CD Projekt RED confirm today that The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings is launching on April 17 in North America for the Xbox 360. The developer has added a raft of new features and insists it’s the “most polished and definitive version of the game.”

Microsoft plans to upgrade its disc technology in its next console to Blu-Ray discs, according to industry sources.

Sony, its competitors, utilizes the disc technology in its PlayStation 3, which contains 25 or 50GB of data compared to only 9GB on DVD discs. However, the disc integration could be far less impactful to the next generation of game consoles.

“I’ve heard from one reliable industry source that Microsoft intends to incorporate some sort of anti-used game system as part of their so-called Xbox 720,” reports Kotaku editor Stephen Totilo. “My source wasn’t sure how Microsoft intended to implement any anti-used game system in the new machine.”

Totilo also reports that Microsoft is interested in making a smaller controller for its new console.

It’s that time of  the year, where we grather up the most enjoyable titles of past year to generate at list of the most notable ones. Including, the most coveted award, the Game of the Year award.

With that said, these awards where decide on by a group of three “strong-mined” people, with each category being built of four nominees. However, only two title will be shown, respectively the winners and runner-ups in each questionably decided category.

Most Underrated Game of the Year
Winner – Rayman Origins
Runner-up – Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective

Best Indie Title of the Year
Winner – Bastion
Runner-up – Minecraft

Best Shooter
Winner – Battlefield 3
Runner-up – Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3

Best Action-Adventure Game
Winner – Batman: Arkham City
Runner-up – Assassin’s Creed: Revelations

Best Sport Game
Winner – NBA 2K12
Runner-up – FIFA Soccer 12

Best Original Soundtrack
Winner – The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
Runner-up – Dark Souls

Best PC Game of the Year
Winner – The Witcher 2: Assassin’s of Kings
Runner-up – Portal 2

PSP Exclusive of the Year
Winner – Monster Hunter Portable 3rd
Runner-up – Dissidia 012 Final Fantasy

DS/3DS Exclusive of the Year
Winner – Pokémon Black Version and Pokémon White Version
Runner-up – Super Mario 3D Land

Multi-Platform Game of the Year
Winner – The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
Runner-up – Batman: Arkham City

XBOX 360 Exclusive of the Year
Winner – Gears of War 3
Runner-up – Forza Motorsport 4

PlayStation 3 Exclusive of the Year
Winner – Uncharted 3: Drake’s Deception
Runner-up – LittleBIGPlanet 2

Nintendo Wii Exclusive of the Year
Winner – The Lengend of Zelda: Skyward Sword
Runner-up – Kirby’s Return to Dreamland

Game of the Year
Winner – The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
Runner-up – The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword

Halo 4 creative director Ryan Payton has denounced his position at Microsoft’s 343 Industries, stating that development had become a “crazed endeavor.” Payton leaves behind the development of Halo 4 and the entire Halo development team.

Payton, who had worked at Kojima Productions, was tasked with developing the game’s story and overseeing the creative team who where planning “The Reclaimer Trilogy” of Halo games.

“I had a great run at Microsoft,” Payton told Kotaku. “I don’t regret one day of it. But after a few years, there came a point where I wasn’t creatively excited about the project anymore.”

However, his decision isn’t because the game is bad, it simply was because the project had lost line with his original vision. “The Halo I wanted to build was fundamentally different and I don’t think I had built enough credibility to see such a crazy endeavor through.”

“I think time is the most valuable thing we have,” said Payton, “and I’ve decided that I’m not going to waste one more day working on something that doesn’t speak to my values.”

While other companies have pushed themselves into the third-dimensional market, Microsoft has sat on the sidelines. But today at PAX, the company announced that Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary will feature stereoscopic 3D support when it releases.

The publisher and console manufacture has stated that it’s using a “custom made top-and-bottom 3D technology” to allow the game to run in stereoscopic 3D — however, a 3D compatible television will still be needed to take advantage of the technology.

No, it won’t be rendering any big blue aliens. But, according to AMD, the people responsible for the Xbox 360′s graphical tech, the next Xbox will be able to render graphical details that’s on par with James Cameron’s big-screen aliens.

The company wouldn’t confirm if its working on the next console but, according to the Official Xbox Magazine, AMD’s Neal Robison said that the new Xbox will launch with that level of graphics, leaving a lot for gamers to be excited about.

Robison added that the upcoming A.I. and physics will lead for every pedestrian in a game, such as Grand Theft Auto, to react differently to a situation, giving them their own personalities.

343 Industries have explained the concepts behind “terminals” within Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary, and how they’ll offer hints into the plot of Halo 4, the next major installment into the series.

In an interview with CVG, executive producer Dan Ayoub said that terminals will be placed throughout the game and that finding them will unlock short videos that explain some of the things that will happen in Halo 4.

“So you guys may remember Terminals from Halo 3, they were very much like Easter Eggs in the game. You went through, found them and got some story info. It was usually just text on the screen. But it’s not really that interesting to read text on a screen, so we’re doing some very cool things with it,” said Ayoub.

“You’ll hear Tim Dadabo, the actual voice actor for Guilty Spark from the original game [narrating these Terminals]. The Terminals are definitely setting the story for Halo 4 but we’ll talk about that more in the future.”

“We’re giving Terminals a much more visual treatment, where we’re telling each story in a graphical way. It’s a lot cooler than reading text on a screen and also allows us to convey a lot more emotion in our storytelling. We’ve got Terminals hidden throughout the game and if you find them all you’ll learn story about the Halo universe, the ring and also story elements of things you’re going to see in Halo 4.”

There’s been a ton of questions surrounding newly the redesigned Master Chief, which was shown at E3. Now, sources close to 343 Industries have revealed that the redesigns apart of “steps to incorporate” elements from Halo: Reach into the forth installment.

In Reach, the players used modifications — like jet packs, sprint and shields — to take on the many challenges throughout the game. However, in the original story-arch, these element weren’t present. According to these sources, in Halo 4, these elements will become apart of the original story-arch for the first time.

These sources have also revealed that the undisclosed ”lapse in time” will be used to explain the addition of these elements. With that said, it makes prefect sense that they would want to add these gameplay elements to the original story-arch. In other news, it was recently reported that the changes made to Master Chief would be “story-driven” changes.

In an interview with Gamespot, Microsoft Game Studios’ Phil Spencer confirmed Kinect integration for Halo Anniversary, the re-imagining of the hit franchise. However, Spencer didn’t reveal any other details about the Kinect integration.

“As a first party we believe that Kinect will be important to all genres of games, be it racing games with Forza, combat games like Ryse — even games like Halo Anniversary has Kinect integration,” he said, when being questioned about the future of Kinect.

In a brief trailer that played during its press conference, Microsoft unveiled Ryse, an motion-controlled title base on the Roman Empire.

Microsoft have unveiled the brand new dashboard experience, incorporating the Kinect into the dashboard. The device can be used to control entire dashboard using voice commands, motion — accessing games and music with the simplest of commands.

In addition, new content will be added t0 the dashboard, including support for YouTube and Bing, both of which allow search via voice commands. The dashboard update is scheduled to launch this fall.

The software giant has continued its support for it’s motion device — something that was apparent during it’s press conference. In an interview, Phil Spencer said that he believes that all first-party games will move forward incorporating Kinect.

“It’s not a mandate that everything we do in first-party has to support Kinect right now,” said Spencer. “But I will say, specifically with voice, that there are some things that just seem to make navigating and playing games so much easier, that I would guess the answer will be yes in the end, that you’ll see all first-party games using some form of Kinect functionality.

“Whether it’s voice in Forza or head-tracking in Forza, which you wouldn’t say is somehow turning the Forza gameplay experience on it’s head,” he continued. “Rather, it’s just using the advantages of what Kinect brings to make the experience better. So I think there’s some specific examples where Kinect makes everything better.”

Microsoft made the news official at its media briefing this morning: “Halo 4 is coming and it’s the start of a new trilogy.”

During the Microsoft press conference, Ray Muzyka stepped on stage to announced Kinect support for Mass Effect 3. However, Kinect isn’t planned as the primary input of the game; it’s used to “augment” the experience.

When the game releases, players will be able to command their team on the battlefield using the motion device — in addition to verbally using the dialog three, the main conversation feature from past installments of the series.

Premiering moments ago, the pulse-pounding trailer promises an explosive and emotional end to critically acclaimed series.

According to a WinRumors source, Microsoft engineers have been hard at work “for some months” developing a Silverlight application which will allow Windows Phone developers to bring their applications to its home console.

Developers have already been coding Windows Phone applications using Silverlight tools. The software programmer had originally planned to bring the service to consoles, however it failed to attach a specific timescale to an update.

According to another source, Microsoft maybe planning to launch its own application Marketplace adding the potential for writing apps for both phones and consoles. In addition, Microsoft is expected to make an announcement at its MIX 11 developer conference.

