Xbox Live Arcade To Add Hexic 2, Ecco the Dolphin

Microsoft has revealed that this Wednesday's regular Xbox Live Arcade update will feature Carbonated Games' Hexic 2, as well as a port of Sega's 16-bit underwater adventure Ecco the Dolphin. No pricing for either title has yet been confirmed, though both games were announced last week as part of Microsoft's planned Summer release schedule for Xbox Live Arcade, which will also include games such as D3's Puzzle Quest and Jeff Minter's psychedelic Space Giraffe, Space Giraffe. Building upon the success of Carbonated's Alexey Pajitnov-designed pack-in puzzler, Hexic 2 will feature a number of new additions, including new special pieces, challenges, and additional formations. The sequel will also include a new head-to-head battle mode, allowing two players to compete against each other over Xbox Live. In addition, Sega's Ecco the Dolphin is also swimming to Xbox Live Arcade this Wednesday, adding an online leaderboard and enhanced graphics and sounds to the game's classic 16-bit gameplay. The title marks the latest of five previously announced classic titles from Sega confirmed for the online service. Sonic the Hedgehog and Golden Axe were both released over Xbox Live during E3 in July, with other titles, including Streets of Rage 2 and Sonic the Hedgehog 2 planned for release in the near future.