Graffiti Entertainment, the developers behind the new Sky Bandits game for GlobalVR’s Vortek V3 system has released some videos of the new game in action. I’m not sure how other games compare on the same platform but this doesn’t look bad considering the age of the system. My distributor tells me that it can also run on Tsunami motion cabinets, which is an interesting prospect (too bad I still can’t get the joystick to mine working properly, even after replacing it). Here is a video of Sky Bandits, you can also check GVR’s site for extra info.

done

(Thanks to Kevin for the tip)

[SkyBandits @ Graffiti Ent. \ @ GlobalVR] [Discuss on the Forum]

Way back in March we talked about a press release from a company called Signature Devices where they stated that they had completed work on a “new turret-based, first person shooter arcade action game” – since then however we haven’t heard anything about that project so we were beginning to wonder what had happened to it. Today GlobalVR answered that question with a press release, discussing a new game called Sky Bandits for the Vortek V3 system which fits the description of that turret-based, action sci-fi game exactly. Set to be released on Nov. 3rd, it will be an upgrade for the Vortek system (the one with a yellow VR headset that is mounted to a cabinet with an extendable arm) which was released in 1999 so it gets this extra support, which is a little unexpected but likely welcome for operators that have a Vortek and want something new for it.

(click on the thumbnails to enlarge)

I haven’t found any video of the game in action yet but I did find these pictures which feature a very green color scheme. The game is based upon Operation Blockade, which I have not played so I do not know how it compares to other turret-based titles, at least the sci-fi element should make it a little different from the WW2 themed games of the same mold. They do mention that there are a number of weapons upgrades and a lot of different kinds of enemies to destroy, which would be good to see in action.  No word on how much the upgrade will run for yet, I don’t imagine that it will be much though so if it appears on a Vortek machine near you, let us know what you think.

GVR’s press release is after the jump

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

GLOBAL VR® DELIVERS NEW SKY BANDITS™ ACTION GAME FOR VORTEK / V3

SAN JOSE, Calif – (October 15, 2008) — GLOBAL VR today announced that it has put the finishing touches on its new V3/Vortek space shooter, Sky Bandits.  Based on one of the most successful Vortek titles, Operation Blockade, Sky Bandits combines fast paced action with the adventure of space.

GLOBAL VR originally released the Vortek platform to the coin-op industry in 1999.  The yellow helmet and unique user interface continues to entertain players the way no other coin-operated game has.  360 degrees of none stop action continues to make the Vortek/V3 a staple in almost every arcade and entertainment center on every continent. The addition of this exciting new game will help to refresh player interest while increasing the cabinet earnings.

Sky Bandits takes players to the farthest reaches of space where the distinctive sky armadas consist of uniquely designed craft resembling those designed by Jules Vern in 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea.  Players must use their arsenal of blasters and pulsars to destroy the invaders or be destroyed!

Sky Bandits is easy to install and will begin shipping November 3rd, 2008.  It is compatible with GLOBAL VR’s V3 as well as V2 and Deluxe models that have been upgraded.  Operators may choose to run this game as a stand-alone game or as one of the several Vortek games from which players will select.

For information about Sky Bandits, Vortek Upgrades or other GLOBAL VR products, please visit www.globalvr.com or contact your local GLOBAL VR distributor or sales representative.

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About GLOBAL VR
Founded in 1998 and headquartered in San Jose, California, GLOBAL VR® is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of coin-operated video games based on home gaming technology. Through the development of proprietary technology, GLOBAL VR is able to leverage the massive investment in development of PC and console games by third party developers by making them suitable for play in out-of-home locations. Development agreements are in place with some of the world’s leading game publishers including Electronic Arts (NASDAQ: ERTS ), Ubisoft, and Atari (NASDAQ:ATAR). These agreements provide GLOBAL VR rights to create coin-op versions of popular home games such as EA SPORTS™ PGA TOUR® GOLF, Need for Speed Carbon, Underground, NASCAR, Blazing Angels, Beach Head and Operation Blockade.  In addition, GLOBAL VR also develops and manufactures products previously marketed under the UltraCade label, including Global Arcade Classics and Ultrapin. More information on GLOBAL VR can be found at www.globalvr.com.