Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Microsoft teases Avatar motorcycle game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/28/microsoft-teases-avatar-motorcycle-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/28/microsoft-teases-avatar-motorcycle-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/28/microsoft-teases-avatar-motorcycle-game/#comments ImageMicrosoft's PlayXBLA site posted two "Secret Squirrel screenshots" depicting an unannounced Xbox Live game to be announced for real at E3. Of course, even without the title or any real details, we can get a pretty good idea of what the game's like: it's Avatar-shaped people racing and doing stunts on motorcycles in exotic, dirt-track environments.

With screenshots named "AMX_Mystery," the name "Avatar Motocross" seems like a safe guess. Regardless of the name, Xbox fans have proven definitively that they think bikes are neat - a trend that likely motivated the development of this mystery game.

Gallery: Unannounced MX game (XBLA)

JoystiqMicrosoft teases Avatar motorcycle game originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 May 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avataravatar-motorcrossmicrosoftmotorcyclexblaxboxMon, 28 May 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Darksiders 2 fashions head to Xbox Avatars]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/darksiders-2-fashions-head-to-xbox-avatars/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/darksiders-2-fashions-head-to-xbox-avatars/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/darksiders-2-fashions-head-to-xbox-avatars/#comments ImageDarksiders 2, which was recently delayed to August, has a collection of premium Avatar gear for the Xbox 360. We're not sure if "adorable" is a word we'd ever use to describe Death, but for 400 MSP ($5) the "Reaper Armor" is just about the cutest outfit (demonstrating demonic power) your Avatar could slip into.

Prices on the items and props range from 80 to 400 MSP ($1-$5), but there's also a free T-shirt designed by Joe Madureira available if you "like" the Darksiders 2 page. The shirts are limited by codes, so if you're jonesing for some Avatar swag better click on through to the other side.

Continue reading Darksiders 2 fashions head to Xbox Avatars

JoystiqDarksiders 2 fashions head to Xbox Avatars originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Avatardarksiders-2microsoftTHQvigil-gamesxboxTue, 24 Apr 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rampant Speculation Theater presents: Microsoft files for 'Avatar Famestar' trademark]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/19/rampant-speculation-theater-presents-microsoft-files-for-avata/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/19/rampant-speculation-theater-presents-microsoft-files-for-avata/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/19/rampant-speculation-theater-presents-microsoft-files-for-avata/#comments Last monday, Microsoft submitted a trademark filing for "Avatar Famestar" to the US Patent and Trademark Office. The application classifies the trademark for "downloadable software for video game services" and "providing an online portal for video game services and social networking," which leads us to believe it has something to do with video games.

What that something might be is anyone's guess, but you came here for our guesses, which are as follows:
  • Avatar Famestar will be a tri-platform XBLA/Windows Phone/Facebook photo-editing suite akin to Hipstamatic and Instagram, in which the user will be able to add her Xbox Live avatar into any picture uploaded into the service. Animated sparkling overlays and faux-Polaroid frames serve as monetized microtransactional DLC.
  • "Take control of your Xbox Live avatar as they audition for simulated singing and dancing reality shows, embarking on the musical journey of a lifetime in this Better With Kinect[TM] experience! Upload your audition tapes to Friendster and LiveJournal and let your friends hear the snarky British commentary delivered by Avatar Famestar's virtual judges! It's just like losing your dignity on national television, only without the brief candle of fame flickering in the distance! Pre-order today!"

JoystiqRampant Speculation Theater presents: Microsoft files for 'Avatar Famestar' trademark originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 19 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avataravatar-famestarmicrosofttrademarkSun, 19 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Threadless goes literally threadless with Xbox Avatar shirts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/threadless-goes-literally-threadless-with-xbox-avatar-shirts/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/threadless-goes-literally-threadless-with-xbox-avatar-shirts/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/threadless-goes-literally-threadless-with-xbox-avatar-shirts/#comments Your quest to make your Xbox Live Avatar look exactly like you has just gotten a bit easier, provided you own a bunch of shirts from Threadless (or don't mind buying one). The Avatar Marketplace now features a selection of classic t-shirts and hoodies from the retailer, all based on user-submitted designs.

Shirts sell for 80 MSP, with hoodies for 160 MSP, because they use more ... virtual ... fabric? You can try them all on at the Avatar Marketplace.

JoystiqThreadless goes literally threadless with Xbox Avatar shirts originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Jan 2012 20:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avataravatar-marketplacemicrosoftthreadlessxblmxboxWed, 25 Jan 2012 20:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live Avatar tattoos now available]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/04/xbox-live-avatar-tattoos-now-available/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/04/xbox-live-avatar-tattoos-now-available/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/04/xbox-live-avatar-tattoos-now-available/#comments Firearms may have been too suggestive a topic for the Xbox Live Marketplace to broach, but apparently body modification is an A-OK, family friendly activity for everyone to enjoy. Xbox Live customers now have the opportunity to trade real money for virtual tattoos on fake people via the Marketplace. Available designs encompass the whole of "regrettable," from hot-rod flames and meaningless "tribal" scribbles to idealistic kanji symbols for "peace" and "love."

We should point out that the tattoos aren't actually accessories, but rather t-shirts and tank tops with transparent design "sleeves" that replace your existing clothing, meaning that it's impossible to have a tattoo with anything other than a blank shirt. Tattoos are also arm specific, just like in real life, so make sure you're really committed to the placement of your "Mom" heart before dropping the Microsoft points.

[Thanks, Randy.]

JoystiqXbox Live Avatar tattoos now available originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Jan 2012 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avataravatar-marketplacekinectmicrosoftregrettattooxboxWed, 04 Jan 2012 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Look at these adorable Avatar awards for Japan's Metal Gear Solid HD Collection]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/05/look-at-these-adorable-avatar-awards-for-japans-metal-gear-soli/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/05/look-at-these-adorable-avatar-awards-for-japans-metal-gear-soli/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/05/look-at-these-adorable-avatar-awards-for-japans-metal-gear-soli/#comments There may be only a very small handful of Xbox 360 devotees living in Japan, but Kojima Productions doesn't want them feeling totally left out of the upcoming Metal Gear Solid HD Collection. While 360 owners won't be treated to the same free download of Metal Gear Solid 1 that PlayStation owners get, they will have the option of unlocking several MGS-themed Avatar items. Better news? All of the items are simply adorable. Just look at that tank box!