Microsoft, computer software manufacture, have announced Avatar Kinect, social networking application for its console. The application uses facial recognition software to track users emotions, allowing for a more “connected” experience.

The service will be available via a software update in the spring — along with more navigation for Kinect users. In addition, the service will be available exclusively for Gold Members at no extra charge.

Microsoft, the industries leading software manufacture, have announced a spring software upgrade allowing for the use of Kinect, the control-free motion device, to navigate application menus.

Ron Forbes, who works for the companies entertainment division, demoed the motion controlled versions of the applications, including Netflix, Hulu Plus and Zune Marketplace. “There you have it — all of your entertainment. Movies, Music, TV, and Sports. It’s all happening right now,” added Forbes. The navigation will include both motion and vocal control.

Microsoft, the multinational software manufacture, plans to emphasize on its Windows operating system for the Consumer Electronic Show. However, there will be a small portion of its presentation dedicated to its console.

Now, multiple sources have reported of a upcoming software update which will allow Kinect users to interact with one another using their avatars. The update — called “Avatar Kinect” — is said to harbor a “separate area” where users can interact; in layman’s terms, it’s a social networking system for the console.

[Microsoft preparing 'Avatar Kinect' game for CES Announcement? via Glimpse Dog]

In another unexpected turn of events, Microsoft has unveiled Forza Motorsport 4, the fourth installment into the racing series — which is said to feature both Kinect controls and “traditional” racing controls — at the award show.

“Forza Motorsport 4 brings together genre-defining, controller-based racing and the power and freedom of Kinect to create an automotive experience unlike anything before it,” added a Microsoft spokesperson.

It took ten days for Kinect to pass one million units sold. Now, in response to a “propelling” holiday weekend, Microsoft has revealed that Kinect, the “controller-free” motion control device, has sold more than 2.5 million units worldwide since its launch.

“We are thrilled about the consumer response to Kinect, and are working hard with our retail and manufacturing partners to expedite production and shipments of Kinect to restock shelves as fast as possible to keep up with demand,” said Don Mattrick, president of the Interactive Entertainment Business at Microsoft.

“With sales already exceeding two and a half million units in just 25 days, we are on pace to reach our forecast of 5 million units sold to consumers this holiday.”

In response to a dominating marketing campaign, Kinect, the “controller-free” motion control device, has sold out at many traditional retailers. However, consumers can still grab the device bundled with a console, but they’re “thinning at this time.”

WalMart, apparently, has a some of the devices remaining, but a spokesperson warned, “there is going to be very high demand for these products. We will continue to restock throughout the season.”

“We’ve seen a tremendous amount of excitement and demand for (Kinect) and saw lines at our midnight openings around the country,” said Best Buy’s Chris Homeister. “We are currently sold out online, but we continue to work with Microsoft to obtain product shipments now and throughout the holiday season.”

Microsoft released the latest live-action short detailing some of the events — rather, it’s detailing some of the personal happens of planet’s inhabitants — before the impending invasion.

Peter Molyneux, the creator of Fable series, believes that the second installment, Fable II, story-wise was “rubbish”. That in mind, because of its “story-ifical” downfalls, Molyneux stated that the third installment “solves [all the] problems” story-wise of Fable II — stating that “everything [now] means something.”

“We solved one of the problems we had with Fable II,” explains Molyneux to Shacknews. “Where talking to people, getting married, getting divorced, buying houses didn’t really mean anything. It didn’t add anything to the game. Now, because everything gives you followers, everything means something.”

The system for leveling has been totally revamped in the third installment — with experience points being replaced with followers. The measurement of your progress will be the amount of people in the game won over to your side — you gain follows by your decisions and actions throughout your campaign, including your relationships.

As we suspected, Microsoft’s working on a “cheaper” version of their new Xbox 360 Slim model console. However, the company hasn’t said much about the console — expect that it’s in development. According to Kotaku, there’s an internal marketing document pricing the new “diet” console.

According to the document, Microsoft’s working a $199 version of their new Slim-model console — which is expected to hit retail this fall. The “diet” version of the console is expected to replace the previous Arcade version, which is no longer in production .

Sadly, there were no further details given about the console, such as hard drive space and WiFi capabilities — the console would mostly be lacking in both areas. Also, Microsoft didn’t provided any images of the console. But, at least we know the price and when we can expect it — this fall.

As speculated, Microsoft has unveiled a smaller, sleeker version of the Xbox 360, packing a 250GB hard drive and built-in wi-fi. And, according to Microsoft’s Don Mattrick, it will be hitting retail by the end of this week — priced at $299. Below are the specs:

Xbox 360 250GB

Xbox 360 is fully loaded with new features and still comes with everything you know and love. Here’s a feature list to make sure you don’t miss any of the newest Xbox 360 250GB parts.

Form Factor: Sleek, lean and gloss black finish with chrome accents. Place vertically or horizontally in any living room entertainment center.

Touch Sensitive Buttons: Turn the Xbox 360 video game system on/off and eject a disc with the swipe of a finger.

Whisper Quiet: Whether you’re playing a DVD disc or from the hard drive, or navigating the dashboard, with the all-new and much quieter Xbox 360, the only noise you’ll hear is your own laughing, cheering and playing.

Wi-Fi: Built-in 802.11n Wi-Fi for fast, easy connection to your friends and entertainment on Xbox LIVE.

Hard Drive: 250GB internal, swappable hard drive for even more storage. To access, remove the bottom panel by pushing the small tab toward the front of the console.

Kinect-Ready: Custom Kinect port on the back of the console that directly hooks up to the Kinect sensor for controller-free fun.

USB Slots: Five USB ports; three in the back of the console and two in the front for easy plug and play.

AV Connections:

AV Cable included for standard definition TV connnection.
HDMI port for high definition TV connection.
Optical Audio out port integrated on back of console for AV system connection.

Power Supply: Smaller and more efficient. Xbox 360 250GB and Xbox 360 Original power supplies are not interchangeable.

Wireless Controller: The award-winning Xbox 360 Wireless Controller matches the console in all black with color-matched thumsticks and directional pad with a touch of gloss and chrome to complete the look.

Backwards Compatible. Your favorite accessories and games will work with Xbox 360 250GB. (Xbox 360 External Hard Drives and Memory Units are not compatible.)

Accessories. Customize your Xbox 360 250GB with matching black accessories, including favorites such as Controllers, Wireless Headset, Chatpad, Quick Charge and Play & Charge Kits and more. Get a look at a few of these today.

Key Internal Components Changes:

Fan: Moved from two small fans to one larger fan for improved acoustics.
Chipset: 45 nanometer and integrated CPU and GPU.
Wi-Fi: Integrated wireless capability.

It seem that Microsoft is looking to refresh the system pallet on its box-art. According to Destructoid, along side the re-reveal of Project Natal at E3, the console-maker may also be looking to refresh its visual branding in the retail space.

Destructoid reports that multiple retail sources, including GameSpot, Amazon, are currently changing the “top space” of the box into the newer one. Along with that, the site also reports that sources at publishers and developers have told them that they’re seeing similar changes being made “internally”.

That said, if this change comes to pass, it’s not only a huge deal, but it may indeed be a bigger effort, on Microsoft’s part, to change consumer perception of its console. As a quick note, Sony also recently changed the box-art model for its product, changing its font and front-facing appearance of its retail box art.

Microsoft rocked the internet with the announcement of Netflix streaming into their console. That said, according to “a very reliable source“, Microsoft plans to do this again with the announced of Hulu streaming onto their console.

Requiring a separate subscription fee — much like Netflix — the subscription service allows users the able to watch their favorite television shows whenever they want via their console. However, instead of opting it on a monitor, they can watch it on their television sets.

The subscription service is said to require Microsoft points, instead of an separate online account. Expect more information during Microsoft’s press conference at E3.

Since it’s announcement, Microsoft have been silent about it motion controller device. That in mind, according to Microsoft, Project Natal will launch worldwide this October — reveals Microsoft Saudi marketing manager, Syed Bilal Tari.

“Project Natal will be launched in Saudi Arabia on the same date it will be launched in the world,” said Tariq. “That is going to be somewhere [sic] in October. We will be in a position to confirm the date after E3, which is in June. But definitely the date is going to be in October 2010.”

Last time we heard, Project Natal was going to sell for around $100, which is quite an affordable price. The condition, of course, is that you already own your Xbox 360 console. Otherwise, you’ll have to buy both the console and Project Natal in order to enjoy motion controlled gaming.

The company is set to unveil its launch lineup of titles for the device next month at the E3 expo in Los Angeles. In which two shows are planned, one separate for Natal’s “World Premiere” and Microsoft’s Media Briefing.

Provided that its sells well enough, a sequel would be a no-brainier. That said, according to Remedy Entertainment, Alan Wake’s developers, the perpetual plot for the Alan Wake sequel is already “set in stone”; and provided that original sells well enough, there will be a sequel.

