We're Changing!!!

Hey guys!
As you know we've been with Blogger for an age now, but we're moving onto new horizons.
You can get to the new site at girlgamers.com.au, which is our old URL, unless you accessed and bookmarked the blogger URL, which is why we're posting about it here.

If you've got a comment, make sure you leave it at the new site and not here at the blogger site as this is just an old archive now and all new news and posts will go up at GirlGamers.com.au

ENJOY!

My Little Baby DS by CDV

Ugh, CDV Software Entertainment USA are getting in on the Baby Game thing Ubisoft seem to enjoy battering us with as a species! CDV has announced their newest Nintendo DS title -- My Little Baby. A "family-friendly" - and by that we think they mean little girls - game, My Little Baby gives players the opportunity to raise and care for a baby – all without the real-world messes, sleepless nights, or “terrible two’s.”

Cool kind of like Nintendogs, but with a human, Neato!! Just what we girl gamers wanted!! Players start by choosing virtual parents’ traits – eye color, hair color, skin tone, etc. – that determine the baby’s physical features. Once the baby arrives, it’s up to the player to care for it – cradling, feeding, cleaning, entertaining and dressing the baby. As the baby grows through four distinct developmental stages, it will learn to crawl, then walk, and through interactions with the player via the microphone, can even learn to talk!

A helpful virtual nanny offers feedback and useful tips for raising the baby; while an easy-to-use menu system helps players navigate the world of raising a newborn – from shopping for unlockable food, toys, furniture and clothing to changing diapers. Many of the day-to-day tasks are presented through enjoyable and intuitive mini-games, with mastery praised and rewarded. Doting parents can also take photos of their beautiful new baby for the scrap book, or enter them into an in-game beauty contest! My Little Baby is slated to ship to North American retail Spring 2009.

Well better a virtual baby for young girls than a real one... still these games just leave us with one word in our heads and that word is "Meh!". On the upsode at least their presser wasn't specifically aiming the title at girls, not that that makes much difference.

Gears of War 2 double entendre achievement list

Girl gamers get a mention in machofest Gears of War 2, wow who'd a thunk it. Well it's not all good, in fact some of the names for the achievements made us wonder if Gears of War 2 is gay (you know lots of people have mentioned this before, what with all those sweaty men and no women), or they just like using double entendre names for achievements in the OTT macho game for a laugh.

You've got things like "Escort Service", well we know what an escort service really is don't we. Then there's "Girl About Town", really GIRL about town, are you serious?. "One-Night Stand", for a moment there I thought Marcus and Dom were getting funky. "Open Relationship", yeah Dom probably is in one, makes all those lonely nights with Marcus all the sweeter. "Friends with Benefits", we don't have to say anything do we, since we know what that saying means. "Once More, With Feeling", umm yeah. "Takes a Licking" O-o, "Beat the Meatflag"... my word. "Dirty, Dirty Horde" yeah that is a 'D'.

Dead Space thoughts

Dead Space is a cross format title - 360, PS3, PC - coming out in October and we got a sneak peek at how it's coming along and thought we'd share our thoughts with you. We were dubious about this title because it seemed whereas it could have been a creep fest, it appeared it was going to be just another monster shooter and to a degree that factor does remain true, however, Dead Space may well be more polished than we thought.

Dead Space has some really nice touches, not least of all is the lack of an onscreen HUD system. The HUD is integrated into the character in a clever way, so it's not a distracting feature on the screen whilst playing. Inventory too is a sort of holographic projection seen in real time by you and the protagonist (Isaac). Weapon upgrades in game are done by Isaac on a work bench and this is a neat touch, kind of like in BioShock when you're making things.

For the female gamer Isaac is obviously a guy (as usual don't all yawn at once), but there is Kendra (sadly not Shaw as that would have been awesome! - BSG fans know what we mean), she serves as your helper, though usually by voice only giving you updates etc.

Still not sure about that weird mining suit, but hey, this game overall is looking VERY nice indeed. We can't wait to get our hands on it for review.

Sexist gaming courtesy Ubisoft?

Are Ubisoft perpetuating gender issues within gaming and does this cause problems for the female gamer or actually help. It's a long convoluted question, but a very relevant one given the recent spate of Ubisoft developed and published titles that are specifically aimed at a gender specific market.

As female gamers it raises hackles to see another 'Raises a Baby' title, a bit like hearing a male gamer say 'get back in the kitchen bitch', because titles with such engendered negativity piss us off. That said it could also be argued - to play devils advocate a moment - that these titles actually aid the female gamer by introducing a new age group of female gamers that will be playing more mature titles in another 6 to 10 years.

Perhaps that's the thing, perhaps these lame ass titles Ubisoft are releasing of late will indeed hook in a new generation of female gamers, but to what end? When a gaming schedule release list has titles like: "Imagine: Baby club" and "Imagine: Dream Wedding" listed specifically under "Girl's Sim" and titles like: "Jake Power Fireman" and "Jake Power Policeman" listed specifically under "Boy's Sim" it's really not that difficult to see the problems this can perpetuate. The assumption would be that girls do not become fire fighters or policemen, they merely are only interested in marriage and popping out babies.

One wonders whether girl sim "Imagine: Wife" and boys sim "Imagine Bread Winner" are also in the pipeline. How ironic that these titles should be labeled the "Games For Everyone" series.

Some other examples sure to get the feminists blood boiling: For the girls.... Imagine Babies, Imagine Happy Cooking, Imagine Fashion Designer (though on the upside there is Imagine Pet Vet, so at least this is more academic in nature). Maybe this explains why Ubisoft appear to have no interest in supporting the female gamer demographic?

My Baby DS - Just like a REAL baby!!

Want to know what it's like to care for a REAL baby, no problem, you can have that very experience on your Nintendo DS. According to the press release for My Baby on Nitendo DS:

"My Baby is a game that simulates life for baby care with as much affection and tenderness as a real parent. Watch them grow, change form and develop from 0 to 14 months by using all the functionalities of your portable console (breath, voice, stylus, etc.)."

Wow just like a real parent!! Probably best you avoid this title given it will keep you awake all hours of the night, spew on you, dirty itself every time you feed it and cost you the rest of your life as you save to put it through college.

The only upside to the press release was it wasn't aimed specifically at female gamers, which is in itself a miracle!!

Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise card image released

Looking forward to Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise? Well Rare has released images of the first official 'Viva Piñata Vision Card' for use in Viva Piñata: Trouble In Paradise.

You'll be able to use the cards via the vision camera on the Xbox 360 and they'll give you in game extras / effects. You'll be able to get the cards via download, so at least you're not shelling out loads of cash for them.

Oh dear I can see where this is heading, folders of silly cards that seemed a great idea when you got them, then utterly useless moment's later. I still have a crate of Animal Crossing E-Reader cards I wish I'd never bought.

Wonder how long it will be before someone makes an Viva Pinata iPhone Application that shows the cards.

New Lara Croft Model dons guns and short shorts

The new Lara Croft model has been named and she is - apparently - a former gymnastics representative for Great Britain. Not a bad choice for the flipping and leaping Lara Croft.

From the Presser:
Athletic and agile, 23 year old Alison Carroll from Croydon is set to be catapulted from her current job as a receptionist to a world of superstardom as she follows in the footsteps of Oscar-winning actress Angelina Jolie and model Nell McAndrew to become the new face of Lara Croft.

Unlike her predecessors Alison does not come from a modelling background, but with 12 years' experience as a professional display gymnast, she is completely at ease at the thought of appearing in front of thousands of screaming Lara Croft fans. She certainly had no trouble impressing the judges when she competed against hundreds of other hopefuls in the search to find the live model of the action heroine.

Alison is an elite gymnast who has flown the flag for Great Britain. She has performed across the UK and overseas as part of a team of twenty athletes, wowing Prince Charles when she appeared at a special event at Westminster Abbey. She is also a dedicated coach of younger gymnasts, and recently choreographed the routine for the junior team that won the British National Championships.

Alison already follows a rigorous training regime, visiting the gym six times per week, and will be well prepared as she embarks on the fast and gruelling training programme required to portray sexy heroine Lara Croft. Starting immediately she will undertake a series of courses which will include a SAS survival, combat and semi-automatic weapon firing courses in Eastern Europe, and a crash course in world archaeology, to become the world famous, archaeologist and action heroine.

Once completely trained in the ways of video gaming’s leading lady, Alison will be lining up a host of international modelling assignments, starring in TV commercials, appearing on chat shows and is set to travel the globe over the coming months.

