Sore Thumbs

LucasArts Announces Lucidity™ release Oct. 7th for Xbox 360

2009-12-12T20:38:00.000-08:00

Addictive Puzzle Platform Game Coming to Xbox LIVE® Arcade for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and PC on
October 7

LucasArts today announced Lucidity, a new game under development from the LucasArts team that re-imagined The Secret of Monkey Island®. Set for release on Xbox LIVE Arcade and PC via digital download on October 7, Lucidity is an addictive puzzle platformer set in the surreal dreamscapes of a little girl named Sofi.

In Lucidity, players take a trip into the imagination of Sofi, a young girl who is filled with a persistent desire to explore new worlds and overcome all obstacles in her way. In this challenging puzzle platform game, players are tasked with keeping Sofi safe as she drifts deeper into the strange new world of her dreams. Through quick reaction and placement of randomly generated puzzle pieces, players must create a path through beautifully detailed dreamscapes to keep Sofi in perpetual motion and deliver her to safety.

"Lucidity comes from our effort at LucasArts to form several small internal development teams and give them the creative freedom to make games that surprise, amaze and inspire," said LucasArts President Darrell Rodriguez. "The re-imagining of The Secret of Monkey Island and the development of the all-new Lucidity are just the beginning of this effort."

More information about Lucidity can be found at LucasArts' newly launched blog, The Workshop, at http://www.LucasArtsWorkshop.com/. The Workshop at LucasArts has been created to share the latest news about the company's digital distribution initiatives.

LucasArts Announces Star Wars®: The Force Unleashed™ II

2009-12-12T20:34:00.000-08:00

The Star Wars® Saga continues in 2010 with Star Wars: The Force Unleashed II, a sequel to the blockbuster videogame developed by LucasArts.

Released in 2008, Star Wars: The Force Unleashed remains the fastest-selling Star Wars game ever, with sales of nearly seven million units worldwide. The action game garnered numerous accolades including the WGA Award for outstanding achievement in writing for videogames.

With Star Wars: The Force Unleashed II, the epic story continues as players once again assume the role of the devastatingly powerful Starkiller - Darth Vader's secret apprentice set during the largely unexplored era between Star Wars: Episode III Revenge of the Sith and Star Wars: Episode IV A New Hope.

"Executive Producer Haden Blackman and his team have been able to build on the core foundation of the award-winning original and create a powerful combination of engrossing story-telling and intense action. The Force Unleashed II gives fans an opportunity to wreak havoc on an even greater scale in the Star Wars universe," said LucasArts' President Darrell Rodriguez.

More information about the game can be found at the official website, www.unleashed2010.com, which will continue to release details throughout the year. LucasArts and the LucasArts logo are registered trademarks of Lucasfilm Ltd. © 2009 Lucasfilm.

Video: Lego Harry Potter: Years 1-4

2009-12-12T11:08:00.000-08:00

See video below:

Top iPhone games of 2009

2009-12-11T19:39:00.000-08:00

Levi Buchanan of IGN.com just released a list of the top iPhone games of 2009. Zen Bound tops his list:

"The iPhone is at its best when hosting a game that you absolutely would not find anywhere else – a game like Zen Bound. This experimental puzzle game is a total chill experience. You have a length of string to wrap around ornate wooden figurines. As you wrap it, the string releases paint. You must cover as much of the ornament as possible with the least amount of string, but unlike most puzzlers, there is no pressure here. Take your time. Try different wraps. Check out the figurine. Enjoy the music (which is awesome). Even nearly a year after its release, Secret Exit's puzzler still one of the best iPhone games yet."

See the full list of the top iPhone games of 2009 by clicking here.

24kt Gold Sony PS3 - a measly $5K

2009-12-11T19:27:00.000-08:00

Computer Choppers just unveiled a 24kt Gold Playstation 3 Slim. Pricing starts at $4,999 USD. All new consoles come with two matching controllers, your choice of a plated or anodized PS3 logo, and a one year full coverage warranty

A jeweled limited edition model with a lifetime warranty will be availaible in the coming weeks. Build time for a custom plated console is only 10-12 days. If you're looking for a unique gift for the holidays, this is it. Uh, sure - I'll take two please.

WSJ: Secrets of the Making of a New Super Mario Bros. Wii

2009-12-11T17:20:00.000-08:00

In an interview, Bill Trinen, a senior manager of product marketing at Nintendo of America, spoke to The Wall Street Journal about the latest game

The Wall Street Journal: What did Nintendo want to accomplish with “New Super Mario Bros. Wii”

Mr. Trinen: Anytime a new Mario game comes out, it really can’t be a rehash of what it’s done before. It has to bring something new to the table. The original Super Mario game on the Nintendo Entertainment System, for example, introduced side-scrolling screens that connected together. Before that, games were mostly single-screen and didn’t pan or move at all. In Super Mario Galaxy, Mario went into space and introduced the idea of running around on spherical worlds and playing with gravity.

This time around, the developers wanted to make a Mario game that was welcoming to everyone in the house and everyone who is interacting with the console. In most households, the Wii is connected to the living room, rather than a television in someone’s bedroom. They thought it was particularly important to realize a multiplayer experience. They have wanted to make a simultaneous multiplayer Super Mario Bros game from the beginning (previous Mario console games were two-player, in which players took turns and competed to finish the game first).

Click here to read the rest of the interview at the Wall Street Journal Speakeasy blog.

Videogame Sales Off Again Last Month

2009-12-11T11:41:00.000-08:00

From the Wall Street Journal 'Digits' blog:

"Monthly sales for the industry have been down since March, except for a slight uptick in September. Results would have been even weaker in November were it not for Activision Blizzard Inc.’s “Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2” shooter game, which had the best first-month sales ever, selling more than all of the other games in NPD’s top ten list combined."

