Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Activision v. Infinity Ward court date delayed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/activision-v-infinity-ward-court-date-delayed/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/activision-v-infinity-ward-court-date-delayed/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/activision-v-infinity-ward-court-date-delayed/#comments ImageFormer Activision employees and Infinity Ward founders Jason West and Vincent Zampella are taking Activision to court on May 29, after a few years of legal back-and-forth negotiations and counter-suits from Activision. The date was initially set for May 7, but was pushed back at Activision's request.

West and Zampella claim Activision owes them $125 million in unpaid royalties, and they seek the rights to the Modern Warfare brand.

Activision's counter-suit is free to move forward as well, where Activision is asking for $400 million from EA, claiming EA stole its employees and that West and Zampella were consorting secretly with the competitor while still Activision employees.

Zampella and West were fired from Activision in 2010 on the grounds of these supposed secret meetings. They soon after founded Respawn Entertainment and now have 40 former Infinity Ward employees in their ranks.

JoystiqActivision v. Infinity Ward court date delayed originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActivisionCall-of-Duty-4-Modern-WarfareCoD4Infinity-WardJason-WestlegalmicrosoftModern-Warfarenintendopcplaystationps3Respawn-EntertainmentsueVince-ZampellawiixboxMon, 09 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Canned Call of Duty: Devil's Brigade was like Inglourious Basterds on steroids]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/canned-call-of-duty-devils-brigade-was-like-inglourious-baster/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/canned-call-of-duty-devils-brigade-was-like-inglourious-baster/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/canned-call-of-duty-devils-brigade-was-like-inglourious-baster/#comments In 2007, while Infinity Ward was building the first Modern Warfare, Underground Development began working on a top-secret, third-person shooter in the Call of Duty franchise, titled Devil's Brigade, Vox Games reports. Based on a real-life group of ruthless, almost superhuman American and Canadian soldiers in World War II, Devil's Brigade was Activision's fallback if fans didn't get the switch to a contemporary setting with Modern Warfare.

Devil's Brigade focused on tactical strategy, stealth missions and super-athletic Special Forces combat. The real Devil's Brigade scaled a mountain carrying more than 50 pounds of supplies and weapons to defeat the camp below in two hours, and they were known for infiltrating German trenches and slitting soldiers' throats, slapping stickers that read "The worst is yet to come," in German, on the dead men's helmets. Underground Development wanted to capture this essence for the game version of Devil's Brigade.

But, as history shows, players did understand Modern Warfare. When Devil's Brigade was ready for its final green light, it got lost in the shuffle of Infinity Ward's success and the Blizzard/Vivendi merger. Activision closed Underground Development in 2008 with nary a whisper about Devil's Brigade. For now, we have some screenshots of the game and the memories of throat-slitting action that could have been.

JoystiqCanned Call of Duty: Devil's Brigade was like Inglourious Basterds on steroids originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Call-of-DutyCall-of-Duty-4-Modern-WarfareCall-of-Duty-Devils-BrigadeCoD4Devils-BrigademicrosoftModern-Warfarepcplaystationps3Underground-DevelopmentWorld-War-IIwwIIxboxTue, 21 Feb 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[COD4 Star Wars mod 'Galactic Warfare' hits final release]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/05/cod4-star-wars-mod-galactic-warfare-hits-final-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/05/cod4-star-wars-mod-galactic-warfare-hits-final-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/05/cod4-star-wars-mod-galactic-warfare-hits-final-release/#comments It's been a long time coming, but the Call of Duty 4 "Galactic Warfare" mod has finally been deemed ... er ... final. In the works for the last couple of years, the mod takes the classic shooter to a galaxy far, far away, injecting it with Star Wars characters, weapons and locations, even adding its own killstreaks (including airstrikes with TIE bombers and Y-Wings!). There are seven maps, featuring familiar locations like Bespin and Mos Eisley.

The mod is available as a free download from ModDB.

JoystiqCOD4 Star Wars mod 'Galactic Warfare' hits final release originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Jul 2011 19:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionCall-of-Duty-4-Modern-WarfareCoD4modModern-WarfarepcTue, 05 Jul 2011 19:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Kinect Hacks: Gesture-based Modern Warfare, Zelda and Doom]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/09/kinect-hacks-gesture-based-modern-warfare-zelda-and-doom/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/09/kinect-hacks-gesture-based-modern-warfare-zelda-and-doom/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/09/kinect-hacks-gesture-based-modern-warfare-zelda-and-doom/#comments YouTube user Demize2010 has been busy since the Kinect's release -- though some have managed to squeeze motion controls into one older title, this crafty modder has Kinectified three. Check out the videos after the jump to see his take on Modern Warfare, Doom and Zelda: A Link to the Past.

Continue reading Kinect Hacks: Gesture-based Modern Warfare, Zelda and Doom

JoystiqKinect Hacks: Gesture-based Modern Warfare, Zelda and Doom originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 09 Jan 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Call-of-Duty-4-Modern-WarfareCoD4doomkinectkinect-hacksmicrosoftModern-Warfarethe-legend-of-zelda-a-link-to-the-pastxboxSun, 09 Jan 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Call of Duty 4 art project selected for YouTube Play shortlist]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/22/call-of-duty-4-art-project-selected-for-youtube-play-shortlist/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/22/call-of-duty-4-art-project-selected-for-youtube-play-shortlist/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/22/call-of-duty-4-art-project-selected-for-youtube-play-shortlist/#comments In June, YouTube and the Guggenheim Museum launched YouTube Play. A Biennial of Creative Video. The Guggenheim describes the project as an initiate "to discover and showcase the most exceptional talent working in the ever-expanding realm of online video." The shortlist of entries was announced this week, whittling down some 23,000 submissions from 91 countries to just 125 videos. Among this select group is Josh Bricker's piece "Post Newtonianism," which juxtaposes footage and sound from real modern warfare with Call of Duty 4. (Bricker's video is embedded after the break.)

The shortlist will be further reduced to 20 videos, as selected by a jury chaired by the Guggenheim's chief curator, and those choices will be featured at the museum in a special exhibit next month. Could it be? Call of Duty 4 ... in a museum?!

