AnimfxNZ, a conference for digital animation, effects, animation and games, announces the theme for this year's conference. "Where Creative Convergence Begins", represents the conference's goal of bringing together leaders from the four major creative digital mediums to share ideas and further the creation of digital entertainment. AnimfxNZ will take place November 14-16th, in Wellington (New Zealand) and present a line-up of keynotes and panels that feature the brightest minds in digital media today.

The Casual Entertainment Label of Electronic Arts announces Henry Hatsworth in the Puzzling Adventure, an exclusive Nintendo DS adventure-puzzle game that adds a new element of fun by combining the action of an adventure game with the challenge of a puzzle game all in one.

Bangai-O Spirits from classic game designer TREASURE ships to North American markets, courtesy of D3Publisher. Bangai-O Spirits is a compelling blend of twitch-fest shooter and puzzle genres, seasoned with strategic and tactical elements. Bangai-O Spirits offers an extremely powerful level editor tool that makes the player into the game designer, as well as new technology known as Sound Load that allows gamers to transfer data among Nintendo DS systems via sound files — a first for DS handheld systems. Sound Load Technology allows gamers everywhere to catalog, share and compare levels and replay videos all over the world via forums, email and other Web applications. The game is available exclusively for the Nintendo DS system.

Electronic Arts announces that Madden NFL 09 is available in retail stores across North America. Recently named Best Sports Game of E3 in the official "Game Critics Best of Show Awards", Madden NFL 09 celebrates the 20th anniversary of the franchise and is the First Sports Game That Adapts To You while introducing more than 85 new features and enhancements. Whether you are a seasoned veteran, or a franchise rookie, Madden NFL 09 will continuously assess your skills and adjust the gameplay to keep the experience both fun and challenging, all while training gamers to become better Madden players. Madden NFL 09 also includes a brand-new broadcast presentation package featuring Cris Collinsworth and Tom Hammond, online leagues, and the most realistic graphics in franchise history.