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[D.I.C.E. summit rolling to Singapore in September]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/29/d-i-c-e-summit-rolling-to-singapore-in-september/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/29/d-i-c-e-summit-rolling-to-singapore-in-september/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/29/d-i-c-e-summit-rolling-to-singapore-in-september/#comments The Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences has announced today that its annual D.I.C.E. Summit will be going global. For the first time, the summit with be held in Asia, at Singapore's Suntec Center -- the same venue for Games Convention Asia. D.I.C.E. and GC Asia will open together on September 17.

Among those in the industry planning to head out to the Lion City for D.I.C.E. are Masaya Matsuura of PaRappa the Rapper fame and Chris Taylor, founder and creative director of Gas Powered Games. With both events running at the same time, it would seem like a rather good idea for regional game designers to stop by the Suntec Center this year.

JoystiqD.I.C.E. summit rolling to Singapore in September originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Jul 2009 02:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>academy-of-interactive-arts-and-sciencesasiadicedice-asiadice-summitgames-convention-asiagc-asiasingaporeWed, 29 Jul 2009 02:30:00 EST<![CDATA[64K signature petition delays German govt's game-banning bill]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/28/64k-signature-petition-delays-german-govts-game-banning-bill/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/28/64k-signature-petition-delays-german-govts-game-banning-bill/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/28/64k-signature-petition-delays-german-govts-game-banning-bill/#comments There has been a string of unrest in Germany over violence in video games as of late, which is why the government there is working on a bill to ban violent games from the country. While the man in the Bundestag has plans of censorship, German gamers are fighting back with a petition. And not just any old petition, mind you; the one already submitted contains 64,824 signatures, which means there's enough cause (by German law) for the government to open a public hearing.

In specifics, the government is looking to ban any software "where the main part is to realistically play the killing of people or other cruel or un-human acts of violence against humans or manlike characters." Basically, kiss all those lovely shooters goodbye -- that is, if the delay spurred by the petition won't change the government's mind.

Considering Germany is a place that enjoys the sound of the banhammer falling (examples: coked up Red Bull, genetically modified corn products and even 26 years of its own history have all been outlawed), there's no guarantee the bill will be deterred. In fact, the source Gamezine notes Germany passed the internet censorship bill (which was a similar case that had double the petitioners) earlier this year.

[Via Game Politics]

Joystiq64K signature petition delays German govt's game-banning bill originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 28 Jul 2009 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banbanhammergame-politicsgermanygovernmentpoliticsTue, 28 Jul 2009 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Steam deals: Up to 50% off family-friendly titles]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/21/steam-deals-up-to-50-off-family-friendly-titles/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/21/steam-deals-up-to-50-off-family-friendly-titles/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/21/steam-deals-up-to-50-off-family-friendly-titles/#comments Dude, we're telling you, this is the perfect time to start collecting the Nancy Drew titles. Steam has tons of family-friendly games on sale with up to 50% slashed off the regular price. It doesn't take a young, amateur detective to see the deal in this one.

Seriously though, if you've got a kid who loves PC games or just have a hankering for some simple time-wasters, then you might want to have a look. Jump right in here for the sale.

JoystiqSteam deals: Up to 50% off family-friendly titles originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Jul 2009 03:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bargainssalesteamTue, 21 Jul 2009 03:15:00 EST<![CDATA[ECA president encourages action against negative gaming stereotypes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/21/eca-president-encourages-action-against-negative-gaming-stereotypes/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/21/eca-president-encourages-action-against-negative-gaming-stereotypes/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/21/eca-president-encourages-action-against-negative-gaming-stereotypes/#comments Let's take a step back from all the hard hitting news for just a moment and listen to some conventional wisdom from Hal Halpin -- ECA president and certified defender of gamers everywhere. Over at IndustryGamers, Halpin wrote a touching (and personal) editorial piece about the perception of gamers, the perpetual stigmas we (all of us gamers) allow to be placed on us and what we should do about it.

Essentially, the article tells gamers not to just sit idly when being slapped with negative stereotypes. Our cherished culture is just a bit misunderstood, but it's up to you to make others understand it -- define it for them. So ... get off your fat lazy asses, read Halpin's editorial, and keep in mind the next time someone slurs you because you're a gamer.

[Thanks, Jack!]

JoystiqECA president encourages action against negative gaming stereotypes originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Jul 2009 02:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cultureecaeditorialgamer-culturehal-halpinperceptionTue, 21 Jul 2009 02:50:00 EST<![CDATA[PaRappa creator raps about Natal's musical possibilities]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/20/parappa-creator-raps-about-natals-musical-possibilities/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/20/parappa-creator-raps-about-natals-musical-possibilities/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/20/parappa-creator-raps-about-natals-musical-possibilities/#comments Masaya Matsuura (creator of PaRappa the Rapper and Major Minor's Majestic March) says he and his posse over at NanaOn-Sha are interested in making a music game for Microsoft's Project Natal. "We are thinking about ideas," said Matsuura to Videogamer.com at the UK Develop Conference. " I think any kind of interaction with a camera will be good for music games, but the important thing will be how we can find the new breed of gameplay."

Matsuura thinks he can create something fresh -- something other than the rock genre, which he points out Guitar Hero and Rock Band cover quite well. Instead, he thinks there's room to grow for other sounds: "There is other attractive music, so please try to find another style, another interaction, another gameplay with another type of music."

Activision is breaking out with DJ Hero. So, what could Matsuura work on? Wait a minute... breaking. How about a pure break dance title? Baraver the Breakdancing Beaver? No?

