Ubisoft today announced that it is bringing HAWX to Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and PC this fall. The air combat title is in development by Ubisoft Romania, who worked on the Blazing Angels franchise. Taking place in the year 2012, HAWX put gamers in the seats of over 50 different planes. Set in an era controlled by private military companies, the world is upon global conflict, which is where you come in. What's more, the game supports jump-in co-op throughout its campaign mode, so you can play with up to four players total. It also features a versus mode, in which 16 can battle for experience points and in-game cash, which is used to buy new weaponry.

IGN has the debut trailer, which you can see below.


» Read full story

Creative had a PR nightmare on its hands with its decision to forbid modified Audigy drivers and now the firm is trying to relax the situation:

Creative's initial response was to pull all of his work from the official forums and to send him a cease-and-desist message, but Kawakami now says, "I've been told they will allow me to continue with my mods, except the 'forbidden' ones. . . . I'm also allowed to receive donations."

Indeed, Creative posted a message on its forums in order to re-assert its position. The company starts off by saying it has read the "strong feedback" about its move, and that it failed to make it clear in its initial cease-and-desist note that it does in fact support "independent driver development by independent third parties." The firm adds that Windows Vista's new audio architecture and Microsoft's certification process for audio drivers make it "very difficult for Creative to develop updates for all past products" and that "outside developers have been very helpful." However, Creative says it frowns on "unauthorized distribution of other companies' property."

This somewhat ambiguous message ends with the promise, "We hope to work out a mutually agreeable method for working with Daniel_k in supporting his efforts in driver development. Going forward, we are committed to doing a better job of working more closely with third parties to support their development for our products and our customers."

» Read full story

At IDF several press-members have been able to see Nehalem (next-generation Intel 45nm processors), actually working at a steady 3.2GHz. On an IDF demo machine the Processors tree lists eight "Genuine Intel CPU" entries with an "@ 3.20GHz" next to each of them. This isn't an eight-core CPU, though-the four extra cores are simply the work of Nehalem's simultaneous multi-threading implementation, which should work similarly to the Hyper-Threading feature of old Pentium 4s and Pentium Extreme Editions.

According to a recent press briefing by Intel's Pat Gelsinger, Nehalem chips will feature 256KB of L2 cache per core, 8MB of L3 cache per chip, and an integrated memory controller with support for up to three DDR3-1333 channels. Nehalem CPUs will also feature a number of architectural enhancements that should make them speedier, clock-for-clock, than current Core 2 offerings. The first Nehalem CPUs are scheduled to ship in the fourth quarter, but the rumor mill suggests the chips won't hit mainstream desktops until 2009.

» Read full story

Well, it's not like we didn't expect it. The Crymod website now offers the latest weekly patch news update for Crysis, the recent sci-fi shooter from Crytek. There's not a lot of new info on upcoming patches except that the 1.3 patch is being worked on. In addition, the update includes some word on a workaround to a multiplayer server issue and some news on playing Crysis against actual Crytek team members on April 8 and a very funny "outtake" video from the game.

In an earlier weekly update we already confirmed that Crytek will continue working on patches for Crysis and supporting the community with new updates. Currently our Multiplayer dev team is fully concentrating on the upcoming Patch 1.3. It has been in development for quite a few weeks already, but we do not have a release date available just yet.

As for the content we can already say a bit, but not that much. The patch will not only include bug fixes and further gameplay balancing, we will also introduce new features to it. Unfortunately we cannot tell you too much about the content at this point, but be sure to not miss out the upcoming weekly update next Wednesday since it will include more news and details on the content itself.

» Read full story

AMD 780G & Athlon X2 4850e (ECS A780GM-A)

AMD recently released their AMD 780G mainboard chipset & Athlon X2 4850e processor. A good moment to see what this new chipset can offer. Guru3D took the all new 780G based ECS A780GM-A mainboard. The AMD 780G chipset features integrated DirectX 10 compliant graphics and a wealth of other features. That said, 780G and Athlon X2 4850e performed well.

