The Future - July Issue

store.gem.co.uk | July 2013

CONTENTS 05 EDITOR’S COMMENT

Faye Le Duc introduces the July edition of The Future

06 WE WANT ONE

Ultra responsive and perfect for fast paced online gaming it’s the Black Ops 2 gaming mouse

07 GEM NEWS

Announcing all Gems exclusive offers and news throughout July

11 Q&A

Introducing Nationals Account manager Robert Bailey

15 OTONE

Premium home audio, docking and portable speaker solutions from OTONE

18 DGM

DGM showcase their outstanding range of tablets

21 STEELSERIES

Get immersed into the game with the premium gaming essentials from SteelSeries

25 MAXELL

Make the most of music with Maxell Bluetooth portable speakers

26 XBOX ONE

Gem are pleased to announce the long awaited and highly anticipated new Xbox, we round up what you need to know

29 THE BUREAU: XCOM DECLASSIFIED

During the era of the cold war, a secret government agency called The Bureau battles and covers up an alien invasion in this cross-breed of action and strategy

33 UBISOFT

Sam Fisher returns in the covert action title Splinter Cell Blacklist

34 GAMING CHARTS

Gem’s ‘Hot Picks’, a handy not-to-be-missed feature to help you make the most of your gaming range

www.facebook.com/gemgroup

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03

COMEDITOR’S editor’s comment

to find out more

Welcome to the July issue of Future Magazine!

Every year, the E3 expo in LA promises an action packed week of announcements which pave the way of the gaming landscape for the remainder of the year, and this year was no different. The excitement of the new Xbox One has exploded at Gem; the new console promises to deliver outstanding technology with an abundance of epic games. There’s plenty of content in this month’s magazine to tell you everything you need to know.

Faye Le Duc PR & Marketing Manager

As well as Microsoft’s new console, our gaming publishers unveiled a number of key releases set to launch later this year including Ubisoft’s Watch Dogs, which is destined to become one of the top games of 2013, and Splinter Cell: Blacklist which will take espionage action to new heights when it launches next month.

You can read more about Splinter Cell on pages 32 and 33.

Meanwhile, our consumer electronics category is going from strength to strength.

Maxell have just confirmed Gem as their new distribution partner for the UK which will bring an assortment of products from Bluetooth speakers to funky headphones which will offer even more choice when reviewing your range.

Check out page 24 to see some of the products on offer from Maxell.

Gem is fortunate to carry a wide variety of leading Internet Security brands offering you more choice when it comes to buying in products your customers can trust. This month we have some great offers on McAfee and Symantec giving you the chance to save between 30% and 40% on some products within their ranges.

Plans are well under way for the annual back to school promotion which kicks off soon, boasting not-to-be-missed deals and offers for you to take advantage of in the build-up to the new school term. The promotion will run over 2 separate weeks, so if you want to replenish the great bargains, you’ll have another opportunity later in the month. Email online@gem.co.uk to register for e-shots.

Happy reading!

Faye Managing Editor Faye Le Duc

Publisher Gem Creative

Editorial Assistant Brendan Adams

Gem Distribution Ltd St. George House, Parkway Harlow Business Park, Harlow, Essex, CM19 5QF

Design Sophie Hammond Amber-sky Watts Web Executive Peter Cox Gaming Editor Kristan Reed

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Head of Marketing Katie Rawlings

Contact Details Telephone Office: +44 01279 822800 Sales: +44 01279 822822 Facsimile Office: +44 01279 416228 Sales: +44 01279 412604 To place an order please call 01279 822822 between 9am-6pm Monday-Friday, or visit store.gem.co.uk to buy online* To open an account please visit ww.gem.co.uk or call our new accounts team on 01279 822800. *Trade account required.

Printed in the uk by Cadmium Multimedia www.cadmiummultimedia.co.uk

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05

we want one

SteelSeries

Call of Duty Black Ops II Gaming Mouse Based on the SteelSeries Sensei, the most award-winning and critically acclaimed gaming mouse in history, the Call of Duty Black Ops II Gaming Mouse delivers gamers tournament-grade components, brilliant orange illumination, 7 programmable buttons, gaming grade feet and support of the SteelSeries Engine.

Straight out of the box it operates awlessly with the default settings. But for players demanding a little more, the SteelSeries Engine enhances the mouse with advanced customisation options like CPI settings, programmable buttons, LED intensity and lighting modes.

A state-of-the-art laser sensor offers a consistent and reliable performance, boasting a 10.8-megapixel HD image correlation with up to 12,000 frames per second and the ability to handle tracking movements of up to 150 inches per second.

To ensure smooth gliding, high performance UPE material covers 16% of the mouse bottom.

This gaming mouse delivers everything necessary to dominate the competition.

i

For more information on SteelSeries, contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or go online at store.gem.co.uk

EDITOR’S gem news

Gem News Promotions at Gem

New Xbox 360 model available now from Gem!

Don’t miss out on some of the very best promotions and offers throughout July. To discover what’s available in this month issue just keep reading.

