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[Amazon Deal of the Day: Beatles: Rock Band for under $30]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/26/amazon-deal-of-the-day-beatles-rock-band-for-under-30/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/26/amazon-deal-of-the-day-beatles-rock-band-for-under-30/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/26/amazon-deal-of-the-day-beatles-rock-band-for-under-30/#comments If you've yet to play one of those rhythm games that exclusively features the work of a single band, but you're dying to temper your expectations for Green Day: Rock Band, you should probably consider picking up the similarly-titled Harmonix opus that focuses on the career of the Beatles. In fact, you should do it right now -- Amazon's offering Beatles: Rock Band for $28.49 on all three major platforms as its Deal of the Day. As an added bonus, the retailer is also selling the Premium Edition bundle, which includes all those sexy instruments, for just $139 (down from MSRP $200).

We recognize that The Beatles are no Green Day, but you should be able to emulate playing the upcoming Billie Jo Armstrong simulator by muting your television while playing Beatles, and just crankin' up the Dookie.

JoystiqAmazon Deal of the Day: Beatles: Rock Band for under $30 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Feb 2010 11:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonbeatlesdeal-of-the-daydealsMicrosoftNintendosaleThe-Beatles-Rock-BandWiiXbox-360Fri, 26 Feb 2010 11:40:00 EST<![CDATA[The Beatles: Rock Band DLC 'All You Need is Love' coming to PS3, Wii]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/11/the-beatles-rock-band-dlc-all-you-need-is-love-coming-to-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/11/the-beatles-rock-band-dlc-all-you-need-is-love-coming-to-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/11/the-beatles-rock-band-dlc-all-you-need-is-love-coming-to-ps3/#comments The Beatles: Rock Band single "All You Need is Love" will bounce on trampolines over to Wii and PS3 on February 16 and March 4, respectively. The song was initially released exclusively on Xbox 360, with proceeds from purchases going to Doctors Without Borders. The track raised approximately $218,000 for the international relief agency before the promotion ended on January 31.

All you need to download the track and start singing along is $2, or 200 Wii Points.

Gallery: The Beatles: Rock Band: Abbey Road DLC

JoystiqThe Beatles: Rock Band DLC 'All You Need is Love' coming to PS3, Wii originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Feb 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-you-need-is-lovebeatlesdlcharmonixmtv-gamesNintendothe-beatlesThe-Beatles-Rock-BandWiiThu, 11 Feb 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Conan isn't the world's best Beatles: Rock Band bassist]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/10/conan-isnt-the-worlds-best-beatles-rock-band-bassist/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/10/conan-isnt-the-worlds-best-beatles-rock-band-bassist/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/10/conan-isnt-the-worlds-best-beatles-rock-band-bassist/#comments
On the eve of the launch of Harmonix's digital British invasion, Conan O'Brien had a very special guest on his show -- Dhani Harrison, a collaborator on The Beatles: Rock Band and son of the late, great George Harrison. He spoke with everyone's favorite ginger giant, then demoed the title with Conan, who struggled on the bass line for "Birthday." Sadly, it looked as though he was playing on Easy. Actually, it looked even easier than that. Does Beatles: Rock Band have a "Toddler" setting?

You can check out NBC's site for a video of the interview and "Birthday" sampling. As for the Cone, we suggest he stay off the gee-tars and stick with his Edith Bunker-inspired vocal work.

JoystiqConan isn't the world's best Beatles: Rock Band bassist originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Sep 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beatlesconan-o-brienharmonixMicrosoftmtv-gamesnbcNintendorhythmrock-bandthe-beatles-rock-bandWiiXbox-360Thu, 10 Sep 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Do You Want to Know a Secret? Seven more songs revealed from The Beatles: Rock Band]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/21/do-you-want-to-know-a-secret-seven-more-songs-revealed-from-the-bea/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/21/do-you-want-to-know-a-secret-seven-more-songs-revealed-from-the-bea/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/21/do-you-want-to-know-a-secret-seven-more-songs-revealed-from-the-bea/#comments
Twist and shout! On top of the recent late-night video debut of eight songs to be featured in The Beatles: Rock Band, Harmonix has just revealed seven more tracks that will appear on the game's set list. With a little help from my friends, you'll be able to play with Harmonix's latest revolution: the three part harmony. I've got a feeling that if you and your bird can sing, you'll be playing this game eight days a week. Here are all 15 of the new tracks:
  • "Twist And Shout"
  • "Do You Want To Know A Secret"
  • "Can't Buy me Love"
  • "I Wanna Be Your Man"
  • "Eight Days A Week"
  • "Paperback Writer"
  • "And Your Bird Can Sing"
  • "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band"
  • "With a Little Help from My Friends"
  • "Within You Without You / Tomorrow Never Knows"
  • "Yellow Submarine"
  • "Revolution"
  • "Birthday"
  • "Dig A Pony"
  • "I've Got A Feeling"
Check out last night's video -- as well as our impressions of the game from a recent sneak preview -- after the jump!

