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[Blizzard explains why it's hiring for console Diablo, but not making console Diablo]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/blizzard-explains-why-its-hiring-for-console-diablo-but-not-ma/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/blizzard-explains-why-its-hiring-for-console-diablo-but-not-ma/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/blizzard-explains-why-its-hiring-for-console-diablo-but-not-ma/#comments The situation around the potential console release of Diablo 3 has been strangely half-secret. Blizzard has openly hired for console development, and company representatives have said that they are "investigating" and "exploring" console Diablo projects. They've talked about console controllers and their advantages. But it never got to the point of actually announcing anything.

"Yeah. We haven't officially announced it, because we're not 'experimenting,'" Diablo 3 director Jay Wilson told Gamasutra. "We tell people that basically we're experimenting, because it helps us hire people. The better people we hire, the better chance we have to actually make it."

In other words, there's no concrete plan, but Blizzard is bringing in people to try things to see if they will work - which, yes, sounds a lot like experimenting. "That's why we haven't kept it super secret, but we also haven't confirmed it, because we're not sure yet whether we think it will work, and whether we think we have the resources to do it," Wilson said.

This bit comes at the end of a lengthy interview, during which Wilson also provides a lot of background on the development process - like how a PowerPoint presentation substituted for a design document.

JoystiqBlizzard explains why it's hiring for console Diablo, but not making console Diablo originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 May 2012 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardconsoleDiablo-3jay-wilsonmacpcMon, 14 May 2012 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Sons of Anarchy getting a 'real' console title, rather than browser-based multiplayer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/sons-of-anarchy-getting-a-real-console-title-rather-than-brow/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/sons-of-anarchy-getting-a-real-console-title-rather-than-brow/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/sons-of-anarchy-getting-a-real-console-title-rather-than-brow/#comments ImageKurt Sutter, the creator of the FX TV series, Sons of Anarchy, said a little while back there was a game in progress, based on the series' rowdy biker family exploits. It was set to be "a high-end browser-based" title, but a recent tweet from Sutter says that's all changed. Instead, FX and Fox have agreed to "do a REAL game. Console based. Not some slapcrap browser [multiplayer] thing," according to Sutter. He admits it'll take a long time to put together, but since the browser game "felt rushed and unsatisfying," he wants the property treated right.

That's good news for Sons of Anarchy fans ready for a full console experience based on their show. As for us, as long as Ron Perlman's Clay Morrow is playable somehow, we're happy with whatever SAMCRO-based experience we can get.

JoystiqSons of Anarchy getting a 'real' console title, rather than browser-based multiplayer originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 May 2012 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consolefoxfxken-sutterlicensedmicrosoftplaystationps3sons-of-anarchytvxboxFri, 11 May 2012 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live Beacons and other new social features incoming to Xbox.com]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/08/xbox-live-beacons-and-other-new-social-features-incoming-to-xbox/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/08/xbox-live-beacons-and-other-new-social-features-incoming-to-xbox/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/08/xbox-live-beacons-and-other-new-social-features-incoming-to-xbox/#comments Microsoft has posted that the Xbox.com website is getting an update "in the coming days" that will remove the "My Xbox" frontpage currently there now, and replace it with a "Social" section to make use of the "Beacons" feature eventually making its way to the console. Beacons are a way to mark which games you're currently playing or want to play, and are supposed to encourage you and your friends to set up times to play together on Xbox Live. Players will be able to set up three Beacons at a time, and add an additional comment as well, like "between 7-9pm PST" or "Horde mode only."

The website update will also make use of the "Metro" setup coming to the console's dashboard, and of course allow for access to the usual Xbox.com actions like redeeming codes, messaging friends and checking out their profiles, or browsing for and purchasing Xbox Live titles.

Officially, the console's Dashboard Update is still scheduled for a "Holiday 2011" release, though previous reports have placed it sometime right around Thanksgiving. With this update coming to the website as soon as next week, however, it's a good bet the console update is also close at hand.

[Thanks, Liam!]

Gallery: Xbox.com (Social and Video Section Enhancements)

JoystiqXbox Live Beacons and other new social features incoming to Xbox.com originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 Nov 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beaconsconsoledashboard-updatefriendskinectmicrosoftsocialupdatexblxboxxbox-livexbox-live-beaconsTue, 08 Nov 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Blizzard talks console controls for Diablo 3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/22/blizzard-talks-console-controls-for-diablo-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/22/blizzard-talks-console-controls-for-diablo-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/22/blizzard-talks-console-controls-for-diablo-3/#comments Blizzard's Diablo 3 developers are on the main stage at BlizzCon 2011 right now, and game director Jay Wilson spoke a little bit about the potential console version of the game. Nothing has changed -- there is no officially announced console version. But Wilson did confirm that Blizzard has hired a team to work on it, and that the company has been iterating on console controls.

"The movement actually feels better on the controller," Wilson said, in response to a fan's question. "Targeting is the issue." Most of the schemes the team has come up for choosing what to attack and loot require a reticule, "which we really don't want to do," Wilson said. "Monster distribution and AI also feels a little bit different than it does on the PC version."

And Blizzard won't even say that there's a console version coming "because we don't want to announce something until we're sure." Obviously the team is working on it, and obviously Diablo 3 on a console would be extremely popular -- the first game did officially come to the original PlayStation all those years ago. But as Wilson says, the team wants to assure that "if it goes on a console, it doesn't compromise the PC game in any way, and it feels like it was built for the console."

JoystiqBlizzard talks console controls for Diablo 3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 22 Oct 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardblizzard-entertainmentconsolecontrolsDiablo-3jay-wilsonpcSat, 22 Oct 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Toys R' Us offering 320GB PS3 for $249]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/15/toys-r-us-offering-320gb-ps3-for-249/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/15/toys-r-us-offering-320gb-ps3-for-249/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/15/toys-r-us-offering-320gb-ps3-for-249/#comments Toys R' Us has quite the appealing offer for folks looking for a gaming console with an obscene amount of hard drive space. For an undisclosed amount of time, the 320GB PS3 is marked down to $249.99 at the giraffe-branded retailer.

