The Future - May 2010 Edition

May 2010

Announcing the

NEW Xbox Portal

Sign up to the portal for a chance to

win a Final Fantasy XIII Super Elite Bundle 5 runners up will win a

copy of Alan Wake!

Your insight to Xbox. Give us your feedback.

With NEW and ENHANCED features including: • What’s new on Xbox Live • Latest breaking news • Exclusive game, accessory and bundle of the month • Upcoming Xbox release schedules • Products and assets download area only available here • Exclusive online promotions • Give us your opinion

Visit www.gem.co.uk/xboxmicrosite

CONTENTS

FEATURES 07 FALCON Introducing Falcon, the total cleaning solution for technology

08 STEEL SERIES Announcing our new partnership with SteelSeries, a global leader in professional gaming gear

11 NORDIC GAMES New to Gem with great games at great prices

13 MICROSOFT Managing Editor Louise Powell

See your friends in perfect clarity with Microsoft’s new HD LifeCam’s and True Colour Technology

Associate Editor Danielle Govier

14 LOGITECH A look at the newest MP3 speaker to be released in the Logitech range

Design Karl Kisala Sophie Hammond Production Support John Dunn Matt Andrews Peter Cox

ALSO THIS MONTH

Gaming Feature Kristan Reed

19 MAMUT

Publisher Gem Creative

The aspirations of Mamut from Bryan Richter, UK country manager

Printed in the UK by The Magazine Company PLC www.magprint.co.uk

21 EXSPECT Listen and ride with the versatile and compact iPhone In-Car holder from Exspect

To place an order please call 01279 822822 between 9am-6pm Monday to Friday, or visit www.gem.co.uk to buy online*.

23 HONESTECH An in-depth look at what Honestech has to offer and their plans for the future

To open an account please visit www.gem.co.uk or call our new accounts team on 01279 822800. *Trade account needed

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

Telephone numbers Office: +44 01279 822800 Sales: +44 01279 822822

Competition Winners!

REGULARS

The 3 winners of the Xbox Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell Elites are:

05 WE WANT ONE

Home Connection MyMemory Game Cave Shropshire

SteelSeries Siberia Full-size headset v2, the preferred headset for the World’s best PC gamers

24 GAMES FOCUS Taking a look at the month’s up and coming game releases

Congratulations!

Facsimile numbers Office: +44 01279 416228 Sales: +44 01279 412604

03

www.netgear.co.uk

Connect with Innovation™

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

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

Dual Band Wireless-N DSL Gateway

Dual Band Wireless-N Router

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

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

Webcode DGND3300-100UKS SRP £122.60

Webcode WNDR3300-100UKS SRP £99.99

SteelSeries Siberia v2 Full-size headset

The SteelSeries v2 Full-size headset has been developed in cooperation with professional gamers to ensure that the soundscape and design meet the demand of gamers and audiophiles.

Based on the award-winning SteelSeries Siberia Full-size Headset, the v2 features major enhancements in sound quality and comfort plus the addition of a built-in microphone that can be retracted into the ear-cup, making it virtually invisible. The enhanced design also allows for a more convenient and travel-friendly headset especially for tournament players.

With 25% larger 50mm driver units, the v2 dramatically boosts overall acoustic performance, and the closed type ear cups are built from a sound dampening foam that offers passive noise reduction that enables crisp detailed sound that can mean the difference between winning or losing for a professional gamer.

Every element of the SteelSeries Siberia Full-size headset has been optimised for pro gaming, making the headset a preferred piece of equipment for the world’s best competitive PC gamers. The Serbia v2 also extends its reach into the music world, with the multifunctional ability to deliver an unparalleled audio music experience for music lovers.

SRP ÂŁ79.99 Webcode 51100 (White) / 51105 (Red)

For more information on 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

Entertainment Industry’s Annual

Charity Golf and Spa Day in association with Gem for Games Aid

AWARDS DINNER EVENT TIMINGS 10.30 - 12.40

Practice Range open with course pro

11.00 - 12.40

Welcome and registration

12.40 - 12.45

VPAR Scoring System Briefing

12.45 - 13.00

Shotgun briefing

13.00

Shotgun Start

19.00 - 19.30

Post-golf drinks

19.30 - 20.30

Pre-dinner drinks

20.30 - 22.00

Awards dinner

22.00 - 22.45

Speeches and awards

01.00

Bar closes

TM

The Grove Golf Club, Chandlers Cross, Herts

27th May 2010 The 2010 Annual Charity Golf and Spa event will be held at the prestigious Grove course, widely regarded as one of the finest Golf courses in Europe, having recently hosted the World Golf Championships and the 2006 American Express Championship. Test your Golf skills or relax in the Spa - all in the name of charity!

Evening Awards Dinner.

The event finishes with an evening awards dinner providing the perfect opportunity to tell stories from the day, congratulate the winners and join key industry figures for a beer or two whilst supporting the Games Aid cause.

If you are interested in sponsoring or participating, contact Richard Stickler on 01279 822832 or at richards@gem.co.uk

TICKET PRICES £150.00

(PER PERSON)

(TABLE OF 10)

To book accommodtation at a special discounted rate, contact the hotel at 01923 296010 Discount Prices: Standard Room - £225.00 Superior Room Single Occupancy £240.00 Quote ‘Charity Golf And Spa Day’ when booking.

So there is no excuse – come along in the evening and show your support for Games Aid!

www.gamesaid.org

OR £1250.00

www.golfandspaday.com

FALCON

newtous THE DUST-OFF RANGE Dust-Off Gaming Gear PC and Console Cleaning Kit Maximise the performance of Gaming equipment with the Dust-Off Gaming Gear PC or Console Cleaning Kit. The DustOff Gaming Gear PC or Console cleaning kit includes a 109ml duster, LCD/Plasma screen cleaning spray, Microfiber cleaning cloth and 4 cleaning swabs, everything needed to keep your PC or console clean and ready for use.

Webcode 18140/DFG10040X SRP £15.99

Dust-Off Gaming Gear Wipes Help keep console, controllers, keyboards and mice clean with the Dust-Off Gaming Gear Wipes. The gaming gear wipes are completely alcohol-free and safe for use on everything from surfaces to skin, leaving any washable surface clean and static-free. The wipes come in an easy-to-use canister that ensures product freshness, and stops the wipes drying out.

Webcode 18122/DFG20035X SRP £8.20

Dust-Off Gaming Gear 300ml Duster

Introducing Dust-Off

®

The total cleaning solution for Technology In a recent partnership Gem will now be distributing Falcon Safety Products. Falcon is the leading manufacturer and marketer of computer and consumer electronics cleaning accessories with their Dust-Off® brand.

Founded in 1953, Falcon are committed to providing consumers with the highest quality of cleaning accessories and compressed gas products at the most economical value. This commitment, along with the company’s focus on environmental and public safety issues has enabled the brand to sustain its growth for over 50 years.

Falcon’s introduction of the Dust-Off range for gaming gear includes a line of cleaning products and accessories for all a gamers needs. During use lint and dust can build up around the cooling fans which can directly affect the performance of the equipment,

As the leading product in this category, the Dust-Off Gaming Gear Duster is the first step in any PC cleaning or maintenance task. The Gaming Gear Duster is a compressed-gas duster that safely cleans PC’s, keyboards, screens, controllers and mice.

This product is 100% ozone safe, and the large disposable can gives you great value.

Webcode 18010/DFG1052X SRP £11.99

potentially causing a crash. However, with simple maintenance users can prevent this from happening and also ensure that the equipment is running at maximum performance levels. Dust-Off offers a safe new spray formulation that is suited for cleaning gaming guitars and consoles as well as LCD, Plasma and touch screens that prevent finger smudges and other contaminants that can detract from and even affect a gamers gaming experience.