Continue reading Look at these adorable Avatar awards for Japan's Metal Gear Solid HD Collection

JoystiqLook at these adorable Avatar awards for Japan's Metal Gear Solid HD Collection originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Oct 2011 05:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avataravatar-awardskojima-productionskonamimetal-gear-solid-hd-collectionmicrosoftxblaxboxxbox-livexbox-live-arcadeWed, 05 Oct 2011 05:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Robocop avatar items are part Avatar, part machine, all cop]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/22/robocop-avatar-items-are-part-avatar-part-machine-all-cop/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/22/robocop-avatar-items-are-part-avatar-part-machine-all-cop/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/22/robocop-avatar-items-are-part-avatar-part-machine-all-cop/#comments
We're always vaguely shocked when something genuinely awesome happens on the Avatar Marketplace, since the very idea of paying for promotional items for the little you on your Dashboard seems to negate awesomeness.

But there it is. Robocop avatar items, promoting nothing, apropos of nothing and available, as far as we can tell, just in case people want Robocop suits, OCP t-shirts, or little ED-209 pets. Something about the randomness of it -- "hey, here's Avatar stuff from that one movie from 1987!" -- is appealing.

Something else appealing about this: the trailer above was actually a contest-winning fan creation, by Giant Bomb user MoleyUK. The gear will be out August 25.

JoystiqRobocop avatar items are part Avatar, part machine, all cop originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 22 Aug 2011 10:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avataravatar-marketplacebeefy-mediamicrosoftrobocopxboxMon, 22 Aug 2011 10:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Oblivion expansions, Fallout 3 DLC half off on XBL this week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/24/oblivion-expansions-fallout-3-dlc-half-off-on-xbl-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/24/oblivion-expansions-fallout-3-dlc-half-off-on-xbl-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/24/oblivion-expansions-fallout-3-dlc-half-off-on-xbl-this-week/#comments It's been nearly five years, but that notorious Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion "Horse Armor" DLC is finally on sale. Along with the "Shivering Isles" and "Knights of the Nine" expansion packs, the equine armor is discounted by 50 percent as this week's Xbox Live deal.

Keeping with the Bethesda theme, three of Fallout 3's DLC packs -- "Mothership Zeta," "Operation Anchorage," and "Broken Steel" -- are similarly discounted, as well as a handful of Avatar items. There has never been a better week to dress up an Avatar as a Vault 101 wastelander and buy virtual armor for a virtual horse. Head past the break for the full list of discounts.

Continue reading Oblivion expansions, Fallout 3 DLC half off on XBL this week

JoystiqOblivion expansions, Fallout 3 DLC half off on XBL this week originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 May 2011 12:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatarbethesdabroken-steeldeal-of-the-weekdlcdownloadable-contentfallout-3knights-of-the-ninemicrosoftmothership-zetaoperation-anchorageshivering-islesThe-Elder-Scrolls-IVThe-Elder-Scrolls-IV-Oblivionxblmxboxxbox-livexbox-live-marketplaceTue, 24 May 2011 12:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Hitman: Absolution using 'Avatar' mo-cap tech, hollywood actors]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/12/hitman-absolution-using-avatar-mo-cap-tech-hollywood-actors/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/12/hitman-absolution-using-avatar-mo-cap-tech-hollywood-actors/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/12/hitman-absolution-using-avatar-mo-cap-tech-hollywood-actors/#comments Hollywood Reporter has managed to sneak in a few questions to IO Interactive game director Tore Blystad about the forthcoming Hitman: Absolution, and got an earful back about the development process. "We've designed a more stylized, more serious, and darker game this time around in both the story line and the visuals," Blystad told HR.

Blystad also revealed that his studio employed Giant Studios for the game's motion capture -- the same studio that James Cameron used for Avatar -- and that Keith Carradine (Cowboys & Aliens) and Marsha Thomason (White Collar) will be voicing two main roles. Carradine is Agent 47's antagonist this time around, while Thomason will act as 47's handler. Blystad's betting that the theatrical approach his studio is taking to voice acting and motion capture will dovetail nicely into the next Hitman film. "The hope is that the movie will be going in a similar direction, and then when they both come out they will speak the same language," he said.

In Absolution, Agent 47 finds himself on the run from police while simultaneously hunting "his most dangerous contract to date." As promised, more details will be revealed next month at E3.

JoystiqHitman: Absolution using 'Avatar' mo-cap tech, hollywood actors originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 May 2011 09:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatargiant-studioshitman-5hitman-absolutionio-interactivejames-cameronkeith-carradinemarsha-thomasonmicrosoftmocapmotion-capturepcplaystationps3square-enixtore-blystadxboxThu, 12 May 2011 09:34:00 EST<![CDATA['Family Game Night 4: The Game Show' got bored with board games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/03/family-game-night-4-the-game-show-got-bored-with-board-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/03/family-game-night-4-the-game-show-got-bored-with-board-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/03/family-game-night-4-the-game-show-got-bored-with-board-games/#comments The crazy thing is: Yahtzee played with a giant rubber bawl and bowling pins, instead of the traditional cup and dice, is actually a better idea for a video game -- especially one compatible with Kinect and PlayStation Move.

The crazier thing is: The Family Game Night 4 video game includes fewer than half of the minigames featured in the Family Game Night television game show on which it's based. You can't even begin to imagine how "Operation Relay" is going to work in your living room -- you just have to wait for the EA Hasbro division's next sequel.

Family Game Night 4: The Game Show will be released this fall for Wii, Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3, and features support for motion control on all three platforms. It includes five minigames adapted from The Hub channel's Family Game Night game show, including "Bop-It Boptagon," "Connect 4 Basketball," "Scrabble Flash," "Sorry! Sliders" and "Yahtzee Bowling."

[Image credit: Hub Television Networks]

Joystiq'Family Game Night 4: The Game Show' got bored with board games originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 May 2011 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatareaea-hasbrofamily-game-night-4hasbrokinectmicrosoftmiinintendoplaystationplaystation-moveps3wiixboxTue, 03 May 2011 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[James Cameron says 3D being propelled by video games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/25/james-cameron-says-3d-being-propelled-by-video-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/25/james-cameron-says-3d-being-propelled-by-video-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/25/james-cameron-says-3d-being-propelled-by-video-games/#comments Speaking at the 2011 National Association of Broadcasters conference, director James Cameron had a lot to say about 3D display technology. After announcing the founding of his own 3D tech company, the Cameron-Pace Group, Cameron talked about gaming's role in the industry's growth. In an interview with Yahoo, Cameron sung the praises of the 3DS, saying, "Video games are going to help propel the autostereoscopic (glasses-free) play because that's going to be the entry level for most people."

Cameron seems to think that the 3DS is a kind of gateway drug to harder 3D displays. He added, "These single-viewing devices that are engaging the person to play these video games will drive a lot of investment in autostereoscopic displays for that very reason." Wow, Mr. Cameron's just chock-full of good ideas! In fact, later in the interview, he said, "I'd love to do an MMORPG experience inside the Avatar universe and I would like to see it authored in 3D." Oh, no. Oh. No.

