Joystiq

Nexon, Valve announce Counter-Strike Online 2 for Asian territories

Jordan Mallory — Fri, 06 Apr 2012 20:15:00 EST

South Korean developer Nexon this week announced Counter-Strike Online 2, a sequel to its successful made-for-Asian-gaming-cafes port of the original Counter-Strike. Developed under license from Valve, Counter-Strike Online 2 will launch in China, South Korea, Japan and "other areas in Southeast Asia" on a future date.

When it does launch, it'll run on an "enhanced" version of the Source Engine and feature "enhanced graphics, more realistic gameplay and powerful impact sensations," the latter of which troubles us slightly considering the game is primarily about bullets impacting squishy human bodies. We're not in a huge rush to experience that firsthand.

Continue reading Nexon, Valve announce Counter-Strike Online 2 for Asian territories

Nexon, Valve announce Counter-Strike Online 2 for Asian territories originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Apr 2012 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Don't call it a remake: Final Fantasy X is a 'remaster,' to be clear

Ben Gilbert — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 10:30:00 EST

While regaling Chinese Final Fantasy fans with tales of upcoming downloadable content headed to Final Fantasy XIII-2 during the Taipei Game Show, Square Enix producer Shinji Hashimoto also took time to answer fan questions about various FF projects. One such question directed at Hashimoto wondered if the upcoming PlayStation 3 and Vita re-rerelease of Final Fantasy X would be a "remake" (like the recent re-release of Halo: Combat Evolved) or a "remaster" (like last fall's Ico/Shadow of the Colossus collection).

Hashimoto left little space for interpretation of his answer, directly stating it is a "remaster." He also pointed out that "the screen is much prettier than the original," though we're unable to corroborate that just yet as the game hasn't even been mentioned since its announcement last fall at Tokyo Game Show 2011, let alone shown.

We've followed up with Square's US reps to see when we might hear more about the upcoming Vita and PS3 remaster, but aren't holding our breath for new info.

[Image credit: GNN.Gamer.tw]

Don't call it a remake: Final Fantasy X is a 'remaster,' to be clear originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Hong Kong gets pummeled by pre-orders for PS Vita

Jessica Conditt — Sat, 26 Nov 2011 12:30:00 EST

Pre-orders for the PlayStation Vita began today in Hong Kong, the second city to get access to the device, with all of the expected frenzy. Retail stores were mobbed, online stores were jammed, the government considered military quarantine of shopping districts -- you know, the usual. OK, China didn't contemplate violent force (that we know of) but it was a pretty manic pre-order scene all around, according to Richard Lai of Engadget China.

After witnessing the potential of U.S. shoppers to get down and dirty over $2 waffle irons, we're terrified to experience the homeland Vita pre-order spree. Just please, leave your pepper spray at home.

Hong Kong gets pummeled by pre-orders for PS Vita originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 26 Nov 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Kim Jong-il has hackers farming MMOs for in-game coin (and, we assume, Aviators)

Jessica Conditt — Sun, 07 Aug 2011 18:00:00 EST

It all makes sense now -- North Korea's infamously deluded dictator, Kim Jong-il, wants to be king of the castle in NCsoft's MMO Lineage, completely explaining his fetishes for extravagance and naked discos. Kim has hired a team of hackers to farm Asian MMOs for in-game coin, which they sell online for cash IRL, according to South Korean officials. Kim's hackers hail from North and South Korea, and work with operatives in Northern China, four of which were arrested last week in Seoul for organizing a hacking squad of 30 people, authorities said.

In less than two years, the organizers made $6 million, 55 percent of which went to the hackers, and some of that to Kim's agents in Pyongyang, Seoul police said. Officials believe the hackers report to a mysterious Communist Party agency named Office 39, which earns money for Kim through drug trafficking, arms sales and other illegal activities. Kim's slush fund is worth billions, American and South Korean officials said, and he uses it, in part, to fund a nuclear weapons program. This is truly upsetting, because the only thing more depressing than a nuclear attack is a nuclear attack funded by MMOs.

Kim Jong-il has hackers farming MMOs for in-game coin (and, we assume, Aviators) originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 07 Aug 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Keiji Inafune's sights are on China, still down on Japanese game industry

Christopher Grant — Thu, 30 Jun 2011 11:30:00 EST

At the tail end of a 1400-word diatribe detailing the myriad failures of the Japanese game industry, former Capcom all-star Keiji Inafune (who else?) gave us the first big hint about what he's going to be working on next. We know about his two new companies -- the multi-faceted Comcept and the game development house Intercept -- but what has been less clear is what kind of games he's going to make. As the creator of games like Mega Man and Dead Rising, Inafune is clearly able to appeal to Western tastes, so it's a bit surprising that he's not necessarily courting Western audiences.

