The media release mentions nothing of a price, but also does not contain the word free, and people who write these things up generally love to include that particular word when applicable, so I guess we'll see how that goes. All I know is money is no object as far as a crossbow is concerned. Screens of the new content and a run down of what's included, after the jump.

UBISOFT ANNOUNCES NEW DOWNLOADABLE CONTENT AVAILABLE BEFORE THE END OF NOVEMBER FOR FAR CRY® 2 – THE FORTUNE'S PACK BRINGS YOU EVEN MORE TOOLS OF MAYHEM

London, UK – 21 November 2008 – Today Ubisoft announced it will release exciting new downloadable content (DLC) for Far Cry® 2. The Fortune’s Pack DLC will bring new vehicles and new weapons to both the single-player game and the multiplayer game, giving gamers even more diverse means of destruction. Be the silent stalker armed with your silent shotgun or jump on your new quad and blast through the dunes of Africa. The Fortune’s Pack DLC for Far Cry 2 will be available for download from Xbox LIVE® Marketplace for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and from PlayStation®Network.

The Fortune’s Pack DLC for Far Cry 2 includes:

Single-Player Mode
Three brand-new weapons
- Silenced shotgun
- Sawed-off shotgun
- Crossbow

Two new vehicles
- Unimog
- Quad

Multiplayer Mode
- Four new exciting maps
1. Cheap Labor
2. Last Resort
3. Lake Smear
4. Fort Fury
- New single-player weapons and vehicles also available in multiplayer

Starting in on December 5, Lips will start getting holiday music by a number of artists including Bing Crosby, Elvis Presley and Gene Autry. The songs all start at 160 Microsoft Points a pop, or about $2.

Here’s the breakdown of this and next weeks songs:

November 21
Adele – Chasing Pavements
Estelle – No Substitute Love
Jason Mraz – The Remedy (I Won’t Worry)
Coldplay – Violet Hill

November 28
Supertramp – Give a Little Bit
Smash Mouth – All Star
Vanessa Carlton – A Thousand Miles

Coming the week of November 25th (maybe):

• "Jesus Christ Pose" by Soundgarden
• "Pretty Noose" by Soundgarden
• "Laid To Rest" by Lamb of God

Yngwie Malmsteen Pack
• "Red Devil"
• "Damnation Game"
• "Caprici Di Diablo"

The Killers Pack
• "Spaceman"
• "Mr. Brightside"
• "Smile Like You Mean It "

Yes, we already knew about those tracks from The Killers, but the rest? New!

DLC Week of Nov.25 Soundgarden, Yngwie Malmsteen and more! [ScoreHero - thanks, everybody!]

Rockstar Games Announces its First Episode of Downloadable Content for Grand Theft Auto IV: The Lost and Damned

New York, NY – November 20, 2008 – Rockstar Games, a publishing label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (NASDAQ: TTWO), is proud to announce that the eagerly anticipated first episode of downloadable content, Grand Theft Auto IV: The Lost and Damned, will be coming to the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system via Xbox LIVE® online entertainment network. Available exclusively on Xbox LIVE worldwide on February 17, 2009, The Lost and Damned will feature all new content and is the first of two episodes announced for Grand Theft Auto IV on Xbox 360.

“Making these episodes has enabled us to expand the narrative and the experience of interacting with a game world in really innovative ways,” said Sam Houser, Founder of Rockstar Games. “We hope fans of the game enjoy the new way of experiencing life in Liberty City contained in this first episode.”

Since its launch in April, Grand Theft Auto IV has garnered unprecedented praise and acclaim worldwide. Developed by series creator Rockstar North and set in Liberty City, The Lost and Damned features a new main character and plot that intersects with the storyline of Grand Theft Auto IV; new missions that offer an entirely fresh way to explore Liberty City with new multiplayer modes, weapons and vehicles; and a diverse soundtrack with additional music – all with the incredible production values that are the trademarks of Grand Theft Auto.

Grand Theft Auto IV: The Lost and Damned requires players to have the full version of Grand Theft Auto IV for Xbox 360 and Xbox LIVE membership to download. Further details, including pricing, will be announced soon. For more information, please visit www.rockstargames.com/IV.

Speaking in a Gamercyde video interview, PoP producer Ben Mattes said that they didn't want to mess around with extra costumes or pimped weapons. If DLC hype is worth doing, it is surely worth overdoing.

"If we're going to do it, it's going to be a new story, a new experience, maybe a prequel, maybe a sequel - we're going to do something that really offers a lot of value for the player. In terms of when: sometime next year - I'm not sure of exactly when, it's all still in discussion."

Prince of Persia[Gamercyde via Eurogamer]

Rock Band 2 will feature the band's signature hit "Mr. Brightside," alongside "Smile Like You Mean It" and "Spaceman." (GHWT had "Human" and "Losing Touch" instead.) That information comes from MTV and was reported by Wired.com yesterday.

Guitar Hero, Rock Band Add Killers Tracks [Wired.com, thanks Stephen Z.]

Looks like today's the day for Fable II owners to finally get that promised DLC. Microsoft has begun sending out codes and mea culpas via email. We'd advise checking your inbox as dozens of Fable II loving Kotaku readers have already done. And, no, we don't think this is the "big news" Lionhead has promised. Thanks a bunch for the tips, guys and gals!

