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 Some of versions and links in this page may be outdated.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

6/30/99 (Wed)

WWII SkyFighters 2000 Preview Version Posted

Bullseye Software releases the preview version of WWII SkyFighters 2000. WWII SkyFighters 2000 is an upcoming enhanced version of popular networkable WWII flight simulator featuring high quality scenery graphics with textures, dynamic lighting effects, and shading using 3D RAVE. It also features mission-oriented single/multi play support by computer AI, air-versus-ground battle with bombing and base defenses, 8 aircraft types such as Mustang and Focke Wolf, and USB joystick support by InputSprocket. File size is 2.5 MB. Full retail version will be available directly for $39.95. (Source: MacGaming.com)

Game Demos (World-Wide)

-- Virtual Wings Professional (CAT III Systems): Realistic flight simulator/trainer for professional use. File size is 8.0 MB (more info). Full version is available directly for $399.

Game Updates (World-Wide)

-- Turtle Dice 2.0 (Turtle Productions): Yahzee-like solitaire dice game. Version 2.0 adds score previews and lots of customization options as well as 68K Mac support. File size for PPC is 971 KB, 68K is 787 KB. Shareware $10

6/28/99 (Mon)

Pangea Software Released Bugdom

Pangea Software has released Bugdom. Bugdom is a unique 3D insect action game where player, as a brave bug Rollie McFly, explores an insect kingdom called Bugdom to save the Lady Bugs captured by Fire Ants. It features high quality 3D graphics with several effects, humorous 23 different bugs, 10 huge exciting levels, and a variety of game play enjoyable for the whole family. Available directly for $37.95. Also, demo version is available with file size 6.2 MB (more info).

For Japanese users, Japan Central* releases Bugdom with a Japanese manual in this week.
Followup: Bugdom with Japanese manual* has been released on June 28 for $34.95.

44 Card Game Collection "Ace"

Candy House has released Ace. Ace is a collection of card games including 22 solitaire games and 22 group games played against computer. It contains not only well-known games such as Klondike and Gin Rummy, but also Japanese popular games such as 7-narabe and Speed. File size is 1.2 MB. Shareware ¥2,000. Japanese software. (Source: MacWIRE Express*)

Game Updates (World-Wide)

-- Clan Lord v82 (Delta Tao Software): Online fantasy role playing game. File size of updater for CD-ROM users is 1.2 MB, full test version is 18.8 MB, updater for test version is 444 KB (more info).
Followup: As of July 8, Clan Lord has been updated to v84.

6/26/99 (Sat)

Unique Betting Race Simulation Game "Squirt Derby!"

Prisim Software has released Squirt Derby! It is a unique betting race simulation game where player powers up his own racer by training and weapons, and bets on a racer. It features 4 humorous racing characters, a variety of power up and items, and helpful people such as a tipster, a usurer, an illegal agent to boost the racer. File size is 7.7 MB. Freeware but users must send an E-mail to the author.

Game Updates (World-Wide)

-- Falcon 4.0 1.0.6c (Westlake Interactive): Flight simulator and air combat simulation of F-16 Falcon. Version 1.0.6c fixes bugs in display settings, control settings, non-PCI Mac support, and interface. Also, the unsupported RAVE patch supporting older ATI drivers is included. Updater size is 1.6 MB (more info).

-- Railroad Tycoon II 1.0.5b (Westlake Interactive): Sequel to the railroad management simulation game. Version 1.0.5b fixes bugs only in the scenario editor. Updater size is 748 KB (more info).

-- Realmz 6.2 (Fantasoft): Popular 2D top view and 3D maze view epic fantasy role playing game. Version 6.2 features internal additions in the scenario player and other improvements. Full version file size is 14.4 MB, updater size is 426 KB (more info). Shareware $20.

-- Trinity 1.0.3 (Divinity Software): Triangle-matching puzzle game played against computer players. Version 1.0.3 fixes bugs such as monitor-related problems. File size is 1.2 MB. Shareware $15.

