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 Some of versions and links in this page may be outdated.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 May, 1999

5/31/99 (Mon)

Twilight Express Golf Mac Released: Twilight Express* shipped Twilight Express Golf Mac*. Twilight Express Golf Mac is a series of low-priced 3D golf simulation games featuring popular Japanese courses. It features high quality graphics supporting full-color and large screen, realistic simulation, various weather settings, and net play. The series consists following titles:

-- Fuji Chuo Golf Club
-- Ishioka Golf Club
-- Wakagi Golf Club
-- Katsura Golf Club

Requires PowerPC, Japanese System 7.5.3 or later, free memory 16 MB or larger, free HD 130 MB or larger, 640 x 480/32,000 colors or better, CD-ROM 4x or faster. Available at retail stores in Japan or directly* for ¥1,980 each (including tax and shipping). Japanese software.
Japanese Civil War Simulation "Fukkokuban Tenkatoits": SystemSoft* has released Fukkokuban Tenkatoits*. Fukkokuban Tenkatoits is a remade version of classic strategy simulation game set in old Japanese cilvil war ear. It features the simple but challenging game play and the excellent computer routine. Requires 68030 or better, Japanese System 7.1 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. Available as hybrid CD-ROM at retail stores in Japan. Japanese software.
Game Updates (World-Wide): -- Falcon 4.0 1.0.6b (Westlake Interactive): Flight simulator and air combat simulation of F-16 Falcon. Version 1.0.6b fixes problems on the keyboard input. Updater size is 514 KB (more info). Also, an unsupported patch for ATI RAGE Pro is available with file size 51 KB (more info).

-- Mac Descent 3Dfx/OpenGL 1.26 (Duane Johnson): Unofficial Descent updater that supports 3Dfx. Version 1.26 features many improvements and fixes. File size is 1.7 MB each (more info). Causeware.
Followup: As of June 3, Mac Descent 3Dfx has been updated to 1.27.

5/28/99 (Fri)

Real Time Fantasy Strategy Game "Thrones": Rocco Bowling has released Thrones. Thrones is a real time fantasy strategy game where player lead army/navy to fight against the dark powers of Hades. It features simple operation and flexible game play. The game contains 7 scenario, a random map generator, and a scenario editor. File size is 2.9 MB. Requires PowerPC, free memory 13 MB or larger, free HD 4 MB or larger, 640 x 480/256 colors or better, QuickTime 2.0 or later. Shareware $10. (Source: IMG)
Star Wars Episode 1: The Gungan Frontier Released: Lucas Learning shipped Star Wars Episode 1: The Gungan Frontier. It is ecological simulation game for education based on Star Wars Episode 1 film. The player carries missions to create a new world filled with creatures and plants on the moon of Naboo in order to resolve overpopulation problem of Gungan. The game contains over 80 Star Wars creatures and plants, over a dozen missions based on real-world ecological concepts, a detailed encyclopedia of creatures and plants, the accurate simulation of the environment and the food chain, Create-a-Critter mode to design new creatures and plants. It also has game levels both for beginners and advanced players. Requires PowerPC 603e/200 MHz, 604/132 MHz or better, Mac OS 7.6 or later, RAM 32 MB or larger, free HD 120 MB or larger, display 640 x 480 or better, CD-ROM 4x or faster. For ages 9 and up. Available as hybrid CD-ROM at retail stores in USA. Direct order has not been available yet. Demo version is available with size 29.6 MB (more info).
Game Updates (World-Wide): -- David's Backgammon 2.8.4 (David Byrum): Backgammon game with many features. Version 2.8.4 fixes problems on registration and compatibility. File size is 290 KB. Shareware $20.
Followup: As of June 8, David's Backgammon has been updated to version 2.8.6.

-- Mac Descent 3Dfx/OpenGL 1.25 (Duane Johnson): Unofficial Descent updater that supports 3Dfx. Version 1.25 fixes many bugs including the music track bug. File size of Mac Descent 1 3Dfx is 1.7 MB, Mac Descent 2 3Dfx is 1.7 MB, Mac Descent 1 Demo 3Dfx is 1.7 MB, Mac Descent 1 OpenGL is 1.7 MB, Mac Descent 2 OpenGL is 1.7 MB, Mac Descent 1 Demo OpenGL is 1.7 MB. Causeware.
Followup: As of June 3, Mac Descent 3Dfx has been updated to 1.27.

