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[Analysts consider dance genre 'bubble,' Ubisoft says more 'The Experience' games possible]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/25/analysts-consider-dance-genre-bubble-ubisoft-says-more-the-e/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/25/analysts-consider-dance-genre-bubble-ubisoft-says-more-the-e/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/25/analysts-consider-dance-genre-bubble-ubisoft-says-more-the-e/#comments Ubisoft's Just Dance and its successful clones like Michael Jackson: The Experience, along with Harmonix's Dance Central, have established the dance genre as a viable market for milking. Now the industry must play the delicate game of sucking the marrow dry without creating a zombie.

Gamasutra hit up go-to industry analysts Michael Pachter and Jesse Divnich for their takes on the sustainability of the genre. Both analysts essentially characterized dance games as part of a bubble that is largely unaffected by critical reception (UK hit Zumba Fitness has a 43 on Metacritic). "In short, yes, the dance category is a bubble," said Divnich, "much like most things in entertainment."

That doesn't mean that the bubble is about to burst -- or that the bottle of suds is close to empty. At least, Ubisoft is planning to keep on dipping in. The publisher's Tony Key teased that Michael Jackson: The Experience is "just the first 'The Experience' brand." He added that there's no reason why "another artist can't make a great dance game under 'The Experience brand,'" but didn't pitch any bright ideas. The Smurfs, anyone?

JoystiqAnalysts consider dance genre 'bubble,' Ubisoft says more 'The Experience' games possible originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Apr 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analystsbubbledancedance-centralgamasutrajesse-divnichjust-dancejust-dance-2michael-jackson-the-experiencemichael-pachtermicrosoftnintendowiixboxMon, 25 Apr 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Analysts explain, critique Guitar Hero's demise]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/11/analysts-explain-critique-guitar-heros-demise/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/11/analysts-explain-critique-guitar-heros-demise/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/11/analysts-explain-critique-guitar-heros-demise/#comments Man, these analysts get a whiff of blood and you just can't pull them off the corpse, huh? Formerly beloved franchise Guitar Hero has been dead all of a couple of days, and these jackals are already baring their fangs on Gamasutra and digging in:

"It had a great run, but it also had a steep fall and the customer demand just isn't there. That money can be spent on something that has better returns." -- Damn, Eric Handler of MKM Partners, you need to take it easy.

"Prudent." -- Hey Michael Pachter, where's your basic human decency?

"Declining sales as well as a less appealing profitability profile owing to the inclusion of a lower-margin peripheral hastened the decision to cancel the project." -- You, Edward Williams of BMO Capital Markets, are a monster.

... What's that? You're still not sated? You're no better than them! Here, vulture, go bask in the brutality for yourself.

JoystiqAnalysts explain, critique Guitar Hero's demise originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 Feb 2011 10:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionanalystsdsguitar-heroguitar-hero-ripmacmicrosoftmobilenintendopcplaystationps3pspsonywiixboxFri, 11 Feb 2011 10:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Verizon iPhone has devs, analysts excited by increased audience]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/11/verizon-iphone-has-devs-analysts-excited-by-increased-audience/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/11/verizon-iphone-has-devs-analysts-excited-by-increased-audience/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/11/verizon-iphone-has-devs-analysts-excited-by-increased-audience/#comments As expected, Verizon announced today that it would become the second US company to carry Apple's iPhone on its service, finally offering an alternative to AT&T, which up until now has had an iron grip on the popular device. Game developers are thrilled at the prospect of a whole new audience for a platform so friendly to mobile games, with some analysts and devs predicting mobile gaming revenue could double as soon as the end of this year.

Of course, devs are aware that there could be some issues, both with bringing scads of new customers onto the platform as well as transferring some customers from AT&T over to Verizon. But on the whole, they're giddy with optimism -- analysts are saying that as many as 13 million new iPhones could be sold on the Verizon service, and each one of those is a potential new customer for iOS developers.

JoystiqVerizon iPhone has devs, analysts excited by increased audience originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Jan 2011 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analystsapplegamesgamingiosiphonemobilemobile-gamingrevenuesverizonTue, 11 Jan 2011 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Analysts weigh in on Panasonic's Jungle]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/06/analysts-weigh-in-on-panasonics-jungle/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/06/analysts-weigh-in-on-panasonics-jungle/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/06/analysts-weigh-in-on-panasonics-jungle/#commentsFiled under: , ,

New tech does not always equal gimme gimme -- according to several prominent analysts, Panasonic is set to engage in quite the uphill battle with its new handheld, The Jungle. Both Bill Pidgeon of M2 Research and David Cole of DFC Intelligence told IndustryGamers they believe the unit is "a non-starter."

Colin Sebastian of Lazard Capital Markets said it looks like "an uphill challenge to launch a new portable gaming device unless there is some meaningful differentiation or access to proprietary content," while EEDAR's Jesse Divnich offered that its success hinges on third-party support, saying that, "with any hardware platform regardless of its quality, the absence of strong third-party support will most certainly end in failure." All valid points, but should these guys be giving the device the benefit of the doubt?

As it stands right now, we don't know much about the system other than what it aims to do: give MMO players a dedicated piece of hardware so they can take their games on the go. Given how popular MMOs are (and, in turn, how much of the cash money they generate), from a business standpoint it would seem win-win; nobody else is offering something to MMO players who may want a bit of portability. But, on the other hand, the problem is -- at least according to these analysts -- that the handheld doesn't particularly fill a void that can't be filled by a netbook or laptop.

JoystiqAnalysts weigh in on Panasonic's Jungle originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analystanalystsbill-pidgeoncolin-sebastiandavid-coledfc-intelligenceeedarjesse-divnichjunglelazard-capital-marketsm2-researchmobilepanasonicpanasonic-junglepcthe-jungleWed, 06 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Analysts sound off on 3DS price and release date announcement]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/30/analysts-sound-off-on-3ds-price-and-release-date-announcement/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/30/analysts-sound-off-on-3ds-price-and-release-date-announcement/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/30/analysts-sound-off-on-3ds-price-and-release-date-announcement/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Over the past 24 hours, select members of the gaming industry peanut gallery have sounded off on Nintendo's recently announced launch plans for the 3DS. Many in the investment community balked at the high price and later-than-expected launch window, including Lazard Capital Markets' Colin Sebastian, who worries "shipment quantities to the U.S. next spring might be more constrained than originally anticipated." MF Global FXA Securities' Jay Defibaugh explained that those two qualms, combined with the devices apparent lack of 3G support, made the announcement a "worst-case scenario."

