Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Report: Microsoft's NFL deal valued at $400 million over five years]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/report-microsofts-nfl-deal-valued-at-400-million-over-five-ye/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/report-microsofts-nfl-deal-valued-at-400-million-over-five-ye/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/report-microsofts-nfl-deal-valued-at-400-million-over-five-ye/#comments The NFL will receive $400 million from Microsoft over the next five years, according to an Associated Press source. The partnership was announced during Microsoft's Xbox One unveiling yesterday and will see NFL content coming to Microsoft's next-generation console.

As for the NFL side, fans will see Microsoft branding on-field during live games starting this upcoming season. Coaches and other team officials will be provided Microsoft Surface tablets, with the possibility of further technological innovations coming from Microsoft throughout the longevity of the deal.

The Xbox One will have interactive features integrated during broadcasts, including SmartGlass, group Skype calling and fantasy stats available during live NFL games. Recently, Amazon announced a limited edition version of Madden NFL 25 bundled with a free DirecTV NFL Sunday Ticket subscription.

JoystiqReport: Microsoft's NFL deal valued at $400 million over five years originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kinectmicrosoftnational-football-leaguenflxboxxbox-onexbox-revealWed, 22 May 2013 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox One features NFL live broadcasts, Smartglass, fantasy football]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/xbox-one-features-nfl-live-broadcasts-smartglass-fantasy-footba/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/xbox-one-features-nfl-live-broadcasts-smartglass-fantasy-footba/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/xbox-one-features-nfl-live-broadcasts-smartglass-fantasy-footba/#comments Microsoft will build a new relationship with the NFL on Xbox One. On Microsoft's new console, users will be able to take advantage of numerous interactive features available only on Xbox. These include Smartglass integration and the ability for users to see their fantasy football stats updated automatically while watching live broadcasts of the latest NFL games. Users will also be able to call and taunt their fantasy football friends via Skype.

JoystiqXbox One features NFL live broadcasts, Smartglass, fantasy football originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 May 2013 13:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kinectmicrosoftnflsmartglassxboxxbox-onexbox-revealTue, 21 May 2013 13:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Limited Amazon-exclusive Madden 25 special edition includes free Sunday Ticket subscription]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/limited-amazon-exclusive-madden-25-special-edition-includes-free/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/limited-amazon-exclusive-madden-25-special-edition-includes-free/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/limited-amazon-exclusive-madden-25-special-edition-includes-free/#comments Since Madden NFL 25 skipped 12 years is named to commemorate the series' 25th anniversary, it shouldn't be surprising that EA Sports recently unveiled a special Anniversary Edition. What is a little surprising are the contents of the special edition, which includes a free one-year subscription for DirecTV's NFL Sunday Ticket service, allowing fans to watch every out-of-market NFL game throughout the season.

EA Sports tells us that the subscription is limited to the NFL Sunday Ticket computer, tablet and mobile service. Additionally, those who are able to receive DirecTV service in their area can get $10 off per month for the service, which starts at $225, as well as a free subscription to the higher-tier NFL Sunday Ticket MAX.

The Anniversary Edition of Madden 25 is exclusive to Amazon, and limited to 50,000 copies on each of the game's platforms, Xbox 360 and PS3 (100,000 copies total). It will also include complimentary Madden Ultimate Team card packs every week of the NFL's 17-week regular season. Madden 25's Anniversary Edition is available to pre-order now on Amazon for $99.99.

JoystiqLimited Amazon-exclusive Madden 25 special edition includes free Sunday Ticket subscription originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 May 2013 13:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversary-editioneaea-sportsea-tiburonfootballmaddenmadden-25madden-nfl-25microsoftnflnfl-sunday-ticketplaystationpreorderps3special-editionsubscriptionxboxFri, 17 May 2013 13:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live kicks off 'Big Sports Weekend' with free UFC, MLB]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/xbox-live-kicks-off-big-sports-weekend-with-free-ufc-mlb/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/xbox-live-kicks-off-big-sports-weekend-with-free-ufc-mlb/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/xbox-live-kicks-off-big-sports-weekend-with-free-ufc-mlb/#comments Xbox Live kicks off 'Big Sports Weekend' with free UFC, MLBXbox Live is hosting a "Big Sports Weekend" event for both Gold and free subscribers that unlocks some sports content at no extra cost. Among the noteworthy unlocked features this weekend are the ability to watch out-of-market and on-demand MLB games normally limited to MLB.TV subscribers, full NFL Draft coverage on the ESPN app and seven free fights on the UFC app.

The seven UFC "story fights" all feature either Chael Sonnen or Jon Jones leading up to their UFC 159 encounter this Saturday, which is not part of the Xbox Live Big Sports Weekend package, as it's a pay-per-view event. Viewers can also access the NBA Game Time and NHL GameCenter apps for playoff highlights and recaps this weekend, but will need the standard subscriptions to watch live playoff games.

JoystiqXbox Live kicks off 'Big Sports Weekend' with free UFC, MLB originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Apr 2013 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appbig-sports-weekendchael-sonnenespnjon-jonesmicrosoftnbanflnhlufcufc-159xboxXbox-LiveThu, 25 Apr 2013 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[How Ubi is selling Assassin's Creed 3 to the general public]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/07/the-way-assassins-creed-3-intends-to-sell-the-general-public/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/07/the-way-assassins-creed-3-intends-to-sell-the-general-public/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/07/the-way-assassins-creed-3-intends-to-sell-the-general-public/#comments
Ubisoft debuted the above commercial for holiday blockbuster Assassin's Creed 3 alongside the opening of the NFL season this week, prompting one Joystiq editor's father to call the game "impressive." For us, it serves to highlight how we've become snobs about the music Ubisoft uses in its trailers. Hey, when you set such a high precedent, it's hard to shrug off just some boring old song, you know?

JoystiqHow Ubi is selling Assassin's Creed 3 to the general public originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 07 Sep 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>assassins-creed-3commercialgameplaymicrosoftmusic-snobsnational-football-leaguenflnintendopcplaystationps3ubisoftubisoft-montrealwii-uxboxFri, 07 Sep 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Madden 13's wrong photo leaves NFL star incensed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/29/madden-13s-wrong-photo-leaves-nfl-star-incensed/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/29/madden-13s-wrong-photo-leaves-nfl-star-incensed/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/29/madden-13s-wrong-photo-leaves-nfl-star-incensed/#comments Madden 13's wrong photo angers NFL star Marcus ThomasMadden NFL 13 endured league star Marcus Thomas' ire yesterday, Kotaku discovered, after the New York Giants player discovered the game had a photo of a completely different Marcus Thomas in his profile. The Marcus Thomas it did feature (below right, after the break) last played in the league three years ago. To make things worse, he didn't even play at the same team (Denver Broncos), and he looks nothing at all like the first Marcus Thomas (below left). All of that incensed the first Marcus Thomas.