Continue reading Toys R' Us offering 320GB PS3 for $249

JoystiqToys R' Us offering 320GB PS3 for $249 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 17:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consolehardwareplaystationps3sonytoys-r-usThu, 15 Sep 2011 17:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: UK PS3 sales spike after price drop]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/22/report-uk-ps3-sales-spike-after-price-drop/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/22/report-uk-ps3-sales-spike-after-price-drop/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/22/report-uk-ps3-sales-spike-after-price-drop/#comments PS3 price drop Proving once again that making something less expensive prompts more people to buy said thing, MCV is reporting that UK sales of the PlayStation 3 have spiked in the wake of its recent price drop. MCV doesn't offer specific numbers, though a source claimed that sales of the console have risen sixty-five percent in the last week.

With the game industry's holiday season set to kick into gear over the next two months, it seems likely that sales will continue to grow. Oh, and a quick note for all the new PS3 owners out there. Have you guys heard about this Uncharted thing? It's pretty slick.

JoystiqReport: UK PS3 sales spike after price drop originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 22 Aug 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consoleplaystationps3salesukMon, 22 Aug 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gears of War limited edition Xbox 360 bundle on Sept. 20 for $399; controller for $59.99 on August 11]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/06/gears-of-war-limited-edition-xbox-360-bundle-on-sept-20-for-39/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/06/gears-of-war-limited-edition-xbox-360-bundle-on-sept-20-for-39/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/06/gears-of-war-limited-edition-xbox-360-bundle-on-sept-20-for-39/#comments Sure, you've seen the footage on Gears of War 3, but without an Xbox 360, how are you going to gunsaw dudebeasts in half? Well, with a limited edition branded console, of course! Epic and Microsoft are teaming up to offer not only a special console bundle pack, but also custom, individual controllers -- both of which will be accompanied by download tokens for in-game content.

For $399, you can snag the console bundle (which has special sound effects like the Halo: Reach console), which features a 320gb hard drive, two Gears of War 3-branded wireless controllers, a copy of the game, headset and two pieces of DLC: the Infected Omen Weapon pack, skins for the game's starting weapons (the Lancer, Retro Lancer, Gnasher, Hammerburst and Sawed-Off Shotgun) and the Adam Fenix multiplayer character. This bundle goes on sale September 20.

If you're looking for just a special controller, you can snag one of them for $59.99 starting on August 11 -- which has that new transforming d-pad and the aforementioned in-game content. Hit the gallery below for some shots of the new hardware, conveniently posed up against a red wall. So much red!

Gallery: Gears of War 3 Limited Edition console/controller

JoystiqGears of War limited edition Xbox 360 bundle on Sept. 20 for $399; controller for $59.99 on August 11 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 Jun 2011 23:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consolee3e3-2011epicGears-of-War-3gears-of-war-3-consolegears-of-war-3-limited-edition-consolelimited-edition-consolemicrosoftmicrosoft-game-studiosxboxxbox-360-sMon, 06 Jun 2011 23:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Deus Ex: Human Revolution coming to OnLive, free MicroConsole and original Deus Ex with pre-order]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/19/deus-ex-human-revolution-coming-to-onlive-free-microconsole-an/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/19/deus-ex-human-revolution-coming-to-onlive-free-microconsole-an/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/19/deus-ex-human-revolution-coming-to-onlive-free-microconsole-an/#comments OnLive has announced that the service will be offering the upcoming Deus Ex: Human Revolution as a streaming title day-and-date with the retail release, and users who pre-order the game will get all kinds of goodies. First, ponying up cash in advance for any flavor of the game will net a free copy of the original Deus Ex: Game of the Year for play via the service.

Secondly, pre-ordering the Augmented Edition of the game (for $53.99 rather than the standard $44.99, and packing its own goodies) will get you an OnLive game system to play it on, free of charge. If you already have a MicroConsole, you can choose a free game. That's not a bad deal at all, especially if you were considering getting Human Revolution in the first place.

The free game deal has to be redeemed by next Wednesday, May 25, but according to the fine print, the console deal is valid right up until Deus Ex: Human Revolution's release on August 23.

JoystiqDeus Ex: Human Revolution coming to OnLive, free MicroConsole and original Deus Ex with pre-order originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 May 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>augmented-editioncloud-gamingconsoledealdeus-exdeus-ex-human-revolutiongame-streamingmaconliveonlive-microconsolepcpreorderThu, 19 May 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Reggie: Nintendo's next home console unlikely to feature 3D]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/29/reggie-nintendos-next-home-console-unlikely-to-feature-3d/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/29/reggie-nintendos-next-home-console-unlikely-to-feature-3d/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/29/reggie-nintendos-next-home-console-unlikely-to-feature-3d/#comments Nintendo believes strongly in glasses-free 3D. The company wouldn't be able to achieve this feat on a home console, short of shipping an innovative TV in the box, so ... it's probably not going to do that.

"I think at Nintendo, we realize that any sort of goggle-type 3D technology was not going to work," 3DS hardware producer Hideki Konno told CNN. "In order to make 3D technology viable with video games, we thought we needed to have glasses-free 3D." Konno and his team at Nintendo did experiment with a 3D display tethered to a Wii before development of the 3DS began, but purely as a proof-of-concept for glasses-free 3D.

Echoing Konno's remarls, Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aime told CNN, "Glasses-free is a big deal. We've not said publicly what the next thing for us will be in the home console space, but based on what we've learned on 3D, likely, that won't be it." It probably won't be 4D either -- that's been done.

JoystiqReggie: Nintendo's next home console unlikely to feature 3D originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 Mar 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d3dsconsolehardwarehideki-konnonintendoreggie-fils-aimewiiwii-2Tue, 29 Mar 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 plus Atari 2600 equals Ben Heck's latest mod (also 2,960)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/22/xbox-360-plus-atari-2600-equals-ben-hecks-latest-mod-also-2-96/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/22/xbox-360-plus-atari-2600-equals-ben-hecks-latest-mod-also-2-96/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/22/xbox-360-plus-atari-2600-equals-ben-hecks-latest-mod-also-2-96/#comments While not his most practical modification to date, Ben Heck has created one of his most unique consoles yet. Check out Heck's Frankensteinian mash-up of the Xbox 360 and Atari 2600 in the hefty, 23-minute-long video posted here.

