In 2010, Microsoft's Kinect motion controller was released on Xbox 360 with the launch title of Kinectimals. This game allows players to build a fun and interactive relationship with fantastic wild feline pets. Later in 2011, the 'Now With Bears!' expansion was released which added cuddly bear cubs to the game.
Frontier brought the wildly popular Zoo Tycoon franchise to console for the first time on both Xbox 360 and Xbox One in 2013. The collaboration between Microsoft Studios and Frontier ensured that fans of the series felt at home while providing new and exciting features that were only possible on the Xbox platforms. This version of Zoo Tycoon was praised by critics as the best title in the series to date!
Zoo Tycoon made its debut on Wii in 2009 as part of the WiiWare platform before launching on iOS and Android in 2008. LostWinds was also among the launch titles for WiiWare, but it was not until 2008 that it launched on PC through Steam.
LostWinds is a classic platform adventure game in which players control Toku, a young boy who can take the power of wind in his palm. The game offers a magical and award-winning experience that involves guiding Toku and Enril through various challenges, such as destroying enemies, solving puzzles, and exploring a beautiful fantasy world. It can be played on different platforms such as PC, Nintendo Wii, iOS, Europe, USA/Canada, Disneyland Adventures and more.
RollerCoaster Tycoon 3 is another game developed by Frontier and published by Atari. Released in November 2004, it quickly became a Number One PC title and has continued to be enjoyed by players around the world on PC and mobile devices for over a decade. It was released on PC, iOS, Europe and USA/Canada.
Disneyland Adventures is also a game developed by Frontier, in collaboration with Microsoft Studios and Disney. It was released in 2011 and provides a highly accurate re-creation of Disneyland in Anaheim. Players are able to enjoy full open-world exploration using Kinect technology for the first time. The game is available on various platforms such as PC, Nintendo Wii, iOS, Europe, USA/Canada and Disneyland Adventures.
Disneyland Adventures is a game intended for all ages and is one of the largest games ever published by Microsoft Studios. With over 100 hours of gameplay, this title is perfect for players who want to experience an exciting adventure in a magical world. The game is available on Xbox, PC, Apple, Nintendo Wii, and PlayStation platforms.
For those who prefer a more traditional platform, LostWinds: Winter of the Melodias is another game from Microsoft Studios. This follow-up to the award-winning title ‘LostWinds’ offers players the opportunity to instantly transform Mistralis between Summer and Winter, harnessing the brilliance of nature. With frozen winter ponds and waterfalls becoming deep summer pools and chambers, players can dive into these mysterious worlds and unlock secrets hidden beneath the ice.
Other amazing new abilities include the cyclone, which can be used to transport Toku, smash powerful enemies, and even drill through the rocks of Mistralis’ diverse, richly interactive Chilling Peaks and Melodia City areas. This game is compatible with Xbox, PC, Apple, and Nintendo Wii platforms.
For those looking for a different type of adventure, Screamride is a game that offers players a unique ride-through experience. This game is available on Xbox and PC platforms.
In conclusion, there are many different types of games available for players of all ages, including Disneyland Adventures, LostWinds: Winter of the Melodias, and Screamride. These games offer a wide range of experiences and are available on various platforms, so there is something for everyone to enjoy.
creamRide is a thrilling game that offers high-definition graphics, customizable building components, physics-based destruction, cinematic collisions, and more. It is home to limitless innovation and pushes the boundaries of thrill-seeking everywhere. In this game, players are given the opportunity to take on their perfect role and complete each level in multiple ways. Scream seekers can prove their precise piloting skills, engineers can solve cunning construction puzzles, and demolition experts can ignite the most explosive carnage possible. The path you choose is entirely up to you!
Launched in 2014 with Amazon Games Studios on Fire OS and iOS, Tales from Deep Space is a comic adventure set on Big Moon, the most eccentric space station in the galaxy. Players help E, a traveling salesman, and his loyal luggage drone CASI escape when Big Moon is thrown into lockdown. This game is available on both iOS and Amazon Fire OS platforms.
In addition to these two games, there's also Coaster Crazy.
Coaster Crazy is a game that was first launched in 2012 as a free to play app on the iOS platform. This game, which has gained immense popularity, has now been released on other platforms such as Wii U and Amazon Kindle Fire in 2013 and 2014 respectively. Coaster Crazy offers an immersive experience of building roller coasters using a touchscreen interface, providing players with a fun and easy way to build their own coaster empire in iconic locations across the world.
