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 2010 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[90% of E3 2010 exhibit space already sold, registration open]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/90-of-e3-2010-exhibit-space-already-sold-registration-open/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/90-of-e3-2010-exhibit-space-already-sold-registration-open/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/90-of-e3-2010-exhibit-space-already-sold-registration-open/#commentsListen up, game industry, the Electronic Entertainment Expo -- E3 to the kids -- is kind of a big deal. If you want your company to be a part of it, it's time to get on the ball, as the Expo has revealed that 90 percent of its floor space has already been booked. And seriously, like, everyone is going to be there when the show opens June 15. We're expecting some new Zelda, plenty of PlayStation Motion Controller and Natal talk and, of course, lots of new games. If that's the kind of company you want to keep, it's time to register. That goes for you retail and press types too, as attendee and media registration is now open as well.

Incidentally, Joystiq Publishing is currently soliciting sponsors for floor space. As a no-profit publisher -- it's not that we don't want profits, we just haven't made any yet -- we're looking for a forward-thinking, capital-heavy company to bring our MEGA E3 booth design to life. The current blueprint calls for six full stories of action-packed exhibition rooms, a pizzeria and a ball pit in the center courtyard. We're willing to compromise on the sixth floor (it's mostly Wii shovelware), but the ball pit is non-negotiable.

Joystiq90% of E3 2010 exhibit space already sold, registration open originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesse3e3-2010joystiq-publishingTue, 09 Feb 2010 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LEGO Universe beta constructed, signups begin]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/lego-universe-beta-constructed-signups-begin/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/lego-universe-beta-constructed-signups-begin/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/lego-universe-beta-constructed-signups-begin/#commentsIf we've learned anything about LEGO Universe, it's that the game should not be dismissed. Yes, it's an MMO aimed at younger gamers, but did you see the trailer? Whether you did or not, you need to watch it right now. We've embedded it directly above this post. There should be a play button right in the middle. Click it. We'll wait.

Now, having seen that, know this: The LEGO Universe beta is now accepting signups. We suggest you head over to the signup site and sign up immediately. Unfortunately, no one is guaranteed a slot in the beta so, while you're waiting on confirmation, why not check out some footage of the actual game in action? After that, you can start refreshing your inbox like mad.

[Via Massively]

JoystiqLEGO Universe beta constructed, signups begin originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>legolego-universemmonetdevilTue, 09 Feb 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix promotes Wii streaming with 'underwhelming' HD argument]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/netflix-promotes-wii-streaming-with-underwhelming-hd-argument/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/netflix-promotes-wii-streaming-with-underwhelming-hd-argument/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/netflix-promotes-wii-streaming-with-underwhelming-hd-argument/#comments If you've been following the Wii Netflix saga, you're probably familiar with Nintendo's stance on HD movie streaming. The company's Reggie Fils-Aimé recently went on record saying that the average Wii user won't care about the Wii's inability to push HD Netflix. That's expected though, right? He works for Nintendo, after all. But get this, now Netflix itself is deemphasizing its own HD streaming service.

Speaking to TheWiire.com, Netflix VP of Corporate Communications Steve Swasey recognized that the Wii can't handle HD streaming, but stated that Netflix doesn't believe that to be a problem for Wii households. Swasey noted that only 1 in 17 titles are available in HD, adding that HD content is only 720p -- not 1080p -- and that it's not available with 5.1 surround sound. "The HD experience at Netflix Instant Watching isn't that overwhelming," said Swasey, adding, "It's a little bit underwhelming."

So there you have it. There's absolutely no reason for anyone to even want HD streaming. Ever. Now go order your Wii Netflix disc.

JoystiqNetflix promotes Wii streaming with 'underwhelming' HD argument originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hdnetflixnintendostreaming-videoTue, 09 Feb 2010 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live Marketplace Feb. schedule includes $10 Battlefield 1943 [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/xbox-live-marketplace-feb-schedule-includes-10-battlefield-194/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/xbox-live-marketplace-feb-schedule-includes-10-battlefield-194/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/xbox-live-marketplace-feb-schedule-includes-10-battlefield-194/#comments
 Update: Microsoft has issued a correction on this schedule. The Misadventures of P. B. Winterbottom will be priced at 800 ($10), not 1200 ($15).

Major Nelson has a dropped a partial February schedule for Xbox Live Marketplace content, including a particularly nice Deal of the Week. Specifically, next week's deal, beginning February 15, will be Battlefield 1943 for only 800 ($10). If you've yet to pick up the game, $10 is definitely a good price. Also starting next week, both Resident Evil 5 and Beautiful Katamari will hit the Games on Demand service.

The post also notes that this week marks the end of the second season of 1 vs 100. Tonight's episode (9:00pm ET/6:00 pm PT) will feature Magda Apanowicz from SyFy's series Caprica. For the season finale this Friday (10:00pm ET/7:00 pm PT), the game will feature 343 Industries' Frank O'Connor and Bungie's Marty O'Donnell.

See the full XBLM schedule after the break.

Continue reading Xbox Live Marketplace Feb. schedule includes $10 Battlefield 1943 [update]

JoystiqXbox Live Marketplace Feb. schedule includes $10 Battlefield 1943 [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefieldbattlefield-1943deal-of-the-weekdicegames-on-demandrelease-datexblaxblmTue, 09 Feb 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Total War games 66% off on Steam this week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/total-war-games-66-off-on-steam-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/total-war-games-66-off-on-steam-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/total-war-games-66-off-on-steam-this-week/#comments Strategic war game buffs, take note: All of the Total War titles on Steam are receiving a massive discount this week, to the tune of a whopping 66 percent off. In fact, you can pick up the Total War Mega Pack, which includes Medieval II: Total War, Rome: Total War -- including the Alexander and Kingdoms expansions -- and Empire: Total War for $20.39. Additionally, the Empire: Total War Downloadable Content Pack, containing all the Empire content released thus far, is available for 10 percent off at $16.19.

Incidentally -- but probably not coincidentally -- the latest game in the series, Napoleon: Total War, releases February 23.