Top 3 reasons to stock • High quality products at the most economical value • 50 years of Superior Service • Committed to environmental and public safety issues For more information of Falcon products available from Gem go online at www.gem.co.uk or contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822

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

Dust-Off Gaming Gear Plasma and LCD Screen Care Kit Get better visuals with the Dust-Off Gaming Gear Plasma/LCD screen care kit. Easy and safe to use, the Plasma/LCD screen care is suitable to use on any type of screen, and the kit comes with a microfiber cloth that is sure to get rid of all of that dust, for an enhanced gaming experience.

Webcode 18138/DFG10015X SRP £10.99

07

newtous

SteelSeries Winning is everything Gem are pleased to announce their recent partnership with SteelSeries, a global leader in professional gaming gear.

Established in 2001 in Copenhagen, SteelSeries recognised the need for superior, high-quality professional gaming gear that would give players a competitive edge.

Since then the company has developed to have global offices in North America, Europe and Asia, that provides an integrated portfolio of products designed specifically for gaming. SteelSeries are passionate and focused on making professional gaming gear that provides

meaningful benefits to gamers of all skilllevel. All their products are developed with a small internal team and a vast network of technology partners that ensures that SteelSeries can create innovative solutions that provide a competitive advantage for all gamers. SteelSeries also inject a substantial portion of their revenue back into the gaming community to help spur industry growth, supporting them in numerous ways including promoting top gaming teams and organisations.

Top 3 reasons to stock • A Global leader in professional gaming gear • Reinvest substantially in the gaming communities • Superior, high-quality professional products For more information on the full range of SteelSeries products available from Gem, contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or go online at www.gem.co.uk/search/quick/steelseries

product ranges

SteelSeries’ product range caters specifically for gaming and includes everything from mice to surfaces. Here the Future takes a look at some of the best products of each range, and what they have to offer.

08

GAMING MICE SteelSeries Xai Laser Mouse Designed with one purpose in mind the SteelSeries Xai Laser Mouse has been created to enhance users performance.

Featuring state of the art technology and groundbreaking technical specifications the Xai Laser Mouse offers pro-play performance with accurate tracking and extreme precision for pro-gamers. The high definition sensor offers 10.8 MegaPixels per second, resulting in reliable tracking even during the most frantic and fast-paced games.

SRP £79.99

GAMING KEYBOARDS SteelSeries Merc Stealth Offering 34 dedicated gaming terrain keys, the SteelSeries Merc Stealth makes it easier and more intuitive than ever to walk, run and move directionally in games. The gaming terrain keys, tilted at an 11 angle, are ergonomic and comfortable even during long gaming sessions. The keyboard also features 3 different illumination colours which can be set to 4 different illumination modes.

SRP £63.99

GAMING SURFACES SteelSeries 9HD The SteelSeries 9HD is a high definition surface that offers superior tracking for professional gamers who demand extremely consistent precision, accuracy and stability. The hard plastic composition has been specifically engineered to enhance the tracking capabilities of nextgeneration gaming mice, enabling the user to perform exceptionally precise mouse operations.

SRP £34.99

STEELSERIES

Awards&Reviews STEEL SERIES 9HD

“It combines great glide and control, it is a thrill to use” 9.6/10 - Editor’s Choice Award Techpowerup Nov 2009

“Provides greater clarity of communication between man and machine” XS Reviews Feb 2010

GAMING HEADSETS SteelSeries 5H v2 When wearing the SteelSeries 5H v2 users will immediately notice the reduce background noise and enhanced comfort that the enormous full-size ear cushions provide. The headset has also been specifically optimised for first-personshooter games with custom-engineered soundscape that increases performance and immersion in the game. The SteelSeries 5H v2 can easily be dismantled into 3 seperate parts, making transportation of the headset both easy and safe, whilst the pull-out microphone is practically invisible when not in use.

SRP £79.99

GAMING CUSTOM GEAR SteelSeries QcK World Of Warcraft March of the Scourge Limited Edition Optimised for optical and laser technology the SteelSeries Qck mousepad is the perfect choice for not only hardcore gamers but also graphic designers which require precision and accuracy. The combination of high quality cloth material and a textured surface ensures both smoothness and glide for any mouse, whilst the non-slip rubber base prevents the pads from sliding, no matter what surface it is placed on.

GAMING ACCESSORIES SteelSeries Xbox 360 Headset Connector With the SteelSeries Xbox 360 Headset Connector gamers can now use their Standard stereo PC headset on their Xbox 360, whilst also using the headsets’ microphone to speak to friends on Xbox Live.

SRP £9.99

STEEL SERIES XAI

“Quite simply the best pure gaming mouse we’ve ver tested” 10/10 - Winner of Editor’s Choice Award Trusted Reviews Jan ‘10

“The most impressive gaming mouse I have ever tested” Overall 10/10 Gold Award Hardware Heaven Nov ‘09

SRP £14.99

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

09

KASPERSKY

Great Savings on Kaspersky Lab

25% OFF 50% OFF

Kaspersky Internet Security 2010 1User at Kaspersky Small Office Security at

Offer available 29th April – 26th May 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

NORDIC GAMES

newtous

Nordic Games

Great games at great prices This month Gem are pleased to announce their partnership with Nordic Games. Founded in 2008, Nordic Games prides itself on the careful research and planning that goes into the selection of their products, whilst maintaining that all products deliver on their promise of great products at great value. Gem will distribute all back catalogue titles as well as all upcoming releases.

“We Sing achieved magnificent results last year, with limited stock,” says Nik Blower, sales and marketing director, Nordic Games. “We were the top Nintendo Wii singing game in almost every European territory – and 2010 will be a pivotal year in the company’s history. We’ve big plans for the ‘We’ series of games and we’re delighted to have signed an agreement with Gem – their muscle within the market will help us achieve spectacular results.”

WE SING

Format Wii SRP £29.99 (Solus) / £49.99 (Bundle) Exclusive to the Wii, We Sing offers 30 chart topping tunes from a wide range of musical tastes, featuring original music videos.

With 3 game modes players have the option to play alone, or with up to 4 players in Party mode, taking on songs including Elton John and Kiki Dee “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart”, Lady Gaga “Poker Face”, Spice Girls “Wannabe” and Pussycat Dolls “Don’t Cha”. Players also have the option to tailor their song choice to their own requirements, selecting the length of the song and the play level depending on their skills as a singer.

Tracey Tennison, Gem’s Head of Purchasing adds “We are delighted to be working with the Nordic Games Team to distribute their exciting product portfolio that’s achieved proven successes throughout 2009. Combined with our team’s distribution and marketing expertise and extensive retail reach, we’re confident that our partnership will benefit both Nordic Games and Gem greatly whilst delivering a wider choice or product and distribution solutions to the channel.”

Top 3 reasons to stock • High quality games at great prices • Each title is a proven long-term seller • Continuing to expand their range of games

DANCE PARTY POP HITS

DANCE PARTY CLUB HITS

Come and join the party with Dance Party Pop Hits. Full of uplifting pop hits, including songs like Sugababes’ “Push the Button”, Booty Luv’s “Some Kinda Rush” and Sophie Ellis Bextor’s “Murder on the Dance Floor”, players have the chance to show off their latest dance floor moves.

With Dance Party Club Hits players can show off their dance moves with some of the biggest club hits including Sam Sparro’s “Black and Gold”, Camille Jones’ “The Creeps” and September’s “Cry For You”.

Format Wii, PS2 SRP (Wii) £19.99 / Wii with dance mat £39.99 / (PS2) £9.99

With 45 individual dance routines and 3 progressive difficulty levels, players also have the option to record their own dance steps to their favourite tracks. Party mode allows players to challenge up to 8 of their friends, whilst the workout mode helps players get into shape.

Format Wii, PS2 SRP (Wii) £19.99 / Wii with dance mat £39.99 / (PS2) £9.99

Players can take part in fully customised routines, competing head-to-head in a 2 player dance off, or challenging up to 8 of their friends in the party mode, so grab your friends and join the dance party.

