Sydney, Australia – June 3, 2009 – Start your engines! Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: ERTS) announced that Need for Speed™ SHIFT will feature 18 authentic race tracks and over 65 pixel-perfect cars including the one-of-a-kind BMW M3 GT2 that will grace the cover. The spectacular SHIFT cover car is one of the fastest, most powerful cars ever to be featured in a Need for Speed game. Designed to deliver a true drivers experience, SHIFT boasts legendary cars from the past 35 years, each one modeled to deliver an incredible sense of speed and realism.

At Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3) in Los Angeles, gamers will also get a first look at a wide spectrum of the seminal performance machines in the game, including classic cars like the 1972 Nissan Skyline 2000GT-R, renowned tuners like 1995 Mazda RX-7, and ultra-exclusive exotic cars like the 2007 Lamborghini Reventón. The best way to show off these hot rides is to take them for a spin on the track. Need for Speed SHIFT features over 50 unique layouts across 18 tracks including real-world locations and fictional circuits. Players can race on world-renowned tracks like the grueling 20 km Nordschleife or meticulously-designed fictional circuits found in Glendale with its steep grades, hairpin corners and blind crests.

“Need for Speed SHIFT is about the intense power and emotion of being behind the wheel and this carefully selected list of cars and tracks was chosen to give players the ultimate driving moment,” said Patrick Soderlund, Senior Vice President at EA Games Europe. “SHIFT is the evolution of racing genre. We’re delivering the first truly immersive driving game by combining perfectly modelled cars and tracks with the dramatic realism of the true driver’s experience.”

Need for Speed SHIFT car roster:

2006 Aston Martin DBR9
 
2009 Audi R8 LMS
 
2008 Audi R8
 
2008 Audi RS 4
 
2007 Audi S3
 
2007 Audi TT 3.2 quattro
 
2006 Audi S4
 
BMW M3 E36
 
BMW M3 E46
 
BMW M3 E92
 
2008 BMW 135i Coupé
 
2009 BMW M3 GT2
 
2007 BMW Z4 M Coupé
 
2008 Bugatti Veyron 16.4
 
2006 Dodge Challenger Concept
 
2008 Dodge Viper SRT10
 
Falken Tire 2010 Ford Mustang GT
 
2010 Ford Shelby GT500
 
2007 Ford Focus ST
 
2006 Ford GT
 
2006 Need For Speed Shelby Terlingua
 
1996 Ford Escort RS Cosworth
 
2009 Chevrolet Camaro SS
 
2006 Chevrolet Cobalt SS
 
2006 Chevrolet Corvette Z06
 
2006 Honda Civic Si
 
2000 Honda S2000
 
2006 Koenigsegg CCX
 
2008 Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4
 
2007 Lamborghini Murciélago LP640
 
2007 Lamborghini Reventón
 
2006 Lotus Elise 111R
 
2007 Lotus Exige S
 
2005 Maserati MC12 GT1
 
2008 Mazda MX-5
 
2006 Mazda RX-8
 
1995 Mazda RX-7
 
1994 McLaren F1
 
2007 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 722 Edition
 
2007 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG
 
2008 Mitsubishi Lancer EVOLUTION
 
2006 Mitsubishi Lancer EVOLUTION IX MR-edition
 
2003 Infiniti G35 (V35)
 
1997 Nissan 200SX (S14)
 
2009 Nissan 370Z  (Z34)
 
2006 Nissan 350Z (Z33)
 
2009 Nissan GT-R SpecV (R35)
 
2008 Nissan GT-R (R35)
 
2000 Nissan Silvia (S15) spec.R AERO
 
1999 Nissan Skyline GT-R (R34)
 
1972 Nissan Skyline 2000GT-R
 
1992 Nissan 240SX (S13)
 
2006 Pagani Zonda F
 
2010 Pagani Zonda R
 
2008 Porsche 911 GT2
 
2009 Porsche 911 GT3 RSR
 
2006 Porsche 911 GT3 RS
 
2004 Porsche Carrera GT
 
2007 Porsche Cayman S
 
2008 Renault Mégane RS
 
2007 SEAT Leon CUPRA
 
2006 Subaru Impreza WRX STi
 
2007 Lexus LF-A Concept
 
2008 SCION tC
 
1986 Toyota Corolla GTS (A86)
 
2008 Volkswagen Scirocco
 
2006 Volkswagen Golf GTI
 

Need for Speed SHIFT track list:

1.     Alpental
 
2.     Autopolis International Racing Course
 
3.     Ambush Canyon
 
4.     Brands Hatch
 
5.     Dakota
 
6.     Ebisu Circuit
 
7.     Glendale
 
8.     Hazyview
 
9.     Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca
 
10.   London
 
11.   Miytomi
 
12.   Nordschleife
 
13.   Road America
 
14.   Rustle Creek
 
15.   Silverstone
 
16.   Circuit de Spa Francorchamps
 
17.   Tokyo
 
18.   Willow Springs
 

Need for Speed SHIFT is being developed by Slightly Mad Studios in collaboration with Black Box and Patrick Soderlund. Slightly Mad Studios includes developers and designers that worked on the critically acclaimed games GT Legends and GTR 2. The PSP® (PlayStation® Portable) version is being developed by EA’s Bright Light studio.

