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[Achievements, unlocked: Microsoft details Xbox One's 'challenge' system]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/06/13/achievements-unlocked-microsoft-details-xbox-ones-challenge/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/06/13/achievements-unlocked-microsoft-details-xbox-ones-challenge/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/06/13/achievements-unlocked-microsoft-details-xbox-ones-challenge/#commentsMicrosoft details Xbox One achievements, community challenge system Microsoft's Cierra McDonald has outlined plans for the Xbox One's overhauled achievements system, detailing new in-game "challenges" that promote community collaboration.

Xbox One challenges are time-limited tasks displayed alongside achievements in a player's profile. Unlike achievements, challenges do not award GamerScore. Challenges, however, have the ability to track progress across multiple games and among all Xbox Live members, allowing developers to implement community-based goals. The Xbox 360 currently offers a similar service with Avatar FameStar.

McDonald outlines a possible implementation: "Imagine, for example, a game releases a headshot weekend challenge that requires players to cumulatively headshot 1 million baddies in a 3 day period. And every person who participates and meets the challenge's goals gets the unlock on his or her achievement history and reaps its reward."

Achievements, meanwhile, are not bound by time constraints, and are still unlocked via individual player progress. Promising players "more tangible benefits" for their in-game progress, McDonald notes that Xbox One achievements may now unlock "digital artwork, new maps, unlockable characters, and temporary stat boosts," along with other bonuses.

McDonald revealed that Xbox One video and music apps can also use achievements to reward players with "sneak peek content, early access, or subscription extensions." Note, however, that you can't use app achievements to pad out your Gamerscore - points are only awarded for achievements earned in games.

JoystiqAchievements, unlocked: Microsoft details Xbox One's 'challenge' system originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 Jun 2013 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementschallengesmicrosoftxboxxbox-livexbox-oneThu, 13 Jun 2013 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox One can update Achievements in response to player behavior]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/xbox-one-can-update-achievements-in-response-to-player-behavior/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/xbox-one-can-update-achievements-in-response-to-player-behavior/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/xbox-one-can-update-achievements-in-response-to-player-behavior/#comments The Xbox One's connection to the cloud can alter a game's Achievements in response to player behavior, Microsoft has revealed at its ongoing unveiling event in Redmond. Dan Greenawalt, Creative Director at Forza developer Turn 10 Studios, cited the "I took an arrow to the knee" meme as an example of how game makers might hinge their extrinsic rewards on post-launch reactions.

The meme began with The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim, in which droves of melancholic guards told the same story about an old injury.

To extrapolate from Greenawalt's comment, it seems Microsoft is keen to further distance itself from the idea of the game as a static disc. Xbox 360 games had their Achievement lists extended with significant title updates and downloadable expansions, but the Xbox One is expected to update the rewards list more fluidly. Game creators may use Achievements to encourage comical or topical behavior, or use them to educate players if they're missing certain features or secrets.

JoystiqXbox One can update Achievements in response to player behavior originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 May 2013 16:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementsclouddan-greenawaltkinectmicrosoftxboxxbox-livexbox-onexbox-revealTue, 21 May 2013 16:08:00 EST<![CDATA[Crysis 3 multiplayer DLC emerges via achievements listing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/crysis-3-multiplayer-dlc-emerges-via-achievements-listing/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/crysis-3-multiplayer-dlc-emerges-via-achievements-listing/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/crysis-3-multiplayer-dlc-emerges-via-achievements-listing/#comments A new achievements listing suggests Crysis 3 is suiting up for multiplayer DLC. Posted on the typically reliable Xbox 360 Achievements, the listing indicates a 250G pack featuring four maps called Creek, Crossing, Ascent, and Coastline, and two modes called Frenzy and Team Possession. The mention of a flag points to Team Possession being a CTF variant.

The DLC apparently also has a new weapon: the boat oar. We mainly wanted to mention it because the associated achievement is called 'Totally Oarsome.'

EA hasn't announced any upcoming DLC for Crysis 3, although developer Crytek previously indicated it had "big plans" for post-launch content. We've reached out to EA for more info.

JoystiqCrysis 3 multiplayer DLC emerges via achievements listing originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 May 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementscrysis-3crytekDLCEAmicrosoftmultiplayerpcplaystationps3xboxThu, 16 May 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Google Play Games leaks out, will feature matchmaking and achievements]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/12/google-play-games-leaks-out-will-feature-matchmaking-and-achiev/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/12/google-play-games-leaks-out-will-feature-matchmaking-and-achiev/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/12/google-play-games-leaks-out-will-feature-matchmaking-and-achiev/#comments'Google Play Games' leaks out, will feature matchmaking and achievements The Android answer to Apple's Game Center app on iOS will be Google Play Games, according to information obtained by Android Police from a Play Services APK teardown. The service will bring lobbies and invites for matchmaking, in-game chat, cloud game saves, achievements and leaderboards to the platform for developers to make use of.

The APK Android Police pulled apart is a file package primarily used to update Android apps, so this update was riddled with code that indicated what features would be coming to the platform down the road, but aren't accessible just yet. There is certainly a good chance Google Play Games will be fully unveiled at Google's I/O event next week in San Francisco.

JoystiqGoogle Play Games leaks out, will feature matchmaking and achievements originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 12 May 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Achievementsandroidcloud-savesgame-centergooglegoogle-playgoogle-play-gamesleaderboardsmatchmakingmobileSun, 12 May 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[This is what the Xbox 360 Achievement sound looks like]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/11/this-is-what-the-xbox-360-achievement-sound-looks-like/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/11/this-is-what-the-xbox-360-achievement-sound-looks-like/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/11/this-is-what-the-xbox-360-achievement-sound-looks-like/#comments This is what the Xbox 360 achievement sound looks like
Whenever you hear that "boop-boop" drop-chime of Achievement on the Xbox 360, picture this floating, green jellyfish-like image, because that's what it looks like. This is according to design company Born of Sound, which makes noises into "sound-forms," or physical art.

