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 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Simpsons, Alvin and the Chipmunks writer penning Angry Birds movie]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/simpsons-alvin-and-the-chipmunks-writer-penning-angry-birds-mov/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/simpsons-alvin-and-the-chipmunks-writer-penning-angry-birds-mov/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/simpsons-alvin-and-the-chipmunks-writer-penning-angry-birds-mov/#comments
The screenplay for Rovio's in-house Angry Birds film is being written by Jon Vitti, the Finnish developer has announced. A writer and producer, Vitti has worked on the screenplay for The Simpsons Movie and both 3D Alvin and the Chipmunks films, as well as two episodes of The Office, 25 episodes of The Simpsons and 20 episodes of late-80s Saturday Night Live.

Vitti's tenue on The Simpsons spanned 1990 through 2004, with his creative mark left on landmark episodes such as "When Flanders Failed," "Cape Feare" and "Mr. Plow," among others. As we learned last week, Angry Birds will be distributed by Sony Pictures and will arrive in theaters on July 1, 2016.

JoystiqSimpsons, Alvin and the Chipmunks writer penning Angry Birds movie originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 May 2013 01:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>angry-birdscape-feareJon-Vittimr-plowroviosony-pictureswhen-flanders-failedThu, 23 May 2013 01:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Spellirium hits $10K in pre-order fundraiser]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/spellirium-hits-10k-in-pre-order-fundraiser/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/spellirium-hits-10k-in-pre-order-fundraiser/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/spellirium-hits-10k-in-pre-order-fundraiser/#commentsSpellirium hits first funding goal Spellirium - the graphic-adventure, wordsmithing puzzler from Ponycorn overseer Ryan Creighton - successfully raised $10,000 through a pre-order fundraiser that he describes as a "Kickender." Pre-orders at all tiers - $15 to $1,000 - get into the Spellirium alpha for PC and Mac. The game is almost done, and all funds go toward finishing the final cut scenes and adding sounds and polish.

"That was the hardest ten grand I've ever made. And I was a paperboy," Creighton tweeted.

Pre-orders are still open, and the Kickender is now on goal two, which is "Act 3, Adequately Animated." Check out Creighton's pre-order pitch video on the Spellirium site, but be warned - once you open the page, it auto-plays some intense medieval folk music.

Spellirium is also up for a run on Steam via Greenlight.

JoystiqSpellirium hits $10K in pre-order fundraiser originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fundraisingmacpcpre-orderryan-creightonSpelliriumUntold-EntertainmentWed, 22 May 2013 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tearaway hogs all of the pre-order perks in the US]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/tearaway-hogs-all-of-the-pre-order-perks-in-the-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/tearaway-hogs-all-of-the-pre-order-perks-in-the-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/tearaway-hogs-all-of-the-pre-order-perks-in-the-us/#commentsTearaway US preorders detailed, screens mini Forget everything you know about Tearaway and focus on this one fact: It has an in-game, rideable pig. This little piggy is only accessible through pre-orders at participating retailers, Media Molecule Community Manager James Spafford writes on the PlayStation Blog.

Pre-orders in the US get a slew of swine-related and assorted goodies: the Tearaway soundtrack with a bonus song, iota and atoi costumes for LittleBigPlanet, a Vita wallpaper, iota and atoi avatars for use on PSN, and a skin for a rideable pig and matching, real-life printable papercraft.

These pre-order perks sound suspiciously similar to those announced for Europe, but those were split into two packs; one with the soundtrack but without the pig, and the other with the pig but no tunes.

JoystiqTearaway hogs all of the pre-order perks in the US originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>media-moleculeplaystationplaystation-vitapre-ordertearawayvitaWed, 22 May 2013 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Microsoft's NFL deal valued at $400 million over five years]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/report-microsofts-nfl-deal-valued-at-400-million-over-five-ye/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/report-microsofts-nfl-deal-valued-at-400-million-over-five-ye/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/report-microsofts-nfl-deal-valued-at-400-million-over-five-ye/#comments The NFL will receive $400 million from Microsoft over the next five years, according to an Associated Press source. The partnership was announced during Microsoft's Xbox One unveiling yesterday and will see NFL content coming to Microsoft's next-generation console.

As for the NFL side, fans will see Microsoft branding on-field during live games starting this upcoming season. Coaches and other team officials will be provided Microsoft Surface tablets, with the possibility of further technological innovations coming from Microsoft throughout the longevity of the deal.

The Xbox One will have interactive features integrated during broadcasts, including SmartGlass, group Skype calling and fantasy stats available during live NFL games. Recently, Amazon announced a limited edition version of Madden NFL 25 bundled with a free DirecTV NFL Sunday Ticket subscription.

JoystiqReport: Microsoft's NFL deal valued at $400 million over five years originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kinectmicrosoftnational-football-leaguenflxboxxbox-onexbox-revealWed, 22 May 2013 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Altered Beast 3D coming to eShop in Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/altered-beast-3d-coming-to-eshop-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/altered-beast-3d-coming-to-eshop-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/altered-beast-3d-coming-to-eshop-in-japan/#comments Altered Beast is about to wise fwom its gwave on 3DS. Sega has announced that Altered Beast 3D will arrive on the eShop next week in Japan, bringing with it several new features, according to Tiny Cartridge. Like the Japanese eShop re-release of Sonic the Hedgehog, Altered Beast 3D will include both the Japanese and western versions of the game, button remapping and an optional mode that emulates CRT monitors.

None of Sega's 3DS re-releases have been confirmed for a North American release, including Space Harrier, Super Hang-On, Sonic the Hedgehog and, now, Altered Beast. Tiny Cartridge does note, however, that Space Harrier was recently confirmed for Europe, so there may be hope the game will be added to North America's growing Sega eShop library.

JoystiqAltered Beast 3D coming to eShop in Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsaltered-beastaltered-beast-3deshopjapannintendoWed, 22 May 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Alan Wake series featured in Humble Weekly Sale]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/alan-wake-series-featured-in-humble-weekly-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/alan-wake-series-featured-in-humble-weekly-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/alan-wake-series-featured-in-humble-weekly-sale/#comments
Downtrodden horror author Alan Wake stars in the latest Humble Weekly Sale, which offers up downloadable Windows versions of Remedy's third-person shooter Alan Wake and its follow-up American Nightmare for a buyer-chosen price (minimum $1).

