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[New family-friendly Xbox 360 Arcade bundle and game discounts at Amazon]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/04/new-family-friendly-xbox-360-arcade-bundle-and-game-discounts-at/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/04/new-family-friendly-xbox-360-arcade-bundle-and-game-discounts-at/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/04/new-family-friendly-xbox-360-arcade-bundle-and-game-discounts-at/#commentsThere's still over a month of spring left -- that's plenty of time for a new "spring 2010" Xbox 360 bundle to join the Spring 2010 Elite set! Amazon has taken the wraps off a new Arcade bundle, featuring two of Rare's recent, weird 360 games: Viva Piñata and Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts. The family-friendly package, shipping May 7, sells for the same $199.99 as the standalone Arcade unit -- which makes it a good deal even if you would only use the games as trade-in or eBay fodder.

But if it's family games you're after, you can get them on the cheap right now. Amazon is also offering a buy one, get one half-off deal on a selection of family-oriented 360 games, including Pure, Lego Rock Band, and Sonic's Ultimate Genesis Collection.

[Thanks, Tom!]

JoystiqNew family-friendly Xbox 360 Arcade bundle and game discounts at Amazon originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 May 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonbanjo-kazooieBanjo-Kazooie-Nuts-and-BoltsMicrosoftrarespring-2010spring-2010-arcade-bundleviva-pinataXbox-360xbox-360-arcadeTue, 04 May 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 Platinum Hits lineup adds Halo Wars, Orange Box and others]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/14/xbox-360-platinum-hits-lineup-adds-halo-wars-orange-box-and-oth/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/14/xbox-360-platinum-hits-lineup-adds-halo-wars-orange-box-and-oth/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/14/xbox-360-platinum-hits-lineup-adds-halo-wars-orange-box-and-oth/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Xbox.com has listed several new games as Platinum Hits, including Fable II (aka Game of the Year Edition), Halo Wars, Left 4 Dead, The Orange Box, Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts, Ninja Gaiden II, Kung-Fu Panda, Sonic's Ultimate Genesis Collection, Sonic The Hedgehog, and Sonic Unleashed.

A Microsoft PR agent couldn't confirm the full list of new Platinum Hits (are we missing any above?), but said that if a game is listed as such on Xbox.com, it's a Platinum Hits title. The changes seem to have taken effect on major retailer sites, as GameStop and Amazon now reflect the discounted Platinum prices (if not always the the Platinum Hits branding), which range from $20-30.

With Orange Box requiring only one Jackson ($20), it's now literally a crime to not own it. Conversely, if you're dead-set on committing a crime, buy someone Sonic The Hedgehog or Sonic Unleashed at $20 each.

[Thanks, Stephen]

JoystiqXbox 360 Platinum Hits lineup adds Halo Wars, Orange Box and others originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Jan 2010 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActionAdventurebanjo-kazooieBanjo-Kazooie-Nuts-and-Boltsensemble-studiosfable-2halohalo-warskung-fu-pandaleft-4-deadLionheadLionhead-StudiosMGSMicrosoftMicrosoft-Game-StudiosNinja-GaidenNinja-Gaiden-2platinum-hitsrareRPGsegasonicsonic-the-hedgehogsonic-unleashedsonics-ultimate-genesis-collectionTeam-NinjaXbox-360Thu, 14 Jan 2010 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts now on demand]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/05/banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-bolts-now-on-demand/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/05/banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-bolts-now-on-demand/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/05/banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-bolts-now-on-demand/#comments Though we're on record as saying that a bear with a bird in his backpack is objectively a pretty stupid thing to make a game about, we're also able to admit that Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts is a gem that didn't get the credit it deserved. If you had been holding off because you were worried about the GameStop clerk looking at you like a weirdo, you'll be happy to hear you can now indulge your most taboo desires as the bird-backpack wearing bear has made his way to Games On Demand.

Go ahead ... your secret's safe with us.

Shortcut: Purchase and add Banjo-Kazooie: N&B to your Xbox 360 download queue [via Xbox.com; $19.99 in US]

JoystiqBanjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts now on demand originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Jan 2010 11:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banjo-kazooieBanjo-Kazooie-3Banjo-Kazooie-Nuts-and-Boltsgames-on-demandmicrosoftMicrosoft-Game-StudiosrareTue, 05 Jan 2010 11:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Yahuh! Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts soundtrack out tomorrow]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/29/yahuh-banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-bolts-soundtrack-out-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/29/yahuh-banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-bolts-soundtrack-out-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/29/yahuh-banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-bolts-soundtrack-out-tomorrow/#comments
If you're in the market for a delightfully bouncy orchestral video game soundtrack, then we've got some good news for you. Sumthing Digital will be offering the official Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts soundtrack starting tomorrow. We've sampled a few tracks and can confirm that it is most definitely delightfully bouncy and orchestral. All kidding aside, it's actually a pretty decent soundtrack, and certainly better than a lot of the other game music out there.

The soundtrack will also be available from Amazon, and can currently be pre-ordered for $13.99, nearly two bucks off the $15.98 list price. As Rare states on its website, "Nobody has an overabundance of vehicular bear music in their library right now, so this deserves a shot."

Source - Sumthing Digital
Source - Amazon

JoystiqYahuh! Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts soundtrack out tomorrow originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Jun 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banjo-kazooiebanjo-kazooie-nuts-and-boltsmgsmicrosoft-game-studiosraresoundtrackMon, 29 Jun 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Banjo-Kazooie Nuts & Bolts DLC trailer is bumming us out]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/31/banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-bolts-dlc-trailer-is-bumming-us-out/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/31/banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-bolts-dlc-trailer-is-bumming-us-out/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/31/banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-bolts-dlc-trailer-is-bumming-us-out/#comments We really hope the new Banjo-Kazooie Nuts & Bolts DLC, "L.O.G.s Lost Challenges," sells a lot of units. No, we don't have any financial stake in Rare or Microsoft, we just hope they can afford a better trailer than the one we've embedded just above.

