TriplePoint Newsroom

Temple Run 2 Adds New Terrain and Obstacles in Latest Update

Samantha Qualls — Fri, 17 May 2013 16:00:36 +0000

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Over 300 Million Downloads for Temple Run Franchise

RALEIGH, N.C.– May 17, 2013 – Imangi Studios, committed to regularly delivering meaningful new content to fans, today announced an update for the hit-mobile game Temple Run 2. This new update will test Temple Run 2’s millions of daily active players with new roadblocks and tasks, bringing even more challenges to the beloved game. New in the Temple Run 2 update:

A new landscape called The Narrows, introduces a treacherous new terrain to the game
Spinning saw blades that create exciting obstacles to avoid
A crumbling path that keeps players on watch for last minute turns and jumps
New chances to earn free coins and gems, available under the “Free Stuff” menu

With over 300 million downloads between Temple Run and Temple Run 2, the series is one of the biggest franchises in mobile gaming. Since the launch of the original game in 2011, the brand has expanded to include apparel with Komar Kids, digital comics with Ape Entertainment, and card and board games with Spin Master, among other licensing partnerships. Imangi has collaborated twice with Disney to launch Temple Run: Brave and Temple Run: Oz. Both games reached the #1 slot on the App Store. Download Temple Run 2 on iOS or Android. Assets Download screenshots of the new features here. About Imangi Studios Imangi Studios was founded by husband and wife team Keith Shepherd and Natalia Luckyanova in 2008 with the goal of creating small fun games for everyone to enjoy. What started as a dream job for the couple has evolved into a successful business, with Keith and Natalia now working with a team of other talented game creators. In 2011, the studio developed the mega-hit Temple Run, and followed with Temple Run 2 in 2012. The two games have been downloaded over 300 million times. Based in North Carolina, Imangi Studios is a self-funded and fully independent studio. Official Website | Facebook | @TempleRun

Media Contact TriplePoint for Imangi Studios imangi@triplepointpr.com 212-730-9744

Evilot Brings Anti-hero Puzzle Defense to iPad

Zach Fuller — Wed, 15 May 2013 13:15:35 +0000

Tower Defense Meets Match-three in Chilean Startup Syrenaica’s First Mobile Game

SANTIAGO - MAY 15, 2013 – Chilean game developer Syrenaica today announced the launch of its first title, a game called Evilot. Combining the best elements of two popular genres, Evilot is a puzzle defense game where players command the forces of Count Dolfus, a retired evil mastermind whose brooding Golden Years are being disturbed by an army of do-gooders bent on conquering his castle (and stealing all his loot). Funded partially through Kickstarter, the title’s orchestral score sets a mood suitable for a Transylvanian invasion. A free demo version is available in the App Store along with the full version for $0.99. Sink your teeth into puzzle defense, download Evilot now! (Free version) (Full version) Accessible to even casual players, Evilot’s 50 levels are set up on a grid with the forces of Dolfus defending against baddies (err… goodies?), who race down lanes toward mountains of hard-earned treasure. Gameplay goes beyond the traditional “set it and forget it” tower defense mechanic, adding a puzzle-based unit upgrade system. Place three of the same units together in a column or row and they combine to create a more powerful, leveled-up unit. Keep units tightly packed for more powerful upgrades, or spread them out for a weaker, but wider defensive spread. It’s a compelling twist on tower defense that is easy to play, yet difficult to master. Evilot features:

Unique puzzle defense mechanics and level-up system
Challenging, fast-paced gameplay
50 levels across 5 diverse territories
15 playable defender units and 5 special summons
Original orchestral soundtrack specially composed for Evilot

Stay tuned for Android, PC, Mac, Ouya and Linux versions of Evilot, planned for the coming months! Visit http://www.syrenaica.com/ and http://www.evilot.com/ to learn more, then follow Syrenaica on Facebook and Twitter for the latest on Evilot. Assets Check out the trailer on YouTube and find game assets in the press kit. Also, check out this sweet video of the orchestral performance of Evilot’s original soundtrack! About Syrenaica Syrenaica is an independent global interactive entertainment software company founded and located in Santiago, Chile. Their mission is to create groundbreaking games through a culture of joy. Syrenaica develops and publishes interactive software globally for several platforms with emphasis on mobile & social networks.

Media Contact Zach Fuller, TriplePoint zfuller@triplepointpr.com (646) 462-3166

Alien Hive “Blitz Mode” Hatches for iOS and Android; Sporos Now Free on iOS with New “Exploration Lab”

Rahat Rashid — Wed, 15 May 2013 13:00:18 +0000

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Sporos surpasses two million downloads, developer Appxplore celebrates with massive sale for both games

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – May 15, 2013 – Appxplore today announced Blitz Mode, a lightning-fast action variant of their mobile puzzler Alien Hive that gives players just 60 seconds to rack up high scores. Available now as a free update to the iOS and Android apps, Blitz Mode drastically alters Alien Hive’s strategic gameplay, instead presenting a combo-filled time trial experience. It’s essentially a brand new game within the game. Appxplore’s other mobile puzzler Sporos has officially surpassed two million downloads and is temporarily free on iOS. The game also received a new Exploration Lab. In it, the new Jumper Cell adds the ability to teleport and transfer infections from one point to another, challenging players to hit targets using this portal. On top of all this, Appxplore is offering a variety of freebies and discounts on both games. Check out the next evolution of Alien Hive with Blitz Mode, available now for iOS and Android.View the new trailer: Alien Hive -- Blitz Mode -- launch trailer To celebrate Alien Hive’s Blitz Mode and the Sporos Exploration Lab, developer Appxplore is throwing a huge sale May 15-18th. Highlights include:

Sporos iOS price drop – premium version now completely free
Alien Hive for iOS and Android – permanent boosts half off, now just $0.99
- Energy Amplifier lets players start with 200 energy, for double the moves
- Gold Booster doubles the in-game gold you earn, while cutting the cost of purchases in half
- Both boosts are permanent, and also remove ads within the game
Alien Hive in-app gold purchases are also discounted. Chest of Gold $49.99 -> $24.99, Box of Gold $19.99 -> $14.99

The next evolution of Alien Hive just hatched: Blitz Mode offers faster, more fluid action with a combo-heavy spin on the sliding-tile gameplay. More about Sporos: Sporos offers casual accessibility for puzzle fans who enjoy a calm, methodical approach to mobile gaming. Intuitive touch-and-drag controls, vibrant graphics and a minimalist soundtrack create a game that is both understated and challenging at the same time. With a simple goal to “light up every cell,” the game will lure in puzzle gamers with its gradually escalating difficulty. Learn more at the official Sporos website: Appxplore.com/index.php/games/sporos More about Alien Hive: Alien Hive is all about evolving aliens, blending match-3 with sliding tile puzzles for a game that feels both familiar and fresh. Swipe tiles to make matches – combine eggs to hatch cute baby aliens, and then help them fully evolve into Supreme Aliens. Match resource tiles for upgrades that let you take command of the board, with the goal of building the ultimate alien hive. Learn more at the official Alien Hive website: Appxplore.com/index.php/games/alien-hive Download the games!

Alien Hive, with fast-paced new Blitz Mode:
- Alien Hive for iOS [Download]
- Alien Hive for Android [Download]

Sporos, with challenging Exploration Lab in-app purchase:
- Sporos Premium, now free for iOS [Download]
- Sporos for Android [Download]

View the Appxplore website to learn more about both games. Download the latest press kit, with both Alien Hive Blitz Mode and Sporos Exploration Lab assets. Download the NEW Blitz Mode trailer for Alien Hive. Keep up with Appxplore on Facebook and Twitter. Sporos and Alien Hive are coming soon to Amazon Store later this year. About Appxplore Appxplore Sdn. Bhd. is one of Asia's most modern young gaming studios, focused on providing high quality original games & apps. Based in the bustling city of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, they strive to be the region's mobile development leader. Appxplore's friendly team includes award-winning directors and game artists, programmers, and strong management & marketing teams. Different lifestyles and backgrounds have helped the company develop unique mobile IPs. Their three games, Lightopus, Sporos and Alien Hive have been featured by Apple and Google Play, receiving acclaim from G4, CNET, MacLife Kotaku, TUAW, PocketGamer, 148 Apps, Appolicious, Touch Arcade, Games.com and more.

Media Contact Rahat Rashid, TriplePoint for Appxplore rrashid@triplepointpr.com (212) 730-9744

Go Chuck Yourself on iOS and Android Today

Stephanie Palermo — Thu, 09 May 2013 14:00:32 +0000

Chuck the Muck is the new physics-based adventure game from the creators of Critter Escape

ATLANTA – May 9, 2013 – Indie developer Kiz Studios today launched the playfully irreverent adventure game Chuck the Muck on iOS and Android devices. In the game, players chuck a gob of muck named Chuck (say that three times fast) through gooey, interactive puzzles and environments, avoiding obstacles, collecting rewards and unveiling hidden content along the way. Download Chuck the Muck for FREE for iOS and Android devices:

Chuckers will adventure through over 40 challenging levels, stretching and pulling gobs of muck, creating bridges and firing ooze cannons to help your high-flying, flatulent critter collect crystals, dodge volcanoes and avoid sneaky Welk Guards. Chuck the Muck features game-changing abilities, like Deep Sea Diver and Flying Mammal, as well as bonus content and hidden gameplay unlocked by special Spelunker Gear. As they muck about, players will need to collect as many crystals as they can to feed Chuck and help him complete his epically flatulent quest. Chuck the Muck features:

Easy to use trajectory controls
Interactive muck-y physics
40 challenging levels
4 unique environments including the Crystal Mines and Shadow Temple
Unlock costumes with special abilities including the Deep Sea Diver and Flying Mammal
Unlock hidden content and bonus levels with Spelunker Gear
Collect in-game rewards and achievements

For more information about Chuck the Muck visit www.chuckthemuck.com.

Assets - Download the trailer: triplepointpr.com/dl/Kiz/ChuckTheMuck_Trailer.mp4. - Download the media kit: triplepointpr.com/dl/Kiz/Chuck%20the%20Muck%20Media%20Kit.zip.

About Kiz Kiz Studios is an independent video game and entertainment studio with offices in Atlanta, GA and Charleston, SC. Founded in 2007, Kiz Studios develops innovative games and digital media content for a global audience. All content takes place in the Planet Muck™ Universe, a world filled with action, adventure and the never ending battle against the forces of evil. To learn more about our company, please visit www.kizstudios.com.