Coaster Crazy: Off the Rails is one of the most popular rides in the game. It features 20 death-defying rides that are so outrageous they inspire the same word from every park visitor who sees them: “WHOA!” Players must build these incredible “WHOA Coasters” to leap from one track to another, launch through the air like cannonballs, blast through a burning ring of fire and more.
The game is available in various regions around the world, including Europe, USA/Canada, and Thrillville: Off the Rails. In Europe, players can enjoy the thrill of riding some of the most daring roller coasters in the world, while in Thrillville: Off the Rails, they can experience the ultimate roller coaster adventure by building their own unique coasters.
In conclusion, Coaster Crazy is an exciting and engaging game that lets players build their own roller coaster empire. With its diverse range of rides across different regions, it provides players with endless hours of fun and entertainment. Whether you're a fan of roller coasters or simply looking for a new challenge, Coaster Crazy is definitely worth checking out.
But the new fun doesn't stop there. Off the Rails features 34 playable multiplayer minigames, 15 all-new theme areas, over 40 thrill rides, a new story that ties together more than 100 missions, and social interaction with park guests that's better than ever. The in-depth conversations both advance the plot and suggest better ways to manage the park.
PC: PC is one of the platforms where Thrillville can be played. This platform allows players to create their own custom amusement parks and party nonstop in an interactive and fully customizable world. Players can enjoy all the latest updates and gameplay features on the PC version of Thrillville.
PlayStation: PlayStation is another popular platform where Thrillville can be played. This platform offers a unique and immersive experience for players who prefer console gaming. Players can explore the different theme areas, engage in thrilling rides, and interact with other park guests through social features.
Xbox: Xbox is another console platform where Thrillville can be played. This platform offers a range of exciting gameplay options for players, including single-player mode and multiplayer mode. Players can customize their amusement park, build roller coasters, and compete against each other in exciting minigames.
Nintendo Wii: Nintendo Wii is a console platform that has received critical acclaim for its innovative gameplay features. In Thrillville on Wii, players can experience a range of physical activities like riding roller coasters, playing minigames with friends, and engaging in outdoor adventures. The game also includes motion controls that allow players to interact with the environment in a more intuitive way.
Nintendo DS: Nintendo DS is a handheld console platform that offers a unique and portable gaming experience. In Thrillville on DS, players can enjoy all the same gameplay features as on other platforms, but in a more compact and convenient package. Players can customize their amusement park, ride roller coasters, and participate in minigames while traveling on the go.
Europe: Europe is home to some of the most popular video game franchises in the world. In Thrillville, players from Europe can enjoy all the latest updates and gameplay features across various platforms like PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Wii, and Nintendo DS.
USA/Canada: USA/Canada is home to some of the world's largest video game markets. In Thrillville, players from USA/Canada can enjoy all the latest updates and gameplay features across various platforms like PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Wii, and Nintendo DS.
In 2005, Frontier joined forces with Aardman Animations and Konami, a leading publisher, to develop the videogame version of the Oscar-winning movie, Wallace and Gromit. This game was released for both PlayStation 2 and Xbox consoles.
Wallace and Gromit: The Curse of the WereRabbit! is a single-player or two-player cooperative game. Players help Wallace,Gromit, and their new sidekick Hutch as they navigate through sinister and deadly situations in search of the extraordinary truth behind The Curse of the WereRabbit!
RollerCoaster Tycoon 2: Wacky Worlds is an expansion pack for the popular RollerCoaster Tycoon 2 game. It was published by Infogrames in Europe, USA, Asia and other regions on PC-CDROM from May 9th, 2003. The game features "Wacky Worlds" which are various themed areas within the world of Rollcoaster Tycoon 2.
The Frontier expansion pack for RollerCoaster Tycoon is a highly-anticipated update that promises to add 17 additional scenarios, as well as a plethora of new scenery items, rides, and other attractions. This expansion aims to provide players with an even greater sense of immersion in the world of theme parks, exploring themes based on seven continents around the globe. For example, players will now have the opportunity to build themed parks in and around iconic locations such as the Great Wall of China, at the European Cultural Festival, a high rise US skyscraper city, an Australian beach party, an African diamond mine, ancient South American temples, or the vast snowscapes of the Antarctic!
