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[Bitmob explores the world of video game voice acting]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/19/bitmob-explores-the-world-of-video-game-voice-acting/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/19/bitmob-explores-the-world-of-video-game-voice-acting/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/19/bitmob-explores-the-world-of-video-game-voice-acting/#comments Bitmob's Aaron Thomas was recently offered the chance to record some crowd chatter for Major League Baseball 2K10, and he used the opportunity to describe the process of recording video game voice over. Reading his lines off of a television screen, and given situational prompts for each line -- bases loaded, etc. -- Thomas screamed around 300 lines for the game. As an added bonus, 2K sent samples of Thomas' work mixed with ambient crowd noise, giving us all the opportunity to see what the final product sounds like.

It's a neat look into the world of video game voice acting, as well as sound production in general. If you've ever been curious about how it's done, take a look. Just don't expect Thomas to be putting Nolan North out of a job anytime soon.

JoystiqBitmob explores the world of video game voice acting originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 19 Dec 2009 04:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Aaron-ThomasbusinesscultureMLB-2K10voice-actingSat, 19 Dec 2009 04:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Bayonetta trailer invents unsettling new term: 'hair moves']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/18/bayonetta-trailer-invents-unsettling-new-term-hair-moves/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/18/bayonetta-trailer-invents-unsettling-new-term-hair-moves/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/18/bayonetta-trailer-invents-unsettling-new-term-hair-moves/#comments Thus far, Bayonetta has exposed us to a litany of disturbing oddities. First we were exposed to the expression "non-stop climax action." Then came the uncomfortable revelation of Bayonetta's "sexy" dancing. And now, we must forever live with the term "hair moves." As the ancient Egyptians figured out long ago, hair is gross. Short of the occasional Rita Hayworth hair toss, hair really shouldn't be moving at all. And it certainly shouldn't be transforming into giant boots, fists or demons.

Alas, this is the proposition you face should you desire to play Bayonetta. You've been warned.

JoystiqBayonetta trailer invents unsettling new term: 'hair moves' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Dec 2009 20:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bayonettahair-movesplatinum-gamessegaFri, 18 Dec 2009 20:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Traveler's Tales director assesses Sony and Microsoft motion control]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/18/travelers-tales-director-assesses-sony-and-microsoft-motion-con/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/18/travelers-tales-director-assesses-sony-and-microsoft-motion-con/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/18/travelers-tales-director-assesses-sony-and-microsoft-motion-con/#comments Speaking to Develop, Traveller's Tales director Jon Burton voiced concerns about Microsoft's motion control solution, Project Natal. Specifically, Burton stated that Natal's lack of controller input as well as input lag could limit the kinds of games made for it, though he did admit that the device is "exceedingly clever." Burton prefers Sony's motion controller, noting that it will be "cheap, accurate and will put buttons at your fingertips," which should make it suitable for a wide range of games.

Still, Burton admits he was "stunned" by the technical wizardry of Natal. With the experience of having his own motion capture studio at TT, Burton states that getting "anything resembling mo-cap" in real-time from a single camera is "nothing short of amazing."

For what it's worth, Burton has not used a final version of the device. We noted Natal's input lag when we tried it at TGS earlier this year, where Microsoft's Kudo Tsunoda assured us the final product would iron out, or at least ameliorate, the issue.

JoystiqTraveler's Tales director assesses Sony and Microsoft motion control originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Dec 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Jon-Burtonnatalplaystation-motion-controllerproject-nataltravellers-talesFri, 18 Dec 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Split/Second destroys the track in May 2010]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/18/split-second-destroys-the-track-in-may-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/18/split-second-destroys-the-track-in-may-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/18/split-second-destroys-the-track-in-may-2010/#comments Split/Second now has a much narrower release window, having been winnowed from a vague '2010' to a much more manageable 'May 2010,' according to CVG (and confirmed by Joystiq with Disney Interactive).

For those who haven't been keeping up with it, Split/Second is a racing game that lets players use the environment against their opponents. For example, you can cause a whole building to topple directly onto the road, thus changing the course of the race -- and possibly crushing a few opponents in the process. In short, it's great fun, to which our E3 hands-on can attest. Fans of racing and big explosions may want to mark their Michael Bay Swimsuit calendars pronto.

JoystiqSplit/Second destroys the track in May 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Dec 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>black-rockblack-rock-studioblack-rock-studiosdisney-interactivedisney-interactive-studiosrelease-datesplit-secondFri, 18 Dec 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Splinter Cell Conviction trailer reveals co-op campaign]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/17/new-splinter-cell-conviction-trailer-reveals-co-op-campaign/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/17/new-splinter-cell-conviction-trailer-reveals-co-op-campaign/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/17/new-splinter-cell-conviction-trailer-reveals-co-op-campaign/#comments A new trailer for Splinter Cell Conviction has landed on Xbox Live, giving us the first official reveal of the rumored co-op mode. The game will feature an entire co-op campaign, which will serve as a prequel to the single-player story of Sam Fisher taking on his old organization, Third Echelon. The co-op campaign stars two special agents, an American Third Echelon agent named Archer and a Russian Voron agent named Kestrel. From what we can glean from the trailer, the two agents are paired up to stop a "rogue element within the Russian military" who has acquired "advanced warheads" to sell on the black market.

They do this by sneaking, killing hapless guards and blowing things up. In short, it looks like a lot of fun. Download the trailer yourself -- using the handy link below -- and expect some fresh impressions of the game right here on Joystiq very, very soon.