Continue reading Call of Duty 4 art project selected for YouTube Play shortlist

JoystiqCall of Duty 4 art project selected for YouTube Play shortlist originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Sep 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artCall-of-Duty-4-Modern-WarfareCoD4guggenheimjosh-brickerModern-Warfarepost-newtonianismshortlistyoutubeyoutube-playWed, 22 Sep 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[XBLM listing reveals 5 maps, 2 CoD4 remakes in MW2 'Stimulus Package' DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/13/xblm-listing-reveals-5-maps-2-cod4-remakes-in-mw2-stimulus-pac/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/13/xblm-listing-reveals-5-maps-2-cod4-remakes-in-mw2-stimulus-pac/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/13/xblm-listing-reveals-5-maps-2-cod4-remakes-in-mw2-stimulus-pac/#comments We may have to wait until March 30 for Modern Warfare 2's first DLC, the "Stimulus Package," but thanks to an Xbox Live Marketplace listing for the map pack, we aren't in the dark anymore as to its contents. The blurb reveals the pack will contain "5 additional action-packed maps," including three all new ones ("Bailout, Storm, and Salvage"), as well as two remakes from Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare ("Crash" and "Overgrown").

"Bailout" is said to be "a multi-layered apartment complex," while "Storm" is described as "an open industrial park littered with heavy machinery," and "Salvage" is "a snowy junkyard fortified by stacked debris and crushed cars." Presumably, if you're reading about the details of unreleased a MW2 map pack, you already knew that "Crash" is a "war-torn urban environment" and "Overgrown" is set in a large dry creek. No pricing is set, unfortunately, though you can ogle the XBLM listing for now if it makes you feel any better (though we wouldn't suggest it).

[Update: Clarified Stimulus Package DLC date of release.]

[Thanks CL4P-TP!]

JoystiqXBLM listing reveals 5 maps, 2 CoD4 remakes in MW2 'Stimulus Package' DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 13 Mar 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bailoutcall-of-dutycall-of-duty-4call-of-duty-4-modern-warfarecall-of-duty-modern-warfare-2cod4crashdlcmapathymapsMicrosoftmodern-warfaremodern-warfare-2overgrownsalvagestimulus-packagestormxblmXbox-360xbox-live-marketplaceSat, 13 Mar 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Deal of the week: 50% off CoD 4's Variety Map Pack]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/02/deal-of-the-week-50-off-cod-4s-variety-map-pack/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/02/deal-of-the-week-50-off-cod-4s-variety-map-pack/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/02/deal-of-the-week-50-off-cod-4s-variety-map-pack/#comments
This week, Xbox 360 and PS3 gamers will be able to snag Call of Duty 4's Variety Map Pack for half off, Activision announced. We've seen this with car dealers a million times. With next year's model -- Modern Warfare 2 -- about to hit the show floor soon, Activision is looking to get as much as it can out of the older model.

Still, if you're happy fragging folks in the older model, then you may want to check out the Variety Map Pack -- which has been discounted by half to 400 ($5) on Xbox Live and $4.99 on PSN, culminating in a double XP event for both consoles this coming weekend. Though odds are, if you care about this dinosaur of a game still, you and a majority of the other 13 million or so players probably already own this content.

Gallery: Call of Duty 4: Variety Map Pack

JoystiqDeal of the week: 50% off CoD 4's Variety Map Pack originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Nov 2009 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisioncall-of-duty-4cod4deal-of-the-weekinfinity-wardvariety-map-packxblmxbox-live-deal-of-the-weekMon, 02 Nov 2009 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Call of Duty 4 reaches 13 million players on Xbox Live]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/26/call-of-duty-4-reaches-13-million-players-on-xbox-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/26/call-of-duty-4-reaches-13-million-players-on-xbox-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/26/call-of-duty-4-reaches-13-million-players-on-xbox-live/#comments
With the release of the recent full-length trailer for Modern Warfare 2, the gaming populous' attention has been turned away from the original Modern Warfare (considering the game's getting a follow-up, we think its Modern-ness could be disputed by this point, but we digress). However, Infinity Ward community commissar Robert Bowling (a.k.a. fourzerotwo) recently stopped by Major Nelson's podcast to explain why CoD4 shouldn't be ignored quite yet -- it just hit the remarkable 13 million player mark on Xbox Live.

This number is impressive for two reasons: First, it's two million more players than the last Xbox Live total we heard for Modern Warfare back in March. The second reason has been mentioned by a few gaming blogs already -- it's surpassed the total number of World of Warcraft players. Impressive? Well, yes -- though nobody is forced to subscribe to Call of Duty 4. As far as pure, lucrative retention is concerned, we think WoW still takes the cake.

JoystiqCall of Duty 4 reaches 13 million players on Xbox Live originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 May 2009 12:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>call-of-duty-4cod4fpsinfinity-wardMicrosoftmodern-warfaremodern-warfare-2onlinerobert-bowlingwowXbox-360xbox-liveTue, 26 May 2009 12:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Call of Duty 4 reaches 15 million online players]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/14/call-of-duty-4-reaches-15-million-online-players/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/14/call-of-duty-4-reaches-15-million-online-players/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/14/call-of-duty-4-reaches-15-million-online-players/#comments
For an almost two-year old game, Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare still possesses an uncanny amount of pluck. It's become a bellwether for judging modern first-person shooters, and still regularly places high in the Xbox Live activity charts. However, Infinity Ward's Robert Bowling recently revealed the most convincing testimony of the game's success while accepting CoD 4's three BAFTA Awards in London earlier this week -- according to Bowling, the game's online multiplayer component has played host to just over 15 million players.

Bowling clarified that 11 million of said players joined CoD 4's ranks via Xbox Live, while over four million entered the fray on PSN. He didn't even mention how many PC gamers had gotten their war on, though we're sure that when combined with the console players, CoD 4's total online population would rival that of many average-sized countries.

