February 2010
COMING SOON FROM
WEBROOT
A new wave in PC security technology ALSO The Future takes a closer look at all the hot announcements from CES 2010, great promotions available throughout February and the key releases of month
Great savings from Sage 10% OFF Instant Accounts Plus
Offer available throughout February A simple but powerful accounting package ideal for small businesses starting to experience growth. Sage Instant Accounts Plus gives users the tools they need to deal with everything from basic bookkeeping to analysis of customers, suppliers, products and financial health. Plus, first-time buyers get one-year's SageCover Online Support. With all the benefits of Sage Instant Accounts, this software gives users the ability to manage their stock and see business summaries at a glance. Two people can access the system simultaneously and advanced reporting offers them more in-depth business insight.
Terms and conditions apply. For more information contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822, or visit www.gem.co.uk/sage
CONTENTS
FEATURES 06 CES 2010 ROUND-UP A look at the hot announcements from CES 2010
10 WEBROOT A closer look at Webroot’s plans or the future Managing Editor Louise Powell Associate Editor Danielle Govier Design Karl Kisala Sophie Hammond Production Support John Dunn Matt Andrews Peter Cox
16 LOGITECH GAMING The latest accessories to help get the most out of any notebook
22 BIOSHOCK 2 The long-awaited release of Bioshock 2
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 15 SYMANTEC Automatic, safe and secure backup from Norton
19 FEB FRENZY Feb Frenzy’s Back! Contact us for great offers running throughout the Month
21 SANDISK Taking memory to the next level
24 CODEMASTERS The big titles still available from Codemasters
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
05 WE WANT ONE Make home storage easy with Netgear Stora
30 GAMES FOCUS Take a look at the latest game releases
Facsimile numbers Office: +44 01279 416228 Sales: +44 01279 412604
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Webroot
Changing the way the Internet is used
Webroot® Internet Security Complete Protects the things that matter most to you – your identity, privacy and personal information. Anytime, anywhere.
Webroot® Internet Security Essentials
Webroot® Anti Virus with Spy Sweeper®
Offers high performance protection for your PCs and personal files
Award-winning protection against viruses and spyware
For more information contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or visit www.gem.co.uk/webroot
Webroot® Spy Sweeper® Catches the spyware other programs miss
Webroot® Window Washer® Prevents identity theft and improves PC performance
COMING SOON Webroot Partner Program Pre-register* at http://sell.webroot.com. Enjoy up to 25% renewal revenue share, marketing tools and MDF.
© 2010 Webroot Software, Inc. All rights reserved. Webroot and the Webroot icon are trademarks or registered trademarks of Webroot Software, Inc. in the United States and/or other countries. * First 100 registrations get a FREE, fully stocked FSDU (Terms and Conditions apply).
Netgear MS2110 Stora Making home storage as easy as ABC! The fast, stylish and easy to use Netgear Stora finally makes home network storage comprehensive and easy to understand. The Netgear Stora lets the user store, share and protect music, movies, photos and data using any device in the home network including Windows PCs, Macs, games consoles and even TVs. Share photos and videos with friends and family over the internet, and drop photos onto social networking sites with ease. The Stora also allows the user to automate backup from PCs and Macs into the home to eliminate data loss worries, and even supports a second hard drive that mirrors the first, ensuring greater reliability for those irreplaceable assets. SRP ÂŁ174.99 Webcode MS2110-100UKS
For more information and to buy today 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
05
CES2010 ROUNDUP The Microsoft Roundup Microsoft once again used the International Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas as a platform to update the trade on its plans for the year, as well as delivering an overview on its recent performance. Kristan Reed looks at the key headlines from the event...
Project Natal Top of Microsoft's gaming agenda for 2010 and beyond is undoubtedly its revolutionary Project Natal add-on for the Xbox 360, a unique camera peripheral which maps a user's full body movements in 3D without the need for a controller. Taking motion-sensing gaming to the next generation, the device not only tracks body movement from head to toe, but boasts face and voice recognition, allowing players to actually speak to players in-game.
Although unwilling to nail down a specific date or price for its hotly anticipated release, Microsoft is promising that Natal will hit in time for Christmas 2010. Sources in the games trade are predicting that the price will be between the £30 and £50 mark.
Game Room Hot on Natal's heels was Game Room. Billed as "the place to relive the glory days of arcade games" it essentially turns your 360 or PC into a Virtual Arcade, breathing new life into classic retro games we know and love. Upon entering the 'Game Room', players will be able to explore the confines of their own customised arcade in full 3D with their own personalised Xbox Avatar. Some 30 classic arcade and console titles will be available to play at launch, including all-time favourites such as Centipede, Lunar Lander and Asteroids Deluxe, from the likes of Konami, Activision and Intellivision. Over the next three years, around 1000 titles will be made available. Each game will cost 240 Microsoft Points to buy outright, or 400 to also allow you to play it on Windows PCs as well. Players can also opt to play each game once, for 40 Microsoft Points (approx. 34 pence) for that authentic arcade experience! Online leaderboards will feature on each game, allowing gamers to send custom challenges, and climb a universal leaderboard to see who's the all-time gamesmaster. Local Couch Play features, to let two players go head-to-head, while online players can invite friends into their
06
Game Room to show off your collection and demo games. Game Room launches in Spring 2010, and will be free to download.
Games update This year will be Microsoft's "biggest ever" line-up of exclusive titles for the 360, with Splinter Cell Conviction, Crackdown 2, Mass Effect 2, and Alan Wake all arriving in the early part of 2010, with Fable 3 and Halo Reach following in the holiday season - the latter of which Microsoft claims will be the "biggest game of the year".
Windows 7 leading the touch technology charge The buzz around tablet/slate PC technology continues to amp up in the new decade, and Microsoft wasted no time in demonstrating the touch capabilities inherent in the recently released Windows 7 operating system. As well as showing off a new touch-enabled slate PC from HP, Microsoft also flagged up Sony's new VAIO L laptop with its glorious 24-inch touch screen, and the super-thin 18mm Lenovo A300 PC.
