Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogobig.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Video Games Live seats in Indy up for sale]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/16/video-games-live-seats-in-indy-up-for-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/16/video-games-live-seats-in-indy-up-for-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/16/video-games-live-seats-in-indy-up-for-sale/#commentsFiled under: ,

Video Games Live at Gen Con IndyTickets are now on sale for the two Video Games Live shows planned in conjunction with Gen Con Indy Friday & Saturday, August 11-12.

After a stop in Philly earlier this month, the VGL tour is moving on to Houston July 14th, Chicago August 5th, and then Indianapolis the weekend after that. More on reserving seats for the Hilbert Circle Theatre can be found on the official announcement page (via the pic to the right or the Read link below).

Judging by the reviews of the Philly show so far, Video Games Live sounds like it could be a lot of fun. If they keep providing public access to Guitar Hero II, they may have sold this blogger on going already. We hope Midwestern gamers not attending the Chicago show can make a pitstop in Indy to keep Tommy's show on the road. So, yeah ... rock on.

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JoystiqVideo Games Live seats in Indy up for sale originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Jun 2006 00:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>attendattendingChicagoconcertgame musicGameMusicGen ConGen Con IndyGenConGenConIndyGuitar HeroGuitar Hero IIGuitarHeroGuitarHeroIiHoustonIllinoisINIndianaIndianapolisIndyMidwestMidwesternmusicPhiladelphiaPhillyrockshowTexasticketticketsTommytourVGLvgmvideo game musicVideo Games Livevideo-game musicVideo-gameMusicVideoGameMusicVideoGamesLiveFri, 16 Jun 2006 00:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Stringer: The Xbox 360 is an "obsession"]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/07/stringer-the-xbox-360-is-an-obsession/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/07/stringer-the-xbox-360-is-an-obsession/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/07/stringer-the-xbox-360-is-an-obsession/#commentsFiled under:

Howard Stringer obsessed with the Xbox 360Well, you know what they say about what to do when you have nothing nice to say ... erm, say that the competing gaming platform (in this case, the 360) is an "obsession"?

That's exactly what Sony CEO Howard Stringer had to offer in an interview with Walt Mossberg of The Wall Street Journal recently. While sharing how The Da Vinci Code from Sony beat up on "X-Men 3" (aka The Last Stand) over in Europe, he seemed to mistakenly throw in "Xbox 3" in the stead of Fox's great summer blockbuster hope. Following Mossberg's correction, Stringer is reported to have retorted, laughing, "There's an obsession!"

We don't know if he's referring to the media's obsession with the corporate gaming rivalry, his own obsession with the console that would dethrone the PlayStation, or some combination of the two (irony really doesn't help here), but he does seem to at least outwardly admire Bill Gates' salesmanship (as well as his hypocrisy in delaying Windows Vista while lambasting the PS3 delay). Of course, a lot of supposed compliments could go both ways, so we've provided a few handy links below to check out what other "nice" things hardware execs have had to say about their competitors lately. We're sure it's all in good fun.

[Thanks, JC & SickNic; also via GameDaily BIZ]

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JoystiqStringer: The Xbox 360 is an "obsession" originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Jun 2006 17:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bill GatesBillGatesCEODa Vinci CodeDaVinciCodedelaydelayedGatesHoward StringerHowardStringerJournalMicrosoftMossbergobsessedobsessionsalesmanshipSonyStringerThe Last StandTheLastStandThere's an obsession!There'sAnObsession!VistaWall Street JournalWallStreetJournalWalt MossbergWaltMossbergWindows VistaWindowsVistaX-Men 3X-men3Xbox 3Xbox3Wed, 07 Jun 2006 17:36:00 EST<![CDATA[Stringer: The Xbox 360 is an "obsession"]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/07/stringer-the-xbox-360-is-an-obsession/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/07/stringer-the-xbox-360-is-an-obsession/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/07/stringer-the-xbox-360-is-an-obsession/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Howard Stringer obsessed with the Xbox 360Well, you know what they say about what to do when you have nothing nice to say ... erm, say that the competing gaming platform (in this case, the 360) is an "obsession"?

That's exactly what Sony CEO Howard Stringer had to offer in an interview with Walt Mossberg of The Wall Street Journal recently. While sharing how The Da Vinci Code from Sony beat up on "X-Men 3" (aka The Last Stand) over in Europe, he seemed to mistakenly throw in "Xbox 3" in the stead of Fox's great summer blockbuster hope. Following Mossberg's correction, Stringer is reported to have retorted, laughing, "There's an obsession!"

We don't know if he's referring to the media's obsession with the corporate gaming rivalry, his own obsession with the console that would dethrone the PlayStation, or some combination of the two (irony really doesn't help here), but he does seem to at least outwardly admire Bill Gates' salesmanship (as well as his hypocrisy in delaying Windows Vista while lambasting the PS3 delay). Of course, a lot of supposed compliments could go both ways, so we've provided a few handy links below to check out what other "nice" things hardware execs have had to say about their competitors lately. We're sure it's all in good fun.

[Thanks, JC & SickNic; also via GameDaily BIZ]

See also:

JoystiqStringer: The Xbox 360 is an "obsession" originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Jun 2006 17:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Howard-StringerPS3WSJXbox-360Wed, 07 Jun 2006 17:28:00 EST<![CDATA[360 dashboard update to be ready by morning]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/05/360-dashboard-update-to-be-ready-by-morning/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/05/360-dashboard-update-to-be-ready-by-morning/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/05/360-dashboard-update-to-be-ready-by-morning/#commentsFiled under: ,


The long awaited 360 dashboard update is finally coming, arriving by invite for most Stateside gamers sometime early tomorrow morning.

The update will actually begin to go out by 2:00 AM PT, but, according to Major Nelson, it "can take up to four hours for a user to be prompted to receive this update," so the invitation to download the small-in-size (but large-in-scope) update could arrive as late as 6:00 AM PT.

Patient gamers can look forward to 125 new features for their cream-colored Xboxes, including the ability to queue multiple Marketplace downloads, keep your place in DVDs, and even fast-forward to just the choicest parts of videos (like the one featuring the titular Tomb Raider above). Plan your evening and/or morning accordingly, folks.

See also:
[Thanks to everyone who sent this in; also via Xbox 360 Fanboy]

Joystiq360 dashboard update to be ready by morning originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Jun 2006 23:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>0200060012516X2:00 AM2:00Am3606:00 AM6:00Amchoicechoicestdashboarddashboard updateDashboardUpdatedownloadDVDDVDsfast-forwardfeaturefeaturesforwardfour hoursFourHoursinvitationinviteMajorMajor NelsonMajorNelsonMarketplaceMicrosoftpatientpatient gamersPatientGamersplanpromptPTqueueStatesideTomb RaiderTombRaiderupdatevideovideosXbox-360XboxesMon, 05 Jun 2006 23:27:00 EST<![CDATA[360 BC update "in the next few weeks"]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/03/360-bc-update-in-the-next-few-weeks/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/03/360-bc-update-in-the-next-few-weeks/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/03/360-bc-update-in-the-next-few-weeks/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Xbox 360 BC list last updated March 2006
Thanks to the folks at the Gamerscore Blog, we've learned that the next Xbox back compat update "should be out in the next few weeks."

In his earlier blast against BC, Peter Moore proclaimed that nobody is concerned about it anymore, but thankfully the gentler Gamerscore peeps have set the record straight, stating: "We know for a fact that there are lots of people who continue to care about backwards compatibility, including the 'Emulation Ninjas' who are working full time on the updates. And those of us posting on this blog. And, of course, many of you."

We suppose quarterly updates to the BC list aren't TOO bad (hey, they sure beat semiannual dashboard updates), but getting more than a dozen titles to work each time would definitely help a lot more for those with original Xbox favorites they'd prefer to play on their new machines. Personally, this blogger would like to see the following titles added to the list: Dead or Alive Ultimate, Doom 3, Capcom vs. SNK 2, Marvel vs. Capcom 2, Project Gotham Racing 2, LEGO Star Wars, Street Fighter Anniversary Collection, Soul Calibur II, and Capcom Classics Collection. It may not be realistic to expect Street Fighter support when Hyper Fighting is set to hit Live Arcade sometime in the near future, but one can (vainly) hope.

[Via Major Nelson's blog]

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Joystiq360 BC update "in the next few weeks" originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 03 Jun 2006 12:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>back compatBackCompatbackward compatiblebackward-compatibleBackwardCompatiblebackwards compatiblebackwards-compatibleBackwardsCompatibleBCblogCapcomCapcom Classics CollectionCapcom vs. SNK 2CapcomClassicsCollectionCapcomVs.Snk2Dead or Alive UltimateDeadOrAliveUltimateGamerscoreHyper FightingHyperFightingin the next few weeksInTheNextFewWeeksLEGO Star WarsLegoStarWarslistLive ArcadeLiveArcadeMarvel vs. Capcom 2MarvelVs.Capcom2Peter MoorePeterMooreProject Gotham Racing 2ProjectGothamRacing2quarterlysemiannualSF IISF IIISfIiSfIiiSoul Calibur IISoulCaliburIiStreet FighterStreet Fighter Anniversary CollectionStreet Fighter IIStreet Fighter IIIStreetFighterStreetFighterAnniversaryCollectionStreetFighterIiStreetFighterIiititlesupdateupdatesXboxXbox-360Sat, 03 Jun 2006 12:20:00 EST<![CDATA[$40 XBL Vision camera & UNO bundle detailed by MS source along with prices & dates for other 360 accessories]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/02/40-xbl-vision-camera-and-uno-bundle-detailed-by-ms-source-along-w/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/02/40-xbl-vision-camera-and-uno-bundle-detailed-by-ms-source-along-w/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/02/40-xbl-vision-camera-and-uno-bundle-detailed-by-ms-source-along-w/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

UNO and the Live Vision Camera: a match made in online heavenOur friendly anonymous source at Microsoft has provided us with a few more details concerning the 360 accessories announced back at E3.

