Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Gamestop Expo 2013 to take place in Vegas this August]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/02/gamestop-expo-2013-to-take-place-in-vegas-this-august/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/02/gamestop-expo-2013-to-take-place-in-vegas-this-august/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/02/gamestop-expo-2013-to-take-place-in-vegas-this-august/#commentsGamestop Expo 2013 to take place in Vegas this August GameStop's annual Expo event is set to return to Las Vegas on August 28. The event serves as a manager's meeting for the chain, and as of last year the company has also opened the show to the public.

Expo 2013 will feature 250,000 square feet of exhibitions from 80 major game developers and publishers, and offer a look at Sony's upcoming PlayStation 4.

Just like last year, general admission to the Sands Expo Center for the show costs $35. GameStop has knocked $10 off the VIP pass (which grants access to a special lounge, a swag bag, and panel discussions), which is now available for $90. GameStop is also giving away an all-expense-paid trip to one lucky PowerUp Rewards member who buys or trades something in the month of May.

Just like 2012, the show's August 28 kickoff puts it right before PAX Prime in Seattle.

JoystiqGamestop Expo 2013 to take place in Vegas this August originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 May 2013 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conventioneventsgamestopgamestop-expogamestop-expo-2013las-vegasmanagersmeetingmicrosoftpcplaystationps3sands-expo-centerxboxThu, 02 May 2013 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Attract Mode and Fangamer host all-ages video game art show Saturday night at PAX]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/28/attract-mode-and-fangamer-host-all-ages-video-game-art-show-satu/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/28/attract-mode-and-fangamer-host-all-ages-video-game-art-show-satu/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/28/attract-mode-and-fangamer-host-all-ages-video-game-art-show-satu/#comments Cool PAX party from FangamerAttract ModeIf you're in Seattle this week - perhaps for PAX Prime - then your Thursday night plans have been taken care of. You'll be at Joystiq's Borderlands 2 party, and you'd better say hi when you see us there. But PAX goes for four days, you say - what about the rest of the weekend? We'll cover Saturday for you as well: "Videogame collective" Attract Mode and videogame apparel site Fangamer are teaming up to hold a great big live art and game show, starting at 7pm on Saturday, September 1 in Seattle.

Cumulo Nimblers, Capy's Super Time Force, and Eric Zimmerman's Metagame will all be there and playable, 8-bit artist Danimal Cannon and hip-hop gamer MegaRan (he's good) will provide the tunes, and the whole show will be drenched in some of the best video-game related artwork you'll find (and which you can see examples of in the gallery below). It'll be a rad time indeed; it's an all ages show that's open to the public, and admission is $5.

The event starts at 7pm and goes until 11 on Saturday September 1, and you can find it at the 1927 Events space, at 1927 3rd Ave. in Seattle. As for your Friday and Sunday nights at PAX, well, you'll have to find your own party space for those.

Gallery: Fangamer vs. Attract Mode PAX 2012 Art Show

JoystiqAttract Mode and Fangamer host all-ages video game art show Saturday night at PAX originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 28 Aug 2012 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artattract-modecapyeventsfangamermeatbunmegaranmetagamemusicpartypaxpax-2012pax-prime-2012super-time-forceTue, 28 Aug 2012 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Penny Arcade Expo planning on branching out to third city]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/26/penny-arcade-expo-planning-on-branching-out-to-third-city/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/26/penny-arcade-expo-planning-on-branching-out-to-third-city/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/26/penny-arcade-expo-planning-on-branching-out-to-third-city/#comments Jerry Holkins and Mike Krahulik -- the pair of minds behind Penny Arcade, which is the comic behind the major gaming convention that's happening right now -- have confirmed that PAX will soon find a home in a third location somewhere on the planet. "Yeah, there's going to be a third PAX," Krahulik explained in an interview with us earlier today. "Believe it," Holkins added. We do!

The duo said they have a city in mind, but didn't divulge which one it is -- a shame, because there are a lot of cities to guess from. During last year's PAX Press Q&A, they hinted that a third PAX might come together, perhaps in an overseas locale they'd like to visit. Any international readers have a hometown they'd like to see wholly and completely overrun by gamingkind?

JoystiqPenny Arcade Expo planning on branching out to third city originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Aug 2011 23:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eventsgabeinternationalpaxpax-east-2011pax-prime-2011penny-arcadepenny-arcade-expotychoFri, 26 Aug 2011 23:45:00 EST<![CDATA[QuakeCon registration opens at 8 p.m. ET tonight]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/26/quakecon-registration-opens-at-8-p-m-et-tonight/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/26/quakecon-registration-opens-at-8-p-m-et-tonight/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/26/quakecon-registration-opens-at-8-p-m-et-tonight/#comments If you're positively jonesing to try out some of Bethesda Softworks' upcoming titles before the hoi polloi get their filthy hands on them, you'll want to stick around your computer at 8 p.m. ET tonight. That's when registration for QuakeCon 2011 opens up, letting people ensure their place at the PC gaming-centric event which will be held August 4 through August 7 at the Hilton Anatole hotel in Dallas, Texas.

Basic registration will be free, though three premium tiers of tickets will be available in limited quantities for the diehards. These include a $20 "Select-a-Seat" package, which gets you quickly into the BYOC arena, and the $35 "Swag Pack," which gets you some free merch. There's also the $50 "QuakeCon Done Quick" package, which includes both speedy entry into panels and a metric ton of merch. Check out more details about these super ritzy premium packages after the break.

