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[Mass Effect series for PC on sale via Origin through March 12]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/09/mass-effect-series-for-pc-on-sale-via-origin-through-march-12/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/09/mass-effect-series-for-pc-on-sale-via-origin-through-march-12/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/09/mass-effect-series-for-pc-on-sale-via-origin-through-march-12/#comments Mass Effect series on sale via Origin through March 12

The last iteration of the Mass Effect series went on sale one year ago this week, and to celebrate, EA is offering a big sale on all three versions of the game over on Origin. You can grab the original Mass Effect for just $7, the critically acclaimed Mass Effect 2 for $10, or a digital deluxe edition of the third game for $15, all about half off the standard prices.

Or if you haven't yet taken a trip aboard the Normandy, the whole trilogy is on sale for only $25, which is less than half what it would usually cost. That's a whole lot of excellent gaming hours, but then again, you'll need something to do while waiting for those SimCity servers, right?

[Thanks, Alex]

JoystiqMass Effect series for PC on sale via Origin through March 12 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 09 Mar 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarybiowareeaelectronic-artsmass-effectmass-effect-2mass-effect-3mass-effect-trilogyoriginpcsaleSat, 09 Mar 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect celebrates N7 day with multiplayer event and discounts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/07/bioware-celebrates-november-7-as-n7-day-with-multiplayer-event-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/07/bioware-celebrates-november-7-as-n7-day-with-multiplayer-event-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/07/bioware-celebrates-november-7-as-n7-day-with-multiplayer-event-a/#comments BioWare celebrates N7 day with multiplayer event and discountsThe video game community has a growing number of annual holidays lately, including the Steam Summer Sale, Bungie Day, and the annual Desert Bus drive. Now you can add one more note to that calendar, as BioWare is declaring November 7 (today) as "N7 Day," an annual chance to celebrate everything Mass Effect. In addition to yet another multiplayer challenge (with a special banner up for grabs), there are some new behind-the-scenes presentations on the official website and big discounts on all of the N7 gear in the BioWare store.

This month marks the fifth anniversary of the original Mass Effect. EA and BioWare are promoting the Mass Effect Trilogy release, which combines all three games and hit stores earlier this week (the PS3 version arrives early next month). Oh, and given how surprised we are that it's been five years since the first Mass Effect game released, N7 Day apparently also celebrates just how super old we feel right now.

JoystiqMass Effect celebrates N7 day with multiplayer event and discounts originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Nov 2012 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarybiowareeventmass-effectmass-effect-trilogymicrosoftn7-daypcplaystationps3xboxWed, 07 Nov 2012 19:45:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret World is free-to-play next weekend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/27/the-secret-world-is-free-to-play-next-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/27/the-secret-world-is-free-to-play-next-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/27/the-secret-world-is-free-to-play-next-weekend/#comments To celebrate the fact that The Secret World has been out and online for a whole month, Funcom will be granting free access to anyone that wants it from 5 p.m. EDT on Friday, August 3 until 3 a.m. EDT on Monday, August 7. Players with left-over beta accounts should be able to log right in, but anyone else will need to create an account first and download the client.

In-game fireworks will also be handed out to everyone playing, up to fifteen per character, until the end of the weekend. Additionally, solving 30 missions between August 3 and 7 grants your character a special shirt and 1200 bonus points. There will also be a special leaderboard during the celebration, which displays the names of the top-100 mission solvers.

JoystiqThe Secret World is free-to-play next weekend originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Jul 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversaryea-gamesf2pfree-to-playFuncompcthe-secret-worldFri, 27 Jul 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Need for Speed World is two years old, have a fancy new car]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/24/need-for-speed-world-is-two-years-old-have-a-fancy-new-car/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/24/need-for-speed-world-is-two-years-old-have-a-fancy-new-car/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/24/need-for-speed-world-is-two-years-old-have-a-fancy-new-car/#comments Need for Speed World is two years old, apparentlyNeed for Speed World, EA's free-to-play racing MMO, is celebrating two years of existence with a new car, double-XP week and the launch of the "free cam mode." The new car, a 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, will be handed out to all players for free. It's like My Sweet Sixteen, but all the guests get fancy cars and the party is for a 2-year-old.

Running today through Friday, July 27, players will earn double XP in every racing event, Team Escape and cop pursuit. Free cam, also available today, allows racers to control the game camera to take photos of their sick rides in action.

Now get out there and raid! Or, race, we guess.

Continue reading Need for Speed World is two years old, have a fancy new car

JoystiqNeed for Speed World is two years old, have a fancy new car originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Jul 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversaryEAElectronic-Artsmmoneed-for-speed-worldpcTue, 24 Jul 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Capcom's throwing a party and your fan art, music is invited (you aren't)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/capcoms-throwing-a-party-and-your-fan-art-music-is-invited-yo/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/capcoms-throwing-a-party-and-your-fan-art-music-is-invited-yo/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/capcoms-throwing-a-party-and-your-fan-art-music-is-invited-yo/#commentsImageCapcom is pretty bad at planning surprise parties. The first rule it's broken is "Don't put your plans on a big-time gaming blog" and the second is "Don't spoil the theme." Ryu is going to be so suspicious. Regardless, Capcom is celebrating Street Fighter's 25th anniversary - which lands on August 30 - with a call for fan art and remixes, to potentially be used in some sort of official capacity.

Capcom urges submissions to include the "anniversary" theme in a recognizable way, with "reflection and nostalgia" as main points, community manager Brett Elston writes on the Capcom-Unity blog. The full rules for art submissions are here, and the musical notes can be found here. The deadline for both contests is May 4, 11:59 p.m. PST.