Game Updates (Japanese)

-- Power Rally Special Stage 2.0* (ORION PROJECT*): 2D scrolling rally racing simulation game. Version 2.0 features new courses, new machines, and the level-up system. File size is 2.4 MB*. Shareware* ¥500. Japanese software.

-- Gammen Suijaku 2.0.1* (Kiyoshi Takeuchi*): Concentration-style card game. Version 2.0.1 improves the program internally. File size is 741 KB* (more info*). Freeware.

6/24/99 (Thu)

Caesar III Released

Sierra Studios has released Caesar III. Caesar III is the latest installment of an empire management simulation game set in the ancient Roman Empire where player builds, manages, and defend a Roman city and make the career to become a Caesar. It features real-time game play with a variety of elements, the career system, and upgraded graphics/sounds/interface. Requires PowerPC/100 MHz or better, Mac OS 7.6.1 or later, RAM 32 MB or larger, free HD 150 MB or larger, 800 x 600/32,000 colors or better, CD-ROM 4x or faster. Available at retail stores in USA or directly for $49.95. Also, demo version is available with file size 19.0 MB (more info).

Game Updates (World-Wide)

-- ChessWorks 1.8.5 (Mike Bailey): Chess program only for head-to-head net play. Version 1.8.5 fixes a bug at displaying the player name. Size of the updater is 98 KB, full version is 579 KB (more info). Freeware.
Followup: As of July 3, ChessWorks has been updated to 1.8.8.

-- X-Plane 5.01 (Laminar Research): Full-featured civilian flight simulator with beautiful texture graphics. Version 5.01 features improved propellers graphics, different fuselage textures for the left and right side, and other improvements. Demo/Upgrade file size is 38.3 MB (more info).
Followup: As of July 3, X-Plane has been updated to 5.02.

6/23/99 (Wed)

Apple Japan Posted Japanese Game Page

Apple Computer Japan*, who has not so been interested in Japanese game market, has finally posted a Japanese game page* in their iMac site. The page introduces several in-store and upcoming domestic titles as well as localized version of oversea games. (Source: MacWIRE Express* and others)

Game Updates (World-Wide)

-- Unreal 2.2.4 Beta 4 (Westlake Interactive): High quality 3D first person shooting adventure game. Version 2.2.4 Beta 4 fixes several problems such as the slow down. The size of updater from 2.2.4 Beta 1 or later is 969 KB (more info).

6/22/99 (Tue)

Game Updates (World-Wide)

-- MacPuyo 1.0.4 (Liquid Metal Software): Puzzle arcade game like Japanese popular game "Puyo Puyo." File size is 1.8 MB (more info). Shareware $15.

6/21/99 (Mon)

360-degree Breakout Arcade Game "Vortex"

Rocco Bowling has released Vortex. Vortex is a unique Breakout-style arcade game where player controls 360-degree rotating paddle to smash the blocks. It features a myriad of special effects, various power-up items, a range of options. The game contains over 20 levels and a level editor. File size is 1.2 MB. Requires System 7.0 or later, free memory 6 MB or larger, free HD 2 MB or larger, 640 x 480/256 colors or better, QuickTime 2.0 or later. Notice: The software may be unplayable on certain machines including iMac due to a system error. Shareware $15. (Source: MacGaming.com, Version Tracker)

Simple and Exiting Strategy Board Game "Lost Souls"

Richard White and SpiderWeb Software has released Lost Souls. Lost Souls is a turn-based fantasy strategy board game where player moves tokens to defeat enemy tokens and to capture enemy territory. It is a simple game like Chess but features much more strategic game play such as building bridges, creating units, collecting Mana (energy points). The game contains 60 levels with various terrain. File size is 1.6 MB. 68030/25 MHz or better, System 7.0 or later, free memory 5 MB or larger, free HD 2.5 MB or larger, 640 x 480/32,000 colors or better. Shareware $15. (Source: MacGaming.com, MGL)

ShangHai-type Mah Jong Puzzle Game "BlueDragon"

Katsumi Ishizaki has released BlueDragon*. BlueDragon is a ShangHai-type Mah Jong tile puzzle game including 8 tile layouts and built-in layout editor. It features challenging game play thanks to the time limit. Also, the special program allows the player always to be able to finish games. File size is 411 KB*. Shareware ¥1,000. Japanese software.