Shortcut: Add the Splinter Cell Conviction co-op trailer to your 360 download queue [Via Xbox.com]

JoystiqNew Splinter Cell Conviction trailer reveals co-op campaign originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 Dec 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionco-opSplinter-Cellsplinter-cell-convictionstealthubisoftubisoft-montrealThu, 17 Dec 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online trailer packs explosions, thoughtful narration]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/14/star-trek-online-trailer-packs-explosions-thoughtful-narration/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/14/star-trek-online-trailer-packs-explosions-thoughtful-narration/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/14/star-trek-online-trailer-packs-explosions-thoughtful-narration/#commentsAtari has released yet another new trailer for Cryptic's upcoming MMO, Star Trek Online. The trailer features a particularly grim entry in a Starfleet admiral's log. Long story short, the battle between the Klingons and the Federation in the space surrounding starbase 24 isn't going too well. On the plus side, it makes for some great viewing, with lots of phasers, disruptors, torpedos and, most importantly, explosions.

Alas, it looks like the ol' "STO Assets" folder is still slated for quite a beating before the game finally releases in February.

JoystiqStar Trek Online trailer packs explosions, thoughtful narration originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Dec 2009 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ataricrypticcryptic-studiosmmoStar-Trekstar-trek-onlineMon, 14 Dec 2009 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[This Wednesday: Alien Breed Evolution brings about Puzzlegeddon on XBLA]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/14/this-wednesday-alien-breed-evolution-brings-about-puzzlegeddon/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/14/this-wednesday-alien-breed-evolution-brings-about-puzzlegeddon/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/14/this-wednesday-alien-breed-evolution-brings-about-puzzlegeddon/#comments It looks like we get more than the previously announced Alien Breed Evolution on XBLA this week, as Major Nelson has revealed that it will be joined by Puzzlegeddon from Tecmo. Despite its apocalyptic name, Puzzlegeddon sports an entirely cheery disposition, complete with lots of bright colors and bubbly music. The PC version previously received some decent reviews, and we've certainly been roped in by cute puzzle games in the past.

Alien Breed Evolution and Puzzlegeddon will run you 800 ($10) apiece.

JoystiqThis Wednesday: Alien Breed Evolution brings about Puzzlegeddon on XBLA originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Dec 2009 19:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alien-breed-evolutionpieces-interactivepuzzlegeddonteam17tecmoxblaXblaWednesdayMon, 14 Dec 2009 19:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Darksiders trailer brings nothing but Ruin]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/11/darksiders-trailer-brings-nothing-but-ruin/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/11/darksiders-trailer-brings-nothing-but-ruin/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/11/darksiders-trailer-brings-nothing-but-ruin/#commentsIf there's one thing we learned at E3, it's that Ruin, the Hellish steed of Darksiders, is not meant to be ridden by ordinary mortals. While we learned this firsthand, you can be saved the risk of serious bodily harm by simply watching the trailer embedded above. It explains that Ruin is "born of smoke and flame," which really should be the first clue that it's not the horse for you. It is, however, the perfect horse for a horseman of the apocalypse.

Watch the trailer for plenty of Ruin, as well as some of the other beasties you'll be riding in Darksiders.

JoystiqDarksiders trailer brings nothing but Ruin originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 Dec 2009 20:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>darksidersthqvigil-gamesFri, 11 Dec 2009 20:45:00 EST<![CDATA[XBLM December deals: Cheap Shadow Complex, Maw]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/10/xblm-december-deals-cheap-shadow-complex-maw/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/10/xblm-december-deals-cheap-shadow-complex-maw/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/10/xblm-december-deals-cheap-shadow-complex-maw/#comments Microsoft has announced the Xbox Live Marketplace content schedule for December and it's a real doozy. The Deals of the Week -- usually a haven for long-forgotten or unwanted DLC -- are actually real deals this month. In particular, Shadow Complex will be dropped from 1200 ($15) to 800 ($10) during the week of December 21. The following week, starting December 28, Twisted Pixel's The Maw will fall from 800 ($10) to a miniscule 400 ($5).

In addition to the normal Deals of the Week, Microsoft will also be offering daily deals from December 18-31. The company didn't specify what any of those deals will be, though it promises discounts on "games, movies, blockbuster game add-ons, holiday themes, you name it!" Rest assured, we'll be keeping our eye on things once the deals start rolling.

In the meantime, check out the XBLM December schedule, including Deals of the Week, Games on Demand and XBLA after the break.

Continue reading XBLM December deals: Cheap Shadow Complex, Maw

JoystiqXBLM December deals: Cheap Shadow Complex, Maw originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deal-of-the-weekgames-on-demandshadow-complexthe-mawxblaxblmxbox-liveThu, 10 Dec 2009 16:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo DS exceeds 10 million units in the UK]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/10/ds-breaks-10-million-units-in-the-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/10/ds-breaks-10-million-units-in-the-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/10/ds-breaks-10-million-units-in-the-uk/#comments GamesIndustry.biz reports that the DS has officially exceeded 10 million units sold in the UK. The revelation comes courtesy of data from European number crunchers GfK Chart-Track and, according to Nintendo, the handheld is currently owned by one out of every six UK residents. Of course, there's no telling how many people have purchased more than one of the console's many, many iterations. Still, the DS has managed to reach the 10 million mark faster than the PS2 did, just shy of five years since the handheld launched in March 2005.

We've been holding this back for a while now, but it's probably time to just come out and say it: It looks like the DS is a success.

JoystiqNintendo DS exceeds 10 million units in the UK originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessdsGfK-Chart-TracknintendoukThu, 10 Dec 2009 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: Silent Hill: Shattered Memories]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/09/review-silent-hill-shattered-memories/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/09/review-silent-hill-shattered-memories/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/09/review-silent-hill-shattered-memories/#comments I'm a big fan of Silent Hill. I've played every game in the series and a few years ago you might even have caught me defending the Silent Hill movie. When I first heard that Climax was re-imagining the first game in the Silent Hill series, and putting it on the Wii, I was a bit nervous. When the company revealed the logo and announced that the rust laden, nightmarish Otherworld was being brushed aside for an ice world, I was downright scared. After gathering some more info and trying the game at E3, all fears were assuaged. This was to be the great hope of the Silent Hill series.

