GameSpot a leading source for information about games, today announced the E3 Hot List, an up-to-the-minute look at the most popular videogames garnering the most interest among males, ages 18-34, for the first day of the show, March 12, 2004.
The E3 Hot List is based on data from GameSpot Trax, the industry's most advanced tool for measuring consumer demand, purchase intent, and the editorial coverage of game titles by tracking the level of online buzz and coverage games are receiving realtime. Introduced in Q1 2003, it has become the buzz scorecard for the industry with close to 200 companies actively using the service.
According to GameSpot Trax, the five games that received the most buzz during day one of E3 are:
#1: METAL GEAR ACID The latest METAL GEAR game, this version is a turn-based tactical strategy game with card battle-like mechanics mixed in. GameSpot senior editor, Jeff Gerstmann, who wrote the game preview said, "Graphically, METAL GEAR ACID looks sharp for a portable game, with good models even at close range. It seems to be an interesting change of pace for the series, and it will be intriguing to see how this game comes together over time." Publisher: Konami; Platform: PSP.
#2: GRAND THEFT AUTO: San Andreas One of the most highly anticipated games of the show, the latest version will take place on the streets of L.A. in the early nineties. Publisher: Rockstar Games; Platform: PlayStation 2.
#3: HALO 2 The sequel to the highly acclaimed 2001 first- person shooter continues the adventures of Master Chief. All new weapons, vehicles and multiplayer modes and levels have made this game one of the big hit at E3. Publisher: Microsoft; Platform: Xbox.
#4: THE LEGEND OF ZELDA (working title) Link is back to his old self in a brand-new trailer for the next LEGEND OF ZELDA game. Publisher: Nintendo; Platform, GameCube.
#5: METAL GEAR SOLID 3: SNAKE EATER The third game in the METAL GEAR SOLID series, the game employs ground-breaking motion capture systems and techniques. Publisher: Konami; Platform: PlayStation 2.
"The overwhelming interest in METAL GEAR ACID shows the intense attention that portable game platforms are receiving at this year's show," said Ankarino Lara, director of GameSpot. "Even more, it shows the close race in the portable gaming market between the Sony PSP and Nintendo DS."
GameSpot (www.gamespot.com), which includes GameFAQs, Game Rankings, GameSpot DLX and now Wireless Gaming Review, is a leading source for game information. GameSpot sites offer free access to tens of thousands of PC and videogame reviews from expert editors, news stories, previews of the hottest upcoming games, game downloads, original broadband programming, video streams, strategy guides and hints.