Read the full article HERE

NINTENDO OFFERS ULTIMATE VALUE AND VARIETY FOR LAST-MINUTE SHOPPERS

2009-12-11T07:46:00.000-08:00

As time runs short for holiday shopping, consumers on any budget can count on Nintendo's winning lineup of game systems and software for exceptional, affordable gifts to satisfy everyone on their lists. Whether they're rushing to buy for faraway loved ones or gearing up for a big gathering at home, the Wii™ home console and hand-held Nintendo DS™ and Nintendo DSi™ systems put inclusive, value-minded fun within easy reach.
No Downtime? Just Download
Busy holiday consumers don't always have time to comb the malls. By using their Wii or Nintendo DSi systems to visit the Wii Shop Channel or Nintendo DSi Shop, last-minute shoppers have a simple, convenient way to download new and classic games for as little as 500 Wii™ Points or 200 Nintendo DSi Points™. They'll also find free content like the fun Flipnote Studio application and Facebook integration for Nintendo DSi, and the useful Internet Channel for Wii. A Nintendo Points Card™, which makes a great stocking stuffer at a suggested retail price of $19.99, gives loved ones 2,000 Nintendo Points that they can redeem for great games of their own choosing on Wii or Nintendo DSi. They can even download demos of select WiiWare™ titles for zero Wii Points to help decide which ones they like best.

One Game Fits All
Nintendo offers fun, inclusive games that entire families can enjoy together. At a suggested retail price of $49.99, New Super Mario Bros.™ Wii lets as many as four players take part in fast-paced Mario-themed action at the same time, while The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks for Nintendo DS and Nintendo DSi packs endless hours of adventure for players young and old at a suggested retail price of $34.99. Wii Sports Resort™ includes 12 resort-themed activities to make everyone's spirits bright, offered at a suggested retail price of $49.99 and packaged with the Wii MotionPlus™ accessory, which brings enhanced precision to games that have been designed for it.

A New Color for a New Year
For the first time, U.S. consumers can purchase black versions of the Wii system's signature controllers. The black Wii Remote™ controller comes bundled with a matching Wii MotionPlus™ accessory at a suggested retail price of $49.99, while the black Nunchuk™ controller is available separately at a suggested retail price of $19.99. These sharp, affordable add-ons make terrific stocking stuffers for style-conscious Wii fans.

Moving Fitness Forward
Nintendo's Wii Fit™ Plus delivers an irresistible mix of fitness and fun for people of any age or background with a wealth of new activities along with the original Wii Fit lineup. For the millions of Americans who already own a Wii Balance Board™ accessory, the standalone Wii Fit Plus disc represents a superb value at a suggested retail price of $19.99. Wii Fit Plus with the Wii Balance Board is also available for a suggested retail price of $99.99.

Approach the Holidays with Style
The new Style Savvy™ game for the Nintendo DS and Nintendo DSi systems lets players assume the role of a woman who runs a stylish clothing boutique. As customers visit your store, you have to pick out clothes that make them look good. Style Savvy makes a great stocking stuffer for the fashionista on your shopping list and sells at a suggested retail price of $29.99.

For more information about Nintendo, please visit www.nintendo.com.

Great Xbox LIVE Marketplace Deals in December

2009-12-10T14:17:00.000-08:00

If the weather outside is frightful (or blistering hot in the Southern Hemisphere), take a break indoors and check out the endless entertainment Xbox LIVE® offers you and your family this December.

Fight the urge to sneak a peek at your presents from the family and let Xbox LIVE Marketplace fill your December with holiday surprises. Starting December 18 through December 31, enjoy limited time, one-day discounts on select Xbox LIVE Marketplace content every day – games, movies, blockbuster game add-ons, holiday themes, you name it! Available to all Xbox LIVE Gold and Silver members, everyone can celebrate the countdown to the New Year with a special gift from Xbox LIVE! Be sure to check the console dashboard daily for the latest info.

A Tacky Holiday Sweater for your Avatar
On December 10, get your Avatar in the holiday spirit with specialty items including an ugly holiday sweater and even a free holiday gift for your Avatar to unwrap! And make sure they’re dressed to impress with signature tokidoki gear too, including an assortment of trademark tees and a pair of tokidoki-themed rain boots. Wishes really do come true during the holidays! Dress as a pretty Disney princess or a classic villain when Disney Classics (Disney) releases on Avatar Marketplace December 24.

Here Comes Santa Claus with Deals of the Week
Deal of the Week continuously delivers more fun to Xbox LIVE Gold Members for less points, so take advantage of these supreme deals each week in December.

Week of December 7
Fallout® 3: Operation Anchorage game add-on (Bethesda)
Japan: 560 Microsoft Points, rated M for Mature by the ESRB.

Week of December 14
Lips: Coldplay Track Pack (Microsoft Game Studios)
Worldwide except Japan and India: 240 Microsoft Points, rated E for Everyone by the ESRB.

Pinball FX (ZEN Studios)
Japan: 400 Microsoft Points, rated E for Everyone by the ESRB.

Week of December 21
Shadow Complex™ (Epic/Chair Entertainment)
Worldwide: From the producers of Gears of War comes Shadow Complex, a modern and masterful side-scrolling shooter. Winner of nine “Best of E3” awards, Shadow Complex combines the quality and depth of a retail title with the accessibility you love, available exclusively on Xbox LIVE Arcade. From December 21 through December 27, get Shadow Complex for 800 Microsoft Points, a 33% savings. Shadow Complex is rated T for Teen by the ESRB.

Week of December 28
The Maw (Twisted Pixel)
Worldwide: 400 Microsoft Points, rated E for Everyone by the ESRB.

Make your Holidays Bright with Xbox LIVE Arcade!
Xbox LIVE Arcade delivers quality downloadable games at the best value to light up your holidays.

December 16
Alien Breed Evolution (Episode 1) (Team 17)
Worldwide: The game features incredible fidelity and attention to detail throughout, awesome audio effects, and an engaging single-player narrative. The pulsating story takes the game's hero through an intense ride through a stricken craft, onto a mysterious, ageing hulk ship and beyond. In addition to the explosive single-player story, there’s a relentless, action packed, two-player cooperative battle mode for online and offline local action with a number of difficulty modes to challenge all skills. Available for 800 Microsoft Points, Alien Breed Evolution (Episode 1) is rated T for Teen by the ESRB.

