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[Joystiq Holidaze: Gaming Hots and Nots]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/23/joystiq-holidaze-gaming-hots-and-nots/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/23/joystiq-holidaze-gaming-hots-and-nots/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/23/joystiq-holidaze-gaming-hots-and-nots/#commentsFiled under:

On The O.C. the characters celebrated Chrismukkah. Virgin Mobile dubbed it Christmahanakwanzakah. We here at the 'stiq, because of our extreme desire to be politically correct, and at the same time share our pessimism, know it as the "Holidaze." That's right, with Black Friday (a holiday in its own right to certain groups) officially here, and soccer moms, Boy Scouts, and career shoppers getting ready to fall back on their most basic animal instincts -- fighting over doorbuster deals as if it was Prostitute v. Prostitute for custody of a baby as presided over by King Solomon -- we can't help feeling that we needed to do something. And here we are -- Joystiq's Holidaze: Gaming Hots and Nots 2007.

By no means do we consider this guide a definitive source for your holiday shopping. Some people still need boxers, pencils, dress shirts, and notepads this holiday. This guide, unfortunately for those individuals, focuses solely on the games we think, after some heated discussions in our email thread, should make even the Ebenezers on your list as giddy as Tiny Tim. Well, what are you waiting for, friends? Hit the break, and know our list better, man! (And woman.)

Continue reading Joystiq Holidaze: Gaming Hots and Nots

JoystiqJoystiq Holidaze: Gaming Hots and Nots originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 Nov 2007 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>holidashholidazeFri, 23 Nov 2007 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Stop flubbing lines, learn Rock Band's lyrics]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/20/stop-flubbing-lines-learn-rock-bands-lyrics/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/20/stop-flubbing-lines-learn-rock-bands-lyrics/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/20/stop-flubbing-lines-learn-rock-bands-lyrics/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Look, forgetting the lines of a song mid-show is only allowed in one of two instances. One: You, and the boys (or girls) drank Patron pre-show thinking just because the stuff was clear it was as non-alcoholic as water. Two: There is no other excuse. It's a lack of professionalism, an adherence to the creed and code of rock and roll that'll separate you from the other local dive bar bands on your way to gold plated records, "phat" cribs, and a VH1 "Behind the Music" special.

Because you might not be familiar with all the songs in Harmonix's Rock Band, we decided to take care of you, loyal readers. Beneath the break, we've linked the lyrics for the vast majority of the game's set list, minus some of the bonus songs. Well, what are you waiting for? Start learning those lyrics and paving your pathway to success.

Continue reading Stop flubbing lines, learn Rock Band's lyrics

JoystiqStop flubbing lines, learn Rock Band's lyrics originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Nov 2007 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EAElectronic-ArtsHarmonixMTVPS3Rock BandRockBandXbox-360Tue, 20 Nov 2007 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview: Rock Band (PlayStation 3, Xbox 360)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/19/metareview-rock-band-playstation-3-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/19/metareview-rock-band-playstation-3-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/19/metareview-rock-band-playstation-3-xbox-360/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Okay, ladies, time to get the spandex, tune those guitars, and get ready to melt faces -- it's Rock Band Eve, which is Christmas Eve with more metal and glitter. Tomorrow we celebrate the day when, unto us, a game will be delivered, and with it the promise of salvation from being forced to play Guitar Hero III by ourselves ... late at night ... in our boxers.

There's been plenty hullabaloo surrounding the launch of Harmonix's Rock Band, and be certain to check back tonight (11/19/2007) for our liveblogging of the launch. But what about the actual game? Is it the death nail in Guitar Hero's coffin, or does the overly ambitious Rock Band need to take some things to heart for their inevitable sophomore effort? The Metareview, as always, contains the answers you seek, dudes and dudettes.
  • OXM (95/100): "Rock Band is the ultimate role-playing game - the only way to win is to completely commit as a guitarist, bassist, drummer, or singer and do your part for the fellowship of meta-musicians sharing the virtual stage. And if you can lower your shield of shyness to let the game in, you're richly rewarded as the collective joy of making music pours back out. Unlike other games, the Rock Band payoff isn't visceral or technical; it's emotional."
  • IGN (94/100): "Metallica, The Ramones, The Rolling Stones -- these are some of the legendary bands in rock. And now, thanks to Harmonix's Rock Band, you and your friends can join the legendary pantheon of rock gods. The latest game from Harmonix ups the ante on other music titles by combining guitars, drums, and singing into one awesome package. You and your friends will rock out with some of the greatest bands in history. And Fall Out Boy. While Rock Band doesn't offer the insanely intense (and perhaps impossible) challenge of Guitar Hero III, it's a game that everyone will have fun playing. This may just be among the best party games ever released."
  • 1UP (90/100): "Its critical appraisal isn't easy; music is culturally ingrained in us, and as a tool, a relatively inexpensive gateway for people to come together and experience it together, Rock Band easily delivers on what it promises. Actually feeling like a rock star -- for most people under 40, the next best thing to a superhero or a T-Rex -- is transcendently entertaining. Guitar Hero is still the way to go for lone wolves, but if you have the space, the manpower, and the means, Rock Band unquestionably, unequivocally rocks."

JoystiqMetareview: Rock Band (PlayStation 3, Xbox 360) originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Nov 2007 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EAElectronic-ArtsHarmonixmetareviewMTV GamesMtvGamesPS3Rock BandRockBandXbox-360Mon, 19 Nov 2007 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview: Mass Effect (Xbox 360)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/19/metareview-mass-effect-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/19/metareview-mass-effect-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/19/metareview-mass-effect-xbox-360/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Sure, some of you lucky bastards readers already plopped a whole heap of time into Mass Effect thanks to K-Mart's inability to, you know, read. Others of us, however, don't get to play "Jack Bauer in Space" until tomorrow. Yeah, that's right, we're jealous individuals (sans those on staff who took advantage of the "blue light special") who know that Bioware determines its release schedule with a formula more complex than how the NFL calculates a QB's passer rating.

