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[Skylanders surpasses 100 million toys sold]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/07/skylanders-surpasses-100-million-toys-sold/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/07/skylanders-surpasses-100-million-toys-sold/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/07/skylanders-surpasses-100-million-toys-sold/#comments Skylanders surpasses 100 million toys soldChildren everywhere are surrounded by tiny monsters, but there's no cause for alarm - unless you're a parent on a budget, that is. Activison has announced that 100 million Skylanders toys have been sold, reports Destructoid. The news comes from Activision's press conference during Toy Fair 2013. Last month, Activision revealed that the franchise has topped $500 million in sales in the United States alone, with $195 million of that number driven by 2012's Skylanders: Giants.

The publisher recently announced its latest assault on parental wallets, Skylanders Swap Force. The new game, which features a new line of figures with interchangeable parts, will land on (and presumably fly off of) retail shelves this fall.

JoystiqSkylanders surpasses 100 million toys sold originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Feb 2013 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsactivisionmicrosoftnintendopcplaystationps3skylanders-swap-forcetoys-for-bobVicarious-Visionswiiwii-uxboxThu, 07 Feb 2013 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Toys for Bob and Vicarious Visions on keeping annual Skylanders 'magic' alive]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/toys-for-bob-and-vicarious-visions-on-keeping-annual-skylanders/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/toys-for-bob-and-vicarious-visions-on-keeping-annual-skylanders/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/toys-for-bob-and-vicarious-visions-on-keeping-annual-skylanders/#comments Skylanders Trying to stay ahead of the curve as an annual franchise
Since first launching in 2011, Activision has turned its toy-powered gaming franchise Skylanders into an annual release. The third game in the series, Skylanders: Swap Force, is set to arrive this fall and will allow players to mix-and-match parts of 16 new toys for over 250 in game character combinations.

Despite the franchise's success, solidifying it as an annual title in Activision's portfolio, it may not be immune to its new schedule. Activision has walked this road before, with the once-popular Guitar Hero franchise buckling under its own weight of too many releases in too short a time period. But Paul Reiche, Studio President at Toys for Bob [above, left], believes that innovation is the key to growing the franchise; innovation that will keep the "magic" alive for children.

"The way that we're going to succeed is by ensuring that every year we have a meaningful innovation both in the toys and in the software as well," Reiche told Joystiq. Though Toys for Bob first developed Skylanders and launched its successor, Skylanders Giants, in 2012, developer Vicarious Visions has taken over to help the third entry in the series - a studio that developed ports and iOS games in the Skylanders universe and, at one time, helped Activision port the Guitar Hero franchise to mobile and Nintendo platforms.

Continue reading Toys for Bob and Vicarious Visions on keeping annual Skylanders 'magic' alive

JoystiqToys for Bob and Vicarious Visions on keeping annual Skylanders 'magic' alive originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Feb 2013 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsmicrosoftnintendopcplaystationps3skylanders-swap-forceToys-for-BobVicarious-Visionswiiwii-uxboxWed, 06 Feb 2013 17:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Skylanders Swap Force assembles this fall, developed by Vicarious Visions]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/05/skylanders-swap-force-assembles-this-fall-developed-by-vicariou/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/05/skylanders-swap-force-assembles-this-fall-developed-by-vicariou/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/05/skylanders-swap-force-assembles-this-fall-developed-by-vicariou/#comments Skylanders proprietors Toys for Bob will step aside for the latest franchise installment, Skylanders Swap Force. Vicarious Visions is handling development this time, which Activision says will allow Toys for Bob the space and freedom to come up with their next thing.

The main toy gimmick of Skylanders Swap Force is simple: 16 new special figures have inter-connecting torsos and bottom halves. Once you've combined two pieces, you place the resulting amalgam on the portal to realize your creation within the game. I replaced the tentacle-laden bottom half of a squid with the electricity wheel of a robotic Skylander, making my new squid-machine hybrid much more agile. Tentacle feet aren't an ideal form of transportation on land.

Skylanders Swap Force is still early in development, so I wasn't able to see much in the way of gameplay - there was only one small area and a miniboss encounter, and it was a hands-off demo. Vicarious Visions has added jumping, though, one of the most requested features missing from the last two games.

Of course, Skylanders Swap Force is compatible with all the previously released Skylanders figures. Swap Force will also present 32 new core Skylanders figures - 16 are new and the rest are updated versions of older figures. Considering the potential of lost halves, Activision tells me its customer support team will be ready to help replace or otherwise assist with any issues the new figures incur.

The Skylanders Swap Force starter pack will come with a copy of Skylanders Swap Force, the new portal, two Swap characters and one standard Skylander. Old portals from Skylanders and Skylanders Giants will be incompatible with Swap Force.

Skylanders Swap Force will launch on the Xbox 360, PS3, Wii U, Wii and 3DS. The Wii version is being developed by Beenox, while the 3DS version is coming from n-Space.

Gallery: Skylanders Swap Force

JoystiqSkylanders Swap Force assembles this fall, developed by Vicarious Visions originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Feb 2013 02:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsactivisionbeenoxmicrosoftn-spacenintendoplaystationps3skylandersskylanders-swap-forcevicarious-visionswiiwii-uxboxTue, 05 Feb 2013 02:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Skylanders franchise up to $500 million retail sales in the US alone]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/11/skylanders-franchise-up-to-500-million-retail-sales-in-the-us-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/11/skylanders-franchise-up-to-500-million-retail-sales-in-the-us-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/11/skylanders-franchise-up-to-500-million-retail-sales-in-the-us-a/#comments Skylanders franchise up to $500 million retail sales in the US aloneThe United States loves Skylanders to the tune of a whopping $500 million of retail sales, as announced by Activision this morning. Based on recently released NPD data, US boys and girls (and US older boys and girls) can't get enough of the action-RPG games and those oh-so-lucrative accessory packs and figures.

$195 million of those retail sales come from Skylanders Giants and its associated retail products alone; the game only arrived on retail shelves just under three months ago. Maybe that figure isn't so startling when you consider the game brought with it an estimated $500 worth of new figures to collect. While Giants certainly did respectably in December's NPDs, coming in 8th on the month's best-sellers chart, it's clearly the accessory packs and figures which have brought in the big bucks.

