Xbox Press

After speeding past the finish line last October, “Forza Motorsport 3” is now in the hands of more than 2 million passionate car lovers around the world. To give fans even more reasons to keep behind the wheel with the game, Turn 10 today releases two brand new tracks in the downloadable “Nürburgring Grand Prix Circuit Track Pack.” Having delivered month after month of new car packs since launch, composed of the world’s most unique and sought-after cars, this new track pack will give fans a fresh new locale to earn their racing stripes.

 

Available starting today on Xbox LIVE Marketplace for 400 Microsoft Points, the “Nürburgring Grand Prix Circuit Track Pack” has been meticulously re-created by the team at Turn 10 to reflect the legacy and excitement of the top German grand prix circuit. The track pack includes two layouts of the circuit; the full 3.22-mile circuit with the famous “Schumacher S” corners, and the short 2.24-mile sprint circuit, both of which push car and driver to the limit.

 

Demanding technical precision while offering tremendous opportunities for overtaking rival cars, the “Nürburgring Grand Prix Circuit Track Pack” will show who has the determination and skills to grab the checkered flag. Built in 1984 and updated in 2002, the circuit has been a vital proving ground for some of today’s most elite racing events, including open-wheel, touring car, vintage, and even motorcycle racing throughout its 26-year history.  For six seasons the Grand Prix Circuit has also played host to the 1000km Nürburgring endurance race. The circuit is also co-host to the German Grand Prix, an event that has proven pivotal to the success of many racing careers.

 

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“Forza Motorsport 3” is rated “E” for Everyone and is now available globally. For assets from the “Nürburgring Grand Prix Circuit Track Pack,” visit the Forza Motorsport 3 FTP. For more information on “Forza Motorsport 3,” visit ForzaMotorsport.net.

Dear Xbox LIVE Members,

 

On April 15 we will discontinue the Xbox LIVE service for original Xbox consoles and games, including Xbox v1 games playable on Xbox 360 and Xbox Originals. I want to start by saying this isn’t a decision we made lightly, but after careful consideration, it is clear this will provide the greatest benefit to the Xbox LIVE community.

 

Seven years ago we laid out our vision for the connected console when we launched Xbox LIVE. We believed then that the power of the Internet to connect people would revolutionize living room entertainment. It started with amazing multiplayer games, and we’ve since seen that bet pay off again and again with the launches of Xbox 360, Marketplace, Netflix and powerful social features like Facebook, Twitter and Last.fm. None of this would have been possible without the success of LIVE as a multiplayer gaming network.

 

There’s no greater example of the power of the Xbox LIVE community than the “Halo” franchise. “Halo 2” has had an amazing run on LIVE, with a dedicated community more than five years after launch and well into the next generation of consoles. It has fundamentally changed the way we play video games. And while it’s difficult to see that run come to an end, the “Halo” franchise continues to act as the benchmark for multiplayer gaming in this generation, with “Halo 3,” “Halo 3: ODST” and soon “Halo: Reach” on Xbox 360.

 

Your Xbox LIVE community has grown to 23 million strong. And as we look down the road, we’ll continue to evolve the service with features and experiences that harness the full power of Xbox 360. To reach our aspiration, we need to make changes to the service that are incompatible with our original Xbox v1 games. We will contact the Xbox LIVE members directly impacted by this change and if this includes you, I encourage you to check your LIVE messages and associated e-mail account over the coming weeks for more details and opportunities. We view you as a partner in this process.

 

We’ll share more details soon, but in the meantime I want to assure you that the best is yet to come for Xbox LIVE. I believe we’ll look back on 2010 as a landmark year in gaming and home entertainment, and I couldn’t be more excited about what we have in store with “Project Natal” and LIVE. The LIVE community is the driving force behind everything we do, and it’s because of the community that ground-breaking experiences on Xbox continue to be possible.

 

See you on LIVE,

 

Marc Whitten

Gamertag - Notwen                                       

www.twitter.com/notwen

Download “All You Need Is Love” from Xbox LIVE by January 31, 2010 to help Doctors Without Borders

“There’s nothing you can do that can't be done.” An inspiring lyric first performed by The Beatles more than 40 years ago still rings true today as Microsoft announced a total of $217,780 to date has been raised to benefit Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) through the global sales of “All You Need Is Love” on Xbox LIVE and the limited edition “The Beatles: Rock Band” Xbox 360 consoles. Microsoft, Apple Corps Ltd, MTV Games and Harmonix proceeds from “All You Need Is Love” sales will continue to benefit MSF, so those with New Year’s resolutions to spread love and peace still have a chance to join hands with over 23-million Xbox LIVE members to make a difference.

“We are incredibly grateful for the generosity of people around the world who have contributed to us through the download of “All You Need Is Love” and the sales of the one-of-a-kind Xbox console,” said Dr. Matthew Spitzer, president of the Board of Directors for MSF-USA. “It is because of funds generated from initiatives such as this that MSF was able to respond to the Haiti earthquake so quickly, providing urgent lifesaving medical care immediately in the aftermath.” he added. “With your continued support, we will be able to carry on our medical work in more than 60 countries to assist people whose survival is threatened by violence, neglect, or catastrophe. On behalf of our patients, MSF says ‘Thank You.’”

