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[Here's what the 'new' New Xbox Experience looks like]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/06/heres-what-the-new-new-xbox-experience-looks-like/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/06/heres-what-the-new-new-xbox-experience-looks-like/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/06/heres-what-the-new-new-xbox-experience-looks-like/#comments Anxious to see how your Xbox 360's UI will transform this fall? We've got some new images for you to flip through -- you can't gesture through our gallery, but you can click through. That's kinda the same thing, right? Right?

Gallery: New Xbox Experience (2011)

JoystiqHere's what the 'new' New Xbox Experience looks like originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 Jun 2011 16:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2011microsoftMicrosoft-Game-Studiosnew-new-new-xbox-experiencenew-new-xbox-experiencenew-xbox-experiencenewer-new-xbox-experiencexboxMon, 06 Jun 2011 16:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 Dashboard update 'preview' open for signups]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/14/xbox-360-dashboard-update-preview-open-for-signups/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/14/xbox-360-dashboard-update-preview-open-for-signups/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/14/xbox-360-dashboard-update-preview-open-for-signups/#comments As it has done in the past, Microsoft is offering early access to its next Xbox 360 Dashboard update (which integrates Twitter, Facebook, Last.fm and Zune Marketplace) to those who sign up -- and are then selected -- to preview it. Major Nelson has just updated his blog with word that the signup process has begun for the program, mentioning that Microsoft is looking for "multiple thousands" of users to test out the update. So, sounds like chances of getting in are good.

Those wishing to put their names in the hat for preview access can do so by hitting the Microsoft Connect site and filling out a survey. The preview program is being offered in all territories where Xbox Live is available, but keep in mind you'll need a Windows Live ID in order to apply. The Major says those who've been picked will receive an email in about a week; after which the update will be pushed out to their consoles, and they can start bragging about their early access via Twitter and Facebook right from their 360s.

If past Dashboard preview programs are anything to go by, everyone who signs up will eventually gain access just prior to the update's release -- which may happen on November 17.

Gallery: Facebook / Twitter on Xbox 360

JoystiqXbox 360 Dashboard update 'preview' open for signups originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Oct 2009 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betadashboarddashboard-updatedashboard-update-fall-2009facebooklast.fmmicrosoftnew-xbox-experiencenxenxe-previewtwitterXbox-360zunezune-marketplaceWed, 14 Oct 2009 18:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Avatars go professional, get business gear]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/31/avatars-go-professional-get-business-gear/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/31/avatars-go-professional-get-business-gear/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/31/avatars-go-professional-get-business-gear/#comments
Brand new Avatar threads are now available for your virtual-selves. This week's additions include business clothes for men and women ... just in case your Avatar was planning on attending a job interview or something. One thing to note before you dress up for that next online date, change your shoes. Business suits and sneakers don't work.

Male Business Attire
  • Blue Formal Shirt
  • Moleskin Pants
  • Waistcoat and Shirt
  • Suit and Tie (pictured)
Female Business Attire
  • Pencil Skirt
  • Slacks
  • Pinstripe Blazer
  • Twin Set

JoystiqAvatars go professional, get business gear originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 31 Mar 2009 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatarsnew-xbox-experiencenxexbox-360xbox-liveTue, 31 Mar 2009 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq survey: Xbox 360 E74 errors on the rise since NXE [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/19/joystiq-survey-xbox-360-e74-errors-on-the-rise-since-nxe/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/19/joystiq-survey-xbox-360-e74-errors-on-the-rise-since-nxe/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/19/joystiq-survey-xbox-360-e74-errors-on-the-rise-since-nxe/#comments
When we recently posted about the Xbox 360's E74 error and asked for your input, we weren't prepared for the staggering response we'd receive. Within a few hours, we had dozens of emails from readers like you who had experienced this particular hardware failure (typically caused, according to unofficial web reports, by a loose scaling chip). It was surprising to touch such a nerve, but what really knocked us for a loop was what we found when we started compiling the data sent to us.

Continue reading Joystiq survey: Xbox 360 E74 errors on the rise since NXE [update]

JoystiqJoystiq survey: Xbox 360 E74 errors on the rise since NXE [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Mar 2009 14:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e74microsoftnew-xbox-experiencenxered-ring-of-deathrrodxbox-360xbox-360-errorsxbox-supportThu, 19 Mar 2009 14:40:00 EST<![CDATA[New western Avatar clothing for the cowboy in us all]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/10/new-western-avatar-clothing-for-the-cowboy-in-us-all/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/10/new-western-avatar-clothing-for-the-cowboy-in-us-all/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/10/new-western-avatar-clothing-for-the-cowboy-in-us-all/#commentsBrand new Avatar apparel is available via the Xbox 360's Avatar customizer and, this week, it's all about the western flavor. The new western-wear is supposedly inspired by this week's South by Southwest celebration, but we think the design team just wanted to see what a female Avatar looked like in a knee high denim dress. Well ... now we know.

For the Cowboys
  • Black Cowboy Hat
  • Rodeo Jeans
  • Black Trench Coat
  • Western Duster
  • Cowboy Boots
For the Cowgirls
  • Cowgirl Shirt
  • Rhinestone Cowgirl Hat
  • Denim Skirt
  • Dungarees
  • Cowgirl Boots

JoystiqNew western Avatar clothing for the cowboy in us all originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Mar 2009 21:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avataravatarsnew-xbox-experiencenxexbox-360xbox-liveTue, 10 Mar 2009 21:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Confirmed: NXE update on Xbox 360 game discs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/04/confirmed-nxe-update-on-xbox-360-game-discs/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/04/confirmed-nxe-update-on-xbox-360-game-discs/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/04/confirmed-nxe-update-on-xbox-360-game-discs/#comments
There was a rumor floating around today about NXE shipping on Xbox 360 game discs (via MCV) and, as you can imagine, we were surprised. So we put in a question to Microsoft's Larry "Major Nelson" Hryb, who confirmed that Microsoft has begun including NXE with Xbox 360 games.