“We do know where season two is going to go,” Remedy’s Oskari Hakkinen told CVG. “Season one will have a conclusive and satisfactory ending but we will leave doors open for season two and we know where we’re going to take the story.”

“Well, it’s certainly no secret that we’d love to make a second one if the first one does well. But since the game isn’t even out yet, it’s really up in the air,” Mikko Rautalahti added in a forum post.

Though Bungie was recently acquired by Activision, the developer wholeheartedly promises to continue its support of Halo: Reach post-release. According to Bungie community director Brian Jarrard, despite the studio’s newly found commitment, it will continue to support the title.

“Microsoft still owns the Halo IP,” says Jarrard. “But, we will still support Reach post-release and we have a great relationship with our community, so we want to make sure we keep the game going.”

“I’m not exactly sure how that will eventually play out and at what point there will be a changing of the guard. But for the foreseeable future we are committed to Reach and to our community and we’re going to stand by the game like we have in the past,” he explained to Joystiq, when talking about the how it will be continued.

This support should mean, atleast, the that basic bug fixes and multiplayer tweaks; taking note of the Halo franchise’s fanbase, there will be atleast one bug exploited. However, this doesn’t mean that, Bungie are planning downloadable maps down the pipeline.

“But beyond that we will not be working on any more Halo — we will be completely focused on bringing our next universe to light,” Jarrard continued. “From there Microsoft will take the Halo universe in the direction they see fit.” Halo: Reach is currently due out in the Fall.

Those planning on opting the digital version; be warned. As past reports stated, when Microsoft introduced the “game install” feature, installing Halo 3 “may” affect in-game loading times — increasing them, instead of decreasing them. Now, according to Microsoft, this hasn’t been fixed, and it “may” have an effect on the digital version.

“Halo 3 has undergone extensive testing to ensure that players will have a positive experience, whether the game is played from a DVD, hard disk drive or USB drive,” said Microsoft. “When installed to the Xbox 360 hard disk drive, players may experience longer than average mission and map load times, but regardless of where the game is installed, gameplay performance is not affected.”

People, for obvious reasons, stated Microsoft’s platform as the development lead for Bayonetta; we later gained conformation from its developer, sparking a bit of frustration with fans. As a reason of repentance, Platinum Games have announced that their next title, Vanquish will feature Sony’s platform as the development lead.

“We’re leading development on PS3,” said director Shinji Mikami. “Obviously each console has its own unique requirements and limitations, but we feel if we can create a good enough presentation on PS3, we’ll be off to a good start.” Mikami also revealed that development started out on PC, although when asked if it was coming to that platform, Mikami said PS3 and 360 were “the main idea right now”.

Though there were hopes for a PC version post-console release, Microsoft shattered any question of their being a PC version. According to Strategy Informer, a Microsoft spokesperson told them that Alan Wake will no longer have a PC version; something that its developers, Remedy Entertainment, were camera shy to talk about since the version’s suspending.

“Some games are more suited for the intimacy of the PC, and others are best played from the couch in front of a larger TV screen,” explained the Microsoft spokesperson.

“We ultimately realized that the most compelling way to experience “Alan Wake” was on the Xbox 360 platform, so we focused on making it an Xbox 360 exclusive. Both Microsoft and Remedy have long histories in PC game development. This decision was about matching this specific game to the right platform.”

Despite having previously stated that trilogy’s exclusiveness is “in the question”, the Mass Effect series lead project director, Casey Hudson revealed that the trilogy, just like how it started, will finish on Microsoft’s platform. When questioned about the trilogy going multi-platform, Hudson had a couple of choice words:

“You get the Xbox 360 or your PC, but the Xbox 360 is the one that’s going to run out of time at some point, and you create your character and play through an entire trilogy on that platform,” Hudson told GameZone.

As early last week, Hudson did revealed that he’s expecting a “short turnaround” with the development of third installment into the trilogy, meaning that after the release of Mass Effect 2, development should begin shortly after. Be that as it may, this news still confirms a multi-platform Mass Effect 3; it doesn’t detract from there being one.

Microsoft has done it again, delivering content on its platform before anyone else can receive it. However, unsurprisingly, there are two sides to this pandemic; one supporting Microsoft, and the other against Microsoft dishing out money for exclusives. That said, Microsoft has responded to the “non-supporters”, who are non-supportive of them with their current downloadable content deal.

“I think about it like a sports team, when you sign a star athlete for your team… when you sign that free agent, I think it makes your team better. At the end of the day, we want to turn as many people as possible into Xbox 360 fans,” said Microsoft’s Aaron Greenberg when asked about the business of getting exclusive content with ArsTechnica.

“…on top of that, to take the biggest game of last year, and be the exclusive place you can get that downloadable content first, I think that’s a big deal. That’s a big reason you’d want to buy an Xbox 360 instead of another console, “he continued. “So we think from a business standpoint that’s part of the reason more people are buying the Xbox 360, more people are on Xbox Live, it’s part of the reason more people are buying Modern Warfare 2—more than two to one our box vs. the PS3.”

Sony had a very impressive 2009; however, Microsoft is seeking to gain 2010. That said, with expectations set very high on both fronts, Microsoft has added Fable III to the list of games that it will be releasing this year — something that we did see coming, seeing that Lionhead announced the game late-last year.

According to Microsoft’s CES press release, the company is looking to fill its gaming holiday release schedule with highly anticipated titles, such as Halo: Reach and Fable III. “Our holiday line-up of games includes the highly anticipated Fable III, followed by Halo Reach,” read the press release. With that in mind, Fable III is scheduled to release this holiday season on the Xbox 360.

Alan Wake is most likely one of the most anticipated titles of this year, with it nearing development completion, Microsoft revealed during the Consumer Electronics Show that Alan Wake will indeed have “downloadable episodes” after its release — something that was previously mentioned in an interview.

“We have talked about it, and with our episode-based structure, it would be very logical,” Alan Wake creator and writer Sam Lake told Kotaku. “But nothing has been decided on the matter, and right now, we are fully focused on polishing the game and shipping it. After that, let’s see.”

When first announced at this years E3 expo, people were quick to recognize Quantum Theory as the counter-exclusive to the Gears of War series, a 360 exclusive series. However, exclusiveness no longer plays a factor when it comes to Quantum Theory. Because Tecmo revealed today that Quantum Theory will also be headed to the Xbox 360.

Previously a Plsystation 3 exclusive, the game is being developed on an unnamed PC-based engine that’s designed to make multiplatform development easier, much like the crystal engine used in Final Fantasy XIII‘s development. However, no other news was released about the 360 version. Quantum Theory is now scheduled to arrive in the Spring of 2010 on PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360.

Modern Warfare 2 has surpassed sales expectations, selling an estimated 4.7 million units within the first 24 hours; that’s an estimated $310 million in profit within 24 hours. As it turns out, people have been rushing onto Xbox Live to play Modern Warfare 2, respectively, with their friends; pushing the amount of online users to “record breaking heights”.

In a post on his Twitter account, Xbox Live’s Larry “Major Nelson” Hryb said that, “Over TWO MILLION people [were] connected to the [online] service at once”, something that has never been done before on any online platform; setting a new record for most concurrent users for the service.

It’s no secret that Epic Games has established a very avid relationship with Microsoft, producing such exclusives as Gears of War and Shadow Complex – both very high sellers for Microsoft’s system, the Xbox 360. However, it shouldn’t come as any surprise that Epic would proclaim themselves as the “unofficial engine” of Project Natal, Microsoft’s upcoming motion-sensing device.

When speaking to Official Xbox Magazine UK in an interview, Mark Rein Vice President of Epic Games talked about the many ways that Unreal technology could be implanted with Project Natal, even going as far as to call it the “unofficial engine” of Project Natal.

“We are going to work with Microsoft to make that available to Unreal Engine licensees who want to make Natal games,” Rein said. “So, if you want to make a game on Natal, you want to get a big head start and use the same tech as Microsoft, come talk to me. We are the unofficial engine of Natal, or maybe the official, I don’t know. In other words, we consider ourselves the ‘economic engine of Natal.’ You want to make money with Natal, come talk to us, we’ll help you.”

Let’s do the math. Natal + ideas = Unreal Engine usage. Sounds good to me.

It’s very unclear if Bungie will be returning to develop another entry into the Halo series, other then next year’s Halo: Reach. However, Microsoft is hellbent on continuing the franchise. So much, in fact, that they’re planning on continuing the Halo series well into the next decade with, or without, Bungie’s help.

“We do have a plan that goes out at least six years [2015],” 343 Industries’ Frank O’Connor reveals when speaking to USA Today. SPOILER! Specially, with Halo 3′s legendary ending, he thinks that, that will be a great point of continuation. “I think that [the Master Chief's] fate, Cortana‘s fate and the identity of that giant, dark planet at the ending are probably big mysteries that would be irritating if they were just cliffhangers,” he continued.

