"Geoff Crammond's GRAND PRIX 4 is the Formula One racing simulation that captures the complete 2001 Formula One World Championship.

Officially licensed by Formula One Administration. With the most advanced know how in term of AI's, physics and car set up system that made Grand Prix 3 the best F1 simulation ever, GC GRAND PRIX 4 takes the racing to the next level on both PC and next generation console.

Created by Geoff Crammond, the genius behind the best sellers F1 Grand Prix, Grand Prix 2 and the international best seller Grand Prix 3, GEOFF CRAMMOND'S GRAND PRIX 4 continues the legend by offering the only authentic driving simulation game."

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Gamer Of The Year Regional Finalists
Posted by samoht @ 12:28 a.m. NZST

Well if you wanted to be EA Gamer of the Year for 2002 and you don't have your entry in now you're too late. According to the official Gamer of the Year site qualifying scores are complete and regional finalists have been determined. Here is how it has worked out.

Northern Region Finalists: Charles Ling, Adam Moorehead, Tony Breen, Arian Lawley, Robert Van Den Berg, Dylan Petrie, Katoa Fifita, Josh Wilkinson, Carl Condliffe, Kris Dyer, Dean Webb.

Central Region Finalists: Tristan Patterson, Laura Mason, Douglas Wallace, David Bloch, Adam Baylis.

Southern Region Finalists: Jerry Teo, Peter Gallagher, Hayden Joyce, Justin Murdoch, Sean McGowan.

Congratulations to all of the above and good luck for the regional finals! We'll keep you posted with more Gamer of the Year news as it happens.

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Clan Support For Black and White
Posted by samoht @ 12:13 a.m. NZST

An official announcement from Lionhead on the Black and White site has provided details on an upcoming patch that will add multiplayer clan support to the game.

"We are pleased to announce that the Multiplayer/Clan patch for Black & White (PC version) will be released for download from www.bwgame.com on July 13th. The patch has been created to thank the online community for it's continued support of Black & White.

The introduction of new winning conditions in this Patch make the games more riotous and makes victory sweeter. The network programmers along with Lionhead's test department came up with and tested a number of different winning conditions. These can be selected by players prior to a game, combined in whatever way they choose and a time limit set for any game.

The implementation of all these factors has made games shorter, intense and more brutal and has certainly given Black & White Multiplayer games a new lease of life. To complement the Patch, a new section of Black & White's website has been designed where players can set up, join or view Clans. This will be found athttp://clans.bwgame.com, which will be ready to accept pre-registrations for new Clans at 10am (BST) on 1st July 2002. Please note that registration for Clan names is on a first-come, first-served basis."

Might be time to dig out Black and White and start practicing as there a couple of gaming PCs up for grabs in the first clan competition.

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All 10 international teams and 2 minnow nation teams are included, as well as bonus all time squads for the major nations. Test matches as well as One-day Internationals will also be included for this game. So for the first time all teams will have both white and colour kits. Other new game options will include World Championship, World Series, Sharjah Trophy, Practice Nets, Exhibition match and Knockout Tournaments."

Our new AI system will have opposing teams playing as they do in real life, given that team statistics and tactics will be simulated more accurately than ever before.

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Mythic Announce New MMORPG
Posted by samoht @ 11:06 a.m. NZST

The creators of Dark Age of Camelot have announced they are working on a new science fiction MMORPG called Imperator. DAOC has a fairly loyal following in New Zealand which is impressive considering the game was never 'properly' released here. Here is the scoop from Gamespot.

"Imperator is set in an alternate future world in which the Roman Empire never collapsed. The Roman Republic now spans numerous planets, and peace has reigned for thousands of years. As the game begins, though, new threats have emerged from beyond the borders of the Republic. The galaxy has become more dangerous, and the Republic has become less stable.

According to Mythic, the game will be designed to appeal to players whether they play 10 hours a week or 100 hours a week. It will combine familiar elements with new features to create a game that is very different from current online games both in its gameplay and in its setting, which will combine the architecture and nobility of the Roman Empire with a wide range of creatures and climates found on various planets. "

We can think of another sci-fi MMORPG that Imperator might be competing with. Can you?

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Delta Force Urban Warfare Done
Posted by samoht @ 11:00 a.m. NZST

It isn't often that a PlayStation game makes the news nowadays but the Delta Force franchise has been extremely popular in New Zealand. Novalogic have announced that Delta Force: Urban Warfare has gone gold and is almost good to go.

"In Delta Force Urban Warfare, the player takes control of a lone Delta Force operative who has to single handedly stop a terrorist group from constructing and using a hand held atomic device. The game takes place over 12 missions and is based in various urban locales around the globe."

Urban Warfare has been developed by the exceedingly talented team at Rebellion in the United Kingdom and is being described as "one of the last great PlayStation shooter titles."

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Well style does come at a price. A couple of the Gameplanet team members already have their orders in so be quick!

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Microsoft Moves To GBA
Posted by samoht @ 12:11 p.m. NZST

Straight out of the "well thats odd" files is the news that some of Microsoft's key titles will be appearing on Nintendo's handheld platform. Microsoft will not be publishing the titles themselves, THQ will instead pick up the rights for the Microsoft GBA titles.

Details are still to be completely confirmed but at this stage it looks as if Munch's Oddysee and Monstertruck Madness 2 are definitely on the way. More Microsoft titles and licenses are likely to follow. Stay tuned for more news on this deal as it surfaces.

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Sierra Launch Malice Site
Posted by samoht @ 11:38 a.m. NZST

Malice was one of the original hyped titles for the Xbox so its surprising that Sierra have only just got around to launching the official site for it. The reknowned team at Argonaut recently made the decision to release Malice on the PS2 as well.

"Boasting a tough and feisty teenage heroine, players will no doubt grow addicted to guiding through time in order to undo the terror of a nuclear Dog God gone mad. Malice features 22 levels, a truly original story, and a cast of quirky characters. It's been heralded for its fantastic graphics, unique weaponry, compelling storyline, and intriguing heroine."