-- The Fishin' Hole 1.5 (KB Productions): Simple fishing simulation game. Version 1.5 improves graphics, game speed, and sounds. File size is 4.1 MB (more info). Shareware $10.
Followup: As of June 3, The Fishin' Hole has been updated to 1.5.2.

5/27/99 (Thu)

Austin Powers Operation: Trivia Released: Berkeley Systems and Sierra Attractions shipped Austin Powers Operation: Trivia. It is a trivia quiz show game based on Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me, a film starring American popular comedy characters. The player teams up with ether Dr. Evil or Austin Powers to beat the opponent through a quiz game show. It contains hundreds of questions about pop cultures of 60's through 90's. Requires PowerPC, System 7.5.5 or later, RAM 16 MB or larger, free HD 50 MB or larger, 640 x 480/256 colors or better, CD-ROM 2x or faster. Available as hybrid CD-ROM at retail stores in USA or directly for $29.95. (Source: MacGaming.com, IMG)
America's Greatest Arcade Hits 3D Released: MacSoft shipped America's Greatest Arcade Hits 3D. It is a collection of 3D enhansed versions of classic arcade games contains following 4 games:

-- Munch Man: 3D version of Packman-type arcade game.
-- Tetramadness: Tetris-type puzzle arcade game with 3D screen.
-- Alien Invasion: Invaders-type shooting arcade game.
-- Qube Jumper: Q*Bert-type puzzle arcade game.

Requires PowerPC, System 7.1 or later, RAM 16 MB or larger, CD-ROM. Available at retail stores in USA or directly for $19.99.

5/26/99 (Wed)

Falcon 4.0 Released: MacSoft has released Falcon 4.0. Developed by MicroProse, ported by Westlake Interactive, Falcon 4.0 is the enhanced version of Falcon, a popular Flight simulator and air combat simulation of F-16 Falcon. The new version features realistic modeling of F-16 avionics/weapons, real time campaign engine set in the today's Korean peninsula, photorealistic texture-mapped graphics, and competitive/cooperative net play. It also features Instant Action mode for beginners and Tactical Engagement that allows users to create missions and to carry the training missions. Requires PowerPC 603e/200 MHz or better, 256 KB L2 cache memory, System 7.5.3 or later, RAM 32 MB or larger, free HD 175 MB or larger, CD-ROM 4x or faster. Available at retail stores in USA. Direct order is available only from USA and Canada for $49.99.
Followup: As of May 31, Falcon 4.0 has been updated to version 1.0.6b.
Game Updates (World-Wide): -- Clan Lord v78 (Delta Tao Software): Online fantasy role playing game. File size of updater for CD-ROM users is 824 KB, full test version is 18.5 MB, updater for test version is 578 KB (more info).
Followup: As of June 10, Clan Lord has been updated to v88.

-- Falcon 4.0 1.0.6a (Westlake Interactive): Flight simulator and air combat simulation of F-16 Falcon. Version 1.0.6a fixes several bugs such as a hung up. Updater size is 325 KB (more info).
Followup: As of May 31, Falcon 4.0 has been updated to version 1.0.6b.

5/25/99 (Tue)

Mac vs. PC Invaders "MicroWar": MadDog Production has released MicroWar. MicroWar is an Invader-style shooting arcade game with the theme of the history of Mac vs. PC war in the computer industry. The player shoots PC machines with a Macintosh. It contains levels from 1984 to beyond 2000 with equipment of each year. File size is 1.4 MB (more info). Requires PowerPC, System 7.5.5 or later (Mac OS 8.5 or later recommended), free memory 6 MB or larger, 640 x 480/256 colors or better, QuickTime 2.5 or later. Freeware. (Source: MacUpdate.com, Version Tracker)
Japan Central Accepts Preorder of Dark Vengeance for Low Price: Japan Central* (Pacific Software Publishing) releases Japanese market version of Dark Vengeance*, a high quality 3D action adventure with theme of horror and darkness, in early-June. Preorder* is available now for special price $29.95 through June 6 (regular price $34.95).
Game Updates (World-Wide): -- Anubis Casino 1.0.1 (Anubis): Casino game collection including 7 popular games. File size is 772 KB. Shareware $20.
Followup: As of June 10, Anubis Casino has been updated to version 1.0.4.