JoystiqJames Cameron says 3D being propelled by video games originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Apr 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d3dsavatardsjames-cameronnintendoMon, 25 Apr 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PowerUP Heroes listed by Ubisoft as Kinect Avatar brawler]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/15/powerup-heroes-listed-by-ubisoft-as-kinect-avatar-brawler/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/15/powerup-heroes-listed-by-ubisoft-as-kinect-avatar-brawler/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/15/powerup-heroes-listed-by-ubisoft-as-kinect-avatar-brawler/#comments After the dismal Fighters Uncaged, the words "Ubisoft," "Kinect" and "fighting" have not been uttered in the same sentence here at the 'Stiq, for fear of summoning a sequel to the game. We must now use them, though, to describe what Ubisoft has -- perhaps unintentionally -- revealed via its web store: a Kinect fighting game called PowerUP Heroes coming "summer 2011."

According to the description provided, the title will let players transform their Xbox 360 Avatars into superheroes, acquiring the abilities of defeated foes by taking their "super suits," Mega Man style. Mentioned are a necromancer suit that summons skeletons and a mentalist getup that can "break into your enemy's mind."

The listing also includes a price: $50, so we're talking a full retail title here. We're contacting Ubisoft to find out what more we can about this Kinect fighting game. Gah -- we did it again!

JoystiqPowerUP Heroes listed by Ubisoft as Kinect Avatar brawler originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Mar 2011 14:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatarfightingkinectmicrosoftpowerup-heroesubisoftxboxTue, 15 Mar 2011 14:10:00 EST<![CDATA['Unleash' your Xbox Avatar with wall graphics and figures]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/04/unleash-your-xbox-avatar-with-wall-graphics-and-figures/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/04/unleash-your-xbox-avatar-with-wall-graphics-and-figures/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/04/unleash-your-xbox-avatar-with-wall-graphics-and-figures/#comments Admit it, you like your Xbox Live Avatar. It's like an action figure version of yourself. But what if you could have a real-life action figure of your Avatar? Wouldn't that be awesome?

If you want to indulge your more narcissistic tendencies, Microsoft has some new options to "unleash" your Avatar: Decorate your home with you -- get a custom wall print to make your Avatar larger than life; or have your Avatar stand proudly next to your GI Joe collection by ordering a miniature figurine; or even have your Avatar etched onto the back of a Zune media player.

Before you unleash, check your wallet. A "jumbo" wall print will set you back $150, while a 16GB Zune with Avatar etching costs $170. In comparison, the $60 asking price for a figurine doesn't sound so bad.

[Thanks Ben F!]

Joystiq'Unleash' your Xbox Avatar with wall graphics and figures originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Mar 2011 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avataravatarsfatheadfigureprintsmicrosoftmobilexboxxbox-livezuneFri, 04 Mar 2011 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft shows off prototype avatar that will haunt your dreams]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/25/microsoft-shows-off-prototype-avatar-that-will-haunt-your-dreams/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/25/microsoft-shows-off-prototype-avatar-that-will-haunt-your-dreams/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/25/microsoft-shows-off-prototype-avatar-that-will-haunt-your-dreams/#comments Microsoft's chief research and strategy officer Craig Mundie wants to show you the haunting bridge his team has built over the uncanny valley. Employing Kinect hardware and custom PC software, the research team at Microsoft has created an unnervingly realistic new avatar that can handle text-to-speech when combined with a script and can recognize the words in any order.

"This is a way to create a synthetic model of people that will be acceptable to them when they would look at them on a television or in an Avatar Kinect kind of scenario," Mundie told USA Today in a video interview. "There's no reason that we couldn't do that in real time by feeding the information that we get from a Kinect sensor, including its audio input and its 3D modeling, spacial representation, and couple that to the body and the gesture recognition in order to create a full body avatar, that has photo realistic features and full facial animation," he added.

This impressive (if not somewhat terrifying) demo is still very much in the prototype phase, however, and Mundie said it would be "some time before we see it show up in products." We're just hoping those first "products" aren't T-1000s.

Continue reading Microsoft shows off prototype avatar that will haunt your dreams

JoystiqMicrosoft shows off prototype avatar that will haunt your dreams originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 Feb 2011 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avataravatar-kinectavatarscraig-mundiekinectmicrosoftpcprototyperesearch-and-developmentuncanny-valleyxboxFri, 25 Feb 2011 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Red Dead Redemption multiplayer XP challenge for Avatar awards begins]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/19/red-dead-redemption-multiplayer-xp-challenge-for-avatar-awards-b/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/19/red-dead-redemption-multiplayer-xp-challenge-for-avatar-awards-b/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/19/red-dead-redemption-multiplayer-xp-challenge-for-avatar-awards-b/#comments With all of the planned DLC out the door and a shelf full of Game of the Year awards to display, you might think Rockstar is done riding the Red Dead Redemption train -- but not so fast, pardner. A Rockstar XP challenge is now underway in the Wild West shooter which has players collectively earning XP in the multiplayer modes towards unlocking special Avatar awards for Xbox Live and PlayStation Home for everyone. The items include system-specific versions of both the RDR T-shirt and John Marston's in-game Elegant Suit.

Of course, each system's goodies will only unlock when the totals for the platform are met. You can watch the bars rise on the official Rockstar Games newswire or Social Club site. What'er you waitin' for, cowboys and cowgirls? Get to yer XP earnin'!

JoystiqRed Dead Redemption multiplayer XP challenge for Avatar awards begins originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatarmicrosoftplaystationplaystation-homeps3Red-Dead-Redemptionrockstar-gamestake-twoxboxxbox-liveWed, 19 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: 'Avatar Kinect' Xbox feature to be unveiled at CES]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/04/rumor-avatar-kinect-xbox-feature-to-be-unveiled-at-ces/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/04/rumor-avatar-kinect-xbox-feature-to-be-unveiled-at-ces/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/04/rumor-avatar-kinect-xbox-feature-to-be-unveiled-at-ces/#comments Glimpse Dog received what it purports to be a snapshot of a leaked slide from Microsoft's CES keynote (seen above) showing off something called "Avatar Kinect." This by itself isn't all that exciting, but Winrumors believes that Avatar Kinect will be part of a forthcoming software update -- one that "will allow Kinect owners to interact with each other using their avatars" much like Sony's Home.

Furthermore, the site believes that "the Avatars will have a separate area, much like the Nintendo's Mii Channel, that will allow for users to control them using Kinect and interact to watch content or play games." Does this mean Kinect-based A World of Keflings wrestling matches? 'Cause if so, we're totally on board -- just as long as we don't have to queue for them.

