The Stinger Report

The Stinger Report

SNK Playmore Rings the Changes
A brand-new NeoGeo format launches this month, but the reversion to JAMMA seems more like a stop-gap than a long-term evolutionary strategy. Also: SNK has pulled the rug out from under previously-sanctioned Neo Geo IP developers in Korea. This move signals ongoing change in global distribution and may undermine the strength of certain SNK counterfeiting charges in the USA.

While NeoGeo Competitors Attack!
The Neo-Geo MVS is clearly due for replacement in the low-cost, video "system-library" niche. Contenders for the crown include Sega (with Naomi), Sammy (ATOMISWAVE), a surprise upstart from Taiwan, and Eolith (GHOST architecture). Sammy clearly expects to move virtually unopposed into this hole in the market. But – in a STINGER exclusive – we also report how International Game Systems (a Taiwan-based manufacturer) may cut heavily into Sammy's ATOMISWAVE sales. In fact, IGS is going head to head with Sammy, matching them game for game in key genres. TSR provides lists of planned new titles for the Sammy (such as ‘Guilt Gear DX'), IGS, and Eolith systems.

New ROM's for Old - The UltraCade Way!
The Stinger REPORT has gained exclusive information on the application of 'Salvaged' ROM chips being repackaged for application in the UltraCade Multi-Game arcade system. The new HyperWare takes the time to lay to rest grapevine rumours of impending legal action while explaining the path that has led to the reinvigoration of old hardware.

Simulator Problems for Disney
Walt Disney World is leading up to the official launch of their latest attraction, ‘Mission Space.' During the current soft-opening phase, WDW staff have run into a possible problem: a small number of riders may be experiencing Post-Ride-Nausea (PRN). This is somewhat normal for today's "extreme rides," and many younger riders actually enjoy "pushing the envelope." But WDW's broader customer demographic has forced the park to ask: Just how much information should be disclosed to guests, regarding the precise nature of motion simulation that a given ride will subject them to?

The Stinger Report (in brief) is provided to Highwaygames by Kevin Williams, the publisher of "The Stinger Report". To read the full articles and information, please visit www.thestingerreport.com