Having spent two evenings with the game and completing the story for the first time, I'm conflicted. Was it good? Yes. I'm just not sure it's Silent Hill.

Gallery: Silent Hill: Shattered Memories (Wii)

Continue reading Review: Silent Hill: Shattered Memories

JoystiqReview: Silent Hill: Shattered Memories originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Dec 2009 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>konamisilent-hillsilent-hill-shattered-memoriesWed, 09 Dec 2009 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MS enables child accounts for 360 Twitter, Facebook, Last.fm]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/09/ms-enables-child-accounts-for-360-twitter-facebook-last-fm/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/09/ms-enables-child-accounts-for-360-twitter-facebook-last-fm/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/09/ms-enables-child-accounts-for-360-twitter-facebook-last-fm/#comments When Microsoft rolled out Twitter, Facebook, and Last.fm support for the Xbox 360, a number of users were less than impressed. Specifically, those with child Xbox Live accounts were not allowed to use any of the new applications. Outside the US, Microsoft has now released an update that allows child accounts to access these features, so long as parental permission is given. Major Nelson advises users to set each application to log in automatically upon first activation. Otherwise, those with child accounts will be prompted for parental permission every time the application is launched.

Fear not, US gamers, the update will hit American shores on December 15.

JoystiqMS enables child accounts for 360 Twitter, Facebook, Last.fm originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Dec 2009 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dashboard-update-fall-2009facebooklast.fmmicrosofttwitterxbox-liveWed, 09 Dec 2009 16:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Where does the next Tetris block really come from?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/08/where-does-the-next-tetris-block-really-comes-from/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/08/where-does-the-next-tetris-block-really-comes-from/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/08/where-does-the-next-tetris-block-really-comes-from/#comments Perhaps, in the past, during a rousing round of Tetris, you may have found yourself in an existential funk. "Where does the next block come from?" you mused. Sure, it's easy enough to pin your extraordinary luck (or misfortune) on the wonders of random generation, but what if it wasn't so simple? What if the real source of your bliss and/or frustration was more ... divine?

College Humor introduces us to Tetrises, the God of Tetris. Witness his terrible glory after the break. Just remember that the next time you pray for a line piece, you actually have someone to address. And, if you're looking for some extra luck, you might consider slaughtering a lesser puzzle game to appease him.

Continue reading Where does the next Tetris block really come from?

JoystiqWhere does the next Tetris block really come from? originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 Dec 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>college-humorculturehumortetrisTue, 08 Dec 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Alien Breed PC slated for Q1 2009, PS3 in Q2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/08/alien-breed-pc-slated-for-q1-2009-ps3-in-q2/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/08/alien-breed-pc-slated-for-q1-2009-ps3-in-q2/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/08/alien-breed-pc-slated-for-q1-2009-ps3-in-q2/#comments Having already dated the timed-exclusive XBLA debut of Alien Breed Evolution -- it will land on December 16 -- Team17 has told GamerZines when PC and PS3 owners can expect the game. According to Team17's Mark Baldwin, Alien Breed Evolution will hit PCs sometime in the first quarter of 2009, while the PS3 version will arrive in the second quarter. Elaborating, Baldwin said the PC version should be available "sometime before March." Meanwhile, PS3 owners "will have to wait as long as perhaps June."

Team17 has previously stated that exclusivity is "just the way the world works," noting that Microsoft had a lot of early faith in the title. At least three to six months' worth of faith.

JoystiqAlien Breed PC slated for Q1 2009, PS3 in Q2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 Dec 2009 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alien-breedalien-breed-evolutionpsnteam17Tue, 08 Dec 2009 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Alan Wake teaser shows us the power of light]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/08/alan-wake-teaser-shows-us-the-power-of-light/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/08/alan-wake-teaser-shows-us-the-power-of-light/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/08/alan-wake-teaser-shows-us-the-power-of-light/#comments Light is, by most accounts, a pretty good thing. It's warm, it makes plants grow and, perhaps most importantly, allows us to see. At least, that was its most important function. Now, thanks to Alan Wake, we know that light's ultimate purpose is to disintegrate monsters. In the small mountain town of Bright Falls, a simple flashbang becomes a weapon of mass destruction and an ordinary road flare is transmogrified from a beacon of hope to a harbinger of doom.

If you don't believe us, check out the new teaser -- part of a week-long Alan Wake feature at 1UP -- after the break.

Continue reading Alan Wake teaser shows us the power of light

JoystiqAlan Wake teaser shows us the power of light originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 Dec 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alan-wakemicrosoft-game-studiosremedysurvival-horrorvideoTue, 08 Dec 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[No-win scenario: Star Trek Online pre-order bonuses]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/07/no-win-scenario-star-trek-online-pre-order-bonuses/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/07/no-win-scenario-star-trek-online-pre-order-bonuses/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/07/no-win-scenario-star-trek-online-pre-order-bonuses/#comments Much like the dreaded Kobayashi Maru, there really is no right answer to the question, "Where should I pre-order Star Trek Online?" In its ongoing mission to make games as hard to purchase as possible, Starfleet has issued different pre-order bonuses to each major American retailer. Want to pilot the Enterprise? You'll have to order from GameStop. Need a pet Tribble? Best Buy. How about a gun that beams projectiles directly to their intended target? Target. That "Liberated Borg" bridge officer you always wanted? Amazon.

