You can almost set it like clockwork: another Sonic game at least every year. This fall Sonic returns to racing in Sonic Rivals 2 for the PlayStation Portable. Is the Hedgehog racer worth a run?

First off, let me break it down as to what this game features: a story mode and racing mode. In race mode, all you do is pick one of eight characters and battle it out through a bunch of different levels. This is essentially what the game is all about - you racing against opponents. It’s a fun and engaging experience.

The same can not be said for the story mode which is poor to say the least. Sonic games aren’t about the story at all, they're about speed and moving as fast as you can through a level.

In the story mode, you pick one of four teams to race with, with each team featuring two racers. There are several issues with this, the first being the game's combat. There is too much of a focus on combat and not nearly as much on the actual racing.

In regards to combat, once you get close to an opponent you can press the circle button to pass or jump over them. You also can acquire items throughout the level to utilize in order to attack your opponent. In addition, characters are given unique abilities if they collect enough rings in a board. This is unfair to say the least as some characters are given a significant advantage over others like Tails's ability to fly compared to Silver’s power.

The focus of combat in the races continues when you’ll have to face off against the other characters in a one-on-one battle. To put it mildly, it’s not the most exhilarating experience because whoever gets hit twice loses.

That is followed up by another race and then you come to a boss battle. The ending battle features the same kind of gameplay that was popular in the original Sonic series in the 90’s. The difference here is that you’re also battling your rival in the boss fight to be the first one to hit the boss. The focus on battling your rival and a boss at the same time is utterly irritating to say the least.

That’s not to say that Sonic Rivals 2 doesn’t have its fun parts. The race mode isn’t bad as stated above because it’s not focused on the rival aspect.

Also, the graphics in Sonic 2 are phenomenal particularly for a handheld game. The game moves incredibly fast. In fact you do get the sense of speed you’re supposed to. In addition, the characters and environments explode off the screen.

While that is nice, the story and sound are quite poor. The game features typical bland Sonic music and horrible voice acting.

Overall Sonic Rivals 2 isn’t a terrible game, the problem is that it focuses too much on battle. In fact, the racing is pretty fun and you do really get a feel for the speed and pace of the game and it’s worth a run through.

Publisher: Sega
Developer: Sega
Release: Nov 13, 2007
MSRP: $39.99
Everyone

It’s difficult to tell if Aqua Teen Hunger Force Zombie Ninja Pro-Am is trying to be a terrible game or just is one. I guess it doesn’t really matter because you should likely avoid this title at all costs.

Just like the television series and movie that subsequently followed, Zombie Ninja Pro-Am meanders around without much of a purpose. In fact, the designer’s goal isn’t focused at all on the game clearly; instead it’s more about screwing with the player's head. I guess that's to be expected with Aqua Teen.

From here, you’re put into one of three games. There is a golf portion which is fully simplistic: all you do is turn and push X to time the power and accuracy of the swing. This is entirely completed with the X button.

Following your hit, you’ll enter the second portion of the game where you’re forced to slowly run down the course. This part is essentially a beat em' up as you’ll meet numerous characters from the show and other such things you have to kill before being able to hit the ball again. You carry a variety of items to kill enemies with including your club, a sword, guitar, spray and more. On the way, you can also pick up various power-ups that can be utilized in the golfing and racing portions of the game.

Once in awhile, you’ll enter the third aspect of the game which is three races with golf carts against the alien frat boys. This like every other aspect of the game: it's extremely simple as there are missiles and turbo available throughout.

The combination of all this is a terrible game through and through. The graphics are horrifying with ghastly frame rates and repetitive enemies they throw at you. The controls as mentioned are very simplistic and the gameplay is short. There are just 12 levels in the game and it shouldn’t take you more than a handful of hours to complete the experience if you are really willing to put yourself through it.

About the only thing worthy in this game is the voice acting which is spot on; the characters from the show are in here including the Cybernetic Ghost of Christmas Past. He is joined by the Commentator Guy, ESPN’s Scott Van Pelt. Overall I’ve got to say that the dialogue can be humorous at times.

The only other benefit in the game particularly for fans of the series is the 12 minutes of cameo clips of characters and the four full episodes, including one that has never been aired.

In the end, Aqua Teen Hunger Force Zombie Ninja Pro-Am appears to be more an attempt by the designers to play a prank on those foolish enough to buy the game by giving them a lesson in tedium. Pure and simple, this game has absolutely no benefit unless you enjoy torturing yourself.

According to the Cumberland Times, a Frostburg State University students was arrested after comments he made on Xbox Live.

The 19-year old reportedly mentioned to fellow Call of Duty 4 players a threat of shooting up the school. Apparently the student went into much detail about how he would even do it.

Police followed up with the reports by working with Microsoft and Xbox Live to track down the suspect through his internet address.

Following his arrest, he reportedly told investigators he was joking and had no intention of following through with the threat. He could face up to a year in jail and/or a $5,000 fine.

The game Rock Band on the Xbox 360 landed a patch soon after it's release on November 20th to allow players to use the Guitar Hero III controller in the game. The same can not be said for the PlayStation 3 version.

