The new range of machines saw a return to “core values” for the Sega team, comprising of shooting, driving, vending, crane and redemption titles in a variety of stylish formats. There was a slight move away from the large-scale, card vending management machines that Sega seemed to be backing in previous years, although we are assured that these are still performing and selling well. The most outstanding new title on show seemed to be the latest version of Lets Go Jungle in a theatre format. Let’s Go Jungle Special moves the players out of the Jeep and into a two-seater motion base that moves 360 degrees. Two mammoth screens, cinematic sound and realistic air jets all combine to create an immersive experience. OutRun 2 SP Special Attraction harks back to the glory days of Daytona. Ferrari cabinets – deluxe widescreens and fantastic driving locations. What’s not to like? The same goes for Virtua Fighter 5 – more of the same – plus two new characters and improved graphics. For the right location, you can’t go wrong. Sega Race TV will probably hog some column inches when it is released. We saw some footage, which is a futuristic driver with a novel full voiceover feature, provided by Jake Petersen – whom we presume is well known in the US. The concept is a little complex, if not confusing, with players adopting the personas of “actors” who continue to play the game even when the real player is absent. When the player returns to the game, they discover how well the “actor” has done while they have been away. With repeat play, the “actor” starts to become more like the player in driving style. Extra points are awarded for showing off. On more familiar territory, we had Initial D 4 and Ghost Squad Evolution – good solid titles. Manic Panic Ghosts is a kiddie/couples kind of whacker video concept with cute “Caspar” like ghouls in a haunted castle. Players use a sort of hammer/magic wand to dispense of the spirits utilising a variety of skills. Could be a winner in a high footfall environment with the casual player. Sega has joined forces with K River to market Let Me Dance – the first time the company has backed a third party release. Sega has adapted the photo booth/dancing hybrid to ensure that it has the highest quality components. Three photos are taken of the players who can be solo, duo or part of a trio. These are then superimposed on cartoon bodies that cavort to classics such as The Macarena. CDs are then vended with accompanying artwork from the video. Silly and fun. Alan Smith from the kids division made a presentation largely concentrating on the UFO Catcher Crane. and the new range of plush from the new division Sega Prize Europe. Undoubtedly, the crane has done big things in Asia and pretty well in the US. But given the current “grey” position of cranes due to the new UK legislation and the glut of cheap and cheerful crane product available, it may be more of a challenge in Europe. The crane does have a novel two pincer movement and a screen to show players the techniques for dragging, knocking, pushing and hooking the prizes. The jury is out. Other pieces for kids include the Sonic Spinner – featuring the ubiquitous Sega hedgehog in a classic light-stopping format with interchangeable dials to alter the ticket payout jackpot. All in all the Sega team worked hard to make guests welcome and to explain the games in an entertaining way. Special mention has to be made of the charismatic Aaron Gilbey, who put in a sterling performance (most memorably in a skirt and stockings as a roving reporter to publicise Primeval Hunt a new dinosaur shooting game which will be unveiled at Preview). He made such an impression, that I nearly forgot to mention the game!

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