The Xbox 360 Show

Third Official Movie for Viva Pinata

2006-09-21T12:52:00.000+08:00

If you gutting a helplessly hanging pinata, used to bring a smile to your face, we guarantee that after watching this third official movie of Rare's Viva Pinata, you'd swear off any kind of violence to paper maches.

Check it all out here
Download : Viva Pinata Official Movie

Forza Motorsport 2: Deconstructed

2006-09-21T12:24:00.000+08:00

This is a very chic, very sleek video showing how you can customize your chosen vehicle. You can have a balance of both beauty and power before hitting the tracks. Change your paint and graphics depending on who you want to impress or mislead. But the most important thing is what's under the hood. So make sure that you spend more on what can make you win. A glossy paint finish never won a race. But hey, even if you don't win, at least everyone took a second look.

Download : Forza Motorsport 2 : 3rd Official Trailer

Bringing it Home - TGS and X'06 Style

2006-09-21T11:54:00.000+08:00

Gamers don't have to be on the Tokyo Game Show and X06 guest lists to have a front row seat to all of the action, because this year Xbox brings these event show floors to you. Following on from the success of "E3: Bringing It Home," Xbox is inviting all gamers to enjoy exclusive access via Xbox Live Marketplace to Tokyo Game Show, the largest show from the world's second largest gaming market, and X06, the ultimate Microsoft games showcase.
Starting Wednesday, September 20, through Friday, September 29, connected gamers can access the best content from the Tokyo Game Show in Japan and X06 in Barcelona, Spain, including highlights from both press briefings, daily updates and behind the scenes videos from the show floors as well as the hottest playable game demos and videos in high definition. The majority of this content will only be available until 12:00 a.m. PDT on September 29, so be sure to download everything you want while it is available.

In total, more than 100 pieces of new downloadable content will be available to gamers during the nine day period, including a never before announced major franchise on Xbox Live Arcade. In addition to new playable game demos, there will also be new game videos from the following titles being showcased at Tokyo Game Show and/or X06:

o Call of Duty® 3 (Activision)
o Forza Motorsport 2 (Microsoft Game Studios)
o Kane & Lynch: Dead Men (Eidos)
o Kingdom Under Fire: Circle of Doom (Microsoft)
o Project Sylpheed (Square-Enix)
o Shrek the Third ™ (Activision)
o Viva Piñata (Microsoft Game Studios)
o Plus additional high definition videos from games to be announced at Tokyo Game Show and X06

2006-09-18T14:15:00.000+08:00

Small Arms Gameplay

Here is some of the latest footage of Small Arms the xbox live arcade game that is due out in Nov 2006

Zune Details Announced

2006-09-16T11:08:00.000+08:00

Thought the Zune had nothing to do with the Xbox after it became clear that it was set to be a media player? Well think again, because it seems it will have more in common with the 360 than initially meets the eye. Read the whole article by Xboxic here.

Gamexpert Xbox 360 Cooler King

2006-09-16T11:04:00.000+08:00

Pinpoint Consumer Electronics will soon launch a new cooling device for the Xbox 360: the 'Gamexpert Xbox 360 Cooler King':[QUOTE]The Cooler King is the 3-in-one solution to cooling your XBox 360, connecting up to 4 media players at the same time and playing games with high definition sound and picture quality.1. The internal fan cooling system reduces the operating temperature of the console - helping to prolong gaming sessions.2. At the same time the Cooler King gives you the option to connect VGA, Component and S-VHS cables for high definition gaming, and optical output for digital surround sound.3. You can also connect your MP3 player, digital camera and additional wired controllers through the USB hub multi-tap facility.The Cooler King is easy to install - just plug into the XBox 360 and go! (Comes supplied with a scart lead for connection to standard definition TV).

Keep a eye out for these from your local online stores.

Cover Art for Halo: Ghosts of Onyx Revealed

2006-09-16T11:00:00.000+08:00

Today Bungie Studios and Tor Books have released the cover art for the upcoming novel Halo: Ghosts of Onyx by Eric Nylund. Scheduled for release this November the book will be available just in time for the Holidays. We are sure looking forward to reading this anticipated novel.

Scramble New Screens and Videos

2006-09-15T13:02:00.000+08:00

Scramble is finally released on Xbox Live Arcade and what better way to celebrate it than with a new videos. Developed by Konami and licensed to Stern Electronics Inc., the game is based on the original 1981 horizontally-scrolling, shoot 'em up arcade game

Click here for the Video

Battlefield: Bad Company Screenshots

2006-09-15T12:50:00.000+08:00

Built from the ground-up for next-generation consoles using Digital Illusions’ bleeding-edge Frostbite™ game engine, Battlefield: Bad Company drops gamers behind enemy lines with a squad of renegade soldiers who risk it all on a personal quest for gold and revenge. Featuring a deep, cinematic single-player experience loaded with adventure and dark humor, the game delivers the series’ trademark sandbox gameplay in a universe where nearly everything is destructible.

Tony Hawk's Project 8 Hands-On Preview

2006-09-15T12:40:00.000+08:00

Neversoft granted "IGN writer, Douglass Perry access to a hands-on preview of its newest skateboard game title, the Tony Hawk's Project 8. Meant to be released for PS3 and Xbox 360 this November, the game radically works its way up from an entirely clean slate, and pulls it off amazingly. Check out the article here.

Tiger Woods PGA Tour 07 Demo Available

2006-09-15T12:28:00.000+08:00

For the Xbox 360 owners out there, Xbox Marketplace has just released the demo version of the game. You can try practice swings until the real game hits the stores on October. Perfect that swing! In this version the game doubles the number of courses from the last installment; 12 to be more precise. It's also gotten a bit harder, with more factors involved.

