Press release: 2000-04-25: Maken X for Sega Dreamcast Introduces a New Approach to First Person Fighting Games

From Sega Retro

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This is an unaltered copy of a press release, for use as a primary source on Sega Retro. Please do not edit the contents below.
Language: English
Original source: The Free Library


SAN FRANCISCO--(ENTERTAINMENT WIRE)--April 25, 2000

Players Possess a Wide Range of Characters in This Cinematic

Action Game Resulting in Over a Half Dozen Possible Endings

Sega(R) of America, Dreamcast Inc. today announced the release of "Maken X(TM)" for the 128-bit, Internet-ready Sega Dreamcast(TM) videogame console. Continuing Sega's tradition of innovative game offerings, "Maken X" - developed for Sega Dreamcast by Atlus - represents a new breed of first-person fighting games. Throughout this action-bloated battlefest, players assume the role of a supernatural blade and use it to combat foes and possess different individuals. Depending on who is under the spell of Maken, there is an array of branching storylines. With incredibly fast pacing, a unique targeting system, immersing 3D sound, multiple endings and a non-stop supply of opposition, there's little room for relaxation.

In "Maken X," players take the form of Maken, a mystical sword-like instrument that is able to possess characters in a process known as "brainjacking." In addition to allowing a player to acquire a new body, brainjacking enables characters to learn new actions and information vital to the plot. As a result, how the game ends depends on which character is under the influence of Maken. Since there are 13 different characters that can be brainjacked, this title has plenty of replay value.

The "Maken X" storyline unfolds in three different parts: Event Scenes, Action Scenes and World Map. Event Scenes are cinematic episodes that require the gamer to respond to certain questions, while "Action Scenes" represent the hands-on dueling element. Depending on the player's response to key questions during Event Scenes and their decisions during Action Scenes, the story will diverge into several side-stories with 7 different possible endings. Using the World Map, the player can move between different stages and spot the locations of key characters, including those who can be brainjacked.

"With `Maken X,' Sega has redefined the nature of first-person action adventure games for Sega Dreamcast," said Charles Bellfield, director of marketing communications, Sega of America. "Given its unique concept and visceral gameplay, Sega has raised the bar in first person gameplay."

The first-person fighting system in "Maken X" is cutting edge in all senses. Using a unique lock-on system, players can target an opponent's weakest area to deliver the most damage. Among the combat options are the basic attack, the multiple attack, a special attack and the ability to deflect opponent's projectiles. Players can also utilize a variety of hand-held weapons to hack and slash their way through some of the most gruesome creatures ever seen.

Thanks to the power of Sega Dreamcast, "Maken X" has incredibly gorgeous graphics, sound, and a fast pace that's tough to beat. Throughout the game, there are more than 20 massive levels, all designed with a life-like flair. "Maken X" has positional 3D surround sound for added realism, so players will feel like they're in the game. The tempo is also enhanced, with graphics that fly by at an incredibly ultra-smooth 60 frames per second.

"Maken X" is available for $49.95 at retailers nationwide and at www.sega.com. "Maken X" is rated M for Mature.

About Sega Dreamcast

Sega Dreamcast is available in the US with a built-in 56K modem, allowing for full Internet functionality via SegaNet(TM), the only high-speed online console gaming network and ISP service for Sega Dreamcast and PC users. Sega Dreamcast currently has more than 80 titles available. Third-party titles currently in the works will bring the total Sega Dreamcast game library count to more than 200 in the year 2000.

Sega Dreamcast's advanced 128-bit architecture makes it the first console with evolutionary capabilities, allowing it to grow and change to match advances in technology and the needs and desires of the consumer.

In the first 24 hours of availability, Sega Dreamcast netted over $97 million at retail, more than tripling the past entertainment industry record set by Star Wars: The Phantom Menace at $28 million on its first day. Since it launched, Sega Dreamcast has sold almost 2 million units, beating sales milestones set by other high-profile consumer and electronics products such as Tickle Me Elmo(TM) and Apple's iMac.

About Sega

Sega of America Dreamcast, Inc. is the arm of Tokyo, Japan-based Sega Enterprises, Ltd. responsible for the development, marketing and distribution of Sega videogame systems and videogames in the Americas. Sega Enterprises, Ltd. is a nearly $2.5 billion company recognized as the industry leader in interactive digital entertainment media, offering interactive entertainment experiences both inside and outside the home. Sega of America's World Wide Web site is located at www.sega.com.
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