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Looking at this week's release list, I'm struck by two thoughts… first, damn there isn't much to talk about hitting retail in the next seven days. Second, the one title worth talking about is more than qualified to be the first game to ever earn the coveted "Pick of the week" designation twice. That game is the "Game of the Year Edition" of Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare.

What can I say about Call of Duty 4 that hasn't been said elsewhere? While it's campaign may be short (but sweet), the game is, in my opinion, the best multiplayer first person shooter available on the current generation of consoles. With the Game of the Year Edition, you not only get CoD4, but you'll also get a token that entitles you to a free download of the Variety Map Pack (which will be available via the Xbox Live Marketplace on April 3rd) - simply put, if you like shooters and don't have this one yet, now is the perfect time to grab it.

Interestingly enough, nothing else on this week's list could even remotely be considered interesting, so this is going to be a short weekly highlights section.

• Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare - Game of the Year Edition (360)
  • The game that dethroned Halo 3 on the Xbox Live weekly charts returns to the Xbox 360 - with a free code for the upcoming Variety Map Pack.

Be sure to check out the below list for all the titles you can expect to find at retail this week.

• Australia Zoo Quest  (PC) - 4/4/2008
• Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare - Game of the Year Edition (360) - 4/2/2008
• Civil War Mysteries  (PC) - 4/1/2008
• Ford Racing Offroad (PC) - 4/2/2008
• Great War Nations: The Spartans (PC) - 4/1/2008
• Mana Khemia: Alchemists of Al-Revis (PS2) - 4/1/2008
• Octomania  (WII) - 4/1/2008
• Rafa Nadal Tennis (DS) - 4/1/2008
• Riddle of the Tomb (PC) - 4/1/2008
• Toy Shop  (DS) - 4/2/2008
• Women's Murder Club  (PC) - 4/4/2008

Please keep in mind these are only estimated release dates and could change at any time.

Well gang, Grand Theft Auto IV is finally almost here, and in celebration of that fact, Rockstar has released a new trailer for the game. Since you’ve probably already figured out that a video on a Sunday means I’m a bit rushed, I’m going to skip the pleasantries and get right to the video - enjoy the show courtesy fo the fine people at GameTrailers.com!

Grand Theft Auto IV is scheduled to release for the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 on April 29th, 2008..

• Grand Theft Auto IV - Official website
• Grand Theft Auto IV: Everyone’s A Rat Trailer - GameTrailers.com

Given Epic Games' support for previous versions of the series, news like this should come as no surprise to PC owners of Unreal Tournament 3. PlayStation 3 fans however, will no doubt be thrilled to hear that the first official map pack for UT3 is now available as a free download from the PlayStation Store.

"Download the first official bonus pack for Unreal Tournament 3 and expand your game with three new maps that cover the full spectrum of environments and play styles. Morbias is the deathmatch arena that started it all, perfectly suited for anything from small intense duels to chaotic free-for-all matches. The Unreal Tournament classic, Facing worlds was one of the most played maps in gaming history. This beloved sniper map makes its return alongside an intricate new capture the flag map, Searchlight, designed for both z-axis rooftop runs and strategic indoor gameplay. Returning classics and fresh new designs let you experience Unreal gaming like never before." - PlayStation.com

I don't know about you, but I'm feeling all warm and fuzzy inside. Free is good, free UT3 maps is better and well, free UT3 maps on a console? Well, that's just a little slice of heaven.

As mentioned at the start of the article, PlayStation 3 owners can obtain the map pack via the PlayStation Store - as for you PC gamers, you'll need to head over to either the official Unreal Tournament 3 website or your favorite file download site to get your free map dinner. 

• Epic Games - Company website
• Unreal Tournament 3 - Official website
• Unreal Tournament 3 Bonus Map Pack - Product description at PlayStation.com 

Sony has made the latest update to the PlayStation 3’s system software (v2.20) available for download via the PlayStation Network and PlayStation.com. This time around, the big story is BD-Live / BD 2.0 support, making the PlayStation 3 compatible with the latest Blu-Ray Disc features. Let’s take a look;

"The PLAYSTATION 3 System software version 2.20 update includes the following:

BD Live support

Blu-ray Disc Profile 2.0 (BD-LIVE) is now supported. > See details.

Copying playlists

You can now copy playlists that you create in (Photo) and (Music) to a PSP® system. > See details.

 

Other new or revised features in version 2.20: 

Settings

• The way you register (pair) Bluetooth® devices has changed, and you can now register more devices. > See details.
• A [BD Internet Connection] setting has been added under [BD/DVD Settings]. > See details.
• An [Audio Output Device] setting has been added under [Remote Play Settings]. > See details.

Photo

• You can now display an image while editing a playlist.

Music

• You can now play a music track while editing a playlist.

Video

• You can now play DivX and WMV files that are 2 GB or larger.
• You can now display subtitles when playing DivX files.
• You can now resume playing a DVD from the point where you previously stopped it. > See details.
• A [Mosquito Noise Reduction] option has been added under [AV Settings] in the control panel for standard DVDs. > See details.
• You can now play BD-R version 1.2 (LTH* BD-R) discs.
  *LTH, or low to high, is a recording method that supports organic dye, write-once BD-R media.

Network

• You can now change some PS3™ system settings during remote play.
• [Save Target] has been added as an option under [File] in the browse mode menu of the Internet browser. This option lets you save a file that is linked from a Web page, such as an image or video file, or other type of file, to your PS3™ system's hard disk drive or storage media.
• The Internet browser now displays some Web pages faster.
• Using the Internet browser, you can now play a linked video file* as it is being downloaded.
  *Some types of video files cannot be viewed in this manner and must be downloaded completely before playback." - PlayStation.com

For further information or to obtain the update via the internet, check out the link below.

