store.gem.co.uk | October 2013
CONTENTS 05 EDITOR’S COMMENT
Faye Le Duc introduces the October edition of The Future
07 WE WANT ONE
Thrustmaster unveils the TX Racing Wheel Ferrari F458 Italia Edition for Xbox One
09 NEW TO US
OUYA partners with Gem to deliver a new kind of console at £99.99
11 Q&A
Gaming Category Manager Gemma Walters takes the spotlight to tell us more about her role
13 MICROSOFT PC ACCESSORIES
Pick up some exclusive promotions across a fantastic range of PC Accessories from Microsoft
15 ROKU
Adding 3 new products to their range, we explore why Roku is your must-stock streaming brand this Christmas
19 LOGITECH
Gem announce the winner of last month’s competition. Find out if you’ve won £500 Gem Credit!
21 STEELSERIES
Introducing the Siberia Elite – the new flagship Dolby gaming headset from SteelSeries
23 ASSASSIN'S CREED IV: BLACK FLAG
Y'arrrgh! It's time for an epic pirate adventure as Ubisoft unleash the next episode in the Assassin’s Creed series
26 GAMES FOR XBOX ONE
Discover more about the eagerly awaited games launching for Xbox One from Microsoft
28 NINTENDO
Say hello to the Nintendo 2DS – the new member of the Nintendo 3DS family!
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
TO BUY ONLINE store.gem.co.uk
@gemdistribution
www.linkedin.com/company/gem-distribution-ltd
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03
UK RETAIL SALES GREW BY 25% IN 2012 MAKING DRAGON THE NUMBER 1 CHOICE FOR SPEECH RECOGNITION SOFTWARE • Up to 3 times faster than typing • Use your voice; - Create emails, documents & spreadsheets - Surf the web - Update Facebook
FREE
FREE DOWNLOAD On installation. Instantly upgrades Dragon to include; Windows 8, IE 10 and Microsoft Office 13 compatibility
Dragon Remote Microphone app turns your iPhone and Android device into a wireless microphone
COMEDITOR’S editor’s comment
The Christmas countdown has officially started, and with only 12 weeks to go and an abundance of new products hitting the shelves, we’re hopeful that this is going to be one of the best in a while. The final quarter of 2013 is set to be a big one for Gem. We’re only a month away from a new generation of console gaming with the launch of Xbox One, which has been designed to start ahead and stay ahead. Deep investments in cloud infrastructure, controller design, Kinect and Xbox SmartGlass mean that the Xbox One, games, and entertainment will keep getting better over time. In case you’ve missed it, the new console is out on the 22nd November so this really is your last opportunity to pre-order with your Gem account manager.
Faye Le Duc PR & Marketing Manager
Launched last month, Rockstar’s Grand Theft Auto V and has already earned its place as a future classic, whilst Ubisoft are continuing the pre-order momentum ahead of the release of Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag. Nintendo has announced a new addition to the DS family with the arrival of the Nintendo 2DS on the 12th October. Giving you additional variety and value in your handheld gaming offering, the Nintendo 2DS is a streamlined version of the Nintendo 3DS that will play games available for Nintendo 3DS, as well as Nintendo DS in 2D. As well as a healthy gaming line-up for Christmas, Gem has unveiled a number of key partnerships with new brands, adding diversity within the categories. In recent months, 3D motion controller manufacturer Leap Motion joined the party to provide a new way for consumers to interact with their computers, whilst Gem launch the WorldPay Zinc mobile pay as you go Chip & PIN service in the UK. Gem’s category offering across PC/IT, Software, Consumer Electronics and Gaming is healthier than ever before. In this month’s edition of Future magazine, we share some of the exciting new product launches from Roku, Thrustmaster and SteelSeries, as well as a number of margin boosting items from Logitech and Microsoft PC Accessories.
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 Digital Support Peter Cox Gaming Editor Kristan Reed
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
to find out more
TO BUY ONLINE store.gem.co.uk
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05
to find out more
we want one
Thrustmaster
TX Racing Wheel Ferrari 458 Italia Edition Following its Xbox One third-party peripheral official partnership announcement, Thrustmaster is thrilled to announce its first Xbox One peripheral: the TX Racing Wheel, Ferrari 458 Italia Edition, launched for D-Day of “Forza Motorsport 5.” With over 20 years of expertise in simulation gear, and a close development relationship with Microsoft, Thrustmaster is excited to announce a racing wheel to the Xbox One marketplace. The challenge faced by both teams was to create a new generation of racing wheels never before seen on the Xbox platform. The TX Racing Wheel, Ferrari 458 Italia Edition will be a 7:10 scale replica of the emblematic Ferrari 458 Italia wheel, and will feature a rubber grip for maximum comfort. The wheel has been developed in collaboration with Microsoft and will be fully dedicated to the Xbox One, including all of the related distinct features: Binder ID, Xbox One guide button, View & App button. Thanks to Thrustmaster’s unique experience and passion for racing, the wheel has been optimized to provide jaw-droppingly lifelike sensations in “Forza Motorsport 5” on Xbox One, by way of metal gas and brake pedals and wheel-mounted, die-cast paddle shifters. Details and specifics for this cutting-edge racing wheel will be released in the coming weeks on the Thrustmaster website and the brand new Facebook page; www.facebook.com/ThrustmasterXTeam and will be available from your Gem Account Manager.
i TO BUY ONLINE store.gem.co.uk
For more information on Thrustmaster, contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or go online at store.gem.co.uk
TEL 01279 822822 FAX 01279 412604 WEB WWW.GEM.CO.UK
07
new to us
to find out more
A new kind of games console OUYA is a new kind of game console for the television that brings together an open development experience – where any creator can publish a game to the living room – with an accessible and affordable console at £99.99, and where all games are free to try. OUYA supports both the downloading and streaming of entertainment content in beautiful 1080p HD quality. OUYA was envisioned by founder and CEO Julie Uhrman, and beautifully designed by award-winning designer Yves Behar. Built on an open OS with a custom interface and store, OUYA focuses on the fun factor of games – games are organised by featured playlists and overall player engagement and not by revenue or downloads – enabling the most fun game experiences to shine. The controller was built as a love letter to console gaming, incorporating fast, responsive buttons, triggers that feel like triggers, laser-precise analog sticks, an accurate D-Pad, and integrated touchpad.
