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[How Viva Pinata's Choclodocus was reverse engineered]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/07/how-viva-pinatas-choclodocus-was-reverse-engineered/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/07/how-viva-pinatas-choclodocus-was-reverse-engineered/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/07/how-viva-pinatas-choclodocus-was-reverse-engineered/#comments
 You could be forgiven for not staying abreast of news related to the now year-and-a-half-old Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise. Heck, we're almost kind of relieved; you have no idea what a hassle it is to dig our "Ñ" key out of the storage shed. But scattered across the globe is a resolute fan base that's unwilling to let the game drift off to the Great Piñata Garden in the Sky. When developer Rare ran out of the Piñata Vision barcodes that injected new creatures and items into the game, the PinataIsland.info community sprung into action.

Here, community admin Jim McQuillan tells it better than us:

"Our members noticed that there were still of Piñata Vision cards that weren't available such as the Choclodocus, the big daddy of all piñatas. These members reverse engineered the barcodes on the Piñata Vision cards to discover how they worked. By comparing different species of pinatas and attempting to fill in the gaps in the barcode of the choclodocus, they eventually found success! In simple terms you can think of this like Jurassic Park where they took the dinosaur DNA and mixed it the DNA from other species of animals to fill in the gaps. It's just that our dinosaur happens to be a Choclodocus pinata instead."

Finally, the fruits of their labor, the Choclodocus Egg Pinata Vision Card, is available for your enjoyment. Just don't tell piñata Jeff Goldblum what they've wrought.

JoystiqHow Viva Pinata's Choclodocus was reverse engineered originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 07 May 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcMicrosoftpinata-visionrareviva-pinataviva-pinata-2viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseXbox-360Fri, 07 May 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Have a Jukebox for your Viva Pinata garden]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/24/have-a-jukebox-for-your-viva-pinata-garden/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/24/have-a-jukebox-for-your-viva-pinata-garden/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/24/have-a-jukebox-for-your-viva-pinata-garden/#commentsFiled under:


Rare has a pretty neat promotion lined up for the holidays this year. First, the company is offering Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise players a new jukebox to decorate their in-game gardens. To grab the jukebox, simply scan the Piñata Vision Card found after the break. Of course, the jukebox isn't just for decoration. From now until December 10, Piñata Island will be conducting a poll to uncover the top 10 romance dance songs. Once the songs are decided, Rare will release one a day as special Piñata Vision Cards. Don't worry if a jukebox isn't your thing, as Rare will be releasing other special cards throughout December.

Continue reading Have a Jukebox for your Viva Pinata garden

JoystiqHave a Jukebox for your Viva Pinata garden originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 24 Nov 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mgsmicrosoft-game-studiosrareviva-pinataviva-pinata-2viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseMon, 24 Nov 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview -- Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/03/metareview-viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/03/metareview-viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/03/metareview-viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-xbox-360/#commentsFiled under: , ,

In the terrible glut expected this holiday season, it's good to see Microsoft and Rare bringing a piñata to the party. According to reviews, Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise doesn't seem to bring anything radically new to the fiesta, but it does make significant improvements to the formula introduced in the original. If you didn't like the original, it appears you can just move on. But, if you found the sweet candy fix of Viva Piñata addictive the first time, it looks like you'll be in for another treat.
  • 1Up (A): "If you hated the original, Trouble in Paradise isn't going to change your opinion. If, however, you somehow missed out completely on the piñata party the first time around, I implore you to check it out now -- it's certainly much deeper and more addictive than its playful visuals would lead you to believe."
  • Game Informer (83/100): "Keeping your piñatas happy can still be monotonous in task, but the expanded content and finely made multiplayer relieves some of the repetition that plagued the first game. Viva Piñata retains its child-like charm, but the content is layered with deep strategies and entertaining gameplay that can suck anyone's life away."
  • GamePro (80/100): "There are also some minor additions that attempt to sweeten the pot but they don't add too much. The new trick stick, which allows you to teach pinata tricks, and a wide range of toys are fun to play with, though. There's also support for the Xbox Live Vision camera which allows you to scan in special pinata cards, but it's a gimmick at best. Still, despite some irritating design elements, Trouble in Paradise is a fun game that retains the charm of the first Viva Pinata."
  • GameDaily (80/100): "Rare could've easily slapped a couple of minor changes into this game and given us an expansion pack. Instead, Viva Pinata: Trouble In Paradise offers enough to make it a worthy sequel. It'll be a little too cute for some, but others will see past the adorable exterior and find the delicious treats inside, just like a real pinata."

