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 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[1979: The Game gets another outing, 'baton-pass' narrative goes from translator to student protestor]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/11/1979-the-game-gets-another-outing-baton-pass-narrative-goes/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/11/1979-the-game-gets-another-outing-baton-pass-narrative-goes/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/11/1979-the-game-gets-another-outing-baton-pass-narrative-goes/#comments ' What we don't know about 1979: The Game could fill a book. First revealed in a video interview with RT in February, this ambitious open-world game from former Rockstar cinematic director Navid Khonsari has just enjoyed a second, even higher-profile unveiling courtesy of CNN.

The CNN piece included detailed descriptions of "levels" in the game; a "baton-pass" narrative will have you playing as an American/Iranian translator before taking the role of a student demonstrator. It's also curiously specific about the game's multiplayer mode, indicating that there are "12 maps planned for release" which, considering how early the game ostensibly is, strikes us as more wishful thinking than actual product description. Khonsari's company, Ink Stories, has done some cinematics work in the past but has never actually made a game, not to mention one containing notoriously expensive (and expansive!) open-world elements. In other words, there's not a lot to show since we spoke with Khonsari in February.

But regardless of the game's actual level of production - Khonsari says it's in alpha and "at least a year and a half away from release," though that sounds optimistic - his ideas are worth reading about. He wants 1979 to be a game where there are no good guys, and the moral ambiguity of real-world situations forces players to reconsider what they think they know about the world. In February, Khonsari told Joystiq that the game would be self-published, though he mentioned that the interest from third-parties was "overwhelming." Let's see if 1200 words on CNN adds to that interest.

Joystiq1979: The Game gets another outing, 'baton-pass' narrative goes from translator to student protestor originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Aug 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1979-the-gameCNNink-storiesNavid-KhonsaripcThu, 11 Aug 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Harmonix founders detail the company's failure-ridden road to success]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/03/harmonix-founders-detail-the-companys-failure-ridden-road-to-su/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/03/harmonix-founders-detail-the-companys-failure-ridden-road-to-su/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/03/harmonix-founders-detail-the-companys-failure-ridden-road-to-su/#comments
Believe it or not, things weren't always going so well for Guitar Hero and Rock Band franchise developers Harmonix. Starting out in 1995 as a "music tech" company, founders Alex Rigopulos and Eran Egozy took four years of "misstarts and product concepts that never made it anywhere" before they had any success. Talking to CNN Money, the two detail five years of strange, misguided, or ill-informed ideas that eventually somehow lead to The Beatles: Rock Band.

First up: "The Axe," something that Rigopulos describes as "a joystick music improvisation system." In so many words, you moved the joystick around and various sounds were produced. Unsurprisingly, only 300 were sold -- "a horrendous failure that led to a painful lesson," Rigopulos says. "You can't really build a business on an entertainment experience that only keeps people entertained for 15 minutes." Second, the two tried breaking into the (at the time) $10 billion Japanese karaoke market ... and met with resounding failure once again.

Luckily for us, lessons learned overseas came back with the duo and Harmonix became a game company. Rigopulos and Egozy quickly changed their company's focus from "music tech" to "gaming," creating Frequency and Amplitude soon after. Though the games didn't directly lead to the financial success achieved later with Guitar Hero and Rock Band (GH didn't get off the ground until RedOctane approached Harmonix in the early oughts), both helped the now major developer to get a foot in the door.

JoystiqHarmonix founders detail the company's failure-ridden road to success originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Sep 2009 21:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alex-rigopulosamplitudecnncnn-moneyeran-egozyfrequencyguitar-heroharmonixmtvmtv-gamesredoctanerock-bandthe-beatlesthe-beatles-rock-bandThu, 03 Sep 2009 21:15:00 EST<![CDATA['Octomom' game trademark may contend with ... OctoMom's trademarks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/16/octomom-game-trademark-may-contend-with-octomoms-trademar/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/16/octomom-game-trademark-may-contend-with-octomoms-trademar/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/16/octomom-game-trademark-may-contend-with-octomoms-trademar/#comments
In a move that shocked absolutely no one, lawyers representing Nadya "OctoMom" Suleman recently filed trademarks for the "OctoMom" name as it pertains to television, clothing and a line of diapers. What is surprising is that she may run into some legal contention, as mobile developer Super Happy Fun Fun filed for a similar trademark in March of this year -- only its trademark pertains to an upcoming iPhone game, once titled "OctoMom" (currently titled the much classier "Fertile Myrtle").