Continue reading Madden 13's wrong photo leaves NFL star incensed

JoystiqMadden 13's wrong photo leaves NFL star incensed originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Aug 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EAea-sportsmadden-nfl-13microsoftNFLnintendoplaystationps3wiiwii-uxboxWed, 29 Aug 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Vikings' Adrian Peterson rehabs using specially-designed games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/12/vikings-adrian-peterson-rehabs-using-specially-designed-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/12/vikings-adrian-peterson-rehabs-using-specially-designed-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/12/vikings-adrian-peterson-rehabs-using-specially-designed-games/#comments Vikings' Adrian Peterson rehabs using speciallydesigned gamesAdrian Peterson, star running back for the Minnesota Vikings, suffered a torn ACL in December 2011. As part of Peterson's regiment to rehab his injured knee, he played Wii Fit and other specially-designed games to regain strength and balance.

As seen in a video on the team's site, Peterson uses a leg press machine to guide an on-screen icon through a maze of boxes in one game, and dodge falling balls in another. The exercise machine strengthens his knee while also providing him with something other than agonizing pain to focus on. With the high-powered training programs they're used to, it's interesting to see a pro football player include games like these as part of their recovery methods.

JoystiqVikings' Adrian Peterson rehabs using specially-designed games originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 12 Aug 2012 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adrian-petersonfootballminnesota-vikingsNFLnintendorehabRehabilitationvikingswiiwii-fitSun, 12 Aug 2012 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Madden 13's top ten running backs and quarterbacks revealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/08/madden-13s-top-ten-running-backs-and-quarterbacks-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/08/madden-13s-top-ten-running-backs-and-quarterbacks-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/08/madden-13s-top-ten-running-backs-and-quarterbacks-revealed/#comments
Leading up to the release of Madden NFL 13 on August 28, EA Sports started a campaign to reveal the oh-so-important player ratings last week. The developer at EA Tiburon has released a video featuring hall of fame running back Marshall Faulk, who discusses the game's initial top ten-ranked running backs.

Over the course of the week, fans can vote for individual players to receive the highest skill ratings in the speed, acceleration, trucking, and elusiveness categories on EA Sports' Madden NFL Facebook page. As of now, Chris Johnson (Tennessee Titans) and Marshawn Lynch (Seattle Seahawks) received the most votes for the speed and trucking categories, respectively.

Continue reading Madden 13's top ten running backs and quarterbacks revealed

JoystiqMadden 13's top ten running backs and quarterbacks revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Aug 2012 07:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EA-Sportsea-tiburonmadden-13madden-nfl-13microsoftNFLnintendoplayer-ratingsplaystationplaystation-vitaps3Quarterbacksrunning-backsvitawiixboxWed, 08 Aug 2012 07:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EA picks NY Giants as Super Bowl XLVI winner in Madden simulation]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/ea-super-bowl-46-prediction/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/ea-super-bowl-46-prediction/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/ea-super-bowl-46-prediction/#comments
Are you wondering who has the upper hand in this Sunday's National Football League sporting contest, but you're beyond trusting those silly old sports journalists? Let EA answer that for you, with its annual simulation of the Superbowl as conducted in Madden NFL 12 on Xbox 360. As evidenced in the video above, the New York Giants are set to overtake the New England Patriots in Superbowl 46 by three points (GO GIANTS WOOOO), with a field goal in the final quarter locking the win for big blue.

We might seem a tad dismissive, but EA has set a precedent in the past with annual predictions being spot on (at least in terms of a winner ... less so in terms of actual scores). That either tells us that Madden's numbers game has been spot on for several years, or that football is easily predicted. We'd rather avoid the pummeling that will assuredly result in supposing the latter, so we're gonna go with option A.

JoystiqEA picks NY Giants as Super Bowl XLVI winner in Madden simulation originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 Jan 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-sportselectronic-artsfootballmadden-nfl-12microsoftne-patriotsnew-england-patriotsnew-york-giantsnflny-giantssimulationsuperbowlsuperbowl-46superbowl-xlvixboxMon, 30 Jan 2012 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MLB: The Show dev leaves to become creative director on Madden]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/23/mlb-the-show-dev-leaves-to-become-creative-director-on-madden/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/23/mlb-the-show-dev-leaves-to-become-creative-director-on-madden/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/23/mlb-the-show-dev-leaves-to-become-creative-director-on-madden/#commentsKolbe Launchbaugh may not be a name you recognize (or pronounce correctly), but for the past 15 years he's been climbing the corporate ladder over at SCEA. He started out as a tester and, ever since the first edition launched back in 2006, has contributed to MLB: The Show's rise to prominence. Now he's leaving SCEA to take on the position of creative director at EA Sports.

More specifically, Launchbaugh will oversee the Madden franchise and take over the vacancy left by Ian Cummings back in April. In his farewell letter over on Operation Sports, Launchbaugh says he'll officially start at EA on January 9.

JoystiqMLB: The Show dev leaves to become creative director on Madden originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 Dec 2011 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-sportskolbe-launchbaughmadden-nfl-12microsoftnflplaystationps3xboxFri, 23 Dec 2011 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Why JRPGs should look at the NFL's playbook]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/25/why-jrpgs-should-look-at-the-nfls-playbook/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/25/why-jrpgs-should-look-at-the-nfls-playbook/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/25/why-jrpgs-should-look-at-the-nfls-playbook/#commentsThis is a column by Jason Schreier dedicated to the analysis (and occasional mocking) of his favorite genre, the Japanese role-playing game. Whether it's because they're too antiquated or just too niche, he believes JRPGs don't get enough attention in the gaming industry today. It's time to change that.


Joystiq's Ben Gilbert once bemusedly pointed out that my taste in games oscillates between "kawaii!" and "yeah bro!" This is true. Two of the games I enjoyed most this year were Radiant Historia and Madden NFL 12, which is about as huge a disparity as you can get without diving into the terrifying click fields of games like FarmVille.

But wait a minute. Are they really all that different? Sure, the National Football League athletes who lend their images to Madden might not have much in common with the anime-like sprites of a Japanese RPG, but in terms of game design, there are some striking similarities.

As Kill Screen Editor-in-Chief Chris Dahlen pointed out in a GameSpy article last year, football is, at its core, a strategy role-playing game. Each team gets several turns to move the ball down the field, during which they can select from a variety of different attacks. Competing teams match wits over field position and strategy in an attempt to wrest an advantage. At the end of the game, whichever team does the most damage -- or scores the most points -- wins.

Though it has been tweaked quite a bit over the past century, the core rules of football have remained the same since the forward pass was introduced over 100 years ago. It is America's most popular sport for a reason: it is an extraordinarily well-designed game.