Media Contact Stephanie Palermo, TriplePoint for Kiz Studios spalermo@triplepointpr.com

10 Million Monthly Active Users Now Playing Sunstorm Games’ Mobile Apps

Tristan Kruth — Thu, 09 May 2013 13:00:02 +0000

Successful Developer of Mobile Games Passes Major Milestones, Invests for the Future

LAS VEGAS - May 9, 2013 – Sunstorm Games, a leading Las Vegas-based developer and publisher of mobile games, today announced that its player community has grown to 10 million Monthly Active Users and one million Daily Active Users. Focused on creating fun mobile experiences since 2008, Sunstorm Games’ community has grown steadily as the company iterates across popular franchises like the “MAKER” series, which host large audiences of both male and female players, prioritizing player feedback and gameplay analysis to substantially improve each new game. The company plans to improve its mobile offering with the upcoming launch of Sunnyville Salon and Sunnyville Pets, its most advanced games to-date in terms of stability, graphics and gameplay. To meet the demands of its growing community and competition in the mobile space, Sunstorm Games has aggressively expanded its internal operations in a six-month period. Alongside new executive hires, the company doubled the size of its engineering team, quadrupled its art team, opened a new satellite office in Cleveland, Ohio, and kicked-off a series of Design and Usability studies. The first Design and Usability study, which involved in-person interviews with real players, resulted in several new improvements for the upcoming Sunnyville Salon and Sunnyville Pets, including more of the customization options the company’s games are known for. “Our history in mobile gaming, combined with our recent investments and focus on player feedback, helps Sunstorm Games offer mobile experiences that players 10 years ago could only dream about,” said Eric Cantini, CEO of Sunstorm Games. “From making your own ICEE flavor to customizing a pet shop, we know what type of personalized, fun experiences boys and girls are really craving, and are well positioned to continue to meet the growing demands of the mobile space in the long term.” To learn more about Sunstorm Games and its latest games, please visit: www.sunstormgames.com About Sunstorm Games Founded in 2008 by a group of gaming and marketing industry veterans, Sunstorm Games is a mobile game developer with offices in Las Vegas and Cleveland. With approximately 10 million unique monthly players, Sunstorm Games is committed to building casual games that boys and girls love. The company’s focus on player feedback and gameplay analysis has led to a series of Design and Usability studies, through which developers identified areas of improvement and requests for new features that will be incorporated into all new releases. Sunstorm Games plans to bring its total mobile offering to 100 different titles by the end of 2013. To learn more, visit www.sunstormgames.com

Media Contact Tristan Kruth, TriplePoint tkruth@triplepointpr.com (415) 955-8500

Reliance Games, Sony Pictures Consumer Products and Overbrook Entertainment Introduce ‘After Earth’ Mobile Game Based on the Official Movie

Erin Fan — Wed, 08 May 2013 13:30:01 +0000

After Earth Mobile Game to Release Alongside Highly-Anticipated Adventure Film This Summer

LOS ANGELES, Calif. – May 8, 2013 – Reliance Games, a leading international developer and publisher of mobile games, Sony Pictures Consumer Products and Overbrook Entertainment, today announced a creative collaboration to bring the action-packed After Earth digital mobile game, based on the upcoming movie, in theaters May 31. Reliance Games is working closely with Sony Pictures and Overbrook Entertainment to craft an interactive experience to supplement the movie; Behaviour Interactive is developing the game. The action packed runner game features two modes: one that lets users play the story and a second that challenges their skill with an endless level. Players must confront and defeat an array of vicious enemies in epic battles and explore the stunning environments inspired by the film. “We are thrilled to work with Reliance Games to bring a high-quality, immersive experience to our fans,” said After Earth Producer, Caleeb Pinkett. “The game brings to life lots of the action and suspense of the After Earth universe." Throughout the After Earth gaming experience, players must show no fear as they dodge attacks and collect hidden and unique artifacts to enhance the game experience. “We’re excited about this great opportunity to bring After Earth to mobile by creating a challenging game with stunningly beautiful 3D environments that were inspired by the film,” said Manish Agarwal, CEO of Reliance Games. “We have experience translating popular IPs into mobile and we aim to continue that success with our partnership with Sony Pictures and Overbrook.” The After Earth game will launch this summer on smartphones and tablets. For more information, watch the teaser video here: http://youtu.be/vDnYA336jTg In After Earth, a crash landing leaves teenager Kitai Raige (Jaden Smith) and his legendary father Cypher (Will Smith) stranded on Earth, 1,000 years after cataclysmic events forced humanity’s escape. With Cypher critically injured, Kitai must embark on a perilous journey to signal for help, facing uncharted terrain, evolved animal species that now rule the planet, and an unstoppable alien creature that escaped during the crash. Father and son must learn to work together and trust one another if they want any chance of returning home. Columbia Pictures presents an Overbrook Entertainment/Blinding Edge Pictures production directed by M. Night Shyamalan from a screenplay by Gary Whitta and M. Night Shyamalan and a story by Will Smith, and produced by Caleeb Pinkett, Jada Pinkett Smith & Will Smith, James Lassiter, and M. Night Shyamalan. About Reliance Games Reliance Games, a leading publisher and developer of mass-market mobile games, is the international gaming division of Reliance Entertainment, which also comprises entities like DreamWorks, SKG, IM Global and Codemasters. The game portfolio includes more than 600 games for over 2,000 devices across various operating systems like iOS, Android, Windows, Java and Symbian. Its current roster of hit games includes Real Steel, Total Recall, and F1 2011, among others. The company's content can be accessed worldwide through 80 networks across 40 countries as well as through global app stores. Find Reliance Games on the web and get the latest news on our products by going to: www.reliancegames.com. Visit us on Facebook and Twitter. All trademarks referenced herein are the property of their respective owners. About Sony Pictures Entertainment Sony Pictures Entertainment (SPE) is a subsidiary of Sony Corporation of America, a subsidiary of Tokyo-based Sony Corporation. SPE's global operations encompass motion picture production, acquisition and distribution; television production, acquisition and distribution; television networks; digital content creation and distribution; operation of studio facilities; and development of new entertainment products, services and technologies. For additional information, go to http://www.sonypictures.com/. About Overbrook Entertainment Overbrook Entertainment, founded by partners James Lassiter and Will Smith, is committed to offering the highest quality entertainment focused in film and television and has produced a diverse slate of both critically acclaimed and blockbuster feature films, which have generated more than $2.5 billion dollars in worldwide box office receipts and even more in home video sales. Some of Overbrook's most successful films include ALI, HITCH, PURSUIT OF HAPPYNESS, I AM LEGEND, HANCOCK, SECRET LIVES OF BEES, and most recently THE KARATE KID. Overbrook's next feature project is AFTER EARTH, which is set for a May 31, 2013 release. Media Contact Reliance Games Rebecca Tran Vu Head of Marketing Rebecca.TranVu@relianceada.com Assets Watch the trailer on YouTube

Skydog™ Surpasses Crowdfunding Goal, Announces New Offerings for Expanded Coverage

Phillip Klugman — Tue, 07 May 2013 16:39:35 +0000

Cloud-Powered Wi-Fi Router and Mobile App Delivers New Era of Easy-to-Use Networking

PALO ALTO, Calif. – May 7, 2013 – PowerCloud® Systems, a pioneer in cloud networking, today announced that Skydog™, after having reached its $75,000 funding goal on Kickstarter, will extend its home network offering to larger homes and small businesses. Skydog is a Wi-Fi router and mobile companion app that brings a user-friendly approach and innovative management functionality to home networking. With one week left to raise post-goal funds, PowerCloud Systems has unveiled two new offers available via Kickstarter: a Skydog Wi-Fi Range Extender Kit, ideal for large homes and small businesses, and a Multi-Dwelling Skydog Four-Pack, for those who want to manage multiple networks, such as adult parents' homes, on a single account. Both new offers were created in response to requests and feedback from Kickstarter backers to broaden the reach of Skydog's unique network visibility and control features. The extender kit will allow users to cover up to 6,000 square feet with wireless internet access and all of Skydog's control and management functionality. This range comfortably covers large houses and many small business, such as restaurants and professional offices, where the ability to offer firewalled Wi-Fi access to customers, clients or patients is increasingly important. The Skydog router four-pack enables simple, single-account management for multiple networks and locations, such as a second home, vacation cabin, or parent’s home across the country. The Skydog Wi-Fi Range Extender Kit is available for a pledge of $299, while a four pack of Skydog routers is available for pledges of $399 or more. “We were thrilled to have reached our funding goal so quickly because it proved that Skydog addresses an unmet need for simple visibility and control of personal wifi networks,” said Jeff Abramowitz, founder and CEO of PowerCloud Systems. “We are very grateful to our backers and look forward to getting Skydog into their homes. With our new offers, we can better serve those with larger homes and multiple dwellings, as well as provide an easy-to-use solution for small businesses.” The proliferation of connected devices in homes and small businesses is creating a complexity challenge for anyone responsible for managing a network. PowerCloud Systems, with its extensive experience providing Networking-as-a-Service to the enterprise, has the expertise and, with the success of Skydog’s Kickstarter campaign, the consumer validation to disrupt the home, and now small business, networking space. The Skydog solution represents a new era in network management, enabling users in households and small businesses to improve their connected experiences. The solution gives real-time visibility to network administrators, who can monitor their network in terms of which users and specific devices are connected to it, for how long, and for what purposes. With Skydog, heads of households can even manage broadband usage by setting up zones which place bandwidth priority on certain functions, like the home office during the day and streaming video at night. Furthermore, all of this can be done anytime and anywhere via the Skydog mobile companion, an HTML5 app that works on any smartphone or tablet. To order your own Skydog home networking solution, extender kit, or four-pack, please visit the Kickstarter page at http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/110098832/skydog-your-home-network-reinvented. Please follow Skydog on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/skydoghome) and Twitter (@skydog). About PowerCloud Systems PowerCloud® Systems is a leader and industry pioneer for cloud-powered wireless networking. The company’s patented and award-winning CloudCommand™ technology was invented at the Palo Alto Research Center (PARC) and makes deploying and monitoring Wi-Fi networks and services easy for businesses with mobile customers. The CloudCommand platform is deployed worldwide in hotels, schools, retail chains, managed care facilities and other businesses seeking truly affordable, enterprise-grade Wi-Fi. Investors include PARC, Qualcomm Ventures, Javelin Venture Partners and Walden Venture Capital. More information can be found at www.powercloudsystems.com Media Contact Andrew Karl, TriplePoint PR akarl@triplepointpr.com 415-955-8500

Kickstarter Funded Puzzle Defense Game Evilot Launching May 15th

Zach Fuller — Tue, 07 May 2013 14:51:27 +0000

Syrenaica Set To Bring Anti-hero Action to iPad

SANTIAGO - MAY 07, 2013 – Chilean game developer Syrenaica today announces the upcoming launch of its first title, Evilot, on May 15th. A hybrid of two popular genres, Evilot is a puzzle defense game where players command the forces of Count Dolfus. He’s a somewhat-evil overlord who merely wants to retire in peace, but is forced to defend his treasure from the army of heroes and do-gooders determined to conquer his castle (and steal all his loot). The game will launch first on iOS for $0.99, with Android, PC, Mac, Ouya and Linux versions planned for the coming months. Accessible and familiar, Evilot’s 50 levels are set up on a grid with your forces defending individual lanes from opponents racing towards the treasure piled high behind you. However, gameplay goes beyond the traditional “set it and forget it” tower defense mechanic with the addition of a puzzle-based level-up system. Place three units next to each other in a column or row and they combine to create a more powerful, leveled-up unit. Keep units tightly packed for more powerful upgrades, or spread them out for a weaker, but wider defensive spread. It’s a compelling twist on tower defense that is easy to play, yet difficult to master. Players can expect:

Challenging, fast-paced gameplay
Unique puzzle defense mechanics and level-up system
50 levels across 5 diverse territories
15 playable defender units and 5 special summons
Original orchestral soundtrack specially composed for Evilot

Visit http://www.syrenaica.com/ to learn more, and follow Syrenaica on Facebook and Twitter for the latest news on Evilot. Assets Check out the trailer on YouTube and find game assets in the press kit. Also, check out this sweet video of the orchestral performance of Evilot’s original soundtrack! About Syrenaica Syrenaica is an independent global interactive entertainment software company founded and located in Santiago, Chile. Their mission is to create groundbreaking games through a culture of joy. Syrenaica develops and publishes interactive software globally for several platforms with emphasis on mobile & social networks.

