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[Mass Effect 3 'Mission Command' Facebook app offers in-game goodies]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/mass-effect-3-mission-command-facebook-app-offers-in-game-good/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/mass-effect-3-mission-command-facebook-app-offers-in-game-good/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/mass-effect-3-mission-command-facebook-app-offers-in-game-good/#comments Microsoft has launched a Facebook app called Mass Effect 3 Mission Command, that both serves as promotion for the upcoming Mass Effect 3, and an opportunity to get some in-game items. You "log in" to Mission Command (which grants EA access to your Facebook account and email), and then you have to fulfill missions like recruiting your friends, posting pickup lines for Liara, downloading the demo, or sharing movies of you pretending to be in the game.

The first prize on offer is an Xbox Live avatar prop of the Normandy (presumably the same one found in the Xbox 360 Collector's Edition), and later missions will give away an Xbox 360 console complete with the game and Kinect. Sure, doing missions for EA's promotional gain might not be quite as heroic as saving the universe from the reapers, but even Commander Shepard finds the time to sell out occasionally.

JoystiqMass Effect 3 'Mission Command' Facebook app offers in-game goodies originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 21:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>commander-shepardeafacebookkinectmass-effect-3microsoftpromotionsweepstakesxboxThu, 02 Feb 2012 21:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Harmonix working on unannounced XBLA, PSN and Facebook game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/harmonix-working-on-unannounced-xbla-psn-and-facebook-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/harmonix-working-on-unannounced-xbla-psn-and-facebook-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/harmonix-working-on-unannounced-xbla-psn-and-facebook-game/#comments Rock Band 3 senior designer Brian Chan is working on a new project for Harmonix, intended for three platforms that rarely receive the same games: XBLA, PSN, and Facebook. That's about all the detail we have on that project, other than that Chan is working as lead designer -- as this information is straight from Chan's resume. Of course, judging by Harmonix's history, it'll either be a music game or motion-controlled hoverboarding.

Harmonix was reticent about the project when we asked, unable to give us a clear answer due to the positioning of tongue in cheek. "As we've stated before," a representative told Joystiq, "our studio is growing and hard at work on a variety of titles. In a storied Harmonix tradition, our designers start working on those games before they're publicly announced." Harmonix will have more information "in the coming months, probably via a LinkedIn update or something - we haven't decided."

JoystiqHarmonix working on unannounced XBLA, PSN and Facebook game originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 Jan 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>facebookharmonixmicrosoftpcplaystationps3psnxblaxboxMon, 30 Jan 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gaikai full-game streaming to start 3 months after launching on Facebook]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/24/gaikai-full-game-streaming-to-start-3-months-after-launching-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/24/gaikai-full-game-streaming-to-start-3-months-after-launching-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/24/gaikai-full-game-streaming-to-start-3-months-after-launching-on/#comments Gaikai is set to launch full-game streaming services on its network of gaming and entertainment websites, ramping up its current demo-only model, GamesIndustry reports. After launching its cloud service on Facebook, Gaikai will roll out full-game streaming on retailer sites such as YouTube, Best Buy and Walmart, and on publisher sites such as EA and Ubisoft.

Full-game streaming will go live about 90 days after the Facebook service begins, which should be soon, Gaikai head Dave Perry says. Gaikai's main competition is OnLive, but Perry says there is a huge difference between the two companies. "They have to modify the game; they have to get the source code to the game," Perry said. "Gaikai doesn't require modification of the game."

There are no direct plans to put Gaikai on console, but Perry can see the need for cloud services on all platforms: "You do not want to be the console that can't do this," he said. "You do not want to be the retail website that doesn't have playable games on it. You don't want to be the gaming website that you can't buy a game from.

"I don't want to take your console from your cold dead hands, that's not the case at all. You're going to continue to play the way you play, but just imagine that you could have an opinion on all games because you've been able to try all of them."

JoystiqGaikai full-game streaming to start 3 months after launching on Facebook originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Best-BuycloudEAfacebookgaikaimacmicrosoftnintendopcplaystationps3streamingUbisoftwiixboxyoutubeTue, 24 Jan 2012 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tour Call of Duty Elite's virtual world through the eyes of Modern Warfare 3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/tour-call-of-duty-elites-virtual-world-through-the-eyes-of-mode/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/tour-call-of-duty-elites-virtual-world-through-the-eyes-of-mode/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/tour-call-of-duty-elites-virtual-world-through-the-eyes-of-mode/#comments
Worried about Mom on Facebook infiltrating your super elite squad of Modern Warfare 3 multiplayers? It looks like that won't be an issue with Call of Duty Elite's Facebok integration into MW3, though that guy from high school you don't wanna talk to might end up bugging you constantly. The good with the bad, folks.

JoystiqTour Call of Duty Elite's virtual world through the eyes of Modern Warfare 3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Nov 2011 05:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidbeachheadbeachhead-studioscall-of-duty-elitecall-of-duty-modern-warfare-3cod-eliteelitefacebookgameplayinfinity-wardiosipadiphonemacmicrosoftmobilemodern-warfare-3pcplaystationps3sledgehammersledgehammer-gamesxboxFri, 04 Nov 2011 05:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Funcom wants to tell you about the Dragon's Secret World]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/23/funcom-wants-to-tell-you-about-the-dragons-secret-world/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/23/funcom-wants-to-tell-you-about-the-dragons-secret-world/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/23/funcom-wants-to-tell-you-about-the-dragons-secret-world/#comments
Playing telephone with sensitive information is never a wise decision, which is why Funcom is hosting a Q&A session on Facebook today to answer fan questions about the mysterious Dragon society in The Secret World. The session starts at 2 p.m. EST, but if you have a burning question go ahead and submit it now for the devs to answer later -- keep in mind, they're only answering questions about the Dragon secret society.

If you don't know anything about the Dragon yet -- as is the case with any good secret society, especially one in an already secret world -- check out the backstory, the above teaser and the gallery below. The quest to gather this content claimed the lives of dozens (of potato chips while we watched it download), so take it seriously, you fools.

Gallery: The Secret World (The Dragon)

JoystiqFuncom wants to tell you about the Dragon's Secret World originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 23 Oct 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>facebookFuncommicrosoftpcquestion-and-answerthe-secret-worldxboxSun, 23 Oct 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Giveaway: Check Facebook and Twitter for free Leedmees codes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/09/giveaway-check-facebook-and-twitter-for-free-leedmees-codes/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/09/giveaway-check-facebook-and-twitter-for-free-leedmees-codes/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/09/giveaway-check-facebook-and-twitter-for-free-leedmees-codes/#comments
We at Joystiq are fans of Leedmees, the XBLA game for Kinect where you and a friend can guide creatures to safety using your body to form bridges and paths. So we're looking to share the love and giveaway a bunch of keys to our Facebook and Twitter followers. Keep an eye on the Joystiq feed(s) today for a chance to pick up a key and get your own free copy of Leedmees.

