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 Some of versions and links in this page may be outdated.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

9/30/99 (Thu)
[World] Game Updates (World-Wide)
-- Bub & Bob 1.5 (Sebastian Wegner): 2D arcade game like Bubble Bobble. Version 1.5 improves sounds and graphics, fixes problems with resolution switching, and adds new setting options. File size is 2.5 MB (more info). Shareware $20.

-- Pac the Man 4.0.2 (Sebastian Wegner): Packman arcade game. Version 4.0.2 fixes crash on System 7.5.x. File size is 4.0 MB, small version without music files is 605 KB (more info). Freeware.

-- Realmz 7.0.1 (Fantasoft): Popular 2D top view and 3D maze view epic fantasy role playing game. Full version size is 15.0 MB (more info), updater from version 7.0 is 370 KB (more info). Shareware $20.
Followup: As of October 10, Realmz has been updated to version 7.0.3.
9/29/99 (Wed)
[World] Ski3D Released
Zaphara Arts has released Ski3D. Ski3D is a 3D Alpine ski racing simulation game featuring a variety of courses from downhill to slalom. Although the graphics is based on plain polygons and not so remarkable, the game play is realistic and speedy with technical 12 courses. Also, a built-in course editor is available. File size is 4.3 MB. Requires PowerPC G3 or better, free memory 15 MB or larger (33 MB or larger recommended). Shareware $15.
[World] Game Updates (World-Wide)
-- Casino Rose 1.0.0a1 (Des Courtney): Tetris-like puzzle arcade game with theme of a slot machine. File size is 462 KB. Public alpha version.

-- X-Files Trivia Challenge 2.0.1 (CompleatMac Software): Trivia game of TV drama "X-Files". Version 2.0.1 features new questions covering all six seasons and a new online help system. File size is 1.9 MB. Shareware $10.
[Japan] Game Updates (Japanese)
-- Kingyo3 1.0.1 (Candy House): Humorous gold fish breeding software. Version 1.0.1 adds jellyfish and allows users to release fish. File size is 330 KB. Shareware ¥1,000.

-- Chakapoko Daitsuiseki M2* (Kei Matsumoto*): Humorous Whack-a-Mole-type arcade game where player whacks thieves. Version M2 fixes bugs on screen drawing. File size is 2.6 MB*. Shareware* ¥900.
9/28/99 (Tue)
[Swiss] Arkanoid-type Breakout Arcade Game "BrickBreak"
The Foundation Company has released BrickBreak. BrickBreak is an Arkanoid-type enhanced breakout arcade game featuring pre-rendered beautiful graphics, realistic stereo sound, and speedy game play with 100 levels. File size is 2.3 MB. Shareware SFr 10. (Source: MacUpdate.com)
9/27/99 (Mon)
[World] Game Updates (World-Wide)
-- Realmz 7.0 (Fantasoft): Popular 2D top view and 3D maze view epic fantasy role playing game. Version 7.0 features new terrain graphics, a new scenario "Twin Sands of Time", and many other improvements. File size is 15.0 MB (more info). Shareware $20. Also, Divinity, the scenario editing tool, has been updated to version 6.2.6 with updater size 2.7 MB (more info). Also, Realmz Character Editor has also been updated to version 7.0. Registered users of the Editor can get free upgrade (more info).
Followup: As of October 10, Realmz has been updated to version 7.0.3.

-- TRON-ish 1.8 (Lost Minds): Scrolling snake arcade game with various power-ups. Version 1.8 improved game speed, adds items, changes graphics of play field, and fixes bugs. File size is 943 KB. Shareware $5.
9/25/99 (Sat)
[Japan] Announcement: MacWIRE Online Posted Our Gaming Column
MacWIRE Online*, Japanese most popular mail/Web Mac Magazine published by SOFTBANK*, has posted our gaming column on their site. This is a comprehensive Mac gaming column we offer every Saturday that contains small reviews of new Mac games in Japan and world-wide as well as other useful game resources. You can read today's issue* on the Web but, sorry, it's Japanese only.

Contents of September 25 issue (Titles with * indicate Japanese softwares):
-- Mini Reviews: Deathground, French Toast, Mikan Bee*, "Train Simulator: Kintetsu Minami Osaka-sen, Yoshino-sen"*, Wings -Tsubasano Kiseki-*, Noshinto*
-- Other newest informations
[Japan] Game Demos
-- S.E.M!* (Usyagi*): Unique drama making game where player, as a sound director, inserts sound effects into a drama according to the story board. File size is 631 KB*.
[Japan] Jungle Park Gold Box Released
DIGITALOGUE* has released Jungle Park Gold Box*. Jungle Park Gold Box is a special edition of Jungle Park, unique adventure-type game where a humorous monkey explores the amazing island, bundled with Jungle Park Screen Saver Modoki and a key holder. Requires PowerPC, Japanese System 7.5 or later (Mac OS 8.6 supported), free memory 6 MB or larger, 256 colors or better. Available in limited quantity as hybrid CD-ROM at retail stores in Japan. Japanese software.
[Japan] MSD-Japan Published 4 Popular Shareware Games.
MSD-Japan* has released iGame 1500* series. iGame 1500 Series is a series of low-priced game CD-ROMs based on popular pre-registered shareware games. They can be played directly on the CD-ROM using Auto Play feature. Following 4 title are released:

-- Daifugo* (developed by Greg Munro): Networkable card game based on a freeware "Asshole". Japanese localized version.
-- Gomoku Narabe* (developed by Takashi Miyazono*): Pre-registered version of a shareware "The Gomoku Narabe*", a 5-in-a-line game with smart computer routine.
-- Reversi* (developed by Akio Hosokawa*): Pre-registered version of a shareware "Milk Cap*", an Othello game featuring strong algorithm and game variations.
-- Bullet Ex* (developed by Kijibato): Pre-registered version of a shareware "BulletEx*", a forward scrolling 2D shooting arcade game.

Available at retail stores in Japan for ¥1,500 each. Japanese softwares.
[Japan] New ¥500 Game CD-ROMs Released
SME Intermedia* has released following 4 new game titles of Shock Price 500 Series, a line of low-priced game CD-ROMs:

-- HYAKUNIN ISSHU: Japanese traditional card game involved with Japanese classic poetry "Wakas".
-- QUIZ 500: Variety trivia quiz game including 500 questions from 10 categories.
-- DIVING ACTION: 2D arcade game based on a popular shareware "NS-SHAFT" (developer: NAGI-P Soft). The player must quickly goes down the shaft of a mine.
-- GO! GO! OKUYAMA: 2D arcade game where player, as a sales man, runs street to get order sheets.

Also, another game publisher Inner Brain* has released following 2 new low-priced game titles:

-- TOKUTEN-OH: Collection of card games contains Japanese popular De-Bon and 51 that are played against humorous computer players.
-- PokaPoka Boxing: Unique boxing arcade game based on Japanese popular toy. Also, included is a character editor to create new computer characters.

Available as hybrid CD-ROMs at retail stores in Japan for ¥500 each. Japanese softwares.
Followup: Inner Brain has also released another card game collection "SEVEN's" that includes Japanese popular card games.
[Japan] Ceremony of Innocence Japanese Version Released. Directed by Peter Gabriel
Photon Lab* has released Ceremony of Innocence Japanese Version*. Ceremony of Innocence (developer: Real World MultiMedia, original publisher: Feral Entertainment, Japanese version co-production: REX ENTERTAINMENT*) is an Interactive story based on Griffin and Sabine Trilogy directed by Peter Gabriel, famous British musician also known as digital creator. The story consists of a bunch of letters from Griffin and Sabine, and the player solves mysterious tricks on each letter. It features surrealistic graphics, beautiful sound track, and famous Japanese voice actors. Requires PowerPC, Mac OS 7.6 or later, free memory 24 MB or larger, 640 x 480/32,000 colors or better, CD-ROM 4x or faster, QuickTime 2.5 or later. Available as hybrid CD-ROM at retail stores in Japan.
[Japan] Latest Installment of Nobunaga's Ambition Series "Nobunaga-no Yabo: Reppuden"
Koei* has released Nobunaga-no Yabo: Reppuden. It is the latest installment of popular strategy simulation game series of Japanese Civil War known as "Nobunaga's Ambition". The player takes the role of Nobunaga Oda or one of other shoguns in the history and manages his territory to conquer the whole Japan. The latest installment features new battle system and more strategic game play. Requires PowerPC 604/200 MHz or better (250 MHz or faster, or PowerPC G3/233 MHz or faster recommended, iMac supported), Mac OS 7.6 or later, free memory 42 MB or larger, free HD 150 MB or larger, 800 x 600/256 colors or better (1024 x 768 or better recommended), CD-ROM 2x or faster (4x or faster recommended), QuickTime 2.5 or later. Available at retail stores in Japan. Japanese software.
[USA] Gathering of Developers Released Fly!
Gathering of Developers has released Fly!. Fly! is an anticipated general aviation simulator focused on light aircrafts developed by Terminal Reality, known for original members of Microsoft Flight Simulator developing team. It has many features that offers realistic flight experience such as accurate flight modeling of real-world planes, realistic global scenery using Landsat photographic data, detailed interior graphics with fully accurate instruments, and the advanced navigation system to fly around the world easily. Also, it supports multiplay via the net with voice chat. Requires PowerPC/233 MHz or better, RAM 32 MB or larger (64 MB or larger recommended), free HD 300 MB or larger, 800 x 600/32,000 colors or better, 3D hardware recommended, InputSprocket support. Available at retail store in USA or directly for $49.95.

