Macintosh Game News (Past News)

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 Some of versions and links in this page may be outdated.

News of October, 1999

10/30/99 (Sat)

Game Demos

-- Unreal Tournament (MacSoft): Net play-oriented powerful 3D first person shooting game. Demo size is 50.7 MB (more info). (Source: 3dfx Interactive)
Followup: As of November 11, Unreal Tournament demo has been updated to version 348m2.

10/29/99 (Fri)

Announcement: Latest MacWIRE Online Gaming Column

MacWIRE Online* posted the newest issue of our gaming column. Japanese only.

Contents of October 30 issue* (Titles with * indicate Japanese softwares):
-- Mini Reviews: Classic Cribbage, Flip!, PerTetride
-- Other newest gaming informations

Game Demos

-- Combat Mission: Beyond Overlord (Battlefront.com): Beta version demo of the Squad Leader-type WWII realistic turn-based tactical war simulation game featuring full 3D view. File size is 14.4 MB (more info). Preorder of retail version is available for $45.

Game Updates (World-Wide)

-- ChessWorks 2.0.7 (Ekim Software): Chess program only for head-to-head net play. Version 2.0.7 adds user access log feature. Size of the full version is 687 KB, updater from version 2.0.6 is 88 KB (more info). Freeware.

-- Clan Lord v100.1 (Delta Tao Software): Online fantasy role playing game. Version v100.1 fixes a bug that the application unnecessarily requires Appearance Manager. Updater from v100 is 374 KB (more info).

-- Crossword Express 3.6c (AUS-PC-SOFT): Crossword puzzle making tool. Full version file size is 872 KB, updater is 229 KB (more info). Shareware $35.

-- David's Backgammon 2.9.3 (David Byrum): Backgammon game with many features. Version 2.9.3 fixes the game wait during speech, improves the piece movement, adds new board colors, and fixes some other bugs. File size is 300 KB. Shareware $20.

10/28/99 (Thu)

Online Card Game "Classic Cribbage" Released

Freeverse Software has finally released Classic Cribbage. Classic Cribbage is an online Cribbage card game where player connect to the HMS Freeverse online game server to play against other players worldwide. File size is 3.2 MB. Requires Mac OS 8.1 or later, free memory 8 MB or larger, NetSprocket 1.7.1 included. Shareware $19.95.

Game Updates (World-Wide)

-- Clan Lord v100 (Delta Tao Software): Online fantasy role playing game. Full version size is 21.1 MB, updater for CD-ROM users is 4.0 MB, updater from v97 is 830 KB (more info).
Followup: As of October 29, Clan Lord has been updated to v100.1.

10/27/99 (Wed)

Tile Flipping Puzzle Game "Flip!"

Beyond Midnight Software has released Flip!. Flip! is a Tile flipping puzzle game where player flips a group of tiles to make a grid into a designated pattern. The game contains 30 puzzles of 3 x 3, 5 x 5, and 7 x 7 grid, that are dedicated both for beginners playing with the luck and for experts playing with the strategy. File size is 289 KB. Requires System 7.0 or later, 16 colors or better. Shareware $10. (Source: MGL, Download.com)

Game Updates (World-Wide)

-- Deathground 1.1 (Freeverse Software): RISK-type mobster strategy board game. Version 1.1 features faster zooming/scrolling, improved Godfather AI, and many other improvements/bug fixes. Updater size is 850 KB (more info).
Followup: As of November 4, Deathground has been updated to version 1.2.

-- Romi 2.0 (Gerard Brochu): Rummy card game played against computer players. Version 2.0 adds larger game window for display 800 x 600. File size is 305 KB. Shareware $10.

10/26/99 (Tue)

Game Updates (World-Wide)

-- Klondike 7.5 (Michael A. Casteel): Famous classic solitaire card game collection including 4 games. Version 7.5 fixes minor bugs and adds Carbon API version KlondikeX. File size is 185 KB, KlondikeX is 138 KB (Mac OS 9 or later required). Shareware $10.

-- Meat Gone Bad II 1.0.7 (Purple Hippo Software): Unique invader arcade game where player fights against meat threat. File size is 654 KB. Shareware $8 (new lower price).

-- Total Annihilation Gold Edition 3.1.1 (MacSoft): Full featured sci-fi real time strategy simulation game. Version 3.1.1 fixes the disc-swapping bug on Mac OS 9. Non-Mac OS 9 users don't need to update. Updater size is 780 KB (more info).

Classic Cribbage Final Candidate Posted

Freeverse Software posted the final candidate of Classic Cribbage 1.0fc2. Classic Cribbage is an online Cribbage card game where player connect to the HMS Freeverse online game server to play against other players worldwide. It also features in-game chat, face marks, and computer bots to play offline. File size is 3.2 MB. Requires Mac OS 8.1 or later, free memory 8 MB or larger, NetSprocket 1.7.1 included. Shareware $19.95. The official release is coming soon. (Source: MacGaming.com, IMG)
Followup: As of October 28, the official version of Classic Cribbage has been released.

