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Review: Adobe Creative Suite 3 Production Premium
Posted by Scott R. Garrigus

In this review, I took a look at Adobe Creative Suite 3 Production Premium (also available in a Standard version), which is for users needing applications for professional rich media, video, animation, DVD, Blu-ray, and other digital content creation. Included in this Suite are the following: After Effects CS3, Premiere Pro CS3, Photoshop CS3 Extended, Flash CS3 Professional, Illustrator CS3, Encore CS3, Soundbooth CS3, OnLocation CS3, and Ultra CS3. Support applications include: Adobe Bridge CS3, Adobe Dynamic Link, Adobe Device Central CS3, and Adobe Acrobat Connect. You also get Adobe Video Workshop with over 13 hours of training.

What brings this Suite together is the integration between all of the applications via what Adobe calls Dynamic Link. All of the new features are wonderful, but being able to edit audio from within Premiere by quickly switching to Soundbooth and back or being able to easily edit imported Photoshop files from within After Effects creates a very optimal workflow. In my opinion, that integration is what makes Adobe Creative Suite 3 Production Premium a joy to work with and currently the most powerful multimedia suite on the planet.

Read the full review: Adobe Creative Suite 3 Production Premium in Reviews.
Review: Hot Shots Tennis
Posted by Scott R. Garrigus

I remember when I was a kid and our town put in some community tennis courts. My Mom and Dad really got into the game—complete with cool tennis gear and outfits. On the weekends we would go as a family to play and we all got pretty good at it (as amateurs, of course). But I was never really into sports all that much—I prefer a regular exercise regimen. As far as sports-related video games though, that's another story. I like both sports simulations as well as sports arcade games, and since I had enjoyed Hot Shots Golf so much, I was excited to get my hands on Hot Shots Tennis from SCEA.

As the name implies, Hot Shots Tennis is designed to deliver the same cool, off-beat gameplay as the very popular Hot Shots Golf series, but this time for the game of tennis. Hot Shots Tennis provides 14 playable characters (both guys and gals), each with their own personality and playing skills. You can play in 11 different court settings including beaches, parks, ancient ruins, and more. Plus, even though a tennis court is a tennis court in most locations, the game provides three types of court surfaces (Hard, Grass, and Clay) that affect the ball's bounce height and speed in different ways.

Read the full review: Hot Shots Tennis in Reviews.
Sony, Codemasters, Bethesda Softworks, 2K Games, EA Sports, and Midway
Posted by Scott R. Garrigus

And so it begins... even though it's only mid-September, the gaming manufacturers are already gearing up for the holiday season. I expect we'll continue to see new games for the Xbox 360, but the real anticipation will be the surge of PS3 titles that gamers are expecting. Well, I have to say that we are off to a great start with the latest barrage of releases...

Sony has come out with two high-powered titles for the PS3: Heavenly Sword and Lair. With these titles we are finally getting to see what the PS3 can really do. Heavenly Sword is an emotional roller coaster that invites players to experience a dramatic tale, as Nariko, a fiery red-haired heroine, embarks on a quest for vengeance against an invading King and his army. While Lair engages players to fight alongside a voracious dragon and to save a world from the brink of extinction by scorching, clawing and smashing through thousands of ravenous enemies and their war-trained beasts.

Codemasters is sending DiRT to the retail shelves again, but this time it's for the PS3. Featuring a massive range of off-road racing experiences on gravel, mud and dirt, players will get their fix of throwing 45 vehicles, including 2WD, 4WD, Classic and RWD cars, through the most challenging and treacherous stages, tracks and circuits all over the world.

Bethesda Softworks has shipped The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Game of the Year Edition for Xbox 360 and Windows Now. They will also be shipping a PS3 version in October. And speaking of award-winning games, 2K Games' BioShock for the Xbox 360 has received and all-time highest ranking on Metacritic.

Hockey fans will be happy to hear that they have two different choices with EA Sports NHL 08 and 2K Sports NHL 2K8. And John Woo fans will enjoy his new action game from Midway -- Stranglehold.

For more information about all these announcements in Gaming News:
* Heavenly Sword Delivers the Perfect Blend of Cinema and Intense Action on PLAYSTATION 3
* Lair Delivers Next-Generation Action and Epic Battles on PLAYSTATION 3 System
* Codemasters DiRT Hits Retail Stores Nationwide for the PlayStation 3 System
* Bethesda Softworks Announces The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Game of the Year Edition for Xbox 360 and Windows Now Shipping
* 2K Games BioShock Receives All-Time Highest Xbox 360 Ranking on Metacritic
* EA Sports NHL 08 Ships To Retailers
* 2K Sports NHL 2K8 Ships to Retailers in North America
* Midway Brings Action Back With Release of Stranglehold
iRobot, Nero, Symantec, Electric Rain, O'Reilly, Genius, and Plustek
Posted by Scott R. Garrigus

There have been a lot of great, new technology announcements lately and we wanted to bring you some of the best...

iRobot has unveiled its latest line of Roomba cleaning robots. If you haven't checked these out in the past, you're missing something very cool. And these latest robots are even smarter.

Nero and Symantec have announced 2008 versions of their flagship products. Nero 8 extends content beyond the PC, allowing users to easily create and edit, convert and share, rip and burn, backup and protect digital media. Norton Internet Security 2008 provides new Browser Defender and Identity Safe features.

