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[Boom Boom Rocket update live, joined by five free tunes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/28/boom-boom-rocket-update-live-joined-by-five-free-tunes/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/28/boom-boom-rocket-update-live-joined-by-five-free-tunes/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/28/boom-boom-rocket-update-live-joined-by-five-free-tunes/#commentsFiled under: ,


Revealed earlier this month, a title update to Xbox Live Arcade's rhythmic detonator Boom Boom Rocket is now available, bringing with it some bug fixes, added peripheral support and, most importantly, bigger and better 'splosions. In addition to supporting dance mats and fake guitars, we've found that the game also works with Rock Band's drum set, yielding an activity both challenging and utterly embarrassing.

Arriving in tandem with the update is the game's long awaited downloadable content, announced by EA to be a set of five new songs:
  • "Eine Kleine Rochtmusik"
  • "Cannon in D"
  • "Sugar High"
  • "Sting of the Bumble Bee"
  • "Explode to Joy"
Yes, it seems someone's gone and shoved five more classical tunes through some sort of Eurotrash bastardization device, but we managed to enjoy the game despite that last time. Oh, and they're free until December 16th, after which they'll set you back 250 MS Points (an awkward $3 and 12.5 cents).

Update: The DLC is now live.

JoystiqBoom Boom Rocket update live, joined by five free tunes originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Nov 2007 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BoomBoomRocketEAElectronic-ArtsPogoXBLAXbox-360Wed, 28 Nov 2007 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Boom Boom Rocket update adds guitar, dance pad support]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/07/boom-boom-rocket-update-adds-guitar-dance-pad-support/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/07/boom-boom-rocket-update-adds-guitar-dance-pad-support/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/07/boom-boom-rocket-update-adds-guitar-dance-pad-support/#commentsFiled under: ,


Because clearly, a music game simply isn't complete until it can turn mild-mannered button pushers into gyrating vessels of awkwardness. Not that we mind -- we're quite eager to stomp our way through Bizarre Creations' fun rocket-based rhythmer again. In a recent studio update, Bizarre reveals a new Xbox Live Arcade title update for Boom Boom Rocket has made its way through the certification gauntlet, bringing with it the following changes (the most important ones highlighted):
  • Guitar and dance pad peripheral support.
  • Japanese and Korean language support.
  • Tweaked scoring system focusing only on accuracy.
  • The huge loud "noise" which popped up occasionally on endurance mode is now gone.
  • Occurrences of scores getting overwritten with a lower score when playing with 2 profiles signed in is now fixed.
  • Display updates when viewing the game through a VGA cable.
  • Friends leaderboard now shows extra information such as grade, accuracy, etc.
  • Multiplayer endurance mode fix for player colors swapping sporadically.
  • Slightly bigger and better explosions.
Now if we could just get our arthritic hands on some new downloadable songs (actual music this time, please), we'll really see some fireworks.

[Via 1UP]

JoystiqBoom Boom Rocket update adds guitar, dance pad support originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Nov 2007 20:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bizarre-CreationsBizarreCreationsBoom-Boom-RocketBoomBoomRocketMusicXBLAXbox-360Wed, 07 Nov 2007 20:45:00 EST<![CDATA[New Boom Boom Rocket DLC is on its way]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/05/new-boom-boom-rocket-dlc-is-on-its-way/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/05/new-boom-boom-rocket-dlc-is-on-its-way/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/05/new-boom-boom-rocket-dlc-is-on-its-way/#commentsFiled under: ,


Bizarre Creations has confirmed that they are currently working on downloadable content for their firecracker of an XBLA game Boom Boom Rocket. The specifics like price and release date are still unknown, but what we do know is that the DLC will include five new songs. Which new songs? Well, that also has yet to be confirmed, but they did hint that the new tracks will be harder and should pose a challenge to even the most experienced Boom Boom Rocketers. We'll be sure to keep our ears open and our eyes peeled for any new info that heads our way concerning the new Boom Boom Rocket DLC. Boom!

