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[Michael McDonald arcade stick, for takin' it to the Street Fighters]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/michael-mcdonald-arcade-stick-for-takin-it-to-the-street-fight/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/michael-mcdonald-arcade-stick-for-takin-it-to-the-street-fight/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/michael-mcdonald-arcade-stick-for-takin-it-to-the-street-fight/#comments You're not going to find a better custom PS2 arcade stick with a better picture of a better Doobie Brother.

JoystiqMichael McDonald arcade stick, for takin' it to the Street Fighters originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 18:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcade-stickebayfightstickmichael-mcdonaldTue, 21 Feb 2012 18:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Somebody bid $1,725 for Modern Warfare 3 on eBay]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/somebody-bid-1-725-for-modern-warfare-3-on-ebay/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/somebody-bid-1-725-for-modern-warfare-3-on-ebay/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/somebody-bid-1-725-for-modern-warfare-3-on-ebay/#comments Those Kmart copies of Modern Warfare 3 that slipped off store shelves have been doing big business on eBay, but none bigger than this copy which sold -- four days before its retail release -- for $1,725. Though the buyer's identity is a mystery, considering their abundance of free time, love of the franchise and inability to judge the value of everyday objects, we have to assume it's the either a prankster with too much time on their hands, or the World's Richest Juggalo.

Speaking of record-setters, did you know that the final bidding price technically makes this copy of Modern Warfare 3 the most valuable thing ever sold at Kmart? It's true! Look it up!

[Thanks, Prince.]

JoystiqSomebody bid $1,725 for Modern Warfare 3 on eBay originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Nov 2011 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisioncall-of-duty-modern-warfare-3ebaymicrosoftmodern-warfare-3pcplaystationps3xboxFri, 04 Nov 2011 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Relic Entertainment holds charity auction to mark developer Brian Wood's death]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/relic-entertainment-holds-charity-auction-to-mark-developer-bria/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/relic-entertainment-holds-charity-auction-to-mark-developer-bria/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/relic-entertainment-holds-charity-auction-to-mark-developer-bria/#comments A signed Xbox up for auction to commemorate Brian Wood's death. If you've finished the game, you'll know that Relic Entertainment's recently released Warhammer 40000: Space Marine is dedicated to developer Brian Wood, who passed away in a car accident last year (but not before turning the car so that his pregnant wife would survive the wreck). This week happens to mark the one year anniversary of Wood's death, and to honor him, Relic has started up a set of eBay auctions featuring a number of Space Marine and Relic-related goodies, from signed posters and game copies to even consoles and other promotional items.

Most of the auctions end in about four days on Sunday, and plenty of the items only have a few bids so far. All of the money will go to setting up a memorial bench for Wood in Vancouver, where his wife and now 9-month old daughter live. The company has also set up a memorial trust in his honor, as well as an in-company internship. This auction is a great way to show your support for Wood's legacy, and get some one-of-a-kind Relic gear to boot.

JoystiqRelic Entertainment holds charity auction to mark developer Brian Wood's death originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Sep 2011 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversaryauctionbrian-woodcharityebaymicrosoftpcplaystationps3relic-entertainmentwarhammer-40k-space-marinexboxThu, 08 Sep 2011 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mojang auctioning off custom Minecraft Xperia Play on eBay]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/15/mojang-auctioning-off-custom-minecraft-xperia-play-on-ebay/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/15/mojang-auctioning-off-custom-minecraft-xperia-play-on-ebay/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/15/mojang-auctioning-off-custom-minecraft-xperia-play-on-ebay/#comments Custom-made Minecraft Xperia Play phone
This custom-designed, limited edition Xperia Play phone is being both given away at Gamescom later this week, and auctioned off on Ebay by Mojang to benefit a charity of the Minecraft team's choice. And it's definitely well-designed, from that sweet skin on the device's back to the matching in-game wallpaper.

But as beautiful as the phone is (at least $1,325 of beauty, as of this writing), that's not even the most beautiful thing about it. The real gorgeousness is that someday, someone will be able to build a replica of this phone, using the scene on it, inside the actual game of Minecraft, while using this very phone. It's overwhelming!

JoystiqMojang auctioning off custom Minecraft Xperia Play on eBay originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 15 Aug 2011 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctioncharityebayMinecraftmobilemojangpcsonyMon, 15 Aug 2011 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Massive Final Fantasy collection for sale on eBay]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/25/massive-final-fantasy-collection-for-sale-on-ebay/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/25/massive-final-fantasy-collection-for-sale-on-ebay/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/25/massive-final-fantasy-collection-for-sale-on-ebay/#comments This Final Fantasy collection for sale on eBay is one of the most impressive assemblages of video game titles we've ever seen. Not only are all of the numbered Final Fantasy games brought together by this seller, but almost all of the various spinoffs and versions are included as well. From the very first Final Fantasy cartridge on Famicom up to three different versions of Final Fantasy 8 on the PC -- and even an Advent Children Cloud Black PS3 console bundle.

In short, just buying this collection could set you up as the curator of your own Final Fantasy museum, dedicated to huge swords and great battle themes from throughout the years. The price for such an honor? It's currently sitting at around $15,000, with no bids as of this writing. If that's something you want to invest in, we can only wish you good luck ... and could we borrow a buck?

JoystiqMassive Final Fantasy collection for sale on eBay originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 May 2011 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctioncollectionebayfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-8final-fantasy-xiiirpgsquare-enixWed, 25 May 2011 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Buy BioWare's wares for Japan relief]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/15/buy-biowares-wares-for-japan-relief/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/15/buy-biowares-wares-for-japan-relief/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/15/buy-biowares-wares-for-japan-relief/#comments BioWare games are all about binary moral choices, but you don't have to choose between self-serving behavior and "Paragon" style heroism in real life -- all you need is a ton of money. The developer is auctioning a few custom Dragon Age 2-themed PS3 and Xbox 360 systems, plus a bunch of Mass Effect hoodies signed by BioWare founders Greg Zeschuk and Ray Muzyka.