Game Updates (World-Wide)

-- A Farewell to Kings 1.5.2 (Rob D. Steward): New solitaire card game requires strategy rather than luck. Version 1.5.2 fixes a freezing bug. File size is 464 KB. Shareware $5.

-- Bub & Bob 1.4.3 (Sebastian Wegner): 2D arcade game like Bubble Bobble. Version 1.4.3 fixed problems such as bugs with new system. File size is 1.8 MB (more info). Shareware $20.

-- ChessWorks 1.8.4 (Mike Bailey): Chess program only for head-to-head net play. Version 1.8.4 adds new boards and fixes several bugs. Size of the updater is 105 KB, full version is 578 KB (more info). Freeware.
Followup: As of July 3, ChessWorks has been updated to 1.8.8.

-- Native Assault 1.2 (Adrenaline Entertainment): Missile Command-type 2D arcade game. Version 1.2 features many bug fixes and improvements. File size is 3.0 MB. Shareware $20.

-- Nethergate 1.0.3 (SpiderWeb Software): Quasi-3D Fantasy role playing game with theme of the battle between Romans and Celts in ancient Britannia. Version 1.0.3 fixes a graphics-related bug in Mac OS 8.6. Updater size is 1.3 MB (more info).

-- Pac the Man 4.0.1 (Sebastian Wegner): Packman arcade game. Version 4.0.1 fixed problems such as bugs with new system. File size is 422 KB (more info). Freeware.

-- Unreal 2.2.4 Beta 3 (Westlake Interactive): High quality 3D first person shooting adventure game. Version 2.2.4 Beta 3 fixes problems with AppleTalk games, moving platforms, certain third party maps, and others. The size of updater from 2.2.4 Beta 1 is 969 KB (more info). Also, a modification file installer Umod Installer is available with file size 406 KB.
Followup: As of June 23, Unreal has been updated to version 2.2.4 Beta 4.

-- Warbirds 2.7 (iMagic Entertainment Network): WWII flight simulator for net play with various aircraft. File size is 10.8 MB, updater from 2.6 is 1.5 MB.

6/18/99 (Fri)

LucasArts Adventure Pack Released

MicroMouse* has released LucasArts Adventure Pack. It is a Bundle pack including Japanese version of following 3 old LucasArts Entertainment titles:

-- Indiana Jones and the Fate of Atlantis*: Adventure game based on new story of Indiana Jones series.
-- Indiana Jones and his Desktop Adventures*: Arcade-style puzzle adventure game.
-- The DIG*: Sci-fi space adventure game by Steven Spielberg.

Requires Japanese System 7.1 or later, RAM 12 MB or larger, free memory 6 MB or larger, CD-ROM 2x or faster. Available at retail stores in Japan.

Sci-fi Space Strategy Game Based on "Legend of the Galactic Heroes"

Bothtec* has released Ginga Eiyu Densetsu V* (Legend of the Galactic Heroes V). It is a sci-fi space strategy game based on popular Japanese sci-fi space anime series "Legend of the Galactic Heroes." The player takes the role of ether Reinhard of The Galactic Empire or Yang Wen-Li of Fleet Planets Alliance and carries mission scenarios as an admiral. It features over 60 scenarios played in ether campaign mode or scenario mode, easy interface, a variety of units and commanders, and movie scenes using 3D graphics. Requires PowerPC 603e or better (G3 recommended), Mac OS 8.0 or later, RAM 32 MB or larger (64 MB or larger recommended), HD 60 MB or larger, 640 x 480/32,000 colors or better (800 x 600 recommended), CD-ROM, QuickTime 3.0 or later. Available at retail stores in Japan. Japanese software. Also, Ginga Eiyu Densetsu V Plus, that is a bundle set of the game and screen savers, is available.

Game Demos

-- Traitors Gate (Daydream Software): Realistic graphic adventure game where player steals a valuable treasure rigidly protected. File size is 31.3 MB (more info).

