Archive for August, 2009

Ghouls, Demons Prepare to Devour ijji.com in Soul of the Ultimate Nation’s First Beta Test

IRVINE, Calif. – Aug. 28, 2009 – Hacking and slashing its way past the average online game, the epic fantasy massively multi-player online role-playing game (MMORPG) Soul of the Ultimate Nation brings evil to its knees during its first closed beta testing (CBT) on the hardcore gaming portal ijji.com. The dark souls playing Soul of the Ultimate Nation’s closed beta will experience for the first time the anticipated MMO’s two warring dynasties grappling for dominance. The first beta period begins today and runs for five days. Daring gamers can sign up at http://sun.ijji.com to participate.

“Soul of the Ultimate Nation brings a unique fantasy element to the superior hardcore gameplay touted by ijji.com,” said Philip Yun, CEO, NHN USA, which hosts ijji.com. “Rebellion, suspense, betrayal and an epic storyline that will blow imaginative minds away, all come together flawlessly in Soul of the Ultimate Nation. Yet again, ijji.com proves its dedication to superior free-to-play content.”

In Soul of the Ultimate Nation’s first beta period, players’ experiences will vary as they choose from multiple classes, including Berkserkers, Dragon Knights, Valkyries and Elementalists. In addition, 100 randomly selected players will receive an exclusive in-game item for use in OBT and beyond: a Siberian Husky pet.

Soul of the Ultimate Nation is a fantasy MMORPG set in a world ravaged by corruption and war. The Immortal Emperor governed the Brakion continent with a dark and secret knowledge in his possession – the existence of Ether. Converting the valuable Ether into dark energy and using it to conquer the entire continent with his terrifying, demonic armies, the Immortal Emperor impoverished the land causing the ruling classes to turn to alliances with neighboring nations to continue its supremacy. Stemming from oblique dealings and intimate secrets among the royal families, two opposing dynasties blossomed. Enveloped in graphically stunning settings and intricate story lines, dotted with harrowing surprises lurking behind dark shadows, players will relish in the ever-expanding fantasy world that is Soul of the Ultimate Nation.

Online gamers interested in taking on the ominous advancing armies in Soul of the Ultimate Nation’s CBT can sign up and download the game’s client at: http://cdn.ijjimax.com/nhnusa/games/arcade/U_SUN/setup/SUNInstaller.exe.

The beta testing period will run daily from 2 p.m. – 10 p.m. through Tuesday, Sept. 1.

About ijji.com

ijji.com (www.ijji.com) is the leading portal for hardcore online gaming. Owned and operated by Irvine, Calif.-based NHN USA, Inc., ijji.com launched in 2006 and now boasts more than eight million unique registered gamers. The portal hosts a diverse suite of hardcore, fast action free-to-play online games, each with an optional micro-currency model. ijji.com’s extensive game portfolio includes GUNZ The Duel®, SOLDIER FRONT™, GUNBOUND® Revolution, DRIFT CITY™, LUMINARY Rise of the GoonZu™ and MINING BOY™, and will soon include the highly-anticipated Unreal Engine 3-based MMOFPS game Huxley: The Dystopia and the fantasy MMORPG Soul of the Ultimate Nation.

About WEBZEN Inc.

Founded in 2000 and based in Seoul, South Korea, WEBZEN Inc. (KOSDAQ and NASDAQ: WZEN) has become a leader in the MMOG market and has developed some of the world’s top online game and client/server technologies. WEBZEN is continuing the tradition of MU Online, which boasts more than 56 million registered users, with Soul of the Ultimate Nation and an array of exciting game titles slated for release in the world’s game market. WEBZEN also developed the MMOFPS Huxley: The Dystopia, one of the most anticipated online games of 2009. For more information on the company and its products, please head to www.webzen.com.

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Two TRITTON Headsets Crank Up the Volume for Best Buy

VISTA, Calif. – Aug. 27, 2009 – Stimulus package, step aside – TRITTON headsets are going local, providing gamers relief from money woes and mediocre gaming. From Sept. 1, 2009, TRITTON Technologies, a leader in gaming audio technology, will be exclusively selling two of its high-caliber headsets, the AX 180 and AX 720, at the world’s largest specialty consumer electronics retailer, Best Buy.