JoystiqTotal War games 66% off on Steam this week originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dealsmedieval-2-total-warnapoleon-total-warrome-total-warsalessegasteamthe-creative-assemblytotal-warTue, 09 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pachter: Call of Duty to decline $250 million in 2010]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/pachter-call-of-duty-to-decline-250-million-in-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/pachter-call-of-duty-to-decline-250-million-in-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/pachter-call-of-duty-to-decline-250-million-in-2010/#comments With Activision's holiday fiscal report expected to release this week, Wedbush Morgan analyst Michael Pachter is predicting that the Call of Duty profit machine may not repeat its fantastic 2009 performance this year. As reported by IndustryGamers, Pachter believes the Call of Duty franchise will generate "sharply lower revenue," in 2010, to the tune of a $250 million decline. Not to worry, though, as he notes that Activision is likely to more than make up for that amount thanks to Blizzard's impending releases (hello, StarCraft II). Aside from that, of course, it's important to remember that we're talking about a $250 million decrease on almost a billion dollars, so it's not like Pachter expects Call of Duty to wind up in the toilet.

It's worth noting that the previous Call of Duty title, World at War, initially outsold Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare, though Modern Warfare remained on top after the dust settled. Unsurprisingly to anyone paying attention, Modern Warfare 2 turned around to outsell the original Modern Warfare. Still, all three remain among the best selling games of all time, so maybe it's okay if the next one is only phenomenally successful.

JoystiqPachter: Call of Duty to decline $250 million in 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisioncall-of-dutycall-of-duty-world-at-warinfinity-wardmichael-pachtermodern-warfare-2treyarchMon, 08 Feb 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Brand sparking new Rocket Knight art]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/brand-sparking-new-rocket-knight-art/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/brand-sparking-new-rocket-knight-art/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/brand-sparking-new-rocket-knight-art/#comments
click to rocket-size
We're going to level with you: There's not a lot of new info to be found in the latest batch of character art from Konami's upcoming reboot of Rocket Knight. The press release does mention a few of Sparkster's abilities. While most should be familiar to players -- wall ricochet jumps, etc -- one new addition is the "burst vortex," which can reflect projectiles back toward enemies. Beyond that, however, we're left only with images of Emperor Sweinhart and Sparkster's nemesis, Axel Gear, both of whom can be seen above. Konami has also released a high resolution version of Sparkster himself.

Yes, it's not much but, when it comes to Rocket Knight, we'll take what we can get.

Gallery: Rocket Knight character art

JoystiqBrand sparking new Rocket Knight art originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>climaxkonamipsnrocket-knightsteamxblaMon, 08 Feb 2010 16:20:00 EST<![CDATA[This Wednesday: Darwinia+ invades XBLA]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/this-wednesday-darwinia-invades-xbla/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/this-wednesday-darwinia-invades-xbla/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/this-wednesday-darwinia-invades-xbla/#comments Well, folks, it's been a long wait but it's finally here. After first being rumored nearly four years ago, Darwinia+ is due to hit Xbox Live Arcade in only two more days. We're sure that the game's fans are pleased to hear the news, as is developer Introversion. After all, the company has a lot riding on Darwinia's XBLA outing.

The game features a single-player campaign, online multiplayer for four players and plenty of sweet, retro stylings. Taking cues from real-time strategy, god games and, oh, let's say Tron, Darwinia has players controlling squads of 2D sprite characters called Darwinians as they battle an evil computer virus. The original PC version of the game took home the grand prize at the 2006 Independent Games Festival.

The price of admission is 1200 ($15).

JoystiqThis Wednesday: Darwinia+ invades XBLA originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>darwiniadarwinia-plusintroversionxblaxblawednesdayMon, 08 Feb 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Apogee's Rise of the Triad getting ludicrous on iPhone]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/apogees-rise-of-the-triad-getting-ludicrous-on-iphone/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/apogees-rise-of-the-triad-getting-ludicrous-on-iphone/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/apogees-rise-of-the-triad-getting-ludicrous-on-iphone/#comments Apogee -- it's not dead yet! -- has announced that its cult classic first-person shooter, Rise of the Triad, is on its way to the iPhone OS. The game is being ported to the platform by Mobilia Interactive, which has produced a number of previous iPhone titles as well. The port actually surfaced over the summer last year, though it's now clear that the company has been given Apogee's blessing to sell the app. The game will work on every iPhone OS platform, including the iPhone, iPod Touch and the iPad. Expect to see it hit the App Store in "early 2010."

Check out a video of the game in action after the break. Tender viewers beware: The video contains ludicrous gibs.

Continue reading Apogee's Rise of the Triad getting ludicrous on iPhone

JoystiqApogee's Rise of the Triad getting ludicrous on iPhone originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apogeefpsmobilia-interactiverise-of-the-triadMon, 08 Feb 2010 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon: 360 Platinum Hits are buy 2, get 1 free for a limited time]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/amazon-360-platinum-hits-are-buy-2-get-1-free-for-a-limited-ti/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/amazon-360-platinum-hits-are-buy-2-get-1-free-for-a-limited-ti/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/amazon-360-platinum-hits-are-buy-2-get-1-free-for-a-limited-ti/#comments Just in time for Valentine's Day, Amazon is now offering a special buy two, get one free deal on Xbox 360 Platinum Hits titles. The deal is fairly straightforward: just pop three Platinum Hits games into your cart and the cheapest of the three will be knocked down to the wallet-friendly price of zero dollars. It's really the perfect excuse to pick up some great games you might have missed, especially considering many of them have sequels out this year -- notably Fable II, Halo 3, Fallout 3, Mass Effect, BioShock and Dead Rising. You'd better do it quick though, as the offer is only valid through February 13 and only while supplies last.

[Thanks, Goldenchild]

JoystiqAmazon: 360 Platinum Hits are buy 2, get 1 free for a limited time originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonbioshockbuy-two-get-onedead-risingdealfable-2fallout-3halo-3mass-effectplatinum-hitssalesalesMon, 08 Feb 2010 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Back of FFXIII box for 360 mentions DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/07/back-of-ffxiii-box-for-360-mentions-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/07/back-of-ffxiii-box-for-360-mentions-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/07/back-of-ffxiii-box-for-360-mentions-dlc/#comments It looks like that entire game's worth of removed content might be making it into Final Fantasy XIII after all. GameStop has posted the box art for the Xbox 360 version of the game and, more importantly, it has also posted the art for the back of the box. As you can see above, the box mentions that Final Fantasy XIII will support downloadable content after all, though there is no mention of what the DLC actually is. It's worth noting that the content could be something as simple as Avatar outfits or accessories, though it would certainly make sense for Square Enix to supply its most well-known franchise with post-launch DLC.