Gallery: The Beatles: Rock Band (07/20/09)

Continue reading Do You Want to Know a Secret? Seven more songs revealed from The Beatles: Rock Band

JoystiqDo You Want to Know a Secret? Seven more songs revealed from The Beatles: Rock Band originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Jul 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beatlesharmonixMicrosoftNintendorock-bandthe-beatlesthe-beatles-rock-bandWiiXbox-360Tue, 21 Jul 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Former Beatles, widows involved in The Beatles: Rock Band development]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/24/former-beatles-widows-involved-in-the-beatles-rock-band-develo/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/24/former-beatles-widows-involved-in-the-beatles-rock-band-develo/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/24/former-beatles-widows-involved-in-the-beatles-rock-band-develo/#comments
It looks like Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, Yoko Ono and Olivia Harrison have more to do with The Beatles: Rock Band than thrilling journalists at Microsoft's E3 media briefing. In an interview with Crispy Gamer, the game's lead designer, Chris Foster, intimated that the former Beatles, along with Ono and Harrison, have shared quite a bit of input with the team at Harmonix.

Foster calls the group "the shareholders," and states that they helped put together the song list, its venues and gave input as to whether the game's "dreamscapes" adequately supported the songs. "They looked over all the characters, the animations ... they really kept us honest on whether we were capturing the spirit of the band as they were performing, which was a huge challenge for us," says Foster, noting that it's necessary to capture the joy that The Beatles expressed when playing.

According to Foster, seeing the former Beatles and their widows at Microsoft's E3 briefing "is about as validating as everything." He adds, "They don't get together for almost anything ... it has to be something important, something they believe in."

JoystiqFormer Beatles, widows involved in The Beatles: Rock Band development originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Jun 2009 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beatleseaelectronic-artsharmonixMicrosoftNintendorock-bandthe-beatles-rock-bandWiiXbox-360Wed, 24 Jun 2009 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Beatles: Rock Band to get NO mustache DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/the-beatles-rock-band-to-get-no-mustache-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/the-beatles-rock-band-to-get-no-mustache-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/the-beatles-rock-band-to-get-no-mustache-dlc/#comments
Harmonix is extremely pleased that it nailed the different looks of the Beatles in The Beatles: Rock Band, straight down to the facial hair from different eras. Yes, that includes Big Beard Paul McCartney above. Harmonix community manager John Drake told us, "We're really proud of all the mustache content we have in our game. However, there will be no mustache DLC in the game. Confirmed. You heard it right here."

So, if you're hoping for some kooky Salvador Dali-esque facial hair creations to come to the game at a later date, we're sorry. However, the game freaking rocks. We wouldn't even care if they featured in-game ads for the Gillette Gamer Razor in it at this point.

JoystiqThe Beatles: Rock Band to get NO mustache DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Jun 2009 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Beatlese3-2009Rock-BandThe-BeatlesThe-Beatles-Rock-BandWed, 03 Jun 2009 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dhani Harrison: Beatles Rock Band will "blow people's minds"]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/28/dhani-harrison-beatles-rock-band-will-blow-peoples-minds/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/28/dhani-harrison-beatles-rock-band-will-blow-peoples-minds/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/28/dhani-harrison-beatles-rock-band-will-blow-peoples-minds/#comments
Speaking to musicradar.com, Dhani Harrison, son of the Beatles' George Harrison, took care not to mince his words when discussing The Beatles: Rock Band. Naturally, one would expect that someone so closely connected to the project would be pretty positive about it, but Harrison made himself quite clear, saying, "I'm not hyping in the least when I say The Beatles: Rock Band is going to blow people's minds." He then added that the game will "set a new standard for video games."

Strong words to be sure, but, considering Harmonix's pedigree, it just might be true. We'll find out when we take the game for a spin next week at E3.

JoystiqDhani Harrison: Beatles Rock Band will "blow people's minds" originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 May 2009 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beatleseaelectronic-artsharmonixMicrosoftNintendothe-beatles-rock-bandWiiXbox-360Thu, 28 May 2009 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[OFLC lists 'Rock Band Project 9' ... it's likely The Beatles: Rock Band]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/21/oflc-lists-rock-band-project-9-its-likely-the-beatles-ro/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/21/oflc-lists-rock-band-project-9-its-likely-the-beatles-ro/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/21/oflc-lists-rock-band-project-9-its-likely-the-beatles-ro/#comments
Australia's rating board, the OFLC, currently has a listing for "Rock Band Project 9," which it classified on April 29 of this year. We're not used to rating agencies using code terms, but it turns out that's likely what happened in this case. We got in touch with the Harmonix/MTV/EA combine and were informed by the hive mind, "We can confirm that The Beatles: Rock Band will be coming to Australia and New Zealand on September 9, 2009."

But, but ... that wasn't even our question!! So, we'll take this to mean -- without it being said -- that Project 9 is code for The Beatles: Rock Band. This wouldn't be the only oddly labeled Rock Band title on the OFLC site, as Rock Band Unplugged is simply titled Rock Band PSP.

