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[Xbox 360 gets backwards compatibility update]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/12/xbox-360-gets-backwards-compatibility-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/12/xbox-360-gets-backwards-compatibility-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/12/xbox-360-gets-backwards-compatibility-update/#commentsFiled under:

Taking a moment away from E3, Major Nelson updated his blog to give the latest information on Xbox 360 backwards compatibility. The whole list of new titles can be found after the break, and you can always go to Xbox's site to get the full list.

This would typically be the part where we'd say something about how silly it is that the Xbox 360 has backwards compatibility issues in the first place, but now he's not the only guy in town with a problem. There aren't that many original Xbox games that are still worth worrying about. Our concern is more with the new version of the PS3 which will have "limited backwards compatibility," especially when there was nothing limited about its compatibility before. Oh well, if you're planning on getting the PS3 and you have a favorite old game on the system, make sure to check it will still work -- or got get yourself a current PS3 model while you still can.

Continue reading Xbox 360 gets backwards compatibility update

JoystiqXbox 360 gets backwards compatibility update originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Jul 2007 23:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backwards compatibilityEAElectronic-Artsmajor nelsonMajorNelsonMicrosoftThe-Urbz-Sims-in-the-CityxboxXbox-360Thu, 12 Jul 2007 23:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft 'Bringing it Home' again for Min-E3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/02/microsoft-bringing-it-home-again-for-min-e3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/02/microsoft-bringing-it-home-again-for-min-e3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/02/microsoft-bringing-it-home-again-for-min-e3/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Microsoft is reemploying their Bringing it Home campaign for this year's Min-E3. The campaign has previously been seen during last year's E3 and their X06 event in Barcelona, Spain.

As part of Bringing it Home, a barrage of content will be made available via Xbox Live, including their July 10 press conference, game trailers, themes, gamer pictures, demos and other video updates. Some of the games mentioned include Assassin's Creed, Bioshock, Blue Dragon and Project Gotham Racing 4. A partial list (expect surprises from the show) is available after the break.

[Via X3F]

Continue reading Microsoft 'Bringing it Home' again for Min-E3

JoystiqMicrosoft 'Bringing it Home' again for Min-E3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Jul 2007 15:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bringing it homeBringingItHomee3e3 2007E32007major nelsonMajorNelsonmarketplacexblmxbox livexbox live marketplaceXbox-360XboxLiveXboxLiveMarketplaceMon, 02 Jul 2007 15:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft booting modders off Xbox Live]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/17/microsoft-booting-modders-off-xbox-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/17/microsoft-booting-modders-off-xbox-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/17/microsoft-booting-modders-off-xbox-live/#commentsFiled under: , ,


If you've been using a modified Xbox 360 to beta test first-person shooters on Xbox Live, you're about to be shunned by the online world like a leper operating a Simple Plan Myspace page. "How could this happen to me?" you ask. Well, Major Nelson bluntly blurts it out on his temporary post-meltdown page: "As you can imagine, we have a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to modded consoles connecting to LIVE. We're very serious about this, and if we detect you have a modded Xbox then you will not be able to connect to Xbox Live."

Aside from the sudden disconnection, modders will be informed of their newly-banished status by the above screen and the status code, "Z: 8015 - 190D." Those recipients without eye patches will no doubt be livid and ready to assault message boards with all manner of exclamations and emoticons, but when used for evil, the power of Mod can open the door to online cheating and other unfair unpleasantness. Sometimes innocent bystanders have to pay the price in Microsoft's war on enemy solders.

[Thanks, keeel]

JoystiqMicrosoft booting modders off Xbox Live originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 May 2007 19:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Halo 3Halo3Major NelsonMajorNelsonMicrosoftmodsXBLAXbox LiveXbox Live ArcadeXbox-360XboxLiveXboxLiveArcadeThu, 17 May 2007 19:36:00 EST<![CDATA[How to make a million ... in Pac-Man]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/07/how-to-make-a-million-in-pac-man/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/07/how-to-make-a-million-in-pac-man/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/07/how-to-make-a-million-in-pac-man/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Tie that scarf around your head, put on your sweatbands, stock up on energy drinks. Major Nelson wants to help your Pac-Man game for the Xbox Live World Championship, and he's offering a downloadable PDF guide.

Most of it involves memorizing patterns -- lots of patterns -- but if you're into a challenge, this 33-page book from 1982 may be up your alley. And before you laugh at someone making a book that long on Pac-Man, just take a gander at the sizes of some of the obscure guides on GameFAQs.

[Via Xbox 360 Fanboy]

JoystiqHow to make a million ... in Pac-Man originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 07 May 2007 23:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>major nelsonMajorNelsonpac manPacManXbox-360Mon, 07 May 2007 23:20:00 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[Fancast: Got a question for Major Nelson?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/28/fancast-got-a-question-for-major-nelson/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/28/fancast-got-a-question-for-major-nelson/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/28/fancast-got-a-question-for-major-nelson/#commentsFiled under:


We hinted at having a special guest on this upcoming Xbox 360 Fancast, and as it turns out, it will be Larry Hryb a.k.a. Major Nelson. We're thrilled at the chance to have him on our show, especially considering some of the current events this week. So, since we're going to be there, he's going to be there, and you're going to be listening, we figured you should be involved. So, do you have any questions for the Xbox Live Director of Programming? Obviously, inquiries about upcoming demos or patches may be a little tedious, so we're looking for unique and/or well thought out questions. You can either leave them in a comment, or shoot us an email at fancast [at] xbox360fanboy [dot] com.