We here at Joystiq are all primed and ready to save the universe, use our Force special powers on enemy combatants, knock boots with some genderless aliens, and finally move past Jade Empire. However, maybe you're not convinced as we are -- that's okay because the Metareview is here to help.
  • GameSpy (100/100): "Mass Effect's greatest strength is the quality of the narrative. BioWare has a track record of producing amazingly engrossing storylines, but never before have you been presented with this level of meaningful interaction. You'll experience difficult and thought-provoking situations, including moral and ethical questions without a clear right or wrong answer. The Commander Shepard character is thus defined by player involvement, sublimely capturing the essence of role-playing."
  • IGN (94/100): "Mass Effect is game that is greater than the sum of its parts. Technical issues abound, but the majority of Mass Effect is so expertly delivered that it can transcend its weaknesses. Applying number ratings to a game like this doesn't do it justice because there is no way you can ignore its technical flaws. Simply put, Mass Effect is a game that must be played. Then it must be played again. Don't pass this one up."
  • Eurogamer (80/100): "Forced to stumble towards a conclusion, I'd say that despite the niggles, Mass Effect is most definitely a great game with an awful lot going for it - but one that doesn't quite deserve unquestioning praise. For what it achieves in delivering a compelling narrative and wonderful atmosphere, BioWare deserves a huge amount of credit, as there are few games that come anywhere near it in this regard. The dialogue system, and the impact it has on individual missions and the game as a whole is exceptional, adding greatly to the potential replay value. Where it doesn't quite hit the mark for me is in the action stakes. Although it underpins the game with all sorts of excellent ideas that ought to make it a deeper, more intelligent and immersive experience, the simple truth is that the minute-to-minute combat simply isn't as intense and involving as you'd expect from a game in 2007. Throw in some grumbles about the somewhat unoptimised state of the frame-rate, texture pop-in and v-syncing terrors, and it's a game that just falls short of our expectations. An eight, then, but a good one..."

JoystiqMetareview: Mass Effect (Xbox 360) originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Nov 2007 14:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BiowareEAElectronic-ArtsMass EffectMassEffectmetareviewMicrosoftXbox-360Mon, 19 Nov 2007 14:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Get out of Zebes! Prime Samus Aran cosplay]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/19/get-out-of-zebes-prime-samus-aran-cosplay/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/19/get-out-of-zebes-prime-samus-aran-cosplay/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/19/get-out-of-zebes-prime-samus-aran-cosplay/#commentsFiled under: , ,


It's not often you'll find us complimenting the quality of an individual's cosplay, so when we do it's sort of a big deal. Not "I just won the lottery" big, but more "Sweet, the vending machine gave me two sodas for the price of one" big. Anyway, you get the picture.

Jenni, playing the part of Metroid's Samus Aran, captures the essence of the character thanks to a fairly accurate costume, and fantastic setting. The complete set features 15 different photos, and outside of the shots where she dons the helmet, they're really worthy of praise. Keep up the good work, Jenni!

[Thanks, Jesse.]

JoystiqGet out of Zebes! Prime Samus Aran cosplay originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Nov 2007 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cosplayMetroidNintendoSamusWiiMon, 19 Nov 2007 10:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Penny Arcade doles out criticism of Assassin's Creed criticism]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/15/penny-arcade-doles-out-criticism-of-assassins-creed-criticism/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/15/penny-arcade-doles-out-criticism-of-assassins-creed-criticism/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/15/penny-arcade-doles-out-criticism-of-assassins-creed-criticism/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Plenty of review outlets have given Ubisoft's Assassin's Creed extremely favorable scores -- GamePro, GameSpot, GameTrailers, and Game Informer all scored the game at 90/100 or better. However, certain outlets found the game less appealing, and judged it as a 70/100 -- 1UP, EuroGamer, and GameSpy -- and Penny-Arcade's Gabe isn't buying what they're selling.

"If Assassin's Creed actually was a 7.0 game I'd tell you," said Gabe in Wednesday's news post. "I also want you to know that when I tell you it's fucking incredible I'm not bullshitting you because we're running ads for the game." He then goes on to comment specifically on the complaints he's read in various reviews:

Continue reading Penny Arcade doles out criticism of Assassin's Creed criticism

JoystiqPenny Arcade doles out criticism of Assassin's Creed criticism originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Nov 2007 23:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AssassinsCreedGabePenny-ArcadePS3score dramaScoreDramaUbisoftXbox-360Thu, 15 Nov 2007 23:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Rock Band DLC priced! Cheaper than Guitar Hero's, more choice]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/14/rock-band-dlc-priced-cheaper-than-guitar-heros-offers-choice/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/14/rock-band-dlc-priced-cheaper-than-guitar-heros-offers-choice/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/14/rock-band-dlc-priced-cheaper-than-guitar-heros-offers-choice/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Y'know what? Usage of Robin's "Holy (noun), Batman!" catch phrase often marks any given blog post as pedestrian but ... what the hell. Holy Rock Band downloadable content prices, Batman! We visited Harmonix earlier today, but "mum" was the word regarding DLC pricing, but now we know why ... because they love GameSpot a little bit more than us.

Harmonix revealed that instead of charging 500 Microsoft Points ($6.25) for a three song pack as Activision does with Guitar Hero III, they would be releasing the packs for 440 Microsoft Points ($5.49) with -- and here's the kicker -- the option to download individual songs without purchasing the entire pack. Single track pricing starts as low as 80 Microsoft Points ($0.99) and can go as high as 240 Microsoft Points ($2.99), but the "vast majority" will be priced at 159 Microsoft Points ($1.99).

Some of the standout singles planned for release include Weezer's "Buddy Holly," The Clash's "I Fought The Law," and Radiohead's "My Iron Lung." For a full breakdown of the first five weeks of planned DLC for Rock Band, hit the break. Commence dancing in the streets elsewhere (or in the comments).

Continue reading Rock Band DLC priced! Cheaper than Guitar Hero's, more choice

JoystiqRock Band DLC priced! Cheaper than Guitar Hero's, more choice originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Nov 2007 22:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BreakingNewsdlcEAElectronic-ArtsHarmonixMTVPS3Rock-BandRockBandXbox-360Wed, 14 Nov 2007 22:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview: Uncharted: Drake's Fortune (PS3)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/14/metareview-uncharted-drakes-fortune-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/14/metareview-uncharted-drakes-fortune-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/14/metareview-uncharted-drakes-fortune-ps3/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Don't be glum, PlayStation 3 owners! Sure, your console of choice can't play Super Mario Galaxy, but it's going to be receiving DivX support in the hopefully near future. Oh, wait, you bought it to play games? Well, that's been a problem for a while, but it seems that Naughty Dog's latest offering, Uncharted: Drake's Fortune, might be the perfect cure for what ails you.

Part Tomb Raider, part Gears of War, and all pretty, this game certainly looks great, but what about the entire package? Are we witnessing the birth of the next great video game series? The Metareview contains these answers, and more.