Demo: NBA 2K7

2006-09-15T12:22:00.000+08:00

Now on the Marketplace for Xbox Live members in Canada, Mexico and the U.S. So if your in Australia you are going to have to use you US account.

Demo: LMA Manager

2006-09-15T12:18:00.000+08:00

Free and on Marketplace now. This content is not available in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, Singapore, or Taiwan.

Saints Row DLC Due Next Week

2006-09-13T14:04:00.000+08:00

Saints Row won't be escaping the downloadable content phase that Microsoft and it's publishers are currently pushing - next week will see a batch of new clothing and tattoo designs up on the Marketplace (for an unknown amount of points) and at kiosks (for free). Sadly, there's nothing to enhance the game's 'ending' as yet, but for multiplayer the bunny slippers will be essential.

Here's the full list of goodies:

Clothing:
Samurai Helmet
Leather Eye Patch
Fake Tuxedo Shirt
Short Sleeve Tropical Shirt
Spiked Leather Jacket
Leopard/Tiger Skin Boxers
Leather Chaps
Crazy Bunny Slippers
Skull Ring
Saints Row Medallion
Saints Row Wrist Band

Tattoos:
Panther (Small)
Panther (Large)
Rattlesnake
Biohazard
Ankh
Spider

WWE Smackdown Vs Raw 2007 Special Ed Info

2006-09-13T13:58:00.000+08:00

Some of you WWE fans might still be wondering about getting the WWE Smackdown vs Raw 2007 for the Xbox 360. But maybe you'll think again and get the Special Edition instead. Yes, the PS3 and PSP have their own versions of the game, but it seems that the Xbox 360 is going to have the main event: the Xbox 360 gets the Special Edition of the game.

If you click the picture below, you'd be able to see what you'd be getting with the Special Edition. Namely:

* an embossed metal case
* a bonus disc from the WWE DVD box set
* a limited edition WWE Trivia Book

What WWE fans might be enjoying, though, is the fact that this special edition is (well, as of now, that is) priced the same as the regular version. I guess that just about settles your decision, huh?

The Godfather - New Screenshots

2006-09-13T13:54:00.000+08:00

And here comes more Screens from EA's The Godfather for the Xbox 360. Though the visuals of this game remains remain as bit iffy since there doesn't seem to be especially impressive about it just yet, the new features which EA promises for the next-gen version sound more than promising: All-new missions and contract hits, a new family compound, new venues, and more interaction with key characters. Additionally, an enhanced "Black Hand" combat system is supposed to provide more variety and power for the player's character.Check out all the screenshots here

Call of Duty 2 Sales Top 1 Million in the US

2006-09-13T13:49:00.000+08:00

Call of Duty 2 for the Xbox 360, the game which was recently-named the most played game on Xbox Live has yet another trophy to add to it's glass cabinet today after publisher Activision announced that the Xbox 360 version has sold over 1 Million copies in the U.S territory alone. The award-winning title is the #1 best selling game on Xbox 360 and continues to be among the highest rated games for the platform as shown by the magical 1 Million sales mark. Awesome job Guys, im sure Call of Duty 3 will have similar sales.

2006-09-12T16:45:00.000+08:00

The Xbox 360 Show

Podcast 12/09/06

powered by ODEO

Links from Show

http://playstation.com.au/news/ps3_new_date_announced.jhtml

http://news.teamxbox.com/xbox/11681/EA-to-Offer-Dynamic-InGame-Ads-on-Xbox-360-and-PC/

http://dl.qj.net/Live-Vision-Video-Review-General-Videos-Xbox-360-Videos-Trailers/pg/12/fid/9790/catid/214

http://www.dvdtalk.com/reviews/games/read.php?ID=454

http://www.egamesexpo.com.au/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scramble_(arcade_game)

http://www.dvdcrave.com/

For Direct Download click here

Gears of War Collectors Edition Box and Contents Pics

2006-09-09T15:36:00.000+08:00

“Gears of War” is the first game developed by Epic Games exclusively for Microsoft Game Studios and the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system. “Gears of War” thrusts gamers into a deep and harrowing story of humankind’s epic battle for survival against the Locust Horde, a nightmarish race of creatures that surface from the bowels of the planet.

Included in the collectors edition is a highly collectible embossed metal box which includes the following additional content:

* Destroyed Beauty, the Gears of War hardbound art book
* Bonus special features DVD, including:
* An inside look at the making of Gears of War
* The "Art of Gears of War" trailer
* Gears of War: The Race to E3

Test Drive Unlimited Video Preview

2006-09-05T15:49:00.000+08:00

Test Drive Unlimited Preview

New GOW Screenshots

2006-09-04T12:51:00.000+08:00

Check them out here. Click on slides to enlarge.

NBA 2K7: Gameplay Video

2006-09-04T11:37:00.000+08:00

Just as the title says here is one of the new NBA 2k7 movies. Hope you enjoy it.

Download Movie (File Size 76.64MB)

Forza Motorsport 2 Trailer

2006-09-04T10:56:00.000+08:00

Microsoft released a new trailer for Forza Motersport 2. It’s the trailer that debuted on the GC at a private presentation and is now released to the general public. Game Director Dan Greenawalt also provided commentary during the video. It shows some great features from the game like the ideal racing line, tire simulation, suspension simulation, crash simulation and drafting. Check out the trailer here.

