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[The Joystiq Indie Pitch: Life is Crime]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/the-joystiq-indie-pitch-life-is-crime/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/the-joystiq-indie-pitch-life-is-crime/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/the-joystiq-indie-pitch-life-is-crime/#comments Indie developers are the starving artists of the video-game world, often brilliant and innovative, but also misunderstood, underfunded and more prone to writing free-form poetry on their LiveJournals. We at Joystiq believe no one deserves to starve, and many indie developers are entitled to a fridge full of tasty, fulfilling media coverage, right here. This week, crime bosses Pete Hawley, Mikey Ouye and John Harris of Red Robot Labs take the street to your phone in their location-based, real-world social title, Life is Crime.
What's your game called and what's it about?

Mike Ouye: Our game is called Life Is Crime. It's a free-to-play, social, location-based crime-themed mobile game for Android and iOS. Players commit virtual crimes at real locations, visiting their local bar, coffee shop and bank to perform missions, sell contraband and fight with other players. The more active players are, the more turf they control and the higher their criminal reputation becomes.

How vicious is the crime-app competition on mobile devices, and how do you feel Red Robot Labs is faring?

Mike Ouye: We took a unique approach by launching on Android first, then approaching the iOS market, and so far it has paid off. Life Is Crime has over a million downloads on Android since its launch at PAX West in August 2011. This created momentum so that when it released on the iTunes App Store January 5th, it rose to the number two on the Free Apps list.

Pete Hawley: As for Red Robot Labs, our company has expanded into the UK, joining forces with Supermono, and continues to grow rapidly here in the US. In fact, we're still hiring, so if mobile gaming is your thing you should come work for us!

We're hoping that location, high polish, and innovation will help set us apart.

Continue reading The Joystiq Indie Pitch: Life is Crime

JoystiqThe Joystiq Indie Pitch: Life is Crime originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 Mar 2012 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidcrimeiosipadiphoneJohn-Harrisjoystiq-indie-pitchLife-is-Crimelocation-basedMike-OuyemobilePete-HawleyRed-Robot-LabsTue, 27 Mar 2012 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Telltale developing episodic Law & Order: LA games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/18/telltale-developing-episodic-law-and-order-la-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/18/telltale-developing-episodic-law-and-order-la-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/18/telltale-developing-episodic-law-and-order-la-games/#comments Though the latest geographically distinct installment in Dick Wolf's long running procedural drama, Law & Order: LA, is still in its first season, NBC Universal has partnered with adapter extraordinaire Telltalle Games to add some playability to the franchise. A press release has revealed that Telltale's working on an episodic adventure game series due out late this year for PC, Mac and unspecified consoles, in addition to smartphones and tablets.

According to the presser, the games "will take the crime solving focus to interrogation and criminal investigations, with a heavy dose of courtroom drama on each case." Sounds ... like Law & Order. We just hope that it also implements the eerie head-scanning futuretech that's being used in that other LA-based crime-solving sim. You know. We just got to get that Molina face.

Continue reading Telltale developing episodic Law & Order: LA games

JoystiqTelltale developing episodic Law & Order: LA games originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Apr 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventurecrimelaw-and-orderlaw-and-order-lamacmobilepctelltale-gamesMon, 18 Apr 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New L.A. Noire case info and screens keep the trail hot]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/01/new-l-a-noire-case-info-and-screens-keep-the-trail-hot/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/01/new-l-a-noire-case-info-and-screens-keep-the-trail-hot/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/01/new-l-a-noire-case-info-and-screens-keep-the-trail-hot/#comments Stepping into April means we're one month closer to L.A. Noire's May release, but it's not enough. We just can't wait to hit the streets of 1940s Los Angeles as a hard-boiled beat cop, and this update from the official Rockstar blog isn't helping. Not only are there new screens to see, but we get details on two early cases in the game. One's a standard "robbery in progress" call tasking you with delivering a bit of shotgun justice to the local grocer, and the other one's a crime scene investigation, where you've got to hunt for a murder weapon in the dark.

Rockstar also says that walking the beat and solving these crimes is "how you pay your dues" as a uniformed officer, so not only are you out to right wrongs, but you're trying to impress the higher-ups and make detective as well. It just sounds like too much fun -- come on April showers, bring us a new Rockstar game already!

Gallery: L.A. Noire (4/1/11)

JoystiqNew L.A. Noire case info and screens keep the trail hot originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Apr 2011 21:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crimedetectiveinvestigationLA-Noiremicrosoftpcplaystationps3rockstar-gamesxboxFri, 01 Apr 2011 21:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Zynga Poker hacker sentenced to two years after stealing $11 million]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/23/zynga-poker-hacker-sentenced-to-two-years-after-stealing-11-mil/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/23/zynga-poker-hacker-sentenced-to-two-years-after-stealing-11-mil/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/23/zynga-poker-hacker-sentenced-to-two-years-after-stealing-11-mil/#comments 29-year old Devon, England citizen Ashley Mitchell -- who we'll be referring to as "Cyber Danny Ocean" for the remainder of this article -- has been sentenced to two years in prison plus a 30-week suspended sentence for stealing £7 million ($11.4 million) in virtual currency for Zynga Poker. The methods Cyber Danny Ocean used were far less exciting and sophisticated than his cinematic counterpart: He hijacked the accounts of two Zynga employees, added the funds to his account, and re-sold them for a cool £53,612.

How did C.D.O. get caught? He performed said heist while using his neighbor's unsecured Wi-Fi connection. That seems like a pretty obvious slip-up -- we think he did it on purpose, to spare the rest of his crew from ending up in the slammer. We bet that when he gets out, Cyber Brad Pitt is going to be waiting to pick him up, waiting with a pithy remark about his suit. Who's that in the car? Oh, it's Cyber Julia Roberts -- and she's still in love with him! Credits.

JoystiqZynga Poker hacker sentenced to two years after stealing $11 million originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Mar 2011 15:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crimehackoceans-elevenpcukzyngazynga-pokerWed, 23 Mar 2011 15:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Ohio man jailed for selling copied games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/31/ohio-man-jailed-for-selling-copied-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/31/ohio-man-jailed-for-selling-copied-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/31/ohio-man-jailed-for-selling-copied-games/#commentsIf you bought a bootleg copy of a PC game for the low, low price of $9.95 and you live in the Powell, Ohio area, it's possible you bought it from Qiang "Michael" Bi. First and foremost, please don't buy pirated games. Second of all, you won't have any more opportunities to purchase his illegal wares (or warez), as Bi was sentenced to 30 months in prison "for selling illegally copied computer games between 2005 and 2009" this week.