Especially so when you consider that the CPU retails for only $89 and the CPU with the mainboard will cost around $160. I have been testing a system for a little over a week now with the new 780G chipset and the Athlon X2 4850e. I have to say, I am pretty impressed with the system. It

» Read full story

The Intel Developer Forum in Shanghai started with some hot news as the first wave of low-power Atom CPUs has been unveiled. Built using the 45nm process, the Atom aka Silverthorne processors target Mobile Internet Devices (MIDs) and embedded computing solutions and can brag with a TDPrange that goes from 0.65 to just 2.4 watts and an average power range of 160-220 mW.

Intel expects for its new Atom architecture to target $40B in new markets. "It

» Read full story

For those interested in the new GeForce 9800 GTX 512MB, the product became live in our pricewatch database. You can click on the prices to visit the store directly. We spotted them for 325 bucks already.

• XFX Geforce 9800 gtx 512mb DDR3 pcie 2.0 - $324.99
• PNY XLR8 GeForce 9800 GTX(G92) VCG98GTXXPB Video Card - $329.99
• ZOGIS (?) GeForce 9800 GTX(G92) ZO98GTX-E Video Card - $329.99
• Asus GFORCE 9800GTX PCIE2 512MB DDR3 - $378.99

» Read full story

For the second time around NVIDIA updated it's NVIDIA ForceWare 174.74 driver. This driver comes with full support for all current GeForce graphics cards from the GeForce 6, 7, 8, and 9 series and now comes with WHQL certification on 'some' Graphics cards..

• Supports GeForce 6, 7, 8, and 9 series GPUs including WHQL for these newly released GPUs:
  o GeForce 9800 GX2/GTX
  o GeForce 9600 GT
  o GeForce 8300
  o GeForce 8200
  o GeForce 8100/NVIDIA nForce 720a
  o NVIDIA nForce 730a
• Supports single GPU and NVIDIA SLI
  

» Read full story

The folks from ComputerBase snapped a photo of the Intel Nehalem processor die next to a 1 euro coin at the Intel Developer Forum in Shanghai. Nehalem is a codename for both a processor microarchitecture and a processor. Nehalem will be released in late 2008 for high-end chips and early 2009 for mainstream chips. The microarchitecture is being developed by Intel and is the planned successor to the Core microarchitecture. The processor is expected to debut the microarchitecture. Key features 1 through 8 (or more) cores, Integrated memory controllers supporting DDR3 SDRAM and between 1 and 4 memory channels.

Intel is already well into the development process for Nehalem. Nehalem uses the 45 nm manufacturing methods from Penryn and applies it to the new Nehalem microarchitecture.

» Read full story

Ehm  No, Microsoft hasn't suddenly transformed its 30-inch, multi-touch Surface into a big-ass cellphone. But it has, however, chosen AT&T to launch the world's first Surface into retail.

Shoppers in New York, Atlanta, San Antonio, and San Francisco will be treated to what amounts to the novelty (at least initially) of learning about a device (Samsung BlackJack II, pictured) by simply placing it atop the Surface. They'll also have the ability to explore interactive coverage maps. Later, users will be able to drag ringtones, graphics and video and drop it into "the phones." Note their use of "the" and not "your" phone in the press release. Nevertheless, we're happy to see Microsoft get the technology out the door on its long march towards consumerdom.

» Read full story

Okay let's call it, the death of the PC Games stores is near. Digital downloads are the future. This Stream news officially announces that publisher UbiSoft will expand on the number of games it offers via Valve's PC game digital download service.

While Steam has previously offered UbiSoft's Dark Messiah of Might and Magic (powered by Valve's Source engine) this new announcement reveals that UbiSoft will offer up over 40 other games via Steam in the coming weeks. Two full games are already available for download and purchase - Far Cry and the original Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell. In addition, you can currently pre-purchase Assassin's Creed in preparation for its release on April 9th. The current list of Ubisoft titles can be found right here.