Honestly, with that font and those production values, it looks more like an Olive Garden training video on making the perfect pasta than an advertisement for a game published by the world's largest company.

So, on April 7th, won't you please spend 400 MS points for 250 achievement points, 12 new challenges, 7 new multiplayer games and the satisfaction of knowing an up-and-coming studio won't have to post such a depressing trailer ever again? We think it's well worth it.

Gallery: Banjo-Kazooie: L.O.G.'s Lost Challenges

JoystiqBanjo-Kazooie Nuts & Bolts DLC trailer is bumming us out originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 31 Mar 2009 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banjo-kazooieBanjo-Kazooie-3banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-boltsdlcmicrosoftmicrosoft-game-studiosrareXbox-360xbox-liveTue, 31 Mar 2009 11:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Banjo-Kazooie DLC on the way, Achievements on Xbox website]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/24/banjo-kazooie-dlc-on-the-way-achievement-on-xbox-website/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/24/banjo-kazooie-dlc-on-the-way-achievement-on-xbox-website/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/24/banjo-kazooie-dlc-on-the-way-achievement-on-xbox-website/#comments
At the beginning of this month, a posting on the forums of Banjo-Kazooie developer Rare lead us to believe that we'd be seeing more content for the game a lot sooner than today. Whether we were mislead or simply employing the jumping to conclusions mat too liberally remains to be seen, but today the list of achievements for Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts on Xbox.com has been amended with 250 extra points, hinting pretty heavily at directly confirming the upcoming DLC and laying out details for some of it.

One such achievement, titled "L.O.G. Master" tasks the player with winning "all of the new multiplayer games" (emphasis on "new") while another, titled "Halfway Home," confirms the inclusion of "L.O.G.'s Lost Challenges" in the as-yet-unannounced content. While this achievement list certainly solidifies the future release of more Banjo-Kazooie content, we would certainly appreciate some more detail. So we reached out to Microsoft for comment and got this in return:

"Yes, these Achievements are connected to my upcoming add-on pack for Nuts & Bolts, but don't go thinking that this is all I have in store for you. Oh no, I have a few other tricks up my sleeve ... but looks like you eager gamers will just have to wait until the Day of Fools to learn more."

Looks like we're waiting 'til April 1st for all the hard facts. While this is a better response than "No Comment," is a straight answer too much to ask?

[Via CVG]

JoystiqBanjo-Kazooie DLC on the way, Achievements on Xbox website originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Mar 2009 23:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementsbanjo-kazooiebanjo-kazooie-nuts-and-boltscvgdlcMicrosoftmicrosoft-game-studiosrareXbox-360Tue, 24 Mar 2009 23:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Rare hints at Nuts & Bolts 'LOG's Lost Challenges' DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/rare-hints-at-nuts-and-bolts-logs-lost-challenges-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/rare-hints-at-nuts-and-bolts-logs-lost-challenges-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/rare-hints-at-nuts-and-bolts-logs-lost-challenges-dlc/#commentsIn its own coy way, Rare is teasing that Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts DLC is in the works and that we'll actually receive details next week.

According to a post by the Lord of Games (L.O.G.) on Rare's official website, we're told that Nuts & Bolts "news on potential lifespan-lengthening activities will be incoming very soon" and are given a "LOG's Lost Challenges" image. We ain't no smarty-pants geniuses, but if we had to take a guess at what L.O.G. is talking about, we'd go with DLC that boasts new vehicle building and task-based challenges.

Now that we think about it, the Banjo-Kazooie Contraption Contest Rare held back in December may have something to do with this content. We wouldn't be too surprised to see the winner's creation as a part of next week's announcement.

JoystiqRare hints at Nuts & Bolts 'LOG's Lost Challenges' DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Mar 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banjo-kazooieBanjo-Kazooie-3banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-boltsmgsmicrosoft-game-studiosnuts-and-boltsrareFri, 06 Mar 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon assembles $20 Banjo: Nuts & Bolts deal]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/04/amazon-assembles-20-banjo-nuts-and-bolts-deal/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/04/amazon-assembles-20-banjo-nuts-and-bolts-deal/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/04/amazon-assembles-20-banjo-nuts-and-bolts-deal/#commentsToday's Amazon.com video game Deal of the Day is none other than Rare's Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts and Bolts, which has been reduced to $19.98.

While some may see the reduction in price as a sign that Amazon.com wants to unload its unwanted Nuts and Bolts inventory, we're optimists in this situation. We predict the game has been such a success that most every 360 owner already has the title, so (to secure a few more game purchases) Rare partnered with Amazon to sell Banjo's latest adventure at a 50% discount.

Hey, we never said we were logical optimists.

[Via Aeropause]

JoystiqAmazon assembles $20 Banjo: Nuts & Bolts deal originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Mar 2009 14:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonbanjo-kazooieBanjo-Kazooie-3banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-boltsdeal-of-the-daydealsMicrosoft-Game-Studiosnuts-and-boltsrareWed, 04 Mar 2009 14:50:00 EST<![CDATA[NPD: Console exclusives performed with mixed results in '08]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/28/npd-console-exclusives-perform-with-mixed-results-in-2008/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/28/npd-console-exclusives-perform-with-mixed-results-in-2008/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/28/npd-console-exclusives-perform-with-mixed-results-in-2008/#commentsFiled under: , ,


According to the NPD, a good exclusive does not necessarily equal good sales. The group has collected data for 2008's exclusives on each platform and, well, there have been some under-performers. On the Xbox 360 side, Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts was a disappointment, selling only 140,000 units. The other exclusive on Microsoft's console, Fable 2 (Joystiq's GOTY), was more of your traditional success story with a respectable 1.2 million copies sold.

And what about the industry-leading PS3? We already know MGS4 sold extremely well, but the same cannot be said (yet) for LittleBigPlanet and Resistance 2, both of which seemed to perform lower than expectations; LBP sold 611,000 copies in North America while R2 unloaded 600,000 units.

