Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[250GB Kinect-free Xbox 360 bundle comes to Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/27/250gb-kinect-free-xbox-360-bundle-comes-to-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/27/250gb-kinect-free-xbox-360-bundle-comes-to-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/27/250gb-kinect-free-xbox-360-bundle-comes-to-japan/#comments Japan's retail shelves will soon be the long-term home to four Xbox 360 options, just in case someone happens to wander to the back of the video game section. A 250GB Xbox sans Kinect will be available sometime before the end of the year (which doesn't leave much shipping time!) for ¥29,800.

Previously, buyers were limited to the choice of a 4GB model with or without a Kinect, or a 250GB bundle with Kinect. That added Kinect really isn't doing anything for sales. The good news here is that if you are in Japan and decide to pick one of these up, you should be able to find a cheap copy of Final Fantasy XIII-2 to go with it.

Joystiq250GB Kinect-free Xbox 360 bundle comes to Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 Dec 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>250gbjapanmicrosoftxboxTue, 27 Dec 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Get $75 credit with purchase of 250GB Xbox 360 today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/31/get-75-credit-with-purchase-of-250gb-xbox-360-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/31/get-75-credit-with-purchase-of-250gb-xbox-360-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/31/get-75-credit-with-purchase-of-250gb-xbox-360-today/#comments Amazon's Video Game Deal of the Day kind of comes with other deals built-in. The retailer is bundling a $75 credit with sales of the 250GB Xbox 360 hardware bundle, which is priced at $300. So, by buying this, you instantly get at least one free game to go with it.

Unless, of course, you choose to use that credit in other ways -- that's up to you. Maybe you want to buy a bunch of Microsoft Points. That works! Or maybe you want to wait on the whole Xbox 360 game thing for a while, just watch Netflix on the console, and buy $75 worth of Cyber Clean to make a horrific lint-eating blob. Totally your call.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in!]

JoystiqGet $75 credit with purchase of 250GB Xbox 360 today originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 31 Aug 2011 15:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>250gbamazondeal-of-the-daymicrosoftxboxxbox-360-sWed, 31 Aug 2011 15:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 250GB bundle throws in Alan Wake, Gears 2, and 3 more [update: Canada only]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/24/xbox-250gb-bundle-throws-in-alan-wake-gears-2-and-3-more/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/24/xbox-250gb-bundle-throws-in-alan-wake-gears-2-and-3-more/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/24/xbox-250gb-bundle-throws-in-alan-wake-gears-2-and-3-more/#comments Reader Darren Christie tweeted a rather official-looking image of a new Xbox 360 bundle. According to the picture, taken at the Future Shop store in which Christie works, the new package includes a 250GB Xbox 360 console and download codes for five of its biggest games: Alan Wake, Halo 3, Halo Wars, Fable 3, and Gears of War 2. In addition to being big in terms of profile, they're also big in terms of file size, with the box warning that these games will occupy 29.51 GB on the hard drive.

Christie told us that the bundle will be released tomorrow for $299.99. He is located in Canada, so it's possible this hardware package is a Canadian-only promotion. We've checked in with Microsoft to get the details. Just to be safe, maybe you should wait a day or so before buying an Xbox.

Update: Shacknews received confirmation from Microsoft that this bundle is exclusive to Canada, out tomorrow, and available for a limited time.

JoystiqXbox 250GB bundle throws in Alan Wake, Gears 2, and 3 more [update: Canada only] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Aug 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>250gbAlan-Wakebundlecanadafable-3gears-of-war-2halo-3halo-warsmicrosoftxboxWed, 24 Aug 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox holiday bundle with Forza 3, downloadable Alan Wake headed to multiple territories]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/15/xbox-holiday-bundle-with-forza-3-downloadable-alan-wake-headed/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/15/xbox-holiday-bundle-with-forza-3-downloadable-alan-wake-headed/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/15/xbox-holiday-bundle-with-forza-3-downloadable-alan-wake-headed/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Just in case you were worried that there weren't quite enough Xbox 360 bundles to choose from, it looks like Microsoft has another one headed down the pike. The bundle in question includes a 250GB Xbox 360 S console as well as Alan Wake and the eternal pack-in, Forza Motorsport 3. The image above -- pulled directly from one of Microsoft's retailer resource services -- is denoted as a Canadian bundle.

Siliconera also reports that the bundle has been announced for South Korea at a price of 398,000 won ($356). A tipster has informed Kotaku that the bundle is available in Europe as well, retailing for €250 ($348). We've contacted Microsoft to find out if the bundle is coming stateside as well.