Perhaps the most important involves the bundling of the Xbox Live Vision camera with a wired headset, the popular Live Arcade title UNO, and a month of Live Gold service for $39.99 when it releases in the States on September 19, 2006.

Granted, this is still an unofficial report (based on a leak of "official" info), so understand that you're probably not gonna get much confirmation from MS until they're good and ready to give it. If you'd like information on what other peripherals are coming out "Holiday 2006" (so sometime in the 4th quarter) and at what price, read on for more.

Continue reading $40 XBL Vision camera & UNO bundle detailed by MS source along with prices & dates for other 360 accessories

Joystiq$40 XBL Vision camera & UNO bundle detailed by MS source along with prices & dates for other 360 accessories originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Jun 2006 00:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20GB256 MB256Mb360360-compatible64 MB64Mbaccessoriesaccessoryadd-onanonymousbundlecameracompatibleCoredatedateddatesE3faceplatefaceplatesForzaGoldHalohard diskhard drivehard-diskhard-driveHardDiskHardDriveHDHD-DVDHD-DVD playerHd-dvdPlayerHDDheadsetHoliday 2006Holiday2006LiveLive ArcadeLive GoldLive MarketplaceLiveArcadeLiveGoldLiveMarketplaceMarketplacememory unitMemoryUnitMicrosoftMSMUnon-bundlednonbundledofficialPCPC-compatibleperipheralpriceprice pointPricePointpricespricingPS3 launchPs3Launchpurchaseracing wheelRacingWheelrumorrumoredserviceSKUSKUssourcetwo-tieredun-bundledunbundledUNOunofficialupgradeupgradesVisionViva PinataVivaPinatawebcamwheelWinter 2007Winter2007wiredwirelesswireless gaming receiverwireless racing wheelWirelessGamingReceiverWirelessRacingWheelXBLXBL VisionXblVisionXboxXbox LiveXbox Live VisionXbox-360XboxLiveXboxLiveVisionFri, 02 Jun 2006 00:26:00 EST<![CDATA[XBL Vision camera delayed to October 2nd in Europe and Asia outside of Japan; U.S. Sept. 19th release still on track]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/01/xbl-vision-camera-delayed-to-october-2nd-in-europe-and-asia-outs/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/01/xbl-vision-camera-delayed-to-october-2nd-in-europe-and-asia-outs/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/01/xbl-vision-camera-delayed-to-october-2nd-in-europe-and-asia-outs/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

A numbered Xbox Live Vision camera on top of a 360 Major Nelson has corrected an earlier report made during a recent Blogcast concerning the release date for the Xbox Live Vision camera: it will be out in Europe and Asia (outside of Japan) on October 2nd rather than the earlier September 19th date, which still applies for 360 owners in the U.S.

We suppose the short wait is better than the lack of any confirmed release dates for Japan, New Zealand, Australia, or any of the other countries in which the system has already been officially launched. At least Japanese gamers can still converse on their original Xboxes with the Xbox Video Chat camera that was released only in that fair land. They might not get to play UNO on the current generation of hardware, but it's better than nothing.

[Via Xbox 360 Fanboy]

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JoystiqXBL Vision camera delayed to October 2nd in Europe and Asia outside of Japan; U.S. Sept. 19th release still on track originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 01 Jun 2006 21:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>delaysMicrosoftPCXbox-360Xbox-Live-VisionThu, 01 Jun 2006 21:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Chicago signing for Uematsu, Aki, & Roth tonight]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/26/chicago-signing-for-uematsu-aki-and-roth-tonight/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/26/chicago-signing-for-uematsu-aki-and-roth-tonight/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/26/chicago-signing-for-uematsu-aki-and-roth-tonight/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Angela Aki, Arnie Roth, and Nobuo Uematsu in an entirely Photoshopped group shotAre you in Chicago tonight for the big PLAY! concert tomorrow, but weren't willing to shell out $125 for the VIP meet-and-greet at the event? Well, you might be in luck (even if you're not attending), as a few famous folks from the concert will be on hand to sign autographs in Chicago proper for free tonight.

From 7 to 9 PM (presumably Central time) at the Tower Records store on 2301 N. Clark St., Final Fantasy composer Nobuo Uematsu, bilingual songstress Angela Aki (who wrote and sang the theme song for FFXII), and Principal Conductor and Music Director of PLAY! Arnie Roth will be signing autographs to promote the world-tour premiere of 'PLAY! A Video Game Symphony' and the CD for More Friends - Music from FINAL FANTASY.

While this blogger is sadly occupied with prior engagements tonight, gamers in the area are more than welcome to mob that Tower Records and cause the store's employees much consternation and bewilderment. If you don't have any imported CDs to sign, however, don't fret: the store's web site claims to have "some awesome Japanese imports available for you to purchase and have autographed at the event." Not only that, Angela Aki will be performing live as well. Score! Anybody wanna tell us how this evening turns out when it's all sung and done?

[Via The Daily Northwestern; image culled from Angela Aki's blog, Nobuo Uematsu's Squenix profile, and Arnie Roth's 2005 interview with IGN]

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JoystiqChicago signing for Uematsu, Aki, & Roth tonight originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 May 2006 14:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>$1252301 N. Clark St.2301N.ClarkSt.AkiAngela AkiAngelaAkiArnie RothArnieRothattendattendingautographautographsbilingualCDCDsChicagocomposerconcertconductordirectoreventFFFF 12FF XIIFf12FfXiiFinal FantasyFinal Fantasy 12Final Fantasy XIIFinalFantasyFinalFantasy12FinalFantasyXiifreeimportimportedJapanJapaneselivemaestromeet and greetmeet-and-greetMeetAndGreetMore FriendsMoreFriendsMusic DirectorMusic from Final FantasyMusicDirectorMusicFromFinalFantasyNobuoNobuo UematsuNobuoUematsuperformperformingPLAY!PLAY! A Video Game SymphonyPlay!AVideoGameSymphonypremierePrincipal ConductorPrincipalConductorpromotepromotingpromotionPS2RothsangsignsigningsingsongsongstressSquare-Enixsungsymphonythemetheme songThemeSongtourTowerTower RecordsTowerRecordsUematsuVIPworld tourworld-tourWorldTourFri, 26 May 2006 14:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Offer for one free year of EGM ends today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/26/offer-for-one-free-year-of-egm-ends-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/26/offer-for-one-free-year-of-egm-ends-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/26/offer-for-one-free-year-of-egm-ends-today/#commentsFiled under:


"Free" offers on the internet often come with annoying trials and lengthy cancellation procedures, but this one here's legit -- it's actually running from the subscription web site of the publisher of EGM, Ziff Davis Media.

You may have seen this offer for 12 free issues of Electronic Gaming Monthly on Joystiq or other game sites out there. Basically, what's happening is the Ziff Davis Game Group is running a subscription drive for the mag, sponsored by the World Cyber Games. Free subs are only on offer through today, however, so get a move on if you want a piece of the printed action.

Of course, EGM may be no OPM, but it's helpful for even the healthiest fanboy to get a balanced diet of multiplatform news and information on a regular basis. Also, please note that you're under no obligation to sign up for the World Cyber Games page which follows the EGM subscription one, so you can absolutely get your free mag without registering with the WCG.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqOffer for one free year of EGM ends today originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 May 2006 07:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 year1-year12 free issues12 issues12FreeIssues12Issues1YeardriveEGMElectronic Gaming MonthlyElectronicGamingMonthlyfanboyfreeGame GroupGameGrouphealthiesthealthiest fanboyHealthiestFanboyhealthyJoystiqmagmagazinemulti-platformmultiplatformofferOfficial PlayStation MagazineOfficialPlaystationMagazineone yearone-yearOneYearOPMprintprintedregisterregisteringsign upsign-upSignUpsubsubssubscriptionsubscription driveSubscriptionDriveWCGWorld Cyber GamesWorldCyberGamesZDZiffZiff DavisZiff Davis Game GroupZiff Davis MediaZiffDavisZiffDavisGameGroupZiffDavisMediaFri, 26 May 2006 07:32:00 EST<![CDATA["I Hate You, E3," declares Escapist writer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/23/i-hate-you-e3-declares-escapist-writer/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/23/i-hate-you-e3-declares-escapist-writer/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/23/i-hate-you-e3-declares-escapist-writer/#commentsFiled under: , ,

'I Hate You, E3,' so says a writer for The EscapistOkay, so maybe not hate completely.

The eye-catching title of an essay from the latest installment of The Escapist puts the emphasis on the negative aspect of the love-hate relationship many industry vets have with E3, but there's surprisingly a lot of love for the trade show here, even if you don't subscribe to the hardened "I hate E3 because I love it" theory of convention devotion.

While the Joystiq staff hasn't been to quite as many E3s as the founder of the International Game Journalists Association (IGJA), we can certainly empathize with the world-weariness that might accumulate after years of weeklong death- press-marches and working in overcrowded, sensory-overloaded spaces. We just hope our love of the game(s) will stay with us as it has for Mr. Thomas, whether we're watching from home or working the show floor in person in post-apocalyptic L.A. The parties will be sure to be awesome.