Continue reading QuakeCon registration opens at 8 p.m. ET tonight

JoystiqQuakeCon registration opens at 8 p.m. ET tonight originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 May 2011 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eventsid-SoftwarepcquakeconrageThu, 26 May 2011 18:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Second annual 'No Quarter' exhibit to be held in NYC May 12]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/07/second-annual-no-quarter-exhibit-to-be-held-in-nyc-may-12/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/07/second-annual-no-quarter-exhibit-to-be-held-in-nyc-may-12/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/07/second-annual-no-quarter-exhibit-to-be-held-in-nyc-may-12/#comments We assume that everyone reading this blog post are unswervingly hip individuals living in New York City -- if that is indeed the case, you should leave space in your social calendar for the 2nd Annual No Quarter games exhibit this coming Thursday, May 12 at 7PM EST. The event is a showcase of new titles from indie developers including Terry Cavanagh (creator of VVVVVV), Ramiro Corbetta, Charley Miller and Luke O' Connor.

The totally free expo will feature new creations from these developers -- for example, Cavanagh's Nidhogg was commissioned for No Quarter last year -- as well as a public appearance by the indie game-stuffed Winnitron 1000 arcade cabinet. If that doesn't float your boat, perhaps this will: Free refreshments. Check out the flier after the jump for more details on how you can book your ticket on this gravy train. (Man, we hope gravy is one of the aforementioned refreshments.)

Continue reading Second annual 'No Quarter' exhibit to be held in NYC May 12

JoystiqSecond annual 'No Quarter' exhibit to be held in NYC May 12 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 07 May 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eventsindienidhoggno-quarternycnyu-game-centerpcterry-cavanaghwinnitron-1000Sat, 07 May 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Meet basically every game composer ever in Burbank on June 11]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/meet-basically-every-game-composer-ever-in-burbank-on-june-11/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/meet-basically-every-game-composer-ever-in-burbank-on-june-11/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/meet-basically-every-game-composer-ever-in-burbank-on-june-11/#comments Ever wanted to personally thank a video game composer for creating a particularly catchy anthem? Perhaps with a plate of cookies, or a hearty handshake? You'll get your chance next month, provided you live in Southern California -- Sumthing Else Music Works has arranged for a smattering of musicians to speak at a "Maestros of Video Games" panel on June 11 at Dark Delicacies Books and Collectibles in Burbank, CA.

Attendees will be able to listen to and meet composers like Uncharted's Greg Edmonson, Dragon Age's Inon Zur, BioShock's Garry Schyman and a lot more. Check out the full list of participants and event details after the jump! (And we were just kidding about the "plate of cookies" thing. That would be creeptastic.)

Continue reading Meet basically every game composer ever in Burbank on June 11

JoystiqMeet basically every game composer ever in Burbank on June 11 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 May 2011 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>composereventsgreg-edmonsoninon-zurmusicscoresoundtracksumthing-else-music-worksWed, 04 May 2011 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX Prime registration open, developers get their own PAX Dev event]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/15/pax-prime-registration-open-developers-get-their-own-pax-dev-ev/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/15/pax-prime-registration-open-developers-get-their-own-pax-dev-ev/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/15/pax-prime-registration-open-developers-get-their-own-pax-dev-ev/#comments Whether you're a video gaming enthusiast or a member of the industry which sustains itself upon the monies of video gaming enthusiasts, you'd better start getting ready for next Penny Arcade Expo. Not only did registration for PAX Prime 2011 open up earlier today, but an all new event called PAX Dev was announced, catering to the interests of game developers in the two days preceding the weekend of August 26, when the main, Seattle-based convention takes place.

The new event's site explains its mission statement, saying, "We're shooting for a small (750-ish), intimate setting where digital and pen/paper game developers alike can focus on their craft." As much as we'd love to get all up in that to learn about the deepest brain-thoughts of our favorite developers, the site explicitly states, "No press." That's too bad for us, but shouldn't be a problem for JoySoft, our new spin-off development studio, which is staffed entirely by people who look exactly like us, only with conspicuous-looking mustaches.

JoystiqPAX Prime registration open, developers get their own PAX Dev event originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Apr 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eventspaxpax-devpax-dev-2011pax-primepax-prime-2011penny-arcadeFri, 15 Apr 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2011 exhibitor list revealed, the panic begins]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/10/e3-2011-exhibitor-list-revealed-the-panic-begins/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/10/e3-2011-exhibitor-list-revealed-the-panic-begins/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/10/e3-2011-exhibitor-list-revealed-the-panic-begins/#comments Oh, God. Oh, God! Wasn't E3 2010 like, last week? It can't possibly be time for us to start planning our multi-tiered assault on the gaming industry's biggest news hurricane of the year again, can it? We'd like to think not -- but the recently revealed E3 2011 exhibitors list which just arrived in our inbox says otherwise.

You can check out the full list of exhibitors after the jump, following which, you can feel free to start wildly prognosticating what each company is going to bring to the table. Here, we'll start: Epic Games? Probably bringing some news about Gears of War 3. Bethesda Softworks? Some details about Skyrim, we bet. Turtle Beach? Real, live turtles for every single E3 attendee. Trust us, we have a good feeling about that one.

