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[Rumor: Respawn game exclusive to next Xbox]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/30/rumor-respawn-game-exclusive-to-next-xbox/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/30/rumor-respawn-game-exclusive-to-next-xbox/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/30/rumor-respawn-game-exclusive-to-next-xbox/#comments The first game from Respawn Entertainment, the studio formed by former Infinity Ward heads Jason West and Vince Zampella, is reportedly exclusive to the next-generation Xbox. According to Kotaku sources, Microsoft's coup keeps the unannounced game off Sony and Nintendo platforms. One source told the site there'll also be an Xbox 360 version.

One of Kotaku's sources says Respawn's game is, surprise surprise, a multiplayer shooter, with battles featuring giant mechanical walkers called Titans - it was recently revealed Respawn trademarked the term 'Titan.'

Whatever it is, Respawn's game is under EA's co-publishing Partners program. Despite the label reportedly shuttering, the studio says everything's going "fine" for its next game. Presumably in response to Kotaku's story, the studio's official account tweeted "Wow! Lots of speculation tonight. Great to see excitement about our project but you'll all have to wait for E3 for details."

So... not May 21, then? Having said that, there's no denial there either. In any case, we've reached out to Respawn for comment.

JoystiqRumor: Respawn game exclusive to next Xbox originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 30 Apr 2013 09:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>exclusivitymicrosoftnext-xboxrespawn-entertainmentxboxTue, 30 Apr 2013 09:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Exclusive launches are sometimes necessary, Papo & Yo creator says]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/22/exclusive-launches-are-sometimes-necessary-papo-and-yo-creator-sa/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/22/exclusive-launches-are-sometimes-necessary-papo-and-yo-creator-sa/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/22/exclusive-launches-are-sometimes-necessary-papo-and-yo-creator-sa/#comments Papo & Yo creator Exclusive launches 'can be good'Papo & Yo cost developer Minority Media $1.5 million to make, and its exclusive release on PS3 in 2012 earned back some of that cost. It came to Steam last week, and during GDC creator Vander Caballero told us the PC launch should "cover the whole cost of the game." If it weren't for Sony and that exclusive PS3 launch, however, Papo & Yo may have never seen the light of day.

"If you are an independent you have zero marketing money," Caballero told Kotaku. "You have nothing. Then you need someone to support your project. So, if someone asks you for exclusivity and it's going to help you to bring out your product into the market, I think that can be good. Sometime, I think it's the only way to get something out."

Caballero's next game with Minority is Silent Enemy, an exploration and puzzle game set in a harsh, mystical Canadian tundra, but with a message about bullying. Minority doesn't have any platforms locked down for Silent Enemy just yet, but Caballero is considering PS4, PC, tablets and Ouya.

JoystiqExclusive launches are sometimes necessary, Papo & Yo creator says originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 22 Apr 2013 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>exclusiveExclusivityminorityminority-mediapapo-and-yoplaystationps3PSNsilent-enemySONYSTEAMMon, 22 Apr 2013 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlefield 3 expansions to arrive one week earlier on PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/battlefield-3-expansions-to-arrive-one-week-earlier-on-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/battlefield-3-expansions-to-arrive-one-week-earlier-on-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/battlefield-3-expansions-to-arrive-one-week-earlier-on-ps3/#comments Not unlike Microsoft and Activision's agreement to give Xbox early access to Call of Duty DLC, Sony and EA have arranged for Battlefield 3 expansions to arrive with an exclusive lead on PlayStation 3. However, Battlefield 3's expansions will stay exclusive to the PS3 for a shorter period: one week per expansion.

The deal kicks off with "Back to Karkand," which launches "later this year" and brings with it four Battlefield 2 maps (including Wake Island) rebuilt in the Frostbite 2.0 engine. The expansion comes free with first-run copies of Battlefield 3 for all platforms, though it now seems it won't be available for download immediately.

The Battlefield 3 beta opens on PC (check the system requirements), PS3 and Xbox 360 on September 29.

JoystiqBattlefield 3 expansions to arrive one week earlier on PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>back-to-karkandbattlefield-3dicedlceaea-diceelectronic-artsexclusivityplaystationps3psnThu, 22 Sep 2011 10:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Second 'South Park' game headed exclusively to Xbox 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/12/second-south-park-game-headed-exclusively-to-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/12/second-south-park-game-headed-exclusively-to-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/12/second-south-park-game-headed-exclusively-to-xbox-360/#comments It's been nearly two years since the last South Park-branded title landed on Xbox Live Arcade, but apparently at least one more is in the works exclusively for Microsoft's digital marketplace. In speaking with 345 Games creative director Prithvi Virasinghe during a recent Ugly Americans: Apocalypsegeddon preview, I couldn't help but wonder what other Comedy Central properties his studio might work on next -- perhaps one of the network's most famous?

"Right now, South Park is actually in a first-party deal with Microsoft Studios, who published the first game, and they're doing a second game as well," he explained. Apparently South Park: Let's Go Tower Defense Play! was just the first of two titles in the deal, set to expire whenever that follow-up title launches. "After that, that first-party exclusivity window expires, and we get a shot of taking that back," Virasinghe explained.

Though his team is up to the challenge, Virasinghe also has some other projects he's interested in first, particularly a couple of ideas involving Stephen Colbert (as well as Colbert's hilarious side character, Tek Jansen). That said, the developer needs to leap some hurdles before that can happen, the least of which is deciding whether or not its game idea fits well with the brand. According to him, "It has to be the right combination of game idea meets property." Personally, I'm holding out for Tek Jansen.

JoystiqSecond 'South Park' game headed exclusively to Xbox 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Jul 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>345-gamesexclusivitymicrosoftprithvi-virasinghesouth-parkxblaxboxxbox-live-arcadeTue, 12 Jul 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Invizimals developer Novarama working exclusively with Sony]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/29/invizimals-developer-novarama-working-exclusively-with-sony/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/29/invizimals-developer-novarama-working-exclusively-with-sony/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/29/invizimals-developer-novarama-working-exclusively-with-sony/#comments Invizimals developer Novarama didn't just announce a new game in its PSP augmented reality series today: it announced a new deal with Sony that will ensure more of the Spanish company's games will appear on Sony systems.

The AR-focused developer has entered into an exclusivity agreement with SCEE. That means that the PlayStation Vita fighter Reality Fighters will remain a Vita-only experience, and Novarama will also begin working on new games for Sony.

"For a studio geared towards innovation like Novarama, having a partner of the size and experience of Sony is the perfect blend," said Novarama CEO Dani Sánchez-Crespo. "By extending our partnership, we will continue making kids believe in invisible creatures and turning gamers into video game characters." Put that way, it sounds a lot more like the work of some evil mastermind. "Soon, all the children will believe in invisible creatures! And then, the world is ours!"

JoystiqInvizimals developer Novarama working exclusively with Sony originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Jun 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>exclusivitynovaramaplaystationplaystation-vitaps3pspreality-fighterssceesonyWed, 29 Jun 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: EA and NFL restructure exclusivity deal amid work stoppage fears]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/report-ea-and-nfl-restructure-exclusivity-deal-amid-work-stoppa/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/report-ea-and-nfl-restructure-exclusivity-deal-amid-work-stoppa/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/report-ea-and-nfl-restructure-exclusivity-deal-amid-work-stoppa/#comments The NFL has cut EA a break, reports SportsBusiness Journal, reducing the Madden maker's licensing fee by an undisclosed amount for the next football season, which remains in jeopardy as the current collective bargaining agreement between the league and the players' union is set to expire March 4 and, so far, renegotiations have been futile. If a new CBA is not drawn between the two sides before the current contract expires, it could result in a work stoppage -- in other words, no football come fall.