Continue reading Xbox 360 plus Atari 2600 equals Ben Heck's latest mod (also 2,960)

JoystiqXbox 360 plus Atari 2600 equals Ben Heck's latest mod (also 2,960) originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 Mar 2011 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atari-2600ben-heckconsolehackmicrosoftmodthe-ben-heck-showxboxTue, 22 Mar 2011 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[160GB PS3 with Killzone 3 bundle coming Feb. 22 for $300]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/160gb-ps3-with-killzone-3-bundle-coming-feb-22-for-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/160gb-ps3-with-killzone-3-bundle-coming-feb-22-for-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/160gb-ps3-with-killzone-3-bundle-coming-feb-22-for-3/#comments Sony is hoping you'll find its latest hardware bundle a killer deal. It's at least a Killzone deal -- the $300 package includes a 160GB PS3 console and a copy of its latest sci-fi FPS, Killzone 3. Considering that this PS3 model usually costs the same price by itself, it's technically a $60 savings. Y'know, if you don't have a PS3 and want Guerilla Games' new shooter.

If you're in that camp, visit your store of choice on February 22 -- the same day Killzone 3 hits shelves -- since that's when the pack goes on sale.

Joystiq160GB PS3 with Killzone 3 bundle coming Feb. 22 for $300 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Feb 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bundleconsoleguerilla-gameshardwareKillzone-3playstationps3release-datesceasonyTue, 15 Feb 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[China's Kinect-like eBox console launch delayed for 'improvements']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/18/chinas-kinect-like-ebox-console-launch-delayed-for-improvement/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/18/chinas-kinect-like-ebox-console-launch-delayed-for-improvement/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/18/chinas-kinect-like-ebox-console-launch-delayed-for-improvement/#comments PC maker Lenovo had planned to launch its China-exclusive eBox games console this month, but has decided to delay its release until sometime after February, a report by ITworld says. The hardware, which is said to have integrated motion-tracking technology similar to Microsoft's Kinect, is being held back for "improvements," according to the article.

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chinaconsoledelayeboxhardwarekinectLenovoTue, 18 Jan 2011 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Witcher 2 questing on consoles now in question... apparently always was]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/20/witcher-2-questing-on-consoles-now-in-question/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/20/witcher-2-questing-on-consoles-now-in-question/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/20/witcher-2-questing-on-consoles-now-in-question/#comments The Witcher 2 has apparently been downgraded to a "potential" console release. Speaking with Eurogamer, senior producer Tomasz Gop said any "potential console release" wouldn't join the PC launch next March. Regarding the status of the console version, the representative merely offered a "no comment."

Following up with company spokesman Tom Ohle, he informed Joystiq: "We never did confirm a console release of [The Witcher 2]. The situation is still that we do want to bring the Witcher franchise to console gamers at some point, and we've buit an engine capable of console development... but have made no formal announcements of plans for a console release."

Although the game is looking mighty fancy on PC, we've yet to see The Witcher 2 running on any console. CD Projekt originally planned for the first Witcher to make its way to consoles, too, though that project was canceled reportedly due to financial issues.

JoystiqWitcher 2 questing on consoles now in question... apparently always was originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Oct 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cd-projektconsoledelaysmicrosoftpcplaystationps3the-witcher-2xboxWed, 20 Oct 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE to show a PS3 version of Free Realms at E3 2010]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/30/soe-to-show-a-ps3-version-of-free-realms-at-e3-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/30/soe-to-show-a-ps3-version-of-free-realms-at-e3-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/30/soe-to-show-a-ps3-version-of-free-realms-at-e3-2010/#comments Ah, the console MMO. This elusive beast is often rumored, but rarely spotted in the wild -- lots of developers want the widespread crowd (and subscription fees) that a successful MMO brings, but have trouble adapting PC-centric gameplay to the stick-and-buttons console audience. Sony Online Entertainment is the next contender, apparently, as it has announced plans to show off a console version of the popular free-to-play MMO Free Realms at E3 this year.

The game just hit its first birthday, and has boasted over 10 million players already doing everything from the standard fantasy combat to an in-game trading card game to ... kart racing. As its title suggest, it's free-to-play on PC, with extra features available for a subscription price. SOE says the title is "very much in development," and we'll have to see at E3 if it can hunt down one of the gaming industry's rarest catches.

[Via Massively]

JoystiqSOE to show a PS3 version of Free Realms at E3 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 Apr 2010 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consoleconsole-mmodemoe3e3-2010free-realmspcsonysony-online-entertainmentFri, 30 Apr 2010 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[One million Xbox 360s sold down under]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/21/one-million-xbox-360s-sold-down-under/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/21/one-million-xbox-360s-sold-down-under/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/21/one-million-xbox-360s-sold-down-under/#commentsMicrosoft's Australian site has announced that one million Xbox 360s have been sold in Australia and New Zealand so far. Japan hit that landmark only last year, and about eight million consoles have been sold in North America so far, according to the most recent estimates. Congrats, Aussies and, erm, Newzies!

To celebrate, Microsoft will be auctioning off a few special edition consoles through Konsoles for Kids with awkwardly-painted portraits of Australian celebrities on them, including Russell Crowe, comedy duo Hamish and Andy, and ... Kim Kardashian? We guess they're not all Australian then. What's the deal, Microsoft? Was Andrew Denton too busy? What if we want a console with Yahoo Serious painted on the side?

[Via VG247]

JoystiqOne million Xbox 360s sold down under originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Apr 2010 01:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiaconsolekonsoles-for-kidsmicrosoftnew-zealandone-millionsalesXbox-360Wed, 21 Apr 2010 01:30:00 EST<![CDATA[2K Marin: Console wars 'drown out creative discourse']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/2k-marin-console-wars-drown-out-creative-discourse/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/2k-marin-console-wars-drown-out-creative-discourse/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/2k-marin-console-wars-drown-out-creative-discourse/#comments The initially Xbox 360-exclusive BioShock was one of the major salvos in the ongoing console wars, waged on message boards and comment sections everywhere (including right here on this very site). Speaking with Destructoid, BioShock 2 producer Jordan Thomas expressed hope that the multi-platform sequel -- which launches today -- doesn't play a similarly divisive role. According to Thomas, "platform partisanship" is just silly and it "seems to flood the critical channels and drown out other creative discourse."