Continue reading Metareview: Uncharted: Drake's Fortune (PS3)

JoystiqMetareview: Uncharted: Drake's Fortune (PS3) originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Nov 2007 20:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>MetareviewNaughty-DogPS3SCESonySony-Computer-EntertainmentUnchartedUncharted-Drakes-FortuneWed, 14 Nov 2007 20:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview: Crysis (PC)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/13/metareview-crysis-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/13/metareview-crysis-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/13/metareview-crysis-pc/#commentsFiled under: , ,


For months and months, all the PC fanboys have gotten their jollies by pointing out to the irrelevance of consoles by lauding the release of Crysis. There have been plenty smug statements of superiority reveling in the fact they've had to take out a second mortgage just to afford a damn graphics card to play the 'effing game (some viewing it as a bloody red badge of courage -- and not what it really is -- sheer stupidity). Because of all this noise, it's been had to pay attention to the game's actual merits. But, it finally releases this week, so the time has come to don paper bags to obscure our faces as console owners from the blinding awesomeness that is Christ-is Crysis, right?
  • GameTap (100/100): "Ultimately, even with the sudden change in design style, and some minor quibbles (suit power, technical horsepower required for the best visuals), Crysis remains a landmark shooter. Yes, it's aggravating that the flat-out brilliance of the early early levels isn't sustained, but even still, the most that change did for me was to turn Crysis from a 'so f---ing awesome game' to a mere 'awesome game.'"
  • Eurogamer (90/100): "This is a game that feels supremely engineered, like a precision machine, or a German automobile. It's makes Half-Life 2 seem old and frail, but by the same token it does nothing to diminish the imaginative achievements of that series. Crysis is impressive, but not imaginatively bold. Nor does it engage us like some other great shooters -- such as BioShock -- have done with their world and their personality. It's far better than Far Cry, and it's clearly going to create a rabid army of fans, many of whom I hope will plug themselves into the absurdly easy-to-us level editor and create us more single-player campaigns. Personally I'd like to see where this astounding world-forging technology will take us. And I can't wait to see what Crytek will do next."
  • 1UP (80/100): "And on it goes. Stints in motorized air-defense systems ... that don't move. Low altitude flight in a leaden VTOL, where defeating drones dissolves invisible barriers no one intends to notice, allowing us to fly forward, fight off another three drones, dissolve another invisible barrier, fly forward ... Fast forward through scraps of miserable story and melodramatic dialogue, along with a 'boss battle' inherited from the coin-op class of '88 (see: Contra), and the ordeal is done -- beautiful throughout, mostly amazing, but vegetative by the end."

JoystiqMetareview: Crysis (PC) originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Nov 2007 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CrysisCrytekFPSmetareviewPCTue, 13 Nov 2007 16:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Midnight launch for Rock Band keeps Best Buys open late]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/13/midnight-launch-for-rock-band-keeps-best-buys-open-late/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/13/midnight-launch-for-rock-band-keeps-best-buys-open-late/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/13/midnight-launch-for-rock-band-keeps-best-buys-open-late/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


We've already traveled to the land of blue, bleak, and reek to check out Rock Band, so with the in-store buzz definitely there, we had to think a midnight launch would be coming -- and it is. 75 locations in 32 states open their doors at midnight to arm you with your "rocksenal," which is actually more than were participating in the Guitar Hero III launch.

So if you're worried about potentially securing a copy (thanks to EA's boast of confidence regarding their stock), this might be a possible solution for you. And after all that sweet unannounced, but coming DLC spied from the pages of OXM, how is anyone with a pulse not excited? Full listing of stores participating rest behind the break.

Continue reading Midnight launch for Rock Band keeps Best Buys open late

JoystiqMidnight launch for Rock Band keeps Best Buys open late originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Nov 2007 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BestBuyEAElectronic-ArtsHarmonixMidnightLaunchMTVGamesPS3Rock-BandRockBandXbox-360Tue, 13 Nov 2007 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview: Assassin's Creed (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/13/metareview-assassins-creed-xbox-360-playstation-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/13/metareview-assassins-creed-xbox-360-playstation-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/13/metareview-assassins-creed-xbox-360-playstation-3/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Sometimes, we almost wonder if gamers really wanted Assassin's Creed to actually make it onto shelves. Not that they don't want to play the game per se, but because they seem so gosh darn infatuated with that pretty Miss Jade Raymond that they couldn't bear to go a couple years without playing another game produced by her. End run on sentence.

Why? Because that equates to a decrease from the googolplex of daily postings and interviews on her game, her wardrobe choices, and thanks to some blogs, comments on the same parts one of hundreds of thousands of other women you've seen in your life has she's equipped with. (If I see stat modification comments in this post I swear to some higher power the outcome -- for you -- will not be pretty.)

Continue reading Metareview: Assassin's Creed (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3)

JoystiqMetareview: Assassin's Creed (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3) originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Nov 2007 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Assassins-CreedAssassinscreedjaderaymondmetareviewMicrosoftPS3UbisoftUbisoft-MontrealXbox-360Tue, 13 Nov 2007 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect love scene now less safe for work [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/12/mass-effect-love-scene-now-less-safe-for-work/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/12/mass-effect-love-scene-now-less-safe-for-work/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/12/mass-effect-love-scene-now-less-safe-for-work/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Update: Microsoft has asked GameVideos to yank the video. Peepshow's over, folks!

WARNING: Unlike the sex scene we linked last week, this one can be described as "not safe for work," "not work safe," "NSFW," "NWS," and "not safe to play around female spouse." Any potential job loss, spouse loss, or sleeping on the couch that you incur from watching this video lies solely on your shoulders. That said, there isn't any Asari nipple to be seen in the video, so this is an FX level skin drama at best.

Said video, containing some (female) Commander Shepherd on Asari action beneath the break. Yeah, we tease like that.

Continue reading Mass Effect love scene now less safe for work [update]

JoystiqMass Effect love scene now less safe for work [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Nov 2007 12:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BiowareboobiesEAElectronic-ArtsMass EffectMassEffectXbox-360Mon, 12 Nov 2007 12:25:00 EST<![CDATA[New 'No More Heroes' spots show off coconut, garbage collecting]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/09/new-no-more-heroes-spots-show-off-coconut-garabage-collecting/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/09/new-no-more-heroes-spots-show-off-coconut-garabage-collecting/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/09/new-no-more-heroes-spots-show-off-coconut-garabage-collecting/#commentsFiled under: ,


Good times come February, friends. By then we'll have officially given up on our New Year's Resolutions, making way for more decadent, artery-clogging food, and Goichi Suda's bizarre, frightening No More Heroes will be hitting US shelves. No More Heroes releases on December 6th in Japan, and leading up to the launch the official site has been updated with a bevy of new videos.

The two highlighted here show the lead, Travis Touchdown, the most awesomely named character in any fictional construct to date, collecting the mundane -- garbage and coconuts. Who said being an assassin was all blood and body bags? Hit the jump for the second video.

