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 Some of versions and links in this page may be outdated.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 April, 2000

4/28/00 (Fri)

MacSnake Finally Released: Diabolo Software has released MacSnake. MacSnake is a simple snake arcade game where player controls a snake to get dots. It features unique scoring system with countdown that requires speedy play and several theme plug-ins called Skins. File size is 675 KB. Voluntary shareware $5. (Source: Version Tracker)
Game Preorders (World-Wide): -- Deus Ex (Aspyr Media): 3D sci-fi futuristic hard-boiled role-playing action game featuring high-featured game engine and elaborated story (game info). Preorder is available for $49.95. No expected release date has been given yet.

-- The Sims (Aspyr Media): Home management simulation game where player as a person to make a living by getting a job, having family, and other events. Preorder is available for $49.95. Expected in this summer?
Game Updates (World-Wide): -- X-Plane 5.25 (Laminar Research): Full-featured civilian flight simulator with beautiful texture graphics. Version 5.25 many improvements and fixes with screen display, simulation, and others. Demo/Upgrade file size is 40.3 MB (more info), updater from 5.23 is 1.2 MB (more info).
Followup: As of May 8, X-Plane has been updated to version 5.29.
Game Updates (Japanese): -- Nikaku-dori FINAL 1.4* (Tetsuya Hongo*): Enhanced version of another Mah Jong tile puzzle game popular in Japan. Version 1.4 improves screen interface and fixes some bugs. File size is 896 KB*. Shareware ¥1,000 (¥1,200 for online registration*). Japanese software.

4/27/00 (Thu)

Game Updates (World-Wide): -- Clan Lord v126 (Delta Tao Software): Online fantasy role playing game focused on collaboration and chatting. Full version size is 24.7 MB, updater from CD-ROM version is 9.1 MB, updater from v124 is 1.1 MB.
Followup: As of May 11, Clan Lord has been updated to version v128.

-- Cricket 5.0 (G.E.Randall): Cricket simulation game. Version 5.0 Adds bowling machine mode, supports stumping play, adds statistics screen, and adds Zimbabwe team. File size is 1.6 MB. Shareware £15.
Followup: As of May 12, Cricket has been updated to version 5.1.

4/26/00 (Wed)

Holiday-making Arcade Adventure Game Set in Zoo "Dobutsuen": Takeshi Sakai* has released Dobutsuen. Dobutsuen is a unique interactive arcade adventure game with the theme of holiday-making where player explores a zoo with various conversation and special events anywhere. It features flexible game play with a variation of scenes such as secrets and shopping as well as many other tricky gimmicks. The game can be played ether by single player or by 2 players. File size is 2.4 MB (more info). Requires Japanese System 7.1 or later, free memory 8 MB or larger, free HD 4.6 MB or larger, 256 colors or better. Freeware or voluntary shareware.
Followup: As of April 29, Dobutsuen has been removed from the site due to a serious bug. Fixed version will be posted soon.
Unique Othello-like Strategic Board Game "Nadare": Kiyoshi Takeuchi* has released Nadare*. Nadare is a unique strategic board game like Othello where player puts tokens and turns 3 adjacent opponent tokens to win the territory. It features simple bug very strategic game play and various game modes includes 1-player, 2-player, and computer-verses-computer mode. File size is 908 KB* (more info*). Freeware.
Game Preorders (World-Wide): -- Terminus (Vicarious Visions): Sci-fi space combat simulator and role playing strategy game set in the Solar System. Preorder is available for $49.95. Expected in June. (Source: Mach One*)

-- Tomb Raider: The Last Revelation (Aspyr Media): 4th installment of popular 3D exploration action game series where Lara Croft explores Egyptian ruins (game info). Preorder is available for $39.95. Expected in Summer or later?
Game Updates (World-Wide): -- Young's Modulus 1.35 (Laminar Research): Full-featured sci-fi 3D robot combat simulator and 3D space conquest simulation game supporting OpenGL. Version 1.35 adds new weapon LIGHTNING GUN. File size is 6.8 MB (more info). Shareware $29.
Followup: As of May 10, Young's Modulus has been updated to version 1.50.
Game Updates (Japanese): -- CarChaser 1.1* (PUGO*): 2D high speed vertical scrolling racing arcade game stack. Version 1.1 adds high score reset. File size is 13 KB*. Freeware. Japanese software.

-- Bi - Kagetora Nagao 1.2.3 Beta* (Keiji Higaki*): Unique fictional conquest simulation game where player conquers Africa with old Japanese samurais. Version 1.2.3 Beta changes the rule of conscription and rewarding, adds artillery units, and includes other improvements. File size is 198 KB*. MacLHA* is needed to extract the archive. Freeware but users must register (mailware).
Japanese software.
Followup: As of May 8, Bi - Kagetora Nagao has been updated to version 1.3 Beta.