Bundle buyers will receive DRM-free downloads of Alan Wake: Collector's Edition and Alan Wake's American Nightmare, along with Steam keys for both games. The package features a bevy of bonus material, including digital comic books, a playthrough video, and standalone episodes of the Remedy-produced "Night Springs" fictional television series - new episodes of which Joystiq debuted last year.

Xbox Live hosts its own Alan Wake series sale this week. Through May 29, the Xbox 360 Games on Demand version of Alan Wake is priced at 400 Microsoft points ($5), while the Xbox Live Arcade follow-up American Nightmare is a dollar cheaper at 320 points. Alan Wake DLC and avatar items are also on sale through next week.

In the announcement video above, Remedy's Sam Lake (who you might recognize as Max Payne's face model) reveals that the Alan Wake series has sold over three million units to date, and addresses fan reaction to the company's decision to develop the upcoming Xbox One-exclusive title Quantum Break, rather than an Alan Wake sequel.

"We definitely want to keep on working on Alan Wake," Lake assures. "I definitely want to create something new for Alan Wake, when the time is right."

JoystiqAlan Wake series featured in Humble Weekly Sale originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Alan-Wakealan-wakes-american-nightmarebundlehumble-weekly-salemicrosoftpcremedysteamxboxWed, 22 May 2013 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Far Cry 3 map editor injected with Blood Dragon goodness]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/far-cry-3-map-editor-injected-with-blood-dragon-goodness/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/far-cry-3-map-editor-injected-with-blood-dragon-goodness/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/far-cry-3-map-editor-injected-with-blood-dragon-goodness/#comments Cheesy-awesome retro news today, as Ubisoft has announced the release of a Blood Dragon asset pack for the Far Cry 3 map editor. The "Mark IV Style" pack for the editor allows players to create levels with the same neon-drenched visuals as Far Cry 3: Blood Dragon (pictured).

The pack is available now for free on Xbox 360 and PS3. We haven't spotted it on either Steam or Uplay, but we're checking with Ubisoft regarding a PC release.

JoystiqFar Cry 3 map editor injected with Blood Dragon goodness originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcfar-cry-3far-cry-3-blood-dragonmicrosoftplaystationps3ubisoftxboxWed, 22 May 2013 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Best of PlayStation Network Vol. 1 coming to retail next month]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/best-of-playstation-network-vol-1-coming-to-retail-next-month/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/best-of-playstation-network-vol-1-coming-to-retail-next-month/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/best-of-playstation-network-vol-1-coming-to-retail-next-month/#commentsBest of PlayStation Network Vol 1 coming to retail next month A boxed retail collection of PlayStation Network titles will hit store shelves on June 25, bringing four games and a $40 price tag with it. Best of PlayStation Network Vol. 1, the first in a series of "Best of" releases according to the announcement, includes When Vikings Attack, Sound Shapes, Tokyo Jungle and Fat Princess.

No word on when Vol. 2 will follow or what games will be included with it, but for the time being this seems like a pretty legit way to save "nearly $15." Folks interested in internetless PlayStation Networking might also want to check out Journey's Collector's Edition, which is also a collection of acclaimed PSN games on physical caveman media for cavemen.

JoystiqBest of PlayStation Network Vol. 1 coming to retail next month originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best-of-playstation-networkbest-of-playstation-network-volume-1fat-princessplaystationps3PSNsound-shapestokyo-junglewhen-vikings-attackWed, 22 May 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox One requires Kinect connection]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/xbox-one-requires-kinect-connection/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/xbox-one-requires-kinect-connection/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/xbox-one-requires-kinect-connection/#commentsXbox One requires Kinect connection Owners of the original Kinect on Xbox 360 had the ability to unplug the device, but that won't be the case with the ever-vigilant and always-listening Xbox One version, Corporate VP of Microsoft Studios Phil Spencer told Joystiq.

"Kinect has to be connected to Xbox One," Spencer said. "That, from a creator standpoint, I love, because I like to have a common platform that I can target."

Spencer did take the opportunity to note that just because Kinect is always connected now, it doesn't mean Xbox One games are going to integrate physical activity at every opportunity.

"What I'm seeing in the creation process is more subtle uses of Kinect. I think when Kinect first came out on 360 everybody felt if you weren't doing jumping jacks in the middle of the room it wasn't a Kinect game," he said, going on to describe various everyday uses, such as watching television, for the product.

If you have concerns about Microsoft installing an always-on microphone and camera in your living room, better invest in a veil for the camera and some way of muffling Kinect's "ears." Owners of the next-gen console will need to accept Kinect is watching thee and there's little privacy.

JoystiqXbox One requires Kinect connection originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kinectmicrosoftxboxxbox-onexbox-revealWed, 22 May 2013 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox One will definitely be in used games market, details still blurry]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/xbox-one-will-definitely-be-in-used-games-market-details-still/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/xbox-one-will-definitely-be-in-used-games-market-details-still/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/xbox-one-will-definitely-be-in-used-games-market-details-still/#commentsXbox One will definitely be in used games market, details still blurry Microsoft isn't prepared to share how used games on Xbox One will be handled - which had adverse effects on retailer GameStop's stock price yesterday - but the company is definitely going to be in the market.

"We understand the secondary market is incredibly important today in the current generation. It will be incredibly important in the next generation," Phil Spencer, Microsoft Corporate VP of Microsoft Studios, said in an interview with us. "I love the fact that my identity, my saves and my content can go with me to any console I move to. The ability to have me and my content save in the cloud who I am, and I can move around, that obviously requires some capability to know what content you own, associated with you and how you move."

He also danced around the always-online issue, something that already caused one public firing at Microsoft.

"We also understand that sometime people's internet goes down and I shouldn't stop watching a movie or stop playing a single-player game when that happens. We'll support a tolerance where we can," he noted, but we were seeking specifics on how long the console could be offline. "You asked about the boundaries, how long will that work? I'll just tell you we don't know yet. We'll tell you when we have the answer and we can tell everybody. But we understand that secondary market is important to the ecosystem, no doubt."

Asked about the game trading that Microsoft previously mentioned, Spencer said, "Yeah, these are some of the specifics... honestly, I'm not really dodging, I just don't want to tell you something we haven't fully baked yet.

"We basically set this reveal up so we could show the hardware, announce the name, talk about worldwide launch this year, show EA and Activision on our stage during our announce - which I think was a pretty compelling point to have both - with their biggest franchises in FIFA and Call of Duty," he concluded the topic. "Then we're gonna use E3 to game, game, game."

