The in-ear design isolates distracting background noise which could potentially impact on game play and the PC 300 is an all-round proposition allowing for game play, listening to music files when taking a break from the action, or staying in contact with fellow Clan members.

Travelling Light

Every gamer has a favorite headset for LAN events and conventions but these can be bulky and heavy. The PC 300 G4ME is for those who don’t want to carry extra weight, but still want Sennheiser performance and quality, in a package not much larger than a matchbox.

Great Sound

The PC 300 uses capsules from Sennheiser’s famed CX 300-II and Sennheiser Communications adds the quality microphone and in-line volume.

The supplied soft silicone ear sleeves come in three sizes, guaranteeing a comfortable and close fit, which makes for excellent bass, essential for gamers and music lovers.

The in-ear design helps cut out distracting background noise, so it’s perfect at noisy LAN parties.

Plug & Play

The PC 300 G4ME uses two 3.5mm plugs to connect to PCs & laptops, one for the headphones and the other for the microphone. For easy use with any PC or music device, the package includes a quick-disconnect two-meter extension cable.

For iPod / MP3 usage, just connect the headphone jack.

The PC 300 and extension lead pack safely away in the supplied carry pouch.

Features:

• In-ear headphone capsules for shielded acoustics and great sound

• Three sizes of soft silicone ear sleeve for a perfect fit

• Sensitive omni-directional microphone

• In-line volume control

• Sleek and lightweight design – great for traveling

• Travel pouch protects headset and the extension cable

• Two-meter extension cable included

• Plug n play

Specifications

• Headphones
  • Frequency Response: 18 – 22,000Hz
  • Impedance: 16Ω
  • Sound pressure level: 106dB

• Microphone
  • Frequency Response: 80 – 15,000Hz
  • Pick-up pattern: Omni-directional
  • Impedance: ~2.2KΩ
  • Sensitivity: -32dBV /Pa

Find out more about the at the Sennheiser PC 300 at the official website.

Today we received some brand new images from the range, check them out below.

For more information on the Mad Catz MW2 accessory range, check out their full announcement.

Available in the UK now at an SRP of £1,999, the VX5 comes in either a Dark Graphite Grey, or Ivory White finish on a robust chassis design that encapsulates the nonpareil styling and raw performance of the revered Lamborghini Reventón supercar.

Key Features

Looks

• Classic good looks with a design inspired by Lamborghini Reventón.

• Official Lamborghini badge – the seal of approval.

• Select from Dark Graphite Grey or Ivory White colours.

Performance

• Excellent stereo audio output from bespoke Altec Lansing mesh speakers and subwoofer set in designer styling.

• Superb video quality with 16” HD LCD display fed by NVIDIA GeForce GT 130M Graphics.

• World’s first ceramic glossy touchpad and genuine leather palm rest.

• State-of-the-art Light sensor technology controlling a backlit keyboard.

• Auto Focus 2.0M pixel Web Camera with rare Sapphire Crystal Lens.

• Connectivity through an Intel® Wireless Wi-Fi Link 5100 A/B/G/N.

• Bluetooth 2.1 capabilities.

• Blu-ray Combo Drive for versatile playback.

• 4 x USB Ports and 8-in-1 Card Reader.

• HDMI, E-SATA and IEEE1394 Firewire ports.

Power

• Intel Core 2 Quad Processor Q9000.

• TwinTurbo mode to boost processor and graphic performance.

• A massive 1 Terabyte (2 x 500GB) HDD Storage.

Outstanding Quality

• 2 Year Global Collect & Return Warranty.

• SRP £1,999 inc VAT.

For more information about the ASUS-Lamborghini VX5, check out the official ASUS website.

Sony announced that it would introduce a 3D compatible BRAVIA LCD TV in 2010. Incorporating frame sequential display and active-shutter glass Systems(1), Sony’s proprietary high frame rate technology will enable the reproduction of full High Definition(2) high-quality 3D images, and will form the centerpiece of Sony’s 3D entertainment experience for the home.