Continue reading New 'No More Heroes' spots show off coconut, garbage collecting

JoystiqNew 'No More Heroes' spots show off coconut, garbage collecting originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 Nov 2007 15:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>No More HeroesNoMoreHeroespunk gamingSudaUbisoftWiiFri, 09 Nov 2007 15:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Nominees for Spike TV's 'Video Game Awards 2007' revealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/09/nominees-for-spike-tvs-video-game-awards-2007-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/09/nominees-for-spike-tvs-video-game-awards-2007-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/09/nominees-for-spike-tvs-video-game-awards-2007-revealed/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,


Time to get those office pools started up, boy and girls! What? No, the Oscars aren't till February 2008, morons. We're talking about the 2007 Spike TV Video Game Awards. Or, to those that know it best, the VGAs. The nominees were announced today and its time to ... wait, wait -- don't run away just yet. This year, the advisory board is made up of plenty of people whose opinions you read in magazines, on larger websites, and even some blogs. Even our esteemed EIC, Chris Grant, makes up this veritable group of "Super Friends" (he's their Wonder Woman).

Unlike in previous years, Madden is not nominated for "Game of the Year," so already you know it's more credible. BioShock, Mass Effect, Super Mario Galaxy, and Halo 3 appear on the list, making up the usual suspects that'll be appearing on many an outlet's GOTY ballots, but some more unexpected titles might be crashing the party -- Shin Megami Tensei: Persona 3, Puzzle Quest: Challenge the Warlords, and Portal. One question though: why remove the Best Song category the one year there's a video game song worth celebrating?

For a full list of the nominees, would you kindly peer past the break?

Continue reading Nominees for Spike TV's 'Video Game Awards 2007' revealed

JoystiqNominees for Spike TV's 'Video Game Awards 2007' revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 Nov 2007 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>awardsDSGOTYPCPS2PS3PSPSpikeSpike-VGA-2007televisionWiiXbox-360Fri, 09 Nov 2007 11:29:00 EST<![CDATA[New Burnout trailer welcomes us to 'Paradise']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/09/new-burnout-trailer-welcomes-us-to-paradise/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/09/new-burnout-trailer-welcomes-us-to-paradise/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/09/new-burnout-trailer-welcomes-us-to-paradise/#commentsFiled under: , ,

While Burnout Paradise isn't appearing on shelves until January 22, 2008, that doesn't mean we aren't already planning on taking a "sick day" from the 'stiq (cover blown!) to enjoy this vehicular destruction porn without interruption. The "Welcome to Paradise City" trailer offers us a look at the city, which is all available right from the start (know as "Freeburn").

That didn't fill up your tank? Why, then check out our hands-on impressions to satisfy your need for speed. Come on, turn those keys and drive.

JoystiqNew Burnout trailer welcomes us to 'Paradise' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 Nov 2007 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Burnout-ParadiseBurnoutParadiseCriterionEAElectronic-ArtsPS3Xbox-360Fri, 09 Nov 2007 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Liveblogging: South Park 'Guitar Queer-o']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/07/liveblogging-south-park-guitar-queer-o/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/07/liveblogging-south-park-guitar-queer-o/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/07/liveblogging-south-park-guitar-queer-o/#commentsFiled under:


Come one, come all! Boys and girls, children of all ages, and feast your eyes on this spectacle -- a rare performance by the insufferable duo of Mr. Kyle Orland and Mr. Dan Dormer. Tonight, we'll be live blogging a piece of gaming culture -- the fusion of Guitar Hero with Comedy Central's South Park. Hit the jump, and keep refreshing to witness all the action.

Continue reading Liveblogging: South Park 'Guitar Queer-o'

JoystiqLiveblogging: South Park 'Guitar Queer-o' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Nov 2007 21:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActivisioncomedyGuitarHeroRed-OctaneSouth ParkWed, 07 Nov 2007 21:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Bid for a role in Fable 2 at Child's Play dinner auction]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/07/bid-for-a-role-in-fable-2-at-the-childs-play-dinner-auction/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/07/bid-for-a-role-in-fable-2-at-the-childs-play-dinner-auction/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/07/bid-for-a-role-in-fable-2-at-the-childs-play-dinner-auction/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Sure, it's tough to break into video games, but what about actually being a digital, non-breathing, non-playable character part of a virtual world? Unless you're a celebrity, such as Kristen Bell, or an athlete like, uh ... Slash, average humans like us have little or no chance to ever be "Annoying Quest Giver #72" or "Dude I Jacked for Bonus Gold #19." However, there's still hope, thanks to Lionhead Studios and the Child's Play Charity.

At the Child's Play's Fundraiser Dinner Auction, Lionhead Studios will auction off, amongst other things, naming rights for five NPCs in their upcoming title, Fable 2. You could be a shopkeeper, farmer, "important" villager, monk, or quest giver, depending on if you can part with the necessary coinage (think of the children!). And while Joystiq writers can't accept bribes, if you wanted to use your winning bid to name a character in Fable 2 "Dan Dormer," I, errr, we wouldn't mind in the slightest. Now, would you kindly make that happen?

JoystiqBid for a role in Fable 2 at Child's Play dinner auction originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Nov 2007 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActionChild's-PlayChild'sPlayFable2LionheadLionhead-StudiosMGSMicrosoft-Game-StudiosMolyneuxRPGXbox-360Wed, 07 Nov 2007 17:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft promotes parental oversight in gaming with Jerry Rice, PTA]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/07/microsoft-promotes-parental-oversight-in-gaming-with-jerry-rice/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/07/microsoft-promotes-parental-oversight-in-gaming-with-jerry-rice/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/07/microsoft-promotes-parental-oversight-in-gaming-with-jerry-rice/#commentsFiled under: ,


Along with the Xbox 360 family timer announced today, Microsoft has kicked off the second year of their "Safety is no game. Is your family set?" campaign. They're also releasing PACT, a contract being distributed to Parent Teacher Association members nationwide. PACT is an abbreviation that isn't so brief: "Parental involvement; the amount of Access children can have, including who they are allowed to play and interact with online; the types of Content children are allowed to play or watch; and the amount of Time children can use media." Spare a thought to the parents yelling "Turn that damn thing off, Dan!"

Joining Microsoft in this crusade are two allies, one likely, the other not so much. The PTA and Jerry Rice lent their support to Microsoft's "Safety ... Set?" campaign, all lauding praise on one another at Stuart-Hobson Middle School in Washington, D.C., today. Rice stated "it's so rewarding to join Microsoft and the PTA today to promote a healthy balance for our kids in this exciting digital age." Oh, get a room.