JoystiqFancast: Got a question for Major Nelson? originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Mar 2007 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Fan CastFanCastLarryLarry HrybLarryHrybMajorMajor NelsonMajorNelsonpod castPodCastX 3 FX3FXbox 360 FancastXbox360FancastWed, 28 Mar 2007 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live security foiled by smooth talkers, not hackers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/23/xbox-live-security-foiled-by-smooth-talkers-not-hackers/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/23/xbox-live-security-foiled-by-smooth-talkers-not-hackers/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/23/xbox-live-security-foiled-by-smooth-talkers-not-hackers/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Do not be alarmed, maniacally typing hackers have not invaded, penetrated or otherwise violated the Bungie.net or Xbox Live networks. This was the message delivered by Microsoft's Major Nelson earlier this week after reports indicated that Xbox Live user information had fallen into the wrong and noticeably greasy hands. However, it seems the firewalls and encryption routines provided by computers are doing a much better job than those organic meatbags that operate the Xbox support call center.

Major Nelson writes in his latest post that some Xbox Live accounts may have already been compromised thanks to phonies phoning in and extracting sensitive information via the use of pretexting -- the invention of a scenario that fools the operator into divulging your precious data. "There's no other way to say it; this situation shouldn't have happened. Our customers deserve better." The Major promises that support staff will be better trained and be made aware of such "social engineering" attempts.

While the transparency is appreciated, it's alarming to think that Xbox Live security is succumbing to one of the oldest tricks in what's, by now, a rather pig-eared book.

JoystiqXbox Live security foiled by smooth talkers, not hackers originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 Mar 2007 22:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Major NelsonMajorNelsonMicrosoftXbox LiveXbox Live SecurityXbox-360XboxLiveXboxLiveSecurityFri, 23 Mar 2007 22:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live maintenance next Tuesday, purely housekeeping]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/23/xbox-live-maintenance-next-tuesday-purely-housekeeping/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/23/xbox-live-maintenance-next-tuesday-purely-housekeeping/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/23/xbox-live-maintenance-next-tuesday-purely-housekeeping/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Xbox Live maintenanceXbox Live will be down next Tuesday for 14 hours from 3AM until 5PM EST, so you shouldn't plan any marathon sessions of online gaming with your Xbox ... because you'll be a very unhappy camper. Major Nelson said this is only for internal maintenance, and there won't be any new updates to the Dashboard or anything nifty like that happening.

So prepare for an all-night session on Monday right up until the plug is pulled if you really want to get your gaming on. Fourteen hours seems like a long time for internal maintenance ... could there be something else going on behind the scenes?

JoystiqXbox Live maintenance next Tuesday, purely housekeeping originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 Mar 2007 16:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>downloadmaintenanceMajor NelsonMicrosoftonlineupdateXBLXboxXbox LiveXbox-360XboxLiveFri, 23 Mar 2007 16:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Major Nelson: No Xbox Live security breach]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/21/major-nelson-no-xbox-live-security-breach/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/21/major-nelson-no-xbox-live-security-breach/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/21/major-nelson-no-xbox-live-security-breach/#commentsFiled under: ,

Major Nelson has issued a statement dismissing recent reports that there has been a collapse in security with Xbox Live and Bungie.net. Nelson says, "Despite some recent reports and speculation, I want to reassure all of our 6 million Xbox Live members that we have looked into the situation and found no evidence of any compromise of the security of the Xbox Live Network or Bungie.net."

Nelson goes on to say that there have been "isolated incidents" where users are trying to gain personal information. Microsoft is offering a PDF on how to protect yourself against identity theft. Seriously though, it's the internets, there are predators out there trying to steal your identity. Don't ever give someone your passwords or personal info.

JoystiqMajor Nelson: No Xbox Live security breach originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Mar 2007 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dismissedmajor nelsonmicrosoftsecurity breachXbox-360Wed, 21 Mar 2007 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC 07: Major Nelson and his Sony swag bag]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/07/gdc-07-major-nelson-and-his-sony-swag-bag/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/07/gdc-07-major-nelson-and-his-sony-swag-bag/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/07/gdc-07-major-nelson-and-his-sony-swag-bag/#commentsFiled under: ,


Make no mistake, covering a conference is mind bending work. Getting a chance to stop and chat is a welcome respite. While waiting for the Microsoft RPG Panel to begin, we ran into Larry Hryb, better known as Xbox Live's Major Nelson. We had time to shoot the breeze about what's happening at GDC, including the super secret feature in Fable 2 (patience, it's coming). Before we ran off to do our blogging duty, we made sure to snag a picture of him holding his newly acquired and highly fashionable Sony swag bag. What was in it we can't say (a golden PSP perhaps) but we sure like those snazzy logos. Much to our shock and delight, Larry asked us why he hadn't been given the honor of appearing on the Xbox 360 Fancast.

Soon, Major, very soon.

JoystiqGDC 07: Major Nelson and his Sony swag bag originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Mar 2007 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gdc 07GDC-2007Gdc07larry hrybLarryHrybmajor nelsonMajorNelsonWed, 07 Mar 2007 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Live top ten: Sin City descends]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/05/live-top-ten-sin-city-descends/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/05/live-top-ten-sin-city-descends/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/05/live-top-ten-sin-city-descends/#commentsFiled under: ,


Last week, Crackdown came on strong with bronze position on the Live top ten. Now it's swapped spots with Rainbow Six: Vegas as Call of Duty 3 continues to be just shy of the podium. GRAW 2's mulitplayer demo makes a return to take the Crackdown demo's position, which moved to 7th. Madden refuses to budge at sixth while Lost Planet and Oblivion get nudged to eighth and ninth, respectively. GRAW rounds out the bottom of the list while last, and obviously not least, Gears of War retains its top spot over all of Xbox Live-dom. Do you feel slightly confused? If so, our simple, yet eloquent list awaits your review after the break, complete with last weeks standings in parentheses.