Good luck, and a special thanks to Konami for providing the keys.

Gallery: Leedmees (9/9/11)

JoystiqGiveaway: Check Facebook and Twitter for free Leedmees codes originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 Sep 2011 15:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>facebookkonamileedmeesmicrosofttwitterxboxFri, 09 Sep 2011 15:50:00 EST<![CDATA[EA celebrates Independence Day with a massive sale]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/01/ea-celebrates-independence-day-with-a-massive-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/01/ea-celebrates-independence-day-with-a-massive-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/01/ea-celebrates-independence-day-with-a-massive-sale/#comments Rather than watching your grandma mouth along the words to Lee Greenwood's timeless Americana classic "God Bless the USA" one more time this Independence Day, wouldn't you rather giver her a run for the money in one of the many Hasbro Family Game Night games? EA's offering just such a possibility, putting nine of its Hasbro titles on XBL up for sale at 50 percent off, and offering a swath of deals on other platforms on July 4th.

Perhaps you were looking to freedom-ize the necromorphs of Dead Space on iPad during your independence celebration? That's also on sale for .99 cents, alongside a handful of other iOS titles. And if you're more of the PC type, everything from Mass Effect 2 ($12) to Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit ($18) is marked down on Origin.

Continue reading EA celebrates Independence Day with a massive sale

JoystiqEA celebrates Independence Day with a massive sale originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Jul 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4th-of-julyeaea-mobileelectronic-artsfacebookhasbroindependence-dayioskindlemacMass-Effect-2microsoftmobileoriginpcplayfishpogopogo.comsaletiger-woods-onlinexboxxbox-live-arcadeFri, 01 Jul 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: LulzSec hacking group releases thousands of account logins, includes Xbox Live and Facebook [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/17/report-lulzsec-hacking-group-releases-xbox-live-facebook-login/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/17/report-lulzsec-hacking-group-releases-xbox-live-facebook-login/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/17/report-lulzsec-hacking-group-releases-xbox-live-facebook-login/#comments Adding to the list of game-related companies it has attacked, LulzSec yesterday claimed to have stolen and leaked the login and password information for approximately 62,000 "internet accounts," reports the CBC. The stolen info is said to comprise logins/passwords from Facebook, Twitter, "dating sites," PayPal and, notoriously, Xbox Live. It is also claimed that the majority of accounts are from the United states, though several other countries are named in the report.

The account database info is still currently available through the LulzSec website (though we'd suggest not visiting) -- various folks on Twitter responding to the group claim to have done a variety of things with the information, from having a large pack of condoms delivered to an elderly woman, to one person saying they bilked a PayPal account for £250 ($404).

Earlier this week, the group attacked and successfully took down a handful of game industry websites, including EVE Online, Minecraft and The Escapist. All three sites quickly recovered and have been online since. Microsoft has yet to respond to request for comment on yesterday evening's alleged breach.

Update: Microsoft has released a statement, which states that Xbox Live was not compromised to the best of Microsoft's knowledge, and the logins/passwords were released at random, with people encouraged to try said information on services like Xbox Live (among others). "This group appears to have posted a list of thousands of potential email addresses and passwords, and encouraged users to try them across various online sites like Xbox Live in the event one of the users happens to use the same password and email address combination. At this time we do not have any evidence Xbox Live has been compromised. However we take the security of our service seriously and work on an ongoing basis to improve it against evolving threats."

JoystiqReport: LulzSec hacking group releases thousands of account logins, includes Xbox Live and Facebook [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 Jun 2011 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>account-infobreachfacebookhackerslulzsecmicrosoftpaypalreporttwitterxboxxbox-liveFri, 17 Jun 2011 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Latest Assassin's Creed teaser hints at Istanbul setting [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/latest-assassins-creed-teaser-hints-at-istanbul-setting/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/latest-assassins-creed-teaser-hints-at-istanbul-setting/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/latest-assassins-creed-teaser-hints-at-istanbul-setting/#comments We'll be honest -- the latest teaser posted on Facebook for the forthcoming Assassin's Creed game reveal was outright baffling to us. Despite containing major clues like the very clear image you see above (an Ottoman Tughra) and a string of numbers flashed twice ("24061459"), not to mention the friggin' Hagia Sofia (it's kinda famous), we somehow didn't put together that the teaser was very seriously hinting at an Istanbul setting for the next game. Thankfully, Turkish gaming site Oyungezer has plenty of insight to offer.

The string of numbers? That's a stand-in for "June 24, 1459," or for you Auditore family historians, Ezio's date of birth. And the Ottoman Tughra? Turns out that's an official seal or signature for a sultan, used to sign official documents and for money printing, among other things. It's like Prince's symbol, basically, except it originates with the Ottoman Empire rather than an egomaniacal musician.

Anyway, between the major landmark (Hagia Sofia) and the Tughra, we're guessing the big reveal will somehow center on Istanbul, potentially in the mid-1400s. As for when we'll find out, your guess is as good as ours -- the meter towards the next teaser is at 20 percent as of now, with no indication of how many unveilings are left in Ubisoft's plan.

Update: The fifth teaser has now gone live, and it features a man who looks suspiciously like Assassin's Creed 1's main character, Altair. It also features a two-headed eagle -- a symbol quite popular in the Byzantine Empire -- and the number string "11011165," which is presumably a placeholder for January 11, 1165. What happened on the eleventh day of January, 1165, you ask? That's a good question. Other than some unexciting interactions with Russia, not much was happening in Constantinople/Istanbul that day. Perhaps the next teaser will clue us in!

[Thanks Sinan!]

Continue reading Latest Assassin's Creed teaser hints at Istanbul setting [update]

JoystiqLatest Assassin's Creed teaser hints at Istanbul setting [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 May 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ac-revealassassins-creedassassins-creed-revelationsfacebookhagia-sofiaistanbulmicrosoftottoman-empireottoman-tughrapcplaystationps3tughratwitterubisoftxboxWed, 04 May 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PopCap considering IPO, not likely revealing any new IP in 2011]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/07/popcap-considering-ipo-not-likely-revealing-any-new-ip-in-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/07/popcap-considering-ipo-not-likely-revealing-any-new-ip-in-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/07/popcap-considering-ipo-not-likely-revealing-any-new-ip-in-2011/#comments We're just gonna level with you, folks -- we're scared. Frankly, reading this weekend's CNBC report that Plants vs. Zombies developer PopCap Games is considering an IPO worries us greatly. In so many words, it means that the quirky indie studio could go from private to public, meaning that the company could go from being beholden to itself to being beholden to investors. It also means that PopCap could expand far more rapidly -- and that you could own a piece of the action.

As it stands, the studio pulled in over $100 million last year in revenues and, according to CNBC, is the third largest Facebook developer -- handily besting Disney's user numbers with just two games of its own (versus Disney's 37!). PopCap doesn't deny the possibility of the IPO -- it evenregistered with the US Securities and Exchange Commission -- with company prez David Roberts saying, "I do think we'll be ready internally. Whether the market is ready remains to be seen. It has got to be right for us."