In a surprise announcement at E3, Microsoft unveiled a brand new Xbox 360 design that sports a "sleek and stylish" look and feel that brings together the entire family of Xbox products. The new slimmer, sleeker version of the refreshed Xbox 4Gb and 250Gb Console’s will remain part of the mainstay offering available to customers.

Neat and extremely portable, the Microsoft Express Mouse features three customizable buttons and with BlueTrack technology, works on almost any surface. Now save 50% on this great little looker.

Turn to page 23 to find out more information.

In addition, Microsoft will also bring two games per month, completely free of charge, to Xbox Live Gold members including Assassins Creed II and Halo 3; giving you more reason than ever to stock the Xbox Live memberships as part of your Xbox offering.

The new 4Gb console is available now for the same great prices as the previous model, with the 250Gb coming soon.

New! Protect your business range from Norton™ - Save up to 30%

McAfee Total Protection 2013, the ultimate award winning security for 3 PC’s is now offering a massive 43% off to Gem customers. Turn to page 4 to find out more information.

Logitech is offering great savings on top selected lines while stocks last. Save up to 35% on products like the Z515 wireless speaker in these scorching summer deals. Turn to page 17 to find out more information.

Your customers have worked hard to build up their businesses, so why would you let them fall victim to the latest online threats and cybercrime? The new ‘Protect your business’ range from Norton by Symantec offers a range of new solutions specifically designed to protect all the connected devices your customers use to complete everyday tasks.

Your small business customers can now choose from the following: Norton Internet Security to protect up to 5 PCs PC protection from online threats and viruse.

Norton Internet Security to protect up to 5 PC’s + Norton Anti-Theft for up to 5 devices, including Windows® laptops, MacBook® laptops and Android™ smartphones and tablets - Complete protection against online threats, viruses and device loss or theft. Ideal for businesses that are on the go with laptops, mobiles and tablets.

Norton 360 Multi Device for up to 10 devices Comprehensive online protection for PCs, laptops, smartphones and tablets against online threats and viruses. Plus, includes Anti-Theft functionality for Android devices. Ideal for businesses that use a combination of devices that they can protect with a single, integrated solution.

The complete ‘Protect your business’ range from Norton by Symantec is available from Gem today!

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Digital Storage on the move Ultimate performance with remarkable reliability

FEATURES & BENEFITS • • • • • • •

Sequential read up to 300 MB/s Sequential write up to 160 MB/s USB 3.0 SuperSpeed interface Shock and vibration resistant Plug and Play - No software installation needed Comes equipped with Lock Software for password protection USB 3.0 cable included - no external power supply required

Webcode: T79081 Webcode: T79082 Webcode: T79083 Webcode: T79084

Black 128GB White 128GB Black 256GB White 256GB

£153.99 £153.99 £282.99 £282.99

new to us

to find out more

Electronic innovation Gem is delighted to welcome Maxell, a global manufacturer of consumer electronics, to enhance their range of consumer devices and accessories.

With their outstanding reputation for excellence and reliability, the collaboration with Maxell will see Gem offering a diverse range of products from the electronics manufacturer. This includes an excellent range of Bluetooth speakers, headphones and vibrant earphones to suit today’s lifestyle focussed consumer.

The product offering from Maxell will compliment Gem’s audio category perfectly, creating a stronger line-up of accessories to offer Gem’s loyal customers. “Maxell is a firmly established brand that has a reputation for developing innovative and quality products at competitive prices, so naturally we are thrilled with the opportunity to represent the Maxell brand as they continue to develop and grow their presence in the UK” says Anthony Haworth, Commercial Director for Gem Distribution.

i TO BUY ONLINE store.gem.co.uk

For more information on Maxell, contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or go online at store.gem.co.uk

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09

Q&A

Follow Gem for the latest news & updates

Introducing Robert Bailey

Future spotlights the Nationals Account Manager and talks to him about his time at Gem As the Nationals Account Manager for Gem; can you tell us more about what your role entails?

It is my responsibility to ensure that all of my accounts are fully aware of Gem’s plethora of diverse products and ever-growing services. Strong relationships and the construction of ranges to best serve each individual account are both key to increasing sales for Gem and our customers whilst limiting any potential risks.

You’ve been with Gem for a number of years and seen many changes happen, what would you like to see happen next?

It’s refreshing to see Gem adding new service offerings, creating opportunities to expand into other areas and new markets. The addition of new, more diverse vendors strengthens our product range across multiple categories which I hope will continue to grow.

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What has been the highlight of your career with Gem? Looking after a new team who are driven and focussed on maximising the potential of the independent channel has and will continue to be a highlight of my career. Being the official distributor for the imminent launch of Xbox One will no doubt bring more highlights in the years to come.

What would your colleagues say about you?

Hard working, loves banter and dedicated.

Describe yourself in 3 words Outgoing, confident, hairy Tell us a joke 2 gold fish in a tank, one turns to the other and says “how do you drive this?”

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E3 Highlights 2013 The next generation consoles might have dominated the headlines at this year's E3, but there were plenty of games across all platforms to get pulses racing. Kristan Reed looks back on the highlights of the showcase event.