Media Contact Zach Fuller, TriplePoint zfuller@triplepointpr.com (646) 462-3166

Indie Game Studio Wyrmbyte’s Dragons and Titans Roars into Open Beta

Zach Fuller — Wed, 01 May 2013 13:03:49 +0000

Cross-Platform Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA) Title Opens For Public Feedback on Facebook in Partnership with Zynga

SAN FRANCISCO — May 1, 2013 — Wyrmbyte, an indie video game studio created by industry veteran Scott Brown, today announced that the company’s inaugural title, Dragons and Titans, is entering into open beta on Facebook. Dragons and Titans combines the ubiquity of the Web with the latest social features and unique gameplay elements to create a new, fast-paced MOBA experience. After successfully operating and testing in closed beta since late 2012, Wyrmbyte is seeking the input of gamers worldwide to further refine and polish their breakout MOBA title before launching later this year. Play Dragons and Titans now at https://apps.facebook.com/dragonsandtitans/ “In the final stretches of putting together a next-generation social game, we believe there’s no better way to achieve success than engaging directly with our players,” said Brown, founder and president of Wyrmbyte. “We’re eager for players to offer their unique input and touches to the game, so that we have Dragons and Titans near perfect for the game’s official launch later this year.” To bring Dragons and Titans to as many players as possible, Wyrmbyte is partnering with Zynga (NASDAQ: ZNGA), the world’s leading provider of social game services, to introduce Dragons and Titans to a broad swath of Facebook users looking for an action-packed, multiplayer gaming experience. Dragons and Titans is designed as a mid-to-hardcore MOBA game, where groups of five players battle against an enemy team of five opposing players. Gamers pick one of 17 unique dragons to control as well as their choice of 16 different weapons for each match, making each game a player-tailored experience since both dragons and weapons each contribute two unique skills for players. Over time, dragons and special weapons will also level-up as they are used more often, adding an important mastery element to the gameplay experience. Wyrmbyte also plans to add new content and features to Dragons and Titans on a weekly basis to keep the game fresh and engaging. Access the Dragons and Titans open beta now on Facebook: https://apps.facebook.com/dragonsandtitans/ Like Dragons and Titans on Facebook at the following link: https://www.facebook.com/DragonsAndTitans About Wyrmbyte Founded in 2012, Wyrmbyte is focused on building cutting-edge cross-platform video game experiences. The team at Wyrmbyte is comprised of veteran gaming developers from END Games Entertainment and NetDevil. Dragons and Titans is the studio’s first official title. Official Website | Facebook | Twitter

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Press Contact: TriplePoint PR for Wyrmbyte Wyrmbyte@triplepointpr.com 415-955-8500

The Hordes of Zombie Tycoon 2 Charge onto The PlayStation Network

Zach Fuller — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 17:00:33 +0000

Spirited Cross Buy and Cross Play RTS Lands on PS3 and PS Vita

QUEBEC CITY – April 30, 2013 – Today Frima Studio announces the launch of Zombie Tycoon 2: Brainhov’s Revenge for the PS3 and PS Vita! The sequel to 2009’s hit PS Minis title Zombie Tycoon, Brainhov’s Revenge ups the ante on the lighthearted RTS gameplay of the original with new zombie factions and units, expansive maps and Cross Play functionality to link players on consoles and handhelds for intense 1v1 deathmatches. The game is available on PSN for $9.99 and FREE for PS Plus members. Choose your side as either rogue apprentice Orville Tycoon with his shambling, heavy-duty zombies or vengeful former mentor Professor Brainhov and his new breed of frantic, agile undead. Unleash your ravenous squads to decide which zombie breed will inherit the scorched earth and its tasty buffet of brains. Players can expect:

A well-balanced RTS designed for console gameplay, with four special monster (hero) units and six unique zombie units (Brawlers, Scavengers, Engineers, Samurai, Cleaners and Scouts) to keep gameplay fresh.
Cross Buy and Cross Save functionality on the PS3 and Vita. Buy it once, play it anywhere!
A single player campaign featuring both Orville defending his conquered territory and Brainhov attempting to reclaim his former glory.
Strategic, 1v1 online multiplayer battles between PS3 and Vita players via Cross Play technology.
Brain-boggling graphics powered by Unreal Engine 3.

In honor of the sequel’s launch, the original Zombie Tycoon is available for the special price of $2.99. Download Zombie Tycoon 2 now from the PSN and follow the game on Facebook for the latest from Frima Studio! Assets Check out the trailer and download the press kit. About Frima Studio Frima is Canada’s largest independently owned game developer. Since 2003, the company has been developing world-class media including virtual worlds, social and web based games, console titles and mobile apps. Their services also include the animation and special effects expertise of Frima FX as well as the concept art development of Volta. In addition to working with world-renowned clients such as Electronic Arts, Activision, Warner Brothers and Ubisoft, Frima develops successful, original IP titles such as Nun Attack, Zombie Tycoon, A Space Shooter for 2 Bucks! and Lights, Camera, Party!. With over 350 artists and programmers in-house, Frima produces high-caliber products that are as remarkably outstanding artistically as they are technically. Official Website | Facebook | @FrimaStudio

Media Contact Zach Fuller, TriplePoint zfuller@triplepointpr.com 646.462.3166

TareasPlus, Leading Instructional Video Platform in Latin America, Launches New Educational Exchange

Tristan Kruth — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 15:00:28 +0000

Aula TareasPlus allows teachers to upload original content and lesson plans for students NEW YORK – April 29, 2013 - TareasPlus, a San Francisco-based startup that has delivered more than 10 million STEM video lessons in Spanish to students throughout Spain and Latin America, today announced the beta launch of their new platform Aula TareasPlus at the TechCrunch Disrupt Conference. Aula TareasPlus is an educational exchange that allows students to connect with the best teachers from around the world to learn, practice their skills and test their knowledge of material in the areas of math and science. The exchange provides teachers a platform to upload original material to connect with students, giving students access to immediate answers and opportunities for learning. TareasPlus is an instructional video platform that provides 9-12 minute tutorials on math and science for Spanish-speaking high school and early college students. The service answers a universal demand for STEM instruction, as evidenced by its 70,000 visitors per day and its position as one of the top 20 most downloaded educational apps in Latin America. As millions of students throughout Spain and Latin America utilized TareasPlus’ extensive video library, surpassing Khan Academy’s with 3,600 videos and counting, founders Hernan Jaramillo and Roberto Cuartas quickly realized they needed to open their platform to teachers as well – thus, the idea for Aula TareasPlus was born. “Aula TareasPlus grew out of our own observations of the way digital natives learn, and also by teachers’ requests to make our platform and tools available to them,” said Hernan Jaramillo, founder and CEO of TareasPlus. “We’re excited that teachers and students alike will be able to benefit from the new educational exchange, which makes quality educational material readily available on a massive distribution platform so educators can replicate their teaching efforts on the highest possible scale.” Aula TareasPlus allows teachers to create their own lessons and upload them TareasPlus without having to fumble with cumbersome learning management systems that are limited to students within a particular school. When teachers upload content to the easy-to-use Aula TareasPlus exchange, that content becomes searchable by all students who use the TareasPlus platform, so users can find help with whatever subject they need, whenever they need it. Best of all, Aula TareasPlus offers so much more than an extensive content repository – TareasPlus is applying its progress tracking, testing capabilities, and social tool features to the new exchange, which can be utilized by teachers and students to enhance learning. The beta launch of Aula TareasPlus will make even more excellent content available on TareasPlus’ online platform of math and science videos. TareasPlus’ exceptional library of content provides students, who return to the site multiple times a week for extra help with their classes, unlimited time to learn and unlimited access to education through high quality videos and massive distribution.

Assets

Press kit: Link About TareasPlus helps students at all age ranges learn math and science with quick and compelling video explanations in Spanish. The company is founded by math expert Roberto Cuartas and entrepreneur Hernan Jaramillo. Tareasplus is based in San Francisco and has offices in Medellin, Colombia. For more information, visit www.tareasplus.com Facebook | @Twitter

Media Contact Caity Doyle, TriplePoint cdoyle@triplepointpr.com (415) 955-8500

Blackbird Interactive Announces Limited Edition Presale Package for HARDWARE: Shipbreakers

Tristan Kruth — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 15:01:53 +0000

Veteran RTS Game Development Studio Offers Exclusive Companion Content for its Highly-anticipated Title

VANCOUVER, CANADA – April 26, 2013 – Blackbird Interactive, a videogame developer specializing in sci-fi real-time strategy games, today announced the pre-sale of a “VIP PACKAGE” for their upcoming title, HARDWARE: Shipbreakers. This VIP PACKAGE features guaranteed access to the upcoming HARDWARE: Shipbreakers Closed Beta, along with an in-fiction Prospector’s Guide and gameplay guide.

The HARDWARE: Shipbreakers FIRST WAVE VIP PACKAGE also includes:

Unreleased high-res game concept art from Aaron Kambeitz, Rob Cunningham and Cody Kenworthy!
The HARDWARE: Shipbreakers Official Soundtrack by Paul Ruskay (when available).
FIRST WAVE VIP chat: Moderated web-chat with an “ask me anything” perspective with core team members where non-public information will be discussed.
Special Feedback Forum: Your ideas count!
Stake Your Claim: Land naming rights to the first 2,000 FIRST WAVE VIP PACKAGES purchased.

Prospector’s Guide Highlights:

Getting Acquainted: The History of Long March Industries, LMI and You, What It Takes To Succeed, Your First 72 Hours, Known Shipwreck Manifests and Coordinates.
Equipment Catalog: Military Ground Support, Aerial Support and Attack Strategies.
Operator’s Manual: Baserunner Model, Packages, Options & Accessories, Capabilities and Best Uses.

The in-fiction manual for HARDWARE: Shipbreakers will provide an exclusive introduction to the game’s planet, LM-27. It will familiarize players with back story on the characters, map interest points, unit specifications, and secret contract locations hidden amongst the dunes. Fans who purchase the companion, will also be granted access to non-fiction elements, such as the Gameplay Guide and HARDWARE concept art from Art Director Aaron Kambeitz and CEO Rob Cunningham.

"We are pleased to announce this pre-sale campaign to open the doors to all the fans who are interested in supporting our efforts and want to enter a new era of RTS gameplay and deep fiction” said Dan Irish, Executive Producer of Blackbird Interactive, Inc. “As we move forward with this project, we feel that players will receive a huge value from participating in the Pre-sale – particularly the ongoing release of HARDWARE: Shipbreakers content via the Prospector’s Handbook.”

"The team at BBI are a team of true entertainment craftsmen who have inspired our entire industry with their works" added Brian Martel, Executive Vice President of Gearbox Software. "With the PreSale campaign now public, gamers and developers alike should jump at the chance to support the creators at BBI. HARDWARE: Shipbreakers looks amazing."

For more information:

- Visit the website: www.longmarchindustries.com

- Like on Facebook: www.facebook.com/HARDWAREtheGame

- Follow on Twitter: www.twitter.com/HARDWAREtheGame

- Subscribe on YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/InsideBBI

Assets

- Watch video on YouTube. - Download video.

About Blackbird Interactive

Blackbird is a private, independent game studio headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia. The company was founded in 2007, by a team of experienced and successful video game industry veterans, including senior EA staff and founders of Relic Entertainment.

In 2010 development started with an ambitious and original sci-fi game entitled HARDWARE, the newest Free to Play (F2P) real-time strategy (RTS) game from the creators of Homeworld.

For more information, please visit www.blackbirdinteractive.com

About Hardware

Hardware is the newest Free to Play (F2P) real-time strategy (RTS) game from the creators of Homeworld.