Perhaps it could teach JRPG developers a thing or two about combat.

Continue reading Why JRPGs should look at the NFL's playbook

JoystiqWhy JRPGs should look at the NFL's playbook originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 Nov 2011 16:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsfootballjrpgmicrosoftnflnintendoplaystationps3pspsonywiixboxFri, 25 Nov 2011 16:16:00 EST<![CDATA[This Madden curse might actually be a real thing: Peyton Hillis is injured]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/05/this-madden-curse-might-actually-be-a-real-thing-peyton-hillis/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/05/this-madden-curse-might-actually-be-a-real-thing-peyton-hillis/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/05/this-madden-curse-might-actually-be-a-real-thing-peyton-hillis/#comments Peyton Hillis should have known better. During the haze of jubilation when he was voted to the cover of Madden 12, the rational voice in the back of his mind should have warned him. The Curse. Hillis has missed the Cleveland Browns' past two games, and he is expected to sit out Sunday's game at Houston with a hamstring injury that seems so stubborn that it's almost supernatural.

The higher the climb, the harder the fall -- on your hamstring, Hillis. Enjoy your cover art. Muhahahaha.

JoystiqThis Madden curse might actually be a real thing: Peyton Hillis is injured originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 05 Nov 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>madden-cursemadden-nfl-12microsoftmuhahahahanational-football-leaguenflpeyton-hillisplaystationps3xboxSat, 05 Nov 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Madden NFL 12 review: Vacuum-sealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/26/madden-nfl-12-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/26/madden-nfl-12-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/26/madden-nfl-12-review/#comments Reviewing, let alone investing in an annual sports game series is difficult. In my experience, Madden fans are typically the reluctant type; they hope for vast improvements every year and expect a new game that will blow them away. Madden NFL 12 is not that game. It's not the kind of game that answers every problem players have with football games. But this year, EA Sports tackled some core issues that elevates this game as one of the best in the series.

Gallery: Madden NFL 12 (8/25/11)

Continue reading Madden NFL 12 review: Vacuum-sealed

JoystiqMadden NFL 12 review: Vacuum-sealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Aug 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-sportsfootballMaddenmadden-nfl-12microsoftNFLplaystationps3xboxFri, 26 Aug 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Class action suit filed against EA Sports over football monopoly]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/06/class-action-suit-filed-against-ea-sports-over-football-monopoly/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/06/class-action-suit-filed-against-ea-sports-over-football-monopoly/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/06/class-action-suit-filed-against-ea-sports-over-football-monopoly/#comments The Madden lawsuit season is beginning! If you bought one of EA Sports' Madden, NCAA, or even Arena Football games between 2005 and now, you might be receiving an email naming you as part of a "class" of plaintiffs in a class action suit against EA.

The case "Pecover V. Electronic Arts, Inc." claims that EA's exclusive licenses "foreclosed competition in an alleged football video game market." Because of this lack of competition, the plaintiffs in the case claim that this monopoly allowed EA to overcharge for its games (even though EA Sports games cost the same as most other mass-market console games).

Right now, you're a member of the "class" of allegedly fleeced football fans if you bought any of the games, unless you bought them on a mobile platform, pre-owned, directly from EA, or while working for EA. If you want to opt out of the class (what -- you don't want to be part of something?), you can do so by following the instructions here. We've contacted EA for comment.

JoystiqClass action suit filed against EA Sports over football monopoly originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Apr 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>class-actionea-sports-arena-footballfootballlawsuitmaddenmadden-nflncaa-footballnflWed, 06 Apr 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: EA and NFL restructure exclusivity deal amid work stoppage fears]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/report-ea-and-nfl-restructure-exclusivity-deal-amid-work-stoppa/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/report-ea-and-nfl-restructure-exclusivity-deal-amid-work-stoppa/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/report-ea-and-nfl-restructure-exclusivity-deal-amid-work-stoppa/#comments The NFL has cut EA a break, reports SportsBusiness Journal, reducing the Madden maker's licensing fee by an undisclosed amount for the next football season, which remains in jeopardy as the current collective bargaining agreement between the league and the players' union is set to expire March 4 and, so far, renegotiations have been futile. If a new CBA is not drawn between the two sides before the current contract expires, it could result in a work stoppage -- in other words, no football come fall.

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

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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dseaea-sportsexclusivitylicenselicensingmadden-nfl-12microsoftmobilenflnflpanintendoplaystationps3pspsonywiixboxTue, 15 Feb 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[NFL Hall of Famer Jim Brown appeals dismissed lawsuit against EA]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/07/nfl-hall-of-famer-jim-brown-appeals-dismissed-lawsuit-against-ea/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/07/nfl-hall-of-famer-jim-brown-appeals-dismissed-lawsuit-against-ea/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/07/nfl-hall-of-famer-jim-brown-appeals-dismissed-lawsuit-against-ea/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Jim Brown, nine-season running back for the Cleveland Browns and NFL Hall of Fame inductee, filed a lawsuit against Electronic Arts in 2008 for using his likeness in Madden '09 without first obtaining his permission. Last September, U.S. District Judge Florence-Marie Cooper (who passed away in January from lymphoma) ruled that EA was protected by First Amendment rights -- a decision which Brown is now attempting to overturn in a San Francisco appellate court.

Brown requested the review earlier this week at the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. According to the Associated Press, EA representative Jeff Brown emailed the New York Times, saying the industry juggernaut is "confident" the ruling won't change. So, for those of you keeping score: EA's Jeff Brown says Jim Brown from the Browns won't win.

JoystiqNFL Hall of Famer Jim Brown appeals dismissed lawsuit against EA originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Jul 2010 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-sportsjim-brownlawsuitlegalMadden-09Madden-NFL-09microsoftnflnintendoplaystationps3wiixboxWed, 07 Jul 2010 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Browser-based QuickHit Football catches NFL licensing deal]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/10/browser-based-quickhit-football-catches-nfl-licensing-deal/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/10/browser-based-quickhit-football-catches-nfl-licensing-deal/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/10/browser-based-quickhit-football-catches-nfl-licensing-deal/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Browser game developer Quick Hit, Inc. has announced that it has secured the rights to use NFL teams, logos, uniforms and all other trademarks associated with the league during the next "season" of its flagship online sports title, QuickHit Football. The game will also feature current NFL coaches and players, as well as legends, like Barry Sanders.

When the license goes into effect this fall, users will be able to play through a season or go head-to-head using their favorite professional teams and will have the ability to customize the rosters and sign new -- and old -- players using Coaching Points they've accrued over their careers. You can check out the current version of QuickHit for free on the game's official site.