Though many analysts appear to share these concerns, EEDAR, which expects the handheld to come to the US in March 2011 at $249 to $299, disagrees. "The higher price point allows Nintendo to incorporate new features such as 3D movies, camera, and game support," EEDAR noted in a report received by Joystiq yesterday, later adding, "a 2010 Holiday launch would severely impact both the quantity and quality of titles that could be made available by November 2010."

Wedbush Morgan analyst Michael Pachter predicts that the market will bear the relatively high price of the handheld, though he expects the cost to drop to $250 when it arrives in the U.S.. For more of Pachter's predictions for Nintendo's western 3DS launch plans, check out our interview with the outspoken analyst.

JoystiqAnalysts sound off on 3DS price and release date announcement originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Sep 2010 10:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsanalystscolin-sebastiandseedarindustrymichael-pachternintendoThu, 30 Sep 2010 10:50:00 EST<![CDATA[GameStop misses earnings target, used games make up biggest profits]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/20/gamestop-misses-earnings-target-used-games-make-up-biggest-prof/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/20/gamestop-misses-earnings-target-used-games-make-up-biggest-prof/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/20/gamestop-misses-earnings-target-used-games-make-up-biggest-prof/#commentsFiled under: , ,

[Image by moe_ on Flickr]
Despite 99 new stores, continued strong used game sales and better performance than the rest of the retail video game industry, GameStop reported less-than-expected earnings for this year's second quarter, and delivered a fall forecast lower than analysts expected. Analysts were looking for $1.82 billion in sales this past quarter, but apparently the $1.8 billion GameStop earned in actual sales (31.4 percent of which came from used game sales) just wasn't good enough.

Additionally, GameStop executives tried to convince analysts that they'd actually be saving money by spending $10 on a membership card and subscription to Game Informer, but analysts weren't interested, claiming that "all they wanted was to play Red Dead Redemption." Further attempts to sell the card also failed, despite assurances of 10 percent off used game purchases in the future.

JoystiqGameStop misses earnings target, used games make up biggest profits originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Aug 2010 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analystsearningsforecastgamestopq2-2010used-gamesFri, 20 Aug 2010 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Roundup: Analyst commentary on Kinect pricing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/20/roundup-analyst-commentary-on-kinect-pricing/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/20/roundup-analyst-commentary-on-kinect-pricing/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/20/roundup-analyst-commentary-on-kinect-pricing/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Kinect retail box
Everybody has an opinion at the moment about Kinect's $150 price tag, but let's hear what the analysts who get paid for their opinions think. We've got reactions from EEDAR's Jesse Divnich, Lazard's Colin Sebastian and Wedbush Morgan's Michael Pachter, after the break.

Continue reading Roundup: Analyst commentary on Kinect pricing

JoystiqRoundup: Analyst commentary on Kinect pricing originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Jul 2010 13:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AnalystAnalystscolin-sebastianEEDARJesse-DivnichKinectlazard-capital-marketsMichael-PachtermicrosoftpricingWedbush-MorganxboxTue, 20 Jul 2010 13:32:00 EST<![CDATA[DJ Hero sales 'modest,' analyst says; Activision refuses to comment]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/03/dj-hero-sales-modest-analyst-says-activision-refuses-to-comm/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/03/dj-hero-sales-modest-analyst-says-activision-refuses-to-comm/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/03/dj-hero-sales-modest-analyst-says-activision-refuses-to-comm/#comments
Lazard Capital Markets analyst Colin Sebastian told Gamasutra that, while the gaming industry is currently "stable," sales figures of Activision's critically-lauded DJ Hero look to be only "modest" in the US -- an understatement in the UK. Continuing the pricing trend of peripheral-based titles, DJ Hero retails for $120 for its standard edition and $200 for its premium, "Renegade" edition. According to Sebastian, consumers are "showing price sensitivity" toward games with price points greater than $100.

In recent history, the trend of peripheral-based releases has fallen short of sales expectations. Internet-famous Wedbush Morgan analyst Michael Pachter -- along with others in the field of "professional guessing" -- recently halved holiday sales predictions for Guitar Hero 5 and The Beatles: Rock Band; after both fell short of initial sales predictions.

According to Cowen Group analyst Doug Creutz, the falling projections of peripheral games reflect both the casual consumer's decision to reduce spending on games, as well as the possibility that gamers are losing interest in the played-out rhythm genre.

When contacted by Joystiq, Activision refused to comment on the matter. With no less than three new rhythm titles on the horizon, we presume publishers hope the trend of sluggish peripheral-based game sales comes to a screeching halt; like the days of disco music and, apparently, outlining the objectives of major marketing campaigns.

JoystiqDJ Hero sales 'modest,' analyst says; Activision refuses to comment originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionanalystscolin-sebastiandj-herolazard-capital-marketsMicrosoftNintendosalessales-predictionsWiiXbox-360Tue, 03 Nov 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[iPhone beats Wii, DS, PSP: 'fastest hardware growth in consumer tech history']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/23/iphone-beats-wii-ds-psp-fastest-hardware-growth-in-consumer/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/23/iphone-beats-wii-ds-psp-fastest-hardware-growth-in-consumer/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/23/iphone-beats-wii-ds-psp-fastest-hardware-growth-in-consumer/#comments If you wonder why analysts love the iPhone, wonder no longer! Those rascally number crunchers just love to make bold proclamations and Apple's iPhone / iPod Touch ecosystem allow them to do just that. Let's start with Mary Meeker, internet analyst at Morgan Stanley, who told the Web 2.0 Summit crowd yesterday that the iPhone and iPod Touch (which share a common software platform) exhibited the "fastest hardware user growth in consumer tech history"! Don't believe her? Check out that chart. Those numbers even make the DS look pedestrian.

Couple Meeker's research with DFC Intelligence analyst David Cole's assertion that the iPhone and iPod Touch devices will be the "primary drivers of mobile game market sales over the coming years" and you've got what those of us in the biz call "consensus."

