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[Guitar Hero II gets three new international tunes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/16/guitar-hero-ii-gets-three-new-international-tunes/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/16/guitar-hero-ii-gets-three-new-international-tunes/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/16/guitar-hero-ii-gets-three-new-international-tunes/#commentsFiled under: ,

It's apparently International Day at Guitar Hero II HQ, and Activision is celebrating with three new downloadable tunes from outside the United States (who knew other countries made music?). First up is "Sin Documentos" by Los Rodriguez, a track that comes to us all the way from Spain. How exotic!

Next up is a French track by Pleymo called "Sept" which proves that no matter how loud your band is, no one will be intimated if you're singing in French. Finally, there's "Exile" by Germany's Sweden's Soilwork, which , let's be honest, probably would have been more intimidating in German had the good sense not to sing in Swedish. The good news with these tracks is that they're not bundled, the bad news is that, with each at 200 points, you're going to be paying for the privilege.
[Thanks, Grant]

JoystiqGuitar Hero II gets three new international tunes originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 16 Oct 2007 08:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisiondlcguitarheroiiXbox-360Tue, 16 Oct 2007 08:25:00 EST<![CDATA[GHII gets some heavy DLC tomorrow]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/19/ghii-gets-some-heavy-dlc-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/19/ghii-gets-some-heavy-dlc-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/19/ghii-gets-some-heavy-dlc-tomorrow/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Even with Guitar Hero III just month's away, it looks like Activision is still keen to milk its very lucrative downloadable content business. As such, the company has announced a new song pack for Guitar Hero II. Like the previous packs, the new song pack includes three new tracks for you to shred to your heart's content. The song pack includes the following tracks.
Lest you are unfamiliar with the new tracks, let's just say they're a bit on the hard side, especially compared to last month's DLC. According to ScoreHero, the new content will be available tomorrow at 2:00AM (PT) for the still onerous price of 500 MS Points. Now, if Activision would finally release some Fine Young Cannibals, we'd be in business.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqGHII gets some heavy DLC tomorrow originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 Sep 2007 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionghiiguitar-hero-iiguitarheroiiharmonixred-octaneredoctaneWed, 19 Sep 2007 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New Guitar Hero II DLC adds Trivium, Atreyu and Protest the Hero]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/19/new-guitar-hero-ii-dlc-adds-trivium-atreyu-and-protest-the-hero/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/19/new-guitar-hero-ii-dlc-adds-trivium-atreyu-and-protest-the-hero/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/19/new-guitar-hero-ii-dlc-adds-trivium-atreyu-and-protest-the-hero/#commentsFiled under: ,

Guys who we were always afraid of in high school rejoice! The new pack of Guitar Hero II songs dowloadable through Xbox Live tomorrrow morning (according to ScoreHero) is sure to bring a smile to the Endless Mikes of the world. 500 points will net you (careful of profanity in these links) Trivium's "Detonation," Atreyu with "Right Side of the Bed" and Protest the Hero's "Bury the Hatchet." Wow, why do we have the sudden urge to draw pentagrams on a binder with Wite-Out?

This pack comes a month after the last offering: A My Chemical Romancextravaganza, and we're wondering if they're still going to feel like trotting out the black paramilitary gear when they hear how loud their new neighbors can scream. Here's hoping everyone gets along just fine.

[Thanks, Pat]

JoystiqNew Guitar Hero II DLC adds Trivium, Atreyu and Protest the Hero originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 Sep 2007 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcguitarheroiiXbox-360xboxliveWed, 19 Sep 2007 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GH II downloadable tracks total 2 million]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/11/gh-ii-downloadable-tracks-total-2-million/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/11/gh-ii-downloadable-tracks-total-2-million/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/11/gh-ii-downloadable-tracks-total-2-million/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Today, Activision is touting the success of their Guitar Hero II downloadable content claiming to have sold 650,000 song packs via the XBLM, which totals over 2 million songs. Activision says that the "song packs are some of the most popular content on Xbox Live and are quickly becoming a very lucrative revenue stream" and announced that their latest GH II My Chemical Romance song pack has been purchased over 55,000 times. Cha-ching!

So, everything is peaches and fresh daisies over at the Activision camp as it pertains to the success of GH II's downloadable content, but we ask what happened to the community's complaints about the price? Back when the new tracks became available everyone was up in arms at the cost, refused to support the expensive content and even went as far as to create online petitions. But now it's looking like it was the vocal minority who were expressing their distaste or those who were complaining just gave in and purchased new tracks. We aren't sure if we should applaud the success of GH II's DLC or be somewhat sad that the "success" of it may just have solidified the high price point for the future. We guess we'll just have to see how it all works out when Rock Band puts its first round of content on the Marketplace.

JoystiqGH II downloadable tracks total 2 million originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Sep 2007 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ghiiguitarheroiiredoctanexblmTue, 11 Sep 2007 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[X3F Achievements 101: Star Power, Summon, Strangle, & Sniping]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/24/x3f-achievements-101-star-power-summon-strangle-and-sniping/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/24/x3f-achievements-101-star-power-summon-strangle-and-sniping/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/24/x3f-achievements-101-star-power-summon-strangle-and-sniping/#commentsFiled under:


While a little later than usual, there's another wonderful X3F Achievements 101 for you this week. A first for the column, a reader organized a gaming session in Shadowrun, and the latest downloadable content for Guitar Hero II threw some Achievements that are now easier to get, if you're willing to pay for the content. We're also testing out a new timeslot, posting the column at the tail end of the work week instead of at the beginning. So, continue on to another action packed Achievements 101.

Continue reading X3F Achievements 101: Star Power, Summon, Strangle, & Sniping

JoystiqX3F Achievements 101: Star Power, Summon, Strangle, & Sniping originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Aug 2007 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AchievementsAchievements101GHIIGuitarHeroIIShadowrunFri, 24 Aug 2007 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Don't cut yourself just yet, MCR pack on Guitar Hero II]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/14/dont-cut-yourself-just-yet-mcr-pack-on-guitar-hero-ii/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/14/dont-cut-yourself-just-yet-mcr-pack-on-guitar-hero-ii/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/14/dont-cut-yourself-just-yet-mcr-pack-on-guitar-hero-ii/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Major Nelson gives word that Guitar Hero II has another track pack available on Marketplace. This time, though, it's not a rehash of Guitar Hero I songs, but actually a band themed packed full of master tracks. Sounds too good to be true, right? Precisely, as it still costs 500 Microsoft Points, which is not as bad for fresh content, and the band in question is My Chemical Romance. Now, we've had a couple of rants about reader response to anything involving MCR and their 360, and expect to see more of the same here. In any case, the songs in the pack are "Famous Last Words," "This is How I Disappear," and "Teenagers." Now, remember that it's down the road, and not across the street.