But on the other hand - OMG CALIFORNIA UBER ALLES! Playing three of the finest hardcore punk tracks of the Reagan era in the comfort of your living room may cause high levels of cognitive dissonance, but who knows? Maybe Biafra and co. will tickle some political consciences through the medium of rhythm-based multiplayer gaming.

The 3 tracks on offer for 440 MS points (or 160 a pop) are California Uber Alles, Police Truck and Holiday in Cambodia. Check after the jump for next week's full Rock Band DLC list.

The following tracks will be released on Xbox Live on November 18th and via PlayStation Store on November 20th.

Dead Kennedys 3 Pack - 440 Microsoft Points ($5.50)
o "California Uber Alles" - 160 Points ($2)
o "Holiday In Cambodia" - 160 Points ($2)
o "Police Truck" - 160 Points ($2)
Mission Of Burma 3 Pack - 440 Microsoft Points ($5.50)
o "Mica" - 160 Points ($2)
o "That's How I Escaped My Certain Fate" - 160 Points ($2)
o "That's When I Reach For My Revolver" - 160 Points ($2)
Century Media Girls of Metal 3 Pack - 440 Microsoft Points ($5.50)
o In This Moment - "Forever" - 160 Points ($2)
o Lacuna Coil - "Closer" - 160 Points ($2)
o Lacuna Coil - "Swamped" - 160 Points ($2)
Individual Tracks
o Crooked X - "Gone" - 80 Points ($1)

Rock Band DLC: Mission of Burma Takes Holiday in Cambodia [Shacknews]

The tiny cars will be released next year as part of Criterion's continuing efforts to work themselves to death. Not sure if they'll be drivable, but then what else would you do with them? Until they announce the "Putting Things Into Your Orifices" pack, it's probably safe to assume.

Criterion Announces Burnout Paradise Toy Cars [Criterion Blog]

The pack will run you 440 points via Xbox Live or $5.49 on the PlayStation 3. All three songs will also be available as solo downloads for 160 MS Points, $1.99 PS3, and on the Nintendo Wii for 200 points a pop. Don't complain to me about the cost. It's just the price I pay. Destiny is calling me, so open up your eager eyes to check out the press release after the jump.

THE KILLERS TO DEBUT NEW MUSIC AS DOWNLOADABLE CONTENT FOR GUITAR HERO® WORLD TOUR

Three Song Track Pack Available Day and Date with The Killers’ New Album, Day & Age

SANTA MONICA, CA – November 14, 2008 – After making their entry in a Guitar Hero® set list with “When You Were Young” on Guitar Hero® III: Legends of Rock, multi-platinum alternative rockers The Killers are playing a downloadable encore in Activision Publishing, Inc.’s (Nasdaq: ATVI) Guitar Hero® World Tour, the company announced today. To celebrate the release of the band’s third album, Day & Age, The Killers downloadable content will be available simultaneously with the album’s release on November 25th and will feature two singles off Day & Age: “Human” and “Losing Touch.” Rounding out the Track Pack and adding to the killer experience is the GRAMMY® nominated smash hit “Mr. Brightside” from the band’s debut album Hot Fuss.

The Killers Track Pack will be available on Xbox LIVE® Marketplace for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft for 440 Microsoft Points and on the PLAYSTATION®Store for the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system for $5.49. In addition, ”Human,” “Losing Touch” and “Mr. Brightside” will be released as single downloadable songs for Xbox 360 for 160 Microsoft Points, PLAYSTATION 3 system for $1.99 and Nintendo® Wi-Fi Connection for Wii™ for 200 Wii Points.

Guitar Hero World Tour transforms music gaming by expanding Guitar Hero’s signature guitar gameplay into a cooperative band experience that combines the most advanced wireless controllers with new revolutionary online* and offline gameplay modes including Band Career and 8-player “Battle of the Bands,” which allows two full bands to compete head-to-head online. The game features a slick newly redesigned guitar controller, drum kit controller and a wired microphone, as well as an innovative Music Studio music creator that lets players compose, record, edit and share their own rock ‘n’ roll anthems. Music creators are also able to share their recordings with their friends online through GHTunesSM where other gamers can download and play an endless supply of unique creations.

Guitar Hero World Tour is now available for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system, the Wii home video game system from Nintendo and the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system. The game is rated “T” for Teen by the ESRB. For more information on Guitar Hero World Tour, please visit worldtour.guitarhero.com.

So, that PS3 Exclusive DLC? Well, we have no idea - maybe DICE have cooked up an exclusive pair or downloadable trousers or something - but the main DLC? A DICE spokesperson told GameCyte, “It’s downloadable content for both platforms.”

The DLC will join the PC port, previously rumoured to have been delayed until 2009, has been confirmed for release in January of next year.

Update: Mirror’s Edge PC Dated, Multiplatform DLC Confirmed [GameCyte]

Japan's first "premium" Sackboy outfit, Toro the kitty cat from the Japan-only Mainichi Issho, likely won't make it to these shores. And we're OK with that. We're still figuring out how to come to terms with the Ico and Yorda costumes we'll unquestionably buy, should Media Molecule whip 'em up.