JoystiqPaRappa creator raps about Natal's musical possibilities originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Jul 2009 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>develop-conferencemajor-minors-majestic-marchmasaya-matsuuranatalparappaproject-natalMon, 20 Jul 2009 09:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Games are making more money than all other electronics in Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/13/games-are-making-more-money-than-all-other-electronics-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/13/games-are-making-more-money-than-all-other-electronics-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/13/games-are-making-more-money-than-all-other-electronics-in-japan/#comments It's a bit surprising to hear positive news regarding Japan's game industry -- in light of the general negative atmosphere that surrounds it. While some reports focus on the perpetual shrinking of the Japanese market, other reports, such as the latest from analysts Eurotechnology Japan KK, point out that the industry is doing much better than other electronic goods in this current economic climate.

Pitting the combined net annual income of the top nine gaming companies against the top 19 electronics companies, Eurotech Japan has found out that games have provided a more stable stream of revenue. Looking at the chart above, it would appear the global recession hasn't affected gaming as it has other electronics industries (giving more credence to the recession proof theory). Although, the chart also seems to indicate, in contrary to previous reports, that Japan's game industry isn't in decline but is rather in stagnation. Does that then mean if there was no recession, we'd be seeing healthier growth? Or does being "recession proof" also work in reverse?

[Via Cnet]

JoystiqGames are making more money than all other electronics in Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 Jul 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesseurotecheurotechnology-japanindustryjapanMon, 13 Jul 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[UFC president confirms war with EA, blacklisting fighters]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/13/ufc-president-confirms-war-with-ea-blacklisting-fighters/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/13/ufc-president-confirms-war-with-ea-blacklisting-fighters/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/13/ufc-president-confirms-war-with-ea-blacklisting-fighters/#comments UFC President Dana White threw off the gloves at Saturday's UFC 100 event, making heated comments about Electronic Arts and its upcoming title, MMA. White stated that he was literally "at war" with the game company and confirmed the rumored plan to ban/blacklist fighters from UFC if they choose to make appearances in EA's new game.

White's anger toward EA stems from accusations that the gaming giant was originally "disgusted" with the thought of making a mixed martial arts title. Said White to MMAJunkie.com: "EA Sports told us, you're not a real sport. We wouldn't touch this thing. We want nothing to do with this." According to White, EA's reversal and attempt at an MMA game is a huge slap in his face and to the fans. "You know what the difference is?" White rhetorically asked. "I'm in the mixed martial arts business. EA isn't. EA doesn't give a [expletive] about mixed martial arts. They made that very clear."

It sounds to us like UFC 101 will get an extra match on the card. EA's John Riccitiello versus UFC's Dana White. We'd pay top dollar for that.

[Via Kotaku]

JoystiqUFC president confirms war with EA, blacklisting fighters originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 Jul 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dana-whiteeamixed-martial-artsmmasportsufcufc-undisputed-2009ultimate-fighting-championshipMon, 13 Jul 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Games accounted for one fourth of HMV's sales last year]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/01/games-accounted-for-one-fourth-of-hmvs-sales-last-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/01/games-accounted-for-one-fourth-of-hmvs-sales-last-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/01/games-accounted-for-one-fourth-of-hmvs-sales-last-year/#comments British-based retailer HMV is happy to report it has made over £1.95 billion ($3.21 billion) in sales last year (ending April 25, 2009), making an easy profit of £63 million ($103 million). HMV saw profits rise 4.4%, up from £56.6 million ($93.1 million) in the previous year. Gaming, GamesIndustry.biz notes, played a big part in boosting the retailer's overall figures, thanks to the introduction of used games sales -- which is a tactic that has become quite popular as of late.

24% of all HMV's sales in the UK & Ireland were accounted to video games. This number is an increase of 4% over the previous year and also raises HMV's market share for gaming by 0.4%. HMV International also saw 12% of its total sales go to gaming and related technologies.

Overall, it seems HMV is pleased with how its new strategy with gaming is panning out. If this keeps up, the HMV logo change we've discussed before just might happen for real.

JoystiqGames accounted for one fourth of HMV's sales last year originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesshmvretailretailerssalesukWed, 01 Jul 2009 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pachter: PlayStation software sales will account for 31% of all games sold worldwide in 2009]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/01/pachter-playstation-software-sales-will-account-for-31-of-all/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/01/pachter-playstation-software-sales-will-account-for-31-of-all/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/01/pachter-playstation-software-sales-will-account-for-31-of-all/#comments Although Wedbush Morgan analyst, Michael Pachter, predicts PS2 will become somewhat irrelevant in 2009, he doesn't discount the combined strength of the PlayStation brand. He remains optimistic for the entire PlayStation family as he expects "software sales for Sony consoles to account for 31% of all game software sold worldwide."

Pachter indicated in Wedbush's annual Interactive Industry Report that, while the numbers have been dwindling for PS2, overall worldwide software sales for PS3 titles have more than doubled within the last year. In 2008, 62.4 million units of PS3 software titles have been sold -- a huge step up from the 29.6 million units sold in 2007. The momentum of this growth will carry into 2009, according to Pachter, who believes PS3 and PSP titles (the latter of which only saw a 15% increase in worldwide sales last year) will pick up PS2's slack.

PS3 titles will be the top sellers, despite the fact that Pachter predicts Sony won't "secure significant third party exclusivity" as it continues "to focus its internal development efforts on blockbuster games." It's interesting to note, in light of another report, this strategy hasn't really worked out for Sony.