Survive among the derelict starships of planet LM-27. Earn your in-game currency retrieving cargo and technology from the space-wrecks littered across the landscape. Combat onslaughts from militant competitors, equally desperate for wealth. Survive the harsh storms and burning temperatures, and endure the poisonous grinding dust that wears down man and machine alike. After that, fortune can be your reward, or death in the sand can be your lonely fate.

For more information, please visit www.hardwarethegame.com

Press Contact Stephanie Palermo Account Executive TriplePoint, on behalf of Blackbird Interactive spalermo@triplepointpr.com +1 (415) 955-8500

PlayFirst Takes Puzzle-match Gameplay to New Depths with Deep Sea Deli on iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch

Diana Smith — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 16:00:47 +0000

Leading Mobile Game Studio Dives in with Lovable Characters, Limitless Play, Friendly Competition and a Boat-load of Mystery Meat

SAN FRANCISCO – April 25, 2013 – PlayFirst® Inc., a global leader in mobile games for family and friends, today announced Deep Sea Deli, a quirky puzzle-match arcade title, available now on the App Store for iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch. In addition to introducing a new and endearing PlayFirst character, Narly the Narwhal, Deep Sea Deli advances the puzzle-match genre by being the first game to combine limitless play-sessions with strategic depth and social competition, all in an undersea setting filled with lighthearted and witty humor. Players can download Deep Sea Deli for free on the App Store or view the game in action with the official trailer. “With Deep Sea Deli, we have created a brand-new game that redefines the standard in puzzle-match games, providing endless opportunities for our fans to play, share, and compete,” said Marco DeMiroz, president and CEO, PlayFirst. “Drawing on experience from past PlayFirst successes, we’ve built our newest franchise with the polish and quirky fun that has made players lifelong fans of our games.” In Deep Sea Deli players meet Narly, a down-on-his-luck former hotshot in the terrifying sport of tusking. Narly finds inspiration one night when a storm tosses and turns a cargo ship until a deluge of deli meat goes tumbling into his reef, complete with a slice of swiss cheese hung handsomely on his horn. Seeing his friends go nuts for the land-based lunchmeat, and eyeing the entrepreneurial chance of a lifetime, Narly dons an apron and opens a diner of his own. Unlike many puzzle-matching games, Deep Sea Deli doesn’t enforce a time limit on play sessions; it’s all about skill and careful sandwich-smithing. Charming tunes and vibrant effects accompany every tap of the game’s intuitive sliding mechanic, adding personality as players quickly assemble “submarine” sandwiches while clearing a grid of bubble-bound ingredients. But to turn up the pace and earn high scores, Narly’s friends can help when players are in a pinch, like Monstro the whale clearing a board or Hungry Hoover gulping down stray ingredients that players can’t use. Other boosts include time-buffs for bonuses and, of course, wads of mystery meat that players can slap into any sandwich for extra points – if they’re quick enough to earn them. Use the ingredients wisely, and players will reel in bonus points and swim up the leaderboards in no time, perhaps even winning one of Deep Sea Deli’s weekly tournaments. "Gameplay and character development are top priorities at PlayFirst, and we can't wait for our fans to start making sandwiches with a playful character like Narly in his first big adventure, Deep Sea Deli," said Becky Ann Hughes, vice president of marketing & product management at PlayFirst. "We designed Deep Sea Deli to be challenging yet entertaining, expanding our lineup of brands and characters that players have grown to love." Deep Sea Deli is now available for free on iPhone, iPod touch, iPad, and iPad mini via the App Store. Fans – Head to Hawaii in the “What’s in the Water” Contest! Fans can visit www.whatsinthewater.com to not only find out more about Deep Sea Deli, but also enter to win a variety of prizes, including an all-expenses trip to Hawaii with a submarine tour and Deep Sea Deli-branded merchandise. The contest is open until May 3rd, so visit the site today!

About PlayFirst At PlayFirst, we believe you can have fun anywhere, any time and at any age. That’s why we’re committed to creating mobile games for everyone to enjoy, including the fan-favorite DASH® series of games like Diner Dash® and SpongeBob Diner Dash®. Whether you’re in line at the store, on your lunch break or lounging at home, you only need a minute to dive into a PlayFirst game—but you’ll find a lifetime of entertainment. PlayFirst games are played by tens of millions of fans worldwide, and we’re just getting started. To find out more about our talented team and our awesome games, please visit www.playfirst.com. Official website | Facebook| @PlayFirst

Media Contacts TriplePoint for PlayFirst playfirst@triplepointpr.com 415-955-8500 Lauren Quan, PlayFirst lquan@playfirst.com 510-520-3468

Assets To download the full press kit for Deep Sea Deli, click here. To view the Deep Sea Deli trailer, click here.

Video Games Intelligence Announces Independent’s Day Keynote

Tristan Kruth — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 12:00:25 +0000

NEW YORK -- April 24, 2013 -- Video Games Intelligence has announced today the launch of Independent’s Day, an afternoon of conference sessions and networking focused on indie mobile game development, on May 13^th, prior to the start of their annual Mobile Gaming USA West conference in San Francisco on May 14-15^th. The keynote speech will be given by Wilson Kriegel, the former CRO of Draw Something creators OMGPOP. He currently serves as President of Paltalk, a leading provider of audio and video communications services. “From the rising costs of user acquisition to the increased challenges of getting mobile games discovered on iOS and Android, indie game developers have a lot to navigate in their quests for long-term profitability,” said Max Rollinger, Director of Mobile Gaming USA. “We’re excited to have Wilson share his insights from years of working with indie mobile developers; he’s certainly the perfect person to keynote our Independent’s Day event.” Kriegel’s keynote will be a comprehensive guide to surviving and thriving as an indie mobile game developer on a tight budget, from creating valuable partnerships to getting your games in front of the right audiences. To celebrate the launch of these Independent’s Day sessions, special pricing is being offered this week for those interested in attending. Links to registration are available by clicking here.

All registrants purchasing a Gold conference pass for Mobile Gaming USA West between today and April 25^th will receive complimentary admission to the Independent’s Day sessions on May 13^th.
All registrants purchasing an All-Access pass to Mobile Gaming USA West can use the discount code MR200 to receive $200 off that conference pass if purchased before April 25^th. Independent’s Day admission is included in the ticket price.

For more information on the Independent’s Day sessions or Mobile Gaming USA West, please contact Max Rollinger at mrollinger@mobilegamingusa.com.

Chartboost Opens First International Office in Europe

Phillip Klugman — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 07:03:42 +0000

Amsterdam Offers Close Proximity to Development Hubs and Hundreds of Chartboost’s Current Partners; Dutch Game Veteran Ilja Goossens to Lead Operations

SAN FRANCISCO - April 23, 2013 - Chartboost, the leading technology platform for mobile games, today announced it has opened its first international office in Amsterdam. The new location enables the company to provide real-time support to the one third of Chartboost developers who are already based in Europe. These include companies like Danish developer Kiloo, UK-based King and Natural Motion, Outfit7 from Slovenia, Wooga from Germany, and Finland’s Supercell. "We have always admired European developers and find their creativity and leadership inspiring. We are excited to now be even closer to that thriving game ecosystem,” said Maria Alegre, co-founder and CEO, Chartboost. “Ilja shares Chartboost’s gaming DNA and we’re thrilled to have him onboard." Ilja Goossens, an industry veteran who founded Gamundo and Virtual Fairground, joined Chartboost this month to lead the new European team of 5 that includes several early Chartboost employees. “As a game developer myself, I have lived through the challenges of building and launching games,” said Ilja Goossens, Regional Director, Chartboost Europe. “What drew me to Chartboost was their passion for helping developers achieve success and I’m excited to help our partners continue to grow their businesses worldwide.” In January, Chartboost raised a $19 million series B led by Sequoia Capital to accelerate its growth. Since then the company has doubled the number of San Francisco employees to 60, graduated its first University Bootcamp class, and increased the number of games in its network from 12,000 to 16,000. For more information about Chartboost’s new European office and plans this summer, please see read Maria’s message on the company’s blog: blog.chartboost.com. About Chartboost Chartboost is the leading games-only technology platform that helps developers reach more users and make more money. The company powers over 16,000 games and works with companies like Backflip, Capcom, Com2us, Crowdstar, DeNA, Djnworks, Fluik, Gameloft, Gamevil, Get Set Games, GREE, Kabam, Kiloo, King, Natural Motion, Neon Play, Nimblebit, Outfit7,Pik Pok, Pocket Gems, Supercell, TinyCo, Wooga, Z2labs and many more. The Chartboost network reaches over 300 million unique monthly devices and drives over eight billion game sessions per month. Headquartered in San Francisco, Chartboost was founded in 2011 and has raised a total of $21M from Sequoia Capital and other investors. More information at www.chartboost.com.

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Media Contact: Andrew Karl TriplePoint PR, for Chartboost (+1) 203-314-6255 akarl@triplepointpr.com

Media Advisory: PlayFirst Sneaks Peek at New Game with Character Gossip Blog whatsinthewater.com

Diana Smith — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 16:37:10 +0000

SAN FRANCISCO – April 22, 2013 – PlayFirst^® Inc., the global leader in mobile games for family and friends, today unveiled the mysterious website whatsinthewater.com to build interest for its newest game launching on April 25, 2013. The gossip blog will reveal new characters from PlayFirst’s upcoming game and offer a window into the subaquatic storyline. Each day until the game’s launch, an anonymous blogger will dish up the details on one character’s role in the dramatic community of meat-eating fish. So far, the reporter has divulged that a shipwreck has broken through the bubbling seas, raining crates of collateral on swimmers below. “At PlayFirst, we’re always thinking of fun ways to engage our fans, and we created the ‘What’s in the Water’ campaign to pique interest for our new mobile title by employing a quirky gossip-style blog,” said Marco DeMiroz, CEO, PlayFirst. “Stay tuned for more news coming from PlayFirst this week, as we’ll finally get to share what we’ve been working on for the past few months.” Fans that visit whatsinthewater.com to stay in the know for the gossip of the sea can also enter to win a variety of prizes courtesy of PlayFirst, including an all-expenses paid trip to Hawaii. With over 10 million daily active users, PlayFirst has seen success leveraging its hit DASH® game franchise, titles in partnership with Sony and Nickelodeon, and its recent move to Android. The company will continue to grow this year, fueled by the new franchise whatsinthewater.com will introduce. To wade through the watery world of PlayFirst’s newest characters, swim on over to whatsinthewater.com. About PlayFirst At PlayFirst, we believe you can have fun anywhere, any time and at any age. That’s why we’re committed to creating mobile games for everyone to enjoy, including the fan-favorite DASH® series of games like Diner Dash® and SpongeBob Diner Dash®. Whether you’re in line at the store, on your lunch break or lounging at home, you only need a minute to dive into a PlayFirst game—but you’ll find a lifetime of entertainment. PlayFirst games are played by tens of millions of fans worldwide, and we’re just getting started. To find out more about our talented team and our awesome games, please visit www.playfirst.com. Official website | Facebook| @PlayFirst

Assets Media Contacts TriplePoint for PlayFirst playfirst@triplepointpr.com 415-955-8500 Lauren Quan, PlayFirst lquan@playfirst.com 510-520-3468

For Science!! Sporos “Discovery Lab” Out Now for iOS and Android; Alien Hive “Blitz Mode” Hatching Soon

Rich Jones — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 13:00:09 +0000

Surpassing 1 million downloads, biological puzzler Sporos is a Google Play Staff Pick

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – April 19, 2013 – Appxplore today announced Discovery Lab, a brand new mode for Sporos, the puzzle game for iOS and Android that’s equal parts relaxing and brain-bending. The Discovery Lab adds a new twist that will challenge veteran players and amateur scientists alike: the robust new Phago Cell needs to be infected twice with Sporos seeds, from two different directions at once. The developer’s other puzzle game, Alien Hive, will also gain a major content update, “Blitz Mode,” which is essentially a brand new game within the game. Players will experience faster, more fluid action with an imaginative spin on Alien Hive’s sliding-tile gameplay. Check out the Blitz Mode teaser trailer, below, and explore the spores in Sporos, out now for iOS and Android. [Alien Hive -- Blitz Mode trailer] More about Sporos: Sporos offers casual accessibility for puzzle fans who enjoy a calm, methodical approach to mobile gaming. Intuitive touch-and-drag controls, vibrant graphics and a minimalist soundtrack create a game that is both understated and challenging at the same time. With a simple goal to “light up every cell,” the game will lure in puzzle gamers with its gradually escalating difficulty. Learn more at the official Sporos website. More about Alien Hive: Alien Hive is all about evolving aliens, blending match-3 with sliding tile puzzles for a game that feels both familiar and fresh. Swipe tiles to make matches – combine eggs to hatch cute baby aliens, and then help them fully evolve into Supreme Aliens. Match resource tiles for upgrades that let you take command of the board, with the goal of building the ultimate alien hive. Learn more at the official Alien Hive website. Download the games!

