The Future - April 2012 Edition by Exertis

www.gem.co.uk April 2012

“ “ “PlayStation” and “∆ O X “ are trademarks or registered trademarks of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. GRAN TURISMO® ©1997-2012 Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. “Gran Turismo” and “GT” are registered trademarks of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. All rights reserved.

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CONTENTS

05 EDITORS COMMENTS

Miss Le Duc gives a summary of recent goings on in the magazine, the company and the industry

06 WE WANT ONE

The T500 RS is the ultimate in true racing simulation. Find out about this unique racing wheel here

07 GEM NEWS

The April update on all things Gem, featuring a fresh, new look company website

09 NEW TO US

Understand the genius behind Roku, a new and exclusive vendor for Gem and leading U.S. streaming platform

11 Q&A

Meet Philip Munro, Gem’s Head of Business Development, and find out what he brings to the table.

13 THRUSTMASTER & HERCULES

The Future experiences the quality of Thrustmaster gaming controllers and Hercules PC peripherals

15 KASPERSKY

Introducing Kaspersky PURE Total Security 2.0, the second version of the first-class security software

16 LOGITECH

It is all about wireless connectivity with the Wireless Boombox and Mini Boombox from Logitech

22 HONESTECH

Save your most treasured video content with the Honestech VHS to DVD™ 5.0 Deluxe, the easy conversion option

24 PANDORA’S TOWER

Nintendo show off the eagerly anticipated, highly engaging Wii exclusive role-playing game that is sure to have you gripped with excitement

28 NINTENDO

Mario dominates both page 28 and 29 with two of his newest titles to quench the thirst of fans around the globe.

32 DIRT SHOWDOWN

Codemasters announce the latest intense, destructive arcade release from the multi-million selling DiRT series.

34 KINECT STAR WARS

With superb motion gaming, Kinect Star Wars is right on track to be one of Kinect’s biggest titles to date.

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@gemdistribution

www.linkedin.com/company/gem-distribution-ltd

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Next Working & Same Day Delivery

Established Trading Relationships with all Major Retailers & Leading Independents

24/7 Secure Client Portal Access

Added Value Services

Full Suite of Financial Services Reverse Logistics Dedicated 3PL Facility Direct Delivery to the Consumer UK, European & International Delivery

Gem Logistics is a dedicated third party logistics provider who manages the distribution of physical product on behalf of some of the leading DVD, Music, PC, Consumer Electronics and Video Game Publishers. We have proven experience in providing retail ready and direct to consumer solutions and by working pro-actively with our clients, we continue to develop a range of added value services and bespoke solutions to meet their aspirations.

For these solutions and many more, call us today on:

0845 456 6400 Or Online at:

(W) www.gem.co.uk/gemlogistics (E) enquiries@gemlogistics.co.uk

COMEDITOR’S editor’s comment

With the long, cold, dark evenings behind us for another year, spring is ﬁnally upon us. Spring incites thoughts of nurture, emergence and growth and the same is apparent within Gem. We’re delighted that some of our longest standing vendors are developing with the market and consumer demand to introduce new innovative products such as the new audio range from Logitech who started in 1981 with mice and have since developed into the peripherals giant we know today.

Faye Le Duc PR & Marketing Manager

The market is evolving into an eco-friendly world, making room for new vendors such as Energenie and their fantastic range of energy saving products allowing you, our customers, to cater for the greenest of tech-enthusiasts. Growth can be seen in a variety of ways within Gem; our corporate site launched in March to reﬂect the variety of services Gem now offers and the demand for creative solutions has never been higher, be it dynamic marketing campaigns or bespoke bundles, we’re developing to give our customers point of difference in a competitive market. Not only are our services growing but our portfolio of vendors is increasing to ensure that we cater for all requirements and stay ahead of the game. The evolution of the digital platform has created a market for companies like our newest vendor Roku with their content streaming products, as well as expanded Gem’s services to offer digital distribution with the acquisition of Ztorm. In this month’s edition of The Future we’re delighted to welcome some of our new partners, Thrustmaster and Roku to name but a few, as well as introduce some exciting new products from iFrogz and Honestech. Philip Munro, our Head of Business Development has taken to the hot seat in our Q&A and MAGIX share some of their updates for the quarter.

19th April 2012 The Lancaster London Hotel Lancaster Terrace London London W2 2TY Nominated Awards: High Street Distribution Team, Gem Digital Distribution Team, Ztorm Special Award, Darren Houghton

The MCV Awards 2012 take place on the 19th April and, following an excellent PCR Awards last month. We’ve been nominated for a few more awards so many thanks to everyone who voted for us!

Faye Managing Editor Faye Le Duc

Publisher Gem Creative

Editorial Assistant Julian Cinque

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

Web Executive Peter Cox Design Sophie Hammond Finn MacLean Gaming Editor Kristan Reed

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Head of Marketing Katie Rawlings

Contact Details Telephone Office: +44 01279 822800 Sales: +44 01279 822822 Facsimile Office: +44 01279 416228 Sales: +44 01279 412604 To place an order please call 01279 822822 between 9am-6pm Monday-Friday, or visit store.gem.co.uk to buy online* To open an account please visit ww.gem.co.uk or call our new accounts team on 01279 822800. *Trade account required. Printed in the uk by Cadmium Multimedia www.cadmiummultimedia.co.uk

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We Want One

Power. Precision. Realism. The Thrustmaster T500 RS Wheel is the deﬁnitive accessory for GT5 fans The T500 RS wheel and pedal set is a true racing simulator designed for the most hard-core racing fans. Optimised for Gran Turismo 5, the ergonomics of the wheel completely enhance the gameplay, performance and driving sensations. The sequential gearlevers mounted on the base feature large 17cm levers that are constantly accessible without letting go of the wheel whilst the spacing and height of the metal pedal set is also fully adjustable to accommodate individual driving preferences. With over 20 years’ experience in the development of racing wheels, Thrustmaster has created the ultimate wheel and pedal set for Gran Turismo 5. Whether you prefer ﬂoor mounted F1 style, or suspended GT style, the T500 RS will deliver the most intense racing experience without compromise.

