Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Konami and Autumn Games sued for fraud over $15 million Def Jam Rapstar loan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/konami-and-autumn-games-sued-for-fraud-over-15-million-def-jam/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/konami-and-autumn-games-sued-for-fraud-over-15-million-def-jam/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/konami-and-autumn-games-sued-for-fraud-over-15-million-def-jam/#comments ImageCity National Bank has sued Konami and Autumn Games for millions over allegations of fraud. Courthouse News reports the bank hasn't received any return on a $15 million line of credit it approved to the defendants, and in court documents claims the financial conditions of Autumn and Konami "were false at the time they were made and that defendants never had any intention of repaying the loan as promised."

"Rather than paying game-related proceeds directly to CNB as agreed, defendant have kept all game-related proceeds for themselves and have refused to remit any such proceeds to CNB."

City National Bank is seeking over $8.9 million in damages for "fraud, negligent misrepresentation, breach of contract, breach of covenant of good faith and fair dealing, money had and received, unjust enrichment, recovery of personal property, and punitive damages."

This isn't the first lawsuit the game has spawned. In March, EMI Music Group filed suit against Def Jam Rapstar creators 4mm Games and Terminal Reality, claiming the game contains unlicensed tracks by several artists.

JoystiqKonami and Autumn Games sued for fraud over $15 million Def Jam Rapstar loan originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 May 2012 10:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autumn-gamesCity-National-BankDef-Jam-Rapstarfraudkonamilawsuitmicrosoftplaystationps3xboxThu, 24 May 2012 10:40:00 EST<![CDATA[EMI sues Def Jam Rapstar creators]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/31/emi-sues-def-jam-rapstar-creators/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/31/emi-sues-def-jam-rapstar-creators/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/31/emi-sues-def-jam-rapstar-creators/#comments EMI Music Group has filed a suit against Def Jam Rapstar creators 4mm Games and Terminal Reality, claiming the game contains unlicensed tracks from Kanye West, Lil Wayne, DMX and more, and uses unlicensed compositions from DJ Khaled, MIMS and Daft Punk.

According to statements given to The Hollywood Reporter, EMI demanded royalties from the game makers but never received a response. EMI is looking for compensation on 54 songs from Def Jam Rapstar's total tracklist, and with EMI looking for upwards of $150,000 for each "infringement" that total tab is looking mighty steep. In the worst case, that brings us to total of $8.1 million.

The karaoke aspect of Def Jam Rapstar, and its online video-sharing capabilities, also make this dispute trickier, since EMI owns the rights to display, publicly perform and distribute these songs. Please excuse us while we try to get Richard a good lawyer in case EMI targets us next.

JoystiqEMI sues Def Jam Rapstar creators originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 31 Mar 2012 01:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4mm-gamesdaft-punkDef-Jam-Rapstardj-khaleddmxemiemi-musicemi-music-groupkanye-westkonamilawsuitlil-waynemicrosoftmimsplaystationps3sueterminal-realityxboxSat, 31 Mar 2012 01:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon celebrates PS3 price drop with discounted games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/21/amazon-celebrates-ps3-price-drop-with-discounted-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/21/amazon-celebrates-ps3-price-drop-with-discounted-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/21/amazon-celebrates-ps3-price-drop-with-discounted-games/#comments
The temptation was just too much. Even with the car payment, the mortgage, and the hospital bills from having your squeedlyspooch removed, you still couldn't resist dropping the tantalizingly reasonable 250 clams for a new PlayStation 3. And who can blame you? We went out and bought a second PS3 that we have absolutely no use for, it was that enticing of a proposition.

But now that you've got the system, these tough economic times have left you with very little money for actual games. What's a gamer like you to do? You can't even sell your squeedlyspooch on the black market.

Thankfully, Amazon has your back, as they have both recognized and seized the opportunity to get that skrill provide valuable savings by shoveling a big ol' pile of discounted PS3 titles in your face. The sale is an eclectic mix, to be certain: Bulletstorm and Def Jam Rapstar aren't often mentioned in the same sentence, for instance, and while some titles may be better than others, this still seems like a good way to get some use out of your new console.