Need for Speed SHIFT is scheduled to be available in Australian retail stores on September 24th on the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system, Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system, PC and PSP.  More information can be found at www.needforspeed.com or follow us on Twitter at NeedforSpeed.  Press can download assets at http://info.ea.com.

AMD Introduces Next Generation AMD Athlon™ II Processor, Adds Dual Core to Record-Setting AMD Phenom™ II Processor Lineup

? AMD Athlon™ II processor delivers new native dual-core architecture, efficient 45nm technology and 3 GHz performance at an affordable price ?
 
? AMD Phenom™ II X2 Black Edition processor combines value and unlocked potential for gamers and tuners on a budget ?

Sydney, Australia— June 3, 2009 — Bringing its acclaimed 45nm technology to new high-volume processor designs, AMD (NYSE: AMD) today announced two new dual-core desktop processors. Building on 10 years of AMD Athlon™ processor innovation, the new 45nm AMD Athlon™ II X2 250 processor gives mainstream consumers exceptional performance, efficiency and value. For enthusiasts and overclockers, AMD also announces the AMD Phenom™ II X2 550 Black Edition processor, the first ever dual-core AMD Phenom II CPU.* With this latest addition to the AMD Phenom II processor family, users can now experience the power of AMD platform technology, codenamed “Dragon,” with dual-, triple- and quad-core configurations.

AMD Athlon II X2 Processor Details
•The AMD Athlon II X2 250 performs exceptionally well when combined with AMD chipsets and integrated graphics solutions to create an all-AMD platform.  Platforms featuring all-AMD technology can deliver up to twice the graphics performance of those with Intel integrated graphics.¹
•Windows® 7 is optimized for multi-core processors like AMD Athlon™ II processors to give consumers an amazingly fast, simple and engaging PC experience.** For example, Windows 7 is tuned to make the most of the these new processors’ power management features, such as AMD PowerNow!™ 3.0 technology. AMD power management technologies, in combination with Windows 7, can help OEMs and partners to build exceptionally green, cool and quiet PCs.
•Based on AMD’s acclaimed 45nm process technology,  the AMD Athlon II dual-core processor has a TDP of 65W  and  can slash power consumption by up to 50 percent when doing basic tasks, up to 40 percent when running heavy workloads and up to 50 percent when at idle.²

AMD Phenom II X2 550 Black Edition Details
•AMD Black Edition processors, like the AMD Phenom™ II X2 550, help users to take control and unleash the maximum potential of Dragon platform technology’s unprecedented performance tuning capabilities.* The same massive headroom that set world records in recent months is at users’ finger tips, offering impressive performance at a price the competition can’t beat.³
•Users can also maximize their overclocking experience by utilizing the new features and capabilities of AMD OverDrive™ 3.0, designed to enable quick and effective tuning of their PC experience for optimal performance.*
•With dual-, triple- or quad-core processors, AMD provides platform level solutions at multiple price points, each of which exceeds expectations for virtually any user

Product and Pricing Summary
Vendor:AMD
Model:AMD Phenom™ II X2 550 Black Edition
         AMD Athlon™ II X2 250 Processor
RRP for AMD Phenom™ II X2 550 Black Edition: A$149, NZ$185
RRP for AMD Athlon™ II X2 250: A$119, NZ$149
Website: http://www.amd.com
Australia and New Zealand Distributors:  Avnet, Synnex and Ingram
Availability: Now

Other Resources:
•Press looking for more information on AMD Athlon II X2 250 and AMD Phenom II X2 550 Black Edition, click here.
•Click here for more detail on AMD processor pricing.
•Compare AMD Phenom II processors.
•Find out more about Dragon platform technology and see it in action.
•Check out all of AMD’s processors and get more information here.
•Follow AMD desktop updates on Twitter: @AMDDesktop.
•Hear what AMD executives have to say on AMD blogs.
•In collaboration with Thermaltake and BMW Group DesignworksUSA, comes an ideal environment for AMD’s high-performance CPU and GPU solutions – the Level 10 Limited Edition chassis. Check it out!

About AMD
Advanced Micro Devices (NYSE: AMD) is an innovative technology company dedicated to collaborating with customers and technology partners to ignite the next generation of computing and graphics solutions at work, home and play. For more information, visit http://www.amd.com.

High-end gaming systems, all-in-ones and Nettops are examples of accelerated innovation in today’s desktop market. Today at Computex, Rob Crooke, vice president and general manager of Intel Corporation’s Business Client Group, described how new advancements in Intel silicon provide a foundation for industry innovation and create new growth opportunities.

End of the Beige Box — The worldwide desktop market is moving from one high-volume market model to four distinct evolving segments.  
           o    Corporate – This market has a focus on productivity, manageability and security.
           o    Nettops – Cost-effective Internet access.
           o    Lifestyle and Small Form Factor (SFF) – Stylish, media-orientated and energy efficient.
           o    Enthusiast – High performance for great gaming and media creation. Larger enclosures are often
                 used for expandability. Some adventurous users even like to overclock and tune their systems for even
                 higher performance.                   

Intel Announces Two Intel® Core™ i7 Processors — Intel announced two Intel Core i7 processor SKUs: model number 975 at 3.33GHz and 950 at 3.06GHz. The Intel Core i7 processor is acknowledged by the industry as the most advanced and highest-performing enthusiast processor on the planet.