Continue reading Live top ten: Sin City descends

JoystiqLive top ten: Sin City descends originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Mar 2007 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActionActivityC o D 3Call of Duty 3CallOfDuty3COD3CrackDownGearsOfWarGOWGRAWGRAW2HrybLarryLarry HrybLarryHryblive top tenLiveTopTenMajorMajor NelsonMajorNelsonMicrosoft-Game-StudiosNelsonRaibow Six VegasRaibowSixVegasRealtime-WorldsRiot-ActSandboxtop 10Top tenTop10TopTenXbox LiveXbox Live ActivityXbox Live top 10Xbox Live top TenXboxLiveXboxLiveActivityXboxLiveTop10XboxLiveTopTenMon, 05 Mar 2007 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live maintenance scheduled for tomorrow]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/19/xbox-live-maintenance-scheduled-for-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/19/xbox-live-maintenance-scheduled-for-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/19/xbox-live-maintenance-scheduled-for-tomorrow/#commentsFiled under: ,

Those hoping to maim or possibly kill complete strangers in the early hours of the morning will need to leave the comfort of their homes this February 20th, as the Xbox Live network will be out of commission then from 2AM to 5AM PT (check your time zone). The "My Xbox" section of Xbox.com will be unavailable during this time, and those hoping to express their grievances about it will find the official forums set to read-only mode.

Major Nelson insists that server maintenance is solely to blame for the downtime -- no new features will accompany Live's return.

JoystiqXbox Live maintenance scheduled for tomorrow originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Feb 2007 19:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Major NelsonMajorNelsonXBLAXbox LiveXbox Live ArcadeXbox-360XboxLiveXboxLiveArcadeMon, 19 Feb 2007 19:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox.com no message mystery: Part deux]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/19/xbox-com-no-message-mystery-part-deux/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/19/xbox-com-no-message-mystery-part-deux/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/19/xbox-com-no-message-mystery-part-deux/#commentsFiled under: ,


Indeed, we pride ourselves on being stealth investigative reporters, similar to Sam Fisher, but with a hint of Sherlock Holmes. So, when we cracked the Xbox.com no message mystery we were rightfully proud of ourselves, giving up the high-fives around Fanboy Towers. But we didn't uncover all of the truth, because the "Bear" gamertag eluded us and as a result ended up with a mediocre report. That is until now, where we recently discovered (via Major Nelson's podcast blogcast) that Bear is really Scott Henson! Ha Scotty, and you thought you could just keep on running didn't you? And so you know, Mr. Henson is the director of Microsoft's Game Technology Group and is actually one cool dude. Chalk another successful investigation for team Xbox 360 Fanboy ... because we're like mini Sherlock Fishers, remember?

[Thanks, Iced_Eagle]

JoystiqXbox.com no message mystery: Part deux originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Feb 2007 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bearmajor nelsonMajorNelsonscott hensonScottHensonxboxxbox livexbox.comXboxLiveMon, 19 Feb 2007 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Major Nelson wants your Marketplace rules]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/06/major-nelson-wants-your-marketplace-rules/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/06/major-nelson-wants-your-marketplace-rules/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/06/major-nelson-wants-your-marketplace-rules/#commentsFiled under:

Inspired by the recent changes to the gamerscore policy, Major Nelson is asking for user feedback on defining new rules for the Xbox Live Marketplace. Of course, there are rules and policies around Marketplace content right now, but Major Nelson is looking for suggestions from all 360 users to make it better. If you're interested in contributing to the conversation, head over to Major Nelson and tell him what you think. Let's try and keep the suggestions constructive, too. "Faster download speeds" is really a given and doesn't add to the conversation.

We'd like to go on record and agree with one of the first suggestions: no charging for cheat codes. If you make any suggestions, be sure to post them here as well.

Anyone have any bright ideas?

JoystiqMajor Nelson wants your Marketplace rules originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Feb 2007 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>live marketplaceLiveMarketplacemajor nelsonMajorNelsonmarketplacexblmxbox live marketplaceXboxLiveMarketplaceTue, 06 Feb 2007 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[ Crackdown Demo climbs up Top Live Titles]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/04/crackdown-demo-climbs-up-top-live-titles/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/04/crackdown-demo-climbs-up-top-live-titles/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/04/crackdown-demo-climbs-up-top-live-titles/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Yesterday, Major Nelson released his weekly report regarding the Xbox Live activity, and the results caught us off guard. No, Halo 2 didn't beat out Gears of War due to the Halo 3 beta's Rule of 3 phase. Crackdown's demo came in 2nd for unique users on Xbox Live. It even toppled Rainbow Six Vegas, which is equally surprising. Obviously the game is a lot of fun and people are enjoying the demo, and doesn't need a marketing ploy to sell copies. The thing that we're curious about is how the Crackdown demo compared to Halo 2's unique user count? Then again, perhaps the Rule of Three kept Halo 2 as second overall between Xbox and Xbox 360 combined. So, obviously, some of you must have been playing the demo, have you done anything cool this past week in Crackdown?

Joystiq Crackdown Demo climbs up Top Live Titles originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 04 Feb 2007 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crackdown DemoCrackdownDemoGears of WarGearsOfWarHalo 3 BetaHalo3BetaMajor NelsonMajorNelsonMGSMicrosoft Game StudiosMicrosoftGameStudiosPhases 2Phases2Rainbow Six VegasRainbowSixVegasRealtime WorldsRealtimeWorldsRenderwareRule of ThreeRuleOfThreeXbox Live ActivityXboxLiveActivitySun, 04 Feb 2007 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fetch new movies, shows, and music off the XBLM]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/01/fetch-new-movies-shows-and-music-off-the-xblm/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/01/fetch-new-movies-shows-and-music-off-the-xblm/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/01/fetch-new-movies-shows-and-music-off-the-xblm/#commentsFiled under: ,

Major Nelson just posted a list of what content will be coming to the XBLM this week. It looks like we've only got one movie (Hunt for Red October), but a few good television shows. They are even giving us an episode of Pros v. Joes and The Sarah Silverman Program for FREE, but only for limited time. And there's a new Artist of the Month, erm ... this month. Compose yourself and give it up for this month's Artist of the Month Good Charlotte (thunderous applause)! We just love teenage angst music ... it makes us feel good about ourselves. Check out the complete list of new XBLM content after the break.