According to federal agents (via 10tv), Bi purchased legit retail copies of various "computer games," duplicated said games illegally, and then sold copies for $9.95 each through eBay and Amazon.

Bi admitted guilt to three separate counts -- mail fraud, copyright infringement, and aggravated identity theft -- and will pay $367,000 to the court, in addition to forfeiting his home, vehicle, and "electronic equipment." Though no specific publishers are identified, Bi will also have to repay game publishers who lost money due to his actions.

JoystiqOhio man jailed for selling copied games originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 31 Dec 2010 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crimejaillegalmacohiopcpiracyprisonqiang-michael-biFri, 31 Dec 2010 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live used by crime suspect to tamper with witness]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/14/xbox-live-used-by-crime-suspect-to-tamper-with-witness/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/14/xbox-live-used-by-crime-suspect-to-tamper-with-witness/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/14/xbox-live-used-by-crime-suspect-to-tamper-with-witness/#comments A 23-year-old Connecticut man out on bail for drug and gun charges was arrested after sending threatening messages to a witness across Xbox Live. According to the New Haven Register, Anthony Hayward allegedly sent an Xbox Live message, stating "Rats die slow" and including the witness's home address, in December.

The previous summer, Hayward had been arrested after a stolen gun was found under the passenger seat of the car he was driving. The witness stated that Hayward placed it there. Hayward surrendered himself to police Tuesday and was charged with "witness tampering, intimidating a witness and two counts of second-degree harassment."

The judge set bail for this latest offense at $50,000. We set ourselves to facepalm.

[Via Kotaku]

JoystiqXbox Live used by crime suspect to tamper with witness originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Apr 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anthony-haywardcrimefacepalmMicrosoftXbox-360xbox-liveWed, 14 Apr 2010 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOCOM cheater convicted in grand jury investigation for crashing Sony's site]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/28/socom-cheater-convicted-in-grand-jury-investigation-for-crashing/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/28/socom-cheater-convicted-in-grand-jury-investigation-for-crashing/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/28/socom-cheater-convicted-in-grand-jury-investigation-for-crashing/#comments There's a few valuable life lessons in the following story, so pay attention: A Pittsburgh news station recently reported on a 17-year-old boy who was disqualified from a SOCOM U.S. Navy Seals tournament after it was discovered he was cheating. In retaliation, the young man hacked into the official PlayStation site, and crashed it for 11 days back in 2008. Sony re-retaliated by opening up a federal grand jury investigation into the "cyber attack," which led back to the aforementioned boy, who is now in a whole heap of trouble.

The teen pleaded guilty, and was convicted on four felony charges: Unlawful use of a computer, criminal use of a computer, computer trespassing and the distribution of a computer virus. He'll be sentenced later this year. The moral of the story? Don't cheat while playing online games, and don't crash the web sites of gigantic corporate entities. If caught, you could end up being branded a cheater. Or, you know, a felon.

[Via Kotaku]

JoystiqSOCOM cheater convicted in grand jury investigation for crashing Sony's site originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 28 Feb 2010 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cheatercrimecriminalcyber-attacksfelonygrand-juryhacklawsocomsonySun, 28 Feb 2010 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dumbest kids in the universe rob gas station for money to buy 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/22/dumbest-kids-in-the-universe-rob-gas-station-for-money-to-buy-36/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/22/dumbest-kids-in-the-universe-rob-gas-station-for-money-to-buy-36/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/22/dumbest-kids-in-the-universe-rob-gas-station-for-money-to-buy-36/#comments According to a report from a Bellevue, WA news station, four boys, ages 11 through 15, were recently charged with armed robbery after allegedly holding up a local Chevron Food Stop using an airsoft pistol. The goal of their crime of the century was to yoink enough money to purchase an Xbox 360. According to the police report, the boys got away with around $200 -- just enough to purchase a 360 Arcade and no games -- before being caught by an officer shortly thereafter. The amount of thought that went into this thing is just staggering.

By a stroke of coincidence, four men across town were apprehended after robbing a local GameStop to garner money with which to purchase Slurpees and Taco Dogs at a nearby Speedway. More at eleven.

JoystiqDumbest kids in the universe rob gas station for money to buy 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Jan 2010 18:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bellevuecrimekidsmcgruff-the-crime-dog-is-disappointed-in-yourobberyteenstheftwashingtonFri, 22 Jan 2010 18:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live leads Bronx police to prolific, green burglar]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/24/xbox-live-leads-bronx-police-to-prolific-green-burglar/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/24/xbox-live-leads-bronx-police-to-prolific-green-burglar/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/24/xbox-live-leads-bronx-police-to-prolific-green-burglar/#comments (An excerpt from "How The Grinch Robbed 200 Houses and Cars in the Bronx.")

Then he slithered and slunk, with a heart black as onyx,
Around the whole room, stealing all electronics!
Laptops! Fax Machines! iPhones! Three-sixties!
(The latter of which would prove fairly tricky.)
And he stuffed them in bags. Then the Grinch, very nimbly,
Stuffed all the bags, one by one, up the chimney!

And what happened then...?
Well...in Who-ville they say
The Grinch played that Three-sixty,
and without delay --
the Westchester bobbies, with Microsoft's aid,
located the Grinch-lair, and began to invade!
And they brought back the toys! And the tell-tale console!
And the Grinch went to jail. (He'd skipped out on parole.)

[Via HotBloodedGaming]

JoystiqXbox Live leads Bronx police to prolific, green burglar originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 Dec 2009 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crimedr-seussholidayhow-the-grinch-stole-christmasMicrosoftrhymingthe-grinchtheftXbox-360xbox-liveThu, 24 Dec 2009 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[FBI crime study finds video game system theft on the rise]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/17/fbi-crime-study-finds-video-game-system-theft-on-the-rise/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/17/fbi-crime-study-finds-video-game-system-theft-on-the-rise/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/17/fbi-crime-study-finds-video-game-system-theft-on-the-rise/#comments The common criminal is getting smarter, folks. If the results of a recent FBI study on property crimes (published by USA Today) are any indication, professional thieves have learned that yoinking video game consoles is a much more lucrative venture than stealing ceramic tchotchkes from grandma's mantle. According to the report, gaming console theft has increased 285 percent over three years, from 11,074 cases in 2007 to 42,615 cases in 2009.