December 23
Trials HD BIG PACK! (Redlynx)
Worldwide : Fans of Trials HD, one of this summer’s hottest downloadable games, can get ready for more fun and insane challenges with the add-on, Trials HD BIG PACK! Rev your engines with 35 new racing and skill tracks, over 50 new crazy physics objects, tournaments, new achievements worth 50 extra Gamerscore, and more. Trials HD BIG PACK! releases December 23 on Xbox LIVE Arcade at 400 points and is rated T for Teen by the ESRB. Fasten your helmet and prepare for serious bruises!

Chestnuts, Cocoa, Snowflakes, and Games on Demand
Games on Demand titles are available for quick, convenient download 24x7. Check out some of this month’s top titles to add to your collection.

December 1
Crackdown (Microsoft Game Studios)
Worldwide except Germany, Japan and Korea: Prepare for the upcoming release of Crackdown 2 by revisiting the award-winning predecessor, Crackdown. Take on the role of judge, jury, and executioner as you restore peace by any means necessary in Pacific City, a crime-ridden urban center primed to explode and ready for you to explore. Enter the vast and fully explorable world as you clean up the streets the only way you know how. Your way.

December 8
Disney Bolt (Disney)
North America and Europe: Join Bolt and Penny as they travel the globe on a dangerous mission to save Penny's Dad from the evil Dr. Calico.

December 15
Viva Piñata®: Party Animals (Microsoft Game Studios)
Worldwide except Japan: Compete in a variety of zany battles and races in the social party game Viva Piñata: Party Animals. Control the fame, fortune, and destiny of all your favorite characters from Viva Piñata: Fergy Fudgehog, Paulie Pretztail, Franklin Fizzlybear, and Hudson Horstachio. It's party time!

December 22
Lost Planet™:Extreme Condition Colonies Edition (Capcom Entertainment, Inc.)
Worldwide except Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and India: Lost Planet™: Extreme Condition Colonies Edition provides explosive action for both offline and online players, and allows cross-platform play between Xbox 360® and PC, all in time to prepare for the anticipated release of the upcoming Lost Planet sequel.

Devil May Cry® 4 (CAPCOM Co., Ltd.)
Worldwide except Japan: Devil May Cry 4 immerses you in a gothic supernatural world, where a new protagonist clashes with a familiar hero. As the new leading man Nero, unleash incredible attacks and non-stop combos using the unique new gameplay mechanic of his powerful "Devil Bringer" arm.

December 29
Gears of War® (Microsoft Game Studios)
Worldwide except Japan and Germany: Gears of War fans, check out the original title that started it all! Developed by Epic Games, Gears of War thrusts gamers into a deep and harrowing story of humankind’s epic battle for survival against the Locust Horde, a nightmarish race of creatures that surface from the bowels of the planet. Players take on the role of Marcus Fenix, a disgraced war hero who seeks personal redemption as he leads his fire team against the Locust onslaught. Gears of War unites breathtaking visuals with classic, emotional storytelling and a revolutionary tactical combat system, engrossing the gamer in a horrifying epic story of war and survival.

* Xbox LIVE Gold membership required for multiplayer

Xbox Live Fact Sheet - November 2009

2009-12-10T14:04:00.000-08:00

Xbox LIVE offers the most comprehensive gaming and entertainment service connected to your TV. Whether it’s transforming your TV into a virtual theater, your couch into a race car or your living room into a rock arena, Xbox LIVE puts a world of instant fun, friends and entertainment at your fingertips.

WATCH … your favorite films, shows and now even access news from the largest global TV and movie library on any console. Access thousands of movies and TV shows via Netflix, Zune video or even “News and More” to create a true movie theater experience in the comfort of your home, all on your Xbox 360 console through Xbox LIVE.

• Zune video. Zune comes to Xbox LIVE to deliver instant-on 1080p HD streaming video on your Xbox 360 console. It delivers the selection of a video megastore, in the highest possible clarity1 and with the convenience of cable. Watch the movies and TV shows you want, when you want them, with instant-on 1080p video and 5.1 surround sound. You can even find your favorite film at the touch of a button using new, enhanced search functions.

• Netflix. Watch movies instantly streamed from Netflix, and share in a party with up to seven friends in supported movies with Netflix on Xbox LIVE. Recommend your favorite shows, update your instant Queue, see the avatars of you and your friends right on your TV, and share movie party night — all on Xbox LIVE.

• “News and More.” A new section of the Inside Xbox channel, “News and More” transforms Xbox LIVE into a full-fledged media portal. With a regularly updated stream of content from MSNBC, The Weather Channel, MSN Horoscopes, The New Yorker and Dilbert, “News and More” brings the latest in current events, arts and entertainment right to your fingertips. Whether it’s the latest headlines, horoscopes or daily cartoons, the information you want is now a seamless part of your favorite entertainment destination — Xbox 360.

• BSkyB. The Xbox LIVE commitment to providing the best global entertainment gains momentum with its newest partner, Sky. Now, for the first time on Xbox LIVE, watch live or on-demand TV from Sky, including Sky Sports, right on your Xbox 360. Never miss a moment of your favorite live TV shows, sports, movies and family-friendly entertainment across the U.K. and Ireland on Xbox LIVE. You can even share your favorites with up to seven friends in an Xbox LIVE Party (with supported content).

• Canal+ Group. Canal+ Group on Xbox LIVE offers Xbox LIVE members in France a variety of entertainment options from CANALPLAY, CANAL+ à la demande and Foot+ straight through their Xbox 360. Never miss a moment of your favorite sports action, TV shows, movies and family-friendly content from Canal+ on Xbox LIVE.

In addition to the eight countries already enjoying movies and TV shows on Xbox LIVE through regional partnerships with studios, networks and providers such as Sky and Canal+ Group, starting this fall 10 new countries will have access to Xbox LIVE Video Marketplace. Xbox LIVE will deliver the convenience of instant-on 1080p video to an expanded global consumer base including Denmark, Finland, Norway, Sweden, Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Austria, Australia and New Zealand.

