GameOPS [video games, gadgets, etc.]

The TRUTH About Your Cable Internet

2013-03-30T16:17:00.000+08:00

LOL'ng at this video since this morning. I've been a subscriber of Destiny Cable Internet for 13 years now and trust me, I can relate. XD

Shall we date?:Ninja Love

2013-03-18T18:08:00.000+08:00

Recently, I discovered that there are otome games on Android. Yes, you're hearing that right and I'm cross-posting this to Android Pinas, when I'm not lazy. Later, maybe?

Anyway, so I've been playing this otoge called Shall we date?:Ninja Love. This game is one of the those Shall we date? series you'll see around. They're made by NTT Solmare for both android and iphone and is powered by GREE. So you would need to register for GREE before you’ll be able to play the game.

I have a longer post about this game at my blog, but if you prefer a less detailed post, you can read it on here, instead.
Ninja Love, like any other otoge, is 2D dating simulation game where you progress through the story like reading a visual novel. But unlike usual otoge, where the story line depends on the choices or decision you make when situations arise, in Ninja Love, you follow the same story line, only yor Love Meter will gain slower points.

There is also a character level, but it's basically useless due to the fact that you level up just as the story progresses. You will, however, be limited with your progress because you need evergy for each chapter you read. You gain these by either waiting for X number of hours or buying rice balls from the store using in-game money or GREE coins (this is where the business begins). While going through the story, you will also be held back by checkpoints and this time, you need passports to go through. Rice balls are one thing, but checkpoints are really expensive if you would buy them using in-game money and there's no way you'll be able to buy all passports using in-game money by merely farming them. Basically, it's a subtle way of saying, "buy GREE coins" to continue to play.

If you're all into bishie and fan service and you're okay with spending a bit to get it, the game is not that bad for an otoge. :D

Winter Is Coming!

2013-02-15T09:39:00.001+08:00

Winter is Coming!

Did you know that there's a game that's based on is based on the popular novel series A Song of Ice and Fire written by George R. R. Martin? Yes, there is! And it's currently under development by Disruptor Beam.

Game of Thrones Ascent is a mass-multiplier browser-based strategy online game where you will be living inside the A Song of Ice and Fire world as a noble.

In Game of Thrones Ascent players will lead the life of a noble during the time of upheaval as portrayed in the books and the series thus experiencing a new type of game that unites both story and strategy. Players will claim their birthright by choosing which of the great houses they'll swear allegiance to, securing their holdings, developing their lands and personal reputation, and assigning sworn swords to quests--while forging alliances with new friends and much more!

As of current, there's no word about when the beta test will come. But based on the Facebook announcements as of late, it's coming very very soon!

If you're interested in beta testing this game, you might wanna hop yourself to and Like their Facebook page for a chance on a beta test account.

Official website
Official Facebook Page
Official Twitter page

About the Company
Disruptor Beam is a Boston-based game company that transports the fans of beloved literary and television series into the worlds they love. By linking game content to episodes and books, players become a living member of the world as stories continue to evolve around them. The company's games are accessed through social networks such as Facebook and next-generation mobile devices. The company, founded and led by game industry veteran and serial entrepreneur Jon Radoff, is backed by a group of technology and gaming entrepreneurs from the Boston area.

BAR URAMEN (BAR裏面) - Video game/Famicom bar in Tokyo

2013-02-13T14:52:00.002+08:00

A week ago, I took an audio tour of a very interesting section of Shinjuku called “Kabukicho”. This area is infamously known as Tokyo’s red light district (though there is another such district near my apartment) and home to many Yakuza offices. Hence, Kabukicho has a reputation for being the “most dangerous” place in Tokyo, which of course is a total joke if you’ve ever lived in Manila and have roamed around Quiapo and Tondo. Take it from me, this place is absolutely safe as long as you stay away from suspicious looking people and shops.

It’s a bit sad that Kabukicho is always equated to the sex industry because that’s not what it’s all about. There’s a lot of more wholesome fun that can be had in this part of Shinjuku like arcades, amusement centers, great restaurants, and interesting stores and bars. One such example is in the eastern section of Kabukicho called “Golden Gai”, a block of tiny hole-in-the-wall type bars. According to White Rabbit Press’ Kabukicho audio guide, right after World War II, this area had many drinking places and brothels, but in the late 50’s, an anti-prostitution law was implemented and the brothels disappeared. Golden Gai's watering holes, however, remained and today are a well-known hangout for famous artists, with each bar having a different theme. Says the audio guide, some are for jazz fans, others for film lovers, and one of them, I discovered, is a Famicom (Family Computer) bar called “Bar Uramen” where you can drink while playing Famicom/NES games from a selection of about 500 titles. I visited this place yesterday evening.

View Bar Uramen in a larger map
The tour described the atmosphere of the bars in Golden Gai as being in “someone’s living room”. That’s exactly how being inside Bar Uramen felt like, though it was more like being in a college student’s tiny Tokyo apartment. You could probably fit about 12 to 14 people in this place, with about 6 or 7 counter seats and a small area with equally small tables for another 6 or 7 people. And when I say “tiny apartment” I mean “Wee-man” tiny – I think the floor area was around 8 to 9 square meters.

It was quite a messy place, but very homey.

There was only one customer sitting at the counter when we arrived. Not unusual as this was a Tuesday evening. He was speaking to the bartender, a nice lady who apparently had no interest in video games, which I thought was pretty ironic considering this was a Famicom bar. She said she was more into “German board games”. I had no idea what an example of that would be, though.

There is a table charge of 600 Yen (263 Pesos). Buy a drink or not, you are charged this fee. Drinks were priced at an average of 500 to 600 Yen (219 to 263 Pesos). That might sound expensive, but that’s actually how much a drink is at any regular bar in Tokyo, so I’d say it’s reasonable. As for food, they served only smoked cheese, instant noodles, and canned food – not exactly sophisticated, though you wouldn’t be coming here for the food, right? And like I said, it’s as if you were in a university student’s flat. It’s also good to note that there are no hidden charges. Prices already include taxes.

As you can see from the picture below, gaming is done on a projector. The only system you can choose to play video games on is a newish version of the Famicom despite the fact that you can see a variety of consoles scattered throughout the bar (I saw a Wii, PS3, and a PC Engine). I even saw a couple boxes of Hori V3 Fighting Sticks. I asked the bartender if these other consoles are ever used, but she said that they only ever let customers use the Famicom.

Dude playing Super Mario Bros.

Games can be selected from a list of game cartridges in the form of a booklet. However, this list is in Japanese. If you find something you like, you tell the bartender, and she fetches it for you from the pile of Famicom cartridges on a shelf on the wall. My friend and I played Ninja Gaiden 1, 1943, Bomberman 2, Baseball, and Kirby. Another guy played Super Mario Bros., and some person played and finished Rockman 2 (Megaman 2).

Not sure what those hard hats are for.

The staff was very friendly and started a conversation with us. We even received Valentine’s day gifts in the form of a package containing a kind of brownie with a couple tea bags (in Japan, Valentine’s Day is for men - there is another day for women called White Day). Later, the shop owner came in and introduced himself to us. To be honest, when I entered Bar Uramen and saw the small, cramped, and disorganized shack with all kinds of things scattered about, I thought it may have been a bad idea to visit, but after letting ourselves feel at home, and through the kindness and warmth of the staff (and customers!), I actually enjoyed myself a lot.

With no knowledge of Japanese, I wouldn’t recommend going to Bar Uramen. No one speaks English, and all signs including the menus are in Japanese as well (with no pictures), though I suppose if you are the adventurous type you could probably somehow communicate your needs. Should you decide to go, don’t let first appearances deceive you. If you let yourself relax and enjoy what they have to offer, you’ll be in for a very unique and interesting experience.

Update: I forgot to mention that Bar Uramen used to be called Qunai Bros., and Games Radar wrote something about it in their almost 4 year old article on "Tokyo's underground game bars". They claim that Qunai Bros. is hard to find and entry to the establishment is just as difficult... but I had no difficulties at all. The place even has a website with a map. Perhaps it was GR's attempt to give it some hype, or maybe things have changed since then. Also, one other thing I wanted to mention is that they seem to have stopped serving okonomiyaki. The Games Radar article says that they used to do so.