Super Happy Fun Fun (not to be confused with the amazing 2007 trailer for The Simpsons game) ran into trouble with licensing its game under the "OctoMom" name with Apple, according to SHFF CEO Mark Pierce. Though it seems likely that SHFF was trying to cash in on the recent popularity Ms. Suleman received, we're guessing Apple wasn't too keen on hosting the game due to its "ripped from the headlines" nature. Honestly, we're just hoping there won't be another lawsuit to cover.

[Via Game Culture]

Joystiq'Octomom' game trademark may contend with ... OctoMom's trademarks originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Apr 2009 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Applecnnfertile-myrtleiPodnadya-sulemanoctomomsfhhsuper-happy-fun-funtrademarkThu, 16 Apr 2009 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Follow Ashton's Twitter, get in an EA game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/15/follow-ashtons-twitter-get-in-an-ea-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/15/follow-ashtons-twitter-get-in-an-ea-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/15/follow-ashtons-twitter-get-in-an-ea-game/#comments
In what could be the most fitting metaphor for the new millennium, Dude, Where's My Car? star Ashton Kutcher is currently racing news network CNN to become the first to reach 1,000,000 followers on microblogging site Twitter. Because this isn't depressing enough, EA says it's going to give Ashton's 1,000,000th follower a spot in a new EA game.

Not sure which game the winner will appear in, but we're assuming it'll be Dante's Inferno seeing as, apparently, we're already in Hell.

JoystiqFollow Ashton's Twitter, get in an EA game originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Apr 2009 21:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ashton-kutchercnneaElectronic-ArtstwitterWed, 15 Apr 2009 21:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Ancel says 9/11 influenced Beyond Good & Evil]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/04/ancel-says-9-11-influenced-beyond-good-and-evil/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/04/ancel-says-9-11-influenced-beyond-good-and-evil/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/04/ancel-says-9-11-influenced-beyond-good-and-evil/#comments Thanks to the fine French-speaking folks at Eurogamer France, Eurogamer has a more thorough translation of Michel Ancel's interview regarding his upcoming game for Ubisoft, Beyond Good & Evil 2. According to their translation, Ancel reveals inspiration in "the theme of September 11 - the CNN show with army messages and the fear climate," among other, totally different things, like Hayao Miyazaki for instance.

He also revealed that this sequel will be a direct continuation of the story from the original BG&E, saying, "The story continues and we'll react on important events of the first." We've still got no good information on platforms or release date but hopefully the upcoming re-embiggened E3 Expo will shed some light on the game. "Players who like the first should like the second," Ancel left the interviewer with. We're keeping hope alive.

[Via GamePolitics]

Gallery: Beyond Good & Evil 2

JoystiqAncel says 9/11 influenced Beyond Good & Evil originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 04 Apr 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>911beyond-good-and-evilbeyond-good-and-evil-2bge2cnne3eurogamereurogamer-francegamepoliticshayao-miyazakiinterviewmichel-ancelubisoftSat, 04 Apr 2009 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 tops CNN's 'Best of the Blu-ray players' list]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/26/ps3-tops-cnns-best-of-the-blu-ray-players-list/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/26/ps3-tops-cnns-best-of-the-blu-ray-players-list/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/26/ps3-tops-cnns-best-of-the-blu-ray-players-list/#commentsFiled under:


CNNMoney has put together a list of the five best Blu-ray players you can currently find on the market. Sitting pretty at the top is our beloved PS3, with the highest grade given of A-. Why such a high grade? The ability to upgrade to Profile 2.0, excellent picture quality, 7.1 Dolby TrueHD audio, and fast load times for movies were just some of the reasons CNN cited. Their biggest complain seems to be about the lack of an IR receptor, which means you can't use universal remotes with it.

