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[Xperia Play turns its marketing ship around with new ads (no more grafted thumbs!)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/22/xperia-play-turns-its-marketing-ship-around-with-new-ads-no-mor/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/22/xperia-play-turns-its-marketing-ship-around-with-new-ads-no-mor/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/22/xperia-play-turns-its-marketing-ship-around-with-new-ads-no-mor/#comments Kristin Schaal It's official! Against all odds, Sony Ericsson has finally ended its nearly year-long streak of embarrassing leaks, missed opportunities, and terrible advertising and come out the other side with this: a series of excellent ads for its "PlayStation Certified" Xperia Play phone.

Spokeswoman (and comedian!) Kristen Schaal walks you through some of the phone's strongest features in a series of five ads, all found after the break. Did you know the Xperia Play is the perfect phone for downloading apps, looking at kitten pictures, editing spreadsheets, and watching YouTube? Neither did we. But it's also got a slide-out gamepad, which Ms. Schaal is all too happy to show off.

Hey, Kristen ... do you mind if we call you Kristen? We know a guy you'd probably get along great with. Kristen, meet KB. KB, Kristen.

Continue reading Xperia Play turns its marketing ship around with new ads (no more grafted thumbs!)

JoystiqXperia Play turns its marketing ship around with new ads (no more grafted thumbs!) originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 Mar 2011 14:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingAndroidcommercialsKristen-Schaalmobileplaystationplaystation-phonepspsonySony-EricssonXperia-PlayTue, 22 Mar 2011 14:20:00 EST<![CDATA[New Zealand's TV3 apologizes to Sony with Marmite, Flight of the Conchords]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/04/new-zealands-tv3-apologizes-to-sony-with-marmite-flight-of-the/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/04/new-zealands-tv3-apologizes-to-sony-with-marmite-flight-of-the/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/04/new-zealands-tv3-apologizes-to-sony-with-marmite-flight-of-the/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The conflict between New Zealand's TV3 and Sony could have gone much differently than it did. Instead of suing TV3 into oblivion when it found out that the broadcaster had produced a commercial directly copying the PlayStation 3's "Montage" ad, Sony used the Kevin Butler persona to publicly absolve (and mock) TV3. In a PlayStation Blog post, Butler offered permission to copy all PS3 ads in exchange for "TV3's support in making the PS3 the OFFICIAL GAME CONSOLE OF NEW ZEALAND." And a Flight of the Conchords box set.

As if this whole story weren't cute enough, TV3 sent Sony a package containing not only the Conchords set, but other local treats -- and a plaque proclaiming PS3 the "official game console of Aotearoa." We'd never have believed it if we hadn't seen it ourselves: two media companies settling a dispute in a friendly, joking manner instead of litigation. Maybe every company should bring in a few fictional executives.

JoystiqNew Zealand's TV3 apologizes to Sony with Marmite, Flight of the Conchords originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Aug 2010 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AdvertisingCommercialsKevin-Butlernew-zealandplaystationps3SonyTV3Wed, 04 Aug 2010 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo 3's 'Believe' and PS2's 'Mountain' make 'epic ad' list]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/05/halo-3s-believe-and-ps2s-mountain-make-epic-ad-list/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/05/halo-3s-believe-and-ps2s-mountain-make-epic-ad-list/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/05/halo-3s-believe-and-ps2s-mountain-make-epic-ad-list/#comments Halo 3's amazing "Believe" campaign and the less well-known PlayStation "Mountain" ad have found a place on AdFreak's list of "The 25 most epic ads that aren't [Apple's] '1984.'" The Halo 3 campaign made it all the way to the eighth spot, while "Mountain," with its 1,500 extras, climbed to 17th place. The PS2 spot just barely beat out the incredibly memorable US Marine Corp "Chess" ad -- yeah, the one with the wizards and knights.

Halo 3's ad campaign was certainly an achievement, with atmosphere that eclipsed anything the game eventually provided. "Believe" had all those memorable elements: the diorama (wow, that diorama), the old men reminiscing, the History Channel feel of it all. It was the type of pretentious that works -- which is more than we can say for Halo: Reach's Nair boy and his Gatorade injections. Check out the "Believe" campaign and "Mountain" ad after the break.

Continue reading Halo 3's 'Believe' and PS2's 'Mountain' make 'epic ad' list

JoystiqHalo 3's 'Believe' and PS2's 'Mountain' make 'epic ad' list originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 May 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adfreakadsbelievecommercialcommercialshalo-3microsoftmountainplaystation-2sonyXbox-360Wed, 05 May 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Monster Hunter Tri ads mock non-monster hunters]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/01/monster-hunter-tri-ads-mock-non-monster-hunters/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/01/monster-hunter-tri-ads-mock-non-monster-hunters/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/01/monster-hunter-tri-ads-mock-non-monster-hunters/#commentsIt's rare for someone to berate you for not being tough enough for a Wii game, but that's exactly what Capcom's Monster Hunter Tri spokes-character Ironbeard does in this surprisingly funny series of ads. The Scottish huntsman mocks people for thinking that hunting real, regular-sized animals is hard when there are monsters to be hunted in Capcom's upcoming Wii game.

Not only are these ads, which you can view after the break, funny, they're also kind of effective. We don't want to look at this fictional character with shame! We want him to be proud of us for being man enough to hunt giant fake monsters.

[Thanks, Kieran!]