Check out the site for screenshots, information and downloads ... you know the score by now.

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Gameplanet runs an IRC server in New Zealand as part of the EnterTheGame chat network. You can join the UT 2003 chat channel by going to Gameplanet Chat (requires Java) and typing #ut2003 in the "Channel" box.

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Vampire Night Competition
Posted by samoht @ 12:42 p.m. NZST

Thanks to the kind people at Sony Computer Entertainment New Zealand we have a G-Con 2 and a copy of Vampire Night to give away to one lucky hunter of the undead scourge!

"The legend has existed for centuries. Very few have survived to tell their account of terror. But we know, the Vampire is real."

To win these goodies we need you to tell us the least fear inducing vampire name you can think of. Lestat, Bodi, Dracula ... all names which leave you quaking in your boots and completely useless if you want to win our competition. Send your non-scary vampire name to vampires@gameplanet.co.nz and a crack team of Gameplanet judges will determine the winner.

The competition closes on Friday the 6th of July and the winner will be announced Monday the 8th of July. Only New Zealand citizens are eligible to participate.

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Funcom Lay Off Staff
Posted by samoht @ 12:22 p.m. NZST

Funcom have announced that to allocate the resources required to keep Anarchy Online cranking they have had to give some of their staff their marching orders.

"Earlier today Funcom released a public statement outlining an organisational restructuring involving a few cutbacks in staff. Employees in all three offices were affected, but the product development of Anarchy Online will remain unaffected."

Most gamers are aware of Anarchy Online's troubled beginnings but in recent times devoted players have said many of the kinks have been ironed out.

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Cricket 2002 Coming This Week
Posted by samoht @ 11:59 a.m. NZST

The team at Electronics Arts New Zealand have come through with the good news that Cricket 2002 for the PC will be available late this week. Apparently the stock is already in the country so Cricket fans shouldn't expect any delays now. Here's a snip from the PR.

"All 10 international teams and 2 minnow nation teams are included, as well as bonus all time squads for the major nations. Test matches as well as One-day Internationals will also be included for this game. So for the first time all teams will have both white and colour kits. Other new game options will include World Championship, World Series, Sharjah Trophy, Practice Nets, Exhibition match and Knockout Tournaments."

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If you have been hiding under a rock for the last few months check out the Gameplanet Neverwinter Nights preview for information on what would have to be the most eagerly anticipated RPG since Diablo 2.

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Square To Reissue Final Fantasy Encyclopedia
Posted by samoht @ 10:47 a.m. NZST

Mondays are often a slow day for news considering us Kiwis are a fair few hours ahead of the rest of the world but here is some news that should get RPG fans blood pumping. Gameforms has found out that Square intend to reissue their encylopedia of the first 6 Final Fantasy games.

"Although Square will already be producing a DVD Guide to the Final Fantasy series, they will also be releasing a revised edition of Final Fantasy Complete Works, the two-book set detailing the first six Final Fantasy games. The original set was published in 1997 and the second book included a PlayStation disc with an encyclopedia of FF enemies, items, parts of the games that didn't make it and more. The new editions sport new cover art, but no word if the encyclopedia disc will make a return. Also of note is that both books are deemed "Volume 1", suggesting that Square will be producing a second set on the next six FFs."

Start brushing up on your Japanese if you want to do more than just look at the pretty pictures.

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Eidos Announce Commandos 3
Posted by samoht @ 10:46 a.m. NZST

The team at Pyro Studios are bringing their boys back out of retirement for another shot at the Axis war machine in Commandos 3.

"Commandos 3 is a tactical action strategy game set against the backdrop of World War II where you must take control of an elite group of Commandos as they venture deep into enemy territory. Commandos 3 aims to take the stunningly detailed graphics and absorbing gameplay of the series to a whole new level. The game features an improved graphics engine, more realistic AI (artificial intelligence), and a greater variety of enemies and equipment. The structure of the game has been completely revamped; it is no longer mission based and instead features a strong narrative that drives the player through the game."

Pyro and Eidos have also stated that they are aiming to make Commandos 3 more accessible than its predecessors. This will be good news for the large numbers of people (including plenty of the GP team) who found Commandos 2 extremely hard! At this stage the game is expected to be released mid 2003.

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Check out our SOF2 game information page for more details about the game. If you haven't got your copy of SOF2 yet (what are you waiting for?), please support Gameplanet by grabbing it from those kind chaps over at Gamezone Online, right here!

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There is a serious swag of gaming equipment to win so head over to the EA Sports site if you think you can handle the competition.

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New Stuntman Site Launched
Posted by samoht @ 10:43 a.m. NZST

After an impressive showing at E3 Infogrames have decided to give Stuntman a fancy new site courtesy of the team at Babel Media.

The site offers the usual array of downloadable music, artwork and game information with a few nice extras thrown in as well. A kit has been made available for those keen on setting up their own Stuntman fan site and once the game is out a high score table will be launched. Gamers will be able to enter codes from the game to rank themselves against other stunt drivers from around the world.

Renaud Marin, Infogrames' European Web Manager said: "Babel Media have designed an edgy web site for us. Rather than just creating backgrounds using predictable in-game assets, they have come up with an original design that fully captures the spirit of our game."

Stuntman is due mid-September 2002.

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Sony Drop PlayStation 2 Price
Posted by samoht @ 10:05 a.m. NZST

The mutterings have been going on for a while now so Sony have stepped out and put an end to the rumours. The PlayStation 2 has hit the sub $500 mark.

"Sony Computer Entertainment (SCE) New Zealand today announced that it is reducing the price of the PlayStation2computer entertainment system to an expected street price of $499.95.

This price reduction will be effective from 21st June 2002, and brings the popular games console to a new sub $500 price point.

Steve Dykes managing director SCENZ says with over 60,000 PlayStation 2 consoles already sold in New Zealand this move is set to further increase the company's market base.

