A suspicious list of "leaked" Microsoft E3 announcements is currently circulating the internet, supposedly originating from an open-mouthed, err... E3 floor manager.
It's more than likely a load ofBS, but we've taken a gander anyway and noted whether the rumored announcements are ever likely to come to fruition:
"Bungie working on new title/series not related to anything in the Halo/Marathon Universe."
Likely, but we doubt Microsoft will speak any word of this until Halo 3 (its most important release ever) is out the door.
"Epic Games to show some form of Gears of War 2 Trailer."
Unlikely. Unless Epic is shooting out a quickfire follow-up out the door, it's just too early.
"Microsoft buys up Star Wars Battlefront 3 rights. Trailer/Demo to be shown."
Possible. Free Radical is handling the new Battlefront, and we're sure it'll be special enough to warrant Microsoft's cash.
"Rare to show off Banjo Kazooie 3 (Banjo-Threerie?)."
Very, very likely. It's been almost a year since we saw theX06 teaser trailer.
"Rare to announce two new games, Kameo 2."
Likely. Currently Banjo is Rare's only announced title, so there's certainly more games to be revealed. Lackluster sales paint a grim chance of Kameo 2, but Microsoft is desperate for family-orientated games at the moment...
"Lionhead Studios show more of Fable 2."
Almost certain.
"Microsoft to fund a new game based on Jason Bourne. It'll be based on the books and not the film with Matt Damon."
Nope. Vivendi owns the rights to the Bourne license.
"Team Ninja to show off Ninja Gaiden 2. Labeled 360 Exclusive."
Likely. We're still waiting to see anything on the true sequel but would it be too close to the release of Sigma on PS3? Then again, it's supposed to be an MS exclusive, right?
"Dead Rising 2 to be shown. May not be ready."
Possible. We know it's coming.
"News of a MGS Game for the 360. May or may not be the 4th installment."
Possible. Rumors have been rampant for months that the PS3 won't be the only console with Solid Snake this year.
"Blood Omen: Legacy of Kain announced for XBLA."
Not going to happen, not from Silicon Knights anyway.
"Gas Powered Games new IP."
Very Likely. Watch this space.
"MS is publishing Power Stone 3 for Xbox 360."
Sounds like a fanboy's wet dream to us.
Oh, and Microsoft said it "doesn't comment on rumor or speculation." Didn't see that coming.
June 18, 2007