JoystiqPachter: PlayStation software sales will account for 31% of all games sold worldwide in 2009 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 01:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>michael-pachtersceasonywedbush-morganWed, 01 Jul 2009 01:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 Serious Sam HD could happen if consumers want it]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/29/ps3-serious-sam-hd-could-happen-if-consumers-want-it/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/29/ps3-serious-sam-hd-could-happen-if-consumers-want-it/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/29/ps3-serious-sam-hd-could-happen-if-consumers-want-it/#comments Speaking to G4, Croteam CEO Roman Ribaric said the company originally also wanted to do a PSN version of Serious Sam HD alongside the PC and XBLA releases, but cited time constraints as the major factor holding it back. "[We] couldn't get additional financing to support [the] extra development time needed," said Ribaric. "It was either to do PSN by the same date or forget about it."

Luckily, Croteam hasn't gone with the latter and hasn't completely ruled out releasing a PSN port sometime after the PC and XBLA versions. The Croteam CEO says he's heard from different offices in the industry that consumers are disenchanted with late ports; however, he's still interested in listening to what PS3 owners think. Is it worthwhile for Croteam to pursue? Would you wait for the PSN version? Send Croteam an e-mail or maybe start a petition online -- this might be one of the few times developers will actually listen.

View Poll

JoystiqPS3 Serious Sam HD could happen if consumers want it originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Jun 2009 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>croteamfpspsnroman-ribaricserious-samserious-sam-hdshooterMon, 29 Jun 2009 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Iranian government blocking all online activity except gaming]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/26/iranian-government-blocking-all-online-activity-except-gaming/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/26/iranian-government-blocking-all-online-activity-except-gaming/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/26/iranian-government-blocking-all-online-activity-except-gaming/#comments The internet has played a big part in the drama of Iran's recent presidential elections, disseminating information about the re-election of controversial leader Mahmoud Ahmadinejad faster than most major news outlets. Fearful of this powerful resource fueling further unrest, the Iranian government has cut off all online activity -- all but gaming.

Apparently, Ahmadinejad's government is not afraid of protesters communicating via World of Warcraft to plan the next protest rally, as noted by Security to the Core and GamePolitics. Also, Ahmadinejad has not yet downloaded Prince of Persia's Epilogue and is just dying to know how it all ends.

JoystiqIranian government blocking all online activity except gaming originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Jun 2009 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>iranonlineonline-gamingpoliticsFri, 26 Jun 2009 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony: Downloadable PSP titles will average around 700MB]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/25/sony-downloadable-psp-titles-will-average-around-700mb/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/25/sony-downloadable-psp-titles-will-average-around-700mb/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/25/sony-downloadable-psp-titles-will-average-around-700mb/#comments As PlayStation Portable morphs into the all-digital PSP Go system, many consumers might be wondering just how much space they will need to set aside for each future downloadable title. Sony representative Al de Leon spoke to Joystiq recently at an event in NYC about the storage issue, saying most titles will average around "600-800MB in size." This means, de Leon further added, that the PSP Go's 16GB capacity -- without any additional memory unit -- could hold up to an "average of 17-18 games." Considering the Go can handle an extra 16GB of M2 storage, the number of games could easily be doubled.

Although 700MB is the point we should be expecting most games to gravitate towards, there will still be other titles that will be far below this mark or even way above it. Smaller scale titles like Patapon 2 (which is less than 400MB) for example, could take as little as half the average footprint. Others, like the recently released PSOne classic Final Fantasy VII (takes up 1.3GB), could be nearly double this number.

JoystiqSony: Downloadable PSP titles will average around 700MB originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Jun 2009 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>digital-distributionmemorypsnpsp-gostorageThu, 25 Jun 2009 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sonic turns 18 tomorrow, Sega giving you all his presents]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/22/sonic-turns-18-tomorrow-sega-giving-you-all-his-presents/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/22/sonic-turns-18-tomorrow-sega-giving-you-all-his-presents/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/22/sonic-turns-18-tomorrow-sega-giving-you-all-his-presents/#comments It's Sonic's birthday tomorrow. He's turning 18 and leaving the awkwardness of puberty behind to become an adult hedgehog. To celebrate this special time in every blue speed-demon's life, Sega is going to hold a bash and give away many Sonic-related gifts to all of his fans. On Tuesday, June 23 (that's tomorrow), keep your eyes glued to both @sonicgames on Twitter and Sonic on Facebook for a chance to win any one of the 15 prize packs up for grabs (see after the break for deets).

All prizes are available to win worldwide -- there's no silly regional restrictions it would seem (except for Quebec because you're too good for foreign goods*). The Sega Blognik has the full rules on how (and when) to enter the contests, so make sure you hit that up.

*Not an actual restriction

Continue reading Sonic turns 18 tomorrow, Sega giving you all his presents

JoystiqSonic turns 18 tomorrow, Sega giving you all his presents originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 22 Jun 2009 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contesfacebooksegasonicsonic-the-hedgehogtwitterMon, 22 Jun 2009 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamestop: Digital distribution not a threat for another five years]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/22/gamestop-digital-distribution-not-a-threat-for-another-five-yea/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/22/gamestop-digital-distribution-not-a-threat-for-another-five-yea/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/22/gamestop-digital-distribution-not-a-threat-for-another-five-yea/#comments According to Gamestop's Sterne Agee analyst, Arvind Bhatia, retailers have nothing to fear from digital distribution -- not for the next five years, anyhow. Speaking to Industrygamers, Bhatia disclosed that Gamestop management has been conducting thorough studies on the capabilities of digital downloads and its potential adoption for several years now and that the findings are still in favor of brick-and-mortar establishments. Bhatia predicts that a market for downloadable titles won't put serious pressure on retailers until 2014, which he proclaims will be a time when "25% of the population" will have easy access to download technology and when price and storage capacity won't be such a concern.

