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 Some of versions and links in this page may be outdated.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

12/31/00 (Sun)

Unique Puzzle Game Collection "Pink-no Goal & Viridian-no Zo: Nihon Puzzle-ka Keikaku": IMAGICA* has released "Pink-no Goal & Viridian-no Zo: Nihon Puzzle-ka Keikaku*". It is a unique arcade-style puzzle game where player controls a little green elephant to escape metamorphic rooms with crumbling floor. The game contains 500 levels of involved puzzles as well as a puzzle editor to create and publish new puzzles. Requires PowerPC/120 MHz or faster, Mac OS 8.1 or later, free memory 32 MB or larger, free HD 30 MB or larger, 640 x 480/256 colors or better, CD-ROM 2x or faster. Available as hybrid CD-ROM at retail stores in Japan. Japanese software.
SimPeople (The Sims Japanese Version) Released: Electronic Arts Square* has released SimPeople*. SimPeople (The Sims Japanese Version, developer: Maxis, porting: Westlake Interactive, USA publisher: Aspyr Media) is Japanese version of the unique home management and daily life simulation game where player takes a role of a person of Sims, imaginary people in the simulation, and manages a family while experiencing daily life and various events. Requires PowerPC G3/233 MHz or better (333 MHz or faster recommended, iMac, iBook supported), Mac OS 8.1 or later (Mac OS 9 supported), free memory 32 MB or larger (96 MB or larger recommended), free HD 350 MB or larger (500 MB or larger recommended), CD-ROM 8x or faster (16x or faster recommended), 640 x 480/32,000 colors or better (800 x 600 or larger recommended), QuickTime 4 included. Available at retail stores in Japan.; Ground Zero Software has released Temple Tantrum. Temple Tantrum is a 2D arcade game where player moves a explorer by mouse to get gems in the Temple by cracking encasements. It features simple but unique game play requiring careful mouse operation, and various enemies and traps as well as bonus items for power up. File size is 9.0 MB. Requires PowerPC (iMac, iBook supported), Mac OS 8.1 or later, RAM 12 MB or larger, free HD 15.3 MB or larger, 640 x 480/256 colors, QuickTime. Shareware $18. (Source: IMG)
Sin Gold Released: MacPlay has released Sin Gold. Sin Gold (developer: ritual entertainment, porting: Contraband Entertainment) is near-future 3D first person action adventure game where Colonel John R. Blade, the leader of a private protection agency, carries infiltration and wages war against the homicidal biochemist Elexis Sinclaire who plans intrigue to overtake the world by army of genetically-engineered mutants (game info). It features character-diven nonlinear woven story changing with the result of each action scenes, gorgeous environments by Quake II engine, adventure-oriented scenario with full of vehicles and tricks, a variety of action play with a lot of weapons and items such as sniper rifle and remote control detonation, and online support by GameRanger. Also, it contains Wages of Sin Mission Pack (developer: 2015) including 17 new missions that is sequel to the original game. Requires PowerPC G3/233 MHz or better, Mac OS 8.6 or later, RAM 64 MB or larger. Available at retail stores in USA. Also, a demo version is available with file size 61.0 MB (more info).
Theme Park World (SimTheme Park) Released: Feral Interactive has released Theme Park World. Theme Park World (developer: Bullfrog, PC version publisher: Electronic Arts, porting: Elegant Chaos) is a total theme park management simulation game that is the sequel to Theme Park where player creates and manages a theme park with various attractions, facilities, and staffs. The new installment features 4 different types of theme parks to challenge and 3D screen to explore and enjoy the park. Also, it supports Theme Park World Online service that allows to publish and visit theme parks created by users. Requires PowerPC/266 MHz or faster (300 MHz or faster recommended), Mac OS 8.5 or later, RAM 64 MB or larger (128 MB or larger recommended), virtual memory 128 MB or larger, free HD 150 MB or larger, CD-ROM 4x or faster, 3D card supported, VRAM 6 MB or larger (16 MB or larger recommended), OpenGL 1.1.2 or later (included), QuickTime 4.0 or later (included). Available at retail stores in UK or directly for $44.95 including shipping. In USA, Aspyr Media released the same game as SimTheme Park and available at retail stores or directly for $34.95. Also, a demo version is available with file size 53.8 MB (more info).
Rune Released: Gathering of Developers has released Rune. Rune (developer: Human Head Studios) is a 3D epic fantasy action adventure based on Viking mythology where player, as a young Viking warrior named Ragnar, explores several unique Norse kingdoms and fights against dark force of Loki, a god of deception and mischief. The game uses high-quality engine based on Unreal Tournament and enhanced to support natural representation of the environments and character animations. Also, it features unique game play with combination of intense melee action and elaborated adventure play, as many as 43 various levels ranging from the darkest depths to the highest Nordic mountains, 15 weapons including magical swords and axes, sophisticated screen interface for direct playability, and Deathmatch and Team Deathmatch net play supporting GameRanger. Requires PowerPC (iMac Rev. B or later supported), Mac OS 8.1 or later, RAM 64 MB or larger, free HD 400 MB or larger, CD-ROM 4x or faster, OpenGL 3D card/VRAM 6 MB or larger, modem 28.8 kbps or faster for net play. Available at retail stores in USA or directly for $39.99. Also, a demo version is available with file size 80.3 MB (more info).
Game Updates (World-Wide): -- GameRanger Heroes III- Complete, Shogo- M.A.D. Plug-ins (Scott Kevill): Heroes III Complete and Shogo: Mobile Armor Division plug-ins 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). Freeware.