UBISOFT The French giant sprang out of the traps with one of the strongest line-ups at the show, with a genre-straddling array of titles across all major platforms.

NEW BLOCKBUSTER INCOMING After its debut at last year's show, the latest stunning footage of Watch Dogs underlined that this stealth action title is destined to be one of the biggest titles of the year. Elsewhere, two equally impressive new next generation brands were unveiled in the shape of ambitious openworld street racing game The Crew and Tom Clancy's The Division - an exciting multiplayer tactical shooter.

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TOP CLASS SEQUELS ON THE WAY Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag's pirate-themed action romp looks certain to keep the brand at the top of the charts later this year, but the return of Sam Fisher in Splinter Cell: Blacklist is set to take espionage action to new heights when it arrives in August. Elsewhere, Rocksmith 2014 Edition amps up the guitar title with a whole new set list and a raft of improvements, while the gorgeous Rayman Legends is another co-op platforming classic-in-waiting. As if that wasn't enough, dance sensation Just Dance 2014 is on the way soon, alongside party favourite Rabbids Invasion, wild stunt bike racer Trials Fusion and the crude RPG madness of South Park: The Stick Of Truth.

p1213_E3 July 13v8_Future 01/07/2013 13:01 Page 2

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NINTENDO Every E3 has a memorable presence from the Japanese gaming veterans, and this year was no different as the Big N took the wraps off an array of upcoming future classics on 3DS and Wii U. BIG BRANDS HEADING TO WII U Following its success on Wii, the millions of fans can look forward to simian platforming thrills in full HD this November with Donkey Kong Country Tropical Freeze. Two other hugely successful Wii titles also get their debut outing on the Wii U later this year, with Wii Fit U and Wii Party U, while more multiplayer-centric classics are heading to the platform early next year in the shape of Mario Party U, and the exciting Mario Kart 8 - now featuring anti-grav tracks! But that wasn't all from the tubby plumber, with Super Mario 3D World adding a co-op multiplayer spin to the 3D Mario franchise, and the ever-popular multiplayer beat 'em up series Super Smash Bros. finally heading to Wii U (and 3DS) with a cast of Nintendo favourites.

KONAMI Gamers have another impressive set of releases to look forward to from the ever-reliable Japanese hit factory. At the front of the queue, Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain will be the first in the stealth action series to opt for an openworld structure, while PES 2014 promises much improved visuals and realism thanks to the all-new Fox Engine.

Legend Of Zelda: The Wind Waker arriving in October, and two exclusives coming from celebrated Japanese studio Platinum Games - the innovative "mass hero action" title The Wonderful 101 coming in August, while intense hack and slasher Bayonetta 2 hits the shelves in 2014. Finally, Monolith Soft's new seamless openworld title X was also unveiled - all in all, a big show for the Wii U.

Nintendo also showed off its impressive summer trio of future Wii U classics, comprising the breathtaking strategy title Pikmin 3, the hilarious and unhinged minigame collection Game & Wario, and the fiendish platform thrills of New Super Luigi U. Incredibly, it has even more coming to Wii U soon, with a remastered HD version of GameCube classic The

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MORE BIGGIES COMING TO 3DS The increasingly popular 3DS will continue its run of great titles, headed up by Pokemon X&Y in October - the first ever in the series to enjoy a simultaneous global launch. Elsewhere, the all-new The Legend Of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds takes its inspiration from 1991 SNES classic A Link To The Past and brings it bang up to date with inventive puzzling. Super Smash Bros., meanwhile, brings cross-compatibility to the series for the first time, allowing 3DS players to battle with Wii U friends when it arrives in 2014.

Finally, the excellent new RPG Mario & Luigi Dream Team arrives in August, while Yoshi's New Island will be one of the platforming stars of 2014.

Elsewhere Castlevania Lord Of Shadows 2 continues the horror fantasy success of the 2010 original in time for a winter release this year. And for PS3 owners who want a mega dose of stealth, Metal Gear Solid: The Legacy Collection rounds up almost every title released in the series since 1987 in one incredible value package.

SQUARE ENIX Could this be the best E3 ever for fans of Final Fantasy titles? Quite possibly, with new entries, HD remakes and spin-offs galore to look forward to. The headline grabber was undoubtedly the PS4/Xbox One action RPG blockbuster Final Fantasy XV, with its darker, more realistic style, but in August, fans can get their hands on the latest evolution to MMO, Final Fantasy XIV - subtitled A Realm Reborn. Meanwhile, early in 2014 Lightning Returns promises an epic conclusion to the Final Fantasy XIII series, while Murdered: Soul Suspect puts players in role of a ghostly dead detective out to solve his own murder.

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Powerful sound meets contemporary style

OTONE ® Sonora AV-Lance

The Sonora AV Lance is a powerful sound system comprising a 42” HD soundbar with a wireless Subwoofer. Featuring four 3" mid-range drivers, twin ¾" tweeters, and 6½” subwoofer, it’s elegantly balanced throughout the ranges to provide exquisite clarity with clean and rich mids and dynamic low-end bass.