JoystiqMicrosoft promotes parental oversight in gaming with Jerry Rice, PTA originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Nov 2007 14:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>MicrosoftparentaltimerXbox-360Wed, 07 Nov 2007 14:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Kristen Bell gets digitized for Assassin's Creed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/07/kristen-bell-gets-digitized-for-assassins-creed/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/07/kristen-bell-gets-digitized-for-assassins-creed/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/07/kristen-bell-gets-digitized-for-assassins-creed/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We'll admit it -- we're fans of Ms. Bell, from the spunky, spitfire junior private eye she played in Veronica Mars to the unseen, but ever present blogger in Gossip Girl, and even the lead in the god-awful Pulse. So, naturally, when she let it slip last December that she was contributing to Assassin's Creed, our hype meter exploded under the pressure.

Now, giving us a little taste, Ubisoft released the first image of what Kristen Bell looks like in the game. Despite a less than flattering hair style, the actual rendering looks extremely similar. Speaking about Kristen Bell, producer Jade Raymond stated she "is a remarkable actress who was able to bring her character to life in a dynamic way that I don't think anyone else could have done properly." We'd still prefer some QT with the less creepy Bell any day of the week, though.

JoystiqKristen Bell gets digitized for Assassin's Creed originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Nov 2007 12:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Assassins-CreedAssassinsCreedKristen-BellMicrosoftPS3UbisoftUbisoft-MontrealXbox-360Wed, 07 Nov 2007 12:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Rock Band impressions ... from a Best Buy kiosk]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/05/rock-band-impressions-from-a-best-buy-kiosk/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/05/rock-band-impressions-from-a-best-buy-kiosk/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/05/rock-band-impressions-from-a-best-buy-kiosk/#commentsFiled under: ,


When we heard of the existence of a Rock Band demo station at Best Buy locations throughout the country, we knew what had to be done: find the station, rock out in torn Posion tees and acid wash jeans while refusing to give toddlers a turn, have management escort us off the premises, and report back.

We've taken care of the previous steps (who knew 50-year-old Gladys would have a gorilla grip), and now it's time for us to drop a knowledge bomb on all y'all. Here it is: Rock Band rocks.

Continue reading Rock Band impressions ... from a Best Buy kiosk

JoystiqRock Band impressions ... from a Best Buy kiosk originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Nov 2007 13:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EAElectronic-ArtsHarmonixMTVRock BandRockBandXbox-360Mon, 05 Nov 2007 13:55:00 EST<![CDATA[More of Rock Band's bonus tracks unveiled]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/05/more-of-rock-bands-bonus-tracks-unveiled/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/05/more-of-rock-bands-bonus-tracks-unveiled/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/05/more-of-rock-bands-bonus-tracks-unveiled/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


We already knew 45 out of Rock Band's 58 tracks, but a keen pair of eyes uncovered seven more previously unannounced songs in 1UP's video preview (also part of last Friday's 1UP show). Whoops! However, this isn't a flagrant foul or some intentional penalty, but most likely just an oversight that ends up benefiting us -- the gamers!

The song list shows up at 1:27, and shows the songs categorized by difficulty. Here's the seven "new to us" tracks, which brings the number of known songs up to 52:

Apprentice
The Konks' "29 Fingers"
Vagiant's "Seven"

Solid Songs
Flyleaf's "I'm So Sick"
The Mother Hips' "Time We Had"

Moderate Songs
Anarchy Club's "Blood Doll"
The Acro-Brat's "Day Late, Dollar Short"
Crooked X's "Nightmare"

So, want to let us know the last six, Harmonix? We'll be your best friends in the whole wide world -- promise!

EDIT: Another Joystiq reader tipped us off to a blog posting by the band Honest Bob and the Factory-to-Dealer Incentives stating their song, "I Get By," is in Rock Band. Only five left now!

[Thanks, Brian and Andy]

JoystiqMore of Rock Band's bonus tracks unveiled originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Nov 2007 09:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EAElectronic-ArtsHarmonixMTVPS2PS3Rock-BandRockBandXbox-360Mon, 05 Nov 2007 09:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Metal Gear Solid 4 delay causes Konami stock price to fall]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/01/metal-gear-solid-4-delay-causes-konami-stock-price-to-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/01/metal-gear-solid-4-delay-causes-konami-stock-price-to-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/01/metal-gear-solid-4-delay-causes-konami-stock-price-to-fall/#commentsFiled under:


We know the news of Metal Gear Solid 4's delay has you down. Hell, you should see the bar tab we rung up after the announcement. Although we'd like to believe we're the most important people to be affected by it, that simply isn't the case. Konami's investors definitely take the cake this time, as they witnessed the company's shares fall 6.8% today, their biggest drop in four years.

You'd have to go back to a year when people still remotely cared about The Matrix Trilogy (2003) to find as large a drop for Konami. According to an analyst Bloomberg spoke with, investors "were active sellers today because of disappointment over the delay." On the bright side, at least spurned gamers aren't liquidating their pre-order portfolio.

JoystiqMetal Gear Solid 4 delay causes Konami stock price to fall originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 01 Nov 2007 12:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>investingKonamiMetal Gear Solid 4MetalGearSolid4PS3Thu, 01 Nov 2007 12:08:00 EST<![CDATA[1UP editor pokes fun at GamesRadar 'copying' features]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/31/1up-editor-pokes-fun-at-gamesradar-copying-features/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/31/1up-editor-pokes-fun-at-gamesradar-copying-features/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/31/1up-editor-pokes-fun-at-gamesradar-copying-features/#commentsFiled under:


Back in March, GamesRadar, believing in a Louis XIV fashion that heavenly bodies orbit around them and not visa-versa, accused IGN of stealing their ideas (for the second time) in a story entitled "IGN: officially out of ideas? PART 2: Are they really just copying us, again?" It seems, however, this was a case of the pot calling the kettle black as Scott Sharkey - 1UP editor and lifelong fan of Johnnie Walker - posted an entry on his blog drawing similarities between an article he wrote, "Videogame Breast Exam," and a similar GamesRadar piece, "Best in breast."

Sharkey's response to the possible copying? Making fun of GamesRadar's "Wah-Wah IGN copied a Top X Games on a Console Feature" story, utilizing the <strike> command to its fullest capacity. We giggled the most at his altering the email address from "areignrippingusoff@futureus.com" to "crybaby@growaf***ingpair.com." However, this didn't tickle the funny bone of a GamesRadar editor, who posted a response on NeoGAF.