Continue reading Monster Hunter Tri ads mock non-monster hunters

JoystiqMonster Hunter Tri ads mock non-monster hunters originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 01 Mar 2010 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomcommercialsironbeardmonster-huntermonster-hunter-3monster-hunter-triNintendorpgWiiMon, 01 Mar 2010 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[New Xbox 360 Japan ads are ... interesting]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/26/new-xbox-360-japan-ads-are-interesting/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/26/new-xbox-360-japan-ads-are-interesting/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/26/new-xbox-360-japan-ads-are-interesting/#comments Microsoft is rolling out some new ads for the Xbox 360 in Japan. Spotted on the Japanese Xbox.com and featuring a trio of businessmen, the ads certainly represent a big departure from the "Do!Do!Do!" ads of yesteryear. The three suits include "Sanrokumaru" (translated 3-6-0) a man with an Xbox 360 sphere for a head. Together, the group forms the Xbox Special Division, which goes forth in order to obtain big name titles for the Xbox 360. One such title is Monster Hunter, which has already been announced by Capcom for the console.

In fact, at end of the Monster Hunter ad -- embedded after the break -- the text translates as "XXXX is next!" and then fills in "XXXX" with "Monster Hunter." As noted by Andriasang.com, the promotional site has several spaces filled with Xs, implying that Microsoft has some other game announcements up its sleeve.

[Via Andriasang.com]

Continue reading New Xbox 360 Japan ads are ... interesting

JoystiqNew Xbox 360 Japan ads are ... interesting originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Jan 2010 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adsadvertisingcommercialsjapanmicrosoftmonster-huntermonster-hunter-frontierxbox-360Tue, 26 Jan 2010 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Activision wisely promotes DJ Hero with Daft Punk]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/15/activision-wisely-promotes-dj-hero-with-daft-punk/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/15/activision-wisely-promotes-dj-hero-with-daft-punk/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/15/activision-wisely-promotes-dj-hero-with-daft-punk/#commentsIf Activision really wants to reach the widest possible audience with DJ Hero, TV commercials are probably the best way to expedite that process. If said TV commercials happen to feature Daft Punk's wonderfully catchy "Around the World," even better.

After the break, see one TV ad starring a digital version of Daft Punk (though, since the band is ostensibly robotic, what's the difference?) and another featuring both a clip of Justice vs. Public Enemy, and an improbably shiny DJ Hero controller. And if you like those, Activision continues to upload preview clips of in-game songs to its YouTube channel.

Continue reading Activision wisely promotes DJ Hero with Daft Punk

JoystiqActivision wisely promotes DJ Hero with Daft Punk originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Oct 2009 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisioncommercialsdaft-punkdj-herofreestylegamesMicrosoftNintendoWiiXbox-360Thu, 15 Oct 2009 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony wipes out interfering ad from WipEout HD]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/04/sony-wipes-out-interfering-ad-from-wipeout-hd/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/04/sony-wipes-out-interfering-ad-from-wipeout-hd/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/04/sony-wipes-out-interfering-ad-from-wipeout-hd/#comments
Sony has removed a controversial in-game ad from WipEout HD, which slammed the hover brakes on the futuristic racer by increasing load times. A Sony representative informed GI.biz that the commercial was removed while the company attempts to make sure that ads do not affect gameplay. The obtrusive commercial was part of a new deal between Sony and Double Fusion, an in-game advertising firm. It's definitely not a good sign when the first ad out of the gate ends up being a picture-perfect example of consumers' worst fears about in-game advertising.

JoystiqSony wipes out interfering ad from WipEout HD originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 Aug 2009 09:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adsadvertisingcommercialsdouble-fusionsonywipeout-hdTue, 04 Aug 2009 09:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Jump out of your seats for old game commercials]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/04/jump-out-of-your-seats-for-old-game-commercials/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/04/jump-out-of-your-seats-for-old-game-commercials/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/04/jump-out-of-your-seats-for-old-game-commercials/#commentsWe've seen many of the classic video game console commercials in this GamePlayer feature before, but never all in series like this. The site has compiled one ad each, in roughly chronological order, for game consoles from the Atari 2600 to the PlayStation 3, revealing a lot of actors who are very excited about video games.

That seems to be the common thread throughout most of these ads: since realistic enjoyment of video games doesn't play well on television, these commercials exaggerate the excitement of games to the point of personal injury. The Saturn commercial after the break, for example, makes some pretty terrifying suggestions about what playing Sega Saturn does for your body. At least it doesn't make your head detach from your body like the 3D0 does.

Continue reading Jump out of your seats for old game commercials

JoystiqJump out of your seats for old game commercials originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 May 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>commercialsretrosega-saturnMon, 04 May 2009 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Daily: Favorite gaming ad?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/ds-daily-favorite-gaming-ad/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/ds-daily-favorite-gaming-ad/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/ds-daily-favorite-gaming-ad/#commentsFiled under:


The Mega64 ad from yesterday got cogs in our mind turning. There have been a lot of good ones over the years, some of which have been featured here on DS Fanboy through Promotional Consideration. Like, this one. And this one. And this one we made ourselves. And ... well, you get the idea.

So what have been some of your favorite gaming advertisements? A random billboard? Some commercial you saw on TV? An ad you flipped past in a magazine? Out with it!

JoystiqDS Daily: Favorite gaming ad? originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Aug 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertadvertisementscommercialcommercialsprinttelevisiontvWed, 20 Aug 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo wants you to play for you (and celebrities)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/nintendo-wants-you-to-play-for-you-and-celebrities/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/nintendo-wants-you-to-play-for-you-and-celebrities/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/nintendo-wants-you-to-play-for-you-and-celebrities/#commentsFiled under:


Nintendo has launched a slick new website based on their new DS ad campaign, which features celebrities America Ferrera, Carrie Underwood and Liv Tyler looking very much like people having fun with DS Lites. The site is called "I Play For Me" and includes new commercials (we thought Liv Tyler was way too excited about writing her own name in Brain Age, but then we saw her excellently looped "L"), as well as video interviews with the three stars about their DS-playing habits. Basically, the pick-up-and-play nature of the handheld fits well with busy people. Oh, and girls can play games too.