One intriguing note about the bundle: It doesn't actually include a physical copy of Alan Wake, instead offering a code to download the game in its entirety (see a close-up image in the gallery below). While it's likely to be a Games on Demand title in the near future, it's also worth noting that Remedy has expressed interest in releasing the game in downloadable episodes, a la Fable 2.

Gallery: Xbox 360 250GB Holiday 2010 bundle

JoystiqXbox holiday bundle with Forza 3, downloadable Alan Wake headed to multiple territories originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Oct 2010 15:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>250gbalan-wakebundlecanadaforza-motorsport-3holiday-bundleholiday-bundleskoreamicrosoftxboxFri, 15 Oct 2010 15:10:00 EST<![CDATA[4GB Xbox 360 arrives in Japan on Sept. 9]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/24/4gb-xbox-360-arrives-in-japan-on-september-9/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/24/4gb-xbox-360-arrives-in-japan-on-september-9/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/24/4gb-xbox-360-arrives-in-japan-on-september-9/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Microsoft is launching its cheaper 4GB XBox 360 S in Japan on September 9. It'll sell for the same ¥19,800 ($235) price as the original Arcade system, and will come packed with a wireless controller, AV cables and an AC adapter. No big surprises. It makes even more sense to have a cheaper Xbox bundle in Japan than it does here, since Microsoft has to do something to try to sell some of these.

What is a bit more surprising, considering the stealth launch of the accessory in America, is that Microsoft officially announced a separate 250GB hard drive for Japan at the same time. The ¥15,540 ($184) price is a good indicator that people should seriously just buy the 250GB Xbox 360 bundle.

Joystiq4GB Xbox 360 arrives in Japan on Sept. 9 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Aug 2010 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>250gb250gb-hddJapanmicrosoftRelease-DatexboxXbox-360-SXbox-360-SlimTue, 24 Aug 2010 10:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 S 250GB hard drive available ... right now]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/20/xbox-360-s-250gb-hard-drive-available-right-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/20/xbox-360-s-250gb-hard-drive-available-right-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/20/xbox-360-s-250gb-hard-drive-available-right-now/#commentsFiled under: , ,

If you already want a hard drive for that 4GB Xbox 360 S you bought, you could wait patiently for Microsoft to announce the accessory ... or you could just go to Gamestop and buy one. Reader Iain informs Joystiq that he spotted the 250GB hard drives for the redesigned Xbox in his local store -- and they're also available on GameStop.com right now. (We couldn't find the item being offered by any other retailer yet.)

Of course, the $130 price for the drive completely obliterates any savings you might temporarily enjoy after buying the $200 4GB model (or the upcoming Kinect bundle), but it sure beats a mountain of USB flash drives.

[Thanks, Iain]

JoystiqXbox 360 S 250GB hard drive available ... right now originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Aug 2010 09:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>250gbgamestophard-drivemicrosoftretailxboxxbox-360-sxbox-360-slimFri, 20 Aug 2010 09:54:00 EST<![CDATA[MLB 10 PS3 Slim bundle outed again by Target]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/mlb-10-ps3-slim-bundle-outed-again-by-target/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/mlb-10-ps3-slim-bundle-outed-again-by-target/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/mlb-10-ps3-slim-bundle-outed-again-by-target/#comments Two weeks ago, we published reports from a Target employee who claimed an MLB 10-branded 250GB PS3 Slim bundle had appeared on their store's list of new releases. Recently, another piece of evidence surfaced which adds further credibility to the story: Target's online store recently added the MLB 10 bundle to its virtual shelves.

The online listing is scant on details -- it only mentions that the bundle comes with the console and a copy of the game. The tipster from two weeks ago reported a release date of June 13, and a price of $349.99 for the package. Once again, we've contacted Sony to try and get official confirmation of these details.

[Thanks, Shiloh]

JoystiqMLB 10 PS3 Slim bundle outed again by Target originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 May 2010 12:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>250gbbaseballbundlemlb-10-the-showps3-slimtargetWed, 26 May 2010 12:25:00 EST<![CDATA[ModNation Racers hardware bundles speeding to Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/04/modnation-racers-hardware-bundles-speeding-to-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/04/modnation-racers-hardware-bundles-speeding-to-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/04/modnation-racers-hardware-bundles-speeding-to-europe/#comments SCEE loves bundles, so it comes as no surprise that Sony is preparing special ModNation Racers packages for both the PS3 and PSP in Europe. The PS3 package, spotted by TheSixthAxis, is rather no-frills, simply bundling the game and a 250GB Slim system for €315. The PSP package is slightly more interesting, including a PSP-3000, a copy of the game on UMD and a ModNation-branded case for €150.