Harmonix has been hiring like crazy -- and there are most certainly secret projects going on -- but "Project 9" will likely be all set to let us jam with Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band this autumn.

[Thanks, Andrew]

JoystiqOFLC lists 'Rock Band Project 9' ... it's likely The Beatles: Rock Band originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 21 May 2009 22:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beatlesharmonixmtv-gamesproject-9rock-bandrock-band-project-9the-beatles-rock-bandThu, 21 May 2009 22:45:00 EST<![CDATA[The Beatles: Rock Band guitars confirmed, pre-order club announced]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/05/the-beatles-rock-band-guitars-confirmed-pre-order-club-announc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/05/the-beatles-rock-band-guitars-confirmed-pre-order-club-announc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/05/the-beatles-rock-band-guitars-confirmed-pre-order-club-announc/#comments
MTV Games and Harmonix have announced The Beatles: Rock Band will have two standalone guitars made available alongside the forthcoming Liverpudlian music rhythm game. The Rickenbacker 325 and Gretsch Duo Jet, played by John Lennon and George Harrison allegedly throughout their respective careers, are set to go on sale when the game launches in September for $100 bucks a pop. For those of you playing along at home, that equates to $250 for the full "premium" bundle plus another $200 for both of these guitars, altogether adding up to a whopping $450 for you serious Beatles fans. We spoke with Mariana Agathoklis at MTV Games this morning who said, "These guitars are really for the hardcore fans."

Additionally, the "pre-order club" has officially opened for business at the game's official site, allowing those who've already pre-ordered the game to access "breaking news and access to exclusive game elements including art and behind-the-scenes footage." The bad economy has us in a bit of a fiduciary bind -- maybe you fine folks pre-ordering the game would be so kind as to shoot us a tip when the hot scoops hit?

Update: Mariana at MTV Games asked us to clarify that these guitars will be compatible with "all Rock Band instruments, as well as most Guitar Hero and other music game peripherals." We've also added an image of the guitars in question in a gallery below, direct from the pre-order site to your eye cavities.

Gallery: The Beatles: Rock Band guitars


JoystiqThe Beatles: Rock Band guitars confirmed, pre-order club announced originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 May 2009 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beatleseaElectronic-ArtsgretschharmonixMicrosoftmtv-gamesNintendorhythm-gamesrickenbackerrock-bandthe-beatlesthe-beatles-rock-bandWiiXbox-360Tue, 05 May 2009 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Rock Band Beatles footage spotted at Coachella [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/19/rumor-rock-band-beatles-footage-spotted-at-coachella/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/19/rumor-rock-band-beatles-footage-spotted-at-coachella/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/19/rumor-rock-band-beatles-footage-spotted-at-coachella/#comments
If we've said it once, we've said it a thousand times: Sneaking cameras into concerts is illegal, folks. And so it's with sheer bravado that we've posted the Paul McCartney performance from two days ago at Coachella in California, playing "Got to Get You Into My Life," above. You'll understand though -- we had to -- as you'll see on the Beatles-sized screen behind Mr. McCartney some awfully interesting Rock Band-esque characters backing him up.

Though we can't confirm anything, and there certainly aren't any streaming note charts in sight, we're going all the way out on a limb here and guessing the footage may be our first glimpse at The Beatles: Rock Band (again, sans gameplay). We've asked publisher MTV Games for confirmation and will update this post when we hear back.

Update: Thanks to commenter Comtar for pointing out official confirmation of The Beatles: Rock Band video during Mr. McCartney's set at Coachella, via McCartney's website: "It was a night of firsts and was the unexpected, unannounced world premiere of the images from the coming Beatle Rock Band game which played on vast screens throughout "Got To Get You Into My Life." Looks like it wasn't a rumor after all!

[Thanks, Adam!]

JoystiqRock Band Beatles footage spotted at Coachella [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 19 Apr 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beatleseaElectronic-ArtsharmonixMicrosoftmtv-gamesNintendopaul-mccartneyrock-bandrumorthe-beatles-rock-bandWiiXbox-360Sun, 19 Apr 2009 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Beatles Rock Band supports multiple mics, harmonies]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/15/rumor-the-beatles-rock-band-supports-multiple-mics-harmonies/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/15/rumor-the-beatles-rock-band-supports-multiple-mics-harmonies/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/15/rumor-the-beatles-rock-band-supports-multiple-mics-harmonies/#comments
From the pages of Game Informer, according to Destructoid, comes a rumor that the upcoming The Beatles: Rock Band will support multiple microphones so that players can harmonize on vocal tracks. Apart from making sense, given the wide use of harmonies in Beatles music, the rumor raises a question: Where are we going to keep all this stuff? The sheer amount of equipment needed to supply four virtual rockers with both an instrument and a microphone begins to rival that of a real band. Here's hoping the next Rock Band accessory is a full-size van.