We suppose it makes sense; for all this praise of Western game development, Inafune feels like competing there would be too difficult with a new company. "It may be too late - or too hard - to tackle the US market at this point," he writes. So instead of tackling the top spot, Inafune is looking towards the future. What's next? "The next big market is China. There I see many opportunities. My sights are on Asia," he concludes, wrapping up his essay.

Maybe this is selfish of us, but you've got to look out for number one, right? Here's the thing: We don't live in China, so we don't see any way to read this without acknowledging that Inafune won't be making games for us anymore. Is this because we said mean things about Lost Planet 2?

Keiji Inafune's sights are on China, still down on Japanese game industry originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Jun 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Kotick: Microtransaction-based Call of Duty 'just for China' [update]

JC Fletcher — Mon, 09 May 2011 16:26:00 EST

The microtransaction-based Call of Duty game Activision is making for China, first announced in a February investor conference call (and in the presentation that went along with it) is, at least for now, unlikely to leave China. Though, of course, the door's open.

Answering a question during an investor conference call, Activision CEO Bobby Kotick called the game "specific for the Chinese audiences," and clarified, "The product that we announced today is being developed just for China." Kotick added, "That's not to say it might not have applicability elsewhere, but what we're doing right now is focused on China."

The "applicability" could refer to integrating the free-to-play model with other, Western-focused iterations of Call of Duty (which would make sense given the Beachhead-developed "digital platform" in the works) -- or even an eventual localization of that game.

[Update: A previous iteration of this post, published before Kotick made these comments, presented the free-to-play Call of Duty as a new announcement, when it had actually been first announced in February.]

Kotick: Microtransaction-based Call of Duty 'just for China' [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 May 2011 16:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Razer, Intel, Tencent to bring Switchblade gaming device to China

Richard Mitchell — Thu, 14 Apr 2011 10:00:00 EST

Just in case you were worried, it looks like Razer's Switchblade ultra-portable PC "concept" is totally, really real -- in China at the very least. Razer, Intel and Tencent have announced "a strategic partnership aimed at expanding the entertainment possibilities for Chinese gamers" based around the Switchblade. Several of Tencent's titles, including League of Legends and Dungeon Fighter Online, will be optimized for the Switchblade and its magical keyboard.

There's still no release date for device, with the three companies only promising that there will be updates in "the months to come." That's probably for the best, as we're fairly certain that the ability to play League of Legends at any time will bring civilization to a screeching halt.

Continue reading Razer, Intel, Tencent to bring Switchblade gaming device to China

Razer, Intel, Tencent to bring Switchblade gaming device to China originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Apr 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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World Bank: Gold farming aids poor nations

Justin McElroy — Fri, 08 Apr 2011 22:30:00 EST

Sure, it may get old being hassled by semi-English speakers in World of Warcraft selling their virtual gold for real-world cash, but were you aware they were doing their part to bring economic parity to the globe?

It's true! A new report from the World Bank says that gold farmers in China and Vietnam bring money into their economy at an even better rate than farmers of cash crops. The study estimates that 98 cents of every dollar made from gold farming stays in the nation where the work was done, an impressive number compared to the 7 cents made from the coffee industry.

By cutting out middle men, poorer countries are using the $3 billion virtual goods market to funnel cash from the West into their own impoverished nations. Plus, you don't have to spend time combing Winterspring for Thorium Ore. Everybody wins!

World Bank: Gold farming aids poor nations originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Apr 2011 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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StarCraft 2 open beta begins in China on March 29

David Hinkle — Sat, 19 Mar 2011 16:30:00 EST

Just as we experienced here in the United States, mainland China is about to undergo a beta testing period for StarCraft 2: Wings of Liberty. Ever since striking a deal back in 2008, Blizzard and NetEase have been working to bring the game to the country -- on March 29, that deal will come to fruition.

Anxious gamers in the region can pre-load the beta client -- provided they have a Battle.net account or at least a willingness to register -- which will grant access to all of StarCraft 2: Wings of Liberty's multiplayer modes. Upon the conclusion of the unspecified beta period, Blizzard and NetEase will launch the game commercially, allowing players to buy 30-day access passes to the game for a suggested price of RMB 20 ($3.04). It's in line with a pricing structure that Blizzard outlined a year ago.

To pre-load the Chinese beta client, head on over to Blizzard's site.

StarCraft 2 open beta begins in China on March 29 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 19 Mar 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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China's Kinect-like eBox console launch delayed for 'improvements'

Randy Nelson — Tue, 18 Jan 2011 05:00:00 EST

PC maker Lenovo had planned to launch its China-exclusive eBox games console this month, but has decided to delay its release until sometime after February, a report by ITworld says. The hardware, which is said to have integrated motion-tracking technology similar to Microsoft's Kinect, is being held back for "improvements," according to the article.