Nehalem Going Mainstream — The upcoming “Lynnfield” and Intel® P55 Express Chipset platform brings Intel’s Nehalem microarchitecture to the mainstream. “Lynnfield,” in production in 2H ’09, is a new eight-thread, four-core “Nehalem”-based processor with Intel® Turbo Boost Technology. “Lynnfield” features an intelligent architecture that delivers faster multi-tasking, digital media creation and gaming performance. The Intel P55 Express Chipset will be the first Intel 5 Series desktop chipset to support “Lynnfield,” and is a single chip solution designed for high performance and lower power via higher integration. Expect 40 per cent better SPECint* rate_base 2006 performance with the “Lynnfield”-based platform1 , compared to last year’s “Penryn”-based mainstream solutions (Intel® Core™ Q9650 processor-based platform).

Richard Malinowski Discusses Chipset Trends — Richard Malinowski, vice president, Intel Mobility Group and general manager of Client Components Group, took the stage to discuss system platform evolution. The Intel® 5 Series Chipset family is Intel’s first single-chip chipset solution. Intel chipsets have evolved from simply connecting components to providing a whole range of innovation and capabilities. The transition from three chips to two chips results in smaller form factor systems and less power usage.

Move to Smaller Form Factors — Intel foresees the move to stylish energy-efficient desktops that don’t give up on performance. IDC estimates that 34 per cent of worldwide desktop PC TAM in 2009 will be driven by small form factor (SFF), ultra small form factor (uSFF), tiny, and all-in-one designs2. In addition, 25 per cent of Intel boards worldwide are shipped today on the mini-ITX form factor, supporting the trend in the desktop market to go smaller. Intel also is working with the display industry to bring more all-in-one form factors to market.

2010 Platform on Track — “Clarkdale,” a Nehalem-based processor with an integrated graphics die within the processor package, on track to begin production in Q4 ’09. “Clarkdale” is built on Intel’s second-generation 32nm Hi-K process technology. “Clarkdale” will be supported by the Intel 5 Series chipset platform and will include new capabilities, such as a flash-based caching technology called “Braidwood.” “Braidwood” will improve disk access performance, depending on usage, and is scheduled to be featured on mainstream motherboards in 2010.

Nettops and Pine Trail Platform — Nettops are the desktop equivalent of netbooks, being Atom™-based small form factor systems primarily for Internet use. Nettops are designed to deliver affordable computing solutions around the world and cross the digital divide. The major attributes of Nettops are (1) basic computing and internet access, (2) affordable, space-saving and energy efficient and (3) trusted Intel technology known for quality and reliability. “Pine Trail-D,” an innovative 2 chip Atom solution, will be at the heart of Nettops and is scheduled for production in Q4 ’09.

——————————————————————————–

1Performance tests and ratings are measured using specific systems and/or components and reflect approximate performance of Intel products as measured by those tests. Any difference in system hardware, software or configuration may affect actual performance. Buyers should consult other sources of information to evaluate performance of systems or components they are considering purchasing. For more information on performance tests and performance of Intel products, visit www.intel.com/performance/resources/limits.htm.

2Source: IDC, Worldwide and U.S. PC Client Sub Form Factor 2009–2013 Forecast Apr 2009 – Doc # 217641

* Other brand and names are the property of their respective owners

LOS ANGELES — June 2, 2009 — Rock out. Duck and cover. Shift into overdrive. On the eve of the Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3), Microsoft Corp. today made it perfectly clear: no matter who you are or what games you crave, Xbox 360 is the gaming and entertainment console for you. 

Xbox 360 today unveiled a lineup that is sure to tip the scales in favour of more — more fun, more entertainment value and more games available only on Xbox 360.

The list of Xbox exclusives announced includes “Forza Motorsport 3,” “Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell Conviction™,” “Left 4 Dead 2”, “Alan Wake”, “Shadow Complex,” “Crackdown 2,” blockbuster “Halo 3: ODST” and the surprise announce of Halo trilogy prequel “Halo: Reach.” Sharing the stage were blockbusters “Modern Warfare 2” and the game that proves there’s nothing you can sing that can’t be sung, “The Beatles: Rock Band.”

“We know that your fun and our success boil down to one thing: our ability to make games that are creative, diverse and entertaining. This year, we deliver in spades with the biggest and best lineup in our history,” said Phil Spencer, general manager of the global Microsoft Game Studios business. “We have something for everyone with our best and broadest lineup ever.”

Heart-Thumping Entertainment, Exclusively on Xbox 360

Get behind the wheel of an Audi R8 V10 in “Forza Motorsport 3,” jump into the immersive movie-like action of “Alan Wake,” and download “Shadow Complex,” the newest Xbox LIVE Arcade game from the minds behind the blockbuster “Gears of War” franchise. Some of the most exciting games in 2009 and beyond are only on Xbox 360, including the following:

·            “Alan Wake” (Remedy/Microsoft Game Studios). “Alan Wake” is the all-new psychological action thriller from the renowned creators of the “Max Payne” franchise. Coming in 2010 and exclusive to Xbox 360, “Alan Wake” will immerse players in an intense cinematic thrill ride of dreams and reality, where light is the only ally.