Game Demos

-- Deathground 1.1 (Freeverse Software): New demo version of the RISK-type mobster strategy board game. Version 1.1 features faster zooming/scrolling, improved Godfather AI, and many other improvements/bug fixes. Demo size is 12.7 MB. No information about the update of the retail version has been given yet.
Followup: As of October 27, also the retail version of Deathground has been updated to version 1.1.

10/25/99 (Mon)

Tetris Puzzle Arcade Game "PerTetride"

Adam Iser has released PerTetride. PerTetride is a Tetris puzzle arcade game featuring smooth motion of falling pieces, high quality graphics with particle effects, up-to-3-player simultaneous play, flexible control settings with InputSprocket, and the game speed setting. Also, it features a unique selector bar mechanism to select the piece coming after next one by sliding a bar at the top of the screen, which allows players more strategic game play. File size is 1.7 MB. Requires PowerPC, free memory 6 MB or larger, 640 x 480/32,000 colors or better, GameSprockets. Freeware. (Source: Version Tracker)

10/23/99 (Sat)

Announcement: Latest MacWIRE Online Gaming Column

MacWIRE Online* posted the newest issue of our gaming column. Japanese only.

Contents of October 23 issue* (Titles with * indicate Japanese softwares):
-- Mini Reviews: Sakerai*, Total Annihilation Gold Edition
-- Commentary: New InputSprocket
-- Other newest gaming informations

Game Demos

-- Tomb Raider III (Aspyr Media): Latest installment of popular 3D exploration action game featuring improved action and more beautiful graphics. Demo size is 19.0 MB . Full retail version is available at retail stores in USA or directly for $49.95.

Game Updates (World-Wide)

-- Nanosaur 1.1.7 (Pangea Software): 3D dinosaur shooting action game. Full version size is 17.2 MB, updater is 728 KB (more info). Also, 2MB VRAM Version is updated with file size 725 KB. Charityware $30.

Game Updates (Japanese)

-- BIOHAZARD4 1.02* (Ikeda Production*): Adventure game stack with simple graphics where player explores an institute to solves mystery. File size is 1.2 MB*. Freeware. MacLHA* is needed to extract the archive. Japanese software.

-- Mikan Bee 1.2.3* (Keiji Higaki*): 2D puzzle-type arcade game where player controls a bee to carry oranges. Version 1.2.3 changes the behavior of Quit command in the game. File size is 103 KB*. MacLHA* is needed to extract the archive. Freeware but users must send a mail to the author (mailware). Japanese software.

-- Ajisai 2.0.1* (Kiyoshi Takeuchi*): Puzzle game to solve by rotating pieces. Version 2.0.1 internally changes the drawing routine. File size is 643 KB* (more info*). Freeware. Japanese software.

-- Zettai Onkan? 1.1* (M-WAY'S*): Auditory training game where player distinguishes notes. Version 1.1 features overall improvements such as color screen, 5-octave keys, and new instrument sounds. File size is 780 KB*. MacLHA* is needed to extract the archive. Shareware* ¥500. Japanese software.

-- Daruma 2.0.1* (Kiyoshi Takeuchi*): Puzzle game where player must find out upright dolls and remove them. Version 2.0.1 internally changes the drawing routine. File size is 944 KB* (more info*). Freeware. Japanese software.

-- Nankin-Mushi 2.0.3* (Kiyoshi Takeuchi*): Puzzle game resembles MineSweeper where player finds out bugs. Version 2.0.3 internally changes the drawing routine. File size is 832 KB* (more info*). Freeware. Japanese software.

10/22/99 (Fri)

Game Updates (World-Wide)

-- Avara 1.0.1 (Ambrosia Software): 3D tank battle shooting game for netplay featuring quick and light game play. Version 1.0.1 fixes loading problem on Mac OS 9 and improved the performance on PowerPC. File size is 1.6 MB (more info). Shareware $20.

-- Civilization II Multiplayer Gold Edition 1.1b3 (MacSoft): Multiplayer version of Civilization II bundled with add-on scenarios. Version 1.1b3 fixes many bugs. Updater size is 1.3 MB (more info). Beta updater.

10/21/99 (Thu)

Game Updates (World-Wide)

-- Ares 1.1.1 (Ambrosia Software): Mission-oriented epic sci-fi space strategy and 2D shooting game. Version 1.1.1 fixes many bugs related to game control, networking, and others. File size is 10.1 MB (more info). Shareware $25.

Game Updates (Japanese)

-- Mikan Bee 1.2.2* (Keiji Higaki*): 2D puzzle-type arcade game where player controls a bee to carry oranges. Version 1.2.2 fixes a bug with character redrawing. File size is 103 KB*. MacLHA* is needed to extract the archive. Freeware but users must send a mail to the author (mailware). Japanese software.
Followup: As of October 23, Mikan Bee has been updated to version 1.2.3.