Continue reading E3 2011 exhibitor list revealed, the panic begins

JoystiqE3 2011 exhibitor list revealed, the panic begins originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Jan 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3e3-2011esaeventsexhibitorsMon, 10 Jan 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Solve Layton's puzzles or die in a Bay area phone booth]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/31/solve-laytons-puzzles-or-die-in-a-bay-area-phone-booth/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/31/solve-laytons-puzzles-or-die-in-a-bay-area-phone-booth/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/31/solve-laytons-puzzles-or-die-in-a-bay-area-phone-booth/#commentsFiled under: , ,

If you're in the San Francisco area on September 7, you may want to stop by the Union Square shopping center, where characters from the Professor Layton series will let visitors step into a British phone booth and sample the upcoming Professor Layton and the Unwound Future. Combined total puzzle scores for guys will be pitted against ladies' scores as similar events are held in Boston, Chicago and Philadelphia.

... Hey, wait a minute! A puzzle-obsessed genius is trapping people in phone booths until they complete a battle of wits? Hell, toss in a couple of rotating blades and Cary Elwes and we've got a Saw movie on our hands.

JoystiqSolve Layton's puzzles or die in a Bay area phone booth originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 31 Aug 2010 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dseventsLevel-5nintendoprofessor-laytonProfessor-Layton-and-the-Unwound-FuturepuzzleTue, 31 Aug 2010 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dragon Quest IX hits the road, Gamestop distributing treasure maps]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/29/dragon-quest-ix-hits-the-road-gamestop-distributing-treasure-ma/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/29/dragon-quest-ix-hits-the-road-gamestop-distributing-treasure-ma/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/29/dragon-quest-ix-hits-the-road-gamestop-distributing-treasure-ma/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Look, America isn't blessed with the near-universal dependence on public transportation and cultural adoption of Square Enix's portable games that makes using Dragon Quest IX's "Tag mode" and other networking features worthwhile. Rather than let our nation's DQIX-playing community steam in a broth of its own jealousy, Nintendo will attempt to rally players together in the one centralized location with which they're all likely familiar: their local Gamestop.

This coming Saturday, July 31, select Gamestops will be hosting an all-day event where potential Quest-ers can check out a demo for the game, meet up with other players to wirelessly exchange bonuses, and download the "Zoma" treasure map, which has yet to come stateside. Similar events will be held at Best Buys across the country August 7, as well as select shopping malls every weekend until September 19. That sure beats turning on Tag Mode, then aimlessly walking the streets like some kind of sad Dragon Quest IX panhandler.

JoystiqDragon Quest IX hits the road, Gamestop distributing treasure maps originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Jul 2010 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Best-BuyDragon-Quest-IXdseventsgamestopnintendosquare-enixtag-modeThu, 29 Jul 2010 17:20:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX Prime 2010 three-day passes still available [update: sell-out was a glitch]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/11/psa-pax-prime-2010-three-day-passes-sold-out/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/11/psa-pax-prime-2010-three-day-passes-sold-out/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/11/psa-pax-prime-2010-three-day-passes-sold-out/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Update: Apparently, the PAX ticketing site was displaying the sold out message due to a glitch. Three-day badges are still available for $55 for the time being. We apologize for the confusion.

Previous post:
Looking for a sign that you've been hesitating too long to register for PAX Prime? The event's stockpile of $55 three-day badges are now sold out, leaving only $35 single-day passes for all you slowpokes. If you're going, you better act fast -- these things have a tendency to sell like hotcakes.

Continue reading PAX Prime 2010 three-day passes still available [update: sell-out was a glitch]

JoystiqPAX Prime 2010 three-day passes still available [update: sell-out was a glitch] originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 11 Jul 2010 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eventspax-prime-2010penny-arcadepsasold-outticketsSun, 11 Jul 2010 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Reminder: Last batch of BlizzCon 2010 tickets on sale today at 1 PM EDT]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/05/reminder-last-batch-of-blizzcon-2010-tickets-on-sale-today-at-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/05/reminder-last-batch-of-blizzcon-2010-tickets-on-sale-today-at-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/05/reminder-last-batch-of-blizzcon-2010-tickets-on-sale-today-at-1/#comments If you're hoping to join your fellow World of Warcraft, StarCraft and Diablo fans in a two-day love-fest for all things Blizzard later this year, you're gonna want to keep your fingers on your F5 button here in just a few minutes. The second and final group of tickets for BlizzCon 2010 will go on sale at 1PM EDT (10 AM PDT) on the event's official website and the Blizzard store for $150 a pop.

Seeing as how the ticket queue for the last round of sales jumped from zero to 20,000 in two minutes, you'll want to be as prepared as humanly possible if you want to acquire an entry pass. Check out WoW.com for a few helpful tips on how to grab your ticket hastily and definitively.

JoystiqReminder: Last batch of BlizzCon 2010 tickets on sale today at 1 PM EDT originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 05 Jun 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardblizzconblizzcon-2010eventsticketsSat, 05 Jun 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tokyo Game Show 2010 slated for Sept. 16 - 19]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/26/tokyo-game-show-2010-slated-for-sept-16-19/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/26/tokyo-game-show-2010-slated-for-sept-16-19/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/26/tokyo-game-show-2010-slated-for-sept-16-19/#comments If you're the sort who's still got "Visit the Tokyo Game Show" dangling off your bucket list, you've got less than seven months to mow lawns, wash cars and help old Ms. McCallister down the block file down her callouses to save up the cash for the trip. According the event's official site, this year's edition of the trade show is slated for Sept. 16 - 19.