JoystiqAmazon celebrates PS3 price drop with discounted games originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 21 Aug 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AmazonBulletstormDef-Jam-Rapstarfinal-fantasy-13final-fantasy-xiiiNierplaystationps3Sun, 21 Aug 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Def Jam Rapstar adds Kinect support, drops price]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/23/def-jam-rapstar-adds-kinect-support-drops-price/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/23/def-jam-rapstar-adds-kinect-support-drops-price/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/23/def-jam-rapstar-adds-kinect-support-drops-price/#commentsTwo interesting updates have been released for Def Jam Rapstar. We'll start with the news most likely to be useful: the game's cheaper now. Publisher Konami announced that the MSRP has dropped to $39.99 for the standalone game; a quick look at Amazon shows that the microphone bundle has an MSRP of $49.99 -- and both are a couple of bucks cheaper on Amazon right now.

For those of you who already have it on Xbox 360 or plan to pick it up, you'll now be able to use the Kinect to record video for upload to the community, thanks to a new patch. However, one thing that hasn't been updated is how you look rapping at your TV. Sorry!

JoystiqDef Jam Rapstar adds Kinect support, drops price originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Dec 2010 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4mm-gamesDef-Jam-Rapstarkinectkonamimicrosoftnintendoplaystationprice-cutps3wiixboxThu, 23 Dec 2010 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Def Jam Rapstar competition offers record deal to UK flow masters]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/02/def-jam-rapstar-competition-offers-record-deal-to-uk-flow-master/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/02/def-jam-rapstar-competition-offers-record-deal-to-uk-flow-master/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/02/def-jam-rapstar-competition-offers-record-deal-to-uk-flow-master/#comments Atlantic Records UK has teamed up with Def Jam Rapstar to give one lucky UK resident a chance to spit hot fire all over his or her very own record. By employing the game's freestyle mode, contestants will upload their hottest 40 bars (give or take) to be judged by the Def Jam Rapstar community website's membership.

The top regional finalists will then have to compete in front of a live audience at UK HMV locations, "8 Mile style," next February. What this means, of course, is that the winner will have said the most egregiously offensive thing about the other contestants' mothers, resulting in a crowd-wide "OOOOOHHHHHH SNAPPPPPPP."

Ten word stylists who survive that round will then proceed to a central London event where "a panel of Hip-Hop / Music aficionados" will parse who's best. We're getting ourselves pumped up for the competition starting right now by putting Dizzee Rascal's "Fix Up Look Sharp" on permanent repeat.

Continue reading Def Jam Rapstar competition offers record deal to UK flow masters

JoystiqDef Jam Rapstar competition offers record deal to UK flow masters originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Dec 2010 17:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4mm-gamesDef-Jam-Rapstarkonamimicrosoftplaystationps3united-kingdomxboxThu, 02 Dec 2010 17:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Wu Tang Clan brings the mother-hugging ruckus to Def Jam Rapstar]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/09/wu-tang-clan-brings-the-mother-hugging-ruckus-to-def-jam-rapstar/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/09/wu-tang-clan-brings-the-mother-hugging-ruckus-to-def-jam-rapstar/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/09/wu-tang-clan-brings-the-mother-hugging-ruckus-to-def-jam-rapstar/#comments You might feel compelled to following along with the salty language present in the newest batch of DLC for Def Jam Rapstar, featuring the works of Wu Tang Clan and its composite members -- however, it's just as easy to censor yourself in the midst of a fiery rap. So many words rhyme with the F, S, D, B, and A bombs dropped by Ghostface Killah, Method Man, Redman and Raekwon, you know? A timely "truck," "pit," "ma'am," "hitch" or "glasshole" can spell the difference between a TV-MA performance and a TV-PG performance.

Check out the list of new DLC for the 360 version of the game, including "Protect Ya Neck," "Ice Cream" and "How High" -- as well as the PS3 version's DLC (which is actually the 360 version's DLC from last week) -- after the jump.