2009 performance It was another good year for Microsoft, with 10 million 360s sold during 2009, bringing the total worldwide installed base up to 39 million. In addition, Xbox Live membership stats were heavily trumpeted, with over 20 million members now part of the online community - 10 million of which have signed into non-gaming apps like Facebook, Last.fm, Twitter and Sky.
CES 2010
Robbie Bach, Microsoft's president for entertainment and devices, talks about Project Natal at the 2010 International CES.
Microsoft CEO, Steve Ballmer, presents his pre-show keynote at the 2010 International CES in Las Vegas Wednesday evening.
Much hyped Alan Wake is due for release in early 2010
Other hot announcements at CES2010
Logitech Speaker Lapdesk N700 "Turn your laptop into a cinema" says Logitech about this new laptop audio solution. For the millions of users fed up with the twin horrors of tinny sound and a battery-fried lap, this new addition to Logitech's line-up will provide a cushioned base for the laptop to rest on, as well as "rich stereo sound". All in all, it promises to make your "movies, shows, music and games sound great again".
Splinter Cell Convition, expected to hit the shelves early this year
Netgear Push2TV Netgear's ďŹ rst Wi-Fi Direct device promises to bridge the gap between a user's laptop and television, by allowing consumers to display their laptop screen wirelessly on their HDTV without the need for a Wireless access point. Barely bigger than a packet of cards, the device is simplicity itself: it receives the wireless signal from the laptop and then displays that on the user's TV over HDMI.
TEL 01279 822822 FAX 01279 412604 WEB WWW.GEM.CO.UK
Gary Shapiro, CEA president and CEO, delivers his annual state of the industry address at the 2010 International CES.
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Headphones Ad.pdf
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18/12/09
16:19:32
THE WORLD’S SMALLEST HD CAMCORDER
True mobility and freedom thanks to the ultra slim, compact design • 1280 x 720 (720P) HD high definition video resolution up to 30fps • Up to 2592 x 1944 (5 mega-pixels) still pictures • Built-in 4GB memory for 100 mins video recording • 2.8cm (1.1’’) OLED display with greater range of colours, higher contrast, better brightness, and wider viewing angle • Built-in Li-Polymer rechargeable battery • Recharging from PC/Notebook via USB cable • 3-in-1 multi-solution: Digital camcorder, Digital still camera, Voice recorder
Webroot
Changing the way the Internet is used
WEBROOT
COMING SOON...
Webroot® Internet Security Complete A new, more effective way to
protect and manage digital life
Webroot® Internet Security Complete provides a new, more effective way to protect PCs, personal files and identity – and keep users’ digital life secure. Award-winning technologies block all forms of online threats, including viruses, spyware, phishing, spam, hackers and spammers. Multi-layered identity protection encrypts passwords, securely logs into favourite sites, and automatically fills in online forms to prevent keyloggers from recording any private information. Advanced mobile support enables consumers to use any computer or smartphone to securely access and manage their personal photos, music, files and passwords. With all of these technologies streamlined into one easy-to-use security console, users can quickly and safely access their online information and files, no matter where they are. With Webroot® Internet Security Complete users can enjoy surfing, shopping, banking, playing games, emailing or social networking, secure in the knowledge that their digital life is in safe hands.
Webroot put down its roots when the dangers of spyware first began making their appearance. Since then the company has gone from strength to strength and today has firmly established itself as a key player in the internet security marketplace. Webroot might not be well known in the UK but in November 2009 led the US PC security retail sales trends* with over 33% market share. For 2010 Webroot plans to capitalise on this achievement and build its channel presence in the UK. Read on to find out more...
*NPD sales figures end November 2009
What are your plans for the UK channel? Webroot is committed to building strong channel partnerships and significantly increasing our support to and interaction with the channel. The channel is key to our future business success and we are planning to recruit around 5000 new channel partners by the end of 2010. In addition we will be rolling out a new, partner-centric partner program in the near future for channel partners such as retailers, e-tailers, resellers and independents to earn attractive margins – watch out for more information coming soon! Our Enterprise products grew over 150% in EMEA in the past year and we see similar opportunities for strong growth for our Consumer products in 2010. Why would resellers be interested in adding another security product to their portfolio? Webroot produces a range of consumer security solutions based on its awardwinning Spy Sweeper® anti-spyware product, ranging from single solutions to full on suites. Our core products are Webroot® Internet Security Essentials, Webroot® Spy Sweeper®, Webroot® Window Washer®, and the best-in-class Webroot® Internet Security Complete which seamlessly combines cloud computing with the desktop. Webroot® Internet Security Complete is due to be launched during 2010.
Webroot not only offers best in class products, but also local language support. Our range of solutions and pricing dynamics provide a portfolio that exactly meets the needs of consumers. And with the exciting revenue-earning potential our brand new partner program will offer, we believe we have an opportunity for the channel that’s too good to miss. What’s different about your plans for the channel? Webroot is in the channel for the duration. This means we’ll be working closely with our partners, nurturing our relationships and building detailed, structured business development and marketing plans for mutual long-term gain. Support will include funding, branding, positioning, promotions, sales training, POS material, a Starter Pack and more. And Webroot’s commitment to the channel? Webroot is a channel centric business that operates through a multi-tiered channel of distributors, retailers, E-tailers and resellers. Our goals for 2010 are to establish aggressive growth of Webroot’s Consumer solutions in the UK and across EMEA. For more information on Webroot products available from Gem, contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or go online at www.gem.co.uk
• The most complete online identity protection • Effectively blocks viruses, Trojans, worms, rootkits and keyloggers, keeping users safe whilst they surf, email, play games, bank, shop or socialise online • A two-way firewall makes the PC invisible to hackers and prevents them from stealing key personal data such as credit card numbers or bank account details • Stops over 98% of spam and email scams • Protects passwords and helps the user manage them • Safely log into favourite sites with a single click from any PC or smartphone and ensure identity is kept safe • Provides 10GB online storage FREE, allowing the user to securely store thousands of photos • Keep in touch with friends and family by accessing and sharing photos, music and files from anywhere • System cleanup keeps the user’s computer running like new by removing unnecessary files including browser history and cookies, clearing IM logs and permanently deleting sensitive files • Intuitive interface makes securing digital life easy to manage • Windows 7 compatible • FREE upgrade to the latest product version for the life of the subscription
Top 3 reasons to stock • Award winning security solutions • Full product support provided • Opportunity to earn attractive margins
TEL 01279 822822 FAX 01279 412604 WEB WWW.GEM.CO.UK
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© 2009 Shure Incorporated
Professional soUnD froM ear To ear.