» Read full story

Noticeds this one on ggmania.com today,  an extensive list of April Fools' Day Jokes that websites have run each year. Go laugh:-)

• Assassins's Solid Video - In a rare inter-publisher crossover, this YouTube video shows off some (April Fool's) gameplay that has Solid Snake of Konami's Metal Gear Solid 4 dressed as UbiSoft's Altair of Assassin's Creed.
• Duke Nukem Forever Concept Artwork - 3DRealms has just released today a brand new, never before seen concept artwork of Duke Nukem Forever as well as a new corporate logo!
• Diablo III Announcement - Blizzard Entertainment today reluctantly unveiled Diablo III, the third groundbreaking title in its highly acclaimed role-playing game series and sequel to the award-winning Diablo II: Lord of DestructionTM, at the company's very first surprise press conference at its newly opened headquarters.
• Grand Theft Auto 4 includes masturbation and explicit sexual references - Extended details found in the recently published GTA 4 BBFC classification have revealed new details about the sexual content of Rockstar's anticipated title. This includes sexual references, prostitution, lap dancing and portrayed masturbation
• HL2 Episode 3 Delayed until 2010 - Planet Half-Life has received word from an employee at Valve that Episode 3 has been delayed until some time in 2010!
• Legend Of Zelda Movie Trailer - It's so good it might actually give some Hollywood studio some real ideas :-)
• Microsoft's New Xbox 360 Accessories - Xbox.com show off some newly revealed Xbox 360 consoles and accessories, including a wireless helmet with 5.1 surround sound, a "Vintage Edition" Xbox 360 console complete with retro joystick, an Xbox 360 Recon edition that's rugged and has solar power and "Xbox Live: The Board Game".
• New Lord Of The Rings & D&D Online Content  - Turbine enters the April Fool's Day news race with word on some new free content coming to their fantasy MMO Lord of the Rings Online. Turbine's other fantasy MMO Dungeons and Dragons Online gets the April Fool's Day treatment with word on new "content" for the game.
• Postal's 'Cat Silencer' Enters US Army's Arsenal - One of the most controversial implements in the Postal game series arsenal-the 'Cat Silencer'-is now part of real world, cutting edge weapons technology.
• World Of Warcraft Comes To Consoles - Blizzard continues their April Fool's Day fun with their post announcing that their hit MMO game World of Warcraft will be coming to consoles
• Other April Fool Jokes - Black Mesa: Source purchased by EA, Metal Gear Solid 4 GamePlay Footage,  Planet Electronic Arts , The Diablo Loot Piqata, Virgle: The Adventure of Many Lifetimes

And some more:

Read - Space bot demands to be called "Dextre the Magnificent"
Read - Windows XP running on the iRex iLiad
Read - iPhone_iTouch_2.0_Beta_5a225c_ipsw
Read - Free Nokia 6630 bundled with Girl Talk mag for tweens
Read - Google's gDay with MATE searches the future
Read - Toshiba announces HD DVD+
Read - Think Geek's Betamax to HD-DVD Converter
Read - Qualcomm's HandSolo
Read - FireFold's Ultra High-Performance Coat Hanger
Read - Virgin and Google form Virgil for Mars expedition
Read - Xbox 360 Wireless Helmet, Board Game

» Read full story

GeForce 9800 GTX 512 - (Single & SLI) review

Today is the day that NVIDIA launches it's GeForce 9800 GTX series of graphics cards. Guru3D will bring you two reviews on these products being launched today.

A respin product series aimed at the enthusiast gamer, that is what the 9800 GTX is all about. Minor tweaks, some improvement, pretty equal to GeForce 8800 GTX performance is what the 9800 GTX is all about. So what's so hot about the GeForce 9800 GTX you ask ? The price .. expect a 249-299 EUR / 299-349 USD sales price.