-- Ghetto Games 2 (Culturally Affluent): New version of the collection of 7 simple games and programs. Version adds colors to all games and adds new MasterMind game. File size is 77 KB. Freeware.

12/30/00 (Sat)

Unique Sci-Fi 2D Arcade Game "NODE JUMPER": Soleau Software has released NODE JUMPER. NODE JUMPER is a unique sci-fi 2D space arcade game where player clears meteors by passing surrounding grids while avoiding enemies. The game includes 8 missions with 5 levels each, and features aggressive enemy characters and complex levels with tricks like warp and power-up. File size is 3.6 MB. Shareware $18. (source: TUCOWS.Com)
Heroes III Complete Released: The 3DO Company has released Heroes III Complete. Heroes III Complete (developer: New World Computing, porting: Evolution Interactive) is a special bundle pack of Heroes of Might and Magic III, a fantasy strategy conquest simulation game set in the world of Might & Magic, and 2 expansion scenarios. In the game, the player controls the actions of heroes to carry out various mission scenarios while conquering and managing towns. It contains following 3 scenarios:

-- Heroes of Might and Magic III: The Restoration of Erathia: The original version of Heroes of Might and Magic III including various scenarios set in the mythical land of Erathia (game info).
-- Heroes of Might and Magic III: Armageddon's Blade: Expansion scenario where Queen Catherine invades the the demon kingdom of Ecofol to avoid Lucifer Kreegan's intrigue (game info).
-- Heroes of Might and Magic III: The Shadow of Death: Expansion scenario where 4 heroes quests for the fabled Angelic Alliance sword to defeat undead forces lead by an evil lich Sandro (game info).

Mac OS 8.1 or later, RAM 64 MB or larger, free HD 225 MB or larger, CD-ROM 4x or faster, modem 28.8 kbps or faster, QuickTime 3 or later (QuickTime 4 included), GameSprockets included. Also, it supports GameRanger online gaming service. Available at retail stores in USA or directly for $39.95 only in USA or Canada.
Driver Released: MacSoft has released Driver. Driver (developer: Reflections Interactive, porting: Abersoft) is a 3D driving arcade game set in 4 different cities in the USA where player, as an undercover cop, carries a variety of 40 criminal driving missions such as pursuit and gateway (game info). It also includes various other game modes such as Take A Ride to drive freely in the cities, Driving Games to play 7 unique games, and Training to get basic driving techniques, and features realistic 3D street maps, dynamic physical modeling for exciting stunt actions, Film Director to edit replay scenes with various camera modes. Requires PowerPC G3 or better (iMac Rev. B or later and iBook supported), Mac OS 8.6 or later, RAM 64 MB or larger, virtual memory 128 MB or larger, CD-ROM, ATI Rage Pro or better supported, InputSprocket supported. Available at retail stores in USA. Also, a demo version is available with file size 31.8 MB (more info).
Next Generation Breakout Arcade "Colibricks": Michel Colman has released Colibricks. Colibricks is an enhanced Breakout arcade game with full of unique levels and items. The game contains unique 50 levels with a variety of bricks such as protected bricks, movable bricks, 11 different special effect bricks, and 16 different bonus bricks, as well as brand-new archer bricks. File size is 2.1 MB (more info). Requires PowerPC 603e/200 MHz or faster (iMac, iBook supported), System 7.0 or later, free memory 12 MB or larger. Shareware $16.
Epic Fantasy Role Playing Game "Avernum 2": SpiderWeb Software has released Avernum 2. Avernum 2 is a fantasy role playing game that is the enhanced version of Exile II: Crystal Souls and a sequel to already-released Avernum. In the game, the player, as a young soldier explores unknown realms of his home underworld called Avernum in order to find out the chance to defeat the invading Empire forces. It contains a lot of towns and dungeons maps, the attracting epic story, a variety of characters and events. Also, it features sophisticated game engine like as the first installment, which includes elaborated isometric 3D graphics and speedy operation supporting both mouse and keyboard. File size is 9.2 MB. Requires PowerPC, free memory 10 MB or larger, free HD 20 MB or larger, 800 x 600/32,000 colors or better recommended. Shareware $25. (Source: IMG and others)
Game Updates (World-Wide): -- Diablo II 1.04 (Blizzard Entertainment): Sequel to the popular realtime dark fantasy role playing adventure game featuring five new character classes and vast world with 4 towns and a lot of dungeons. Version 1.04 includes many improvements and fixes related to Battle.net and others. Updater size is 3.7 MB (more info).