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Joystiq"I Hate You, E3," declares Escapist writer originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 May 2006 19:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accumulateawesomeconventionDavid ThomasDavidThomasdeath-marchdeath-marchesdevotionE3E3'sE3sempathizeEscapisteye-catchingfounderhateheadlineHiltonI hate E3 because I love itI Hate You, E3IGJAIHateE3BecauseILoveItIHateYou,E3industryindustry vetsIndustryVetsInternational Game Journalists AssociationInternationalGameJournalistsAssociationissuelinklinkedlinkslovelove of the gamelove of the game(s)love of the gameslove-hateLoveOfTheGameLoveOfTheGame(s)LoveOfTheGamesmega-sitemegasiteMr. ThomasMr.ThomasovercrowdedParisParis HiltonParisHiltonpartiespartypicpicspress-marchpress-marchesreferencereferencedreferencesrelationshipsensory-overloadsensory-overloadedshow floorshow-floorShowFloorstaffThe EscapistTheEscapisttheoryThomastitletrade showTradeShowvetveteranveteransvetsweeklongworld-wearinessworld-wearyyearsTue, 23 May 2006 19:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: 360 wireless gaming receiver $20; wheel $130; headset $60; camera $40; Halo and Forza faceplates $20 [update 1]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/12/rumor-360-wireless-gaming-receiver-20-wheel-130-headset-60/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/12/rumor-360-wireless-gaming-receiver-20-wheel-130-headset-60/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/12/rumor-360-wireless-gaming-receiver-20-wheel-130-headset-60/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

360 wireless gaming receiver for the PCThanks to a reliable source from Microsoft, we've learned some important details about the new peripherals announced for the Xbox 360, including pricing and a few Halo faceplate (non)specifics. Check out the leaked info and prices below:
  • 360 wireless gaming receiver (which enables wireless 360 controllers, headsets, and wheels on your PC): $20
  • Wireless racing wheel: $130
  • Wireless headset: $60
  • Xbox Live Vision Camera (with headset, one month of Live Gold, and one arcade -- presumably Xbox Live Arcade -- game): $40
  • New faceplates for Halo (with the Master Chief on 'em, but not Halo 3 specific) and Forza (no word on connections to the sequel): $20 each
  • 256 MB portable memory unit (MU): no official price yet, but definitely not four times the cost of the older 64MB MU
Besides acknowledging that the PC is "the biggest gaming device of all," MS appears to be setting an agressive price for its most relevant new PC accessory, the wireless gaming receiver (at least in comparison to the outrageously priced 360 wireless networking adapter). Unfortunately, no price was revealed as of yet for the USB-based HD-DVD add-on.

We've speculated in our recent podcasts as to what would happen to the various 360 SKUs when price drops inevitably occur. An interesting theory bandied about by prolific Joystiq Contributor epobirs (on our earlier bump-to-256MB-MU post) was that a $20 price drop for the Core system, coupled with a $20 price drop on the 64MB MU, would finally allow folks to pick up a capable non-Premium bundle for the original $300 Core price point. (Not a bad way to undercut PS2 memory card prices, too.) We hope to get official confirmation on this info in the not-too-distant future.

[Update: Sorry, had the camera price wrong in the headline; it now matches the price of the bundle listed in the body of the text below.]

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JoystiqRumor: 360 wireless gaming receiver $20; wheel $130; headset $60; camera $40; Halo and Forza faceplates $20 [update 1] originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 May 2006 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>(non)specific(non)specifics256MB360 SKUs360Skus64MBaccessoryadd-onarcadebiggest gaming device of allBiggestGamingDeviceOfAllbundlecameracommentcommentatorcommentedcommenterconfirmconfirmationcontributorcontrollercontrollersCoreCore systemCoreSystemE3e32006epobirsfaceplatefaceplatesForzagaming receiverGamingReceiverGoldHaloHalo 3Halo3HD-DVDHD-DVD add-onHD-DVD playerHd-dvdAdd-onHd-dvdPlayerheadsetheadsetsJoystiq ContributorJoystiqContributorLive ArcadeLive GoldLive Vision CameraLiveArcadeLiveGoldLiveVisionCameraMaster ChiefMasterChiefmemory cardmemory unitMemoryCardMemoryUnitMicrosoftMSMUnetwork adapterNetworkAdapternetworking adapterNetworkingAdapternon-Bluetoothnon-specificnon-specificsofficialPCpodcastpodcastsportable memory unitPortableMemoryUnitpriceprice dropprice dropsprice pointPriceDropPriceDropsPricePointpricingPS2 memory cardPS2 memory cardsPs2MemoryCardPs2MemoryCardsracing wheelRacingWheelrumorSKUSKUsspecificsundercutUSBUSB-basedVision CameraVisionCamerawheelwheelswireless gaming receiverwireless headsetwireless network adapterwireless networking adapterWirelessGamingReceiverWirelessHeadsetWirelessNetworkAdapterWirelessNetworkingAdapterXbox Live ArcadeXbox Live Vision CameraXbox-360XboxLiveArcadeXboxLiveVisionCameraFri, 12 May 2006 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Frame City Killer killed; RPG to replace it in lineup]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/12/frame-city-killer-killed-rpg-to-replace-it-in-lineup/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/12/frame-city-killer-killed-rpg-to-replace-it-in-lineup/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/12/frame-city-killer-killed-rpg-to-replace-it-in-lineup/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Frame City Killer cancelled?If internet reports are to be believed, Frame City Killer has been cancelled, with an unnamed RPG replacing it in Bandai-Namco's roster of upcoming games.

We knew that FCK (as it's affectionately known in the gaming community) was having some problems -- with multiple delays stemming from poor graphics and inadequate content -- but most 360 owners expected the game to come out one way or another sometime later this year.

If you're a member of the Frame City Underground (the official fan community for the game), a pretty clear announcement in English has already been made. Check out the full text below. FCK ... we'll miss you.

[Thanks, murph, Blue_Six, & a tipster who'd like to remain anonymous; via Evil Avatar & GameFront]

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Continue reading Frame City Killer killed; RPG to replace it in lineup

JoystiqFrame City Killer killed; RPG to replace it in lineup originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 May 2006 12:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>affectionately knownAffectionatelyKnownannouncementBandai NamcoBandai-NamcoBandaiNamcodelaydelaysE3e32006EnglishFCKFrame CityFrame City KillerFrame City UndergroundFrameCityFrameCityKillerFrameCityUndergroundinadequate contentInadequateContentJapaneselater this yearLaterThisYearmembermissmultiple delaysMultipleDelaysNamcoofficialofficial fan communityOfficialFanCommunitypoor graphicsPoorGraphicsproblemstranslationunnamedXbox-360Fri, 12 May 2006 12:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Cheaper PS3 loses HDMI, slots, Wi-Fi, 40GB]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/09/cheaper-ps3-loses-hdmi-slots-wi-fi-40gb/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/09/cheaper-ps3-loses-hdmi-slots-wi-fi-40gb/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/09/cheaper-ps3-loses-hdmi-slots-wi-fi-40gb/#commentsFiled under:

PS3 SKU comparison montage
As you can see above, there are a few things different between the two PS3 SKUs planned. (Hint: the obvious alterations concern high-def output and wireless connectivity -- though Bluetooth controllers should work just fine with both, with or without any chrome case highlighting.)

So what's HDMI, built-in multimedia card-reader slots, wireless internet connectivity, and an extra 40 gigabytes' hard disk space worth to you? $100? Now that Sony's gone with the 2-SKU approach with its next-gen hardware (a la the Xbox 360's premium and "Core" systems), we can expect some tough consumer choices after six months -- with console shortages possibly for another six months after that -- as $100 separates the base $499 and premium $599 versions of Sony's "Clear Black" hope.

HDMI is important to those who want to take full advantage of Blu-ray high def and have the new screens to use it; MemoryStick, SD, and CompactFlash slots would be nice for the PS3 memory-card users and those will run multimedia on the system; Wi-Fi's the only way to avoid stringing ethernet cables for online access; and 360 owners might appreciate the full 60GB available to potential buyers of the premium PS3 model. Neither model comes with a second HDMI port; thankfully, one should hopefully be all most users need. The details are laid out in a feature-comparison table at the end of Sony's official PS3 hardware press release, available in both Adobe Reader and Microsoft Word formats. Determine what's most important to your PS3 ambitions there.

[Image pieced together from the PlayStation.com forums; thanks, Guru]

JoystiqCheaper PS3 loses HDMI, slots, Wi-Fi, 40GB originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 May 2006 03:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>$100$499$500$599$6002-SKU20GB36040 GB40Gb6 months60GB6MonthsaccessAdobe ReaderAdobeReaderalterationsambitionambitionsbaseBlu-rayBluetoothbuilt-inbuyerbuyerscablecablescard readercard-readerCardReadercaseCFcheapcheaperchoicechoiceschromeClear BlackClearBlackCompact FlashCompactFlashcomparisoncomparisonsconnectivityconsolecontrollercontrollersCorecustomerdifferentethernetexpensivefeaturefeature-comparisonfeaturesformatformatsforumforumshard diskhard driveHardDiskHardDrivehardwareHDHDMIhigh-defhighlighthighlightinghighlightsimage montageImageMontageimportantinternetmemory cardMemory Stickmemory-cardMemoryCardMemoryStickMicrosoft WordMicrosoftWordmodelmodelsmontagemore expensiveMoreExpensivemultimedianext-genofficialomissionsonlineoutputpotentialpremiumpress releasePressReleasePS3ReaderscreenscreensSDSecure DigitalSecureDigitalshortageshortagessix monthsSixMonthsSKUSKUsslotslotsSonySony'sspacesystemsystemsuserusersWi-FiWiFiwirelessWordXboxXbox 360Xbox360Tue, 09 May 2006 03:32:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 pad loses DualShock name and vibration but picks up Wii-esque motion detection and wireless connectivity]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/09/ps3-pad-loses-dualshock-name-and-vibration-but-picks-up-wii-esqu/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/09/ps3-pad-loses-dualshock-name-and-vibration-but-picks-up-wii-esqu/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/09/ps3-pad-loses-dualshock-name-and-vibration-but-picks-up-wii-esqu/#commentsFiled under:

Revised PS3 pad rear-view shot
In a shocking turn of events, the PS3 controller has gone from banamerang to wireless DualShock 3, except without the DualShock name and vibration.

