Macintosh Game News (Past News)

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Listed below are past news about Macintosh games in Japan and world-wide. Note: Links with * lead to Japanese pages. Some of versions and links in this page may be outdated.

News of October, 1998

10/30/98 (Fri)

Star Trek: Starship Creator Released

Simon & Schuster Interactive has released Star Trek: Starship Creator. It is a starship construction simulation game where player, as a Starfleet Admiral, designs, builds, staffs, and launches Starships. In the game, the player can build a variety of starships based on 7 classes of well-known Star Fleet vessels with various equipment that can be printed out in 3D. Also, the player can run various missions in real-time to determine the capabilities of the finished starship. The mission mode supports cooperative network play and scripting language to create new missions. Requires PowerPC, System 7.5 or later, RAM 16 MB or larger, 640 x 480/256 colors or better, CD-ROM 4x or faster. Available as hybrid CD-ROM at retail stores in USA or directly for $29.95. (Source: Mach One*, Simon & Schuster Interactive Press Release)

Game Updates

-- iPOKER 1.0b7 (Scenario Software): Enhanced edition of PowerPOKER, a full featured poker game. File size is 1.9 MB. Preview version.

After Dark Games Released

Berkeley Systems has released After Dark Games. After Dark Games (aka. After Dark Game Pack) is a collection of 11 humorous games featuring well-known characters in After Dark modules such as Flying Toaster and Bad Dog. Requires PowerPC, System 7.5.5 or later, free memory 6 MB or larger, free HD 35 MB or larger, CD-ROM 2x or faster. Available at retail stores in USA or directly for $29.95. (Source: MacGaming.com)

Nethergate Screen Shots Posted

SpiderWeb Software posted screen shots of their upcoming Nethergate. Nethergate is the latest installment of Exile fantasy role playing game series featuring quasi-3D quater view screen, realistic setting from the battle in ancient Britain, and 2 different game play of Rome and Celt sides. No release date has been announced but expected to be around early 1999.

OVAL Ported 3 Titles to Macintosh

OVAL* has ported their 3 Windows titles to Macintosh:

-- B&B: Board-style baseball arcade game like pinball where player control a bat to hit balls randomly dropped. File size is 648 KB. Freeware.
Followup: As of November 10, B&B has been updated to version 1.2.2.

-- Cross Counter: Simple arcade game where player predict the result of the countdown race. File size is 536 KB. Freeware.
Followup: As of November 4, Cross Counter has been updated to version 1.2.0.

-- Angler: Top Basser's Road: Bass fishing simulation role playing game where player challenges tournaments and raise the parameters and skills. It features realistic setting of the game thanks to real-world's instruments and fishing spots. File size is 2.8 MB. Shareware ¥2,000.
Followup: As of November 4, Angler: Top Basser's Road has been updated to version 1.4.0.

(Source: iMac WIRE* and others)

10/29/98 (Thu)

CROP CIRCLES: Escape From Planet 3 Finally Released

Zero Entertainment has finally released CROP CIRCLES: Escape From Planet 3. CROP CIRCLES is a humorous maze-style sci-fi arcade game where player, as an extraterrestrial, must control a flying saucer on the maze-like ground to collect mysterious circles on the Earth. Also needs to catch cows for energy and to evade "enemies" such as farmers with shot gun. File size is 6.7 MB (more info). PowerPC/100 MHz or faster, System 7.5 or later, RAM 16 MB or larger, free HD 12 MB or larger, 250 colors or better, QuickTime 2.5 or later. Shareware $19.95.

Carmageddon II to Feature Iron Maiden's Best Songs

SCI announced that the music of Iron Maiden will be featured in Carmageddon II: Carpocalpyse Now, their upcoming cruel racing arcade game. Iron Maiden is a world-famous British hard rock group whose energetic music is perfectly suited to the game, said SCI. The lead vocalist Blaze Bayley also is a big fan of the original Carmageddon and their management company Sanctuary has specially chosen the featured songs; The Trooper, Aces High, Be Quick, and Man on the Edge. (Source: SCI Press Release)
The preorder of the game is available for £39.99. The development of Macintosh version is somewhat delayed and expected on December 4.

Game Updates

-- PowerCart Grand Prix 2.2* (ORION PROJECT*): 2D cart racing simulation game featuring realistic driving feeling. Version 2.2 features some improvements and fixes. Also supports online registration. File size is 786 KB*. Shareware* ¥500.
Followup: As of November 3, PowerCart Grand Prix has been updated to version 2.3.