"I have a multitude of potential snarky responses, one of which implies that I could buy 1up and EGM with the change under my sofa, but instead of silly faux rivalries, let's all play some ehcks-bawks thr3-sicksty at my house and have a good time." The real question is if Sharkey wants to hang out and drink beer in a glass house?

Joystiq1UP editor pokes fun at GamesRadar 'copying' features originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 31 Oct 2007 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1UPGamesRadarIGNstupidityWed, 31 Oct 2007 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rock Band drops full set list, minus bonus tracks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/29/rock-band-drops-full-set-list-minus-bonus-tracks/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/29/rock-band-drops-full-set-list-minus-bonus-tracks/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/29/rock-band-drops-full-set-list-minus-bonus-tracks/#commentsFiled under: , ,


While many of you play Guitar Hero III at this very moment, there's a set of virtual rockers waiting a little more than a month to blister their fingers -- those souls awaiting the MTV Games/Harmonix joint, Rock Band. Releasing on November 20, the wait becomes harder and harder with each 30 second clip released of the individual songs.

To at least know what you're getting, Harmonix dropped the full set list off in our inbox this morning, and we're more than happy to share it with you. The list includes 45 out of the 58 tracks, with the unlockable tracks omitted for obvious reasons. So what are you waiting for? Hit that jump!

Continue reading Rock Band drops full set list, minus bonus tracks

JoystiqRock Band drops full set list, minus bonus tracks originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Oct 2007 12:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BreakingNewsEAElectronic-ArtsHarmonixMTVPS3RockBandXbox-360Mon, 29 Oct 2007 12:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo, Chinese government hunts down pirates]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/22/nintendo-chinese-government-hunts-down-pirates/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/22/nintendo-chinese-government-hunts-down-pirates/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/22/nintendo-chinese-government-hunts-down-pirates/#commentsFiled under: ,

Nintendo doesn't get along well with pirates. Maybe they don't like peg legs. Maybe scurvy gives them the creeps. Perhaps, a problem with parrots? Whatever the case may be, let it be known if you're found producing mod chips or game copying devices, Nintendo will raise anchor, drops the sails, and charge at you full speed ahead in a game of aquatic chicken ... and they don't blink (because a corporate entity doesn't have eyes).

Playing the Governor Alexander Spotswood to Supreme Factory's Blackbeard (read some history, damn it!), Nintendo "requested" the Chinese High Court (assuming the role of Lieutenant Robert Maynard) to stop a "global distribution operative involving game copying devices and modification chips." The court raided Supreme Factory, collecting over "10,000 game copying devices and mod chips." Nintendo joined forces with the US Government back in April in an attempt to help curb piracy in China. Guess that's working out well for them.

JoystiqNintendo, Chinese government hunts down pirates originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 22 Oct 2007 23:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSHongKongNintendoPiracyWiiMon, 22 Oct 2007 23:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Donkey Kong Country Competition Cart hits eBay]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/19/donkey-kong-country-competition-cart-hits-ebay/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/19/donkey-kong-country-competition-cart-hits-ebay/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/19/donkey-kong-country-competition-cart-hits-ebay/#commentsFiled under: ,


So you fancy yourself a video game collector? Do you own the Donkey Kong Country Competition Cartridge pictured above, manufactured specifically for the Blockbuster World Videogame Championship II in 1995? Probably not, since according to the auction notes, only "2500 copies" were ever made. There's currently just over two days left, and bidding for this piece of history has already exceeded $175. Expect the sniping to commence closer to the actual auction ending, because most gamers (at least those who play Counter-Strike or Halo 3) seem to be pretty good at it.

JoystiqDonkey Kong Country Competition Cart hits eBay originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Oct 2007 20:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctionhistoryNintendoFri, 19 Oct 2007 20:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect characters looking for friends on Facebook]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/19/mass-effect-characters-looking-for-friends-on-facebook/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/19/mass-effect-characters-looking-for-friends-on-facebook/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/19/mass-effect-characters-looking-for-friends-on-facebook/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Britney and Commander Shepherd from Mass Effect have something in common: they're both looking for friends. Apparently, having your visitation rights with your kids removed and attempting to stop an evil force from causing the downfall of the entire galaxy produce a similar result for such pensive souls: loneliness. While Britney's response isn't terribly civil (then again, when is running over anyone's foot, let alone a paparazzi's?), the commander has tackled the problem in a more head-on way ... by signing up for Facebook.

That's right, after developing space flight mankind still uses Facebook in the year 2138. Amidst photos of underage coeds goaded into performing less than savory acts on frat members and annoying invites to install vampire, werewolf, zombie, pirates, ninjas, or pirates versus ninja applications, Commander Shepherd and a fellow Mass Effect character Wrex have both created their very own profiles on the social networking site. Anyone looking for some friends that are truly out of this world?

JoystiqMass Effect characters looking for friends on Facebook originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Oct 2007 17:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AdvertisingBiowareFacebookMass-EffectXbox-360Fri, 19 Oct 2007 17:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Future comes one week early for Ratchet & Clank]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/19/future-comes-one-week-early-for-ratchet-and-clank/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/19/future-comes-one-week-early-for-ratchet-and-clank/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/19/future-comes-one-week-early-for-ratchet-and-clank/#commentsFiled under: ,


Like the comically violent effects of the series's trademark weapons, some fantastic news comes flying in from the Official PlayStation Blog regarding Ratchet & Clank Future: Tools of Destruction. Due to manufacturer's expediency, the game started arriving in stores early and instead of getting angry and Hulk smashing everything, Sony's given retailers the green light to start selling the game next week. However, it's not yet known what stores will be selling it before the "official" October 30th release date.

This situation currently remains YMMV (Your Mileage May Vary) given there's no list of stores, public anyway, who've received a slice of the Future early. However, expect fellow gamers to post tales of receipt on every forum they post on, which while annoying should aid you in your quest. Good morning, and good luck.

JoystiqFuture comes one week early for Ratchet & Clank originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Oct 2007 11:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BreakingNewsFutureInsomniacPS3ratchetandclankFri, 19 Oct 2007 11:27:00 EST<![CDATA[MGS Portable Ops+ gets dated, no MGS4 PSN demo]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/18/mgs-portable-ops-gets-dated-no-mgs4-psn-demo/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/18/mgs-portable-ops-gets-dated-no-mgs4-psn-demo/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/18/mgs-portable-ops-gets-dated-no-mgs4-psn-demo/#commentsFiled under:


Do you remember when your fake ID couldn't fool the bouncer, leaving you outside sober, cold, and distanced from the girl you were looking to at least play ball with? That's kind of how we're feeling right now, after learning on the latest Kojima Productions podcast that there are no plans to bring a demo of Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots to the PlayStation Store prior to launch.