Continue reading Skylanders franchise up to $500 million retail sales in the US alone

JoystiqSkylanders franchise up to $500 million retail sales in the US alone originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 Jan 2013 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsactivisionactivision-blizzardmicrosoftn-spacenintendoplaystationps3toys-for-bobvicarious-visionswiiwii-uxboxFri, 11 Jan 2013 09:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Guitar Hero 7 used only a six-string guitar, canned in 2011]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/05/report-guitar-hero-7-used-only-a-six-string-guitar-canned-in-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/05/report-guitar-hero-7-used-only-a-six-string-guitar-canned-in-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/05/report-guitar-hero-7-used-only-a-six-string-guitar-canned-in-2/#comments Report Guitar Hero 7 had 6string guitar and nothing else, canned in 2011Guitar Hero 7 was a game that existed, at least in a development phase, until Activision canceled it in early 2011, Kotaku reported, citing an anonymous source.

Guitar Hero 7 had only a guitar, ditching the drums, mic and bass that surfaced once Rock Band entered the market. The guitar saw some changes, however, and had a full six strings and an extra button in the neck. It was expensive, unresponsive and development was, overall, a "disaster," Kotaku said.

Vicarious Visions, the team in charge of developing Guitar Hero 7, had some great ideas about creating a morphing, unique music video for each song. The songs themselves posed a problem: "The game had all of the worst hits from the 1990s," Kotaku wrote, quoting its source. "They realized that, with our lack of budget and time, they couldn't get quality music so they bought bargain-basement music like 'Closing time' and 'Sex and Candy.' There were some songs in there that had been used at least three times in the GH franchises before."

The music video idea quickly became unwieldy, too, and development fell apart. Guitar Hero 7 was canceled in the middle of an expected two-year development cycle. Just think, we could have had a new Guitar Hero on our GOTY lists this year. Maybe.

Maybe not.
[Pictured: Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock]

JoystiqReport: Guitar Hero 7 used only a six-string guitar, canned in 2011 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Dec 2012 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActivisionGuitar-Heroguitar-hero-7microsoftplaystationps3Vicarious-VisionsxboxWed, 05 Dec 2012 19:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Skylanders: Battlegrounds and Lost Islands bring the portal to iOS in November]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/29/skylanders-battlegrounds-and-lost-islands-bring-the-portal-november/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/29/skylanders-battlegrounds-and-lost-islands-bring-the-portal-november/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/29/skylanders-battlegrounds-and-lost-islands-bring-the-portal-november/#comments Bringing the portal to iOS with Skylanders BattlegroundsBeyond the immense popularity of its annual war games and subscription-based MMO, a new brand is helping to grow Activision's portfolio of high-value licenses: Skylanders. Built on the foundation of collectible, physical products, the Skylanders brand has spawned a sequel that is already besting initial sales efforts of its original entry overseas.

Though the franchise's first foray into the mobile space has been a success - with Skylanders: Cloud Patrol hitting over 1.5 million downloads since launching earlier this year, according to Activision Mobile VP Greg Canessa - the game lacks the same physical link to the collectible figures. Next month, Activision aims to change that strategy with Skylanders: Battlegrounds.

Confirming leaks from earlier this month, Canessa told Joystiq that Skylanders: Battlegrounds is a "console-like, action-RPG" featuring the same ability to inject Skylanders characters on the fly using a new, Bluetooth-powered portal.

Continue reading Skylanders: Battlegrounds and Lost Islands bring the portal to iOS in November

JoystiqSkylanders: Battlegrounds and Lost Islands bring the portal to iOS in November originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Oct 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActivateActivisionActivision-MobileGreg-CanessaiosipadiphonemobileSkylanders-Battlegroundsskylanders-cloud-patrolSkylanders-Lost-IslandsVicarious-VisionsMon, 29 Oct 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Skylanders Cloud Patrol takes flight on iDevices today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/skylanders-cloud-patrol-takes-flight-on-idevices-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/skylanders-cloud-patrol-takes-flight-on-idevices-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/skylanders-cloud-patrol-takes-flight-on-idevices-today/#comments ImageActivision's kid friendly cash cow has arrived on the App Store. Skylanders Cloud Patrol is a new title in the explosively popular Skylanders franchise optimized for Apple's iPad and iPhone/iPod Touch, featuring over 30 different Skylanders to unlock in "arcade shooting gallery-style gameplay." By putting in the code that comes with their skylanders figure, players can unlock them in Cloud Patrol -- just like in Skylanders proper.

We've got a pair of galleries below you can check out, one for the iPad and the other for iPhone and iPod Touch users. Skylanders Cloud Patrol is currently available for download in the Apple App store for $.99.

Gallery: Skylanders Cloud Patrol (iPhone/iPod Touch)

Gallery: Skylanders Cloud Patrol (iPad)

JoystiqSkylanders Cloud Patrol takes flight on iDevices today originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisioniosipadiphonemobileskylandersskylanders-cloud-patrolvicarious-visionsThu, 05 Apr 2012 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Vicarious Visions has three unannounced projects, including one for Wii U]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/30/vicarious-visions-has-three-unannounced-projects-including-one/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/30/vicarious-visions-has-three-unannounced-projects-including-one/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/30/vicarious-visions-has-three-unannounced-projects-including-one/#comments Longtime Guitar Hero, Tony Hawk, and now Skylanders developer Vicarious Visions has three new projects in the works, according to a report from GameSpot. Reportedly, an associate producer's LinkedIn page specifies something codenamed "Project Nova" for Xbox 360, PS3, and Wii U, the PS3/Xbox 360 "Project Atlantis," and "Project Phoenix," for Xbox 360, PS3, and regular-style Wii.

Of course, no other information was given about these projects -- except that they prove that VV owner Activision is already integrating Wii U into its multiplatform development. Not only would "Project Phoenix" be the first Wii U game from VV, by the way, these would also be the second, third, and fourth PS3/Xbox 360 games from the studio. It's only made Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2 for those platforms.

JoystiqVicarious Visions has three unannounced projects, including one for Wii U originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 Sep 2011 13:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionmicrosoftnintendoplaystationproject-atlantisproject-novaproject-phoenixps3vicarious-visionswiiwii-uxboxFri, 30 Sep 2011 13:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Heroic sacrifices: The companies behind Guitar Hero]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/23/heroic-sacrifices-the-companies-behind-guitar-hero/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/23/heroic-sacrifices-the-companies-behind-guitar-hero/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/23/heroic-sacrifices-the-companies-behind-guitar-hero/#comments The Guitar Hero series touched many people, and not just by strapping plastic guitars to them. As the series reached its absurd heights of success, it caused more game developers to enter into the service of note charts and extreme rocker-dude 3D models.

And now that Activision has stopped production on the Guitar Hero series and closed that business unit, we can look back at how it affected the people who made it -- the companies who either moved on or were chewed up and spat out by the Guitar Hero monster.