Alison Carroll says; “This is a fantastic opportunity and I am really looking forward to embracing Lara’s world” said Alison Carroll “I still can’t believe they chose me to take on the role of Lara – and I can’t wait to get stuck in. This is my dream job – I have always wanted to be an action hero and hope to be able to use my gymnastic ability to perform all of Lara’s stunts. It is slightly daunting but I am really excited at the same time.”

Sarah Hoeksma, Eidos Group Marketing Director says; “With her tremendous athletic ability, dance training and striking look we feel Alison embodies all the assets required to be the live model of Lara Croft, and we are really looking forward to working with her.”

Alison follows in the footsteps of previous Lara Croft stars, Karima Adebibe, Lucy Clarkson, Rhona Mitra, Nell McAndrew, Lara Weller and of course Angelina Jolie in the Tomb Raider movies.

Tomb Raider: Underworld marks the first game in this popular, recognisable series that is designed specifically for next generation consoles. Lara Croft uncovers proof of the existence of the mythical hammer of the Norse God Thor, a weapon rumored to have the power to smash mountains into valleys and destroy the Gods themselves.

Setting an epic journey around the globe in motion, Lara visits the ruins of ancient civilizations, collecting clues that lead her to a forgotten power that could lay waste to civilization. Exploiting the power and capabilities of next generation consoles, Lara must hunt for clues across massive environments, solving multifaceted puzzles, facing foes both animal and supernatural, this time with the aid of enhanced weapons and abilities.

Female Gamers and double standards

Girl Gamers have to put up with a lot of crap in gaming because it's seen - by some morons - as not their hobby, like guys have some right to it. As soon as a female gamer speaks up in annoyance at something she's being picky, or bitchy, or arguing about something with no merit and should just shut her mouth and head back to the kitchen.

Sister site lesbian gamers, a site that's interesting because it gives us a differing angle on the plight of the female gamer, a minority of a minority if you like, recently got a lot of shit for an article they did a while ago called The Biggest Dicks in Gaming. The thing about this is the abuse that they suffered as a result of being linked to from N4G, a site that clearly has no moderators and must be run by backward 14 year old boys judging from the hatred within.

The thing that really gets me pissed here is that as the LG site also points out, it's okay for guys sites to ridicule and make fun of things in the female realm, but if a female gamer does the same, even in a joking manner - as was the case with the Biggest Dicks article - they're completely blasted for it. The recent 'Vagina Hero' game controller at Ripten shows this to be the case and it really burns me up! (no I wont give them a link, it was pathetic).

We all love gaming people, so how about we stick it to these brainless twerps with their uneducated views and all just get along FFS.

Fat Princess game angers feminists

Fat Princess for the PSN is causing a stir all over the place what with the 'Fat Princess' premise. Apparently the fact she's fat is a major put down and obviously therefore carries with it a whole conspiratorial background about how that perpetuates fat hate in the real world.

Female gamers have to put up with a lot of crap in gaming, there's little doubt, but the political correctness surrounding this title seems a little over the top. It's okay to slag off commenters and call them trolls, even when they're being polite, but it's not OK to hear out both sides of the argument. Feminism is a dangerous ball game. You can read a whole heap more at Lesbian Gamers who have a more well rounded view of things.

Mean Girls, Clueless & Pretty in Pink games

Paramount and Legacy Interactive announced today that they are developing titles based on the popular Paramount Pictures’ films, Clueless, Mean Girls and Pretty in Pink.

In Clueless: The Game, the player takes on the part of Cher trying to find the perfect boyfriends for all her pals. Players will need to figure out what kind of guy their friends want by noticing what clothes these potential suitors wear and what sort of interests they have. Once Cher knows what they want, she will have to pick out the right elements to make the perfect man for them. Players will have to be quick! Love waits for no one!

Mean Girls: High School Showdown, allows players to take on the role of a student trying to restore balance to the many cliques in their high school and to end the reign of the terrible “Plastic clique,” the prettiest girls and the meanest of the mean. To do this, players will need to unite the cliques by using a few tricks of their own. Players can choose to take the high road by using kind words and revealing important truths at the right time, or use the Plastic’s own evil tricks against them, by using rumors, pranks and put downs. A mix of both might go a long way, too!

The classic 80’s hit movie, Pretty in Pink, is known as a movie that defined a generation, and now players will have the chance to relive the story in an all-new entertaining game format. Through a series of beautifully rendered scenes, players will need to solve a variety of fun and challenging visual puzzles in order to experience the memorable story about love, friendship, the clash of social cliques and how to rise above them. Andie, Duckie, Blane, and the rest of the unforgettable characters from both “the wrong side of the tracks” and not, return to play out the romantic fairytale love story, but this time with a dramatic difference…their fate will be put in the hands of the player.

GirlGamers prediction... cool films... crap games.

Tomb Raider Underworld trailer

Tomb Raider Underworld is going to bring down the house if this trailer is anything to go by. Watch and be amazed. Tomb Raider: Underworld sees Lara undertake her riskiest mission yet, descending to the depths of the underworlds. For generations, stories have been told of the fearsome weapon of the Norse god, Thor. Legend has it that he who wields the hammer has the power to smash mountains into valleys and the strength to destroy even the gods. For more than a thousand years it has existed only as a myth…until now. It's out November 18.

Cammie Dunaway is NOT fake!

Poor Cammie Dunaway, she's the Nintendo rep that got up at E3 and kicked some sword swinging ass with Reggie. Thing is some gamers are on her back this week for being too cheery... what the hell? It's prompted her to tell tech blog Wired that she's not fake.

"Tell your blog that I'm really a genuinely smiley, nice person. Because people think I'm fake, smiling up there,"

How sad that she'd feel the need to explain herself. Why is it a guy can be as cheesy as a triple cheese stuffed crust, but a woman looks smiley and she's the devil. If Cammie had got on stage non happy and serious, she'd have been a bitch. Go figure.

Wanted gets game - Angelina Jolie?

Universal Pictures Digital Platforms Group (UPDPG) is creating a video game based on Universal Pictures’ blockbuster action-thriller Wanted, starring James McAvoy, Morgan Freeman and Angelina Jolie. The game will be published worldwide by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment and is being developed by renowned game developer GRIN, best known for its work on the Tom Clancy: Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter series and the upcoming Bionic Commando. The film, which was released on June 27, 2008, has earned $192 million in worldwide box office to date.

Based upon Mark Millar’s graphic novel series and helmed by stunning visualist director Timur Bekmambetov — creator of the most successful Russian film franchise in history — Wanted tells the tale of one apathetic nobody’s transformation as he is introduced to a new life and new powers that he never knew existed. With the film’s successful release, the world has been introduced to a hero for a new generation: Wesley Gibson.

“Wanted is a film with a fantastic visual style, an in-your-face attitude and edge-of-your-seat action sequences, and moviegoers around the world have resoundingly embraced it,” said Bill Kispert, Vice President and General Manager, Interactive, Universal Pictures Digital Platforms Group. “From the time we read the script and saw the film’s pre-visual material, it was clear that Wanted was a powerful property – one that was well poised to deliver an engaging gaming experience. We look forward to working closely with the film’s creative team to extend Wanted’s mythology and to expand the story behind the Fraternity of Assassins.”

The Wanted video game will feature intense third-person action, taking combat to a new level with iconic moves — such as “curving bullets” and “Assassin Time” — drawn directly from the film, as well as an innovative, multi-layered cover mechanic. The storyline of the game will pick up where the movie leaves off, providing fans with another chapter to explore both Wesley’s journey into becoming an überassassin and the epic fiction of the Fraternity.

Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment will publish the Wanted video game, utilizing its premiere sales, marketing and distribution capabilities to deliver the title to gamers worldwide.

“Wanted is a striking property with gripping action, which presents strong gaming possibilities,” said Martin Tremblay, President, Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment. “Publishing the Wanted game is an excellent opportunity for Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment to team with Universal on a global property with terrific cross-platform potential. Players will get to immerse themselves in the Wanted universe with a stunning visual experience and engaging gameplay.”

The project also re-teams UPDPG with executive game producer Pete Wanat, who has previously collaborated with the film studio on critically acclaimed movie-based games The Thing, The Chronicles of Riddick: Escape from Butcher Bay, and Scarface: The World is Yours.

Disney Sing It - Disney Karaoke comes to console

Disney Interactive Studios today announced Disney Sing It, the only karaoke video game that challenges players to out-sing friends with songs and authentic videos from favorite Hollywood Records artists, Disney Channel Original Series and Disney Channel Original Movies. Fans of all ages can discover their inner performer by belting out hits from Camp Rock, High School Musical, Hannah Montana, Miley Cyrus, Jesse McCartney, Aly & AJ and more. Disney Sing It will be available for all major video game consoles this holiday season.