·           “Crackdown 2” (Ruffian Games/Microsoft Game Studios). The sequel to the award-winning “Crackdown,” “Crackdown 2” is the premier open-ended action experience that lets you be judge, jury and executioner for a vast city. Coming exclusively to Xbox 360 in 2010, “Crackdown 2” will take multiplayer gaming to unprecedented levels for the ultimate cooperative and competitive multiplayer experience, providing you and your friends with the freedom to explore, destroy and play as you return to restore justice and peace to Pacific City — by any means necessary.

·           “Final Fantasy® XIII” (Square Enix). For the first time, the world-renowned “Final Fantasy” will make a new home on Xbox 360 with the upcoming release of “Final Fantasy XIII,” the eagerly anticipated title from Square Enix. “Final Fantasy XIII” uses the power and cutting-edge technology of Xbox 360 to deliver seamless transitions between real-time gameplay and in-game cinematics as gamers summon the courage to execute powerful attacks with an evolved Active Time Battle system and ultimately fulfill their destiny.

·           “Forza Motorsport 3” (Turn 10/Microsoft Game Studios). Launching this October, “Forza Motorsport 3” is the definitive racing game for everyone from hardcore tuners to anyone who’s ever dreamed of driving at full-throttle. Backed by breathtaking HD graphics and bone-jarring physics, you’ll take the wheel of more than 400 of the most-beloved cars on over 100 renowned real-world tracks and exotic road courses from around the globe. “Forza Motorsport 3” includes driving assists and adjustable skill levels to make the game a gripping pick-up-and-play experience for audiences of all ages and skill levels, while new customisation and sharing tools will further fuel the imaginations of the thriving “Forza Motorsport” community on Xbox LIVE.

·           “Gears of War 2: Dark Corners” (Epic Games Inc.). The “Gears of War 2: Dark Corners” game add-on includes seven brand new multiplayer maps and a new campaign chapter, “Road to Ruin.” “Dark Corners” launches on Xbox LIVE Marketplace on July 28. The entertainment blockbuster of 2008, “Gears of War 2” has now surpassed 5 million copies sold worldwide.

·           “Halo 3: ODST” (Bungie). Launching Sept. 22, “Halo 3: ODST” is a new game in the landmark “Halo” saga that lets players experience the events leading up to the epic story told in “Halo 3” through the eyes of a special forces ODST (Orbital Drop Shock Trooper). In addition to an all-new campaign, “ODST” includes three new “Halo 3” multiplayer maps and the complete, stand-alone “Halo 3” multiplayer experience*. The game also introduces Firefight, an exciting new cooperative multiplayer mode that pits up to four players against increasingly challenging waves of enemies. As a special bonus, “Halo 3: ODST” also includes an invitation to the “Halo: Reach”* multiplayer beta on Xbox LIVE. Also, launching on the same date with “Halo 3: ODST” is the “Halo 3: ODST Collector’s Pack,” which offers “Halo” fans a new and exclusive wireless controller and the game title in one package at a great price.

·           “Joy Ride” (Big Park/Microsoft Game Studios). Avatars, start your engines! Full of wild driving fun, “Joy Ride” will get your adrenaline pumping as you tear up the track with your friends, or jump, flip and trick your way through the Stunt Park as you work with the whole community to unlock rewards. “Joy Ride” is free to download and gives you all new ways to play, whether you’re looking for a quick game or a deep, custom social experience, all on Xbox LIVE*. Design your dream car or purchase new tracks, game modes and avatar items. You can share the racetracks and game modes with your friends so no one is ever left out.

·           “Left 4 Dead 2” (Valve). “Left 4 Dead 2” is the sequel to the best-selling and critically acclaimed cooperative multiplayer smash from Valve, creators of “Half-Life,” “Portal,” “Team Fortress” and “Counter-Strike.” Introducing melee weapons and new enemies to the original’s award-winning gameplay, “L4D2” casts players as one of four new “Survivors” battling zombie hordes as they travel from Savannah, Georgia, through to New Orleans’ French Quarter.

·           “Shadow Complex” (Epic Games Inc. and Chair Entertainment Group/Microsoft Game Studios). New from Epic Games and Chair Entertainment, “Shadow Complex” 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.” “Shadow Complex” marries the quality and depth of a full retail title with the accessibility you love, exclusively on Xbox 360 and Xbox LIVE Arcade.

·           “Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell Conviction™” (Ubisoft). Coming exclusively to Xbox 360 this spring, 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 revolutionised, “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. Take full advantage of the 20 million member Xbox LIVE community in this latest installment of the award-winning “Splinter Cell” franchise.

Blockbusters Here, There, Everywhere on Xbox 360

Xbox 360 pairs some of this year’s blockbuster must-have titles like from Infinity Ward, “Modern Warfare 2,” “The Beatles: Rock Band” and “Tony Hawk: RIDE” with Xbox LIVE, the world’s largest social network on your TV. The result? As the world’s largest online gaming network, Xbox LIVE gives you more friends to play with and its exclusive collection of Game Add-ons ensures the fun never ends. It leaves only one question: Why would you play these blockbusters anywhere else?