The auctions all end April 19, and with bids already in the $400-$600 range for the consoles, expect to give a lot of money to the Japanese Red Cross in exchange for one of these collectibles. But shipping is free!

JoystiqBuy BioWare's wares for Japan relief originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Apr 2011 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowaredragon-age-2ebayjapanmicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxFri, 15 Apr 2011 20:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Buy signed Metal Gear Solid games to help Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/23/buy-signed-metal-gear-solid-games-to-help-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/23/buy-signed-metal-gear-solid-games-to-help-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/23/buy-signed-metal-gear-solid-games-to-help-japan/#comments With one simple act, you can help the American Red Cross' efforts in Japan, help your game collection become more amazing, and help Otacon reconcile with his sister. All you need to do is purchasing the Hideo Kojima-autographed copy of Metal Gear Solid 2 that Play for Japan is auctioning off for Red Cross funds. It was donated by Sam Kennedy of 1UP.

Would you prefer a different signed Metal Gear Solid game as a reward for your generous donation? Alex Fraioli is auctioning a Japanese copy of Metal Gear Solid Integral signed by the designer. Andrew Vestal provided a copy of MGS3 signed by Kojima and art director Yoji Shinkawa, bundled with a bunch of press-only bonus items handed out at a Japanese event in 2004.

These are just a few of the items on Play for Japan's auction list. Go bid on stuff! When these charity drives end, bidding on rare game stuff on eBay will once again become a selfish act.

JoystiqBuy signed Metal Gear Solid games to help Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Mar 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charityebaymetal-gear-solidmetal-gear-solid-2metal-gear-solid-3metal-gear-solid-integralplay-for-japanWed, 23 Mar 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xperia Play phones given away at GDC end up on eBay]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/08/xperia-plays-given-away-at-gdc-end-up-on-ebay/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/08/xperia-plays-given-away-at-gdc-end-up-on-ebay/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/08/xperia-plays-given-away-at-gdc-end-up-on-ebay/#comments Sheesh. First the Xperia Play is obtained by the press even before its official announcement, and now the first units to reach the North American public, given away to developers at a GDC panel and raffles last week, are ... wait for it ... being sold on eBay.

That's right -- even weeks before the actual launch, you can't give these things away for free. eBay seller "mejones73-1" doesn't hide the fact that he's one of the developers who won a free phone (and neither does this guy), though the Sony writeup says that a winner named "Mike Jones" just happens to work across the street from their office in Redwood City, CA. Jones might want to be careful in the parking lot this week -- even if he plans to buy another phone with the $730 and rising that his auction is earning, Sony can't be too happy about this one.

[Thanks, Benny!]

JoystiqXperia Play phones given away at GDC end up on eBay originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 Mar 2011 23:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comedyebaygdc2011humormobileplaystationplaystation-phonepspsonyxperia-playTue, 08 Mar 2011 23:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Limited edition Grand Theft Auto PS3 now up on eBay]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/03/limited-edition-grand-theft-auto-ps3-now-up-on-ebay/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/03/limited-edition-grand-theft-auto-ps3-now-up-on-ebay/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/03/limited-edition-grand-theft-auto-ps3-now-up-on-ebay/#comments You've already got an impressive GTA memorabilia collection, including that Vice City retail stand-up and actual warrant for your arrest for Grand Theft Auto -- however, if you need a crown jewel, check out this Episodes from Liberty City-branded, limited edition PS3 Slim on eBay.

Continue reading Limited edition Grand Theft Auto PS3 now up on eBay

JoystiqLimited edition Grand Theft Auto PS3 now up on eBay originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Feb 2011 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctionebayGrand-Theft-Auto-4GTA4playstationps3rockstarThu, 03 Feb 2011 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The XToaster360 can be yours, for enough bread]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/03/the-xtoaster360-can-be-yours-for-enough-bread/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/03/the-xtoaster360-can-be-yours-for-enough-bread/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/03/the-xtoaster360-can-be-yours-for-enough-bread/#comments We were tempted to make a joke about avoiding the unnecessary risk of overheating your Xbox 360 when we saw this video for Nick Carouso's "XToaster360" -- a toaster gutted and turned into a custom console -- but that's a little stale. The case mod is currently up for auction on eBay with a starting bid of $150 ... so we're assuming there's no Valhalla inside. (There's also no hard drive -- just the ability to use USB thumb drives.)

While the XToaster is still pretty neat, what with its blue LEDs and novelty factor, there are a couple of other issues with the design: For one, it doesn't actually make toast. Also, Carouso kept the disc drive horizontal, missing the opportunity to insert a game through one of the toaster's bagel-accommodating slots. Maybe he was worried about it ejecting early -- or worse: jamming?

Continue reading The XToaster360 can be yours, for enough bread

JoystiqThe XToaster360 can be yours, for enough bread originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 03 Jan 2011 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>case-modcustomebaymicrosoftmodmodsnick-carousotoasterxboxMon, 03 Jan 2011 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Name two of Slam Bolt Scrappers' scrappers in Child's Play auctions]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/19/name-two-of-slam-bolt-scrappers-scrappers-in-childs-play-aucti/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/19/name-two-of-slam-bolt-scrappers-scrappers-in-childs-play-aucti/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/19/name-two-of-slam-bolt-scrappers-scrappers-in-childs-play-aucti/#comments Without the help of special potions, unguents or spells, immortality is a pretty tricky thing to obtain. Fire Hose Games is offering a pretty rare opportunity to have your genius brain live forever: The studio is auctioning off the chance to name one of the characters in its upcoming downloadable tower defense/action title Slam Bolt Scrappers, one-hundred percent of the proceeds from which will go to Child's Play. A second character's naming rights will be sold off during the Child's Play Charity Dinner in Seattle on December 7 -- tickets for which are still available!