[Thanks to GameSpot]

Update: Microsoft has revealed much needed information about the second disc that will come encased with Forza Motorsport 3 saying that players will be able to play the whole career on disc one, and that the second disc is just extra content.

“The game comes on two discs, but you can play through the whole career on disc 1. Disc 2 is just additional content, ie extra cars and tracks,” a spokeperson told GamerCenterOnline. Or, in other words, Forza Motorsport 3 has alot of “extra content”.

Original: Because not all the cars and tracks could fit onto one disc, Turn 10 had to split Forza Motorsport 3 onto two discs. The first disc is most of the game, which features most of the tracks and about 300 cars, and the second you’ll need to install the onto the hard dive or memory card to get the remaining 104 cars and 29 tracks, reports IGN.

When you insert the first disc, the game will ask if you want to install the second disc, which takes up 1.9 GB of space. However, if you don’t have that much space on your hard dive, you can choose pieces of disc two to install – in which it’s broken up into four packs, much like downloadable content (IGN has a list).

After that, the game reads it and adds in the content seamlessly to the game. If you don’t have them stored onto your hard dive or memory card, you won’t see the content offline or online. We’ve contacted Microsoft to learn more about these packs, and if they’ll be fully available right at the games launch.

When grasping his hands on Project Natal for the first time, Konami‘s Hideo Kojima was caught smitten by Microsoft‘s motion sensing technology, he revealed during a Q&A session at the Tokyo Game Show. He told the crowd that he was shocked by the experience of Natal. “I had to restrain myself from telling everyone I met,” Kojima said.

He believes Natal will raise the bar in all aspects of entertainment and allow people to be connected with their machines in a way that we’ve encountered only in science fiction – I think that he was thinking around the lines of Minority Report, or something like that. Even people who are not gamers can be a part of it because Natal is based on intuition, something that will take video games to a whole new level of interactivity.

“Using Natal, I’d like to come up with a completely new game that no one has seen before. I know I have lots of fans that are loyal to me, and I don’t want to leave them behind. So maybe I can come up with a car that can fly, so my fans can follow me…metaphorically speaking, of course,” Kojima said during the Panel.

[Konami's Kojima, Capcom's Inafune, Sega's Nagoshi discuss Project Natal's potential via GameSpot]

During Microsoft‘s E3 ’09 keynote, they revealed the long awaited and rumored sequel, Crackdown 2. However, it isn’t until now – the Tokyo Game Show – that we’re getting to see the first pair of screenshots, and, well, they’re freaking amazing.

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In the shadow of the recent announcement of Star Ocean on PlayStation 3, Square Enix confirmed that its upcoming action-RPG NieR will release in two versions; NieR Gesthalt for the Xbox 360, and NieR Replicant for the PlayStation 3. However, during the past couple of weeks, the names recently made an appearance, but no clarifications were made, at that time.

Details are incredibly light at the moment on the two versions. But, what we do know is that both versions have their NieR character attempting to find a cure for a character who has a mysterious illness. Hopefully, all will be cleared up at next week’s Tokyo Game Show, where the Xbox 360 version will be playable.

Infinity Ward announced during a press event in Los Angeles tonight, that with the release of Modern Warfare 2, Microsoft is planning to release a new Xbox 360 model based on the upcoming game.

This new bundle (to be available in both North America and Europe) comes with an Elite console marked Modern Warfare 2 branding (seen above), a 250GB HDD (hard dive), a copy of Modern Warfare 2, and two wireless Black controllers. And it will be available for $399.

“It’s the highest compliment to the team and our fans to have a special themed Xbox 360 console,” said Vince Zampella, CEO of Infinity Ward. “The precision and detail that’s been put into the console captures the intensity and feel of ‘Modern Warfare 2.’ We can’t wait for our community and fans around the world to see for themselves on Nov. 10.”

Just in time. Today, Microsoft revealed the “Epic” list of games that it will be showcasing during the Tokyo Game Show, which takes place in no place other then Japan. Thelist mostly consistencies of titles that are currently in playable form for the Japanese public to enjoy. Better yet, Microsoft will also be showcasing some of the top games for 2010 in video-only form – however, we’re not sure if the videos are new.  Here’s the list:

• Forza Motorsport 3 (Demo, Trailer)
• Alan Wake (Trailer)
• Fable III (Trailer)
• Halo 3: ODST (Demo, Trailer)
• Halo Legends (Trailer)
• Halo: Reach (Trailer)
• Crackdown 2 (Trailer)
• Borderlands (Trailer)
• Samurai Shodown Sen (Demo, Trailer)
• FIFA 10 (Demo, Trailer)
• Lost Planet 2 (Demo, Trailer)
• MUSHIHIME SAMA Futari Ver1.5 (Demo, Trailer)
• Shin Sangoku MULTI RAID Special (Demo, Trailer)
• Castlevania ~Lords of Shadow~ (Trailer)
• NINETY-NINE NIGHTS II (Demo, Trailer)
• Pro Evo 2010 (Demo, Trailer)
• FRONT MISSION EVOLVED (Demo, Trailer)
• Call of Duty Modern Warfare 2 (Trailer)
• NeiR Gestalt (Demo, Trailer)
• BAYONETTA (Demo, Trailer)
• Resonance of Fate (Demo, Trailer)
• Assassin’s Creed II (Demo, Trailer)
• Splinter Cell Conviction (Trailer)
• Infernal (Demo, Trailer)
• Dragon Ball Rising Burst (Demo, Trailer)
• Tekken 6 (Demo, Trailer)
• STEINS;GATE (Demo, Trailer)

[Thanks to Kotaku]

It seems as if the checkered flag is waving towards the release of Forza Motorsport 3 because Microsoft and Turn 10 confirmed that Forza Motorsport 3 has gone gold, and that it’s entering its final lap before launching on Oct. 23 exclusively on Xbox 360.

Along with the announcement, they also confirmed that a demo of the highly anticipated title will arrive on Xbox Live Marketplace starting Sept. 24. In the demo, players get behind the wheel of five of the world’s most amazing cars on the full circuit of the game’s Camino Viejo track – including the 2007 Porsche #80 Flying Lizard 911 GT3-RSR, 2010 Audi R8 5.2 FSI quattro, 2009 Ferrari California, 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X GSR, and 2009 Mini John Cooper Works.

At Tokyo’s Xbox 360 Media Briefing 2009, Microsoft confirmed that Konami will be publishing Ninety-Nine Nights II. There’s little information know about the title, however, the sequel will feature the same style of gameplay as the original – which blends a  large groups of enemies with fast-paced combat. Ninety-Nine Nights II was said to be developed by Rez designer Testsuya Mizuguch, but that doesn’t seem to be the case. Konami had “no comment” to make about the news.

I’m really starting to wonder what “breaking an Xbox Live sales record” really means because, every week, this seems to be the issue. Anyway, adding to the list of many Xbox Live record breakers, Microsoft today dubbed Chair Entertainment‘s action-adventure game Shadow Complex “the most downloaded single-player title in Xbox Live Arcade history,” meaning that it has planted itself as an “XBLA sales record breaker”. So, from us here at GamerCenterOnline. Shadow Complex… we congratulate you. O yeah, by the way, Microsoft hasn’t revealed your sales numbers yet (that’s just there for all of you that were hoping they would).

Microsoft has confirmed that they’ll be getting rid of the Xbox 360 Pro by stopping production of the product all together, which we all ready knew. However, the main attraction here is that they have revealed that the Elite – originally sold at $399 – will get a price drop and will sell for $299.99, and what’s remaining of the Pros will be cut to $249.99. While the hard drive-less Arcade units will remain at $199.

Responding to the news, Microsoft’s Aaron Greenberg had this to say to CNET. “I’m sure some will think this is a response to competitor pricing,” he said. “But we had planned this reduction months in advance. Retail circular ads and store merchandising were all lined up. We wanted to be ready for the holiday season.” However, Microsoft’s decision to reduce the price of the Xbox 360 isn’t a surprise because numerous rumors have been swirling around the internet of a price drop. Expect to see the price drop in effect this Friday.

When speaking to Kotaku, Hiromuchi Tanaka, producer on FFXIV, told them that there’s an important issue  keeping them from bringing the title on to the Xbox 360. The “rockblock” that he speaks of is, Microsoft‘s “network policy”.

Since the PlayStation 3 and Windows PC versions allow for cross communication and cross platform play, this is an important issue that Square Enix can not over look. Because it can effect the longevity of the tite on that paffic system, “system” being the Xbox 360. However, Tanaka says that Square Enix is trying to reach an agreement with Microsoft allowing Xbox 360 players to enjoy the game, saying the developer is still “considering” the platform.

Anyway, with that said. It’s no wonder as to why Square Enix hasn’t announced a Xbox 360 version of the game yet. However, we hope that Microsoft can over look this and bring Final Fantasy XIV on to the 360.