Continue reading Heroic sacrifices: The companies behind Guitar Hero

JoystiqHeroic sacrifices: The companies behind Guitar Hero originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Feb 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7-studiosactivisionbeenoxbudcat-creationsdsfreestylegamesglu-mobileguitar-heroguitar-hero-ripharmonixmachineworks-northwestmicrosoftmobileneversoftnintendopcplaystationps3redoctaneunderground-developmentvicarious-visionswiixboxWed, 23 Feb 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nine Inch Nails headlines new Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock tracks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/11/nine-inch-nails-headlines-new-guitar-hero-warriors-of-rock-trac/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/11/nine-inch-nails-headlines-new-guitar-hero-warriors-of-rock-trac/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/11/nine-inch-nails-headlines-new-guitar-hero-warriors-of-rock-trac/#comments Reznorites rejoice, as a hefty dose of Nine Inch Nails has been delivered to Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock. The January Mega Pack features three songs by NIN, including "Head Like a Hole," "Closer" and "The Hand That Feeds." The pack also includes three tracks by A Day to Remember and four additional singles by HIM, The Used, Hawthorne Heights and The Damned Things.

The ten-song pack can be had on Wii for 1800 points, Xbox 360 for 1440 MS Points or PS3 for $17.99. Tracks can also be purchased individually for 200 Wii points, 160 MS Points or $1.99, respectively. The tracks are available now on Xbox 360 and Wii and should hit the PSN once it updates later today.

Continue reading Nine Inch Nails headlines new Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock tracks

JoystiqNine Inch Nails headlines new Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock tracks originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Jan 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisiondlcguitar-hero-monthlyguitar-hero-warriors-of-rockmicrosoftneversoftnintendoplaystationps3psnVicarious-VisionswiixblmxboxTue, 11 Jan 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[DJ Hero 2 and Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock free DLC available now until Nov. 30]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/23/dj-hero-2-and-guitar-hero-warriors-of-rock-free-dlc-available-n/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/23/dj-hero-2-and-guitar-hero-warriors-of-rock-free-dlc-available-n/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/23/dj-hero-2-and-guitar-hero-warriors-of-rock-free-dlc-available-n/#comments Looking to expand your DJ Hero 2 and/or Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock catalogues at a significant discount? Activision's offering of free DLC for each game seeks to solve your problem, adding a DJ Tiesto-mixed three-track pack to DJ Hero 2 and a My Chemical Romance pack to Warriors of Rock, each of which is free in the US "via redemption code while supplies last." The catch: each pack is free for this week only before becoming paid content on November 30 (also, the content for Warriors of Rock is only available to Xbox 360 owners).

Details for both packs can be found after the break, including pricing for when they're no longer free next week. But hey, you're on top of things, so you're totally gonna get them while they're free. Head over to Activision and Coca-Cola's code generating website "while supplies last."

Continue reading DJ Hero 2 and Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock free DLC available now until Nov. 30

JoystiqDJ Hero 2 and Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock free DLC available now until Nov. 30 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Nov 2010 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionDJ-Hero-2dj-tiestodlcfreefreestyle-gamesguitar-hero-warriors-of-rockmicrosoftmy-chemical-romanceneversoftnintendoplaystationplaystation-networkps3psntiestovicarious-visionswiiwii-shopwii-shop-channelwiishopxblmxboxxbox-live-marketplaceTue, 23 Nov 2010 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Import GH: Metallica into Warriors of Rock for free during first week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/14/import-gh-metallica-into-warriors-of-rock-for-free-during-first/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/14/import-gh-metallica-into-warriors-of-rock-for-free-during-first/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/14/import-gh-metallica-into-warriors-of-rock-for-free-during-first/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Activision this morning revealed an incentive for Metallica slash Guitar Hero fans to pick up the forthcoming Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock in the game's first week launch window: the ability to import 39 of the former game's 49 tracks into the latter game for free. Like Guitar Hero 5, Band Hero, Guitar Hero: World Tour and Guitar Hero: Smash Hits, some of the songs in Guitar Hero: Metallica will be importable into the forthcoming rhythm game release.

After the week is up on October 5, the import will cost 480 MS Points / $4.99 / 600 Wii Points, tying it for first place with Guitar Hero 5 for most expensive import cost. We've broken down the track listing from GH: Metallica that will be available for import into Warriors of Rock (39 of 49 songs) after the break.

Continue reading Import GH: Metallica into Warriors of Rock for free during first week

JoystiqImport GH: Metallica into Warriors of Rock for free during first week originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Sep 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionguitar-hero-metallicaguitar-hero-warriors-of-rockmicrosoftneversoftnintendoplaystationps3vicarious-visionswiixboxTue, 14 Sep 2010 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock video highlights expanded DS/Wii connectivity]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/14/guitar-hero-warriors-of-rock-video-highlights-expanded-ds-wii-c/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/14/guitar-hero-warriors-of-rock-video-highlights-expanded-ds-wii-c/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/14/guitar-hero-warriors-of-rock-video-highlights-expanded-ds-wii-c/#comments DS and Wii integration isn't new to the Guitar Hero series, but in Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock, roadies on the DS can greater affect what's going on in the Wii game. There are also expanded modes for budding roadies, which you can see for yourself by schlepping on past the break.

Continue reading Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock video highlights expanded DS/Wii connectivity

JoystiqGuitar Hero: Warriors of Rock video highlights expanded DS/Wii connectivity originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Sep 2010 03:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisiondsguitar-hero-warriors-of-rockneversoftNeversoft-Entertainmentnintendovicarious-visionswiiTue, 14 Sep 2010 03:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Warriors of Rock first Guitar Hero game to integrate Twitter and Facebook on Wii]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/12/warriors-of-rock-first-guitar-hero-game-to-integrate-twitter-and/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/12/warriors-of-rock-first-guitar-hero-game-to-integrate-twitter-and/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/12/warriors-of-rock-first-guitar-hero-game-to-integrate-twitter-and/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Facebook and Twitter integration is far from the most exciting advancement made in gaming this generation. But, it's a feature that Wii has yet been privy too. That changes with the upcoming Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock. Speaking to Nintendojo, Vicarious Visions producer Joe Fisher proclaimed that "we are the first Wii title to support social networking sites, with Facebook and Twitter."

Elaborating further, he says that you'll be able to broadcast various in-game accomplishments. Making up for Nintendo's lack of a unified achievement system, the developer has decided to create its own, which connects with the social networking sites. "We've also incorporated a Wii award system, so when you do specific challenges in the game, you get credited for an award. You can share those with your online friends as well." Considering the arcade focus of the upcoming game, we're certain hardcore Guitar Hero fans will appreciate being able to share bragging rights on the Wii as well.