Saints Row Reviews

2006-09-04T10:53:00.000+08:00

So the games now out, should you buy it or not? Read some of these reviews to help you decide.

http://palgn.com.au/article.php?id=5245
http://www.gamepro.com/microsoft/xbox360/games/reviews/79588.shtml
http://consoles.gwn.com/reviews/gamereview.php/id/1003/
http://www.msxbox-world.com/xbox360/reviews/review/50/Saints-Row.html

Assassin's Creed Officially Announced for Xbox 360

2006-09-02T09:56:00.000+08:00

After months of hearing it will be exclusive for the PS3 and the announcement days ago that the title will be available on the PC may have prompted this follow-up. The release of Assassin's Creed for the Xbox 360 will coincide with its PS3 release in the first quarter of 2007 and all us Xbox 360 fans couldnt be happier.

Saints Row : Region Free

2006-09-02T09:42:00.000+08:00

Well it has been confirmed, Saints Row has been released and it is indeed region free. Therefore you can take advantage of this and order it via hong kong at a good deal cheaper ($55)

Heres the link to purchase the game

http://www.play-asia.com/paOS-13-71-fc-49-en-70-1ij3.html

Dead Rising Sells 500,000 Copies

2006-09-01T12:54:00.000+08:00

You’ve read it right, that’s a copy every 5 seconds for the last two weeks. It’s now officially the best selling next generation title for a Japanese developer to date. Why did it become so successful? According to the press release, Capcom improved its marketing sales and business operations functions in North America and Dead Rising’s success is supposedly attributable to these changes. Either way its still another week's wait for Australians to get there hands on this cool title.

2006-09-01T11:52:00.000+08:00

Stranglehold Live Gameplay Footage @ Games Convention 2006

Check out this Awesome new Stranglehold game footage which has come out of the latest game convention in Germany. This is looking like a real hit for those of you who like Max Payne / Matrix.

Whats with the framerates?

2006-09-01T11:34:00.000+08:00

As some of you probably already know, the Brothers in Arms Lepzig video is up on the in the US and Europe. You probably even know that the video has a terrible frame rate that really makes the game look poor. Did you know however that the video has been skipping all over the place on many 360 consoles? Well if you have been lucky enough to avoid this problem, you probably do not. Is it a bug in the Xbox 360 playback? Read more...

New Half-Life 2 Trailer Available Now

2006-09-01T11:27:00.000+08:00

New footage from the second installment in Valve's first episodic trilogy is now available.This trailer reveals a little more about where the trilogy leads after Freeman's time in City 17. It also shows off the Cinematic Physics system enabled in the Source Engine by Gray Horsfield and others at Valve for Episode Two, which in our opinion is one monster of a pretty-picture-maker. This game has a Xbox 360 release date for Q1 2007

Download the trailer here (File Size 107.61 MB)

Enchanted Arms in stores next week.

2006-09-01T11:19:00.000+08:00

Today Ubisoft, one of the world’s largest video game publishers, announced that Enchanted Arms™ has shipped exclusively for the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, and will be available on store shelves this week. For all of us here in Australia it will be available on the 7th September 2006. Check all the info about the game here.

New Oblivion Content

2006-09-01T11:13:00.000+08:00

You can now download from the Xbox Live Marketplace 'Spell Tomes' for 'Oblivion' This pack adds "Spell Tomes" to the world's random treasure. These books grant you wondrous and powerful magic spells, just by reading them!
This content is 80 points and not available in Mexico, Austria, Switzerland, Germany, Spain, France, Italy or Japan.

Far Cry Instincts Predator Demo

2006-09-01T11:01:00.000+08:00

The demo from Far Cry Instincts Predator has became available for download on the Xbox Live Marketplace. The demo is 344.48MB and is available worldwide, Asia excluded. This multiplayer demo can be played via Xbox Live, system link and splitscreen. It’s also featuring 5 different gametypes and 1 map for a maximum fun.

Mini Podcast - Show 1.

2006-08-30T16:51:00.000+08:00

Updated Australian Release Dates

2006-08-29T11:30:00.000+08:00

31st August 2006 Saint's Row

7th September 2006 Enchanted Arms
13th September 2006 Lego Star Wars 2 The Original Trilogy
14th September 2006 Dead Rising
14th September 2006 Madden NFL 2007
21st September 2006 Superman Returns
21st September 2006 Timeshift
28th September 2006 NHL Hockey 2007
28th September 2006 Samurai Warriors 2
28th September 2006 Test Drive Unlimited
28th September 2006 The Godfather
28th September 2006 Xbox Live Arcade Unplugged Volume 1
29th September 2006 Just Cause
30th September 2006 LMA Manager 2006

12th October 2006 Import Tuner Challenge
15th October 2006 Crackdown
19th October 2006 NBA Live 2007
19th October 2006 Tom Clancys Splinter Cell 4 Double Agent
31st October 2006 Bomberman Act Zero

Backwards Compatibility Update

2006-08-29T10:03:00.000+08:00

There is a backwards compatibility update now available over Xbox Live. This free update brings the complete list of original Xbox games that you can play on your Xbox 360 to almost 300.

Rainbow 6 Las Vegas New Screenshots

2006-08-29T09:55:00.000+08:00

Our friends over at xboxworld.com.au have posted 6 new Rainbow 6 Las Vegas Screenshots. Check them all out here. Looks like this game is going to be a big 2006 hit.

Demo:Madden NFL 07

2006-08-28T22:39:00.000+08:00

Xbox Live members can now download a free demo of ‘Madden NFL 07’ from the Xbox Live Marketplace. This free demo is available in the US, Canada, Great Britain, Australia and New Zealand.

Classics Heading Our Way

2006-08-28T16:06:00.000+08:00

Just like they did on the original Xbox, Xbox 360 is to have its own line of "Classics" Come October, the XBox 360 will be selling their Classic series of games in Europe, priced at 30, which is around the same figure XBox Classics are being sold at. All in all, sounds like a good deal, right? Well... the games are Classics because they're cheap... though they aren't 100 awe-inspiring. The first two titles in the Classics line for the XBox 360 will be Kameo: Elements of Power and Perfect-Dark-Zero, which didn't really do all that well across review sites.Still, for that kind of price, it should be a good way to while away time till they announce the next set of Classics releases. Lets hope we get the same out here in Australia.