Although Gamestop's study might sound like it's trying to combat digital distribution, Bhatia states it's not about competition but more on adaptation and learning how to profit from the changing distribution channels. We can already see retailers taking a slice, stocking network prepaid cards in stores and offering DLC and full game codes stuffed inside retail boxes. If this is how digital distribution is already affecting retailers, how much moreso in 2014?

JoystiqGamestop: Digital distribution not a threat for another five years originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 22 Jun 2009 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analystarvind-bhatiabusinessgamestopindustryretailerssterne-ageeMon, 22 Jun 2009 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Castle Crashers reached one million players today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/22/castle-crashers-reached-one-million-players-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/22/castle-crashers-reached-one-million-players-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/22/castle-crashers-reached-one-million-players-today/#comments The developers of Castle Crashers must have been ecstatic when its XBLA baby grew to house over 900,000 users last month, but this probably doesn't compare to the excitement felt today. At 12:57pm, The Behemoth diligently verified via its Leaderboard numbers that its behemoth of a game has broken the seven-digit barrier, becoming host to exactly 1 million players.

Castle Crashers has reached this momentous milestone rather quickly, having been out on the market for only 10 months (hey, that's an average of 100,000 new players a month) and to celebrate, The Behemoth gave away a set of uber-fantastic stuff. If you signed up previously, you could've won a bag of prizes which included a custom Castle Crashers Xbox 360 Elite. Congrats to whoever won, and to The Behemoth!

JoystiqCastle Crashers reached one million players today originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 22 Jun 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>castle-crashersthe-behemothxblaMon, 22 Jun 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Here's an early look at StarCraft II's battle report 3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/19/heres-an-early-look-at-starcraft-iis-battle-report-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/19/heres-an-early-look-at-starcraft-iis-battle-report-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/19/heres-an-early-look-at-starcraft-iis-battle-report-3/#comments Another StarCraft II battle report just hit the interwebs. This one is out a little early, as you won't find it anywhere on the official site just yet. Blizzard's third battle report (as obtained by Gamez.nl) shows off some new units, a new map called Scrap Yard and also features over 17 minutes of Zerg vs. Protoss action.

While 17 minutes may not be enough to completely satiate a decade-long deficit of StarCraft goodness, it sure does leave us smiling and gets us excited about playing it later this year. Get briefed on the full battle report right after the break.

[Via Incgamers]

Continue reading Here's an early look at StarCraft II's battle report 3

JoystiqHere's an early look at StarCraft II's battle report 3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Jun 2009 14:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardrtsstarcraftstarcraft-2starcraft-iivideoFri, 19 Jun 2009 14:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Gaming consoles lead in web-to-TV streaming]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/17/gaming-consoles-lead-in-web-to-tv-streaming/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/17/gaming-consoles-lead-in-web-to-tv-streaming/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/17/gaming-consoles-lead-in-web-to-tv-streaming/#comments In-Stat, a market analysis group, published a report this week which takes a look at how online video-to-television streaming is putting pressure on traditional cable providers and will eventually restructure "today's video distribution ecosystem." As noted by In-Stat, gaming consoles are at the forefront of this new direction, leading in web-based video streaming and beating other devices like digital media adapters, set top boxes (Apple TV), Blu-ray players, web-connected HDTVs and even PC media-centers.

Indeed, current gen consoles hold many advantages over the competition, seeing as they're relatively inexpensive and serve multiple purposes. The Xbox 360 has supported Netflix streaming since late last year, and both PS3 and Wii feature internet browsers (additionally, the PS3 allows for YouTube uploads on some software). In-Stat claims 29% of US console owners between the ages of 25 and 34 currently use their consoles to stream video to their televisions.

In-Stat expects consoles to stay as the top device for at least the next five years. As long as people know they can still stream pr0n on their consoles, we're sure it will.

[Via Gamespot]

JoystiqGaming consoles lead in web-to-TV streaming originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Jun 2009 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analystin-statvideo-streamingWed, 17 Jun 2009 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Majesco revenues up 60% for second quarter (Thanks, Jillian Michaels, Cooking Mama ... again)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/16/majesco-revenues-up-60-for-second-quarter-thanks-jillian-micha/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/16/majesco-revenues-up-60-for-second-quarter-thanks-jillian-micha/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/16/majesco-revenues-up-60-for-second-quarter-thanks-jillian-micha/#comments Majesco announced gloated yesterday about its earnings for the second quarter of 2009 (ending April 30, 2009). The company reported net revenues increased 60.8% to $20.5 million over the $12.8 million earned in the same period last year. Majesco attributes the massive increase of revenue to strong software sales for Jillian Michaels' Fitness Ultimatum 2009, Cooking Mama titles and Gardening Mama, which hit retailers in March.

Last quarter, Majesco's revenues kicked up 75% with its good fortunes also attributed to the same games with Jillian Michaels' Ultimatum selling more than half a million copies. It's then not surprising that Majesco is expanding the brand, bringing out Ultimatum 2010 for Wii and Jillian Michaels Pocket Trainer 2010 on DS next year.

JoystiqMajesco revenues up 60% for second quarter (Thanks, Jillian Michaels, Cooking Mama ... again) originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 16 Jun 2009 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cooking-mamagardening-mamajillian-michaelsmajescoTue, 16 Jun 2009 17:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Dark Sector half-priced on Steam, console versions also going for cheap]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/16/dark-sector-half-priced-on-steam-console-versions-also-going-fo/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/16/dark-sector-half-priced-on-steam-console-versions-also-going-fo/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/16/dark-sector-half-priced-on-steam-console-versions-also-going-fo/#comments Having only been on the market for three months, the PC version of Dark Sector will already be going on sale for half price on Steam. The third-person shooter will stay at the slashed price of $9.99 throughout the week and up until next Monday, June 22.