Amazingly, CNBC also asked Roberts if he would comment on the long ago trademarked "Yetitrain" name. He didn't. That name, however, is still amazing. Unfortunately, we may not be hearing anything about it anytime soon. Roberts stated, "Don't hold your breath" when asked about the possibilty of a new franchise being announced this year.

JoystiqPopCap considering IPO, not likely revealing any new IP in 2011 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 07 Mar 2011 11:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessdavid-robertsdsfacebookinitial-public-offeringipomacmicrosoftmobilenintendopcPlants-vs-Zombiesplaystationpopcappopcap-gamesps3pspsonyxboxyetitrainMon, 07 Mar 2011 11:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Konami seeking Metal Gear Solid fans for lengthy survey]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/04/konami-seeking-metal-gear-solid-fans-for-lengthy-survey/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/04/konami-seeking-metal-gear-solid-fans-for-lengthy-survey/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/04/konami-seeking-metal-gear-solid-fans-for-lengthy-survey/#comments How did you feel about the downloadable Vocaloid content for Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker? When encountering an enemy, what tactics do you use? Would you be interested in a Metal Gear game on an Android phone?

Konami is very, very curious about what fans think about its Metal Gear franchise. A "Survey Mission" on the company's Facebook page lets fans opine about nearly every intricate detail about the series, going all the way back to the MSX era. Who knows? Your votes may end up influencing the future of the franchise! But be warned: this is a very, very long survey.

[Thanks, Kody]

JoystiqKonami seeking Metal Gear Solid fans for lengthy survey originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Mar 2011 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsfacebookkonamimetal-gear-solidMetal-Gear-Solid-Peace-Walkermicrosoftmobilenintendoplaystationps3pspsonysurveyxboxFri, 04 Mar 2011 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood multiplayer map when Facebook page hits 1m fans]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/06/free-assassins-creed-brotherhood-multiplayer-map/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/06/free-assassins-creed-brotherhood-multiplayer-map/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/06/free-assassins-creed-brotherhood-multiplayer-map/#commentsAssassin's Creed: Brotherhood DLC Accept enough charity and, eventually, you're going to be asked for a favor. After handing out two free DLC packs in the forms of Animus Project Update 1.0 and Animus Project Update 2.0, Ubisoft is asking fans to give something back if they want another new multiplayer map in Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood: simply "Like" the official Assassin's Creed Facebook page. Once it hits 1 million Facebook fans, Ubi will release a new t-shirt to "commemorate the event"; share a "THANK YOU" all-caps video, featuring AssCreedBroHo devs; honor a 24-hour, 15% discount at UbiWorkshop; conduct special giveaways on the Facebook page; and (finally!) release a new multiplayer map titled "Venezia by Night."

Right now, the Assassin's Creed series Facebook page has 952,177 fans. If you're not mathematically inclined, we'll do the hard work for you: 47,823 of you need to head to Facebook and give that Like button a real working over. Or don't. Simply take and take and take and never give anything back. Is that how you want people to think of you?

[Thanks, Josh]

JoystiqFree Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood multiplayer map when Facebook page hits 1m fans originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 06 Feb 2011 22:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Assassins-Creed-BrotherhoodAssassins-Creed-MultiplayerDLCFacebookmicrosoftplaystationps3Venezia-by-NightxboxSun, 06 Feb 2011 22:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Monster Hunter again captures 'center stage' in Capcom 9-month fiscal report]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/02/monster-hunter-again-captures-center-stage-in-capcom-9-month-f/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/02/monster-hunter-again-captures-center-stage-in-capcom-9-month-f/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/02/monster-hunter-again-captures-center-stage-in-capcom-9-month-f/#comments At this time last year, Capcom was thanking Monster Hunter Tri for helping the company boost its 2009 year-end financial results. Today, Capcom heralded the monstrous shipments of Monster Hunter Freedom 3 that closed out 2010 and propelled the publisher's profits up nearly 300 percent in a nine-month period. During the first three quarters of its current fiscal year (which ends March 31, 2011), Capcom netted ¥6.836 billion (nearly $84 million) in profit -- up from just ¥1.731 the same period the year before. Sales of "Consumer Online Games" (what we call "video games," excluding mobile content) were the driving force, totaling ¥54.057 billion ($663.6 million) -- a bit more than 76 percent of total sales for the business, which includes arcade and amusement ("slot machine") operations.

Joining Monster Hunter Freedom 3 (currently only available in Japan), Capcom noted three additional "million-sellers" in the nine-month period (April-December 2010): Dead Rising 2 (with more than 2 million units shipped); Super Street Fighter IV (1.6 million units shipped "mainly to Europe and the United States"); and Lost Planet 2 (1.5 million sold -- "though the figure was less than [the] projected shipment").

During the period, Capcom also worked on "rebuilding the development departments comprising our core competence" in an effort to shift greater resources to its mobile operations, with specific focus on social gaming. Sales of "Mobile Contents" for the three quarters amounted to a modest ¥2.383 billion ($29.25 million), led by a bevy of iPhone releases and some "positive surprises," including the popularity of The Smurfs' Village on Facebook. And Capcom hasn't even accounted for all the MaXplosion press in January yet!

JoystiqMonster Hunter again captures 'center stage' in Capcom 9-month fiscal report originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Feb 2011 11:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomcapcom-mobiledead-rising-2earningsfacebookfinancialfy-2010lost-planet-2microsoftmillion-sellersmobilemonster-hunter-freedom-3monster-hunter-portable-3rdplaystationps3pspq3salessonysuper-street-fighter-ivthe-smurfs-villagexboxWed, 02 Feb 2011 11:49:00 EST<![CDATA[Dragon Age Legends Facebook game unlocks items in Dragon Age 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/03/dragon-age-legends-facebook-game-unlocks-items-in-dragon-age-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/03/dragon-age-legends-facebook-game-unlocks-items-in-dragon-age-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/03/dragon-age-legends-facebook-game-unlocks-items-in-dragon-age-2/#commentsDragon Age Legends is a Facebook-based strategy RPG launching this February. Perhaps more importantly, it's a method through which you'll be able to unlock stuff in the upcoming Dragon Age 2. Legends takes place in Kaiten, a city in the Dragon Age 2 setting of the Free Marches. Players ally themselves with a Viscount named Ravi (nephew of Khedra) in order to save Ravi's son Elton from danger and protect the Free Marches.

"Alongside their Facebook friends," according to EA, "players will take on challenging quests within an engaging storyline, earning loot, sharing rewards and growing their kingdom." EA 2D general manager Mark Spenner hopes to "raise the quality bar" of Facebook games with this offering, in order to draw traditional gamers.

