Dec/Jan 2012
For more information contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or go online at www.gem.co.uk
CONTENTS
FEATURES
09 KASPERSKY
ONE Universal Security Protection for all your devices
10 MICROSOFT SDA All the hardware you need for a Happy Christmas
14 LOGITECH
Notebook Accessories for the Home, Office and on the Go
18 12 GEMS PROMOTION 10 Great vendors, countless deals for a limited time only
Managing Editor Faye Le Duc Editorial Assistant Julian Cinque Design Sophie Hammond Finn Maclean Production Support John Dunn Matt Andrews Peter Cox Gaming Editor Kristan Reed Publisher Gem Creative 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
Follow Gem.....
@gemdistribution www.facebook.com/gemgroup www.linkedin.com/company/gem-distribution-ltd
20 IHOME
Introducing a new vendor and their exciting range of Apple Accessories
ALSO THIS MONTH 23 EXSPECT
Announcing an energising brand refresh from Exspect
24 NINTENDO
We take a look at one of Nintendo’s highly anticipated releases of the whole year
32 TAKE 2
We take a first look at the long awaited release of Max Payne 3
34 UBISOFT
Assassins Creed: Revelations is finally here
REGULARS 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
05 NEW TO US
Gem proudly presents Urbanista, manufacturers of products to suit the urban lifestyle
07 WE WANT ONE
Check out the new IW1 from iHome, we want one and are sure you will too!
24 GAMES FOCUS
A look at this month’s upcoming releases
Printed in the UK by Cadmium Multimedia
www.cadmiummultimedia.co.uk
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Retail Marketing Trade Marketing Competitive Media Buying Innovative PR Online Design Services Print Design Services Unique In-Store Solutions Dedicated Customer Magazine ‘The Future’ Customised Bundling Bespoke Packaging & Stickers Planograms Social Media
Unique. Bespoke. Flexible. Contact Katie Rawlings Head of Marketing St George House Harlow Business Park Parkway, Harlow, Essex CM19 5QF
(T) (W) (E)
Part of the Gem Group of Companies
+44 (0)1279 822800 www.gem.co.uk/gemcreative katier@gem.co.uk
Follow Us @gemdistribution www.facebook.com/gemgroup www.linkedin.com/company/gem-distribution-ltd
URBANISTA
NEWTOUS
URBANISTA With industry survey’s suggesting that demand for headphones is set to increase by around 8%, we realise that being able to offer you compelling products at all times is vital to the success of your business and category range. The rapid development of new innovative music and communications services for Smartphones has generated high demand for practical, well designed and trendy accessories. Interest in fashion headphones has exploded in recent years. With this in mind we are delighted to announce our new partnership with Urbanista. Launched in 2010 with a compelling range of products, Urbanista focus on design, color and mobility, offering well-crafted products to consumers living an urban lifestyle. The attractive range of headphones is unique, sophisticated and modern but most importantly practical and functional. Urbanista take great care in developing products which look great, not only when in use but on retail displays and in their unique carry cases. The Urbanista Copenhagen is a mid-sized headphone with microphone in a strikingly elegant and unique steel design. Copenhagen comes with a stylish protective box and, to fit modern urban life, the cord has an integrated microphone and a 3.5 mm plug that works with most smartphones and music players on the market.
Supported by For more information on Urbanista, 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
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Enhance your digital life with the new Roxio Creator 2012 range
CREATOR
2012
ROXIO
2012
ROXIO
CREATOR
PRO
Get the essential tools for your digital life with Roxio Creator 2012. Burn, copy, convert and share all your data, music, photo and video files
Get pro quality for your digital life with Roxio Creator 2012 PRO, with all the power of Creator, plus extra applications worth £300*
• New! Video conversion for iPad®, iPhone®, Android™ Smartphones and other devices.
• New! Achieve professional quality audio with iZotope Music and Speech Cleaner. Remove unwanted noise from soundtracks, and easily clean up LPs,cassettes and audio files
• New! Powerful portrait enhancement tools • New! Create photo and video slideshows with any music to share on DVD • New! Convert and create videos in DivX® format for playback on DivX certified devices • Fast and versatile HD video editing and encoding • Create movie magic with a few clicks • Turn your 2D videos into stunning 3D movies
• Create customized soundtracks with SmartSound Sonicfire© Pro; composeyour own unique, royalty-free music soundtracks • New! Choose from a professional soundtrack library of 100 premium audiotracks, featuring Triple Scoop Music, and the SmartSound Easy Livin'collection • New! Spice up your video productions with 14 amazing video effectsincluding: fire, rainfall, snow storm, fireworks, fairy dust, aged film and more • New! Create and watch high-quality DivX video files; Playback your movies on DivX-certified® devices such as the PlayStation® 3, DVD players, mobile phones and more • New! With HDR Express™ vibrant, true and beautiful colours are at your fingertips with this easy to use HDR software from Unified Color
For more information on Roxio products contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or go online at www.gem.co.uk
• Protect Your PC from disasters using BackOnTrack 4 system restore & disaster recovery *Value based on suggested retail prices of components, from US suppliers in June 2011.
iHome iW1 Last month here at Gem, we were presented with the new range from iHome - one of the latest vendors to partner with us this year.
from your iPad docked in the study in your lounge, bedroom or garden or as far as your WiFi signal will reach.
iHome launched in 2005 and in just its first year, became the number one brand in the iPod Electronics market with the iPod Clock Radio becoming and continuing to be the top selling iPod Speaker System in North America. iHome now offers a wide variety of alarm clocks, clock radios, portable speakers, home audio systems, headphones, earbuds, charging stations and computer accessories for iPod, iPhone, and iPad.
The iW1 also supports USB docking so you can play music from you iPod and iPhone whilst charging using any iPod USB sync cable and dock.
You can see more of their range on page 20 but we wanted to share our favourite with you…. The iW1 is an AirPlay speaker system for streaming music from iTunes, iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch using your Wi-Fi network for wireless audio anywhere in the home. The internal rechargeable battery makes it a truly wireless and portable audio solution that you can take anywhere you have Wi-Fi. You can play music
Not only does the functionality of the iW1 make it perfect for everyday use, it also contains impressive technology. The coveted Bongiovi DPS circuitry provides realtime digital signal processing that makes your MP3’s shine and the Dynamic Stereo Sound Two 3” woofers with two 1” high-efficiency tweeters provide full-range audio performance for maximum enjoyment around the home Webcode TBC SRP £299.99
i
For more information on the iHome range, 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
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ONE Universal Security > Easy, one license protection for your devices > Security optimised for each device > Real-time protection against emerging threats
With Kaspersky ONE, users only have to think about security once. Created by Europe’s leading developer of IT security software, Kaspersky ONE is the first product available that represents a universal, one-stop-shop for personal security, protecting any combination of PCs, Macs, Android tablets and smartphones.