JoystiqNew Boom Boom Rocket DLC is on its way originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Jul 2007 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcadebbrbizarre creationsBizarreCreationsboom boom rocketBoomBoomRocketdlcxblaxbox live arcadeXboxLiveArcadeThu, 05 Jul 2007 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bizarre's Boom Boom Rocket firework blow out]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/25/bizarres-boom-boom-rocket-firework-blow-out/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/25/bizarres-boom-boom-rocket-firework-blow-out/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/25/bizarres-boom-boom-rocket-firework-blow-out/#commentsFiled under: ,


Bizarre Creation's latest Studio Update goes into the mechanics of Boom Boom Rocket's fireworks. While it has no effect on the gameplay, it's cool to see the amount of detail that went into creating the different types of standard fireworks. On top of that, the details on what purpose they have in the musical timing, and when they are most frequently seen is also cool. Beyond the description for the types of fireworks, Bizarre also shed some light on the size of the title (around 73 MB), the level of detail in the city, and even a few of the easter eggs found in the environment. If you want to get the full skinny, click the "Read" link.

JoystiqBizarre's Boom Boom Rocket firework blow out originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Apr 2007 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ArcadeB B RBBRBizarreBizarre CreationsBizarre OnlineBizarreCreationsBizarreOnlineBoom Boom RocketBoomBoomRocketLive ArcadeLiveArcadeX B L AXBLAXbox Live ArcadeXboxLiveArcadeWed, 25 Apr 2007 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Live Top Ten: Symphony of Fire]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/23/live-top-ten-symphony-of-fire/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/23/live-top-ten-symphony-of-fire/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/23/live-top-ten-symphony-of-fire/#commentsFiled under: ,


This week's Live Top Ten is actually very similar to last week, with one minor exception. Gears of War, Rainbow Six Vegas, Guitar Hero II, CoD 3 and GRAW 2 all hold their previous standings in the top half with pride. Boom Boom Rocket makes an explosive appearance at the top of the bottom half, with Crackdown, Oblivion, Pro Evolution Soccer, and Madden '07 all shoving down a spot to make way for the Celebration of Light that is BBR. Full list available after the break, although with such a simple change from last week, you almost don't need to. Almost.

Continue reading Live Top Ten: Symphony of Fire

JoystiqLive Top Ten: Symphony of Fire originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BBRBoom Boom RocketBoomBoomRocketLive Top 10Live Top TenLiveTop10LiveTopTenXbox LiveXboxLiveMon, 23 Apr 2007 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Electronic Arts opens Live Arcade website]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/12/electronic-arts-opens-live-arcade-website/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/12/electronic-arts-opens-live-arcade-website/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/12/electronic-arts-opens-live-arcade-website/#commentsFiled under: ,


With Boom Boom Rocket available now and Wing Commander Arena on the way, EA has thrown its proverbial hat into the Xbox Live Arcade ring. It looks like EA is planning to be in for the long haul, as the company has launched an official site dedicated to Xbox Live Arcade projects. Right now, the only games spotlighted are Boom Boom Rocket and Wing Commander Arena, though there are two vacant spots left. So, expect at least two more titles from EA to land on the Arcade. The site also hosts forums and allows users to sign up for email spam updates. Each game also has its own mini-site with requisite videos and (surprisingly low res) screenshots. Hit the "read" link to check it out.

Is anyone out there enjoying Boom Boom Rocket so far?

JoystiqElectronic Arts opens Live Arcade website originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Apr 2007 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcadeboom boom rocketBoomBoomRocketeaelectronic artsElectronicArtslive arcadeLiveArcadewing commander arenaWingCommanderArenaxblaxbox live arcadeXboxLiveArcadeThu, 12 Apr 2007 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Is Boom Boom Rocket the new Geo Wars?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/11/is-boom-boom-rocket-the-new-geo-wars/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/11/is-boom-boom-rocket-the-new-geo-wars/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/11/is-boom-boom-rocket-the-new-geo-wars/#commentsFiled under:


As the second Xbox Live Arcade title from Bizarre Creations -- creators of Geometry Wars -- and the first Arcade title published by Electronic Arts, Boom Boom Rocket comes with considerable expectations attached to it. Geometry Wars is arguably the best title on Live Arcade and it's certainly one of the best values. It is also one of the most difficult. Boom Boom Rocket, by comparison, is a much simpler affair (for twice the price). Anyone who has played Dance Dance Revolution (or even Guitar Hero to a certain extent) will be instantly familiar with Boom Boom Rocket. As multicolored fireworks race towards a line at the top of the screen, it is the player's task to press the appropriate buttons as they pass the bar to the beat of the music. See, simple.