As to whether Tom Clancy's HAWX and 2K Sports' MLB2K9 will be the first games to feature the NXE update -- as the rumor suggested -- Major Nelson could not confirm. But, from here on out, expect the update to be included on all retail game discs.

JoystiqConfirmed: NXE update on Xbox 360 game discs originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Mar 2009 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-sportshawxMicrosoftmlb-2k9mlb2k9new-xbox-experiencenxerumorrumorstom-clancys-hawxubisoftXbox-360Wed, 04 Mar 2009 16:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Just in time for Valentine's, Avatars receive formal attire]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/11/just-in-time-for-valentines-avatars-receive-formal-attire/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/11/just-in-time-for-valentines-avatars-receive-formal-attire/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/11/just-in-time-for-valentines-avatars-receive-formal-attire/#commentsCheck your Avatar closet, because freshly pressed clothing has just magically been added. Spiffy new (and free) formal wear, in fact. Male Avatars now have the option to wear a black formal suit and blue dress-shirt combo. Female Avatars have the option to sport a sexy (can we refer to Avatars as sexy?) red dress. We're also told that the new duds are perfect for this weekend's special holiday. That is, if you express your romantic feelings over Xbox Live.

JoystiqJust in time for Valentine's, Avatars receive formal attire originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Feb 2009 00:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avataravatarsnew-xbox-experiencenxexbox-liveWed, 11 Feb 2009 00:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Rare: Unlockable Avatar duds coming 'in time']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/07/rare-unlockable-avatar-duds-coming-in-time/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/07/rare-unlockable-avatar-duds-coming-in-time/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/07/rare-unlockable-avatar-duds-coming-in-time/#commentsWell aware that most all Avatar supporters, and non-supporters alike, demand clothing individuality, Rare art lead Lee Musgrave and producer Stacey Law recently hinted to VG247 that fashionable Avatar apparel may be treated like unlockable achievements ... sometime in the future.

"Games will be able to give away clothes and accessories just like Achievements," Musgrave admitted, being sure to vaguely note that such a feature would come "in time." As far as corralling developers' interest, Law is optimistic, making mention that their team is "currently working with multiple partners who have expressed interest in using Avatars."

It's either unlockable Avatar apparel, being able to change clothing colors or allowing us to put our Vision camera creativity to good use. Those are your options, Microsoft. Your call.

JoystiqRare: Unlockable Avatar duds coming 'in time' originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 07 Feb 2009 07:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatarsnew-xbox-experiencenxerareSat, 07 Feb 2009 07:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Reminder: 360 memory upgrade program ends Saturday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/29/reminder-360-memory-upgrade-program-ends-saturday/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/29/reminder-360-memory-upgrade-program-ends-saturday/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/29/reminder-360-memory-upgrade-program-ends-saturday/#comments
Last call for those Xbox 360 Arcade console owners who are looking to take advantage of Microsoft's NXE storage solution offer. The program -- which was setup to get Arcade console owners storage to install the NXE -- ends this Saturday, January 31st when Microsoft will pull the plug on the website. To receive either your free 512MB memory card or to take advantage of their 20GB HDD deal, simply head over to the official memory request website, enter your console information and review what storage solution offers you receive. There is no time for procrastination, so get to it!

[Thanks, Beagles]

JoystiqReminder: 360 memory upgrade program ends Saturday originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Jan 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hard-drivehddmicrosoftnew-xbox-experiencenxeupdateThu, 29 Jan 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Preview premium NXE themes before you buy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/28/preview-premium-nxe-themes-before-you-buy/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/28/preview-premium-nxe-themes-before-you-buy/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/28/preview-premium-nxe-themes-before-you-buy/#commentsFiled under:


Like a Phoenix rising from the ashes of the long defunct Dashboard Themes website, comes a new site that has the simple goal of giving XBLM consumers a chance to preview premium dashboard themes. NXE Themes has screenshots of the entire catalog of premium dash skins, including all free and paid content. It's quite the nice community service NXE Themes is offering, seeing that a premium download can cost upwards of 250 Microsoft points.

The only negative we can find with the site is the amount of bandwidth that is required. Dial-up users stay far, far away.

[Thanks, NBA Kirkland]

JoystiqPreview premium NXE themes before you buy originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Jan 2009 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dashboard-themesmicrosoftnew-xbox-experiencenxethemesxbox-360Wed, 28 Jan 2009 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Pachter: Xbox 360 a 'gold mine' for Netflix growth]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/27/pachter-xbox-360-a-gold-mine-for-netflix-growth/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/27/pachter-xbox-360-a-gold-mine-for-netflix-growth/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/27/pachter-xbox-360-a-gold-mine-for-netflix-growth/#commentsFiled under:


All-knowing, all-powerful games industry analyst, Michael Pachter, sees the partnership between Microsoft and Netflix as a very good thing for the latter's bottom line. GameDaily quotes the silicon seer as calling Xbox Live a "proverbial gold mine" for Netflix.

How's that? Pachter estimates that roughly one million Xbox Live Gold members are also Netflix subscribers, and that 200,000 or so of them signed up for Netflix after the debut of the New Xbox Experience in late November, 2008. Pachter's posse of prognosticators at Wedbush Morgan Securities feel that the influx of 360 owners to the video rental service "will continue at super-normal levels for quite some time."