i TO BUY ONLINE store.gem.co.uk
For more information on OUYA, contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or go online at store.gem.co.uk
TEL 01279 822822 FAX 01279 412604 WEB WWW.GEM.CO.UK
09
hot picks
to find out more
Top 5 Accessories ‘Hot Picks’
Top 5 Speakers ‘Hot Picks’
1
Maxell Aluminum Powerbank 1700
1
OTONE Soundship Micro
2
Transcend Wifi Card
2
TDK Stereo Bluetooth
3
Maxell Waterproof MP3 Player
3
Maxell BT03 speaker - Black
4
DGM 9” Tablet
4
Maxell MXSB 250 Soundbar TV Speaker
5
XtremeMac Sportwrap iPhone 5 LED - Black
5
XtremeMac Tango Bar
Webcode 785801.00.CN SRP £24.99
Webcode TS16GWSDHC10 SRP £39.99
Webcode 854674.00.CN SRP £39.99
Webcode T-1005/16 SRP £189.99
Webcode IPP-LSWN-13 SRP £29.99
Webcode 11050101 SRP £99.99
Webcode T79001 SRP £189.99
Webcode 861036.00.CN SRP £49.99 (colours available white, blue, pink & black)
Webcode 861023.00.CN SRP £79.99
Webcode USB-B22-03 SRP £89.99
Top 5 Coming Soon ‘Hot Picks’
10
1
Energenie Sharegenie
2
Worldpay Zinc Chip & Pin Keypad
3
Tely Labs HD Audio Pod 13
4
Roku 3
5
DGM Quad Core
Webcode ENER124 SRP £119.99
Webcode M005-PROD01-72-2 SRP £59.99
Webcode USBAUDIO-01-01 SRP £129.99
Webcode 4200EU SRP £99.99
Webcode TBC SRP £TBC
Visit store.gem.co.uk/hotpicks/consumerelectronics for more details.
Q&A
Follow Gem for the latest news & updates
Introducing Gemma Walters We spotlight Gemma Walters who returns as Gaming Category Manager Gaming is the grass roots of Gem and continues to be a big part of the business, what changes have you seen over the years and what excites you about this category? In 13 years I’ve seen a fair few changes, not the people I’m pleased to say, once you are in it’s hard to get out. Notably gaming becoming mainstream entertainment has been the biggest change. What excites? We’ve just distributed GTA V & we have Xbox One coming next month, need I say more? Can you tell us more about your role as Gaming Category Manager? It is my responsibility to manage the relationships with our gaming partners and in doing so implement category plans to deliver growth for the sector. Describe yourself in 3 words? Positive, happy, demanding (so I’m told!)
TO BUY ONLINE store.gem.co.uk
What was your first role? How did you get to where you are now? I joined Gem in 2000 as Assistant Buyer in Gaming. Some people may suggest I got here through some old bugger named Paul Donnelly (our founder and my dad) I would argue it’s been through a great deal of hard work. In truth I have learnt a great deal from him and I would certainly say that his guidance and advice has been invaluable. Tell us a fact about yourself that most people won’t know? I have a horse named Monty. If you had to host a dinner party and could invite anyone, who would you invite and why? Cesar Millan, I have an obnoxious Border terrier I need some help with before he gets an ASBO.
TEL 01279 822822 FAX 01279 412604 WEB WWW.GEM.CO.UK
11
Microsoft
Microsoft
Microsoft
S9Ј-00007 SRP £19.99
Consumer H5D-00014 SRP £69.99 Business 6CH-00002 SRP £35.65
ЈUG-00014 SRP £24.99
Comfort Mouse 3000 With excellent reliability and comfort, the Comfort Mouse 3000 will help get just about any job done. The rubber side grips and a contoured shape make it comfortable in either hand. While BlueTrack Technology combines the power of optical with the precision of laser for remarkable tracking on virtually any surface. Designed for trouble-freeperformance, it eliminates the worry of battery life.
TECHNOLOGY
LifeCam Cinema Enjoy high-quality 720p HD widescreen video together with crystal clear audio, with the LifeCam Cinema. Customers can relax while the camera automatically sharpens images and TrueColor adjusts exposure for bright, vibrant footage. For even sharper video, they can take advantage of the high-precision glass lens and ClearFrame Technology to improve the picture even in low light conditions.
LifeChat LX-3000 Users can sit back with the LifeChat LX-3000 and enjoy the quality digital sound, made even better with total-comfort leatherette ear pads, perfect for chatting, playing a game, or listening to music. With the USB connection, you can get plugged in fast. And when you’re ready to talk, the noise-cancelling microphone makes sure you’re heard, crystal clear.
TM
Quality without compromise. Fantastic savings across a great range of Microsoft PC Accessories throughout October.
12
Microsoft
Microsoft
Microsoft
Q2F-00015 SRP £89.99
RVF-00050 SRP £69.99
T9T-00006 SRP £49.99
Delivering HD video quality with a 1080p sensor and High-Fidelity Microphone, the LifeCam Studio brings the quality of a studio to a customer’s desk space.
Users can get the best of both worlds-the control and precision of a conventional mouse, blended with the fluid movement available in touch technology.
The Sculpt Mobile Keyboard is Ultra-thin ‘pick up and go` keyboard with Bluetooth technology and an economic convex shape that promotes a relaxed posture.
To make filming even easier, LifeCam features TrueColor Technology, which means the video remains bright and colourful in virtually all light conditions while ClearFrame Technology provides smooth and detailed footage.
Customers can navigate Windows 8 seamlessly with additional gesture settings, and personalise the Touch Mouse experience with new gesture and scrolling customisations.