While we don't know exactly how Legends' cooperative tactical combat works, we'll find out soon enough: EA will hold a beta for the title starting in January, with invitations distributed to lucky EA account holders who have Facebook accounts and subscriptions to the Dragon Age Newsletter -- and who sign up for the beta, of course.

JoystiqDragon Age Legends Facebook game unlocks items in Dragon Age 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Nov 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dragon-age-2dragon-age-legendsfacebookmicrosoftpcplaystationps3strategy-rpgxboxWed, 03 Nov 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Assassin's Creed Facebook game arrives Oct. 1, interacts with Brotherhood [update: live now]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/30/assassins-creed-facebook-game-arrives-oct-1-interacts-with-br/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/30/assassins-creed-facebook-game-arrives-oct-1-interacts-with-br/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/30/assassins-creed-facebook-game-arrives-oct-1-interacts-with-br/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Leading the charge of what Ubisoft is calling "companion games," Assassin's Creed: Project Legacy will launch on Facebook tomorrow, October 1 immediately (guess it just couldn't wait). The strategy title, described as being similar to Mafia Wars, will "unlock extra content" in Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood, which hits on November 16, in addition to providing a way to gain bonus XP in the console game.

On the flipside, playing Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood will "unlock up to 25 exclusive missions" in the Facebook game, as well as experience and in-game currency. It's what Ubisoft is calling a "virtuous cycle." Hey -- isn't that what Big Boss went on in Snake Eater? Oh. Guess not.

JoystiqAssassin's Creed Facebook game arrives Oct. 1, interacts with Brotherhood [update: live now] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Sep 2010 12:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Assassins-CreedAssassins-Creed-BrotherhoodAssassins-Creed-Multiplayercompanion-gamefacebookmicrosoftpcplaystationps3ubisoftubisoft-digital-day-2010Ubisoft-MontrealxboxThu, 30 Sep 2010 12:05:00 EST<![CDATA[DeathSpank soundtracks could be released for free in exchange for 'Likes']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/23/deathspank-soundtracks-could-be-released-for-free-in-exchange-fo/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/23/deathspank-soundtracks-could-be-released-for-free-in-exchange-fo/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/23/deathspank-soundtracks-could-be-released-for-free-in-exchange-fo/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Are you looking for a set of tunes to listen to while vanquishing scores of foes in search of marginally improved equipment? Sounds like you need the Jeff Tymoschuk-composed soundtracks to DeathSpank and its follow-up, Thongs of Virtue. As revealed on the game's site, the soundtracks might be released for free if enough fans "Like" Hothead Games' official Facebook page. Oh, and in this case, Hothead has quantified "enough fans" as "4,000 fans."

At the time of this writing, the page is currently sitting at a little under 700 members, so you've got a ways to go before the albums are released. Still, if there's anything we know about you guys, it's that you aren't quitters. You're not quitters, are you? You don't seem like quitters.

[Thanks, Patrick]

JoystiqDeathSpank soundtracks could be released for free in exchange for 'Likes' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Sep 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DeathSpank-Thongs-of-Virtuefacebookhothead-gamesmicrosoftplaystationps3psnsoundtrackxblaxboxThu, 23 Sep 2010 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo: Reach marketing campaign flexes giant robo-arm]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/23/halo-reach-marketing-campaign-flexes-giant-robo-arm/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/23/halo-reach-marketing-campaign-flexes-giant-robo-arm/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/23/halo-reach-marketing-campaign-flexes-giant-robo-arm/#commentsFiled under: , ,

What's gonna give Halo: Reach the best shot at topping Modern Warfare 2's $310 million in day-one sales? Marketing. Much to no one's surprise, Microsoft is splurging on its biggest game campaign to date, according to Advertising Age. While Reach's marketing budget has not been disclosed, it's expected to easily top Halo 3's reported $6.5 million bill.

The ad campaign, which began in earnest with a big-budget plug ... for the multiplayer beta (way back in April), will continue to use live-action segments to attempt to forge an emotional connection with a broad audience across TV and the web. "We're trying to get people to connect back to their lives, not computer graphics or something overly sci-fi," Taylor Smith, director of global marketing communications for Xbox, told Ad Age. "Live action is a way to capture that." In particular, director Noam Murro (Smart People) has created three live-action short films that depict life on planet Reach before the Covenant invasion.

Meanwhile, potential buyers will be urged to "remember Reach" as they consume Pepsi products. A renewed partnership between Microsoft and the snack-time mogul will put Halo branding on some 300 million Mountain Dew bottles and 30 million Doritos bags beginning next month. Of course, to top past efforts, Microsoft will expand the Reach campaign beyond these somewhat pedestrian reminders: Cue massive KUKA KR 140 robotic arm!

The viral site RememberReach.com, which becomes fully operational at 3AM ET tomorrow, features a user-generated light sculpture of Reach's Noble Team, created by the robo-arm and some fancy camera equipment. Typically used to assemble cars, this KUKA bot has been outfitted with an LED and stationed in an undisclosed San Francisco warehouse. As detailed by GameLife, visitors will direct the machine to plot the 54,000 points of light that will form this Noble Team "monument." Bizarre.

Halo: Reach launches on September 14.

JoystiqHalo: Reach marketing campaign flexes giant robo-arm originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Aug 2010 13:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adsadvertisingbudgetdoritosfacebookHaloHalo-ReachKuka-KR-140marketingmicrosoftmountain-dewNoam-Murropepsiremeber-reachrobotsculptureviralxboxMon, 23 Aug 2010 13:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Crackdown 2 demo now available; Facebook game unlocks bonuses]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/21/crackdown-2-demo-now-available-facebook-game-unlocks-bonuses/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/21/crackdown-2-demo-now-available-facebook-game-unlocks-bonuses/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/21/crackdown-2-demo-now-available-facebook-game-unlocks-bonuses/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Can't wait to earn 'Cheevos for the many, many heads you'll be busting in Crackdown 2? You can get an early start today -- the 1GB demo of the game, now available on Xbox Live Marketplace, features accelerated character leveling, four-player co-op and the ability to start earning Achievements, which will fully unlock when you boot up the retail version of the game, coming July 6.

In addition, the Crackdown 2-themed Facebook game Chuck's Duck 2 unlocks a new difficulty in the demo and a multiplayer weapon for use in the retail version of the game. Appropriately, said weapon is an exploding, sticky rubber duck. That ought to strike some fear into the hearts of Pacific City's mutant inhabitants, shouldn't it?