Of course, why waste your time on Ms. McCallister's delicate condition when you could enjoy the whole show from the comfort of your computer monitor at popular internet website Joystiq.com? We're going to be washing plenty of cars to pay our way there, so why don't you sit this one out?

JoystiqTokyo Game Show 2010 slated for Sept. 16 - 19 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Feb 2010 22:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eventsjapantgstgs-2010tokyo-game-showFri, 26 Feb 2010 22:22:00 EST<![CDATA[New costumes, spaces are Home-ward bound]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/28/new-costumes-spaces-are-home-ward-bound/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/28/new-costumes-spaces-are-home-ward-bound/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/28/new-costumes-spaces-are-home-ward-bound/#comments Sony's official Playstation blog has posted a rundown of what's new in Home this coming week, and it looks like you'll have a few different costumes, personal spaces, and even a couple of contests to pick from. First up, the costumes: Not only will the Bioshock suit finally be available, but there's a special edition Ezio costume from Assassin's Creed II as well. There's a brand new personal space named London Pub created by VEEMEE, complete with dart game, beer taps, and working restrooms. And there are new items for the Paris Clock Tower personal space, as well as Fantasy and Victorian clothing bundles to buy.

As for contests, they're currently running MAG contests in Central Plaza (where you can get free t-shirts of the game's factions), and Zombieland contests that ask you to answer trivia questions posted around the environment. Other than those promotions, new stuff ain't cheap: The London Pub is $5.99, and the other items and costumes will cost you, too. But what's the cost of one beer at a swanky authentic pub when you could buy a virtual copy of the whole place?

JoystiqNew costumes, spaces are Home-ward bound originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Jan 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Assassins-Creedassassins-creed-2Assassins-Creed-iibioshockcentral-plazaclothingcontestscostumeeventseziohomelondon-pubofficialplaystation-homesonyUbisoftUbisoft-MontrealveemeeThu, 28 Jan 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[1 vs. 100 statistics, upcoming events detailed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/17/1-vs-100-statistics-upcoming-events-detailed/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/17/1-vs-100-statistics-upcoming-events-detailed/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/17/1-vs-100-statistics-upcoming-events-detailed/#comments The first season of the Xbox Live game show sensation that's sweeping the nation is drawing to a close -- if you've yet to check out 1 vs. 100, Microsoft is pulling out all the stops during its last week on the air (August 22 - 29) to try and suck you in. Among the attractions is a free chance for Silver subscribers to try the game out during its last weekend run, and guest appearances by Shadow Complex creative director Donald Mustard, GamerchiX, Major Nelson and internet nerd darling Felicia Day.

Microsoft also released a number of statistics regarding the game's success -- more than 2.5 million people across the globe have downloaded 1 vs. 100, and more than one million Microsoft Points have been handed out to the game's participants. None went to us, though. We tend to crack under interrogative pressure.

Joystiq1 vs. 100 statistics, upcoming events detailed originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Aug 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1-vs-100calendareventsfelicia-daygame-showMicrosoftXbox-360xbox-liveMon, 17 Aug 2009 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[June's GameOn! expo lets public try Capcom's latest]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/junes-gameon-expo-lets-public-try-capcoms-latest/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/junes-gameon-expo-lets-public-try-capcoms-latest/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/junes-gameon-expo-lets-public-try-capcoms-latest/#comments It's a real shame that E3 is an industry-only event, keeping all the hot, new games out of the hands of the general public. The only way you, the gaming masses, will get an early romp with these highly-anticipated titles is if you hop on a plane to England and grab tickets to London's GameOn! event.

On June 20 and 21 at the London Olympia, British gamers will get to go hands-on with upcoming titles from the following companies: Sony, Nintendo, Capcom and possibly more. Specifically, Capcom (via Edge-Online) has a detailed list of what it's showing, and it certainly is a line-up strong enough to make its E3 showcase blush. Check out the list after the break. Is there anything you want to play?

Continue reading June's GameOn! expo lets public try Capcom's latest

JoystiqJune's GameOn! expo lets public try Capcom's latest originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 May 2009 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eventsexpogame-ongameonlondonMicrosoftNintendoukWiiXbox-360Fri, 29 May 2009 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Konami announces MGS4 launch events for US [Update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/konami-announces-mgs4-launch-events-for-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/konami-announces-mgs4-launch-events-for-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/konami-announces-mgs4-launch-events-for-us/#commentsFiled under: ,

Konami has announced three opportunities for US fans of the MGS series to meet the creators and stars of the insta-classic Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of The Patriots in person, beginning with the midnight launch of the game in NYC and Los Angeles. As an added bit of extra-coolness, Konami will be selling an undisclosed number of the limited edition MGS4 PS3 bundles regular MGS4 PS3 bundles at each event for $499.99. We've got the full schedule of events after the break.

[Update: The Gunmetal PS3 will not be sold at these launch events. Instead, the regular 80GB Metal Gear Solid 4 bundle will be offered. This includes a standard black 80GB system, a regular copy of Metal Gear Solid 4 and a DualShock 3 controller. We apologize for any confusion.]