And here we thought all we had to do to get the full enjoyment out of our games was buy them. Those days are over, friend. Check out the full list of pre-order bonuses -- and where to find them -- after the break.

Continue reading No-win scenario: Star Trek Online pre-order bonuses

JoystiqNo-win scenario: Star Trek Online pre-order bonuses originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 07 Dec 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ataricrypticcryptic-studiospre-orderstar-trekstar-trek-onlineMon, 07 Dec 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[This Wednesday: XBLA gets its Qix ++ [update: screens]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/07/this-wednesday-xbla-gets-its-qix/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/07/this-wednesday-xbla-gets-its-qix/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/07/this-wednesday-xbla-gets-its-qix/#comments
Update: We've unearthed some screens of the PSP version, courtesy of Game Watch. There may be some difference between it and the XBLA version, but they'll probably look pretty similar. Peruse them in the gallery below.
Microsoft's Major Nelson has announced that Qix ++ is headed to Xbox Live Arcade this week. Apart from the price (800 / $10), that's really all we know. The "++" in the title might be a clue, though, given that Jeff "Why'd you buy Frogger" Minter seems to have an affinity for throwing plus signs at the end of retro game titles. It's also worth noting that Minter worked on the XBLA version of Space Invaders Extreme which, like Qix, is a Taito (via Square Enix) game. For now, with no assets of the game available, you'll have to settle for a video of the original Qix posted after the break.

In other news, the Xbox Live Deal of the Week is Rock Band DLC, specifically No Doubt's The Singles 1992-2003 album. The DLC has been discounted from 1600 ($20) to 1200 ($15).

Shortcut: Download The Singles 1992-2003 [Xbox.com]

Gallery: Qix ++ (PSP)

Continue reading This Wednesday: XBLA gets its Qix ++ [update: screens]

JoystiqThis Wednesday: XBLA gets its Qix ++ [update: screens] originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 07 Dec 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deal-of-the-weekdlcno-doubtqixqix-plus-plusrock-bandxblaXblaWednesdayxbox-live-arcadeMon, 07 Dec 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[More Green Day headed to Rock Band]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/more-green-day-headed-to-rock-band/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/more-green-day-headed-to-rock-band/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/more-green-day-headed-to-rock-band/#commentsIn simple terms, Green Day and Rock Band are friends. There have already been several Green Day tracks released for Harmonix's musically inclined baby and it was announced today that even more are on their way later this month. Starting December 15 on the Wii and Xbox 360 - and December 17 on the Playstation 3 - players will be able to grab three new Green Day tracks from the band's 21st Century Breakdown album: "Christian's Inferno," "Last of the American Girls," and "¡Viva La Gloria!". The tracks will be available individually for $1.99 / 160 / 200 Wii points. The full track pack will be available on PS3 and Xbox 360 for $5.49 / 440.

JoystiqMore Green Day headed to Rock Band originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 05 Dec 2009 06:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>21st-century-BreakdownDLCeaelectronic-artsgreen-dayharmonixmtv-gamesrock-bandSat, 05 Dec 2009 06:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Child's Play raises over $1 million so far]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/childs-play-raises-over-1-million-so-far/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/childs-play-raises-over-1-million-so-far/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/childs-play-raises-over-1-million-so-far/#comments It was announced today that the Child's Play charity has raised over $1 million so far this year. The charity, created by Penny Arcade to aid children in hospitals all over the world, has already raised a total of $1,010,680.28. Said Child's Play project manager Kristin Lindsay, "With so may people out of work, we've been amazed at the huge response this year." The charity hopes to surpass $1.4 million by year's end, which would be on par with what it brought in during 2008.

Several events for Child's Play have been planned or have already taken place this year. Notably, the Desert Bus for Hope marathon pulled in over $130,000 in November, while Harmonix will be throwing the Ümloud Rock Band night fundraiser on December 9. Readers can find out more about Child's Play at the official website.

JoystiqChild's Play raises over $1 million so far originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 05 Dec 2009 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>childs-playchilds-play-2009childs-play-charityculturepenny-arcadeSat, 05 Dec 2009 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[8 million played Modern Warfare 2 in its first week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/8-million-played-modern-warfare-2-in-first-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/8-million-played-modern-warfare-2-in-first-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/8-million-played-modern-warfare-2-in-first-week/#comments There's not really much more to say, is there? Publisher Activision notes that the 8 million folks dabbled in Modern Warfare 2 during its first week of release, which outnumbers basically every major organized army on the planet, Activision gloats. Obviously, the publisher forgot to factor in Antarctica's Grand Army of the Penguins' Republic, currently numbering in the tens of millions but, in the interest of celebration, we're willing to overlook this oversight.

On a side note, this is good news for Electronic Arts, because there's obviously a market for these newfangled war games.

Joystiq8 million played Modern Warfare 2 in its first week originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionCall-of-Dutycall-of-duty-modern-warfare-2modern-warfaremodern-warfare-2Fri, 04 Dec 2009 20:01:00 EST<![CDATA[GameStop lets you be the N64 Xmas kid]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/gamestop-lets-you-be-the-n64-xmas-kid/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/gamestop-lets-you-be-the-n64-xmas-kid/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/gamestop-lets-you-be-the-n64-xmas-kid/#comments While the above headline is true, you'll probably have to squint your eyes a bit to see it. You see, someone at GameStop had the particularly brilliant idea of making an application that can plaster your face directly over the famous (infamous?) Nintendo 64 kid. What kid, you ask? You know the one. Yeah, that one. Or, if you're like us, you can always use a picture of a cat. Apart from the video being holiday themed, we're not sure how the application will help GameStop sell games. But, then again, we don't really care. We just put a cat face on N64 Kid's face. What more could you want?

