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[BlizzCon 2010: Diablo 3 Q&A panel highlights]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/24/blizzcon-2010-diablo-3-qanda-panel-highlights/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/24/blizzcon-2010-diablo-3-qanda-panel-highlights/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/24/blizzcon-2010-diablo-3-qanda-panel-highlights/#comments On the second day of the BlizzCon, a handful of members of the Diablo 3 development team, lead by game director Jay Wilson, sat down to answer questions from BlizzCon attendees. There were a lot of questions asked, and a few nuggets of useful and intriguing information gleaned. Let's take a look at some of the highlights.

Continue reading BlizzCon 2010: Diablo 3 Q&A panel highlights

JoystiqBlizzCon 2010: Diablo 3 Q&A panel highlights originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 24 Oct 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardblizzcon-2010cow-leveldiablodiablo-3economyendgameesportsjay-wilsonpcpvepvpq-and-aSun, 24 Oct 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fable 3 preview: It's the economy, stupid]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/15/fable-3-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/15/fable-3-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/15/fable-3-preview/#commentsFable 3 gold If you played Fable 2 anything like the way I played Fable 2, you ended the game a very, very, very rich player. Why work a virtual job pouring cold beers when you could buy a piece of virtual property, turn off your Xbox, pour yourself an actual cold one (or 10), and when you come to in the morning, you're dehydrated and groggy -- oh, and you've been earning rent money in-game, too?

That feature -- the ability to earn rental income while away from the game -- went a long way towards making Fable 2's Albion feel like a living world; one that went on regardless of whether or not your hero was there to see it. That feature won't be returning for Fable 3. "It was a Fable 2 feature," Lionhead lead designer Josh Atkins tells Joystiq. "With every feature, we spend a lot of time reevaluating new things that make sense for the emotions we want to impact and get from players in Fable 3."

Gallery: Fable 3 (economy)

Continue reading Fable 3 preview: It's the economy, stupid

JoystiqFable 3 preview: It's the economy, stupid originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Oct 2010 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>economyFable-3Josh-AtkinsLionhead-StudiosmicrosoftMicrosoft-Game-StudiosxboxFri, 15 Oct 2010 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ngmoco acquires iPhone game dev Freeverse]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/24/ngmoco-acquires-iphone-game-dev-freeverse/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/24/ngmoco-acquires-iphone-game-dev-freeverse/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/24/ngmoco-acquires-iphone-game-dev-freeverse/#comments Despite a still-wavering economy (and industry-wide layoffs), Neil Young's ngmoco has just bought up large Brooklyn-based iPhone game developer Freeverse. Gamasutra talked to both ngmoco and Freeverse, who (expectedly) had nothing but sugary kisses to throw at each other. "We've been thinking about how to accelerate our strategic growth though acquisitions of companies and intellectual property, and Freeverse was really at the top of our list," said Neil Young. Meanwhile, vice president of Freeverse Colin Lynch Smith described the relationship between his company and Young's as "like the perfect dating situation." Now things are really steaming up!

The ngmoco head further describes his company's goal in the purchase as, "to acquire the companies we think have the right blend of talent and DNA and intellectual property we think will work well in the freemium space," echoing comments he made recently on why Rolando 3 never got to roll around on our iPhones. With plans to reach out to developers with the Plus+ SDK (the company's social networking service) in the coming weeks and an outwardly aggressive strategy to pursue the free-to-play market, ngmoco certainly has plenty on its plate in 2010.

JoystiqNgmoco acquires iPhone game dev Freeverse originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Feb 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acquisitionApplecolin-lynch-smitheconomyfree-to-playfreemiumfreeverseiPodneil-youngngmocoplus+rolando-3Wed, 24 Feb 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rebellion's Derby studio on the verge of shutting down]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/23/rebellions-derby-studio-on-the-verge-of-shutting-down/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/23/rebellions-derby-studio-on-the-verge-of-shutting-down/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/23/rebellions-derby-studio-on-the-verge-of-shutting-down/#comments Echoing grim sentiments made earlier this year, Rebellion Studios' CEO Jason Kingsley recently told Develop that the Derby branch of Rebellion that birthed Lara Croft (previously at Core Design) may not be around for too much longer. "It's quite likely that [the Derby studio] won't be kept intact in the way it did, but that individual consultancy period is not over yet," he said. He's concerned, however, with that fact that "no one has stepped up" to purchase the ailing third branch of Rebellion Studios. "We would obviously like someone to, but no one has done so as yet."

When we reached out to our contacts at the studio, we were unfortunately met with no response as of publishing. Kingsley revealed that Rebellion otherwise is in the "mid-stages" of "two big projects," and reiterates that "nothing's been decided yet" for the Derby offices. As always, if you are a member or representative of the studio in question, don't hesitate to contact us if you'd like to clarify.

JoystiqRebellion's Derby studio on the verge of shutting down originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Feb 2010 15:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aliens-vs-predatorderbyeconomyfiringjason-kingsleylara-croftlayoffsrebellionrebellion-derbyrebellion-studiosukTue, 23 Feb 2010 15:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Execs from the big three weigh in on the current console cycle]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/15/execs-from-the-big-three-weigh-in-on-the-current-console-cycle/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/15/execs-from-the-big-three-weigh-in-on-the-current-console-cycle/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/15/execs-from-the-big-three-weigh-in-on-the-current-console-cycle/#comments In the five-ish years since the Xbox 360 launched, ushering in the current console generation, we've heard a whole mess of talk about this console life cycle pushing past the usual five-ish years they tend to span. Given that we're approaching the mark as we speak, MCV talked to execs from the big three and got an update on where each stands in terms of new hardware in the coming year(s). "The benefit of hardware remaining relevant for longer is the fact that it gives more developers a chance to get the very best and most out of current generation systems, rather than the cycle changing just as people have become used to maximizing a console's performance and abilities," says senior product manager at Nintendo UK Rob Lowe. "We strongly believe that there is still huge potential for both Wii and DS to continue to bring in new gamers and change rejecters' perceptions." Watch your back, rejecters!

Perhaps unsurprisingly at this point, Sony and Microsoft corroborate Lowe's claims, with VP of Sony Worldwide Studios Michael Denny adding, "Of course new hardware causes a large spike in consumer interest, but so does the launch of new, exciting games ... Modern Warfare 2 didn't need new hardware to break all the records." And with two new motion ... things coming to Sony and Microsoft's consoles -- not to mention the worldwide economy still struggling to recover from a near-meltdown -- we have to imagine that we won't be seeing any new $400 to $600 hardware anytime soon.