Amadeus Arkham, celebrated doctor or demented murderer? You be the judge! With a new video vignette, Eidos Inc. and Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment today reveal the “History of Arkham Asylum” as featured in the upcoming Batman: Arkham Asylum videogame, coming out August 2, 2009 for the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and PC.

Peter Molyneux announced Fable III during Microsoft’s GamesCon press conference today for the Xbox 360. Months before, Molyneux teased fans that the series might be taking a new direction – seeing that the recently released “See The Future” downloadable content for Fable II teased at that.

“I think there’s something fundamentally wrong with RPGs like Fable… It’s a mechanic that’s been there since the eighties. I’m going to take that foundation stone and throw it away,” said Molyneux when talking about making RPGs “new, fresh, and different”.

In the epic story of Fable III, the journey to rule the throne of Albion begins five decades after the events of the last chapter, and you play as the child of your hero from Fable II. As you rule your kingdom as king or queen, you will be called upon to make choices and sacrifices that will test your morality and can affect your entire kingdom. Themes of heroism, leadership and consequence are taken to a grand scale as you fight to unite a divided people.

“Ultimately you overthrow that terrible tyrant who rules Albion, but to do that you have to make some promises,” Molyneux stated. ”You are going to become the ruler of the whole of Albion. You’ve played in this land in Fable 1, in Fable 2 you became a hero; this time, why not rule Albion? Why not be a king or a queen?” He added, “I want players to feel and experience what it’s like to be a ruler.”

Fable III will deliver a sweeping, powerful story and new innovations in gameplay and Xbox LIVE functionality when it is made available in the 2010 holiday season, only on Xbox 360.

If you live in the United States and you have to an Xbox Live account, boy! do I have some news for you. In an information update posted by Major Nelson, he revealed that Xbox Live members can now access PayPal as a method of payment for Xbox Live Marketplace – that’s if they live in the United States.

Anyway, with this system, you can use PayPal to buy Microsoft Points without having to associate your credit card information to your account.

A couple of things to point out:

PayPal is currently supported for Xbox LIVE users in the U.S. only.
PayPal can only be used to purchase Microsoft Points on Xbox.com.
PayPal accounts are not available for purchasing Microsoft Points on the Xbox 360 console.
You can associate multiple Pay Pal accounts with your Xbox LIVE account.

As reported by so many sources stating that Gearbox maybe working on the next Halo project, which was unofficially titled Halo 4. It seems that you may scratch Gearbox off the list of developers that are making the next Halo title because on the official twitter account for Halo Waypoint, it confirmed that the developer is not involved in any upcoming Halo projects.

“For the record, Gearbox is NOT working on a Halo title for Microsoft,” the twitter feed read.

Microsoft was e-mail by IGN to confirmed this.

And you thought you that you couldn’t get enough Halo. During the San Diego Comic-Con, Microsoft revealed its plans for an anime-style Halo miniseries entitled “Halo Legends“.

“Five production houses in Japan are handling the physical animation, but Microsoft’s creative staff is approving major visual and storytelling decisions,” said Frank O’Connor, creative director for 343 Industries, the Microsoft division that oversees all Halo products to the LA Times.

Those five well-known anime studios are Bones, Casio Entertainment, Production I.G, Studio4 C, and Toei Animation. They’ll be playing key parts in “Halo Legends” seven-part series product. “Halo Legends” will release on DVD and “digital platforms” in early 2010 through Warner Bros.

“If you look at how George Lucas held on to ‘Star Wars,’ not just to make money from action figures but to control the direction the universe went in, you can see why we think it’s pretty vital,” said O’Connor. “Luckily, Microsoft has the resources to enable us to do that.”

Updated: The episodic content will also arrive on a disc along with previous DLC episode, The Lost and Damned, as Grand Theft Auto: Episodes From Liberty City, only on 360, and set to release on Oct. 29 for $39.99 and does not require a
copy of the original Grand Theft Auto IV to play.

Original: GTA IV’s second and latest piece of exclusive downloadable content for the Xbox 360, Grand Theft Auto: The Ballad of Gay Tony will release on Oct. 29, Rockstar Games announced today.

The Ballad of Gay Tony focuses on the glitzy “high-end night life” of Liberty City. And puts players in the role of Luis Lopez, as his part-time hoodlum duties are supplemented by full-time work for nightclub impresario Tony “Gay Tony” Prince.

The DLC will release for Microsoft’s console this fall for $19.99, or 1600 MS points, and will require players to have a copy of Grand Theft Auto IV and an Xbox Live membership in order to download it.

[Next Grand Theft Auto DLC Hits Oct. 29 [Update] via Kotaku]

Last week, the United States Patent and Trademark Office assigned Microsoft, the publisher of such games as Gears of War, the ability to offer seamless switching from solo to co-op campaigns within squad-based shooter video games. You really have to patent such a thing?

Anyway, the patent, #7,559,834, was originally owned, and invented, by James York of Texas – Austin, Texas to be more exact. And was filed back in December of 2002. However, nearly a decade later, this is what Microsoft gains access to:

A squad-based shooter video game allows players to dynamically join and leave the game, while that game is in progress, without the players having to save and restart the game. When a new player joins an in-progress game, a new squad member is allocated to the new player and the screen is split to present a viewing panel for the new player that depicts scenes from the perspective of the new squad member. When an existing player leaves the game, the screen is unsplit to remove the viewing panel for the exiting player and that player’s squad member becomes part of the squad being controlled by the remaining player(s).

The patent came filled with co-op game sketches (one shown above). Anyway, the one shown above resembles a screenshot from the original Xbox co-op shooter Brute Force, developed by the now non-existent Digital Anvil. So for what reason would Microsoft patent this? With Natal’s release coming upon us, who knows what they are planning.

[Microsoft Patents Drop-In Co-Op In Shooters via Kotaku]

In an interview with Phil Spencer, head of Microsoft Game Studios, it revealed that Project Natal, a new no controller technology that allows games to be played with ones body, will not only feature a number of games at its launch, but that it isn’t the only piece of hardware they plan to release for the Xbox 360 of its kind.

Although there’s currently no new hardware other than Natal in the works, Spencer mentions that, “It’s not about trying to sell consumers a new piece of hardware at the wrong time, it’s about evolving the platform continuously,” meaning that new hardware is necessary for the 360 to move forward. Basically, adjusting its abilities as a console.

As for launch titles, there have been some hints to some of the games that will be releasing with Project Natal at its launch; the amazing artificial intelligence called Milo that Peter Molyneux debut at E3, and when Microsoft  showcased the power of Natal during their press conference at E3 with the painting and dodge ball games.

However, with Natal’s launch upon us, the public has yet to see any other titles that work with Natal. Could this mean a “Wii Sports” like title that utilizes the Xbox 360′s avatars? Let the speculations begin.

[Natal will ‘relaunch’ 360 in 2010 via MCV]

It looks like Remedy’s planning for another Alan Wake title, after all it’s only the “first season”.

“Yeah we see Alan Wake like a DVD-box containing the first season of a bigger story,” Sam Järvi of Remedy told LEVEL. “It is like a TV-series that became a game. The story is cut into episodes that are all ending with a cliffhanger.”

Alan Wake is a psychological action thriller from Remedy, the legendary and renowned developers of highly successful action titles. In this exciting new title exclusively for Windows and Xbox 360, gamers assume the role of Alan Wake, a best-selling suspense author who escapes to a small town to recover from the mysterious disappearance of his fiancee.

[Remedy: Alan Wake is only the first season via GameZine.co.uk]

Lock and load! When Halo 3: ODST drops this September, it will deliver a completely new campaign, a new cooperative multiplayer entitled Firefight, the complete Halo 3 multiplayer experience on a standalone disc, and new competitive multiplayer maps for Halo 3 you won’t find anywhere else. That’s why Microsoft and Bungie today revealed the remaining three multiplayer maps which are sure to get fans around the world excited.

• Heretic returns players to familiar ground as the Halo 2 arena Midship makes its long-rumored debut in Halo 3. The stark interior of the Pious Inquisitor might appear austere on first glance, but Heretic’s symmetrical spaces require players to execute complex strategies in order to outplay their opponents.
• Citadel may be a long abandoned Forerunner stronghold, but its small, symmetrical confines are far from secure. Two opposing bases offer little safety for players looking for solace. Instead, Citadel forces small squads to stay in constant communication, keep their heads on a swivel, and be prepared to adjust combat tactics in close quarters.
• Longshore lacks the commercial ships that once made it a lucrative port for Old Mombasa, but it still bustles with activity. Designed for large scale combat and well suited for smaller affairs, Longshore’s multitude of industrial buildings, elevated walks, and open inlets conspire to create a complex battleground tailored for multiple combat scenarios.

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Namco Bandai has announced that its secured exclusive North American rights to publish all future Dragon Ball titles “across all major consoles and handhelds” for the next five years, beginning in January 2010.