JoystiqDon't cut yourself just yet, MCR pack on Guitar Hero II originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Aug 2007 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>GHIIGuitarHeroGuitarHeroIIMCRMyChemicalRomanceXBLMTue, 14 Aug 2007 09:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Guitar Hero II on 360 gets My Chemical Romance pack]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/14/guitar-hero-ii-on-360-gets-my-chemical-romance-pack/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/14/guitar-hero-ii-on-360-gets-my-chemical-romance-pack/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/14/guitar-hero-ii-on-360-gets-my-chemical-romance-pack/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Bust out the eye-liner, paramilitary garb and misplaced anger: A three-pack of My Chemical Romance songs have just hit the Xbox Live Marketplace. If you haven't darkened a Hot Topic door in a few years, the rest of this sentence won't make sense to you, but "Teenagers," "Famous Last Words" and "This is How I Disappear" (all from The Black Parade) are included in the pack.

The price is 500 points ($6.25) for the new songs, which are master tracks from the band. We don't understand why these cost the same as the Guitar Hero I rehashes, but we have to say this is a much better value for some great songs, sure to brighten the day of even the most tortured emo kid.

[Thanks, Dylan]

JoystiqGuitar Hero II on 360 gets My Chemical Romance pack originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Aug 2007 08:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcguitarheroiiXbox-360Tue, 14 Aug 2007 08:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Buy Guitar Hero II, get 1600 MSFT points free]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/16/buy-guitar-hero-ii-get-1600-msft-points-free/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/16/buy-guitar-hero-ii-get-1600-msft-points-free/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/16/buy-guitar-hero-ii-get-1600-msft-points-free/#commentsFiled under: ,

From now through August 18th, when you purchase Guitar Hero II from Circuit City you'll get 1600 Microsoft points for free and free shipping on your online order. This offer is available online and in-store, but you'll have to send in a rebate form to get your money back. Check out the offer here.

True, we have seen a similar free 1600 Microsoft points offer before when GH II released and there was no forms to send in. But if you're willing to send in a rebate and wait for your cash this is definitely a good deal. Or you could just wait for Guitar Hero III or the game X3F is in love with ... Rock Band. Decide and plan your purchase accordingly.

JoystiqBuy Guitar Hero II, get 1600 MSFT points free originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 16 Jul 2007 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dealsgh iiGhIiguitar hero iiGuitarHeroIiharmonixmicrosoft pointsMicrosoftPointsred octaneRedOctaneMon, 16 Jul 2007 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Activision sticking to GH II DLC pricing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/13/activision-sticking-to-gh-ii-dlc-pricing/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/13/activision-sticking-to-gh-ii-dlc-pricing/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/13/activision-sticking-to-gh-ii-dlc-pricing/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The consumer versus Guitar Hero II downloadable content pricing war rages on with Activision taking the defensive on their pricing strategy. According to Dusty Welch, the head of Red Octane publishing, the downloadable track packs have been a "tremendous success" and that "demand seems to be insatiable" as they're reporting that 300,000 song packs have been purchased since April. Mr. Welch goes on to say that they have been listening to Guitar Hero II customers, but will still be "offering even better music at current price points" due to the success of the previous song packs.

So guys, who's to blame? We know we didn't purchase those overpriced track packs, but know there are a bunch who did. This is just another case of the financial bottom line being more important than the vocal majority, so quit buying the songs already! .... now back to the corner to cry myself to sleep again.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqActivision sticking to GH II DLC pricing originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Jul 2007 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisiondlcgh iiGhIiguitar hero iiGuitarHeroIiharmonixred octaneRedOctanexblmxbox live marketplaceXboxLiveMarketplaceFri, 13 Jul 2007 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Guitar Hero II gets new song pack]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/12/guitar-hero-ii-gets-new-song-pack/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/12/guitar-hero-ii-gets-new-song-pack/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/12/guitar-hero-ii-gets-new-song-pack/#commentsFiled under: ,

Boy, that Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock and Rock Band sure look exciting, don't they? The inclusion of Slash, new downloadable content every week? It's a very good time to love pretending to play guitar. But doesn't the axiom go "Make new friends but keep the old, one is silver and the other is gold"? You've got an opportunity to show a little love to an old friend with a new downloadable song pack for Guitar Hero II on Xbox Live.

For 500 points ($6.25) you can pick up "I Wanna Be Sedated," "Smoke on the Water" and "You've Got Another Thing Coming." So, go ahead, spend some time with an old friend. Yes, he's an old friend who charges you six bucks to listen to old songs at his house, but he's a friend just the same.

[Thanks, everyone who sent this in!]

JoystiqGuitar Hero II gets new song pack originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Jul 2007 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcguitarheroiimajornelsonXbox-360xboxliveThu, 12 Jul 2007 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[They didn't listen. New GH II tracks still 500 points]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/11/they-didnt-listen-new-gh-ii-tracks-still-500-points/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/11/they-didnt-listen-new-gh-ii-tracks-still-500-points/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/11/they-didnt-listen-new-gh-ii-tracks-still-500-points/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

In a slap to their fans' faces, Activision released a new Guitar Hero II music pack to the Marketplace and it's still overpriced. Up for download is the Guitar Hero Track Pack 4 featuring three songs including "I Wanna Be Sedated" by The Ramones, "Smoke on the Water" by Deep Purple, and "You've Got Another Thing Coming" by Judas Priest for the ouch that hurts price of 500 Microsoft points.

We really thought Harmonix and Activision were taking a while to release new content, because they were actively negotiated and reworking their pricing strategy seeing that fans have been very vocal about the pricing of the last three DLC offerings. But our extended wait was for no gain, because the pricing hasn't changed. Try and keep your anger civil fanboys ... or at least pointed towards the guilty parties.