Xbox.com: Add Crackdown 2 demo to your Xbox 360 download queue

JoystiqCrackdown 2 demo now available; Facebook game unlocks bonuses originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 Jun 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bonusChucks-DucksCrackdown-2demofacebookmicrosoftMicrosoft-Game-StudiosRiot-Act-2ruffian-gamesXBLMxboxMon, 21 Jun 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ben Kingsley joins Fable 3 voice cast]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/06/ben-kingsley-joins-fable-3-voice-cast/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/06/ben-kingsley-joins-fable-3-voice-cast/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/06/ben-kingsley-joins-fable-3-voice-cast/#commentsIf you thought that the Fable 3 voice cast couldn't get any classier, you'd be wrong. But how, you ask? The game already packs the wonderful John Cleese and the inimitable Stephen Fry, you say. Well, guess what? Ben Kingsley, that's what. Oscar-winning, Gandhi-playing, Ben Kingsley. The actor informed CVG that he'll be portraying the "king of Mist Peak," whom Kingsley described as "a wonderful wizard character." He added that acting in video games is "very demanding."

And with that, maybe it's time to forgive Mr. Kingsley for Bloodrayne. Then again, maybe we should wait to see how that Prince of Persia movie turns out.

[Image: David Shankbone]

JoystiqBen Kingsley joins Fable 3 voice cast originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 May 2010 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ben-kingsleyfablefable-3facebookfashionlionheadlionhead-studiosmgsmicrosoft-game-studiosThu, 06 May 2010 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Assassin's Creed viral message appears on Facebook]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/04/assassins-creed-viral-message-appears-on-facebook/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/04/assassins-creed-viral-message-appears-on-facebook/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/04/assassins-creed-viral-message-appears-on-facebook/#comments Those sneaky Templars, always threatening the world through Ubisoft-owned Facebook pages! Oh, is that a new development? Assassin's Creed series villain Dr. Vidic (we don't blame you if you don't remember who he is -- he's this guy) recently posted a sinister statement on Ubi's Assassin's Creed 2 Facebook page. "It is the time of our rising. A new age enters and a great battle looms. Templar destiny is at hand and waiting for you." Hey, at least he's not yelling at Lucy, right?

After Ubisoft's reveal of a forthcoming AC "episode" with multiplayer functionality coming by April 2011, we're happy to break out our jump to conclusions mat for some good ol' fashioned speculation, but we can't be sure if "Vidic's" words hint at an upcoming reveal of said game ("a great battle looms") or not. A domain registration by Ubi for Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood from earlier this year doesn't hurt our case either, but again, without the publisher's confirmation we're not sure exactly what the message means. But we are pretty sure that we're in for some not-so-exciting social media marketing.

[Via Eurogamer]

JoystiqAssassin's Creed viral message appears on Facebook originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 May 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>assassins-creedassassins-creed-2assassins-creed-brotherhoodfacebookmarketingMicrosoftsocial-mediaubisoftviralwarren-vidicXbox-360Tue, 04 May 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Sims 3 coming to PS3, Xbox 360, Wii and DS this fall]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/27/the-sims-3-coming-to-ps3-xbox-360-wii-and-ds-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/27/the-sims-3-coming-to-ps3-xbox-360-wii-and-ds-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/27/the-sims-3-coming-to-ps3-xbox-360-wii-and-ds-this-fall/#comments As promised, last year's best-selling PC franchise is finally coming to consoles, and just in time for the holiday season. EA has announced that The Sims 3 is in development for PS3, Xbox 360, Wii and DS, with all versions planned for fall release. The console versions promise "all-new" features, like "Karma Powers" that determine whether your Sim can "get lucky" or, on the other end of the spectrum, experience an "epic fail." In addition, the PS3 and Xbox 360 editions will include Facebook connectivity, so you can share Trophy and Achievement updates with friends.

The Wii version will feature an exclusive beach town, complete with its own residents, careers and "lifetime wishes"; and the DS version will introduce a new "Story Mode," a first for a handheld Sims game, allowing players to go through a "complete life simulation."

"We're bringing players the best console and handheld game for The Sims franchise to date and are excited to offer a unique experience for all types of gamers on their platform of choice," said executive producer Sam Player in EA's announcement. And there's good reason for the publisher to be excited, too -- considering the franchise has already generated over $2.5 billion in revenue for EA. We can already hear EA's coffers quivering in anticipation.

Gallery: The Sims 3 (Console Editions)

JoystiqThe Sims 3 coming to PS3, Xbox 360, Wii and DS this fall originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 Apr 2010 09:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consolesDSeaea-playElectronic-ArtsfacebookMicrosoftNintendosimsthe-simsthe-sims-3WiiXbox-360Tue, 27 Apr 2010 09:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Tricked again! RUSE delayed to September]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/24/tricked-again-ruse-delayed-to-september/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/24/tricked-again-ruse-delayed-to-september/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/24/tricked-again-ruse-delayed-to-september/#comments Alright, RUSE dev team at Ubisoft, that's quite enough! This is at least the fourth time your game has been pushed back from a retail release and frankly, we're tired of thinking up punny headlines based on your game's title at this point. So we'll just be straight up with you, dearest reader: RUSE's Facebook page has been updated by the development team reflecting another delay until sometime in September.

The note cites "massive feedback" from the game's beta users as the cause of said delay, and explains that, "this extra time will allow us to implement many of your suggestions and improve the multiplayer experience while polishing the overall game." So, will we finally get to play RUSE in September? We're gonna go ahead and say "maybe ... we think."

[Via RockPaperShotgun]

JoystiqTricked again! RUSE delayed to September originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 24 Apr 2010 02:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>delayfacebookMicrosoftq3-2010release-datertsruseubisoftXbox-360Sat, 24 Apr 2010 02:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Joyswag: The Modern Warfare 2 'Stimulus Package' DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/01/joyswag-win-the-modern-warfare-2-stimulus-package-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/01/joyswag-win-the-modern-warfare-2-stimulus-package-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/01/joyswag-win-the-modern-warfare-2-stimulus-package-dlc/#comments Want to avoid mapathy? We're going to be giving away five codes for the recently released map pack for Modern Warfare 2. How do you enter? Simply join our Facebook page. Then, check the page beginning around 4PM ET for the entry form post. Once it's live, leave a comment on the Facebook post to enter the giveaway. Commenting on this post will NOT earn you an entry!

To enter this giveaway:
  • Join the Joystiq fan page on Facebook. At around 4PM ET, leave a comment on the entry form.
  • You must be 18 years or older and a resident of the US or Canada (excluding Quebec).
  • Limit 1 entry per person.
  • The entry period ends at 4:30PM ET on Thursday, April 1.
  • At that time, we'll select 5 winners from the eligible commenters to receive a code for the Modern Warfare 2 "Stimulus Pack" DLC (ARV $15). Make sure your privacy settings allow for direct messages to receive a code.
  • For a list of complete rules, click here.
What is Joyswag? Since we don't keep the games and merchandise we receive for review or promotional purposes, it becomes "Joyswag," which is passed along to our readers. Please note that Joyswag may be in "used" condition. For more info on our policy, click here.