The news comes after producer Yoshinori Kitase was rumored to have stated that no DLC had been planned for the game, though he noted it was still "possible." Final Fantasy Union, however, notes that Kitase apparently confirmed DLC during a recent interview with the Dutch Official Playstation Magazine. The box art certainly seems to confirm that, though we've reached out to Square for clarification. As of this writing, GameStop has yet to post the art for the back of the PS3 version, so it's unclear if both platforms will support said content.

[Via Final Fantasy Union]

JoystiqBack of FFXIII box for 360 mentions DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 07 Feb 2010 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>digital-distributiondlcfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-xiiigamestopsquareSquare-Enixyoshinori-kitaseSun, 07 Feb 2010 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Molyneux: Fable 3 news at X10 will make you 'super pissed off']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/07/molyneux-fable-3-news-at-x10-will-make-you-super-pissed-off/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/07/molyneux-fable-3-news-at-x10-will-make-you-super-pissed-off/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/07/molyneux-fable-3-news-at-x10-will-make-you-super-pissed-off/#comments Speaking to Gamereactor, Lionhead maestro Peter Molyneux revealed that there will be some big Fable 3 news at the X10 event this week. "There's some very, very big things happening in Fable," said Molyneux, "Bigger than you think, and it's going to really upset people." Molyneux added that he is "really scared" about telling people the news, saying, "They're going to get super pissed off, they really are." Still, he concluded that it's "the right thing to do," and confirmed that he will be demonstrating the mystery announcement at X10 in San Francisco. Joystiq's theory: The entire story of Fable 2 was a dream sequence. Whatever it is, we'll be delivering the news directly from X10, so Joystiq's staff and readers can all get pissed off together.

In the meantime, be sure to watch the whole interview, which also contains some really interesting talk about Project Natal.

[Via VG247]

JoystiqMolyneux: Fable 3 news at X10 will make you 'super pissed off' originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 07 Feb 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fablefable-3lionheadlionhead-studiosmicrosoft-game-studiosnatalpeter-molyneuxproject-natalx10Sun, 07 Feb 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GameStop one of several retailers accused of deceptive advertising [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/06/gamestop-one-of-several-retailers-accused-of-deceptive-advertisi/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/06/gamestop-one-of-several-retailers-accused-of-deceptive-advertisi/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/06/gamestop-one-of-several-retailers-accused-of-deceptive-advertisi/#comments The office of New York Attorney General Andrew M. Cuomo is investigating several well-known retailers, including GameStop, for deceptive advertising practices. According to the office's announcement, GameStop and 21 other businesses are directing consumers to fraudulent discount programs where they unknowingly share credit card information with a third party. These third-party programs then place recurring charges on customers' accounts. "Well-known companies are tricking customers into accepting offers from third party vendors," said Cuomo, "which then siphon money from consumers' accounts."

Online movie ticket company Fandango has already agreed to stop the practice and pay $400,000 to a consumer redress fund. The Attorney General's office rightly warns that consumers should take care in reading all fine print when signing up for any kind of discount offer.

Are there any Joystiq readers out there that have run into this problem with GameStop? (You might want to check your credit card statement before you answer that.)

Update: For clarification, as some commenters have pointed out, the investigation applies to GameStop's online business, not its physical retail stores.

[Via GI.biz (account required)]

JoystiqGameStop one of several retailers accused of deceptive advertising [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 06 Feb 2010 00:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>andrew-cuomobusinessgamestoplawnew-yorkSat, 06 Feb 2010 00:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 120GB HDD discounted in the US too, again 'while supplies last']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/05/xbox-360-120gb-hdd-discounted-in-the-us-too-again-while-suppli/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/05/xbox-360-120gb-hdd-discounted-in-the-us-too-again-while-suppli/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/05/xbox-360-120gb-hdd-discounted-in-the-us-too-again-while-suppli/#comments After discovering that the Xbox 360 120GB hard drive has been discounted in Europe "while supplies last," Joystiq has now learned that the drive has been discounted in the United States as well. When asked if the European discount would make it overseas, a Microsoft representative informed Joystiq that the drive has been reduced to $129.99. Again, the rep noted that the discount will apply "while supplies last," which implies that the 120GB drive won't be around for much longer. When asked directly if the unit was being discontinued, the rep stated only that she couldn't comment.

It would seem that several retailers haven't gotten the memo, as many still list the drive at a $149 price point (the $129 price is listed on GameStop's website, for what it's worth). Of course, the drive can also be found much cheaper than the new $129 price, though readers should be aware that there is a very healthy knock-off hard drive market out there.

While Microsoft won't directly confirm that the 120GB is kaput, all signs are certainly pointing that way. The company has already announced that a 250GB standalone drive will be made available in Japan. With the price cut now effective in Europe and the US "while supplies last," it's likely only a matter of time before Microsoft announces the 250GB drive for other territories.

JoystiqXbox 360 120GB HDD discounted in the US too, again 'while supplies last' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 05 Feb 2010 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>120gb250gbhard-drivemicrosoftperipheralsFri, 05 Feb 2010 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Forza 3 director on 60fps, Gran Turismo 5]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/05/forza-3-director-on-60fps-gran-turismo-5/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/05/forza-3-director-on-60fps-gran-turismo-5/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/05/forza-3-director-on-60fps-gran-turismo-5/#comments VG247 has posted an interview with Forza Motorsport 3 director, Dan Greenwalt. Perhaps the most interesting bit is Greenwalt's explanation of why developer Turn 10 was so intent on making the game run at 60 frames per second. According to Greenwalt, racers that run at 30fps have "visual shuttering artifacts," which developers are forced to cover up with motion blur. This, he said, takes up GPU resources for other features. Beyond that, he noted that the 60fps benchmark was essential to the "feel" of the game and the responsive nature of the controls. "I'm sure you would get a similar response from Infinity Ward regarding Call of Duty," said Greenwalt.

When asked what he thought about Gran Turismo 5, and whether he was looking forward to it, Greenwalt said that "all good game developers look at what their competitors are doing." He stated that he has been "a long-time fan" of the series, though he added, "At this point, after so many missed releases, it's nearly impossible to say what GT5 will be or when it will ship." That said, Greenwalt believes that Gran Turismo 5 will be "a good racing game." Not exactly "No game competes with us," is it?

The interview also covers some interesting statistics, like the fact that players have driven over 1.1 billion miles in online Forza 3 races. Check out the full interview for more stats and insights on the game's development.