MSF has been working in Haiti since 1991, responding to emergency medical needs and ongoing medical crises in the country’s capital, Port-au-Prince. Because MSF was already running programs in Haiti when the earthquake struck – with over 800 staff already on the ground—the organization was able to quickly mobilize in the immediate aftermath of the January 12 earthquake. Staff members set up emergency triage centers and began treating people with major trauma wounds, fractures, and crush injuries. An inflatable MSF field hospital equipped with two operating theatres has been set up and is currently running, and MSF cargo planes loaded with emergency personnel and supplies have reached the country. To date, MSF is running 15 hospitals in and outside of the capital, has treated over 6,000 patients, and has conducted nearly 1,000 surgical operations.

MSF’s work, such as their immediate response to the Haiti earthquake, is made possible by unrestricted private donations to the organization. With the support of donors, MSF has been, and will continue to be, able to provide the best possible medical care for the people who need it most.

For every purchase of "All You Need Is Love" from Xbox LIVE between September 9, 2009 and January 31, 2010, the value of 112 Microsoft Points will be donated to MSF. For a complete list of countries where this donation offer will be available, visit www.xbox.com/thebeatlesrockband. In addition to downloading “All You Need Is Love” on Xbox LIVE, which will continue to benefit MSF until January 31, supporters are encouraged to visit the MSF Web site if they are interested in donating: www.doctorswithoutborders.org. More information about Médecins Sans Frontières U.S.A., Inc./Doctors Without Borders is available by contacting them at 333 7th Avenue, 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10001-5004.

For more information, press only:
Breanna Wilson, Edelman, (206) 268-2285, breanna.wilson@edelman.com
Tina Yu, Edelman, (206) 268-2248, tina.yu@edelman.com
Stone Chin, Microsoft, (425) 421-6620, stchin@microsoft.com

PLANO, Texas (January 25, 2010) — The Doritos brand today announced that “Avatar Crash Course” and “Harm’s Way,” unique game concepts created by Jill Robertson of Raleigh, NC and Justin Carpenter of Ogden, Utah, respectively, are the two remaining finalists of the Doritos “Unlock Xbox” challenge. The games now will be developed into full Xbox LIVE® Arcade games, expected to be released in fall 2010 where they will compete head-to-head for the contest’s grand prize –a $50,000 cash reward and an opportunity to consult with Doritos on gaming.

This marks the second time PepsiCo’s Frito-Lay division has brokered a partnership between the Doritos brand and Microsoft to provide video game enthusiasts the creative challenge of a lifetime and the opportunity to play a lead role in developing a video game based on their own ideas and inspiration.

Robertson and Carpenter now will collaborate with Xbox 360 and a renowned development team to turn their visions into reality. Once both games are completed, they will become available on Xbox LIVE Arcade, the premier destination for downloadable games, where one grand prize winner will be crowned based on the number of votes they receive. The entire process will be turned into an online documentary video series that fans will be able to watch by visiting www.UnlockXbox.com.

“We continue to be amazed by the creativity of Doritos fans and feel like we are once again on the brink of creating blockbuster gaming experiences that we hope Xbox fans will enjoy,” said Rudy Wilson, vice president, marketing, Frito-Lay. “It was incredible to see the consumer voting community rally around a wide range of innovative game ideas, and we are thrilled to offer our fans a chance to live their dream and create their own Xbox LIVE Arcade game.”

Both games, along with runner-up game “Thrown,” a concept by Jason Santa Maria of San Diego, CA, were narrowed down from 1,500 unique game ideas submitted in the fall of 2009. Eight quarter-finalists were selected and fans voted online for their favorites based on video pitches made to Microsoft. In early January, the field was narrowed to the top-three contenders, who then traveled to Seattle for one final pitch to executives from Microsoft and Doritos, where the selection of the final two was made.

Robertson’s “Avatar Crash Course” is high-energy fun for everyone. Full of comical mishaps, players maneuver their avatars through ruthless obstacles and crazy levels as they battle to be number one. Great as a casual party game, “Avatar Crash Course” also can be enjoyed in multiplayer mode with up to four friends. Or, go for the challenge of playing solo and try to level up and beat your best times through the campaign, fighting to achieve the best time and get the gold. Either way, you’ll have a chance to get great power-ups, such as shoes to run faster and a belt that improves balance.

Carpenter’s “Harms Way” is a fast-paced, action-packed race that pairs up drivers and snipers, offering various game modes to choose from. As a sniper, players will help their driver win by any means necessary doing anything from blocking an opponent’s path to creating shortcuts that earn nitrous. When you’re the driver, players will want to be aggressive and ram the other cars off the road. Enjoy four-player split screens, online play and plenty of explosions. Unlock Xbox is one of many ways the Doritos brand continues to turn control over to consumers. The brand’s commitment to fan-empowerment began with the Doritos “Crash the Super Bowl” program, which started in 2007 and has turned the brand’s Super Bowl advertising over to its fans every year. In addition, the brand has put consumers in control through a variety of other exciting opportunities, including the Doritos “X-13D Flavor Experiment,” where consumers had a chance to name a new mysterious flavor of chips; “THE QUEST,” which engaged fans in a multi-faceted online and real-world adventure of challenges; and “Doritos Late Night,” which provided Doritos fans ground-breaking virtual musical performances by blink-182 and Big Boi through the power of augmented reality technology where fans could enjoy and control the performances in the palm of their hand.