RollerCoaster Tycoon first hit consoles in March 2003 with its debut version of the best-selling theme park build/management simulation franchise. Since then, it has become a beloved classic in the gaming community, with millions of players across various console platforms. The Frontier expansion is sure to bring a new level of excitement and engagement to this long-standing franchise, offering fans even more opportunities to explore the world of theme parks and create their own unique experiences for visitors to enjoy.
Frontier had the opportunity to “return the favour” to Chris Sawyer, who previously worked on ports of David Braben's/Frontier's early games to PC. This game was a great lead-in to our work on RollerCoaster Tycoon 3 and provided us with invaluable experience in getting to know Chris' original game.
In single-player action-adventure Wallace and Gromit in Project Zoo, gamers take on the role of lovable dog Gromit and attempt to liberate the Zoo from the evil clutches of maniacal penguin Feathers McGraw. While racing through six massive and action-packed levels, featuring 24 missions and 12 mini arcade games, players will master loads of special moves from Gromit such as back flips, somersaults, and even break dancing.
Wallace's wacky inventions - including the Springy Boots, Banana Launcher, Porridge Gun, Turnip Gun, and Coal Flinger - add to the fun. The game has been ported to various platforms worldwide, including Europe, USA/Canada. It is also worth mentioning that Wallace and Gromit in Project Zoo was developed by EA UK (Electronic Arts) for Microsoft Windows and Xbox systems in 2008.
In the world of mobile gaming, there are a few key players that have made a significant impact. Three such platforms are PC, Playstation, and Xbox, which offer a wide range of gaming options for users. However, one company has taken a different approach - Frontier Developments.
Frontier Developments was founded in 1985 and started out by developing computer games for the Apple II and Macintosh computers. In 1992, they released their first game for the Sega Genesis console. Since then, they have developed a wide range of games, including popular titles like Elite and Dog's Life.
One of Frontier's most notable achievements is the creation of Darxide EMP, which was launched in February 2003. This was an updated (re-balanced) version of the original Darxide for the Sega 32X. It was available for both Pocket PC and Nokia Series 60 Mobile phones and could be downloaded from Frontier's website and other content aggregators' sites.
The technical aspect of creating a true-3D, fast-paced game for mobile platforms is impressive enough, but what sets Darxide EMP apart is its gaming pedigree. It was the result of a collaboration between David Braben and Peter Irvin, who co-authored the games Elite and Exile respectively.
In conclusion, while PC, Playstation, and Xbox remain some of the most popular platforms for mobile gaming, Frontier Developments' Darxide EMP is a testament to the potential of mobile gaming. With its unique blend of technology and gaming expertise, it has established itself as a force to be reckoned with in the industry.
Dog's Life is an innovation in the action-adventure genre, utilizing Frontier's in-house IP to deliver a unique experience from a dog's perspective. Released on October 29, 2003 for PS2, this game was published by Sony Computer Entertainment Europe and received two BAFTA nominations; 'Best Action Adventure' and 'Best Children's Game'. This showcases the studio's sophisticated R-Tag in-house animation technology, which delivers smooth control movements in response to the player's actions.
Infestation is another vehicle-based combat and exploration game developed by Frontier. This title places emphasis on diverse gameplay, with a mission-based campaign that allows players to travel between twenty-two different worlds as they progress. As they explore these worlds, the player has the opportunity to research new weapons and vehicle modes. In addition to the single player mode, Infestation also features four completely different game styles in its multiplayer mode, including racing and football.
While not yet released on PC, Dog's Life and Infestation have already made their mark in the gaming world with their innovative gameplay and stunning graphics. These titles demonstrate Frontier at the forefront of the gaming industry, pushing boundaries and delivering experiences unlike any other
"V2000" was the sequel to Virus, which was published by Grolier Interactive on PC and Playstation in October 1998. It received very favorable reviews with a score of 90% on PC Zone Classic and five full pages in Edge magazine. The game also went on to be one of only three nominees for best game of the preceding few years in the first BAFTA Awards in 1998.
The game showcases its traditional gaming heritage with challenging later worlds that contain a feast of novel game play features. Although there has been some criticism of the difficulty level, it has also received immense praise from hard-core gamers.
Virus, built on Zarch and published by British Telecom (under the Firebird name) for the Atari ST, Commodore Amiga, and IBM PC in 1988, was an instant success.
Both Zarch and Virus significantly raised the bar for 16-bit platform games. They were among the earliest examples of solid 3D graphics in video games. In fact, they were among the first to feature 3D lighting effects and shadows. Additionally, Zarch was one of the first games to generate shadow silhouettes on-the-fly.