JoystiqWarriors of Rock first Guitar Hero game to integrate Twitter and Facebook on Wii originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 12 Sep 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>facebookguitar-hero-warriors-of-rocknintendotwittervicarious-visionswiiSun, 12 Sep 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Three new track packs available for iPhone Guitar Hero]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/13/three-new-track-packs-available-for-iphone-guitar-hero/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/13/three-new-track-packs-available-for-iphone-guitar-hero/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/13/three-new-track-packs-available-for-iphone-guitar-hero/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The in-app music store for Activision's pint-sized iPhone port of Guitar Hero has been updated with three new $1.99 song packs. The first includes one tune each from Band of Horses, Coldplay and Nada Surf, while the second and third each feature three tracks from KISS and Motörhead, respectively.

Continue reading Three new track packs available for iPhone Guitar Hero

JoystiqThree new track packs available for iPhone Guitar Hero originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Aug 2010 23:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActivisionBand-of-HorsesColdplaydlcguitar-hero-iphoneiphoneKISSmobileMotorheadNada-SurfVicarious-VisionsFri, 13 Aug 2010 23:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Breaking Benjamin, Weezer and more added to Guitar Hero iPhone store]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/23/breaking-benjamin-weezer-and-more-added-to-guitar-hero-iphone-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/23/breaking-benjamin-weezer-and-more-added-to-guitar-hero-iphone-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/23/breaking-benjamin-weezer-and-more-added-to-guitar-hero-iphone-s/#commentsFiled under: , ,

"Hello, Apple Customer Support, this is Janice speaking. How may I help you?"

"Does my iPhone replacement plan cover ... um, if I accidentally jammed my thumbs through my screen?"

"If you jam your -- sir, I have to ask ... were you attempting to play 'My Name is Jonas' on Expert on the Guitar Hero App?"

"How on Earth did you know?"

"Sir, you're the twentieth person to call with that issue today. Oh, and the answer to your question is of course not."

Click past the jump to see all the tracks from Breaking Benjamin, Coldplay, Rise Against and Weezer which were recently added to the Music Store on Guitar Hero for the iPhone and iPod Touch. Also, be gentle with those thumbs, okay?

Continue reading Breaking Benjamin, Weezer and more added to Guitar Hero iPhone store

JoystiqBreaking Benjamin, Weezer and more added to Guitar Hero iPhone store originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 Jul 2010 19:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionbreaking-benjamincoldplaydlcguitar-heroguitar-hero-iphonemobilerhythmrise-againstvicarious-visionsweezerFri, 23 Jul 2010 19:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2 DLC is coming back]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/29/marvel-ultimate-alliance-2-dlc-is-coming-back/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/29/marvel-ultimate-alliance-2-dlc-is-coming-back/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/29/marvel-ultimate-alliance-2-dlc-is-coming-back/#commentsFiled under: , ,

It's been a roller coaster ride this year for Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2 fans. First, all DLC for the game vanished from PSN -- it was explained that the DLC was merely a "limited time offer." Then, it vanished from Xbox Live, too. Now, gamers are forced to simply play the game itself, deprived of access to all DLC. Can you imagine the horror?

But fear not, for the DLC is returning when it's needed most -- just like a good superhero. Word comes via Hero HQ that the DLC is coming back, and we've managed to confirm it first-hand with an Activision rep. Sadly, the rep couldn't provide us with a timeframe for re-release, but as soon as The Journalistor defeats Red Tape Man, we'll be sure to let you know the details.

[Thanks, Catherine]

JoystiqMarvel Ultimate Alliance 2 DLC is coming back originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 Jun 2010 22:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisiondlcMarvel-Ultimate-Alliance-2MUA-2psnvicarious-visionsxbox-liveTue, 29 Jun 2010 22:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Guitar Hero on iPhone today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/07/guitar-hero-on-iphone-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/07/guitar-hero-on-iphone-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/07/guitar-hero-on-iphone-today/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Guitar Hero iPhone
From the "I could have sworn this was already a thing" file: Activision just revealed during Apple's WWDC 2010 event that its venerable Guitar Hero franchise is headed to the iPhone today for $2.99. The new version, which includes tracks from Queen and The Rolling Stones, has you tapping notes and swiping the screen in place of strumming.

Side note: If you didn't already have this information, it means you're not following the Steve Jobs' WWDC keynote, and we're going to need you to leave your nerd badge with Sheila on the way out.

Gallery: Guitar Hero for the iPhone and iPod Touch

JoystiqGuitar Hero on iPhone today originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 07 Jun 2010 13:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionAppleguitar-heroGuitar-Hero-iPhoneiPodmobileVicarious-VisionsWWDC-2010Mon, 07 Jun 2010 13:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Swag Sunday: Band Hero for everything Nintendo [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/13/swag-sunday-band-hero-for-everything-nintendo/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/13/swag-sunday-band-hero-for-everything-nintendo/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/13/swag-sunday-band-hero-for-everything-nintendo/#comments Update: We've closed the comments and will contact a winner this week. Check the email tied to your commenter name, folks!

For this week's not-quite-the-holidays-yet giveaway, we've got a Band Hero prize pack for the Nintendo Wii and DS lined up for one lucky winner. That's right! Not just Band Hero for your silly old home console, but also for your handheld (that is, unless you have a Nintendo DSi or XXL -- sorry!). Prepare to be embraced by friends and relatives as a genuine American (or Canadian, excluding Quebec) hero while playing along to your favorite Taylor Swift song.

In honor of last night's Video Game Awards (and the subsequent flood of news and trailers), we're asking you to tell us what your favorite trailer or news was from the World Premiere-stravaganza. We'll pick one winner at random this week, so as always, be sure to keep an eye on the inbox!
  • Leave a comment telling us what your favorite trailer or news was from last night's World Premiere-stravaganza (the VGAs).
  • You must be 18 years or older and a resident of the US or Canada (excluding Quebec -- likely because of The Kids in the Hall).
  • Limit 1 entry per person per day
  • This entry period ends at 7:31PM ET on Monday, December 13
  • At that time, we'll randomly select one winner to receive one copy of Band Hero for Nintendo DS ($50 ARV) and one copy of Band Hero for Nintendo Wii ($50 ARV).
  • For a list of complete rules, click here

What is Joyswag? Since we don't keep the games and merchandise we receive for review or promotional purposes, it becomes "Joyswag," which is passed along to our readers. For more info on our policy, click here.