12/29/00 (Fri)

Simple Satilical Role Playing Adventure "Heisei Warashibe Choja: Sayanara 20-seiki Special": Kijibato has released Heisei Warashibe Choja: Sayanara 20-seiki Special*. It is simple role playing adventure game where player explores a country of the present-time to obtain wealth and fame. It features humorous story with full of satire and parody of present Japan. File size is 450 KB. Requires PowerPC. Freeware. Japanese software.
Unique Pig Bleeding Game "Medal Mania: Fat Pig": Candy House has released Medal Mania: Fat Pig. Medal Mania: Fat Pig (file name: "MedalManiaFp") is a unique hamster bleeding simulation game where player gets feeds for the pigs by winning other MedalMania Series games. File size is 138 KB. Requires Mac OS 7.6 or later. Freeware. Japanese software.
Small Utility and Game Software Collection "Counter Mania": Takeshi Sakai* has released Counter Mania*. Counter Mania is a small software collection with theme of counters and timers including 5 utilities and 2 mini games. It contains Time Bomb game to neutralize a bomb in a time and Bird Count game to guess the number of birds in the screen, as well as variety of unique counter and timer utilities. File size is 462 KB*. Japanese System 7.1 or later, free memory 8 MB or larger, free HD 1.1 MB or larger, 256 colors or better. Freeware or voluntary shareware distributed only in the author's site. Japanese software.
Role Playing Arcade Game "Secret Christmas": Takeshi Sakai* has released Secret Christmas*. Secret Christmas his a simple role playing arcade game where player, as a little boy, waits till Santa Claus comes in the Christmas night. Santa comes and gives a variety of presents when a certain condition has been met. File size is 1.4 MB*. Japanese System 7.1 or later, free memory 8 MB or larger, free HD 2.2 MB or larger, 256 colors or better. Freeware or voluntary shareware. Japanese software.
Game Updates (World-Wide): -- Clan Lord v161 (Delta Tao Software): Online fantasy role playing game focused on collaboration and chatting. Full version size is 27.0 MB, updater from CD-ROM version is 12.5 MB, updater from version v159 is 678 KB.

-- Xconq 7.4.1 (Stanley T. Shebs): Full-featured general-purpose strategic war simulation game system. Version 7.4.1 enhanced the game engine, improves the interface, and adds new game scenarios. File size is 3.6 MB. Freeware.
Game Updates (Japanese): -- UCHU-JIN SHINRYAKU 2000 1.2.1* (HEISEI GAME NAGAYA*): Enhanced version of the unique Invaders-type shooting game. Version 1.2.1 no longer switches the resolution. File size is 190 KB*. Freeware. Japanese software.

-- Onsen 1.0.1 (Candy House): Simple arcade game to play table tennis by key typing (file name: "Onsen"). Version 1.0.1 is now compatible with MedalMania Series and allows to bet coins on the games. File size is 572 KB. Shareware ¥1,000 (¥1,100 for online registration*). Japanese software.

12/27/00 (Wed)

Game Demos (World-Wide): -- Kawasaki JET SKI watercraft (Monkey Byte Development): 3D water racing arcade game of Kawasaki JET SKI. Demo size is 18.3 MB. Preorder of full retail version is available for $24.95. Expected soon.

-- Majesty (MacPlay): Fantasy strategy simulation game where player, as a king, manages a Kingdom and challenges various quests. Demo size is 32.3 MB (more info). Full retail version is available at retail stores in USA.

-- Monkey Shines 2: Gorilla Warfare (Fantasoft): Enhanced sequel to 2D arcade game where a monkey explores mazes with full of traps. Demo size is 8.7 MB. Full retail version is expected to be released directly in January.

-- Quake III: Team Arena (id Software): Team play-oriented expansion pack for the high-spec 3D first person shooting game. Demo size is 120.7 MB. Full retail version is expected soon.

-- Rogue Spear (MacSoft): Enhanced sequel to the anti terrorism 3D action strategy game based on Tom Clancy's fiction "Rainbow Six". Demo size is 54.4 MB (more info). Full retail version is expected soon.