4/25/00 (Tue)

Full-featured Professional Bridge Card Game Program "Bridge Baron 10": Great Game Products has released Bridge Baron 10. Bridge Baron 10 is a full-featured professional Bridge card game program featuring a powerful computer routine that is three-time winner of the world computer bridge championship. The program contains various play modes with 3 rules, match mode using a score system, The Blackwood Challenges to play 48 problem deals, personal history library, The ACBL Tournament mode to reproduce the deals in official tournaments. Available directly for $59.99. Also, a demo version is available with file size 2.0 MB (more info). (Source: CNET Download.com)

4/24/00 (Mon)

High Quality 3D Robot Combat Simulator and Space Conquest Simulation "Young's Modulus": Laminar Research, known for X-Plane flight simulator, has released Young's Modulus. Young's Modulus is a full-featured sci-fi 3D robot combat simulator and space conquest simulation game where player conquers the Galaxy through robot armer battles on planets with various terrains. It features combat simulation with realistic physical modeling, beautiful 3D graphics supporting OpenGL, 10 classes of weapons and 17 equipment arms, a variety of specification options such as reactor power and battery capacity, strategy screen that allows development and construction, and unique full 3D Galaxy map. File size is 6.3 MB (more info). Requires PowerPC/200 MHz or faster, RAM 96 MB or larger, free HD 30 MB or larger, monitor size 800 x 600 or larger, OpenGL, Speech Manager. Shareware $29.
Followup: As of May 10, Young's Modulus has been updated to version 1.50.
High Difficulty Tile Sliding Puzzle Game "Otenki": Kiyoshi Takeuchi* has released Otenki*. Otenki is a unique tile sliding puzzle game with theme of the weather where player scrolls the entire board contains "clear" and "rain" tiles to turn all tiles to the "clear" in a certain rule. It is simple to play but difficult to solve. The board size option ranges from easier 3 x 3 to very difficult 9 x 9. File size is 618 KB* (more info*). Freeware.
Game Updates (World-Wide): -- BOOM 1.2.1 (Factor Software): Bomberman-style 2D action arcade game. Version 1.2.1 improves the resolution switching, the refresh rate settings, and the joystick control, as well as fixes several bugs such as one with the score display. Full version size is 2.2 MB (more info), updater is 155 KB (more info). Shareware $15.

-- X-Plane 5.24 (Laminar Research): Full-featured civilian flight simulator with beautiful texture graphics. Version 5.24 optimizes drawing performance. Demo/Upgrade file size is 40.4 MB (more info), minimum updater is 1,016 KB (more info).
Followup: As of May 8, X-Plane has been updated to version 5.29.
Game Updates (Japanese): -- HyperBowl 3.0* (Seagull Soft*): Simple bowling simulation game played with a mouse. Version 3.0 refines game graphics and adds spin slider. File size is 1.5 MB*. MacLHA* is needed to extract the archive. Shareware* ¥500. Japanese software.

-- TRAMPOMAN 1.1* (Takuya Ono*): Unique arcade game where player jumps with a trampoline to stomp monsters. Version 1.1 fixes some bugs. File size is 451 KB*. Freeware. Japanese software.

-- Mojidasu99 2.1* (KSK-soft*): MasterMind-type Japanese word puzzle game. Version 2.1 improves game play and puzzle edit. Full version size is 1.6 MB* (more info*), updater is 272 KB* (more info*). Shareware ¥1,000 (¥952 for online registration*). Japanese software.

4/22/00 (Sat)

Announcement: Latest Gaming Columns on MacWIRE/iMacWIRE: MacWIRE Online* posted the newest issue of our weekly gaming column. Japanese only.

Contents of the MacWIRE column* on April 22 issue (Titles with * indicate Japanese softwares):
-- Short Reviews: Omohide-Prelude 2*, Unten Daidouraku 2000 SPECIAL VERSION*
-- Other latest gaming informations

Also, iMacWIRE Online* has started this gaming column with a special content for beginners. This week's iMacWIRE gaming column* also includes a roundup of new Japanese games released in this Spring.
Expansion Kit of Aqualium Breeding Simulation "AQUAZONE Power Updater DISCUS": OPeNBooK 9003* has released 2 titles of AQUAZONE Power Updater DISCUS*. It is a series of expansion kits of AQUAZONE, a popular aquarium breeding simulation software. The series consists of " Gene01 Blue Selection" including blue-type breeds and "Gene02 Yellow Selection" including brown-type breeds. Each allows users to crossbreed and make realistic breed improvement of Discus with the complex gene simulation. Also, included are feeds and accessories. Requires 68040 or better (PowerPC recommended), Japanese System 7.1 or later, free memory 24 MB or larger (36 MB or larger recommended), free HD 80 MB or larger, 640 x 480/256 colors or better, CD-ROM 2x or faster, full retail version of AQUAZONE 1.5 or later. Available as hybrid CD-ROM at retail stores in Japan. Also, the Starter Kit including DISCUS Gene01 Blue Selection and full retail version of AQUAZONE is available.
Game Updates (World-Wide): -- GameRanger 2.0.2 (Scott Kevill): Client software for the general online gaming service. Version 2.0.2 improves older Mac OS support. File size of the net installer is 165 KB (more info). Auto-update available. Freeware.