5/24/99 (Mon)

Puzzle Arcade Game "Ratsel": Zauberkraft Software* has released Ratsel*. Ratsel is a 2D puzzle arcade game where player finds a path to get all cards in a stage by the play style like Lode Runner and Sokoban. It features easy operation with mouse and challenging 16 levels. File size is 1.2 MB*. Requires PowerPC, Japanese System 7.1 or later, free memory 5 MB or larger, free HD 2 MB or larger, 832 x 624/32,000 colors or better. freeware. Japanese software. Also, Ratsel StageEditor* is available with size 634 KB*.
Followup: As of June 4, Ratsel has been updated to version 1.0.2.
Shooting Gallery Game "HITMAN": Dandyism Hakushaku* has released HITMAN 0.1*. HITMAN is a simple shooting gallery game where player shoots targets with the mouse. It has two game modes; time-limited mode for beginners and non-limited sudden death mode for advanced players. File size is 164 KB*. Requires PowerPC. Freeware.
Game Updates (Japanese): -- UCHU-JIN SHINRYAKU 1.5* (HEISEI GAME NAGAYA*): Simple and compact invader-type shooting arcade game. Version 1.5 features improved game difficulty, score display, and other improvements. File size is 105 KB* (more info*). Freeware. Japanese software.
Followup: As of June 10, UCHU-JIN SHINRYAKU has been updated to version 1.5.1.

5/21/99 (Fri)

The Tower II Add-on "Tokyo Tower" Released: OPeNBooK 9003* has released "Towerkit CD: Tokyo Tower*". It is an add-on kit for The Tower II, the original Japanese version of Yoot Tower, where player manages Tokyo Tower and its facilities. It features customizable illumination and special event to resolve a radio problem. Requires Japanese version of The Tower II, additional free HD 50 MB or larger. Available as hybrid CD-ROM at retail stores in Japan.
Game Updates: -- Mac Descent OpenGL 1.24 (Duane Johnson): Unofficial Descent updater that supports 3Dfx. Version 1.24 features rendering-related improvements and other improvements and fixes. File size of Mac Descent 1 OpenGL is 1.7 MB, Mac Descent 2 OpenGL is 1.7 MB. Causeware.
Followup: As of June 3, Mac Descent 3Dfx has been updated to 1.27.
X-Plane 5.0 Released: Laminar Research has released X-Plane 5.0. X-Plane is a comprehensive civilian flight simulator with beautiful texture graphics and many professional features such as a variety of plane category, realistic flight modeling using rigorous aerodynamics, plane design tools, an excellent air traffic control system, and flight analysis using 2D/3D path plots and the flight recorder. Version 5.0 also has following features:

-- Multi-plane interactions that allow to tow gliders by towplanes.
-- More efficient runway data storage that allows unlimited runways per airport, lower memory requirement, and faster loading.
-- Automatic null-zone management of joysticks.
-- Slow motion replay.
-- Further flight model enhancements for airplanes and helos.
-- Other many improvements and new options.

Demo/upgrade file size is 35.7 MB (more info). New users must buy a CD-ROM and upgrade it to 5.0. Requires PowerPC/100 MHz or faster, RAM 64 MB or larger, free HD 80 MB or larger, display 800 x 600 or better, CD-ROM drive, English Text-to-Speech. 3D accelerator card that supports OpenGL is required and 3Dfx cards are supported through a MESA library with file size 601 KB (more info). The CD-ROM is available now for special introductory price of $129 (where normal price is $199).

5/20/99 (Thu)

Game Updates: -- ChessWorks 1.5.2 (Mike Bailey): Chess program only for head-to-head net play. Version 1.5.1 improve the stability of the protocol and version 1.5.2 improves the name display. File size is 508 KB (more info). Freeware.
Followup: As of June 11, ChessWorks has been updated to 1.7.6.