JoystiqCall of Duty 4 reaches 15 million online players originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 14 Mar 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionbaftacall-of-duty-4cod4infinity-wardMicrosoftpsnrobert-bowlingXbox-360xbox-liveSat, 14 Mar 2009 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[CoD4: 50% off Variety Maps, new playlist and double XP]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/18/cod4-50-off-variety-maps-new-playlist-and-double-xp/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/18/cod4-50-off-variety-maps-new-playlist-and-double-xp/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/18/cod4-50-off-variety-maps-new-playlist-and-double-xp/#commentsCall of Duty 4's own Robert "fourzerotwo" Bowling just posted that, all next week, there will be a huge CoD4 celebration. One that's full of money savings, experience earning and new playlist playing.

Beginning Tuesday, February 24, the Variety Map Pack will be priced at 50% off the normal 800 / $10 admission fee. Then, on Friday, February 27, Infinity Ward will welcome gamers into the multiplayer mix by flipping the CoD4 double XP switch to the "ON" position. Finally, fourzerotwo himself will be pulling an all-nighter Friday night and adding a new Hardcore Headquarters playlist for the double XP killing shenanigans. It's a week-long Call of Duty 4 party, just without the booze, party streamers and all the post-party cleanup.

Gallery: Call of Duty 4: Variety Map Pack

JoystiqCoD4: 50% off Variety Maps, new playlist and double XP originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 Feb 2009 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>call-of-duty-4cod4double-xp-weekendinfinity-wardvariety-map-packWed, 18 Feb 2009 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii sales propel Call of Duty: World at War past COD4]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/17/wii-sales-propel-call-of-duty-world-at-war-past-cod4/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/17/wii-sales-propel-call-of-duty-world-at-war-past-cod4/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/17/wii-sales-propel-call-of-duty-world-at-war-past-cod4/#comments Chew on this: Call of Duty: World at War had greater combined US sales on current-gen consoles in its first three months of release than did Call of Duty 4. World at War achieved this milestone despite COD4 outselling it by nearly 400,000 Xbox 360 units during the comparable months. A rise in PS3 sales from COD4 to World at War -- just over 130,000 units -- helped to slightly offset this difference, but the introduction of a Wii version of World at War (COD4 had no such entry) tipped the scales in favor of the latest Call of Duty entry. In December alone, the Wii World at War (pictured) sold more than 366,000 units.

This trend spotting is a result of analyst Matt Matthews' work (published on Gamasutra) and seems to indicate that Wii is a profitable platform for third-party publishers; at least, for Activision, which had two multiplatform titles with Wii versions in the January NPD Top 10. As for our Xbox 360 and PS3 sales assumptions, uh, analysis? Gears of War 2 and Left 4 Dead definitely hindered World at War sales on Xbox 360 from November through January, while on PS3, there simply wasn't a strong resistance to choosing World at War as the holiday's go-to shooter. Will Modern Warfare 2 follow suit? We expect a surge in both PS3 and Xbox 360 enlisters -- but we're not sold on the concept of modern warfare on Wii ... and neither is Infinity Ward, we imagine.

JoystiqWii sales propel Call of Duty: World at War past COD4 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Feb 2009 14:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisioncall-of-dutycall-of-duty-4call-of-duty-world-at-warcod4infinity-wardnpdsalessales-datatreyarchTue, 17 Feb 2009 14:03:00 EST<![CDATA[BAFTA awards to settle the 'Super Mario Galaxy vs. COD4' debate]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/10/bafta-awards-to-settle-the-super-mario-galaxy-vs-cod4-debate/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/10/bafta-awards-to-settle-the-super-mario-galaxy-vs-cod4-debate/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/10/bafta-awards-to-settle-the-super-mario-galaxy-vs-cod4-debate/#comments
Also, sponsored by GAME

Alright, perhaps "debate" is a somewhat enthusiastic label for a question none of us have ever seriously considered. Which is more worthy of a prestigious award -- the cratered theater of war in Activision's Call of Duty 4, or the smiling planetoids of Super Mario Galaxy? We can't come up with a way to decide, which is precisely why we're grateful that the GAME British Academy Video Games Awards (for games that are sold by GAME) have decided to lump both into the "Best Game" category:
  • Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare
  • Fable II
  • Fallout 3
  • Grand Theft Auto IV
  • Rock Band
  • Super Mario Galaxy
Before you object to the British Academy of Film and Television Arts' seemingly outdated choices, note that the period of valid entries spans October 26, 2007 to December 31, 2008 due to an earlier delay in ceremonies. The messy result, of course, is two Novembers duking it out. You'll see the rest of the quality-riddled categories after the break.

Continue reading BAFTA awards to settle the 'Super Mario Galaxy vs. COD4' debate

JoystiqBAFTA awards to settle the 'Super Mario Galaxy vs. COD4' debate originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Feb 2009 16:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AwardsBAFTAbest-of-2008Call-of-Duty-4COD4GAMESuper-Mario-GalaxyTue, 10 Feb 2009 16:54:00 EST<![CDATA[CoD4 logs 10 million 360 gamers since launch]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/08/cod4-logs-10-million-360-gamers-since-launch/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/08/cod4-logs-10-million-360-gamers-since-launch/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/08/cod4-logs-10-million-360-gamers-since-launch/#commentsFiled under:

Call of Duty 4 community manager fourzerotwo decided to post some statistical CoD4 fun. And after some quick number crunching, we learn that (on the Xbox 360 alone) over 10 million unique players have logged onto Xbox Live to game it up on CoD4 since launch. Not too shab. Taking into account the PS3's unique player numbers, CoD4 has logged over 14 million players total.

Look below for more statistical CoD4 number fun, including the number of gamers who have completed Airplane on Veteran difficulty. Mr. Xav de Matos wanted us to point out that he helped contribute to the 2.8% completion rate. He so l33t.
  • 71.1% have completed F.N.G.
  • 68.8% have completed Cargo Ship
  • 46.5% have beaten the game on any difficulty.
  • 2.8% have completed Airplane on Veteran difficulty.