According to word from Harmonix, Activision is blocking the patch for the Sony console. The Harmonix team claims they completed the patch two weeks ago and was scheduled to release on December 4th, however Activision objected, stopping the release.

At this point, it appears to be a matter of Activision backing down to the pressure.

Hot Shots Golf 5 has already been out in Japan since the summer. Sony finally confirmed a timetable for a release in the U.S., March 2008.

No official date was given by Clap Hanz, the developer of Hot Shots, although they did give a run down of features including a new shot system, online play, bigger courses, new courses, more detailed putting, downloadable content and of course the crazy characters you expect.

It's approaching almost a month since the Writers Guild of America, for television, film and radio, has gone on strike. While writers are waiting for demands, some are turning their attention towards a new option: video games.

Variety magazine recently talked to one such writer, who commented that "It has been an interesting shift. The literary agents are now saying, 'Why don't we get our clients over there during the strike?' even though in the past they thought the money wasn't good enough or the work is too demanding."

Video game writers as a whole make far less than their screenwriter counterparts. This is due in large part to the fact that game writers are not in unions.

This new interest in games for writers is making the WGA consider adding them to the union. So much so, in fact, that they even plan to feature an award at the Writers Guild Awards this spring.

"By recognizing the skill and craft of video game writing, the Writers Guilds intend to raise the profile of these writers so that they can get WGA contracts and benefits for this work," WGA West president Patric Verrone said.

Katamari creator Keita Takahashi mentioned creativity in games in a recent interview by saying:

"Defining the word creativity is difficult in a sense...I do feel many games do lack the wow factor in a sense. Something that you feel very surprised by.

"I feel that the setting (Katamari) is normal for me. There's nothing surreal about it. I think if Katamari is considered so creative then to me it feels like the videogame industry in general has lost its direction."

To celebrate the five year anniversary of Xbox Live on November 15, Microsoft will be giving away a free game download to active members who are online between 12:01 P.M. Pacific time on the 15 to 11:59 p.m. Pacific on November 16.

Everyone will be given the chance to land Carcossonne between this time except for those in Korea who will get Hexic 2.

In addition, Microsoft has announced that they will be giving away 500 free Microsoft Points to all members who joined the XBL service in 2002.

Xbox Live Arcade will be releasing two more games on Wednesday, specifically Shrek-N-Roll and Screwjumper.

The two releases will mark the 100 game to come to the service. Both will retail for 800 points or $10 and be available on November 14.

Screwjumper has players fall through mines. On the way, the goal is to blow them up while escaping before the entire building collapses. Meanwhile, Shrek-N-Roll has players work through tilt-controlled puzzles.

Next week is Xbox 360 and Live Arcade's two year anniversary and Chair Entertainment's Undertow is set to release on November 21.

Microsoft announced today that an Xbox 360 Family Timer will be coming next month.

The timer is expected to be a feature in the dashboard update and will allow parents to restrict the time kids play games or watch movies, down to per day or per week limitations.

Microsoft has given further details about the timer and states that it will warn a gamer before time is up and once the clock runs out, the console automatically turns off.

Activision has announced a national Guitar Hero III tournament in to promote Guitar Hero: III Legends of Rock.

The contest is available to contestants 16-years and up and the top winners at each stop on the tour will win $100 gift card to Hot Topic. The two finalists will get a chance to win a 2008 Pontiac G5.

The contest will be making it's way to:

11/8 Orland Park, IL (Chicago) Orland Square
11/12 Paramus, NJ (New York/Newark) Garden State Plaza
11/15 Buford, GA (Atlanta) Mall of Georgia
11/19 Austin, TX Barton Creek
11/26 Phoenix, AZ Metro Center Mall
11/29 Las Vegas, NV Meadows Mall
12/3 Northridge, CA (Los Angeles) Northridge Fashion Center
12/5 San Francisco, CA San Francisco Center

For more details, contact the Hot Topic store that'll be holding the event.

The sixaxis feature is once again implemented in the series, but its use is essentially pointless. You can do it for spin moves by tipping the controller left or right or on defense for hands, but there is no reason to when you can just use the right analog stick.

If the gameplay isn't enough to dissuade you, the lack of options is also problematic. There is no franchise mode to speak of in NBA 08 and players are given a very limited single season option. This means no drafting, team management, etc., which is something every other game on the market has had for years.

Other options aside from single game and single season are online single game and mini-games. The mini-games are the same three you've seen in the Sony series for years now: own the court, three point challenge and skills challenge. Aside from a single online game, the only other addition that is worth noting is the NBA replay option which is available online. These are challenges in which you try to relive some of the best plays of last year. To say the least, this mode doesn't provide much more depth to the game except the ability to earn credits which can be turned into improving a created player and/or unlocking meaningless items.

Last, but not least is the commentary. Unlike last year's version, which had none except for an announcer, NBA 08 features Kevin Calabro and Mark Jackson. They do an average job, but are often repetitive and add little to the experience.

In Jeanne D’Arc, players take on the role of the French heroine during the 100 year war between the French and English. The role-playing game by Level-5 brings an interesting and unique look to the historic story when it arrives next month on the PlayStation Portable handheld.