Pumping out a hefty 120W RMS, it’s devastatingly loud while remaining free from distortion. The power and volume as well as subwoofer levels can be controlled by the wireless IR remote control. At the press of a button customers can enhance the experience by switching to a panoramic simulated surround sound.

The dual-purpose stands can be rotated to create wall mount brackets, allowing flexibility in the home set up. If customers are looking for a true home cinema effect, intense gaming or immersive music, the AV-Lance soundbar brings the experience to life.

Webcode 11030101

>>>

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Introducing two new speakers from new partner OTONE Audio

OTONE ® Soundship Micro

Otone’s Soundship Micro provides a premium-spec’d portable docking station specifically designed for Android devices. Pressing the top of the Soundship Micro will cause the panel to pop open and reveal an integrated micro USB dock connector.

Once the base is open it will also display a retractable USB cable used to recharge the battery and a stereo jack connector for an AUX line in allowing most devices to be connected to the speaker.

Bluetooth functionality also provides wireless connectivity to the Soundship Micro, adding even more flexibility on how customers connect their device, allowing them to stream their music from anywhere in the room.

Webcode 11040101

SRP £99.99

SRP £249.99

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Unlock the power of Windows 8 Logitech’s latest touch devices designed for Windows 8 Logitech Zone Touch Mouse T400 ®

<<<

Using the Zone Touch Mouse T400 it’s simple and easy to navigate Windows 8 using 3 essential gestures. Featuring horizontal and vertical scrolling by brushing a finger side to side or up and down and a one touch access to the Windows 8 start screen, it’s easy to open favourite apps.

The gesture controls can also be customized to a variety of functions by using Logitech’s Set Point software. Logitech’s Unifying technology also means that just one of its Wireless Nano receivers is needed to connect up to six compatible devices. The mouse combines dedicated touch zone areas of a touchpad with the traditional features of a mouse.

Webcode 910-003043 Black SRP £39.99 Webcode 910-003312 Blue SRP £39.99 Webcode 910-003311 Red SRP £39.99

®

<<<

Logitech Touch Mouse T620

The T620 mouse has an innovative touch surface designed to work in harmony with Windows 8 functionality and the navigation system. It also features an advanced laser-grade optical sensor that allows the mouse to work on almost any surface.

Customers can swipe, scroll, tap and click the touch mouse for smooth and refined control through the Window 8 interface. Scrolling is simple, brush a finger side to side, or up and down. Swiping two fingers left or right to go forward or backward provides quick document navigation. Double tapping will access the start screen menu, and swiping left to right on the left side will quickly switch apps.

Webcode 910-003336 Graphite SRP £59.99 Webcode 910-002703 White SRP £59.99

Logitech® Touch Pad K650

<<<

The T650 Wireless Touch Pad allows users to effortlessly swipe, rotate and pinch their way around the new Window 8 interface. This square touchpad allows 13 unique Window 8 gestures. Using three fingers, two finger and one finger swipes to operate a variety of functions and shortcuts to whichever app is being used and if the customer isn’t connected with the standard Windows 8 gestures, they can be customized using the Logitech SetPoint software.

The excellent build quality of the T650 features a large scratch resistant surface, with a smooth glass finish resistance to fingerprint smudges.

Webcode 910-003059 SRP £69.99

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Dare to be different

Impressive technology at an impressive price

The DGM tablet range includes the 7”, 8”, 9”, 9.7” and 10.1” versions; all at extremely affordable prices, presenting a fantastic opportunity for resellers to enhance their range of tablets.

Browse the internet, rent TV shows and movies, view great entertainment through streaming services, read books, download and listen to music, play games and access the latest Apps through Google services like Play Movies, Play Books and Play Store on 4.0 and 4.1 Android platforms.

Tablets from DGM offer affordable android powered computing with outstanding connectivity and functionality allowing customers to use the super responsive multi-touch screen to enjoy their favourite media.

7” Tablet PC

9.7” Tablet PC

10.1” Tablet PC

Key Features: Panel: Resolution: CPU: GPU: OS: Memory: Storage:

Key Features: Dual Core,Touch-screen Android 4.1, Full 1080p HD output Panel: 9.7" digital panel with Touch Resolution: 1024*768 pixels CPU: ARM Cortex-A9 1.6GHz Dual Core GPU: Mali-400 Quad GPU@300MHZ OS: Android 4.1 Memory: 1GB DDR3 Storage: 16 GB Nand flash (max up to 32GB)

Key Features: Panel: Resolution: CPU: GPU: OS: Memory: Storage:

Multi-touch screen and G-Sensor 7" digital panel with Touch 800×480 pixels ARM Cortex-A8 1.0GHz Mali-400 GPU@350MHZOS: Google Android 4.0Storage: 512MB DDR3 4GB Nand flash (max up to 32GB)

Webcode: T-704S SRP: £79.99

Webcode: T-1005/16GB SRP: £169.99

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Multi-touch screen and G-Sensor 10.1" digital panel with Touch 1024*600 pixels ARM Cortex-A9 1.6GHz Dual Core Quad Core Mali-400 (300MHZ) Android 4.1 1GB DDR3 16GB Nand flash (max up to 32GB)

Webcode: T-1006/16GB SRP: £169.99

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Premium components, essential equipment Game changing peripherals from SteelSeries SteelSeries Flux In-Ear Pro headset The Flux In-ear Pro is the most accurate headset SteelSeries has ever produced. It features balanced armature drivers which require no external air to produce sound. This means that the drivers can be made to be extremely small and tuned very precisely.