4/21/00 (Fri)

Unique Slot Machine and Hamster Breeding Game "Golden Slot": Candy House has released Golden Slot. Golden Slot is a unique hamster breeding simulation game where player gets feeds and other supply by winning slot machine. It includes as many as 56 realistic Japanese parlor-style slot machines with different settings and behavior. File size is 1.7 MB. Shareware ¥2,000. Japanese software.
Game Updates (World-Wide): -- David's Backgammon 3.7.2 (David Byrum): Backgammon game with many features and options. Version 3.7.2 includes some improvements and fixes. File size is 512 KB. Shareware $20 ($22 for online registration).

-- GameRanger 2.0.1 (Scott Kevill): Client software for the general online gaming service. Version 2.0.1 improves the memory usage, and includes other improvements and fixes. File size of the net installer is 165 KB (more info). Auto-update available. Freeware.
Followup: As of April 21, GameRanger has been updated to version 2.0.2.

-- NetTower 1.1.1* (The OuterCircle): Networkable jumping arcade game based on NS-TOWER*. Version 1.1.1 improves the graphics engine and the interface, and fixes the assertion error. File size is 945 KB*. Shareware $8.

4/20/00 (Thu)

Game Updates (World-Wide): -- Roger Wilco 1.0a16 (HearMe): Voice chat utility for net games. Version 1.0a16 fixes several crashing bugs. File size is 1.5 MB (more info). Public alpha version.

4/19/00 (Wed)

Game Preorders (World-Wide): -- Driver (MacSoft): Car chasing arcade game set in 4 major USA cities with very realistic landscape graphics and detailed street maps. Preorder is available only in USA or Canada for $49.99.
Game Updates (World-Wide): -- Boogle 1.5 (C.DEV): Word finding game where player creates as many words as possible from a grid of 5 x 5 letters. Version 1.5 improves the arrangement of random letters, adds difficulty settings, and adds a new theme. File size is 3.4 MB. Shareware $10.

-- Kenzo 3.0.3 (ICP): Yahtzee dice game for up to 6 players. Version 3.0.3 adds computer players. File size is 3.3 MB (more info). Shareware $20.
Game Updates (Japanese): -- Mac-de Ski! 1.1* (ORION PROJECT*): 2D ski arcade game where player accumulate skiing experience points to pass examination. Version 1.1 improves the qualifications of the examination. File size is 906 KB* (more info*). Shareware* ¥500. Japanese software.

4/18/00 (Tue)

High School Comedy Role Playing Game "Omohide-Prelude 2": Zesty Ltd.* has released Omohide-Prelude 2*. Omohide-Prelude 2 is an enhanced sequel to the anime-style role playing game with stories of teen ager's school life and classroom romance comedy. The player takes a role of a high school boy and makes girl friends through conversations with them in his classroom. It features the proprietary character generator, multistory scenarios with wide variety of characters and events, and a unique score system to allow good playability. The sequel also features as many as 8 scenario, higher graphic quality, more variation of the character generator, and new game element such as the town map and the budget management. File size is 2.1 MB* (more info*). Requires PowerPC (604e/200 MHz or better recommended), Mac OS 8.1 or later (Mac OS 9 supported), free memory 20 MB or larger, 256 colors or better. Shareware* ¥1,200. Japanese software.
Simple Basketball Arcade "BasketballBob": Illusion Software has released BasketballBob. BasketballBob is a simple Basketball arcade game where player shoots a ball to get as many goals as possible. File size is 386 KB. Freeware.
Game Updates (World-Wide): -- NetTower 1.1* (The OuterCircle): Networkable jumping arcade game based on NS-TOWER*. Version 1.1 improves drawing performance and adds new graphics and sounds. File size is 941 KB*. Shareware $8.
Followup: As of April 21, NetTower has been updated to version 1.1.1.

-- Screamer 1.0 (build 51) (William): Full-featured Chess program with variable hash table and AppleEvent support. Version 1.0 (build 51) improves the time control settings and a fixes crashing bug. File size of PowerPC version is 592 KB, 68K version is 553 KB. Freeware.

4/17/00 (Mon)

Announcement: Latest Gaming Columns on MacWIRE: MacWIRE Online* posted the newest issue of our weekly gaming columns. Japanese only.