Neither of these offerings have been announced (or are expected to be announced) for America. Expect a review of ModNation Racers tomorrow.

JoystiqModNation Racers hardware bundles speeding to Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 May 2010 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>250gbamazonbundleeuropemodnation-racerssceeTue, 04 May 2010 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft phasing out memory units and 120GB hard drive]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/26/microsoft-phasing-out-memory-units-and-120gb-hard-drive/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/26/microsoft-phasing-out-memory-units-and-120gb-hard-drive/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/26/microsoft-phasing-out-memory-units-and-120gb-hard-drive/#comments Larry "Major Nelson" Hryb has confirmed the inevitable to Joystiq: Xbox 360 Memory Units and the 120GB hard drive are being phased out. Acknowledging what's been in the stars since February, the Xbox spokesman stated that "the channel is being drained" of the storage options. The same goes for Memory Units, which, after today's official announcement of USB support, makes the MU even less useful.

This makes the $130 250GB HDD the primary option ... well, at least until this fall, if the Xbox Slim comes to pass.

JoystiqMicrosoft phasing out memory units and 120GB hard drive originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Mar 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>250gb250gb-hddlarry-hrybmajor-nelsonmemory-unitmicrosoftmupax-east-2010Xbox-360Fri, 26 Mar 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Standalone Xbox 250GB HDD confirmed by Dashboard [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/23/standalone-xbox-360-250gb-hard-drive-confirmed-by-dashboard/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/23/standalone-xbox-360-250gb-hard-drive-confirmed-by-dashboard/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/23/standalone-xbox-360-250gb-hard-drive-confirmed-by-dashboard/#comments While Microsoft may have stated up, down and sidesaddle that the 250GB version of its Xbox 360 HDD would remain exclusive to special console bundles (e.g., Modern Warfare 2 and Splinter Cell: Conviction), it would appear that the particular drive will arrive as a standalone accessory sometime soon. As spotted by eagle-eyed Joystiq reader Rodney in the Spotlight section of the Xbox 360 Dashboard (pictured above), the accessory should be available at "participating retailers" rather soon -- the ad's wording indicates that the HDD might already be on store shelves (as of this writing, Amazon has the product listed without a price).

Though it's odd to see an official reveal through the Xbox Dashboard, we have been hearing rumblings about a standalone version of the 250GB HDD for quite some time -- listings even popped up on retail sites earlier this month bearing ... today's date! We've contacted Microsoft for pricing and release info, but until the West Coast wakes up, we've got this thrilling hi-res gallery of the Dashboard advertisement for you below.

[Update: We've just gotten official word from Microsoft that the 250 GB HDD retails for $129.99 and should be available today.]

Gallery: Xbox 360 Dashboard with 250GB HDD ad


[Thanks Rodney!]

JoystiqStandalone Xbox 250GB HDD confirmed by Dashboard [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Mar 2010 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>250gb250gb-hddaccessoriesdashboardhard-driveMicrosoftXbox-360Tue, 23 Mar 2010 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GameStop lists standalone Xbox 360 250GB hard drive [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/02/gamestop-lists-xbox-360-250gb-hard-drive/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/02/gamestop-lists-xbox-360-250gb-hard-drive/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/02/gamestop-lists-xbox-360-250gb-hard-drive/#comments GameStop has listed a 250 GB Xbox 360 hard drive for sale, priced at $130 and scheduled to release on March 23. When reached for comment, Microsoft declined to make a statement by the time of this posting. Checking with GameStop, the retailer wouldn't confirm the product either, but did tell us that the page featuring the 250GB drive "is not an error."

Microsoft had previously stated, like, only two weeks ago, that it planned to keep the larger drives tied to bundles. Xbox 360 and Xbox Live Product Manager Aaron Greenberg also told us at the time, "We're always evaluating." Clearly.

Update 1: GameStop has removed the listing. Additionally, tipster Matt V. (thanks dude!) reports that, on March 9, Amazon also briefly listed the 250GB drive dated for March 23 -- for only $59.99! Though the likely erroneous offer has since been removed from the online retailer, Matt says his order is still active and that Amazon has emailed him with a new estimated ship date of April 10. The plot thickens ...

Update 2: As of March 22, tipster Matt's order has been canceled by Amazon, but the retailer does suggest that an "alternate" item has been listed.