Game Updates (World-Wide)

-- Battle for the Universe 1.0.2 (Misty Software): Asteroid-type strategic 2D space shooting game. Version 1.0.2 fixes a bug related to net games. File size is 1.9 MB. Shareware $20.

-- ChessWorks 1.8.2 (Mike Bailey): Chess program only for head-to-head net play. Version 1.8.2 fixes a minor tracker bug and added new trackers. Size of the updater is 71 KB, full version is 535 KB (more info). Freeware.
Followup: As of June 24, ChessWorks has been updated to 1.8.5.

6/17/99 (Thu)

Game Updates (Word-Wide)

-- ATI Video Software Update 1.0 (Apple Computer): Driver update for ATI Rage Pro/128 of iMac, PowerBook G3, New Power Macintosh G3, and ATI Rage 128 card. Requires Mac OS 8.6. File size is 1.3 MB.

-- ChessWorks 1.8.1 (Mike Bailey): Chess program only for head-to-head net play. Version 1.8.1 improves the Drag Piece mode and features other improvements and fixes. File size is 534 KB (more info). Freeware.
Followup: As of June 24, ChessWorks has been updated to 1.8.5.

-- PacMac Deluxe 1.3 (DAPPSoft): PackMan-like arcade game. Version 1.3 features over 1,000 additional levels, support for new systems, and other improvements. File size is 2.0 MB (more info). Shareware $15.

-- Tracktor Beam 1.2 (Tri-Bar Software): Addictive sci-fi arcade game where player carries a crate using the tractor beam. Version 1.2 fixes a bug on PowerPC. Size of the updater from version 1.1 is 441 KB, full version is 1.2 MB. Shareware $10.

6/16/99 (Wed)

Electronic Arts Releases Skydive! in June. Preorder Available.

Electronic Arts Store has indicated that Electronic Arts releases Skydive! in June as hybrid CD-ROM. Developed by Gonzo Games, Skydive! is a realistic skydiving simulator with photo-like third person screen where player can enjoy three phases of the diving: Free-Fall with various maneuvers, Target Course to pass through floating target, and Landing Accuracy to land as close as possible to ground targets. Preorder is available for $19.95. (Source: MacWarrior)

Board Puzzle Game "Silver&Wood"

Christine Zobel has released Silver&Wood. Silver&Wood is a solitaire puzzle game based on an ancient board game like Checker. The player must removes all balls from a the board by hopping a ball over another. The game contains a variation of board layouts as well as an editor to create new layouts. File size is 914 KB (more info). Shareware $10 or 15 DM.

Game Demos

-- Harpoon3 (Advanced Gaming Systems): The newest version of popular modern naval war simulation. File size is 17.8 MB. Available directly for $35.

Game Updates (World-Wide)

-- ChessWorks 1.7.9 (Mike Bailey): Chess program only for head-to-head net play. Version 1.7.9 adds Drag Piece option and fixes a minor sound bug. File size is 592 KB (more info). Freeware.
Followup: As of June 24, ChessWorks has been updated to 1.8.5.

-- David's Backgammon 2.8.8 (David Byrum): Backgammon game with many features. Version 2.8.8 fixes bugs and adds game options. File size is 295 KB. Shareware $20.

-- Harpoon3 3.0.3 (Advanced Gaming Systems): The newest version of popular modern naval war simulation. Version 3.0.3 fixes some movies, improves the startup speed, and fixes a sound bug. Updater size is 323 KB (more info).

-- TheZone 1.5.1 (DAPPSoft): Asteroids-style omnidirectional 2D shooting arcade game. Version 1.5.1 features several bug fixes and improvements. File size is 1.5 MB (more info). Shareware $10.

6/15/99 (Tue)

Redneck Rampage Shipped

Logicware shipped Redneck Rampage. Redneck Rampage is a humorous 3D first person shooting game set in southern USA, where player fights against aliens coming to a rural town. It features 14 levels with rustic atmosphere, fast action fighting by 9 unique weapons, and hilarious detail and dialogue. Requires PowerPC, System 7.5.3 or later, free memory 16 MB or larger, free HD 30 MB or larger, 640 x 480/256 colors or better, CD-ROM 2x or faster. Available at retail stores in USA.

