The Future - August 2010 Edition by Exertis

August 2010

OUT 14th september

pre-order now

t s u g u A h t 16th - 27

lable throughout ai av rs fe of ic st ta er on ation on the fan r account manag For more inform ou y ll ca e as le p , period o.uk/promotions .c this promotional em .g w w w at e go onlin 01279 822822, or . ions apply. while stocks last d an Terms and condit ly on e m ti for a limited Offers available

CONTENTS

FEATURES 08 LOGITECH Enjoy High-Definition video calling with the new Logitech HD Webcams

10 LIVESCRIBE Remember everything you write and hear with the New Echo Smartpen

14 MICROSOFT Back to School with great savings from Microsoft Managing Editor Louise Powell Associate Editor Danielle Govier

24 KANE AND LYNCH 2 A look at the much-anticipated sequel to the widely regarded Kane and Lynch

Design Karl Kisala Sophie Hammond Production Support John Dunn Matt Andrews Peter Cox Gaming Feature Kristan Reed Publisher Gem Creative

Printed in the UK by The Magazine Company PLC www.magprint.co.uk To place an order please call 01279 822822 between 9am-6pm Monday to Friday, or visit www.gem.co.uk to buy online*. To open an account please visit www.gem.co.uk or call our new accounts team on 01279 822800. *Trade account needed

ALSO THIS MONTH 07 SANDISK Do more with SanDisk this term

13 KASPERSKY Essential protection with Kaspersky Anti-Virus for PC and Mac

17 LAPLINK Introducing the new product range from Laplink

21 NETGEAR Turn any electrical outlet into a High-Speed home network connection with NETGEAR Powerline technology

23 EXSPECT Carry, store and charge with the new range of Joystick Junkies Accessories

28 HALO: REACH Pre-order now to receive an exclusive Recon Helmet to download! Gem Distribution Ltd St. George House, Parkway Harlow Business Park Harlow, Essex, CM19 5QF

Telephone numbers Office: +44 01279 822800 Sales: +44 01279 822822 Facsimile numbers Office: +44 01279 416228 Sales: +44 01279 412604

REGULARS 05 WE WANT ONE Let your friends see you in perfect clarity with the Microsoft LifeCam HD-6000

26 GAMES FOCUS Taking a look at the up and coming game releases

CHICAGO ECO

Protect the environment with ECO from PORT Designs

For Port Designs, preserving the ecological heritage for future generations is important and achieving this goal requires everyone’s commitment, individual awareness and long-term contribution. Port’s ECO range is based on a simple idea: using material coming from the plastic of recycled bottles to create environmentally friendly polyester that is certified by OEKO. It takes 24 plastic bottles to create one of Port’s ECO bags, the ECO range is available in a variety of styles including sleeves, top loading bag, clamshell bags or a Back pack and is available in screen sizes from 10-12” through to 18.4”

For more information on the ECO range from PORT please contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or go online at www.gem.co.uk

Microsoft LifeCam HD-6000 For Notebooks Letting friends see you in perfect clarity and High Definition With the Microsoft LifeCam HD-6000 users get more than just a webcam thanks to TrueColour Technology. New from Microsoft, TrueColour Technology automatically delivers bright and colourful video, designed to compensate for the lack of light by increasing the luminosity of content and boosting colour saturation. Offering a 720p high-definition sensor that records HD-quality video at up to 30 frames per second, and 16:9 widescreen video, users of the LifeCam HD-6000 can enjoy cinematic video recording, ensuring that nothing is left out of the image, whilst Auto Focus keeps the video in focus no matter what distance the user is from the LifeCam. Snapshots can be taken at up to 4-megapixels, delivering crystal-clear photographs to share with friends and family. Designed specifically for notebooks, the LifeCam HD-6000 features a sleek 360-degree rotating design that enables user to point the camera anywhere in the room, and comes with a convenient carry case for storage on the go. Available now. Webcode 7PD-00003 SRP ÂŁ49.99

For more information on the new Microsoft LifeCam HD-6000 available from Gem please contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or go online at www.gem.co.uk

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

i 05

Sage 50 Accounts 2010 save 10% off any order 1 August - 31 August 2010 (not just single user)

Accounting software for smarter business thinking Accounting software for small and growing businesses • Cash flow Add a ‘Pay Now’ button and take electronic payments through SagePay* • Cash register Account for cash and floats • Profit See how much you’ll make on each item or order in just one click • Barcodes Create barcodes to track and trace and speed up stock checks • Legislation Complete VAT returns online and stay up to date with European sales laws. *additional charge applies

For more information and to take advantage of this offer today, contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or go online at www.gem.co.uk/sage

SANDISK

Do more with SanDisk this term ®

In preparation for the new school year, SanDisk have selected a few key products that can help students and teachers work, play and save more. With SanDisk high capacity memory cards, users can fully load their phone and take even more pictures on their camera, whilst SanDisk USB Flash Drives allows users to share and back-up all their important ﬁles.

SanDisk Ultra Backup USB Flash Drive

SanDisk MicroSD & SDHC Cards

Back up critical ﬁles at the touch of a button with the SanDisk Ultra Backup USB Flash Drive. With capacities up to 16GB, it is designed to protect users’ most critical documents, photos, music and videos with ease. Added protection is also implemented to keep critical ﬁles safe with password protection and AES hardware encryption.

SanDisk MicroSD and SDHC mobile memory cards use the latest advancements in ﬂash memory technology to deliver the smallest memory card in the world. Measuring about one-fourth of the size of a standard SD card, the microSD card provides high-performance and ample storage for use of media rich ﬁles, such as music, videos, and photographs..

Webcode (16GB) SDCZ40-016G-E11 SRP £52.02 (8GB) SDCZ40-008G-E11 SRP £31.34

Webcode (16GB) SDSDQ-016G-E11M SRP £67.67 (8GB) SDSDQ-008G-E11M SRP £24.80 (4GB) SDSDQ-004G-E11M SRP £13.49 (2GB) SDSDQ-002G-E11M SRP £8.27

SanDisk Cruzer Blade Made to ﬁt in the smallest of pockets, the SanDisk Cruzer Blade USB Flash Drive is the small, swift way to save, transfer and download digital content from computer to computer, or take it on-the-go. The small and portable SanDisk Cruzer Blade USB ﬂash drive is sleek in style and great in value. Webcode (8GB) SDCZ50-008G-E95 SRP £24.29 (4GB) SDCZ50-004G-E95 SRP £13.85 (2GB) SDCZ50-002G-E95 SRP £9.46

SanDisk SDHC memory cards

Xbox 360® USB Flash Drive by SanDisk® Speciﬁcally engineered to deliver a great user experience, the Xbox 360 USB Flash Drive by SanDisk offers portable storage for all a gamers’ Xbox content. Pre-conﬁgured for seamless plug-and-play action, the new driver makes it easier than ever for gamers to take gametags, saved games, map packs and other content with them for fast and convenient access on another Xbox 360 console. Webcode (16GB) SDCZGXB-016G-E11 SRP £59.99 (8GB) SDCZGXB-008G SRP £34.99

The SDHC memory card is a highly secure stamp-sized ﬂash memory card, which can be used in a variety of digital products including digital music players, mobile phones, digital cameras and car navigation systems. Providing optimal performance for digital devices, SanDisk SDHC memory cards also include a security feature for the protection of copyrighted data. Webcode (8GB) SDSDB-8192-E11 SRP £23.07 (4GB) SDSDB-4096-E11 SRP £13.28 (2GB) SDSDB-2048-E11 SRP £8.27

For more information on SanDisk products available from Gem contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or go online at www.gem.co.uk SRPs may vary TEL 01279 822822 FAX 01279 412604 WEB WWW.GEM.CO.UK

Life in HD

Enjoy HighDeďŹ nition video calling with the new LogitechÂŽ HD Webcams

he new Logitech HD webcams feature full 1080p HD recording and 720p

HD video calling, enabling users to enjoy HD in every way. Here we take a

look at what the new range of HD webcams has to offer, and how users can enjoy clear conversations and the best possible video quality in a neat fold-away, pocket-sized design.