• System Software Update (2.20) - PlayStation.com

The Xbox Live Arcade returns from it's one week hiatus with the release of TiQal. From what little I know of it, TiQal would appear to be yet another 800 point ($10) drop puzzle along the lines of Tetris. Needless to say, with the actual Tetris Splash already available in the Live Arcade, I'd suggest downloading the demos of both games before committing to buy this one.

Title: TiQal
Developer: Slapdash Games, LLC
Publisher: Slapdash Games, LLC
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 3/26/08
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 800 points ($10)
Rating: E (Everyone) - Alcohol reference
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"In TiQal, you have been chosen to make an epic journey through many obstacles to seek the help of the gods. The village of TiQal is in deep trouble! Destroy the block walls in your way by moving your magic Dropper left and right, rotating blocks, and dropping them into place to create squares of color. Build up multiple squares to score bonus points and unlock helpful power-ups. Do you have the skill and courage to complete your quest and save TiQal from certain destruction?

• Loads of excitement: The full game includes 120 action-packed levels for you to master.
• Fun and challenging: TiQal is addictive and easy to learn, yet presents challenging gameplay.
• Power-ups galore: Unlike other games in the genre, TiQal includes fourteen formidable power-ups to assist you in your block destruction.
• Multiplayer modes: Play with a friend in the co-op Adventure mode, or go online and challenge a buddy." - Xbox.com

As for last week's Live Arcade release, since there wasn't one, I have nothing to say here at all! See you next week, same time, same bat channel. Enjoy!

Just a quick note here - the "Heroic Map Pack" for Halo 3 (previously priced at 800 points) is now available for free to all Xbox Live members via the Xbox Live Marketplace.

• Halo 3 - Official website 
• Halo 3 Heroic Map Pack - Product description at Xbox.com

Those fine people over at Stardock have made a demo of their space RTS Sins of a Solar Empire available for download from many of your favorite local file-serving sites. The demo weighs in at 549.1MB and includes two tutorial maps, two small maps (that can support play against two AI civilizations), one medium sized map (that can support play against three AI civilizations) as well as a limited-play version of the campaign mode set to a 90 minute timer.

If you're a fan of space based strategy games, this is definitely one you're going to want to try. While the game can be a bit daunting at first glance, once you begin to get a feel for it, you'll find yourself unable to put it down - it definitely has that "just five more minutes" factor going for it.

• Sins of a Solar Empire - Official website 

Well, what can I really say about this week's release list besides "It's thin"? I mean, there are certainly a few titles here that could go either way, but there's nothing in there that just makes me want to run out to a store. If I had to choose one, I'd probably go with Command & Conquer 3: Kane's Wrath as my pick of the week, but I would also tell you it was a somewhat weak recommendation as I've never been a fan of the series.

Moving on, it's time for our usual look at some of this week's more notable releases…

• Command & Conquer 3: Kane's Wrath (PC)
• The battle between the GDI, Scrin and the Brotherhood of Nod continues in this expansion to Electronic Arts long running RTS series - expect plenty of campy cutscenes!
• Final Fantasy VII: Crisis Core (PSP)
  • Square-Enix returns to the well with another Final Fantasy VII tie-in game, this time we get a prequel of sorts featuring Zack - a character who we only met in flashbacks in the original PlayStation title. From what I've seen, early reviews were positive, so if you have a PSP and have been looking for a JRPG, this one should be for you.
• Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword (DS)
  • Ryu Hyabusa comes to the small screen along with the Ninja Gaiden franchise. If it's anything like it's console cousin, expect lots of fun and frustration.
• Universe at War: Earth Assault (360)
  • Another PC RTS makes the trip to the Xbox 360… I just wish a USB keyboard and mouse layout would follow.

Below is the week's full release list - try not to get too excited..

• Australia Zoo Quest (PC) - 3/26/2008
• Backyard Baseball 2009 (DS) - 3/26/2008
• Command & Conquer 3: Kane's Wrath - 3/25/08
• Dark Sector (360) - 3/26/2008
• Dark Sector (PS3) - 3/26/2008
• Escape From Paradise City (PC) - 3/26/2008
• Final Fantasy VII: Crisis Core (PSP) - 3/26/2008
• Guild Wars (Platinum Edition) (PC) - 3/28/2008
• Harvest Moon DS Cute (DS) - 3/26/2008
• Naruto: Ultimate Ninja 3 (PS2) - 3/26/2008
• Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword (DS) - 3/26/2008
• Obscure: The Aftermath (WII) - 3/26/2008
• Octomania (WII) - 3/26/2008
• Opoona (WII) - 3/26/2008
• Universe at War: Earth Assault (360) - 3/26/2008
• Viking: Battle for Asgard (360) - 3/26/2008
• Viking: Battle for Asgard (PS3) - 3/26/2008
• Warriors: Orochi (PSP) - 3/26/2008

Please keep in mind these are only estimated release dates and could change at any time.

Since it’s been a pretty slow weekend for news, instead of a post, you’re going to get a bit of a history lesson. Today is Easter, and as such, we’re going to talk about video game Easter Eggs - specifically the very first one. Back in the late 1970’s, a battle was raging at Atari between the company itself (which had recently been acquired by Warner Communications) and the game programmers who worked for the company. In short, the programmers wanted both credit for, and royalties on, the works they were creating - it was a hot-button issue at the time, and something that directly led to the founding of Activision, the first third party developer, and many other companies during that period.