The SRH750DJ Professional DJ Headphones feature 50 mm neodymium dynamic drivers tuned to deliver high-output bass with extended highs, perfect for meeting the demands of live professional DJ mixing.
SRH240
SRH440
SRH840
For more than 80 years Shure rugged, professional audio products have been defined by a legacy of legendary performance. This passion for audio excellence also drives Shure Professional Headphones. These headphones live by a simple rule: What goes in must come out. Designed to withstand the rigours of everyday use, they are an excellent choice for music professionals and music obsessives – for recording, monitoring and personal listening.
Europe, Middle East, Africa: Shure Europe GmbH, Wannenäckerstr. 28, 74078 Heilbronn, Germany Phone: 49-7131-7214-0 Fax: 49-7131-7214-14 Email: info@shure.de United States, Canada, Latin America, Caribbean: Shure Incorporated, Phone: 1-847-600-2000 US Fax: 1-847-600-1212 Int‘l Fax: 1-847-600-6446 Asia, Pacific: Shure Asia Limited, Phone: 852-2893-4290 Fax: 852-2893-4055
www.shure.com www.shure.co.uk
056 Gem SRH750 ad.indd 1
29/08/2009 06:25
PC TOOLS
Buy 2 get the 3rd FREE on PC Tools
Offer available on the following products Buy 2 get the 3rd FREE on Spyware Doctor with AntiVirus 2010 Buy 2 get the 3rd FREE on Spyware Doctor 2010 Buy 2 get the 3rd FREE on Registry Mechanic Version 9.0
Offer available from 18th January – Friday 12th February Not available to mix and match Independent offer only
For more information and to order today, contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or go online at www.gem.co.uk/promotions
Great Savings on Microsoft Hardware
Wireless Desktop 3000 MFC-00007@PRO
LifeCam VX-7000 CEA-00002@PRO
Sidewinder X6 Keyboard AGB-00006@PRO
Comfort Optical Mouse 3000 DIT-00005@PRO
Available throughout February. Independent offer only - terms and conditions apply
For more information and to take advantage of these great offers, contact your Gem account manager or go online at www.gem.co.uk/promotions
Š 2009 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.
www.microsoft.com/hardware
NORTON
Automatic, safe and secure back up from Norton! Norton Online Backup automatically backs up data saved on up to five PC’s, securing those stored memories for good!
£1258
UK CONSUMERS VALUE THEIR DIGITAL ASSETS AT £1258
80%
MORE THAN 80% AGREE THEY’D BE UPSET AND ANGRY AT LOSING VALUABLE FILES - PHOTOS CAUSE THE MOST UPSET...
34%
...YET ONLY 34% OF US BACK UP DATA ON A REGULAR BASIS AND PHOTOS ARE THE MOST LIKELY FILE TO BE LOST
INFACT UK CONSUMERS ARE MORE LIKELY TO CHECK THE OIL ON THEIR CAR THAN BACKUP DATA
It’s the start of the year and plenty of people have made their New Year’s resolutions. Along with getting fit or stopping smoking, Symantec suggests users make one extra resolution: to back up their digital devices regularly. It might not sound very exciting, but PCs are now an emotional hub of personal correspondence, photos, CVs, music, academic documents and multimedia files, all stored electronically. If you’ve been unfortunate enough to experience data loss, you’ll know just how much time and money is required to try and replace the information. In addition, there is a strong emotional connection to the huge range of personally significant files stored on PCs. As is evident from the survey statistics to the right (conducted by Symantec in 2009), lost photos were found to cause most distress as they are irreplaceable memories and, to make matters worse, were the most common file type to lose as a result of a hardware crash or computer virus. Regularly backing up data is a good way to ensure it stays safe, however, backing up to a disk or removable hardware and restoring it later can be tricky and time consuming. An
alternative option is online storage, which is an easy and automated way to keep your files and information safe, and is simple to access after a hardware crash or loss. Norton Online Backup offers 25GB of online storage for £39.99. 25GB is the equivalent to over 6000 songs, or 7000 photos, or over 100 hours of video. 25GB would store 125,000 Word documents, 2000 spreadsheets or 25,000 Powerpoint presentations. Norton Online Backup can be set to back up automatically, whenever your PC is idle. That means users never have to remember to do it, and they have the peace of mind that their precious digital content is stored safely online. Users can access their Norton backed-up files from any internetenabled PC, and they can also back up files from up to five PCs – protecting a whole household. Norton Online Backup is also included within Norton 360 – with 2GB as standard and the ability to buy additional storage at any time. For more information, contact your Gem account manager or go online at www.gem.co.uk/symantec
38%
38% OF UK RESIDENTS HAVE LOST DATA
66%
66% OF PEOPLE WHO LOSE DATA CAN’T RETRIEVE IT
58%
58% OF PEOPLE WHO LOSE DATA DO SO BECAUSE OF HARDWARE FAILURE (CDs, DVDs, USBs OR HARD DRIVES)
TEL 01279 822822 FAX 01279 412604 WEB WWW.GEM.CO.UK
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Get the most out of your laptop 16
This month The Future takes a look at the notebook accessories available from Logitech, helping users experience comfort and precision from their PC. The Logitech Notebook range enables users to increase their comfort and productivity. Whether it is enhanced and accurate cursor control with a mouse or heat shielding and elevated display with a notebook riser, there is something in the range to help make the user’s overall experience more comfortable wherever they are. For more information on the full range of Logitech products available from Gem, contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or go online at www.gem.co.uk/logitech
LOGITECH
Comfort Lapdesk
Cooling Pad N100
Anywhere Mouse MX
Bluetooth Mouse M555b
The stable and lightweight design of the Logitech Comfort Lapdesk allows the user to work comfortably just about anywhere. The heat shielding design protects the body from the notebook heat, whilst the twelvedegree angled riser makes the user’s neck and legs more comfortable when seated. The Comfort Lapdesk is created from a soft, air-mesh fabric that feels good on the user’s legs enhancing the comfort feature of this product, and with a thin and streamlined profile the Comfort Lapdesk can be stored neatly and looks good in any room in the house.