Along with this, Namco Bandai has secured the right to initially publish three Dragon Ball titles in 2009, Dragon Ball: Raging Blast for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and PlayStation 3 computer entertainment system, Dragon Ball: Revenge of King Piccolo exclusively for Wii, and Dragon Ball Z: Attack of the Saiyans exclusively for Nintendo DS.

“We are very excited to have signed this long term agreement with Toei Animation Co., Ltd and FUNimation Entertainment, which grants Namco Bandai Games North American multi-platform rights to the testosterone-driven, action-packed world of Dragon Ball,”said Makoto Iwai, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Namco Bandai Games America Inc..

“This move reunites Namco Bandai Games with the Dragon Ball series in North America which will considerably increase our ability to develop titles that perfectly capture every nuance of what makes the Dragon Ball world exciting to the consumer.”

Advertisement innovation. That’s what Microsoft plans to do by bringing Silverlight to Xbox Live.

Apparently, Microsoft “plans to bring IAB specifications for rich media technologies, including Silverlight, to Xbox Live within the year.” Enabling companies to build advertising campaigns that span four screens: computers, mobile phones, Surface and now televisions.

Silverlight as a technology is similar in intent to Adobe Flash. It is used for advertising as well as other purposes, such as browser-based games and video streaming. The arrival of Silverlight to the Xbox 360 aims to boost campaigns on Xbox Live by turning ads into interactive and interconnected experiences.

Media Post reports:

Silverlight-powered media on Xbox will have the same appearance as ads seen on a Web browser. Think technology that competes with Flash, only supported by 6 million Silverlight developers worldwide who now have the option to tap a variety of Microsoft tools and technologies and develop marketing campaigns for Xbox.

“Today, movie trailers are available in a high-definition (HD) format, but Silverlight will deliver 1080p HD and 5.1 surround sound without discs directly into the Xbox.” Sean Alexander, director at Microsoft’s Advertising Business Group, told MediaPost.

[Microsoft Silverlight For Xbox Live Eases Creative Across Platforms via Media Post]

If you were under the impression that Bungie’s upcoming shooter Halo 3: ODST would be a straight-forward linear shooter, you’re very mistaken, said Bungie to The Seattle Times in a recent interview.

“We’re doing a lot of pretty neat things in terms of mixing it up, introducing some non-linearity, some free exploration,” said Joseph Staten, writer and creative director of ODST.

“This is also a mystery story so there’s a lot more clue-finding and mystery-solving than you would normally find in a game of this kind – nothing that strays too far from the fun ‘Halo‘ experience, but we definitely decided to take a little bit of risk and have some fun with this one,” he continued.

Along with that, Bungie also got a early look at Project Natal, a motion-sensing controller that Microsoft is developing for the Xbox 360. Bungie Studio President Harold Ryan said, when speaking on Project Natal, that ” he absolutely think[s that] ‘Reach‘ could be enabled with it.”

Question: what about Splinter Cell: Conviction making its on to the PlayStation 3? UbiSoft spoke about that on its forums yesterday.

“Splinter Cell: Conviction is a true Microsoft exclusive title and there are no plans to have Splinter Cell: Conviction on other platforms,” said UbiSoft. ”There are several reasons behind this choice. First of all, Splinter Cell games are historically linked with Microsoft platforms. The first Splinter Cell on the original Xbox was one of the first games to fully exploit the console’s technical possibilities. At that time, Microsoft really believed in the game potential and provided strong support to promote it. So, there is a “link of heart” between the franchise and the platform. Some games are like this (think of Final Fantasy for instance).”

They then went on the give another reason.

“The second reason behind this choice is purely linked to production. Having a single target platform means that we can optimize the game even further, because we only have one type of – console – hardware to support.”

Update: No matter what people thought they heard Steve Ballmer say in Chicago, Microsoft is not planning to introduce a successor to the Xbox 360 next year – stated by cnet.

Original: Microsoft’s CEO Steve Ballmer spoke about “the role of innovation in changing economic times” at The Executive’s Club of Chicago earlier on today. However, what took the show, the announcement that a new Xbox 360 will be hitting shelves in 2010.

Ballmer stated openly, during a speech on the recession to those in attendance at the Executives Club in Chicago, that a new Xbox 360 will hit the store shelves in 2010.

The device will come fully packed with technology that’s “really, really, close” to actuality. The console, which was described as having a “natural interface,” will have a built in camera with the ability to recognize movement and voice.

Sounds alot like Natal.

[Ballmer announces 2010 Xbox 360 at The Executive Club Chicago via TG Daily]

No this isn’t a April Fools joke, mainly because it’s not April. But, the kind sirs, and madams, over at Microsoft are offering Silver members the chance to upgrade to Gold for one month. Here’s were it gets good, all this for the one time price of $1.

However, being a “limited-time offer”, which it is, when the free months up, you’ll be charged for the rest of the year, but, of course, you can opt out of it.

Max Payne developer Remedy Entertainment has licensed Umbra Software’s rendering optimization middleware for its upcoming title Alan Wake, which was announced all the way back at E3 ’05 and was recently shown at E3 ’09.

Umbra Software is the expert in 3D rendering optimization middleware for PC, Xbox360 and PS3. Umbra Software’s flagship product, Umbra, increases rendering performance in 3D games and allows game developers to create rich, complex and highly dynamic game worlds previously impossible.

“Umbra gave a significant boost in rendering performance on the Xbox360, and at the same time made our content creation faster. With Umbra’s culling technology, Remedy’s team can add more details to Alan Wake’s world and concentrate on the cool visuals while minimizing tedious work such as adding portals,” said Remedy Entertainment’s Development Director Markus Mäki.

“It’s been a pleasure working with Remedy on Alan Wake,” said Marko Nurro, Umbra Software’s CEO. “Remedy is one of the most innovative and technically competent studios in the world. Their games just rock, simple as that.”

Square Enix has revealed some very shocking info about the development of the 360 version of Final Fantasy XIII. However, it seems to be coming along nicely, considering that it has only been in development for two months.

“Up to the trial demo version that was released [in April] in Japan, [FFXIII] was PS3-only in terms of development,” producer Yoshinori Kitase told Giant Bomb. ”The Xbox 360 version is definitely following after the PS3 version, but [we] were finally able to come to a point in the PS3 development where some of the staff could take their hands off and start programming the 360 version.”

Kitase and fellow producer/designer Motomu Toriyama gave an on-stage demonstration of FFXIII for Xbox 360 during Microsoft’s E3 conference. The pair promised a Western release of spring 2010.

This game looks better and better every time we talk about it. Crackdown’s 2 product page on Xbox.com has some details not revealed during Microsoft’s E3 Keynote. And these details are juicy.

The sequel is to have four-player co-op and competitive multiplayer for up to 16 people.

The games developer said earlier this week that it “takes multiplayer gaming to unprecedented levels for the ultimate co-op and competitive multiplayer experience”.

According to Joystiq, when questioning about Shadow Complex’s pricing, Epic Games programmer Rob McLaughlin commented saying that it would likely not see price point below $20. Joystiq “grilled hm for more info” , but didn’t accomodate them.

Don Mustard along with Cliff Bleszinski, lead game designer on the Gears of War titles, are currently busy working on Epic Game’s first arcade title Shadow Complex – announced earlier at Microsoft’s E3 keynote.

Peter Molyneux has been promoted to creative director of European studios at Microsoft Games Studios, revealed by Develop.

Previously creative director of Guildford-based Lionhead Studios, Molyneux will now also oversee the creative direction of fellow UK Microsoft studio Rare, as well as other European external projects.

Peter Molyneux actually assumed this new role back in March.

He has over 20 years of experience with games Populous, Syndicate, Theme Park, Dungeon Keeper, Black & White and Fable to his name.

You would’ve thought an announcement of a new Halo game would be huge news, but the reaction’s been a bit muted because many wanted to know what kind of game was it.

Now, Microsoft can at least confirm that the upcoming Halo: Reach is indeed what we wanted it to be.

Microsoft’s John Schappert has confirmed to Joystiq that “Of course, it’s an FPS”, when asked if Halo: Reach was a FPS.

[Halo: Reach is an FPS via Joystiq]

During the Microsoft keynote, Epic Games revealed their upcoming title Shadow Complex, which is the developers first arcade title, coming exclusive to Xbox Live arcade.

The game combines the best of old-school side-scroller design with modern, cutting-edge gameplay and incredible high-definition graphics. Collect power-ups, discover new abilities and evolve your character into a force of destruction as you explore an original story set in the world of Orson Scott Card’s best-selling novel, Empire.

Following the recent showcase during the Microsoft keynote, we have just received latest screens for UbiSoft’s upcoming title Splinter Cell: Conviction. As you can see, the game has really “gone back to the drawing borad” changing its perceptive from what it once was.