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

11

Coming Soon

For more information contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or visit www.gem.co.uk

www.microsoft.com

MICROSOFT

TrueColour Technology coming soon from Microsoft The new range of LifeCam HD webcams let’s your friends see you in perfect clarity and High Definition The new TrueColour Technology from Microsoft automatically delivers bright and colourful video.

This technology is designed to compensate for the lack of light, by increasing the luminosity of content and boosting colour saturation.

TrueColour Technology has been integrated into both the LifeCam HD-5000 and LifeCam HD-6000 for notebooks for improved colour quality and brightness for an enhanced video experience, combining both software and hardware to help people look bright and natural in virtually any lighting situation, providing consumers with the best-inclass video quality.

LifeCam HD-5000

LifeCam HD 6000 for notebooks

Launches 25th June

Launches 5th May

The LifeCam HD-5000 offers a 720p high-definition sensor that records HD-quality video at up to 30 frames per second, and with 16:9 Widescreen video users can enjoy cinematic video recording, ensuring that nothing is left out of the image. Snapshots are taken at up to 4megapixels delivering crystal-clear photographs to share with friends and family, whilst Microsoft TrueColour Technology intelligently delivers the best possible images even in dim or badly lit settings.

The LifeCam HD-6000 has been designed specifically for notebooks with a sleek 360-degree rotating design that enables users to point the camera anywhere in the room, and comes with a convenient case for storage on the go.

With more and more people uploading and sharing personal videos it is a must have for webcam’s to offer widescreen, cinematic video recording, enabling multiple chat participants to comfortably fit in the field of view; whilst the 720p HD Sensor and TrueColour Technology delivers crisp and colourful video, in virtually all lighting conditions. The LifeCam HD-6000 is also equipped with Auto Focus which keeps the video in focus no matter how far the distance from the LifeCam and the 5 x digital zoom ensures that you never miss a thing.

The LifeCam HD-5000 also features a flexible attachment base that bend to fit most surfaces, including on the top of flat-screen monitors and notebook screens, or directly on the desk, offering a perfect solution for use at home or on the go.

• • • • • • • •

TrueColour Technology 720p HD Sensor Auto Focus 4.0 megapixel stills 16:9 widescreen Flexible attachment base Optimised for Windows Live Messenger Works with: Windows Live, Yahoo! Messenger, AOL Instant Messenger, Skype

Webcode 7ND-00003 SRP £49.99

• • • • • • • • •

TrueColour Technology 720p HD Sensor Auto Focus 360-degree design 4.0 megapixel stills 16:9 widescreen Convenient carrying case Optimised for Windows Live Messenger Works with: Windows Live, Yahoo! Messenger, AOL Instant Messenger, Skype

Webcode 7PD-00003 SRP £49.99

For more information on Microsoft products available from Gem 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

13

Enjoy your favourite music at home and on the go!

This month get ready to party with the newest additions to the Logitech MP3 speaker range, the portable S125i and the rechargable S315i, as well as looking at the other speakers in the range.

Portable Speaker S125i

Rechargeable Speaker S315i

Pure-Fi Anywhere 2

The compact and lightweight Logitech Portable Speaker S125i with Bass Boost offers long-lasting tunes, so music is easily transported wherever you go. At less than 500 grams, the power-smart and compact S125i has up to 10 hours battery life making it easy to listen to and share your favourite music out and about.

With a slender, portable design the Logitech Rechargeable Speaker S315i will blow you away with up to 20 hours of music without a mains power supply. The S315i has custom-tuned speakers that accurately reproduce music with enhanced bass and improve your iPod listening experience.

The Logitech Pure-Fi Anywhere 2 provides rich sound in a small format. The Pure-Fi Anywhere 2 is fully compatible with all iPods and iPhones with dock connectors that allows for browsing, control and charging.

The S125i also comes with a power supply for endless listening at home without batteries. Compatible with the iPod Nano, iPod Shuffle, iPod Video and iPod Classic, the docking station charges the iPod when running on mains so it’s ready to listen to at any time, and simple controls make set up and listening quick and easy.

Featuring a built-in rechargeable battery the S315i can provide a whole day’s worth of listening while recharging the iPod or iPhone when docked. The Rechargeable Speaker S315i also features an Auxiliary input that opens up the music possibilities, enabling you to connect the speakers to your PC, laptop, MP3 player or portable DVD player.

• Plays and charges your iPod • Bass boost • Portable design SRP £69.99

14

Webcode 984-000100

• Power-saving mode • Slender, portable design • Play and charge your iPhone or iPod Webcode 984-000084 White / 984-000088 Black SRP £99.99

Clear sound and maximum bass is achieved by combining 5.1cm action and 7.6cm pressure drivers. The speakers include a built-in rechargeable battery that lasts for 10 hours, a power adapter and a remote in the included travel case.

• • • •

Compact, portable speakers for iPod and iPhone Clear sound and maximum bass 10-hour rechargeable battery with battery-life indicator Browse and control your iPod with the wireless remote

Webcode 984-000061 SRP £129.99

LOGITECH

Pure-Fi Express Plus

Pure-Fi Anytime

Pure-Fi Dream

The Logitech Pure-Fi Express Plus speaker dock for iPod and iPhone features 360 degree sound, which provides a great listening experience throughout the room. The Pure-Fi Express Plus also includes the ability to run on AC or battery power which, along with an integrated handle makes it easy to listen to music on the move.

The Logitech Pure-Fi Anytime is an iPod/iPhone alarm clock that offers premium sound with innovative features that make it easy and convenient to use in a variety of different lighting conditions. Motion-activated backlit controls allow use in little or no light – and you can even snooze with a wave of their hand. A high contrast display is clearly visible during the day, yet not too bright at night. A recessed dock helps prevent you from accidentally knocking over your iPod/iPhone by providing a protected cavity for docking.

For amazing sound, ingenuity and performance the Logitech Pure-Fi Dream is the ideal music system. The premium music system for iPod and iPhone offers roomfilling acoustics with intelligent controls that make it easy to use in any lighting situation. The backlit controls light up at the wave of a hand, making it a breeze to adjust the controls without turning on the room lights; whilst the auto-dimming display is easily readable at any time of the day or night.

• Motion-activated, backlit controls • Dual alarm with motion-sensing snooze • High-contrast, easy-to-read display

• Motion activated, backlit controls • Auto-dimming display • Backlit remote control • Listen to live content on the digital AM/FM radio

Also featuring a clock with an alarm and a wireless remote control that stores neatly in an integrated compartment when not in use. In all, this is a great way to dock, play and charge any iPod or iPhone.

• 360 degree sound • Portable • Clock with alarm • Wireless remote (with a 10m range)

Webcode 980-000237 SRP £89.99

Webcode 984-000050 SRP £199.99

Webcode 980-000188 SRP £79.99

For more information on Logitech products available from Gem contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or go online to www.gem.co.uk/logitech. Downloadable assets available TEL 01279 822822 FAX 01279 412604 WEB WWW.GEM.CO.UK

15

HMRC Online submissions This year it’ll be mandatory for most businesses to submit annual returns online to HM Revenue & Customs.

With Sage Instant payroll you can submit online and on time to avoid penalties

New Sage Instant Payroll v12

Sage Instant Payroll is easy-to-use payroll software designed especially for new and small businesses with up to 10 employees.