"At the new purchase price of $499.95, PlayStation 2 represents outstanding value – especially considering it doubles as a DVD movie player straight out of the box."

"The PlayStation 2 console is the world's leading games machine, having shipped over 30million units globally which is ten times that of our closest competitor. Equally as impressive, PlayStation 2 is recognised for its high quality games having already shipped 160 million software units worldwide.""

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"The fun has evolved into prehistoric pandemonium as you add dinosaurs to your zoo with the Zoo Tycoon Dinosaur Digs expansion pack! Zookeepers will be envious as you let your imagination run wild building the most vibrant and beautiful zoo with dinosaurs and ice age beasts. Manage more than 20 new awe-inspiring creatures including the T-rex, Velociraptor, and Sabre-tooth cat while keeping your animals and guests happy and you will be a Zoo Tycoon! The expansion pack seamlessly integrates with Zoo Tycoon, allowing you to begin playing the moment you start the game."

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Square Goes Shopping
Posted by samoht @ 10:55 a.m. NZST

Massive news for tactical RPG fans just in from Gamespot!

"On Wednesday, Quest announced that it will hand over its software development division to Square. The company has developed and released the simulation strategy games in the Legend of Ogre Battle and Tactics Ogre series in the past, and it more recently developed Ogre Battle 64 for the Nintendo 64 and Tactics Ogre Gaiden for the Game Boy Advance (both published by Nintendo).

Square's acquisition of the software development division should fit in perfectly with the recent announcement that it is developing several GBA titles, one of which is the handheld version of Final Fantasy Tactics. The creator of the Ogre Battle series, Yasumi Matsuno, had previously commented that Square has obtained the rights to release any Ogre Battle titles in the future."

This should be a much more sensible use of resources than some of Square's less than succesful investments of recent times.

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Command and Conquer: Generals Site Goes Live
Posted by samoht @ 10:31 a.m. NZST

We have just received word from Electronic Arts New Zealand that the official site for Command and Conquer:Generals has gone live. Judging by what we saw at E3 Generals will make fans of the very first Command and Conquer title happy as it uses more realistic, 'real-world' units and characters.

"Generals is the next game in the 17-million-selling Command & Conquer franchise. It's being created by EA Pacific, the developers of the wildly popular Command & Conquer Red Alert™ 2 and Command & Conquer Yuri's Revenge™.

"Generals will give gamers a Hollywood version of modern war with intense combat and spectacular special effects," said Mark Skaggs, general manager of EA Pacific and executive in charge of production for Generals. "We're creating a game of global conflict based on issues relevant to today's turbulent world. Gamers will be in command of this modern war, and they'll win that war by using weapons they see on today's battlefield, plus new weapons and vehicles fresh off the military's drawing boards."

The armies that will clash in Generals are the super powers of United States and China, and a massive underground organization, the Global Liberation Army, bent on drowning the world in anarchy and terror. Each of the three sides represents a distinct geo-political viewpoint and will fight the war with vastly different tactics and weaponry."

Check out the official site for information on the different sides in the game, their units and the all new 'Sage' engine that powers Generals. We will be posting more information and some screenshots soon.

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If you're keen to take a shot at getting on the beta check out the sign up page at the official site.

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Bioware Auction Results
Posted by samoht @ 10:53 a.m. NZST

As reported on Monday Bioware have been auctioning signed copies of Neverwinter Nights to raise money for a hospital in their area. The auctions on ebay have been wound up and the company has raised approximately $10,000 US dollars.

"Up for auction were two autographed first-run copies of BioWare's
latest Dungeons & Dragons role playing game, Neverwinter Nights.

"We're incredibly happy with the response this auction has drawn", said Dr. Ray Muzyka, Joint CEO and Co-Executive Producer of Neverwinter Nights. "Supporting the BioWare Kids' Fund is important to us. We're pleased to announce that BioWare will match the funds generated through this auction, as well as funds generated by the ongoing auction of a signed Air-Hockey table, and funds donated by an anonymous group of Neverwinter Nights fans" Dr. Muzyka concluded.

"We think it's great that through this auction, we can involve our fans in something that is so important to us," said Dr. Greg Zeschuk, Joint CEO and Co-Executive Producer of Neverwinter Nights. "These are limited edition - two of a kind collectors items, signed by the entire Neverwinter Nights development team. To be able to offer them to our dedicated fans and then have the BioWare Kids' Fund benefit from their auction is very cool"."

Check out this thread in the Gameplanet Forums for comments on the auction.

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The Settlers Move To Consoles
Posted by samoht @ 10:38 a.m. NZST

Ubisoft have announced that the fifth title in the Settlers series is on the way. This one looks to be a little bit different though as The Settlers are migrating from their usual home on the PC to the Game Cube, PlayStation 2 and Xbox. A PC version will still be released.

"18 June 2002 – Ubi Soft® Entertainment, one of the world's leading videogame publishers, today announced the development of a new game from The Settlers® series, by Ubi Soft's German studio Blue Byte. This fifth new episode is set for a worldwide release on PC-CD Rom, as well as bringing The Settlers to consoles for the first time.

Recognized for its detailed graphics, hand painted textures, bright and happy colors, The Settlers' universe presents a mixture of history and imagination, all spiced up with cartoon-like elements.

"This new game from the cult series will undoubtedly widen The Settlers' audience" says Odile Limpach, Managing Director of Ubi Soft Entertainment GmbH and the Ubi Soft studio Blue Byte. "Our production team is currently focusing on innovative 3D-technology and absolutely new game features". "

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Interest is certainly going to be high for this one as Age of Mythology has some fantastic RTS pedigree behind it. If you're at all keen at an early look at the game bookmark the Age of Mythology site now and get ready to start clicking refresh come the weekend.

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IGI 2 Multiplayer Details
Posted by samoht @ 9:38 a.m. NZST

Codemasters have sent word that the details on IGI 2:Covert Strike's multiplayer mode have been confirmed.