JoystiqCapcom's throwing a party and your fan art, music is invited (you aren't) originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Apr 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>25th-anniversaryanniversaryCapcomfan-artmicrosoftmusicpcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3Street-Fighter-IVvitaxboxThu, 19 Apr 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[10-year anniversary Xbox 360 bundle found on Amazon France]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/10-year-anniversary-xbox-360-bundle-found-on-amazon-france/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/10-year-anniversary-xbox-360-bundle-found-on-amazon-france/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/10-year-anniversary-xbox-360-bundle-found-on-amazon-france/#comments "But wait," you might be thinking. "The original Xbox launched on November 15, 2001. The tenth anniversary was last year, why come out with a 10-year anniversary bundle now? What's the deal? Oh my God, can you hear this? Quit listening to my thoughts! Get out of my head!!"

Whoa, chill dude! The American launch was in 2001, but the console's European debut didn't happen until three months later in 2002, hence the 10-year anniversary bundle showing up on Amazon France in 2012. The €280.00 ($375.50) package comes with a 250-gb Xbox 360, two wireless controllers, a boxed copy of Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary, digital versions of Halo: Reach, Gears of War 2 and Fable 3, as well as a 3-month Xbox Live Gold membership card.

The bundle is set to ship on March 9, and while we appreciate the sentiment and everything, we can't help but feel like a 360 reproduction of this might have been a more touching tribute. Make it happen, Microsoft. We'll give you money.

Joystiq10-year anniversary Xbox 360 bundle found on Amazon France originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Feb 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>10-year-anniversaryamazon-franceanniversarybundlefable-3fable-iiiGears-of-war-2gow2halohalo-combat-evolved-anniversaryhalo-reachmicrosoftxboxFri, 24 Feb 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Mega Man X iOS hides 25th anniversary logo]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/rumor-mega-man-x-ios-hides-25th-anniversary-logo/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/rumor-mega-man-x-ios-hides-25th-anniversary-logo/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/rumor-mega-man-x-ios-hides-25th-anniversary-logo/#comments He's just so happy. According to Universal Gamer (translated), there's something of a surprise hidden in the iOS version of Mega Man X. Specifically, the site has uncovered a logo for the Blue Bomber's 25th Anniversary. Of course, just what Capcom plans to do for Mega Man's anniversary remains to be seen, with Capcom's Christian Svensson promising in October only that "things" are being planned.

We can only hope the company will do a better job than it did with Mega Man's 24th anniversary last year. You know, when it cancelled development on every known Mega Man project.

JoystiqRumor: Mega Man X iOS hides 25th anniversary logo originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarycapcomiosiphonemega-manmega-man-25th-anniversarymega-man-xmobileWed, 11 Jan 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Remember Diablo with new 15 year anniversary website]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/05/remember-diablo-with-new-15-year-anniversary-website/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/05/remember-diablo-with-new-15-year-anniversary-website/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/05/remember-diablo-with-new-15-year-anniversary-website/#comments Stay a while and ... you know the rest In celebration of fifteen years of Diablo -- the original came out all the way back in 1996 (!) -- Blizzard has launched a special anniversary website. The site has all kinds of Diablo-related content, from a timeline of the entire series, cutscenes from Diablo 2, video interviews and a lengthy video retrospective.

Of particular interest is an interview with Diablo 3 director Jay Wilson, who states, "We're almost done with Diablo 3 and that's a fitting celebration of the 15 year anniversary." He adds, "We'll get it to you as soon as we can." In related news, 2014 is going to be one hell of a year.

JoystiqRemember Diablo with new 15 year anniversary website originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Jan 2012 21:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>15th-anniversaryanniversaryblizzardblizzard-entertainmentdiabloDiablo-3jay-wilsonmacpcThu, 05 Jan 2012 21:15:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Grand Theft Auto 3 now available on iOS/Android]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/15/psa-grand-theft-auto-3-now-available-on-ios-android/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/15/psa-grand-theft-auto-3-now-available-on-ios-android/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/15/psa-grand-theft-auto-3-now-available-on-ios-android/#comments As promised, Rockstar's mobile version of its seminal open-world crime sim, Grand Theft Auto 3: 10 Year Anniversary Edition, has arrived on iOS and select Android platforms. The game will run you $5, a price point low enough to console you when the torment of virtual buttons becomes too painful.

Continue reading PSA: Grand Theft Auto 3 now available on iOS/Android

JoystiqPSA: Grand Theft Auto 3 now available on iOS/Android originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Dec 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidanniversarygrand-theft-auto-3grand-theft-auto-3-10th-anniversary-editioniosipadiphonemobilepsarockstarrockstar-gamesThu, 15 Dec 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The 10 best GameCube exclusives (other than the obvious)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/18/the-10-best-gamecube-exclusives-other-than-the-obvious/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/18/the-10-best-gamecube-exclusives-other-than-the-obvious/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/18/the-10-best-gamecube-exclusives-other-than-the-obvious/#comments Three days ago marked the Xbox's tenth anniversary -- which means today is the GameCube's tenth. Those two systems are emblematic of the rift between "core" and "casual" gaming that formed seemingly around them -- nobody really thought there was a difference in previous generations, but the contrast between the Mountain Dew-green, imposing Xbox and the family-friendly, lunchbox-shaped, honestly adorable GameCube underscored the growing divide.

Just as we did with the Xbox, we're celebrating the GameCube today with a look at ten of its exclusive titles. More of these led to sequels and ports elsewhere, but in almost every case, there was some aspect of the game that never "clicked" away from the GameCube. Oh, and we're not listing the obvious ones. Yes, we all liked Smash Bros. and Zelda. Where's the fun in bringing those up again?