Continue reading Konami announces MGS4 launch events for US [Update]

JoystiqKonami announces MGS4 launch events for US [Update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Jun 2008 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eventshideo-kojimakonamimetal-gear-solid-4Metal-Gear-Solid-4-Guns-of-the-PatriotsPS3Wed, 04 Jun 2008 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[ION Game Conference to address social networking on consoles, PC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/28/ion-game-conference-to-address-social-networking-on-consoles-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/28/ion-game-conference-to-address-social-networking-on-consoles-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/28/ion-game-conference-to-address-social-networking-on-consoles-pc/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Game industry types looking for yet another reason to flock to a central location and gab about the business while getting liquored up at the open bar should take a moment to block out some time for this summer's Ion Game Conference, taking place from May 13-15 in Seattle. Known as the Online Game Developers Conference in a previous life, organizers Evergreen Events note that the re-dubbed conference will feature an expanded focus, with panels covering topics such virtual worlds and social networking on home consoles.

While few details concerning specific panels have yet been revealed for this year's event, last year's topics included "Xbox LIVE on Windows and 360: Are Your Games Dead or LIVE?," "The Future of Games and Entertainment Resides Online," and "Dirty Secrets of Episodic Video Games," among others. Early registration for the Ion Game Conference is now open, and event organizers note that as they are expecting a considerable turnout by attendees across the globe. Those interested in taking part in the event should register early.

JoystiqION Game Conference to address social networking on consoles, PC originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Jan 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conferenceeventsevergreenionogdcsocial netoworkingSocialNetoworkingvirtual worldsVirtualWorldsxbox liveXboxLiveMon, 28 Jan 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony's newest PS3 model: PS3 Chocolate]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/15/sonys-newest-ps3-model-ps3-chocolate/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/15/sonys-newest-ps3-model-ps3-chocolate/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/15/sonys-newest-ps3-model-ps3-chocolate/#commentsFiled under:


It seems as if Sony has yet another low-budget PS3 model in the works - only this time it's made completely of chocolate. Sony unveiled a stack of 150 PS3s along with a giant Sixaxis controller during Eurochocolate in Perugia, Italy recently. Eurochocolate is an annual nine-day event for chocolate connoisseurs the world over, and features food tasting, competitions and all sorts of other stuff people like to do with chocolate.

However, the revelry quickly turned to shock when, after the unveiling, several people, who we assume were riotous Xbox 360 fanboys, rushed the stage and trampled Sony's hard work. Due to this diabolical act of terrorism, attendees were treated with free chocolate PS3s.

Reports from people on scene claim the PS3 Chocolate disappointingly lacked the internals to support backwards compatibility like Sony's other new system.

Continue reading Sony's newest PS3 model: PS3 Chocolate

JoystiqSony's newest PS3 model: PS3 Chocolate originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 15 Oct 2007 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chocolateeventsmarketingMon, 15 Oct 2007 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Brewfest celebrated in World of Warcraft]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/03/brewfest-celebrated-in-world-of-warcraft/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/03/brewfest-celebrated-in-world-of-warcraft/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/03/brewfest-celebrated-in-world-of-warcraft/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


We're suckers for Bavaria, so if we can't go to Oktoberfest, we're going to enjoy "Brewfest" in World of Warcraft. So grab yourself some Löwenbräu, or Paulaner if you prefer, plop in front of your computer and get ready to eat some virtual pretzels and win some lederhosen.

You can check out WoW Insider for suggestions on how to get the most out of your Brewfest holiday. The general information is that the event runs from Oct. 2-16. There will be complimentary mugs to get your avatar nice and sloshed, then you can purchase "Eyesight Enhancing Romance Goggles" to find the perfect mate at the festival. There will also be ram racing, mystery hunts and you can even be hired to advertise the event in major cities. All of the events will net you tickets that you can trade in for the fabulous prizes above. Happy Brewfest to those in Azeroth!

[Via WoW Insider]

JoystiqBrewfest celebrated in World of Warcraft originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Oct 2007 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brewfestbrewfest-woweventsMacPCworldofwarcraftwowwow insiderwow-insiderWowInsiderWed, 03 Oct 2007 13:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Mario & Sonic Olympic events revealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/27/mario-and-sonic-olympic-events-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/27/mario-and-sonic-olympic-events-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/27/mario-and-sonic-olympic-events-revealed/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Mario and Sonic will soon put their bitter 16-bit rivalry aside, sharing screen time in Sega and Nintendo's 'Bizarro World' collabo, Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games. With the release for the Wii just a couple of months away, Sega has released details concerning the game's 20 authentic Olympic events, as detailed below:
  • Fencing - Individual epée
  • Archery
  • Shooting - Skeet
  • Gymnastics - Trampoline
  • Gymnastics - Vault
  • Field - High Jump
  • Field - Pole Vault
  • Field - Long Jump
  • Field - Triple Jump
  • Field - Javelin Throw
  • Field - Hammer Throw
  • Rowing - Single Sculls
  • Table Tennis - Singles
  • Aquatics - 100m Freestyle
  • Aquatics - 4x100m Freestyle
  • Track - 110m and 400m Hurdles
  • Track - 4x100m Relay
  • Track -100m and 400m
In addition, Sega has revealed that the game will include 16 different characters, 8 from Mario's universe, and 8 from Sonic's, and like in Mario Kart, the characters will each be broken up into different classes, all with their own strengths and weaknesses. For example, Knuckles and Bowser will be part of the Power class, making them ideal for events requiring the kind of strength that only a anthropomorphic lizard and echidna can muster. As always, Mario will be balanced all around, as will Sonic's Amy, while Sonic himself will obviously dominate the Speed class alongside our dark horse prediction, Yoshi.