Electric Rain has released version 5 of its Swift 3D vector graphics software. New capabilities include mesh morphing animations, user-controlled vector file optimization and an overhauled user interface to an already robust feature set.

O'Reilly has a couple of new books out that will teach how to design efficient navigation for your web sites, as well as learn how to use the new Flash CS3 Professional software from Adobe.

There's also a new digital photo frame from Genius and an ultra compact portable scanner from Plustek.

For more information about all these announcements in Tech News:
* iRobot Unveils All-New Roomba Vacuum Cleaning Robots
* Nero Announces the Upcoming Worldwide Release of Nero 8
* Symantec Launches Norton Internet Security 2008, Norton Antivirus 2008
* Electric Rain Releases Swift 3D Version 5.0 for Windows
* Designing Web Navigation -- New from O'Reilly
* Dynamic Learning: Flash CS3 Professional -- New from O'Reilly
* Bring Photos To Life With The New Digital Frame From Genius
* Plustek Introduces Ultra-Compact Portable Scanner
Nyko PS3 HD-Link and Intercooler Reviews
Posted by Scott R. Garrigus

Nyko is famous for its line of gaming accessories and now they are moving in full force with support for the Sony PlayStation 3. Here at NewTechReview, we'll be covering these new products as they hit the market. As such, we have a couple of reviews for you that cover the new HD-Link and Intercooler products. Here are excerpts and links to the full text:

Nyko PS3 HD-Link Review
The HD-Link is a HD Component Audio/Video Cable of which one end attaches to the PS3 AV MULTI OUT connector. The other end of the cable provides five separate connections — Y, Pb, and Pr component cables for video and left/right cable for stereo audio. The HD-Link supports 480p, 720p, 1080i and 1080p resolutions, which includes widescreen video. The construction of the cable is very high quality including shielding for interference-free signals as well as gold plated connectors to fight oxidation and corrosion. For more information: Nyko HD-Link Component Audio/Video Cable for PS3 (Full Review).

Nyko PS3 Intercooler Review
The PS3 Intercooler is a fan-based, external cooling product designed to work in conjunction with the PS3's internal system to provide an even lower operating temperature. The Intercooler comes as a two-piece unit — one piece for the back of the PS3 and one piece for the right side (when looking at the PS3 in the horizontal position). The back piece provides 2 medium fans and 2 small fans, and the side piece provides one large fan (for a total of 5 fans). For more information: Nyko Intercooler Cooling Device for PS3 (Full Review).
EDGE Tech DiskGO Migo Drives

EDGE Tech Corp, a leading supplier of DRAM and flash memory upgrades, portable computing products, storage devices, and other experience-enhancing technology solutions, announced the release of its DiskGO™ Smart USB Flash Drive with Migo™ and the DiskGO™ Smart 2.5" Ultra Portable Hard Drive with Migo™.

The DiskGO Smart USB Flash Drive with Migo and the DiskGO Smart 2.5" Ultra Portable Hard Drive with Migo provide users the freedom to carry both critical data and numerous personal computer settings with them. The easy-to-use Migo software guides users through the steps necessary to synch a computer’s main drive to one of these portable drives, allowing access to their personal settings on another PC. Users can take documents, Outlook, and Thunderbird emails and preferences, Internet Explorer or Firefox favorites and settings, and desktop background and shortcuts. For more information: EDGE Tech DiskGO Migo Drives.

Plus, more Tech News:
* Xtreme Charge Adds New Life Cycles to 12-Volt Batteries
* Sony Rolls Out Three Multi-Format DVD/CD Rewritable Drives for the Holidays
* Version 6 Proves DAZ 3D Carrara Will Be in Every 3D Artist’s Suite of Tools for Years to Come
* e frontier Introduces Poser Pro
* New and Enhanced Quicken 2008 Offerings Designed to Help People Take Control of Their Finances
* JavaScript & DHTML Cookbook, 2nd Edition -- New from O'Reilly
* Caligari Announces Thursday Night Live!
Madden NFL 08

Electronic Arts today announced that Madden NFL 08, the newest iteration of the best-selling EA SPORTS™ football franchise with the exclusive videogame license of the NFL and PLAYERS INC, is now available in stores nationwide. Awarded the 2007 Game Critics “Best Sports Game” award at last month’s E3 Media and Business Summit, Madden NFL 08 features a unique combination of innovative gameplay and authentic NFL football simulation.

Madden NFL 08 features a new Read and React system that allows gamers to quickly identify the strongest players on the field, and to make game-altering adjustments to further affect each and every play. New player skill icons identify on-field strengths and weaknesses, providing an immediate read on what an opponent is doing. This new icon system complements a deeper gameplay experience that maximizes the skill of the individual NFL superstars, separating them from the role players, and takes NFL football strategy to a new level. For more information: Madden NFL 08.