-- SimTheme Park (Aspyr Media): Total theme park simulation game where player creates and manages a theme park as well as enjoys various rides (UK title "Theme Park World"). Demo size is 53.8 MB (more info). Full retal version is available at retal stores in USA or directly for $34.95.

-- Sin Gold (MacPlay): Near-future 3D first person action adventure game featuring character-diven nonlinear woven story and high quality 3D graphics using Quake II engine. Demo size is 61 MB (more info). Full retail version is available at retail stores in USA.

-- Star Trek Voyager: Elite Force (Aspyr Media): Mission-oriented sci-fi 3D first person action adventure based on the Star Trek: Voyager universe. Size of Single-Player Demo is 114.9 MB, Multi-Player Demo is 29.6 MB (more info). Full retal version is available at retail stores in USA or directly for $49.95.

-- WaterRace (French Touch Software): 3D motor boat racing game. Demo size is 23.7 MB (more info). Full retal version is available directly for $32.

-- Oni (Gathering of Developers): Near-feature sci-fi 3D shooting/fighting hybrid action game featuring Japanese anime-style character Konoko. Demo size is 75.6 MB (more info). Full retail version is expected soon.
Game Updates (World-Wide): -- boogaloopers 2.0 (Monkey Byte Development): New type 2D space arcade game where player controls space ship and captures energy ball called Boogas File size is 2.3 MB. Shareware $10.

-- Bub & Bob 1.7 (Sebastian Wegner): 2D arcade game like Bubble Bobble Version 1.7 changes the music to QuickTime MIDI, adds sound volume setting, adds Italian interface, and fixes a bug with character drawing. File size is 1.3 MB (more info). Shareware $20.

-- Championship Manager 00/01 3.88 (Feral Interactive): Enhanced 2000/2001 season version of the realistic data-oriented international soccer management simulation game. Version 3.88 includes improvements and fixes with the simulation and updated the database take account of recent transfers. Size of updater with data is 11.2 MB, updater without data is 897 KB (more info).

-- Christmas Super Frog 1.1 (Koingo Software): Simple Frog arcade arcade game with the theme of Christmas. Version 1.1 includes small improvements and fixes. File size is 608 KB.

-- Cro-Mag Rally 1.0.6 (Pangea Software): Unique 3D racing arcade game where humorous cavemen take battles with various primitive racing machines and courses. Version 1.0.6 improves memory handling with RAM 64 MB, fixes problem with some 3Dfx cards, and fixes some other bugs. Updater size is 299 KB (more info). Also, the demo version has been updated with full version size 40.5 MB (more info), demo updater size 296 KB (more info).

-- David's Backgammon 3.9.4 (David Byrum): Backgammon game with many features and options. Version 3.9.4 fixes a bug with a Automatically Move mode. File size is 402 KB. Shareware $20 ($22 for online registration).

-- DopeWars 4.1 (Likely Software): Data-oriented simulation game of illegal drug trading. Version 4.1 improves the price list and fixes some bugs with the gun fighting and the high scores. File size is 1.1 MB. Shareware $5.

-- Galactic Patrol 1.6 (Monkey Byte Development): Galaxian-style 2D/3D hybrid shooting arcade game. Version 1.6 includes improvements and fixes with the joystick usage and others. File size is 2.8 MB. Shareware $15.

-- GameRanger Rogue Spear Demo, Star Trek- Elite Force Demo, Rune, Rune Demo Plug-in (Scott Kevill): Rogue Spear Demo, Star Trek Voyager: Elite Force Demo, Rune, and Rune Demo plug-ins 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). Freeware.

-- Grandeur 1.0f6 (Orbiter Productions): Full-featured generic role playing game engine and scenario editing tool. Version 1.0f6 adds some features and includes improvements and fixes. File size is 4.8 MB (more info). Public beta version but users must donate $15 to a charity (Charityware).

-- Hang2000 1.7.3 (Space-Time Associates): Newest version of popular word game Hangman featuring color graphics, speech synthesizer, various new categories. Version 1.7.3 adds the results of the latest USA Presidential Election to the Presidents and Vice Presidents categories. File size is 420 KB. Shareware $20.

-- Harpoon3 3.3.1 (Advanced Gaming Systems): The newest version of popular modern naval war simulation game. Version 3.3.1 supports 1/60 screen update and adds an option to set the Minimum Update Delay. Updater from version 3.1.x or earlier is 1.3 MB, updater from version 3.2.0 or later is 1.3 MB, updater from version 3.3.0 is 129 KB (more info). Also, the demo version has been updated with file size 9.6 MB.

-- Mac500 1.1 (David J. Risvold): Card game to play Five Hundred game with computer players. Version 1.1 improves the computer routine, supports raises, and fixes some bugs in suggestions routines. File size is 1.8 MB. Shareware $10.

