Productivity worldwide will slow today as gamers around the globe download the newly launched expansion pack Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords - Revenge of the Plague Lord from Xbox LIVE Marketplace.  The expansion pack is available for play as an addition to fan favorite game Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords for Xbox LIVE Arcade for Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft. Gamers can adventure for hours of extended gameplay as one of four new Hero Professions, collect scores of new spells and items, accept new quests, conquer new monsters and bosses and combat a brand new archenemy. The expansion pack further increases the full Puzzle Quest experience by adding three new Achievements and raising the character Level Cap to 60. Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords - Revenge of the Plague Lord is available on Xbox LIVE Marketplace for 700 Microsoft Points.

Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords - Revenge of the Plague Lord will offer fans hours of additional gameplay with four brand new Hero Professions: Bard, Rogue, Ranger and Warlock.  Players will adventure with new or existing Heroes to explore an expansive new area on the Southern Map containing more than 25 challenging quests, cast more than 50 new spells and collect more than 40 new magical items as they’re immersed in the compelling story of Antharg, the Lord of Plague and brother to the infamous Lord Bane.  New monsters, bosses and more will challenge veteran and casual fans alike for hours of compelling entertainment. Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords - Revenge of the Plague Lord was initially code-named “Puzzle Quest: 1.5″ to reflect its tremendous amount of content.

Developed by Infinite Interactive Pty. Ltd., Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords artfully blends match-three puzzle gameplay with strategy, character-building elements and a persistent storyline. This unique combination of gameplay elements entices casual and hardcore gamers alike, offering hours of fun-filled gameplay for the whole family.  Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords has received numerous accolades acknowledging the excellence of the game. These include the prestigious Best Downloadable Game at the 11th annual Interactive Achievement Awards, a Best Puzzle Game of E3 2007 Award from IGN.com, and the esteemed iParenting Media Excellent Product Award for 2007. Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords was inducted into the elite Arcade Hits program on July 16, 2008, which offers some of the best-selling Xbox LIVE Arcade for Xbox 360 games at permanently reduced prices.

Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords and Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords - Revenge of the Plague Lord are developed by Infinite Interactive Pty. Ltd. and are rated “E 10+” (Everyone 10 and older-suggestive themes) by the ESRB.

Namco Bandai announced today that the battle to become #1 begins at Comic-Con International: San Diego (July 23-27, San Diego Convention Center) with sneak-peak demos of the Afro Samurai video game.  Based on Spike TV’s critically-acclaimed anime seriesstarring and executive- produced by Samuel L. Jackson, Afro Samurai the game blends urban hip hop culture with traditional Japanese aesthetics to create a brutally fresh cinematic, interactive experience. The playable demos (located in booth #5037) will provide attendees an early glimpse at this high-style action adventure game before its Q1 2009 release for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system. The Afro Samurai anime series is produced by Japanese studio GONZO in association/partnership with GDH K.K. and FUNimation Entertainment.

Adding to the Comic-Con excitement, an Afro Samurai panel will be conducted on Thursday, July 24 (4:15pm – 5:15pm; Room 6B) featuring the creators behind the hit series including star and executive producer Samuel L. Jackson (The Spirit), musical artist The RZA, (Kill Bill), original creator Takashi Okazaki, and executive producer Leo Chu (Spike TV).  This will be a rare opportunity to hear from the talent behind the Afro Samurai franchise and how it translates to different platforms such as video games and the anime series. Hear first-hand about their experiences in the development process, behind-the-scenes anecdotes, and their inspiration for the characters, music and the story. Be the first to see the worldwide premiere of the exclusive Comic-Con trailer, dazzling artwork from the manga, and never-before-seen demos of the pulse-pounding video game.

More about the Afro Samurai video game

In Afro Samurai, follow Afro in his tale of revenge as he searches for his father’s murderer and the holder of the coveted number one headband.  The game follows the plot of the original anime series with added material and background for fans and new comers alike.

Blood is beautiful in this hip hop infused action adventure as Samuel L. Jackson reprises his role as Afro and Ninja Ninja, his wisecracking sidekick.  A striking cross-hatch art style gives Afro Samurai a truly unique look and feel across beautifully animated open environments as he wages war against his adversaries to become number one.  Using an innovative gameplay system, enemy A.I. is affected by the beat of the musical score supervised by The RZA of Wu-Tang Clan fame. These dynamic battles ensure stylized encounters throughout the game that affect the overall tone of gameplay.   Slice and dismember opponents as Afro acrobatically leaps from one location to the next, interacting with anything and everything in the environment to help him on his journey

Konami announced today that Time Hollow is currently in development for the Nintendo DS system.  In this new story-driven adventure game, players journey through a time-bending adventure to solve the mysteries of the present by changing events of the past.