Gallery: Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise

JoystiqMetareview -- Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Sep 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>metareviewmicrosoftrareviva-pinataviva-pinata-2viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseXbox-360Wed, 03 Sep 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Viva Pinata 2 community website and UK treasure hunt [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/02/viva-pinata-2-community-website-and-treasure-hunt/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/02/viva-pinata-2-community-website-and-treasure-hunt/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/02/viva-pinata-2-community-website-and-treasure-hunt/#commentsFiled under: ,


Update: After a little digging, we've been informed that the piñata hunt is for the UK version of Xbox.com only. Of course, there's nothing stopping North American gamers from visiting the UK site...

In celebration of the release of Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise, Rare has informed us that the brand new community website will be launching today at midnight PST. The community website will allow gamers to share photos of their gardens and upload any Piñata Vision cards they have created. Also, Viva PiñataAceyBongos (think of him as the European version of Major Nelson) is launching a piñata hunt on Xbox.com. Starting Friday, piñata eggs will be hidden on Xbox.com. Mousing over them will cause a piñata to pop out. Clicking on the piñata will open a PDF of a Piñata Vision card that can then be imported into their gardens. Then you're just stuck with the (somewhat awkward) choice of either printing it out or holding your Vision camera up to the screen.

We'd opt for the first choice, especially if you're at work. After all, people might suspect something if you drag your entire entertainment center into your cubicle.

JoystiqViva Pinata 2 community website and UK treasure hunt [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Sep 2008 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mgsmicrosoft-game-studiosrareviva-pinataviva-pinata-2Tue, 02 Sep 2008 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Shipping this week: Oh no you didn't edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/01/shipping-this-week-oh-no-you-didnt-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/01/shipping-this-week-oh-no-you-didnt-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/01/shipping-this-week-oh-no-you-didnt-edition/#commentsFiled under:

Have you been dreaming of an open world game with massive firepower and fully destructible environments without all the pesky legal repercussions in GTAIV? Mercenaries 2 just might be your game. You get to blow things up ... a lot ... with cruise missiles. Let's not forget online co-op either, which means you can blow things up with cruise missiles ... with friends.

As though Mercenaries 2 wasn't enough, we also have all of these:
Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise? Infinite Undiscovery? FaceBreaker? Yeah, so apparently "Holiday 2008" is already upon us.

JoystiqShipping this week: Oh no you didn't edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 01 Sep 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>facebreakerinfinite-undiscoverynfl-head-coach-09rapala-fishing-frenzyshipping-this-weekviva-pinata-2warhammerMon, 01 Sep 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rare says no to Viva Pinata 2 DLC, yes to 'something new']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/29/rare-says-no-to-viva-pinata-2-dlc-yes-to-something-new/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/29/rare-says-no-to-viva-pinata-2-dlc-yes-to-something-new/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/29/rare-says-no-to-viva-pinata-2-dlc-yes-to-something-new/#commentsFiled under: ,

In a recent live chat with Rare devotees, Rare's Justin Cook made it clear that there are no plans for any Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise downloadable content. Furthermore, Cook says that Rare is "taking a break" from the Viva Piñata franchise in order to "make something new." Just what this something new is, Cook failed to elaborate. The "new" part makes us suspect it won't be a return to Rare's other franchises like Perfect Dark or Kameo, but there's no way to be sure. Cook added that even Rare's plans regarding another Viva Piñata could change, so we'll just have to wait and see. Still, is it too much to ask for a new Battletoads?

Be sure to hit the source link to read the whole chat. It covers plenty of nitty-gritty details in VP2.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqRare says no to Viva Pinata 2 DLC, yes to 'something new' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Aug 2008 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcrareviva-pinataviva-pinata-2viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseFri, 29 Aug 2008 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Rare: No plans for Viva Pinata DLC, working on 'something new']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/29/rare-no-plans-for-viva-pinata-dlc-working-on-something-new/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/29/rare-no-plans-for-viva-pinata-dlc-working-on-something-new/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/29/rare-no-plans-for-viva-pinata-dlc-working-on-something-new/#commentsFiled under:

Worried that game dev Rare lost its knack for shooting stuff, taking a prolonged three-game detour through kiddie-town? First Viva Piñata, now Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise and Banjo Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts, but what of the Goldeneyes and the Perfect Darks and the Conkers? In a (lengthy!) Q&A with Rare's Justin Cook, Trouble in Paradise's lead designer, says the team doesn't have "any plans for DLC" and "are taking a break from VP for a while to make something new."