“During these challenging times, TRITTON continues to provide innovative high performance products. The AX 180 and AX 720 outperform any competition and create a class of their own.” said Christopher Von Huben, president, TRITTON Technologies. “The quality of our headsets is absolutely unrivaled, and gamers will love not only our innovative features but the value we provide when they buy our products at Best Buy.”

Delivering superior voice communication and precise audio, the AX 720 takes full advantage of the Dolby 5.1 audio found on Xbox360, PS3 and PC games by replicating the individual audio details as they were meant to be heard. During crucial gaming moments, the inline audio controller featuring independent voice and volume controls provides a seemingly true-to-life aural environment - when clearly communicating with teammates can change one’s fate from annihilation to victory. By using Dolby headphone technology the AX 720 delivers a simulated 3D audio encounter that transitions the gaming experience from the virtual to the real world.

Serving high fidelity stereo sound through its performance balanced speakers, the AX 180 ensures the highest quality, brain-rumbling audio with independent game and chat volume controls for a recession-friendly price. Designed to convey audio and communication from the Xbox360, PS3 and PC as intended, along with the ability for analog connectivity with the ever-popular Wii system, the AX 180 establishes itself as a high performance universal stereo headset for $69.99.

Both gaming headsets are optimized for computer gaming with a USB connection for both PC and Mac®, while also being equipped with breakaway cables that allow connection to MP3 players or iPhones with use of optional cables - making TRITTON a universal option for headsets. TRITTON’s AX 180 and AX 720, selling at $69.99 and $129.99 respectively, will be found among the blurred crowd of competitor’s products on the elite shelves of Best Buy, and available at www.bestbuy.com.

About TRITTON Technologies
TRITTON Technologies is based in Vista, Calif., and is a manufacturer of high-performance, consumer electronics and computer peripheral products. TRITTON takes pride in creating innovative products that offer superior functionality and reliability. Visit TRITTON Technologies’ website at www.trittonusa.com.

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ijji.com Reactor Simplifies Login, Download with Integrated Application

IRVINE, CALIF. – Aug. 25, 2009 – For all online gamers whose gameplay is hindered by logins and downloads for every title they play – ijji.com just answered your prayers with the launch of the ijji Reactor. The ijji Reactor is an integrated game launcher that enables users to easily download and start any and all of the hardcore online games offered on the 8 million-strong portal.

“The ijji Reactor stands to completely streamline the way players access their favorite games,” said Philip Yun, CEO, NHN USA, Inc. “The integrated application lets ijji.com users skip the traditional, often cumbersome process of repeated logins for each game, allowing them to jump right into the heat of combat. The game launcher gives our players the benefit of being able to seamlessly access all games from one convenient place.”

The ijji Reactor allows players to do everything from downloading and launching games to actually logging in and playing from one central location – without having to visit the portal directly. The integrated application appears as a small desktop shortcut eliminating the need for multiple game clients cluttering users’ screens. The new game launcher is compatible with all current ijji.com titles, and will soon include the highly anticipated Alliance of Valiant Arms, an Unreal Engine 3-based multi-player first-person shooter (MOFPS), among other future games.

Coinciding with ijji.com’s plans for expansion to Europe, the ijji Reactor is available with multi-language support. At launch the application accommodated English, Spanish and German, allowing all fans a more personalized and localized gaming experience.

Check out more about ijji.com and the new ijji Reactor at the following website: http://www.ijji.com.

About ijji.com

ijji.com (www.ijji.com) is the leading portal for hardcore online gaming. Owned and operated by Irvine, Calif.-based NHN USA, Inc., ijji.com launched in 2006 and now boasts more than 8 million unique registered gamers. The portal hosts a diverse suite of hardcore, fast action free-to-play online games, each with an optional micro-transaction model.

ijji.com’s extensive portfolio includes the renowned online games Lunia, GUNZ The Duel®, SOLDIER FRONT™ and DRIFT CITY™. The portal will soon include the highly-anticipated Unreal Engine 3-powered games Huxley: The Dystopia, a massively multi-player first-person shooter (MMOFPS), and Alliance of Valiant Arms, a multi-player online first-person shooter (MOFPS); in addition to the World War II-era MOFPS KARMA: Operation Barbarossa and the fantasy MMORPG Soul of the Ultimate Nation.