Clarifying that Quick Hit's deal does not violate EA Sports' exclusivity agreement with the NFL, an EA representative told Joystiq that "the exclusivity agreements we have with the NFL and NFLPA have always been specific to football simulations on video game consoles."

Hopefully 2K will get this message and start working on one of those electric, vibrating football board games.

JoystiqBrowser-based QuickHit Football catches NFL licensing deal originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Jun 2010 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browser-basedfootballlicensenflpcquick-hitquickhit-footballsportsThu, 10 Jun 2010 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Supreme Court ruling states NFL teams are separate entities]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/24/supreme-court-ruling-states-nfl-teams-are-separate-entities/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/24/supreme-court-ruling-states-nfl-teams-are-separate-entities/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/24/supreme-court-ruling-states-nfl-teams-are-separate-entities/#comments According to USA Today, a recent Supreme Court ruling has denied the National Football League antitrust law protections, stating that its 32 constituent teams must be considered separate entities. The court reversed the dismissal of a suit filed against the league by American Needle, Inc., a company which was locked out of the football-themed hatmaking business after the NFL penned a 10-year exclusivity agreement with Reebok. Gee, that sounds awfully familiar.

The case of American Needle v. NFL has returned to the lower courts, where a decision in favor of the former could drastically change the face of the NFL's licensing business. In short, if the district courts find the league in violation of antitrust laws, it could repeal exclusivity agreements like the one with Reebok -- or, likely more pertinent to your interests, the one with EA Sports, which brought a hasty end to the NFL2K series. We'll keep an eye out for further developments in this lawsuit.

JoystiqSupreme Court ruling states NFL teams are separate entities originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 24 May 2010 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antitrusteaea-sportsElectronic-Artsfootballlawsuitmaddenmadden-11nflnfl-2ksportssupreme-courtMon, 24 May 2010 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[iPad Roundup: Here's the stuff that may interest you]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/02/ipad-roundup-heres-the-stuff-that-may-interest-you/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/02/ipad-roundup-heres-the-stuff-that-may-interest-you/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/02/ipad-roundup-heres-the-stuff-that-may-interest-you/#comments With the iPad set to launch April 3, we know a lot of you out there are wondering what types of games and apps there are to look forward to. Well, we reprogrammed the Joystiq bots to scour the iTunes App store for information on updates and new games, culling the data for you all. There's plenty to look forward to, so don't waste time reading this -- head past the break for the goods!

Continue reading iPad Roundup: Here's the stuff that may interest you

JoystiqiPad Roundup: Here's the stuff that may interest you originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Apr 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>10-ton-games-inc2k-gamesactivisionamazon-hidden-expeditionangry-birdsangry-birds-hdapple-ipadasphaltasphalt-5azkend-hdbig-fish-gamesbreak-hdcall-of-dutycall-of-duty-world-at-warcall-of-duty-world-at-war-zombiescastlecraftcharadiumchillingoCivilizationcivilization-revolutioncogscogs-hdCommand-and-Conquercommand-and-conquer-red-alertdoonsdoons-hddungeon-hunterdungeon-hunter-hdeaElectronic-Artsfieldrunnersfiremintfiremint-incflick-bowlingflick-fishingflight-controlflight-control-hdfreeversefroggerfrogger-padgameloftgeometry-warsgluglyder-2imahjongimahjong-hdipadipad-launcjirbokonamilaminar-researcglets-golfmarvelmarvel-comicsmarvel-comics-appmetal-gear-solidmetal-gear-solid-touchminigoreminigore-hdmirrors-edgemodern-combatmodern-combat-sandstormnamconba-hotshotneed-for-speedneed-for-speed-shiftnflnfl-2010nfl-2010-hdngmoconovapac-manpaper-footballpaper-football-hdplants-vs-zombiesplants-vs-zombies-hdpopcappopcap-gamesreal-racingreal-racing-hdreal-soccerreal-soccer-2010-hdsam-and-maxscrabblesecret-exit-ltdsegasneeziessneezies-hdsnowboardingsnowboarding-hdsparkle-hdsubatomicsubatomic-studiossuper-monkey-ballsuper-monkey-ball-2super-monkey-ball-2-sakura-editionteam-17telltale-gamestetristhe-penal-zoneunouno-hdwarpgatewe-rulex-planezen-boundzen-bound-2Fri, 02 Apr 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EA Sports honors 'Game Changers' in its online communities]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/17/ea-sports-honors-game-changers-in-its-online-communities/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/17/ea-sports-honors-game-changers-in-its-online-communities/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/17/ea-sports-honors-game-changers-in-its-online-communities/#comments Over the weekend, EA Sports announced a new community influencers program that it's calling "Game Changers" -- the idea is that the publisher will choose big EA sports fans who use their online community know-how "to improve the experience and overall growth of the EA SPORTS Community." Presumably, you have to yell "EA Sports" whenever you say it, which would be why the name is in all caps. The chosen few will get early access to EA games, as well as represent the community while giving feedback on future releases.

They've picked nine guys (no girls) so far, all of whom are active in the various EA communities and forums. They've also posted a video of the program's kickoff, and while we were totally going to make fun of it for sounding like a cliched sports team ("It's the dream of a lifetime, we just go out there to do our best" and so on), that Anton B dude actually gets a little choked up at the end after being honored with Game Changer of the Month. So all right, Anton, we get it. This Game Changers thing may not mean too much to the rest of us (just like the Xbox Ambassador program, it's just a way for the company to connect directly with their community), but everybody's got to have their thing, and this is yours. Rock on for that.

JoystiqEA Sports honors 'Game Changers' in its online communities originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Feb 2010 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anton-bawardscommunityea-sportsgame-changersmaddennflprogramrecognitionreleasestiger-woodsxbox-ambassadorWed, 17 Feb 2010 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Madden NFL Arcade coming to XBLA & PSN; $15 this Dec.]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/14/madden-nfl-arcade-coming-to-xbla-and-psn-15-this-december/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/14/madden-nfl-arcade-coming-to-xbla-and-psn-15-this-december/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/14/madden-nfl-arcade-coming-to-xbla-and-psn-15-this-december/#comments
Click for more highlights!
Dear Download-only Record Holder,

You had a good run -- time to move over. Madden NFL Arcade is coming to town. EA has detailed, priced and dated its bite-sized Madden for Xbox Live Arcade and PlayStation Network. Targeted for the holiday season, Madden Arcade is described as fast-paced, 5-on-5 football. It's a classic backyard scenario -- first to 30; 4 plays per possession; no penalties; no field goals -- draped in NFL glamour.

