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[No Doubt and Activision don't speak in court, agree settlement instead]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/04/no-doubt-and-activision-dont-speak-in-court-agree-settlement-i/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/04/no-doubt-and-activision-dont-speak-in-court-agree-settlement-i/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/04/no-doubt-and-activision-dont-speak-in-court-agree-settlement-i/#comments No Doubt and Activision don't speak in court, agree settlement insteadNo Doubt and Activision reached an out-of-court settlement this week over the band's lawsuit against the publisher, finally bringing an end to three years of legal dispute. The Californian rock band first filed the lawsuit back in 2009, claiming their likenesses were only to be used in Band Hero with their own in-game tracks, not with the entire catalog. Despite Activision's best efforts, the case was due to finally appear in the Los Angeles Superior Court on October 15, but instead the two parties agreed to settle.

How things have changed since 2009. Music games like Rock Band 2 and Band Hero were ruling the roost, and No Doubt had only just reformed after the Stefani-imposed hiatus. Three years on and there won't be any more Hero games, while No Doubt recently released their sixth album. Now, following some Push & Shove it seems things will finally Settle Down completely for the Hero franchise so that it can rest in peace.

JoystiqNo Doubt and Activision don't speak in court, agree settlement instead originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Oct 2012 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionActivision-BlizzardBand-Herolalawsuitlegalneversoftno-doubtThu, 04 Oct 2012 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[No Doubt vs Activision goes to trial October 15]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/05/no-doubt-vs-activision-goes-to-trial-october-15/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/05/no-doubt-vs-activision-goes-to-trial-october-15/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/05/no-doubt-vs-activision-goes-to-trial-october-15/#comments The lawsuit between the band No Doubt and Activision, first filed way back in 2009, finally, finally has a court date. After Activision failed to have the suit dismissed in 2010, the suit will go to trial on October 15, reports GameSpot.

The suit alleges that the band's likeness was used in an unauthorized manner in Band Hero (remember music games?). No Doubt takes exception to the fact that players can use its band members' avatars to perform any song in the game, even those that aren't by No Doubt. Singer Gwen Stefani was particularly riled about the fact that her avatar could be used to sing songs with male vocalists, with the suit claiming the band's inclusion was tantamount to a "virtual karaoke circus act."

Come October 15, the case will go forward in the Los Angeles Superior Court.

JoystiqNo Doubt vs Activision goes to trial October 15 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 05 Aug 2012 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActivisionBand-HerolawsuitmicrosoftnintendoNo-Doubtplaystationps3wiixboxSun, 05 Aug 2012 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[No Doubt vs Activision lawsuit cleared for trial later this year]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/30/no-doubt-vs-activision-lawsuit-cleared-for-trial-later-this-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/30/no-doubt-vs-activision-lawsuit-cleared-for-trial-later-this-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/30/no-doubt-vs-activision-lawsuit-cleared-for-trial-later-this-year/#comments ImageNo Doubt is officially allowed to sue Activision over its use of band members' avatars in Band Hero - again. Seriously, we've written this piece, like, three times already. This story is bananas.

Sorry.

No Doubt, the rock band led by singer Gwen Stefani, sued Activision in 2009, claiming it was used to create a "virtual karaoke circus act;" No Doubt says it only signed off on having its likeness portrayed singing its own songs, but the band is unlockable to play through the game's complete catalog.

A Superior Court judge has denied Activision's attempt to dismiss claims from the case, including fraud, violation of publicity rights and breach of contract, and it is expected to (finally) go to trial later this year. Activision says it has a video recording of No Doubt being told about the unlockable features and it is looking forward to presenting its defense.

JoystiqNo Doubt vs Activision lawsuit cleared for trial later this year originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 May 2012 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActivisionbandBand-HerocourtdsGwen-StefanilawsuitmicrosoftmusicnintendoNo-Doubtplaystationps3wiixboxWed, 30 May 2012 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Maroon 5 singer sues Activision over use of likeness in Band Hero]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/05/maroon-5-singer-sues-activision-over-use-of-likeness-in-band-her/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/05/maroon-5-singer-sues-activision-over-use-of-likeness-in-band-her/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/05/maroon-5-singer-sues-activision-over-use-of-likeness-in-band-her/#comments Adam Levine, lead singer of Maroon 5 (your little sister's favorite band three years ago), is suing Activision for inappropriately using his likeness in 2009's Band Hero, according to a suit found by The Wrap. Levine performed motion capture to have his avatar used in the Band Hero song "She Will Be Loved," but didn't give Activision permission to use his likeness with other songs, which it totally did. Levine alleges that Activision asked other artists for expanded use of their avatars and paid them more in the process.

Activision is no stranger to lawsuits like Levine's, losing a similar case to No Doubt in 2010 (Talk about jumping on the Bandwagon late).

JoystiqMaroon 5 singer sues Activision over use of likeness in Band Hero originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 05 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Activisionadam-levineBand-Herolawsuitmaroon-5microsoftnintendoNo-Doubtplaystationps3wiixboxFri, 05 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[No Doubt's Activision lawsuit can go to the next level]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/18/no-doubts-activision-lawsuit-can-go-to-the-next-level/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/18/no-doubts-activision-lawsuit-can-go-to-the-next-level/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/18/no-doubts-activision-lawsuit-can-go-to-the-next-level/#comments The LA Times reports a panel of judges, agreeing with a lower court ruling, rejected Activision Blizzard's appeal to throw out a suit by the band No Doubt over the use of its images in the game Band Hero. In a classic example of making sure to "read the fine print" on the contract, No Doubt sued after the band felt it was turned into a "virtual karaoke circus act," when its in-game avatars could be used to sing songs that were not its own.

Two years ago, when this whole situation started, the Guitar Hero franchise (and its spin-offs) were adding billions to the Actiblizzard coffers. The Guitar Hero franchise may be dead now, but the lawsuits carry on.