Even without prior payroll experience, this payroll software enables business owners to run their payroll quickly, retain electronic employee records and submit Year End returns to HM Revenue & Customs over the internet

Some of the benefits include: • Automatic calculations: All gross and net pay, tax, National

Insurance, statutory payments such as sick and maternity pay, as well as deductions are automatically calculated • Managing people: Create and maintain employee records,

track holiday and absence days and process paperwork for leavers • Process Payroll Year End: Useful step-by-step guides to help

businesses manage their Payroll Year End and securely submit their year end forms including P14 / P60 to HM Revenue & Customs • Keep up-to-date with payroll legislation: RSS news feeds provide

important information on support news and changes to legislation • Export payments: Sage Instant Payroll integrates with

Sage Instant Accounts, so you save time while book-keeping

Also available Sage Instant Accounts v16 Sage Instant Accounts Plus v16

Sage Instant Financial Package v16

For more information contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822, or visit www.gem.co.uk/sage

Sage Instant Business Package v16

PC TOOLS PROMO

Buy 2 units and get an additional unit free*

Offer available on the following products Registry Mechanic Version 9.0 Spyware Doctor with AntiVirus 2010 Spyware Doctor 2010

Offer available from 4th May – 28th May Products can be mixed and matched Independent offer only Terms and conditions apply

*Buy two units from the above list and receive an additional unit from the above list free. Cheapest unit is the free unit Offer only available for authorised channel resellers Maximum 10 bundles per customer

For more information and to order 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

17

Award‐winning

small business solutions from Mamut Mamut’s award‐winning software is designed specifically for small businesses, with solutions for both PC and Mac users. With Mamut you can choose between integrated packages covering CRM, accounts, stock and e‐commerce all‐in‐one, or functionality‐specific solutions. Combining powerful features with affordable prices, Mamut software offers unbeatable value for money for SME owners looking to run their business more efficiently.

Mamut Mamut’s small business accounting packages for Mac offers great functionality and features to Mac users.

These solutions provide the look and feel expected from innovative Mac solutions, as well as greater integration with Mac OS X applications. Designed for small businessess, Mamut AccountEdge lets users run all areas of their business with one seamless solution.

3 versions available ‐ Prices from £257.00

Mamut

Mamut

All‐in‐one accounting software that makes life simple for accounting staff, and ensures full control. Mamut Accounting software also provides a thorough analysis when needed that minimises administration and saves valuable time and money; making this an ideal tool for small and mid‐size businesses.

The perfect single user solution for small businesses, allows users to run all aspects of their business with one system; from your sales and marketing to invoicing and accounts. Mamut Office offers a wide range of functionality while retaining its user‐ friendliness at an unbeatable price, making it a excellent management system for small businesses.

2 versions available ‐ Prices from £163.00 3 versions available ‐ Prices from £59.00

Mamut

Mamut

Mamut CRM & Sales helps staff to deliver even better customer service, improve sales conversion rates, and spend less time doing admin. With its powerful features, intuitive interface, and outstanding value for money, this is the perfect solution for small businesses wanting to drive sales and revenue.

Mamut Web is a user‐friendly e‐commerce solution that lets small businesses quickly and easily make a website and sell their products on the internet. The software includes website design templates and online credit card payments that allow customers to shop 24/7.

2 versions available ‐ Prices from £139.00

SRP £163.00

For more information on products available from Mamut and to buy today, contact Gem on 01279 822822 or go online at www.gem.co.uk.

www.mamut.co.uk

0510_p19_mamut_Layout 1 14/04/2010 15:42 Page 1

MAMUT

Playing both sides As a new financial year approaches, Mamut is looking to pose a challenge to accounting software leader Sage with its new range of products.

An interview with Bryan Richter, UK country manager of Mamut.

Accounting software might not be the most glamorous field in the IT industry, but it is vital to the health of a company – especially in times when watching the pennies is a crucial part of day-to-day business.

The root of Mamut’s business has always been firmly in the Windows platform, however following the acquisition of the UK business of Australian firm MYOB in 2008, it has become increasingly involved in the Mac market.

This year the firm’s strategy will be to continue to expand in the PC space with the home grown Mamut software, and in the Mac market through the Account Edge product range.

"MYOB had been very successful with the Mac version of their product, which accounted for 25 to 30% of their customer base," said Mamut UK country manager Bryan Richter. "It’s been an interesting challenge for us, since we were primarily a Windows vendor and then inherited a significant Mac customer base. MYOB had a close relationship with a US-based Mac product development specialist called Acclivity, and we decided to continue that relationship. The new Mamut AccountEdge product offers former MYOB users a very natural upgrade path that will be familiar to them in terms of look and feel, but with the added benefit of added services and improved functionality like business intelligence.”

year in April, the company is seeing a lot of customers on both Mac and PC platforms migrating because they need the new tables. "In parallel with the migrations, we’re of course continuing to sell Mamut in its own right. A key focus for us right now is our new generation of product, called Mamut One, which is a software plus services offer.

We'll be looking to promote Mamut One through indirect and direct sales. We’ve found that there’s a lot of excitement in the channel for hosted software, particularly hybrid software plus services products like Mamut One, because they offer resellers the opportunity to move into value added services.

Right now we are probably second or third in the market.

From an accounting software point of view, Sage is the largest in the UK but many SMBs – although they may not like Sage’s software – don’t realise there is a viable alternative. We very much see ourselves as the best alternative available because of our focus and dedication to the market. Our goal is very much to establish ourselves as a firm number 2 and then give a serious challenge to Sage.

To do that, we need to stay focused on our customers and focused on our product; our priority is to provide the best software for the UK’s small businesses at a price they can afford. ”

Also, towards the end of 2009 Mamut stepped into the breach when Microsoft announced that it was no longer going to continue with its Office Accounting software. The software giant asked Mamut to support the existing community using it in the UK. "That was a big deal for us. Microsoft said it wasn't a market that it wanted to continue in, but it had to trust a partner to carry on support for the product, and also offer an upgrade path for the customers. We felt that was a great endorsement by Microsoft to trust us with that customer community," adds Richter.

Richter says that with the beginning of the new financial

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www.exspect.co.uk UK - 01782 74 87 32 Non UK - 0044 1782 74 87 21 Due to the company’s policy of constant improvement, the company reserves the right to alter specification.

“Exspect” and “Exspect logos” are registered trademarks of GEM Distribution Ltd. All trademarks and copyrights are property of their respective owners. “iPhone” is a registered trademark of Apple Inc. This product is not endorsed by Apple Inc.

In Car Holder Advert for Future.indd 3

16/4/10 08:29:06

Project2_Layout 1 19/04/2010 16:44 Page 1

Transforming the way video, audio and images are captured, delivered and experienced.

VHS to DVD

RECORD AND CONVERT

Unlock your memories trapped in old media such as VHS tapes and camcorders.

With just a few clicks, convert your analog music into digital formats including MP3s and audio CDs

PLUG’N’PLAY

ANIMATION

Release your photos from the memory card and create slideshows from your digital photos.

Capture images from your webcam add background images, audio, and music to create your own stop-motion movies.

For more information contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or visit www.gem.co.uk

HONESTECH

Unlocking your memories trapped in old media.

An interview with Jay Choi, Managing Director of Honestech, Inc.

Who is Honestech?

Honestech Inc. is based in Austin, Texas, USA, and is a premier supplier of digital video communication and entertainment solutions. As a pioneer of real-time MPEG encoding and decoding software technologies, the company’s vision is to bring high-quality digital video into PC user’s daily lives by transforming the way digital video is created, delivered and experienced.

At the International Consumer Electronics Show 2009, Honestech received the Innovations Design and Engineering Award, a global recognition for developing products that aligns with the slogan “easily capture, deliver, and experience video and audio.” The award was given to Honestech, which recognises the most innovative consumer electronics (CE) products in the industry's hottest product categories. CES Innovations has become a hallmark for the best designed products in consumer technology. This is the most prestigious award that our company has received since it entered the consumer electronics category with easy-to-use PC software solution.

What is Honestech’s strategy behind their success in the retail channel?

“Our proven strategy is not to compete with existing products in the market. We targeted our products at the mass market by making them easy to use, designing the products and packaging so that it “says what it does, and does what is says”, and where ever possible we integrated novice or easy modes that explains the features and functionality clearly which enable nontechnical consumers to become productive quickly.” Affordable pricing is also the right recipe for mass market.

Would you define “easy to use” more in detail?

First of all, Honestech developed software to allow consumers the ability to use the software without first reading manuals or

taking training classes. Our software products have easy to read and understand user interfaces (UI) with graphics and buttons. In our Novice modes we also reduce the number of steps to complete tasks by simplifying the processes which require fewer mouse clicks. Experienced users can take advantage of additional features, such as transitions, in our advanced modes.