Following in the tradition of its arcade-football predecessors (NFL Blitz, NFL Street, etc.) and EA's 3-on-3 NHL Arcade, Madden Arcade will feature a 'toonish art style, downsized playing field (60 yards) and 13 "Game Changers" (power-ups), including the ability to freeze your opponents, turn off their passing icons, or enlist an army of lineman to pretty much guarantee a sack. Each match is customizable, too, by altering skill level, points to win and other options, and supports up to 4-player co-op on a single console or 1-vs-1 online.

Madden NFL Arcade will be released this December on XBLA (1200) and PSN ($14.99). And shortly thereafter, the game is the odds on favorite to become the best-selling download-only title ever. How's the saying go: Don't hate the player? Hate the ...

Gallery: Madden NFL Arcade

JoystiqMadden NFL Arcade coming to XBLA & PSN; $15 this Dec. originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Oct 2009 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-sportsea-tiburonElectronic-Artsfootballgame-changersmaddenmadden-nfl-arcadeMicrosoftnflpricingpsnrelease-datexblaXbox-360Wed, 14 Oct 2009 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[NFL jerseys hit Avatar Marketplace, wallets ]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/08/nfl-jerseys-hit-avatar-marketplace-wallets/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/08/nfl-jerseys-hit-avatar-marketplace-wallets/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/08/nfl-jerseys-hit-avatar-marketplace-wallets/#comments Is everybody ready for some pricey Avatar football jerseys? Microsoft hopes you are, having launched men's and women's tops for all 32 NFL teams at 320 ($4) a pop on the Avatar Marketplace.

Just for comparison, national soccer (or football for most of the world) jerseys are ... oh, that's right, they're free. Most licensed game shirts sell for 80 ($1). We can only imagine the extra $3 in this case gets divided up between the NFL, the teams, EA and the Coalition for Expensive Avatar Clothing. It wouldn't be quite so bad if purchasers could actually pick their jersey number, instead of feeling like a total zero.

JoystiqNFL jerseys hit Avatar Marketplace, wallets originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Oct 2009 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avataravatar-clothingavatar-marketplacemicrosoftnflxblmxbox-liveThu, 08 Oct 2009 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Madden curse strikes back, Polamalu suffers knee injury in season opener]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/11/madden-curse-strikes-back-polamalu-suffers-knee-injury-in-seaso/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/11/madden-curse-strikes-back-polamalu-suffers-knee-injury-in-seaso/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/11/madden-curse-strikes-back-polamalu-suffers-knee-injury-in-seaso/#comments
Steelers fans witnessed a horrifying scene during last night's season-opening matchup against the Tennessee Titans -- while trying to recover a blocked field goal in the first half, Steelers safety Troy Polamalu sustained an injury to his left knee, preventing him from playing out the rest of the game. If that name sounds familiar, it's because Polamalu was featured on the cover of Madden 10 -- a promotion that has proven to be troubling for NFL players due to the titular "Madden curse."

Polamalu is expected to be out for 3 - 6 weeks, making this one of the least severe examples of cosmic retribution dished out by the curse to date. However, that could just be because said retribution has to be shared between two players this year. For the sake of our fantasy football standings, we urge Larry Fitzgerald to take every safety precaution imaginable during these trying times.

JoystiqMadden curse strikes back, Polamalu suffers knee injury in season opener originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 Sep 2009 13:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>curseeaea-sportsElectronic-Artsfootballinjurylarry-fitzgeraldmadden-10madden-cursenflpalomalutroy-palomaluFri, 11 Sep 2009 13:20:00 EST<![CDATA[EA looking to add Michael Vick to Madden 10 on August 19]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/14/ea-looking-to-add-michael-vick-to-madden-10-on-august-19/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/14/ea-looking-to-add-michael-vick-to-madden-10-on-august-19/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/14/ea-looking-to-add-michael-vick-to-madden-10-on-august-19/#comments
Earlier today, Kotaku reported everyone's favorite animal lover (sarcasm, ahoy!) could make his way into Madden 10 via an update. See, yesterday he signed with the Philadelphia Eagles, cementing his return to the NFL. But, since Madden 10 already shipped, many wondered if he would even be in the game.

Enter: Rob Semsey, EA's resident dude to pass all Madden questions to, who told Kotaku that EA was trying to get him into the game and promised "an announcement in the near future." But, see, here at Joystiq, that doesn't cut the mustard, so we grilled Semsey for something more. He had this to say: "Michael Vick will be added to the Philadelphia Eagles roster in the next Madden NFL 10 roster update, pending NFLPA and NFL approvals. The next roster update will go live approximately on August 19th for Xbox 360 and PS3, with additional platforms to follow shortly thereafter." So, yes, he'll even make his way to the Wii game and, in all likelihood, we could all see Vick sporting some green as early as this Wednesday.

JoystiqEA looking to add Michael Vick to Madden 10 on August 19 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 Aug 2009 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>michael-vickMicrosoftnflnflpaNintendophildelphia-eaglesWiiXbox-360Fri, 14 Aug 2009 17:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Economist: EA overcharged Madden buyers up to $926 million]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/15/economist-ea-overcharged-madden-buyers-up-to-926-million/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/15/economist-ea-overcharged-madden-buyers-up-to-926-million/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/15/economist-ea-overcharged-madden-buyers-up-to-926-million/#comments
Most sports game fans are none too happy about EA's monopolization of the NFL -- but only because of the limited choice of official football games they're afforded. A little over a month ago, two game enthusiasts, Geoffrey Pecover and Jeffrey Lawrence, filed a class-action suit against EA -- not due to the loss of fun that resulted following the eradication of the competing NFL 2K franchise, but rather, due to the loss of funds.

The two men called University of Michigan economics professor Dr. Jeffrey MacKie-Mason (for those keeping count, that's three Jeffs in this story so far) as a witness in the case. His findings, which he admits are based on incomplete data, are shocking -- he claims that with no direct competitor, EA was able to raise the price on the Madden series. By his estimate, EA effectively overcharged the game's purchasers between $701 million and $926 million from 2006 to 2009.

Wedbush analyst and Joystiq celebrity Michael Pachter responded to the estimate with vitriol, claiming that the professor had based his claims on faulty figures -- for instance, EA only made about $800 million off the Madden franchise during that period, and the series' average price only increased by a few cents after the NFL 2K series bit the dust. Thanks for the clarification, Pachy -- but we could have guessed the estimates were bunko. A billion dollars is a difficult thing to take from a group with such a keen eye for acts of corporate Ledgermain.

JoystiqEconomist: EA overcharged Madden buyers up to $926 million originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Jul 2009 13:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gameseaElectronic-Artslawsuitmaddenmonopolynflnfl-2kWed, 15 Jul 2009 13:05:00 EST<![CDATA[EA denies NFL lawsuit rumors]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/25/ea-denies-nfl-lawsuit-rumors/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/25/ea-denies-nfl-lawsuit-rumors/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/25/ea-denies-nfl-lawsuit-rumors/#comments
Responding to questions regarding allegations made by retired NFL player Bernie Parrish, perennial Madden publisher, EA, told GamesIndustry.biz that it is, "Not aware of any legal action." Parrish wrote an open letter recently to the 2,062 retired NFLers who won $28 million in a lawsuit with the NFL last January, asking that they each put $1,000 of their stake from the last victory into a "litigation War Chest."