Frito-Lay North America is the $12 billion convenient foods business unit of PepsiCo (NYSE: PEP), which is headquartered in Purchase, NY. In addition to Frito-Lay, PepsiCo business units include Pepsi-Cola, Quaker Foods, Gatorade and Tropicana.

Learn more about Frito-Lay at the corporate Web site, http://www.fritolay.com/ , the Snack Chat blog, http://www.snacks.com/ and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/fritolay.

PepsiCo offers the world’s largest portfolio of billion-dollar food and beverage brands, including 18 different product lines that each generate more than $1 billion in annual retail sales. Our main businesses – Frito-Lay, Quaker, Pepsi-Cola, Tropicana and Gatorade – also make hundreds of other nourishing, tasty foods and drinks that bring joy to our consumers in over 200 countries.

With more than $43 billion in 2008 revenues, PepsiCo employs 198,000 people who are united by our unique commitment to sustainable growth, called Performance with Purpose.

By dedicating ourselves to offering a broad array of choices for healthy, convenient and fun nourishment, reducing our environmental impact, and fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace culture, PepsiCo balances strong financial returns with giving back to our communities worldwide. For more information, please visit www.pepsico.com.

In order to help the Xbox PR team better serve your needs, we’ve created a brief survey on our news distribution methods and would like your input. The survey should take just a few minutes, and it will help us improve the way we send you the type of news you want.

 

This survey is open to media and analysts globally and can be found at https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/xboxnewssurvey.

 

Please do not publish or discuss the contents of the survey.

 

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For more information, press only:

Mark Van Lommel, Edelman, (323) 202-1074, mark.van.lommel@edelman.com

“Halo” fans, make ready your battle rifles and prepare to step into an expanded fight on Xbox LIVE. Mythic 2 Map Pack, a Game Add-on developed by Bungie for “Halo 3” consisting of three multiplayer maps available previously only on the “Halo 3: ODST” multiplayer disc, is set to arrive on Xbox LIVE on Feb. 2, 2010.

 

The release of the Mythic 2 Map Pack brings the total number of “Halo 3” multiplayer maps to 24. The Game Add-on includes three action-packed maps: Heretic, Citadel and Longshore.

 

Heretic brings players to familiar ground as the “Halo 2” arena Midship returns in “Halo 3.” The stark interior of the Pious Inquisitor might appear austere on first glance, but Heretic’s symmetrical spaces require players to execute complex strategies in order to outplay their opponents.   

 

Citadel may be a long abandoned Forerunner stronghold, but its small, symmetrical confines are far from secure. Two opposing bases offer little safety for players looking for solace. Instead, Citadel forces small squads to stay in constant communication, keep their heads on a swivel, and be prepared to adjust combat tactics in close quarters. 

 

Longshore lacks the commercial ships that once made it a lucrative port for Old Mombasa, but it still bustles with activity. Designed for large-scale combat and well-suited for smaller affairs, Longshore’s multitude of industrial buildings, elevated walks, and open inlets conspire to create a complex battleground tailored for multiple combat scenarios.

 

Mythic 2 Map Pack will be available on Xbox LIVE for 800 Microsoft Points. Mythic Map Pack 1 and 2 are also included in “Halo 3: ODST,” which includes the complete “Halo 3” multiplayer map collection, an all-new campaign and the incredibly popular cooperative experience, Firefight. “Halo 3: ODST” will act as a key to the upcoming “Halo: Reach” multiplayer beta which goes live later this spring.

 

For the latest updates on “Halo: Reach” and the “Halo” universe, visit www.bungie.net and Halo Waypoint on Xbox LIVE or on the official Waypoint site at http://halo.xbox.com/en-us/halowaypoint.

 

Follow the Bungie and Halo Waypoint teams on Twitter at @BungieTweets and @HaloWaypoint or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/Bungie and http://www.facebook.com/HaloWaypoint.

 

Press only (please do not publish the URL): for screenshots of Heretic, Citadel and Longshore, visit: http://edelmanadmin.psni.com/public/Halo%203/Halo%203%20Screenshots/Mythic%202%20Map%20Pack%20

 

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For more information, press only:

Mark Van Lommel, Edelman, 323-202-1074

Ken Zhang, Edelman, 206-505-6565

“Lips: Party Classics” Brings Singing Favorites Home Starting Feb. 26

Lips Music Store on Xbox LIVE also offering soul-soothing melodies from The Miracles and more in January

 

Grab a mic and ring in the new decade with “Lips: Party Classics” starting in February!  The latest title in the “Lips” singing franchise that features the songs everyone loves to sing, will be available on Feb. 26 in select countries in Europe and March 2 in North America, exclusively for Xbox 360.  A first for the franchise, “Lips: Party Classics” will work with popular USB microphones for even more singing flexibility, such as the ones that come packaged with most “Guitar Hero” and “Rock Band” titles. 

 

But you don’t need to wait until then for some new tunes in the New Year! With January’s Game Add-ons, everyone craving some old-school flavor can purchase a throw-back song pack from one of R&B’s legendary groups, The Miracles.  You can also croon along to “Soul Meets Body” by Death Cab for Cutie, reminisce about times gone by with “Homecoming” from Kanye West feat. Chris Martin, and revel in fresh beginnings with “An Ordinary Day” by Vanessa Carlton.  Treat yourself to January’s catchy tracks, available for download at 160 Microsoft Points each, with The Miracles and The Cardigans song packs up for 440 Microsoft Points each.

