Games

News Pop! 10/30/06

By Eli Green
October 30, 2006 - 23:35

And we're back. It's another week here at News Pop! and we're so glad you could make it. Yes the weather's turning a little grim and there's a chill in the air, but we're feeling warm inside. It's only two more days until November, which means that the new systems are launching soon and we're going to have some serious news to talk about. For now though, we've still got other things to talk about, so we're going to kick off the week with some good news for college basketball fans and kids.

EA's got a new face

Yes that's right, Electronic Arts has added a new face to its large collection, Adam Morrison's. EA has selected the NCAA player to be the new face of NCAA March Madness 07, which is set for release in January. NCAA March Madness 07 will be debuting on Xbox 360 and, so far, looks like it has a very cool new feature set. The press release reads, “Feel the intensity rise, then watch as each player responds differently, trying to maintain composure. As the atmosphere heats up your player composure ratings affect the all-new Intensity Control that changes momentum by allowing you to pump up the crowd, motivate your teammates, raise your own composure or even intimidate your opponent. Plus, become immersed like never before by interacting with student sections, school mascots, cheerleaders, and even the band.” The idea of interacting with the student body doesn't sound too impressive, so we'll have to see how that feature works before we make any final judgement, but fans of NCAA will have a chance to try the game out for themselves, and see just how the new features work, starting November 14^th. The demo will be available on Xbox Live Marketplace for anyone wishing to check out the court. Finally, the game is also set to release for Playstation 2. Both versions should be available January 16^th, 2007.

Children's charities receive $800,000 from the industry

The ESA announced today that its members from the industry raised more than $800,000 last week in support of charities working to improve the health and welfare of children. The funds were raised at the annual “Nite to Unite For Kids” dinner and auction. This year, the funds raised will benefit Web Wise Kids , Hope Lab , Working Achievement Values Education and PAX . The ESA Foundation will also be establishing a scholarship program for minorities and women pursuing educational opportunities in both the computer and video game fields. The night was also used to present this year's ESA Champion's Award to Dan DeMatteo, Vice Chairman and COO of GameStop, for leadership and contributing to the interactive entertainment industry. We, here at News Pop!, find that rather confusing, considering GameStop's primary source of income is used games, from which the industry receives nothing. However, we're sure the ESA had its reasons, so Mr. DeMatteo, congratulations. For more information on the ESA's charitable branch, the ESA Foundation, go to www.theESA.com/foundation .

Activision to release Barbie games

Activision and Mattel announced that their two new Barbie adventure games – Barbie Diaries High School Mystery and Barbie in The 12 Dancing Princesses – began shipping to stores today. The games, are based on Mattel Entertainment's Barbie movies, will allow kids to relive their favourite movie moments and also experience completely new adventures with Barbie and friends. Both games are available for Game Boy Advance and PC for $29.99 USD. For Canadian pricing, please check with your local retailer.

Last Updated: March 3, 2025 - 20:40