Continue reading Fetch new movies, shows, and music off the XBLM

JoystiqFetch new movies, shows, and music off the XBLM originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 01 Feb 2007 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>major nelsonMajorNelsonmarketplacemoviesmusictelevisiontvxblmxbox livexbox live marketplaceXboxLiveXboxLiveMarketplaceThu, 01 Feb 2007 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[24 Season 6: Free picture pack and theme]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/12/24-season-6-free-picture-pack-and-theme/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/12/24-season-6-free-picture-pack-and-theme/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/12/24-season-6-free-picture-pack-and-theme/#commentsFiled under: ,


It has been a while since we got our greedy hands on some free themes or picture packs from the Marketplace. No worries though, because Major Nelson sent word that there are some free goods today! Just in time for the television series 24 season premiere, head to the Xbox Live Marketplace to download your free 24 Season 6 theme and picture pack. If you love Jack Bauer or just free stuff, then get a downloading right now. Don't you just love the smell of free content on Fridays?

Joystiq24 Season 6: Free picture pack and theme originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Jan 2007 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>24major nelsonMajorNelsonmarketplacepicture packPicturePackthemexbox livexbox live marketplaceXboxLiveXboxLiveMarketplaceFri, 12 Jan 2007 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Double Agent and Vegas for $39.99]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/04/double-agent-and-vegas-for-39-99/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/04/double-agent-and-vegas-for-39-99/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/04/double-agent-and-vegas-for-39-99/#commentsFiled under:


Major Nelson brings word that Best Buy has Rainbow Six: Vegas on sale for $39.99. We checked it out and found out that Splinter Cell: Double Agent is available for $39.99 as well. If you've been waiting to pick up either one of these games, you could do a lot worse than a $20 discount. While you're at it, you may want to pick up a copy of Project 8 or Madden 07, which are on sale for the slightly less attractive price of $49.99. As an added bonus, you can get an additional $10 off of any of these titles if you pre-order Lost Planet. Vegas for $29? Not bad. Anyone else find any good deals today?

[Via Major Nelson]

JoystiqDouble Agent and Vegas for $39.99 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Jan 2007 16:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>double agentDoubleAgentmadden 07Madden07major nelsonMajorNelsonproject 8Project8rainbow six vegasRainbowSixVegasscdavegasThu, 04 Jan 2007 16:05:00 EST<![CDATA[He conquered the wind, welcome back Major!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/18/he-conquered-the-wind-welcome-back-major/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/18/he-conquered-the-wind-welcome-back-major/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/18/he-conquered-the-wind-welcome-back-major/#commentsFiled under: ,

If you haven't noticed, our buddy Major Nelson hasn't been blogging or doing many online activities lately. It wasn't because he hated us or because he had to find his spiritual center, but because his power went out due to a powerful wind storm. We guess living in Washington state during a freak wind storm causes lots of problems and we're just glad Major made it through not having internet access for days on end. Stop on over at Major Nelson's blog and welcome him back fanboy style (whatever that is).

JoystiqHe conquered the wind, welcome back Major! originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Dec 2006 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>majormajor nelsonMajorNelsonxbox liveXboxLiveMon, 18 Dec 2006 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[FTC: Viral ties must be disclosed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/12/ftc-viral-ties-must-be-disclosed/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/12/ftc-viral-ties-must-be-disclosed/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/12/ftc-viral-ties-must-be-disclosed/#commentsFiled under: ,

The U.S. Federal Trade Commission yesterday said that companies must disclose ties in word-of-mouth marketing campaigns. These fake grass-roots efforts -- dubbed "astroturfing" by critics -- hire people to endorse products as themselves, rather than as company representatives.

The FTC didn't announce any specific action or fines against this type of misleading marketing, although it may investigate campaigns on a case-by-case basis. The Washington Post covers the story.

Gamers see these sorts of campaigns all the time, from fake commentors who are actually paid marketers to the recent fake-PSP-fan weblog. While this kind of hidden corporate sponsorship makes us distrustful, we think better of companies, like Ubisoft, that disclose ties to its affiliates like the Frag Dolls. We most like the Major Nelson-type relationships, where a weblog spokesperson and a company are obviously linked.

JoystiqFTC: Viral ties must be disclosed originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Dec 2006 17:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>federal trade comissionFederalTradeComissionFrag DollsFragDollsFTCMajor NelsonMajorNelsonTue, 12 Dec 2006 17:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Viva Piñata missing from top Xbox Live titles]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/09/viva-pi-ata-missing-from-top-xbox-live-titles/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/09/viva-pi-ata-missing-from-top-xbox-live-titles/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/09/viva-pi-ata-missing-from-top-xbox-live-titles/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Viva PiñataMajor Nelson has released this week's Xbox Live activity report*. Gears of War is still atop the heap, but where's Viva Piñata?

Microsoft's 'other' big holiday title has enjoyed favorable reception, but continues to maintain a low profile. Perhaps most of the kid-centric fanbase is unplugged, but we're wondering if some older gamers are signing out of their Live accounts before doing the Piñata dance. After all, a gamertag like '[l33t]murd3rd34thk1ll187' would lose its impact if an all-night session of Viva Piñata was being broadcast to Xbox Live community members.

In related news, check out the Lost Planet multiplayer demo's position; it currently ranks fourth among Xbox 360's most popular Live titles. Could this be foreshadowing another Capcom hit, or is it just proof that we love freebies?

*Activity lists are calculated using data collected from unique Xbox Live users (all games are included; not just multiplayer titles).