3 Devices 1 Year SRP: £59.99 5 Devices 1 Year SRP: £79.99
For more information contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or visit www.gem.co.uk
KASPERSKY
Kaspersky ONE Universal Security One security solution for your devices: PC, Smartphone, Mac or Android Tablet Kaspersky ONE Universal Security With just one license, Kaspersky ONE Universal Security allows you to conveniently secure any combination of your PCs, Macs, Android tablets and smartphones – up to 5. Protect your desktop, two laptops, and two smartphones. Or protect two tablets, two smartphones, and a Mac. Mix and match the award-winning security of Kaspersky Lab to meet your protection needs.
3 Devices 1 Year SRP: £59.99 5 Devices 1 Year SRP: £79.99
Smartphone Protection Mobile is the new hotspot for malware attacks. You face the same vulnerabilities on your Smartphone as you do on your PC, so you should protect it just as vigilantly. Plus, you can block wipe, or find your phone if it’s lost or stolen. Essential mobile security against loss, theft, prying eyes, viruses, and spam.
One Solution Protects Your Digital Devices
Android Tablet Protection
Any connected smart device is continually exposed to new, sophisticated threats on a daily basis. As the use of these devices grows, Kaspersky Lab is there to protect you every step of the way.
You can download the latest Android app in an instant, but you can just as easily download a virus with it. Protect yourself with real-time scanning and frequent over-the-air updates. Immediate virus-scanning of all downloaded files and apps keeps you safe online without slowing you down.
Windows PC Protection You know your PC needs protection. Be sure it’s the world’s finest Windows PC security. Bank, shop, surf, and socialize online knowing you’re protected against all threats – even those that have yet to be discovered. Our innovative Hybrid Protection combines the real-time power of the cloud with our sophisticated protection technologies installed on your PC to deliver a faster, more effective response to today’s complex, ever-evolving threats.
THERE IS A REAL THREAT • • • • • • •
Rapid, real-time reaction to new threats Proactive detection of unknown and emerging malware Advanced identity theft and phishing protection Rollback of harmful malware activity Secure online banking, shopping, and social networking Best-in-class, two-way firewall Award-winning parental controls
Mac Protection The growing popularity of Macs has made them attractive to malware. But even if your Mac isn’t targeted, you can still pass harmful PC viruses along to your family, friends, and colleagues who use PCs. Real-time protection from malware threats that specifically target Macs. Plus, you’ll never pass dangerous malware on to PCs within your network. Kaspersky also provides free technical support for the period of your subscription, via email, live chat, or phone.
For more information on Kaspersky Lab and the products available 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
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The best deals for a Happy Christmas
Merry Christmas from Microsoft! Microsoft ® Wireless Desktop 2000 Put a Guard Dog on Your Desktop
Unlike standard keyboards, the wireless keyboard 2000 features Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), which can help protect personal and business information by encrypting what is typed. This same attractive feature is trusted by the U.S. government to secure their wireless connections. The keyboard has a classic yet refined design that consumers can enjoy with a pillow-textured palm rest offering the ultimate combination of support and comfort. This ergonomically designed keyboard is joined by a full-size, wireless mouse that completes the desktop package in style.
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This mouse that ‘gets things done’ is designed for ultimate usability, featuring enhanced side grips and an ambidextrous design providing full-size comfort in either hand. Four-way scrolling and the aforementioned BlueTrack Technology ™ are in place to aid performance. Perfect for multi-taskers, the Wireless Desktop 2000 also offers Taskbar Favourites for Windows 7 to easily switch between applications. Not only is this Desktop secure, comfortable and convenient - it’s simple to use-just plug in the transceivers and you’re ready to go! Webcode M7J-00020 SRP £39.99
For more information on all products available from Mircosoft contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or go online at www.gem.co.uk
MICROSOFT
Microsoft ® Comfort Mouse 6000 So comfy and easy to use, your other hand will want one, too. So comfy and easy to use, your other hand will want one, too. The Comfort Mouse 6000 is a very technological peripheral including the revolutionary BlueTrack Technology™. This enables consumers to have full use of the mouse on almost any surface that they find themselves using. In addition to this, the CM 6000 offers just as much reassurance and security with it being wired in to take away any battery life issues. Users can personalise the CM 6000 as there are 5 customisable buttons to increase the usability of the shortcut option which truly does allow consumers to do
more, and do it faster. As well as this, there is a well-designed detent scroll wheel that provides effortless comfort and while doing so allows the user to be increasingly accurate. A key feature of the Comfort Mouse 6000 is the noticeably sleek and stylish design, which has grooves and contours to aid users’ right hands in an ever-faster technological environment.
Webcode S7J-00003 SRP £29.99
Microsoft ® Wireless Mobile Mouse 6000 Works on virtually any surface The Microsoft Wireless Mobile Mouse 6000 allows users to comfortably use their computer in more places than ever before, like on granite countertops or carpets, by relying on Microsoft BlueTrack Technology™. The WMM 6000 can make a style statement either at the desk or on the go with this sleek, smooth design, whilst enjoying a wide array of features to get more done. Smooth four-way scrolling makes even the most complex navigation seem like a doddle. This, combined with five programmable buttons to quickly access the applications
and media that is used most often is a recipe for success. When ready to pack up and go, the tiny transceiver is hardly noticeable. Leave it in the computer’s USB port, or tuck it into the bottom of the mouse. There is also a 10 month battery life and 3 year hardware warranty, ensuring that the user is never caught off guard. Webcode MHC-00004 SRP £44.99
Microsoft ® LifeCam Studio The Closest to Being There Consumers can enjoy a superior HD video quality with the LifeCam Studio, which includes a 1080p HD sensor. But this great video is about more than HD, it can also be recorded in 16:9 widescreen. This superb camera keeps the subject crisp with autofocus, from four inches to infinity. Shoot with great accuracy in wide angle with the LifeCam precision glass element lens. And, 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. A built-in High-Fidelity Microphone can be used to bring it all together: the vivid sights, colors, and sounds of real life. Design is slick yet practical as it features a tripod thread, ready to be mounted for the fixed view. Webcode Q2F-00003 SRP £89.99
Microsoft ® LifeCam HD-5000 Sharp Video with Auto Focus All the HD webcam features that could possibly be required are available as users can share each moment as it happens-at a reasonable price. The LifeCam HD-5000 offers a 720p HD sensor and automatically sharpens images with Auto Focus, while TrueColor automatically adjusts exposure for bright, vibrant footage. Plus, the 16:9 widescreen presents a remarkably cinematic feel, right from your desktop or notebook PC. The cinematic feel is emphasised with the sound processed by the built-in unidirectional microphone, inclusive of acoustic noise cancellation.