As for Nintendo, well ... it won. It always does. Last we heard, Nintendo stopped making games and was in the process of building a Kirby-shaped Death Star to orbit the planet.

JoystiqNPD: Console exclusives performed with mixed results in '08 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Jan 2009 15:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Actionbanjo-kazooie-nuts-and-boltsfable-2LionheadLionhead-Studioslittlebigplanetmetal-gear-solid-4Metal-Gear-Solid-4-Guns-of-the-PatriotsMGSmgs4microsoftMicrosoft-Game-StudiosnintendonpdPS3resistance-2RPGsonyWiiXbox-360Wed, 28 Jan 2009 15:56:00 EST<![CDATA[High calorie Banjo-Kazooie and Viva Pinata cakes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/03/high-calorie-banjo-kazooie-and-viva-pinata-cakes/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/03/high-calorie-banjo-kazooie-and-viva-pinata-cakes/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/03/high-calorie-banjo-kazooie-and-viva-pinata-cakes/#commentsFiled under: ,


Looking for a festive and fun video game themed cakes to consume or just admire? Look no further than Washington based Cake Fixation, the creators of both the Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise and Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts themed cakes you see above. Note the attention to detail, expert use of royal icing and all those yellow cutout jiggies. And that Horstachio, it's pure edible genius!

[Thanks, James C.]

JoystiqHigh calorie Banjo-Kazooie and Viva Pinata cakes originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 03 Jan 2009 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-boltsnuts-and-boltsraretrouble-in-paradiseviva-pinataviva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseSat, 03 Jan 2009 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts gets text-enlarging patch]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/21/banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-bolts-gets-text-enlarging-patch/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/21/banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-bolts-gets-text-enlarging-patch/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/21/banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-bolts-gets-text-enlarging-patch/#commentsFiled under: ,


A recent patch

lets you make the

text bigger in

Banjo-Kazooie:

Nuts & Bolts.

JoystiqBanjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts gets text-enlarging patch originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 21 Dec 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banjo-kazooieBanjo-Kazooie-3banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-boltsMicrosoftMicrosoft-Game-Studiosraresmall-texttextXbox-360Sun, 21 Dec 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rare releases text enlarging Nuts & Bolts update]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/20/rare-releases-text-enlarging-nuts-and-bolts-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/20/rare-releases-text-enlarging-nuts-and-bolts-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/20/rare-releases-text-enlarging-nuts-and-bolts-update/#commentsFiled under: ,


Without much of an announcement, Rare just released a Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts title update that fixes the game's smallest biggest problem, the small text. Yes sir, the Nuts & Bolts small dialog text issue has been resolved! After the title update is installed, a new "Large Dialogue Text Option" is available under the game display options on the main screen. Once this box is checked, the game's dialog text is embiggened. Or, if you're a purist, you can keep the small text by keeping the option unchecked. You can see the difference in text sizes in our nifty screen comparison gallery below. Thanks Rare!

JoystiqRare releases text enlarging Nuts & Bolts update originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 20 Dec 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banjo-kazooieBanjo-Kazooie-3banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-boltsMicrosoft-Game-Studiosnuts-and-boltsrareSat, 20 Dec 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Contraption contest, earn eternal Nuts & Bolts fame]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/18/contraption-contest-earn-eternal-nuts-and-bolts-fame/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/18/contraption-contest-earn-eternal-nuts-and-bolts-fame/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/18/contraption-contest-earn-eternal-nuts-and-bolts-fame/#commentsFiled under: ,


Rare just sent word that they're holding a Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts contest where they're looking for the coolest, most innovative and funkiest vehicular contraption. And they'll be rewarding those contraption creators who can impress.

The Nuts & Bolts Contraption Contest is relatively simple. From now through January 4th, create the most impressive Nuts & Bolts vehicle possible. Then, once complete, upload a picture of the vehicle to the Showroom. When all entries are in, Rare will look through all submissions and pick the top seven. These seven l33t contraptors will be awarded a mystery prize that'll be something along the lines of "in-game immortalization" that "could earn you a genuine place in Banjo history." Sounds bragalicious.

JoystiqContraption contest, earn eternal Nuts & Bolts fame originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 18 Dec 2008 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banjo-kazooiebanjo-kazooie-nuts-and-boltsnuts-and-boltsrareThu, 18 Dec 2008 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Deal time: Snag Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts for $26]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/11/deal-time-snag-banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-bolts-for-26/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/11/deal-time-snag-banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-bolts-for-26/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/11/deal-time-snag-banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-bolts-for-26/#commentsFiled under: ,


Considering Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts debuted at $39.99, it was already quite a bargain as far as Xbox 360 games go. Gamers are frugal people, though. They have to be, as gaming is an expensive hobby, after all. With this in mind, we present you with one heckuva deal on Banjo's latest adventure. Amazon currently has the game on sale for a paltry $25.99. Even better, it qualifies for free shipping. If you've been waiting to get your hands on the generally well received build-em-up / platformer, now's your chance.

[Via Evil Avatar]

JoystiqDeal time: Snag Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts for $26 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Dec 2008 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banjo-kazooiebanjo-kazooie-3banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-boltsmgsmicrosoft-game-studiosnuts-and-boltsrareThu, 11 Dec 2008 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Banjo visit the Eiffel Tower]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/04/video-banjo-visit-the-eiffel-tower/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/04/video-banjo-visit-the-eiffel-tower/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/04/video-banjo-visit-the-eiffel-tower/#commentsFiled under: ,

After the break, we bring you your random video of the day. The setup: Banjo the bear (from Banjo-Kazooie, of course) has back rent piling up, so he decides to go visit Jinjo in Paris, France. While in Paris, Banjo decides to take in the sights, visit the Eiffel Towel and wander about. Then, suddenly, he spots a Jiggy and must find a way grab the golden puzzle piece while breaking free of traditional platformer restraints. Did we mention the video is live action and features a dude in a bear costume?