If you're strictly a PC gamer and looking to dive into Dark Sector, then this appears to be a good time to pick it up. Those with consoles should hit Amazon. The site lists the PS3 version at only $6, and the Xbox 360 version is going for an acceptable $1.49. The PC software of Dark Sector is a direct port of the original console game released last year, so the only difference you'll notice between versions is the price.

JoystiqDark Sector half-priced on Steam, console versions also going for cheap originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 16 Jun 2009 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dark-sectordigital-extremesshooterssteamTue, 16 Jun 2009 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SCEA's Koller calls PS3 slim rumors frustrating]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/09/sceas-koller-calls-ps3-slim-rumors-frustrating/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/09/sceas-koller-calls-ps3-slim-rumors-frustrating/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/09/sceas-koller-calls-ps3-slim-rumors-frustrating/#comments "I'd love to live in a world with fewer leaks and more meat," said SCEA's head of hardware marketing, John Koller, to Ars Technica on the circulating murmurs of a PS3 slim model. Koller admits Sony has had "a certain amount of frustration" with rumors that a slim-lined PS3 will hit retailers in the fall and he thinks it's more important to focus on the certainty of the present than the possibilities of the future.

Koller calls it a matter of what "may or may not happen," which is interesting, since he's not flat out denying it nor is he outright laying down the "does not comment on rumor/speculations" angle. Could it be that the slim model is real, though now with the beans spilled, Sony will postpone its release plans? Surmountable evidence suggests that it is, and even Koller's wording in the interview (read: use of "leak," not "rumor") fuels this thought.

JoystiqSCEA's Koller calls PS3 slim rumors frustrating originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Jun 2009 20:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hardwarejohn-kollerps3-slimsceaTue, 09 Jun 2009 20:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Empire's remaining stockpile to be sold off this week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/09/empires-remaining-stockpile-to-be-sold-off-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/09/empires-remaining-stockpile-to-be-sold-off-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/09/empires-remaining-stockpile-to-be-sold-off-this-week/#comments Zoo Publishing may already own the rights to Empire Interactive's IP (having bought the fallen company's catalog last month), but it doesn't own any of the company's current physical stock. This means there's a warehouse somewhere in Birmingham, England filled with the defunct company's retail software (212,000 boxes, to be exact) just sitting idly, collecting dust. KPMG is looking to liquidate these former Empire assets, hoping to sell everything altogether for a 15% premium this week and finally let Empire fade into history.

Of course, only those with pockets lined with gold and don't mind swimming in multiple copies of Pipemania, could afford to take up the offer. As MCV sadly notes, none of the proceeds will go to the 40 ex-Empire staff who were laid off and unpaid for their final eight weeks at the company.

JoystiqEmpire's remaining stockpile to be sold off this week originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Jun 2009 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessempire-interactivelay-offsrecessionukTue, 09 Jun 2009 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New SCEE head thinks Wii owners will eventually 'upgrade' to PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/new-scee-head-thinks-wii-owners-will-eventually-upgrade-to-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/new-scee-head-thinks-wii-owners-will-eventually-upgrade-to-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/new-scee-head-thinks-wii-owners-will-eventually-upgrade-to-ps3/#commentsThe new president of SCEE, Andrew House, isn't wasting any time taking over the reins from David Reeves and causing a stir. After having been in his new office for only a little over a month, House is already making daring statements, telling Edge-Online that he believes Wii owners will eventually 'upgrade' to PS3. His logic is based off prior figures that pit the lifecycle of PS2 against that of N64 (he probably meant GameCube), citing Nintendo's console as the "entry level gaming device" and that data suggested consumers planned to "upgrade to a more powerful machine [read: PS2] later in the lifecycle when the price point was right for them."

That's a rather interesting thing to say because, frankly, for most people, the price of the PlayStation 3 isn't anywhere near right just yet. Of course, House's scope is for the long-term and about inevitable future price cuts, but there's one thing he forgot to factor in: Microsoft. What's stopping people from upgrading to the Xbox 360, especially since Microsoft has drastically taken up a bigger share of the market since the last generation?

JoystiqNew SCEE head thinks Wii owners will eventually 'upgrade' to PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Jun 2009 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>andrew-housebusinesssceeMon, 08 Jun 2009 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Jak & Daxter travel to the Lost Frontier]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/video-jak-and-daxter-travel-to-the-lost-frontier/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/video-jak-and-daxter-travel-to-the-lost-frontier/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/video-jak-and-daxter-travel-to-the-lost-frontier/#comments Jak and Daxter are going where no .... green-haired dude and weasel thing have gone before. They're heading off to some place called the "Lost Frontier" in their new portable adventure for PSP (also available on PS2).

Jak & Daxter: The Lost Frontier looks like a standard Jak title with some added flying game mechanics. Check out the vid and see it in action. Maybe you'll want to brush up on those piloting skills.

Gallery: Jak & Daxter: The Lost Frontier

JoystiqVideo: Jak & Daxter travel to the Lost Frontier originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Jun 2009 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jak-and-daxterjak-and-daxter-the-lost-frontierThu, 04 Jun 2009 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: echochrono certainly isn't like echochrome]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/video-echochrono-certainly-isnt-like-echochrome/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/video-echochrono-certainly-isnt-like-echochrome/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/video-echochrono-certainly-isnt-like-echochrome/#comments Were you thinking echochrono was just going to be more of same old puzzles? Well, think again. The follow up to the original Escher puzzler looks like it's taking things to a whole different dimension.