"IGI2: Covert Strike will deliver a full team-oriented multiplayer mode, with squads of up to eight players on both sides.

Gameplay pits IGI operatives against terrorist groups from around the globe. The varied multi-objective based gameplay will include hacking data satellites to launching space shuttles, bombing oil refineries and escorting convoys. Reconnaissance elements provide for a new style of FPS multiplayer gaming, blending stealth and surveillance with action and gunplay."

We will post a full update on additional IGI 2 multiplayer features shortly.

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Final Fantasy XI PC Beta
Posted by samoht @ 9:28 a.m. NZST

Gamespot have reported on Square's plans to bring their first MMORPG to the PC. Final Fantasy XI hasn't had the most auspicious start in Japan but this hasn't stopped Square from making plans to take the game from its PS2 home to other platforms.

"Square has announced that it will begin the beta test of Final Fantasy XI, its massively multiplayer online role-playing game, for the PC starting June 18 in Japan. The company has already begun receiving applications on its PlayOnline Web site, though the recommended requirements are limited to higher-end systems, such as those with a Pentium 4, a GeForce3 (or higher), and more than 64MB of video memory. The beta test will include Final Fantasy XI, Tetra Master, and the PlayOnline Viewer. The beta test is limited to residents of Japan."

Almost worth moving to Japan for!

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Tomb Raider: TAOD Gameplay Trailer Available
Posted by samoht @ 9:23 a.m. NZST

She's back. Lara fans who are hanging out for the first 'next-generation' installment of the Tomb Raider can now drive themselves into a frenzy by checking out the newly released gameplay trailer. Tomb Raider: The Angel of Darkness is due in the fourth quarter of 2002.

"A series of grisly murders brings Lara into conflict with a sinister Alchemist from the past, and a secret alliance of powerful individuals shrouded in mystery. At the centre of this conflict are five 14th century paintings - the Obscura Paintings, which the Alchemist is desperate to repossess.

Accused of the murder of her one time mentor Von Croy, Lara becomes a fugitive on the run. Pursued by the police, she is drawn into a dark world of blood, betrayal and vengeance spanning across hundreds of years. It is up to her to defeat this unholy alliance and stop them from unleashing their incredible powers on the world."

The gameplay trailer can be downloaded or streamed. More information is available at the official Tomb Raider site.

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You can check out the Ebay auctions here and here. They also seem to be auctioning the freshly autographed Bioware Air Hockey table!

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Yuri's Revenge Map Pack Available
Posted by samoht @ 9:14 a.m. NZST

Command and Conquer fans will be pleased to learn that Westwood have released a couple of new official maps for the Red Alert 2 expansion Yuri's Revenge.

"New official Maps for Yuri's Revenge! The fourth official map pack for Yuri's Revenge has arrived. In this download players will find two never before seen official maps created by the Yuri's Revenge team.

Circuit Board

(2-4 Player Map)
Heavy Resources (Gold, Gems, oil)
Environment Conditions: Urban
File: CrctBrd.yro

Features:
Circuit Board is a crazy mix of buildings and landmarks found throughout Yuri's Revenge. Players should have no trouble finding tech centers of all types to occupy." The maps are available at the official Red Alert 2 site.

THQ Provide Smackdown 4 Details
Posted by samoht @ 9:13 a.m. NZST

The team at PS2.co.nz have provided a few details on THQ's latest installment in their extremely popular wrestling franchise for the PS2. WWE Smackdown! 4: Shut Your Mouth.

Features:

• Updated roster featuring even more World Wrestling Superstars including, Hollywood Hulk Hogan, Stacy Keibler, DDP™, Ric Flair™, the nWo® and many more!
• In-depth story mode with multiple character paths and for the first time, players will have the option to enter Superstars into a World Wrestling draft pool
• Variety of backstage areas modeled after Madison Square Garden and more than 14 Pay Per View Arenas including Backlash, Vengeance and Unforgiven

A big thanks to all those who entered.

The House Of The Dead movie is scheduled for release during spring 2003. House Of The Dead 3 ships on Xbox later this year.

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Warcraft III Is GOLD!
Posted by Big Gaz @ 8:12 a.m. NZST

Blizzard prepares for the biggest worldwide launch in PC gaming history on July 3, 2002.

"IRVINE, Calif. - JUNE 13, 2002 - Blizzard Entertainment, a studio of the games division of Vivendi Universal Publishing, announced today that Warcraft III: Reign of Chaos™, the eagerly awaited sequel to the company's #1-selling series of games, has gone gold. With record-breaking initial orders of 4.5 million copies, the game will be available at retail outlets worldwide in multiple languages beginning on July 3, 2002.

"We're very excited to announce that development of Warcraft III: Reign of Chaos has been completed and that gamer and retail demand will make this the largest launch in gaming history," said Mike Morhaime, Blizzard Entertainment president and co-founder. "When we set out to create the next installment of the Warcraft series, we wanted to design something both unique and fun to play. We're extremely proud of the game we've created and we believe gamers will be very pleased when they see what we have in store for them."

In Warcraft III: Reign of Chaos, players revisit the war-torn world of Azeroth a generation after the end of the Second War between the Orcs and the Humans. The fragile peace that had since settled over the land is now on the verge of being shattered, for a dark power has returned after thousands of years to carry out its nefarious plans. Two new races - the Undead Scourge and the Night Elves - emerge to join the fray, as players follow a single epic storyline through four successive campaigns. Players can also take the battle into their own hands in an enhanced multiplayer mode, playable on local area networks and exclusively over the Internet on Battle.net®, the largest online service of its kind in the world."

Expect Warcraft III: Reign Of Chaos in New Zealand by July 5th.

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Latest Soldier Of Fortune II News
Posted by Big Gaz @ 8:06 a.m. NZST

Here's some good news. The Activision suppliers have said they have recieved their stock of Soldier of Fortune II. They are hoping to ship out all stock today for an official release tomorrow. Finally! :)

To help support Gameplanet Servers, order your copy of Soldier of Fortune II from Gamezone Online, our main server sponsor. If you do, we can have more SOF II servers for you to play on! Order now and save $10!