Plus, more Entertainment News:
* Her Interactive Ships Nancy Drew: Curse of Blackmoor Manor TV DVD Game
* Comedy Central Home Entertainment Releases South Park: The Complete Tenth Season DVD to Hit Stores on Tuesday, August 21
* Warner Home Video Director’s Series: Stanley Kubrick Collection
* The Office: Season 3 Available on DVD September 4, 2007
* Wild Hogs Rolling to DVD and Blu-ray Disc August 14th
* Disney’s Pirates Of The Caribbean: At World’s End Coming to DVD & Blu-Ray December 4
Samsung Ultra-Thin i85 Digital Camera

Samsung Camera has launched the eight mega pixel i85. Measuring 3.74”x2.42”x0.8”, the i85 is roughly the size of a credit card and is sure to turn heads with a brushed-silver aluminum body. An impressive, 3.0” high-resolution LCD screen dominates the back of the camera and enhances the imaging experience for end users, giving them a more detailed display to both compose their shots, review their images and enjoy video clips or movies. Shooters will also be amazed at the quality of the lens and optical zoom that the i85 puts at their fingertips. Going above and beyond what’s expected of an ultra-thin DSC, the i85 manages to pack in a non-protruding 5x optical zoom (35mm film equivalent: 36~180mm) NV lens boasting a maximum shutter speed of 1/2,000 sec and a super macro focus of 1cm. For more information: Samsung Ultra-Thin i85 Digital Camera.

Plus, more Tech News:
* Animation Pure and Simple with Toon Boom Digital Pro
* Genius PenSketch 9X12 Now Available For Artists And Graphic Designers
* Genius’ MaxFire Pandora Gamepad For Laptops Packs Up Easily And Is Made For People On-The-Go
* Genius MaxFire Grandias 12V Gamepad Gives Maximum Control
* Genius Launches BT-03A THE World’s Smallest Bluetooth Headset
* Nuance Unveils OmniPage Professional 16
* Ion Audio Introduces Two New USB Turntables
* Symantec Arms Consumers Against PC Hijackers with Norton AntiBot
EA NASCAR 08 Hits the Streets

Electronic Arts revs up its engine and hits the race track as NASCAR 08® by EA SPORTS™ has shipped and is now available at retail stores. Gamers can drive their way to the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series championship in the most realistic NASCAR racing game yet and race the real Car of Tomorrow on all 22 NASCAR sanctioned tracks. With next generation enhanced visuals and advanced car tuning, gamers will truly feel like a NASCAR driver. Featuring an all-new career mode and the ability to challenge up to 11 other drivers in live races, players can experience tomorrow’s racing today in NASCAR 08. For more information: EA NASCAR 08 Hits the Streets.



Roving Mars Lands on DVD/Blu-ray

Experience Mars like never before when the visually stunning IMAX documentary, ROVING MARS, sets down on DVD and Blu-ray Disc July 31st from Walt Disney Home Entertainment. Perfect for science and space enthusiasts, plus anyone looking for an entirely unique experience, ROVING MARS is accompanied by bonus features on a galactic scale, including “Mars and Beyond”. For more information: Roving Mars Lands on DVD/Blu-ray.




Plus, more Entertainment News:
* EA Announces The Sims 2 Bon Voyage
* Ubisoft and NBC Universal Announce Partnership to Turn Gamers into Heroes
* Return to House on Haunted Hill Discover True Evil on DVD October 16, 2007
* Blade Runner: The Final Cut Debuts on DVD December 18
* Troy Director’s Cut from Warner Home Video September 18
* Core Gamer adds to its family of firsts with Nintendo Wii Blaster
* Dragon's Lair Unveiled as First 1080p Game for HD DVD Players
* FUNimation Entertainment Announces November Release of Dragon Ball Z Blu-ray
human touch HT-1470 Massage Pad

human touch™, the number-one distributor of massage chairs in the United States, has invented and produced the world’s thinnest kneading and rolling massage robot for use in its new HT-1470 back massage pad. The portable, heated back pad incorporates the most advanced patented robotic massage system ever created and provides 25-percent greater back-area coverage than competing massage pads.

Weighing only 11 pounds, the versatile HT-1470 easily transforms virtually any home or office chair or sofa into a relaxing massage lounger. Once the built-in heating system prepares muscles for an optimal massage, the exclusive bi-level massage nodes generate fingertip and thumb pressure in kneading and rolling motions designed to replicate expert massage therapist techniques. Users personalize their experience with push-button simplicity that lets them turn heat on or off, select a full back massage and target coverage to the middle and lower back. For more information: human touch HT-1470 Massage Pad.

Plus, more Tech News:
* JVC Announces New 3CCD High Definition Hard Disk Drive Camcorder
* SanDisk Extreme Ducati Edition CF and SD Plus Cards Announced
* Kanguru Eco Drives - New Line Of Power Saving External Hard Drives
* Kingston Technology 8GB DataTraveler II Plus Now Available
* Belkin’s New USB Hubs Make it More Convenient to Add USB Ports to Your PC or Laptop
* Adobe Introduces Captivate 3
* ActionScript 3.0 Design Patterns - New from O'Reilly
Adobe Creative Suite 3 Design Premium (Review)

Since their acquisition of Macromedia, Adobe has been hard at work trying to integrate the newly obtained applications with their existing line of products. All that hard work has paid off with the release of Creative Suite 3. Adobe’s CS3 is comprised of no less than six different suites of products, which are geared toward the various graphics and multimedia industries. In this review, I took a look at the Adobe Creative Suite 3 Design Premium (also available in a Standard version), which is for users needing applications for professional page layout, image editing, illustration, and more. Included in this Suite are the following: InDesign CS3, Photoshop CS3 Extended, Illustrator CS3, Flash CS3 Professional, Dreamweaver CS3, and Acrobat 8 Professional. Support applications include: Adobe Bridge CS3, Adobe Version Cue CS3, Adobe Device Central CS3, Adobe Stock Photos, and Adobe Connect. You also get Adobe Video Workshop with over 10 hours of training. For more information: Adobe Creative Suite 3 Design Premium (Review).