Not to worry, CNET and RemoteShoppe has got you covered in that department. Each site has their own Infrared-to-Bluetooth converter guides to help you pick out the best equipment for your needs. Check it out here and here.

Source -- CNN via EngadgetHD
Source -- CNET and RemoteShoppe via Engadget

JoystiqPS3 tops CNN's 'Best of the Blu-ray players' list originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 Nov 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blu-raycnncnnmoneyps3Wed, 26 Nov 2008 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ultimate Xbox punishment]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/17/ultimate-xbox-punishment/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/17/ultimate-xbox-punishment/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/17/ultimate-xbox-punishment/#commentsFiled under:


A user on CNN's iReport blog shared an image that could send shivers down your spine. When their two children wouldn't behave while playing the original Xbox, the husband of iReport user Kingfry of Mechanicsville, Virginia, punished the pair by nailing the system to a tree in the backyard. Honestly, we wouldn't be surprised if the Xbox was still functional -- that thing was a beast. Well if that is the case, and since that tree seems fairly tall, may we suggest a wireless internet adapter?

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

JoystiqUltimate Xbox punishment originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 17 Aug 2008 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cnnfunnyxboxSun, 17 Aug 2008 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[CNN talks gaming for health]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/06/cnn-talks-gaming-for-health/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/06/cnn-talks-gaming-for-health/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/06/cnn-talks-gaming-for-health/#commentsFiled under: ,


CNN is all over the Wii Fit thing. First, they had Mario Armstrong come in and demo the package for them, now Dr. Sanjay Gupta is taking time out to discuss the benefits of using games as a health tool, namely in the rehabilitation sector. We've heard stories about places using Wii to help rehabilitate their patients, but it's now gaining more ground, as Dr. Gupta mentions the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation is funding 12 different studies that will specifically see if games can be used as a means for making us healthier individuals.

If all the serious medical talk bores you, then laugh at the CNN employees doing the hula hoop minigame while one the Balance Board. They really get into it.


[Via Go Nintendo]

JoystiqCNN talks gaming for health originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Jun 2008 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cnndr-sanjay-guptaexerciseexergamingfitnesshealthrehabsanjay-guptatherapywii-fitFri, 06 Jun 2008 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mario Armstrong demonstrates Wii Fit for CNN]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/27/mario-armstrong-demonstrates-wii-fit-for-cnn/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/27/mario-armstrong-demonstrates-wii-fit-for-cnn/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/27/mario-armstrong-demonstrates-wii-fit-for-cnn/#commentsFiled under:


Just the fact that a major news outlet is covering Nintendo's Wii Fit isn't enough to be featured on this blog. Oh no, you have to present us with something we want. Here, CNN has succeeded, as the linked video showcases the title's hula hoop minigame.

Then again, you're not us, so perhaps you could care less about the hula hooping? If that's the case, then know that they tackle the subject of Wii Fit versus a traditional gym membership or workout regimen in the segment. The individual demonstrating the title for CNN, Mario Armstrong, sees this more as a game and less of a substitute for traditional exercise. He does make a valid point, however, in that Wii Fit could be a good motivator to ease people into a healthier lifestyle, as the physical activity in the game would make it easier for individuals to transition into a more intense routine.


[Via Go Nintendo]

JoystiqMario Armstrong demonstrates Wii Fit for CNN originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 May 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cnnexerciseexergamingfitnessmario-armstrongnintendonintendo-wii-fitwii-fitTue, 27 May 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CNN's Beck 'could care less' about games, bloggers are 'losers']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/08/cnns-beck-could-care-less-about-games-bloggers-are-losers/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/08/cnns-beck-could-care-less-about-games-bloggers-are-losers/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/08/cnns-beck-could-care-less-about-games-bloggers-are-losers/#commentsFiled under:


Glenn Beck, host of CNN's The Glenn Beck Program, has added his name to the list of concerned citizens against the violence and sexual content found in Grand Theft Auto IV. In a recent interview with Dr. Cheryl Olson, co-author of Grand Theft Childhood, Beck lashed out with indifference toward gaming and then proceeded to 'dis' bloggers.