In fact, Pachter expects to see "as many as 1 million [XBL Gold members] join as Netflix members in the next year," and furthermore predicts 35% of those who buy a 360 in 2009 will also purchase a Gold membership, hence the proverbial gold mine. Note to Netflix: We suggest you nix any plans to add the Leprechaun films for Instant Queue viewing, lest you wish for the rapscallion to make off with said gold.

JoystiqPachter: Xbox 360 a 'gold mine' for Netflix growth originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 Jan 2009 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>michael-pachterMicrosoftnetflixnew-xbox-experienceXbox-360Tue, 27 Jan 2009 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Fresh Avatar apparel, more polos and pants]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/14/fresh-avatar-apparel-more-polos-and-pants/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/14/fresh-avatar-apparel-more-polos-and-pants/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/14/fresh-avatar-apparel-more-polos-and-pants/#commentsFiled under:


Today being an official Avatar Wardrobe Expanding Wednesday (patent pending), Microsoft has unleashed a bunch of new Avatar clothing selections. All of which can be accessed via the 360 dashboard's Avatar customizer.

The new apparel includes various jacket and polo combinations for male Avatars along with new bottoms and suspenders for dressing up. Female Avatars now have access to a Lavender polo, new shoes, and some trendy chinos. Check the break for a listing of all the new fashionable duds you can use to play Avatar dress-up.

Continue reading Fresh Avatar apparel, more polos and pants

JoystiqFresh Avatar apparel, more polos and pants originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Jan 2009 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avataravatarsnew-xbox-experiencenxex3f-twitterWed, 14 Jan 2009 08:45:00 EST<![CDATA[CES 09: MS solidifies Primetime's launch this Spring]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/07/ces-09-ms-solidifies-primetimes-launch-this-spring/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/07/ces-09-ms-solidifies-primetimes-launch-this-spring/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/07/ces-09-ms-solidifies-primetimes-launch-this-spring/#commentsFiled under:


More Xbox 360 news coming from CES, Microsoft has just announced that the long delayed New Xbox Experience feature Primetime will be releasing to the masses sometime this Spring. Microsoft's Robbie Bach demoed Primetime on stage, showing off Primetime's gameshow 1 vs. 100 all while showing what the experience will look and feel like. Primetime is the live, social and fully interactive Xbox Live channel that lets the community come together, play games and win prizes.

JoystiqCES 09: MS solidifies Primetime's launch this Spring originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Jan 2009 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>new-xbox-experiencenxeprimetimexbox-liveWed, 07 Jan 2009 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Queue the applause: Columbia Pictures films return to Netflix 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/06/queue-the-applause-columbia-pictures-films-return-to-netflix-36/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/06/queue-the-applause-columbia-pictures-films-return-to-netflix-36/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/06/queue-the-applause-columbia-pictures-films-return-to-netflix-36/#commentsFiled under:


Were you feeling super bad that Super Bad got yoinked from your Netflix Instant Queue mere hours after the launch of the NXE? Well, turn that frown upside-down, because it appears that the entirety of Columbia Pictures' streaming movie catalog is once again available to Xbox 360 owners.

Most of the catalog became accessible to Netflix 360 at the end of November, but site 360sync reports that everything is back as of today -- yes, even Super Bad. Of course, given the evidently squirrely nature of Netflix licensing, they could be gone again at a moment's notice. So, to ensure minimum trauma, "Watch Now" for real.

[Via X3F]

JoystiqQueue the applause: Columbia Pictures films return to Netflix 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Jan 2009 16:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>columbia-picturesnetflixnetflix-instant-queuenew-xbox-experienceXbox-360Tue, 06 Jan 2009 16:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Columbia movies back on Netflix instant view]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/06/columbia-movies-back-on-netflix-instant-view/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/06/columbia-movies-back-on-netflix-instant-view/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/06/columbia-movies-back-on-netflix-instant-view/#commentsFiled under:


Keen-eyed observers (or at least one keen-eyed observer, anyway) over at 360Sync have noticed that movies from Sony's Columbia Pictures are once again available for Netflix streaming on Xbox 360. After the titles were first yanked from the service in November, we later reported that most of the Columbia movies had returned, but it seems that now all of them are available once again. Just to be sure, we decided to see if our beloved Paprika had returned. Lo and behold, it has! Now go and add some movies to your queue! Do it because it's more fun than working.

JoystiqColumbia movies back on Netflix instant view originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Jan 2009 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>netflixnew-xbox-experiencenxeTue, 06 Jan 2009 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Possible future Avatar clothing options discovered]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/18/video-possible-future-avatar-clothing-options-discovered/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/18/video-possible-future-avatar-clothing-options-discovered/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/18/video-possible-future-avatar-clothing-options-discovered/#commentsFiled under:


The diligent folks over at Xbox Avatar Life have uncovered some YouTube videos of ... enterprising Xbox users that have discovered lots of currently unavailable clothing and accessory options for Avatars. All told, there are three videos covering the various hats, tops, shoes, pants, skirts, accessories and hairstyles for both male and female Avatars. Now, keep in mind that we have no idea when, or even if these options will ever be released, so don't get your hopes up about any particuar options. Actually, we're just going to disregard our own advice and say we can't wait for the puffy shirt. Check out all three videos after the break.

Continue reading Video: Possible future Avatar clothing options discovered

JoystiqVideo: Possible future Avatar clothing options discovered originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 18 Dec 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatarsnew-xbox-experiencenxeThu, 18 Dec 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dress your Avatar in new formal apparel]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/16/dress-your-avatar-in-new-formal-apparel/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/16/dress-your-avatar-in-new-formal-apparel/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/16/dress-your-avatar-in-new-formal-apparel/#commentsFiled under:

Freshly sewn for inclusion in the Avatar customizer closet is brand new clothing for your Avatar that's mostly made up of formal wear. Male and female Avatars now have the option of wearing two new hats, a new shirt and a few new tuxedo suits including the blue gem you see to the right. Spiffy, right?

