October
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DS releases for the week of October 15th
We're not ashamed to admit that we're somewhat excited about Hannah Montana: Music Jam. Oh, not because of Hannah herself or anything, but because this very random little title just looks like it could put Jam Sessions to shame. You thinking of at least renting it? It's okay to admit it. We won't tell. If not, there's plenty more to choose from this week: Avatar: The Last Airbender -- The Burning Earth The Bee Game Disney Princess: Magical Jewels Fish Tycoon Flash Focus: Vision Training in Minutes a Day Fullmetal Alchemist: Trading Card Game Hannah Montana: Music Jam Power Rangers: Super Legends Prism: Light the Way Sea Monsters: A Prehistoric Adventure Tony Hawk's Proving Ground And for the GBA: Avatar: The Last Airbender -- The Burning Earth Check out the rest of the world's major markets after the jump.
DS releases for the week of October 8th
Don't relax just yet, fanfolk -- that wallet isn't getting a break any time soon. Just when you thought you might get a chance to recover from buying Phantom Hourglass, a bevy of new and interesting releases is coming our way. You want action? Check. You want humor? Check and check again. There's a good set this week, and we're not even up to the holidays yet. Bleach: The Blade of Fate The Cheetah Girls: Pop Star Sensations Flipper Critters FIFA Soccer 08 Looney Tunes: Duck Amuck Touch Detective 2 1/2 To see what's happening in the rest of the world, slip past the break.
DS releases for the week of October 1st
Hmm ... isn't there something spectacular hitting this week? Maybe we're thinking of another week ... no, it must be Holly Hobbie & Friends, right? You know you want it!Seriously, folks, DS fans have loads to be pleased about this week. Not only are we getting what may end up being our game of the year, but there are tons of other options if you happen to not be a Zelda fan (gasp!) or if you want to pick up a second or third title. What's on your shopping list? Chibi-Robo: Park Patrol Crash of the Titans Holly Hobbie & Friends Kurupoto Cool Cool Stars The Legend of Spyro: The Eternal Night The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass Master Jin Jin's IQ Challenge Spider-Man: Friend or Foe For the releases in other major markets, sail past the break. Importers especially take note: Mistwalker's Archaic Sealed Heat debuts this week in Japan.
Rumorang: New Xbox 360 bundle, Core this holiday
A "mole" has unearthed a pair of juicy rumors for Opposable Thumbs, detailing not one, but two new Xbox 360 bundles expected just in time for the holiday splurge. The first, described as the Xbox 360 Pro package, will reportedly include a single case featuring both Forza 2 and Marvel Ultimate Alliance, much like what was done with the old Sega GT/Jet Set Radio bundle for the original Xbox. Rumors of this bundle first surfaced last month, and this latest report seems to add a measure of certainty to those claims.This package is expected to drop on October 9, with a similar bundle for the Elite coming October 23. Unfortunately, according to the aforementioned mole, there won't be a price drop, but two free games is two free games. The mole's most interesting suggestion, however, is a new Xbox 360 Core model that will arrive "at the end of October," sporting a HDMI port, wireless controller, 256MB memory card, and five XBLA arcade games (Boom-Boom Rocket, Pac-man, Uno, Feeding Frenzy, and Luxor 2) on a single disc. Even better is that, according to the subterranean varmint, the package will carry the standard Core price of $279.99.If true, these deals look to offer a number of options for those still hesitant to dive into the Xbox 360 pool, making October a month to watch.
System Preference changes, new Preview toolbar in latest Leopard build
The latest Leopard build has dropped, and screenshots, legal or otherwise, are making their way out into the world. Over the weekend, we posted what looks like the opening movie, and here's a shot of Leopard's System Preferences screen. There are a few changes in there-- the Dashboard and Exposé panel is now called "Exposé and Spaces," and quite a few of the icons, including the Dock, Displays, and Sharing icons. And as reader Dave told us, the Command key on the Keyboard and Mouse icon no longer has the Open Apple. Sad.Apparently there's also a new toolbar for Preview.app as well, but I haven't yet seen a screenshot of that one yet. October is just over a month away!