“Disney Sing It is the only karaoke game on the market that enables friends to compete and sing to current hits from today’s top Disney artists,” said Craig Relyea, senior vice president of global marketing, Disney Interactive Studios. “Families are demanding quality games for their home consoles, and Disney Sing It delivers a great karaoke experience paired with genuine music videos from today’s favorite Disney properties and artists in a fun, social game for playing with friends, at parties or on family game nights.”

Sounds like this will be one of those cringeworthy titles I'd despise, but hey, lord knows it will sell by the bucketload, so it's here for those interested in this sort of thing.

GTA DS - China Town Wars

Rockstar Games has announced Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars. Developed by Rockstar Leeds in conjunction with series creators Rockstar North, Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars will be available on the Nintendo DS in North America and Europe this winter [Yes that did say DS].

"This is a game that will deliver a rich, fast-paced and intense 'Grand Theft Auto' experience that will be truly unique to Nintendo's handheld platform," said Sam Houser, Founder of Rockstar Games. "Rockstar Leeds, along with the team at Rockstar North, has built upon a decade of progressive design on Grand Theft Auto, and has created something fundamentally fresh and immersive."

Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars is an entirely original entry into the critically acclaimed Grand Theft Auto series, and brings a new level of interactivity to its sprawling open environments. With the use of the DS touch screen, players will navigate their way through the streets as they uncover the truth behind an epic tale of crime and corruption within the Triad crime syndicate, delivering the unprecedented amount of depth that has become a true trademark of the franchise.

Rock Revolution by Konami

Konami blew it at E3 with a shambolic Rock Revolution intro. The game is a music-based party game – for PLAYSTATION 3, Xbox 360, Wii and Nintendo DS.

Konami is arguably the originator of the ‘rhythm action’ genre, with ground-breaking titles such as the ever-popular Dancing Stage series, plus classic music-themed titles as Karaoke Stage, Beatmania and Guitar Freaks. The publisher has now returned to the genre it pioneered- to cash in - with the most advanced music title for any format, with Rock Revolution boasting the most authentic drum kit imaginable, while bass and lead guitar accessories are also supported. The game has been designed and honed by real musicians, and features a wealth of innovative single-player and multi-player modes.

Xbox Lips - Singstar on Xbox 360

OK so it's not exactly Singstar, but it is the first clone on the Xbox 360 and some gamers have been gagging for it. “Lips,” is an all-new music franchise exclusively for Xbox 360. “Lips” is the only singing game that offers wireless motion-sensitive microphones and the ability to sing from your own music collection of DRM-free songs. Start channeling your favorite pop star because it’s you, your friends and most important your music that turns “Lips,” the new singing game for Xbox 360, into the world’s ultimate party experience this holiday season.

Xbox Live Primetime - XBLA E3

Xbox Live Primetime is a groundbreaking channel on the new Xbox experience, a new generation of games and entertainment experiences that will be available this fall for Xbox 360. The world’s biggest virtual game show stage, Xbox LIVE Primetime is a place where content is always fresh; play is global, live and massively multiplayer; and prizes are plentiful. A first-of-its-kind phenomenon, this new generation of interactive game shows lets Xbox LIVE members challenge friends and choose to compete against people from across the globe in real time. Xbox LIVE Primetime launches in the fall with the following interactive game:

Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts

Famed game developer Rare Ltd. is reviving one of its most beloved and successful franchises exclusively on Xbox 360 with the third installment of the “Banjo-Kazooie” series. “Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts” embraces new and old fans alike, as the famous bear and bird duo return in stunning high definition for a unique adventure of epic proportions. The Lord of the Games (aka LOG) is tired of the petty squabbling between Banjo and the evil witch Gruntilda (aka Grunty), and has arranged a showdown to decide the rightful owner of Spiral Mountain. Claiming to have created every video game ever made, LOG has built the game worlds in which the contest’s challenges take place. Banjo must complete LOG’s challenges to win, while Grunty tries to stop him using every method her devious mind can muster.

EA's E3 2008 Line-Up

EA will kick off its E3 presence with a press conference hosted by CEO John Riccitiello, and spotlighting many of the creative leaders as well as featuring new titles from EA including but not restricted to:

Dead Space, FaceBreaker, HASBRO FAMILY GAME NIGHT, LITTLEST PET SHOP, Mercenaries 2: World in Flames, Mirror’s Edge, Command & Conquer Red Alert 3, Crysis Warhead, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, The Lord of the Rings: Conquest, SimCity™ Creator for the Wii, MADDEN NFL 09, NBA LIVE 09, Skate It, TIGER WOODS PGA TOUR 09, Rock Band 2, Left 4 Dead.

Rhianna Pratchett has Faith

Electronic Arts Inc. has announced that writer and story designer Rhianna Pratchett is responsible for crafting the intricate script for Mirror’s Edge - a unique first-person action adventure WITH a female lead no less!! Pratchett introduces players to Faith, a ‘runner’ in a world where communication channels are highly monitored and the movement of human traffic is closely watched. When Faith’s sister gets framed for a murder she did not commit, Faith finds herself on the edge of the city, on the wrong side of the law.

On a side note Rhianna Pratchett is daughter of fantastic writer Terry Pratchett and she also penned the story in Heavenly Sword, another female character that rocked!

Bikini Zombie Slayers Onechanbara

Zombies across the world will meet their match when D3Publisher (D3P) brings the popular bikini-clad samurai sisters Aya and Saki to our shores in Onechanbara™: Bikini Zombie Slayers on the Wii™ console. Bikini Zombie Slayers will ship to retail stores in early 2009, giving gamers their long-awaited taste of the series famous for its iconic characters and heart-pounding third-person hack-and-slash action.

In Onechanbara: Bikini Zombie Slayers, Aya is out to find the meaning of her IMICHI ancestors, even if it leads to the answer she does not wish for. Players can master the sword to take full advantage of the Wii RemoteTM motion controls by slashing, swinging and thrusting into zombie enemy hordes. Play as either sister Aya or Saki in single player or with a friend in Co-Op Mode and utilize each of their unique fighting styles and set of moves. Get too much blood on either sister and be driven into Rage Mode and gain more power and agility to destroy enemies faster and deadlier. Every person met and enemy battled brings the sisters closer to understanding who or what is behind the zombie outbreak and putting an end to it.

Oh and being in bikini's was TRULY NEEDED for the games storyline.. honestly it was.. it wouldn't have been the same were they wearing, oh I don't know.. kevlar and leather jeans for protection.

Buffy the Vampire Slayer: Sacrifice on DS

Currently under development by Romanian studio Beast, Buffy the Vampire Slayer: Sacrifice combines third-person and first-person gameplay to create an experience like nothing else on Nintendo DS. The stakes are high for players as they take on the role of Buffy to seal the re-opened Hellmouth in an original story penned by Rob Deshotel, a writer from the TV series.

This action-packed 3D survival horror game sees Buffy using a range of special weapons, powerful spells and martial arts to take out vicious vampires and demons. In addition to these enemies, players also come across recognisable characters from the show, including Spike, Angel, the Master, the First Evil, Caleb and, of course, the Scooby Gang.

Natsume's Princess Debut

Natsume, a worldwide developer and publisher of family-oriented video games, announced a new original IP, Princess Debut, a rhythm and adventure game for girls.

The game is coming to the Nintendo DS system this fall. Published and developed by Natsume, Princess Debut offers gamers the chance to step through a portal into a magical world where they become a princess.

Girls will have to master their dance moves and woo one of the six charming princes in time for the big ball!

"What young girl doesn't dream of becoming a princess? Princess Debut transports girls into that magical fairytale world while introducing elements of dance and music," said Hiro Maekawa, President and CEO at Natsume. "Princess Debut is a fun rhythm and adventure game with some of the most beautiful and fluid dancing ever seen in a DS title."

It's a shame developers don't spend more time adding female characters to the IP's they already have than coming up with new / sub par games aimed specifically at the young girl gamer market.

Midways E3 Lineup announced

Mortal Kombat® vs. DC Universe (PLAYSTATION®3, Xbox 360®, Fall 2008) - For the first time ever Scorpion, Sub-Zero and the Mortal Kombat warriors battle with Batman, Superman and other popular DC Universe super heroes. Choose your side and challenge your opponents with a new fighting system including Freefall Kombat and Klose Kombat along with dynamic multi-tiered environments. Plus, pick your favorite character from MK or DCU and pursue a fighting adventure in the new single player mode with an intertwined storyline and two unique perspectives.