JoystiqThey didn't listen. New GH II tracks still 500 points originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Jul 2007 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisione3e307ghiiguitar hero iiGuitarHeroIiharmonixmarketplacexblmxbox live marketplaceXboxLiveMarketplaceWed, 11 Jul 2007 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Pink Spartans know how to rock]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/28/pink-spartans-know-how-to-rock/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/28/pink-spartans-know-how-to-rock/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/28/pink-spartans-know-how-to-rock/#commentsFiled under: ,

What's better than a pink Master Chief, a replica Guitar Hero II X-plorer guitar, and over 70 sparkly jewels? The answer: nothing! Girly Halo fan bs angel created a jewel encrusted X-plorer guitar for her pink Master Chief spartan to rock out with. The project took around two hours to complete with most of that time dedicated to attaching the little jewels. You can check out more pictures of this pink wonder after the break. Now only if bs angel can hook us up with a few tickets to the pink Master Chief rock concert that's going down this Summer ... our fingers are crossed.

[Via HBO]

JoystiqPink Spartans know how to rock originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Jun 2007 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gh iiGhIiguitar hero iiGuitarHeroIihalomaster chiefMasterChiefpinkpink spartanPinkSpartanThu, 28 Jun 2007 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 goes disco at Bonnaroo]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/xbox-360-goes-disco-at-bonnaroo/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/xbox-360-goes-disco-at-bonnaroo/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/xbox-360-goes-disco-at-bonnaroo/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


The Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival can be described in many ways, but gamer's paradise is not the first phrase that comes to mind. Monstrosity of music, perhaps, or neo-hippie nirvana -- these are much more apt descriptions. However, one tiny corner of the farm was in fact an electronic Eden, gamer style, at this year's festival.

We were curious about the console's presence at the festival, and the Microsoft rep on hand wasn't shy about answering questions. "Why not Bonnaroo? There are tons of people, it's good exposure for the system, and it's a great chance to demonstrate the 360." From what we saw of the crowds in the tent, she was right about the exposure. The Arcade was never empty, and several of the consoles had small crowds clustered around the screens.

The Xbox 360 Discothéque Arcade, like so many of the enclosed structures at Bonnaroo, didn't look like much from the outside. Dust-streaked white walls shielded gamers from the boiling Tennessee sun, and the doorway was perfectly positioned to catch the occasional (and very welcome) breeze. Inside, thick shag rugs and battered sofas turned the Arcade into the perfect chill-out area. While the tent wasn't air-conditioned, the simple presence of shade made the Arcade a big draw for gamers and nongamers alike.

Gallery: Xbox 360 Arcade at Bonnaroo 2007

Continue reading Xbox 360 goes disco at Bonnaroo

JoystiqXbox 360 goes disco at Bonnaroo originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Jun 2007 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActionbonnarooCrackdowndiscotheque arcadeDiscothequeArcaforza 2Forza2gears of warGearsOfWarguitar hero iiGuitarHeroIimadden 2007Madden2007Microsoftmlb 2k7Mlb2k7music festivalMusicFestivalRealtime-WorldsRiot-ActSandboxxbox 360Xbox-360Xbox360Tue, 26 Jun 2007 13:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Red Octane: new GHII DLC in July]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/red-octane-new-ghii-dlc-in-july/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/red-octane-new-ghii-dlc-in-july/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/red-octane-new-ghii-dlc-in-july/#commentsFiled under: ,

As the promises of loads of downloadable content echo through the empty halls of memory, Red Octane has let out a squeak, nay, the smallest chirp of information regarding the next batch of downloadable songs for Guitar Hero II. According to a forum post by a Red Octane admin by the name of rodth, new downloadable content for Guitar Hero II should drop sometime in July. Specifically, rodth noted, "While nothing's been formally announced, look for something to come down the pipeline around the July timeframe ...."

If you've been keeping track, this would be the second batch of DLC we've seen since April. We're not experts, but we're not sure that qualifies as the most DLC for any 360 game evar.

[Thanks, Aragorn]

JoystiqRed Octane: new GHII DLC in July originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Jun 2007 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisiongh 2gh iiGh2GhIiguitar heroguitar hero iiGuitarHeroGuitarHeroIiguiter hero 2GuiterHero2harmonixred octaneRedOctaneTue, 19 Jun 2007 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GHII guitar gets peed on, Harmonix to the rescue!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/14/ghii-guitar-gets-peed-on-harmonix-to-the-rescue/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/14/ghii-guitar-gets-peed-on-harmonix-to-the-rescue/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/14/ghii-guitar-gets-peed-on-harmonix-to-the-rescue/#commentsFiled under: ,

Back in May, Rock Band forum member (and obsessed Guitar Hero II fan) Bloodlust told of his tragic GHII experience and asked Harmonix to include one of his favorite songs for all the pain he has gone through. You see, Bloodlust not only ended up with a broken 360, a scratched GHII disc, and heartache, but his X-plorer guitar ended up getting peed on. Yes, you read that correctly, his nephew urinated on his guitar controller. And Harmonix, being the kind developers that they are, kindly disregarded such song suggestion and sent him a brand new X-plorer controller signed by the entire team in urine colored yellow Sharpie. Those Harmonix guys are a funny bunch and are now officially included in our book of kickass developers.

JoystiqGHII guitar gets peed on, Harmonix to the rescue! originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Jun 2007 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gh iiGhIiguitar hero iiGuitarHeroIiharmonixpeeThu, 14 Jun 2007 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GHII tourney at the Mall of America]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/05/ghii-tourney-at-the-mall-of-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/05/ghii-tourney-at-the-mall-of-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/05/ghii-tourney-at-the-mall-of-america/#commentsFiled under: ,

You're a Guitar Hero II rockstar god, aren't you? Well, if you think you're good enough and are willing to travel, the Mall of America in the lovely state of Minnesota is holding a Guitar Hero II tournament this Saturday, June 9th. The guitar gaming fun will take place in the mall's rotunda from 10:00AM-4:00PM with prizes including a Guitar Hero II game pack, Fender Squier Strat Pack, and a pair of airline tickets. And if your dress up skills are better then your guitar playing, dress up like your favorite rocker and win prizes for your creativity. Practice a few expert songs, make a trip to the MOA and win a few prizes. Living the life of a rockstar is good.