JoystiqForza 3 director on 60fps, Gran Turismo 5 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 05 Feb 2010 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>forzaforza-3forza-motorsportforza-motorsport-3gran-turismo-5microsoft-game-studiosFri, 05 Feb 2010 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Assassin's Creed 2 MP on iPhone isn't the teased multiplayer game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/04/assassins-creed-2-mp-on-iphone-isnt-the-teased-multiplayer-gam/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/04/assassins-creed-2-mp-on-iphone-isnt-the-teased-multiplayer-gam/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/04/assassins-creed-2-mp-on-iphone-isnt-the-teased-multiplayer-gam/#comments Okay, internet, deep breath. In. Out. Good. Now, the news: It turns out that the recently revealed iPhone title, Assassin's Creed II: Multiplayer, is totally, 100 percent NOT the multiplayer Assassin's Creed game that Ubisoft announced last month. While Ubisoft didn't see fit to respond to our (multiple) inquiries, the company informed MTV's Multiplayer that the two different projects are, in fact, two different projects. Specifically, when asked if the iPhone game and the multiplayer project were the same, an Ubisoft representative responded, "Nope."

Of course, that doesn't mean it's not another iPhone game. We'll just have to wait and see.

JoystiqAssassin's Creed 2 MP on iPhone isn't the teased multiplayer game originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Feb 2010 18:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>assassins-creedassassins-creed-2assassins-creed-2-multiplayerubisoftThu, 04 Feb 2010 18:10:00 EST<![CDATA[120GB Xbox 360 HDD discounted in Europe 'while supplies last']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/04/120gb-xbox-360-hdd-discounted-in-europe-while-supplies-last/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/04/120gb-xbox-360-hdd-discounted-in-europe-while-supplies-last/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/04/120gb-xbox-360-hdd-discounted-in-europe-while-supplies-last/#comments According to Eurogamer, Microsoft has announced that the Xbox 360 120GB hard drive has now been discounted to €129.99 ($180) in Europe and £79.99 ($125) in the UK. Curiously, the Microsoft representative appended "while supplies last" to the announcement, implying that the 120GB won't be around for much longer. This news comes on the heels of a standalone 250GB hard drive being announced for Japan. When asked whether that drive would release outside of Japan, Microsoft informed Joystiq that it had nothing to announce at the time.

If the separate 250GB drive did become available elsewhere and the 120GB were discontinued, consumers would have to choose between 60GB and 250GB add-ons. As Microsoft's typical strategy has been to replace the lowest end of its hardware spectrum, it would make more sense to discontinue the 60GB drive instead.

Then again, as we've learned time and again, sometimes that strategy can be typical Microsoft.

Joystiq120GB Xbox 360 HDD discounted in Europe 'while supplies last' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Feb 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>120gb250gb250gb-hddaccessorieseuropehard-drivehddukXbox-360Thu, 04 Feb 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Skate Reel servers totally bailing in March]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/04/skate-reel-servers-totally-bailing-in-march/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/04/skate-reel-servers-totally-bailing-in-march/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/04/skate-reel-servers-totally-bailing-in-march/#comments A quick note for anyone out there still clinging to the first iteration of EA's Skate: It's time to move on. EA has updated the page for Skate's Reel service, which allows users to upload and share videos of their in-game exploits. The update reads, quite simply, "Servers for the skate.Reel feature will be shut down on March 1st, 2010." It also notes that the game itself will still function properly, but users will no longer be able to upload videos to share either in-game or via the Skate website.

As tipster Cal points out, there are some Achievements related to uploading videos, so you'd better start capturing those sweet runs and massive bails before it's too late.

JoystiqSkate Reel servers totally bailing in March originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Feb 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>black-boxeaelectronic-artsonlinepsnskatexbox-liveThu, 04 Feb 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MotoGP dev keen on Natal head tracking, 3DTV]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/03/motogp-dev-keen-on-natal-head-tracking-3dtv/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/03/motogp-dev-keen-on-natal-head-tracking-3dtv/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/03/motogp-dev-keen-on-natal-head-tracking-3dtv/#comments Speaking to CVG, MotoGP lead designer Greg Bryant discussed the future of the series on both the Xbox 360 and PS3. Bryant said the development team plans to incorporate Natal support into MotoGP 10/11 in order to implement head tracking. According to Bryant, "the future for [Natal] is through head tracking in racing games." As for future iterations on the PS3, he noted that the team plans to use stereoscopic 3D and "theoretically" enable head tracking with the Playstation Eye.

Honestly, if it turns out anything like this, consider us stoked.

JoystiqMotoGP dev keen on Natal head tracking, 3DTV originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Feb 2010 22:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3-dcapcommoto-gpmotogp-1011natalplaystation-eyeproject-natalWed, 03 Feb 2010 22:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: AvP demo arriving this Thursday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/02/rumor-avp-demo-arriving-this-thursday/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/02/rumor-avp-demo-arriving-this-thursday/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/02/rumor-avp-demo-arriving-this-thursday/#comments According to tipster Mike, an ad for an Aliens vs Predator demo recently popped up in the Spotlight section of the Xbox 360 dashboard. The ad reportedly announced that the demo will be released February 4, this Thursday. Unfortunately, the ad has since been pulled, though AvPGalaxy reports finding the ad as well.

The site also notes that the demo will arrive on the same day for PSN and Steam as well, adding that an official announcement from Sega is forthcoming. Given that the game will be hitting retail shelves in just two weeks, the timing for the demo would certainly make sense.

We'll be sure to update this post if and when Sega makes things official. Update: it's official!

[Via Destructoid]

JoystiqRumor: AvP demo arriving this Thursday originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Feb 2010 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aliens-vs-predatoravpdemopsnrebellionrelease-datesegasteamxblmTue, 02 Feb 2010 18:15:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret World less secret: first in-game footage]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/02/the-secret-world-less-secret-first-in-game-footage/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/02/the-secret-world-less-secret-first-in-game-footage/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/02/the-secret-world-less-secret-first-in-game-footage/#comments Thanks to the video above, we now know more about Funcom's upcoming MMO The Secret World than ever before. And yet, that's still not saying much. The new trailer provides the first in-game footage, specifically showing off the town of Kingsmouth, a game location revealed last month. Of course, no sleepy New England town is complete without a dark secret, and Kingsmouth is no exception.

It seems an evil fog rolled into town one day, taking most of the townsfolk with it, leaving only a handful of unlucky survivors and ... zombies. They aren't your typical, garden variety zombies, though. No, these zombies never die, as the narrator explains, "Kill one, he'll rise in the morning. There's no getting rid of them." There's no telling if the actual game will hold up at this point, but the premise thus far is certainly intriguing.