Of course, Mr. Cook doesn't elaborate on what that "something new" may be, but it would appear we can safely cross "Viva Pinata DLC" off the list of anything else possible in the world. The rest of the three-page interview is chockablock with details on the new game so, if you're really curious about those new pinata races, hit up that Source link.

JoystiqRare: No plans for Viva Pinata DLC, working on 'something new' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Aug 2008 10:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DLCMicrosoft-Games-StudiosRareViva-Pinata-2Viva-Pinava-Trouble-in-ParadiseXbox-360Fri, 29 Aug 2008 10:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Making of the Viva Pinata BelieVe videos]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/22/video-making-of-the-viva-pinata-believe-videos/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/22/video-making-of-the-viva-pinata-believe-videos/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/22/video-making-of-the-viva-pinata-believe-videos/#commentsFiled under: ,


Some of you may have had your fill of the Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise BelieVe video series, which is sorta understandable. But, being the hardcore Viva Piñata fanboys that we are, we can never have enough. That's why when we came across the latest BelieVe video, we had no doubt in our minds that we wanted to share it. Though, in all actuality, it isn't a new video, it's more of a "making of" behind the scenes look at how the videos were created. Simply put, to create a Viva Piñata BelieVe video all you need is a few BK toys, some chicken wire, newspaper, boxes, styrofoam and a healthy dose of creativity. And it's that creativity bit that gets us every time.

JoystiqVideo: Making of the Viva Pinata BelieVe videos originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Aug 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>raretrouble-in-paradiseviva-pinataviva-pinata-2viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseFri, 22 Aug 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Viva Pinata 2 demo in certification, releasing soon]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/viva-pinata-2-demo-in-certification-releasing-soon/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/viva-pinata-2-demo-in-certification-releasing-soon/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/viva-pinata-2-demo-in-certification-releasing-soon/#commentsFiled under: , ,

In an interview with Eurogamer, Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise lead programmer Will Bryan confirmed details regarding a Trouble in Paradise demo releasing to the Xbox Live Marketplace saying that it will release "as soon as possible."

According to Bryan, the demo is finished and is currently in the hands of Microsoft's certification team. Then, once it's approved by cert, it will be released to the Xbox Live masses. As far as demo specifics go, we're being told that it'll include 25 minutes of gameplay from the core game including a few Live features and the "Just For Fun" game mode. Sadly, the demo will not include any co-op support, local or Live, so we'll just have to imagine playing with three other piñata gardeners. Imagination FTW!

JoystiqViva Pinata 2 demo in certification, releasing soon originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Aug 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>raretrouble-in-paradiseviva-pinata-2viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradisexblmWed, 20 Aug 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Viva Pinata 2's four player co-op isn't gimped!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/15/viva-pinata-2s-four-player-co-op-isnt-gimped/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/15/viva-pinata-2s-four-player-co-op-isnt-gimped/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/15/viva-pinata-2s-four-player-co-op-isnt-gimped/#commentsFiled under: ,


As was semi confirmed via some leaky achievements, Rare has informed us that four player online co-op will be a part of Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise and (best part) it won't be gimped!

Just like local co-op, four player online co-op will allow players to join the "host" in their garden and only their garden. Meaning that everyone who enters the a garden will only make changes or do damage to the host's garden while having no effect on their game saves. All four players will have the ability to interact with the garden and have access to normal player tools. Simply put, there's no co-op gimpage! Not only will players be able to visit and play in eachother's gardens, but everyone can partake in 2D top down races, competitions and win monthly leaderboard prizes. It's like the online Viva Piñata experience we've always wanted! Also, we've been told to expect much more Trouble in Paradise info (including more co-op specifics) to be released during Leipzig, so keep your eyes peeled.

To recap: Trouble in Paradise will sport local AND four player Xbox Live co-op where players can interact with and edit the host's garden with access to all normal in-game tools. Yup, we like!