With a 10 months battery life, an indicator to warn when it’s time to switch battery and of course an On/Off switch it conserves power. Windows 8 hot keys also allow users to quickly share, search and access files.
LifeCam Studio
Touch Mouse
Sculpt Mobile Keyboard
Call your Gem account manager on
01279 822 822 to take advantage of great savings for a limited time only.
TO BUY ONLINE store.gem.co.uk
TEL 01279 822822 FAX 01279 412604 WEB WWW.GEM.CO.UK
13
Action packed and fully loaded Introducing Roku 3, the new standard in streaming
Designed for HDTV’s, the new Roku 3 is possibly the most powerful, responsive streaming box on the market. Its eclectic offering delivers some of the best entertainment from popular premium services like Netflix, Spotify and NowTV to many free entertainment options like Crackle, BBC iPlayer, Angry Birds, Demand 5 and VEVO. Roku 3 has an all-new interface that makes browsing effortless. While other intuitive features include an enhanced remote with a built-in headphone jack, allowing users to enjoy private listening which especially handy for watching at night without waking others, as well as motion-sensing technology that lets customers play games with a simple flick of the wrist or game-ready buttons for furious button mashing. It also delivers up to 1080p HD video and extended-range, dual-band wireless connectivity for increased speed. A free Roku app for iPhone® and Android™ devices can turn a customer’s phone into an advanced remote control for the Roku, letting them start a show, replay a favourite movie moment, browse through all channels in the Channel Store, or add new channels to the line-up. With over 50,000 movies and shows instantly available, Roku can deliver that perfect title to match the mood of the customer.
Three great value models
Roku 1
Roku 2
Roku 3
Instant entertainment made easy.
Stunning video with private listening.
Fully loaded and lightning fast.
SRP £59.99 Webcode 2710EU
SRP £79.99 Webcode 2720EU
SRP £99.99 Webcode 4200EU
• Up to 1080p HD • 450+ entertainment channels • Works on virtually any TV • Channel shortcut buttons on remote • Great value
• Up to 1080p HD • 450+ entertainment channels • Extended-range wireless • Works on virtually any TV • Headphone Jack on remote • Includes Earbud headphones
• Up to 1080p HD • 450+ entertainment channels • Motion control for games • Extended-range wireless • Ethernet + USB • 5X faster processor • Headphone Jack on remote • Includes In-ear headphones
TO BUY ONLINE store.gem.co.uk
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15
Speakers you won’t notice with sound you won’t believe Introducing the new Soundbar range from Maxell available from Gem today >>>>
MAXELL MXSP SB-3000 Digital Soundbar TV Speaker
NEW
There are plenty of features with the MXSP SB 3000 Digital Soundbar TV Speaker from Maxell. It doesn’t just produce high quality audio, it also features Bluetooth for playing music directly from any mobile, and a USB port which can charge a Smartphone or Tablet. Designed to sit neatly under a large flat screen TV weighing up to 80kg the SB-3000 Soundbar has a 100w woofer and with a pair of 30w front speakers listeners can enjoy 160w of 2.1-channel sound with a range of sound modes for cinema, music, speech and sport. It even has a programmable remote control! The SB-3000 Soundbar has five wired digital inputs, 3x HDMI, 1 Optical and one Coaxial with a single HDMI output that plugs into the TV. The wooden frame isn’t just a solid base for the TV; it also acoustically enhances the bass output. It measures 930 x 390 x 82mm, suitable for TVs up to 80kg. The Soundbar weighs 8.6kg. • • • • • • • • • •
Xbox One compatible 2:1 Surround Sound SRS WOW HD 3D Audio Technology 160W ( 2 x 30W speakers & 100W sub-woofer) 5x Digital inputs – 3 HDMI, 1 x Optical, 1x Coaxial) 2 x Analogue input 1 x RCA, 1 x 3.5mm AUX 1 x HDMI output USB Charging port features at the front Suitable for TV’s weighing up to 80KG Bluetooth compatible – Connect any Apple device, smartphone, tablet or Bluetooth enabled device • 3 x base settings • SRS on/off function Webcode 861042.00.CN SRP £214.99
MAXELL >>>> MXSB 252 Soundbar Digital TV Speaker
NEW
Look no further than Soundbar MXSB-252 when it comes to seeking out a complete home entertainment system. Soundbar enables the listener to hear every little detail when watching their favourite programmes or film, or even when playing on a console! • • • • • •
Powerful 30W Woofer speaker 4 x 10W Front Speakers SRS Surround Sound 4 x Digital Inputs (3 x HDMI, 1 x Optical) Touch Sensor buttons Ideal for TV’s up to 50kg
Webcode 861022.00.CN SRP £129.99
TO BUY ONLINE store.gem.co.uk
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17
to find out more
Must-have Logitech products. Must-have pricing. Gem recommends two not-to-be-missed items from Logitech, with exclusive discounts on the first 100 units ordered Promotional Trade Price
£45.12*
£20.89*
>>>>
>>>>
Promotional Trade Price
LOGITECH Surround Sound Speakers Z506
LOGITECH Wireless Touch Keyboard K400
The Logitech® Surround Sound Speakers Z506 put your customers in the middle of their music, movies and games with immersive 5.1 surround sound. A variety of inputs allows for connection to a PC, PS3™, Xbox 360®, Wii®, iPod®, DVD player and more whilst the ported, down-firing subwoofer and dedicated bass control help bring audio to life.
For wireless control of any laptop — even when it’s connected to a TV. You can control your laptop without getting up from the couch thanks to the 10-metre (33 feet) wireless range. The large 9-cm (3.5-inch), built-in touchpad with multi-touch navigation makes vertical and horizontal scrolling intuitive. Setup is simple, too.
KEY FEATURES:
You just plug the tiny Logitech Unifying receiver into a USB port—no software needed. You can even add five more compatible devices to the same receiver. The sleek, low-profile keys feel good and barely make a sound. And you can enjoy it all for up to a year without the hassle of changing batteries.