2006-08-28T11:04:00.000+08:00

From: Steve519 XBLradio

Here it is, its the 2006 keynote for PAX, the Penny Arcade Expo where Alex St. John, one of the original leaders behind the Manhattan Project and of course, DirextX, tells the tale of how the Xbox came to be, and the dirt that comes with it.

Audio can be found in the Podcast Section

News from PAX

2006-08-28T10:39:00.000+08:00

Our good friend Steve519 from XBLRadio has posted some new movies and screenshots from PAX over in Seattle, Washington. For those that dont know PAX or Penny Arcade Expo is a yearly expo for video gaming but as opposed to many "Industry Only" events this one can be attended by the public. So heres some of the media from Steve519 including some new Splinter Cell Double Agent Footage.

Pictures from PAXS 2006 Can anybody spot Trixie?

New Splinter Cell Movies
1 / 2 / 3

New Castle Crashes Footage
1

New Splinter Cell Double Agent Screenshots

2006-08-27T09:21:00.000+08:00

Check out the latest Splinter Cell Double Agent Screenshots. The game is due for release come September 2006.

New Podcast Intro

2006-08-26T15:52:00.000+08:00

I've been working hard to get things up and running for the Podcast show. Below is the audio from the opening of The Xbox 360 Show. Hope you like. The podcast will air beginning the 1st week of September and will be produced weekly. A Podcast player is available in the right hand margin making it easy to stream the show direct from the site or download the mp3 file.

powered by ODEO

Tony Hawk's Project 8 Hands-On

2006-08-26T12:18:00.000+08:00

A new hands-on review is up at Xboxic.com for the next installment of the Tony Hawk's series. The series went downhill (no pun intended) with the last couple of iterations but Neversoft promised to change their ways and yours truly was able to check on their progress here at the GC. So, did they stick to their word? Read the whole article here.

New Marketplace Content

2006-08-25T00:06:00.000+08:00

Well it's been a busy night for the Xbox Live Marketplace tonight as 2 big demo's have been released. Go get your hands on the new Test Drive Unlimited demo and also Just Cause demo. Hope you've all been saving your bandwidth as there is more on the horizon as well with a rumoured demo of Pro Evolution Soccer 6 (PES6) to be out shortly.

GC 2006 :: Joytech Xbox 360 Control Centre

2006-08-24T14:47:00.000+08:00

The basic idea behind the Control Centre 540C is to allow you to connect multiple devices through one input, in this case up to five round the back and another round the front (for temporary connections such as video cameras)... nothing new there. But the Control Centre 540C uses only component or composite inputs, meaning all you hi-def gamers will be well catered for. Read the whole article here.

New Call Of Duty 3 Screenshots

2006-08-24T12:00:00.000+08:00

Below are the latest Call of Duty 3 screenshots. There's a huge difference between this and COD2 if you look at the graphics style, and I can't wait to play it.

GC06: Splinter Cell Double Agent Gameplay Footage

2006-08-24T11:08:00.000+08:00

One of the guys from Xboxyde is currently at the Leipzig Game Convention in Germany and while walking through the Ubi booth, he noticed someone playing Splinter Cell Double Agent, on a level he had never seen before. You'll see Sam Fisher, wearing his good ol' green goggles, jumping off a plane to a very dark place... Beautiful.

Download the gameplay footage here or get the streamed version here

Fifa Soccer 2007 : New Game New Engine

2006-08-24T09:53:00.000+08:00

FIFA Soccer 07 on Xbox 360 will have a new and dynamic engine that's supposed to blow other soccer games out of the water. The engine has spent two years in development to ensure that it will redefine the way sports videogames play and feel. It's a physics and data-driven technology wonder that'll allow individual player movement, authentic athletic motion, and never-before-heard-of responsiveness. Read the full article here

Test Drive Unlimited Finished

2006-08-24T09:40:00.000+08:00

Test Drive Unlimited for the Xbox 360 is complete. That means, it'll only be a few weeks before you get your hands on the game, and race your friends down the electronic asphalt road. You'll be able to drag race your heart out in the safety of your own home. This will be the first Massively Open Online Racing (MOOR) available anywhere. You can go wherever you want, race whomever you want in a spectacular tropical setting. A new demo of the game will also be up on the Marketplace for the 25/08/06 for all the people wanting to check out a final build. The game is due out here in Australia on the 29th September

Xbox 360 '06 Peripheral Peek

2006-08-23T14:48:00.000+08:00

The guys over at Gamevideos.com have posted up some footage of the new Xbox 360 peripherals. The have video footage of new Xbox 360 accessories, including the steering wheel, camera, wireless headset, and the HD DVD Player. Check it out below

Lost Planet Trailer

2006-08-23T10:39:00.000+08:00

Earlier this year we were able to play a early build of "Lost Planet" for the Xbox 360. Even at a young stage the game looked refined and something to behold. Well today from the Leipzig Games Convention a new trailer for this game has surfaced. In this trailer, Capcom introduces some of the gameplay options, which let you walk around in the snow killing all sorts of insectoid baddies with different weapons, from a shotgun to a full-fledged Arnold Schwarzenegger giant machine gun. You also get a taste of the vehicles you can ride in the game which includes not only a tank, but a full fledged robot with jump-jets.