Thanks to this finely-tuned driver technology, the Flux In-ear Pro headset offers an incredible audio experience allowing users to hear new layers, levels and subtle details in their music and games.

Designed to be worn over the ear, it provides maximum comfort and a more secure fit, creating a better seal improving the acoustics. With a swappable cable system it’s fully compatible with mobile devices, PC and Mac. Included are standard silicone ear tips in 3 sizes: Small, Medium and Large and memory foam tips which expand to perfectly fit the user’s ear.

It also includes a sleek carrying case to protect the headset and its accessories such as the cables and ear tips.

Webcode 61318 SRP £108.99

SteelSeries Apex [RAW] keyboard Sleek and covertly styled, the SteelSeries Apex [RAW] is a low profile keyboard delivering the essentials needed for serious gamers to surpass their competition. Designed for quick reflexes, it features low profile, low action keys. Raised macro keys allow lightning fast key combinations while tactile bumps help users quickly find the WASD. Swappable rubber feet provide the most comfortable angles so players can enjoy long gaming sessions.

Anti-ghosting lets users press up to 6 simultaneous key presses of 20 frequently used gaming keys.

There’s no need to install any software to use the Apex [RAW]. Many features work as soon as its plugged in, including the ‘disabling windows’ key and more but of course it supports the SteelSeries Engine which lets gamers customise and fine tune their setup with 6 illumination settings, 15 macros (2 layers), profiles and media controls.

Don’t forget about the original SteelSeries Apex too. Designed for gamers that want it all, it features built-in USB ports, 22 macros, illumination colours and more.

Webcode [RAW] 64123 SRP £59.99 Webcode APEX 64147 SRP £89.99

SteelSeries Heat Orange headset Let players take their skill to the next level with the Siberia v2 Heat Orange.

With exceptional sound quality, a great microphone, lightweight design, unique styling and brilliant orange illumination options, it’s the right choice for any gamer from entry level to the pro.

The headsets premium 50mm drivers deliver unmatched comfort and optimized soundscape. Experience a rich and detailed range from immersive atmospheric background music to precise 3D positional sounds of footsteps, gunfire and more.

The headset includes a pullout, noise-cancelling microphone so the channel remains crystal clear when chatting. It also features an inline volume and mute controls so customers quickly adjust settings without missing a beat.

The Siberia v2 Heat Orange can be easily customised and configured to the customer’s preferences by using the software suite, the SteelSeries Engine. Customers can use this software to adjust equalizers, profiles and illumination options including: on/off, pulsation, intensity and trigger-modes.

Webcode 51141 SRP £104.99

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21

Stay productive on the go Style and precision in the palm of a hand Microsoft ® Wireless Mouse 1000

>>>

Wireless comfort and reliability The optical Wireless Mouse 1000 delivers precise tracking to scroll, point and click smoothly at home and on the go. Slightly longer than a compact mouse, the Wireless Mouse 1000 fits as effortlessly into a laptop bag as it does into a hand, and can be used in both the left and right hand comfortably.

Webcode 2TF-00003 SRP £19.99

®

>>>

Microsoft Sculpt Mobile Mouse

Perfectly designed with Windows 8 in mind The Sculpt Mobile Mouse operates seamlessly with Windows 8, utilising a built in Windows button to connect effortlessly with the Start screen and access all of the apps at the touch of a button.

Its compact design and BlueTrack technology, which works on virtually any surface, make it the ideal device for the office or on the go.

The classic shape of Sculpt Mobile Mouse and its 4-way scroll wheel make it intuitive to operate with either hand. Tilting the wheel left and right allows for horizontal scrolling, performing such tasks as navigating the Start screen or moving through wide documents with ease.

Webcode 43U-00003 SRP £29.99

Microsoft ® Sculpt Touch Mouse

TECHNOLOGY

TM

>>>

A clutter-free way to stay productive on the go The Sculpt Touch Mouse saves time in long documents and works virtually anywhere, with no cables or transceivers to connect. What’s more, it’s designed to fit comfortably in either hand.

The four-way touch pad on the Sculpt Touch Mouse allows multidirectional scrolling for breezing up and down, left and right, and through windows and documents with just the swipe of a finger. The mouse is also a powerful complement to Windows 8, navigating fluidly and intuitively around the Start Screen.

Webcode 6PL-00001 SRP £49.99

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to find out more

Compact convenient and portable

to find out more

Bluetooth wireless speakers from Maxell MXSB-BT01 Mini Bluetooth Speaker Despite being small, the pocket sized MXSB-BT01 is a portable speaker that packs a remarkable punch with quality sound from its 2w output.

Featuring built-in Bluetooth 3.0, devices can wirelessly connect and stream music. It also includes a call answering function with a built-in microphone, making it the perfect travelling companion for business or leisure.