In addition to 3D compatible BRAVIA LCD TVs, Sony will also develop 3D compatibility into many more of its devices, such as Blu-ray Disc products, VAIO and PlayStation 3, to provide a multitude of ways in which 3D content – from 3D movies to stereoscopic 3D games – can be enjoyed in the home.

In the growing industry of 3D cinema, Sony has supported and driven the expansion of 3D by providing a wide variety of professional equipment for the shooting, production and screening of movies in 3D. The number of digital 3D screens is increasing rapidly, and is expected to reach 7,000 by the end of 2009(3). In addition to 3D movies, Sony’s range of professional 3D products is also driving the growth of 3D production and distribution across a range of entertainment industries, from theatre and music performances to sport and beyond.

Embracing the ‘make.believe’ philosophy, which signifies the company’s ability to “turn ideas into reality”, Sony will strive to further enhance synergies across its group companies. Sony will leverage its wealth of technology and engineering resources spanning both professional and consumer markets to bring the optimum 3D viewing experience to the home, from 2010 and beyond.

On the Sony booth visitors will be treated to a showcase of stunning 3D imagery, made possible by the high frame rate, full 1080P High Definition BRAVIA TV. The presentation highlights the breadth of Sony’s video games, movies, football action and sport entertainment content that will make 3D such a compelling experience and will bring 3D Home in 2010.

Sony also announced today its new group-wide brand message, ‘make.believe’ (pronounced: make dot believe).

(1). A method of 3D display whereby the television set alternates the Image for the left and right eye, and glasses open and shut in sync with the Image on the screen.

(2). Displays 1,920×1,080 pixels image per eye

(3). Source: Screen Digest (Approx. as of July, 2009)

Developed by Infinity Ward and set for worldwide release by Activision Publishing, on November 10, 2009, Modern Warfare 2 is the sequel to the best-selling first-person action game in history, Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare.

The products expected to ship as part of the range include:

• Modern Warfare 2 Combat Controller – Xbox 360

Complete with a host of features designed to customize the in-game experience, the Modern Warfare 2 Combat Controller has Rubber Grips and a soft-touch finish for extended gaming sessions.  Featuring two unique buttons located on the rear of the Controller, players can re-map Action Button or Thumbstick commands empowering players to shift melee or sprint to the rear buttons in order to maintain full motion control on the analog sticks.  Immersive Analog ThumbStick Backlighting enhances the in-game atmosphere while Dual Vibration Feedback allows the user to experience every shot and explosion.  Lastly, the fully braided connection cable provides a robust and latency free connection with the console.

MSRP: $49.99

• Modern Warfare 2 Throat Communicator – Xbox 360

Based on authentic military design, the Modern Warfare 2 Throat Communicator allows gamers to comfortably communicate with teammates and other Xbox LIVE players.  Fashioned in authentic graphics, the unique microphone design reduces background noise and allows gamers to clearly communicate with each other, bringing them closer to the field ops experience.  The Throat Communicator is fully compatible with the official Microsoft controller as well as the Mad Catz Modern Warfare 2 Combat Controller.

MSRP: $29.99

• Modern Warfare 2 Faceplate and Console Skinz – Xbox 360

Featuring custom Modern Warfare 2 artwork, both the highly collectible Controller Faceplate and Console Skinz allow gamers to customize their Xbox 360 and official controller.  Depicting official in-game art, the Console Faceplate attaches simply and safely, transforming your console in seconds and the removable Console Skinz wrap around the sides of the Xbox 360, providing a fully immersive themed landscape.