Social Media In the Wrong Hands

2013-02-01T03:52:00.001+08:00

Have you seen her dog? LOL NO.

Social Media has helped a lot of people in the past few years. Remember Ondoy? A lot of people were saved because of Twitter and Facebook. It enables people to communicate and spread information a lot faster then traditional mediums such as telegrams, texts, or emails. The downside is, unscrupulous individials (or companies) can also use this platforms for their own benefit.

There is nothing wrong with using social media for PR or advertising purposes. In fact, it's one of the best modes available. In fact, this platform has enabled advertising to add dimensions to its campaigns that weren't possible before.

However, there are some lines that no self-respecting creative campaign should ever cross.

One of these is EMOTIONAL MANIPULATION.

This Facebook Page of a certain David Lorenzo is one such example. David Lorenzo, to bring you up to speed, is no ordinary human being. He is no regular PTA dad. In fact, he may not even exist at all.
This, folks, is an example of social media gone blatantly unscrupulous.

This disgusting Facebook Page has a purported back story of a father who supposedly so loved their dog that he created a PAGE of HIMSELF just to find their "missing" dog, Booster. As of this writing, more than 4800 people have liked his page and showed concern on the whereabouts of the "missing" dog.

The wrong part, though, is that David Lorenzo isn't real.

David Lorenzo, dear friends, is a certain telecommunications company's idea of what a viral campaign should be.

Nothing wrong with wanting to go viral, until...
...You manipulate people for their sympathies and compassion, wrench the hearts of the people who are, as we say in the Philippines, "Pusong Mamon," and generally take everybody else for a ride, in the quest for high traffic and Facebook Likes.

If you find nothing wrong with this kind of campaign, let us give you this list:

Lying
Emotional manipulation.
Making everyone believe that that cute dog is missing and this cute girl is heartbroken.
Eliciting everyone's manipulated "Aww, poor girl, poor family, poor dad," via DECEIT.
Does it make sense that you try to find a dog and make a Facebook Page OF YOURSELF? It defies digital/new media campaign LOGIC. If you wanted to find a dog, you create a page to FIND A DOG, not a page OF YOURSELF.

If you find nothing wrong with our list, then either you're blind or your IQ is 12.

If you don't believe that creating a Facebook Page about a lost pet is NOT insensitive, try having your favorite chow-chow getting run over by a 10-wheeler. If that doesn't tear your heart out, then we don't know what material it's made of, Advertising Agency.

If you ever bear or have your spouses bear children, try dangling a Scottish Terrier or a Himalayan in front of them and then slitting the pet's throat right in front of their faces. Maybe then you will learn that emotional manipulation is wrong and that losing a pet is not a happy ordeal. Not for the adults, and most definitely not for the children.

We denounce what the Advertising Agency has done with a false story, a Facebook Page, and people's hearts.

And as for you, telecommunications company, we're calling you out for approving this ill-thought-out, stupid, lying, cheating, deceitful campaign

[post written by lorrie & jepoy]

StarCraft II: Heart of the Swarm is Coming!

2013-01-23T13:45:00.005+08:00

StarCraft II: Heart of the Swarm is coming! Blizzard Entertainment will release the second installment of StarCraft II trilogy, the best sci-fi strategy game that reigned for more than a decade, on March 12, 2013.

Battle.net is now accepting pre-orders of StarCraft II: Heart of the Swarm. If you're planning to get the deluxe or the collector's edition, better grab them now because SC2 sells like hotcakes, for real.

The game will cover about 20 missions and will be a sequel to the StarCarft II: Wings of Liberty story line. The player will have the perspective of a human Kerrigan who's out seeking scattered Zerg broods.

More info on the official page!

Globe Telecom Gets Own Events Ground

2013-01-16T16:37:00.000+08:00

After Smart Communications closed a naming rights deal to rename the Big Dome to Smart - Araneta Coliseum, Globe Telecom found itself in a difficult position. Imagine, hosting an event and the venue is plastered with their competitor's name. Screwed McDuck! But that will soon change as Globe Telecom and Ayala Land forged a naming deal rights.

Ayala Land Inc. announced its P20-billion entertainment project, which will rise at the former Sta Ana Race Track. Circuit Makati will be a 21-hectare integrated mixed-use project anchored on entertainment experiences that will bring together Ayala Land's various product lines consisting of residential, malls, offices and hotels.

"In five years' time, it will rise as a dynamic urban hub seamlessly complementing the distinct taste for living, leisure and lifestyle of today's modern urbanites," said company president Antonino Aquino.

"We envision Circuit to further highlight Makati City's stature, not only as the Philippines' business and financial capital, but also, more importantly, as the country's unrivaled destination for lifestyle and entertainment," said Mean Dy, Ayala Land strategic landbank management group head.

Globe Telecom obtained naming and branding rights with its multimillion peso deal with Circuit Makati, the latest development of Ayala Land that will convert the former Sta. Ana Race Track into a complete lifestyle and entertainment venue.

With an investment of P30-million over 3 years, Globe secured exclusive naming rights in the Circuit Events Ground, one of the three distinct entertainment venues aimed at attracting families and urbanites to further enjoy the country’s premier business district.

Dubbed as Globe Circuit Events Ground, the outdoor theater will feature a 2,000-square-meter canopy area, which can house up to 1,000 people, and is set to be the preferred entertainment venue in the metro, hosting numerous outdoor events and activities such as concerts, dance and theater performances, street plays, festivals, fashion shows, exhibits as well as outdoor sporting events such as football.

"In the past, the race track has provided entertainment for generations of horse-racing aficionados. Now, Ayala Land intends to preserve the district's entertainment equity by bringing in a multi-faceted form of entertainment, one that is both interactive and world class," said Dy.

A particular highlight of Circuit’s grand launch this year will be the unveiling of the first phase of the development: a two-hectare open grounds area that can accommodate up to 20,000 people in a single event.

Aside from the Globe Circuit Events Ground, the other entertainment venues are the Circuit Theatre, a 1,500-seater performing arts venue that will showcase the Filipino’s world-class talent and feature “Broadway-type” of entertainment, and the Circuit Lane which will feature an interactive walk with a multi-purpose black box for more intimate shows, recitals, workshops and even parties.

“We are excited with this new partnership deal with Ayala Land as evidenced in our investment and trust with the property development. We see a huge potential and very bright future for Circuit Makati as a dynamic and interactive hub that will provide Filipinos another world-class entertainment experience. With our increased visibility and presence at the premier entertainment centre, we will be able to make patrons and visitors experience the Globe services that fit their lifestyle,” said Ernest Cu, Globe President and CEO.

As Ayala Land’s latest district, Circuit Makati is a 21-hectare mixed-use development which will build a dynamic urban hub that will complement the distinct taste for living experiences and lifestyle of today’s modern urbanites. As one of the key pillars of the Make It Happen, Make It Makati campaign, it will complete the city’s vision to have a vast entertainment space.

DMC: Devil May Cry Out Tomorrow!

2013-01-14T18:57:00.000+08:00

Ninja Theory's newest hack and slash video game that everyone's been anticipating for since it's announcement last 2010 Tokyo Game Show, here comes the new and improved (hopefully), Dante!

DMC: Devil May Cry will be out tomorrow for sales tomorrow, January 15th, 2013, in North America and Europe while it will be released January 17th, 2013 in Japan.

This new DMC will feature a whole new different version of Dante from our old alpha male character. The background story of this new game is set in a parallel universe from the old DMC series. Dante is being chased by demons who are attempting to kill him. While on the run, he meets this girl named Kat who brings him to an organization called "The Order" where he helps them fight the Limbo City's demons and uncover the truth behind everything.

This new game will feature the same style game play as the old DMC games and also introduce a new Angel and Devil Mode for our beloved Dante.

Ragnarok Online II Now On Open Beta!

2013-01-04T07:32:00.000+08:00

Asiasoft SEA finally announced Ragnarok Online II's Open Beta! Unfortunately for us Filipino fans, we are not included in the list of countries that are available for this OBT. The only countries in SEA where RO2 is open are Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.