Sure, this increase could also be attributed to the larger install bases of these consoles, but given our paranoid nature, we're more inclined to believe that criminals are just getting better at their jobs. Of course, there's a simple way to counteract this rise in theft: Just live in a state of constant, apprehensive fear. We don't think it's too -- did you just hear something?

JoystiqFBI crime study finds video game system theft on the rise originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 Dec 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crimefbihamburglarhardwareproperty-crimetheftThu, 17 Dec 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[French police avert school shooting, 13-year-old boy apprehended]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/french-police-avert-school-shooting-13-year-old-boy-apprehended/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/french-police-avert-school-shooting-13-year-old-boy-apprehended/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/french-police-avert-school-shooting-13-year-old-boy-apprehended/#comments According to a report from The Times, French authorities have prevented a school shooting by arresting a 13-year-old boy before he could exact revenge on his teachers for poor marks. Raymond Yeddou, a senior state official in Beauvais, is quoted as saying, "He left his home with a loaded shotgun and 25 cartridges. He went in the direction of the school where, according to his statement, he intended to kill all his teachers." The boy now faces charges of attempted murder.

As GamePolitics notes, several reports -- including the one from The Times, which boasts the headline, "Computer games fan 'planned school massacre'" -- have drawn a connection between the presumably foiled attack and the young boy's hobbies. Piggybacking on word of the boy playing World of Warcraft and other games until "one or two in the morning," the mainstream media has once again attempted to trace unusual, outcast criminal behavior to a culturally entrenched and widespread hobby.

Unless you plan to thoroughly investigate the complex impetus for a planned school shooting, the only use in linking a young boy to video games is to remind us what year we're in. Protip, media: It's 2009. And you're still doing it.

[Via GamePolitics]

JoystiqFrench police avert school shooting, 13-year-old boy apprehended originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beauvaiscrimefrancemainstreamraymond-yeddousensationalismthe-timesThu, 19 Nov 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Man forced by kidnappers to purchase a PlayStation 3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/14/man-forced-by-kidnappers-to-purchase-a-playstation-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/14/man-forced-by-kidnappers-to-purchase-a-playstation-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/14/man-forced-by-kidnappers-to-purchase-a-playstation-3/#comments You can tell the recession is dramatically affecting folks all over the United States when stories about kidnappers forcing their detainee to buy them gaming consoles arise. That's exactly what Kyle Yarkosky is alleging that David Daniels and another unnamed suspect did to him, after forcing him at gunpoint into their vehicle, having him steal his stepfather's credit card, and then drive to the local Walmart where they made him buy them a PlayStation 3.

Naples News reports that the suspected assailants entered the Pebblebrooke Lakes gated community in a white truck, with Yarkosky following behind on foot, said to be headed to "meet a friend." Instead, the truck allegedly stopped, with Daniels and "an Asian-looking man" exiting and ordering Yarkosky into their vehicle. The two suspects are said to have forced Yarkosky to steal his stepfather's credit card and drive to a local Walmart, where Daniels intended on having a gun purchased. When the gun counter was closed, he then requested Yarkosky purchase a PlayStation 3. According to reports, Daniels then told Yarkosky he was "free to go," thus ending the ordeal.

[Thanks Kreyg!]

JoystiqMan forced by kidnappers to purchase a PlayStation 3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 14 Nov 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>collier-countycrimedavid-danielseconomyfloridakidnappingkyle-yarkoskynaples-newsrecessionrobberytheftTheFlamingLipsWal-Mart StoresWal-martStoreswalmart adWalmartAdSat, 14 Nov 2009 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Men dressed as Mario and Luigi rob a cab driver]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/13/men-dressed-as-mario-and-luigi-rob-a-cab-driver/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/13/men-dressed-as-mario-and-luigi-rob-a-cab-driver/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/13/men-dressed-as-mario-and-luigi-rob-a-cab-driver/#comments While it's unbelievably tempting to litter this piece with allusions to the various Mario and Luigi properties, we're instead going to bite our tongues and tell the story of some less-than-gentlemanly gents who beat and robbed a NYC cabbie at 4AM on November 1. According to police reports, the cabbie stopped his car at a gas station when one of the four patrons attempted to steal money out of his pocket. He asked the men to pay their fare and get out, which resulted in the attack.

In the video found on the NY Daily News website, two men dressed as Mario and Luigi can be seen assaulting the cab driver while another person in their party stands about, presumably watching for interference. The men are still at large and police are asking those with information to contact Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-TIPS, log onto NYPD Crime Stoppers, or text 274637 then enter "TIP577."

[Image credit: Bob Dob]
[Via GamePolitics]

[Thanks, Adam]

JoystiqMen dressed as Mario and Luigi rob a cab driver originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 03:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crimehalloweenluigimariomario-and-luigimario-brosny-daily-newsrobberyviolenceFri, 13 Nov 2009 03:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Canadian judge confiscates problem child's Wii as bail]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/05/canadian-judge-confiscates-problem-childs-wii-as-bail/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/05/canadian-judge-confiscates-problem-childs-wii-as-bail/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/05/canadian-judge-confiscates-problem-childs-wii-as-bail/#comments This doesn't just happen in the movies, folks -- it also happens in Canada! Judge Marvin Garfinkle has agreed to release a rather problematic child on bail, granted he provides the court with his beloved console as collateral. The Winnipeg Sun reports that the 12 year old -- whose name has not been released -- has forked over his Wii and, among honoring court dates, must pledge to remain out of trouble, reside with his grandma and participate in a bail management program.

For being 12 years old, the kid certainly has acquired quite an adult-sized rap sheet over the last year, which includes assault, vandalism and even a case of disobeying court order by going to school when he wasn't supposed to.