Continue reading Wu Tang Clan brings the mother-hugging ruckus to Def Jam Rapstar

JoystiqWu Tang Clan brings the mother-hugging ruckus to Def Jam Rapstar originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Nov 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4mm-gamesDef-Jam-Rapstardlcmicrosoftplaystationps3xboxTue, 09 Nov 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hulk Hogan's old balls are in this Def Jam Rapstar ad]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/03/hulk-hogan-old-balls-are-in-this-def-jam-rapstar-ad/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/03/hulk-hogan-old-balls-are-in-this-def-jam-rapstar-ad/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/03/hulk-hogan-old-balls-are-in-this-def-jam-rapstar-ad/#comments An important note to the Def Jam Rapstar marketing team, regarding the ad you'll find after the break:

When a schizophrenic, liquor-soaked homeless man smashes into your conference room and shouts, "Just show Hulk Hogan rapping with his old balls fully out there and everything! Also, Jimmy Hart, Mouth of the South, have him a-movin' and a-shaking nearby! Coo-poo-pa-loo!" the proper response is to call security.

The wrong thing to do is thoughtfully stroke your chin and say, "Well, maybe if we censored the old balls?"

Sincerely,
Joystiq

[Update: OK, so apparently they're not. We're not sure if we're more or less horrified. Thanks, Gary.]

Continue reading Hulk Hogan's old balls are in this Def Jam Rapstar ad

JoystiqHulk Hogan's old balls are in this Def Jam Rapstar ad originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Nov 2010 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>def-jamDef-Jam-Rapstarhulk-hoganmicrosoftplaystationps3xboxWed, 03 Nov 2010 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Kanye, Clipse, LL Cool J tracks (and more!) available for Def Jam Rapstar]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/28/kanye-clipse-ll-cool-j-tracks-and-more-available-for-def-ja/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/28/kanye-clipse-ll-cool-j-tracks-and-more-available-for-def-ja/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/28/kanye-clipse-ll-cool-j-tracks-and-more-available-for-def-ja/#comments 4mm Games has fired off yet another gigantic salvo of downloadable tracks for Def Jam Rapstar, all of which are available now on Xbox Live and "soon" on PSN. The 27 new sing-along songs and four Freestyle beats will run players 160 Microsoft Points ($2) a piece -- a pittance, when you consider the immeasurable joy which selections like "Rapper's Delight," "Can't Tell Me Nothing," and "Ice Cream Paint Job" will deliver unto their owners.

Check out the full list of new songs after the jump.

Continue reading Kanye, Clipse, LL Cool J tracks (and more!) available for Def Jam Rapstar

JoystiqKanye, Clipse, LL Cool J tracks (and more!) available for Def Jam Rapstar originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Oct 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4mm-gamesDef-Jam-Rapstardlcmicrosoftplaystationps3xboxThu, 28 Oct 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free Weezy ... album with purchase of Def Jam Rapstar at Best Buy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/11/free-weezy-album-with-purchase-of-def-jam-rapstar-at-best-bu/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/11/free-weezy-album-with-purchase-of-def-jam-rapstar-at-best-bu/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/11/free-weezy-album-with-purchase-of-def-jam-rapstar-at-best-bu/#comments Best Buy's got a rather appropriate incentive to shore up purchases of Def Jam Rapstar from tomorrow until Tuesday, October 19: Anyone who purchases the title during that week gets a free copy of Lil' Wayne's recently released album, "I Am Not A Human Being."

Continue reading Free Weezy ... album with purchase of Def Jam Rapstar at Best Buy

JoystiqFree Weezy ... album with purchase of Def Jam Rapstar at Best Buy originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Oct 2010 15:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4mm-gamesbest-buyDef-Jam-Rapstarlil-waynemicrosoftplaystationps3xboxMon, 11 Oct 2010 15:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Def Jam Rapstar: The complete tracklist]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/29/def-jam-rapstar-tracklist/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/29/def-jam-rapstar-tracklist/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/29/def-jam-rapstar-tracklist/#commentsFiled under: , ,

There's sad news for true rap fans today as we bring you the final seven songs to be included in Def Jam Rapstar:
  • Beastie Boys - "Brass Monkey"
  • Kanye West - "Stronger"
  • Lil' Kim - "Crush On You"
  • Notorious B.I.G. - "Big Poppa"
  • Rob Base - "It Takes Two
  • Snoop Dogg - "Gin and Juice"
  • Soulja Boy Tell'em - "Turn My Swag On"
Yes, we're excited to see "Gin and Juice," "Big Poppa" and "Stronger," but we can't help but feel depressed when realizing that we'll never get to test our rap holes out on classics like "Pirate Rap," "Math Rap" and, of course, "That's How I Beat Shaq." See the full list of disappointments after the break.