Judging from this trailer, players won't have to alter perspective anymore as the game appears to be fixed on a 2D plain; however, this doesn't mean things will be any easier -- it just means it's a whole new way to play the game. What else is new? Color. Seriously, who thought of that one!

Gallery: echochrono

JoystiqVideo: echochrono certainly isn't like echochrome originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Jun 2009 00:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artoonechochronopuzzlessceaThu, 04 Jun 2009 00:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Meet the various faces of Heavy Rain]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/video-meet-the-various-faces-of-heavy-rain/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/video-meet-the-various-faces-of-heavy-rain/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/video-meet-the-various-faces-of-heavy-rain/#comments Pole dancers, zebra suits and hanging crosses, oh my! These are just some of the sights to spot in this new Heavy Rain trailer from E3. Take a very close look at some of those new faces; any one of them could be one of the four mysterious playable characters that were hinted at previously. We've already met Jayden, Mad Jack and Madison, but who are all the others?

Gallery: Heavy Rain: The Origami Killer

JoystiqVideo: Meet the various faces of Heavy Rain originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Jun 2009 03:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2009heavy-rainquantic-dreamsceeWed, 03 Jun 2009 03:05:00 EST<![CDATA[This is what Final Fantasy XIV looks like]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/02/this-is-what-final-fantasy-xiv-looks-like/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/02/this-is-what-final-fantasy-xiv-looks-like/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/02/this-is-what-final-fantasy-xiv-looks-like/#comments Final Fantasy XIV was quite a big shocker to come out of Sony's press conference today. In fact, it drew out some gasps from the crowd and it got them thinking SCEA's Jack Tretton made a mistake with his numbers. But no, Jack knew exactly what he was talking about, as he presented this debut trailer with a wily grin across his face. The MMO from Square Enix is very much real and will be going to both PS3 and PC (a press release confirmed the PC version later today).

So, enjoy the trailer and make sure you take a gander at the 14 screen shots in the gallery below. 14, eh? What an interesting number.

Gallery: Final Fantasy XIV

JoystiqThis is what Final Fantasy XIV looks like originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Jun 2009 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-xivmmosquare-enixTue, 02 Jun 2009 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation Motion Controller launching 2010]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/02/playstation-motion-controller-launching-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/02/playstation-motion-controller-launching-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/02/playstation-motion-controller-launching-2010/#comments
Sony's much-rumored PlayStation Motion Controller is real and it will be launching in 2010. Sony showed off its new tech at Sony's E3 press conference and SCEA's Jack Tretton claims it's an experience "closer to real-life than anything you've ever seen."

The PlayStation Controller will work in conjunction with the PlayStation Eye, which will capture movements of the motion controller for "true one-to-one tracking." Sony showed off a variety of tech demos for use of the motion controller, including sword swinging fantasy, tank-based third-person shooting, archery, tennis and drawing -- all of which are meant only to demonstrate what is possible with the motion controller and is not the final software for the new peripheral (Those looking for a PS Sports title, sorry).

The developers made it quite clear that the controller itself is still a prototype, though the final product should be ready by 2010. Check out our on-going Sony E3 Liveblog for even more details.

JoystiqPlayStation Motion Controller launching 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Jun 2009 15:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>motion-controllermotion-controlsTue, 02 Jun 2009 15:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Tretton confirms Lost Planet 2 for PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/02/tretton-confirms-lost-planet-2-for-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/02/tretton-confirms-lost-planet-2-for-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/02/tretton-confirms-lost-planet-2-for-ps3/#comments Jack Tretton mentioned in the Sony Keynote that Lost Planet 2 is a title you can expect to see on PS3. Previously, the Capcom-made title was only confirmed for Xbox 360, but like its predecessor, Lost Planet, expect number two to go multi-platform.

JoystiqTretton confirms Lost Planet 2 for PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Jun 2009 15:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcome3-2009lost-planetTue, 02 Jun 2009 15:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy VII hitting PSN today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/02/final-fantasy-vii-hitting-psn-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/02/final-fantasy-vii-hitting-psn-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/02/final-fantasy-vii-hitting-psn-today/#comments The PlayStation One classic, Final Fantasy VII, will be available on PSN today, so keep your eyes glued to the PlayStation Store. In addition to this, Sony promises that there will be over 50 more PlayStation One classics coming to PSN in the remainder of the year.

[Update: FFVII is now available on the PlayStation Store for $9.99. The download is 1.32GB. Thanks to everyone that sent this in!]

JoystiqFinal Fantasy VII hitting PSN today originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Jun 2009 15:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2009final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-viipsnsquare-enixTue, 02 Jun 2009 15:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Kojima details Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/02/kojima-details-metal-gear-solid-peace-walker/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/02/kojima-details-metal-gear-solid-peace-walker/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/02/kojima-details-metal-gear-solid-peace-walker/#comments Tactical Espionage is back and on PSP. Kojima announced Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker at Sony's conference calling it a "true sequel" that's definitely "not a spin-off or side story." Kojima himself will be writing the script and producing the game, so fans can rest easy they're getting an authentic Metal Gear experience.

The game is set in the 1970s, 10 years after the events of Metal Gear Solid 3. It will star, yet again, Big Boss and will take place in Costa Rica, divulging the back story of Outer Heaven's creation. It will debut in 2010.

JoystiqKojima details Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Jun 2009 15:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2009hideo-kojimakojimametal-gear-solidmetal-gear-solid-peace-walkermgsTue, 02 Jun 2009 15:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Redbox experimenting with video game rentals]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/02/redbox-experimenting-with-video-game-rentals/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/02/redbox-experimenting-with-video-game-rentals/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/02/redbox-experimenting-with-video-game-rentals/#comments Been to the grocery store lately? Ever noticed that giant red box outside the entrance that spits out DVD rentals for cheap? Well, guess what? Those things could be packing video games real soon, too. The company that owns those rental kiosks, the aptly-named Redbox, has just hired a new VP of video games to oversee game integration into its rental service.