After the break, find an utterly arbitrary list of GameCube games we liked. But first, we have to begin properly: like this.

Continue reading The 10 best GameCube exclusives (other than the obvious)

JoystiqThe 10 best GameCube exclusives (other than the obvious) originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Nov 2011 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarybaten-kaitoschibi-robocubivoreDonkey-Kong-Jungle-Beateternal-darknessfinal-fantasy-crystal-chroniclesgamecubemetal-gear-solid-the-twin-snakesmr-driller-drill-landphantasy-star-online-episode-3pn-03Fri, 18 Nov 2011 18:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Zelda, Robin Williams and his beard in Four Swords commercial]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/09/zelda-robin-williams-and-his-beard-in-four-swords-commercial/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/09/zelda-robin-williams-and-his-beard-in-four-swords-commercial/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/09/zelda-robin-williams-and-his-beard-in-four-swords-commercial/#comments
Robin Williams, his beard, and their daughter Zelda are no strangers to 3DS commercials, and now the three of them are back to promote the DSiWare launch of The Legend of Zelda: Four Swords Anniversary Edition. Be warned, however. This commercial's ending may shock those with weak constitutions.

JoystiqZelda, Robin Williams and his beard in Four Swords commercial originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 09 Oct 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsanniversaryanniversary-editionbeardDSiWareFour-SwordsFour-Swords-Adventuresnintendorobin-williamsrobin-williams-beardThe-Legend-of-Zelda-Four-Swords-Adventureszeldazelda-williamsSun, 09 Oct 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Relic Entertainment holds charity auction to mark developer Brian Wood's death]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/relic-entertainment-holds-charity-auction-to-mark-developer-bria/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/relic-entertainment-holds-charity-auction-to-mark-developer-bria/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/relic-entertainment-holds-charity-auction-to-mark-developer-bria/#comments A signed Xbox up for auction to commemorate Brian Wood's death. If you've finished the game, you'll know that Relic Entertainment's recently released Warhammer 40000: Space Marine is dedicated to developer Brian Wood, who passed away in a car accident last year (but not before turning the car so that his pregnant wife would survive the wreck). This week happens to mark the one year anniversary of Wood's death, and to honor him, Relic has started up a set of eBay auctions featuring a number of Space Marine and Relic-related goodies, from signed posters and game copies to even consoles and other promotional items.

Most of the auctions end in about four days on Sunday, and plenty of the items only have a few bids so far. All of the money will go to setting up a memorial bench for Wood in Vancouver, where his wife and now 9-month old daughter live. The company has also set up a memorial trust in his honor, as well as an in-company internship. This auction is a great way to show your support for Wood's legacy, and get some one-of-a-kind Relic gear to boot.

JoystiqRelic Entertainment holds charity auction to mark developer Brian Wood's death originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Sep 2011 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversaryauctionbrian-woodcharityebaymicrosoftpcplaystationps3relic-entertainmentwarhammer-40k-space-marinexboxThu, 08 Sep 2011 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo celebrates Zelda's 25th with new website]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/nintendo-celebrates-zeldas-25th-with-new-website/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/nintendo-celebrates-zeldas-25th-with-new-website/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/nintendo-celebrates-zeldas-25th-with-new-website/#comments To celebrate 25 years of Octorok abuse, Nintendo has launched a commemorative website. The Zelda 25th Anniversary site is home to a mess of goodies aimed at your nostalgia core, including an interactive history of the series, some wallpapers and a video of the 2011 E3 keynote where a live symphony played music from the games.

For you more artistic types, Nintendo is also asking for your Zelda-themed Flipnote Studios animations, with the best entries receiving top billing on the Zelda 25th site. You can also send in a paper drawing, if you prefer, but we don't know if that'll actually make it onto the site. Flipnote Studios, as you may recall, is available as a free download on the DSi and DSi XL. Nintendo will take submissions from now on through September 9.

The 25th Anniversary site is live right now, so click over if you're looking to take a trip down memory lane. Or, if you're like us and have had enough, feel free to sign our petition. If we don't help the Octorok, who will?!

JoystiqNintendo celebrates Zelda's 25th with new website originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Aug 2011 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>25th-anniversaryanniversarydsflipnote-studioslegend-of-zeldaLegend-of-Zelda-2010nintendothe-legend-of-zeldaThe-Legend-of-Zelda-Skyward-SwordwiizeldaMon, 08 Aug 2011 17:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Bungie gives out blue flaming helmets in Halo: Reach]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/23/bungie-gives-out-blue-flaming-helmets-in-halo-reach/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/23/bungie-gives-out-blue-flaming-helmets-in-halo-reach/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/23/bungie-gives-out-blue-flaming-helmets-in-halo-reach/#comments You know, when we think about heads on fire, we don't think about Bungie's illustrious flaming helmets in Halo. It's because we could never have one; we're not Bungie employees. Now we all can enjoy the loss of tactical advantage that only comes from having a head on fire!

Bungie's giving the flaming helmets in Halo: Reach (plus a special name plate) to anyone who registers on Bungie.net or through the recently released iOS app -- you have until "the close of Bungie Day" on July 7 to get yours. Oh, and if you're wondering about Bungie Aerospace, keep wondering: Bungie's still not talking.

Hit the jump for a PSA video produced by Bungie if you're looking for some more animated coverage.