JoystiqRumor: Beatles Rock Band supports multiple mics, harmonies originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Apr 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beatlesharmonixMicrosoftNintendorock-bandthe-beatles-rock-bandWiiXbox-360Wed, 15 Apr 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Beatles: Rock Band features unreleased material ]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/12/the-beatles-rock-band-features-unreleased-material/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/12/the-beatles-rock-band-features-unreleased-material/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/12/the-beatles-rock-band-features-unreleased-material/#comments The hits and classics won't be the only tunes found in The Beatles: Rock Band, says George Harrison's son Dhani. He told Billboard.com that Harmonix's new game will feature Beatles material "that has never been heard, never been released." Dhani is apparently one of the prime movers for getting this game out in the first place, revealing that work on the title started two years ago.

Dhani says The Beatles game will be "totally, historically accurate." Does that mean we're going to see a Yoko Ono scenario? Let us know, Dhani, before the game's September 9 release.

[Via Destructoid]

JoystiqThe Beatles: Rock Band features unreleased material originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Mar 2009 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beatlesdhani-harrisoneaElectronic-Artsharmonixmtv-gamesmusicrhythmthe-beatlesthe-beatles-rock-bandThu, 12 Mar 2009 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[MTV's Beatles game to feature 'early days' and 'psychedelic' periods]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/12/mtvs-beatles-game-to-feature-early-days-and-psychedelic-per/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/12/mtvs-beatles-game-to-feature-early-days-and-psychedelic-per/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/12/mtvs-beatles-game-to-feature-early-days-and-psychedelic-per/#commentsIn a brief interview with Entertainment Weekly, Sir Paul McCartney shed some light on the this year's upcoming Beatles music game. McCartney confirmed that the 45 Beatles tracks will come from "different periods of the band" and that gamers will be treated to "early days, Liverpool, then psychedelic, and on from there." Of course, we all know who the final boss is going to be.

Ever since Harmonix announced plans to release a standalone Beatles music game, we've been kept in the dark regarding the game's details. So, even though we're still mostly fumbling around within its dimly lit development, Mr. McCartney has come to the rescue with a shimmer of informative light. Even if it's just a BIC lighter.

[Via IGN]

JoystiqMTV's Beatles game to feature 'early days' and 'psychedelic' periods originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Feb 2009 12:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apple-corpsbeatlesharmonixmusicthe-beatlesThu, 12 Feb 2009 12:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Harmonix 2009: The Beatles yes, Rock Band 3 no]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/08/harmonix-2009-the-beatles-yes-rock-band-3-no/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/08/harmonix-2009-the-beatles-yes-rock-band-3-no/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/08/harmonix-2009-the-beatles-yes-rock-band-3-no/#commentsFiled under:

We're quite glad to hear that Harmonix has opted not to pursue more disc-based Rock Band content this year. The business model that Harmonix has built for the rhythm game genre is -- at the moment -- close to perfection, and we wouldn't want to see another entry into the series disrupt this hegemony.

Harmonix co-founder and CEO Alex Rigopolous revealed the news at this week's Consumer Electronics Show. "We've actually made a choice to break out of the annual release cycle for Rock Band this year," said Rigopolous. "[This is] partly because the annual cycle places limits on the choices you can make as a developer. We're trying to take a long term view."

Instead of having Rock Band 3 this year, the company is putting focus on its Beatles game, which supposedly will have all-new gameplay previously unseen from Harmonix. That title is still due for a late 2009 release.

[Via MTV Multiplayer]

JoystiqHarmonix 2009: The Beatles yes, Rock Band 3 no originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Jan 2009 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beatlesces-09harmonixrock-bandThu, 08 Jan 2009 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Harmonix talks the game that is not Rock Band: Beatles]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/04/harmonix-talks-the-game-that-is-not-rock-band-beatles/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/04/harmonix-talks-the-game-that-is-not-rock-band-beatles/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/04/harmonix-talks-the-game-that-is-not-rock-band-beatles/#commentsFiled under:


First of all, don't call it Rock Band: Beatles. Harmonix's John Drake and Dan Teasdale don't like it. No, in fact, this is a completely separate game. How do we know? We've read the latest interview where Teasdale and Drake talk about the upcoming game.

While they don't specifically say it will be on Wii, they do mention the game coming to multiple consoles and, let's face it, ignoring the Wii's base is foolish. They've been working on the game for 17 months before it was even confirmed as real, so they've had plenty of time to work on all versions of the game. But, considering the company's inability to take the console seriously in the past, should we even expect the game to release on the Wii? Or would we get another gimped port?

Sadly, a great deal of the interview talks about Rock Band 2, so we don't really have much more to go on concerning this upcoming Beatles-based music game. They did say that the game would be encompassing the entire Beatles catalog, so that's something!