Boom Boom Rocket mixes up the formula slightly by sending fireworks in multiple directions, rather than straight up as in DDR. Half the challenge is seeing which firework will cross the line next. Thanks to the varying trajectories, the firework that appears on screen first won't necessarily be the first to cross the line. When multiple button combinations are flying all at once, it can get pretty hectic. Another edition to the DDR formula is the Bonus Run feature. Once your Bonus Bar is full, the Bonus Run can be activated with a pull of either trigger. This bumps the point multiplier up to x16 and makes your fireworks have more dazzling explosions. It's a simple addition, but it makes those moments a little more thrilling.

Continue reading Is Boom Boom Rocket the new Geo Wars?

JoystiqIs Boom Boom Rocket the new Geo Wars? originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Apr 2007 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbrbizarrebizarre creationsBizarreCreationsboom boom rocketBoomBoomRocketelectronic artsElectronicArtsWed, 11 Apr 2007 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Boom Boom Rocket explodes onto XBLA]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/11/boom-boom-rocket-explodes-onto-xbla/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/11/boom-boom-rocket-explodes-onto-xbla/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/11/boom-boom-rocket-explodes-onto-xbla/#commentsFiled under: ,


In a surprisingly late announcement, Bizarre Creations just released their second big arcade title to the XBLA ... Boom Boom Rocket! BBR offers crazy colorful visuals while you master setting off fireworks in rhythm to various music tracks. This fireworks show will set you back 800 Microsoft points and be released to the US, Canada and Europe initially with other territories to follow. We're excited to see if all the exploding fun is worth the 800 points, but knowing full well that there is no online multiplayer makes us a little cautious. No matter, that's what demos are for, so there is no reason not to give it a download. But remember fanboys, always have an adult nearby when exploding your fireworks. We don't want to hear about one of you accidentally blowing off your arms. Now, where's our lighter?

[Thanks, to everyone who sent this in]

JoystiqBoom Boom Rocket explodes onto XBLA originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Apr 2007 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcadebbrbizarre creationsBizarreCreationsboom boom rocketBoomBoomRocketxblaxbox live arcadeXboxLiveArcadeWed, 11 Apr 2007 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Boom Boom Rocket fires onto XBLA this Wednesday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/10/boom-boom-rocket-fires-onto-xbla-this-wednesday/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/10/boom-boom-rocket-fires-onto-xbla-this-wednesday/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/10/boom-boom-rocket-fires-onto-xbla-this-wednesday/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Serious Cat is in severe danger of losing his home this month, but do you care? No, of course not. You're about as giddy as a 13 year old girl at a Cheetah Girls concert, what with all your Xbox Live Arcade releases as of late. Is that how you get your kicks? He's got a family you know. A whole litter of em'. But don't let that prevent you from enjoying this EA Pogo rhythm title.

Boom Boom Rocket will be available this Wednesday (see: tomorrow) and will cost 800 Microsoft Points. We here at Joystiq love pushing buttons really fast to music when a game instructs us to do so, but we're a bit cautious with this one. Dance Dance Revolution for your fingers and fireworks? Sure, sounds great. We only hope that by "ten original tracks" they mean there are ten tracks on top of the classical music turned eurotrash we've already heard. Otherwise, a certain cat who's known to be serious may just earn a check this week.