Wheelman™ (PLAYSTATION®3, Xbox 360®, PC; Fall 2008) - Combining spectacular Hollywood-style stunts with a gripping storyline, Wheelman provides an adrenaline-fueled, cinematic thrill ride guaranteed to leave you breathless. Vin Diesel stars as an undercover agent and highly skilled driver who must infiltrate the Barcelona underworld to gather intelligence surrounding a covert heist. Posing as a driver-for-hire, he ends up caught in a crossfire of corruption and chaos while trying to stay one step ahead of local law enforcement and rival gangs.

TNA iMPACT!™ (PLAYSTATION®3, Xbox 360®, Wii, PlayStation 2; September 2008) - TNA iMPACT!™ is the exclusive Total Nonstop Action wrestling game based on the top-rated weekly television show, "TNA Impact!" Choose the wrestling style, custom move set and clothing to construct the ultimate champion. TNA drenches the player in moves and match types that allow amazing acrobatic and aerial feats along with the bone-jarring crush of hard-hitting impacts. The game also features top wrestling talent such as Kurt Angle™, Jeff Jarrett™, Rhino™, Samoa Joe™, AJ Styles™, Sting™, Christian Cage™, Abyss™ and more to deliver all of the excitement and action of the television show!

Blitz the League® II (PLAYSTATION®3, Xbox 360®; Fall 2008) - As the sequel to the more than one million unit selling and award-winning football experience, BLITZ: THE LEAGUE II, continues the franchise legacy as the ultimate alternative to the watered-down, licensed competition. In addition to an all-new story mode penned by Peter Egan (ESPN's Playmakers), BLITZ: THE LEAGUE II features include: Precision-Aim Tackles, player-controlled touchdown celebrations, an enhanced on-the-field Clash Mode, online multiplayer capabilities, expanded rosters with all-new personalities, and the return of a cornerstone of the Blitz franchise...Late Hits! Football legend Lawrence Taylor returns as the game's cover-athlete and star linebacker for the New York Nightmare, Quentin Sands, along with a star-studded supporting cast.

This is Vegas™ (PLAYSTATION®3, Xbox 360®, 2009) - When a ruthless businessman begins turning Vegas into a family-friendly tourist trap, you must start your own powerful empire and resurrect the famous adult playground. Party hard at the hottest clubs to make VIP connections. Grow your bankroll by hitting high stakes tables. Race the fastest cars on the underground circuit to raise your reputation. Fight off enemies with fists and firearms to prove your strength. Where you go and what you do is your call. Whether counting cards, seducing dangerous women, cruising the strip or starting bar brawls, there's lots of excitement on the way to the top.

Unreal Tournament 3 - (Xbox 360®; July 2008) - Unreal Tournament 3, the world's premier PC first-person shooter makes its debut on the Xbox 360®. Unreal Tournament 3 unleashes the full power of Unreal® Engine 3, taking graphics, gameplay, and challenge to a whole new level. Players engage in intense battles with other human players online, or against Unreal artificial intelligence that sets the industry standard. With the most powerful futuristic weapons and vehicles available, this is FPS action at its best!

Game Party™ 2 (Wii, November 2008) -- With 11 games in all, Game Party 2 for the Nintendo Wii includes fun to play games that will provide hours of enjoyment with friends and family. Game Party 2 features new games like Bean Bag Toss, Horseshoes, Lawn Darts, Puck Bowling and more. Each game, including classics like Skill Ball, Darts and Hoop Shoot has exciting new features like four player mode, customizable characters and tournament play, making Game Party 2 the ultimate party game for all ages and skill levels.

Touchmaster® 2 (Nintendo DS, September 2008) - TouchMaster 2 returns with a collection of 20 new exciting card, action, strategy and puzzle games with some of your favorite classic games from back in the day. For the gamer and non-gamer alike, TouchMaster 2 offers pick up and play, addictively fun, mini-games that everyone will enjoy. Kill some time by playing a quick round to beat your high-score or find some real competition against other players. TouchMaster 2, the personal arcade that fits snug in the palm of your hands.

Mechanic Master™ (Nintendo DS, September 2008) - With over 100 levels! Mechanic Master uses the stylus as a weapon to rid the Earth of alien invaders that have scattered across the planet. Become the ultimate Master of Mechanics by creating crazy contraptions to free humans, keep the mechanics in motion and defeat those pesky foes. Test your skills. Creative-thinking is key to clearing the level.

MidwayArcade.com (Online, Available Now) - Fans of Midway's classic arcade and Touchmaster casual games will now be able to download their all-time favorites and play them on their PC. More than 25 classic titles, such as Defender, Joust, Spy Hunter, Root Beer Tapper and Mahki, are now available at www.midwayarcade.com, starting for as little as 3 games for US $5. Compete for bragging rights against players from around the world and battle for the high score in each game.

Free PS3 from Sony with Bravia purchase

Heads up Australian technophiles. Sony are running a PS3 giveaway in conjunction with their Sony Bravia TV models. This means if you buy a particular model of Sony Bravia you could get a free PS3.

There are 35 thousand PS3's up for grabs, but they need to be redeemed before they run out obviously. We'd be sticking the countdown on here so people know if there are any left, but the code spits the dummy when we try and embed it, so you'll just have to check the Sony site for updates.

Sony Site

Heaveny Sword for PS3 gets some talk

If you've got a PS3 and don't have Heavenly Sword.. .shame on you! What an awesome game it is and what an awesome lead character in the form of Nariko. Anyway that aside we thought we'd let you know we'll be covering things when Tom Jones (not the singer... the developer) hosts a series of talks between July 7 and 18. Tom Jones will give an exclusive insight into the making of Heavenly Sword at events taking place during 7-18 July in Moscow, London, Stockholm, Frankfurt and Warsaw.

We would love nothing more than to report Heavenly Sword 2 is in the offing as was suggested earlier this year by Ninja Theory heroine and cool lady Nina Kristenson, but alas that is looking less and less likely. Still, it would be awesome wouldn't it. Shame Nariko aka actress Anna Torv is so busy on J. J. Abram's new TV series Fringe to be swooshing swords about.

Snowboarding and Video Games

You can't play Guitar Hero on Tour with gloves on. That was lesson number one of our recent snowboarding trip. Number 2 was, playing a white DS, with white stylus, in the snow, never a good idea.

Yes we're back after our snowboarding break, no bones were broken, just sore ankles. Oh and what a busy week it's been with gaming, my goodness we've got so much to play it's sick!

As mentioned we took Guitar Hero on Tour with us when we were 'on tour' and it was a hoot, but not without a few issues. Still we think it's worth the purchase if you like the Guitar Hero games.

The gals over at LesbianGamers.com are letting us use their review, which will be live any moment.

Spore Galactic Edition

For the ultimate Spore fan, Maxis has announced the limited Galactic Edition of the highly-anticipated game from the creators of The Sims. This special box will contain the 'Making of Spore' DVD, ‘The Art of Spore’ hardback mini-book, a fold-out Spore poster, and a premium 100-page Galactic Handbook. The Galactic Edition will also feature a DVD documentary from the National Geographic Channel called “How to Build a Better Being”.

“The Spore Galactic Edition is the ultimate backstage pass for the Spore universe,” said Patrick Buechner, vice president of marketing, Maxis. “The Spore Galactic Edition is an incredible collection of art, video and behind-the-scenes access to the development team for fans, along with some of the coolest, most collectable packaging in years.”

Spore is released - finally - on 5th September 2008.

Feminized Girl Gaming Team

Thought the following press release might be of interest to female gamers and those interested in what's happening in the realm of female gaming, so here goes.....

With immediate effect the Female Counter Strike Source team previously known as ‘Feminized’ have become part of Reason Gaming’s expanding PC division. With a strong track record behind them the girls plan to build upon previous successes and represent Reason Gaming to the highest level in the European community.

With an undefeated record in the Femina Source League the previous Feminized line up have already displayed their potential with a flawless record. Reason’s new lineup will be taking part in the next season of the Femina Source League, SGL’s Benelux Premier Division and Enemy Down’s ladder in addition to planning boot camps and LAN’s in coming months.

The squad consists of five core members recruited from UK, Switzerland, Norway and Denmark bringing together the greatest female gaming talent in Europe, "We are proud to become part of Reason-Gaming! After finishing top in the first season of the Femina Source League undefeated, we knew it was time to move on to competitive mixed tournaments including LANs” remarked Kelly-Anne Chapman squad leader. “We have recently strengthened our team with a new 5th, and we look forward to continuing our success with great results under the Reason tag. Joining Reason will make our goals a reality, and we are pleased to have the opportunity to become part of their success story!"