Still think it's not a real gaming platform?

JoystiqiPhone beats Wii, DS, PSP: 'fastest hardware growth in consumer tech history' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 Oct 2009 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analystsAppleDavid-ColeiPodiPod-TouchMary-MeekerFri, 23 Oct 2009 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Analyst: DS and PSP growth 'peaked,' iPhone to drum future growth]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/23/analyst-ds-and-psp-growth-peaked-iphone-to-drum-future-growt/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/23/analyst-ds-and-psp-growth-peaked-iphone-to-drum-future-growt/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/23/analyst-ds-and-psp-growth-peaked-iphone-to-drum-future-growt/#comments
DFC Intelligence analyst David Cole thinks that Nintendo and Sony devices will still lead the handheld market by 2014, but that the iPhone/iPod Touch will drive growth, thanks to a little thing called the App Store. IndustryGamers took note of the new report, where the analyst believes that the worldwide mobile and portable games market will reach $11.7 billion by 2014, which includes the PSP and DS, with Apple's devices pushing 24 percent of software sales.

The company found that of over 8,000 surveyed respondents, 54 and 69 percent of North Americans and Europeans, respectively, had played a game on their phone in the last year. The report found that the the most popular service for purchasing apps for their phone was Apple's App Store -- shocking, right?

JoystiqAnalyst: DS and PSP growth 'peaked,' iPhone to drum future growth originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 Oct 2009 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analystsApplebusinessdavid-coledfcdfc-intelligenceDSiPodNintendoFri, 23 Oct 2009 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Analysts split on chance of slimmer Xbox 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/24/analysts-split-on-chance-of-slimmer-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/24/analysts-split-on-chance-of-slimmer-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/24/analysts-split-on-chance-of-slimmer-xbox-360/#comments When the first Xbox got old, Microsoft gave it Old Yeller treatment, though the metaphor would be more accurate if the beleaguered mutt had been forcibly stuffed into a rocket and shot into the sun. Some analysts think the 360 may get a kinder treatment later in its life cycle with a new form factor in the vein of Sony's new slim PS3.

"I think it is a question of when not if. However, the when part is a big uncertainty ... rumors have been going on for a long time. I think people were asking me the same question last year at this time," David Cole of DFC Intelligence told IndustryGamers. Others are less convinced, like Arvind Bhatia of Sterne Agee who said, "It would be nice but I don't think they have to. I think Natal will be killer app that will help keep the momentum for the 360 next year. I do think they need to cut the price by at least $50."

So, since the analysts can't seem to agree, we thought we'd put the question to you, the readers:

View Poll

JoystiqAnalysts split on chance of slimmer Xbox 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analystsMicrosoftps3-slimXbox-360xbox-360-slimMon, 24 Aug 2009 12:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Analysts: US game sales slump to continue until second half of '09]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/21/analysts-us-game-sales-slump-to-continue-until-second-half-of-09/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/21/analysts-us-game-sales-slump-to-continue-until-second-half-of-09/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/21/analysts-us-game-sales-slump-to-continue-until-second-half-of-09/#comments
The go-to game industry analysts see the downward sales in March as a trend that could continue over the next several months. Wedbush Morgan's Michael Pachter notes that hardware sales were down 19 percent year-over-year and he doesn't see a reversal of software sales in the "near term." Lazard Capital's Colin Sebastian is concerned that the industry continues to see sales "concentrated among a small group of top-tier software publishers and first-party platform holders." He believes this leaves little room for ... well, anyone else in the near future.

Both gurus see the second half of the year working out better for the industry. Edge notes that US industry sales have hit $4.25 billion during the first quarter, the same place they were during 2008's record-breaking year.
[Image]

JoystiqAnalysts: US game sales slump to continue until second half of '09 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Apr 2009 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analystanalystscolin-sebastianeconomymichael-pachternpdrecessionTue, 21 Apr 2009 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Analyst: Canceling Tiberium hurt EA's credibility]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/08/analyst-canceling-tiberium-hurt-eas-credibility/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/08/analyst-canceling-tiberium-hurt-eas-credibility/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/08/analyst-canceling-tiberium-hurt-eas-credibility/#commentsFiled under:


Talking with Gamasutra about EA's recent decision to abandon development on Tiberium, Janco Partners analyst Mike Hickey believes such a move could actually hurt EA's credibility in the long run.

"Continued lack of management execution and/or product quality, damages new management's credibility and dampens our excitement for the company's shares," said Hickey who also expects EA to lower their fiscal year performance expectations. But all analysts don't agree with that assessment, as Wedbush Morgan analyst Michael Pachter predicts that the Tiberium cancellation actually adds credibility to the company saying that "canceling a bad game goes a long way toward preserving the quality of the overall lineup."

What say you? Has your opinion of EA changed for the better or for the worse with their decision to axe Tiberium?

[Via Gamesindustry.biz]

JoystiqAnalyst: Canceling Tiberium hurt EA's credibility originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Oct 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analystseatiberiumWed, 08 Oct 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Analyst says Nintendo could fire first next-gen shot]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/analyst-says-nintendo-could-fire-first-next-gen-shot/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/analyst-says-nintendo-could-fire-first-next-gen-shot/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/analyst-says-nintendo-could-fire-first-next-gen-shot/#commentsFiled under:

We haven't cut Lazard Capital Markets analyst Colin Sebastian's picture out of Analyst Tiger Beat to tape onto our lockers yet, as unfamiliar as we are with his services. So take it with a grain of salt when we tell you that Sebastian thinks Nintendo's next console may release sooner than the others and could be a souped-up Wii with DVD playback capabilities.

...Yeah, that kind of seems like a gimme, but Nintendo has proven itself a notoriously hard company to predict. Let's just say that if he nails this ... we might be able to make some space for his mug between the Jonas Brothers and Billy Pidgeon.

JoystiqAnalyst says Nintendo could fire first next-gen shot originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Aug 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analystscolin-sebastiannext-gennintendoWiiTue, 26 Aug 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Analysts: Xbox 360 outsold PS3 in July]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/11/analysts-xbox-360-outsold-ps3-in-july/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/11/analysts-xbox-360-outsold-ps3-in-july/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/11/analysts-xbox-360-outsold-ps3-in-july/#commentsFiled under: ,

Prior to the release of the official July NPD video game sales numbers that are set to come out this Thursday, the gaming industry's best analysts have released their console sales predictions and things are looking peachy for Microsoft and the Xbox 360.