Considering the tenacity of the folks involved (the $28 million was won in appeals court, mind you), we think it may be worth pointing out that they may just not be organized yet -- after all, the statements made by Parrish were published just over one week ago. Either way, EA seems to contest the allegations, stating, "This is a dispute between the retired players and their union." Another lawsuit it is then!

JoystiqEA denies NFL lawsuit rumors originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 25 Apr 2009 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bernie-parrisheaea-sportsElectronic-Artsgamesindustry.bizjohn-maddenlawsuitmaddenmadden-10nflSat, 25 Apr 2009 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Madden 10 cover to curse two athletes: Larry Fitzgerald and Troy Polamalu]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/24/madden-10-cover-to-curse-two-athletes-larry-fitzgerald-and-troy/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/24/madden-10-cover-to-curse-two-athletes-larry-fitzgerald-and-troy/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/24/madden-10-cover-to-curse-two-athletes-larry-fitzgerald-and-troy/#comments
Click to see the full cover.
 EA continues reinventing the Madden cover. This year's cover features not one, but two players, in a stylized cover that's reminiscent of Street Fighter IV. The Cardinals' wide receiver, Larry Fitzgerald, and the Steelers' safety, Troy Polamalu, will share the spotlight on EA Sports' annual NFL game when it goes on sale on August 14th. The two teams should be familiar to anyone who watched last year's Super Bowl -- y'know, people that play Madden.

In addition to debuting the cover athlete, EA Sports released more screenshots, which you can peruse in our gallery.

Gallery: Madden 10

Continue reading Madden 10 cover to curse two athletes: Larry Fitzgerald and Troy Polamalu

JoystiqMadden 10 cover to curse two athletes: Larry Fitzgerald and Troy Polamalu originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Apr 2009 10:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cardinalsfootballlarry-fitzgeraldmaddenmadden-10MicrosoftnflNintendosteelerstroy-polamaluWiiXbox-360Fri, 24 Apr 2009 10:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Retired NFL players planning to sue EA and Madden for royalties]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/19/report-retired-nfl-players-planning-to-sue-ea-and-madden-for-ro/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/19/report-retired-nfl-players-planning-to-sue-ea-and-madden-for-ro/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/19/report-retired-nfl-players-planning-to-sue-ea-and-madden-for-ro/#comments
A story on GamePolitics recently pointed our attention to the blog of NFL retiree Dave Pear, where fellow former football player Bernie Parrish announced that a number of retired NFL players are planning to sue Electronic Arts and John Madden for using their likenesses in a number of Madden titles without paying them any royalties.

If this story sounds familiar, it's because the same group of 2,062 retirees filed a similar suit against the NFL Players Association last fall, ultimately receiving $28 million in damages. Parrish is asking each of the players involved in last year's lawsuit to put $1,000 of their respective settlements into a "litigation War Chest" with which to seek legal action against the publishing juggernaut and the recently retired commentator, who reportedly "collected over $100,000,000 in royalties while paying the retired NFL players used in those games absolutely nothing."

JoystiqReport: Retired NFL players planning to sue EA and Madden for royalties originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 19 Apr 2009 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-sportselectronic-artsfootballjohn-maddenlawsuitmaddennflnflparetireesroyaltiesSun, 19 Apr 2009 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Madden NFL 10 tackles retail on August 14th]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/31/madden-nfl-10-tackles-retail-on-august-14th/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/31/madden-nfl-10-tackles-retail-on-august-14th/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/31/madden-nfl-10-tackles-retail-on-august-14th/#comments
It's another year, it's another Madden. The best only NFL game in town will make its return this year on August 14th, promising "all-new animation technology." The Madden line follows EA's newfound love for Nintendo, as the Wii version gets special attention this year with a "unique, genre-defining art style" that "epitomizes what fun looks like on the Wii." Cel-shaded Madden, perhaps?

We don't know much more about this year's iteration of the Madden series, except for details garnered from the game's only screenshot. The infamous cover athlete is also currently unknown and will be revealed later this year on April 24th.

Madden NFL10 will be available on Xbox 360, PS2, PS3, PSP and Wii. Update: Big Download has confirmed that no PC version is in the works. "We have no plans to release Madden NFL 10 on the PC this year."

JoystiqMadden NFL 10 tackles retail on August 14th originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 31 Mar 2009 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-sportsElectronic-Artsfootballmaddenmadden-10madden-nfl-10MicrosoftnflNintendoWiiXbox-360Tue, 31 Mar 2009 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EA dished out $35 million to NFL Players' Union in 2007]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/04/ea-dished-out-35-million-to-nfl-players-union-in-2007/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/04/ea-dished-out-35-million-to-nfl-players-union-in-2007/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/04/ea-dished-out-35-million-to-nfl-players-union-in-2007/#comments
With the drama surrounding EA and the NFLPA right now, all kinds of dirty laundry is being pulled out from the bottom of the pile and paraded to one and all. Enter former Oakland Raiders defensive tackle Dave Pear, who has posted the NFLPA's 2007 LM-2, a report required by the U.S. Department of Labor that lists the money EA payed out to the NFLPA.

It's best to keep in mind that this figure is for the NFL Players' Association alone, and does not include money EA had to shell out to the league for licensing stadiums, team names, logos, uniforms, etc. If we were to see how much EA paid the league for those things, it would probably be much larger than the $35 million the NFLPA received.

[Via GamePolitics]

JoystiqEA dished out $35 million to NFL Players' Union in 2007 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Feb 2009 23:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dave-peareaElectronic-Artslawsuitlm-2maddennflnflpanflpa-lm-2players-associationsportsWed, 04 Feb 2009 23:28:00 EST<![CDATA[NFL to pay $28 million to retired players in Madden royalty dispute]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/29/nfl-must-pay-28-million-to-retired-players-in-madden-royalty-di/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/29/nfl-must-pay-28-million-to-retired-players-in-madden-royalty-di/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/29/nfl-must-pay-28-million-to-retired-players-in-madden-royalty-di/#commentsHere's the deal: John Elway is relaxing at home, enjoying a cold glass of iced tea, perhaps watching clips of his glory days. His son Jack comes into the room and asks if he can play his Madden football game, because the Elways only have one huge TV for the whole family to share. John allows it, anxious to check out what his child is into these days, and little Jack loads up the game and picks an all-star team, with his daddy as Quarterback. John Elway sees himself in the game, but doesn't remember getting a royalties check and flips out. Well, John, no need to worry. You're going to get yourself some money now.