Sony recently sent along a preview copy for us to check out before the anticipated August 21 release date. As stated above, players take on the role of Jeanne D’Arc or more commonly known stateside as Joan of Arc along with two of her partners Liane and Roger.

In the game, Jeanne heads home to Domremy where she finds the town burnt to the ground. In the battle that follows, Jeanne turns into a warrior who has even more power to take down enemies and take on damage.

Following the devastation by English forces, Jeanne’s motive is clear to return freedom to France. During her journey, Jeanne meets plenty of other companions including Colet, Bertrand and La Hire. In the actual game, players will make decisions on which warriors will battle in each stage.

Clearly the game, Jeanne D’Arc is focused on conflicts between the French and English during this time, but equally wants to expand on the story with mythical creatures, magic and more. The combination seems to work well.

In addition, the gameplay is solid taken straight from the likes of Final Fantasy Tactics. The turn-based RPG has you battle it out in a chess style grid. Experience and leveling are gained both during and after battles. In addition, players are able to utilize weapons, spells and other such items in battle as well. The game is broken down into stages and each one has a goal which must be accomplished in a certain number of turns, along with conditions for failure.

Two interesting additions to the battle sequence are the burning aura and unified guard. Aura is on offense and allows characters to unleash a powerful attack if a glowing circle appears on-screen and you attack from that location.

Meanwhile, guard is revealed when two characters are close to each other on the grid. Often times it will result in a miss or at least lessen the attack on you. It’s obvious from these inclusions that the game is focused on teamwork more than individual play.

One other notable inclusion is the armlet that Jeanne utilizes. One time per battle and possibly more, the armlet gives Jeanne the chance to go twice or use special attacks.

Meanwhile, players will gain spirit affinities in one of three areas. This can help and hurt you depending on the affinity of your enemy. Various skill stones build power in specific affinities which in turn can determine the path your character takes. Purple stones are skills, while red are for more powerful abilities. These stones are only accessible for swordsmen. Meanwhile, two more stones are available to anyone in the green and blue. Green gives you magic, while blue boosts your statistics.

Sticking with the stones, players are able to accumulate stones in-game either by buying, finding or acquiring them from defeated opponents. It’s an interesting inclusion that adds some depth to the experience.

As for the graphics, they are stunning with cel-shading in-game and terrific cutscenes between battles.

Based on what we’ve seen so far, Jeanne D’Arc definitely will keep RPG fans on the PlayStation Portable happy. With what is rumored to be a 40-hour adventure, clearly stunning graphics both in-game and cut-scenes and solid gameplay, Jeanne D’Arc is worth a gander when it hits shelves in August. ]]> Sun, 29 Jul 2007 17:20:34 -0500 Brian Mohr http://www.gamebump.com/go/three_more_classic_games_come_to_wii http://www.gamebump.com/go/three_more_classic_games_come_to_wii http://www.gamebump.com/go/three_more_classic_games_come_to_wii# This article was originally published on Gaming Horizon, GameBump's predecessor. Certain formatting, imaged, and embedded content may have been lost in the transition process.

Keeping with the tradition, Nintendo released three more classic titles on the Wii's Virtual Console Monday.

The biggest of the releases is the NES Mario title, Super Mario Bros. 2 for 500 Wii Points. In addition, the SEGA Genesis sequel to Ecco the Dolphin entitled Ecco: The Tides of Time has made its way to the console for 800 Wii Points. Rounding out the group is the TurboGrafx16 adventure shooter Dragon Spirit.]]> Tue, 03 Jul 2007 01:03:00 -0500 Brian Mohr http://www.gamebump.com/go/activision_announces_eight_more_tracks_for_gh_rocks_the_80s http://www.gamebump.com/go/activision_announces_eight_more_tracks_for_gh_rocks_the_80s http://www.gamebump.com/go/activision_announces_eight_more_tracks_for_gh_rocks_the_80s# This article was originally published on Gaming Horizon, GameBump's predecessor. Certain formatting, imaged, and embedded content may have been lost in the transition process.

Activision has announced an additional eight tracks for the upcoming Guitar Hero title, Guitar Hero Encore: Rocks the 80's.

The latest songs to be included are:Hold On Loosely by .38 SpecialNo One Like You by ScorpionsOnly a Lad by Oingo BoingoRadar Love by White LionBallroom Blitz by KrokusThe Warrior by ScandalWhat I Like About You by The RomanticsWrath Child by Iron Maiden

Guitar Hero Encore: Rocks the 80's is expected to release for the PlayStation 2 on July 17.]]> Tue, 12 Jun 2007 23:36:00 -0500 Brian Mohr http://www.gamebump.com/go/wii_releases_100th_virtual_console_game http://www.gamebump.com/go/wii_releases_100th_virtual_console_game http://www.gamebump.com/go/wii_releases_100th_virtual_console_game# This article was originally published on Gaming Horizon, GameBump's predecessor. Certain formatting, imaged, and embedded content may have been lost in the transition process.

Nintendo released four more Virtual Console titles today. The release of the games marks the 100th game to make its way to the Wii Shopping Channel.