Sporos, with challenging Discovery Lab in-app purchase, available now:
- Sporos Free for iOS [Download]
- Sporos Premium for iOS [Download]
- Sporos for Android [Download]
Alien Hive, with fast-paced new Blitz Mode, coming soon:
- Alien Hive for iOS [Download]
- Alien Hive for Android [Download]

View the Appxplore website to learn more about both games. Keep up with Appxplore on Facebook and Twitter. About Appxplore Appxplore Sdn. Bhd. is one of Asia's most modern young gaming studios, focused on providing high quality original games & apps. Based in the bustling city of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, they strive to be the region's mobile development leader. Appxplore's friendly team includes award-winning directors and game artists, programmers, and strong management & marketing teams. Different lifestyles and backgrounds have helped the company develop unique mobile IPs. Their debut game, 2012’s Lightopus, was featured by Apple and received acclaim from G4, PocketGamer, 148 Apps, Appolicious, and Touch Arcade. Their followup, Sporos was featured by Google Play with over a dozen positive reviews, including CNET, MacLife and PocketGamer.

Media Contact Rich Jones, TriplePoint for Appxplore rjones@triplepointpr.com (212) 730-9744

SoftKinetic Joins the Embedded Vision Alliance

Jesse Henning — Thu, 18 Apr 2013 17:30:18 +0000

Company to Lend Expertise in 3D Gesture Recognition to Industry Alliance BRUSSELS – April 18, 2013 – SoftKinetic, the leading 3D gesture recognition software and solution provider, has joined the Embedded Vision Alliance. This group, which includes industry notables like Texas Instruments, Intel, and NVIDIA, seeks to promote the development and adoption of embedded vision technologies. SoftKinetic brings its expertise in developing 3D gesture control hardware and middleware, as well as games and applications, to the Embedded Vision Alliance. “We are delighted to join the Embedded Vision Alliance and look forward to working with such an esteemed group of companies and collaborators,” said Eric Krzeslo, CMO of SoftKinetic. “We hope that our expertise in developing gesture control solutions – including hardware, middleware, and content – can help to further bring embedded vision products to market.” The Embedded Vision Alliance is led by Berkeley Design Technology Inc., an independent technology analysis firm. The goal of the group is to inspire and empower embedded system designers to use embedded vision technology. By partnering with a broad range of technology companies active in the embedded systems and embedded vision space, the group hopes to achieve this goal by providing system design engineers with the practical know-how needed to effectively incorporate embedded vision technology into their designs. SoftKinetic designs, develops and commercializes 3D time-of-flight technology including sensors, cameras, and modules, as well as 3D gesture recognition middleware for both long-range and short-range applications. With a highly optimized CPU footprint, SoftKinetic’s solutions are perfect for embedded platforms, as well as personal computers, consoles, set-top boxes, and smart TVs. Combined with world-class support, SoftKinetic is the leader in gesture recognition offerings. For more information, please visit www.softkinetic.com. About SoftKinetic SoftKinetic’s vision is to give everyone the freedom to control, explore and enjoy the entire digital world through the most natural and intuitive user interfaces and machine interactions. SoftKinetic is the leading provider of gesture-based platforms for the consumer electronics and professional markets. The company offers a complete family of 3D imaging and gesture recognition solutions, including patented 3D CMOS time-of-flight sensors, cameras and modules (DepthSense® family of products, formerly known as Optrima product family), multi-platform and multi-camera 3D gesture recognition middleware and tools (iisu® family of products) as well as games and applications from SoftKinetic Studios. With over 8 years of R&D on both hardware and software, SoftKinetic solutions have already been successfully used in the field of interactive digital entertainment, consumer electronics, health care and other professional markets (such as digital signage and medical systems). SoftKinetic, iisu, DepthSense and The Interface Is You are trade names or registered trademarks of SoftKinetic. For more information on SoftKinetic please visit www.softkinetic.com. For videos of SoftKinetic-related products visit SoftKinetic’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/SoftKinetic. Official Website | Facebook | @Twitter

Media Contact Andrew Karl, TriplePoint for SoftKinetic softkinetic@triplepointpr.com (415) 955-8500

Papo & Yo Released For PC

Stephanie Palermo — Thu, 18 Apr 2013 13:00:28 +0000

Minority's Award-winning Adventure Game Featuring a Boy and his Monster now Available for $14.99 on Digital Download Platforms

MONTREAL - Apr. 18, 2013 - Minority Media, an independent game development studio, today announced that its acclaimed adventure game Papo & Yo is now available for PC through Steam, Amazon and other direct download platforms. Originally released in 2012 for PlayStation®Network, the game, which was inspired by creator Vander Caballero’s childhood, features a boy, Quico, journeying through a magical world to save his best friend Monster from a terrible danger: himself. Monster is addicted to poisonous frogs, and eating one causes him to fly into a fiery rage from which no one is safe. As Quico, players will confront their conflicting emotions about Monster’s problem in a deeply touching, emotional video game experience. Starting today through April 28, Papo & Yo can be downloaded for PC for $13.50, a ten percent discount off of the game’s official price of $14.99. To purchase the new PC version from one of Minority’s publishing partners, please visit: http://www.weareminority.com/blog/save-10-percent-at-these-stores/. The new and enhanced PC version features improvements to the game’s graphics, controls, cinematics, and character animation, and adds Steam Big Picture Mode and multi-monitor support. To view the cinematic Papo & Yo trailer, visit http://youtu.be/mk3D1voP_iY. "Papo & Yo is my personal, emotional story told through a video game,” said Vander Caballero, Minority Creative Director. “For so many years I wanted to make a game about my father, who was an alcoholic, but wasn't sure if the industry was ready for something like this. When I eventually left EA, the help of the Canadian Media Fund, the Sony Pub Fund and the great team at Minority let me use my experience to start creating a magical world that would allow us to reach players emotionally, while they were exploring and solving puzzles. When Papo finally came out, the feedback we got made it clear that gamers want new types of experiences that go beyond killing the next enemy. Now we want to continue to bring fun games that evoke emotional experiences to as many people possible, starting today by sharing Papo with PC gamers!” For more information about Papo & Yo and Minority, visit www.weareminority.com/ or connect with Minority on Twitter: @we_are_minority.

Assets

About Papo & Yo Papo & Yo tells the story of a young boy named Quico and his brutish, mostly-friendly pal named Monster, whose most threatening feature is not his set of razor-sharp teeth, but his addiction to poisonous frogs. After devouring one, Monster catapults into a violent rampage from which no one, not even Quico, is safe. As Quico, players must navigate a magical, imagination-fueled world to save their beastly companion from the biggest danger of all: himself. Papo & Yo was released on PlayStation®Network (PSN) in August 2012, with releases on additional platforms planned for later dates. About Minority Minority is an independent game development studio based in Montreal, Quebec. Founded in 2010 by Vander Caballero, former Design Director at EA Montreal, through a partnership with Rezolution Pictures, an award-winning film and television production company, Minority is the home for passionate and experienced creators who could not stand to develop yet another shooter game. To learn more about the team, visit the official website at: www.weareminority.com. Official Website | Facebook | @We_Are_Minority

Media Contact TriplePoint, on behalf of Minority papo@triplepointpr.com

Groundbreaking Space MMO Vendetta Online Now Available on iPad

Samantha Qualls — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 18:00:23 +0000

Download Today for Seamless MMO Gameplay Between PC, Mac, Linux, Android, and iPad MILWAUKEE, Wis. - April 17, 2013 – Guild Software, the veteran independent gaming studio, today announced the release of Vendetta Online for the iPad. Now, iPad users can pilot their own spaceships through a vast interstellar gaming universe and compete in intense real-time PvP combat for a mobile PC-Grade MMO experience. Designed and developed by a dedicated handful of truly indie developers, Vendetta Online debuted in 2002.With regular updates and weekly expansions, players never bore of the gameplay as new challenges are continuously added. Passionate Vendetta Online fans are also encouraged to get involved with development through the Player Contribution Corps (PCC). The PCC gives enthusiastic players access to review, test and build new missions. Unlike other MMOs, Vendetta Online provides an unparalleled and interactive experience for both gameplay and expansion. Features of the iPad version of Vendetta Online include:

Grand scale – Explore 30 star systems, each containing 256 different sectors, adding up to 7680 regions of explorable space.
Twitch-based space combat – Utilize both tilt and on-screen touch inputs to control your starship.
True MMO experience on iPad - Unique interstellar missions and real-time PvP space combat.
Seamless gameplay between platforms - Play via PC, Mac, Linux, Android and iOS all in the same gaming universe.
Single player “Free Play” mode – Perfect your flying technique and enjoy minigames offline.