[Via GoNintendo]

JoystiqGameStop lets you be the N64 Xmas kid originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>culturegamestopn64-kidnintendo-64nintendo-sixty-foooooooooourFri, 04 Dec 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Scourge Project 3rd-person shooting to Steam, XBLA]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/02/scourge-project-3rd-person-shooting-to-steam-xbla/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/02/scourge-project-3rd-person-shooting-to-steam-xbla/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/02/scourge-project-3rd-person-shooting-to-steam-xbla/#comments
click to enlarge Tragnarion Studios has announced that it will soon bring its third-person shooter, entitled The Scourge Project -- first announced in 2007 -- to Xbox Live Arcade, PSN and Steam. The game, powered by the Unreal Engine, promises "a unique focus on co-operative narrative and gameplay," in which each of the four playable characters will have a unique perspective on the story. From a more meat-and-potatoes standpoint, the game features five hours of gameplay over four levels (each with different special abilities), nine different weapons and co-op for up to four players. The Scourge Project also offers versus multiplayer for up to sixteen players and includes deathmatch, team deathmatch, capture the flag and "Frontier."

The game certainly seems to be packing some graphical chops, especially compared to Tragnarion's previous project for the DS, a puzzler called Doodle Hex. The game is expected to debut on Steam this month, while the XBLA version is scheduled to arrive in March 2010. The press release does mention a PSN version of the game, though it doesn't appear in the body of the text. We've contacted Tragnarion to see if the PSN listing was legitimate or made in error.

Check out some screens in the gallery below and find more info on the official Scourge Project site.

[Via Big Download]

Gallery: The Scourge Project

JoystiqScourge Project 3rd-person shooting to Steam, XBLA originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>steamthe-scourge-projecttragnariontragnarion-studiosunreal-enginexblaWed, 02 Dec 2009 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Silent Hill: Shattered Memories trailer rocks out]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/02/silent-hill-shattered-memories-trailer-rocks-out/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/02/silent-hill-shattered-memories-trailer-rocks-out/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/02/silent-hill-shattered-memories-trailer-rocks-out/#comments Konami has released a new trailer for Silent Hill: Shattered Memories and ... it kind of rocks. Literally. Rather than flooding the senses with creepy atmosphere, rusted metal and sexually confusing nurses, the trailer opts instead for a montage of the game's characters and some rock music, specifically "When You're Gone," a new theme composed by the series' longtime (and recently departed) maestro, Akira Yamaoka.

Sharp-eyed viewers will also notice that Cybil, the friendly police officer from the original Silent Hill, appears in two different variations in the trailer. The version of Cybil encountered will be different for each player, depending on the player's actions prior to meeting her in the game. Also featured in the video: Monsters. Lots of 'em.

Shattered Memories releases December 8.

JoystiqSilent Hill: Shattered Memories trailer rocks out originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>konamisilent-hillsilent-hill-shattered-memoriesWed, 02 Dec 2009 16:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Silent Hill's Akira Yamaoka officially leaves Konami]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/02/silent-hills-akira-yamaoka-officially-leaves-konami/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/02/silent-hills-akira-yamaoka-officially-leaves-konami/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/02/silent-hills-akira-yamaoka-officially-leaves-konami/#commentsThat eerie, oppressive sound you hear is that of a million Silent Hill soundtracks being played in memoriam of Akira Yamaoka. Original Sound Version has confirmed Yamaoka's departure from Konami, a rumor that began circulating yesterday. Yamaoka is known primarily for his work on the characteristic soundscapes of Konami's Silent Hill series, including the upcoming Silent Hill: Shattered Memories. In fact, the man has composed the soundtrack for every game in the series (with the exception of the GBA spinoff, Silent Hill Play Novel). He has also served as a producer on the series since Silent Hill 3.

Exactly where the composer plans to go from here is unknown, though OSV claims to be preparing an interview with Yamaoka in "the coming days." In the meantime, we plan to let his music lull us into a nervous, nightmare-ridden sleep.

[Via Hell Descent]

JoystiqSilent Hill's Akira Yamaoka officially leaves Konami originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>akira-yamaokakonamipeace-outsilent-hillsoundtrackWed, 02 Dec 2009 13:58:00 EST<![CDATA[L4D2 Steam update fixes invincible, burning Witch]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/l4d2-steam-update-fixes-invincible-burning-witch/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/l4d2-steam-update-fixes-invincible-burning-witch/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/l4d2-steam-update-fixes-invincible-burning-witch/#comments Not that we've ever run across an invincible, burning Witch, but we'd say it's probably a great thing that Valve decided to fix that particular bug in Left 4 Dead 2. You see, apparently there's a glitch that allows Witches to become invincible if set on fire, the upshot of this being that the Witch is both invincible and on fire. Sound scary? You bet your ass it is. The patch also fixes a bug that prevented the launch of the game on certain machines. Yet another tweak fixes a bug where "bots would not shoot at Jockeys and Chargers while approaching to save a teammate." Yeah, that one seems kind of important too.

JoystiqL4D2 Steam update fixes invincible, burning Witch originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 23:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>left-4-deadleft-4-dead-2patchsteamupdatevalveTue, 01 Dec 2009 23:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Greenberg: 360 sales more than double over Black Friday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/greenberg-360-sales-more-than-double-over-black-friday/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/greenberg-360-sales-more-than-double-over-black-friday/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/greenberg-360-sales-more-than-double-over-black-friday/#commentsAccording to Microsoft's Aaron Greenberg, Xbox 360 sales saw a serious increase thanks to the post-Thanksgiving shopping madness known as Black Friday. While Greenberg doesn't disclose specific numbers, he notes in a recent tweet that Black Friday granted the Xbox 360 its "biggest sales week of the year," with Microsoft selling over twice as many units than the previous week. That certainly sounds like a lot, though the average weekly sales in October -- based on NPD figures -- were slightly above 60,000 units.