The Logitech Cooling Pad N100 improves airflow around the notebook protecting the user from the heat. The slotted surface design, with virtually silent airflow, allows the USB-powered fan to distribute air quietly and evenly. The enclosed, durable construction protects the internal fan from dust and damage, whilst it is designed for efficiency with minimal impact on the notebook’s battery. The colours and shape are inspired by nature, so it looks good in any room in the home, and its versatile design with rear air intake allows for steady, unobstructed airflow- whether on a desk or lap.
With Logitech Darkfield Laser Tracking the Logitech Anywhere Mouse MX allows the user to use their mouse virtually anywhere they want – including clear glass and high gloss surfaces. The Unifying technology enables all compatible mice and keyboards to be added to just one receiver, and is so small that there is no need to unplug, ensuring the receiver is kept safe. The Logitech Anywhere Mouse MX also features a compact size that will work wherever it is needed, and the contoured shape fits naturally into most hands and back and forward buttons, placed within reach of the thumb, help users to surf the web efficiently.
The Logitech Bluetooth Mouse M555b features hyper fast scrolling for increased productivity, and notebooks with Bluetooth technology won’t need a receiver to get a powerful, cable free connection. The M555b allows users to fly through long documents and Web pages with one spin of the Hyper fast scroll wheel, or switch to click to click mode for precise, line by line navigation of lists, slides, images, and menus. Laser tracking delivers smooth, responsive, precise cursor control on surfaces that cause problems for optical mice. Efficient power management and a low battery indicator eliminate surprises and the smart sleep mode feature and on/off switch extend battery life.
Marathon Mouse M705
M115 Mouse
Portable Webcam C905
Mobile Traveler
The compact and sculpted design of the Logitech Marathon Mouse M705 allows users to enjoy a natural, comfortable grip with the added advantages of laser tracking and hyper-fast scrolling. Integrated thumb buttons give the user more control making it easy to jump between programs, and separate back and forward buttons allow for more efficient movement between Web pages. The Marathon Mouse M705 uses less than half the power of other wireless mice facilitating three full years of use between battery changes, whilst Logitech’s Unifying receiver enables the user to easily add a compatible keyboard without the need for multiple USB receivers.
For notebook users who appreciate the enhanced comfort and precision a mouse offers over an integrated touchpad, the Logitech Mouse M115 offers plug-and-play simplicity in a compact, portable design. Just plug the mouse into a USB port to get started for quick and easy set-up. The Logitech Mouse M115 also features optical tracking which offers smooth and accurate cursor control for a seamless computing experience. The compact design of the Logitech M115 also enables the user to simply slip the mouse into a bag and take it with them.
The travel-size 2MP portable webcam C905 with built-in video-calling application provides smooth, razor-sharp full-screen video with the high precision Carl Ziess optics that gives users time with friends and family even on the go. Ultra-smooth AutoFocus and light-correcting RightLight 2 technology works together to make video calls look so real, it is like being in the actual room, and RightSound technology allow the user to enjoy crystal-clear conversations with a built-in premium microphone that suppresses background noise. The Portable Webcam C905 will also attach securely to any notebook or shelf with the universal clip.
The Logitech Mobile Traveler is the perfect companion for any user on-the-go who wants to keep their notebook computer protected when travelling. The Logitech 15.4” padded case is durable and wellorganised with accessory pockets and an adjustable shoulder strap to ensure comfortable use every time. Also included in this bundle is the V100 Optical Mouse, the travel-friendly mouse that is lightweight and durable enough to slip into any bag without worrying. The contoured design of the Logitech V100 ensures that the mouse feels comfortable in either hand and optical tracking offers smooth and accurate cursor control, as well as side-to-side scrolling and zoom.
SRP £29.99 Webcode 939-000092
SRP £49.99 Webcode 910-001236
SRP £24.99 Webcode 939-000120
SRP £12.99 Webcode 910-001268
SRP £69.99 Webcode 910-000873
SRP £89.99 Webcode 960-000477
SRP £44.99 Webcode 910-001266
SRP £24.99 Webcode 939-000073
TEL 01279 822822 FAX 01279 412604 WEB WWW.GEM.CO.UK
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MCAFEE
Buy 3 Internet Security and/or Total Protection and get 3 FREE + a FREE McAfee FSDU!
Offer available 8th February – 22nd March 2010 Indie offer only – Terms and conditions apply For more information and to buy today, contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or go online at www.gem.co.uk/promotions
For more information on the fastastic offers available throughout this promotional period, contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or go online at www.gem.co.uk/februaryfrenzy Terms and conditions apply Offers available for a limited time only and while stocks last TEL 01279 822822 FAX 01279 412604 WEB WWW.GEM.CO.UK
19
SANDISK
Expand your memory with SanDisk Also available from SanDisk:
This month The Future will take a closer look at the gaming range available from SanDisk, as well as some of the other SanDisk products available at Gem. As the world-leader in flash memory cards, SanDisk have continued to change the way the way that people work, live and play, making memory matter. Catering for products ranging from games consoles and cameras to cars and TVs, SanDisk offer a solution for almost every hardware device sold.