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Squirrels With Scythes, Evil Pumpkins Galore Storm North America In Gamepot’s Bright Shadow

LOS ANGELES – Aug. 24, 2009 – Answering the call for a unique take on massively multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPG), Gamepot (USA), Inc., the U.S. publishing division of Japanese gaming behemoth Gamepot, Inc., is proud to announce its second North American offering, Bright Shadow. Making its way to North American gamers for the first time, Bright Shadow is currently beloved by countless fans around the globe. While the adored MMORPG’s cute, cartoon-like characters and novel monsters – known as “Umbra” – will remain as found in other markets, Gamepot USA is localizing and adapting Bright Shadow with updated storylines, unique new items, and new systems for nearly endless character customization and imaginative new experiences.

“Bright Shadow lets players own their adventure – placing great emphasis on personalized experiences for them and their friends,” said Thomas Lee, director of business and marketing, Gamepot (USA), Inc. “With a focus on creativity, finely-tuned social options and easy-to-learn gameplay, we feel it’s the perfect online entertainment experience to bring to North America as part of our growing roster of free-to-play games.”

The vast Bright Shadow game world – complete with its own ever-changing weather system – places a high emphasis on combat with a horde of unique, deadly monsters and social functions, featuring vigorous guilds and 20 unique classes, a number almost unheard of in traditional MMORPGs; making it ideal for both hardcore and casual audiences alike. Also included in Bright Shadow are an innovative Monster Card system used for a variety of abilities (including monster summons), a “Soul Power” collection system to boost skills, tailored item crafting and original pet systems all geared toward providing a truly customizable undertaking where no two players will be alike.

Bright Shadow is scheduled for release for online PC gaming in late 2009, with closed beta beginning this fall. Like all Gamepot games, Bright Shadow will be a 100% free-to-play experience with the option of purchasing “Pot Cash” for special in-game items further down the line.

For more information, or to sign up for a chance to be part of the beta, please visit www.brightshadow.gamepotusa.com.

About Gamepot (USA), Inc.

Gamepot (USA), Inc. is the U.S. publishing division of Gamepot, Inc., one of Japan’s top gaming firms. Opening its Los Angeles office in August 2008, Gamepot (USA), Inc. is dedicated to providing the best games free of charge, and invites all players to “Taste the fun”. Gamepot has a full course meal of fun, fulfilling games slated for North America and beyond. For more information, please visit http://www.gamepotusa.com

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Alliance of Valiant Arms Invades the Internet

IRVINE, CALIF. – Aug. 24, 2009 –The crosshairs are focused – and no gamer is safe. The modern warfare, Unreal Engine 3-powered Alliance of Valiant Arms (A.V.A.) made its presence known with the release of its first-glimpse website. A.V.A., available soon on the hardcore online gaming portal ijji.com, promises free twitch-based, fast action multi-player online first-person shooter (FPS) gaming, resulting in visceral, intense combat set in a modern day, war-torn Europe. On the new teaser website, eager fans will find a new cinematic trailer-style video, community forms and in-depth articles on the game written by ijji.com staff. With more content promised in the coming months, the teaser site is the optimal primer for players anxious for the urban modern warfare to commence.

“If you like gritty, fast – yet tactical – modern warfare-based multi-player online shooting, stabbing and exploding, the heart-pumping action of Alliance of Valiant Arms will more than satisfy the most discerning FPS gamer,” said Philip Yun, CEO, NHN USA, Inc. “We know hardcore players will appreciate the frenetic pace of the game coupled with the unique setting of an eerily deserted metropolis. Compound that with the superior Unreal Engine 3 graphics, and you won’t believe it’s free.”