“After venturing into female gaming earlier this year we were pleased to see so much interest and activity. Feminized had an impressive track record and with our other teams representing Reason at a European level we knew that the dedication and skills shown by these players were exactly what we are looking for.” noted Ben Dalloway, General Manager.

Women’s Volleyball Championship PS2

Female volleyball game for PS2 and not a bikini is sight! Who knew actual maturity and intelligence might strike video gaming in this manner. Agetec has announced its upcoming game, Women’s Volleyball Championship, for the Sony PS2. Women’s Volleyball, will feature six venues from around the world and be released in August 2008.

“A key feature in Women’s Volleyball is players get a chance to create and train their own team. If players want their volleyball players to have certain qualities, this game allows them to customize their players to their liking,” says Mark Johnson, producer at Agetec. “Another great feature of the game is that the volleyball players are affected by real life conditions like exhaustion and dominant hand, adding an unprecedented level of realism to the game.”

Not sure how well this will sell given volleyball of itself isn't a huge sport, but it's nice to see a women's sport being taken seriously for a change, shame it wasn't women's soccer, that would have been way cool.

Guitar Hero III download info

From the Press:
SANTA MONICA, Calif., Jun 13, 2008: The reflective and emotional chords of multi-award winning band Coldplay are making their debut on Activision, Inc.'s (Nasdaq:ATVI) Guitar Hero® III: Legends of Rock with the release of a three-track downloadable song pack.

Included in the song pack is the hit single "Violet Hill," from the band's highly anticipated new album, Viva la Vida, which is set for release on June 17, 2008. The pack also features Coldplay's first smash hit "Yellow" that earned them a legion of fans worldwide, as well as the upbeat and melodic tune "God Put a Smile Upon Your Face" from the Grammy® Award-winning album, A Rush of Blood to the Head. The Coldplay track pack will be available on June 19, 2008 for download on Xbox LIVE® Marketplace for Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and in the PLAYSTATION®Store for the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system.

Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock offers the ultimate rock experience with new wireless guitars, freshly added content and features including a multiplayer action-inspired battle mode, grueling boss battles, a host of exclusive unlockable content and visually stunning rock venues. Expanded online multiplayer modes allow axe-shredders worldwide to compete head-to-head for true rock status as they riff through a star-studded soundtrack including master tracks by legendary artists such as Aerosmith, Guns 'N' Roses, The Rolling Stones, Beastie Boys, Rage Against the Machine and Pearl Jam, as well as original songs by guitar icons Slash and Tom Morello. Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock is now available and is rated "T" for Teen by the ESRB. For more information visit www.guitarhero.com.

Female Games Characters in Movies

One of our favorite Grrl Gaming sites has put up a really cool article about who they think should be cast if various big name games were made into movies. The article titled 'Casting Female Gaming Leads' includes such class characters as Alyx Vance, Samus and Cortana to name but a few.

Some of the female game characters to actress likenesses are spot on. You can check out the article at HERE.

Square Enix Xbox 360 RPG lineup

From the Press Release:
Square Enix Ltd., the publisher of Square Enix® interactive entertainment products in Europe and other PAL territories, today announces three new RPGs for the Microsoft Xbox 360™ system that will be released across all PAL territories beginning with INFINITE UNDISCOVERY™ on 5th September 2008 and followed by THE LAST REMNANT™ and STAR OCEAN®: THE LAST HOPE™. All three RPGs will be globally released in 2008-2009.

STAR OCEAN: THE LAST HOPE is the latest entry in the futuristic space opera RPG series STAR OCEAN. The game is scheduled for a global release in 2009.

THE LAST REMNANT is the first RPG in a new series brought to you by Square Enix’s next generation creators and scheduled for a global release this winter on the Xbox 360.

INFINITE UNDISCOVERY is a collaborative project with fan favourite development studio tri-Ace Inc. (STAR OCEAN and VALKYRIE PROFILE®). The game will be released worldwide in September with the North American version shipping from 2nd September, available across Europe and other PAL territories on 5th September and released in Japan on 11th September.

John Yamamoto, president and chief executive officer of Square Enix Ltd. and Square Enix, Inc. comments, “Square Enix is expanding on its commitment to deliver exciting gaming experiences to our fans all around the world. INFINITE UNDISCOVERY, THE LAST REMNANT and STAR OCEAN: THE LAST HOPE represent significant steps in bringing our titles to a global audience and to make each new release a global event.”

Product Outline


STAR OCEAN: THE LAST HOPE
Official title - STAR OCEAN: THE LAST HOPE
Platform - Xbox 360
Genre - RPG
Release Date - Scheduled for 2009
Copyright Information - © SQUARE ENIX CO.,LTD. All Rights Reserved.
Developed by tri-Ace Inc.
Publisher - Square Enix Ltd.
Developer - tri-Ace Inc.

INFINITE UNDISCOVERY
Official title - @INFINITE UNDISCOVERY
Platform - Xbox 360 Exclusive
Genre - RPG
Release Date - 5th September 2008
Xbox LIVE - Downloadable content planned
Number of Players - 1 (Offline)
Copyright Information - © 2008 SQUARE ENIX CO.,LTD.^Microsoft Corporation. All Rights Reserved. Developed by tri-Ace Inc.
Publisher - Square Enix Ltd.
Developer - tri-Ace Inc.

THE LAST REMNANT
Official title - THE LAST REMNANT
Platform - Xbox 360 / PLAYSTATION® 3
Genre - RPG
Release Date - ( Xbox 360 ) This winter / (PLAYSTATION® 3) TBA
Copyright Information - © SQUARE ENIX CO.,LTD. All Rights Reserved.
Unreal® Engine, Copyright 1998-2008, Epic Games, Inc. All rights reserved.
Publisher - Square Enix Ltd.
Developer - Square Enix Co., Ltd.

Zombie BBQ by Gammick site live

Gammick Entertainment and Enjoy Up present the new microsite of Little Red Riding Hood’s Zombie BBQ and this DS game looks insane.

After finishing with a ferocious wolf, the story ended and the nightmare began. Little "Ready to Rock" Riding Hood and her friend Momotaro face the greatest threat that has ever besieged folk tales.

Go to the Zombie BBQ microsite and discover why Granny has become a horrible green monster, why Pinoccio is now a blood thirsty cyborg, or how Prince Charming woke up Sleeping Beauty… along with her thirst for blood!

Can you save fairy tale land or will you let its creatures live an unhappily-ever-after-life?

Alone in the Dark done and dusted

Atari has announced that development is complete on the highly anticipated action survival game Alone in the Dark, and the game is on track to ship for 3 July here in Australia, 20 June in Europe and 24 June in North America for Xbox 360 and PC. The PS3 version is delayed (as usual) and is presently due to launch sometime in October.

Developed by Eden Games, Alone in the Dark for Xbox 360 and PC aims to change what gamers expect from action games with a ground-breaking reinvention of the classic franchise which debuted in 1992 and created the survival horror genre. Continuing the legacy of innovation of that first game, the new Alone in the Dark re-imagines the genre with engrossing cinematic presentation, compelling gameplay challenges and a thrilling narrative story arc.

We think this looks pretty cool and can't wait for its release.

Resident Evil 5 female character looks good

.... other than her apparent lack of armor. See women in video games don't need armor, in fact it is an unwritten law in gaming that a womans cleavage is equal to numerous points of armor class adds. That's apparently why male characters need more armor, they have no cleavage and butt cracks do not count.

Anyway back to the female character in Resident Evil 5, she looks pretty cool, other than the armor thing, kind of like Lara Croft with more grit, less English lady. She's as yet unnamed, but we're glad she's there. Here's hoping she plays as tough as she looks because I'm still feeling queasy over that dumb bitch that appeared in Resident Evil Umbrella Chronicles.

Neopets Puzzle Adventure - like Puzzle Quest

Puzzle Quest fans (and who isn't!) heads up, this one's for you. The folks over at Infinite Interactive are working on another puzzle title for Capcom - Neopets. If you've heard the term before, Neopets is a popular franchise from Nickelodeon.