JoystiqNo Doubt's Activision lawsuit can go to the next level originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Feb 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActivisionActivision-blizzardBand-heroGuitar-heroMicrosoftNintendoNo-doubtPlaystationPs3WiiXboxFri, 18 Feb 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dell offering deals on Xbox 360, Wii and Band Hero this weekend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/28/dell-offering-deals-on-xbox-360-wii-and-band-hero-this-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/28/dell-offering-deals-on-xbox-360-wii-and-band-hero-this-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/28/dell-offering-deals-on-xbox-360-wii-and-band-hero-this-weekend/#comments In the market for a fancy new Xbox 360, Wii, or ... um, a new Band Hero bundle? All three have received discounts as part of Dell's Weekend Deals, which also cover a few TVs, cameras and a Blu-ray player. It sounds perfect for folks who are just getting into this whole "electronics" thing.

Continue reading Dell offering deals on Xbox 360, Wii and Band Hero this weekend

JoystiqDell offering deals on Xbox 360, Wii and Band Hero this weekend originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 28 Aug 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Band-HerodellmicrosoftnintendowiixboxSat, 28 Aug 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DJ Hero and Band Hero $50 off at Toys R Us]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/25/dj-hero-and-band-hero-50-off-at-toys-r-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/25/dj-hero-and-band-hero-50-off-at-toys-r-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/25/dj-hero-and-band-hero-50-off-at-toys-r-us/#comments Some of you lucky jerks might be living near a Toys R Us that didn't immediately sell out of Band Hero and DJ Hero earlier today -- a side-effect of a two-day, $50 discount on the two titles. Not excited? Here, we'll help you out with a little equation: DJ Hero = $70 - $50 = $20 = TOTALLY INSANE.

Continue reading DJ Hero and Band Hero $50 off at Toys R Us

JoystiqDJ Hero and Band Hero $50 off at Toys R Us originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Aug 2010 16:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionband-heroDJ-Herofreestylegamesmicrosoftneversoftplaystationps3xboxWed, 25 Aug 2010 16:51:00 EST<![CDATA[DJ Hero and other Activision peripheral bundles discounted at Kmart]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/03/dj-hero-and-other-activision-peripheral-bundles-discounted-at-km/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/03/dj-hero-and-other-activision-peripheral-bundles-discounted-at-km/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/03/dj-hero-and-other-activision-peripheral-bundles-discounted-at-km/#commentsKmart continues to prove how serious it is about awesome game deals, with temporary price drops on some of Activision's big-box games. If you've been waiting for the right time to buy DJ Hero, we can now confidently tell you exactly when that right time is: August 8 through 14, when Kmart will be selling it for $40 on PS3, Xbox 360, and Wii.

In addition, you'll be able to get the Guitar Hero 5 guitar bundle on the same three systems for $50, the full Band Hero bundle for $80, and, for whatever reason, Tony Hawk Ride for $40. These deals will be available both in-store and online, so you don't have to live anywhere near a Kmart to take advantage.

JoystiqDJ Hero and other Activision peripheral bundles discounted at Kmart originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Aug 2010 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActivisionBand-HeroDJ-HeroGuitar-Hero-5KmartmicrosoftMusicnintendoplaystationps3SkateboardingTony-Hawk-RidewiixboxTue, 03 Aug 2010 16:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Guitar Hero Monthly: August DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/02/guitar-hero-monthly-august-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/02/guitar-hero-monthly-august-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/02/guitar-hero-monthly-august-dlc/#commentsFiled under: , ,

With Activision planning to launch Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock in September, this month allows you to build up your collection of forwards-compatible DLC, or simply bolster last year's Guitar Hero 5 and Band Hero. Expect 15 DLC tracks throughout August from bands The Used, Sum 41, Weezer, Megadeth and P.O.D.

As always, make your way past the jump to see the full list of songs, release dates and prices.

Continue reading Guitar Hero Monthly: August DLC

JoystiqGuitar Hero Monthly: August DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Aug 2010 11:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>band-herodlcGuitar-Heroguitar-hero-5guitar-hero-monthlyguitar-hero-warriors-of-rockmegadethmicrosoftnintendoplaystationpodps3sum-41the-usedweezerwiixboxMon, 02 Aug 2010 11:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Guitar Hero 5 and Band Hero: July DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/06/guitar-hero-5-and-band-hero-july-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/06/guitar-hero-5-and-band-hero-july-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/06/guitar-hero-5-and-band-hero-july-dlc/#commentsFiled under: , ,

This month, the Guitar Hero 5 and Band Hero DLC party starts off with a high-pitched bang, with three solid Queen tracks hitting the storefront later today. That bang becomes a guttural scream the week after, when Avenged Sevenfold drops a few songs. That scream becomes an "eww-ah-ah-ah-ah" one more week later, when Disturbed throws its hat in the ring. Finally, Shinedown will have some songs added to the service. (We don't know enough about their musical offerings to continue the metaphor.)

Click past the jump to see the full list of songs, release dates and prices.

Continue reading Guitar Hero 5 and Band Hero: July DLC

JoystiqGuitar Hero 5 and Band Hero: July DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Jul 2010 13:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionavenged-sevenfoldband-herodisturbeddlcGH5Guitar-Hero-5guitar-hero-monthlyguitar-hero-warriors-of-rockmicrosoftneversoftnintendoplaystationps3queenshinedownwiixboxTue, 06 Jul 2010 13:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Guitar Hero 5 and Band Hero: June DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/guitar-hero-5-and-band-hero-june-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/guitar-hero-5-and-band-hero-june-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/guitar-hero-5-and-band-hero-june-dlc/#comments
[flickr]
June's shaping up to be quite a packed month for Guitar Hero 5 and Band Hero DLC aficionados. On top of a free pack of national anthems for Xbox 360 and PS3 users -- you haven't lived until you've rocked out to Germany's national anthem, "Lied der Deutschen," by the way -- three separate band track packs will be available. These will feature Stone Temple Pilots, Alice Cooper and All Time Low.

Head past the break to check out the full list of DLC. We have a feeling that Spanish foreign exchange student staying with your family this summer is going to be pumped to play some "Marcha Real."

Continue reading Guitar Hero 5 and Band Hero: June DLC

JoystiqGuitar Hero 5 and Band Hero: June DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 May 2010 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionalice-cooperall-time-lowBand Heroband-heroBandHerodlcDSGuitar-Heroguitar-hero-5guitar-hero-monthlyMicrosoftmusicneversoftNintendoRed-Octanerhythmstone-temple-pilotsWiiXbox-360Wed, 26 May 2010 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Guitar Hero 5 and Band Hero: May DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/04/guitar-hero-5-and-band-hero-may-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/04/guitar-hero-5-and-band-hero-may-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/04/guitar-hero-5-and-band-hero-may-dlc/#comments It's the beginning of the month, which means it's time to run down the list of Guitar Hero 5 and Band Hero DLC. In May, we're getting three separate track packs -- the last week of the month seems to be void of anything new, for some reason.