JoystiqViva Pinata 2's four player co-op isn't gimped! originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Aug 2008 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>raretrouble-in-paradiseviva-pinataviva-pinata-2viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseFri, 15 Aug 2008 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Trapping pinatas in Viva Pinata 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/14/video-trapping-pinatas-in-viva-pinata-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/14/video-trapping-pinatas-in-viva-pinata-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/14/video-trapping-pinatas-in-viva-pinata-2/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Brand new Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise media released earlier today showing off some gameplay and how much the game looks, plays and feels just like the original Viva Pinata. Not that that is a bad thing, really, it's just an observation. Though, we can't help but say it mirrors its predecessor in every way, but is more refined, perfected and feature-rich. In other words, it's what Viva Piñata should have been, four player online co-op and all. Give the videos (one embedded after the break) a watch, take in all the piñata love and see how to trap pinatas. Yup, in Viva 2 you can box up those piñatas who are unlucky enough to be attracted to your garden by a vegetable. How devilish!

Continue reading Video: Trapping pinatas in Viva Pinata 2

JoystiqVideo: Trapping pinatas in Viva Pinata 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Aug 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>raretrouble-in-paradiseviva-pinata-2viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseThu, 14 Aug 2008 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise parties with four player online co-op]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/11/viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-parties-with-four-player-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/11/viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-parties-with-four-player-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/11/viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-parties-with-four-player-online/#commentsFiled under: ,

If those pesky Achievements for the game are to be believed, Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise will support four player online co-op. 360sync.com lists all the "bleep bloops" for the upcoming candy-filled animal simulator and one 10-point achievement, named "Full House," comes with with the description: Play 4 Player Online Co-op for 1 hour.

We're still not exactly sure what co-op entails, as there also Achievements listed for playing two player co-op, both online and off, for one hour. We should get more details soon before VP: TiP starts getting whacked at retail on Sept. 2.

[Via X3F]

JoystiqViva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise parties with four player online co-op originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Aug 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>four-player-coopmicrosoftrareviva-pinataviva-pinata-2viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseXbox-360Mon, 11 Aug 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise, now sporting 4 player ONLINE co-op]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/10/viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-now-sporting-4-player-online-c/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/10/viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-now-sporting-4-player-online-c/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/10/viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-now-sporting-4-player-online-c/#commentsFiled under: ,

The achievements for Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise have just made their way onto the interwebs and among the traditional gardening achievements we spotted an extremely interesting and feature revealing "Full House" achievement. This 10 Gamerscore earning "Full House" achievement pretty much confirms co-op details we never knew about Trouble in Paradise, reading "Play 4 Player Online Co-op for 1 hour". That's right, the once thought to be only two player local co-op Trouble in Paradise will now sport four player online co-op! That is, if the achievements can be trusted. We already have our Vision camera warmed up and ready to go, bring on the four player online piñata fun!

JoystiqViva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise, now sporting 4 player ONLINE co-op originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 10 Aug 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementsraretrouble-in-paradiseviva-pinata-2viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseSun, 10 Aug 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[E308: Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise screens]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/e308-viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/e308-viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/e308-viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-screens/#commentsFiled under:

We kinda feel bad. When Viva Piñata came up during the Microsoft Press Conference we pretty much skipped over it to report on the new hawtness but we wanted to publicly say that we're excited for the game. If you're put of by the art style of the game -- or just think you're too 1337 to play it -- you might want to take a look at Viva Piñata: Trouble In Paradise. Adding more content to its original vision, Viva Piñata: Trouble In Paradise is a definitive version of sorts. Sporting addictive and fun gameplay and a ton of extras we recommend you take a look at Viva Piñata: TiP when it lands in stores this September. We've added the latest images in the gallery below for your viewing pleasure.

JoystiqE308: Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise screens originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Jul 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>E3e3-08e3-2008e308viva-pinata-2viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseTue, 15 Jul 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Viva Pinata sequel busts open in early September]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/viva-pinata-sequel-busts-open-in-early-september/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/viva-pinata-sequel-busts-open-in-early-september/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/viva-pinata-sequel-busts-open-in-early-september/#commentsFiled under: ,

All you Nerds worried about wasting Mounds of time waiting for Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise should stop being such Airheads. The anticipated sequel will be Star-bursting onto the scene on Sept. 2 in North and Latin America and Sept. 5 in Europe and the UK. That leaves plenty of Paydays for you Smarties to save up the $59.99 you need to buy it. That's not a Whopper of a price ... much less than the 100 Grands it would take to travel to ... Whatchamacallit ... Mars.

You see, piñatas are filled with candy ...