5/19/99 (Wed)

2D Shooting Arcade Game "Blaster Jets II: Ambitions of War": Lo's Software has released Blaster Jets II: Ambitions of War. Blaster Jets II is a new version of Blaster Jets, a 2D shooting arcade game where player shoots enemy's space ships to save planets. The new version adds a competitive 2-player mode called Battle Mode. File size is 1.4 MB. Requires 68040 or better, System 7.1 or later, RAM 8 MB or larger. Shareware $10.
Asteroids-type 2D Strategic Shooting Game "Battle for the Universe": Misty Software has released Battle for the Universe. Battle for the Universe is a new version of Battle for the Planets, an Asteroids-type networkable shooting game featuring strategic game play with the large galaxy map and bases for repair/resupply. The new version also features improved AI for single play, 3 different maps, fog-of-war mode, and other improvements. File size is 1.9 MB. Requires PowerPC, free memory 5.1 MB or larger, color monitor. Shareware $20. (Source: MGL)
Pipe-Connecting Arcade Game "ANT RUN PRO": Soleau Software has released ANT RUN PRO. ANT RUN PRO is a pipe-connecting arcade game where player creates a path that an ant go through by clicking grids of pipes. It feature fast paced game play with high difficulty and various items and bonuses. File size is 2.1 MB. Requires 68030 or better, System 7.0 or later, RAM 16 MB or larger. Shareware $18.
Game Updates: -- Blaster Jets 1.1.6 (Lo's Software): 2D shooting arcade game. File size is 1,005 KB. Shareware $5.

-- Mac Descent OpenGL 1.23 (Duane Johnson): Unofficial Descent updater that supports 3Dfx. File size of Mac Descent 1 OpenGL is 1.7 MB, Mac Descent 2 OpenGL is 1.7 MB. Causeware.
Followup: As of June 3, Mac Descent 3Dfx has been updated to 1.27.

5/18/99 (Tue)

Apple Posted E3 Report: Apple Computer posted E3 report "Mac in the Game at E3." The 4-page report covers the Apple's booth as well as other Mac-related exhibitors and coming Mac games in E3.
Game Demos: -- Caesar III (Impressions Software): The latest installment of empire management simulation series set in the ancient Roman Empire. File size is 19.0 MB (more info). Expected in June.
Game Updates: -- Cannons and Castles 2.1 (Andy Lyttle): Cannon shooting simulation game stack. Version 2.1 features minor enhancements and fixes. File size 408 KB. Shareware $5.

-- Manic Minefields 1.3 (Addiction Interactive): Variety MineSweeper game collection including 10 games. Version 1.3 improves graphics and fixes minor bugs. File size is 814 KB. Shareware $7.

5/17/99 (Mon)

Game Updates: -- Bub & Bob 1.4.1 (Sebastian Wegner): 2D arcade game like Bubble Bobble. Version 1.4.1 improve the resolution switching. File size is 1.8 MB (more info). Shareware $20.

-- ChessWorks 1.5 (Mike Bailey): Chess program only for head-to-head net play. Version 1.5 improve the stability of modem connection. File size is 521 KB (more info). Freeware.
Followup: As of June 11, ChessWorks has been updated to 1.7.6.

-- Nanosaur 1.1.5 (Pangea Software): 3D dinosaur shooting action game. Version 1.1.5 improves DrawSprocket-related code. File size is 13.1 MB (more info). Charityware $30.

-- Q3Finder 1.0.1 (Scott Kevill): Internet server browser for Q3Test. Version 1.0.1 supports the changes in servers and avoids crashes. File size is 214 KB (more info). Freeware.

-- Trinity 1.0.2 (Divinity Software): Triangle-matching puzzle game played against computer players. Version 1.0.2 fixes several bugs. File size is 1.3 MB. Shareware $15.