JoystiqMario & Sonic Olympic events revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 27 Sep 2007 12:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bowsereventsknucklesmarioolympicsonicWiiThu, 27 Sep 2007 12:05:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Daily: PAX ahoy!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/25/ds-daily-pax-ahoy/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/25/ds-daily-pax-ahoy/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/25/ds-daily-pax-ahoy/#commentsFiled under:

Our own JC Fletcher is out at PAX this weekend, so you can catch him over on Joystiq reporting on everything worth talking about. We're pretty sure he's not there alone (we hear a few people attend), but are you there? If you're reading from your hotel, or somewhere around PAX, we want to know! Have you been before? Would you like to go? And speaking of shows of all types, now that E3 has changed, is there any particular gaming-related event you'd like to attend more than others?

JoystiqDS Daily: PAX ahoy! originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 25 Aug 2007 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eventspaxSat, 25 Aug 2007 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[No X07, but there will be a UK event]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/19/no-x07-but-there-will-be-a-uk-event/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/19/no-x07-but-there-will-be-a-uk-event/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/19/no-x07-but-there-will-be-a-uk-event/#commentsFiled under:

Quick on the heels of Aaron Greenberg's announcement that X07 is dead and will not be happening this year, Microsoft has confirmed with gamesindustry.biz that they have another event scheduled to take its place in the UK. The new Xbox event (name still pending) will be focused towards a UK audience instead of the broad European audience X07 catered to and should take place before Christmas as no specific dates have been announced.

It's true, we were a bit depressed yesterday hearing that our X07 went the way of the mullet, but with today's announcement of a replacement event we have perked up a little. Any Xbox 360 event that brings us new announcements, trailers or gameplay makes us happy and we're glad to see Microsoft make an effort to bring such excitement to the UK. Long live end of the year gaming events in Europe no matter where they take place!

JoystiqNo X07, but there will be a UK event originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Jul 2007 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eventsx07Thu, 19 Jul 2007 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Red, White & Blue Dragon: Celebrating Japanese games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/02/red-white-and-blue-dragon-celebrating-japanese-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/02/red-white-and-blue-dragon-celebrating-japanese-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/02/red-white-and-blue-dragon-celebrating-japanese-games/#commentsFiled under:

The United States of America's birthday is just around the corner and Xbox.com thought of no better way to celebrate July 4th than by playing ... Japanese games? Well, we don't quite see the correlation here other than a Blue Dragon name tie-in, but we'll go with it. And even though we prefer to celebrate the Fourth of July with explosive fireworks, grilled food and family we just might pop in some Dead Rising, Tenchu Z, Street Fighter or Castlevania come Wednesday.

See Japan, the Xbox 360 loves you so much it's willing to incorporate your gaming culture in a marketing campaign aimed at Americans on their country's birthday. Don't you think you owe the 360 some love now?

JoystiqRed, White & Blue Dragon: Celebrating Japanese games originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Jul 2007 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blue dragonBlueDragoncapcomeventsnamcored white and blue dragonRedWhiteAndBlueDragonMon, 02 Jul 2007 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[GH II event in NYC featuring Gene Simmons]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/04/gh-ii-event-in-nyc-featuring-gene-simmons/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/04/gh-ii-event-in-nyc-featuring-gene-simmons/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/04/gh-ii-event-in-nyc-featuring-gene-simmons/#commentsFiled under: ,

Major sent word that Microsoft will be hosting a Guitar Hero II event featuring KISS rocker Gene Simmons in New York City. The event will be held next Wednesday, April 11th at the NYC Virgin Megastore starting at 12:30PM and should wrap up around 2:30PM. Not only will Gene Simmons be rocking it out on stage, but five GH II champions will be competing and Major Nelson will be floating around doing his thing. NYC residents mark your calendars, because next Wednesday you'll be in the presence of five rock gods and Gene Simmons too. Don't you just love marketing events?

[Via Major Nelson]

JoystiqGH II event in NYC featuring Gene Simmons originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Apr 2007 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eventsgene simmonsGeneSimmonsgh iiGhIiguitar hero iiGuitarHeroIired octaneRedOctaneWed, 04 Apr 2007 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[ Your GoW Emergence Day planner]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/28/your-gow-emergence-day-planner/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/28/your-gow-emergence-day-planner/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/28/your-gow-emergence-day-planner/#commentsFiled under:

Here's what Microsoft has scheduled for Gears of War fans on November 12, otherwise known as "Emergence Day":
  • A 24-Hour Leader board Tournament. The tournament winner receives a one of a kind "Gears of War" branded guitar as well as an automatic bye to the finals of a Global "Gears of War" Tournament planned for 2007.
  • Hourly sweepstakes drawings and prize giveaways including the chance to win one of several Samsung HT-P29 Dolby 5.1 Surround Sound Systems
  • An exclusive free "Gears of War" Gamer pic and theme only available on Emergence Day
  • Game with Fame sessions with legendary heavy metal band and "Gears of War" fans Megadeth, the game's lead designer Cliff Bleszinski and other members of the Epic Games team
  • Never before seen videos including a special Emergence Day transmission from Cliff Bleszinski
  • An MTV "Gears of War: The Road to Launch" Sneak Preview
Not a bad culmination to two years worth of hype. Do you plan on paying attention to this stuff, or will you be too busy actually playing the game?