Gallery: Boom Boom Rocket

JoystiqBoom Boom Rocket fires onto XBLA this Wednesday originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Apr 2007 21:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boomboomrocketxblaXBLAWednesdayXbox-360Tue, 10 Apr 2007 21:25:00 EST<![CDATA[BBR achievements explode to the beat]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/06/bbr-achievements-explode-to-the-beat/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/06/bbr-achievements-explode-to-the-beat/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/06/bbr-achievements-explode-to-the-beat/#commentsFiled under: ,


The obsessive types over at Xbox360Achievements have uncovered the full list of achievements for Boom Boom Rocket. X3F readers will recall that BBR is the second XBLA title created by Bizarre Creations (with the first being the excellent Geometry Wars) and the first Arcade title to be published by Electronic Arts. Boom Boom Rocket is a rhythm game akin to Dance Dance Revolution. Players match the appropriate button to the beat, trigger fireworks that are oh so pretty. The title contains the standard 12 achievements and 200 gamerscore points. Most of the achievements come from things like completing songs on a certain difficulty level or with a certain rating.

With the achievements revealed, could this mean that Boom Boom Rocket is close to release? We'll have to wait and see. Hit the "read" link to check out the achievements.

JoystiqBBR achievements explode to the beat originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Apr 2007 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbrbizarre creationsBizarreCreationsboom boom rocketBoomBoomRocketelectronic artsElectronicArtsFri, 06 Apr 2007 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Boom Boom Rocket blasting XBLA mid-April]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/05/boom-boom-rocket-blasting-xbla-mid-april/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/05/boom-boom-rocket-blasting-xbla-mid-april/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/05/boom-boom-rocket-blasting-xbla-mid-april/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Bizarre Creations' Boom Boom Rocket will be exploding its vibrant colors on Xbox Live Arcade in the next few weeks. Speaking to CVG at an event in North London, the developer promised the EA-published game in mid-April.

Given Xbox Live Arcade's release schedule is historically on Wednesday, that gives the developer three chances to make it before the end of April: 11, 18 or 25. (By the laws of faulty Geometry, mid-April can span the dates April 2 to April 29.)

The game, Bizarre's first XBLA title since their successful launch title Geometry Wars, involves bursting multicolored fireworks in rhythm to the electronic music.

Gallery: Boom Boom Rocket



JoystiqBoom Boom Rocket blasting XBLA mid-April originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Apr 2007 13:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bizarrebizarre creationsBizarreCreationsboom boom rocketBoomBoomRocketeaelectronic artsElectronic-ArtsElectronicArtsxblaxbox liveXbox-360XboxLiveThu, 05 Apr 2007 13:25:00 EST<![CDATA[BBR and The Club updates from Bizarre]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/26/bbr-and-the-club-updates-from-bizarre/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/26/bbr-and-the-club-updates-from-bizarre/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/26/bbr-and-the-club-updates-from-bizarre/#commentsFiled under: ,


Aside from mind blowing videos of EA producers with too much time (or skills) on the hands, Bizarre had a nice studio update this week. On The Club side of things, they revealed that several levels are now reaching the standard they set forth graphically to meet, as well as rapidly approaching having all the content present in the game, in one form or another. They also teased about having something special to show us regarding The Club in the near future.

Back with Boom Boom Rocket, Ben gave us word that the game has hit Partnernet this week, and is close to launching, though they haven't decided on a date yet. He also showed off the Bonus Run's graphical style with a slew of screenshots, complete with Geometry War style shockwaves, rising water levels and reflecting windows on skyscrapers. Check out the other screenshots by clicking the "Read" link.

JoystiqBBR and The Club updates from Bizarre originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Mar 2007 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>B B RBBRBizarreBizarre CreationsBizarre OnlineBizarreCreationsBizarreOnlineBoom Boom RocketBoomBoomRocketClubThe Clubthe-clubTheClubMon, 26 Mar 2007 19:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Perfect BBR Run blind-freakin'-folded]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/26/video-perfect-bbr-run-blind-freakin-folded/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/26/video-perfect-bbr-run-blind-freakin-folded/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/26/video-perfect-bbr-run-blind-freakin-folded/#commentsFiled under: ,


Sometimes you come across displays of greatness that just cannot go without acknowledgment. Meet Joe, a producer at EA, who has what can only be called an intimate understanding of the game Boom Boom Rocket. This can be demonstrated by his ability to play 1812 Overdrive, on hard, blindfolded, and hit 100% of the fireworks. Damn, we don't know what else to say, but watch the video, and be amazed. Then watch it again. We've got more BBR news for you coming right up, but felt this deserved special attention.