Continue reading Video: Banjo visit the Eiffel Tower

JoystiqVideo: Banjo visit the Eiffel Tower originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Dec 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banjo-kazooiebanjo-kazooie-nuts-and-boltsnuts-and-boltsrareThu, 04 Dec 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[General Banjo-Kazooie XBLA release delayed until Dec. 3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/20/general-banjo-kazooie-xbla-release-delayed-until-dec-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/20/general-banjo-kazooie-xbla-release-delayed-until-dec-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/20/general-banjo-kazooie-xbla-release-delayed-until-dec-3/#commentsFiled under: ,

Microsoft has come bearing (GEDDIT? BECAUSE BANJO IS A BEAR) bad news, notifying 1UP that the general Xbox Live Arcade release of Rare's classic N64 platformer, Banjo-Kazooie, has been delayed until Dec 3rd. It would appear the high-res re-release has been pushed back in order to extend the period of exclusivity, granted to those who preordered vehicular adventure Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts and failed to receive their bonus XBLA download codes.

Microsoft is currently "investigating" the holdup, urging customers who did not receive a redeem code to contact their retailers' customer service departments. That's always a grizzly task. GEDDIT? BECAUSE GRIZZLY IS A TYPE OF BEAR AND BANJO IS A BEAR.

Gallery: Banjo-Kazooie (XBLA)

JoystiqGeneral Banjo-Kazooie XBLA release delayed until Dec. 3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Nov 2008 09:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Banjo-is-a-bearBanjo-KazooieBanjo-Kazooie-nuts-and-boltsPlatformingRareXBLAXbox-360Xbox-Live-ArcadeThu, 20 Nov 2008 09:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Rare drops Battletoads, Killer Instinct gags in Banjo-Kazooie]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/17/rare-drops-battletoads-killer-instinct-gags-in-banjo-kazooie/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/17/rare-drops-battletoads-killer-instinct-gags-in-banjo-kazooie/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/17/rare-drops-battletoads-killer-instinct-gags-in-banjo-kazooie/#commentsFiled under:

You're going to be seeing this picture circulated a lot in the coming days, so we just wanted to get out in front of it for you. Yes, the above image, which hints at new Battletoads and Jet Force Gemini games, can be found in Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts and Bolts. But no, you should absolutely not take that to mean that any of those games are actually coming. It says as much in the image itself, but that won't stop the internet from crushing itself under the weight of its own excitement.

As recently as today, Rare talked about how its next project is going to surprise people. We're not sure that points to a lot of its franchises being revived.

... We can still hope though, right?

[Thanks, Justin; via GameTrailers]

JoystiqRare drops Battletoads, Killer Instinct gags in Banjo-Kazooie originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Nov 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banjo-kazooieBanjo-Kazooie-3banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-boltsMicrosoftMicrosoft-Game-StudiosrareXbox-360Mon, 17 Nov 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rare set to accept Nuts & Bolts challenges]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/12/rare-set-to-accept-nuts-and-bolts-challenges/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/12/rare-set-to-accept-nuts-and-bolts-challenges/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/12/rare-set-to-accept-nuts-and-bolts-challenges/#commentsFiled under: ,

With Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts making its way to retail, team Rare is stepping up to the multiplayer plate and will be swinging at anyone who dares take them on.

On Sunday, November 23rd from 3-5:00PM eastern, members of the Rare dev team will be on Xbox Live sporting a stylish pair of sunglasses and will be taking on any and all Nuts & Bolts challengers. As a bonus, you'll have the chance to earn the "What's That Smell?" achievement for playing against any Rare member or (for the less cool) playing with someone who already has. Good luck and show Rare that X3F fanboys take no mercy.

JoystiqRare set to accept Nuts & Bolts challenges originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Nov 2008 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banjo-kazooiebanjo-kazooie-nuts-and-boltsrareWed, 12 Nov 2008 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Rare to fix Banjo-Kazooie's text issues after all]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/10/rare-to-fix-banjo-kazooies-text-issues-after-all/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/10/rare-to-fix-banjo-kazooies-text-issues-after-all/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/10/rare-to-fix-banjo-kazooies-text-issues-after-all/#commentsFiled under: ,


Hastily abandoning an ill-advised plan to include a magnifying glass with every purchase of the game, Rare has resolved to solve reported text issues in its build-a-bear's-car adventure, Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts. After stating that the in-game text, allegedly illegible on standard-definition television sets, would be "too expensive in terms of time, resources and money to alter," the company has committed to releasing a correctional title update within the next 30 days.

This is "good news for everyone," according to a post on the developer's website. "Including us, as we would actually like people to enjoy our game and not revile us with a fiery passion." There you have it, internet. You may now return to being angry about other things, like Banjo's square nose.

JoystiqRare to fix Banjo-Kazooie's text issues after all originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Nov 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Banjo-KazooieBanjo-Kazooie-Nuts-and-BoltsMicrosoft-Games-StudiosPatchRareSDTVTextXbox-360Mon, 10 Nov 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rare has a change of heart, will fix Nuts & Bolts' small text problem]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/10/rare-has-a-change-of-heart-will-fix-nuts-and-bolts-small-text-pr/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/10/rare-has-a-change-of-heart-will-fix-nuts-and-bolts-small-text-pr/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/10/rare-has-a-change-of-heart-will-fix-nuts-and-bolts-small-text-pr/#commentsFiled under: ,


After hearing the collective internet vent in anger regarding the tiny on-screen text in Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts not being embiggened, developer Rare has had a change of heart.

Rare just announced that they will be fixing the Nuts & Bolts tiny text issue with a title update post launch. The update should be "released within the next 30 days" and "will fix it [the small text] for those with Standard Definition TVs". We say nice move Rare ... nice PR move. Now that we've won this tiny text battle, who's up for focusing our text embiggening efforts on Capcom and Dead Rising? Show of hands, please.