[Via Yahoo]

JoystiqCanadian judge confiscates problem child's Wii as bail originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>canadacrimejailmarvin-garfinklewinnipegThu, 05 Nov 2009 15:09:00 EST<![CDATA[Over 2000 GameFly games stolen by USPS worker]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/16/over-2000-gamefly-games-stolen-by-usps-worker/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/16/over-2000-gamefly-games-stolen-by-usps-worker/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/16/over-2000-gamefly-games-stolen-by-usps-worker/#comments It's no secret that there's some bad blood between GameFly and the US Postal Service but this ... this is personal. Philly.com reports that Reginald Johnson, a former Philadelphia mail handler, has admitted to a federal court that he stole 2200 GameFly games -- totalling $86,000 in value -- before they could be delivered to local subscribers.

Johnson was caught as the result of an investigation into missing GameFly mailings in the Philadelphia area, conducted by the USPS inspector general. The culprit was spotted during a 2008 test mailing under government surveillance, after which Johnson escaped in his SUV, crashed it, and then fled on foot with a duffel bag, which was later recovered. Between the bag and the SUV, authorities uncovered 160 games and a load of Wii Fit units, controllers, a Playstation and GameStop receipts. It would appear that Johnson had been trading the games at GameStop for store credit. He now faces up to 18 months in prison.

When contacted by Joystiq for comment, a GameFly representative stated that the company appreciates "the diligent efforts by the Office of Inspector General agents" to apprehend Mr. Johnson. Do you hear that? It's the sound of healing.

[Via GamePolitics]

JoystiqOver 2000 GameFly games stolen by USPS worker originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Oct 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crimeculturegameflylegaluspsFri, 16 Oct 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Florida fugitive apprehended after attempting to steal DS games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/27/florida-fugitive-apprehended-after-attempting-to-steal-ds-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/27/florida-fugitive-apprehended-after-attempting-to-steal-ds-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/27/florida-fugitive-apprehended-after-attempting-to-steal-ds-games/#comments
 A loss prevention specialist in a Florida Wal-Mart bagged themselves quite the trophy shoplifter this past week -- a fugitive named Daniel Larson, who was wanted for violating probation after a 2006 armed robbery charge. After being arrested and charged with larceny earlier in the month, he was released after presenting authorities with a fake I.D., and was placed on top of the Cape Coral, FL "Most Wanted" list.

His illicitly acquired freedom came to a sudden halt following his attempt to shoplift $120 worth of Nintendo DS titles from a local Wal-Mart. A loss prevention officer noticed the odd, rectangular shapes jutting out of his pants, and subdued him until authorities arrived. During police questioning, Larson claimed he was stealing the games to support his heroin addiction.

Then again, we wonder if that's really the true story. "Please, man," Larson might have said to the arresting officer, "don't tell them about my insatiable addiction for Imagine: Babyz games. I know! You could say I planned on pawning them to buy heroin! Please, come on, man. This would absolutely ruin me."
[Image]
[Via GamePolitics]

JoystiqFlorida fugitive apprehended after attempting to steal DS games originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 27 Sep 2009 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crimeDSfloridanintendorobberyshopliftingwal-martSun, 27 Sep 2009 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Arcade cabinet used to smuggle pot, DEA nabs 'High Score']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/31/arcade-cabinet-used-to-smuggle-pot-dea-nabs-high-score/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/31/arcade-cabinet-used-to-smuggle-pot-dea-nabs-high-score/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/31/arcade-cabinet-used-to-smuggle-pot-dea-nabs-high-score/#comments
Police have arrested 24-year-old Las Vegas resident Kevin Dixon with unlawful trafficking and possession of cannabis after authorities discovered 172 pounds of the substance hidden inside an arcade cabinet. According to the Daily Herald, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) had been investigating possible drug activity between Arizona and Nevada, which eventually led to the interception of the arcade unit by DEA agents and the Palatine Police Department.

Over $170,000 worth of the "Sticky Icky" was recovered in the bust, landing Dixon (whose mugshot is poorly 'shopped above) in a Cook County courthouse, where bail was set at $250,000. Dixon's motives are unclear, but we're sure some anti-video game activist will let us know exactly which game is to blame for the crime sometime in the near future.

[Thanks, Don]

JoystiqArcade cabinet used to smuggle pot, DEA nabs 'High Score' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 31 Jul 2009 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcadearcade-cabinetcrimedrugsfunnymarijuanasticky-ickytraffickingFri, 31 Jul 2009 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ubisoft and Telltale serving up justice with CSI: Deadly Intent]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/19/ubisoft-and-telltale-serving-up-justice-with-csi-deadly-intent/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/19/ubisoft-and-telltale-serving-up-justice-with-csi-deadly-intent/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/19/ubisoft-and-telltale-serving-up-justice-with-csi-deadly-intent/#comments
If you've always wanted to get elbow-deep inside a human chest cavity in the name of scientific justice, here comes your shining moment. Ubisoft and CBS are teaming up once again to release the seventh gaming adaptation of the popular crime-solving TV show, titled CSI: Deadly Intent (the debut trailer for which is posted after the break).

This time around, Telltale Games is developing it for the Wii, DS, 360 and PC, and it guest stars Lawrence Fishburne as lead investigator Dr. Raymond Langston. Sounds like a recipe for success. We bet it'll make (puts on sunglasses) a killing in the NPDs.

"YEEEEEEEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAAHHHHH!"

Gallery: CSI: Deadly Intent (Xbox 360)

Continue reading Ubisoft and Telltale serving up justice with CSI: Deadly Intent

JoystiqUbisoft and Telltale serving up justice with CSI: Deadly Intent originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 19 Jul 2009 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cbscrimecsicsi-deadly-intentDSlawrence-fishburneMicrosoftmysteryNintendotelltale-gamesubisoftWiiXbox-360Sun, 19 Jul 2009 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Georgia men arrested for returning 'games']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/26/georgia-men-arrested-for-returning-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/26/georgia-men-arrested-for-returning-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/26/georgia-men-arrested-for-returning-games/#comments
Like all crime, the meticulous effort three Georgia men put into buying, opening and selling games -- only to return the seemingly unopened boxes for a refund -- didn't pay. Atlanta's Fox 5 News reports that 29-year-old Levar Thornton, 19-year-old Michael Cunningham and 18-year-old Tyrell Myers managed to swap game discs for blank CD-R media using games purchased from 11 area Wal-Mart stores, amounting to 200 returns in all.

Once the retailer eventually got wise to the scam (guess it had enough of customers complaining their "unopened" games contained blank discs), police arrested the trio, who were found with 400 shipping receipts on them. Evidently, they had sold the swiped software via eBay to tune of at least $10,000, according to Wal-mart's estimated losses.