GAMING Nintendo Gaming SD 4GB - SDSDG-004G-E11 SRP – £8.50 8GB - SDSDG-008G-E11 SRP – £17.01
When there’s a need for more music and pictures a Nintendo DSi™ SDHC™ Memory Card made by SanDisk is the answer. With two built-in cameras, AAC music playback and only 256MB of onboard storage, it’s easy to run out of room on the Nintendo DSi. SanDisk’s 4GB and 8GB cards can give the Nintendo DSi up to 15 or 30 times more space respectively, leaving more room for photo mash-ups and music. Wii Gaming SD Webcode: SDSDG-2048-E11
PSP and PS3 Memory Stick Pro Gaming Duo 2GB - SDMSG-2048-E11 SRP – £14.35 4GB - SDMSG-4096-E11 SRP – £20.66 8GB - SDMSG-8192-E11 SRP – £36.55
Unleash the power of portable game system with a SanDisk® Gaming Memory Stick PRO Duo™ card, made for the PSP® portable game system. User can now turn their portable game system into a fully-loaded multimedia entertainment device by adding extra storage from SanDisk. With capacities up to 8GB, users can feel free to save and share game data, listen to music, play videos and view photos.
USB FLASH DRIVES SanDisk Cruzer 4GB - SDCZ36-004G-E11 8GB - SDCZ36-008G-E11 16GB - SDCZ36-016G-E11 32GB - SDCZ36-032G-E11
SRP – £15.26 SRP – £26.10 SRP – £43.38 SRP – £86.57
For reliable and portable storage the SanDisk Cruzer USB Flash Drive is an essential. With capacities up to 32GB, it is designed to protect users’ most critical photos, music, videos and documents with ease. Designed to maximise reliability and ensure that digital content remains out of harm’s way, the SanDisk Cruzer is enhanced further by the simple cap-less design and dynamic sliding mechanism, the Cruzer USB is the perfect companion. NEW Cruzer Blade 2GB - SDCZ50-002G-E95 SRP – £9.46 4GB - SDCZ50-004G-E95 SRP – £13.85 8GB - SDCZ50-008G-E95 SRP – £24.29
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. Users can simply pop their pictures, tunes and other files onto the Cruzer Blade and start sharing with family and friends.
PHOTOGRAPHY Ultra II SDHC Card 2GB – SDSDH-002G-E11 4GB - SDSDH-004G-E11 8GB – SDSDH-008G-E11 16GB - SDSDH-016G-E11
SRP – £10.44 SRP – £16.75 SRP – £29.59 SRP – £60.48
SRP – £8.50
The SanDisk SD Gaming Memory Card line is the must have card for the Nintendo® Wii™ game console. SanDisk’s SD Gaming card is the only official licensee of the Nintendo® Wii, and for users to maximum performance and to get the most out of all the advanced features on the Wii™, they will need a SanDisk Gaming Card. With SanDisk, users will be able to download and store games, store game saves, and edit and store photos.
When speed really matters, serious photographers choose SanDisk Ultra II SDHC. The Ultra II SDHC cards are so fast that users will never miss a shot and so rugged that environmental conditions are never a problem. SanDisk Ultra II memory cards also feature faster performance, greater storage capacities and better dependability. For more information on the full range of SanDisk products available from Gem, contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or go online at www.gem.co.uk/search/quick/SanDisk SRPs may vary.
TEL 01279 822822 FAX 01279 412604 WEB WWW.GEM.CO.UK
21
GAMESFoCUS
22
RIch Multiplayer Experience
The sequel to the multi award-winning survival horror shooter hits the shelves on February 9th, with huge expectation behind what is expected to be one of the most important games of 2010.
One of the key new additions to the BioShock 2 offering is undoubtedly the presence of online, competitive multiplayer - a gameplay element sorely missed in the original.
Set in an alternative 1970, BioShock 2 once again takes place in the dystopian underwater city of Rapture. A once-beautiful Art Deco-styled subterranean playboy paradise has been largely reduced to rubble following the shocking events ten years previously. PUBLISHER 2K Games FORMAT Xbox 360/PS3/PC RELEASE DATE 9th February SRP £39.99 - £49.99
Ten years previously in the 2007 original version of BioShock, players took control of Jack, an aircraft crash victim who chanced upon an entrance to the mysterious Rapture while floating among the flaming wreckage. But far from seeking refuge, Jack discovered a crazed rich-
take control of the original 'Subject Delta' prototype Big Daddy in search of his beloved Little Sisters man's playground that harboured deranged secrets and elaborate security measures that made any kind of exploration a harrowing hazard. By taking advantage of genetic enhancements known as 'Plasmids', Jack eventually found himself on a collision course with a devious madman and his army of genetically mutated 'Splicers' - including, of course, the iconic lumbering Big Daddies and their creepy army of syringe-wielding 'Little Sisters'.
Take control of the 'Big Daddy' REASONS TO STOCK • Follow-up to bigselling, critically acclaimed original • Now features a rich multiplayer experience • Visually stunning, story-driven gameplay • Broad appeal, uniting both FPS, action adventure and survival horror crowd • Big marketing push by publisher 2K Games
In an interesting twist, though, this time around players actually take control of the original 'Subject Delta' prototype Big Daddy in search of his beloved Little
Sisters. With Rapture’s leader trying to rebuild the city, Big Daddy has developed free will, enhanced speed and superior intellect, despite no recollection of the past decade's events. Armed with his drill and rivet gun, players will once again take on a variety of cunning enemies in this genetically enhanced shooter, including the fearsome Big Sister, a bulky and deadly Little Sister-Big Daddy hybrid who will be the game's key adversary. Both quicker and more powerful than Big Daddy ever was, the Big Sister wields a harvesting needle which can extract genetic material from her enemies directly into her bloodstream, fuelling her telekinetic abilities. Scary.
Harvest or adopt Little Sisters Along the way, players will also come across the conventional Big Daddies, and can capture the Little Sisters that accompany them, and then choose their fate. Players will be given the option of harvesting them for more of the all-important ADAM genetic material, or adopt them and have them ride around looking for ADAM to harvest on your behalf.