The eBox is being built by Lenovo subsidiary Beijing Eedoo Technology to be a "family" device not reliant on high-end graphics. The company claims it will have 30 titles for launch, some from US and French developers. If one of them is Ubisoft and the game is Fighters Uncaged, the eBox is sure to be a hit.

China's Kinect-like eBox console launch delayed for 'improvements' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 18 Jan 2011 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PlayStation expansion into China planned

Andrew Yoon — Thu, 13 Jan 2011 21:00:00 EST

Sony is finally ready to take on one of the largest emerging markets in the world: China. A report in China Daily details Sony Computer Entertainment's plans on expanding into the Asian mainland. According to the report, Sony recently signed a letter of intent detailing plans to implement training and R&D facilities in Guangzhou province. The project is apparently "the first investment by SCEI in the mainland."

In addition to localization, Sony plans on developing games in the region. Facilitating homegrown content for local markets follows the standard set by Sony's other recent expansions into India and South America. Although a timetable for launch hasn't been set, expectations are quite high for PlayStation's first release in the country. Guangdong Animation City (GAC), an investor in PlayStation's Chinese expansion, noted that the industry could expand its worth to over 100 billion yuan (about $15 billion) annually within the next five years. Obviously, Sony would do well to capitalize on such staggering potential.

PlayStation expansion into China planned originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 Jan 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Report: Nintendo 3DS lifted from Chinese production line, posed for pics

Ben Gilbert — Mon, 03 Jan 2011 09:45:00 EST

Two full months before Nintendo officially releases its eye melting new handheld in Japan, reports of a Chinese factory worker stealing a unit from the production line have already begun to surface. 3DS Buzz spotted images allegedly snapped by one such factory worker showing off what appears to be a near-final 3DS from many, many angles.

Though an accompanying video shows Super Mario 64 DS being added to the cartridge slot, it seems that the unit is unable to run any retail games, only booting a black screen with the SDK version and memory information (96 steaming hot megabytes of RAM, for those wondering). That said, if you desperately needed to know how the 3DS will stack up next to your GameBoy Micro, visual comparisons to past Nintendo handhelds aren't in short supply here.

[Thank you to everyone who sent this in.]

Continue reading Report: Nintendo 3DS lifted from Chinese production line, posed for pics

Report: Nintendo 3DS lifted from Chinese production line, posed for pics originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 03 Jan 2011 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Trojan found attached to several Android games in China

Ben Gilbert — Fri, 31 Dec 2010 00:00:00 EST

We imagine dozens of tiny Trojan horses dangling off of Android phones in China as a result of a new Trojan Horse virus named "Geinimi," but frankly, that's not what happens. Adorable as that sounds, the virus attached to several Android games found on third-party Chinese app stores could be used to allow the attacker remote control of your Android-enabled device. Folks who picked up copies of Monkey Jump 2, Sex Positions, President vs. Aliens ... wait, what? Sex Positions?!

Anyway, the list also includes City Defense and Baseball Superstars 2010 (among others), and the only versions found affected thus far are those distributed via Chinese app stores -- "the original versions available in the official Google Android Market have not been affected," notes mobile security firm Lookout. "Though the intent of this Trojan isn't entirely clear, the possibilities range from setting up a malicious mobile ad network to creating an Android botnet," the company added. And while the Trojan has yet to pop up on North America-based Android devices, Lookout CTO Kevin Mahaffey noted, "possible infected apps could be posted to app stores targeting US users in the future."

If you've managed to end up with Geimini on your Android device, well, stop downloading games from third-party Chinese app stores. Also, you might want to look into security software that Lookout offers for free right here.

Trojan found attached to several Android games in China originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 31 Dec 2010 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Warface secures Chinese publishing rights, deploys gameplay footage

David Hinkle — Tue, 14 Dec 2010 03:30:00 EST

Late last month, Crytek revealed its free-to-play FPS for Asian markets, Warface. Today, the developer announced that Tencent has purchased the publishing rights for China and plans to rename the title for that territory. The new Chinese title has yet to be presented.

The game runs on CryEngine 3 and offers several different classes, gameplay modes, as well as co-op missions. Hit the jump for some gameplay footage.

Gallery: Warface

Continue reading Warface secures Chinese publishing rights, deploys gameplay footage

Warface secures Chinese publishing rights, deploys gameplay footage originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Dec 2010 03:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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FIFA Online 2 unplugging in China

Ben Gilbert — Mon, 06 Dec 2010 14:30:00 EST

In a brief announcement this morning from Shanghai, The9 revealed plans to disband operations of EA Sports FIFA Online 2 in China. The publisher is doing so via mutual agreement with FIFA Online 2's developer, Electronic Arts, saying the "license and commercial operation" of the game will end sometime in the "second calendar quarter of 2011."