For more information on Thrustmaster, contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or go online at store.gem.co.uk

EDITOR’S gem news

Gem News BRINGING BACK THE BOOM WITH TDK Gem launches new audio range from TDK Following the signing of a new agreement with Imation, Gem is delighted to announce an exciting new range of audio products from TDK. With a unique look, the fantastic new range from TDK boasts top of the range audio technology whilst restoring an element of retro class and is set to retail between £299 and £499. The current series includes the Sound Cube, the 2 Speaker Boombox and, for the ultimate home audio experience, the 3 Speaker Boombox with a high power built in 15w subwoofer for deep base and two 10w 6” drivers for crystal clear vocals and crisp highs. All 3 products are compatible with the full range of Apple MP3 players from the iPhone to the iPad, charge whilst they play and also include a built in AM/FM radio.

GEM LAUNCH CORPORATE WEBSITE Explore why Gem really is the perfect partner This month see’s the launch of the new Gem Corporate website, focusing predominantly on Gem UK and the divisions within, which make up our full service offering. With separate Logistics and Creative companies at your provision, Gem is here to accommodate any area of your business that you wish to improve on.

The main objective of the Gem Corporate website is to help educate both our vendors and customers in understanding Gem’s wide range of services whilst not forgetting our product driven B2B website, which is still available at store.gem.co.uk for you to register for an account and buy products online.

The new and more accessible Gem Corporate website is there to focus on our relationship with you, the customer. Read all about our subsidiaries, partners, teams and have access to all Gem and vendor related news and press as it happens. Our press centre provides downloadable press releases, Gem related assets and our in-house publication The Future, available to read online.

With Gem focusing on the online market more and more, please take the chance to follow us on Twitter and Facebook where brand new campaigns and competitions are on the way. For any further enquiries please contact online@gem.co.uk

As well as the fantastic range of TDK Audio products, Gem is thrilled to add Memorex to their portfolio with a selection of USB drives and flash memory from Memorex, the market-share leader in North America in optical media and media accessories.

www.gem.co.uk

GEM APPOINTS NEW DIRECTOR ANTHONY HAWORTH JOINS GEM AS PURCHASING DIRECTOR We’re delighted to announce that Gem has hired Anthony Haworth as Purchasing Director for Gem Distribution.

market. Anthony will be responsible for Gem’s purchasing and dedicated vendor management teams whilst utilising his in-depth knowledge of Far East procurement and developing private label strategies.

Anthony brings with him a wealth of experience from his time at Spicers UK where he held a number of senior positions over the past 14 years including European Purchasing Director for Electronic Office supplies.

Anthony is also tasked with negotiating new and improved terms to help key suppliers get the best in their route market.

Anthony has joined Gem at a crucial time in the development of Gem’s service offering as we expand into the digital

TO BUY ONLINE store.gem.co.uk

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Experience the best of Microsoft’s amazing technology and innovative design with the signature touch series

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EDITOR’S new to us

The ultimate in TV entertainment We are thrilled to announce the signing of a new agreement with Roku, the leading streaming platform in the U.S., as they storm the UK with their media players. The Roku platform enables the online streaming of video, music and gaming content to any TV without a PC. The way consumer’s access their media has evolved into a digital world where content is available at the click of a button. The partnership with Roku will further strengthen Gem’s proposition to supply customers with innovative products and we’re delighted to have been selected as their distribution partner in the UK. The Roku LT and the Roku 2 XS will be the first players available from Gem and will feature more than 40 channels of content from Netflix and Crackle, to live and on-demand sports as well as music, photos and videos from Facebook and Flickr. The Roku LT provides a low cost, easy to set up solution for media streaming, connecting to the Internet instantly using Wi-Fi and supporting up to 720p HD video. For the ultimate TV entertainment and unique casual gaming experience, the Roku 2 XS comes with a motion-controlled gaming remote which connects via Bluetooth and a MicroSD slot for additional game storage. With all of the content found on the Roku LT, the Roku 2 XS supports up to 1080p HD video and enjoys additional benefits such as USB and Ethernet ports for a wired connection, as well as built in Wi-Fi.

TO BUY ONLINE store.gem.co.uk

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HEADPHONES BUILT FOR SOUND BUILT FOR MUSIC

HEADPHONES & ACCESSORIES AVAILABLE NOW CONTACT YOUR GEM ACCOUNT MANAGER ON 01279 822 822

Q&A

Follow Gem for the latest news & updates

Philip Munro under the spotlight Get to know Gem’s Head of Business Development What was your ﬁrst job and how did you get into it? Straight from boarding school into banking, Eurobond dealing to be precise, a job I obtained on my own merits I might add. Anyone who says it was as a result of my father being on the board of The Bank of England is misguided.

What has been your toughest moment at work so far and how did you resolve it? Toughest moment? I can’t say there has been a single moment that stands out. Every day delivers new challenges, turning these challenges into opportunities is reward in itself.

Tell us a bit about your role at Gem? My job title “Head of Business Development” says it all. I look at ways in which we can grow our business in both traditional and non-traditional market sectors to ensure that Gem continues to deliver innovative products with great quality at competitive prices.