In terms of product design it is simple yet effective. There is a standalone right-angled base for independent use or alternatively it can easily sit on top of a PC or laptop. Connectivity is high with this particular model as basic video and audio functionality with Windows Live Messenger, AOL, Instant Messenger, Skype and more are available. In addition to this, there are easy links to Windows Live Movie Maker and Photo Gallery for the ultimate in editing and sharing. Webcode 7ND-00003 SRP £49.99
TEL 01279 822822 FAX 01279 412604 WEB WWW.GEM.CO.UK
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THE ROCCAT™
DREAM TEAM WIN MORE WHEN YOUR GEAR TEAMS UP
FEATURING
ROCCAT ™ ISKU ILLUMINATED GAMING KEYBOARD
+
ROCCAT™ KONE[+] MAX CUSTOMIZATION GAMING MOUSE
SCAN HERE
12
ROCCAT™ TALK©
Play faster and aim better with Easy-Shift[+]™ and Easy-Aim when you combine your Isku and Kone[+] with ROCCAT™ TALK©.
AY PL FASTER
Command quicker thanks to perfectly-placed macro keys on the mouse and keyboard: 20 macros in the easy-to-find WASD zone on the Isku and just one Easy-Shift[+]™ key needed for both the Isku and Kone[+] thanks to ROCCAT™ TALK©.
AIM BETTER
DPI
Instantly change the DPI setting on your Kone[+] with a simple press of the Easy-Aim key on your Isku: marksmanship made simple thanks to ROCCAT™ Talk©.
Grab gaming’s biggest stars and most powerful
Because the Isku and the Kone[+] talk to each
weapons: the ROCCAT™ Kone[+] Max Customi-
other using ROCCAT™ TALK© technology – and
zation Gaming Mouse and the new monster of
you can use that communication to get awesome
gaming gear – the ROCCAT™ Isku Illuminated
set bonus gaming advantages that let you com -
Gaming K eyboard. Why are they great together?
mand faster and easier than ever before.
MORE INFO AT WWW.ROCCAT.ORG/TALK
For more information on all products available from Roccat contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or go online at www.gem.co.uk 13
Laptop Attach Logitech shows off its comprehensive range of laptop accessories Notebook Kit MK605 The Logitech Notebook Kit MK605 is the ultimate accessory as it works with virtually any notebook or laptop with its flexible, modular design. Any combination of laptop, mouse, stand and keyboard can be utilised for many requirements from watching movies in bed to sharing photos at the kitchen table to creating a comfortable, organised place to get the job done. All elements of this fantastic notebook kit are a trio of well-designed products beginning with the wireless laser mouse that helps deliver smooth, responsive cursor control. There is a notebook riser that pivots to elevate the users’ machine to one of three angles
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allowing the perfect position to be achieved. Finally the compact, wireless keyboard is ideal for more involved tasks allowing for more comfortable and efficient typing thanks to the full-size layout and included number pad. Bringing it all together is a well-hidden unifying receiver that is small enough to stay in the notebook whilst connecting to the mouse and keyboard – making them both ready whenever required. Webcode 939-000223 SRP £69.99
LOGITECH
V470 Cordless Mouse (White) The fantastic V470 Cordless Laser Mouse connects wirelessly to notebooks enabled with Bluetooth technology, freeing consumers from the hassle of cords and the need for a receiver. This highly technological peripheral has built in laser technology that helps deliver smooth, more precise tracking on nearly any surface. To eliminate surprise there is a low-battery indicator and an on/off switch that will extend battery life. Usability is
high with responsive side-to-side scrolling and the option of zoom whilst the design is sleek and most aesthetically pleasing when finished in this smart gloss white. Webcode (white) 910-000301 SRP £34.99
Wireless Mouse M185 (Blue) The Wireless Mouse M185 is a simple, reliable mouse with the brilliant plug-and-play wireless built-in. Users receive the reliability of a cord with the convenience and freedom of wireless. There is also impressively fast data transmission and virtually no delays or dropouts. A convenient on/off switch and smart sleep mode results in a 1-year battery life that is hard to match and can mean fewer hassles, too. The high quality and reliability that have made Logitech the global leader for mice can be
thoroughly enjoyed, with the welcome addition of a 3year guarantee. The tiny nano receiver works right away without software and is small enough to leave in the USB port so it cannot be misplaced. And on top of that, this ergonomically contoured mouse is effortless to use and remains comfy for hours. Webcode 910-002236 SRP £12.99
Portable Lapdesk N315 The Logitech Portable Lapdesk N315 offers cooling comfort wherever it gets used. This is clear from the design as it allows users to keep comfortable – no matter how they are positioned. In addition to comfort, protection is also a key feature as the heat from the notebook is prevented from reaching the users lap. The desk space itself is generous as it offers complete and firm stability for any notebook of up to 15.6”. The antislip top is also a washable surface making it much easier
to clean. A main feature of the N315 is its retractable mouse pad that lets the consumer use their mouse, even when they do not have a table handy. It is very thin and light thereby increasing portability, particularly when being able to slip it in a laptop bag or sleeve. Webcode 939-000182 SRP £24.99
Stereo Speaker Z110 Connecting to a laptop or netbook could not be simpler. The Stereo Speakers Z110 receive audio through a standard 3.5 mm audio jack and get power from the USB port so audio can instantly be enjoyed with simply the plugging of one wire and one USB. The inspiration behind these great speakers stems from being able to revel in the personal things in life such as favourite music, videos and more. With their compact size, these
speakers are easily portable so music can travel wherever the user goes. Without the need for an external power output and thanks to the cable management system that helps eliminate cord clutter the work station can stay clear. Webcode Green 980-000508 SRP £12.99
Laptop Speaker Z305 The Laptop Speaker Z305 offers all-around sound from your laptop – to go. This highly innovative speaker projects sound 360-degrees and therefore more evenly in all directions, so consumers can enjoy a great listening experience no matter where they are in the room. It attaches securely to most laptops and netbooks, so it can be used anywhere the computer is located - the office, in bed, the airport and more. The plug-and-play USB connection delivers power and pure, digital audio
instantly – without the need for software or an external power supply. The USB cable tucks neatly into the back of the speaker, finishing with a look that's sleek and clutter-free. And when ready to hit the road, this compact speaker fits easily into the included travel case or most laptop bags. Webcode Purple 984-000159 SRP £49.99
Compact Keyboard K300 The fantastic Compact Keyboard K300 offers the ultimate in media control whilst also allowing the user to smarten up their work space with this functional but stylish PC peripheral. It’s easy on the eye, backlit media controls provide an elegant and easy way to access to music, videos and e-mail, with keys that blend cleanly into the streamlined styling. The K300 features a space-saving design with full-size keys that frees up space on the desk – and makes the keyboard easy to store or transport.