What do you mean “unlocking your memories” trapped in old media?

Our best selling products are conversion products. Our VHS to DVD™ 4.0 Deluxe is the market share leader in its category in U.S. retail as reported by NPD. VHS to DVD™ 4.0 Deluxe enables consumers to capture video from old tape media such as VHS, 8mm, Beta and analog camcorders and convert them to DVD or Video CD media formats or even iPod files. The product enables consumers to pull those tapes out from their garages and closets and unlock those precious memories which were captured on magnetic tapes. Those tapes are degrading rapidly and the players used to view them are becoming harder to find. Being in digital format makes it easier to share the video with families and friends.

Online video blogging of the digitised files is also easily accomplished.

Our newest product, Audio Recorder™ 2.0 Deluxe, is now our second best selling product. With Audio Recorder™ 2.0 Deluxe you can convert your old cassettes, phonograph records, and other analog audio files to digital format for Audio CD’s, MP-3 players, iPod and other digital media players.

Both of these products are all-in-one solutions with hardware, cables, and software which connect your analog device (a VCR or stereo deck) through our VIDBOX™ or MUZBOX™ to a PC. Consumers can install and begin using our products within minutes to “unlock their

trapped memories” to relive and share for years to come.

What do you see as new trends in the software market?

Resurrecting older and non mainstream videos and music which are either not available or hard to find is a trend we are capitalising on. For example, I can’t find New Wave 80’s music on iTunes but have it on my LP’s in a box, warping in my garage.

Not only can I clean up my attic and garage, I can enjoy listening to old favourites and share old memories with loved ones in new digital formats. I see this as a big trend for baby boomers that are looking for software to make it easy for them to bring back old memories in video and music.

And your plans for the European market With our expanding range including the award winning Claymation Studio™ where the user can create stop motion videos, like the technology behind Wallace and Gromit films and our new product FOTOBOX™ Plus which is a USB plug and play photo editing and slideshow creation tool. These are products which further compliment our offering to the consumer in the digital media market of easy to use products that deliver results.

The UK market will be a key focus this year in order to grow breadth and awareness of the Honestech products. We believe that there is a real opportunity for products such as VHS to DVD™ Deluxe and Audio Recorder™ Deluxe where we hope to replicate the success seen in other territories.

For more information on Honestech products please visit uk.honestech.com or contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822.

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GAMESFoCUS Alan Wake From the makers of Max Payne comes one of the most ambitious actionadventures of all-time. Described by Finnish developer Remedy as "a psychological action-thriller," this Xbox 360-exclusive draws influences from Stephen King and David Lynch to create a landmark gaming experience.

Gripping narrative When the wife of the best-selling writer Alan Wake disappears on their vacation, his search turns up pages from a thriller he doesn’t even remember writing. A dark presence stalks the small town of Bright Falls, pushing Wake to the brink of sanity in his fight to unravel the mystery and save his love.

PUBLISHER Microsoft FORMAT Xbox 360 RELEASE DATE 14th May 2010 SRP £49.99

Driven by cinematic principles, the game creates a series of highly charged, atmospheric scenarios, full of convincing, memorable characters, intriguing twists and suspenseful real-time pacing. In addition to the rich narrative, players will engage with "unique problem solving" as they journey tentatively through a stunningly detailed world, and face terrifying enemies which lurk in the shadows. With light his most powerful ally, Alan Wake faces a survival battle quite unlike any other.

Groundbreaking presentation Ever since Alan Wake was first shown off almost five years ago, expectation surrounding Alan Wake has been intense. Showcasing its own groundbreaking proprietary technology, the game boasts "hyper detailed" environments based on the heavily forested regions of the Pacific Northwest.

Notably influenced by the threatening small-town feel of David Lynch's iconic early 90s TV drama Twin Peaks, what seems initially comforting on the surface is, in fact, deeply threatening. With an advanced rendering and lighting system providing unprecedented realism, the lush forests and seemingly quaint buildings and streets are truly brought to life - but perhaps not always in a good way. Described as "awe-inspiring" by The Telegraph, it's clear that Alan Wake pushes the Xbox 360 to new heights, and its exclusivity to the Microsoft console elevates its status further still.

Unique combat As well as being one of the most technologically advanced games of all time, and benefitting from a intense, psychologically charged narrative, Alan Wake also brings huge innovation to its combat system. As Alan's journey progresses, it emerges that his greatest dangers lay in the shadows. With his enemies seemingly able to draw power from the darkness enveloping him, he has to fight back by using any light sources available to him. Set upon by shadowy apparitions armed with hatchets and knives, their appearance is quite unlike any typical monster you might face - in fact, their smoky almost inky appearance gives you the impression they may not actually be there at all...

Combining light with conventional weaponry, the game combines elements in

REASONS TO STOCK • From the makers of Max Payne 1 & 2 • Benchmark-setting production values • Chilling psychological action-thriller • Unique Stephen King-meets-Twin Peaks premise • Major marketing push from Microsoft

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an intuitive familiar way that will make it accessible to players, regardless of their experience. Near the start, players will chance upon items like a flare gun and a spotlight, as well as batteries, flares and gun ammunition, but like a typical survival horror experience, it's important to know when to fight and when to simply flee. Enemies won't simply all charge at you, either, and display a canny sense of self-preservation. Shoot one, and the others will disperse in response to avoid getting hit. Realism also plays a distinct factor in Alan Wake.

This isn't a game you'll be able to reload instantly, or aim with uncanny precision. He's scared, unfamiliar with firearms, and takes a while to feed bullets into his gun. It's all designed to amp up the tension, and sometimes the only thing to do will be to try and get the hell away. The psychological terror of it all is palpable, and keeping alive until daybreak is a fraught process. Alan Wake is, quite simply, one of the most exciting looking games ever created. Skilfully combining an engaging and immersive storyline with incredible technology and intense and original combat elements, this is simply an incredible achievement.

About Remedy Entertainment Based in Espoo, Finland, Remedy Entertainment was formed in 1995, and after releasing top-down PC racing game Death Rally in 1996, found international fame with the release of Max Payne in 2001. Heavily influenced by film noir and the intense slow-motion action scenes in John Woo movies like Hard Boiled, Max Payne was the perfect fusion of gunplay and groundbreaking visuals, and helped popularise the 'Bullet-Time' technique within numerous videogames thereafter. A successful sequel followed in 2003, and since then the 45-strong team has been working on Alan Wake, its next blockbuster.

Initially demoed way back in 2005, the game looks set to become one of the most important titles of this generation.

If you're a sucker for slick production values, this is a game you'll need to keep an eye on Gamespot

The game's presentation is, quite frankly, awe-inspiring The Telegraph

What consistently impressed me about Alan Wake is how well it is constructed IGN

The presentation is stunning, caught in a beautiful twilight between ethereal and realistic Eurogamer

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Red Dead Redemption No-one does gritty, uncompromising drama quite like Rockstar, and Red Dead Redemption carries on that proud tradition in blistering style.

Right from the breathtaking opening cinematics, it’s quite obvious that Rockstar isn’t merely content with rebooting its long-dormant franchise, but to create the kind of benchmark-setting action game that tops anything in the genre.

PUBLISHER Rockstar Games FORMAT Xbox 360 / PlayStation 3 RELEASE DATE 21 May 2010

Set back in the dying embers of the old Wild West in 1911, the game focuses on the trials that befall John Marston, a one-time outlaw on the lookout for a man named Bill Williamson. With his family in government captivity, he’s in no mood to play nicely.

With the openworld scale and ambition of a Grand Theft Auto title, comparisons to the car-jacking crime epic are obvious, but Red Dead Redemption is a lot more than simply a Wild West GTA reskin.

Going hands-on with the game, it’s immediately apparent how many areas Rockstar has improved upon. It’s easy to feel the love that has gone into the combat, for example, which combines a slick over-the shoulder system with intuitive cover-based mechanics.