Which sounds about right -- whenever a piece of news comes up that swings even close to the differences between the various consoles, the discussion usually degenerates into the same old arguments, and new and more interesting issues get drowned out like Andrew Ryan's old city. 2K Marin didn't ask in so many words, but we will: Would you kindly all just get along?

Joystiq2K Marin: Console wars 'drown out creative discourse' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-marinbioshockbioshock-2commentsconsoleconsole-warsfightinginsultsjordan-thomasmessage-boardsplatform-partisanshipsdfsequelsony-defense-forcexboxTue, 09 Feb 2010 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Blueside's 'Project T' MMO also in development for Xbox 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/27/bluesides-project-t-mmo-also-in-development-for-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/27/bluesides-project-t-mmo-also-in-development-for-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/27/bluesides-project-t-mmo-also-in-development-for-xbox-360/#comments We'd heard before that Korean developer Blueside (of Ninety-Nine Nights and Kingdom Under Fire) was working on a sekrit massively multiplayer game called Project T for the PC, but now we've learned that it's also planning to release the game on the Xbox 360. A Korean job listing for the company says that the MMORPG is in development for both platforms, and asks for game programming skills of all kinds, including experience working on commercial MMOs.

The game is supposed to be an "action RPG," so it actually sounds like a pretty good fit to try for the more action-friendly console world. The job listing specifies a contract time of one year (though that seems pretty boilerplate in these situations), and the MMO was last scheduled for a release sometime in 2011. The company's also working on some MMO-style gameplay for its upcoming Kingdom Under Fire II.

JoystiqBlueside's 'Project T' MMO also in development for Xbox 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Jan 2010 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbluesideconsoleexperiencejob-listingkingdom-under-firekingdom-under-fire-2koreakoreanmassively-multiplayerMicrosoftmmoninety-nine-nightsxbox-360Wed, 27 Jan 2010 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Console life cycles grow as big three share the market]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/11/report-console-life-cycles-grow-as-big-three-share-the-market/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/11/report-console-life-cycles-grow-as-big-three-share-the-market/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/11/report-console-life-cycles-grow-as-big-three-share-the-market/#commentsFiled under:

We've heard from a few non-Microsoft sources that the Xbox 360 is heading for an extremely long console cycle, but last week's CES found Microsoft saying exactly that. David Hufford of Xbox product management mentioned during a briefing that the 360 is "the console of the long future for us," and that he doesn't yet know "if we're at the midpoint" of the console's timeline. Which sounds pretty amazing, since the console actually released in 2005, but the numbers support that theory, with adoption only recently passing the rates of the last generation.

In other words, the mad dash from 8- to 16- to 32- to 64-bit and beyond gaming has apparently relaxed for the moment, and Jack Schofield of The Guardian says it's because all three major companies at the moment (Microsoft, Sony and Nintendo) have all achieved a viable place in the market. Without feeling constant pressure to outdo each other, the major console companies can settle into their own niches and expand their own markets. Which, as Hufford said at CES, is exactly what Microsoft is planning to do in the coming "Natal era."

JoystiqReport: Console life cycles grow as big three share the market originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Jan 2010 20:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analysisbriefingcesconsoleconsole-cycledavid-huffordguardianjack-schofieldmicrosoftmidpointnumbersthe-guardiantheorytimelinexbox-360Mon, 11 Jan 2010 20:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Capcom: Wii is 'a tough market to crack']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/08/capcom-wii-is-a-tough-market-to-crack/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/08/capcom-wii-is-a-tough-market-to-crack/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/08/capcom-wii-is-a-tough-market-to-crack/#commentsFiled under:

Capcom spoke to Gamasutra recently about the difficulty in taking advantage of the Wii's huge user base -- it and other third-party developers have struggled for a long time to sell games to the casual folks who bought Nintendo's console, and Capcom's senior director of communications Chris Kramer says it hasn't gotten any easier. "If you're not Nintendo," he says frankly, "it does seem harder to make money on the Wii today compared to the PS3 and the Xbox 360."

So what's the solution? Fewer titles, higher quality. Kramer promises that Capcom will release fewer titles on the Wii in 2010, and that the few that do hit store shelves "will be much larger, event-size games." And he expects that other major developers will follow suit: You'll see "fewer games from the major third parties, like EA, Activision, and Ubisoft." If third parties don't see sales on the console, says Kramer, they'll stop developing for it.

JoystiqCapcom: Wii is 'a tough market to crack' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Jan 2010 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomconsolefeaturefewer-but-bettergamasutraNintendoreleasesthird-partythird-party-developertitlesWiizach-and-wikiFri, 08 Jan 2010 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Blizzard to return to console development 'at some point']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/21/blizzard-to-return-to-console-development-at-some-point/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/21/blizzard-to-return-to-console-development-at-some-point/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/21/blizzard-to-return-to-console-development-at-some-point/#comments Speaking to Gamasutra, Blizzard's J. Allen Brack said the company will "definitely" return to console game development ... "at some point." Brack dismissed criticism that Blizzard is "anti-console," assuring that the developer simply wants to make "the right game for the right platform." He elaborated that StarCraft II will be "a better game" on PC than it would on consoles -- something StarCraft 64 players can probably attest to.

Still, Brack noted that Blizzard is "a company of gamers." "We will definitely work on a console game at some point. I have no doubt about that." This is a statement we've heard from Blizzard before, previously from COO Paul Sams and specifically in regard to Diablo III. Of all the known games coming down the pipe from the studio, Diablo III certainly seems to fit the console mold the closest.

Then again, StarCraft: Ghost was never officially canceled, right? Right?!

[Via The Escapist]

JoystiqBlizzard to return to console development 'at some point' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 Dec 2009 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activision-blizzardblizzardconsolediablo-3j-allenstarcraftstarcraft-2Mon, 21 Dec 2009 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: 250GB PS3 available now]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/03/psa-250gb-ps3-available-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/03/psa-250gb-ps3-available-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/03/psa-250gb-ps3-available-now/#comments Just a quick reminder to let everyone know that the 250GB PlayStation 3 is available now in North America. The package runs $349 and crams a console, 250GB hard drive, controller and composite AV cables into the box. As the more astute readers have no doubt realized, the only thing different from the 120GB model is the 250GB hard drive. Still, as Gaming Bits points out, that's more than twice the storage for an extra $50 over the $299 model.