10/20/99 (Wed)

Warcraft II Battle.net Edition Released

Blizzard Entertainment has released Warcraft II Battle.net Edition. Warcraft II Battle.net Edition (formerly "Warcraft II Platinum") is a enhanced version of the popular real time strategy game WarCraft II: Tides of Darkness and its expansion kit Warcraft II: Beyond the Dark Portal that supports Battle.net, the official online game service. It supports many new features such as automatic map passing, as well as contains over 100 Blizzard approved multi play maps and spawning technology to install free net-only version. Requires PowerPC, Mac OS 7.6 or better, RAM 16 MB or larger, free memory 11 MB or larger, free HD 80 MB or larger, 640 x 480/256 colors or better, CD-ROM 2x or faster (4x or faster for movies). Available as hybrid CD-ROM at retail stores in USA.

Tomb Raider III Released

Aspyr Media released Tomb Raider III. Tomb Raider III (developer: Core Design, PC version publisher: Eidos Interactive, porting: Westlake Interactive) is the latest installment of popular 3D exploration action game series where Lara Croft explores various places in the Pacific and the Antarctic to find out the secrets of an ancient meteor. It features a new OpenGL-based 3D engine with accurate modeling and beautiful effects, as well as new weapons and vehicles, flexible action play, and advanced tactical enemy AIs. Requires PowerPC 603e/150 MHz or better (180 MHz or faster without 3D cards), System 7.5.3 or later, RAM 16 MB or larger (32 MB or larger recommended), CD-ROM 4x or faster, QuickTime 4 included. Available at retail stores in USA or directly for $49.95. The Japanese version* is expected in December from Eidos Interactive, Japan*.

Game Updates (World-Wide)

-- Quake II ref_gl.lib (Logicware): OpenGL rendering library for Quake II. It fixes problem on Ground Zero mission pack. Includes ATI version and MesaQuake2 (3Dfx) version. File size is 183 KB.

-- Voodoo3 Macintosh OS 8.x Beta Drivers 1.0b5 (3dfx Interactive): Generic driver for 3Dfx Voodoo3 graphics cards. Version 1.0b5 supports Voodoo3 3000 and fixes a bug. File size is 427 KB. Public beta version.

Game Updates (Japanese)

-- Mikan Bee 1.2.1* (Keiji Higaki*): 2D puzzle-type arcade game where player controls a bee to carry oranges. Version 1.2.1 adds new levels and fixes bugs. File size is 103 KB*. MacLHA* is needed to extract the archive. Freeware but users must send a mail to the author (mailware). Japanese software.
Followup: As of October 23, Mikan Bee has been updated to version 1.2.3.

-- Kappuzzle 1.2 (Tamanegi Hakase*): Simple slide puzzle game. File size is 562 KB. Freeware. Japanese software.

-- Pandash 1.2 (Tamanegi Hakase*): Unique arcade game where player must keep track of a quick panda. File size is 482 KB. Freeware. Japanese software.

10/19/99 (Tue)

Game Demos

-- Total Annihilation (MacSoft): High-featured sci-fi real time strategy simulation game. Demo size is 25.2 MB (more info). Full retail version is available at retail stores in USA or directly for $39.99. (Source: IMG)

MacSoft Released Mac Strategy Pack

MacSoft has released Mac Strategy Pack. Mac Strategy Pack is a bundle pack of MacSoft's 4 strategy games including Star Control 3, Civilization II, Deadlock, Master of Orion II. Available at retail stores in USA or directly (only for USA or Canada) for $29.99. (Source: MGL)

Game Updates (World-Wide)

-- GameRanger 1.0b10 (Scott Kevill): Client software for the chat and server tracking service for net games. Version 1.0b10 features sorting and filtering of the player/game list, as well as other improvements and fixes. File size is 570 KB (more info). Public beta version.

10/18/99 (Mon)

Simple Sumo Wrestling Simulation Game "Sumo Hoppers"

Tuukka Ilomaki has released Sumo Hoppers. Sumo Hoppers is a simple 2-player sumo wrestling simulation game using wire frame characters which is a Macintosh port of Hyppyheikkien Sumopaini by Tuomas Korppi. The operation is very unique where player controls the angle/length of the legs of a sumo wrestler and take down the enemy. File size is 568 KB. Requires PowerPC, display 800 x 600 or better, Appearance Manager. Maybe freeware. (Source: Version Tracker)

Railroad Tycoon II: Second Century Released as a Separate Package

Gathering of Developers has released Railroad Tycoon II: Second Century. Developed by Poptop Software, Railroad Tycoon II: Second Century is an expansion kit for the new railroad management simulation game which is a separate package from already-released Railroad Tycoon II Gold Edition. It contains 18 new scenarios with unique themes such as railroads in World War II, modern transportation problems such as suboceanic Channel system, and near-future worldwide flooding. Also included are new trains, new maps, and over 20 stand alone scenarios including those for multi play. Available at retail stores in USA or directly for $19.95. (Source: IMG)