There are some limitations, of course. You can't name the characters anything inappropriate, copyright-infringing or too long, so, sorry, Boner MacBurgerKing, but you'll never be a real person. Not ever.

JoystiqName two of Slam Bolt Scrappers' scrappers in Child's Play auctions originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Nov 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctionchilds-playebayfire-hose-gamesplaystationps3psnslam-bolt-scrappersFri, 19 Nov 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not interested in a 360 Slim? How about this rare, 2005 launch model?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/17/xbox-360-2005-launch-model-rare/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/17/xbox-360-2005-launch-model-rare/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/17/xbox-360-2005-launch-model-rare/#comments Around this time each year, we find ourselves buying peculiar things -- fruit cakes and pine trees and ... Madagascar Kartz -- but we never expected we'd have a chance to buy a new Xbox 360 ... from 2005! Not just any old '05 360, mind you, but a 2005 Launch Team console -- available to bid on (in Australian dollars!) on eBay.

As noted in the auction listing, the launch consoles were only given to folks "intimately involved in designing the console," and the one in question is still functioning, surprisingly. ("The console was last used around September or October of 2008 and was reading discs and playing games fine before being packed away," the listing claims.)

We might normally warn against the danger of buying a launch Xbox 360 given the ubiquity of that model's failure rate, but we're guessing this baby's gonna get mounted on a wall somewhere rather than actually be expected to play games. At least, we're hoping ... for your sake, you crazy person who wins the auction.

[Thanks, Godot]

JoystiqNot interested in a 360 Slim? How about this rare, 2005 launch model? originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Nov 2010 16:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2005-launch-consoleauctionebaylaunch-teammicrosoftxboxWed, 17 Nov 2010 16:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Reach for your wallet and bid on Emile's helmet for charity]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/17/reach-for-your-wallet-and-bid-on-emiles-helmet-for-charity/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/17/reach-for-your-wallet-and-bid-on-emiles-helmet-for-charity/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/17/reach-for-your-wallet-and-bid-on-emiles-helmet-for-charity/#comments Looking for a fashion statement that says, "Hey, I'm potentially violent, but I've also got a big, sweet heart?" Look no further than this Good-Game-Media eBay auction: a replica of the Halo: Reach helmet worn by Emile; the proceeds from which go to Child's Play and the Brian Wood Memorial Trust.

Continue reading Reach for your wallet and bid on Emile's helmet for charity

JoystiqReach for your wallet and bid on Emile's helmet for charity originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Nov 2010 15:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctionbrian-wood-memorial-trustbungiecharitychilds-playebayHalo-ReachmicrosoftxboxWed, 17 Nov 2010 15:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Grab some signed gaming gear in Brian Wood Memorial Trust auction]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/07/grab-some-signed-gaming-gear-in-brian-wood-memorial-trust-auctio/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/07/grab-some-signed-gaming-gear-in-brian-wood-memorial-trust-auctio/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/07/grab-some-signed-gaming-gear-in-brian-wood-memorial-trust-auctio/#comments If you're looking to acquire some gaming paraphernalia signed by some of the people responsible for the crafting of said games, a batch of recent eBay auctions from vendor GoodGameMedia will let you do so -- while also supporting an incredibly worthy cause. All of the money you spend on these items will be split between Child's Play and the Brian Wood Memorial Trust, a fund to help support the family of the Company of Heroes lead developer who died in an unimaginably tragic car accident earlier this year.

Go check out the 30 pieces of biddable memorabilia on the vendor's eBay hub. Some of those would make pretty wonderful (and karmically positive) gifts for the upcoming holidays, don'tchaknow.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in!]

JoystiqGrab some signed gaming gear in Brian Wood Memorial Trust auction originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 07 Nov 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctionbrian-woodbrian-wood-memorial-trustcharityebaymemorabiliaSun, 07 Nov 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Night Trap's original cover art for sale on eBay]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/20/night-traps-original-cover-art-for-sale-on-ebay/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/20/night-traps-original-cover-art-for-sale-on-ebay/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/20/night-traps-original-cover-art-for-sale-on-ebay/#commentsHave you ever dreamed of having the original cover art from a video game hanging on your wall? How about the original cover art from Digital Pictures' Sega CD vampire-hunting game, Night Trap? If so, passion burns and danger calls you to eBay where, for around $250 (the current bid), you can own the 15" by 25" painting used for the Sega CD box, retrieved from Sega of America's art department.

If you're not sure whether you want this real gaming history for yourself, mull it over while you watch Night Trap's party scene, after the break.

Continue reading Night Trap's original cover art for sale on eBay

JoystiqNight Trap's original cover art for sale on eBay originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Oct 2010 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artdigital-picturesebaynight-trapretrosegasega-cdWed, 20 Oct 2010 09:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Now you can own a giant Halo: Reach statue for some reason]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/18/now-you-can-own-a-giant-halo-reach-statue-for-some-reason/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/18/now-you-can-own-a-giant-halo-reach-statue-for-some-reason/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/18/now-you-can-own-a-giant-halo-reach-statue-for-some-reason/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Whether you need it for home security reasons, or whether you're just a collector of man-sized gaming memorabilia, a super limited edition Halo: Reach statue, modeled after Noble Team's Captain Carter, can be yours if you've got the wherewithal to win this pricey eBay auction.