JoystiqCoD4 logs 10 million 360 gamers since launch originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Jan 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>call-of-duty-4cod4infinity-wardxbox-liveThu, 08 Jan 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gears 2 stagnant on Xbox Live activity chart despite DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/24/gears-2-stagnant-on-xbox-live-activity-chart-despite-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/24/gears-2-stagnant-on-xbox-live-activity-chart-despite-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/24/gears-2-stagnant-on-xbox-live-activity-chart-despite-dlc/#commentsFiled under:

That Combustible map pack didn't seem to ignite much passion into Gears of War 2, as the shoe-in for Best Shooter Involving a Chain Saw-infused Rifle Award remains numero quartro on the Xbox Live activity chart for last week. The game was also 4th place the week prior, and 3rd place for two consecutive weeks before that. Far from being a bad position, but it's certainly not dominating the service like its predecessor.

Staying strong at top is Halo 3, followed by the Call of Duty: World at War and CoD4, respectively. The promotional Dash of Destruction managed to take 6th place, and somehow bumped Fallout 3 from 8th to oblivion. Full list after the break.

[Via Xbox 360 Fanboy]

Continue reading Gears 2 stagnant on Xbox Live activity chart despite DLC

JoystiqGears 2 stagnant on Xbox Live activity chart despite DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Dec 2008 23:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>call-of-dutycall-of-duty-4call-of-duty-world-at-warcod4codwawgears-of-war-2halo-3xboxXbox-360xbox-livexbox-live-activityWed, 24 Dec 2008 23:58:00 EST<![CDATA[COD4 seemingly complete, Infinity Ward focused on future]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/12/cod4-seemingly-complete-infinity-ward-focused-on-future/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/12/cod4-seemingly-complete-infinity-ward-focused-on-future/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/12/cod4-seemingly-complete-infinity-ward-focused-on-future/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Still holding out for new Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare maps and playlists? We're sorry to be the ones to tell you this, but there aren't anymore maps or playlists. None. Go home, kid. Over at the official Xbox forums, Infinity Ward community manager Robert "fourzerotwo" Bowling rather strongly suggested that the development team has moved on from COD4 and is gearing up for its next project, whatever that may be.

Bowling also discussed the issue of balance, perception and DLC. In his words, "If you include [the maps] out of box (shipped with game for no extra cost) then it's just ignored and people demand more. If you instead, decide to get the game out and then worry about beefing up the map selection via DLC, people say ... 'this should have been included in the shipped game.'"

We hear ya buddy, now how about six more COD4 map packs?

[Via Gamer Limit]

JoystiqCOD4 seemingly complete, Infinity Ward focused on future originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Dec 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>call-of-duty-4call-of-duty-6cod4cod4-dlccod6dlcinfinity-wardmodern-warfarePCPS3Xbox-360Fri, 12 Dec 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Barrie teen runs away from home, parents blame online games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/24/barrie-teen-runs-away-from-home-parents-blame-online-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/24/barrie-teen-runs-away-from-home-parents-blame-online-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/24/barrie-teen-runs-away-from-home-parents-blame-online-games/#commentsFiled under:


For nearly two-weeks 15-year-old Brandon Crisp has been missing after running away from his home. The Barrie, Canada, teen stormed out of his house during the Canadian Thanksgiving weekend when his parents took away his Xbox 360, arguing that his excessive play of Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare was affecting his sleep and social skills.

According to earlier reports, Brandon told his parents he would run away if his system was not returned and, in an effort to "call his bluff," his father helped the teen pack his belongings. Brandon's parents now fear that he has been "lured by gamers" through the Xbox Live gaming service, "It could be organized crime or someone involved in Internet gambling. Pedophiles can stalk kids through these games," Brandon's father told The Star.

While it's easy to argue how Xbox Live is being misrepresented in this situation the fact remains that Brandon, who purchased Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare -- an M Rated title intended for gamers 17 and above -- with his own Christmas money, is still missing and his family is completely distraught. We hope for his safe return home.

JoystiqBarrie teen runs away from home, parents blame online games originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Oct 2008 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brandon-crispcall-of-duty-4call-of-duty-4-modern-warfarecod4missingtoronto-starFri, 24 Oct 2008 09:15:00 EST<![CDATA[PSN Thursday: Fracture demo, COD4 map sale]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/18/psn-thursday-fracture-demo-cod4-map-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/18/psn-thursday-fracture-demo-cod4-map-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/18/psn-thursday-fracture-demo-cod4-map-sale/#commentsFiled under: , ,


This week is fairly quiet for the PSN update. The demo for the incredibly well-promoted title Fracture becomes available, along with the demo for the big game from a couple weeks back, Mercenaries 2. For those who haven't yet picked up the map pack for Call of Duty 4, it's on sale this week for a measly $5. The full list of additions can be found after the break.

The European PSN update can be found over at PS3 Fanboy. Go say hello, they miss you and give great hugs.

Continue reading PSN Thursday: Fracture demo, COD4 map sale

JoystiqPSN Thursday: Fracture demo, COD4 map sale originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 18 Sep 2008 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>call-of-duty-4cod4fracturePS3psnpsn-storepsn-thursdayPSPThu, 18 Sep 2008 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Call of Duty 4 is $40; Double XP weekend coming soon]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/15/call-of-duty-4-is-40-double-xp-weekend-coming-soon/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/15/call-of-duty-4-is-40-double-xp-weekend-coming-soon/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/15/call-of-duty-4-is-40-double-xp-weekend-coming-soon/#commentsFiled under: ,


Now you really have zero excuse not to own the instant classic Call of Duty 4. Amazon has the Game of the Year Edition listed at $39.99 with free shipping; interestingly enough, this price isn't listed on the their main page for the game. Rather, you have to click on the Used and New section to find the discounted price. A look around the internet shows the game still at the $59.99 price point, so take advantage of this offer here.

In other CoD4 news, some of your might have heard this past weekend was Double XP weekend for Xbox 360 owners of the game. It looks like PS3 owners will be getting the same treatment. According to Infinity Ward's Robert Bowling, our version of the event was delayed due to "schedule conflicts" and will begin sometime near the 18th. We should "expect some of the same benefits and festivities" as the 360 version of the event, such as 50% off the Variety Map Pack. The exact details are coming later in the week, so stay tuned.