Analysts Michael Pachter and Jesse Divnich both agree that, after a bad June, the Xbox 360's July hardware sales will overtake the Playstation 3 thanks to the announcement of the 60GB Xbox 360 and low price of the 20GB model. Pachter is pegging the 360 to have sales in the 275K range compared to the PS3's 250K, while Divnich is a bit more 360 optimistic setting July 360 sales at 325K compared to the PS3's 275K. Whatever July's NPD numbers end up being, we have a feeling that our analyst friends will be correct and the 360 will have had a decent July. Pass the champagne!

JoystiqAnalysts: Xbox 360 outsold PS3 in July originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Aug 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analystsmicrosoftpachterplaystation-3ps3sonyxbox-360Mon, 11 Aug 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Analysts predict big jump in May game sales]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/11/analysts-predict-big-jump-in-may-game-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/11/analysts-predict-big-jump-in-may-game-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/11/analysts-predict-big-jump-in-may-game-sales/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Even though NPD is set to release its monthly drip of "official" North American console and game sales data later this week, some impatient people just can't sit on their hands and wait. Those people include game industry analysts, many of whom are predicting a large year-over-year jump in software revenues for the month of May.

The exact size of the predicted jump ranges from a 30% increase from Lazard Capital Market's Colin Sebastian to a 43% bump from Pacific Crest Securities analyst Evan Wilson. Medbush Morgan's prolific prognosticator Michael Pachter splits the difference, predicting a 39% increase in sales. Call of Duty 4, Guitar Hero III and Rock Band are expected to continue their sustained strong sales, along with relative newcomers Wii Fit, Mario Kart Wii and Grand Theft Auto IV.

Speaking of GTA4, Pachter doesn't think the game will lead to a significant bump in system sales for either the PS3 or Xbox 360. He forecasts the Wii will again dominate monthly console sales with 750,000 units sold, compared to 250,000 Xbox 360s and 225,000 PS3s. In other news, we predict the sun will rise in the east tomorrow.

JoystiqAnalysts predict big jump in May game sales originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Jun 2008 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analystanalystsconsole warsConsoleWarsNPDpachterpredictionsPS3WiiXbox-360Wed, 11 Jun 2008 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Analyst: PS3 to outsell 360 by more than 2:1 by 2012]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/22/analyst-ps3-to-outsell-360-by-more-than-2-1-by-2012/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/22/analyst-ps3-to-outsell-360-by-more-than-2-1-by-2012/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/22/analyst-ps3-to-outsell-360-by-more-than-2-1-by-2012/#commentsFiled under: ,


It is always so much fun to post the thoughts of industry analysts. No matter what the topic, there are guaranteed to be comments regarding A) what an easy job analysts have and B) how nothing analysts say comes true. Honestly, analyst posts are fun for all ages. The latest analytical blatherskite holds that the Playstation 3 will have won the console war by 2012. Specifically, according to CNET, IDC analyst Billy Pidgeon claims that by 2012 the PS3 will have moved a whopping 107 million units. The Xbox 360? By 2012, Pidgeon predicts Microsoft will have sold just over 40 million units. In other words, the PS3 will grow exponentially year over year, whereas the 360 will grow at a much more tepid pace.

The reason: market perception. Analyst extraordinaire Michael Pachter gave his two cents, noting that Microsoft has "an image issue." Essentially, the 360, according to Pachter, is perceived as a console for hardcore gamers only, whereas the PS3 (and more specifically Sony) is perceived as family friendly. Aaron Greenberg, 360 product manager, naturally disagrees, noting that the Xbox 360 has more million-selling titles than either the Wii or PS3 and that the 360 has "the largest game lineup, and the most exclusive titles."

Continue reading Analyst: PS3 to outsell 360 by more than 2:1 by 2012

JoystiqAnalyst: PS3 to outsell 360 by more than 2:1 by 2012 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 22 May 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analysisanalystanalystsbusinessThu, 22 May 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Analyst: US software sales up 70% in April]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/13/analyst-us-software-sales-up-70-in-april/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/13/analyst-us-software-sales-up-70-in-april/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/13/analyst-us-software-sales-up-70-in-april/#commentsFiled under:


With NPD results for April due out this Thursday, it's time for all the analysts to jump into the prediction pool. Pachter already got his out the door, now it's time for Lazard Capital's Colin Sebastian. GameDaily reports that Sebastian believes software sales for April will be up 70% year-to-year, thanks to GTA IV and Mario Kart Wii.

Sebastian predicts that although the PS3 and Xbox 360 received a strong hardware sales bump from GTA IV, the PS3 has another one incoming with Metal Gear Solid 4 in June. He states that it's hard to determine what sales in the second half of 2008 look like compared to 2007, but believes the summer months (weak for revenue, even just a few years back) will continue to see strong retail numbers with Wii Fit, Rock Band Wii, MGS4 and movie-based games. Who needs to go outside? There's just sun cancer out there.

JoystiqAnalyst: US software sales up 70% in April originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 May 2008 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analystanalystscolin-sebastianlazardlazardcapitalmarketssebastianTue, 13 May 2008 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Analysts expect PS3 to benefit most from GTA IV]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/25/analysts-expect-ps3-to-benefit-most-from-gta-iv/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/25/analysts-expect-ps3-to-benefit-most-from-gta-iv/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/25/analysts-expect-ps3-to-benefit-most-from-gta-iv/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Oh, great, another Grand Theft Auto IV story. This one's about some analysts who believe the PlayStation 3 stands to gain the most following the release of Rockstar's go-anywhere, shoot-anybody romp. Though both the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 are certain to experience a surge in sales upon the game's April 29 release, Michael Pachter tells Reuters that Sony's system will be the winner in this battle.

He's joined by Edward Williams, from BMO Capital Markets, who suspects fans will want to keep their crime shenanigans in the family. "So many people who owned the PS2 went into PlayStation family because of 'GTA', he explains. "The release of 'GTA4' could expedite their decision to upgrade." That isn't to say that brand loyalty will overpower Microsoft's hand, as the manufacturer can still count on the Xbox 360's exclusive downloadable content and bigger install base.

