EA releases games, PCs together

EA is planning to release pre-configured PCs alongside its big name video game launches in an attempt to bring high-end PC gaming to consumers at a lower price, says Games Dog.

Many off-the-shelf gaming PCs can reach into four figure prices, but EA's range is predicted to cost between $600 and $800.

Although many hard-core gamers will probably opt to build their own PC in preparation for a new game release, EA hopes to target new gamers, perhaps confused by system specs, or those who just want to pick a PC off-the-shelf that is guaranteed to run the latest game.

Hypernia Hosting, the provider of hosting services and solutions for the interactive entertainment industry, is now a global online partner to US-based game publisher, Thriller Publishing, due to introduce its massively multiplayer online games (MMOG) based on science fiction and military themed stories from best-selling authors, says MCV.

Based in Austin, Texas, Thriller Publishing announced its plan earlier this year to develop and publish games with military and espionage-themed serial storylines using wholly-owned content developed by published best-selling authors.

Thriller has licensed novels from multiple authors, who are widely recognised and well regarded in their genres. These authors will create and develop popular new characters and storylines for MMO Games, game sequels, entire game series, movies, mobile games, and more.

While there have been past attempts to resolve the issue of violence in console games the issue has reared its head again and prompted more action from the UK government, says I.T. Vibe.

UK Culture minister Margaret Hodge has vowed to introduce a new regulatory framework which will incorporate features of the European ratings system and the UK film classification system.

This has long been a bone of contention for many in the regulatory sector and the gaming industry with levels of violence and disturbing features on the increase. While many games are already flagged as for adults only, the government is looking to take away any form of self regulation and introduce a more rigid framework.