If you take a good look at the back of the new control pad (see the close-up above), you'll notice that the DualShock 2 brand name imprinted on the old controller has now been supplanted by a row of LED lights to show which input has been set, either wirelessly or via the wired USB recharge port. Sony's now the only name in-line for PS3 controllers either on the pad or in the press releases (see "the new PS3 controller").

Continue reading PS3 pad loses DualShock name and vibration but picks up Wii-esque motion detection and wireless connectivity

JoystiqPS3 pad loses DualShock name and vibration but picks up Wii-esque motion detection and wireless connectivity originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 May 2006 00:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>360adaptadaptedadaptsadoptadoptedadoptsanalogbanamerangbananabatarangbatteriesbatteryBluetoothboomerangbrand nameBrandNamebumpercasecasingconnectconnectivitycontrol padcontrollercontrollersControlPadcourtdetectdetectingdetectionDual ShockDual Shock 2Dual Shock 3DualShockDualShock 2DualShock 3DualShock2DualShock3force feedbackforce-feedbackForceFeedbackfunctionalityGuidehaptichardwareImmersionin-lineincorporateinputinterfacelaterallawsuitLEDLED lightsLedLightsmanufacturermotionnamenewNintendooldpadpatentpitchPlayStationPlayStation 2Playstation2portpredecessorpress releasepress releasesPressReleasePressReleasesPS2rechargeRevolutionrollrumblesensingshouldersix-axisSonysupporttriggerUSBUSB recharge portUsbRechargePortvibrationweighweighsWiiWii-moteWiimotewiredwirelesswirelesslyX-Y-ZXboxXbox 360Xbox LiveXbox360XboxLiveyawTue, 09 May 2006 00:58:00 EST<![CDATA[3 Final Fantasy XIII games; 2 just for PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/08/3-final-fantasy-xiii-games-2-just-for-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/08/3-final-fantasy-xiii-games-2-just-for-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/08/3-final-fantasy-xiii-games-2-just-for-ps3/#commentsFiled under:

FFXIII screen with new heroine in action
Final Fantasy XII won't be out for the PS2 in the States until October, but we now have a glimpse of Final Fantasy XIII thanks to Square Enix's pre-E3 press event -- and this installment in the series won't be coming alone.

Like the different titles in the Compilation of FFVII collection of games and movies, the initially announced installments in the FFXIII universe will span multiple platforms which, in this case, include both the PS3 and sufficiently advanced mobile handsets. Not much is known about the mobile-bound Final Fantasy Agito XIII, but the subtitle-less version of FFXIII will concern a gun-and-sword-toting heroine in a futuristic world, while Final Fantasy Versus XIII will focus on "a spiky-haired character," "extreme action elements," and a primary theme of "bonding" (whatever that means). Anybody ready to "resist the world"?

The multiple titles might explain the earlier rumor reported in March that FFXIII was "practically close to being finished" (maybe only one of these games was nearing completion). Whatever the case may be, we're just happy that more than one not-so-Final-Fantasy will be hitting the next PlayStation in relatively rapid succession. RPG feasting: on the way.

[Via Joystiq]

Joystiq3 Final Fantasy XIII games; 2 just for PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 May 2006 22:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionannouncedbondingcharacterCompilation of FF VIICompilation of FFVIICompilation of Final Fantasy 7Compilation of Final Fantasy VIICompilationOfFfviiCompilationOfFinalFantasy7CompilationOfFinalFantasyViicompletecompletedcompletiondifferent titlesDifferentTitlesextremeextreme actionextreme action elementsExtremeActionExtremeActionElementsFFFF 12FF XIIFF XIIIFf12FF13FF7FFVIIFFXIIFFXIIIFinal FantasyFinal Fantasy 12Final Fantasy 13Final Fantasy 7Final Fantasy Agito XIIIFinal Fantasy Versus XIIIFinal Fantasy VIIFinal Fantasy XIIFinal Fantasy XIIIFinalFantasyFinalFantasy12FinalFantasy13FinalFantasy7FinalFantasyAgitoXiiiFinalFantasyVersusXiiiFinalFantasyViiFinalFantasyXiiFinalFantasyXiiifinishedfuturisticfuturistic worldFuturisticWorldgunhandsethandsetsheroinemobilemultipleNomuraOctoberplatformsPlayStationpre-E3press eventPressEventprimary themePrimaryThemePS2resist the worldResistTheWorldrole playing gamerole-playing gameRole-playingGameRolePlayingGameRPGrumorseriesspiky hairspiky hairedspiky-hairedSpikyHairSpikyHairedSquareSquare EnixSquareEnixswordTetsuya NomuraTetsuyaNomuratitletitlesuniverseMon, 08 May 2006 22:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Virtua Fighter 5 only for PS3 next spring]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/08/virtua-fighter-5-only-for-ps3-next-spring/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/08/virtua-fighter-5-only-for-ps3-next-spring/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/08/virtua-fighter-5-only-for-ps3-next-spring/#commentsFiled under:

The new characters from Virtua Fighter 5
There was a time when Virtua Fighter 5 was considered a strong candidate for an arcade port to the Xbox 360, but that multiplatform hope's been dashed with the official announcement that VF5 will appear only on PS3 in the spring of 2007. Sega's technical fighter is a Sony exclusive once more.

While home-console online play remains doubtful at this point, next-gen PlayStation owners can now securely look forward to facing off as El Blaze and Eileen (the new luchador and monkey kung-fu artist, respectively) along with the other 15 fighters, decked out in all sorts of items purchased in the in-game store with prize money earned through in-game matches.

VF5 will support up to 720p HD resolution and will be featured in game footage in the SEGA booth at E3 (South Hall, Booth #946) later this week.

[Thanks, Matt; also via Joystiq]

JoystiqVirtua Fighter 5 only for PS3 next spring originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 May 2006 19:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>360720parcadeE3EileenEl BlazeElBlazeexclusivefighterfightersfootageHDhome consolehome-consoleHomeConsolein-gameitemitemskung-fulucha libreluchadorLuchaLibrematchmatchesmoneymonkeymonkey kung-fuMonkeyKung-fumultiplatformonlineonline playOnlinePlayPlayStationportresolutionSegashopSonySouth HallSouthHallspringspring 2007spring of 2007Spring2007SpringOf2007storetechnical fighterTechnicalFighterVFVF5Virtua FighterVirtua Fighter 5VirtuaFighterVirtuaFighter5Xbox 360Xbox360Mon, 08 May 2006 19:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on with God of War II]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/08/hands-on-with-god-of-war-ii/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/08/hands-on-with-god-of-war-ii/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/08/hands-on-with-god-of-war-ii/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

A closer look at Kratos in action in God of War II
IGN got an early hands-on preview of God of War II, and they're lovin' what Sony's Santa Monica studio has come up with so far.

Without revealing too much of the sequel's plot, our hairless hero now sports some new magical attacks and context-sensitive finishing moves. Needless to say, prominent Greek mythological figures will also be showing up to keep Kratos company, and there will certainly be a lot of flashy slashing-first-ask-questions-later kind of action to fill the hours.

For more spoilers on "an early section of the sequel," simply follow the image link above or Read link below, where you can find a few more details on the new power-up system and annoying enemy combatants (otherwise known as smarter fodder for your sharper blades). A practical explanation goes into the reasons for keeping things on the PS2 rather than the PS3, and hopefully less frustrating puzzles are revealed as well. More will likely be revealed at Sony's big E3 press conference today.

See also:

JoystiqHands-on with God of War II originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 May 2006 18:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bladesbuildcontext-sensitiveDavid JaffeDavidJaffeE3e32006earlyearly buildEarlyBuildfinishing movesFinishingMovesflashyGod of WarGod of War 2God of War IIGodOfWarGodOfWar2GodOfWarIiGreekhairless heroHairlessHerohands onhands-onHandsOnJaffeKratosmagical attacksMagicalAttacksmythologicalmythsplotpower-uppreviewPS2puzzlesSanta MonicaSantaMonicasequelslashslashingSonySpartanspoilersstudioMon, 08 May 2006 18:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Preview of new Guitar Hero II co-op mode]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/08/preview-of-new-guitar-hero-ii-co-op-mode/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/08/preview-of-new-guitar-hero-ii-co-op-mode/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/08/preview-of-new-guitar-hero-ii-co-op-mode/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Screenshot of new Guitar Hero II co-op mode
In case you missed it on Friday, IGN posted a pre-E3 hands-on preview of Guitar Hero II's new co-op mode. It's a departure from the first game's multiplayer mode in that the two players have to depend on each other a lot more to pass each song and thereby make beautiful music together.