We'll presumably find out more when Microsoft's CES keynote is broadcast live this Wednesday from Las Vegas.

[Image credit: Glimpse Dog]

JoystiqRumor: 'Avatar Kinect' Xbox feature to be unveiled at CES originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 Jan 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avataravatar-kinectavatarscesces-2011kinectmicrosoftsoftware-updatexboxTue, 04 Jan 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[XBL Deal of the Week: Avatar thrift shop]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/03/xbl-deal-of-the-week-avatar-thrift-shop/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/03/xbl-deal-of-the-week-avatar-thrift-shop/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/03/xbl-deal-of-the-week-avatar-thrift-shop/#comments Hey, remember all those super great deals on Xbox Live that capped off 2010? Those suckers are gone. Sorry, but the only deals you're getting this week are on assorted Avatar props and outfits, one of which is actually based on a game. And there's a rabbit suit. So yeah, Happy New Year.

Continue reading XBL Deal of the Week: Avatar thrift shop

JoystiqXBL Deal of the Week: Avatar thrift shop originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 03 Jan 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avataravatar-marketplacedeal-of-the-weekmicrosoftxblmxboxxbox-liveMon, 03 Jan 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Pre-order Halo: Reach Noble Maps at GameStop for flaming helmet, inconvenience]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/12/pre-order-halo-reach-noble-maps-at-gamestop-for-flaming-helmet/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/12/pre-order-halo-reach-noble-maps-at-gamestop-for-flaming-helmet/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/12/pre-order-halo-reach-noble-maps-at-gamestop-for-flaming-helmet/#commentsIf you pre-order the Halo: Reach Noble Map Pack from GameStop, you'll receive a Flaming Mark V Spartan Helmet for your Xbox Live Avatar.

Yay, free stuff -- but that's beside the point. The point is that GameStop is taking pre-orders on downloadable content. Isn't the reason for pre-ordering to secure a copy in case the store runs out of stock? Not ... really a problem for DLC. It would seem that GameStop's strategy for dealing with a scarcity-free market is to hope nobody notices the lack of scarcity.

The best part: This offer is available in-store, but doesn't appear on GameStop's website. So you have to go to GameStop to pre-order the DLC, and then go to GameStop again so you can get the code to download your map pack from Xbox Live. Unless you're a Power-Up Rewards member, in which case you only have to visit a GameStop once, and then the code is available to you online. That's ... more convenient.

Gallery: Halo: Reach (Noble Map Pack)

Anchor 9Anchor 9Anchor 9BreakpointBreakpoint

[Thanks, Matt]

JoystiqPre-order Halo: Reach Noble Maps at GameStop for flaming helmet, inconvenience originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Nov 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avataravatarsdlcgamestophaloHalo-Reachmicrosoftnoble-map-packpre-orderretailxboxFri, 12 Nov 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fire Pro-Wrestling pins Xbox 360 release with Avatar support]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/15/fire-pro-wrestling-pins-xbox-360-release-with-avatar-support/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/15/fire-pro-wrestling-pins-xbox-360-release-with-avatar-support/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/15/fire-pro-wrestling-pins-xbox-360-release-with-avatar-support/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Microsoft is hitting Japan right in its beloved franchises. Along with Radiant Silvergun, the company announced a new version of Human/Spike's long-lived wrestling series Fire Pro-Wrestling.

The twist this time is that instead of (legally distinct) simulacra of your favorite wrestlers, you'll be able to take to the mat with your Avatar. If you make a really big Avatar, do you have an advantage?

Gallery: Fire Pro-Wrestling

JoystiqFire Pro-Wrestling pins Xbox 360 release with Avatar support originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Sep 2010 22:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatarfire-pro-wrestlingmicrosoftspiketgs-2010wrestlingxblaxboxWed, 15 Sep 2010 22:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Sources: Kinect beta kits going out, Dashboard update live for participants (with pics!) [Update: and video!]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/26/sources-kinect-beta-kits-going-out-dashboard-update-live-for-p/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/26/sources-kinect-beta-kits-going-out-dashboard-update-live-for-p/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/26/sources-kinect-beta-kits-going-out-dashboard-update-live-for-p/#commentsFiled under: , ,

That email purportedly sent out by Microsoft a couple weeks back inviting its recipients into a Kinect beta program? Yeah -- it was legit. Joystiq has received corroborating evidence confirming the program, including pictures of the promised Kinect-enabled Dashboard update running on a participant's retail console. In them, you can clearly see the flatter presentation, new mini-guide and revamped Avatar editor -- complete with a re-proportioned Avatar.

Our tipsters clearly didn't read the included guidelines, pictured in the gallery bellow. Apart from the laundry list of methods via which participants aren't supposed to talk about the program, there's confirmation that Kinect hardware is indeed part of the beta, "is being packed" and will presumably be on its way to testers soon. These same sources report that the beta support site mentions Kinect Adventures, Kinect Sports and Kinect Joy Ride as titles they can expect to receive for testing purposes.

We'll have more on the program as its participants continue to refuse acknowledgment of Microsoft's terms and conditions. [Update 8/27, 9am: And we've got a video of the new Dash posted just after the break, featuring much more than the boot-up screen. Thanks, Bradley!]

Gallery: Kinect beta dashboard (8/26/10)

Continue reading Sources: Kinect beta kits going out, Dashboard update live for participants (with pics!) [Update: and video!]

JoystiqSources: Kinect beta kits going out, Dashboard update live for participants (with pics!) [Update: and video!] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Aug 2010 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Avatarbetabigparkdashboard-updatedashboard-update-fall-2010good-science-studiokinectkinect-adventureskinect-joy-ridekinect-sportsmicrosoftMicrosoft-Game-StudiosrarexboxThu, 26 Aug 2010 19:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Redesigned Xbox Avatar appears ready to Kinect with you]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/26/redesigned-xbox-avatar-appears-ready-to-kinect-with-you/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/26/redesigned-xbox-avatar-appears-ready-to-kinect-with-you/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/26/redesigned-xbox-avatar-appears-ready-to-kinect-with-you/#commentsFiled under: , ,

You know how sometimes people go "away" for the summer, and then when they come back they look ... totally different? Well, Major Nelson's Xbox Live Avatar didn't go anywhere but has seemingly undergone one such full body makeover -- as evidenced by the above comparison between the bobble-headed likeness (via Xbox Avatar Life) we had come to associate with the Xbox Live director of programming and his current Avatar. It would appear that Major's Avatar and perhaps other "VIP" Avatars are the (beta) test subjects in a forthcoming effort to transform the currently cartoonish Avatars into -- to put it candidly -- virtual figures that would look a lot less goofy in a motion-controlled sports game.