As stated in the announcement from the official website:

Dear Asgardians,

We are happy to announce that OBT will start tomorrow, 3rd January 2013, at 1300 HRS (+8 GMT)! That is less than 19 hours from now!

However, it's with our deepest apologies that we announce we will not be able to provide the RO2 game service to players outside of our optimised countries - Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam - due to our licence agreement with the game's developer, Gravity Co., Ltd.

These aforementioned licence terms will take full effect from the start of OBT tomorrow and we deeply apologise for any inconvenience caused to players. We are extremely grateful for the support you have shown RO2 so far and we thank you again for being a part of this journey.

Thank you all!
- RO2 Administrator

Ragnarok Online 2: The Gate of the World, or simply RO2 for the endearing fans, is the second installment of the popular MMORPG by Gravity Corp., Ragnarok Online – the game that made online gaming (especially MMORPG) bloom world wide. Every single southeast asian RO fan has been anticipating this game to be released in SEA since the launching of it's OBT in Korea in year 2006. And finally, it's here but with limitations.

I do hope as time goes, they will make it available for the Philippines, too. But while in wait, we just have to look around for possible work around. ;-)

RO2 Online Official Website
RO2 Online Official Facebook Page
RO2 Online Official Twitter Account

TinierMe is Closing!

2012-11-14T18:40:00.000+08:00

Depressing news hit players of the popular social flash game TinierMe when a sudden announce of it's closure was posted just a month after it celebrated it's 3rd year anniversary.

Notice: IMPORTANT - TinierMe will be Closing (Nov 9)

12/11/09 00:29 No.496

Dear TinierMe Users,

It is with deep regret that we announce the cancellation of the TinierMe, and TinierMe for Facebook services (the "Services") effective as of 12:00 a.m. (PST) on December 10, 2012 ("Cancellation Date"). We extend our thanks and gratitude to all who have supported us and the Services and sincerely hope that our Services have been an enjoyable experience for you. Here are some important dates and information relating to the cancellation of the Service. Please read this Cancellation Notice carefully as they constitute "Additional Terms" referenced in the Terms of Service.

1. November 9, 2012. The purchasing of G-Coins will be terminated (including the activation and use of official gift cards), and new user registration closed. All other Services through the Cancellation Date will be made available to users, and any remaining G-Coins in User's accounts can be spent until the Cancellation Date. Users will receive G-Coins from Sponsored Offers completed by November 9, 2012 but not from Sponsored Offers completed on or after November 9, 2012.

2. December 10, 2012. The Service will be cancelled as of the Cancellation Date. The Service will not be accessible after this date, and all Account and related personal data will be deleted without further notice. As described in the Terms of Service, there will be no refunds of any G-Coins due to the cancellation of the Service. All provisions of the Terms of Service which by their nature should survive termination shall survive termination, including, without limitation, ownership provisions, warranty disclaimers, indemnity and limitations of liability.

3. For any questions or comments regarding this Cancellation Notice, please visit the Support Center. Customer Support will be provided until the Cancellation Date. However, depending on the severity of the issue, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries.

Thank you again for playing.
Best Regards,
The TinierMe Team

TinierMe is just one of those flash-based social network games that closed one after the other within the past years. As Facebook apps and games get more and more popular, game user counts drop drastically for other games as goes their profits, leaving them unable to fund for running their company. As you know, maintaining game development companies are a bit heavy on the pocket as graphic artist, developers and so on, are expensive. Thus, stand alone game development and publishing who weren't able to cope up are left with the option of either getting bought up larger companies or are left with no other option but to shut down.

DataBlitz and X-Play's Official Statements

2012-11-08T13:12:00.002+08:00

Pirated or Unauthorized copies? Here are the official word from both camps regarding the raid of DataBlitz stores in Metro Manila after X-Play Online Games filed a complaint last week.

OFFICIAL STATEMENT OF X-PLAY

It is unfortunate that businesses had to be disrupted by the incident that transpired yesterday. While we sympathize with other individuals dragged on by this issue, we stand by our ground to be vigilant in dealing with illegal activities to protect our rights, our partners and our local gaming community.

This is not a knee-jerk reaction from X-Play. In fact, meetings were held with Datablitz President, Winston Lim and his team to become X-Play’s primary partner for NBA 2K13. Datablitz key executives Sandra Lu and Orpha Oambas even participated in X-Play’s distributor conferences and got all the marketing and distribution plans of the company.

Datablitz’s decision to acquire and distribute NBA 2K13 through unauthorized means despite these efforts, leaves X-Play no other option but to report this to the proper authorities, in which CIDG and the Regional Trail Court took immediate action on.

The action of Datablitz was not only detrimental to X-Play but also affected other smaller retailers, game stores and entrepreneurs.

We hope nothing more but to resolve this predicament but will hold firm in protecting the industry from smugglers and illegal operators.

FACTS OF THE CASE

The complaint was for “unfair competition” defined under Section 168 of Republic Act No. 8293 or the Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines.

By selling the NBA2K13 Products without authority from EpicSoft and/or XPlay, the exclusive distributor thereof in the Philippines, Datablitz, Inc. took a “free ride” on the good will and marketing excitement established by XPlay, thereby engaging in “unfair competition” to the prejudice of-Xplay and all of its rightful distributors most of which are small retail outlets.

MEETINGS WITH DATABLITZ

· Meeting between Take 2 Interactive, X-Play, and Datablitz

o Date: September 6, 2012

o Location: New World Hotel

o Discussion Points:

§ X-Play will be Official Distributor for NBA 2K13

§ X-Play wants Datablitz as a primary partner, and requested Datablitz to advise on support requirements it would need for NBA 2K13

· Distributors Conference 1

o Date: September 13, 2012

o Location: Max Restaurant, Gateway Mall, Cubao, Quezon City

o Attendees: Sandra Lu, Datablitz Purchasing Head

Orpha Oambas, Datablitz Marketing and Events Manager

o Discussion Points:

§ Briefing on X-Play Product Portfolio

§ Briefing on Marketing Programs

§ Discussion of Commercial Terms and Trade Concerns

· Distributors Conference 2

o Date: September 27, 2012

o Location: Max Restaurant, Gateway Mall, Cubao, Quezon City

o Attendees: Sandra Lu, Datablitz Purchasing Head

Orpha Oambas, Datablitz Marketing and Events Manager

o Discussion Points:

§ Discussion on NBA 2K13 Trade Programs, inclusive of all commercial terms.

§ Briefing on NBA 2K13 Marketing Program

· Lunch Meeting between Datablitz and X-Play Top Executives

o Date: September 28, 2012

o Discussion Points:

§ In-depth Discussion on partnership Agreement and Concerns

§ Sealed partnership Agreement via a Handshake

· Meeting between X-Play Sales Team and Datablitz Operations and Purchasing Heads

o Date: September 28, 2012

o Discussion Points

§ Discussion on actual orders to be placed by Datablitz

§ Operational discussion involving Purchase Order releasing, delivery timeframe, and collateral distribution.

(via Jayvee)

OFFICIAL STATEMENT OF DATABLITZ

To Our Beloved Gaming Community & Friends,

Monday, Nov. 5, 2012, will be remembered as a day of infamy and shame for the gaming industry with XPlay initiating a disgraceful harassment action against DataBlitz for alleged selling of "unauthorized" stocks of NBA 2K13.

Yesterday, XPlay released an official statement listing down various details of meetings between XPlay and DataBlitz in the weeks leading to the launch of NBA 2K13. In spite of all that's been said in their press release, they've conveniently omitted the most pertinent details:

1. All the meetings that took place between Xplay and DataBlitz were initiated at the request of XPlay. DataBlitz has never asked to meet with XPlay and were only asked to participate in meetings and/or to join XPlay's so-called "marketing programs" (which are really nothing more than just glamorized parlor game events). DataBlitz participated in the meetings and "marketing programs" out of courtesy to XPlay and no such thing as "primary partnership", whatsoever was ever discussed, offered, nor penned on paper, whatsoever.

2. Apart from just saying that they will be distributing NBA 2K13, XPlay has never indicated in any form of writing or communications whatsoever to DataBlitz that they are the exclusive distributor of the game.