Download: Lost Planet Trailer- Leipzig Games Convention

Texas Hold'Em Review

2006-08-23T10:24:00.000+08:00

The guys over at xbox360.qj.net have post one of the first hands on reviews of this much anticipated xbox Live Arcade game. Theres a lot of infomation over there so go check it out now. Link Texas Hold'Em is set to be released this Wednesday 23/08/06 at Xbox Live Arcade. Free download for the first 48 hours, 800 Microsoft Points afterwards. It's a safe bet to say the Marketplace will be flooded those first 48 hours. No need to quote odds on that.

Xbox Live Arcade Unplugged

2006-08-21T11:09:00.000+08:00

I just noticed the guys over at www.dvdcrave.com have listed something interesting. Coming out on the 28 September 2006 is the Xbox Live Arcade Game.

Xbox Live Arcade Unplugged Volume 1 gives you the chance to play the great collection of Xbox Live Arcade Games that were previously only available via the Xbox Live Service.

The amazingly fun and accessible package comes with the following popular games: Geometry Wars, Wik: Fable of Souls, Outpost Kaloki,
Bejeweled 2, Hardwood Backgammon, Texas Hold Em. The product is going to sell for $44 AUD

Xbox Live Vision Camera

2006-08-19T13:22:00.000+08:00

A new article has just been written on the soon to be release Xbox Live Camera. The article shows infomation regarding video chat, video conferencing, video email, Digimask face mapping and Gesturetek. Read the whole article here.

New Chromehounds Content

2006-08-19T12:57:00.000+08:00

Today saw the release of new content on the Marketplace for the game Chromehounds. The add-on included the following parts

Light arms 01
Heavy arms 02
Light arms 03
Light arms 04
Spacer 01
Light arm s05
Spacer 02
Generator 01
Spacer 03
Color Pattern 03

The real stir about this content has been the pricing. If you heard the uproar over the GRAW Chapter 2 content just wait for this. The content is 100 points a piece, making the whole package, if you wished to buy them all, 1000 points ($16.50 AUD)
To see some of the many angry Xbox 360 users comments about the Marketplace pricing, have a look here

Xbox 360 on Right Track

2006-08-18T13:48:00.000+08:00

Microsoft are pretty chuffed with themselves at the moment. Not only do they expect to shift 10 million Xbox 360 units by Christmas 2006, but apparently the Xbox 360 has a peripheral attach rate of a whopping 2.9 accessory units per console, which is a US record for any console considering the machine has only been out for nine months. Another interesting statistic is that on average each 360 gets 4.6 games for its library. Not bad for something people were comparing to the Dreamcast (sales wise) only ten months ago.

This all seems quite amazing, but even more amazing is the fact Microsoft expect to shift up to 15 million 360’s by the end of the current fiscal year in June 2007. This would give them a massive leap over Sony (unless Sony have a very strong supply chain set up in time for Christmas) and would put them so far ahead it would take a while for everybody else to catch up. Only time will tell.

Mass Effect - New Artist Drawings

2006-08-18T13:43:00.000+08:00

Check out some of the latest Mass Effect Screenshots below. Mass Effect is a Revolutionary Action-RGP set in the future, where a living galaxy comes to life in what can only be described as a futuristic epic adventure.

New Zune Details Emerge

2006-08-18T13:27:00.000+08:00

iLounge has published a detailed report on Zune's interface and features. A whole list of features can be found here. The Zune will include Wi-Fi, FM Radio, Album Art and a Custom User Interface. The Zune will launching in the US for the Christmas season (and hopefully not to much longer afterwards for us here in Aus)

Xbox Live Camera

2006-08-17T09:57:00.000+08:00

Microsoft's Gamefest, being held this week in Seattle, has released new details on the launch of the Xbox Live Vision video camera for the Xbox 360 including the fact that it will be bundled with a free gesture-based game - TotemBall. It has a release date in the US of 19th September with a price of $39.99 USD ($52 AUD). The Australian release date has not been set yet.

Check out all the latest news about the camera here

Enchanted Arms

2006-08-16T16:24:00.000+08:00

Being the next release title for Xbox 360 here in Australia here are a few gameplay videos as well as some comments and scores from a few reviews.

XBOX 360 - Enchanted Arms

Play Magazine Score 80/100
[eM] is most impressive when placed in its proper context: From Software managed to craft a sprawling, 60-hour-long, traditional J-RPG on a next-generation platform in an incredibly short ammount of time....and it's actually pretty darn good. [Mar 2006, p.61]

GameBrink Score 75/100
[EM]-eNCHANT aRM- has a predictable, yet entertaining, plot featuring a small cast of likeable characters, a moderate sized world that will take about 40 hours to explore, and a good battle system. Sure the graphics are a mixed bag, music is strangely absent, and the encounter rate is high, yet it's still a nice start for next-gen rpgs. [JPN Import]

Edge Magazine Score 60/100
It’s a unique offering for 360 owners – as it would have been for Xbox – certainly, but one who’s highlights can’t match those of the RPGs currently burning brightly on PS2. [Apr 2006, p.87]

New Mad Tracks Interview

2006-08-16T16:01:00.000+08:00

One of the hard decisions the Load, Inc. development team had to make was whether to delay the release of the game or not, twenty days before launch, in order to incorporate XBox Live multiplayer support. They decided to delay it much to peoples disappointment but read here to find the reasons why.
The main points we are looking forward to include:

Besides the "basic" release of Mad Tracks, which will feature fifteen challenges (a mix of races and mini-games), the game will also throw in two "add-ons" (Mad Tracks Encore and Mad Tracks Bravo) simultaneously, each with fifteen challenges, for a grand total of 45 challenges (23 minigames and 22 races).

The pickups and powerups are stackable (coming in packs of one or three), and have no time limit for use before disappearing.

The game environment will be open, "all things are physical" and can be knocked around. Bourdain even hinted that players will be required to roam around for some achievements.