• Surround sound with 3D Stereo puts sound all around – the speakers convert two-channel stereo into an immersive surround-sound experience • Multiple inputs (including RCA and 3.5 mm inputs) give the flexibility to set up a system the way you want • 75 watts (RMS) of room-filling sound and a powerful subwoofer brings audio to life • Ported, down-firing subwoofer and dedicated bass control deliver deep bass Webcode 980-000432 SRP £79.99
KEY FEATURES: • Logitech® Advanced 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity with 10-metre range (33 feet)* • Large 9-cm (3.5-inch), built-in touchpad with multi-touch navigation and large left- and right-click buttons • Plug-and-play setup with Logitech® Unifying receiver • Whisper-quiet, low-profile keys with bold, bright white characters and a UV coating • 12-month battery life and on/off switch Webcode 920-003116 SRP £39.99
* Promotional trade price applies to the first 100 units only. Whilst stocks last.
TO BUY ONLINE store.gem.co.uk
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19
Compatible with:
1.3 ONE COLOR, POSITIVE FOR WHITE BACKGROUND
Android
™
iOS
®
®
OS X
®
Windows
Siberia Elite Gaming Headset For the gamer wanting everything and then a little more Magnificently crafted, the Siberia Elite is SteelSeries' new flagship Dolby gaming headset. Building on the proud and iconic design of the Siberia range, it brings an all-new take on that classic look and feel. Featuring a lightweight, suspension design with steel arc, this beautiful brushed metal finish supports extra-large memory foam padded leather ear cups with a suspension headband delivering luxurious comfort with a sophisticated elegance. Crammed with premium features it has a USB sound card with powerful digital signal processing, delivering multiple Dolby® technologies, 7.1 Surround Sound, DSP driven active-noise cancellation microphone, brilliant 16.8 million colour illumination, and more. Next generation premium 50mm driver’s deliver best-in-class sound specifically engineered for gaming. Meanwhile, customers can use the SteelSeries Engine 3 to customise and save unlimited 10-band equalizer profiles. These profiles can be designed for a specific game and set to load automatically when it launches, so customers get the perfect unique audio setting for each game.
ColorShift in the new SteelSeries Engine 3 also lets users choose from multiple colour illuminations and brightness settings, which can be set to rotate on interval. Cumbersome inline controls are ditched in favour of a simple, quick access dials on the left and right ear cup, left to mute of unmute the microphone and right for adjusting the volume. SteelSeries introduced the first retractable microphones to gaming headsets, and the Elite progresses this intuitive concept with a retractable uni-direction microphone that features an LED to indicate when it’s muted, and when connected to the included USB sound card - active noise-cancellation, which greatly reduces any background noise for a crystal clear transmission. The microphone is detachable and uses the industry standard MMCX connection allowing it to be upgraded. The Siberia is already a favourite among gamers, and the Siberia Elite brings even more style and features to this must-love headset. Webcode Black 51127 White 51151 SRP £169.99
Visit http://steelseries.com/siberiaelite TO BUY ONLINE store.gem.co.uk
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21
EXCLUSIVE
TO GEM
Fun, intuitive, engaging and very impressive... If this was a new IP, we'd be bowled over by its ambition and playability. HUFFINGTON POST
For those unfamiliar with the series, Black Flag might just be the perfect opportunity to get on board PLAYSTATION BLOG
Black Flag feels excellent to play. There's definitely a more refined sense of control AUSGAMERS
22
• • •
3
REASONS TO STOCK
Latest in the best-selling series Available on six major formats Most expansive single player campaign yet
UBISOFT | STANDARD EDITION - XBOX 360, PS3, WiiU & PC - 1st NOVEMBER 2013 XBOX ONE - 22nd NOVEMBER 2013 | PS4 - 29th NOVEMBER 2013 XBOX 360, PS4, WiiU - £54.99 | PC - £44.99 | XBOX ONE - £TBC | PS4 - £TBC SKULL EDITION - XBOX 360, PS3, WiiU & PC - 1st NOVEMBER 2013 | XBOX ONE - 22nd NOVEMBER 2013 PS4 - 29th NOVEMBER 2013 | XBOX 360, PS4, WiiU - £64.99 | PC - £54.99 | XBOX ONE £TBC | PS4 - £TBC
Y
'arrrgh! It's time for an epic pirate adventure, as Ubisoft prepares to unleash the next exciting episode in its hugely successful Assassin's Creed series.
Billed as the "largest and most diverse Assassin's Creed world ever created," the game is set in the lawless 18th Century era when corrupt and cruel pirates ruled the waves.
“largest and most diverse Assassin's Creed world ever created”
There's a great deal to be excited about GAMEFRONT
The star of Black Flag is the swashbuckling Edward Kenway, a brash young pirate captain who finds himself drawn into an ancient war against the Templars. Kenway must utilise his deadly array of assassin skills to become most feared pirate in the Caribbean.
Kenway will be able to leap aboard massive galleons, recruit sailors to his crew and join legendary names such as Blackbeard, Calico Jack and Benjamin Hornigold as the most feared pirate in the Bahamas.
Kitted out with exciting new weapons, he can effortlessly switch between the Hidden Blade of the Assassin’s Order, his four flintlock pistols and dual cutlass swords.
As well as boasting the most expansive single player experience to date, multiplayer has also received a significant upgrade, with an exciting online journey promised throughout the Caribbean.
From Kingston to Nassau, players can live the life of a pirate and explore 50 unique locations, looting underwater shipwrecks, assassinating Templars in cities, hunting for animals or searching for lost treasure.
Players can select from an all-new set of pirate characters, and explore new and exotic locations.
Building on the stellar success of the 12-million selling Assassin's Creed III, naval missions also play a big part in Black Flag. Players will get to plunder and pillage like a true pirate, upgrade their 'Jackdaw' ship and then fight off enemies with intense cannon-based attacks.
