Prey Officially (Finally) Announced
Dallas-based 3D Realms has finally confirmed the development of Prey after years of speculation that the original IP was already being developed by Human Head Studios. Prey is a first person shooter for PC and a next-generation console system. Human Head has worked on the project under the direct supervision of 3D Realms.
“The initial concept for Prey had been incubating for a while, waiting for the right opportunity to come along,” said George Broussard, president of 3D Realms. “We jumped at the chance to create this game with a talented developer like Human Head Studios and next-generation technology like the Doom 3 engine.”
Scott Miller, CEO of 3D Realms, added, “Prey is special for many reasons, including several new and original gameplay features and a tightly integrated story that packs an emotional punch, unlike other first person shooters.”
Prey will be exclusively showcased at this year’s E3 Expo in a movie theater-style exhibition. For the world exclusive first details on the game, look for PC Gamer’s June issue featuring Prey as its cover story, arriving on newsstands in early May. Prey is currently planned for a 2006 release.
Game Industry Gears Up for E3 Expo 2005
More than 1,000 computer and video games and related products will make their debut at the 11th annual Electronic Entertainment Expo 2005 (E3Expo) May 18 – 20. The show, which is completely sold out, will host more than 400 interactive entertainment companies at the Los Angeles Convention Center.
The trade-only show has the power to boost or crush a game or accessory. product launching pad for the global interactive entertainment industry. More than 4,000 (81 percent) of all products shown at E3 will be available on store shelves this holiday season. While consumers cannot attend E3Expo 2005, they can visit the show virtually through E3Insider (http://www.e3insider.com).
By Crom! Age of Conan – Hyborian Adventures In Development
Norwegian publishing giant Funcom is hard at work on Age of Conan – Hyborian Adventures, an online action role-playing game scheduled for the first half of 2006. According to the release, the game will be “a mix of a deep, story-driven single-player experience and a massive and brutal multiplayer end-game,” to bring the age of Conan to life.
In Age of Conan, players will encounter a dark, lush, violent and sinful universe. In a world filled with cruel gods, mythical creatures, lost civilizations and a struggling human race, the mighty barbarian has finally seized the throne as king of Aquilonia. But Conan’s rule is on the brink of chaos, spiraling towards the doom of ancient evils. In this twisted fantasy world, dark magic and brutal combat lurks around every corner, and each man and woman must carve their own unique destiny under Conan’s reign.
The “real combat” engine is a new multi-point melee system which allows players to swing their weapons where they direct it, in real-time. That should let players feel like they are on the battlefield. More information and screenshots from the game can be found on the official website at www.ageofconan.com.
Connery to Reprise Bond Role in Game
Sir Sean Connery will step back into the role of James Bond – at least on the small screen. Electronic Arts plans for the latest installment in the James Bond video game franchise, From Russia With Love, will star the Academy Award-winner. The game is set to ship this fall on the PlayStation 2, Xbox, and GameCube.
From Russia With Love, the game, will be based on the classic Bond film but will also feature some new plot twists, gadgets and characters. Connery, appearing in his first-ever video game, lent his voice and likeness to the project.
The Guildhall at SMU is currently an intense 18-month certificate program in digital game development. Beginning July 2005, the program expands to 22-months and will also offer a Masters of Interactive Technology in Digital Game Development. The curriculum was designed by expert teachers working with leaders in the gaming industry to provide students with a solid foundation in game development.