JoystiqHarmonix talks the game that is not Rock Band: Beatles originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 Nov 2008 18:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apple-corpbeatleseaharmonixmtv-gamesrock-bandrock-band-2the-beatlesTue, 04 Nov 2008 18:18:00 EST<![CDATA[MTV won Beatles rights with 'flexibility,' songs won't be Rock Band-compatible]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/03/mtv-won-beatles-rights-with-flexibility-songs-wont-be-rock-b/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/03/mtv-won-beatles-rights-with-flexibility-songs-wont-be-rock-b/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/03/mtv-won-beatles-rights-with-flexibility-songs-wont-be-rock-b/#commentsFiled under:

With such a dearth of information surrounding MTV's Beatles music game, we're trying to keep track of all the little details that have unfurled since last Thursday's revelation. According to sources close to Reuters, MTV Networks won the rights because it showed "more flexibility" than Guitar Hero World Tour publisher Activision Blizzard, whose CEO Bobby Kotick has repeatedly asserted that music publishers should be paying his company for inclusion in game.

That flexibility, we suspect, has to do with Rock Band branding, or the lack thereof. Although we've known that the Beatles game would share headlines with MTV/Harmonix's successful music series, Reuters notes rather matter-of-factly that "none of the Fab Four's songs will be available for download on the existing Rock Band franchise." (The recently-released AC-DC Track Pack allows you to transfer songs to your hard drive to play in Rock Band.) Given there's still quite a bit of time until the game's planned "holiday 2009" release, we'll hold out hope that Apple Corps changes its tune.

JoystiqMTV won Beatles rights with 'flexibility,' songs won't be Rock Band-compatible originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 03 Nov 2008 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apple-corpsbeatlesbeatles-gameharmonixmtvMon, 03 Nov 2008 12:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Sorry, Rock Banders, no Beatles for you]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/03/sorry-rock-banders-no-beatles-for-you/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/03/sorry-rock-banders-no-beatles-for-you/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/03/sorry-rock-banders-no-beatles-for-you/#commentsFiled under:


When it was revealed via conference call that MTV had scored the rights to the Beatles for an upcoming game, many questions arose. What music would the game include? Would it be a Rock Band spin-off? Would it work with any of the Rock Band games? Well, sadly, we have an answer on that last one.

According to Reuters, there won't be any compatibility between the upcoming Beatles-specific game and the Rock Band games from Harmonix. There won't even be a chance to download the Beatles songs into a Rock Band game. Hopefully, down the line, we'll get hope that this will change. For the time being, however, just look forward to the Beatles-specific game and be sure to tell us what you're looking forward to playing.

JoystiqSorry, Rock Banders, no Beatles for you originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 03 Nov 2008 10:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beatleseaharmonixmtvmtv-gamesmusicrhythmrock-bandrock-band-2the-beatlesMon, 03 Nov 2008 10:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Beatles game will have 45 songs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/31/beatles-game-will-have-45-songs/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/31/beatles-game-will-have-45-songs/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/31/beatles-game-will-have-45-songs/#commentsFiled under:


We've got some small details for you regarding the Harmonix game starring the Beatles, the band who is too good to play with the rest of the class in Rock Band. Unveiled just yesterday, the yet-to-be named title will feature 45 songs from their EMI years of 1962 to 1969. Former Beatles producer George Martin and his son Giles will be overseeing the catalog's transition into the new medium, but didn't elaborate on whether the recordings will the remastered. The deal also cost a pretty penny, as noted by Martin Bandier, chairman-CEO of Sony/ATV Music Publishing. "We signed a deal that would be considered very rich by the video game company but fair for the artists."

Let's commence the wild guessing -- which songs do you think will be chosen?

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqBeatles game will have 45 songs originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 31 Oct 2008 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beatlesharmonixmtv-gamesFri, 31 Oct 2008 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[45 songs headed to Beatles game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/31/45-songs-headed-to-beatles-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/31/45-songs-headed-to-beatles-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/31/45-songs-headed-to-beatles-game/#commentsFiled under:


A new detail regarding the Harmonix Beatles game came to light today. According to a report in Variety (lots of news from them lately), Harmonix "will be able to select 45 songs from the Beatles catalog recorded during their 1962-69 tenure within EMI" for the game (does that mean Let It Be is off the table?). The article also reports that the chosen songs will be overseen by Giles Martin and his father George, who was previously the Beatles' producer. It remains unknown whether or not the original recordings will be remastered or reworked for the game, with Giles Martin noting, "We are trying to present the songs as they were played, adhering to the (original) mix."

Of course, the only real question is which 45 songs will be appearing in the game. Feel free to post your favorites in the comments.

[Via Joystiq]

Joystiq45 songs headed to Beatles game originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 31 Oct 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beatlesharmonixmtvmtv-gamesthe-beatlesFri, 31 Oct 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Variety: 45 songs from catalog for Beatles game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/31/variety-45-songs-from-catalog-for-beatles-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/31/variety-45-songs-from-catalog-for-beatles-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/31/variety-45-songs-from-catalog-for-beatles-game/#commentsFiled under:

In addition to yesterday's volley of news about The Beatles' rhythm game, Variety has a few new details. According to the publication, who spoke with Apple Corps CEO Jeff Jones, Harmonix can select 45 songs from The Beatles' 1962 to 1969 EMI catalog. Apologies to all who were dying for a cameo from The Quarrymen. Ladies and gentlemen, you now have a number. It's time to start making those "confirmed track lists" you all are so fond of sending us.