JoystiqXbox One will definitely be in used games market, details still blurry originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>always-onmicrosoftused-gamesxboxxbox-onexbox-revealWed, 22 May 2013 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Madden 25 will let you move to 17 different cities, revive historic teams]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/madden-25-will-let-you-move-to-17-different-cities-revive-histo/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/madden-25-will-let-you-move-to-17-different-cities-revive-histo/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/madden-25-will-let-you-move-to-17-different-cities-revive-histo/#comments
In Madden 25's Connected Franchise career mode, players can take on the role of team owner and perform a number of new tasks, including relocating teams to new cities. Madden's Creative Director Mike Young told Joystiq today that the mode is designed to limit the franchise relocation option to 17 different markets. The 17 cities include Brooklyn, London, Dublin, Toronto, Mexico City, Los Angeles, Austin, Columbus, Orlando, Portland, Oklahoma City and Memphis.

Additionally, some locations with an already-established NFL presence can receive a second team, such as Chicago and Houston. Players will have the option to retain their team name, logo and uniforms when moving or select from three different preset options for each city, including the Brooklyn Beats. The mode also grants players the option to reboot now-defunct teams from the NFL's history, such as the Columbus Panhandles, London Monarchs or the Houston Oilers. Players can opt to turn off the team relocation feature, disabling the option entirely.

EA Sports provided us with a new trailer for the game in which Young discusses the move from Madden 13's Connected Careers mode to this year's Connected Franchise mode. Madden 25 will launch August 27 for PS3 and Xbox 360.

JoystiqMadden 25 will let you move to 17 different cities, revive historic teams originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>connected-franchiseeaEA-Sportsea-tiburonElectronic-Artsfootballmaddenmadden-25madden-nfl-25microsoftmike-youngplaybookplaystationproducer-videops3relocationteamtrailertrey-wingoxboxWed, 22 May 2013 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EA may be making Wii U games after all]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/ea-may-be-making-wii-u-games-after-all/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/ea-may-be-making-wii-u-games-after-all/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/ea-may-be-making-wii-u-games-after-all/#comments EA revealed some pretty significant news last week, with a spokesperson saying the company currently has no Wii U games in development. Now, it appears that EA may have some Wii U games in development after all, according to EA CFO Blake Jorgensen. The news comes by way of comments made by Jorgensen at the Stifel Nicolaus 2013 Internet, Media and Communications Conference.

"I'll let the consumers ultimately vote on PS versus Xbox," said Jorgensen, weighing in on the major console players. "I think Nintendo's business was more [an] extension of their last console. We are building titles for the Nintendo consoles but not anywhere near as many as we are for PS or Xbox." Jorgensen's comments would seem to indicate that EA is, in fact, still developing Wii U titles, though it's possible he's referring to the slate of already available games.

If there are Wii U games in development at EA, it's hard to say what they might be. The publisher has definitively stated that many of its biggest 2013 games are not planned for Wii U, including Battlefield 4, Madden 25 and, most recently, FIFA 14. We've contacted EA to see if we can clear things up.

JoystiqEA may be making Wii U games after all originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic-artsnintendowii-uWed, 22 May 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Don Mattrick: 'If you're backwards compatible, you're really backwards']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/don-mattrick-if-youre-backwards-compatible-youre-really-bac/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/don-mattrick-if-youre-backwards-compatible-youre-really-bac/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/don-mattrick-if-youre-backwards-compatible-youre-really-bac/#commentsDon Mattrick 'If you're backwards compatible, you're really backwards' The Xbox One won't play Xbox 360 discs or XBLA games, and that doesn't really bother Microsoft Head of Interactive Entertainment Business Don Mattrick.

"If you're backwards compatible, you're really backwards," he told the Wall Street Journal.

Mattrick said only 5 percent of customers play games from previous generations on new consoles, so spending time to make that possible isn't worth it. Sony's PlayStation 4 isn't backward compatible from a hardware standpoint, but with cloud service Gaikai, it should offer a way to play games from the PS3 and older consoles.

It's been eight years since the previous generation transition, meaning players have had longer than ever to build up their libraries. That's a lot to lose - and even more so with the onset of downloadable games in the middle of this generation.

JoystiqDon Mattrick: 'If you're backwards compatible, you're really backwards' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backward-compatiblebackwards-compatibilitydon-mattrickmicrosoftxboxxbox-onexbox-revealWed, 22 May 2013 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Metro: Last Light gets season pass, first DLC in June]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/metro-last-light-puts-season-pass-in-the-spotlight-first-dlc-i/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/metro-last-light-puts-season-pass-in-the-spotlight-first-dlc-i/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/metro-last-light-puts-season-pass-in-the-spotlight-first-dlc-i/#comments Metro: Last Light developer 4A Games is planning to release four different content packs throughout the summer, all bundled together today in a season pass available on Xbox Live, PSN and Steam for 1200 MS Points ($15).

The Faction and Chronicle packs are the first listed, each aimed at continuing the single-player story of Metro: Last Light. Faction is due first, in June. The Tower pack will be aimed at Metro veterans, offering "a unique solo challenge." Finally, the Developer pack aims to offer some additional tools aiding in exploration. All season pass purchases will also unlock an exclusive semi-automatic shotgun rifle, while each piece of DLC will be available for individual purchase.

Metro: Last Light launched on May 14, with our review placing it in the company of another story-driven shooter, Half-Life. The game was originally set to be published by THQ, but after the studio's fall Deep Silver came in and acquired the game.

Continue reading Metro: Last Light gets season pass, first DLC in June

JoystiqMetro: Last Light gets season pass, first DLC in June originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4a-gamesdeep-silverdlckoch-mediametro-2033-last-lightmetro-2034metro-last-lightmicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxWed, 22 May 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[1 vs 100-style game shows possible on Xbox One]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/1-vs-100-style-game-shows-possible-on-xbox-one/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/1-vs-100-style-game-shows-possible-on-xbox-one/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/1-vs-100-style-game-shows-possible-on-xbox-one/#comments While no such thing is planned for the Xbox One launch window later this year, Microsoft Studios VP Phil Spencer isn't ruling out the possibility of video game shows like 1 vs 100 for the Xbox One.

Microsoft learned "a ton" from 1 vs 100 about bringing "hundreds of thousands of people together in a virtual game environment and have them play with each other and give away real prizes," Spencer told OXM. "I think that's a category that lends itself to our kind of community and interactivity," but he added no such thing would likely make launch. "We'll see how our timelines go."