Scripted entirely separately from the single player campaign, and developed by multiplayer specialists Digital Extremes, this mode actually takes place one year before the events of the original BioShock in 1959. Players will take on the role of one of Rapture's citizens embroiled in the city's Civil War. Employed by the Plasmid manufacturer Sinclair Solutions, you're sponsored to test the company's weapons as part of a consumer reward programme. Designed as an unfolding story-driven experience, the multiplayer facet will gradually unlock new weapons and plasmids as the player progresses, rewarding players with new story elements as they go along. Six characters are available to choose from, comprised of a football star, welder, pilot, Indian Mystic, housewife and businessman, with two further characters available in a special version. Five modes will make the cut, including a free-for-all Survival Of The Fittest mode, a team-based version called Civil Wars, while the Last Splicer Standing does not re-spawn dead players like the other two.
In another twist to the hugely admired formula, players will be able to wander outside of the city of Rapture and explore the ocean depths and admire the city's exterior, thanks to the Big Daddy's diving suit. Here, players will be able to harvest ADAM from the ocean's sea slugs, as well as gather other essential items such as first aid kits.
Elsewhere, is the Capture The Flag-esque 'Capture The Sister' mode, and ADAM Grab, where players must hunt down the Little Sister and hold onto her as long as possible, as well as Team ADAM Grab and Turf War, where teams fight for control point supremacy.
One of the most admired facets of the original BioShock was the presence of audio diaries, and more are promised for the sequel, helping players to gain an intimate understanding of the back story and the motivations of the cast of oddballs that inhabit this underwater world.
In all modes bar Capture The Sister, a single Big Daddy suit randomly spawns on the map, giving one player the chance to have greater strength and endurance, though has the disadvantage of not being able to use plasmids.
TEL 01279 822822 FAX 01279 412604 WEB WWW.GEM.CO.UK
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Codemasters
Still Available Operation Flashpoint XBOX 360 / PS3 / PC
8/10
“ It’s nervejanglingly tense” IGN
Taking the most realistic approach to war possible, Codemasters has pulled out all the stops to ensure this is a true military simulation on a massive scale, creating “the total combat experience”. Players must brave the evolving intensity and chaos of real-life modern warfare, set in a 135 square mile environment against the Chinese PLA. Unparalleled realism is one of the game’s key aims, with unscripted missions allowing players to use their own initiative and craft their own tactics, while using the authentic equipment and weapons of a real-life operative in the thick of a military crisis. With a flexible Mission Editor also included (PC only), players can even create their own single and multiplayer missions to extend the lifespan of the product when the campaign has been completed.
F1 2009 Wii / PSP
Set to be the first in a new generation of Formula One video games, this officially licensed Wii and PSP title features all the official drivers, teams and circuits from the 2009 FIA Formula One World Championship. Pledging to take gamers as close as possible to the most spectacular motorsport on the planet, the Wii version will take racing games on the platform to a “whole new level of immersion and authenticity”. All 17 of the 2009 season tracks are recreated in meticulous detail, including the all new 2009 Formula One Adu Dhabi Grand Prix. Players get the chance to experience the full race weekend, including practice session, qualifying and race day or jump straight into a Quick Race. With superb visuals, realistic damage modelling, and multiple control set-ups, F1 2009 is the complete package for F1 racing fans, and driving game fans alike.
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“ The most realistic shooter ever made” Playstation Official Magazine (UK)
Reasons to stock • Sequel to huge-selling 2001 classic • A true military simulator • Unprecedented freedom and realism
8/10
“a very accomplished and enjoyable arcade-based driving mechanic” Eurogamer
“Delicious handling and a palpable sense of speed IGN
Reasons to stock • Resurgence in interest in F1 • Officially licensed, with all drivers, teams and tracks • Designed to appeal to a broad range of skill levels
Colin McRae DiRT 2
9/10
“ Exceptional racing” Official Xbox Magazine
XBOX 360 / PS3 / Wii / DS / PSP / PC
9/10
Aiming to take off-road driving games to a new level of intensity and excitement, DiRT 2 features benchmark technology, thrilling new race types, big event atmosphere, stunning location, a new breed of off-road heroes and an exciting line-up of super-charged speed machines. Available across six formats, the game takes players on a global tour of nine stunning real world locations with more than 100 exhilarating events, also featuring a selection of best-in-class officially licensed rally cars and off-road vehicles, all carefully chosen for aggressive and fast-paced racing. Full online play is a big part of the DiRT 2 experience, and features head-tohead competitive play and new social features designed to fully engage the racing community.
“ Class leading driving game” PlayStation Official Magazine (UK)
Reasons to stock • Brand pedigree • Intense racing with an extreme sports attitude • Enhanced online play with community features
Ashes 09
8/10
“The most authentic cricket video game ever”
XBOX 360 / PS3 / Wii / PSP
Experience the most authentic cricket experience with Ashes Cricket 09 from Codemasters. Bringing the action closer than ever, the game boosts officially licensed players, teams, equipment and stadia including all five test venues.
Eurogamer
The game accurately simulates the tactical skill and technical elements of the sport, and features a variety of modes to test gamers to the limit. The game’s comprehensive ‘Ashes’ mode features all five Tests played out at carefully detailed recreations of each authentic venue. With online features also available on a number of formats, players have the opportunity to take part in four-player matches in the multiplayer mode. Featuring twelve Test nations and eighteen stadia from around the world, Ashes Cricket 2009 is the most comprehensive cricket video game ever.
Reasons to stock • The most authentic cricket game ever • Official players, kits, stadia and even commentators • More than 50 iconic cricketing moments
TEL 01279 822822 FAX 01279 412604 WEB WWW.GEM.CO.UK
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EXCLUSIVE
Little Sister 3.75” Figurine available Pre-order BioShock 2 from Gem to receive your Little Sisters!* * Independent offer only - Terms and Conditions apply
For more information contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822
Also available from Gem...