Recently, Rare senior programmer Nick Burton told OXM UK that Xbox Live Avatars would be proportionally redesigned to better connect the physical movements of Kinect players to their on-screen Avatars. Presumably, this "Avatar 2.0" update would occur in time for Kinect's November 4 launch and possibly as part of the expected, annual fall update of the Xbox 360 UI. [Update: Check out further details of the Kinect Dashboard update here.]

The new trimmer Avatars are visible in Rare's Kinect Sports screenshots below.

Gallery: Kinect Sports


[Thanks, Vanessa and Anthony]

JoystiqRedesigned Xbox Avatar appears ready to Kinect with you originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Aug 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avataravatar-2.0avatarsdashboard-updatedashboard-update-fall-2010kinectMajor-Nelsonmicrosoftxboxxbox-liveThu, 26 Aug 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Scott Pilgrim Strikes Back against the Xbox Live Avatar store]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/12/scott-pilgrim-strikes-back-against-the-xbox-live-avatar-store/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/12/scott-pilgrim-strikes-back-against-the-xbox-live-avatar-store/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/12/scott-pilgrim-strikes-back-against-the-xbox-live-avatar-store/#commentsFiled under: , ,

So, Xbox 360 owners can't get their hands on Scott Pilgrim vs. The World: The Game for about two more weeks -- however, rather than stew in a broth of your own jealousy, you can recreate all the action of the game by dressing your Avatar up like its mischievous protagonist. Well, maybe not all the action. A whole mess of stylish, Pilgrim-inspired duds were recently added to the Avatar storefront, including Scott's ruby red bass guitar, Ramona Flowers' begoggled outfit and a handful of tees featuring sprites from the game.

Also added to the storefront were a whole bunch of Star Wars outfits as part of The Empire Strikes Back's 30th Anniversary celebration. If you felt like shelling out the cash, you might be able to mix and match the ensembles of Scott Pilgrim and Han Solo, thereby creating the raddest fictional character on the planet.

JoystiqScott Pilgrim Strikes Back against the Xbox Live Avatar store originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Aug 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatarcostumesmicrosoftscott-pilgrim-vs-the-worldstar-warsthe-empire-strikes-backxblmxboxThu, 12 Aug 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Lara Croft Avatar items and premium theme coming to Marketplace]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/24/lara-croft-avatar-items-and-premium-theme-coming-to-marketplace/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/24/lara-croft-avatar-items-and-premium-theme-coming-to-marketplace/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/24/lara-croft-avatar-items-and-premium-theme-coming-to-marketplace/#commentsFiled under: , ,

If your anticipation for the co-op treasure-plundering action of Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light is so strong that you're seeking for outlets through which to give Crystal Dynamics money, here's your chance. A handful of Avatar items based on the XBLA title will arrive on the Xbox Live Marketplace July 29. The particulars and prices of these items have yet to be revealed, though a handful of images posted in the gallery below indicate costumes for Lara, her partner-in-raiding Totec, a Tomb Raider-themed T-shirt, a hideous matted wig and ... some kind of ... demon suit.

The background featured in these images is actually available on the Marketplace today for 240 MSP, under the title "The Lava Tomb." It's perfect for those who think their menu navigation experience could use a bit more molten rock and ugly statuettes.

Gallery: Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light Avatar items

Continue reading Lara Croft Avatar items and premium theme coming to Marketplace

JoystiqLara Croft Avatar items and premium theme coming to Marketplace originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 24 Jul 2010 01:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Avatarcrystal-dynamicslara-croft-and-the-guardian-of-lightmicrosoftpremium-themessquare-enix-europeXBLMxboxSat, 24 Jul 2010 01:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Celebrate The Empire Strikes Back's 30th birthday with Xbox Live Avatar items]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/19/celebrate-the-empire-strikes-backs-30th-birthday-with-xbox-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/19/celebrate-the-empire-strikes-backs-30th-birthday-with-xbox-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/19/celebrate-the-empire-strikes-backs-30th-birthday-with-xbox-live/#comments Everyone should already be enlightened to the fact that The Empire Strikes Back turns 30 this coming Friday -- didn't you get that Facebook invite to our "Hoth The Chains Birthday Extravaganza?" (No? It's on its way.) If you're in the mood to celebrate the third decade of one of the greatest movies in existence, LucasArts has a pretty fun way for you to do so: by picking up one of the ten Avatar costumes and other miscellaneous Star Wars-themed accessories which will be available for purchase tomorrow on Xbox Live.

There's a selection of characters you'll be able to change your Avatar into, including an Imperial Snowtrooper, Boba Fett, Lando, Chewbacca, a Rebel Snowspeeder Pilot, Han Solo, Leia, Bossk, C-3PO, and an AT-AT Pilot. The additional props include a tauntaun pet, a ballcap with Yoda ears, and a lightsaber -- a green one this time around, for all those Qui-Gon Jinn cosplayers among us.

Gallery: Empire Strikes Back Avatar Outfits

JoystiqCelebrate The Empire Strikes Back's 30th birthday with Xbox Live Avatar items originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 May 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Avataravatar-marketplacelucasartsmicrosoftstar-warsthe-empire-strikes-backXbox-360Wed, 19 May 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ubisoft reports $76.2 million operating loss in fiscal year 2009-10]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/18/ubisoft-reports-76-2-million-operating-loss-in-fiscal-year-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/18/ubisoft-reports-76-2-million-operating-loss-in-fiscal-year-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/18/ubisoft-reports-76-2-million-operating-loss-in-fiscal-year-2009/#comments Ubisoft today released its financial earnings report to investors for fiscal year 2009-10 (ending March 31), reporting sales of €871 million ($1.1 billion) with an operating loss of €60 million ($76.2 million). CEO Yves Guillemot softened investor reaction by saying: "The global economic crisis had a pronounced impact on the video game industry in 2009, which contracted by nearly 10 percent year-on-year. Ubisoft's sales were hit particularly hard, falling 18 percent over the full year despite a stabilization in the second half of the year."

Ubi's Q4 sales were up 1.9 percent year-over-year to €210 million ($266.7 million), outpacing internal guidance by €10 million ($12.7 million). The company says the inflated numbers are due partially to "a strong increase in sales of Just Dance," the "ongoing exceptional performance delivered by Assassin's Creed 2 which sold-in nearly 9 million units during the year," and higher-than-expected sales of both Red Steel 2 and Avatar.