LOGITECH

Logitech Vid™ HD Seeing is believing • The fast, free and easy way to make a video call • Quick and easy to set up • Offers a clean and intuitive way to talk • Built into the HD webcam setup For more information visit logitech.com/vid

Logitech HD Pro Webcam C910 The Logitech HD Pro Webcam C910 is high deﬁnition in every way. Record breathtaking widescreen full HD 1080p videos or make a video call in HD 720p on most major Instant Messaging applications and Logitech Vid™ HD, the free, fast and easy way to video call. With just one click of a button users can capture rich, 10-megapixel snapshots to share with friends and family. Easy and fast upload also allows users to publish their photos and videos on Facebook or YouTube with just one click. RightLight 2 technology ensures that poor lighting does not affect video calling, allowing family and friends to see you in perfect clarity. Face-recognition login will also enable the user to log in to their computer and favourite sites. FastAccess face-recognition lets the Logitech webcam detect when the user leaves their computer and can automatically lock their computer to prevent any authorised people from getting access to their data. This process is so seamless that the user will not even know that it’s running, giving them the conﬁdence that comes from using a strong security program. With the included MAGIX photo and video editor users can now cut, edit and combine videos to create incredible videos that capture memories. Webcode 960-000598

SRP £89.99

Logitech HD Webcam C510

Logitech HD Webcam C310

Logitech HD Webcam C270

Stay close to the people you love in smooth HD 720p with the Logitech HD Webcam C510, for portable HD video calling and recording. Built into the setup of the HD Webcam C510, Logitech Vid HD makes video calling free, fast and easy for any user, whilst Logitech Video Effects add an extra dose of fun to video calls. High-deﬁnition 8-megapixel images can also be taken and then shared with friends and family, or uploaded onto Facebook or YouTube with just one click. With a fold-and-go design, users can easily take their HD webcam C510 with them wherever they go. Background noise can be easily eliminated thanks to the built in microphone with Logitech RightSound technology, whilst Logitech RightLight 2 technology automatically adjusts images in dim or poorly backlit settings.

The enhanced high-deﬁnition features of the Logitech HD Webcam C310 provide users with HD video calling and high resolution snapshots at up to 5-megapixels. With built in RightLight 2 technology the HD Webcam C310 produces the best image possible, whilst RightSound technology reduces any annoying background noise to deliver clear conversations. Following a recent collaboration with MAGIX, the HD Webcam C310 also comes with free MAGIX Photo Manager 9 and MAGIX Video Easy, allowing users to edit, combine and cut videos and images to turn ﬂeeting moments into incredible memories. Compatible with most popular instant messengers, the HD Webcam C310 also comes with Logitech Vid HD built into the installation, offering users free, fast and easy HD video calling.

Making HD video calling simple the Logitech HD Webcam C270 offers users clear conversations and the best possible images thanks to RightLight and RightSound technology. Users can enjoy HD 720p video calls on most major instant messaging applications, as well as Logitech Vid HD. Users can also send their families and friends pictures when they don’t have the time to talk or record a video. Pictures can be taken at 3-megapixels with just one click of the button. The Logitech HD Webcam C270 also comes with MAGIX Photo Manager 9 and MAGIX Video Easy, enabling users to edit their video and images to help users get organised and ﬁx minor blemishes in photos.

Webcode 960-000594

Webcode 960-000586

SRP £44.99

Webcode 960-000582

SRP £24.99

SRP £34.99

For more information contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or go online at www.gem.co.uk TEL 01279 822822 FAX 01279 412604 WEB WWW.GEM.CO.UK

Echo Smartpen and accessories coming soon from Livescribe Remembers everything you write and hear All products available from September 1st From the multi award-winning creators of the Livescribe Pulse smartpen comes the newest product in the range the Echo Smartpen, due to be released on 1st September. With new and enhanced features the Echo Smartpen continues to revolutionise the simple act of writing: changing the way that people capture, access and share information with pen and paper.

New! Echo Smartpen With a sleek and ergonomic design the new 8GB Echo Smartpen is the newest product offering to the ever growing Livescribe range. Featuring up to 8GB storage capacity the Echo Smartpen records over 800 hours of audio and thousands of pages of notes, so users will never miss a word. Connection is also made easier with a standard Micro USB that eliminates the need for the docking station that was previously used with the Pulse Smartpen, allowing users to quickly and easily import their audio and pencasts to their Livescribe desktop, whilst the anti-roll design of the Echo Smartpen enables the Smartpen to sit on the desktop comfortably without movement. For more comfortable and convenient use, the Echo Smartpen features a smaller, rubberised grip and standard size 3.5mm audio jack, now compatible with most standard headphones. Webcode APX-00006 SRP £179.99 - Available to pre-order from August 1st.

New! Echo Smartpen features In addition to the visible differences between the Echo and Pulse Smartpens, there are a number of new features that are available. Launch line As one of the new and improved features of Echo Smartpen, launch line gives the user the ability to draw a short line and then write the name of the application they would like to open on the top of it and the double click to select. This new feature saves users having to navigate their way through a list of applications to ﬁnd the one that they would like to use, instead giving the user easy access to any application on their Smartpen. Password protected To protect your information the Echo Smartpen offers the user the ability to password protect their Smartpen. A 4-digit number will then protect the smartpen should it become lost or be stolen. If the user was to forget their password they would have to reset it through their own registered copy of the Livescribe Desktop software, therefore leaving the Smartpen unable to work without the appropriate software. Smartpen name In the case where multiple Smartpen’s are in use the Echo Smartpen allows the user to give their smartpen a name once set up on the Livescribe Desktop. This then eliminates any confusion, particularly in ofﬁces and the classroom.

New! Livescribe Desktop features Organise notes with custom notebooks This new and improved feature enables the user to organise all notebooks by categories rather than having to search through numerous notebooks to find documents. All meeting notes can be kept together in individually labelled folders that offer the user organisation, structure and easy access. Export and import pencasts A pencast allows users to view their notes and drawings easily by simply double-clicking on the file to automatically launch the Livescribe desktop and import the file for use. From there pencast files can be shared to allow other to view the notes as the user would on their desktop. Uploaded pencasts can be seen by anyone with a web browser, whilst exported pencasts require the Livescribe desktop to view. All new software features will be available on Pulse via firmware upgrades on www.livescribe.com

NEW! Echo Smartpen Accessories

LIVESCRIBE

Echo 3-D Recording Earbuds For enhanced recording the Echo 3D earbuds offers stereo recording with microphones in each earbud to capture far away audio such as in large classrooms or speakers on a stage. With anodized aluminum housings the Echo 3D earbuds are the perfect accessory for the Echo Smartpen, and the intra-aural earbud style forms a sealed acoustic chamber to achieve a fuller sound. Three sets of earpiece covers are also included. Webcode AAA-00014 SRP £29.99

Livescribe Executive Folio Cover With the Livescribe executive folio cover users are provided with an elegant solution to carry their Livescribe Smartpen and paper. An elastic band allows users to secure either their Echo or Pulse Smartpen ensuring that their pen remains safe, and offering a solution for both the Echo and Pulse Smartpen. With space to hold either an A5 notebook or hardbound journal, users have a selection of notepads that they can use, whilst convenient business card pockets allow storage of business cards on the go and a ribbon bookmark enables the user to keep track of where they are.

Universal Leather Case With this premium leather case users can be sure to keep their Echo or Pulse Smartpen free from nicks and scratches. The protective ﬂap opens easily and contains a hidden magnetic closure to secure the Smartpen, and a detachable case clip also securely attaches the Smartpen to notebooks, journals, pockets and handbags. Webcode AAA-00017 SRP £24.99

Webcode AAA-00016 SRP £24.99

Livescribe Deluxe Carrying Case

Pro Charging Cradle for Pulse Smartpen

For stylish protection users can rely on, the Livescribe deluxe carrying case offers safe and secure transportation for their Echo or Pulse Smartpen. Made from premium leather the carrying case also features storage for headphones, cables, business cards and spare ink cartridges.

The Pro Charging Cradle is an elegant accessory for the Pulse Smartpen. This allows the user to dock their Pulse Smartpen in the cradle to charge it, transfer notes and recordings to their PC/Notebook and download applications to the smartpen. Not compatible with Echo Smartpen.