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Check out our Half-Life Update Centre for all the download links.

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Soul Calibur II In July
Posted by Big Gaz @ 8:49 a.m. NZST

Namco has announced that Soul Calibur II should be hitting arcades worldwide as early as July 5th.

"The game will feature several modes--arcade, time attack, training, survival, and conquest. The conquest mode is a time-based release and is expected to appear a month after the game arrives in arcades. In it, players will first enter their user name and password, then select a character, and pick one of four factions. Players will then engage in eight consecutive battles against opposing factions, and their performance will affect their faction's territories and improve their character's skills. Unfortunately, characters will only be saved onto the arcade cabinet players initially register on, so they will be forced to play the conquest mode on a regular basis or face the possibility of having their character deleted."

The console versions of the game are due for release January 2003 in Japan.

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Incredible Hulk Games Officially Announced
Posted by Big Gaz @ 8:40 a.m. NZST

Universal Interactive have announced that The Hulk is currently in development for the GameCube, the PlayStation 2, and the Xbox. This version of the game is based on the upcoming Hulk movie, due for release in cinemas next May.

"The Hulk is one of the most physically powerful and emotionally compelling superhero characters ever created, and his transition to the world of interactive entertainment will extend all the power of this movie event and create a uniquely exciting game experience," said Jim Wilson, president of Universal Interactive. "UI's upcoming titles will provide Hulk fans and action adventure gamers with all the thrilling action and adventure they have come to expect from this hugely popular character."

The game is due for release early next year.

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Epic On Leaked UT 2003 Demo
Posted by Big Gaz @ 8:20 a.m. NZST

Mark Rein from Epic Games has spoken on the leaked demo of Unreal Tournament 2003.

"A leaked early test version of UT2003 is floating around the Internet. It is not representative of the quality or performance of the final game. Infogrames' job in situations like these is to go after the people who are leaking or passing-along this version. They also need to suppress conversations about the leaked version on web forums to avoid pointing at it and tempting innocent people, who normally don't traffic in stolen software, to download it to find out what people are talking about.

The version of the game out there is missing a whole bunch of features. It has mediocre performance, lacks a ton of AI code, has unfinished levels, doesn't have Karma physics in it, has unfinished menus, lacks a ton of sound effects and music, has unbalanced, un-tweaked weapons, and generally is indicative of something still too early to even be called beta."

Check out the full details in the official UT 2003 Forums.

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Dino Crisis 3 For Xbox
Posted by Big Gaz @ 8:06 a.m. NZST

Capcom have unveiled Dino Crisis 3 for the Xbox. Created by the mastermind of Shinji Mikami, the esteemed producer of the Resident Evil series of products, Dino Crisis 3 is the next blockbuster in the acclaimed series that has sold more than 3.5 million units worldwide. In Dino Crisis 3, players venture to the outer limits of space where all new dinosaurs await.

"In Dino Crisis 3, a team of intergalactic Marines discovers a Colony Spaceship infested with cold-blooded beasts. Fighting a constant battle for survival, the team must fight together to survive the ensuing chaos. Equipped with jet propulsion packs, the main characters can maneuver quickly through the environment. This new type of control is a break from anything ever seen and will offer players new challenges and more freedom of movement. Visually, Capcom has focused its attention on achieving a sense of scale and solidifying the craft's detail."

The game is due for release in the U.S later this year.

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Hot Pursuit 2 News
Posted by Big Gaz @ 8:56 a.m. NZST

Electronic Arts have informed us that Need For Speed Hot Pursuit 2 for the PC has slipped from its original release date of August until October 21st. No reason for the delay was given. The Playstation 2 version is still on track to release August 30th.

Need For Speed: Hot Pursuit 2 stays true to the heritage of housing a stable of exclusive and exotic cars from the world's most coveted licensors including Ferrari, Porsche, and Lamborghini, to name a few.

Staying true to its award-winning legacy, Need For Speed: Hot Pursuit 2 will deliver an exciting, intense arcade driving experience. The game includes a variety of open road environments that truly come to life, consisting of river crossings, waterfalls, beach surf, dusty paths, brush fires.

With over 12 courses, some of which include extreme weather conditions-hurricanes, tornadoes, blizzards and downpours, provide the widest variety of driving challenges. Animated drivers and cops give life to the drivers within the game, bringing added emotion to the world of these unattainable super cars.

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The Getaway Website Opens
Posted by Big Gaz @ 8:26 a.m. NZST

Sony have just announced that the website for their highly anticipated Playstation 2 game The Getaway has gone live. The site features screenshots, information on the game's story, vehicle info, behind the scenes tidbits, and a desktop wallpaper. Head over to www.thegetaway.co.uk and check it out. The game is due for release 3rd quarter 2002.

If you look closely, you can see that the game has already got a U.K R18 label. GTA 3 fans rejoice ;).

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Electronic Arts Buy Black Box
Posted by Big Gaz @ 8:20 a.m. NZST

Electronic Arts have announced that they have acquired developer Black Box Games.

"Black Box Games is a studio full of highly-talented and creative people," said Paul Lee, Senior Vice President and COO of Electronic Arts Worldwide Studios. "They have an impressive track record for developing multiple titles across several platforms. This acquisition brings us a powerhouse team to work on future titles for the Sony PlayStation 2 console, Nintendo GameCube and Xbox system from Microsoft."

"We have had a great relationship with EA as an outside developer for several years," said Paul Tremblay, CEO of Black Box Games. "This next big step of becoming part of the world's largest and most talented game development studio is an absolute thrill and certainly the biggest reward for producing high quality titles over the past four years."

Black Box is working on the latest Need For Speed game at the moment, and other games in the Black Box stable include NHL 2K, Sega Soccer Slam, NHL Hitz 2002 and Nascar Thunder 2002.