IDC analyst Billy Pidgeon (who's no longer unstuck in time, it seems) notes, "Online is such a strong part of the game and Microsoft has done such a great job of developing the online community, so for people who own multiple consoles, they will buy it for the 360." So, Microsoft wins the software struggle, Sony overcomes its hardware hardships and Rockstar has a rollicking good laugh to the bank. Oh, and we get to play Grand Theft Auto IV. We're all winners here!

[Pictured: Europe's Grand Theft Auto IV PS3 bundle.]

JoystiqAnalysts expect PS3 to benefit most from GTA IV originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 Apr 2008 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AnalystsGrand-Theft-AutoGrand-Theft-Auto-IVGTA-4GTA-IVPS3RockstarXbox-360Fri, 25 Apr 2008 15:59:00 EST<![CDATA[How accurate are your favorite video game analysts?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/18/how-accurate-are-your-favorite-video-game-analysts/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/18/how-accurate-are-your-favorite-video-game-analysts/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/18/how-accurate-are-your-favorite-video-game-analysts/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Man, being a video game analyst must be a sweet job. You can put out all sorts of crazy predictions and no one will ever call you on it if you end up being wrong, right? Well, yes, right, until today, because today Kotaku has completed a massive project to rank the truthiness of predictions from some of the most prominent video game industry analysts out there.

The results show that even the best prognosticators out there aren't all that infallible -- Michael Pachter, Jeetil Patel and Mitshuhiro Osawa all top out the scale at 60% correct. That might not sound so good, but it looks absolutely glowing when compared to Billy Pidgeon's dismal 10% truthfulness rating (with 20% still to be determined). Want to avoid his ignominious fate? Just be like Piers Harding-Rolls and predict stuff so far into the future no one can tell how accurate your calls are until you've moved on to used car sales or something.

The full piece takes an interesting look behind the scenes in analyst-land and provides some good reasons to be cautious of all those stories with headlines that start with "Analyst predicts ..." Do yourself a favor, take a few minutes and give it a read.

JoystiqHow accurate are your favorite video game analysts? originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Feb 2008 16:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analystanalystsanalyzekotakupachterpredictpredictionsPS3rankingsWiiXbox-360Mon, 18 Feb 2008 16:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Analysts: Board games are the next big thing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/11/analysts-board-games-are-the-next-big-thing/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/11/analysts-board-games-are-the-next-big-thing/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/11/analysts-board-games-are-the-next-big-thing/#commentsFiled under:


Gamasutra got a cadre of analysts together to look into crystal balls, read tea leaves, and guess what the next big breakout genre will be following the rhythm game's ascension with Guitar Hero and Rock Band. The analysts' guess? The board game. Yes, the humble board game put on a TV (or in the case of Scene It?, being tweaked a bit) is what the group thought would be the next über genre.

Jesse Divnich of simExchange believes that Scene It?, which released last month, will be a "moderate success" and Ben Bajarian of Creative Strategies uses the term "social gaming" to describe this genre of titles. He says that families are still looking for a "board game" to play together, with the natural evolution being to do so on a console. It probably doesn't hurt their hypothesis that the board games we've seen translated to consoles so far (Scene It?, Carcassonne, Catan) have been very effective. With any luck, European games like Alhambra and Puerto Rico will become digital experiences to be enjoyed by those who missed out on them in America. Oh, and would someone get on Scotland Yard and Café International, please?

JoystiqAnalysts: Board games are the next big thing originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Dec 2007 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analystsboard-gamesboardgamesgamasutraTue, 11 Dec 2007 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Analysts see a brighter future for PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/03/analysts-see-a-brighter-future-for-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/03/analysts-see-a-brighter-future-for-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/03/analysts-see-a-brighter-future-for-ps3/#commentsFiled under:

It's taken awhile, but business analysts are now confident in Sony's future. The past few months have been a great turnaround for Sony, with a successful new ad campaign, new marketable price point, and selection of great exclusives and multplatform titles. So, what does the future hold? A lot. 2008 is going to be a great year for Sony, and analysts can agree.

Hiroshi Kamide from KBC Securities said Sony is "making up lost ground ... Going forward another 12 months or so I'm sure we'll see better titles turning up as well." Could some of those titles include Killzone 2, Metal Gear Solid, and LittleBigPlanet? Macquarie Security's David Gibson added, "It's certainly a sign that the momentum of the PS3 business is improving ... The PS3 and the games business is past the worst in terms of financial losses and the sales momentum is improving because of the price cut and the new model."

There are even more titles to look forward to for Sony's black box next year. Certainly, the tides are changing. PS3 may not become "number one" next year, but it's certainly going to be a much better year for Sony fans.

JoystiqAnalysts see a brighter future for PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 03 Dec 2007 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analystanalystsps3sonyMon, 03 Dec 2007 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Analysts: Microsoft in the wake of Bungie, BioWare and Bizarre changes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/23/analysts-microsoft-in-the-wake-of-bungie-bioware-and-bizarre-c/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/23/analysts-microsoft-in-the-wake-of-bungie-bioware-and-bizarre-c/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/23/analysts-microsoft-in-the-wake-of-bungie-bioware-and-bizarre-c/#commentsFiled under: ,