Webcode AAA-00015 SRP £24.99

Webcode AAA-00010 SRP £24.99

For more information on Livescribe products available and coming soon from Gem contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or go online at www.gem.co.uk/livescribe Downloadable assets and videos available. TEL 01279 822822 FAX 01279 412604 WEB WWW.GEM.CO.UK

Great savings on

Kaspersky Lab

Kaspersky Anti-Virus 2011 (3 user)

Kaspersky Anti-Virus for Mac

KL1137UBCFS

KL1211UBAFS-MIN

Offers available 2nd August â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 13th August Independent offer only â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Terms and conditions apply

For more information and to buy, please contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or go online at www.gem.co.uk/promotions

KASPERSKY

Kaspersky Anti-Virus ®

Essential Protection

Whether you’re a PC user or a Mac User, Kaspersky Lab have created an Anti-Virus software to suit all needs. Users’ can trust Kaspersky’s award-winning technologies to protect their music, photos, ﬁles and sensitive information, and prevent users’ passing malware threats on to friends and colleagues when exchanging information with other types of computers.

FOR PC ®

Kaspersky Anti-Virus 2011 Kaspersky Anti-Virus 2011 is the backbone of the user’s PC security system, offering real-time automated protection from a range of IT threats. Kaspersky Anti-Virus 2011 provides the basic tools needed to protect their PC. Every time a user visits a web page, opens an email or received an instant message, the program checks it for them, ensuring that only safe content and ﬁles are delivered to them. A specialised scanner detects vulnerabilities in the OS and installed applications, helping them to identify and close any security loopholes and keep their systems protected. Our award-winning technologies work silently in the background whilst users enjoy their digital life. Key Features: • Real-time protection against viruses and spyware • Scanning of websites and emails for malicious code • Protection for your digital identity at all times • Vulnerability scan and treatment advice • Easy-access Desktop gadget

FOR MAC

Kaspersky® Anti-Virus for Mac Kaspersky Anti-Virus for Mac has been developed to meet the specific security requirements of Mac users who know the value of the data stored on their computers, along with the need to keep them running smoothly. Files are scanned when opened, downloaded or saved, to restrict the access to suspicious files and disinfecting them whenever possible. Kaspersky Anti-Virus defends against 30,000 new threats that target other types of computers every day, with updates containing protection against newly identified threats distributed daily (or more often if required). Kaspersky Anti-Virus for Mac is also more than capable of protecting itself, using a variety of techniques to ensure that protection cannot be modified or deleted. Password protection also prevents people or malware from disabling or making changes to your antivirus settings that could leave your Mac more vulnerable to attack. Key Features: • Real-time scanning of files, Internet downloads and mail attachments • Includes latest Kaspersky antivirus technologies for better protection • Fast and non-intrusive with only 1% CPU impact on your Mac performance • Familiar Mac-style appearance and operation • Automatic regular and emergency updates for always-on protection

For more information on Kaspersky products please contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or go online at www.gem.co.uk/kaspersky

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

PROMO

New Term. New Deals. Great savings on high quality, easy-to-use Microsoft peripherals.

Offers available on these products throughout August Independent offer only. Terms and Conditions apply. For more information and to take advantage of these great offers, contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or go online at www.gem.co.uk/promotions

PROMO

Microsoft Wireless Optical Desktop 700

UP TO

% OFF

UP TO

% OFF

Get the reliability that users expect from Microsoft hardware at an extraordinary value with the Microsoft Wireless Optical Desktop 700. This keyboard and optical mouse combine the freedom of wireless with the control of an optical mouse with scroll wheel. Designed to ﬁt the users’ space and life, the compact keyboard frees up space on any desk and is easy to store or for the user to take with them. With easy setup and use, users can just plug in the receiver and start typing; whilst media keys offer control of media activities with the touch of a button. For greater accuracy and control the wireless optical mouse ensures users are comfortable thanks to an ambidextrous design. The scroll wheel also lets users move through their documents quickly without having to click the on-screen scroll bar. • Breakthrough ergonomic design • Most Comfortable keyboard • Optical sensor delivers greater accuracy and control Webcode M7A-00027

UP TO

% 3 3

OFF

Microsoft Comfort Curve Keyboard 2000

Microsoft Basic Optical Mouse

Designed by ergonomic experts, the Microsoft Comfort Curve Keyboard 2000 lets the user work with their hand in a more natural position for greater comfort and productivity. The sleek, compact design of the keys feel and look great, and are designed to withstand an accidental spill. Internet hotkeys can also be found on the keyboard, giving users quick access to the internet. Setting up the Comfort Curve Keyboard 2000 is also easy thanks to plug-and-play technology. • Space saving design • Compact ergonomic keyboard • Ultra thin proﬁle keys

Navigate with better speed, accuracy and reliability with the Basic Optical Mouse with optical sensor that tracks movement on nearly any surface without the hassle of blocked mouse parts. For added comfort the Basic Optical Mouse features an ambidextrous design that allows the user to use the mouse in the hand it feels most comfortable in, whilst customisable buttons also allow the user to get quick access to the media, programs and ﬁles that they use most frequently. • Works on virtually any surface • One-click access to frequently used features • Navigate quickly and easily with convenient scroll wheel

Webcode B2L-00005

Webcode P58-00029 White

UP TO

% OFF

P58-00019 Black

UP TO

% 23

OFF

Microsoft Wired Desktop 600

Microsoft Compact Optical Mouse 500 Special Edition

Combining a sleek design with exceptional value, the Microsoft Wired Desktop 600 offers users a spill-resistant keyboard and optical mouse that delivers all the features anyone could need with Microsoft quality and reliability. • Sleek, compact design • Comfortable ambidextrous mouse • Quiet, touch keys

This affordable, compact mouse with Microsoft Optical Technology delivers precise cursor control on a wide variety of surfaces, is comfortable in either hand and is a premium for space conscious notebook users. • Compact, stylish design • Microsoft Optical technology • Available in 7 colours

Webcode APB-00006

U81-00008 Black U81-00027 White U81-00045 Strawberry Sobert Pink U81-00046 Milk Chocolate U81-00048 Pomegranate Red

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

U81-00044 Creme Brulee U81-00047 Aloe Green

Laplink Software

The leading provider of PC migration, imaging and file synchronisation software for over 25 years.

Automatically Transfer Programs, Files and Settings to a New PC

Advanced Backup and Recovery to Protect Your PC

The Easiest Way to Switch & Sync From PC to Mac®

£29.99

Set it and Forget it: Start the process and walk away, PCmover does the rest

Easy-to-Use: Create full images and complete restorations with the easy-to-use wizard

User-Friendly Interface: Move your files,

Hardware Independent: Restore your entire image to any PC regardless of hardware

Automated File Sync: Automatically synchronise your files and folders daily, weekly or monthly

Multiple Upgrade Options: Moving to a new PC, performing an in-place upgrade or restoring an old Windows image (or hard drive), PCmover does it all Complete Selectivity: Automatically move

the applications, files and folders you choose to your new PC, ready to use

Operating System Independent: Restore a Windows image (or actual hard drive) to a new PC without overwriting your operating system. Includes full selectivity, undo option and more

* Works with Windows Mail, Outlook Express 6 and later, and Outlook 2000 and later. © Copyright 2010 Laplink Software Inc. All rights reserved. Laplink, the Laplink logo, Connect Your World, Laplink DiskImage, PCmover and Switch & Sync are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Laplink Software, Inc. in the United States and/or other countries. Other trademarks, product names, company names, and logos are the property of their respective holder(s).

folders, contacts, emails and calendars to your Mac*

Easy Connectivity: Use a Laplink High-Speed Transfer Cable or a wired / wireless network

LAPLINK

Introducing a new product range from Laplink The leader in PC migration, synchronisation and imaging

Who is Laplink and what are your key products?

An interview with Thomas Koll, Chairman and CEO of Laplink Software, Inc.