"I will tell you that all these video gamers ... they're bloggers, as well as video gamers - they're writing all kinds of stuff about me [that] I'm the enemy now of video gamers. I could care less about video games. Video game bloggers? They're losers ..."

For someone who could care less about gaming he sure does have his share of opinions on the subject. Watch as Beck wastes Dr. Olson's time by ranting about his personal life as an internet joke when he realizes the good doctor wouldn't be able to add to his sound-byte reel of uninformed gaming hatred.

Our favorite part? Beck cashing in on the Grand Theft Auto IV hatred for ratings and advertising dollars and then proceed to accuse the 'game industry' of giving GTAIV an M-Rating purely for monetary reasons. Say it with us now. Irony.

JoystiqCNN's Beck 'could care less' about games, bloggers are 'losers' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 May 2008 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cnnfunnyglenn-beckgrand-theft-autogrand-theft-auto-ivgtaivrockstaruninformedThu, 08 May 2008 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Today's most therapeutic video: Wii rehab]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/04/todays-most-therapeutic-video-wii-rehab/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/04/todays-most-therapeutic-video-wii-rehab/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/04/todays-most-therapeutic-video-wii-rehab/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

America's sweetheart, Dr. Sanjay Gupta, reports for CNN about the Wii being used as a physical therapy device. Ohio State University's Medical Center, like some other hospitals, says the system is a fun way to help patients. No word on if those caregivers had to buy one of the GameStop bundles to score the console.

See the segment after the break.

Continue reading Today's most therapeutic video: Wii rehab

JoystiqToday's most therapeutic video: Wii rehab originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Jan 2008 01:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cnnnintendorehabtherapywiiwii-rehabwiihabFri, 04 Jan 2008 01:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Croal goes on CNN to discuss Manhunt 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/10/croal-goes-on-cnn-to-discuss-manhunt-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/10/croal-goes-on-cnn-to-discuss-manhunt-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/10/croal-goes-on-cnn-to-discuss-manhunt-2/#commentsFiled under:


Newsweek's N'Gai Croal recently appeared on the CNN program American Morning to discuss all of this business about Manhunt 2 and its gruesome acts of violence. What is most odd, Croal reports, is that the interviewer (Kiran Chetry) was reasonable and didn't have "an ax to grind." She instead asked Croal a series of reasonable questions.

Of course, she still brought up the whole "kids acting out murder" thing. Croal, however, brought up the common sense argument, stating that the game is rated "M" for mature, and isn't designed for children. Of couse, some kids are still going to get their hands on it, but he believes (just like many other sane individuals) that it is up to the parents to keep their kids away from material that isn't appropriate for them.

JoystiqCroal goes on CNN to discuss Manhunt 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Oct 2007 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cnncroalmanhuntmanhunt2Wed, 10 Oct 2007 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[CNN settles presidential race through Pong clone]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/08/cnn-settles-presidential-race-through-pong-clone/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/08/cnn-settles-presidential-race-through-pong-clone/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/08/cnn-settles-presidential-race-through-pong-clone/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Forget selecting your presidential candidate by analyzing their values and stances on the issues, CNN has created a new game that let's you make the most important choice in U.S. democracy the way God intended: Through a Pong clone.

While it's hard to get too mad at Presidential Pong, a game that includes both "Military Veteran" and "Lincoln's Statehouse" power ups, the absence of some candidates is a bummer. It seems Kucinich and Tancredo will continue to be denied a rematch of the 1978 ping-pong battle that left one man without an index finger and one just a little bit wiser.

[Big ups to our main man laserboyjc. Sorry we forgot.]

JoystiqCNN settles presidential race through Pong clone originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Jun 2007 11:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clonescnnPCpoliticspongFri, 08 Jun 2007 11:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Wiimote has unused 'voice translator']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/01/wiimote-has-unused-voice-translator/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/01/wiimote-has-unused-voice-translator/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/01/wiimote-has-unused-voice-translator/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Much like pinball wizard Tommy, the Wiimote hears but cannot answer to your call, according to a new CNN feature. The interesting piece includes a mention of an "audio translator" that "converts analog data such as human speech into a digital data stream." That may sound like a microphone, but it's really more of a microphone's brain ... and it's not being used. What makes this especially unusual is that the thing apparently costs $2. When you multiply that times the 2.5 million Wiis that have already been sold (not to mention separate Wiimotes) it equals well over one-hundred-thousand dollars ... or something.