Like alternative pop ensembles like Snow Patrol and Alpha Rev? How about classic rock troupes such as Steve Miller Band and Lynyrd Skynyrd? How about Love in an Elevator? No, we mean the Aerosmith song, not that time you were trapped and -- forget we said anything.

Head past the break for the full list of DLC for May.

Continue reading Guitar Hero 5 and Band Hero: May DLC

JoystiqGuitar Hero 5 and Band Hero: May DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 May 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Activisionaerosmithalpha-revalternative-popBand Heroband-heroBandHerocapraclassic-rockdlcDSforeignerGuitar-Heroguitar-hero-5guitar-hero-monthlylynyrd-skynyrdMicrosoftNeversoftNintendoRed-Octanesnow-patrolsteve-miller-bandWiiXbox-360Tue, 04 May 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Activision fails to have No Doubt lawsuit dismissed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/16/activision-fails-to-have-no-doubt-lawsuit-dismissed/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/16/activision-fails-to-have-no-doubt-lawsuit-dismissed/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/16/activision-fails-to-have-no-doubt-lawsuit-dismissed/#comments If the whole West, Zampella and Activision kerfluffle is no longer satisfying your desire for daily litigation drama, we'd like to point you to an old friend we haven't heard from in a while. We speak, of course, of the No Doubt vs. Activision lawsuit, in which the former accused the latter of infringing on its right-of-publicity by allowing their in-game Band Hero avatars to be used to sing other recording artists' songs in the game.

According to the LA Times, Activision recently attempted to invoke freedom-of-speech protections under the 1st Amendment to have the case dismissed out-of-hand -- a tactic shot down by Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Kenji Machida. Though Activision has the option to appeal this decision, it looks like the folks from No Doubt might have a chance at taking back their intellectual property and forming a new studio under EA. Wait -- we mixed them up again, didn't we?

Yeah, we did.

JoystiqActivision fails to have No Doubt lawsuit dismissed originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Apr 2010 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionBand Heroband-heroBandHerocopyright-infringementDSGuitar-HerolawlawsuitlegalMicrosoftneversoftNintendono-doubtRed-Octaneright-of-publicityWiiXbox-360Fri, 16 Apr 2010 10:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Guitar Hero 5 and Band Hero: April DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/31/guitar-hero-5-and-band-hero-april-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/31/guitar-hero-5-and-band-hero-april-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/31/guitar-hero-5-and-band-hero-april-dlc/#comments Next month's musical lineup for Guitar Hero 5 and Band Hero is as wide and varied as a kiddie pool full of Sweet 'n Salty Chex Mix, bringing in tracks from Fall Out Boy, The All-American Rejects, Phoenix, Blur, Saving Abel, and Black Sabbath. However, there's one track in particular that stands proudly above the rest -- one which will surely soon skyrocket to the top of the "Most Played" charts. You know, that song that everyone requests at every concert. What? Dolly Parton's "9 to 5?" What kind of concerts have you been going to?

No sir -- we're talking about "Free Bird," which will be available tomorrow, barring some horrific April Fools' Day shenanigans. Check out the full list of tracks, along with their release dates, past the jump.

Continue reading Guitar Hero 5 and Band Hero: April DLC

JoystiqGuitar Hero 5 and Band Hero: April DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 31 Mar 2010 11:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Activisionapril-2010Band Heroband-heroBandHerodlcDSguitar-heroguitar-hero-5guitar-hero-monthlyMicrosoftNeversoftNintendoRed-OctaneWiiXbox-360Wed, 31 Mar 2010 11:03:00 EST<![CDATA['80s Track Pack available now for Guitar Hero 5 and Band Hero]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/26/80s-track-pack-available-now-for-guitar-hero-5-and-band-hero/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/26/80s-track-pack-available-now-for-guitar-hero-5-and-band-hero/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/26/80s-track-pack-available-now-for-guitar-hero-5-and-band-hero/#comments As expected, the '80s Track Pack for Guitar Hero 5 and Band Hero is now available for download on all the various consoles, featuring three respectable songs from the decade of New Wave and hair bands. Well, two or three, depending on how you like The Go-Gos. The entire thing is available for 440 on Xbox Live, $5.49 on PSN, or 550 Wii Points, and the individual songs are as follows:
Say what you want about "We Got the Beat," but we won't tolerate hating on the Crue or Night Ranger and, from the looks of those hairstyles above, they won't either. These songs are available now for both games, so get yourself mo-tor-in' on over to the store if you want 'em.

Joystiq'80s Track Pack available now for Guitar Hero 5 and Band Hero originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Mar 2010 04:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActivisionBand Heroband-heroBandHeroconsolesdlcdownloaddownloadabledownloadable-contentDSguitar-heroguitar-hero-5hair-bandsMicrosoftmotley-crueNeversoftnew-wavenight-rangerNintendopointspsnRed-Octanesongsthe-go-gostrack-packWiiwii-pointsxblxblaXbox-360Fri, 26 Mar 2010 04:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Guitar Hero 5 and Band Hero: March DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/25/guitar-hero-5-and-band-hero-march-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/25/guitar-hero-5-and-band-hero-march-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/25/guitar-hero-5-and-band-hero-march-dlc/#comments
 Next month's Guitar Hero 5 and Band Hero DLC should satisfy would-be rockers of all types, offering an eclectic mix of -- oh, there's totally some Flogging Molly! Sorry, we just had to get that out of our system, because St. Patrick's Day is next month and because, man, Flogging Molly is totally awesome.

There are four distinct track packs coming next month, featuring OK Go, Blink-182, the aforementioned Molly Floggers and an '80s track pack -- because nothing says March like a dusty old denim jacket with the sleeves cut off and some Night Ranger.