LISTEN … and perform music in all new ways. Now, find new and engaging ways to connect to a music catalog of millions of songs in more ways than ever, on the new Xbox LIVE Music Channel. Whether it’s personalized recommendations from Last.fm or even putting on your own concert with “Lips,” Xbox LIVE amplifies the options for enjoying music at home.

• Last.fm. Combining streaming music with the entertainment center in the living room, Xbox LIVE and Last.fm crank up the ways for you to enjoy entertainment experiences. For the first time, you have access to high-quality streaming music on your Xbox 360 console.

• Music games stores. Coming soon… Download the newest hits or the most memorable classics with new, dedicated stores for “Rock Band” (MTV Games), “Guitar Hero” (Activision) and “Lips” (Microsoft Game Studios). These stores will let you explore and sample new songs and Game Add-ons for these popular music game franchises in one place, without having to launch the full games.

PLAY … the best selection of games in all-new ways. With exciting online competitions such as “1 vs 100,” top-performing Xbox LIVE Arcade games such as “Shadow Complex,” “Splosion Man” and “Trials HD,” and full versions of Xbox 360 games available digitally with Games on Demand, Xbox LIVE brings a whole new wave of fun straight to your living room.

• “1 vs 100.” “1 vs 100” on Xbox LIVE kicks off a new genre of global social entertainment that brings the excitement, anticipation and production value of game shows to Xbox LIVE. Play along with friends or match up with opponents of the same skill level as you compete live with thousands of other contestants for real prizes. Based on the TV show of the same name, “1 vs 100 Live” is an event where you may play against thousands of other Xbox LIVE Gold members as “the One,” the 100 known as “the Mob,” or “the Crowd.” Prepare to be entertained as the live studio host provides spontaneous and comedic commentary throughout the show, and answer fresh trivia created by a team of experts.

• Xbox LIVE Arcade. Xbox LIVE Arcade is your one-stop-shop for fresh and fun easy-play games. Now you can test your skills among some of the best online players with top-selling Xbox LIVE Arcade hits such as “Shadow Complex,” “Trials HD” and “Splosion Man.”

• Games on Demand. Convenient and always available, Games on Demand provides 24x7 access to a growing catalog of full Xbox 360 games from the top publishers. Get the games you want, straight to your Xbox 360 from the comfort of your living room. A great selection of Xbox 360 favorites are available to download to your hard drive and enjoy at the push of a button.

SHARE … the fun with your friends on the biggest social network on the planet. From a groundbreaking alliance with Facebook, to integration with Twitter, and movie and photo parties with friends, Xbox LIVE gives you the power to share your entertainment experiences with your friends almost anywhere.

• Facebook. Facebook and Xbox LIVE join forces to connect the largest social network on the planet with the largest entertainment and gaming network on TV. Share and interact with friends from around the globe, post real-time status updates, and check out photo galleries on the big screen from the comfort of your living room with Facebook on Xbox LIVE. In the future, with Facebook Connect on Xbox LIVE you can share your favorite gaming moments (in supported games) with all your friends. Starting with an upcoming version of EA Sports™ golf franchise “Tiger Woods PGA TOUR®” for Xbox 360, you’ll soon be able to take bragging rights to a completely new level.

• Twitter. Stay connected with Twitter on Xbox LIVE. Now you can be in the know and keep your social circle up to date by reading, posting and replying to tweets right from your Xbox 360. Follow friends and celebrities, learn about the news at it happens, and let people know what you’re up to all on Xbox LIVE.

• Xbox LIVE Parties. Connect to share movies, music, photos and gaming experiences with your friends on the same sofa or from a different coast; laugh, chat, send messages and make new friends. Xbox LIVE lets you have more fun, in more ways, all from one place.

• Xbox LIVE Avatar Marketplace. Truly reflect yourself and your sense of style with the new Xbox LIVE Avatar Marketplace. Download premium items, including branded apparel from your favorite fashion labels and Xbox 360 games. You can also purchase interactive avatar props to fit your unique personality, and even earn cool new items just by playing your favorite games.

GOLD … gives you all this and more, including full, unlimited access to the new and exciting features such as Facebook, Twitter, “1 vs 100,” Netflix, Last.fm, Sky (in U.K. and Ireland), Canal+ Group (in France), Xbox LIVE Parties and photo sharing, exclusive weekly deals on movies, games, and entertainment, and early access to game demos. The best multiplayer gaming network, access to the biggest names in entertainment, and all-new ways to watch, listen to and play your favorites with friends from around the world: an Xbox LIVE Gold Membership is hands-down the best value in home entertainment.

The information contained in this fact sheet relates to pre-release products that may be substantially modified before first commercial release. Accordingly, the information may not accurately describe or reflect the products when first commercially released. This fact sheet is provided for informational purposes only, and Microsoft makes no warranties, express or implied, with regard to the fact sheet or the information contained in it.

SENIORS AND KIDS GO HEAD-TO-HEAD WITH SOME NEW SUPER MARIO BROS. WII FUN

2009-12-08T09:37:00.000-08:00

REDMOND, Wash., Dec. 8, 2009 – Before the launch of the Wii™ system, most seniors probably never gave video games a second thought. But then came the game Wii Sports™ and, with it, senior bowling leagues and the emergence of video games as a regular pastime for seniors nationwide. This month Nintendo pays tribute to these new players with gaming events at Erickson and Leisure Care communities across the country for residents and their family members, with a focus on New Super Mario Bros.™ Wii.

Between Dec. 4 and Dec. 20, Nintendo representatives will visit 10 communities to demonstrate New Super Mario Bros. Wii to hundreds of senior residents and their families, and encourage every generation to sample the game's unique blend of imaginative, multiplayer fun. Because players can play through the game either cooperatively or competitively, participants can expect to see kids helping their grandparents overcome difficult obstacles – or perhaps throwing them down a bottomless pit. An additional 42 communities will receive a Nintendo gift package to incorporate video games into their regular activities. All 52 communities will receive:

* A Wii system
* New Super Mario Bros. Wii
* Three additional Wii Remote™ controllers and three additional Nunchuk™ controllers
* A copy of Wii Sports Resort™ and three additional Wii MotionPlus™ accessories
* Wii Fit™ Plus with a Wii Balance Board™ accessory
* Mario Kart™ Wii and three additional Wii Wheel™ accessories

"Nintendo has led the way in expanding the audience for video games," said Cammie Dunaway, Nintendo of America's executive vice president of Sales & Marketing. "By giving seniors and their family members a hands-on introduction to New Super Mario Bros. Wii, we're extending our commitment to making the best video game experiences accessible to every generation."