Vendetta Online costs $0.99, includes one month of free play, and requires a $1/month subscription. Download here or check out the trailer. Vendetta Online is only available on iPad2 or later, running at least iOS 5. About Guild Software Guild Software is an independent game developer based in Milwaukee, WI. Founded in 1998, the company has continually pursued the cutting edge in large-scale multiplayer environments. Developing a completely proprietary MMO engine from scratch, these efforts culminated in the successful launch of Vendetta Online ^TM. Guild software continues to expand upon Vendetta Online, using the title to further both the game and the NAOS Engine on which it is based, striving towards the next generation in unbounded, evolving worlds. Official Website | Facebook | @VendettaOnline

Assets Download a press kit here. Media Contact Samantha Qualls, TriplePoint for Guild Software Samantha@triplepointpr.com

Yodlee Financial Platform Awarded 50th Patent for Financial Gadgets

Tristan Kruth — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 12:00:54 +0000

Company's Innovative Technology Powers Services for Top Financial Institutions and Industry Innovators Globally REDWOOD CITY, Calif. - April 15, 2013 - Yodlee® today announced that it has been awarded its 50th technology patent, this one related to “financial gadgets” as part of its financial apps, or FinApps, distribution model. This patent announcement is a testament to Yodlee’s dynamic, cloud-based platform, which powers services for seven of the top 10 U.S. financial institutions and hundreds of other digital players, speeding innovation in banking and personal finance management (PFM ) by delivering interactive, personalized financial services based on real-time transactional data. “We have invested significantly in creating a unique, scalable technology platform that delivers both bank-level security and a flexible apps-based approach for quick innovation,” said Anil Arora, president and CEO of Yodlee. “We are thrilled with the rapid growth and adoption of Yodlee-powered services, and also with our 50th patent, which validates the forward-thinking DNA upon which Yodlee was founded.” 50th Patent Awarded The new “financial gadget” patent further differentiates Yodlee’s platform in how its technology collects, consolidates, and presents financial transactional data to consumers and companies via certified FinApps. A FinApp provides an expression of the user’s financial data for a specific purpose, such as expense management, debt analysis, investment tracking, credit monitoring, or tax filing (with partner H&R Block). FinApps bring an app-based approach to financial management, enabling a truly personalized experience based on wide array of money management needs, priorities, and objectives. Yodlee’s FinApps are certified by Yodlee for security and delivered seamlessly through customers’ digital experiences. The new patent covers a process in which a financial app is certified and selected by the user, receives the user’s financial data, and provides the user information (output). Users can revoke the application’s access to their data at any time. Only Yodlee provides an app-based approach to banking and finance via an open, dynamic data technology platform, powering innovation around the world. Yodlee aggregates accounts for more than 40 million consumers worldwide. The significance of that is in the power of the network. Not only does the data get better with every user through self-learning categorization algorithms and visibility into more unique account types, but it also enables operational efficiencies, attracts a strong developer ecosystem, and enables powerful social benchmarking through a big and diverse user population. About Yodlee & Yodlee Interactive Yodlee is the platform for financial innovation. Nearly 600 companies globally, including seven of the top 10 U.S. financial institutions, rely on Yodlee to power personalized financial apps and services for millions of consumers, driving retention, engagement, and revenue. Leveraging the industry’s largest data platform, Yodlee also delivers real-time insight into consumer behaviors to create more dynamic interactions – anywhere, anytime, on any device. Yodlee Interactive is focused on making the Yodlee platform available everywhere that value can be created by entrepreneurs, partners, and developers to build digital financial apps and services. As the architects of a new digital ecosystem, Yodlee Interactive optimizes the wisdom of the financial technology crowd to create, catalyze, and distribute innovations faster through an open and secure data API. Used by hundreds of companies, both small and large, Yodlee Interactive is the horsepower behind today’s coolest and most personalized digital experiences. Yodlee is headquartered in Redwood City, California. For more information, visit www.yodlee.com.

Media Contact Eddiemae Jukes, TriplePoint for Yodlee yodlee@triplepointpr.com (415) 955-8500

Build and Share Crazy Creations in Crazy Machines GoldenGears’ New Level Editor

Rahat Rashid — Thu, 11 Apr 2013 14:15:28 +0000

Rube Goldberg style puzzle game now allows users to play each other's original puzzles.

NEW YORK – April 11, 2013 – Viva Media, a New York based game publisher, announced the inclusion of a level editor to the award winning “Rube Goldberg” style puzzle game, Crazy Machines GoldenGears. The level editor allows players to create and share their own puzzles in a new thriving community. Crazy Machines GoldenGears is optimized for Android devices and available on any iPad, iPhone or iPod. Download Crazy Machines today for $2.99 on the iTunes Store, Google Play, or Amazon.com! Watch the trailer. iTunes Download link: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/crazy-machines-golden-gears/id499886449?ls=1&mt=8 Google Play link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.vivamedia.cmGGTHD Amazon.com link: http://www.amazon.com/Viva-Media-Crazy-Machines-Golden/dp/B00AC5Q39K In Crazy Machines GoldenGears, players choose from a large inventory of parts and pieces to creatively solve puzzles that require you to construct a contraption to meet the goal in a unique way. With dazzling visuals and attention to detail, the experiments and challenges are brought to life through the use of explosives, fire, physics and users' own intellect. Players can now take pride in creating some of their very own original puzzles that can be shared with the world along with scores and achievements. In Crazy Machines GoldenGears’ Level Editor, players can:

Choose from more than 60/parts items to build their creation
Use the same tools Viva’s level designers use to create Challenge levels
Master the versatility of Crazy Machines’ Level Editor
Build “real” puzzles or “self-solve” chain reactions
Share puzzles across various platforms with cross platform play
Earn Golden Gears for building and uploading, which can be redeemed to unlock more Challenge Levels
Filter through community puzzles by date, rating, popularity or alphabetical in an endless amount of content from a growing community!

Download Crazy Machines GoldenGears for your iOS, Android, or Amazon device today or try to LITE version of the app for free! Download the Press Kit here. About Viva Media Viva Media, founded in 1999, is dedicated to publishing, producing and developing high quality games on a variety of platforms including PC, Android, iOS, and other mobile devices. The New York based company focuses on delivering quality and is dedicated to publishing a wide array of interactive content of the highest standards on a variety of platforms. The company's collection of over 150 games boasts more than 100 awards for excellence in interactive publishing.

Media Contact Rahat Rashid, TriplePoint for Viva Media rrashid@triplepointpr.com (212) 730-9744

Twelve of Pocket Gamer’s Top 50 International Game Developers Use Cocos2d-x Game Engine

Diana Smith — Wed, 10 Apr 2013 05:00:43 +0000

Cross-platform open-source mobile game engine powers some of the most prestigious mobile developers worldwide

BEIJING - April 10, 2013 – Cocos2d-x, a leading cross-platform open-source 2D game engine, is powering games for a dozen of the 2013 PocketGamer.biz Top 50 Mobile Game Developers, including Disney Mobile, Gree, Konami, Zynga, Wooga, Gamevil and DeNA. The engine powers hit mobile games like Diamond Dash, City of Wonder, Zenonia 5 and Matching with Friends for Facebook, and offers tools for both established and independent developers alike. To date, the engine has been downloaded 300,000 times around the world since its release in 2010.

Cocos2d-x has been implemented both on a game-by-game basis and as a cornerstone in overall product strategies. Top developers such as Handy Games and PlayFirst are receiving direct support from the Cocos2d-x team as they make the engine the core of their mobile development. The engine powers even more games in China, where the project originated and is currently maintained. Cocos2d-x runs seven of the 10 top grossing iPhone apps in the Chinese App Store, and almost all top grossing Android games. “Cocos2d-x offers powerful tools for large established mobile studios, small developers just getting started, and everyone in between,” said Zhe Wang, chief maintainer of the Cocos2d-x engine. “The fact that Pocket Gamer has recognized so many of our partners as leaders in this ever growing and constantly changing industry demonstrates the engine’s success, and we look forward to working with our active community to further improve and refine our technology for mobile developers.”

About Cocos2d-x

The Cocos2d-x engine is the cross platform iteration of the popular Cocos2d engine previously released for iPhone. Cocos2d-x allows developers to code once in C++ and publish on multiple platforms, including iOS, Android, Windows Phone, and Blackberry. The engine is chiefly supported by CocoaChina, the Beijing-based international game developer and publisher behind the successful international mobile game titles, Fishing Joy and Fishing Joy 2. To learn more, visit http://cocos2d-x.org/.

Media Contact Tristan Kruth, TriplePoint for CocoaChina cocoachina@triplepointpr.com (415) 955-8500

Storm8 Sweetens Social Arcade Genre with Tile-Matching Game Fruit Mania on iOS

Diana Smith — Tue, 09 Apr 2013 13:00:00 +0000

Juicy adventure features new game modes never before seen in arcade puzzles on mobile

REDWOOD CITY, Calif. - April 9, 2013 - Mobile social gaming leader Storm8 today announced that tile-matching game Fruit Mania is ripe for release. Fruit Mania is the latest game from TeamLava, the Storm8 brand behind hit apps Bubble Mania and Jewel Mania. Following the exotic travels of protagonist Harrison the mouse, the game debuts two new modes for this arcade puzzle genre on mobile. Color Mode lets players focus on matching a particular type of fruit, while Digging Mode challenges players to navigate through the puzzle and unlock hidden charms. “From day one, Storm8 has focused on building a mobile social gaming network and developing multiple hits in every gaming category that we pursue,” said Storm8 CEO Perry Tam. “With the success of our first two social arcade titles, we knew that Storm8 players were ready for a third installment. Fruit Mania goes beyond traditional tile-matching gameplay that is sure to entertain fans of arcade puzzle games everywhere.” Available today for iPhone, iPad and iPod touch, Fruit Mania serves up hundreds of levels where players burst fruit clusters with a touch. Unlike common tile-matching games that pit players against the clock, Fruit Mania delivers specially designed puzzles that require strategic matching to solve. Each level also contains new obstacles to consistently challenge players. As a leader in leveraging social mechanics in mobile game design, Storm8 has developed Fruit Mania with social connectivity in mind by allowing players to compete against friends for top fruit-exploding scores. Today’s launch comes on the heels of Storm8’s largest presence yet at the Game Developers Conference (GDC) in San Francisco, where CEO Perry Tam revealed deeper insight into Storm8’s strategic growth. Storm8 is sweetening its multi-genre portfolio and leveraging its more than 10 million daily active users with today’s colorful tile-matching game release. To join Harrison in his fruit-bashing travels around the world, download Fruit Mania today for FREE on the App Store at https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/fruit-blast-mania/id596989627?ls=1&mt=8.

About Storm8, Inc. Founded in 2009, Storm8, Inc. is the leading mobile gaming network and developer of social games for iOS and Android. With more than 10 million daily active users and 400 million total downloads to date, Storm8 is also home to three innovative brands TeamLava, Shark Party and FireMocha. Under these brands, Storm8 has amassed a network of 200 million devices worldwide and continues to create engaging mobile social games that span genres – from casual arcade hits Bubble Mania and Jewel Mania, to social casual games like Pet Shop Story, Restaurant Story, Bakery Story and Dragon Story, to MMORPGs like World War, iMobsters and Vampires Live, and social casino games like Slots and Bingo. Storm8 is headquartered in Redwood City, California. For more information, please visit www.storm8.com. Trademarks Storm8, TeamLava, Shark Party, FireMocha and the Storm8 network games are trademarks of Storm8 and/or its affiliates. Other names may be trademarks of their respective owners.

Media Contact Diana Smith, TriplePoint for Storm8 Storm8@triplepointpr.com pr@storm8.com (415) 955-8500

Assets Download assets for Fruit Mania here.

Skydog Redefines the Home Network

Phillip Klugman — Tue, 09 Apr 2013 12:01:37 +0000

Cloud Networking Innovator PowerCloud Systems Begins New Era in Home Networking using Mobile to Control Connectivity in the Home

PALO ALTO, Calif. – Apr. 9, 2013 – PowerCloud® Systems, a pioneer in cloud networking, today unveiled Skydog™, a powerful, user-friendly approach to home networking and the management of family Internet use. Skydog is the first solution to deliver comprehensive visibility into and control over the home network, as well as the first to do so from any mobile device on any Internet connection. Launching today on Kickstarter at www.Skydog.com, and with first products available to backers in May 2013, Skydog is poised to disrupt the home networking market. “Skydog redefines how consumers view and make use of their home networks,” said Jeff Abramowitz, founder and CEO of PowerCloud Systems. “Our beta users have found that Skydog’s real-time visibility, management capabilities, and unparalleled ease-of-use enables them to save time, avoid frustration, and improve the performance of their connected home.” In recent years, home networks have become central to the connected lifestyles of adults, teens, tweens, and even young children. The vast array of Internet services and apps, coupled with a proliferation of connected devices, has challenged shared bandwidth in the home and – for many families – parental oversight of kids' online access. Skydog addresses these challenges in a powerful, yet intuitive and user-friendly manner. The innovation of Skydog lies in its patented cloud-powered platform. The product includes a powerful Wi-Fi router and a cloud-based application that can be accessed from any smartphone, tablet or PC, from any location. This allows home network administrators, who are often busy parents, to see and control home Internet usage, even when they are away. Skydog revolutionizes home networking in three key areas: Real-Time Visibility:

Monitors the network, including who is online, which devices are being used, what websites are being accessed and how much bandwidth is being used.
Sends text alerts when specified issues arise, such as an Internet outage, or a new guest seeking to access the network. Skydog can also speed diagnosis of problems and their resolution, such as checking Wi-Fi signals of devices or by remotely re-cycling the router.
Notifies the administrator or individual user when time limits on specified websites have been reached, even when the website is accessed across multiple devices.