We're not exactly sure what to make of this final detail: The report states that all of the stolen games were for Xbox 360.

[Thanks, User_Name!]

JoystiqGeorgia men arrested for returning 'games' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Jun 2009 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crimegeorgiawal-martFri, 26 Jun 2009 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GameStop robbery foiled by ceiling, locks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/23/gamestop-robbery-foiled-by-ceiling-locks/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/23/gamestop-robbery-foiled-by-ceiling-locks/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/23/gamestop-robbery-foiled-by-ceiling-locks/#comments
How can we tell that the dude who attempted to rob a Pittsburgh GameStop last night is a real gamer? Just look at his methods: The would-be burglar climbed through air ducts and in through the ceiling of the store, Sam Fisher-style. But when he realized that both the front and back doors of the building were locked, he retreated through the same vent.

A Nintendo Game Counselor consulted about the crime said that if the thief had looked inside the glowing sphere in the corner of the store, he would have found a blue key for the door. Ouch, random criminal, so close.

[Thanks, David]

JoystiqGameStop robbery foiled by ceiling, locks originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Jun 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crimegamestoprobberytheftTue, 23 Jun 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Frat treasurer says he stole money to buy games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/01/frat-treasurer-says-he-stole-money-to-buy-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/01/frat-treasurer-says-he-stole-money-to-buy-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/01/frat-treasurer-says-he-stole-money-to-buy-games/#comments
Jose R. Tavarez, treasurer of the Delta Theta Sigma fraternity at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, is accused of stealing $12,000 from the group. Tavarez says that he took the money to buy video games because his bank card is linked to his parents and "he did not want them seeing that he spent his money on the games."

So embarrassed about his video game habit that he stole? We'd love to know how far he'd go to cover up paying to join a fraternity.

[Via GamePolitics]

JoystiqFrat treasurer says he stole money to buy games originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 May 2009 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crimeFri, 01 May 2009 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EA announces MySims Agents for Wii, DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/22/ea-announces-mysims-agents-for-wii-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/22/ea-announces-mysims-agents-for-wii-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/22/ea-announces-mysims-agents-for-wii-ds/#comments
We always had this sneaking suspicion during our time in MySims' adorably rendered township -- an inkling that some great criminal presence was operating just below the surface of those colorful suburbs. Your quiet, saucer-eyed neighbor, Julia? Drug pusher. Mike, the lawyer from down the street? Human trafficker. Allie, the six-year-old daughter of Julia? Terrorist.

If bustin' scoundrels makes you feel good, you'll be pleased to hear Electronic Arts just announced MySims Agents for the Wii and DS. Though there will probably be some slight variations in gameplay, both titles place you in the patent leather shoes of a special agent tasked with bringing down some scurrilous lawbreaker using gadgets, Columbo-esque clue tracking and a little help from some similarly skilled neighbors. Look for the games to sneak out this Fall.

JoystiqEA announces MySims Agents for Wii, DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Apr 2009 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crimeDSeaElectronic-Artsmysimsmysims-agentsmysteryNintendosimsWiiWed, 22 Apr 2009 10:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Counterfeit DS sellers busted in UK]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/23/counterfeit-ds-sellers-busted-in-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/23/counterfeit-ds-sellers-busted-in-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/23/counterfeit-ds-sellers-busted-in-uk/#commentsFiled under:


For the first time in the nation's history, a couple have been caught selling counterfeit DS systems. The dastardly duo set up shop in Kent, and were nabbed with 40 counterfeit handhelds. The two were unloading the units on unsuspecting eBay shoppers, with Bromley Trading Standards Department and local police catching the criminals.

On top of the systems, the bust also resulted in the capture of faulty power units, game-copying devices, and 150 counterfeit games for the DS and GBA. Authorities suspect the couple made upwards of £50,000 during the month of December alone, and have been at this for at least two years. Remember, kids: crime doesn't pay. Unless it's the month of December and you're willing to go to jail for a long time the following month.

JoystiqCounterfeit DS sellers busted in UK originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 Jan 2009 13:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>counterfeitcrimekenttheftukFri, 23 Jan 2009 13:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Children's home robbed, local businessman replaces stolen Wii]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/31/childrens-home-robbed-local-businessman-replaces-stolen-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/31/childrens-home-robbed-local-businessman-replaces-stolen-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/31/childrens-home-robbed-local-businessman-replaces-stolen-wii/#commentsFiled under:


It's good to know the holiday season wasn't all fist-fighting and theft, as a real heart-warming story has emerged from the UK. You see, last weekend, the Hunter family had left home to attend a wedding, only to return and find their home had been broken into and trashed. As one would expect, a few items were missing, most notably the Nintendo Wii Santa left for their two young children.

Enter Dundee businessman Charlie Kean of Kean Slaters, who stepped forward (among the many other local individuals who've helped this family get through this tough time) to provide the family with a new Wii, as well as some games. Currently, the criminals have yet to be apprehended by authorities.

JoystiqChildren's home robbed, local businessman replaces stolen Wii originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 31 Dec 2008 15:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charlie-keancrimedundeehunter-familykean-slatersthe-hunterstheftukWed, 31 Dec 2008 15:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Two men arrested in Ireland for selling fake Wii consoles]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/22/two-men-arrested-in-ireland-for-selling-fake-wii-consoles/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/22/two-men-arrested-in-ireland-for-selling-fake-wii-consoles/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/22/two-men-arrested-in-ireland-for-selling-fake-wii-consoles/#commentsFiled under:

In Northern Ireland, a pair of men were apparently selling counterfeit Wii consoles (no, not the Vii). When searching a car in the New Lodge Road area of Belfast, police discovered several counterfeit consoles. The men, aged 19 and 22, were then detained by police.

We'd just like to take this moment to warn that it could happen to any of you. If you're still desperate for a console (you should be able to track one down at a store by now, if you check early enough every day, we would think) and using services like craigslist or eBay, take caution. The person selling the Wii could be trying to pull the wool over your eyes.