Coming exclusively to Xbox 360 this fall, unleash the ferocious skills of renegade agent Sam Fisher and uncover a deadly terrorist plot in “Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell: Conviction.” Completely reinvented and revolutionized, “Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell: Conviction” ushers in a new breed of action gameplay leaving players fully immersed in the life of the world’s most dangerous spy.

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As expected by so many of us, during the Microsoft Keynote today in Los Angeles, Bungie revealed its development on the latest Halo title, Halo: Reach.

Thanks to the very short teaser trailer that was shown during the keynote, Halo: Reach is due for release in Fall 2010. Along with the reveal, it was said that if you buy the Halo 3 expansion, Halo: ODST, you’ll get an invite to the Reach MP beta.

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In case you missed the pure amazement that was the Microsoft keynote, Gametrailers has just posted the Crackdown 2 debut trailer that was shown during the conference this morning. There isn’t anything new about the trailer because, once again, its the same trailer from this morning.

Coming exclusively to Xbox 360 in 2010, Crackdown 2 will take multiplayer2 gaming to unprecedented levels for the ultimate cooperative and competitive multiplayer experience, providing you and your friends with the complete freedom to explore, destroy and play as you return to restore justice and peace to Pacific City — by any means necessary.

Beside reports stating that the game is an on going discussion, during the Microsoft keynote, Microsoft unveiled Crackdown 2 via a trailer.

Coming exclusively to Xbox 360 in 2010, Crackdown 2 will take multiplayer2 gaming to unprecedented levels for the ultimate cooperative and competitive multiplayer experience, providing you and your friends with the complete freedom to explore, destroy and play as you return to restore justice and peace to Pacific City — by any means necessary.

Holy cow… This maybe a bit too soon, but has Microsoft just debuted a Left 4 Dead 2 trailer during its E3 Press Conference. There wasn’t much details given at the conference about the game, but according to end the trailer the game will be releasing on November 17th of this year. The game is set to release exclusively for Xbox 360 and PC.

That’s right. According to a twitter post made by Tony Hawk himself, he’ll be showing of Tony Hawk Ride, the newest installment in to the Tony Hawk frachise, at the Microsoft E3 Keynote in LA tomorrow.

“Just practiced my part for Microsoft’s E3 keynote tomorrow (introducing #thride),” said Hawk. “First time I’ve ever had to wear make-up for a rehearsal.”

Well, it looks like someone on the Xbox Team is going to be humiliated during the MS keynote, much like what happened at the Nintendo Keynote last year – but not you Tony, we’ll be fine.

Tony Hawk: Ride features a wireless skateboard controller designed in conjunction with the game to offer a dynamic gaming experience built from the ground up. Using a combination of accelerometers and motion sensors, the intuitive controller allows players to physically control the action by performing various movements and gestures on the board that directly translate into amazing tricks in the game.

You know what’s amazing? A one hundred percent hand drawn proof video game (you know like alcohol?) such as King of Fighters XII and the way its online features work.

King of Fighters XII’s online play is run through a lobby system. Two players will fight it out while up to six other players wait in line for their turn. While they’re waiting, they can chat via voice or text. Depending on the lobby’s settings, the winner or loser of the match will continue playing. You can also randomize the match-ups if you wish.

Including: Winner Stays: Winner fights the next opponent in line; Loser Stays: Loser stays and gets to fight the next opponent in line; Sparring – The players that are to fight are randomized after each match.

The game also features a online ranking system and leaderboard system, which grades each player’s performances and keeps track of their best Time Attack times. Along with a public leaderboard. Due out this July for Xbox360 and PlayStation3, KOFXII offers exclusive online features for each system;

PS3: Exclusive Clan Mode that allows players to create clans, recruit clan members, blacklist players and compete against other clans. Xbox 360: Exclusive Truskill online ranking lets players record, replay and share matches.

Remember Gay Tony? Well, now you can’t forget. Rockstar Games today announced that the second round of downloadable content for GTA IV is entitled The Ballad of Gay Tony.

In contrast to the seedy biker gang expansion that is The Lost and Damned, The Ballad of Gay Tony is said to focus on the glitzy “high-end night life” of Liberty City. The exclusive 360 episode will put players in the role of Luis Lopez, as his part-time hoodlum duties are supplemented by full-time work for nightclub impresario Tony “Gay Tony” Prince.

“Liberty City is the most vibrant game world we’ve created yet. The episodic structure has allowed us to interweave stories, gameplay and atmosphere in a whole new way,” said Sam Houser, Founder of Rockstar Games.

“The team at Rockstar North have yet again surpassed themselves, and made something that is both epic and very innovative. This episode’s focus on high-end night life contrasts with the biker gangs portrayed in The Lost and Damned, whilst giving us a lot of new gameplay possibilities.”

The DLC will release for Microsoft’s console this fall for $19.99, or 1600 MS points, and will require players to have a copy of Grand Theft Auto IV and an Xbox Live membership in order to download it.

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With the recent showing of the “Games of the Year” Halo 3 and Fable 2 Xbox 360 Elite combination, it seems that Microsoft is planning on adding another Bundle to its list. But, this one will feature a Grand Theft Auto combination.

According to a retail listing Kotaku received earlier this week – which showed the Nintendo DS “Mother’s Day Bundle” which was announced recently – it showed a listing for an $399.99 price tag featuring a Grand Theft Auto IV and Xbox 360 Elite Bundle.

No release date, no expanded information on what, beyond GTA IV, will be included in the package. But, it was speculated that its most likely the first downloadable episode, The Lost & Damned.

Expected later on by adventure eager players, it now seems that Uncharted 2: Among Thieves will be releasing this September in Europe.

According to an update on the European PlayStation site, the game’s release date is scheduled for this September. However, the game was originally schedule for an Quarter 4 release, which was stated when the game was announced late last year.

In addition, the official site also confirms that the game doesn’t feature an mutli-player mode. But, sadly, this isn’t a official confirm so we’d have to wait for an officially announcement if there’s really any release date change.

[Uncharted 2 em Setembro? via Eurogamer.pt]

Today, at the Xbox 360 Spring Press Conference in Tokyo, Yoshihisa Kanesaka of Namco Bandai took the stage to revealed their upcoming game, Magna Carta 2 – which is only releasing on the 360.

Along with the reveal of the game, he also showed the first game play for the game (located below). Magna Carta 2 is expected to release in Japan on 8/6/2009, and Japanese pre-order-ers will get a special visual book for doing so.

However, no word has been given on if we’re going to see an American release, but it’s likely that we are going to be getting one.

In the latest episode of GameTrailers TV, 2K Games revealed the first proper showing of the sequel to BioShock, BioShock 2, in the form of a trailer, which was handed down to GTTV. The sequel looks very remanisant to the first game, but instead of playing a person who stumbled upon the Rapature after a plane cash, you’d be taking on the roll of the first ever Big Daddy. BioShock 2 is set to be released on the PS3, Xbox 360, and PC in late 2009. 

Remember when Capcom was nice enough to announce Lost Planet 2 via Xbox Live but only for the 360, and how there was a ton of speculation on whether, or not, it would be coming to PS3?

Well, it looks like Capcom is still thinking about it, but let’s hope they come up with something, soon.

“We’re still thinking about it and haven’t announced a PS3 version, so we can’t say more about it just yet,” producer Jun Takeuchi told Gamesradar.

Takeuchi explained the reason as of why they revealed the game via Xbox Live.

“We wanted to show the game first and foremost to fans of the original Lost Planet,” he added. “We talked to Microsoft about doing it this way and they were interested in it as well. Also, I think it was a unique and memorable way to announce the game.”

Capcom has finally confirmed that the Resident Evil 5 Versus Mode DLC will be released on Xbox LIVE and PlayStation Network this week.

Available from tomorrow, the DLC will set you back $5 on PSN (or 400 Microsoft Points) and it will included the following new multiplayer modes:

Slayer – A point-based game that challenges players to kill Majinis.
Survivor – Players hunt the most dangerous game, each other!

Players can pick from Chris, Sheva and any of the hidden characters in a one-on-one or two-versus-two setting for either gameplay modes.

A THQ rep has confirm with us today that Red Faction: Guerrilla has been given a release date of June 9, 2009.

Along with that, we were told that a demo will be releasing on April 23th with any GameStop pre-order of the game, which gives you about three weeks before its release date. 

In Red Faction: Guerrilla, the protagonist Alec will be able to run, jump, hijack vehicles, and use weapons to traverse across the open world of Mars and fight the EDF (Earth Defense Force).

Weapons in the game will include; machine gun turrets, rocket turrets, remote charges, a sledgehammer, machine guns, along with many others. Red Faction: Guerrilla will feature a third-person point of view - all previous Red Faction games were played from  a first-person perspective.

Besides all the controversy over the game’s downloadable content not being free, and that it didn’t come with the full retail version of the game. We can, without a doubt, tell you that the downloadable content for Resident Evil 5 has indeed been delayed, which Capcom announced this morning.

