Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Interview: Trent Reznor]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/24/interview-trent-reznor/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/24/interview-trent-reznor/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/24/interview-trent-reznor/#comments
Wait. What? Trent Reznor? As in "Mr. I'll Give Away My Music," "Mr. Brutal Honesty," Mr. NINE INCH NAILS? What's he doing on Joystiq?

Prior to taking the concert stage this month, The Trent Reznor, along with NIN Creative Director Rob Sheridan, opened up to us about their gaming pasts, the direction they see the industry headed in, and whether or not Trent will have a role in shaping that future.

Continue reading for Joystiq's first-ever NINterview ...

Continue reading Interview: Trent Reznor

JoystiqInterview: Trent Reznor originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 Sep 2009 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>interviewninnine-inch-nailsninterviewrob-sheridantrent-reznorThu, 24 Sep 2009 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Interview: Trent Reznor (Page 2)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/24/interview-trent-reznor-page-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/24/interview-trent-reznor-page-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/24/interview-trent-reznor-page-2/#commentsWhat's your take on Microsoft and Sony entering the motion-controlled market?

Trent: Me and Rob are both big Nintendo fans for a number of reasons. Nintendo approaches gaming from a prospective where Super Mario Bros. is still a classic and doesn't look dated. Look at any game on the PlayStation 1 that tries to exceed past the terrible 3D graphics, with their look alike, sound alike franchise attempts.

With Nintendo, there's this kind of aesthetic that they bring to their in-house games that makes them feel like art. Where they aren't trying to be something else, where they have their own place and are just what they are. I've talked with Rob about this, about why that kind of game is cool, has a timelessness to it and isn't trying to be more than what it is. If I were going to make a video game today I would not put in rendered, 3D characters that try to look human. You know, where when they talk their lips are out of sync and have this weird aliased thing going on. There's that Shadow Complex game, which does looks cool. Every cut scene has the eyes rendered pretty well, but there's that terrible voice acting and the characters look like Fembots.

Rob: The characters usually look better stylized in a way where it lends itself to the media as opposed to trying to look like the latest 3D-animated movie, which can create things super-realistically. When it's done only half way ... well, it's just kind of weird.

Trent: How that applies to Nintendo, and I'm not saying they haven't fucked up a few times too, but they have this sense of here's this game, we're aware of the limitations, but we're going to make the game great with taste and integrity. Being honest, I'm not a huge fan of Sony. Their entire strategy behind the PlayStation is to focus on gaming as an experience last and getting a Blu-ray player in your living room comes first. Now, three years later they're trying to release a motion controller that's a little bit better than the Wii's.



You're aware you're flamebaiting Sony fanboys right now.

Trent. I don't care. I'm used to controversy. I make a living off of it. [Laughs.]

The point is, do I think motion controlled gaming is the next big thing? No. It's an interesting concept, it's cool to have, but it's an input thing where I don't think that's the future of gaming. The fact that the Wii came out and has been wildly successful is because they picked up on the thing I've been saying all along. They made something simple and fun. It's something that doesn't compete with "Halo: Whatever-The-Fuck," but is actually fun and can resonate with a bunch of people in a low brow way where they didn't focus on how many buttons they could pop into the controller.

Rob: Waving the Wiimote does get boring after a while, and after a bit you say, "Just give me a button!" So, when I see Microsoft's new motion controlled Natal and I see people play it, I say to myself, "Wow, that technology looks amazing, but how many people really want to stand there and flail about all the time?"

I'm used to controversy. I make a living off of it.
The nice thing about the Wii is that, if you want, you can sit back like a fat-ass and just barely wiggle your wrist to get the same gameplay effect. With all this motion-controlled stuff, there's nothing tangible anymore, you aren't touching anything, you aren't getting force feedback of any kind, and it all just seems like a tech demo. Something where you use it for a while, then go, "Just give me the controller back!"

Trent: The strength of motion controllers will be if there's a killer app that makes a person go, "Fuck yeah, all right!" That's always what it comes down to. I'm glad there's innovation in that field and maybe something great will come of it, but I'm not holding my breath that the technology will redefine gaming.

Rob: There's a difference between praising the Wii as an important step and saying that motion controls are the greatest thing in the world. What was great about the Wii is that it proved that they could do something that goes back to having just pure fun, that opens up the doors to people like my mom playing. This is something the fanboys cry about, "But who cares?" Those casual gamers aren't playing Halo, they aren't bothering you in your deathmatches. The Wii is just opening up the medium to so many more people using simple, pure fun. Something that original arcade games were all about. That doesn't mean it's the future necessarily, it just means that Nintendo found a tool to open the door to others and it could go a million different ways from there.

Trent: I remember the first time I played Wii Tennis, my immediate reaction was, "Whoa!" Then there's the sound coming out of your hand and I'm all, "How the fuck?" When you show it to your mom or to your friends who come over and you see their faces light up -- that's one of those whoa-moments. One of those moments when you hear a great song or watch a great movie and get chills. That can be attained.

Rob: The strength of the Wii isn't so much the motion controller it's that, regardless what it is, you can hand it over to your girlfriend. She'll go, "How do I play this?" You just show her, "Swing it, like this, see?" Two seconds later you're playing a heated game of tennis.


Are you fans of Rock Band or Guitar Hero?

Rob: I suck at those games. Pure and simple -- I just suck.

Trent: I dabble around in them and I actually think those games are fun. As a gamer, it's interesting, fun and surprisingly rewarding when you get it right. As a musician, who's watching the record industry look at these games as a type of salvation ... it's laughable. That's just desperate people in the record business thinking. "Man, we finally have a way to turn people onto music."

In a good way, a friend of mine who is my age, he has a couple kids under ten years old who now really like AC/DC and other classic music. Music they may not have discovered at their age. It's kind of fun to walk into Best Buy and hear people get excited about trying to play a Beck song and I don't think that's a bad thing. I'm kind of excited to see how they did on Beatles: Rock Band. I read about that in Wired, and it sounds like they did an A-list job in creating the depth of the experience.

How are your Rock Band skills?

Trent: I'm not bad, but to be honest with you, I haven't allowed myself go too deep down the path of perfection.

If I were to set up a rock-off, a game of Rock Band between you and a band like ... say, Coldplay. Who would win?

Trent: I don't know, but if it descended into physical violence, we'd probably win. Those guys strike me as having a lot of time on the bus tweaking or stringing some riffs together. [Laughs.]

I'll tell you one thing I can't do that just amazes me is watching the masters of the Dance Dance Revolution game while I was in Japan. I got to see some asian kid, where his feet are moving faster than I can see shit coming down the screen. That's amazing.