Host Ryan Payton stated: "I can tell you, as of right now, we don't have any plans of uploading this demo on the PlayStation Store." And definitely, he added, no plans of "uploading [on PSN] next week." His statements were echoed by Konami's new flak master, Michael Shelling, adding "[E for All] is going to be your one chance to actually play it prior to it launching next year."

Yeah, while this news is certainly a crushing blow to the Metal Gear Solid fan base (many of which help run Joystiq), there was at least a little positive news: Shelling revealed that Konami has gone gold with Metal Gear Solid: Portable Ops+, and is planning to release the game on November 13. That's a little antiseptic to the wound, no?

JoystiqMGS Portable Ops+ gets dated, no MGS4 PSN demo originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 18 Oct 2007 12:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BreakingNewsKojimaProductionskonamiMetalGearSolid4MGS4MGS:POPS3PSNThu, 18 Oct 2007 12:23:00 EST<![CDATA[The Sports Guy slips on the NBA Live 08 mo-cap suit]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/17/the-sports-guy-slips-on-the-nba-live-08-mo-cap-suit/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/17/the-sports-guy-slips-on-the-nba-live-08-mo-cap-suit/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/17/the-sports-guy-slips-on-the-nba-live-08-mo-cap-suit/#commentsFiled under: ,

Who says mo-cap is the technical capturing of data to create realistic, fluid motion in gaming that's devoid of soul? Sports writer Bill "The Sports Guy" Simmons did a piece for ESPN's new show, E:60, wherein he heads to EA Sports studios to undergo the motion capture process for NBA Live 08. He even schools Boston Celtics all-star Paul "The Truth" Pierce in the process -- sorta.

While you might have seen mo-cap videos before, Simmons speaks candidly about the technology, observing that sweat makes the suit moist. TMI there, Bill. T-M-I.

JoystiqThe Sports Guy slips on the NBA Live 08 mo-cap suit originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Oct 2007 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BasketballEA SportseasportsNBANBA Live 08Wed, 17 Oct 2007 15:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Rat Race brings episodic comedy to PSN]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/17/rat-race-brings-episodic-comedy-to-psn/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/17/rat-race-brings-episodic-comedy-to-psn/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/17/rat-race-brings-episodic-comedy-to-psn/#commentsFiled under:


No, no, no. We're not talking about the god awful Jerry Zucker film, so stop thinking about Cuba Gooding, Jr. and Whoopi Goldberg right now. The Rat Race we're talking about involves Super-Ego Studios, PlayStation Network, and episodic content. Just announced over at the PlayStation.Blog by Greg Easley, co-founder of Super-Ego Studios, the game "is a PS3-exclusive comedy/adventure game ... that will be available as individual episodes on PSN beginning this winter."

According to the post, the premise reads as if someone thought turning an amalgamation of The Office (British, American, French, or German - take your pick), Dilbert, Office Space, and [insert name of satirical parody of cubical chicanery here] would make for a knee slappin' gaming experience. Easley doesn't deny this, almost confirming its spoofing on the aforementioned works by stating the goal with Rat Race "is to give you the feeling of 'playing' inside an episode of your favorite TV show."

While this definitely diversifies Sony's content, trying to launch comedic gaming via an episodic format in a country where Two and a Half Men is what passes for television's highest rated "comedy" seems rather ... misguided. However, the video on Super-Ego's main page clues us into what the appeal will be: LCD (lowest common denominator). Breast reduction! An extramarital affair with a co-worker's wife! Please, no more, our sides are done "banana'd split."

Gallery: Rat Race

JoystiqRat Race brings episodic comedy to PSN originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Oct 2007 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>episodicPS3PSNRat RaceSuper-EgoWed, 17 Oct 2007 09:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Curses! Madden cover jinx strikes again]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/16/curses-madden-cover-jinx-strikes-again/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/16/curses-madden-cover-jinx-strikes-again/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/16/curses-madden-cover-jinx-strikes-again/#commentsFiled under:


Ah, the best laid plans of game developers and men. Originally selected because of his youth, Vince Young succumbed to the "Madden Curse" this past weekend, suffering a strained right quadriceps muscle in a 13-10 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (we should have placed that bet!).

He's listed as day-to-day by the Titans, but let this be a lesson to any future cover boys out there: the Curse remains. Just ask Garrison Hearst, Barry Sanders, Dorsey Levens, Eddie George, Daunte Culpepper, Marshall Faulk, Michael Vick, Ray Lewis, Donovan McNabb, Shaun Alexander, or of course, Vince Young.

JoystiqCurses! Madden cover jinx strikes again originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 16 Oct 2007 19:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Maddenmadden-curseMaddenCurseNFLVince YoungTue, 16 Oct 2007 19:08:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq review: Yaris (Xbox 360)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/12/joystiq-review-yaris-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/12/joystiq-review-yaris-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/12/joystiq-review-yaris-xbox-360/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Chris Grant, playing the Danny Trip to my Matthew Albie, and I concocted a rather novel concept for Joystiq's Yaris review on Tuesday, wherein Toyota's old marketing slogans would be littered throughout the text. Phrases such as "Moving forward advert gaming" or "Oh what a feeling we get when playing Yaris" would have been the inopportune solid object collision with your funny bone. Unfortunately, to chase the laughs and satirize the release of the Xbox Live Arcade game would be doing a disservice.

Crafted in a circle of Hell even Dante didn't believe existed, the developers of Castaway Entertainment created Yaris with an objective I can only believe is to cultivate anger in those who play it. I know an allusion to Dante's Inferno seems passé, the standard go-to reference for the sophomore year English Lit major, but forgive me because I feel that this accurately conveys what a truly diabolical creation this game is. Rosemary's baby's got jack on Yaris.

Continue reading Joystiq review: Yaris (Xbox 360)

JoystiqJoystiq review: Yaris (Xbox 360) originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Oct 2007 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AdvergameBackbone-EmeryvilleCastaway-EntertainmentmicrosoftToyotaXBLAxboxXbox-360YarisFri, 12 Oct 2007 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[(Cheater) Shawne Merriman elected to grace NFL Tour cover]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/12/cheater-elected-to-grace-nfl-tour-cover/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/12/cheater-elected-to-grace-nfl-tour-cover/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/12/cheater-elected-to-grace-nfl-tour-cover/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Congratulations, voters -- you've elected San Diego Chargers linebacker Shawne "They weren't steroids, it was tainted supplement I won't identify" Merriman to the cover of EA's NFL Tour, a relaunch of the NFL Street series. The contest, launched at the official website in September, pitted Merriman against Miami Dolphins defensive end Jason Taylor and Indianapolis Colts defensive end Dwight Freeny.

