CES Showcase to Feature Variety of Gaming Technologies

The 2008 International CES will feature gaming hardware and software in one central location, including advancements in online and PC gaming, in conjunction with the entire range of consumer electronics products at its Gaming Showcase, officials said Monday.

The International CES returns to Las Vegas Jan. 7 to 10.

The latest in gaming technology will be prominently featured at CES, as the exhibit space for gaming expands by more than 65% this year over 2007. Total revenue from the game category is expected to reach $18.3 billion in 2008, up from $15.4 billion in 2007.

CES’ major gaming exhibitors include: Commodore Gaming, Entropia Universe, Red Lion Interactive, Shuttle Computers and War Machine, all exhibiting at CES for the first time this year, along with CES veterans LumiSource, Red Beard and InterAction Laboratories. Microsoft and Sony will also feature the latest developments in the gaming world at their respective booths.

Microsoft chairman Bill Gates, producer of the Xbox -- which launched at CES in 2001 -- will once again deliver the opening CES Keynote address at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 6.

Gamers will be able to check out:

•           CES Game Power Conference Partner Program - These sessions will bring attendees nto the world of gaming creativity, platforms, business opportunities and marketing strategies.

•           The Sandbox Summit: A Playdate with Technology Partner Program - Get a handle on the toys, trends and products that are shaping the way kids play today.

•           CES Mobile Entertainment Partner Program - The advances in technologies, platforms, devices, content and consumer sophistication add up to one of the most compelling success stories the CE industry has ever seen.

•           Home and Lifestyle Entertainment Knowledge Track - Consumers want their entertainment real, dynamic and accessible. Learn what and how they’ll be watching, listening and playing from the comfort of their homes.

•           Blu-ray Disc TechZone: Blu-ray Disc is supported by more CE, PC, gaming and entertainment companies than any other HD format, offering consumers a broad range of hardware and content to choose from, as well as the ability to enjoy Blu-ray discs (and existing DVDs) in more players, PC and gaming consoles.

•           HD DVD TechZone: HD DVD is based on the original DVD format, taking the best features of DVD and adding a new layer of interactivity that allows for never-before-seen movie experiences.