Japan hit by ASH in October
No wonder we've been seeing so much on Archaic Sealed Heat in the magazines lately -- it's scheduled for release in Japan in early October. They must have been working overtime at Mistwalker, because this is no cobbled-together piece of work ... ASH looks like it could end up being one of the most amazing games we've seen on the DS to date. And now, it seems very likely that we'll be seeing a lot more in the coming months. Let's hope for some proper screenshots and a video or three!
Use (almost) Leopard's SysPref icon
If you're at all like me, you didn't wait for too long after the last Stevenote to scour the Internet for that "blades of grass" Leopard wallpaper, just so you too could pretend it was October already and you were using 10.5.Those of you out there (I have no idea how many of you there are-- we're all Mac nerds, right? ...right?) will have to join me in applauding reader Sebastiaan, who noticed that there was a new System Preferences icon in the latest Leopard build, and put it up for download. Spreading the actual icon (and the actual wallpaper, actually) is a no-no, but Sebastiaan's icon is only based on the same design, and not a copy of the icon itself.And even if you aren't into deluding yourself about your version of OS X, it's still a good looking icon. Changing the icon yourself is possible, but using CandyBar is infinitely easier. You too can pretend, at least for a few months until Leopard actually releases, that you're a Leopard-using rockstar.
Dashcode beta expired on schedule
Niclet sends a note that yes, Dashcode's December 2006 v0.9 beta did in fact expire as expected last night. That sound you heard around 12:01 am was actually widget developers everywhere crying out in pain.Well, not exactly everywhere, as apparently there is still a working version of Dashcode in the Leopard developer beta given out at WWDC. And of course all of us will be able to get our hands on the official release of Dashcode when Leopard comes out in October. So cry not, developers-- the real thing is only months away.
Apple announces Leopard delays due to the iPhone
Apple has just issued a press release statement announcing that Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard has been delayed until October. The reason? iPhone: "we had to borrow some key software engineering and QA resources from our Mac OS X team, and as a result we will not be able to release Leopard at our Worldwide Developers Conference in early June as planned." However, Apple will still be displaying a "feature complete" version of Leopard at June's WWDC event, and will be giving beta versions for developers to take home and help put the finishing touches on. This is a pretty significant announcement, especially considering that Apple has fallen under criticism as of late for dropping 'Computer' from their name and seemingly shifting their focus from computers to consumer devices such as the iPod, Apple TV and now Mac OS X-delaying iPhone. In a way though, I'm not surprised either, as a number of Mac OS X developers have expressed disbelief that Apple was going to hit a June release with Leopard in its currently buggy and fairly unfinished state.On the bright side, this hopefully can be taken as a sign that Apple is still committed to releasing quality software, even if slightly late this time around. The company could simply have shipped in June and issued 'Service Pack 1' later to patch all the gaping holes their customers found. But that wouldn't be very Apple, would it?[Update: Still nothing at apple.com/pr, but it has been posted to Apple's Hot News site: http://www.apple.com/hotnews/]
Samsung: BD-P1200 Blu-ray player delayed in UK, hybrid player still possible