While many would leave Atari over that dispute, Warren Robinett wasn’t yet one of them. Robinett was working on a ground breaking title for the Atari 2600 (known as the Atari Video Computer System at that time) which was based on many of the text based fantasy adventure games around at the time. Despite being told that it was an impossible task, Robinett created a game that was truly revolutionary for it’s time, and one that is still playable even today. That game was Adventure, and it went on to sell over one million copies - a massive number for any game at the time.

Robinett knew that he wouldn’t see the slightest bit of credit from Atari for the game he created, and thus decided that he would leave his mark somewhere where no one would ever know to look for it - just a small hidden protest against the current situation at Atari. He left his name in a secret room which was normally inaccessible to the player. Shortly after handing in the completed program in June of 1979, Robinett quit Atari never thinking that his protest would be found. He was wrong.

In 1980, a young boy in Salt Lake City, Utah happened to perform the required actions that would allow the player to enter the hidden room where Robinett had signed his name - and promptly wrote to Electronic Games magazine. Once printed, there was no stopping the news from breaking, not that Robinett was concerned;

"Nope, they couldn’t punish me. Well, they could garnish my royalties — oops, no royalties. Well, they could remove my name from the box — well, no, it was never on the box. Well, they could at least remove the offending code from future cartridges. That would have cost $10,000 to make a new ROM." - Warren Robinett in an interview posted at The Jaded Gamer

While there’s a bit of contention as to who came up with the term "Easter Egg" to refer to this type of hidden surprise, there is no question that it stems from this incident - and there’s no question that Atari ran with the publicity generated by the article and started adding easter eggs to many of it’s titles. (I’d go so far as to say they took it too far when they started publishing titles like Raiders of the Lost Ark and the SwordQuest series which were essentially games about finding easter eggs.)

As for Robinett, he would go on to form "The Learning Company" in 1980 - a company focused on educational games.

So there you have it, now you know where the whole easter egg craze got started and why. More importantly, in case you’ve never seen it, I’ve attached a video GameTrailers.com has done on the subject, which includes a look at that hidden room. Be sure to amaze your friends with your new found knowledge.

For more information on Adventure, Warren Robinett and the easter egg story, check out the below links.

• Adventure - Wikipedia entry
• Adventure: An Interview with Warren Robinett - Wikipedia
• Adventure: The Original Easter Egg - GameTrailers.com
• Warren Robinett’s Homepage - Warren Robinett
• The Learning Company - Wikipedia entry

Those of you who have been having issues with the Xbox 360 version of Rockstar's Bully: Scholarship Edition rejoice - a patch that should fix the sound, video and lockup issues many have been experiencing is now available as an automatic update via Xbox Live.

To get the patch, simply connect your console to Xbox Live and pop the Bully disc into your drive - you'll be prompted to download the patch before you can begin playing. Enjoy!

• Bully: Scholarship Edition - Official website

A demo of Sega's Sega Superstars Tennis for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 501MB.

• Sega Superstars Tennis - Official website

A demo of Sega's Condemned 2: Bloodshot for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 714MB.

• Condemned 2: Bloodshot - Official website

Just a quick note here for all of you stalking the Xbox Live Arcade in search of a new game this morning - It appears that there will be no "new" XBLA release this week, so unless you plan on picking up one of the two games reaching "Arcade Hits" status this week (as we filled you in on yesterday, Assault Heroes and Doom will be dropped to 400 points ($5) each), there's nothing to get excited about.

Move along, nothing to see here.

• Two More Xbox Live Arcade Price Drops Incoming - nylatenite.com
• Xbox Live Arcade Titles Become "Hits"! - Gamerscore Blog
• Spring Fever is in the Air – Xbox LIVE Arcade Adds New Arcade Hits and Gives You a Sneak Peek at Upcoming Titles - Official press release
• Assault Heroes - Product page at Xbox.com
• Doom - Product page at Xbox.com

Microsoft has announced that two more titles will be joining the ranks of it's price reduced Xbox Live Arcade Hits series this Wednesday. Both Assault Heroes and Doom will see their prices slashed from 800 points ($10) to 400 points ($5) - not a bad deal if you've been thinking of grabbing either of the two titles

"Whether you’re avoiding spring cleaning or revving up for spring break, be sure to check out the latest Arcade Hits coming to Xbox LIVE Arcade on Wednesday, including “Assault Heroes” and “DOOM.” The Arcade Hits program offers some of the best-selling Xbox LIVE Arcade games at permanently reduced prices. They can be found within the Xbox LIVE Arcade section of the new Game Store, making it easier than ever to build a library of great downloadable games.

• “Assault Heroes” (Sierra Online). Become the only surviving member of an elite special forces unit searching for a secret underground lab. Play the mission alone or fight side-by-side with a friend in the two-player cooperative mode. The winner of IGN’s Xbox LIVE Arcade game of the year for 2006, “Assault Heroes” will be available for 400 Microsoft Points.
  
• “DOOM” (id Software). Originally released in 1993, “DOOM” introduced millions to the white-knuckle excitement of the first-person shooter (FPS). Relive the classic demon-blasting action with up to four players over Xbox LIVE*, complete with 5.1 surround sound and smoother graphics. “Doom” will be available for 400 Microsoft Points." - Microsoft press release

While Doom may not have held up to the test of time that well, Assault Heroes is definitely worth the soon to be reduced price. - even when you consider the fact that Assault Heroes 2 is coming soon. It's a great twin-stick top down shooter that captures that classic arcade feel - check it out, I'm pretty sure you won't be disappointed. 

