Looking ahead, the vid game industry has a slew of exciting new titles on the horizon-ones that might very well have Hollywood sitting up and taking notice. Developed by Volition, a small Illinois-based CGI studio that was acquired by THQ last fall, Red Faction for PS2 (SRP US$39.99) is slated to hit shelves this month. THQ’s VP of marketing Peter Dille says the game’s sophisticated plot makes it a prime target for feature crossover schemes. Red Faction is set in a futuristic mining colony on Mars, and the game’s players start off working in mines run by a large multinational conglomerate. After discovering that the mining operation is a front for more nefarious activities, the workers break out and organize a special forces team called Red Faction to retaliate against the evil corporation. The game introduces Geo-Mod technology, a real-time, arbitrary geometry modification capability that drastically enhances realism and diversity of gameplay by allowing the player to use his weapons on anything in the game, not just designated opponents.

Also spawned by Volition is Summoner (SRP US$39.99), a PS2 title that launched at retail in March. Two years in the making, this game combines a unique look and complex story set in an original fantasy environment. Summoners have toppled empires and challenged gods. To save their kingdom from annihilation, players must journey to lost lands and through forest labyrinths to capture magical rings that can challenge their evil kindred. Features include various camera points of view, state-of-the-art magic and summoning effects, and extra cinematics that enhance the story and gameplay.

Sega is anticipating Hollywood to come sniffing after Floigan Brothers ‘Moigle’s Secret Project,’ a Dreamcast title making its debut next month. Developed by a Sega-owned studio called Visual Concepts in San Rafael, California, the game features cutting-edge artificial intelligence that took three years to develop. Floigan Brothers takes place in a zany universe where the player becomes Hoigle, the quick-witted Floigan who must interact with his brother Moigle to keep the evil Baron Malodorous and his gang of Mercenary Cats from taking over the family turf.

Due to the recent success of Oscar-winning film Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, Activision has been fielding calls about its ninja assassin game franchise Tenchu. The follow-up to 1998’s Tenchu, which sold a million units worldwide, Tenchu 2: Birth of the Stealth Assassin (SRP US$39.95) launched for the PlayStation 1 platform in August 2000. Developed by Tokyo-based Acquire, the sequel stars three young ninja warriors who begin a journey that will test their skills in stealth, strategy and fighting. Featuring authentic ninja items and moves, immersive story lines and cut-scenes, the new game expands upon the original by introducing new mission objectives and character abilities, as well as multiple playing modes that allow players create their own levels.