Contents of the MacWIRE column* on April 15 issue (Titles with * indicate Japanese softwares):
-- Short Reviews: Poker Hole (with screen movie), Onkan Shinkei Suijaku* (with screen movie), CarChaser*
-- Weekly Game News Digest
New Medical Simulation Game "Emergency Room Life or Death": Legacy Interactive has released Emergency Room Life or Death. Emergency Room Life or Death is the latest installment of the popular interactive medical simulation game series, where player exams, diagnoses, and treats patients according to real-world medical method. The newest installment features 50 critical, life-threatening care cases such as heart attacks and deadly traumas and includes 40 tools/tests and more than 250 video scenes. 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 $24.95.
Game Updates (World-Wide): -- ScreenTest 1.1 (CompleatMac Software): Trivia quiz game of quotes from more than 300 movies. Version 1.1 improves screen graphics and adds new questions. File size is 1.4 MB. Shareware $10.

-- Voodoo3 Macintosh Drivers 1.0b12 (3dfx Interactive): Generic driver for 3Dfx Voodoo3 graphics cards. Version 1.0b12 features full support of 3D RAVE games such as Nanosaur and Bugdom and fixes several bugs related to 2D graphics and others. File size is 488 KB. Public Beta Version.
Game Updates (Japanese): -- Wonder Crackers "PERFECT" 1.2b* (Kijibato): Classic-style 2D arcade game series where mischievous children explore a wonder house. Version 1.2b supports InputSprocket. Updater from version 1.1 is 1.5 MB (more info*). Full version 1.1 is needed to play the game with file size 2.1 MB (more info*). Shareware ¥500 ($7 for online registration). Beta updater. Japanese software. Also English version is available.

4/15/00 (Sat)

Announcement: This Week's MacWIRE Gaming Columns to be Posted on Next Monday: Due to maintenance of MacWIRE Online* in this weekend, this week's MacWIRE Gaming Columns will be posted on next Monday, April 17. Sorry for any inconvenience.
Followup: As of April 15, this week's MacWIRE Gaming Column has been released.
Game Demos (World-Wide): -- Kawasaki ATV PowerSports (Monkey Byte Development): 3D off-road racing arcade game of Kawasaki ATV's. Demo size is 6.9 MB (more info). Full retail version is available as hybrid CD-ROM at retail stores in USA or directly for $24.95.
Game Updates (World-Wide): -- Fuffy 2.0 (Chong-Yee Khoo): Yahtzee-type dice game. Version 2.0 supports 68K machines, improves screen interface and keyboard shortcuts, improves registration, changes the program internally, and fixes some bugs. File size is 651 KB (more info). Shareware $15.

-- Screamer 1.0 (build 50) (William): Full-featured Chess program with variable hash table and AppleEvent support. Version 1.0 (build 50) fixes bugs with Mac OS 9 or others. File size of PowerPC version is 591 KB, 68K version is 552 KB. Freeware.
Followup: As of April 18, Screamer has been updated to version 1.0 (build 51).

-- Wonder Crackers "PERFECT" English Version 1.11 (Kijibato): English version of classic-style 2D arcade game series where mischievous children explore a wonder house. File size is 2.1 MB. Shareware $7. Also, a beta updater 1.2b that supports InputSpracket is available with file size 1.5 MB, that requires data files of version 1.11.

4/14/00 (Fri)

Shinkansen and Steam Locomotive Simulator Bundle "Unten Daidouraku 2000 SPECIAL VERSION"
JR West Communications and JR WEST TRADING* has released Unten Daidouraku 2000 SPECIAL VERSION*. It is a special bundle pack of following 2 train driving simulator titles.

-- Unten Douraku 3: Hikari Rail Star: Simulator of newest Shinkansen super express train featuring cutting-edge electronic cockpit.
-- Unten Douraku 4: SL Yamaguchi-go: Realistic simulator of a classic steam locomotive featuring accurate simulation of the steam engine that requires complex operation.

Requires PowerPC 604/180 MHz (G3 or better recommended), Mac OS 8 or better, free memory 32 MB or larger, 640 x 480/32,000 colors or better, CD-ROM 8x or faster. Available as hybrid CD-ROM at retail stores in Japan. Japanese software.
Historical Quiz Game Collection "Ultra Quiz/Rekishi-hen"
MediaKite* has released Ultra Quiz/Rekishi-hen. Ultra Quiz series is a low-price version of the quiz game collection series released in 1996. This Rekishi-hen includes as many as 10,000 question about Japanese and world history. It can be played by single player or 2 players using mouse and keyboard. Requires PowerPC, Japanese System 7.5.5 or later, free memory 25 MB or larger, 640 x 480/32,000 colors or later, CD-ROM 10x or faster. Available as hybrid CD-ROM at retail stores in Japan.
3 Popular Table Games Re-released
CYBERFRONT* has re-released following 3 popular table game titles developed and published by i4*.