リトルビッグプラネット [PlayStation Japan via PS3Fanboy]

“I’ve talked to some developers who are saying ‘If you want to fight the final boss you go online and pay USD 20, but if you bought the retail version you got it for free’. We don’t make any money when someone rents it, and we don’t make any money when someone buys it used - way more than twice as many people played Gears than bought it.”

That would reduce everything but a retail sale to a demo, in my view. This doesn't sound like Capps specifically advocating such a bastard-ass move. But these two sides — developers and retailer/resellers — need to arrive at some sort of truce or else the only ones who'll get screwed are the gamers.

I can't imagine the Amazon and Metacritic reviews for such a game. It would make the Spore DRM backlash look like a polite disagreement. Seriously, games industry, you want to start spewing douchewater like the RIAA, go for it. They can tell you what it's done for their sales.

Capps: We Really Need to Make Strides Against the Secondhand Market [Videogaming247, via Bingegamer]

The new packs will be available on the 13th for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation Store in Europe, with the rest of the world getting the PS3 versions on the 20th. Hit the jump for a full list of all nine packs, plus two console-specific packs per system.

EA Announces Dead Space Premium Upgrade Packs
Equip Yourself With All New Weapons and Suits to Survive the Horror

REDWOOD CITY, Calif.—(BUSINESS WIRE)—Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ:ERTS) announced today that the critically acclaimed Dead Space™ will be releasing premium upgrade packs* to provide the game hero, Isaac Clarke, an everyday systems engineer, with the ultimate Necromorph-dismembering equipment in his fight for survival aboard the space-traveling USG Ishimura. Players can experience the glory of strategic dismemberment November 13 on Xbox LIVE® Marketplace worldwide and the PLAYSTATION®Store** in Europe. These premium upgrade packs will be available on the PLAYSTATION Store worldwide November 20.

Winner of over 23 critic awards and boasting a score of 89 on Metacritic.com, Dead Space delivers the ultimate in psychological thrills and gruesome action. It is a bold and often-bloody sci-fi survival horror game set 500 years in the future. The innovative combat in the game calls for intense gore and character dismemberment that can be experienced even further with these premium upgrade packs.

The complete list of upgrade packs include:

—
Astronaut Pack: Download the Astronaut Suit and Weapon Skin Pack, featuring an amazing Astronaut Suit and new skins for the Plasma Cutter, Pulse Rifle, and Ripper!
— $3.00 / 240 MS points

— Big Gun Pack: Download the Steam Punk Force Gun, the ultimate in Necromorph-killing destruction.
— $1.00 / 80 MS points

— Heavy Damage Pack: Download the Heavy Damage Weapon pack featuring a cool new look and massive firepower for the Plasma Cutter, Contact Beam, Pulse Rifle, and Ripper.
— $3.00 / 240 MS points

— Hot Rod Pack: Download the Hot Rod Weapon Skin Pack, featuring awesome flame graphics for the Flamethrower and Pulse Rifle.
— $1.00 / 80 MS points

— Military Pack: Download the Military Weapon Pack for a new look and enhanced power for all 7 Dead Space weapons.
— $4.00 / 320 MS points

— Scorpion Pack: Download the Scorpion Pack featuring an upgraded Level 5 Suit and powered up Plasma Cutter, Line Gun, and Force Gun, all decorated in an awesome red Scorpion Skin.
— $4.00 / 320 MS points

— Scorpion Weapon Pack: Download the Scorpion Weapon Pack featuring a faster death-dealing Plasma Cutter, Line Gun, and Force Gun in awesome red skins.
— $2.25 / 180 MS points

— Speed Kills Pack: Download the Speed Kills Weapon Pack! Includes faster-firing Force Gun, Line Gun, and Plasma Cutter.
— $2.25 / 180 MS points

— Tank Pack: Download the Tank Pack featuring an upgraded Level 5 Suit and powered up Flamethrower, Force Gun, and Line Gun, all covered in Unitology script.
— $4.00 / 320 MS points

PLAYSTATION®3 Exclusive Packs:

— Obsidian Weapon Skin Pack: Download the exclusive Obsidian Weapon Skin Pack now, available only for the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system. Includes weapon skins in jet-black PLAYSTATION 3 colors for the Line Gun, Plasma Cutter, and Pulse Rifle.

— $1.50

— Obsidian Pack: Download the exclusive Obsidian Suit and Weapon Skin Pack now, available only for the PLAYSTATION®3! Includes an upgraded Level 5 suit, and weapon skins for the Line Gun, Plasma Cutter, and Pulse Rifle, all in jet-black PLAYSTATION®3 colors.

— $3.00

Xbox 360®-Exclusive Packs:

— Elite Weapon Skin Pack: Download the exclusive Elite Weapon Skin Pack now, available only for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system! Includes weapon skins in Xbox 360 colors for the Line Gun, Plasma Cutter, and Pulse Rifle.