-- Clan Lord v48 (Delta Tao Software): Online fantasy role playing game. File size is 7.0 MB, updater from v47 is 480 KB. Beta version.
Followup: As of November 6, Clan Lord has been updated to v49.

-- BOOM 1.1.3 (Factor Software): Bomberman-style 2D action arcade game. Version 1.1.3 only updates the documents. Full version size is 2.9 MB, updater is 1.1 MB. Shareware $15.

-- MacPipes 2.2.5 (Factor Software): Action puzzle arcade game like Pipe Dream. Version 2.2.5 updates documents and changes installation method. Full version size is 875 KB, updater is 279 KB. Shareware $5.

10/28/98 (Wed)

Poker Solitaire Challenge, a Solitaire Card Game with Advanced Computer Algorithm

Mike McLaughlin has released Poker Solitaire Challenge. It is a Poker Solitaire card game with computer algorithm where player rearranges the 5 x 5 alley of cards and makes Poker hands as many or as high as possible. Generally, computer algorithm for solitaire card game is very difficult due to huge number of card combinations. But Poker Solitaire Challenge has powerful computer algorithm using stochastic method comes from simulation of solid state physics. File size is 421 KB. Requires PowerPC, display 800 x 600 or better. Freeware.

Game Updates

-- Beached 1.3 (Marcus Boxall): Survival simulation game where player must survive in a small tropical island. Version 1.3 changes game graphics and adds mouse operation. File size is 311 KB. Freeware.

-- Beached II 1.1 (Marcus Boxall): Sequel to the survival simulation Beached featuring competition and trading with computer survivors. Version 1.1 adds Auto Help and pop up menu. File size is 401 KB. Shareware $8.

10/27/98 (Tue)

Game Updates

-- Excalibur: Morgana's Revenge 1.4.1 (Marathon Map Maker's Guild): Full-scaled add-on scenario for Marathon. Version 1.4.1 fixes a bug that unexpectedly asks Marathon Trilogy Box Set serial number. Patch file size is 36 KB (more info).

-- the Warrior Master 1.6* (GARAGE 17*): Simple and humorous table-talk style fantasy role playing game. Verison 1.6 improves the game difficulty. File size is 2.6 MB*. Freeware. Japanese software

-- FishFighter 1.5.2* (HIROKO*): RPG-style fish battle simulation. File size is 94 KB*. Freeware. Japanese software.

More Info about Upcoming Title of Train Simulator Series

Ongakukan* posted detailed information about upcoming title of Train Simulator series "JR Higashi Nihon Yamanote-sen Uchimawari*". Player drives a train of Yamanote line with the most advanced control system. It features very realistic simulation of the train, various game mode dedicated for both beginners and experts. Expected on December 18.

Dark Vengeance to be Released November, Preorder Started

MacSoft announced that their anticipated Dark Vengeance is to be released in November. Dark Vengeance is a high quality 3D action adventure game with the theme of horror and darkness developed for three years by Reality Bytes, known as pioneer of 3D RAVE games. The player explores the world covered with the pall of darkness and struggles with evil forces for vengeance. It features 3D characters with human motions, cutting-edge 3D graphic technology using color lighting and particle effects, and over 30 fantasy-style weapons and enemies, as well as huge network environment with up to 32 players and 64 voyeurs. Go to Reality Bytes Dark Vengeance page for more information. Requires PowerPC 603e/180 MHz+ or 604/133 MHz+, Mac OS 7.6.1 or later, free memory 24 MB or larger, 256 colors or better (32,000 colors or better recommended). Supports 3D RAVE with VRAM 4 MB or larger. Preorder is available for $49.99.

MacSoft Released Rocky Mountain Trophy Hunter and Lode Runner 2

MacSoft has released Rocky Mountain Trophy Hunter and Lode Runner 2:

-- Rocky Mountain Trophy Hunter: A sequel to the top-seller hunting simulation Deer Hunter. The player experiences realistic hunting of bears, elks, and moose in Rocky Mountains. Requires PowerPC/80 MHz or faster recommended), RAM 16 MB or larger, color monitor. Available at retail stores in USA or directly for $19.99.

-- Lode Runner 2 (developer: Presage Software): Much advanced sequel to Lode Runner, a popular classic 2D arcade game. It features more complex stages of five different 3D worlds, high quality 3D graphics, more than 150 levels with 6-directional scrolling, and up to 8 players game. Demo file size is 11.7 MB (more info). Requires PowerPC, RAM 16 MB or larger, 32,000 colors or better. Available at retail stores in USA or directly for $29.99.