-- AI Shogi 2*: Shogi game (a chess-like Japanese game) with professional-level computer algorithm and net play support. Requires PowerPC (iMac supported), Japanese System 7.5 or later (7.5.3 or later for net play), RAM 16 MB or larger (32 MB or larger recommended), CD-ROM.
-- AI Igo 6*: Go game (Japanese classic territory capturing game) with professional-level computer algorithm and net play support. Requires PowerPC (iMac supported), Japanese System 7.5 or later (7.5.3 or later for net play), RAM 16 MB or larger (32 MB or larger recommended), CD-ROM.
-- AI Mah-Jongg*: Mah-Jongg game with strong and natural computer routine and net play support. Requires PowerPC (iMac supported), Japanese System 7.5.3 or later, free memory 12 MB or larger (32 MB or larger recommended), 800 x 600/256 colors or better, CD-ROM.

Each available at retail stores in Japan. Japanese software.
High Speed Scrolling Racing Stack "CarChaser"
PUGO* has released CarChaser*. CarChaser is a 2D high speed scrolling racing arcade game stack where player controls a car to pass as many cars as possible while avoiding collision. It features smooth scrolling and car action unparalleled as a game stack. Also, it is playable even on slow machines. File size is 12 KB*. 68LC040 or better, HyperCard 2.2 or later (2.3 or later recommended for PowerPC). Freeware. Japanese software.
Game Demos (World-Wide)
-- Teazle 2 StonePacker Demo (Aniware AB): Demo puzzle game from unique online mini game collection Teazle 2 where player slides blocks in order to pack as many blocks as possible. Demo size is 1.7 MB (more info). Full retail version is available at retail stores in Sweden or Norway.
Game Updates (World-Wide)
-- Clan Lord v124 (Delta Tao Software): Online fantasy role playing game. Version v124 fixes some bugs. Full version size is 24.4 MB, updater from CD-ROM version is 8.8 MB, updater from v122 is 384 KB.

4/13/00 (Thu)

Game Updates (World-Wide)
-- Boogle 1.2 (C.DEV): Word finding game where player creates as many words as possible from a grid of 5 x 5 letters. Version 1.2 adds Score History, improves the behavior of multiple windows, and fixes some bugs. File size is 3.2 MB. Shareware $10.
Followup: As of April 19, Boogle has been updated to version 1.5.

-- Realmz 7.0.9 (Fantasoft): Popular 2D top view and 3D maze view epic fantasy role playing game. Full version size is 15.4 MB (more info), updater is 454 KB (more info). Shareware $20.

4/12/00 (Wed)

MineSweeper-type Strategic Puzzle "Sorakara" & Bingo-type Ball Action Puzzle "Korokara"
Morisuke* has released 2 unique strategic puzzle games.

-- Sorakara*: MineSweeper-type strategic puzzle game where player guesses energy level of each bomb from numbers placed on the grid. It features various game options of board size and difficulty. File size is 511 KB*.

-- Korokara*: Bingo-like ball action puzzle game where player rolls a ball on a board with arrows to get numbers and completes lines in the matrix. It features Pachinko-like score system. File size is 509 KB*. (Source: MacWIRE*)

Each requires PowerPC. Freewares. Japanese softwares.
Game Updates (Japanese)
-- Golden Mahjong 1.0.1 (Candy House): Unique Mah-Jongg game where player glows a hamster by winning games. Version 1.0.1 fixes bugs with rule and display.. Shareware ¥2,000 (¥2,200 for online registration*). Japanese software.

-- CandyHouse 1.1.0 (Candy House): Mah-Jongg game with unique computer characters. Version 1.1.0 fixes bugs with rule and display.. Shareware ¥3,000 (¥3,200 for online registration*). Japanese software.

-- Bi - Kagetora Nagao 1.2.2 Beta* (Keiji Higaki*): Unique fictional conquest simulation game where player conquers Africa with old Japanese samurais. Version 1.2.2 Beta adds a new neutral nation in Madagascar and fixes bugs. File size is 190 KB*. MacLHA* is needed to extract the archive. Freeware but users must register the copy (mailware). Japanese software.