Laplink Software, Inc. is a US-based company and has been the industry leader in PC connectivity software for over 25 years. Today, Laplink offers the #1 best selling PC migration software worldwide, PCmover, which is the only migration product on the market with the ability to move application programs – as well as user data and settings – from an old PC to new PC. We also have a new solution for Mac users who are switching from a PC to a Mac, which we call Switch & Sync. Switch & Sync allows the user to easily migrate their data files and settings from PC to Mac, and also provides for easy synchronisation of files and folders between PC and Mac on an on-going basis. Finally, we recently introduced a unique imaging solution – Laplink DiskImage – which provides for easy imaging and restoration of entire systems, and is the only imaging product that has the ability to restore an image to another PC with different hardware and running a different version of Windows. What is Laplink’s strategy for the UK retail channel? First of all, we offer products that are highly differentiated from competing products that are currently available at retail in the UK. For example, PCmover is the only migration solution which can move application programs in an automated fashion – which saves consumers and businesses hours of time and extends the value of their previous software purchases. PCmover currently has over 70% market share in the US retail channel, according to NPD Group (which is the authoritative third party source for retail sales data). Secondly, we offer competitive pricing and discount terms to our retail partners. Thirdly, all of our products are wizard-based and very easy for consumers to use, and we back all of our products with free online technical support and 25 years of experience working with retail channel partners and customers. What exactly is “PC migration” and why should consumers or small businesses care about it? Customers who buy new PCs face the unpleasant task of having to spend hours of time hunting down their old CDs, finding serial numbers and product keys, and re-installing applications – if they are lucky enough to find the CDs and product keys – on the new PC. PCmover automates this process for the user and allows them to easily move all of the applications (as well as data, settings, music, photos, bookmarks, etc. ) that they need and want from their old PC to their new PC. For small businesses, PCmover saves both time and money.

Rather than employees or IT staff spending hours of valuable time moving applications and data as they deploy new PCs, they can use PCmover and significantly reduce the cost of new PC deployment. What about users who are switching from PC to Mac? With the increasing number of customers switching from PC to Mac, we made the decision to develop our first-ever product for the Mac: Laplink Switch & Sync. Switch & Sync is the easiest way to switch from your PC to a Mac. You install the software, instantly connect your PC to your Mac using the Laplink cable, and then follow the easy-to-use wizard to automatically copy all your files and folders over to your Mac. After that, you can continue to use Switch & Sync to keep your files and folders up-to-date between PC and Mac, utilising the product’s automated synchronisation, instant connectivity and patented SpeedSync® technology. Why is “imaging” important and how is Laplink DiskImage different or better than other “imaging” products? With all of the valuable data that users store on their PC – personal data, financial information, family photos, music, applications, etc. – system crashes and failures can be devastating if the user has not created an image of their PC which can be easily restored in the event that disaster strikes. This is where Laplink DiskImage comes in. With DiskImage, users can easily create a mirror image of their PC on an external storage device, and then have the ability to restore that image (including operating system, applications, data and settings). DiskImage even includes the ability to restore an image to a PC that is no longer capable of booting Windows, so it is truly a complete disaster recovery solution. In addition, DiskImage includes the unique ability to be able to restore an image to another PC running a different version of Windows, and is the only imaging product on the market that can do this. So, for example, a user might have stored an image from a Windows XP PC, but rather than restoring that image to the same hardware running the same operating system (which most other imaging products would require them to do), using our Laplink DiskImage and our “ImageAssistant” feature, they can now selectively restore the applications, data and settings from a Windows XP image to a Windows 7 PC.

For more information on Laplink contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or go online at www.gem.co.uk

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

Connect with Innovation™

Fantastic Savings with the Net Security Bundle from Gem!

Norton™ Internet Security 2010 with RangeMax USB Adapter and Wireless Modem Router DG834PN Webcode: 5027757022357

RRP £44.99

Limited Stock available Terms, conditions and restrictions apply Whilst stocks last Offer only available for authorised channel resellers Independent offer only For more information and to buy today contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or go online at www.gem.co.uk/promotions

Untitled-1

19/07/2010

11:12

iGo Laptop Charger with iGo Green Technology 速

速

Automatically shuts off when not in use

CMY

Green. The new black. Save Power. Save Money. Save the Planet. For more information on iGo products available from Gem please contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or go online at www.gem.co.uk iGo.com/eu

0710_p02_netgear_Layout 1 14/06/2010 16:33 Page 1

www.netgear.co.uk

Connect with Innovation™

Surf, email, stream HD video, online game, make Internet phone calls–simultaneously

For more information on Netgear products available from Gem contact your account manager on 01279 822822 or go online at ww.gem.co.uk/netgear

Dual Band Wireless-N DSL Gateway

Dual Band Wireless-N Router

• Dual band wireless networks deliver better connections with less interference • Greater bandwidth for high-quality media streaming and better online gaming • 8 internal smart antennas, to optimise signal strength and range • Push ‘N’ Connect using Wi-Fi Protected Setup™ (WPS) allows you to add computers to the network quickly and securely • Convenient one touch on/off switch and Wi-Fi button conserve energy • Automatically upgrades to the latest router firmware • Easy setup with Smart Wizard® installation CD

• New Wireless-N technology delivers exceptional range and speed • “Dual Band” has more channels, less interference and better connections • Wirelessly connect new devices easily and securely with Push ‘N’ Connect • Works with older Wireless-G and newest Wireless-N devices at the same time • No need to remember your security password • For use with other Push ‘N’ Connect supported devices • Easy setup with Smart Wizard® installation CD

Webcode DGND3300-100UKS SRP £109.99

Webcode WNDR3300-100UKS SRP £99.99

NETGEAR

Connect with Innovation™

NETGEARPowerline Turn Any Electrical Outlet into a High-Speed Home Network Connection Home Ofﬁce

NETGEAR Powerline is the perfect product for gamers, combining the speed of a wired connection with the freedom of wireless. With Powerline, gamers have the potential to connect and play at several times the speed that a wireless modem could deliver; ensuring that slow networking speeds never get in the way of a game again. With no software to load, these products truly are plug-and-play, making it really easy to connect PCs, games consoles, set-top boxes and other networking devices to the internet and home network. Powerline maximises the net connection speed no matter where you are in the building; when quite often a wireless modem must be stationed on the other side of the house from where the network device is located.

Router

NETGEAR Powerline, instantly enables you to not only connect at full, rock solid speed, but at potentially several times the speed that a wireless modem could deliver. Suddenly games download faster and there is less lag and higher levels of response in online gaming sessions.

Set-top box

Digital Entertainer

Games Console

NETGEAR Powerline set-up

KEY FEATURES

With easy plug-and-play setup all users are required to do is simply plug the ﬁrst adapter into an electrical outlet near to the wireless router; connecting the two with the supplied Ethernet cable. The second adapter, meanwhile, plugs in near to the games console or other network device that the user wishes to connect to, and again, connection is complete as soon as the user plugs in the other supplied Ethernet cable.

• Up to 200Mbps data rates for faster ﬁle transfers • Connect up to 4 devices on one outlet • Extend your home network using existing powerlines • No setup required just plug and play! • Predictable and dependable network speeds • Conﬁgurable Quality of Service (QoS) for advanced users • Ideal solution for connecting a computer, Media Streamer, 360, PS3 or other network device.

Laptop

Living Room

For more information on NETGEAR Powerline and the products available please contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or go online at www.gem.co.uk

Top NETGEAR Powerline products

Powerline 200 AV Adapter Kit

Powerline 200 AV+ Adapter Kit

The NETGEAR Powerline 200 AV Adpater Kit is HomePlug AV-certiﬁed, featuring up to 200 Mbps performance through Powerline. It’s distinguished by its compact size, which is smaller than a deck of cards and up to 50 percent smaller than competing products. The Powerline 200 AV Adapter Kit is therefore an excellent choice for consumers who are concerned that a Powerline device might block an open power outlet.

The HomePlug-certified NETGEAR Powerline 200 AV+ Adapter Kit shares the same performance and design benefits as the Powerline 200 AV Adapter Kit, but differs from this product by offering a unique integrated filtered power socket for “pass-through” capability. This ensures that customers don’t over exert an existing wall power socket with the adapter, which means they can connect a wider range of power-hungry devices than competing solutions whilst still maintaining the highest performance.