JoystiqThe Secret World less secret: first in-game footage originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Feb 2010 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>funcommmoRagnar-Tornquistthe-secret-worldTue, 02 Feb 2010 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Analyst: Casual games not bad for the core]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/01/analyst-casual-games-not-bad-for-the-core/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/01/analyst-casual-games-not-bad-for-the-core/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/01/analyst-casual-games-not-bad-for-the-core/#comments First reaction: lolwhut? Of course casual gamerz haven't hurt the hardcore. Hardcore have mad skillz.

Second, more thoughtful reaction: Oh -- Cowen and Company's Doug Creutz was speaking in terms of business. That makes a little more sense. Speaking to Edge, Creutz espoused his belief that "non-traditional" formats like the iPhone and social gaming have not hurt the core gaming market. Rather, said Creutz, "We believe that these newer gaming media represent a distinct and non-competitive market segment from console gaming, which is dominated by the core gamer." He elaborated that while casual titles didn't fare as well in 2009, the sales of core titles were still strong (a reasonable belief).

According to Creutz, the "difficulties" faced by the industry are the result of the "relatively slow uptake" of the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, thanks in large part to their high price points. However, now that both the PS3 and 360 have reached mass market prices, the console cycle will "reaccelerate to the benefit of the publishers that are positioned to take advantage."

Creutz sentiments seem to be in line with many of the major game publishers, as both Capcom and EA have expressed dissatisfaction with the Wii market, with a Capcom spokesperson outright declaring, "If you're not Nintendo, it does seem harder to make money on the Wii today compared to the PS3 and the Xbox 360". Meanwhile, Ubisoft has announced that it plans to "refocus" its efforts on the Xbox 360 and PS3 in 2010.

JoystiqAnalyst: Casual games not bad for the core originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 01 Feb 2010 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesscapcomcasualdoug-creutzeasocial-gamesubisoftMon, 01 Feb 2010 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[250GB Xbox 360 HDD headed to Japan in March [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/01/250gb-xbox-360-hdd-headed-to-japan-in-march/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/01/250gb-xbox-360-hdd-headed-to-japan-in-march/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/01/250gb-xbox-360-hdd-headed-to-japan-in-march/#comments Update: When asked whether the 250GB drive would release outside of Japan, Microsoft has informed Joystiq that it has "nothing to announce" at this time.

Microsoft has announced (translation) that it will release a standalone 250GB hard drive in Japan later this year. The drive - which carries a price tag of ¥15,540 (~$170) - is set to be released on March 11. On the same day, the company will also be releasing the Wireless Controller Game Pack and the Xbox 360 Wireless N adapter.

This will mark the first time that Microsoft has released the 250GB hard drive as a standalone product. Thus far, the 250GB model has only been available as part of certain bundles such as the Modern Warfare 2 bundle released in 2009. Previously, Microsoft's Albert Penello noted Microsoft didn't have any specific plans to release the 250GB drive by itself, though he did note the possibility. While this particular drive is currently slated only for Japan, it seems likely that other territories will follow.

We've contacted Microsoft regarding any North American or European release plans and will update this post with any new info.

Joystiq250GB Xbox 360 HDD headed to Japan in March [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 01 Feb 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>250gb250gb-hddaccessorieshardwarejapanmicrosoftxboxxbox-360Mon, 01 Feb 2010 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Steam has over 25 million subscribers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/steam-has-over-25-million-subscribers-other-tidbits-j/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/steam-has-over-25-million-subscribers-other-tidbits-j/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/steam-has-over-25-million-subscribers-other-tidbits-j/#comments Valve has announced that its digital distribution and community service, Steam, surpassed 25 million members in 2009. That's a 25-percent increase over 2008, according to Valve, with the company adding that 10 million of those members have created community profiles. Furthermore, December saw the number of simultaneous users pass 2.5 million, while average monthly gaming minutes passed 13 billion. The press release doesn't disclose specific financial numbers, though it does note that overall sales are up 225 percent over 2008, "marking the fifth straight year the platform has realized over 100 percent year-over-year growth in unit sales."

This part of the our blog post, incidentally, is where we insert a joke about the fact that Half-Life 2: Episode 3 still hasn't been released.

JoystiqSteam has over 25 million subscribers originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Jan 2010 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesssalessteamvalveFri, 29 Jan 2010 18:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii sales surpass NES; DS Nintendo's best-selling hardware ever]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/wii-sales-surpass-nes-ds-nintendos-best-selling-hardware-ever/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/wii-sales-surpass-nes-ds-nintendos-best-selling-hardware-ever/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/wii-sales-surpass-nes-ds-nintendos-best-selling-hardware-ever/#comments
In addition to revealing its latest financial figures, Nintendo has released some interesting facts about its two star performers, the Wii and DS. As revealed in the financials, the Wii has sold over 67 million units since its launch in 2006. Putting that in context, Nintendo reveals that the original Nintendo Entertainment System sold 61.91 units in its lifetime, which now makes the Wii the company's most successful console of all time. As for the DS, it has now sold 125.13 million units, surpassing Game Boy and Game Boy Color lifetime sales of 118.69 million units. That makes the DS Nintendo's most successful piece of hardware ever.

It's important to point out that Nintendo counts all four iterations of the DS in its life-to-date sales numbers. Considering each version has a number of improvements over previous versions, we're sure there's plenty of overlap among consumers. Still, there's no denying that Nintendo's latest hardware lineup has been incredibly successful, even if it was slightly less successful in 2009.

[Via Shacknews]

JoystiqWii sales surpass NES; DS Nintendo's best-selling hardware ever originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Jan 2010 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dslife-to-datenintendosaleswiiFri, 29 Jan 2010 18:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Star Wars Battlefront: Online in the works]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/rumor-star-wars-battlefront-online-in-the-works/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/rumor-star-wars-battlefront-online-in-the-works/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/rumor-star-wars-battlefront-online-in-the-works/#comments The development of Star Wars Battlefront III has been rocky, to say the least. Work began at Free Radical before Crytek snapped up the company, then the game was rumored to be in Rebellion's care before it eventually dropped from the face of the earth. Meanwhile Pandemic, the recently shuttered studio behind the first two games, apparently had nothing to do with the title at all.