The real irony of this ad campaign is that if you played for you, you'd have a DS by now. This is for people who would ostensibly play to be like these famous people. Of course, to truly be like these three, you'd have to take money from Nintendo in order to play DS, instead of giving Nintendo money.

JoystiqNintendo wants you to play for you (and celebrities) originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 May 2008 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>america-ferreracarrie-underwoodcarrieunderwoodcommercialsi-play-for-meliv-tylermetallic-roseTue, 20 May 2008 08:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo to start petal-ing 'Metallic Rose' DS Lite]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/16/nintendo-to-start-petal-ing-metallic-rose-ds-lite/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/16/nintendo-to-start-petal-ing-metallic-rose-ds-lite/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/16/nintendo-to-start-petal-ing-metallic-rose-ds-lite/#commentsFiled under:

Don't worry if you don't find the headline funny right away. Some puns take time to take root and mature, like a fine vine.

Okay, but seriously, the news: Nintendo has announced that the "Metallic Rose" DS Lite, a pinkish sort of model that many may feel compelled to bury in the garden, will become available at retailers "later this month." The model was previously attainable only as part of a Nintendogs bundle.

As of May 19th, you'll be able to see the Rose shown off in commercials which star "celebrity spokespeople" like Carrie Underwood and America Ferrera. Another commercial will feature Liv Tyler, the odd one out with a Crimson/Black DS and a name that doesn't sound completely made up.

[Via DS Fanboy]

JoystiqNintendo to start petal-ing 'Metallic Rose' DS Lite originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 May 2008 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CommercialsDSDS-LiteMetallic-RoseNintendogsFri, 16 May 2008 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony Europe releases new PSP ad, head scratching ensues]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/03/sony-europe-releases-new-psp-ad-head-scratching-ensues/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/03/sony-europe-releases-new-psp-ad-head-scratching-ensues/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/03/sony-europe-releases-new-psp-ad-head-scratching-ensues/#commentsFiled under:

All right, we admit, Sony Europe has the most insane and off-the-wall ideas when it comes to advertising. This latest advertisement for our lovely PSP shows a man and woman pulling, stretching, snapping, and popping each other's faces while talking about ... well, we weren't really paying attention because this is just ridiculous. We imagine it had to do with the features of the PSP, all with sexy British accents!

[via DCemu]

JoystiqSony Europe releases new PSP ad, head scratching ensues originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Apr 2008 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisementadvertisementscommercialcommercialssceeThu, 03 Apr 2008 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Deutsch wins PlayStation advertising account]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/30/deutsch-wins-playstation-advertising-account/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/30/deutsch-wins-playstation-advertising-account/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/30/deutsch-wins-playstation-advertising-account/#commentsFiled under:

After having divorced itself from their 13-year advertising company TBWA/Chiat/Day, Sony Computer Entertainment America has now decided who to hand the $150 million advertising account to. Pitchers for the account included Publicis & Hal Riney, Publicis West, Grey, Deautsh, Young & Rubicam and JWT with Deutsch being the eventual winner. As a result, don't expect to see too many PS3 octopus adverts as we venture further into the new year.

While this appears to be an America only deal, TBWA are still, as far as we know, in possession of the European advertising account. Hopefully SCEE will see the light, as SCEA has, and rid us of the dog-fluffing, ballet dancing adverts we've become so familiar with. At any rate, these are exciting times as we head into 2008. With all the 2007 titles having been released, things can only start improving for Sony and the PS3 from here on out.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqDeutsch wins PlayStation advertising account originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 Nov 2007 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accountadvertisingcommercialsSonyFri, 30 Nov 2007 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony drops ad agency responsible for Universe commercials]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/29/sony-drops-ad-agency-responsible-for-universe-commercials/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/29/sony-drops-ad-agency-responsible-for-universe-commercials/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/29/sony-drops-ad-agency-responsible-for-universe-commercials/#commentsFiled under:


It seems Sony is finally fed up with being the brunt of industry jokes with its long list of laughable commercials. In Sony's recent internal review for its $150 million advertising account, it eliminated its 13-year ad agency, TBWA/Chiat/Day, from consideration.

With TBWA out of the picture, it leaves four other companies in contention. Two companies, Publicis in the West and Deutsch have been requested to present further information, while the other two have not been contacted, according to Advertising Age.

The recently released company was responsible for delivering Sony's Universe line of commercials, which are currently airing on TV. However, while TBWA/Chiat/Day was tasked with delivering the new line of commercials, Superfad is the production company that actually created the ads, so there still is a possibility that Sony continues the impressive ads.

[Via Max Console]

JoystiqSony drops ad agency responsible for Universe commercials originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Nov 2007 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adscommercialsmarketingtbwaUniverseThu, 29 Nov 2007 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony America drops ad agency of 13 years -- now?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/29/sony-america-drops-ad-agency-of-13-years-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/29/sony-america-drops-ad-agency-of-13-years-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/29/sony-america-drops-ad-agency-of-13-years-now/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Advertising Age reports Sony Computer Entertainment of America kicked their ad agency of 13 years to the curb yesterday. TBWA/Chiat/Day was eliminated from the review of the $150 million PlayStation account. After all the numerous incidents over the years and the disastrous PS3 launch ads, the company finally turned things around for this holiday season. Looks like it was a day late and $150 million dollars short.

There's still some questions that'll probably be clarified when an official announcement of the new ad agency is made. For example, all information on the issue speaks directly to Sony America, however TBWA is also responsible for the twisted, disruptive, ridiculous, and sometimes racist, European ads as well. Sony has yet to comment.

[Via GameDaily]

Continue reading Sony America drops ad agency of 13 years -- now?