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GameCube Nintendo's Last Console?
Posted by @ 6:57 a.m. NZST

New Nintendo president Satoru Iwata has revealed that the GameCube may be the company's last console.

Speaking at an analyst meeting, Iwata said the the company would be focusing more on making better games and expanding their share of the market, rather than designing more powerful consoles. Or commonly known as "Doing a Sega."

"We're reaching the limits of how far we can appeal to consumers by boosting the machine's performance or providing more compelling graphics and sound," said Iwata, before adding cryptically: "I feel like a chef cooking for a King who's full." Yamauchi must have a raging appetite. However, this isn't to say Nintendo aren't optimistic about the GameCube's performance - they intend to ship around 50 million GameCube's around the world by March 2005. Besides, Nintendo have always said the GameCube is 'future proof', and the company think the console's lifespan is around 7 years."

Make sure you check out the demo from Gameplanet Downloads .

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F1 2002 (PC) This Week
Posted by Big Gaz @ 10:52 a.m. NZST

Electronic Arts have confirmed that F1 2002 for the PC will be arriving on New Zealand store shelves this week. The game will have an RRP of $69.95.

F1 2002 will be the first Formula One game to feature the new 2002 season when it launches. Officially licensed by Formula One Administration Limited, it features real drivers, teams, cars and tracks from the 2002 FIA Formula One World Championship and it will be available at the start of the brand new season allowing the true Formula One aficionado the opportunity to play along as the real life drama unfolds.

You can download the demo from Gameplanet Downloads.

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Capcom To Release 74 Games By Next March
Posted by Big Gaz @ 10:47 a.m. NZST

Capcom have announced plans to release 74 titles this fiscal year, including 22 titles for the PlayStation 2, nine titles for the GameCube, five titles for the Xbox, eight titles for the Game Boy Advance, two titles for the PlayStation, one title for the Dreamcast, and 27 titles for the PC and other consoles.

Capcom expects to ship 16.2 million copies of this software during this fiscal year, including at least 500,000 copies each of titles such as Auto Modellista (PS2), Devil May Cry 2 (PS2), and Resident Evil 0 (GC).

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Download the demo from Gameplanet Downloads.

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Unreal Tournament 2003 Multiplayer Demo Soon
Posted by Big Gaz @ 7:55 a.m. NZST

Infogrames have said that we can expect the Unreal Tournament 2003 demo "within the next 2-3 weeks". The demo may even be out as early as next week. Check out the official website www.unrealtournament2003.com. Stay tuned for more.

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Neverwinter Nights Release News
Posted by Big Gaz @ 7:31 a.m. NZST

Word has come through that Neverwinter Nights for the PC is on track to release in New Zealand at the end of this month. The game, from legendary RPG developers Bioware, is one of the most anticipated RPGs ever. Stay tuned for more.

Neverwinter Nights is a new Advanced Dungeons & Dragons roleplaying game from BioWare, the developers of Baldur's Gate. Neverwinter Nights has not only been designed specifically for the online, multiplayer environment and the latest in 3D technology but it also allows you to experience all the magic of pen-and-paper Dungeon-Mastering on your home computer. Using Neverwinter Nights' powerful and user-friendly Solstice Toolset, you can create and populate entire new modular worlds and stories for others to adventure in. Even better, enter a multiplayer module as a Dungeon Master (DM) and you can alter the plot, possess characters, and manage combat from behind the scenes, all in real-time.

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Playstation 2 DVD Competition
Posted by Big Gaz @ 7:29 a.m. NZST

The Playstation 2 is not only the number one selling games console in New Zealand at the moment, but also the biggest selling DVD player as well. Sixty thousand PlayStation 2 units have now been sold in the New Zealand market, showing that the chance to play games and watch DVDs on the same machine is a winner with NZ gamers. Games, music, movies – Playstation 2 does it all.

To help celebrate the achievements of the Playstation 2 in NZ, Sony Computer Entertainment have kindly given Gameplanet a PS2 DVD pack to giveaway to one lucky Gameplanet reader. The pack consists of 1 x Official Sony DVD Remote, 1 x Fast and the Furious DVD Movie and 1 x Copy of Moto GP 2. To be in with the chance to win this pack all you have to do is answer the following question.

- What was the first Playstation 2 game to be released on a DVD disc in NZ?

To enter, send through your answer to gwright@gameplanet.co.nz with your name and address by June 12th. The winner will be drawn and announced on June 15th. Only one entry per person will be accepted. Good luck!

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The original Max Payne shipped more than 2.75 million copies worldwide for the PC, Xbox and Playstation 2, and obviously Take 2 are expecting bigger and better things from its sequel.

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New Releases
Posted by Big Gaz @ 8:27 a.m. NZST

Yesterday saw a couple of new releases hit store shelves. They were Starwars Galactic Battlegrounds: The Clone Campaigns for the PC and F1 2002 for the Playstation 2.

Clone Campaigns: Star Wars Galactic Battlegrounds: Clone Campaigns features 14 original single-player combat scenarios, new civilizations, environments, vehicles, and more than 200 new units. By adding the expansion pack to Star Wars Galactic Battlegrounds: Clone Campaigns, in both skirmish and multiplayer modes, players can mix and match civilizations from Attack of the Clones with those from the classic Star Wars universe.

F1 2002: The annual Formula One World Championship intoxicates a worldwide audience of billions, with its cocktail of speed, excitement, glamour and rivalry. With the super powers of world racing lining up on the grid, the race for the 2002 title is set to be hotly contended. EA SPORTS F1 2002 brings this world to life and delivers it to the racing fan with the most technically advanced and visually stunning Formula One experience ever.

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Codemasters Announce Snooker 2003
Posted by Big Gaz @ 8:17 a.m. NZST

Codemasters have announced that they will be bringing World Championship Snooker 2003 to the Playstation 2, Xbox and PC later this year.