Neopets Puzzle Adventure will work in similar fashion to Puzzle Quest in that the gameplay is strategy based mixed with a RPG style. Set to launch on the three systems this holiday season, Neopets Puzzle Adventure takes puzzle solving skills to new levels with a unique Neopets spin. Based on the classic board game, “Reversi”, Neopets Puzzle Adventure, is a robust and fully integrated Neopets experience as it includes 150 different quests across vast Neopian lands, a variety of the most popular customizable Neopets to choose from, and several fun mini-games to add depth and fun to the gameplay. As a bonus to Neopets fans, players will be able to earn codes throughout the game that connect back to the Neopets site by achieving certain goals throughout the DS, Wii or PC game. These unique codes will allow players to unlock exclusive items back in their virtual world on neopets.com.

Why Female Gamers Get Pissed!

As a male gamer you've essentially got it made with regards to character choice in gaming. Other than a pittance of titles that come out that feature female only or female heavy playable character content (Tomb Raider) majority of games will feature male only, or multi male character action.

Upcoming fighting title FaceBreaker is one title that features loads of character choice, but it seems out of the 12 or so fighters, only 2 are female. FarCry 2 by Ubisoft won't feature any female characters, despite having a roster of 9 to choose from.

Despite statistics showing women are playing games more and more and that these titles aren't just the stereotypical puzzle and sim titles, developers continue to stiff the female gamer.

It's damn annoying!!

Toki Tori for WiiWare

Two Tribes, the Dutch game developer behind "Worms: Open Warfare 2" for Nintendo DS, today announces the full availability of Toki Tori for WiiWare. Toki Tori was a launch game for the European/Australian launch of WiiWare and is available in North and South America as of today, June the 2nd.

Toki Tori has been available for two weeks in Europe and Australia and has met with a lot of praise from the online gaming community. Early reviews have also been favorable, with gamesradar.com claiming:

"Fun, clever, friendly and rewarding, it will stimulate the old noggin without ever feeling like hard work. And that's exactly what puzzle games should do."

The gameplay in Toki Tori is a blend of two genres. While it looks like a platform game, it's a puzzle game by heart. Players will have to look and plan ahead carefully while using a variety of items, such as the Telewarp, Freeze-o-Matic and InstantRockTM to name but a few.

Women in Games conference UK

Women in Games press release:
Blitz Games Studios today announced its sponsorship and positioning as a key partner and supporter of the UK’s annual Women in Games (WiG) conference. This year’s event, co-organised with Rare Ltd. will take place at Warwick University from the 10th-12th September.

As part of its sponsorship Blitz is providing a fabulous conference dinner at historic Warwick Castle on the night of 11th September for all attendees.

Kim Blake, Education Liaison Manager for Blitz commented, “We’re proud to be one of the trail-blazing developers working closely with academia to promote the industry to a wider range of potential recruits. Teaming up with Women in Games is one of a number of initiatives that we have planned for this year and one that we feel particularly strongly about. While we have a relatively high number of women at Blitz we are looking to increase that figure for ourselves and the industry as a whole.”

Blitz Games Studios’ talented workforce employs 12% percent of women at its HQ in Leamington Spa across a variety of positions in game development as well as the more traditional HR/admin roles.

Jane Sinclair, an organiser of Women in Games and Associate Professor at the University of Warwick added, “We’re delighted to have the support of Blitz as one of our key sponsors. Women In Games continues to grow as a thought provoking and educational event for both the games industry and academia – we hope to announce an especially strong line up for this year very soon.”

The Women In Games conference encourages research and seeks to promote careers for women within the games industry. Making this career path attractive from a female perspective doesn't just make good business sense, it's vital both commercially and artistically.

A major theme of Women in Games 2008 is exploring ways of encouraging more women to enter games and increase their prominence across the industry, ultimately demonstrating how the female perspective can provide a rich new angle on the gaming experience. Other themes will focus on the latest game research with a particular emphasis on areas that affect, or are affected by, women.

Men are welcome too! Although this conference is concerned with women and games please note that men are also very welcome to attend. The industry needs a meaningful dialogue between the sexes as it moves forward.

For further information, to submit a paper or an idea for a session and to register please visit: Women in Games

Importing Rock Band to Australia

We've been playing RockBand on the Xbox 360 for numerous hours now and we have to say we're mightily impressed with the overall package. We imported Rock Band to Australia in what is probably the simplest way if you're in a lucky position like we were. We had family coming over from the UK... bam.. stick it on the plane as excess baggage. Aside from the fact it went missing at Sydney airport, Rock Band showed up the following day, in one piece and was delivered to our door whew.

If you want to import Rock Band to Australia you do actually have a few options open to you and the only real issue is going to be a whopping postage bill because Rock Band with the instruments comes in a mighty big box. Some Game Trader's stores are allegedly selling the Rock Band kit in Australia and they're selling it for not much more than the converted UK price, so be sure and check your local store. Failing that, there are surprisingly a few on eBay at the moment, shipping from Australia, but remember eBay can be a hive of scum and villainy when it involves the purchase of expensive gaming items that are hard to get.

REMEMBER: If you import from the USA (which is a lot cheaper) you will need an NTSC console to play it on. So really you're better off importing Rock Band into Australia from the UK, since they're a PAL region and it works on your Australian PAL console.

Oddworld will return - Lorne Lanning

This is some good news and we therefore thought, well worth sharing! Boss of Oddworld Inhabitants Lorne Lanning has confirmed the studio is definitely worknig on something Oddworld related... yippeee! A few days ago a guy at Maxis let slip Oddworld Inhabitants were working on a new game (or episodic content?) .. oops.

We are huge fans of the Oddworld universe here at Girl Gamers Australia and can't wait to see what Mr Lanning and Jeff Braun from Maxis have in store for us. Bring it! Bring it on! Oh but please include Munch's wheelchair.. thank you.

Venetica PC & 360 - Daughter of Death

Venetica is said to be a "visually stunning role-play game with a cryptic storyline". We like Venetica because it's a female protagonist. Scarlett is the daughter of death and heroine of Venetica.

In the era of Venetica, Death walks among the living as a flesh & blood being, carrying out the deeds of an ancient council known by a few as Corpus. Each generation of the Corpus is set with the task of selecting the next predecessor of the bringer of death. Unfortunately, the most recent council had unwittingly selected a crafty necromancer who is determined on bringing death and destruction to the world.

This conniving impostor has managed to transform into an undead fiend, which no mortal man can kill. This power-crazed necromancer is hell-bent on destroying the reinstated Death and the council of Corpus. Only one person stands in his way, Scarlett, the daughter of Death.

Up to now she has known nothing of her origins, her powers and the capabilities that she possesses – now she is challenged to learn how to develop and use her powers to save her father and curse the necromancer and his henchmen to the eternal hereafter.

Venetica is set to release next year on PC and Xbox 360.

PictoImage Pictionary for Nintendo DS!

A simple idea can sometimes be the best and we think this sounds pretty cool, assuming it works as well in reality as the boardgame does. PictoImage is coming exclusively to Nintendo DS in August 2008.

PictoImage is a pick up and play puzzle game in which players take turns drawing the image of a word, while competitors race against the clock to guess the word first. The words are generated at random and can be anything from an apple, to a waterfall or a butler! Even if art is not your best subject, the three playable modes means there really is something for everyone and it can actually help you learn to draw!

The Multiplayer Mode in PictoImage allows up to eight players to enjoy a variety of party drawing games. In Picture Pass, for example, a subject will be passed from player to player in an image and the last player guesses the subject based on the last drawing. The single-player and two-player mode gets players guessing an image from a library of 300 drawings created by people of all ages whilst the tutorial mode teaches players how to draw different images from the four main categories of Animals, Objects, Food, and Other. Art has never been so much fun!

Cooking Guide: Can't Decide What To Eat DS

Yeah that is what it sounds like and what with us being a female gaming site, well.. girls.. kitchens.. we're just joshin with you, we actually thought thism ight be interesting to students and that's why we're posting it.. we're not equating women and kitchens, after all I know I prefer gaming to cooking.

Cooking Guide: Can't Decide What To Eat? goes beyond the capabilities of printed cookbooks, Cooking Guide: Can’t Decide What to Eat? will guide each budding chef step by step through all the processes involved in cooking a tasty dish by talking and guiding the player through each recipe. With its numerous international recipe choices, dish search options, videos and simple step-by-step guides to choosing, preparing and cooking a dish, turning even the most hesitant of cooks into confident chefs will be simple. Cooking Guide: Can’t Decide What To Eat? is controlled through the Nintendo DS’s Touch Screen and by the user’s voice through the console’s microphone. It is simple for everyone to use, no matter what their previous experience – either with a Nintendo DS or in the kitchen!

Penny Arcade Adventures Xbox 360

Discover the mysteries of New Arcadia with Gabe and Tycho in “Penny Arcade Adventures: On the Rain-Slick Precipice of Darkness, Episode One,” available on Xbox LIVE Arcade today (21st May, 2008 at 09.00).