JoystiqSony America drops ad agency of 13 years -- now? originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Nov 2007 15:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adsadvertisingchiatcommercialsdayPS3PSPsceasonySony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericatbwatbwachiatdaythisislivingThu, 29 Nov 2007 15:56:00 EST<![CDATA[New Target commercial may be a bit too much like Sony's]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/06/new-target-commercial-may-be-a-bit-too-much-like-sonys/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/06/new-target-commercial-may-be-a-bit-too-much-like-sonys/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/06/new-target-commercial-may-be-a-bit-too-much-like-sonys/#commentsFiled under:

After watching Sony's latest round of PlayStation 3 commercials, it's probably safe to say most of us were awestruck, especially considering what lackluster commercials we've been subjected to for the past few years. While we assumed Sony's "marketing geniuses" created the new "Universe" ads, the company actually didn't have as much to do with them as previously thought.

In actuality, Sony enlisted the help of marketing company TBWA\Chiat\Day, which, in turn, "commissioned the talents of Superfad who set out to design an animated universe that literally explodes from the system," according to Superfad's website. While we've long said Sony needs to reach outside its current marketing team for ideas, we're happy it finally did. However, we're not too sure how okay it is when that marketing team then creates another commercial using the same artistic direction as the one it created for Sony, which is exactly what happened when Superfad created the Art Connects commercial recently for Target.

Although the two sets of commercials were created by different directors, the artistic similarities can't be ignored as both predominately focus on objects emanating from visually appealing black blobs. In the end, though, it's probably not that big a deal, as we're sure most consumers aren't dumb enough to confuse the two, but it is kinda strange to see both sets of commercials airing on television at the same time. Maybe next time Sony should make sure the company it hires to come up with its next round of commercials isn't so excited with its new style that it also applies it to another client.

Continue reading New Target commercial may be a bit too much like Sony's

JoystiqNew Target commercial may be a bit too much like Sony's originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Nov 2007 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>40gbcommercialsmarketingsuperfadTue, 06 Nov 2007 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[How not to advertise the PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/04/how-not-to-advertise-the-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/04/how-not-to-advertise-the-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/04/how-not-to-advertise-the-ps3/#commentsFiled under:

Fresh off the release of a couple extremely awesome commercials featuring the 40GB PS3 and a slew of other great features that make us love our PlayStation 3, we were starting to regain some of our lost confidence in the Sony hype machine. However, all that may have grinded to a halt with this bizarre commercial recently released in Europe.

Although we've always thought the European's taste in just about everything is rather odd, this commercial raises that bar to an entirely new and utterly disturbing level. However, while most Sony commercials have always retained their oddity, they haven't always been bad. Anyone remember I am the Wolfman?

[Thanks for the tip, Tom!]

JoystiqHow not to advertise the PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 04 Nov 2007 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>commercialsmarketingsony-adsvideosweirdSun, 04 Nov 2007 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony gets head in the game with new PS3 ads]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/01/sony-gets-head-in-the-game-with-new-ps3-ad-campaign/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/01/sony-gets-head-in-the-game-with-new-ps3-ad-campaign/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/01/sony-gets-head-in-the-game-with-new-ps3-ad-campaign/#commentsFiled under: ,

The word you're looking for is: FINALLY. Sony America finally gets their damn head in the game to sell some PS3s with a new ad campaign for this holiday. Sony Senior VP of Marketing and PSN Peter Dille wrote a long love letter on Sony's blog about the plan with this holiday's marketing. "Last year, we launched the PS3 with a campaign that become known as the 'White Room' and we received a strong reaction to those ads for being provocative and demonstrating the PS3's power," Dille wrote, obviously unaware of the extreme delusion in that statement. "With those technology messages now firmly embedded, we wanted to move beyond the 'power' message with a more high-energy, entertainment driven focus for the PS3. The games are here, the price point is now $399 and we wanted to make the news loud and clear."

The 30 second spot (above) focuses on the exclusive games for the console. And in a shocker for Sony, they actually show the games in the ads. After the break is the 60 second spot focusing on the PS3's features. Now we wait to see if new consumers notice the lack of backwards compatibility in their new $399 PS3.

Continue reading Sony gets head in the game with new PS3 ads

JoystiqSony gets head in the game with new PS3 ads originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 01 Nov 2007 11:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>40gbcommercialsdropmarketingprice cutps3reduceThu, 01 Nov 2007 11:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo 3's final days of marketing assault]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/21/halo-3s-final-days-of-marketing-assault/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/21/halo-3s-final-days-of-marketing-assault/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/21/halo-3s-final-days-of-marketing-assault/#commentsFiled under: ,


And we're in the final stretch as the Halo 3 marketing machine goes into overdrive and assaults the broadcast medium this weekend. Variety got the details on what Chris Di Cesare, Xbox director of product marketing, calls "magnifying the mania." Expect original programming that'll bring newbs to the Halo franchise -- and the Xbox 360 -- by focusing on networks with demographics in line with the Master Chief plan.

It starts Saturday on Comedy Central with Fully Loaded, two-minute mini-ads hosted by Mad TV's Bobby Lee, which were taped at Tao Beach nightclub following the Madame Tussauds unveiling on the weekend of the MTV Video Music Awards. Spike TV's Game Head will host a live feed Monday night, breaking in with coverage during commercial breaks, and then air a half-hour special at midnight called: Halo 3 Launched. That program will feature a performance by Linkin Park. G4 has also set five hours of time aside for the launch as well. On Tuesday, Sci Fi Channel will show Halo 3: Sci vs. Fi. Of course, we'd love to stay home and watch all this launch coverage, but we'll be too busy doing our own coverage, which mostly consists of us waiting in line like everybody else, taking photos and getting quotes.