Print or online news? No question, print. I’m old school. What would your superpower be? The ability to read minds… Can you imagine?

What do you hope to bring to the table that may differentiate from what’s been demonstrated before? I don’t hope; I do. I bring a fresh pair of eyes and focus to the business. I give the tools to my colleagues to deliver incremental proﬁtable business to Gem.

Tony Cornock, UK & Scandinavia Sales Director shares MAGIX updates… The launch of the new MAGIX MIX series is well under way ensuring 2012 is a key year in the company's 17 year association with the UK. Whilst we continue to outsell all our competitors in the video, photo and music sectors throughout Europe, we are delighted that the Gem Sales team have targeted the MIX product range as the perfect solution to budding ﬁlmmakers and music makers. This summer there is the Queens Diamond Jubilee celebrations; not just in London but across the UK in every city, town and village; offering budding photographers huge opportunities with MAGIX software.

Supporting these products, our continual product reviews throughout the consumer press, the MAGIX PR machine ensures there are reviews each and every month creating demand. With so much turmoil in the gaming retail sector, it is refreshing that MAGIX stay ahead of the multimedia community targeting the traditional retail sector delivering quality and value whether it be traditionally boxed or downloadable software in an ever changing retail environment.

Tony Cornock Sales Director, MAGIX

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Hercules XPS 101

Multimedia 2.1 Speakers

SRP ÂŁ169 Webcode : 4768174 Simply sublime, in terms of both sound quality and design.

Say hello to Thrustmaster and Hercules Take a look at a snippet of what these brands have to offer. Thrustmaster Ferrari 458 Italia Racing Wheel What better way to sum up what Thrustmaster represents in a product than with the Ferrari 458 Italia Racing Wheel for Xbox 360® and PC! Although this paddock may not be the most comprehensive racing wheel and doesn’t feature dual carburettors or overhead camshafts, it does boast two ofﬁcial licenses from Ferrari and Xbox 360®, an exclusive worldwide collaboration. Value for money is high with such an iconic replica of the wheel equipping the Forza Motorsport 4 hero vehicle, the

ofﬁcial F458 Italia. Boasting both controls speciﬁc to the Xbox 360® and exceptional ergonomics, whilst still being compatible with PC, the racing wheel provides the ideal combination to enjoy a truly immersive gaming experience, a must-have for true motor racing enthusiasts! SRP £59.99 Webcode B005K1SI8A

Thrustmaster Hotas Warthog™ Joystick and Throttle A huge amount of development has gone in to this premium replica in order to create a joystick that meets the most speciﬁc and precise requirements of the experts. Development from both Thrustmaster’s teams and members of the simmer community has paid off, resulting in the Hotas Warthog™ joystick, inclusive of a dual throttle system and dual throttle control panel of the U.S. Air Force A-10C attack aircraft.

Weighing more than 6.5kg and using metal for the joystick, throttle handles and bases, this is a physically imposing piece of kit. Features are market-leading inclusive of 55 fully programmable action buttons and 2 four-direction hat switches, each with a built-in push button, something that has never been seen before. SRP £263.99 Webcode B00371R8P4

Hercules HD Twist Webcam High quality gaming accessories from Thrustmaster are not all that Guillemot has to offer. The sister brand, Hercules, has an array of PC peripherals that are sure to ﬂy off the shelves. The Hercules HD Twist Webcam is no exception from this as it is small, sleek, and comes in an array of colours to suit all preferences. A key feature is the ﬂexible base that can twist in any direction, helping the webcam become useful in a variety of ways. The HD Twist Webcam is great for video chats in

HD as well as recording videos for online posting. Overall, this is a webcam that has all the practicalities of any competitor on the market but includes a unique funky, fashionable edge. SRP £24.99 Webcode 4780734 x6

Hercules XPS 101 2.1 Speakers Hercules also offer an amazing range of speakers to go with their existing product line up. A beautifully sleek design coupled with a smart glossy piano-like ﬁnish both add to the fantastic aesthetic qualities possessed by the high-end Hercules XPS 101 Speaker System. These qualities are further enhanced as the line input connector is neatly stored underneath the subwoofer leaving the product looking clean. The fantastic speaker set includes satellite bottoms and a subwoofer crafted of metal alloy that are formed via a ‘Die Cast’ pressure injection method to optimise product

durability. The satellite stands being made of clear Plexiglas enhances the sound quality as well as giving a smart ﬁnish to the system. The XPS 101 comes with a great multifunctional remote control complete with line in and headphone connectors, a pulse switch and backlighting in addition to the customary features of volume, bass and treble control. SRP £169 Webcode 4768174

For more information on the Thrustmaster and Hercules range, contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or visit store.gem.co.uk

TO BUY ONLINE store.gem.co.uk

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PROMOTIONAL PRICING Available from 2nd until 13th April 2012

p1415_Kaspersky_Future 28/03/2012 15:44 Page 2

The Ultimate Solution for Home PC Protection Introducing Kaspersky PURE Total Security 2.0 Set for release this month, Kaspersky PURE Total Security 2.0 delivers total PC protection for your home, combining everything you need to ensure the security of your PCs, identity, passwords, photos and more. Plus, Kaspersky Pure 2.0 is even more easy to use, allowing you to easily manage the security of every PC in your home, across a home network from a single PC. Kaspersky Lab has been hard at work improving the successful first version of PURE, in order to defend against ever increasing levels of internet based malware. As a result of Kaspersky’s hard work comes an abundance of well-designed features designed to protect the home computer user on the internet. Key features now include Hybrid Protection which brings together the latest information about malware threats from the cloud with the security capabilities in Kaspersky Pure 2.0, providing unbeatable real-time protection. A two-way firewall and anti-spam feature will help keep hackers out and ensure no malware reaches your PC.