The titles making their way to the Wii are highlighted by the NES role-playing title, Zelda II - The Adventure of Link for 500 Wii Points. One other NES title, the action game Milon's Secret Castle is also available for 500 Wii Points. In addition, the TurboGrafx16 shooter Dead Moon made it's way to the Wii for 600 Wii Points. Rounding out the group is Sega Genesis action title ToeJam & Earl in Panic on Funkotron. ToeJam & Earl will retail for 800 Wii Points.]]> Mon, 04 Jun 2007 22:27:00 -0500 Brian Mohr http://www.gamebump.com/go/mad_tracks_hits_xbox_live_arcade http://www.gamebump.com/go/mad_tracks_hits_xbox_live_arcade http://www.gamebump.com/go/mad_tracks_hits_xbox_live_arcade# This article was originally published on Gaming Horizon, GameBump's predecessor. Certain formatting, imaged, and embedded content may have been lost in the transition process.

Xbox Live Arcade will add a new game on Wednesday in the form of the racer from Load Inc. entitled Mad Tracks.

The title which will retail for 800 Microsoft Points or $10 features six races, 12 cars and nine mini-games. Included in the races are various power-ups like EMPs, rockets, freezer and oil drop. The Xbox Live release will feature Live multiplayer for up to four people and include 12 achievements.]]> Tue, 29 May 2007 23:32:00 -0500 Brian Mohr http://www.gamebump.com/go/three_more_come_to_the_virtual_console http://www.gamebump.com/go/three_more_come_to_the_virtual_console http://www.gamebump.com/go/three_more_come_to_the_virtual_console# This article was originally published on Gaming Horizon, GameBump's predecessor.

Nintendo once again this week released classic games for the Wii's Virtual Console.

Three new titles were released including the sim-action title Act Rasier, originally from the SNES. It will retail for 800 Wii Points. In addition, the Sega Genesis platformer Kid Chameleon also made an appearance for 800 Wii Points. Rounding out the group is the TurboGrafx16 action title J.J. & Jeff for 600 Wii Points.

All three games are now available on the Virtual Console.]]> Tue, 29 May 2007 23:27:00 -0500 Brian Mohr http://www.gamebump.com/go/devil_may_cry_4_gets_delayed http://www.gamebump.com/go/devil_may_cry_4_gets_delayed http://www.gamebump.com/go/devil_may_cry_4_gets_delayed# This article was originally published on Gaming Horizon, GameBump's predecessor. Certain formatting, imaged, and embedded content may have been lost in the transition process.

Originally scheduled to release this fall, Devil May Cry 4 has been delayed slightly.

According to a report by Eurogamer, Capcom has confirmed that the game will be releasing in the first quarter of 2008. No reason has been given for the delay, although the title is scheduled to see a multiplatform release on the PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 and PC. Some reports have even surfaced that the game may see a January 15th, 2008 release, although that hasn't been confirmed yet.

In Devil May Cry 4, players will take on the role of a new character, Nero and will be able to use his devil bringer abilities. Of course, better graphics will be included as well.]]> Thu, 24 May 2007 00:55:00 -0500 Brian Mohr http://www.gamebump.com/go/sony_releases_ps3_firmware_18 http://www.gamebump.com/go/sony_releases_ps3_firmware_18 http://www.gamebump.com/go/sony_releases_ps3_firmware_18# This article was originally published on Gaming Horizon, GameBump's predecessor. Certain formatting, imaged, and embedded content may have been lost in the transition process.

Sony has announced that a new firmware update is coming to the PlayStation 3, 1.80.

The official release occurred at midnight on May 24th and features better graphics for PlayStation 2, PlayStation One and DVD movies with the output of 1080p. This means the PlayStation 3 will utilize the HDTVs for these various formats.

In addition, 1.8 in conjunction with the 3.5 firmware update on the PlayStation Portable will allow for remote play through the PS3. The PSP will now be able to read content including music, videos, images and more from a hotspot anywhere in the world.]]> Thu, 24 May 2007 00:44:00 -0500 Brian Mohr http://www.gamebump.com/go/activision_announces_some_guitar_hero_80s_songs http://www.gamebump.com/go/activision_announces_some_guitar_hero_80s_songs http://www.gamebump.com/go/activision_announces_some_guitar_hero_80s_songs# This article was originally published on Gaming Horizon, GameBump's predecessor. Certain formatting, imaged, and embedded content may have been lost in the transition process.

Activision announced some tracks that'll be included in the upcoming PlayStation 2 title, Guitar Hero Encore: Rocks the 80's.