JoystiqThis is what the Xbox 360 Achievement sound looks like originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Apr 2013 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Achievementsartborn-of-soundmicrosoftnoisesoundvisualxboxThu, 11 Apr 2013 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ride to Hell achievement listing suggests imminent ride to retail]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/ride-to-hell-achievements-listing-indicates-imminent-ride-to-ret/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/ride-to-hell-achievements-listing-indicates-imminent-ride-to-ret/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/ride-to-hell-achievements-listing-indicates-imminent-ride-to-ret/#comments Ride to Hell achievements listing indicates imminent ride to retail Ride to Hell, the Deep Silver biker game first announced in 2008 before dropping off the radar for several years, may make a surprise arrival on retail shelves in the near future. A list of achievements, posted today by Xbox360Achievements, is the latest piece of growing evidence that the long-unseen game is due for release soon.

Ride to Hell was initially expected on Xbox 360 in Q2 2009, but after missing its release window it was rumored to be canceled. Earlier this year, Deep Silver confirmed to Polygon the game is still in development, saying there would be announcements on it soon. Shortly after, a game called Ride to Hell: Retribution received a multiplatform rating from the Australian Classification Board, with developer Eutechnyx listed as the author and Deep Silver as the publisher.

The achievements themselves indicate a mixture of shooting with biking elements. When it was first announced in 2008, Deep Silver introduced Ride to Hell as "aimed heavily at the player who wants to become fully involved in the original West Coast biker culture" with a ""hard drinking, bare-knuckle environment." Then again, this was some five years ago.

We've reached out to Deep Silver for comment.

JoystiqRide to Hell achievement listing suggests imminent ride to retail originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Mar 2013 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Achievementsdeep-silvereutechnyxmicrosoftride-to-hellride-to-hell-retributionxboxThu, 28 Mar 2013 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ouya won't ship with online chat, friends lists, achievements]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/12/ouya-wont-ship-with-online-chat-friends-lists-achievements/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/12/ouya-wont-ship-with-online-chat-friends-lists-achievements/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/12/ouya-wont-ship-with-online-chat-friends-lists-achievements/#comments Ouya missing some online features at launchWhen the Ouya is deployed to Kickstarter backers on March 28, it will be short a few online features: online chat, friends lists and achievements, specifically. These features will come to the tiny Android console later in the year, an Ouya representative tells The Verge. The Ouya will support online multiplayer, as long as developers build that functionality into their games.

Ouya opened its storefront to developers last week, bulking up its games offering prior to launch. Those who didn't donate to the Ouya Kickstarter will be able to purchase a console for $99 in June, online or in physical stores.

JoystiqOuya won't ship with online chat, friends lists, achievements originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Mar 2013 21:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Achievementsandroidchatfriends-listonlineouyaTue, 12 Mar 2013 21:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Double Dragon 2 remake achievements suggest upcoming, belated release]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/07/double-dragon-2-remake-achievements-suggest-upcoming-belated-re/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/07/double-dragon-2-remake-achievements-suggest-upcoming-belated-re/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/07/double-dragon-2-remake-achievements-suggest-upcoming-belated-re/#comments
Achievements emerged today for Gravity's 3D XBLA remake of Double Dragon 2, subtitled Wander of the Dragons, a bit surprising really since we haven't heard anything about the game in 18 months. The remake, based on the arcade version of Double Dragon 2: The Revenge, was originally earmarked for a September 2011 release, a window it missed somewhat. However, today's listing on Xbox360Achievements doesn't just suggest there's still life in the game, but also that it's due for release soon.

Wander of the Dragon, developed by the Gravity-owned Barunson Interactive of MMO Dragonica fame, doesn't much resemble the original game, mixing up a more modern-looking style of beat-em-up with different character designs, as you can see for yourself in the video above - bear in mind that footage is of what was shown back in 2011.

JoystiqDouble Dragon 2 remake achievements suggest upcoming, belated release originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Mar 2013 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementsbarunson-interactivecyberfrontdouble-dragon-2gravitymicrosoftXBLAXBLMxboxThu, 07 Mar 2013 10:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Achievements suggest 'Resident Evil: Revelations Unveiled Edition' for 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/12/achievements-suggest-resident-evil-revelations-unveiled-editio/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/12/achievements-suggest-resident-evil-revelations-unveiled-editio/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/12/achievements-suggest-resident-evil-revelations-unveiled-editio/#comments Back in November, Korean ratings board GRB posted listings for Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 versions of Resident Evil: Revelations; a port that Capcom has yet to officially announce in any capacity. Now, purported achievements for the 360 version have surfaced, listing the game's full title as Resident Evil: Revelations Unveiled Edition.

The achievements themselves reveal little, beyond the fact that both Campaign and Raid modes will make the jump from handheld to console, should this all shake out. As intrigued as we are, the idea of a 3DS to console port brings up many questions, though the fact that the word "revelations" is spelled correctly is promising. We've reached out to Capcom for comment.

JoystiqAchievements suggest 'Resident Evil: Revelations Unveiled Edition' for 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 12 Jan 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3DSachievementscapcomconsole-portmicrosoftportresident-evilresident-evil-revelationsxboxSat, 12 Jan 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wordament hits iOS, complete with Xbox Live Achievements]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/22/wordament-hits-ios-complete-with-xbox-live-achievements/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/22/wordament-hits-ios-complete-with-xbox-live-achievements/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/22/wordament-hits-ios-complete-with-xbox-live-achievements/#comments Wordament hits iOS, with Xbox AchievementsWordament, one of the first Xbox Live-enabled games Microsoft brought to Windows 8, is now available for free on iOS devices. The tournament-based word game connects to Xbox Live and is capable of cross-platform play, as it uses the same servers as the Windows 8 and Windows Phone versions.

Wordament is a Boggle-style word finding game, and includes "frenemies" lists, stat tracking and global leaderboards. Additionally, players that log in to their Xbox Live accounts in the game can also earn up to 50 gamerpoints from the its 10 achievements.