JoystiqJoyswag: The Modern Warfare 2 'Stimulus Package' DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 01 Apr 2010 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>facebookjoyswagmodern-warfare-2Thu, 01 Apr 2010 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Joyswag: Get into the Lost Planet 2 multiplayer beta]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/31/get-into-the-lost-planet-2-multiplayer-beta/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/31/get-into-the-lost-planet-2-multiplayer-beta/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/31/get-into-the-lost-planet-2-multiplayer-beta/#comments Do you want early access to the Lost Planet 2 multiplayer beta? We're giving away codes -- ten for Xbox 360 owners and ten for PS3 owners -- to get early access to Capcom's upcoming online shooter. How do you enter? Simply join our Facebook page. Then, check the page beginning around 5PM ET for the entry form post. Once it's live, leave a comment on the Facebook post to enter the giveaway. Commenting on this post will NOT earn you an entry!

To enter this giveaway:
  • Join the Joystiq fan page on Facebook. At around 5PM ET, leave a comment on the entry form.
  • You must be 18 years or older and a resident of the US or Canada (excluding Quebec).
  • Limit 1 entry per person.
  • The entry period ends at 5:30PM ET on Wednesday, March 31.
  • At that time, we'll select 20 winners from the eligible commenters to receive a code for either the PS3 or Xbox 360 version of the Lost Planet 2 multiplayer beta. Prize has no cash value. Make sure your privacy settings allow for direct messages to receive a code.
  • For a list of complete rules, click here.
What is Joyswag? Since we don't keep the games and merchandise we receive for review or promotional purposes, it becomes "Joyswag," which is passed along to our readers. Please note that Joyswag may be in "used" condition. For more info on our policy, click here.

JoystiqJoyswag: Get into the Lost Planet 2 multiplayer beta originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 31 Mar 2010 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>facebookjoyswaglost-planet-2Wed, 31 Mar 2010 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live March schedule: Free Xbox Live Gold, XBLA sale]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/23/xbox-live-march-schedule-free-xbox-live-gold-xbla-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/23/xbox-live-march-schedule-free-xbox-live-gold-xbla-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/23/xbox-live-march-schedule-free-xbox-live-gold-xbla-sale/#comments Major Nelson has dropped a new Xbox Live Marketplace schedule for the remainder of March and beginning of April and, while we knew about most of the major releases already, there's still some surprises to be found. First, the next two weeks will see some nice Deal of the Week promotions, with Virtual On: Oratorio Tangram falling to 800 ($10) and Geometry Wars 2 dropping to a paltry 400 ($5).

Beyond that, Xbox Live Silver members will also be able to enjoy free Xbox Live Gold -- including online multiplayer, Netflix, last.fm, Facebook and Twitter -- from noon ET on April 1 through noon ET on April 5. And, as if all that wasn't enough, Major announced that ten Xbox Live Arcade games will go on sale from April 1 through April 7. The full list of games hasn't been announced, though it will include Super Street Fighter II Turbo HD Remix, South Park and Defense Grid. Check out the full Xbox Live schedule after the break.

Continue reading Xbox Live March schedule: Free Xbox Live Gold, XBLA sale

JoystiqXbox Live March schedule: Free Xbox Live Gold, XBLA sale originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Mar 2010 13:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deal-of-the-weekdefense-gridfacebookgames-on-demandlast.fmsouth-parksouth-park-lets-go-tower-defense-playsuper-street-fighter-2-turbo-hd-remixsuper-street-fighter-ii-turbo-hd-remixtwitterxbox-livexbox-live-arcadexbox-live-goldxbox-live-marketplacexbox-live-silverTue, 23 Mar 2010 13:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Rock Band 3 out this holiday season]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/09/rock-band-3-out-this-holiday-season/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/09/rock-band-3-out-this-holiday-season/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/09/rock-band-3-out-this-holiday-season/#commentsRather than, we don't know, a press release or any other professional method of disseminating a message (Twitter, perhaps?), Harmonix took to Facebook to tell friends and friends-of-friends that Rock Band 3 will be released "this holiday season."

The announcement is brief and detail-free, but reveals that EA will distribute the game -- apparently having renewed its Rock Band distribution deal with Viacom. With Rock Band 3, the developer promises to "innovate and revolutionize the music genre once again, just as Harmonix did with the original Rock Band, Rock Band 2 and The Beatles: Rock Band."

If previous comments by Dhani Harrison are to be believed, you may even learn something from playing RB3!

[Thanks Helloimbob!]

JoystiqRock Band 3 out this holiday season originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Mar 2010 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaElectronic-ArtsfacebookharmonixMicrosoftmtv-gamesmusicNintendoq4-2010release-daterhythmrock-bandrock-band-3WiiXbox-360Tue, 09 Mar 2010 14:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Class-action suit charges Microsoft with fraud]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/26/class-action-suit-charges-microsoft-with-fraud/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/26/class-action-suit-charges-microsoft-with-fraud/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/26/class-action-suit-charges-microsoft-with-fraud/#comments
[Image credit: bloomsberries]

In a lawsuit filed by Philadelphia-area lawyer Samuel Lassoff, Microsoft is being sued for allegedly taking money from consumers for Microsoft Points that were erroneously used during "incomplete and/or partial downloads of digital goods and services and refused refund of same." The Horsham, Pa. resident claims that "an invoice he received early this month from Microsoft included charges for purchases he couldn't complete due to a balky download system," according to an InformationWeek.com report. Furthermore, he contends that this was no accident on Microsoft's part.

When we called Mr. Lassoff's law office for comment, we were met with a disconnected number message. However, the lawsuit's Facebook page (it's a brave new world, folks) calls the suit a "class action on behalf of several million US customers exposed to Microsoft Point fraud." Citing "fraud, breach of contract, negligence, unjust enrichment, and unfair business practices," Lassoff seeks a "full refund to all US consumers of all Microsoft Points fraudulently charged to consumers for incomplete or partial downloads of purchased digital goods and services."

Aside from his current lawsuit, Mr. Lassoff previously sued Google, Yahoo, and IAC Interactive in 2006 -- all three suits were eventually dropped.

[Thanks, Zo]

JoystiqClass-action suit charges Microsoft with fraud originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Jan 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>class-actionclass-action-lawsuitfacebookfraudgoogleiac-interactivelawsuitmicrosoftmicrosoft-pointssamuel-lassoffXbox-360yahooTue, 26 Jan 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EA soliciting ideas for Dead Space 2 'Collector's Edition']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/14/ea-soliciting-ideas-for-dead-space-2-collectors-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/14/ea-soliciting-ideas-for-dead-space-2-collectors-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/14/ea-soliciting-ideas-for-dead-space-2-collectors-edition/#commentsEA is informally considering a limited edition release of Dead Space 2 (surprise!) and has taken to Facebook to get some ideas from fans about what to include in it. "I will have our Executive Producer Steve Papoutsis comment on some of your suggestions next week," the announcement reads, " ... so make them good!"

Presumably, Papoutsis will select his favorite suggestions -- already ideas are as tame as comics and as outrageous as a life-size plasma cutter -- and submit them to EA, which will then toss those out and proceed with a Collector's Edition featuring a soundtrack and an artbook.