JoystiqTwo men arrested in Ireland for selling fake Wii consoles originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>counterfeitcounterfeitingcrimeirelandukWed, 22 Oct 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Pennsylvania man assaulted by brass knuckles over PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/05/pennsylvania-man-assaulted-by-brass-knuckles-over-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/05/pennsylvania-man-assaulted-by-brass-knuckles-over-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/05/pennsylvania-man-assaulted-by-brass-knuckles-over-ps3/#commentsFiled under:

An 18-year-old man was punched in the face with brass knuckles and then kicked during a dispute over the ownership of a PlayStation 3, the Tribune-Review reports. Here's how it went down: the unidentified victim went up to a group of about 30 people 9:30PM in Greensburg, Pennsylvania, curious to know why people were gathered there. Next thing he knew, it was brass knuckles in the face and his PS3 was taken from him.

Now the police are searching for four men who assaulted him, as they were not apprehended at the scene of the crime. Maybe it was best not to approach a large group of people gathered on a street corner after-dark with your PS3, huh?

[Via Kotaku]

JoystiqPennsylvania man assaulted by brass knuckles over PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 05 Sep 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crimeplaystation-3playstation3ps3Fri, 05 Sep 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Law of the Game on Joystiq: Let the punishment fit the crime]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/14/law-of-the-game-on-joystiq-let-the-punishment-fit-the-crime/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/14/law-of-the-game-on-joystiq-let-the-punishment-fit-the-crime/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/14/law-of-the-game-on-joystiq-let-the-punishment-fit-the-crime/#commentsFiled under:

Each week Mark Methenitis contributes Law of the Game on Joystiq, a column on legal issues as they relate to video games:

We've be hearing a lot about the Thai cabbie killing lately and how it was (or wasn't) caused by Grand Theft Auto. In the wake of that tragic murder, there have been two major groups of outcries. The first has been the call to regulate games; one we have heard all too often. The other has been a call to revise criminal penalties; one which is not only new, but speaks to the core theory behind criminal law: the theory of punishment. Criminal law theory is something that is universal in all of our criminal codes, but isn't often discussed. It's this "theoretical" approach that we'll look at today. You may agree or disagree with my particular thoughts on the theory of criminal law, but it's more important for everyone to understand a theoretical approach to criminal law so that we can come to our own conclusions about true "justice."

The concept of criminal law starts with some basic political philosophy. In order to have a society, there has to be a set of rules by which that society operates. Whether you want to view this as the social contract in a Locke/Hobbes/Rousseau manner or through some other philosophical lens, the basic need for rules and order in a society is more or less the same. This need for rules gives rise to the concept of the law, and one of those concepts is the boundaries of behavior that stray into what we, as a society, feel need to be punished. This is the basis for all criminal law, be it a crime against a person or a crime against property.

Continue reading Law of the Game on Joystiq: Let the punishment fit the crime

JoystiqLaw of the Game on Joystiq: Let the punishment fit the crime originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Aug 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cabbiecolumnscrimecriminalcriminal-mindsgrand-theft-auto-ivgta-ivlawlaw-of-the-gamethailandThu, 14 Aug 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Unsolved Crimes offers more clues about gameplay]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/28/unsolved-crimes-offers-more-clues-about-gameplay/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/28/unsolved-crimes-offers-more-clues-about-gameplay/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/28/unsolved-crimes-offers-more-clues-about-gameplay/#commentsFiled under: ,

Anyone who was around thirty-some years ago (or saw the movie Summer of Sam) might know that New York City wasn't the safest of places during the 1970s. That's why we're even more intrigued by the realistic-looking adventure game, Unsolved Crimes, which takes place in this crime-filled setting.

The game should be releasing this fall (in the UK, at least), and centers around a rookie detective. He (and therefore, you,) must figure out the circumstances behind the disappearance of aspiring model Betty Blake. The game will focus on the one overarching storyline, but will include other mysteries for you to solve as well (à la Hotel Dusk). In fact, the press release boasts that there are eight different cases to solve.

Also like Hotel Dusk, you'll have to pay close attention to detail so that you can answer questions later (in addition to point-and-click adventure gaming and action-packed shootouts). Check out the new screens in the gallery below for more of an idea of what to expect.

JoystiqUnsolved Crimes offers more clues about gameplay originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Jul 2008 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventurecrimeempire-interactivemysterynow-productionunsolved-crimesMon, 28 Jul 2008 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Unsolved Crimes, revealed!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/unsolved-crimes-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/unsolved-crimes-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/unsolved-crimes-revealed/#commentsFiled under: ,

Take a dash of trenchcoat, a hint of hat, and a pinch of grizzled police chief. Bake it for 24 hours under a forensic microscope, and BAM! Unsolved Crimes is born. The lack of realistic detective work on the DS needs to be addressed, and these new gallery screens for the upcoming adventure look extremely promising.

You'll be treated to fully 3D environments, a rather detailed case inventory system, and perhaps even driving segments. If Empire Interactive can replicate intricate investigative scenarios and rustle together a reasonably complex detective tale, then Unsolved Crimes won't stay unsolved for long. That is, people will buy it. And finish it.

JoystiqUnsolved Crimes, revealed! originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Jun 2008 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventurecrimeempire-interactivemysterynow-productionunsolved-crimesFri, 20 Jun 2008 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[WRUP: She shouldn't have eaten the pizza rolls edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/13/wrup-she-shouldnt-have-eaten-the-pizza-rolls-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/13/wrup-she-shouldnt-have-eaten-the-pizza-rolls-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/13/wrup-she-shouldnt-have-eaten-the-pizza-rolls-edition/#commentsFiled under:


Seriously, she only brought it on herself. Sharing is caring.

In all seriousness, we were looking forward to the release of Jake Hunter: Detective Chronicles this weekend for some crime-solving fun, but after checking out the reviews and discovering our localized version would only get half the game the Japanese currently enjoy, we're doubting if the man is as tall as he's said to be.

With that said, we don't know how this weekend will unfold for us, from a game-playing perspective. So, what will we play? Wait, who cares! We're just some jerks who blog. Let's find out from more important people what they'll be enjoying this weekend.

What will you be playing?