The BioShock 2 Special Edition This Special Edition celebrates the game’s unique music and art with contents inspired by the time period and the fantastic undersea world of Rapture. The Special Edition is limited to a single-production run. What’s in the box? • 12” Vinyl LP with BioShock orchestral score • Audio CD with BioShock 2 orchestral score • Three vintage Rapture advertisement posters (rolled) • BioShock 2 Art Book, 164 pages and hardcover • BioShock 2 game
GAMESFoCUS
Silent Hill: Shattered Memories FORMAT PS2, PSP, Wii RELEASE DATE 5th March 2010 PUBLISHER Konami SRP PSP - £29.99 / Wii - £34.99 / PS2 - £29.99
Konami kicks off 2010 with a fantastic re-imagining of its treasured Survival Horror brand. Based on the events of the 1999 PlayStation classic, Shattered Memories reinvigorates horror gaming with a plethora of breathtaking sequences and gaming elements which feel both original and hugely engaging. Although sharing many of the main plot elements and characters of the first Silent Hill title, British studio Climax has given the gameplay a dramatic overhaul, breathing new life into what we know as survival horror. Gone are the '90s design conventions: the clunky combat, the need to painstakingly check every door and every darkened corners in the hope of an obscure object. Gone are the wilfully obtuse puzzles, the slightly unhelpful camera angles and having to constantly check the map to find where you were going. Instead, Climax has taken the opportunity to completely reinvent the series in every way, and have devised a brilliantly paced adventure which ebbs and flows expertly between intuitive puzzle-exploration, nightmarish escape sequences, psychological profiling and memorable action sequences. With an emphasis on engaging narrative, the game kicks off poignantly with a home video of Harry Mason playing happily with his beloved daughter Cheryl, but the tale takes a desperate turn for the worse as it cuts to Harry crashing his car in the icy fog of Silent Hill. Upon awakening, he realises Cheryl is no longer in the back seat, and begins a harrowing search through the snowbound town of Silent Hill to find clues to her whereabouts. Enlisting the help of Police Officer Cybil Bennett, he searches the nearby school, deserted shopping mall, and hospital, before the truth starts to unravel. Nothing is as it seems.
As you play through and explore this exceptional game, eventually the world will literally freeze around Harry, throwing him into a nightmarish escape sequence where he must dodge faceless apparitions that stalk him in the darkness. Using slick motion controls, players must literally 'throw' these monsters off in the appropriate direction, and push obstacles in their path in order to get away. At various intervals in the game, players will also find themselves undergoing psych-profiling, with numerous personal questions designed to find out what sort of player you are, and where your inner fears reside. Uniquely, depending on your responses, the game will subtly change accordingly, and no two games will be exactly alike as a result. Sometimes the kind of monsters you face will shift, or even how certain characters look. Elsewhere, even the puzzle and exploration side of the game feels fresh and innovative, with the Wii remote turned into a torch, and most puzzles dependent on some sort of intuitive motion-based manipulation. Both logical and original in concept, Shattered Memories tests players in a way that's satisfying. One such idea that's particularly ingenious is the with frequent use of an iPhone-style camera phone. Players often find themselves receiving strange text messages and voicemails, with the Wii remote's speaker acting as the earpiece, while eery feedback provides opportunities to take pictures of strange otherworldly apparitions. For more information contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822, or go online at www.gem.co.uk Reasons To Stock • Exciting reinvention of Konami's seminal horror brand. • Huge critical acclaim. • Superbly innovative use of the Wii's motion control. • Brilliantly paced. • Absorbing, engaging narrative, with psychological profiling element.
TEL 01279 822822 FAX 01279 412604 WEB WWW.GEM.CO.UK
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GAMESFoCUS
Disgaea 2: Dark Hero Days FORMAT PSP RELEASE DATE 5th February 2010 PUBLISHER Tecmo Koei Europe SRP £24.99
Disgaea 2: Dark Hero Days is now here for PSP and is a faithful recreation of the original 2006 PlayStation 2 game. The game also offers hours and hours of portable turnbased strategy, plus new story chapters which have been added to enhance gameplay. Sticking with the original format of the game there are “bad guys” who turn out to be not so bad over the course of the tale. Dark Hero Days sees the entire human population of this fantasy world cursed by the Overlord Zenon, and turned into amoral demons. The only unaffected human is Adell, and he must challenge the Overlord to set things right and get his family back.
When Adell and his mother attempt to summon Zenon they receive his daughter, Princess Rozalin, instead. Adell and Rozalin set out to find the Overlord and encounter a cast of wacky demons along the way, including some familiar faces from the first Disgaea. With over 55 new battle stages, and 4 new story chapters this enhanced contents spans over 150 hours of gameplay ensuring hardcore gamers will never be disappointed. Reasons To Stock • Over 55 new batle stages. • Enhanced contents. • Over 150 hours of gameplay.
Dynasty Warriors Strikeforce FORMAT PS3, Xbox 360 RELEASE DATE 19th February 2010 PUBLISHER Tecmo Koei Europe SRP £44.99
Back with a vengeance, and for the first time going online with four-player Tactical Action combat, Dynasty Warriors: Strikeforce takes place in the mystic version of ancient China where warriors possess the power of “fury”. This power gives them superhuman strength, lightning fast speed and the ability to fly.
Including over 40 console-exclusive missions plus downloadable add-on content, there are more than 200 quests in all, ensuring that players will have no end of missions to take on. Reasons To Stock • First time online with Tactical action combat • Over 40 playable characters • Over 40 console-exclusive missions
Taking the role of any one of over 40 playable characters, up to four friends can go online to launch raids as a team or battle it out competitively. Using voice or text chat to coordinate assaults, players will go on campaigns to infiltrate heavily-armed enemy strongholds, clash with thousand-man armies, or slay dragons. In single player mode, players have the option to choose and command up to three AI-controlled officers to join them in offline missions. And by completing guest character challenges, players will win the right to use that guest character’s signature weapon in combat. There is also the opportunity to build and modify weapons using supplies gathered during battle.