JoystiqWordament hits iOS, complete with Xbox Live Achievements originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 22 Dec 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AchievementsiosipadiphoneMicrosoftmicrosoft-studiosmobilewordamentXbox-LiveSat, 22 Dec 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Codemasters hires achievement bloggers to design achievements for Grid 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/28/codemasters-hires-achievement-bloggers-to-design-achievements-fo/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/28/codemasters-hires-achievement-bloggers-to-design-achievements-fo/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/28/codemasters-hires-achievement-bloggers-to-design-achievements-fo/#comments Codemasters hires achievement bloggers to design achievements for Grid 2Dan Webb is the editor-in-chief of both Xbox 360 Achievements and PS3 Trophies, two sites that have covered metarewards on the two major consoles for a few years now. But he's never actually helped write an achievement list, and so Codemasters is finally giving him that chance with Grid 2. Webb and the rest of his writers will not only create the achievements for the upcoming racing game, but will have a series of posts, videos, and other content showing off what actually goes into the process of giving away all of those gamerpoints.

"Codemasters have put their faith in us to work with them on creating the ultimate list," says Webb in the press release, "and we're looking forward to repaying that trust to design Achievements and Trophies with unique objectives that will put a smile on players' faces with each and every unlock." We're interested to see just what Webb and the developers create. Even if things don't work out, odds are they won't make the worst achievement list ever, right?

JoystiqCodemasters hires achievement bloggers to design achievements for Grid 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Nov 2012 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementscodemastersdan-webbgridgrid-2microsoftplaystationps3ps3-trophiesracingtrophiestrophyxboxxbox-360-achievementsWed, 28 Nov 2012 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[OpenFeint shutting down December 14 in favor of GREE's service]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/17/openfeint-shutting-down-december-14-in-favor-of-grees-service/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/17/openfeint-shutting-down-december-14-in-favor-of-grees-service/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/17/openfeint-shutting-down-december-14-in-favor-of-grees-service/#comments OpenFeint, a mobile gaming platform that offers an online social hub and achievements system for iOS and Android games, will shut down on December 14. GREE, OpenFeint's parent company since April 2011, is offering options for developers to migrate existing OpenFeint-supported games to the GREE service. Some of the noteworthy OpenFeint-supported games include Tiny Wings, Fruit Ninja and Robot Unicorn Attack.

According to OpenFeint's support page, "all OpenFeint network calls will be nonfunctional which may result in service disruptions to your game and a poor player experience" after the plug is pulled on the service in mid-December.

Basic GREE platform integration is expected to take no longer than a week for some developers, and the list of changes between the services notes that "there is no asynchronous method associated with the unlocking of achievements for iOS games" on the GREE service.

JoystiqOpenFeint shutting down December 14 in favor of GREE's service originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 17 Nov 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AchievementsandroidGREEiosipadiphonemobileopenfeintSat, 17 Nov 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Some Medal of Honor: Warfighter achievements not unlocking properly]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/29/some-medal-of-honor-warfighter-achievements-not-unlocking-prope/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/29/some-medal-of-honor-warfighter-achievements-not-unlocking-prope/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/29/some-medal-of-honor-warfighter-achievements-not-unlocking-prope/#comments Several players are having trouble unlocking certain Medal of Honor: Warfighter achievements, according to the game's forum. Specifically, the "Global Warfighters" achievement, awarded for unlocking "a soldier from each unit, and the "Warchief" achievement, awarded for unlocking all soldiers in multiplayer, will not unlock when the requirements are met.

The majority of the complaints seem to center around the Xbox 360 version of the game, though the problem has been reported on the PS3 version as well. For the moment, there doesn't appear to be a solution or workaround. We've contacted EA for comment.

[Thanks, Brandon!]

JoystiqSome Medal of Honor: Warfighter achievements not unlocking properly originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Oct 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementsmedal-of-honor-warfightermicrosoftplaystationps3trophiesxboxMon, 29 Oct 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live rewarding Gamerscore with rebates and birthday gifts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/28/xbox-live-rewarding-gamerscore-with-rebates-and-birthday-gifts/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/28/xbox-live-rewarding-gamerscore-with-rebates-and-birthday-gifts/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/28/xbox-live-rewarding-gamerscore-with-rebates-and-birthday-gifts/#comments Xbox Live rewarding Achievements with rebates and birthday giftsXbox Live Rewards is now offering players rebates on Marketplace purchases, based on their Gamerscore. Gold members with more than 25000 Achievement Points get 2 percent back (in Microsoft Points) on Xbox Live purchases made each month. Gold members with more than 10000 APs get a 1 percent rebate, while all Gold members with 3000+ APs get a "special gift" in the months of their birthdays. We do note the fine print says the gift has an approximate retail value of 25 cents. But it's the thought that counts, right?

Microsoft teased a tie-in between Achievements and Xbox Live Rewards earlier this year, and now the company's made good on that tease. Still, we'd like to see those die-hard players with more than 50K or 100K worth of APs get some properly sizable rewards, something like 5 and 10 percent rebates, respectively. At that rate we suppose Microsoft would have to reward the guy working up to one million APs with everything on the Marketplace ... which he must already own anyway.

Gold members must sign up to the Xbox Live Rewards scheme to get the bonuses. Otherwise the'll have to make do with measly real-life birthday presents.

JoystiqXbox Live rewarding Gamerscore with rebates and birthday gifts originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 28 Sep 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementsgamerscoremicrosoftpcXBLAXBLMxboxxbox-livexbox-live-rewardsFri, 28 Sep 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live Rewards to (somehow) tie into Achievements this Fall [Update: MS statement added]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/19/xbox-live-rewards-to-somehow-tie-into-achievements-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/19/xbox-live-rewards-to-somehow-tie-into-achievements-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/19/xbox-live-rewards-to-somehow-tie-into-achievements-this-fall/#comments Xbox Live Rewards to tie into Achievements this FallSoon you'll have new ways to earn Xbox Live Rewards. The official Twitter account for Microsoft's wing that incentivizes friend referrals and surveys with free MS Points has announced Achievement functionality is coming this fall. The problem is we don't exactly know what that means right now.