JoystiqVideo: Perfect BBR Run blind-freakin'-folded originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Mar 2007 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>B B RBBRBizarreBizarre CreationsBizarre OnlineBizarreCreationsBizarreOnlineBizzare CreationsBizzare OnlineBizzareCreationsBizzareOnlineBoom Boom RocketBoomBoomRocketE AEAElectronic ArtsElectronicArtsMon, 26 Mar 2007 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EA announces Wii rhythm and karaoke game, Boogie]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/22/ea-announces-wii-rhythm-and-karaoke-game-boogie/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/22/ea-announces-wii-rhythm-and-karaoke-game-boogie/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/22/ea-announces-wii-rhythm-and-karaoke-game-boogie/#commentsFiled under: ,


With Rayman's musical mini-games and the multi-peripheral DDR franchise already making passes at the Wii, it would seem that Nintendo's system gets along famously with the rhythm genre. The two are like a pair of dazed lovers skipping blissfully through a park, unaware that their uncontrolled flailing and unexpected gyration is leaving everyone in the nearby vicinity with bloody noses and swollen eyeballs. That certainly sounds like the ideal Wii experience, at least according to EA -- they've just announced Boogie, a Wii-exclusive rhythm game that wants you to dance, pose and sing your way to living room stardom.

On the heels of XBLA's Boom Boom Rocket and EA's announced intention to bust into music games "sooner than you think" comes a game which, at first glance, appears to be the result of Tim Burton drunkenly colliding with a Singstar demo kiosk. Boogie will see gamers producing the moves and vocals for a music video, presumably making use of that super secret Wii microphone. The nunchuck is also incorporated here, giving rise to the possibility that the microphone peripheral itself may also harbor motion-sensing abilities akin to that of the Wiimote. What's the use of a microphone if you can't twirl it about like a buffoon?

Gallery: Boogie (Wii)

JoystiqEA announces Wii rhythm and karaoke game, Boogie originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 22 Mar 2007 14:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BemaniBoogieBoom Boom RocketBoomBoomRocketDance Dance RevolutionDanceDanceRevolutionDDREAElectronic-ArtsMusic and rhythmMusicAndRhythmWiiThu, 22 Mar 2007 14:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Five new XBLA games shown, no Mizuguchi]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/06/five-new-xbla-games-shown-no-mizuguchi/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/06/five-new-xbla-games-shown-no-mizuguchi/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/06/five-new-xbla-games-shown-no-mizuguchi/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Serious cat is looking to make some more appearances in the future for XBLA Wednesdays. For as much as Wednesday is supposed to be all about Microsoft and arcade, we just haven't seen it. In a behind closed door meeting with Microsoft Casual Games' group manager, Bryan Trussel, and product unit manager, Chris Early, they showed off what's coming to the arcade.

The Microsoft Casual Games' division name is a bit of a misnomer. With the expansion of 50 MB to 150 MB, the door opens to less-than-casual games, with Castlevania: Symphony of the Night being the prime example.
Chris Early says, "From a player's standpoint it's about quick access ... I guess the way we look at a casual or arcade title is more about approachability, not a question of game length. It's do you need a manual to get into it, is it something you can get into and start playing relatively quickly ... something you can get gratification from instantly?"

New games coming to the system were Jetpac: Refuelled, a graphically enhanced version of the classic game Jetpac. Minigolf Adventures, which plays like a quirky arcade golf game and certainly has the expansion possibilities already built in. Eets: Chowdown, a port of the PC puzzle game and Pinball FX -- a pinball game. And, of course, Boom Boom Rocket (800 points). BBR is DDR for your fingers. There is a line at the top of the screen and when the fireworks shooting from every direction reach the line you hit the corresponding button and it explodes. Looks great and addictive. Per usual, other than BBR's price, no other talk about cost or announcement on release dates.