While such an outcome wouldn't prevent EA from releasing Madden 12 in early August (the series' traditional launch window leading up to the start of the NFL regular season), it could certainly devalue the expensive NFL-related licenses that EA has secured. Last October, anticipating such a scenario, EA reportedly requested a $30 million dollar discount on its payment owed to the NFL this year. The five-year deal inked in 2008 between the two sides is believed to be worth "well into nine figures" -- that's hundreds of millions -- and is likely the NFL's most lucrative non-TV contract, according to SBJ.

"For one of our core partners in a difficult environment, we say let's look at this, and maybe it makes some sense to extend something out longer and give our partner some relief in the short term, but gain something on the back end," Jacksonville Jaguars owner Wayne Weaver, chairman of the NFL's business ventures committee, told SBJ, alluding to the nature of the restructured deal with EA. According to SBJ's sources, EA has been granted some form of relief for this year's fees, and its NFL exclusivity deal has been extended one year through the 2013-14 football season.

EA maintains a separate, concurrent contract with the NFL Players Association for which the players' union receives $30-40 million, annually (according to the union's Labor Department filings), for the publisher's right to use NFL players in its games. It's as yet unknown if EA has sought to reduce its fees owed to the union this year or extend the deal another year to remain consistent with the companion contract with the league. EA declined our request to comment on its NFL-related licensing agreements for this article.

JoystiqReport: EA and NFL restructure exclusivity deal amid work stoppage fears originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Feb 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dseaea-sportsexclusivitylicenselicensingmadden-nfl-12microsoftmobilenflnflpanintendoplaystationps3pspsonywiixboxTue, 15 Feb 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Homefront DLC maps to debut on Xbox Live, 'Suburb' exclusive to Xbox]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/14/homefront-map-packs-to-debut-first-on-xbox-live-suburbs-exclu/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/14/homefront-map-packs-to-debut-first-on-xbox-live-suburbs-exclu/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/14/homefront-map-packs-to-debut-first-on-xbox-live-suburbs-exclu/#comments Homefront is following in Call of Duty's footsteps in more ways than one. As Activision has done for its FPS franchise, THQ is partnering up with Microsoft to offer Xbox Live members first access to all future downloadable content for Homefront, Xbox's Major Nelson announced today at a THQ press event for the game. In addition, the Xbox 360 version of the game will include an exclusive map at launch, dubbed "Suburb."

Additional details about the map and partnership will be revealed on "Inside Xbox" next week.

JoystiqHomefront DLC maps to debut on Xbox Live, 'Suburb' exclusive to Xbox originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 Jan 2011 09:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcexclusivityhomefrontmicrosoftthqxblmxboxxbox-liveFri, 14 Jan 2011 09:56:00 EST<![CDATA['Buzz' dev Relentless expands digital strategy as PlayStation exclusivity deal ends]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/07/buzz-dev-relentless-expands-digital-strategy-as-playstation-ex/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/07/buzz-dev-relentless-expands-digital-strategy-as-playstation-ex/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/07/buzz-dev-relentless-expands-digital-strategy-as-playstation-ex/#comments Relentless Software, the UK-based creator of the Buzz! trivia games for PlayStation platforms, is now free from an exclusivity deal with Sony and looking to pursue a digital distribution strategy that would bring its games to a wide range of internet-connected devices. "That's my aim," co-founder Andrew Eades told GamesIndustry.biz, "to make games for anyone who has a TV."

"The whole retail market is becoming very much about pillar titles for a hardcore audience," said Eades, citing Activision's perennial standout Call of Duty and its difficult to match, multimillion dollar budget as good reason to move away form the disc-based business, "so we have to find a new way to get to our audience, and that is digital, episodic, various different platforms, including PlayStation -- that remains our main platform."

The platform-exclusivity deal with Sony ended on good terms last year, and Relentless will continue to look to PlayStation Network for long-term revenue in its new, fremium-based Buzz!: Quiz Player iteration, along with ongoing sales of its self-published episodic mystery game, Blue Toad Murder Files, which debuted on PSN in late 2009. (It was released for PC in November.)

"The interesting thing we've found out with Blue Toad is that, almost a year after its first launch, we're still selling it in different ways," Eades explained. "We've had a sixty percent uplift in sales through the Advent Calendar Theme Bundle pack. You can't do this on disc." This realization appears to be the guiding light in the studio's new focus to expand its digital distribution efforts to more platforms. Relentless is at work on a new game for next year, to be followed by the launch of a new IP.

"PlayStations and Xboxes have a place under many people's TVs, but there's also satellite boxes, Apple TVs, Google TVs, internet-connected TVs," Eades observed. "They all have more and more computational power, and that's all we need -- that processor power to deliver our games and the internet connection to distribute them -- and we're in the living room just as any broadcast TV is."

[Image source: Relentless]

Joystiq'Buzz' dev Relentless expands digital strategy as PlayStation exclusivity deal ends originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 07 Jan 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>andrew-eadesblue-toad-murder-filesbuzzbuzz-quiz-playerdigital-distributionexclusivitypcplaystationps3psnrelentless-softwaresonyukFri, 07 Jan 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[G4 signs three-year exclusive deal for E3 TV rights]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/29/g4-signs-three-year-exclusive-deal-for-e3-tv-rights/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/29/g4-signs-three-year-exclusive-deal-for-e3-tv-rights/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/29/g4-signs-three-year-exclusive-deal-for-e3-tv-rights/#comments Television network G4 announced today that it has signed a three-year deal to be the official broadcaster of E3. The partnership between the network and the mega-convention's organizer, the ESA, extends a relationship the two have renewed annually for the past several years, relieving G4 of having to ask the awkward "wanna go steady (again)" question for a time.

The Comcast-owned network's multi-year agreement gives G4 access to "uninterrupted press conference coverage" and all the other flare you'd expect from the moving-picture medium. All you DirecTV subscribers, of course, will have to head over to a friend's house to watch the coverage, since the satellite TV company recently dropped the network -- or you could just join on us these little ol' internets for our own extensive E3 coverage with written words.

JoystiqG4 signs three-year exclusive deal for E3 TV rights originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Nov 2010 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3e3-2011exclusivityg4televisiontvMon, 29 Nov 2010 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[First Fallout: New Vegas DLC 'exclusive' to Xbox 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/18/first-fallout-new-vegas-dlc-exclusive-to-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/18/first-fallout-new-vegas-dlc-exclusive-to-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/18/first-fallout-new-vegas-dlc-exclusive-to-xbox-360/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Bethesda has confirmed that Fallout: New Vegas will -- obviously -- be supported by post-release DLC. As was the case with Fallout 3 add-ons, the first new content for New Vegas will be "exclusive" to Xbox Live when it's released this holiday. Though no plans to feature the same content on PSN (or PC, for that matter) have been announced, what happens to be exclusive to Xbox Live doesn't always stay exclusive to Xbox Live -- odds are New Vegas DLC will (eventually) be ported to PS3.

"We're excited to continue the partnership between Bethesda and Microsoft, and build on the success of the game add-ons released for Fallout 3 on Xbox Live," said Bethesda mouthpiece Pete Hines in an announcement. "Fans will once again be able to continue their experience in the Fallout universe with the add-on packs planned for after the launch of the game."

Bethesda will reveal more details about New Vegas DLC in "the coming weeks."