New Super Mario Bros. Wii lets players take control of the iconic Mario™, his brother Luigi™ or one of two playable Toad™ characters. On a mission to rescue Princess Peach™ from the devious Bowser™, they must run, jump, bounce and battle their way through a series of wild obstacles, collecting coins and evading enemies along the way. In addition to a simultaneous multiplayer mode, the game includes built-in guides that provide helpful tips on how to overcome challenging obstacles. Since premiering in 1986, the Super Mario Bros. game series has become one of the most popular video game series of all time, selling more than 222 million games worldwide to date.

Highlighting the Wii system's inclusive game library and easy-to-use wireless controls, Nintendo has conducted pioneering outreach in senior communities across the nation since launching the system in 2006. Games such as Wii Sports have been embraced by seniors, who have set up Wii Sports bowling leagues and made video games a regular addition to both their social and physical activity calendars.

See below for scheduled dates and locations (subject to change):

Leisure Care communities

Dec. 4: Fairwinds – Ivey Ranch in Oceanside, Calif.
Dec. 12: La Siena in Phoenix
Dec. 13: Fairwinds – Brittany Park in Woodinville, Wash.
Dec. 19: Harvard Square in Denver
Dec. 20: Heritage Estates in Livermore, Calif.

Erickson communities

Dec. 5: Eagle's Trace in Houston
Dec. 12: Greenspring in Springfield, Va.
Dec. 12: Ann's Choice in Warminster, Pa.
Dec. 13: Sedgebrook in Lincolnshire, Ill.
Dec. 19: Brooksby Village in Peabody, Mass.

Remember that Wii features parental controls that let adults manage the content their children can access. For more information about this and other Wii features, visit Wii.com.

For more information about New Super Mario Bros. Wii, visit http://www.mariobroswii.com/.

NINTENDO DOWNLOAD: CLASSIC RAYMAN AND STREET FIGHTER GAMES LEAD A LUMINOUS DECEMBER LINEUP

2009-12-07T09:05:00.000-08:00

NINTENDO DOWNLOAD: CLASSIC RAYMAN AND STREET FIGHTER GAMES LEAD A LUMINOUS DECEMBER LINEUP

Dec. 7, 2009
Maybe the holiday season has you grinning from ear to ear, or maybe you're already stressing out about choosing the right gifts for everyone on your list. Either way, you'd be wise to take a look at this week's new downloadable games from Nintendo. The latest Nintendo DSiWare™ releases include the original Rayman® - perfect for prolonging your jubilant mood or providing a respite from the season's hustle and bustle. Speaking of stress relief, this week's new WiiWare™ games include Stop Stress: A Day of Fury, which offers a truly unusual way for players to unwind. And Virtual Console™ fans now have two more classic titles to liven up their game libraries: the Super NES™ gem Street Fighter® Alpha 2 and the legendary SEGA arcade title Shinobi. All told, you'll find 11 new games added to the already stellar selection on the Wii™ Shop Channel and Nintendo DSi™ Shop. Whether you're browsing for yourself or a loved one, don't forget that you can also use the Wii Shop Channel to download five free game demos and try before you buy.

Nintendo DSiWare

Rayman
Publisher: Ubisoft
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 800 Nintendo DSi Points™
Description: The legendary first Rayman adventure is now available from the Nintendo DSiWare service. Play as Rayman and try to save his amazing world from the evil Mr. Dark. Discover a charming universe with colorful landscapes and meet funny characters who'll help Rayman through his quest. Experiment with his abilities as you punch, hang or fly in the air and choose between two difficulty levels. Take advantage of new features in the Nintendo DSi version, such as the Nintendo DSi Camera, map selection on the touch screen and the ability to play against time to win bonuses.

Ball Fighter
Publisher: Teyon
Players: 1-2
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 500 Nintendo DSi Points
Description: Ball Fighter is a puzzle game in which you take aim and blast groups of dropping spheres to create matches and clear the board. You can make chains to earn additional points or to make the game more difficult for an opponent. When you destroy spheres in a multiplayer mode, they will be added to the opponent's board, making his or her task more difficult. You can find special bonuses like a Brush, a Rocket Launcher or a Bomb, which can be used to destroy spheres or to paint a line of them with the same color. You'll find a variety of single-player modes, including Arcade, Survival, Brain Breaker and Player vs CPU, plus the unique multiplayer mode, all playable on one Nintendo DSi system.

Pop Island
Publisher: odenis studio
Players: 1-8
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone) - Comic Mischief
Price: 500 Nintendo DSi Points
Description: Discover a joyful universe where playing is always a pleasure with Pop Island. Colorful and fun, Pop Island is an action-packed capture-the-flag game. Pick a team to join, then run, jump and spin your way around the island in an attempt to collect the priceless flags hidden throughout it. Become a surfing penguin, a flying fish or a waterskiing crocodile as you go all out for victory, unlocking 12 more joyful animals as you rack up points across eight different planets. You might even end up competing as a skateboarding mammoth. Playing alone is plenty of fun, but the madcap action reaches a new level when your friends get involved. By sharing the demo of the game via DS Download Play, up to seven more people with their own Nintendo DSi systems can use a local wireless connection to join you for some head-to-head or cooperative action. With plenty of power-ups, you'll need to concentrate on capturing more than just the rival team's flag to claim victory.