 

Available on Jan. 1:

Lean On Me - Club Nouveau

Baby When The Light - David Guetta feat. Cozi

Homecoming - Kanye West feat. Chris Martin

 

Available on Jan. 8:

I Second That Emotion - Smokey Robinson & The Miracles

Love Machine (Part 1) - The Miracles

The Tracks Of My Tears - Smokey Robinson & The Miracles

The Miracles Song Pack - Includes I Second That Emotion, Love Machine (Part 1), The Tracks Of My Tears

 

Available on Jan. 15:

Ring My Bell - Anita Ward

Soul Meets Body - Death Cab For Cutie

Mustang Sally - Wilson Pickett

Schnappi, das kleine Krokodil - Schnappi*

Baby, Du siehst gut aus! – Bakkushan*

 

Available on Jan. 22:

Little Lies - Fleetwood Mac

Tripping - Robbie Williams

Ordinary Day - Vanessa Carlton

Available on Jan. 29:

Carnival - The Cardigans

My Favourite Game - The Cardigans

Gypsy Woman (She's Homeless) - Crystal Waters

The Cardigans Song Pack - Includes Carnival, Erase/Rewind, My Favourite Game

 

Debuting early spring 2010 around the world, “Lips: Party Classics” will feature 40 delightfully appealing songs on-disc from artists like the Spice Girls, KISS, Village People, Tiffany, Gloria Gaynor, The B-52’s, Chumbawumba and more.  Avatar integration, unlockable Avatar awards, gameplay challenges and now USB microphone support are just some of the features in “Lips: Party Classics” that will keep the singing party going all night. For more information about “Lips,” visit lips.xbox.com.     

 

*Note: These songs are not available in U.S. or Canada.

The North American International Auto Show kicks off this week, as car manufacturers, professional drivers, and fans from around the world flock to Detroit, Michigan to see what’s revving up in the automotive industry this year and beyond. To mark one of the biggest auto shows in the world, Turn 10 and AutoWeek are partnering to bring some of the year’s best cars to life in “Forza Motorsport 3” with the “AutoWeek Car Show Pack.”

 

Available starting today for 400 Microsoft Points on Xbox LIVE Marketplace, the new downloadable car pack raises the curtain on some of the most exciting new cars for 2010, and adds several elite 2009 racers to the ever-growing “Forza Motorsport 3” car roster, including the 2010 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport, 2010 Ford Shelby GT500 and 2010 Aston Martin One-77.

 

Coveted by car enthusiasts for years, the Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport was first conceived in 1963 by legendary Chevrolet engineer Zora Arkus-Duntov. The 2010 model brings classic style and track-proven performance to the table with an updated 6.2-liter LS3-based V8 engine rated at 430 horsepower, wide-body styling, and an updated suspension setup. The 2010 Ford Shelby GT500 is a must-have in any “Forza” fan’s garage. Featuring a 5.4-liter supercharged V8 that pumps out 540 horsepower, the Shelby GT500 runs on an updated chassis with new suspension and aerodynamic improvements. Additionally, the 2010 Aston Martin One-77 combines modern technology and design with supreme craftsmanship for the ultimate expression of Aston Martin exclusivity. The 7.3-liter V12 pushes the car to well above 200 MPH, which may make it the fastest car in your “Forza Motorsport 3” stable.

 

Now available on Xbox LIVE Marketplace, the “AutoWeek Car Show Pack” gives fans 10 great reasons to continue racing, drifting, tuning, and painting in the new year:

 

1. 2009 Audi RS 6
2. 2010 Ford Shelby GT500
3. 2009 Lotus 2-Eleven
4. 2010 Aston Martin One-77
5. 2010 Porsche Boxster S
6. 2009 Audi R8  LMS Show Car
7. 2010 Pagani Zonda R
8. 2010 Saleen S5S Raptor
9. 2010 BMW Motorsport M6 Coupe
10. 2010 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport

 For fans who like to try before they buy, Turn 10 is offering the 2009 Lotus 2-Eleven as this month’s free car download, so strap in and take the “AutoWeek Car Show Pack” for a test spin!

 

“Forza Motorsport 3” is rated “E” for Everyone and is now available globally. To access and download the new “AutoWeek Car Show Pack” screenshots, visit the Forza Motorsport 3 FTP or Forzamotorsport.net.

 

You’ve wrapped your gifts, put the finishing touches on decorations, and created your version of frosty the snowman in the front yard. Whether you’re spending the Holidays with your (crazy?) extended family, close friends, or just that special someone this year, Xbox LIVE has lots to keep you entertained (and sane) at home during the Holidays. So grab a blanket, a hot cup of cider, and let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!