And Guillemot predicts a sunnier 2010-11. "We forecast a return to profitable growth in 2010-11 with positive cash flow generation, driven by a games line-up that is more closely tailored to growth segments based on strong franchises." He also notes his excitement for new technology driving increased sales, saying, "Lastly, the upcoming launches of new consoles, including Natal and Sony Move, should enable us to capitalize on the technology investments that we have undertaken in recent years and re-energize the casual games segment."

Source -- Ubisoft FY2009-10 Sales & Earnings Report (warning: PDF link)

JoystiqUbisoft reports $76.2 million operating loss in fiscal year 2009-10 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 18 May 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>assassins-creed-2avatarearningsfinancialsfy2009-10fy2010just-danceproject-natalq4-2010red-steel-2sony-moveubisoftyves-guillemotTue, 18 May 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Avatar sets Blu-ray sales record, sells 2.7 million in four days]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/27/avatar-sets-blu-ray-sales-record-sells-2-7-million-in-four-days/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/27/avatar-sets-blu-ray-sales-record-sells-2-7-million-in-four-days/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/27/avatar-sets-blu-ray-sales-record-sells-2-7-million-in-four-days/#commentsUnsurprisingly, Avatar has done extremely well during its home video run. In fact, James Cameron's movie has claimed the honor of best-selling Blu-ray movie ever, beating the previous title-holder, The Dark Knight. According to a report by Variety, 2.7 million Blu-ray discs were sold in the four days since its retail release in the US. (In comparison, The Dark Knight took 18 months to sell 2.5 million discs.)

Perhaps a testament to the growing demand for Blu-ray content, Blu-ray accounted for 40% of total home video sales for Avatar in the four-day window. That's a significant increase from the 25% market share The Dark Knight claimed over a year ago.

Avatar will most likely represent yet another sales benchmark when it is re-released on 3D Blu-ray next year. Thankfully, PS3-owning movie fans are already equipped with one of the few Blu-ray players on the market that will be capable of playing that disc.

JoystiqAvatar sets Blu-ray sales record, sells 2.7 million in four days originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 Apr 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatarblu-rayjames-camerons-avatarsalesvarietyTue, 27 Apr 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[THQ sending Wii and DS players into The Last Airbender's 'world of bending']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/07/thq-sending-wii-and-ds-players-into-the-last-airbenders-world/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/07/thq-sending-wii-and-ds-players-into-the-last-airbenders-world/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/07/thq-sending-wii-and-ds-players-into-the-last-airbenders-world/#commentsAvatar: The Last Airbender's move from Nickelodeon cartoon to live-action movie isn't enough to shake off THQ, publisher of games based on the franchise. The company has announced Wii and DS games based on M. Night Shyamalan's improbable film adaptation of the basic cable cartoon series, which focuses on a kid who uses wind-controlling powers (and an arrow on his head) against the Fire Nation.

The games will, of course, allow players to control the title character in segments. However, the story will be told "from the unique perspective of the antagonist Zuko, exiled prince of the Fire Nation, who embarks on a personal quest to capture the Avatar, a young boy named Aang, in order to regain his father's honor." A twist worthy of Shyamalan himself! Or not.

The Last Airbender "immerses players in the world of bending" (no, really, that's what the press release says) in June.

JoystiqTHQ sending Wii and DS players into The Last Airbender's 'world of bending' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Apr 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avataravatar-the-last-airbenderDSNintendorelease-datethe-last-airbenderthqWiiWed, 07 Apr 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live April schedule: Final Fight, Mega Man 10 DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/06/xbox-live-april-schedule-final-fight-mega-man-10-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/06/xbox-live-april-schedule-final-fight-mega-man-10-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/06/xbox-live-april-schedule-final-fight-mega-man-10-dlc/#comments Microsoft has unfurled some of its plans for Xbox Live downloadable content for April, including new additions to Games on Demand and Deals of the Week, as well as the April 14th release of Final Fight: Double Impact.

On top of that, look for a half-priced The Maw on the week of April 12 and two add-ons for Mega Man 10 this week: Bass and Special Stage 1. Head past the break for the full list.

Gallery: Final Fight: Double Impact

Continue reading Xbox Live April schedule: Final Fight, Mega Man 10 DLC

JoystiqXbox Live April schedule: Final Fight, Mega Man 10 DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Apr 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Actionavataravatar-marketplacebassborderlandsbungieCapcomcrash-coursedeal-of-the-weekDevil-May-Crydevil-may-cry-4dlcFinal-FightFinal-Fight-Double-Impactforza-motorsportforza-motorsport-3games-on-demandgearboxgearbox-softwarehalohalo-3left-4-deadleft-4-dead-crash-coursemega-manmega-man-10MicrosoftProper-GamesPSNsaints-rowsplinter-cell-convictionthe-mawthqtom-clancys-splinter-celltomb-raidertomb-raider-legendtwisted-pixelvalveXBLAxblmXbox-360xbox-livexbox-live-arcadexbox-live-deal-of-the-weekxbox-live-marketplacezombie-island-of-dr-nedTue, 06 Apr 2010 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Equip your Xbox Avatar with free Modern Warfare 2 night vision goggles]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/02/equip-your-xbox-avatar-with-free-modern-warfare-2-night-vision-g/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/02/equip-your-xbox-avatar-with-free-modern-warfare-2-night-vision-g/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/02/equip-your-xbox-avatar-with-free-modern-warfare-2-night-vision-g/#comments Do you have any idea how hard it is for your Xbox Live Avatar to see when your 360 is turned off? It gets so dark in there without the console power button's emerald (or, sometimes, ruby) luminescence. Why not lend your tiny homunculus a hand by picking up the Modern Warfare 2 Avatar Night Vision Goggles, which Microsoft and Infinity Ward are handing out for free until Sunday, 11:59 pm PT?

It's a lot cheaper than constantly leaving your system turned on, and it makes it look like you're wearing Johnny 5's head as a sort of trophy, which is ... totally sweet, right?

Shortcut: Add the Night Vision Goggles to your Xbox 360 download queue [via Xbox.com]

JoystiqEquip your Xbox Avatar with free Modern Warfare 2 night vision goggles originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Apr 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avataravatar-marketplaceavatarsdealsinfinity-wardnight-visionxblmFri, 02 Apr 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sega All-Stars Avatar items are looking for sales]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/25/sega-all-stars-avatar-items-are-looking-for-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/25/sega-all-stars-avatar-items-are-looking-for-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/25/sega-all-stars-avatar-items-are-looking-for-sales/#commentsWe may not usually condone the capricious waste of Microsoft Points on Avatar frippery, but we must admit that the Sonic & Sega All-Stars clothing set makes a pretty good argument for the existence of Avatar clothes. And that argument is "here's Ryo Hazuki's jacket." It's available for men and women for 160 ($2).