Says Mike Hayes, Codemasters' Marketing Director: "That the series of World Championship Snooker games has been so popular, with a continual presence in the video game charts, is a testament to the sports on-going popularity across a wide consumer audience. World Championship Snooker 2003 is set to continue the series' success and will be another genre-leading title in Codemasters' sports game portfolio."

Officially licensed from World Snooker, the official body for the sport, World Championship Snooker 2003 will also show off meticulously detailed characters (9,000-15,000 polygons per character) and photo realistic balls, tables and venues. The traditional Pool game 9 Ball and English 8 Ball will accompany a new aiming system when the game ships.

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Head back behind enemy lines with Lt. Jimmy Patterson in Medal of Honor Frontline. In this installment of the smash-hit Medal of Honor series, Lt. Patterson returns and must use the confusion of the real-world offensive Operation Market Garden to infiltrate the German frontline and steal the HO-IX flying wing, an experimental Nazi weapon so powerful that it could turn the tide of World War II. Players will take on five missions, each consisting of at least three individual levels, all of which add up to one complete storyline. To help him succeed in his assignment, Lt. Patterson will have the assistance of a small squad of soldiers and a slew of new weapons, ranging from the Liberator Pistol, Panzerschreck, MG42 mounted machine gun—to the return of the ever-popular B.A.R. Patterson's friends and foes will all have much improved AIs, making for tense and heated large-scale battles, with friends, foes, and even civilians all on screen at any given moment.

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Final Fantasy Is A Money Machine
Posted by Big Gaz @ 8:17 a.m. NZST

Squaresoft have announced that they have shipped a total of 5 million copies of Final Fantasy X for the Playstation 2 worldwide. This makes it one of the biggest selling consoles titles EVER.

In other Final Fantasy news, Gamezone Online have announced the winner of their Final Fantasy X pre-order promotion. Congrats go to James Espie of Papatoetoe, Auckland, who walks away with a stack of Final Fantasy X figurines!

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Task Force Dagger Delayed
Posted by Big Gaz @ 8:04 a.m. NZST

Word has come through that Novalogic's Delta Force: Task Force Dagger has been pushed back until July 21st in New Zealand. No reasons were given for the big delay.

"Take control as 1 of 10 different Special Forces soldiers over 25 intense and varied missions set in Afghanistan. Only the best of the best are selected to become members of the 2/75th RANGER, SEAL Team 6, CIA Spec Ops, the UK SAS 22 Regiment, SFOD-SF Viper Team (Green Berets), Australian SASR, Canadian JTF-2, Marine Force Recon, USAF CSAR (Air Force Pararescue) and of course SFOD-DELTA!

Missions take place deep in enemy territory, from Kandahar to Mazar-i-Sharif to Tora Bora. Delta Force Operatives raid rebel headquarters, take control of a local airport, ambush enemy convoys and destroy key SAM and SCUD missile sites.

Utilizing NovaLogic's updated Land Warrior engine, Task Force Dagger has been designed by Zombie Studios as a stand-alone mission pack with new characters, weapons and single and multiplayer levels."

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Cricket 2002 Delayed
Posted by Big Gaz @ 8:01 a.m. NZST

Electronic Arts have informed us this morning that Cricket 2002 for the PC has suffered another delay. The game will now not be available until June 21st.

Pre-order EA Sports Cricket 2002 from Gamezone Online and go in the draw to win the ultimate collection of CD's from the 12th Man. The collection contains eight CD's crammed full of the 12th Man's legendary humour vaued at over $140! The pack includes Wired World of Sports, Wired World of Sports 2, Bill Lawry: This is Your Life, 12th Man Again, Still the 12th Man and The 12th Man: The Final Dig.

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Janes Attack Squadron Released
Posted by Big Gaz @ 7:56 a.m. NZST

Janes Attack Squadron was officially released in New Zealand yesterday. The game has been eagerly awaited by the sim community, and should do very well. The game has an RRP of $69.95.

Jane's Attack Squadron offers single missions, campaigns, quick missions, and training missions. Campaigns combine single-style missions, and put you in the role of squad leader, while quick missions allow you to set a few parameters and jump into the fray. Training missions cover basics (takeoff and landing) and attack maneuvers (such as dive-bombing and using rockets and torpedoes). The game also includes robust multiplayer support for up to 8 players via LAN or TCP/IP. Multiplayer options include deathmatch style Dogfights. Missions are set in the Western European Theater, primarily in Western France, Western Germany, and the Low Countries. Sea-based missions are flown over the English Channel and North Sea off the European coast.

Order your copy from Gamezone Online and save $10!!!

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Latest Japan Sales Figures
Posted by Big Gaz @ 7:46 a.m. NZST

Here are the latest hardware sales figures from Japan for the week ending June 2nd.

Interesting to note that for the second week in a row the Xbox has outsold the Gamecube. But will anyone ever stop Sony?

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To help support Gameplanet Servers, buy Half Life from Gamezone Online, our main server sponsor. Buy it now and save $10!!!

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Strategy First Grab Jagged Alliance
Posted by Big Gaz @ 8:25 a.m. NZST

Sirtech have licensed the cult Jagged Alliance franchise to Strategy First.

"The Jagged Alliance series has been a world-wide hit, and has had a tremendous following among end-users," said Robert Sirotek, Vice President of Sir Tech. "We did not want to leave our loyal fans of the series without ongoing support, so we entered into a partnership with Strategy First to provide end-users with this service. Strategy First will provide us with access to distribution channels, and bring the series under 'one roof' to permit better quality control and management of the franchise. It is always better that a franchise of this size and quality be managed from one source."

"Strategy First is delighted to be managing Sirtech's Jagged Alliance franchise," said Don McFatridge, President. "We have been fans of the franchise for years, and look forward to bringing the series back into the retail channel now, and extending the title with new products in the years to come.

As part of the agreement with Sirtech, Strategy First will handle all sales, distribution, and end-user support of Jagged Alliance's back catalog.