The first episodic RPG-Adventure game to grace Xbox LIVE Arcade, “Penny Arcade Adventures: On the Rain-Slick Precipice of Darkness, Episode One” is the result of a collaboration between Hothead Games and Penny Arcade. The first episode sends players to a deranged 1920s comic-book-meets-pulp-horror universe called New Arcadia. Armed with unconventional weaponry, players join forces with Gabe and Tycho of the Startling Developments Detective Agency to make war on bizarre enemies and solve the mysteries hidden deep in the sinister heart of New Arcadia.

“Penny Arcade Adventures: On the Rain-Slick Precipice of Darkness, Episode One” offers players the ability to design their own customisable character, a dynamic turn-based combat system and the ability to transfer your customised character’s stats and inventories to future episodes, or start fresh with each episode. Fans of Penny Arcade will appreciate the authenticity of the game, which features distinctive artwork and characters designed by Mike “Gabe” Krahulik and a story and dialogue written by Jerry “Tycho” Holkins.

Where can I get this game from?
Developed by Hothead Games, “Penny Arcade Adventures: On the Rain-Slick Precipice of Darkness, Episode One” will be available for 1600 Microsoft

WiiWare launches in Australia and Europe

Today marks a momentous occasion on Wii as WiiWare storms onto the console in Australia and Europe. Get set to expect the unexpected as a raft of original, fresh and thrilling games from first and third party developers become available to download directly onto your Wii, through the Wii Shop Channel.

Kicking off WiiWare’s launch in style, six superb new titles from developers across Europe and the world are available to download now! Why not treat yourself to the following:

Dr. Mario & Germ Buster from Nintendo
FINAL FANTASY CRYSTAL CHRONICLES: My Life as a King from SQUARE ENIX
LostWinds from Frontier
Star Soldier R from HUDSON SOFT
Toki Tori from Two Tribes B.V.

BLEACH: Dark Souls for DS

Straight from the press release:
BLEACH: Dark Souls on the Nintendo DS brings an exclusive storyline, expanded cast of playable characters and fast multi-plane fighting action for up to four players via Wi-Fi. Players will also build a power-packed Spirit Card Deck and collect power crystals to augment their spirit card powers on the lower screen and dish out moves that will directly affect their opponent’s gameplay. With a burgeoning cast of 44 characters including the ability to play as Hollows, players can spend hours experiencing furious fighting gameplay and unlocking personal character stories all based on the series’ story arc.

BLEACH is a popular animated series on Cartoon Network. The series follows the life of a 15-year-old boy, Ichigo Kurosaki, who crosses paths with a Soul Reaper and becomes one. The franchise has established itself as a major anime series in Japan, and is now creating a stir in North America. The first season of the show was featured on Cartoon Network’s program, Adult Swim, and received solid ratings in America this past year. The series is poised for a successful second season that began March 2008.

Golden Axe Beast Rider for X360 and PS3

Golden Axe Beast Rider is an all-new take on the legendary Golden Axe arcade game and who didn't love that back in the day! Golden Axe has been brought bang up to date for next gen consoles and is said to hold onto some of that nostalgia of old. Not many titles can actually pull this off so it will be interesting to see if SEGA can do it with this title.

KEY FEATURES:
• Mounted combat: Unleash a barrage of bites, claws and special attacks, as well as furious swings from the Hero’s own weapon.
• On-foot combat: In line with the series’ lineage, on-foot combat plays a key role in this game, allowing players to alternate between light attacks, heavy attacks, blocks, ripostes, magic, and grappling.
• Realistic dismemberment: Not only will limbs and heads fly off in sword combat, the beasts in Golden Axe Beast Rider will be able to tear enemies apart as well.
• Fidelity to the classic games: Environments, magic, enemies, and beasts are designed to evoke fond memories of the original games.
• Robust single-player campaign: Single player adventure offers more than 12 hours of critical-path gameplay; the option to choose from one of three heroes to play as increases replay value.

Final Fantasy Tactics A2 PAL release details

Square Enix Ltd., the publisher of Square Enix interactive entertainment products in Europe and other PAL territories, today announces that FINAL FANTASY TACTICS A2: Grimoire of the Rift will be released across PAL territories on 27th June 2008 exclusively on the Nintendo DS handheld system.

Lead your party to victory across the famous world of Ivalice! FINAL FANTASY TACTICS A2: Grimoire of the Rift turns your Nintendo DS into a tactical battlefield where you can take control of a clan of fighters, mages and more. Summon mighty Scions and Espers to overcome the challenges that await, fulfil your destiny and return home victorious!

With victory comes fame. Earn a reputation for your clan as you win battles and a whole new level of party customisation will open for you to enjoy. The stunning visuals, special effects, and orchestral soundtrack in FINAL FANTASY TACTICS A2: Grimoire of the Rift immerse you in the world, while the soundtrack narrates the famous adventures and triumphs of your clan.

John Yamamoto, president and chief executive officer of Square Enix Ltd. comments, “To our fans’ delight, fun strategy gameplay and an engaging story come together in FINAL FANTASY TACTICS A2: Grimoire of the Rift. Nintendo DS users will be able to enjoy a tactical and epic adventure while exploring the world of Ivalice. This is a deep and absorbing title that I hope everyone will find time to enjoy this summer.”

Secret Agent Clank PSP info

Straight from the Press Release:
Ratchet, Clank, and Captain Qwark return to PSP this summer in Secret Agent Clank, an all new adventure where Clank takes the lead as the titular character. Developed by High Impact Games, the studio that brought Ratchet & Clank®: Size Matters to PSP, Secret Agent Clank brings the humor, quality gameplay and action that fans have come to expect from the franchise back to PSP.

Taking cues from spy classics of the past, Secret Agent Clank presents the Ratchet and Clank universe with a spy themed twist, including Clank as the Galaxy’s greatest undercover agent dressed in a tuxedo. With gadgets ranging from Cufflink Bombs to the Tie-arang and the introduction of Clank-Fu, Clank’s very own style of martial arts, Secret Agent Clank features action oriented moves and gadgets newly upgraded for the franchise. Also new to Clank’s move set are timing based puzzles enabling him to avoid laser fields, struggle to stay alive in a dance of death and subdue enemies with his bare hands. For the first time in the franchise, Clank masters snowboards, speed boats and other vehicles to take part in exciting chases, escape missions and to tail enemies.

In an all new story, players find Ratchet in a maximum security prison for a crime he didn’t commit. The player follows Clank as he dons his secret agent persona in order to prove Ratchet’s innocence. With a combination of stealth, puzzle solving, melee combat and spy weaponry, Clank gathers evidence and follows a trail of clues that takes him to the far reaches of the universe. Ratchet returns as a playable character, receiving weapons from Clank to help him stay alive in prison. Another first for the franchise, Captain Qwark appears as a three dimensional playable character, retelling the tales of Clanks exploits as if he were the champion with the exaggerated, over-the-top humor only Captain Qwark can provide.

Lesbians Love GTA IV?

According to the ladies over at LesbianGamers GTA IV has a deeper message than just run, shoot, kill, maim. Their weekly video show 'Gay Girls Who Game' examined GTA IV in depth on not only a gameplay level, but also a sociopolitical level.

You can see the latest episode of the show at AfterEllen. As you'll also see by the sheer amount of positive comments the review got, the girls may be onto something. The Gay Girls Who Game GTA IV review is thought of as one of the best out there since the game is examined on a deeper level than just graphics, sound etc.

Xbox 360 Wiimote details next week?

You might have all heard the ongoing rumor about the new motion sensing controller by Microsoft? If not, apparently they've had a Wiimote like controller for the Xbox 360 in the works for some months now.

Apparently the new Xiimote (our word not theirs hoho) will be usable in the upcoming Rare title Banjo Kazooie 3. Seems like as early as next week the new controller may well be unveiled to the press - apparently it already has been, they're just under a severe gagging order - if you believe rumor.

As soon as we hear something concrete we will of course let you all know. We really enjoyed the stylish controllers Microsoft did for Scene It, here's hoping if this new motion controller is real it's got a similar feel to it.

Resistance 2 by Insomniac - Looking fabulous!

Sony's PlayStation Day conference had quite a few cool tidbits of information emerge, including some new word about the highly anticipated (well we at GirlGamers Australia can't wait!) sequel to Resistance: Fall of Man.

Resistance 2 will encompass four main areas community, campaign, co-op and competitive. Did someone say co-op?! Oh thank goodness, now if only there's playable female characters, I think my life will be complete!