All new threads are accessible via the Xbox 360 dashboard's Avatar customizer and are marked with a gold star for your convenience. Have fun playing dress up.

JoystiqDress your Avatar in new formal apparel originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 16 Dec 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatarsnew-xbox-experiencenxeTue, 16 Dec 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Snap pictures of your Avatars with the 'Free Your Avatar' tool]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/15/snap-pictures-of-your-avatars-with-the-free-your-avatar-tool/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/15/snap-pictures-of-your-avatars-with-the-free-your-avatar-tool/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/15/snap-pictures-of-your-avatars-with-the-free-your-avatar-tool/#commentsFiled under:


When we first discovered that all Xbox Live Avatars have a unique URL, we figrued that it wouldn't be long before Microsoft opened them up for use as, um, avatars in web applications like Facebook. It looks like that day is upon us, as Microsoft has opened a new section of Xbox.com entitled Free Your Avatar. The site allows Xbox Live users to pose their Avatars (or anyone's Avatar, so long as you know their Gamertag) in front of various backgrounds and cap things off with some text. The tool is fairly limited though. For example we would love some different poses -- the current post is just awful for one's posture -- and some more backgrounds. The ability to have more than one line of text would be nice too.

Microsoft is also running a contest in which lots of prizes -- like a 42" TV and an Xbox 360 Elite -- are being given away. The only requirement is uploading an Avatar image as your profile picture on MySpace, Facebook, or Bebo and describing why it represents you. For the moment, the Free Your Avatar page is only up on the UK version of Xbox.com, so we're guessing the contest is only for the UK (although, at the moment, there is no such stipulation in the official rules).

[Via Xbox Avatar Life]

JoystiqSnap pictures of your Avatars with the 'Free Your Avatar' tool originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 15 Dec 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatarsfree-you-avatarnew-xbox-experiencenxeMon, 15 Dec 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Avatars vs. Miis vs. Home people ... FIGHT!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/11/avatars-vs-miis-vs-home-people-fight/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/11/avatars-vs-miis-vs-home-people-fight/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/11/avatars-vs-miis-vs-home-people-fight/#commentsFiled under:


In the battle of video game customizable character thingymabobs, there can be only one winner. Now, with Sony's release of Home and its unique inhabitants, we have a battle between the big three and only one victor can be crowned.

Gamesradar set up a battle between Xbox 360's Avatars versus the Nintendo's Miis and the Playstation 3's Home characters in a console avatar showdown by comparing each console's rendition of various people's likenesses. And after comparing to see which console is best at remaking said person, a victor is chosen. It's definitely a judgment based war, so we'll go ahead and award our console likeness creating winner to be the 360's Avatars. Not because we're Xbox 360 fanboys, but because ... well, actually, that's exactly why.

JoystiqAvatars vs. Miis vs. Home people ... FIGHT! originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Dec 2008 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avataravatarsnew-xbox-experiencenxeThu, 11 Dec 2008 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Post NXE Launch: More Live Friends, XBLA sales nearly triple]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/11/post-nxe-launch-more-live-friends-xbla-sales-nearly-triple/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/11/post-nxe-launch-more-live-friends-xbla-sales-nearly-triple/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/11/post-nxe-launch-more-live-friends-xbla-sales-nearly-triple/#commentsFiled under:


Major Nelson has dropped a few interesting bits of data regarding Xbox Live since the launch of the New Xbox Experience. Overall, sales of content on Xbox Live Marketplace -- including games, movies, and TV shows -- are up considerably. Probably most impressive is the claim that Xbox Live Arcade sales have "almost tripled" since launch. Specifically, the sales of games with Avatar support -- UNO in particular -- have gone up. A Kingdom for Keflings, which includes Avatar support and launched the same day as the NXE, had "the second-best first week of performance ever" (what was the first, we wonder?). Another interesting tidbit, the number of Friends added per Xbox Live member has increased by 33% since launch.

Joystiq got a chance to pick the brain of Xbox group product manager Aaron Greenberg about the NXE launch. Head over to Joystiq to read his thoughts yourself.

JoystiqPost NXE Launch: More Live Friends, XBLA sales nearly triple originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Dec 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>new-xbox-experiencenxeThu, 11 Dec 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft shares post-NXE stats: Marketplace sales up, more friends online]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/10/microsoft-shares-post-nxe-stats-marketplace-sales-up-more-frie/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/10/microsoft-shares-post-nxe-stats-marketplace-sales-up-more-frie/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/10/microsoft-shares-post-nxe-stats-marketplace-sales-up-more-frie/#commentsFiled under:


Just three weeks after the - by all accounts, very successful - launch of the New Xbox Experience, Microsoft is ready to trumpet some statistics related to the new interface. To help us navigate this panoply of numbers, Microsoft lent us the services of one Mr. Aaron Greenberg, group product manager for Xbox 360, who served as our tour guide through the press release.

First, with 14 million folks suddenly using an entirely new interface designed to make content easier to find, you'd wonder how successful it is in that regard. Well, glad you asked! Microsoft reports that Marketplace downloads of TV episodes were up 30% and movie downloads an impressive 49% the week after the NXE launch. This is in spite of competition from Netflix's ample on-demand offerings in both areas. Wondering how many folks are using Netflix? Yeah, so were we ... Greenberg told us they're not providing that data just yet, but we wouldn't be surprised to hear them noting that as a success during next month's CES.