JoystiqViva Piñata missing from top Xbox Live titles originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 09 Dec 2006 15:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>360Gears of WarGearsOfWarLost PlanetLostPlanetMajor NelsonMajorNelsonMultiplayerViva PiñataVivaPiñataXbox LiveXbox-360XboxLiveSat, 09 Dec 2006 15:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Shadowrun will have party based Live play]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/06/shadowrun-will-have-party-based-live-play/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/06/shadowrun-will-have-party-based-live-play/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/06/shadowrun-will-have-party-based-live-play/#commentsFiled under: ,


Shadowrun, Microsoft's Live Anywhere launch title, is coming along nicely, according to Lead Designer, John Howard. Howard is interviewed in the latest episode of Major Nelson's blogcast and speaks at length about his job and the development of Shadowrun. A few choice bits of information are revealed, chief among them is that Shadowrun will feature a party based online system similar to Halo 2. What this means is that friends will be able to form a party online and face other players as a team. Many of you will remember that Gears of War has been criticized for lacking such a system. With Shadowrun now including a party system, Epic's excuse for excluding the feature -- essentially, "Microsoft made us do it" -- is getting flimsier all the time. Howard also speaks to the age old debate of mouse vs. controller, stating that the issue doesn't even come up during Shadowrun play tests. He goes on to say that the controls were designed for the 360 first, which may explain how well they work. In fact, he says that many testers actually prefer the gamepad to a keyboard and mouse combo. Head over to Major Nelson to hear the whole interview. And, don't forget to sign up for the Shadowrun beta if you're interested.

JoystiqShadowrun will have party based Live play originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Dec 2006 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fasafasa studioFasaStudiojohn howardJohnHowardmajor nelsonMajorNelsonWed, 06 Dec 2006 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 firmware ambiguities reiterate need for dedicated Sony blog]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/06/ps3-firmware-ambiguities-reiterate-need-for-dedicated-sony-blog/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/06/ps3-firmware-ambiguities-reiterate-need-for-dedicated-sony-blog/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/06/ps3-firmware-ambiguities-reiterate-need-for-dedicated-sony-blog/#commentsFiled under: , ,

blog it!Why can't Sony blog? That's the question Opposable Thumbs posed this morning as it reluctantly accepted the arrival of a new PlayStation 3 update, described simply as v1.3. Like other curious downloaders, the site turned to internet forums for details, finding only a jumbled mess of threads with contradictory opinions. Eventually, a translation of a Japanese explanation of the Japanese update was uncovered. Phew!

So why is Sony making it so hard on us? Why no Major Nelson or Gamerscoresque blog? Certainly the semi-official Three Speech site isn't up to the task -- this morning's posts neglected to mention the update even in passing. There's simply no excuse for not providing the public with a dedicated space on the PlayStation website or elsewhere that provides timely information about firmware updates and other content additions.

JoystiqPS3 firmware ambiguities reiterate need for dedicated Sony blog originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Dec 2006 12:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BlogDownloadFirmwareMajor NelsonMajorNelsonPS3SonyUpdateWed, 06 Dec 2006 12:55:00 EST<![CDATA[EA offering free content? Hell has frozen over...]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/02/ea-offering-free-content-hell-has-frozen-over/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/02/ea-offering-free-content-hell-has-frozen-over/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/02/ea-offering-free-content-hell-has-frozen-over/#commentsFiled under: , ,


EA hasn't ever been known for their charitable giving ... never offering downloadable content for free, but today they're in a giving mood. Major Nelson is reporting that EA has put up FREE downloads from the XBLM offering NFL throwback jerseys for Madden 2007 and alternate jerseys for NCAA 2007. Yes, we did say free ... yes hell has frozen over ... yes pigs are flying and yes we are extremely paranoid. Go get your free jerseys off of the XBLM if you own either of these games, because we're dealing with EA and not certain how long these downloads will remain free (poke, poke, jab, jab).

JoystiqEA offering free content? Hell has frozen over... originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 02 Dec 2006 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic artsElectronicArtsmadden 2007Madden2007major nelsonMajorNelsonncaa 2007Ncaa2007Sat, 02 Dec 2006 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Texas Hold 'em gets fixed ... finally]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/29/texas-hold-em-gets-fixed-finally/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/29/texas-hold-em-gets-fixed-finally/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/29/texas-hold-em-gets-fixed-finally/#commentsFiled under: ,

A quick note for everyone, this morning users who login to the XBLA game Texas Hold 'em will be prompted to download an auto update. According to Major Nelson, this downloadable update will fix the numerous issues that have plagued this arcade game including:

- Game-play has been sped up.
- Post the blind and play right away!
- New 'Away' mode
- New 'Auto-boot' mode
- Faster overall pacing
- Improved blind structure
- Matchmaking improvements
- Improved interface controls
- Leaderboard display
- Art and text improvements
- Online exploits addressed

Now you can go back to gambling all your time away without all those annoying bugs. Overall, I'd have to say great work on the update guys, but couldn't it have arrived a little earlier?

[Thanks, to everyone who sent this in]

JoystiqTexas Hold 'em gets fixed ... finally originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Nov 2006 00:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>major nelsonMajorNelsontexas hold emTexasHoldEmxblaxbox live arcadeXboxLiveArcadeWed, 29 Nov 2006 00:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Vegas face mapping: Larry, meet Larry]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/27/vegas-face-mapping-larry-meet-larry/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/27/vegas-face-mapping-larry-meet-larry/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/27/vegas-face-mapping-larry-meet-larry/#commentsFiled under: ,


Larry Hryb, AKA Major Nelson, recently posted the results of his Rainbow Six Vegas facial mapping on his Flickr site. How does it look? Pretty good actually. We mocked up his in game avatar next to his real life mug in the image above. Vegas fans out there may be wondering how Major Nelson came by those cool shades and hat in Vegas. Does he have access to special content because he works for Microsoft? Nope, he was actually wearing those things when he captured his face with the Vision camera. Knowing this, we can only imagine the lengths that some people might go to in order to really customize their character. You want pink and blue camouflage face paint (you know, for sneaking around a cotton candy machine)? Just paint yourself up and take a picture! In theory, you could add anything to your face before you take the picture: tattoos, fake scars, crazy contact lenses, the possibilities are endless.