Oh well. Wake us when that MC Scat Kat DLC drops.

Continue reading Def Jam Rapstar: The complete tracklist

JoystiqDef Jam Rapstar: The complete tracklist originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Sep 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4mm-gamesDef-Jam-Rapstarkonamimicrosoftnintendoplaystationps3wiixboxWed, 29 Sep 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pull up your pants and check out these new Def Jam Rapstar tracks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/09/new-def-jam-rapstar-tracks/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/09/new-def-jam-rapstar-tracks/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/09/new-def-jam-rapstar-tracks/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Def Jam Rapstar gets another 7 tracks deeper today, adding cuts by Busta Rhymes, DMX, Fat Joe, Ja Rule, Lil' Jon and Twista to the official track listing, in addition to another "oldie" by Public Enemy. As with all songs in the game, these will be edited versions, though it's as yet unclear if the censoring suits have finally caught on to the meaning of Lil' Jon's insistence that we all "skeet, skeet" on ... the windows and walls, is it?

Of course, players will be invited to invent their own catchy hooks in Freestyle Mode, which today adds a trio of beats from DJ Premiere, Bangladesh and Just Blaze, who has contributed the appropriately dubbed "8 Bit" production. Check out the full update and a new video promo after the break.

Gallery: Def Jam Rapster (boxart and screens)

Continue reading Pull up your pants and check out these new Def Jam Rapstar tracks

JoystiqPull up your pants and check out these new Def Jam Rapstar tracks originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Sep 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4mm-GamesDef-JamDef-Jam-RapstarKonamimicrosoftnintendoplaystationps3track-listingtrackswiixboxThu, 09 Sep 2010 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Def Jam Rapstar tracks make it considerably hotter in herre]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/05/new-def-jam-rapstar-tracks-make-it-considerably-hotter-in-herre/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/05/new-def-jam-rapstar-tracks-make-it-considerably-hotter-in-herre/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/05/new-def-jam-rapstar-tracks-make-it-considerably-hotter-in-herre/#commentsFiled under: , ,

To quote world-renowned poet and philosopher Nelly: "Good gracious, these tracks are bodacious." Only, well, he doesn't say tracks. He says something else entirely, as you'll likely see upon your first playthrough of Def Jam Rapstar -- a recently announced batch of songs for the rhythm title include Nelly's seminal summer hit "Hot in Herre," alongside similarly beloved jams from Nas, Method Man, Public Enemy and more.

Check out the full list of new tracks for the title posted after the jump. Also, and we're not trying to start a fuss, but -- we're still waiting on "Parents Just Don't Understand." Don't let us down, Def Jam.

Gallery: Def Jam Rapstar (8/5/10)

Continue reading New Def Jam Rapstar tracks make it considerably hotter in herre

JoystiqNew Def Jam Rapstar tracks make it considerably hotter in herre originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Aug 2010 15:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4mm-gamesdef-jamDef-Jam-Rapstarkonamimicrosoftnintendoplaystationps3wiixboxThu, 05 Aug 2010 15:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Def Jam Rapstar track listing adds Tribe, Pun, Luda and more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/08/def-jam-rapstar-track-listing-adds-tribe-pun-luda-and-more/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/08/def-jam-rapstar-track-listing-adds-tribe-pun-luda-and-more/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/08/def-jam-rapstar-track-listing-adds-tribe-pun-luda-and-more/#commentsFiled under: , ,

4mm Games went digging in the crates and pulled out some infectious tracks for the latest update to the Def Jam Rapstar roster. The seven additions, spanning nearly two decades, feature classics and more recent hits, from A Tribe Called Quest's "Scenario" to Big Pun's "Still Not a Player" onto Ludacris' "Stand Up." But does it get any more buck wild than Onyx's "Slam?" (Warning: Backdafucup when that joint comes on.)

Additionally, 4mm Games has announced that the game's freestyle mode will feature "exclusive" instrumentals by producers Cool & Dre and DJ Khalil -- as if the main sing-along mode wasn't already designed to expose the living room MC who has no business in the rap game.

Check out the complete list of revealed tracks after the break.