Japanese version* is expected to be released in late-October from P. & A.* (Preorder*).
[Japan] Game Updates (Japanese)
-- Mini AQUA 1.1D* (Sano): Simple aquarium simulation to breed fish. Version 1.1D allows users to breed another fish. File size is 822 KB*. Freeware but users must send a mail to the author (mailware).
9/24/99 (Fri)
[Germany] Moving Star Puzzle: Backstreet Boys Released
Ravensburger Interactive Media has released Moving Star Puzzle: Backstreet Boys. It is the latest installment of MOViNG PUZZLE series where player construct a movie from divided pieces. It features music clips of Backstreet Boys, a popular pop music group. Requires 68040/66 MHz or better, System 7.0 or later, free memory 9 MB or larger, CD-ROM 2x or faster. Available as hybrid CD-ROM at retail stores in USA and Europe or directly for 34.95 DM. (Source: MacGaming.com)
[USA] Graphic Simulations Accepting Preorder of Descent 3 and Baldur's Gate
Graphic Simulations started accepting preorder of upcoming Descent 3 and Baldur's Gate.

Descent 3 (developer: Outrage Entertainment, Volition, PC version publisher: Interplay Productions) is the latest installment of the popular 3D shooting adventure series. It features fully optimized net play, enhanced 3D engine with radiosity and special effects, 20 powerful weapons, a variety of smart bots. Requires PowerPC/233 MHz or faster, Mac OS 8 or later, RAM 32 MB or larger (64 MB or larger recommended), free HD 300 MB or larger, CD-ROM 6x or faster, ATI Rage card with VRAM 6 MB or 3Dfx card, Joystick recommended. Preorder is available for $45. Expected in early fall.

Baldur's Gate (developer: BioWare) is a computer version of Advanced Dungeon & Dragons, a famous role playing game series, based on The Forgotten Realmz scenario. It features fully AD & A-compliant characters/rules, beautiful isometric landscape/building graphics, and rich battle animations. Requires PowerPC (iMac supported), RAM 32 MB or larger. Preorder is available for $49.95. Expected in this fall.
(Source: IMG)
[World] Game Updates (World-Wide)
-- Cythera 1.0.3 (Ambrosia Software): 2D fantasy role playing game featuring sophisticated interface and complex scenario. Version 1.0.3 features features many bug fixes and improvements. File size is 6.8 MB (more info). Shareware $25

-- LeTarot 2.0 (Francois Uhrich): Popular French card game for 4 players. Version 2.0 features net play support and other improvements. File size is 6.6 MB (more info). Shareware $20, 120 F, or 18 Euros.

-- Warbirds 2.73r1 (iMagic Entertainment Network): WWII flight simulator for net play with various aircraft. Version 2.73r1 features new flight model, improved InputSprocket interface, and several bug fixes. Full version size is 11.2 MB, updater is 2.9 MB (more info). Also, some of the high resolution art files have been updated with file size 1.5 MB.
9/22/99 (Wed)
[USA] Total Annihilation Gold Edition Released
MacSoft has released Total Annihilation Gold Edition. Total Annihilation (developer: Cavedog Entertainment, porting: Westlake Interactive, PC version publisher: Varcon Systems) is a full featured topdown sci-fi real time strategy simulation game featuring 3D terrain of various landscapes, high quality graphics of units and buildings, and complex strategic elements. The Gold Edition also bundles Battle Tactics, a collection of quick tutorial missions, and The Core Contingency, an expansion kit. Requires PowerPC/150 MHz or faster (200 MHz or faster recommended), System 7.5.3 or later, RAM 16 MB or larger, free HD 40 MB or larger, 640 x 480/256 colors or better, 28.8 kbps modem or faster for modem play. For multiplay, it also requires PowerPC 180 MHz and RAM 24 MB or better for 4 players, PowerPC 200 MHz and RAM 32 MB or better for 8 players, PowerPC 233 MHz and RAM 48 MB or better for 10 players. Available at retail stores in USA or directly for $39.99.
[Japan] Complex Puzzle Game "Noshinto"
Yu Ito* has released Noshinto*. Noshinto is a puzzle game where player swaps pairs of color blocks to arrange same colored blocks in a line. It has complex rule and strict time limit that requires both quick and thoughtful game play. File size is 32 KB*. Requires PowerPC, Japanese System 7.5 or later. Freeware Japanese software.
[Japan] Sci-fi Role Playing Game Stack "Wings -Tsubasano Kiseki-"
Kohei Natori* has released Wings -Tsubasano Kiseki-*. Wings is a sci-fi role playing game stack where player, as a girl-type cyborg, explore the future world after a great war. Although the graphics is rather poor, it has elaborated story and smooth game play. File size is 935 KB*. MacLHA* is needed to extract the archive. PowerPC recommended. Requires free memory 3 MB or larger, Japanese HyperCard 2.2 or later, QuickTime 2.0 or later. Freeware. Japanese software.
[Japan] Simple and Unique Fighting Arcade "French Toast"
Mamagoto Club* has released French Toast*. French Toast is a unique fighting arcade game with simple rule where player controls a funny creature to fight against the enemy in a compact 3 x 3 grid. It features simple game control by mouse clicks and 3 humorous creatures with different skills. File size is 12 KB*. MacLHA* is needed to extract the archive. Requires QuickTime 3.0 or later for sounds. Freeware. Japanese software.
[Japan] 2D Puzzle Arcade "Mikan Bee"
Keiji Higaki* has released Mikan Bee*. Mikan Bee is a 2D arcade game where player controls a bee to carry oranges to the goals while avoiding electric blocks. It features unique control and tricky levels that requires the combination of skillful action and puzzle-like thinking. File size is 84 KB*. Requires display 640 x 480 or better. Freeware but users must send a mail to the author (mailware).
[World] Game Updates (World-Wide)
-- Ashcan 1.8.7 (Jerry Fritschle): Submarine destroying game where player must guess the depth and timing to drop ashcans. Version 1.8.7 improves program speed and adds speed control option. File size is 757 KB (more info). Freeware.
Followup: As of October 1, Ashcan has been updated to 1.8.8.