2,062 former NFL players filed a lawsuit over royalties for in-game likenesses recently, and Judge William Alsup upheld a jury's decision to pay these players upwards of $28 million after an appeal had been filed. This money will be coming directly from the NFL Players' Association, which violated the terms of group licensing agreements. With the NFL being worth quite a bit, it may seem like a drop in the bucket, but we're talking about a significant chunk of change here.

See also: LGJ: Mo' Madden Madness

[Via GI.biz]

JoystiqNFL to pay $28 million to retired players in Madden royalty dispute originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Jan 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lawsuitmaddennflnflpaplayers-associationsportsThu, 29 Jan 2009 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Madden 09 predicts Pittsburgh Steelers victory in Super Bowl XLIII]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/23/madden-09-predicts-pittsburgh-steelers-victory-in-super-bowl-xli/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/23/madden-09-predicts-pittsburgh-steelers-victory-in-super-bowl-xli/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/23/madden-09-predicts-pittsburgh-steelers-victory-in-super-bowl-xli/#commentsFiled under: ,

The Super Bowl is only a few days away, and as expected, EA has run a Super Bowl simulation using this year's Madden. This year, the publisher expects the Pittsburgh Steelers to achieve a narrow victory over the Arizona Cardinals, with a final score of 28-24.

The annual Madden prediction has been fairly successful, with the exception of last year's surprise victory from the New York Giants:
  • 2004 - Madden: Patriots ; Reality: Patriots
  • 2005 - Madden: Patriots ; Reality: Patriots
  • 2006 - Madden: Steelers ; Reality: Steelers
  • 2007 - Madden: Colts ; Reality: Colts
  • 2008 - Madden: Patriots ; Reality: Giants
Super Bowl XLIII kicks off February 1st, when the NY Giants will somehow manage to pull off an even more startling victory this year. Go NY!

JoystiqMadden 09 predicts Pittsburgh Steelers victory in Super Bowl XLIII originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 Jan 2009 15:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cardinalsmaddenmadden-09nflsteelerssuper-bowlsuper-bowl-xliiiFri, 23 Jan 2009 15:22:00 EST<![CDATA[NFL retirees awarded $28m in Madden suit, appeal pending]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/11/nfl-retirees-awarded-28m-in-madden-suit-appeal-pending/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/11/nfl-retirees-awarded-28m-in-madden-suit-appeal-pending/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/11/nfl-retirees-awarded-28m-in-madden-suit-appeal-pending/#commentsFiled under: ,

herbie abberlay
Score one for the old guys! A U.S. District Court jury in San Francisco has ruled in favor of a group of retired NFL players who filed a class-action lawsuit against the National Football League Players Association for the underhanded use of their likenesses in various Madden games. Basically, the guys were owed some dues, and the jury set the outstanding tab at $28 million ... or, split 2,062 ways, $13,000 per former player. Not surprisingly, the defense called the ruling "unjust as a matter of law" and will no doubt appeal the decision, despite some pretty scummy emails penned by NFLPA execs out on the evidence table; look no further than: "their identity must be altered so that it cannot be recognized" [NFLPA exec LaShun Lawson to Madden producer Jeremy Strauser].

A joyful and teary-eyed Herb Adderley told the L.A. Times, "If you look at the 1967 Green Bay Packers in [Madden], you'll know that the only left cornerback that year had to be Herb Adderley, but they scrambled my face and took the number off of my jersey. Yet, they had my correct height, weight and years of experience."

JoystiqNFL retirees awarded $28m in Madden suit, appeal pending originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Nov 2008 13:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>herb-adderleylawsuitlegalmaddennflnflpaTue, 11 Nov 2008 13:54:00 EST<![CDATA[LGJ: Mo' Madden madness]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/03/law-of-the-game-on-joystiq-mo-madden-madness/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/03/law-of-the-game-on-joystiq-mo-madden-madness/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/03/law-of-the-game-on-joystiq-mo-madden-madness/#commentsFiled under:

Each week Mark Methenitis contributes Law of the Game on Joystiq ("LGJ"), a column on legal issues as they relate to video games:


New developments in the Madden franchise's ongoing legal troubles have provided a unique opportunity to talk about the so-called "right of publicity" that has become an issue with retired NFL players. As reported by GamePolitics, there are allegedly documents showing that EA altered aspects of Madden to keep from having to pay the NFL Player's Association (NFLPA), which kept the NFLPA from having to pay all of the former NFL players that appear in the game. The lawsuit is by the players toward the NFLPA to recover royalties for the use of their likenesses. The idea that EA would have to pay the NFLPA and the NFLPA would have to pay the players for the use of retired players likenesses rests in the "right of publicity."

The right of publicity is rooted in the concept of privacy, and has evolved in part from the ideas of libel, slander, and "passing off," which is often associated with a trademark-like protection. The basic concept is that you alone have the right to profit from the use of your likeness, which may include your name, physical appearance, voice, personality or other defining characteristics. So, if Nintendo wanted to make "Super Mark-io Brothers" with me as the main character, then they would have to pay me royalties. But it gets a lot deeper than that.

Continue reading LGJ: Mo' Madden madness

JoystiqLGJ: Mo' Madden madness originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Oct 2008 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>columnseaElectronic-Artslawlaw-of-the-gamelawsuitmaddennflFri, 03 Oct 2008 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[NPD: Top 5 best-selling PS3 games from January to August 08]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/23/npd-top-5-best-selling-ps3-games-from-january-to-august-08/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/23/npd-top-5-best-selling-ps3-games-from-january-to-august-08/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/23/npd-top-5-best-selling-ps3-games-from-january-to-august-08/#commentsFiled under:


The NPD, in collaboration with Gamasutra, disclosed the top 5 bestsellers for each platform today, including the PS3. Without further ado, let's take a look at what they are:
  1. Grand Theft Auto IV
  2. Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots
  3. Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare
  4. Madden NFL 09
  5. Gran Turismo 5: Prologue
Note that specific sales numbers were not provided and the final tally does not include any collector's editions, games sold via digital distribution or games bundled with a system.

No one is really surprised that GTA IV, MGS4 and Madden 09 made it to the top of the charts. However, Gamasutra remarks on the tremendous momentum Call of Duty 4 has had so far in 2008, especially considering the game was released early November of 2007. They were also surprised to see Gran Turismo 5: Prologue beating out Devil May Cry 4; they even speculate that if the sales on the PS Store for Gran Turismo 5: Prologue were counted, it might have even trumped the sales of the PS3 version of Madden 09. Did any of these games surprise you guys? Is there a game you would have liked to see on the chart? Fire away in the comments below.