[Thanks, Patrick]

JoystiqGameStop lists standalone Xbox 360 250GB hard drive [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Mar 2010 18:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>250gbgamestophard-drivehddmicrosoftrelease-dateretailXbox-360xbox-360-arcadeTue, 02 Mar 2010 18:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Splinter Cell: Conviction Xbox 360 bundle coming this April]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/02/splinter-cell-conviction-xbox-360-bundle-coming-this-april/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/02/splinter-cell-conviction-xbox-360-bundle-coming-this-april/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/02/splinter-cell-conviction-xbox-360-bundle-coming-this-april/#comments
click for more top-secret images As was foretold, Microsoft has announced a special Splinter Cell: Conviction Xbox 360 bundle set to arrive this April in North America, Europe, Australia and New Zealand. The bundle will retail for $399 and will include two controllers, a standard edition copy of Splinter Cell: Conviction and a 250GB hard drive. We should remind readers that, unlike the one offered in the Final Fantasy XIII bundle, the second controller will actually be useful in Splinter Cell: Conviction, thanks to its split-screen co-op modes.

Check out hi-res images of the bundle in the gallery below.

Gallery: Splinter Cell: Conviction Xbox 360 bundle

JoystiqSplinter Cell: Conviction Xbox 360 bundle coming this April originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Mar 2010 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>250gbbundleMicrosoftSplinter-Cellsplinter-cell-convictionubisoftubisoft-montrealXbox-360xbox-360-bundleTue, 02 Mar 2010 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3's Torne DVR launching in Japan March 18]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/16/ps3s-torne-dvr-launching-in-japan-march-18/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/16/ps3s-torne-dvr-launching-in-japan-march-18/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/16/ps3s-torne-dvr-launching-in-japan-march-18/#commentsIf you want to pick up the Torne PS3 DVR unit, March 18 is the day to do that. If you're buying a PS3 for the first time and hoping to get the bundle, you should know that the package (which includes a PS3 with a 250GB hard drive and the Torne unit for ¥42,800 or $466.52) will be available in "limited quantities." You should also know that this is designed for Japanese terrestrial TV signals, and isn't likely to work outside of that country.

On Saturdays throughout February and early March, Sony will hold demonstrations of the Torne device in electronics stores in Tokyo and Osaka, as well as Sony's own Ginza Sony Building.

JoystiqPS3's Torne DVR launching in Japan March 18 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 16 Feb 2010 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>250gb250gb-hdddvrjapansonytorneTue, 16 Feb 2010 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Interview: Aaron Greenberg talks Xbox 1 Live shutdown, hard drives, and Games on Demand]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/12/interview-aaron-greenberg-talks-xbox-1-live-shutdown-hard-driv/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/12/interview-aaron-greenberg-talks-xbox-1-live-shutdown-hard-driv/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/12/interview-aaron-greenberg-talks-xbox-1-live-shutdown-hard-driv/#commentsIf you thought the jam-packed Xbox lineup on display at the X10 event was exciting for you, imagine being one of the people in charge of it. Microsoft's Aaron Greenberg got to watch reactions to the lineup at the event all day -- except, of course, for the time he took out to speak to us about the crowded game schedule, Project Natal, and more.

Greenberg remained genial even when faced with familiar questions about the ramifications of the removal of Xbox 1 Live support, and with random, odd questions generated from Joystiq's interview brainstorming session, such as:

Joystiq: Can you make Kudo in Kodu?

Aaron Greenberg: What?

I don't know. Don't worry about it.

Does not compute.

Continue reading Interview: Aaron Greenberg talks Xbox 1 Live shutdown, hard drives, and Games on Demand

JoystiqInterview: Aaron Greenberg talks Xbox 1 Live shutdown, hard drives, and Games on Demand originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Feb 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>250gbaaron-greenberginterviewMicrosoftproject-natalx10xbox-1Xbox-360xbox-liveFri, 12 Feb 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Greenberg: No plans for 250GB Xbox hard drive outside of bundles]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/12/greenberg-no-plans-for-250gb-xbox-hard-drive-outside-of-bundles/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/12/greenberg-no-plans-for-250gb-xbox-hard-drive-outside-of-bundles/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/12/greenberg-no-plans-for-250gb-xbox-hard-drive-outside-of-bundles/#commentsIf you've been downloading demos and premium themes at a furious pace in anticipation of an upcoming 250GB hard drive for Xbox 360, you may want to rethink your data footprint. Speaking to Joystiq yesterday at X10, Xbox 360 and Xbox Live Product Manager Aaron Greenberg told us that the 250GB hard drive is likely to remain exclusive to limited-edition bundles.

"We did it with the Modern Warfare bundle, which, as people know, was a huge success, completely sold out," he reminded us. "We're excited to bring it back with the limited edition Final Fantasy bundle." Greenberg said that the limited nature of the bigger drive is "part of what makes it special."