Hoyle Word Games Released

Sierra Attractions has released Hoyle Word Games. Hoyle Word Games is a collection of 8 traditional and brand-new word games including Anagrams, Crosswords, DoubleCross, Enigma, Hangman, Speedy Racer, Word Searches, Word Yacht, which is played by single player, multiple players on a machine, or against unique computer characters. It features printing of the games, hints, statistics, and electronic dictionary. But the Mac version doesn't support net play. Requires PowerPC (G3 or better recommended, iMac supported), System 7.5.3 or later (Mac OS 8.1 or later recommended), free memory 16 MB or larger (32 MB or larger recommended), 640 x 480/256 colors or better (millions of colors recommended), CD-ROM 2x or faster (4x or faster recommended). Available as hybrid CD-ROM at retail stores in USA or directly for $29.95. (Source: MacGaming.com)

2D Puzzle Arcade Game "Sakerai"

KZ* has released Sakerai*. Sakerai is a 2D character puzzle arcade game where player controls a flying saucer to get planets and go to the exit. It features the combined game play of Sokoban-like elaborated puzzle and skill arcade play, and the unique character animation. File size is 295 KB*. Freeware.

Game Updates (World-Wide)

-- Galactic Patrol 1.4.5 (Monkey Byte Development): Galaxian-style 2D/3D hybrid shooting arcade game. Version 1.4.5 features several bug fixes and improvements. File size is 3.1 MB. Shareware $19.95.

-- VirtualHamster 1.3.2 (HamsterSoft): Simple hamster breeding simulation. File size is 894 KB (more info). Freeware or donation $2.

Game Updates (Japanese)

-- KZ Ordinary Puzzle 1.1* (KZ*): Object-dropping puzzle arcade. Version 1.1 allows players to pause the game and improves score displaying. File size is 203 KB*. Freeware. Japanese software.

-- Department 2.0* (Takeshi Sakai*): Shopping simulation where player visit a department stores and purchase various items. Version 2.0 changes the playable character and improves the entire program. File size is 1.3 MB*. Freeware. Japanese software.

10/16/99 (Sat)

Announcement: Latest MacWIRE Online Gaming Column

MacWIRE Online* posted the newest issue of our gaming column. Japanese only.

Contents of October 16 issue* (Titles with * indicate Japanese softwares):
-- Mini Reviews: Fly!, Pro Pinball: Big Race USA
-- Other newest gaming informations

10/15/99 (Fri)

King of Dragon Pass Preorder Started

Monkey Byte Development started accepting preorder of upcoming King of Dragon Pass. Developed by A Sharp, King of Dragon Pass is a turn-based fantasy strategy game set in Glorantha known as the base world of RuneQuest. The player, as a leader of a clan, integrates a number of tribes into a kingdom through battles in the magical land Dragon Pass. It also features repayable game play with interactive stories composed of hundreds of unique stories. Requires PowerPC, System 7.5 or later, RAM 24 MB or larger, 640 x 480/32,000 colors or better, CD-ROM 2x or faster. Preorder is available for $37.50. Expected on October 29.

Game Demos

-- Fukkokuban Tenkatoits* (SystemSoft*): Classic strategy simulation game set in old Japanese civil war era. Demo size is 1.9 MB* (more info*). Retail version is available as hybrid CD-ROM at retail stores in Japan. Japanese software.

Game Updates (World-Wide)

-- Nanosaur 1.1.6 (Pangea Software): 3D dinosaur shooting action game. Full version size is 17.9 MB, updater is 728 KB (more info). Also, 2MB VRAM Version is updated with file size 725 KB. Charityware $30.

10/13/99 (Wed)

Star Trek: Starship Creator Add-On Pack Released

Simon & Schuster Interactive has released Star Trek: Starship Creator Add-On Pack. It is, developed by Imergy, an expansion pack for the Star Trek-based starship construction simulation game. It contains seven new missions and 3 new classes such as Oberth, Akira, and Prometheus, as well as updated game engine/AI and 12 new scripting command. The expansion pack also allows users to launch 2 ships simultaneously. Requires PowerPC/80 MHz or faster, System 7.5 or later, free memory 14 MB or larger, free HD 25 MB or larger, 640 x 480/32,000 colors or better, CD-ROM 4x or faster. Available as hybrid CD-ROM at retail stores in USA. Also available is Star Trek: Starship Creator Deluxe, a bundle pack of original Starship Creator and the Add-On Pack.

Deer Avenger 2: Deer In The City Released

Simon & Schuster Interactive has released Deer Avenger 2: Deer In The City. Developed by Hypnotix, Deer Avenger 2: Deer In The City is a sequel to the Deer Hunter-parody hunting simulation game where Bambo, a hero deer who exterminated human hunters in previous story, get in human town and find out a evil hunter to take revenge for his fiancee. Requires PowerPC/90 MHz or faster, System 7.5.3 or later, RAM 16 MB or larger, free HD 50 MB or larger, CD-ROM 4x or faster. Available as hybrid CD-ROM at retail stores in USA.

Game Updates (World-Wide)

-- Deep Sea Classic (Foxchange Shareware): Anti-submarine shooting arcade game (formerly "Deep Sea). File size is 1.6 MB. Shareware $5.