— 120 MS points

— Elite Pack: Download the exclusive Elite Suit and Weapon Skin Pack now, available only for the Xbox 360! Includes an upgraded Level 5 suit, and weapon skins for the Line Gun, Plasma Cutter, and Pulse Rifle in Xbox 360 colors.
— 240 MS points

Developed at EA Redwood Shores, Dead Space is rated M for Mature with descriptors of Blood and Gore, Intense Violence and Strong Language by the ESRB and 18+ for PEGI. Dead Space is now available for MSRP $59.99 on the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system and PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system and MSRP $49.99 for the PC. For more information about the game, go to the website at http://www.deadspacegame.com or http://info.ea.com.

* Requires Dead Space for the Xbox 360 or PLAYSTATION 3 to play.

** INTERNET CONNECTION required. Xbox LIVE gold or silver membership OR PLAYSTATION®Network account required.

“Our customers have been begging us to create console games,” Digital Praise CEO Tom Bean told MTV Multiplayer, "We’d like to be able to go there but we’ll see.”

The company has been putting a lot of time and energy into expansion packs for the game - including some Stryper tracks out in 2009 - but Bean indicated that a move to multi-instrumental gameplay was being considered.

“That’s definitely been part of our discussions," he said, "[...] if it’s compelling then we’ll consider our next steps in that direction.”

Whatever happens with Digital Praise's plans, there is still no credible Christian or Religious DLC for the two main music franchises. Surely Mad Catz could bang out a church organ or a Tibetan Buddhist singing bowl controller for Rock Band? Talk about missed opportunities...

Christian ‘Guitar Hero’ Game Maker Says Demand Is High, Hints At Full Band Game [MTV Multiplayer]

Sweet, but that's not all. Hit the jump to see what happens when you hit the L3 button.

That's right. This motherf***er hovers.

The Jansen 88 Special is the first of four Legendary Cars being introduced to the series as next year, along with the Cavalry Bootlegger, Manhattan Spirit and the GT Nighthawk. Each car will be available for purchase separately, or as part of a discounted pack of four.

Generally I am not a big fan of purchasing extra vehicles, but when said extra vehicle can possibly break the space time continuum I take exception.

Criterion Announces Burnout Paradise Legendary Cars [Criterion Blog]

1. "Doll"
2. "Monkey Wrench"
3. "Hey, Johnny Park!"
4. "My Poor Brain”
5. "Wind Up"
6. "Up in Arms"
7. "My Hero"
8. "See You”
9. "Enough Space"
10. "February Stars”
11. "Walking After You”
12. “New Way Home”

The full album will be priced at $19.99 or 1600 Microsoft Points depending on your platform, with individual tracks priced at $1.99 or 160 Microsoft Points. All tracks are, of course, masters. Yay!

Harmonix community honcho Sean Baptiste updates us on the status of the Rock Band freebies, writing on the game's official forums "We have hit an unexpected delay with getting the content online with Microsoft and are working diligently with them to get that resolved."

"We have suspended sending out the token codes until the content becomes available," Baptiste continues, explaining that the Harmonixers are "working our butts off" to get them online. Expect more info over the next day for Xbox 360 types, with news on the PlayStation 3 versions to come later.

"The codes for the 20 free DLC on 360 will begin to go out this evening for redemption," he writes on the official Rock Band forums "Due to the volume of emails being sent, these will roll out over a 24 hour period." Baptiste further clarifies that codes for owners of the PlayStation 3 version "will be coming later in the week." Patience. They should really gets Guns 'n' Roses' "Patience." That'd be great.

20 Free DLC Xbox Announcement [Rock Band Forums]

Seems to me that they're really adding value to the game here, introducing new gameplay concepts to an already proven game. Whether or not they're adding $9.99 worth of value I will leave up to the consumer.

2K Games Announces Pricing and Release Date for BioShock® PLAYSTATION®3 System Add-On Game Content

Exclusive Add-On Game Content available November 20 worldwide on PlayStation®Network

New York, NY – November 3, 2008 – 2K Games, a publishing label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (NASDAQ: TTWO), announced today that the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system exclusive Add-On Game Content for BioShock® will be available for download worldwide on November 20 from the PlayStation®Network. Consisting of three unique Challenge Rooms that take place outside of the main storyline, the BioShock Add-On Game Content will be available for $9.99 in North America. BioShock for the PLAYSTATION 3 system was recently released to critical acclaim from critics across the industry, earning perfect scores from PlayStation: The Official Magazine and GamePro Magazine, as well as the Editor’s Choice Award from IGN.com.

Each of the three Challenge Room environments was designed specifically for the PLAYSTATION 3 system release and feature new locations, objectives and artwork not seen anywhere else in the game. Additionally, each of the new Challenge Rooms offers new Trophies that can be earned through smart thinking and resourceful playing.

The included rooms are:

A Shocking Turn of Events – A Little Sister is trapped atop a Ferris wheel in an undisclosed location in Rapture. Using only the tools and environment around them, players must use their wits to create electricity to power the Ferris wheel and bring the Little Sister to safety.

The I in Team – Using limited resources, and an even more limited arsenal, players must negotiate traps and find a way to defeat a Big Daddy using their wits instead of raw firepower.

Worlds of Hurt – Step up and take on the most grueling challenge offered in the world of Rapture. Players must battle through eight rooms of Big Daddies, Splicers and the worst that Rapture has to offer. Accumulate Adam, build an arsenal of Plasmids, Tonics and Weaponry, and fight through to rescue the Little Sister.