But hey, there's always 3D to take our money, right?

JoystiqExecs from the big three weigh in on the current console cycle originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 15 Feb 2010 14:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dconsole-lifecycleDSeconomymichael-dennymicrosoftmodern-warfare-2nintendorob-lowesonyWiiXbox-360Mon, 15 Feb 2010 14:41:00 EST<![CDATA[UK retailers confident in strong 2010 games sales]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/12/uk-retailers-confident-in-strong-2010-games-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/12/uk-retailers-confident-in-strong-2010-games-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/12/uk-retailers-confident-in-strong-2010-games-sales/#comments
[Image Source]
In a survey of 93 UK retailers who sell games -- conducted by MCV -- a surprising 91 percent said that they have a positive outlook for 2010 when it comes to, well, sales of games and game-related goods. More near-term, out those surveyed, 48 percent expect more income from games this holiday season than last, and an additional 27 percent believe they'll do at least as well as last year.

So, hey, at least someone's optimistic about the economy, even if British game developers may be in for a world of hurt. It seems fitting that it's the same folks who gave us "Always Look on the Bright Side of Life."

JoystiqUK retailers confident in strong 2010 games sales originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 12 Dec 2009 02:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>economyretailsalesukSat, 12 Dec 2009 02:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Edge of Twilight developer FuzzyEyes laid off majority of staff]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/03/edge-of-twilight-developer-fuzzyeyes-laid-off-majority-of-staff/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/03/edge-of-twilight-developer-fuzzyeyes-laid-off-majority-of-staff/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/03/edge-of-twilight-developer-fuzzyeyes-laid-off-majority-of-staff/#comments Following yesterday's report that unsung steampunk action title Edge of Twilight had ceased development, we were unsure of the fate of the game's Australian developer, FuzzyEyes. That fate was revealed earlier today in a public statement from the company's CEO, Wei-Yao Lu, who explained, "On 30th of September, FuzzyEyes has let go the majority of staffs as FuzzyEyes was confronted with number of challenges, including economic downturn and some legal complications."

Lu confirmed that the studio is still in business, and is transitioning as it sells a "portion" of its shares to an unnamed third-party company. During this transition, the studio will "suspend all onsite development," while outsourced development will continue on. Lu claims the studio will be fully operational once more, after the transition, and that a number of employees will be offered their positions back in early 2010. The statement promises more details once the transition is finished -- at which point, we'll hopefully learn the true fate of Edge of Twilight.

Gallery: Edge of Twilight

JoystiqEdge of Twilight developer FuzzyEyes laid off majority of staff originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 09:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiadevelopereconomyedge-of-twilightfiringfuzzyeyeslayoffsThu, 03 Dec 2009 09:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Pandemic closes physical doors, brand lives on]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/17/pandemic-closes-physical-doors-brand-lives-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/17/pandemic-closes-physical-doors-brand-lives-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/17/pandemic-closes-physical-doors-brand-lives-on/#comments We've got a little more perspective on the closing of Pandemic, which was rumored earlier today. Though the studio will physically close, and the majority of its staff (some 200 people) will be sacked, the brand and IPs (like Mercenaries, Star Wars: Battlefront and The Saboteur) will continue, EA representative Holly Rockwood told Joystiq. Founders Josh Resnick, Andrew Goldman, Greg Borrud will leave the company.

A lucky few from Pandemic will continue the studio's work under the EALA roof in Playa Vista, reporting to GM Sean Decker. Here's hoping that those who aren't as fortunate won't have to go too long without work.

JoystiqPandemic closes physical doors, brand lives on originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 15:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>closureeaealaeconomyElectronic-ArtsfinancelayoffspandemicTue, 17 Nov 2009 15:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Pandemic Studios to close its doors today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/17/rumor-pandemic-studios-to-close-its-doors-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/17/rumor-pandemic-studios-to-close-its-doors-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/17/rumor-pandemic-studios-to-close-its-doors-today/#comments Pandemic Studios, the house behind games like Mercenaries and the forthcoming The Saboteur will be shuttered by EA today, according to sources speaking to Kotaku. Reportedly, the developer's 200-some staffers will be informed at 2 p.m. EST that all but a few (who will be integrated into other EA teams) are to be let go. Pandemic had previously been rumored as one of the studios that would be hit hardest by EA's 1,500-member staff reduction. Current Pandemic projects will reportedly shift to EA's Montreal branch, which handles Army of Two.

This story, that of a developer who puts their all into a game only to be rewarded with a firing upon its completion, is staring to become alarmingly familiar. Sure, we understand the logistics, but that's cold comfort to those Pandemic employees who may have to start tomorrow off by looking for work. We'll keep after EA for official word.

JoystiqRumor: Pandemic Studios to close its doors today originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaeconomyElectronic-Artslayoffsmercenariespandemicpandemic-studiosthe-saboteurTue, 17 Nov 2009 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dyack predicts more publisher consolidation]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/16/dyack-predicts-more-publisher-consolidation/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/16/dyack-predicts-more-publisher-consolidation/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/16/dyack-predicts-more-publisher-consolidation/#comments Publishers have been disappearing faster than Ludwig's snickerdoodles at Joystiq's Mid-Autumn Tea Social lately, both through bankruptcy or (for the lucky ones) being purchased. Designer and industry soothsayer Denis Dyack told Gaming Union he expects that to continue, comparing the shift to that of Hollywood which went from hundreds of individual studios to the six major houses we know today. Dyack expects the role of publishers to change as well, though he's less specific on exactly what that means.

Boy, one console and now fewer publishers? Sounds like Denis has been listening to too much They Might Be Giants.

JoystiqDyack predicts more publisher consolidation originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consolidationdenis-dyackeconomylayoffspublisherssilicon-knightsMon, 16 Nov 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Man forced by kidnappers to purchase a PlayStation 3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/14/man-forced-by-kidnappers-to-purchase-a-playstation-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/14/man-forced-by-kidnappers-to-purchase-a-playstation-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/14/man-forced-by-kidnappers-to-purchase-a-playstation-3/#comments You can tell the recession is dramatically affecting folks all over the United States when stories about kidnappers forcing their detainee to buy them gaming consoles arise. That's exactly what Kyle Yarkosky is alleging that David Daniels and another unnamed suspect did to him, after forcing him at gunpoint into their vehicle, having him steal his stepfather's credit card, and then drive to the local Walmart where they made him buy them a PlayStation 3.