TEL 01279 822822 FAX 01279 412604 WEB WWW.GEM.CO.UK
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Karaoke Revolution
Adventures to Go
FORMAT Wii, Wii with Microphone RELEASE DATE 12th February 2010 PUBLISHER Konami SRP £29.99/ £44.99 (with Microphone)
FORMAT PSP RELEASE DATE 26th February 2010 PUBLISHER Zushi SRP £19.99
The latest addition to Konami's groundbreaking music series is the only cross-platform karaoke game on the market, and transforms videogames consoles into "high-end interactive karaoke machines." Featuring 50 classic and contemporary songs from the master recordings, expanded multiplayer modes, 16 customisable venues and customisable characters, players can throw the ultimate karaoke party right in their own living room. Perform solo in career mode, or battle with or against each other in Party Mode, with support for up to 16 players. Create a playlist and simply pick up a microphone and join in at any time. With support for PlayStation Eye or Xbox Live Vision Camera players can create virtual representations of themselves and incorporate it into their own custom venues. Xbox and PS3 owners will also have the chance to download new songs and additional clothing and accessories to fully personalise their experience. Reasons To Stock • Features 50 popular songs, old and new • 16 player multiplayer support • Enhanced customisation options
Create your own missions with Adventures to Go, the all new strategy RPG from Zushi. 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
Chicken Blaster FORMAT Wii, DS RELEASE DATE 5th February 2010 PUBLISHER Zushi SRP £19.99 Crazy chickens have infiltrated the once anonymous and boring life of a humble poultry farmer—and now all of his chickens are going mad! With Chickens on rockets, water skis and trampolines, the aim of Chicken Blaster is to put those crazy chickens in their place. Blast them off the farm with an arsenal of weapons through several different stages ranging from a barnyard to an icy stage. With the targeting cursor constantly rotating, pinpoint aiming is required to hit every chicken, but players must make sure to keep an eye on those eggwielding birds as they are determined to defend their new insane way of life. Players have the option of three modes of play: career, quest and survival. Completion of each stage unlocks a new one within this mode, and with a total of 8 stages, there is more than enough to keep the player entertained for hours on end.
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Reasons To Stock • Entertainment for hours • Three play modes • Excellent value for money • From the creators of Chicken Shoot
GAMESFoCUS
Undead Knights
Quantum Theory
FORMAT PSP RELEASE DATE 26th February 2010 PUBLISHER Tecmo Koei Europe SRP £29.99
FORMAT PS3/Xbox 360 RELEASE DATE 26th March 2010 PUBLISHER Tecmo Koei Europe SRP £49.99
Become one of the Undead in the latest title from Publisher Tecmo. Undead Knights sees the once loyal knights serving under the King of Cavalier killed for suspecting the King’s new queen of foul play and witchery. After their death’s, a mysterious being known as “The Beast” offers to revive them as undead and grant them the power to turn their enemies into zombies under their control. The gamer will play as one of three pallid, undead warriors hell-bent on revenge. On the field, your characters can slash, jump, evade, and grab. Grabbing an enemy turns him into a zombie; grabbing a zombie allows you to either throw it or smash it into the ground for an explosive attack. With each successful conversion, you fill up a meter under your health bar that, when full, allows you to unleash a devastating combo attack that renders all victims zombies. Having the zombies on your side is advantageous because they will keep lesser enemies distracted, but their most notable use comes when overcoming obstacles. Slaughtering as many enemies as possible while completing each chapter as quickly as possible, ranks your performance and awards your dark energy with which you can upgrade your characters’ abilities. Reasons To Stock • Multiplayer option • Upgrade characters abilities • Turn enemies into zombies to control them
Warriors: Legends of Troy FORMAT Xbox 360, PS3 RELEASE DATE 26th March 2010 PUBLISHER Tecmo Koei Europe SRP £44.99
From the creators of Dynasty Warriors comes an unbelievable game that tells the tale of the epic Trojan War. In this ancient time, men and gods fought alongside one another for eternal glory. Legends of Troy will cover the entire length of the 10-year Trojan War, taking influence from mythology and contemporary literature. Players will take control of characters including Achilles and Odysseus, annihilating hordes of soldiers and battling larger-than-life heroes and even confronting mythical creatures sent by the gods.
Reasons To Stock • Multiplayer option • Online features available • Based on the epic Trojan War
With intense action sequences Quantum Theory is the first third-person shooter game from Koei. Players take on the role of the massive, gun-wielding warrior Syd in an unpredictable, shape-shifting battlefield, aided by the mysterious acrobatic Filena. Many years have passed since the world war inflicted catastrophic damage on the human race, leaving only a few survivors. In their new community “Cocoon”, life has been threatened by a black material called Erosion, creating a post-apocalyptic environment. Players experience Syd and Filena’s adventurous ascent through a treacherous tower, presented in an art nouveau style world that merges the beauty of organic motifs with technology and action-packed gameplay. Navigate through a dark fantasy world where the intense battleground surprises you with new and challenging obstacles by changing its form in real-time.
In this tactical action affair, players can take on online co-op with four players, both co-operatively and competitively. Game-play is further enhanced with additional online features that include video chat and leader boards, taking play to the next level.
Supporting four modes of online multiplayer complete with voice chat for real-time communication, Quantum Theory is an essential for any third-person shooter gamer.
With two unique storylines, player will see the war from two perspectives, enabling the player to do battle as the Trojans or the Greeks; fighting not for home and country, but for love of a single woman.
Reasons To Stock • 4 modes of online multiplayer • Action packed gameplay • First third-person shooter game from Koei
TEL 01279 822822 FAX 01279 412604 WEB WWW.GEM.CO.UK
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Norton Internet Security 2010 TM
• Stops online identity theft, identified viruses, spyware, bots, and more • Blocks attacks before they can infect your PC • Delivers clear performance and threat explanations • Identifies unsafe web sites right in your search results • Uses intelligence-driven technology to increase the scan speed and shorten the time and resources used for scans
Buy 3, get 2
FREE
*
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/symantec *Offer only available for authorised channel resellers. Buy 3 NortonTM Internet Security 2010 units and get an additional 2 NortonTM Internet Security 2010 units FREE. Offer valid from Monday 1st February until Friday 26th February 2010.
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