Equipped with a rechargeable battery and a USB cable for charging the device, the MXSP-BT01 has an impressive battery life of up to 11 hours, so customers can keep listening while on the move.

The dinky and neatly ovate design is available in 4 striking colours. The MXSP-BT01 is sure to make its mark.

MXSB-BT03 Bluetooth Speaker Three times the power of the MXSB-BT01 but still incredibly compact, the MXSB-BT03 brings a powerful and crisp audio experience from its 6w output.

With state of the art APT-X â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;losslessâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; audio transfer technology, it delivers an optimum bass sound while retaining balanced mid and high ranges.

Using the latest standard Bluetooth 4.0, devices can connect wirelessly providing ultimate portability and clarity when streaming. It comes equipped with a USB charging cable for its inbuilt rechargeable battery, and delivers a remarkable 15 hours of battery life.

It also comes with a 3.5mm audio cable, a built in microphone for conference calling, as well as a full range of audio controls.

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25

The next generation of entertainment starts here!

T

he next generation of gaming is finally upon us - Microsoft has confirmed that it is to launch the long-awaited Xbox One in November this year.

Priced at £429, the next generation console is billed as "the ultimate all-in-one entertainment system built for the 21st century living room," and customers can pre-order it from Gem today.

Xbox One will truly be a powerhouse of entertainment, and is designed to usher in a whole new era of games, along with access to the very best music, live TV, movies, sports, apps and Skype.

So what's in the box? Each Xbox One system features a 500GB hard drive, Blu-ray player, built-in Wi-Fi, the new Kinect, a HDMІ cable, a redesigned Wireless Controller and a free 14-day trial of Xbox Live Gold to get new members up-and-running.

Don Mattrick, president, Іnteractive Entertainment Business at Microsoft commented:

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Our unique, modern architecture brings simplicity to the living room and, for the first time ever, the ability to instantly switch across your games and entertainment.

Xbox One games will "push the boundaries of realism", and the fully personalised system obeys your voice commands via the power of Kinect. Say “Xbox On” to launch the home screen, discover what is popular on TV or see friends’ latest gaming achievements all using the most natural interface - your voice.

The more you use Xbox One, the more it gets to know you and learns what you like, and breakthrough features put it right at the heart of the living room. Users will be able to link their set top box with Xbox One and navigate and control live TV. The innovative new Snap feature lets users do two things at once - jump into a multiplayer battle while watching a movie, talk with friends on Skype while watching a movie, or track your fantasy team on TV while watching the big game.

p2627_Xbox One spread July 13 v8_Future 04/07/2013 14:03 Page 2

Elsewhere, the Trending lets users stay on top of the hottest content in the Xbox community, while the tailored OneGuide makes finding your favourite entertainment easy.

But games remain right at the heart of the Xbox One experience, and Microsoft has a stellar line-up of titles coming to the platform during the launch phase and beyond.

With its eight core processors powering the console, gaming on Xbox One "will immerse gamers in cinematic worlds that look like real life, with characters that feel more human than ever before."

The games unveiled so far look nothing short of stunning, including Turn 10's incredible racing title, Forza Motorsport 5, Rare's Kinect Sports Rivals, Remedy's innovative interactive action drama Quantum Break, Crytek's brutal hackandslash Ryse: Son Of Rome, as well as the turn of 90s beat 'em up classic Killer Іnstinct.

XBOX ONE | NEED TO KNOW

• Launching November 2013 • Priced £429 • Bundled with new version of Kinect • Іncludes redesigned wireless controller • HDMІ cable • 500GB hard disk storage • Blu-Ray player • Built-in Wi-Fi

Ryse: Son of Rome

Forza Motorsports 5

Kinect Sports Rivals

Pre-order bonuses for launch titles Gamers will receive special bonus content if they reserve the following exclusive Xbox One launch title - while supplies last.

• Ryse: Son of Rome - Exclusive multiplayer map and sword with bonus attributes • Forza Motorsport 5 - Access to four cars tuned to the top of their class • Kinect Sports Rivals - Exclusive sporting equipment that separates your Champion from the rest of the world • Dead Rising 3 - Exclusive Frank West and Chuck Greene Tribute Packs with bonus attributes. this exciting new system from Microsoft

Gem appointed official Xbox One distributor Gem Distribution is delighted to confirm it will be the only official UK distributor for Xbox One. While stocks last, Microsoft is offering a limited edition commemorative bundle to consumers who reserve the console with major retailers.

The commemorative bundle includes an Xbox One system in premium black packaging, a limited edition Xbox One

TO BUY ONLINE store.gem.co.uk

Day One wireless controller, and a unique commemorative Day One Achievement.

Be quick - the limited edition is available to pre-order from Gem today! Іn addition, Gem will be supplying a range of exclusive first and third party launch titles, and the best accessories. Email online@gem.co.uk to register for our e-blasts or contact your dedicated Gem account manager for more information on this exciting launch.