4/11/00 (Tue)

Full-voice Casino Poker Game "Blackjack Royale"
Gypsy King Software has released Poker Hole. Poker Hole is a Casino-style Poker card game to play 5 Card Draw, Video Poker, and unique 2-card poker Acey Ducey. It features full-voice sounds of a genuine Poker dealer and a computer player with 3 levels. File size is 8.2 MB. Shareware $10. (Source: MacGaming.com)
Cryptgram Puzzle Game "MacCrypt"
Paul Dobbs has released MacCrypt. MacCrypt is a word puzzle game where player solves cryptograms of various phrases. The game includes 3 phrase collections called Puzzle Lists with theme of "Devil's Dictionary", "Gospels", and "Quotes". Also, user can create new Puzzle Lists using a puzzle editor. It features a sophisticated solving interface supporting both typing and dragging letters. File size is 1,021 KB. Shareware $10.
Auditory Memory Game "Onkan Shinkei Suijaku"
Studio J* has released Onkan Shinkei Suijaku*. Onkan Shinkei Suijaku is a unique auditory Memory game where player matches pair of cards with sound. The game has 2 game modes; "Ontei Suijaku" to match the pitch and "Neiro Suijaku" to match the instrument. It features challenging score system with various bonus. File size is 549 KB* (more info*). Requires PowerPC, Mac OS 8 or later, QuickTime 2.5 or later. Shareware* ¥500. Japanese software.
Game Updates (World-Wide)
-- Aleph One 0.9.1 (Loren Petrich): Unofficial updater for Marathon 2/Infinity supporting OpenGL using the open source. Version 0.9.1 fixes a bug the with multi channel sound playback. File size is 399 KB (more info). Requires Marathon Infinity.

-- Blackjack Royale 1.2 (Gypsy King Software): Realistic Casino-style Blackjack card game with genuine dealer's voice. File size is 10.3 MB. Shareware $10.

-- Byte Me! 1.12b (Freeverse Software): Area-capturing board game with online play support via HMS Freeverse. File size is 2.1 MB (more info). OpenGL and HMSFreeverseLib are required. Public beta version.

-- Candy Crisis 1.0 (John Stiles): Puzzle arcade game like Japanese popular Puyo Puyo (former name: Skittles 2). Candy Crisis 1.0 adds some advanced options and fixes several bugs. Full version size is 7.5 MB (more info), updater from Skittles 2 is 3.4 MB (more info). Shareware $25.

-- Eagle Strike 1.03 (Jim Plamondon): 1942-style 2D shooting arcade game where player controls F-15 Eagle and shoots USSR fighters. File size is 2.9 MB. Shareware $10.

-- Euchre Deluxe 1.0b1 (Freeverse Software): Euchre card game to play against humorous computer players or online via HMS Freeverse. File size is 696 KB (more info). Spades Deluxe 2.1 is required as support files. Public beta version.

-- Starship 1.0.2 (PineHill Products): 2D side scrolling shooting arcade game. File size is 2.2 MB. Shareware $14.95.

4/8/00 (Sat)

4/7/00 (Fri)

Game Updates (World-Wide)
-- F/A-18 Korea 1.1 Beta 3 (Graphic Simulations): Mission oriented multipurpose fighter simulator Version 1.1 Beta 3 (former version name "F/A-18 Korea GL") supports GameRanger. Updater size is 2.9 MB, updater from version GL 1.1b2 is 606 KB (more info).

-- GameRanger F/A-18 Korea Plug-in (Scott Kevill): F/A-18 Korea plug-in for the general online gaming service. The plug-in is available via auto updating. Also, a net installer for new users is available with file size 165 KB (more info). Requires F/A-18 Korea 1.1 Beta 3 or later (more info). Freeware.

4/6/00 (Thu)

StarCraft Battle Chest Released
Blizzard Entertainment has released StarCraft Battle Chest. StarCraft Battle Chest is a bundle pack of the realtime sci-fi space strategy game series including StarCraft, a expansion kit StarCraft: Brood War, and Strategy Guides by Prima Publishing. Requires PowerPC, Mac OS 7.6 or later, RAM 16 MB or larger, 640 x 480/256 colors or better, CD-ROM 2x or faster (4x or faster for movie playback). Available as hybrid CD-ROM at retail stores in USA or directly for $39.95. It is reported that also previously released PC-only version of StarCraft Battle Chest is actually Mac compatible hybrid CD-ROM. (Source: MacGaming.com)
Game Updates (World-Wide)
-- Harpoon3 3.1.2 (Advanced Gaming Systems): The newest version of popular modern naval war simulation. Version 3.1.2 fixes a bug. Size of the updater from 3.1.1 is 215 KB (more info). Go to Download page for update from earlier versions.

-- MacSnake 1.0b5 (Diabolo Software): Speedy snake arcade game with countdown scoring. Version 1.0b5 changes game play and fixes bugs. File size is 655 KB. Public beta version.

4/5/00 (Wed)

Game Updates (World-Wide)
-- Psion Boy 3.0 (Doug Kavanagh): Unique 2D role playing arcade game where player fights against enemy characters by hypnotism. Version 3.0 supports InputSprocket, adds new levels, improves the performance, and other improvements/additions such as better non-playable characters and clone system. File size is 2.6 MB (more info). Freeware.