TO BUY ONLINE store.gem.co.uk

Maintenance of your entire home PC network has never been so easy. From one PC, you can easily view and maintain all security tasks, set and adjust parental control settings and monitor all online activities for all the PCs in your home.

It gives you the peace of mind of knowing your digital life is safe, your PC is in tip-top condition, your most valuable information is secure and your family is protected.

There are also several specialist identity protection features built in such as a password manager, a virtual keyboard for sensitive data, an anti-phishing defence, and the two-way firewall that was mentioned previously.

Kaspersky PURE Total Security 2.0 Release Date: April 2012

Kaspersky Pure 2.0 even has an online banking mode that opens a special walled-off environment when visiting financial websites to keep hackers out and ensure your financial information is always safe. All in all, Kaspersky PURE Total Security 2.0 gives you much more than just anti-virus software. It’s everything you need to protect all the most important assets in your digital life: your computer, your online accounts, your most valuable data… even your family.

SRP £59.99 Webcode: KL1907UBCFS

For more information on the Kaspersky range, contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or visit store.gem.co.uk

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

Booming doesn’t always mean big Create great sound with this handy space-saver from Logitech

Logitech Mini Boombox Black £69.99 Webcode: 984-000205 White £69.99 Webcode: 984-000212 Red £69.99 Webcode: 984-000211

Bluetooth brilliance from Logitech Discover the superb quality of these advanced Bluetooth-enabled devices

Logitech are a well known manufacturer of industry-leading products and the Logitech Wireless Boombox and the Logitech Mini Boombox are no exception, both including Bluetooth capabilities amongst other ﬁrst class features. Logitech Wireless Boombox The Logitech Wireless Boombox can truly be used where you want. You can place your speaker, up to 10 metres away from the device you are controlling it with. This can be any smartphone or tablet to open up the market to as many people as possible and the device can be used as a touch-screen player and remote control to stream stereo audio to the speaker. Listen for up to six hours straight on the rechargeable battery, and forget about costly and wasteful disposable batteries.

Eight custom-designed drivers separate sound frequencies, so you hear crisp, clear high notes, and rich, full mid-range and deep powerful bass. The stand out feature is the portability and ease that you can take all your entertainment with you. This compact speaker and power supply ﬁts easily into a suitcase or backpack so whatever you listen to, let it out to play. SRP £69.99 Webcode 984-000182

Logitech Mini Boombox Whatever you do with your smartphone or tablet, wherever you do it, do it out loud. This speaker pairs easily with smartphones, tablets or other Bluetooth® enabled devices.

Also, a speciﬁcally designed acoustic chamber delivers great sound with enhanced bass resulting in a small speaker that genuinely packs a punch.

Just like the full size Wireless Boombox, you can place the Mini Boombox within 10 metres of your mobile device however the smaller version wins hands down on battery power as you are able to listen for up to ten hours straight on the rechargeable, internal NiMH battery.

The backlit, touch panel controls make it easy to stay in command, night or day. The handy speakerphone with built-in mic gives you crystal-clear calls in the ofﬁce, in the car or in the garden. SRP £69.99 Webcode: Black 984-000205 White 984-000212 Red 984-000211

For more information on the Logitech range, contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or visit store.gem.co.uk

TO BUY ONLINE store.gem.co.uk

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

You wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t believe something so small can do so much

Good things come in small packages

Unlock the world of digital entertainment in just 3 easy steps, with no PC. Since launching in 2008 as the first product ever designed to stream movies from Netflix instantly on TV, Roku have delivered entertainment content to over 2.5 million streaming players and Gem is delighted to have been selected as the exclusive distributor launching these products in the UK. Barely larger than a coaster; Roku is a small device that streams movies, TV shows, music, and other entertainment to your TV via the Internet. Since Roku streams (rather than downloads) video, you get instant access to a huge library of entertainment without having to store any video files on your computer or hard drive. With over 150,000 movies and shows available from the biggest and best places, Roku instantly delivers that perfect title to match your mood from the best Netflix experience out there, featuring up to 1080p HD video and support for English subtitles, to TV catch up. With Roku you can access hundreds of free movies from Crackle and an ever-increasing abundance of channels. So much so that two months ago Roku had 40 UK channels and now has over 100.

With Roku in the room you’ll always ﬁnd the perfect entertainment selection whether it be music or television. The popular BBC iPlayer application is now available and gives you the opportunity to catch up on anything you have missed on your television screen rather than your laptop or desktop PC. More on demand channels are in development along with some exciting new channels that we’re unable to talk about! There is even a dedicated UFC channel, an increasingly popular sport in the UK, plus much more sport on the way. The Roku platform also delivers international free to air and subscription channels which are extremely popular with ex-pats in the UK. The ﬂagship Roku 2 XS features a Bluetooth remote with sensors for motion-based game play, as well as game-ready buttons to support furious button action. Hit games available include the Angry Birds series, PAC-MAN Championship Edition, Galaga, and Jeopardy with new games added all the time. Once you set up Roku, you do not need a PC to use it. Roku connects directly to your TV and your high-speed Internet service home using your wireless home network. It then lets you access the streaming entertainment channels that you sign up for right from your TV, using a handy remote. For more information on the Roku range, contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or visit store.gem.co.uk