JoystiqCall of Duty 4 is $40; Double XP weekend coming soon originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 15 Sep 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisioncall-of-duty-4cod4infinity-wardMon, 15 Sep 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Play CoD4 with Infinity Ward, earn XP and save]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/13/play-cod4-with-infinity-ward-earn-xp-and-save/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/13/play-cod4-with-infinity-ward-earn-xp-and-save/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/13/play-cod4-with-infinity-ward-earn-xp-and-save/#commentsFiled under:


In about 30 minutes, members of Call of Duty 4's development team from Infinity Ward will be logging onto Xbox Live to pwn some n00bs game with fans of CoD4 in an Xbox.com sponsored Game with Developers event. An event that goes hand in hand with the double XP weekend and the Variety Map Pack being discounted 50% for the weekend.

Around nine Infinity Ward employees including artists, studio heads and the one and only Fourzertwo will be playing CoD4 TODAY from 3-7:00PM eastern. Make the jump for a listing of gamertags and be sure to spam the heck out of their Live inboxes. We're sure they'd love you for that.

JoystiqPlay CoD4 with Infinity Ward, earn XP and save originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 13 Sep 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>call-of-duty-4cod4game-with-dvelopersgwdinfinity-wardmodern-warfarexbox-liveSat, 13 Sep 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Double XP, half-price maps invade Modern Warfare this weekend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/11/double-xp-half-price-maps-invade-modern-warfare-this-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/11/double-xp-half-price-maps-invade-modern-warfare-this-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/11/double-xp-half-price-maps-invade-modern-warfare-this-weekend/#commentsFiled under: ,


Attention cyber-soldiers: Infinity Ward has dropped word that the Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare Variety Map pack will be made available for half price (400MS points) this weekend. Attempting to gain popularity for the struggling title, players will also be able to earn Double XP during ranked games beginning September 12, 12AM PDT and running through September 14 at midnight -- the same time-frame for the discounted maps.

If you'd like to show your support for a title that barely made a splash during its release downloading the four map package would be a nice start. Infinity Ward needs your help and are even offering Limited Edition Prestige gamerpics for free as yet another bonus. Save a developer. Help this struggling franchise. Oh, wait. We were thinking of Soldier Of Fortune for some reason. Never mind, Modern Warfare sold like a bajillion copies.

Ed. Note: Bajillion is SO a word.

JoystiqDouble XP, half-price maps invade Modern Warfare this weekend originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Sep 2008 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>call-of-duty-4call-of-duty-4-modern-warfarecod4dlcdouble-xpdownloadable-contentinfinity-wardmodern-warfarexbox-live-marketplaceThu, 11 Sep 2008 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Call of Duty 4 getting double XP Sept. 13-14]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/04/call-of-duty-4-getting-double-xp-sept-13-14/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/04/call-of-duty-4-getting-double-xp-sept-13-14/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/04/call-of-duty-4-getting-double-xp-sept-13-14/#commentsFiled under: , ,


When the Joystiq staff goes back to Call of Duty 4, it's usually because we're tired of getting our asses handed to us on a little silver platter in practically every other first-person shooter. Before too long we pine for the one game we've played enough that we're not embarrassed to admit to our team that we write about video games professionally.

But, according to Infinity Ward spokesman Fourzerotwo, we'll have additional reason to go back Sept. 13-14, when CoD 4 will be offering up double XP on PSN and Xbox Live. Come, play with us, and tremble before our staggering (and doubly rewarding) moderate competence.

JoystiqCall of Duty 4 getting double XP Sept. 13-14 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Sep 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisioncall-of-duty-4cod4double-xpfourzerotwoinfinity-wardPS3psnXbox-360xbox-liveThu, 04 Sep 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[CoD4 double XP weekend planned, new playlist release a possibility]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/04/cod4-double-xp-weekend-planned-new-playlist-release-a-possibili/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/04/cod4-double-xp-weekend-planned-new-playlist-release-a-possibili/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/04/cod4-double-xp-weekend-planned-new-playlist-release-a-possibili/#commentsFiled under:


Fresh from his travels to Seattle for the Penny Arcade Expo, Infinity Ward's own fourzertwo posted an update on his blog, announcing a Call of Duty 4 double XP weekend that they have planned. The weekend of double XP is scheduled to run from September 13th through the 14th and, even though the weekend fun has nothing to do with the upcoming CoD4 playlists, fourzertwo mentions that it's their goal to release them prior to the event. So, there's a distinct possibility that we'll be experiencing twice the XP and new CoD4 playlists in a few week's time. Keep those toes crossed.

JoystiqCoD4 double XP weekend planned, new playlist release a possibility originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Sep 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>call-of-duty-4cod4infinity-wardThu, 04 Sep 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New COD4 playlists inch toward release]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/new-cod4-playlists-inch-toward-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/new-cod4-playlists-inch-toward-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/new-cod4-playlists-inch-toward-release/#commentsFiled under:


Infinity Ward community guru fourzerotwo has once again posted an update on the upcoming Call of Duty 4 playlists in production. Fans will be disappointed to hear that we still don't know when the new playlists will actually be implemented. Still, fourzerotwo drops some info on new playlists and where they currently stand as far as testing. One interesting note is that there are some playlists in testing that would actually require a patch to implement, which may be more than Infinity Ward's current schedule can handle. Still, there are some playlists that might not require a patch, so we're hopeful that we'll actually get to see them soon. Check out descriptions of each new mode at fourzerotwo's blog. (be sure to check out Hardcore Ricochet, in which friendly fire damage is reflected back to the team killer).

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqNew COD4 playlists inch toward release originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Aug 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisioncall-of-dutycall-of-duty-4cod4infinity-wardWed, 20 Aug 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[CoD4 takes back Xbox Live top spot]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/cod4-takes-back-xbox-live-top-spot/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/cod4-takes-back-xbox-live-top-spot/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/cod4-takes-back-xbox-live-top-spot/#commentsFiled under: ,

Just because we LOVE to stir up fanboy feelings and create all kinds of drama, we say: Call of Duty 4 manhandles Halo 3, taking the Xbox Live crown with unforgiving force! Because it's a better game! Yeah! ;)

Evil fanboy feud creation feelings aside, Major Nelson's most played games on Xbox Live list does list CoD4 as the most played Live game, dethroning Bungie's Halo 3. What's the reason? We aren't exactly sure, maybe it has something to do with an abnormally cool Guatemalan offshore breeze or the abnormally high bread prices. Speculate away and be sure to express you deepest, truest and most unforgiving fanboy feelings about the news. Not like we had to tell you to.