Alliance of Valiant Arms brings modern warfare to Europe where a formidable battle has broken out between the European Union (EU) and the Neo Russian Federation (NRF). Players are tasked with picking a side and squaring off in an unprecedented battle amongst skyscrapers and deserted city blocks. With the signature quick-fragging action of the Unreal Engine 3, combat escalates quickly and tensions run high as players anticipate a bloody clash around every corner. Europe has yet to see more ominous missions or relentless enemies as seen on the streets of Alliance of Valiant Arms.
Those players that can’t wait to get their hands on A.V.A. are encouraged to check out the new teaser website at http://ava.ijji.com/teaser.nhn to get more information.

About ijji.com

ijji.com (www.ijji.com) is the leading portal for hardcore online gaming. Owned and operated by Irvine, Calif.-based NHN USA, Inc., ijji.com launched in 2006 and now boasts more than 8 million unique registered gamers. The portal hosts a diverse suite of hardcore, fast action free-to-play online games, each with an optional micro-transaction model.

ijji.com’s extensive portfolio includes the renowned online games Lunia, GUNZ The Duel®, SOLDIER FRONT™ and DRIFT CITY™. The portal will soon include the highly-anticipated Unreal Engine 3-powered games Huxley: The Dystopia, a massively multi-player first-person shooter (MMOFPS), and Alliance of Valiant Arms, a multi-player online first-person shooter (MOFPS); in addition to the World War II-era MOFPS KARMA: Operation Barbarossa and the fantasy MMORPG Soul of the Ultimate Nation.

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ijji.com’s Soldier Front National Tournament Goes International

IRVINE, Calif. – Aug. 20, 2009 –Being an exceptional online gamer now holds greater perks than a mere point-increase on a member account. ijji.com’s popular modern military multi-player online first-person shooter (MOFPS) game, Soldier Front™, is bestowing a new digital camera and a trip to Taiwan to the top five players of this year’s Soldier Front National Tournament. ijji.com is taking applications through Aug. 23 for the highly-competitive tournament, and players and clans can sign up on the game’s official website. The tournament begins on Sept. 26 and runs through Oct. 3, and the World Championship takes place Nov. 7 and 8.

The 2009 Soldier Front National Tournament gives fast-action gaming hopefuls a chance to showcase their raw talent in the strategic war game in a bid for the ultimate prize – flying to Taiwan to frag it out with the best players from around the world in the Soldier Front World Championship this fall. Tournament prizes will go to the top three five-player teams, including iPod nanos, 11-piece in-game Weapon Bomb of choice and excessive amounts of skill points – not to mention the trip to Taiwan for the overall winning team. Not only will the five champions scrap for international glory, proving North American gamers have what it takes, but they will also each take home a Sony digital camera.

In addition to the tournament, August is a hot month for Soldier Front with the release of new sniper maps for all those covert, calculating shooters. With ample hiding spots and intermittent cover perfect for a stealthy attack, the new sniper maps open up countless new scenarios of SAS, Seal and Delta Force operatives’ bloody clashes.

Taking tactical FPS one army crawl closer, Soldier Front is ijji.com’s action-packed answer to the modern warfare FPS. Players take on the likeness of various Special Forces unit leaders, such as SAS, Seal, Delta Force, among others, and implement distinctive task force strategies found in today’s modern combat. Additional information about Soldier Front is available at http://sfront.ijji.com/.

About ijji.com

ijji.com (www.ijji.com) is the leading portal for hardcore online gaming. Owned and operated by Irvine, Calif.-based NHN USA, Inc., ijji.com launched in 2006 and now boasts more than 8 million unique registered gamers. The portal hosts a diverse suite of hardcore, fast action free-to-play online games, each with an optional micro-transaction model.
ijji.com’s extensive portfolio includes the renowned online games Lunia, GUNZ The Duel®, SOLDIER FRONT™ and DRIFT CITY™. The portal will soon include the highly-anticipated Unreal Engine 3-powered games Huxley: The Dystopia, a massively multi-player first-person shooter (MMOFPS), and Alliance of Valiant Arms, a multi-player online first-person shooter (MOFPS); in addition to the World War II-era MOFPS KARMA: Operation Barbarossa and the fantasy MMORPG Soul of the Ultimate Nation.