Continue reading First Fallout: New Vegas DLC 'exclusive' to Xbox 360

JoystiqFirst Fallout: New Vegas DLC 'exclusive' to Xbox 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Oct 2010 12:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BethesdaBethesda-SoftworksDLCexclusivityFallout-New-Vegasmicrosoftpcplaystationps3psnxblmxboxxbox-liveMon, 18 Oct 2010 12:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Lara Croft exclusive to Xbox Live Arcade for 'exactly' four weeks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/16/lara-croft-exclusive-to-xbox-live-arcade-for-exactly-four-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/16/lara-croft-exclusive-to-xbox-live-arcade-for-exactly-four-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/16/lara-croft-exclusive-to-xbox-live-arcade-for-exactly-four-week/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Crystal Dynamics previously announced plans to launch Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light on XBLA, PSN and PC this summer. Since the XBLA release is now part of Microsoft's Summer of Arcade promotion, however, PSN and PC players are going to have to wait a bit longer for their date with Lara. When asked how long the game's timed exclusivity on Xbox Live would last, Crystal Dynamics' Karl Stewart told Eurogamer, "Well, for exactly four weeks, really. The agreement with Microsoft is, in order to participate in their hugely successful Summer of Arcade promotion there is a window of exclusivity. That window of exclusivity is a set four weeks."

Lara Croft is slated to launch August 18 on Xbox Live Arcade, which would mean that the PSN and PC releases are essentially on hold until September 15. Stewart explained that it's ultimately "up to the first parties and the likes of Steam to agree that's the best date for us." It's worth noting that September 15 is a Wednesday, and North American PSN updates occur on Tuesday now, which could mean Lara Croft's release in the region could get pushed back another week.

Gallery: Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light

JoystiqLara Croft exclusive to Xbox Live Arcade for 'exactly' four weeks originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Jul 2010 11:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicsexclusivitylara-croft-and-the-guardian-of-lightmicrosoftpcplaystationps3psnrelease-datesteamxblaxboxxbox-liveFri, 16 Jul 2010 11:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Modern Warfare 2 Resurgence Map Pack detailed [Update: Now with screens!]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/14/modern-warfare-2-resurgence-map-pack-detailed-by-bowling/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/14/modern-warfare-2-resurgence-map-pack-detailed-by-bowling/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/14/modern-warfare-2-resurgence-map-pack-detailed-by-bowling/#comments
Click image to amuse yourself with some new screens

Xbox Live's Major Nelson had Infinity Ward "creative strategist" Robert Bowling on his podcast recently to talk about the upcoming Resurgence Map Pack for Modern Warfare 2. Set to release on June 3 on Xbox Live, the pack will be priced at 1200 ($15) -- the same as its predecessor, the Stimulus Pack. Resurgence will feature maps old and new, including two Call of Duty 4 maps and three new locations:
  • Vacant -- the wide open Russian office complex from CoD4
  • Strike -- the urban town surrounded by hotels from CoD4
  • Carnival -- an abandoned carnival area with a Ferris wheel, fun house and other attractions
  • Trailer Park -- full of "super tight corridors" and featuring a pool ("Mobile Estates," Bowling calls it)
  • Fuel -- a "sniper haven" based in and around an oil refinery
Bowling says that the new maps will be tied to specific playlists, just like the Stimulus maps. With the Resurgence collection, however, it's possible that all of the maps will be available in every playlist, as long as "demand is high." And, as with the previous pack, the new maps will be exclusive to Xbox 360 for a short time before coming to PC and PS3.

Update: We've got images of all five maps, which you can check out in the gallery below or by clicking the image in the post. Enjoy!

Gallery: Modern Warfare 2 (Resurgence Pack)

StrikeFuelTrailer ParkVacantCarnival

JoystiqModern Warfare 2 Resurgence Map Pack detailed [Update: Now with screens!] originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 May 2010 09:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisioncall-of-dutycall-of-duty-modern-warfare-2dlcexclusivityinfinity-wardmap-packMicrosoftmodern-warfare-2pricingresurgenceresurgence-map-packresurgence-packrobert-bowlingXbox-360Fri, 14 May 2010 09:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Hydrophobia now timed exclusive on XBLA, heading to PC and retail later]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/30/hydrophobia-now-xbla-timed-exclusive-heading-to-pc-and-retail/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/30/hydrophobia-now-xbla-timed-exclusive-heading-to-pc-and-retail/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/30/hydrophobia-now-xbla-timed-exclusive-heading-to-pc-and-retail/#comments After this week's surprising reveal that "Xbox exclusive" Hydrophobia would also dribble onto PlayStation Network, IncGamers' clarification isn't quite as shocking. The site has confirmed that the game will be a timed-exclusive for Xbox Live Arcade and then eventually will be released not just for PSN but PC and retail, as well. Oddly, the retail release does not include a PS3 version.

The site spoke with developer Dark Energy Digital head Pete Jones, who spilled details that the PSN release of Hydrophobia will arrive for digital purchase "at some point," though he couldn't detail when that or the PC iteration would become available (when we followed up, a DED rep told us that, due to "contractual reasons," no further details could be provided on the PSN or PC releases). Even more unfortunate? Without even a murky release window, we're totally up the proverbial creek without a paddle for this kicker. How about this? Water joke.

Gallery: Hydrophobia

JoystiqHydrophobia now timed exclusive on XBLA, heading to PC and retail later originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 Apr 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dark-energy-digitalexclusivityMicrosoftpete-jonesplaystation-networkpsnretailwaterxblaXbox-360xbox-live-arcadeFri, 30 Apr 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Theory co-founder explains studio's move to multiplatform development]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/05/ninja-theory-co-founder-explains-studios-move-to-multiplatform/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/05/ninja-theory-co-founder-explains-studios-move-to-multiplatform/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/05/ninja-theory-co-founder-explains-studios-move-to-multiplatform/#commentsWith the release of Heavenly Sword, Ninja Theory had seemingly established itself as a high-profile, PS3-exclusive developer. However, the studio's next game, Enslaved, a gritty action version of the same classical Chinese story Journey to the West from which Dragon Ball originates, is going to be multiplatform.

"Heavenly Sword came out pretty early on the PS3," Ninja Theory co-founder Tameem Antoniades explained to CVG, "and we sold, I think, a million and a half copies, and that's still not enough as an independent studio to break even. The publisher potentially breaks even at that point, but the developers don't. It's just that when so many people have Xbox -- I mean over half the market or more has Xbox 360s -- why limit yourself to one platform?" Without a clearly dominant platform like the PlayStation 1 or 2, he said, it's difficult to profit from console-exclusive games.

"I think people are going to hold off for a long time before getting on to the next generation," Antoniades added. "I think everyone's licking their wounds and releasing new games to try and keep this current generation going. I'm hoping it doesn't come too soon either because we want to make at least a couple more games in this generation." Squeezing in a few more current-gen releases sounds like a good plan -- it'd be tough to be totally broke and have to start developing on new hardware again.

JoystiqNinja Theory co-founder explains studio's move to multiplatform development originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Apr 2010 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>console-exclusiveenslavedenslaved-odyssey-to-the-westexclusivityheavenly-swordMicrosoftnamco-bandaininja-theorytameem-antoniadesXbox-360Mon, 05 Apr 2010 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rock Band nabs 'exclusive' Jimi Hendrix experience]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/26/rock-band-nabs-exclusive-jimi-hendrix-experience/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/26/rock-band-nabs-exclusive-jimi-hendrix-experience/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/26/rock-band-nabs-exclusive-jimi-hendrix-experience/#comments
[Jimi's last Guitar Hero appearance]
True, he once exclusively rocked the World Tour, but there just ain't no telling with that Jimi Hendrix. Today, following the reveal of the Jimi Hendrix Experience DLC album Axis: Bold as Love for the Rock Band platform, MTV Games and Harmonix announced, "Jimi Hendrix's music is now exclusive to Rock Band with more songs coming to its industry-leading platform in the future." (An MTV Games spokesperson reiterated to Joystiq that "moving forward" Hendrix music-game releases will be exclusive to Rock Band, but declined to offer specifics on the deal with Experience Hendrix LLC.)