[Via Blue's News]

JoystiqEA soliciting ideas for Dead Space 2 'Collector's Edition' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Jan 2010 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>collectors-editiondead-space-2eaElectronic-Artsfacebooklimited-editionMicrosoftsteve-papoutsisvisceral-gamesXbox-360Thu, 14 Jan 2010 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Splinter Cell: Conviction also gets split-screen co-op]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/11/splinter-cell-conviction-also-gets-split-screen-co-op/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/11/splinter-cell-conviction-also-gets-split-screen-co-op/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/11/splinter-cell-conviction-also-gets-split-screen-co-op/#comments While we were flipping through the Facebook this morning, looking for pictures of Bobby Jones with that tramp Kelly Sue Eakins, we couldn't help but notice that our best buds on Ubisoft's Splinter Cell account had put up a sweet new pic. The snap captures our pals helping out some Russian friends with their makeovers (aren't they the nicest guys?), though we can't make any sense of the inexplicable caption below the image that reads, "Co-op mode split screen confirmed!" What does that have to do with makeovers, guys? Come on!

[Thanks, SpyderTaco]

Gallery: Splinter Cell: Conviction - Co-op Multiplayer

JoystiqSplinter Cell: Conviction also gets split-screen co-op originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Jan 2010 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>co-opfacebookMicrosoftpcsplinter-cellsplinter-cell-convictionsplit-screensplit-screen-co-opubisoftubisoft-montrealXbox-360Mon, 11 Jan 2010 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Modern Warfare 2 soundtrack in the works, Zimmer says]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/05/modern-warfare-2-soundtrack-album-in-the-works-zimmer-says/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/05/modern-warfare-2-soundtrack-album-in-the-works-zimmer-says/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/05/modern-warfare-2-soundtrack-album-in-the-works-zimmer-says/#comments Sure, Modern Warfare 2's multiplayer mode has already sucked you in, but just imagine what would happen if you added an invigorating soundtrack to all those bullet-soaked moments? Well, guess what: The game's soundtrack composer, Hans Zimmer, recently indicated in a Facebook note that the "soundtrack album is in the works."

That's right -- soon you'll be able to take the orchestrated drama from the single-player campaign and import it into a looping death march beat. But hey, at least your folks will be glad you're listening to classical music, right?

[Via GamePro; image credit: quintanomedia]

JoystiqModern Warfare 2 soundtrack in the works, Zimmer says originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Jan 2010 13:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisioncall-of-dutycall-of-duty-modern-warfare-2facebookhans-zimmerinfinity-wardMicrosoftmodern-warfaremodern-warfare-2soundtrackXbox-360Tue, 05 Jan 2010 13:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Facebook, Twitter, Last.fm now support Xbox child accounts in US]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/15/facebook-twitter-last-fm-now-support-xbox-child-accounts-in-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/15/facebook-twitter-last-fm-now-support-xbox-child-accounts-in-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/15/facebook-twitter-last-fm-now-support-xbox-child-accounts-in-us/#comments The man known as Major Nelson has been so kind as to remind us all that child accounts for Facebook, Twitter and Last.fm have now been enabled for US Xbox 360 users. Once granted parental permission, Xbox Live child account holders over the age of 13 will be able to access these applications. The Major reminds everyone to make sure to select automatic logins for all the applications, otherwise you will be prompted for parental permission every time an app is launched. We'd have to agree with his advice. After all, Mom coming in to give you and your friends Tang and lemon squares: Cool. Mom coming in to log you into Facebook: Not cool.

JoystiqFacebook, Twitter, Last.fm now support Xbox child accounts in US originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 14:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>facebooklast.fmmicrosoftnxetwitterxbox-liveTue, 15 Dec 2009 14:26:00 EST<![CDATA[MS enables child accounts for 360 Twitter, Facebook, Last.fm]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/09/ms-enables-child-accounts-for-360-twitter-facebook-last-fm/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/09/ms-enables-child-accounts-for-360-twitter-facebook-last-fm/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/09/ms-enables-child-accounts-for-360-twitter-facebook-last-fm/#comments When Microsoft rolled out Twitter, Facebook, and Last.fm support for the Xbox 360, a number of users were less than impressed. Specifically, those with child Xbox Live accounts were not allowed to use any of the new applications. Outside the US, Microsoft has now released an update that allows child accounts to access these features, so long as parental permission is given. Major Nelson advises users to set each application to log in automatically upon first activation. Otherwise, those with child accounts will be prompted for parental permission every time the application is launched.

Fear not, US gamers, the update will hit American shores on December 15.

JoystiqMS enables child accounts for 360 Twitter, Facebook, Last.fm originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Dec 2009 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dashboard-update-fall-2009facebooklast.fmmicrosofttwitterXbox-360xbox-liveWed, 09 Dec 2009 16:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft reveals usage stats for Facebook, Last.fm]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/28/microsoft-reveals-usage-stats-for-facebook-last-fm/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/28/microsoft-reveals-usage-stats-for-facebook-last-fm/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/28/microsoft-reveals-usage-stats-for-facebook-last-fm/#comments
According to Microsoft, nearly two million Xbox Live users logged into Facebook through the console's new built-in social media applications. Based on a vague estimate provided by Microsoft, it appears that around ten percent of all Xbox Live Gold accounts used the application within its first week of availability; however, it's possible many of those users only logged in to see the new feature in action.

Microsoft also stated the addition of Last.fm -- a music streaming service currently only available for US and UK gamers -- prompted nearly one million new profile activations. In its first week, Last.fm users streamed "more than 120 million minutes" of music to their Xbox 360 consoles. If we've learned one thing from these numbers, it's that people love to click on shiny new boxes.

JoystiqMicrosoft reveals usage stats for Facebook, Last.fm originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 28 Nov 2009 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dashboard-updatefacebooklast-fmlastfmMicrosoftnxestatisticstwitterXbox-360xbox-liveSat, 28 Nov 2009 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Whitten: Xbox Live banning 'a cat and mouse game']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/whitten-xbox-live-banning-a-cat-and-mouse-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/whitten-xbox-live-banning-a-cat-and-mouse-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/whitten-xbox-live-banning-a-cat-and-mouse-game/#comments Speaking to VentureBeat, Xbox Live general manager Marc Whitten discussed the recent round of Xbox Live bans. According to Whitten, banning users from Xbox Live is "a cat and mouse game." Said Whitten, "These were people that were pirating software." He added that Microsoft looks at banning users "from a safety and anti-cheating perspective" and that the company looks out for its partners. Responding to the widely reported story that Microsoft banned over a million Xbox Live users, Whitten said that the figure is inaccurate. "I cannot explain to you why people would think it was a million people," said Whitten, then adding quite succinctly, "It wasn't a million people."