But perhaps most significant is the new Game Lab feature, where gamers get to create their own game experience. Players can create their own mode by selecting abilities, rules and bonuses, and then share the results with friends. As ever, Ubisoft hasn't skimped on the game's technical side, and early glimpses of the title have revealed it to be a truly spectacular looking game across all formats. Owners of next generation consoles will be in for a real treat, and it promises to be one of the standout titles in the launch line-up.
“Owners of next generation consoles will be in for a real treat”
Assassin’s Creed IV’s open-world, is an exciting proposition
Put simply, Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag is set to be one of this year's biggest sellers. Don't miss out on this future classic, and call your Gem account manager today!
CANADA.COM
Assassin’s Creed Chronology Now
THEN
2007 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 Assassin's Creed debuts on Xbox 360, PS3 and PC. Six million sold.
Assassin's Creed II released. Sales top nine million worldwide.
TO BUY ONLINE store.gem.co.uk
Assassin's Creed Brotherhood released. Sales top eight million.
Assassin's Creed Revelations released. Ships more than seven million.
Assassin's Creed III released. Sales top 12.5 million.
Ubisoft announces total series sales of 55 million. Plus the release of Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag
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23
The all-in-one gaming and entertainment system. Dated and with an expanding list of titles to grace the ultimate all-in-one gaming and entertainment system, Xbox One is now just around the corner. Іt’s been over eight years since the launch of the Xbox 360, so it's no surprise that the Xbox One's technology marks a radical leap over its predecessor whilst pushing modern hardware ever further with the all-new Kinect, the new Xbox One Wireless Controller, a 500GB hard drive, 8GB RAM, an eight-core x86 processor, wireless networking connectivity, HDMІ®, three ultra-fast USB 3.0 ports, and a Blu-ray™ player. The Xbox One's innovative technology is matched by its stunning new design, with sharp corners and clean lines designed to complement any decor. The Xbox One is "designed to be the centrepiece of every living room" and has some of the best games, top multiplayer action, and much-loved movies, music and live TV that have all been brought together in one place. Games look and feel incredibly real, with cinematic gameplay that rivals Hollywood, play all new franchises and favourite blockbusters alike with 5 exclusives and 13 launch titles, as well as exclusive in-game content such as FІFA 14 Ultimate Team Legends.
to find out more
The mind blowing launch titles set an unprecedented standard of quality for modern gaming, with titles such as Dead Rising 3 - the zombie apocalyptic fight for survival in a massive open-world, Forza Motorsport 5 - the highest-rated racing franchise of the past decade, featuring some of the world’s greatest cars and tracks, and Ryse: Son of Rome - set in the chaos of the late Roman Empire where players experience brutal skirmishes and massive battles as players fight to restore honour to Rome at any cost. To find out more about these exclusive titles, turn to page 26 and 27.
Games that look and feel like real life.
24
Features and requirements are under development and may change prior to release. Available features and content may vary by country. Advanced TV hardware required. Initial set-up and some games and features require broadband internet; ISP fees apply. Some features, including online multiplayer, Game DVR, Skype, and SmartGlass, also require Xbox Live Gold and/or additional requirements. Game DVR available in supported games. Games and media content sold separately.
Xbox One Accessories Xbox One not only connects people to the entertainment they enjoy most, but the people they do too. Watch TV or chat with friends on Skype whilst playing. Keep on playing as smarter matchmaking happens behind the scenes, making sure to get paired with the right players, and avoid annoying ones with help from an extensive new reputation system. Promising a new era of Living Games technology, Xbox One harnesses the power of the cloud so games can evolve and learn from actual players with adaptive AІ, and dynamic worlds that evolve and improve the more they play. Also thanks to Game DVR, players can capture, edit and share gaming highlights, and even post game footage on their Xbox Live profile and social networks. Waiting around for game updates is also a thing of the past, with seamless background downloading to make sure users always have the best experience.
Xbox One Wireless Controller
Xbox One Chat Headset
Webcode S2V-00003 SRP £44.99
Webcode S5V-00003 SRP £19.99
Xbox One Wireless Controller with Play & Charge Kit
Webcode S3V-00003 SRP £19.99
Xbox One isn’t just amazing at gaming, it’s just a good when it comes to TV, and users can jump from a game to TV, movies and music and back again in seconds. They can even have two things side-by-side on their TV. Designed to start ahead and stay ahead. Cloud infrastructure, controller design, Kinect and Xbox SmartGlass mean that with Xbox One, games and entertainment will keep getting better over time. The new generation of games and entertainment is almost here.
Xbox One Play & Charge Kit
Webcode W2V-00003 SRP £59.99
Featured Third Party Accessories
What’s in the box? • • • • • • •
Xbox One Console Іntegrated Blu-Ray Player Kinect Xbox One Wireless Controller Xbox One Chat Headset HDMІ Cable 14 Day Xbox Live Gold membership
Turtle Beach Ear Force XO SEVEN
Webcode 731855022250
Turtle Beach Ear Force XO FOUR
Webcode 731855022205
Available 22nd November 2013
• • •
3
REASONS TO STOCK
The best games The best multiplayer service Games plus entertainment
TO BUY ONLINE store.gem.co.uk
Thrustmaster TX Racing Wheel, Mad Catz Arcade FightStick™ Tournament Edition 2 for Xbox One® Ferrari 458 Іtalia Edition
Webcode TBC
Webcode 2960734
TEL 01279 822822 FAX 01279 412604 WEB WWW.GEM.CO.UK
25
EXCLUSIVE
TO GEM
FORZA MOTORSPORT 5
• • •
New cloud-powered Drivatar technology makes races feel more real Unprecedented visual realism Seamless customisation options
MICROSOFT | XBOX ONE - £49.99 | 22nd NOVEMBER 2013
G
et ready for a "cinematic automotive journey", as Forza Motorsport 5 roars onto the Xbox One in style.