4/4/00 (Tue)

Game Updates (World-Wide)
-- Avernum 1.0.1 (SpiderWeb Software): Epic fantasy role playing game that is the enhanced version of Exile: Escape From the Pit. Version 1.0.1 fixes some bugs and improves the error check. Full version size is 7.1 MB, updater is 958 KB (more info). Shareware $25.

-- Hang2000 1.7.1 (Space-Time Associates): Newest version of popular word game Hangman featuring color graphics, speech synthesizer, various new categories. Version 1.7.1 changes and fixes some question categories. File size is 419 KB. Shareware $20.

-- Steel Fighters 1.2.2 (ColdSteel Software): Lunar Rescue-type 2D head-to-head shooting arcade game with 10 stages and 20 unique weapons. Version 1.2.2 improves music playback and fixes the computer player routine and several other bugs. File size is 1.7 MB. Shareware 50 mk, 10 Euro, or online registration for $15.
Game Updates (Japanese)
-- USB Overdrive Japanese Version 1.3 (Tomoharu Miyamoto*): Generic USB input device driver supporting non-InputSprocket-compliant softwares. Japanese version is added from this version. File size is 239 KB*. Shareware $20 (registered users of the English version don't need to register again).

4/3/00 (Mon)

Movie Quote Trivia Quize Game "ScreenTest"
CompleatMac Software has released ScreenTest. ScreenTest is a trivia quiz game with theme of movie quotes. It includes more than 300 questions and the player guesses the movie titles from 20 quotes. File size is 1.4 MB. Requires PowerPC, System 7.0 or later (Mac OS 9 supported), free memory 4 MB. Shareware $10.
Circuit Connection Puzzle Game "Setsuzokuban"
Kiyoshi Takeuchi* has released Setsuzokuban*. Setsuzokuban is a unique puzzle game with the theme of circuit connection where player places crossed wiring parts on a grid board to connect pairs of terminals. It has simple rule but the player must properly place parts to make as many connection as possible. File size is 690 KB* (more info*). Freeware. Japanese software.
Detective Adventure Stack "Fujiwara Yon Kyodaino Yabo II"
Yasuyuki Muradate* of Mars Project has released "Fujiwara Yon Kyodaino Yabo II -CYBER Tantei Monagatari-*". It is the second installment of the detective adventure game stack series where a novel writer starts detective agency and solves various cases. It features unique story and characters as well as simple fighting scenes. File size is 3.0 MB* (more info*). Requires free memory 6 MB or larger, 640 x 480/256 colors or better, HyperCard. Freeware. Japanese software.
Game Updates (World-Wide)
-- Fuffy 1.1.2 (Chong-Yee Khoo): Yahtzee-type dice game. Version 1.1.2 adds high score reset and fixes several bugs. File size is 853 KB (more info). Shareware $10.
Followup: As of April 15, Fuffy has been updated to version 2.0 and shareware price has been changed to $15.

-- MacBrickout 4.0.3 (Leapfrog Software): Enhanced Breakout-type arcade game. Version 4.0.3 fixes some bugs with custom levels/sounds and others. Full version size is 1.7 MB (more info), updater is 1.1 MB (more info). Shareware $25.
Game Updates (Japanese)
-- Power Rally Special Stage 2.4* (ORION PROJECT*): 2D omnidirectional scrolling rally racing arcade game. Version 2.4 improves operability and adds a new short course. File size is 3.3 MB*. Shareware* ¥500. Japanese software.

4/1/00 (Sat)

Announcement: Latest Gaming Columns on MacWIRE
MacWIRE Online* posted the newest issue of our weekly gaming columns. Japanese only.

Contents of the MacWIRE column* on April 1 issue (Titles with * indicate Japanese softwares):
-- Short Reviews: 10th Installment of SHOCK PRICE 500 Series*, The Bistro 2: Sekaini Chosen*, Sanzennen Shokudo*
-- Other latest gaming informations
YOU DON'T KNOW JACK Louder! Faster! Funnier! Released
Berkeley Systems and Sierra Attractions have released YOU DON'T KNOW JACK Louder! Faster! Funnier! (developer: Jellyvision). It is the Second quiz collection from YOU DON'T KNOW JACK: The Netshow, a online hilarious quiz game. It contains 1000 questions of over 45 episodes and some new categories. Requires PowerPC, System 7.5.5 or later, free memory 10 MB or larger, free HD 35 MB or larger, 640 x 480/256 colors or better, CD-ROM 4x or faster, Sound Manager 3.2.1 included. Available as hybrid CD-ROM at retail stores in USA or directly for $29.95.