[Via X3F]

JoystiqViva Pinata sequel busts open in early September originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Jul 2008 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BreakingNewsmicrosoftRarerelease-dateTrouble-in-ParadiseViva-PinataViva-Pinata-2Viva-Pinata-Trouble-in-ParadiseXbox-360Thu, 03 Jul 2008 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Viva Pinata sequel will release the first week of Sept]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/viva-pinata-sequel-will-release-the-first-week-of-sept/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/viva-pinata-sequel-will-release-the-first-week-of-sept/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/viva-pinata-sequel-will-release-the-first-week-of-sept/#commentsFiled under:

Earlier today, Microsoft narrowed down Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise's oh so vague "September 2008" release to actual date dates. Pending any unforeseen delays caused by uncooperative Horstachios or Buzzlegums (they can and do get out of hand), that release date will be September 2nd for those in North America and for Europeans, a few days later, on September 5th. So, look forward to hopefully to a cheaper and online co-op enabled (fingers crossed) Viva Pinata experience the first week of September! Joy!

JoystiqViva Pinata sequel will release the first week of Sept originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Jul 2008 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mgsraretrouble-in-paradiseviva-pinata-2viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseThu, 03 Jul 2008 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Banjo and Viva sequels only $39.99 at Gamestop?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/banjo-and-viva-sequels-only-39-99-at-gamestop/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/banjo-and-viva-sequels-only-39-99-at-gamestop/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/banjo-and-viva-sequels-only-39-99-at-gamestop/#commentsFiled under:


This generation of games has seen the average price for a title rise to $59.99, so when a game looks to possibly be released at a price point lower than that, we take notice. Over at Gamestop's website, Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise and Banjo Kazooie: Nuts and Bolts are both currently listed at the price of $39.99. Now while this could just be a simple error (Amazon has them both at $59.99), we'd like to hope that there's more going on ...

The rest of this is only speculation, but there are a few connections between the two games. They're both from Rare and so they're both Microsoft first party games. Now it could just be wishful thinking, but we'd like to hope that Microsoft might be willing taking a bit of a profit hit on these two to get them to be must-buys for a larger audience of gamers (read: kids).

JoystiqBanjo and Viva sequels only $39.99 at Gamestop? originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Jul 2008 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banjo-kazooie-3banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-boltsmicrosoftmicrosoft-game-studiosrareviva-pinata-2viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseThu, 03 Jul 2008 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Trouble in Paradise trailer teaches us evil]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/trouble-in-paraidise-trailer-teaches-us-evil/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/trouble-in-paraidise-trailer-teaches-us-evil/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/trouble-in-paraidise-trailer-teaches-us-evil/#commentsFiled under: ,

Rare just released a new Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise trailer today and even though we don't get to see any in-game goodness, we do get to be completely entertained. You'll have to jump over to Eurogamer to watch the vid, but it's worth it because you'll get to watch Professor Pester detail his evil plan to his fellow henchmen and hilarity ensues. Hmm, now after watching the trailer we have a mad jonesing for some desert dessert and chilled penguin on a stick ... yummm!

JoystiqTrouble in Paradise trailer teaches us evil originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Jun 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>raretrouble-in-paradiseviva-pinataviva-pinata-2viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseTue, 10 Jun 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[2008 Yearbook: Microsoft Game Studios]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/23/yearbook-2008-microsoft-game-studios/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/23/yearbook-2008-microsoft-game-studios/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/23/yearbook-2008-microsoft-game-studios/#commentsFiled under:


After a solid year for the Xbox 360 in 2007 many thought the system could never showcase the same amount of quality exclusives in a single year.

In the 2008 Microsoft Game Studios Yearbook, we've compiled a list of this year's graduating class with a detailed account of each title's current status and the stories surrounding them.

From heartbreaking cancellations, surprise feature announcements and expected sequels, the 2008 MGS Yearbook is filled with fun facts and information on your soon-to-be favorite titles. Also included in the yearbook are special joke awards given to each title that releases in 2008 that poke fun at the details most commonly argued about in the comments.

From Ninja Gaiden II to Alan Wake, the 2008 Microsoft Game Studios Yearbook will have something for everyone.

Ladies and gentlemen allow us to introduce the 2008 Microsoft Game Studios graduating class ...