 

The Gift of Holiday Knowledge

There’s always that one know-it-all in every family, so challenge Aunt Connie or Cousin Johnny to a special Holiday trivia showdown. Tune into a special “1 vs 100 Live” Holiday episode on December 26 at 6:00 pm PT which will feature Holiday-themed trivia, a decked out set, and laughs with Chris Cashman. Didn’t get an Xbox LIVE Gold membership in your stocking this year? No problem. From December 24, 9:00 am PT – December 28, 9:00 am PT, Xbox LIVE Silver members in the US, Canada, UK, Ireland, France and Germany can enjoy the “1 vs 100” premium entertainment experience reserved exclusively for Gold members. If you enjoy making your Avatar bust a move, you can also cast a vote for your favorite dance in the “1 vs 100” Dance Contest (www.avatardancecontest.com) from now until December 26. The winner will be notified on January 4, and have their moves immortalized as an Avatar dance in “1 vs 100.” And, to ring in 2010, tune into another special “1 vs 100 Live” episode on January 1 at 7:00 pm PT, which will test your knowledge of the New Year.

 

The Gift of Rocking Out

Sick of caroling? Do the jingle bell rock! The new Xbox LIVE Music Games Stores open December 22 making it easier than ever to find and choose from more than 1300 tracks for your favorite music games: “Rock Band” (MTV Games), “Rock Band 2” (MTV Games), “The Beatles: Rock Band” (MTV Games),“Lego Rock Band” (Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment), “Guitar Hero® 5” (Activision), “Guitar Hero® World Tour” (Activision/Red Octane), “Band Hero™” (Activision), “Lips” (Microsoft Game Studios), and “Lips: Number One Hits” (Microsoft Game Studios). There’s no need to argue between Metallica and the Beatles – search, sort, and preview clips from songs in one convenient place on the new Music Marketplace on Xbox LIVE.

 

The Gift of Fame

We all need a little action (and humor) to snap us out of the Holiday dinner coma. On Sunday, December 27 from 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm PT, funny man and actor, Dane Cook, will play against Xbox LIVE Gold members in “Call of Duty®: Modern Warfare® 2” (Infinity Ward/Activision.) If you want to go head-to-head with the comedian, then Oscar Mike and send a friend request to the Gamertag DCook GwF. Be on LIVE 30 minutes (6:30 pm PT) before the Game with Fame session starts and you might receive an invite to play. It can be your claim to fame this Holiday. For more information, please visit:

http://www.xbox.com/en-US/community/calendar/gamewithfame/2009/1227-danecook.htm

 

With so much entertainment to keep your Holiday merry and bright, remember to dress your Avatar to the nines (or in an ugly Holiday sweater) and check out Major Nelson on Twitter from now until December 31 as he unveils daily deals that will be sure to bring you cheer.

 

Happy Holidays from Xbox LIVE! Assets for Xbox LIVE Music Games Stores can be found here: http://edelmanadmin.psni.com/public/Xbox%20LIVE%20Music%20Games%20Stores/

For more information, press only:

Adam Zukor, adam.zukor@edelman.com, 206-268-2247

EDITOR’S NOTE: The ESRB requires that all trailers with Mature ("M") or Adults Only ("AO") content MUST be behind an ESRB compliant age-gate with NO EXCEPTIONS. See the attached letter for more details.

You saw it first at the SPIKE Video Game Awards on Dec. 12, now relive the explosive moments from the first official “Crackdown 2” gameplay trailer. Fans eager for the ultimate adrenaline rush will find their home in “Crackdown 2,” releasing exclusively on Xbox 360 in 2010.

In the trailer, Pacific City’s new generation of Agents takes to the streets with obliterating force. In an explosive ballet of destruction, Agents work in tandem to bring down the Freaks and any others who threaten Pacific City by any means possible. Both seasoned and newer Agents should be on the lookout for important details hidden in the footage to get better prepared for the upcoming rumble.

“Crackdown 2,” the sequel to 2007’s action blockbuster, will redefine multiplayer action with its 4-player co-op and 16-player competitive multiplayer combat over an immense playground of vertigo-inducing verticality: Pacific City.

Been out of commission or never experienced the first “Crackdown”? Don’t fret. Head on over to Xbox LIVE and download “Crackdown” via Games on Demand for only 1,600 Microsoft Points. The “Getting Busy” Game Add-on for “Crackdown” is also available for 400 Microsoft Points.

Your Agent is back online. Get to work.

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To download the trailer, visit: http://edelmanadmin.psni.com/public/Crackdown%202/

EDITOR’S NOTE: The ESRB requires that all trailers with Mature ("M") or Adults Only ("AO") content MUST be behind an ESRB compliant age-gate with NO EXCEPTIONS.

 

Step into the boots of a Spartan III and prepare for the first look at “Halo: Reach,” the highly anticipated prequel to the “Halo” trilogy from acclaimed developer Bungie coming fall 2010. The very first “Halo: Reach” video had its worldwide debut last night during the Spike TV Video Game Awards by actress Tricia Helfer, offering gamers a taste of the story to come.

 

Taken from part of the game’s opening cinematic, the video provides the first look at the story of “Halo: Reach,” which introduces players to Noble Team, a squad of battle-hardened Spartan soldiers. “Halo: Reach” charts the story of Noble Team in their heroic stand to defend the planet Reach, its people and secrets against a ruthless assault by an alien collective known as the Covenant.

 

“Halo: Reach” is being published by Microsoft Game Studios and launches in the fall of 2010 exclusively on Xbox 360. The “Halo: Reach” multiplayer beta is coming spring 2010, which players can access exclusively through “Halo 3: ODST.”