JoystiqCoD4 takes back Xbox Live top spot originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Aug 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bungiebungie-studioscall-of-duty-4cod4halo-3infinity-wardxbox-liveWed, 20 Aug 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Red team go ... get me a piece of this CoD4 cake!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/red-team-go-get-me-a-piece-of-this-cod4-cake/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/red-team-go-get-me-a-piece-of-this-cod4-cake/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/red-team-go-get-me-a-piece-of-this-cod4-cake/#commentsFiled under:


One of our X3F tipsters, Amanda, showcased her baking rank by crafting this Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare inspired cake for her stepfather. Going so far as to list his rank and gamertag (sorry for the influx of Friend Requests you're about to get, General!), this cake goes the extra mile. Also, it looks delicious which is a trait all cakes should be required to have. Now Amanda, some of our birthday's are coming up and we'd like to know if you can create a cake for us based on this Photoshop of Peter Molyneux jumping up and down in his race car bed? That would be delicious!

JoystiqRed team go ... get me a piece of this CoD4 cake! originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cakecall-of-duty-4cod4deliciousWed, 20 Aug 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Call of Duty 4 playlists in the works]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/19/new-call-of-duty-4-playlists-in-the-works/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/19/new-call-of-duty-4-playlists-in-the-works/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/19/new-call-of-duty-4-playlists-in-the-works/#commentsFiled under: , ,

cod4
In his latest report from Infinity Ward HQ, community confidant Fourzerotwo brings word that the Call of Duty 4 battlefront could see some changes soon. No less than eight new multiplayer playlists are in development, of which four are currently being tested, and at least one can pass through the servers without a patch: Hardcore Headquarters. But we're taking a keen interest in another playlist, Hardcore Ricochet, which turns teamkillers' attacks against them. It's like we're rubber, they're glue -- whatever they shoot, bounces off us and ... burrows deep into their treacherous guts!

Peep the full descriptions and statuses of all the planned playlists on Fourzerotwo's blog.

[Thanks, Michael]

JoystiqNew Call of Duty 4 playlists in the works originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Aug 2008 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>call-of-dutycall-of-duty-4cod4infinity-wardmultiplayerplaylistPS3psnXbox-360xbox-liveTue, 19 Aug 2008 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[360 Deals: 1600 MS points for $15 and more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/10/360-deals-1600-ms-points-for-15-and-more/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/10/360-deals-1600-ms-points-for-15-and-more/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/10/360-deals-1600-ms-points-for-15-and-more/#commentsFiled under:

It's the week Xbox Live Arcade purchasers have been looking forward to, because Target stores are selling 1600 Microsoft points cards for the oh so nice price of $15. But that's not all, they also have CoD4, Battlefield: Bad Company or Army of Two for $50 and are also giving away $40 gift cards with the purchase of any Xbox 360 console and Madden 09. Best Buy has a similar deal, where if you buy an Xbox 360 console and Madden 09 they'll throw in a free wireless controller. Other than that and Turok for $30, Best Buy's 360 deals are kind of lacking this week. Over at Circuit City, they're selling CoD4 for $40, Gears of War for $30, Juiced for $15, and giving away a free mini football with Madden 09 or a free $5 gift card if you purchase Madden 09 online. Finally, Circuit City is handing out free $30 gift card with the purchase of any Xbox 360 console.

Happy shopping and be sure to stock up on those cheap Microsoft points, because as you're well aware, Castle Crashers is releasing soon!

Joystiq360 Deals: 1600 MS points for $15 and more originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 10 Aug 2008 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>army-of-twobest-buycircuit-citycod4dealsdiscountsmadden-09madden-nfl-09microsoft-pointstargetSun, 10 Aug 2008 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bungie: Halo can learn from Call of Duty 4]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/06/bungie-halo-can-learn-from-call-of-duty-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/06/bungie-halo-can-learn-from-call-of-duty-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/06/bungie-halo-can-learn-from-call-of-duty-4/#commentsFiled under: , ,


"We have a lot to learn from their success too, they did some very innovative things to keep people going and their experience-rewards system was something that we paid a lot of attention to." Is that any way to talk about your main Xbox Live competitor? Speaking to GamesIndustry.biz, Bungie's Lead AI Programmer, Damian Isla, had quite a few nice things to say about Infinity Ward's ridiculously successful shooter, Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare.

Isla joins a chorus of reviewers in praising the game's single-player campaign for its tight pacing and scripting, praising the developers for doing "a hell of a job with their set pieces, of scripting certain moments that they were really sure the player was going to actually see and experience first hand." Though Isla notes that Halo 3's gameplay is heavily dependent on simulation (meaning in-game physics and reactions, not reality), it still "has a lot to learn" from Call of Duty 4's tunnel of fun approach.

With Infinity Ward's next project rumored to be a sci-fi shooter, it seems the studios might soon be trading places outside of the Xbox Live rankings.

JoystiqBungie: Halo can learn from Call of Duty 4 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Aug 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BungieCall-of-Duty-4COD4FPSHaloHalo-3Halo3Infinity-WardPS3Xbox-360Xbox-LiveWed, 06 Aug 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bungie admits they can learn from CoD4]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/06/bungie-admits-they-can-learn-from-cod4/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/06/bungie-admits-they-can-learn-from-cod4/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/06/bungie-admits-they-can-learn-from-cod4/#commentsFiled under:

Talking to GamesIndustry.biz, Bungie Studios' Lead AI Programmer, Damian Isla, talked about Halo 3 and Call of Duty 4's Xbox Live rivalry, admitting that they can learn a lot from CoD4's scripted single player experiences.

"We have a lot to learn from their success too," Isla admitted, "they [Infinity Ward] did some very innovative things to keep people going and their experience-rewards system was something that we paid a lot of attention to." Talking specifically about CoD4's single player events, Bungie's Isla mentioned that "it's a great game and single player obviously is fantastic" even going as far as to say that "the way that they use those moments to craft the player experience...Halo has a lot to learn from." Learning from CoD4? Yeah, why not? We don't think anyone could keep a straight face while calling either CoD4 or Halo 3 craptacular games as each has something to offer. Group hug!