-- Killer Dice 1.5.2 (Gypsy King Software): Poker Dice game. Version 1.5.1 fixes bugs and reduces the program size. File size is 676 KB. Shareware $10. Also, Killer Dice Y2K, a sequel with new fortune messages, has been released with file size 703 KB.

-- Mr. Cat's Quest 3.2 (Foxchange Productions): 2D Ground-digging puzzle arcade game. Version 3.2 features improvements and fixes such as the Swap key response. File size is 1.5 MB. Shareware $10.

-- Pork Barrel 1.3 (Gypsy King Software): Roll and move-style board game where each player takes a role of president. Version 1.3 fixes little bugs. File size is 2.6 MB. Shareware $15.

-- Voodoo3 Macintosh OS 8.x Beta Drivers 1.0b4 (3dfx Interactive): Generic driver for 3Dfx Voodoo3 graphics cards. Version 1.0b4 fixes crashing bugs and improves 2D performance. File size is 406 KB. Public beta version.
Followup: As of October 20, Voodoo3 Macintosh OS 8.x Beta Drivers has been updated to 1.0b5.

10/12/99 (Tue)

Railroad Tycoon II Gold Edition Released

Gathering of Developers has been released Railroad Tycoon II Gold Edition. Developed by Poptop Software, Railroad Tycoon II Gold Edition is a bundle pack of railroad management simulation game and expansion kit including Railroad Tycoon II, an expansion kit Railroad Tycoon II: Second Century, 12 new scenarios, and electronic version of Railroad Tycoon II Strategy Guide. Requires PowerPC/132 MHz or faster, System 7.5.3 or later, RAM 16 MB or larger, free HD 220 MB or larger, display 800�~600 or better, CD-ROM 4x or faster. Available at retail stores in USA or directly for $39.99.

Game Updates (World-Wide)

-- Bugdom 1.0.2 (Pangea Software): 3D insect action arcade game. Version 1.0.2 now supports non-ATI 3D RAVE cards except for 3Dfx. ATI users with version 1.0.1 don't need to update. Updater size is 363 KB (more info). Also, the manual (file size 812 KB) and the demo version (file size 10.0 MB) have been updated.

-- Fly! 1.01.79 (Terminal Reality): General aviation simulator focused on light aircrafts. Version 1.01.79 fixes many bugs. Updater size is 8.0 MB (more info). Beta updater.

-- Realmz 7.0.4 (Fantasoft): Popular 2D top view and 3D maze view epic fantasy role playing game. Full version size is 6.9 MB (more info), updater from version 7.0 is 451 KB (more info). Shareware $20.

-- GameRanger 1.0b9 (Scott Kevill): Client software for the chat and server tracking service for net games. Version 1.0b8 features Bolo support, additional game hosting options for several games, multi user support, and other improvements and fixes. Additionally, version 1.0b9 fixes a problem in the game window. File size is 563 KB (more info). Public beta version.
Followup: As of October 19, GameRanger has been updated to version 1.0b10.

10/10/99 (Sun)

Game Updates (World-Wide)

-- ChessWorks 2.0.6 (Ekim Software): Chess program only for head-to-head net play. Version 2.0.6 fixes fixes some a bug with a tracker chat. Size of the full version is 683 KB, updater from version 2.0.5 is 60 KB (more info). Freeware.

-- Dawn of Aces 2.73r1 (iMagic Entertainment Network): WWI flight simulator for network play. Version 2.73r1 fixes several bugs. File size is 7.9 MB, updater from version 2.73r0 is 1.1 MB (more info). Public beta version.

-- Galactic Patrol 1.4.2 (Monkey Byte Development): Galaxian-style 2D/3D hybrid shooting arcade game. Version 1.4.2 features several bug fixes and improvements. File size is 3.1 MB. Shareware $19.95.

-- Realmz 7.0.3 (Fantasoft): Popular 2D top view and 3D maze view epic fantasy role playing game. Version 7.0.3 fixes screen drawing bugs on the new ATI card. Size of the updater from version 7.0 is 451 KB (more info). Also, some scenario files updated (more info). Shareware $20.
Followup: As of October 12, Realmz has been updated to version 7.0.4.

-- StarCraft 1.0.6 (Blizzard Entertainment): WarCraft-like sci-fi real time strategy game where player fights against aliens. Updater size is 1.2 MB (more info).

-- StarCraft: Brood War 1.0.6b (Blizzard Entertainment): Expansion set for StarCraft, a popular realtime sci-fi space strategy game. Updater size is 799 KB (more info).

-- VirtualHamster 1.3.1 (HamsterSoft): Simple hamster breeding simulation. Version 1.3.1 features overall improvements of the program, the interface, the graphics, and others. File size is 752 KB (more info). Freeware or donation $2.

-- Voodoo3 Macintosh OS 8.x Beta Drivers 1.0b3 (3dfx Interactive): Generic driver for 3Dfx Voodoo3 graphics cards. Version 1.0b3 features 2D acceleration-related improvements and bug fixes. File size is 406 KB. Public beta version.
Followup: As of October 13, Voodoo3 Macintosh OS 8.x Beta Drivers has been updated to 1.0b4.