Developed by 2K Boston, 2K Australia, 2K Marin and Digital Extremes, BioShock for the PLAYSTATION 3 system contains all-new content that augments and extends the experience in exciting ways. BioShock for PLAYSTATION 3 system contains new features such as the inclusion of the Survivor difficulty mode, Trophy support and the addition of all-new Add-On Game Content that will be available for download on November 20. A free demo that allows gamers to play through the first portion of BioShock is currently available for download from the PlayStation Network.

BioShock is a narrative-driven action experience that allows players to do the impossible as they journey through an amazing, immersive and terrifying world. Caught between powerful forces and hunted down by genetically mutated citizens, the player will come to grips with the mysterious and fascinating world of Rapture, a distinct Art Deco underwater utopia gone mad. BioShock not only challenges players’ capacity to adapt and survive, but brings to question their values and relationships with the inhabitants of Rapture. With smart and adaptive AI, no encounter ever plays out the same way twice, while numerous customization options provide gamers with an experience that adapts to their playing style.

BioShock for the PLAYSTATION 3 system is available now worldwide and is rated M for Mature by the ESRB. Available now on the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and Games for Windows®, BioShock was the recipient of more than 50 Game of the Year awards from prestigious outlets such as the Associated Press and Game Informer Magazine.

• The Presidents of the United States of America “Dune Buggy” ($1.99/160 MSP)
• The Presidents of the United States of America “Feather Pluckn’” ($1.99/160 MSP)
• The Presidents of the United States of America “Ladybug” ($1.99/160 MSP)
• Fall Out Boy “I Don’t Care” ($0.99/80 MSP)
• Hinder “Use Me” ($0.99/80 MSP)

The Presidents of the United States of America 3-pack can be had for $5.49 (440 Microsoft Points) if you call yourself a fan. The Fall Out Boy and Hinder tracks are priced on the low end for a limited time only, so snap them up within the month.

Also hitting November 4th are the twenty free downloadable tracks promised by Harmonix, a batch of largely unknown bands that will round out your stock set of Rock Band 2 tunes to over one hundred.

Your first two Sackboy costumes will be the fashionably late Halloween Mask and Launch Spacesuit pictured above. Both will be free and reportedly disappear from the PlayStation Store on Nov. 19. Further down the line, expect Sackboy outfits to run you 99 cents American. Also expect to see "premium" costumes at twice the price. The Old Snake and Sephiroth Sackboys, for example, fall under the "premium" category. Surprised?

Available 11/6: Official LittleBigPlanet DLC on the PlayStation Store [PlayStation.blog]

We are incredibly sorry and apologize to anyone frustrated by this process. We have been focused on ensuring that our North American LCE customers impacted by this retail issue are quickly taken care of and receive their codes in a timely manner. It was the quickest solution we could implement to address the issue. Microsoft will be monitoring submissions from users looking to abuse the system but I can’t discuss what those measures specific to this solution are.

So everyone who is emailing with tips regarding free limited edition DLC for everyone might want to rethink that idea. Not sure what measures they could possibly take, but the warning certainly sounds ominous, doesn't it? Hit the jump for Sam's full response to our inquiry.

Microsoft’s first concern is to get content into the hands of LCE customers in North America who did not receive a code in their retail package. There will be people that try to game the system - we are tracking requests and gamertags associated. We are focused on ensuring that our North American LCE customers impacted by this retail issue are quickly taken care of and receive their codes in a timely manner.

We are incredibly sorry and apologize to anyone frustrated by this process. We have been focused on ensuring that our North American LCE customers impacted by this retail issue are quickly taken care of and receive their codes in a timely manner. It was the quickest solution we could implement to address the issue. Microsoft will be monitoring submissions from users looking to abuse the system but I can’t discuss what those measures specific to this solution are.

The game's director, Nigel Kershaw, tells CVG that the team has new goodies expected to digitally ship via the PlayStation Store "in the coming months," that "major packs" will hit the new Motorstorm sometime after Christmas. So hurry up and wait.

MotorStorm 2: Weekly DLC planned, some free [CVG]

Siouxsie & the Banshees 3-Pack ($5.49/440 MSP)

• Siouxsie & the Banshees “Hong Kong Garden” ($1.99/160 MSP)
• Siouxsie & the Banshees “Kiss Them For Me” ($1.99/160 MSP)
• Siouxsie & the Banshees “The Killing Jar” ($1.99/160 MSP)

• Blink-182 “Dammit” ($1.99/160 MSP)
• Psychedelic Furs “Pretty in Pink” ($1.99/160 MSP)
• Silversun Pickups “Melatonin” ($1.99/160 MSP)
• Silversun Pickups “Well Thought Out Twinkles” ($1.99/160 MSP)

With Harmonix doing the same thing with their in-house bands in Rock Band, it seems like the way to get ahead in the music business these days is to learn how to program. Hit the jump for the helpful press release, complete with links to each band's MySpace.