Previously, several Hendrix tracks, including a DLC pack, and a digitized version of the, uh, "No. 1 guitarist of all time" were featured in Guitar Hero: World Tour, which, due to licensing restrictions, can't be imported into other Guitar Hero games. Even a Hendrix-themed Guitar Hero game was once allegedly in the works, having apparently slipped into the sea.

JoystiqRock Band nabs 'exclusive' Jimi Hendrix experience originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Mar 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcexclusivityexperience-hendrix-llcharmonixhendrixjimi-hendrixMicrosoftmtv-gamesNintendorock-bandrock-band-2rock-band-3WiiXbox-360Fri, 26 Mar 2010 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Microsoft exclusivity deals funding PS3 development in Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/16/rumor-microsoft-exclusivity-deals-in-japan-funding-ps3-developm/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/16/rumor-microsoft-exclusivity-deals-in-japan-funding-ps3-developm/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/16/rumor-microsoft-exclusivity-deals-in-japan-funding-ps3-developm/#comments
 What do Vampire Rain, Tales of Vesperia, Lost Planet, Eternal Sonata and Enchanted Arms all have in common? Aside from being developed in Japan, every one of them landed on the Xbox 360 "exclusively" first, only getting ported (sometimes with additional content) to the PlayStation 3 a year or so later. One Japanese developer claims the exclusivity agreements are being used in lieu of financial help from Sony for game development -- essentially saying that Japanese developers are using Microsoft's capital to develop temporarily exclusive 360 games with the intention of inexpensively porting the games to PS3 later on.

"It was easier developing for the Xbox 360 ... if you sign an exclusive contract with Microsoft (you won't release it on other hardware for a year or similar), they will give you a lot of cash for development," read a Japanese developer's post (the original post has since been removed), translated by Sankaku Complex (site NSFW). "As a result, first you develop for the Xbox, reducing development costs. But the Xbox version won't sell [in Japan]. So they port it to the PS3 ... it's cheaper as you already have the game done."

Though they didn't work on it, the developer claims to have seen this policy in practice with Tales of Vesperia. As Kotaku points out, it's quite possible that the dev did see such a practice on Vampire Rain, a game the mystery developer says they worked on.

JoystiqRumor: Microsoft exclusivity deals funding PS3 development in Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessenchanted-armseternal-sonataexclusivityjapanMicrosoftnamcorumorsankaku-complextales-of-vesperiavampire-rainXbox-360Wed, 16 Sep 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Splinter Cell Conviction designer on delay, exclusivity, Natal ... and bowel control?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/29/splinter-cell-conviction-designer-on-delay-exclusivity-natal/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/29/splinter-cell-conviction-designer-on-delay-exclusivity-natal/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/29/splinter-cell-conviction-designer-on-delay-exclusivity-natal/#comments
After teasing us with the carefully scripted Splinter Cell Conviction E3 demo -- for the umpteenth time -- lead designer Steve Masters commented on the game's current status as a "March quarter" release today at Ubisoft's "Holiday Preview" event (we'll be celebrating well into 2010, you know). Masters echoed CEO Yves Guillemot in saying, "really [the delay] was just a decision to allow us to polish up and really deliver the experience that the fans are looking for."

"Right now we're about to hit alpha -- literally this week," Masters confirmed. "So that means the levels are largely complete, and now it's just time to polish them up and get them looking really great, and playing really well." The current (and what better be final) iteration of the fifth Splinter Cell game has been in development for roughly eighteen months, according to Masters.

On the topic of platform exclusivity, the designer continued to tiptoe along Ubisoft's party line when it came to discussing the apparent arrangement with Microsoft. "I can't really go into the details there. All I can say is that we're really exploiting the full power of the Microsoft console here, and Microsoft has been tremendous in giving us a lot of support and really helping us to utilize the full power of the 360," Masters offered. "I don't think that we're ever gonna go to the PS3. But I can't confirm or deny it."

As for Project Natal and the future of the Splinter Cell franchise? "I would love to use Natal. I think there are a lot of very cool possibilities with that -- everything from doing outrageously interesting educational stuff to really-involving video games." Did he say, educational? Ah, so that's what exploring Milo is all about ... and here we thought it was just outrageous. "I've only had a very quick demo with [Natal]. I haven't had any serious, in-depth hands-on, but I know Ubisoft has been working with it."

Finally, Masters fielded our most pressing question ... Who would win in a fight: Sam Fisher or Jack Bauer? Masters emphatically declared Fisher the clear favorite given his superior sneaking abilities. But if the match-up was limited to a 24-hour time frame? "Bauer does have tremendous bowel control," Masters conceded. "I think that might be the tipping point in this battle."

JoystiqSplinter Cell Conviction designer on delay, exclusivity, Natal ... and bowel control? originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Jul 2009 17:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>badass-the-gamebowel-controldelaysexclusivityjack-bauerMicrosoftproject-natalsam-fishersplinter-cellsplinter-cell-convictionsteven-mastersubisoftubisoft-holiday-preview-2009Xbox-360Wed, 29 Jul 2009 17:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft's early faith in Team 17 is why Alien Breed hits XBLA first]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/20/microsofts-early-faith-in-team-17-is-why-alien-breed-hits-xbla/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/20/microsofts-early-faith-in-team-17-is-why-alien-breed-hits-xbla/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/20/microsofts-early-faith-in-team-17-is-why-alien-breed-hits-xbla/#comments While Team 17's upcoming Alien Breed renewal, Alien Breed Evolution, will be coming to XBLA, PSN and PC, VG247 has learned that the game will be arriving on XBLA a bit earlier than the other two. "It will come to PS3 and it will come to PC as well, but initially it'll be Live Arcade," Team 17's Martyn Brown said.

Why not release on all three platforms simultaneously from the get go? Brown says it has to do with Microsoft giving Team 17 a chance before anyone else would. "They showed a lot of faith in us early doors [British for "early on"] and that's kind of kept going really," Brown notes. He even goes as far as to call the relationship a "first-party publishing relationship" (which is the case for Team 17's other franchise, Worms, but not Alien Breed). Hey, Microsoft, you trying to put a ring on that finger?

Gallery: Alien Breed Evolution


[Via XboxGaming]

JoystiqMicrosoft's early faith in Team 17 is why Alien Breed hits XBLA first originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Jul 2009 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alien-breedalien-breed-evolutionAlien-Breed-Evolution-Episode-1exclusivitymartyn-brownMicrosoftpcpsnteam-17xblaXbox-360Mon, 20 Jul 2009 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[BioWare: EA owns Mass Effect IP (Translation: It could still come to PS3) [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/08/bioware-ea-owns-mass-effect-ip-translation-it-could-still-com/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/08/bioware-ea-owns-mass-effect-ip-translation-it-could-still-com/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/08/bioware-ea-owns-mass-effect-ip-translation-it-could-still-com/#comments
We've been doing a lot of wondering about BioWare lately: wondering what the company is going to do with the Wii; wondering what our saves from the first Mass Effect will do to the sequel. But most of all, we've been wondering if Mass Effect 2 will be making its way to the PlayStation 3, like its dragon-infused brother, Dragon Age: Origins. So we asked BioWare's Matt Atwood directly about the possibility of the game coming to PS3, to which he responded, "We've only announced 360 and PC. At this point we're really focused on those platforms."

We understand, Matt, but what about the intellectual property itself? Does EA own the Mass Effect name? "Yes. EA owns the rights to Mass Effect." And so, as far as exclusivity between Mass Effect and Microsoft, that doesn't exist? "That's right," he told us.

Update: Matt Atwood at BioWare just contacted us to clarify his statements from earlier today regarding Mass Effect 2's exclusivity to Xbox 360 and PC. He says, "It [exclusivity] actually does exist for Mass Effect 2. And beyond that, we haven't announced any plans."