Continue reading Microsoft shares post-NXE stats: Marketplace sales up, more friends online

JoystiqMicrosoft shares post-NXE stats: Marketplace sales up, more friends online originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Dec 2008 19:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Aaron-GreenbergBreakingNewsNew-Xbox-ExperienceNXEXbox-360Wed, 10 Dec 2008 19:36:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony won't ape NXE, no plans for Netflix on PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/09/sony-wont-ape-nxe-no-plans-for-netflix-on-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/09/sony-wont-ape-nxe-no-plans-for-netflix-on-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/09/sony-wont-ape-nxe-no-plans-for-netflix-on-ps3/#commentsFiled under: ,

According to Sony, there's nothing wrong with the Current PlayStation Experience (CPE). In an interview with GamePro, SCEA's hardware guru, John Kohler, said that the company has no plans to make any "grand-scale changes" to the PS3's XrossMediaBar interface, a la the New Xbox Experience.

"We haven't had many navigation complaints about the XMB interface, so the XMB will be a part of PlayStation products moving forward," Kohler said. "That doesn't mean we're closed off to changing certain parts of it - there are areas in which we can certainly improve, and we look to do so in the future."

But what about one of our fave features of the NXE: Netflix Instant Queue streaming? "We've concentrated most of our efforts on our download service, both rentals and downloads of movies and TV shows," Kohler responded when asked about the potential for Netflix on PS3, adding, "Our efforts will continue to be there, because our customers want to own the content." How about "own some content," for reality's sake?

[Via PS3 Fanboy]

JoystiqSony won't ape NXE, no plans for Netflix on PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Dec 2008 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>netflixnew-xbox-experiencenxePS3xmbxross-media-barTue, 09 Dec 2008 16:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Brrr-y little snow gear arrives for NXE Avatars]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/03/brrr-y-little-snow-gear-arrives-for-nxe-avatars/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/03/brrr-y-little-snow-gear-arrives-for-nxe-avatars/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/03/brrr-y-little-snow-gear-arrives-for-nxe-avatars/#commentsFiled under:

Earlier today, our comrades at X3F caught sight of an NXE Spotlight promo for new Avatar winter gear ... only it wasn't available yet. The wee digital billboard (above) is now absent from the NXE as of this posting, but we've confirmed that the snowboarding/skiing related items are, in fact, now available - for both male and female Avatars - free of charge.

Unfortunately, there's not a lot to get excited about. Each sex has a new jacket, beanie, pair of gloves, and pair of boots available. You can tell there are new items available by the star icon in the upper left-hand corner of the "Change My Clothes" option in the Avatar editor. The new items also have stars on the thumbnails themselves. So, get ready for even more Avatars wearing the same outfit. We hope that Microsoft still plans to introduce more clothing and accessories soon, and in larger quantities.

JoystiqBrrr-y little snow gear arrives for NXE Avatars originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Dec 2008 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatar-accessoriesavatarsnew-xbox-experiencenxeXbox-360Wed, 03 Dec 2008 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ski and snow Avatar items now available [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/03/ski-and-snow-avatar-items-coming-soon/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/03/ski-and-snow-avatar-items-coming-soon/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/03/ski-and-snow-avatar-items-coming-soon/#commentsFiled under:


Update: Microsoft just released the new Avatar Winter apparel which is now available via the Avatar customizer. Original blog listed below.

As promised, it looks like new Avatar clothing will be making its way to the Avatar customizer in the near future as an ad on the Xbox 360 dashboard's "Spotlight" channel advertises fresh duds.

The Spotlight ad (photo above) promotes new ski and snowboard apparel stating that the content is "available now", though the items aren't available quite yet. Once clicked, the ad brings you to the Avatar customizer where, sadly, no new snowy clothes are to be found. Keep your eyes peeled though, we expect the new (and free) winter apparel to go live rather soon.

[Thanks, Sgt Quackers]

JoystiqSki and snow Avatar items now available [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Dec 2008 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avataravatarsnew-xbox-experiencenxeWed, 03 Dec 2008 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft working to fix NXE audio issues]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/02/microsoft-working-to-fix-nxe-audio-issues/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/02/microsoft-working-to-fix-nxe-audio-issues/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/02/microsoft-working-to-fix-nxe-audio-issues/#commentsFiled under:

Some Xbox 360 users who updated to the New Xbox Experience have reported hearing only the sounds of silence through their HDMI cables (the phenomenon, not the song). The problem appears to be caused with older monitors and devices that are not compatible with a new HDCP driver found in NXE.

Speaking to Shacknews, Microsoft said, "We are aware that a handful of Xbox LIVE users are experiencing audio issues, and are diligently monitoring this issue and working towards a solution." No timeframe for the fix was given; in the meantime, you might want to dust off those antiquated component cables.

JoystiqMicrosoft working to fix NXE audio issues originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Dec 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiohdcphdminew-xbox-experiencenxeXbox-360Tue, 02 Dec 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MS admits to 360 audio problems caused by NXE, working towards a 'solution']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/02/ms-admits-to-360-audio-problems-caused-by-nxe-working-towards-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/02/ms-admits-to-360-audio-problems-caused-by-nxe-working-towards-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/02/ms-admits-to-360-audio-problems-caused-by-nxe-working-towards-a/#commentsFiled under:


Looks like the audiophiles over at the AVS forums weren't wrong about the New Xbox Experience killing some gamers' Xbox 360 audio (did you really doubt 'em?), because Microsoft has officially acknowledged the problem and promises a "solution" in the near future.

"We are aware that a handful of Xbox LIVE users are experiencing audio issues" a Microsoft rep informed Shacknews, promising that they're "diligently monitoring this issue and working towards a solution." According to numerous internet reports, after the NXE update was released a few weeks back, some Xbox 360 HDMI users lost all game audio.