No reasons were cited for the game's premature termination, though this isn't the first American company to end its contract with The9 early. Blizzard ended its relationship with The9 back in 2009, giving Chinese operating rights for World of Warcraft to competitor NetEase. Unlike that situation, however, it stands to reason that The9 won't suffer catastrophic losses this time around.

FIFA Online 2 unplugging in China originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 Dec 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Keiji Inafune remains critical of Japanese games, deems even Capcom 'complacent'

Ludwig Kietzmann — Mon, 20 Sep 2010 09:05:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

"I think Japanese gaming is dead. When I say these things, I'm called a traitor. But I love Japan. I want to save it." Keiji Inafune still hovers over the Japanese video game industry, defibrillator paddles at the ready. According to an interview with the New York Times, the outspoken designer and Global Head of Production at Capcom saw little at this year's Tokyo Game Show to change his pessimistic outlook on Japan's creations.

"I look around T.G.S., and everyone's making awful games. Japan is at least five years behind," he said. "It's like we're still making games for the last generation of game consoles." And Inafune's ire isn't just aimed at competitors -- he cited Lost Planet 2 as a clear failure to connect with audiences everywhere. "Lost Planet 1 was designed for the Western market. But the guys who made Lost Planet 2 were misguided. They made it too Japanese. They made it like Monster Hunter."

The Monster Hunter franchise is far more popular in Japan than it is elsewhere, and modifying it could alienate its current customer base. Inafune is willing to compromise here: "We basically want to make games that will sell globally, but some games might sell only in Japan.That's O.K. - as long as we make a profit on it." Still, he warned that Capcom remained complacent in the ranks of worldwide competitors, who are already targeting bigger markets like China. "I'm always so shocked when I see global sales rankings," he said. "I think: Wow, Capcom's ranked so low. However you approach it, we're dead. Resident Evil sold 5 million copies. That's still no good."

Inafune is well aware of how harsh his comments appear among Japanese creators -- who are "always so ambiguous" -- and expects to be treated like a "lunatic." With that kind of drive, he'll either be in full control of Capcom and the Japanese industry within the next five years ... or be relegated to playing cards with Yu Suzuki in a basement somewhere.

Keiji Inafune remains critical of Japanese games, deems even Capcom 'complacent' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Sep 2010 09:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Lenovo spin-off announces Kinect-inspired eBox console for China

Andrew Yoon — Sat, 28 Aug 2010 03:00:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

There is a huge untapped market for console manufacturers: China. While Microsoft, Sony and Nintendo struggle to deal with Chinese government regulations, one company is seeking to create a new console specifically for the territory. Lenovo is prepping the "eBox," a new console that has Kinect-esque functionality in mind. With 120 million families as "potential buyers" in China, it's certainly a lucrative opportunity for the company to pursue.

A team of 40 Lenovo engineers are now working at a spin-off firm called Beijing eedoo Technology, and although the company has been in operation for less than a month, it seems confident in what the eBox can do. "We are the world's second company to produce a controller-free game console, behind only Microsoft," eedoo's Jack Luo told China Daily. Although there's no mention of a playable prototype, or finalized design, the eBox is expected to be available as soon as the first quarter of 2011, with a price higher than the Wii, and possibly lower than the Xbox.

Like the Wii, eBox won't be designed to have "exquisite game graphics." Instead, it will serve to "inspire family members to get off the couch and get some exercise" -- a mantra that has served Nintendo well this generation. With eedoo claiming 16 "global video game developers" working on content for the eBox, it won't be long until China will be able to get its share of yoga, pilates and dancing video games.

Lenovo spin-off announces Kinect-inspired eBox console for China originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 28 Aug 2010 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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WoW: Wrath of the Lich King launching in China this month

Alexander Sliwinski — Wed, 25 Aug 2010 02:00:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

It's been a long time coming, but World of Warcraft: Wrath of the Lich King will finally launch in mainland China on August 31. The release date comes nearly two years after the second expansion pack invaded the free world. China is a tad behind the times in Azeroth, as the next expansion, World of Warcraft: Cataclysm, is planned for release later this year elsewhere.

China's latest World of Warcraft operator NetEase has faced a series of unfortunate events trying to keep the game running (and cash flowing) from the region. Obviously Activision-Blizzard is seeing enough money from China to make all the political hassles worth it.

WoW: Wrath of the Lich King launching in China this month originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Aug 2010 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Microsoft working on approval to sell Xbox 360 in China

Alexander Sliwinski — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 19:50:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

Microsoft is apparently working with Chinese regulators to allow the sale of its Xbox 360 console in the country of 1.3 billion people. Shanghai Daily (subscription required) reports that Ya-Qin Zhang, a corporate VP for MS in China, stated the company is hoping to launch the console legally in the country, but there's currently no timetable on when that will happen. Gamasutra notes the only officially available console in China -- which has a healthy gray console market -- is the iQue, based on N64 hardware and released in 2003.