Continue reading Bungie gives out blue flaming helmets in Halo: Reach

JoystiqBungie gives out blue flaming helmets in Halo: Reach originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Jun 2011 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20th-anniversaryanniversarybungiebungie-daybungie-studioshaloHalo-ReachmicrosoftxboxThu, 23 Jun 2011 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Blizzard turns 20, thanks fans for support]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/03/blizzard-turns-20-thanks-fans-for-support/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/03/blizzard-turns-20-thanks-fans-for-support/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/03/blizzard-turns-20-thanks-fans-for-support/#comments Blizzard Entertainment is 20 years old today. Instead of spending it quietly counting the billions of dollars raked in from World of Warcraft players, CEO Mike Morhaime and EVP Frank Pearce sent a message of thanks to Blizzard's loyal fans.

Continue reading Blizzard turns 20, thanks fans for support

JoystiqBlizzard turns 20, thanks fans for support originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Mar 2011 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarybirthdayblizzardpcWorld-of-WarcraftWoWThu, 03 Mar 2011 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Street Fighter 2 turns 20]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/03/street-fighter-2-turns-20/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/03/street-fighter-2-turns-20/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/03/street-fighter-2-turns-20/#comments Before the Super Turbo Hyper BBQ HD Ultra Mega Remixes there was just plain ol' Street Fighter 2, which celebrates its 20th anniversary this month. Capcom posted a birthday reminder for its classic fighter, which was born two decades ago in the arcades (remember those?).

Since 1991, Street Fighter 2 has seen six arcade iterations and near countless ports across consoles, PCs and handhelds (Tiger even!). Chances are you've played the game a time or two ... and had your pixelated butt unceremoniously handed to you.

JoystiqStreet Fighter 2 turns 20 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Mar 2011 11:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarycapcommicrosoftplaystationps3Street-Fighter-2street-fighter-2-hdsuper-street-fighter-2-turbo-hd-remixsuper-street-fighter-ii-turbo-hd-remixSuper-Street-Fighter-IVxboxThu, 03 Mar 2011 11:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Sega teases Sonic and Puyo Puyo anniversary projects]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/03/sega-teases-sonic-and-puyo-puyo-anniversary-projects/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/03/sega-teases-sonic-and-puyo-puyo-anniversary-projects/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/03/sega-teases-sonic-and-puyo-puyo-anniversary-projects/#comments2011 marks the 20th anniversary for two Sega franchises: the Compile-developed Puyo Puyo puzzle series (which technically wasn't even a Sega-published game until 1992), and something about a blue hedgehog with shoes on. Sega has plans for both series in this milestone year, according to a Japanese press release received by Andriasang.

According to Andriasang, Sega teased multiple "projects" for both series' anniversaries, though the nature of those projects is unannounced. The last Puyo Puyo game was 2009's Puyo Puyo 7 for PSP, Wii, and DS, so that series is ripe for another sequel. As for Sonic, it seems safe to assume we'll see a few Sonic games in 2011 -- not because it's a big anniversary, but because it's a year.

JoystiqSega teases Sonic and Puyo Puyo anniversary projects originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 03 Jan 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversaryjapanpuyo-puyopuyo-puyo-20th-anniversarysegasonicsonic-20th-anniversarysonic-the-hedgehogMon, 03 Jan 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Happy birthday, Mario! We share cake with Mario and Miyamoto at NYC's Nintendo World Store]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/07/happy-birthday-mario-we-share-cake-with-mario-and-miyamoto-at/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/07/happy-birthday-mario-we-share-cake-with-mario-and-miyamoto-at/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/07/happy-birthday-mario-we-share-cake-with-mario-and-miyamoto-at/#comments To celebrate the 25th anniversary of Super Mario Bros., Nintendo invited fans to celebrate with an incredible cake, adorned with recreations of levels from the game. Not only did Mario show up, but so did his creator, Shigeru Miyamoto, and NOA president Reggie Fils-Aime.

Continue reading Happy birthday, Mario! We share cake with Mario and Miyamoto at NYC's Nintendo World Store

JoystiqHappy birthday, Mario! We share cake with Mario and Miyamoto at NYC's Nintendo World Store originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 07 Nov 2010 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarycakedsmarionintendopartyreggie-fils-aimeshigeru-miyamotosuper-mario-all-stars-limited-editionsuper-mario-collection-special-packwiiSun, 07 Nov 2010 17:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Torchlight PC discounted to $10 during 1-year anniversary sale [update 2: How to get the Mac version]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/27/torchlight-pc-discounted-to-10-during-1-year-anniversary-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/27/torchlight-pc-discounted-to-10-during-1-year-anniversary-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/27/torchlight-pc-discounted-to-10-during-1-year-anniversary-sale/#comments Runic Games' first release, Torchlight, came out on PC a year ago today, and the company is celebrating the anniversary with a sale. Starting today, and ending October 29 at 8AM PT, the PC version of Torchlight will be offered for half off on the official game site. That's $10 for all the dungeon crawling you can stand -- or mod, using the game's included editing tools.

Unfortunately, the Mac version remains $20, as Runic doesn't sell that version directly. The Mac version is only offered via Steam, and Runic informs Joystiq that Steam isn't participating in this particular sale. But don't lose heart, would-be Mac players, as Runic assures that a cross-platform sale will be held later this year (in case you missed the discounted Mac version the first time around). And don't forget: Torchlight will hopefully be out on consoles, too, before the year is out.

Update: Shacknews has discovered that the PC activation code for Torchlight can be registered on Steam, which unlocks the Mac version for play as well. Cheap Torchlight for everyone!

Update 2: Some users are reporting that the activation code is invalid on Steam, meaning neither the Mac or PC versions can be unlocked on the service. Shacknews reports that it used an older code obtained from Runic to confirm that it can be redeemed, however newly obtained codes may be invalid on Steam.