A tweet issued earlier today simply promises "a new way to earn Rewards based on your Achievements," coming this fall. We hope this means difficult Achievements will net us MS Points - we definitely deserve a bonus for earning all of the Achievements in Avatar: The Legend of Aang: The Burning Earth - but that's speculation until Microsoft gets back to us.

Update: Microsoft wouldn't go into specifics and instead offered us the following statement: "We don't have many details to provide at this time, but can say that based on our member feedback, we're constantly looking for ways to continue enhancing and improving our Xbox Live Rewards program."

JoystiqXbox Live Rewards to (somehow) tie into Achievements this Fall [Update: MS statement added] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Jun 2012 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementskinectloyalty-programmicrosoftxboxxbox-ivexbox-ive-goldxbox-live-rewardsTue, 19 Jun 2012 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii U achievements not mandatory for devs, friend codes to change for the better]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/12/wii-u-achievements-not-mandatory-for-devs-friend-codes-to-chang/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/12/wii-u-achievements-not-mandatory-for-devs-friend-codes-to-chang/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/12/wii-u-achievements-not-mandatory-for-devs-friend-codes-to-chang/#comments Wii U achievements not mandatory for devs, friend codes to change for the betterThere won't be a pervasive "achievement" system on Wii U, Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aime suggested to Kotaku. Referring to the 3DS's system-specific achievements, which honor StreetPass-based activities in the system software, "We will have that," Fils-Aime said. "Once you start getting into game-specific [Achievements] that's developer driven."

Fils-Aime hinted at changes to the friend code system for connecting to online friends, calling the new system "friend codes, but it's not the existing friend code system." He added, "you will be able to identify people as friends and have a certain level of interaction versus a different level of interaction for the more general population. The method by which you identify someone as a friend is a lot simpler than what's happening today with Friend Codes." However, he didn't go into detail.

Fils-Aime also had good news regarding the announced content filtering system. It turns out that messages that aren't flagged by an automatic scan won't be subject to manual scanning. If a message is flagged by that, and then by the community, then Nintendo steps in.

JoystiqWii U achievements not mandatory for devs, friend codes to change for the better originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Jun 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementse3-2012friend-codesnintendoreggie-fils-aimewii-uTue, 12 Jun 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Achievements hint at additional Kingdoms of Amalur DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/achievements-hint-at-additional-kingdoms-of-amalur-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/achievements-hint-at-additional-kingdoms-of-amalur-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/achievements-hint-at-additional-kingdoms-of-amalur-dlc/#comments There's a reason Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning isn't called Kingdom of Amalur: Just the One, Thanks. Well, there are probably a few reasons it's not called that, but one that sticks out to us is the likelihood that Reckoning will have multiple DLC packs, if a group of new achievements listed by Xbox 360 Achievements is to be trusted.

The listing is labeled "DLC [Untitled DLC2]" and includes six achievements, five of which are secret. The known achievement is titled "Murder Most Fowl" and gives up 25 points for killing 50 Pteryx. The rest are super secret, but we imagine titles such as "Flipping the birds of prey" and "Cock-a-doodle-do your worst."

JoystiqAchievements hint at additional Kingdoms of Amalur DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Achievementsbird-punsDLCfowlkingdoms-of-amalur-reckoningmicrosoftsecret-achievementsxboxMon, 26 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live users report Gamerscores dropping to zero, MS aware of the issue [Update: potential fixes]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/xbox-live-users-report-gamerscores-dropping-to-zero-ms-aware-of/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/xbox-live-users-report-gamerscores-dropping-to-zero-ms-aware-of/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/xbox-live-users-report-gamerscores-dropping-to-zero-ms-aware-of/#comments Some Xbox Live users are finding a nasty surprise today: their Gamerscores and Achievement lists showing up as totally empty -- an ironic twist after news of a Gamerscore increase for XBLA games. Tips are pouring in from concerned 360 owners.

Microsoft is already working on it, noting on its support page "We are aware of the problem and appreciate your patience while we implement a solution." Joystiq is trying to determine the cause of today's issue, and will keep you updated as the story develops.

Update: Microsoft says you should sign out and sign back in, and suggests you try re-downloading your profile if the issue persists.

JoystiqXbox Live users report Gamerscores dropping to zero, MS aware of the issue [Update: potential fixes] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Mar 2012 10:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementsgamerscoremicrosoftxboxTue, 13 Mar 2012 10:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Achievement policy changing for XBLA titles, raising Gamerscore allotment [update: confirmed]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/12/rumor-achievement-policy-changing-for-xbla-titles-raising-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/12/rumor-achievement-policy-changing-for-xbla-titles-raising-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/12/rumor-achievement-policy-changing-for-xbla-titles-raising-game/#comments Microsoft will allegedly raise the Gamerscore and number of Achievements allowed for Xbox Live Arcade titles shortly. Xbox360Achievements.org reports, via an inside source, the base Gamerscore allotment will be raised from 200 to 400, with a max of 30 Achievements available per title instead of 20. Downloadable content will also receive more flexibility, doubling the potential Gamerscore procurement to 100, with up to eight Achievements allowed per quarter, with a max of four packs allowed over time.

The new rules will apparently go into effect between April 1 and May 31, with titles launching during that time having the option of going by either the old or new system. According to the site, all games after June 1 will be required to follow the new rules. We've contacted Microsoft for confirmation of the details.

Update: Major Nelson just posted a notice of the new policy.