Neither the Nintendo Wii nor Sony's PlayStation 3 are available in the country. Ironically, both those consoles, along with the Xbox 360, are manufactured in China.

Microsoft working on approval to sell Xbox 360 in China originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Aug 2010 19:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Analyst: Call of Duty Online could make $100 million in its first year

David Hinkle — Fri, 30 Jul 2010 22:30:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

Rumors have been flying around about a subscription-based Call of Duty game for some time now -- Activision boss Bobby Kotick loves the idea, because he loves money, and the company's other subscription-based game, World of Warcraft, is quite the cash-printing machine. So why not go down that road?

Many still believe Activision will, including Janco Partners analyst Mike Hickey. With the publisher's plans to break into China and Korea, Hickey told IndustryGamers he sees Call of Duty as the perfect platform for accomplishing that goal and strengthening ties with NetEase, the online powerhouse of the Chinese market. "We expect the Company [NetEase] could extend their relationship with Activision Blizzard, by establishing an additional license to operate Call of Duty Online in China and Blizzard's unannounced MMO, which will likely leverage their Battle.net platform," he said. "The eventuality of COD in China could bring an additional +$50 to +$100 million in sales and +$0.15 to +$0.30 in EPS in its first year of operation." EPS, to clarify, is short for "earnings per share."

Who knows what's in store for the future, but for now, rest assured: you won't ever have to fork over extra cash to play Modern Warfare 2 online.

Analyst: Call of Duty Online could make $100 million in its first year originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 Jul 2010 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Report: China to ban violent, sexual marketing of online games

Griffin McElroy — Sat, 10 Jul 2010 20:00:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

China's Ministry of Culture is once again cracking down on the online game industry in an attempt to limit the amount of "unwholesome" content the sector produces. According to a report from China Daily, the nation's officials are prohibiting the use of sex, violence or gambling to market Chinese developers' online games. Like the other regulations under this initiative, these restrictions will be effective as of August 1.

According to the government's report on sexually-charged advertising, hiring adult film stars to serve as spokespeople for online games is a surprisingly common practice in China. Over here, we get Mr. T and Ozzy Osbourne. That's a pretty fair trade-off, right?

Report: China to ban violent, sexual marketing of online games originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 10 Jul 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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China adding new restrictions on online games August 1

Griffin McElroy — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 23:30:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

Though China's online game market continues to exponentially increase in value, the nation's Ministry of Culture plans on slapping another round of restrictive regulations on MMOs and other online titles on August 1. The new regulations are designed to protect minors from "unwholesome" content while playing online, while also introducing measures which will prevent them from succumbing to the sweet, sweet siren song of online gaming addiction.

One major rule in the new regulations limits the purchase of in-game goods and services to virtual cash -- a regulation which seems to do away with the microtransaction business model altogether. Moreover, minors aren't permitted to conduct virtual transactions whatsoever. So, when you see that level 80 Mage that's still sporting his starting gear, don't be too confused -- he's probably just 14 years old.

China adding new restrictions on online games August 1 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Jun 2010 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Activision CEO teases Call of Duty plans for China, Korea

Christopher Grant — Thu, 06 May 2010 18:20:00 EST

While discussing his company's plans for the grotesquely lucrative Call of Duty series, Activision CEO Bobby Kotick teased another evolution in the war game franchise: globalism. No, we don't mean the globe-trotting "narrative" of the games, but rather Activision's plans to cash in on the rest of the planet.

"The popular global fantasy of being a soldier is allowing us to enter new geographies, leveraging expertise only companies like Blizzard have in markets like China and Korea," Kotick said. "We have dedicated teams in these new markets creating content for the audiences that, to date, have only been satisfied by Blizzard games. Soon we'll announce our plans for both China and Korea."

And that's all he said before returning to a general discussion of the Call of Duty business. Is he talking about the oft-rumored Call of Duty MMO or just a global release of the existing games, using Blizzard's proven methods? Kotick says we'll find out "soon."

Activision CEO teases Call of Duty plans for China, Korea originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 May 2010 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Chinese World of Warcraft project chief resigns

Mike Schramm — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 23:59:00 EST

Just when it seemed that NetEase had finally gotten things under control to operate World of Warcraft in China, it's hit another potential road bump. The company released an official statement to Chinese press announcing the resignation of project chief Li Riqiang, according to JLM Pacific Epoch, a research firm that focuses on China. The statement did not give a specific explanation for Riqian's departure nor did it name a possible replacement to fill the seemingly important vacancy.