10/26/98 (Mon)

Arcade-style Mah Jong Stack "MahJong1on1"

Tobishima Factory* has released MahJong1on1 0.6*. MahJong1on1 is a 2-player arcade-style Mah Jong game stack featuring speedy and easy game play that feels like old arcade Mah Jong game. File size is 69 KB* (more info*). Freeware. Japanese software.
Followup: As of November 6, MahJong1on1 has been updated to 0.6.1.

Interactive Toy Shop Released

Sony Music Entertainment has released Interactive Toy Shop. Interactive Toy Shop is an interactive adventure game set in a strange toy shop. It features as many as 10 humorous virtual toys as well as unique character and the surprising story. Requires PowerPC/90 MHz or faster, Japanese System 7.5.3 or later, free memory 10 MB or larger, free HD 10 MB or larger, 640 x 480/256 colors or better, CD-ROM 2x or faster (4x or faster recommended). Available as hybrid CD-ROM at retail stores in Japan. Japanese software.

Chisato Moritaka's Interactive Music CD-ROM "Safari Tokyo"

ORACION* has released "Chisato Maritaka: Safari Tokyo*". Safari Tokyo is an interactive music CD-ROM of Japanese popular singer Chisato Moritaka. It contains a variation of games and attraction featuring her recent hit songs. Requires PowerPC 603e/200 MHz or better, Japanese System 7.5 or later, free memory 16 MB or larger, CD-ROM 4x or faster. Available as hybrid CD-ROM at retail stores in Japan or directly* for ¥4,800. Japanese software.

Game Updates

-- Clan Lord v47 (Delta Tao Software): Online fantasy role playing game. File size is 6.8 MB, updater from v46 is 198 KB. Beta version.
Followup: As of November 6, Clan Lord has been updated to v49.

-- Omohide-Prelude 1.2* (Zesty Ltd.*): Simulation role playing game stack based on a love story of teen agers. Version 1.2 features improved performance, new character generation scheme, and other improvements. Full version size is 2.6 MB*, updated stack file is 2.2 MB*, patch file is 40 KB* (more info*). Freeware. Japanese software.

10/22/98 (Thu)

Networkable Fighting "2K5" Released

DoomHammer Software has released full CD-ROM version of 2K5. 2K5 is the newest fighting arcade game of popular Sprite Fighter series featuring unique characters, realistic motions, and network head-to-head play. The CD-ROM contains a variety of playable characters, enemies, and stage data. Demo file size is 17.6 MB (more info). Requires PowerPC, System 7.5 or later, RAM 18 MB or larger (32 MB or larger recommended), free memory 12 MB or larger (25 MB or larger recommended), free HD 18 MB or larger (50 MB or larger recommended), 640 x 480/256 colors or better, QuickTime 2.0 or later recommended. Network play requires OpenTransport 1.1.1 and NetSprocket 1.1.1. Available directly for $25.

Simple Airplane Arcade Stack "JISHAKU"

Gaijin-san* has released JISHAKU*. JISHAKU is a simple and unique arcade game stack where player control an airplane in huge magnetic field and struggle against the enemy airplane. File size is 6 KB*. Freeware. Japanese software.

Warbirds 2.5, a Major Update

iMagic Online has updated Warbirds, a WWII dogfight simulator for network play, to version 2.5. Version 2.5 is a major update featuring more strategical ground operations, various new bombers such as Mosquitos/Stuka/G4M, more weapon variation, improved user interface, and Network Setup Connection Analyzer. In Mac version, some features such as texture graphics and key configuration are not implimented. File size of full version is 27.9 MB, minimal version with limited cockpit files is 9.3 MB (more info). Requires PowerPC, RAM 32 MB or larger, 640 x 480/32,000 colors or better (1,024 x 768 recommended), Joystick recommended. Freeware but additional fee is required to access the online arena.
Followup: As of November 3, Warbirds has been updated to version 2.5r1.

10/21/98 (Wed)

Star Wars DroidWorks Site Opened, Demo Posted

Lucas Learning opened the site of Star Wars DroidWorks and posted the demo. Star Wars DroidWorks is a scientific edutainment and 3D strategy action adventure game for children based on Star Wars world. Player, as an engineer in Tatooine, invents, designs, and operates droids to complete a series of missions. Thanks to as many as 87 parts with realistic engineering specs, a holographic 3D designing screen, and realtime full 3D environment, the education software is also very exiting game with fast action and realistic simulation. Demo size is 30.5 MB (more info). PowerPC 603e/160 MHz or faster, System 7.5.5 or later, RAM 32 MB or larger, free HD 32 MB or larger, display 640 x 480 or better, CD-ROM 4x or faster. For ages 10 and up. Will be available in October.