Continue reading Now you can own a giant Halo: Reach statue for some reason

JoystiqNow you can own a giant Halo: Reach statue for some reason originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Oct 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctionbungieebayHalo-ReachmemorabiliamicrosoftMicrosoft-Game-StudiosstatuexboxMon, 18 Oct 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[NES signed by gaming industry superstars auctioning off for charity]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/15/nes-signed-by-gaming-industry-superstars-auctioning-off-for-char/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/15/nes-signed-by-gaming-industry-superstars-auctioning-off-for-char/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/15/nes-signed-by-gaming-industry-superstars-auctioning-off-for-char/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We can't help but notice that there's something wrong with your Nintendo Entertainment System. No, it's not that its connector pins are totally jacked after two decades of rough cartridge insertion -- it's that it isn't covered, toe to tip, in the autographs of some of the gaming, tech and general nerd industry's most prominent figures.

You can rectify that problem by bidding on this NES, which has been signed by folks like Penny Arcade's Mike Krahulik and Jerry Holkins, Wil Wheaton, MC Frontalot, Jonathan Coulton and many, many more. All the proceeds from the auction go to the Baystate Children's Hospital in Springfield, Mass. -- as do the proceeds from eBay user DanMckela's other auctions. Go take a look at his altruistic wares!

[Thanks, Dao Jones!]

JoystiqNES signed by gaming industry superstars auctioning off for charity originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Oct 2010 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctioncharityebayJonathan-CoultonMC-Frontalotnesnintendopenny-arcadewil-wheatonFri, 15 Oct 2010 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[You can buy your own SNES retail display unit]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/27/you-can-buy-your-own-snes-retail-display-unit/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/27/you-can-buy-your-own-snes-retail-display-unit/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/27/you-can-buy-your-own-snes-retail-display-unit/#comments An eBay user by the name of rifaavalon recently tipped us off to an item of interest that's currently on his storefront: An SNES retail display unit. This relic comes with an illuminated case, a monitor, a console and two built-in controllers -- but no games. (We're sure you have some lying around.)

Continue reading You can buy your own SNES retail display unit

JoystiqYou can buy your own SNES retail display unit originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 27 Sep 2010 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctionebaynintendosnessuper-nintendoMon, 27 Sep 2010 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Auctioned Atari game may be rarer than Stadium Events]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/02/auctioned-atari-game-may-be-rarer-than-stadium-events/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/02/auctioned-atari-game-may-be-rarer-than-stadium-events/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/02/auctioned-atari-game-may-be-rarer-than-stadium-events/#commentsWith all the attention over boxed copies of the NES game Stadium Events, this eBay auction for a boxed copy of the Atari 2600 game Air Raid seems even more noteworthy than it might otherwise ... not that it needs any help. Already considered one of the hardest-to-find 2600 games, a boxed copy of the game has never been found. Until now.

AtariAge forum member Tanner claims to be the original owner of this copy of Air Raid, even offering specifics of the location and date of its purchase. For the last couple of decades, it's been quietly hanging out in his garage, being awesome. After reading an article on CNN, he realized what he had and put the cartridge on eBay; later, when he found the box, he cancelled the original auction and relisted it. It's currently going for $6,500.

Even if you don't plan to bid on Air Raid, you should really look through the auction images. The box, with the rainbow logo of its publisher "Men-A-Vision" and its thrilling back-of-the-box text, is entirely worth seeing. "Can you save Manhattan from your loan command post?"

[Via GameSetWatch]

JoystiqAuctioned Atari game may be rarer than Stadium Events originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Apr 2010 17:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>air-raidatari-2600auctionebaymen-a-visionrareretroFri, 02 Apr 2010 17:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Stadium Events auction hits an unbelievable $800K]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/02/stadium-events-auction-hits-an-unbelievable-800k/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/02/stadium-events-auction-hits-an-unbelievable-800k/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/02/stadium-events-auction-hits-an-unbelievable-800k/#comments
[VGMuseum]
First, a mom hit the jackpot when one of the random games she was selling with an old NES turned out to be Bandai's super-rare Stadium Events, which went on eBay for $13.105. Following the excitement about that auction, someone else sold their sealed copy of the NES exercise game (which you've most likely played under its other name, World Class Track Meet) for a staggering $41,300. And then it got ridiculous.

Seller acuraboi12's sealed Stadium Events reached a high bid of $800,200. Unfortunately for acuraboi12, we doubt that's anything but a joke bid. We may be in the midst of an odd Stadium Events gold rush, but that is beyond excessive, considering that the previous $41,300 was the highest known price commanded by an NES game to date. Not even Bubble Bath Babes could command $800k, and it's got nudity.

[Thanks, NiteOwl]

JoystiqStadium Events auction hits an unbelievable $800K originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Mar 2010 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctionbandaiDSebayNintendoretrostadium-eventsWiiTue, 02 Mar 2010 10:45:00 EST<![CDATA[StarCraft 2 beta keys being auctioned for around $300]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/20/starcraft-2-beta-keys-being-auctioned-for-around-300/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/20/starcraft-2-beta-keys-being-auctioned-for-around-300/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/20/starcraft-2-beta-keys-being-auctioned-for-around-300/#comments We've received a ton of emails asking how one might get up on the StarCraft 2 beta if they didn't apply for access last year. Kotaku recently turned our attention to a possible solution, though ... well, you're not going to like it. More than 50 beta keys, most of which came in the form of coupons handed out at BlizzCon 2008, are now being auctioned off on eBay. The prices range from around $120 on the low end, averaging out at about $300, and reaching as high as $450.