MSRP: $29.99

• Modern Warfare 2 Wireless Combat Controller – PS3

Modern Warfare 2 Wireless Combat Controller for the PlayStation 3 utilizes a secure 2.4 GHz wireless link to connect with the console for accurate wire-free action.  Featuring two unique buttons located on the rear of the Controller, players can re-map Action Button or Thumbstick commands empowering players to shift melee or sprint to the rear buttons in order to maintain full motion control on the analog sticks.  The Controller features Immersive Analog ThumbStick Backlighting and an internal Rechargeable Battery that allows for charging directly from the console’s USB port and provides up to 60 hours of game play from a single charge.

MSRP: $49.99

• Modern Warfare 2 Wireless Headset with Bluetooth Technology – PS3

Sophisticated, discrete and fashioned with Modern Warfare 2 graphics, the Headset for PLAYSTATION 3 allows for wire-free communication with teammates and PlayStation Network (PSN) users.  Featuring a high-quality, noise-reducing microphone, ideal for frantic game play, the Headset utilizes Bluetooth 2.0 wireless technology, and operates at a range of up to 30 feet from the console.

MSRP: $39.99

• Modern Warfare 2 Controller Faceplates – Xbox 360 & PlayStation 3

Depicting official artwork from Modern Warfare 2, the highly collectible Controller Faceplate allows gamers to customize their official Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 controllers in style.  Highly durable and featuring a high-gloss finish, the safe and removable Controller Faceplate attaches in seconds to the official controller and features authentic artwork to support the game (Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 Controller Faceplate sold separately).

MSRP: $14.99

• Modern Warfare 2 Combat GamePad – PC

For those who enjoy gaming on their PC but prefer the feel of a gamepad over a keyboard and mouse, the Modern Warfare 2 Combat GamePad provides a comfortable and highly ergonomic method of play.  Featuring full analog control, the Combat GamePad is fashioned in authentic Modern Warfare 2 artwork and comes complete with a complement of four Action Buttons and four Trigger Buttons as well as a stable eight-way D-Pad delivering precision and accuracy where fast response is crucial to survival.  Pre-programmed for Modern Warfare 2, the Combat GamePad ships with software that allows gamers to reprogram the four Action Buttons to suit their personal preferences or for use with other software titles.  The Combat GamePad is compatible with Windows 7, Vista and XP.

MSRP: $24.99

• Modern Warfare 2 Sniper Mouse – PC

Fine-tuned for razor-sharp assault, the Modern Warfare 2 Sniper Mouse allows for precision in-game control.  Instantly adjustable DPI (‘Dot Per Inch’) allows gamers to adjust the speed of the mouse cursor at any time, ideal for a multitude of missions and varying styles of play.  A built-in weight cartridge allows gamers to add or subtract weights from the Mouse tailoring the feel for personal preference.  Fashioned in fully authentic graphics, the Sniper Mouse is certain to be the weapon of choice for PC enthusiasts.  Pre-programmed for Modern Warfare 2, the Mouse ships with software that allows gamers to reprogram the Mouse Buttons to suit their personal preference or for use with other software titles.  The Sniper Mouse is compatible with Windows 7, Vista and XP.

MSRP: $49.99

• Modern Warfare 2 Combat Keyboard – PC

The Modern Warfare 2 Combat Keyboard features ‘Anti-Ghosting’ in key action areas and a Windows Key Lock to prevent accidental disruption to game play.  Easily accessible Media Keys provide instant access to volume control, play/pause and other essential media-related functions and a weighted base with strategically placed large rubber feet that prevent the keyboard from slipping off the desk.  Pre-programmed for Modern Warfare 2, the Combat Keyboard ships with software that allows gamers to reprogram Function Buttons to suit their personal preference or for use with other software titles.  The Combat Keyboard is compatible with Windows 7, Vista and XP.