Gallery: Def Jam Rapstar (7/8/10)

Continue reading Def Jam Rapstar track listing adds Tribe, Pun, Luda and more

JoystiqDef Jam Rapstar track listing adds Tribe, Pun, Luda and more originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Jul 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4mm-GamesDef-Jamdef-jam-interactiveDef-Jam-RapstarKonamimicrosoftnintendoplaystationps3track-listingtrackswiixboxThu, 08 Jul 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Preview: Def Jam Rapstar]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/16/preview-def-jam-rapstar/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/16/preview-def-jam-rapstar/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/16/preview-def-jam-rapstar/#comments
Essentially everything you need to know about Def Jam Rapstar's gameplay can be seen in the video after the break, in which I square off with Def Jam Enterprises' James Waller. If throwing your dignity out the window and throwing down in a singing contest is your idea of a good time -- and it is for me -- you'll have a lot of fun with Rapstar. Incidentally, the game features more than just rap; pretty much anything in the hip hop / R&B realm is fair game. 4mm Games marketing director Devin Winterbottom told me that Def Jam secured rights for over 200 tracks from various labels -- including Aftermath, Death Row, Sony and Warner -- and the plan is to release weekly DLC after the game launches later this year.

Gallery: Def Jam Rapstar (E3 2010)

Continue reading Preview: Def Jam Rapstar

JoystiqPreview: Def Jam Rapstar originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Jun 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4mm-gamesDef-Jam-Rapstare3-2010Konamimicrosoftnintendoplaystationps3Terminal-RealitywiixboxWed, 16 Jun 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Def Jam Rapstar visited by surprise musical guest]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/16/def-jam-rapstar-visited-by-surprise-musical-guest/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/16/def-jam-rapstar-visited-by-surprise-musical-guest/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/16/def-jam-rapstar-visited-by-surprise-musical-guest/#comments
One week ago:

Joystiq's Andrew Yoon: Are you any good at rapping?

Me: What? No.

Andrew: Good, I just scheduled an appointment for you to try Def Jam Rapstar at E3.

One week later, having vigorously studied Biz Markie's "Just a Friend," I can present you with the video after the break. Big thanks must go to Def Jam Enterprises' James Waller for rapping along with me and enduring my glaring whiteness.

Continue reading Def Jam Rapstar visited by surprise musical guest

JoystiqDef Jam Rapstar visited by surprise musical guest originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Jun 2010 15:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4mm-GamesDef-Jam-Rapstare3-2010Konamimicrosoftnintendoplaystationps3Terminal-RealitywiixboxWed, 16 Jun 2010 15:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Method Man and Redman to blow up the mic at E3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/10/method-man-and-redman-to-blow-up-the-mic-at-e3/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/10/method-man-and-redman-to-blow-up-the-mic-at-e3/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/10/method-man-and-redman-to-blow-up-the-mic-at-e3/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Method Man and Redman are teaming up to make E3 feel 'dis, with the rap duo set to make an appearance at the show on behalf of Def Jam Rapstar. They'll be doing some of their hits live for conference goers at the Konami booth on Wednesday, June 16 at 4 p.m. PDT. Frankly, we can't imagine a better way to go through E3 than hearing "Cereal Killer" blast throughout the convention center.

Def Jam Rapstar busts a funky rhyme on October 5.

JoystiqMethod Man and Redman to blow up the mic at E3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Jun 2010 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4mm-GamesDef-JamDef-Jam-Rapstare3E3-2010KonamiMusicRhythmThu, 10 Jun 2010 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[October 5 is a good day to release Def Jam Rapstar]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/03/october-5-is-a-good-day-to-release-def-jam-rapstar/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/03/october-5-is-a-good-day-to-release-def-jam-rapstar/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/03/october-5-is-a-good-day-to-release-def-jam-rapstar/#commentsFiled under: , ,


"I even saw the lights of the Goodyear Blimp, and it read 'click to open the gallery.'"
Konami has announced release dates for Def Jam Rapstar, the Def Jam game that is actually about rapping and not about rappers beating one another unconscious. 4mm Games' karaoke title will be released on October 5 in North America, with each game/microphone bundle retailing for $69.99 on PS3 and Xbox 360, and $59.99 on Wii. The game will be out "the week of November 2, 2010" in Europe.

The company also announced that Primo and Just Blaze will provide background for the game's Freestyle Mode. For less creative types, seven more songs were added to the tracklist, including total classics "Just a Friend," "It Was a Good Day," and, in what is guaranteed to create awkward fun at parties, Salt-n-Pepa's "Push It." Push it real good past the break to see all the additions.