Although they could probably blow that sort of coin if they wanted to, it doesn't seem likely. We'd expect to see some major usage of some sort of microphone attachment during the console's lifespan, surprising no one.

[Via Nintendo Wii Fanboy]

JoystiqWiimote has unused 'voice translator' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Jun 2007 11:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cnnwiiwiimoteFri, 01 Jun 2007 11:10:00 EST<![CDATA[How the Wii brought Nintendo back from the brink]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/25/how-the-wii-brought-nintendo-back-from-the-brink/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/25/how-the-wii-brought-nintendo-back-from-the-brink/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/25/how-the-wii-brought-nintendo-back-from-the-brink/#commentsFiled under:

According to CNN, there is a very untold story in gaming. One that has a silent, strong hero toppling the very foundations of the world. This world, of course, is the gaming industry and that protagonist is none other than the Wii. It's a heart-warming story of an underdog achieving success and defying its critics. It's already in the running for movie of the year.

OK, maybe we're flying a bit off the handle here. All ridiculous imagery aside, it turns out CNN is finally catching up with the rest of the world and hopping on the Wii bandwagon. Their latest piece focused on the console chronicles the incredible ride that was its rise to power and the current state of captivation it currently holds with the public. All in all, the piece is chock full of facts you already know (such a good fanboy, you are!), but we feel is still worth reading.

It'll bring a tear of joy to your eye ...

JoystiqHow the Wii brought Nintendo back from the brink originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Apr 2007 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cnnmicrosoftnintendonintendowiips3sonywiixboxWed, 25 Apr 2007 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Miyamoto's future: unique, simple, nonviolent games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/15/miyamotos-future-unique-simple-nonviolent-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/15/miyamotos-future-unique-simple-nonviolent-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/15/miyamotos-future-unique-simple-nonviolent-games/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Shigeru Miyamoto has spent a lifetime developing hit games for Nintendo -- Mario, Legend of Zelda, Donkey Kong, etc. Speaking to CNN's Talk Asia, the industry legend disclosed that he hopes to continue working on games for everyone to enjoy that tackle themes atypical for gaming.

"There is an abundance of themes that people are interested in," he said, "and video games have only touched on few of them." No examples are cited, but would he consider working with serious, mature themes such as heartache, loss, redemption, suffering, et cetera? Miyamoto, alluding to Nintendo's new mantra, also explained that his future projects will be simple enough for all ages to enjoy, which is something he has always seemed to be adept at, though our previously-mentioned themes will probably not feature into universally-appealing projects.

The interview touched briefly on violence in video games, a theme Miyamoto does not wish to tackle. "Looking at the overall picture, it is important to understand and feel the pain that people might have ... we also have to take a careful approach, even in the circumstances when we are not portraying direct violence." Though the game legend might have aversion to violence, his words imply that there are cases when non-excessive presentation of aggression is understandable. Then again, if his goal is to appeal to people aged five to 95, then violence is probably something he's better off avoiding.

The Talk Asia interview also serves as a primer for those interested in Miyamoto's background; much of the history discussion reads like a Wikipedia entry.

[Pictured: Link nonviolently driving a sword into Ganon's head. Don't worry, he doesn't die.]