Will we be seeing anymore Nine Inch Nails DLC releases for Rock Band or Guitar Hero by year's end?

Trent: No.

Is there a reason?

Trent: I just really never thought about it. When Rock Band first came out there were a couple songs involved and they asked for more in a content pack. I just said pick some of the hardest material we have, like "The Perfect Drug," which has some difficult drums. Then I asked them to make it as hard as they could possibly make it. That led to me seeing a couple YouTube videos of people getting high scores and, well ... that's really it. I feel we did all we needed to do with it.


<< BACK COMMENT NEXT >>

JoystiqInterview: Trent Reznor (Page 2) originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 Sep 2009 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Thu, 24 Sep 2009 18:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Interview: Trent Reznor (Page 3)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/24/interview-trent-reznor-page-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/24/interview-trent-reznor-page-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/24/interview-trent-reznor-page-3/#commentsWhat do you think of the upcoming Rock Band Network? Will you support the service?

Trent: I think that's an interesting idea, but I'd have to think about it some more. Would I do it for Nine Inch Nails? No -- and I'll tell you why.

At the end of the day, I don't mind putting my song in a movie I like. Something like where JJ Abrams calls asking to use a song in "Fringe." I say, "I like what you do, I know it'll be used tastefully."

Music isn't a game, it's supposed to be an emotional kind of experience.
If someone hears it in that context, well, okay, that's cool. Again, at the end of the day, my concern is to write music and that's what it is. Music isn't a game, it's supposed to be an emotional kind of experience.

When I heard about Rock Band and was asked to put some music on it, I did that. Then I thought, what if, with our next record, we release it on Rock Band first? The entire album. But then I thought about it some more and decided no, because I don't want people remembering it that way. I want it to be an album, a piece of music and not a game. There's a balance there, but music should have its own place, because it is not just about how many people can get it in whatever form.

Activision released special band-specific Guitar Hero games, like Metallica and Aerosmith. Have you ever been approached about a NIN edition?

Trent: Not that I know of. I'm not saying this to be modest, but we aren't in the same demographic or audience size as those bands. NIN doesn't really fit that mold, because there is no guitar in a third of our songs and, to be honest with you, I wouldn't want to do that anyway.

If you had to pick one video game character to identify with, who would it be?

Trent: Umm, that's a tough one. [Long pause.]

I really can't think of shit right now. Rob, you got one, I know you do. You're thinking Samus, but she's a chick and you don't want to say that. [Laughs.]

It's that or Link.

Rob: Yeah, I'd go with Link, actually. That's a good one, because I was the loner kid who just wanted everyone to leave me alone so I could play Zelda. It's that lone person experience that kind of defined who I am.

Trent: Yeah and I can't think of anything.

What about Mario? You said you liked Nintendo.

Trent: No, he's too common. Too bourgeois.


Well, now that you're moving on from NIN, do you have any interest in putting your creative energy into video games? Whether it be development or creating a soundtrack for a game?

The idea of making a cool game ... now that's wildly exciting to me!
Trent: Yeah, again, Rob and I are working on a project together that's moving forward and focuses on the creation of content from a developer's perspective. Would I do music for an everyday game? Meh. I'm not thrilled about the idea, but if someone cool came to me and had this great game, then I'd consider it. Just like if a great director came to me and said, "I'm doing a film would you want to do the music?" I'd consider it.

That's not my dream job, to be honest with you. The idea of making a cool game or making a cool software platform, now that's wildly exciting to me! Content creation is where me and Rob are headed.

That's sort of a direct result of what we did with Year Zero, in terms of the ARG and presenting it. That was, from my perspective, the most rewarding creative experience, musical or not. Being able to take this world and present it to people in a creative way. It wasn't a game, it wasn't a website, it was kind of all those things in one. It was an experience where it was fun to use all the different kinds of mediums that are available now and, in the end, kind of creep into people's minds.

I like playing shows, and I can play shows. I've played big shows and I've played shitty shows. I've played where people show up and played where people don't show. But what excites me is working on stuff like the Year Zero project more than my current thing. I could keep doing shows. I'm pretty good at it, but I want to fucking start something that I might suck at and try that. You know, to see what it's like to suck for once.


<< BACK COMMENT

JoystiqInterview: Trent Reznor (Page 3) originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 Sep 2009 18:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Thu, 24 Sep 2009 18:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Joyswag: Halo Wars Mega Bloks [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/19/joyswag-halo-wars-mega-bloks/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/19/joyswag-halo-wars-mega-bloks/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/19/joyswag-halo-wars-mega-bloks/#commentsUpdate: This giveaway is now closed. Winners are being notified, so be sure to check your email including your junk mail.

The generous builders over at Mega Bloks were kind enough to send over a few cases of the company's recently launched Halo Wars brick collection. Seeing as we aren't the greedy types, we decided to share our Blok bounty by holding one of our famous Joyswag giveaways.

Up for grabs are five complete sets of the entire Halo Wars Mega Bloks collection. Those lucky enough to win will receive enough bricks to build a spectacular Halo display that could rival the legendary Halo 3 Believe diorama. If that level of awesome is achieved: pics or it didn't happen.
  • Leave a comment telling us what your favorite vehicle is from the Halo universe.
  • You must be 18 years or older and a resident of the US or Canada (excluding Quebec)
  • Limit 1 entry per person
  • This entry period ends at 1:00PM ET on Thursday, August 20
  • At that time, we'll randomly select five winners to receive a Halo Wars Mega Bloks bundle that includes: Aerial Ambush, UNSC Scorpion, UNSC Warthog, UNSC Hornet, UNSC Turret and Covenant Ghost ($129.94 ARV)
  • For a list of complete rules, click here

JoystiqJoyswag: Halo Wars Mega Bloks [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 Aug 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>halo-warsjoyswagmega-bloksWed, 19 Aug 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Swag Saturday: Gears of War Jacinto's Remnant [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/15/swag-saturday-gears-of-war-jacintos-remnant/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/15/swag-saturday-gears-of-war-jacintos-remnant/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/15/swag-saturday-gears-of-war-jacintos-remnant/#commentsUpdate: Entry into this giveaway is now closed. Winners are being notified via email, so be sure to check your inbox and your junk mail.

Today is the day that comes after Friday, which means one thing here at Joystiq: another fun filled (and librarian approved) Swag Saturday!