If you're as independently wealthy as you are impatient, this may be your only channel for instant gratification. Of course, keep a watchful eye out for scammers, and keep in mind that purchasing Battle.Net accounts linked to World of Warcraft accounts is against Blizzard's Terms of Use. We'd also advise you to take a good look into that deep, dark, truthful mirror, and think about all the other things $300 can buy. (Hint: It can buy a lot of things.)

JoystiqStarCraft 2 beta keys being auctioned for around $300 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 20 Feb 2010 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activision-blizzardauctionbetablizzardebaystarcraftstarcraft-2strategySat, 20 Feb 2010 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Into the Pixel goes into the auction on eBay]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/16/into-the-pixel-goes-into-the-auction-on-ebay/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/16/into-the-pixel-goes-into-the-auction-on-ebay/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/16/into-the-pixel-goes-into-the-auction-on-ebay/#comments Hey, you remember the Into the Pixel exhibit at last year's E3, right? Oh, no, that's right, they don't allow the plebes in. Had you been lucky enough to grace it with your stares, you'd have found a "jury-curated exhibition of video game art created by published video and computer game artists." And now that very same art can be found gracing the pages of eBay, as the Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences has opened up bidding on a smattering of pieces (starting yesterday and running through February 20).

Featuring art from games like Flower and Fable 2, the proceeds will help to fund the AIAS' scholarship programs. The bidding has most certainly begun, though most pieces remain at their initial $100 opening bid as of publishing. If you're looking to snap up one of these snappy pieces, we'd suggest you get bidding sooner rather than later!

JoystiqInto the Pixel goes into the auction on eBay originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 16 Feb 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>academy-of-interactive-arts-and-sciencesActionaiasartauctionDSebayfable-2Flowerinto-the-pixelLionheadLionhead-StudiosMGSMicrosoftMicrosoft-Game-StudiosNintendoPSNRPGSCEASonySony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericaThatGameCompanyWiixblaXbox-360Tue, 16 Feb 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Some guy is selling his Steam account on eBay]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/16/some-guy-is-selling-his-steam-account-on-ebay/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/16/some-guy-is-selling-his-steam-account-on-ebay/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/16/some-guy-is-selling-his-steam-account-on-ebay/#comments
 We think this is interesting for two reasons:

  1. This is actually the first post we've ever written about some guy selling his Steam account
  2. We can't believe someone would actually want to get rid of their Steam account
So, yeah, eBay user dave311freak is trying to unload his massive Steam collection (139 titles strong) onto whoever's willing to fork over the most cash for it. As it stands, nobody's actually dropped a bid on the auction, so we're not sure he'll be successful in this venture. Head past the break for a video rundown of some highlights from dude's collection.

[Thanks, Terry]

Continue reading Some guy is selling his Steam account on eBay

JoystiqSome guy is selling his Steam account on eBay originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 16 Jan 2010 00:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ebaysteamvalveSat, 16 Jan 2010 00:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Ben Heck's PS3 Slim laptop going for broke on eBay]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/03/ben-hecks-ps3-slim-laptop-going-for-broke-on-ebay/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/03/ben-hecks-ps3-slim-laptop-going-for-broke-on-ebay/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/03/ben-hecks-ps3-slim-laptop-going-for-broke-on-ebay/#comments If you're an extremely nomadic gamer with a couple of grands in the bank to spare, you might be interested to learn that Ben Heck's ultra slick PS3 Slim laptop is now up for grabs on eBay. As you might remember, the portable-ized device was originally purchased by gaming retailer The Score, then raffled off to one of the shop's customers. Now that customer is selling it on eBay. We certainly hope that, at some point, somebody will play the damn thing. Please, if you've got the extra $2,000, won't you give this poor creature a permanent, loving home?

[Via Engadget]

JoystiqBen Heck's PS3 Slim laptop going for broke on eBay originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 03 Jan 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctionben-heckebayexpensivemodportableps3-laptopps3-slimSun, 03 Jan 2010 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Parody for charity: Retro Matt Hazard stuff on eBay]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/17/parody-for-charity-retro-matt-hazard-stuff-on-ebay/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/17/parody-for-charity-retro-matt-hazard-stuff-on-ebay/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/17/parody-for-charity-retro-matt-hazard-stuff-on-ebay/#comments
click to go down Fake Memory Lane in our galleryThe best part of the Matt Hazard series, in our opinion, is the part that doesn't exist -- the fake retro series which the new games pretend to reboot. While the classic Matt Hazard games aren't precisely real, you can now buy the cartridges on eBay. To benefit Child's Play, D3 is selling mockup Hazard memorabilia, including nonfunctional game cartridges and functional Haz-Matt Carts shirts -- and, of course, slap bracelets -- in four simultaneous auctions.

It's kind of the opposite of digital distribution: instead of getting a game without physical media, delivered over the internet, you'll get cartridges with no game inside through the mail.

Gallery: Matt Hazard promo items

JoystiqParody for charity: Retro Matt Hazard stuff on eBay originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 Dec 2009 02:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charityebaymatt-hazardmatt-hazard-blood-bath-and-beyondMicrosoftparodyretroXbox-360Thu, 17 Dec 2009 02:25:00 EST<![CDATA[The effects of re-releases on classic game pricing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/16/the-effects-of-re-releases-on-classic-game-pricing/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/16/the-effects-of-re-releases-on-classic-game-pricing/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/16/the-effects-of-re-releases-on-classic-game-pricing/#commentsIn a survey of (presumably) eBay prices for rare and collectible games, MTV Multiplayer's Jason Cipriani illustrates what re-releases of these games do to their resale value -- and, by association, to the people who hoard these game for profit. As it turns out, re-releasing rarities like Dracula X affects game collectors negatively in the same way it affects normal people positively -- by making the games more easily available, thus driving down the cost of copies in the original format. Won't someone please think of the jerks trying to make a profit from their rare games?