JoystiqHalo 3's final days of marketing assault originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Sep 2007 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>commercialshalo3madametussaudsmarketingmasterchiefXbox-360Fri, 21 Sep 2007 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Daily: Nintendo Advertising System]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/13/ds-daily-nintendo-advertising-system/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/13/ds-daily-nintendo-advertising-system/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/13/ds-daily-nintendo-advertising-system/#commentsFiled under:


In honor of our weekly Promotional Consideration column, which you should be reading, we thought we'd ask about your favorite game-related commercials. We grew up bombarded by Nintendo commercials, including Zelda raps, Devo-esque cereal jingles, and ... okay, we don't remember seeing an ad for Mendel Palace. Seriously, that's a big budget for advertising Mendel Palace.

And that's just Nintendo. We can't forget the years we spent being yelled at by Sega. What about you? What is still burned into your brain?

JoystiqDS Daily: Nintendo Advertising System originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 Aug 2007 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adscommercialsmendelpalacesegaMon, 13 Aug 2007 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nicole Kidman enjoys Nintendo products*]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/25/nicole-kidman-enjoys-nintendo-products/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/25/nicole-kidman-enjoys-nintendo-products/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/25/nicole-kidman-enjoys-nintendo-products/#commentsFiled under:

Academy Award winner Nicole Kidman has joined the ranks of the brain-trained. The star of Practical Magic, Batman Forever, and Days of Thunder has agreed to become the official face of More Brain Training (well, the other official face) in a series of print and television advertisements to be shown across Europe.

"I love the concept that Nintendo is reaching out to new audiences with their self improvement products like Brain Training," Kidman said. "Most importantly, I've quickly found that training my brain is a great way to keep my mind young." Maybe now Nintendo and Brain Age will finally be able to achieve some success.

*For money.

JoystiqNicole Kidman enjoys Nintendo products* originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Jun 2007 11:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adadsagebrainbrain agebrain trainingBrainAgeBrainTrainingcommercialcommercialsdseuropekidmannicole kidmanNicoleKidmannintendonintendo dsNintendoDstrainingMon, 25 Jun 2007 11:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: pie in the face = Xbox sold in Japan?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/video-pie-in-the-face-xbox-sold-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/video-pie-in-the-face-xbox-sold-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/video-pie-in-the-face-xbox-sold-in-japan/#commentsFiled under: ,


Okay, we've seen some weird foreign Xbox ads (no, really), but this one takes the cake ... er ... pie. Apparently, a (notably attractive) woman dodging pies was meant to pique Japan's interest in the original Xbox. While we have to admit that evading the attacks of a pie-tossing machine would make for thrilling digital entertainment, we have to question the logic of using the same scenario to sell Xboxen. We can just imagine the illustrations on the whiteboard in the Microsoft marketing dungeon:

1. Hot girl
2. Pie-tossing machine
3. Slogan
4. ???
5. Profit!

So, for the record, we have Do!Do!Do!, "There's a Locust under my bed," and a pie machine. And they wonder why they can't move consoles in Japan.

[Via The Xbox Domain]

JoystiqVideo: pie in the face = Xbox sold in Japan? originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Jun 2007 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>commercialsvideoxbox commercialsXboxCommercialsTue, 19 Jun 2007 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[You got Mega Man ZX Advent commercials]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/18/you-got-mega-man-zx-advent-commercials/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/18/you-got-mega-man-zx-advent-commercials/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/18/you-got-mega-man-zx-advent-commercials/#commentsFiled under: ,

Striking while Mega Man ZX is still fresh in our minds (and our Sales posts), Capcom has two new commercials advertising the action platformer's sequel, Mega Man ZX Advent, for its Japan release this July 12th. The US version won't arrive until October, but we love to oversaturate our minds with previews and media to the point where we lose interest in a game long before it even hits store shelves. Depressing, isn't it?

If you enjoyed the anime cut-scenes that were scattered throughout Mega Man ZX, you'll be happy to see their return with these clips of Grey -- one of the two new heroes in Advent -- dodging about a jillion bullets and lasers. Jump past the post break and defeat one of the Pseudoroid bosses for the video.

Continue reading You got Mega Man ZX Advent commercials

JoystiqYou got Mega Man ZX Advent commercials originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Jun 2007 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventcapcomcommercialcommercialsmega manmega man zxmega man zx adventmega man zxaMegaManMegaManZxMegaManZxaMegaManZxAdventrock manRockManzxzxaMon, 18 Jun 2007 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[More Phantom Hourglass commercials for Japan, nothing for us]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/14/more-phantom-hourglass-commercials-for-japan-nothing-for-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/14/more-phantom-hourglass-commercials-for-japan-nothing-for-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/14/more-phantom-hourglass-commercials-for-japan-nothing-for-us/#commentsFiled under:

Whether it's shields or mini-sites, we can't seem to stop torturing ourselves with Phantom Hourglass news. We're actually physically pained by the fact that Japan will be receiving the game as early as next week; meanwhile, we're still waiting for a US release date to be announced, wallowing in self-pity with nothing but Destination Software's Chicken Shoot to look forward to. We want to chase chickens into corners, carry them over our heads, or even slash at them with a sword until a flood of poultry pour into our screens to defend their friend -- not shoot at them! We cry fowl at Chicken Shoot!

Nintendo's latest commercial for The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass depicts a young girl finding clues, taking notes, and counting Link's steps to unlock one of the game's many secrets. As you'll see past the post break, no chickens were harmed in the making of the video.