MSRP: $49.99

• Modern Warfare 2 Elite Keyboard – PC

Built on the successful ‘Cyborg’ Keyboard platform, the Modern Warfare 2 Elite Keyboard is ideal for those who take their gaming seriously and will prove to be an essential ally in the field.  Multi-Color backlighting, including adjustable brightness and ‘Tru-Vu’ illumination, provides gamers with the ability to set ambient lighting, ranging from red through to amber and green.  Touch-Sensitive Back-Lit Dashboard controls provide access to keyboard lighting and media functions.  Further aiding in the custom nature of the keyboard, the WASD, cursor, ‘Cyborg’ and NumPad keys can all be lit independently from the rest of the keyboard, allowing players to highlight keys commonly used in-game.  One-touch ‘Cyborg’ mode instantly disables the Windows keys and adjusts the keyboard illumination to desired settings for simple set-up and no fewer than twelve Cyborg keys can be programmed to replicate any sequence of keyboard presses in a single button.  Durable Metal-Plated key caps provide reinforced strength on the most commonly used gaming keys and gold-plated connectors for USB and microphone inputs allow other accessories to be passed through the keyboard without accessing the PC.  Pre-programmed for Modern Warfare 2, the Elite Keyboard ships with software that allows gamers to reprogram Keyboard Buttons to suit their personal preference or for use with other software titles.  The Elite Keyboard is compatible with Windows 7, Vista and XP.

MSRP: $99.99

Darren Richardson, President and Chief Executive Officer of Mad Catz commented, “This new range marks our first full line of licensed PC products launching alongside the console accessories.  The Saitek and Cyborg names are brands respected by PC gamers worldwide and we believe that consumers will respond enthusiastically to these high quality licensed products.  Modern Warfare 2 is one of the most anticipated software titles this year and we are excited to support it with a comprehensive range which is certain to enhance the gaming experience.”

“We’re thrilled with the global success of The Sims 3 over these last few months and are looking forward to expanding on the gameplay experience with one of the most robust expansion packs to The Sims yet,” said Scott Evans, General Manager of The Sims at EA. “Players will be able to take their Sims on the adventure of a lifetime and explore lands outside of Sunset Valley and Riverview, pursue thrilling new life destinies in locations around the world inspired by famous destinations, and immerse themselves in the open-ended gameplay where they’ll discover new cities in China, France and Egypt and share new stories.”

Players can take their Sims on new journeys to famous real-world inspired destinations around the globe for the first time ever and seek out new adventures. While exploring the landmarks of an exotic city, there is no telling what the Sims will find. From mastering martial arts in Shang Simla, China, discovering rich culture and famous landmarks on a romantic getaway to Champs Les Sims, France or exploring the depths of ancient tombs in Al Simhara, Egypt, players can take their Sims on a journey that will change their Sims’ lives. Players can accept challenges to search for secret treasures, learn new skills and chase down new personal opportunities, meet new Sims with unique personalities, share their culture and bring them home, discover new styles on their travels, and share everything they encounter on their adventures with the world through personal photographs, movies, and stories. Additionally, players will receive 1,000 SimPoints to be used online in The Sims 3 Store for the PC/MAC versions of the game. Exclusive online content, available only for the expansion pack at launch, will be revealed soon.

The Sims 3 World Adventures will also be available for feature phones, the iPhone and iPod touch in early 2010 from EA Mobile. These versions will have customized mobile gameplay features which will be revealed in the coming months.

Inspector Gadget makes its iPhone debut with a little help from Namco Bandai Networks Europe, who developed the game in conjunction with Cookie Jar Entertainment, the producer of the hit cartoon series. The game is being published internationally for Apple iPhone and iPod touch devices by Namco Networks America, a publisher and developer of mobile games and entertainment for mass-market casual gamers.

Using various gadgets and gizmos, players help guide the world’s most absent-minded detective battle against the evil Dr. Claw in a classic platform action game. Players guide the Inspector in his mission across six action packed levels and six mini-games. The game features both Story mode and Quick Play mode, which allows players to play previously unlocked levels.

iPhone users are able to play as Inspector Gadget, his niece Penny or his uber intelligent and ever-faithful dog Brain as they progress through the game. To navigate through the game, touch controls sit on either side of the screen making gameplay simple and easy. Some of the detective’s greatest gadgets are also featured in-game for users to pit against his evil nemesis Dr Claw, including his Gadget ’Copter, Gadget Coat and Gadget Umbrella.