3. Thirdly, and this is the most important and glaring omission in XPlay's press release: in spite of the above, the fact is that DataBlitz still went ahead and purchased a considerable quantity of NBA 2K13 stocks from XPlay as a gesture of goodwill towards XPlay, even knowing that they are still very new to the industry of console games, without any proven track record whatsoever to speak of along this front.

However, it is the understanding of DataBlitz that XPlay is just another reseller of the game, and as we still live in a free country the last time we checked, DataBlitz reserves its right to buy stocks of the game from other sources, apart from XPlay, so long as these are legitimate, genuine, brand-new, original games, that are and always have been the hallmark of our product offerings to our customers.

DataBlitz has been in the gaming industry for over 17 years now, and our record speaks for itself, we have always maintained a pristine reputation as the one reliable source for original and genuine games at reasonable prices. From the very beginning when piracy dominated the market 17 years ago and up to this day that we have been able to steadily educate our consumers (without harassing anyone) about buying and patronizing original games and software, we have remained steadfast in our core belief of looking after the welfare of the gaming public first and foremost.

If there suddenly are now parties out there who see the vibrancy of the gaming industry as a way to profit immensely by using sham claims of being the only party that possesses "authorized" stocks (whatever that means) in order to shove overpriced games down the throats of the gaming public, this kind of modus is just against the core principles of DataBlitz and something we just cannot and will not go along with.

At the end of the day, we have the welfare of our customers at heart, not the twisted desires of these opportunists. Even if it means this will be a lonely battle, as Monday's events have shown that we were very obviously the only one unjustly and unreasonably singled out, we shall always remain as the one beacon of light and hope for gamers everywhere and carry on the good fight to stop such forms of profiteering through harassment.

---

(Posted as of 1PM, 11/08/2012)

To our friends & family in gaming,

We wish to further dispel the false news reports that have circulated the past few days. The seized NBA 2K13 stocks are not pirated nor smuggled goods. DataBlitz has never sold any pirated games, not then, not now and not ever. The games are genuine, original stocks that came from legitimate suppliers, and had gone through the proper importation channels with taxes & duties properly paid.

The basis and reason for the seizure of the goods was that these were allegedly "unauthorized" stocks, without XPlay stickers, and taken away under the supervision of the lawyers of XPlay, who supervised the whole process up to and including the most unjust detention of our staff who were merely doing their work of manning our stores and trying to make an honest living.

We look forward to contesting the "unauthorized" stocks issue and the truthfulness and validity of the exclusivity claim in the proper fora in due time.

Meanwhile, from the bottom of our hearts, a million billion gazillion thanks for the outpouring of support we've received from our beloved gaming community and from gamers in general everywhere. You are our inspiration and your support is the source of our strength in everything that we do since our inception. There is no DataBlitz today without you and for this, we shall forever be grateful. In this dark hour, you have stood by us and have come to our defense, and the least we can do is to continue to work hard and fight each and everyday for the welfare of gamers everywhere! MARAMING MARAMING SALAMAT PO!!

X-Play is a joint venture of IP e-Games and GMA New Media and is the exclusive distributor of games from Blizzard Entertainment and Take Two Interactive in the Philippines.

Meanwhile, a Facebook page called We Support Datablitz now has 665 fans (likes).

X-Play (IP e-Games) files complaint against Datablitz

2012-11-06T02:39:00.000+08:00

X-Play Online Games Inc. (a subsidiary of IP e-Games) has filed a complaint against Datablitz for selling unauthorized copies of games they exclusively distribute in the Philippines.

The Philippine National Police's Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) on Monday raided and seized the copies of the unauthorized games from Datablitz in Robinson's Ermita, Virra Mall, Greenbelt, and a few other branches in Metro Manila. The staff were also taken into the CIDG office for mugshots and further questioning.

Datablitz has been known to be one of the few stores in the country that sell legit copies of video games. The complaint stemmed from the original games being sold at Datablitz stores without the official sticker from X-Play.

X-Play is a joint venture of IP e-Games and GMA New Media and is the exclusive distributor of games from Blizzard Entertainment and Take Two Interactive in the Philippines.

Nickelodeon and GigaMedia FunTown Announce First Technical Test of SpongeBob Town MMOG

2012-10-22T20:05:00.000+08:00

PHILIPPINES, 19 OCTOBER 2012 - Nickelodeon, one of the world’s leading entertainment brands for kids, and GigaMedia FunTown, a NASDAQ listed major provider of online entertainment in Asia, is set to launch the global first look of SpongeBob Town on October 25. SpongeBob Town is the first Massively Multiplayer Online Game (MMOG) based on Nickelodeon’s award-winning TV property, SpongeBob SquarePants.

The first beta test for SpongeBob Town runs from October 25 to 27 and game servers will be up for a limited time only, from 12:00 to 10:00 pm every day. Gamers and fans alike are encouraged to visit and “Like” the game's Facebook page over at www.facebook.com/spongebobtown for instructions on how to get one of the 2,000 beta test accounts and to receive latest updates.

GigaMedia FunTown will release further announcements on the status of the game and players can expect more exciting developments this yearend, and in the first quarter of 2013. The game is expected to be fully launched by next year for players in China, Korea, Japan and Southeast Asia. Other markets will come soon thereafter.

Nickelodeon and GigaMedia FunTown aim to build upon the success of the highly popular SpongeBob SquarePants cartoon series and amp up the show’s fun factor by rolling out SpongeBob Town, a game that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Combining the expertise of Nickelodeon and GigaMedia FunTown, the game will bring together dedicated gaming fans and cartoon enthusiasts, blurring the line between the two to create a fresh, new gaming community.

SpongeBob Town features the vibrant cast of SpongeBob SquarePants where gamers play as characters including SpongeBob SquarePants, Patrick Star and Squidward Tentacles. Players begin their grand underwater adventure at Bikini Bottom, home to the show’s characters. The casual game offers an expansive quest-based experience and customization elements where players can develop their characters, build farms and invite friends to visit them at their homes to show off their progress and achievements.

Mini-games are available in the town’s lobby where special rewards can be unlocked. In the item-based car racing game, Bikini Drift, players get to design their own cars and take it out to race for the best rankings underwater. SpongeBob Town presents various gameplay modes all in a single game hub with a social lobby that ties it all together to deliver a truly immersive world of fun and challenges.

The game is developed with Unity 3D engine, which has enjoyed worldwide success with other games. It supports a wide range of platforms and applications to deliver an unparalleled gaming experience in the comfort of the user’s web browser. SpongeBob Town will feature more game modes in the future, with each mode able to stand alone as a full-fledged game.

Check out the latest on SpongeBob Town:

Game website: www.spongebobtown.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/spongebobtown
Twitter: twitter.com/spongebobtown
Plurk: www.plurk.com/spongebobtown
YouTube: www.youtube.com/spongebobtown

###

About Nickelodeon

Nickelodeon, now in its 33rd year globally and 14th year in Asia, is the number-one entertainment brand for kids. The company has built a diverse, global business by putting kids first in everything it does with a portfolio that extends across television, music, publishing, digital media, mobile and consumer products. Nickelodeon and Nick Jr. are seen in more than 60 million households throughout North and Southeast Asia region with 24-hour programming services including Nickelodeon Southeast Asia, Nickelodeon Japan, Nickelodeon Korea, as well as Nickelodeon branded program blocks and syndications. For more information about Nickelodeon in Asia, visit www.nick-asia.com.

About GigaMedia FunTown

GigaMedia FunTown is a subsidiary of GigaMedia Limited, a NASDAQ listed company, and a major provider of online entertainment software and services in Asia. FunTown’s online game business develops and operates a suite of games in Asia, with focus on web-based/mobile games in emerging markets. More information about GigaMedia FunTown can be obtained from www.funtown.com.tw.

###

But wait, there's more!

If you're interested in acquiring beta test accounts of SpongeBob Town, all you have to do is shake your booty, re-post this article, and leave your complete name and contact email in the comments below. We will forward your information to the proper authorities and they'll get back to you! :D

Smart Launches Unlimited Smart-Sun Calls and Text Plan in One SIM

2012-10-22T18:21:00.001+08:00

Smart has just launched its biggest unlimited offer yet. Starting today, you can now apply for a Smart SIM-only postpaid line for P800/month that features unlimited calls and text to all Smart and Sun Cellular subscribers.