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

[Thanks Kreyg!]

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

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>collier-countycrimedavid-danielseconomyfloridakidnappingkyle-yarkoskynaples-newsrecessionrobberytheftTheFlamingLipsWal-Mart StoresWal-martStoreswalmart adWalmartAdSat, 14 Nov 2009 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft's layoffs conclude early, over 5,000 let go]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/04/microsofts-layoffs-conclude-early-over-5-000-let-go/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/04/microsofts-layoffs-conclude-early-over-5-000-let-go/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/04/microsofts-layoffs-conclude-early-over-5-000-let-go/#comments
With this morning's confirmation from Microsoft that another 800 people have been let go, the layoffs that began all the way back in January of this year have completed. Affecting everyone from Games for Windows Live to Rare to a quarter of the Massive team, we're sure that the folks still working at The Big M are glad that pendulum blade has stopped swinging above their heads. "We are eliminating around 800 positions ... and have completed our reduction plan sooner than we had anticipated," the company said in a statement to PaidContent.

Unfortunately, as with any business in a down economy, the statement also notes that "continuing to manage our businesses closely ... can mean additional headcount adjustments." Considering a company representative already told TechFlash that more than the announced 5,000 number had been let go over the last 10 months (though no specifics were detailed), we're wondering just how many more people will be affected by "headcount adjustments." We contacted Microsoft for more information, but were given the same statement that PaidContent received. It's been reprinted in full after the break.

Continue reading Microsoft's layoffs conclude early, over 5,000 let go

JoystiqMicrosoft's layoffs conclude early, over 5,000 let go originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 15:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesseconomyfinanciallayoffsmicrosoftpaidcontentWed, 04 Nov 2009 15:19:00 EST<![CDATA[GameStop hiring 15,000 temporary employees this holiday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/27/gamestop-hiring-15-000-temporary-employees-this-holiday/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/27/gamestop-hiring-15-000-temporary-employees-this-holiday/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/27/gamestop-hiring-15-000-temporary-employees-this-holiday/#comments
Like other retailers, North America's largest video game brick-and-mortar chain will be gearing up for the holiday sales rush with a flood of new, temporary employees. GameStop is bolstering its "game advisors" numbers by 78% (see: grunts) and the company's total employee population by 46% (see: covenant) -- that's 15,000 people altogether, RTT News reports.

While the employees will be considered "seasonal," they will reportedly receive the same benefits to working at the company as any other employee, including game borrowing and an employee discount. No word on whether they'll also get the complimentary demoralization and up-selling technique training.

JoystiqGameStop hiring 15,000 temporary employees this holiday originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesseconomygamestophiringholidayholidayshoppingretailrtt-newsseasonalTue, 27 Oct 2009 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[UK retailer GAME sees big boost from used game sales]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/24/uk-retailer-game-sees-big-boost-from-used-game-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/24/uk-retailer-game-sees-big-boost-from-used-game-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/24/uk-retailer-game-sees-big-boost-from-used-game-sales/#comments
Even though the economy has seen better days, UK brick-and-mortar retailer GAME is seeing growth. Its used games revenues in the first half of this year ending July 31 grew by a whopping 12.3 percent to now make up "25.7% of total sales," paralleling US retailer GameStop's yearly used game revenue percentage. But things aren't all Ferrari 458 Italia-filled days and caviar dreams around GAME HQ, with total sales dropping by seven percent.

"In the second half, the installed base of third generation consoles will continue to build ... price reductions on the Microsoft Xbox 360 Elite and Sony's new model PlayStation 3 are helping to stimulate the market for hardware, chairman Peter Lewis said in the financial results announcement. If you add to that the recent speculation of a Nintendo Wii bundle hitting UK store shelves this holiday as well, we imagine the market will get plenty stimulated, Mr. Lewis.

[Via GamingIndustry.biz]

JoystiqUK retailer GAME sees big boost from used game sales originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 Sep 2009 06:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesseconomyfinancialgamegame.co.ukgamestoppeter-lewisused-gamesThu, 24 Sep 2009 06:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Realtime Worlds celebrates new office opening, ever-expanding staff]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/28/realtime-worlds-celebrates-new-office-opening-ever-expanding-st/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/28/realtime-worlds-celebrates-new-office-opening-ever-expanding-st/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/28/realtime-worlds-celebrates-new-office-opening-ever-expanding-st/#comments Like the Scottish equivalent of George and Weezie, Crackdown developer Realtime Worlds is movin' on up. Rather than a deeeluxe apartment in the sky, the company has just opened an 8,000 sq. ft. office, adding to its already existing 26,000 sq. ft. location. Quite a feat considering the company moved into its current studio less than three years ago and has only ever shipped one game.

"We've had tremendous commercial and critical success, and have done the lion's share of the work towards a successful launch of our online title APB," studio manager Colin MacDonald says in the press release, referring to the company's upcoming PC MMO. Considering the down economy and flood of layoffs we saw earlier in the year, it's always good to see some expansion -- RTW is looking to reach over 300 employees by years end. And you could be one of them, as the company wants to remind everyone that "over 40 vacancies" exist in the careers section at the Realtime Worlds website. You live in Scotland, right?

JoystiqRealtime Worlds celebrates new office opening, ever-expanding staff originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 28 Aug 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActionapbbusinesscrackdowneconomyhiringMicrosoftmmorealtime-worldsrealtimeworldsRiot-ActrtmSandboxscotlandthe-jeffersonsXbox-360Fri, 28 Aug 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Atomic Games unable to secure funding for Six Days in Fallujah, reduces staff]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/06/atomic-games-unable-to-secure-funding-for-six-days-in-fallujah/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/06/atomic-games-unable-to-secure-funding-for-six-days-in-fallujah/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/06/atomic-games-unable-to-secure-funding-for-six-days-in-fallujah/#comments
(click to embiggen)

Citing a lack of "full-scale funding" for controversial game Six Days in Fallujah, Atomic Games is reporting today that it's trimming staff. According to Atomic, the 75 employees of the studio remained until this week when an undisclosed amount were let go.