Easy and Powerful Home Network Management:

Actively manages broadband usage by assigning priority bandwidth access to certain users, such as a work-at-home parent, or applications, such as a streamed movie to the family room television.
Enables time limits for specific website access by user, covering all devices, based on a calendaring system, such as school days versus weekends.
Provides firewalled guest access, granting an extra layer of security to the family network.
Skydog routers can be installed in remote locations, such as a parent's home or vacation property, and managed from the same mobile application.

Ease of Set-up and Use:

Installation is easy using the Skydog mobile companion. Skydog also works alongside existing routers, such as those providing back up or integrated with broadband gateways, to provide the additional functionality only available with Skydog.
Organizes attached devices by primary user to simplify actions like setting policies on application or Internet use.
Powerfully simple HTML5-based app for any mobile device allows anytime, anywhere visibility and control of users and devices on the home network.

By providing straightforward visibility and control over the home network, Skydog ushers in the next generation of home network management, enabling the entire household to save time and improve their connected experience. “The home network market has been static for a few years now, with the focus primarily going to ‘speeds and feeds,’” said Patrice Samuels, research analyst at Parks Associates. “While some in the industry have taken preliminary steps to offer advanced home networking features such as remote management and control, Skydog unlocks the black box that is the home network via their unique network management tools.” Skydog has undergone extensive in-home testing by more than 75 users with overwhelmingly positive feedback. “We are a family of six and actively use the Internet daily with iPhones, iPads and iPods. The greatest benefit to me is being able to see when and how much bandwidth is being used by whom,” said Tony T. from Indiana, one of Skydog’s 75 beta testers. “The ability to assign bandwidth by device or application is just critical.” “This has been a great experience with a groundbreaking, novel approach to home networking,” said Dawn H., another beta user from Illinois and a mother of three children. “I have shied away from messing with my home network for years, just doing what I had to when I had to because the whole process was so painful. This system is so delightful to use that I want to poke around just to see what’s going on.” The Origin of Skydog PowerCloud Systems is a spinout from the Palo Alto Research Center (PARC), the legendary subsidiary of Xerox responsible for the creation of Ethernet, the Graphical User Interface (GUI), and the laser printer among other innovations. The executive team is drawn from the leaders and innovators of cloud-based services and home networking, including Broadcom, NETGEAR, 3Com, Synchronoss and HP. The company’s cloud platform currently has more than 10 patents. While their platform can and does serve the enterprise market, the team recognized the unmet need for a mobile-based solution that could provide visibility and control over the home network, particularly for families. Kickstarter Details and Availability Interested users can see Skydog's Kickstarter offering here: www.Skydog.com. The Skydog router and the initial application are complete, with some first production units already in stock. “Early bird” backers will receive their Skydog home network package in May 2013 at a special pledge price of $79. Other backers can access Skydog's second production run for a pledge of $99 for one unit, or $179 for two Skydog units. There are no annual fees for Skydog or its mobile companion application. The Skydog home network package includes the mobile companion application available on any tablet, PC/Mac and smartphone and a high-performance and compact concurrent dual-band 802.11n wireless router with a built-in 5-port gigabit switch. Please follow Skydog on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/skydoghome) and Twitter (@Skydog). About PowerCloud Systems PowerCloud® Systems is a leader and industry pioneer for cloud-powered wireless networking. The company’s patented and award-winning CloudCommand™ technology was invented at the Palo Alto Research Center (PARC) and makes deploying and monitoring Wi-Fi networks and services easy for businesses with mobile customers. The CloudCommand platform is deployed worldwide in hotels, schools, retail chains, managed care facilities and other businesses seeking truly affordable, enterprise-grade Wi-Fi. Investors include PARC, Qualcomm Ventures, Javelin Venture Partners and Walden Venture Capital. More information can be found at www.powercloudsystems.com

Media Contact Andrew Karl, TriplePoint for Skydog akarl@triplepointpr.com 415-955-8500

Yodlee Platform Receives Recognition in 2013 Monarch Innovation Awards

Tristan Kruth — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 14:00:21 +0000

Showcasing the Transformative Power of the Yodlee Platform

REDWOOD CITY, Calif. – April 8, 2013 – Yodlee, the platform for financial innovation, today announced that it has received a 2013 Honorable Mention in the Industry Partner category for the sixth annual Monarch Innovation Awards by Barlow Research Associates. The Yodlee Platform is enabling financial institutions to deepen customer engagement and satisfaction through more personalized and holistic money management experiences across all digital channels, re-shaping how banks interact with their customers. The Monarch Innovation Awards highlight exciting new advancements within the financial services industry, recognizing the innovative works of both institutions and vendors who are taking risks and changing the financial landscape. “For 13 years, Yodlee has been at the forefront of creating innovative technology that solves real consumer problems, and anticipating what the next generation of consumers and financial providers will need and want,” said Anil Arora, President and CEO of Yodlee. “To see Yodlee recognized for taking so many risks and creating a highly innovative platform used today by hundreds of financial providers and millions of consumers around the world is both gratifying and thrilling.” "Yodlee has been providing value to the financial services industry for quite some time. We recognize Yodlee's efforts in enabling small business clients to manage their very complex financial service needs," said Rob Berini, Director at Deloitte Consulting, LLC, one judges for the Monarch Innovation Awards. The sixth annual Monarch Innovation Awards are being presented on April 5, 2013 via a live webcast at 11:00 a.m. CDT. Recipients include financial institutions and industry partners who provide the most innovative products to business customers and create/promote innovation within their organizations. About the Monarch Innovation Awards Developed to recognize innovation in the financial services industry, the Monarch Innovation Awards are unique and coveted because an independent jury evaluates the submissions. The judges quantitatively score each submission based on uniqueness, stickiness, dependability, ease of use and value. The award is named after the monarch to symbolize the rebirth that results when old formulas and methods give way to new ways of doing things. www.MonarchInnovationAwards.com About Barlow Research Associates, Inc. Barlow Research Associates, Inc. (BRAI) was founded in 1980 to provide research and consulting services to the banking industry in the U.S. and overseas. BRAI specializes in custom research, strategic consulting and syndicated research programs in small business, middle market and Internet banking. BRAI has a wide range of experience in many financial markets and knows the questions to ask and the issues to probe. www.BarlowResearch.com About Yodlee & Yodlee Interactive Yodlee is the platform for financial innovation. More than 600 companies globally, including 7 of the top 10 US financial institutions, rely on Yodlee to power personalized financial apps and services for millions of consumers, driving retention, engagement, and revenue. Leveraging the industry’s largest data platform, Yodlee also delivers real-time insight into consumer behaviors to create more dynamic interactions – anywhere, anytime, on any device. Yodlee Interactive is focused on making the Yodlee platform available everywhere that value can be created by entrepreneurs, partners, and developers to build digital financial apps and services. As the architects of a new digital ecosystem, Yodlee Interactive optimizes the wisdom of the financial technology crowd to create, catalyze, and distribute innovations faster through an open and secure data API. Used by hundreds of companies, both small and large, Yodlee Interactive is the horsepower behind today’s coolest and most personalized digital experiences. Yodlee is headquartered in Redwood City, California. For more information, visit www.yodlee.com.

Media Contact Tristan Kruth, TriplePoint for Yodlee tkruth@triplepointpr.com (415) 955-8500

Frima Studio and Image-in Sign Co-Production Agreement for Phoenix Park Animated Series

Zach Fuller — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 13:00:32 +0000

QUEBEC CITY - April 8, 2013 – Frima Studio is diving headfirst into the children’s animation industry, announcing a new co-production agreement on the eve of MipTV in Cannes, France. In the wake of their recent agreement to co-produce the Squids series with Moonscoop, Frima continues expanding their animation footprint with an ambitious new project, Phoenix Park. “This latest partnership agreement with Image-In continues the breakneck expansion of our animation capabilities,” said Christine Côté, Executive Producer at Frima Studio. “The series is exactly the sort of technically challenging and aesthetically lofty project our team is working to be known for worldwide.” Frima and Image-in will co-produce a series titled Phoenix Park that is aimed at 7-10 year olds and follows the comedic adventures of a gang of beach garbage. Throughout the 52 7-minute episodes, the loveable gang conquers obstacles on their quest towards Phoenix Park, the recycling center sure to save them from the incinerator. For the show, Frima’s experienced animators will produce a unique artistic style, blending 3D animated characters with live-action landscapes. "Frima’s animation team is a natural partner for the Phoenix Park project and we are eager to see the amazing work our collaboration can produce. With such talented teams behind them, our friendly garbage should have no trouble at all making their way to Phoenix Park," said Jean de Vivie, founder and producer at Image-in. With a second international co-production agreement in hand, Frima heads to MipTV to continue building partnerships with industry leading studios and turning out remarkable pieces of animation. For more on Frima Studio’s animation services head to http://frimastudio.com/services Assets Download the first screen and corporate logos from the press kit. About Frima Studio Frima is Canada’s largest independently owned game developer. Since 2003, the company has been developing world-class media including virtual worlds, social and web based games, console titles and mobile apps. Their services also include the animation and special effects expertise of Frima FX as well as the concept art development of Volta. In addition to working with world-renowned clients such as Electronic Arts, Activision, Warner Brothers and Ubisoft, Frima develops successful, original IP titles such as Nun Attack, Zombie Tycoon, A Space Shooter for 2 Bucks! and Lights, Camera, Party!. With over 350 artists and programmers in-house, Frima produces high-caliber products that are as remarkably outstanding artistically as they are technically. Official Website| Facebook | @FrimaStudio About Image-in Image-in is a Paris-based production company specializing in children programs, including animated series and live shows. We work with major French broadcasters such as TF1, Canal+ and Gulli. Zoobabu, our last series, aired in 8O countries abroad on networks such as The Disney Channel, Discovery Kids, Rai, TVE and Radio Canada. Get more info at www.image-in.cc

Media Contact Zach Fuller, TriplePoint zfuller@triplepointpr.com

BizBash Adding DoubleDutch’s Social Event App to Its LA and South Florida Conferences

Diana Smith — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 13:00:03 +0000

Leading event-planning media company deploys mobile conference technology to engage attendees, surface leads, and gather insight

NEW YORK & SAN FRANCISCO - April 8, 2013 – BizBash and DoubleDutch, two leaders in event-planning and event technology, today announced a partnership to power this year’s BizBash IdeaFest conferences in South Florida and Los Angeles with DoubleDutch’s industry-leading social event app, DoubleDutch Events. BizBash (http://www.bizbash.com), the premier source for event-planning news, ideas, and resources online, in print, and face-to-face, brought on DoubleDutch (http://doubledutch.me) to provide customizable tools that drive social engagement among attendees and exhibitors, reveal participant preferences, and generate actionable leads and insights based on real-time in-app behavioral data. Now, BizBash joins the ranks of UBM, Cisco, Eloqua, Roche and other leading international companies as a customer of DoubleDutch, the leading provider of mobile applications for enterprise events and conferences.