• Xbox Live Arcade Titles Become "Hits"! - Gamerscore Blog
• Spring Fever is in the Air – Xbox LIVE Arcade Adds New Arcade Hits and Gives You a Sneak Peek at Upcoming Titles - Official press release
• Assault Heroes - Product page at Xbox.com
• Doom - Product page at Xbox.com

Things are looking a little bit better this week, as a few titles worth talking about should be finding their way to retail. Of those titles, one stands out from the rest as being worthy of the coveted "pick of the week" status, and that title is Rainbow Six: Vegas 2.

Now I don't know why Ubisoft chose to revisit Vegas instead of finding a new exotic locale, but if you have to visit a city twice, you could certainly do a lot worse than Las Vegas. If the original Rainbow Six: Vegas is any indication, this one should once again give fans of team-based tactical first person shooters something to look forward to.

Let's take a closer look at some of this week's more notable releases, shall we?

• Hot Shots Golf: Out of Bounds (PS3)
  • Sony brings it's long running cutesy golf series to the PlayStation 3.
• Metal Gear Solid: The Essential Collection (PS2)
  • If you're drooling over the thought of playing Metal Gear Solid 4, but haven't played some of the earlier games in the series yet, this is the pack for you - you get MGS, MGS2 and MGS3 in one convenient bundle.
• Rainbow Six : Vegas 2 (360 & PS3)
  • Join Rainbow Six as they once again take on the baddies in Las Vegas.

Below is the week's full release list - try not to get too excited..

• Condemned 2: Bloodshot (PS3) - 3/19/2008
• Diary Girl (DS) - 3/19/2008
• Fantasy Aquarium (DS) - 3/18/2008
• George of the Jungle (WII) - 3/19/2008
• Go Pets: Vacation Island (DS) - 3/19/2008
• Hot Shots Golf: Out of Bounds (PS3) - 3/19/2008
• Karaoke Revolution: American Idol Encore (Bundle) (PS3) - 3/19/2008
• Lost Empire: Immortals (PC) - 3/19/2008
• Lost in Blue 3 (DS) - 3/19/2008
• Merv Griffin's Crosswords (PC) - 3/18/2008
• Metal Gear Solid: The Essential Collection (PS2) - 3/19/2008
• Pro Evolution Soccer 2008 (WII) - 3/19/2008
• Rainbow Six : Vegas 2 (360) - 3/19/2008
• Rainbow Six : Vegas 2 (PS3) - 3/19/2008
• Rainbow Six: Vegas 2 (Limited Edition) (360) - 3/19/2008
• Rainbow Six: Vegas 2 (Limited Edition) (PS3) - 3/19/2008
• Samurai Warriors 2 (PS2) - 3/19/2008
• Sega Superstars Tennis (360) - 3/19/2008
• Sega Superstars Tennis (DS) - 3/19/2008
• Sega Superstars Tennis (PS2) - 3/19/2008
• Sega Superstars Tennis (PS3) - 3/19/2008
• Sega Superstars Tennis (WII) - 3/19/2008
• Singstar 90's (Bundle) (PS2) - 3/19/2008
• Singstar 90's (Game Only) (PS2) - 3/19/2008
• World Championship Cards (PSP) - 3/18/2008
• Worms: A Space Oddity (WII) - 3/18/2008
• WWII Aces (WII) - 3/21/2008

Please keep in mind these are only estimated release dates and could change at any time.

Turbine, Inc. has officially anounced that the first expansion for Lord of the Rings Online, it's mmog based on Tolkein's legendary trilogy, will be available at retail this fall.

"Turbine, Inc. and Codemasters Online today unveiled Volume II of The Lord of the Rings Online™, the first retail expansion for the award-winning massively multiplayer online roleplaying game (MMORPG).  Announced in Birmingham, the childhood home of J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings Online™: Mines of Moria™  will expand the online world of Middle-earth to let players explore the ancient underground cities of the dwarves, battle epic characters in the depths, face off with the Watcher, be a part of the fateful release of Durin’s Bane and more! The Lord of the Rings Online expects to open Volume II of its epic story in the fall of 2008 with an increased level cap, two new classes and the introduction of a unique item advancement system.

“The Mines of Moria is one of the most epic settings in all of fantasy fiction,” said Jim Crowley, president and CEO of Turbine, Inc. “No one delivers more quality content than Turbine and with our journey into Moria, we will raise the bar even higher.  We are adding vast amounts of  content, debuting massive new environments and unveiling numerous unique feature sets, like item advancement, which will create entirely new dimensions of compelling game play and social interaction which are unique to The Lord of the Rings Online experience.” " - Turbine Entertainment press release 

Lord of the Rings Online: Mines of Moria will open the second volume of the trilogy and includes not only the six "chapters" included with the expansion at it's release, but access several more as of yet unreleased chapters. In addition, the expansion will also see the addition of two new character classes (Rune-Keeper and Warden), an increased level cap of 70 and the ability to forge "legendary" items.

For more information on both Lord of the Rings Online and the Mines of Moria expansion, including the full text of the press release, check out the links below.

• Turbine, Inc. - Company website
• The Lord of the Rings Online: Mines of Moria Unveiled at Connect 08 - Official press release
• The Lord of the Rings Online - Official website
• The Lord of the Rings Online: Mines of Moria - Promotional website

Sony has made the latest update to the PlayStation 3’s system software (v2.17) available for download via the PlayStation Network and PlayStation.com. Unlike the version 2.10 update, which leaned heavily towards enhancing the system’s video playback features, this update seems to be focusing more on fixing some technical issues with select PS3 titles. Let’s take a look;

The PLAYSTATION®3 system software version 2.17 (with 2.10) update includes the following:

 

“Voice Changer

The Voice Changer feature has been added to voice / video chat. > See details.