"Virus" won "16 bit Game of the Year" at the Computer Industry's InDin awards of 1988. On the other hand, Darxide was released exclusively on the Sega Megadrive 32X console. It was a collaboration between Peter Irvin and was published as SEGA's own brand title. Darxide is one of the few games on the 32X that utilized texture mapping, which gives it a more impressive appearance compared to many Saturn titles. The choice of pushing the 32X over the Saturn was due to its superior software rendered textures at a higher rate than what could be achieved with hardware rendering on the Saturn.
Meanwhile, Zarch was developed by David Braben in just three months in 1987 as a launch title for Acorn's Archimedes series of computers. This game set the standard for early graphical adventures and was widely praised for its innovative gameplay mechanics and stunning visuals.
arch was a highly anticipated game when it was released in 1993. Back then, most other games were either 2D platformers or wire-frame 3D graphics. This is why the tagline on the cover of ACE magazine (now Edge) was so striking: SOLID 3D – the future of games? Zarch's release score was an incredible 979/1000, which is still the highest rating ACE has ever given at that time.
This groundbreaking game was developed for several different platforms, including PC, AMiga, Atari, Acorn and Sinclair. It was also released as part of a series called Frontier: First Encounters, which was released in Easter 1995. Despite being released by its publisher before the development team thought it was ready, this game was well received by critics and players alike.
In 2015, Elite Dangerous: Horizons introduced the use of procedural texturing for the first time to generate vegetation, snow and other features on planet surfaces. This was a significant achievement in the genre, as it allowed developers to create more realistic and immersive environments for players to explore.
Prior to this game, few other titles had utilized similar techniques. However, Frontier: Elite II is often cited as one of the earliest examples of procedural texturing, with its detailed models of the geography of the planets appearing in 1993 when it was released by David Braben and published by Konami Inc. of Japan. The game quickly gained popularity in Europe, topping the Gallup chart for best-selling games in the UK for most of 1993.
Despite the relatively low power of PC hardware available at the time (i.e. Intel 386 machines), Frontier: Elite II remains an influential title in the early years of space simulation games. It set the standard for high-quality graphics and detailed modeling that would be replicated in many later games.
Today, there have been numerous games that have built upon the foundations established by Frontier: Elite II. These include popular titles such as Star Wars: Galaxies, Eve Online, and No Man's Sky. Each of these games has made significant improvements to the mechanics and gameplay while also incorporating new technologies and innovations to enhance the overall experience for players.
Looking back on the history of space simulation games, it is clear that Frontier: Elite II played a key role in shaping the genre and setting the standards for future titles. Its innovative approach to graphics and modeling paved the way for countless advancements in the field, and it remains an important milestone in the evolution of computer gaming.
In 1984, a game that would go on to become one of the most successful games ever was released. It was called "Elite" and it was written by David Braben and Ian Bell while they were still at Cambridge University. The game was first published by Acornsoft on the BBC Micro in September 1984, and it quickly gained critical acclaim.
What made "Elite" unique was its focus on space exploration and trading. Players could control their own ship and explore the galaxy, looking for new resources, trade partners, and other opportunities. The game was also ahead of its time in terms of graphics, with its use of curved surfaces (Bezier) making it stand out from other games at the time.
However, the game was not without controversy. Some critics felt that the game was too focused on trading and not enough on exploration or combat. Others complained about the steep learning curve and the difficulty of some of the game mechanics. Nonetheless, the success of "Elite" paved the way for many other space-themed games in the years to come.
In addition to its impact on gaming, "Elite" also had an impact on computer hardware. The game required specialized hardware to run, including a BBC Micro and a special keyboard that used a different set of keys than a normal keyboard. This led to demand for more powerful computers that could handle the demands of the game.
Despite its initial success, "Elite" would eventually be followed by a sequel in 1987 called "Elite: Dangerous". While it did receive positive reviews, it was not as successful as its predecessor and is now considered to be one of the rarer and less well-known games of its era. Nevertheless, "Elite" remains a classic in the world of gaming and continues to be celebrated for its innovative gameplay, stunning graphics, and groundbreaking use of technology.
In Elite, the player starts with a basic Cobra MkIII spacecraft and a measly 100 credits. The player then has to survive in a hostile galaxy containing traders, pirates, police, bounty hunters, and an elusive alien race, the "Thargoids". The player can earn money in many ways, including taking food from other ships.