The SIM-only line also features lower P5.00/min calls and P0.50/text rates to THE other network (Globe's the only one left, LOL).

Two Nokia handsets are also available for the Smart-Sun Unlimited Plan with a 24 month lock-in period. Nokia Asha 200 is available for P1000/month while the Windows Phone-powered Nokia Lumia 710 is available for P2000/month.

Globe's been really acting up lately with frequent dropped calls, delayed texts, and their ever famous non-existent WCDMA signal inside buildings. Now, there's more reason to switch.

Globe Launches Tattoo Black LTE

2012-09-28T16:40:00.000+08:00

Globe Telecom has just announced other details on their Globe Tattoo Black 4G LTE plans. Subscribers of Tattoo Black are entitled to unlimited data until January 31, 2013 and will have a monthly cap of 12GB (Plan 1799) and 15GB (Plan 2499) after January 31st.

Tattoo Black will be available in Plan 1799 with a free USB LTE Modem and in Plan 2499 with a free Tattoo LTE SuperStick.

Plan 1799 will have speeds of upto 28Mbps while Plan 2499 will max out at 42Mbps. LTE coverage includes the whole of Makati and a few other cities in Metro Manila. You can apply for a Tattoo Black subscription starting today and it will be activated by October 28th.

Philippine Websites Hacked Because of New Cyber Crime Law

2012-09-27T02:14:00.001+08:00

Philippine hacker group, Anonymous Philippines, has hacked several websites in the Philippines late last night to protest the recently signed Cyber Crime Law.

The group said that the new law effectively ends the freedom of expression in the Philippines by incorporating the 80-yr old libel law to the new Cyber-crime law.

The Philippine Government has just passed a bill that effectively ends the Freedom of Expression in the Philippines.

The Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 is the most notorious act ever witnessed in the cyber-history of the Philippines, and the language of the bill is cunningly designed to make you think it only applies to individuals who are deep in cyber-technology and doesn't apply to everyone, but some part of the bill basically says it can imprison anyone who commits libel either by written messages, comments, blogs, or posts in sites such as Facebook, Twitter, or any other comment-spaces of other social media in the Internet.

New technologies give us new opportunities to connect with a lot of people not only in this country but all over the world. They can also provide us with a medium through which our political, public and even private views can have an immediate and direct impact on individuals, communities and even countries. It is just so disappointing that our government, in adopting our 80-year-old antiquated libel laws to the Cybercrime Law, again seems to have retarded our march with the rest of the world with respect to giving full force to the people's freedom of expression.

We ask for a revision of the said bill for the betterment of the Filipino denizens.

Protect our Right to Freedom of Expression!

#OccupyPhilippines | Anonymous Butuan | PrivateX | #pR.is0n3r
Lo0p th3 Lo0p | l4stl00k | Blackrain | Anonymous Manila

Among the websites hacked are the websites of the Central Bank of the Philippines, Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage Systems (MWSS), Department of Health (DOH), Pilipinas Anti-Piracy Team (PAPT), Department of Environment and Natural Resources - Region 3 (DENR-R3), and the American Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines.

Tokyo Game Show 2012 - Day Two

2012-09-24T02:11:00.001+08:00

For Day Two of the Tokyo Game Show, I unfortunately had to leave a bit early. I did, however, manage to try out several more games, all of which were on the PS3.

HMZ-T2 Demo with God of War: Ascension - The lines for the games using the HMZ-T2 were already full by the time I got to the Sony booth, just 20 minutes after the exhibit opened. They were turning away the people in front of me. Lucky for me, when it was my turn to choose a game, the God of War HMZ demo freed up. I've been really curious to see what this sexy-looking device really does.

(Later in the day I found out that the HMZ-T2 is actually the second version of an original model released last year (hence the "2"). How could I have missed that one?)

Basically it's a 3D headset. Instead of watching 3D content on a 3D TV, you can do so with this gadget. As much as it sounds cool, my experience with it wasn't exactly impressive. First of all, I had trouble with the HMZ. You can adjust the focus for each eye using sliders under the headset, but unfortunately the left eye screen wouldn't focus clearly. It could have been a product defect, or something wrong with my eye (I think my left eye's vision isn't perfect). Nevertheless it resulted in an uncomfortable and somewhat painful experience.

The screen appears to cover a very wide space in front of you, emulating watching video on a movie theater screen. The problem is that, with the lights on in the convention, I could see things under the headset, thus reducing its immersiveness. Perhaps if you were to use this in the dark, it would be much better. The 3D also wasn't very noticeable, though that could just be the game's poor translation of 3D.

Price-wise, the T2, which will be released next month, is going to cost a ridiculous amount of 70,000 Yen. I bought my 3D TV for less than half that price!

As for the actual game, well, it's God of War. The only thing new that I noticed in the gameplay is a time manipulation mechanic. Kratos can reverse time, stop time, or return time back to its original state at certain moments in the game. The mechanic was presented as a way to solve puzzles. For example, reversing time will allow you to raise a fallen platform up in the air and stop it midway, thus letting you jump on it and advance to the next area.

Supposedly, the combat has also be revamped, but I couldn't tell as the last GoW game I played was the first one, and that was quite a few years ago.

Zone of the Enders HD Edition - A classic Kojima production that I've never played before, and being a fan of MGS, of course I had to try this game out.

You play a young boy piloting a flying robot (think Evangelion). I didn't really find the combat mechanics very attractive as it only consisted of getting close to an enemy and jamming the attack button (at least, that's how I played the game). Perhaps as the game progresses, the combat becomes more interesting. Or maybe it has a good storyline? After all, it's been turned into an anime series.

Dust 514 - This is a free to play Sci-Fi FPS that is connected to the MMORPG, Eve Online. Players from the space-themed MMO can hire mercenaries (Dust 514 players) to invade and capture locations in the Eve Online world. These locations serve as the battlefield of Dust 514.

Apart from fighting land battles, Dust 514 users can join Eve Online users to form corporations which organize invasions for the purpose of increasing territory.

In terms of gameplay, well, it's an FPS. I didn't see anything special about the combat. Aim, shoot, grenade, crouch, vehicles, etc. I suppose the connectivity with Eve Online and its deep and ever-changing game world that will affect the world of Dust 514 is what the developers are hoping will attract gamers.

Resident Evil/Biohazard 6 - The demo allows you to play as one of four character, Leon, Chris, Jake, or Ada, with Leon being "easy mode" and Ada as "very hard". I always knew Leon was a wuss.

Biohazard has totally left the survival horror genre. This game is essentially a full-fledged third-person shooter. Aiming no longer locks you into position like it did in Biohazard 4 and 5, and you can now take cover in almost any location.

Using Chris, without consciously trying to save bullets, I was constantly shooting an SMG and didn't run out of rounds until the end of the stage. Additionally, at that point, I still had an unused pistol with over a hundred rounds. It seems running out of ammo isn't a major concern anymore.

The only thing that gave the game a bit of "suspense" is your view. The camera is zoomed in rather close to your character, which greatly restricts what you can see, hence the ever looming possibility of an undetected enemy being right beside you.

Still great fun though. Should be really good playing on coop with a friend.

Yakuza/Ryu ga Gotoku 5 - Running on an entirely different engine, Ryu ga Gotoku 5 looks even more amazing than the last installment. It also promises to have the largest game world in the series. You can now play as one of four characters, though it seems the main story mode is still played chiefly with Kiryu. Not like I'd want to play as anyone else. Kiryu is pretty badass.

The fighting mechanics appear to have remained mostly unchanged, though I did notice some new special moves (activated with the triangle button when Kiryu's spirit energy is charged). One has Kiryu using a guy's face to scrub the floor. Awesome.

...

Revocation of Saddest Booth Award

I have to say that the Iran National Foundation of Computer Games' booth has improved a bit. While it was almost empty last Thursday, the next day they had posters and pamphlets out.

I talked to a volunteer at the booth, who actually didn't really know much (the representative was at a meeting). She said that the foundation wasn't involved in game development, but instead is active in various projects to support the game industry in Iran.