1 vs 100 was a big hit with the Joystiq staff when it launched in 2010. 1 vs 100 was a weekly free game show played through Xbox Live at a specific time, where contestants could win real prizes. Microsoft pulled the plug in July of that year, though ex-host Chris Cashman was kind enough to produce a goodbye video of sorts.

Joystiq1 vs 100-style game shows possible on Xbox One originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1-vs-100game-showskinectmicrosoftphil-spencerxboxxbox-livexbox-onexbox-revealWed, 22 May 2013 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live video, music purchases will transfer to Xbox One]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/xbox-live-video-music-purchases-will-transfer-to-xbox-one/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/xbox-live-video-music-purchases-will-transfer-to-xbox-one/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/xbox-live-video-music-purchases-will-transfer-to-xbox-one/#commentsXbox Live video, music purchases will transfer to Xbox One Video and music purchased through the Xbox Live Marketplace will transfer to the Xbox One for storage and playback, Microsoft corporate vice president Phil Harrison confirmed to Polygon.

Harrison noted the cross-platform media compatibility when asked about the Xbox One's reported inability to play Xbox 360 discs and downloaded games. "Actually, to be clear music, movies, television will [transfer]," Harrison said. "All that comes across. Anything that you've acquired from Xbox Video or Xbox Music will move across."

Currently, Xbox Live Marketplace movie, television, and music purchases are playable across an individual user's Xbox 360, PC, and tablet and smartphone devices.

JoystiqXbox Live video, music purchases will transfer to Xbox One originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftxboxxbox-livexbox-live-marketplacexbox-onexbox-revealWed, 22 May 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ignite won't power FIFA 14 on PC; Xbox One trailer was pre-rendered]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/ignite-wont-power-fifa-14-on-pc-xbox-one-trailer-was-pre-rende/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/ignite-wont-power-fifa-14-on-pc-xbox-one-trailer-was-pre-rende/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/ignite-wont-power-fifa-14-on-pc-xbox-one-trailer-was-pre-rende/#commentsFIFA 14 doesn't use Ignite on PC Ignire trailer used prerendered graphics FIFA 14 on PC won't use Ignite, the new engine EA Sports announced at yesterday's Xbox One conference. Ignite will power FIFA 14 on Xbox One and PS4, EA Sports Global Communications Manager Steve Frost told Joystiq.

"Ignite will be the engine that drives our sports games on PS4 and Xbox One," Frost said. "It will not be used for FIFA 14 on PC."

Ignite also runs Madden NFL 25, EA Sports UFC and NBA Live 14, as EA Sports said on the Xbox One stage - right before it showed off pre-rendered footage of all of these games.

"The video uses assets pulled directly from the in-game engines, and was rendered to create this first look multi-product trailer," Frost said. "It's representative of where we expect our games will be when they launch."

EA Communications Specialist Brad Hilderbrand promised us a closer look at Ignite at E3.

"Yes, given the timing and planning required for the Xbox One reveal event the EA Sports Ignite video was developed in a pre-rendered video format," Hilderbrand said. "We'll be showing off the game using in-game assets at E3."

JoystiqIgnite won't power FIFA 14 on PC; Xbox One trailer was pre-rendered originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EA-Sportsea-sports-ufcfifa-14igniteignite-enginemadden-nfl-25Microsoftnba-live-14pre-renderxbox-onexbox-revealWed, 22 May 2013 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[A.N.N.E. Kickstarter concludes at over $100,000]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/a-n-n-e-kickstarter-concludes-at-over-100-000/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/a-n-n-e-kickstarter-concludes-at-over-100-000/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/a-n-n-e-kickstarter-concludes-at-over-100-000/#comments
After clearing its $70,000 goal more than a week in advance, the A.N.N.E. Kickstarter has concluded at $100,272. The total is enough to unlock three of ANNE's stretch goals, namely Mac & Linux versions, gender swap mode and achievements, and New Game+. While stretch goals for Ouya, PSN/Vita and Wii U versions were not met, creator Moise "Mo" Breton promised in a previous update that these versions will still be made, though it will take longer.

Mo, whom we interviewed back in April, also posted an inspirational thank you video on YouTube, which retells the whole experience and, more importantly, heavily features his adorable children. "From now on, it's all about making the game," said Mo, thanking supporters for allowing him to develop full-time. He is planning to make monthly updates throughout development. ANNE is planned to launch in early to mid 2014.

JoystiqA.N.N.E. Kickstarter concludes at over $100,000 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>annegamesbymokickstartermacpcWed, 22 May 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox One marketplace won't have separate XBLA, XBLIG channels]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/xbox-one-marketplace-wont-have-separate-xbla-xblig-channels/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/xbox-one-marketplace-wont-have-separate-xbla-xblig-channels/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/xbox-one-marketplace-wont-have-separate-xbla-xblig-channels/#commentsXbox One marketplace won't have separate XBLA, XBLIG channels Xbox One will not have separate sections for indie or download-only games, such as Xbox Live Indie Games and Xbox Live Arcade on the 360 - instead, Microsoft's new console will feature games, and "just games," Microsoft Corporate Vice President Phil Harrison told Eurogamer.

"In the past we had retail games which came on disc, we had Xbox Live Arcade and we had Indie Games, and they had their own discrete channels or discrete silos," Harrison said. "With Xbox One and the new marketplace, they're games. We don't make a distinction between whether a game is a 50-hour RPG epic or whether it is a puzzle game or whether it is something that fits halfway between the two."

In this new approach, indie games, AAA games and everything in-between will co-exist in the same "Games" marketplace. Harrison said this will solve discoverability problems that indie games face today, and Microsoft will still be able to highlight titles that it thinks players should pay attention to.

"We don't give up the ability to put a spotlight on the products that we think are going to be exciting to our user base, but in addition to that, what your friends are playing, what other people think is hot in your area, your country, your continent, will propagate up the most interesting and exciting games," Harrison said.

The Xbox One "Games" tab will feature game recommendations and trends, and will have catalog and search functions. The entire system is a blend of curated and popular games, Harrison said. Microsoft will maintain its current strategy with indie developers, meaning indies won't be able to self-publish their games on Xbox One, as they can on PS3, Vita, Wii U, Steam, and eventually, the PS4.