Gaming without sound is no fun. Hopefully we can haz the NXE caused HDMI audio problems fixed soon.

JoystiqMS admits to 360 audio problems caused by NXE, working towards a 'solution' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Dec 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiodashboard-updatefall-updatehdminew-xbox-experiencenxeTue, 02 Dec 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Another handy NXE game install size guide]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/29/another-handy-nxe-game-install-size-guide/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/29/another-handy-nxe-game-install-size-guide/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/29/another-handy-nxe-game-install-size-guide/#commentsFiled under:


It seems like putting together lists of NXE game install sizes is all the rage these days. Now NeoGAF has joined the fun, compiling one of its own. This list includes a few games not featured on the Binge Gamer list we mentioned earlier this month. The list seems fairly exhaustive and we're sure that GAF users will be making it as comprehensive as possible. Many of the games listed also have comments as to how the game performs once installed to the hard drive. Just in case you're wondering -- and we know you are -- yes, load times in Rumble Roses XX are significantly reduced.

JoystiqAnother handy NXE game install size guide originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 29 Nov 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>new-xbox-experiencenxeSat, 29 Nov 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Real celebrities get Avatar'ed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/26/real-celebrities-get-avatared/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/26/real-celebrities-get-avatared/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/26/real-celebrities-get-avatared/#commentsFiled under:


Unlike the list of rich and famous Avatars we already shared with you where most (all the Joystiq network bloggers) weren't really celebrities, GamesRadar has a listing of really real Hollywood, gaming and political celebrity Avatars. Of course, Chuck Norris is included.

Make the jump to view all five pages of celebrity Avatars including gaming legends like Mario, Zelda and Kratos from God of War. If Hollywood celebs are your cup of tea, they've done up Paris Hilton, Michael Jackson and Stephen Colbert in Avatar form. There's even a Bush, Obama and a really accurate looking Palin Avatar. If only someone could make one look like Cliff Bleszinski ...

[Via Game Stooge]

JoystiqReal celebrities get Avatar'ed originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 Nov 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avataravatarsnew-xbox-experiencenxeWed, 26 Nov 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony's Netflix library (mostly) available on NXE]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/26/sonys-netflix-library-mostly-available-on-nxe/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/26/sonys-netflix-library-mostly-available-on-nxe/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/26/sonys-netflix-library-mostly-available-on-nxe/#commentsFiled under:


About a week after they abruptly removed their entire Netflix library from streaming to the 360, Sony's Columbia Pictures has decided to allow NXE Netflix streaming of most of their content. Thank goodness, because most Netflix subscribing fanboys already had pitchforks in hand and their retaliatory plan of action laid out.

We can confirm that almost all of the Columbia Pictures Netflix content can now be streamed to the 360, but a few movies (including Superbad) are still being blocked. Hopefully the remaining content's licensing deals will get dealt with and all streaming media will be available in the next week or so. Fingers crossed.

[Thanks, to everyone who sent this in]

JoystiqSony's Netflix library (mostly) available on NXE originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 Nov 2008 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>columbia-picturesnetflixnew-xbox-experiencenxesonyWed, 26 Nov 2008 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 Fanboy presents stupid Avatar tricks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/24/xbox-360-fanboy-presents-stupid-avatar-tricks/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/24/xbox-360-fanboy-presents-stupid-avatar-tricks/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/24/xbox-360-fanboy-presents-stupid-avatar-tricks/#commentsFiled under:


You've had the New Xbox Experience for less than a week now, but we know how you operate. We know that most of you are like sharks who must constantly move towards the next tech stimulation to avoid dying. Luckily, Xbox 360 Fanboy has your back, providing fun tricks you and your avatar can do together.

So, if you want to teach the miniature version of yourself to spin wildly, you're only one click away. If you need to learn how to spin wildly yourself, you're probably reading the wrong blog.

JoystiqXbox 360 Fanboy presents stupid Avatar tricks originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 24 Nov 2008 11:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatarnew-xbox-experiencenxeXbox-360Mon, 24 Nov 2008 11:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Learn how to make your Avatar frown, laugh and burp the alphabet]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/24/learn-how-to-make-your-avatar-frown-laugh-and-burp-the-alphabet/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/24/learn-how-to-make-your-avatar-frown-laugh-and-burp-the-alphabet/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/24/learn-how-to-make-your-avatar-frown-laugh-and-burp-the-alphabet/#commentsFiled under:

After a few days of messing with the New Xbox Experience Avatars, we have come across a few hidden (and not so hidden) Avatar moves that'll make him (or her) do various expressive feats. You know, certain button presses that'll make your Avatar burp, laugh, get angry and even smack his head on your screen. Don't worry though, Avatar heads are jelly-like and shouldn't crack your television's screen.

Our compiled list of Avatar moves is posted after the break and is broken into two different lists. One for Avatar fun you while in the customizer and one for the 360's dashboard. (Avatars tend to act differently in various surroundings.) We believe our list is rather comprehensive, but we're sure there are other goodies yet to be discovered. Think new hair colors. If you believe you've discovered an Avatar move that isn't listed, please, feel free to share.

Continue reading Learn how to make your Avatar frown, laugh and burp the alphabet

JoystiqLearn how to make your Avatar frown, laugh and burp the alphabet originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 24 Nov 2008 00:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avataravatarsnew-xbox-experiencenxexbox-360-dashboardMon, 24 Nov 2008 00:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Crazy colored Avatar hair discovered!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/23/crazy-colored-avatar-hair-discovered/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/23/crazy-colored-avatar-hair-discovered/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/23/crazy-colored-avatar-hair-discovered/#commentsFiled under:

We were under the impression that every feature in the New Xbox Experience and (specifically) Avatars was discovered, but we're learning that there are more eggs to be found.