-- X-Plane 5.11-B (Laminar Research): Full-featured civilian flight simulator with beautiful texture graphics. Demo/Upgrade file size is 41.5 MB, updater from version 5.11 is 1.9 MB (more info).

Game Updates (Japanese)

-- B.A.L.L 1.2* (TAKE-DAY*): Arkanoid-type breakout arcade game featuring powerful multiball play. File size is 486 KB*. Freeware. Japanese software.

-- i-Block 1.2* (TAKE-DAY*): Very small breakout-type arcade game. Version 1.2 adds new stages. File size is 263 KB*. Freeware. Japanese software.

-- Mikan Bee 1.1* (Keiji Higaki*): 2D puzzle-type arcade game where player controls a bee to carry oranges. Version 1.1 adds missiles and changes levels. File size is 99 KB*. Freeware but users must send a mail to the author (mailware). Japanese software.

-- Wings -Tsubasano Kiseki- 1.2* (Kohei Natori*): Sci-fi role playing game stack with elaborated story. Version 1.2 adds key control options, changes maps, and adds some dialogs. File size is 938 KB*. MacLHA* is needed to extract the archive. Freeware. Japanese software.

-- Hamburger Catcher 1.2* (TAKE-DAY*): Simple 2D arcade game where player takes hamburgers with jumping. Version 1.2 changes game difficulty and allows players to start from any stage. File size is 429 KB*. Freeware. Japanese software.

-- Sho!Kan!Ju! 1.2* (RIEN*): Fantasy card battle game where player summons monsters by arranging cards in the grid. Version 1.2 improves the computer AI and allows to continue the game by password. File size is 1,022 KB*. Freeware. Japanese software.

10/9/99 (Sat)

Announcement: Latest MacWIRE Online Gaming Column

MacWIRE Online* posted the newest issue of our gaming column. Japanese only.

Contents of October 9 issue* (Titles with * indicate Japanese softwares):
-- Mini Reviews: American Civil War Soldier, Tanaka
-- Other newest gaming informations

10/8/99 (Fri)

Train Driving Simulator "Hassha Yoshi! Hankyu Takarazuka Line"

Hankyu*, a Osaka-based train company, has released Hassha Yoshi! Hankyu Takarazuka Line*. It is a another train driving simulator where player drives trains in Osaka. Requires PowerPC (604e/120 MHz or better recommended), Mac OS 7.6.1 or later, RAM 32 MB or larger, free memory 16 MB or larger, 640 x 480/32,000 colors or better, CD-ROM 4x or faster, QuickTime 3 or later. Available as hybrid CD-ROM at retail stores in Japan or directly* for ¥4,800. Japanese software.

Emergency Room Disaster Strikes Released

Legacy Interactive and GT Interactive Software has released Emergency Room Disaster Strikes. Emergency Room Disaster Strikes is the sequel to Emergency Room 2, a popular medical simulation game, where player exams, diagnoses, and treats patients at scenes of urban disasters such as earthquake and floods. It includes as many as 100 patients of various situations, medically accurate databases, and a variety of medical devices. The newest installment also features close-up mode to manipulate tools and devices. Requires PowerPC/200 MHz or faster, Mac OS 7.6 or later, RAM 32 MB or larger, 32,000 colors or better, CD-ROM 16x or faster. Available as hybrid CD-ROM at retail stores in USA or directly for $29.95. (Source: MacGaming.com)

Game Updates (World-Wide)

-- ChessWorks 2.0.5 (Ekim Software): Chess program only for head-to-head net play. Version 2.0.5 fixes some bugs and changes the saved game file format. Size of the full version is 682 KB, updater from version 2.0.4 is 117 KB (more info). Freeware.
Followup: As of October 10, ChessWorks has been updated to 2.0.6.

-- Clan Lord v97 (Delta Tao Software): Online fantasy role playing game. Full version size is 20.7 MB, updater for CD-ROM users is 3.5 MB, updater from v94 is 1.2 MB (more info).

10/7/99 (Thu)

Game Updates

-- Dawn of Aces 2.73r0 (iMagic Entertainment Network): WWI flight simulator for network play. Version 2.73r0 features improved flight model, easy radio tuning by clicking a friendly plane, and other improvements. File size is 7.9 MB (more info). Public beta version.
Followup: As of October 10, Dawn of Aces has been updated to 2.73r1.

-- Redneck Rampage (Logicware): Hilarious sci-fi 3D first person perspective shooting set in southern USA. The new version features improved performance, customizable key setting, and other improvements. Updater size is 289 KB. Beta updater.

-- VirtualHamster 1.2 (HamsterSoft): Simple hamster breeding simulation. Version 1.2 features improved hamster's behavior, water bottle, and other improvements. File size is 192 KB (more info). Freeware or donation $2.
Followup: As of October 10, VirtualHamster has been updated to version 1.3.1.