JoystiqRare has a change of heart, will fix Nuts & Bolts' small text problem originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Nov 2008 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banjo-kazooiebanjo-kazooie-nuts-and-boltsnuts-and-boltsrareMon, 10 Nov 2008 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview -- Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts (360)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/06/metareview-banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-bolts-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/06/metareview-banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-bolts-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/06/metareview-banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-bolts-360/#commentsFiled under: ,

We were admittedly cynical about Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts before we actually got our hands on it at E3, when we fell and fell hard. It seems like most reviewers are having the same response, even though some are pining for the simpler days of Banjo.
  • 1UP (A-): "To all the Rare-haters out there: Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts (the latest in a series that's scarcely been heard from since the Nintendo 64 days, barring a pair of Game Boy Advance spin-offs) puts the ailing developer on the road back to relevancy. Nuts & Bolts' single-player structure, addictive multiplayer, and intricate vehicle-crafting system handily show that this isn't just another generic cute-n-furry platformer."
  • IGN (83/100): "A game that never stopped being fun for me. It's an odd duck that doesn't fit into any conventional game genres and probably isn't right for everybody. Despite its friendly appearance, Nuts & Bolts isn't exactly easy to pick up and play and might be over the head of some small children. There's a lot of depth here and the vehicle creation tools allow you to flex your mind and your fingers at the same time. "
  • Eurogamer (70/100): "Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts is not a platform game. The game it has become instead demands thoughtful, exciting challenges that inspire the player to pitch in and help get the most out of each level, but it fails to provide them, and even though it's worth persevering with for the occasional hurdles race, egg-and-spoon and a game-world in aptly Rare form, ultimately it's a brilliant shell with a mostly hollow centre. "

JoystiqMetareview -- Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts (360) originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Nov 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banjo-kazooieBanjo-Kazooie-3banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-boltsmetareviewMicrosoftMicrosoft-Game-StudiosRareXbox-360Thu, 06 Nov 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rare will fix SDTV Banjo-Kazooie text issue [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/05/rare-wont-fix-sdtv-banjo-kazooie-text-issue/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/05/rare-wont-fix-sdtv-banjo-kazooie-text-issue/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/05/rare-wont-fix-sdtv-banjo-kazooie-text-issue/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Update: Rare is now planning to release a patch within the next 30 days.

Original story:

Rare has confirmed that Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts' unclear text on standard definition televisions will not be fixed. The issue came to light following the release of the demo last week and now Rare states that the issue is "too expensive in terms of time, resources and money to alter."

SDTV haters aside, let's accept the fact that this is a serious oversight on par with Dead Rising's tiny text. Adding insult to injury, CVG points out that Xbox Live Arcade games must be playable, which includes text being readable, on a 14" SDTV. Too bad Microsoft doesn't seem to hold its first-party retail games to that strict standard.

Source - Rare community manager statement [NeoGaf]
Source - No fix for Banjo SD TV issue [CVG]

JoystiqRare will fix SDTV Banjo-Kazooie text issue [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Nov 2008 14:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banjo-kazooiebanjo-kazooie-nuts-and-boltsnuts-and-boltsrareXbox-360Wed, 05 Nov 2008 14:20:00 EST<![CDATA[No fix planned for small Nuts & Bolts text ]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/05/no-fix-planned-for-small-nuts-and-bolts-text/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/05/no-fix-planned-for-small-nuts-and-bolts-text/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/05/no-fix-planned-for-small-nuts-and-bolts-text/#commentsFiled under: ,


If you've tried the Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts demo (now available on the XBLM) and played it on a SD television you may have noticed that the text is Dead Rising itty-bitty small. Heck, HD television owners claim the text is rather difficult to read. And if you think team Rare can / will fix the small text issue in the retail build of Nuts & Bolts, then you're sadly mistaken because no text embiggening will be done.

Rare community manager George Kelion informed CVG that "this is an issue that doesn't look like it will get changed," confirming that "the text you see in the demo will be the same as that which you find in the retail version of the game." Our advice, get an HD television, a new pair of reading glasses or sit seven inches away from the screen. No more, no less.

[Via Evil Avatar]

JoystiqNo fix planned for small Nuts & Bolts text originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Nov 2008 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banjo-kazooiebanjo-kazooie-nuts-and-boltsnuts-and-boltsrareWed, 05 Nov 2008 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Banjo Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts demo on the XBLM]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/29/banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-bolts-demo-on-the-xblm/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/29/banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-bolts-demo-on-the-xblm/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/29/banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-bolts-demo-on-the-xblm/#commentsFiled under: , ,


We woke up this morning and thought, "Wouldn't it be nice if we could build some kind of flying car?" As though they read our minds, Microsoft has released a demo for Banjo Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts on the Xbox Live Marketplace. Clocking in at a hefty 1.07GB the demo allows gamers to play with the unique vehicle creation system that is the basis for many of the challenges in the upcoming platformer. Looking to flex your creative muscle? Hit the Marketplace and download the demo now. Banjo Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts ships on November 11, exclusively on the Xbox 360.

JoystiqBanjo Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts demo on the XBLM originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Oct 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2008-releasesbanjo-kazooie-3banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-boltsmicrosoft-game-studiosrareWed, 29 Oct 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts and Bolts demo on Xbox Live]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/29/banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-bolts-demo-on-xbox-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/29/banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-bolts-demo-on-xbox-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/29/banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-bolts-demo-on-xbox-live/#commentsFiled under: ,


There's now a demo for Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts and Bolts on Xbox Live and you may just want to prepare yourself. Even if you've never had any patience for a game about a bear wearing a bird-stuffed backpack (which is still not a good idea for a game, bee-tee-dub) you might just find yourself, as we did, happily slapping together vehicles with a stupid grin on your face.

Go ahead, ignore our warnings and download the 1 gigglebyte slice of joy. Just don't come crying to us when everyone you know starts judging you. Harshly.

[Thanks, Travis!]