This week, we're giving away ten copies of the recently released Gears of War Jacinto's Remnant novel. While we can't be sure how entertaining the copy reads, we are certain that the novel's Marcus Fenix artwork oozes badass. He has an intimidating glare that can both kill his enemies and make women weak in their tree limb-sized knees. (Get a room, you two! -Ed.)
  • Leave a comment telling us who your favorite character is within' the Gears of War universe.
  • You must be 18 years or older and a resident of the US or Canada, excluding Quebec.(Nous sommes désolés, Québecois!)
  • Limit 1 entry per person.
  • This entry period ends at 3:31 pm ET on Sunday, August 16. We'll randomly select ten winners at that time to receive: one copy of Gears of War Jacinto's Remnant (ARV $15).
  • For a list of complete rules, click here

JoystiqSwag Saturday: Gears of War Jacinto's Remnant [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 15 Aug 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epicepic-gamesgears-of-war-2jacintos-remnantjoyswagswag-saturdaySat, 15 Aug 2009 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Avatar Marketplace - All Items]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/12/avatar-marketplace-all-items/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/12/avatar-marketplace-all-items/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/12/avatar-marketplace-all-items/#commentsTops | Headwear | Dress Up | Glasses | Bottoms
Shoes | Props | Gloves | Rings | Wristwear | Earrings


Tops
 Headwear
Dress Up
Glasses
Bottoms
Shoes
Props
Gloves
Rings
Wristwear
Earrings

JoystiqAvatar Marketplace - All Items originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Aug 2009 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Wed, 12 Aug 2009 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Let's go shopping in the Avatar Marketplace!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/12/lets-go-shopping-in-the-avatar-marketplace/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/12/lets-go-shopping-in-the-avatar-marketplace/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/12/lets-go-shopping-in-the-avatar-marketplace/#comments You'll find screenshots of every single item that's purchasable via the newly launched Avatar Marketplace conveniently placed in a few galleries below. Not only did we diligently snap photos of each and every item, but we also catalogued each item's name and pricing information and even put together a text-based list of all collected information. We were bored, okay?

Feel free to browse the virtual clothes racks, take a gander through our hand-picked 20 Most Interesting Avatar Items and (if you're daring) navigate through photos of all 190 Avatar items. Fun fact: if you were to purchase every single item available, the total damage would amount to about 17,680 24,720 or roughly $309. [Update: We've added an additional 58 female-only Avatar items to both our screenshot and text-based catalogs.]

Gallery: Avatar Marketplace - All Items

Black Lace-Up Boots - 80 MSPBandit Boots - 160 MSPBelize High Top Sneakers - 160 MSPTweed Jodphur Pants - 80 MSPLeather Pants and Belt Combo - 160 MSP

JoystiqLet's go shopping in the Avatar Marketplace! originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Aug 2009 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avataravatar-marketplaceavatarsxbox-liveWed, 12 Aug 2009 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Joyswag: Gears of War 2 'Dark Corners' DLC [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/29/joyswag-gears-of-war-2-dark-corners-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/29/joyswag-gears-of-war-2-dark-corners-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/29/joyswag-gears-of-war-2-dark-corners-dlc/#comments
Update: This giveaway is now closed. Winners are being selected and will be notified via email. So, be sure to check your inbox.

Gears of War 2 just received fresh downloadable content this week with the release of the Dark Corners expansion and we're on a mission to share the DLC love. So, that's exactly what we're doing by giving away five copies of Dark Corners -- complete with its seven new multiplayer maps and Road to Ruin deleted chapter -- to five lucky readers. Be sure to enter the giveaway and we'll be sure to randomly select the winners in time to benefit from this week's double XP event.
  • Leave a comment telling us which of the new Dark Corners maps you're most excited for.
  • You must be 18 years or older and a resident of the US or Canada (excluding Quebec)
  • Limit 1 entry per person
  • This entry period ends at 11:00PM ET on Wednesday, July 29
  • At that time, we'll randomly select five winners to receive an Xbox Live redemption code for Gears of War 2 Dark Corners ($15 ARV)
  • For a list of complete rules, click here

Gallery: Gears of War 2 'All Fronts'

JoystiqJoyswag: Gears of War 2 'Dark Corners' DLC [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Jul 2009 13:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-frontsdark-cornersepicepic-gamesgears-of-war-2joyswagWed, 29 Jul 2009 13:07:00 EST<![CDATA[The 360's new (and improved) Netflix experience]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/24/the-360s-new-and-improved-netflix-experience/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/24/the-360s-new-and-improved-netflix-experience/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/24/the-360s-new-and-improved-netflix-experience/#commentsCome August 11th, Xbox Live gold members will be treated to a new and improved Netflix, something we're calling the "New Netflix Experience". Catchy, no? Click through the gallery to learn more about the new features including movie parties, privacy settings and the ability for Avatars to express love, hate and laughter.

Gallery: New Netflix Experience

New Netflix ExperienceMovie PrivacyNetflix PartiesSome Titles Not Party FriendlyParty Loading

JoystiqThe 360's new (and improved) Netflix experience originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Jul 2009 15:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dashboard-updatenetflixFri, 24 Jul 2009 15:43:00 EST<![CDATA[A fashionable look at the new Avatar Marketplace]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/24/a-fashionable-look-at-the-new-avatar-marketplace/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/24/a-fashionable-look-at-the-new-avatar-marketplace/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/24/a-fashionable-look-at-the-new-avatar-marketplace/#commentsSeeing as we just got our mitts on the new Xbox 360 dashboard, we figured we'd share the dash love with a preview of the upcoming Avatar Marketplace. Click through the gallery to experience Avatar shopping, view the stylish pirate apparel and, if you're daring enough, take a peek after the break for a look at Avatar cotton swabbing. Yes ... cotton swabbing.

Gallery: Avatar Marketplace Preview

Avatar Marketplace EntranceStorefrontHalo 3 StorefrontGame StylesMonkey Island: SE Storefront

Continue reading A fashionable look at the new Avatar Marketplace

JoystiqA fashionable look at the new Avatar Marketplace originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Jul 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatar-marketplaceavatarsdashboard-updatexbox-360Fri, 24 Jul 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Joyswag: Rare Alan Wake goodies from E3 [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/11/joyswag-rare-alan-wake-goodies-from-e3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/11/joyswag-rare-alan-wake-goodies-from-e3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/11/joyswag-rare-alan-wake-goodies-from-e3/#commentsUpdate: Congratulations to Joyswag winner heyo007! Sweet dreams ...

After emptying our pockets post-E3, we came across some nifty Alan Wake swag that was tucked away in the side pockets of our carpenter jeans. And, in Joystiq tradition, we're giving it all away to one lucky reader.