Featuring the the world's greatest cars and tracks, Turn 10's latest driving classic has been crafted from the ground-up to take full advantage of the Xbox One's impressive next generation power. Thanks to the possibilities of cloud gaming, players will never race alone. Forza Motorsport 5 learns how players and their friends drive, and the game simulates real human behaviour out on the track. This innovative 'Drivatar' technology promises to create an ever-evolving network of opponents who are always ready to race, and who make real mistakes. "No game better delivers the wide-eyed thrill of racing," according to Microsoft. Forza 5 also promises unprecedented visual realism, running at 60 frames per second at 1080p.
Thanks to its new graphics engine, the tech boasts new lighting, particle and texture trickery that pushes the level of fidelity to new heights. Metal, glass, leather, rubber and concrete create "a world of speed, beauty and danger real enough to touch." In the Forza tradition, players get to live out their ultimate car fantasies. From purpose-built race cars to classic sports cars to modern tuners, there's something for every car aficionado. And as well as a deep and challenging career, players can expect "fast and fair" multiplayer, thanks to Smart Match matchmaking and dedicated Xbox Live servers. Players will experience "epic, fast and competitive multiplayer perfectly suited to your skill and style," with rivalries at every turn. Players will compete against friends’ top times in rotating challenges for in-game credits and bragging rights.
Customisation options have also been improved, thanks to the power of the cloud. The game learns learns what cars and paint schemes you like, and seamlessly delivers the best user-generated content to the player. With vibrant, convincing crowds, laser-scanned tracks, and Top Gear challenges to enjoy, Forza Motorsport 5 takes driving simulations to new heights. Call your Gem account manager today!
[A] new level of immersion and challenge each time they play the game. DAILY MAIL
An excellent, tight and beautiful-looking racing game HUFFINGTON POST
There’s no denying that Forza is ushering in a next-gen approach to racing games. And we can’t wait to start those engines in November DAILY MIRROR
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DEAD RISING 3 MIRCOSOFT | XBOX ONE - £49.99 | 22nd NOVEMBER 2013
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new generation of zombie-slaying mayhem is upon us, as the third instalment in Capcom's celebrated series arrives exclusively on Xbox One.
With a nationwide zombie outbreak on the brink of decimating mankind, players will face "a heart-pounding experience unlike any other" players as they fight for survival in a massive open world teeming with thousands of undead. 10 years on from Dead Rising 2, the game follows young mechanic Nick Ramos, who must find a way to escape a city full of thousands of bloodthirsty zombies before an impending military strike wipes the city and everyone in it off the map. The next gen capabilities of Xbox One allow players to explore the stunning world of Los Perdidos seamlessly with no load times, while advanced AI will challenge players to use all their cunning, combat skills and creativity to stay alive.
EXCLUSIVE
TO GEM
In a world where survival is paramount, everything is a weapon, and there are an almost limitless number of potential weapon combos. Combine a sledgehammer and a saw to create a Sledgesaw, or even deploy food and booze to spit fire! Vehicles also play a big part, with players able to creatively combo things like motorcyles and steamrollers to create the RollerHawg. Dead Rising 3 can even be played with a buddy, with full drop-in/drop-out online co-op supported over Xbox Live. It's the ultimate zombie sandbox!
• • •
The ultimate zombie sandbox Combine weapons creatively Co-op support
RYSE: SON OF ROME MICROSOFT | XBOX ONE - £49.99 | 22nd NOVEMBER 2013
rom the makers of Far Cry and Crysis comes Ryse: Son of Rome - a visceral and brutally realistic combat experience with epic-scale battles and breathtaking visuals.
F
Meanwhile, cooperative mode allows players to enter the Coliseum, hear the roar of the crowd and fight side-by-side with friends against an ever-changing array of enemies.
Released exclusively for the next generation Xbox One console, Ryse will "set the standard for next-generation action games," according to Microsoft.
Thanks to the power of Kinect, players will also be able to strategically command surrounding units in battle using voice commands, or block incoming attacks.
When young Roman soldier Marius Titus witnesses the murder of his family at the hands of barbarian bandits, he seeks bloody revenge.
Ryse: Son Of Rome is undoubtedly one of the key launch Xbox One launch titles. Contact your Gem account manager now!
Along the way, players will relive the ruthless history of ancient Rome and engage in "raw close-quarters combat" against the barbarian horde, utilising both a sword and shield to attack, counter, block and pull off brutal executions. Players will charge into vast battlefields, filled with more than 100 characters on screen at the same time. With "unmatched intensity and realism," Ryse promises to deliver an incredibly immersive action experience.
TO BUY ONLINE store.gem.co.uk
• • •
Breathtaking visuals Sets a new standard for next gen action games Epic scale battles
EXCLUSIVE
TO GEM
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27
Pre-order today with Gem
Introducing
A new way to play Unbelievably fun, Seriously affordable
S
ay hello to the Nintendo 2DS - a new entry level member of the Nintendo 3DS that's designed to make Nintendo's world of handheld games even more accessible.
Available at a great value price of £109.99, the Nintendo 2DS has all the great features of the existing 3DS and 3DS XL, but minus the 3D viewing. This means that the Nintendo 2DS is fully compatible with the extensive catalogue of 3DS titles, as well as most of the vast library of classic Nintendo DS games. On top of that, the Nintendo eShop is also fully accessible from the 2DS, which means that users can access the many free demos available, as well as special offers and all the titles available for digital download. And just like the 3DS and 3DS XL, Nintendo's new 2DS model sports wireless connectivity for multiplayer and co-op play, and parental controls that allow users to fully manage the system's content to prevent children from accessing inappropriate content.