Webcode XAVB2001-100UKS SRP £79.99

Webcode XAVB2501-100UKS SRP £149.99

Powerline AV Adapter Kit with Ethernet Switch NETGEAR’s award-winning Home Theatre Internet Connection Kit makes it possible to connect multiple Ethernet-enabled entertainment devices to the Internet and the home network simultaneously. Enabling highperformance applications such as HD video streaming, Voice over IP, Internet gaming and large ﬁle transfers to networked devices in the home theatre. Advanced energy management capabilities provide automatic port-and-device-level sleep modes and wake-on-activity functionality to reduce overall energy usage. Webcode XAVB1004-100UKS SRP £149.99

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GAMESFoCUS Kane and Lynch 2: Dog Days become drawn into a frenetic tale, full of manic gun battles in crowded neon-lit streets, and classic action-packed setpieces that will live long in the memory.

t's going to be a great month for action gamers, with the release of IO Interactive's much-anticipated sequel to the widely regarded Kane & Lynch. Taking the stylised violence in a bold new direction, Dog Days is heavily influenced by documentary filmmakers, giving it an entirely unique look and feel that works brilliantly with the chaotic subject matter at hand. The story once again follows the criminal activities of the craziest duo in gaming history. On one side, you've got the self-medicating psychopath, Lynch, and on the other, the grudge-bearing exmercenary, Kane. This time around the lead roles have flipped around, with players now taking control of Lynch, as they rampage around Shanghai trying to pull off a massive arms deal, with online and offline co-op now allowing a second player to control Kane. Alongside the visual revamp, the gameplay has been enhanced in a variety of ways, with much-improved cover mechanics, a more satisfying, intuitive shooting system, and a host of other tweaks. For example, players can now use enemies and bystanders as human shields, while players now have a chance to crawl to cover when knocked down. As events spiral out of control, players will

PUBLISHER Square Enix FORMAT Xbox 360 / PS3 / PC RELEASE DATE 20th August 2010 SRP £49.99 (Xbox 360/PS3) £34.99 (PC)

REASONS TO STOCK • Delivers on the promise of the 2007 original • Fantastic gritty visual style • Cinematic narrative • Compelling single player campaign • Numerous innovative multiplayer modes

MULTIPLAYER MAYHEM Arguably one of Kane & Lynch 2's truly outstanding features is its superb suite of multiplayer modes, with three distinct and challenging ways to play. Carrying forth the themes of betrayal and greed of the single player campaign, players have the chance to dive into Fragile Alliance, Undercover Cops or Cops & Robbers. Designed for eight players, Fragile Alliance challenges players with pulling off a daring heist. But rather than simply working together, each player knows full well that other players could stab them in the back and steal their share of the loot. Should a player turn traitor and kill you, you're respawned as a cop and can try and exact revenge by attempting to stop everyone getting away. Undercover cop, meanwhile, has a small twist to Fragile Alliance in that one of the team is cast at random as a double agent working for the law. At some point, they will play their hand and try to stop the heist, lending a furious degree of tension to the proceedings. Finally, Cops & Robbers mode pitches six law enforcers against six criminals, as one side tries to secure the heist, while the other aims to put a stop to it. To ease players into the action, an ofﬂine 'Arcade' mode schools you in the

basics against a series of computercontrolled 'bots'. With online leaderboards available for each map, players can still claim bragging rights, even when they're dishing out the pain to the computer. With compelling single and multiplayer modes for players to enjoy, Kane & Lynch 2 looks to have all bases covered. Due for release on August 20th, call your Gem account manager today, and don't miss out on this essential new release.

ABOUT IO INTERACTIVE

Founded in 1998, this Danish studio has developed a number of hit franchises over the past decade - most notably Hitman, a gritty stealth-based action-adventure series where you play bald-headed assassin, Agent 47. To date, four Hitman titles have been released, with the most recent, Blood Money, arriving in 2006. A longawaited reboot of the popular franchise is due next year. Elsewhere, IO had success with Freedom Fighters back in 2002, while a more child-friendly title, Mini Ninjas hit the shelves last year. Kane & Lynch: Dead Men, arrived in 2007, with its sequel poised for release on August 27th 2010.

IO ON KANE & LYNCH 2 “We believe the unique visuals and relentless gameplay has created an intensity never delivered in a videogame before. In a genre where so many games look and feel the same, Kane & Lynch 2: Dog Days will make people double-take. We think it’s going to make quite an impression.” Niels Jørgensen General Manager of IO Interactive.

PRESSBUZZ Dog Days promises to fulfil Rasmus Poulson's reassurance after the trailer's E3 debut: 'Kane & Lynch 2 will throw you around like a little girl,' he said, 'and you will like it.' Den of Geek

Dogs Days is doing something really unique with it's presentation that I think a lot of people will be able to get into so long as it's given a chance Destructiod

From what we've seen of the multiplayer offering so far, it looks like being one of the most interesting in ages Eurogamer

IO has managed to keep tension up throughout with a selection of effective set-pieces... It's tense, taught and surprisingly engrossing IGN

It is far more ambitious and far more successful than the first title...The unique, gritty visual presentation makes Dog Days stand out; while the authentic recreation of Shanghai is immersive and inviting Joystiq

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PRE-ORDER EXCLUSIVE

EXCLUSIVE MAFIA II T-SHIRT Pre-Order Mafia II from Gem to receive your FREE Mafia II T-shirt!* *Independent offer only â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Terms and Conditions apply. For more information and to pre-order today contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822.

GAMESFoCUS

Mafia II PUBLISHER 2K Games FORMAT Xbox 360, PS3, PC RELEASE DATE 27th August 2010 SRP £49.99 (Xbox 360, PS3) £39.99 (PC)

REASONS TO STOCK • Follow-up to much admired original • More than ﬁve years in the making • Unrivalled in the action adventure category • Brilliant gameplay variety • Slick, cinematic storytelling

2K Games' cinematic opus is nearly upon us, and promises to be one of the action adventure highlights of 2010. It's eight long years since the original first graced the PC with its beautiful but gritty portrayal of the life of a mafioso, and this incredible-looking sequel delivers on that revered title's rich promise in every sense. Due for release on August 27th across not only 360 and PS3, but PC as well, 2K Games' Czech studio (formerly known as Illusion Softworks) has pulled off its masterwork, combining driving, shooting and melee combat elements to great effect. Wrapped up in one of the most crafted, brilliantly directed narratives ever seen in a videogame, Mafia 2 promises to be a true blockbuster gaming experience that mustn't be missed. Alongside titles like Red Dead Redemption, it positively redefines expectations of what constitutes a true modern action-adventure. But the setting is anything but contemporary. Flashing back to an evocative post World War II-era of American Mafioso influence, the game centres on the grim struggles of Italian-American war veteran Vito Scaletta and his associates. Capturing the dark period drama and brutality to perfection, the game follows Vito's struggle to get himself out of post-war poverty. Encompassing the mid 1940s to mid 1950s period, good intentions go sour when he soon becomes caught up in lowly criminal activities with his childhood pal, Joe. With dreams of working their way up to Made Man status, such ambitions don't come without a serious cost. Like the original, the openworld 'Empire Bay' setting for the game is a fictional one, based loosely on American cities like New York, and how they looked in that stylish post-war period. Players can expect a truly "living, breathing metropolis",

with remarkable attention to detail. Elements like the cars, architecture, fashions, music, and even subtle elements like the advertising are depicted with uncanny accuracy, making it a wonderfully evocative, immersive game world quite unlike anything attempted to date. Said to stretch out for 10 square miles, there's a dense urban metropolis to explore, brimming with more than 50 period vehicles to get behind the wheel of, each with authentic handling. Improving exponentially from the 2002 original, 2K Games has also ensured the driving is much more fun and exciting. And yet all these little touches are just the backdrop. The core game itself features intuitive two button context-sensitive melee combat that makes the gameplay approachable to newcomers, while also offering a satisfying system for old hands to appreciate. Gunplay is, of course, also a key element of the game, with a slick cover-based combat system brimming with drama and tension that action adventure fans will adapt to easily. Players can expect numerous iconic weapons from the period, including, of course, the infamous Tommy Gun. Firefights play out with a convincingly movielike quality, with realistic AI providing an intense challenge throughout. Players will enjoy the context sensitive 'action' and 'violent action' mechanics, with a range of options that are both exciting and fun regardless of the situation. In short, Mafia 2 looks like a nailed-down, sure-fire summer blockbuster. Blessed with all the ingredients for a classic, this is a must-stock title. Contact your Gem account manager today.