JoystiqGHII tourney at the Mall of America originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Jun 2007 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisiongh iiGhIiguitar hero iiGuitarHeroIimall of americaMallOfAmericamoared octaneRedOctanetournamentTue, 05 Jun 2007 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[For fanatics: custom GHII guitar on eBay]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/01/for-fanatics-custom-ghii-guitar-on-ebay/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/01/for-fanatics-custom-ghii-guitar-on-ebay/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/01/for-fanatics-custom-ghii-guitar-on-ebay/#commentsFiled under: ,

Thanks to seemingly never ending supply issues, finding a second guitar for Guitar Hero II can be quite a challenge. Now, if you want to spend a little extra scratch, you can find custom guitars on eBay. Put up for auction by sheppyboy2000, the guitar features an original black-on-red paint job. This is actually his second guitar (you can see the first one here). Apparently stickers weren't enough for sheppyboy2000. You'd better really want this puppy, though: the current high bid is $85 with $11 more for shipping. For that price, you could buy a brand new copy of Guitar Hero II and give it to a friend. Still, if you like custom gaming accessories, this one seems pretty nice. Oh, and sheppyboy2000 plans to make more, so keep your eyes peeled if you like what you see.

[Thanks, Adam Wessel]

JoystiqFor fanatics: custom GHII guitar on eBay originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Jun 2007 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionghghiiguitar heroguitar hero iiGuitarHeroGuitarHeroIiharmonixred octainRedOctainFri, 01 Jun 2007 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[New Guitar Hero III tracks revealed, Les Paul guitar coming]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/23/new-guitar-hero-iii-tracks-revealed-les-paul-guitar-coming/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/23/new-guitar-hero-iii-tracks-revealed-les-paul-guitar-coming/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/23/new-guitar-hero-iii-tracks-revealed-les-paul-guitar-coming/#commentsFiled under:


As we're still struggling to crank out perfect scores on Hard difficulty in Guitar Hero II, Activision goes and announces a whole slew of new tracks coming to Guitar Hero III. Seriously, just look at all these damned tracks (which we have politely lifted from Joystiq)!
First thing's first, please recognize the distinction between "by" and "as made famous by" in that list. You'll notice that a full 7 of those tracks appear to be recorded by the artist themselves. That's worth throwing up the horns right there. In some more exciting news, Activision has announced that Guitar Hero III's guitar controller will be modeled after the Gibson Les Paul, and will feature customizable faceplates. Furthermore, there will be wireless controllers available for the game, though it is unclear if said guitars will be included with the game or if they will be separate purchases. There is one troubling note in the press release, though: the new guitars will feature a new "button color design" in order to create a more authentic experience. Hopefully, this doesn't hinder the performance of the (very expensive) guitars we've all purchased for Guitar Hero II.

So, what's your favorite song on the list?

JoystiqNew Guitar Hero III tracks revealed, Les Paul guitar coming originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 May 2007 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisiong h iiigh iiGhIiGHIiiguitar heroguitar hero iiguitar hero iiiGuitarHeroGuitarHeroIiGuitarHeroIiiguiter hero 3GuiterHero3neversoftWed, 23 May 2007 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Power made easy: an X-plorer mod]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/21/star-power-made-easy-an-x-plorer-mod/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/21/star-power-made-easy-an-x-plorer-mod/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/21/star-power-made-easy-an-x-plorer-mod/#commentsFiled under: , ,


You know the feeling. You're playing Guitar Hero II, you've got full Star Power and here comes that sweet string of notes that will send your score into the stratosphere. Only one thing to do: tilt that controller and rock like you mean it. But what's this? You tilt the control and nothing happens, or maybe it's a little delayed, or maybe the act of tilting screws up your fingering. Whatever happened, you're stuck with a piddly x2 multiplier and a lot of wasted Star Power. If this sounds familiar to you, you may want to check out the fancy Star Power button mod at GrownUpGamers. As is the case with most mods, this will require you to crack open your X-plorer and do some soldering, so it's not for the timid. The mod also instructs users how to install a "kill switch" which essentially gives you a second strum button, helping you land those wicked solos.

If you're chops are righteous enough for this mod, click the "read" link and check it out.

See Also:
Guitar Hero II cardboard fret mod

JoystiqStar Power made easy: an X-plorer mod originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 May 2007 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acclaimgh iighiiguitar hero iiGuitarHeroIihacksharmonixmodsred octaneRedOctaneMon, 21 May 2007 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[First tracks from Guitar Hero: Rocks the 80's revealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/10/first-tracks-from-guitar-hero-rocks-the-80s-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/10/first-tracks-from-guitar-hero-rocks-the-80s-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/10/first-tracks-from-guitar-hero-rocks-the-80s-revealed/#commentsFiled under: , ,

An alarming abundance of outrageous attitudes? Check. Enormous shoulder pads and poor color coordination? Check. Extravagantly large hair and excessively shiny accessories? Check. With this Summer's upcoming Guitar Hero expansion, Rocks the 80's, publisher Activision is dangerously close to delivering their first Japanese RPG. Thankfully, Opposable Thumbs reminds us that it's all about the music and lists the first seven tracks from the game's 30-strong list.
  • I Wanna Rock (by Twisted Sister)
  • I Ran (by Flock of Seagulls)
  • Round and Round (as made famous by Ratt)
  • I Want Candy (as made famous by Bow Wow Wow)
  • Metal Health (as made famous by Quiet Riot)
  • Holy Diver (as made famous by Dio)
  • Heat Of The Moment (as made famous by Asia)
Given the lack of the "as made famous" bit, it seems original recordings are provided by everybody's favorite contorted siblings and maritime birds. Curiously, Opposable Thumbs notes that Guitar Hero: Rocks the 80's will be "exclusive" to the PlayStation 2. Does that imply exclusivity for the in-store version, with the Xbox 360 receiving the expansion in downloadable form? Why would Activision limit the game's reach? After all, the pricing of Guitar Hero's online tracks makes it pretty clear that the publisher enjoys making money.

[Thanks, Jess]

JoystiqFirst tracks from Guitar Hero: Rocks the 80's revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 May 2007 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActivisionGuitar HeroGuitar Hero 2Guitar Hero IIGuitarHeroGuitarHero2GuitarHeroIiNeversoftPS2Red OctaneRedOctaneThu, 10 May 2007 11:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Rock Band to feature Fender guitars and equipment]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/08/rock-band-to-feature-fender-guitars-and-equipment/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/08/rock-band-to-feature-fender-guitars-and-equipment/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/08/rock-band-to-feature-fender-guitars-and-equipment/#commentsFiled under:

Harmonix and EA announced that their upcoming rhythm game, Rock Band, will feature a Fender Stratocaster guitar peripheral, and Fender guitars, basses, amps, and other equipment in game. Rock Band will also feature BOSS and Roland in game. CEO of Fender Musical Instruments Corporation Bill Mendello showed great interest and enthusiasm in Harmonix using Fender equipment in the game, commending the developer's ability to capture the essence of rock 'n' roll in digital entertainement. So, since the GH II Gibson X-plorer will play nice with Rock Band, which one are you going to side with? Fender or Gibson?