A full-size, integrated number pad makes data entry fast and effortless. The ultra-flat profile aids comfortable typing with keys that move quietly and feel great, by helping the user shift their wrists toward a more neutral position. A further benefit is that setup is easy: the K300 works right out of the box, with no software to install. Webcode 920-001488 SRP £19.99
For more information on all products available from Logitech 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
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VIPRE.® Everything you need to protect your computer – and nothing you don’t. © All Rights reserved. Trademarks belong to their respective owners.
For more information on Vipre® products available from Gem contact your account manager on 01279 822822 or go online at www.gem.co.uk
VIPRE
High Performance PC Security from VIPRE Lightweight, highly effective protection which won’t slow your PC VIPRE Internet Security is the highly effective security solution that does not slow down your PC. VIPRE detects, removes and blocks all types of PC threats including viruses, Trojans, suspicious files, spyware, worms, rootkits and more. With a built in firewall and anti-spam solution, VIPRE Internet Security gives you powerful protection. PC security made easy VIPRE is hassle-free to install and use, providing fast and memory efficient protection against malware threats with minimal notifications. Next-generation anti-malware technology VIPRE utilises an advanced technology stack to scan large volumes of information quickly with minimal PC performance impact. The solution detects and blocks viruses, worms, spyware, Trojans, bots and rootkits via a single, powerful anti-malware engine. Antivirus, anti-phishing email security VIPRE includes comprehensive protection against email viruses and phishing scams, with direct support for Outlook, Outlook Express, Windows Mail and any email program that uses POP3 and SMTP. Additionally, the solution strips emails of phishing links – blocking access to phishing websites.
Real-time monitoring and protection
System compatibility
VIPRE monitors and protects against malware threats, including zero-day threats, in real time. It leverages multiple detection methods, such as dynamic code translation, heuristics, behavioral analysis and traditional, signature-based technologies, to analyze malware:
VIPRE is compatible with 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows XP Service Pack 2 or above, Windows Vista, and Windows 7.
• Cobra™ heuristics – Determines if a sample is malware through dynamic pattern assessment • Active Protection™ – Blocks threats in real time with malware detection inside the Windows kernel • MX-Virtualization™ (MX-V) – Observes and analyzes the behavior of potential malware in a virtual environment
VIPRE Internet Security includes all the features of VIPRE Antivirus with the addition of host-based intrusion prevention (HIPS), network intrusion prevention (NIPS), intrusion detection (IDS) and:
Real-time threat data integration Threat definition updates for VIPRE incorporate live threat data from GFI Labs and other sources: • Threat Track™ − GFI Labs data feeds which include the latest malware samples, and suspicious or malicious URLs/IP addresses • GFI SandBox™ – Leading dynamic malware analysis tool that rapidly evaluates large volumes of potential malware samples • ThreatNet™ − VIPRE user community where members share potential threats with GFI malware researchers
Exclusive features in VIPRE Internet Security 2012
• Spam blocking – Anti-spam technology that protects against spam, phishing and malicious URLs • Smarter firewall – Auto-configured firewall that protects against inbound and outbound threats Developed with you in mind, VIPRE Internet Security is easy to understand and use.
For more information on the Vipre range, contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or visit www.gem.co.uk
TEL 01279 822822 FAX 01279 412604 WEB WWW.GEM.CO.UK
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Exclusive offers from Gem
Christmas has come early at Gem! Not to be missed offers available from all of the below vendors on their respective days. Confirmed offers to follow shortly so contact your Gem account manager to find out more MONDAY 5TH DECEMBER
TUESDAY 6TH DECEMBER
WEDNESDAY 7TH DECEMBER
THURSDAY 8TH DECEMBER
FRIDAY 9TH DECEMBER
MONDAY 12TH DECEMBER
TUESDAY 13TH DECEMBER
WEDNESDAY 14TH DECEMBER
THURSDAY 15TH DECEMBER
FRIDAY 16TH DECEMBER
Terms and conditions apply. While stocks last. For more information contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 18
SCAN TO READ TEL 01279 822822 FAX 01279 412604 WEB WWW.GEM.CO.UK
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iHOME
The Top selling iPod Speaker manufacturer in North America and now The Future gives you an insight as to why......
iW1
>
Any music, any room, the wireless iW1 is an Airplay speaker system that uses Wi-Fi to connect, control and play your iTunes anywhere in the home. The built in rechargeable battery makes it a truly portable and wireless audio solution that can be taken anywhere with Wi-Fi. The iW1 also supports USB docking for iPad, iPod and iPhone charging and music playback with any iPod USB sync cable and dock. Complete with remote control and carrying handle, this fantastic wireless innovation real time digital signal processor constantly scans audio and restores details lost in today’s compressed audio formats. It successfully improves intensity, clarity and delivers a deeper, more enriched bass. SRP £299.99 Available January 2012
iA100 > The iA100 is the favourite bedside solution from iHome. This amazing app-enhanced innovation, with iPad charging and docking, Bluetooth 2.1, iHome app-enhancement and Bongiovi Acoustics DPS, is today’s ultimate docking FM clock-radio. Start or end your day just the way you want it to sound with the free iHome+sleep app download which offers custom alarms, sleep stats, social media alerts, weather and much more. With this highly versatile docking system, you can adjust alarms, snooze time and EQ settings via the easy touch interface. Complete with remote control, enjoy your music while keeping your iPad, iPhone or iPod fully charged. The specially designed sealed speaker enclosures deliver astonishing clearness, provision and power whilst the radio allows you to tune in and memorize up to 6 favourite stations. SRP £199.99 Available January 2012
For more information on iHome, contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or visit www.gem.co.uk 20
IHOME
iDM12
iHM79
The iDM12 is the ultimate Bluetooth speaker system which doubles up as an iPad/iPhone stand. Not only do the two active speaker drivers and one passive radiator provide excellent sound that’s perfect for your music, games or apps, it also comes with a built in lithium-ion rechargeable battery so you can enjoy your music on the go without worrying about batteries. The iPad stand, compatible with both the first generation iPad and the iPad 2, has fold out feet for added strength and is magnetised to attach to the speaker unit, making it perfect for travel. Enjoy music practically anywhere with this innovative speaker system, via Bluetooth or wired with an auxiliary cable. With over 3.5 hours of battery usage, 2-colour LED charging, a built in SRS TruBass circuitry enhancing all your audio, not to mention the precision, depth and power of the sound, this rechargeable and portable speaker system is the perfect accessory.