Continue reading More Phantom Hourglass commercials for Japan, nothing for us

JoystiqMore Phantom Hourglass commercials for Japan, nothing for us originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Jun 2007 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chickenchicken shootchickensChickenShootcommercialcommercialsdestination softwareDestinationSoftwaredsjapanlegend of zeldaLegendOfZeldanintendonintendo dsNintendoDsphphantom hourglassPhantomHourglassthe legend of zeldaTheLegendOfZeldatvvideozeldaThu, 14 Jun 2007 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Great moments in game ad cheese]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/11/great-moments-in-game-ad-cheese/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/11/great-moments-in-game-ad-cheese/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/11/great-moments-in-game-ad-cheese/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


We like to complain about misleading CG sequences being passed off as gameplay, but a quick pass over these Top 10 Cheesiest Classic Game Commericals confirms that we really don't have a leg to stand on in the being tricked department. Take for instance, this Pole Position ad that implies the game replicates the thrill of having God pick up your family car and transform it into four race cars which you then drive until all of you explode. It almost makes us nostalgic for an era when we could still feel that way ... or at least be fooled into believing that we would.

Also, you won't want to miss the Bezerk ad, which features a theme song so awful that, were cavemen to hear it, they would invent fire just so they could throw their sun-dried zebra skin drums into it and stop music from ever existing. But with only 10 ads here, are there any of your favorites left off the list?

JoystiqGreat moments in game ad cheese originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Jun 2007 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ataricommercialsgameadsnespowergloveyahooMon, 11 Jun 2007 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Ouendan experience]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/10/the-ouendan-experience/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/10/the-ouendan-experience/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/10/the-ouendan-experience/#commentsFiled under: ,

With only a week to go before its release in Japan, Nintendo has put up a suite of videos for Moero! Nekketsu Rhythm Damashii Osu! Tatakae! Ouendan 2. In addition to the traditional commercial spot and gameplay trailer, there are five "experience" clips showing people tapping and singing along with the rhythm title's songs.

We would post videos of our own experiences with Ouendan, but they'd consist of us sobbing in a corner as we played through "Over the Distance," a heart-rending ghost love story that calls for you to reunite a restless spirit with his grieving girlfriend for one last goodbye. We haven't cried that much since the last time we saw Grave of the Fireflies. Oh the humanity! Bring a tissue when you saunter past the post break for the melancholic scene from the original Ouendan game.

Continue reading The Ouendan experience

JoystiqThe Ouendan experience originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 May 2007 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>commercialcommercialsdepressingdsdsexperiencedsliteexperiencenintendonintendodsouendanouendan2rhythmsadtrailertrailersvideovideosThu, 10 May 2007 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Harvest Moon Crossing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/24/harvest-moon-crossing/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/24/harvest-moon-crossing/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/24/harvest-moon-crossing/#commentsFiled under:

Harvest Moon DS saw its US release over half a year ago, but the colorful farming sim didn't cross the Atlantic until earlier this month. A TV commercial advertising the game has been airing in the UK, and we were surprise to see how similar its presentation is to Nintendo's commercials for Animal Crossing: Wild World in Japan and Europe.

AC:WW was an indisputable success sales-wise in every territory, so we can see why Nintendo would want to mimic its marketing push with Harvest Moon DS. Compare the video clips yourself after the post break to see what we mean.

Continue reading Harvest Moon Crossing

JoystiqHarvest Moon Crossing originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Apr 2007 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acacwwadvertisementadvertisementsanimalcrossinganimalcrossingwildworldbritaincommercialcommercialsdseuropeharvestmoonnintendodsrisingstartvukwildworldTue, 24 Apr 2007 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Mii commercials]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/10/new-mii-commercials/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/10/new-mii-commercials/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/10/new-mii-commercials/#commentsFiled under: ,

Nintendo is preparing to roll out a new set of commercials to promote character creation with the Mii Channel. These virtual avatars have been used to create everything from mug shots to the cast of The Office. It's one of the most unique and people-friendly features of the Wii -- perfect bait to reel in the non-gaming crowd.

The commercials are appearing just in time to combat the excitement over Sony's PlayStation Home. The Mii Channel is simple, but not very powerful. PlayStation Home aims to give us full control over our avatar's appearance and even customize an apartment. And that's only the beginning. Making Miis with funny noses is fun, but are we ready for something more substantial?

Both Mii commercials will be appearing on a TV near you starting next week. You can watch the videos on YouTube or Nintendo's Mii MySpace page.

JoystiqNew Mii commercials originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 10 Mar 2007 22:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>commercialsmiinintendowiiSat, 10 Mar 2007 22:32:00 EST<![CDATA[It's time for Super Bowl commercials!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/04/its-time-for-super-bowl-commercials/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/04/its-time-for-super-bowl-commercials/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/04/its-time-for-super-bowl-commercials/#commentsFiled under:

In roughly an hour the world's most watched television broadcast will begin. Super Bowl XLI will kick off in Florida tonight with the Colts pitted against the Bears (that's American football for those of you who don't know). But why do we bring up a sports event on an Xbox 360 fansite? Well, there is a very good reason for that ... commercials! Tonight, during the game, watch for any video game related commercials. Rumor has it that Coke will be airing their GTA inspired commercial during the football game. And although not video game related, the guys over at Digg just might be in GoDaddy's commercial. Just keep your eyes peeled and feel free to discuss your favorite commercials ... let the pizza eating begin!

JoystiqIt's time for Super Bowl commercials! originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 04 Feb 2007 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cokecommercialsgrand theft autoGrandTheftAutogtasuper bowlsuper bowl xliSuperBowlSuperBowlXliSun, 04 Feb 2007 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Video Sandwich: October 30, 2006]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/30/video-sandwich-october-30-2006/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/30/video-sandwich-october-30-2006/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/30/video-sandwich-october-30-2006/#commentsFiled under: ,

Vroom, vroom! This Japanese ad for the Ape Escape racer is awesome because it's so over-the-top. Too bad the game is nowhere as sleek-looking as this commercial. At least the Japanese can pick up a free toy with the game, it appears. (Don't forget to try out the downloadable demo for yourself!)