Greenberg also mentioned that much of the Xbox 360's functionality, like Netflix, Facebook, and Twitter, and even the Zune Video Marketplace, doesn't require storing big files on the hard drive. "That said, we understand that game demos, a lot of the game add-on content does take up space."

"We're always evaluating," he said, "but for now we feel like the 120 is serving us very well as the standard offering, and then having the 250 as a limited edition is a good balance." Keep some space in your browser cache free for our full interview with Greenberg.

JoystiqGreenberg: No plans for 250GB Xbox hard drive outside of bundles originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Feb 2010 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>250gb250gb-hddaaron-greenbergfinal-fantasy-xiiiMicrosoftspecial-editionXbox-360Fri, 12 Feb 2010 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XIII Special Edition Xbox 360 Bundle includes 250GB hard drive, will cost $399]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/11/final-fantasy-xiii-special-edition-xbox-360-bundle-includes-250g/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/11/final-fantasy-xiii-special-edition-xbox-360-bundle-includes-250g/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/11/final-fantasy-xiii-special-edition-xbox-360-bundle-includes-250g/#comments
Click to embiggen.
Launching simultaneously with Final Fantasy XIII in the US is a limited edition 250GB Xbox 360 console. Included in the box is a copy of the game, two wireless controllers, a headset, a FF-branded hard drive, and "exclusive downloadable avatar items" -- perhaps something to go with your pet Chocobo. All of this will be packaged together for $399, according to Major Nelson.

Microsoft is trying to make sure Final Fantasy fans from the PS2 generation will choose Xbox 360 as their console of choice. The carefully worded press release notes that this is "the only console outside of Japan to be bundled with the game." In other words, don't expect the limited edition PS3 to make its way Stateside. Ever.

In addition, Microsoft also plans to release a Final Fantasy XIII faceplate designed by Tetsuya Nomura and not included with the special edition bundle. The press release doesn't explain exactly how to get one, only stating that a "very limited number" will be available "promotionally in fixed quantities across select retailers in Europe, North America, Australia, and New Zealand."

Gallery: Final Fantasy XIII Special Edition Xbox 360 bundle

JoystiqFinal Fantasy XIII Special Edition Xbox 360 Bundle includes 250GB hard drive, will cost $399 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Feb 2010 17:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>250gbbundlefinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-xiiimicrosoftsquare-enixx10xbox-360Thu, 11 Feb 2010 17:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 120GB HDD discounted in the US too, again 'while supplies last']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/05/xbox-360-120gb-hdd-discounted-in-the-us-too-again-while-suppli/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/05/xbox-360-120gb-hdd-discounted-in-the-us-too-again-while-suppli/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/05/xbox-360-120gb-hdd-discounted-in-the-us-too-again-while-suppli/#comments After discovering that the Xbox 360 120GB hard drive has been discounted in Europe "while supplies last," Joystiq has now learned that the drive has been discounted in the United States as well. When asked if the European discount would make it overseas, a Microsoft representative informed Joystiq that the drive has been reduced to $129.99. Again, the rep noted that the discount will apply "while supplies last," which implies that the 120GB drive won't be around for much longer. When asked directly if the unit was being discontinued, the rep stated only that she couldn't comment.

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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>120gb250gbhard-drivemicrosoftperipheralsXbox-360Fri, 05 Feb 2010 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[120GB Xbox 360 HDD discounted in Europe 'while supplies last']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/04/120gb-xbox-360-hdd-discounted-in-europe-while-supplies-last/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/04/120gb-xbox-360-hdd-discounted-in-europe-while-supplies-last/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/04/120gb-xbox-360-hdd-discounted-in-europe-while-supplies-last/#comments According to Eurogamer, Microsoft has announced that the Xbox 360 120GB hard drive has now been discounted to €129.99 ($180) in Europe and £79.99 ($125) in the UK. Curiously, the Microsoft representative appended "while supplies last" to the announcement, implying that the 120GB won't be around for much longer. This news comes on the heels of a standalone 250GB hard drive being announced for Japan. When asked whether that drive would release outside of Japan, Microsoft informed Joystiq that it had nothing to announce at the time.

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

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

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

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>120gb250gb250gb-hddaccessorieseuropehard-drivehddMicrosoftukXbox-360Thu, 04 Feb 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[250GB Xbox 360 HDD headed to Japan in March [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/01/250gb-xbox-360-hdd-headed-to-japan-in-march/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/01/250gb-xbox-360-hdd-headed-to-japan-in-march/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/01/250gb-xbox-360-hdd-headed-to-japan-in-march/#comments Update: When asked whether the 250GB drive would release outside of Japan, Microsoft has informed Joystiq that it has "nothing to announce" at this time.