Motion controller

2 Connect to Network

1 Plug it in

3 Enjoy

OR WI-FI

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ETHERNET® XS only

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Dive into a world of unlimited data transfer MAGIX is a prominent international provider of high-quality software, online facilities and digital content for multimedia communications. Since 1993, MAGIX has developed leading technologies for creating, editing, managing and presenting photos, graphics, videos and music. From just a 3-person company to the market leader for multimedia software with over 300 employees, fifteen years of market presence and over a thousand awards worldwide demonstrate the company’ s power of innovation. The first product launch from MAGIX was their MAGIX Music Maker. Under the leadership of Tilman Herberger and Titus Tost, who had success with their digital audio workstation Samplitude in 1989, MAGIX Music Maker, made Samplitude technology accessible to the private user, regaining unimagined fullness of sound from the home PC. With countless design options and CD-filling sound templates, MAGIX Music Maker was able to convince a large audience and soon became one of Europe's most successful music editing programs.

TO BUY ONLINE store.gem.co.uk

Fresh for 2012, MAGIX have launched the MX range, adding a whole new twist to the way we view and share our data. MX stands for Media X-Change and allows for quick and easy sharing between other compatible MAGIX software packages which already include MAGIX Music Maker, Movie Edit Pro as the leading 2 MX titles with many more MX compatible MAGIX releases due for launch later this year. The beneﬁts of having multiple software programs working together are endless. For example, Movie Edit Pro is ideal for the uploading of videos from a digital camera, adding music, titles and effects and burning the ﬁnished project to DVD is now easy.

businesses, allowing them to make their videos more adaptable and target specific audiences. Videos can be directly uploaded from MAGIX Video Pro X into the VideoCloud and are then automatically converted into any file format required. The MAGIX VideoCloud aids organisations and businesses to manage their video content in a simple, secure and efficient fashion. They can also be embedded into CI-configurable web players with adaptive steaming and play list functions for maximum flexibility. Users can also concentrate on specific regions or people with the help of geographic controls and rights management.

There are 3 versions of Movie Edit Pro to suit all users. If one thing is clear with the MX software, the accelerator pedal is ﬁrmly pressed to the ﬂoor — even on old and slower computers. Businesses are also catered for with the new MAGIX VideoCloud. Whereas the MAGIK MX is aimed more at consumers, the MAGIX VideoCloud is targeted at

For more information on the MAGIX range, contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or visit store.gem.co.uk

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

Powerful and Effortless Video Conversion Solution

SRP

£49.99 With just a few clicks, you can archive your videotape collection onto DVD or Blu-ray Disc. Alternatively create your own DVD or Blu-ray movies from your Camcorder, VCR, DVD player, and more! USB capture device, USB cable, RCA cable, SCART adaptor, Honestech VHS to DVD™ software CD, and Quick Start Guide included. For more information on all products available from honestech™ contact your Gem account manager on 01279 822822 or go online at store.gem.co.uk

Comprehensive protection for your home video collection Honestech VHS to DVD™ 5.0 Deluxe provides everything you need to easily convert your videos to digital formats. Videotapes can deteriorate over time. Your old videos will have colour bleed, white specks, and other distortions. Ensure that this doesn’t happen to your home video collection by creating digital copies with the best protection possible in honestech’s VHS to DVD™ 5.0 Deluxe. Honestech VHS to DVD™ 5.0 Deluxe offers you two modes, depending on what you need it for. Perfect for beginners, Easy Wizard Mode helps even the most technologically phobic get to grips with a straight forward method of transferring video to DVD or Blu-ray Disc. This can be done quickly and easily with the click of a button and, furthermore, this mode includes step-by-step pictorial instructions to guide you through the process. Although this mode may not offer the most customisable of services, it offers a solution for those of you who seek a no-thrills way of getting the job done. For the more computer literate users there is a much more creative option of the Advanced Mode. This has all the capabilities of the Easy Wizard Mode with added control as to what your finished project will look like. Advanced mode splits the process in to five easy steps; firstly you can capture video from an analog or HDV/DV camcorder, VCR/DVD player or more. Next comes the fun bit where you can edit unwanted scenes, choose from a wide selection of transition effects and include custom menus. Then you will have to make the choice of what format to display your file on as you can either convert video formats to

TO BUY ONLINE store.gem.co.uk

iPhone, iPad, PSP, or burn your finished project to DVDs and Blu-rays. If online is the desired destination for your video then utilise the direct upload to YouTube function to share with all your friends. There is also the Audio Recorder function that allows you to record directly from your library of cassettes, LP records, and video tapes to create WMA files or audio CDs. Full of up to date features and straightforward steps to follow, the VHS to DVD 5.0 Deluxe has everything you need to protect your most treasured files. Webcode EVDD5E SRP £49.99

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

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

PANDORAS TOWER NINTENDO | NINTENDO WII - £39.99 | 13th APRIL 2012

aunching on 13th April, the eagerly anticipated Wii exclusive role-playing game Pandora’s Tower has been announced by Nintendo.

Enjoy action-packed gameplay as you assume the role of Aeron, an Athosian soldier facing a deeply personal and emotionally charged mission. With his friend, Elena, bound to a grave fate that is causing her to mutate into a demonic abomination, you’ll feel the pressure of time and the rush of accomplishment as you take up the ﬁght to eradicate the spreading evil that has gripped her. To add to the drama of this melancholic and unconventional adventure, it is only by consuming the morsels of monster ﬂesh from the beasts Aeron has slain that the cruel curse binding Elena can be reversed. Pandora’s Tower features 13 tower-based environments, each one home to uninviting monsters who can be attacked in two ways – with a bladed weapon offering hard-hitting results up close, or with a magical chain possessing uses that extend far beyond overcoming opponents. Using both his sword and the magical Oraclos Chain, Aeron must defeat the creatures that lurk in the tower and harvest their meat to feed to Elena. As you progress, the weight of Elena’s predicament will spur you on, her physical appearance becoming more grotesque the longer it takes you to overcome each tower.