While the old multiplayer option will still be around in the sequel, the new mode mixes distinct lead guitar and bass or rhythm parts where each player affects the other in various ways, whether by failing if either performance slips (as in DDR), sharing the same Rock Meter (with mistakes from either player resetting the score multiplier), and needing to both go vertical at the same time to activate the shared Star Power. Thankfully, different difficulty levels can be assigned to each player.

The Joystiq team out in L.A. will probably find something to do until they get their sweaty paws on a guitar controller or two on the E3 show floor (maybe one of those wacky press conferences will help pass the time), but we're sure the wait to try the latest build of this rockin' series will be worth it. The seven songs available at E3 are listed below.

[Thanks, murph]

Continue reading Preview of new Guitar Hero II co-op mode

JoystiqPreview of new Guitar Hero II co-op mode originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 May 2006 15:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activatebassbass guitarBassGuitarco-opco-op modeCo-opModecontrollercooperativecooperative modeCooperativeModeDDRdependdifficultydifficulty leveldifficulty levelsDifficultyLevelDifficultyLevelsE3e32006failfailsguitarguitar controllerGuitar HeroGuitar Hero 2Guitar Hero IIguitar peripheralGuitarControllerGuitarHeroGuitarHero2GuitarHeroIiGuitarPeripheralhands-onL.A.LAleadlead guitarLeadGuitarlevellevelsLos AngelesLosAngelesmodemultiplayermultipliermusicnew modeNewModeoptionpasspassesperformanceperipheralplayerplayerspreviewPS2rhythm guitarRhythmGuitarRockRock Meterrockinrockin'RockMetersequelsharesharedshowshow floorShowFloorslipssongsongsStar PowerStar Power MeterStarPowerStarPowerMetertriggerMon, 08 May 2006 15:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Yuji Naka confirmed to be leaving Sega to form Prope]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/08/yuji-naka-confirmed-to-be-leaving-sega-to-form-prope/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/08/yuji-naka-confirmed-to-be-leaving-sega-to-form-prope/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/08/yuji-naka-confirmed-to-be-leaving-sega-to-form-prope/#commentsFiled under:

Yuji Naka strikes a poseBack in March, we heard rumblings that Sega stalwart Yuji Naka was planning to leave Sega to start his own studio. Today, that rumor's been confirmed.

According to Next Generation, Naka's new company is called Prope, which means "'beside' and 'near' future." Prope's web site (not linked on Next Gen) apparently explains that the name was chosen "in the hopes of bringing game entertainment much closer to users, establishing closer ties between users and us, and creating near future entertainment."

We're just happy that Naka is retaining some ties to his old corporate home thanks to a 10% contribution on Sega's part to prop up the emerging new independent studio (a concept which Sega seems to support with its developers). Unfortunately, as the firm "will commit to new IP," you shouldn't expect updates of Sega classic franchises from the old hand anytime soon. It will also be interesting to see who's guiding the new Sonic games as well. Prope will open for business on June 1st.

[Thanks, Sense; via 8-bit Ninja]

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JoystiqYuji Naka confirmed to be leaving Sega to form Prope originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 May 2006 12:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>besideclassic franchiseclassic franchisesClassicFranchiseClassicFranchisesclosercloser tiesCloserTiesconfirmedcontributiondeveloperdevelopersfuture entertainmentFutureEntertainmentindependentIPJune 1June 1stJune1June1stNakanear futureNearFuturenew companynew IPNewCompanyNewIpNext GenNext GenerationNextGenNextGenerationNiGHTSNiGHTS into DreamsNightsIntoDreamsProperumorSegaSonicstudiosupportupdatesYuji NakaYujiNakaMon, 08 May 2006 12:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Call of Duty 3 announced; leak confirmed [update 1]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/06/call-of-duty-3-announced-leak-confirmed/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/06/call-of-duty-3-announced-leak-confirmed/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/06/call-of-duty-3-announced-leak-confirmed/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Call of Duty 3 logo screen
Call of Duty 3's just been confirmed, and it looks like we were right on the money with our early leak of the WWII-related game.

Back in early March, we printed the following information (and a whole lot more) on the focus of an upcoming sequel: "'CoD 3' ... is being produced by Big Red One dev Treyarch. ... The next Call of Duty World War II-based title will return gamers to the battlefields of Normandy as the Allies take on Nazi Germany to drive them out of France once and for all. This time around, American and British forces are joined by Canadian troops, Polish tanks, and French freedom fighters in a reenactment of the bloody Normandy Breakout campaign spearheaded during the summer of 1944. In the push to Paris, you'll get to choose how you approach each mission, free of menu screens and jarring non-interactive cut-scenes."

Here's what IGN quoted from Activision for the announcement yesterday: "Through the eyes of four Allied soldiers, Call of Duty 3 brings players closer to the fury of combat as they fight through the Normandy Breakout, the harrowing offensive that liberated Paris and changed the fate of the world. Developed by Treyarch, Call of Duty 3 is the follow up to the #1 next-generation game and is scheduled for a 2006 release." Fingering the developer and the setting? Not too shabby -- while Joystiq pats itself on the back.

Check out the IGN trailer below for a first-person look somewhat reminiscent of the FPS sequence in the Metal Gear Solid 4 trailer from TGS. At the end of the "official E3 teaser" trailer, a number of platforms are listed, with the major manufacturers (including a small "Nintendo Revolution" in text) and publisher/developer combo listed. We suspect that versions for the PC and possibly the current-gen consoles will be covered with ports as well. Now all we have to do is wait for the word on Call of Duty: Modern Warfare. (Infinity Ward, we're looking at you!) More info obviously hitting at E3.

[Thanks, icemorebutts, jason, & Hiro Protagonist]

[Update 1: Had to fix a verb. Thanks, Hiro Protagonist, John Q, & Jiiiiihad!]

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JoystiqCall of Duty 3 announced; leak confirmed [update 1] originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 06 May 2006 10:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActivisionAlliedAlliesAmericanBig Red OneBigRedOneBritishCall of DutyCall of Duty 3Call of Duty: Modern WarfareCallOfDutyCallOfDuty3CallOfDuty:ModernWarfareCanadianconfirmedcurrent-genE3e32006early leakEarlyLeakFrancefreedom fightersFreedomFightersFrenchInfinity WardInfinityWardleakliberatedMetal Gear SolidMetal Gear Solid 4MetalGearSolidMetalGearSolid4MGSMGS4NaziNazi GermanyNaziGermanyNazisnext-genNormandyNormandy BreakoutNormandyBreakoutofficialParisPCPolishportportsPS2PS3RevolutionsequelsoldierstanksteaserTGStrailerTreyarchtroopsWiiWWIIWWII-relatedXboxXbox-360Sat, 06 May 2006 10:26:00 EST<![CDATA[LEGO Star Wars II jumps onto the Xbox 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/06/lego-star-wars-ii-jumps-on-to-the-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/06/lego-star-wars-ii-jumps-on-to-the-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/06/lego-star-wars-ii-jumps-on-to-the-xbox-360/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

HanGreedo -- the hybrid that should never beLEGO Star Wars II: The Original Trilogy will now be making an appearance on the Xbox 360, along with its earlier announced platforms (which include pretty much every current-gen system).

Whether creating a Han Solo-Greedo, lightsaber-wielding humanoid hybrid is really the wisest course of action or not is a debate best left to the fan community, however. (A green HanGreedo on the 360 -- it could work.)

Our only hope is that the original LEGO Star Wars will make its way onto the official Xbox backward-compatibility list by the time the sequel's released in September. Getting those unlockable characters from the prequels onto the next generation would be awfully nice. (Transferable saves? Even better.) The complete Lucasfilm press release follows below.

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Continue reading LEGO Star Wars II jumps onto the Xbox 360

JoystiqLEGO Star Wars II jumps onto the Xbox 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 06 May 2006 02:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActionDSFamilyGameCubeLegoLego-Star-WarsLego-Star-Wars-2Lego-Star-Wars-2-The-Original-TrilogyLucasartsMicrosoftNintendoPCPS2PSPstar-warsTravellers-TalesTT-GamesXboxXbox-360Sat, 06 May 2006 02:45:00 EST<![CDATA[LEGO Star Wars II out with OT DVDs Sept 12]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/04/lego-star-wars-ii-out-with-ot-dvds-sept-12/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/04/lego-star-wars-ii-out-with-ot-dvds-sept-12/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/04/lego-star-wars-ii-out-with-ot-dvds-sept-12/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

AT-ST walker from LEGO Star Wars II: The Original TrilogyLEGO Star Wars II: The Original Trilogy will be out this fall when it releases with the unaltered original trilogy DVDs on September 12th.

Sure, the limited-edition double dipping on the theatrical version of the films may rile movie collectors, but fans do want Han shooting first on their Star Wars DVDs. (The "theatrical" release will only be available until December 31st.)

The simultaneous release of game and film on DVD follows in the tradition of the Star Wars Battlefront games releasing alongside the special-edition release of the original trilogy as well as the retail launch of Episode III. The special-edition versions will also be included on each two-disc set.

[Thanks, Spindash54, Phil Theobald, Princess Zelda, John, & Jonathan]

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JoystiqLEGO Star Wars II out with OT DVDs Sept 12 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 May 2006 16:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActionDSFamilyGameCubeLegoLego-Star-WarsLego-Star-Wars-2Lego-Star-Wars-2-The-Original-TrilogyLucasartsMicrosoftNintendoPCPS2PSPTravellers-TalesTT-GamesXboxXbox-360Thu, 04 May 2006 16:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Console Wars puts spin on mascot Gamepires]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/05/super-console-wars-puts-spin-on-mascot-gamepires/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/05/super-console-wars-puts-spin-on-mascot-gamepires/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/05/super-console-wars-puts-spin-on-mascot-gamepires/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,


We've seen Mario in the Matrix, Luigi as a Braveheart, and what we thought was everything in between. Well, hold up, 'cuz now we've seen everything: classic game icons have been mashed up with Star Wars.