JoystiqAchievement policy changing for XBLA titles, raising Gamerscore allotment [update: confirmed] originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Mar 2012 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AchievementsGamerscoremicrosoftxblaxboxMon, 12 Mar 2012 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Achievements suggest Assassin's Creed: Revelations single-player DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/achievements-suggest-assassins-creed-revelations-single-player/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/achievements-suggest-assassins-creed-revelations-single-player/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/achievements-suggest-assassins-creed-revelations-single-player/#commentsJust because Ubisoft announced a new Assassin's Creed is coming out on October 30 doesn't mean it's completely forgotten last year's installment, Revelations. Ten new achievements for an unknown Revelations DLC pack were spotted by Xbox 360 Achievements, appearing to be for the single-player campaign. They include crossing the River Styx without dying, landing on a block after falling 25 meters, and "Breaking the Loop," one of two secret achievements.

Ubisoft may be gearing up to release a new version of Revelations, as UK retailer Game briefly listed the Ottoman Edition (with "free downloadable content") and online market AWX is advertising the same version with a release date of March 16, CVG notes.

The previous two DLC packs for Revelations, Mediterannean Traveler and Ancestors Character Pack, have been multiplayer-centric. Perhaps the new DLC will bridge the gap between Desmond's Revelations arc and the new story -- not that he would need a bridge, but still.

JoystiqAchievements suggest Assassin's Creed: Revelations single-player DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Achievementsassassins-creed-revelationsAssassins-Creed-Revelations-Ottoman-EditionDLCmicrosoftOttoman-Editionpcplaystationps3xboxWed, 15 Feb 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Simpsons Arcade achievements mention inclusion of 'Japanese ROM']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/13/the-simpsons-arcade-achievements-mention-inclusion-of-japanese/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/13/the-simpsons-arcade-achievements-mention-inclusion-of-japanese/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/13/the-simpsons-arcade-achievements-mention-inclusion-of-japanese/#comments The XBLA adaptation of Konami's The Simpsons Arcade Game has yet to be officially announced, but we're learning more details about it regardless. The Achievements have been spotted by Xbox360Achievements -- they include one called "Mr. Sparkle," which requires you to banish dirt to the land of wind and ghosts. Oh, wait, we read that wrong. It requires you to "make it to the stage 3 bosses in Survival Mode with the Japanese ROM."

This suggests that the Japanese version of the arcade game is included. There are a few minor differences from the US release, according to HG101: lower difficulty, more health items, more points, and the ability to jump while holding a weapon. The inclusion of that international version also suggests that developer Backbone is putting a bit of extra care into this update.

JoystiqThe Simpsons Arcade achievements mention inclusion of 'Japanese ROM' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Jan 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementsbackbonekonamimicrosoftthe-simpsons-arcade-gamexblaxboxFri, 13 Jan 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Assassin's Creed: Revelations Achievements emerge from the shadows]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/17/assassins-creed-revelations-achievements-emerge-from-the-shado/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/17/assassins-creed-revelations-achievements-emerge-from-the-shado/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/17/assassins-creed-revelations-achievements-emerge-from-the-shado/#comments Like a first-day assassin recruit, the Assassin's Creed: Revelations Achievements list isn't the best at hiding. With over a month to go until launch, it looks like players already have a good idea of what to expect from a majority of Revelations' Achievements -- that is, if they've played Brotherhood.

The Achievements list is a healthy mix of story-based stuff and multiplayer, though a few are probably a bit spoilery, so click through at your own risk. You've been warned!

JoystiqAssassin's Creed: Revelations Achievements emerge from the shadows originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Oct 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementsassassins-creed-revelationsmicrosoftubisoftxboxMon, 17 Oct 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Achievements reveal playable Nightwing in Batman: Arkham City]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/03/achievements-reveal-playable-nightwing-in-batman-arkham-city/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/03/achievements-reveal-playable-nightwing-in-batman-arkham-city/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/03/achievements-reveal-playable-nightwing-in-batman-arkham-city/#commentsMore Achievements for Batman: Arkham City have swooped dramatically out of a dark corner, this time for DLC. Two achievements make reference to a "Nightwing Bundle Pack," featuring a playable version of Nightwing (the original Robin, Dick Grayson, all grown up).

The (unofficial) reveal of Nightwing brings the playable cast to four, including Batman, Robin, and Catwoman, with Robin and Nightwing exclusive to downloadable content. If you're concerned about too many characters crowding out your brooding time as Batman, you can always ... just not get the DLC.

[Image: DC Comics]

JoystiqAchievements reveal playable Nightwing in Batman: Arkham City originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 03 Oct 2011 11:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementsBatman-Arkham-Asylum-2Batman-Arkham-Citymicrosoftnightwingnintendopcplaystationps3Rocksteady-Studioswarner-bros-interactivewii-uxboxMon, 03 Oct 2011 11:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Dig into the Modern Warfare 3 cheevos]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/26/dig-into-the-modern-warfare-3-cheevos/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/26/dig-into-the-modern-warfare-3-cheevos/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/26/dig-into-the-modern-warfare-3-cheevos/#comments We don't want to spoil Modern Warfare 3, even though the idea that you're desperate to see how the narrative evolves is a touch ... naive on our part. Still, we're going to be very vague about the list of achievements for the game that just popped up on Xbox360Achievements.org.

So, all we can say is that during Modern Warfare 3 you'll "escape" three things and "destroy" four things. Oh, and six cheevos require "killing" things, so we know there will be some killing, in the Call of Duty game. Also? Two require "aesthetically-flawless cake frosting."

No, no, that's not true. But there is killing.

JoystiqDig into the Modern Warfare 3 cheevos originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Sep 2011 16:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementsactivisioncall-of-duty-modern-warfare-3microsoftmodern-warfare-3pcplaystationps3xboxMon, 26 Sep 2011 16:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Batman: Arkham City achievements leaked]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/03/batman-arkham-city-achievements-leaked/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/03/batman-arkham-city-achievements-leaked/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/03/batman-arkham-city-achievements-leaked/#comments Holy leakin' 'chievos, Batman! We may have to wait until October 18 for The Dark Knight clean up the mean streets of Gotham in Batman: Arkham City, but you can check out a list of the cloak and cowl's forthcoming accomplishments after the break.