Looking for some mini speakers? Well, look no further, the iHM79 is the perfect solution. These compatible and rechargeable mini speakers are the ideal replacement for laptop speakers. Playing all iPod models and other audio devices, this unique design offers surprisingly robust sound for such a small speaker. These compact speakers attach magnetically in a capsule shape for ultimate portability, then separate and extend for surprisingly big stereo sound. With its long-lasting built in rechargeable lithium battery and pod like shape that fits effortlessly into your palm, these speakers are ideal for travel. Additionally, it also comes with a convenient carry case, making it the perfect travel accessory! SRP £39.99 Available January 2012
SRP £69.99 Available January 2012
iD9SVE
iP15
This sleek and shiny, app-friendly speaker system is the perfect rechargeable speaker system. Enjoy the enhancing bass and overall sound performance with the new iD9SVE. Although designed with the iPad in mind, it also works brilliantly with iPhone and docking iPod models. The iD9SVE can be customized with advanced iHome apps. The free iHome and Sleep app can create alarms, get the local weather and access up to 10,000 internet radio stations from around the globe. As well as all that, the built in lithium-ion battery is rechargeable enabling you to listen to music on the go without having to worry about batteries. Take your music anywhere with this exceptional audio experience.
Add colour and enjoyment to your music with the new iP15. This LED colour changing stereo system with passive subwoofer is perfect for parties and setting the mood. With its five different colour modes: slow fade spectrum, favourite colour pulse to the music, fast change spectrum or no colour, this simple elegant design suits any décor. The universal dock allows all iPhone or docking iPod models to play big, bold stereo sound. Not one to miss out on, brighten and excite your home with this latest contemporary stereo system. SRP £69.99 Available January 2012
SRP £99.99 Available January 2012 TEL 01279 822822 FAX 01279 412604 WEB WWW.GEM.CO.UK
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_Kandies Chat Fun earphones with personal hands-free allowing you to
chat or listen to music on the go at the touch of a button.... The finishing touch to any outfit!
FOR FULL RANGE INFORMATION AND ALL ENQUIRIES CONTACT YOUR ACCOUNT MANAGER Y OUR O GEM A CCOUNT MANA GER ON: 01279 822 822
EXSPECT
Exciting times for Exspect Mobile accessory dominance from Gem’s own brand As mentioned in the November issue of The Future, Exspect has undergone an energising brand refresh and now in addition to the stunning new iPhone 4S accessories, which were the first to release in the new packaging designs. Cases, skins and screen guards are now available for all of the latest and greatest Blackberry and HTC models, as well as one of the highest spec and best rated smart phones on the market, the Samsung Galaxy S II. This showcases Exspect’s commitment to being part of the ever emerging mobile accessory category. Exspect are extremely happy to announce additions with the three recently released blackberry handsets. With Exspect endeavouring to always be the first to market. This was no exception with the latest Blackberry Torch, Curve & Bold as they were manufactured and in stock before any of the handsets themselves were launched. This shows how much importance the brand is attributing to this market category, a segment that is very important to Exspect when considering that it constitutes roughly 27% of their current range. The quality of the new products is now higher than ever before and with mobile handsets becoming more stylish and well designed by the day, consumers are looking for something equally desirable to ensure their product is well protected.
Exspect is a brand that is making serious headway, and the amount of time focused to the mobile accessory category displays this. To keep up to date with any further announcements, product releases and an insight to Exspect ensure you ‘like’ them on Facebook or ‘follow’ them on Twitter.
www.facebook.com/Exspect www.twitter.com/exspectmedia
Some of the handsets catered for can be seen above and for a full selection of Exspect accessories please visit www.exspect.co.uk or www.gem.co.uk
TEL 01279 822822 FAX 01279 412604 WEB WWW.GEM.CO.UK
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SUPER MARIO 3D LAND Mario is back in one of the most highly anticipated releases of the whole year. Designed to showcase the 3D capabilities of the Nintendo 3DS, Super Mario 3D Land promises a new spin on a familiar tale, and reinvents everything fans love about Mario gaming. Developed by the legends over at Nintendo EAD Tokyo, design guru Shigeru Miyamoto describes the game as a fusion of Wii classic Super Mario Galaxy and Super Mario 64, and promises that it will be "completely original". Miyamoto reckons the game is essentially "a 3D Mario that plays as a 2D Mario game," and provides gamers with the first platforming experience that delivers environments in true 3D - but without the need for special glasses. Thanks to this innovative technique, for the first time in the series' history, players will be able to easily see the depth of the land, rather than a rendered 3D game where true depth perception can be difficult. As a result, Nintendo promises that players will experience an "exhilarating new sense of depth, distance and speed while running, jumping and stomping on enemies throughout the levels." In terms of the overall gameplay, Super Mario 3D Land promises to be another outstanding entrant in the legendary series. The game places an emphasis on the side-scrolling, level-based structure of classic Super Mario Bros. titles that we know
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and love, but apes the movement and visual style of 3D Mario titles like Super Mario 64. Super Mario 3D Land has also been inspired by some of the most-loved Mario games of the past, and abilities like the Tanooki tail (last seen in 1990's Super Mario Bros. 3) make a welcome comeback. This raccoon-like tail gives Mario the ability to hover, glide and attack. Mario also gains some awesome new moves, such as the Somersault attack and the dash move. Other iconic power-up suits will also feature, Nintendo has promised, as Mario takes on a wealth of new enemies, including Goombas with Tails and a new Piranha Plant that gobs ink at the camera. Charming. Super Mario 3D Land also delivers fluid, responsive and accurate control, thanks to the 3DS' Circle pad controls, Nintendo has promised. The 3DS' gyroscope controls also play a big part in the game, with special binoculars allowing players to view areas of the level by controlling a first-person camera by physically moving their 3DS console around. The game is also certain to be held up as the 3DS' most striking-looking title yet, with a near Wii-level of fidelity that fans will love. Super Mario 3D Land is one of the hottest titles of the year - don't miss out
SUPER MARIO 3D
SERIES TIMELINE • JUNE 1996: First-ever 3D Mario game, Super Mario 64 released on Nintendo 64 to wild acclaim. • JULY 2002: Super Mario Sunshine released on GameCube. • NOVEMBER 2004: First handheld 3D Mario, Super Mario 64 released on the newly released Nintendo DS. • NOVEMBER 2007: Super Mario Galaxy released on Wii. • MAY 2010: Super Mario Galaxy 2 released on Wii. • NOVEMBER 2011: Super Mario 3D Land released on 3DS.