-- USB Overdrive 1.2 (Alessandro Levi Montalcini): Generic USB input device driver. 1.2 adds mouse emulation by joystick and improves scrolling support. File size is 295 KB. Shareware $20.
[Japan] Game Updates (Japanese)
-- Shiritori Mac-kun 1.1.3* (HAZUME*): Japanese verse-capping game played against self-learning routine. Version 1.1.3 improves the game performance. File size of PPC version is 356 KB*, 68K version is 261 KB*. Freeware. Japanese software.

-- Little Human mini 1.2* (Takeshi Sakai*): Simple role playing game where player takes a role of a cat and make a living with a girl. Version 1.2 improves the program performance. File size is 823 KB*. Freeware. Japanese software.
9/21/99 (Tue)
[USA] Simple 2D Arcade Game "Extreme Prejudice"
Epic Banana Software has released Extreme Prejudice. Developed by Ryan Foltz, Extreme Prejudice is a 2D shoot-'em-up arcade game where player explores the evil institute while shooting enemies. Although it is simple and not so well-designed, it features smooth action and tricky stages. File size is 617 KB. Freeware.
[World] Game Updates (World-Wide)
-- ChessWorks 2.0.4 (Ekim Software): Chess program only for head-to-head net play. Version 2.0.4 fixes bugs with the tracker. This version is needed to play with the newest version of the tracker server. Size of the full version is 681 KB, updater from version 2.0.3 is 77 KB (more info). Freeware.

-- GridZone 2.2 (43south Productions): Tic-Tac-Toe game supporting plug-ins. Version 2.2 fixes the graphics error and improves the interface. Full version size is 405 KB, updater from version 2.0.1 is 129 KB, updater from 1.0 is 130 KB. Freeware but registration is required.
9/20/99 (Mon)
[USA] Lucas Learning Released "Star Wars: Pit Droids", Demo Version also Available
Lucas Learning has released Star Wars: Pit Droids. Star Wars: Pit Droids is a unique puzzle game set in the world of Star Wars Episode I where player, like Lemmings, conducts a group of mindless pit droids to the goals using arrow panels. The game consists of as many as 300 stages with elaborated puzzles and various tricky items. Requires PowerPC 603e/200 MHz, 604/132 MHz or better, Mac OS 7.6 or later, RAM 32 MB or larger, free HD 200 MB or larger (300 MB or larger recommended), display 640 x 480 or better, CD-ROM 4x or faster, QuickTime 4.0.2 or later. Available as hybrid CD-ROM at retail stores in USA or directly for $29.95. Also, the demo version is available with file size 15.6 MB (more info).
[World] Game Updates (World-Wide)
-- Triple-A 1.6 (Dog Star Development): 2D anti-air artillery arcade game where player shoots enemy paratroopers. Version 1.6 supports InputSprocket and SoundSprocket, allows users to modify the physics settings, and fixes several bugs. File size is 2.0 MB. Shareware $15.

-- David's Backgammon 2.9.1 (David Byrum): Backgammon game with many features. Version 2.9.1 fixes compatibility problem on some machines. File size is 299 KB. Shareware $20.