 

 The “Halo: Reach” video is available now on Xbox LIVE and Bungie.net. Press only (do not publish the URL): for .wmv files and a screen shot from the “Halo: Reach” video, go to: http://edelman.psni.com/public/Halo%20Reach/

 

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For more information, press only:

Mark Van Lommel, Edelman, (323) 202-1074, mark.van.lommel@edelman.com

Ken Zhang, Edelman, (206) 505-6565, ken.zhang@edelman.com

 

If the weather outside is frightful (or blistering hot in the Southern Hemisphere), take a break indoors and check out the endless entertainment Xbox LIVE offers you and your family this December.

 

Fight the urge to sneak a peek at your presents from the family and let Xbox LIVE Marketplace fill your December with holiday surprises. Starting December 18 through December 31, enjoy limited time, one-day discounts on select Xbox LIVE Marketplace content every day – games, movies, blockbuster game add-ons, holiday themes, you name it! Available to all Xbox LIVE Gold and Silver members, everyone can celebrate the countdown to the New Year with a special offer from Xbox LIVE! 

 

Even your Avatar Gets a Tacky Holiday Sweater

On December 10, get your Avatar in the holiday spirit with specialty items including an ugly holiday sweater and even a free holiday gift for your Avatar to unwrap! And make sure they’re dressed to impress with signature tokidoki gear too, including an assortment of trademark tees and a pair of tokidoki themed rain boots. Wishes really do come true during the holidays! Dress your Avatar in magical Disney apparel when "Disney Classics" releases on Avatar Marketplace December 24.

 Here comes Santa Claus with Unbeatable Deals of the Week…

  

Deal of the Week continuously delivers more fun to Xbox LIVE Gold Members for less points, so take advantage of these supreme deals each week in December.

 

Week of December 7:

“Fallout® 3 Operation Anchorage” Game add-on (Bethesda) | Japan: 560 Microsoft Points, rated M for Mature by the ESRB

 

Week of December 14:

“Lips: Coldplay Track Pack” (Microsoft Game Studios) | Worldwide except Japan and India: 240 Microsoft Points, rated E for Everyone by the ESRB.

 

“Pinball FX” (ZEN Studios) | Japan: 400 Microsoft Points, rated E for Everyone by the ESRB.

 

Week of December 21:

“Shadow Complex™” (Epic/Chair Entertainment) | Worldwide: From the producers of Gears of War comes “Shadow Complex,” a modern and masterful side-scrolling shooter. Winner of nine ‘Best of E3’ awards, “Shadow Complex” combines the quality and depth of a retail title with the accessibility you love, available exclusively on Xbox LIVE Arcade. December 21 through December 27, get “Shadow Complex” for 800 Microsoft Points, a 33% savings. “Shadow Complex” is rated T for Teen by the ESRB.

 

Week of December 28:

“The Maw” (Twisted Pixel) | Worldwide: 400 Microsoft Points, rated E for Everyone by the ESRB.

 

Make your holidays bright with Xbox LIVE Arcade!

 

Xbox LIVE Arcade delivers quality downloadable games at the best value to light up your holidays.

 

“Alien Breed Evolution (Episode 1)” (Team 17) | December 16 | Worldwide: The game features incredible fidelity and attention to detail throughout, awesome audio effects and an engaging single player narrative. The pulsating story takes the game's hero through an intense ride through a stricken craft, onto a mysterious, ageing hulk ship and beyond. In addition to the explosive single player story, the game also offers a relentless, action packed, two-player co-operative battle mode for online and offline local action with a number of difficulty modes to challenge all skills. Available for 800 Microsoft Points, “Alien Breed Evolution (Episode 1)” is rated T for Teen by the ESRB.

 

“Trials HD BIG PACK!” (Redlynx) | December 23 | Worldwide : Fans of “Trials HD,” one of this summer’s hottest downloadable games, can get ready for more fun and insane challenges with the add-on, “Trials HD BIG PACK!” Rev your engines with 35 new racing and skill tracks, over 50 new crazy physics objects, tournaments, new achievements worth 50 extra gamerscore, and more. “Trials HD BIG PACK!” releases December 23 on Xbox LIVE Arcade at 400 points and is rated T for Teen by the ESRB.  Fasten your helmet and prepare for serious bruises!

 

Chestnuts, cocoa, snowflakes…and plenty of titles to choose from on Games on Demand

Games on Demand titles are available for quick, convenient download 24x7. Check out some of this month’s top titles to add to your collection.

“Crackdown” (Microsoft Game Studios) | December 1 | Worldwide except Germany, Japan and Korea: Prepare for the upcoming release of “Crackdown 2” by revisiting the award-winning predecessor, “Crackdown.” You’ll take on the role of judge, jury and executioner as you restore peace by any means necessary in Pacific City, a crime-ridden urban center primed to explode and ready for you to explore. Enter the vast and fully explorable world as you clean up the streets the only way you know how. Your way.

“Disney Bolt” (Disney) | December 8 | North America and Europe: Join Bolt and Penny as they travel the globe on a dangerous mission to save Penny's dad from the evil Dr. Calico.