Game Updates (World-Wide)

-- CrashBall 2.0An (Cedric Protti): Invader-type shooting arcade game where player shoots bouncing balls. File size is 1,008 KB. Shareware $10.

-- Joy Of Hex 1.2.0 (Single Brain Cell): Hex board style strategy war simulation game. File size is 3.0 MB. Shareware $39.

-- ChessWorks 1.7.7 (Mike Bailey): Chess program only for head-to-head net play. Version 1.7.7 fixes a bug in calculating check mates and adds new board sets. File size is 582 KB (more info).
Freeware.
Followup: As of June 24, ChessWorks has been updated to 1.8.5.

-- Colonisation 3.2 (Alain Paschoud): Simple strategic war game. Version 3.2 features new terrain and units, key setting, and other improvements. File size is 399 KB. Shareware $10 or 15 FRS.

6/14/99 (Mon)

Mah Jong B-ROOM Released

Yoshiro Kato* has released Mah Jong B-ROOM*. Mah Jong B-ROOM is a full-featured Mah Jong game with various options and high quality character animation. File size is 1.8 MB* (more info*). Requires 68040 or better, Japanese System 7.1 or later, free memory 4 MB or larger, 640 x 480/32,000 colors or better. Shareware* ¥2,000. Japanese software.

Guess Who Board Game "Indovina"

DAPPSoft has released Indovina. Indovina is an inference board game like "Guess Who?" played against computer or LAN opponent where player guesses the opponent's face from 24 faces by some questions about its characteristics. The player can place questions by entering phrases or by using Questions Window. It also features player statistics, multi language support, and BGM management. File size is 2.8 MB (more info). Requires 68020 or better (68030/25 MHz or better recommended), System 7.0 or later, free memory 2.5 MB or larger (3 MB or larger for display 832 x 624 or larger), free HD 2 MB or larger, 640 x 280/256 colors or better, Sound Manager 3.0 or later. Shareware $20. (Source: MacGaming.com, MGL, Version Tracker)

Game Updates (World-Wide)

-- Bub & Bob 1.4.2 (Sebastian Wegner): 2D arcade game like Bubble Bobble. Version 1.4.2 supports InputSprocket and correctly hides Control Strip. File size is 1.8 MB (more info). Shareware $20.
Followup: As of June 21, Bub & Bob has been updated to 1.4.2.

-- Pac the Man 4.0 (Sebastian Wegner): Packman arcade game. Version 4.0 fixed a bug at music playback, adds resolution switching, adds InputSprocket support, and other improvements. File size is 433 KB (more info). Freeware.
Followup: As of June 21, Pac the Man has been updated to 4.0.1.

Game Updates (Japanese)

-- 9 x 9 2.0* (Shinya Sadahisa*): Japanese popular puzzle game also called "Number Place." File size is 314 KB*, MacLHA* is needed to extract the archive. Freeware. Japanese software.

-- Nankin-Mushi 2.0.1* (Kiyoshi Takeuchi*): Puzzle game resembles MineSweeper where player finds out bugs. Version 2.0.1 features new program, improved screen, and sound effect. File size is 803 KB* (more info*). Freeware. Japanese software.

-- Netto Ozumo 1.2* (KIMCO*): Sumo simulation game stack featuring real world ozumo wrestlers. Version 1.2 updates the wrestlers data and improves the game performance. File size is 1.2 MB* (more info*). Freeware. Japanese software.

6/12/99 (Sat)

COMBAT SPECIAL MAC Bundles 3 Nova Logic Titles

MicroMouse* has released COMBAT SPECIAL MAC*. It is a Bundle pack consists Japanese version of following 3 old Nova Logic titles:

-- Comanche: Military helicoptor simulator
-- Wolfpack: WWII submarine/destroyer simulator
-- Werewolf vs. Comanche 2: Networkable military helicoptor simulator

Requires PowerPC (supported iMac), Japanese System 7.5 or later, free memory 12 MB or larger, 640 x 480/256 colors or better, CD-ROM 2x or faster. Available at retail stores in Japan.