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

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

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

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

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>250gb250gb-hddaccessorieshardwarejapanmicrosoftxboxxbox-360Mon, 01 Feb 2010 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavy Rain, God of War III PS3 bundles listed for Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/21/heavy-rain-god-of-war-iii-ps3-bundles-listed-for-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/21/heavy-rain-god-of-war-iii-ps3-bundles-listed-for-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/21/heavy-rain-god-of-war-iii-ps3-bundles-listed-for-europe/#commentsIf you're in Europe, you'll have the option to buy an even bigger, more expensive, but less crazy God of War III box than the "Ultimate Trilogy Edition." An Amazon.fr listing for a God of War III PS3 bundle has been spotted, complete with very believable image. According to Amazon, it'll be available March 17 for €349.95 (roughly $490) and will include the game and a 250GB PS3.

A similar bundle will also be released for Heavy Rain on February 24 for the same price, according to Amazon France -- and wouldn't you know, the bundle box image is classier than the North American game box. There's also a supposed MAG bundle due out January 29, but Amazon just shows the bundle as a regular 250GB PS3 and a copy of MAG.

[Via Kotaku; thanks francisco dang!]

JoystiqHeavy Rain, God of War III PS3 bundles listed for Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 21 Jan 2010 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>250gbamazonbundleeuropefrancegod-of-war-iiiheavy-rainInteractive-DramamagQuantic-DreamSCESCEASonySony-Computer-EntertainmentSony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericaThu, 21 Jan 2010 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect 2 'super elite' 360 bundle bound for Australia only, EA says]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/18/mass-effect-2-super-elite-360-bundle-bound-for-australia-only/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/18/mass-effect-2-super-elite-360-bundle-bound-for-australia-only/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/18/mass-effect-2-super-elite-360-bundle-bound-for-australia-only/#comments EA has confirmed it will only be shipping its $600 AUD ($550 USD), 250GB HDD-equipped "super elite" Xbox 360 bundle (breath) to Australia, according to a report from VG247. "This is a local bundle deal that the [EA Australia] team has sorted," an EA representative explained.

The bundle is said to contain two black wireless controllers (standard Microsoft issue) and a wired headset; a regular, non-fancy copy of Mass Effect 2; an Xbox 360 Elite (sans promotional artwork, unfortunately); and a 250GB HDD. Just like the Modern Warfare 2 "Super Elite" console, we imagine supplies will be limited -- to Australia, in this case.

Gallery: Mass Effect 2

JoystiqMass Effect 2 'super elite' 360 bundle bound for Australia only, EA says originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Jan 2010 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>250gb250gb-hddaustraliabundleeaea-australiaElectronic-Artsmass-effectmass-effect-2microsoftsuper-eliteXbox-360xbox-360-super-eliteMon, 18 Jan 2010 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: 250GB PS3 available now]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/03/psa-250gb-ps3-available-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/03/psa-250gb-ps3-available-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/03/psa-250gb-ps3-available-now/#comments Just a quick reminder to let everyone know that the 250GB PlayStation 3 is available now in North America. The package runs $349 and crams a console, 250GB hard drive, controller and composite AV cables into the box. As the more astute readers have no doubt realized, the only thing different from the 120GB model is the 250GB hard drive. Still, as Gaming Bits points out, that's more than twice the storage for an extra $50 over the $299 model.

Of course, with Black Friday sales just a few weeks away, you might consider waiting to see what deals will be available before taking the plunge.

JoystiqPSA: 250GB PS3 available now originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>250gbconsoleplaystation-3ps3ps3-slimsonyTue, 03 Nov 2009 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony confirms standalone 250GB PS3 for US at $349]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/15/sony-confirms-standalone-250gb-ps3-for-us-at-349/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/15/sony-confirms-standalone-250gb-ps3-for-us-at-349/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/15/sony-confirms-standalone-250gb-ps3-for-us-at-349/#comments
Sony's back to the two-SKU configuration with PS3 "Slim," today announcing that the 250GB model of the system previously announced for everywhere but the US will be coming to these shores on November 3. The machine will sell for $349, which is $50 more than the $299, 120GB model. Fifty bucks for an extra 100GB ain't too bad, considering Microsoft's hard disk pricing.

There's still not a peep about whether we can expect any of the 250GB bundles meant for other territories, but we're activating full-on Pester Mode (target: SCEA) a quote we received from Sony reads, "Re: North American bundles, we don't have any plans to announce at this time." Reads to us like there are plans, just none the company wants to talk about right now.