It’s a precise and flexible system, which allows players to let off shots onthe-run, or with zoomed-in precision. With the flexibility of free-aiming or auto-aim, the game caters for all tastes and variances in skill without ever blunting the excitement.

WHY WE LOVE IT • Deep, immersive world • From the makers of Grand Theft Auto • Beautiful, cinematic, story-driven gameplay.

• Fantastic, engaging combat • Additional multiplayer elements complete the package

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Shoot-outs truly capture the gritted teeth brutality of a Spaghetti Western, and once you gain the ability to slow-down time briefly with your ‘Dead Eye’ ability, you’ll be able to take down an entire posse of bandits with one frenzied display of blasting aptitude.

Activated for a few crucial seconds, you can swiftly ‘paint’ each target before you unleash all your shots with deadly accuracy. Not only is it an effective way of getting the jump on a group of enemies, it’s just damned cool.

But that’s not to say the game lacks challenge. With superb enemy AI, you’ll find yourself scrabbling for cover to ensure you’re not limping away with buckshot in your hide.

Accompanying you on your journey is your ever-faithful horse, and it provides a useful means of getting around the sprawling desert landscape. Rendered with stunning attention to detail, it’s just one of many elements of the game which not only looks amazing, but is fun to experience.

In terms of the game’s visual appeal, it’s hard to recall a game being quite so consistently cinematic in every conceivable way. The first time you walk into one of the game’s many towns, the sense of scale blows you away. Vast, impressive vistas stretch off into the distance, with the ability to visit anything you see on the horizon.

Said to be as big as the mighty San Andreas, you can travel around the environment by stagecoach or railroad, making it easily accessible at the same time. But it’s not just the sheer scale of the place that is worthy of praise, but the sheer attention to detail at every turn.

Rockstar has always excelled in delivering engaging cut-scenes, but Red Dead Redemption takes it up another notch with some of the best lipsynching and voice acting delivery yet. With the spirit of Clint Eastwood infused into the game’s lead, John Marston, there’s a real sense that the game isn’t content to be just another action game. Regardless of whether you meet a bit part character or someone crucial to the story, this is a game which cuts no corners.

GAMESFOCUS

Combined with a strong narrative, this is a game you will truly immerse yourself in from the opening encounters, through the whole 40 hour-plus journey. But this is also a game which puts choice right in the hands of the player, with a deep honour system ensuring that your actions impact directly on how characters interact with you.

If you storm in a nearby town and decide to break up a domestic, that character might help you out later, or give you better prices at their store. But should you cause trouble, you’ll find yourself not only on the run from the law, but potentially having to settle the bounty on your head to get them off your back.

Of course, there will be times when you’ll have a whole pack of enemies on your tail, and the game’s Wanted system gives an easy illustration of how determined the enemy are to chase after you. As with GTA, the trick is to try and escape the boundary of the red circle on the radar, ensuring that tense chases will also be the order of the day with a price remaining on your head once you have escaped your would be captors.

Once out in the wild, you can also indulge in a spot of hunting and shooting, blasting birds out of the sky, or skinning animals to sell as meat back in the towns. With tons of off-mission content available to sample at any time, Red Dead Redemption is as deep an action game as imaginable, and looks certain to be one of the year’s true blockbusters.

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FAX 01279 412604 WEB WWW.GEM.CO.UK

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Prince Of Persia: The Forgotten Sands Taking place prior to the events of The Warrior Within, the latest Prince Of Persia adventure returns to the classic Sands Of Time 'universe' that captivated gamers back in the PS2 and Xbox era.

PUBLISHER Ubisoft FORMAT Xbox 360 / PS3 / Wii PC / DS / PC

Discovering the royal palace under attack, the Prince has to gamble on using his signature time-reversing powers to save the kingdom from certain destruction. Embarking on a typically epic adventure, the Price will "learn to bear the mantle of true leadership, and discover that great power often comes with a great cost".

Aiming to reinvent the critically acclaimed gameplay style of old, players will once again engage in stunning puzzle-laden environments, where players will become immersed in a spectacular free-running journey packed with acrobatics and fluid, intense combat.

RELEASE DATE 21st May SRP £29.99 - £49.99

Designed to challenge players with huge, complex environments packed with traps, ledges, and giant levers, careful timing, daring acrobatics and observation will be a must. Early feedback suggests that long-term fans will lap up the new direction of the The Forgotten Sands.

With puzzles once again at the heart of the experience, The Forgotten Sands represents a dramatically different experience from the 2008 'reboot', and will require players to pull off quick button combos and feats of skilful jumping precision. Benefitting, once again, with "dizzying feats of acrobatic prowess", the Prince will be able to control nature and time with an "unparalleled mastery over his environment and his enemies."

REASONS TO STOCK • Return to form for a classic franchise

Unlockable as the game progresses, the Prince will be able to summon destructive tornados, or freeze jets of water which he can use to create poles that enable him to access otherwise out-of-reach places. But his elemental powers also come in very useful during combat, too, with the Prince able to throw a wall of flame, icy spikes, or buff his defences.

• Better-looking than ever • Much-improved combat • Spectacular setpieces • True blockbuster release

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Swordplay remains an important part of the gameplay, with the Prince regularly set-upon by packs of enemies determined to snuff him out.

With a fighting system that draws upon the dodge-and-counter system seen in recent brawling classics like Yakuza and Batman Arkham Asylum, it's a graceful improvement that takes the combat to a new level.

Boasting many technological leaps, the advanced Anvil engine makes The Forgotten Sands the best-looking Prince Of Persia yet. Ubisoft promises "unforgettable set-pieces" and "epic wow moments" which will rank alongside the most impressive action sequences yet seen in a videogame. Wii owners needn't feel left out, though, with Ubisoft pulling out all the stops to produce "a smooth, clear and impressive graphical experience".

Promising around 15 hours of original storyline and alternate paths, secret areas and unlockables, The Forgotten Sands is set to be one of this summer's key blockbuster titles.

GAMESFoCUS

It's an enormous relief to go back to the brainy environmental puzzles of The Sands of Time, specially with much-improved combat Eurogamer

The platforming is spot-on.

Running along walls, dodging traps, and trying to figure out how to get from Point A to Point B is a blast and the controls feel more natural than ever IGN

The environments and surroundings looked great Gamespot

PRE-ORDER PRINCE OF PERSIA NOW!

Exclusive Character Skins available!

It's genuinely refreshing to play a game that isn't afraid to test its players, and there's something properly exciting about setting off on a chain of jumps, vaults and climbs Videogamer

For more information and to pre-order today, contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 Limited codes available.

Indies only.

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Make the most of your Ubisoft bundle games We highlight the great accessories in your Ubisoft bundles to show you how it can encourage additional game sales.

Special Pricing available on these products!

10th - 21st May Contact your Gem account manager for details on the great pricing available to you!

Independent offer only Terms and conditions apply

Your Shape FORMAT Wii AVAILABLE Out Now SRP £49.99 (with camera)

Your Shape is a revolutionary new fitness game that is laser-focused on the player, ensuring that they get the most personalised, effective and fun workout possible. The game also comes with an exclusive camera which, using proprietary fitness tracking technology, scans the body, giving the player a full body shape analysis, and acts as a controller leaving the player free to exercise hands-free.

Racket Sports Party

Unlike any other fitness product, the camera projects the players’ image onto the TV, and because the camera tracks movements, the coach will give real-time input on how the workouts are going and advice on how to do it better.

FORMAT Wii AVAILABLE Out Now SRP £19.99/ £39.99 With Camera

Racket Sports Party delivers an attractive, interactive experience for all the family to enjoy. For the first time players have the opportunity to play Tennis, Table Tennis, Squash, Badminton and beach tennis, all in one game. Mini games and tournaments transport players to 40 different locations, so players can compete against each other on a cruise ship on the Nile or in a Las Vegas Casino.