Assuming November's weekly average was similar, Microsoft certainly didn't come close to topping Sony's impressive Black Friday total of 440,000 PS3 consoles. And let's not forget Nintendo's Black Friday success: 550,000 Wii consoles and DS / DSi sales in excess of one million units. Rest assured we will break down the exact November numbers once the NPDs shake out later this month.

[Via Gamasutra]

JoystiqGreenberg: 360 sales more than double over Black Friday originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Aaron-Greenbergblack-fridayblack-friday-2009businessxboxxbox-360Tue, 01 Dec 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fight: Double Impact arrives April 2010]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/final-fight-double-impact-arrives-april-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/final-fight-double-impact-arrives-april-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/final-fight-double-impact-arrives-april-2010/#comments Capcom has announced that the Final Fight / Magic Sword combo pack known as Final Fight: Double Impact will hit Xbox Live Arcade and the PlayStation Network in April 2010. In addition to the previously announced graphical filters, viewing modes and drop-in / drop-out co-op, Capcom has also revealed that both games will feature a selectable soundtrack from the people responsible for the excellent Bionic Commando: Rearmed soundtrack. Furthermore, the games will utilize GGPO, a networking library used to essentially eliminate lag during online play.

Oh, it also includes both Final Fight and Magic Sword.

Gallery: Final Fight: Double Impact

JoystiqFinal Fight: Double Impact arrives April 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomfinal-fightfinal-fight-double-impactmagic-swordpsnxblaTue, 01 Dec 2009 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[UK Bayonetta pre-order bonuses revealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/uk-bayonetta-pre-order-bonuses-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/uk-bayonetta-pre-order-bonuses-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/uk-bayonetta-pre-order-bonuses-revealed/#comments
We're not sure why publishers decided that purchasing a game should be more difficult, but the recent trend of retailer exclusive pre-order goodies seems to be here to stay. Case in point: the various pre-order bonuses for Bayonetta in the UK. Those who pre-order at Play.com will receive the Bayonetta Climax Edition, pictured above on the left. Meanwhile, HMV pre-orders get a "Manga's Leading Ladies" DVD, which features "full episodes, trailers and exclusive clips" of something. Perhaps the coolest bonus, though, belongs to game.co.uk, which offers a replica of one of Bayonetta's guns, Scarborough Fair.

All three are being offered for £39.99, so the only decision you really have to make is which bonus you like the best. Well, that and whether or not you ever want to invite a pretty girl into your home.

JoystiqUK Bayonetta pre-order bonuses revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionbayonettaplatinum-gamespre-ordersegaTue, 01 Dec 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Matt Hazard: Blood Bath and Beyond dated for Jan. 6]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/matt-hazard-blood-bath-and-beyond-dated-for-jan-6/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/matt-hazard-blood-bath-and-beyond-dated-for-jan-6/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/matt-hazard-blood-bath-and-beyond-dated-for-jan-6/#comments D3Publisher's Matt Hazard: Blood Bath & Beyond now has a date with both Xbox Live and the PlayStation Network. It will arrive on January 6 and 7 on Microsoft and Sony's platforms, respectively. Playing on the same camp featured in the original retail Matt Hazard game -- which parodied other games and featured an aging video game star -- Blood Bath & Beyond is a 2D shooter in the same vein as many classics like Contra and Bionic Commando.

Alongside the release date, D3 has also revealed Dexter Dare, Matt Hazard's burnt out sidekick with a sordid history -- including a prolonged "Mana abuse problem" that we're probably supposed to find hilarious. Check out some new screens and Dexter Dare character art in the gallery below.

Gallery: Matt Hazard: Blood Bath and Beyond (11/30/09)

JoystiqMatt Hazard: Blood Bath and Beyond dated for Jan. 6 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>D3Publishermatt-hazardmatt-hazard-blood-bath-and-beyondpsnrelease-datexblaTue, 01 Dec 2009 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ubisoft envisions a future of 3-D movies, games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/ubisoft-envisions-a-future-of-3-d-movies-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/ubisoft-envisions-a-future-of-3-d-movies-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/ubisoft-envisions-a-future-of-3-d-movies-games/#comments Older readers out there might think that the 3D gaming revolution began with the advent of consoles like the PlayStation, N64 and the Sega Saturn, but the real 3D gaming revolution is just beginning, according to Ubisoft. 3D gaming doesn't refer to three dimensional graphics anymore; nowadays it means that the game jumps out of the screen and into your eye holes. Beginning with the game adaptation of James Cameron's Avatar, Ubisoft Montreal's Yannis Mallat tells the Financial Post that he sees the company becoming a "360-degree entertainment content provider."

As the wording suggests, Ubisoft's future won't necessarily be restricted to games. Mallat hopes that future game consoles will be able to render photorealistic graphics, enabling Ubisoft to create games and films using the same assets -- similar to what the company did with the Assassin's Creed: Lineage short films.

Of course, enjoying this "360-degree entertainment" will require a special television set. Still, Mallat is firmly behind the technology, saying that it does for images what Dolby did for sound. "No one wants to go back to mono," says Mallat. That's all well and good, but a huge number of gamers have yet to even upgrade to an HDTV at all, let alone one that can take advantage of 3D technology.