JoystiqRock Band to feature Fender guitars and equipment originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 May 2007 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>E AEAElectronic artsElectronicArtsFenderFender StratocasterFenderStratocasterG H IIGHIiGuitar Hero IIGuitarHeroIiHarmonixRock BandRockBandStrato casterStratoCasterTue, 08 May 2007 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Guitar Hero II ad by Gorillaz animation director]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/08/guitar-hero-ii-ad-by-gorillaz-animation-director/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/08/guitar-hero-ii-ad-by-gorillaz-animation-director/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/08/guitar-hero-ii-ad-by-gorillaz-animation-director/#commentsFiled under: ,

You know that badass commercial for Guitar Hero II that we first showed you that later came to Marketplace? Yeah, the one that looks strikingly similar to Gorillaz music videos' artistic style? Well, evidently that comparison is with good reason, at it turns out that the credits to the animation go to Peter Candleland, the Gorillaz animation director from Passion Pictures had a hand in the style of the 360 rock title's TV spot, so the similarities are justified. We also hunted down the animator for the piece, Robert Valley, and a lot of his other work is consistent with the feel throughout. Still, the "Woman vs. Meteor" ad is right up there with Mad World in our books, what about you?

JoystiqGuitar Hero II ad by Gorillaz animation director originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 May 2007 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>G H IIGHIiGorillazGuitar Hero IIGuitarHeroIiPassion PicturesPassionPicturesWomanTue, 08 May 2007 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Guitar Hero II cardboard fret mod]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/05/guitar-hero-ii-cardboard-fret-mod/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/05/guitar-hero-ii-cardboard-fret-mod/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/05/guitar-hero-ii-cardboard-fret-mod/#commentsFiled under: ,


Over at GrownUpGamers.com they've posted a helpful tutorial to fix those unreliable Guitar Hero II fret buttons on your X-plorer guitar. Their tutorial is for those of you who experience not so responsive fret buttons when rocking out to your favorite jam. This unresponsive fret button problem occurs when the fret buttons don't fully press down on the contact due to some shifting action. And all you need to fix those buttons is some confidence to open up your guitar, some cardboard, scissors, and tape. And voila! Fret buttons fixed. We're just wondering what type of cardboard would work best. Gushers, Pop-Tarts, Fruit By the Foot, or Cheerios ... oh the choices.

[Via Digg]

JoystiqGuitar Hero II cardboard fret mod originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 05 May 2007 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gh iiGhIiguitar hero iiGuitarHeroIimodred octaneRedOctaneSat, 05 May 2007 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Canadian and UK Guitar Hero II supply woes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/04/canadian-and-uk-guitar-hero-ii-supply-woes/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/04/canadian-and-uk-guitar-hero-ii-supply-woes/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/04/canadian-and-uk-guitar-hero-ii-supply-woes/#commentsFiled under: ,

Joystiq reports that Guitar Hero II supply problems are becoming prevalent to gamers in Canada and the UK. This has been confirmed by one of Joystiq's UK bloggers, who states, "I've tried about a dozen retail stores, [it's] harder to find than a Wii." Wow, that is hard to find. When reached for comment, Red Octane told Joystiq that the supply issues were purely a result of an "insane amount of demand" for the title. Furthermore, they note that there are still many retailers in the United States experiencing supply troubles as well.

Red Octane's advice? Buy directly from the Red Octane store. If you just have to have Guitar Hero II (and honestly, you do), ordering from Red Octane may be your only hope. Be warned though, shipping costs are not cheap.

JoystiqCanadian and UK Guitar Hero II supply woes originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 May 2007 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gh iiGhIiguitar heroguitar hero iiGuitarHeroGuitarHeroIiharmonixred octaneRedOctaneFri, 04 May 2007 17:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 Guitar Hero II supply issues in Canada and UK]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/04/xbox-360-guitar-hero-ii-supply-issues-in-canada-and-england/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/04/xbox-360-guitar-hero-ii-supply-issues-in-canada-and-england/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/04/xbox-360-guitar-hero-ii-supply-issues-in-canada-and-england/#commentsFiled under: , ,

RedOctane's Guitar Hero II has been such a success on the Xbox 360 there seems to be a little supply issue. Not so much in the US -- although it is tough to get in some cases -- but we know of supply issues in Canada and the UK. One of our own writers living in jolly ol' England told us, "I've tried about a dozen retail stores, [it's] harder to find than a Wii." Yeah, supply is that bad.

Joystiq received comment about the supply issues form Red Octane, telling us, "We can confirm we definitely are selling Guitar Hero II for the Xbox 360 in Canada. The issue of being sold out isn't just in Canada, as many other retailers in the US are experiencing the same situation as well, as there's just been an insane amount of demand for the game and can't stay on the shelves. The best tip we can provide is to either stay patient as more supply will be available to everyone shortly, or purchase from the RedOctane online store since it is still available there."

We've been told that conspiracy theories in Canada about the supply issues revolve around a recall due to broken whammy bars and that RedOctane is trying to control Canadian supplies by milking them quietly by doubling shipping costs from $17 to $35 (we're guessing that's in Canadian dollars). Anyway, for those looking to rock out in the Great White North or Europe it may be time to bite the bullet and pony up the cash for shipping from RedOctane's store. Although supplies are tight at retail, their store seems capable of supplying the guitar faithful.

[Thanks, Chris N.]

JoystiqXbox 360 Guitar Hero II supply issues in Canada and UK originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 May 2007 14:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>guitarheroguitarheroIIRedOctanesupplyXbox-360Fri, 04 May 2007 14:55:00 EST<![CDATA[WRUP: beta late than neva edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/27/wrup-beta-late-than-neva-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/27/wrup-beta-late-than-neva-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/27/wrup-beta-late-than-neva-edition/#commentsFiled under:


So, the weekend is officially upon us, and at least in the Great White North, the forecast is wet and gloomy, which pretty much means sitting back in a Sumo lounge chair and gaming away. We'll probably try to get some final matches of Shadowrun in before the beta ends Monday night, rock out to Guitar Hero II, or go back to old favorites like Oblivion and Gears of War. But that's us. What of you, fellow fanboy, what are you going to be playing?