Now that you've seen the results, will you try anything special to customize your character?

JoystiqVegas face mapping: Larry, meet Larry originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 27 Nov 2006 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>live visionLiveVisionmajor nelsonMajorNelsonr6 vegasR6Vegasrainbow six vegasRainbowSixVegasubisoftvegasvisionvision cameraVisionCameraMon, 27 Nov 2006 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Burger King picture pack is FREE!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/27/burger-king-picture-pack-is-free/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/27/burger-king-picture-pack-is-free/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/27/burger-king-picture-pack-is-free/#commentsFiled under: , ,

If you are a fan of that scary BK King we all know and love from Burger King, then go to the XBLM and download the free Burger King picture pack. It includes a few BK King pictures, the big buckin' chicken, Whopper Jr. and others. And if you're having a little trouble locating the picture pack, (as I did) it's under the Xbox Community section. I think this subliminal advertising is taking effect, I have a weird jonesing for a Whopper and some fries. Don't be greedy, pass the ketchup packets!

JoystiqBurger King picture pack is FREE! originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 27 Nov 2006 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bk kingBkKingburger kingBurgerKingkingmajor nelsonMajorNelsonmarketplacepicture packPicturePackxblmMon, 27 Nov 2006 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GoW is king on XBL for 2nd straight week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/26/gow-is-king-on-xbl-for-2nd-straight-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/26/gow-is-king-on-xbl-for-2nd-straight-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/26/gow-is-king-on-xbl-for-2nd-straight-week/#commentsFiled under: , ,

For the second straight week Gears of War has maintained its position as the most played Xbox/Xbox 360 game on Xbox Live. Since last week Gears has claimed the number one spot, kicking Halo 2 from its number one seat that it has held for a few years. I'm thinking that Gears will be at the top spot for a long time to come, only seeing competition months down the road. Who's been obsessed with Gears multiplayer choosing to play it over Halo 2 recently?

[Thanks, un1qu3 n3wy0rk]

JoystiqGoW is king on XBL for 2nd straight week originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 26 Nov 2006 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epicepic gamesEpicGamesgears of warGearsOfWargowmajor nelsonMajorNelsonmicrosoft game studiosMicrosoftGameStudiosSun, 26 Nov 2006 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Engadget to host GoW charity game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/22/engadget-to-host-gow-charity-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/22/engadget-to-host-gow-charity-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/22/engadget-to-host-gow-charity-game/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Engadget is holding a charity, gaming auction, sending the proceeds to Save Darfur, a non-profit working to end the genocide in that region. The winning bid nets you and your friends a two-hour Gears of War session with Major Nelson and the Engadget staff. (Yes, Engadget understands the odd juxtaposition of virtual killing for actual peace, but the event had been planned before readers picked the charity.)

The no-reserve auction lasts a week. Bidding is open.

JoystiqEngadget to host GoW charity game originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Nov 2006 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Gears of PeaceGearsOfPeaceMajor NelsonMajorNelsonSave DarfurSaveDarfurXbox-360Wed, 22 Nov 2006 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[How much juice is left in your headset?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/04/how-much-juice-is-left-in-your-headset/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/04/how-much-juice-is-left-in-your-headset/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/04/how-much-juice-is-left-in-your-headset/#commentsFiled under: ,

So you've decided to cut the cord and purchase the new Xbox 360 wireless headset this weekend, good for you! But did you know about the snazzy new battery indicator that was enabled through the fall update?

Well, our friend Major Nelson informs us that you'll be able to check not only your wireless controller's battery life, but the battery life of your new wireless headset too. And all of this battery information is easily accessible through the Xbox guide and is displayed in convenient icon form. So I ask, are you planning on picking up the new wireless headset and freeing yourself of the wires?

JoystiqHow much juice is left in your headset? originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 04 Nov 2006 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dashboardfall updateFallUpdateheadsetmajor nelsonMajorNelsonwirelesswireless headsetWirelessHeadsetSat, 04 Nov 2006 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rift widens between Silver and Gold XBLA memberships]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/30/rift-widens-between-silver-and-gold-xbla-memberships/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/30/rift-widens-between-silver-and-gold-xbla-memberships/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/30/rift-widens-between-silver-and-gold-xbla-memberships/#commentsFiled under: ,

Xbox Live's Major Nelson announced on Wednesday that the newest Gears of War trailer was available online ... to Gold subscribers only. This marks the first time that exclusive XBL content has been delayed (not denied) for the free Silver members, and it's just the tip of the iceberg. Nelson commented on his blog entry after mixed reaction from readers, "So here is the deal ... Silver members WILL get access to this ... probably in about a week. This is going to happen more and more (Gold getting things before Silver) so you may want to think about upgrading if you want all the latest and greatest trailers, demos etc."

It's not really a big deal at this point, because the trailer was available online within seconds of appearing on the XBLM. The real problem starts when Gold members start getting demos and downloadable game content before Silver members do; perhaps, eventually, the Silver members won't get them at all. Microsoft will find themselves treading a fine line between how much a Silver member will put up with not having, and how much a Gold member needs to feel justified in paying the cost for their features. It's important to note that this trailer is most likely a trial run by Microsoft (through Major Nelson) to see how things go, since it's not even true "exclusive" content. Nelson (can we just call him Larry, already?) admits that this is the same commercial played last week at X06 Canada. So where's the real super exclusive platinum fanboy stuff, eh?

The point is that Microsoft is finally treating the Gold level like what it is supposed to be, a step above the Silver membership. Silver members don't pay for anything; it's a free service meant to provide an "introduction" to XBL. Gold members pay for additional features and, with it, they expect some perks to be delivered. While it's limited to trailers right now, expect to see it expand to demos, downloadable content, and anything else Microsoft can think about leveraging for more subscribers to make the jump up to the next tier while their model for microtransactions seems to be falling apart with the inmates running the asylum.