Continue reading Guitar Hero 5 and Band Hero: March DLC

JoystiqGuitar Hero 5 and Band Hero: March DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Feb 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionBand Heroband-heroBandHeroblink-182dlcDSflogging-mollyGuitar-Heroguitar-hero-5guitar-hero-monthlyMicrosoftmotley-crueNeversoftnight-rangerNintendook-goRed-Octanethe-go-gostrack-packtrack-packsWiiXbox-360Thu, 25 Feb 2010 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[It's a dim Friday for Guitar Hero Black Sabbath DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/19/its-a-dim-friday-for-guitar-hero-black-sabbath-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/19/its-a-dim-friday-for-guitar-hero-black-sabbath-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/19/its-a-dim-friday-for-guitar-hero-black-sabbath-dlc/#commentsWere you looking forward to playing some Black Sabbath songs in Guitar Hero 5 this weekend? Of course you were -- that sounds awesome. Anyway, it's not going to happen. (And, it's certainly not happening for you either, Band Heroes -- whoever you are.)

Before the scheduled Thursday release of three tracks from Black Sabbath's Master of Reality album, Activision announced on its Guitar Hero Facebook page that the DLC wouldn't make its appointed release date, and added, "We hope to have the content available for download at a later date, so stay tuned!"

We were going to say, maybe the DLC was turned into steel in a great magnetic field, but, unfortunately, Iron Man isn't one of the songs in the pack. (Although, it would appear we just said it anyway.) We're checking in with Activision to find out what happened.

JoystiqIt's a dim Friday for Guitar Hero Black Sabbath DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Feb 2010 12:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionband-heroblack-sabbathdlcguitar-heroguitar-hero-5MicrosoftNintendoWiiXbox-360Fri, 19 Feb 2010 12:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Activision severely cutting music game releases in 2010]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/10/activision-severely-cutting-music-game-releases-in-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/10/activision-severely-cutting-music-game-releases-in-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/10/activision-severely-cutting-music-game-releases-in-2010/#commentsActivision plans to cut down on the number of Hero games in 2010. According to Activision Publishing CEO Mike Griffith in a conference call, the company expects the music game business to decline further as "the casual consumer proves less robust" and people are saturated enough with instrument controllers that they start buying only new discs.

"Fewer SKUs will service a broader audience," Griffith said. "In 2009 we released 25 music SKUs, and in 2010 we plan to release less than 10." The cuts will come in the form of PS2 versions and Band Hero bundles (leaving only standalone discs for that game), as the company focuses on Guitar Hero and DJ Hero releases in the "back half of the year."

That 25 SKU number, by the way, is a pretty conservative estimate. We added up just each console version of Guitar Hero Metallica, Guitar Hero Smash Hits, Guitar Hero 5, Guitar Hero Van Halen, Guitar Hero On Tour Modern Hits, DJ Hero, and Band Hero -- not counting various instrument bundles or special editions, and not counting cell phone versions -- and came up with 26. If you were to add things like the Renegade Edition of DJ Hero and add standalone disc releases to instrument bundles, that number would go up significantly.

JoystiqActivision severely cutting music game releases in 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Feb 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Activisionband-herodj-heroGuitar-HeroMicrosoftmike-griffithmusic-gamesNintendoWiiXbox-360Wed, 10 Feb 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guitar Hero 5 and Band Hero: February DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/guitar-hero-5-and-band-hero-february-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/guitar-hero-5-and-band-hero-february-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/guitar-hero-5-and-band-hero-february-dlc/#comments Things took a step towards the alternative in last month's Guitar Hero 5 and Band Hero DLC offerings, but it seems February will see the games' downloadable music get back on the path of straight-up rock. We'll be seeing new (old) jams from 30 Seconds to Mars, Breaking Benjamin, Third-Eye Blind and Black Sabbath. We personally can't wait to see Taylor Swift cover Ozzy's part on "Sweet Leaf."

All track packs will be available for $5.49 on PS3, 550 Wii Points or 440 on Xbox 360. In addition, all songs will be available seperately for $1.99, 200 Wii Points or 160. Head past the break for the complete list of February's downloadable songs.

Continue reading Guitar Hero 5 and Band Hero: February DLC

JoystiqGuitar Hero 5 and Band Hero: February DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Jan 2010 01:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>30-seconds-to-marsactivisionBand Heroband-heroBandHeroblack-sabbathbreaking-benjamindlcDSguitar-heroguitar-hero-5guitar-hero-monthlyMicrosoftmusicneversoftNintendoRed-Octanethird-eye-blindWiiXbox-360Fri, 29 Jan 2010 01:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Guitar Hero 5 and Band Hero: January DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/guitar-hero-5-and-band-hero-january-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/guitar-hero-5-and-band-hero-january-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/guitar-hero-5-and-band-hero-january-dlc/#commentsIf you've been jonesing to play along to a song performed by a fictional, cartoon heavy metal band, then look no further: Activision has announced a downloadable Dethklok song coming this month to the Guitar Hero line, as part of a metal track pack.

On the opposite extreme, January will see a Vampire Weekend collection released for Guitar Hero 5 and Band Hero to coincide with the band's new album, as well as a three-track Creedence Clearwater Revival set and a collection of songs from "up-and-coming blues masters." (We assume that these so-called masters are real people and not cartoon characters.)

All tracks packs will be available for $5.49 on PS3, 550 Wii Points, or 440 on Xbox 360. In addition, all songs will be available a la carte for $1.99, 200 Wii Points, or 160. Head past the break for the complete January DLC lineup.

Continue reading Guitar Hero 5 and Band Hero: January DLC

JoystiqGuitar Hero 5 and Band Hero: January DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Jan 2010 12:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Activisionamon-amarthBand Heroband-heroBandHerocreedence-clearwater-revivaldethklokdlcDSguitar-heroguitar-hero-5guitar-hero-monthlyMicrosoftNeversoftNintendoRed-Octaneshadows-fallvampire-weekendWiiXbox-360Thu, 07 Jan 2010 12:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Swag Sunday: Band Hero for everything Nintendo [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/13/swag-sunday-band-hero-for-everything-nintendo/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/13/swag-sunday-band-hero-for-everything-nintendo/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/13/swag-sunday-band-hero-for-everything-nintendo/#comments Update: We've closed the comments and will contact a winner this week. Check the email tied to your commenter name, folks!