-- Plunk! 1.5 (Black Magik Software): Puzzle game like popular Macigame featuring as many as 13 beautiful themes and various options. File size is 2.2 MB. Shareware $19.95.

-- Presidents3000 1.03 (Space-Time Associates): Variation of the popular word-guessing game Hang2000 with questions about Presidents of the USA. Version 1.03 adds the results of the latest USA Presidential Election and correct some errors in the Vice Presidential info. File size is 932 KB. Shareware $20.

-- Quake III Arena 1.27 Beta (id Software): Newest installment of the high-featured 3D first person shooting series focused on exciting death match games. Version 1.27 Beta now supports network protocol 45, removes CD check at startup, improves the bot AI's, and includes many other improvements and fixes. Updater size is 17.7 MB. Beta updater.

-- Roidz 0.9a (Dan Carter): Asteroids-type shooting arcade game. Version 0.9a fixes several bugs. File size is 681 KB. Freeware.

-- Sentinels of Ceth 2.0 (Monkey Byte Development): Sci-fi 2D shooting arcade game where player protects Gems in a temple from enemies. File size is 4.1 MB. Shareware $15.

-- Solitaire Till Dawn 4.0 (Semicolon Software): Full-featured solitaire card game collection including 40 games. Version 4.0 Adds new 6 games, adds new screen options, allow to highlight movable cards, improves the sound effects, and includes other improvements and fixes. File size is 1.7 MB (more info). Shareware $20.

-- The Sims 1.1.3 (Aspyr Media): Home management simulation game where player as a person to make a living by getting a job, having family, and other events. Version 1.1.3 reduces memory usage under OpenGL 1.2 or later and fixes several other bugs. Updater size is 975 KB (more info).

-- Theme Park World/SimTheme Park Beta Patch (Feral Interactive): Temporary patch for the total theme park simulation game where player creates and manages a theme park as well as enjoys various rides. The Beta Patch fixes a startup error with message "Error: Engine failed to initialise" on a certain configuration. File size is 247 KB (more info).

-- TurtleRace 2.5 (Duckbert Graphics): Simple game to bet on the turtle race. Version 2.5 adds bet options and includes some other improvements. File size is 532 KB (more info). Freeware.

12/14/00 (Thu)

Space Tactical Simulation "Naumachia": APO Games has released Naumachia. Naumachia is a turn-based sci-fi tactical-level space war simulation game where player, as a mercenary, fights against pirates through upgrading the ships and summon allies using credits. The game play is simple but strategically deep which requires tactics on movements and attacks. It includes Standard Campaign with 16 missions and Random Generator to set up unique games as well as built-in editor to create external scenarios. File size is 4.7 MB. Requires PowerPC (G3 or better recommended), System 7.5 or later, RAM 12 MB or larger, DrawSprocket. Shareware $15. (Source: MacUpdate.com)
Fantasy Kingdom Simulation Game "Majesty" Released: MacPlay (United Developers) has released Majesty. Majesty (developer: Cyberlore Studios, PC version publisher: Hasbro Interactive) is a Kingdom management strategy simulation game set in a fantasy world where player, as a King, challenges various royal quests through recruiting heroes and build facilities (game info). The game features 16 different classes of heroes who acts autonomously with sophisticated AI, 32 different enemy monsters, 19 quests to solve, as many as 30 different types of buildings, powerful Magic to help the Kingdom, and a variety of reward flags to encourage heroes. Also, it supports net connection for head-to-head or alliance play and online play using GameRanger. Requires PowerPC/233 MHz or faster (350 MHz or faster recommended), Mac OS 9 or later (also Mac OS 8.6 supported), RAM 64 MB or larger (128 MB or larger recommended), GameSprockets 1.7.5 or later included. Available at retail stores in USA.
Soccer Simulation Game "Championship Manager 00/01" Released: Feral Interactive has released Championship Manager 00/01. Championship Manager 00/01 (developer: Sports Interactive, PC version publisher: Eidos Interactive, porting: Elegant Chaos) is a realistic data-oriented international soccer management simulation game includes accurate data of real-world's soccer leagues around the world (game info). The latest 00/01 edition supports newest 2000/2001 data including Olympic Games, and features league data of as many as 26 countries, individual data of as many as 50,000 players, managers, and coaches, and new enhancements such as random fictional players and data feadbacks. Requires PowerPC/120 MHz or faster (PowerPC G3/233 MHz or better recommended), Mac OS 8 or later (Mac OS 9 or later recommended), RAM 32 MB or larger, virtual memory 96 MB or larger, free HD 120 MB or larger, 800 x 600/32,000 colors or better, CD-ROM. Available at retail stores in UK or directly for $40 including shipping. Also, demo version is available with file size 12.9 MB (more info).
Tile-removing Puzzle Game "BubbleX": Mike Margolis has released BubbleX. BubbleX is a simple puzzle game like popular Macigame where player finds and removes groups of same tiles. The game includes 4 difficulty levels, 4 board sizes, and unique Mystery Bubbles that can be used to make groups with any tiles. Also, it supports theme plug-ins called Skins. File size is 106 KB. Requires PowerPC, Mac OS 8.6 or later, CarbonLib. Maybe freeware. (Source: VersionTracker.com)
Game Updates (World-Wide): -- Clan Lord v159 (Delta Tao Software): Online fantasy role playing game focused on collaboration and chatting. Full version size is 26.8 MB, updater from CD-ROM version is 12.2 MB, updater from version v157 is 867 KB.