JoystiqSwag Sunday: Band Hero for everything Nintendo [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 13 Dec 2009 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionband-heroDSgiveawayjoyswagmusicmusic-rhythmNintendorhythmspike-vga-2009swag-saturdayswag-sundayvicarious-visionsWiiSun, 13 Dec 2009 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[No Doubt suing Activision for Band Hero 'circus act' appearance]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/04/no-doubt-suing-activision-for-band-hero-circus-act-appearance/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/04/no-doubt-suing-activision-for-band-hero-circus-act-appearance/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/04/no-doubt-suing-activision-for-band-hero-circus-act-appearance/#comments The multi-platinum rock band No Doubt has filed a lawsuit against Activision in a L.A. County Superior Court claiming its likeness was "transformed" into a "virtual karaoke circus act" in over sixty songs in the recently released music title, Band Hero. According to TMZ, No Doubt claims gamers were only supposed to be able to use their likeness with three of its own tracks; however, the band is available as playable characters through the game's entire music catalog.

Of particular note is lead singer Gwen Stefani's displeasure that her likeness can be used to sing "Honky Tonk Woman" by the Rolling Stones -- a song which references sex with prostitutes -- using a male voice and mannerisms. For its "circus act" inclusion, No Doubt is seeking an injunction to halt the "unauthorized use" of the band's name and likeness, as well as an unknown amount of damages (aka mad monies). Seems like Activision can't keep rock stars happy, dead or alive.

[Via TeamXbox]

JoystiqNo Doubt suing Activision for Band Hero 'circus act' appearance originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionBand Heroband-heroBandHerobudcat-creationsDSGuitar-Herogwen-stefanilawsuitMicrosoftneversoftNintendono-doubtRed-Octanevicarious-visionsWiiXbox-360Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo World Store holding Band Hero launch event tomorrow]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/31/nintendo-world-store-holding-band-hero-launch-event-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/31/nintendo-world-store-holding-band-hero-launch-event-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/31/nintendo-world-store-holding-band-hero-launch-event-tomorrow/#commentsNo, that isn't your high school gym teacher (pictured right), that's Weezer front man Rivers Cuomo and he's joining with Nintendo to help launch the upcoming Pop-centric music title, Band Hero. Tomorrow, November 1, beginning at 11AM (EDT) at the Nintendo World Store in Rockefeller Plaza, players will have a chance to play both the Nintendo Wii and DS versions of the game before lining up for an exclusive autograph session with the singer from 3PM to 4PM.

Need more incentive to join the party? The first fifty players in line will walk away with a pre-release copy of the game to call their own and other random giveaways. Finally, you yourself can interrupt your sister's Taylor Swift karaoke sessions in homage to Kanye West's VMA performance. We call that, "emergent gameplay."



[Image Credit]

JoystiqNintendo World Store holding Band Hero launch event tomorrow originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 31 Oct 2009 23:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionBand Heroband-heroBandHeroGuitar-Herolaunch-partyneversoftnew-york-citynintendo-world-storeRed-Octanerivers-cuomovicarious-visionsweezerSat, 31 Oct 2009 23:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Marvel dates, prices upcoming Ultimate Alliance 2 DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/29/marvel-dates-prices-upcoming-ultimate-alliance-2-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/29/marvel-dates-prices-upcoming-ultimate-alliance-2-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/29/marvel-dates-prices-upcoming-ultimate-alliance-2-dlc/#comments Marvel has finally confirmed the price and release date for the first batch of DLC for Marvel: Ultimate Alliance 2. The pack will debut on November 5 for $9.99 on the PSN and 800 ($10) on Xbox 360. Included in the pack will be new simulator missions, boosts and, most important of all, three new characters. Namely, players will be able to get their hot little hands on Carnage, Psylocke and Cable.

In addition to the DLC pack, Juggernaut will also be released as a downloadable character. Originally, he was available only as a pre-order bonus but, starting November 5, anyone will be able to tell Charles to get out of their head for the price of $1.99 on PSN and 160 ($2) on Xbox 360.

JoystiqMarvel dates, prices upcoming Ultimate Alliance 2 DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Oct 2009 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisiondlcmarvelmarvel-ultimate-allianceMarvel-Ultimate-Alliance-2vicarious-visionsThu, 29 Oct 2009 18:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Band Hero's DS 'drum skin' in action]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/28/band-heros-ds-drum-skin-in-action/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/28/band-heros-ds-drum-skin-in-action/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/28/band-heros-ds-drum-skin-in-action/#commentsActivision is making people believe in the weird DS "drum skin" attachment for Band Hero the best way it knows how: by finding the most excitable shills it can in shopping centers, and putting the game in their hands. Predictably, they love it. We've never seen a mall so full of people willing to dance awkwardly to a DS game.

The buttons that go on top of the DS's buttons are only one of the selling points espoused in this trailer. Band Hero's extensive track list and flexible multiplayer (just like in the console version, you can combine instruments in any configuration) get lip service too. But they aren't as noticeable as that thing you put on the DS to play drums.

JoystiqBand Hero's DS 'drum skin' in action originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Oct 2009 21:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionband-herodrum-skinDSguitar-heromusicNintendovicarious-visionsWed, 28 Oct 2009 21:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Cable arrives from the future as a playable Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2 character]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/23/cable-arrives-from-the-future-as-a-playable-marvel-ultimate-alli/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/23/cable-arrives-from-the-future-as-a-playable-marvel-ultimate-alli/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/23/cable-arrives-from-the-future-as-a-playable-marvel-ultimate-alli/#commentsCable, the mutant with the amazing power to have a gun (he has other powers, but the gun one is the standby), appears in Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2 as an NPC, but the latest announced downloadable content for the game adds him as a playable character. Soon, you'll be able to have a big futuristic space-gun in the game as well! Activision didn't specify a time frame for this DLC. It's just "upcoming."

Video game fans might know Cable best as one of the cheapest characters in Marvel vs. Capcom 2. For the sake of this game, let's hope he's a bit less powerful now.

Gallery: Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2: Cable DLC

JoystiqCable arrives from the future as a playable Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2 character originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 Oct 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisioncablemarvel-ultimate-alliance-2Microsoftvicarious-visionsXbox-360Fri, 23 Oct 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Marvel.com spotlights upcoming Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2 sim missions, Psylocke]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/21/marvel-com-spotlights-upcoming-marvel-ultimate-alliance-2-sim-mi/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/21/marvel-com-spotlights-upcoming-marvel-ultimate-alliance-2-sim-mi/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/21/marvel-com-spotlights-upcoming-marvel-ultimate-alliance-2-sim-mi/#comments In a recent blog post, Marvel.com spotlights upcoming downloadable content for the superhero action title Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2, which will add simulation missions and the previously Wii- and PS2-exclusive character Psylocke to the game. According to Marvel Games Intern Randy Ma, the katana-wielding "ninja babe" -- his awkward words, not ours -- is a welcome addition to the HD version of the game, giving Jean Grey's mind powers "a run for her money."