To use another Castlevania example, Castlevania Chronicles: Cipriani found a three-year high price of $70 for the 2001 PlayStation release in 2007. Two years later, after the game's release on PlayStation Network, physical copies dropped to a low price of $26.93. The people who just wanted to play the game could now get it for six bucks, leaving the PS1 discs for collectors only.

It's not as simple as a re-release dropping the value globally, however: the data shows some weirdly fluctuating prices, like Persona 2: Eternal Punishment on PlayStation, which seems to have gone up in price significantly following a reissue. Perhaps interest rose when buyers got the idea that it was even possible to buy an old Atlus game.

JoystiqThe effects of re-releases on classic game pricing originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 23:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>castlevania-chroniclescollectingdracula-x-chroniclesebaykonamiportretroWed, 16 Dec 2009 23:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Uncharted 2 Fortune Hunter Edition hits eBay, costs a (wait for it) fortune]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/13/uncharted-2-fortune-hunter-edition-hits-ebay-costs-a-wait-for/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/13/uncharted-2-fortune-hunter-edition-hits-ebay-costs-a-wait-for/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/13/uncharted-2-fortune-hunter-edition-hits-ebay-costs-a-wait-for/#comments Wait, wait, wait! Tell us you haven't already purchased Uncharted 2 on this, the day of its release! Oh, you haven't! Great. Why purchase the boring ol' standard edition of the game when you could just as easily purchase the ultra limited Fortune Hunter Edition on eBay. Sure, it's $2,990 more expensive than the regular edition, but it comes with a dagger which will unlock ancient, wondrous portals to treasures untouched by human hands for a millennium. So, you know, the cost should be fairly easy to recoup.

Gallery: Uncharted 2: Among Thieves (2/3/09)

JoystiqUncharted 2 Fortune Hunter Edition hits eBay, costs a (wait for it) fortune originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Oct 2009 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctionebayfortune-hunter-editionuncharteduncharted-2Tue, 13 Oct 2009 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Money can buy you a custom Beatles: Rock Band Xbox 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/08/money-can-buy-you-a-custom-beatles-rock-band-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/08/money-can-buy-you-a-custom-beatles-rock-band-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/08/money-can-buy-you-a-custom-beatles-rock-band-xbox-360/#commentsYou have two options for getting your hands on one of these custom-designed Beatles: Rock Band Xbox 360 consoles. You can either offer the winning bid on the unit being auctioned by Microsoft -- which has a current high bid of $680, with almost ten days to go -- or you can purchase the 360-exclusive downloadable version of "All You Need is Love" and be automatically entered into a drawing to win one. Of course, the costlier eBay method has better odds!

Whichever method you use, all of the proceeds will go to Doctors Without Borders. That makes you a hero for trying to win a prize or playing a song in a video game!

Gallery: The Beatles: Rock Band Xbox 360 console

beatles-xbox-1

JoystiqMoney can buy you a custom Beatles: Rock Band Xbox 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charitycustomdoctors-without-bordersebayMicrosoftthe-beatles-rock-bandXbox-360Tue, 08 Sep 2009 18:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Other Xbox 360s Palin comparison to this one, up for $1.1 million]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/06/other-xbox-360s-palin-comparison-to-this-one-up-for-1-1-millio/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/06/other-xbox-360s-palin-comparison-to-this-one-up-for-1-1-millio/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/06/other-xbox-360s-palin-comparison-to-this-one-up-for-1-1-millio/#comments Former presidential candidate ... vice-presidential, really? Could have fooled us. Anyway, former vice-presidential candidate Sarah Palin saw fit to grant a man her autograph on an Xbox 360 and now he's selling it on eBay for ...

One billion dollars (dramatic music)

No, but the actual figure is almost as ludicrous at $1.1 million. And for that price, you're not even getting an Elite, just a plain ol' Pro -- which may be a collector's item soon anyways. Perhaps, if the gentleman sells the item, he'll be a very supportive donor to Palin's expected 2012 presidential bid. Yes he can.

[Via adn.com; Thanks, ganung]

JoystiqOther Xbox 360s Palin comparison to this one, up for $1.1 million originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Aug 2009 11:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ebayMicrosoftpalinpoliticssarah-palinXbox-360Thu, 06 Aug 2009 11:24:00 EST<![CDATA[LittleBigPlanet pod replica making eBay a bit more adorable]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/04/littlebigplanet-pod-replica-making-ebay-a-bit-more-adorable/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/04/littlebigplanet-pod-replica-making-ebay-a-bit-more-adorable/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/04/littlebigplanet-pod-replica-making-ebay-a-bit-more-adorable/#comments
This seems like one of those things that, when a Sony representative sees it, it elicits a sharp forehead smack, accompanied by the following exclamation: "Why didn't I think of that?" A clever eBay user known as "thegroovygamer" recently put a lovingly crafted LittleBigPlanet pod replica on the virtual auction block. Of course, it wouldn't be an exact replica without two additional items: A DualShock 3 controller, and a little Sackboy to inhabit it.

We would have bought an armful of these bundles had Sony released them in the thick of LittleBigPlanet fever last fall. Oh, heck -- we'd buy an armful now. Just throw in a few sticker sheets, and we'll get out our checkbooks.

[Thanks, Corey!]