Continue reading October 5 is a good day to release Def Jam Rapstar

JoystiqOctober 5 is a good day to release Def Jam Rapstar originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Jun 2010 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4mm-GamesDef-JamDef-Jam-RapstarKonamimicrosoftMusicnintendoplaystationps3Release-DatewiixboxXbox-360Thu, 03 Jun 2010 11:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Def Jam Rapstar dropping exclusive tracks on Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/19/def-jam-rapstar-dropping-exclusive-tracks-on-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/19/def-jam-rapstar-dropping-exclusive-tracks-on-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/19/def-jam-rapstar-dropping-exclusive-tracks-on-europe/#comments It's only fitting that Def Jam Rapstar will include exclusive tracks for Europe -- the birthplace of rap. Wait -- what? You heard that right, but before we explain, let's go over the exclusive tracks by region:
  • UK -- Tinie Tempah's "Pass Out" and Dizzee Rascal's "Fix Up, Look Sharp"
  • France -- NTM featuring Lord Ko's "Ma Benz" and Sefyu's "Molotov 4"
  • Germany -- Sido's "Mein Block (Beathoavenz remix)" and Kool Savas's "Futurama"
So, about that rap origin story: Modern rap actually originated during the mid-70s in a suburb of Munich, Germany known as Freising. The heavy beats and lyrical dexterity of the genre were perfected in a small parking lot near the Brennergasse by a group of former tuba players who'd practice weekly after hitting the Weihenstephaner a bit too hard. True story. We swear ...

... Fingers crossed.

JoystiqDef Jam Rapstar dropping exclusive tracks on Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 May 2010 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4mm-gamesdef-jamdef-jam-rapstardizzee-rascaleuropekonamikool-savaslord-koMicrosoftNintendontmrapsefyusidotinie-tempahWiiXbox-360Wed, 19 May 2010 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Def Jam Rapstar distributed by Konami this fall]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/08/def-jam-rapstar-distributed-by-konami-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/08/def-jam-rapstar-distributed-by-konami-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/08/def-jam-rapstar-distributed-by-konami-this-fall/#comments A little less than a year after the game was officially revealed, Def Jam Rapstar finally has a distributor and a release window. Konami revealed that it will be bringing the Rakimulator to junior MCs on Wii, 360 and PS3 this fall. We only know a handful of the game's 40+ songs, but we've listed what we know right after the break.

A tip for the future rappers this game inspires: When trying to appear "hard" amongst your colleagues and the subject of paying dues arises, admitting that you got your start "on the streets of Def Jam Rapstar" probably isn't going to win you any brownie points. And if there's one thing that holds sway in the rap industry, it's brownie points.

Gallery: Def Jam Rapstar

Continue reading Def Jam Rapstar distributed by Konami this fall

JoystiqDef Jam Rapstar distributed by Konami this fall originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Apr 2010 09:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4mm-gamesautumn-gamesdef-jam-rapstarkonamiMicrosoftNintendorelease-dateWiiXbox-360Thu, 08 Apr 2010 09:05:00 EST<![CDATA[New Def Jam Rapstar screens still not impressing us]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/28/new-def-jam-rapstar-screens-still-not-impressing-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/28/new-def-jam-rapstar-screens-still-not-impressing-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/28/new-def-jam-rapstar-screens-still-not-impressing-us/#comments
click to Rapstar-size

We've seen nearly nothing of Def Jam Rapstar since we got a chance to check it out at E3 this year, though today 4mm passed along a handful of new screens. Here's the thing: It's more of the same stuff we've already seen. A couple screens do offer a glimpse at the community features and user video upload features, but the majority just give us more shots of menus or points screens.

We like hip hop, we even like some rap -- with that in mind, we're left wondering what Def Jam and 4mm are thinking by showing off Young Jeezy and T.I. instead of Notorious B.I.G.'s 'Hypnotize' or even Pete Rock & CL Smooth's "T.R.O.Y." (both of which were playable at E3), two songs that actually highlight major rap stars. While we wait for more info on the game, we'll remain hopeful that Def Jam Rapstar will become something more than SingStar Mostly Pop Rap.

