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FINAL FANTASY XIII: 450,000 Copies Sold Day One In U.S.
According to VGChartz, Square Enix’s latest RPG blockbuster has been flying off retail shelves as the reported 450,000 copies sold has been estimated as the day one U.S. numbers. Available for both the PS3 and the Xbox 360, the game has sold extremely well on both platforms for day one sale as VGChartz writes;
Preliminary day one sales are in for Final Fantasy XIII, and with around 290,000 units sold on PS3 and 160,000 units sold on Xbox360 it looks like the title is a success. With recent reports of 5 million units shipped worldwide, that likely breaks down to two million in Japan and around 1.5 million in each of the Americas and Other Regions (Europe, Asia, Africa, Middle East, Australia).
A day one figure of 450,000 should increase by around 40-50% by the end of the week meaning that around 45% of the initial shipment would have sold through in week one, with the rest of the shipment likely to last through to the end of April. The game launches in other regions on Friday and VGChartz expects a similar figure of around 500,000 units to be sold in the first couple of days with the PS3 version leading by at least 2:1.
Pre-Order: Xbox 360 Elite Spring Bundle For Only $299 At Amazon
With games like Battlefield: Bad Company 2 and Final Fantasy XIII currently available for the Xbox 360, now is a great time to answer the call and jump on the new Xbox 360 Elite spring bundle for only $299. The bundle comes packed with 120GB HDD, 1 black wireless controller, a headset, as well as Forza Motorsport 3 and Halo 3: ODST video games. This bundle is a great deal!
Also don’t forget about the upcoming Xbox 360 console exclusive METRO 2033, a first person action-horror title which will be available March 16th.
This bundle has been available since March 9th at Amazon, hurry up!
Microsoft: Want Bluray For 360? “Go Spend $150 On One”
Speaking with The Game Guys from News10, Microsoft’s director of global platform marketing for Xbox Albert Penello shed some light on the growing concern of bringing blu-ray to the 360;
“Go spend $150 on one.”
Referring to a stand-alone blu-ray player, it seems quite apparent we will not be seeing any add-on for the Xbox 360 in the near. With the HD-DVD add-on which fizzled out for the Xbox 360 due to the extinction of the HD-DVD format, cost has become a major factor for Microsoft. To no one’s surprise, Microsoft has thoroughly embraced digital distribution as a way to efficiently and effectively offers cutting edge entertainment to their end users.
Nevertheless, it is going to be interesting to see what Microsoft does to extend their platform format beyond dvd for their next console.
DYNASTY WARRIORS: Strikeforce DLC Given Away For Free
TECMO KOEI EUROPE heralds the arrival of all new Dynasty Warriors: Strikeforce downloadable content as a thank you to fans over the forthcoming Easter period.
One piece of content will be given away on Xbox 360 each week until the middle of April as thanks to the thousands of people who have bought Dynasty Warriors: Strikeforce. Featuring three new missions and a new challenge in every pack, the Easter gift DLC will give fans of the series hours more game time to enjoy while feasting on their chocolate eggs!
“Dynasty Warriors: Strikeforce has been a tremendous success for us at Tecmo Koei Europe, so we wanted to give something back to the fans this Easter”, said Will Curley, VP Sales & Marketing. “From the Battle of Tong Gate, to the epic Defense of Yi, we want players to engage with Dynasty Warriors: Strikeforce over the Easter break, and free weekly content is a great way of saying thank you.’
Content for the Xbox 360 will be released on the following days;
Pack 1 – 4th March
Pack 2 – 18th March
Pack 3 – 1st April
Pack 4 – 15th April
METRO 2033 Goes Gold
THQ Inc. today announced Metro 2033, the atmospheric first person shooter set in a post-apocalyptic Moscow, has passed the gold master stage of development and entered manufacturing. Powered by brand new technology – the formidable 4A Engine – Metro 2033 will set a new graphical benchmark on both Xbox 360 and PC when it hits retail outlets on March 16th in the US and Germany, March 18th in Australia and March 19th in the rest of the world.