Up for grabs is an exclusive (and quite rare) Alan Wake E3 faceplate that's numbered 477 out of 500 and an attractive Alan Wake t-shirt (sized XL, of course). If you think about it, the swag pairing makes logical sense: the faceplate covers your Xbox 360 and the tee covers your buff, naked self.
  • To enter, leave a comment telling us about your most recent nightmare.
  • You must be 18 years or older and a resident of the US or Canada (excluding Quebec).
  • Limit 1 entry per person.
  • This entry period ends at 11:59 pm ET on Thursday, June 11.
  • At that time, we'll randomly select 1 winner to receive a Alan Wake E3 faceplate and t-shirt (ARV: $50). Please check your email!
  • For a list of complete rules, click here

JoystiqJoyswag: Rare Alan Wake goodies from E3 [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Jun 2009 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alan-wakee3-2009joyswagThu, 11 Jun 2009 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Seen@E3: TMNT pose for E3 photo op]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/06/tmnt-make-surprise-e3-appearance-pose-for-photo-op/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/06/tmnt-make-surprise-e3-appearance-pose-for-photo-op/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/06/tmnt-make-surprise-e3-appearance-pose-for-photo-op/#commentsEager to promote their upcoming Wii title TMNT: Smash-Up, today, Leonardo, Donatello, Raphael and Michelangelo made a special appearance at Ubisoft's E3 booth. The reason? A photo op, of course. They probably figured they'd swing by the convention to help spread the way of the ninja, meet with their fans and try to get into as many tabloids as possible. Turtle power!

JoystiqSeen@E3: TMNT pose for E3 photo op originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 06 Jun 2009 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>seen-at-e3teenage-mutant-ninja-turtlestmnttmnt-smash-upubisoftSat, 06 Jun 2009 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[45 Second Booth Tour: EA]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/06/45-second-booth-tour-ea/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/06/45-second-booth-tour-ea/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/06/45-second-booth-tour-ea/#commentsContinuing our 45 Second Booth Tour coverage, here's a quick looksy at EA's E3 2009 booth, which features plenty of game stations, a few helpful EA reps and hundreds of feet of wrap around video screen. Click and enjoy your 45 second booth tour.

Joystiq45 Second Booth Tour: EA originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 06 Jun 2009 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>45-second-toure3-2009eaSat, 06 Jun 2009 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[45 Second Booth Tour: Microsoft]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/06/45-second-booth-tour-microsoft/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/06/45-second-booth-tour-microsoft/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/06/45-second-booth-tour-microsoft/#comments We're privileged enough to get the chance to walk around and view the numerous multi-million dollar E3 booths, so we figured we'd share the experience. Albeit, condensed into 45 seconds. View Microsoft's E3 booth in the 45 Second Booth Tour vid that's embedded above and click through the photos below. If you can spot Cliff Bleszinski, we award you a (virtual) scrumptious brownie.

Joystiq45 Second Booth Tour: Microsoft originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 06 Jun 2009 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>45-second-toure3-2009microsoftxbox-360Sat, 06 Jun 2009 17:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Joyswag: Fable 2 'See the Future' DLC [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/11/joyswag-fable-2-see-the-future-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/11/joyswag-fable-2-see-the-future-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/11/joyswag-fable-2-see-the-future-dlc/#commentsUpdate: Entry into this giveaway is now closed. Winners have been selected and notified via electronic mail. Check your inbox to see if you won.

Hopefully, you foresee good luck in your future, because we're awarding 25 random readers new Fable 2 downloadable content. That's right, to celebrate this Tuesday's release of the Fable 2 "See the Future" expansion, we're holding a giveaway. Simply follow the instructions below and, in no time at all, you may be wandering around Albion with a new Dalmatian dog and an extra 250 Gamerscore, free of charge.
  • Leave a comment telling us what you see in your future five years from now
  • You must be 18 years or older and a resident of the US or Canada (excluding Quebec)
  • Limit 1 entry per person
  • This entry period ends at 2:00 pm ET on Tuesday, May 12.
  • At that time, we'll randomly select 25 winners to receive a redemption code for Fable 2 "See the Future" (ARV: $7). Please check your email!
  • For a list of complete rules, click here

Gallery: Fable II: See the Future

JoystiqJoyswag: Fable 2 'See the Future' DLC [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 May 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fable-2fable-2-dlcfable-2-see-the-futurejoyswagsee-the-futureMon, 11 May 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: First look at Fallout 3's The Pitt]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/15/video-first-look-at-fallout-3s-the-pitt/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/15/video-first-look-at-fallout-3s-the-pitt/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/15/video-first-look-at-fallout-3s-the-pitt/#commentsScreenshots can only show so much, which is why we recommend, no, insist watching GameTrailers' recently released Fallout 3 The Pitt DLC trailer. Look for it embedded after the break.

As expected, The Pitt presents a dangerous, dirty and rugged atmosphere where steel construction is the norm and scaffolding wraps around buildings like an artificial highway. It's The Pitt, it's releasing March 24 and it's your duty as a fan to watch the first trailer.

Continue reading Video: First look at Fallout 3's The Pitt

JoystiqVideo: First look at Fallout 3's The Pitt originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 15 Mar 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bethesdabethesda-softworksfallout-3rpgthe-pittSun, 15 Mar 2009 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Burnout Paradise: The Ultimate Box speeds onto Steam]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/13/burnout-paradise-the-ultimate-box-speeds-onto-steam/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/13/burnout-paradise-the-ultimate-box-speeds-onto-steam/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/13/burnout-paradise-the-ultimate-box-speeds-onto-steam/#comments
As foretold by the all-knowing prophet Criterion, Burnout Paradise: The Ultimate Box is now available for purchase on Steam for $39.99. The Ultimate Box includes the full version of Burnout Paradise and all of its free updates, including the Cagney and Bike content, plus the premium Party Pack (sadly, Legendary Cars and newer DLC are not included). As a special bonus, only applicable to this downloadable version, none of the excessive packaging or nasty shrink wrap is included. We can already feel the environment's warming approval.

JoystiqBurnout Paradise: The Ultimate Box speeds onto Steam originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Mar 2009 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>burnout-paradiseburnout-paradise-the-ultimate-boxcriterioncriterion-gameseasteamthe-ultimate-boxFri, 13 Mar 2009 14:58:00 EST<![CDATA[This Wednesday: Peggle, Crystal Defenders & NCAA Basketball MME [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/09/this-wednesday-peggle-and-crystal-defenders-join-xbla/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/09/this-wednesday-peggle-and-crystal-defenders-join-xbla/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/09/this-wednesday-peggle-and-crystal-defenders-join-xbla/#commentsPopCap Games' alarmingly addictive Peggle and Square Enix's Crystal Defenders will both be releasing to the Xbox Live Arcade this Wednesday, March 11 for 800 ($10) each. That is, if Major Nelson and his podcasting co-host, e, can be trusted (we think so!).

