Today at the annual Game Developers Conference (GDC), Microsoft Corp. announced the first details of its next-generation Xbox, highlighting how hardware, software and services are being fused to power enhanced game and entertainment experiences. Read more for details on new features such as custom playlists, marketplace, gamer cards etc..

GarageGames announced today at the Game Developers Conference a new engine and multiple programs that make it easier for people to build their games. The Torque Game Development Platform recently added the Torque 2D engine, which joins the proven Torque Game Engine and the next-generation Torque Shader Engine to make the complete game development platform.

Singles 2: Triple Trouble offers players a whole host of new relationship possibilities to manage, along with the everyday necessities of going to work, maintaining a 'happy home' and equipping their flat with the latest furniture and mod-cons. Using a new 3D engine, SINGLES can be dressed in a whole range of different outfits, express themselves in even more realistic and recognisable ways and explore beyond their apartment to new locations, where they can meet other characters for friendship, romance, possibly more?

Finnish game developer Frozenbyte has unveiled its first PC action game Preyground. The game brings fresh air to the genre with its explosive action sequences and innovative weapon upgrade system. Preyground also features cutting-edge realistic lighting technology, a thrilling sound environment and a unique top-down perspective that create an epic gaming experience ready to launch in Q3 2005.

Atari today announced that Dragon Ball Advanced Adventure is scheduled for European release in spring 2005 for the GBA. Based around the original Dragon Ball TV series it gives fans and players alike the opportunity to play through the adventures of Goku in his courageous search for the Dragon Balls. Featuring three different game modes, multiplayer action and many un-lockable extras, Dragon Ball Advanced Adventure is destined to be an essential addition to any Dragon Ball fan's collection.

APM film and television composer Gregor Narholz, The Rookie, Saturday Night Life, Star Trek, Spongebob, will compose and arrange the music for Activision's X-Men Legends II, under development at Raven, based on Marvel's legendary Super Hero team.

Earlier today we put up SEGA's Spartan Total Warrior announcement, but what was not included was the fact that SEGA simply bought out the UK developer. SEGA Europe today announced that the company has acquired the hugely successful development studio, The Creative Assembly. Founded in 1997, headed up by Tim Ansell and operating from offices in the UK and Australia, The Creative Assembly team has produced a catalogue of hits throughout their history and notably is the team behind the award winning Total War franchise.

Super Monkey Ball Deluxe, for the first time on PS2 and Xbox consumers for the first time, features 300 stages (114 from Super Monkey Ball, 140 from Super Monkey Ball 2, and 46 Deluxe-exclusive boards). Read more for new screens ...

Battles In Normandy brings wargamers back to the western front with historical scenarios including two monster campaigns, and eight smaller historical scenarios. A full scenario editor is included and additional free scenarios are available online. This demo includes both a tutorial on the game and a full “Ardennes Offensive” scenario, also known as the Battle of the Bulge. Read more for download links ...