Game Updates

-- iPOKER 1.0b6 (Scenario Software): Enhanced edition of PowerPOKER, a full featured poker game. Version 1.0b6 improves betting, speech, and Mac OS 8.5 compatibility. It also fixes many bugs. File size is 1.9 MB. Preview version.

10/19/98 (Mon)

SeasideHunter Released

Hiroyuki Nakamura has released SeasideHunter. It is a unique shooting gallery game where player shoots bonitos popping from the sea and make them dried. File size is 464 KB* (more info*). Freeware. Japanese software.
Followup: As of November 6, SeasideHunter has been updated to version 1.1.1.

NUMZUM, A Simple Strategy Board Game

Soleau Software has released NUMZUM. NUMZUM is a simple strategy board game where player and computer take stones with values from -9 to 15 alternately. The rule of the game seems to be easy but very complex logic is required to win. File size is 1.8 MB. Requires 68030 or better, System 7.0 or later, free memory 8 MB or larger, 640 x 480/256 colors or better. Shareware $18.

Lode Runner 2 Demo Posted, Full Version Available on October 26

MacSoft posted the demo of Lode Runner 2. Lode Runner 2 (developer: Presage Software) is a much advanced sequel to Lode Runner, a popular classic 2D arcade game. Full version will feature more complex stages of five different 3D worlds, high quality 3D graphics, more than 150 levels with 6-directional scrolling, and up to 8 players game. File size is 11.7 MB (more info). Expected on October 26.

Game Updates

-- X-Plane Classic-3 (Laminar Research): Full-featured flight simulator. The latest version supports rain and snow of Real Time Weather. Also supports X-Plane 4.0 obstacle-filled environment files. Demo/Upgrade file size is 5.0 MB (more info).

-- X-Plane 4.43 (Laminar Research): Full-featured flight simulator with beautiful texture graphics using OpenGL. Version 4.43 fixes the corrupted sound and improves the helo flight model. Demo/Upgrade file size is 23.3 MB (more info), updater from version 4.41 or later is 1.1 MB (more info).
Followup: As of November 11, X-Plane has been updated to version 4.45.

-- ukubon 1.0.2* (kykz's Software): Japanese popular card game like Crazy Eight. Version 1.0.2 now supports Mac OS 8.5. File size for PowerPC is 114 KB*, 68K is 104 KB*. Japanese Software.

10/16/98 (Fri)

Game Updates

-- MacHunt 1.1.1* (Tatsuya Osabe*): 2D maze-type networkable shooting arcade game. Version 1.1.1 features several enhancements such as power up weapons and smoke. File size is 1.4 MB*. Freeware.

-- David's Backgammon 2.5.3 (David Byrum): Backgammon game with many features. File size is 257 KB. Shareware $20.

-- Nanosaur 1.0.8b7 (Pangea Software): 3D dinosaur shooting action game. Updater size for freeware version is 175 KB, iMac version is 174 KB, 1.8.0 manual is 487 KB (more info).
Followup: As of October 16, the final version of Nanosaur 1.0.8 has been released.

-- Skat 3.1.2e (Fa. Rasche): German traditional card game with computer opponent. Updater size is 1.5 MB.

-- Doppelkopf 1.22e (Fa. Rasche): German traditional card game with computer opponent. Updater size is 1.5 MB.

-- Schafkopf 1.03 (Fa. Rasche): German traditional card game with computer opponent. Demo size is 1.6 MB, updater size is 1.5 MB.

-- Clan Lord v46 (Delta Tao Software): Online fantasy role playing game. v46 features new world data and bug fixes. File size is 6.8 MB, updater from v45 is 179 KB. Beta version.
Followup: As of November 6, Clan Lord has been updated to v49.

-- QuakeWorld 2.3 Beta 1 (Westlake Interactive): Internet optimized version of Quake. Version 2.3 Beta 1 now works with PC server 2.3 and fixes bugs. File size is 1.4 MB (more info). Freeware. QuakeFinderQW 1.6b5 bundled.

-- QuakeWorld Server 2.3 Beta 1 (Westlake Interactive): Server program for QuakeWorld. File size is 291 KB (more info). Freeware.