PUBLISHER Nintendo FORMAT Nintendo 3DS RELEASE DATE 18th November 2011
PRESSBUZZ Super Mario 3D Land is the kind of game that 3DS needs - because above all, it's its own game. It's not a 3D-ified re-release of a classic. It's not the Galaxy sequel we thought we wanted. It's a new kind of Mario for a new console, and that in itself is reason enough to get excited
Nintendo has done masterful work integrating features, adding a newfound sense of depth never before experienced in Mario's 25 plus year history
MODOJO
CVG
Super Mario 3D Land [feels] as you would expect a Mario game to feel: extremely easy to grasp, fun to play, and with a lot of promising potential
This really seems like it takes the mechanics from 3D games like Mario 64 and Mario Galaxy and marries them with the 2D platforming sensibility of SMB and SMB3
GAMESPOT
GAMES RADAR
The scope of these levels, massive in size, on the 3DS was certainly unexpected. Running around, collecting coins, stomping Goombas and Koopa Troopas took a back seat to my inner Magellan as I combed every inch of these beautiful, sprawling locales
Coins, pipes, mushrooms, question-mark blocks, pipes, flagpoles, power-up suits: the vocabulary is always the same. But, like a great writer, Nintendo somehow always manages to knock it together into surprising, delightful passages
JOYSTIQ
REASONS TO STOCK • First Mario title on 3DS • One of the biggest releases of 2011 • Massive marketing push • Combines the best of 2D and 3D Mario gameplay • Universal critical acclaim
EUROGAMER
TEL 01279 822822 FAX 01279 412604 WEB WWW.GEM.CO.UK
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New look 3DS Bundles
An insight into the brand new hardware inclusive of two exciting new console colours The Nintendo 3DS has received rather a lot of media coverage over the last few months and The Future has been no exception to it. Most notably, the October issue front cover was taken over by the Red Nintendo 3DS followed by some editorial content in last month’s November issue. Also in the November issue it was the Nintendo Wii console that was being bundled up with some fantastic games and just in time for Christmas it
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is now the turn of the Nintendo 3DS. Firstly Nintendo offer a pink-tastic bundle including the brand new Coral Pink Nintendo 3DS bundled with Nintendogs + cats. In addition to this, fans can also get themselves excited about the perfect Christmas gift this year as Nintendo have launched Super Mario 3D Land and Ice White Nintendo 3DS bundle.
o A VERY PINK NINTENDO 3DS Now here's a bundle that will tickle you pink. Nintendo is launching a new Coral Pink Nintendo 3DS and as if the brand new colour is not enough incentive they have bundled it with a copy of Nintendogs + cats, offering a purrrrfect gift for Christmas. The great features of the Nintendo 3DS have been well documented. Being the latest handheld console from Nintendo, it offers the most technological portable entertainment with its innovative 3D capabilities without the need for special glasses. You can also take 3D photographs, capture those special moments in 3D video, play a huge range of Nintendo DS and Nintendo DSi games in 2D or access an array of online and downloadable content such as games, demos and movie trailers via the Nintendo eShop. Content like cartoons, music videos and video clips will also download automatically to the console via the SpotPass service, and data can be shared wirelessly with other users via the StreetPass function. Now for the first time, your portable pooch has a feline friend to play with and your puppy can take
walks with you whilst you're on the move! Dog and cat lovers alike will have the chance to carry around their adorable puppy or kitten in their pocket. Nintendogs + cats offers lifelike 3D graphics and interactivity which creates a fully immersive experience. Your cute puppy will seemingly come alive as he recognises your face using the Nintendo 3DS inner camera, follows your head movements and appears to pop out of the screen to lick you. Once you have his attention, use the stylus and microphone to teach him a variety of tricks through voice commands such as "give paw" or "lie down". With a mass of customisation options available; the ability to meet other owners and puppies, swap items and 3D photos via StreetPass; and AR Cards which make your puppy or kitten literally leap around on the table in front of you by using Augmented Reality - this truly has to be seen to be believed. If you already own Nintendogs + cats and like the sound of a Coral Pink Nintendo 3DS, then do not worry as you'll be able to get your paws on your very own Coral Pink console later in the year.
DREAMING OF A WHITE NINTENDO 3DS CHRISTMAS Mario fans will be able to get a white Christmas regardless of any snowfall this year, and that is because Super Mario 3D Land is now bundled with the brand new Ice White Nintendo 3DS. The perfect shade for winter fun, this Nintendo 3DS bundle will help anyone beat those winter blues with a little help from Mario. Super Mario 3D Land is filled with fresh new Mario gameplay and brand new levels that draws on both newer 3D Mario titles such as Super Mario Galaxy Wii and classic side-scrolling Mario titles like Super Mario Bros. and New Super Mario Bros. Everything you love about Mario is back but with some fun new twists exclusive to Nintendo 3DS. Super Mario 3D Land offers something for everyone whether you are new to Mario games or a diehard fan.
Mario comes to life in the palm of your hand in the Mushroom Kingdom for this all-new adventure. Mario's arch rival Bowser is up to his old tricks again, Princess Peach has been kidnapped and only you can rescue her. To help you in your adventure you can use a mixture of brand new and classic abilities such as the Tanooki Suit, Propeller Box, Boomerang Mario and binoculars to name a few. The new Super Mario 3D Land and Ice White Nintendo 3DS bundle is now available however if the Ice White console alone is what you are after then this will be available on its own this month. Featuring a copy of the game and an Ice White Nintendo 3DS, the bundle is the perfect present for any family member this Christmas.
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HALO : COMBAT EVOLVED ANNIVERSARY PUBLISHER Microsoft FORMAT Xbox 360 RELEASE DATE Out now SRP £34.99
H
alo: Combat Evolved Anniversary is a spectacularly re-mastered version of the original Halo campaign, created in celebration of the 10th anniversary of one of the most beloved franchises in gaming history. With a bounty of new features including 3D gaming mode, cooperative play over Xbox LIVE, a bundle of some of the most beloved multiplayer maps in Halo history reimagined for Xbox LIVE, new challenges and a new story to uncover, Halo: Anniversary is a must-have experience, exclusively for Xbox 360 Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary immerses you in the landmark campaign and genre-defining multiplayer game that helped revolutionize the first-person shooter genre and sparked one of the most iconic science-fiction universes of all time.
REASONS TO STOCK • Stunning re-mastered campaign • Extensive marketing support from Microsoft • Online Campaign Co-op • Classic Halo multiplayer maps reimagined
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Once again, gamers can relive the award-winning adventure that defined Halo: Combat Evolved as one of the best games of the decade with breathtaking next-gen graphics and audio, re-mastered for the Xbox 360. Engage in epic-scale battles against the backdrop of the eponymous Halo ringworld, and relive nostalgic memories with the ability to toggle Classic mode to play the original version. Wage battle on six detailed remakes of some of the most beloved Halo multiplayer maps of all time,
and bring the fight to the Covenant on a stunning and resonant new Firefight map. Re-mastered in the Halo: Reach engine and inspired by maps from Halo: Combat Evolved and Halo 2, these iconic battlefields reignite the heart-pounding multiplayer action of the original favorites and let you relive epic confrontations like you’ve never experienced them. Developed in collaboration with Certain Affinity, the new multiplayer maps are included on the Halo: Anniversary game disc, which means players will not need to own the original Halo: Reach game to play. With the Xbox LIVE Gold membership, gamers can for the first time, experience the story that started it all with a friend and launch a cooperative assault against the Covenant, whether you live across the street or halfway around the world. To date, more than 40 million copies of Halo games have been sold worldwide, driving more than 3.3 billion hours of gameplay by people connected to Xbox LIVE. Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary is set to create a new generation of Halo lovers and allow die-hard fans to experience the game like never before.