·            “Modern Warfare 2” (Infinity Ward/Activision). On Nov. 10, 2009, Infinity Ward will make its return with the release of “Modern Warfare 2” on Xbox 360, one of the highly anticipated games of the year and the sequel to the best-selling first-person action game of all time, “Call of Duty® 4: Modern Warfare™.” “Modern Warfare 2” continues the gripping and heart-racing saga with an unprecedented level of action as players face off against a new threat dedicated to bringing the world to the brink of collapse.

·           “The Beatles: Rock Band” (Harmonix/MTV Games). On September 9, 2009, “The Beatles: Rock Band” will allow fans all over the world to pick-up the guitar, bass, mic or drums and experience The Beatles’ extraordinary catalogue of music through gameplay that takes players on a journey through the legacy and evolution of the band’s legendary career.

In addition, “The Beatles: Rock Band” offers Beatles fans the opportunity to rock out with new hardware replica controllers modeled after instruments used by John Lennon, Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr throughout their careers. And, for the first time, players will be able to download music and make a change: Available only on Xbox 360, all Apple Corps, MTV Games and Microsoft proceeds from downloads of “All You Need is Love” will benefit Doctors without Borders, courtesy of Microsoft Corporation.

·           “Tony Hawk: RIDE” (Activision). “Tony Hawk: RIDE” redefines the action-sports genre by offering a dynamic hands-free gaming experience featuring a new skateboard controller. The new skateboard peripheral provides an accessible and social gaming experience on Xbox 360 that allows players of all skill levels to battle for skateboard supremacy while posting their stats and challenging gamers worldwide over Xbox LIVE, the largest social gaming network.

About Xbox 360

The powerful Xbox 360 video game and entertainment experience delivers amazing games, the next generation of the premier Xbox LIVE online social network, and unique digital entertainment experiences that revolve around gamers. Xbox 360 now boasts a catalogue of over 500 high-definition games. More information can be found online at http://www.xbox.com/xbox360.

About Xbox LIVE

Xbox LIVE is the largest gaming and entertainment network and delivers more entertainment than any device connected to the television, including movies, TV, music and games. Xbox LIVE is also the only entertainment service to provide instant on 1080p HD streaming video from Zune video’  With an active community of more than 20 million people across 26 countries, Xbox LIVE lets you play the best games, enjoy amazing online content  and connect to friends anytime, from any couch. An Xbox LIVE Gold membership provides you with exclusive benefits and premium access to entertainment from the top studios and services, all in one place. More information about Xbox LIVE can be found online at http://www.xbox.com/en-AU/live/

About Microsoft

Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT”) is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realise their full potential. Xbox 360, the Xbox 360 logo, Xbox LIVE are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.

About Microsoft

Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT”) is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.

Videogame Pieces Together Two of the World’s Most Recognizable Brands to Introduce New Harry Potter Game Experience 

Sydney, Australia. – June 2, 2009 – Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment and TT Games are teaming up with the LEGO Group, to merge two of the world’s most popular brands with the creation of LEGO® Harry Potter: Years 1-4. Based on the first four Harry Potter books and movies that tell the story of Harry’s first four years at Hogwarts™ School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, LEGO® Harry Potter: Years 1-4 offers an engaging mix of magical gameplay and light-hearted humour. LEGO® Harry Potter: Years 1-4 is being developed by TT Games and will be published by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment and is scheduled for release in 2010. 

LEGO® Harry Potter: Years 1-4 will give gamers the chance to experience the magic and adventure of Harry Potter in a new and uniquely LEGO way. Playing as Harry Potter, Ron Weasley™ and Hermione Granger™, as well as other favourite characters, gamers will have the opportunity to attend lessons, cast spells, mix potions, fly on broomsticks and complete tasks to earn house points.  Throughout the game, players will also have the freedom to explore iconic settings from the wizarding world including Hogwarts castle, Diagon Alley™, the Forbidden Forest and the village of Hogsmeade™!

“With LEGO® Harry Potter: Years 1-4 we are creating an open, wide-ranging experience within Hogwarts that is full of fun and LEGO magic,” said Tom Stone, Managing Director, TT Games.  “Harry Potter is one of the most beloved and well-respected characters, and we look forward to bringing gamers a new way of interacting in the universe with the LEGO games’ great humour and exploration.” 

“Harry Potter is one of the world’s most popular and inspirational heroes, and LEGO® Harry Potter: Years 1-4 will appeal to a generation of gamers who grew up immersed in the Harry Potter books and films, and also loved playing with LEGO toys,” said Samantha Ryan, Senior Vice President, Development and Production, Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment. “The game is geared for players to experience a good mix of puzzle solving gameplay with exploration and battle in some of the most beloved Harry Potter environments, plus a few other surprises.”

“We’re excited to announce this gaming experience based on the amazing Harry Potter universe,” said Henrik Taudorf Lorensen, Vice President, New Business Development,  the LEGO Group. “LEGO Harry Potter: Years 1-4 is built around the same values of family-friendly creative game play that are present in other LEGO videogames, while deliverering new elements of exploration and depth that we believe will engage children in imaginative play both virtually and physically.”