Now that developers Bungie, BioWare and Bizarre are now either independent or owned by well-known multi-platform publishers, where does that leave the Xbox 360 considering each of those studios had a strong relationship with the console? GameDaily spoke with a couple of leading analysts in the industry to get their ideas on how these studios going in a different direction will impact the console that benefited from their commitment. Analysts, sound off:
  • Mike Hickey, Janco Partners: "We anticipate MSFT will have ample opportunity to sign exclusive agreements with independent developers who are not necessarily willing to devote significant resources to the development of PS3 games."
  • Michael Pachter, Wedbush Morgan Securities: "I understand the logic that says that EA and Activision won't allow exclusives, but for a price they will. Remember, GTA was always a PS2 exclusive, and it was a third-party title. Also Metal Gear will be a third-party exclusive for PS3, so where there is a checkbook, there's a way. ... The only first party loss is Bungie, and I think Microsoft has gotten itself a first look at all future Bungie products. Remember, Microsoft "owned" the Bungie name, and gave it back to the studio. There must have been some quid pro quo, and I'd bet it's a limited exclusive on future content."
  • David Cole, DFC Intelligence: "One thing that Microsoft could do better is general marketing outside of just for titles that start with the name Halo. Microsoft is fairly cheap on the marketing side and often seems to save it all up for a big title like Gears of War or Halo 3. I think they should be more consistent around all their products."
  • Todd Greenwald, Nollenberger Capital Partners: "I don't think it's that big a problem for the 360. I think it may actually be a result of the strength and large installed base of the 360. With the significant installed base lead over the PS3, Microsoft no longer needs 1st party studios to be assured of premium content. The 360 installed base is too big for publishers to ignore now."
With the Xbox 360's impressive attach rate, it would seem the system is still the place for third-party developers -- although there are arguments that the attach rate is a bad thing. What we do know is that Microsoft still has the right of first refusal on Bungie games and BioWare's Mass Effect is still an Xbox 360 exclusive. And unless the PS3 starts picking up sales in '08 and perceptions change with the Wii, it appears the Xbox 360 will still be the place for third-party developers over the next couple years.

JoystiqAnalysts: Microsoft in the wake of Bungie, BioWare and Bizarre changes originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Oct 2007 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analystsattachratethirdpartydeveloeprsXbox-360xbox360Tue, 23 Oct 2007 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Analyst says Take-Two on right path]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/26/analyst-says-take-two-on-right-path/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/26/analyst-says-take-two-on-right-path/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/26/analyst-says-take-two-on-right-path/#commentsFiled under:


Janco Partners analyst Mike Hickey thinks that Take-Two is ready to show investors the money. Hickey says that Take-Two's management turnaround is working well and that higher than expected sales of BioShock and the release of Manhunt 2 will be good for their fourth quarter. Things should only improve next year with GTA IV and Mafia 2.

Then Hickey brings on the crystal ball part. Hickey says that he thinks Take-Two will bring BioShock to PS3, PS2, Wii and handhelds in the company's 2009 fiscal year. Although the PS2, Wii and handheld versions will clearly not be up to the standards of the BioShock we know, the PS3 version would be nice. The whole idea seems unlikely given current information, but if it's all happening a year or two from now it seems plausible. BioShock could always do the exclusivity on a platform for a bit and then transfer over, Take-Two got very good at doing that with Grand Theft Auto back in the day. The real question is if BioShock II ends up being exclusive? There's much money to be made by the return to Rapture.

JoystiqAnalyst says Take-Two on right path originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 Sep 2007 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analystsbusinessfinancejancotake-twotaketwoWed, 26 Sep 2007 13:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Analysts: 360 sales going up, will outsell PS3 through holidays]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/24/analysts-360-sales-going-up-will-outsell-ps3-through-holidays/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/24/analysts-360-sales-going-up-will-outsell-ps3-through-holidays/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/24/analysts-360-sales-going-up-will-outsell-ps3-through-holidays/#commentsFiled under: ,


Oh, analysts. Always predicting such crazy things. Who doesn't love 'em? Why, just recently they predicted that the PS3 would outsell the Xbox 360 in July. Now that the July NPD numbers are out, we know that turned out not to be true, but that doesn't mean we aren't frothing at the mouth to hear the next prediction. Having seen that the 360 still managed to outsell Sony's wonder machine, Wedbush Morgan analyst Michael Pachter expressed his surprise to Gamasutra, noting that "Xbox 360 demand was far stronger than we expected this month." He further noted that he had expected sales to decline on news of the Xbox 360's apparent reliability problems and the PS3 price reduction. Seeing that such wasn't the case, Pachter predicts that Xbox sales will increase, as "the warranty issue appears to be of little concern to consumers, and the recent price cut should stimulate demand." The fantasy game exchange market simExchange agreed with Pachter's predictions, and further noted that they expect the Xbox 360 to outsell the PS3 "every month through the holidays." The group based this prediction on their own predicted lifetime sales of the PS3 and Xbox 360.

[Thanks, LunarDuality]

JoystiqAnalysts: 360 sales going up, will outsell PS3 through holidays originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Aug 2007 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analystsbusinessconsolewarssalesFri, 24 Aug 2007 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[All about industry analysts on Bonus Round]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/06/all-about-industry-analysts-on-bonus-round-someone-edit-and-pub/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/06/all-about-industry-analysts-on-bonus-round-someone-edit-and-pub/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/06/all-about-industry-analysts-on-bonus-round-someone-edit-and-pub/#commentsFiled under: ,

Everyone's favorite Wedbush-Morgan analyst, Michael Pachter, joins IDC's Billy Pidgeon for this weeks episode of Bonus Round, focusing on video game analysts. Throughout their interview with Geoff Keighley, one thing is made abundantly clear: they're not doing their job for us, the players, but for the serious investors out there.

That said, the question that seems to pop up every time their comments filter their way through the media is, "Why should we listen to them in the first place?"

Michael Pachter says, "Nobody should listen to me on my opinion about anything." That would be a legendary quote right there, but Pachter continues, "... Except whether one of the companies I cover is going to meet or miss an earnings estimate and how they're going to perform going forward." Curses. You win this round, Pachter! Insightful as well as educational, it's another episode of Bonus Round worth checking out.

JoystiqAll about industry analysts on Bonus Round originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 Aug 2007 10:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Rock Band and Bethesda parties were crazy last night -- and everyone is ready to go back to work this morning. The analysts who look into their crystal ball and tell us the future seem to be liking Rock Band, the next game from Harmonix. This morning, outside the EA room at LeMerigot, a cluster of analysts were talking and one mentioned the game, "Rock Band, I was watching them play. This guy, on the drums, I mean, you have to be good."

JoystiqOverheard@E3: Analysts like Rock Band originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Jul 2007 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analystse3e307partyPS3rock bandXbox-360Thu, 12 Jul 2007 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Euro Xbox 360 sales hitting a wall, PS3 price drop 'inevitable']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/20/report-euro-xbox-360-sales-hitting-a-wall-ps3-price-drop-inev/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/20/report-euro-xbox-360-sales-hitting-a-wall-ps3-price-drop-inev/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/20/report-euro-xbox-360-sales-hitting-a-wall-ps3-price-drop-inev/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

A recent report from research company Screen Digest asserts that the Xbox 360's European sales have "hit a wall" and are being constricted by a target market that is "too focused on adult males." The report, as detailed by GamesIndustry.Biz, suggests that sales will continue to suffer as Microsoft struggles to "break out of a small number of genres" in an attempt to capture the attention of a wider audience (perhaps one swayed by the likes of Beautiful Katamari?). Still, the Xbox Live service is labeled as a "beacon of hope," and many of the most anticipated titles in the year's fourth quarter are attached to the Xbox 360.