Although confirmed, Miziguichi's port of Every Extend Extra to XBLA was not discussed.

(Image galleries after the break...)

Continue reading Five new XBLA games shown, no Mizuguchi

JoystiqFive new XBLA games shown, no Mizuguchi originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Mar 2007 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The lads over at Bizarre Creation showed off their logo for the upcoming Xbox Live Arcade title, Boom Boom Rocket. They also told us that EA announced the pricing for the game, which is 800 MS Points. They go on to confirm that there are 10 songs, 3 difficulties, 4 game modes and multiplayer. They say that they're happy with the price point, given all that we're getting for the price. What do you think? Should we be paying the same as we did for Geometry Wars, or is there enough added to this experience to warrant double that price?

JoystiqBBR Logo & Price announced originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Mar 2007 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>B B RBBRBizarreBizarre CreationsBizarre OnlineBizarreCreationsBizarreOnlineBoomBoom Boom RocketBoomBoomRocketE AEAElectronic ArtsElectronicArtsRocketX B L AXBLAXbox Live ArcadeXboxLiveArcadeMon, 05 Mar 2007 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[512MB memory card and exciting XBLA news]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/05/512mb-memory-card-and-exciting-xbla-news/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/05/512mb-memory-card-and-exciting-xbla-news/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/05/512mb-memory-card-and-exciting-xbla-news/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

It looks like that silly rumor was true as Microsoft just announced a bigger memory card for the Xbox 360. The new 512MB Xbox 360 memory card will be available April 3rd, will retail for $49.99, and for a limited time will come pre-loaded with Geometry Wars: Retro Evolved. Simultaneously, the ancient 64MB memory card will drop in price to $29.99 (be on the lookout for clearance prices). Also, with the announcement of the new 512MB card, the XBLA size limit will be raised from 50MB to 150MB allowing developers to run wild with their creativity. Microsoft also announced that they'll be showcasing XBLA titles Boom Boom Rocket, 3D Ultra Minigolf Adventures, Eets: Chowdown, Jetpac Refuelled, and Pinball FX at GDC. Check out the full press release after the break.

So, after reading that informative spiel what is your gut reaction? We definitely agree with raising the XBLA size limit to 150MB and find the 512MB memory card to be a much better deal than the old 64MB version. And for curiosity's sake, is there anyone out there who just purchased a 64MB memory card and is kicking themselves?

Continue reading 512MB memory card and exciting XBLA news

Joystiq512MB memory card and exciting XBLA news originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Mar 2007 01:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d ultra minigolf adventures3dUltraMinigolfAdventures512 mb memory card512MbMemoryCard64 mb memory card64MbMemoryCardboom boom rocketBoomBoomRocketeets chowdownEetsChowdowngame developers conferenceGameDevelopersConferencegdcGDC 07GDC-2007Gdc07geometry warsgeometry wars retro evolvedGeometryWarsGeometryWarsRetroEvolvedjetpac refuelledJetpac-RefuelledJetpacRefuelledmemory cardMemoryCardMicrosoft-Game-Studiospinball fxPinballFxRarexblaxbox live arcadeXbox-Live-ArcadeXboxLiveArcadeMon, 05 Mar 2007 01:35:00 EST<![CDATA[EA busting into rhythm games 'sooner than you think']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/02/ea-busting-into-rhythm-games-sooner-than-you-think/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/02/ea-busting-into-rhythm-games-sooner-than-you-think/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/02/ea-busting-into-rhythm-games-sooner-than-you-think/#commentsFiled under: ,


Much like its title implies, Guitar Hero arrived as a sort of savior for a rhythm genre that had grown a little too obsessed with hypnotic arrows for its own good. The rocking success of Red Octane's franchise thrust the genre back into the console limelight, with its financial gyrations quickly drawing the fixation of several publishers. According to a recent interview conducted by Stephen Totilo of MTV News, EA is one such a publisher.

Upon being asked about EA's plans in response to the success enjoyed by titles such as Guitar Hero and Dance Dance Revolution, EA's Worldwide Executive of Music and Marketing indicates that the gigantic publisher is already positioning itself on the diving board. "I've been pushing for a long time to be honest with you," says Steve Schnur. "I think you'll see us breaking into the genre sooner than you think."