JoystiqXbox One marketplace won't have separate XBLA, XBLIG channels originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>IndiemarketplacemicrosoftXBLAxbligxboxxbox-onexbox-revealWed, 22 May 2013 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft: No cross-platform play between Xbox One and Xbox 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/microsoft-no-cross-platform-play-between-xbox-one-and-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/microsoft-no-cross-platform-play-between-xbox-one-and-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/microsoft-no-cross-platform-play-between-xbox-one-and-xbox-360/#commentsMicrosoft No crossplatform play between Xbox One and Xbox 360 Don't expect any cross-platform play between Xbox 360 and Xbox One. That's what Microsoft Xbox UK marketing manager Harvey Eagle confirmed to Videogamer.

"Because of the different architecture of the systems it's not possible. Your Xbox Live account on 360 will carry over to Xbox One. That same account will work on both platforms. The multiplayer won't," Eagle told Videogamer. The Xbox 360 is built on PowerPC architecture, while the Xbox One utilizes an x86 chipset - so no purchased games will transfer to the new system.

The Xbox One was announced by Microsoft yesterday during its Redmond campus Xbox reveal event. The Xbox One is due to launch later this year. Xbox Live profiles and corresponding Achievements on Xbox 360 will carry over to Xbox One, which also bumps up the friends limit to 1,000.

JoystiqMicrosoft: No cross-platform play between Xbox One and Xbox 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cross-platform-playkinectmicrosoftpowerpcx86xboxxbox-360xbox-livexbox-onexbox-revealWed, 22 May 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavy Gear Assault kicks off its crowdfunding campaign]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/heavy-gear-assault-kicks-off-its-crowdfunding-campaign/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/heavy-gear-assault-kicks-off-its-crowdfunding-campaign/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/heavy-gear-assault-kicks-off-its-crowdfunding-campaign/#comments
Stompy Bot Productions and Mektek Studios have launched their Kickstarter project for Heavy Gear Assault, the return of the mech combat game originally introduced by Dream Pod 9, with later games published by Activision.

The multiplayer e-sports-focused, Unreal Engine 4-powered game is in development for PC and will be free-to-play with premium subscriptions options available for players. The development team is seeking $800,000 by June 29, with a dozen stretch goals already planned for the funding project.

JoystiqHeavy Gear Assault kicks off its crowdfunding campaign originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crowdfundinge-sportsfree-to-playheavy-gearheavy-gear-assaultkickstartermechmektek-studiospcstompy-bot-productionsWed, 22 May 2013 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox One won't let indies self-publish]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/xbox-one-wont-allow-indies-to-self-publish/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/xbox-one-wont-allow-indies-to-self-publish/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/xbox-one-wont-allow-indies-to-self-publish/#comments
Microsoft didn't have anything to say to smaller independent developers during its Xbox One announcement. Such studios might have been hoping for bigger news from the company's E3 press conference, but it looks like there out of luck. Unlike the PS3, Vita, Wii U and, soon, the PS4, indie devs will not be able to self-publish their games on Xbox One, reports Shacknews.

Matt Booty, general manager of Redmond Game Studios and Platforms, told the site that Microsoft will "continue to court developers in the ways that we have." He did add that the company will "explore new business models and new ways of surfacing content," but ultimately concluded that "Microsoft Studios is a publisher that works with a wide range of partners, as do a lot of other people, to bring digital content to the box."

Currently, the only way self-publish on the Xbox 360 is via Xbox Live Indie Games. While the niche channel has seen a few successful developers, most see greater success on other platforms like Steam and PSN. Furthermore, the XBLIG service is stagnating according to some developers, and its future remains unclear.

JoystiqXbox One won't let indies self-publish originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>indiemicrosoftxbligxboxxbox-oneWed, 22 May 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead or Alive 5 Ultimate adds Ein, Virtua Fighter's Jacky Bryant]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/dead-or-alive-5-ultimate-adds-ein-virtua-fighters-jacky-bryant/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/dead-or-alive-5-ultimate-adds-ein-virtua-fighters-jacky-bryant/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/dead-or-alive-5-ultimate-adds-ein-virtua-fighters-jacky-bryant/#commentsDead or Alive 5 Ultimate adds Ein, Virtua Fighter's Jacky Bryant Joining Ninja Gaiden's Momiji as new characters in Dead or Alive 5 Ultimate are Ein and Jacky Bryant, the latter from the Virtua Fighter series. As revealed in the latest issue of Famitsu (via Siliconera and Game Jouhou), the spiky-haired racer gels with the other combatants when the PS3 and Xbox 360 game hits Japan on September 5.

The Ultimate version of DoA 5 is confirmed to arrive in the west this fall, both at retail and on digital platforms.

JoystiqDead or Alive 5 Ultimate adds Ein, Virtua Fighter's Jacky Bryant originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-or-alive-5dead-or-alive-5-ultimatemicrosoftplaystationps3team-ninjatecmo-koeixboxWed, 22 May 2013 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mortal Kombat: Komplete Edition konfirmed for PC in July]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/mortal-kombat-komplete-edition-konfirmed-for-pc-in-july/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/mortal-kombat-komplete-edition-konfirmed-for-pc-in-july/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/mortal-kombat-komplete-edition-konfirmed-for-pc-in-july/#commentsMortal Kombat Komplete Edition konfirmed for PC in July The Komplete Edition of the 2011 Mortal Kombat finishes Windows PC this summer, with the digital distributed fatality pinned for July 3. Retail annihilation is due a month later, so duck and cover on August 2 in Europe, and on August 6 in North America.

As per the version released for consoles last year, Komplete Edition features all the game's DLC, with the expanded roster including a certain Freddy Kreuger (the regular creepy kind), Kenshi, Scarlet, and Rain. Conduit and Kinect Star Wars developer High Voltage Games, who've just released the "addictive" puzzler Zoombies for iOS, is handling the PC port.

Continue reading Mortal Kombat: Komplete Edition konfirmed for PC in July

JoystiqMortal Kombat: Komplete Edition konfirmed for PC in July originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>high-voltage-gamesmortal-kombat-2011Netherrealm-Studiospcrelease-datewarner-broswarner-bros-interactivewbieWed, 22 May 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Crytek's Ryse confirmed for Xbox One]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/cryteks-ryse-confirmed-for-xbox-one/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/cryteks-ryse-confirmed-for-xbox-one/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/cryteks-ryse-confirmed-for-xbox-one/#comments Crytek's 'Kinect-enhanced' brawler Ryse is exclusive to the Xbox One. The game, previously confirmed as exclusive to Xbox platforms, is revealed for the Xbox One by a countdown on Crytek's site, which is set to end on June 10 - that happens to match up with E3 time.