Leaderboards:
Xbox 360 Fanboy Leaderboard
Xbox 360 Fanboy Leaderboard Mk. II

X360F Gamertags:
Richard Mitchell -- SenseiRAM
Dustin Burg -- SuperDunners
David Dreger -- Knuckles Dawson

JoystiqWRUP: beta late than neva edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Apr 2007 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>G H IIG o WGearsGears of WarGearsOfWarGHIiGOWGuitar Hero IIGuitarHeroIiOblivionShadow RunShadowRunw r u pwhat are you playingWhatAreYouPlayingWRUPFri, 27 Apr 2007 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Are these the next Guitar Hero DLC packs?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/23/rumor-are-these-the-next-guitar-hero-dlc-packs/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/23/rumor-are-these-the-next-guitar-hero-dlc-packs/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/23/rumor-are-these-the-next-guitar-hero-dlc-packs/#commentsFiled under: , ,


We don't really know if the list of three new song packs for Guitar Hero II reported by HarmonixFans.com is on the level. They look logical enough to us, but we also don't have access to the mysterious "Microsoft certification documents" from which the information was reportedly taken. So, take it with a grain of cliché, but here's the list:

Pack 1: "Cowboys From Hell," "I Love Rock & Roll," "Cochise"
Pack 2: "Godzilla," "I Wanna Be Sedated," "Sharp Dressed Man"
Pack 3: "Iron Man," "Take Me Out," "Smoke on the Water"

The thing that makes this list harder to dismiss is that this same site had a list of the first packs of GH songs before they were released to the public, and HarmonixFans says this latest tidbit is from the same source. Of course, they also qualify that the last batch of songs was on PartnerNet when they reported it and this one isn't. So, feel free to discuss the relative merits of the songs, just don't go buy $24,000 of MS points (or whatever they cost) in anticipation.

[via Xbox 360 Fanboy]

JoystiqRumor: Are these the next Guitar Hero DLC packs? originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Apr 2007 21:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcguitarheroiiharmonixharmonixfanspartnernetXbox-360Mon, 23 Apr 2007 21:28:00 EST<![CDATA[360's Guitar Hero II axe working in OS X, Frets on Fire]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/23/360s-guitar-hero-ii-axe-working-in-os-x-frets-on-fire/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/23/360s-guitar-hero-ii-axe-working-in-os-x-frets-on-fire/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/23/360s-guitar-hero-ii-axe-working-in-os-x-frets-on-fire/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Though we managed to get Guitar Hero II's USB-enabled X-plorer controller working with Windows XP, we couldn't manage to get it rocking with Mac OS X. Lucky for us, our friends at TUAW wouldn't take no for an answer. They emailed the developer of the open source Xbox 360 controller driver for Mac OS X who was able to implement support for the X-plorer controller in the latest revision, version 0.05 released over the weekend. Of course, the first thing to test out? Frets on Fire which, they happily report, works great with the X-plorer. The best part: the white guitar no doubt matches your shiny white Mac. Now get some white leather pants, and you're in business.

[Via TUAW]

Joystiq360's Guitar Hero II axe working in OS X, Frets on Fire originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>FretsonFireGuitarHeroIIMacMacOSXXbox-360Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Possible leak: New GH II downloadable tracks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/23/possible-leak-new-gh-ii-downloadable-tracks/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/23/possible-leak-new-gh-ii-downloadable-tracks/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/23/possible-leak-new-gh-ii-downloadable-tracks/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The guys over at HarmonixFans received some special insider's information on the new Guitar Hero II downloadable content that will be coming to the XBLM. The information supposedly came from Microsoft certification documents that were obtained and detail three new track packs including songs from Pantera, The Ramones and ZZ Top. Complete listings of the rumored songs are posted after the break.

And even if this information turns out to be false, we know more DLC is coming and pray to the gaming gods and executives at Red Octane that they listened to their fans and adjusted their prices. How can they deny our loud and abrasive fanboy whining?

[Via Arrogantics]

Continue reading Possible leak: New GH II downloadable tracks

JoystiqPossible leak: New GH II downloadable tracks originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Apr 2007 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gh iiGhIiguitar hero iiGuitarHeroIimarketplacered octaneRedOctanerumorsxblmxbox live marketplaceXboxLiveMarketplaceMon, 23 Apr 2007 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[RedOctane promises new Guitar Hero every year]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/17/redoctane-promises-new-guitar-hero-every-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/17/redoctane-promises-new-guitar-hero-every-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/17/redoctane-promises-new-guitar-hero-every-year/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Tina Turner be damned, you're getting a new Guitar Hero game every year. In a Eurogamer interview, RedOctane co-founder and president, Kai Huang, reveals that every guitar freak's favorite franchise will soon have something in common with large men tossing balls and slamming into each other. "I think that fans can definitely expect that we're going to have one major release a year," says Kai. Following that, the peripheral manufacturer plans to "release update packs and content packs so there's more songs."

And what about the controversial pricing of already released song packs? The pricing's "competitive," says Huang, though his comment may have been slightly garbled due to the degradation of interplanetary transmissions. "We've done a lot of evaluation on the pricing and the costs for each of the songs and how they work for each of the packs, and we think that they're priced competitively, but certainly we listen to the fans and we take that feedback, and if that's something we'll need to evaluate we'll do that."

An annual release of Guitar Hero is hardly something we'd consider to be terrible news, but one caveat certainly needs to be heard -- not many franchises keep their sparkle on a yearly release schedule. Even fellow music maniac, Dance Dance Revolution, has taken a few bad steps in its rapid-fire career. We cringe at the thought of seeing a great franchise doing a power slide... down a set of stairs.

JoystiqRedOctane promises new Guitar Hero every year originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Apr 2007 20:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActivisionDSGuitar HeroGuitar Hero 2Guitar Hero 3Guitar Hero IIGuitar Hero IIIGuitarHeroGuitarHero2GuitarHero3GuitarHeroIiGuitarHeroIiiMusicPS2PS3RedOctaneWiiXbox-360Tue, 17 Apr 2007 20:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Red Octane 'looking into' Guitar Hero II patch problems]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/16/red-octane-looking-into-guitar-hero-ii-patch-problems/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/16/red-octane-looking-into-guitar-hero-ii-patch-problems/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/16/red-octane-looking-into-guitar-hero-ii-patch-problems/#commentsFiled under: ,


"We're aware of the problem and we're looking into it." So says RedOctane in response to complaints of a Guitar Hero II patch leaving Xbox 360s paralyzed by the dreaded red ring of death. A string of users have posted their tales of woe on the official Xbox forums, noting post-patch game freezes, startup glitches and eventual system lockups. The patch was initially issued to correct unresponsive whammy bars in some guitar controllers.