Adobe Creative Suite 3 Web Premium (Review)

In this review, I took a look at the Adobe Creative Suite 3 Web Premium (also available in a Standard version), which is for users needing applications for professional web design, web application development, user interface design, presentations, mobile device content, and other digital content creation. Included in this Suite are the following: Dreamweaver CS3, Flash CS3 Professionl, Photoshop CS3 Extended, Illustrator CS3, Fireworks CS3, Acrobat 8 Professional, and Contribute CS3. Support applications include: Adobe Bridge CS3, Adobe Version Cue CS3, Adobe Device Central CS3, Adobe Stock Photos, and Adobe Connect. You also get Adobe Video Workshop with over 10 hours of training. For more information: Adobe Creative Suite 3 Web Premium (Review).
2K Sports All-Pro Football 2K8

2K Sports, the sports publishing label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc., announced that All-Pro Football 2K8, the highly-anticipated football title from the makers of the celebrated 2K football series, is now available in stores across North America for the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system. As a next generation title, All-Pro Football 2K8 features crisp visuals and amazing detail to all graphic elements. From the reflective helmets, to the high-quality mesh textures of the uniforms, to the hyper-realistic weather effects of rain and snow, All-Pro Football 2K8 also presents extraordinary stadiums designed with great flair. Stadiums have unique themes that will be demonstrated with over-the-top celebrations when touchdowns are scored. Like all 2K Sports games, All-Pro Football 2K8 features gorgeous animations including Signature Style animations of well-known legends including Walter Payton’s scissor kick, Johnny Unitas’s throwing style, and the infamous Ickey Woods Shuffle. For more information: 2K Sports All-Pro Football 2K8.



Sony Hot Shots Tennis

Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. announced the release of Hot Shots Tennis, available exclusively throughout North America for the PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system. Developed by Clap Hanz, the team behind the highly acclaimed Hot Shots Golf(R) franchise, Hot Shots Tennis is a free-wheeling sports action game, designed to provide endless fun for both gaming novices and veteran players alike. Available at $29.99 MSRP, Hot Shots Tennis provides huge entertainment value, offering brisk gameplay, brilliant graphics, and multiplayer action that fans of the series have grown to love. Casual gamers will enjoy the game's pick up and play design, zany characters, and multiple game modes. More seasoned players will uncover a deep feature set that brings a variety of strokes and challenge modes to master. For more information: Sony Hot Shots Tennis.
Fabrik SimpleTech SimpleDrive

Since its introduction, the SimpleTech SimpleDrive family of portable and desktop storage solutions has vaulted the company to the No. 3 supplier of external storage products in North America, according to NPD. Like the rest of the award-winning desktop and portable family, the SimpleDrive portable solution is designed by Pininfarina, the Italian design house that's styled Ferraris and other cutting-edge products and high-end automobiles since 1952. Intended to meet the increasing appetite of digital content enthusiasts, the latest SimpleDrive portable drive boasts 250GB of space, or enough room to carry more than 270 hours of standard-definition (SD) video, 19 hours of high-definition (HD) video, 63,000 songs, or 180,000 photos. For more information: Fabrik SimpleTech SimpleDrive.

Plus, more Tech News:
* Wirelessly Print, Back up Files, or Listen to Music with Belkin’s New Wireless USB Hub
* New Laptop Desk Futura Combines Fashion and Function
* O'Reilly Releases Dynamic Learning: Photoshop CS3
* O'Reilly Releases Windows Vista Administration: The Definitive Guide
* Corel Painter X Update and New Learning Resources Now Available
Pirates of the Caribbean - The Curse of the Black Pearl (Review)

Yo ho! Yo ho! A pirate’s life for me! Captain Jack Sparrow is back and this time he’s on Blu-ray. Of course, I’m speaking of the Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl release on Blu-ray (a two-disc set). I’d be very surprised if you haven’t already seen this movie (either in the theatre or on DVD), but just in case… there are three main storylines. Captain Jack Sparrow is on a mission to retrieve his beloved ship, the Black Pearl, which was taken from him by his first mate (Captain Barbossa) and a mutinous crew. Barbossa and the crew took the ship so that they could find and steal an ancient treasure. Ah, but the treasure is cursed and they are now on a mission to retrieve all the pieces of gold they squandered so that they can break the curse. In the course of doing so, they have captured Ms. Elizabeth Swan and taken her with them. Will Turner (a blacksmith who loves Ms. Swan) teams up with Captain Jack to find the Black Pearl and rescue the girl. That about sums it up without giving too much of the story away. For more information: Pirates of the Caribbean - The Curse of the Black Pearl (Review).