Minutes truly matter, depending on the level of her mutation, as you will have to judge when to go back and keep her topped up with demon carcass, or when to press on and nab the meatier monsters. The more often you return to help Elena will affect how the game’s ending will play out, with multiple versions possible. Pandora’s Tower is a novel adventure that requires devotion as you immerse yourself in to the role of Aeron. As the time seeps away, the fate of your friend grows all the more unthinkable so you best get yourself ready for a ﬁght that is guaranteed to get personal.

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REASONS TO STOCK

Eagerly anticipated Wii exclusive RPG 13 tower-based environments Striking, highly emotional storyline

Nintendo re-promotion With the Nintendo Wii U launch expected at E3 in June and seeing that the Nintendo Wii is in it’s twilight period, we, at The Future, thought it would be ﬁtting to check out some of the console’s recent key titles. Pandora’s Tower is one of the last of four Japanese RPG’s to hit the Wii in recent history, following Xenoblade Chronicles, The Last Story and Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword. All of the above past titles have been very successful for the Nintendo Wii and the following key reasons point to why:

REASONS TO STOCK

Xenoblade Chronicles

The Last Story

Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword

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Vast, stunning organic world Strategic real-time battling using special ‘Arts’ skills Huge variety of quests and storyline content

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Time-honoured RPG gameplay High customisation of items and characters Superb online deathmatch, team deathmatch and co-op modes

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Re-energised shaken up version of highly storied franchise Intuitive control enabled by Wii MotionPlus technology Massive, multi-layered world of forests, volcanoes and deserts

Wii Gamers re-promotion: Laydown Key TV Spots

media laydown 2nd April

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9th April

16th April

23rd April

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TOM CLANCY’S

GHOST RECON FUTURE SOLIDER UBISOFT | XBOX 360 & PS3 - £49.99 | PC - £39.99 | 25th MAY 2012

hugely anticipated new Ghost Recon title hits the shelves this month, Ubisoft's promising another must-have cutting edge military adventure. Featuring its trademark blend of cutting-edge technology, prototype high-tech weaponry, and state-of-the-art gameplay, Ghost Recon: Future Soldier provides gamers with an exciting glimpse into the technological future of strategic warfare. Following ﬁve years on from Ubisoft's 2007 award-winning GRAW 2, Ghost Recon: Future Soldier will beyond the core Ghost Recon franchise and deliver players a fresh gameplay experience, with "unparalleled levels of quality" for both the series newcomer and the grizzled veteran. Future Solider is set in a highly charged political climate of the near future, and players must help the Ghosts take on a deadly ultra-nationalist force that has taken control of Russia. With a determined enemy force looking to invade neighbouring nations, the fourman Ghost team must slip unseen behind enemy lines and perform their missions with maximum skill and efﬁciency.

The thrilling 14-mission campaign can be played either alone, or with up to three human players in stunning co-op. Teamplay is essential, with each player required to perform highly-coordinated takedowns and devastating large-scale strikes utilising multiple viewpoints. Online play, meanwhile, promises to be both "thrilling and innovative," with intel and teamwork right at the core as players take on the three classes available: Riﬂeman, Engineer and Scout. Ten multiplayer maps and four modes will ship with the game - including the classic Siege mode - and new exclusive game types. On top of that, owners of Microsoft's Kinect add-on beneﬁt from the new Gunsmith customisation mode. Using just their voice and hand movements, players will be able to choose from dozens of attachments and components, and intuitively replace triggers, barrels, stocks and more. The release of Ghost Recon Future Soldier marks a welcome return for a much-loved series. Get in touch with your Gem account manager today, and don't miss out on one of 2012's biggest titles.

The Ghosts comprise of a commando, a sniper, a reconnaissance expert, and an engineer, and each member provides a crucial specialist role, and come outﬁtted with the most comprehensive array of high-tech gear ever assembled. This character-focused campaign tasks players with leading Sergeant John Kozak and his veteran team through eight spectacular locales, from the heat and dust of Africa to the icy Arctic Circle. Getting the job done means being the ultimate “quiet professional”, and performing unique stealth kills and brutal close-combat moves using cutting-edge, authentic military tech. With more than 50 weapons available, the options are broad.

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REASONS TO STOCK

First full title in the series since 2007 Huge marketing presence Kinect support

p2627_Ghost Recon FS_digital_Future 28/03/2012 17:04 Page 2

[gunsmith mode is] an interesting perk that will no doubt help that version pick off a few players that were considering another platform, as it seemingly serves as a great living room demo of the Kinect's capabilities

gameS raDar

The gunplay itself has a sharp, efﬁcient feel that attests to ghost recon's origins as a simulation. Tactical riﬂes pick out headshots with minimal recoil, and there's a submachine gun in our pocket for close encounters

oxm

[It] may be faster and ﬂashier than its measured, belly-crawling predecessors, but its military hardware is so new and so different that there's no way a whole new clutch and concept of tactics won't spin out of it

eUrogamer

The cover system is amongst the best I’ve used, and is quite possibly as good as anything epic’s managed in gears of War. Using cover feels much more natural in this realistic environment

The SIxTh axIS

This is going for the more Call of Duty-style cinematic experience, with everything very stylised and slick

STraTegy Informer

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SUPER MARIO 3D LAND NINTENDO | NINTENDO 3DS - £39.99 | OUT NOW

vailable exclusively on the Nintendo 3DS, the BAFTA nominated Super Mario 3D Land perfectly combines retro and modernist Mario titles in one hugely original platform classic. Developed by the legends over at Nintendo EAD Tokyo, this critically acclaimed title provides gamers with everything they love about Mario games - and more. Super Mario 3D Land delivers environments in true 3D but without the need for special glasses. For the first time in the series' long history, this innovative technique allows players to intuitively pick out the depth and distance of the land as players run, jump and stomp on enemies throughout a succession of creatively designed levels. With its emphasis on the side-scrolling, level-based structure of the classic Marios, Super Mario 3D Land will feel instantly familiar to those used to the Super Mario Bros. series.