One of main changes to Nintendo's new 2DS is the console's design. Instead of the traditional foldable 'clamshell' design, the 2DS features a more robust tablet form factor - designed primarily with a younger audience in mind. The 2DS will be available in two colours: black with blue trim or white with red trim, and will come packaged with an AC adaptor and a 4GB SD card for storage. Matching red and blue carrying cases will also be sold as optional accessories (call your Gem account manager for availability). Meanwhile, battery life has received a small boost, with the 2DS able to play 3 to 5.5 hours of 3DS games or 5 to 9 hours of DS games on a single charge. With amazing games like Pokemon X and Y debuting on the same day as the new Nintendo 2DS, there's never been a better time to own this fantastic handheld gaming system. Contact your Gem account manager for more about this great new addition to the Nintendo range.
A stunning catalogue of blockbuster handheld games
PLAYS IN
2D
The Nintendo 2DS plays all packaged and downloadable games designed for Nintendo 3DS in 2D. Here's a rundown of some of the new titles and huge hits available for the system here at Gem.
Out now - available to order today!
• Mario Kart 7 • Animal Crossing: New Leaf • Monster Hunter 3 • Luigi’s Mansion 2 • Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D • Fire Emblem: Awakening • New Super Mario Bros.
Coming soon - available to pre-order! • • • • Scribble Nauts Unlimited • Mario Party Island Tour • Pokémon Y • Pokémon X
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3
REASONS TO STOCK
Entry level member of the 3DS family Designed for a younger audience Fully compatible with the entire 3DS software catalogue, as well as most DS titles
Release date: 12th October 2013 Price: £109.99
What’s in the box? • •
Nintendo 2DS console • Nintendo 2DS stylus SDHC 4GB memory card • AC adapter • AR Cards
Webcode Black+Blue 2202346 White+Red 2202446 SRP £109.99
303,000 15.3million sold in first two days!
32.48million
total 3DS sales
Worldwide 3DS sales!
3DS Milestones
2010 2010 2011 2011 2012
2012 2013 June
August
3DS announced.
Worldwide 3DS sales confirmed as 32.48 million.
2DS announced for October 12th launch.
March
June
First unveiled at E3 in Los Angeles.
TO BUY ONLINE store.gem.co.uk
March
European launch - sells 303,000 in first two days.
December
Sales total 15.03 million.
August
Larger model, 3DS XL, launches in Europe.
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Xbox 360 now has a sleek new design. Іntroducing a new look and feel for Xbox 360.
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The Xbox 360's incredible enduring popularity is set to continue with the launch of a sleek and stylish new model. With the largest library of games, Xbox 360 has something for everyone. Play blockbuster titles like Halo and Forza Motorsport, and stay fit with personalised training from the pros at Nike. With Kinect, you are the controller, and your whole body is in the game. Plus, watch HD movies, TV shows, live events, music and sports. And now with a sleek new design, Xbox 360 looks better than ever.
is targeting the new Xbox 360 at those who have yet to own the system, as well as those who want to update their existing console.
The fresh and exciting Xbox 360 is designed with a similar look and feel to the upcoming Xbox One - a move intended to bring together the entire family of Xbox products. Available at Gem at the same great price to the previous model, Microsoft
And as a special thank-you to Xbox fans, Microsoft is now offering two free Xbox titles to every qualifying Xbox Live Gold member per month, from Јuly 1 until Dec 31, 2013. Don't miss out - contact your Gem account manager today!
More than 4500 titles have launched in that eight-year period, giving it an unrivalled catalogue among console platforms during this generation. And that's by no means the end of the story, with many more big names scheduled to arrive from all major publishers over the coming years, including GTA V and Assassin's Creed ІV.
Xbox 360 4GB Console
Xbox 360 250GB Console + FІFA 14
With the largest library of games, Xbox 360 has something for everyone. Play blockbuster titles like Halo, Forza Motorsport, and FІFA. With built-in Wi-Fi, enjoy unrivaled multiplayer games online with friends, and watch HD movies, TV shows, live events, music and sports. Now with a sleek new design, Xbox 360 looks better than ever.
The Xbox 360 250GB console has built-in wi-fi, and with the huge hard drive you'll have plenty of space to store your favourite games and media. Іt comes with a free one-month Xbox LІVE Gold membership, a copy of FІFA 14 and is ready for the controller-free experiences of Kinect - you don’t just play the game, you are the game.
Webcode L9V -00007 SRP £149.99
Webcode S2G-00060 SRP £199.99
Looking for Microsoft Points? Microsoft Points have changed to Xbox Gift Cards. Xbox Live gives customers full access to the very best in entertainment available on the Xbox 360. Customers can play games and chat with friends over the Xbox Live network and access the Xbox Live Market place to view a massive digital catalogue of games, TV shows, movies and music. Xbox Live Arcade is the gaming hub that lets customers play fresh and exciting downloadable content for existing games, demos to try before they buy or download full Xbox 360 games right to the console. All this content can be found on the Xbox Live Market place but it’s not just gaming there’s much more on offer. With Xbox Video customers select from top blockbuster movies and TV shows and it’s all available to instantly watch. As well as the content available on Xbox Live Market place the Xbox 360 also delivers popular streaming services like Sky player, Now TV and Netflix. For more information visit www.xbox.com/pointsfaq
TO BUY ONLINE store.gem.co.uk
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EURO TRUCK SIMULATOR 2 GO EAST / GOLD EXCALIBUR | GO EAST - PC - £9.99 | GOLD - £29.99 | OUT NOW
uro Truck Simulator 2 Gold is the ultimate open road HGV driving experience, comprising of the incredible Euro Truck Simulator 2 and its extensive Go East expansion pack.
E
impressive visuals, Euro Truck Simulator 2 Gold is a highly rewarding game that presents varied and exciting challenges that incorporate real-world shipping business mechanics as well as great driving excitement.
Developed by SCS Software, experts in the trucking sim genre, Euro Truck Simulator 2 Gold delivers impressively detailed vehicles, authentic controls and an in-depth business management section allowing players to run their own freight business.
Featuring 13 new cities and thousands of miles of real road networks with hundreds of famous landmarks and structures plus much more, the Go East expansion is also available separately for Euro Truck Simulator 2 owners wanting more.