Pirates of the Caribbean - Dead Man's Chest (Review)

Hot on the heels of the Pirates of the Caribbean - The Curse of the Black Pearl Blu-ray release comes Pirates of the Caribbean – Dead Man’s Chest. In this second installment of the Pirates trilogy, the lives of Will Turner and Elizabeth Swan are once again turned upside down by the infamous Captain Jack Sparrow. As the movie progresses we find out that Jack made a deal to become Captain of the Black Pearl, and now his is debt is due… he owes his soul to Davy Jones. The only way Jack can escape his fate is to find the legendary Dead Man’s Chest, which is fabled to hold the still beating heart of Davy Jones. Unfortunately for Jack, the East Indian Trading Company is also after the chest. After being condemned to death by the Company, Will sets out to find Jack only to be captured by Jones. Elizabeth (also condemned by the Company) escapes to save Will. As with the first installment, the Pirates of the Caribbean – Dead Man’s Chest is an exciting plot with multiple storylines that will keep you entertained till the end. For more information: Pirates of the Caribbean - Dead Man's Chest (Review).



Plus, Entertainment News:
* Remember The Titans on Blu-ray Disc this Fall
* Scary Movie and Badder Santa on Blu-ray Disc This Fall
Tecmo Ninja Gaiden Sigma

Tecmo® proudly announced that the definitive action adventure ninja game, Ninja Gaiden® Sigma, is attacking its way onto store shelves everywhere, July 3rd, only on the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system! Featuring more ninja content than ever, Sigma offers new weapons and combos, new enemies and bosses, new stages and missions, and for the first time ever Rachel the Fiend Hunter as a playable character all in the beautifully crisp 1080p resolution. This new incarnation in the Ninja Gaiden series will reawaken your desire to grab a katana and become a Master Ninja.
For more information: Tecmo Ninja Gaiden Sigma.
Essential ActionScript 3.0

More than two years in the making, ActionScript 3.0--perhaps the most substantial upgrade to Flash's programming language ever--is here. And O'Reilly's newest offering, Essential ActionScript 3.0 (O'Reilly, $54.99 US), stands ready to guide developers at every level through this radically overhauled update. For more information: Essential ActionScript 3.0.





Dreamweaver CS3: The Missing Manual

This one-stop Dreamweaver CS3 resource aims to boost the skills and knowledge of designers at every level, from novices to power users. MacFarland's book delivers tips and tricks from a veteran designer along with expert guidance on what looks good--and what looks dated--to spruce up existing websites or create dazzling new ones. For more information: Dreamweaver CS3: The Missing Manual.




Adobe Photoshop CS3 One-on-One

As with previous editions, Adobe Photoshop CS3 One-on-One (O'Reilly, $44.99 US) guides readers step by step through the program's features and functionality. A key appeal of the One-on-One series is the two hours of DVD-video material included. Once you read about a particular technique, you can see how it's done first hand in the video. The combination is uniquely effective. And hugely popular. For more information: Adobe Photoshop CS3 One-on-One.



Low Budget Shooting

Most photographers will agree that after buying cameras, lenses, computer gear, and software, the spending never seems to end. More gear is needed for studio, tabletop, and flash photography, and for accessories here and there. Often, the right accessories are not even available. That is where this book comes in. Low Budget Shooting is the one-stop source where you will find instructions and a shopping list on how to build an array of useful and inexpensive photographic tools. For more information: Low Budget Shooting.
2K Sports The BIGS

2K Sports, the sports publishing label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc., announced that The BIGS, 2K Sports innovative, action-packed MLBPA and MLB® licensed video game, is now available in stores across North America for the Xbox 360™ video game entertainment system from Microsoft, the PLAYSTATION®3 and the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment systems, the PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system and Nintendo’s Wii.™ For more information: 2K Sports The BIGS.





Grand Theft Auto IV Special Edition

The Grand Theft Auto IV Special Edition will be presented in a customized Grand Theft Auto metal safety deposit box. The box will contain: the Grand Theft Auto IV game, the Grand Theft Auto IV Art Book, the Grand Theft Auto IV Soundtrack, a Rockstar keychain, and a limited edition Rockstart duffel bag. For more information: Grand Theft Auto IV Special Edition.
The Darkness

2K, a publishing label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc., announced that The Darkness™ is now available in North America for Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system. The Darkness is a next-generation, first-person action game that features an immersive and gritty storyline written in collaboration with famed comic book writer Paul Jenkins. For more information: The Darkness.





Transformers: The Game

The fate of the world is in gamers’ hands with the announcement that TRANSFORMERS: The Game from Activision, Inc., under license from HPG, the licensing division of Hasbro, Inc. has shipped to retail stores nationwide. Timed to the highly anticipated theatrical release of the “TRANSFORMERS” live-action feature film from DreamWorks Pictures and Paramount Pictures, the game allows players to experience the unstoppable power and massive scale of the AUTOBOTS and DECEPTICONS in an epic battle for Earth. For more information: Transformers: The Game.



Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

Electronic Arts and Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment announced that the Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix™ videogame ships across North America and will be in-store in Europe from June 28th. Available on multiple platforms, the Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix videogame allows players to explore the many key locations within Hogwarts, each one a visual match to its film equivalent, while being engrossed in the thrilling adventures described in the rich narrative of the books and films. For more information: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix.
Sony BDP-S300 Blu-ray Disc Player

Sony began shipping its new Blu-ray Disc(TM) (BD) player to major consumer electronics retailers and specialty dealers nationwide for a list price of $499.

The BDP-S300 is expected to broaden the high-definition disc player market while delivering new features including the advanced Dolby(R) Digital Plus audio codec as well as BRAVIA(R) Theatre Sync(TM) and CD playback.