Inspector Gadget recently celebrated its 25th anniversary and is broadcast in 24 languages across 55 countries around the globe, gaining fans with its memorable theme tune, “Go Go Gadget” catchphrase and gadget’s helicopter hat and roller skate shoe antics.

“Inspector Gadget is a personal favourite for me, and a character who has gained a loyal global following, making him one of the most lovable icons of the cartoon crime-solving world,” Barry O’Neill, President of Namco Bandai Networks Europe. “Inspector Gadget and the iPhone is a perfect partnership as one of the world’s most famous gadget users meets one of the world’s most famous gadgets.”

The new game gives players the chance to try out many of the Inspector’s awesome gadgets first hand, and is available immediately from the iTunes store.

Playcast, an innovative start-up company, announced today of the availability of its Playcast gaming system, which is set to bring high quality interactive entertainment to the largest existing digital media distribution platform in the world – TV. Not only that, this unique system requires no changes to the cable network, the customer’s on-site equipment (set-top boxes) or the games themselves.

Playcast is a complete gaming service solution for Cable and IPTV operators. The service brings next-generation IP owners to hundreds of millions of connected households, with the added benefit of established billing, customer care and support systems already in place via the cable operators themselves.

Playcast’s system uses groundbreaking new technology to deliver PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 quality games, on demand, to ordinary Cable or Telco set top boxes via standard cable telephone lines. This field proven technology uses ultra high-speed processing to handle off-the-shelf games and distribute the game’s audio visual output as digital video. The technology has already seen operation on a live cable system and the high quality end-user experience has been validated by experts and gamers alike. The Playcast system also allows for seamless integration between TV and games, bringing new business opportunities for publishers, broadcasters and advertisers.

“Playcast represents a quantum leap for gaming on demand,” said Guy De Beer, CEO of Playcast. “While Cable TV systems currently offer only rudimentary games at best, Playcast marks the start of new generation of game distribution. Finally, the TV space and real games unite to deliver exciting new ways of reaching users”.

“Hundreds of millions of video on demand transactions are made every single day, so the potential in bringing this volume of business to publishers and allowing them to capitalise on their back catalogues is very significant,” commented Playcast COO & President of Media, Alon Shtruzman. “We need to keep in mind that for the user, it’s a whole new ball game, literally – imagine watching a football match on a cable sports channel and being able to trigger a version of FIFA or Pro Evolution featuring the same teams at the touch of a button. With our console-free service and cost effective pricing models our target audience goes way beyond the hard-core gamers.”

The Playcast service has been in a closed pilot with a tier-1 international operator since February 2008, with extensive market research and dedicated focus groups confirming the console quality of experience. The service is scheduled to launch with limited coverage in April 2009, before rolling out full national deployment in the summer of 2009. Playcast is in advanced evaluation phases with the world’s leading Cable and IPTV operators, and expects to reach major markets in the US, Europe and Asia during 2009 and 2010.

Issue 1/23 of Weekly Famitsu celebrate the new year by interviewing 21 Japanese game “creators” who they think will make waves in the year 2009. I always love these interviews, especially when developers explain the thinking behind their games or reveals how difficult it is to make them. Each creator gets a page to talk about 2008, 2009 and their games, so read on if you’re interested.

Some pretty big games are mentioned in the article, including but certainly not limited to games such as Street Fighter IV and Final Fantasy XIII.

They have a different article for the PS3, PSP, and DS articles, I suggest you check them out.

Hi, everyone, I wanted to give you a quick heads up that a new PSP firmware update, v. 5.03, will be released soon. This update includes a security patch for the PSP’s system software.

No further details have been revealed, if they are we will let you know.