For this week's not-quite-the-holidays-yet giveaway, we've got a Band Hero prize pack for the Nintendo Wii and DS lined up for one lucky winner. That's right! Not just Band Hero for your silly old home console, but also for your handheld (that is, unless you have a Nintendo DSi or XXL -- sorry!). Prepare to be embraced by friends and relatives as a genuine American (or Canadian, excluding Quebec) hero while playing along to your favorite Taylor Swift song.

In honor of last night's Video Game Awards (and the subsequent flood of news and trailers), we're asking you to tell us what your favorite trailer or news was from the World Premiere-stravaganza. We'll pick one winner at random this week, so as always, be sure to keep an eye on the inbox!
  • Leave a comment telling us what your favorite trailer or news was from last night's World Premiere-stravaganza (the VGAs).
  • You must be 18 years or older and a resident of the US or Canada (excluding Quebec -- likely because of The Kids in the Hall).
  • Limit 1 entry per person per day
  • This entry period ends at 7:31PM ET on Monday, December 13
  • At that time, we'll randomly select one winner to receive one copy of Band Hero for Nintendo DS ($50 ARV) and one copy of Band Hero for Nintendo Wii ($50 ARV).
  • For a list of complete rules, click here

What is Joyswag? Since we don't keep the games and merchandise we receive for review or promotional purposes, it becomes "Joyswag," which is passed along to our readers. For more info on our policy, click here.

JoystiqSwag Sunday: Band Hero for everything Nintendo [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 13 Dec 2009 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionband-heroDSgiveawayjoyswagmusicmusic-rhythmNintendorhythmspike-vga-2009swag-saturdayswag-sundayvicarious-visionsWiiSun, 13 Dec 2009 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Activision countersues No Doubt, which is likely not feeling 'Hella Good']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/09/activision-countersues-no-doubt-who-is-likely-not-feeling-hell/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/09/activision-countersues-no-doubt-who-is-likely-not-feeling-hell/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/09/activision-countersues-no-doubt-who-is-likely-not-feeling-hell/#comments Last month, the extremely certain pop-rock outfit No Doubt sued Activision for allowing their likenesses to be used in Band Hero, where players could perform the game's entire catalog of songs as the Stefani-fronted group. According to the complaint, this feature turned the band's appearance in the game into a "virtual karaoke circus act." Earlier this week, The Hollywood Reporter dug up a countersuit filed against the band by Activision, who claimed No Doubt was in breach of a contract between the two parties, and had reaped unjust enrichment as a result.

Activision's main response to No Doubt's claim is that that the band requested their likenesses be limited to perform the band's own songs in-game -- however, it made this request "only after the Band Hero programming was finalized." Activision seeks an unspecified amount of damages and interest from the band, as well as court and attorney fees, and a return of all payments dispersed to the band for their initial involvement. Jeez, Activision. Might as well go ahead and ask for the kitchen sink while you're at it.

[Via GamePolitics]

JoystiqActivision countersues No Doubt, which is likely not feeling 'Hella Good' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Dec 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionband-herocourtlawlawsuitMicrosoftmusicNintendono-doubtrhythmWiiXbox-360Wed, 09 Dec 2009 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Guitar Hero 5 and Band Hero: December DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/30/guitar-hero-5-and-band-hero-december-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/30/guitar-hero-5-and-band-hero-december-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/30/guitar-hero-5-and-band-hero-december-dlc/#comments Activision is pulling out a majority of the stops for the last month of 2009, adding a highly varied assortment of tracks to Guitar Hero 5 and Band Hero throughout the next 31 days. Included are track packs from OneRepublic and The Fall of Troy, an "Indie Rock" pack which includes songs from Spoon, Pavement and Nada Surf, a "New Years Rock" pack which features music from Taylor Swift, Maroon 5 and No Doubt, and finally, a totally free song which will arrive shortly before the holidays: Steve Ouimette's version of "Hark The Herald Angels Sing."

These songs follow the franchise's usual DLC pricing structure: Each single track will cost 160 ($2, 200 Wii Points), while each track pack will cost 440 ($5.50, 550 Wii Points). For a full list of song titles and release dates, just click past the break.

Continue reading Guitar Hero 5 and Band Hero: December DLC

JoystiqGuitar Hero 5 and Band Hero: December DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 Nov 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionband-herodlcguitar-heroguitar-hero-5guitar-hero-monthlyMicrosoftnadasurfneversoftNintendoonerepublicpavementspoonthe-fall-of-troyWiiXbox-360Mon, 30 Nov 2009 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Band Hero clothing and accessories head to Xbox Live Marketplace]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/13/band-hero-clothing-and-accessories-head-to-xbox-live-marketplace/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/13/band-hero-clothing-and-accessories-head-to-xbox-live-marketplace/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/13/band-hero-clothing-and-accessories-head-to-xbox-live-marketplace/#comments We might normally scoff at the array of Xbox Live Avatar clothing being made available for Band Hero - a near ubiquitous occurrence with game releases for the Xbox 360 these days. Not today though, friends. Nope, today we have the opportunity to get our Avatar a totally rad, Say Anything style boombox. We know, we know - finally. For the low, low price of 240 ($3), you too can be as cool as Lloyd Dobler (though there's no promise of landing a lady as fine as Diane Court with said item).

We suppose you could pick up the other stuff too, available for 80 ($1) to 240 ($3), if you're into that kinda thing. You could get a microphone or a shirt or a ... just get the boombox, alright? You don't wanna end up being given a pen and getting told how "valuable the friendship" is, do you? Hmm?

JoystiqBand Hero clothing and accessories head to Xbox Live Marketplace originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionavataravatar-clothingavatarsBand Heroband-heroBandHeroboomboxGuitar-HeroNeversoftRed-Octanesay-anythingxblxblmxbox-livexbox-live-marketplaceFri, 13 Nov 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LGJ: Read the fine print!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/07/lgj-read-the-fine-print/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/07/lgj-read-the-fine-print/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/07/lgj-read-the-fine-print/#commentsEach week Mark Methenitis contributes Law of the Game on Joystiq ("LGJ"), a column on legal issues as they relate to video games:

CJ Sorg

Well, after the incident with Courtney Love and Kurt, it looks like the whole issue of famous musicians in games is back in the press with No Doubt suing Activision over Band Hero. A one time event is an anomaly, but twice in just a few months suggests something else. Of course, both of these all tie back to the contract, and since I'm a transactional attorney who spends the majority of most days negotiating and drafting agreements like these, I'm hoping I can shed a little light on what might be causing the problems. Since I wasn't involved in these particular negotiations nor have I read these contracts, all of what I'm presenting is speculation.