Giles Martin, who served as music director to Cirque du Soleil's Beatles Love alongside father and Beatles producer George Martin, will oversee the game's music. Still no word on whether the original recordings will be remastered or not. Additionally, Sony/ATV Music Publishing CEO Martin Brandier told Variety that the deal was -- shocker -- unprecedentedly expensive. "We signed a deal that would be considered very rich by the videogame company but fair for the artists," he said. "It will have online implications that will be enormous."

JoystiqVariety: 45 songs from catalog for Beatles game originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 31 Oct 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apple-corpsbeatlesharmonixmtvthe-beatlesFri, 31 Oct 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Fanboy poll: The Beatles Rock Band game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/31/wii-fanboy-poll-the-beatles-rock-band-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/31/wii-fanboy-poll-the-beatles-rock-band-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/31/wii-fanboy-poll-the-beatles-rock-band-game/#commentsFiled under:


So yesterday we sat in on a conference call about the upcoming Beatles Rock Band game. We don't have much in the way of details, other than it'll be a retail disc game and not DLC. When asked about the music in the game, the consoles it'll be on, and the interoperability between Rock Band and its sequel, Rock Band 2, Harmonix, Apple Corp. and MTV Games were kind of hush-hush.

We figured it was time we polled our readers on what they'd want in the game. Head past the break and let your voice be heard!

Continue reading Wii Fanboy poll: The Beatles Rock Band game

JoystiqWii Fanboy poll: The Beatles Rock Band game originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 31 Oct 2008 08:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apple-corpbeatlesharmonixmtvmtv-gamesmusicrhythmrock-bandrock-band-2Fri, 31 Oct 2008 08:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Harmonix: Beatles project in dev, not Rock Band]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/30/harmonix-beatles-project-in-dev-not-rock-band/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/30/harmonix-beatles-project-in-dev-not-rock-band/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/30/harmonix-beatles-project-in-dev-not-rock-band/#commentsFiled under:

Just a bit ago, MTV and Apple Corp made an OMG MEGATON announcement regarding Harmonix's next video game project and it has to do with The Beatles. Yes, those Beatles.

Details are light, but we know that this Harmonix developed Beatles game will NOT be a Rock Band spin-off or Rock Band branded in any way. Instead, the Beatles game will be its own custom title. We also learn that the music catalog will encompass their entire career, include visual imagery from each album and we're also told that we can expect "a number of new dimensions" from team Harmonix. Expect more information over the course of the year, because this Harmonix developed Beatles musical game-o-fun will not make it to retail until Holiday 2009.

JoystiqHarmonix: Beatles project in dev, not Rock Band originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Oct 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beatleseaharmonixmtv-gamesThu, 30 Oct 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Beatles and MTV Games team up for a new game (not Rock Band!)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/30/the-beatles-and-mtv-games-team-up-for-a-new-game-not-rock-band/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/30/the-beatles-and-mtv-games-team-up-for-a-new-game-not-rock-band/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/30/the-beatles-and-mtv-games-team-up-for-a-new-game-not-rock-band/#commentsFiled under:


MTV Games and The Beatles have teamed up to create a new video game, the band's first foray into gaming. Surprising many, this new game from Harmonix will not be an extension of their popular Rock Band series. "This game is not just a Rock Band song expansion pack. It's much much more than that."

"This will not be a Rock Band game," a Harmonix rep clarified. Players will be able to see new kinds of gameplay unseen from Harmonix in this new game. There's no announcements on what kind of peripheral support the upcoming game will feature. There will be a strong focus on visual imagery -- we're expecting a "Yellow Submarine" type experience. It's planned for a holiday release ... next year.

"By presenting their music and artistry through the creative filter of a groundbreaking video game, we are giving legions of fans and music lovers all over the world a profound, new way to experience The Beatles," said Alex Rigopulos, CEO and Co-Founder, Harmonix. "This game will be a celebration of the Beatles undeniable legacy."

JoystiqThe Beatles and MTV Games team up for a new game (not Rock Band!) originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Oct 2008 10:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beatlesharmonixThu, 30 Oct 2008 10:20:00 EST<![CDATA[MTV and Apple Corps announce Beatles game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/30/rock-band-the-beatles-now-official/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/30/rock-band-the-beatles-now-official/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/30/rock-band-the-beatles-now-official/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Not that it's much of a surprise anymore, but Apple Corps (not this one) and MTV have announced Rock Band: The Beatles an untitled Beatles music project, to be developed by Harmonix. While not a Rock Band expansion, this is a pretty major coup over Activision, owners of the Guitar Hero franchise. We're in the conference call now. More details to follow.