“We’re excited to be bringing such a truly original experience to market,” said Richard Williams, Vice President of Global Brand Management, THQ. “Metro 2033 couples a deep and engaging story with incredibly atmospheric first person shooter gameplay, and the 4A Engine provides cutting edge technology behind the most impressive visuals seen on either PC or console to date.”
Metro 2033 has already been acclaimed for its graphical prowess on both Xbox 360 and PC, with the latter benefiting from advanced DX11 features and NVIDIA PhysX implementation. In addition, gamers can enjoy Metro 2033 in 3D, powered by NVIDIA 3D Vision.
WAY OF THE SAMURAI 3 Confirmed For March 12th Release
Leading video games publisher Rising Star Games has today announced that Gamebridge’s Way of the Samurai 3, an open world action RPG, will arrive on 12th March for Microsoft’s Xbox 360.
Developed by Acquire, Way of the Samurai 3 shows gamers the true consequence of their actions, with each decision further influencing the way the game pans out. Playing as a samurai during the tumultuous time of the Sengoku era, gamers can join one of two warring factions, side with the neutral villagers, or ignore all and create their own path.
In addition to familiar systems new ones add depth to gameplay including, Sudden Battle that allows players to draw swords, Original Blade Creation where players can choose from over 200 different parts and materials to create a wholly original sword, and Companion that allows players to select a woman to set up home with.
“We’re delighted to announce the release of Gamebridge’s Way of the Samurai 3,” says Martin Defries, managing director, Rising Star Games. “The ultimate choose your own adventure game, no game has used the butterfly effect to such extremes as in this one.”
Way of the Samurai 3 launches on 12th March for Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 with two limited edition digital bonus items; a strategy guide, detailing an array of hints and tips, and a stunning artbook.
HELLION: Mystery Of The Inquisition “An Extraordinary First Person Action Game”
Today Flying Fish Works officially presents new screenshots to their upcoming product “Hellion: Mystery of the Inquisition”. Presenting new material taken from the actual version the team is focusing on diverse locations and their in-depth graphics.
“Currently we are preparing a new hellish video to underline our graphical strengthens. This video will highlight various locations and will be presented to the community later this month” Maciej Kowalski, Producer at Flying Fish Works commentates on the press release. “Hellion: Mystery of the inquisition” is in development for Xbox 360, PS3 and PC.
“Hellion: Mystery of the inquisition” is an extraordinary First-Person-Action-Game set in the 13th century. As an armed man of the newborn Inquisition, the player will battle heretics, execute exorcisms, face demons and unintentionally become part of a political and religious intrigue. It is an epic journey through different medieval cultures full of real-life characters, wild animals, rough warriors, powerful Templar knights, deadly assassins and, ultimately, horrifying demons.
Updates Images:
BATMAN: Arkham Asylum “Game Of The Year” Edition Playable In 3D
Square Enix London Studios today announced a Game of the Year Edition for the critically acclaimed Batman: Arkham Asylum, licensed by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment on behalf of DC Comics. The new edition will come complete with six extra challenge maps on disc and features an innovative new technology which offers a play-in-3D option compatible with all standard and high definition TV sets.
Batman: Arkham Asylum Game of the Year Edition adds a new dimension to the multi award-winning gameplay experience, with support for TriOviz 3D on both the Xbox 360 and Playstation 3. TriOviz 3D is a patented 3D process which adds depth to the game, visible to players wearing the included 3D glasses. By leveraging the depth-of-field while maintaining the original gameplay and colour integrity, TriOviz 3D creates a far more immersive gaming experience, allowing console players to dive deeper into the gothic world of Arkham Asylum.
The Batman: Arkham Asylum Game of the Year Edition will be available March 26th, 2010, for the Xbox 360, Playstation 3 and Games For Windows LIVE.
BLUR Launching May 25 In The U.S. & May 28 In Europe
Blur, the visually stunning new racer from Bizarre Creations has been announced with a release date of May 25th in the U.S. and May 28th in Europe.