The other available items strike similarly at the heart of Sega nerds, including Beat's sunglasses, a little AiAi-in-Monkey-Ball prop, and a Samba De Amigo sombrero! You can even buy a Crabmeat to decorate your virtual Green Hill Zone (by which we mean your dashboard). See the full set at Xbox Live Marketplace.

[Via Sega]

JoystiqSega All-Stars Avatar items are looking for sales originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Mar 2010 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avataravatar-marketplacejet-set-radiosamba-de-amigoshenmuesonicsonic-and-sega-all-stars-racingsuper-monkey-ballThu, 25 Mar 2010 17:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Kojima says Peace Walker is a 'test' for Metal Gear Solid series]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/28/kojima-says-peace-walker-is-a-test-for-metal-gear-solid-series/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/28/kojima-says-peace-walker-is-a-test-for-metal-gear-solid-series/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/28/kojima-says-peace-walker-is-a-test-for-metal-gear-solid-series/#comments Metal Gear series creator Hideo Kojima's recently-opened Twitter account has likely been a roller coaster of emotions for those among you who can read Japanese. Unfortunately for us, not speaking the developer's native language almost caused us to nearly miss out on all of his 140-character thoughts, not to mention a few recent Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker infobombs. Kojima said about the upcoming game (as translated by Andriasang) that "It's difficult to show the interest and freshness of PW [Peace Walker] through video. [James] Cameron's Avatar was a huge hit because of the 3D video. That can't be communicated through text and a trailer. It's something you won't understand unless you experience it for yourself in the theater."

Kojima further posits that Peace Walker is a "horizontal expansion" for the studio (read: gameplay) rather than a vertical one (read: graphics), all the while reiterating that the PSP isn't the "main platform" for the series going forward. He also says that the roast beef sandwich he had for lunch yesterday was positively delightful. (Okay, okay, we made up that last part.) He does, however, show some Duran Duran love. (And no, we're not kidding about that part.)

JoystiqKojima says Peace Walker is a 'test' for Metal Gear Solid series originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 28 Feb 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatardevelopmentduran-duranhideo-kojimajames-cameronmetal-gear-solidmetal-gear-solid-peace-walkerpeace-walkertwitterSun, 28 Feb 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Joy Ride slides into 2010, BigPark still tinkering under the hood]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/17/joy-ride-slides-into-2010-bigpark-still-tinkering-under-the-hood/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/17/joy-ride-slides-into-2010-bigpark-still-tinkering-under-the-hood/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/17/joy-ride-slides-into-2010-bigpark-still-tinkering-under-the-hood/#comments At E3 2009, Microsoft confessed to the secret Xbox 360 exclusive that (then newly acquired) BigPark would create: Joy Ride, a free-to-play, Avatar-based racing game. As you might have concluded after it missed its holiday 2009 launch window, Joy Ride has been delayed until later in 2010, though Microsoft wouldn't share anything more specific.

The full statement to Joystiq reads: "We're thrilled to have unveiled Joy Ride at E3 2009, which will deliver a revolutionary gaming experience to the Xbox 360 community and put your Avatar behind the wheel. We're committed to delivering the most robust experience to the community and are taking additional time to ensure we provide the best experience possible. We're looking forward to launching Joy Ride in 2010. Stay tuned!"

With a slew of upcoming media events leading up to this year's E3, we're sure to hear more about the title in the coming months and see how the extra development time has been put to use.

Gallery: Joy Ride

JoystiqJoy Ride slides into 2010, BigPark still tinkering under the hood originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Feb 2010 11:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatarbigparkdelayfree-to-playjoy-rideKinect-Joy-RidemicrosoftMicrosoft-Game-StudiosracingxblaXbox-360Wed, 17 Feb 2010 11:20:00 EST<![CDATA[NinjaBee's next game: A World of Keflings]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/ninjabees-next-game-a-world-of-keflings/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/ninjabees-next-game-a-world-of-keflings/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/ninjabees-next-game-a-world-of-keflings/#comments NinjaBee is working on a Kingdom for Keflings sequel, which takes the logical next step and is quite expectedly titled A World of Keflings. IGN has the first details of the follow-up that has "multiple kingdoms to explore, each with its own climate, resources, and culture."

A World of Kelings sound like it's the same gameplay you remember from the original ... just bigger and stuffed with more Keflings. NinjaBee President Steve Taylor says the game has "a new story focus, with new exotic lands, characters, quests, buildings, customization options, and a lot more." The game will release sometime this year and will feature local multiplayer -- a feature awkwardly missing in the original.

JoystiqNinjaBee's next game: A World of Keflings originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Jan 2010 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatarkeflingskingdom-for-keflingsMicrosoftninja-beeninjabeeworld-of-keflingsxblaXbox-360Fri, 29 Jan 2010 17:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninjabee's new XBLA Avatar game revealed this week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/27/ninjabees-new-xbla-avatar-game-revealed-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/27/ninjabees-new-xbla-avatar-game-revealed-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/27/ninjabees-new-xbla-avatar-game-revealed-this-week/#comments Remember the Avatar game that XBLA developer Ninjabee announced earlier this month? We still don't know much about it. Ninjabee has released some concept art on its blog but, as the weird bird above will attest, that hasn't been too helpful in identifying the project. Thankfully, there is some good news, as the company has announced that its next game will be officially revealed later this week (tomorrow, in fact).

Based on the art we've seen, we're guessing it's not A Kingdom for Keflings 2. Whatever it is, you can bet we'll be posting it right here as soon as it's announced.

JoystiqNinjabee's new XBLA Avatar game revealed this week originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Jan 2010 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatarninjabeewahoo-studiosxblaWed, 27 Jan 2010 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Ubisoft to spend less on licensed product, prompted by Avatar: The Game sales]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/20/ubisoft-to-spend-less-on-licensed-product-prompted-by-avatar-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/20/ubisoft-to-spend-less-on-licensed-product-prompted-by-avatar-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/20/ubisoft-to-spend-less-on-licensed-product-prompted-by-avatar-t/#comments Almost the entire internet is in agreement: Avatar: The Game isn't very good. The game hasn't sold as well as Ubisoft would've liked and, as GI.biz reports, the company is now preparing for a future filled with far less licensed product and more of its own franchises. The game is nearing two-and-a-half million units sold -- what would be considered a success for just about any other game out there -- around half of what Ubisoft initially expected from the "world changing" franchise.

"Our plan is to take more care of our high end franchises, we will leave less place for licensed games," Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot commented. He further added, "it doesn't mean we will stop but we're going to spend less in licenses in the future." And if Ubisoft's continuing work in the field of cinema is any indication, it might have more to gain from making films based on games rather than the other way around.