Mad Tracks is about 48Mb, plus 11Mb per add-on. So far, Load, Inc.'s looking at about 4-8 players on XBox Live multiplayer. The team's System Link multiplayer, in favor of split-screen 4-way home multiplayer.

The team's also looking to add other enhancements, such as voice support.

Xbox 360 HD-Drive Pricing

2006-08-16T12:52:00.000+08:00

The guys over at DigiTime have released some new info on the much anticipated Xbox 360 HD-Drive. The unit is heading for a December launch here in Australia with a price tag of $200US ($280 AUD). The unit combined with the Xbox 360 will bring the current Xbox 360 pricing in line with the Sony's PS3 sporting its HD technology known as Blu-Ray. There has been no official announcement from Microsoft yet but we will let you know as soon as we hear something more official.

Updated Australian Xbox 360 Release List

2006-08-16T12:51:00.000+08:00

31st August 2006 Madden NFL 2007
31st August 2006 Saint's Row

7th September 2006 Enchanted Arms
14th September 2006 Dead Rising
14th September 2006 The Godfather
15th September 2006 Lego Star Wars 2 The Original Trilogy
15th September 2006 Samurai Warriors 2
21st September 2006 Superman Returns
28th September 2006 NHL Hockey 2007
29th September 2006 Just Cause
29th September 2006 Test Drive Unlimited
29th September 2006 Timeshift

5th October 2006 NBA Live 2007
12th October 2006 Import Tuner Challenge
19th October 2006 Tom Clancys Splinter Cell 4 Double Agent
27th October 2006 LMA Manager 2006

3rd November 2006 Pro Evolution Soccer 6
24th November 2006 Bomberman Act Zero
24th November 2006 Eragon

15th February 2007 Battlestations Midway

Capcom Oversight Leaves SDTV Owners Angry

2006-08-16T12:36:00.000+08:00

According to numerous frantic posts over at the Capcom BBS, there are quite a few very disappointed XBOX 360 owners stuck with Capcom games that were only tested on HDTVs. For whatever reason Capcom failed to test the game on standard definition television sets before releasing it for sale.

The result,is a game that looks sub-par and in a game that has no dialogue, like this one, players are stuck guessing or lip reading in order to follow the story of the game.

Check out the screenshot to understand the problem. To Capcom defense, they have confirmed the problem and are hard at work on a patch to fix it.

Just Cause Demo Announced and Dated

2006-08-16T12:29:00.001+08:00

Although Microsoft and the Xbox Live team hate that developers put a date to downloadable content, Avalanche Studios announced today that a Just Cause demo is in the works and should be available on Live Marketplace on August, 24.

Just Cause is a massive, free-roaming action game that puts you in the sholes of a Latin field operative and specialist in regime change backed by a top secret government agency that will overthrow the corrupt government of San Esperito - a rogue South American state suspected of stockpiling Weapons of Mass Destruction.

This is one game we here at Xbox 360 Australia are looking forward too.

New Texas Hold'Em News

2006-08-16T12:29:00.000+08:00

Its seems as though some news has just come out about Texas Hold'Em that wasnt suppose to be out just yet. There is news that Texas Hold'Em will be free for the first 48 hours and if you miss this window you will need to play 800 Microsoft Points for it. It has however been pushed back to the 23/08/06. The full article can be read here

Small Arms XBLA Pictures

2006-07-26T10:04:00.000+08:00

The guys over at XboxXyde have release the first screenshots of Small Arms.

Gastronaut Studios has released these four colorful images from their upcoming title known as Small Arms. This side scrolling fighting will allow up to four players to beat each other to death, and it looks great considering it's only an arcade title. Planned for release this Autumn, players can take control of cyborg cats, assassin pigs and even mutant chimney sweeps as they beat everything in sight to a pulp. Screenshots can be found here.

The Outfit : Collaterial Damage Pack

2006-07-26T09:54:00.000+08:00

Those of you who have the game "The Outfit" will be pleased to know the add-on pack is now available. Originally this was going to be 500MS points but has since being release for free. Read all about the add-on pack here

New Saints Row Screenshots

2006-07-25T13:24:00.000+08:00

With the demo just around the corner, many readers just cant get enough on Saints Row, here are some more screenshots until the demo comes out.

Xbox Live Arcade Stats (unofficial)

2006-07-25T11:50:00.000+08:00

A gamer known as C4Lukins has posted some unoffical xbox live arcade stats over on the Neogaf Forums. There are some interesting figures here for sure, to see how he calculated the stats and the figures, read about it here

Half Life 2 details including screenshots and video

2006-07-25T11:19:00.000+08:00

Valve recently announced during the EA summer showcase 06 the contents of the Half Life 2 package for the Xbox 360. So far we have found out we will be getting not only the confirmed Half Life 2 : Episode 2 but also a revamped Half Life 2 and Episode 1. In addition to that they will also be including the popular Half Life 2 mod : Team Fortress 2 and a puzzle based mod called Portal (similar to Prey) Now there is one hell of a gaming package.

Check out the latest screenshots
and the small movie below.

Half-Life 2: Episode Two Trailer One *Extended*

Review : Joytech Nitro Racing Wheel

2006-07-25T11:02:00.000+08:00

Over at Xboxic, the guys have posted a review of one of the first generation racing wheels for the Xbox 360. The Joytech Nitro Racing Wheel connects into the 360 via a simple USB connection. The wheel comes with a choice of simple suction to hold it to the table or a leg support system. The review puts the wheel through it paces with Burnout Revenge and also PGR3. To find out how this product stacked up, check out the full article here

DOA4 demo now on marketplace

2006-07-25T10:57:00.000+08:00

Every good console launch needs a good fighting game and for the Xbox 360 that was DOA4. Created by Techmo, DOA4 has outstanding graphics, amazing level design, and addicted gameplay. If you havent played the game download the demo now from Xbox 360 marketplace. The download is 680meg.