JoystiqLittleBigPlanet pod replica making eBay a bit more adorable originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 Aug 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dualshock3ebaylbplittlebigplanetmedia-moleculereplicasackboyTue, 04 Aug 2009 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Time runs out for Zelda-esque chicken strip auction]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/06/time-runs-out-for-zelda-esque-chicken-strip-auction/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/06/time-runs-out-for-zelda-esque-chicken-strip-auction/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/06/time-runs-out-for-zelda-esque-chicken-strip-auction/#commentsOne Zelda fan discovered that McDonalds had selected a very special Chicken Selects strip for him: one that bears a resemblance to the Ocarina of Time from, well, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. The one on the right is the chicken strip -- we know it can be hard to tell the two near-identical images apart. After holding the treasure aloft and singing the classic Zelda "You Found an Item" fanfare (we are approximately 100% certain this happened), the lucky owner of the magical instrument ... -shaped chicken strip decided to share his good fortune. By putting it on eBay.

Despite starting bidding at a reasonable (for a legendary artifact) $25, nobody bid on 0iz0's auction for some old food. Now what is he to do? How does one dispose of something like this?

[Thanks, George!]

JoystiqTime runs out for Zelda-esque chicken strip auction originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 Jul 2009 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chicken-selectsebaymcdonaldsocarina-of-timezeldaMon, 06 Jul 2009 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Rare PlayStation Home goodies go for big bucks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/01/rare-playstation-home-goodies-go-for-big-bucks/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/01/rare-playstation-home-goodies-go-for-big-bucks/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/01/rare-playstation-home-goodies-go-for-big-bucks/#comments
GameZine did some snooping around eBay recently, and found some of the more rare PlayStation Home items were going for a surprising amount of money. Two examples were presented in an InFamous reaper costume that sold for $30 (that's like 18 Slurpees) and a Killzone 2 Helghast outfit that went for -- you may want to brace your hindquarters for this one -- a whopping $66. That is more than the frakkin' game!

So, Joystiq has come up with a plan:
  1. Create a Joystiq-themed Home space (there may be some minor kidnapping of designers involved, but we'll flesh that out later)
  2. Make sure it is the only one in existence
  3. ???
  4. Profit
Fool-proof plan, doncha think?

JoystiqRare PlayStation Home goodies go for big bucks originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctionebayhomeinfamouskillzone-2Wed, 01 Jul 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Own a patent application for a rock-paper-scissors video game for just $90,000]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/29/own-a-patent-application-for-a-rock-paper-scissors-video-game-fo/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/29/own-a-patent-application-for-a-rock-paper-scissors-video-game-fo/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/29/own-a-patent-application-for-a-rock-paper-scissors-video-game-fo/#commentsA visionary named Ivan Allen has broken ground in two ways: first, he has applied for a patent on an online multiplayer rock-paper-scissors game for Xbox Live Arcade and PlayStation Network, and second, he has put the application on eBay. He's set up the eBay account "videogamepatentseller," so it seems likely he's planning to do this again.

Now, before you get too excited about spending $90,000 (or more, if there's a bidding war) on the rights to an online rock-paper-scissors game, notice that the auction is for a provisional patent application, and not an awarded patent. If you want to own that patent, you'll still have to file a non-provisional patent application before February of 2010 (one year after the filing of the first application). So, really, you're buying the possibility of getting a patent on the idea, maybe. The perfect Christmas gift!

[Thanks, Luis B.]

JoystiqOwn a patent application for a rock-paper-scissors video game for just $90,000 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Jun 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ebayMicrosoftpatentpatent-applicationrock-paper-scissorsXbox-360Mon, 29 Jun 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[eBay selling 12 months of Xbox Live for $27.99]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/27/ebay-selling-12-months-of-xbox-live-for-27-99/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/27/ebay-selling-12-months-of-xbox-live-for-27-99/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/27/ebay-selling-12-months-of-xbox-live-for-27-99/#comments
eBay is running another one of its daily deals, this time offering 12+1 months of Xbox Live Gold membership for the very reasonable price of $27.99. Compare that to the full price of $49.99, and we don't have to tell you how appealing this deal is. So, if you're going to take the plunge, act now. The deal ends Jun 28, at 8AM PDT.

[Thanks, Bikram!]

JoystiqeBay selling 12 months of Xbox Live for $27.99 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 27 Jun 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dealebayMicrosoftsaleXbox-360xbox-livexbox-live-membershipSat, 27 Jun 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomorrow's eBay deal: Xbox Live 12-month subscription]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/22/tomorrows-ebay-deal-xbox-live-12-month-subscription/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/22/tomorrows-ebay-deal-xbox-live-12-month-subscription/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/22/tomorrows-ebay-deal-xbox-live-12-month-subscription/#comments
If you're coming dangerously close to renewal time for your Xbox Live Gold subscription, then you may want to keep an eye on eBay. The online auction site provided a sneak peek at tomorrow's deal earlier today, and it's set to offer the subscription card as its daily deal tomorrow.

The exact sale price has not been revealed, though. Hopefully it'll be something a bit more substantial than a few bucks off, and, if that's the case, we'll be sure to let you know.

JoystiqTomorrow's eBay deal: Xbox Live 12-month subscription originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 22 Jun 2009 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dealdealsebayxbox-livexbox-live-subscriptionMon, 22 Jun 2009 10:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo convinces eBay and Amazon to ban DS flashcarts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/22/nintendo-convinces-ebay-and-amazon-to-ban-ds-flashcarts/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/22/nintendo-convinces-ebay-and-amazon-to-ban-ds-flashcarts/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/22/nintendo-convinces-ebay-and-amazon-to-ban-ds-flashcarts/#commentsNintendo has announced that it has reached an agreement with Amazon and eBay through which the shopping sites will prohibit the sale of the R4 and other DS flashcarts.