The latest rumor, courtesy of Kotaku, puts development of a brand new Battlefront project, entitled Star Wars Battlefront: Online, in the hands of Slant Six Games and LucasArts. Slant Six is the studio behind several games in the SOCOM tactical-shooter series, making it a reasonable candidate for a Battlefront developer. The game will reportedly arrive in 2011 on PS3 and Xbox 360. It will focus on online play and, presumably, Star Wars. According to Kotaku, Star Wars Battlefront: Online is also the source of the Star Wars Battlefront III casting rumors that popped up last December.

JoystiqRumor: Star Wars Battlefront: Online in the works originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Jan 2010 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lucasartsrumorslant-sixslant-six-gamesstar-wars-battlefrontstar-wars-battlefront-3star-wars-battlefront-onlineFri, 29 Jan 2010 17:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect 2 amasses two million units shipped]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/mass-effect-2-amasses-two-million-units-shipped/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/mass-effect-2-amasses-two-million-units-shipped/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/mass-effect-2-amasses-two-million-units-shipped/#comments Let me tell you something. It's rough being one of the few Joystiq editors that isn't currently knee-deep in the space-faring magic of Mass Effect 2. The constant insults, the pointing and laughing, the threats on my life; it gets old really fast. And now Electronic Arts has to announce that Mass Effect 2 has already shipped two million units worldwide in its first week. The press release also notes that the game has earned more than 40 perfect review scores. And, of course, the Joystiq review drips with effusive, well-earned praise. I get it, okay? I need to play it, and I will, just as soon as I finish the first Mass Effect.

Oh, gotta go. Looks like Justin is putting another stink bomb in my lunch box.

JoystiqMass Effect 2 amasses two million units shipped originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Jan 2010 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareelectronic-artsmass-effectmass-effect-2salesFri, 29 Jan 2010 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Telltale porting its games to Mac, hints at iPad]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/28/report-telltale-porting-its-games-to-mac-hints-at-ipad/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/28/report-telltale-porting-its-games-to-mac-hints-at-ipad/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/28/report-telltale-porting-its-games-to-mac-hints-at-ipad/#comments According to Mac|Life, Telltale will begin supporting the Mac platform starting on Febrary 8 with Tales of Monkey Island -- and, as what can only be described as a great idea, gamers will be able to download both the Mac and PC versions of Telltale's games for one price. In other words, you won't have to worry about which version you buy, because you'll be getting both. Tales of Monkey Island is to be the first title to receive Mac support, with Sam & Max, Wallace & Gromit and Strong Bad to follow (supposedly in that order, by the way). Both seasons of Sam & Max should arrive within "several weeks" of Tales of Monkey Island, with the others arriving in the following months, the site writes.

The report also mentions that Telltale plans to convert its entire catalog -- with the exception of Bone and Texas Hold 'Em -- according to Mac|Life. Its Telltale source declined to confirm if ports are on their way to the iPhone or iPad as well, though he did reiterate Telltale's desire to expand to as many platforms as possible.

When reached for comment by Joystiq, a Telltale representative called the report "totally unconfirmed," adding that potential iPhone or iPad support is "total speculation" at this point. According to the Mac|Life report, Telltale will be showing off its Mac titles at the Macworld Expo on February 11, so you can bet we'll be stopping by to find out.

JoystiqReport: Telltale porting its games to Mac, hints at iPad originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Jan 2010 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ipadmacmonkey-islandsam-and-maxstrong-badstrong-bads-cool-game-for-attractive-peopletales-of-monkey-islandwallace-and-gromitWallace-and-Gromits-Grand-AdventuresThu, 28 Jan 2010 18:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Excella and Josh in Resident Evil 5: Gold Edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/28/video-excella-and-josh-in-resident-evil-5-gold-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/28/video-excella-and-josh-in-resident-evil-5-gold-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/28/video-excella-and-josh-in-resident-evil-5-gold-edition/#commentsAfter announcing Excella Gionne as a playable character in the Mercenaries Reunion mode in Resident Evil 5: Gold Edition, Capcom has now released a video of Excella in action. Even in motion (perhaps especially in motion), it all seems just a tad silly. There's something incongruous about a woman in an evening gown and heels bringing the pain to swarms of zombies. She certainly never showed off her zombie-slaying abilities in the game proper. Still, that's probably beside the point.

Capcom also released a video of Josh Stone in the Mercenaries Reunion mode. He seems a little more at home, cheesy catchphrases included. See him in action after the break. Resident Evil 5: Gold Edition DLC lands on PSN and XBLM in February, with a retail release set for March.

Continue reading Video: Excella and Josh in Resident Evil 5: Gold Edition

JoystiqVideo: Excella and Josh in Resident Evil 5: Gold Edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Jan 2010 17:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomresident-evil-5resident-evil-5-alternative-editionresident-evil-5-gold-editionThu, 28 Jan 2010 17:21:00 EST<![CDATA[No dedicated servers or LAN play for BioShock 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/28/no-dedicated-servers-or-lan-play-for-bioshock-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/28/no-dedicated-servers-or-lan-play-for-bioshock-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/28/no-dedicated-servers-or-lan-play-for-bioshock-2/#comments Over on The Cult of Rapture, 2K Marin has posted a Q&A on BioShock 2 multiplayer. First of all, on all platforms, the game doesn't have distinct ranked and unranked multiplayer options. All public matches, including those played with friends, will be ranked and posted to leaderboards. Meanwhile, private, invite-only matches will not post to leaderboards. The game will also keep friends on the same teams and employs a matchmaking system to find opponents of similar skill levels. Also, the game does not include an option to kick troublesome players. 2K Marin suggests that players report any cheaters and griefers, quit and find a different match.

And now for the big one: BioShock 2 does not support dedicated servers or LAN play on any platform. According to 2K Marin, the development schedule didn't allow enough time to create a solid multiplayer component and implement dedicated servers and LAN play. The site reads, "We chose to spend the time we had creating a solid game foundation and unfortunately that did not include LAN play or dedicated servers." So there you have it.

JoystiqNo dedicated servers or LAN play for BioShock 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Jan 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-games2k-marinbioshockbioshock-2dedicated-servermultiplayerThu, 28 Jan 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tecmo sees 'opportunity' in expanding audience, pursuing women]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/28/tecmo-sees-opportunity-in-expanding-audience-pursuing-women/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/28/tecmo-sees-opportunity-in-expanding-audience-pursuing-women/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/28/tecmo-sees-opportunity-in-expanding-audience-pursuing-women/#comments Speaking to Edge, Tecmo's Quantum Theory development team had a few things to say about the Japanese game market, expanding its audience and, of course, Quantum Theory. According to producer Yasuo Egawa, the Japanese game market is shrinking, though the global gaming audience is expanding. "We've been trying to target customers who haven't bought Tecmo games before," says Egawa, "specifically women." Given Tecmo's offerings over the last few years, it's hard not to find that just a little hilarious.