Other new or revised features in version 2.17 (with 2.10):

Music

• You can now select [Type 3] as an option under [Settings] > [Music Settings] > [Bitmapping]. > See details.
• A new pattern has been added for the visual player. > See details.

Video

• DivX and VC-1 (WMV) have been added to the types of files that can be played. *1
• Blu-ray Disc Profile 1.1 is now supported. *2
• [BD Data Utility] has been added. *3

*1 - To play VC-1 (WMV) format files, you must go to  (Settings) >  (System Settings) and set [Enable WMA Playback]. - Copyright-protected files or files that were encoded by using DivX 3.11 cannot be played.
- Files that are 2GB or more cannot be played.

*2 - You can now use the “Picture in Picture” feature that enables playback of two videos at the same time with some Profile 1.1-compatible Blu-ray Discs. Features available vary depending on the disc.

*3 - Management data that is used by the Blu-ray Disc is saved here.

Game

• New for 2.17: System stability during use of some PLAYSTATION®3 format software has been improved.” - PlayStation.com

For further information or to obtain the update via the internet, check out the link below.

• System Software Update (2.17) - PlayStation.com

In honor of Saint Patrick's Day, a free song pack from Dropkick Murphy for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 versions of Guitar Hero III is now available for download via the Xbox Live Marketplace and PlayStation Store.

• Guitar Hero III - Official website 

A demo of 2K Sports Major League Baseball 2K8 for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 953MB.

• Major League Baseball 2K8 - Official website

I’ve made no secret in the past that Assault Heroes was one of my favorite "original content" titles to hit the Xbox Live Arcade. The game managed to capture that old school top-down arcade shooter feeling almost perfectly, and very much reminded me of a game I once thought of creating as a teenager. It’s that same fondness that brought a smile to my face in the early hours of this morning when I discovered that a sequel to the game will be hitting the Live Arcade sometime this spring.

Assault Heroes 2 looks to take all the fun of the original and mix in new elements such as upgraded weapons with the ability to commandeer enemy vehicles. Don’t take my word for it though, check out the trailer below courtesy of GameTrailers.com.

For more information on Assault Heroes 2, check out IGN’s exclusive first look at the title as linked below. Assault Heroes 2 is slated for release on the Xbox 360 via the Xbox Live Arcade in Spring 2008. No other platforms have been announced at present.

• Assault Heroes - Official website
• Assault Heroes 2 - Wikipedia
• Assault Heroes 2: First Look - IGN
• Assault Heroes 2 Trailer - GameTrailers.com

Microsoft returns to the two-game formula for Xbox Live Arcade Wednesdays with the release of Bliss Island and Brain Challenge. I'm not exactly feeling up to snuff at the moment, so I'll keep the game descriptions brief and let the demos for each game do the talking.

Looking at the somewhat brief description and photos provided for Bliss Island, I can only assume that it's some type of collection of mini-games, and in truth, the fact that Microsoft's marketing department couldn't come up with more to say about it strikes me as a bit of a bad omen. My advice to you is to definitely try the demo before paying 400 points ($5) on this one.

Title: Bliss Island
Developer: PomPom
Publisher:Codemasters Online
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 3/12/08
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E (Everyone)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"Bliss Island is a fun and engaging pick-up-and-play game, and once you pick it up, you can't put it down! Delve into the world of Bliss Island and help Hoshi win a day off as you take on over 25 unique challenges, spread across nine crazy levels. Mastered single player mode? Challenge your friends online and see who really is the Bliss Island champion.

• Pick up and play: Experience more than 25 unique challenges across nine crazy levels.
• Play with friends: Jump into online multiplayer and challenge your friends online." - Xbox.com

Next up, we've got Brain Challenge, and as you've probably guessed, it's a knockoff of the whole Brain Age concept. Don't act so surprised, you had to know that one of these would be coming along eventually. If you've got a Nintendo DS, I'd say spend the money on a used copy of the original Brain Age (Don't settle for imitations!) instead of the 800 points ($10) being asked for this one - this way you too can get in on the "Blue…BLUE… BROOOOOO!" jokes.

Title: Brain Challenge
Developer: Gameloft
Publisher: Gameloft
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 3/12/08
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-4 / 2-4 online
Full Game: 800 points ($10)
Rating: E (Everyone)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"Get your brain in shape with fun daily exercises—these challenging and entertaining puzzles act like a vitamin boost for your brain. Brain Challenge™ is more than just a game, it's your personal coach for mental fitness!

Twenty different games in five categories (Memory, Visual, Logic, Math, and Focus) will train all areas of your brain. Keep track of your progress every day, and easily evaluate your level of brain activity. Brain Challenge is the easy and enjoyable way to keep your brain alert.

• Multiplayer fun: Challenge friends with four-player offline and online multiplayer modes.
• Game variety: Thirty games are broken down into different categories—Memory, Visual, Logic, Math, and Focus.
• Training room: Play all the mini-games within each category freely.
• Creative mode: Relax by exploring your brain's creative abilities through five games.
• Stress mode: Test your abilities under stressful conditions.
• Personal coach: Choose your favorite coach to accompany you through all your brain development steps and develop a unique relationship with him or her.
• Brain charts: View your overall performance and progression with detailed stats and graphs" - Xbox.com

As for last week's Live Arcade release, I never got a chance to try Rocketmen: Axis of Evil, so you're on your own! I'm going to go find a bed and collapse in it now. Enjoy!