JoystiqBioWare: EA owns Mass Effect IP (Translation: It could still come to PS3) [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Jul 2009 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareexclusivitymass-effectmass-effect-2matt-atwoodmicrosoftsonyWed, 08 Jul 2009 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ubisoft: Splinter Cell Conviction is 'true Microsoft exclusive']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/19/ubisoft-splinter-cell-conviction-is-true-microsoft-exclusive/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/19/ubisoft-splinter-cell-conviction-is-true-microsoft-exclusive/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/19/ubisoft-splinter-cell-conviction-is-true-microsoft-exclusive/#comments Now that the third-party playing field is supposedly "level," Microsoft looks to be making a play for the advantage, as Ubisoft continues to insist that Splinter Cell Conviction is "a true Microsoft exclusive title." We've heard this before, of course, but this time it's with more *ahem* conviction, as an Ubisoft UK Forum Manager declares there are "no plans to have Splinter Cell Conviction on other [console] platforms." The sentiment echoes the long drama surrounding Metal Gear Solid 4's exclusivity, and we have to imagine doubts about Conviction's exclusivity won't go down quietly, either.

Just as Metal Gear Solid has been associated with PlayStation (though not always exclusive to Sony platforms), Ubisoft calls Splinter Cell and Microsoft "historically linked," explaining that Conviction's exclusivity is based, in part, on "a 'link of heart.'" Aw, that's sweet -- and so is the check that Microsoft must have cut.

[Via VideoGamer.com]

JoystiqUbisoft: Splinter Cell Conviction is 'true Microsoft exclusive' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Jun 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>exclusivityMicrosoftsplinter-cellsplinter-cell-convictionubisoftXbox-360Fri, 19 Jun 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MGS Rising levels third-party playing field, Microsoft's Kim declares]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/17/mgs-rising-levels-third-party-playing-field-microsofts-kim-dec/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/17/mgs-rising-levels-third-party-playing-field-microsofts-kim-dec/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/17/mgs-rising-levels-third-party-playing-field-microsofts-kim-dec/#comments Someday, we'll talk about third-party exclusives like the way we talk about car phones, Laserdiscs and troll dolls -- a thing of the past. That someday could be sooner than you think, if Microsoft exec Shane Kim is to be believed. "[Microsoft has] said for a long time that a key part of our strategy with Xbox 360 was a level third-party playing field," Kim tells Gamasutra in a recent interview. "Now we've effectively done that with Metal Gear Solid [Rising] coming to the Xbox 360."

Short of a blank check from Microsoft or Sony -- like, what was the asking price for Agent exclusivity, you know? -- there's little incentive for a third-party publisher to release a big-budget game for only Xbox 360 or PS3. It's possible that third-party exclusives will flourish as small, downloadable games and DLC (though those GTA IV add-ons weren't cheap for Microsoft), but it's more likely that they'll diminish as cheap carnival games -- geddit? Of course, with Microsoft and Sony designing their own waggleware apparatuses, such low-grade third-party exclusives won't necessarily continue to be exclusive, either.

Still, Kim argues that "exclusive content is really important." And so, it's up to the first-party publishers to essentially unlevel the playing field with their own IPs. "[It's] really not about relying on third parties, because I don't think that that is sustainable, as we've proven," Kim concludes. "And it's up to each of us to differentiate on our own."

JoystiqMGS Rising levels third-party playing field, Microsoft's Kim declares originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>exclusivitymetal-gear-solid-risingmgs-risingmgsrmicrosoftshane-kimthird-partyXbox-360Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Just how exclusive is Splinter Cell: Conviction?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/just-how-exclusive-is-splinter-cell-conviction/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/just-how-exclusive-is-splinter-cell-conviction/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/just-how-exclusive-is-splinter-cell-conviction/#comments
If there's one definitive way to push publishers, developers and public relations personnel off balance, it's broaching the subject of console exclusivity. Begin the line of inquiry and you're sure to get darting eyes, an elongated "Wellllll ..." and an answer that crumples in on itself as soon as it's spoken. Perhaps it's appropriate that the topic of Splinter Cell: Conviction's exclusivity is steeped in a cloak-and-dagger mystery.

When asked if the ambitious Xbox 360 and PC stealth title was exclusive in the really real sense, producer Alex Parizeau simply stated, "It's exclusive," and admitted that it was a business arrangement with Microsoft. Prodding about timed exclusivity (a la BioShock and Fallout 3 DLC) didn't yield anything less enigmatic, so we turned to lead game designer Steve Masters. "As far as I know," he said, "this is completely exclusive."

Aha! Complete exclusive confirmed!

"But that may change in the future."

Oh. We suspect the game may make its way to PS3 eventually, but for now ... Wellllll ...

JoystiqJust how exclusive is Splinter Cell: Conviction? originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Jun 2009 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2009ExclusivityMicrosoftSplinter-CellSplinter-Cell-ConvictionTom-ClancyUbisoftXbox-360Wed, 03 Jun 2009 18:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Media Molecule's Evans doesn't regret LBP's Sony exclusivity]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/13/media-molecules-evans-doesnt-regret-lbps-sony-exclusivity/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/13/media-molecules-evans-doesnt-regret-lbps-sony-exclusivity/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/13/media-molecules-evans-doesnt-regret-lbps-sony-exclusivity/#comments
Media Molecule, creators of the AIAA-pwning LittleBigPlanet, haven't really caught a lot of flack from critics since their highly texturized platformer hit store shelves -- though many have questioned why the game wasn't released on multiple platforms, bolstering the ranks of the LBP community and fattening the wallets of the game's creators.

In a recent interview with Gamasutra, Media Molecule co-founder Alex Evans explained he doesn't regret making LBP a Sony-exclusive title. According to Evans, Sony put a lot of their eggs in the LBP basket, effectively putting the tiny developer "up on a pedestal," providing them with the "nurturing" they needed to succeed. As far as expanding the user base, Evans says he's holding out hope for a PS3 price drop. Aren't we all, pal.

JoystiqMedia Molecule's Evans doesn't regret LBP's Sony exclusivity originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Mar 2009 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>exclusivitylittlebigplanetmedia-moleculesonyFri, 13 Mar 2009 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EA's NASCAR exclusivity in question, sim series 'on hold']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/25/eas-nascar-exclusivity-in-question-sim-series-on-hold/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/25/eas-nascar-exclusivity-in-question-sim-series-on-hold/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/25/eas-nascar-exclusivity-in-question-sim-series-on-hold/#comments Throw up your caution flags if you've got 'em, folks. Word from the NASCAR News Wire is that EA's annual racing sim is "on hold," according to SportsBusiness Journal reporter Michael Smith. Backing up this claim, EA product marketing manager Randy Chase referred to the NASCAR sim series as "the old game" while describing the "lighthearted" appeal of the new Kart version of the franchise, which was released for Wii earlier this month.

Additionally, Blake Davidson, managing director of NASCAR's licensed products, has suggested that the company is currently considering the "best model" to tap into its gaming demographic, which may include licensing its rights to multiple publishers (EA has held exclusivity since 1997 -- correction: 2003; those rights expire this year). "Do we continue with an exclusive model or go nonexclusive? Do we need annual releases? This is a very important category for us," said Davidson of NASCAR games, which rank in the top five revenue-generating licenses for the business.

Update: "NASCAR Kart Racing on the Wii is the only NASCAR-licensed video game that will ship this year from EA Sports. Due to the family-friendly atmosphere of NASCAR, we felt that a title developed exclusively for the Wii platform was the best scenario for the NASCAR racing video game franchise and fans of racing alike," a representative from EA Tiburon, the NASCAR franchise developer, confirmed with Joystiq. Read how EA Tiburon answered a few ancillary questions about exclusivity after the break.