But before I begin, I suppose I should answer the simple question, "What is a contract?" I assume that most people reading this have at least some idea, but just in case, it's worth describing in detail. A contract is a legally binding agreement between two parties to perform certain promises in the future. In theory, to form a contract there are five elements: Offer and acceptance, consideration, intent, capacity, and formalities. In reality, it's fairly simple. The parties must have a meeting of the minds, that is agree to the same terms, which is often viewed as an offer by one party and acceptance by the other. Each party must put up something of value, called consideration, for the contract to be valid. The parties must intend to enter into a contract, and be of the appropriate mental capacity to enter into the agreement. And then the agreement is generally recorded in writing, as most jurisdictions have rules that require written agreements, which is then signed by the parties. And that is how a contract is born, in theory anyway.

Continue reading LGJ: Read the fine print!

JoystiqLGJ: Read the fine print! originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 07 Nov 2009 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionband-herocolumnscontractcontract-lawcontractslawlaw-of-the-gamelawsuitlgjno-doubtSat, 07 Nov 2009 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Allow Activision to introduce you to Taylor Swift]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/05/allow-activision-to-introduce-you-to-taylor-swift/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/05/allow-activision-to-introduce-you-to-taylor-swift/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/05/allow-activision-to-introduce-you-to-taylor-swift/#comments
If you're anything like us, you threw off your Taylor Swift comforter this morning, changed out of those Taylor Swift jammies, and thought to yourself, "Today is one more day to win a chance to meet Taylor Swift." Thankfully, Activision and upcoming family-friendly music game Band Hero are teaming up to make that dream a reality.

If you purchase a copy of Band Hero in the month of Novemeber (why, that's this month!), you can enter for a chance for two to meet Taylor Swift. Alright, alright, now calm down. You're panting. It's going to be alright. After you pick up your copy of Band Hero tonight, slowly remove the instruction manual from the inside of the game box and simply enter the code from its back at this website. According to the site, you could supposedly win some other stuff or something, but whatever.

JoystiqAllow Activision to introduce you to Taylor Swift originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 05:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionband-herocontestMicrosoftNintendotaylor-swifttaylorswiftWiiXbox-360Thu, 05 Nov 2009 05:29:00 EST<![CDATA[No Doubt suing Activision for Band Hero 'circus act' appearance]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/04/no-doubt-suing-activision-for-band-hero-circus-act-appearance/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/04/no-doubt-suing-activision-for-band-hero-circus-act-appearance/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/04/no-doubt-suing-activision-for-band-hero-circus-act-appearance/#comments The multi-platinum rock band No Doubt has filed a lawsuit against Activision in a L.A. County Superior Court claiming its likeness was "transformed" into a "virtual karaoke circus act" in over sixty songs in the recently released music title, Band Hero. According to TMZ, No Doubt claims gamers were only supposed to be able to use their likeness with three of its own tracks; however, the band is available as playable characters through the game's entire music catalog.

Of particular note is lead singer Gwen Stefani's displeasure that her likeness can be used to sing "Honky Tonk Woman" by the Rolling Stones -- a song which references sex with prostitutes -- using a male voice and mannerisms. For its "circus act" inclusion, No Doubt is seeking an injunction to halt the "unauthorized use" of the band's name and likeness, as well as an unknown amount of damages (aka mad monies). Seems like Activision can't keep rock stars happy, dead or alive.

[Via TeamXbox]

JoystiqNo Doubt suing Activision for Band Hero 'circus act' appearance originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionBand Heroband-heroBandHerobudcat-creationsDSGuitar-Herogwen-stefanilawsuitMicrosoftneversoftNintendono-doubtRed-Octanevicarious-visionsWiiXbox-360Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo World Store holding Band Hero launch event tomorrow]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/31/nintendo-world-store-holding-band-hero-launch-event-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/31/nintendo-world-store-holding-band-hero-launch-event-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/31/nintendo-world-store-holding-band-hero-launch-event-tomorrow/#commentsNo, that isn't your high school gym teacher (pictured right), that's Weezer front man Rivers Cuomo and he's joining with Nintendo to help launch the upcoming Pop-centric music title, Band Hero. Tomorrow, November 1, beginning at 11AM (EDT) at the Nintendo World Store in Rockefeller Plaza, players will have a chance to play both the Nintendo Wii and DS versions of the game before lining up for an exclusive autograph session with the singer from 3PM to 4PM.

Need more incentive to join the party? The first fifty players in line will walk away with a pre-release copy of the game to call their own and other random giveaways. Finally, you yourself can interrupt your sister's Taylor Swift karaoke sessions in homage to Kanye West's VMA performance. We call that, "emergent gameplay."



[Image Credit]

JoystiqNintendo World Store holding Band Hero launch event tomorrow originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 31 Oct 2009 23:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionBand Heroband-heroBandHeroGuitar-Herolaunch-partyneversoftnew-york-citynintendo-world-storeRed-Octanerivers-cuomovicarious-visionsweezerSat, 31 Oct 2009 23:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Buy 2 Wii games, get 1 free at Target starting Nov. 1]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/30/buy-2-wii-games-get-1-free-at-target-starting-nov-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/30/buy-2-wii-games-get-1-free-at-target-starting-nov-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/30/buy-2-wii-games-get-1-free-at-target-starting-nov-1/#comments Seems like these buy 2, get 1 free sales are all the rage these days, as Target has just announced it will be hosting one starting November 1. Unlike the recent sales from Amazon, Toys R Us and Best Buy, Target's sale applies only to Wii games, though it's worth noting that it does apply to all of them. As Wii games tend to be significantly cheaper than 360 and PS3 games, this might be a good deal for the early holiday shoppers out there.

Target is also offering a deal on Band Hero starting November 3 and running through next week. Those that pick up any version of the Band Hero bundle ($199) will get a free $20 gift card along with it. That should be just enough to buy supplies for the Taylor Swift party you will no doubt be forced to throw.