PRESSBUZZ Trust us, it's got the goods to be one of the year's best action shooters IGN No opportunity to evoke the era is missed, down to the spinning acetate record that serves as a save icon Eurogamer This will be one of the highlights of 2010 VideoGamer Mafia II already looks incredible Games Radar

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PUBLISHER Microsoft FORMAT Xbox 360 RELEASE DATE 14th September 2010 SRP £49.99 (Special Ed.) £59.99 (Limited Ed.) £99.99 (Legendary Ed.) REASONS TO STOCK • Leading multiplayer experience • Best-selling sales assured • Critical acclaim

: HALO REACH ailed as the number one game series of all time, Halo: Reach is a true testament to Bungie’s 10 years of experience, and set to be the biggest title yet. Due for release worldwide on September 14th exclusively on Xbox 360, Microsoft promises Halo: Reach will offer an ‘intense campaign’ with ‘an unparalleled suite of features and stunning new visuals’. Designed as a prequel to the classic 2001 Xbox original, the game is set on an Earth-like colony known as Reach in the year 2552, just prior to the events of Halo: Combat Evolved. With almost the whole of humanity’s interstellar colonies having been wiped out by the Covenant forces, the squad of heroic Spartan soldiers are humanity’s last line of defence between the terrifying Covenant and Earth, and it’s up to you to preserve mankind’s fate.

In the game’s single player campaign, players will assume control of Noble 6, an unnamed new addition to the Noble Team. With the help of Carter-259m Kat-320 and other weapons specialists, the elite unit will form the heart of the game’s epic storyline. In addition, there are a number of new customisation options available that enable gamers to personalise their Spartan armour in a huge variety of ways. With rewards gained for literally everything you do in the game, players will quickly earn credits which allow for even more cosmetic upgrades via the game’s Armoury. The recent multiplayer beta programme attracted an amazing 2.7 million players, with a record breaking 16 million hours of online gameplay logged in just two weeks. All the feedback from this beta campaign is set to enable Bungie to deliver a deﬁnitive online gaming experience when it launches later this year.

GAMESFoCUS

HALO: REACH SPECIAL EDITIONS LIMITED AND LEGENDARY EDITIONS Packed with extras that fans won’t want to miss, Halo: Reach will be available in Limited and Legendary editions that are ﬁlled with content based on the ﬁction of “Halo: Reach” and the “Halo” universe, and are expected to sell out quickly. The Legendary edition is designed for the “Halo” fan who has to have it all. The centrepiece is a collectable 10 inch tall, more than 10 pound statue of the Noble Team, created by the acclaimed designers at McFarlane Toys. Expected to retail at £59.99 and £99.99 respectively, the Limited and Legendary editions include the following exclusive content: HALO: REACH LIMITED EDITION In addition to the game disc and manual, the Limited edition includes:

PRESSBUZZ

PRE-ORDER OFFER

Bungie is set to deliver another deceptively rich multiplayer experience, with enough immediacy to woo the casual crowd but layers of depth that reward the long term player. Eurogamer

PRE-ORDER YOUR STOCK TODAY AND BECOME THE MOST DEDICATED AND DECORATED SPARTAN Receive a token for each unit ordered to download the exclusive Recon helmet. The coveted Recon helmet with the Visor/Blast Shield (stowed) variant is available for use in Halo: Reach’s campaign and multiplayer modes; only available if you pre-order your copy of Halo: Reach before release!

This is one blockbuster game from E3 that will be available in short order

To pre-order NOW contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or go online at www.gem.co.uk/xbox

IGN Bungie is pouring a decade of experience into this, their last outing in the Halo universe, in order to make Reach the definitive Halo game. 1up

• Game disc housed in recovered ONI ”black box” • Artefact bag containing Dr. Halsey’s personal journal and other classiﬁed documents and effects that unravel long held secrets from the “Halo” universe • Exclusive Elite armour set for use in multiplayer modes

HALO: REACH LEGENDARY EDITION The complete “Halo: Reach” collection. In addition to the game disc, manual, the Legendary edition includes: • Artefact bag containing Dr. Halsey’s personal journal and other classiﬁed documents and effects that unravel long held secrets from the “Halo” universe • Noble Team statue expertly crafted by the artisans at McFarlane Toys. Individually moulded, hand-painted and individually numbered, this statue is a must-have for any serious “Halo” fan UNSC-themed custom packaging • An Exclusive multiplayer Spartan armour effect – a ﬂaming helmet (pictured right)

To ensure access to the exclusive armour sets and further content available within the Legendary and Limited Editions Pre-Order NOW!

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

Fable III T

he anticipation is building for the Autumn release of one of Microsoft's big titles of 2010. Confirmed for an October 29th release, the follow-up to the 3.5 millionselling Fable 2 promises to be another thrilling action-RPG.

PUBLISHER Microsoft FORMAT Xbox 360 RELEASE DATE 29th October 2010 SRP £49.99 Standard £59.99 Limited Edition

Due for release on both Xbox 360 and Windows, the third chapter in the acclaimed series invites players to "lead a rebellion, start a revolution, and rule a kingdom." Featuring Lionhead's trademark blend of humour, adventure and drama, players will once again be given the freedom to carve out their own destiny as a hero or villain - and everything in between. Set fifty years after the events of Fable II, players will embark on an epic journey where poverty and injustice blight the kingdom of Albion, and the people are desperate for change. But once you've overthrown the king, whether you go on to rule the land with an iron fist, or become a monarch to serve the people is entirely up to you. Promising improvements in every area, Lionhead chief Peter Molyneux reckons: "There's drama, emotion, a feeling of power and excitement. We're delivering an experience in Fable III that hasn't been seen before." With its Python-inspired British sense of humour, Lionhead has gone all out to recruit a truly star-studded voice cast, including comedy legend John Cleese, Stephen Fry, Jonathan Ross, Ben Kingsley, Bernard Hill and Michael Fassbender.

REASONS TO STOCK • Triple-A sequel to 2008’s huge selling Fable II • Raft of improvements to co-op play, interface and more • Amazing roster of big-name voice talent

Elsewhere, the co-op experience has been dramatically improved, with players now able to wander freely around the gameworld, while a new 3D graphical user interface completely dispenses with boring screens of text and skill trees. Even the levelling up process takes on a sense of drama, with players thrusting their sword into the sky and blasting enemies away when their weapon skill levels up. Two versions of Fable 3 are due for release - the Standard Edition, and the Limited Collector's Edition. Displayed in a distinctive book-style box, it will include a new quest, an exclusive new region, as well as Fable III playing cards, a Guild Seal Coin, a new dog breed and a unique outfit.

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PRESSBUZZ There’s every sign that one of Molyneux’s two great ambitions for the game - to make a sprawling, emergent RPG as approachable and slick as the most mass-market action game - will be realised Eurogamer

It's an interesting extension of an excellent series, and in losing the more explicit RPG trimmings it's gained so much more IGN

With significant gameplay refinements applied to the already solid base of Fable 2, Fable 3 is more than just fan service Joystiq

Everything we see looks stunning. From mistdrenched, far-away caves to the moistened Victorian construction of the canal-side, the vistas in Fable III have really been taken up a notch ComputerAndVideogames.com

The combat was far more enjoyable, and I enjoyed the spell-blending system. I enjoyed Fable 2, but I think Fable 3 is going to be a huge improvement The Escapist

GAMESFoCUS Classic Mario titles Available on DS and Wii Super Mario Galaxy 2 Capturing all the charm and fun of the original, the sequel to the critically-acclaimed Super Mario Galaxy ‘re-energises’ the franchise with an array of wonderfully creative new gravity-defying levels, innovative power-ups and the ability to team-up with his old dinosaur buddy, Yoshi.!