JoystiqSony confirms standalone 250GB PS3 for US at $349 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Oct 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>250gbps3-slimsonyThu, 15 Oct 2009 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Tekken 6 also bundled with 250GB PS3 in Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/06/rumor-tekken-6-also-bundled-with-250gb-ps3-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/06/rumor-tekken-6-also-bundled-with-250gb-ps3-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/06/rumor-tekken-6-also-bundled-with-250gb-ps3-in-europe/#commentsThere's a confusing variety of 250GB PlayStation 3 bundles available in different regions. Put simply, the following theorem appears to hold true: if there's a high-profile PS3 game on the way this year, there is also a PS3 bundle for it somewhere in the world. The latest potential candidate for a bundle: Tekken 6, as suggested by this image posted by Dutch site Nextgamer. It matches the look of the Need for Speed Shift bundle box posted by Engadget, except it includes a note about the hard drive size, which is omitted from the Shift box.

Sony UK revealed a surprising lack of investment in its worldwide operations when it told CVG that "We're not doing that bundle but one of the territories might be." Even if it is real, you don't get an arcade stick with this bundle, so it seems less than ideal.

JoystiqRumor: Tekken 6 also bundled with 250GB PS3 in Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Oct 2009 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>250gbbundlefightingnamco-bandainetherlandsrumortekken-6Tue, 06 Oct 2009 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[250GB PS3 Slim bundles also coming to Europe [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/25/250gb-ps3-slim-bundles-also-coming-to-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/25/250gb-ps3-slim-bundles-also-coming-to-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/25/250gb-ps3-slim-bundles-also-coming-to-europe/#comments Earlier this week, we got our hands on a few European GameStop listings for 250GB PS3 bundles. Earlier today, SCEE and SCE UK confirmed the hardware packages and included games. Earlier this hour, we went to Whole Foods and purchased some really crisp bok choy. (Sorry. We got into a rhythm there.)

Europeans will have their choice of two bundles, both of which will be made available throughout October. One of the collections includes Need for Speed: Shift, while the other includes FIFA 10. Needless to say, both bundles come with the recently GB-boosted console. A price point for these two bundles has not been specified, but we've contacted Sony for clarification.

Bizarrely enough, the UK's getting a different set of bundles than the rest of the continent. On October 1, United Kingdomites will have their choice of a 250GB PS3 bundled with Infamous or two unnamed Platinum Hits. Their options will be further expanded on October 16 with the release of an Uncharted 2 bundle, and once more on October 19 with a bundle that includes the X-Men Origins: Wolverine and The Dark Knight films on Blu-ray and a film-friendly remote control.

SCE UK has graciously provided a price for its bundles -- £284.99 ($450) -- making it our certified favourite European Sony chapter of the day. That's as legit as being knighted by the Queen, you know.

Update: After the break, we've posted a snapshot of the FIFA bundle provided by a GameStop employee in Norway.

Continue reading 250GB PS3 Slim bundles also coming to Europe [update]

Joystiq250GB PS3 Slim bundles also coming to Europe [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 Sep 2009 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>250gbbundlebundleseuropefifa-10hardwareinfamousneed-for-speed-shiftps3ps3-slimsceesonySony-Computer-Entertainment-Europeukuncharted-2Uncharted-2-Among-ThievesFri, 25 Sep 2009 13:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Australia to receive several 250GB PS3 bundles]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/24/australia-getting-several-250gb-ps3-bundles/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/24/australia-getting-several-250gb-ps3-bundles/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/24/australia-getting-several-250gb-ps3-bundles/#comments
Aussie reader, if you've been salivating over the prospect of owning a 250GB PS3 Slim, know your day is coming. SCE Australia has confirmed the console is headed down under and will be bundled with one of the following titles:
The bundles will go on sale starting October 15 and retail for $599.95RRP, coinciding with the release date of Uncharted 2. Perfect timing! You're going to need every last one of those gigglebytes to store the countless Machinima fan fictions you've already concocted in your head.

[Thanks, Adrian]

JoystiqAustralia to receive several 250GB PS3 bundles originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 Sep 2009 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>250gbaustraliabundlesozps3-slimratchet-and-clankratchet-and-clank-a-crack-in-timesingstar-motownuncharted-2uncharted-2-among-thievesThu, 24 Sep 2009 14:29:00 EST<![CDATA[TGS 2009: Sony Japan unveils 250GB Final Fantasy XIII bundle]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/24/sony-japan-unveils-250gb-final-fantasy-xiii-bundle/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/24/sony-japan-unveils-250gb-final-fantasy-xiii-bundle/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/24/sony-japan-unveils-250gb-final-fantasy-xiii-bundle/#comments
Click to embiggen.