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KINECT
™
DISNEYLAND ADVENTURES ®
T
his Christmas, Microsoft is casting a magical spell over Kinect lovers across the country with Kinect™ Disneyland® Adventures for Xbox 360.
PUBLISHER Microsoft FORMAT Xbox 360 Kinect RELEASE DATE Out now SRP £39.99
Harnessing the controller-free magic of Kinect for Xbox 360, Kinect™ Disneyland® Adventures allows children, families and Disney fans of all ages to explore Disneyland park, step into adventures based on attractions, engage in challenging quests and interact with beloved Disney characters using their full bodies and voices. As you would expect from any Microsoft title, Kinect™ Disneyland® Adventures delivers an extremely lifelike representation of the Magic Kingdom. Navigating around the park is as simple as pointing in the direction you would like to go, allowing players of all ages to experience the enchanting world in the comfort of their own homes – whether they wish to relive their favourite memories and try out their favourite attractions or customise their own adventure. Set to be one of the best family games out this Christmas, Kinect™ Disneyland® Adventures will enable the whole family to take part. With cooperative play, gamers can partner with their friends and family to go on a captivating journey through the park, enjoying the wonderful world of Alice In Wonderland, battle their way to the island in Pirates of the Caribbean or join Peter Pan to explore Neverland and fight Captain Hook. Using the powers of the award winning Kinect technology, not only can Disneyland fans come face to face with their favourite characters but they can share magical moments too – hugging their favourite magical princess, high-fiving Mickey or Minnie Mouse, collecting priceless autographs, posing for photos and accepting quests.
REASONS TO STOCK • Award winning title for the whole family • Highly accurate representation of Disneyland • First Kinect title to utilise open-world navigation
Each quest given to the player by one of 40 beloved Disney characters further weave adventures based on the park’s attractions into the experience, whether it’s chasing Peter Pans shadow or using your arms to control the speed of the Big Thunder Mountain or outrun a speeding train. Every challenge completed is rewarded with either a Disney themed item, such as gold coins, Xbox 360 achievements or something far more elaborate such as a chance to conduct your own fireworks display over the park. The launch of this fun filled title, promises to captivate and enchant Disney lovers of all ages, even the big kids out there.
TEL 01279 822822 FAX 01279 412604 WEB WWW.GEM.CO.UK
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TOM CLANCY'S PUBLISHER Ubisoft FORMAT Xbox 360, PS3, Wii, PSP, DS RELEASE DATE 9th March 2012 SRP £49.99
GHOST RECON: FUTURE SOLDIER
T
he gripping Ghost Recon series returns to frontline duty with a bang next Spring, with the release of Ghost Recon: Future Soldier.
REASONS TO STOCK • Latest addition to a blockbuster series • First full Ghost Recon title in five years • Huge anticipation, and high profile press coverage expected • Innovative Kinect support allows players to create their own weapons • Extensive multiplayer support
Five years on from Ubisoft's 2007's award-winning strategic shooter, GRAW 2, Ghost Recon: Future Soldier will feature the usual blend of cutting-edge technology, prototype high-tech weaponry, and state-of-the-art single-player and multiplayer modes that has made it such a blockbuster franchise over the past decade. Ubisoft pledges that the fifth game in the series will go beyond the core Ghost Recon franchise and deliver "a fresh gameplay experience, with an unparalleled level of quality that will excite long-time fans and newcomers alike." Set in the escalating political climate of the near future, Future Soldier sees the Ghosts taking on a deadly ultra-nationalist force that has taken control of Russia, and is now looking to invade neighbouring nations. Slipping unseen behind enemy lines, players will take control of an elite four-man Ghost team comprising of a commando, a sniper, a reconnaissance expert, and an engineer. Each with their own specialist roles, this new breed of future soldier comes outfitted with the most comprehensive array of high-tech gear ever assembled. Described as a "character-focused" 10 hour campaign, players will lead Sergeant John Kozak and his veteran team through eight spectacular locales, from the heat and dust of Africa to the icy Arctic Circle.
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Players will be required to become the ultimate “quiet professional”, with unique stealth kills and brutal close-combat moves. Kitted out with cutting-edge, authentic military tech, your team will have more than 50 weapons to choose from. As well as providing thrilling single player gameplay, the 14-mission campaign can be played with up to three human players in co-op, with each required to perform highly-coordinated takedowns and devastating large-scale strikes utilising multiple viewpoints. And to add to the fun, Future Soldier also promises "thrilling and innovative" online multiplayer from Red Storm, the studio behind the critically acclaimed GRAW-series multiplayer modes. Intel and teamwork are said to be at the core of Future Soldier's innovative multiplayer experience, with three classes available: Rifleman, Engineer and Scout. Across the ten multiplayer maps, four games modes will be available, including the classic Siege mode and new exclusive game types. Owners of the innovative Kinect add-on, meanwhile, will benefit from the new Gunsmith customisation mode, that lets players choose from dozens of attachments and components using their voice and hand movements to replace triggers, barrels, stocks and more. With numerous compelling ways to play, Ghost Recon Future Soldier looks certain to be one of the titles to watch in 2012, and a welcome return for a much-loved series.
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PRESSBUZZ "[Gunsmith mode is] an interesting perk that will no doubt help that version pick off a few players that were considering another platform, as it seemingly serves as a great living room demo of the Kinect's capabilities
GAMES RADAR Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon is looking to impress with its slick graphics, smooth controls, and tactical mobility
GAMEFRONT The gunplay itself has a sharp, efficient feel that attests to Ghost Recon's origins as a simulation. Tactical rifles pick out headshots with minimal recoil, and there's a submachine gun in our pocket for close encounters
OXM This is going for the more Call of Duty-style cinematic experience, with everything very stylised and slick
STRATEGY INFORMER
The cover system is amongst the best I’ve used, and is quite possibly as good as anything Epic’s managed in Gears of War. Using cover feels much more natural in this realistic environment
THE SIXTH AXIS [It] may be faster and flashier than its measured, belly-crawling predecessors, but its military hardware is so new and so different that there's no way a whole new clutch and concept of tactics won't spin out of it
EUROGAMER
TEL 01279 822822 FAX 01279 412604 WEB WWW.GEM.CO.UK
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MAX PAYNE 3 H
ard boiled cinematic shooting action returns next Spring, with the long-awaited release of the third episode in Rockstar's critically acclaimed Max Payne series.
Max Payne 3 picks up the tale almost a decade later, and finds the former New York City detective still haunted by the traumatic memories of his past. PUBLISHER Rockstar Games FORMAT Xbox 360, PS3 & PC RELEASE DATE March 2012 SRP £49.99 - TBC
After his life goes from bad to worse, Max begins a new life working in private security, where he protects a wealthy industrialist and his family in Sao Paulo, Brazil. But when gangs target the family under his protection, Max finds himself locked in a familiar life-or-death battle to save his clients and clear his name. Developed across Rockstar Games' network of worldwide studios, this truly collaborative effort picks up from where Remedy left the brand back in 2003.