[Via FirstCuts -- thanks Chris! Image credit: tequilamike]

Continue reading EA's NASCAR exclusivity in question, sim series 'on hold'

JoystiqEA's NASCAR exclusivity in question, sim series 'on hold' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Feb 2009 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-sportsea-tiburonElectronic-Artsexclusivitynascarnascar-10nascar-2010racingsportsWed, 25 Feb 2009 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Capcom: 'all major titles' will be multiplatform going forward]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/11/capcom-all-major-titles-will-be-multiplatform-going-forward/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/11/capcom-all-major-titles-will-be-multiplatform-going-forward/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/11/capcom-all-major-titles-will-be-multiplatform-going-forward/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

sfiv
And it's gonna take a lot of 0s on the end of that check to convince Capcom otherwise. The company has reaffirmed its multiplatform development strategy to shareholders in its annual report released today. "As a measure to counter the soaring costs of software development for the next-generation consoles, which has been a cause for concern, we have shifted our focus to the multiplatform strategy," the report states. "Furthermore, in order to make this shift possible, we have implemented the company-wide use of our own base technology for software development tool, 'MT Framework.'"

If that message isn't clear enough for you, Capcom restates its commitment to spreading its seeds far and wide in the "Outlook for the Future" section of the report: "all major titles launched during the next fiscal year or thereafter will be developed as multiplatform games." Sounds like Wii owners can take this one of two ways: 1) Capcom is done giving Wii "major title" support; or 2) Bionic Commando, Street Fighter IV and Resident Evil 5 confirmed for Wii! (Don't hold your breath for the latter.)

[Via Shacknews]

JoystiqCapcom: 'all major titles' will be multiplatform going forward originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Sep 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingnewscapcomexclusivitymultiplatformPCPS3WiiXbox-360Thu, 11 Sep 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony doubtful about future exclusivity with publishers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/sony-doubtful-about-future-exclusivity-with-publishers/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/sony-doubtful-about-future-exclusivity-with-publishers/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/sony-doubtful-about-future-exclusivity-with-publishers/#commentsFiled under: , ,

heavy rain
PlayStation Europe boss David Reeves is on the verge of extending the long arm of Sony onto the mat and tapping out -- exclusivity is just getting too darned expensive. "I think we have to accept that exclusivity is not a thing of the past, but it is probably with publishers," Reeves told GamesIndustry.biz in a recent interview. Of course, Reeves is only referring to the millions upon millions of cash money papers console manufactures might be expected to fork over to a publisher for exclusivity these days. There is still hope in striking deals with developers that haven't been scooped under a corporate umbrella. (See Quantic Dream, for example.) "[Developers] need a little bit of funding, external development," Reeves explained, "In exchange, it's exclusive -- that works."

JoystiqSony doubtful about future exclusivity with publishers originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Aug 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>david-reevesexclusivityPS3PSPsonyTue, 26 Aug 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E308: Sony 'disappointed' by FFXIII for 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/18/e308-sony-disappointed-by-ffxiii-for-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/18/e308-sony-disappointed-by-ffxiii-for-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/18/e308-sony-disappointed-by-ffxiii-for-360/#commentsFiled under: ,


Sony Computer Entertainment America boss Jack Tretton discussed Sony's take on the recent announcement that Final Fantasy XIII will release simultaneously on the Xbox 360 with the PS3 with a round-table of journalists, including our own team at Joystiq. "Am I disappointed by it? Yes," Tretton told the group, adding: "Am I surprised by it? No." He was quick to stress that the game remains a PS3 exclusive in Japan, but that "seeing as there isn't that big of a [PS3] installed base in [there], I don't know how big of a coup that is for us."

Speaking on the subject of paying off publishers for exclusivity, Tretton told Joystiq "[Sony] invested so much money in the [PS3] hardware" that it simply "can't write checks for exclusive software."

While popular theory is that Microsoft paid Square Enix off for its recent handfull of upcoming releases, word around the industry campfire points at a decision made by Square Enix months ago to focus on multiplatform development that saw Final Fantasy XIII land on the Xbox 360. With a high install base and solid attach rate for the Xbox 360 in North America and Europe many developers are forgoing exclusivity in order to lessen the blow of "next-gen" game development. Capcom has been a prime example of this point with Devil May Cry 4; which saw better sales on the Xbox 360.

Regardless of the situation, Square Enix is happy to bring the experience to as many people as possible and as gamers we all should be too.

JoystiqE308: Sony 'disappointed' by FFXIII for 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Jul 2008 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>E3e3-08e3-2008e308exclusivityfinal-fantasy-xiiipay-offssquare-enixFri, 18 Jul 2008 10:45:00 EST<![CDATA[BioWare: Mass Effect 2 likely a timed Xbox 360 exclusive, PC version confirmed [updated]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/14/bioware-mass-effect-2-likely-a-timed-xbox-360-exclusive/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/14/bioware-mass-effect-2-likely-a-timed-xbox-360-exclusive/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/14/bioware-mass-effect-2-likely-a-timed-xbox-360-exclusive/#commentsFiled under: ,


When EA snapped up BioWare, common wisdom was that the game's main attractions would be ported to any system that would have them. But it seems that (for now, at least) that doesn't hold true for space opera Mass Effect. As BioWare senior manager Matt Atwood told CVG, "I believe we'll be Xbox 360 exclusive for at least a short period of time. We're still working out the details on that, but we've had a great relationship with Microsoft and done very well."

There's plenty of wiggle room here, of course, because there's no telling how long a "short period" is. But it's not like we blame them. Heck, if we had a game company, we'd promise Microsoft a "short period" of exclusivity on everything. That way, when we inevitably had to delay the PS3 version to make it work, we'd make some free coin on the deal. Everybody wins! ... Well, we'd win.

Update: Atwood continued to elaborate with Videogamer.com, confirming a PC version, saying "We haven't announced plans for timing on Mass Effect 2, period, so at this point we're not really ready to talk about it, but because we've got a really great PC fan base we think it's really important to deliver the PC experience as quickly as possible."

JoystiqBioWare: Mass Effect 2 likely a timed Xbox 360 exclusive, PC version confirmed [updated] originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 Mar 2008 09:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebreakingnewseaElectronic-Artsexclusivitymass-effectmass-effect-2microsoftXbox-360Fri, 14 Mar 2008 09:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Capcom VP of marketing talks PS3, exclusivity]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/11/capcom-vp-of-marketing-talks-ps3-exclusivity/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/11/capcom-vp-of-marketing-talks-ps3-exclusivity/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/11/capcom-vp-of-marketing-talks-ps3-exclusivity/#commentsFiled under:


Capcom received a lot of flak from the Sony fan community when it opted to cancel the PS3 version of Monster Hunter 3 and move it to Wii. It was seen as a continuation of anti-Sony efforts, which started with the publisher's devotion to the Xbox 360 with titles like Dead Rising and Lost Planet. Sony fans were further angered to see former PS3 exclusives, like Devil May Cry 4, become multiplatform titles. Some argued that Capcom's strong PS2 fanbase were being abandoned and ignored.

Of course, Capcom has no reason to pledge "allegiance" to Sony, as some overzealous fans may proclaim. With PS3 sales finally turning around, the publisher is ready to integrate PS3 strongly into its plans. Capcom VP or marketing, Nique Fajors, spoke to Next-Gen: "If the PS3 happened to have LittleBigPlanet, Gran Turismo 5 and Killzone 2 available within the launch window, we'd be having a very different conversation, because Sony would've had some traction a lot sooner. Our view is that Sony is building very strong momentum globally-last month, PS3 actually outsold the Wii in Japan. We're seeing good traction across the board. As Sony delivers their must-have first-party titles, we'll deliver what we consider must-have titles over the course of the next 12 months. We think it's going to be a very vibrant platform."