10/5/99 (Tue)

Pacific Media WorX Released Tanaka for Download

Pacific Media WorX has released Tanaka for download. Tanaka is a sci-fi 3D racing arcade game set in futuristic city of Tanaka where player drives a armed hovercraft in half-tube circuits. It features various racing missions including time attack, carnage, and even escort, a variety of powerful equipment of engines and weapons, unique futuristic 3D graphics, and up to 8-player net play. Requires PowerPC/150 MHz or faster (G3 or better recommended), System 7.5 or later (Mac OS 8 or later recommended), free memory 16 MB or larger (32 MB or larger recommended), free HD 40 MB or larger), 256 colors or better, GameSprockets (InputSprocket supported), 3D card recommended. Available for download in USA for $24.95 with file size 26.2 MB (more info). The demo version is available with file size 12.3 MB (more info). (Source: MacGaming.com, IMG)
Followup: According to a report by a purchaser, the order seems to be available also from Japan.

Pro Pinball: Big Race USA Released

Empire Interactive and Interplay Productions have released Pro Pinball: Big Race USA. Pro Pinball: Big Race USA is the third installment of realistic 3D pinball series with theme of the famous Big Race USA. It features high quality 3D graphics and Dolby surround sound, acculate physical modeling of the balls and flippers, and high speed ball action using blur effect. The game play is challenging and elabolated thanks to the comprehensive set of rules, up to 10 balls multiball, and special features using LCD. Also features various difficulty and instrument settings, and simultaneous head-to-head net play. Requires PowerPC/100 MHz or faster (200 MHz or faster recommended), System 7.1 or later, RAM 16 MB or larger (32 MB or larger recommended), 640 x 480/256 colors or better (800 x 600/32,000 colors or better recommended, 1600 x 1200 supported), CD-ROM, Display Manager 2.0 or later, Open Transport for net play. Available at retail stores in USA or directly for $29.95 (orders from Japan not acceptable). Also, demo version is available with file size 26.4 MB (more info).

Game Bundle Pack "10 Tons of Fun"

Masque Publishing and StarPlay Productions has released 10 Tons of Fun. 10 Tons of Fun is a bundle pack of 10 games including Myth, Virtual Pool, Descent II, Alley 19 Bowling, Absolute Solitaire, A-10 Cuba, Starlight Casino, Pro Pinball, Bonkheads Deluxe, and Souls in the System. Available at retail stores in USA or directly for $39.99. (Source: Mach One*)

Game Updates (Japanese)

-- Golden2 1.1.4 (Candy House): Hamster breeding simulation and accessory software. Version 1.1.4 changes mouse pointers. File size is 539 KB. Shareware ¥1,000.

10/4/99 (Mon)

Simple Board Game "Parite"

RedShirt Studio has released Parite*. Parite is a simple strategic board game that is a variant of domino game. The player places a pair of 2-colored tokens in order that same-colored tokens doesn't come adjacent. It is played against computer with 5 different levels and Computer vs. Computer mode is also available. File size is 356 KB*. Freeware. (Source: MacWIRE Express*)

Game Updates (World-Wide)

-- Civilization II Multiplayer Gold Edition 1.1b2 (MacSoft): Multiplayer version of Civilization II bundled with add-on scenarios. Version 1.1b2 supports Navigation Services for file dialogs and fixes many bugs. Updater size is 1.3 MB (more info). Beta updater.

-- GameRanger 1.0b7 (Scott Kevill): Client software for the chat and server tracking service for net games. Version 1.0b7 adds tool-tips of hosted game descriptions and fixes a bug with debugging alert. File size is 546 KB (more info). Public beta version.
Followup: As of October 12, GameRanger has been updated to version 1.0b9.

-- Quake II 1.0.2b (Logicware): High-featured 3D first person shooting game. Version 1.0.2b fixes bugs related to Eraser Bot and other Mission Packs. Updater size is 209 KB.

-- Realmz 7.0.2 (Fantasoft): Popular 2D top view and 3D maze view epic fantasy role playing game. Version 7.0.2 fixes bugs. Full version size is 15.0 MB (more info), updater from version 7.0 is 448 KB (more info). Also, some scenario files updated (more info). Shareware $20.
Followup: As of October 12, Realmz has been updated to version 7.0.4.

-- X-Plane 5.11 (Laminar Research): Full-featured civilian flight simulator with beautiful texture graphics. Version 5.11 features freeform cockpit support, more powerful flight model, exchangeable situation files with more information, more realistic graphics of runways with asphalt and snow, landing on moving carriers, Doppler effects, several new planes, and other many improvements. Demo/Upgrade file size is 45.3 MB (more info). Users of version 4.42 or earlier can upgrade for $99 (more info).
Followup: As of October 10, X-Plane has been updated to version 5.11-B.

Game Updates (Japanese)

-- DonDen 2.0* (RedShirt Studio): Enhanced Tic-Tac-Toe game where player place tokens to make them in a line while moving opponent's tokens. Version 2.0 adds several new board set. File size is 234 KB*. Shareware* ¥600 or $5. Japanese software.

-- THE HATAAGE 1.1* (Takashi Okamoto*): Japanese Popular flag game where player takes up or down 2-colored flags according to the indication. Version 1.1 fixes bugs. File size is 459 KB*. Freeware.