JoystiqBuy 2 Wii games, get 1 free at Target starting Nov. 1 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 Oct 2009 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>band-herodealDealsAndBargainsNintendopsasaletargetWiiFri, 30 Oct 2009 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guitar Hero 5: November DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/30/guitar-hero-5-november-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/30/guitar-hero-5-november-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/30/guitar-hero-5-november-dlc/#comments Sure, November may lack the phonetic building blocks which allow the word "Rock" to be tucked in there somehow, but that doesn't mean it won't bring any hard-rockin' jams to Guitar Hero 5. We've got the full list of DLC that's coming to the game next month posted after the jump, including selections from Lenny Kravitz, Metallica, KISS and others. One bundle, the "Neversoft Thanks the Fans Track Pack," will be absolutely free. The other packs, will follow the 160 ($2, 200 Wii Points) per song, 440 ($5.50, 550 Wii Points) per three-song pack pricing structure of last month's releases.

In addition, on Nov. 5, players will be able to import 61 of Band Hero's tracks into Guitar Hero 5 for 400 ($5, 500 Wii Points), or 69 of Guitar Hero 5's tracks into Band Hero for 480 ($6, 600 Wii Points). Hooray for sharing!

Continue reading Guitar Hero 5: November DLC

JoystiqGuitar Hero 5: November DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 Oct 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>band-herodlcguitar-heroguitar-hero-5guitar-hero-monthlykisslenny-kravitzmetallicaMicrosoftNintendoWiiXbox-360Fri, 30 Oct 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Band Hero's DS 'drum skin' in action]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/28/band-heros-ds-drum-skin-in-action/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/28/band-heros-ds-drum-skin-in-action/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/28/band-heros-ds-drum-skin-in-action/#commentsActivision is making people believe in the weird DS "drum skin" attachment for Band Hero the best way it knows how: by finding the most excitable shills it can in shopping centers, and putting the game in their hands. Predictably, they love it. We've never seen a mall so full of people willing to dance awkwardly to a DS game.

The buttons that go on top of the DS's buttons are only one of the selling points espoused in this trailer. Band Hero's extensive track list and flexible multiplayer (just like in the console version, you can combine instruments in any configuration) get lip service too. But they aren't as noticeable as that thing you put on the DS to play drums.

JoystiqBand Hero's DS 'drum skin' in action originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Oct 2009 21:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionband-herodrum-skinDSguitar-heromusicNintendovicarious-visionsWed, 28 Oct 2009 21:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Full Band Hero track list, importable songs revealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/19/full-band-hero-track-list-importable-songs-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/19/full-band-hero-track-list-importable-songs-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/19/full-band-hero-track-list-importable-songs-revealed/#comments If you've been savoring the slow trickle of track list announcements for Activision's tween-oriented rhythm title, Band Hero, your prolonged pleasure is about to come to a satisfying, yet abrupt end. The publisher has revealed all of the songs that will be available on the generically monikered game, and we've posted them -- along with details about compatible DLC and song importing from other Guitar Hero games -- after the jump in the least confusing manner we could possibly conjure. To help in this endeavor, we've even added a table of contents!

Man, we're seriously too nice for our own good.

Continue reading Full Band Hero track list, importable songs revealed

JoystiqFull Band Hero track list, importable songs revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Oct 2009 10:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionBand Heroband-heroBandHerocompatibilityDLCDSguitar-heroimportingMicrosoftmusicneversoftNintendoRed-Octanerhythmsong-importingsongstrack-listWiiXbox-360Mon, 19 Oct 2009 10:34:00 EST<![CDATA[DS/Wii connectivity in Band Hero detailed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/16/ds-wii-connectivity-in-band-hero-detailed/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/16/ds-wii-connectivity-in-band-hero-detailed/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/16/ds-wii-connectivity-in-band-hero-detailed/#comments If you're the proud papa (or momma) of your very own Wii and DS, then know that Activision's upcoming Band Hero will have some connectivity between the two devices. IGN got a demo of the new Wii game and informs us of some pretty nifty features, namely the DS Party Play option.

Building on the social aspect of the rhythm game experience, DS Party Play allows one to use an empty DS to set up and edit custom playlists while folks rock out on the TV and can even produce some trivia for those wanting to exercise their brains along with their voices, fingers and -- whatever it is you tap to play drums in these games. Gamers will even be able to adjust the difficulty of songs on the fly, with each notification popping up on the TV so that everyone knows it was you who picked that Evanescence song. What? They need to know so they can congratulate you for choosing such a great song. We're not being sarcastic at all!

JoystiqDS/Wii connectivity in Band Hero detailed originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Oct 2009 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionBand Heroband-heroBandHerods-party-playGuitar-HeromusicNeversoftRed-OctanerhythmFri, 16 Oct 2009 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Band Hero demo walking on Xbox Live]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/15/band-hero-demo-walking-on-xbox-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/15/band-hero-demo-walking-on-xbox-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/15/band-hero-demo-walking-on-xbox-live/#comments The Major sends word that a Band Hero demo is now available on Xbox Live Marketplace. The demo allows players to try out three different songs in the new, family-friendly Hero title and offers both the Party Play mode and the new Sing-Along mode. The three playable songs are: That's right, Taylor Swift is right there. With some clever positioning and a few mirrors, you might be able to convince your daughter this is the full game, saving you the trouble of actually buying it. Good luck.

JoystiqBand Hero demo walking on Xbox Live originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Oct 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionband-herodemoguitar-heroMicrosoftneversoftvicarious-visionsxblmXbox-360xbox-liveThu, 15 Oct 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[David Bowie, Styx, Yellowcard & others join Band Hero]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/01/david-bowie-styx-yellowcard-and-others-join-band-hero/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/01/david-bowie-styx-yellowcard-and-others-join-band-hero/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/01/david-bowie-styx-yellowcard-and-others-join-band-hero/#comments We'd like to congratulate Devo, David Bowie and Marvin Gaye for reaching one of the highest highs in the music industry. That would be appearing in a game with no fewer than three Taylor Swift songs: Band Hero. The artists' featured hits are part of the latest batch of announced tracks -- all of which you can find after the break -- for the tweenybopper spin-off.