JoystiqBanjo-Kazooie: Nuts and Bolts demo on Xbox Live originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Oct 2008 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banjo-kazooiebanjo-kazooie-nuts-and-boltsdemosrareXbox-360xbox-liveWed, 29 Oct 2008 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Nuts & Bolts slated for Nov. 14th Euro release]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/22/nuts-and-bolts-slated-for-nov-14th-euro-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/22/nuts-and-bolts-slated-for-nov-14th-euro-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/22/nuts-and-bolts-slated-for-nov-14th-euro-release/#commentsFiled under: ,


In news that we thought was already confirmed, Microsoft and Rare just "officially" announced that Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts will be hitting European retail shelves on Friday, November 14th. So, if you were like us and were under the impression that November 14th was Nuts & Bolts' European release, then take this as a confirmation of your gaming wisdom. Also, don't forget you still have time to get your pre-order on and take advantage of the free Banjo-Kazooie XBLA offer.

JoystiqNuts & Bolts slated for Nov. 14th Euro release originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banjo-kazooiebanjo-kazooie-nuts-and-boltsnuts-and-boltsrareWed, 22 Oct 2008 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Banjo-Kazooie 360 vs. Banjo N64]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/09/video-banjo-kazooie-360-vs-banjo-n64/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/09/video-banjo-kazooie-360-vs-banjo-n64/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/09/video-banjo-kazooie-360-vs-banjo-n64/#commentsFiled under: ,


The Gametrailers folks posted a comparison video that pits upcoming Banjo-Kazooie on the Xbox 360 versus old-school Banjo-Kazooie on the N64. After our expert analysis (watching the video) we can attest that the 360 version is nearly identical to the N64 version in terms of content, but has the added benefit of crisper models and a deeper color palette. The other bonus is the replacement of all Nintendo references with Microsoft Game Studios logos. Huzzah!

[Via Game Stooge]

JoystiqVideo: Banjo-Kazooie 360 vs. Banjo N64 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Oct 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banjo-kazooieBanjo-Kazooie-3Banjo-Kazooie-Nuts-and-BoltsMicrosoft-Game-StudiosrarexblaThu, 09 Oct 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[TGS 08: Banjo Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts sharing detailed: blueprints, replays (and bears!)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/08/tgs-08-banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-bolts-sharing-detailed-blueprints/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/08/tgs-08-banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-bolts-sharing-detailed-blueprints/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/08/tgs-08-banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-bolts-sharing-detailed-blueprints/#commentsFiled under:


Many of us at Joystiq are still torn on Rare's upcoming Banjo Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts, the build-a-bear's-car platformer heavy on vehicle creation. This morning's demo of the game at Xbox Tokyo, steered by Rare's Neill Harrison, once again reinforced our positive appraisal of the game's creative possibilities while leaving this writer as-yet-unconvinced of the game around the toy.

Preaching a message of replayability and open-endedness, Harrison detailed some of the game's "sharing" functionality: Blueprints and replays. Particularly cool vehicles can be shared amongst friends by "gifting" blueprints to them. Spent twelve hours making the absolute perfect jet/boat/car with detachable helicopter and torpedo attachments? Want to share it with Grandma? Gift it to her and go head-to-head in a multiplayer grudge match. Or challenge her to beat your best time in one of the game's Challenge Modes.

Gallery: Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts

Continue reading TGS 08: Banjo Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts sharing detailed: blueprints, replays (and bears!)

JoystiqTGS 08: Banjo Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts sharing detailed: blueprints, replays (and bears!) originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Oct 2008 08:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Banjo-KazooieBanjo-Kazooie-Nuts-and-BoltsRareTGS-2008Xbox-360Wed, 08 Oct 2008 08:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Banjo-Kazooie site adds forums, diaries and more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/04/banjo-kazooie-site-adds-forums-diaries-and-more/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/04/banjo-kazooie-site-adds-forums-diaries-and-more/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/04/banjo-kazooie-site-adds-forums-diaries-and-more/#commentsFiled under: ,

In preparation for its release next month, the official Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts website has received a Banjo-sized overhaul, adding new community features and functionality. And we hear Kazooie did all the updating tasks while Banjo received the credit. Selfish bear.

The official Banjo-Kazooie site now has its own dedicated forums, nifty new developer blog, a content-rich fan site kit, and news / press sections. And as if that wasn't enough, when the game releases there will be active leaderboard and showroom areas. We're sure you can find other delicious Banjo-Kazooie bits on the site, so start your search at the homepage and begin the website surfing process.

JoystiqBanjo-Kazooie site adds forums, diaries and more originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 04 Oct 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banjo-kazooiebanjo-kazooie-nuts-and-boltsnuts-and-boltsrareSat, 04 Oct 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Get Jiggy with new Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts video and screens]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/03/get-jiggy-with-new-banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-bolts-video-and-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/03/get-jiggy-with-new-banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-bolts-video-and-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/03/get-jiggy-with-new-banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-bolts-video-and-screens/#commentsFiled under: ,

We got to spend a little more time behind the controls of Rare's re-invention of its Mario-esque N64 platforming series and ... it was pretty much a more polished version of what we tried out at E3. The vehicle creation element of the game is still its most endearing aspect by far, and we continue to be struck by the non-platform-game-ness of it all. (What with Kazooie being relegated to wielding a wrench and the fact that most of the game is based around purpose-built vehicles.)

It's no longer a hardcore platformer; the game instead feels skewed toward a younger (or at least wider) audience -- although we're pretty confident that series diehards will still find it enjoyable (especially the vehicle creation). We'll have multiplayer impressions next week; until then, check out these latest screens and video of wild bear-bird (or is it bird-bear?) action.