New Tony Hawk's Project 8 footage.

2006-07-24T14:13:00.000+08:00

The guys over at XboxXyde got there hands on some new Tony Hawk's Project 8 footage. So far the game is looking very promising with Activision wanting to get back to basics with this title. Check out all the latest video's here.

Just Cause - Xbox 360 New Footage

2006-07-24T13:41:00.000+08:00

A new trailer has been released onto the internet. Currently in development by Avalanche Studios, and due to be published by Eidos, it is a new 3rd person action adeventure .
Just Cause offers the freedom to tackle your assignments however you want. The action takes place in an incredibly detailed world which consists of over 250,000 acres of mountains, jungles, beaches, cities and villages. The island can be explored by land, sea and air, as you will have at your disposal one of the most varied and exciting array of vehicles ever seen in a video game. Cant wait for this game, its looking like a sure hit.

New Dead Rising Media

2006-07-24T13:20:00.000+08:00

Want to see some more media of Dead Rising?. The guys over at www.ign.com have just put up some new gameplay videos of this upcoming title due for 15th September release. Go get your latest Zombie fix here

Forza Motorsport 2 Customization Trailer

2006-07-24T13:09:00.000+08:00

Turn 10 Art Director John Wendl's Show-and-Tell of FM2's Deep Customization Features

The first film you saw was the 2006 E3 trailer now we turn that focus to car customization, one of Forza Motorsport's most celebrated features. First, check out the video here, let it sink in, examine the details, and click into the story to get commentary by Turn 10's art director John Wendl on what you just saw...

Viva Pinata New Screenshots

2006-07-24T10:54:00.000+08:00

The guys over at http://www.totally360.com/ have put up some new screenshots of Viva Pinata for Xbox 360. This puzzle/party game is currently being developed by Microsoft and Rare and is due out later this year. Check out the new screenshots here. The offical Viva Pinata site can be found at http://www.vivapinata.com

Top Xbox Live games for week of 17/07/2006

2006-07-24T10:48:00.000+08:00

Here is the stats straight from Major Nelson

Xbox 360 Top Live Games
1 Call of Duty 2
2 Ghost Recon 3
3 Chromehounds
4 Oblivion
5 BFMC
6 Lord of the Rings: BFME2
7 Final Fantasy XI
8 Prey
9 PGR3
10 LOTR, BFME II Demo

Original Xbox Top Live Games
1 Halo 2
2 Battlefield 2: MC
3 Counter-Strike
4 Splinter Cell Chaos
5 Rainbow Six 3 BA
6 Pro Evolution Soccer 5
7 Star Wars: Battlfrnt 2
8 Madden NFL 2006
9 Forza Motorsport
10 Splinter Cell Chaos

Halo Faceplate

2006-07-24T10:36:00.000+08:00

The guys over at GameStop.com have just started to advertise the first of the Halo faceplates. Customised faceplates are all the rage currently with many being made in limited numbers or "Collecters Additions" Many people currently have a customised faceplate with popular (but limited ones) being the PGR3 / GRAW / COD2 faceplates. So here is the first Halo faceplate, but unfortunately it is only a pre-order with a date for it being 24/10/06. Looks pretty cool dont you think?.

AquaZone coming to the 360

2006-07-24T10:11:00.000+08:00

What is AquaZone I here you say ... AquaZone, an aquarium simulation game originally made for the Sega Saturn console in 1996, it will allow you to take control over your very own virtual Aquarium, you will need to take care of the day to day runnings of being a responsible (or irresponsible) fish owner. AquaZone will have many varieties of fish to keep as pets as well as downloadable content from the marketplace. My only final question about this game is why?. AqauZone will start shipping in September 2006.

New Texas Hold'Em Info

2006-07-22T14:32:00.000+08:00

In a interview done by Joystiq with Greg Canessa of XBLA we learnt some more details about Texas Hold'Em.

Besides Lumines Live!, one of the other games people are looking forward to is Texas Hold 'Em poker. Talk about what's in store for that.

First of all, it won't be free. We haven't decided on what the final price will be, but it will not be free. As far as incentives, we want to make sure gamers play with a purpose with a game like this that doesn't have any actual risk/reward. We will have a persistent bankroll system tied to your gamertag that will allow those who have built up enough money to enter higher-quality tournaments. Then, if you run out of money, you have to enter the freebie tournaments to build your bankroll back up.

Alien Hominid and Castle Crash coming to Xbox Live Arcade

2006-07-22T13:48:00.000+08:00

Two new games have been confirmed to be coming to Xbox Live Arcade in the early part of 2007. The first title name "Alien Hominid" and the second being "Castle Crash"

Alien Hominid was originally coded in flash and came out on Newgrounds.com back in 2002. The console version for Xbox Arcade will feature upgraded graphics and sound as well as bigger bosses, more multiplayer games, large levels and all new weapons. Cant wait for this one..

Castle Crashers is Behemoth’s new 4-player side scrolling action brawler, the company debuted the game in alpha form running on the GameCube at last year’s Comic-Con Not much else is known about this title but we will let you know as we hear more.

So it looks like Microsoft is serious about its Xbox Live Arcade and we as gamers are in for a treat as these old classics keep coming out.

Dear Sony, Microsoft, Nintendo

2006-07-22T13:13:00.000+08:00

What follows are three letters from an imaginary gamer to Nintendo, Sony and Microsoft asking them for things that we really deserve to know the answers to, a few suggestions, and some general observations on their behavior of late.

Check out the letters here. Im sure we all agree on what the letters have to say.