[Via VideoGamer]

JoystiqUbisoft envisions a future of 3-D movies, games originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3-d3-d-games3d3d-gamesavatarubisoftTue, 01 Dec 2009 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Serious Sam: The Second Encounter getting HD treatment]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/30/serious-sam-the-second-encounter-getting-hd-treatment/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/30/serious-sam-the-second-encounter-getting-hd-treatment/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/30/serious-sam-the-second-encounter-getting-hd-treatment/#comments Hot on the heels of the recently released Serious Sam HD: The First Encounter, Croteam and Devolver Digital have announced that Serious Sam: The Second Encounter will also receive the HD treatment. The serious sequel is slated to arrive on PC and "home console" in early 2010 and, like The First Encounter, it will receive a graphical overhaul to make all the carnage ever so smooth. In addition to the resolution upgrade, Serious Sam HD: The Second Encounter will feature a new co-op tournament mode that will "allow teams to compete with one another." Shocking, we know.

In a somewhat stranger turn of events, The Second Encounter will be featured at the 2010 World Expo in Shanghai, where teams will compete for the Digital Youth Award. The award espouses "the values of creativity, culture, friendship, education and unity" -- none of which we associate with Serious Sam.

JoystiqSerious Sam: The Second Encounter getting HD treatment originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 Nov 2009 16:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CroTeamdevolver-digitaldigital-youth-awardrelease-dateserious-samserious-sam-hdserious-sam-hd-the-second-encounterMon, 30 Nov 2009 16:33:00 EST<![CDATA[This Wednesday: Call of Duty Classic storms Xbox Live]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/30/this-wednesday-call-of-duty-classic-storms-xbox-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/30/this-wednesday-call-of-duty-classic-storms-xbox-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/30/this-wednesday-call-of-duty-classic-storms-xbox-live/#comments According to one AceyBongos -- think of him as Europe's Major Nelson -- this week's Xbox Live Arcade game will be none other than Call of Duty Classic. Those who picked up the Hardened or Prestige editions of Modern Warfare 2 have already had the joy of ignoring their packed-in copy of the game, and now the whole world can ignore it! If, by some bizarre chance, you're just not into all this newfangled, modern warfare, Call of Duty Classic will set you back 1200 ($15).

Again though, this message really only applies to the five people that aren't playing Modern Warfare 2.

[Thanks, DarkSynopsis]

JoystiqThis Wednesday: Call of Duty Classic storms Xbox Live originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 Nov 2009 13:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Call-of-Dutycall-of-duty-classicinfinity-wardxblaXblaWednesdayxbox-live-arcadeMon, 30 Nov 2009 13:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Analyst: Metacritic scores don't drive success]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/25/analyst-metacritic-scores-dont-drive-success/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/25/analyst-metacritic-scores-dont-drive-success/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/25/analyst-metacritic-scores-dont-drive-success/#comments The idea that review scores don't matter is nothing new around Joystiq. We've seen the argument made by EEDAR's Jesse Divnich, specifically in reference to DS games. Michael Pachter and Peter Moore have leveled the same claim at Wii games as well. Now, Cowen Group's Doug Creutz tells Gamasutra that the score generated by aggregators like Metacritic is the least important factor in how well a game performs.

Creutz notes that scores can be "somewhat predictive" of a game's success, but are "unlikely in and of themselves to drive or undermine the success of a game." He then mentions the industry scuttlebutt that many publishers work very hard to jockey scores, saying that publishers' time would be better spent on development instead of "grade-grubbing."

The major factors in purchasing decisions, according to Creutz, are genre, whether a player liked the previous game in a series and, unsurprisingly, price. So there you have it publishers, to be successful, all you have to do is make a sequel to a popular game in a genre that a lot of people like. And make it cheap. If that's not possible, two out of three ain't bad.

JoystiqAnalyst: Metacritic scores don't drive success originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analystbusinessdoug-creutzmetacriticWed, 25 Nov 2009 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Analyst: Modern Warfare 2 DLC could make $140 million in 2010]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/25/analyst-modern-warfare-2-dlc-could-make-140-million-in-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/25/analyst-modern-warfare-2-dlc-could-make-140-million-in-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/25/analyst-modern-warfare-2-dlc-could-make-140-million-in-2010/#comments Now that Modern Warfare 2 has smashed launch records -- raking in serious cash in the process -- the way is paved for inevitable downloadable content. DLC will likely rake in serious cash of its own, according to Broadpoint AmTech analyst Ben Schachter, who tells IndustryGamers that DLC could bring in an additional $100-140 million in revenue next year. The figure is based on the DLC attach rate for the previous Call of Duty title, World at War, which sold 0.625 downloadable map packs per copy, according to Schachter. At $10 each, that means every copy of World at War generated an additional $6.25 after the initial retail purchase.

Assuming there are 14-16 million copies of Modern Warfare 2 in players homes by the time DLC launches, Schachter says the content could generate up to $140 million, minus the portion Activision has to pay to platform holders that host the DLC. Schachter also believes DLC will go beyond map packs, theorizing that Infinity Ward could offer in-game items, new game modes and new missions (more co-op sniping, please). Of course, expanded DLC content could result in higher prices this time around.

Only time will tell how well Modern Warfare 2 does post launch but, regardless of what kind of content is on offer, we imagine it will probably do okay.

JoystiqAnalyst: Modern Warfare 2 DLC could make $140 million in 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 21:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionanalystCall-of-Dutycall-of-duty-modern-warfare-2dlcmodern-warfare-2Wed, 25 Nov 2009 21:26:00 EST<![CDATA[The terrifying prototypes of Tony Hawk: Ride]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/24/the-terrifying-prototypes-of-tony-hawk-ride/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/24/the-terrifying-prototypes-of-tony-hawk-ride/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/24/the-terrifying-prototypes-of-tony-hawk-ride/#comments
Not everyone can be as skilled as we were the very first time we tried Tony Hawk: Ride. Most people, as we understand it, are a bit daunted by the game's iconic peripheral at first. We're told it can be quite intimidating. That may be true, but just wait until you see some of the original prototypes Robomodo recently revealed to Develop. Employing wooden boards, blank decks, arcade buttons, trackballs and, yes, duct tape, the prototypes appear infinitely more frightening than the comparatively svelte final product. Check them out and be thankful for the Ride that never was.