New Super Mario Bros. Mario and friends are back for some action-packed platform fun, offering an exciting mixture of co-operative and competitive multiplayer fun, presented in classic, old-school side-scrolling 2D.

Mario Kart Wii The next generation of Mario Kart features new tracks, new racers, new rides and 12-player racing via Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection that makes for the ultimate Mario racing experience.

Super Mario Galaxy Join Mario as he ushers in a new era of video games, defying gravity across all the planets in the galaxy. Players can run, jump and battle enemies as they explore all the planets in the galaxy.

Mario Party 8 Join Mario, Luigi, Peach and the rest of the crew as they compete across ﬁve brand new game boards and more than 60 new mini-games to win the coveted prize: a year’s supply of candy!

Mario Mania with 25 years of Mario

Mario Kart DS

This month sees the launch of the nostalgia-focused ’25 years of Mario’ campaign, exhibiting the vast appeal of Mario and the extensive range of Mario titles available from Nintendo. Creating a sense of Mario Mania, Nintendo will be making everyone truly feel part of the Mushroom Kingdom, showing how Mario has been part of the family since 1985. Throughout the campaign Nintendo will be visiting key city centre destinations with a portable pop-up mechanics work shop appealing to nostalgic audiences. Also a Mario takeover at Chessington World of Adventures will see a number of bespoke Mario attractions created as well as website takeover, park and road banners, queue TV screen advertising and the opportunity for children to meet Mario and Luigi.

Mario Kart DS will drive players new and old to distraction as they race their way around a selection of tracks, including all-new extravaganzas and time-honoured classics from previous versions of the games.

New Super Mario Bros. DS Boasting incredible 3D graphics to accompany classic 2D gameplay, this fast-paced adventure will have Mario fans cheering as they make their way over ﬁelds, under water, through castles, and into the air.

Relating to a target audience that ranges from 5 to 95, Mario have a number of titles on both Wii and DS that they will feature throughout their campaign. These titles will be used to target speciﬁc audiences, and highlight a number of the titles that are still available.

Mario and Luigi: Bowser’s Inside Story

For more information on the “25 years of Mario” campaign and the titles available please contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or go online at www.gem.co.uk

Set inside Bowser, this hilarious title sees Mario and Luigi trapped inside the guts of Bowser, trying not only to discover a means of getting back into the outside world, but rescuing the ever-hapless Princess Peach along the way.

Super Mario 64 DS Super Mario 64, the genre-deﬁning Nintendo 64 classic, arrives on the Nintendo DS with all-new features that take full advantage of the new portable system's dual screens, Touch Screen and wireless multiplayer capability!

Mario Party DS Tricked once again, Mario and his friends have been shrunk down and tossed aside in a supersized version of the mushroom kingdom – where everyday objects and ordinary enemies have become big problems.

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F1 2010 FORMAT Xbox 360/PS3/PC RELEASE DATE 24th September 2010 PUBLISHER Codemasters SRP £49.99 (Xbox 360/PS3) £39.99 (PC)

The excitement is building for the highly-anticipated next generation Formula One title from Codemasters. With a September 24th release date, Codemasters have begun to show how technical data and real-world drive input power offers authentic gameplay in the latest F1 2010. Giving an intriguing glimpse into the inner workings of one of the world’s most glamorous sports, the game isn’t merely about who’s the quickest around the track, but let’s gamers “Be the Driver, Live the Life”. Here, the developers behind the game give us an insight into how authentic cars and tracks are created.

“Be the Driver, Live the Life”

Track and Cars

Dynamic weather system

Live the Life

To recreate the most authentic Formula One experience for fans, Computer Aided Design (CAD) data and extensive reference photography have been used to accurately simulate the 19 circuits that will host the 2010 FIA Formula One World Championship.

Weather can have a dramatic affect on the outcome of a Formula One race, affecting both the level of control of the cars and race strategy. To deliver the most authentic Formula One experience possible, these effects are fully simulated in F1 2010.

Former Formula One driver Anthony Davidson talks about the driver’s perspective on the look and feel of each circuit in-game: “Driving the real world circuits enables me to give that impression to the guys creating the game,” said Davidson. “There’s all these details that only a driver would know about. For instance, turn eight in Spa; I know straight away any car I have ever driven there always under-steers and it’s knowing that kind of detail as a driver that you can get over into the game. The circuits feel really spot on.”

Anthony Davidson explains that although you have some information about the weather at your disposal, it is how you use that information that is crucial: “The teams know by the radar where the weather is coming from and how long it’s going to last. You’ll be aware of what the weather’s doing roughly, and then you can make your call, just like you would in real life.”

Allowing players to simulate the drivers’ life in the paddock as well as on the track, an extensive career mode lets players interact with their agent, team-mate, engineer and the media as they build a career for themselves. Starting in a lower or middle-tier team aiming to beat your team-mate and rivals, players will need to increase their standing and negotiate new contracts over several seasons. Throughout the career mode media play a signiﬁcant part. Win a few races and suddenly the media will start to show you more interest, however if you start to struggle be prepared for some awkward questions. Finish in the top three in a race and you’ll be able to join in the post-race press conference for TV, living the life of an F1 driver.

Each individual Formula One car is authentically recreated, so even slight differences in design between the teams, such as a variation in wheel-base, are reﬂected in the handling of the car on the track. This will ensure that no two teams in the game will deliver the same driving experience.

Reasons To Stock • Authentic experience • Fully dynamic weather conditions • Accurate simulation of each of the 19 Grand Prix locations

F1 2010’s weather system is fully dynamic, and in career mode the weather mirrors real life conditions which can change at any time, whether between sessions or during the session itself. Authentically reﬂecting the conditions at each of the 19 Grand Prix locations, it means that rain is highly unlikely at Abu Dhabi but conditions can be extremely unpredictable at Silverstone. Players will have to adapt their strategy to accommodate for the unpredictable conditions, having to take a chance on a particular strategy that could lead to them gaining or maybe losing places. Being on the wrong tyres at the wrong time could well ruin the chances of a positive race result.

GAMESFoCUS History of Metroid Metroid (1986) Set on the planet Zebes, the story follows Samus Aran as she attempts to retrieve Metroid creatures that were stolen by Space Pirates. Metroid II: Return of Samus (1991) The story of Metroid II follows the protagonist and playable character Samus Aran, who is sent on a mission to exterminate the Metroid creatures from their home planet SR388 before the antagonistic Space Pirates obtain and use them. Super Metroid (1994) Hailed as one of the best 2D adventures ever, Nintendo's sci-ﬁ epic still provides one of the most thought out and intriguing gameplay experiences around. Metroid Fusion (2002) Metroid Fusion is an outstanding achievement on the Game Boy Advance. Picking up right after where Super Metroid left off, on a routine trip back to planet SR388, Samus is attacked by a never-before-seen life-form dubbed the X parasite.

PUBLISHER Nintendo FORMAT Wii RELEASE DATE 3rd September 2010 SRP £44.99

Metroid: Other M With dramatic new direction for the legendary franchise, Metroid: Other M features a bold new blend between cinematic, storytelling and the best in interactive entertainment. Metroid: Other M takes the best elements of first-person and third-person gaming to create a seamless blend between gameplay, story-telling and dynamic cinematography, that feels like a movie the player can control. Players hold the Wii Remote controller sideways while navigating and battling in 3rd-person. However, at any moment, players can switch immediately to Wii Remote pointer controls to examine and explore the environments in 1st-person perspective. These dynamic change cameras from room to room add a lot to the game’s presentation, making the environment feel more like dramatic set pieces.

REASONS TO STOCK • Awesome new ninja-esque dodge ability • Action-packed adventure • Switch between third and ﬁrst person gaming

For decades, Samus Aran has been known as one of the first female protagonists in video games, and one of the most enigmatic. Having traded her haunted past for the solitary life of a bounty hunter, Samus finally tells her own tale in this revealing, personal story of her failings, her flaws and ultimately her motivation. The story begins immediately following the events of Super Metroid, when a baby Metroid gave its life to protect Samus. With voice acting and a rich story, players learn the engaging back-story of Samus as she weaves through an action-packed adventure aboard the Bottle Ship, a decommissioned space facility, seeing Samus encounter her first mentor and Commanding Officer of the Galactic Federation, Adam Malkovich. An unprecedented collaboration that blends the slick,

action-packed production of the world-renowned Team Ninja development team with the game design talents of the creators of the original Metroid, Metroid: Other M welcomes awesome new ninja-esque dodge ability, dramatic new direction and a deeper look into the story of Samus.