According to Video Business, Redbox will be putting up two new types of machines: one solely dedicated to game rentals and the other a hybrid of games and movies. It appears Redbox will host mostly current-gen, home console games (Wii, Xbox 360 and PS3) and will even offer game trade-ins at the kiosks, as well. Currently, Redbox is still in the testing phase with only a few select cities participating in the market test.

[Thanks, Daniel P.!]

JoystiqRedbox experimenting with video game rentals originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Jun 2009 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>redboxrentalsTue, 02 Jun 2009 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Listing reveals Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker and new console Castlevania]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/01/rumor-listing-reveals-metal-gear-solid-peace-walker-and-new-co/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/01/rumor-listing-reveals-metal-gear-solid-peace-walker-and-new-co/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/01/rumor-listing-reveals-metal-gear-solid-peace-walker-and-new-co/#comments Konami's press event won't start until June 3rd, but it looks like some of the company's line-up may already been spoiled. A seemingly careless listing on Gamespress (a resource for video game-related press releases) suggests that two of Konami/Kojima Production's new titles could be Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker for PSP and Castlevania: Lords of Shadow for Xbox 360 and PS3.

The mention of a second new MGS follows assumptions we had previously (and could be the name of the already confirmed PSP title), while the addition of "Castlevania" to the already known Lords of Shadow is something that was unexpected. Although, on second thought ... it does look a bit like a Castelvania title (see the concept art after the break). Lord of Shadows has been an object of attention lately and was presumed to be the game teased in Kojima's other teaser website.

Meanwhile, one last revelation suggests Metal Gear Solid: Rising is not a 360 exclusive but will be going to PC and PS3 as well. Considering, the non-use of the word "exclusive" in Microsoft's press conference where Hideo Kojima personally unveiled Rising, it left many to speculate whether the game was exclusive to the platform. Keep in mind, however, that this listing does not confirm anything and might be a database entry mistake.

Continue reading Rumor: Listing reveals Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker and new console Castlevania

JoystiqRumor: Listing reveals Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker and new console Castlevania originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>castlevaniacastlevania-lords-of-shadowkojima-productionskonamimetal-gear-solidmetal-gear-solid-peace-walkermetal-gear-solid-risingrumorMon, 01 Jun 2009 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix and Eidos dropping Warner Bros. publishing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/01/square-enix-and-eidos-dropping-warner-bros-publishing/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/01/square-enix-and-eidos-dropping-warner-bros-publishing/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/01/square-enix-and-eidos-dropping-warner-bros-publishing/#comments Although the ink has dried on Square Enix's buyout of Eidos last month, there still remains a few issues to iron out before the handover is complete. One of these issues is the publishing rights of currently scheduled titles. Batman: Arkham Asylum and Mini Ninjas were originally under Warner Bros. Interactive before the takeover and will continue to go under that name; however, all future titles will return in-house.

Kane & Lynch 2 and Just Cause 2 can be counted among those titles donning the Square Enix logos, though thankfully the influence stops there as Eidos will continue to run as an independent company. Don't worry, Kane & Lynch will be androgyny-free.

JoystiqSquare Enix and Eidos dropping Warner Bros. publishing originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 01 Jun 2009 16:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buyouteidosindustrypublishingsquare-enixwarner-brosMon, 01 Jun 2009 16:10:00 EST<![CDATA[StarCraft II targeting an '09 release]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/01/starcraft-ii-targeting-an-09-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/01/starcraft-ii-targeting-an-09-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/01/starcraft-ii-targeting-an-09-release/#comments Blizzard president Mike Morhaime confirmed in an investor webcast that StarCraft II has been planned for release later this year. "We're targeting an end of year release this year for StarCraft II," said Morhaime. "But as always, we won't release it until it meets our standards and the expectations of our players."

With the beta opening this summer, it looks like there will be more than enough StarCraft for fans to sink their Zerg-like talons into.

Gallery: Starcraft II


[Via Big Download]

JoystiqStarCraft II targeting an '09 release originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 01 Jun 2009 15:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activision-blizzardblizzarde3-2009starcraftstarcraft-2starcraft-iiMon, 01 Jun 2009 15:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Job listing suggests Microsoft working on 300K-player game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/30/job-listing-suggests-microsoft-working-on-300k-player-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/30/job-listing-suggests-microsoft-working-on-300k-player-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/30/job-listing-suggests-microsoft-working-on-300k-player-game/#comments
 A job listing found on both Gamasutra and Microsoft's careers website is seeking out an engineer to work on a "game" that will support up to "300,000 players in real-time." The job ad states that Microsoft is working on "building an extremely high performance system to extend console games to the server in new ways" and that it's "creating a completely new set of web services" for Xbox Live and Xbox.com integration.

It sounds to us like Microsoft is planning to overhaul the Dashboard and Xbox Live service and combine it with an MMO-like system (given the 300K-player support). Or, it could be building a separate virtual world interface like Sony's PlayStation Home. What do you think Microsoft could be working on?