This week's Peggle release isn't all that surprising, seeing that a recent press release confirmed a March release, but hearing that Crystal Defenders will complete this Wednesday's XBLA twofer, well ... that's just out of left field. Not that we're complaining or anything, we're just overjoyed that Bjorn will be giving our 360 an incurable case of "Extreme Fever."

Update: NCAA Basketball MME is out too! (No demo available.)

[Thanks, Liam G.]

JoystiqThis Wednesday: Peggle, Crystal Defenders & NCAA Basketball MME [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Mar 2009 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-defendersncaa-basketball-09-march-madnessncaa-basketball-mmepegglepopcappopcap-gamessquare-enixtosexblaxblawednesdayMon, 09 Mar 2009 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Steam gets us all gooey, sells World of Goo for $5]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/steam-gets-us-all-gooey-sells-world-of-goo-for-5/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/steam-gets-us-all-gooey-sells-world-of-goo-for-5/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/steam-gets-us-all-gooey-sells-world-of-goo-for-5/#commentsAll weekend long, Steam is selling 2D Boy's critically acclaimed (and Joystiq-approved) World of Goo for $5, which is 75% off the normal going rate. Knowing that, anyone connected to Steam should, at the very minimum, give the demo a test drive.

Truthfully, we can say that World of Goo offers at least $5 in sticky, sticky fun. For that price, there's really no way one could justify Goo piracy.

Gallery: World of Goo

JoystiqSteam gets us all gooey, sells World of Goo for $5 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Mar 2009 20:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2d-boysteamworld-of-gooFri, 06 Mar 2009 20:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Xbox Elite being phased out, assuming 'limited edition' retail role]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/rumor-xbox-elite-being-phased-out-assuming-limited-edition-re/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/rumor-xbox-elite-being-phased-out-assuming-limited-edition-re/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/rumor-xbox-elite-being-phased-out-assuming-limited-edition-re/#commentsAccording to Fudzilla, Microsoft will be ending the mass availability of the Xbox 360 Elite in many parts of the world and plans on positioning it as a more "limited edition" console, as was originally intended.

Supposedly, retailers are less supportive of the higher-priced Elite consoles during these craptacular economic times, because their consumer demand is lower than the Arcade and Pro. As a result, Microsoft may be limiting the console's sales to select retailers in North America and Europe and stop taking Elite orders in other territories sometime during Q2.

The rumored Elite phase-out would allow it to be marketed as a "limited edition" offering, giving MS the option to sell specially themed (and possibly higher priced) Elite bundles when triple-A titles need promotion. (Think the Resident Evil 5 Elite bundle.) Fudzilla also mentions that Microsoft wants to expand the 360's storage capabilities by releasing a standalone drive that's larger than the Elite's current 120GB model.

JoystiqRumor: Xbox Elite being phased out, assuming 'limited edition' retail role originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Mar 2009 14:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>elitemicrosoftrumorxbox-360xbox-360-eliteFri, 06 Mar 2009 14:54:00 EST<![CDATA[EA sees success in Dead Space and Mirror's Edge ... after a 'lifetime performance']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/ea-sees-success-in-dead-space-and-mirrors-edge-after-a-lif/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/ea-sees-success-in-dead-space-and-mirrors-edge-after-a-lif/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/ea-sees-success-in-dead-space-and-mirrors-edge-after-a-lif/#commentsEA's European Senior VP Patrick Söderlund has expressed optimism about the long-term success of new IPs Dead Space and Mirror's Edge in a conversation with Gamasutra. "If you analyze games like Dead Space and Mirror's Edge for their lifetime performance, I bet you'll find them to be seen as successful," said Söderlund, communicating a commitment to both franchises.

Söderlund went on to echo Glen Schofield's remarks regarding the not-too-brilliant plan of releasing both titles during the extremely competitive holiday season, admitting that EA could have "done a better job" scheduling its release calendar. Still, EA seems determined to forge ahead with both franchises in tow. We have a hunch gamers will support that decision -- so long as Dead Space doesn't turn into this and Mirror's Edge into that.

[Via guardian.co.uk]

JoystiqEA sees success in Dead Space and Mirror's Edge ... after a 'lifetime performance' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Mar 2009 13:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-spacediceeamirrors-edgeredwood-shoressurvival-horrorFri, 06 Mar 2009 13:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Rock Band Weekly: Offspring, REM & Richard Thompson]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/rock-band-weekly-offspring-r-e-m-and-richard-thompson/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/rock-band-weekly-offspring-r-e-m-and-richard-thompson/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/rock-band-weekly-offspring-r-e-m-and-richard-thompson/#commentsEven though the children aren't going to be okay and we've lost our religion, next week's Rock Band DLC will make everything seem tolerable. It's because two songs from The Offspring and a single song sample from both R.E.M. and Richard Thompson will all be available for purchase next week. Hopefully, that's all that you want.

Individual Songs
  • "All I Want" by The Offspring (160 / $2)
  • "The Kids Aren't Alright" by The Offspring (160 / $2)
  • "Losing My Religion" by R.E.M. (160 / $2)
  • "The Way That It Shows" by Richard Thompson (160 / $2)
All songs are master recordings and will be available for purchase next Tuesday and Thursday for Xbox 360 and PS3, respectively. Music videos after the break.

Continue reading Rock Band Weekly: Offspring, REM & Richard Thompson

JoystiqRock Band Weekly: Offspring, REM & Richard Thompson originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Mar 2009 12:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaharmonixmtv-gamesrock-bandrock-band-2rock-band-weeklyFri, 06 Mar 2009 12:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Guitar Hero exclusive: Rise Against's 'Death Blossoms']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/guitar-hero-exclusive-rise-againsts-death-blossoms/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/guitar-hero-exclusive-rise-againsts-death-blossoms/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/guitar-hero-exclusive-rise-againsts-death-blossoms/#commentsPunk rock band Rise Against will exclusively debut its previously unreleased track "Death Blossoms" as Guitar Hero World Tour downloadable content.

The new song, along with the band's "Audience of One" and "Ready to Fall" tracks, will be released on both XBLM and PSN on March 12 as the Rise Against Track Pack (440 / $5.49). Each track will also be available as an individual download for 160 / $2.

We're told the band's lead singer, Tim McIlrath, will log onto Xbox Live on March 14 (Gamertag: GHRiseAgainst1) to participate in a Br-br-br-brush "Game with Fame" session, allowing would-be wailers to participate in a karaoke-style showdown with the singer. Mind the coffee table!