JoystiqMiyamoto's future: unique, simple, nonviolent games originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Feb 2007 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cnnDSGameCubelegend of zeldaLegendOfZeldamariomiyamotonintendoshigeru miyamotoShigeruMiyamotoWiiThu, 15 Feb 2007 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[CNN needs police escort to escape Wii-craving mob]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/18/cnn-gets-police-escort-to-escape-wii-craving-mob/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/18/cnn-gets-police-escort-to-escape-wii-craving-mob/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/18/cnn-gets-police-escort-to-escape-wii-craving-mob/#commentsFiled under: ,

fanboys!CNN staffer Krysten Peek experienced firsthand how fanboy desperation can quickly devolve into mob-like assault. Peek was one of the (seemingly) lucky few to score a Wii during this past weekend's re-up, but on her way to the store's exit -- just after an employee announced that all units were sold-out -- she became an easy target for the lingering crowd of Wii-less shoppers:

"Were these people crazy?? Yes, they were ... unsatisfied customers began to grab at my bag ... I was caught off guard in a game of tug-a-war when a security guard intervened and rescued me from the chaos. He took me outside. And the crowd followed."

It wasn't until security flagged down a cop car and tucked Peek inside that the CNN hand escaped certain danger. Or so it would seem. Now they know her name. How long before they discover where Ms. Peek lives?

JoystiqCNN needs police escort to escape Wii-craving mob originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Dec 2006 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CNNFanboyMobWiiMon, 18 Dec 2006 13:29:00 EST<![CDATA[CNN's Chris Morris: PS3 is not yet worth it]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/16/cnns-chris-morris-ps3-is-not-yet-worth-it/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/16/cnns-chris-morris-ps3-is-not-yet-worth-it/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/16/cnns-chris-morris-ps3-is-not-yet-worth-it/#commentsFiled under: ,

With all the talk of PS3 shortages, it might be refreshing to hear someone say that picking the console up for launch isn't worth it. CNN's resident gamer Chris Morris reviewed the PlayStation 3 and concluded that, while it "has the potential to be all the PS2 was and more," it just isn't worth it yet. Reasons for his decision include a lackluster launch lineup, a steep price (from the perspective of a game machine, not as a Blu-ray player), and its power is not realized without a 1080p-capable TV screen.

In the long term, the PlayStation 3 could succeed in retaining Sony's dominance in the gaming field. But let's play devil's advocate for a minute: beyond bragging rights, how many of you are willing to shell out hundreds of dollars in order to play Resistance and Ridge Racer a few months before everyone else. Have those waiting in line lost that much interest in their current generation consoles?

For those bitter about not getting a PS3 tonight, consider this a mantra you can tell yourself for awhile. Morris suggests waiting until the console receives a $100-$200 price drop and some better games, but a drop that steep probably won't come until there's talk of a PlayStation 4.

See Also:
USA Today suggests waiting on next-gen

JoystiqCNN's Chris Morris: PS3 is not yet worth it originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Nov 2006 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chris morrisChrisMorrisCNNlaunch 06Launch06PS3Thu, 16 Nov 2006 18:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Fortune says the Wii name is "scary"]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/02/fortune-says-the-wii-name-is-scary/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/02/fortune-says-the-wii-name-is-scary/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/02/fortune-says-the-wii-name-is-scary/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

It's a bit early to be doing a year round-up, but over at CNN/Money they published the "Scariest tech of 2006," Mwahahahah! Some things deserve to be called "scary," like exploding batteries. Yes, exploding batteries are frightening. X-Men: The Official Game also deserves mention on the list, that game was scary and painful.

That's about all from the really "scary" department. The rest of the list is more a showcase of greed and technological tragedy. They discuss the Window Vista security problems, unreliable VoIP service Vonage and the battle between HD-DVD and Blu-ray. Fortune senior editor Peter Lewis says, "l'll wait for some mad scientist in Japan to create The HD-DVD Player With Two Heads, able to play both new HD formats." Lewis, being a good editor, fence-sitting and keeping the peace.

And just to beat a dead horse, already rotted beyond its comedic expiration date, the Wii made #10: "Just for the name alone."

JoystiqFortune says the Wii name is "scary" originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Nov 2006 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cnnfortuneps3wiixbox 360Xbox-360Thu, 02 Nov 2006 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[$149 PSP coming soon? CNN reports]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/08/11/149-psp-coming-soon-cnn-reports/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/08/11/149-psp-coming-soon-cnn-reports/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/08/11/149-psp-coming-soon-cnn-reports/#commentsFiled under:

The Sony warehouses are slowly filling up with stockpiles of "finished gaming hardware." Could it be the PlayStation 2 or PlayStation 3? P.J. McNealy from American Technology Research thinks it's the PSP. "[The PSP] has lost momentum. Nintendo has had a great run since it launched the DS Lite and Sony needs to regain some ground." Due to the recent sales boost of DS Lite, and the commercial success of major DS software releases, the analyst expects that Sony will drop the price of the PSP to a mere $149, $50 less than what it is right now.