Though Red Octane doesn't divulge to Eurogamer just exactly what "we're looking into it" entails, there's little hope that a further software patch could repair completely inoperative consoles. There's also no direct evidence to suggest that the patch itself is causing the Xbox 360 hardware to malfunction. The operating system might be fooled into thinking there is, however, which isn't much better than a physical malfunction. This occurrence is awfully similar to what transpires whenever a new Xbox 360 game is released -- is software causing a new problem, or is it letting you know that you had a rotten system to begin with?

We'll let you know as soon as RedOctane or Microsoft comment further.

JoystiqRed Octane 'looking into' Guitar Hero II patch problems originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 16 Apr 2007 21:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Guitar HeroGuitar Hero 2Guitar Hero IIGuitarHeroGuitarHero2GuitarHeroIiHarmonixMicrosoftMusicPatchRedOctaneRockXbox-360Mon, 16 Apr 2007 21:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Online multiplayer coming to Guitar Hero III]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/16/online-multiplayer-coming-to-guitar-hero-iii/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/16/online-multiplayer-coming-to-guitar-hero-iii/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/16/online-multiplayer-coming-to-guitar-hero-iii/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Recently announced Guitar Hero III will be sporting something we wish Guitar Hero II would have included ... online multiplayer. In an interview with Red Octane president Kai Huang, Pro-G confirmed that GH III would indeed include an online component. So fanboys, does this mean that a rumored future GH II update to include online multiplayer will never see the light of day? Well, it doesn't sound overly promising seeing that they'll probably use "Super Duper Online Multiplayer" as a new feature and bullet point for their third installment. Oh well, we still love you GH II and will wait to see if you'll grace us with online play later this year.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqOnline multiplayer coming to Guitar Hero III originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 16 Apr 2007 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisiongh iigh iiiGhIiGhIiiguitar hero iiguitar hero iiiGuitarHeroIiGuitarHeroIiired octaneRedOctaneMon, 16 Apr 2007 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GH II updated, no more whammy problems]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/14/gh-ii-updated-no-more-whammy-problems/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/14/gh-ii-updated-no-more-whammy-problems/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/14/gh-ii-updated-no-more-whammy-problems/#commentsFiled under: ,


Red Octane, being very stealth like, released an auto update for Guitar Hero II early this morning fixing everyone's whammy bar woes. The other day, we learned that people's broken whammy bars weren't a result of malfunctioning hardware, but were software based. Red Octane said that whammy bar problems were being caused by a chunk of anti-cheating dev code that they added late in the development cycle. So, the newly released auto update fixes this code problem and whammy bars the world over can go back to whammying. Fire up your copy of Guitar Hero II, download the update, and whammy until your heart is content.

Now, we just have to get Red Octane to acknowledge that they over priced GH II's DLC and fix that whole mess. But we'll deal with that next week.

[Thanks, DeadPlasmaCell]

JoystiqGH II updated, no more whammy problems originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 14 Apr 2007 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gh iiGhIiguitar heroguitar hero iiGuitarHeroGuitarHeroIired octaneRedOctaneupdatewhammySat, 14 Apr 2007 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSP Fanboy Theatre: Volume 15]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/14/psp-fanboy-theatre-volume-15/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/14/psp-fanboy-theatre-volume-15/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/14/psp-fanboy-theatre-volume-15/#commentsFiled under:

PSP Fanboy offers the latest and greatest movie and game trailers, formatted for the PSP in this new weekly feature. Check it out every Saturday. PSP owners can download files wirelessly via m.pspfanboy.com.

Instructions: Save all movie and thumbnail files to the VIDEO folder. These high resolution 480x272 videos require firmware 3.30 or above. (Note: OE custom firmware will also play these videos.)


Manhunt 2
Download MP4 (6.8MB) | Download JPG

The following videos are featured after the break: Blue Dragon, Gene Simmons - Guitar Hero II Tournament, God of War II: Mythology, Guitar Hero II [360]

Continue reading PSP Fanboy Theatre: Volume 15

JoystiqPSP Fanboy Theatre: Volume 15 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 14 Apr 2007 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blue dragonBlueDragongene simmonsGeneSimmonsgod of wargod of war iiGodOfWarGodOfWarIiguitar hero iiGuitarHeroIimanhuntmanhunt 2Manhunt2theatreSat, 14 Apr 2007 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Red Octane says Xbox 360 guitars patched via Xbox Live]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/14/red-octane-says-xbox-360-guitars-patched-via-xbox-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/14/red-octane-says-xbox-360-guitars-patched-via-xbox-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/14/red-octane-says-xbox-360-guitars-patched-via-xbox-live/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Apparently Red Octane discovered the problem in their guitars and fixed it with a software patch this morning. On Red Octane's website they're saying that as of 4 AM pacific today a patch is available via Xbox Live that "should resolve the situation where input from the whammy bar was not always recognized."

Red Octane admitted a week ago that two models of their Xbox 360 guitars were "defective." This followed a week of wannabe guitar heroes discovering that their axes were having problems with their whammy bar, strangely the whammy defect seemed to have a higher prevalence in the first batch of guitars with a 95055 on the box. Red Octane says the situation is fixed now. This doesn't explain the sticky yellow fret button or the complaints of "shocks" by some people, but the original whammy bar issue seems resolved. People with "defective" guitars, after downloading the patch, is it fixed?

[Thank you James]

JoystiqRed Octane says Xbox 360 guitars patched via Xbox Live originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 14 Apr 2007 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>busted guitarsdefective whammy barsguitar hero IIGuitarHeroIixbox 360Xbox-360Sat, 14 Apr 2007 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Killer Queen on GHII, worth $6?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/13/video-killer-queen-on-ghii-worth-6/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/13/video-killer-queen-on-ghii-worth-6/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/13/video-killer-queen-on-ghii-worth-6/#commentsFiled under:


So, Red Octane and Activision have taken some flack for the pricing of of the Guitar Hero II downloadable content. As a quick reminder, the song packs costs $6.25. With three songs to a pack, that's a little more than 2 bucks a song. Regardless of whether or not the pricing is truly reflective of the licensing costs and other related costs, many folks out there think the price is too high. So, we found this video on GameTrailers showcasing one of the new tracks, Queen's "Killer Queen." The pack also includes "Frankenstein" by the Edgar Winter Group and "Take It Off" by The Donnas, which are both decent songs in their own way. The question is then, now that you've seen "Killer Queen" as it plays in Guitar Hero II, is the $2/song price any more palatable? Would any of you be more amenable to paying 160 points for individual songs?