But with its movement and visual style from the Super Mario Galaxy classics on Wii, the new 3D style lends the game an alluring freshness that brings the series bang up to date without losing anything that made it so popular in the first place. Inspiration from past Mario titles runs throughout the game, with old abilities like the Tanooki tail (last seen in 1990's Super Mario Bros. 3) allowing Mario the ability to hover, glide and attack - but the fun doesn't end there. Awesome new moves like the Somersault attack and the dash move make the cut, while other power-up suits lend Mario spectacular new abilities in order to conquer fearsome challenges and enemies, such as the new Piranha Plant that spits ink at the camera. Meanwhile, the controls play a big part in the game, with fluid, responsive and accurate control from the Nintendo

3DS' Circle pad, and gyroscopic camera controls to allow players to view areas of the level in first person by physically moving their Nintendo 3DS console around. In short, Super Mario 3D Land is another bona-fide Nintendo classic, and a genuine showcase for the Nintendo 3DS. Make sure you've got enough to keep pace with the ongoing demand for this superb title.

• Universally acclaimed • Exclusive to the Nintendo 3DS • Combines the best of 2D and 3D Mario gameplay

MARIO KART 7 NINTENDO | NINTENDO 3DS - £39.99 | OUT NOW

the demands of the course. For instance, chunkier tyres may suit off-road courses, while smaller tyres will help karts accelerate quickly on paved courses.

Available exclusively on the Nintendo 3DS, Mario Kart 7 brings the beloved franchise into the third dimension, and takes full advantage of the advanced features of Nintendo's superb handheld gaming system.

In addition, gadgets such as the glider allows players to soar over short cuts and collect mid-air coins, while the game's all-new trick system allows racers to perform daring stunts in mid-air to earn boost.

As you'd expect from Nintendo's wonderfully playable title, players get to firstly pick their favourite Mushroom Kingdom character, and then take those rivalries out onto the track.

New weapons such as the Fire Flower and the Super Leaf make a grand entrance too, as well as a selection of old favourites.

tart your engines! It's time to race for the prize in the latest and greatest Mario Kart adventure.

All the iconic Nintendo favourites feature, and whether players choose to race as Mario, Donkey Kong, Peach or Yoshi, they can tweak the handling of their racing machines by selecting different frames and tyres to suit

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A host of other new features are also present, including underwater driving, gyroscopic controls, an optional first person mode, as well as full Mii support, which allows players to compete using their own creation.

Meanwhile, eight player multiplayer over wi-fi or the internet allows for intense competitive matches on a series of iconic tracks, including one set in Wuhu Island from Wii Sports, and the jungles of Donkey Kong Country Returns. Just like the previous Mario Kart titles, this is an evergreen title that never goes out of fashion. Call your Gem account manager now!

• Huge-selling franchise • Consistently popular • Biggest Nintendo 3DS title to date

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More than meets the eye

Enter the wonderful world of the Nintendo microsite The Nintendo microsite is accessible once you have signed up for a Gem online account. The site is easy to register to and comes with considerable benefits as a Gem customer, such as exclusive content, one-click asset downloads and online ordering, plus much more!

RHYTHM THIEF

& THE EMPEROR’S TREASURE NINTENDO | NINTENDO 3DS - £39.99 | 5th APRIL 2012

repare to tap out some rocking rhythms as Nintendo and SEGA launch the latest rhythm action-adventure, Rhythm Thief™ & The Emperor’s Treasure, exclusively for Nintendo 3DS™ on 5th April 2012.

persona of a virtuous thief. On his adventure he meets Marie, a violinist with a mysterious past, and clashes with Vergier, the superintendent at the Paris constabulary; all the while hoping to find his missing father.

This funky, up-tempo adventure is packed full of over 50 rhythm-based challenges set against the background of a 3D anime style Paris that is waiting to be explored. If you just can’t wait until the game launches, then make sure you check out the playable Nintendo 3DS Demo, available to download from the Nintendo eShop right now.

Help Raphael work his way through the rhythm-based challenges that he faces by utilising the fantastic range of features offered by the Nintendo 3DS. Tap the Touch Screen, push the buttons, work the stylus and control the gyro in time to the music. As you progress through the story, new areas of the map will become available and you are free to explore the beautifully rendered city, along with some of the most notable Parisian landmarks. Complete side quests, collect sound bites and visit Auban’s Shop to help progress along the Parisian Quest of the main story line.

In Rhythm Thief & The Emperor’s Treasure we meet Raphael, a young Parisian boy who leads a secret double life. He seems just like any other boy, living in the French capital with his trusty dog Fondue but he assumes the new

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You can also challenge your friends in a variety of multiplayer levels through either Local Wireless or Download Play. When you encounter another Rhythm Thief player via StreetPass™, a new character appears on the streets of each player’s map and they will only stay on your map if you can beat their high score in a rhythm game battle!