Joystiq2008 Yearbook: Microsoft Game Studios originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 May 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2008-releases2009-releasesalan-wakebanjo-kazooiebanjo-kazooie-3banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-boltsbungiebungie-studioscanceledcancelledcliff-bleszinskicliffybcrypticcryptic-studiosdennis-dyackepic-gamesfable-2featurefrank-o-connorfrankiegears-of-wargears-of-war-2gowgow2halohalo-3halo-warsjoystiqfeaturesmarvelmarvel-universe-onlinemicrosoft-game-studiosngng2ninja-gaiden-2peter-jacksonpeter-jackson-projectpeter-molyneuxremedysilicon-knightstomonobu-itagakitoo-humanunreal-engine-3viva-pinataviva-pinata-2viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseyearbook-08Fri, 23 May 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Peep this: Viva Pinata card]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/peep-this-viva-pinata-card/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/peep-this-viva-pinata-card/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/peep-this-viva-pinata-card/#commentsFiled under:


Don't expect to find these Viva Piñata cards in stores; this guy above is just a mockup, made specially for the folks at Microsoft's Spring Showcase yesterday. Hold it up to the camera and Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise will process that barcode on the right side, plopping the character into your game.

The feature, while impressive (and early), was temperamental in our demo; however, when working correctly, it will let users share their piñatas by creating a card through the game's website. The camera is surface agnostic so you can print the card out, or stick the image on a forum, save it on your iPod, or just email it to your entire address book (that always goes over well). Check out a shot of the process in action after the break.

Continue reading Peep this: Viva Pinata card

JoystiqPeep this: Viva Pinata card originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 May 2008 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>MGSRareViva-Pinata-2Viva-Pinata-Trouble-in-ParadiseXbox-360Wed, 14 May 2008 19:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 Spring Showcase impressions roundup]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/xbox-360-spring-showcase-impressions-roundup/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/xbox-360-spring-showcase-impressions-roundup/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/xbox-360-spring-showcase-impressions-roundup/#commentsFiled under:

Our friends at Xbox 360 Fanboy are having a ball at the Xbox 360 Spring Showcase, sending word of their hands-on experiences with the console's upcoming lineup. (Update: Now with more Human.) Check out their impressions below:
Impressions: Ninja Gaiden II
It's unapologetically hardcore, and we wouldn't have it any other way.
Impressions: Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts
There is good reason that Rare did not decide to title the game Banjo Threeie. It's something new.
Impressions: Penny Arcade Adventures
On the Rain-Slick Precipice of Darkness. Turns out the game is a meld of Japanese RPG and old-school adventure.

Continue reading Xbox 360 Spring Showcase impressions roundup

JoystiqXbox 360 Spring Showcase impressions roundup originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 May 2008 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banjo-kazooiebanjo-kazooie-nuts-and-boltsmicrosoftmicrosoft-gamers-day-2008ninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iipenny-arcadepenny-arcade-adventurestoo-humanviva-pinataviva-pinata-2viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseXbox-360Wed, 14 May 2008 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[X3F Impressions - Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/x3f-impressions-viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/x3f-impressions-viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/x3f-impressions-viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise/#commentsFiled under:

The first Viva Piñata was a somewhat divisive game. The visual look turned off many initial players, but those who stayed found an engaging and deep sim. Unfortunately, those two things were usually at odds with one another and given that it was a new IP it perhaps wasn't best to turn away the player base that was most likely to get into the deeper side of the game. So for Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise, Rare is looking to somehow split the bar, raising it for the hardcore and lowering it for those who are in fact pulled in by the game's look.

Like many sequels, VP2 isn't much different in its basic mechanics and most of its changes consist of refinements and streamlining that allows for the gameplay to pass much faster and in many new ways. Things like co-op, the camera support, and the UI refinement all make the rest of the game's additions that much easier to use.

Hit the Pinata after the break. Get it? We're a scream.

Continue reading X3F Impressions - Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise

JoystiqX3F Impressions - Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 May 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamers-day-08joystiqfeaturesmicrosoft-gamers-dayviva-pinata-2viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradisex3f-impressionsWed, 14 May 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Would You Rather ... Demo Edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/would-you-rather-demo-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/would-you-rather-demo-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/would-you-rather-demo-edition/#commentsFiled under: ,


In our continuing effort to bring you fresh and interesting content, X3F presents Would You Rather ... a weekly feature that asks you the hard questions. The point? If you had to choose one or the other, which would you go for?

This week in WUR we're taking a different approach. With so many demos playable at Mircosoft's press event for upcoming Xbox 360 titles, we wanted to know which one you craved the most.