"The BD format gained great momentum in the past several months, and we're going to capitalize on that with the new model," said Chris Fawcett, vice president of marketing for Sony Electronics' Home Product Division. "The player gives a broader consumer segment the opportunity to experience the exceptional quality of Blu-ray Disc format at a competitive price." For more information: Sony BDP-S300 Blu-ray Disc Player.

Plus, more Entertainment News:
* Namco Bandai's Naruto: Ultimate Ninja 2 Emerges from the Shadows into Retail
* EA Announces The Sims Pet Stories Hits Store Shelves
* Codemasters Releases DiRT Off-Road Racing Game
* 2K Announces Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer Video Game
Tomb Raider: Anniversary

Lara Croft Tomb Raider: Anniversary is a celebration of Lara's original adventure in an entirely new Crystal Dynamics game. In 1996 the original Tomb Raider video game launched and introduced the world to Lara Croft, one of the entertainment industry's most successful and prolific cross-over properties.

"The anniversary edition is a fan-inspired celebration bridging Lara Croft's groundbreaking past with a revived passion for new adventures and technical advancements," said Bill Gardner, president and CEO of Eidos Inc. "Lara Croft is at the doorway of a new decade, and we've made sure she's ready to face exciting new challenges in the world of entertainment."

Lara Croft Tomb Raider: Anniversary takes advantage of more than 10 years of technical advances to faithfully recreate the sense of isolation, suspense and surprise of the original title, but with greatly expanded environments, enhanced puzzles, updated weapons and the smooth, athletic character movements introduced in Lara Croft Tomb Raider: Legend in 2006. For more information: Tomb Raider: Anniversary.

Plus, more Entertainment News:
* Codemasters Hospital Tycoon Ready to Admit Patients
* Codemasters Announces Pre-Order Program for Upcoming Hit Racing Game DiRT
* The Sims 2 H&M Fashion Stuff Pack and Fashion Runway
* Midway Mortal Kombat: Armageddon for Wii is Ready for Kombat
* Zoo Tycoon 2: Extinct Animals Delivers New Animals And Gameplay
Apocalypto Review

The time period is around the early 1500s. The Mayan culture (although past its initial classic phase of existence) is emerging once again. Prophecies and superstitions are the norm and human sacrifice is all too real. In an effort to appease their gods, the Mayans look to dominate and destroy their surrounding lands and peoples. One tale tells of a young native named Jaguar Paw, who is captured by the Mayans and deemed to be sacrificed. But in a heroic effort, he escapes so that he may save his wife and son, as well as his entire way of life. This is the premise behind Mel Gibson’s Apocalypto.

To say the sights and sounds of this movie are good would be an extraordinary understatement. Apocalypto in Blu-ray format is an extravagant feast for the eyes. The colorful costumes, lush jungle backgrounds, and the heart-racing action scenes are all spectacular. The sounds in Apocalypto are equally stunning. Presented in 5.1 48 kHz, 24-bit uncompressed surround audio, the film score, sound effects, and ambience draw you into the story so that it seems like you are actually there.

Read the full review: Apocalypto Review
Sound ID SM100 Bluetooth Headset

Following its mission to bring personalized sound to mainstream consumers, Sound ID today announced the SM100 EarModule, a new Bluetooth headset. The SM100 offers the ultimate Bluetooth experience with advanced sound quality, personalization capabilities, sleek design and exceptional performance in mobile environments.

Designed for versatility, the SM100 offers three modes of use, Mobile Mode, EnvironmentalMode™ and One2One™ Mode. This lightweight and ergonomic in-ear headset can wirelessly connect to compatible devices, amplify surrounding sound when not being used with a mobile phone for enhanced in-person communications, as well as link to another SM100 EarModule to form two-way radio connections.

“Sound ID is breaking the Bluetooth mold – combining in-depth knowledge of how the human ear processes sound with the power of Bluetooth wireless technology,” said Michael Jones, President and CEO of Sound ID. “The SM100 addresses individuals’ sound preferences with three different signal processing strategies – Normal, Moderate and Strong – which can be changed simply by the push of a button.” For more information: Sound ID SM100 Bluetooth Headset.

Plus, more Tech News:
* AMD Introduces the ATI Radeon HD 2000 Series, Delivering The Ultimate Visual Experience
* Creative Live! Cam Optia AF -- the Only Plug & Play PC Web Camera With Auto Focus Is Now Available
* Relax This Summer with the Clear Bag System - the Stylish Solution for Airplane Carry-on Restrictions
* Insider Software's FontAgent Pro Brings Professional Font Management to Windows
* Microsoft Unveils Microsoft Math 3.0
* Flash CS3: The Missing Manual--New from O'Reilly
* SitePoint releases The Art & Science Of CSS
OWC Mercury Elite-AL Pro 1TB External Drive

Other World Computing (OWC), a leading Mac and PC technology company, announced the availability of the first and only 1.0TB Quad Interface single drive solution on the market, the new OWC Mercury Elite-AL Pro "Quad Interface" 1.0TB External Drive Solution. The drive solution is a high-speed maximum performance system with a wide selection of connectivity options for FireWire 800, FireWire 400, USB 2.0, and eSATA ports. Accessibility to the data is completely transparent to which port interface is used, so the user can take the drive to virtually any computer and use whichever interface is the best available on that computer.