JoystiqThe terrifying prototypes of Tony Hawk: Ride originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionriderobomodotony-hawk-rideTue, 24 Nov 2009 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dell severs $20 off Left 4 Dead 2 PC price]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/24/dell-severs-20-off-left-4-dead-2-pc-price/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/24/dell-severs-20-off-left-4-dead-2-pc-price/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/24/dell-severs-20-off-left-4-dead-2-pc-price/#comments Yes, Dell, maker of PCs and occasional gaming deals, is now selling the PC version of Left 4 Dead 2 at a drastically reduced price. The company has marked down the game from $49.99 to a mere $29.99. That's twenty whole dollars, which is probably the same price Valve will charge on Steam precisely ten minutes after you buy it from Dell. But hey, it's a deal right now and it's hard to argue with that. Or is it?

[Thanks, Eric!]

JoystiqDell severs $20 off Left 4 Dead 2 PC price originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dealsdellleft-4-dead-2saleTue, 24 Nov 2009 17:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Goozex temporarily drops trading fees for students]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/23/goozex-temporarily-drops-trading-fees-for-students/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/23/goozex-temporarily-drops-trading-fees-for-students/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/23/goozex-temporarily-drops-trading-fees-for-students/#commentsGoozex, the online game trading service, has announced a special promotion for its student members. Starting now and running through January 31, 2010, Goozex members that are enrolled in college will be able to trade their games without paying any trading fee whatsoever. Granted, the trading fee is normally only $1, but every little bit helps these days, especially with the holiday shopping season currently preparing its first major assault.

Now, technically, the deal applies to anyone using Goozex under a .edu email address, so we suppose the less scrupulous folks out there could game the system. Then again, so long as it gets people using the service, we're not sure Goozex will mind all that much.

JoystiqGoozex temporarily drops trading fees for students originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dealsgoozexused-gamesMon, 23 Nov 2009 18:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Pandemic goes out with a bang, 'Office Space' style]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/23/video-pandemic-goes-out-with-a-bang-office-space-style/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/23/video-pandemic-goes-out-with-a-bang-office-space-style/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/23/video-pandemic-goes-out-with-a-bang-office-space-style/#comments There's no two ways about it: having your studio shut down does not feel good. However, it does feel good to be a gangsta. Damn good. To prove this ancient adage, some former Pandemic employees put together a little Office Space-inspired video to honor the house that brought us Mercenaries, the Star Wars Battlefront series and the upcoming release, The Saboteur.

Kotaku reports that the mercilessly destroyed printer was, in fact, used by the Saboteur team, giving the video an extra layer of sweet vengeance. A word to EA: if you're missing any red Swingline staplers, we might know where they are. Watch the (very NSFW) video after the break.

Continue reading Video: Pandemic goes out with a bang, 'Office Space' style

JoystiqVideo: Pandemic goes out with a bang, 'Office Space' style originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>closureeaElectronic-ArtsfinancelayoffspandemicPandemic-StudiosrevengeMon, 23 Nov 2009 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft says it's 'well within legal rights' to ban consoles]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/22/microsoft-says-its-well-within-legal-rights-to-ban-consol/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/22/microsoft-says-its-well-within-legal-rights-to-ban-consol/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/22/microsoft-says-its-well-within-legal-rights-to-ban-consol/#comments In response to a possible class action lawsuit resulting from a recent round of Xbox Live bans, Microsoft has now asserted the legality of its position. A spokesperson has told the Financial Post that piracy is a violation of the company's terms of use and that Microsoft is "well within its legal rights" to ban users from its Xbox Live.

It was reported earlier this month that the law firm AlbingtonIP is "investigating" the possibility of a class action lawsuit against Microsoft over the bans. The firm argues that timing of the bans -- shortly after the release of Halo 3: ODST and just prior to the launch of Modern Warfare 2 -- was designed to get as much money from Xbox Live subscriptions as possible. In other words, the firm believes that Microsoft personally waited for a time when many people -- modders in this case -- would be purchasing Live subscriptions for popular games -- money that probably wouldn't be refunded after a ban.

Joystiq's Law of the Game columnist, Mark Methenitis, classified the suit as a likely "cash grab," explaining that anyone savvy enough to mod an Xbox would know to stay well away from Xbox Live. We might add that major releases, like ODST and Modern Warfare 2, are the biggest targets for piracy, and likely correspond with rises in illegal downloads. And that just might have something to do with the timing of the bans in question.

[Via Kotaku]

JoystiqMicrosoft says it's 'well within legal rights' to ban consoles originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 22 Nov 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banhalo-3-odstlawsuitlegalmicrosoftmoddingmodern-warfare-2piracyxbox-liveSun, 22 Nov 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Happy 4th birthday, Xbox 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/22/happy-4th-birthday-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/22/happy-4th-birthday-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/22/happy-4th-birthday-xbox-360/#comments Cruising the Twitters, as we are wont to do, we stumbled upon a revelation, courtesy of one Major Nelson. That revelation: Today is the fourth anniversary of the launch of the Xbox 360. Yes, just four years ago, on November 22, 2005, the Joystiq universe was just buzzing with excitement. There were freezing cold lines to wait in, boxes to open and new games to play -- in fantastic HD resmolutions! And then, of course, it began.

Check out a sampling of our Xbox 360 launch coverage after the break.

Continue reading Happy 4th birthday, Xbox 360

JoystiqHappy 4th birthday, Xbox 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 22 Nov 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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