JoystiqBungie admits they can learn from CoD4 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Aug 2008 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bungiebungie-studioscall-of-duty-4cod4halo-3infinity-wardWed, 06 Aug 2008 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[New COD4 playlists are worthy, still 'in testing']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/30/new-cod4-playlists-are-worthy-still-in-testing/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/30/new-cod4-playlists-are-worthy-still-in-testing/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/30/new-cod4-playlists-are-worthy-still-in-testing/#commentsFiled under:


Infinity Ward community head fourzerotwo has informed the masses that all four of the new Call of Duty 4 playlists tested the weekend before last have made the cut and will soon find their way into the game. The four new playlists on the way are:
  • Bare-Bones Team Deathmatch
  • Hardcore HQ
  • Multi-Bomb Search and Destroy
  • Hardcore FFA
Harcore HQ and FFA are fairly self-explanatory, as they are simply more hardcore versions of standard gametypes. They include higher damage and no HUD, so tactics are key. Multi-Bomb Search and Destroy, unsurprisingly, gives all memebers of the attacking team a bomb for their planting pleasure. Bare-Bones Team Deathmatch may be the most intriguing of the bunch, as it removes all perks and kill streak rewards. In other words, you can't blame all your deaths on enemies that poop grenades when they die.

The new playlists are currently "In Testing," so there is no ETA on exactly when the playlists will arrive, though fourtwozero promises to keep everyone up to date on their progress.

[Via Evil Avatar]

Source -- New Playlists - Status / Process
Source -- Playlist Status Update (causes earthquake)

JoystiqNew COD4 playlists are worthy, still 'in testing' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 Jul 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisioncall-of-dutycall-of-duty-4cod4cod4-playlistsinfinity-wardWed, 30 Jul 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo 3 holds onto its newly found Xbox Live crown]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/30/halo-3-holds-onto-its-newly-found-xbox-live-crown/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/30/halo-3-holds-onto-its-newly-found-xbox-live-crown/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/30/halo-3-holds-onto-its-newly-found-xbox-live-crown/#commentsFiled under: ,

For the second week in a row, Halo 3 has successfully defended its golden "most played Xbox Live game" crown from the angry, desperate hands of Call of Duty 4. Major Nelson just posted the Xbox Live activity for the week of July 21st, where GHIII makes the list at 5th most played game, Gears of War at 4th, GTAIV at 3rd, CoD4 at a respectable 2nd and Halo 3 sitting atop everyone in 1st. Looks to us like we have a heated Xbox Live popularity contest a brewing. Quick, pop some popcorn!

JoystiqHalo 3 holds onto its newly found Xbox Live crown originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 Jul 2008 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acitvisonbungiebungie-studioscall-of-duty-4cod4halo-3infinity-wardxbox-liveWed, 30 Jul 2008 08:45:00 EST<![CDATA[New Call of Duty 4 playlists being tested this weekend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/13/new-call-of-duty-4-playlists-being-tested-this-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/13/new-call-of-duty-4-playlists-being-tested-this-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/13/new-call-of-duty-4-playlists-being-tested-this-weekend/#commentsFiled under: ,

Next weekend, Infinity Ward community manager Robert "Fourzerotwo" Bowling is hosting private Call of Duty 4 matches to test out four new playlists: Bare-Bones Team Deathmatch (no perks, no kill streak rewards), Hardcore HQ (increased damage, no HUD elements and friendly fire on), Multi-Bomb Search and Destroy (every attacking team member has a bomb) and Hardcore Free-For All (extra damage, no HUD, no health regeneration). If you want to participate, send fourzerotwo a message over Xbox Live.

JoystiqNew Call of Duty 4 playlists being tested this weekend originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 13 Jul 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>call-of-duty-4cod4infinity-wardXbox-360Sun, 13 Jul 2008 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[COD4 playlist changes in the pipeline]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/13/cod4-playlist-changes-in-the-pipeline/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/13/cod4-playlist-changes-in-the-pipeline/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/13/cod4-playlist-changes-in-the-pipeline/#commentsFiled under:

Considering how long the game has been out now, we're glad that Infinity Ward is keeping up with its community and making sure that they continue to play. Over at IAMfourzerotwo's blog he's updated readers on the playlists that'll be "in testing" over the weekend. The best and most liked of the lot will be added to the playlists in the next update. The four playlists that'll be tested include Multi-bomb Search and Destroy and Hardcore HQ. The full run down with playlist descriptions are listed after the break.

Continue reading COD4 playlist changes in the pipeline

JoystiqCOD4 playlist changes in the pipeline originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 13 Jul 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisioncall-of-dutycall-of-duty-4cod4infinity-wardmatchmakingSun, 13 Jul 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Infinity Ward rewarded with new IP]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/07/infinity-ward-rewarded-with-new-ip/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/07/infinity-ward-rewarded-with-new-ip/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/07/infinity-ward-rewarded-with-new-ip/#commentsFiled under:

When the rumor went around that the next Call of Duty from Infinity Ward would be going sci-fi, there was some who said that the described game might be an entirely new IP. We still don't know about the sci-fi part yet, but the new IP part looks pretty solid. Their deal with Activision was renegotiated (they 've got enough clout to do that these days) to give them a chance to do "a unique new IP by Infinity Ward, that we'll have complete control over."

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqInfinity Ward rewarded with new IP originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 07 Jul 2008 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionactivision-blizzardcall-of-dutycall-of-duty-4cod4infinity-wardMon, 07 Jul 2008 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Entertainment Weekly lists the classic games from the last 25 years]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/22/entertainment-weekly-lists-the-classics-of-the-last-25-years/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/22/entertainment-weekly-lists-the-classics-of-the-last-25-years/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/22/entertainment-weekly-lists-the-classics-of-the-last-25-years/#commentsFiled under:

In its historic 1000th issue, Entertainment Weekly made a point to name the new classics of the last 25 years. While EW took everything from movies to tech to task, writers Geoff Keighley, Wook Kim and Gary Eng Walk clawed through the last 25 years of gaming to list the industry's most important releases. Two Xbox-exclusive titles landed in the top 25 of the 50 title list, at number 11 the classic 2001 Xbox launch title Halo: Combat Evolved from Bungie and ranking in at number 20 was Epic's Gears of War.

