Burnout - History lesson

Some history
On August 8 2001 Acclaim Entertainment announced that it had entered into an exclusive global publishing agreement with Criterion Games Limited for their eagerly anticipated arcade driving game, Burnout(TM), for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system. The title, which had been in development with the UK-based developer for more than 18 months, was to be released in November 2001.

At this time Burnout had already generated excitement among the European media and was well received at E3, where it was demonstrated behind closed doors. Fiona Sperry, Studio Head and Vice President of Criterion Games Limited at the time said: "We set out to create an exciting, rewarding and intuitive arcade racing game that would appeal to the masses"

The release of the game
In a press release from November 1, 2001 Acclaim announces that they have shipped Burnout(TM), one of the year's most highly anticipated video games for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system. Created by Criterion Games Limited, an award-winning developer of interactive entertainment, Burnout(TM) is an arcade-style driving game that has the gaming industry buzzing with its stunning next-generation graphics and white-knuckle, foot-to-the-floor game play.

"Burnout(TM) is poised to set new benchmarks in the genre this holiday season and is a 'must have' title for PlayStation®2 owners who want to experience the rush of true next-generation racing," said Evan Stein, vice president of Brand. "There is already tremendous demand for the game among consumers and we are thrilled to have it within our diverse multi-platform holiday lineup."

The dedicated video game press had this to say about Burnout(TM):
• "The best crashes ever" - IGN.com
• "One intense racing game"- Official PlayStation Magazine
• "A speed demon's dream" - HOTGAMES.com
• "Fast and Furious" - PlayStation Magazine
• "Hardcore foot-to-the-floor action" - Console Domain

Burnout was first released for the PS2 in November. Xbox and Gamecube owners would have to wait until spring 2002.

The Xbox Release
In a press release from April 30, 2002 Acclaim announces that it has shipped its award-winning arcade driving game Burnout(TM) for the Xbox(TM) video game system from Microsoft and Nintendo GameCube(TM). Created by Criterion Games Limited, Burnout(TM) was one the most heralded games the past fall for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, and offers stunning graphics and white-knuckle, foot-to-the-floor gameplay.

Burnout(TM) offers a broad array of features, including several new items that are exclusive to the Xbox(TM) and GameCube(TM) versions:
• All-new high-resolution visuals, including HDTV and Progressive Scan support, delivering incredibly crisp and clear action up to 480p (GameCube(TM)) and 720p (Xbox(TM));
• Improved deformation models, allowing for more realistic car crashes;
• All-new tri-linear filtering and anti-aliasing, creating smoother textures and images;
• Improved lighting, enhancing the game's realism, including the way light reflects on the cars and tracks;
• Bump mapping (exclusive to the Xbox(TM)), provides greater detail on road surfaces;
• Dolby surround sound technology, including 5.1 channel Dolby Digital audio support (Xbox(TM) version only);
• Improved real-time vehicle crashes, highlighted by multiple-camera instant replays;
• 16 exciting courses, each filled with unique challenges and obstacles, spanning the United States and Europe;
• Multiplayer split-screen action for head-to-head competition;
• More than 300 vehicles to collide with on each course;
• Intelligent traffic system, featuring three distinct types of driver behaviors;
• Vibration enabled controller compatibility, letting players feel every turn and crunch of the car.

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