Gallery: Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts (10-03-2008)



JoystiqGet Jiggy with new Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts video and screens originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Oct 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-boltsmicrosoftrarevideoXbox-360Fri, 03 Oct 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Cruising around the lands of Nuts & Bolts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/30/video-cruising-around-the-lands-of-nuts-and-bolts/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/30/video-cruising-around-the-lands-of-nuts-and-bolts/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/30/video-cruising-around-the-lands-of-nuts-and-bolts/#commentsFiled under: ,

Team Rare posted a new Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts trailer and it's all about the various locations you'll be visiting in the Nuts & Bolts world come November. The trailer (embedded above) is a quirky fun look at the Banjo world, showing off landmarks including the Jiggy collector, Klungos Arcade and some watery looking water effects. Take it all in, kids and enjoy!

JoystiqVideo: Cruising around the lands of Nuts & Bolts originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 30 Sep 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banjo-kazooiebanjo-kazooie-nuts-and-boltsnuts-and-boltsrareTue, 30 Sep 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rare confirms Nuts & Bolts pre-order locations for XBLA Banjo bonus]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/27/rare-confirms-nuts-and-bolts-pre-order-locations-for-xbla-banjo-bo/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/27/rare-confirms-nuts-and-bolts-pre-order-locations-for-xbla-banjo-bo/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/27/rare-confirms-nuts-and-bolts-pre-order-locations-for-xbla-banjo-bo/#commentsFiled under: ,


Rare just released a list of retailers who would be offering the recently announced pre-order bonus for Banjo Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts. Those who reserve the title at the participating locations (the complete list of which is located below) will receive a code which will allow them to download the XBLA re-release of the original Banjo Kazooie free of charge -- and two weeks earlier than its official launch date. We're usually pretty stringent with our Lincolns, but we're not sure we'll be able to resist that bird-filled-backpack-wearing-bear's siren call.
  • UK: Amazon, Play.com, Game and Gamestation
  • USA: Amazon, EBGames, GameStop and GameCrazy
  • FRANCE: Micromania and Game
  • SPAIN: Game
  • ITALY: GameStop
  • SCANDINAVIA: Game and GameStop
  • CANADA, JAPAN, IRELAND, GERMANY, AUSTRIA, BENELUX, SWITZERLAND, AUSTRALIA and NEW ZEALAND are participating, but participating retailers have yet to be confirmed.

JoystiqRare confirms Nuts & Bolts pre-order locations for XBLA Banjo bonus originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 27 Sep 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banjo-kazooiebanjo-kazooie-nuts-and-boltsnuts-and-boltspre-orderrareXbox-360Sat, 27 Sep 2008 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Banjo-Kazooie looking sharp on XBLA]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/25/banjo-kazooie-looking-sharp-on-xbla/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/25/banjo-kazooie-looking-sharp-on-xbla/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/25/banjo-kazooie-looking-sharp-on-xbla/#commentsFiled under: ,

Not to berate or belittle the big, bouncing buffoon's bygone birth, but the backpack-packing bear (from Rare) clearly benefits from blatantly bettered visuals in his XBLA bash. Whether you're a boy bedridden or babe bored in your boudoir, you'd best be aware that this bear with a bird in his backpack is worth both a care and a stare.

(Also, alliterations are annoying.)

Gallery: Banjo-Kazooie (XBLA)

JoystiqBanjo-Kazooie looking sharp on XBLA originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Sep 2008 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Banjo-KazooieBanjo-Kazooie-3Banjo-Kazooie-Nuts-and-BoltsRareXBLAXbox-360Thu, 25 Sep 2008 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Nuts & Bolts retailer pre-order info for free Banjo]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/25/nuts-and-bolts-retailer-pre-order-info-for-free-banjo/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/25/nuts-and-bolts-retailer-pre-order-info-for-free-banjo/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/25/nuts-and-bolts-retailer-pre-order-info-for-free-banjo/#commentsFiled under: ,

The Rare crew just sent us information regarding the Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts pre-order program where you can score a free copy of the XBLA title Banjo-Kazooie. We guess there was some confusion among eager pre-orderers who weren't exactly sure which retailers were offering Banjo-Kazooie redemption codes with Nuts & Bolts pre-orders. Well, Rare came to the rescue and created a handy list of participating retailers for every country. That list is below. Happy pre-ordering.
  • UK: Amazon, Play.com, Game and Gamestation
  • USA: Amazon, EBGames, GameStop and GameCrazy
  • FRANCE: Micromania and Game
  • SPAIN: Game
  • ITALY: GameStop
  • SCANDINAVIA: Game and GameStop
  • CANADA, JAPAN, IRELAND, GERMANY, AUSTRIA, BENELUX, SWITZERLAND, AUSTRALIA and NEW ZEALAND are participating, but participating retailers have yet to be confirmed.

JoystiqNuts & Bolts retailer pre-order info for free Banjo originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Sep 2008 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banjo-kazooiebanjo-kazooie-nuts-and-boltsnuts-and-boltsrarexblaThu, 25 Sep 2008 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Banjo-Kazooie headed to the XBLA Nov 26th, Banjo-Tooie in 2009]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/24/banjo-kazooie-headed-to-the-xbla-nov-26th-banjo-tooie-in-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/24/banjo-kazooie-headed-to-the-xbla-nov-26th-banjo-tooie-in-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/24/banjo-kazooie-headed-to-the-xbla-nov-26th-banjo-tooie-in-2009/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Earlier this morning, Microsoft officially confirmed that the N64 remade Banjo-Kazooie will release to the Xbox Live Arcade on Wednesday, November 26th for 1200 Microsoft points. But remember, those who pre-order Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts can download the XBLA version earlier and for free. If you're willing to plop down Nuts & Bolts pre-order cash, you'll receive a redemption code to download Banjo-Kazooie XBLA two weeks prior to its official XBLA release, which would be on or around November 12th.

Also, tucked in towards the end of today's Banjo press release, is news that Banjo-Tooie will be releasing to the Arcade sometime in early 2009. Huzzah!