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TRITTON Sees Double at Best Buy with Two External VGA Video Cards

VISTA, Calif. – Aug. 17, 2009 –The explosion of productivity-minded products hitting the store shelves this past year has caused consumers to go cross-eyed with options. TRITTON Technologies, a leader in high-performance computer peripherals, cuts through the clutter with two of its highly-efficient external VGA video cards, See2 UV150 and See2 Xtreme, at retail giant Best Buy.

“Living in a world where people have to get more done in less time, the See2 UV150 and See2 Xtreme swoop in like superheroes,” said Christopher Von Huben, president, TRITTON Technologies. “From home office users to enterprise businesses, the TRITTON SEE2 line of products brings considerable value to those of us trying to be more productive in a work environment that offers fewer resources.”

The See2 UV150 is a simple and cost-effective way to add a second VGA display to computers at $49.99. No longer is it necessary to go through the expensive and tedious hassle of installing an internal graphics card in order to add an additional display. This straightforward video card connects to a computer via USB 2.0, extending desktops across multiple screens. Increasing productivity by 44%, studies conducted have concluded that using multiple displays instead of one display is a more effective manner to get work done. Whether it be at home surfing the web or at work perfecting spreadsheets, the UV 150 makes life that much easier.

To take it up a notch, TRITTON offers its See2 Xtreme USB to DVI external video card, priced at $79.99, which can add up to six displays to a computer. Upgrading to the See2 Xtreme allows for both Mac and PC users to take full advantage of invaluable efficiency both in terms of time and workload that TRITTON grants with the product. With simple precision, users can transition among extended desktop, mirroring and primary mode. Its patented technology effortlessly integrates into computer systems in no time, immediately empowering its user by offering maximum resolutions for clarity and concision.

The UV150 and See2 Xtreme are two solutions available to anyone, ranging from at-home internet junkies to corporate CEOs. The undeniable benefit behind these VGA video cards further establishes TRITTON Technologies as a leader in the computer peripheral industry. Both of these time-friendly products from TRITTON Technologies can now be found at any Best Buy store as well as on BestBuy.com.

About TRITTON Technologies
TRITTON Technologies is based in Vista, Calif., and is a manufacturer of high-performance, consumer electronics and computer peripheral products. TRITTON takes pride in creating innovative products that offer superior functionality and reliability. Visit TRITTON Technologies’ website at www.trittonusa.com.

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All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Press contacts for TRITTON Technologies:

Damion Martin / Jason Wonacott
Wonacott Communications, LLC
(310) 477-2871
dmartin@wonacottpr.com / jwonacott@wonacottpr.com

Press contacts for Best Buy Inc., Co.:

Best Buy Public Relations
Best Buy News Center
(612) 292-NEWS
newscenter@bestbuy.com

Huxley: The Dystopia Bestows Second Closed Beta Access to Select Lucky Gamers

IRVINE, CALIF. – Aug. 4, 2009 – It’s been a long time coming, but Huxley: The Dystopia is opening its doors – just a crack. The first twitch-action massively multi-player online first-person shooter (MMOFPS) moves into its second closed beta testing (CBT) stage today, inching closer to its highly-anticipated launch on the leading hardcore gaming portal, ijji.com. This round of CBT is now available to select players, and will continue through Aug.12, 2009.

“In anticipation of Huxley: The Dystopia, the excited rumblings from our community are a loud roar,” said Philip Yun, CEO, NHN USA, Inc. “This unique MMO and FPS hybrid has long captivated the interest of hardcore gamers everywhere, and players want to jump in and see how the fused genres play out. We are anxious to answer those calls for full-length, quality free-to-play titles online. Apologize to your consoles now – with Huxley you’re going to be playing on the PC for quite a while.”

This CBT opens up the full game client to fervent Huxley fans, showcasing a sci-fi world of outlandish characters and frenetic gameplay. Players accepted into the CBT can combat in deadly skirmish battles and adrenaline-rushing missions. Huxley: The Dystopia envelops players in a high-stakes challenge, where opponents are exceptionally savvy and the player versus environment (PvE) threatens gamers’ every move. Complete cities, rebuilt after barely surviving the near demise of civilization, now emerge in this beta, along with countless numbers of missions, weapons, armor, special items and even crafting.