Gamers will be treated to a truly cinematic single player campaign, and can also look forward to multiplayer gameplay for the first time in the series. Little information has been revealed about the multiplayer as yet, but Rockstar Games has pledged to deliver a "compelling experience that dynamically alters maps and mode progression for all players in a match." Traditional multiplayer modes are promised, in addition to "a deep reward and levelling system, persistent clans and multiple strategic load-out options." In terms of the raw Max Payne 3 experience, gamers can expect a convincing, intense, non-stop action epic, with a movie-style direction.
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New to the series is the cover system, but Rockstar has been keen to stress that the choice whether to use it remains fully in the hands of the player. The game's film-noir influence is set to continue, with Max's ongoing internal monologue shedding light on his strife, and an evolved version of comic book frames to deliver key moments of the story. All round, Max Payne 3 looks certain to deliver another sizeable hit for Rockstar Games, and a fitting next generation reboot to a classic series.
The game promises to be a "seamless, cinematic action experience," thanks to the stunning Natural Motion physics as well as the advances in Rockstar's in-house game engine technology. The actor behind Max, James McCaffrey, not only reprises his role as the voice, but also lends his acting performances to the game this time around. The result offers a refined, all-action shooter, which boasts an extensive range of realistic weaponry, an intuitive cover system as well as the sophisticated 'Bullet-Time' slow-motion shooting mechanics the series if famed for.
REASONS TO STOCK • Latest in the critically acclaimed series • Strong consumer marketing campaign • Series first multiplayer experience
The minute-to-minute gameplay promises to be a fluid, twin stick, dual-wielding blaster, and includes many familiar features, including the intuitive Red Dead Redemption-style weapon selection wheel, a painkiller-based health system, and, the iconic slow-motion 'Bullet Time' combat system.
MAX PAYNE
SERIES TIMELINE •
July 2001: Max Payne debuts to universal critical acclaim on PC.
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2002: Max Payne released on Xbox and PS2.
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October 2003: Max Payne 2 released on PC, with Xbox and PS2 versions following a month later.
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March 2004: Max Payne released on GBA.
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March 2009: Max Payne 3 announced for late 2009 release.
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September 2011: Max Payne 3 unveiled to the press. Max Payne HD announced for mobile phones.
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March 2012: Max Payne 3 released worldwide on Xbox 360, PS3 and PC.
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PRESSBUZZ It’s clear that the shooting has retained the original games’ unique sense of twitchy danger, the presentation just dialled up to hyperactive modern standards
ROCK PAPER SHOTGUN Max Payne 3 could shape up to be the best game in the series. And aside from keeping the series' tone and style mostly intact, the technical work alone is impressive, as are these key things we saw in the game
GAMEPRO Max Payne 3 seems to feel like the real deal. Some things may have changed, but key ingredients are still very much there
VIDEOGAMER Max Payne 3 is still an impressive technical achievement: animation, AI and voice acting all knit together seamlessly, graphically it's beautiful (both in NYC and Sao Paulo), and there are no loading times at all
CVG Max Payne 3 is quite the looker, thanks to some great art direction and terrific animation. Particularly noteworthy is the physics engine, which encourages you to shoot explosives, and generally wreak havoc
SHACKNEWS Max, inspired by the real-life look of voice actor James McCaffrey, is physics-tuned to, well, the max. He walks and falls and flies through the air in slow motion like a human who has all 206 bones to use. What’s seen so far is really a marvel of motion capture and game design
G4TV
Max Payne 3 gave us an amazing creative opportunity to evolve one of our most iconic characters. We’re excited to show fans a modern version of Max that pulls them back into his dark and twisted story SAM HOUSER, FOUNDER OF ROCKSTAR GAMES. TEL 01279 822822 FAX 01279 412604 WEB WWW.GEM.CO.UK
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ASSASSIN’S CREED REVELATIONS PUBLISHER Ubisoft FORMAT Xbox 360, PS3, PC RELEASE DATE Out Now SRP Xbox 360 / PS3 - £49.99 PC - £34.99
REASONS TO STOCK • Fourth part of acclaimed blockbuster series • Improved multiplayer modes • Triple-A marketing push • Will be one of 2011's biggest sellers • Blanket critical acclaim
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A
ssassins Creed is back for the fourth part of what is set to be one of the biggest selling games of 2011; following the critically-acclaimed Brotherhood, Assassins Creed Revelations will not disappoint. Set in 1511 AD, master Assassin Ezio Auditore da Firence finds himself in the heart of Constantinople as he walks through the footsteps of his mentor Altaïr on a journey to discover the truth behind the assassins and the mysteries behind the Templars. Gamers will, once again, find themselves captivated by the intense mix of real world history and global conspiracies as Ezio continues to spearhead a war between the Assassins and the Templars. Ubisoft admits Revelations is "a perilous path," and one that will take Ezio to Constantinople, the heart of the Ottoman Empire, where a growing army of Templars threatens to destabilise the region. Altaïr has secured an ancient artefact within the fortress, a powerful weapon which could end the
Templar and Assassins war forever. Armed with a new arsenal of weapons and abilities, Constantinople will truly come to life in Assassin's Creed: Revelations as gamers navigate through a cauldron of culture, and journey through exquisitely picturesque settings to recover the five ancient seals that hold the keys to the Fortress. Back in the real world, players will find Desmond preparing for his future as he explores the mysterious innards of the Animus in a modern day setting. Following on from the events of Assassin's Creed Brotherhood, he is trapped in the Animus in comatose state, but has found a safe mode known as the 'Black Room'. In this Black Room, Desmond is on a mission to find a memory that links him with Altaïr and Ezio to allow him to regain consciousness. Following on from the success of the multiplayer mode in last year's Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood, the multiplayer mode returns better than ever. Revelations comes complete with even more team modes, and
more enthralling maps and new characters. To add to the multiplayer experience, players will be able to customise various elements of their characters' appearance and weapons, as well as form their own guild and create a unique coat of arms. Ubisoft has also promised enhanced matchmaking and new multiplayer modes added, including story-oriented quests, as well as a Capture the Flag mode. Launched in 2007, the first three Assassin’s Creed games have sold more than 28 million units worldwide, and the franchise is now established as one of the best-selling series on next generation consoles. Recognised for having some of the richest, most engrossing storytelling in the industry; Assassins Creed: Revelations will be one of the biggest selling and most critically acclaimed titles of 2011. Talk to your account manager now for more information don't miss out!
OUT NOW
For more information contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or go online at www.gem.co.uk
Affordable Audio. For more information and to find out more about the SPEEDLINK range, contact your Gem account manager or visit www.gem.co.uk