As stated Guru3D brings you two reviews:

• GeForce 9800 GTX (Single card) - Point of View
  Direct URL: http://www.guru3d.com/article/Videocards/516/
• GeForce 9800 GTX (SLI) - BFG technology
  Direct URL: http://www.guru3d.com/article/Videocards/518/

Should you feel like having a little chat about this product, check the Guru3D 9800 GTX forum discussion.

» Read full story

It surely took NVIDIA a while yet today they officially released Windows Vista 32-bit NVIDIA 6, 7, 8 and 9 Series 3D Stereo Drivers 
 
Stereo drivers are intended to enable the NVIDIA stereo Control Panel for the support of 3D Glasses. This is a beta driver so there might be a bit of stability issues for you. Then again it has been a long time since NVIDIA released such a driver so it'll make loads of you quite happy. 
 
With this release we finally see proper Windows Vista 32-bit support.

Download - click here

» Read full story

PC maker Dell announced a plan to save $3 billion over the next three years by cutting costs and laying off employees. The firm will close its desktop manufacturing plant in Austin, Texas and will cut about 10 percent of its workforce:
Dell Inc. is also reaffirming its plan -- announced last year -- to cut at least 8,800 jobs, or about 10 percent of its work force. In the last nine months of fiscal 2008, the Round Rock, Texas-based company cut 3,200 jobs.

The company plans a broad range of cost cuts in design, manufacturing and logistics, materials and operating expenses to stay competitive.

Dell is also reviewing alternatives for its financial services business, especially its consumer and small to medium business revolving credit financing receivables. Shares of Dell rose 31 cents to close at $19.92. They added another 28 cents to $20.20 in aftermarket activity.

» Read full story

Would you just take a look at that. Right on cue, Dolby and SIM2 are collaboratively showcasing a 46-inch 1080p display built around the former firm's high dynamic range technology.

The HDR-enabled LCD HDTV boasts 1,836 LED-based backlight units (designed / developed by SIM2), a full 1,920 x 1,080 resolution, brightness level greater than 4,000 cd/m2, an "infinite" contrast ratio, 16-bits of luminance and a Xilinx Virtex field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) chipset. Additionally, the prototype employs a design created by Giorgio Revoldini, and while we can't imagine hearing of a release date anytime soon, the two firms aren't wasting any time putting the new set on a world tour to presumably wow onlookers.

The prototype is a 46-inch LCD with Dolby

» Read full story

A updated version of Sony's PlayStation 3 console has been sent to the FCC, documents show. Any new device with wireless technology must be approved by the FCC; the Sony application notes, however, that the company has only made two minor changes, one of which is merely an adjustment to the construction of the Bluetooth module. The other is a switch to an 80GB hard drive, a boost from the presently-offered 40GB capacity. The storage should allow gamers to keep more games, music, videos and other material.

Sony has sold several different capacity options throughout the PS3's history. The console initially launched in 20 and 60GB versions, but the popularity of the 60GB model led to the 20GB edition disappearing. Both were eventually replaced by 40 and 80GB variants, the latter also having disappeared in recent months. It is unclear why Sony would introduce a second 80GB system, although Microsoft offers a 120GB model of its Xbox 360 console.

» Read full story

Appearantly I complete;y missed out on this one, but earlier in March at the CeBIT EVGA showcased its 17-inch wide dual display

» Read full story

Tomorrow on Guru3D; well, like you guys have no idea what this is eh ? ...

» Read full story

AMD today announced their new ATI FireGL V7700 is the first workstation graphics card with DisplayPort support.

The ATI FireGL V7700 professional graphics accelerator provides superior rendering speed, 3D performance and color fidelity for Computer Aided Design (CAD), Digital Content Creation (DCC) and Medical Imaging professionals. ATI FireGL V7700 delivers the top-quality image quality needed to create photorealistic visualizations of real-world objects and environments

» Read full story