If Microsoft was to release only one demo today for you to play, which one would it be? Remember, this list only includes items that were playable at Microsoft's San Fransisco event so Gears of War 2 and Fable 2 aren't options. While Ninja Gaiden 2 might be the favorite, we wonder who out there is anticipating more hot Piñata action.


Feel free to share the reasons for your vote in the comments. We'll share the results of the poll during the next edition of Would You Rather ... which hits X3F every Wednesday.

Last weeks WUR results can be find after the jump ... take a look!

Continue reading Would You Rather ... Demo Edition

JoystiqWould You Rather ... Demo Edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 May 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banjo-kazooie-nuts-a...demosninja-gaiden-2too-humanviva-pinata-2wurWed, 14 May 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise screens]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/13/viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/13/viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/13/viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-screens/#commentsFiled under:


click to enlarge

Curious to see what sort of "trouble" is brewing in Viva Piñata's candy-colored paradise? The six screenshots Microsoft released this morning don't offer many clues (Graveyards? Volcanoes? Evil tiki guys?) but should be enough to whet your appetite if you're eager to get back to Piñata Island.

Gallery: Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise

JoystiqViva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise screens originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 May 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>MGSMicrosoft-Gamers-Day-2008RareViva-Pinata-2Viva-Pinata-Trouble-in-ParadiseXbox-360Tue, 13 May 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise adds camera, co-op, September release]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/13/viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-adds-camera-co-op-september-r/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/13/viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-adds-camera-co-op-september-r/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/13/viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-adds-camera-co-op-september-r/#commentsFiled under:

Microsoft's embargoes are finally up and, well, there's not much we didn't already know. Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise - the sequel to the "sleeper hit" - now has a release date of "September" as well as some new details, including a "Just for Fun" setting that makes it easier to hop right in, a new co-op setting, as well as a unique use of the Xbox Live Vision cam.

VP: TIP incorporates cameras in two unique ways. Looking out: you'll be able to use the Xbox Live Vision camera to take pictures of physical cards (think Eye of Judgment), unlocking new pinatas, building, or abilities (Rare apparently created a moose whose nose gets red only around Christmas time). Looking in: You'll be able to use your own digital camera to take a picture of your creations to share with friends over email, in a forum, wherever. While Microsoft isn't sure if they'll be releasing packs on their own, think of this feature as your own card generator; forget those pricey little packs. Anyone with a Vision Cam can snap a pic of your "card" and unlock it for themselves.

We'll bring you our impressions when we get a look at the game later today.

Gallery: Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise



Read - Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise press release
Read - Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise Preview
Read - NeoGAF VP2 camera info

JoystiqViva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise adds camera, co-op, September release originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 May 2008 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BreakingNewsMGSMicrosoft-Gamers-Day-2008RareViva-PinataViva-Pinata-2Viva-Pinata-Trouble-in-ParadiseXbox-360Tue, 13 May 2008 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise confirmed, hits retail this September]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/13/viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-confirmed-hits-retail-this-sep/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/13/viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-confirmed-hits-retail-this-sep/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/13/viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-confirmed-hits-retail-this-sep/#commentsFiled under:

With numerous leaks behind us, Microsoft has just confirmed that Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise is really real and is scheduled to release sometime this September.

The sequel to the cult-hit Viva Piñata aims at building upon the piñata managing experience by adding a plethora of new features. In Trouble in Paradise, gamers will encounter over 100 different piñatas, including 32 new ones that you'll be able to teach tricks to and purchase toys for. Not only that, but Trouble in Paradise will add the ability to change the weather, hunt for rare piñatas and will introduce new game modes including free-play as well as local co-op. The Vision camera will also be utilized in the sequel by adding the ability to "scan" barcodes found on cards which will instantly add the animal into your garden. Finally, gamers will be able to take pictures of their piñatas or gardens, upload them onto the internet to share or can be assigned a special barcode to share with friends so they can add the piñata to their garden. Check out the official Xbox.com Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise webspace, view the screenshots below and get pumped for more piñata fun this September!