 “Viva Piñata: Party Animals” (Microsoft Game Studios) | December 15 | Worldwide except Japan: Compete in a variety of zany battles and races in the social party game Viva Piñata®: Party Animals. Control the fame, fortune, and destiny of all your favorite characters from Viva Piñata: Fergy Fudgehog, Paulie Pretztail, Franklin Fizzlybear, and Hudson Horstachio. It's party time!

“Lost Planet™: Extreme Condition Colonies Edition” (Capcom Entertainment, Inc.) | December 22 | Worldwide except Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and India: Lost Planet™: Extreme Condition Colonies Edition provides explosive action for both offline and online players, and allows cross-platform play between Xbox 360 and PC, all in time to prepare for the anticipated release of the upcoming “Lost planet” sequel.

 

“Devil May Cry® 4” (CAPCOM Co., Ltd.) | December 22 | Worldwide except Japan: “Devil May Cry 4” immerses you in a gothic supernatural world, where a new protagonist clashes with a familiar hero. As the new leading man Nero, unleash incredible attacks and non-stop combos using a unique new gameplay mechanic with his powerful "Devil Bringer" arm.

“Gears of War” (Microsoft Game Studios) | December 29 | Worldwide except Japan and Germany: “Gears of War” fans, check out the original title that started it all! Developed by Epic Games, “Gears of War” thrusts gamers into a deep and harrowing story of humankind’s epic battle for survival against the Locust Horde, a nightmarish race of creatures that surface from the bowels of the planet. Players take on the role of Marcus Fenix, a disgraced war hero who seeks personal redemption as he leads his fire team against the Locust onslaught. “Gears of War” unites breathtaking visuals with classic, emotional storytelling and a revolutionary tactical combat system, engrossing the gamer in a horrifying epic story of war and survival.

 

* Xbox LIVE Gold membership required for multiplayer

 

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Interested in hearing more of what’s to come on Xbox LIVE? Looking for more information on what you’ve read about today? In the spirit of Xbox LIVE community, we’d love to hear from YOU! Keep an eye out for news from us over the next couple months, and let us know what you think. Too much information? Not enough? We’re working toward a new way to deliver the hottest Xbox LIVE news to the community at the start of the new year, so stay tuned for more details, and feel free to send your thoughts and suggestions to:

 

Jessie DiMariano, Edelman, 206-268-2211, jessie.dimariano@edelman.com

Leslie Felarca, Edelman, 206-268-2220, leslie.felarca@edelman.com

 

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‘Tis the season… to drive some of next year’s dream cars in this generation’s highest-rated racing game, only on Xbox 360. Just over a month after the title’s momentous launch, “Forza Motorsport 3” has sold more than one million units worldwide. Now Turn 10 is spreading the holiday cheer with the “Hot Holidays” Car Pack, available today on Xbox LIVE Marketplace for 400 Microsoft Points.

 

The “Hot Holidays” Car Pack features some of the world’s most anticipated super cars and purpose-built race cars of 2009 and 2010, including first-ever virtual test drives of the new Ferrari 458 Italia and the latest Nissan GT-R Spec V. The complete “Hot Holidays” Car Pack list includes:

 

1.                   2010 Ferrari 599XX

2.                   2010 Mercedes SLR Stirling Moss

3.                   2010 Lamborghini LP6700-4 SV

4.                   2010 Porsche Panamera Turbo

5.                   2010 Ferrari 458 Italia

6.                   2010 Jaguar XFR

7.                   2010 Audi S4

8.                   2009 Aston Martin #007 AMR Lola

9.                   2009 Audi #2 Sport Team Joest R15 TDI

10.               2010 Nissan GT-R Spec V

 

After selling more than one million units in its first month at retail, “Forza Motorsport 3’s” community and fan base is more active on Xbox LIVE than ever. The Forza community has collectively logged over 6.6 million man hours playing online in more than 64 million connected sessions while driving over 590 million miles (952 million kilometers) in the game to date. That’s equal to more than three trips from the Earth to the Sun and back!

 

While the December “Hot Holidays” Car Pack is great news for the Forza community, car lovers can expect yet another car pack to coincide with the North American International Auto Show in Detroit early next year. Racing onto Xbox LIVE Marketplace on Jan. 12, 2010, this new pack will add more of the latest and greatest cars to the ever-growing “Forza Motorsport 3” roster. For more information on what “Forza Motorsport 3” has in store, stay tuned to Forzamotorsport.net as we reveal each of the January cars via exclusive community spy shots.

 

Finally, true car aficionados won’t want to miss the Limited Edition Fanatec® Porsche 911 Turbo S racing wheel – the perfect complement to the realistic “Forza Motorsport 3” simulation experience. For more information, visit: Fanatec.de.

 

“Forza Motorsport 3” is rated “E” for Everyone and is now available globally. To access and download the new “Hot Holidays” Car Pack gameplay video and screenshots, or other in-game assets, visit the Forza Motorsport 3 FTP or Forzamotorsport.net.

 

On December 15, Games for Windows – LIVE will evolve beyond LIVE gaming and include a portal for accessing and downloading your favorite LIVE-enabled titles…courtesy of Games on Demand. Games on Demand for Windows lets you easily purchase and download great titles from the Games for Windows – LIVE library right from your computer, and re-install your games whenever you want, wherever you want. Games for Windows – LIVE now gives you the flexibility to access and play your games where and when you want, all straight from your PC.