• Navigate the 3D Parisian streets • 50 rhythm-based challenges • Challenge friends in multiplayer levels

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DIRT SHOWDOWN CODEMASTERS | XBOX 360 & PS3 - £49.99 | 25th MAY 2012

rom the makers of the multi award-winning DiRT series comes DiRT Showdown.

Described as a "dive in and drive adrenaline rush of speed, style and destruction," this exciting new arcade driving title invites gamers to speed, trick and smash their way to glory. Set to test their skills behind the wheel to the limit in the 'Showdown' finals, players will go head-to-head with their fiercest rivals in front of a wild, festival-like atmosphere. Designed to appeal to a broad audience, DiRT Showdown boasts pick up and play controls and three flavours of action-sports driving: Racing, Demo Derby & Hoonigan events. In the game's expansive career mode, players embark on a globe-spanning adventure that takes place in iconic locations from Miami to San Francisco, London to Tokyo and many more. Boasting more than 50 race events across four championship challenges, gamers aim to not only win the race but the adulation of the crowd at "frenzied" unsanctioned race events.

Players will be challenged in a variety of race conditions, taking in sun, snow, and rain, and set both during the day and under the glare of the floodlights at night. Each course promises to provide an intense challenge, filled with ramps, multiple routes and obstacles, with an impressive, advanced damage modelling system that will push drivers to their limits in bone-crunching, fender-bending collisions. Elsewhere, Hoonigan events allow gamers to demonstrate their freestyle driving skills in huge free-roaming stunt parks. DiRT Showdown is said to be Codemasters' "most connected" game ever. Players can looks forward to not only split-screen multiplayer, but eight player online racing, as well as both on and off-line quick-fire party games. Meanwhile, YouTube integration allows players to upload their finest moments of chaos, while the new 'Showdown Challenges' lets them lay down the gauntlet to their mates in both on and off-line modes of play.

In terms of the vehicle line-up, DiRT Showdown provides an "exciting and eclectic" mix of licensed and bespoke cars, rendered spectacularly by Codies' benchmark-setting EGO Game Technology Platform. Players can look forward to the debut of Ken Block's all new Gymkhana 4 HFHV Ford Fiesta, alongside a varied selection of vehicles, including saloons, muscle cars, pick-up trucks, hearses and vans. Pushing destructive, high octane racing to spectacular limits, DiRT Showdown is the new standard for arcade driving delirium.

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REASONS TO STOCK

Intense, destructive arcade action Latest in the multi-million selling series Split-screen and online multiplayer

EXCLUSIVE

TO GEM

A happy celebration of motorsport's less serious side

EUROGAMER This is chaotic fun at its finest, filled with smokey burnouts, donuts and crushed metal

GAMESRADAR Visceral, anarchic and superb to behold. It certainly possesses the necessary tools to bring the DiRT franchise to a much more mainstream audience

CVG It's frickin' chaos...and we loved it!

X360 ACHIEVEMENTS Showdown really sucks you in. The ultimate hangover cure

TOP GEAR MAGAZINE You are the entertainer: a crowd-pleaser in a huge theatre of fans, jumps, pyrotechnics, and obstacles

OXM

DiRT series timelines 1998-2004

Four Colin McRae Rally titles establish Codemasters as a rally game leader across PS1, PS2, Xbox & PC

June 2007

Colin McRae DiRT (Xbox 360, PS3 & PC)

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Sept 2009

Colin McRae DiRT 2 (Xbox 360, PS3, PC, Wii, PSP, DS & Mac)

May 2011

DiRT 3 (Xbox 360, PS3 & PC)

May 2012

DiRT Showdown (Xbox 360, PS3 & PC)

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KINECT STAR WARS MICROSOFT | KINECT FOR XBOX 360 - £39.99 | 3rd APRIL 2012

he first motion-based Star Wars title hits the streets on April 3rd, exclusively on Xbox 360.

Aiming to truly bring the Star Wars universe to life like no other game before it, acclaimed developer Terminal Reality harnesses the controller-free power of Kinect in order to let fans physically experience being a Jedi Knight. Players will wield a Lightsaber, train to be a Jedi Master, soar in command of a space fighter, become a champion Podracer, wreak havoc as a rampaging Rancor, battle Dark Side opponents, as well as dance for Jabba the Hutt himself! Presented with stunning cinematic visuals, Kinect Star Wars is fully faithful to the look and feel of the movies,

with locations drawn from the original trilogy, and a timeline that begins shortly after The Phantom Menace. The game features four main modes in total. Firstly, 'Dark Side Rising' mode lets players wield a Lightsaber, master use of the Force in combat, engage in space battles, and pilot Speeder Bikes and Landspeeders. Duels of Fate mode, meanwhile, features one-on-one duels with the likes of Count Dooku, Sith, and Darth Vader, as well as Speederbike/Landspeeder racing levels, space combat sorties and Jedi combat. Elsewhere, Podracing mode challenges players to become the galaxy's champion across five planets, while Rancor Rampage mode tasks players with levels of intense destruction.

Galactic Dance Off mode, meanwhile, pits players against Jabba the Hutt and other favourite Star Wars characters to "tongue-in-cheek" remakes of popular songs with a Star Wars theme. With huge variety guaranteed, Kinect Star Wars looks set to deliver another superb motion gaming experience for all the family.

• Train to be a Jedi • Fight the mighty Darth Vadar • Relive iconic moments from the movies

Available:

3rd April 2012 www.xbox.com

*sensor sold separately

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