About TT Games

TT Games (www.ttgames.com) is the combined publishing and development group behind the hit games LEGO® Star Wars™, LEGO® Batman™: The Videogame, LEGO® Indiana Jones™: The Original Adventures and BIONICLE® Heroes. Incorporating renowned UK developer Traveller’s Tales, TT Games has a distinctive focus on console, handheld, mobile and PC games of the highest quality, aimed at young gamers and their families.

About the LEGO Group

The LEGO Group (www.LEGO.com) is a privately held, family-owned company, based in Billund, Denmark. It was founded in 1932 and today the group is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of play materials for children.  The company is committed to the development of children’s creative and imaginative abilities through its products, which can be purchased in more than 130 countries. Visit www.LEGO.com

About Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment

Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, a division of Warner Bros. Home Entertainment Group, is a premier worldwide publisher, developer, licensor and distributor of entertainment content for the interactive space across all current and future platforms, including console, handheld and PC-based gaming for both internal and third party game titles.

LEGO HARRY POTTER: YEARS 1-4 software © 2010 TT Games Publishing Ltd. LEGO and the LEGO logo are trademarks of the LEGO Group. © 2010 The LEGO Group. Produced by TT Games under license from the LEGO Group All other trademarks and copyrights are the property of their respective owners.  All rights reserved.

HARRY POTTER characters, names and related indicia are trademarks of and © Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.  Harry Potter Publishing Rights © JKR.

The Lord of the Rings: Aragorn’s Quest
Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, South Hall #2047

In The Lord of the Rings: Aragorn’s Quest, preparations are underway in Hobbiton for a great party to welcome Aragorn, King of Gondor, and honour Samwise Gamgee for his service during the War of the Ring.  The children of the town are eager to learn more of this great man and so Samwise, now Mayor, embarks on a tale of the revered warrior, Strider—as Aragorn is known in his Ranger days—and his most valiant battles. Players assume the role of Aragorn and embark on his greatest quests from The Lord of the Rings trilogy as they wield his sword, bow or spear on foot and on horseback through an action-packed gameplay experience.

The Lord of the Rings: Aragorn’s Quest is being developed for Wii™ by Headstrong Games and for Nintendo DS™, PlayStation®2 and PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system by TT Fusion and will be released in spring 2009.

LEGO Rock Band
Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment Booth, South Hall #2047

LEGO® Rock Band® merges two of the most popular videogame franchises to create the unique family-friendly music experience that will allow families, tweens and teens to experience a wild journey to rock stardom where they can “Build a Band and Rock the Universe.”  LEGO Rock Band combines the multiplayer music experience of Rock Band® with the fun, customization and humour of the LEGO videogame franchise and is packed with chart-topping songs and classic favourites suitable for younger audiences.

Scheduled for release Q4 2009 for Xbox 360®, PLAYSTATION®3, Wii™ and Nintendo DS™, the game is being developed by TT Games in partnership with Harmonix and will be published by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment.

Scribblenauts
Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment Booth, South Hall #2047

Scribblenauts is a revolutionary new game for the Nintendo DS™ that will deliver all-age fun with two styles of gameplay and more than 200 levels. Using the Nintendo DS touch-screen, the player helps their character, Maxwell, acquire the starite in each level by solving a series of puzzles. The twist is, in order to solve the puzzle, the player uses the stylus and notepad to write down the word for any object that comes to mind in order to reach the goal. Every object behaves as it would in the real world, and players can combine countless objects together to create completely new behaviours.  Every level has more than one written object to use as a solution, opening up the game to unlimited replay.

Available in spring 2009, the game, created and developed by 5TH Cell, is being published by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment.

 
LEGO Battles
Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment Booth, South Hall #2047

LEGO® Battles offers a new RTS option for young games on the Nintendo DS. With trademark LEGO fun and charm, LEGO® Battles combines three classic LEGO themes: LEGO Space, LEGO Castle, and LEGO Pirates to create a unique extension of the LEGO build-and-play experience that stays true to the customization and humour that are the foundation of LEGO videogames. Through six distinct story lines, players build their own LEGO bases and battle teams as they engage in 90 different levels. Players can then mix and match units to create the ultimate customized LEGO squad. LEGO® Battles is an action-packed adventure for young gamers where swordsmen clash with pirates and ninjas face off against alien spaceships with multiple opportunities for customization and un-lockable treasures. Players can also challenge friends on the battlefield in multiplayer mode through wireless DS multi-card play.

Produced by TT Games, developed by Hellbent Games and published by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment LEGO® Battles is available exclusively on the Nintendo DS™ on June 17, 2009. 

 
Scooby-Doo! First Frights
Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment Booth, South Hall #2047

Scooby-Doo! First Frights is an action-adventure game perfect for the whole family as players take on the role of young Scooby-Doo and teenage versions of the newly formed Mystery, Inc. crew to solve their very first cases. 
 
Fans will be able to explore spooky environments as Scooby, Shaggy or any of the super-cool teen Mystery, Inc. team.  The action-adventure game features co-op play allowing two members of Mystery, Inc. to work together to solve puzzles, combat enemies, and collect clues before unmasking each episode’s mysterious villain – all while gaining prestige as world famous sleuths!  The game is the complement to the upcoming live-action and CGI Warner Bros. DVD release Scooby Doo: The Mystery Begins.
 
Developed by Torus Games and published by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, Scooby-Doo! First Frights will be released on the Wii™, Nintendo DS™ and PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system in spring 2009.