“DoubleDutch’s mobile technology revolutionizes the way organizers and attendees socialize, consume information, and market themselves -- which is exactly the kind of cutting-edge trends we want to showcase at IdeaFest,” said David Adler, CEO and Founder of BizBash. “BizBash IdeaFest attendees are passionate event professionals who know the industry very well,” said Lawrence Coburn, CEO, DoubleDutch. “DoubleDutch is proud to bring the most advanced mobile event technology to such an event-savvy crowd, and to help shape the future of tech in the events industry.” DoubleDutch and BizBash are at the forefront of an exploding market, with North American brands expected to report a 7.8 percent spending increase in event and experiential marketing in 2012 – more than double the growth-rate of the year prior. This trend is driven by an intensifying focus on interactive attendee experiences and a desire to drive sales and awareness, which the DoubleDutch-Bizbash partnership is primed to deliver to IdeaFest attendees and exhibitors. BizBash’s IdeaFest conferences in South Florida on April 10, 2013 and in LA on June 19, 2013 will bring together the top creative minds in the events industry to share best practices for meetings and conferences of all types. With the dedicated BizBash apps developed by DoubleDutch, thousands of attendees at this year’s events can check-in to sessions during the Event Innovation Forum, like and comment on speakers from the Event Leadership Institute Workshop Series, compete for the top spot on the app leaderboard, and interact digitally with a wealth of exhibitors. The DoubleDutch platform embraces a truly mobile-first approach, taking event apps beyond a simple list of panels or sessions. BizBash will use the app to turn that content into a seamlessly social experience, allowing attendees to check-in to sessions, bookmark favorite exhibitors, and meet other attendees in an organic and relevant way. With the IdeaFest app’s uniquely crafted layout, social functionality, and pre-conference installations, DoubleDutch puts every detail about the show just a tap or swipe away. As the events progress, BizBash can plan push notifications, promoted posts and more to unlock additional revenue from sponsors, and the organizer can track behavioral data to extract the most engaged business leads. The BizBash Ideafest apps for South Florida and LA are available on Android, iOS and HTML5. Attendees, and anyone else interested in following these events as they happen, can download their preferred version of the app here: http://ddut.ch/bizbash For more information on BizBash Florida, visit www.bizbash.com/bizbash-events/idea-fest/2013/florida/. For more information on BizBash Los Angeles, visit www.bizbash.com/bizbash-events/idea-fest/2013/los-angeles/. To learn more about how DoubleDutch can power your next event, visitwww.doubledutch.me.

About BizBash BizBash is an innovator and resource hub for the event and meeting industry with its Web site, magazines, and trade shows. Event organizers responsible for events such as White House state dinners and the Oscars, as well as conferences, trade shows, fund-raisers, and more use BizBash products regularly for ideas and best practices that can be implemented at their own events. Follow us at bizbash.com, @BizBash_News on Twitter, or facebook.com/bizbash. Official website| Facebook | @BizBash_News

About DoubleDutch DoubleDutch offers the most innovative, engaging mobile conference application in the events industry. DoubleDutch Events is designed for companies to thrill event attendees, surface leads, and host engaging, data-driven events with advanced mobile technology. Companies like Cisco, Roche, Wells Fargo, Lowe’s, and Bristol-Myers Squibb are using DoubleDutch at meetings and conferences worldwide. Get a branded mobile app to engage conference attendees today. Learn more at http://doubledutch.me/ or follow us on Twitter @doubledutch. Official website| Facebook | @DoubleDutch

Assets Download DoubleDutch's full press kit here and view BizBash's media kit here.

Media Contact TriplePoint PR for DoubleDutch doubledutch@triplepointpr.com (415) 955-8500 DoubleDutch Jen Hawkins jen@doubledutch.me (415) 449-5744

Pre-order Papo & Yo Now for PC, Receive 10% Discount and Free Soundtrack

Stephanie Palermo — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 13:00:19 +0000

PC Gamers Can Order Papo & Yo Before Launch on April 18 to Receive Discount and Free Soundtrack Download

MONTREAL – Apr. 5, 2013 – Independent game development studio Minority Media announced today that Papo & Yo, its critically-acclaimed emotional adventure game, is now available internationally for pre-order on Steam, Amazon and other PC-based direct download platforms. Starting today through the PC launch on April 18, 2013, gamers can pre-order the game to receive 10 percent off the $14.99 purchase price and a free copy of the wildly popular Papo & Yo original soundtrack (OST). For the full list of digital distributors, please visit http://www.weareminority.com/blog/pre-order-papo-yo-for-pc and pre-order Papo & Yo today. Previously exclusive to PlayStation®Network through Sony’s Pub Fund, Minority Media is excited to present their innovative interactive journey to a broader audience through PC. Papo & Yo has received widespread critical acclaim from mainstream media and a huge outpouring of deeply personal fan mail from all over the globe. Upgrades to Papo & Yo’s PC release include improved graphics and visual effects, improved controls, improved character animation and cinematics, more robust gameplay, full controller support for Steam Big Picture mode and multi-monitor support for a fantastic new player experience. The Papo & Yo soundtrack, which has been recognized by critics as a key element of the game’s unique, magical setting, will also be released later this month on iTunes and other popular digital distribution platforms for $5.99. Created by composer and sound designer Brian D'Oliveira of La Hacienda Creative, the soundtrack features traditional instruments and recordings taken directly from the jungles of South America. For a sneak peek, download a preview track titled “A Strange New World” from https://soundcloud.com/we_are_minority/a-strange-new-world. For more information about Papo & Yo and Minority, visit www.weareminority.com/ or connect with Minority on Twitter: @we_are_minority.

Assets

Media Contact TriplePoint, on behalf of Minority papo@triplepointpr.com

Game Connection America Concludes with Record-Breaking Attendance, Contrast Wins Selected Projects Award

Erin Fan — Thu, 04 Apr 2013 16:35:23 +0000

Compulsion Games Earns Top Recognition Among 15 of the Year’s Most Notable Indie Development Projects

SAN FRANCISCO – April 4, 2013 – Game Connection America 2013 concluded another successful event taking place in San Francisco from March 25 – 27. A total of 1,650 attendees including 206 exhibitors and 240 certified buyers converged on the Sir Francis Drake Hotel to engage in concentrated networking, meetings, and lively conversations. The Meeting Application saw a total of 7,642 meetings confirmed. Additionally, the [a]List Summit provided tracks of panels and lectures that covered challenges and opportunities facing the games industry. “We’ve seen a tremendous amount of growth year over year, and Game Connection America was no exception,” states Pierre Carde, CEO, Connection Events. “Our Meeting Application continues to excel at enabling executives to easily and efficiently set up meetings in an environment conducive to getting business done, and this most recent event has set the bar even higher. As we conclude another successful show, we look forward to continuing the tradition with more events scheduled in Asia (May 28-29) and Europe (December 3-5). The first will create an international environment where East meets West in business. The latter will feature the familiar successful business formula of back-to-back meetings scheduled with the streamlined online meeting application, networking, and an opportunity to improve skills in a lively environment.” Game Connection is also pleased to announce that Montreal-based Compulsion Games’ puzzle platformer Contrast was awarded Best Project 2013 in the Microsoft-sponsored Selected Projects indie game competition. Chosen from 15 nominated game developers based on innovation and market potential, Contrast was given top recognition by The Game Connection Advisory Board and acknowledged by Sony Computer Entertainment America for its achievements in game creativity and innovation. Compulsion Games will receive a development kit, strategic advice, and support from Microsoft Studios. As part of the indie developer support offered by Sony Computer Entertainment America, the team will also receive a PlayStation development kit and technical support for the launch of Contrast on the PlayStation Network. "Wow! I'm humbled, first with the nomination, especially in the company of so many amazingly creative teams. And second, on behalf of the entire team at Compulsion, we are truly honored that CONTRAST was identified as the Best Selected Project by Game Connection America," said Guillaume Provost, creative director and founder at Compulsion Games. "It's been a four-year long journey - from being on my own with a simple idea scribbled on a piece of paper in a cafe in Lyon, to the small and passionate team of eight amazing people who all fell in love with the project and shared their craft to propel CONTRAST to where it is today. We are so proud of this project and our accomplishments. The recognition of our hard work from organizations like Game Connection is greatly appreciated and we continue to be amazed by the incredibly positive response from the media and especially the public." Contrast was chosen for their approach to combining 3D and 2D platforming. Set in a world reminiscent of the roaring twenties, the game challenges players to navigate the 3D world with strategic use of 2D “shadow” form. The game also tasks players with manipulating light to discover new things in the world in the form of shadows. Contrast is originally scored drawing inspiration from early twentieth-century jazz music. The title is set for launch in Spring 2013 for PC on Steam. The award ceremony, sponsored by Microsoft, took place on Tuesday March 26 Game Connection America. For more information on this contest and the nominees, please visit http://www.game-connection.com/gameconn/content/selected-projects-game-connection-america-2013. Other award winners from Game Connection include the recipients of the Game Connection and [a]list daily Marketing Awards. The winners are:

Best Broadcast Campaign - ichi for THQ with Metro: Last Light
Best Digital Campaign - TBWA/Gamelab for McDonald’s China with Angry Birds Magic in McDonald’s
Best Print Campaign - Ayzenberg Group for Microsoft with Contre Jour pop-up press kit
Best Experiential Campaign - iam8bit for Bethesda Softworks with Dishonored “Boyle Party”
Best Mobile Campaign - Midnight Oil Creative for Square Enix with Tomb Raider Scavenger Hunt
Best PR Campaign - Midnight Oil Creative for Ubisoft with Far Cry 3
Best Social Media Campaign - Sandbox Strategies for Activision with Activision’s Family Game Summit
Best Original Content Campaign - Armed Mind for Activision Blizzard with Call of Duty: Black Ops II “Rightful King” Kindle short story
Best Overall Marketing Campaign - Midnight Oil Creative for Activision with Skylanders Giants
Best Marketing Team of the Year - Midnight Oil Creative

Game Connection Asia, taking place in Shanghai, China, has been dated for May 28 – 29. To learn more about the event, visit: http://www.game-connection.com/gameconn/content/badgeprices-asia-2013 Game Connection Europe, taking place in Paris, has been dated for December 3 – 5. To learn more about the event, visit: http://www.game-connection.com/gameconn/content/badgeprices-europe-2013 For more information about Game Connection:

Download the Game Connection America press kit
Visit the website: www.game-connection.com
Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/Game.Connection.Official.Page
Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/The_GameCo

To find out more about Compulsion Games and Contrast, please visit www.contrastgame.com. About Game Connection Game Connection is an international conference that gives video game industry professionals the opportunity to interact, network, and promote their products, services, and expertise. Since 2001, key players from the games industry gather three times per year—in Europe, the US, and Asia—to meet, do business together, connect with new industry professionals, and socialize in a lively environment where business gets done. In 2011, Game Connection launched a program of conferences, workshops, and master classes. As part of this program, experts of arts, game design, programming, production, communication, and marketing presented the latest innovation for consoles, handheld, browser games, social media, digital, and mobile stores. For more information, visit: www.game-connection.com. About Connection Events Connection Events is a creator of opportunities, resources and results in the Games Industry. Connection Events specializes in the production of services and events aimed at games industry professionals, with over 800 business clients in more than 56 countries. Core Connection Events services include Game Connection and Game Connection Master Classes. For more information, visit: www.connection-events.com. Media Contact Andrew Karl, TriplePoint 415-955-8500 akarl@triplepointpr.com