So, the Saddest Booth award has been revoked, and now it shall go to... Glass Egg Digital Media, a Vietnamese organization.

I mean, come on. Just look at their booth. There wasn't even anyone manning it.

No posters, no pamphlets, no people. The only thing that was in the booth were these things below, and I had no idea what they were.

Back home I checked the internet for more information about Glass Egg, and apparently this group is quite established, having been in the industry for 14 years. They worked on several projects, many of which are racing games, including Forza for the Xbox 360. That's pretty impressive. So why do they have such a bare booth?

...

For now, that'll be all for the Tokyo Game Show. I wish I had more time to stay. I usually try to get my hands on the many amateur and student-made games, but this year that proved to be impossible. Oh well, 2013 will bring another event.

Tokyo Game Show 2012 - Day One

2012-09-20T23:56:00.000+08:00

Well, it's that time of the year again, when video game companies come together to show off their latest products at the Tokyo Game Show, which as you probably know isn't actually in Tokyo (see TGS 2012 press release).

The 2012 Tokyo Game Show's slogan is “Spreading smiles through Games” as very clearly games do make us smile, much like we do when we perform God of War's sexual quick-time events.

Accompanying me to the trade show is a man who is referred to as Mr. Size, a sort of former rockstar, and a person who may very well become a sort of rockstar again in the future.

Quite similarly to 2011's TGS, about half of the booths, if not more, are focused on social and mobile games. That seems to be the trend these days after all. But rest assured that that is by no means any sign that our wonderful console counterparts are lagging behind the times as some awesome home and portable console games were on display today.

And this is a bear. I don't know what he was promoting, but he was there.

Some of the games I played, and I wish this were in an order paid for by corporations, were:

DmC: Devil May Cry (Xbox 360)

Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance(PS3)

Medal of Honor: Warfighter (PS3)

Monster Hunter 4 (3DS)

Need for Speed: Most Wanted (PS3)

Dead or Alive 5 (PS3)

Ryu ga Gotoku 1 & 2 HD (PS3)(This is known in English as Yakuza)

Lost Planet 3 (Xbox 360)

I think that's it. And now for some impressions:

DmC: Devil May Cry – Should we call the next Street Fighter, “SF: Street Fighter”, or the next Legend of Zelda, “LoZ: Legend of Zelda?”

The omission of a number on the title represents a departure from the old. This game occurs in a parallel universe where Dante is a young 20 year old man, which means he cannot drink beer in the United States.

To tell you the truth, I don't really know much about Devil May Cry. I once played a version of it on the PS2 and gave up when I couldn't beat the giant crab boss of level 1. You still use a gun and a blade, so that much I can tell hasn't changed.

Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance – It's MGS with a sword, and all moves appear to kill rather than having some moves that only temporarily disable. It is still has stealth elements, but the tutorial focused on chopping stuff up with your sword, so I ended up playing it like an action game. This I soon figured out wasn't the way to play the Revengeance. Fighting multiple targets at the same time was difficult, and I died a couple times.

The cutting mechanic I thought was amazing. You can hold on the L1 button to slow time down and use the Right Analog Stick to make a cut with your sword, which can be directed depending on the angle at which you move the stick. This allows you to make precision cuts, good for taking enemies down who are holding hostages. It seems you can also cut through most things. I cut down the supports of a bridge at the beginning of the mission, and this made the bridge collapse.

By the way, Hideo Kojima was there! Want to touch.

Medal of Honor: Warfighter – Set in Isabela, Basilan, the bad guys, who are, I guess, supposed to be ASG, are speaking in Tagalog. “Mamamatay kayo!” cried one bandit as he threw a grenade my way. Luckily my character was an American soldier, who as we all know have regenerative health.

I don't think they speak Tagalog in Basilan, do they?

Great controls, good graphics, destructible environments. Can't say how multiplayer is going to be, but at least the single player mission looks okay.

Monster Hunter 4 – In all my time in Japan I had not once played what is one of the best selling game franchises in the country. Sitting down with the 3DS in my hand, I teamed up with Mr. Size and 2 random Japanese members of the press. The lady in our booth asked us if we have ever played MonHan before. And of course, I was the only person in the group who said “no”, to which I felt some cold stares from the Nihonjins in our team, and produced a somewhat shocked look from the MonHan lady. This is clearly a transgression on my part as a gamer in Japan, but was quickly rectified today.

It was good. And I managed not to get killed.

At the end of the demo, the booth lady guiding us complimented me for being such a quick learner and for not dying in the game. I smiled and responded with modesty, but little did she know that half the time I was actually running away from the monster, drinking potions, and getting lost.

Need For Speed: Most Wanted – A game with the same name as the NFS installment released in 2005, this and DmC leads me to think that game companies are running out of good ideas for game titles. It was, however, a fun and well-crafted racer, with elements of Burnout Paradise. This shouldn't be a surprise though, since it is being developed by Burnout Paradise developer Criterion.

The multiplayer mode consisted of what seemed to be about 4 modes all played on the same city one after the other seamlessly without pausing for loading screens. If you can imagine the multiple multiplayer modes of Killzone 2 and 3 that occur in one gaming session, it's pretty much the same concept.

The first mode had us speed through some point on the road. The faster your speed was when you pass that point, the more points you get. The next one had each racer ram into each other. Then the next was a simple race from point A to B. Finally the game had us attempt a long jump off a ramp. Getting farther jumps racks you more points.

EA had a nice little promo of giving the the best player out of 8 a free T-shirt. Unfortunately I landed in 2^nd place with a score of 1725 points. The top guy had 1800.

Dead or Alive 5 – Likely the most fun game I played in the show so far. Mr. Size and I had no idea how to do any of the special moves, but just being able to dress up the female characters in bikinis and have them beat the hell out of each other was pure joy. We must have looked like the biggest pervs in the convention center.

Ryu ga Gotoku 1 & 2 HD – I actually wanted to play Biohazard 6 instead, but quite literally as I stepped up to take my game stub to play the demo, they had stopped letting people line up for it. So, on the spot I had to make a decision, and Yakuza it was.

This was good old Ryu ga Gotoku but with new HD visuals. Of course everything still looks very much like chunks of polygons, but the textures have been reworked. The same controls that are now a standard in the series is still there, so I found myself quickly bashing gangster heads like it was 2005 all over again. After all these years, brutally jamming your heel into the head of a man lying helplessly on the ground hasn't grown old. Definitely a must-have for fans of the series.

Lost Planet 3 – Played multiplayer with Mr. Size. Basically it was like Killzone plus Gears of War cover system. The voice acting even reminded me of the Helghast.

That's all I'm going to say about it.

...

Tomorrow I plan to hit Biohazard 6, Assassin's Creed III, Zone of Enders HD, and Ryu ga Gotoku 5. I also want to get my hands on the Wii U. There is a demo of Tekken Wii U running on Nintendo's next generation system. Very exciting indeed!

...

And now for the TGS 2012 Awards - Day One!

BEST MOST MYSTERIOUS YET LIKELY TO FAIL PERIPHERAL

This award goes to Sony for the HMZ. I don't know what it is and I am too lazy to Google it. Is it a virtual reality TV thing? I hope to find out tomorrow if/when I try this peripheral out. Looks interesting though, don't ya think?

WORST PICTURE WITH MODEL

Doesn't he look like he's jabbing his gun in my face?

MOST SLIGHTLY ODD LIFE-SIZE FIGURE OF A GAME CHARACTER

I'm sorry to have to make you do this, but please take a gander at Snake's crotch. It seems as if something is coming out of his pants, or some kind of rock formation is stuck on his genital area.

BIGGEST DISAPPOINTMENT

They changed the Chicken Basket at the food court. Previously it had been real, juicy fried chicken, bones and all, with fries. It was the cheapest, most satisfying meal available at the show. Today I noticed that the chicken was replaced with some kind of boneless chicken chunks, and all together the chicken was mostly batter.

SADDEST BOOTH

This one goes to the Iran National Foundation of Computer Game. Their booth had close to nothing in it. There was one table and one chair, and two guys talking to each other. No consoles, no computers, no games.