Metroid Prime (2002) Metroid Prime is the ﬁrst of the three part Prime storyline, which takes place between the original Metroid and Metroid II: Return of Samus. The story follows Samus as she battles the Space Pirates and their biological experiments on the planet Tallon IV. Metroid Prime 2: Echoes (2004) The events of Echoes are set 6 months after Metroid Prime. The story follows bounty hunter Samus Aran after she is sent to rescue Galactic Federation Marines from a ship near Aether. Metroid Prime Hunter (2006) Metroid Prime Hunters takes place after Metroid Prime and before Metroid Prime 2: Echoes. Samus Arun must investigate and retrieve the ‘ultimate power’ that resides in the Alimbic solar system. Metroid Prime 3: Corruption (2007) Corruption is set six months after the events of Metroid Prime 2: Echoes. While fending off a Space Pirate assault, Samus and her fellow bounty hunters are attacked by her doppelganger, Dark Samus, who incapacitates them with a mutagenic material called Phazon. Metroid: Other M (2010) The Metroid: Other M story occurs between Super Metroid and Metroid Fusion and focuses on Samus Aran. Known as one of the ﬁrst protagonists in video games, and one of the most enigmatic, Metroid: Other M reveals many details about Samus Aran’s life which have always been a mystery.

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My Fitness Coach: Dance Workout FORMAT Wii RELEASE DATE 27th August 2010 PUBLISHER Ubisoft SRP £19.99

Enjoy complete and fun fitness workouts with My Fitness Coach: Dance Workout. Combining Fitness, Tonic Latin Dance, Boxing and Aerobics users can create their own workout program and challenge themselves or friends with the balance board or the Wii remote to get the higher score.

with a friend. Fun mini games allow you to target specific muscles, taking part in activities including Rodeo, Karate, Sword Fighting, Marathon/Jogging, Jump rope, Canoe, Boxing and Bull Dodging.

With 23 different choreographed dance routines using popular Latin dance styles and Cardio Boxing, players can create a complete cardio program incorporating popular dance styles such as Salsa, Samba, Rumba, Flamenco, Reggaeton and Meringue as well as boxing moves.

Reasons To Stock • Create your own workout program • Includes 23 choreographed dance routines • Attractive in-game track list

With an attractive in-game tracklist including ‘Just Dance’ by Lady Gaga, ‘I will survive’ by Gloria Gaynor and ‘Cosmic girl’ by Jamiroquai players can dance their way to fitness.

Throughout the workout a personal coach gives you personalised advice on your performance. Your coach will motivate you and increase the intensity of your workout based on your performance, following your fitness calendar, calories burned and BMI. Workouts can also be enjoyed with a friend in multiplayer mode, giving you that extra motivation that accompanies working out

Imagine Dream Resort FORMAT DS RELEASE DATE 27th August 2010 PUBLISHER Ubisoft SRP £19.99

With Imagine Dream Resort you will get the chance to create and successfully manage your own unique and beautiful resort. Making sure that your customers have the best holiday ever! As manager of the most beautiful resort in the world, your role will include everything from making room reservations to satisfying unexpected guests’ requests. As the game progresses you will have the chance to expand your resort with new luxurious areas, such as more rooms, pools and sports facilities. You will also have the task of hiring new employees that will keep your guests happy and make sure they are well looked after. To become the perfect holiday-planner for your guests you will be in charge of making sure that your guests are delighted and that their experience fulfils all their personal expectations. Ensure that the appropriate 34

activity is scheduled according to their wishes, and if completed to the highest standard you may get the opportunity to participate in some exclusive activities with your VIP guests. Imagine Dream Resort allows you to create the most unique resort, throw amazing parties and make your guests’ holidays unforgettable. Customise the rooms, beach and nature-park to suit your tastes, whilst truly making this your own dream resort.

Reasons To Stock • Create and manage your own resort • Customise everything to suit your tastes • Make sure your customers have the best holiday ever!

GAMESFoCUS

Art Academy: Learn painting and drawing techniques with step-by-step training FORMAT DS RELEASE DATE 6th August 2010 PUBLISHER Nintendo SRP £29.99

Transform your Nintendo DS Touch Screen into your very own canvas with Art Academy: Learn painting and drawing techniques with step-by-step training. Whether you’re a budding or experienced artist Art Academy uses simple and creative tips and tricks to help you improve, enhance and even learn how to draw and paint. With the easy to follow step-by-step approach to lessons, Art Academy offers lessons and art materials to get you started on your initial artistic journey, as well as offering more advanced art courses for those more adventurous artists, wanting to take their art to the next level. Ten paint tubes make up the game’s basic paint palette and there are 20 empty spaces to allow you to mix your own original colours. You can also control the amount of paint and water on your brush to allow you to create a

variety of different effects in your artwork. The touch screen feature of the Nintendo DS console enables you to effortlessly paint or draw with a range of different pencils and paintbrushes. Whilst a helpful tutor, Vince, is also available to help show you how to use the art materials and what to draw, as well as teaching you art theory and techniques to explore independently. A free paint mode is also available to allow you to freestyle your artwork, letting your imagination run wild.

Reasons To Stock • Nintendo DSi and DSi XL owners can capture images with their in-built camera and redraw them at leisure • Easy to follow step-by-step instructions • Suitable for the whole family

Adventures to go

Family Gameshow

FORMAT PSP RELEASE DATE 20th August 2010 PUBLISHER Funbox Media SRP £19.99

FORMAT Wii RELEASE DATE 13th August 2010 PUBLISHER Funbox Media SRP £19.99

Create your own missions with Adventures to Go, the all new strategy RPG from Funbox. In this humorous and innovative game, players takes control of Finn Courtland and his band of misfits in their quest from fame and riches; doing battle with monsters and demons along the way. Gamers have the opportunity to quickly and easily shape the parameters of their adventures based on the types of monsters to battle, as well as determining the location by mixing up different landscape ingredients to create specific spaces. Strategic grid based battles challenge the player both mentally and physically, by not only doing battle but also thinking strategically and making the best use of each character’s unique skills and abilities. With a huge variety of spells, weapons and monsters players have the opportunity to quickly and easily shape the game to the liking, making gameplay completely individual.

Reasons To Stock • Hours of play • Innovative gameplay • Create your own missions

Become a contestant in the amazing world of Family Gameshow. Packed with quizzes, logic tests, numeracy and general knowledge skill, Family Gameshow is sure to entertain the entire family. The gameshow channel features three shows, each presented by its own charismatic host, including Larry Lightfoot, Tom Wordsworth and Professor Plank. Players can choose the channel that they want to play which includes:

head to head challenges against the other contestants and the clock. Test your logic and observation skills in this quick fire collection of conundrums. So grab your Wii remote and let the fun begin, and with a children vs. adults mode everyone can play to win. Reasons To Stock • Fun for the entire family • Packed with quizzes, word puzzles and logic tests • Choose from 3 gameshows

Control Freak with Larry Lightfoot – If you like being in control this is the perfect game for you. You will have to answer easy, medium or hard general knowledge questions to remain in control of the game. If you don’t like the category why not nominate another contestant and hope you can steal their points. Puzzle Addict with Tom Wordsworth – If you like puzzles you’ll love this channel. Compete against other contestants by playing crosswords, word searches, word jigs and Sudoku puzzles. Brain Strain with Professor Plank – Train your brain with the channel that brings you 35 TEL 01279 822822 FAX 01279 412604 WEB WWW.GEM.CO.UK

3 for 2 with PC Tools*

Get the cheapest product FREE when you buy any 3 units of PC Tools software. For more information and to take advantage of this offer today, contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822.

*Offer only available for authorised channel resellers. Maximum 10 bundles per customer. Independent offer only. Offer only applicable on SKUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 20083793, 20083880 and 20083865. Offer valid from Monday 2nd August until Friday 27th August 2010.

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