Huxley: The Dystopia is a powerful combination of massively multi-player online (MMO) game character development elements and the twitch-based fast-action gameplay of an Unreal Engine 3-based first person shooter (FPS). Players are thrust into a dynamic world of crisp graphics and realistic environments, where they align themselves with one of two races, Sapiens or Alternatives, in the battle to harness dwindling resources in a war-torn land. Game play is endlessly peppered with attacks from and against the Hybrid, a mysterious third group born of the two races.

Check out more about the drama and history of Huxley: The Dystopia at the website: http://huxley.ijji.com.

About ijji.com

ijji.com (www.ijji.com) is the leading portal for hardcore online gaming. Owned and operated by Irvine, Calif.-based NHN USA, Inc., ijji.com launched in 2006 and now boasts more than 8 million unique registered gamers. The portal hosts a diverse suite of hardcore, fast action free-to-play online games, each with an optional micro-transaction model.

ijji.com’s extensive portfolio includes the renowned online games Lunia, GUNZ The Duel®, SOLDIER FRONT™ and DRIFT CITY™. The portal will soon include the highly-anticipated Unreal Engine 3-powered games Huxley: The Dystopia, a massively multi-player first-person shooter (MMOFPS), and Alliance of Valiant Arms, a multi-player online first-person shooter (MOFPS); in addition to the World War II-era MOFPS KARMA: Operation Barbarossa and the fantasy MMORPG Soul of the Ultimate Nation.

Neo Steam Turns Up the Heat with Realm versus Realm Combat

IRVINE, Calif. – Aug. 5, 2009 – Get ready to let off some steam! For the very first time, Atlus Online’s fantasy-steampunk massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG), Neo Steam: The Shattered Continent, is hosting a realm versus realm (RvR) showdown. Finally, the nations of Chrysalis can engage in all-out, large-scale war to gain glory and proprietorship across the divided lands. The latest update also allows players to utilize guild bases and guild rankings to coordinate and commiserate with fellow members in between exhaustive missions.

“Neo Steam is taking steampunk to never-before-seen levels with realm versus realm play,” says Tyler Kim, Director of the Online Division, Atlus U.S.A., Inc. “Including RvR in the game not only reiterates Atlus Online’s emphasis on including the entire community but also establishes Neo Steam as more than just another MMORPG.”

Atlus Online is known for its dedication to its community, which makes RvR combat a natural addition to the game. In order for players to lead their teams to victory, they need to work together using an array of tactics and tools. In addition to fighting on foot, players will pilot siege engines and construct a multitude of offensive and defensive pylons, such as transport cannons, gun turrets, and zeppelin bombing stations. Players level 50 and up can ride in demolishing siege engines, access never-before-seen areas, and ransack harrowing dungeons to annihilate monsters and solve mind-bending puzzles. Throughout these challenges, players will accumulate varying levels of prestige, which determines their personal and guild rankings. Along with the update comes the comfort of guild bases which grant the top guilds respite from the relentless barrage of the battlefield and which further spur players across the world to compete against each other to demonstrate their guild pride.

The battle over Neo Steam takes place between two warring states – the Kingdom of Elerd and the Republic of Rogwel. As the nations fight for domination over Rope Isle’s resources, the Crom mediators have divided the land so that each faction holds entitlement over a different side of the island. However, ownership of the central region of the island, where Energy Stones are most abundant, has never been allocated. To this day, the nations continue to wage war for dominance over this region, and the battles prove to be very profitable to whichever side can command the castles in the end. Adding to the immersive aspect of the fantasy-steampunk world in Atlus Online’s first MMO, the game also features various forms of steam-based machines and vehicles to interact with.

Gamers, Atlus Online fans, and those eager to partake in the massive battle can visit http://www.neosteam.atlusonline.com for more information and schedules.

About Atlus Online
Atlus Online is the online interactive entertainment division of Atlus U.S.A., Inc., renowned for its proud tradition of publishing exceptional role-playing games with strong niche appeal. The Atlus library of critically acclaimed video games includes Odin Sphere, the Trauma Center series, and the award-winning Shin Megami Tensei series. More information can be found at http://www.atlusonline.com.

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