JoystiqGuitar Hero exclusive: Rise Against's 'Death Blossoms' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Mar 2009 11:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisiondlcguitar-heroguitar-hero-world-tourmusicneversoftrise-againstworld-tourFri, 06 Mar 2009 11:10:00 EST<![CDATA[GameStop stock drops 13% following Amazon trade-in program announcement]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/05/gamestop-stock-drops-13-following-amazon-trade-in-program-annou/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/05/gamestop-stock-drops-13-following-amazon-trade-in-program-annou/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/05/gamestop-stock-drops-13-following-amazon-trade-in-program-annou/#commentsEven though GameStop's CEO is confident that Amazon.com's plan to enter the used video game market won't be successful, it appears GameStop investors aren't as optimistic. Shares of the company dove 13% on Thursday, ending the trading day $3.54 lower.

Variety reports that Amazon.com's used game ambitions (and to a much lesser extent, Toys 'R' Us' plans) worried investors today, causing a huge GameStop stock sell-off. Used game sales account for 44% of GameStop's gross profit and having Amazon as a competitor in one of its most lucrative operations just doesn't bode well for its stock price. As far as we're concerned, competition among businesses is always good.

Shares of Amazon stock seem to be unaffected by today's news.

JoystiqGameStop stock drops 13% following Amazon trade-in program announcement originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Mar 2009 20:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonamazon.comgamestoptrade-inThu, 05 Mar 2009 20:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Stormrise only supports DirectX 10, is Vista-exclusive]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/04/stormrise-only-supports-directx-10-is-vista-exclusive/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/04/stormrise-only-supports-directx-10-is-vista-exclusive/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/04/stormrise-only-supports-directx-10-is-vista-exclusive/#commentsIt's now confirmed that The Creative Assembly's upcoming RTS title, Stormrise, will only support DirectX 10 on the PC, thus making it exclusive to Windows Vista by default.

In an interview with PC Games Hardware, Stormrise lead designer Artem Kulakov confirms the title's DX10 support, making it the first (and possibly only) Vista-exclusive game (Update: Uh, except for all those other ones). According to Kulakov, the reason for only supporting DX10 is to make it easier to port to console platforms and to give the developer an "opportunity to increase performance and improve visual quality."

While we aren't experts in the field of how to launch a new franchise, we suspect that limiting the potential user base to only those with Vista (and without some hacking skillz) seems counterproductive to the goal of making a profit.

[Via Big Download]

JoystiqStormrise only supports DirectX 10, is Vista-exclusive originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Mar 2009 21:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dx10rtssegastormrisethe-creative-assemblyvistawindows-vistaWed, 04 Mar 2009 21:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Ubisoft cans World in Conflict's console release plans]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/03/ubisoft-cans-world-in-conflicts-console-release-plans/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/03/ubisoft-cans-world-in-conflicts-console-release-plans/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/03/ubisoft-cans-world-in-conflicts-console-release-plans/#commentsUbisoft has informed IGN that it has no plans to release World in Conflict: Soviet Assault to any console platform this month or anytime in the future. The PC version remains unaffected and will see a release later this month.

Soviet Assault's Xbox 360 and PS3 cancellation may be surprising for some, but for us, we questioned the project's console plans as of late. After the big Vivendi / Activision merger, Massive Entertainment's recent history and Soviet Assault's early delay, we knew something was up. We call it "game-cancellation-intuition." Not very catchy, we know.

JoystiqUbisoft cans World in Conflict's console release plans originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Mar 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>massive-entertainmentsoviet-assaultubisoftworld-in-conflictworld-in-conflict-soviet-assaultTue, 03 Mar 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo Wars includes final farewell from Ensemble Studios]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/03/halo-wars-includes-final-farewell-from-ensemble-studios/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/03/halo-wars-includes-final-farewell-from-ensemble-studios/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/03/halo-wars-includes-final-farewell-from-ensemble-studios/#commentsWith today's (North American) release of Halo Wars, we thought we'd share Ensemble Studios' heartfelt goodbye message included in the game's end credits. The video, which shares the same sentimental weight as Bruce Shelley's final remarks, starts with a message to all of Ensemble's fans and is followed by individual notes from everyone on the development team.

We wish the best of luck to everyone who was a part of the team at Ensemble Studios and hope success follows with their new ventures.

JoystiqHalo Wars includes final farewell from Ensemble Studios originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Mar 2009 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ensembleensemble-studioshalohalo-warsrtsTue, 03 Mar 2009 13:29:00 EST<![CDATA[World Tour adds Queen, Hendrix and European DLC in March]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/03/world-tour-adds-queen-hendrix-and-european-dlc-in-march/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/03/world-tour-adds-queen-hendrix-and-european-dlc-in-march/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/03/world-tour-adds-queen-hendrix-and-european-dlc-in-march/#commentsActivision decided today was the opportune date to announce all of the upcoming Guitar Hero World Tour downloadable content to be released in the month of March.

Musical goodness from Queen, Jimi Hendrix and a handful of European bands will be bicycle racing to the XBLM and PSN this month, including three songs from Vanilla Sky, Rasmus and Les Rita Mitsouko that'll be available this Thursday.

A complete listing of all the upcoming World Tour DLC can be viewed after the break, but be warned that some may find the release of both Queen and Hendrix songs in one month to be too overwhelming. For those music enthusiasts, we recommend taking a seat before continuing.

Continue reading World Tour adds Queen, Hendrix and European DLC in March

JoystiqWorld Tour adds Queen, Hendrix and European DLC in March originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Mar 2009 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisiondlcguitar-heroguitar-hero-world-tourneversoftpsnworld-tourxblmTue, 03 Mar 2009 12:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Moar Graffix! Vicious Engine 2 announced]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/03/moar-graffix-vicious-engine-2-announced/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/03/moar-graffix-vicious-engine-2-announced/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/03/moar-graffix-vicious-engine-2-announced/#commentsThe somewhat popular Vicious Engine (primarily a PSP and Wii development tool set) will be giving up its spotlight soon, with the announcement of the much newer and powerful Vicious Engine 2.

Vicious Cycle Software revealed the Vicious Engine 2 will make its debut at this month's Game Developer Conference and is targeting next-gen consoles. Vicious promises their updated engine will allow for development on the PC, PS3 and Xbox 360 simultaneously, which not only speeds up the dev cycle, but also makes the entire process cheaper. (That deserves a manly Tim Taylor grunt.)

Will this new Vicious Engine make developers forget about the omnipresent Unreal Engine 3 or the crazy-powerful Crytek Engine? Highly doubtful, but who knows. We could be surprised at GDC with a hefty helping of graphical beauty and devs turned into true believers.