The countdown also features the year 2013 in Roman numerals, perhaps pointing to the game being released this year for the new console. A blurb on the countdown reads, "Fight as a soldier. Lead as a general. Rise as a Legend," and the game is described as "controller-based gameplay enhanced by Kinect."

We'll have more details on Ryse for Xbox One as we learn them.

JoystiqCrytek's Ryse confirmed for Xbox One originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crytekmicrosoftrysexboxxbox-onexbox-revealWed, 22 May 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Next-gen Kinect coming to PC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/next-gen-kinect-coming-to-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/next-gen-kinect-coming-to-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/next-gen-kinect-coming-to-pc/#comments Microsoft says it's bringing the newly unveiled next-gen Kinect to PC as well as the Xbox One. The company disclosed its plans to Polygon and Shacknews. Microsoft Corporate VP of Interactive Entertainment Business Ben Kilgore told Polygon the device will come to PC "at some point down the line," while Kinect Program Manager Scott Evans told Shacknews Microsoft will have "more information soon."

The new Kinect features a 1080P HD RGB camera, 30 FPS color, Time of Flight technology, and microphone arrays. It has a greater sense of depth and field of view compared to the original Kinect, and thanks to infrared tech it can see in the dark. Microsoft showed us how the sensor can track two player profiles, each tied to a controller, and also demonstrated how it can estimate players' heart rates.

Each Xbox One ships with the device. The console launches later this year.

JoystiqNext-gen Kinect coming to PC originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kinectkinect-2microsoftpcxboxxbox-onexbox-revealWed, 22 May 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EA to show Star Wars plans at E3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/ea-to-show-star-wars-plans-at-e3/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/ea-to-show-star-wars-plans-at-e3/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/ea-to-show-star-wars-plans-at-e3/#comments In an E3 conference not so far away, EA will offer a first look at its upcoming Star Wars games. The ink has barely dried on the exclusive contract with Disney in the wake of LucastArts' demise, but with next-gen consoles around the corner, it's no surprise EA is keen to offer a glimpse of what's to come.

The news was spilled on EA's The Beat blog by Labels President Frank Gibeau, who name-checked Battlefield 4, EA Sports games, and the Need for Speed franchise as part of the company's E3 showcase of next-gen games.

Around the time the post went up, Need for Speed's Facebook page uploaded a new screenshot (below the break) of what's very likely the next game in the racing series. The shot was tagged with the description "Have no rules, show no mercy."

The screenshot completely negates any possibility of it, but we're gonna call it anyway. At E3 next month, prepare to meet Need for Hyperspeed. You heard it here first.

Continue reading EA to show Star Wars plans at E3

JoystiqEA to show Star Wars plans at E3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>disneye3-2013eaneed-for-speedstar-warsWed, 22 May 2013 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox One, PS4 game box art appears on Battlefield 4 site]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/xbox-one-game-box-art-appears-on-battlefield-4-site/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/xbox-one-game-box-art-appears-on-battlefield-4-site/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/xbox-one-game-box-art-appears-on-battlefield-4-site/#commentsXbox One, PS4 game box art appears on Battlefield 4 site Are these the designs for Xbox One and PS4 game covers? The images come via the official Battlefield 4 site, where they're pictured prominently on a couple of pages. They may just be EA mock-ups - no other companies, including Microsoft and Sony, have released any images - but maybe they are the real deal. We reckon they look elegantly crisp.

JoystiqXbox One, PS4 game box art appears on Battlefield 4 site originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-4box-artEAmicrosoftplaystationps4sonyxboxxbox-onexbox-revealWed, 22 May 2013 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CryEngine 3 already runs on Xbox One]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/cryengine-3-already-runs-on-xbox-one/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/cryengine-3-already-runs-on-xbox-one/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/cryengine-3-already-runs-on-xbox-one/#commentsCryEngine 3 already runs on Xbox One Crysis has thrown its card into the hat of today's Xbox One announcements, to say that CryEngine 3 does indeed run on Microsoft's new console. The company is already licensed to provide middleware and tools for Xbox One, which means that any developers looking to use CryEngine 3 to make their games will have no problem running the code on the new box.

There are a number of titles already announced for the Xbox One, but nothing using CryEngine 3 just yet. Don't weep, though; We're sure to hear about something soon.

Continue reading CryEngine 3 already runs on Xbox One

JoystiqCryEngine 3 already runs on Xbox One originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cryenginecryengine-3crysiscrysis-3enginehomefront-2microsofttechnologyxboxxbox-onexbox-revealWed, 22 May 2013 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft: 'Only Xbox One controllers, accessories will work with the new console.']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/microsoft-only-xbox-one-controllers-accessories-will-work-wit/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/microsoft-only-xbox-one-controllers-accessories-will-work-wit/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/microsoft-only-xbox-one-controllers-accessories-will-work-wit/#commentsXbox One doesn't support 360 controllers, Kinect, maybe other accessories Microsoft confirmed to Joystiq only Xbox One controllers and accessories are supported by the new console. The new system won't support the Xbox 360 controller or Xbox 360 Kinect. When approached, a Microsoft spokesperson provided us with the following statement:
"Xbox One was designed from the ground up with entirely new technology to deliver a new generation of experiences for both games and entertainment For example, the Wireless Controller will connect to the console using high speed data transfer to enable higher fidelity headset audio and future controller add-on experiences that are not possible with Xbox 360 wireless technology. Additionally, the all-new Kinect sensor's ability to locate the wireless controller is dependent on new technology. In order for Xbox One to deliver robust, meaningful gaming scenarios for all users across all experiences, only Xbox One controllers and accessories will work with the new console."
Microsoft previously confirmed to Polygon and Engadget the Xbox One won't support the Xbox 360 controller or Xbox 360 Kinect respectively. Neither is surprising, given Microsoft's new system has a redesigned controller and a next-gen edition of the Kinect sensor.

However, while it isn't explicitly said, Microsoft's statement seems to indicate the Xbox One won't support any Xbox 360 accessories. When asked on Twitter if the new system supports Xbox 360 headsets, Xbox Support reiterated the statement we received, saying, "Only Xbox One accessories will work with Xbox One, which helps us deliver better headset audio and other benefits."