Of course, with Black Friday sales just a few weeks away, you might consider waiting to see what deals will be available before taking the plunge.

JoystiqPSA: 250GB PS3 available now originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>250gbconsoleplaystation-3ps3ps3-slimsonyTue, 03 Nov 2009 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[DUST 514 details revealed, gameplay intertwines with EVE Online]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/28/dust-514-details-revealed-gameplay-intertwines-with-eve-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/28/dust-514-details-revealed-gameplay-intertwines-with-eve-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/28/dust-514-details-revealed-gameplay-intertwines-with-eve-online/#comments
A recent interview from German gaming blog Gamona with CCP Games CEO Hilmar Pétursson is likely going to turn a few heads in the MMO gaming realm -- it reveals a few savory details about the recently revealed spin-off of EVE Online, titled DUST 514. It sounds like they're trying something groundbreaking with this new title -- it'll be a console MMOFPS with real-time strategy elements, in which mercenary players take job contracts from EVE Online players.

Considering the constant power struggle between EVE's player alliances (that's space-talk for "guilds"), there'll be no shortage of odd jobs available for DUST 514's hired guns. For more information on how these two games will interact, you can check out the full video interview after the jump.

Continue reading DUST 514 details revealed, gameplay intertwines with EVE Online

JoystiqDUST 514 details revealed, gameplay intertwines with EVE Online originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 28 Aug 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccp-gamesconsoledust-514eve-onlinemmommofpsmmorpgpcrtsFri, 28 Aug 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Activision vs. EA: Quarterly console performance of gaming's publishing giants]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/07/activision-vs-ea-quarterly-console-performance-of-gamings-pub/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/07/activision-vs-ea-quarterly-console-performance-of-gamings-pub/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/07/activision-vs-ea-quarterly-console-performance-of-gamings-pub/#comments
Alongside the release of their financial data for the quarter ending June 30, Activision and EA have also released detailed breakdowns of the revenue generated from their titles on each of the major consoles. Taking a look at the numbers tells an interesting story about each publisher. The bulk of EA's non-GAAP revenues come from the Wii, which generated $184 million for the company. The Xbox 360 takes the second spot at $136 million, followed by the PS3 at $99 million.

Meanwhile, Activision's portfolio was much more dependent on the Xbox 360 and PS3, both garnering non-GAAP revenues of $140 million and $104 million, respectively. The Wii, in stark contrast to EA, only generated $74 million for Activision. It's important to note that companies calculate non-GAAP numbers in different ways, but they are useful in judging the financial proportions of each console.

Joystiq reached out to EEDAR's Jesse Divnich for his thoughts on the results for each company. Find them after the break.

Continue reading Activision vs. EA: Quarterly console performance of gaming's publishing giants

JoystiqActivision vs. EA: Quarterly console performance of gaming's publishing giants originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 07 Aug 2009 18:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionbusinesscomparisonconsoleeaelectronic-artssalesFri, 07 Aug 2009 18:25:00 EST<![CDATA[EA: We would like to see console price cuts this year]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/05/ea-we-would-like-to-see-console-price-cuts-this-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/05/ea-we-would-like-to-see-console-price-cuts-this-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/05/ea-we-would-like-to-see-console-price-cuts-this-year/#comments
John Riccitiello is well-known as a man accustomed to living on the edge. His opinions, often controversial and polarizing, frequently tear rifts between factions of the gaming community. We imagine his latest outburst will be no different -- during EA's Q1 conference call, the polemical CEO said, "We think pricing will move hardware," and added, "We anticipate price cuts at some point and we'd like to see them later in the year."

Sure, this may seem like the popular opinion right now, but there's plenty of folks who hold opposing beliefs. Like us -- we wouldn't mind seeing a universal increase in the price of consoles. You know, to keep the proles out.

JoystiqEA: We would like to see console price cuts this year originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Aug 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consoleeaElectronic-Artsjohn-riccitielloMicrosoftNintendoprice-cutsaleWiiXbox-360Wed, 05 Aug 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: 80GB PS3 to be discontinued in Japan, parts ordered for new Sony consoles]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/04/rumor-80gb-ps3-to-be-discontinued-in-japan-parts-ordered-for-n/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/04/rumor-80gb-ps3-to-be-discontinued-in-japan-parts-ordered-for-n/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/04/rumor-80gb-ps3-to-be-discontinued-in-japan-parts-ordered-for-n/#comments
We've got a bunch more kindling for the ever-burning PS3 Slim rumor today, so try and keep up. First and foremost, Kotaku recently uncovered a document from a 7-Eleven in Japan (where 7-Elevens are apparently respected games dealers), which asks that stores stop taking pre-orders for 80GB PS3s as of August 9 -- at the behest of Sony. If legit, this move could be the start of the 80GB's mass exodus, as foretold by the Ars Technica mole in the "Great PS3 Slim Prophecy of 2009."

Other rumors come to us in the form of a Telegraph report, which rounds up a number of potential signs pointing to the svelte system's existence; one of which is an excerpt from a DigiTimes article that states Sony has "ordered enough parts to make one million consoles in the third quarter of this year," which is twice as much as was ordered in the past three months. Are these parts being used to make Slims? PSP Gos? A weaponized mech suit for Kaz Hirai?

From there, Telegraph drops a bunch of unsourced details which should be taken with a sizable grain of apprehensive salt. First, the outlet claims a PS3 Slim announcement "could come later this month" during the GamesCom convention in Cologne, with the actual console appearing by the holidays. According to Telegraph, the console "is expected to" come in two flavors -- 40GB and 80GB -- and will include two unnamed games. Best of all, it will supposedly have a lower price point than current models. Ah, now they're playing our tune.