JoystiqUbisoft to spend less on licensed product, prompted by Avatar: The Game sales originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Jan 2010 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avataravatar-the-gameDSMicrosoftNintendoubisoftWiiXbox-360Wed, 20 Jan 2010 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox's Greenberg questions demand for at-home 3D]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/13/xboxs-greenberg-questions-demand-for-at-home-3d/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/13/xboxs-greenberg-questions-demand-for-at-home-3d/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/13/xboxs-greenberg-questions-demand-for-at-home-3d/#comments Over the course of this year's CES, it was easy to get swept up in the fervor around 3D technology. Not Microsoft's Xbox team lead Aaron Greenberg though -- in speaking with G4TV, Greenberg said he thinks "there's a lot of challenges about 3D in the living room." To Greenberg, it's not a question of technology (or lack thereof) that's holding back 3D, it's the home environment. "I don't know about you, but when I play games or watch TV, I've got my phone, I've got all kinds of things going on. I get up, I get down, I'm looking outside at the weather and it's ... I'm not in a dark theater, wearing glasses, staring at a screen. I think it's just a different environment."

This isn't to say Microsoft isn't flexible when it comes to consumer demand -- quite the contrary! "As consumer interest for 3D grows, we'll grow with it," Greenberg admitted. "I think right now we're unsure what level of interest there is from consumers to really want a 3D experience in the living room."

Currently, only a handful of games ( Avatar, Invicible Tiger, and upcoming XBLA racer Scrap Metal, to name a few) support 3D on Microsoft's console. "If it becomes really important and people want to do more with it, we're absolutely happy to support it," Greenberg assured. Of course, with plenty of resources currently invested in the development and launch of Project Natal and its motion-based technology, Microsoft certainly has incentive to keep interest in 3D at arm's length.

JoystiqXbox's Greenberg questions demand for at-home 3D originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 Jan 2010 14:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d3d-games3dtvaaron-greenbergavatarbusinesscesces-2010microsoftproject-natalscrap-metalxblaXbox-360Wed, 13 Jan 2010 14:27:00 EST<![CDATA[NinjaBee shows concepts for new XBLA game, playable with Avatars]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/05/ninjabee-shows-concepts-for-new-xbla-game-playable-with-avatars/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/05/ninjabee-shows-concepts-for-new-xbla-game-playable-with-avatars/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/05/ninjabee-shows-concepts-for-new-xbla-game-playable-with-avatars/#comments NinjaBee (makers of A Kingdom for Keflings, Band of Bugs and the underrated Outpost Kaloki X) has announced that it's working on a brand new title for Xbox Live Arcade, one that will allow you to play with your Mickey ear-wearing Xbox Live Avatar. There's no actual information about the game yet (not even a title, although we know it's not Ancients of Ooga, another NinjaBee game in progress), but as you can see from the concept art posted on its blog, there's an airship, a cute bird and a dragon involved. So: a cross between Final Fantasy, Twitter and Lair? Actually, we'd totally play that.

NinjaBee says an official announcement is coming at the end of the month, and it'll be releasing new concept art every week until then, so stay tuned for more.

JoystiqNinjaBee shows concepts for new XBLA game, playable with Avatars originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Jan 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>announcementavatarconcept-artdownloadablegameMicrosoftninjabeereleasexblaXbox-360xbox-avatarsxbox-live-arcadeTue, 05 Jan 2010 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[James Cameron says Sigourney Weaver is smoking to criticize you]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/04/james-cameron-says-sigourney-weaver-is-smoking-to-criticize-you/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/04/james-cameron-says-sigourney-weaver-is-smoking-to-criticize-you/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/04/james-cameron-says-sigourney-weaver-is-smoking-to-criticize-you/#comments We know you don't remember any of the parts in Avatar that weren't blue giants riding luckdragons, but take our word for it when we say that Sigourney Weaver's character Grace smoked in the movie. Director James Cameron told the New York Times that the character (who spends much of her day motionless and controlling her giant blue avatar) sports a disregard for her body as "a negative comment about people in our real world living too much in their avatars, meaning online and in video games."

We're assuming he means video games other than Avatar: The Video Game of The Movie That, Let's Be Honest, Is Pretty Much Already A Video Game and Not a Particularly Well-Written One At That. Naturally.

[Via Wired]

JoystiqJames Cameron says Sigourney Weaver is smoking to criticize you originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Jan 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatarjames-cameronmmorpgubisoftwowMon, 04 Jan 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Photoshoppers repurpose film posters for games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/31/photoshoppers-repurpose-film-posters-for-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/31/photoshoppers-repurpose-film-posters-for-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/31/photoshoppers-repurpose-film-posters-for-games/#comments
[Image credit: RiffRaff1138]
Care of the forum users at Something Awful, a gaggle of films posters recently got Photoshopped into video game iterations of themselves. Everything from Avatar (Mass Effect) to Jurassic Park (DinoPark Tycoon) got the treatment, though our favorite is undoubtedly what Schwarzenegger's Last Action Hero has become. Now if only someone could get to work on a Breakfast at Tiffany's-derived Bayonetta poster, we'd be all set.

[Via Kotaku]

JoystiqPhotoshoppers repurpose film posters for games originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 31 Dec 2009 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatarbayonettabreakfast-at-tiffanyscarmageddondinopark-tycoonlast-action-heromass-effectmovie-postersphotoshopThu, 31 Dec 2009 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Your chocobo Avatar pet is in the mail]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/31/your-chocobo-avatar-pet-is-in-the-mail/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/31/your-chocobo-avatar-pet-is-in-the-mail/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/31/your-chocobo-avatar-pet-is-in-the-mail/#comments Last month -- utilizing the spamming power of Twitter -- Microsoft and Square Enix partnered to offer Xbox Live users a free baby chocobo pet for their Avatars if they registered their Gamertags during the social media promotion. After weeks of waiting for the marketing plan to run its course, codes for the tiny companion have been sent to participating users via email. Sadly -- as Major Nelson points out -- those who did not participate in the promotion cannot get the pet, but we anticipate the baby chocobo will find its way onto the Avatar Marketplace at some point.

Reminiscent of the baby chocobo that nests within Final Fantasy XIII hero Sazh Katzroy's gorgeous afro, our baby chocobo only seems to flutter around, refusing to nest within our own Avatar hairdos. We presume that feature will be some kind of pre-order bonus for Final Fantasy XIII when it launches on March 9, 2010.

JoystiqYour chocobo Avatar pet is in the mail originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 31 Dec 2009 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Avataravatar-marketplaceavatar-petsavatarschocobofinal-fantasy-xiiifreeMicrosoftsquare-enixXbox-360xbox-liveThu, 31 Dec 2009 09:30:00 EST