JoystiqTorchlight PC discounted to $10 during 1-year anniversary sale [update 2: How to get the Mac version] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Oct 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarypcRunic-GamestorchlightWed, 27 Oct 2010 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Club Nintendo celebrates Super Mario Bros.' 25th anniversary -- with pins]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/20/club-nintendo-celebrates-super-mario-bros-25th-anniversary/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/20/club-nintendo-celebrates-super-mario-bros-25th-anniversary/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/20/club-nintendo-celebrates-super-mario-bros-25th-anniversary/#commentsSure, we may not have the special Super Mario Bros. 25th anniversary Wii or DSi XL, or the Super Mario All-Stars re-release, but Europe and Japan don't have these pins -- or this screensaver.

The newest items in the Club Nintendo shop are these four commemorative Mario pins, each shipping in early November for a steep 450 Coins -- which means you can go ahead and forget about collecting them all. On the other end of the price scale is a new Mario screensaver, featuring footage from games throughout the series, which you can download for 10 Coins. Compared to the pins, it's a bargain! But it's also a screensaver.

JoystiqClub Nintendo celebrates Super Mario Bros.' 25th anniversary -- with pins originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Oct 2010 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversaryclub-nintendodsmarionintendopinsscreensaversuper-mario-broswiiWed, 20 Oct 2010 16:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Pac-Man to appear on Japanese food pac-kages]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/22/pac-man-to-appear-on-japanese-food-packages/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/22/pac-man-to-appear-on-japanese-food-packages/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/22/pac-man-to-appear-on-japanese-food-packages/#commentsFiled under: , ,

In honor of Pac-Man's 30th anniversary, Namco Bandai has entered into a co-marketing partnership with Japan's Meiji food corporation to create some very cute packaging for snacks and beverages. Starting next month, cartons of Meiji's coffee and fruit drinks, as well as its line of puddings, will bear Pac-Man imagery.

The enjoyment from these packages won't just be superficial. Each will come with a code allowing Japanese customers to download special Meiji/Pac-Man images for their cell phones. One on hand, we love this, but on the other hand, we can't help but think Namco Bandai's money would have been better spent on Pac-Man Battle Royale machines. For our office.

JoystiqPac-Man to appear on Japanese food pac-kages originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Sep 2010 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adsadvertisinganniversaryfoodjapanmeijinamco-bandaipac-manWed, 22 Sep 2010 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony discounting PSOne Classics for 15th birthday celebration]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/09/sony-discounting-psone-classics-for-15th-birthday-celebration/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/09/sony-discounting-psone-classics-for-15th-birthday-celebration/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/09/sony-discounting-psone-classics-for-15th-birthday-celebration/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Sony's rolling out the average-sized guns for its celebration of the original PlayStation's 15th birthday. In a recent newsletter, the company announced that select titles on the PSOne Classics storefront will be discounted on a weekly basis over the coming months. In addition, one of the early PSN titles, Super Rub A Dub, will receive a 50 percent discount starting today and running until Monday, September 20.

If you don't feel like spending any cash to join in the revelry, you can also pick up a free PS1 ornament (pictured above), with which to decorate your apartment in PlayStation Home, by visiting the Theater space. We sure hope Sony also releases a "Tower of Dave Matthews Band CDs" ornament and "A VCR With a Copy of Bio-Dome Stuck Inside" ornament, just so we can recreate that late-90s college dorm room experience.

Continue reading Sony discounting PSOne Classics for 15th birthday celebration

JoystiqSony discounting PSOne Classics for 15th birthday celebration originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Sep 2010 14:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversaryplaystationplaystation-homeps1ps3psnpsone-classicssonysuper-rub-a-dubThu, 09 Sep 2010 14:10:00 EST<![CDATA[30% of surveyed PS3 owners own more than 20 games, and other fun facts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/09/30-of-surveyed-ps3-owners-own-more-than-20-games-and-other-fun/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/09/30-of-surveyed-ps3-owners-own-more-than-20-games-and-other-fun/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/09/30-of-surveyed-ps3-owners-own-more-than-20-games-and-other-fun/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Did you know that Kratos is the most popular PlayStation character (with Nathan Drake a close second)? And did you know that 40% of PS3 gamers can't be in a relationship with someone that "gets in the way of their gaming"? Sony shared some fun facts for its 15th anniversary.

Joystiq30% of surveyed PS3 owners own more than 20 games, and other fun facts originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Sep 2010 11:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversaryfun-factsplaystationps3Thu, 09 Sep 2010 11:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo trademarks Super Mario anniversary logo]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/08/nintendo-trademarks-super-mario-anniversary-logo/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/08/nintendo-trademarks-super-mario-anniversary-logo/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/08/nintendo-trademarks-super-mario-anniversary-logo/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The 25th anniversary of Super Mario Bros' NES debut is only a week away. To celebrate, Nintendo of Japan has trademarked a new ... logo. Siliconera speculates that the logo will be appended to the upcoming Japanese re-release of Mario All-Stars (known as Super Mario Collection). But, why go through the effort of trademarking a logo for a single product? Presumably, the company will want to use this logo on all Mario games in the coming year.

While Mario's 25th anniversary should warrant a far more festive attitude from Nintendo, it doesn't seem like Mario actually needs the added attention. Unlike most other gaming mascots, Mario's popularity hasn't waned in the 25 years since the NES game -- a testament to how beloved an icon he truly is.