Queen Teen: The Clique
Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment Booth, South Hall #2047

Queen Teen: The Clique, a new videogame based on the best-selling young adult book series by author Lisi Harrison, promises fans new adventures with several of their favourite characters as they work up the social ladder to join the ultimate clique. Queen Teen: The Clique, allows fans to play as a new student in school attempting to make friends and increase their popularity in an effort to join the ultimate clique, the Pretty Committee.

Players take on a variety of challenges and experience tricky situations as they interact with characters from the book as well as the game.  Players can increase their social standing by playing a variety of mini-games to earn money for the latest clothing and accessories.

Developed by Gorilla Systems and published by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment for Nintendo DS™ in spring 2009.

Watchmen: The End is Nigh Part II
Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment Booth, South Hall #2047

Watchmen: The End is Nigh Part 2, is the second of two long-form, episodic action games based on the Watchmen film and takes place over a decade before the film’s main story, delving into the partnership of urban vigilantes Rorschach and Nite Owl before the hero-banning Keene Act.

The game features a split screen co-op multiplayer option in addition to a single-player experience with an A.I. partner. Staying true to the tone of the film on which it’s based, Watchmen: The End is Nigh features stunning graphics in moody settings mixed with brutal combat.

Watchmen: The End is Nigh Part 2, is rated “MA15+” and will be available for download on Xbox LIVE® Arcade for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and for PlayStation® Network and Windows PC, as well as available with Watchmen: The End is Nigh Part 1 playable on the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system and Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft.

 
F.E.A.R.2: Project Origin – New Downloadable Content
Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment Booth, South Hall #2047

In F.E.A.R.2: Project Origin a routine assignment to locate the president of Armacham Technology Corporation turns into a desperate battle for survival after an explosion decimates the city and unleashes Alma Wade. As Alma’s power swells out of control, special forces Sgt. Michael Becket begins to suspect that he’s somehow linked to the crisis and may be the only one capable of averting total disaster. Becket and his squad must battle through an apocalyptic landscape in search of clues for how to destroy her. 

At E3 2009, gamers can continue the mechanized mayhem within the Armoured Front Map Pack. Put your skill to the test in a full-scale training ground for Replica soldiers, or push your way out of a train yard into the vast and open-ended junction station built around a turntable. Elite Powered Armours (EPAs) will battle their way through the ground floor as infantry can choose to either support from below, or scale the heights of the station and engage in long-range combat.

F.E.A.R.2: Project Origin is rated “MA 15+” and is available now for Xbox 360, PLAYSTATION 3 and Games for Windows®.

 
Terminator Salvation
Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment Booth, South Hall #2047

Terminator Salvation the videogame is a third-person action game with concentrated armed combat against all of the Skynet enemies from the Terminator Salvation film, while encountering new enemies specifically designed for the game.

Taking place two years before the events of the Terminator Salvation film from Warner Bros. Pictures and Sony Pictures, players assume the role of John Connor, a soldier in the Resistance. The game takes the battle for humanity to the next level with iconic enemies, cinematic fight sequences and weaponry, drawn directly from the film, as well as a multi-layered cover mechanic.

Available in stores now on Xbox 360®, PLAYSTATION®3 and PC, the game was developed by GRIN, published by Equity Games Production, Evolved Games, licensed by Halcyon Games and distributed by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment.

Ray Romano, John Leguizamo, Queen Latifah and Josh Peck Reprise Their Film Roles in All-New Ice Age Game 

Sydney, Australia – June 2, 2009 – The talent from Twentieth Century Fox’s highly anticipated Ice Age™: Dawn of the  Dinosaurs feature film will reprise their roles in the upcoming video game from Activision Publishing, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATVI).  The game features the voices of Ray Romano, John Leguizamo, Queen Latifah and Josh Peck as members of an unlikely herd of prehistoric pals on a rescue mission across the tundra and beyond as they meet new friends and discover a mysterious world teeming with lush vegetation and fierce dinosaurs.  

“The actors have brought life and familiarity to these admired prehistoric Ice Age characters,” said Rob Kostich, head of marketing for licensed properties, Activision Publishing, Inc.  “Their presence in the game brings authenticity to the experience, immersing players in the Ice Age movie universe.”

For the first time in an Ice Age game, players take on the roles of multiple characters such as big-hearted Manny the mammoth (Romano), the earnest but goofy Sid the sloth (Leguizamo), Diego the saber-toothed tiger, fan favourite Scrat and more.  Gamers also get gameplay tips from the wacky possum duo, Crash and Eddie (Peck), and Ellie the mammoth (Latifah).  Each character features its own strengths and abilities, resulting in a wide variety of gameplay experiences as players work through more than 15 action-packed levels.  Players can also team up with friends and family in eight competitive multiplayer mini-games, another first for the game franchise.

The Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs video game is being developed by Eurocom for the Xbox® 360 video game entertainment system from Microsoft, Games for Windows®, Wii, the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system and the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system. The Nintendo DS version is being developed by Artificial Mind & Movement.

The Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs video game is rated “PG” (Mild Violence) by the Classification Board and will debut at retail outlets nationwide this winter. 

For more information on the Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs video game, please visit www.IceAgeGame.com. 

About Activision Publishing, Inc.