Joystiq Your GoW Emergence Day planner originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 28 Oct 2006 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>emergence dayEmergenceDayepiceventsgears of warGearsOfWargowSat, 28 Oct 2006 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony keynote at London Games Summit, Games Festival hotting up]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/11/sony-keynote-at-london-games-summit-games-festival-hotting-up/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/11/sony-keynote-at-london-games-summit-games-festival-hotting-up/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/11/sony-keynote-at-london-games-summit-games-festival-hotting-up/#commentsFiled under:

This October, the London Games Festival will be hitting the UK's capital with a whole bevy of gaming events. (If you're in the industry, or you want to be, that is.) First up, we have the European answer to GDC, GDC London, for the development types -- sessions range from the excitingly-titled-yet-probably-dull "Combat: The Ninja Way" through to a Molyneux special on design inspiration.

More a business sort? The Games Summit is up your street, with buzzword-compliant "hard-hitting business content" for all tastes, from ARGs to -- surprise! -- another Molyneux special, this one on Lionhead. The newly-announced Games Summit keynote will be given by Michael Denny of SCEE, focusing on the networked age and digital distribution, which should provoke some interesting thought.

Other events in the Games Festival lineup include the London Game Career Fair and the BAFTA Video Games awards (a British Academy Awards, for games, with more swearing). For those of us interested in playing games, celeb-spotting and the slightly offbeat, events throughout the week of the Festival -- 2-7 October -- will hopefully deliver, with a showcase at HMV's Oxford Street branch and a 'fringe' show which both look to be worth attending.

JoystiqSony keynote at London Games Summit, Games Festival hotting up originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Sep 2006 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conferenceseuropeeventskeynotelgslondonlondon games summitLondonGamesSummitsonyukMon, 11 Sep 2006 09:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Video Games Live hits London on November 25th]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/11/video-games-live-hits-london-on-november-25th/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/11/video-games-live-hits-london-on-november-25th/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/11/video-games-live-hits-london-on-november-25th/#commentsFiled under:

Those of us this side of the pond may have been reading the various Video Games Live tidbits with a detached air of mild interest, but finally we'll be able to get in on the musical action. The concert of videogame music will be hitting London's Hammersmith Apollo on November 25th, and tickets went on sale last week.

We'll be there, so watch out for the Joystiq t-shirt amidst the crowds; now, if only the concert would do a UK or European tour for those of us aware that London isn't the only city on this continent.

JoystiqVideo Games Live hits London on November 25th originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Sep 2006 08:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>concertcultureeuropeeventslondonvideogamesliveMon, 11 Sep 2006 08:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Pics from PAX]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/08/27/pics-from-pax/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/08/27/pics-from-pax/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/08/27/pics-from-pax/#commentsFiled under: ,


John Porcaro from GamerScoreBlog posted a bunch of pics from the Penny Arcade Expo in Seattle. John praises PAX as a "show for gamers rather than media or industry insiders." He's right, letting a bunch of media and industry types into your event is the surest way to screw it up (see E3).

JoystiqPics from PAX originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 27 Aug 2006 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eventsgamerscoreblogjohn porcaroJohnPorcaropenny arcadePennyArcadeSun, 27 Aug 2006 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Summer of XBLA hits San Fran]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/07/11/summer-of-xbla-hits-san-fran/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/07/11/summer-of-xbla-hits-san-fran/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/07/11/summer-of-xbla-hits-san-fran/#commentsFiled under:

John Porcaro of GamerScoreBlog is doling out the last few tickets to tonight's Xbox Live Gold Experience event in San Fancisco. Unfortunately he doesn't give an exact location for this particular "lifestyle initiative."If you're in the Bay Area, try wandering around until you find a bunch of people enjoying hi-def versions of Frogger and Pac-Man. Of course, most fanboys would trade their cheese cubes and free booze for some exciting XBLA news -- say a title or two from Rare. Notice I said "most."

JoystiqSummer of XBLA hits San Fran originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Jul 2006 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcadeeventspartiesprpromotionsxblaTue, 11 Jul 2006 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guitar Hero alongside bands at Download UK]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/26/guitar-hero-alongside-bands-at-download-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/26/guitar-hero-alongside-bands-at-download-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/26/guitar-hero-alongside-bands-at-download-uk/#commentsFiled under: , ,

There's something about playing Guitar Hero that appeals to the exhibitionist in all of us. This year, the UK's Download Festival will cater to that by allowing Guitar Hero players to take to the Third Stage in between acts -- although there will be limited walk-up opportunities, they'd like you to register in advance.

This might not seem like quite such a good idea when fifteen consecutive rockers fail to finish Bark at the Moon on expert, as events like this often lead us to overstretch ourselves in an attempt to show off. However, it's a clever marketing move for RedOctane as well as a great chance to break some of gaming's stereotypes -- or at least the one about us all being self-conscious tone-deaf nerds.