And just because we love you, check out that Gears trailer after the jump in SD, or click here for the HD version.

[Thanks, E.J.]

Continue reading Rift widens between Silver and Gold XBLA memberships

JoystiqRift widens between Silver and Gold XBLA memberships originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 Oct 2006 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Gears of WarGoldGoWMajor NelsonMajorNelsonMarketplacemembershipmicrotransactionsSilvertrailervideoXBLAXBLMXbox LiveXbox Live MarketplaceXbox-360Mon, 30 Oct 2006 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Major Nelson on G4: microtransactions "are about choice"]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/26/major-nelson-on-g4-microtransactions-are-about-choice/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/26/major-nelson-on-g4-microtransactions-are-about-choice/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/26/major-nelson-on-g4-microtransactions-are-about-choice/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Last night on G4's Attack of the Show, host Kevin Pereira held a debate between Major Nelson and 1UP's Andrew Pfister on the much-discussed topic of microtransactions. During the segment, entitled The Loop, Major Nelson pressed that it is "about choice," while Pfister spoke for the gaming community when he said that "it doesn't appear that anybody is in control of the situation." With the recent Godfather and Lumines debacles, we're inclined to agree.

Unfortunately, the segment's lead-in was awkward and the debate was way too short for either side to make an argument, but what we heard was engaging. Please, G4, give The Loop its own half-hour time slot; we'd watch it.

Continue reading for the video.

Continue reading Major Nelson on G4: microtransactions "are about choice"

JoystiqMajor Nelson on G4: microtransactions "are about choice" originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Oct 2006 21:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1upg4godfatherluminesmajor nelsonMajorNelsonmicro transactionsMicroTransactionsx b l ax b l mXBLAXBLMxbox liveXbox-360XboxLiveThu, 26 Oct 2006 21:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Major Nelson talks microtransations on G4]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/26/major-nelson-talks-microtransations-on-g4/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/26/major-nelson-talks-microtransations-on-g4/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/26/major-nelson-talks-microtransations-on-g4/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Major Nelson was featured on Attack of the Show last night. During "The Loop," Major Nelson discussed microtransactions with Kevin Pereira and Andrew Pfister, producer of 1UP Yours. The segment was too short, which is regrettable because it was actually very good. In fact, we'd love to see "The Loop" made into its own show. Naturally, Lumines was brought up. It was declared dishonest by Andrew, whereas Major Nelson reminded the audience that "it's about choice." They also briefly touched on EA's recent Godfather scandal. If you haven't heard, EA is charging 360 users for cheats. What's scary is that the cheats you can buy on Marketplace are available as cheat codes in the Xbox version. In other words EA actually removed the cheat codes from the 360 version just so they could make consumers pay for them. Unfortunately, the commentators just aren't given enough time to properly debate the issue. Here's hoping G4 sees the potential in this segment and gives "The Loop" some more air time. Watch the video after the break.

Continue reading Major Nelson talks microtransations on G4

JoystiqMajor Nelson talks microtransations on G4 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Oct 2006 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>luminesmajor nelsonMajorNelsonmarketplacemicropaymentsmicrotransactionsxblmxbox live arcadexbox live marketplaceXboxLiveArcadeXboxLiveMarketplaceThu, 26 Oct 2006 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Catch Major Nelson on G4]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/25/catch-major-nelson-on-g4-tonight/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/25/catch-major-nelson-on-g4-tonight/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/25/catch-major-nelson-on-g4-tonight/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We wouldn't normally suggest you watch anything on G4 (Cinematech is alright), but tonight could be something special. Tonight, Larry Hryb, Xbox Live's Major Nelson, will be featured on Attack of the Show's "The Loop" segment. The subject: microtransactions. Ooh, we smell a Lumines fight a comin'! If you'd like to watch, you can check it out at 7:00PM EDT (11:00PM GMT). Hey, it could be worse, right?

JoystiqCatch Major Nelson on G4 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Oct 2006 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>attack of the showAttackOfTheShowg4g4tvlarry hrybLarryHrybmajor nelsonMajorNelsonWed, 25 Oct 2006 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Fall dash update by October 31?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/24/fall-dash-update-by-october-31/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/24/fall-dash-update-by-october-31/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/24/fall-dash-update-by-october-31/#commentsFiled under:

Reader Thomas Meyer applies simple logic to Major Nelson's latest podcast and deduces that the Fall Dashboard Update should be out by next Tuesday:

Major Nelson says [76:20] that you cannot use the new Xbox 360 Wireless Communicator on a retail Xbox 360 yet and he tried it on his developer kit. Since the Communicator is scheduled for release on October 31st and people should be able to use it on that day, it's logical to assume that the Fall Update must be distributed no later than Oct 31st. Right?

Elementary, my dear Thomas. Microsoft would never sell their loyal customers a product that didn't work on launch day. Or would they?

JoystiqFall dash update by October 31? originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Oct 2006 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dashboard updateDashboardUpdatefallmajor nelsonMajorNelsonTue, 24 Oct 2006 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[XBL down for maintenance on Oct. 17th]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/12/xbl-down-for-maintenance-on-oct-17th/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/12/xbl-down-for-maintenance-on-oct-17th/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/12/xbl-down-for-maintenance-on-oct-17th/#commentsFiled under:

Major Nelson sends word that the Xbox Live network will soon disappear into a nebulous offline abyss for some maintenance. Currently scheduled for Tuesday, 17 October and expected to last for 24 hours, attempts by your Xbox 360 to connect to Live will be met with unnerving digital silence. Mark the date on your calendars and be sure to reschedule your planned sessions of disconnecting early, screaming into your headset and informing other players of their sexual orientation.