TEL 01279 822822 FAX 01279 412604 WEB WWW.GEM.CO.UK

27

THE BUREAU: XCOM DECLASSIFIED EXCLUSIVE

TO GEM

2K GAMES | XBOX 360, PS3 - £39.99 | PC - £29.99 | 23rd AUGUST 2013

F

The Bureau’s mission is clear – survive, adapt and overcome the enemy threat to protect the citizens from the truth.

Developed by 2K Marin in California, this squad-based tactical shooter, is billed as

Paramount to repelling attacks is The Bureau’s ability to cover-up the enemy’s existence in order to prevent worldwide panic.

rom the makers of Bioshock 2 comes a gripping story of the clandestine XCOM organisation’s first encounter with a mysterious enemy.

a high-stakes narrative experience imbued with core XCOM concepts

The game is described by 2K as

Set in the paranoid Cold War era of 1962, the US is gripped by fear of Communism. But the real threat is a far more powerful and insidious otherworldly enemy.

a narrative-driven experience that is smart, engaging, and challenges players to think tactically

Known only to a government unit called The Bureau, this top secret agency looks into - and covers up - these devastating attacks.

With its compelling tale of government conspiracy and heroic cover-ups told through third-person tactical gameplay, The Bureau is a game set to capture gamers' imagination upon its release later this summer on Xbox 360, PS3 and PC.

Players must take control of special agent William Carter - a man who calls the shots, pulls the trigger and leads his squad in this covert war protecting the very fate of humanity.

TO BUY ONLINE store.gem.co.uk

Its calculated combat design will demand that players think and act tactically. Meanwhile, the game’s

third-person perspective gives the player a sense of spatial awareness and grants them the freedom to transition in and out Carter’s unique Battle Focus ability seamlessly.

The Bureau is also a game where consequences matter.

The Death of squad mates is permanent, meaning that decision could make the difference between life and death for Carter, his squad - and mankind. Call your Gem account manager now for more on this hugely promising title from 2K Games.

• • •

Bold extension of the XCOM brand Compelling conspiracy-laced narrative hook From the makers of Bioshock 2

TEL 01279 822822 FAX 01279 412604 WEB WWW.GEM.CO.UK

29

p3031_Minecraft July 13.v8_Future 01/07/2013 14:46 Page 1

• • •

3

REASONS TO STOCK

Phenomenally popular download game finally available in boxed form Almost infinite replayability Popular across age and gender divides

This is a supremely tight version of a classic game that gracefully navigates the limitations of its platform EUROGAMER

The vastly improved crafting interface and smooth online play make it easier to get into than ever before, which should open up Minecraft to a whole new audience IGN

30

Minecraft is an example of the possibilities of gamers rather than their games, and its towering success has been accomplished without alienation or elitism VIDEOGAMER

Like Sim City and Civilization before it, it is a sandbox that not only facilitates but also actively nurtures experimentation and creativity. That is much more rare than it sounds, and so much more valuable THE GUARDIAN

p3031_Minecraft July 13.v8_Future 01/07/2013 14:47 Page 2

MICROSOFT | XBOX 360 - £13.99 | 28th JUNE 2013

T

he worldwide phenomenon that is Minecraft is coming to the high street, with a new boxed retail edition of the game coming exclusively to the Xbox 360.

Since its release just over a year ago on Xbox Live Arcade, Mojang's unique, creative building experience has gone on to sell more than six million copies worldwide - an astonishing success that has made it by far the most popular downloadable console title of all-time.

Now gamers without an internet connection can finally get their hands on this fantastically absorbing title and create worlds from the comfort of their sofa.

As Microsoft says, it's a game players can enjoy alone or with up to four friends on the same machine in split-screen - or online with eight players over Xbox Live.

Minecraft is a game of pure creativity, as players explore, build and conquer a three dimensional world full of possibilities and adventure.

With two distinct ways to play it, players can either focus collecting, building, mining and exploring in the safety of Creative mode, or face the tense danger and excitement of Survival mode, where fierce and unpredictable creatures stalk the world.

In Survival, it's vital that players build their own shelters to protect themselves from the deadly onslaught of the monsters that appear after dark.

But to do so takes no shortage of skill and commitment as players gather and craft the necessary items required to build a structure

May 2009 March 2011 Oct 2011 Nov 2011 May 2012 April 2013 June 28th 2013

4J has done an incredible job of not just recreating the experience of Minecraft, but making it more accessible WIRED

that can withstand the deadly explosive Creepers, or the Zombies who can break into your house while you sleep!

Despite its PC origins, Scotland's 4J Studios has done a great job converting Mojang's classic to work on the 360's gamepad. Crafting is fast, intuitive and simple, thanks to a redesigned interface, while a thoughtful tutorial helps make the game fully accessible to newcomers - including younger players.

This is an

impressive port and a brilliant game THE TELEGRAPH

Players can also team up with friends and co-operatly go out on adventures to find rare items, and craft powerful weapons and armour to take the fight to the biggest adversaries in this pixelated world, including the legendary Ender Dragon.

Up to four players can play together in split-screen mode on the same console, and with Xbox Live, that number can double to eight, making one of the most social gaming experiences around.

Build Minecraft worlds where your imagination is the only limit in this modern classic.