Finally, to end our daily series of sandwiches, we have one very... special boy that knows how to handle a situation... in a special way. Anger management isn't a bad thing, kid. Unless it's that really awful Adam Sandler movie from way back when.

JoystiqVideo Sandwich: October 30, 2006 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 Oct 2006 22:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adadsangerangryape escapeape escape racerApeEscapeApeEscapeRacercommercialcommercialssandwichMon, 30 Oct 2006 22:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Video Sandwich: October 25, 2006]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/25/video-sandwich-october-25-2006/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/25/video-sandwich-october-25-2006/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/25/video-sandwich-october-25-2006/#commentsFiled under:

Ah, commercials for the PSP. America seems to have given up advertising Sony's handheld (while they get their act together), but the European division just keeps on making more and more. Some are sure to be hits, while others are not. Here are two samples from the European waters: what do you think about them? Do they seem too random, or are they super-cool and edgy?

JoystiqVideo Sandwich: October 25, 2006 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Oct 2006 23:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adadsbarberberlin wallBerlinWallcommercialcommercialshaircutsandwichWed, 25 Oct 2006 23:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Video Sandwich: October 24, 2006]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/24/video-sandwich-october-24-2006/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/24/video-sandwich-october-24-2006/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/24/video-sandwich-october-24-2006/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The PSP can be a lot of things. It can take pictures, for example. Sony Japan's newest ad shows off the upcoming PSP camera and all the fun things you can do to harass Japanese businessmen. Awesome~! I hope once the device comes to the States, all members of the press start carrying this peripheral around: photos like these will make the news so much more interesting, because everything's at least 30% funnier when a giant afro is transplanted on top of someone's head!

But once you've taken such classy photos, you'll want to show them off... with style. An enthusiastic fan has crafted an elaborate, elegant wooden frame for his PSP. Just drop the PSP in and let it display your photos. It'll look a whole lot cooler than a traditional photo frame, and it'll kill a lot less trees. And we love trees, don't we?

JoystiqVideo Sandwich: October 24, 2006 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Oct 2006 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adadscameracommercialcommercialsframephotopicturesandwichTue, 24 Oct 2006 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[All the 360 commercials ever]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/24/all-the-360-commercials-ever/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/24/all-the-360-commercials-ever/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/24/all-the-360-commercials-ever/#commentsFiled under: ,


Major Nelson has posted a list of Xbox 360 commercials that is apparently circulating in Microsoft's office mail. Most of these are pretty entertaining (such as the one above), and some are downright bizarre. We've politely lifted the list from Major Nelson and posted it after the break (along with a few more). And just to save you an extra step, we've embedded the ultra wacky Indian 360 ad as well.

Continue reading All the 360 commercials ever

JoystiqAll the 360 commercials ever originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Oct 2006 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>commercialsTue, 24 Oct 2006 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video Sandwich: October 17, 2006]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/17/video-sandwich-october-17-2006/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/17/video-sandwich-october-17-2006/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/17/video-sandwich-october-17-2006/#commentsFiled under: ,

It's been a while. It's time for another Video Sandwich. We love looking at PSP ads here, and I would have to say that this "viral" ad is pretty effective. It tells you that you can play your PSP anywhere, any place... but would the PSP function in a low-grav, no-oxygen environment? Something tells me no. MISLEADING AD!!! (Okay, maybe it's just puffery.)

Below, you'll see a fan-made parody of one of the earliest PSP ads: you know, the ones where they threw them around, from friend to friend. I was always horrified by that ad, just because I asked: what would you do if you dropped it??? That's $250 down the drain! Well, thankfully, these kids find out so you don't have to.

JoystiqVideo Sandwich: October 17, 2006 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Oct 2006 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adadsadvertisementadvertisementsastronautastronautscommercialcommercialssandwichspacethrowTue, 17 Oct 2006 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Absolutely brutal banned PSP ad]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/03/absolutely-brutal-banned-psp-ad/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/03/absolutely-brutal-banned-psp-ad/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/03/absolutely-brutal-banned-psp-ad/#commentsFiled under:


This can not be real. PSP ads have been terrible for the most part, but this takes it one step further into the "what the f--- were they thinking?" category. The video is embeeded after the cut, but I'll have a FOX-like warning for you: Due to the violent nature of this advertisement, viewer discretion is advised.

See also:
ASA rules UK PSP ads inoffensive

Continue reading Absolutely brutal banned PSP ad

JoystiqAbsolutely brutal banned PSP ad originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Oct 2006 22:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adadsadveritsementsadvertisementbeatingcommercialcommercialsjoystiqkidspainlesspspvideoviolentTue, 03 Oct 2006 22:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Real-life Katamari in Travelers Insurance ad]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/25/real-life-katamari-in-travelers-insurance-ad/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/25/real-life-katamari-in-travelers-insurance-ad/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/25/real-life-katamari-in-travelers-insurance-ad/#commentsFiled under: ,

A current Travelers Insurance TV commercial liberally borrows from Katamari Damacy, showing a ball of, well, stuff bouncing down San Francisco's hills. You could say Fallon, the ad agency behind the spot, ripped off Katamari, but we like the commercial enough to let that slide. We'll call it an homage, imitation being flattery and all.

The commercial opens with a guy -- let's call him Everyman -- walking down the sidewalk. He's on a hill in the overcast outskirts of the city, maybe in the Avenues or closer to Twin Peaks. For no apparent reason, other than eventually trying to sell insurance, he trips, and begins rolling down the street. Like Katamari, he runs into some people and boxes, picking up size until the ball eventually gets big enough to gather cars and trees.