Resistance 2 is due out around November, so pop it on your Christmas list and hope Santa doesn't get so enthralled in nuking Chimera that he forgets to put it under your tree!

LittleBigPlanet release date

Finally some concrete information on LittleBigPlanet on the PS3, a title you may recall we're REALLY looking forward to. Kaz Hirai was speaking at Playstation Day in London this week when he revealed LittleBigPlanet will be released in October.

LittleBigPlanet is looking great because it's finaly something a little different on the PS3 and something a lot of non gamnig girls might be tempted to give a try (to completely stereotype of course!).

October... yay!! Not too long to wait then, should have GTA IV all tucked away by then.

Bourne Conspiracy demo available

Robert Ludlum's The Bourne Conspiracy game will be available for download on Xbox LIVE Marketplace for the Xbox 360 from Microsoft from today! It will also be available on the PlayStation Network on May 8.

Fans of Robert Ludlum's Jason Bourne franchise will get a peek at the action-packed game play in The Bourne Conspiracy, a blend of brutal combat and unprecedented pace designed to let players become the perfect weapon, Jason Bourne.

We're looknig forward to this game at GirlGamers Australia, here's hoping it's as cool as we're imagining.

The Bourne Conspiracy demo will feature: A look into how The Bourne Conspiracy combines original missions with memorable film moments. Brutal hand-to-hand combat choreographed by the films' fight coordinator and stunt legend Jeff Imada. Shooting using cover, wallwork, and use of destructible objects to distract and destroy enemies. Seamless movement between hand-to-hand combat and gunplay, combined with unique 'escape & evade' gameplay where Bourne must escape deadly situations. A taste of Bourne-style high speed pursuit, with a re-imagining of the escape from Paris sequence through a thrill-a-minute, arcade-racing inspired police car chase.

The Bourne Conspiracy game will ship in North America June 3 and be available worldwide on June 27, 2008 on the Xbox 360 from Microsoft and the PlayStation 3.

B-Boy for PS2 & PSP - Go Demi!

Well we wish Demi from Australia's 'So You Think You Can Dance' were in it, here's hoping the name doesn't mean you won't be able to play as a cool B-Girl! SouthPeak Games has announced today that it will distribute “B-Boy” for PlayStation 2 and PSP (PlayStation Portable) in the U.S this summer. B-Boy allows players to prove their skills as they challenge the world’s greatest breakdancers.

“B-Boy is the only game that gives players the opportunity to become premiere breakers,” said Katie Morgan, Executive Vice President at SouthPeak Games. “The game’s fantastic playability, dead-on authenticity and high production values give it a style all its own. While it remains true to its roots of the scene, it maintains a feel that gamers will love.”

B-Boy sounds pretty cool from that blurb and it features motion-captured moves from expert breakers, so that's no bad thing. If you've still got a PS2 and love B-Boy moves, looks like you'll be krumping your way to the game store later in the year.

You can check out the official site HERE.

Rocketmen: It Came From Uranus

The next chapter of Capcom’s Rocketmen: Axis of Evil is coming! Rocketmen: It Came from Your Uranus, an expansion to the original digitally-distributed title, will be available through Xbox LIVE Arcade and the PlayStation Network Store on Wednesday, May 14 and Thursday, May 15 respectively. For 400 points on Xbox LIVE or $4.95 on PlayStation Network, Rocketmen fans will have access to new maps, weapons, and enemies.

A digitally-distributed add-on to Rocketmen: Axis of Evil

• Players must have already purchased Rocketmen: Axis of Evil in order to play It Came from Uranus
• Continue the Rocketmen saga with your characters from the original game.
• 400 XBLA points / $4.95 PSN Store

3 New Weapons
• Blobber: Shoots blobs of goo at enemies, does damage over time in the part of the ground that it covers.
• Beamer: Shoots lighting at enemies, does high intensity damage.
• Bomber: Shoots grenades instead of bullets; grenades explode on impact doing damage.

2 New Secondary Weapons
• Falcon: Robotic falcon that attacks enemies automatically
• Screw bomb: Rocket that turns into a proximity mine on impact

3 New Levels
• Level 11 - Finding Jane: The player must escape the Saturnian prison mine and reclaim Nick's ship, the Icarus Jane.
• Level 12 - Clear the Asteroids: The player must clear a path for the ship through Saturn's rings
• Level 13 - The Plan: The player must make his way through the Saturnian palace and convince Angelica, leader of the Saturnians, to join the Alliance.

New Enemies
• Saturnian Marine
• Saturnian Elite
• Heavy Mining Terra Scientists
• Terra Rocket Marines
• Saturnian Pit Boss
• Saturnian Asteroid Demolition Machine
• Lord Angelica

We Ski goes gold! - Why isn't it called Wii Ski?

Make every day a snow day as NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc. today announced that We Ski has gone gold for Wii. Yes soon you'll be swooshing down the slopes, without being freezing or wet! Step onto the Wii Balance Board or grab your Wii Remote and Nunchuk and hit the slopes for single or multi player downhill action! Up to four skiers can experience the sweetest mountain runs like never before, as they enjoy We Ski’s highly responsive and intuitive controls. We Ski will carve its way into stores on May 13.

“NAMCO BANDAI has worked to create the most intuitive and responsive skiing game available, giving players a fully immersive experience,” said Todd Thorson, Director of Marketing and Public Relations for NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc. “We want players to feel the fun and intensity of real downhill skiing from the comfort of their living rooms.

We think this looks pretty cool. We'll be checking out Wii Fit some time next week and giving you the lowdown on that and just how well that Balance Board holds up.

Play as Coco in next Crash Bandicoot

Love Crash Bandicoot, but sometimes wish he were a she, you might be in luck. Sierra has announced a new Crash Bandicoot title for Wii, Xbox 360, PS2, DS and PSP. The game will be titled Crash Bandicoot: Mind Over Mutant and sees Crash return with "new abilities and his signature bandicoot hilarity".

Great news for girl gamers though is also the news that you'll apparently be able to play as Coco in this outing for the franchise. Sadly there doesn't appear to be a single player option, but then the game is called Crash Bandicoot and not Coco Bandicoot, so that's to be expected. You'll be able to play as Coco in co-op mode.

Crash Bandicoot: Mind Over Mutant is due out later in the year.

Silent Hill Homecoming sounding cool

Hands up who loves Silent Hill? Hands up who thinks Silent Hill was one of the creepiest games ever! Yes me too. What girl doesn't love the Silent Hill games for a good scare and think about it the game series and the movie that followed all feature some really cool female characters, which let's face it, makes a damn nice change!

On the downside vampire killing title Harker seems to have bit the big one, what with Double Helix hammering away at the next Silent Hill title 'Homecoming'. Me, I'll be glad of another Silent Hill title... bring it!

No Females for Metal Gear Online?

Since we're all about the female gamer (as we are here obviously), this is probably going to rile you ever so slightly. It doesn't look like we female types have been taken into consideration with regards to Metal Gear Online character creation. What a shock I hear you cry!

The trailer is out for MGS character creation and at this stage it looks pretty lame, though they have tried to cover racial bases by including what looks like superficial attempts at the 'main' racial types. Shame they don't appear to have thought about gender--assuming that didn't happen beforehand, but feedback to the clip seems to suggest that isn't the case.

Animal Crossing Wii release date now please!

Not that we're impatient here at Girl Gamers, but we want a release date for Animal Crossing Wii please, this has gone on long enough people. We've been doing a little snooping and have come up with some Animal Crossing Wii facts (if anything in gaming is a fact until the game is released).

The announcement of the new DS liter than Lite at E3 this year... said to be utter bollocks by Nintendo and isn't going to happen. Thing is if Nintendo don't announce something pretty big it's going to be a letdown. So let's assume Nintendo denying the existence of a new DS is true (though they said the DS Lite didn't exist prior to its official announcement so go figure), they need to pull something out of the hat.

Recently the Japanese Club Nintendo calender was sent out and what was the image for December? Animal Crossing, so will it be out at Xmas this year? Probably completely unrelated, but our fingers are crossed. We want a release date for Animal Crossing Wii and we wants it soon!

Seriously Nintendo were banging on about this when the Wii was still known as the Revolution! Back in 2006 it was said you'd be able to send letters to Animal Crossing Wii from your PC or cellphone and the characters in game would receive them (thanks to the magic of WiiConnet24). Come on that was 2006!!!

Wher the hell is Animal Crossing Wii? At what stage is it at and when are we likely to see it. We're sick of waiting and we bet you probably are too.