Continue reading Batman: Arkham City achievements leaked

JoystiqBatman: Arkham City achievements leaked originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 03 Sep 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AchievementsBatman-Arkham-Asylum-2Batman-Arkham-Citymicrosoftpcplaystationps3Rocksteady-StudiosxboxSat, 03 Sep 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[OnLive adds parental controls, group chat, Facebook achievement posting today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/24/onlive-adds-parental-controls-group-chat-facebook-achievement/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/24/onlive-adds-parental-controls-group-chat-facebook-achievement/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/24/onlive-adds-parental-controls-group-chat-facebook-achievement/#comments Fear not, there's some good news to report about OnLive today as well. CEO Steve Perlman told Joystiq about three new features that are live on the cloud-gaming service ... right now.

Group voice chat allows users to specify "groups" of people, and maintain persistent chat sessions with them, even when they're playing different games, accessing menus, etc. It's even possible to send out an email from within the service inviting group members to chat.

Second, parental controls will allow parents to set limits on the content their kids can play, along ESRB or PEGI lines, with the potential to fine-tune to allow individual games (in the case of, say, unrated indie games). "With a different account, if [parents] want," Perlman explained, "they can actually watch the kid playing, and chat with the kid, and so on." He clarified that, since the parent would presumably be in control of the child's account in the first place, a parent can limit spectating and chat to "friends."

Finally, it's now possible for achievements to automatically post to a user's Facebook wall. OnLive will automatically record the ten seconds of gameplay up to that achievement, and post it as an HD "Brag Clip." "Facebook has been terrific to work on with this," Perlman said. "They actually made a couple of mods to their system -- because we're the first guys posting HD resolution videos nonstop over to Facebook. They're into it."

JoystiqOnLive adds parental controls, group chat, Facebook achievement posting today originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Aug 2011 14:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementsbrag-clipsfacebookonliveparental-controlspcsteve-perlmanvoice-chatWed, 24 Aug 2011 14:07:00 EST<![CDATA[The Gunstringer achievement you really shouldn't get]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/27/the-gunstringer-achievement-you-really-shouldnt-get/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/27/the-gunstringer-achievement-you-really-shouldnt-get/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/27/the-gunstringer-achievement-you-really-shouldnt-get/#comments Twisted Pixel is known for its charming games, but something darker lurks just beneath the surface of The Gunstringer. Namely: there's a secret option on the Kinect shooter that makes it hate you. It's called "Hardcore Mode," and it sounds terrifying. Enemies shoot three times as much, health drops twice as quickly and traps spring from nowhere. Plus, if you die you'll have to head right back to the beginning of the game.

Understand that when we tell you that there's a 50-point achievement for finishing a Hardcore run-through in one sitting called Strings of Steel, it's not so you'll go after it. In fact, it's actually so you'll do the exact opposite and pity those those lost souls who delved into the dark recesses of madness to claim it.

JoystiqThe Gunstringer achievement you really shouldn't get originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Jul 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementskinectmicrosoftthe-gunstringertwisted-pixelxboxWed, 27 Jul 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Resident Evil 4 HD's Achievements revealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/14/resident-evil-4-hds-achievements-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/14/resident-evil-4-hds-achievements-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/14/resident-evil-4-hds-achievements-revealed/#comments Much like the Achievements for Code Veronica X HD, the Achievements for Resident Evil 4 HD mostly revolve around story progression, save for two we're sure are going to give you a tough time. The "What are they worth?" and "The S stands for stylish!!" Achievements can be unlocked only after you acquire all bottlecaps and costumes, respectively.

Succeeding in that doubly tough endeavor will get you 250 Gamerscore (out of the possible 1,000). And if there's something more important than imaginary points tied to one platform, we don't wanna hear about it.

JoystiqResident Evil 4 HD's Achievements revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Jul 2011 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementscapcommicrosoftresident-evil-4resident-evil-4-hdresident-evil-revival-selectionxboxThu, 14 Jul 2011 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Resident Evil: Code Veronica X HD Achievements revealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/08/resident-evil-code-veronica-x-hd-achievements-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/08/resident-evil-code-veronica-x-hd-achievements-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/08/resident-evil-code-veronica-x-hd-achievements-revealed/#comments You've probably played Resident Evil: Code Veronica before. You might have played it on the Dreamcast, or the PS2. Heck, even the GameCube got in on the action. Those versions of the game, however, were all built on inferior technology and, this fall, Code Veronica X HD will raise the bar to a completely new level.

No, we're not talking about high definition visuals, we're talking about Achievements. Thanks to its status as a Games on Demand title, the Xbox 360 download of Code Veronica will receive the benefit of a full 1000 gamerscore. Most of the cheevos are story-driven, so it should be an easy bag of points.

Now, if only modern technology could do something about Steve...

JoystiqResident Evil: Code Veronica X HD Achievements revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Jul 2011 12:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementscapcommicrosoftresident-evil-code-veronicaresident-evil-code-veronica-xresident-evil-code-veronica-x-hdresident-evil-revival-selectionxboxxbox-liveFri, 08 Jul 2011 12:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Trenched guide will help you dig in against the Monovision]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/08/trenched-guide-will-help-you-dig-in-against-the-monovision/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/08/trenched-guide-will-help-you-dig-in-against-the-monovision/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/08/trenched-guide-will-help-you-dig-in-against-the-monovision/#comments The good folks over at XBLAFans have assembled a guide featuring everything you need to know about Trenched, Double Fine's excellent shooter/tower defense/World War I/mech mashup title on XBLA. From the Achievements to all of the various unlockable mech parts and soldier gear you can find in the game, this guide has you covered. They've even put some maps together on each of the game's levels, so you can figure out exactly where and when you want to put defenses down against each incoming wave.

In other words, if you've got questions about anything in the game, the answers are right there. Now, as for any possible DLC ... well, there is going to be DLC, right, Double Fine?