Super Console Wars: The Gamepire Strikes Gold is that hybrid that with good and evil roles spread out onto each platform and various gaming mascots, ranging from Mario clone troopers vs. Princess Zelda to a VMU droid and GPU-enabled android (erm, peripheral).

About two-thirds of the way through the 20-minute video, you're gently encouraged to wear 3D glasses to enhance your video viewing, but even without glasses, the parody stands as an amusing take-off of gaming standards, pop culture, and retro reminiscing. Obi-Wan Shinobi, indeed.

[Thanks, Cradrock]

See also:

JoystiqSuper Console Wars puts spin on mascot Gamepires originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Apr 2006 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3-D3DandroidBraveheartcloneclonesdroidevilGameCubeGamepireGamepiresglassesgoodGoogleGPULuigiMariomascotmascotsMatrixObi-WanObi-Wan ShinobiObi-wanShinobiparodyPCplatformpop culturePopCulturePrincessPrincess ZeldaPrincessZeldaPS2reminiscereminiscingShinobiStar WarsStarWarsSuper Console WarsSuperConsoleWarstake-offThe Gamepire Strikes GoldTheGamepireStrikesGoldtroopertroopersVMUXboxWed, 05 Apr 2006 19:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Engineering the DS Lite: 2 Nintendo hardware vets speak]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/05/engineering-the-ds-lite-2-nintendo-hardware-vets-speak/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/05/engineering-the-ds-lite-2-nintendo-hardware-vets-speak/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/05/engineering-the-ds-lite-2-nintendo-hardware-vets-speak/#commentsFiled under: , ,

White DS Lite open and closed side-by-sideEver wonder what decisions go into a hardware redesign? Thanks to the latest edition of Nintendo's Japanese online mag, we finally get a portable peek into the DS Lite.

Two Nintendo engineers who worked on the cuter DS sibling reveal how they pulled off the svelte new look while maintaining things like usability, battery life, and cost.

Who knew that the new stylus was made "longer and wider to accommodate older users" (the Brain Age demographic who'd taken such a shine to the now shinier little system)? Durable, reliable hardware: it's what Nintendo does best. Let's hope they continue that trend with the Lite, as well as whatever other slicker iterations of the handheld that we're tempted to purchase -- or repurchase -- in the future.

[Thanks, Princess Zelda; also via DS Fanboy]

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JoystiqEngineering the DS Lite: 2 Nintendo hardware vets speak originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Apr 2006 12:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battery lifeBatteryLifeBrain AgeBrainAgecostdecisiondecisionsdemographicDSDS LiteDS siblingDsLiteDsSiblingdurableengineerengineeringengineershardwareiterationiterationsJapaneseNintendoolder usersOlderUsersonline magonline magazineOnlineMagOnlineMagazinepurchaseredesignreliablerepurchaseshineshiniershinyslickslickerstylussvelteusabilityvetvetsWed, 05 Apr 2006 12:57:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 could debut in Europe for 500 euros, says SCEE exec]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/05/ps3-could-debut-in-europe-for-500-euros-says-scee-exec/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/05/ps3-could-debut-in-europe-for-500-euros-says-scee-exec/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/05/ps3-could-debut-in-europe-for-500-euros-says-scee-exec/#commentsFiled under:

A stack of eurosLa PlayStation Trois! French gamers must be familiar with that combination by now, and if a certain Sony executive gets his way, the PS3 could be appearing in Europe for as low as 500 euros this fall.

Apparently George Fornay (president of Sony Computer Entertainment France and vice president of Sony Computer Entertainment Europe) confirmed to Generation Europe 1, in French, that the PS3 could be priced around the 500 euro mark, most likely between 499 euros and 599 euros. For the unfiltered French audio, try the Play button near the middle of Europe 1's podcast page here.

Such an estimated figure may include Europe's Value Added Tax (VAT), so the final price range in the States might well be lower than the current U.S. currency equivalent of roughly $600-$725 for those many euros. Of course, who's to say whether Mr. Fornay was simply speculating on a local podcast or whether he actually exhibited loose lips before the French press?

[Thanks, Fan; also via Joystiq]

JoystiqPS3 could debut in Europe for 500 euros, says SCEE exec originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Apr 2006 11:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>499 euros499Euros500 euros500Euros599 euros599Euroscurrency equivalentCurrencyEquivalentdebutEuropeEurope 1Europe1execexecutiveFrenchGeneration Europe 1GenerationEurope1George FornayGeorgeFornayLa PlayStation TroisLaPlaystationTroisloose lipsLooseLipsPlaypodcastpresidentpressSCEESony Computer Entertainment FranceSonyComputerEntertainmentFrancespeculatingValue Added TaxValueAddedTaxVATvice presidentVicePresidentVPWed, 05 Apr 2006 11:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children reports from Hollywood]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/04/final-fantasy-vii-advent-children-reports-from-hollywood/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/04/final-fantasy-vii-advent-children-reports-from-hollywood/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/04/final-fantasy-vii-advent-children-reports-from-hollywood/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Rachel Leigh Cook as and next to Tifa LockheartFor the Final Fantasy fans lucky enough to be near Hollywood yesterday night -- and in line for free tickets during the middle of a regular workday -- there was much rejoicing to be had as Advent Children celebrated its U.S. theatrical premiere in style.

Siliconera has a write-up on the event with quotes from most of the American voice actors in attendance, who, along with the audience at hand, watched the film in English for the very first time. Lip synching may have been off due to the low-resolution print the actors had to work with, but even Rachel Leigh Cook -- pictured here with her character Tifa Lockheart -- declared herself a new fan of Final Fantasy after the show.

Helpful Joystiq Contributor epobirs also had something to report from the screening yesterday, where he gives us an Ain't-It-Cool style rundown of the event. If you want the rest of his reflections on the requirements of the Academy in Oscar nominations, as well as what it takes to "assert your hetero nature ... after watching a movie packed with metrosexual men," simply continue reading below for more. Siliconera's report can be found by clicking on the image of Ms. Cook above or the Read link below. Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children will be out on DVD/UMD April 25th.

[Thanks, epobirs; image of Tifa courtesy of Eyes on Final Fantasy]

Continue reading Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children reports from Hollywood

JoystiqFinal Fantasy VII: Advent Children reports from Hollywood originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 Apr 2006 11:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AcademyactoractorsAdvent ChildrenAdventChildrenAin't-It-CoolAmericanCookdubdubbingDVDEnglishepobirsfanFinal FantasyFinalFantasyheteroHollywoodLAlow-resolution printLow-resolutionPrintmetrosexualnominatenominatednominationnominationsOscarpremiereprintPSPRachel Leigh CookRachelLeighCookreflectionsreportreportsrequirementsresolutionscreeningSiliconeratheatricalticketsTifaTifa LockheartTifaLockheartU.S.UMDvoice actorvoice actorsVoiceActorVoiceActorsworkdayTue, 04 Apr 2006 11:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Lair off-screen trailer looked good at GDC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/04/lair-off-screen-trailer-looked-good-at-gdc/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/04/lair-off-screen-trailer-looked-good-at-gdc/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/04/lair-off-screen-trailer-looked-good-at-gdc/#commentsFiled under:


Stills and screenshots can only do so much to convey how good a game looks. Here's an off-screen video presentation of Lair recorded from GDC, showing off the Factor 5 game in action (or, should we say, motion).

You might recognize some of the animation from videos seen elsewhere, but it was nice to catch the newer footage of a dragon wireframe model meticulously rendered with layers of musculature and skin, too.

If that's not enough for ya, you can always just listen in to the audio, which features a young lady from Washington asking questions of a developer with the hope of getting hired. Consider this a lesson in networking.

[Via GameBrink]

JoystiqLair off-screen trailer looked good at GDC originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 Apr 2006 08:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animationaudiodeveloperdevelopersdragonFactor 5Factor5footageGDChiredjobLairlayerslessonmodelmotionmusculaturenetworknetworkingoff-screenpresentationquestionquestionsrenderrenderedscreenshotscreenshotsskinstillstillstrailervideovideosWashingtonwireframeyoung ladyYoungLadyTue, 04 Apr 2006 08:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Have Mario send your mail (via stamps from Japan)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/04/have-mario-send-your-mail-via-stamps-from-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/04/have-mario-send-your-mail-via-stamps-from-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/04/have-mario-send-your-mail-via-stamps-from-japan/#commentsFiled under: ,

Mario Japanese stamp sheetSure, old Mario has been known to paint, play professional sports, and even do some actual plumbing work on occasion, but he'll soon be able to power your mail through the postal service in the Far East.

10-stamp sheets of 80 Yen stamps are now available for pre-order in Japan, where gaming otakus will soon be able to adorn their snail mail with the likes of goombas, magic mushrooms, and mustachioed men. The set will be out next month.

Has the government of a country like the US ever done anything this official to honor one of the icons of gaming? Perhaps when we have avid gaming advocates in Congress -- or even, dare we say, in the White House -- things will look a little different with game legislation proposals and the postage of unwanted junk mail.