JoystiqBanjo-Kazooie headed to the XBLA Nov 26th, Banjo-Tooie in 2009 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Sep 2008 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banjo-kazooiebanjo-kazooie-nuts-and-boltsnuts-and-boltsrarexblaWed, 24 Sep 2008 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[New Banjo interview talks balance, challenges]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/17/new-banjo-interview-talks-balance-challenges/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/17/new-banjo-interview-talks-balance-challenges/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/17/new-banjo-interview-talks-balance-challenges/#commentsFiled under: ,

Gamerscore Blog has posted a brand new video interview with Rare's Salvatore Fileccia on Banjo Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts. Well, when we say brand new, we mean recorded back in May during Microsoft's Spring Showcase. Even so, we can confidently say that this is the best Banjo interview yet recorded. Why? Because Gamerscore Blog's own Chris Paladino asks our question. Our question: how do you balance the game to keep it fresh and entertaining for both hardcore and casual players (Banjo is kid friendly, after all)? Find the answer to our brilliant question the video above.

JoystiqNew Banjo interview talks balance, challenges originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Sep 2008 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banjo-kazooiebanjo-kazooie-3banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-boltsmgsmicrosoft-game-studiosrareWed, 17 Sep 2008 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts achievements]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/12/rumor-banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-bolts-achievements/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/12/rumor-banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-bolts-achievements/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/12/rumor-banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-bolts-achievements/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Fresh from a visit to Rare HQ for some hands-on with Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts, the Xbox 360 Online Center folks came back with a supposed list of Nuts & Bolts achievements. Though, they came back without any of the pretty achievement artwork. Boo! You can view the "rumored" list of achievements after the jump and even though there aren't any achievements quite as good as Gears 2's "Beat the Meatflag", Nuts & Bolts' "BBQ Beef" achievement is pretty yummy. Or maybe we're just hungry.

JoystiqRumor: Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts achievements originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Sep 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementsbanjo-kazooiebanjo-kazooie-3banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-boltsnuts-and-boltsrarerumorFri, 12 Sep 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Nuts & Bolts is $39.99, pre-orders get XBLA Banjo early]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/19/nuts-and-bolts-is-39-99-pre-orders-get-xbla-banjo-early/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/19/nuts-and-bolts-is-39-99-pre-orders-get-xbla-banjo-early/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/19/nuts-and-bolts-is-39-99-pre-orders-get-xbla-banjo-early/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Microsoft announced today that gamers can now pre-order Banjo Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts. Much more exciting is the fact that the rumored price of $39.99 is true, making Nuts & Bolts a real bargain. Making the deal even sweeter, gamers that pre-order the game will receive a download code for the Xbox Live Arcade version of the original Banjo Kazooie. Even better than that, the code will work starting on November 14, the day of the Nuts & Bolts launch, a full two weeks before the XBLA game hits Xbox Live Marketplace. The XBLA release will include a feature called "Stop N' Swop" which allows players to unlock new features in XBLA game by playing Nuts & Bolts.

Finally, a new Nuts & Bolts world called Jiggoseum was revealed. You can check out the first images of Jiggoseum in the gallery below.

[Via Joystiq]

Gallery: Banjo-Kazooie: Jiggoseum

JoystiqNuts & Bolts is $39.99, pre-orders get XBLA Banjo early originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Aug 2008 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banjobanjo-kazooiebanjo-kazooie-3banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-boltsmgsmicrosoft-game-studiosrareTue, 19 Aug 2008 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Rare promises Banjo-Kazooie demo before its November release]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/19/rare-promises-banjo-kazooie-demo-before-its-november-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/19/rare-promises-banjo-kazooie-demo-before-its-november-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/19/rare-promises-banjo-kazooie-demo-before-its-november-release/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Talking with Eurogamer, Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts lead designer Salvatore Fileccia confirmed their plans to release a Banjo demo to the Xbox Live Marketplace prior to the game's release. "We've got various different ideas" Fileccia explained, saying that the demo will most likely include the four challenges as seen in the E3 demo as well as an editor "because that's a whole different part of the game - building things and seeing how they perform, and taking part in challenges."

So, there you have it. You can expect colorful Banjo-Kazooie demo goodness prior to the game's release this November. Huzzah!

JoystiqRare promises Banjo-Kazooie demo before its November release originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Aug 2008 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banjo-kazooiebanjo-kazooie-3banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-boltsnuts-and-boltsrarexblmTue, 19 Aug 2008 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts pre-order packs free code, early access to Banjo-Kazooie XBLA]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/19/banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-bolts-pre-order-packs-free-code-early-acc/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/19/banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-bolts-pre-order-packs-free-code-early-acc/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/19/banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-bolts-pre-order-packs-free-code-early-acc/#commentsFiled under:

banjo-kazooie
We pretty much crammed the need-to-know right up there in the headline, but here it is again: Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts pre-orders (confirmed: the game's only $40) will include free download codes for the original Banjo-Kazooie on Xbox Live Arcade at "participating" retailers (read: not the little game store up the block). The code apparently will be redeemable on Nuts & Bolts' launch day, giving players a "two-week head start" on the XBLA game, which won't be released to the masses until a couple weeks later.

But why would you put down the new thing for the old one? Good question. For the answer we'll point you to "Stop 'N' Swop," a slice of Banjo lore that has intrigued completists of the original N64 games for years, now fully realized for the first time. (Spoiler: Certain accomplishments in Nuts & Bolts unlock <gasp>new content in the decade-old XBLA re-release</gasp>.)

Speaking of bonuses, we've got a little something special for you today. Hit up the gallery below for the first screens of the newly revealed Nuts & Bolts game world: Jiggoseum. It's like the Olympics ... but with cah-razy vehicles!

Gallery: Banjo-Kazooie: Jiggoseum

JoystiqBanjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts pre-order packs free code, early access to Banjo-Kazooie XBLA originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Aug 2008 11:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banjo-kazooiebanjo-kazooie-nuts-and-boltsbreakingnewsnuts-and-boltspre-orderrarestop-n-swopxblaXbox-360Tue, 19 Aug 2008 11:05:00 EST