JoystiqTrenched guide will help you dig in against the Monovision originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Jul 2011 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementsdouble-finegearmicrosoftmicrosoft-games-studiostrenchedunlocksxboxFri, 08 Jul 2011 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gears of War 3 grants extra goodies to previous Gears players]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/25/gears-of-war-3-grants-extra-goodies-to-previous-gears-players/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/25/gears-of-war-3-grants-extra-goodies-to-previous-gears-players/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/25/gears-of-war-3-grants-extra-goodies-to-previous-gears-players/#comments If you got yourself a golden Lancer or Hammerburst (or both) in Gears of War 2, worry not about your bling when Gears of War 3 launches on September 20 -- they'll transfer over, Epic producer Rod Fergusson told MTV Multiplayer. Other unlockables tied to older Gears of War games will mainly revolve around Achievements.

"If you did something in Gears PC you get a chrome skin, if you did something in Gears 2 you get a chrome skin. The chrome set is sort of our thank you to people who played our games in the past." Fergusson also hinted at an incentive for those who've hit level 100 and unlocked the Veteran Gear Achievement in Gears 2, though he wouldn't provide exact details on what having that Achievement would mean in Gears 3.

Better get cracking if you're looking to get that "Seriously" Achievement in the original Gears of War!

JoystiqGears of War 3 grants extra goodies to previous Gears players originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 25 Jun 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Achievementsepic-gamesgears-of-warGears-of-War-3microsoftMicrosoft-Game-StudiosxboxSat, 25 Jun 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dragon Age 2 'Legacy' DLC Achievements spotted]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/24/dragon-age-2-legacy-dlc-achievements-spotted/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/24/dragon-age-2-legacy-dlc-achievements-spotted/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/24/dragon-age-2-legacy-dlc-achievements-spotted/#comments If you can't wait until Comic-Con to see what's coming next for Dragon Age 2 DLC, or if you're one of the people on Earth who can't make it to Comic-Con (most of 'em), you can get an early glimpse of the future now, thanks to Xbox360Achievements.

The site has posted a list of achievements for the "Legacy" DLC, which we suppose could constitute spoilers for content nobody knew about. Judging by the Achievements, you'll be spending the majority of this episode in the Vimmark Mountains. Do those sound removed enough from the city of Kirkwall?

JoystiqDragon Age 2 'Legacy' DLC Achievements spotted originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Jun 2011 16:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementsbiowaredlcdragon-age-2electronic-artslegacymicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxFri, 24 Jun 2011 16:50:00 EST<![CDATA[PhD researcher takes second academic look at Achievements]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/12/phd-researcher-takes-second-academic-look-at-achievements/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/12/phd-researcher-takes-second-academic-look-at-achievements/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/12/phd-researcher-takes-second-academic-look-at-achievements/#comments If you found the first part of PhD researcher and game designer Lucas Blair's study on effective Achievements as interesting as we did, you'll want to check out the recently published second installment over on Gamasutra. While the first article focused on implementing satisfying, compelling carrots in games, this second piece looks more at the more metaphysical components of in-game rewards. For instance, when should Achievements unlock? Once they do, should they be permanent?

Much like the series' first installment, it's definitely worth a read, but take caution: You're going to spend longer than you might like playing its anecdotal Flash game, Achievement Unlocked. Reader beware!

JoystiqPhD researcher takes second academic look at Achievements originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 May 2011 05:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementslucas-blairmicrosoftpcplaystationps3trophiesxboxThu, 12 May 2011 05:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Game designer writes academic report on effective Achievements]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/28/game-designer-writes-academic-report-on-effective-achievements/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/28/game-designer-writes-academic-report-on-effective-achievements/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/28/game-designer-writes-academic-report-on-effective-achievements/#comments Game designer and PhD researcher Lucas Blair recently penned an article that should enrapture the attention of the Gamerscore boosters and Trophy-fiends among you. It's a thorough examination of the different kinds of rewards developers can include in their titles, mixed in with a few suggestions for best practices to ensure said rewards are ... well, reward-ing.

There are a number of interesting comparisons in the report between the dichotomous design philosophies most developers adhere to. For instance: Should achievements be performance-based, or completion-based? Should they reward boring tasks, or interesting tasks -- which the player's likely to do without the incentive. How difficult should achievements be to unlock? It's a pretty thought-provoking read -- though, really, we think Avatar: The Burning Earth set the best example for Achievements a few years ago. Just give us those points.

JoystiqGame designer writes academic report on effective Achievements originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Apr 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementsmicrosoftplaystationps3trophiesxboxThu, 28 Apr 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Minecraft's weather, stats and achievements previewed on video]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/10/minecrafts-weather-stats-and-achievements-previewed-on-video/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/10/minecrafts-weather-stats-and-achievements-previewed-on-video/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/10/minecrafts-weather-stats-and-achievements-previewed-on-video/#comments Minecraft's Update 1.5 looks to be one of the beefiest additions to the game to date, adding weather effects, a statistics page and a whole mess of achievements to the cuboid, world-building indie gem. Check out the video posted after the jump to see these new features in action!

Continue reading Minecraft's weather, stats and achievements previewed on video

JoystiqMinecraft's weather, stats and achievements previewed on video originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 10 Apr 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementsMinecraftMojang-SpecificationsnotchpcupdateweatherSun, 10 Apr 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Cut the Rope gets new 'Magic Box,' gigantic playable demo]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/08/cut-the-rope-gets-new-magic-box-gigantic-playable-demo/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/08/cut-the-rope-gets-new-magic-box-gigantic-playable-demo/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/08/cut-the-rope-gets-new-magic-box-gigantic-playable-demo/#comments Good news, fans of the delightful, physics-based iOS puzzler Cut the Rope! (Or, rather, bad news, if you had things you needed to do today.) An update is now available to the ZeptoLab-developed hit which adds 25 new levels as part of the "Magic Box," and also adds three new Game Center achievements. The new gameplay mechanic this time around is top hats, which serve as portals for your tethered confections -- much like the stockings featured in Cut the Rope: Holiday Gift.