Also, YOU DON'T KNOW JACK 2001, a bundle of YOU DON'T KNOW JACK Offline and Louder! Faster! Funnier! that contains 2000 questions from The Netshow, is available as hybrid CD-ROM at retail stores in USA or directly for $39.95.

(Source: MacGaming.com)
Star Wars: Anakin's Speedway Released
Lucas Learning has released Star Wars: Anakin's Speedway. It is a 2D racing arcade and simulation game for children where player, as Anakin Skywalker, constructs Podrace test tracks using various parts such as jumps and loops, and drives through the own circuits. It features simulation-like game play to learn physical behaviors, unique cartoon-style graphics and movie scenes, coloring and printing of courses, and many other fun features such as trading cards and hidden clickables. Requires PowerPC 603e/160 MHz, 604/120 MHz, or better, Mac OS 7.6 or later, RAM 32 MB or larger, free HD 55 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 or directly only in USA for $19.95. For ages 4 or up.
Full-featured Mah-Jongg Game "JONGDOU 4"
SystemSoft* has released JONGDOU 4*. JONGDOU 4 (developer: Mediarium) is the latest version of full-featured Mah-Jongg game series played against computer players or via LAN. It features as many as 30 unique computer players with advanced AIs, game modes for various skill levels, powerful tutorial mode dedicated for beginners, and many a number of options to allow flexible game customization. Requires PowerPC, Mac OS 8 or later (Mac OS 9 supported), free memory 20 MB or larger, free HD 100 MB or larger, 640 x 480/250 colors or better, CD-ROM 2x or faster. LAN play requires Mac OS 8.1 or later and NetSprocket included. Available at retail stores in Japan. Japanese software.
YOU DON'T KNOW JACK Japanese Edition Released
HAMSTER* and Tsukuda Synergy* have released YOU DON'T KNOW JACK Presented by Masatoshi Hamada (USA version developer: Jellyvision, USA publisher: Berkeley Systems, Japanese version developer: Yoshimoto Kogyo*). It is a totally Japanese localized edition of the popular hilarious quiz game featuring Japanese top comedian "Hama-chan" as the host. It features interactive voice performance using full of Hama-chan's own humorous speech, a variety of 7 game categories requires both knowledge and sense of humor, as many as 250 all-new question for Japanese users, speedy interface supports 1 to 3 players, and a number of famous guest talents. Requires PowerPC/100 MHz or faster, Mac OS 7.6 or later, RAM 32 MB or larger, free HD 30 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.
Game Demos (World-Wide)
-- LAST CALL (Simon & Schuster Interactive): Comical bartending role playing simulation game set in a downtown New York bar where player challenges making drinks and serving customers. Ages 21 or up recommended. Demo size is 25.6 MB (more info). Full retail version is available as hybrid CD-ROM at retail stores in USA or directly for $17.95. (Source: IMG)
Game Updates (World-Wide)
-- Clan Lord v122 (Delta Tao Software): Online fantasy role playing game. Version v122 features several improvements with items and equipments as well as some bug fixes. Full version size is 25.7 MB, updater is 8.9 MB, Clan Lord v122 Update from v119 is 1.3 MB.

-- GameRanger 2.0 (Scott Kevill): Client software for the general online gaming service. Version 2.0 adds buddy list to display the status of friends, adds new features to the game server finder, adds message log, adds several new options, improves the voice chat, and includes many other improvements and fixes. File size of the net installer is 164 KB (more info). Auto-update available. Freeware.

-- glTron 0.59 (Andreas Umbach): Tron-type snake arcade game with 3D view using OpenGL. Version 0.59 improves computer player, adds various options, and includes many other improvements and fixes. File size is 1.4 MB (more info). Public beta version.

-- MacDo 1.0.2 (Sebastian Wegner): 2D digging arcade game like Mr. Do or Dig Dug. Version 1.0.2 fixes crashes in levels with dragons. File size is 1.3 MB (more info). Shareware $15.

-- Sid Meier's Alpha Centauri Extra scenarios and colorblind artwork (Aspyr Media): Small expansion kit for the turn-based strategic-class sci-fi political management and conquest simulation game set in an alien planet. 2 new scenarios and alternative artwork for users with colorblindness included. File size is 12.1 MB (more info)
Game Updates (Japanese)
-- Ekotori 1.0.1* (Akira*): Card game for 4 or 5 players called "Goninikan" or "Relation". Version 1.0.1 fixes a bug with the settings screen. File size is 175 KB* (more info*). Freeware. Japanese software.

-- Tantei Suiri Adventure "Shumatsuno Jikenbo" Dai 6-wa* (U-GI SOFTWARE*): Sixth episode of the interactive detective story series where a detective is involved in a comical trouble by a willful girl. This installment consists of 2 parts. File size of part 1 is 2.0 MB*, part 2 is 1.9 MB* (more info*). Freeware. Japanese software.