The official Xbox website will also be taken down and worked upon in order to accomodate "some secret cool stuff." None of which, as the site insists, includes a dashboard update. Incidentally, 17 October is also the release date for Splinter Cell: Double Agent.

[Via Major Nelson]

JoystiqXBL down for maintenance on Oct. 17th originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Oct 2006 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>LiveMajor NelsonMajorNelsonXBLXBLAXBLMXbox LiveXbox Live ArcadeXbox Live MarketplaceXbox-360XboxLiveXboxLiveArcadeXboxLiveMarketplaceThu, 12 Oct 2006 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[XBL downtime scheduled for Oct. 17th [update 1]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/12/xbl-downtime-scheduled-for-oct-17th/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/12/xbl-downtime-scheduled-for-oct-17th/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/12/xbl-downtime-scheduled-for-oct-17th/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Major Nelson has sent us word that there will be a day scheduled downtime for Xbox Live and Xbox.com on October 17th. October 17th ... hmmm. Why does that sound familiar. Wait a minute! That's when we get Double Agent. What the hell, man! And not only that, October 17th is the second to last day of the PSU beta -- which is already delayed to begin with. So what the hell do we do now Microsoft? What the hell do we do now?!

Ah well, guess we all gotta deal right? The boys at Xbox.com even suggest 10 things you can do without Live. And Major Nelson reminds us all that this is not the Fall dashboard update, though apparently "cool stuff" is being added. What that means is anyone's guess. Now we just figure out what to do. Anybody want to go bowling or something?

[Thanks, Larry, AKA Major Nelson]

Update: It's Xbox.com, not Box.com. Give me a break. I'm jet-lagged here.

JoystiqXBL downtime scheduled for Oct. 17th [update 1] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Oct 2006 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>downtimelarry hrybLarryHryblive anywhereLiveAnywheremajor nelsonMajorNelsonxbox livexbox live marketplaceXboxLiveXboxLiveMarketplaceThu, 12 Oct 2006 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Where's Sony's 'Major Nelson?']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/05/wheres-sonys-major-nelson/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/05/wheres-sonys-major-nelson/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/05/wheres-sonys-major-nelson/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

WRU?Sony lacks a community man, a public personality who is more than just a mouth. Sony lacks a Major Nelson.

Microsoft's Larry Hryb has emerged as a personality capable of transforming the Xbox image from a cold, black box into a lively community of gamers, both hardcore and casual. What's more, he's built his celebrity on trust, successfully balancing his employer's expectations with honest commentary produced for the consumer's sake. In other words, he's likeable -- and he's selling the brand. Does Sony need that guy to succeed?

[Thanks, Joe]

JoystiqWhere's Sony's 'Major Nelson?' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Oct 2006 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Major NelsonMajorNelsonPRPS2PS3PSPXboxXbox-360Thu, 05 Oct 2006 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 guitars tethered down by the man]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/28/xbox-360-guitars-tethered-down-by-the-man/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/28/xbox-360-guitars-tethered-down-by-the-man/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/28/xbox-360-guitars-tethered-down-by-the-man/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The man, of course, being represented here by a wire. According to a posting on Major Nelson's blog, the Xbox 360 guitar controller (in its current state) is not wireless as many free souls had hoped. Given these wired confines, perhaps the guitar's name, X-plorer, wasn't the greatest of choices. Still, we got along just fine with the PS2 version, so this tidbit of news hardly represents the end of the world as we know it.

If you're unwilling to let go of the wireless dream, perhaps you can read something into Major's final statement. "Not sure what the plans are for wireless and the people from Guitar Hero were not talking."

JoystiqXbox 360 guitars tethered down by the man originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Sep 2006 21:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Guitar HeroGuitar Hero IIGuitarHeroGuitarHeroIiMajor NelsonMajorNelsonPS2RedOctaneXbox-360Thu, 28 Sep 2006 21:15:00 EST<![CDATA[The first batch of Xbox Live TGS content [update 1]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/20/the-first-batch-of-xbox-live-tgs-content/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/20/the-first-batch-of-xbox-live-tgs-content/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/20/the-first-batch-of-xbox-live-tgs-content/#commentsFiled under: , ,

As promised, Microsoft has released the first batch of Xbox Live content to correspond with the Tokyo Games Show. The following is available to all Xbox Live users:
  • Half-Life 2: Episode Two trailer
  • Tenchu Senran trailer
  • Two map packs for Battle for Middle Earth II.
  • A TGS picture pack
  • Updates to Spades, Hearts, Backgammon and Bankshot Billards to add Vision support
In addition, Japanese Xbox 360 owners (yes, all five of you) will get the following:
  • Tenchu Senran demo
  • Dead or Alive X2 E3 trailer
  • Project Sylpheed trailer
A word of caution: there is an error with the new BFMEII content. The first map pack is supposed to be free but is currently charging gamers 350 MS points. Major Nelson promises that the problem will be fixed soon. The second map pack will still cost you 350 MS points (about $4.38).

One commenter on Major Nelson's blog, Cayne, summed up our sentiments perfectly: "I still don't get why stuff is only released in some countries. This is 2006 for god's sake. We have the intertube and everybody sees everything. The only thing it accomplishes is pissing everyone off eventually." We're not blaming Microsoft (as Kid Chemical points out, it's not exactly their fault) as much as we are lamenting over silly copyright issues: the Project Sylpheed trailer may be Japan-only right now, but don't be surprised if it winds up on YouTube or GameTrailers in the next day or two for any gamer in any region to view.

[Update 1: clarified significance of referencing Cayne's comment.]

JoystiqThe first batch of Xbox Live TGS content [update 1] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Sep 2006 08:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>major nelsonMajorNelsontgstgs 06Tgs06tgs2006tokyo games showTokyoGamesShowxbox liveXbox-360XboxLiveWed, 20 Sep 2006 08:55:00 EST