As we mentioned a few days ago, Valve announced it would release the official Counter-Strike Bot, as well as an updated version de_tides, rebuilt by Turtlerock Studios. True to their word, it is now available through steam, which also updates a few other maps and a few other tweaks. Read more for details ...

In TimeSplitters Future Perfect, Cortez - the hero from previous installments - returns with humanity on the brink of destruction. With the help of some familiar faces (some very familiar!) he must chase a mystery foe across different time periods to trace the origins of the TimeSplitters and save the day.

Vivisector: Beast Inside developed by Action Forms (creators of Chasm and Carnivores series) is a unique mixture of 3D Action/Horror. The game blends a thrilling interactive story with intense, high-adrenaline action and immerses players in a rich and fascinating storyline.

DreamCatcher Games today announced it has joined forces with MC2 to publish and distribute Obscure in North America. This Survival Horror game will be available for the PlayStation2, Xbox and PC, in March 2005.

After EA previously locked down the NFL, today it has signed a long-term agreement for the development and integrated marketing of EA SPORTS games containing ESPN content. The relationship will include established EA SPORTS franchises -- which will be enhanced by ESPN telecast, print and online content – as well as new sports games to be published by EA based on ESPN media properties.

Paradox has released the first patch for its strategy game Hearts of Iron 2. This update brings your retail game to v1.1 and adds interface inhancements, gameplay changes, AI improvements, addition of mod support, and a long list of bug fixes and balance adjustments. Read more for download links ...

"Stranger" is a real-time strategy game, with elements of role playing games set in a world, split in two parts, surface and a subterranean one, which are in a tenuous balance. 'Stranger' will also feature multiplayer although details beyond "The players may play on their own, or unite in teams" are a bit sktechy.

Akella is making yet another pirate game, after Sea Dogs and Pirates of the Caribbean, it is now time for the Age of Pirates. Known in Russia under Corsairs 2, this AoP will be distriuted under that name in Europe and North America. No details or planned release date are known yet, but at least there are some new screens ...

After 2 months, 1.4 million mod profile visitors and 8,000 different voters, the 2004 Golden Spanner Mod of the Year Awards have been decided, by the visitors and gamers who know best. As expected, Half-Life based mods polled well, although mods from over 10 other games also finished up top, a testament to the talent out there. Head to the feature and read up on the top three mods from all gameplay styles (action, adventure, racing, etc.) and also the top three mods for each design area (best models, textures, maps, etc.)

The add-on to the successful game Transport Giant takes you to the Earth's most fascinating and mysterious, but also most dangerous continent – Down under to Australia!