JoystiqRumor: 80GB PS3 to be discontinued in Japan, parts ordered for new Sony consoles originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 Aug 2009 10:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7-eleven80gbconsolehardwareps3-slimrumorTue, 04 Aug 2009 10:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Current console adoption rate only now passing last cycle's, Pachter reports]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/01/current-console-adoption-rate-only-now-passing-last-cycles-pac/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/01/current-console-adoption-rate-only-now-passing-last-cycles-pac/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/01/current-console-adoption-rate-only-now-passing-last-cycles-pac/#comments Among the many fascinating (and not so fascinating) takeaways from Wedbush Morgan analyst Michael Pachter's recent and massive industry report are revelations about the current console adoption rate. As much as the Wii has seemingly penetrated previously untapped demographics (see grandma's now defunct bridge club) and ostensibly raised console adoption rates to new highs, the current generation is practically dead even with the last one when comparing the two generation's first four calendar years on the market. That is, from 2005 (when Xbox 360 launched in late November) through 2008, the current generation of consoles (Wii, PS3 and 360) combined for approximately 78 million unit sales, according to Wedbush Morgan estimates. Comparatively, from 2000 (the year PS2 launched) through 2003, the previous generation (GameCube, PS2 and Xbox) combined for 78-79 million unit sales. However, in this pivotal fifth year, Wedbush Morgan predicts the current adoption rate will begin to pull ahead of the previous rate.

Continue reading Current console adoption rate only now passing last cycle's, Pachter reports

JoystiqCurrent console adoption rate only now passing last cycle's, Pachter reports originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analystconsolemichael-pachterMicrosoftNintendosaleswedbush-morganWiiXbox-360Wed, 01 Jul 2009 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Ars Technica Mole foretells PS3 and 360 price drops in fall]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/26/rumor-ars-technica-mole-foretells-ps3-and-360-price-drop-in-fal/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/26/rumor-ars-technica-mole-foretells-ps3-and-360-price-drop-in-fal/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/26/rumor-ars-technica-mole-foretells-ps3-and-360-price-drop-in-fal/#comments
Yes, we know -- another console price drop story. Our contempt rivals your own, we assure you. However, this time around, the report comes from a source that's proven to be eerily accurate on hardware announcements in the past -- Ars Technica's unnamed "mole," a prophetic figure who managed to predict the capabilities of the PSP Go, the release of the red Resident Evil 5 Xbox 360 bundle and, most notably, last fall's universal 360 price cut.

On the Sony front, the mole is claiming that the 80GB PS3 will become scarce over the next two months, being mostly replaced by the 160GB model. As the larger model continues to sell into the fall, Sony will supposedly simultaneously announce the oft-rumored PS3 Slim and the even more oft-rumored price cut. The mole was unable to discern the exact amount that would be shaved off the price of the console, but was confident it would provide Sony with a much-needed sales boost.

For Microsoft, the mole expects the Pro system to be ushered off store shelves with the help of a few attractive Pro bundles which will crop up over the next few months. The Pro will be replaced by the 120GB Elite, which will supposedly undergo a price cut in September, followed by the release of its own bundles in October. With downloadable titles becoming a focus for both companies, turning the spotlight on consoles with larger hard drives makes sense -- but only time will tell if the Ars mole's sterling predictive reputation will persevere.

JoystiqRumor: Ars Technica Mole foretells PS3 and 360 price drops in fall originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Jun 2009 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ars-technicaconsoleeliteMicrosoftmoleprice-cutprops3-slimrumorXbox-360Fri, 26 Jun 2009 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Blizzard still hesitant about console MMOs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/25/blizzard-still-hesitant-about-console-mmos/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/25/blizzard-still-hesitant-about-console-mmos/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/25/blizzard-still-hesitant-about-console-mmos/#comments
While expanding the unrelenting grasp of World of Warcraft to home consoles would undoubtedly net Blizzard an extra googolplex subscribers, there's a number of hurdles keeping MMOs from succeeding on non-PC platforms -- hurdles that were identified by Blizzard's executive VP of game design, Rob Pardo, in a recent interview with IndustryGamers.

Some hurdles are self-evident, such as the lack of a "keyboard and mouse" input device, and the massive amounts of storage space required for most online games (WoW is up to 10 gigs). Some have to do with the policies of the hardware manufacturers themselves, such as Microsoft's lengthy certification measures which would make WoW's frequent patches a nightmare to publish. However, according to Pardo, Microsoft has asked Blizzard for MMO advice, and has shown the company "some stuff they have in development." Halo MMO re-confirmed! (No, not really.)

Pardo's MMO outlook for the current generation of consoles is poor, but he thinks the next round of hardware is more likely to get it right -- at which point, people will be able to play WoW on any platform they want, and pretty much everyone will stop leaving the house. Hooray?

JoystiqBlizzard still hesitant about console MMOs originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Jun 2009 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardconsoleMicrosoftmmommorpgrob-pardoXbox-360Thu, 25 Jun 2009 20:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Shock! New Xbox Elite bundle with Halo 3, Fable II [Update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/20/shock-ms-reveals-new-xbox-elite-bundle-with-halo-3-fable-ii/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/20/shock-ms-reveals-new-xbox-elite-bundle-with-halo-3-fable-ii/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/20/shock-ms-reveals-new-xbox-elite-bundle-with-halo-3-fable-ii/#comments
Today, Microsoft revealed a new Xbox 360 Elite bundle headed to store shelves this May. The Xbox 360 Game of the Year bundle includes the little-known online shooter called Halo 3 and Joystiq's 2008 game of the year pick, Fable II. The M-rated bundle is priced at $399, making the two million-plus unit selling pack-in titles free of charge.

Those of you keeping score at home will remember rumors of an elite bundle, which was set to include the two Microsoft Game Studios powerhouse titles, had been floating around the web earlier this month. Microsoft, continuing a long history of totally being able to keep a secret, confirmed the bundle today via Major Nelson's blog.

Update: Major Nelson has clarified this bundle will be available in all regions where Xbox 360 is sold, except those in Europe.

JoystiqShock! New Xbox Elite bundle with Halo 3, Fable II [Update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Apr 2009 12:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Actionbundleconsoleelitefable-2halo-3hardwarehardware-bundleLionheadLionhead-StudiosMGSMicrosoftMicrosoft-Game-StudiosRPGXbox-360xbox-360-bundlexbox-360-eliteMon, 20 Apr 2009 12:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft shrugs off PlayStation 2 price cut]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/31/microsoft-shrugs-off-playstation-2-price-cut/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/31/microsoft-shrugs-off-playstation-2-price-cut/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/31/microsoft-shrugs-off-playstation-2-price-cut/#comments
If you were holding your breath for Microsoft's response to the PlayStation 2's recently announced $99 price point, it's now safe to exhale -- Microsoft vice-president of interactive entertainment business Chris Lewis recently issued a calm, cool and collected statement regarding the discount, stating, "The future lies in the growth of current generation consoles," a future in which he's confident the Xbox 360 will continue to trump the PS3.