Though the developer assures the "dozens of Marine veterans" who have spent "hundreds of hours in this project" that it will "fight on," we worry that this is just one more sign of a likely to-be-canceled game. After Konami dropped out as the game's publisher back in April, Six Days in Fallujah's fate has been up in the air. It probably doesn't help that rumors circulated yesterday about the studio's creative lead hitting the road for (presumably) greener pastures. We've reached out to Atomic for further information about those let who were let go and will update this post as we hear more.

Gallery: Six Days in Fallujah

JoystiqAtomic Games unable to secure funding for Six Days in Fallujah, reduces staff originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Aug 2009 15:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atomicatomic-gameseconomyfallujahfiringskonamilayoffsMicrosoftrecessionsix-days-in-fallujahXbox-360Thu, 06 Aug 2009 15:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Konami game revenue dips during fiscal Q1, Snake nowhere to be found]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/06/konami-game-revenue-dips-during-fiscal-q1-snake-nowhere-to-be-f/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/06/konami-game-revenue-dips-during-fiscal-q1-snake-nowhere-to-be-f/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/06/konami-game-revenue-dips-during-fiscal-q1-snake-nowhere-to-be-f/#comments
Snake?! Snake?! SNAAAAAAAKE?! news now with Konami's financial results for its first quarter (which ended June 30, 2009) showing a notable decrease in revenue, both company-wide and within the video game sector. Edge reports that overall revenues sank 21 percent to $535 million, while sales accrued from video games dropped 50 percent to $103 million. A 45.1 percent slide in net revenues within the digital sector to $258.6 million was attributed to the gradual sales withdrawal of 2008's lucrative PlayStation 3 exclusive, Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots, as well as "changes in the economic environment."

Konami reportedly sold 2.96 million video games during the quarter, the majority of which were not Metal Gear Solid 4 and 860,000 of which were soccer games. The publisher plans to have a stronger showing during the second half of 2009, thanks to titles like Silent Hill: Shattered Memories, the latest iteration of Pro Evolution Soccer and, of course, DDR Ultra Awesome Kick Mix 2010 EX Gyration Splendour Special (not an actual title). The future will arguably prove to be even more fortuitous, what with the bold decision to release a Metal Gear Solid game on more than one platform.
[Image: Mega 64]

JoystiqKonami game revenue dips during fiscal Q1, Snake nowhere to be found originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Aug 2009 13:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>economyfinancialkonamimetal-gear-solidmetal-gear-solid-4Metal-Gear-Solid-4-Guns-of-the-PatriotssnaaaaaaakesnaakesnakeThu, 06 Aug 2009 13:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Disney Interactive posts 20 percent losses in third quarter, citing bad economy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/31/disney-interactive-posts-20-percent-losses-in-third-quarter-cit/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/31/disney-interactive-posts-20-percent-losses-in-third-quarter-cit/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/31/disney-interactive-posts-20-percent-losses-in-third-quarter-cit/#comments
Businesses don't adhere to the same rules we silly humans do; the cycle of the Earth around the sun, for instance. Disney Interactive Media Group is no exception, posting its quarter three financial results -- the quarter that ends in June, folks -- just this week. According to Gamasutra, revenue dropped by $29 million year over year, which company CEO Robert A. Iger said during a conference call was due to "adverse economic conditions."

Though Iger didn't specifically spell it out, we would imagine that investing in the development of multiple major titles in Split/Second and, um ... whatever it is that Warren Spector's working on at Junction Point isn't helping with the money intake either. The CEO is positive about the future, but remains worried about the current economy, saying, "We do see signs of economic stabilization, but the pace and strength of recovery remain uncertain and we are managing accordingly." We're guessing it's a bad time to ask for those free passes to Epcot?

JoystiqDisney Interactive posts 20 percent losses in third quarter, citing bad economy originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 31 Jul 2009 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessdisneydisney-interactiveeconomyepic-mickeygamasutrajunction-pointjunction-point-studiosrecessionrobert-igersplit-secondFri, 31 Jul 2009 18:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Rock Band slump leads to lower Viacom profits]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/28/rock-band-slump-leads-to-lower-viacom-profits/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/28/rock-band-slump-leads-to-lower-viacom-profits/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/28/rock-band-slump-leads-to-lower-viacom-profits/#comments
Remember how Rock Band sales declined 67 percent since last year? It looks like the sales slump has taken its toll on Viacom's Media Networks division, which houses MTV Games. According to Gamasutra, the division reported revenues of $1.97 billion in its fiscal quarter ending June 30, an 8 percent drop, dubbed the result of "a 41 percent decline in ancillary revenues driven by lower sales of the music video game Rock Band." The Media Networks division also reported profits of $671 million, down 12 percent, which was again attributed to the performance of Rock Band at retail.

Overall, Viacom reported a 14 percent drop in revenues to $3.3 billion and a 26 percent drop in profits to $586 million, though executive chairman Sumner Redstone says that Viacom has "the right portfolio of assets and the right vision to manage through this challenging climate."

Will The Beatles: Rock Band get economically strapped, music-loving gamers back in stores? We'll find out in September.

JoystiqRock Band slump leads to lower Viacom profits originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 28 Jul 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesseconomyharmonixmtv-gamesrock-bandthe-beatles-rock-bandviacomTue, 28 Jul 2009 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon stock drops citing 'an industry slowdown in video games and consoles']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/26/amazon-stock-drops-citing-an-industry-slowdown-in-video-games-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/26/amazon-stock-drops-citing-an-industry-slowdown-in-video-games-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/26/amazon-stock-drops-citing-an-industry-slowdown-in-video-games-a/#comments
The global economic recession is finally hitting home, folks. That's right -- the Internet. Major online retailer Amazon.com is citing, "video games and consoles" as one of the primary culprits causing the company's financial hardship. According to the Wall Street Journal, though the company posted 14% increased profit margins in its last financial quarter, sales of "media" in the US (books, movies, video games) have nearly stopped.

While we can't speak for the other two forms of "media," we'd like to point out to Amazon that, comparatively with spring of 2008, sales of video games in spring of 2009 have been predicted to decrease for some time now. It probably doesn't help that, you know, it's summer. Still, with the flood of great games coming out later this year, we're betting the lean times (in terms of video game sales, at least) won't last for long.