[Via Big Download]

JoystiqMoar Graffix! Vicious Engine 2 announced originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Mar 2009 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>enginevicious-cyclevicious-cycle-softwarevicious-enginevicious-engine-2Tue, 03 Mar 2009 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Steam weekend special: Lost Planet for $5]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/27/steam-weekend-special-lost-planet-for-5/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/27/steam-weekend-special-lost-planet-for-5/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/27/steam-weekend-special-lost-planet-for-5/#commentsAll weekend long, Steam'ers can grab a digital copy of Capcom's Lost Planet: Extreme Condition for the low price of $5. That's something like 75% off the retail price and is the best $5 purchase one could make in preparation for Lost Planet 2. It's either that or a discounted pair of snow mittens. (Though mittens are much less entertaining.)

Steam's special Lost Planet offer will only be available through Monday, so make a prompt purchase decision ... or be left out in the cold.

[Via Capcom Blog]

JoystiqSteam weekend special: Lost Planet for $5 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Feb 2009 19:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomdealdealslost-planetlost-planet-extreme-conditionsteamFri, 27 Feb 2009 19:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Bob Seger DLC rocks World Tour, online tournament announced]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/27/bob-seger-dlc-rocks-world-tour-online-tournament-announced/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/27/bob-seger-dlc-rocks-world-tour-online-tournament-announced/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/27/bob-seger-dlc-rocks-world-tour-online-tournament-announced/#commentsToday, Activision announced a special Guitar Hero World Tour The Vault DLC Tournament in promotional celebration of the just release Robert Bob Seger Track Pack.

The online tournament allows both guitarists and bassists of all skill levels to participate, but this World Tour tourney requires your paid DLC admission. To have a chance at winning prizes including a Fender guitar autographed by Seger, entrants are required to purchase the new Bob Seger DLC.

Tournament information can be viewed over at the official Guitar Hero website. Today's new Bob Seger tracks are conveniently listed below.

Bob Seger Track Pack (440 / $5.49)
  • "Old Time Rock and Roll" by Bob Seger (160 / $2)
  • "Her Strut" by Bob Seger (160 / $2)
  • "Get Out of Denver (LIVE)" by Bob Seger (160 / $2)

JoystiqBob Seger DLC rocks World Tour, online tournament announced originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Feb 2009 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionbob-segerguitar-heroguitar-hero-world-tourpsnxblmFri, 27 Feb 2009 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Second round of LOTR: Conquest DLC will cost you]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/26/second-round-of-lotr-conquest-dlc-will-cost-you/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/26/second-round-of-lotr-conquest-dlc-will-cost-you/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/26/second-round-of-lotr-conquest-dlc-will-cost-you/#commentsAfter releasing the first batch of content for free, EA will be going the paid route and deliver a second set of Lord of the Rings: Conquest DLC this Thursday, February 26, to the XBLM and PSN for 800 and $10, respectively.

The "precious" Conquest downloadable content will add three additional characters (including the freakish Gothmog), two new maps and two fancy arenas. But for a game that didn't fair too well in reviews, is $10 worth of downloadable content all that exciting? We doubt Elijah 'would' approve.

JoystiqSecond round of LOTR: Conquest DLC will cost you originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Feb 2009 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ealord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-conquestlotr-conquestpandemic-studiospsnxblmThu, 26 Feb 2009 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft: Christmas 360 sales up 120% in Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/25/microsoft-christmas-360-sales-up-120-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/25/microsoft-christmas-360-sales-up-120-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/25/microsoft-christmas-360-sales-up-120-in-europe/#commentsPleased with its performance over the holidays, Microsoft has revealed that European Xbox 360 sales during Christmas '08 were 120% higher than the same period in '07.

"Christmas 2008 was the biggest sales period in the history of the Xbox brand," said Microsoft's VP of Interactive Entertainment Business in EMEA. "Sales of the console were more than double over the period a year before, in excess of 120 per cent in fact."

Nothing too surprising, seeing that NPD numbers showed strong 360 sales in December and considering the fact that, this past autumn, Microsoft lowered hardware prices in Europe. It'll be interesting to see how the console market plays out in 2009, especially with rumors of a PlayStation 3 price cut and the potential market shift that could result.

JoystiqMicrosoft: Christmas 360 sales up 120% in Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Feb 2009 19:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europeeuropeanmicrosoftsalesxbox-360Wed, 25 Feb 2009 19:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Midnight Club: LA South Central DLC gets March release]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/25/midnight-club-la-south-central-dlc-gets-march-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/25/midnight-club-la-south-central-dlc-gets-march-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/25/midnight-club-la-south-central-dlc-gets-march-release/#commentsThursday, March 12 is the date Midnight Club: LA gamers can expect the official release (not to be confused with the unofficial release) of the long awaited South Central DLC.

The South Central content will be available in two carbon dioxide emitting packs; one that's free and another that's paid. The free South Central Map Expansion enlarges the city 33% by adding four new neighborhoods and allows cross-play between those with the Premium content. The 800 ($10) South Central Premium Upgrade pack is full of goodies, including nine new vehicles, 26 additional races, 12 battle maps, ten delivery missions, 100+ red light races, new music and various car customization options. Looks like someone is trying to keep up with the Joneses.

Gallery: Midnight Club: LA - South Central Expansion

JoystiqMidnight Club: LA South Central DLC gets March release originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Feb 2009 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>midnight-club-lamidnight-club-los-angelesrockstarrockstar-gamessouth-central-expansiontake-twoWed, 25 Feb 2009 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Left 4 Dead receives massive patch on Xbox 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/24/left-4-dead-receives-massive-patch-on-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/24/left-4-dead-receives-massive-patch-on-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/24/left-4-dead-receives-massive-patch-on-360/#commentsValve just informed us that a patch has been released for the Xbox 360 version of Left 4 Dead, just in time for the soon-to-be-released downloadable content.

The patch, applied via a mandatory title update over Xbox Live, fixes a bunch of bugs, attempts to balance online gameplay and generally improves the Left 4 Dead experience. View the entire list of changes after the break.

(Oh, PSA: Be sure to take extra care staying away from Tanks. We don't remember asking for reduced auto-shotgun damage against them.)

Continue reading Left 4 Dead receives massive patch on Xbox 360

JoystiqLeft 4 Dead receives massive patch on Xbox 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Feb 2009 15:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fpsleft-4-deadvalvevalve-softwareTue, 24 Feb 2009 15:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Joyswag: Halo 3 Mythic Map Pack]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/23/joyswag-halo-3-mythic-map-pack/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/23/joyswag-halo-3-mythic-map-pack/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/23/joyswag-halo-3-mythic-map-pack/#commentsUpdate. This giveaway is now closed. Winners have been chosen and were notified via email. As always, thanks for entering!