Available immediately for $599 SRP, the OWC Mercury Elite-AL Pro "Quad Interface" 1.0TB External Solution is geared to those that want the convenience of a single drive-based, compact solution with a selection of interface options. The drive solution is ideally designed for audio, video, digital photography, professional music, graphics, and general data. EMC® Retrospect® Backup Certified, it is also perfect for back-up applications. The 1.0TB drive solution is compatible with all Apple® OS Versions 8.5 through 9.2.x; Apple OS X 10.0.3 and higher (including OS X "Tiger(tm)" 10.4.x), Microsoft® Windows® ME, 2000, XP, Vista; and any OS or device with standard FireWire®, USB, or eSATA. For more information: OWC Mercury Elite-AL Pro 1TB External Drive.

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* Closeup Shooting: A Guide to Closeup, Tabletop, and Macro Photography
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* Office 2007: The Missing Manual--New from O'Reilly
Spider-Man 3 Video Game

Even the noblest of Marvel's Super Heroes have a dark side - it's time to unleash yours in the Spider-Man 3(TM) video game from Activision, Inc. Timed to the highly anticipated theatrical release of Sony Pictures Entertainment's Columbia Pictures and Marvel Studios' "Spider-Man 3," based on the famous Marvel characters, the game allows players to experience for the first time Spider-Man's mysterious black-suited persona, as well as heroic red suit while battling villains in a massive New York City playground teeming with activity.

"The Spider-Man 3(TM) video game gives fans the chance to relive their favorite scenes from the film, as well as new storylines brought to life by movie talents Tobey Maguire, Topher Grace, Thomas Haden Church, James Franco and J.K. Simmons," said Rob Kostich, vice president, global brand management, Activision, Inc. "Players will swing into action and choose to follow the film plot or new storylines, fight off crime waves, explore vast exterior and underground locations or battle super-villains while harnessing the power of the black suit." For more information: Spider-Man 3 Video Game.

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* Nyko's Intercooler for PlayStation 3 Console Available Now
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* Critically Acclaimed Hot Shots Franchise Heads to the Courts With Hot Shots Tennis for PlayStation 2
* Eidos Announces North American Street Date for Lara Croft Tomb Raider: Anniversary
* Codemasters Locks-On, Fires Heatseeker At Retail Outlets Nationwide
* Genius Announces New Headset Complete With A Military Grade Noice-Cancelation Microphone
* Genius Launches Two New Speakers - One for Gamers and One for Music Fans
* MyLifeBrand Gamers Contest Announced
* LucasArts and Day 1 Studios Reshape Next-Generation Entertainment With Fracture
Envision Vista-Ready Monitors

Envision Peripherals Inc. (EPI), home to the AOC and Envision branded displays, expanded its Envision line of value priced high-performance displays with the introduction of a new series of TFT active-matrix LCD monitors that allow users to take advantage of the benefits of Microsoft’s new Windows Vista Operating System.

Leading the new line of LCD displays is the 19-inch widescreen Envision G918w1, offering Windows Vista Premium certification to complement Microsoft’s aim to provide enhancements for productivity, multimedia and entertainment. EPI also announced the addition of two new Windows Vista-ready TFT active-matrix LCD displays, the 19-inch Envision H1981 and 17-inch Envision H1781.

The new line of Envision branded monitors is designed to be as attractive as it is functional. Featuring a matte-black cabinet with sleek low-profile design, these units complement virtually any PC or Mac computer, while saving valuable desk-top real estate. Their durable screens are finished with a glare-resistant hard coating that reduces eye-strain and helps prevent scratch-damage. For more information: Envision Vista-Ready Monitors.

Plus, more Tech News:
* Hitachi Ships the One-Terabyte Hard Drive
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* Monster Power Now Shipping 3 New Products
* Pinnacle Systems Introduces the Next Generation of Video Editing Software: Pinnacle Studio 11
* Nero Adds HD Video Authoring and Playback Capabilities to Nero 7 Ultra Edition Enhanced
* Consumers Can Now Change Their Own iPod Batteries, Saving Significant Time and Money
SmartShopper

A revolutionary new kitchen device is now available and here’s the best part – it’s designed for everyone! Celebrities like Constance Zimmer, Swoosie Kurtz, Chef Elizabeth Faulkner, Montel Williams (pictured) and even the ladies from Desperate Housewives have them. So what is this new device that 5 year-old children, 90 year old seniors and movie stars alike are lining up for? It’s called SmartShopper, and it’s guaranteed to change your grocery list-making and shopping experience forever.

Named one of the top ten products at the 2007 International Consumers Electronics Show, the SmartShopper is a voice-activated shopping assistant. Any member of the family can simply press “Record” and say the name of an item they need at the grocery store. The list is displayed in large, easy to read text on an LCD screen. When you are ready to shop, simply press a button and your list prints directly from the unit. The printed list is categorized, so you can easily find what you need in each department or aisle, making your shopping experience far more efficient. For more information: SmartShopper.

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* Disney Expands Popular Electronics Line in Time for Sizzling Summer Fun
* Imation Flash Drives with 8GB of capacity now shipping
* CS Odessa ConceptDraw MINDMAP 5 Increases Business and Personal Productivity
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* US Modular Announces the Newest Cold Fusion Product Line for Gamers
Adobe Creative Suite 3

Adobe Systems Incorporated announced the Adobe® Creative Suite® 3 product line, a revolutionary offering of tightly integrated, industry-leading design and development tools for virtually every creative workflow.