According to McNealy, this can give Sony a major advantage. Nintendo is unlikely to drop the DS's price from $129 due to its inability to meet demand. Sony's PSP comes with additional functionality, such as the ability to view movies, that will appear to make it a much greater value to consumers. For the full report, visit CNN.

[Thanks, steve!]

Joystiq$149 PSP coming soon? CNN reports originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 Aug 2006 16:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>american technology researchAmericanTechnologyResearchcnndsmcnealyprice dropPriceDroppspsonyFri, 11 Aug 2006 16:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo wags finger at recent CNN rumor]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/07/06/nintendo-wags-finger-at-recent-cnn-rumor/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/07/06/nintendo-wags-finger-at-recent-cnn-rumor/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/07/06/nintendo-wags-finger-at-recent-cnn-rumor/#commentsFiled under:

Well well, I guess if you're CNN and reporting a rumor about a launch in September for Nintendo's Wii console, you're going to get some attention from the house that Mario built. Reiterating Iwata's earlier statements regarding price and launch, Nintendo's spokesperson, Yasuhiro Minagawa, quickly put out the fire.

"There's no change in our plan to release the console in the last quarter of this year. We are planning an announcement in September and it may be causing some confusion."

OK, so the statement doesn't really toss out the idea of the console releasing in September, but it does add some weight to a more credible idea of the console launching in October. As was and will be until September, we'll just have to wait for Nintendo's statement.

[Via Game Front]

JoystiqNintendo wags finger at recent CNN rumor originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Jul 2006 09:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cnnlaunchnintendowiiThu, 06 Jul 2006 09:03:00 EST<![CDATA[CNN Money sees Wii launching as early as September [update 1]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/07/05/cnn-money-sees-wii-launching-as-early-as-september/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/07/05/cnn-money-sees-wii-launching-as-early-as-september/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/07/05/cnn-money-sees-wii-launching-as-early-as-september/#commentsFiled under: ,

The words of CNN Money's Chris Morris, which suggest a Wii launch in late September or early October, are certainly tantalizing and not entirely unrealistic. Getting the machine onto store shelves and into our loving, embarrassingly weak arms would give Nintendo a healthy lead on the PS3 and Microsoft's glut of holiday titles, not to mention the joy it would grant fans of intergalactic bounty hunters and pointy-eared archers. Morris cites an earlier analyst report by P.J. McNealy of American Technology Research which notes that Nintendo already began manufacturing final retail consoles on 21 June, providing ample time until a prospective September launch.

Further evidence comes in the less sturdy form of past release dates of Nintendo consoles, with only the Gamecube missing an October or September release window. Of course, if the Wii launches worldwide immediately, one would expect a strategy similar to that of the DS launch -- that one happened in November as well. While it's not entirely unfeasible, Morris' suggestion is still swathed in speculation. With no details available on manufacturing, Nintendo may have simply started up the production line early (if they did so at all) to avoid launch shortages which plagued the Xbox 360 and are sure to plague Sony's machine.

Unfortunately, it looks like the only words we can fully trust right now are the ones from official (and sober) Nintendo men and women.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in!]

[Update 1: Nintendo has (predictably) put the kibosh on this one, with a spokesperson stating, "There's no change in our plan to release the console in the last quarter of this year."]