JoystiqNintendo trademarks Super Mario anniversary logo originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarydsjapanmarionintendosuper-mario-broswiiWed, 08 Sep 2010 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rare gets new logo for 25th anniversary]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/02/rare-gets-new-logo-for-25th-anniversary/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/02/rare-gets-new-logo-for-25th-anniversary/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/02/rare-gets-new-logo-for-25th-anniversary/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Click image for even more rarely seen logos

To celebrate 25 years of making games, Rare has touched up its old logo. Above, you can see the updated version, which will be featured on Rare's site when it relaunches "soon."

"Both Rare and the games industry have seen massive changes over the past 25 years, and right now it feels as if both we and the industry are continuing to evolve at an ever-increasing pace," offered studio head Mark Betteridge. "With this landmark anniversary coming up, and knowing that we have a really exciting future ahead, we felt now was the time to have a new image more in keeping with an innovative and creative entertainment company, which aspires to be around for at least the next 25 years!"

Well, here's to the first 25 years! We're grateful to have shared quite a number of rare moments over the years; from our younger days playing R.C. Pro Am on the NES; to Rare's contributions on the N64 -- you have no idea how many nights we spent playing GoldenEye and Perfect Dark; to the Microsoft acquisition; to the studio's reinvention of itself -- who ever thought a pseudo-cannibalism sim would be a hit? Good times and bad, we appreciate all of the hard work. Congratulations to Rare!

Gallery: Rare logo (25th anniversary)

JoystiqRare gets new logo for 25th anniversary originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Jun 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>25-anniversaryanniversarylogoMicrosoftrareXbox-360Wed, 02 Jun 2010 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Google celebrates Pac-Man's 30th anniversary with playable logo]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/21/google-celebrates-pac-mans-30th-with-playable-logo/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/21/google-celebrates-pac-mans-30th-with-playable-logo/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/21/google-celebrates-pac-mans-30th-with-playable-logo/#comments
 A playable ... logo? That's exactly what web giant Google has today, in celebration of the 30th anniversary of Pac-Man's Japanese release. The doodle (Google's term for its event and holiday-specific logos) is accessible on its main page and is a full 255-level game complete with a 256th level "kill screen," just like the original coin-op.

The interactive doodle -- a first for Google -- is the brainchild of senior user experience designer Marcin Wichary, whose earliest exposure to Pac-Man came at age five while traveling across his native Poland with his father, a game technician, to repair arcade machines. Wichary worked with Google doodler (yes, it's a real job) Ryan Germick to create the finished design.

So, for today at least, you can tell your boss: "I may be browsing the web and playing a game, but I'm also being part of something historic."

Note: Joystiq assumes no responsibility for any repercussions that result from playing Google's Pac-Man doodle at work.

JoystiqGoogle celebrates Pac-Man's 30th anniversary with playable logo originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 May 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarygooglegoogle-doodlesNamcoNamco-Bandaipac-manFri, 21 May 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSP celebrates 5-year anniversary]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/24/psp-celebrates-5-year-anniversary/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/24/psp-celebrates-5-year-anniversary/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/24/psp-celebrates-5-year-anniversary/#comments Happy birthday, PSP! Today, you're five years old. In that time, you've launched 520 games on UMD, 300 games on PSN, sold over 50 million units worldwide, updated your system firmware over 50 times, and gone through three hardware revisions (2000, 3000 and Go). So, think you have five more years left in you?

To commemorate this milestone, each of the Joystiq staff has listed their two most favorite PSP games over the past five years. Let us know what some of your favorites are!

Continue reading PSP celebrates 5-year anniversary

JoystiqPSP celebrates 5-year anniversary originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Mar 2010 14:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5-yearanniversarybirthdaypspsonyWed, 24 Mar 2010 14:55:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation brand celebrates 15th anniversary]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/03/playstation-brand-celebrates-15th-anniversary/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/03/playstation-brand-celebrates-15th-anniversary/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/03/playstation-brand-celebrates-15th-anniversary/#comments
What does 15 years of PlayStation look like? Sony Computer Entertainment Japan has opened a brand new site celebrating the legacy of the PlayStation platform, featuring a timeline of Sony's major gaming hardware releases, beginning with the launch of the original Japanese PlayStation on December 3rd, 1994. Sony's handheld holds a majority of those dotted events, with every version of the PSP (from the 1000 to the Go) represented.

The "15" year logo is a fun potpourri of various accessories released throughout the brand's history. In addition to SingStar microphones and Buzz! controllers, you can see Sony playing homage to UMD, PocketStation and rubber ducks -- stars of the initial tech demos for both PS2 and PS3.

[Thanks, tmacairjordan87]

JoystiqPlayStation brand celebrates 15th anniversary originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversaryhistoryplaystationps1ps2ps3pspsonyThu, 03 Dec 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Warcraft celebrates five years of domination]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/23/world-of-warcraft-celebrates-five-years-of-domination/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/23/world-of-warcraft-celebrates-five-years-of-domination/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/23/world-of-warcraft-celebrates-five-years-of-domination/#comments
Alpha-build UI
Five years ago today, Blizzard unleashed the World of Warcraft, a scourge that went on to ruin countless lives and make venture capitalists around the globe throw millions at any monkey with an MMO idea. The game has sold beyond 8.6 million units in the US and that's not even accounting for the millions of players happily handing over $15 a month for an Azeroth fix.

The full cultural and financial impact of World of Warcraft can't yet be comprehended, as the phenomenon marches on into the Cataclysm. One day we may be able to grasp the myriad ways WoW has impacted gaming, but that date with epiphany appears to still be a ways off.