"Nintendo is pleased with the co-operation it has received from both eBay and Amazon to prevent the sales of game copying devices," Nintendo's global head of anti-piracy, Jodie Daughtery told MCV. eBay has actually pulled auctions for copying devices for years (presumably as an "item encouraging illegal activity), so if there is a policy update, it involves even more vigilant policing of auctions.

Amazon UK games director Chris Poad told MCV that Amazon has a "notice and take down" process for its third-party Marketplace. "So where a third party believes that their IP has been infringed, they can highlight it and we can take it down. This is what happened in the case of the R4."

Now Nintendo just has the rest of the Internet to deal with in its efforts to curtail DS piracy (and, as an extremely unfortunate side effect, homebrew).

JoystiqNintendo convinces eBay and Amazon to ban DS flashcarts originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 May 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonDSebayflashcarthomebrewNintendopiracyr4Fri, 22 May 2009 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Earthbound auction ends at a sky-high price]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/05/earthbound-auction-ends-at-a-sky-high-price/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/05/earthbound-auction-ends-at-a-sky-high-price/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/05/earthbound-auction-ends-at-a-sky-high-price/#comments A recent auction for a new-in-box copy of Earthbound revealed a level of Earthbound fandom rivaling Starmen.net (of which the high bidder was probably a frequent visitor!) The boxed SNES game, originally acquired by eBay seller dave2236 for $25, ended up selling for $1,025.01, or 128.17 times what a Virtual Console download would cost.

The big cardboard box that Earthbound came in was never "factory sealed" in the traditional sense, so unlike most "sealed" games, it would be possible to (carefully) open and play this game and look through the player's guide without causing any physical damage. But we can guarantee that will not happen.

[Via GoNintendo]

JoystiqEarthbound auction ends at a sky-high price originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 May 2009 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>earthboundebayretrosnesTue, 05 May 2009 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Rare autographed Nintendo swag up for bid]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/21/rare-autographed-nintendo-swag-up-for-bid/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/21/rare-autographed-nintendo-swag-up-for-bid/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/21/rare-autographed-nintendo-swag-up-for-bid/#comments
Collectors, listen up: One Nintendo-loving eBay user has dug through his/her Nintendo collection and decided to give up a few rare (and autographed) collectibles. Included in the auction are four gold and black N64 controllers (won during a Star Fox tournament) signed by legendary developer Shigeru Miyamoto and ex-Nintendo president Minoru Arakawa. The auction also includes a copy of Next Generation magazine signed by Miyamoto and Arakawa as well as former Nintendo executives Howard Lincoln, Peter Main and others.

It isn't the sexiest auction available but at $21.48 (as of press time) it may be the cheapest way to grab classic Nintendo autographs... or at least a half-dozen N64 controllers.

[Thanks, Charles P.]

JoystiqRare autographed Nintendo swag up for bid originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Apr 2009 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctionebayn64rareshigeru-miyamotoTue, 21 Apr 2009 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[OTX planning box office-style tracking of games market]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/08/otx-planning-box-office-style-tracking-of-games-market/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/08/otx-planning-box-office-style-tracking-of-games-market/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/08/otx-planning-box-office-style-tracking-of-games-market/#comments
One more sign we're moving towards a world where marketing for all media is intrinsically tied together? OTX Research today announced plans for video game market tracking, firing a warning shot over the bows of GameSpot's Trax service and IGN's GamerMetrics, not to mention NPD and EEDAR. Rather than offering various metrics based on target audiences (in the case of IGN and GameSpot) or retail sales numbers which exclude a variety of alternate purchasing options (in the case of NPD and EEDAR), OTX plans to track online retailers and has brokered a deal with GameFly and AERS (eBay data handler).

"We range from people who spend three hours a week on Yahoo Games to people who spend 50 hours a week on Xbox Live," OTX's director of gaming Nick Williams told The Cut Scene, referencing the company's data gathering methods. OTX has been interviewing large sections of folks that play games, mirroring the model used by the film and television industry. OTX also says it's looking to move into other media, combining the research found in games with film and television to predict sales trends across multiple entertainment mediums. "You can look at that model and say, 'Don't launch game X when movie Y is opening.' Because all these things are interconnected now." Or at least they will be, Mr. Williams. These things do take time, after all, so you'll excuse us if we don't hold our breath.

JoystiqOTX planning box office-style tracking of games market originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Apr 2009 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aersebayeedargameflym16marketingmetricsnick-williamsnpdotx-researchxbox-liveWed, 08 Apr 2009 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Impress your friends and test your controllers with rare NES cartridge]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/30/impress-your-friends-and-test-your-controllers-with-rare-nes-car/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/30/impress-your-friends-and-test-your-controllers-with-rare-nes-car/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/30/impress-your-friends-and-test-your-controllers-with-rare-nes-car/#commentsBack in 1988 or so, some guy working in an "authorized Nintendo repair center" saw this yellow cartridge as nothing more than a tool, just another part of his mundane everyday routine of testing the functionality of NES systems. In 2009, it's an extremely rare collectible being sold on eBay for $1,050.

This NES Joystick Test Cartridge is, functionally, a rather unexciting item: it merely responds on-screen to controller input, allowing the user to determine whether all of a controller's buttons work. It's the sheer scarcity of these items, as well as the lure of owning NES memorabilia that was never made available to consumers, that drives the price up.

If you buy this and decide you aren't done blowing cash, why not collect more NES test carts? There are cartridges for controller ports, Power Pads, an NTF2 cartridge that tests the various microchips, and even yellow-cartridge versions of Duck Hunt and The Legend of Zelda (which happens to be available for just $999).

[Via Engadget]

JoystiqImpress your friends and test your controllers with rare NES cartridge originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 Mar 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSebayjoystick-testnesnes-test-cartridgeNintendoWiiMon, 30 Mar 2009 11:00:00 EST