Regarding Quantum Theory itself, the company sees the game as its "third pillar" alongside Ninja Gaiden and Dead or Alive. Character designer Hiroyuki Yazaki notes that Quantum Theory is a departure from other shooters thanks to its AI-controlled female sidekick, Filena. Yazaki states that most shooters are "full of men; big, sweaty men," which lead Tecmo to design a "softer character" for the game. Yazaki adds, "We're Tecmo - we're good at female characters!" Again, just a little hilarious.

JoystiqTecmo sees 'opportunity' in expanding audience, pursuing women originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Jan 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-or-alivejapankoei-tecmoninja-gaidenquantum-theorytecmoThu, 28 Jan 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Red Dead Redemption weapons detailed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/28/video-red-dead-redemption-weapons-detailed/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/28/video-red-dead-redemption-weapons-detailed/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/28/video-red-dead-redemption-weapons-detailed/#comments Rockstar has released the second in its Red Dead Redemption gameplay video series. The new video, titled "Weapons & Death," deals with the various weapons found in the game. The game includes pretty much everything one would expect in a Wild West shooter, ranging from rifles to revolvers to Gatling guns and even dynamite. Unsurprisingly, Red Dead Redemption takes advantage of Rockstar's RAGE engine as well as NaturalMotion's Euphoria physics engine. The end result is unique character reactions to in-game actions like, say, getting shot in the gut.

The video also details the Dead Eye targeting system, which allows players to slow down gameplay and paint targets. It behaves similarly to the "mark and execute" system in Splinter Cell: Conviction, which lets players mark several targets and take them down in rapid succession. It all looks very nifty and, thanks to the same classy narrator from the first video, it still feels educational. Remember that when your significant other / mother / teacher chastises you for playing too much. You're not just shooting cowpokes, you're learning about the Wild West.

JoystiqVideo: Red Dead Redemption weapons detailed originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Jan 2010 14:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>red-dead-redemptionrockstartake-twoThu, 28 Jan 2010 14:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Ubisoft UK MD talks 2010, warns against rising prices]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/27/ubisoft-uk-md-talks-2010-warns-against-rising-prices/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/27/ubisoft-uk-md-talks-2010-warns-against-rising-prices/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/27/ubisoft-uk-md-talks-2010-warns-against-rising-prices/#comments Writing for MCV, Ubisoft managing director Rob Cooper has laid out his company's hopes for the UK game industry in the next decade. He writes a great deal on ELSPA's role in championing the industry to the UK government, specifically regarding things like tax breaks and game rating issues. Regarding an issue closer to gamers' hearts, Cooper discussed where games are headed in the years to come. "Where once fuzzy pixels danced around on the screen," says Cooper, "now we expect everything from the visuals and sound effects to the dialogue of our characters - along with the emotions they can portray - to be more finely tuned."

He cautions the industry however, noting that such finely tuned products require higher studio costs. He elaborates that there is "no point" in raising game budgets if they cause profits to dwindle or, more importantly for consumers, cause prices to become "horrifically high." We're inclined to agree.

It's an interesting piece, and definitely worth a read for anyone who enjoys a little inside baseball.

JoystiqUbisoft UK MD talks 2010, warns against rising prices originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Jan 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>elspatax-breaksubisoftukWed, 27 Jan 2010 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Analysts: Gamers won't care about iPad]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/27/analysts-gamers-wont-care-about-ipad/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/27/analysts-gamers-wont-care-about-ipad/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/27/analysts-gamers-wont-care-about-ipad/#comments
Now that the gaming public at large has had a chance to discuss Apple's iPad, it's for the analysts to weigh in. Speaking with IndustryGamers, prior to the iPad announcement, Wedbush Morgan analyst Michael Pachter intimated that he didn't expect the tablet set the gaming world on fire. "It's going to have limited appeal to gamers, although some people will buy it obviously," said Pachter. He elaborated that the device could affect Nintendo's DS, though. In the end, however, Pachter expects the iPad to benefit the iPod Touch, thanks to a "cross-fertilization of games" between the platforms.

Meanwhile, EEDAR's Jesse Divnich, speaking after the iPad announcement, said that iPad games would likely have to cost $20 for publishers to "treat the iPad as a serious gaming device." Divnich noted to the low barrier of entry on the iPad / iPod as the sticking point, saying that big publishers have a hard time competing with indie developers that can sell games at rock-bottom prices.

He further elaborated that the competition on the App Store stifles big publisher profits, which in turn stifles innovation. "The lower the profit potential, the less resources and desires there are to push gaming standards ahead." Frankly, that point of view seems to neglect that many low-budget indie games do push gaming standards ahead, but that's another post altogether.

The point is, it looks like gamers may not be flocking to the iPad. Honestly, we could have told you that, as the above snippet from Joystiq's company chatroom demonstrates.

JoystiqAnalysts: Gamers won't care about iPad originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Jan 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analystappleeedaripadmichael-pachterWed, 27 Jan 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[UK PS3 sales surpass 3 million]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/25/uk-ps3-sales-surpass-3-million/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/25/uk-ps3-sales-surpass-3-million/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/25/uk-ps3-sales-surpass-3-million/#comments Sony Computer Entertainment Europe has announced that sales of the PlayStation 3 have eclipsed three million units in the United Kingdom. Speaking to MCV, an SCEE spokesperson noted that the company is "delighted" by the news. Pointing to a strong lineup of software, including God of War III and Heavy Rain -- both rumored to be receiving PS3 bundles in Europe -- as well as the upcoming PS3 motion controller, the rep added that the three million milestone is "a great way to start the year."

So, once again, the price cut seems like it was probably a pretty good idea. Assuming Sony can keep up the momentum and deliver on a few promises, 2010 just might be a banner year for the PlayStation 3.

JoystiqUK PS3 sales surpass 3 million originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Jan 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesssceesonyukMon, 25 Jan 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online beta extended by one day]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/25/star-trek-online-beta-extended-by-one-day/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/25/star-trek-online-beta-extended-by-one-day/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/25/star-trek-online-beta-extended-by-one-day/#comments
MESSAGE BEGINS

Attention to all members of Starfleet. It has come to the attention of Starfleet's admiralty that the recent Borg activity in the Vega system has resulted in several thousand ensigns suddenly being promoted to the rank of captain. A very strange turn of events, to be sure, though Starfleet is no stranger to such events. Just last week, we encountered a race of people that spoke entirely in metaphor. Crazy, right?