-- TakeAway! 1.7 (HowleWere): Shanghai-type tile matching puzzle game. Version 1.7 adds animation effects, new themes, and new layouts, and includes several improvements and fixes. Updater for PowerPC is 2.1 MB, 68K is 2.1 MB. Also, the demo version has been updated with file size 2.4 MB for PowerPC and 2.4 MB for 68K.

12/13/00 (Wed)

Rubber Band Shooting Gallery Arcade Game "Wa-gomme Ho": Kiyoshi Takeuchi* has released Wa-gomme Ho*. Wa-gomme Ho is a unique shooting gallery arcade game using rubber bands. It features simple but delicate operation with mouse drag. File size is 828 KB* (more info*). Freeware.
Japanese Dice Game "Nyanchirorin": Karayan* has released Nyanchirorin*. Nyanchirorin is a dice game based on Chinchirorin, a Japanese classic dice game using 3 dices to bet points like the manner of Black Jack. The game supports several bonus hands such as 456 and Arashi. File size is 908 KB*. Shareware* ¥1,000.
Melody Construction Puzzle Game "SoundPanels": GIZMo* has released SoundPanels*. SoundPanels is a unique puzzle game with the theme of music where player construct a complete music phrase by choosing proper panels with various melody fragments. The game consists of 3 x 3 mode for beginners and 4 x 4 mode for expert and includes 20 puzzles in each modes. File size is 433 KB*. Shareware* ¥500.
Sid Meier's Alpha Centauri with Japanese Manual Released: JapanCentral.com* has released Sid Meier's Alpha Centauri with Japanese Manual*. Sid Meier's Alpha Centauri (developer: Firaxis Games, PC version publisher: Electronic Arts, porting: Westlake Interactive, USA version publisher: Aspyr Media) is a turn-based strategic-class sci-fi political management and space conquest simulation game set in a space colony of Alpha Centauri system in 22nd century. Requires PowerPC 603e/150 MHz or better (iMac supported), Mac OS 8 or later, RAM 64 MB or larger, color monitor 800 x 600 or larger, CD-ROM 4x or faster, QuickTime 4 or later (included). Available directly* for $29.95. The software has already been updated to version 1.5 with updater size 1.5 MB*. Also, a demo version is available with file size 23.7 MB*.
Impressive Interactive Adventure Game "- MODERATO -": U-GI SOFTWARE* has released - MODERATO -*. - MODERATO - is a multi story interactive adventure game where a player visits a forest village and reveals the past of himself through events and conversations with a blind girl. It features unique characters, mysterious stories with theme of lost memory, and beautiful graphics like impressionism. The story is varying drastically according to player's choices in the game. File size is 4.8 MB*. Freeware.
Dancing Arcade Game "Dance Mix Kisakimon": Kisaki* has released Dance Mix Kisakimon*. Dance Mix Kisakimon is a music arcade-like dancing game where player hit buttons according to the music while a character performs a unique dance. It is a simple game but player can challenge a special bonus stage. File size is 326 KB*. Freeware.
Catching Arcade Game "A HAPPY PIERROT-KUN": M-WAY'S* has released A HAPPY PIERROT-KUN*. A HAPPY PIERROT-KUN is a unique catching arcade game where player controls a little pierrot and collects coins to play a slot machine while avoiding other objects. The goal of each level is to collect certain number of balls offered by the slot machine. The game play is simple but difficult due to simultaneous action and slot play. File size is 555 KB* (more info*). Requires PowerPC, Japanese System 7.5 or later, free memory 6 MB or larger, 256 colors or better. Freeware but users must register.
New 7 Titles of Low-priced CD-ROM Series Released: Sony Music Entertainment (Japan) has released 7 new game titles of SHOCK PRICE 500 Series and Happy Net 1000 Series. SHOCK PRICE 500 Series is a line of low priced game CD-ROMs consists of many casual games. Following titles are newly released:

-- TENPAI*: Unique Mah-Jongg puzzle game where player choose a tile to complete the hand in the official Mah-Jongg rule.
-- SHATEKI*: Shooting gallery arcade game including 5 different game modes.
-- GEKICHIN!*: Entertaining arcade game where the player control a destroyer ship to defeat submarines.
-- KICK KICK KICK*: Unique arcade game based on Japanese traditional field game where player catches enemies coming to attack the base can.