“We did our homework and saw a huge opportunity to move beyond traditional racers and create a game completely focused on making racing ‘fun’ again,” said Martyn Chudley, creative director, Bizarre Creations. “Blur delivers a new style of racing experience for all gamers, regardless of their experience, skill or genre preferences. Everything the player does, both in their cars and with their cars, is a dramatic adrenaline rush; it’s a real blast!”
The Blur multiplayer beta is scheduled to launch next week exclusively on Xbox 360.
New Games On Demand: FALLOUT 3 & Street Fighter IV
The critically acclaimed Bethesda Studio open-world sandbox title FALLOUT 3 and the Capcom classic reborn Street Fighter IV have now joined the ranks of the beloved Xbox 360 Games On Demand family.
For the few living on planet earth who never played FALLOUT 3, this is a must buy title that should not be overlooked. FALLOUT 3 includes an expansive world, unique combat, shockingly realistic visuals, tons of player choice, and an incredible cast of dynamic characters. Every minute is a fight for survival against the terrors of the outside world – radiation, Super Mutants, and hostile mutated creatures. Simply put, the game is amazing.
Now on the fighter front, when Street Fighter IV hit the scene early 2009 everyone went crazy as their old-school classic was re-introduced with amazing visuals and super-sick combos. Capcom’s world renowned hit fighting series returns after a 10 year hiatus! Yeah, it’s been that long. Step into the ring with familiar characters like Ryu and Chun-Li or try your hand at brand new, never before seen fighters. Jump straight into online matches directly from Arcade Mode with an all new online system that mimics the feel of the arcade by allowing other players to challenge you in real time. Online battles will definitely keep you up so late that you will be calling in sick to your job, it’s that serious!
Head over to your Games On Demand options bar and download these games now, you will not regret it.
HALO REACH: All-New Multiplayer Gameplay Trailer
Can’t wait to jump into the Halo: Reach multiplayer beta on May 3? You’re in luck, because a thrilling first look video of Halo: Reach multiplayer action is now available. The “March Multiplayer Madness” video was captured from the game’s alpha build.
Rest assured that more info is coming down the line as the launch of the public multiplayer beta nears. As a reminder, players will be able to access the beta, which launches in just two months, through Halo 3: ODST. Developed by acclaimed studio Bungie, Halo: Reach is being published by Microsoft and launches in autumn 2010 exclusively on Xbox 360.
SPLINTER CELL: Conviction Xbox 360 Bundle Announced
Today Microsoft has announced the Xbox 360 Splinter Cell Conviction Special Edition Bundle. This bundle will be available in North America, Europe, Australia and New Zealand for US $399 in early April. The limited edition bundle contains a standard edition copy of Splinter Cell Conviction, a 250 GB hard drive and 2 Wireless Controllers.
FORZA MOTORSPORT 3 Gets VIP Content On Xbox LIVE
Today Microsoft and Turn 10 announced the widespread availability of four “Forza Motorsport 3” Game Add-ons, previously available only to those who purchased Limited Collector’s Edition copies of the game. Mobilizing millions of “Forza Motorsport 3” fans, Turn 10 is calling on all racers, tuners and artists to assist in the global relief effort for the victims of the earthquake in Haiti. For every purchase of the “VIP Membership Car Pack” during the month of March, Turn 10 pledges to donate $10 to Save the Children up to $100,000. So now you can enjoy more of the “Forza Motorsport 3” content you’ve been asking for, while also donating to an important cause.
Now available on Xbox LIVE Marketplace for 800 Microsoft points, the “VIP Membership Car Pack” gives you exclusive access and visibility in the “Forza Motorsport” community. You’ll receive special recognition on scoreboards, in multiplayer lobbies, on ForzaMotorsport.net, in the “Forza Motorsport 3” Storefront, and it places your VIP auctions at the top of the “Forza Motorsport 3” Auction House. VIP membership also includes these five must-have VIP Cars: 2008 Aston Martin DBS, 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, 2007 Ferrari F430 Scuderia, 2007 Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera, and 2007 Porsche 911 GT3 RS (997). (IMPORTANT NOTE: VIP Membership is also available for FREE with an Xbox LIVE token included in new Limited Collector’s Edition copies of “Forza Motorsport 3.”)