Other strong Xbox released titles on the list included Grand Theft Auto IV (#9), BioShock (#28), Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic (#30), Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare (#38), Psychonauts (#43), Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time (#45), Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion (#47) and Madden NFL 2005 (#50).

What are the most important titles in your gaming life and how do you think this list stacks up as a collection of gaming's new classics in the last 25 years? The full 50 title listing can be found after the jump.

Continue reading Entertainment Weekly lists the classic games from the last 25 years

JoystiqEntertainment Weekly lists the classic games from the last 25 years originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 22 Jun 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bioshockbungiecod4entertainment-weeklyewgears-of-wargtaivnew-classicsoblivionSun, 22 Jun 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: COD6 goes sci-fi?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/21/rumor-cod6-goes-sci-fi/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/21/rumor-cod6-goes-sci-fi/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/21/rumor-cod6-goes-sci-fi/#commentsFiled under:

To be honest, we almost feel a bit dirty posting this rumor. The game that for all intents and purposes, is COD5, is currently still being teased, and there's already rumors about the next game? Indeed there is, thus the faintly dirty feeling. Apparently an Infinity Ward team member spoke to someone from TalkPlaystation.com and told them that the company is at work on a new sci-fi title that may or may not see reveal at E3.

With Call of Duty: World at War returning to the familiar territory of WWII, and the series' current hit staking the claim of Modern Warfare it would seem to make sense that Infinity Ward would want to jump things into the future. If this ends up being accurate (heck, they could be working on a non-COD sci-fi game too) let's hope Infinity Ward can do better than some other popular franchises that have used a futuristic setting. We can't help but get flashbacks of the ill-fated Battlefield: 2142 ...

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqRumor: COD6 goes sci-fi? originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 21 Jun 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>call-of-dutycall-of-duty-4call-of-duty-5call-of-duty-6call-of-duty-world-at-warcod4cod5cod6codwawinfinity-wardSat, 21 Jun 2008 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Reminder: COD4 map pack now available free for PC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/reminder-cod4-map-pack-now-available-free-for-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/reminder-cod4-map-pack-now-available-free-for-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/reminder-cod4-map-pack-now-available-free-for-pc/#commentsFiled under: ,

Just a reminder, the Call of Duty 4 Variety Map Pack is now available for PC. The four maps - Broadcast, Chinatown, Creek and Killhouse - are included with with the 1.6 patch (282 MB) and offered free of charge (thanks to Nvidia). Direct your browser to Big Download for the file. Also be sure to check out X3F's video tour of the new maps.

Gallery: Call of Duty 4: Variety Map Pack

JoystiqReminder: COD4 map pack now available free for PC originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Jun 2008 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>call-of-duty-4cod4map-packPCvariety-map-packThu, 05 Jun 2008 16:55:00 EST<![CDATA[CoD4 doubles your XP all weekend long]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/cod4-doubles-your-xp-all-weekend-long/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/cod4-doubles-your-xp-all-weekend-long/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/cod4-doubles-your-xp-all-weekend-long/#commentsFiled under: ,

Fresh off of a 10 million unit milestone, Mr. Call of Duty 4 himself, fourzerotwo just announced that this weekend, beginning Friday, June 6th, Infinity Ward will be answering Bungie's recent shenanigans with their own CoD4 double XP weekend. Even better, the double XP fun will be enabled for ALL online playlists. W00t! Fourzerotwo also mentioned that they've recently tweaked the map rotation, lessening the frequency of Variety Map Pack maps and giving every map (new and old) the same odds of being selected. Now run along kids and have a happy double XP weekend!

[Thanks, Phil J W]

JoystiqCoD4 doubles your XP all weekend long originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Jun 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisioncall-of-duty-4cod4infinity-wardThu, 05 Jun 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Call of Duty 4 reclaims Xbox Live top spot, double XP this weekend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/call-of-duty-4-reclaims-xbox-live-top-spot-double-xp-this-weeke/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/call-of-duty-4-reclaims-xbox-live-top-spot-double-xp-this-weeke/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/call-of-duty-4-reclaims-xbox-live-top-spot-double-xp-this-weeke/#commentsFiled under: ,


It appears some of the enthusiasm for Grand Theft Auto IV's multiplayer has waned, as the title has dropped to number three for top Xbox Live titles for the week of May 26. Old stalwarts Halo 3 and Call of Duty 4 raced to reclaim the throne, with the latter title once again taking the top spot.

To express gratitude, Infinity Ward's iamfourzerotwo said that this weekend will provide double experience points for all COD4 players. That will apply to both Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3. Additionally, the variety map packs will now show up as often as normal maps (they are currently twice as likely to now).

JoystiqCall of Duty 4 reclaims Xbox Live top spot, double XP this weekend originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Jun 2008 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>call-of-dutycall-of-duty-4cod4halo-3Xbox-360xbox-liveWed, 04 Jun 2008 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[COD4 has now sold over 10 million copies]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/cod4-has-now-sold-over-10-million-copies/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/cod4-has-now-sold-over-10-million-copies/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/cod4-has-now-sold-over-10-million-copies/#commentsFiled under:

Talk about successful. In an industry driven by sales numbers, Infinity Ward's premier shooter, Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare, has now sold over 10 million units world-wide. While those numbers are undoubtedly impressive (according to IW only 10 games since 2000 have sold so well) they are for all platforms and IW doesn't know the exact numbers for the individual SKU's, though they did note that the game had been the most successful on 360 and that they hope to sell even more copies of the game this winter ....

With such excellent sales what are the odds that we won't see COD5 until spring 2009? Would COD4 be enough of a mainstay shooter to keep you satisfied for the rest of the year if Activision decides to ride out the long tail of the fourth game's sales?

[Thanks Jonah]

JoystiqCOD4 has now sold over 10 million copies originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Jun 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionactivision-blizzardcall-of-duty-4cod4infinity-wardWed, 04 Jun 2008 09:00:00 EST