Oh, and there were some documents on the table.

I was kind of hoping to see an FPS where the Americans were the bad guys, or something like that. I'll try to have chat with them tomorrow to see what's up.

BEST BOOTH

Sony, hands down, had the best booth. There were a TON of games being demoed for PS3, PS Vita, and the PSP. They even had several HMZ units for use. Their booth was clearly made for the public days... people will go there because they want to play games, and Sony has prepared for this having what must be over 100 systems ready for players.

SMARTEST NO SHOW

This last award goes to Microsoft. I think they understand it now. Microsoft will not seize Nintendo or Sony's grasp of the console market in Japan. Ever. Therefore there is just no point to showing up at TGS. Good job, MS.

...

That's it for now. I leave you with random pictures. Mostly of girls. And sorry for the layout, I can't seem to fix it properly.

Tecmo Koei

Capcom

Bandai Namco

More Bandai Namco

And more Bandai Namco

The Capcom shop

No idea what Gloops is

No line, no love for Lost Planet 3

She appears to be happy with what she is doing. I would be, too.

Metal Gear Rising

Dudes playing Monster Hunter 4

MonHan folks

More MonHan folks

More Capcom

Some kind of MonHan monster

Nice shirt

NFS Most Wanted

Ryu ga Gotoku 5 (Yakuza 5)

These folks always have a great set for their booth ladies.

She was nice enough to give me a smile even though I took a picture from the side. Awww.

Square Enix booth

Tales of Xilla 2

No line at MoH as well. Sad.

Tokyo Game Show 2012 (Press Release)

2012-09-20T18:33:00.000+08:00

Press Release

September 20, 2012

Computer Entertainment Supplier’s Association

Nikkei Business Publications, Inc.

The “TOKYO GAME SHOW 2012” Opens!

Exhibition by 209 companies/organizations from 19 countries/regions. A record number of 1,043 titles applied for exhibition. The total number of booths is 1,609!

The Computer Entertainment Supplier’s Association (CESA; Chairman: Shin Unozawa; Location: Minato-ku, Tokyo), in cooperation with Nikkei Business Publications, Inc. (Nikkei BP; President & CEO: Kohei Osada; Location: Minato-ku, Tokyo), will hold the “TOKYO GAME SHOW 2012” over a four-day period from Thursday, September 20 to Sunday, September 23, 2012 under the theme of “Spreading Smiles through Games.

The first two days of the show (Sep. 20 & 21) will be “Business Days” for the relevant parties in the game industry while the later two days (Sep. 22 & 23) will be “Public Days.”

Exhibitors of the TOKYO GAME SHOW 2012 are from 19 different countries and regions, including Japan, and the total number of exhibitors is 209 corporations and organizations (126: domestic, 83: overseas). The total number of booths is 1,609. A record number of 1,043 titles applied for exhibition.

[“TOKYO GAME SHOW 2012” Preliminary Statistics]

(as of September 19, 2012)

-Number of exhibitors: 209 (last year: 193)

-Number of exhibiting titles: 1,043 (last year: 736)

-Number of booths: 1,609 (last year: 1,250)

-Exhibiting countries and regions: 19 (last year: 16)

[Countries and regions exhibiting at the TOKYO GAME SHOW2012]

・Chile

・China

・Denmark

・Finland

・France

・Hong Kong

・Indonesia

・Iran

・Ireland

・Japan

・Malaysia

・Poland

・Russia

・South Korea

・Switzerland

・Taiwan

・U.K.

・U.S.A.

・Vietnam

　(alphabetical order)

[Exhibition titles]

As seen in the trend of the titles (including goods) to be exhibited in 2012, the number of smartphone titles and tablet titles significantly increased over the last year.

[List of titles to be exhibited by platform and genre]

(as of September 19, 2012)

■Platform - No. of titles

□PC - 32

□Smartphone - 265

　iOS (139)

　Android (126)

□Tablet - 100

　iOS (100)

□Feature phone 142

　NTT docomo (47)

　au (48)

　Softbank (47)

□Nintendo DS - 2

□Nintendo 3DS - 34

□Wii - 5

□Wii U - 2

□PlayStation 3 - 57

□PlayStation Portable - 30

□PlayStation Vita - 24

□Xbox 360 - 24

□Others(*1) - 326

★TOTAL 1043

■Genre - No. of titles

□Role playing - 148

□Action(*2) - 118

□Simulation - 96

□Online card game(*3) - 48

□Sports - 31

□Tactical role playing(*4) - 24

　(Simulation role playing)

□Card game - 23

□Online role playing - 21

□Shooting - 21

□Adventure - 14

□Puzzle - 11

□Racing - 11

□Action adventure - 8

□Others (genre) - 116

□Development tools - 9

□Peripherals - 22

□Others (goods) - 322

★TOTAL 1043

*1 This platform includes ”peripheral” and “goods.”

*2 This genre includes “shooting action games.”

*3 This genre includes “online trading card games.”

*4 This genre includes “RPG simulation games.”

[Trial play of Z-rated game titles]

At TOKYO GAME SHOW 2012, in accordance with the rating systems of CESA and CERO codes of ethics, trial play of Z-rated games and games including Z-rated expressions will be limited to players aged 18 and older. If you wish a trial play of a game title to which an age limit applies, you will be required to present a document that proves your age (driver’s license, passport, student ID, etc.). Players aged 18 years and older should bring such a document.

[Outline of the TOKYO GAME SHOW 2012]

Event Title: TOKYO GAME SHOW 2012

Organized by: Computer Entertainment Supplier’s Association (CESA)

Co-organized by: Nikkei Business Publications, Inc. (Nikkei BP)

Supported by: Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry

Period: September 20 (Thursday) Business Day (10:00 - 17:00)

　　　　September 21 (Friday)　 Business Day (10:00 - 17:00)

　　　　September 22 (Saturday)　Public Day (10:00 - 17:00)

　　　　September 23 (Sunday)　　Public Day (10:00 - 17:00)

* Admissions on Business Days are limited to members of the industry

and the media.

* On Public Days, the doors may be opened at 9:30 depending

on circumstances.

Venue: Makuhari Messe (Mihama-ku, Chiba City, Chiba Prefecture)

　　　 Exhibition Hall 1-8, and International Convention Center

No. of visitors: 195,000 (estimated)

No. of exhibitors: 209 companies and organizations

No. of booths: 1,609 units

Tickets(Public Day): Adult: advance tickets, \1,000; at the door, \1,200 (tax inclusive)

　　　　　　　　 Elementary school age or younger: free of charge

■TOKYO GAME SHOW Official Website: http://tgs.cesa.or.jp/english/

Nintendo Announces Nintendo TVii

2012-09-14T03:07:00.001+08:00

"COSPLAY" Registered as a "Word Mark" in the Philippines

2012-09-13T17:26:00.000+08:00

So apparently, the word COSPLAY has been registered as a trademark or "word mark" in the Philippines by Tanya Obedoza-Bairan of Cosplay.PH™. A quick search on the website of the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines will yield 3 results on the word "COSPLAY™"

COSPLAY PHILIPPINES™, COSPLAY.PH™, & COSPLAY™ have all been registered by Tanya Bairan in 2011. COSPLAY PHILIPPINES™ and COSPLAY™ have been registered as a "word mark" while COSPLAY.PH™ was registered as a logo.

The scope of the registration on COSPLAY PHILIPPINES™ and COSPLAY™ states:

ADVERTISING, BUSINESS MANAGEMENT, BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION, DISSEMINATION OR CIRCULATION OF ANNOUNCEMENTS CONCERNING ALL KINDS OF GOODS OR SERVICES BRINGING TOGETHER FOR THE BENEFIT OF OTHERS OR OF GOODS, AND TO PROVIDE A VENUE TO ENABLE PURCHASERS TO CONVENIENTLY VIEW OR PURCHASE GOODS
--
CONDUCTING TRAINING AND EDUCATION OF PERSONS, ORGANIZING
ACTIVITIES FOR ENTERTAINMENT SPORTS, CULTURAL AND RECREATIONAL
PURPOSES, AS WELL AS ACTIVITIES INTENDED TO ENTERTAIN, AMUSE OR TO
ENGAGE ATTENTION, CONCEPTUALIZING AND ORGANIZING EXHIBITIONS AND COMPETITIONS, CONDUCTING CONFERENCES AND SYMPOSIUMS, SEMINARS AND WORKSHOPS INCLUDING THE DISTRIBUTION OF MATERIALS TO PROMOTE THEIR SERVICES AND EVENTS, OPERATING LENDING LIBRARIES AND BUSINESS OF RENTAL OF EQUIPMENTS AND OTHER PARAPHERNALIA, AND PUBLICATION OF BOOKS; ORGANIZATION OF EVENTS

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So what does this mean in the local cosplay™ scene? Do organizers or people have to pay Tanya fees every time they use the word cosplay™?