-- ChessWorks 2.0.1 (Ekim Software): Chess program only for head-to-head net play. Version 2.0 features new board and piece sets, the improved tracker, and other improvements/fixes. Version 2.0.1 fixes a minor bug with the tracker. Size of the full version is 680 KB, updater from version 2.0 is 69 KB (more info). Freeware.
Followup: As of September 21, ChessWorks has been updated to 2.0.4.
[Japan] Game Updates (Japanese)
-- Daruma 2.0* (Kiyoshi Takeuchi*): Puzzle game where player must find out upright dolls and remove them. File size is 943 KB* (more info*). Freeware.
9/17/99 (Fri)
[Japan] Train Simulator: Kintetsu Minami Osaka-sen, Yoshino-sen Released
Ongakukan* and PONYCANYON* has released Train Simulator: Kintetsu Minami Osaka-sen, Yoshino-sen*. Train Simulator* is the most popular train driving simulator series using QuickTime movies where player can drive a real-world's train of various locations. With the latest installment, the player drives a express trains of Kintetsu in Osaka and Nara. It features very realistic simulation of the train, various game mode dedicated for both beginners and experts. Also, the latest installment adds the gauge system that allows players to stop exactly at the platform. Requires 68LCO40/33 MHz or better (PowerPC recommended, Quadra 840AV, 660AV not supported), Japanese System 7.1 or later, RAM 16 MB or larger, free memory 8 MB or larger, free HD 16 MB or larger, 640 x 480/32,000 colors or better, CD-ROM 2x or faster (4x or faster recommended), QuickTime 2.0 or later (QuickTime 4 recommended, QuickTime 3 not supported). Available at retail stores in Japan or directly* for ¥5,800. Japanese software.
[Japan] Networkable Mah Jong Game "AI Mah Jong 2000"
i4* has released AI Mah Jong 2000*. AI Mah Jong 2000 is an enhanced version of AI Mah Jong, a popular full-featured Mah Jong game. The new version features a variety of strong computer AIs with different strategy and philosophy, various official tournament rules, and in-game help for beginners. Also, now supports 680 x 480 display. Requires PowerPC (iMac compatible), Japanese Mac OS 7.5.5 or later (Mac OS 8.6 compatible), free memory 16 MB or larger (32 MB or larger recommended), free HD 15 MB or larger, 680 x 480/256 colors or better. Includes a license-free client version that allows 4-player network play with one package. Available at retail stores in Japan. Upgrade is available for registered users of AI Mah Jong. Japanese software.
[World] Game Updates (World-Wide)
-- Clan Lord v94 (Delta Tao Software): Online fantasy role playing game. Full version size is 20.0 MB, updater for CD-ROM users is 2.7 MB, updater from v92 is 486 KB (more info).
9/16/99 (Thu)
[World] Game Updates (World-Wide)
-- David's Backgammon 2.9 (David Byrum): Backgammon game with many features. Version 2.9 improves the computer AI and fixes several bugs. File size is 299 KB. Shareware $20.
Followup: As of September 20, David's Backgammon has been updated to 2.9.1.
9/14/99 (Tue)
[USA] Logicware Posted Quake II Mission Pack Libraries, Allows to Install Ground Zero and The Reckoning
Logicware has posted Quake II Mission Pack Libraries. It is an unsupported libraries that allows Mac Quake II users to install Mission Packs for PC including libraries for well-known Ground Zero and The Reckoning. File size is 486 KB. Also, GameDLL Source Code for developers is posted with file size 344 KB. (Source: MacGaming.com, MGL)
[World] Game Updates (World-Wide)
-- GameMaker 2.8.4 (Al Staffieri Jr.): Card-based graphic adventure creation tool. Version 2.8.4 improves and fixes script commands. Updater file size is 329 KB (more info). Also, GameMaker Lite, a trial version, has been updated to version 1.2.1 with file size 165 KB.
9/13/99 (Mon)
[USA] 2-Player 2D Shooting Arcade "Commando Combat Arena"
Chris Worden* has released Commando Combat Arena. Commando Combat Arena is a simple head-to-head-style 2D shooting arcade game for 2 players where each player controls the character to move around in a maze-like stage and shoot enemy. It features many levels with a lot of tricks and items, and a variety of game modes such as Death Match, Chino Dolls, King of the Hill. Also, 1-player mode with a computer player is available. File size is 418 KB. Requires System 7.5 or later, free memory 5 MB or larger, 640 x 480/256 colors or better, QuickTime 2.0 or later. Freeware.
[USA] American Civil War Soldier Preorder Started
...by Design started taking preorder of American Civil War Soldier. It is a turn-based tactical war simulation game set in the American Civil War. It features a lot of animations and sounds, sophisticated user interface that allows easily control individual soldiers or groups, and many fictional and historical mission as well as campaign for both Unions and Confederate. Requires 68030 or better, System 7.0 or later, free memory 10 MB or larger, free HD 50 MB or larger, display 512 x 384 or better, color monitor. Preorder is available for $44.95. Expected on September 17. (Source: MacGaming.com)
[Japan] Fantasy Card Battle Game "Sho!Kan!Ju!"
RIEN* has released Sho!Kan!Ju!*. Sho!Kan!Ju! is a fantasy card battle-type board game where player summons monsters by arranging cards of monster parts. It features 10 monsters created by various arrangement, strategic game play, and story-based levels. File size is 1,002 KB*. Requires 68LC040 or better (PowerPC recommended), Japanese System 7.1 or later. Freeware. Japanese software.
[Japan] Interactive Detective Novel, Tantei Suiri Adventure "Shumatsuno Jikenbo" Dai 1-wa
Usyagi* has released Tantei Suiri Adventure "Shumatsuno Jikenbo" Dai 1-wa*. It is the first episode of an interactive detective novel series with a story where a poor detective and a cheerful young girl solve a murder case. Although it is not a game with full interaction, it features a humorous story, well-designed characters, and comfortable BGM. File size is 1.8 MB*. Freeware. Japanese software.
[Japan] Humorous Whack-a-Mole-type Arcade "Chakapoko Daitsuiseki"
Kei Matsumoto* has released Chakapoko Daitsuiseki*. It is a Whack-a-Mole-type arcade game where player whacks the trio of humorous thieves while avoiding bombs. The game consists of 20 levels ranges from easy level with only 3 holes to expert level with 50 holes. It features the tricky game play, challenging score system based on accuracy and time to finish, and lively graphics and music. File size is 2.6 MB*. Requires PowerPC, Japanese System 7.5 or later, free memory 8 MB or larger. Shareware* ¥900. Japanese software.
[World] Game Updates (World-Wide)
-- Master of Orion II: Battle at Antares 1.6 (MacSoft): Networkable space conquest strategy game. Version 1.6 features GameRanger support and many bug fixes. File size for PowerPC is 1,006 KB, 68K is 1,001 KB (more info). Also download fixed movie file (3.5 MB) if it is the first time to update.
[Japan] Game Updates (Japanese)
-- Kinjito 1.0.1* (Kiyoshi Takeuchi*): Simple puzzle game where player piles colored blocks in the shape of pyramid. Version 1.0.1 changes shapes of the blocks. File size is 660 KB* (more info*). Freeware.