ARMY DEFENDER
Publisher: MINDSCAPE
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E10+ (Everyone 10 and Older) - Cartoon Violence
Price: 200 Nintendo DSi Points
Description: Army Defender is an action shooter in which players must defend their base against enemy attacks by controlling a machine gun tower designed to eradicate enemy waves. As the player levels up, the enemy becomes more and more numerous and well-equipped. Attackers include soldiers, tanks, paratroopers, helicopters, jet fighters, bombers and elite commandos. Depending on the enemy type (red or green), players must switch between ammunition colors. The machine gun tower will fire where the player taps the touch screen. Power-ups are made available on a regular basis when a super bomber delivers them onto the base. When a power-up is retrieved, players will be able to upgrade their tower for a limited amount of time. Upgrades include flamethrowers, rocket launchers or concussion grenades that will help contain enemy progression.

myNotebook: Red™
Publisher: Nnooo
Players: 1
Price: 200 Nintendo DSi Points
Description: myNotebook allows you to take notes wherever you are. Just pop open your Nintendo DSi system and jot down your thoughts. Make a list and cross it off, or even play your favorite pen-and-paper games (games not included). You can even personalize your notebook by drawing on the cover and changing the paper type with 18 unlockable squared and lined paper styles. Use the pen or pencil to make your notes or doodles, then erase the bits you don't like. With five ink colors, you'll always be able to make your notes and doodles look stylish.

WiiWare™

My Dolphin
Publisher: T&S Ltd.
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 500 Wii Points™
Description: You are a dolphin trainer. Use the magical stick (Wii Remote™ and Nunchuk™ controllers) to perform in lifelike dolphin shows. Teach your dolphin tricks and have fun watching your dolphin swim and play elegantly with different scenes, music and angles. This game lets you train your dolphin, compete in dolphin shows and watch your dolphin swim freely. Using Nintendo® Wi-Fi Connection Pay & Play, you can become friends with other dolphins that have different colors and personalities. You can also buy new toys such as rings and balls for your dolphin to play with.

MAGNETIS™
Publisher: YULLABY
Players: 1-4
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 500 Wii Points
Description: MAGNETIS is all about attraction. Connect the magnets to create electric explosions. Solving this frantic puzzle will require quick thinking and foresight. Anticipate connections in order to generate massive chain reactions to win the highest number of points. To get rid of blocks and score points, you must create lines by connecting left and right magnets of the same color by using conductor blocks. The longer the line, the more points you'll get. Team up with as many as three friends in cooperative mode or play against them in battle mode and compete for the highest score.

Stop Stress: A Day of Fury
Publisher: Abylight
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: T (Teen) - Animated Blood, Mild Suggestive Themes, Violence
Price: 800 Wii Points
Description: Jack's dreams have become a nightmare, and only you can help him to get out. Climb into the skin of the most stressed-out man in the world, grab the baseball bat and prepare to let off more steam than ever before. Destroy everything around you, beat a path through traffic or at the office, and face off against incredible hallucinations. How far will a day of fury take you?

Flowerworks®
Publisher: Nocturnal Entertainment
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 1,000 Wii Points
Description: While our heroine Follie is traveling to meet her auntie with a cargo of mystical Flowerworks seeds, her ship is pulled off course and crash-lands in a particularly dull area of the planet Elilia. Explore with Follie and help her recover her seeds to transform the world from drab to fab. You'll encounter strange inhabitants, some of whom will help Follie in her quest. Others, such as naughty garden gnomes, will hinder it. Flowerworks is a single-player adventure which combines blooming flowers, colorful fireworks, exploration and a whole lot of fun. The game will have the whole family immersed in no time, but be warned: Becoming a Flowerworks master is not for the faint of heart. Flowerworks includes Adventure, FreePlay and Tutorial game modes, with three difficulty settings in a 20-hour adventure.

Virtual Console

Street Fighter Alpha 2
Original platform: Super NES
Publisher: Capcom USA
Players: 1-2
ESRB Rating: T (Teen) - Animated Violence
Price: 800 Wii Points
Description: Street Fighter Alpha 2 explodes with lightning-fast game play and amazing innovations. Quick Move Reversals, Alpha Counters and the incredible Custom Combo System create a new standard for all games to fight by. Push your talents to the limit as you discover new hidden moves and reversals for every character. Neutralize opponents' attacks with high and low Alpha Counters and execute incredible Custom Combos to create your own rapid-fire assaults. All your favorite warriors are back for more. Previously hidden characters Dan, Akuma and Bison are joined by five new fighters: Rolento, Gen and Sakura, plus classic favorites Dhalsim and Zangief.

Shinobi™
Publisher: SEGA
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E10+ (Everyone 10 and Older) - Mild Violence
Price: 800 Wii Points
Description: Here's a bit of helpful advice to all you criminal organizations out there: If you're going to hatch an elaborate plot that involves kidnapping children, don't kidnap children who have ninjas for parents. That was the big mistake that a group called Zeed made when it went after the offspring of the Oboro clan. Now Joe Musashi is on the hunt to rescue the young hostages and take out Zeed's leaders, the Ring of Five. As you scour each stage, leave no children behind - Joe can't proceed to the next level without freeing them all. With an unlimited supply of shuriken, his sharpened katana and his deadly fists and feet, Joe will show Zeed why you don't mess with family.

Nintendo adds new titles to the Nintendo DSi Shop and the Wii Shop Channel at 9 a.m. Pacific time on Mondays. Users with broadband Internet access can redeem Wii Points or Nintendo DSi Points to download the games. Wii Points can be purchased in the Wii Shop Channel. Nintendo DSi Points can be purchased in the Nintendo DSi Shop. A Nintendo Points Card™ can be purchased at retail locations. All points from one Nintendo Points Card must be redeemed in either the Nintendo DSi Shop or the Wii Shop Channel. They are not transferable and cannot be divided between the two systems.

Remember that both Wii and Nintendo DSi feature parental controls that let adults manage the content their children can access. For more information about this and other features, visit Wii.com or NintendoDSi.com.

NINTENDO DELIVERS A HAND-HELD EPIC WITH THE LEGEND OF ZELDA: SPIRIT TRACKS

2009-12-07T09:04:00.000-08:00

REDMOND, Wash., Dec. 7, 2009 - One of the year's biggest adventures is fired up and heading down the tracks. Today's launch of The Legend of Zelda™: Spirit Tracks for the hand-held Nintendo DS™ and Nintendo DSi™ video game systems marks a fun new chapter in the historic franchise. For the first time, heroic Link™ teams with Princess Zelda™, who accompanies him on an original quest to save Hyrule from ruin. This unforgettable saga has Link navigating perilous dungeons and commanding a customizable train. The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks features challenging puzzles, wide-ranging exploration and a deep storyline.