JoystiqAmazon stock drops citing 'an industry slowdown in video games and consoles' originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 26 Jul 2009 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonamazon.combusinessdigital-distributioneconomyrecessionretailsaleswall-street-journalSun, 26 Jul 2009 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 and DS see significant growth, in spite of industry slowdown]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/22/xbox-360-and-ds-see-significant-growth-in-spite-of-industry-slo/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/22/xbox-360-and-ds-see-significant-growth-in-spite-of-industry-slo/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/22/xbox-360-and-ds-see-significant-growth-in-spite-of-industry-slo/#comments
The video game industry is not "recession-proof," as many have trumpeted. So far, the industry has seen a 12 percent decline in revenue in the first half of 2009 versus the same period in 2008. Sales of hardware have slowed down as well, with Nintendo selling 13 percent fewer Wii systems and PS3 selling 30 percent less. There are a few bright spots, however.

Gamasutra notes that Microsoft has "caught its second wind," selling a dramatic 21 percent more Xbox 360 units so far this year. (Aaron Greenberg was right!) This achievement is even more remarkable when one considers the challenges of this economic climate. Astoundingly, the Nintendo DS has also managed to increase its sales, which begs the question: Who doesn't already own one -- or two? When coupled with the newly introduced DSi, combined sales of Nintendo handhelds have gone up more than 56 percent from last year.

Sony continues to struggle with its PlayStation trifecta, as the aging PS2 slowly loses its relevance and consumers appear reluctant to spend $400 on a PS3. We'd continue this paragraph, but it's pretty clear what Sony needs to do if it wants to turn things around.

JoystiqXbox 360 and DS see significant growth, in spite of industry slowdown originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Jul 2009 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSdsieconomygamasutraMicrosoftNintendonpdsalesXbox-360Wed, 22 Jul 2009 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Modern Warfare 2 triggering UK games price hike, EA not budging]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/16/report-modern-warfare-2-triggering-uk-games-price-hike-ea-not/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/16/report-modern-warfare-2-triggering-uk-games-price-hike-ea-not/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/16/report-modern-warfare-2-triggering-uk-games-price-hike-ea-not/#comments
We feel for our UK-based gaming brothers-and-sisters-in-arms. We've seen the gaming industry putting them through the financial wringer many times in the past, but a recent report from MCV describes the cruelest economic hardships they've ever had to face -- Activision has kicked the UK price of Modern Warfare 2 up to £54.99 (close to $90), and according to the report, other publishers may plan to follow suit, raising the prices on their titles as we move into the holiday season.

The price hike is attributed to rising game development costs and the faltering strength of the pound -- still, compared to last holiday season, when titles like Prince of Persia and Far Cry 2 hit store shelves for around £40, it's a pretty sizable leap to make in just one year. However, not everyone is following Activision's example -- Electronic Arts responded to MCV's report, confirming that it would not increase the RRP of its holiday releases. We'll see which strategy pays off once the smoke from the holiday shopping season clears.

JoystiqReport: Modern Warfare 2 triggering UK games price hike, EA not budging originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Jul 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisioneconomyeuropeMicrosoftmodern-warfare-2pricepricingukXbox-360Thu, 16 Jul 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nielsen: Gaming time, used game sales at all-time high]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/06/nielsen-gaming-time-used-game-sales-at-all-time-high/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/06/nielsen-gaming-time-used-game-sales-at-all-time-high/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/06/nielsen-gaming-time-used-game-sales-at-all-time-high/#comments
Take that, crumbling economy! In a recently released report (PDF), Nielsen Media Research claims that, despite poor economic conditions, gamers are actually spending more time playing games in 2009 than they have in previous years. In fact, the number of hours spent per week playing games is at an all-time high. Nielsen attributes this rise to "mainstream gamers" spending more time with "broadly appealing" titles like Rock Band, Guitar Hero and Wii Fit. Playing these games for all they're worth can help gamers "stretch their entertainment dollar," according to Nielsen's Michael Flamberg, director of client consulting,

Furthermore, used game sales are also higher than ever before. Since January, the average number of used games purchased in a six-month period has risen from 3.01 to 3.51, accounting for 36 percent of all games purchased. The firm also reports that subscription to game rental services like GameFly is on the rise, stating that some gamers may use such services as a substitution for purchasing new games.

What say you, Joystiq readers? Has the economy driven you to purchase more used games?

JoystiqNielsen: Gaming time, used game sales at all-time high originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 Jul 2009 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesseconomynielsenused-gamesMon, 06 Jul 2009 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GameStop: Families saving pennies by playing games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/23/gamestop-families-saving-pennies-by-playing-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/23/gamestop-families-saving-pennies-by-playing-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/23/gamestop-families-saving-pennies-by-playing-games/#comments
In these tough economic times, corporations are looking for good news wherever they can find it. Take, for instance, this release issued by GameStop, which said that 34 percent of families will be playing games together rather than partaking in more expensive activities like vacations this summer. Here's the kicker though: Topping the list in first and second place, respectively, are "Going to free community events (63 percent)" and "day trips (51 percent)."

So, video games get routed by day trips to the Rarden Whitetail Deer Festival, and GameStop's bragging about it in a release? Jeez, the economy is worse than we thought.

JoystiqGameStop: Families saving pennies by playing games originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Jun 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>economygamestopsummersurveyvacationTue, 23 Jun 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Two Midway studios facing possible closure in two weeks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/16/two-midway-studios-facing-possible-closure-in-two-weeks/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/16/two-midway-studios-facing-possible-closure-in-two-weeks/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/16/two-midway-studios-facing-possible-closure-in-two-weeks/#comments
If you've got an extra few million bucks lying around, we can think of a couple of video game development studios that could really use it. According to a recent report from Guardian.uk, Midway's Newcastle and San Diego studios are facing closure if they can't find buyers by the end of June. For those whose extended WoW sessions have left them chronologically unaware, that's just two weeks from today.

The Guardian's article focuses on the Newcastle studio -- creators of the recently released Diesel-fest Wheelman -- which is trying to stave off death by finding investors for its unannounced open-world action game. We're far from financial experts, but perhaps keeping said project under wraps isn't the best way to attract suitors in such a brief timeframe. Just, you know, a suggestion.

[Via CVG]

JoystiqTwo Midway studios facing possible closure in two weeks originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 16 Jun 2009 15:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bankruptcyclosureeconomymidwaymidway-newcastlemidway-san-diegorecessionTue, 16 Jun 2009 15:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Crystal Dynamics lays off another 25]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/10/crystal-dynamics-lays-off-another-25/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/10/crystal-dynamics-lays-off-another-25/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/10/crystal-dynamics-lays-off-another-25/#comments
Eidos has confirmed that another 25 employees have been let go from Tomb Raider developer Crystal Dynamics. The publisher told Kotaku that the decision is a "reflection of the continued drive to focus resources at the studio."