-- Chika Meikyu 1.2* (Ikunori*): Simple dungeon role playing game stack. Version 1.2 allows to capture monsters. File size is 171 KB*. MacLHA* is needed to extract the archive. Freeware.

-- Uragaeshi Game: 0.1.2* (Makoto Kawano*): Tile-flipping puzzle game where player flips groups of tiles to turn all tiles to blue. File size is 307 KB*. Maybe freeware.
9/10/99 (Fri)
[Japan] Train Simulator "Tetsudo Unten Simulation: Tokyu Toyoko/Mekama"
Shogakukan Production* has released "Tetsudo Unten Simulation: Tokyu Toyoko/Mekama*". It is the latest installment of another train simulator series for Macintosh where player drives trains in Tokyo. Requires PowerPC, Japanese System 7.1 or later, RAM 32 MB or larger, HD 20 MB or larger, 640 x 480/256 colors or better, CD-ROM 4x or faster, QuickTime 2.1.1 or later. Available as hybrid CD-ROM at retail stores in Japan. Japanese software.
[Japan] StarCraft: Brood War Released in Japan
SOURCENEXT* has released StarCraft: Brood War with Japanese Manual*. Developed by Blizzard Entertainment, Brood War is an expansion set for StarCraft*, a popular realtime sci-fi space strategy game. It includes three new campaigns that is the sequel to original scenarios, a variety of new weapons, 100 new multiplayer maps, and new cut scenes and music tracks. Requires PowerPC, Mac OS 7.6 or later (8.6 supported), RAM 16 MB or larger (32 MB or larger is recommended and required for net play), free memory 28 MB or larger, free HD 40 MB or larger, 640 x 480/256 colors or better, CD-ROM (4x or faster for movies), DrawSprocket 1.1.4 or later, retail version of StarCraft. Available at retail stores in USA.
[World] Game Updates (World-Wide)
-- Clan Lord v92.2 (Delta Tao Software): Online fantasy role playing game. Version v92.2 fixes bugs of the black window and the incorrect place to save files. Size of the updater from v92 is 343 KB, v92 is needed to update (more info).
Followup: As of September 17, Clan Lord has been updated to v94.

-- Cythera 1.0.2 (Ambrosia Software): 2D fantasy role playing game featuring sophisticated interface and complex scenario. Version 1.0.2 features on-the-fly resolution switching support, improved AIs, and many bug fixes such as those with 68K support and damage controls. File size is 6.8 MB (more info). Shareware $25

-- Stratega 1.0b5 (Matthew Hershberger): Simple networkable military board game like Stratego. File size of PowerPC version is 959 KB, 68K version is 946 KB. Public beta version.
9/9/99 (Thu)
[World] Game Updates (World-Wide)
-- Ashcan 1.8.5 (Jerry Fritschle): Submarine destroying game where player must guess the depth and timing to drop ashcans. Version 1.8.5 features new real time-based game play and the rewritten program. File size is 687 KB (more info). Freeware.

-- MacPuyo 1.2 (Liquid Metal Software): Puzzle arcade game like Japanese popular game "Puyo Puyo". Version 1.2 features bug fixes and improvements. File size is 1.8 MB (more info). Shareware $15.

-- Right! 4.1 (Ton's Software): Word game feels like a combination of MasterMind and Bingo. File size is 1.2 MB. Shareware $10
[Japan] Game Updates (Japanese)
-- Ace 1.0.3 (Candy House): Card game collection including 22 solitaire games and 38 games played against computer. Version 1.0.3 adds 10 new 4-player games and fixes a lockup bug. Shareware ¥2,000. Japanese software.