(via mistervader)

(UPDATE 09/14/2012): Cosplay.PH™ has released an official statement,

It has been brought to our attention that there are concerns regarding our I.P. wordmark of “Cosplay”. Cosplay.ph Organization Inc. would like to make an official statement regarding this issue.

The wordmark “cosplay” is indeed registered under Ms. Tanya Bairan, one of the directors of Cosplay.ph. Cosplay.ph applied for the wordmark, along with its trade name and all other names created under Cosplay.ph to establish its official status as an organization that focuses on cosplay events.

Initially, Cosplay.ph had applied for its own trademark as “Cosplay.ph” along with “Cosplay Philippines” and registering under NICE Classifications of Services number #35 and #41 which falls under the exclusive use of the wordmark for events. After considerable debate, we decided to apply for the word mark “cosplay” as well since the availability of “cosplay” itself, if taken by someone else, could invalidate our two previous trademarks.

The purpose of the wordmark was pre-emptive in order to keep the word “cosplay” safe so that it cannot be used to impede us from organizing cosplay events, because it is very closely associated with our branding. We believe that this measure was imperative for us to grow and flourish and so that we can continue to develop world-class events that we all know Filipino Cosplayers deserve.

Since the wordmark was approved, we have not enforced it in court nor asked for any royalties from any organization that uses “cosplay” in their event names; and, in cases where there was too much of a similarity between our branded events, we simply requested that they adjust their event title to avoid confusion. In fact, in these cases, we even ended up assisting them in their endeavors.

For the community’s peace of mind, you can use the word “cosplay” in your events and organizations as long as it does not cause any confusion between those events and the ones established by Cosplay.ph. You can make use of the terms like Cosplay Café, Cosplay Shoes, Cosplay Props or even Cosplay Candy as they are not events. This also does not inhibit you from classifying yourself as a Cosplayer, Cosplay Enthusiast or even Cosplay Photographer. The NICE Classifications of Services number #35 and #41 will assure you of that freedom to use it freely outside event names.

We understand how much the word cosplay means to you as it’s also equally important to us as Cosplay.ph is composed of Cosplayers and/or Cosplay Enthusiasts. Again, the intention of the word mark was a pre-emptive measure to ensure the protection of the brand in order to allow us to continue to provide you with the best possible events without the shadow of legal entanglements.

Cosplay.ph Organization, Inc.

Globe Tattoo Black is Globe 4G LTE

2012-09-09T07:52:00.000+08:00

It's official and you read it here first. Globe 4G LTE will be called Tattoo Black. It will have a maximum 42Mbps downstream and postpaid plans will start at P1799.

Plan 1799 comes with free USB dongle and runs at speeds of up to 28 Mbps. Customers have the option to upgrade their device to a SuperStick for a minimum additional charge of only P150 a month.

Tattoo Black 2499 will be running at speeds of up to 42 Mbps. With a dedicated hotline, priority handling in stores and a personal relationship manager to handle all the Tattoo Black customer needs.

Plan 2499 subscribers will also have complimentary tickets to Tattoo parties, MIASCOR Lounge Access Extension Card, credit limit extension and priority reservation on Globe handset and tablet devices.

No mention if this will be unlimited or not. I guess, this will be similar to the recently launched Smart LTE which costs P3500 for 10GB of data.

With Smart LTE Plan 3500, you receive:

A Smart LTE dongle (Huawei E392) that is capable of going at blistering speeds of up to 42Mbps
10GB of data
Expanded coverage in key cities around the Metro
P3,500 per month
P450/GB charging in excess of the 10GB
Compatibility with 2G/3G/HSPA/HSPA+ networks for areas where no LTE is available.
24 months lock in period

More info about Globe Tattoo Black can be found at tattoo.globe.com.ph

Globe Telecom to Offer Nano SIMs This Month

2012-09-06T23:23:00.002+08:00

Globe Telecom is now gearing up to offer the new Nano-SIMs in Globe Stores this September as it provides subscribers a new and better mobile experience.

The Nano-SIMs are new generation subscriber identity module (SIM) cards for the latest generation of smartphones and handsets running on the most modern mobile network technologies. Globe has ordered as much as 5x more Nano-SIMs than its regular SIM stocks, anticipating high customer demand when smartphones running on Nano-SIMs are offered in the market.

According to the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI), the new Nano-SIM cards will be 40% smaller than the Micro-SIM, the smallest SIM card design to date, and will measure 12.3 millimeters wide, 8.8 millimeters high, and 0.67 millimeters thick.

“The Nano-SIM cards are packaged and distributed in a way that is backward- compatible with existing SIM cards. The new design will offer the same functionality as all current SIM cards,” added ETSI. “When Nano-SIM cards enter production, their size will free up room inside mobile phones for additional memory and larger batteries, helping phone vendors create thinner devices”, revealed Giesecke & Devrient, a global pioneering innovator that provides end-to-end solutions for identification systems and mobile security applications.

“Once again, Globe pioneers in bringing the latest technologies to Filipino mobile phone users as we offer the revolutionary Nano-SIMs in our Globe Stores with the availability of newer smartphone models using this type of SIM very soon. With the Nano-SIM and its stunning features and specifications, our smartphone experience will definitely be taken to another level,” said Martha Sazon, Head of Globe Postpaid.

The ETSI produces globally-applicable standards for Information and Communications Technologies (ICT), including fixed, mobile, radio, converged, broadcast and internet technologies.

Rurouni Kenshin Movie in the Philippines

2012-09-05T01:28:00.001+08:00

Rurouni Kenshin's live-action movie adaptation may soon come to Philippine cinemas after all. The official Facebook page of Pioneer Films Philippines (Movie Punch) just announced that they might be the official distributor of the film instead of Warner Bros. Pictures Philippines.

When asked by a Facebook user Judith Razon if they would locally distribute the film, Warner Bros. Pictures (Philippines) told her that "we don't have the rights to release Rurouni Kenshin here in the Philippines."

Rurouni Kenshin was a popular manga and anime series known in the Philippines as Samurai X. The movie was released by Warner Bros. Pictures (Japan) on August 25 in Japanese cinemas. The movie stars former Kamen Rider Den-O star Takeru Sato as Kenshin Himura, Emi Takei as Kaoru, and former Kamen Rider Skull star Kouji Kikkawa as Udou Jin-e.

Pioneer Films Philippines hasn't released any further details (release date, cinemas, etc.).

UPDATE: Pioneer Films posted a comment on their Movie Punch Facebook Page saying that they are still negotiating with the Japanese producers,

we are posting this for feedbacks before we really negotiate with the production sincce this film is quite expensive,we are making sure na hindi naman kmi malulugi nito, we will update on this page once na confirm na,thanks guys for your comments regarding this film,we will seriously study rhis development

(via Gabrielle)

Smart LTE Launched!

2012-09-04T15:06:00.001+08:00

As time passes by and things are improving fast, I want to do more and more things. Most of my goals can be achieved by going online. Take blogging, for example. I spend 80% of my free time writing articles, editing pictures and thinking of ways to improve my websites. That’s why I cannot imagine living life without being connected online.

Now, if I can only do things faster then I can achieve more. A lot of you might not know this, but I spend at least 5 hours on a single post here in HeaRty’s Haven. Uploading photos online takes about 15-30 minutes considering the large size. However, with a fast connection, I can lessen it to just 5 0r 10 minutes. This is why it is important to choose the right provider for my internet needs.

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