“A new franchise for Konami, Time Hollow delivers a unique adventure that will challenge and intrigue gamers with the combination of a deep storyline and clever puzzles,” said Anthony Crouts, Vice President of Marketing for Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. “The game has a very unique look and style as the writing and cinematics of the game were done by some of the most gifted and popular talent in Japan.”

Featuring a variety of interesting characters that come to life via the words of Junko Kawano, script writer for Suikoden IV, Time Hollow enables players to guide Ethan Kairos on his quest to solve the mysterious disappearance of his family. While on his quest, Ethan comes across the mysterious Hollow Pen - an uncanny object that has the unique power to open portals to the past. Using the stylus pen and dual screen capabilities of the DS, players can use the Hollow Pen to draw portals between past and present. As they progress through their journey, they will encounter a variety of interesting characters that help them guide Ethan on his search for his family. 

Time Hollow will be released in Fall 2008 on the Nintendo DS. For more information, please visit: www.konami.com.

SEGA of America, Inc. and SEGA of Europe today announced Sonic and the Black Knight, an all-new Wii-exclusive adventure.  Part of the storybook series of games that began with Sonic and the Secret Rings, this new title brings Sonic into the world of Arthurian legend and offers the world’s most famous blue hedgehog the chance to become a knight.  Using the unique Wii control system, this exciting game will take advantage of both the Wii Remote and the Nunchuk to offer an interactive experience that Sonic fans will love.

Created by Sonic Team in Japan, this innovative game takes Sonic into a medieval world and arms him with a sword to aid in his effort to save the day. Sonic and the Black Knight hosts an irresistible cast of characters and will teach Sonic fans what it takes to be a true hero and the ultimate knight. With a series of missions set in stunning Arthurian-inspired locations, Sonic and the Black Knight promises a fast-paced adventure that gamers of all ages will enjoy.

“Sonic and the Black Knight is a stunning adventure into an epic land and story that no gamer can resist,” said Sean Ratcliffe, Vice President of Marketing, SEGA of America, Inc. “Gamers will experience all the excitement of mastering a sword and true knighthood, as well as the classic, speedy, 2D/3D gaming action that Sonic is famous for.”

Sonic and the Black Knight, exclusively for the Wii, will be out in Spring 2009.

NAMCO BANDAI today announced Eternal Sonata for the PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system. An award-winning role-playing game inspired by the life of legendary composer Frederic Chopin, Eternal Sonata is set to arrive on the PLAYSTATION 3 system this fall with new quests, new playable characters, new music and more. 

A unique role-playing experience, Eternal Sonata lets gamers travel with 19^th century composer Frederic Chopin as he explores a magical dream world during his final hours among the living. Utilizing a breathtaking cel-shaded graphics engine that gives form to the ethereal beauty of Chopin’s music, the game transports players to a vivid world inhabited by brave heroes, fearsome monsters and stunning environments. The game’s fast-paced battle system features an innovative “light and dark” mechanic which allows players to execute different special attacks depending on whether they stand in light or shadow, and transforms enemies into new and fearsome forms. Combining turn-based and real-time elements, this system allows for creative strategy and engaging action in each encounter, breaking new ground in the role-playing genre. 

Originally released for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, Eternal Sonata arrives on the PLAYSTATION 3 system with a wide selection of new game content, and new cut-scenes and features. The game’s roster of playable characters expands with the addition of Serenade and Crescendo, and players can now customize the look of members of their party with a variety of new outfits. Players can also enjoy several all-new dungeons, and even experience different endings.  

Critically acclaimed upon its original 2007 release, Eternal Sonata was selected as “Best Role-Playing Game” by GameTrailers.com and received “Best Artistic Design” honors from IGN.com at E3 2007. The game was also chosen as a runner-up in the role-playing game category at the Spike TV 2007 Video Game Awards. 

Eternal Sonata will launch for the PLAYSTATION 3 this fall and is currently available in stores for the Xbox 360. For more information, please visit eternalsonata.namcobandaigames.com.  

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Disney Interactive Studios continues to lead the category for developing unique content for kids by bringing elements of Club Penguin, the wildly popular virtual world, to the Nintendo DS™ this holiday season.

“Club Penguin:  Elite Penguin Force on Nintendo DS will perfectly complement the truly dynamic and robust online environment, making it more accessible for kids who love the game and want to constantly stay in contact with aspects of the Club Penguin world,” said Craig Relyea, senior vice president of global marketing, Disney Interactive Studios. “We strive to bring innovative and compelling gameplay experiences for our entertainment franchises to kids on the platforms they play.”