Brian Lara Cricket 2007

2006-07-22T12:29:00.000+08:00

Brian Lara Cricket 2007 for Xbox 360 is in development by Codemasters and is heading for a March 2007 release. Check it out. Here are the first screenshots of the game and info , courtesy of SPOnG.com

Chromehounds Ranking

2006-07-21T16:33:00.000+08:00

Got Chromehounds - how does your hound design rate? Need to build a better hound and want ideas? Go check out this site to see what true customisation looks like. Rate the best and upload yours to share http://www.sega.com/gamesite/chromehounds/gallery.php

Latest Xbox 360 Charts.

2006-07-21T16:02:00.000+08:00

Australian Chart for week ending 16/07/06 - Retail Sales

Dead or Alive : Xtreme 2

2006-07-21T11:23:00.000+08:00

Some new screenshots are available showing those lovely ladies from the DOA series. Wearing well umm very little as always. This time there on Jacks island and are ready for all out fun, competing with each other in activities such as Personal Water Craft Races, Water Slider, Rope Pulling, and Hip Wrestling. Check out the screenshots here and here

Microsofts Quarterly Finance Report

2006-07-21T11:19:00.000+08:00

Microsoft today released it quarterly earnings and shared some of its Xbox 360 sales statistics via a power point presentation. Microsoft announced it shipped 1.8 million Xbox 360 units in the last quarter bringing the number of Xbox 360's sold since launch to around 5 million. Whats more interesting is the uptake of Xbox live with over 3 million current uses. They are well on there way to the 10 million mark which they have there eye set on. With the holiday season approaching fast its now just up to Sony and Nintendo to make there mark with gamers.

Test Drive Unlimited Pricing

2006-07-21T10:38:00.000+08:00

Today Atari have announced the pricing of there new MMO racer for the Xbox 360. Test Drive Unlimited will only retail at around $55 AUD ($40 USD) in a surprise move that has been welcomed by many. When asked to comment on this they stated "Innovation should be available to everyone, not a privilege for those can afford high price tags". They also have guaranteed to bring out car updates every month for six months via the Marketplace. Its good to see a game who's price is set for the masses.

New Turok 360 screenshots and info

2006-07-20T15:37:00.000+08:00

After Joseph Turoks ship is shot down over the mysterious planet, he finds himself fighting off unknown, well trained soldiers and ravenous, unpredictable creatures. His only goal is to survive. Not much info is out to much yet on this past hit series but here are some screenshots from xbox360.qj.net and teamxbox.com thats showcase Turok's next- gen makeover. Pictures here and here

PC vs Xbox 360 : Prey Comparison

2006-07-20T11:53:00.000+08:00

Over at Gamespot today they have a interesting article on that never-ending debate. Are PC games better than the 360. Well have a look for yourself. They put the 360 up against low, mid and high range spec computers using the newly released game Prey. Click here to read the whole article.

World Snooker Championship 2007

2006-07-20T10:26:00.000+08:00

The guys over at www.xbox360.qj.net have posted some new images of World Snooker Championship 2007 for both the Xbox 360 and PS3. In this game you will be able to create your very own player or choose a known professional and compete in licensed tournaments from around the globe. Read the full article and see the screenshots here

Chromehounds content now available on the Marketplace.

2006-07-20T10:13:00.000+08:00

The first batch of downloadable content for Sega's Chromehounds has hit the marketplace. The downloads include Light Arms 02, Heavy Arms 01, Assist Parts 01, and Colour 02. The great thing about this download is that it is free - a way of saying thankyou by Sega to all those who bought this product.

Clive Barkers Jericho coming to Xbox 360

2006-07-20T09:51:00.000+08:00

If you have read any of Clive Barkers original horror storys including The Books of Blood or The Thief of Always and Abarat 1 and ii or watched any of his classic horror films he wrote, produced and directed like Hellraiser or Nightbreed then you know the reason we are excited about hearing about his new project - Jericho. Clive Barker's Jericho revolves around the mysterious reappearance of a lost city in a remote desert. Along with the city, a new evil emerges, a evil as old as the earth. A highly trained special forces squad must track down these evil forces before they destroy all of humanity. The game is in current development for Playstation 3 and Xbox 360 by Codemasters

Gears of War Update.

2006-07-19T20:46:00.000+08:00

Over at www.xbox360.ign.com there is some new info outlining the main characters in the game. Check out the profiles of Marcus Fenix, Dominic Santiago, Minh Young Kim and Augustus Cole all with full screenshots. Check them out here.

Colin Mcrae : DIRT

2006-07-19T20:32:00.000+08:00

A new name, new screenshots and a official launch window. Codemasters the guys behind the successful Colin McRae series are back. Promising to be the most diverse title in the series yet, the game will span locations throughout the world including Pikes Peak International course and will feature the series' trademark point-to-point races as well as a slew of off-road events. As always cars will range from 2WD, 4WD, Classic and RWD rally cars as well as Dakar-style trucks and 4x4s. Check out the new screenshots from IGN here . Pic1 Pic2 Pic3 The games release date is set for a 2007 for the PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 and PC.

Cloning Clyde Now available

2006-07-19T16:08:00.000+08:00

As promised by the guys over at Xbox Live here is the second of the xbox live arcade titles to be released during "Xbox Live Arcade Wednesday" A free demo is up for all regions for Cloning Clyde. If you like the game you can purchase it for 800 points.

Need for Speed : Carbon Dated

2006-07-19T15:31:00.000+08:00

The guys over at www.xbox360.qj.net have recently heard news from EA Black Box in Vancouver that it will be releasing it next NFS title named Need for Speed : Carbon on Nov 10, 2006 on all platforms. For the first time the game history it will based on a real city notably Carbon Canynon in California. Check the full article out here.