-- MacPuyo Japanese Version 1.2* (Liquid Metal Software): Puzzle arcade game like Japanese popular game "Puyo Puyo". File size is 1.8 MB* (more info*). Shareware* $15.
[Japan] New Entertainment Titles Announced at World PC Expo
World PC Expo 99, Japanese largest computer trade show, is held in Makuhari Messe through September 11, and some exhibitors show game-related products:

-- psd* (1058 Prime System Development): Sanzennen Shokudo*, a historical restaurant simulation where player manages restaurant in various period of Japanese history. Expected in December.

-- PONYCANYON* (1100 PC GAME WORLD): Train Simulator: Kintetsu Minami Osaka-sen, Yoshino-sen*, the latest installment of the realistic train simulator series. Expected on September 17. Master Controller II for Train Simulator*. Expected on October 20.

-- OPeNBooK 9003* (5331 Apple Consumer Showcase): Towerkit CD: Naniwa Biruo Densutsu*, the newest add-on scenario for The Tower II. Available now.

-- Focal Point Computer* (5331 Apple Consumer Showcase): ProCyber 3D, a 3D scope for ProFormance 3 video card. Expected in late-September or December.

-- Electronic Arts Square* (5331 Apple Consumer Showcase): SimCity 3000 Japanese Version*, the newest version of the well known city simulation game. Expected on October 1.

-- Eidos Interactive, Japan* (5331 Apple Consumer Showcase): Tomb Raider III*, the latest installment of popular 3D exploration action game. Japanese version expected in December.

-- P. & A.* (5331 Apple Consumer Showcase): Fly!*, a general aviation simulator focused on light aircrafts. Japanese version expected in late-September or December.

-- macally (6155 Denno): ishock, a USB game controller like PlayStation. Expected at the end of September.
9/7/99 (Tue)
[Japan] Puzzle-like 2D Tank Battle Game "BadOil"
Morisuke* has released BadOil*. BadOil is a simple turn-based 2D tank battle game where player escapes from maze while avoiding attacks of sensor guns. It features the unique puzzle-like game play. File size is 691 KB*. Voluntary shareware (called "StreetWare").
[Japan] Crossword-like Puzzle Game "iMacXCOL"
Morisuke* has released iMacXCOL*. iMacXCOL (pronounced "iMac Cross Color") is a crossword-like puzzle game using color tiles where player places sequences of colors on the grids. File size is 617 KB*. Voluntary shareware (called "StreetWare"). (Source: iMacWIRE Express*)
[World] Game Updates (World-Wide)
-- Brickoids Millenium 1.1 (Soth Development): Simple Breakout-style arcade game (previous name: Brickoids Deluxe). Version 1.1 redesignes graphics. File size is 605 KB. Freeware.

-- Crossword Express 3.6 (AUS-PC-SOFT): Crossword puzzle making tool. Full version file size is 872 KB, updater is 229 KB (more info). Shareware $35. Also, Crossword Express Player has been updated to version 1.3 with file size 161 KB.

-- Stratega 1.0b4 (Matthew Hershberger): Simple networkable military board game like Stratego. File size of PowerPC version is 958 KB, 68K version is 945 KB. Public beta version.
Followup: As of September 10, Stratega has been updated to 1.0b5.
9/6/99 (Mon)
[Japan] Unique Role Playing Simulation Game "Torishirabeshitsu Simulator"
Masaru's MatchBox* has released Torishirabeshitsu Simulator*. It is a unique role playing simulation game set in interrogation room of the police where player, as a police detective, investigates a suspected bomb criminal to get a confession about the time bomb. It features game scenes dynamically changing by the progression and the mental state and 3D pre-rendered graphics with full expression. File size is 5.5 MB*. Requires PowerPC. Freeware.
[Japan] Object-dropping Puzzle Arcade "KZ Ordinary Puzzle"
KZ* has released KZ Ordinary Puzzle*. KZ Ordinary Puzzle is a object-dropping puzzle arcade game where player drops groups of 3 balls to arrange same balls in a line. It features the simple game play and beautifully designed balls. File size is 192 KB*. Freeware. Japanese software but most menu items and messages are in English.
[Japan] Adventure Game Stack "BIOHAZARD4"
Ikeda Production* has released BIOHAZARD4*. BIOHAZARD4 is a simple adventure game stack where player explores an institute to solves mystery of mass disappearance. Although it has low quality graphics, it features a good scenario with suspense and unique battle scenes. File size is 1.2 MB*. MacLHA* is needed to extract the archive. Requires HyperCard. Freeware. Japanese software.
[World] Game Updates (World-Wide)
-- ChessWorks 1.9.3 (Ekim Software): Chess program only for head-to-head net play. Size of the full version is 691 KB, updater from version 1.9.2 is 161 KB (more info). Freeware.