[Via CVG]

JoystiqJob listing suggests Microsoft working on 300K-player game originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 30 May 2009 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dashboardinterfacejob-listingmicrosoftmmorumorSat, 30 May 2009 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Remember Madballs with Babo Invasion for XBLA, PC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/30/remember-madballs-with-babo-invasion-for-pc-xbla/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/30/remember-madballs-with-babo-invasion-for-pc-xbla/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/30/remember-madballs-with-babo-invasion-for-pc-xbla/#comments Remember Madballs? You know, those little ghoul-shaped spheres of rubber you kept on your toy shelf next to the Alf doll and Ghostbusters Proton Pack. Yeah, now you remember them. Well, guess what, they're back and this time they're hitting video games.

Canadian developer Playbrains will be bringing its take on the Madballs universe, Madballs in Babo: Invasion, to Steam and Xbox Live Arcade this summer. The game is a top-down shooter with randomly generated maps, 4-player co-op and 16-player multiplayer. Check out the screens below.

Gallery: Madballs In Babo: Invasion


[Via Big Download]

JoystiqRemember Madballs with Babo Invasion for XBLA, PC originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 30 May 2009 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>madballsmadballs-in-babo-invasionsplaybrainsxblaSat, 30 May 2009 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hirai aiming to 'quickly' break-even on PlayStation hardware, looking to double PSN sales]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/hirai-aiming-to-quickly-break-even-on-playstation-hardware-lo/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/hirai-aiming-to-quickly-break-even-on-playstation-hardware-lo/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/hirai-aiming-to-quickly-break-even-on-playstation-hardware-lo/#comments President and CEO of SCEI, Kaz Hirai, knows all too well the financial troubles plaguing Sony's Computer Entertainment division. SCEI posted an operating loss of ¥58.5 billion ($612 million) for fiscal 2008 and Sony admits it doesn't expect to turn a profit any time soon. But that's not going to stop Hirai from trying to change things. No, according to what he told Japan Today, it sounds like he already has a plan: "We need to quickly bring our PlayStation business on a break-even level and later to profitability."

So, he's laid out a set of milestones to accomplish, but how's SCEI going to get there? Hirai said Sony needs "a strategy where buying a [sic] hardware is not the endpoint but instead a starting point that can offer new experiences." This includes, according to him, bringing the PlayStation Network to traditionally non-gaming electronics like televisions and digital cameras -- shades of what Howard Stringer said weeks before. And speaking of PSN, part of the strategy is aimed at boosting digital sales from ¥20 billion ($209 million) last year, to ¥50 billion ($523 million). We guess this means expect a lot more content spread across a lot more devices.

[Via Kotaku]

JoystiqHirai aiming to 'quickly' break-even on PlayStation hardware, looking to double PSN sales originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 May 2009 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesskaz-hiraipsnsceiFri, 29 May 2009 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Lionhead might unveil something big at Microsoft presser]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/lionhead-might-unveil-something-big-at-microsoft-presser/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/lionhead-might-unveil-something-big-at-microsoft-presser/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/lionhead-might-unveil-something-big-at-microsoft-presser/#commentsLionhead Studios posted an interesting tweet today, hinting at a potentially huge reveal to appear at Microsoft's press conference on Monday. The studio is claiming it will host a "big presentation" at the conference, urging all its Twitter followers to "watch this space!" for more (hyperbolic punctuation included!).

The studio could be gearing up to reveal some mysterious new IP that it had been working on for quite some time. Then again, maybe Lionhead's idea of a "big presentation" is Peter Molyneux playing beer pong on stage. The possibilities are endless, really, but we do know one thing: all will be known come Monday at 10:30 a.m. PST.

[Via Eurogamer]

JoystiqLionhead might unveil something big at Microsoft presser originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 May 2009 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2009lionheadlionhead-studiosmicrosoftpeter-molyneuxFri, 29 May 2009 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[June's GameOn! expo lets public try Capcom's latest]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/junes-gameon-expo-lets-public-try-capcoms-latest/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/junes-gameon-expo-lets-public-try-capcoms-latest/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/junes-gameon-expo-lets-public-try-capcoms-latest/#comments It's a real shame that E3 is an industry-only event, keeping all the hot, new games out of the hands of the general public. The only way you, the gaming masses, will get an early romp with these highly-anticipated titles is if you hop on a plane to England and grab tickets to London's GameOn! event.

On June 20 and 21 at the London Olympia, British gamers will get to go hands-on with upcoming titles from the following companies: Sony, Nintendo, Capcom and possibly more. Specifically, Capcom (via Edge-Online) has a detailed list of what it's showing, and it certainly is a line-up strong enough to make its E3 showcase blush. Check out the list after the break. Is there anything you want to play?

Continue reading June's GameOn! expo lets public try Capcom's latest

JoystiqJune's GameOn! expo lets public try Capcom's latest originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 May 2009 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eventsexpogame-ongameonlondonukFri, 29 May 2009 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Koei-Tecmo focusing on the West, not Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/koei-tecmo-focusing-on-the-west-not-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/koei-tecmo-focusing-on-the-west-not-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/koei-tecmo-focusing-on-the-west-not-japan/#comments
Swine Flu may be keeping Koei-Tecmo (well, really just the Koei side) from heading to E3 next month, but it won't keep the company away from North America forever. In fact, Koei-Tecmo plans to have a stronger presence in the West, shifting its focus onto more original, Western-aimed IP. "Our expansion into the Western market is the most important part of our mid-term plan," Koei CEO Kenji Matsubara told MCVUK, citing the yearly decline of the Japanese market as a major factor.

Koei's Canadian studio in Toronto will receive the bulk of the workload on these new IPs -- which means the strictly-Japanese work ethics currently at the studio will probably have to go. Hopefully though, it won't get rid of all its ethics.

JoystiqKoei-Tecmo focusing on the West, not Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 May 2009 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessindustrykoeikoei-tecmokotecmergertecmowestFri, 29 May 2009 06:00:00 EST