JoystiqWorld of Warcraft celebrates five years of domination originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarybirthdaymmoworld-of-warcraftworld-of-warcraft-anniversarywowMon, 23 Nov 2009 14:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Happy 4th birthday, Xbox 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/22/happy-4th-birthday-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/22/happy-4th-birthday-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/22/happy-4th-birthday-xbox-360/#comments Cruising the Twitters, as we are wont to do, we stumbled upon a revelation, courtesy of one Major Nelson. That revelation: Today is the fourth anniversary of the launch of the Xbox 360. Yes, just four years ago, on November 22, 2005, the Joystiq universe was just buzzing with excitement. There were freezing cold lines to wait in, boxes to open and new games to play -- in fantastic HD resmolutions! And then, of course, it began.

Check out a sampling of our Xbox 360 launch coverage after the break.

Continue reading Happy 4th birthday, Xbox 360

JoystiqHappy 4th birthday, Xbox 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 22 Nov 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarybirthdaymicrosoftXbox-360Sun, 22 Nov 2009 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Happy 15th Birthday, ESRB]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/29/happy-15th-birthday-esrb/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/29/happy-15th-birthday-esrb/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/29/happy-15th-birthday-esrb/#comments
Not only did this catch us off guard ... it makes us feel kind of old. Fifteen years ago today, the game industry got on the same page for one shining moment to propose the video game ratings organization, the ESRB, to Congress. It was a moving spirit of cooperation not seen again in the industry until everyone simultaneously decided to start charging $60 for games.

There have been a lot of good times with the ESRB since, but we think we'll always most remember when it tried to stop leaking the existence of games a year ago. How adorable.

JoystiqHappy 15th Birthday, ESRB originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Jul 2009 14:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarybirthdayesrbpoliticsratingsWed, 29 Jul 2009 14:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo celebrates one year of WiiWare]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/12/nintendo-celebrates-one-year-of-wiiware/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/12/nintendo-celebrates-one-year-of-wiiware/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/12/nintendo-celebrates-one-year-of-wiiware/#comments On May 12 of last year, Nintendo of America launched the WiiWare download service with Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: My Life as a King, LostWinds, Defend Your Castle, Pop, VIP Casino: Blackjack, and TV Show King. Today, on the one-year anniversary of that launch, Nintendo sent out a video featuring the highlights of the service's 81-game lineup.

For all the complaining Nintendo fans do about WiiWare, and Nintendo system releases in general, all the games presented in this video make for a pretty strong year of releases. In the press release about the anniversary, Nintendo gave us reasons to be excited about the next year of WiiWare, including Cave Story, Icarian: Kindred Spirits, Super Meat Boy, Cave Story, Bit.Trip: CORE, Cave Story, Final Fantasy IV: The After Years and CAVE STORY.

JoystiqNintendo celebrates one year of WiiWare originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 May 2009 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarycave-storyfinal-fantasy-iv-the-after-yearsicariansuper-meat-boywiiwareTue, 12 May 2009 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[It's-a Mario World: Two Years on Wii]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/22/its-a-mario-world-two-years-on-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/22/its-a-mario-world-two-years-on-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/22/its-a-mario-world-two-years-on-wii/#commentsFiled under:


As both game character and flagship intellectual property, Mario has long been the focal point of Nintendo's efforts. Thanks in no small part to creative genius Shiggy Miyamoto, Mario's adventures have ushered in some of the most pivotal games in the history of electronic entertainment. His moves have established and defined the entire platforming genre, and he almost single-handedly paved the way from 2D to 3D action-adventure games.

To put these landmark achievements into perspective, consider the Wii: This week marks the second birthday of Nintendo's current money-printing console. To what extent has Mario enriched the platform in the two years it has been sold out available? The increasingly casual (and characteristically generic) orientation of popular first-party titles like Wii Sports and Wii Fit have stolen some of the Nintendo spotlight from under the 'stach of our able plumber, and the marketing appeal of the Wii Remote has powerfully overshadowed the age-old run and jump control mechanic. Does Mario still sell games? Good god, yes. But how much have his games determined the success of the Wii? In this week's gallery, we examine the significance of Mario's Wii appearances to date. Enjoy!
It's-a Mario World is a weekly feature in which the ubiquity of Nintendo's flagship character is celebrated: We'll incessantly ruminate about mustache wax, debate the curious whereabouts of the princess and covet the luminous power stars strewn about the galaxy. Check back here every Friday to find out what strange and wonderful thing has got us tipping our caps.

JoystiqIt's-a Mario World: Two Years on Wii originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 22 Nov 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversaryanniversary-weekhappy-birthdayits-a-mario-worldjoystiqfeaturesmario-brothersreleasereleasessuper-mario-brosSat, 22 Nov 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Daily: At launch]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/22/ds-daily-at-launch/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/22/ds-daily-at-launch/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/22/ds-daily-at-launch/#commentsFiled under:

Yesterday was the four-year anniversary of the US launch of the DS. What was your opinion of the DS back in 2004? None of us knew back then what it would become today; we expected GBA-level popularity at best.

Were you totally lined up for a system on the first day? Did you wait until Christmas? Until Kirby? Or were you not drawn into the DS life until the Lite appeared? Whenever you got into the DS, we're glad you did, because we doubt you would be part of our community otherwise.

As for me, what finally sold me on the DS was Castlevania: Dawn of Sorrow. Luckily, the system got even more awesome after that!