According to the publisher, the title will feature 30 tracks from the 80's including these:18 and Life, by Skid Row Bathroom Wall, by Faster PussycatLonely is the night, by Billy SquierNothing But a Good Time, by PoisonPlay With Me, by ExtremeShaken, by Eddie MoneySynchronicity II, by Police

Other songs already announced that'll be featured in the game include:I Wanna Rock, by Twisted SisterI Ran, by Flock of SeagullsRound and Round, by RattI Want Candy, by Bow Wow WowMetal Health, by Quiet RiotHoly Diver, by DioHeat Of the Moment, by Asia

Guitar Hero Encore: Rocks the 80's is expected to release on July 17.]]> Tue, 22 May 2007 01:44:00 -0500 Brian Mohr http://www.gamebump.com/go/gta_iv_special_edition_announced http://www.gamebump.com/go/gta_iv_special_edition_announced http://www.gamebump.com/go/gta_iv_special_edition_announced# This article was originally published on Gaming Horizon, GameBump's predecessor. Certain formatting, imaged, and embedded content may have been lost in the transition process.

Rockstar has announced that they will be releasing a special edition of Grand Theft Auto IV when it releases in October in North America.

The special edition is ready for preorder and will retail for $89.99. Aside from the game, the edition will come in a metal deposit box and include an art book, CD soundtrack featuring music from the game along with a keychain and duffel bag.

Grand Theft Auto IV will release for the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 on October 16 in the U.S.]]> Tue, 22 May 2007 01:35:00 -0500 Brian Mohr http://www.gamebump.com/go/boom_boom_rocket_coming_to_xbl_wednesday http://www.gamebump.com/go/boom_boom_rocket_coming_to_xbl_wednesday http://www.gamebump.com/go/boom_boom_rocket_coming_to_xbl_wednesday# This article was originally published on Gaming Horizon, GameBump's predecessor. Certain formatting, imaged, and embedded content may have been lost in the transition process.

Microsoft has announced that Bizarre Creations Boom Boom Rocket will make its way to the Xbox Live Arcade early Wednesday morning.

The music/rhythm game will retail for 800 Microsoft Points or $10 and feature single and multiplayer modes. The singleplayer modes include normal and speed. There are also two multiplayer modes battle and endurance as well as a practice mode. In addition there is a freestyle mode featured that will allow players to create a fireworks show by pounding on the buttons.]]> Tue, 10 Apr 2007 21:21:00 -0500 Brian Mohr http://www.gamebump.com/go/microsoft_announces_new_xbox_360 http://www.gamebump.com/go/microsoft_announces_new_xbox_360 http://www.gamebump.com/go/microsoft_announces_new_xbox_360# This article was originally published on Gaming Horizon, GameBump's predecessor. Certain formatting, imaged, and embedded content may have been lost in the transition process.

Microsoft has plans to release a new black, limited edition Xbox 360 that will be pumped up.

The system will officially be called the Xbox 360 Elite and will include a 120 GB hard drive and HDMI.  In addition, the Elite console will run cooler than the regular Xbox 360. The system will feature the case, controller and Live headset, all in black.

Of course, this all comes at a price of $479. Once the limited edition Elite black consoles sell out. Microsoft plans to release the 120 GB hard drive and HDMI in the standard Premium Xbox 360 package. Currently there is no confirmation when the Elite systems will officially hit stores, but it is believed to be later this spring or early summer.]]> Wed, 21 Mar 2007 21:59:00 -0500 Brian Mohr http://www.gamebump.com/go/activision_announces_guitar_hero_80s_edition1 http://www.gamebump.com/go/activision_announces_guitar_hero_80s_edition1 http://www.gamebump.com/go/activision_announces_guitar_hero_80s_edition1# This article was originally published on Gaming Horizon, GameBump's predecessor. Certain formatting, imaged, and embedded content may have been lost in the transition process.

Activision has officially announced a sequel to Guitar Hero, Guitar Hero 80's Edition.

No details have been given on the songs to be included in the game. It is however scheduled to release on June 13th for the PlayStation 2 for $39.99. Hopefully we'll see this also release for download on the Xbox 360 after Guitar Hero II comes out in early April.]]> Tue, 20 Mar 2007 23:24:00 -0500 Brian Mohr http://www.gamebump.com/go/turtles_lands_on_xbla_today http://www.gamebump.com/go/turtles_lands_on_xbla_today http://www.gamebump.com/go/turtles_lands_on_xbla_today# This article was originally published on Gaming Horizon, GameBump's predecessor. Certain formatting, imaged, and embedded content may have been lost in the transition process.

With the new movie coming out in the near future, Ubisoft has decided to release Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Arcade Game on Xbox Live Arcade.

The port of the coin-operated arcade title officially released on Wednesday and costs 400 Microsoft Points or $5. The game allows up to four players to play cooperatively over Xbox Live and includes 12 achievements, leaderboards and voice support.]]> Wed, 14 Mar 2007 23:47:00 -0500 Brian Mohr http://www.gamebump.com/go/new_psp_on_the_way http://www.gamebump.com/go/new_psp_on_the_way http://www.gamebump.com/go/new_psp_on_the_way# This article was originally published on Gaming Horizon, GameBump's predecessor. Certain formatting, imaged, and embedded content may have been lost in the transition process.

Sony's UK managing editor Ray Maguire has confirmed that the company plans to come out with a second remodeled version of the PlayStation Portable.Maguire told a crowd yesterday that the current PlayStation Portable is just the first iteration. He went on to say the company plans to make the system smaller and lighter in the future. One thing that won't change though is the screen as Maguire claims that it will not be affected.