5/14/99 (Fri)

Triangular MineSweeper Game "TriangleSweeper": Tetsuya Hongo* has released TriangleSweeper*. TriangleSweeper is a new MineSweeper-type strategy game played on a triangular grid. It offers more challenging play with complex rule and strategy. It also features a variety of game options and sophisticated interface. File size of PowerPC version is 1.1 MB*, 68K version is 1.1 MB*. Requires 68020, System 7.5 or later (Mac OS 8.0 or later recommended), free memory 4 MB or larger, 640 x 480/256 colors or better (32,000 colors or better recommended). Shareware ¥1,000. English software with Japanese manual.
Twilight Express Golf98 to be Released on May 29: Twilight Express* releases Twilight Express Golf98* on May 29. Twilight Express Golf98 is a series of low-priced realistic 3D golf simulation games featuring popular Japanese courses. Following 5 titles are to be released:

-- Fuji Chuo Golf Club
-- Ishioka Golf Club
-- Wakagi Golf Club
-- Katsura Golf Club
-- Super Challenge Course (Expected on June 5)

Preorder* is available for ¥1,980 each (including tax and shipping). Japanese software.
Apple Posted Press Release at E3 Expo, Many New Games Introduced: Apple Computer posted a Press Release "Major Game Developers Back on Macintosh at E3*" and listed many new games announced or showed at E3 Expo:

-- Deer Avenger II: The Return of Bambo (Simon & Schuster Interactive)
-- Diablo II (Blizzard Entertainment)
-- Fly! (Gathering of Developers)
-- Half-Life (Sierra Studios)
-- Madden NFL 2000 (EA SportsCAspyr Media)
-- Oni (Bungie Software Products)
-- Quake 3: Arena (id Software)
-- Star Trek Deep Space Nine: The Fallen (Simon & Schuster Interactive)
-- Star Wars: Episode I Racer (LucasArts Entertainment)
-- Star Wars Episode 1: The Gungan Frontier (Lucas Learning)
-- TRIBES II

Also, Apple themselves have exhibited their products -- iMacs, Power Macintosh G3s, and new Power Book G3s -- at booth 4001 in the Expo.

5/13/99 (Thu)

E3 Expo Held: E3 Expo (Electronic Entertainment Expo) is held in Los Angels, USA from today May 13 through 15 (conference starts on May 12). It is the trade show focusing on electronic entertainment products including console and computer games. Following exhibitors expected to exhibit or announce Mac game titles:

-- Simon & Schuster Interactive (Booth 503): Deer Avenger II: The Return of Bambo, a sequel to the Deer Hunter parody, Star Trek Deep Space Nine: The Fallen, Unreal-based 3D action game. Also, other edutainment and Star Trek-related reference titles will be exhibited. (more info)

-- Sierra (Booth 600): Caesar III, the latest installment of Roman Empire management simulation game, Half-Life, story-oriented first-person shooting adventure game?

-- Blue Byte Software (Booth 2408): The Settlers III, Empire strategy simulation set in Medieval Times, and others?

-- Bungie Software Products (Booth 2900): Oni, fighting combat simulation with theme of Japanese anime.

-- Daydream Software (Booth 2900): Traitors Gate, realistic graphic adventure game where player must steal a valuable treasure, Clusterball, online 3D driving arcade game, SnoPRO, online snowmobile racing game. (more info)

(The listed above are preliminary and subject to be changed.)

(Source: Mac Gamer's Ledge E3 page, MacNN - E3 News Coverage, IMG's Electronic Entertainment Expo Page)
Game Updates: -- Realmz 6.1.3 (Fantasoft): Popular 2D top view and 3D maze view epic fantasy role playing game. Full version file size is 14.3 MB (more info), updater size is 376 KB (more info). Also, the scenario Trouble in the Sword Lands has been updated to 6.1.4 with file size 1.9 MB (more info). Shareware $20.
Followup: As of June 3, Realmz has been updated to 6.1.3.

-- F/A-18 Korea GL 1.1b1 (Graphic Simulations): Mission oriented multipurpose fighter simulator featuring texture mapping. The GL version supports Voodoo II as well as ATI cards using OpenGL. Also supports USB controllers using InputSprocket. Updater size is 3.1 MB (more info).

5/12/99 (Wed)

Game Updates: -- Kaito Gokko 1.1* (Takeshi Sakai*): Unique arcade game where player hides a safe and beats a thief. Version 1.1 features minor improvements and a bug fix. File size is 1.3 MB*. Freeware. Japanese software.