Since taking over World of Warcraft operations in China from The9, NetEase has faced a series of difficulties. It seemed like the company had finally gotten back on track, however, as NetEase was recently approved to run World of Warcraft and the Burning Crusade expansion. It's as yet unclear how Li's absence might sour that good fortune.

[Via GI.biz]

Chinese World of Warcraft project chief resigns originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Feb 2010 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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ESA estimates 'over 9.78 million' pirated game downloads in December

Ben Gilbert — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 02:00:00 EST

[Joriel Jiminez]

So, okay, seriously, there are a lot of people out there stealing games. Like, lots. "Over 9.78 million" in just December of 2009, more specifically, according to a recent study conducted by the International Intellectual Property Alliance and the Entertainment Software Association. Scouring "the most popular peer-to-peer platforms" for a group of 200 titles, the study found that the worst offenders (by country) were Spain (12.5 percent), France (7.5 percent), Brazil (6 percent) and China (5.7 percent) -- the ESA also points out that these stats "demonstrate a strong correlation between countries that lack sufficient protections for technological protection measures and countries where online piracy levels for entertainment software are high."

Worse yet, the figures are repeatedly noted as being an under-representation of actual piracy numbers. "While they account for illegal downloads that occur over select P2P platforms, they do not account for the downloads that occur from 'cyberlockers' and 'one-click' hosting sites, which continue to account for high volumes of infringing downloads," the ESA echoes. The IIPA has since submitted the findings to the United States Trade Representative who could potentially impose sanctions on certain countries based on the recommendations.

ESA estimates 'over 9.78 million' pirated game downloads in December originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Feb 2010 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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NetEase approved to operate World of Warcraft in China

Griffin McElroy — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 20:30:00 EST

Is it ... possible? Can it be? Has the seemingly endless struggle to get World of Warcraft back online in China finally ended? Digital East Asia reports that China's General Administration of Press and Publication (GAPP) has approved NetEase's request for a license to operate the game and its expansion pack, The Burning Crusade. The government body issued a statement saying NetEase "has taken necessary corrective measures" to address GAPP's issues with the game. (We're assuming a few more monsters got deskeleton-ized.)

Though Chinese WoW players should be able to get back to their regularly scheduled grinding soon, it's unlikely that they'll ever gain access to any of the game's future expansions. But ... that's okay. They don't really add anything cool to the game. Death Knights? Pssh. Werewolves? More like Snorewolves, right?

[Via Massively]

NetEase approved to operate World of Warcraft in China originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 18 Feb 2010 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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NetEase temporarily suspending WoW account creation in China

Griffin McElroy — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 16:40:00 EST

Though the legal and political struggle between China's General Administration of Press and Publications (GAPP) and Ministry of Culture over whether World of Warcraft should be allowed in the country rages on, the game's operator, NetEase, is taking matters into its own hands. According to Reuters, the operator is suspending new user registrations for one week, starting today. During this time, NetEase execs will be waiting on pins and needles -- they recently re-submitted an application to operate WoW and The Burning Crusade directly to the GAPP.

In other words, you can probably expect another installment in the seemingly endless Chinese World of Warcraft saga within the next seven days. We can't wait!

NetEase temporarily suspending WoW account creation in China originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The9 invests nearly $15 million into Red 5 Studios, Fire Rain

Mike Schramm — Sat, 06 Feb 2010 05:00:00 EST

The9 didn't have the best year in 2009 -- Blizzard decided to take away its ability to run World of Warcraft in China, and as a result, the company reported a Cataclysmic drop in revenues. But the company doesn't want you counting it out of the MMO game just yet: Reuters says that The9 has invested almost $15 million into the ailing Red 5 Studios (which, coincidentally, is staffed by some ex-Blizzard employees) as well as China-based developer Fire Rain. Last we'd heard of Red 5, it was working on some kind of fantasy MMO, though that may have since changed to an MMOFPS. There's definitely an MMO game of some kind; The studio told our buds at Massively that even with The9's help, the game will be aimed at a worldwide market, not just Chinese players.

Time will tell if The9 has a solid strategy to rebound after the big loss of WoW, or if it's desperately trying to invest the last bit of capital to keep the company alive. Red 5's work has always seemed interesting -- here's hoping this infusion is enough to get it to a worthwhile release.

The9 invests nearly $15 million into Red 5 Studios, Fire Rain originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 06 Feb 2010 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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China close to announcing punishment for WoW operator

Justin McElroy — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 17:30:00 EST

JLM Pacific Epoch reports that, according to an unnamed source, the World of Warcraft struggle between China's General Administration of Press and Publications (GAPP) and Ministry of Culture (which has MMORPG operator NetEase stuck in the middle) may be near an end.