Compatible with both the Ubisoft Motion-tracking camera and the Wii MotionPlus players have the option of controller-free playing as well as enhanced game play with the Wii MotionPlus, taking the game to the next level.

Red Steel 2 FORMAT Wii AVAILABLE Out Now SRP £39.99 / £49.99 with Wii Motion Plus

Red Steel 2 returns created just for the Wii, and takes full advantage of the Wii remote and Wii MotionPlus accessories.

Set to be one of the biggest Wii games of 2010, the game doesn’t disappoint.

Described as modern Wild Wild East, the adventure takes place in a high-tech metropolis located in the middle of the desert, where the East meets the West. With the Wii MotionPlus, player’s movements are replicated on-screen, putting emphasis on swinging and shooting. The ability for the Wii MotionPlus to sense the strength of a swing allows the full impact of the players power and precision when fighting.

For more information on Ubisoft titles & bundle products available from Gem contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or go online at www.gem.co.uk

GAMESFoCUS

facing a thunderous 90mph delivery, players will be able to accurately survey the field placement and smash the ball through a gap.

International Cricket 2010

In addition, an enhanced 360 degree control system will allow players "the ultimate control out on the crease", with the new 'Power Stick' providing the widest shot selection yet.

Controllable via the right analogue stick, players can dictate power and direction with precision, allowing them to push for quick singles or risky power shots with a flexible degree of intuitiveness.

FORMAT Xbox 360 / PS3 RELEASE DATE 18th June 2010 PUBLISHER Codemasters SRP TBC

Following on from last summer's stunning chart-topping success of Ashes Cricket 2009, Codemasters is preparing to lay on another feast of cricket this summer.

Promising to deliver an even more authentic experience, the officially licensed International Cricket 2010 will bring all the knife-edge drama, tactical intensity and visceral excitement of the sport to 360, PS3 and PC.

As part of a raft of tweaks and improvements, gamers will be able to get even closer to the action this year thanks to the new 'Action Cam'. In addition to the game's traditional broadcast-style camera views, players will now get to experience key moments of play up-close and personal.

For example, when bowling, the camera will closely follow the player's run-up and delivery, while the batting side will view the action from just behind the wicket, over the player's shoulder. Promising to enhance the anticipation of

As ever, players can expect realistic physics, authentic commentary from the game's luminaries a well as extensive multiplayer options, in what promises to be the best cricketing title yet.

Reasons To Stock • New, improved iteration of chart-topping title • Great new features, including Action Cam and Power Stick • Fully licensed, with all the players, teams, stadia and commentators

F1 2010 FORMAT Xbox 360 / PS3 / PC / Wii / PSP RELEASE DATE September 2010 PUBLISHER Codemasters SRP TBC

Due for release in September of 2010 is Codemasters' hugely-anticipated Formula One racing simulator, F1 2010.

From the makers of Colin McRae: DiRT and Race Driver: GRID, comes an officiallylicensed title which features all the drivers, teams, circuits of the 2010 season, including no fewer than four world champions - Jenson Button, Lewis Hamilton, Fernando Alonso and returning F1 legend Michael Schumacher.

Developed using Codies' increasingly impressive EGO game engine, this stunning tech promises to provide an authentic recreation of the handling and aerodynamics of a blistering 200MPH+ racing machine, capturing the raw thrill of challenging the greats at the very pinnacle of motorsport.

F1 2010 will feature a wide range of game modes, including one-off races, time trials, full Grand Prix race weekends on an expanded 26-car grid. All the world's most glamourous and iconic racing tracks will feature in stunning high definition, including Spa, Monza, Silverstone and Monaco, and, for the first time, Singapore's night race and the Yas Marina circuit in Abu Dhabi.

Undoubtedly one of the most highly anticipated features is the game's innovative career mode, where players will engage in intense rivalries with fellow drivers, as well as deal with the pressures of life in the media spotlight. Building on

the between-race system used so effectively in GRID and DiRT, you'll interact with your engineer, agent, team-mate, rival drivers and even journalists, potentially tipping team balance in your favour depending on how you field questions. Also set to feature prominently is an advanced damage model, a fully dynamic weather system and extensive competitive multiplayer options that supports up to 13 cars on the track online simultaneously. With the media momentum building behind Codies' latest foray into high octane racing, F1 2010 looks certain to re-establish Formula 1's place among the gaming elite this autumn.

Reasons To Stock • The only Formula 1 title, and the first to arrive on PC or Xbox for many years • Fully licensed, featuring all the drivers, teams and circuits of the 2010 season • Wide variety of game modes to cater for all tastes

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Red Dead Redemption Limited Edition

available from Gem

For more information and to order today, contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822

OUTLAWS TO THE END 21 MAY

ROCKSTARGAMES.COM/REDDEADREDEMPTION

©2005 - 2010 Rockstar Games, Inc. Rockstar Games, the r logo, Red Dead Redemption and all related marks and logos are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of Take-Two Interactive Software. Microsoft, Xbox, Xbox 360, Xbox LIVE, and the Xbox logos are trademarks of the Microsoft group of companies.

“2”, “PlayStation”, “PS3” and “À” are trademarks or registered trademarks of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. All other marks and trademarks are properties of their respective owners. All rights reserved.

GAMESFoCUS

Super Mario Galaxy 2 FORMAT Wii RELEASE DATE 11th June 2010 PUBLISHER Nintendo SRP £44.99

In a summer crammed full of genuine blockbusters, Super Mario Galaxy 2 stands proud as one of Nintendo's mostanticipated Wii releases for years.

This sequel to the stunning 2007 original, Nintendo reckons it "re-energises" the franchise, thanks to an array of wonderfully creative new gravity-defying levels, innovative power-ups and the ability to team-up with his old dinosaur buddy, Yoshi.

Promising "everything you love about the first game and more," Super Mario Galaxy 2 once again has the tubby plumber traversing a series of weird and wonderful environments that wrap around themselves, and have you bounding giddily with disorientated glee.

Positively bursting with effortless charm and beauty, this delightful world is bursting with new toys and gadgets to enjoy as you manically hoover up snaking trails of coins and kick hapless hordes of Goombas into orbit.

One such new power-up allows Mario to drill right through a planet's surface and tunnel all the way to the other side.

Sometimes this acts as a means of rudely disrupting a gaggle of enemies, or as a way of carving a route right to the top of otherwise inaccessible areas. On another

In addition, you can also utilise Yoshi in a variety of different ways to traverse the environment, using his sticky tongue to attach and swing across ravines. Running with the trademark wobble, eating a Dash Pepper sends him into a frenzy, allowing him to sprint dementedly up steep slopes and even vertical inclines.

quick succession.

Visually, the game's delightful felt-like texturing and dazzling array of wonderfully weird enemies ensures that it is among the very best-looking games on the Wii. With a jangling Roald Dahl technicolour dreamscape appeal, every inch is a loopy distraction designed to lure you into this strange and beautiful world. Filled with oddball enemies and crazed obstacles, each and every level is a dreamy playground like no other. With screaming baby piranha plants, giant rolling pins, clanking mechanical beasts, dragon-headed snakes and Octogoombas, the mischiefmakers you come across are loveably devilish. Bursting with new ideas, Super Mario Galaxy 2 is every bit as fresh, charming and inventive as the excellent original, and looks set to be an essential addition to the Wii this summer

Meanwhile, consuming a Blimp Fruit inflates Yoshi to reach otherwise unscalable heights. Holding down a button allows you to hold your breath, but reaching your target often involves chowing down one fruit after another in

Reasons To Stock • Another sure-fire first party hit from Nintendo • Critical acclaim assured • Huge marketing presence

occasion, such gadgets come into play during tense boss battles, allowing you to figure out a weak spot and bring them down in cunning fashion.

Elsewhere, discovering an egg allows you to smash it and hop on the back of Yoshi. Like in other Mario classics down the years, the friendly dinosaur allows you to grab items with his tongue and then fire them right back at enemies.