[Via GameBrink]

See also:

JoystiqHave Mario send your mail (via stamps from Japan) originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 Apr 2006 08:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>10-stamp sheet10-stamp sheets10-stampSheet10-stampSheets80 Yen80YenadvocateCongressFar EastFarEastgoombagoombasgovernmenticoniconsJapanjunk mailJunkMaillegislationmailMariomushroommushroomsmustachiomustachioedofficialotakuotakuspostagepostal servicePostalServicepre-ordersnail mailSnailMailstampstampsUSWhite HouseWhiteHouseTue, 04 Apr 2006 08:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Phil Harrison's media Q&A video from GDC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/03/phil-harrisons-media-qanda-video-from-gdc/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/03/phil-harrisons-media-qanda-video-from-gdc/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/03/phil-harrisons-media-qanda-video-from-gdc/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Can't get enough Phil Harrison in your life? Check out this video from the media Q&A following his GDC keynote for 20 minutes of Phil-y love (and maybe a few furtive glances from Kaz Hirai sitting in the background).

We just love how Phil "swerve[d] a couple of the questions" regarding the hard drive and other hardware-related issues, but we also like how he managed to clarify those questions regarding "content offerings" that will be charged at a "premium," though he did say that there were "no plans to charge for [multiplayer gaming] at the moment."

But, yeah, Mr. Harrison wasn't as combative in his answers as some media outlets portrayed him, which is another great step for platform executives who tend to make rather grandiose statements and fiery claims. If you want to see as well as hear the Phil handle all comers, this is one of your best chances yet. We'd love to hear it all clearly in English at E3, too.

[Thanks, Fan; video courtesy of Jean-Baptiste Su of Citizen Valley]

JoystiqPhil Harrison's media Q&A video from GDC originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 03 Apr 2006 16:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>combativecontent offeringsContentOfferingsE3EnglishexecutivesGDCGDC keynoteGdcKeynotehard driveHardDriveKaz HiraiKazHiraimultiplayerPhil HarrisonPhilHarrisonpremiumPS3swerveMon, 03 Apr 2006 16:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Phil Harrison's media Q&A video from GDC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/03/phil-harrisons-media-qanda-video-from-gdc/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/03/phil-harrisons-media-qanda-video-from-gdc/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/03/phil-harrisons-media-qanda-video-from-gdc/#commentsFiled under:


Can't get enough Phil Harrison in your life? Check out this video from the media Q&A following his GDC keynote for 20 minutes of Phil-y love (and maybe a few furtive glances from Kaz Hirai sitting in the background).

We just love how Phil "swerve[d] a couple of the questions" regarding the hard drive and other hardware-related issues, but we also like how he managed to clarify those questions regarding "content offerings" that will be charged at a "premium," though he did say that there were "no plans to charge for [multiplayer gaming] at the moment."

But, yeah, Mr. Harrison wasn't as combative in his answers as some media outlets portrayed him, which is another great step for platform executives who tend to make rather grandiose statements and fiery claims. If you want to see as well as hear the Phil handle all comers, this is one of your best chances yet. We'd love to hear it all clearly in English at E3, too.

[Thanks, Fan; video courtesy of Jean-Baptiste Su of Citizen Valley]

JoystiqPhil Harrison's media Q&A video from GDC originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 03 Apr 2006 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>combativecontent offeringsContentOfferingsE3EnglishexecutivesGDC keynoteGdcKeynotehard driveHardDriveKaz HiraiKazHiraimultiplayerPhil HarrisonPhilHarrisonpremiumswerveMon, 03 Apr 2006 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhawk, MotorStorm, & other bootleg GDC PS3 videos]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/02/warhawk-motorstorm-and-other-bootleg-gdc-ps3-videos/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/02/warhawk-motorstorm-and-other-bootleg-gdc-ps3-videos/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/02/warhawk-motorstorm-and-other-bootleg-gdc-ps3-videos/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


So, are you tired of bootleg stills from the upcoming PS3 titles featured at GDC? (Or bootleg videos from current-gen titles like God of War 2?) Well, it looks like you're in luck, as we've got a few fuzzy PS3 videos from Phil Harrison's speech, courtesy of the embargo-ignorin' folks at Multiplayer.it.

What we have above is a clip from the developer demo of Warhawk for the PS3. A voiceover describes the "ambient warfare" to be used in the air-combat simulation game, as well as the innovative mix of "Cell-based software rendering with RSX-based hardware rendering" to produce the graphics. For all you coders out there, it was also interesting to note that the programs running on the Cell's SPUs were not written in low-level assembly (easing development, but possibly degrading performance).

While we wait until E3, when a playable version of Warhawk was promised to be delivered, here are a few more PS3 videos from GDC that you might find interesting (with a few unfortunately quite incomplete):
[Thanks, Reaktorleak89, Fan, & Da'Cheez; via PS3 Fanboy & QJ.net]

See also:

JoystiqWarhawk, MotorStorm, & other bootleg GDC PS3 videos originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 02 Apr 2006 02:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>air-combatambient warfareAmbientWarfareassemblybootlegCellE3GDCGetaway 3Getaway3God of War 2GodOfWar2hardware renderingHardwareRenderingHavocHeavenly SwordHeavenlySwordLairMotorStormMultiplayer.itPhil HarrisonPhilHarrisonPS3RSXsoftware renderingSoftwareRenderingSPUsWarhawkSun, 02 Apr 2006 02:08:00 EST<![CDATA[More LEGO Star Wars II character details]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/01/more-lego-star-wars-ii-character-details/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/01/more-lego-star-wars-ii-character-details/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/01/more-lego-star-wars-ii-character-details/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

LEGO Star Wars II: Obi-Wan on Leia's Blockade RunnerThree new screenshots and a number of new playable character descriptions have been released for LEGO Star Wars II: The Original Trilogy... and Lucasarts has decided to share the LEGO love with us!

Excerpts detailing the new characters and their abilities follow after the jump, as do the three screenshots mentioned, which capture Chewie, Han, Leia, and even Obi-Wan doing his best non-canon work (as can be seen in the Free Play shot aboard the Blockade Runner featured here).

If you played through the original LEGO Star Wars on consoles or the PC, you'll be able to import its unlocked characters into the sequel, which should come in handy to begin General Grievous's training with Yoda. (More prequel characters = more sequel lightsabers.) And if you unlocked that secret (but short) bonus level--after completing all the mission requirements in the prequel--you know that you'll need to get your hands on the sequel. Anyone else lookin' forward to more LEGO action this fall?

[Thanks, Chris]

Continue reading More LEGO Star Wars II character details

JoystiqMore LEGO Star Wars II character details originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 01 Apr 2006 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActionDSFamilyGameCubeLegoLego-Star-WarsLego-Star-Wars-2Lego-Star-Wars-2-The-Original-TrilogyLucasartsMicrosoftNintendoPCPS2PSPTravellers-TalesTT-GamesXboxXbox-360Sat, 01 Apr 2006 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Final Fantasy XIII PS3 exclusive at E3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/31/rumor-final-fantasy-xiii-ps3-exclusive-at-e3/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/31/rumor-final-fantasy-xiii-ps3-exclusive-at-e3/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/31/rumor-final-fantasy-xiii-ps3-exclusive-at-e3/#commentsFiled under:

Ghetto FFXIII logoAccording to 1UP, the May issue of EGM contains a rumor that Final Fantasy XIII will be showing up at next month's E3 for "a brief teaser video and confirmation from [Square Enix] that the RPG will be a PS3 exclusive." RPG fans, rejoice!

What's a little shocking is that FFXIII would be unveiled before FFXII is even released outside Japan, but "rumblings" have apparently also been picked up that "Final Fantasy XIII is practically close to being finished" already. With all the delays to XII, it's certainly more than possible that a second team working on XIII's already got something to show by now.

It wasn't exactly surprising that FFXIII would show up as a PS3 exclusive--despite certain misquotes to the contrary--but you know that a new Final Fantasy is just what the next PlayStation needs (judging by how previews of FFX elevated the PS2's platform profile). Hopefully this little tidbit isn't EGM's way of stretching its April Fools' coverage to another issue (and another month).

[Thanks, Spatlase Disexia]

JoystiqRumor: Final Fantasy XIII PS3 exclusive at E3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 31 Mar 2006 08:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1UPApril FoolsAprilFoolsEGMexclusiveFFXIIFFXIIIFinal Fantasy XIIIFinalFantasyXiiiRPGrumorSquare EnixSquareEnixteaser videoTeaserVideoFri, 31 Mar 2006 08:50:00 EST<![CDATA[THQ Superstar Challenge in Chicago tonight [update 1]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/30/thq-superstar-challenge-in-chicago-tonight/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/30/thq-superstar-challenge-in-chicago-tonight/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/30/thq-superstar-challenge-in-chicago-tonight/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

WrestleMania 22 advert on the official WWE page for the event
WrestleMania 22 may still be 3 days away, but that isn't stopping WWE Superstars from taking to the virtual squared circle tonight in Chicago.

The fourth annual THQ Superstar Challenge will begin in less than an hour at 6 PM at the House of Blues. It'll be SmackDown vs. RAW on SmackDown vs. RAW with reigning Challenge champ Shelton Benjamin defending his gamer title in a 16-player bracket-style tournament.

If it's too late to snag $20 tickets to the opening WrestleMania weekend event, perhaps you can hang around until tomorrow, when THQ will "announce the next addition to the WWE video game family." Would a next-gen announcement be too much to hope for before E3? And will the Undertaker continue his undefeated WrestleMania streak? Answers to your manly soap opera questions will be coming at ya this weekend.