JoystiqWRUP: She shouldn't have eaten the pizza rolls edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Jun 2008 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventureaksyscrimedramajake-hunterjake-hunter-detective-chroniclesnoirnovelFri, 13 Jun 2008 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Promotional Consideration: The Usual Suspects]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/01/promotional-consideration-the-usual-suspects/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/01/promotional-consideration-the-usual-suspects/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/01/promotional-consideration-the-usual-suspects/#commentsFiled under:



This week's creative but confusing installment comes from Leo Burnett Milan, the same advertising firm behind "Communion Day," the first Promotional Consideration ad (and one of the smartest) we ever featured. The print piece presents a police lineup of criminals and ne'er-do-wells, suspects for an unspecified crime -- really, it's less of a "whodunit" than it is a "what does it mean?" Step past the post break and peer through this one-way mirror to solve the mystery yourself!

Continue reading Promotional Consideration: The Usual Suspects

JoystiqPromotional Consideration: The Usual Suspects originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 01 Jun 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adbrain-agebrain-trainingcrimecriminalitalleo-burnettleoburnettlineupprint-adthe-usual-suspectswitnessSun, 01 Jun 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PSP used in unsavory upskirt shots]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/29/psp-used-in-unsavory-upskirt-shots/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/29/psp-used-in-unsavory-upskirt-shots/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/29/psp-used-in-unsavory-upskirt-shots/#commentsFiled under:

Now we know why the PSP is selling so well in Japan. It's all because the PSP can double as a gaming device and a cleverly disguised covert camera for train perverts. Just like what happened in this shameful story of a 59-year old Nagoya technical college deputy head, who allegedly took some upskirt shots of a 19-year old female.

The incident happened on the Nagoya Kintetsu train line. The local TV news constructed the images seen above which retell how the crime went down. As for the fate of the old dirty man, he's been arrested under Japan's anti-stalking laws. The PSP has probably been confiscated.

[Via Destructoid]

JoystiqPSP used in unsavory upskirt shots originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 May 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crimejapanpspThu, 29 May 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Crook nabs 360, replaces with original Xbox]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/28/crook-nabs-360-replaces-with-original-xbox/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/28/crook-nabs-360-replaces-with-original-xbox/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/28/crook-nabs-360-replaces-with-original-xbox/#commentsFiled under:


We've covered our fair share of Xbox thievery stories in the past, but this one is different. In this case, the criminal involved seems to have a particularly evil sense of humor. An Xbox 360 was stolen from a hall government member at Northwestern University in Illinois. According to the victim, the 360 was locked in a closet on May 11. The victim realized the crime had been committed when he opened the closet on May 22 -- still locked -- to find the 360 had been replaced with the original (and decidedly less svelte) Xbox 1.

We're certainly not condoning the crime -- we hope the thief is caught and the 360 returned -- but we have to admit that is one helluva burn.

[Thanks, Jim. Via Binge Gamer]

JoystiqCrook nabs 360, replaces with original Xbox originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 May 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crimetheftxbox-1xbox-crimexbox-thiefWed, 28 May 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Grand theft console: The story of 1,440 stolen PS3s]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/21/grand-theft-console-the-story-of-1-440-stolen-ps3s/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/21/grand-theft-console-the-story-of-1-440-stolen-ps3s/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/21/grand-theft-console-the-story-of-1-440-stolen-ps3s/#commentsFiled under:

Two men have been arrested and found guilty for being a part of quite possibly the biggest PS3 heist in history. Partizan Zejak and Nard Paloka, two men originally from Albania (uh oh, GTA IV jokes abound ... ) were unanimously convicted for the theft of 1,440 PlayStation 3 consoles in Grange Park, Northampton, UK.

The incident occurred in May of last year at a NYK Logistics warehouse where Paloka and Zejak used to work. NYK Logistics, a contracted distributor for Sony, said that 25 pallets containing PS3 consoles went missing since then and have not been recovered. The amount of merchandise stolen totaled up to £700,000 (US $1.4 million). That's a huge pay off; way more than any GTA IV mission could ever offer. Nice try guys, but now you're paying for it.

[Thanks Andy!]

JoystiqGrand theft console: The story of 1,440 stolen PS3s originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 May 2008 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crimeps3theftukWed, 21 May 2008 20:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Teens kidnapped and tortured over missing PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/teens-kidnapped-and-tortured-over-missing-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/teens-kidnapped-and-tortured-over-missing-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/teens-kidnapped-and-tortured-over-missing-ps3/#commentsFiled under:

It wasn't too long ago that someone was killed over a PS3, and now we're hearing about teenagers getting kidnapped, tortured, and possibly sexually assaulted all because of a game. This tragic story starts off with two teens heading to a bus stop after school last Friday in Baltimore. At the bus stop, the two were allegedly coerced into a car by four suspects, blindfolded, taken to an unknown location, and then tortured. The suspects were looking for information on a missing PS3 system and an unnamed game.

When the two teenagers couldn't provide their kidnappers with information, they were then released and strangely given $20 for a ride to a hospital. The teens suffered from burn marks and stab wounds. One of the suspects, Christopher Johnson, has been arrested and charged with kidnapping and aggravated assault. Police are still on the search for the other three suspects.

We're really hoping not to hear another story like this anytime soon -- or ever, for that matter. It's really depressing to hear about videogames being linked with violent crimes. These recent stories, however, have nothing to do with videogames influencing/conditioning violence upon people; instead, these stories have only proven that games have played a passive role as objects of desire while these criminals and their already innate decadent behavior are the real cancer of society.

Read: Softpedia
Read: MSNBC

JoystiqTeens kidnapped and tortured over missing PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 May 2008 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crimeps3Wed, 14 May 2008 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Man kills neighbor over missing PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/08/man-kills-neighbor-over-missing-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/08/man-kills-neighbor-over-missing-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/08/man-kills-neighbor-over-missing-ps3/#commentsFiled under:

Being a protective console owner is one thing, but taking obsessive love for one's system to violent ends is a whole other ballpark. Take the story of Edward Keith Stoddard Jr. who was arrested last night in Dade City for murdering his neighbor over a missing PlayStation 3. He's accused of murdering neighbor Douglas F. Abrams when the two were arguing over the PS3 in question on April 24.

It's such a sad thing to hear that someone had to die over something so trivial. Sure, most of us love our systems, but not enough to kill for it. It's not clear whether the PS3 was the only reason for the murder, but even if it wasn't, it wouldn't matter. The story would end the same -- someone's dead, the other's in jail, and the PS3 still missing.