A few days ago we reported that Sega was apparently up to something for the Dreamcast's 10th anniversary via www.Dreamcast.com. Before running that story, we had followed several articles around the 'net and checked the site's domain registration information to make sure that it was registered to Sega, and all seemed on the up and up.

While I can't read Japanese, according to Kotaku, Sega is reporting that they have nothing to do with what's going on over at Dreamcast.com. Thankfully, the site's link has been down since we reported on it, so I'm not feeling uber-guilty about it (ah, the benefits of updating a day late and a dollar short), but as the Kotaku article mentions, if you did manage to sign up before the site went under, you may want to both change the password on the e-mail account you used and prepare for the potential deluge of spam/phishing e-mails.

Once again, SEGA SAYS THEY HAVE NOTHING TO DO WITH THE DREAMCAST.COM SITE - DON'T BOTHER SIGNING UP OR RESPONDING TO ANY E-MAIL FROM DREAMCAST.COM - all you'll probably get for your troubles is spam and phishing e-mails.

I understand some people were also given an "e-mail address" from the site after signing up. If you even remotely used a password similar to any other ones you use when setting it up, be sure to change those passwords as well. As usual,we'll keep you posted should more information become available.

• Phishing: Sega Didn't Ask About Your Dreamcast, Some Dirty Rotten Scoundrel Did - Kotaku

I am completely underwhelmed. To say this week's release list doesn't exactly inspire me to jump up and run down to my local game shop would be an understatement. I won't go as far as to not name a pick of the week, but I will say that I make this pick somewhat reluctantly and would advise you to just stick with a rental this week and use the cash to either pick up some game you've missed or hold put for a future release.

That said, Condemned 2: Bloodshot gets the nod as pick of the week, based solely on early reviews and the fact that I know many people who really enjoyed the first title. Early word is the game once again scores on the spooky atmosphere, so thriller fans will definitely want to give this one a look.

Now let's take a closer look at some of this week's more notable releases;

• Condemned 2: Bloodshot (360 & PS3)
  • The sequel to 2005's Condemned: Criminal Origins creeps up on the 360 and PS3 this week - Join former investigator Ethan Thomas as he tries to come to grips with the events of the first game while searching for his missing ex-partner.
• Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: Ring of Fates (DS)
  • It's a Final Fantasy game - naturally that means people will be lining up to buy it.
• House of the Dead 2 and 3 Returns (WII)
  • Sega's classic shooters find their way to the Wii. Pray the movies don't follow.

Below is the week's full release list - also completely unplayable - unless you're playing some gaming version of Scrabble.

• Buzz Jr. Robo Jam (Bundle) (PS2) - 3/12/2008
• Buzz Jr. Robo Jam (Game Only) (PS2) - 3/12/2008
• Buzz! The Hollywood Quiz (Bundle) (PS2) - 3/12/2008
• Buzz! The Hollywood Quiz (Game Only) (PS2) - 3/12/2008
• Condemned 2: Bloodshot (360) - 3/12/2008
• Condemned 2: Bloodshot (PS3) - 3/12/2008
• Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: Ring of Fates (DS) - 3/12/2008
• House of the Dead 2 and 3 Returns (WII) - 3/12/2008
• Imperium Romanum (PC) - 3/12/2008
• Insecticide (DS) - 3/12/2008
• Nanostray 2 (DS) - 3/12/2008
• Pro Evolution Soccer 2008 (360) - 3/12/2008
• Pro Evolution Soccer 2008 (PS2) - 3/12/2008
• Pro Evolution Soccer 2008 (PS3) - 3/12/2008
• Pro Evolution Soccer 2008 (PSP) - 3/12/2008
• Ratchet and Clank: Size Matters (PS2) - 3/12/2008
• Seven Kingdoms Conquest (PC) - 3/12/2008
• Wild Arms XF (PSP) - 3/12/2008
• World Championship Cards (PSP) - 3/12/2008
• WWE Smackdown vs Raw SuperStar (3 Game Bundle) (PS2) - 3/12/2008

Please keep in mind these are only estimated release dates and could change at any time.

Well, I can't say what is going on over at Sega, but they apparently have something up their sleeves to coincide with the 10th anniversary of the Dreamcast's launch. 

Reports from around the internet have been coming in for the last few days stating that visitors to Dreamcast.com were being greeted with a message asking them whether or not they still own a Dreamcast. Clicking past that screen apparently led to some form of registration page where the user was asked to enter their console's serial number. Unfortunately, it also appears that the volume of responses was so heavy that Sega has, at least temporarily, shut down access to the registration page.

"Due the high volume of account requests, the service will be temporally suspended." - Dreamcast.com

While I'm not going to believe any rumors of a new Sega console, I would love to know what game Sega is playing at. While it's time on the scene was short, I would never say I didn't get my money's worth out of it and then some - unlike some other Sega products I could mention. (*cough* Sega CD *cough*)

Before I start rambling on about the likes of Soul Calibur, NFL2K, Resident Evil Code: Veronica, Crazy Taxi and the rest, I'll cut this one short and get with the linkage. 

I'll be sure to report back on this one as soon as more information on what Sega is up to becomes available.

• Do You Still Own a Dreamcast? - Dreamcast.com 

We've got yet another original game coming to the Xbox Live Arcade as Rocketmen: Axis of Evil takes it's place in the Live Marketplace. As with a few of the other recent original titles, I really hadn't heard much about this one prior to it's announcement, but from what I can tell, it's an overhead view futuristic action RPG - I'm guessing it's something like Gauntlet with an RPG flair.