The 250GB PS3 is real! Sony is taking advantage of its exclusivity of Final Fantasy XIII in Japan by introducing a new bundle. For 41600 yen, Japanese gamers will get a special limited edition system with Lightning (the main character, not the weather condition) printed on the body. It'll be available for purchase on 12/17 (so importers, get ready!).

We'll upload images as soon as we get them. In the meantime, you can download Final Fantasy VIII from the Japanese PlayStation Store for 1500 yen.

Gallery: Final Fantasy XIII 250GB PS3

JoystiqTGS 2009: Sony Japan unveils 250GB Final Fantasy XIII bundle originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 Sep 2009 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>250gbff13final-fantasy-viiifinal-fantasy-xiiijapanps3psnsquare-enixtgs-2009Thu, 24 Sep 2009 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Handful of 250GB PS3 bundles heading to Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/21/rumor-handful-of-250gb-ps3-bundles-heading-to-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/21/rumor-handful-of-250gb-ps3-bundles-heading-to-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/21/rumor-handful-of-250gb-ps3-bundles-heading-to-europe/#comments
This morning, Joystiq received two images, from an alleged Norwegian GameStop employee, in which multiple PlayStation 3 250GB game bundle SKUs are visibly on display. In one image, claimed to be an internal email to all Norwegian GameStop employees, instructions on the difference between the rumored 250GB PS3 bundles and the current 120GB PS3 are found. The email "there is no difference" aside from storage space and posits four possible "PS3 250GB" bundles: One paired with "NFS" (presumably Need for Speed: Shift); another with "FIFA" (presumably FIFA 10); a third with Uncharted 2; and the final one with Assassin's Creed 2.

In the second image, our anonymous tipster supposedly snapped what looks to be the familiar GameStop clerk inventory screen, albeit with commands in Norwegian. It suggests yet another 250GB PS3 bundle, this time with "Ratchet" (presumably Ratchet & Clank Future: A Crack in Time) attached. If we're to trust these images, the bundles will be priced at 3799 kr ($644.16), a 500 kr ($84.78) increase from the current price of a 120GB PS3 Slim at Norwegian GameStops. No release dates are given.

We were told last week by Sony of America that an image of an Uncharted 2 PS3 250GB bundle was a "complete fabrication," and as such we've contacted Sony of America as well as Sony of Europe for comment on these images. We'll update this post as we hear more.

Gallery: GameStop Norway PS3 250GB Bundle Images

JoystiqRumor: Handful of 250GB PS3 bundles heading to Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 Sep 2009 12:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>250gbassassins-creed-2bundlesfifa-10gamestopneed-for-speedratchet-and-clank-future-a-crack-in-timeretailrumorsonyuncharted-2Uncharted-2-Among-ThievesMon, 21 Sep 2009 12:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony: 250GB HDD + Uncharted 2 PS3 bundle 'complete fabrication' [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/16/250gb-hdd-uncharted-2-playstation-3-bundle-spotted/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/16/250gb-hdd-uncharted-2-playstation-3-bundle-spotted/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/16/250gb-hdd-uncharted-2-playstation-3-bundle-spotted/#comments A PlayStation 3 Slim bundle containing a 250GB hard drive and Uncharted 2 was leaked by an anonymous tipster at Engadget. Though no price or release date info was provided, Engadget was able to independently confirm the bundle's legitimacy. We've reached out to Sony for comment and have yet to hear back as of publication [see update below], though a representative from Uncharted 2 developer Naughty Dog had yet to even hear of the bundle.

Considering we heard about the larger hard drive nearly a month ago via an FCC filing (those things don't lie people!), we're pretty sure the Sony's just holding off on an announcement until the Tokyo Game Show next week. Those three UK-based PS3 bundles now seem to be that much more likely, don't they?

Update: Sony America says, "That tip is a complete fabrication." To be clear, this statement does not represent SCE (Japan) or SCEE (Europe), though it does absolutely deny the existence of any 250GB PlayStation 3 bundle in the US this year.

JoystiqSony: 250GB HDD + Uncharted 2 PS3 bundle 'complete fabrication' [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>250gb250gb-hddbundlefccnaughty-dogps3-bundlesceasonySony-Computer-Entertainment-Americauncharteduncharted-2Uncharted-2-Among-ThievesWed, 16 Sep 2009 17:20:00 EST