10/2/99 (Sat)

Announcement: Latest MacWIRE Online Gaming Column

MacWIRE Online* posted the newest issue of our gaming column. Japanese only.

Contents of October 2 issue* (Titles with * indicate Japanese softwares):
-- Mini Reviews: 8th series of Shock Price 500*, Ski3D, PokaPoka Boxing*, Nobunaga-no Yabo: Reppuden*
-- Other newest gaming informations

10/1/99 (Fri)

SimCity 3000 Japanese Version Released

Electronic Arts Square* has released SimCity 3000 Japanese Version*. Developed by Maxis, SimCity 3000 is the newest installment of the popular city management simulation game where player, as a Mayor, build a new city from ground up by attracting residents and industries and by building various facilities. The Japanese version also includes additional landmarks and terrain data. Requires PowerPC 604/180 MHz or better (PowerPC G3/233 MHz or better recommended), Mac OS 8.1 or later (Mac OS 8.6 recommended), free memory 32 MB or larger (128 MB or larger recommended), free HD 300 MB or larger (500 MB or larger recommended), 640 x 480/32,000 colors or better (800 x 600 or better recommended), CD-ROM 12x or faster (24x or faster recommended), QuickTime 3.0 or later (QuickTime 4 included is recommended). Available at retail stores in Japan.

Bothtec Re-released Mac Pinball: TropicIsland

Bothtec* has released Mac Pinball: TropicIsland*. It is a re-released version of TropicIsland*, a pinball arcade game released in 1995 by momodera's BRAND (presently ModE). It features high resolution support, colorful and attractive graphics with anime-like characters, realistic simulation of the ball action, in-game LCD games, and friendly but challenging game play. Requires 68K or PowerPC including iMac, Mac OS 7.6 or later (8.6 supported), free memory 8 MB or larger, free HD 10 MB or larger, 640 x 480/32,000 colors, CD-ROM for install. Available at retail stores in Japan.

Ambrosia Software Re-released Ares as Shareware

Ambrosia Software has re-released Ares as a shareware and updated it to version 1.1.0. Developed by Bigger Planet, Ares is a networkable mission-oriented space strategy and Asteroids-type 2D shooting game originally released by Changeling Software in 1998. The player carries out a variety of missions through strategic operation and high-paced shooting action. The game consists of 21 missions including surprise attack, landing, and escort based-on an epic sci-fi story set in unknown Galaxy. It features various ship types such as cruiser, carrier, and even assault transport, seamlessly integrated strategy and shooting thanks to dynamically zooming, and the step-by-step tutorial mission to learn this rich-featured game. The new version 1.1.0 features GameRanger support, new tutorials, and other improvements. File size is 9.9 MB (more info). 68040/25 MHz or better (iMac supported), System 7.5.3 or later (Mac OS 7.6.1 or later for net play on 68040), display 640 x 480 or better. Shareware $25.

Railroad Tycoon II Gold Edition Preorder Started

Gathering of Developers started accepting preorder of upcoming Railroad Tycoon II Gold Edition. Developed by Poptop Software, Railroad Tycoon II Gold Edition is a bundle pack of railroad management simulation game and expansion kit including Railroad Tycoon II, Railroad Tycoon II: Second Century, 12 new scenarios, and electronic version of Railroad Tycoon II Strategy Guide. Requires PowerPC/132 MHz or faster, System 7.5.3 or later, RAM 16 MB or larger, free HD 220 MB or larger, display 800�~600 or better, CD-ROM 4x or faster. Preorder is available for $39.99. Expected on October 7.

P. & A. Releases Quake 3: Arena on November 26 in Japan

P. & A.* announced that they publish upcoming Quake 3: Arena* in Japan. Developed by id Software, Quake 3: Arena is newest installment of the high-featured 3D first person shooting series featuring cutting-edge graphic technology and head-to-head-oriented exiting action play. Expected on November 26. Maybe English version with Japanese manual. (Source: Mach One*)

Game Updates (World-Wide)

-- Ashcan 1.8.8 (Jerry Fritschle): Submarine destroying game where player must guess the depth and timing to drop ashcans. Version 1.8.8 fixes a crashing bug and improves the interface. File size is 658 KB (more info). Freeware.

-- GameRanger 1.0b6 (Scott Kevill): Client software for the chat and server tracking service for net games. Version 1.0b6 adds plug-in of Ares and features other improvements and bug fixes. File size is 544 KB (more info). Public beta version.
Followup: As of October 4, GameRanger has been updated to version 1.0b7.

-- Quake II 1.0.2 (Logicware): High-featured 3D first person shooting game. Version 1.0.2 fixes several bugs related to control and others. Updater size is 209 KB.
Followup: As of October 4, Quake II has been updated to version 1.0.2b.

-- VirtualHamster 1.1 (HamsterSoft): Simple hamster breeding simulation. Version 1.1 improves the interface and others. File size is 168 KB (more info). Freeware or donation $2.
Followup: As of October 10, VirtualHamster has been updated to version 1.3.1.