JoystiqGuitar Hero alongside bands at Download UK originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 May 2006 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>downloadeventsguitar heroGuitarHerolive gamingLiveGamingperformancePS2real worldRealWorldFri, 26 May 2006 09:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Girls 'n' Games event: this news is so old]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/19/girls-n-games-event-this-news-is-so-old/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/19/girls-n-games-event-this-news-is-so-old/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/19/girls-n-games-event-this-news-is-so-old/#commentsFiled under: ,

While E3's keynotes were kicking off last week, several academics, developers and advocates of women in gaming gathered at UCLA to discuss girls, games and everything relating to the two. However, from Gamasutra's account of the event, nothing new was really discussed. Some of the key points brought up:
  • Girls play games. (Well, duh.)
  • Developers shouldn't try to focus on "girl game design" -- stereotyping game design by gender leads to missteps.
  • Player-generated content is popular amongst girls, as is social gameplay.
  • "Cuteness" in games, like anime and manga culture in Japan, encourages girls to get involved in gameplay.
  • Women gamers and girl gamers are different; women and teenage girls have different demands on their time.
  • Girls and women shouldn't just be gamers, but developers too.

Continue reading Girls 'n' Games event: this news is so old

JoystiqGirls 'n' Games event: this news is so old originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 May 2006 20:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conferencedebatesdemographicdesigndevelopmente3eventsfemale gamersFemaleGamersgamasutragirl gamersGirlGamersmarketmarketingnichepanelswomenwomen in gamesWomenInGamesFri, 19 May 2006 20:55:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO players convene after E3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/16/mmo-players-convene-after-e3/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/16/mmo-players-convene-after-e3/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/16/mmo-players-convene-after-e3/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Those of us heavily invested in massively multiplayer games are part of a community, just as FPS clans have a brotherhood borne out of hours of playing together. Events like BlizzCon provide an opportunity for MMO guilds and players to meet up -- for the unknown to meet the infamous.

E3 may have been over, but that didn't stop NCsoft arranging a player get-together last Saturday. Over 400 players signed up, some travelling from as far as Arizona for this one evening. While NCsoft had rented out a LAN centre for the event, players spent just as much time talking as they did playing, with a sizeable contingent of developers and community managers on hand to help the event along. NCsoft celebrities including Richard Garriott and Matt "Positron" Miller attended the event, showing a pleasing commitment to the player base.

Continue reading MMO players convene after E3

JoystiqMMO players convene after E3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 16 May 2006 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>celebritiescity of heroesCityOfHeroese3e32006eventsfatal1tyguild warsGuildWarsLANmmommorpgncsoftpartiespmsTue, 16 May 2006 12:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Competitive Brain Age: Joystiq pwns]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/12/competitive-brain-age-joystiq-pwns/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/12/competitive-brain-age-joystiq-pwns/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/12/competitive-brain-age-joystiq-pwns/#commentsFiled under: , ,



At the Nintendo booth, people have been constantly queueing for Brain Age. Calculating by yourself is fun, but it doesn't come close to the competitive thrill of remembering your times tables faster than the next guy.

We're proud to say we won our tournament, coming in with the respectable (for day three of E3) time of 28 seconds. Interestingly, the runner-up (with a very close time) was also a girl, with the two guys taking over twice as long to finish -- draw what conclusions you will from that.

JoystiqCompetitive Brain Age: Joystiq pwns originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 May 2006 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boothbrainbrain ageBrainAgecompetitionDSE3e32006eventshigh scoreHighScorenintendoFri, 12 May 2006 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sex talk: conference agenda released]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/26/sex-talk-conference-agenda-released/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/26/sex-talk-conference-agenda-released/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/26/sex-talk-conference-agenda-released/#commentsFiled under: ,


The agenda for the Sex in Videogames conference has been published, and there are some interesting topics up for debate in San Fran this June. From the cultural to the technological, the conference will cover such diverse topics as cybersex, emergent behaviour, technology for realistic simulation and MMOEGs.

This will definitely be one to watch; sex is becoming part of gaming as a specialist genre, as well as becoming integrated into our everyday gaming lives with emergent behaviour. As with other media before it, the human interest in sex is likely to fuel some interesting developments in games -- and not just in the field of "jiggle physics".

[Via Sex & Games]

JoystiqSex talk: conference agenda released originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 Apr 2006 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adult gameAdultGameconferenceconference agendaConferenceAgendacybersexeroticaeventsmarketssexsex and gamesSexAndGamesWed, 26 Apr 2006 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Virtual worlds' selective reflections of reality]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/02/09/virtual-worlds-selective-reflections-of-reality/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/02/09/virtual-worlds-selective-reflections-of-reality/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/02/09/virtual-worlds-selective-reflections-of-reality/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The announcement of Valentine's Day events for both City of Heroes and World of Warcraft comes hot on the heels of a debate around virtual identity sparked off by a LGBT-friendly guild. The creation of in-game events that reflect popular world holidays is increasingly fashionable; it seems no week goes by without some new festival being celebrated in WoW's capital cities.

However, by first stamping out discussions of sexuality, and then opening up the floodgates by theming an event around love, what are Blizzard thinking? Will players be able to flirt with same-sex NPCs or will they be instantly banned for even venturing a hug? We hope that there will be some procedures in place to help stop harassment, as it can be difficult to throw off determined admirers at the best of times.

As for those gamers who prefer their MMOs with a dash of escapism, it seems to be a dying trend, especially amongst popular Western games.

[Image from the Alter Ego project]

JoystiqVirtual worlds' selective reflections of reality originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Feb 2006 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contenteventsmmogmmorpgsPCvirtual worldsVirtualWorldsThu, 09 Feb 2006 11:00:00 EST