We hoped to see the first second generation Blu-ray player this month, but Samsung's BD-P1200 has been delayed. Pocket-Lint.co.uk learned from Samsung's marketing manager that the player has been delayed until October in the U.S., and may not launch at all in the UK before 3rd generation hardware becomes available by Christmas. Stoking the hybrid player rumors even more, he said they could "launch a hybrid player or a Blu-ray recorder tomorrow" but are waiting to see what other companies announce. Although Samsung is a Blu-ray supporter, they recently announced an HD DVD-equipped laptop, and have leaked plans for a hybrid player before. Still, October is a long time to wait for an improved player, especially while second generation HD DVD players and PlayStation 3 are on store shelves. DTV Tivo Dealer on AVS Forum, who previously informed us of a delay in the HD-A2, has heard there will be limited quantities available as soon as April. We don't know who to believe until hardware is actually on the shelf, but we're hoping a low priced hybrid player mysteriously appears tomorrow.Update: Whoops, looks like we got a little ahead of ourselves here. Scratch that part about the P1200 being delayed until October in the US; while forums are indeed buzzing about a delay of some sort, October has not been mentioned by any credible sources. All that jazz about a possible hybrid player, however, is straight from the horse's mouth. Read - Pocket-lint.co.uk Read - AVS Forum
Sharp announces 42-inch 1080p Aquos LCD US availability, pricing - UPDATE
As news continues to pour forth from CEDIA 2006, Sharp has confirmed their 42-inch 1080p Aquos LCD will be hitting the US in October. Previously announced in Japan, the 52- and 46-inch models were already announced for the US, and their 42-inch 8G brother does not disappoint. The Sharp LC-42D62U carries an MSRP of just $2,499, has a native contrast ratio of 1,200:1 (6,000:1 dynamic), 450 nits brightness, 6ms response time and the same piano black cabinet with recessed bottom-mounted speakers of the larger Aquos LCDs. The specs don't quite match up to the 4ms response time and 2000:1 contrast ratio of the two larger models but the price reflects that. This time last year we were drooling over a 45-inch 1080p Aquos HDTV with lesser specs for around $4,500, but we're not looking back to that dark, hellish time. The 52-inch is pictured here, but it should look the same.UPDATE: Fresh pic of the 42-inch LCD right from the floor of CEDIA
Wii: last minute rumors [update 1]
It's almost time, fanboys and girls, for the big announcement that is almost certain to bring us the launch details on the Wii. What does that mean for Wii Fanboy?Rumor roundup time! Yee-haw!After the jump, we not only bring you a rumor compendium, but we also offer the official (!) Wii Fanboy predictions on launch and release date.
DS gets some love from BAFTA
It's the first time the U.K.'s gaming awards have been in their own spotlight (instead of relaxing in the shadow of the film and television awards), and the Nintendo DS has snared some of the attention. We would expect nothing less. Electroplankton and Brain Age both picked up nominations in multiple categories, and they'll be butting heads (brains?) when it comes to which game is Britain's choice for the most innovative of the year. Trauma Center got a nod as well in the simulation category. We're not sure the other nominees are even worth mentioning next to that one. Too bad there isn't a category for games that make you sweat, 'cause they're just that damned hard at times. Trauma Center has always made us idly wish for a third hand, but we love it like ice cream. Can't say we agree with everything they're doing across the pond, though -- they've got New Super Mario Bros. tagged as a children's game. Oh well. I guess we should all put it down and step away slowly. The winners will be announced on October 5. Check back for confetti and poppers when the DS snags some awards.
More evidence of an October release?
We're starting to seriously think the Wii will launch in October. Now enter a bold Joystiq informant who relayed a listing to Joystiq that told of a couple leaked Activision release dates for Wii titles. The listing, which is pictured above, shows Tony Hawk Downhill Jam with an October release date and Call of Duty 3, along with Marvel: Ultimate Alliance, having a release date of November. This image was hastily changed and the informant's inbox was on the receiving end of a revised listing that merely stated these games of having a release date of "Upon Wii launch." Interesting...Joystiq was able to ascertain that the individual responsible for altering the listings was a part of Activision's international media relations team. Considering that Activision is one of the few third-party publishers in full support of the Wii, the idea of them knowing the final release date is not all that far-fetched.
Nintendo Wii due for early launch?