In Rocketmen, up to four players battle the forces of the Legion of Terra (this one is already losing points in my book just for the bad pun) using characters created from a mix of three races and three classes. Now, I don't know about you, but this one sounds like it could go either way. Personally, I get the feeling it's going to stink, but that's just from looking at the screenies and reading the product description - I have not actually tried this game as of yet.

What I'm saying here is that before you shell out the 800 points ($10) being asked for this one, do yourself a favor and download the demo first. Better safe than sorry I always say. That said, let's get on to the particulars.

Title: Rocketmen: Axis of Evil
Developer: A.C.R.O.N.Y.M. Games Inc.
Publisher:Capcom
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 3/05/08
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-4
Full Game: 800 points ($10)
Rating: E10 (Everyone 10+) Fantasy Violence, Mild Suggestive Themes
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"Join Nick Sion, Alec Mink and the Alliance of Free Planets in their white-knuckled, frenzied struggle to free the Solar System from the tyrannical grip of the Legion of Terra! Rocketmen®: Axis of Evil provides non-stop multiplayer action with role-playing game elements, including customizable characters and an engaging story, all wrapped in the game's distinctive cel-shaded art style. Play with up to four players in co-op mode and blast anything that moves.

• Customize your character: Create, customize, and level up your own individual Rocketmen characters with new items, abilities, and looks.
• Multiplayer action: Join with friends to save the galaxy in four-player cooperative play locally or online.
• Your choice: Choose from three races: Human, Mercurian, or Venusian, and from three classes: Warrior, Engineer, or Outcast.
• Explosive action: Simple, addictive, and highly explosive gameplay blasts onto your TV in high-definition with plenty of levels, hordes of enemies, and lots of fun.." - Xbox.com

As for last week's Live Arcade release, if you're a fan of difficult shmups, then Triggerheart Exelica is for you - those who prefer a more casual shooter experience will probably not find the game nearly as entertaining. Like I always say, be sure to try the demo before you buy a title you may not be sure about - and I'd probably recommend it even when you think you will absolutely love a game.

Yes folks, God of War III is coming to the PlayStation 3. Naturally, right about now you're saying something snarky and wondering how this is news - after all, I don't think anyone has ever doubted that Sony would be bringing God of War III to the system. 

Well, what you may not know is that apparently the game is "coming soon" - at least that's the word according to the instruction manual for God of War: Chains of Olympus on the PSP. You see, IGN is reporting that much like the back cover of the God of War II manual which announced that Chains would be coming, the back of Chains' manual shows the familiar God of War "Omega" logo with the PS3 logo and "coming soon" written under it.

While there's certainly been no official word from Sony as to when God of War 3 will be hitting retail, one does have to wonder how long it's been in production and if this could be Sony's counterweight to Microsoft's Gears of War 2 come November. Regardless of what the situation is, we'll be sure to keep you updated on any developments as we hear about them.

• God of War III Ad - IGN 

Wow, it's been awhile since I've felt this conflicted over what game should get the "coveted" Game of the Week honors. We've got no drought of contenders at retail this week, with no less than six titles competing for the honor.

When all is said and done, there really was only one choice - Super Smash Bros. Brawl for the Wii. Some might say I made that pick based solely on the fact that R.O.B. is going to be a playable character, but I assure you, it's more than that. The game has received glowing reviews in Japan and it's been awhile since I've seen the Nintendo faithful this worked up over a title. (Okay, I'll admit it - maybe the fact that R.O.B. will be in the game helped a bit too)

That doesn't take away from this week's other games in any way. If I owned a PSP, I'd most certainly be picking up God of War: Chains of Olympus this week, and if you ask one of my buddies, he'd tell you that there is no other choice but MLB 08: The Show for the PlayStation 3. It's just one of those weeks where there's a little bit of something for everyone. Let's take a closer look at some of this week's retail titles;

• Army of Two (360 & PS3)
  • Electronic Arts takes a two-man team approach to the mercenary shooter genre. The game certainly seems built for a co-op experience, but how well will it play if you're going it solo?
• Bully: Scholarship Edition (360 & WII)
• Rockstar Games' re-invisions it's PlayStation 2 hit Bully for the Xbox 360 and Wii. Get schooled!
• God of War: Chains of Olympus (PSP)
  • Kratos returns in this prequel to the events that take place in the first two God of War titles. If you've been on the fence about picking up a PSP, this one should make your mind up for you.
• Major League Baseball 2K8 (360, PS2, PS3, PSP & WII)
  • 2KSports comes up to the plate once more with this years offering of their baseball series.
• MLB 08: The Show (PS2, PS3 & PSP)
  • Sony swings for the fences with the latest edition of their excellent baseball series.
• Super Smash Bros. Brawl (WII)
  • Nintendo brings another of it's signature franchises to the Wii - this time with a huge cast of characters!

Be sure to check out the below list for all the titles you can expect to find at retail this week.