Swedish developer Markus 'Notch' Persson releases first Alpha version on PC,and quits his job at King.com to focus on making Minecraft Wins five awards at Game Developers Conference.

First mobile 'pocket' version released, on Android phones, followed shortly on iOS platforms Full version released on PC Released on Xbox Live Arcade for Xbox 360, developed by Scottish team, 4J Studios. Wins Golden Joystick for best downloadable game Sales pass 10 million on PC, 6 million on Xbox 360, 4 million on mobile Retail boxed version available for Xbox 360 exclusively

TO BUY ONLINE store.gem.co.uk

TEL 01279 822822 FAX 01279 412604 WEB WWW.GEM.CO.UK

31

COLLECTOR BOX

Splinter Cell debuts as a flagship Xbox exclusive. Later released on PS2, GameCube, GBA and PC. XBOX 360, PS3 & PC FORMAT

Splinter Cell: Pandora Tomorrow released on Xbox, PS2, PC, GameCube and GBA. Reaches an Xbox Metacritic of 93%.

SPECIAL OPS WATCH 24 PAGE COMIC BOOK

Splinter Cell: Chaos Theory released on Xbox, PS2, PC, GameCube, and DS. First to feature competitive and co-op multiplayer.

Splinter Cell: Double Agent released on Xbox 360, PS3 and PC. A separate version was also released for Xbox, PS2, GameCube and Wii.

Splinter Cell Conviction announced.

Eventually released in April 2010 on Xbox 360, PC and Mac, with various mobile phone versions.

Splinter Cell Trilogy HD released on PS3 and 360 - remastered versions of the first three in the series.

•

Splinter Cell: Blacklist released on Xbox 360, PS3, Wii U and PC.

32

• •

3

REASONS TO STOCK

First Splinter Cell since 2010's Conviction Multi-million selling series Cinematic single player campaign

p3031_Minecraft July 13.v8_Future 01/07/2013 11:05 Page 2

UBISOFT | XBOX 360 & PS3 - £39.99 | PC - £29.99 | Wii U - £39.99 | ULTIMATUM EDITION - £59.99 | 23rd AUGUST 2013

A

fter three long years away, Sam Fisher returns to foil more deadly terror plots with another stealth action classic from Ubisoft.

In the sixth game in the series, the espionage and infiltration expert has been called upon by the United States government to head up the president's newly formed 4th Echelon unit.

With a group of 12 global terrorists initiating an ultimatum known as Blacklist, it's up to Sam and his team to track them down by any means necessary before the countdown reaches its deadly conclusion.

In the latest Splinter Cell adventure, Ubisoft promises a "thrilling storyline" along with an array of "intense, eye-opening covert missions" that compel players to take down those responsible by any means necessary.

Ubisoft promises players will be able to operate without restrictions. With Sam back in his trademark tactical suit and goggles, it's said he’s deadlier than ever.

As the only secret operative with the power to act above the law, players can use "ruthless methods" to interrogate enemies in order to glean the kind of intel that can prevent massive loss of life from the Blacklist attack.

In true Splinter Cell tradition, Fisher must pursue terrorists to all four corners of the globe, from iconic U.S. cities to exotic locations as he races against the clock to find out who’s behind the Blacklist.

Players can expect "a highly cinematic experience" throughout, thanks to advanced motion capture. A new system dubbed 'Kill in Motion' allows players to mark targets in advance, before striking with lethal precision in one fluid, deadly action.

As ever, Fisher traverses the environment fluidly.

Active Sprint allows him to gracefully climb walls

It's wonderfully fraught, and also unique - there's no other multiplayer experience that can quite match the excitement and instant drama created by a round of Spies vs. Mercs EUROGAMER

The series is taking large leaps to stay modern in an action-heavy world, but even with the rebranding of Fisher, we're still staunchly pro-Splinter Cell

and leap over barriers and take down his target in one swift, slick manoeuvre.

He also comes equipped with an arsenal of brand new high-tech gadgets such as the upgraded snake cam and micro-trirotor drone which allows him to scout ahead, mark targets remotely, distract or frag enemies.

Fans of multiplayer can also look forward to the return of the wildly popular Spy Vs. Mercs mode, with four different mission types spread across some 14 maps. Ubisoft has even tied the two modes together, so that weapons and gadgets unlock for use in the campaign.

Taking advantage of the GamePad’s touchscreen, the Wii U edition has unique features like snake camera control and weapon engagement.

All told, Splinter Cell: Blacklist looks certain to become another chart-topping success for Ubi. Don't miss out - contact your Gem account manager today to find out more about pre-ordering.

This isn't simply Splinter Cell meets Assassin's Creed. It's a bigger, far more interesting game than that GAMESPOT

Should please hardcore Splinter Cell fans while still appealing to new ones THE ESCAPIST

CVG

TO BUY ONLINE store.gem.co.uk

TEL 01279 822822 FAX 01279 412604 WEB WWW.GEM.CO.UK

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hot picks

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Call Of Duty: Black Ops 1200 points

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Visit store.gem.co.uk/charts for further information on Gem’s Hot Picks

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