Happy Net 1000 Series is a line of low-priced game CD-ROMs featuring various dedicated online services such as online play and net ranking. Following titles are newly released:

-- Jong Plugged*: Simple Mah-Jongg game supporting Jong Plugged online game service.
-- Typing Hero*: Unique card battle-style typing arcade game supporting LAN or net play.
-- Escape!*: Dungeon-exploration arcade game supporting additional hints and levels on the net.

Each available as hybrid CD-ROM at retail stores in Japan. Japanese softwares.
Game Demos (World-Wide): -- Maximum Pool Mac OS X Beta Demo (Sierra Sports): Mac OS X Public Beta-compatible version demo of the 3D variety pool game collection. Demo size is 15.0 MB (more info). Requires CarbonLib 1.1 or later, or Mac OS X Public Beta. Full retail version is available at retail stores in USA or directly for $29.95.
Game Updates (World-Wide): -- GameRanger Majesty, SiN, Wages of SiN Plug-ins (Scott Kevill): Majesty and Sin Gold plug-ins 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). Freeware.
Game Updates (Japanese): -- JANKEN Game 0.0.4* (Yoshiaki Hosoi*): Unique tile puzzle game where player removes all but last one tiles with the rule of Paper, Stone, and Scissors. Version 0.0.4 allows to customize the icon graphics and includes some improvements and fixes in the high score display and others. File size is 417 KB* (more info*). Freeware but users are recommended to visit the Amacre home page*. Japanese software.

12/12/00 (Tue)

Game Demos (World-Wide): -- Rune (Human Head Studios): 3D epic fantasy action adventure set in Viking era. Demo size is 80.3 MB (more info). Full retail version is available at retail stores in USA or directly for $39.99.
Game Updates (World-Wide): -- Grandeur 1.0f5b (Orbiter Productions): Full-featured generic role playing game engine and scenario editing tool. Version 1.0f5b now includes the Scenario Toolbox and fixes a bug with the program quitting. File size is 4.8 MB (more info). The Grandeur Scenario Toolbox included in the full version has been updated to version 1.7 and updater from previous version is also available with file size 74 KB. Public beta version but users must donate $15 to a charity (Charityware).

-- HMS Freeverse 1.4.3 (Freeverse Software): Libraries update for online games from Freeverse Software. Version 1.4.3 enhances the user information display, adds private chat, mute options, paging, and others, and includes other improvements and fixes. File size is 699 KB.

-- Snood 2.11 (Dave Dobson): Puzzle Bobblo-type arcade game where player shoots icons to drop groups of the same ones. Version 2.11 fixes bugs with the volume setting and the editor. File size is 619 KB (more info). Shareware $14.95 or more (price has changed from this version).

-- X-Plane 5.54 (Laminar Research): Full-featured general flight simulator with high-quality texture graphics. Version 5.54 now supports multiplayer via the Internet and multiple view by connecting multiple computers, improves visuals such as weather expressions, the flight model, and the drawing performance, and includes many other improvements and fixes. Demo/upgrade file size is 68.8 MB (more info), updater is 22.3 MB, small updater from version 5.53 is 1,005 KB (more info).
Game Updates (Japanese): -- exit repeat 1.7.2* (Hiraring*): 3D dungeon role playing game stack featuring unique synthetic upgrade system of items and/or spells. Version 1.7.2 adds a strategy reference. File size is 426 KB*. Freeware. Japanese software.

-- Kuru Kuru Sushi Ogui Battle 1.0.1 (Candy House): Unique puzzle arcade game where player takes sushis to line up 4 pieces of same topping vertically. Version 1.0.1 is now compatible with MedalMania Series and allows to bet coins on the heavy-eater competition. . Shareware ¥1,000. Japanese software.

-- MedalMania: Bakuretsu Musume 1.0.2 (Candy House): Enhanced Coin-pusher arcade game with a unique jackpot system. Version 1.0.2 fixes a bug with the progress board display.. Shareware ¥1,000. Japanese software.

-- Mikirino Tatsujin 1.5* (Hiraring*): Simple simulation-oriented fighting arcade game stack where player uses 6 different attacks with the effective distances. Version 1.5 improves the performance. File size is 173 KB*. Freeware. Japanese software.