This latest round of layoffs follows the confirmed forced departure of approximately 30 employees. At that time, the belief was that the firings had to do with Eidos' dissappointment with Tomb Raider Underworld's sales. This latest round likely has more to do with Square Enix's acquisition of Eidos and the publisher trying to figure out what to do with Crystal Dynamics, which currently has no announced titles.

JoystiqCrystal Dynamics lays off another 25 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Jun 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesscrystal-dynamicseconomyeidoslayoffssquare-enixWed, 10 Jun 2009 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The rest of Midway is up for auction]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/28/the-rest-of-midway-is-up-for-auction/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/28/the-rest-of-midway-is-up-for-auction/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/28/the-rest-of-midway-is-up-for-auction/#comments
Apparently, struggling publisher Midway has more than just Warner Bros. bidding on its remaining assets. After last week's announcement of WB's $33 million dollar offer to acquire the lion's share of Midway's properties, Midway released a statement today detailing the process and, in so many words, is allowing for larger bids. "Midway recently announced a stalking horse asset purchase agreement, which is expected to receive court approval, subject to higher or better bids, in a hearing on June 2, 2009," reads the statement. Additionally, all remaining assets owned by Midway are available for bidding as well -- including the TNA Wrestling franchise not included in the WB bid -- until the court-supervised auction takes place on June 29th.

Midway's Geoff Mogilner told Joystiq this afternoon that today's release "doesn't change that agreement [with WB]" and either side will suffer financial penalties for backing out. He also noted that the acquisition has no effect on the development teams employed by Midway as "people aren't assets." Yet, Geoff. Yet. Seriously though, he told us that any bidder wishing to acquire development teams would have to engage in a "separate acquisition" and any winning bidder on Midway's assets won't take on any of the massive debt the company is currently weighed down by. He also noted that the recipient(s) of the money from this auction have yet to be decided. Standing in line for a payout are a laundry list of creditors along with mystery man Mark Thomas.

JoystiqThe rest of Midway is up for auction originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 May 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctionbusinesseconomygeoff-Mogilnerlawsuitmark-thomasmidwaymortal-kombattnawarner-broswarner-bros-interactiveThu, 28 May 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Used game sales balloon GameStop Q1 2009 numbers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/21/used-game-sales-balloon-gamestop-q1-2009-numbers/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/21/used-game-sales-balloon-gamestop-q1-2009-numbers/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/21/used-game-sales-balloon-gamestop-q1-2009-numbers/#comments
Now here's a real economic indicator: during the fiscal quarter ending May 2 of this year, used game sales at GameStop increased by 31.9 percent, while new game sales decreased by 2.8 percent. Game sales in the US aren't declining, new game sales are -- to the tune of 548.5 million dollars in Q1 2009 alone, just over a quarter of GameStop's entire earnings during the period.

Sure, the Nintendo DSi release and a handful of blockbuster titles from Capcom earlier this year helped to keep new games and hardware from dropping off too much -- new hardware numbers actually increased from last year. But that isn't to say that the 114 new stores opened by the company recently due to "the downward pressure of rents" is a good idea. While GameStop predicts even better sales over the next half of the year, it'd be wise to carefully plan around the "brittle global economy."

[Image credit]

JoystiqUsed game sales balloon GameStop Q1 2009 numbers originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 21 May 2009 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesseconomic-indicatoreconomygamestopnintendo-dsirecessionThu, 21 May 2009 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: The Last Remnant sold better in the West, poorly in general]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/20/report-the-last-remnant-sold-better-in-the-west-poorly-in-general/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/20/report-the-last-remnant-sold-better-in-the-west-poorly-in-general/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/20/report-the-last-remnant-sold-better-in-the-west-poorly-in-general/#comments
It seems as though Square Enix's attempt to reach out to Western gamers with The Last Remnant has done little in the way of olive branch extension, with the title selling 220,000 units since its release last year. According to Siliconera (and corroborated with info from VGChartz.com), the game sold even worse in Japan, where 360 saturation is notably low, moving only 160,000 units, making the game a relative success with Western audiences.

That being said, combined worldwide sales for the game totaled just over half of a million units, with 560,000 selling altogether (more than 400k of which were sold in North America and Europe). Hopefully the acquisition of Eidos will do more for the Japanese company in the west than The Last Remnant did.

JoystiqReport: The Last Remnant sold better in the West, poorly in general originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 May 2009 14:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesseconomyeidosMicrosoftsiliconerasquare-enixthe-last-remnantwestern-developmentXbox-360Wed, 20 May 2009 14:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon UK 'ruthlessly' upping its game sales game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/18/amazon-uk-ruthlessly-upping-its-game-sales-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/18/amazon-uk-ruthlessly-upping-its-game-sales-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/18/amazon-uk-ruthlessly-upping-its-game-sales-game/#comments
Amazon.com UK Games Director Chris Poad tells MCV that his division plans to focus on the things that Amazon "really believes in ruthlessly." The strategy is to be more competitive in pricing, "customer service" (what, like heart stickers on the box?) and selection. The company plans to pay attention to US initiatives like the Xbox Live store and trade-ins to see if it's interested in similar services.

It'll be interesting to see how aggressive Amazon UK decides to get. The British retail market for games is already far more volatile than in the States.

JoystiqAmazon UK 'ruthlessly' upping its game sales game originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 May 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonbritainbusinesschris-poadeconomyukMon, 18 May 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wal-Mart wants your copy of NFL 2K1: Now accepting trade-ins]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/18/wal-mart-wants-your-copy-of-nfl-2k1-now-accepting-trade-ins/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/18/wal-mart-wants-your-copy-of-nfl-2k1-now-accepting-trade-ins/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/18/wal-mart-wants-your-copy-of-nfl-2k1-now-accepting-trade-ins/#comments
Adding to the already robust list of big box retailers offering game trade-ins, Wal-Mart is apparently entering the fray with a variety of less than fantastically functioning trade-in kiosks (read as: robots). Some photos were snapped by the folks at NeoCrisis and, according to the writer's experience, GameStop probably shouldn't be too worried, as no games were actually able to be traded in.