 

 “With Games on Demand, we didn’t just want to create a cut-and-paste version of existing digital distribution services,” said Mike Ybarra, general manager of LIVE Engagement Services. “We challenged ourselves to deliver an integrated platform that takes full advantage of the unique capabilities offered by the LIVE service. Our goal has always been to create a seamless online gaming experience for the Windows community, and Games on Demand is a great step toward that end.”

 

The launch lineup will include recent hits like “Resident Evil 5” (Capcom), “Red Faction: Guerrilla” (THQ), and “Battlestations: Pacific” (Square Enix), as well as new exclusive LIVE-enabled versions of popular digital games such as “World of Goo” and “Osmos,” distributed by Microsoft Game Studios. All games can be purchased either by credit card or with Microsoft Points. Games on Demand for Windows will be available in markets that currently have the Games for Windows – LIVE service. Microsoft is also offering an updated LIVE-enabled version of “Tinker,” formerly an exclusive Windows Vista Ultimate Extra, as a completely free download from the Games for Windows – LIVE client.

 

“Connected digital experiences are defining the continued growth of Windows as a gaming platform,” said Chuck Osieja, creative director of Games for Windows – LIVE. “Today marks Microsoft’s return to delivering Windows games built on unique LIVE experiences.”

 

 Games for Windows – LIVE delivers a truly connected experience for PC gamers, letting you enjoy a common Gamertag, Gamerscore and unified friends list that carries across both supported PC games and the Xbox 360 console. The service also offers single and multiplayer Achievements, voice chat, text messaging and TruSkill online matchmaking. To download the Games for Windows – LIVE client visit www.gamesforwindows.com/live.

 

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Michael Eggerling, Edelman, 206-268-2270, michael.eggerling@edelman.com

Adam Zukor, Edelman, 206-268-2247, adam.zukor@edelman.com

Sing Together at the Top of Your Lungs with Singing Favorites in “Lips™: Party Classics”

The newest “Lips” will bring everyone together with irresistible favorites from Tiffany to the Village People, while December’s soul classics and holiday tunes warm up your holidays

 

Who needs the lyrics? You know them by heart; everyone knows them by heart … more or less. They are the songs that get us out of our seats and into the moment, they get the party started. Microsoft Game Studios and iNiS will capture the magic of these songs in “Lips: Party Classics,” the newest title to join the “Lips” singing sensation exclusive to Xbox 360. Available worldwide in spring 2010, “Lips: Party Classics” will let party goers experience their favorite tunes from their beloved karaoke venues right in their own living rooms.

 

Let the festivities commence with the wide selection of 40 peppy, festive, dramatic and exhilarating songs included in “Lips: Party Classics.” These are the songs you love to sing even if the singing itself is so bad it’s good – these tunes will unite friends and family with fun and spontaneity.  Just a glimpse of the full song list includes favorites such as:

·         “Love Shack” by The B-52's

·         “Tubthumping” by Chumbawamba

·         “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor

·         “Rock And Roll All Nite” by KISS

·         “Wannabe” by Spice Girls

·          “I Think We’re Alone Now” by Tiffany

·         “Y.M.C.A.” by Village People

 

Lips Jukebox extends the “Lips” fun

 

Right now, make your Facebook photos sing with the new Lips Jukebox. Available now for free at www.xbox.com/lipsjukebox , this easy-to-use online tool puts a pair of singing lips on your photos transforming them into a mini music video starring you and your best friends and family. Choose from classic tracks such as “Barbie Girl” by Aqua or “Love Fool” by The Cardigans.

 

“Lips” December Game Add-ons bring the holiday cheer

For those not-so-silent nights, invite your loved ones over and give them the gift of song with “Papa Was A Rollin’ Stone” by The Temptations, “Right Round” by Flo Rida, “Think” by Aretha Franklin, “Blister In The Sun” by Violent Femmes and more.

Then while you’re stringing up your garlands, don’t forget to add a variety of great holiday tunes including “White Christmas” by Bing Crosby, “Santa Baby” by Kylie Minogue and “Hanukkah Blessings” by Barenaked Ladies to your “Lips” collection that are sure to light up your nights with fun!  For the full list of December Game Add-ons and festive songs, please visit www.xbox.com/lips. 

 

“Lips” songs for everyone

 

Following the fall releases of “Lips: Number One Hits” worldwide, and “Lips: Deutsche Partyknaller” and “Lips: Canta En Español” in select regions, the “Lips” library is as diverse as the imagination, so that everyone can find the perfect songs to perform. These new titles coupled with the original “Lips” and the extensive library of “Lips” Game Add-on songs available on Xbox LIVE Marketplace and the in-game Get Music Store, are sure to keep the singing going until dawn.

 

Avatar and Xbox LIVE features add personal touches the singing experience with Avatar integration and Avatar Awards that allow singers to perform as their virtual selves in the game.  With “Lips: Party Classics,” players can earn fashionable Avatar Accessories through in-game accomplishments to customize their wardrobe and flaunt their unique style to friends on Xbox LIVE. More information on “Lips” is available at www.xbox.com/lips.

 

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Angella Wong, Edelman, (323) 202-1045, angella.wong@edelman.com 

Michelle Fang, Edelman, (323) 202-1426, michelle.fang@edelman.com