[Update: It turns out that the new game's already been confirmed--WWE SmackDown vs. RAW 2007 will hit the PS2, PSP, PS3, and even (a non-Sony system for once on) the Xbox 360. 10 "next-gen" screens of the game to hit later this year are also available via the Update link. Thanks, Master X 24!]

See also:

JoystiqTHQ Superstar Challenge in Chicago tonight [update 1] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Mar 2006 18:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>announcementChicagoHouse of BluesHouseOfBluesPS2Shelton BenjaminSheltonBenjaminSmackdown vs. RAWSmackdownVs.Rawsoap operaSoapOperasquared circleSquaredCircleSuperstar ChallengeSuperstarChallengeSuperstarsTHQticketstournamentundefeatedUndertakerweekendWrestleManiaWWEThu, 30 Mar 2006 18:28:00 EST<![CDATA[GameTap now $9.95/month; GameTap TV announced]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/29/gametap-now-9-95-month-gametap-tv-announced/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/29/gametap-now-9-95-month-gametap-tv-announced/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/29/gametap-now-9-95-month-gametap-tv-announced/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

...And then there's GameTap TVPC subscription gaming service GameTap has dropped its monthly fee from $14.95 to $9.95 and announced a GameTap TV expansion that will offer "a new broadband video streaming network" for games- and non-games-related programming.

The GameTap TV feature will include separate channels dedicated to music videos, network game previews, GT TV-exclusive content, and "even an animation channel set to go live this spring that will feature an original series of animated shorts."

We don't know where Space Ghost fits into all these broadband network plans, but we're sure that it can't be good. The cost-cutting measure by the TBS-owned venture are important in light of all the digital-download announcements made by the big console manufacturers recently, but it's hard to tell whether the $5 drop in monthly fees will greatly increase the number of current PC subscribers. Anyone gonna jump in on this?

See also:

JoystiqGameTap now $9.95/month; GameTap TV announced originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Mar 2006 23:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animationbroadband networkBroadbandNetworkcost-cuttingdigital downloadDigitalDownloadexclusive contentExclusiveContentGameTapGameTap TVGametapTvmonthly feeMonthlyFeemusic videosMusicVideosPCpreviewsSpace GhostSpaceGhostsubscriptionTBSWed, 29 Mar 2006 23:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Wars Galaxies coming to PS3, say Amazon and Buy.com]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/29/star-wars-galaxies-coming-to-ps3-say-amazon-and-buy-com/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/29/star-wars-galaxies-coming-to-ps3-say-amazon-and-buy-com/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/29/star-wars-galaxies-coming-to-ps3-say-amazon-and-buy-com/#commentsFiled under:

Paperback strategy guide product page of Star Wars Galaxies for consoles
If this product page for a Star Wars Galaxies strategy guide from Buy.com (and Amazon.com) are to be believed, then one could reasonably deduce that the troubled MMO will be making its way to the PS3 sometime soon.

The evidence? First, that parenthetical platform designation of "Console" for the strat guide. As Galaxies was cancelled for the PS2 a long, long time ago, and there would be no reason to order up a guide for a non-existing game, it would stand to reason that Sony's main MMO not named EverQuest would be seeing some action on the next generation system.

And next, that pre-order release date of 4/30/2006. There's a chance that means Prima and the major e-tailers you see here forgot to update their product pages to reflect the delayed PS3 launch (from spring to early November of this year). Either that or they're actually referencing the cancelled PS2 version with a random future date to avoid any responsibility for the thing. Sometimes you just gotta read between the lines.

[Thanks, David A.]

JoystiqStar Wars Galaxies coming to PS3, say Amazon and Buy.com originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Mar 2006 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AmazonBuy.comMMOPrimaPS2Star Wars GalaxiesStarWarsGalaxiesWed, 29 Mar 2006 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[HDMI issues at GDC? Or simply no cable?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/29/hdmi-issues-at-gdc-or-simply-no-cable/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/29/hdmi-issues-at-gdc-or-simply-no-cable/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/29/hdmi-issues-at-gdc-or-simply-no-cable/#commentsFiled under:

Rear view of a PS3 graphics demo unit
The PS3 dev kits on display at GDC apparently skipped the HDMI connection for some of their demos, casting doubt on how far along Sony's come with its hardware and digital standards compliance.

During GDC, Sony brought along a few PS3 demo units to show off audio and video, which TG Daily spied from a distance. As you can see above, the PS3 graphics demo unit used a standard AV Multi-Out connector while the "two HDMI ports right below the AV Multi-Out port were unused." TGD apparently offered to lend Sony officials an HDMI cable of their own to connect to the system, but they were turned down.

Of course, there's also a conflicting pic which Chris Grant took for us on Joystiq Central that seems to show that very HDMI connection being used, probably with another unit. (Scroll down to the second pic here to see it.) So what's the real story? Was Sony lacking enough updated HDMI 1.3 hardware and/or 1.3-compatible TVs to show off the HD goods, or were they simply short on cables? Maybe their budget was a bit tight for GDC (what with Phil's focused keynote and abundance of GDC sessions from Sony), so hopefully we'll see everything hooked up nice and tidy for E3.

[Thanks, Michael, Racky, pheen, and DocEvil; via TechSpot and CD Freaks]

JoystiqHDMI issues at GDC? Or simply no cable? originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Mar 2006 12:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AV Multi-OutAvMulti-outcableChris GrantChrisGrantcompliancedemosdev kitsDevKitsE3GDCHDMIJoystiq CentralJoystiqCentralkeynoteportssessionsstandardsTG DailyTgDailyWed, 29 Mar 2006 12:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Welcome, one and all, to PS3 Fanboy!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/29/welcome-one-and-all-to-ps3-fanboy/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/29/welcome-one-and-all-to-ps3-fanboy/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/29/welcome-one-and-all-to-ps3-fanboy/#commentsFiled under:

A silver PlayStation 3 pictured with its prototype controllerWhether you're here because you saw the related post on Joystiq Central or because a link was flashed elsewhere online, we wish to warmly welcome you to PS3 Fanboy, the site that loves Sony's next console with all its heart (even if it ends up with that batarang prototype as a controller).

For a few more details on the wild 'n' crazy guys responsible for bringing this site to you, check out our unofficial welcome post with its shameless bios and boastful claims.

We couldn't be happier to join the Joystiq family of fanboy blogs (especially our dearest brother Gizmondo Fanboy), and we certainly hope you enjoy your stay here. Just six weeks till the E3 overload... are you all ready yet?

JoystiqWelcome, one and all, to PS3 Fanboy! originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Mar 2006 02:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batarangbiosblogsE3GizmondoJoystiqPS3 FanboyPs3Fanboywelcomewild 'n' crazy guysWild'n'CrazyGuysWed, 29 Mar 2006 02:54:00 EST<![CDATA[RedOctane CEO: More music games coming]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/28/redoctane-ceo-more-music-games-coming/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/28/redoctane-ceo-more-music-games-coming/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/28/redoctane-ceo-more-music-games-coming/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

RedOctane CEO Kelly SumnerIn an interview with GamesIndustry.biz, RedOctane CEO Kelly Sumner revealed that the company's "got other products in development" in the music genre.

The former Take Two Interactive Europe CEO's statement that he "can't tell you what [these other products] are and when they're coming" would lead us to believe he's not talking about the Guitar Hero sequels (sorta like song expansion packs) already announced.

A rhythm line-up to rival Konami's Bemani brand, perhaps? This blogger would love something to take advantage of the RedOctane drum peripherals created for Namco's Taiko Drum Master, and it wouldn't be too hard for Harmonix to work up a karaoke game considering their work on Karaoke Revolution (unless licensing prevents it). Whatever the case, fans of music gaming would love to see what Sumner's got up his sleeve.

[Thanks, murph]

See also:

JoystiqRedOctane CEO: More music games coming originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 28 Mar 2006 23:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BemaniCEOdrumexpansion packsExpansionPacksGuitar HeroGuitarHeroHarmonixkaraokeKelly SumnerKellySumnerKonamimusicNamcoother products in developmentOtherProductsInDevelopmentperipheralsPS2RedOctaneRevolutionTaiko Drum MasterTaikoDrumMasterTake Two Interactive EuropeTakeTwoInteractiveEuropeTue, 28 Mar 2006 23:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Call of Duty joining the Revolution]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/28/rumor-call-of-duty-joining-the-revolution/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/28/rumor-call-of-duty-joining-the-revolution/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/28/rumor-call-of-duty-joining-the-revolution/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Call of Duty: Finest Hour... with the Rev-mote in playA GotNext "spy pirate" has learned that Call of Duty will be making a stop on the Nintendo Revolution.

If it's true that the unnamed next-gen iteration of the series will be "a launch or 'launch window' title," then CoD should be the first third-party FPS to use the Revmote.

Exakt Entertainment will reportedly handle the Revolution edition for Nintendo, which would make sense as they ported Call of Duty: Finest Hour for the GameCube. Rumors of launch titles should be fallin' aplenty in the weeks leading up to E3, so keep your eyes and ears open, people. Also beware of premature April Fools' Day pranks. ("Spy pirate"?)

[Thanks, Freddy Q; via 1UP]

See also:

JoystiqRumor: Call of Duty joining the Revolution originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 28 Mar 2006 22:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>April Fools' DayAprilFools'DayCall of DutyCallOfDutyE3Exakt EntertainmentExaktEntertainmentFinest HourFinestHourGameCubeGotNextlaunchPCPS2PS3Revmoterumorspy pirateSpyPiratethird-partyWiiXboxXbox-360Tue, 28 Mar 2006 22:45:00 EST