In related Starfleet news, a spacetime anomaly (yes, another one) has manufactured an additional day of what we perceive as time. Please note that there is no need to adjust your ship's internal chronometer. The upshot of all this is that the Star Trek Online beta has been extended by twenty-four hours and will now end at 1800 hours (6:00pm Pacific), January 26. We would advise the thousands of improbable new captains to use this time wisely.

MESSAGE ENDS

[Via Blue's News. Image source: Alex Piskun]

JoystiqStar Trek Online beta extended by one day originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Jan 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ataricryptic-studiosmmostar-trekstar-trek-onlineMon, 25 Jan 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Funcom's The Secret World gets a weird website]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/25/funcoms-the-secret-world-gets-a-weird-website/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/25/funcoms-the-secret-world-gets-a-weird-website/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/25/funcoms-the-secret-world-gets-a-weird-website/#comments Since it was first revealed back in 2007, there really hasn't been a lot of information released about Funcom's upcoming MMO The Secret World. We've learned a bit about its factions, enjoyed a handful of screenshots and watched a couple of nifty trailers (embedded after the break, for your convenience). Now, Funcom has opened a website for one of the game's locations, a sleepy New England town (yes, another one) by the name of Kingsmouth. The website is designed as though it were made by an actual chamber of commerce, including plenty of low resolution photos and awkwardly placed Google ads. According to Joystiq's sister site Massively, the site is also full of references to H.P. Lovecraft, which seems appropriate given the otherworldly nature of the game.

There is what appears to be a handful of screenshots in the site's gallery section, and the news section also mentions planning for "Kingsmouth Day 2010," which is set to go down on Saturday, April 3. Whether or not anything will actually happen on that day is anyone's guess.

Gallery: The Secret World (screenshots)

tsw_screen_1tsw_screen_2tsw_screen_3tsw_screen_4

Continue reading Funcom's The Secret World gets a weird website

JoystiqFuncom's The Secret World gets a weird website originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Jan 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>argfuncomkingsmouthRagnar-Tornquistthe-secret-worldMon, 25 Jan 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Everquest, Free Realms players raise $25,000 for Haiti]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/22/everquest-free-realms-players-raise-25-000-for-haiti/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/22/everquest-free-realms-players-raise-25-000-for-haiti/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/22/everquest-free-realms-players-raise-25-000-for-haiti/#comments Sony Online Entertainment has announced that it has donated $25,000 in aid to the victim's of the tragic Haiti earthquake. The money was raised with the help of Everquest, Everquest II and Free Realms players via the purchase of special in-game items. For every item purchased -- each item was priced at $5 -- Sony Online Entertainment donated $10 to the American Red Cross Haiti Relief and Development fund. The sum, raised in only three days, should aid in sending much needed supplies, relief workers, and financial support. A commendable effort, to be sure.

Joystiq readers can find ways to help Haiti by following this link. Also remember that all DLC proceeds for Behemoth games go to the Red Cross this weekend.

JoystiqEverquest, Free Realms players raise $25,000 for Haiti originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Jan 2010 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>everquesteverquest-2free-realmshaitisoesony-online-entertainmentFri, 22 Jan 2010 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Reuters: Video games are for adults, too]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/22/reuters-video-games-are-for-adults-too/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/22/reuters-video-games-are-for-adults-too/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/22/reuters-video-games-are-for-adults-too/#comments
Probably the best way to read the Reuters article entitled "New arsenal of shooter games target older players" is to imagine it being reported live by your local news station. You know, the same way local news stations tend to report the latest technological innovations -- Twitter, for example -- months or even years after their invention. The article is filled with inaccurate (and downright false) information, no doubt intended to thrill and mystify anyone that just upgraded to a 56k modem (congrats, by the way).

One statement likely to jump out at anyone even remotely familiar with games: "The popularity of shooter games has been proven by Activision Blizzard's 'Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2' which has raked in over $1 billion (617 million pounds) worldwide and counting." Sure, Modern Warfare 2 is a blockbuster success, but it's hardly the first multi-million selling shooter in the last decade. Another tidbit claims that MAG's 256-player multiplayer is "the largest multiplayer experience for a video game." We're assuming this statement excludes, oh, every MMO ever made.

The best assertion in the piece, however, is that today's games are "not all for children," which is offered as though it's some kind of revelation. Honestly, there are no words for that one, so we'll just leave it to Captain Picard.

[Via Aeropause]

JoystiqReuters: Video games are for adults, too originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Jan 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessfacepalmindustrymodern-warfare-2reutersFri, 22 Jan 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Darwinia dev on PSN/XBLA differences, PSN challenges]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/22/darwinia-dev-on-psn-xbla-differences-psn-challenges/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/22/darwinia-dev-on-psn-xbla-differences-psn-challenges/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/22/darwinia-dev-on-psn-xbla-differences-psn-challenges/#comments Speaking to CVG, Darwinia+ developer Introversion spoke to the differences between Xbox Live Arcade and PSN, as well as the realities of game development. Regarding why Darwinia+ is an XBLA exclusive, Introversion's Mark Morris noted that independent developers "have to go with whatever [they're] offered," though he'd like to see the game on both platforms. According to Morris, XBLA is preferable because Microsoft greenlight's games from the beginning. "As long as you deliver what you said you'd deliver you're going to launch," said Morris, whereas Sony approves a potential PSN project later in the process, meaning a developer's hard work could eventually be rejected.

Concerning Introversion's current status, Morris noted that the company's future is riding entirely on Darwinia+. He said the game has a "minimum sales figure" that "has to be achieved." If not, said Morris, "Then we don't have enough money to continue going - simple as that." That said, he added that Darwinia+ doesn't have to be a "a massive runaway success," elaborating that performance would have to be roughly equivalent to Jeff Minter's Space Giraffe (an achievable goal if we've ever heard one).

Assuming Introversion stays afloat, its next project will be called Subversion, which utilizes automatic city generation. The developer has previously hinted that Subversion may release on both PC and XBLA.

JoystiqDarwinia dev on PSN/XBLA differences, PSN challenges originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Jan 2010 19:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessdarwiniadarwinia+introversionpsnsubversionFri, 22 Jan 2010 19:26:00 EST