JoystiqMicrosoft: 'Only Xbox One controllers, accessories will work with the new console.' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoriescontrollerkinectmicrosoftxboxxbox-onexbox-revealWed, 22 May 2013 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii U 3.0.1 system update released]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/wii-u-3-0-1-system-update-released/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/wii-u-3-0-1-system-update-released/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/wii-u-3-0-1-system-update-released/#comments Nintendo released what looks like a minor system update for the Wii U this week, and it's available to download now. Going by the patch notes, 3.0.1 U offers "further improvements to overall system stability and software compatibility."

We've downloaded the update and can't see any obvious changes. Maybe the Wii U just wanted to make itself heard over the clamor of a certain other box.

JoystiqWii U 3.0.1 system update released originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nintendosystem-updatewii-uWed, 22 May 2013 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Skullgirls to beat down Japanese arcades]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/skullgirls-to-beat-down-japanese-arcades/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/skullgirls-to-beat-down-japanese-arcades/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/skullgirls-to-beat-down-japanese-arcades/#commentsSkullgirls to beat down Japanese arcades Skullgirls, the little fighting game that could, just keeps on chugging. The magazine image above was discovered by NeoGAF, showing Skullgirls listed for release in Japanese arcades (7th from the bottom). That's a very big deal for an independently developed American fighting game. Developer Lab Zero Games acknowledged as much on NeoGAF, with studio head Peter "Ravidrath" Bartholow confirming the news saying, "We are stupidly excited for this, just because I can't think of a single other non-Japanese dev that can say they have a game out in Japanese arcades."

He added that a Japanese company is handling the port. Furthermore, the game will be out "as soon as possible," and the recently crowd-funded DLC characters will be added in future updates.

JoystiqSkullgirls to beat down Japanese arcades originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>japanlab-zero-gamesskullgirlsWed, 22 May 2013 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Slant Six worked on Medal of Honor PS Vita game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/rumor-slant-six-worked-on-medal-of-honor-ps-vita-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/rumor-slant-six-worked-on-medal-of-honor-ps-vita-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/rumor-slant-six-worked-on-medal-of-honor-ps-vita-game/#commentsSlant Six linked to canned Medal of Honor Vita game

At one point, Slant Six Games was apparently working on a Medal of Honor game for PS Vita. Some concept art for the game showed up over on an artist's portfolio site, spotted by the @supererogatory Twitter account.

Medal of Honor: Warfighter was the latest entry in the Medal of Honor series, developed by EA's Danger Close studio. Following that game's poor reception, EA's Peter Moore announced the franchise is now "out of the rotation."

Slant Six Games' last release was the lackluster Resident Evil: Operation Raccoon City for Capcom - a spin-off that takes place during the outbreak of Raccoon City, first seen in Resident Evil 2. In April, Slant Six Games issued temporary layoffs, a stopgap measure to help keep interim operating costs down in-between contract work. Slant Six issued similar layoffs in 2010 and after shipping RE: Operation Raccoon City last year.

JoystiqRumor: Slant Six worked on Medal of Honor PS Vita game originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eamedal-of-honormedal-of-honor-warfighterplaystationplaystation-vitaslant-six-gamesvitaWed, 22 May 2013 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dying: Sinner Escape absconding to Vita, iOS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/dying-sinner-escape-absconding-to-vita-ios/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/dying-sinner-escape-absconding-to-vita-ios/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/dying-sinner-escape-absconding-to-vita-ios/#comments The Vita and iOS devices are set to receive a new dose of horror courtesy of Dying: Sinner Escape. The game is being made with help from the creator of Saw, according to developer Nekcom Entertainment, though the announcement neglects to name exactly which creator it's referring to. Neither Saw's director, James Wan, nor its screenwriter, Leigh Whannell, are mentioned specifically.

Regardless, Dying clearly has a Saw vibe. It's story revolves around characters being trapped in foreboding environments, forcing them to solve strange puzzles and try to escape. The game will be released episodically with the first episode, "Last Hour," slated to arrive on May 25.

Gallery: Dying: Sinner Escape

JoystiqDying: Sinner Escape absconding to Vita, iOS originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 May 2013 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dying-sinner-escapeiosipadiphonemobilenekcom-entertainmentplaystationplaystation-vitasawvitaTue, 21 May 2013 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[PSN Tuesday - Ratchet: Deadlocked, Call of Juarez: Gunslinger]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/psn-tuesday-ratchet-deadlocked-call-of-juarez-gunslinger/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/psn-tuesday-ratchet-deadlocked-call-of-juarez-gunslinger/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/psn-tuesday-ratchet-deadlocked-call-of-juarez-gunslinger/#commentsPSN Tuesday Ratchet Deadlocked, Call of Juarez Gunslinger This week's PlayStation Store update brings the release of Techland's first-person shooter Call of Juarez: Gunslinger, along with an upgraded, HD version of Insomniac Games' PlayStation 2 platformer Ratchet: Deadlocked.

PS Vita owners can opt for the budget-priced janitor sim Men's Room Mayhem or the Cross-Buy enabled tower defense game Ratchet & Clank: Full Frontal Assault, which includes a free copy of the PlayStation 3 version with purchase. Reminder: Ratchet: Deadlocked is available as a free download for players who purchased the retail PlayStation 3 version of Full Frontal Assault.

Pinball Arcade and Germinator headline this week's PlayStation Plus update, and subscribers also have access to discounts for ten DLC-bundled Ultimate Edition titles.

The full list of this week's store additions is available on the PlayStation Blog.

JoystiqPSN Tuesday - Ratchet: Deadlocked, Call of Juarez: Gunslinger originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 May 2013 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>call-of-juarez-gunslingerplaystationplaystation-vitaps3psn-tuesdayratchet-and-clank-full-frontal-assaultratchet-deadlockedvitaTue, 21 May 2013 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox One's live TV features coming to North America first, everyone else later]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/xbox-ones-live-tv-features-coming-to-north-america-first-every/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/xbox-ones-live-tv-features-coming-to-north-america-first-every/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/xbox-ones-live-tv-features-coming-to-north-america-first-every/#commentsHIT NEXT Xbox One's live TV stuff to begin in NA, roll out elsewhere later Microsoft has announced that the live TV features coming to its newly revealed Xbox One will first be available in North America, and then will then transition into other regions after that. In a press release from the company, Microsoft noted that "live TV with Kinect Navigation, live TV with OneGuide, Trending, and NFL on Xbox" will all roll out in the US "at launch," but was "anticipating global scale over time."