Also, do we have any volunteers to dive into the belly of Band Hero and rescue the totally awesome "In a Big Country" Saving Private Ryan-style? It ... it doesn't deserve this.

Continue reading David Bowie, Styx, Yellowcard & others join Band Hero

JoystiqDavid Bowie, Styx, Yellowcard & others join Band Hero originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 01 Oct 2009 10:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionBand Heroband-heroBandHeroDSds-liteGuitar-HeroMicrosoftmusicNeversoftNintendoRed-Octaneset-listsetlisttracksWiiXbox-360Thu, 01 Oct 2009 10:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Be that guy from Maroon 5 in Band Hero]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/19/be-that-guy-from-maroon-5-in-band-hero/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/19/be-that-guy-from-maroon-5-in-band-hero/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/19/be-that-guy-from-maroon-5-in-band-hero/#commentsHave you ever dreamed of being Adam Levine, singer for Maroon 5? Specifically, have you ever dreamed that you'd look similar to him, but have your own voice? Like you're wearing an Adam Levine suit to karaoke night, maybe. Then you're going to love Band Hero.

Activision announced today that the singer has joined Taylor Swift as a playable character in the Guitar Hero sequel. Players will be able to guide Pseudo-Levine through Maroon 5's ubiquitous hit song "She Will Be Loved."

JoystiqBe that guy from Maroon 5 in Band Hero originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 Aug 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionadam-levineBand Heroband-heroBandHeroDSGuitar-HeroMicrosoftNeversoftNintendoRed-OctaneWiiXbox-360Wed, 19 Aug 2009 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Guitar Hero 5 allows song imports from previous games, features playable Johnny Cash]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/08/guitar-hero-5-allows-song-imports-from-previous-games-features/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/08/guitar-hero-5-allows-song-imports-from-previous-games-features/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/08/guitar-hero-5-allows-song-imports-from-previous-games-features/#comments
We've been blown away by the effort Activision and Neversoft have put into making Guitar Hero 5 actually worth playing -- but their most recent move may be their wisest yet. A recent IGN preview of the title revealed the game will allow players to import "some" of the tracks from World Tour and Smash Hits into GH5 (and Band Hero) for a small fee. In addition, 125 of World Tour's 128 DLC tracks will automatically work in the two upcoming rhythm titles. Of all the features to borrow from Rock Band 2, the removal of bothersome disc-swapping is one of the best.

For those who aren't particularly thrilled by this piece of news, try this one on for size: Johnny Cash will be a playable character in Guitar Hero 5. There's a video of the black-suited man performing "Ring of Fire" after the jump. We suggest checking it out -- but only if you like things that are completely badass.

Continue reading Guitar Hero 5 allows song imports from previous games, features playable Johnny Cash

JoystiqGuitar Hero 5 allows song imports from previous games, features playable Johnny Cash originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 08 Aug 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionband-heroguitar-heroguitar-hero-5guitar-hero-smash-hitsguitar-hero-world-tourjohnny-cashMicrosoftneversoftNintendorhythmWiiXbox-360Sat, 08 Aug 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Taylor Swift joins Band Hero, your daughter's head explodes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/04/taylor-swift-joins-band-hero-your-daughters-head-explodes/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/04/taylor-swift-joins-band-hero-your-daughters-head-explodes/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/04/taylor-swift-joins-band-hero-your-daughters-head-explodes/#comments First, if you used to have a teen daughter before the head explosion thing, we're sorry about your loss. If you didn't, you may need a little additional explanation. Songstress Taylor Swift is sort of like Hannah Montana with a slight country twang (or more accurately, Hannah Montana if she didn't pretend not to have a slight country twang), and she's just joined Band Hero.

No, you may not care, but if you've got a daughter of any age, we've got big news: You're going to be buying Band Hero. Or at least you would have, had her head not just exploded.

JoystiqTaylor Swift joins Band Hero, your daughter's head explodes originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 Aug 2009 13:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionBand Heroband-heroBandHeroDSGuitar-HeroMicrosoftNeversoftNintendoRed-Octanetaylor-swiftWiiXbox-360Tue, 04 Aug 2009 13:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Band Hero DS attachments revealed, gameplay details]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/23/band-hero-ds-attachments-revealed-gameplay-details/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/23/band-hero-ds-attachments-revealed-gameplay-details/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/23/band-hero-ds-attachments-revealed-gameplay-details/#comments
Click for life-size DS!
If you and your bandmates are ready to take your five-star show on the road, get ready to grab your DS Lites and crank the speakers up to elev ... well, push the little volume switch all the way to the right. Activision's Band Hero is coming to the DS, and includes four-player ad-hoc for full-band rocking. Players can use the On Tour guitar attachment, drop some vocals on the system's built-in mic, or use the drum skin attachment pictured above to supply the percussional accompanyment.

There's just one minor caveat -- if you've already upgraded to the DSi, then you're S.O.L. Not only will the guitar attachments not be able to plug into the GBA cartridge port that the system doesn't have, the drum skin won't fit on the handheld's svelte frame. Sorry, early adopters!

JoystiqBand Hero DS attachments revealed, gameplay details originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Jul 2009 13:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionband-heroDSNintendoperipheralrhythmvicarious-visionsThu, 23 Jul 2009 13:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Band Hero DS includes a 'drum skin']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/22/band-hero-ds-includes-a-drum-skin/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/22/band-hero-ds-includes-a-drum-skin/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/22/band-hero-ds-includes-a-drum-skin/#commentsActivision just announced the launch of the Band Hero site, with a contest whose prizes include both a console Band Hero bundle and a DS Band Hero bundle. The official rules for the contest reveal a bit more about the DS offering (which isn't hard, since we've previously known nothing at all about it).

Predictably, the Band Hero DS Lite Band Kit includes the Guitar Grip peripheral included in previous Guitar Hero On Tour games. However, it also includes a "drum skin" peripheral. We ... can't imagine how that would work on the DS (does it sit on top of the touch screen?) so we've emailed Activision for more details. Band Hero wouldn't be the first DS game to simulate drumming, but we don't know how it would work with a peripheral.

JoystiqBand Hero DS includes a 'drum skin' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Jul 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>band-heroDSguitar-heroNintendoWed, 22 Jul 2009 15:30:00 EST