Game Demos

-- Bugdom* (Japan Central*): High quality 3D insect action arcade game developed by Pangea Software. File size is 9.2 MB*. Preorder* from Japan is available for $29.95. Expected in late-June.

6/11/99 (Fri)

New Titles of The Hoyle Series Released

Sierra Attractions has released new titles of The Hoyle Series. The Hoyle Series is a well-known classic board/card game collection series featuring many game variations/options, humorous characters, amazing animation, and customizable play environment. Following are the new 4 titles.

-- Hoyle Craps & Blackjack: Casino game collection including Blackjack, Pai Gow Poker, and Craps. Available directly for $19.95.
-- Hoyle Slots & Video Poker: Casino game collection including Slots, Video Poker, and Horse Racing. Available directly for $19.95.
-- Hoyle Solitaire & Mahjong Tiles: Collection of solitaire card games and Shanghai-type Mahjong puzzle games. Available directly for $19.95.
-- Hoyle Backgammon & Cribbage: Table game collection including Backgammon and Cribbage. Available directly for $14.95.

These titles consist games from already-released Hoyle Card Games, Hoyle Board Games, and Hoyle Casino and are rearranged for lower prices. Each titles requires PowerPC (G3 recommended), System 7.5.3 or later (Mac OS 8.1 or later recommended), RAM 16 MB or larger (32 MB or larger recommended), 640 x 480/256 colors or better (32,000 colors or better recommended), CD-ROM 2x or faster (4x or faster recommended). Available as hybrid CD-ROM at retail stores in USA or directly from Sierra.

Game Updates (World-Wide)

-- ChessWorks 1.7.6 (Mike Bailey): Chess program only for head-to-head net play. Version 1.7.6 adds save game feature and Replay option that allow to replay opponent's last move. File size is 558 KB (more info). Freeware.
Followup: As of June 18, ChessWorks has been updated to 1.8.2.

-- Cricket 4.0 (G.E.Randall): Cricket simulation game. Version 4.0 features improved graphics and sounds. File size is 1.4 MB. Shareware £15.

6/10/99 (Thu)

Game Demos

-- TriBond (Patch Products): Strategy game using unique triangular board. File size is 18.4 MB (more info).

Game Updates (Japanese)

-- UCHU-JIN SHINRYAKU 1.5.1* (HEISEI GAME NAGAYA*): Simple and compact invader-type shooting arcade game. Version 1.5.1 fixes bugs and improves the program. File size is 106 KB* (more info*). Freeware. Japanese software.

Game Updates (World-Wide)

-- A Farewell to Kings 1.5.1 (Rob D. Steward): New solitaire card game requires strategy rather than luck. Version 1.5.1 fixes a crash at millions of colors and a bug on the registration dialog. File size is 462 KB. Shareware $5.

-- Anubis Casino 1.0.4 (Anubis): Casino game collection including 7 popular games. File size is 797 KB. Shareware $20.

-- Clan Lord v80 (Delta Tao Software): Online fantasy role playing game. File size of updater for CD-ROM users is 1.1 MB, full test version is 18.7 MB, updater for test version is 568 KB (more info).

6/9/99 (Wed)

Game Updates (World-Wide)

-- Harpoon3 3.0.2 (Advanced Gaming Systems): The newest version of popular modern naval war simulation. Version 3.0.2 fixes some movies and improves the sound routine. Updater size is 292 KB (more info).
Followup: As of June 16, Harpoon3 has been updated to version 3.0.3.

-- HyperGames 2.0 (HyperInfo Canada): HyperCard stack including more than 50 games and tools. File size is 433 KB. Shareware $10.

-- Unreal 2.2.4 Beta 2 (Westlake Interactive): High quality 3D first person shooting adventure game. Version 2.2.4 Beta 2 fixes slow downs with RAVE and problems with the Speech option. The size of updater from 2.2.4 Beta 1 is 104 KB (more info).