Microsoft also said that the Xbox One will require a separate cable box, specifying "at launch," so it's possible that the console maker has other plans to deliver television content. The Xbox One is set for release later on this year, and Microsoft has not yet revealed a price.

Continue reading Xbox One's live TV features coming to North America first, everyone else later

JoystiqXbox One's live TV features coming to North America first, everyone else later originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 May 2013 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contentlive-tvmicrosoftnfl-on-xboxoneguidetelevisiontvxboxxbox-onexbox-revealTue, 21 May 2013 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox One interface shots show Netflix, Hulu, other streaming apps]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/xbox-one-interface-shots-show-netflix-hulu-other-streaming-app/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/xbox-one-interface-shots-show-netflix-hulu-other-streaming-app/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/xbox-one-interface-shots-show-netflix-hulu-other-streaming-app/#comments While no one explicitly named any streaming media applications during Microsoft's Xbox One reveal ceremony, screenshots have emerged on the new console's official site that give us a hint at what we'll be watching on day one.

So far, apps listed include such staples as Netflix, Hulu Plus and HBOgo, in addition to slightly more esoteric offerings such as Crackle and The CW. Microsoft has yet to specifically name any of these apps during today's flurry of announcements, however, so we're keeping an ear to the ground for further confirmation and (hopefully) information on other streaming media apps launching with the system.

Continue reading Xbox One interface shots show Netflix, Hulu, other streaming apps

JoystiqXbox One interface shots show Netflix, Hulu, other streaming apps originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 May 2013 20:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cracklehbo-gohbogohuluhulu-plusmicrosoftnetflixstreamingthe-cwxboxxbox-onexbox-revealTue, 21 May 2013 20:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox One's Kinect discerns heartbeat and who has the controller]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/xbox-ones-kinect-discerns-heartbeat-and-who-has-the-controller/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/xbox-ones-kinect-discerns-heartbeat-and-who-has-the-controller/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/xbox-ones-kinect-discerns-heartbeat-and-who-has-the-controller/#comments The Xbox One's next-generation Kinect has a greater interest in your facial features, and is capable of discerning your identity, even if you hand off the controller.

In a brief demonstration in one of its Kinect testing rooms, Microsoft showed press how the Kinect kept track of two player profiles, each tied to a controller in use. When Player 1 and Player 2 swap controllers, the Xbox One is able to recognize which profile is the new Player 1. The Kinect also monitors the position of players, meaning it can match portions of split-screen games to the side of the screen at which that player is looking. This may also translate to fighting games, which is good news if you're the sort to get confused when your spot in the couch isn't aligned with your character.

Microsoft also demonstrated a few more tricks made possible by the new Kinect's enhanced sense of depth, its greater field of view - which does make closer gaming in smaller apartments a more feasible - its ability to see in the dark via infrared, and its flattering scrutiny of facial features. By examining your face's skin color and transparency, the Kinect and Xbox One are able to estimate your current heart rate. Whether or not someone puts that information to good use in Kinect games or fitness programs is another matter, as we've learned from Nintendo's flatlined "vitality sensor."

Valve has experimented with biometric data in games too, adjusting game difficulty, objectives and timers in response to the player's physical state. With a Kinect shipping alongside every Xbox One, and assuming the camera is relatively accurate, biometric influence over gameplay may become less esoteric in the near future.

Gallery: Xbox One (Official shots)

JoystiqXbox One's Kinect discerns heartbeat and who has the controller originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 May 2013 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biometricskinectmicrosoftxboxxbox-onexbox-revealTue, 21 May 2013 20:15:00 EST<![CDATA[GameStop stock takes hit following Xbox One used game story]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/gamestop-stock-takes-hit-following-xbox-one-used-game-story/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/gamestop-stock-takes-hit-following-xbox-one-used-game-story/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/gamestop-stock-takes-hit-following-xbox-one-used-game-story/#commentsImage Microsoft's plans for the used games market on the newly announced Xbox One were a roller coaster ride this afternoon, with GameStop being the one to lose its lunch on the ride. The company's stock started an immediate dip once the news began to circulate that the console wouldn't support used games, closing the day down five percent (down -1.98 to 36.78/share).

Microsoft issued a statement after the market's close regarding Wired's report, stating the news wasn't accurate, but wouldn't detail exactly how the information was incorrect.

"It doesn't help Microsoft to block, and will alienate consumers. They should stay out of the controversy," said Wedbush Security analyst Michael Pachter who attended today's reveal of the new console at the Microsoft campus. "It is a dumb idea for Microsoft to get involved."

He continued, "They could just as easily invalidate a download if the same disc is subsequently downloaded to another Xbox One, and the seller of the game wouldn't complain. The article reaches a conclusion without foundation, and was irresponsible."

As of this posting it's still unclear what Microsoft's plans are for the used games market. GameStop's pre-owned video game products represented $2.4 billion in sales, representing 27.4 percent of the company's income and $1.1 billion (48.1 percent) of company's gross profit in its previous fiscal year.
[Image: nuttapol yupothong via Shutterstock]

JoystiqGameStop stock takes hit following Xbox One used game story originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 May 2013 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamestopmicrosoftxboxxbox-onexbox-revealTue, 21 May 2013 19:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox One pre-orders, info lists live via Game, Amazon, Microsoft Store]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/xbox-one-pre-orders-info-lists-live-via-game-amazon-microsoft/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/xbox-one-pre-orders-info-lists-live-via-game-amazon-microsoft/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/xbox-one-pre-orders-info-lists-live-via-game-amazon-microsoft/#commentsXbox One preorders already happening at Amazon, M$ and GAME We don't know when it's coming out, but the Xbox One is available for pre-order at European retailers Game and Zavvi. It's also up for "pre-order notifications" on Amazon, the Microsoft Store, GameStop and Best Buy. Best Buy's ad lists the Xbox One with a "holiday 2013" release window, though all we know officially is that it's coming "later this year."

Game lists a pre-order holding price of £20 for the Xbox One, while Zavvi's pre-order down payment is £400. Zavvi also has a lineup of Xbox One games for £50, including Call of Duty: Ghosts and four EA Sports games.

Continue reading Xbox One pre-orders, info lists live via Game, Amazon, Microsoft Store

JoystiqXbox One pre-orders, info lists live via Game, Amazon, Microsoft Store originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 May 2013 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonBest-Buygamegamestopmicrosoftmicrosoft-storepre-orderxboxxbox-onexbox-revealzavviTue, 21 May 2013 19:15:00 EST