Gallery: Def Jam Rapstar

JoystiqNew Def Jam Rapstar screens still not impressing us originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 28 Aug 2009 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4mm4mm-gamesdef-jamdef-jam-rapstarMicrosoftNintendonotorious-bigrapstarscreenshotsWiiXbox-360young-jeezyFri, 28 Aug 2009 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Neversoft would like to add turntable support to Guitar Hero]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/12/neversoft-would-like-to-add-turntable-support-to-guitar-hero/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/12/neversoft-would-like-to-add-turntable-support-to-guitar-hero/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/12/neversoft-would-like-to-add-turntable-support-to-guitar-hero/#comments During E3, we got to check out the folks from FreeStyleGames playing DJ Hero -- Activision's upcoming rhythm/music game -- using blasphemous guitar controllers in-tandem with the ubiquitous plastic turntable (seen above). While Activision is still keeping mum on whether or not the ability to use guitars in all tracks of the game (none the less vocals) will be shipping with DJ Hero, apparently the folks working on the game think including their turntable in Guitar Hero titles "Sounds like a great idea!"

In fact, both the DJ Hero team and Neversoft (developers of the Guitar Hero franchise) seem open to the idea of cross-game instrument implementation (say that three times fast). GH director Brian Bright told Eurogamer, "We would love to integrate in the future," speaking to the cross-franchise possibilities with each game's respective peripheral. So if we can use a turntable, have a group of folks on various instruments, and get someone spitting hot fire into a mic, what's the point of Def Jam Rapstar again?

JoystiqNeversoft would like to add turntable support to Guitar Hero originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Jun 2009 21:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionbrian-brightdef-jam-rapstardj-heroeurogamerfreestylegamesguitar-heroguitar-hero-5MicrosoftneversoftNintendopcWiiXbox-360Fri, 12 Jun 2009 21:15:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009 highlights: The Xbox roundup]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/12/e3-2009-highlights-the-xbox-roundup/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/12/e3-2009-highlights-the-xbox-roundup/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/12/e3-2009-highlights-the-xbox-roundup/#comments E3 was brütal! If you blinked, for a split/second, you missed something. Even if you were trine to keep up, it was a blur -- staying a.wake like that, you only pushed yourself to the brink of your own dark void. That's where Joystiq comes in; to crackdown on the madness; to reach out ... with conviction -- phew! Crysis averted.

We've scoured the dark corners and survived the inferno to piece together this roundup of all things Xbox at E3. Why? Just 'cause we love you. So, draw nier and shift your eyes past the break.

Continue reading E3 2009 highlights: The Xbox roundup

JoystiqE3 2009 highlights: The Xbox roundup originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Jun 2009 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alan-wakearmy-of-two-the-40th-dayassassins-creed-2avataravatarsbatman-arkham-asylumbayonettaBethesdaBethesda-Game-StudiosBethesda-Softworksbioshock-2blurbooth-tourbrinkbrutal-legendcastlevania-lords-of-shadowcrackdown-2crysis-2dancedancerevolutiondantes-infernodark-cornersdark-voiddarksidersddrdef-jam-rapstardirt-2dj-herodragon-age-originse3-2009eaEA-CanadaEA-Sportsea-sports-mmaElectronic-Artsfacebookfairytale-fightsfallout-3fight-night-round-4Fightingfinal-fantasy-xiiiforza-3front-missiongames-on-demandgametrak-freedomgears-of-war-2guitar-hero-5halo-3-odsthalo-reachhuxleyjoy-ridejust-cause-2konamilast-fmleft-4-dead-2lego-rock-bandlost-planet-2mafia-2marvel-vs-capcom-2mass-effect-2metal-gear-solid-risingmicrosoftmilommamodern-warfare-2need-for-speed-shiftnetflixniernxeoperation-flashpoint-dragon-risingoverlord-2point-lookoutproject-natalraven-squadroundupRPGrusesamurai-showdown-edge-of-destinysection-8shadow-complexsingularitysplinter-cell-convictionsplosion-manSportssqueeballssummer-of-arcadesupreme-commander-2tekken-6the-beatles-rock-bandthe-saboteurTMNT-Turtles-in-Time-Re-Shelledtony-hawk-ridetrials-hdtrinetwitterubisoftwarriors-legends-of-troywolfensteinxblaXboxXbox-360xbox-avatarsxbox-livexbox-live-partyxbox-video-marketplacezephyr-rise-of-the-elementalszune-videoFri, 12 Jun 2009 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Overheard@E3: Get off that mic, Rapstar!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/overheard-e3-get-off-that-mic-rapstar/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/overheard-e3-get-off-that-mic-rapstar/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/overheard-e3-get-off-that-mic-rapstar/#comments
"Internally, we used that as the architectural model of how not to do this game" -- Paul Coyne, Executive Vice President of 4mm Games on (the comically terrible) Get On Da Mic versus Def Jam Rapstar.