On the topic of the PlayStation 3, Screen Digest reportedly criticizes Sony for relying too much on the PlayStation brand and being unclear about the features offered by the system. The report predicts an "inevitable" price refinement drop before the end of the year, one "in line with previous PlayStation first time price reduction timings," going on to suggest that Sony dropping the price in tandem with the launch of Home would be quite the "bombshell."

As for the Wii, Screen Digest believes that Nintendo's wildly successful console is splitting business models within the industry, resulting in some publishers quickly releasing mediocre titles and riding Nintendo's coat tails all the way to the bank. Other publishers, however, are realizing that the "lower development costs and fastest growing installed base confers significant economic advantages in publishing games for Wii relative to competitive consoles." Provided the games don't involve the hunting of men, that is.

[Via Xbox 360 Fanboy]

JoystiqReport: Euro Xbox 360 sales hitting a wall, PS3 price drop 'inevitable' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Jun 2007 20:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Analyst reportsAnalystReportsAnalystsMicrosoftNintendoPS3ReportsSonyWiiXbox-360Wed, 20 Jun 2007 20:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Analysts: DS to have 89% Japanese install base by 2011]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/14/analysts-ds-to-have-89-japanese-install-base-by-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/14/analysts-ds-to-have-89-japanese-install-base-by-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/14/analysts-ds-to-have-89-japanese-install-base-by-2011/#commentsFiled under:

An analyst group called Screen Digest is predicting continued success for the DS in the future. We do the same thing, but when they do it, they use specific numbers, and people believe them. Their craziest number? They are saying that in the distant future of 2011, 89% of Japanese households will own a DS.

They predict that by 2011, the DS will have an install base of 112 million systems worldwide, versus the PSP's 67 million. To put that in perspective, the Playstation sold 102 million units, the GBA has sold 79 million, and the NES sold 61 million. We personally hope the DS continues to dominate, because we love our jobs the system.

JoystiqAnalysts: DS to have 89% Japanese install base by 2011 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Jun 2007 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011analysisanalystanalystsbusinessdsinstallinstall baseInstallBasenintendonintendo dsNintendoDssalesThu, 14 Jun 2007 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Analysts say shortages could last all year]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/29/analysts-say-shortages-could-last-all-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/29/analysts-say-shortages-could-last-all-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/29/analysts-say-shortages-could-last-all-year/#commentsFiled under:

Will you inconsiderate jerks stop buying Wiis already? You're totally making it hard to find them in stores. Think of the children!

Okay, we would never really say that. We love you all. We were just trying a new strategy to help alleviate the continuing Wii shortages. We may need some kind of tactic, because analysts at Lazard Capital Markets are predicting that the demand will continue to exceed supply through the holiday season.

How do they think the situation will be resolved? Increased production? No, they think people will eventually lose interest in the Wii because of its weaker processing power. Don't hurt yourselves slamming on the "comment" button!

[Via Game|Life]

JoystiqAnalysts say shortages could last all year originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 May 2007 15:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analystsnintendonintendo wiiNintendoWiishortagesupplywiiTue, 29 May 2007 15:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Analysts: Halo 3 will finally make Xbox division profitable]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/25/analysts-halo-3-will-finally-make-xbox-division-profitable/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/25/analysts-halo-3-will-finally-make-xbox-division-profitable/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/25/analysts-halo-3-will-finally-make-xbox-division-profitable/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Four analysts at Goldman-Sachs have predicted that Bungie's Halo 3 will rake in over $170 million in revenue for the quarter. The analysts also assert that the game will put the Xbox division in the black for its first quarter ever with just the first week of sales.

Other notes by the analysts:
  • The figure is based on estimates that 4.2 million copies shipped in the quarter and an installed user base of 13.2 million by September. That would mean Halo 3 would be purchased by nearly one-third of Xbox 360 owners.
  • It is assumed that Microsoft keeps 80 percent of the retail price on first-party titles.
  • Halo 2 sold 7.5 million in its first quarter of release, with 2.38 million on the first day. That amounts to 38 percent of the user base.
Recently Robbie Bach, president of Microsoft's Entertainment & Devices Division, stated that he expects the Xbox to be profitable next year. We have very little doubt that Master Chief can pull the Xbox brand out of the red for at least the first quarter or two, but can Microsoft fill the void with other titles and services once the momentum slows down?

[Via Xbox 360 Fanboy]

JoystiqAnalysts: Halo 3 will finally make Xbox division profitable originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 May 2007 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-IndustriesanalystanalystsbungieBungie-StudiosbusinesschiefFPShalohalo 3Halo-3Halo3master chiefMasterChiefMicrosoftMicrosoft-Game-StudiosxboxXbox-360Fri, 25 May 2007 14:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Analysts believe Sony's Kutaragi was squeezed out]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/27/analysts-believe-sonys-kutaragi-was-squeezed-out/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/27/analysts-believe-sonys-kutaragi-was-squeezed-out/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/27/analysts-believe-sonys-kutaragi-was-squeezed-out/#commentsFiled under: ,

It's hard not to imagine industry analysts getting along famously with PlayStation father, Ken Kutaragi. Holding hands, dancing in a circle and spouting outrageous claims at each other, they'd have a jolly good session of prediction, scrutiny and hopscotch. In response to Mr. Kutaragi's recently announced plans to leave the circle, several analysts have expressed belief that his departure is partly motivated by the parent company yelling from the outskirts of the park, insisting that, "You've had your fun, it's time to go." According to a GameDaily BIZ report, the PlayStation 3 may make for a particularly heavy golden hand to shake.