JoystiqNPD: Top 5 best-selling PS3 games from January to August 08 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Sep 2008 17:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>call-of-dutycall-of-duty-4cod-4grand-theft-auto-4grand-theft-auto-ivgta-ivgta4gtaivmadden-09madden09metal-gear-solidmetal-gear-solid-4mgs4nflnfl-09nfl09npdnpd-groupTue, 23 Sep 2008 17:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview: Madden NFL 09 All-Play]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/13/metareview-madden-nfl-09-all-play/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/13/metareview-madden-nfl-09-all-play/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/13/metareview-madden-nfl-09-all-play/#commentsFiled under:


This year's Madden NFL 09 All-Play on the Wii has gotten a lot of buzz. The title has tried to cater to the Wii's casual crowd. Yet, it also attempts to keep its hardcore audience and not alienate them with all kinds of casual additions. It's a tough line to toe. Has EA Sports done it?

On to the review scores!
  • Nintendo Power (90/100) is of the mind the game is the sports title to beat on Wii: "So while EA may not have lived up to its marketing directive, it's succeeded in creating quite possibly the best, most fully featured sports sim available on the Wii." [Sept 2008, p.85]
  • IGN (86/100) says it's good, but hardcore gamers might not like some of the changes: "Madden 09 has done a great job of giving every type of player a little to love, but for the Wii-only hardcore out there, you're going to need to realize that times are changing, and Nintendo is synonymous with "everybody" now"
  • GameDaily (80/100) thinks the game is easily recommendable: "Even though it lacks complexity, Madden NFL 09 on the Wii achieves more than enough to earn a recommendation. Its user-friendly controls and various modes will keep you scoring touchdowns well into next season."
  • Games Radar (80/100) believes the game is a solid title: "Even so, Madden NFL 09 All Play is blazing an important trail to reintroduce lost football fans to the franchise. It's an undeniably fun experience that will please many in its target audience, and even includes roster updates and online play. Not to mention we're really starting to like a little waggle with our football. We may be old curmudgeons, but fun is fun, and Madden does a lot more right than not."

JoystiqMetareview: Madden NFL 09 All-Play originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 Aug 2008 15:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-playeaea-sportsfootballmaddenmadden-09madden-nfl-09-all-playnflWed, 13 Aug 2008 15:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq goes to Maddenpalooza]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/12/joystiq-goes-to-maddenpalooza/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/12/joystiq-goes-to-maddenpalooza/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/12/joystiq-goes-to-maddenpalooza/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


The Rose Bowl was Madden-ified yesterday to make way for the 20th anniversary of Madden games, as well as the new Madden NFL 09 game that went on sale at midnight last night... or 9 PM Pacific if you were lucky enough to be in the stadium in Pasadena. The upper deck was wrapped in gigantic Madden sail cloths promoting the game and featuring poster boy Brett Favre in his Packers gear. The playing turf featured autograph sessions with NFL legends, skill games, free Pepsi schwag (which we forgot to photograph, whoops), a Slurpee booth complete with Hooters-esque booth babes, a mini Wal-Mart store, and a giant gaming tent full of tons of Xbox 360s, and a scant few Wiis, PS3s, and PSPs.

Read on, dear gamer, to discover the rest, including a confab between rapper Busta Rhymes and EA's Peter Moore. Plus you can click on the gallery below for loads of photos.

Gallery: Maddenpalooza

Continue reading Joystiq goes to Maddenpalooza

JoystiqJoystiq goes to Maddenpalooza originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Aug 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Busta-RhymesEAEA-SportsElectronic-ArtsFootballMaddenMadden-09Madden-NFL-09MaddenpaloozaNFLPeter-MoorePS3PSPWiiXbox-360Tue, 12 Aug 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo Channel video updates take a look at Madden NFL 09]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/04/nintendo-channel-video-updates-take-a-look-at-madden-nfl-09/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/04/nintendo-channel-video-updates-take-a-look-at-madden-nfl-09/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/04/nintendo-channel-video-updates-take-a-look-at-madden-nfl-09/#commentsFiled under: , ,


We're excited about Madden NFL 09. Oh no, sports on a game blog, run! But, in all seriousness, this year's Madden NFL 09 looks like it's going to be a solid title and unique from the other versions available. Plus, the All-Play stuff looks fun. If the video up top tickles your fancy, then the one past the break is going to blow you away.

Also, check out the latest video updates to the Nintendo Channel tucked away back there as well.

Continue reading Nintendo Channel video updates take a look at Madden NFL 09

JoystiqNintendo Channel video updates take a look at Madden NFL 09 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Aug 2008 19:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>footballmaddenmadden-09madden-nfl-09mario-kart-wiinflnfl-footballnintendo-channelstrong-badupdatevideowild-west-gunsMon, 04 Aug 2008 19:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Get the 'free' Madden Xbox 360 demo for only $5.97]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/01/get-the-free-madden-xbox-360-demo-for-only-5-97/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/01/get-the-free-madden-xbox-360-demo-for-only-5-97/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/01/get-the-free-madden-xbox-360-demo-for-only-5-97/#commentsFiled under: , ,


We walked into 7-11 today while representatives were setting up the massive marketing onslaught of Madden NFL 09, and it's a full blitz. There are standees, posters, chip racks, Big Gulp plastic collectible cups, and even Madden sandwiches. That's right, Madden sandwiches. Boom. We feel as confused as the digital Terrell Owens in that photo.

As a "special deal" they're offering a FREE Xbox 360 Madden NFL 09 demo... if you purchase a "Madden Sub" ($3.59 for a turkey and cheddar sub, with maybe half a leaflet of lettuce on it), a .99 bag of Doritos (your choice of scent/flavor!) and any "Gulp" or larger drink. We didn't even know there were just plain old "Gulps."

Find out what kind of idiot buys something you can get online at home free, after the break.

Continue reading Get the 'free' Madden Xbox 360 demo for only $5.97

JoystiqGet the 'free' Madden Xbox 360 demo for only $5.97 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Aug 2008 22:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>09DemoElectronic-ArtsFootballMaddenMadden-NFL-09NFLSportsXbox-360Fri, 01 Aug 2008 22:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Blitz: The League II E3 screens]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/14/blitz-the-league-ii-e3-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/14/blitz-the-league-ii-e3-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/14/blitz-the-league-ii-e3-screens/#comments
Click for high-resolution image. Midway announced Blitz: The League II last week. Now we've got some bone-crackingly new screens to show you from E3. Ouch, doesn't that look like it's going to hurt? Check out the rest of the gallery for some more hard-hitting football.

JoystiqBlitz: The League II E3 screens originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Jul 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blitzblitz-the-league-2nflMon, 14 Jul 2008 17:30:00 EST