In the spotlight, Marvel also reveals tidbits of information for two of the game's upcoming simulation missions. Insidious Alliance pits players against some of the universe's toughest bosses in an arena-style match and adds an achievement/trophy for defeating the mission without using any health canisters, perfect for gaming masochists. According to scenario designer Mark Webster, the mission Balance is an homage to classic 2.5D brawlers like (get this!) the original X-Men arcade titles. More DLC news is expected in the coming weeks.

[Update: Corrected quote attribution]

Gallery: Psylocke in Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2

JoystiqMarvel.com spotlights upcoming Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2 sim missions, Psylocke originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Oct 2009 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisiondlcdownloadable-contentmarvelmarvel-ultimate-alliance-2Microsoftmua2Psylockevicarious-visionsXbox-360Wed, 21 Oct 2009 19:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Band Hero demo walking on Xbox Live]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/15/band-hero-demo-walking-on-xbox-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/15/band-hero-demo-walking-on-xbox-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/15/band-hero-demo-walking-on-xbox-live/#comments The Major sends word that a Band Hero demo is now available on Xbox Live Marketplace. The demo allows players to try out three different songs in the new, family-friendly Hero title and offers both the Party Play mode and the new Sing-Along mode. The three playable songs are: That's right, Taylor Swift is right there. With some clever positioning and a few mirrors, you might be able to convince your daughter this is the full game, saving you the trouble of actually buying it. Good luck.

JoystiqBand Hero demo walking on Xbox Live originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Oct 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionband-herodemoguitar-heroMicrosoftneversoftvicarious-visionsxblmXbox-360xbox-liveThu, 15 Oct 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2's first DLC character is another Spider-Man]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/10/marvel-ultimate-alliance-2s-first-dlc-character-is-another-spid/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/10/marvel-ultimate-alliance-2s-first-dlc-character-is-another-spid/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/10/marvel-ultimate-alliance-2s-first-dlc-character-is-another-spid/#commentsWe can only imagine the meeting at Vicarious Visions where the development team behind Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2's DLC was arranged. "Well, we've already got Spider-Man and Venom, but we really feel like the game's still lacking in the Spider-Man spinoff department -- what about that other Spider-Man guy?" And thus, Carnage enters the fray as the game's first downloadable character.

Known for his stint in the super-violent Spider-Man mini-series "Maximum Carnage" and, um, that SNES game we played so long ago, Carnage will assuredly lend an over-the-top je ne sais quoi to MUA2's proceedings. We're not exactly sure what happens when you pair him with Spider-Man and Venom on screen, but we worry they might get eaten by Carnage, which could be really awkward.

Gallery: Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2 (Carnage DLC)

JoystiqMarvel Ultimate Alliance 2's first DLC character is another Spider-Man originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 10 Oct 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisioncarnagedigital-distributiondlcmarvelmarvel-ultimate-alliancemarvel-ultimate-alliance-2Microsoftpsnscreenshotstrailervicarious-visionsxblmXbox-360Sat, 10 Oct 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ms. Marvel lends her talents to Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/14/ms-marvel-lends-her-talents-to-marvel-ultimate-alliance-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/14/ms-marvel-lends-her-talents-to-marvel-ultimate-alliance-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/14/ms-marvel-lends-her-talents-to-marvel-ultimate-alliance-2/#commentsJoining confirmed characters Juggernaut, Penance, Songbird and Deadpool is the latest addition to the Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2 cast: Ms. Marvel. Activision just sent us a press release with some media showcasing the super-strong, super-fast super-blonde doing, well ... doing what looks like a lot of the same stuff she did in the first game. There's flying, there's lazerin' and plenty of dudes getting the business. Check out the video above to see her in action, then be sure to head into the gallery below for some in-game shots.

Gallery: Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2 (8.14.09)

JoystiqMs. Marvel lends her talents to Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 Aug 2009 22:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionmarvelmarvel-ultimate-alliancemarvel-ultimate-alliance-2Microsoftvicarious-visionsXbox-360Fri, 14 Aug 2009 22:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Activision clarifies Guitar Hero 5 song importing process]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/11/activision-clarifies-guitar-hero-5-song-importing-process/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/11/activision-clarifies-guitar-hero-5-song-importing-process/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/11/activision-clarifies-guitar-hero-5-song-importing-process/#comments Activision's announcement that songs from Guitar Hero World Tour and Smash Hits can be "imported" into Guitar Hero 5 (and Band Hero) had everyone thinking back to Rock Band 2's ability to rip songs right off the original Rock Band disc. As it turns out, in this case you won't need a disc at all.

We followed up with the publisher to find out exactly how the process works, as it had been referred to as both "importing" and "downloading" on an initial info sheet. The short answer: you'll be downloading new versions of your old songs. "Within the Guitar Hero 5 song import menu, gamers will key in their unique ID from the manual of the previous game, pay a small re-licensing fee and then be given access to download the available songs (like DLC) in a big batch," we were told this morning. That's for PS3 and 360; with the Wii version, the songs can be downloaded on a track-by-track basis.

"This is done to bring these songs up to date with enhanced Guitar Hero 5 features like band moments, expert+ drumming (new for World Tour songs) and the new vocal star power. The game reacts to these songs as though they were DLC and are available in the same play modes," Activision explained.

So, you just need the manual (and a decent internet connection). Unfortunately, this means that some second-hand copies of GHWT and Smash Hits can't be used for the process, as they'll either be missing the original game manual, or their previous owner already redeemed the 20-digit code. "These codes can be used only once," a PR rep revealed. "However, once you have downloaded the content, you are free to re-download it at anytime at no extra cost, if you need to make more hard drive or SD [card] space."

JoystiqActivision clarifies Guitar Hero 5 song importing process originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Aug 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcguitar-heroguitar-hero-5MicrosoftneversoftNintendovicarious-visionsWiiXbox-360Tue, 11 Aug 2009 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on: Guitar Hero 5]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/10/hands-on-guitar-hero-5/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/10/hands-on-guitar-hero-5/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/10/hands-on-guitar-hero-5/#comments We recently went hands, feet and ... voice-on with the latest Guitar Hero installment, and while we didn't come away with our world totally rocked by innovation, we can confirm that there's more to Guitar Hero 5 than just a new song list. It's a game that does more to challenge hardcore series veterans than Guitar Hero World Tour did, but its variety of new mechanics and modes make it clear that Neversoft (and Vicarious Visions on Wii) haven't forgotten those who just want to party.