JoystiqDS Daily: At launch originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 22 Nov 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarylaunchphatSat, 22 Nov 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Happy b-day, DS!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/21/happy-b-day-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/21/happy-b-day-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/21/happy-b-day-ds/#commentsFiled under:


Wow, has it really been four years since the arrival of the DS (in the US)? We suppose it's not too hard to believe, since the system has evolved from an awkward, gimmicky system anchored by a Nintendo 64 port to one of the most successful and influential consoles of all time. And it doesn't seem to be going away anytime soon, thanks to occasional product refreshes (and an unprecedented, constant rush of brilliant games)

We suggest celebrating the best system ever today by going back and playing some of those launch titles. Feel the Magic: XY/XX is still as weird now as it was then!

JoystiqHappy b-day, DS! originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Nov 2008 13:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversaryFri, 21 Nov 2008 13:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Warm Up: Expense]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/21/wii-warm-up-expense/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/21/wii-warm-up-expense/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/21/wii-warm-up-expense/#commentsFiled under:

So the Wii is two years old now. Huzzah! But looking back, with everything you might have bought for your system (excluding games), do you feel like it was a bargain? It was the cheapest of this generation's home consoles, after all, and the bargain aspect was played up by a lot of people. At this point in time, do you feel like you got a good deal on your Wii? Even if you don't, was it/is it worth it?

JoystiqWii Warm Up: Expense originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Nov 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversaryexpensepriceFri, 21 Nov 2008 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Happy 2nd birthday, Wii!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/19/happy-2nd-birthday-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/19/happy-2nd-birthday-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/19/happy-2nd-birthday-wii/#commentsFiled under:


That's right, boys and girls. Today is the 2nd birthday (we're going by North American release) for our beloved console, the Nintendo Wii. It's been a crazy ride so far, and next year is looking to be even better. We've had highs and lows, but, overall, we're still loving Nintendo's latest console.

What about you all? Did you see the Wii moving in this direction? Are you excited for the future? Bestow your birthday wishes in the comments below and let us know what you think!

JoystiqHappy 2nd birthday, Wii! originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 Nov 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversaryanniversary-weekhappy-birthdayreleasereleasesWed, 19 Nov 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Win a LBP Prize Crown by creating a birthday level]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/19/win-a-lbp-prize-crown-by-creating-a-birthday-level/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/19/win-a-lbp-prize-crown-by-creating-a-birthday-level/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/19/win-a-lbp-prize-crown-by-creating-a-birthday-level/#commentsFiled under:


Want to win a limited edition (virtual) item that almost no one else will be able to get? Well, here's your chance. To celebrate PS3's second birthday, Sony is challenging LBP players to create a level celebrating two years of Sony's black box. The rules are simple, but you must create your level by December 9th. Then, LBP community members will vote on their favorites.

Here are the rules:

1. Create an original LittleBigPlanet level celebrating the PLAYSTATION 3 second anniversary.

2. You must name your Level using this format. "LBC1 -< YourLevelNameHere >".

3. Publish your Level to the LittleBigPlanet online server at any time up until 11:59am PST December 9, 2008 when the contest closes.

4. Send an e-mail submission to community_support@playstation.sony.com and indicate your level name (LBC1 - < YourLevelNameHere >) in the subject line. Include your PlayStation Network ID along with the name of your Level in your e-mail submission.

Good luck!

JoystiqWin a LBP Prize Crown by creating a birthday level originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 Nov 2008 00:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarybirthdaylittlebigplanetps3Wed, 19 Nov 2008 00:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Opinion: What Wii has done wrong]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/07/opinion-what-wii-has-done-wrong/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/07/opinion-what-wii-has-done-wrong/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/07/opinion-what-wii-has-done-wrong/#commentsFiled under:

GameSetWatch has been running an interesting two-part column on the success and failure of the Wii in its first two years on store shelves (2nd anniversary arriving soon, read our 1st anniversary theme week here!). The second part of the piece, which focuses on the negatives, has a couple of interesting tidbits worth pointing out.

The first thing the piece focuses on is waggle and how the early promises of a more immersed experience for the gamer have not been fulfilled. We're willing to concede that, because of how great the console has sold in such a small period of time and how many developers and publishers have proceeded to churn out shovelware and dirty ports just in an attempt to cash in. There are always exceptions to the rule, however, with not only Nintendo showing us the amazing and unique things that can be done with the control scheme, as well as some other third party developers and their titles (Zack & Wiki, Let's Tap, and No More Heroes, just to name a few).

We won't spoil the rest of the piece for you, but, to be honest, it's really good. It calls the Wii out for a lot of its shortcomings, and not in a totally biased tone. And, if bashing the Wii doesn't sound like an interesting topic for an article to you, read the first part, where it's nothing but Wii love.

Source - Two Years In - The Wii's Successes
Source - Two Years In - How the Wii Has Failed

JoystiqOpinion: What Wii has done wrong originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 07 Nov 2008 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversaryanniversary-weekfailfailurefailuresFri, 07 Nov 2008 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Three years of PSP history]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/24/three-years-of-psp-history/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/24/three-years-of-psp-history/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/24/three-years-of-psp-history/#commentsFiled under:


March 24, 2005. That was the day PSP was unleashed to the American gaming public. It's been a long and interesting ride since then. Come join us as we take a retrospective look on three years of PSP history.
  • What did the first PSP concept model look like? Find out.
  • When did PSP get its internet browser? Find out.
  • How quickly did the homebrew scene develop? Find out.
  • What was one of Sony's worst marketing disasters? Find out.
  • What importer was closed because it sold Japanese PSP systems? Find out.
  • How long did it take for PSP to get its first real price drop? Find out.
  • What sold 77,777 copies on day one? Find out.
Rewind to 2004! >

JoystiqThree years of PSP history originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 24 Mar 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarybirthdayjoystiqfeaturespspMon, 24 Mar 2008 15:30:00 EST