Gaming News Round-Up: December 27th, 2004

Today's holiday round-up includes a distinctly unconventional bonus map for WarCraft III, as well as a charity auction that's sure to please Richard Dean Anderson aficianados. - In a bizarre and unlikely abuse of the game's engine, the WarCraft III team at Blizzard has delivered an unusual new map for the game: Azeroth Grand Prix, which converts the medieval RTS title into a go-kart racer starring the game's characters. The play style and behind-the-kart viewpoint are reminiscent of Nintendo's Super Mario Kart series, as is the ginned-up logo given to the map. Those interested in trying it out for themselves (and who wouldn't be?) can download Azeroth Grand Prix at the WarCraft III bonus maps site. - Given its status as "one of the most successful TV shows ever", according to game publisher JoWood, there are undoubtedly millions of Stargate SG-1 fans who'll be delighted to learn of their chance to nab a supporting role in the video game based on the property. Therefore, the developer is holding an eBay auction, the winner of which will have his or her likeness digitized into the game as one of the secondary characters. The auction is far from a mercenary fundraiser, however: all proceeds won will be donated to a cancer relief foundation for children. Bidding as of this writing is up to over $2000 USD.