Of course, one could argue that EA is already doing so with the upcoming Boom Boom Rocket, an Xbox Live Arcade title which sees (and hears) players detonating fireworks in rhythm to music. Is the Bizarre-developed title merely the first step in an increasingly complex dance maneuver? And more importantly, will there be an insane peripheral? If anybody's going to exploit the untapped Glockenspiel-breakdancing market, it'll be EA.

See also: Electronic Arts mixes on iTunes

JoystiqEA busting into rhythm games 'sooner than you think' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Mar 2007 22:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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IGN got some hands-on time with Bizarre's Boom Boom Rocket, and spilled the proverbial beans on some of the game's elements. First off, with the controls, as you saw from the video, the fireworks are color coded like the A, B, X , and Y buttons on your 360 controller, and the direction corresponds with the the button's placement. The game modes include single songs, endurance mode where you will play a song as long as you can whilst the difficulty ramps up, and practice mode. All of those are available over three difficulties. Local multiplayer is available where a friend can join in and either compete to get the better score in a single song, or outlast you in endurance mode. Players are differentiated by the color of the arrow on their fireworks: black for one player, and white for the other. Continue reading after the break for the song list and other details.

Continue reading Boom Boom Rocket music & modes

JoystiqBoom Boom Rocket music & modes originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 Feb 2007 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>b b rBBRBizarre CreationsBizarre OnlineBizarreCreationsBizarreOnlineBoom Boom RocketBoomBoomRocketXbox Live ArcadeXboxLiveArcadeFri, 23 Feb 2007 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[New Boom Boom Rocket details, video]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/22/new-boom-boom-rocket-details-video/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/22/new-boom-boom-rocket-details-video/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/22/new-boom-boom-rocket-details-video/#commentsFiled under:

The folks at 1UP scored some time with Bizarre Creations to talk about Boom Boom Rocket, the upcoming title for Xbox Live Arcade. While there aren't too many new details -- Bizarre recently revealed quite a bit -- the interview makes it clear that Bizarre is out to create a simple yet addictive experience. The game will be instantly familiar to any fans of rhythm games, in which you press the appropriate button in tune to the music. The best part of the interview, the pièce de résistance if you will, is a video of actual gameplay. You can find it after the break.

Continue reading New Boom Boom Rocket details, video

JoystiqNew Boom Boom Rocket details, video originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 22 Feb 2007 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bizarre creationsBizarreCreationsbizzareboom boom rocketBoomBoomRocketeaelectronic artsElectronicArtsThu, 22 Feb 2007 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Boom Boom Rocket preview]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/22/boom-boom-rocket-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/22/boom-boom-rocket-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/22/boom-boom-rocket-preview/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

boom boom rocketSpeaking with Bizarre Creations' Ben Ward, 1UP has stirred up new Boom Boom Rocket details. The developer hopes to follow-up Geometry Wars with another broadly appealing Xbox Live Arcade title (the team has a 3-year-old tester) that's built on deceptively simple gameplay. BBR isn't gonna reinvent the rhythm genre, but it might win over some new fans. Purdy particles, Ian Livingstone's 'classical' soundtrack, and a trippy bonus mode add up to XBLA gold. Let's just hope the price doesn't reflect the quality... (but with EA publishing, don't expect another $5 gem).

Gallery: Boom Boom Rocket

Continue reading Boom Boom Rocket preview

JoystiqBoom Boom Rocket preview originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 22 Feb 2007 13:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Bizarre Creations latest studio update gives a synopsis of their upcoming Arcade title, Boom Boom Rocket. It is a rhythm game wherein you hit the indicating button/direction when the symbol hits the line at the top of the screen, thus setting off the firework. The better your timing accuracy, the more points its worth. That's the foundation for any proper rhythm game, and BBR is no different. The thing that Stu stressed was the speed of the game itself, with players be able to hit rapid strings of explosions in no time. Similar to Guitar Hero's multiplier system, Boom Boom Rocket has a bar that fills from 1x to 4x multiplier, and even has "Bonus Runs" where you get 8x multiplier when you activate Star Power pull either trigger when the bar is full and sparkly (pictured above). Due to the limited time of the Bonus Run, strategically activating it will be pivotal to getting the highest score possible.