10/14/98 (Wed)

3D Klondike Released

Freeverse Software has released 3D Klondike. 3D Klondike is a new solitaire card game featuring, like their Burning Monkey Solitaire, unique playing environment resembles a theater. The new game features iMac-like play field and humorous audience such as Steve Jobs and Bill Gates. File size is 2.2 MB (more info). Shareware $14.95.

Tomb Raider II Released

Aspyr Media has released Tomb Raider II. Tomb Raider II (developer: Core Design, PC version publisher: Eidos Interactive, porter: Westlake Interactive) is the port of the second installment of 3D exploration action game series where player, as a woman explorer Lara, searches Great Wall of China for an artifact while fighting various enemies. It features a lot of action scenes such as jumping, climbing up walls, wading in underwater, and fighting by powerful weapons. Also features high quality graphics using 3D RAVE or 3Dfx. Go to Eidos Interactive Tomb Raider II page for more information about the game. Demo version is available (see October 12 news). PowerPC/80 MHz or better, System 7.5.3 or later, RAM 16 MB or larger, CD-ROM 4x or faster. Available at retail stores in USA or directly for $49.95.

Game Updates

-- aGORA 1.2 (Knowble Design): Networkable 3D fantasy strategy action-style role playing game. Version 1.2 features 3D RAVE support, improves physics, and other enhancements that improve game play. Also added is Blood Span net scenario for 3D RAVE. Updater size is 3.9 MB (more info).

-- Unreal 1.0.1 Beta 1 (Westlake Interactive): High quality 3D first person shooting adventure game. Version 1.0.1 Beta 1 Fixes the 3Dfx beheading bug and the network problem when connected to PC version 2.17. Updater size is 972 KB (more info). Beta version.

-- Blobs 2.0 (Foxchange Productions): Puzzle arcade game where player places differently colored blobs and makes them disappear by a rule. Version 2.0 improves sound, graphic effect, and speed. File size is 641 KB (more info). Shareware $10.

-- Jewel of Arabia: Dreamers 1.0.1 (Quarter Note Software): Role playing game set in an ancient Arabian empire. Version 1.0.1 fixes critical bugs. File size is 8.3 MB, updater is 153 KB. Shareware $25.

-- FishFighter 1.5* (HIROKO*): RPG-style fish battle simulation. Version 1.5 changes game rule such as level up assignment. File size is 94 KB*. Freeware. Japanese software.
Followup: As of October 27, FishFighter has been updated to 1.5.2.

-- X-Plane 4.42 (Laminar Research): Full-featured flight simulator with beautiful texture graphics using OpenGL. Version 4.42 features different touchdown sounds for each terrain and some minor improvements. Demo/Upgrade file size is 25.0 MB (more info), updater from version 4.21 or later is 1.1 MB (more info).
Followup: As of November 11, X-Plane has been updated to version 4.45.

-- Ashcan 1.7 (Jerry Fritschle): Submarine destroying game where player must guess the depth and timing to drop ashcans. Version 1.7 features major changes game play that is more timing-sensible. File size is 736 KB. Freeware.
Followup: As of October 14, Ashcan has been updated to 1.7.1.

10/13/98 (Tue)

Tempus Irae 2 - The Lost Levels Released

Nardo has released Tempus Irae 2 - The Lost Levels. The Lost Levels is an add-on map set for Tempus Irae, a popular total conversion set for Marathon Infinity. It includes new 10 levels for solo play and 11 levels for net play. File size is 8.7 MB. Requires Marathon Infinity with Tempus Irae installed.

10/12/98 (Mon)

Tomb Raider II Demo Download Sites

As of October 12, Tomb Raider II Demo is available at following sites:

-- MacAddict (8.8 MB, Small demo is 5.5 MB)
-- GAMECENTER.COM (8.4 MB)
-- ZDNet (8.4 MB)

(Source: MacGaming.com, Tadataka Go)

Game Updates

-- X-Plane 4.41 (Laminar Research): Full-featured flight simulator with beautiful texture graphics using OpenGL. No information about this update has been given. Demo/Upgrade file size is 25.0 MB (more info), updater from version 4.21 or later is 966 KB (more info).
Followup: As of November 11, X-Plane has been updated to version 4.45.

-- Clan Lord v45 (Delta Tao Software): Online fantasy role playing game. v45 features several improvements and bug fixes. File size is 6.8 MB, updater from v44 is 185 KB. Beta version.
Followup: As of November 6, Clan Lord has been updated to v49.