JoystiqCNN Money sees Wii launching as early as September [update 1] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Jul 2006 20:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Chris MorrisChrisMorrisCNNLaunch windowLaunchWindowLegend of ZeldaLegendOfZeldaMetroid PrimeMetroidPrimeNintendoSatoru IwataSatoruIwataSuper MarioSuperMarioTwilight PrincessTwilightPrincessWiiWii launchWiiLaunchWed, 05 Jul 2006 20:55:00 EST<![CDATA[And the award for 46th most important business personality goes to... Mike Morhaime!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/21/and-the-award-for-46th-most-important-business-personality-goes/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/21/and-the-award-for-46th-most-important-business-personality-goes/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/21/and-the-award-for-46th-most-important-business-personality-goes/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

CNN Money has named Mike Morhaime, the CEO of Blizzard Entertainment, as the 46th most important person in a list of 50 personalities that represent Business 2.0. We'll leave out our annoyances with the list as a whole (c'mon, naming "consumer as creator" as #1? Cop out!) so instead we'll use Mike's naming as an opportunity to analyze the importance of Blizzard's crowning achievement, World of Warcraft, to the World of Business.

The totality of CNN's tribute to Mike is dedicated to the wild popularity of WoW. The article claims that WoW is more than "just another video game", citing the uniqueness of the game's popularity (6.5 million users and climbing), profitability (WoW brought in $700 million last year) and peripherals (a thriving out-of-game market for virtual goods worth around $200 million) as factors that make Mike a uniquely influential business leader.

Big business' attraction to World of Warcraft's is no doubt due to the game's domination of MMO marketshare -- when you own 50% of a subscription based market you're bound to draw the attention of the suits -- so we wouldn't be surprised if WoW isn't the company's last MMO, despite earlier denials by a Blizzard staffer. Still, we feel sorry for Mike. On one side he's got the money crazy suits asking for more, MORE MMOs, and on the other he's got millions of StarCraft, Diablo and WarCraft fans screaming for sequels to their beloved franchise. He deserves an award just for being able to maintain that smug smile!

JoystiqAnd the award for 46th most important business personality goes to... Mike Morhaime! originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Jun 2006 20:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BlizzardCEOCNNCNN MoneyCnnMoneyIndustryMike MorhaimeMikeMorhaimeMoneyWorld of WarcraftWorldOfWarcraftWoWWed, 21 Jun 2006 20:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Foiled Columbine copycats are gamers ... so?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/21/foiled-columbine-copycats-are-gamers-so/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/21/foiled-columbine-copycats-are-gamers-so/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/21/foiled-columbine-copycats-are-gamers-so/#commentsFiled under:

Police foiled the school shooting plot of five Riverton, Kansas youths yesterday after being tipped off to their plans via MySpace. Yesterday's date was significant in that it marked the anniversary of the Columbine high school shooting in Colorado in 1999 and was also Adolf Hitler's birthday. So we're talking about five psychologically disturbed teenage boys who decided to solve their problems with guns.

Cue the video games made them do it explanation! CNN reports that "investigators had learned the suspects were computer buffs who liked violent video games." Now understand, about 110% of male teenagers in America play "violent" video games, so what's the real connection? I would be far more concerned with the "documents about firearms and references to Armageddon in two suspects' school lockers" than I would be about them shooting Strogg on the planet Stroggos.

[Thanks, SickNic, Scott, and r0Be]

JoystiqFoiled Columbine copycats are gamers ... so? originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Apr 2006 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CNNColumbineScapegoatFri, 21 Apr 2006 11:28:00 EST<![CDATA[More on Majesco's fall from grace]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/01/24/more-on-majescos-fall-from-grace/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/01/24/more-on-majescos-fall-from-grace/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/01/24/more-on-majescos-fall-from-grace/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

CNN are featuring a look at publisher Majesco's problems, after the company's decision last week to withdraw from the premium console market. It's a sad tale of ambition backfiring and promising titles failing to live up to expectations, with a very real impact on the company's revenue and stock.

The CNN article points out that Midway, Atari and Acclaim have all been to the brink of bankruptcy and back, Majesco may still make it through. The company's move towards budget and handheld titles, as well as emerging markets such as casual and downloadable games, seems a wise one--we may even see another Psychonauts in amongst the budget bin.

[Thanks, Ashcrotch]

JoystiqMore on Majesco's fall from grace originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Jan 2006 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>budget gamingBudgetGamingcnneconomicsfinancialsgames industryGamesIndustrymajescoPCPS2publishersXboxTue, 24 Jan 2006 08:30:00 EST