Notes from the conference call:
  • "This will not be a Rock Band title, this will be a custom title"
  • Journey through The Beatles first album through their last -- "samples" from their whole catalog
  • "A number of new dimensions" that you haven't seen from Harmonix before
  • Just in time for the holidays ... in 2009
  • Tracks are based on UK releases -- the idea is to play the songs through The Beatles career (not remixed or remastered tracks, we think)
  • Is the imagery tied to the existing art from the songs and albums? The developers aren't prepared to talk about specifics, but "visual imagery" is a big part of the project
  • Interoperability is not something that's being talked about yet
  • "Very little" can be said about the game itself today. "MTV and Harmonix was clearly the innovator in this category of games" -- Apple Corps was really impressed with Harmonix's creative and musical approach
  • "It's not a Rock Band game, it's a Beatles game. They deserve a fully dedicated title. [The game] takes advantage of the Rock Band platform in many ways ... [and it's] going to be compatible with existing Rock Band peripherals" -- we can assume that instruments from other music games (e.g., Guitar Hero) will also be supported
  • No hardware platforms announced
  • No comment on licensing Beatles tunes for other games -- this is an exclusive arrangement for Beatles music in video games (as for digital distribution of The Beatles catalog on music services (e.g., iTunes): Apple Corps is still working out details; no announcement to make nor date nor anything else!)

JoystiqMTV and Apple Corps announce Beatles game originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Oct 2008 10:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apple-corpsbeatlesbreakingnewsharmonixmtvmtv-gamesPS2PS3rock-bandrock-band-2the-beatlesWiiXbox-360Thu, 30 Oct 2008 10:12:00 EST<![CDATA[The Beatles in Rock Band; MTV & Apple Corps tease 'unprecedented project' [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/29/rumor-the-beatles-in-rock-band-mtv-and-apple-corps-tease-unpre/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/29/rumor-the-beatles-in-rock-band-mtv-and-apple-corps-tease-unpre/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/29/rumor-the-beatles-in-rock-band-mtv-and-apple-corps-tease-unpre/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

the beatles
Apple Corps Ltd., the company founded by The Beatles to administer the band's music catalog, and MTV today teased "an exclusive agreement to develop a global music project." The two camps are scheduled to make an official announcement tomorrow, Thursday, October 30th at 10 am ET (2 pm in the UK). No further details have been presented, save for tomorrow's, uh, presenters: Apple Corps CEO Jeff Jones, MTV CEO Judy McGrath and President of MTV Networks Van Toffler.

Our highly tuned power of intuition tells us MTV has landed a deal to get The Beatles in Rock Band, either as a standalone product (à la the AC/DC Track Pack) or as DLC -- heck, why not both? In June, FT.com reported that MTV and Activision were both dangling bags of money before Apple Corps for The Beatles rights. Guess who had the bigger bag?

Update: The Wall Street Journal's sources say it's true: "The Beatles have licensed songs to MTV Networks' Rock Band video game series." Details mañana.

[Thanks, oolz]

JoystiqThe Beatles in Rock Band; MTV & Apple Corps tease 'unprecedented project' [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Oct 2008 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apple-corpsbeatlesbreakingnewsMTV-GamesPS3rock-bandthe-beatlesXbox-360Wed, 29 Oct 2008 18:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Activision, MTV Games going for Beatles rights?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/activision-mtv-games-going-for-beatles-rights/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/activision-mtv-games-going-for-beatles-rights/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/activision-mtv-games-going-for-beatles-rights/#commentsFiled under: ,

The Beatles are still a hot commodity after almost 50 years. Everyone wants to get a piece of the Fab Four's music and make oodles of boodle for themselves through either commercial usage, digital downloads, or even appearing in videogaming. Speaking of videogames, according to Financial Times, reps for the British music legends are currently in talks with both Activision (Guitar Hero) and MTV Games (Rock Band) in regards to potentially bringing Beatles master recordings to either rhythm game. Both Activision and MTV Games have not outright said that they have been gunning for Beatles rights.

Back in March, we heard rumblings about interest in a Beatles solo-Guitar Hero game similar to what's going on with Aerosmith and Metallica. Around that same time, rumors of Beatles songs going to iTunes hit and gave signs of a potentially broadening license catalog where there virtually was none before. What this means is that we know for sure the rights holders have interest in bringing out the songs; the question now is: who will get them? A victor might be found quickly as a deal could be "reached in a matter of weeks." E3 fits into that time frame; perhaps we'll know then?

[Via Gamasutra]

JoystiqActivision, MTV Games going for Beatles rights? originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Jun 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beatlesguitar-herorock-bandMon, 23 Jun 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guitar Hero: Beatles has been 'talked about']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/19/guitar-hero-beatles-has-been-talked-about/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/19/guitar-hero-beatles-has-been-talked-about/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/19/guitar-hero-beatles-has-been-talked-about/#commentsFiled under:



Guitar Hero: Aerosmith? Thanks, but we'll pass. Guitar Hero: Beatles? We're listening! Not that such a game has been officially announced, but Martin N. Bandier, the biggest of all bigwigs at Sony/ATV Music Publishing (the company that owns the John Lennon/Paul McCartney copyrights), would like to see the Liverpudlian legends in their own Guitar Hero game.

"It's something we have talked about and something I'd like to pursue," Bandier told the LA Times. Hear that? They've talked! It's surely only a matter of months until we're strumming our plastic axe to I Am The Walrus!