"As a company are very much committed to the PS3 as a global platform that we know can be successful in Japan, Europe and the United States," Fajors added. So long as PS3 continues to receive quality games from Capcom, PS3 fans have very little to worry about. However, will the PS3 ever receive an exclusive from the Japanese publishing giant? "Fundamentally, do I think [platform exclusivity] is dead? No, I don't believe it's dead. It goes back to economics, consumer interest and unique playability."

[Image credit: Ripten]

JoystiqCapcom VP of marketing talks PS3, exclusivity originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Dec 2007 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomexclusivityTue, 11 Dec 2007 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Yakuza 3 revealed for PlayStation 3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/12/yakuza-3-revealed-for-playstation-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/12/yakuza-3-revealed-for-playstation-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/12/yakuza-3-revealed-for-playstation-3/#commentsFiled under: ,

Though the report in the latest issue of Famitsu (which brought us this Eternal Sonata exclusivity nugget as well) doesn't specifically mention the Xbox 360, and even though IGN claims that Yakuza 3 will be a PS3 exclusive, we're not quite ready to call it an exclusive just yet.

Regardless of its status on that other console or its availability in a place that isn't Japan, Famitsu reveals that Yakuza 3 is indeed coming to the PlayStation 3 in Japan in the spring of 2008. And while they were at it, they thought you might be interested in knowing that it no longer takes place in the modern day, but rather in 1605 Edo period Japan. Don't live in Japan or own a PlayStation 3 but really want to play Yakuza 3? Don't know what to tell ya bub, we just work here.

[Via PS3 Fanboy]

JoystiqYakuza 3 revealed for PlayStation 3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Sep 2007 21:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Amusement-VisionexclusivityKenzanplaystationps3Ryu-ga-GotokuRyu-ga-Gotoku-KenzanSegaYakuzaYakuza-KenzanWed, 12 Sep 2007 21:16:00 EST<![CDATA[MGS4 on Xbox 360 'a few months' after PS3, says OXM Rumor Mole]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/19/mgs4-on-xbox-360-a-few-months-after-ps3-says-oxm-rumor-mole/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/19/mgs4-on-xbox-360-a-few-months-after-ps3-says-oxm-rumor-mole/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/19/mgs4-on-xbox-360-a-few-months-after-ps3-says-oxm-rumor-mole/#commentsFiled under: , ,


A reliable tipster has whispered in X3F's ear that the Rumor Mole section in the latest issue of OXM claims a "bankable source" confirmed that Metal Gear Solid 4 would be coming to the Xbox 360 "a few months" after the PS3 version. Of course, there have been dozens of rumors insisting this will be the case, but the "Official Xbox Magazine" carries some weight.

Last week, Konami executive Kazumi Kitaue said, "Since Metal Gear Solid was born for the PlayStation, we would like to keep it a PlayStation game. But we might have to take some steps," igniting renewed speculation that the title would, in fact, be coming to Microsoft's console. Obviously, an announcement wasn't made at E3 last week ... perhaps TGS07?

JoystiqMGS4 on Xbox 360 'a few months' after PS3, says OXM Rumor Mole originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Jul 2007 18:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ExclusivityKonamiMetalGearSolid4MGS4PS3RumorXbox-360Thu, 19 Jul 2007 18:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony's Jack Tretton: 'We don't buy exclusivity']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/03/sonys-jack-tretton-we-dont-buy-exclusivity/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/03/sonys-jack-tretton-we-dont-buy-exclusivity/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/03/sonys-jack-tretton-we-dont-buy-exclusivity/#commentsFiled under: ,

Perhaps now would be a good time to start? In an interview published within the latest issue of PSM, Sony Computer Entertainment America president, Jack Tretton, responds to the magazine's observation that there are fewer exclusive titles bound for (and to) the PlayStation 3 than there possibly could be. Mr. Tretton explains that Sony's approach to the acquisition of exclusives is different than those of competitors, perhaps in the sense that it's far more noble and devoid of unspeakable acts of bribery. Or perhaps in the sense that there isn't much of an approach at all.

"Yeah, 'fewer exclusives' is a term, and I don't know what makes an exclusive," says Tretton. "We have a very different approach to exclusives than some of our competitors. We don't buy exclusivity. We don't fund development. We don't, for the lack of a better term, bribe somebody to only do a game on our platform." That's correct, generating reasons for consumers to purchase and enjoy your console over others became a dubious, underhanded maneuver when you weren't looking. Since the publisher (of third-party titles such as Heavenly Sword and Lair) isn't willing to stoop that low, it would much rather "earn" exclusives. "We earn it by saying 'you can build a better game on our platform. If you focus your development on our platform, you will ultimately be more successful. We can try to partner up with you from a technological standpoint. We can try to partner up with you from a marketing standpoint. But just economically and technologically, this is the system that makes the most sense for you.'"

With money apparently not changing hands for that exclusive status, how do you suppose the system's comparatively small install base makes "the most sense" economically? No answer is obtained from Tretton, who then rightly notes that as a first-party, Sony has a very strong ability to provide plenty of exclusive titles. However, he warns that relying too much on first-party endeavors as Nintendo does might not make for a "healthy environment" and that conversely, Microsoft is "too dependent on the third-party community."

Grab a copy of this month's PSM to read the full interview.

[Via GamesRadar Forums]

JoystiqSony's Jack Tretton: 'We don't buy exclusivity' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Jul 2007 18:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Assassin's CreedAssassin'sCreedExclusivesExclusivityHazeJack TrettonJackTrettonPS3PSMSonyTue, 03 Jul 2007 18:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony's Phil Harrison: Don't judge console by launch titles]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/02/sonys-phil-harrison-dont-judge-console-by-launch-titles/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/02/sonys-phil-harrison-dont-judge-console-by-launch-titles/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/02/sonys-phil-harrison-dont-judge-console-by-launch-titles/#commentsFiled under: ,

Though pointing out the success of PlayStation 3 launch titles such as Resistance and Motorstorm, Sony executive Phil Harrison told Game Informer magazine (via GI.biz) that "it's always dangerous to judge any system by its launch lineup," while adding, "you only have to go back to the games that launched PlayStation 1 and Playstation 2."

Excellent observation! Indeed, if we remember when 1UP compared launch lineup review scores, there is a curious (albeit not stringent) trend: the two consoles on the list with the worst-reviewed launch lineups belong to consoles (Wii and PlayStation One) who have shown great success, whereas the opposite has also proven true (GameCube and Dreamcast had well-received launch titles).

Given the trend, then, we say Sony should embrace the notion of a lackluster PS3 launch. They've got a good statistical probability of pulling out this generation (especially if calls for a price drop don't go unheeded).

Continue reading Sony's Phil Harrison: Don't judge console by launch titles

JoystiqSony's Phil Harrison: Don't judge console by launch titles originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Jul 2007 13:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>exclusivitymultiplatformphil harrisonPhilHarrisonPS3sceasceesonySony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericaSony-Computer-Entertainment-EuropeMon, 02 Jul 2007 13:40:00 EST<![CDATA[More Rabbid stuff]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/24/more-rabbid-stuff/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/24/more-rabbid-stuff/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/24/more-rabbid-stuff/#commentsFiled under:

Ahhh, said they.First came the pictures, now come the words. Rayman: Raving Rabbids 2 has released more information in three days than Nintendo has, ever, on some of their games announced years ago. They could learn a thing or two.