Here's a chance to win the Halo 3 Mythic Map Pack before anyone else! The general public will get its first opportunity next week, when the maps are released as a Halo Wars CE bonus. For those passing up Halo Wars, the maps won't be be available for download until later this spring. That's a long wait ... when you could be playing tomorrow!

Joystiq is giving away 25 Mythic redemption codes, and all you have to do to win is follow the instructions below -- and of course, get lucky in our random drawing. To enter:
  • Leave a comment telling us which Mythic map you're most looking forward to (Sandbox, Assembly or Orbital)
  • You must be 18 years or older and a resident of the US or Canada (excluding Quebec)
  • Limit 1 entry per person
  • This entry period ends at 4:00 pm ET on Tuesday, February 24. We'll randomly select 25 winners at that time to receive: one (each) Halo 3 Mythic Map Pack redemption code (ARV $10)
  • Click here for full official rules
While waiting for the winners to be announced, be sure to check out our comprehensive Mythic Map Pack coverage!

JoystiqJoyswag: Halo 3 Mythic Map Pack originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Feb 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>halo-3joyswagmythic-map-packMon, 23 Feb 2009 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[This Wednesday: Exit 2 enters XBLA]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/23/this-wednesday-exit-2-enters-xbla/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/23/this-wednesday-exit-2-enters-xbla/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/23/this-wednesday-exit-2-enters-xbla/#comments
This Wednesday's Xbox Live Arcade release is Taito's action platformer Exit 2, which (according to Xbox.com) was initially expected to release last week. Exit 2 will be available for purchase from the Xbox Live Marketplace for 800 ($10) and comes packed with 240 stages, ten challenges and an extremely '80s-inspired neon pink logo.

Gallery: Exit 2 (XBLA)

JoystiqThis Wednesday: Exit 2 enters XBLA originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Feb 2009 13:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>exitexit-2taitoxblaxblawednesdayMon, 23 Feb 2009 13:47:00 EST<![CDATA[New Alan Wake information doesn't tell us much]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/21/new-alan-wake-information-doesnt-tell-us-much/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/21/new-alan-wake-information-doesnt-tell-us-much/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/21/new-alan-wake-information-doesnt-tell-us-much/#commentsFresh Alan Wake information text has made its way online, with a cryptic message appearing on the official Alan Wake forums. The paragraph, penned by Alan Wake himself, was posted by the forums' community manager and supposedly comes from developer Remedy Entertainment. It reads:
"The amount of pages keeps growing each night. There are also new edits on the old pages. They keep getting more aggressive. The story is rewriting itself. The protagonist is now my namesake, and his wife is called Alice. The most worrying aspect: the genre seems to be shifting. It's turning into a horror story. I can no longer be certain whether the hero can succeed or even survive. Apart for jumbled fragments of bad dreams and an oppressive feeling, I can remember nothing of the process when I wake up. But this morning, a breakthrough! When I came to my senses, I could smell her perfume on my shirt. I am close. I know it. I must push on.

- Alan Wake"
So, some pages are being re-written, a horrible horror story is starting and there's perfume that smells like shirts ... or something. Honestly, we have no idea what this all means, but feel free to share your thoughts. Who knows, maybe there's a new trailer or a release date hidden in there somewhere.

[Via IGN]

JoystiqNew Alan Wake information doesn't tell us much originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 21 Feb 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alan-wakehorrormgsmicrosoft-game-studiosremedyremedy-entertainmentSat, 21 Feb 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DiRT 2 DLC planned, promises shapely augmentation]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/21/dirt-2-dlc-planned-promises-shapely-augmentation/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/21/dirt-2-dlc-planned-promises-shapely-augmentation/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/21/dirt-2-dlc-planned-promises-shapely-augmentation/#commentsCodemasters just dropped a knowledge nugget on CVG, letting it be known that they have plans to release multiple downloadable content packs for Dirt 2 after the game's September-ish release. "We have plans to launch a number of small DLC packs soon after launch which players can use to personalize and augment the boxed game," says Dirt 2 Executive Producer Gavin Raeburn.

Also, advice for those who may be awed by Raeburn's use of the fancy "augment" verbiage: Do not get too excited for the DLC. The content will probably be new vehicles or maps. Most likely, his word choice was used to make the content seem super-humanly special and worth whatever amount they charge. It's either that, or his use of "augment" could be attributed to Mr. Freud.

JoystiqDiRT 2 DLC planned, promises shapely augmentation originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 21 Feb 2009 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>codemasterscolin-mcraecolin-mcrae-dirt-2dirt-2dlcracingSat, 21 Feb 2009 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rock Band Weekly: Alt Country and Jimmy Eat World]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/20/rock-band-weekly-alt-country-and-jimmy-eat-world/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/20/rock-band-weekly-alt-country-and-jimmy-eat-world/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/20/rock-band-weekly-alt-country-and-jimmy-eat-world/#commentsSome alternative-country (yes, that's actually a sub-genre of music) and three songs from Jimmy Eat World will be making their way to the Rock Band Music Store next week.

As much as we'd love to discuss the music that's included in the Alt Country Pack, we decided to focus our attention on the Jimmy Eat World tracks since we already googled some interesting facts about the songs. Were you aware that "Lucky Denver Mint" was in the flick Never Been Kissed? Or that "Sweetness" was a song included in NHL 2003? We bet you didn't know that "Futures" was used in First Decent -- now you do.

Alt Country Pack (680 / $8.49)
  • "3 Dimes Down" by Drive By Truckers (160 / $2)
  • "Can't Let Go" by Lucinda Williams (160 / $2)
  • "People Got a Lot of Nerve" by Neko Case (160 / $2)
  • "Time Bomb (LIVE)" by Old 97s (160 / $2)
  • "Satellite Radio" by Steve Earle (160 / $2)
Jimmy Eat World Pack (440 / $5.49)
  • "Futures" by Jimmy Eat World (160 / $2)
  • "Lucky Denver Mint" by Jimmy Eat World (160 / $2)
  • "Sweetness" by Jimmy Eat World (160 / $2)

Continue reading Rock Band Weekly: Alt Country and Jimmy Eat World

JoystiqRock Band Weekly: Alt Country and Jimmy Eat World originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Feb 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alt-countryeaharmonixjimmy-eat-worldmtv-gamespsnrock-bandrock-band-2rock-band-dlcrock-band-weeklyxblmFri, 20 Feb 2009 15:00:00 EST