Gallery: Guitar Hero 5

Continue reading Hands-on: Guitar Hero 5

JoystiqHands-on: Guitar Hero 5 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Aug 2009 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionactivision-blizzardguitar-heroguitar-hero-5MicrosoftneversoftNintendovicarious-visionsWiiXbox-360Mon, 10 Aug 2009 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on: Guitar Hero 5 'Roadie Battle' mode (Wii/DS)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/10/hands-on-guitar-hero-5-roadie-battle-mode-wii-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/10/hands-on-guitar-hero-5-roadie-battle-mode-wii-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/10/hands-on-guitar-hero-5-roadie-battle-mode-wii-ds/#comments
The biggest surprise of Activision's Guitar Hero 5 pre-launch event in San Francisco wasn't the addition of a hot band to the song list or something to do with DLC; it was a game mode exclusive to the Wii version called "Roadie Battle," which wound up being the most refreshing and fun addition to the series since ... ever.

In this guitar-only duel, two players can assist the pair battling on the big screen using Nintendo DS. Using DS Download Play, the Wii transfers the Roadie Battle "app" to both DS units (two human "roadies" aren't required; the CPU can fill in for the friend-deprived) and the (frantic) fun begins.

Gallery: Guitar Hero 5 (Wii)

Continue reading Hands-on: Guitar Hero 5 'Roadie Battle' mode (Wii/DS)

JoystiqHands-on: Guitar Hero 5 'Roadie Battle' mode (Wii/DS) originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Aug 2009 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionactivision-blizzarddownload-playDSguitar-heroguitar-hero-5Nintendoroadie-battlevicarious-visionsWiiMon, 10 Aug 2009 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[More on Guitar Hero 5 song import, DLC support (Band Hero will do it, too)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/10/more-on-guitar-hero-5-song-import-dlc-support-band-hero-will-d/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/10/more-on-guitar-hero-5-song-import-dlc-support-band-hero-will-d/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/10/more-on-guitar-hero-5-song-import-dlc-support-band-hero-will-d/#comments

Yes, Guitar Hero 5 is getting all modern-like and letting those who buy it -- and own other GH games -- access all those songs they already bought (on disc or in DLC form) without firing up another title. GH5 and the upcoming Band Hero will work with songs from the Guitar Hero World Tour and Guitar Hero Smash Hits game discs, along with GHWT DLC -- even on Wii.

PS3 and Xbox 360 owners who own GHWT will be able to download a free update from within GH5 that enables DLC backwards-compatibility (for 152 of 158 available tracks) and adds new GH5-specific features to their existing DLC. In order to rip the tracks from GHWT and SH discs will need to purchase what Activision says will be a "nominal re-licensing fee" and have the unique 20-digit code on the back of the games' manuals. As with Rock Band 2, all songs from the discs will be ripped to the systems' hard disks, but unwanted tracks can be individually deleted.

The process will be similar on Wii, with a couple noteworthy differences. First, DLC must be re-downloaded (to add new GH5 features, plus they'll sound better) either en mass or track-by-track to the Wii's internal memory or (thankfully) SD card. There'll also be an individual song copy option for importing disc-based songs from GHWT. Now to find out what those six DLC tracks that aren't supported are ...

JoystiqMore on Guitar Hero 5 song import, DLC support (Band Hero will do it, too) originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Aug 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionactivision-blizzarddlcguitar-heroguitar-hero-5MicrosoftNintendovicarious-visionsWiiXbox-360Mon, 10 Aug 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Guitar Hero 5 doesn't use in-game Friend Codes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/03/wii-guitar-hero-5-doesnt-use-in-game-friend-codes/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/03/wii-guitar-hero-5-doesnt-use-in-game-friend-codes/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/03/wii-guitar-hero-5-doesnt-use-in-game-friend-codes/#commentsAnd we thought the announcement of a returning feature from a previous game was exciting. In an interview with IGN, Vicarious Visions' Karthik Bala revealed that the Wii version of Guitar Hero 5 won't bother you for Friend Codes when you try to play online.

"For GH5, we've implemented support for your global Wii Friend Codes," Bala told IGN. "If you've got friends in your Wii address book, they'll automatically be added to your friends list in game, so you can easily connect up with them in online multiplayer games."

GH5 on Wii is now at "full feature parity" with the other versions, Bala said. It includes eight-player online play (no longer limited to two Wii consoles), and also adds a couple of Wii-exclusive features like a "Roadie Battle" mode and DS control of aspects of the (updated) Mii Freestyle.

JoystiqWii Guitar Hero 5 doesn't use in-game Friend Codes originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 03 Aug 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionfriend-codesguitar-heroguitar-hero-5Nintendovicarious-visionsWiiMon, 03 Aug 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[See Juggernaut smash, Penance blast in new Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2 media]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/29/see-juggernaut-smash-penance-blast-in-new-marvel-ultimate-allia/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/29/see-juggernaut-smash-penance-blast-in-new-marvel-ultimate-allia/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/29/see-juggernaut-smash-penance-blast-in-new-marvel-ultimate-allia/#comments Activision has dropped a whole heap of new Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2 media. Perhaps the beefiest of the bunch is the trailer above. While it contains some snippets we've seen in other trailers, there's plenty of new action in there too, including some sweet Venom and Gambit action.

After the break you'll find quick looks at Juggernaut and (exclusive character for Ultimate Alliance 2 pre-orders) Penance. You can also find a pair of Penance screenshots in the gallery below. Be sure to check out our recent hands-on impressions of the game too.

Gallery: Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2: Penance

Continue reading See Juggernaut smash, Penance blast in new Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2 media

JoystiqSee Juggernaut smash, Penance blast in new Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2 media originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Jul 2009 10:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionmarvel-ultimate-alliancemarvel-ultimate-alliance-2Microsoftvicarious-visionsXbox-360Wed, 29 Jul 2009 10:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Band Hero DS attachments revealed, gameplay details]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/23/band-hero-ds-attachments-revealed-gameplay-details/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/23/band-hero-ds-attachments-revealed-gameplay-details/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/23/band-hero-ds-attachments-revealed-gameplay-details/#comments
Click for life-size DS!
If you and your bandmates are ready to take your five-star show on the road, get ready to grab your DS Lites and crank the speakers up to elev ... well, push the little volume switch all the way to the right. Activision's Band Hero is coming to the DS, and includes four-player ad-hoc for full-band rocking. Players can use the On Tour guitar attachment, drop some vocals on the system's built-in mic, or use the drum skin attachment pictured above to supply the percussional accompanyment.

