Sega Amusements Europe Ltd. will be holding court in its usual dominant position at the centre of the ATEI hall this year with two stands. From what Sega has indicated so far it promises to be something of a spectacle with various themes running through the product range, not to mention a few surprises. Firstly, you will be hard pressed to miss the latest version of one the arcade industries classic titles, House of the Dead, in its fourth incarnation. Taking front of stage in three cabinet formats, one of which will be a premier showing, the game represents a major step forward in technology. It boasts the first Digital monitor (DLP) that provides vision from all angles and no screen burn, and comes in sizes up to a massive 62" – Sega says this is the way forward as "people have greater expectations from TVs and screens at home and in other leisure environments, and arcades can not be left behind using old fashioned PTVs."
The new software platform behind the game, Lindbergh, is also an industry first in its sheer output capability. The combination of this and the screen Sega reports, "produces motion quality sound and graphics." The effect of the Lindbergh platform will also be evident in Virtua Tennis 3 the latest version of a strong proven arcade piece that will receive its first showing outside Japan at the ATEI. The game will feature a host of world professional tennis stars, including three times Wimbledon champ Roger Federer, and recognisable tennis venues from around the world. The game will also benefit from the smart card concept first made popular in Ghost Squad and a new Lindbergh Cabinet.
Continuing with the sporting theme and to maximise of the 'World Cup' effect Sega will be showing two football titles. WCCF European Clubs 2004 – 2005 the much-hyped game that was officially launched at last October's Preview has got of to a great start. The company reports that 36 units were shipped prior to Christmas. The second title, which will flourish this year amidst World Cup fever, is Virtua Striker 4 – 2006 World Cup edition.
Sega's venture into the pusher market was tested at the Preview last year when it showed its 'all singing all dancing' six-player Disco Dream. Then it was shown to gain operator reaction and feedback. The result is a product that has been modified to suit European legalities and operator requests. The game features a massive glitter ball 'Cash Splash' feature, dancing Divas and a multitude of plasma screens and features.
Further diversification will be also strengthened with the desire to build into the kids market with a host of video vending games. Subject to finer details Sega will be launching a licensable Dinosaur game in the format of 'Dinosaurking.' It will be shown along with another title, "Love & Berry" that is aimed at girls and will be previewed at ATEI.
Sega are also keeping under wraps a very secretive project that will see its world premier at the ATEI. To date no information is available from Sega and scouring the usual game web sites and test locations in Tokyo reveal nothing. Head of Research and Development, Patrick Michael who is based at Sega Surrey offices would only go as far as to say, "The project is a first for Sega Amusements Europe and Sega full stop. We are all very excited about not only this but what it may also lead to in the future. We are literally saying nothing at all at this stage – we like to keep some surprises!"
|
Copyright © 1999 - 2025, Highwaygames. All Rights Reserved. Use of this website constitutes acceptance of the highwaygames.com User Agreement and Privacy Policy.