Headquartered in Santa Monica, California, Activision Publishing, Inc. is a leading worldwide developer, publisher and distributor of interactive entertainment and leisure products. 

Activision Publishing maintains operations in the U.S., Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Sweden, Spain, the Netherlands, Australia, Japan and South Korea.  More information about Activision Publishing and its products can be found on the company’s website, www.activision.com.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-looking Statements:  Information in this press release that involves Activision Publishing’s expectations, plans, intentions or strategies regarding the future are forward-looking statements that are not facts and involve a number of risks and uncertainties.  Activision Publishing generally uses words such as “outlook”, “will,” “could,” “would,” “might,” “remains,” “to be,” “plans,” “believes”, “may”, “expects,” “intends,” “anticipates,” “estimate,” future,” “plan,” “positioned,” “potential,” “project,” “remain,” “scheduled,” “set to,” “subject to,” “upcoming” and similar expressions to help identify forward-looking statements.   Factors that could cause Activision Publishing’s actual future results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements set forth in this release include, but are not limited to, sales of Activision Publishing’s titles, shifts in consumer spending trends, the seasonal and cyclical nature of the interactive game market, Activision Publishing’s ability to predict consumer preferences among competing hardware platforms (including next-generation hardware), declines in software pricing, product returns and price protection, product delays, retail acceptance of Activision Publishing’s products, adoption rate and availability of new hardware and related software, industry competition, rapid changes in technology and industry standards, protection of proprietary rights, litigation against Activision Publishing, maintenance of relationships with key personnel, customers, vendors and third-party developers, domestic and international economic, financial and political conditions and policies, foreign exchange rates, integration of recent acquisitions and the identification of suitable future acquisition opportunities, Activision Blizzard’s success in integrating the operations of Activision Publishing and Vivendi Games in a timely manner, or at all, and the combined company’s ability to realize the anticipated benefits and synergies of the transaction to the extent, or in the timeframe, anticipated.  Other such factors include additional risk factors identified in Activision Blizzard’s most recent annual report on Form 10-K and any subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q.  The forward-looking statements in this release are based upon information available to Activision Publishing and Activision Blizzard as of the date of this release, and neither Activision Publishing nor Activision Blizzard assumes any obligation to update any such forward-looking statements.  Forward-looking statements believed to be true when made may ultimately prove to be incorrect.  These statements are not guarantees of the future performance of Activision Publishing or Activision Blizzard and are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, some of which are beyond its control and may cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations.

Australia, 2 June, 2009-

Nintendo announces that from Thursday 25 June – Sunday 5 July, Pokémon™ Platinum players will be able to unlock a new room after they receive the Secret Key! Simply by taking your Nintendo DS® and a copy of Pokémon Platinum version into any Target (excluding Target Country) or Toys R Us store Australia wide, fans can add this extremely hard-to-find item to their game.

Ever wondered what hidden secrets exist in your Pokémon adventure? Well now you can find out with the Secret Key! In the unlocked room, players will discover how to transform the Plasma Pokémon Rotom into five different never-before-seen forms. This makes the Secret Key a must-have for Pokémon Platinum Version fans!

Before you go into Target and Toys R Us, make sure you have obtained the Pokédex in your Pokémon Platinum Version game, and that you don’t have more than two Wonder Cards. If you do have more than two Wonder Cards, you will need to delete one to make room.

The Secret Key is also available at the Nintendo Experience Store at EB Games Swanston Street, Melbourne, and for an extended time at the Nintendo Connection Tour 09 – which is touring Australia and New Zealand, 27 June – 9 August, check www.nintendo.com.au or www.nintendo.co.nz for dates. From 8 June to 16 July, Pokémon fans will also be able to use the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection to obtain the Secret Key. For more information regarding the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection please visit www.nintendowifi.com.au.

Only the Secret Key let’s you change Rotom’s form in Pokémon Platinum Version – so don’t miss out!
For more information visit: http://gamesites.nintendo.com.au/secretkey/event.html

– 1st June, 2009 – Konami Digital Entertainment GmbH in partnership with Atari Australia has announced its popular Metal Gear Solid series will appear on Xbox 360®, with the advent of Metal Gear Solid: Rising for the format – the first Metal Gear Solid game to launch on this next generation console.

The game is being developed by series creators Kojima Productions, and although details are currently under wraps, they have revealed that Metal Gear Solid: Rising stars Raiden – one of the most popular characters within the MGS universe. Raiden made his debut as a playable character in Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty, and appeared as a non-playable cyborg in Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots for PLAYSTATION®3.

“The Metal Gear Solid series is one of the most highly acclaimed video game franchises of all time,” said Martin Schneider, European Marketing Director for Konami Digital Entertainment GmbH. “With the release of Metal Gear Solid: Rising, the Xbox 360 community will now get a chance to enjoy the action and excitement that this popular franchise is famed for.”
 
For more information on Atari’s entire product line up visit www.atari.com.au and log on to the Atari Trade Site for all box shots, demos, trailers and online screenshots.

Colin McRae: DiRT 2 is set to be the hottest festival ticket this year. Gamers can today get their first real taste of the game’s international events as Codemasters® revealed the E3 2009 gameplay teaser video, now available from www.dirt2game.com.