Evan Wilson of Pacific Crest Securities tells Bloomberg.com that Kutaragi's retirement "is likely an indication Sony corporate isn't satisfied with the initial success of the PS3." The Washington Post calls it a "face-saving firing," quoting IDC's famous time traveling analyst, Billy Pidgeon, as saying, "Sony had too much hype and not enough delivery." Furthermore, an AG Edwards analyst, Bill Kreher, tells GameDaily BIZ, "The PS3 obviously has had a rough start and I would question whether Kutaragi would still be leaving if the console had been better received by the marketplace."

Still, some analysts agree with Sony's official line that Kutaragi had left of his own accord in pursuit of "new challenges beyond the world of PlayStation." Michael Pachter of Wedbush Morgan Securities states that the decision likely had more to do with software and the PSP. "It can't be [Kutaragi's] fault that the cost of the box was so high, and I have a tough time believing he insisted on Blu-ray. They probably just all agreed it was time to move on." He and a few other analysts go on to note that Kaz Hirai will prove to be an effective leader and a better instigator of success in the years to come.

JoystiqAnalysts believe Sony's Kutaragi was squeezed out originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Apr 2007 12:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AnalystsKen KutaragiKenKutaragiKutaragiPS3SonyFri, 27 Apr 2007 12:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Analyst: 360 sales below expectations]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/25/analyst-360-sales-below-expectations/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/25/analyst-360-sales-below-expectations/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/25/analyst-360-sales-below-expectations/#commentsFiled under:

Analyst Lazard Capital Markets says North American Xbox 360 sales are tracking closer to 4.5 million rather than the previously expected nice round 5 million::

"Xbox 360 supplies improved significantly over the course of the year following initial hardware constraints, and it appears that pent-up consumer demand has largely been fulfilled. However, it is possible that an expanding software release calendar, as well as limited supplies of new PS3 and Wii hardware could help boost 360 unit sales over the holidays."

Yep, I hear sales go up at Christmas. I wonder if anybody with a desktop and a grasp of the obvious can be an analyst. Of course, they are raising expectations for the PS3 and Wii.

JoystiqAnalyst: 360 sales below expectations originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Oct 2006 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analystsmarketsalesWed, 25 Oct 2006 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Japanese PS3 games to cost up to ¥9,800 ($85 USD) [update 1]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/25/japanese-ps3-games-to-cost-up-to-9-800-85-usd/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/25/japanese-ps3-games-to-cost-up-to-9-800-85-usd/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/25/japanese-ps3-games-to-cost-up-to-9-800-85-usd/#commentsFiled under: ,

[Update: Sony announced that pricing for first-party games would be ¥5980 ($50 USD) while third-parties have announced higher prices, like Sega's ¥7140 ($60 USD). Nothing to see here.]

We'll begin by clearly and emphatically stating that the following information has no official bearing on the price of PS3 games in the U.S. or other countries.

IGN is sourcing Japanese journalist Munechika Nishida's "multiple information sources" that PS3 games will be between ¥8,800 ($75 USD) and ¥9,800 ($85 USD). Development costs are being blamed for the pricey games.

The article also states that third party developer support is lagging for the PS3 and that Sony will switch to a "traditional business model" where they'll sell the PS3 at a lower price and recoup the money off of software sales.

The big question is if Nishida's information winds up being true for Japan, what's it going to mean for the rest of the planet? Maybe non-Japanese gamers will pay less for games, considering we're not even getting that PS3 price drop. Then again, maybe not.

[Thanks, Martin]

JoystiqJapanese PS3 games to cost up to ¥9,800 ($85 USD) [update 1] originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Sep 2006 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analystsexpensivejapanMunechika Nishidapriceps3ps3 gamesPs3GamesMon, 25 Sep 2006 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PC gaming "becoming a niche" -- analysts speak]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/11/pc-gaming-becoming-a-niche-analysts-speak/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/11/pc-gaming-becoming-a-niche-analysts-speak/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/11/pc-gaming-becoming-a-niche-analysts-speak/#commentsFiled under: ,

Three analysts are spilling their thoughts over at Gamasutra, examining the state of the PC gaming industry at the moment. With console platforms offering an appealing piracy-free environment, it's no wonder soundbites like "becoming a niche" and "retail spending ... will decline" are springing readily to mind; however, the overall tone is mostly positive.

Will the PC market become one of digital distribution, MMOs and casual games only? Analysts disagree; digital distribution has limits, but offers the opportunity for more revenue and profit. MMOs and casual games are on the rise, but the "Games for Windows" initiative may provide a much needed consolidation and marketing effort for PC games in other genres as well.

JoystiqPC gaming "becoming a niche" -- analysts speak originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Sep 2006 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analystsgamasutragamesforwindowsPCpc gamingPcGamingvistaMon, 11 Sep 2006 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[The Intelligence Factor: analysts speak out... again]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/07/19/the-intelligence-factor-analysts-speak-out-again/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/07/19/the-intelligence-factor-analysts-speak-out-again/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/07/19/the-intelligence-factor-analysts-speak-out-again/#commentsFiled under:

We know, we know. You've been seeing this regurgitated analyst stuff for months now, and you'd be hard pressed to find something that cites Sony in a good position at this point. Well, unfortunately, DFC Intelligence isn't ready to change that trend.

"Why should anyone even bother reading something from a bunch of researchers outside of the industry anyway," you ask? Actually, DFC has been covering the games biz ever since 1993. They've been around the block a few times, so even if you don't like what you're reading here (and if you're a Sony fan, you won't) it's still just food for thought.

Lots of research and 600 pages later, they've come out with a comprehensive forecast of the industry. What they say is that "two things are clear: 1) the high price of the PlayStation 3 is going to slow overall industry growth, especially for software and 2) if Sony does not change its current strategy for the PS3 the system will probably end up in third place in installed base. Microsoft and Nintendo have been handed that golden opportunity and both companies have a chance to make their systems the market leader."

What's this about software growth and Sony inhibiting it? On the contrary, with their free online platform, Sony could be poised to offer all kinds of commercial and independent (heck, even homebrew) games to a wider audience right out of the box. This could be just as much of a golden opportunity if they play their cards right. As for Blu-ray and the other software medium, we've already heard from one developer that he believes it could make all the difference. So take this analyst report as you will, the rest of us are waiting for November.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqThe Intelligence Factor: analysts speak out... again originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 Jul 2006 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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