JoystiqViva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise confirmed, hits retail this September originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 May 2008 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>rarespring-showcase-08viva-pinataviva-pinata-2viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseTue, 13 May 2008 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Banjo Kazooie: Nuts and Bolts and Viva Pinata 2: Trouble in Paradise details]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/12/banjo-3-and-viva-2-details/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/12/banjo-3-and-viva-2-details/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/12/banjo-3-and-viva-2-details/#commentsFiled under:


Thanks to the newest issue of Game Informer there is now even more news about Rare's newest 360 outings. Regarding Viva Pinata 2, the article says that the game now sports two player local drop-in/drop-out co-op, a massively expanded trading card system, over thirty new pinatas, a photo mode, and more. Now as for Banjo, there's going to be over 1600 parts to find and use, note finding is back and is the game's currency, and Rare says that they really wanted to avoid making a hi-res old Banjo game. Hit the break for more info.

Continue reading Banjo Kazooie: Nuts and Bolts and Viva Pinata 2: Trouble in Paradise details

JoystiqBanjo Kazooie: Nuts and Bolts and Viva Pinata 2: Trouble in Paradise details originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 May 2008 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banjo-kazooie-3microsoftrareviva-pinata-2Mon, 12 May 2008 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Viva Pinata, Scene It? sequels revealed by Microsoft]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/12/viva-pinata-scene-it-sequels-revealed-by-microsoft/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/12/viva-pinata-scene-it-sequels-revealed-by-microsoft/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/12/viva-pinata-scene-it-sequels-revealed-by-microsoft/#commentsFiled under: ,

Yeesh, the good ship Microsoft has had so many leaks we'll be shocked if it can even stay afloat for tomorrow's Gamer's Day event being held in San Francisco. While doing some pre-briefing site combing, one intrepid NeoGAF user discovered confirmation to sequels for Viva Piñata (sub-titled Trouble in Paradise) and Scene It?. Can you guess which one we're more excited about?

What's more, the NeoGAFfers even dug up some screenshots from the game for you to enjoy. Just do us a favor and look surprised tomorrow. We don't want to hurt Jeff Bell's feelings.

[Via X3F]

Gallery: Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise

JoystiqViva Pinata, Scene It? sequels revealed by Microsoft originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 May 2008 07:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingnewsmicrosoftMicrosoft-Gamers-Day-2008rareviva-pinataviva-pinata-2Viva-Pinata-Trouble-in-ParadiseXbox-360Mon, 12 May 2008 07:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Viva Pinata and Scene It? sequels are real!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/12/viva-pinata-and-scene-it-sequels-are-real/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/12/viva-pinata-and-scene-it-sequels-are-real/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/12/viva-pinata-and-scene-it-sequels-are-real/#commentsFiled under:

As hard as they tried, Microsoft just couldn't keep the lid on this week's Microsoft Gamers Day 2008 announcements as we just got word that both Viva Piñata and Scene It? are getting sequels. It looks like we now know what Rare's secret project is.

Mention of both sequels was discovered on one of Microsoft's press sites, where someone accidently uploaded all of the categories for this week's MGD08 announcements including categories for Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise and Scene It? 2. And being the good reporters that we are, we went out and confirmed that both of these two unannounced titles are in fact listed on Microsoft's press site, though all game media has since been pulled. But not before the crew over at NeoGAF grabbed screenshot love from the Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise folder. So, not only do we get leaked word that Viva Piñata and Scene It? sequels are headed our way, but we also get a first look at Trouble in Paradise! Enjoy the screens!

JoystiqViva Pinata and Scene It? sequels are real! originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 May 2008 02:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftrarescene-itscene-it-2viva-pinataviva-pinata-2viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseMon, 12 May 2008 02:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Rare game a sequel to a released 360 title]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/09/rumor-rare-game-a-sequel-to-a-released-360-title/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/09/rumor-rare-game-a-sequel-to-a-released-360-title/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/09/rumor-rare-game-a-sequel-to-a-released-360-title/#commentsFiled under:


More rumors folks! This time it's in regards to that unannounced Rare game that's going to be hitting before year's end. According to a poster on NeoGAF who claims to be under NDA (a claim backed up by other posters' reactions to the info), the title is a sequel to a game of Rare's that has already been released on the 360. Logically, that narrows things down quite a bit. Is it Kameo? With Banjo Kazooie on the way? No. A Perfect Dark game? With Gears 2 on the way? No. Jetpac Re-Refueled? Hell No.

Given that this is a rumor, we could still be way off base, but we're gonna call this one as a Viva Pinata sequel. If it is, hopefully Microsoft will actually market it this time around, so people know about it and it actually sells.

JoystiqRumor: Rare game a sequel to a released 360 title originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 May 2008 05:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftrarerumorrumorsviva-pinataviva-pinata-2Fri, 09 May 2008 05:30:00 EST