JoystiqVideo: Killer Queen on GHII, worth $6? originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Apr 2007 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisiongh iighiiguitar heroguitar hero iiGuitarHeroGuitarHeroIiharmonixred octaneRedOctaneFri, 13 Apr 2007 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[GHII problems software based, patch inbound]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/13/ghii-problems-software-based-patch-inbound/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/13/ghii-problems-software-based-patch-inbound/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/13/ghii-problems-software-based-patch-inbound/#commentsFiled under: ,


Guitar Hero II, we've been writing about it nonstop since it was released. It was the major topic of our most recent Fancast. The song packs have outraged us. The game itself, however, is basically pure gaming gold. At least, it's gold so long as you have a functional guitar. Our own David Dreger, for example, has a broken whammy bar. Or does he? According to a recent statement from Activision, it looks like the whammy bar issue may actually stem from software, not hardware. Activision and Red Octane's support pages note that the issue is caused by an element of Guitar Hero II that was added to "ensure accurate scoring". In other words, it was placed there to prevent cheating. Activision plans to release a patch that should rectify the issue within the coming weeks. So, if you were planning on fixing that guitar yourself, you may want to wait for the patch. After all, if you fix your guitar, and then Activision patches the game, you may wind up with the same problem all over again.

JoystiqGHII problems software based, patch inbound originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Apr 2007 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisiongh 2Gh2ghiiguitar heroguitar hero 2guitar hero iiGuitarHeroGuitarHero2GuitarHeroIiharmonixred octaneRedOctaneFri, 13 Apr 2007 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Major Nelson on GHII DLC, Halo 3, Sony]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/12/major-nelson-on-ghii-dlc-halo-3-sony/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/12/major-nelson-on-ghii-dlc-halo-3-sony/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/12/major-nelson-on-ghii-dlc-halo-3-sony/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Before the NYC Guitar Hero II event with Gene Simmons got into full swing, Joystiq got the chance to sit down with Larry Hryb (AKA Major Nelson) and talk about all things Xbox. Speaking about the highly priced Guitar Hero II downloadable songs, Major Nelson states that it's not analogous to iTunes. In other words, the interactivity, the licensing, and the testing all go into creating a price for the new tracks. Furthermore, since the tracks are on a new platform, all the contracts have to be renegotiated. Of course, Red Octane wants to make some money as well. When asked about the bundling issue -- i.e. "I have to buy two crappy songs to get the one I like" -- Major Nelson says that bundling was probably done to bring the cost down. By working on three songs at once, rather than individual songs, Red Octane could conceivably cut down on development costs, thus reducing the price to consumers. In other words, individual songs would likely be even more expensive.

Major Nelson also discusses the upcoming Halo 3 beta, the competition from Sony, the Spring Update, and the Wii. Hit the "read" link for the full interview.

See Also:
Xbox 360 Fancast 010 (featuring Major Nelson)

JoystiqMajor Nelson on GHII DLC, Halo 3, Sony originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Apr 2007 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ghiiguitar hero iiGuitarHeroIilarry hrybLarryHrybmajor nelsonMajorNelsonThu, 12 Apr 2007 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[GH II and Gene Simmons rock NYC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/12/gh-ii-and-gene-simmons-rock-nyc/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/12/gh-ii-and-gene-simmons-rock-nyc/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/12/gh-ii-and-gene-simmons-rock-nyc/#commentsFiled under: ,


Joystiq was in NYC to capture all the Guitar Hero II festivities at the Virgin Megastore and almost got to touch KISS rocker Gene Simmons. The event featured a few of the best Guitar Hero II players this side of Texas who battled it out for a chance to rock with Mr. Simmons. Think of it as a one big marketing event where you mix one part old rockstar with three parts video games and watch the magic happen. The video above features the GH II winner rocking it out withe Gene and also a few awkward moments, but overall it was a pretty entertaining show. Also, be sure to check out both Joystiq and Major Nelson's photo galleries from the event to get a real sense of what it's like to be in the presence of a "rock god". The event looked fun, but now it's time to watch our favorite TV show, Family Jewels ... that Gene Simmons is such a character.

JoystiqGH II and Gene Simmons rock NYC originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Apr 2007 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eventgene simmonsGeneSimmonsgh iiGhIiguitar heroguitar hero iiGuitarHeroGuitarHeroIimicrosoftred octaneRedOctanexbox 360Xbox360Thu, 12 Apr 2007 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fans revolt! GH II DLC is just too spendy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/12/fans-revolt-gh-ii-dlc-is-just-too-spendy/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/12/fans-revolt-gh-ii-dlc-is-just-too-spendy/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/12/fans-revolt-gh-ii-dlc-is-just-too-spendy/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Yesterday, the first batch of downloadable content for Guitar Hero II released onto the XBLM with a very negative reception from fans. Red Octane released three packs to the Marketplace each containing three songs from Guitar Hero and costing 500 Microsoft points ($6.25 US) each. And there in lies the problem ... this content is expensive! The negative buzz surrounding the new tracks has not only spilled onto Major Nelson's website sparking a 560+ comment debate, but inspired angry fans to take action.

Enter an online petition aimed at getting Red Octane and Microsoft's attention to do something about the over priced DLC. The online petition has gained a bunch of steam racking up over 3,600 signatures and is sure to gain more throughout the next few days. Will Red Octane respond to fan's anger towards the DLC's pricing scheme, or will they simply turn a blind eye? Well, there's only one way to find out. If you don't agree with the pricing for Guitar Hero II's new DLC and are willing to boycott any such purchase until the price comes down, then sign the online petition. If it's one thing we've learned in the past few weeks it's that sometimes those online petitions actually do work.

[Thanks, MightyHealthy]

JoystiqFans revolt! GH II DLC is just too spendy originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Apr 2007 01:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcgh iiGhIiguitar heroguitar hero iiGuitarHeroGuitarHeroIimicrosoftred octaneRedOctanexblmxbox live marketplaceXboxLiveMarketplaceThu, 12 Apr 2007 01:45:00 EST