-- memories 2.1.1* (GON!*): Memory game using picture cards. Version 2.1.1 changes the screen layout. File size of PPC version is 639 KB*, 68K version is 648 KB*. Freeware. English software with Japanese manual.

5/11/99 (Tue)

Mini Game Collection "George Namahage": B-Factory has released George Namahage. George Namahage is a roll and move-style mini game collection based on a unique Japanese clay animation work of the same name. It contains a variety of Japanese traditional games and video clips. Requires 68040 (PowerPC recommended), System 7.5 or later, free memory 7 MB or larger, 640 x 480/32,000 colors or better, CD-ROM 2x or faster (8x or faster recommended), QuickTime. Available as hybrid CD-ROM at retail stores in Japan. Japanese software.
Game Updates: -- English Speech Recognition 1.5.4 (Apple Computer): Speech recognition driver software. Version 1.5.4 supports 44.1 kHz sound input hardware such as iMacs. File size is 1.8 MB.

-- OpenGL 1.0 (Apple Computer): Standard graphic library supporting Rage series. The final release version. File size is 4.8 MB.

-- Quake 3 Test: Phase III 1.0.5 (id Software): Public test version of Quake 3: Arena, the newest installment of the high-featured 3D first person shooting. Full version size is 22.3 MB (more info).

-- Chocoletters 1.2.3 (Pierre Durand): Puzzle game where player guesses hidden letters on a grid. Version 1.2.3 improves the sound playback and fixes a bug. File size is 469 KB. Shareware $10.

5/10/99 (Mon)

Battlefront.com: New Publisher for War Simulations: The founders of Big Time Software and Frontal Assaultware, known for several war simulation games for Mac, have established new publisher Battlefront.com. Battlefront.com focuses on war simulation games and offers following popular titles directly:

-- Achtung Spitfire! (Big Time Software): WWII war simulation game focusing on Battle of Britain. $25.

-- Flight Commander 2 (Big Time Software): Modern air combat war simulation game. $15.

-- Over the Reich (Big Time Software): WWII air combat strategy role playing game set in Germany. $25.

-- Onslaught (Frontal Assaultware): Non-historical modern strategic level war simulation game. $10.

They will release Combat Mission: Beyond Overlord, a Squad Leader-type turn-based tactical combat simulation game featuring 3D miniature view developed by Big Time Software, in this summer. Preorder is available now for $45. Also, they will be the publisher of TacOps Classic 2.0, re-released version of the popular modern army war simulation developed by Major Holdridge.
(Source: MacGaming.com, IMG)
Puzzle Game "TakoyakiSweeper": RedShirt Studio has released TakoyakiSweeper*. TakoyakiSweeper is a simple game where player picks up all balls. It is well enjoyable for children thanks to the easy rule. File size is 201 KB*. Shareware ¥800 or $8. Japanese software.
Game Updates: -- Mac Descent 3Dfx 1.23 (Duane Johnson): Unofficial Descent updater that supports 3Dfx. File size of Mac Descent 1 3Dfx is 1.7 MB, Mac Descent 2 3Dfx is 1.7 MB, Mac Descent 1 Software is 1.7 MB, Mac Descent 2 Software is 1.7 MB. Causeware.
Followup: As of June 3, Mac Descent 3Dfx has been updated to 1.27.

-- MesaQuake 3.1beta11 (Miklos Fazekas): OpenGL compatible library for Quake 3 Test that supports 3Dfx cards. File size is 449 KB (more info).

-- Crossword Express 3.5 (AUS-PC-SOFT): Crossword puzzle making tool. Full version file size is 866 KB, updater is 158 KB (more info). Shareware $35. Also, Crossword Express Player has been updated to version 1.2 with file size 158 KB.

-- UNO 1.2 e (Mikael Bergerholm): Popular card game to play against computer players. Version 1.2 e adds several options. File size is 245 KB. Shareware $5.