JoystiqOverheard@E3: Get off that mic, Rapstar! originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Jun 2009 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4mm4mm-gamesdef-jam-rapstaroverheardThu, 04 Jun 2009 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Voice-on: Def Jam Rapstar]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/02/voice-on-def-jam-rapstar/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/02/voice-on-def-jam-rapstar/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/02/voice-on-def-jam-rapstar/#comments
(click to Biggie size)
Earlier today, we spent nearly an hour with newly-formed 4mm's Def Jam Rapstar, doing our best to not totally embarrass ourselves while rapping a couple of the seven "maybe final" tracks included in the demo (after the break). While the game hits a woefully underserved demographic with the rap/hip-hop community, what we saw of the still very early in-development game didn't leave us feeling ecstatic.

Between the SingStar style gameplay (music video in the background) while lyrics stream across the screen, the You're in the Movies style video creation/editing feature and the Halo 3 style community features, we didn't find a whole lot about the game -- other than its theme -- to get excited about. Though we've been assured by 4mm that the game is still rather early, and before it's "Winter" release window, a lot still has to be polished, we're sticking with the alternatives for the time being.

Gallery: Def Jam Rapstar

Continue reading Voice-on: Def Jam Rapstar

JoystiqVoice-on: Def Jam Rapstar originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Jun 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4mmdef-jam-interactivedef-jam-rapstare3-2009MicrosoftXbox-360Tue, 02 Jun 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Interview: 4mm raps with us about Def Jam Rapstar]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/interview-4mm-raps-with-us-about-def-jam-rapstar/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/interview-4mm-raps-with-us-about-def-jam-rapstar/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/interview-4mm-raps-with-us-about-def-jam-rapstar/#comments When Rockstar founders Jamie King and Gary Foreman announced plans to start up a new company earlier this month, even the clairvoyant among us were taken aback by the pair's plans to take on an already bloated music game genre with an entry of their own. However, that appears to be exactly what the newly founded 4mm Games is up to, and together with Def Jam Interactive and with considerable backing from investment firm CEA Autumn Games, Def Jam Rapstar was born.

While 4mm is keeping much of the game's details safely away from the mic until E3, Joystiq recently caught up with company CEO Nicholas Perrett backstage to talk about Def Jam Rapstar, as well as what else the company has planned and the reason behind calling the studio "4mm."

Continue reading Interview: 4mm raps with us about Def Jam Rapstar

JoystiqInterview: 4mm raps with us about Def Jam Rapstar originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 May 2009 23:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4mm4mm-gamesdef-jam-rapstare3-2009image-metricsinterviewFri, 29 May 2009 23:25:00 EST<![CDATA[4mm unveils Def Jam Rapstar]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/28/4mm-unveils-def-jam-rapstar/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/28/4mm-unveils-def-jam-rapstar/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/28/4mm-unveils-def-jam-rapstar/#comments Ask anyone who knows us: Joystiq understands hip-hop culture. So does the recently-revealed 4mm which today unveiled its maiden project: Def Jam Rapstar, a trailer for which we've nestled lovingly after the break. How do you know it's speaking to the hip-hop community so well with its new rapping game? Because CEO Nicholas Perrett manages to use the phrases "games that live long beyond the box," "MMO-esque," "long tail" and "game-like" in a single paragraph of the announcement story. Street? Street.

As for actual gameplay, we know only that it will include rapping. We'll let you know more at E3.

[Thanks, Storm Eagle]

Continue reading 4mm unveils Def Jam Rapstar

Joystiq4mm unveils Def Jam Rapstar originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 May 2009 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4mm4mm-GamesDef-JamDef-Jam-RapstarMicrosoftMusicNintendoWiiXbox-360Thu, 28 May 2009 15:15:00 EST