Some rumors have surfaced that the new system may be releasing within the year, feature a touch screen, built in camera and more, although Sony has not confirmed anything at this time.]]> Tue, 13 Mar 2007 23:25:00 -0500 Brian Mohr http://www.gamebump.com/go/three_more_hit_the_virtual_console http://www.gamebump.com/go/three_more_hit_the_virtual_console http://www.gamebump.com/go/three_more_hit_the_virtual_console# This article was originally published on Gaming Horizon, GameBump's predecessor. Certain formatting, imaged, and embedded content may have been lost in the transition process.

Another week has gone by and that means more titles have come to the Nintendo Wii's Virtual Console.

This week the titles include Tecmo Bowl for 500 Wii points or $5, Sonic Spinball for 800 Wii points or $8 and Double Dungeons for 600 Wii points or $6. All are now available on the Wii Shopping Channel.]]> Mon, 12 Mar 2007 21:43:00 -0500 Brian Mohr http://www.gamebump.com/go/nintendo_confirms_wii_online_date http://www.gamebump.com/go/nintendo_confirms_wii_online_date http://www.gamebump.com/go/nintendo_confirms_wii_online_date# This article was originally published on Gaming Horizon, GameBump's predecessor. Certain formatting, imaged, and embedded content may have been lost in the transition process.

Nintendo has confirmed an official date for when players will be able to play Wii games online.

Japanese gamers have been given the option to play online since last November, but American gamers will have to wait a little longer until July 25th. Pokemon Battle Revolution is expected to be the first Wii online compatible game available. It is expected a variety of other titles coming out later this year will feature online compatibility including Mario Strikers Charged and Battalion Wars 2, but so far neither has been confirmed.]]> Thu, 08 Mar 2007 22:10:00 -0600 Brian Mohr http://www.gamebump.com/go/warhawk_officially_multiplayer_only http://www.gamebump.com/go/warhawk_officially_multiplayer_only http://www.gamebump.com/go/warhawk_officially_multiplayer_only# This article was originally published on Gaming Horizon, GameBump's predecessor. Certain formatting, imaged, and embedded content may have been lost in the transition process.

Sony has announced that the highly-anticipated flight title Warhawk for the PlayStation 3 will be an multiplayer title only.

That means the developers will be removing the single-player experience from the game and thus make the game online only. In the upcoming title, players will be able to control a variety of vehicles from flight and ones such as jeeps, tanks and more.

Sony intends to have plenty of online modes for the title which is scheduled to release this fall.]]> Wed, 07 Mar 2007 22:41:00 -0600 Brian Mohr http://www.gamebump.com/go/hudson_announces_two_for_virtual_console_in_march http://www.gamebump.com/go/hudson_announces_two_for_virtual_console_in_march http://www.gamebump.com/go/hudson_announces_two_for_virtual_console_in_march# This article was originally published on Gaming Horizon, GameBump's predecessor. Certain formatting, imaged, and embedded content may have been lost in the transition process.

Hudson Entertainment posted on their website two games coming to the Wii's Virtual Console in March.

Making their way to the Wii Shopping Channel are the horror side-scroller Splatterhouse from the TurboGrafx-16 which originally was made by Namco for 600 Wii Points or $6. Hudson has announced that they will be bringing Double Dungeons to the online console as well.]]> Wed, 28 Feb 2007 22:23:00 -0600 Brian Mohr http://www.gamebump.com/go/more_games_released_for_virtual_console http://www.gamebump.com/go/more_games_released_for_virtual_console http://www.gamebump.com/go/more_games_released_for_virtual_console# This article was originally published on Gaming Horizon, GameBump's predecessor. Certain formatting, imaged, and embedded content may have been lost in the transition process.

Nintendo released a new set of games on the Wii's Virtual Console this morning through the Wii Shopping Channel.

The leading game of the week obviously is The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. The game is available for 1,000 Wii Points or $10. Joining Zelda is Bio-Hazard Battle which retails for 800 Wii Points or $8. Finally, Chew Man Fu from the TurboGrafx-16 released. The puzzler is available for 600 Wii Points or $6.]]> Mon, 26 Feb 2007 23:48:00 -0600 Brian Mohr http://www.gamebump.com/go/microsoft_announces_xbox_360_platinum_titles http://www.gamebump.com/go/microsoft_announces_xbox_360_platinum_titles http://www.gamebump.com/go/microsoft_announces_xbox_360_platinum_titles# This article was originally published on Gaming Horizon, GameBump's predecessor. Certain formatting, imaged, and embedded content may have been lost in the transition process.

Microsoft has announced eight Xbox 360 titles that will become Platinum Hits.

The games include Battlefield 2: Modern Combat, Burnout Revenge, Call of Duty 2, Dead or Alive 4, Fight Night Round 3, Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter, Top Spin 2 and Rockstar Games presents Table Tennis. Each game will be priced at $29.99 and the price drop is scheduled to start on March 16th.]]> Thu, 22 Feb 2007 22:17:00 -0600 Brian Mohr http://www.gamebump.com/go/insomniac_announces_title_for_new_ratchet__clank_title1 http://www.gamebump.com/go/insomniac_announces_title_for_new_ratchet__clank_title1 http://www.gamebump.com/go/insomniac_announces_title_for_new_ratchet__clank_title1# This article was originally published on Gaming Horizon, GameBump's predecessor. Certain formatting, imaged, and embedded content may have been lost in the transition process.