-- X-Files Trivia Challenge 1.5 (CompleatMac Software): Trivia game of X-Files. Version 1.5 adds an introduction screen. File size is 816 KB. Shareware $10.

-- PowerCart Grand Prix 2.1* (ORION PROJECT*): 2D cart racing simulation game featuring realistic driving feeling. Version 2.1 adjusted the game difficulty and reduced price. File size is 773 KB*. Shareware ¥500.
Followup: As of November 3, PowerCart Grand Prix has been updated to version 2.3.

-- Overload 1.0.1 (TechnoGeeks software): Mission-oriented MasterMind-type board game with the theme of bomb defusing. Version 1.0.1 changes the registration system. File size is 1.5 MB. Shareware $5.

10/9/98 (Fri)

Game Updates

-- Nanosaur 1.0.8b6 (Pangea Software): 3D dinosaur shooting action game. Updater size for freeware version is 175 KB, iMac version is 174 KB, 1.8.0 manual is 487 KB (more info).
Followup: As of October 16, the final version of Nanosaur 1.0.8 has been released.

-- iPOKER 1.0b5 (Scenario Software): Enhanced edition of PowerPOKER, a full featured poker game. Version 1.0b5 fixes bugs including a crash. File size is 1.9 MB. Preview version.
Followup: As of October 21, iPOKER has been updated to version 1.0b6.

-- Mogu x 2 1.1* (PoCkEt*): Simple but exiting Whack-A-Mole game. Version 1.1 adds game continue screen. File size is 340 KB*. Freeware.

Flash: Tomb Raider II Demo Posted

Aspyr Media has released the demo of Tomb Raider II and posted on several sites. It is downloadable from MacAddict (Full Demo is 8.7 MB, Small Demo without ATI driver and Game Sprockets is 5.4 MB (more info) ) or Macworld Online (6.1 MB). (Source: Mach One* and others)
Followup: As of October 9, Macworld Online is so loaded that it is difficult to download from there.

10/8/98 (Thu)

Game Updates

-- X-Plane 4.40 (Laminar Research): Full-featured flight simulator with beautiful texture graphics using OpenGL. Version 4.40 supports landmark object costomization and improves flight model. Demo/Upgrade file size is 25.0 MB (more info), updater from version 4.21 or later is 966 KB (more info).
Followup: As of November 11, X-Plane has been updated to version 4.45.

Project Magellan 3.0 Reposted. Upgrade from 2.x also Posted

Plaid World Software has reposted the demo and full version of Project Magellan 3.0, their newly upgraded horizontal scrolling 2D shooting arcade game that was temporarily undownloadable for a while. Demo size is 3.9 MB, full version is 36.9 MB (more info). Shareware $20.
They also posted the upgrade file for users who have Project Magellan 2.x CD-ROM (2.8 MB). Notice: the upgrade still needs another $20 for registration.
(Thanks: Tadataka Go)

10/7/98 (Wed)

Arabian Role Playing Game "Jewel of Arabia: Dreamers"

Quarter Note Software has released Jewel of Arabia: Dreamers. Jewel of Arabia: Dreamers is the first installment of role playing game series set in an ancient Arabian empire. It features the unique Arabian-like characters/spellings/graphics/music, contextual conversation parser, and sophisticated AI. File size is 8.3 MB. Requires 68040 or better, System 7.0 or later, free memory 13 MB or larger, free HD 15 MB or larger, 640 x 480/256 colors or better, Sound Manager 3.0 or later, QuickTime 2.0 or later. Shareware $25. (Source: MacGaming.com, MGL, others)
Followup: As of October 14, Jewel of Arabia: Dreamers has been updated to 1.0.1.

Game Updates

-- David's Backgammon 2.5.2 (David Byrum): Full-featured Backgammon game. Version 2.5.2 includes bug fixes and improvements such as a new rule option and a new color scheme. File size is 257 KB. Shareware $20.

-- Escape Velocity Override 1.0.1 (Ambrosia Software): Popular space shooting strategy game. Version 1.0.1 features many fixes and improvements (more info). Updater size is 1.4 MB (more info). Shareware $25.

10/6/98 (Tue)

Game Updates Part 2

-- Nanosaur 1.0.8b5 (Pangea Software): 3D dinosaur shooting action game. Updater size for freeware version is 175 KB, iMac version is 174 KB, 1.8.0 manual is 487 KB (more info).
Followup: As of October 16, the final version of Nanosaur 1.0.8 has been released.