The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks builds upon the dynamic touch-screen control interface established in 2007's The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass, making it easier for players to perform advanced maneuvers and guide Link through an engaging series of adventures and challenges. An active participant throughout the entire game, Princess Zelda can take control of powerful Phantom characters to help Link make his way through obstacle-filled dungeons. New items include the Whirlwind and the Spirit Flute, which allows players to perform music that has magical effects on objects and events in the game by blowing into the built-in microphone of the Nintendo DS or Nintendo DSi.

While controlling Link's customizable train, players can take on special missions in which he transports people and valuable cargo across the game world. The train offers players the opportunity to explore the world of Hyrule, taking more challenging routes to reach new areas as they acquire new parts and equipment.

The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks includes a new head-to-head multiplayer mode that lets up to four players compete via a local wireless connection with one game card. In this mode, players explore six unique areas in search of valuable Force Gems. Traversing these areas and attempting to possess the most Force Gems at the end of each session, players must also avoid patrolling Phantoms, while setting off traps and using hidden abilities to foil their opponents.

"During the holidays, people are striving to find entertainment options that offer hours of fun, and The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks delivers," said Cammie Dunaway, Nintendo of America's executive vice president of Sales & Marketing. "For more than 20 years, audiences have been captivated by the storyline and sense of exploration offered by these beloved games. The plot twists and seamless controls of this latest installment will engage existing fans of The Legend of Zelda series while introducing new players to the series' magic."

The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks is the 15th game in this internationally renowned series. Since its inception in 1986, more than 59 million games in The Legend of Zelda series have been sold worldwide.

For more information about The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks, visit www.zelda.com/spirittracks.

Third Halo Legends Preview Episode on Xbox LIVE

2009-12-04T13:19:00.000-08:00

The Halo universe's most iconic figure embarks on a harrowing mission in the third preview episode of the epic anime saga, Halo Legends. Created by Casio Entertainment and visionary director Shinji Aramaki, part one of "The Package" will be available exclusively on Halo Waypoint for only 24 hours this Saturday, December 5.

The story follows Master Chief and four specially selected Spartans as they launch out on a stealth cruiser into the heart of a massive Covenant fleet in a bid to recover a valuable intelligence asset.

Don't miss this exclusive preview on Saturday only.

Spartan Battles
This episode will prove that Spartans are just as adept fighting in zero-G and piloting never-before-seen light attack vehicles as they are on the ground. Once Master Chief locates the target he and the remaining Spartans blast their way on board, where the action gets hand-to-hand as they fight through an army of Covenant troops in order to recover the most important Human intelligence resource there is.

Preview Schedule
"The Package" will be previewed in two parts, with the conclusion of the story scheduled for Saturday, December 12. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of "The Package" on Saturday, December 19, in which Aramaki and his team recount their work on Halo Legends. A full schedule of upcoming Halo Legends 24-hour exclusive previews is as follows:

Episode	Airing Date (24-hour)
"The Package" Part 1	Dec 5, 2009
"The Package" Part 2	Dec 12, 2009
Making of "The Package"	Dec 19, 2009
"Origins" Part 1	Jan 2, 2010
Making of "Origins"	Jan 9, 2010
Trailers of upcoming episodes	Feb 2, 2010

Produced by 343 Industries and created by a group of renowned anime studios, Halo Legends will be distributed by Warner Home Video on DVD, Blu-Ray and digital formats on February 16, 2010.
For updates on the Halo Legends previews, visit http://halolegends.com. For details about the full anthology, visit http://www.halolegendsdvd.com.

Lips Jukebox and Lips: Party Classics

2009-12-04T13:15:00.000-08:00

Lips: Party Classics

Who needs the lyrics? You know them by heart; everyone knows them by heart … more or less. They are the songs that get us out of our seats and into the moment, they get the party started. Microsoft Game Studios and iNiS will capture the magic of these songs in Lips: Party Classics, the newest title to join the Lips singing sensation exclusive to Xbox 360®. Available worldwide in spring 2010, Lips: Party Classics will let party goers experience their favorite tunes from their beloved karaoke venues right in their own living rooms.

It’s a love shack, bay-bee!

Let the festivities commence with the wide selection of 40 peppy, festive, dramatic, and exhilarating songs included in the game. These are the songs you love to sing even if the singing itself is so bad it’s good – these tunes will unite friends and family with fun and spontaneity. Just a glimpse of the full song list includes favorites such as:

“Love Shack” by The B-52's
“Tubthumping” by Chumbawamba
“I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor
“Rock And Roll All Nite” by KISS
Wannabe” by Spice Girls
“I Think We’re Alone Now” by Tiffany
“Y.M.C.A.” by Village People

Lips Jukebox
Right now, make your Facebook photos sing with the new Lips Jukebox, available free. This easy-to-use online tool puts a pair of singing lips on your photos transforming them into a mini music video starring you and your best friends and family. Choose from classic tracks such as “Barbie Girl” by Aqua or “Love Fool” by The Cardigans.

Lips December Game Add-ons
For those not-so-silent nights, invite your loved ones over and give them the gift of song with “Papa Was A Rollin’ Stone” by The Temptations, “Right Round” by Flo Rida, “Think” by Aretha Franklin, “Blister In The Sun” by Violent Femmes, and more.
Then, while you’re stringing up your garlands, don’t forget to add a variety of great holiday tunes including “White Christmas” by Bing Crosby, “Santa Baby” by Kylie Minogue, and “Hanukkah Blessings” by Barenaked Ladies to your Lips collection that are sure to light up your nights with fun

Lips Songs for Everyone
Following the fall releases of Lips: Number One Hits worldwide, and Lips: Deutsche Partyknaller and Lips: Canta En Español in select regions, the Lips library is as diverse as the imagination, so that everyone can find the perfect songs to perform. These new titles coupled with the original Lips and the extensive library of Lips Game Add-on songs available on Xbox LIVE Marketplace and the in-game Get Music Store, are sure to keep the singing going until dawn.