Hidden within' the Avatar customizer is an option for colored Avatar hair. Colored hair including favs like purple, blue, red, pink, green, etc. Simply follow the steps below to "unlock" the anime'riffic Avatar hair colors and instantly be the cool kid on the block. Or at least the cool kid in your Avatar village.
  • Go to the "Change My Features" section of the Avatar customizer.
  • Highlight (don't click) the "Hairstyles" tile in the "My Features" area.
  • Patiently wait. After one minute the "Hairstyles" tile will spin.
  • That's it, hair colors unlocked! Choose your hairstyle and the new hair colors will be available.
[Via Kotaku, Thanks red son rising]

JoystiqCrazy colored Avatar hair discovered! originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 23 Nov 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avataravatarsnew-xbox-experiencenxeSun, 23 Nov 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft: NXE Avatar clothing updates will be free ... for now]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/21/microsoft-nxe-avatar-clothing-updates-will-be-free-for-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/21/microsoft-nxe-avatar-clothing-updates-will-be-free-for-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/21/microsoft-nxe-avatar-clothing-updates-will-be-free-for-now/#commentsFiled under:


We've known for some time that Microsoft has been planning additional clothing and accessories to differentiate (and bizarre-ify) your New Xbox Experience Avatar. In fact, on Wednesday, MS announced that new Avatar content will be rolled out biweekly for six months. Today we know that, at least for now, it will be free.

Germany's Xbox product manager, Boris Schneider-Johne, told dreisechzig.net that the early offerings will be free of charge. After that? "What's going to happen as of spring is yet to be announced," he said. We do know that for-pay and sponsored Avatar goodies are definitely on Microsoft's mind, as evidenced in remarks made by Xbox Live chief John Schappert in August.

[Via X3F]

Curious about the New Xbox Experience? Check out our ridiculously informative nine-video feature, covering everything from Avatar creation, Netflix integration, and the 8-player party system to installing games to the hard drive, the new Marketplace, the Blade-like "Guide" interface, and more!

JoystiqMicrosoft: NXE Avatar clothing updates will be free ... for now originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Nov 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatarsdlcnew-xbox-experiencenxeXbox-360Fri, 21 Nov 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[NXE reportedly causes sound issues for HDMI users]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/21/nxe-reportedly-causes-sound-issues-for-hdmi-users/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/21/nxe-reportedly-causes-sound-issues-for-hdmi-users/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/21/nxe-reportedly-causes-sound-issues-for-hdmi-users/#commentsFiled under:


There's quite a thread going at the AVForums in which several 360 owners are saying that the New Xbox Experience has caused their Xbox 360 consoles to lose all sound. The problem seems to be isolated to those who use HDMI to connect the console to their television sets, although one user has complained of the same problem using a SCART connection. For the moment, a quick fix has been discovered that seems to work for many people. If you are experiencing this glitch try the following:
  • While the Xbox 360 is turned off, remove the hard drive.
  • Turn on the Xbox 360.
  • Once the Dashboard loads, replace the hard drive.
Reportedly, this fix only lasts while the Xbox is on. Once you turn it off, you'll have to repeat the steps above to make the sound work again. We've contacted Microsoft and the company is aware of the issue. We'll update this post when we receive more information.

[Thanks, Daniel H]

JoystiqNXE reportedly causes sound issues for HDMI users originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Nov 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hdminew-xbox-experiencenxeFri, 21 Nov 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[That was quick: Avatar machinima (sort of)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/21/that-was-quick-avatar-machinima-sort-of/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/21/that-was-quick-avatar-machinima-sort-of/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/21/that-was-quick-avatar-machinima-sort-of/#commentsFiled under:

The NXE just launched earlier this week, and already we have some of the first videos of people using Avatars to craft machinima. Okay, so maybe it isn't so much machinima as it is an amusing use of the limited control players have over Avatars, but it's funny so bear with us. Sure, you might have played around with your Avatar. You might have twirled its head around until it got dizzy. Maybe you figured out that you can slam its face into the screen if you zoom in close enough while taking your gamer picture. But, did you know that your Avatar can sing and dance? It's true. Just check out the video above (and another embedded after the break) and see for yourself.

Continue reading That was quick: Avatar machinima (sort of)

JoystiqThat was quick: Avatar machinima (sort of) originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Nov 2008 11:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatarsmachinimanew-xbox-experiencenxeFri, 21 Nov 2008 11:20:00 EST<![CDATA[First wave of new Avatar clothing will be free]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/21/first-wave-of-new-avatar-clothing-will-be-free/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/21/first-wave-of-new-avatar-clothing-will-be-free/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/21/first-wave-of-new-avatar-clothing-will-be-free/#commentsFiled under:


You can calm your "will new Avatar clothes cost me Microsoft points?" worries, because Microsoft is committed to offering the upcoming Avatar fashion choices for free ... for now.

Talking to German website dreisechzig.net, Boris Schneider-Johne (Microsoft's Xbox product manager in Germany) confirmed that the first few weeks of new Avatar clothes will be available for free, but doesn't go as far to say that all Avatar clothing in the future will be available for no charge. "More costumes will be made available for free in the next weeks" says Schneider-Johne, adding "what's going to happen as of spring is yet to be announced." So, feel free t put those Microsoft points back in your pocket ... for now.