For those joining us late: GAPP said that it was illegal for NetEase to be collecting subscription fees on a game GAPP hadn't approved. NetEase continued collecting fees, because the game had been approved by the MoC when it was under the control of former operator The9. The exact opposite of hilarity ensued.

According to JLM's source, the two sides have reached an agreement and will announce the agreed-upon "punishment" in the middle of this month. Here's hoping NetEase isn't forced to relinquish all of its DKP.

[Via GamePolitics]

China close to announcing punishment for WoW operator originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Jan 2010 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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China: Video games cause teen pregnancy, murder

Alexander Sliwinski — Mon, 28 Dec 2009 23:15:00 EST

China Central Television (CCTV) is apparently on a tear, correlating youth violence and youthful indiscretions with online game use. Yahoo News reports the latest program from the state news channel, titled Confession of a Murderer -- Focus on Pornography and Violence in Online Game (Part Two), features a boy in a Beijing juvenile prison serving life after killing five people over virtual goods. The piece also allegedly states that up to 80 percent of violent inmates in the prison became criminals because of online games.

The previous installment covered a 14-year-old who apparently had two abortions after being led down the sex-crazed path paved by playing a dance game called Audition. Now, if it'd been called Hollywood Audition Process, that would have made perfect sense. There was also another report on kids doing speed during all-night gaming marathons. The government reports that of China's 338 million online users, 210 million play games.

An analyst projection of China's online game revenues estimates the country will produce $11 billion by 2012. Not that money has anything to do with the government trying push out foreigners and control the market -- it's all about the people's safety.

[Via GamePolitics]

China: Video games cause teen pregnancy, murder originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Dec 2009 23:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Chinese DSi is full of puppies

JC Fletcher — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 17:45:00 EST

Nintendogs is being released as a DSiWare game! But instead of being distributed over the Internet like most non-cartridge DSi games, Nintendogs will be distributed on the new iQue DSi when it launches in China. That's right, instead of a cartridge, it's being delivered on a whole DSi.

The iQue DSi will launch in China (with piracy-averting free Nintendogs) on December 15. Like other regions, iQue will offer 1,000 free DSi Points to new buyers, which they can spend on games including Paper Plane, Bird and Beans, the clock apps, and WarioWare: Snapped.

[Via Andriasang]

The Chinese DSi is full of puppies originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 Dec 2009 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Analyst: China's online game revenues to reach $11 billion by 2012

Griffin McElroy — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 10:00:00 EST

According to a report recently published by typographically-challenged research firm Analysys, revenues from China's online gaming industry will reach 73.1 billion yuan ($10.7 billion) within three years. If you're one of those people who have a hard time telling whether numbers are large, let us assure you that this one is very large indeed. As a point of reference, the entire U.S. gaming industry pulled in $11.7 billion in revenues last year.

The report expects online gaming revenues for the nation to reach $3.8 billion this year -- however, it also estimates MMO market penetration to only be at 27 percent, a number it expects will increase as internet access becomes more readily available to Chinese citizens. Of course, all the internet access in the world won't bolster online gaming revenues if all the good ones keep getting shut down for no reason whatsoever.

Analyst: China's online game revenues to reach $11 billion by 2012 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 Dec 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The9 posts 94 percent drop in Q3 revenues after losing WoW

Griffin McElroy — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 12:30:00 EST

Mother of pearl! We thought it was safe to assume that Shanghai-based MMO operator The9 would lose a chunk of its revenue after handing the license for World of Warcraft over to competing company NetEase. By "a chunk" we, of course, meant "a fraction." Not "almost all revenue," which according to the company's Q3 2009 financial report, is how much it lost year-over-year after passing off the rights to run WoW.

To put it numerically, The9's revenues dropped 94 percent from the same quarter last year. A hit that big must have left a sizable dent in the ol' pocketbook -- however, we're guessing the company's board members take some small, spiteful satisfaction from the tribulations the game has brought to its new operators.

The9 posts 94 percent drop in Q3 revenues after losing WoW originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Nov 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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WoW 'rejected' in China, government at odds with itself over decision

Randy Nelson — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 01:00:00 EST

China's General Administration of Press and Publications (GAPP) has ordered NetEase, which has been operating World of Warcraft in the region since September, to cease collecting subscription payments and signing up new players for the game immediately, calling these acts "illegal behavior." According to a report by the site JLM Pacific Epoch, the GAPP (most recently in the news for outlawing foreign investment in Chinese online gaming) has suspended its review of the game and returned NetEase's application to operate it in the country.

For its part, NetEase claims it has yet to receive any sort of official decree from GAPP. At the same time, an official from China's Ministry of Culture is said to have stated that GAPP's actions are "not appropriate." The situation now becomes one of which agency has final say, and if it's simply "shut it down," why.