First up are some hands-on impressions of the title, courtesy of IGN. The game almost essentially ditches the concept of playing as Rayman (he's in disguise as a rabbid) so that the game can focus on the carrot-loving crazies. More minigames have had competitive modes added (very few had this option in the original), and the game will allow you to customize your rabbid with a whole slew of ridiculous accessories. Awesome.

We also thought it would be worth mentioning that this time, Raving Rabbids 2 is completely exclusive to Nintendo platforms, the Wii and the DS. The whole insane minigame thing loses 68.3% of its appeal without the Wiimote anyway, so this makes perfect sense.

BAHHHHHHHH!

JoystiqMore Rabbid stuff originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 May 2007 09:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ExclusivityIGNLagomorphMinigamesRabbidsRavingRaymanUbidaysThu, 24 May 2007 09:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Mercenaries 2 on Xbox 360: a tale of the tape]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/22/mercenaries-2-on-xbox-360-a-tale-of-the-tape/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/22/mercenaries-2-on-xbox-360-a-tale-of-the-tape/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/22/mercenaries-2-on-xbox-360-a-tale-of-the-tape/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

would this hold up in court?
Either the developers of Mercenaries 2 play a lot of Xbox 360 in their downtime, or Pandemic is bringing its sandbox sequel to Microsoft's console. The chances are strong, even by admission, but Mercs 2 remains exclusively tied to PlayStation 3 -- for now. So guys, care to explain all the 360 equipment cluttering the office in your latest video blog? Perhaps it's time for the official announcement...

[Via GamersReports]

JoystiqMercenaries 2 on Xbox 360: a tale of the tape originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Dec 2006 13:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>360ExclusiveExclusivityMercenaries 2Mercenaries2Mercs 2Mercs2PandemicPS3Video blogVideoBlogXbox 360Xbox-360Xbox360Fri, 22 Dec 2006 13:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Konami: "MGS4 is exclusive to PlayStation 3." Us: "!"]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/18/konami-mgs4-is-exclusive-to-playstation-3-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/18/konami-mgs4-is-exclusive-to-playstation-3-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/18/konami-mgs4-is-exclusive-to-playstation-3-us/#commentsFiled under: ,

Well, what did you think they were going to say? Just days after the Metal Gear Solid 4 is coming to Xbox 360 rumorang swooshed back for yet another appearance in the console exclusivity spotlight, series publisher Konami reached its giant metaphorical arm out a similarly metaphorical window and snatched it from the air. Then they stomped it dead. Again.

Konami told CVG that "MGS4 is exclusive to PlayStation 3." Of course, this is similar (but not identical) to their statement to Joystiq last time we danced to this number, that "Metal Gear 4 is a PS3 title." Of course, we've seen other highly anticipated third-party titles go through a similar exclusivity Bermuda triangle, their exact whereabouts unknown for some time. We can't imagine what sort of high-powered, backroom negotiations would result in a third-party game as popular as MGS4 being relegated to a single new-gen platform, not to mention one that may be in short supply until as late as 2008 (according to some).

!

JoystiqKonami: "MGS4 is exclusive to PlayStation 3." Us: "!" originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Dec 2006 19:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ExclusivityKonamiMetal-Gear-Solid-4-Guns-of-the-PatriotsMGS4PS3Xbox-360Mon, 18 Dec 2006 19:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Pro Evo Soccer exclusivity proves enigmatic]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/08/29/pro-evo-soccer-exclusivity-proves-enigmatic/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/08/29/pro-evo-soccer-exclusivity-proves-enigmatic/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/08/29/pro-evo-soccer-exclusivity-proves-enigmatic/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Furious footie fans were quick to cry foul when Microsoft announced at the Leipzig Games Convention that Pro Evolution Soccer 6 was to be a 12-month, next-gen exclusive for the Xbox 360. The initial wave of anger has since been replaced with confusion, as several remarks from Konami seem to indicate that Microsoft was already celebrating a goal which they hadn't quite scored yet. Has Microsoft been caught in a lie or is this merely a case of misinterpretation and marketing hyperbole? The story thus far:
  • After the initial announcement, Konami shoots down claims that Pro Evolution Soccer 6 is exclusive to the Xbox 360, pointing out that the game is a planned "multi-platform release" in order to satisfy "as many people as possible." Konami was right to take issue, as Microsoft never claimed to have total exclusivity. The deal only encompasses next-generation platforms. That means the PS2 version, sure to be the most widely played one, remains unaffected.
  • Next, 1UP has a chat with series producer Shingo Takatsuka and triumphantly reveals that "Winning Eleven is not exclusive to Xbox 360." Well done, especially considering that Microsoft was speaking about Pro Evolution Soccer and not Winning Eleven. Same game, different regions. Microsoft is certainly to blame for not clarifying further, but nabbing Pro Evolution Soccer affects European territories, the only place where the series goes by that name.
  • Takatsuka goes on to say that Konami "never said exclusive for one year on the next-gen platforms. We said this year. We were agreed that it was this year." The agreement largely occurs by default, as the man admits that the PS3 entry in the series has no chance of being completed before 2007. Next Spring is the earliest date it could see release and even then, it would be the Japanese Winning Eleven first, followed by the European edition. Can Konami put together the European release before 12 months have elapsed? Absolutely, especially if they want to prove Microsoft wrong.
It would seem that Microsoft could be accused of being overly vague but not of being untruthful. Both Microsoft and Konami are correct and the confusion thus far is only due to different naming conventions and choice marketing words. Still, it'll be interesting to see which really lasts the longest -- Microsoft's 12 months or Konami's development time on a PS3 Pro Evolution Soccer 6. The race is on.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in.]

Read -- Microsoft's original announcement.
Read -- Konami denies 360 exclusivity.
Read -- Series producer chimes in on the situation.

JoystiqPro Evo Soccer exclusivity proves enigmatic originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 Aug 2006 17:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ExclusivityFootballKonamiLeipzig Games ConventionLeipzigGamesConventionPro Evolution SoccerProEvolutionSoccerPS3SoccerWinning 11Winning ElevenWinning11WinningElevenXbox-360Tue, 29 Aug 2006 17:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Assassin's "confirmed" for 360 and PC [update 1]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/07/04/rumor-assassins-confirmed-for-360-and-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/07/04/rumor-assassins-confirmed-for-360-and-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/07/04/rumor-assassins-confirmed-for-360-and-pc/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


A handful of European gaming sites (1, 2, 3), likely originating with French site Xbox-Gamer.net, have "confirmed" that the mystery of Assassin's Creed's exclusivity has been solved: it will be making it's way to both the Xbox 360 and PC, as well as the previously announced PS3 ...

... at least, according to an off the record comment (where's the reps name?) made to Xbox-Gamer.net at the recent IDEF 2006 expo held in Cannes. There was no information regarding any timed exclusivity for Sony's console. We all have our suspicions (hence the mystery) regarding Assassin's Creed's multi-platform prospects, but an unsourced comment made by a random Ubisoft representative is hardly confirmation (we've contacted Ubisoft for official confirmation). Until it shows up here (which it hasn't) we're enormously skeptical. And we dance ...

[Thanks to everyone that sent this in!]

[Update 1: PS3Land points us to the Ubi forums, where UK Community Manager UbiRazz writes, "Ubisoft have confirmed no such thing. Assassin's Creed will come on PlayStation 3 and at this time, no other platform has been confirmed." Funny enough, PS3Land headlined their post, "Ubisoft: Assassin's Creed Still PS3 Exclusive." Not yet fellas, not yet.]

JoystiqRumor: Assassin's "confirmed" for 360 and PC [update 1] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 Jul 2006 20:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Assassin's CreedAssassin'sCreedExclusivityPCPS3UbisoftUbisoft MontrealUbisoftMontrealXbox-360Tue, 04 Jul 2006 20:55:00 EST