JoystiqFirst wave of new Avatar clothing will be free originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Nov 2008 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avataravatarsnew-xbox-experiencenxeFri, 21 Nov 2008 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The 'Rich and Famous' list of celeb Avatars]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/20/the-rich-and-famous-list-of-celeb-avatars/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/20/the-rich-and-famous-list-of-celeb-avatars/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/20/the-rich-and-famous-list-of-celeb-avatars/#commentsFiled under:


Our Joystiq counterparts put together a photo gallery of New Xbox Experience Avatar awesomeness. It's a photo gallery of the the gaming community's (rich and famous) elite, side by side with their custom Avatars.

Go ahead, take a browse for yourself. You'll spot Xbox celebs like Major Nelson and the entire GSB crew as well as N'Gai, Godfree, CheapyD, FourZeroTwo and many more. Also, please excuse the numerous Joystiq and X3F blogger pics, because we're neither rich or famous. But we have to fuel our own personal egos somehow ... right?

Ed. Note: Xav has been added. Rest easy, kids.

Gallery: NXE Avatars of the Rich and Famous

Garnett Lee - 1UPRobin Yang - GameDailyLibe Goad - GameDailyDustin Burg - Xbox 360 FanboyTrixie - Microsoft

JoystiqThe 'Rich and Famous' list of celeb Avatars originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Nov 2008 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avataravatarsnew-xbox-experiencenxeThu, 20 Nov 2008 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony on 360 Netflix issues: 'Not specific to Xbox']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/20/sony-on-360-netflix-issues-not-specific-to-xbox/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/20/sony-on-360-netflix-issues-not-specific-to-xbox/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/20/sony-on-360-netflix-issues-not-specific-to-xbox/#commentsFiled under:


We're sure it happened to many of you out there who had preview access to the New Xbox Experience. You configured Netflix to run on your 360 and (naturally) the first thing you added was the anime film Paprika to your streaming queue. Who wouldn't, right? Let's say you watched most of the film and, for one reason or another, decided to finish it the next day only to find that it had been unceremoniously yanked from your queue. Early speculation held that the reason films were yanked was because they were owned by Sony which, as perhaps you've heard, is in direct competition with Microsoft.

Sony has spoken to MTV's Multiplayer and, according to them, competition has nothing to do with the films being pulled. According to a spokesperson, "This issue is not specific to Xbox or any other individual platform." The spokesperson added, "Sony Pictures is currently in discussions with the relevant parties to resolve certain licensing matters related to the distribution of its motion pictures. Given the ongoing nature of these discussions, we don't think it is appropriate to comment further at this time." So, licensing problems it is then. Let's just hope these problems are resolved soon because we you really need to finish watching Paprika.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqSony on 360 Netflix issues: 'Not specific to Xbox' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Nov 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>netflixnew-xbox-experiencenxeThu, 20 Nov 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Bungie: Just say 'NO' to NXE install of Halo 3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/19/bungie-just-say-no-to-nxe-install-of-halo-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/19/bungie-just-say-no-to-nxe-install-of-halo-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/19/bungie-just-say-no-to-nxe-install-of-halo-3/#commentsFiled under: ,

As we reported last week, Eurogamer noticed something fishy about its NXE HDD install of Halo 3 when investigating the performance of titles using this new feature: it was awful. Turns out that, with today's roll-out of the New Xbox Experience, more and more people are discovering this. Bungie has weighed in on the topic, revealing that, because of the way the game's designed, it really shouldn't be installed to the 360's hard disk.

In a post on the Bungie forums, engineer Mat Noguchi explains that the slower loading after a full HDD install is a direct result of how the game was designed to use the HDD in the first place. "When Halo 3 runs, if a HDD is present, we copy maps from the DVD to the utility partition on the HDD," says Noguchi. "And as a result, it means that even if Halo 3 is already installed to the HDD, it will still copy maps to the utility partition."

The problem: copying from the HDD to the HDD is slow. "Ultimately this is because for the HDD, you read and write through the same mechanism, i.e., the hard drive read/write head, and those reads and writes cannot occur simultaneously through a single mechanism," Noguchi explains. The moral of this story: don't install Halo 3 to the HDD and you'll be much, much happier.

Bungie has no plans to issue a post-NXE launch fix because, as Naguchi writes, "The risks of doing that and the resources required has to be carefully considered against what could really be a rather insignificant change to the player experience."

[Thanks, David]

Curious about the New Xbox Experience? Check out our ridiculously informative nine-video feature, covering everything from Avatar creation, Netflix integration, and the 8-player party system to installing games to the hard drive, the new Marketplace, the Blade-like "Guide" interface, and more!

JoystiqBungie: Just say 'NO' to NXE install of Halo 3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 Nov 2008 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bungiehalohalo-3microsoft-game-studiosnew-xbox-experiencenxeXbox-360Wed, 19 Nov 2008 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Avatars now available in Scene It? Box Office Smash]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/19/avatars-now-available-in-scene-it-box-office-smash/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/19/avatars-now-available-in-scene-it-box-office-smash/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/19/avatars-now-available-in-scene-it-box-office-smash/#commentsFiled under:


With all of the NXE excitement going around, it might have been easy to forget that Avatar support is now available for Scene It? Box Office Smash. It might have been easy to forget, except that we're totally reminding you about it right now. All you have to do is pop the game in and download the title update. Voila, instant Avatar support. And now, if you'll excuse us, we'll just go back to waiting for Avatar support in Left 4 Dead*. The freaky machinima possibilities alone will be worth the wait.

*Avatar support for Left 4 Dead is not in the works and is something we made up (unfortunately).

JoystiqAvatars now available in Scene It? Box Office Smash originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 Nov 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatarsnew-xbox-experiencenxescene-itscene-it-box-office-smashWed, 19 Nov 2008 16:30:00 EST