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Samurai Warriors 3 FORMAT Wii RELEASE DATE 28th May 2010 PUBLISHER Nintendo SRP £44.99

WarioWare D.I.Y. FORMAT DS RELEASE DATE 30th April 2010 PUBLISHER Nintendo SRP £34.99

Let your imagination run wild and create microgames, comics and records with WarioWare D.I.Y. Throughout the years, Nintendo have created hundreds of microgames for the WarioWare series, now they want to see what you’ve got. The WarioWare D.I.Y. game lets players create the same king of microgames that are at the heart of the WarioWare series. Players get the opportunity to design every aspect of their creations, including graphics, animation, music and rules.

WarioWare D.I.Y. comes with more than 90 pre-made games to play, but players who have access to a broadband internet connection can wirelessly download a virtually endless supply of user-generation games, or upload their own creations to share with the world.

enables the player to draw four-panel black and white comics to share with friends, and to create their own music, either by using the 90 sample songs as a guide or by drawing on their own creativity.

As part of the game Nintendo will challenge WarioWare D.I.Y. players to create games based on a specific theme, and the best submissions will be made available for download to players.

Reasons To Stock • New mini-games available for download • Create your own rules, graphics and animations • Comes with over 90 pre-made games to play

When creating games, players can utilise a library of pre-made graphics and sound samples, borrow elements from other microgames on their systems, or start from scratch. Imagine creating the rules for a game, decided how things move, and what question mark boxes do. With this step-by-step process, it’s easy to see how the pieces fit together.

Aside from creating mini-games WarioWare D.I.Y.

Sports Island DS Featuring an innovative new game mode and a completely fresh storyline, Samurai Warriors 3, the newest title in the Samurai Warriors franchise makes its debut exclusively on the Nintendo Wii. Taking full advantage of the Nintendo Classic Controller PRO, the game delivers an unparalleled Tactical action battlefield experience.

Coming face-to-face with armies of highly-trained warriors, players can feel their pulse pounding as they play as any one of over 35 new and returning samurai and ninjas. Featuring all new devastating fighting techniques, players can wreak havoc with the all-powerful Musou attack “Kaiden”, and unleash infinite combos with the new “Eigi” technique.

With a staggering number of scenarios to conquer in Story mode, players get to step back in time and experience Feudal Japan when it was in a state of constant civil war and torn by ruthless power struggles.

Offering a two-player online and offline co-op, Samurai Warriors 3 has enhanced sharing features and a special new game mode that offers players unique control of characters that has never been seen before.

Reasons To Stock • Over 35 new and returning playable characters • New fighting techniques • Multiplayer in each of the game’s modes of play

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FORMAT DS RELEASE DATE 7th May 2010 PUBLISHER Konami SRP £29.99 Bringing the popular Sports Island game to the DS for the first time, Konami have ensured that this game is “the everybody sports game”.

Featuring 10 all-new diverse sports specifically designed for the handheld, Sports Island uses a combination of the touch screen capabilities and button use to give the player complete control.

There is an incredible amount of variety to the game, with players gaining the opportunity to try their hand at Rugby, Table Tennis, Arm wrestling and Bobsled as well as many more. Boasting a unique control system, player can steer their on-screen sky-diver into position, or chase and flick towards the target on the screen to shoot Clay Penguins.

For added competitive fun, up to six players can join through DS Download player working together or against each other using just one copy of the game.

Players can also set up leagues to keep track of the best performers in each event, while bespoke teams can be created. Unique and personalised names can be given to individuals, so each player can be matched to their in game character.

In addition to the new sports and multiplayer

functionality, players are also able to create their own teams by designing and customising uniforms, changing athlete abilities and altering the physical characteristics of the athletes themselves.

Reasons To Stock • New diverse selection of sports • Multiplayer functionality • Design your own teams by customising uniforms, and changing athlete abilities

GAMESFoCUS

Sin & Punishment: Successor of the Skies

Runaway: Twist of Fate

FORMAT Wii RELEASE DATE 7th May 2010 PUBLISHER Nintendo SRP £44.99

Sin and Punishment: Successor of the Skies is a relentless, non-stop sensory assault, keeping players fully engrossed in non-stop madness from start to finish.

Played in chapters, the game follows the mysterious story of Isa Jo and Kachi as together they fight a battle for humanity between Inner and Outer space. The two characters can fly about the ground and perform feats of fast shooting as they dash and glide on jet packs and flying boards, battling to repel the hordes of enemies with guns, swords and a powerful bomb. Each character also has their own charge shot; Kachi is able to target multiple enemies, whilst Isa’s attack is one focused explosion.

FORMAT PC, DS RELEASE DATE 7th May 2010 PUBLISHER Ubisoft SRP PC - £19.99 / DS - £24.99 As well as single player gameplay, there is a co-operative mode in which players can be joined by a second player who can help on any mission by shooting down enemies on screen. Players can then compare their scores online on an international leader board with the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection.

With unbelievable variety of blistering action throughout the game, players never get more than five seconds to think before the next assault, ensuring that players are kept on their toes.

Reasons To Stock • Action packed arcade game • Lots of hidden gameplay elements • Compare scores on the international ranking and leader board with Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection

Every action-packed level has been designed to throw enemies, including gigantic bosses called Commanders, against the player in a certain order.

Players will need to study a stage and its waves of enemies in great detail in order to achieve the best score possible.

The game works with both the Wii Remote and Classic Controller, as well as working with the Wii Zapper that enables players to make the most of the quick fire game play.

Following the success of the first two Runaway titles, Runaway: Twist of Fate sees Brian and Gina embark on their third and final adventure.

After a colourful second instalment of the game which took place in the islands of Hawaii, the game now takes the player to a more mature and urban universe for this last adventure; and for the very first time players will be able to control Brian as well as Gina, who both have an extremely important role to play in the story.

What Did I Do To Deserve This, My Lord!? 2 FORMAT PSP RELEASE DATE 7th May 2010 PUBLISHER Techmo Koei Europe SRP £24.99 The long awaited sequel to Holy Invasion of Privacy Badman! Is finally here with a new name.

As the God of Destruction, the player must create a dungeon that is both difficult and powerful enough to fend off the human hero invaders, using some thought, skill, and a little luck. The dungeon must have a self-sustaining ecosystem, so players must strategically did and create a dungeon with a balanced food chain.

What Did I Do to Deserve This, My Lord!? 2 is loaded with tons of evolving monsters, environments, and heroes for hours of game play. With five entire new continents to take over and a total of 40 stages, there is over four times the amount of stages to beat compare to the original game.

The game also offers over three times the number of monster, many of which now have some disturbingly-useful behaviours to keep an aspiring God of Destruction on his toes. The monsters can suddenly and radically mutate, changing their size,

physical form and strength to combat the heroes, of which there are twice as many compared to the original game, and stop them capturing the Overlord.

Another addition to the sequel is the inclusion of the Overlord’s Chamber. In this mode, players can grow their monsters and observe the change and mutations they can undergo, in a laboratory separate from the real time pressures of the main game challenges.

Reasons To Stock • Long awaited sequel • Enhanced gameplay • Over 40 stages to complete

During the 6 main chapters that represent the bulk of this new adventure, Brian and Gina will guide the player across the United States of America through more than 120 highly detailed places. Whilst dozens of puzzles and mysteries have been cleverly conceived and their difficultly has been brilliantly measured to give every single player something to look for without getting totally stuck.

Players will also be able to use all sorts of tools at any time to help them in their progress, as well as being able to contact Joshua, who will point them in the right direction if needed.

Runaway: Twist of Fate also offers an inventory system that allows players to check each item from every angle possible.

The ingenious hint system has also been added that will guide the player through difficult situations without giving away the solution to the puzzles.

With a new graphic engine, players will now be able to experience the game with high-resolution backgrounds, more detailed and expressive characters and more realistic animations.

Reasons To Stock • Third and final instalment in the successful Runaway series • Independent new adventure, so gamers will not need to have played the previous game • Full of novelties and unexpected turns

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

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12/04/2010 15:18