Insomniac Games has announced a new title for the next Ratchet & Clank title in the series.

The game will be entitled, Ratchet & Clank Future: Tools of Destruction. Brian Allgeier, design director said, "The name Ratchet & Clank Future: Tools of Destruction works on many levels. It signals a new era for the franchise, ties into the game's story, and includes one of our signature subtitle double entendres."]]> Wed, 21 Feb 2007 23:23:00 -0600 Brian Mohr http://www.gamebump.com/go/nintendo_releases_four_more_for_the_virtual_console http://www.gamebump.com/go/nintendo_releases_four_more_for_the_virtual_console http://www.gamebump.com/go/nintendo_releases_four_more_for_the_virtual_console# This article was originally published on Gaming Horizon, GameBump's predecessor. Certain formatting, imaged, and embedded content may have been lost in the transition process.

Another Monday has passed and Nintendo has released another batch of Virtual Console games for the Nintendo Wii.

The latest games to come out on the Shopping Channel for the console include titles from the Super NES, NES, TurboGrafx16 and Sega Genesis. Leading the way is the Super NES hit Donkey Kong Country for 800 Wii Points or $8. Joining it is The Legend of Kage from the NES for 500 Wii Points or $5, New Adventure Island from the TurboGrafx16 for 600 Wii Points or $6 and Streets of Rage for 800 Wii Points or $8.]]> Mon, 19 Feb 2007 23:10:00 -0600 Brian Mohr http://www.gamebump.com/go/qbert_coming_to_ps3_online http://www.gamebump.com/go/qbert_coming_to_ps3_online http://www.gamebump.com/go/qbert_coming_to_ps3_online# This article was originally published on Gaming Horizon, GameBump's predecessor. Certain formatting, imaged, and embedded content may have been lost in the transition process.

Sony announced today that they will be releasing the classic puzzler Q-Bert on the PlayStation 3 Online Store next week.

The game will be featured in high definition and suprt 720p resolution. Q-Bert will include online leaderboards and be available for purchase for $4.99.]]> Thu, 15 Feb 2007 22:29:00 -0600 Brian Mohr http://www.gamebump.com/go/new_wii_channel_released http://www.gamebump.com/go/new_wii_channel_released http://www.gamebump.com/go/new_wii_channel_released# This article was originally published on Gaming Horizon, GameBump's predecessor. Certain formatting, imaged, and embedded content may have been lost in the transition process.

Nintendo has released a new Wii Channel, titled Everybody Votes.

The new channel is free for download on the Wii Shopping Channel and basically allows players to register their Mii as a voter. Every once in a while Nintendo will offer a new question in which you can choose between two answers. Results will also be viewed both by region and worldwide.]]> Wed, 14 Feb 2007 21:43:00 -0600 Brian Mohr http://www.gamebump.com/go/paperboy_coming_to_xbla http://www.gamebump.com/go/paperboy_coming_to_xbla http://www.gamebump.com/go/paperboy_coming_to_xbla# This article was originally published on Gaming Horizon, GameBump's predecessor. Certain formatting, imaged, and embedded content may have been lost in the transition process.

Microsoft has announced that the classic arcade title Paperboy will be releasing on Xbox Live Arcade this week.

The game will officially be unveiled Wednesday, February 14th at 1 a.m. Pacific time. It will be available for download for 400 Microsoft Points or $5. One addition to the game is the multiplayer mode that'll allow gamers to play cooperatively on the same console or on Xbox Live.]]> Mon, 12 Feb 2007 21:48:00 -0600 Brian Mohr http://www.gamebump.com/go/virtual_console_mondays_continue http://www.gamebump.com/go/virtual_console_mondays_continue http://www.gamebump.com/go/virtual_console_mondays_continue# This article was originally published on Gaming Horizon, GameBump's predecessor. Certain formatting, imaged, and embedded content may have been lost in the transition process.

Nintendo has released three more classic games for the Virtual Console on the Nintendo Wii this Monday.

This week three original NES titles make their way online to the Wii Shopping Channel. The additions include Kirby's Adventure for 500 Wii Points or $5, Ice Climber for 500 Wii Points or $5 and Kid Icarus for 500 Wii Points or $5.]]> Mon, 12 Feb 2007 21:45:00 -0600 Brian Mohr http://www.gamebump.com/go/sony_confirms_locoroco_sequel_singstar_ps3_this_spring http://www.gamebump.com/go/sony_confirms_locoroco_sequel_singstar_ps3_this_spring http://www.gamebump.com/go/sony_confirms_locoroco_sequel_singstar_ps3_this_spring# This article was originally published on Gaming Horizon, GameBump's predecessor. Certain formatting, imaged, and embedded content may have been lost in the transition process.

Speaking at the D.I.C.E. summit today, Sony President Phil Harrison dropped a few interesting tidbits coming this spring.