12/7/00 (Thu)

Game Demos (World-Wide): -- Driver (MacSoft): Car chasing arcade game set in 4 major USA cities with very realistic landscape graphics and detailed street maps. Demo size is 31.8 MB (more info). Full retail version expected to be released soon. (Source: MacGameFiles.com)

-- WaterRace (French Touch Software): 3D motor boat racing game. Demo size is 17.2 MB (more info). Preorder of the full retail version is available for special price $27. Expected in early-December.
Game Updates (World-Wide): -- 8-Ball Emulator X (Scott Knudsen): Simple 2D pool game. Version X includes several improvements and fixes. File size is 262 KB. Shareware $15.

-- Cro-Mag Rally 1.0.5 (Pangea Software): Unique 3D racing arcade game where humorous cavemen take battles with various primitive racing machines and courses. Version 1.0.5 improves screen drawing with OpenGL 1.2 and fixes problem with OpenGL 1.1.2. Updater size is 298 KB (more info). Also, the demo version has been updated with full version size 40.5 MB (more info) and demo updater size 295 KB (more info).

-- Exult 0.9.0 alpha1 (Exult Development Team): Unofficial Mac port updater for Ultima 7 PC version. File size is 382 KB (more info). Public alpha version.

-- GLHexen 2 0.8.1 (pOx): Unofficial Mac port updater for Hexen 2 PC version. Version 0.8.1 fixes some problems such as crashes. File size for retail version is 805 KB (more info), for Portal of Praevus Mission Pack is 319 KB (more info). Also, the demo version has been updated with full version size 13.2 MB (more info), demo updater size 319 KB (more info). Freeware.

-- Grandeur 1.0f5 (Orbiter Productions): Full-featured generic role playing game engine and scenario editing tool. Version 1.0f5 includes several improvements and fixes. File size is 4.8 MB (more info). Also, the Scenario Toolbox has been updated to version 1.6 with file size 2.7 MB. Public beta version but users must donate $15 to a charity (Charityware).
Followup: As of December 12, Grandeur has been updated to version 1.0f5b.

-- Monkey Shines 1.2.2 (Fantasoft): 2D arcade game where a monkey explores unique mazes. Version 1.2.2 fixes freezes at game start. Updater size is 2.8 MB. Shareware $20.
Game Updates (Japanese): -- moveMove 1.5* (Nontan): Simple sliding puzzle game with picture import and various options. Version 1.5 adds fixed tile mode and tile finder, and includes other improvements and fixes. File size is 721 KB* (more info*). Shareware ¥500. Japanese software. English version is available for registered users.

-- Tenka Fubu: Dai 2-bu 1.0.1* (Yoshihiro Tanaka*): Enhanced sequel to the simple conquest simulation game set in the age of old Japanese Civil Wars where player conquers the whole Japan. File size is 2.7 MB*. Shareware ¥1,500. Japanese software.

-- Tenkibu Bodo Game 3.4* (Kohei Natori*): Hilarious strategy board game stack set in a high school. Version 3.4 enhances the plug-in support and includes other improvements. File size is 369 KB* (more info*). Freeware. Japanese software.

-- Kazemakase 1.1.1* (Kiyoshi Takeuchi*): Simple 2D hot-air balloon simulator arcade game where player controls a ballon by the torch to move to and land on the goal. Version 1.1.1 includes some improvements and fixes. File size is 840 KB* (more info*). Freeware. Japanese software.

-- Mah Jong B-ROOM 1.2* (Yoshiro Kato*): Full-featured Mah Jong game with various options and high quality character animation. Version 1.2 supports 800 x 600 screen, adds some animation, and includes other improvements and fixes. File size is 2.9 MB* (more info*). Shareware* ¥2,000. Japanese software.

12/4/00 (Mon)

Game Updates (World-Wide): -- Klondike 7.6.2 (Michael A. Casteel): Famous classic solitaire card game collection including 4 games. Version 7.6.2 improves compatibility with Mac OS X and fixes several bugs. File size is 224 KB. Shareware $10.

-- Planetary Conquest 1.6 (AvisNocturna): Networkable turn-based full 3D sci-fi strategy game. Version 1.6 adds tutorial game and combat only game, adds new units and buildings, adds new effects in the game screen, improves the interface, and includes many other improvements and fixes. Updater size is 3.5 MB (more info). Also, the demo version has been updated with full version file size 3.5 MB (more info).

-- Screamer 1.0 (build 55) (William): Full-featured Chess program with variable hash table and AppleEvent support. Version 1.0 (build 55) supports automatic preference save, adds a faster computer algorism option (Aggressive Search), and includes other improvements and fixes. File size is 1.4 MB. Also from this version, the larger opening book file is available with file size 2.1 MB. Freeware.

-- Sigma Chess 5.1.2 (Sigma GameWare): Professional chess program. Version 5.1.2 adds data from World Championship Match and fixes some bugs. Full version size is 1.9 MB (more info), updater is 900 KB (more info). Shareware $15.