Additionally, starting today on Xbox LIVE Marketplace, you’ll find other great “Forza Motorsport 3” track and car packs, previously only available to those who purchased a copy of Limited Collector’s Edition of the game.
BLACKLIGHT: TANGO DOWN Coming To XBLA
Ignition Entertainment, a UTV Media Communication Company, and Zombie Studios are developing Blacklight: Tango Down, a near-future first person shooter that will offer AAA-quality military shooter action in a downloadable package. Blacklight: Tango Down will be available Summer 2010 through Xbox LIVE Arcade for the Xbox 360, PlayStation Network for PS3 and PC.
“We’re excited to be working on a gripping new franchise that will deliver the intense action, thoughtful tactics and in-depth strategies of today’s best multiplayer shooters immersed in an all new universe that gamers will really sink their teeth into,” said Ajay Chadha, Head of Worldwide Publishing, Ignition Entertainment. “Blacklight: Tango Down is set to change the way gamers view the possibilities of downloadable content because it will offer shooter fans the top quality, deep content and exciting experience that they are used to finding in a retail product but in a downloadable package.”
“We could not ask for a better partner than Ignition,” said Mark Long, of Zombie. “Their digital distribution focus is visionary. It matches the aspirations we have for this franchise which already include a feature film and comic.”
Blacklight: Tango Down is a fast-paced first person shooter based in a new fictional universe called Blacklight. Utilizing the cutting-edge graphical power of Unreal Engine 3, Blacklight: Tango Down’s near-future setting is brought to life with disturbingly detailed and old-world architecture dripping with modern sci-fi lighting and brightly lit advertisements, an effect that causes each environment to appear both futuristically alien as well as hauntingly familiar.
Blacklight: Tango Down will deliver some of the most exciting multiplayer gameplay available in the shooter category and features numerous gameplay styles and functionality. These modes include traditional formats like Deathmatch, Team Deathmatch & Control Point, with other modes being .announced in the build up to launch.
Blacklight: Tango Down will set itself apart from other games by virtue of its incredibly deep customization features. Players will be able to alter and upgrade not only their character through experience gained on the battlefield, but also their weapons. Weapon customizations will unlock as the player gains skill and experience points and will include more basic add-ons like sniper scopes as well as more complex enhancements, such as improved accuracy.
JUST CAUSE 2 Demo Coming March 4th
Square Enix London Studios, a part of Square Enix Europe, today announced an incredible, action-packed demo for the hotly anticipated free-roaming action game Just Cause 2 will release on March 4th, 2010.
Available for Xbox 360, PS3 and PC the Just Cause 2 demo will feature a massive 35 square miles of the Lautan Lama Desert, a vast expanse of stunning, sun-scorched scenery taking up just one of the many islands in the 400 square miles of the Panau archipelago. Packed with towns, villages, military installations, mountain ranges, missions and more, the demo will feature an astonishing amount of activities for the player… and opportunities for adrenaline-fuelled chaos are limitless.
Hunt down and assassinate one of the game’s 50 military colonels; devastate military bases, bio fuel chambers, government infrastructure and more; hijack tuk tuks, military 4×4s, armoured vehicles, mopeds, helicopter gunships, light aircraft, mini vans and numerous other military and civilian vehicles; freefall from desert outcrops or from burning planes at 20,000 feet; and unlock one full, multi-stage mission, traversing the mountains to a heavily fortified government radar station and ending in an unforgettable desert car chase.
“The Just Cause 2 demo is simply massive and with so much to do, the replay value is enormous,” said Lee Singleton, General Manager of Square Enix London Studios. “It’s easily one of the biggest freeroaming demos of all time and for fans of openworld games, it’s unmissable.”