Considering the original Xbox has been discontinued for nearly three years, Microsoft hasn't had a horse in the sixth-generation race for quite some time now. Still, it'll be interesting to see if the bargain-priced PS2 can take a bigger chunk out of current-gen console sales in light of the not-so-awesome state of the economy.

JoystiqMicrosoft shrugs off PlayStation 2 price cut originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 31 Mar 2009 17:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chris-lewisconsolecurrent-genmicrosoftprice-cutsonyTue, 31 Mar 2009 17:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Nintoaster plays SNES games, doesn't make toast]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/22/super-nintoaster-plays-snes-games-doesnt-make-toast/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/22/super-nintoaster-plays-snes-games-doesnt-make-toast/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/22/super-nintoaster-plays-snes-games-doesnt-make-toast/#comments
If you prefer video game consoles that look like common kitchen appliances (here's looking at you, PS3), have we got a treat for you -- BenHeck.com contributor Vomitsaw recently put the final loving touches on his Super Nintoaster project, which, as the portmanteau-sensitive among you have probably already discerned, is a Super Nintendo. Inside of a toaster. It's safer than it sounds (we think).

It's actually Vomitsaw's second toaster-based console mod -- he crafted a regular ol' Nintoaster last fall. Sadly, neither model has been able to fulfill its kitchen appliance destiny, and won't do much to conflagrate your bread. It's probably for the best -- all it takes is one mistaken slot, and you've got a golden brown, formerly priceless copy of Chrono Trigger, which we hear is actually pretty delicious with raspberry preserves.

[Via Engadget]

Continue reading Super Nintoaster plays SNES games, doesn't make toast

JoystiqSuper Nintoaster plays SNES games, doesn't make toast originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 22 Mar 2009 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consolehackmodsuper-nintoastertoastervomitsawSun, 22 Mar 2009 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Major Nelson unboxes the red Resident Evil 5 Xbox 360 bundle [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/25/major-nelson-unboxes-the-red-resident-evil-5-xbox-360-bundle/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/25/major-nelson-unboxes-the-red-resident-evil-5-xbox-360-bundle/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/25/major-nelson-unboxes-the-red-resident-evil-5-xbox-360-bundle/#commentsHere it is, folks. Major Nelson has done us the courtesy of producing the above unboxing video for the red Resident Evil 5 Xbox 360 console. New facts have emerged, as we now know the bundle features not only a gaming console, but also a headset, and a power supply. There's even a copy of Resident Evil 5 in there to enjoy. You'll be able to scare up one of your own next month, on Friday the 13th.

Update: A few folks have brought it to our attention that the red Xbox 360 shown in Major's video is one of the newer, more reliable Jasper models. During the video, Major mentions the console includes a Jasper-sized 150 watt power supply and also shows the power plug-in. A plug-in that looks oh so similar to the special Jasper connector.

We aren't sure if all RE5 Xbox 360s will feature Jasper chipsets, but we're nearly certain that the hardware in this video has Jasper innards. Take that knowledge for whatever it's worth.

[Via Engadget]

Gallery: Resident Evil 5 Xbox 360 Bundle

JoystiqMajor Nelson unboxes the red Resident Evil 5 Xbox 360 bundle [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Feb 2009 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bundlecapcomconsolemajor-nelsonMicrosoftred-xbox-360resident-evil-5Xbox-360Wed, 25 Feb 2009 20:01:00 EST<![CDATA[It's the big brown Domo themed Xbox 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/26/its-the-big-brown-domo-themed-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/26/its-the-big-brown-domo-themed-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/26/its-the-big-brown-domo-themed-xbox-360/#commentsFiled under: ,


Looky! It's the ever popular Japanese Domo Kun making an appearance on an Xbox 360 Arcade console. It's so brown, so angry, and ... well, so Domo! Sadly, this 360 isn't available for purchase at retail (though, Target stores might be interested), because it's a custom creation that was painted as a gift. That said, maybe Microsoft should borrow this Domo 360 branding idea. It'd probably help their Japanese console sales.

[Thanks, Ricepuppet]

JoystiqIt's the big brown Domo themed Xbox 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Dec 2008 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consoledomomodsx3f-twitterxbox-360Fri, 26 Dec 2008 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Jasper 360s: Secret to succesful identification]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/11/jasper-360s-secret-to-succesful-identification/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/11/jasper-360s-secret-to-succesful-identification/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/11/jasper-360s-secret-to-succesful-identification/#commentsFiled under:


We spotted an informative writeup over at AnandTech regarding various Xbox 360 Jasper identification strategies. What's a Jasper? Well, Jasper is the codename for the latest Xbox 360 models to roll off production and house tiny 65nm CPU and GPUs. The smallest, coolest, least power demanding, most stable and generally "best" Xbox 360 version to be manufactured.

Anyhoo, if you're in the market for a 360, we highly recommend you try to secure a Jasper 360 using a few of AnandTech's Jasper identification strategies. They've detailed tips including console lot number matching, looking up the console wattage and - most accurate of all - looking at the power connector. Remember, Jaspers are teh hawtness. You want Jaspers.

JoystiqJasper 360s: Secret to succesful identification originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Dec 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consolejasperxbox-360-jasperThu, 11 Dec 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft confirms 256MB internal storage in Xbox 360 Arcade units]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/02/microsoft-confirms-256mb-internal-storage-in-xbox-360-arcade-uni/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/02/microsoft-confirms-256mb-internal-storage-in-xbox-360-arcade-uni/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/02/microsoft-confirms-256mb-internal-storage-in-xbox-360-arcade-uni/#commentsFiled under:

As if all the images and videos weren't enough evidence, we've now received official confirmation from Microsoft that new Xbox 360 Arcade units do come with 256MB of internal storage. Speaking with us, a Microsoft spokesperson said quite simply, "We are constantly updating the console's more than 1700 internal components. We can confirm that we are moving to internal memory for the Xbox 360 Arcade. The physical internal memory is the same size as the previous external memory units - 256MB."

So there you have it kids, the Xbox 360 Arcade now has internal memory instead of an external Memory Unit. That means you can save games and download content right out of the box, but if you want to take it anywhere, you'll need to pick up a Memory Unit like everyone else.