The first was that a sequel of LocoRoco is being developed. Harrison however didn't confirm the console it would be releasing for. Meanwhile, SingStar is set to release this spring and it will feature online store hooks and the ability to upload videos. Finally, Super Rub a Dub, a game based on the Sony duck demos will be a downloadable PlayStation 3 game and will utilize the SIXAXIS feature.]]> Thu, 08 Feb 2007 22:20:00 -0600 Brian Mohr http://www.gamebump.com/go/virtual_console_mondays_continue_on_the_wii http://www.gamebump.com/go/virtual_console_mondays_continue_on_the_wii http://www.gamebump.com/go/virtual_console_mondays_continue_on_the_wii# This article was originally published on Gaming Horizon, GameBump's predecessor. Certain formatting, imaged, and embedded content may have been lost in the transition process.

Nintendo of America announced three new Virtual Console titles for the Wii Shopping Channel today.

The newest classic games making their way to the Wii are the Super Nintendo's Super Mario World for 800 Wii Points. The Turbografx-16 title Vigilante for 600 Wii Points and the Genesis's war title Gain Ground for 800 Wii Points.]]> Mon, 05 Feb 2007 23:32:00 -0600 Brian Mohr http://www.gamebump.com/go/saints_row_coming_to_ps3 http://www.gamebump.com/go/saints_row_coming_to_ps3 http://www.gamebump.com/go/saints_row_coming_to_ps3# This article was originally published on Gaming Horizon, GameBump's predecessor. Certain formatting, imaged, and embedded content may have been lost in the transition process.

The Grand Theft Auto styled, Saint's Row that originally appeared on the Xbox 360 last year will be making its way to the PlayStation 3.

The action adventure title from THQ is expected to release on Sony's console sometime this summer. The game will feature online play, although the developer Volition has not confirmed any exclusive features for the PlayStation 3 release at this time.]]> Wed, 31 Jan 2007 22:50:00 -0600 Brian Mohr http://www.gamebump.com/go/mario_kart_64_headlines_virtual_console_monday http://www.gamebump.com/go/mario_kart_64_headlines_virtual_console_monday http://www.gamebump.com/go/mario_kart_64_headlines_virtual_console_monday# This article was originally published on Gaming Horizon, GameBump's predecessor. Certain formatting, imaged, and embedded content may have been lost in the transition process.

Virtual Console Mondays continued this week with four new releases on the Nintendo Wii.

Leading the way of releases this week is the Nintendo 64 title, Mario Kart 64 for 1,000 Wii Points or $10. Nintendo also released the Super Nintendo Contra title, Contra III: The Alien Wars for 800 Wii Points or $8. Two Sega Genesis titles join the mix in Bonanza Bros. and Comix Zone, both are available for 800 Wii Points or $8.]]> Mon, 29 Jan 2007 22:47:00 -0600 Brian Mohr http://www.gamebump.com/go/nintendo_announces_10_million_dss_sold_in_americas http://www.gamebump.com/go/nintendo_announces_10_million_dss_sold_in_americas http://www.gamebump.com/go/nintendo_announces_10_million_dss_sold_in_americas# This article was originally published on Gaming Horizon, GameBump's predecessor. Certain formatting, imaged, and embedded content may have been lost in the transition process.

Nintendo has announced that they have sold 10 million Nintendo DS handhelds since the unit launched in 2004.

In just December, the DS sold 1.6 million units in the United States. Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aime said, "More than 5 million people joined the ranks as Nintendo DS owners in America last year alone. And right now, they're all saying the same thing: 'Give me more!"]]> Thu, 25 Jan 2007 22:01:00 -0600 Brian Mohr http://www.gamebump.com/go/ps3_firmware_update_available http://www.gamebump.com/go/ps3_firmware_update_available http://www.gamebump.com/go/ps3_firmware_update_available# This article was originally published on Gaming Horizon, GameBump's predecessor. Certain formatting, imaged, and embedded content may have been lost in the transition process.

Sony released the PlayStation 3 firmware update 1.5.

The latest upgrade to the console is key as it improves backwards compatibility with PlayStation 1 and PlayStation 2 titles. Mostly the latest update improves minut details like unreadable text and some clarity issues on backwards compatible titles that previously were hard to distinguish.]]> Wed, 24 Jan 2007 21:23:00 -0600 Brian Mohr http://www.gamebump.com/go/zelda_releases_on_virtual_console_monday http://www.gamebump.com/go/zelda_releases_on_virtual_console_monday http://www.gamebump.com/go/zelda_releases_on_virtual_console_monday# This article was originally published on Gaming Horizon, GameBump's predecessor. Certain formatting, imaged, and embedded content may have been lost in the transition process.

Nintendo of America announced yesterday that they have released another game to the Virtual Console Mondays.

This time around, they added the classic Super Nintendo title The Legend of Zelda: Link to the Past. The game will sell for 800 Wii Points on the console's shopping channel. The big titles will continue next week as Nintendo confirmed today they will be releasing Mario Kart 64.]]> Tue, 23 Jan 2007 22:16:00 -0600