NEVERSOFT MUSICIANS TO OFFER TWO TRACKS FOR FREE DOWNLOAD IN GUITAR HERO WORLD TOUR

Featuring many talented artists, spanning genres that cross the musical spectrum, two distinct Neversoft bands deliver “Anything” and “Electro Rock” to fans of Guitar Hero World Tour

After an increase in notoriety with the appearance of “Impulse” in Guitar Hero® III: Legends of Rock and with fans calling them “one of the biggest musical breaths of fresh air” and “a monument to human talent and determination,” An Endless Sporadic returns to the Guitar Hero® stage with their new single, “Anything.” Featuring Andy Gentile, Neversoft Designer, on Drums and Zach Kamins on Guitar, Keyboard and Bass, “Anything,” “Impulse” and other An Endless Sporadic tracks are currently available on iTunes.

Not to be outdone, fellow Neversoft Designer David Stowater presents Sworn’s debut in the Guitar Hero franchise with “Electro Rock.” Sworn fuses a combination of Rock, Electronica and Hip-Hop styles, producing an eclectic sound that reveals the music within you. “Electro Rock” as well as other Sworn tracks will be available on iTunes on October 26th, the same day that Guitar Hero World Tour is released.

Both “Anything” and “Electro Rock” will be available as downloadable content when Guitar Hero World Tour launches on October 26th, free of charge, on Xbox LIVE® Marketplace and the PLAYSTATION®Store. Music fans can learn more about the artists, check out pictures and listen to additional tracks on their myspace pages at www.myspace.com/anendlesssporadic and www.myspace.com/swornproductions.

'Dune Buggy' is a song about a spider and his girlfriend riding in a little blue dune buggy. It is my anthem. Until such a time as Harmonix wakes up and adds Stan Bush's 'The Touch' to their game, this shall be the only song I play, as far as any of you are concerned.

Rockband II Gamepack News [Official PUSA Site - Thanks TRTX!]

The tracks, which we'll unofficially refer to as the Harmonix Gift Horse Track Pack, are:

• The 88 - "Sons and Daughters"
• Authority Zero - "No Regrets"
• Between the Buried and Me - "Prequel To The Sequel"
• The Cab - "Bounce"
• The Chevelles - "Get It On"
• The Cocktail Slippers - "Give It To Me"
• Dealership - "Database Corrupted"
• Endeverafter - "I Wanna Be Your Man"
• The Ghost Hounds - "Ashes To Fire"
• Hollywood Undead - "Young"
• Kutless - "The Feeling"
• The Len Price 3 - "If I Ain't Got You"
• Lesley Roy - "I'm Gone, I'm Going"
• Opiate for the Masses - "Burn You Down"
• Semi-Precious Weapons - "Magnetic Baby"
• Shaimus - "Like a Fool"
• Thenewno2" - Crazy Tuesday"
• Tickle Me Pink - "The Time Is Wrong"
• Underoath - "Desperate Times, Desperate Measures"
• X Japan - "I.V."

And there you go.

Rock Band 2 Free DLC Revealed [IGN]

The other two packs are for the hardcore Mega Man 9 player, with Hard Mode kicking asses and Expert Mode crawling up inside and kicking intestines. I sure paint a pretty picture, don't I?

Hey Mega Man junkies,

We’re proud to announce that the second of Downloadable Content packs for Mega Man 9 will be available this week. Here’s the run down on what’s coming out.

Hard Mode – Dubbed Hero Mode in Japan, this mode enables you to play the entire game on an increased difficulty level with alternate enemy distribution and spawning points. Hard Mode is not compatible with Rankings or Challenges Modes.

Expert Mode – Dubbed Super Hero Mode Japan, this mode represents the apex of Mega Man 9 difficulty settings and is not for the novice Mega Man 9 player. This mode triples the level of difficulty from the default Mega Man 9 game. Expert Mode is not compatible with Rankings or Challenges Modes.

Special Time Attack Stage – This DLC gives you an additional stage for Time Attack Mode, complete with an all new level and Robot Master Boss, “Fake Man.” Similar in difficulty to the Willy Stages, players will have a fun time tackling this time sensitive competitive stage. Special Time Attack Stage is not compatible with Challenge Mode.

All three DLC packs are available now on WiiWare Channel today (October 20 th, 2008) with XBLA following on October 21 th, and PSN releasing October 23 th.

This comes in the form of Challenge Rooms - areas designed to test specific skills that the player will have learned as they explorer Rapture. The self-contained areas feature puzzles and difficult obstacles that can only be overcome in a set time limit by applying your hard-won skills.

The DLC will be available via PSN on November 20th, although no pricing has yet been released.

BioShock PS3 Challenge Rooms out November 20 [Video Gamer]

Cost to you is a mere $1.99 (160 Microsoft Points) per track, with the full Nirvana "7 Pack" priced at $10.99 (880 Microsoft Points). Cheap!

• "Breed"
• "Lounge Act"
• "On a Plain"
• "Polly"
• "Something in the Way"
• "Stay Away"
• "Territorial Pissings"

I haven't really kept track of Oasis since the early days, but I'm sure this is a good thing for those fans still aware that they are putting out music. Just remember to pause the game before the fistfights break out.