In addition to the agreement made with Strategy First to manage the Jagged Alliance franchise, another partner is being sought to handle the Wizardry franchise in the same manner. "Announcements will be made public when a home for select Wizardry back-catalog products is found," said Robert Sirotech.

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New Websites Launch
Posted by Big Gaz @ 8:20 a.m. NZST

Two new websites have opened for business today, one for the eagerly anticipated Bloodrayne and one for the shooter/infiltration game Iron Storm. Follow the links to check them out.

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Final Fantasy Mania
Posted by Big Gaz @ 8:09 a.m. NZST

Even though this has not been confirmed for PAL release, this news is too good not to publish.

Squaresoft has announced that they will be publishing a 3-disc DVD set for the Playstation 2 that chronicles the entire Final Fantasy saga from the beginning.

"The Final Fantasy Adventure Bible will cover all the installments up to and including Final Fantasy XI and will retail for 13,000 yen ($104 USD). Disc one of the set will cover Final Fantasy I, II, II, and XI (not sure why Final Fantasy XI is covered out of order), Disc two tackles Final Fantasy IV, V, and VI and Disc three will cover Final Fantasy VII, VIII, IX, and X."

The Final Fantasy Bible will be released in Japan on July 25th. We'll let you know of any details of a U.S or European release.

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Name Change For Starfox Adventures.
Posted by Big Gaz @ 8:05 a.m. NZST

Nintendo Europe have confirmed that Starfox Adventures: Dinosaur Planet for the Gamecube will be renamed for the European market (which includes NZ). The new title will be Lylat Wars Adventures: Dinosaur Planet. Lylat Wars was also the name given to the PAL version of Starfox on the Nintendo 64 a few years ago. The rename is due to copy right issues.

Lylat Wars Adventures: Dinosaur Planet is due for release in PAL markets in November.

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In other Final Fantasy news, Gamezone Online have announced the winner of their Final Fantasy X pre-order promotion. Congrats go to James Espie of Papatoetoe, Auckland, who walks away with a stack of Final Fantasy X figurines!

Aliens: Colonial Marines Cancelled?
Posted by Big Gaz @ 9:18 a.m. NZST

Word has come through that the eagerly awaited Aliens: Colonial Marines for the Playstation 2 may not see the light of day. According to an EA representative, the game is currently on hold and is no longer being developed (the game was not shown off at E3). EA and Fox are currently deciding what to do with the game, which could mean that it will be picked back up at some point, though it may also mean that the game will be cancelled.

This is sad news indeed, as the game was looking great. Fingers crossed for a positive decision.

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Electronic Arts Release Update
Posted by Big Gaz @ 9:03 a.m. NZST

Electronic Arts New Zealand have sent through a release update for June.

Kicking off is the release this Friday of Medal of Honor: Frontline for the Playstation 2. The game has recieved great reviews overseas, and should be one of the biggest selling console games this year. Their big PC release this month is EA SPORTS Cricket 2002 which is on track to release on June 14th, and will have a great RRP of only $69.95. EA also have four new GameCube titles launching this month. The titles; James Bond 007: Agent Under Fire, F1 2002, SSX Tricky, Cel Damage add to the strong Game Cube line-up EA already have.

This month will also see the release of EA SPORTS F1 2002 on PC (June 11th) and PS2 (June 7th).

Keep an eye out also this month for TV ads for Medal of Honor: Frontline (PS2), Rogue Leader (Gamecube) and Fifa 2002 World Cup (PS2, PC and GC).

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- Expanded multiplayer options over Battle.net including a larger number of players per game and multiple game types including team play and questing.

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Vampire Night Next Week
Posted by Big Gaz @ 10:18 a.m. NZST

Sony have informed us that Vampire Night for the Playstation 2 will be available in New Zealand the end of next week. Vampire Night is made by Namco, and is one of the few games that will take advantage of your dust collecting GunCon2. The game has been improved over the arcade version, and includes a special training mode, an adventure mode, and other hidden features. The game will have an RRP of $119.95.

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One For Diablo 2 Fans
Posted by Big Gaz @ 10:01 a.m. NZST

Blizzard have teamed up with the king of fantasy artwork, Keith Parkinson, and produced prints of an incredible piece of Diablo 2 themed artwork. The name of the piece is "Final Stand", and you can view it now at Blizzards Online store. The piece is a limited edition, and has a price of $60US (they do ship to NZ).

"In "Final Stand", Keith Parkinson has meticulously depicted five mortal heroes in a desperate struggle against the Lord of Terror, Diablo. The mortal heroes of Sanctuary will need to pool all of their tremendous powers to defeat the raging demon in his own realm. Will they be victorious - or will this be their 'Final Stand' against the shadow? This image has been carefully reproduced in a limited quantity, with each high-quality print signed and numbered by Parkinson."

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Soldier of Fortune 2 Update
Posted by Big Gaz @ 12:44 p.m. NZST

Word from the official Activision suppliers is that Soldier of Fortune II will be released sometime in the coming week. They are still having problems with the ratings issue. In the meantime, the game waits in their warehouse as it has for the last week and a half.

Download the demo from Gameplanet Downloads, and help support Gameplanet Servers by pre-ordering your copy from Gamezone Online.

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Dave Mirra XXX Announced For GameCube
Posted by @ 12:24 p.m. NZST

When you hear the words Dave Mirra you don't expect it to be followed by anything R rated, but Dave Mirra XXX for the Gamecube is definitely unlike any of its predecessors. Don't get me wrong, it still has bikes in it, but this time includes the option to take the clothes off your characters, yes that includes taking the tops off your female characters that now feature animated breasts.

It doesn't stop there, as the game will feature new mini-games that involve stripping and wardrobe removal, snotty-nosed brats urinating in public pools, senseless automobile accidents that destroy everything in its path, and unlockable bonuses that include DVD-quality full-motion video of real life Scores stripper girls. And for players who do well, they will be rewarded with real-life strip shows where everything comes off. Acclaim must be getting desperate.

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