It's almost unfortunate to think that a cheater, suspended for four games last season for violating the National Football League's substance abuse policy, gets to be on the cover of a video game. What a wonderful lesson for kids: "It's okay if you juice, Timmy, you just might go to the Pro Bowl after you serve your suspension. If you're lucky, you might end up on the cover of a video game!"

Joystiq(Cheater) Shawne Merriman elected to grace NFL Tour cover originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Oct 2007 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Q: After "Demo Monday," was anyone expecting more demos to touch down on Xbox Live today? A: Hell no! But it seems the Live overlords don't mind stuffing more demos down our throats, as Major Nelson has posted the usual copy and paste announcing the arrival of Project Gotham Racing 4 and F.E.A.R. Files: Extraction demos on XBL.

PGR4 is available in all regions, and gives you a taste of Bizarre Creation's latest (and potentially last) installment in the series. F.E.A.R. Files: Extraction combines the paranormal with polish for a spooky first person experience. So what are you waiting for, get downloading! (P.S. Go Pats!)

JoystiqPGR4, F.E.A.R. Files demos touch down on Xbox Live originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Oct 2007 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bizarre-CreationsFEARPGR4Project-OriginXbox-360Xbox-LiveXboxLiveTue, 09 Oct 2007 19:25:00 EST<![CDATA[UT3 beta demo rocking your PC within two weeks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/09/ut3-beta-demo-rocking-your-pc-within-two-weeks/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/09/ut3-beta-demo-rocking-your-pc-within-two-weeks/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/09/ut3-beta-demo-rocking-your-pc-within-two-weeks/#commentsFiled under: ,


Unreal Tournament 3! Unreal Tournament 3! The sequel to Unreal Tournament 2004, which was preceded by Unreal Tournament 2003. Three cheers for Unreal Tournament 3! Epic's grand poobah Mark Rein recently posted on the game's official forums, dropping some details regarding the upcoming "beta demo" scheduled to come out within "the next two weeks." Rein revealed that the teaser will contain online multiplayer and instant action bot play; a perfect aperitif for the diehard UT fans. Non-alcoholic for the under 21 set.

It's certainly good to hear things are still on track for the PC version of the game, especially when the PS3 version is expected to slip into next year.

JoystiqUT3 beta demo rocking your PC within two weeks originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Oct 2007 18:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sure, Valve's Orange Box releases this week, and many gamers might be heading down to the local big box, sitting in traffic, listening to some sports radio (nerd option: Zelda tunes, Halo soundtrack), dreading the march though the incandescently lit store to the game section only to find ... an empty slot where the object of your desire should be, but isn't! Fortunately, if you pre-loaded or purchased Orange Box on Steam, you won't have to worry about that scenario, get the game just after midnight on Wednesday, and save some gas to boot.

Valve has announced they'll be unlocking Orange Box "just after midnight Pacific time ... on October 10th," giving Steam purchasers the chance enjoy some release (late) night gaming. That means you might be stumbling into work as a raccoon-eyed, sleep deprived zombie, but hey, you were the MVP in TFC2! Totally worth it.

[Via ars technica]

JoystiqOrange Box unlocking 'just after' midnight Wednesday originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Oct 2007 14:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Oh tome, neither secret nor old, what information lies between the cover's fold? Whose to say if this promo material, reportedly obtained at a GameStop manager conference or a Best Buy Gamer's Day in Toronto if we're to "BELIEVE" NeoGAF, actually ruins Ubisoft's Assassin's Creed for you. It ultimately depends what you consider spoilers.

Opinion: It doesn't contain any "Darth Vader is your father" level reveals, opting for more "Porkins dies in the Death Star fight" style non-spoilers. However, if you want to maintain your Assassin's Creed story virginity, you better steer clear of sidcuddlesGHIII's Photobucket account, which contains the entirety of the comic.

[Via NeoGAF.]

JoystiqAssassin's Creed comic provides more questions, few answers originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Oct 2007 12:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Assassins-CreedAssassinsCreedPS3UbisoftXbox-360Mon, 08 Oct 2007 12:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Simpsons, Conan on Xbox Live Monday, Monday, Monday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/08/simpsons-conan-on-xbox-live-monday-monday-monday/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/08/simpsons-conan-on-xbox-live-monday-monday-monday/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/08/simpsons-conan-on-xbox-live-monday-monday-monday/#commentsFiled under:

Monday, Monday, Monday! At home right on your 360, Microsoft dishes out two demos -- a double dose of pain that'll rip out your guts, blow your mind, and leave you burned beyond recognition. The Simpsons Game, fresh off its appearance on the PlayStation Network and getting publishers' panties in a bunch, drops all 442.71 MBs right on your hard drive, with complete disregard to public safety. (Oh, hey, the achievements list still mentions Grand Theft Scratchy?)

Then its time to get barbaric with Conan. Rated M for Mature, the ESRB says this game contains "BLOOD AND GORE, INTENSE VIOLENCE, AND NUDITY." You can't take this game home to your mom, because it'd tread all over her face! Demo Monday, Monday, Monday! You'll pay for the whole controller, but you'll only need the edge!

JoystiqSimpsons, Conan on Xbox Live Monday, Monday, Monday originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Oct 2007 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActionConandemosEAEA-Redwood-ShoresElectronic-ArtsMicrosoftPlatformerThe-SimpsonsThe-Simpsons-GameXbox-360Xbox-LiveMon, 08 Oct 2007 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Major Nelson asks gamers, 'Sup?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/05/major-nelson-asks-gamers-sup/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/05/major-nelson-asks-gamers-sup/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/05/major-nelson-asks-gamers-sup/#commentsFiled under: ,

Over at the house that Major built, Larry Hryb has alerted gamers to a Microsoft pow-pow taking place early next week. Those in attendance include Ray Ozzie, Chief Software Architect, and David Vaskevitch, Chief Technical Officer, just to name a few. Hryb wanted to know, "What would you say to the leaders of services at Microsoft?" So far, the post has received over 400 user comments, with a variety of topics being broached by readers.

The discussion has focused on such lively topics as the "shafting [of] Canadians," general "price of Xbox Live," and ever-so-broad buzzword "innovation." However, some folks appear so damned excited that they're unable to issue coherent suggestions -- tried spell checker? Case in point: Tobe (USA) writes, "u should say that, in the next dashborad update, trails and full games should be seperated in the catagory section of XBLA games." Maybe someone should suggest that Microsoft get up on some educational games, eh?

JoystiqMajor Nelson asks gamers, 'Sup? originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 05 Oct 2007 14:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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