6/8/99 (Tue)

Game Updates (World-Wide)

-- David's Backgammon 2.8.6 (David Byrum): Backgammon game with many features. Version 2.8.6 fixes a problem in version 2.8.5. File size is 293 KB. Shareware $20.
Followup: As of June 16, David's Backgammon has been updated to version 2.8.8.

Japan Central Starts Preorder of Bugdom for Japanese Market

Japan Central* (Pacific Software Publishing) releases Japanese market version of Bugdom* in mid-June. Developed by Pangea Software, Bugdom is a unique 3D insect action game where player, as a brave bug Rollie McFly, explores an insect kingdom called Bugdom to save the Lady Bugs captured by Fire Ants. It features high quality 3D graphics with several effects, humorous 23 different bugs, 10 huge exciting levels, and a variety of game play such as fighting against Fire Ants and riding a water strider. Requires PowerPC G3/233 MHz or better (compatible with any iMac), Mac OS 8 or later, RAM 32 MB or larger, display 640 x 480 or better, ATI Rage series 3D card, VRAM 2 MB or larger (4 MB or larger recommended). Preorder* is available now for $29.95.

6/7/99 (Mon)

Shooting Game Stack "Kagan Keibitai"

C.I.K.SOFT CIKS* has released Kagan Keibitai*. Kagan Keibitai is a simple shooting game stack where player shoots enemy ships passing along a river. File size is 50 KB*. Freeware.

New Solitaire Card Game "A Farewell to Kings"

Rob D. Steward has released A Farewell to Kings. A Farewell to Kings is a new solitaire card game where player places cards in order that all adjacent cards match in suit or rank. It features challenging game play that requires strategy rather than luck. File size is 455 KB. Shareware $5. (Source: Version Tracker)
Followup: As of June 10, A Farewell to Kings has been updated to version 1.5.1.

Age of Empires Available to Preorder

MacSoft starts taking preorder of upcoming Age of Empires. Age of Empires is a realtime strategy game where player construct one of ancient civilizations and manages it for long time span. Requires PowerPC 603/150 MHz, PowerPC 604/120 MHz or better (604/150 MHz or better recommended for net play), RAM 32 MB or larger, free HD 70 MB or larger, CD-ROM. 28.8 Kbps or faster modem is required for net play. It only supports Mac to Mac net play. Preorder is available now for $49.99. Expected on July 6. (Source: MGL, Mach One*)

Pangea Software Re-released Weekend Warrior as Freeware

Pangea Software has re-released Weekend Warrior as freeware. Weekend Warrior is TV show-like 3D action game featuring unique game play and humorous characters that was published by Bungie Software Products. File size is 33.9 MB. Requires PowerPC 601/100 MHz or better, RAM 16 MB or larger, 3D RAVE card recommended. For one without 3D RAVE card, it requires PowerPC 604/120 MHz or better (604e/180 MHz or better recommended), RAM 24 MB or larger. (Source: MacWarrior)

Twilight Express Golf Mac: Super Challenge Course Released

Twilight Express* shipped Twilight Express Golf Mac: Super Challenge Course*. Twilight Express Golf Mac is a series of low-priced 3D golf simulation games. A limited version of Jack Nicklaus 4 is used for the game engine and each title includes a new excellent course. Super Challenge Course offers imaginary course including 18 challenging holes for experienced players. 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 (including tax and shipping). Japanese software.

Game Updates (World-Wide)

-- ChessWorks 1.7.1 (Mike Bailey): Chess program only for head-to-head net play. Version 1.7.1 adds checkmate announces and fixes bugs. File size is 549 KB (more info). Freeware.
Followup: As of June 18, ChessWorks has been updated to 1.8.2.

-- Deep Sea (Foxchange Shareware): Anti-submarine shooting arcade game. The new shareware version improves graphics and game play. File size is 1,000 KB. Shareware $5.

-- Native Assault 1.0 (Adrenaline Entertainment): Missile Command-type 2D arcade game. This version is final version with many improvements whose beta version has already been released. File size is 3.0 MB. Shareware $20.