Avatar and Xbox LIVE features add personal touches to the singing experience with Avatar integration and Avatar Awards allowing singers to perform as their virtual selves in the game. With Lips: Party Classics, players can earn fashionable Avatar Accessories through in-game accomplishments to customize their wardrobe and flaunt their unique style to friends on Xbox LIVE.

Evan Longoria on Cover of MLB 2K10

2009-12-03T06:25:00.000-08:00

2K Sports has announced that Evan Longoria of the Tampa Bay Rays®, a 2009 American League Gold Glove and Silver Slugger Award recipient, will be featured as the cover athlete and spokesman for Major League Baseball® 2K10, the next iteration of the popular Major League Baseball 2K series.
This season, 2K Sports is putting the selection of the cover image in the hands of fans. Online voting is now open, so visit the 2K Cover Contest site, and select from a gallery of different cover art designs featuring Longoria to help determine which one will adorn the cover of the game.

Decisions, decisions. Vote on these and more designs at the 2K Cover Contest site.

There are six possible cover designs being considered, so vote now for your favorite.
“It’s been a milestone year for me, from winning a Gold Glove and the Silver Slugger Award, to now being selected as the cover athlete for Major League Baseball 2K10 – this has been a truly humbling experience,” said Longoria. “Since 2K Sports is letting fans decide on the final box cover art, I’m going to have to rally my Rays teammates to ensure that my favorite takes the lead.”

Vote now for your favorite design!

The third overall pick in the 2006 draft, Longoria made his major league debut in 2008 with the Tampa Bay Rays and was subsequently named American League Rookie of the Year. This past season, the stellar third baseman batted .281, with 33 home runs, 113 RBIs, and 100 runs, and became the first player in Rays franchise history to be recognized as American League Player of the Month. Adding to his growing list of achievements, Longoria closed out the season with a Gold Glove Award for his superior individual fielding performance, along with a Silver Slugger Award presented by Louisville Slugger, given annually to the best offensive player at each position as determined by the coaches and managers of the MLB.
“When it comes to selecting cover athletes for our games, we look for players who are more than just a fancy resume,” said Greg Thomas, senior vice president of sports development for 2K. “With Evan, he is one of the most fun and exciting players in the game, which helps complement the vibe we are striving for with Major League Baseball 2K10.”

Voting is open only until December 8 at 12 Noon ET, with the final box cover for the game being revealed before Friday, December 11.

U.S. LAUNCH OF GLORY OF HERACLES, FIRST GAME IN POPULAR JAPANESE SERIES, SET FOR JAN. 18

2009-12-03T06:17:00.001-08:00

The wonder of ancient Greece comes to life on Jan. 18, when Glory of Heracles™ launches exclusively for the portable Nintendo DS™ and Nintendo DSi™ systems. The game marks the first in the popular Japanese Heracles series to launch in the United States.

The game is inspired by Greek mythology and written by Kazushige Nojima of Final Fantasy fame. The traditional role-playing game features an engrossing story and a robust battle system. Players can roam the countryside as they encounter new characters and gain experience, or they can visit familiar ancient settings like Athens and Sparta.

Although the plot is fictional, many of the people and places in the game are based on familiar Greek mythology. An extensive glossary provides more details about the places and characters that heroic Heracles encounters. Players will be treated to animated cut scenes on the screens of their Nintendo DS or Nintendo DSi systems.

Players can opt to use the stylus or control pad and buttons to control movement in the game, while the touch screen is required to complete optional challenges used to power up spells or skills during battle.

For more information about Glory of Heracles, please visit www.nintendo.com.

Nintendo Wii top selling console of 2009. Sold more than 2.5 systems per second!

2009-12-01T13:33:00.000-08:00

REDMOND, Wash., Nov. 30, 2009 – Nintendo's internal tracking numbers show that the company sold more than 1.5 million Wii™, Nintendo DS™ and Nintendo DSi™ video game systems combined in the United States during Thanksgiving Week. That works out to more than 150 Nintendo systems sold every minute continuously for the week – or more than 2.5 every second.

Nintendo estimates that during the week:

more than 550,000 Wii home consoles sold, demonstrating that consumers nationwide have responded to the new suggested retail price of $199.99.
more than 1 million Nintendo DS and Nintendo DSi portable systems sold. This number surpasses the all-time hand-held hardware sales record set by Game Boy™ Advance during Thanksgiving Week 2002.

"Holiday shoppers are finding value in our products' prices, and through a game-play experience that is unique to Nintendo," said Cammie Dunaway, Nintendo of America's executive vice president of Sales & Marketing.

Note that the internal Nintendo of America numbers referenced in this release represent sales from Sunday, Nov. 22, through Saturday, Nov. 28.

For more information about Nintendo games and systems, visit www.nintendo.com.

About Nintendo: The worldwide pioneer in the creation of interactive entertainment, Nintendo Co., Ltd., of Kyoto, Japan, manufactures and markets hardware and software for its Wii™, Nintendo DS™ and Nintendo DSi™ systems. Since 1983, when it launched the Nintendo Entertainment System™, Nintendo has sold more than 3.2 billion video games and more than 535 million hardware units globally, including the current-generation Wii, Nintendo DS and Nintendo DSi, as well as the Game Boy™, Game Boy Advance, Super NES™, Nintendo 64™ and Nintendo GameCube™ systems. It has also created industry icons that have become well-known, household names such as Mario™, Donkey Kong™, Metroid™, Zelda™ and Pokémon™. A wholly owned subsidiary, Nintendo of America Inc., based in Redmond, Wash., serves as headquarters for Nintendo's operations in the Western Hemisphere. For more information about Nintendo, visit the company's Web site at www.nintendo.com.

RuneScape - one of the top 10 online searches of the year

2009-12-01T11:09:00.000-08:00

According to Yahoo!, RunScape was the 10th most searched term of 2009.

RuneScape first launched in 2001and now has millions of users. The Guiness Book of World Records calls RuneScape "the most popular free MMORPG in the world"