To celebrate the new levels, Chillingo has constructed two massive playable demo stations featuring nine touch screens a piece. If you've got business at Los Angeles' Hollywood & Highland Center or Atlanta International Airport, keep an eye out for these big, beautiful displays -- it's likely to be the most satisfying rope-cutting you ever do.

Continue reading Cut the Rope gets new 'Magic Box,' gigantic playable demo

JoystiqCut the Rope gets new 'Magic Box,' gigantic playable demo originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Apr 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementsatlantachillingocut-the-ropedemoeaioslos-angelesmobileupdatezeptolabFri, 08 Apr 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Achievements top on Xbox Live Indie devs' wish lists]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/18/achievements-top-on-xbox-live-indie-devs-wish-lists/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/18/achievements-top-on-xbox-live-indie-devs-wish-lists/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/18/achievements-top-on-xbox-live-indie-devs-wish-lists/#comments Gamasutra rounded up six of the precious few standout developers of Xbox Live Indie Games (XBLIG) to discuss the continually promising but frequently embattled platform. Camille Guermonprez of Arkedo Studios praised XBLIG as "fast and easy to use" and Xona Games' Matthew Doucette noted that "development is essentially free in terms of fees" (just an annual $120 membership); before he warned that additional "developer and game content expenses can be massive to a start-up."

Indeed, none of these indies has struck gold -- certainly not like the top devs are finding on the App Store -- and three of the six are at least temporarily abandoning XBLIG, while the others have expanded to multiplatform development. "[To] stay only on XBLIG makes no financial sense at the moment," Doucette said.

When asked what improvements could be made to the platform, Luke Schneider of Radian Games' echoed the majority when he said that "the biggest issue is definitely Achievements" -- or lack thereof.

Continue reading Achievements top on Xbox Live Indie devs' wish lists

JoystiqAchievements top on Xbox Live Indie devs' wish lists originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Mar 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementsarkedobinary-tweedgamerscoremicrosoftradian-gamesxbligxblmxboxxbox-live-indie-gamesxona-gamesFri, 18 Mar 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live Labs: Do it for science, do it for avatar items]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/10/xbox-live-labs-do-it-for-science-do-it-for-avatar-items/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/10/xbox-live-labs-do-it-for-science-do-it-for-avatar-items/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/10/xbox-live-labs-do-it-for-science-do-it-for-avatar-items/#commentsMicrosoft has just rolled out a new testing app for Xbox Live in the US called "Xbox Live Labs." The downloadable app, available through March 27, consists of a series of network tests, during which you won't be able to run games or movies.

What do you get for your time, besides a potentially improved online service? Each completed test will award a unique zero-point Achievement and an item of Avatar clothing, including a lab coat, brain helmet, or mad scientist hair, even though this science seems pretty mellow.

You can find Xbox Live Labs in the community channel.

JoystiqXbox Live Labs: Do it for science, do it for avatar items originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Mar 2011 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementsavatar-marketplacemicrosoftxboxxbox-livexbox-live-labsThu, 10 Mar 2011 09:45:00 EST<![CDATA[OnLive roadmap: Achievements, voice chat and more inbound]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/03/onlive-roadmap-achievements-voice-chat-and-more-inbound/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/03/onlive-roadmap-achievements-voice-chat-and-more-inbound/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/03/onlive-roadmap-achievements-voice-chat-and-more-inbound/#comments The future features of cloud-based gaming service OnLive got a little less nebulous during the company's GDC 2011 panel. Speaking to developers, its VP of engineering, Joe Bentley, laid out a list of advancements gamers can expect by the end of the year.

Among the new features being rolled out for game makers to implement are achievements (not detailed, but we're guessing these are derived from the console versions), voice chat, game invites and the ability to directly upload Brag Clips to YouTube.

The latest version of the OnLive SDK will also enable developers to let their games support wireless controllers when played on mobile devices such as iPad, iPhone and Android-powered contraptions. (But not actual androids -- those guys hate it when you press their buttons.)

JoystiqOnLive roadmap: Achievements, voice chat and more inbound originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Mar 2011 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementsandroidcloud-gaminggame-streaminggdc-2011iosmacmobileonlivepcvoice-chatyoutubeThu, 03 Mar 2011 08:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Portal 2 Achievement invites Half-Life 2: Ep 3 conspiracy theory]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/28/portal-2-achievement-invites-half-life-2-ep-3-conspiracy-theory/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/28/portal-2-achievement-invites-half-life-2-ep-3-conspiracy-theory/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/28/portal-2-achievement-invites-half-life-2-ep-3-conspiracy-theory/#comments All fifty of Portal 2's Achievements have been uncovered by Xbox360Achievements.org. In typical Valve fashion, there are some comedic gems in the list, like "The Part Where He Kills You," and some in-jokes, including "Narbacular Drop" and, yes, "Still Alive." But one Achievement is generating some real buzz: "Ship Overboard" has players discovering "the missing experiment."

Some have suggested that this Achievement is a possible reference to the Borealis, an Aperture Science vessel first mentioned in Half-Life 2: Episode Two. In the brief scene (embedded after the break), Isaac Kleiner notes that the Borealis contains some kind of technology that can help humanity. Could Portal 2 tie into the final Half-Life 2 episode? Or are overeager fans simply grasping at nothing? April 20 can't come soon enough.

Continue reading Portal 2 Achievement invites Half-Life 2: Ep 3 conspiracy theory

JoystiqPortal 2 Achievement invites Half-Life 2: Ep 3 conspiracy theory originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Feb 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementsaperture-scienceborealishalf-life-2-episode-2half-life-2-episode-3macmicrosoftpcplaystationportal-2ps3valvexboxMon, 28 Feb 2011 13:00:00 EST