-- Seikatsu Simulator 1.5 (Takeshi Sakai): a parameter-oriented simulation game of daily life. Version 1.5 adjusts game speed and adds several events. File size is 448 KB* (more info*). Freeware.

-- Bokeshi Game 1.1* (Kazuhiro Someya*): Simple but difficult strategy game. Version 1.1 supports Mac OS Color Picker and online registration. File size is 376 KB* (more info*). Shareware* ¥1,200.

Followup: Marathon Gold Announcement is Hoax?

MacGaming.com reported that the announcement of upcoming Marathon Gold via the Bungie Newsletter is just a hoax. Currently, Macintosh Game Joho is verifying the truth or falsehood.
Followup: Another issue of Bungie Newsletter says that previous announcement is a fake by somebody who illegally used the mailing list.

Solitaire House Released

Ingemar Ragnemalm has released Solitaire House. Solitaire House is a collection of 30 solitaire card games featuring colorful deck/table design. File size is 1.5 MB. Shareware $20.

Overload, a MasterMind-type Game with Thrilling Theme

TechnoGeeks software has released Overload. Overload is a Mission-oriented MasterMind-type board game where player guess 3 to 5 digits numbers using hints. It features thrilling game play with the theme of bomb defusing. File size is 1.4 MB. Shareware $5.
Followup: As of October 12, Overload has been updated to version 1.0.1.

Trick Candles, a Candle Blowing Puzzle Game

Robert Jen has released Trick Candles. Trick Candles is a unique puzzle game stack where player must blow out the all 25 candles. Blowing is done by mouse click, and surrounding 4 other candles can be blown but it relights already-out candles. File size is 15 KB. Requires HyperCard 2.1 or later. Freeware.

Backyard Soccer, a Soccer Team Management Game for Kids

Humongous Entertainment has released Backyard Soccer. Backyard Soccer is a soccer team management game for kids where player manages a junior soccer team and plays with them in a league. Available as hybrid CD-ROM at retail stores in USA.

"3D Railroad Concept & Design" Shipped

Abracadata, known for several model train tool such as Design Your Own Railroad, ships 3D Railroad Concept & Design. It is a precise 3D model train layout tool that allows to view and walk through fully rendered 3D layouts as well as run the train on the layout. It supports various scales such as HO, Z, N, G, S, O, I and offers database of actual manufacturer's parts that allows to report the required materials, trackage, and their cost. Requires System 7.5, RAM 32 MB or larger, free HD 30 MB or larger, 256 colors or better. Will available really soon at retail stores in USA.

Game Updates

-- 3d Paddle Bash! 1.3.1 (Matthew Diamond): 3D Pong arcade game. Version 1.3.1 fixes performance problem on AV Macs. File size is 122 KB. Shareware $7.

-- Smart Cookies 2.0.1 (Georges Gyory): Colorful mind game where player find groups of same colored cookies. No information about this update has been given. File size is 239 KB. Shareware $10.

-- TicTacToe4D 1.1 (Aaron Iba): 4th dimensional Tic-Tac-Toe game. Version 1.1 fixes minor bugs. File size is 360 KB. Freeware.

-- Beat the Dragon 2.5 (GRAPHICAindustra): Solitaire card game like Klondike. Version 2.5 fixes bugs, improves performance, and adds new features. File size is 281 KB. Shareware $10.

-- Bub & Bob 1.3 (Sebastian Wegner): 2D arcade game like Bubble Bobble. Version 1.3 improves the editor and graphics. File size is 2.5 MB. Shareware $20.

-- iPOKER 1.0b4 (Scenario Software): Enhanced edition of PowerPOKER, a full featured poker game. Version 1.0b4 fixes some crashing bugs and adds Panic! feature. File size is 1.9 MB. Preview version.
Followup: As of October 21, iPOKER has been updated to version 1.0b6.

-- MazeBall 1.0.1 (Patrice Mallette): Board-style arcade game where player rolls a ball in the maze. File size is 4.4 MB (more info). Shareware $20.