[Via IGN]

JoystiqGuitar Hero: Beatles has been 'talked about' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 Mar 2008 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionbeatlesguitar-heromusicrhythmWed, 19 Mar 2008 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Next stop for Guitar Hero: The Beatles?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/18/next-stop-for-guitar-hero-the-beatles/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/18/next-stop-for-guitar-hero-the-beatles/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/18/next-stop-for-guitar-hero-the-beatles/#commentsFiled under:


Help! We need somebody! Help! No, seriously folks, Martin N. "Marty" Bandier of Sony / ATV Music Publishing has officially stated that a version of Guitar Hero dedicated to The Beatles is something the company would "like to pursue." Now, we never intended to jump all over the "why isn't this on Rock Band?" bandwagon. Some music really makes more sense on Guitar Hero, but The Beatles? That just screams Rock Band. Of course, we understand why Mr. Bandier might fancy Guitar Hero over Rock Band. We imagine it's money. That's what he wants (that's what he wants). A lot of money. But just imagine all the people that could play on Rock Band (we wonder if you can). With any luck, Mr. Kite Bandier and Harmonix can work it out and come together. We just hope they don't make it bad. In the meantime, we'll just have to let it be and hope they don't let us down.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqNext stop for Guitar Hero: The Beatles? originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 18 Mar 2008 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionbeatlesguitar-heroharmonixrock-bandTue, 18 Mar 2008 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Guitar Hero: Beatles Edition a possibility]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/18/guitar-hero-beatles-edition-a-possibility/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/18/guitar-hero-beatles-edition-a-possibility/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/18/guitar-hero-beatles-edition-a-possibility/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Aerosmith is one thing, but a version of Guitar Hero packed with Beatles songs would be the holy grail for many classic rock fans. Unfortunately, that possibility has seemed as ephemeral as the holy grail itself, as Sony/ATV has been extremely protective of digital distribution of the Fab Four's back catalog (it's not even available on iTunes).

There is some reason to hope though, with L.A. Times reporting that Sony/ATV CEO Marty Bandier has said putting Beatles songs into a Guitar Hero game is "something we have talked about and something I'd like to pursue." Whether that possibility is something Activision would also like to pursue is not yet clear, but if the companies can Come Together, they'd both have a Ticket To Ride right to the bank. Come on Activision, Please Please Us and make this thing happen!

JoystiqGuitar Hero: Beatles Edition a possibility originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 18 Mar 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionbeatlesbreakingnewsclassic-rockguitarguitar-heroharmonixlicensePS2PS3Sony/ATVWiiXbox-360Tue, 18 Mar 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Celebrity Miis on tees]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/06/celebrity-miis-on-tees/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/06/celebrity-miis-on-tees/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/06/celebrity-miis-on-tees/#commentsFiled under:

It ain't Wii shirt day, is it? Maybe we're just in a fashion groove here, but this Beatles-Mii shirt was too good to resist. Just imagine the possibilities for other celebrity-themed Mii shirts. We've already seen a demand for celebrity Miis, after all, so why wouldn't we want to plaster them to our bodies? Whose Mii would you wear?

The best part of this shirt is that you can get the Miis for your own Wii -- on the Nerdy Shirts website, they've got the friend code listed. Go forth, young Beatles fans, and make friends.

[Thanks, Chris!]

JoystiqCelebrity Miis on tees originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Feb 2007 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BeatlesLet it BeLetItBeMiiNintendoshirtWiiTue, 06 Feb 2007 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[John Lennon + Halo 3 ad = instant karma]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/08/john-lennon-halo-3-ad-instant-karma/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/08/john-lennon-halo-3-ad-instant-karma/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/08/john-lennon-halo-3-ad-instant-karma/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Following hot on the heels of the Gears of War remix phenomenon comes a stellar entry in new Halo 3 "Starry Night" remix/mashup arena. It's surprising how well John Lennon's "Instant Karma" works with this ad, and it just plain trumps the Halo music, sorry Marty. Please don't go all Yoko on our ass.

[Thanks, Eric]

JoystiqJohn Lennon + Halo 3 ad = instant karma originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Dec 2006 13:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BeatlesbungieHalo 3Halo3Instand KarmaJohn LennonmashmashupmusicremixStarry NightXbox-360Fri, 08 Dec 2006 13:25:00 EST<![CDATA[The Wii zeitgeist, via YTMND]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/01/the-wii-zeitgeist-via-ytmnd/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/01/the-wii-zeitgeist-via-ytmnd/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/01/the-wii-zeitgeist-via-ytmnd/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The net's been busy this weekend. Here's a smattering of YTMND clips that best capture the zeitgeist of Nintendo's mighty Wii announcement. Few of these are safe for work. You've been warned.

JoystiqThe Wii zeitgeist, via YTMND originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 01 May 2006 07:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beatlesDSguntherkramerPS3wiiXbox-360ytmndMon, 01 May 2006 07:33:00 EST