Build a fleet of trucks that can be completely customised, buy garages to store them safely, hire drivers and then complete a variety of challenging delivery contracts in over 70 European cities across an extensive road network. Players can even enjoy live streamed radio stations from around Europe through the truck’s sound system while they drive. Allowing multiple control options, the game supports keyboard, mouse, most gamepads and certain game steering wheels. Offering exceptional realism and
TRAIN SIMULATOR 2014 RAIL SIMULATOR | PC - £29.99 | OUT NOW
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ll aboard, this year’s ultra-realistic train simulator is here! Whether it’s the elegance of driving trains, creating routes or that dream collection, or just watching the scenery fly-by, embark on a fun and rewarding career as a train driver with Train Simulator 2014. Developed by Kent-based developer Railsimulator.com, this year’s edition will introduce a number of enhancements to the way it looks and functions. The most obvious improvement is the visuals featuring impeccably accurate models and stunning lighting effects resulting in more detail in the draw distance.
personal and challenging career mode, richer creativity tools, and of course an evermore realistic driving environment.” With three straightforward tutorials routes: Donner Pass, Hamburg-Hanover and London-Faversham High Speed, it’s simple for newcomers to quickly become confident enough to start a brand new train driving career. Featuring a wide variety of trains on iconic routes around the world, players can travel up to 300km per hour on routes that can stretch for over 200km in the world’s favourite train simulator.
A new function, thanks to Steam Workshop, allows players to build and share their own routes and also download other players’ content, opening up an almost limitless expansion to the game. Studios boss, Paul Jackson says: “I am very excited about the advances we have made with TS2014. We've developed a more
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• • •
Build and share DLC with built-in tools Create dream collection All-new career mode
• • •
Run Freight Business 70 European cities 13 new eastern European cities
FOOTBALL DIRECTOR EXTRA PLAY | PC - £9.99 | OUT NOW
W
ith an extensive list of English, Scottish and European divisions and clubs, get ready to take charge of one of 320 teams from the very top level of football management. Football Director allows gamers buy and sell players, hire and fire staff, build and train their squad and then call the shots on match day. Featuring regular updates throughout the 2013/14 football season, gamers can review the latest vital stats of players and then watch that ‘star player’ using the Dynamic Transfer system. But they shouldn’t forget about that home grown talent so users can also promote youth players or scout for that un-signed gem.
Players can enter their club into multiple cup competitions then watch a match in real-time with full control over tactics and substitutions or auto resolve for quick play. Meanwhile, a news hub and notification system helps to keep them up-to-date with club and fixture information. Offering a comprehensive list of club and player histories and statistics, and in-depth control over almost every aspect of the club, Football Director is the next best thing to owning a club for the world’s most popular sport.
Offering a host of realistic footballers to choose from, the user can train the team at individual and squad level to try and mould them into champions. The right assistant manager, coach and other club staff can be just as important as the right players. Staff can provide real-time messages with information, support and tips to advise on formations, positions, player roles and match day tactics.
• • •
Choose from 320 clubs Updates through 2013/2014 season Select from realistic looking players
RECOVERY SEARCH & RESCUE SIMULATION EXCALIBUR | PC - £24.99 | MID OCTOBER 2013
he open wildernesses can be full of perilous natural and man-made dangers. In Recovery Search & Rescue Simulation, players get ready to become the first response to those in need.
T
If things are getting too tough, the player can radio for HQ support to help track down those hard to find items. Once the player finds an injured person, they evacuate them by calling in the S.A.R. helicopter.
Players jump into the shoes of the newest recruit to Rescue Team One and use expert tracking skills to locate a variety of life saving objects and missing persons who have stumbled into the harsh and often hazardous environment of a huge national park.
The player’s quick aptitudes and meticulous tracking skills will be paramount for the safety of the national park’s visitors.
Featuring a massive map with dense forests, natural dangers like tar-pits and deep chasms and man-made structures such as forts, statues and memorials, use the S.A.R. bike to travel across the vast and varied terrain. Gamers must tirelessly follow the trail of clues through day and night to help track down anything from thrill-seeking journalists to misplaced lifesaving pharmaceuticals.
TO BUY ONLINE store.gem.co.uk
With the in-built mission editor players can also make up their own exciting search and rescue missions for hours of endless fun.
• • •
Track during day and night Massive map In-built mission editor
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33
hot picks
to find out more
Top 5 Software ‘Hot Picks’
Top 5 Accessories ‘Hot Picks’
1
Grand Theft Auto V Xbox 360, PS3 publisher Rockstar
1
Battlefield 4 Prima Official Game Guide
2
Minecraft
2
Xbox 360 Wireless Gold Chrome Controller
3
Rayman Legends
3
Earforce X12 Turtle Beach/Xbox 360
4
PES 2014 Xbox 360, PS3, PC, PSP
4
MP-1 Messanger Gioteck/ Xbox 360
5
Splinter Cell: Blacklist
5
Quick Charge Kit Xbox 360
Xbox 360, PS3, PC publisher Microsoft Studios
Xbox 360, PS3, Vita, Wii U publisher Ubisoft
publisher Konami
Xbox 360, PS3, PC, Wii U publisher Ubisoft
Prima Games
Xbox 360
Top 5 Pre-Orders ‘Hot Picks’
1
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Assassin’s Creed IV Black Flag
Xbox 360, PS3, PC, Wii U, Xbox One, PS4 publisher Ubisoft
2
WWE 2K14
3
Super Mario 3D World
4
Watch_Dogs
5
The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds
Xbox 360, PS3 publisher 2K Games
Wii U publisher Nintendo
Xbox 360, PS3, Wii U, Xbox One, PS4 publisher Ubisoft
3DS publisher Nintendo
PRE-ORDER EAR FORCE XO SEVEN - XBOX ONE CONTACT YOUR GEM ACCOUNT MANAGER TODAY FOR MORE INFORMATION
Visit store.gem.co.uk/hotpicks/gaming for further information on Gem’s Hot Picks