Gamasutra spoke with Wal-Mart and has found out that the kiosks belong to E-Play, a company that specializes in game rental and trade-in kiosks that are hosted in a variety of locations. The current set of machines are part of a now running pilot program, found in only 0.02 percent of Wal-Mart's 3,656 US outlets. Good news, though! The machines are said to accept games from the Xbox and PlayStation 2 era as well, so you can finally get rid of that copy of Blinx you were really hoping would become rare some day!

Source 1 - CheapAssGamer
Source 2 - NeoCrisis
Source 3 - Gamasutra

JoystiqWal-Mart wants your copy of NFL 2K1: Now accepting trade-ins originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 May 2009 15:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesscheapassgamere-playeconomygamasutraneocrisistrade-inused-gameswal-martMon, 18 May 2009 15:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Time editorial (sort of) explains why video games are a good economic indicator]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/15/time-editorial-sort-of-explains-why-video-games-are-a-good-eco/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/15/time-editorial-sort-of-explains-why-video-games-are-a-good-eco/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/15/time-editorial-sort-of-explains-why-video-games-are-a-good-eco/#commentsTime Magazine thinks that video games are a good economic indicator -- as in, if the gaming industry is doing poorly (it's not), that speaks volumes about the national economic situation. And Time's reasoning is sound, more or less: "When people cannot spend $300 on a console or $50 on a game which can be used for hours and played over and over again, the money for discretionary spending has dried up."

The piece references declines in sales of the Nintendo Wii (selling "only" 340k units in April) as well as the recent loss report by Sony on its PlayStation division. Problem is, it makes no mention whatsoever of the repeated analyst reports citing year-over-year declines being forced by AAA-games being released in the traditionally dormant late-Winter/early-Spring months, during 2008. And furthermore, the author worries about the sales of the PS3 in April, not making any mention of the relatively robust PS2 and PSP sales during the same time period.

Then again, the Time website has Jim Cramer divvying out economic tips just three inches to the right of this piece, so, ya know, there's that trustworthy source of financial information.

JoystiqTime editorial (sort of) explains why video games are a good economic indicator originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 May 2009 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesseconomyjim-cramernpdrecessiontime-magazineFri, 15 May 2009 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Factor 5 shuts down US operations]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/14/factor-5-shuts-down-us-operations/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/14/factor-5-shuts-down-us-operations/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/14/factor-5-shuts-down-us-operations/#comments
Factor 5 officially announced the closure of its US operations recently, concluding a story that feels like it's been just out of reach for half a year. The developer had been having some rough times since the poignant failure of Lair. Following that, there was its falling out with Brash Entertainment (which led to layoffs), leaks of the Superman and Kid Icarus games, and, obviously, the closure of the studio.

The bright side on this really dark tale is that Achim Moller, CEO of Factor 5 Germany, states the company has "partnered with both old and new friends in the industry who will reveal our upcoming projects over the next months." With E3 visible in the smog-filled distance, perhaps we'll learn what the German-based developer is up to soon.

[Via Kotaku, Siliconera]

JoystiqFactor 5 shuts down US operations originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 May 2009 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessclosuredepressioneconomyfactor-5kid-icaruslairlayoffsrecessionsupermanThu, 14 May 2009 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Creditors fight back: MIdway gets sued]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/12/creditors-fight-back-midway-gets-sued/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/12/creditors-fight-back-midway-gets-sued/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/12/creditors-fight-back-midway-gets-sued/#comments
Sumner Redstone, his daughter Shari (a former Midway board member, mind you) and the mysterious Mark Thomas are all being sued, among others, by the various creditors that a nearly penniless Midway owes money to. Gamasutra obtained a copy of a 29-page lawsuit, detailing the alleged financial liberties taken by Midway's board (as well as the majority stockholders -- Sumner Redstone and now Mark Thomas), which accuses specific people of "breach of fiduciary duty, corporate waste and unjust enrichment."

The suit claims Midway's current financial situation as one that "arises out of a series of disastrous and ill-advised financial transactions that largely occurred during 2008," further positing that Midway's board "either approved of the transactions or, upon learning of them, looked the other way -- taking no steps to investigate and unwind them." According to the report, Redstone's now famous infamous sale of Midway to Mark Thomas for only $100,000 was an effort to obtain a "massive tax refund," sacrificing Midway in the process. Finally, the suit states that Midway, as a company, has been "insolvent" since some time in late 2007 and its board of directors simply turned a blind eye, allowing the company to sink further into debt.

Oh, and Frank from legal? Your wife wants you home. She knows you've been pretending to go to work for the last seven months.

JoystiqCreditors fight back: MIdway gets sued originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 May 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesseconomygamasutralawsuitlegalmark-thomasmidwaynational-amusementsshari-redstonesumner-redstoneTue, 12 May 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Analyst calculates layoff totals, the belief in a 'Gaming Renaissance Movement']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/12/analyst-calculates-layoff-totals-the-belief-in-a-gaming-renais/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/12/analyst-calculates-layoff-totals-the-belief-in-a-gaming-renais/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/12/analyst-calculates-layoff-totals-the-belief-in-a-gaming-renais/#comments
M2 Research market analyst Wanda Meloni estimates that 8,450 game industry employees have been let go since July 2008. North America had approximately 6,300 layoffs (75 percent), which represents 12 percent of the region's workforce -- her piece was published on Gamasutra last Friday, so it likely doesn't take into account the Massive and 3D Realms hits.

Meloni's "glass half full" view of the layoffs is that these folks will start small development studios and form part of what she's calling the "Gaming Renaissance Movement." She feels that these start-ups -- many self-funded through severance packages -- have the "creativity, vision and sheer grit" (not to mention: no other choice) to do their best to make it.

The majority of Meloni's post goes into detail about what tools, funding and partners these start-ups have at their disposal. As for us, we're just looking to give the "layoffs" tag a rest.

[Via Edge]
[Image]

JoystiqAnalyst calculates layoff totals, the belief in a 'Gaming Renaissance Movement' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 May 2009 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessdepressioneconomylayofflayoffsm2-researchrecessionwanda-meloniTue, 12 May 2009 08:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Guitar teacher claims music games helping his business]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/11/guitar-teacher-claims-music-games-helping-his-business/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/11/guitar-teacher-claims-music-games-helping-his-business/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/11/guitar-teacher-claims-music-games-helping-his-business/#comments
Anecdotally speaking, the guitar teaching business has never been better for Bo Moore, a West Pennsylvania guitar teacher. Speaking with The Tribune-Democrat, he says, "We're so busy right now, and I think these games have been a big factor behind it," referring to the likes of Guitar Hero and Rock Band inspiring young musicians to pick up the real thing after playing the plastic equivalent. Quick, somebody tell Prince to chill out!