Whitten went on to state his belief that Microsoft does "a really good job" of monitoring the activity on Xbox Live, specifically in terms of piracy and online harassment. He concluded that the company is "committed to making [Xbox Live] better and better."

The interview also covers the recent integration of Facebook on Xbox, the effect Modern Warfare 2 had on Live activity (hint: a big one) and whether or not we'll be playing Facebook games on our consoles anytime soon. Don't expect a straight answer on that last one though, as the closes Whitten gets is, "In the future, they will move much closer together."

JoystiqWhitten: Xbox Live banning 'a cat and mouse game' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banbanningbusinessfacebookmarc-whittenMicrosoftXbox-360xbox-liveFri, 20 Nov 2009 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Facebook, Twitter now on Xbox Live]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/17/psa-facebook-twitter-now-on-xbox-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/17/psa-facebook-twitter-now-on-xbox-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/17/psa-facebook-twitter-now-on-xbox-live/#comments
Details? They're so early 2009.

JoystiqPSA: Facebook, Twitter now on Xbox Live originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dashboard-updatedashboard-update-fall-2009facebooklast.fmMicrosoftnxetwitterXbox-360xbox-liveTue, 17 Nov 2009 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Facebook and Twitter coming to Xbox Nov. 17]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/12/facebook-and-twitter-coming-to-xbox-nov-17/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/12/facebook-and-twitter-coming-to-xbox-nov-17/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/12/facebook-and-twitter-coming-to-xbox-nov-17/#comments Xbox owners: You have five days to start thinking of your lives and the lives of others in trivial, 140-character chunks. Xbox Live general manager Marc Whitten has told Fast Company that the Dashboard update containing Twitter and Facebook integration will officially arrive on November 17.

If the date seems familiar, you're not losing your marbles: The specific timing for the update was revealed and reneged last month. Now, you'd better hurry up and beat the Chatpad rush at the store.

JoystiqFacebook and Twitter coming to Xbox Nov. 17 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Nov 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dashboard-updatedashboard-update-fall-2009facebookmarc-whittenMicrosoftnxerelease-datetwitterXbox-360xbox-liveThu, 12 Nov 2009 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Xbox mandatory update isn't 'The Big One,' adds WPA2 support for wireless adapter]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/28/psa-xbox-mandatory-update-isnt-the-big-one-adds-wpa2-suppor/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/28/psa-xbox-mandatory-update-isnt-the-big-one-adds-wpa2-suppor/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/28/psa-xbox-mandatory-update-isnt-the-big-one-adds-wpa2-suppor/#comments
Those of you who woke up extra early this morning to get in precious alone time with your Xbox 360 (we understand - we do it all the time) may have been tricked when a mandatory system update greeted you in place of the dashboard. Alas, the much ballyhoo'd Facebook/Twitter/Last.fm update has not yet arrived, as Microsoft's Major Nelson points out on his site.

Instead, the update brings with it support for the now five-year-old WPA2 security protocol. With that new and improved 802.11n wireless adapter hitting retailers next month, and with WPA2 certification being mandatory for all new Wi-Fi devices as of March 2006, Microsoft seems to be rolling out that addition in software. That's good news for those of you with a four-year-old Xbox 360 Wireless Adapter!

JoystiqPSA: Xbox mandatory update isn't 'The Big One,' adds WPA2 support for wireless adapter originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Oct 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>802.11ndashboard-updatedashboard-update-fall-2009facebooklast.fmmajor-nelsonmicrosoftpsatwitterwireless-adapterwpa2Xbox-360xbox-360-wireless-adapterWed, 28 Oct 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live preview 'wave 1' invites out now]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/22/xbox-live-preview-wave-1-invites-out-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/22/xbox-live-preview-wave-1-invites-out-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/22/xbox-live-preview-wave-1-invites-out-now/#comments
The "wave 1" invites to the Xbox Live update preview program are out now, according to Major Nelson. If your dear console has been invited to participate, there should be a prompt upon sign-in. A "wave 1" invite implies that more waves are incoming, so don't get too sad if ya didn't catch the first one, Moondoggie. Grab that board and prepare to ride a future wave to all that upgradedness.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in!]

JoystiqXbox Live preview 'wave 1' invites out now originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 22 Oct 2009 22:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>facebooklast-fmMicrosofttwitterXbox-360xbox-livexbox-live-updatexbox-live-update-previewThu, 22 Oct 2009 22:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Dashboard update preview invites out this Friday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/21/xbox-dashboard-update-preview-invites-out-this-friday/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/21/xbox-dashboard-update-preview-invites-out-this-friday/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/21/xbox-dashboard-update-preview-invites-out-this-friday/#comments Major Nelson, Xbox Live guru and prolific tweeter, has announced that the first wave of notification emails for the Xbox 360 Dashboard update preview should go out this Friday. Incidentally, sign up is now closed, so no more applications will be accepted. The preview will give Xbox Live members a chance to check out the many new features in the upcoming Dashboard update, including Twitter, Facebook, Last.fm and the new Zune Video Marketplace. Also, as we reported earlier today, Microsoft has thrown in a preview of Halo Waypoint as well.

The preview program should roll out sometime next week. In the meantime, keep an eye on those inboxes!

JoystiqXbox Dashboard update preview invites out this Friday originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Oct 2009 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dashboard-updatedashboard-update-fall-2009facebooklast.fmMicrosofttwitterXbox-360xbox-livexbox-live-dashboard-updatezune-video-marketplaceWed, 21 Oct 2009 18:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Video Preview: Xbox Live Fall 2009 Dashboard Update, Facebook, Twitter, Last.fm and more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/19/video-preview-xbox-live-fall-2009-dashboard-update-facebook-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/19/video-preview-xbox-live-fall-2009-dashboard-update-facebook-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/19/video-preview-xbox-live-fall-2009-dashboard-update-facebook-t/#comments The November Xbox Live Dashboard Update -- which brings Facebook, Twitter, Last.fm and the Zune Video Marketplace to the Xbox 360 -- will soon be here. Joystiq has nabbed the update early, and we're here to share all of its secrets with you in the only way that we know how: A video tour! Above, you'll find a brief tour of all the new features. If there's a specific feature you'd like to know more about, simply click one of the the words below to watch a more detailed video all about it.

Note: We learned after publication that the abnormally priced movie rental has not yet been released in theaters. As such, it has a higher price.
Facebook Twitter Last.fm Zune Video Marketplace Miscellaneous

Continue reading Video Preview: Xbox Live Fall 2009 Dashboard Update, Facebook, Twitter, Last.fm and more

JoystiqVideo Preview: Xbox Live Fall 2009 Dashboard Update, Facebook, Twitter, Last.fm and more originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Oct 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Dashboard-UpdateDashboard-Update-Fall-2009FacebookLast.fmMicrosoftTwitterXbox-360Zune-Video-MarketplaceMon, 19 Oct 2009 19:00:00 EST