Oasis Joins Forces With Guitar Hero® World Tour to Bring New Album, Dig Out Your Soul, as Downloadable Content

'Bag it Up,' 'Waiting for the Rapture' and Hit Single 'The Shock of the Lightning' to arrive in November; Full Album Available in 2009

SANTA MONICA, Calif., Oct 17, 2008: Gamers looking to shred, drum and wail away to the new sounds of beloved, multi-platinum UK rock band, Oasis, need not wait much longer as music from the band's critically acclaimed Dig Out Your Soul album will soon be available for download in Activision Publishing, Inc.'s (Nasdaq: ATVI) Guitar Hero® World Tour.

Featuring "Bag it Up," "Waiting for the Rapture" and the hit first single "The Shock of the Lightning" from the band's seventh studio album, the Oasis Track Pack will be available on November 6th for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system. In addition, the three tracks will be released as single downloadable songs for both the Xbox 360 and PLAYSTATION 3. The Dig Out Your Soul album, in its entirety or via individual singles, will be available for download in 2009.

When the house lights go down on October 26th, a new generation of guitarists, drummers and fearless frontmen will come together and rock with Guitar Hero World Tour. The latest installment in the #1 best-selling video game franchise of 2007, Guitar Hero World Tour transforms music gaming by expanding Guitar Hero's signature guitar gameplay into a cooperative band experience that combines the most advanced wireless controllers with new revolutionary online* and offline gameplay modes including Band Career and 8-player "Battle of the Bands," which allows two full bands to compete head-to-head online for the first time ever. The game features a slick newly redesigned guitar controller, drum kit controller and a microphone, as well as an innovative Music Studio music creator that lets players compose, record, edit and share their own rock 'n' roll anthems. Music creators will also be able to share their recordings with their friends online through GHTunes(SM) where other gamers can download and play an endless supply of unique creations.

Guitar Hero World Tour is being developed by Neversoft Entertainment for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and PLAYSTATION3 computer entertainment system. The Wii version is being developed by Vicarious Visions. The PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system version is being developed by Budcat. The game is rated "T" for Teen by the ESRB. For more information on Guitar Hero World Tour, please visit http://worldtour.guitarhero.com/.

As far as incompatible franchise mashups go, Viva Piñata Vs Killer Instinct must be eligible for some kind of award. Only Manhunt Vs Animal Crossing could compete, really.

Nevertheless, that is what Rare are offering via the medium of Piñata Vision cards. By downloading and printing out this set of Killer Instinct themed Vision cards and then laboriously scanning them in to the game via a Vision camera, you can get some, er, KI Piñata.

PIÑATA VISION CARDS [Rare]

Lara’s latest tomb-raiding adventure will be expanded with the release of two sets of DLC exclusive to the Xbox 360, Eidos today announced. Tomb Raider: Underworld sees the lovely Lady Croft visiting Mexico, Thailand and the Mediterranean as well as getting to gripes with Norse mythology on her search for Thor’s Hammer.

The first – Beneath the Ashes - will hit Xbox Marketplace towards the end of December and continue Lara’s adventures after the main storyline of Underworld has finished. Featuring a new and exclusive area, players will be able to kill new enemies as well as uncover even more secrets.

The second pack with the even more mysterious moniker of Lara’s Shadow will be released in early 2009 and expand gameplay even more by introducing a new playable character. Lara’s Shadow …. Lara’s Shadow …. Hmm who could the new character be?

EIDOS AND XBOX ANNOUNCE EXCLUSIVE DOWNLOADABLE CHAPTERS FOR TOMB RAIDER: UNDERWORLD

First New Chapter Rolls Out in Time for the Holidays with Game Demo Available in October

Monday 6th October/... Eidos Interactive, creator of some of the world’s leading video game properties, today announces an agreement with Microsoft to release two brand new downloadable chapters in the continuing Tomb Raider adventures of Lara Croft. Containing up to six hours of new gameplay and content for Tomb Raider: Underworld™, the chapters will be available exclusively on Xbox LIVE® Marketplace for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft®. A demo for Tomb Raider: Underworld will also be available on Xbox LIVE Marketplace in October.

Offering entirely new content specifically designed to extend the Tomb Raider: Underworld experience, Tomb Raider: Underworld – Beneath the Ashes and Tomb Raider: Underworld – Lara’s Shadow will deliver two very different single player gameplay experiences. Tomb Raider: Underworld – Beneath the Ashes takes place after the Underworld story has finished and will feature an incredible new environment to explore, additional secrets to unlock and different enemies to fight. Tomb Raider: Underworld - Lara’s Shadow will introduce players to a new kind of playable character and create a unique Tomb Raider experience.

The first new chapter, Tomb Raider: Underworld – Beneath the Ashes, will be available for download exclusively on Xbox LIVE Marketplace this Christmas. Tomb Raider: Underworld – Lara’s Shadow will follow in early 2009.

“We are constantly looking at ways to extend our franchises, whilst developing a deeper relationship with our players. The retail release of any videogame is just the start of the player experience, from there it all depends where you want to take the player in terms of ideas and innovation,” said Sean Vesce. “With these additional chapters and the online reach of Xbox LIVE, we are able to deliver exclusive content to millions of gamers worldwide.”