Club Penguin (www.clubpenguin.com) is a snow-covered virtual island where children can play games, interact with friends and engage in a variety of fun activities, all in the guise of colorful, personalized penguin avatars. Launched in October 2005 and acquired by The Walt Disney Company in August 2007, Club Penguin has rapidly built a solid reputation with children and families thanks to its proven commitment to providing a fun and safe online entertainment experience.

Now, Club Penguin and Disney Interactive Studios are extending the experience beyond the web-based game for the first time with Club Penguin:  Elite Penguin Force for Nintendo DS.

“The Club Penguin audience has been asking for a DS game since the very beginning,” said Lane Merrifield, founder and general manager of Club Penguin. ”We’re extremely excited to be able to finally fulfill that request and at the same time create new ways for kids to experience the Club Penguin world.”

Club Penguin: Elite Penguin Force will introduce kids to all new adventures in the Club Penguin world, giving players a chance to complete secret agent missions, solve mysteries and connect with friends in new ways. The game allows players to take on the role of a covert agent in the Elite Penguin Force. Players embark on missions utilizing familiar and all-new gadgets, accessories, vehicles and locations to investigate mysterious events in the Club Penguin world. Club Penguin for Nintendo DS will include Disney’s DGamer allowing kids to engage with other Disney game players in a secure online community whether at home or on the go via their Nintendo DS or home computer.

Players will be able to wirelessly connect with the virtual Club Penguin world using the Nintendo DS to unlock special features and upload coins to their online penguin account.

Published by Disney Interactive Studios and developed by 1^st Playable Productions, Club Penguin has an anticipated ESRB rating of E for Everyone and will be available this holiday season for Nintendo DS.

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SEGA of America, Inc. and SEGA Europe Ltd. today announced a luminous lineup of video games to be presented at E3 2008. SEGA will debut numerous franchises across six platforms, including legendary icons and dazzling new stars, as the company continues to grow and develop both original and high-profile, licensed properties. Show attendees will witness innovative new technology and stellar gameplay on the PLAYSTATION3 computer entertainment system, the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, the Wii system from Nintendo, PC and Games for Windows - Live, the Nintendo DS, as well as the PlayStation2 computer entertainment system. SEGA will showcase the new titles at the Los Angeles Convention Center, Booth #107, as well as host invited guests behind closed doors at a separate meeting location.

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“Once this city used to pulse with energy; dirty and dangerous, but alive and wonderful. Now it is something else.” – Faith. DICE, an Electronic Arts Inc. studio (NASDAQ: ERTS), today announced that writer and story designer Rhianna Pratchett (seen below) is responsible for crafting the intricate script for Mirror’s Edge - a unique first-person action adventure. Pratchett introduces players to Faith, a ‘runner’ in a world where communication channels are highly monitored and the movement of human traffic is closely watched. When Faith’s sister gets framed for a murder she did not commit, Faith finds herself on the edge of the city, on the wrong side of the law.

“It was a great experience working with the team at DICE to help breathe life into Faith; her world, relationships and backstory,” said Rhianna Pratchett. ”My heroines and heroes have always been the ones who were ordinary, but through the events of a story, became extraordinary. Faith is skilled, but she’s certainly not a superhero. She has her flaws, like all of us. In short: she’s real. That’s her appeal.”

Mirror’s Edge delivers players straight into the shoes of this modern day heroine as she traverses the vertigo-inducing cityscape, engaging in intense combat, fast-paced chases and challenging puzzles. With a never-before-seen sense of movement and perspective, players are drawn into Faith’s world.

“We were excited to work with Rhianna to develop the story, setting and character of Faith,” said Owen O’Brien, Executive Producer, DICE. “We were extremely lucky to be able to work with someone who is not only a writer, but also a core gamer, to create the world of Mirror’s Edge.”

Pratchett has been recognized by the videogame entertainment industry for numerous achievements in her 10 year gaming career including being voted by Next-Gen.Biz as one of the 100 most influential women in the games industry. She’s also worked on a number of high profiles games including Heavenly Sword and Overlord that have been nominated for a BAFTA and Develop Award for creation of story, character and new intellectual property. For more information on her work, please visit www.rhiannapratchett.com.

Mirror’s Edge is being developed at EA Digital Illusions CE AB (DICE) in Stockholm, Sweden. This revolutionary new take on the first person action adventure genre will ship this winter for the PLAYSTATION3 computer entertainment system, Xbox 360 videogame and entertainment system and for the PC. This product is not yet rated by PEGI or ESRB. For more information on EA DICE, please visit www.dice.se or www.ea.com.