[Via Digg]

JoystiqMan kills neighbor over missing PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 May 2008 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crimedeathThu, 08 May 2008 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GTA4 preview details online multiplayer modes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/08/gta4-preview-details-online-multiplayer-modes/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/08/gta4-preview-details-online-multiplayer-modes/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/08/gta4-preview-details-online-multiplayer-modes/#commentsFiled under: , ,


GameTap has finally gotten a chance to share the previously embargoed details of its recent hands-on time with Grand Theft Auto IV. The preview discusses four of the game's fifteen online modes: Team Deathmatch, GTA Race, Cops 'N Crooks (a Counter-Strike style team match) and Hangman's Noose (a co-operative escort mission).

Among the interesting details discussed (some of which have also been revealed elsewhere):
  • Previously rumored 16-player online play is confirmed.
  • The online maps aren't changed in any way from single-player -- you can still drive vehicles from one end of the city to the other, if you want.
  • There's no co-op option for the single-player missions, but many online modes allow for cooperation.
  • Ranked online matches earn players in-game cash for character customization. Higher difficulty means more cash.
  • Race mode can be played with or without weapons.
  • The volume of other characters voices will vary depending on their distance from you. "So if you hear an enemy's voice, he's probably right behind you and it's too late."
The most telling quote in the preview is Vice President of Game Development Geronimo Barrera's suggestion that "after players earn the cell phone in the single-player game (which takes about five minutes), if they want they can jump online and never even play the single-player again." With the extremely varied multiplayer options, we might just be taking him up on that.

Note: GameTap's servers are getting hit pretty hard, so the Read link may not load for a while.

Update: They're all live! GTA4.net has posted links to numerous multiplayer previews. (Thanks Cal!)

JoystiqGTA4 preview details online multiplayer modes originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 Apr 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crimegametapgrand-theft-autogta-ivmultiplayeronlinepreviewPS3Xbox-360Tue, 08 Apr 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Getaway still on its way to PS3, possibly to theatres]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/09/the-getaway-still-on-its-way-to-ps3-possibly-to-theatres/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/09/the-getaway-still-on-its-way-to-ps3-possibly-to-theatres/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/09/the-getaway-still-on-its-way-to-ps3-possibly-to-theatres/#commentsFiled under: ,


Though not as critically acclaimed or financially successful as other games of its ilk, The Getaway series has found a cult following in the "Get Carter" crowd -- the aficionados of British crime cinema. This niche group of gangster-loving film buffs will probably be pleased to learn that not only is a Getaway release still on its way to the PS3, but a film adaptation of the game is also possibly in the cards.

These hints were dropped by The Getaway 3's writer, Katie Ellwood, who mentioned that SCEA was in talks with various production houses to try and hand off the rights to bring the series to theatres. It's certainly a better body of work to base a movie off of than other game-adapted films we can think of -- a sentiment we wouldn't suggest disagreeing with, unless you wish to be fed to half-starved pigs (link NSFW, and completely awesome).

JoystiqThe Getaway still on its way to PS3, possibly to theatres originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 09 Mar 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>britishcrimegetawaygetaway3movieplaystation3ps3SCEAsonySony-Computer-Entertainment-Americathegetaway3Sun, 09 Mar 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Law of the Game on Joystiq: Call the cops, he stole my Cloudsong!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/06/law-of-the-game-on-joystiq-call-the-cops-he-stole-my-cloudsong/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/06/law-of-the-game-on-joystiq-call-the-cops-he-stole-my-cloudsong/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/06/law-of-the-game-on-joystiq-call-the-cops-he-stole-my-cloudsong/#commentsFiled under:

Each week Mark Methenitis contributes Law of the Game on Joystiq, a column on legal issues as they relate to video games:
lolcat
Everyone remembers the now classic "You Stole My Cloudsong!" recording (warning: NSFW). What's less funny, if you're a MMORPG player, is that theft is a real occurrence in MMO worlds. So what happens if someone steals your hard earned gold or items? Do you have any recourse? According to the cops in Minnesota, the answer is no. However, a more progressive look at the issue would suggest that protection for your virtual assets is certainly coming, if it doesn't exist already. In fact, in China, a recent case declared that seizure of virtual assets had actual value with actual recourse. It's an issue that is often discussed at sites like VirtuallyBlind, TerraNova, and (shameless plug in 3-2-1) Law of the Game, among others. Of course, simply lumping in digital theft with ordinary theft is far more complex than one might think.

The baseline question that needs to be answered is: What is theft? According to Black's Law Dictionary (7th Ed.), theft is "the felonious taking and removing of another's personal property with the intent of depriving the true owner of it; larceny." Simple enough, but going back into the common law, many jurisdictions traditionally limited larceny (the root of theft) to tangible personal property. It's only more modern interpretations, especially in the US, that include intangible property in the grander concept of "theft." However, even assuming you can include intangibles in "theft," there are much bigger problems with trying to apply this concept to in-game theft.

Continue reading Law of the Game on Joystiq: Call the cops, he stole my Cloudsong!

JoystiqLaw of the Game on Joystiq: Call the cops, he stole my Cloudsong! originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Feb 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>columnscrimeFinal-Fantasy-XIlawLaw-of-the-GameLaw-of-the-Game-on-JoystiqlegalMMORPGSecond-LifetheftWorld-of-WarcraftWed, 06 Feb 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSP robbery turns deadly]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/06/psp-robbery-turns-deadly/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/06/psp-robbery-turns-deadly/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/06/psp-robbery-turns-deadly/#commentsFiled under:

There's been several stories, even one recently, of people getting their PSPs robbed from them, but this one is, by far, the most disturbing. It appears the robbery began like many others with an unsuspecting youth who was attacked by two older teenagers trying to steal his PSP.

However, when James Felton-Maitland fought off his attackers and fled across the street still holding onto his PSP, he was struck and killed by a truck after sustaining severe head trauma. Now, Jamila Brown and Keith Goa, Jame's attackers, are being charged with second-degree felony murder and strong-arm robbery, according to the Miami Herald.

What's worse is Brown confessed while Goa continues to claim his innocence, despite overwhelming evidence linking him to the crime. The bottom line is that this is a senseless tragedy, but gamers also need to be on the lookout while using their PSPs in public, especially while walking down the street or in less populated areas.

[Via CVG]

JoystiqPSP robbery turns deadly originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Feb 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crimepsp-deathpsp-stolenWed, 06 Feb 2008 09:00:00 EST