“We’re thrilled that Xbox owners will be able to extend their Lara Croft adventures with exclusive ‘Tomb Raider: Underworld’ episodes,” said George Peckham, General Manager of Global Third Party Publishing for Microsoft’s Interactive Entertainment Business. “We look forward to continue working closely with our great publishing partners to deliver the most robust gaming experiences, only on Xbox 360.”

Tomb Raider: Underworld will release on Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system, PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system, Wii™, PlayStation®2, Nintendo DS, and PC Games for Windows platforms. With development led by Crystal Dynamics, developers of the recent Tomb Raider blockbusters, Tomb Raider: Underworld™ represents a new advancement in exploration-based gameplay. As the fearless adventurer Lara Croft, players explore, raid and solve the mysteries of exotic locations around the world, each designed in breathtaking high-definition visual fidelity that creates a truly believable world and delivers a new level of challenge and choice. For more information, visit the official site at http://www.tombraider.com.

Xbox LIVE is the first and most comprehensive unified online entertainment network seamlessly integrated throughout the entire console experience, making it easy for people to find the friends, games and entertainment they want from the moment they power on their Xbox 360 system. Xbox LIVE connects more than 12 million members across 26 countries to enjoy hundreds of multiplayer games, downloadable games via Xbox LIVE Arcade, free and premium playable game demos, music videos, and movies as well as new game levels, characters and vehicles for all their favorite retail games.

The DLC packs are available today on the Wii, with the 360 getting it tomorrow and PlayStation 3 on Thursday, as per usual. While the other two consoles wait, here's a look at what Wii owners are doing right now.

Teh before:

Teh aftar:

New Xbox Experience: Games Marketplace [Major Nelson's Blog, via Game Stooge (pic)]

Epic has also revealed to the folks at GamePro that people who attend midnight launch events around the country will also be able to snag a code for a gold-plated Hammerburst assault rifle, the perfect companion to the gold-plated Lancer that comes with the special edition.

Gears of War 2 getting free day-one DLC, gold Hammerburst [GamePro]

Along with the new cars comes difficulty tweaks for races, increased rewards for winning, and some changes to the penalty system that I, as someone who has yet to take advantage of the highly-priced demo, couldn't possibly understand. Hit the link for more details, or just turn on your PS3 and load up the game, which I am sure will explain everything.

Gran Turismo 5 Prologue Update Available Now! And Includes NEW CARS!! [PlayStation Blog]

Personally I hate console-specific premiums, as they generally tack an hour onto my visit at the game store, picking up one, putting it back, picking up the other, putting it back. I'm can be a pretty indecisive guy when I decide to.

EA Announces That Dead Space Has Gone Gold
The Award-Winning Sci-Fi Survival Horror Game Ships to Retailers on Oct. 14

REDWOOD CITY, Calif.—(BUSINESS WIRE)—Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ:ERTS), announced today that Dead Space™, the highly anticipated new survival horror game, has gone gold and will ship in North America on October 14 for the Xbox 360® videogame and entertainment system and PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system. The PC version will ship on October 20. Dead Space will be in stores in Europe on October 24 for the Xbox 360, PLAYSTATION 3 system and the PC.

Players who buy the Xbox 360 and PLAYSTATION 3 versions of the game within the first two weeks of the game’s release will have the opportunity to download a platform exclusive suit. Xbox 360 fans can download the Xbox-themed Elite Suit* on Xbox LIVE® Marketplace and PLAYSTATION 3 fans can download the PlayStation-themed Obsidian Suit* on the PLAYSTATION®Network. Both of these suits will feature new looks and increased toughness and inventory slots, to help players fight for survival in the Dead Space universe.

In addition, for Xbox 360 owners in North America, the EA Store™ is offering a very limited run of 1000 copies of the Dead Space Ultra Limited Edition. This package contains a copy of the game, Dead Space Downfall Animated Movie on DVD, bonus content DVD, 97-page art book, the 160-page graphic novel (which combines all six issues of the Dead Space comics), exclusive lithograph illustrated and individually signed by Ben Templesmith, and an Ishimura crew patch, all sealed in a limited edition Dead Space packaging. The Dead Space Ultra Limited Edition can be ordered through the EA Store and will ship on October 14.

The bold and often bloody Dead Space promises to deliver the ultimate in psychological terror and gruesome cinematic action. Set in the cold blackness of deep space, the atmosphere in Dead Space is soaked with a feeling of tension, dread and sheer terror. In Dead Space, players step into the role of mining engineer Isaac Clarke, an ordinary man on a seemingly routine mission to fix the communications systems aboard a deep space mining ship. It’s not long before Isaac awakes to a living nightmare filled with vicious genetic mutations inside a dead, claustrophobic silence. Now Isaac is cut off, trapped, and engaged in a desperate fight for survival.

Under development at EA Redwood Shores, Dead Space has been rated M for Mature with descriptors of Blood and Gore, Intense Violence and Strong Language by the ESRB and 18+ for PEGI. Dead Space will be available for MSRP $59.99 on the Xbox 360 and PLAYSTATION 3 system and MSRP $49.99 for the PC. The Dead Space Ultra Limited Edition will be available on the Xbox 360 for MSRP $149.95. For more information about the game, go to the website at http://www.deadspacegame.com or http://info.ea.com.