-- Tracktor Beam 1.1 (Tri-Bar Software): Addictive sci-fi arcade game where player carries a crate using the tractor beam. Version 1.1 features PowerPC native fat program, InputSprocket support, and other improvements. File size is 1.2 MB. Shareware $10.
Followup: As of June 17, Tracktor Beam has been updated to 1.2.

-- Unreal 2.2.4 Beta 1 (Westlake Interactive): High quality 3D first person shooting adventure game. Version 2.2.4 Beta 1 features support for PC version 224 and 225 servers, the new in-game server browser, and other changes/fixes. Updater size is 31.6 MB (more info).
Followup: As of June 9, Unreal has been updated to 2.2.4 Beta 2.

6/4/99 (Fri)

Game Updates (Japanese)

-- Ratsel 1.0.2* (Zauberkraft Software*): 2D puzzle arcade game like Lode Runner or Sokoban. Version 1.0.2 fixes a bug at displaying steps. File size is 1.2 MB*. Freeware. Japanese software.

Game Updates (World-Wide)

-- Anubis Casino 1.0.3 (Anubis): Casino game collection including 7 popular games. File size is 796 KB. Shareware $20.
Followup: As of June 10, Anubis Casino has been updated to version 1.0.4.

-- David's Backgammon 2.8.5 (David Byrum): Backgammon game with many features. Version 2.8.5 features new options, new stats, many improvements, and fixes. File size is 293 KB. Shareware $20.
Followup: As of June 8, David's Backgammon has been updated to version 2.8.6.

6/3/99 (Thu)

Game Demos

-- Tanaka (Pacific Media WorX): Sci-fi futuristic racing arcade game. File size is 12.3 MB (more info).
Followup: It is reported that the demo doesn't work with Rage 128 and ATI drivers included in OpenGL. Use drivers in ATI RAGE 128 Update 1.0. (Source: MGL)

Game Updates (Japanese)

-- Kingyo Sukui 1.4* (Dream Garden Software*): Arcade game of "Kingyo Sukui", a Japanese traditional fair-stall fishing game. Version 1.4 features bigger screen/characters and new bonus items. File size is 505 KB*. Freeware. Japanese software.

Game Updates (World-Wide)

-- Anubis Casino 1.0.2 (Anubis): Casino game collection including 7 popular games. File size is 784 KB. Shareware $20.
Followup: As of June 10, Anubis Casino has been updated to version 1.0.4.

-- ChessWorks 1.6 (Mike Bailey): Chess program only for head-to-head net play. Version 1.6 improve the protocol and adds network tracker. File size is 538 KB (more info). Freeware.
Followup: As of June 11, ChessWorks has been updated to 1.7.6.

-- Harpoon3 3.0.1 (Advanced Gaming Systems): The newest version of popular modern naval war simulation. Version 3.0.1 fixes several bugs. Updater size is 204 KB (more info).
Followup: As of June 9, Harpoon3 has been updated to 3.0.2.

-- Mac Descent 3Dfx/OpenGL 1.27 (Duane Johnson): Unofficial Descent updater that supports 3Dfx. Version 1.27 fixes several bugs. File size is 1.7 MB each (more info). Causeware.

-- Railroad Tycoon II 1.0.5a (Westlake Interactive): Sequel to the railroad management simulation game. Version 1.0.5a adds an alternate pause key for iMac, fixes a crash, and adds display options to support different video modes. Updater size is 662 KB (more info). Also, demo updater is available with file size 659 KB.

-- Realmz 6.1.5 (Fantasoft): Popular 2D top view and 3D maze view epic fantasy role playing game. Full version file size is 14.4 MB, updater size is 423 KB (more info). Also, the scenario Trouble in the Sword Lands has been updated with file size 1.9 MB (more info). Shareware $20.

-- The Fishin' Hole 1.5.2 (KB Productions): Simple fishing simulation game. Version 1.5.2 fixes problems with saving and loading games. File size is 4.1 MB (more info). Shareware $10.