JoystiqMicrosoft confirms 256MB internal storage in Xbox 360 Arcade units originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Dec 2008 17:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcadeconsolexbox-360-arcadeTue, 02 Dec 2008 17:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Mod plays NES in a NES cartridge]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/05/mod-plays-nes-in-a-nes-cartridge/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/05/mod-plays-nes-in-a-nes-cartridge/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/05/mod-plays-nes-in-a-nes-cartridge/#commentsFiled under:

This might just be the coolest thing we see all weekend.

Darkeru from the Ben Heck forums came up with the idea for this beauty, and after months of "careful planning," finally finished his creation. It's exactly what you think it is; a mod that plays NES games on a NES game cartridge. What an ingeniously simple idea (though if we really think about it, our brains might implode).

The games are built into the portable -- ninety-nine of them, in fact -- which sounds pretty convenient. Other than that, we have nothing to say except that we're still gawking at this thing. Oh, and do want.


[Via Engadget]

We're always talking about Mods here at Wii Fanboy. Have you seen the Super Mario Galaxy mod? How about the homage to the original Super Mario Bros? How about this air-brushed Twilight Princess mod? Keep up with the modding scene by staying up to date with Wii Fanboy!

JoystiqMod plays NES in a NES cartridge originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 05 Jul 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cartridgeconsoledarkeruhacknesSat, 05 Jul 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Diablo 3 'theoretically possible' for console port]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/05/diablo-3-theoretically-possible-for-console-port/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/05/diablo-3-theoretically-possible-for-console-port/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/05/diablo-3-theoretically-possible-for-console-port/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


In our interview with Diablo 3 lead designer Jay Wilson, it was explained that there were no plans to bring the long-awaited title to any platform other than PC and Mac. However, in the six days that have passed since said interview, a couple of Blizzard higher-ups weren't quite as dismissive of the possibility of the dungeon crawler making an appearance on our primitive gameboxes -- though the language used to describe this possibility hasn't exactly given us high-apple-pie-in-the-sky hopes.

When asked about a console rendition of the third entry in the Lord of Terror-slaying franchise, Blizzard COO Paul Sams gave an inconclusive "I don't know yet," though Vice President of Game Design Rob Pardo suggested a console port was "theoretically possible," as out of all of Blizzard's franchises, Diablo would be the most console-friendly. We guess a theoretical "yes" is better than an actual "no", or a metaphorical "maybe", but we're still not holding our bated breath for a non-compy version of Diablo the Third.

JoystiqDiablo 3 'theoretically possible' for console port originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 05 Jul 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardblizzard-entertainmentconsolediablo-3macpcportps3Xbox-360xbox360Sat, 05 Jul 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[360 breaks 5 million, nabs lead in Europe, says MS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/26/360-breaks-5-million-nabs-lead-in-europe-says-ms/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/26/360-breaks-5-million-nabs-lead-in-europe-says-ms/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/26/360-breaks-5-million-nabs-lead-in-europe-says-ms/#commentsFiled under: ,


Remember last month when Sony claimed that the PS3 had surpassed the Xbox 360 in Europe? The battle of the numbers continues today as European VP of strategic marketing for interactive entertainment at Microsoft EMEA (say that three times fast) David Gosen let it be known that the Xbox 360 has sold more than 5 million units in Europe, "well over" 5 million in fact. He also puts a stop to Sony's shenanigans -- assuming his word is better than Sony's anyway -- by noting that the Xbox 360 is actually "at least, if not more than, three quarters of a million ahead of PS3." Gosen also takes issue with analysts' claims that 360 sales have slowed in Europe saying, "If we look at the momentum in the business in the last few months, the trajectory has changed significantly," adding that analysts should "check their numbers."

Ooh, did you hear that analysts? Burn!

Joystiq360 breaks 5 million, nabs lead in Europe, says MS originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Jun 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessconsoleconsole-warseuropexbox-360xbox-360-consoleThu, 26 Jun 2008 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Korea getting its Wii on April 26]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/14/korea-getting-its-wii-on-april-26/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/14/korea-getting-its-wii-on-april-26/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/14/korea-getting-its-wii-on-april-26/#commentsFiled under: ,


The official Nintendo Korea site states the country will join the chorus of global Wii worship on April 26, 2008 for 220,000 won ($225 USD). The console will launch with eight titles, including Wii Sports (not included in box), Wii Play -- one of the best selling pieces of "software" in the US -- and puzzle adventure game Zack & Wiki.

The launch happens a little over a week before Children's Day, a popular gift-giving holiday in the country. We'll have to wait and see if the Wii can pull Koreans away from their computer screens -- and Starcraft -- long enough to try out some console gaming.

[Via GoNintendo]

JoystiqKorea getting its Wii on April 26 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Apr 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consolekoreawiiMon, 14 Apr 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Former Xbox Europe exec foresees the extinction of consoles]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/29/former-xbox-europe-exec-foresees-the-extinction-of-consoles/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/29/former-xbox-europe-exec-foresees-the-extinction-of-consoles/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/29/former-xbox-europe-exec-foresees-the-extinction-of-consoles/#commentsFiled under: , ,


It's been nearly a year and a half since the beginning of the current console war, and supporters of the Wii, PS3, and 360 are still set deep in their trenches, fighting the good fight. Gallons of fanboy blood and immeasurable amounts of bandwidth have been spilled in this epic struggle -- and according to Sandy Duncan, former VP for Xbox Europe, it's all for naught. All gaming consoles, he claims, will "die out" within the next five to ten years.

No, a console-corrupting pandemic isn't going to sweep the planet -- Duncan predicts that dedicated gaming devices will give way to digital distribution through cable and satellite set-top boxes and online gaming options (though considering his executive position with the web-based YoYo games, this could just be simple, doe-eyed optimism). This presents an interesting question: with no consoles to crusade for, what brave new enterprises will the fanboys move on to? Advertising? Public Relations? God help us -- politics?

JoystiqFormer Xbox Europe exec foresees the extinction of consoles originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 29 Mar 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consoleonlinegamingps3sandy duncansandyduncansettopboxwiiXboxxbox360yoyogamesSat, 29 Mar 2008 17:00:00 EST