We're pretty sure this isn't the kind of Cataclysm Chinese WoW fans were hoping for.

[Via WoW.com]

Source -- GAPP Halts WoW Review
Source -- GAPP Says No for the Operation of WoW in China
Source -- NeatEase statement regarding announcement by GAPP

WoW 'rejected' in China, government at odds with itself over decision originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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China bans foreign investment in online games industry

Alexander Sliwinski — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 03:00:00 EST

The People's Republic of China is building a great economic wall around its domestic online gaming industry. Reuters reports the General Administration of Press and Publication (GAPP) is prohibiting investment by foreigners in the industry, through either "joint ventures, wholly owned enterprises and cooperatives."

To keep things even more in-house, the order also forbids foreign companies from influencing Chinese gaming firms through technology or other support agreements. The GAPP estimates the Chinese online market is worth about $4 billion.

China bans foreign investment in online games industry originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Oct 2009 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Is that a PSP Go? Nope, it's a PSP Faux

David Hinkle — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Look, China -- we need to have a talk. We know you're back up to your old tricks again, trying to sell people knock-offs of Sony's new PSP Go handheld. We thought you learned your lesson last time? You had made all of these promises, told us how you were going to get your life back on track and now we have to find out about your Slide Panel Retro from some website? Where's the communication? We don't care if the thing has 4GB of space, a built-in camera, mp3 player and emulation software, it's just not right! To say we're disappointed would be an understatement.

So, here's what we're going to do: We're cutting you off. No more joyriding in the Jag or going down to Toshi Station to waste time with your friends. This is it, we're washing our hands of you . Do what you want, we won't be responsible anymore.

[Via Siliconera]

Is that a PSP Go? Nope, it's a PSP Faux originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Prince of Persia creator to keynote GDC China (likely in English)

Ben Gilbert — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 03:00:00 EST

It seems that GDC China attendees have more than just a Video Games Live performance to look forward to, as it was announced today that Prince of Persia creator Jordan Mechner will be keynoting the event. According to a release issued today, the acclaimed designer will be speaking on "the success of the Prince of Persia series, as well as his own success as a game designer, programmer, and finally, director and screenwriter." You read that right, folks -- the man most recently penned Jerry Bruckheimer's film adaptation of the PoP series, among other screenplays.

Unfortunately, those attending GDC China won't be getting the traditional, mandatory shock treatment at the show, as that has been recently banned. For shame, China! Hopefully Mechner will be enough.

Prince of Persia creator to keynote GDC China (likely in English) originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 12 Sep 2009 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video Games Live heading to GDC China

Ben Gilbert — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 04:01:00 EST

We know, we know -- living in Shanghai, China can sometimes make it hard to see your favorite video game music orchestra live in action. Don't fret, orchestral video game music enthusiast! Video Games Live! has just announced its intentions to perform at the Shanghai Hongkou Soccer Stadium, in tandem with GDC China, on October 13.

Better yet, those of you holding a VIP pass to the show (and those of you who buy one before September 19), will receive complimentary tickets to the Video Games Live! performance that wraps up China's GDC. Oh, and just in case you were wondering, the orchestra's name has an exclamation point in it. Also, we like to shout.

Video Games Live heading to GDC China originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 Aug 2009 04:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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China goes gangbusters on games (literally)

David Hinkle — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 07:00:00 EST

The Chinese government is cracking down on those darn computer games and intertron sites, Rueters reports, with a focus on those that feature gangs or ganglike stuff. While the situation has yet to reach Shark or Jet-sized proportions in the country, the Culture Ministry says these games and any sites that feature them "undermine morality and Chinese traditional culture." A recent report says that heavier penalties will be given to violators and contributes more on the country's stance, stating that these kinds of games "encourage people to deceive, loot and kill, and glorify gangsters' lives. It has a bad influence on youngsters." Wow, sound like Jack Thompson much?

It makes sense. Of course a Communist country would have a problem with anything that glorifies groups that aren't Communist. We do agree with the age thing, though. If you're a parent and you let your young kids play games with adult themes, you fail.

China goes gangbusters on games (literally) originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Jul 2009 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Shock treatment for gaming addicts halted in China

Justin McElroy — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 22:00:00 EST

In a step widely regarded by Joystiq staffers planning on traveling to China someday as "the right call," the Chinese government has halted the use of electroshock therapy to treat video game addicts. The order came down yesterday to a clinic in Linyi, Shandong province from the country's Ministry of Health, according to China Daily.

While we assume the practice was halted because of ... you know, the obvious, we'd like to believe that the treatment was stopped because it was just making the patients even more addicted to the Addams Family Electric Shock Machine game.

[Via GamePolitics]

Shock treatment for gaming addicts halted in China originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Jul 2009 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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