10/3/98 (Sat)

The Untouchable Demo Posted

Power Media posted the demo of The Untouchable. The Untouchable is a realistic Martial Arts fighting arcade game developed by Creative Edge Software. It features smoothly animated graphics with fast response, realistic techniques/motions captured from real-world martial artists, a variety of characters with unique fighting styles, and stereographical multilayer background with parallax zooming and scrolling. Only Arcade Mode (for 1 player) and Battle Mod (for 2 players) are available in the demo. File size is 40.2 MB, segmented files also available (more info). Preorder is acceptable for $49.95. (Source: MacGaming.com)

10/2/98 (Fri)

Project Magellan 3.0 Released as Shareware

Plaid World Software has released Project Magellan 3.0. It is a Nemesis-style horizontal scrolling 2D shooting arcade game featuring high quality graphics of 32,000 colors, dynamic parallax scrolling, variety of powered-up weapons, sprite/level editors. Version 3.0 features new Arcade Mode for easier power-up management. Demo size is 3.9 MB, full version is 37.0 MB (more info). Requires 68040 or better, System 7.0 or later, free HD 60 MB or larger, 640 x 480/256 colors or better. For 256 colors, requires RAM 5 MB or larger, free memory 8 MB or larger (virtual memory OK). For 32,000 colors, requires RAM 10 MB or larger, free memory 14 MB or larger (virtual memory OK). QuickTime 2.0 or later recommended. The new version becomes shareware for $20 rather than retail product.

Game Updates

-- Street Rumble 1.1 (Foxchange Productions): Side scrolling 2D fighting arcade game. Version 1.1 improves graphics/music and fixes bugs. File size is 2.3 MB. Shareware $20.

-- X-Plane 4.31 (Laminar Research): Full-featured flight simulator with beautiful texture graphics using OpenGL. Version 4.31 features improved helicopter flight model, sky gradients, and other improvements/fixes. Demo/Upgrade file size is 24.9 MB (more info), updater from previous version is 599 KB (more info).
Followup: As of November 11, X-Plane has been updated to version 4.45.

-- X-Plane Classic-2 (Laminar Research): Full-featured flight simulator. The latest version improves controls and instruments. Demo/Upgrade file size is 6.8 MB (more info).
Followup: As of October 19, X-Plane has been updated to Classic-3.

-- Mac Invaders 1.10 (BoneHead Projects): High quality Invaders clone. Version 1.10 rewrites whole program and improves performance. File size is 791 KB. Shareware $10.

-- iPOKER Preview 1.0b3 (Scenario Software): Enhanced edition of PowerPOKER, a full featured poker game. Version 1.0b3 features various improvements and bug fixes. File size is 1.8 MB.
Followup: As of October 21, iPOKER has been updated to version 1.0b6.

10/1/98 (Thu)

New Entertainment Titles Announced at World PC Expo

World PC Expo 98, Japanese largest computer trade show, is held in Makuhari Messe through October 3, and some exhibitors show their new Japanese Mac entertainment titles (Number before each exhibitor's name is their booth number):

-- Small House series (2232 Victor Entertainment): Adventure game series for kids where player explores the wonderful Small House with a little mouse. Features cute graphics and over 500 attractive activities. "Small House" expected on October 23, "Christmas time at Small House" on November 13.

-- PostPet 2001* (2312 So-net*): The newest edition of award-winning entertainment E-mailer software. Features various entertaining functions such as breeding and visiting. Expected on December 12. (more info*)

-- Myth II: Soulblighter* (6141 G.A.T.E*): The sequel to Myth, The Fallen Lords, a popular 3D fantasy strategy simulation game, featuring many improvements. The Japanese version expected in December. CD-ROM including Myth II movie and screen shots is available for free. (more info*)

-- MacMagic (6141 G.A.T.E*): Low cost 3Dfx card dedicated for Macintosh with an easy setting software. Expected in November.

-- CutieMascot++ (7341 Kohshin Graphic Systems*, iMac Pavilion): Enhanced version of CutieMascot, a popular desktop accessory creation tool. Features more advanced authoring using new visual object-oriented programing environment. Expected on October 12.

Also, following booths exhibits game softwares for Macintosh:

-- 1132 Teichiku*: Realistic fishing simulation "Uki Uki Tsuri Tengoku: Umidzuri Zammai*" (also sells in the booth).

-- 1134 MicroMouse*: "POSTAL: SPECIAL DELIVERY*" from Running with Scissors.

-- 1141 PSD*: Restaurant simulation "The Bistro: Yoshokuyasan Keiei Simulation*" and other game titles (also sell in the booth).

-- 1152 Masudaya: Full-scaled Jigsaw puzzle series "DEJIG" (also sells in the booth).

-- 1321 FuMI*: Multimedia titles demonstrated on touch screen computers.

-- 7341 iMac Pavilion: Several publishers show their multimedia titles.