Our money -- since we so regularly put down heavy cash on the intricacies of console launches -- is still on that November 6th date that's been going around, but we're always willing to entertain a bit more tasteful rumoring. This one's from CNNMoney.com's Chris Morris, who cites P.J. McNealy and other unnamed "industry insiders" that the Nintendo Wii is due for October, with a slight chance of late September if the cards are right. This would contrast it to the November 17 PS3 launch, and Microsoft's November 22 last year, and give Nintendo a bit of a head start in the holiday rush. Apparently Nintendo is in pretty good shape to do so, since they've already started manufacturing the Wii, and they so far have only launched one home system in November, the GameCube. It'll probably come down to manufacturing successes and title readiness, and Nintendo might want to give 3rd party titles a bit more time in the oven with the new control schemes that need to be perfected, but a least the anonymous and unverifiable signs are looking good for an early launch, and we're not complaining.[Via Gotakon]
Sneak attack launch quite possible, says CNN Money
Chris Morris' famed "Game Over" column over at CNN Money depicts a tantalizing future...well, a closer one, anyway. Morris states that industry insiders and other various information dealers, lurking in the dark alleys of Kyoto, all point to an early Wii launch in October...or possibly even late September. The biggest shred of proof? "Indeed, the company appears to be already manufacturing final retail units of the Wii, according to a June 21st analyst's note from P.J. McNealy of American Technology Research."If true, this is good news indeed. Not only would allow the Wii this possibly early launch, but supply will certainly be more prolific then the generally bungled Xbox 360 launch. In addition, it would allow Nintendo a heck of a jump start on rival-who-isn't-really-a-rival-but-who-are-you-trying-to-kid Sony, launching in the US on November 17th. Still, can we really expect this? Many assume that Nintendo is going to release final launch information at the Tokyo Game Show, which takes place from September 22nd-24th. Such a short window may not be enough time to build a large marketing campaign and momentum going into the launch. Take it with a grain of salt.[Thanks, Eric!]
Sony BDP-S1 Blu-ray player really IS delayed: October 25
The internet went ablaze a couple weeks ago when someone finally noticed that the Sony BDP-S1 Blu-ray player had been delayed until August on their SonyStyle website (even though it had been like that since April). Now, our friends at HDBlog have noticed that the date has changed again, now shipping on or about October 25th.Ouch. Although as HDBlog notes, SonyStyle is sometimes delayed in receiving new products, until now their website has reflected the exact expected shipping date of Sony's Blu-ray player so we believe it still does. There have been reports that Sony's hardware is still far from ready, and this could support that conclusion, or may be they are just waiting for better quality movies to be available. Another theory suggests they are delaying the BDP-S1 to increase drive availability for the Playstation 3 and alleviate shortages. Whatever the cause, HD DVD is on the ground and gaining momentum, if the BDP-S1 keeps slipping, the PS3 may end up being Sony's first Blu-ray release.Previous Sony BDP-S1 release info:Yes, Sony's BDP-S1 is delayed; Blu-ray isn'tSony BDP-S1 Blu-ray player available for pre-order (again) (August)Sony Blu-Ray available for pre-order (July)[Via HDBlog.net]
3 Final Fantasy XIII games; 2 just for PS3
Final Fantasy XII won't be out for the PS2 in the States until October, but we now have a glimpse of Final Fantasy XIII thanks to Square Enix's pre-E3 press event -- and this installment in the series won't be coming alone.Like the different titles in the Compilation of FFVII collection of games and movies, the initially announced installments in the FFXIII universe will span multiple platforms which, in this case, include both the PS3 and sufficiently advanced mobile handsets. Not much is known about the mobile-bound Final Fantasy Agito XIII, but the subtitle-less version of FFXIII will concern a gun-and-sword-toting heroine in a futuristic world, while Final Fantasy Versus XIII will focus on "a spiky-haired character," "extreme action elements," and a primary theme of "bonding" (whatever that means). Anybody ready to "resist the world"?The multiple titles might explain the earlier rumor reported in March that FFXIII was "practically close to being finished" (maybe only one of these games was nearing completion). Whatever the case may be, we're just happy that more than one not-so-Final-Fantasy will be hitting the next PlayStation in relatively rapid succession. RPG feasting: on the way.[Via Joystiq]