• Anno 1701: Dawn of Discovery (DS) - 3/5/2008
• Arctic Stud Poker Run (PC) - 3/4/2008
• Army of Two (360) - 3/5/2008
• Army of Two (PS3) - 3/5/2008
• Blokus Portable: Steambot Championship (PSP) - 3/4/2008
• Bubble Bobble: Double Shot (DS) - 3/4/2008
• Build-a-lot (PC) - 3/5/2008
• Bully: Scholarship Edition (360) - 3/4/2008
• Bully: Scholarship Edition (WII) - 3/4/2008
• Chicken Hunter (DS) - 3/5/2008
• Company of Heroes: Gold (PC) - 3/5/2008
• Eco Creatures: Save the Forest (DS) - 3/5/2008
• God of War: Chains of Olympus (PSP) - 3/5/2008
• Homie Rollerz (DS) - 3/6/2008
• Imagine: Figure Skater (DS) - 3/5/2008
• Imperium Romanum (PC) - 3/5/2008
• Let's Ride: Friends Forever (DS) - 3/4/2008
• Major League Baseball 2K8 (360) - 3/4/2008
• Major League Baseball 2K8 (PS2) - 3/4/2008
• Major League Baseball 2K8 (PS3) - 3/4/2008
• Major League Baseball 2K8 (PSP) - 3/4/2008
• Major League Baseball 2K8 (WII) - 3/4/2008
• MLB 08: The Show (PS2) - 3/5/2008
• MLB 08: The Show (PS3) - 3/5/2008
• MLB 08: The Show (PSP) - 3/5/2008
• Mystery Dungeon: Shiren the Wanderer (DS) - 3/5/2008
• Ninja Reflex (WII) - 3/4/2008
• Ninja Reflex (DS) - 3/5/2008
• Petz Bunnyz (DS) - 3/5/2008
• Silent Hill: Origins (PS2) - 3/5/2008
• Spitfire Heroes: Tales of the Royal Air Force (DS) - 3/6/2008
• Super Smash Bros. Brawl (WII) - 3/9/2008
• Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War - Soulstorm (PC) - 3/5/2008
• World Championship Cards (PSP) - 3/5/2008

Please keep in mind these are only estimated release dates and could change at any time.

Just a quick follow up to last Thursday's story. Gamefly has confirmed to us that "for the time being" they will once again be including protective cardboard mailer inserts with all rentals.

"For the time being, we have decided to implement the cardboard covers in our mailers once again. Should things change in the future, we will notify our customers." - Gamefly support

While they gave no reason for the change, I'd have to assume that it's due to an unacceptable increase in the number of discs being damaged in transit since they stopped using the mailers back in June of 2007. That's just a guess though - absolutely nothing official behind that.

• Gamefly Resumes Using cardboard Mailer Inserts? - nylatenite.com 

The wait is over… at least for Xbox 360 Call of Duty 4 owners. Infinity Ward has finally released the long awaited patch for some of the problems plaguing the console version of CoD4. Players will be automatically prompted to receive the download if connected to Xbox Live the next time they play the game. (PC Owners please note; I believe all of these fixes have been available for the PC for quite some time now, so if you haven't patched CoD4 yet, you may want to look into it)

Number one on my wish list was a fix for the accuracy problems that have so far made using a sniper's rifle or ACOG scope more of a detriment than a benefit. According to the patch message, those problems should now be gone. I haven't tested the ACOG scopes yet, but from my experiences, the standard sniper rifles have definitely seen an increase in accuracy, making them once again an enjoyable option.

If that had been the only fix, I would have been a happy man - but Infinity Ward decided that happy wasn't good enough. According to Infinity Ward Community Director Robert "FourZeroTwo" Bowling, the company fixed quite a few issues in yesterday's patch. Let's take a look;

"New Kill Cams - Everything that can kill you has a Kill Cam now. Grenades, Airstrikes, Claymores, C4, M203 Rounds, RPGs, anything. So jump online, get owned alittle and check them out. They’re awesome, especially Grenades and M203 shots that go across the map and through a window.

Host Migration - Host migration was added, so now when the host leaves you won’t get dropped back to your own lobby by yourself. Everyone will stay together. Host Leaves, everyone returns to lobby, selects next best host, and the game starts up again. No more re-inviting, re-partying up because a host ended the game.

Improved Sniper Accuracy - The Sniper rifle accuracy has been improved. No more, WTF? shots now. Your cross hair will be a better representation of where your shot will ultimately land. Try out a sniper class today, let us know how the new accuracy feels.

Improved ACOG Scope Accuracy - ACOG scopes accuracy on any weapon has been improved. Test it out, throw it on one of your classes and give it a go.

Upgraded Spectator Cam - Now when you’re a spectator you have the option to follow in 3rd person or 1st person. As well as rotate 360 degrees around the player you’re watching. Next time you’re dead in Search and Destroy and just watching your team mates do stuff you know you can do better, now do it in 1st person or rotate around them.

Quick Mute Option - Now you can easily and quickly mute players in-game or in-lobby without ever going through the Xbox Live blades. Just go to their gamertag on screen and hit ‘A’ to quick mute in lobby, or via the in-game scoreboard if playing. Quick. Easy. Salvation!

In addition to these feature additions there will also be:

Improved Network Performance For Larger Games - 18 player games now require more bandwidth to host, resulting in smoother performance for players.

Optimized Server Selection for First Match - Server selection is now optimized to select best bandwidth servers associated by LSP.

Fixed “Playlist Older Than Host” Error - Player will no longer get this error when entering games.

Additional Start Spawn Locations in All Maps - Added a minimum of 9 extra start spawns on each side of all maps." - Robert "FourZeroTwo" Bowling

Overall, this is a great patch for the game, taking into account many of player's complaints and suggestions. Sadly, while the patch notes list some network performance fixes, I still found the same old lag in several of the games I played. Looks like there's still some improvement needed on that end.

Finally, lest PlayStation 3 owners feel slighted, FourZeroTwo confirmed that there is a PlayStation 3 version of this patch going through certification at Sony, and will be available as soon as that testing is done.

• Call of Duty 4 - Official website
• Call of Duty 4 Xbox 360 Patch is OUT - Here's What's Changed - IAMfourzerotwo