-- Clan Lord v75 (Delta Tao Software): Online fantasy role playing game. Version v75 now supports CD-ROM users. File size of updater for CD-ROM users is 549 KB, full test version is 18.2 MB, updater for test version is 277 KB (more info).
Followup: As of June 10, Clan Lord has been updated to v88.

-- Connect 4 1.1.8 (Miles MIchelson): Computer version of classic Connect 4 table game. Version 1.1.8 features the faster computer routine, more difficulty levels, more board sizes, and other improvements/fixes. File size is 211 KB.

-- Pajasto 2.7 (Kari Kulmala): Finnish coin arcade game. Version 2.7 supports larger screens and fixes bugs. File size is 144 KB.

5/6/99 (Thu)

Othello-like Board Game "Chromosomethingorother": F.I.D.I.M. Interactive has released Chromosomethingorother. Chromosomethingorother is a Othello-like board game with theme of biotechnology where player collects 23 chromosomes to win. File size is 2.9 MB. Shareware $15. (Source: Version Tracker)
Invader-type Arcade Game "UCHU-JIN SHINRYAKU": HEISEI GAME NAGAYA* has released UCHU-JIN SHINRYAKU*. UCHU-JIN SHINRYAKU is a unique invader-type arcade game where player pushes back aliens by shooting them. File size is 142 KB*. Requires PowerPC 603e/160 MHz or better, QuickTime 3.0 or later. freeware. Japanese software.
Followup: As of June 10, UCHU-JIN SHINRYAKU has been updated to version 1.5.1.
Boka Battleships Released: Marc Boxall has released Boka Battleships. Boka Battleships is a Battleship-type strategy board game where player destroys enemy fleet by guessing the location. It can be played against computer with 7 different levels or played by 2 players on a single computer. File size is 197 KB. Shareware $5.
Networkable Tron Arcade "NetTron 2.0": Interius Software has released NetTron 2.0. NetTron is the networkable version of Tron Bike-type multiplayer arcade game where players run around the field while avoiding ruts each player have left. It features up to 4 player game and wide range of game options that allows a variety of game style such as racing and shooting. File size is 1.6 MB (more info). Shareware $15. (Source: Version Tracker)
Virtual Wings Professional Released: CAT III Systems has released Virtual Wings Professional. Virtual Wings Professional is an enhanced version of Virtual Wings, a realistic flight simulator/trainer for professional use. It simulates Cessna 172 Skyhawk and Aerospatiale TB 20 Trinidad, which are widely used for flight training, and features high quality scenery graphics using 3D RAVE, accurate aerodynamics modeling, the realistic cockpit, and the accurate navigation databases. Requires PowerPC, System 7.5 or later, RAM 32 MB or larger, QuickDraw 3D card. Available directly for $399. (Source: Version Tracker)
Game Demos: -- Star Wars Episode 1: The Gungan Frontier (Lucas Learning): Ecological simulation edutainment based on Star Wars Episode 1. File size is 29.6 MB (more info). Expected on May 24.

-- Railroad Tycoon II (Gathering of Developers): Sequel to the popular railroad management simulation game. File size is 52.7 MB (more info).
Followup: As of June 3, Railroad Tycoon II Demo has been updated to 1.0.5a.
Railroad Tycoon II Shipped, Demo Posted: Gathering of Developers has released Railroad Tycoon II. Railroad Tycoon II (Developer: Poptop Software, Porting: Westlake Interactive) is the latest installment of popular railroad management simulation series player manages a railroad company on the world-wide map spanning from 1804 to beyond 2000. It features high resolution 3D top-down graphics, sophisticated user interface allowing zooming and rotating, and networkable multiplay. Also, demo version is available with file size 52.7 MB (more info). Requires PowerPC/132 MHz or better, System 7.5.3 or later, RAM 16 MB or larger (32 MB or larger recommended), free HD 130 MB or larger, display 800 x 600 or better (1024 x 768 or better recommended), CD-ROM 4x or faster. Available at retail stores in USA.
Followup: As of June 3, Railroad Tycoon II has been updated to 1.0.5a.
Harpoon3 Released: Advanced Gaming Systems has released Harpoon3. Harpoon3 is The newest installment of popular modern naval war simulation which is the remade version of Harpoon II. The newest version supports new systems and improves the performance. Available directly for $35. (Source: MacGaming.com)
Followup: As of June 9, Harpoon3 has been updated to 3.0.2.
MacSoft Released "Mac FunPack": MacSoft has released Mac FunPack. Mac FunPack is a 36 games bundle pack of 5 MacSoft titles including Jack Nicklaus Golf 4, Casino Game Pack, Absolute Solitaire, Game Parlor, Diamonds 3D. Available at retail stores in USA or directly for $19.99.
Flight Simulator Bundle "iFlight": Aztech New Media has released iFlight. iFlight is a bundle pack of 4 popular flight simulators including Apache, Flight Unlimited, A-10 Attack, A-10 Cuba. Requires PowerPC, System 7.5.3 or later, RAM 16 MB or larger (25 MB or larger for Apache), 256 colors or better, CD-ROM 2x or faster. Available at retail stores in USA and Canada or directly for $19.99.
Retro Game 500 Series Shipped: Inner Brain* has released Retro Game 500 Series. It is a series of low priced mini game CD-ROMs consisting following 2 titles:

-- Pon Pon Basket: Classic arcade-style simple toy basketball game.

-- Piko Piko Wars: Tank battle-type simple shooting arcade game.

Each titles requires PowerPC 601/120 or better, Japanese Mac OS 7.6 or later (Mac OS 8.5 compatible), free memory 12 MB or larger, 640 x 480/256 colors or better, CD-ROM 6x or faster. Available as hybrid CD-ROM at retail stores in Japan. Japanese software.
Game Updates: -- Links LS 1.1.1 (Access Software): Networkable 3D golf simulation. Updater size is 1.6 MB (more info).

-- Native Assault 0.9a (Adrenaline Entertainment): Missile Command-type 2D arcade game. Version 0.9a fixes a bug that causes crash under System 7.x. File size is 1.1 MB (more info). Public beta version.
Followup: As of June 7, final version of Native Assault has been released.

-- The Battle of Britain II 2.5 (Deadly/Games): Operation-oriented WWII air battle simulation game. Version 2.5 supports G3 Macs and Mac OS 8.x. Updater from version 2.3.1 or later is 1.8 MB (more info). Also, demo version is updated with file size 2.0 MB (more info).

5/3/99 (Mon)

Game Updates: -- InputSprocket 1.4.1 (Apple Computer): Input device library for game developers. 1.4.1 fixes bugs such as international-related one. File size is 2.3 MB (more info).

-- MesaQuake 3.1beta9 (Miklos Fazekas): OpenGL compatible library for Quake 3 Test that supports 3Dfx cards. File size is 446 KB (more info).
Followup: As of May 10, MesaQuake has been updated to 3.1beta11.

-- Clan Lord v74 (Delta Tao Software): Online fantasy role playing game. File size is 18.2 MB, updater is 275 KB (more info).
Followup: As of June 10, Clan Lord has been updated to v88.

-- Mac Descent 3Dfx 1.21 (Duane Johnson): Unofficial Descent updater that supports 3Dfx. Version 1.21 features optimization and bug fixes. File size of Mac Descent 1 3Dfx is 1.7 MB, Mac Descent 2 3Dfx is 1.7 MB. Causeware.
Followup: As of June 3, Mac Descent 3Dfx has been updated to 1.27.

-- Quake 3 Test: Phase II 1.0.3 (id Software): Public test version of Quake 3: Arena, the newest installment of the high-featured 3D first person shooting. Full version size is 21.5 MB, updater size is 603 KB (more info).
Followup: As of May 11, Quake 3 Test has been updated to Phase III 1.0.5.

-- David's Backgammon 2.8.3 (David Byrum): Backgammon game with many features. Version 2.8.3 fixes problem on registration code. File size is 290 KB. Shareware $20.
Followup: As of June 8, David's Backgammon has been updated to version 2.8.6.

-- ChessWorks 1.4.2 (Mike Bailey): Chess program only for head-to-head net play. Version 1.4.2 fixes a crushing bug at moving a piece. File size is 514 KB (more info). Freeware.
Followup: As of June 11, ChessWorks has been updated to 1.7.6.