Moore says he's seen a 35 percent uptick in guitar lessons over the past two years, an increase he attributes to the mainstream ubiquity of Activision and EA's rhythm-based music games. In fact, around 80 percent of the over 100 students currently enrolled with him have taken to the guitar. Unfortunately for those teaching other instruments, business hasn't been so hot. Moore claims, from conversations he's had with other teachers, that business is down if you're not teaching the guitar. "We need more kids learning to play woodwind instruments ... we need more piano players," he says. The piece's author opines that titles like "Xylophone Xanadu" might help to push kids into other instruments, though we all know Sitar Hero is going to be the one to do it.

[Via GamePolitics]

JoystiqGuitar teacher claims music games helping his business originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 May 2009 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionbo-moorebusinesseaeconomyElectronic-Artsguitar-heroharmonixmtv-gamesneversoftprincerock-bandtribune-democratMon, 11 May 2009 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Ex-Ensemble Studios devs form new studio, working on the iPhone]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/09/ex-ensemble-studios-devs-form-new-studio-working-on-the-iphone/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/09/ex-ensemble-studios-devs-form-new-studio-working-on-the-iphone/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/09/ex-ensemble-studios-devs-form-new-studio-working-on-the-iphone/#comments
It appears as though Bruce Shelley's words will not go unfounded, as the fourth Ensemble Studios-spawned development house has outed itself in Newtoy.The studio is already developing its first game, World War Robot, in collaboration with comic book and game industry veteran Ashley Wood.

In fact, the studio says it's trying to foster this kind of behavior, "a new kind of game development," by creatively collaborating with "world class game makers from around the globe," such as Wood. The few pieces of art available so far appear rather conceptual in nature and do little to help explain the gameplay. We do know, however, that it's based on the Ashley Wood paperback of the same name and the concept shots share a distinct look with the art of the book. No matter what, it's always a pleasure to see new studios popping up in the current economy.

JoystiqEx-Ensemble Studios devs form new studio, working on the iPhone originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 09 May 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Appleashley-woodbruce-shelleydevelopmenteconomyensemble-studiosiPodnewtoyworld-war-robotSat, 09 May 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Disney Interactive revenue down citing lack of console games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/07/disney-interactive-revenue-down-citing-lack-of-console-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/07/disney-interactive-revenue-down-citing-lack-of-console-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/07/disney-interactive-revenue-down-citing-lack-of-console-games/#comments
Disney Interactive has been having a pretty rough year. The company kicked off 2009 with a handful of layoffs, and now, according to reports at Gamasutra, it's also facing a near 20 percent drop in year-over-year revenue. Big surprise? Not exactly, considering the publisher only internally published a handful of games last year (including critically acclaimed Pure and not so critically acclaimed Turok).

Also not a big surprise, Disney Interactive prez and CEO Bob Iger cites "the weak economy and other factors" when explaining his company's less than fantastic financial situation. Let's just hope Warren Spector's "epic" Mickey Mouse game can help to bolster Disney's 2009 lineup.

JoystiqDisney Interactive revenue down citing lack of console games originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 May 2009 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessdisneydisney-interactiveeconomygamasutrapurerecessionturokwarren-spectorThu, 07 May 2009 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft lays off 28 percent of Massive]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/06/microsoft-lays-off-28-percent-of-massive/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/06/microsoft-lays-off-28-percent-of-massive/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/06/microsoft-lays-off-28-percent-of-massive/#comments
It seems as though the reports coming in this morning regarding Microsoft layoffs at its in-game advertising department, Massive, were more than a tad overstated. A Microsoft spokesperson, as well as Cassandra Nuttall, head of marketing at Massive, confirmed to us this afternoon that, "In total, the Massive business unit will see a headcount reduction of 28 percent."

Earlier today we reported that a variety of outlets, relying on "anonymous sources," were told that the layoffs at Massive were as high as 75 percent. "While yesterday's job eliminations included full-time employees who work for Massive," the spokesperson told us, "the reports of a 75 percent workforce reduction are inaccurate." Citing the "global economic downturn" for the staff cuts, Ms. Nuttall also insures us that the company "foresee[s] no disruption whatsoever [in its] current relationships with global, blue chip brands and leading game publishers." To those of you laid off, we wish you the best in the coming months.

JoystiqMicrosoft lays off 28 percent of Massive originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 May 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesscassandra-nuttalleconomylayoffsmassivemicrosoftrecessionWed, 06 May 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[THQ reports $431.1 million loss, blames WWE and kids games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/06/thq-reports-431-1-million-loss-blames-wwe-and-kids-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/06/thq-reports-431-1-million-loss-blames-wwe-and-kids-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/06/thq-reports-431-1-million-loss-blames-wwe-and-kids-games/#comments
Things are looking quite grim at beleaguered publisher THQ. During today's investor relations conference call, the company reported a 19 percent decrease in net sales for the fiscal year ending March, 31 2009. In dollars, net sales totaled a mere $830 million, compared to roughly $1.04 billion in the previous year. The company also reported a whopping net loss of $431.1 million for the fiscal year.

Lagging sales in both THQ's kids and WWE divisions have dramatically affected THQ's bottom line. Stale kids franchises dragged down the category 38 percent, while sales of WWE games have plummeted 25 percent.

Understandably, the company plans to refocus its efforts in the new fiscal year. The casual games market is an important growth sector for THQ, with sales of its Wii games doubling year over year. Wii software sales represented 17 percent of the company's total sales, a dramatic jump from 9 percent the year before. The kids division is also expected to be reinvigorated with THQ's upcoming Marvel Superhero Squad, coming to Wii, DS, PSP and PS2. THQ anticipates this kid-friendly Marvel mash-up game will become an annual franchise for the company. In addition, THQ will reveal three new casual, "mass appeal" titles at E3.

JoystiqTHQ reports $431.1 million loss, blames WWE and kids games originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 May 2009 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesseconomysalesthqWed, 06 May 2009 17:45:00 EST