Adobe's new Creative Suite 3 line-up unites the best of Adobe and Macromedia® product innovation to provide designers and developers with a broad spectrum of creative options for all facets of print, web, mobile, interactive, film, and video production.

There are six all-new configurations of Adobe Creative Suite 3. These include, Adobe Creative Suite 3 Design Premium and Design Standard editions; Adobe Creative Suite 3 Web Premium and Web Standard editions; and Adobe Creative Suite 3 Production Premium (see separate releases). Rounding out the product line is Adobe Creative Suite Master Collection which combines 12 of Adobe's new design and development applications in a single box—the most comprehensive creative environment ever delivered. For more information: Adobe Creative Suite 3.

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* Young Jin Releases 40 Digital Photography Techniques, Third Edition
* Adobe Device Central CS3 Mobilizes Creative Pros
* Adobe Introduces Powerful InDesign CS3 Release
* Adobe Delivers Two Editions of Photoshop CS3
* Adobe Reveals Creative Suite 3 Production Premium
* Adobe Debuts Creative Suite 3 Web Premium
* Adobe Unveils Creative Suite 3 Design Premium
Genius Racing Wheels

Genius, a division of KYE Systems Corp., announced a new line of racing wheels for gamers in the U.S. The new line of Genius racing wheels includes the Twin Wheel FF, the Speed Wheel 3MT, the Speed Wheel RV FF, and the Trio Racer FF, all of which are developed for gaming enthusiasts who want a realistic experience while taking their turn at the wheel. All four wheels are available immediately through retail outlets in the U.S.

The Twin Wheel FF is a dual platform (PS2 and PC) racing wheel that features 12 programmable buttons, four suction cups and a C-clamp that provide gamers with the ultimate stability during the racing game. The Genius Speed Wheel 3 MT is a PC only racing wheel with specific PC gaming features that includes vibration feedback, foot pedals and a four-shifter buttons located behind the wheel.

Another PC gaming wheel hitting the market is the Genius Speed Wheel RV FF. This wheel has 12 programmable buttons, a gear shift for manual transmission use during racing games, or it can be used as a hand brake or force feedback for the ultimate driving experience. The Genius Trio Racer FF is a multi-platform that works with both PC, XBox and PS2 gaming systems. This state racing wheel is a one-stop solution for gamers who enjoy racing games on various gaming systems. For more information: Genius Racing Wheels

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* SEGA’s Armored Core 4 Blasts Onto Store Shelves
* EA Ships The Lord Of The Rings, The Battle For Middle-Earth Anthology For The PC
* Dragon's Lair Coming to Blu-ray Disc in True 1080p HD
* King Arthur: Director's Cut on Blu-Ray Disc
* G.I. Jane Available On Blu-Ray Disc April 3
Sanyo Xacti CG6 Video/Still Camera

Weighing less than six ounces with battery and SD card onboard, the pocket-sized SANYO Xacti CG6 digital video/still camera is a stylish choice for spontaneous recording whenever inspiration strikes. For exceptionally clear photos, a new "blur correction with gyro sensor" system effectively corrects unintentional camera shake, while low-light performance down to 2 lux lets the CG6 capture special moments even in candlelight alone.

The "blur correction with gyro sensor" system utilizes advanced digital processing technologies. Without sacrificing the camera's lightweight design, the gyro sensor detects the direction and amount of camera shake during photo-taking and, based on that data, a digital filter cancels the camera shake portion of the captured image. Because the VPC-CG6 also includes a separate digital image stabilizer for video recording, shooting sharp photos and video is virtually automatic.

The SANYO Xacti CG6 features a 6.0 megapixel CCD and a 5X optical zoom lens. This enables ultra-sensitive movie recording that realizes a minimum subject illumination of 2 lux. In addition to advanced sensitive digital processing technologies, the CG6 offers an automatic frame-rate adjustment capability in "Lamp" mode for low-light video recording. For more information: Sanyo Xacti CG6 Video/Still Camera.

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* Wildform Releases WildPresenter Pro 3.1
God of War II

Sony Computer Entertainment America (SCEA) announced the release of God of War(R) II, the highly anticipated sequel to the multi-award winning God of War(R), available exclusively for PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system. Available at $49.99, God of War II contains an extra bonus DVD with over two hours of behind-the-scenes content created for fans of the franchise. Additionally, SCEA officially announced that an original God of War game will be released in the future, exclusively for PSP(R) (PlayStation(R)Portable) handheld entertainment system.

In God of War II, developed by SCEA's Santa Monica Studios, players rejoin Kratos and continue his epic adventure through the dark, violent world of Greek mythology as he journeys to the far reaches of the earth, defeating untold horrors. Armed with a new set of combat moves and magic, in addition to some of the weapons and skills from the original God of War, players will lead Kratos in battle against Colossus, Cyclops, Cerberus, the Flying Gryphon and many more great beasts of Greek mythology. For more information: God of War II

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* Humongous Releases Backyard Baseball 2007
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* Tokko Volume One Premieres On DVD From Manga Entertainment
* MotorStorm Delivers the Ultimate Brutal Off-Road Racing Experience for PlayStation 3 System
* Microsoft Unites Xbox and PC Gamers With Debut of Games for Windows — LIVE

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