The ball bounces through the city -- always downhill except once on even ground -- through Pacific Heights and the Fillmore, gathering motorcycles in Nob Hill, picking up a heterosexual marriage -- we have those sometimes -- in Delores Park or a similar green space, flying down California Street or an equally car-chase-laden road, and eventually crashing into a columned downtown building with a name we can't quite remember. We wish we could ride a katamari across the city; it's a record commute time.

Is it a rip-off of Katamari, and do you care if your hobby becomes a commercial? Or did Fallon just have Katamari-of-the-mind? Immersive games have changed our way of looking at the world, like if we notice a drainpipe on the outside of a building and think of climbing it, Splinter Cell-style. Carmageddon also rewired our minds for a few weeks, urging us to crash the family truckster into a van. (We restrained). And Katamari has changed the way we think about space; we often imagine rolling up our surroundings. What, you don't?

The full commercial is embedded after the break.

See also: Roddick takes on Pong in ad

[Thanks, Daniel Premo]

Continue reading Real-life Katamari in Travelers Insurance ad

JoystiqReal-life Katamari in Travelers Insurance ad originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Sep 2006 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Commercialskatamarikatamari damacyKatamariDamacysan franciscoSanFranciscotravelers insuranceTravelersInsuranceMon, 25 Sep 2006 16:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Ad shows danger of angering Tekken players]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/20/ad-shows-danger-of-angering-tekken-players/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/20/ad-shows-danger-of-angering-tekken-players/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/20/ad-shows-danger-of-angering-tekken-players/#commentsFiled under: , ,


It seems like TV viewers across the pond always get cooler commercials than we do here in the States. For instance, take Namco's ad for Tekken: Dark Resurrection on the PSP which manages to be both memorable and funny, despite having less than two seconds of gameplay footage and only two words of dialogue: "You win!"

Hopefully we can expect to see more ads like this one as Sony and Nintendo ramp up for their launch dates, and Microsoft throws something in the mix to keep up. Look for them this holiday season on a TV near you.

Other notable game commercials:
Xbox 360 "Jump In" promo wins Addy
Japanese game commercials: you watched it, you can't unwatch it
Grand Theft Auto: Coca-Cola City
PS-Peeing viral vid for Gangs of London
[Via Digg]

JoystiqAd shows danger of angering Tekken players originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Sep 2006 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingcommercialsMarketingNamcoPSPTekkenWed, 20 Sep 2006 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PS-Peeing viral vid for Gangs of London [update 2]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/05/ps-peeing-viral-vid-for-gangs-of-london/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/05/ps-peeing-viral-vid-for-gangs-of-london/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/05/ps-peeing-viral-vid-for-gangs-of-london/#commentsFiled under: ,


Nintendo's not the only Japanese gaming company making tinkle jokes. Sony's latest "viral video" for Gangs of London, their upcoming crime-themed, action game (with turn-based strategy game mode, watch out GTA), decides to up the ante and do what Nintendo can only allude to (it's like, they didn't even spell it right, y'know?). Yup, that's a fella peeing on a car.

But that's not it, there's plenty more peeing to be seen which is why, in addition to saying that this is probably NSFW, we'd also highly discourage anyone who might not be able to step out for the requisite bathroom break this clip inspires. That sound, it's like yawning. It's contagious.

[Update: Embedded video got pulled by YouTube gremlins, so we've tracked down another one and embedded it after the break. Get it while it's hot ... err, rather ... we've also clarified gameplay style. For more, check out this hands-on.]

Continue reading PS-Peeing viral vid for Gangs of London [update 2]

JoystiqPS-Peeing viral vid for Gangs of London [update 2] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Sep 2006 11:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CommercialsGangs of LondonGangsOfLondonPSPViralViral videosViralVideosTue, 05 Sep 2006 11:25:00 EST<![CDATA[A strange French PS2 ad hits the web for July]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/07/10/new-deranged-ps2-ad-for-july/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/07/10/new-deranged-ps2-ad-for-july/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/07/10/new-deranged-ps2-ad-for-july/#commentsFiled under: , ,


You have to hand it to Sony. They're not afraid to try anything with their advertising. The above (NSFW) clip was produced by the French ad agency, TBWA-Paris, for the PlayStation France online gallery (Artcade). Though the ad may never see the television light of day, maybe the bald dude at the end is used to pay tribute to Zinedine "Headbutt" Zidane.

"It freaks me out, baby! Yeah..."

[Thanks, Franck; via Artcade]

JoystiqA strange French PS2 ad hits the web for July originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Jul 2006 10:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AdsAdvertisingCommercialsMarketingPS2SonySony adsSonyAdsTBWAMon, 10 Jul 2006 10:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Japanese game commercials: you watched it, you can't unwatch it]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/16/japanese-game-commercials-you-watched-it-you-cant-unwatch-it/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/16/japanese-game-commercials-you-watched-it-you-cant-unwatch-it/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/16/japanese-game-commercials-you-watched-it-you-cant-unwatch-it/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Over at the wonderfully named Bits & Bytes & Pixels & Sprites, a set of Japanese video game commercials has been assembled for your entertainment and inevitable, irreparable and incredible psychological breakdown. Repeat viewing is not advised, though we suspect that for several of you, the lure of seeing grown men dressed as enormous microphones or Segata Sanshiro hurling human missiles about will be too great to resist. It certainly was for us.

Our favorite commercial, one filled with painful foreign stereotypes and truly unnerving facial expressions, is embedded in the second part of the post.

[Thanks Dan!]

Continue reading Japanese game commercials: you watched it, you can't unwatch it

JoystiqJapanese game commercials: you watched it, you can't unwatch it originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Jun 2006 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CommercialsDance Dance RevolutionDanceDanceRevolutionDSJapaneseMario Kart DSMarioKartDsPS2Segata SanshiroSegataSanshiroFri, 16 Jun 2006 17:00:00 EST