There's just one minor caveat -- if you've already upgraded to the DSi, then you're S.O.L. Not only will the guitar attachments not be able to plug into the GBA cartridge port that the system doesn't have, the drum skin won't fit on the handheld's svelte frame. Sorry, early adopters!

JoystiqBand Hero DS attachments revealed, gameplay details originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Jul 2009 13:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionband-heroDSNintendoperipheralrhythmvicarious-visionsThu, 23 Jul 2009 13:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on: Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/23/hands-on-marvel-ultimate-alliance-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/23/hands-on-marvel-ultimate-alliance-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/23/hands-on-marvel-ultimate-alliance-2/#comments First, let's get the latest playable character reveals out of the way: Jean Grey and Gambit. There. That was easy, if not the best-kept secret. What is a surprise, though, is that I was able to clearly distinguish Jean from the other on-screen heroes and mess of beaten-down baddies as I stood a distant twenty feet from a Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2 demo at a recent Activision games showcase. As I approached, I was amazed by the difference three years makes. MUA2, at least on Xbox 360 (and PS3, presumably), is a hot dayam-better looking game than its predecessor. This is not a last-generation production brushed with high-res assets.

Vicarious Visions proves a worthy successor to Raven Software, taking over lead development of the franchise -- and finally ending its streak of assignments to Activision's lesser ports. While it was evident the first time we played MUA2, it's worth reiterating that the game's camera angle has been adjusted to provide a closer perspective of the foreground and more distant view of the background. I could identify Jean from across the room because the character models are larger and more detailed. Additionally, updates to Vicarious' Alchemy game engine have added Havok physics and more on-screen enemies. While the grandiose (super) heroism has been amplified by newer technology, MUA2's style is still very much that of a Saturday morning cartoon.

Gallery: Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2

Continue reading Hands-on: Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2

JoystiqHands-on: Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Jul 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionmarvelmarvel-ultimate-alliancemarvel-ultimate-alliance-2Microsoftvicarious-visionsXbox-360Thu, 23 Jul 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pre-order Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2, get the Juggernaut]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/20/pre-order-marvel-ultimate-alliance-2-get-the-juggernaut/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/20/pre-order-marvel-ultimate-alliance-2-get-the-juggernaut/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/20/pre-order-marvel-ultimate-alliance-2-get-the-juggernaut/#comments
In revealing the latest Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2 character, Activision has also revealed its pre-order bonus. As part of an ever growing trend, Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2 will award pre-ordering players with exclusive in-game content. In this case, it's the Juggernaut (obligatory NSFW YouTube link), and he's only available to those that pre-order the game from GameStop. He's also only available on the Xbox 360 and PS3 versions, according to GameStop's website, so Wii and PS2 owners will never know his sweet, crushing embrace.

If you'd like a closer look at his glory, you can check out yet another 3D screenshot of the game -- from the future, we presume -- after the break.

Continue reading Pre-order Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2, get the Juggernaut

JoystiqPre-order Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2, get the Juggernaut originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Jul 2009 22:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionmarvelmarvel-ultimate-alliancemarvel-ultimate-alliance-2Microsoftvicarious-visionsXbox-360Mon, 20 Jul 2009 22:15:00 EST<![CDATA[The future is now: Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2 screens in 3D]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/16/the-future-is-now-marvel-ultimate-alliance-2-screens-in-3d/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/16/the-future-is-now-marvel-ultimate-alliance-2-screens-in-3d/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/16/the-future-is-now-marvel-ultimate-alliance-2-screens-in-3d/#comments
Normally we don't get excited for new screens in the "Holy S! It's the future in front of my eyes!" kind of way, but friends, today is an exception. Vicarious Visions has posted its second 3D screenshot of upcoming superhero extravaganza, Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2 (both found after the break) on its website and, to be honest, it's really impressive, allowing you to spin the full image in three dimensions.

The newest one features Deadpool leaping into the air and firing dual pistols at a bunch of fools, while the first (and even more impressive) screen has Thor combining with The Human Torch's powers to create some form of fire tornado. That's right -- a fire tornado. And no, things don't get much sweeter than that.

[Thanks, Wombat!]

Gallery: Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2

Continue reading The future is now: Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2 screens in 3D

JoystiqThe future is now: Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2 screens in 3D originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 16 Jun 2009 16:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionDSmarvelmarvel-ultimate-alliance-2Microsoftmua2Nintendoscreenshotsvicarious-visionsWiiXbox-360Tue, 16 Jun 2009 16:10:00 EST<![CDATA[See Guitar Hero On Tour: Modern Hits ... and not some guy playing it]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/09/see-guitar-hero-on-tour-modern-hits-and-not-some-guy-playin/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/09/see-guitar-hero-on-tour-modern-hits-and-not-some-guy-playin/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/09/see-guitar-hero-on-tour-modern-hits-and-not-some-guy-playin/#comments dfdIn the trailer for the first Guitar Hero On Tour demonstrated how the game's portability made it easy for people to "perform" anywhere, in essence adding portability to the social Guitar Hero experience, something that is helped by the song sharing. However, there's one major problem with advertising the game in this way: it shows customers what they look like playing Guitar Hero on the DS.

This trailer for Guitar Hero On Tour: Modern Hits doesn't feature any of that. In fact, the camera's so tightly focused on the screen that you can barely see the player embarrassing himself.

Gallery: Guitar Hero On Tour: Modern Hits (DS)



JoystiqSee Guitar Hero On Tour: Modern Hits ... and not some guy playing it originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Jun 2009 16:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActivisionGH-On-Tour-Modern-HitsGuitar-HeroGuitar-Hero-On-Tour-Modern-HitsMusicVicarious-VisionsTue, 09 Jun 2009 16:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Deadpool returns for Ultimate Alliance 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/19/deadpool-returns-for-ultimate-alliance-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/19/deadpool-returns-for-ultimate-alliance-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/19/deadpool-returns-for-ultimate-alliance-2/#comments
The "Merc with a Mouth," otherwise known as Deadpool, has received his official in-game reveal for Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2 (and no, it's not the movie version of Deadpool). The official MUA 2 website has posted a developer diary in which the devs discuss what went into adding Deadpool into the game, including some details on his powers and fusion moves.

Deadpool will be able to utilize swords, grenades, teleportation and, if the above image is any indication, he also has pistols that fire bullets nearly as big as his head. That's intimidating no matter how you slice it. Check out some new images in the gallery below.

[Via Marvel.com. Thanks, The Dark Wayne]

Gallery: Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2: Deadpool

JoystiqDeadpool returns for Ultimate Alliance 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 May 2009 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionDSmarvelmarvel-ultimate-alliance-2MicrosoftNintendovicarious-visionsWiiXbox-360Tue, 19 May 2009 23:59:00 EST