The soundtrack will be comprised of recognizable remixed classical tracks, and really fits the mood and style of the game. Stu says he'll be supplying a track list and go into the graphical style in a future update. We can't wait to see the game in motion, but in the meantime leave you with a couple screens of 1st/4th of July goodness. Enjoy them after the break.

Continue reading Boom Boom Rocket Details and Screens

JoystiqBoom Boom Rocket Details and Screens originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Feb 2007 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fanboy reader and Xbox360Achievements.org Staffer DAKing240 posted an interesting rumor. The italics are necessary because while his source is directly from EA, he was asked to be kept anonymous. So really, it's kind of confirmed yet kind of not. The rumor itself, is that aside from Boom Boom Rocket, EA has more Xbox Live Arcade titles in the works. The one he got specific information about was a Xbox Live multiplayer Asteroids knock off, that is currently in beta testing. Also gleaned from the source's statement is that there are various weapons and power ups as well as the multiplayer sounds like it supports more than 2 players. That's all we have for now but evidently EA may be releasing more information in the near future. We'll keep you posted. So, does "4 player Geometry Wars" pique your interest? Or do you expect there to be Marketplace downloads required for each weapon, power up, and life?

JoystiqRumor: More Arcade titles from EA? originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 31 Jan 2007 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AsteroidsBoom Boom RocketBoomBoomRocketEA GamesEaGamesElectronics ArtsElectronicsArtsWed, 31 Jan 2007 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EA to publish Bizarre's new XBLA game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/17/ea-to-publish-bizarres-new-xbla-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/17/ea-to-publish-bizarres-new-xbla-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/17/ea-to-publish-bizarres-new-xbla-game/#commentsFiled under: ,

EA's first downloadable console title will be Boom Boom Rocket, a new rhythm game from the geometric warmongers at Bizarre Creations. The game sees players traveling through a 3D cityscape and launching rockets to the beat of the music -- the more accurate you are, the more spectacular the resulting fireworks become. Gamedaily Biz reports that Boom Boom Rocket should arrive on Xbox Live Arcade in Spring.

Chip Lange, EA's vice president of online commerce, feels they've crashed the party at the opportune moment. "Now feels like the right time. Across EA there's been a lot of internal excitement about Arcade and we're at a point where we can dedicate resources to building Arcade games. We're very excited to be entering this space. This is a great way to develop new IP and work with small development teams internally and externally to build a casual, fun game experience."

Originally thought up by EA's own Pogo casual games team, the game should be a welcome addition to the XBLA lineup, especially given the grievous lack of any other rhythm games. The fireworks in Boom Boom Rocket will be accompanied by ten original tunes from Ian Livingstone -- we certainly hope he's familiar with synesthesia.

JoystiqEA to publish Bizarre's new XBLA game originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Jan 2007 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Electronic Arts announced today that it is partnering with Bizarre Creations -- creators of Project Gotham Racing and Geometry Wars -- to create a brand new game for Xbox Live Arcade. Entitled Boom Boom Rocket, it will be the first Xbox Live Arcade game from Electronic Arts. Boom Boom Rocket is described as a rhythm music game in which players launch rockets to a musical beat. Better timed explosions create bigger fireworks displays. The game is set to include both single player and head-to-head play. Head-to-head, strangely, will be limited to local matches only (both players on the same Xbox), though there will be online leaderboards. The music tracks will be composed by Ian Livingstone, who has considerable experience creating music for film, television, and videogames. We're a little puzzled by the lack of online play -- especially this far into Live Arcade's lifespan -- but we're always open to new games. The title is expected to hit in the spring of this year. Follow the "read" link for a PDF of the official announcement.

[Thanks, Darksaviour69. Via Major Nelson]

JoystiqBizarre and EA team up for XBLA title originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Jan 2007 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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