Earlier this month, Capcom announced Resident Evil 5′s ‘versus mode’ DLC will becoming to the market, which means that it’s going to be on both PSN and Live – sorry for the messed up translation. They also revealed the games prices on the system’s marketplaces ($5 on the Playstation Network and 400 Microsoft Points on Live).

They have announced that it has changed its released date to April 9, according to Capcom’s Japanese notice – it’s only for Japan kids. “We deeply apologize to those customers who have been waiting for this down loadable content,” Capcom states.

In an attempt to divert from the ways of the first BioShock, a company spokesperson has revealed 2K Games’  plans to release the game ‘simultaneous’ on all platforms.

“We’re aiming for simultaneous release on all platforms (Xbox 360, PS3 and PC),” a company spokesperson told CVG, with the promise of details on the sequel’s illusive multi-player mode “soon enough”, and it really can’t be “SOON ENOUGH”!!! The game is anticipated to be released late 2009.

I’m not surprised. Today, Microsoft was candid enough to announced that sales of Halo Wars have surpassed more than one million units worldwide, which means that it’s now the fastest selling RTS on any nex-gen console.

Set in the year 2525, Halo Wars takes players on a perilous journey through the famed Halo universe. As players take the command seat in the early, epic battles between the UNSC and Covenant, they will begin to unravel events 20 years before Halo: Combat Evolved that shaped the franchise into what it is today.

The game has a total of; 2.6 million multiplayer matches played, 118 years of time has been spent in multiplayer matches on Xbox Live.

For years now Sony has been searching for the perfect game to conquer Microsoft’s Halo. Back when the first version of Killzone was released it got mediocre review scores because it was a “cracked shooter.” Now, it seems that Killzone has made a return, but this time it isn’t promising to be a “Halo killer,” it’s promising to be a new and redefined experience. But, can it deliver? Yes, I can say that it has but what qualities of this title deliver such an experience?

In Killzone 2, you play as a new character to the series, Sergeant Tomas Sevchenko. Instead of calling him Tomas they call him “Sev,” which can sound a lot like “Sav” at some points. Sev is a part of a four-man team known as Alpha Squad, led by series-known character Rico, who was in the first two games, including the PSP title. You and your teammates, Garza and Natko, fight your way through Helghan completing a vast amount of missions. Most importantly, you find yourself trying to capture Emperor Scolar Visari, the Helghast leader.

Taking place two years after the Helghast assault on Vekta, the ISA (Interplanetary Strategic Alliance) has launched an attack on the enemy’s homeland, Helghan. Their goal: take out the leader, Visari. That’s the story, in a nutshell, and MAN, is it good, on both paper and in playing out. But, I’ll say that there are some very weak points in the story. As for one thing, Rico really isn’t a likable character because he’s just annoying. This shows a weakness in the game’s story when it comes to the emotional department. But, other than that, the story is very strong. Sometimes, though, the game’s progression feels a bit sluggish.

Being the most visible part of the title, the game’s visuals stick out like a sore thumb all over. This really is the best-looking game to date. The character models are amazing and the graphical details in the game are, I don’t think that I can say this in a review, off the chain! But, there are some very bad low-res features to be seen, like the zip that comes out of the healer gun and the fire that shoots out the Flamethrower – they are just very last-gen, graphically. Looking into it, the game also has some strong features; the water effects shine and when it comes to the cut scenes the game put on its mega top hat and showed us a step or two.

To add to the graphical detail, the game has a very strong pick-up-and-play control mechanic, which works almost perfectly with most players. However, just like Superman, even this has its kryptonite. Luckily, the game allows you to change the control type, and there are multiple schemes to choose from. Fortunately, the cover mechanics are also very indebted. On the other hand, it kind of feels as though it was dragged on at some points. But, when you finally get how it works, there’s no stopping you.

The AI is very strong in every way, but one thing I didn’t get was why the AI always advance when you are near them. I know that it’s just a video game, but it feels as if they want you to kill them. Don’t get me wrong, they do perform the very technical things that most AI characters do – taking cover and being intelligent – but that’s just one thing that makes me upset. They can also be very resourceful and fighting a group of them at some points can be a BIG challenge, most of the time. Also, they come featured in many character types and each time you respond it feels like as if you are playing a new level.

Killzone 2 gives you an enormous array of weapons to pick from, such as flamethowers and more – you wouldn’t be bored with the weapons in this title. There also is the unique aspect to each weapon, giving you the chance to build your own strategies. You can only carry 2 weapons at a time, the primary weapon and secondary weapon – which generally deals with heavier weaponry.

Another great thing about this title is its multi-player, which will keep you playing for hours on end. The game gives you a long list of unlockables to pick from. It gives you the ability to pick your own map after each round is done. The level design in the maps are up to pair with any title currently available, but one thing we didn’t find so good with the multi-player is the unacceptably bad lag. It has to be one of the biggest problems in the games multi-player, but people at Guerilla Games say that they are working hard to resolve this problem. Also, they removed the cover system, which, lets face it, wouldn’t work in the multi-player areas of the game..

Anyway, the game’s Warzone feature for the multi-player mode really is something unique. It keeps you on your feet and things are always interesting in this mode. You start out as a normal soldier, then slowly advance throughout the rankings to things such as a Saboteur, Scout, etc.There are about six classes in total, but online you should expect the most popular class to dominate the field because not everyone wants to be the Scout. The game also deals out eight maps, but you will find yourself playing some more than others, because people are quick to click the first pick.

Closing Statements:

I feel that the game really has lived up to its hype, besides its minor jumps and skips. This game is time well-played. But, as I said, this game is far from perfect and with that I feel that this is one of the “must-play games of the year.” But, not because it’s so great; it’s because it does so many things right that it’s hard to go wrong. Also, the multi-player is a time eater. That is, if you have a high speed internet connection. Be advised that there’s no local multi-player! Keep that in mind, and you’ll find yourself playing for hours on end.

Score: A+

Ignition Entertainment has confirmed that King of Fighters XII will be coming to the Xbox 360 and Playstation 3 this Summer. The game has had its up and downs as of lately with one of the longest development cycles for any series title to date, but that is okay. Only if we can get a great game at the end.

But, with time we’ll be able to see how the game has been rebuild from the ground up – with an all new engine and a in-depth improved character sprites. Speaking of, you can view the trailer here.

Yes, Killzone 2 really is landmark for Sony in this ‘nex-gen war’, but, as you know, the war isn’t over until the fat lady sings and it looks Microsoft has a truly long list of songs for her to go through before she’s finished.

When being asked about Killzone 2 and the future of Microsoft, a Microsoft spokesmen told GameGuru that ‘unannounced Xbox 360 exclusives far surpasses what gamers have seen in any game so far’ in the technology aspect of things, which can mean anything – not only graphically.

“We congratulate Sony and Guerilla Games for their efforts with Killzone 2, however this is only the beginning of a new wave. The current technology employed for certain unannounced Xbox 360 exclusives far surpasses what gamers have seen in any game so far. Gears of War was the beginning of this technological benchmark when released on the 360 and this lineage will be carried forward in the following months with exclusives that shall stand for a new definition of gaming experience and provide stiff competition for the opposition.”

It looks like being famous pays itself off because being the DLC for one of the most repected games on the market your definitely going to set some kind of record.

Today, Micrsoft revealed that the DLC for Grand Theft Auto IV has set an Xbox Live sales record, but, sadly, they weren’t candid about revealing how much it sold. According to the company, the downloadable content has “eclipsed first-day revenue for all previous down-loadable content on Xbox LIVE”.

“The success of ‘Grand Theft Auto IV: The Lost and Damned’ redefines what consumers expect from Game Add-ons,” said Marc Whitten, general manager of Xbox LIVE. “Content like this is extending the lives of our favorite games and fundamentally changing the way we play.”

Well, with that said, it’s kind of point less revealing this when they didn’t even release the sales of the game.

Update: Apparently, they are going to reveal the title not announce it.

Original: In what wouldn’t be their first time in creating such a product for the 360, Capcom has revealed that it has another exclusive product for the Xbox 360 underway. And according to many sources they plan to reveal the product in a very special way, special indeed.

According to Capcom, on Monday, Feburary 23rd, Capcom’s brand new title trailer will be available on Xbox Live Marketplace. But, there’s one question that’s on top of all of our minds and that is what could it be? But, we inspect that it could be the new Lost Planet title because they are yet too announced the title and they rushed to announce the Dead Rising sequel.

Anyway, in order to download the trailer you are going to need to have an Xbox Live account.

In celebration of the release of the first Downloadable Content for Grand Theft Auto 4, Microsoft has announced a week free of multi-player for Grand Theft Auto 4. The experience will give players the chance to play for a total six days, all together – no more or less.

The deal will start from 9 AM on February 17 and continuing until midnight of February 22 for only players with the ability to access Xbox Live.

The company has planned a full slate of Xbox Live events during the time period including a chance to play the game online with members of the development team at Rockstar Games.