-- HoverDuel 2.5 (Iguana Software): Simple hovercraft battle arcade game for two players. Version 2.5 adds key configuration option. File size is 170 KB. Freeware.
[Japan] Game Updates (Japanese)
-- Haetataki PPC Version* (Hiroshi Akuzawa*): Simple arcade game like Whack-a-Mole where player smashes flies. The PPC Version is a PowerPC native version. File size is 24 KB*. Freeware. Also, 68K Version* is available with file size 38 KB*. Japanese software.
9/3/99 (Fri)
[Japan] The Tower II Add-on "Naniwa Biruo Densutsu" Released
OPeNBooK 9003* has released "Towerkit CD: Naniwa Biruo Densutsu*". It is an add-on kit for The Tower II*, the original Japanese version of Yoot Tower, where player constructs unique buildings around Tsutenkaku Tower in Osaka and manages Yoshimoto Kogyo, the Japanese most popular show business company known for many famous comedy groups. It features humorous tenant items and a variety of exiting events. Requires Japanese version of The Tower II, additional free HD 65 MB or larger. Available as hybrid CD-ROM at retail stores in Japan. Also, The Tower II: Special Naniwa Pack, that bundles The Tower II and Naniwa Biruo Densutsu, is available.
[World] LittleWing Released Angel Egg English Version
LittleWing, well-known for popular pinball games Crystal Caliburn and Loony Labyrinth, has released Angel Egg English Version as an Internet Edition (shareware). Angel Egg, whose Japanese version has already been released in 1996, is a pinball arcade game based on a unique story of seven Arc Angels. It features the easily-launched up to 6 balls exiting multiball, frequent jackpots, the colorful semi-3D view table, and a variation of rules and specials. The size of full version/demo file is 14.2 MB (more info). 68LC040 or better, System 7.5 or later, free memory 8 MB or larger, 640 x 480/256 colors or better (32,000 colors or better recommended). Registration code is available directly for ¥2,000 (+¥600 for CD-ROM). Also, Angel Egg + Golden Logres Bundle is available for ¥4,000.
[World] Game Updates (World-Wide)
-- 8-Ball Emulator 9.1 (Scott Knudsen): Simple 2D pool game. Version 9.1 improves the settings and fixes bugs. File size is 252 KB. Shareware $15

-- Clan Lord v92 (Delta Tao Software): Online fantasy role playing game. Full version size is 19.8 MB, updater for CD-ROM users is 2.6 MB, updater from v90 is 645 KB (more info).
Followup: As of September 10, Clan Lord has been updated to v92.2.
9/2/99 (Thu)
[World] Game Updates (World-Wide)
-- Sphaera 1.0.1 (Shawn Henry): Arkanoid-type Breakout arcade game featuring fast-paced game play. Version 1.0.1 fixes bugs related to screen redrawing, adds Allow Events option to avoid pausing during game, and improves the game performance. Updater size is 73 KB (more info). Freeware.
9/1/99 (Wed)
[World] Game Updates (World-Wide)
-- Cythera 1.0.1 (Ambrosia Software): 2D fantasy role playing game featuring sophisticated interface and complex scenario. Version 1.0.1 fixes many bug such as slow down due to frequent HD access. File size is 6.7 MB (more info). Shareware $25
Followup: As of September 10, Cythera has been updated to 1.0.2.
[Japan] Upcoming Japanese Games
-- AI Mah Jong 2000* (i4*): Latest version of networkable Mah Jong game with strong and natural computer routine. Expected on September 17.

-- SimCity 3000 Japanese Version* (Electronic Arts Square*): Newest installment of SimCity, the well known city simulation game. Expected in October.

-- Star Trek: OMNIPEDIA Japanese Version* (DataHouse Beagle*): Multimedia encycropedia of Star Trek covering TV series and movies. Expected on September 25.

-- StarCraft: Brood War with Japanese Manual* (SOURCENEXT*): Expansion set for StarCraft, a popular realtime sci-fi space strategy game. Expected on September 10.

-- Train Simulator: Kintetsu Minami Osaka-sen, Yoshino-sen* (Ongakukan*): 16th installment of the realistic train simulator series. Expected on September 17. Preorder* is available for ¥5,800.

-- Towerkit CD "Naniwa Biruo Densutsu": Waiga Naniwano Biruoya* (OPeNBooK 9003*): Add-on scenario for The Tower II (Japanese version of Yoot Tower) where player constructs unique buildings in Osaka. Expected on September 3.

-- Nobunaga-no Yabo Reppuden (Koei*): Latest installment of popular strategy simulation game of Japanese Civil War where player as Nobunaga Oda manages his territory to conquer the whole Japan. Expected on 9/24

Also, Japanese version of Fly!* is expected to be released from P. & A.* in this fall. SME Intermedia* and Inner Brain* plan to release new ¥500 game titles in late-September.

Copyright 1999 Asahi Technoservice, Inc.; Macintosh Game Joho. All rights reserved.
Hiroshi Kuwabara, Director and Chief Editor
2-10-5-102 Saiwai-cho, Mihama-ku
Chiba-shi, 261-0001 JAPAN