Joystiq

Games for Windows Live issue kicks customers offline for four days

Alexander Sliwinski — Mon, 11 Feb 2013 15:00:00 EST

An issue with Microsoft's Game for Windows Live servers is preventing some customers from accessing games that use the software. The ever-growing comment thread on Microsoft's support forums repeatedly mentions difficulties with Dark Souls and Age of Empires Online, but that could simply be due to the popularity of those games.

"Starting from last night - some of our users are experiencing an issue connecting, in game, to games that they have previously had no issues with. We are aware of this issue and are looking into what is causing it and for a resolution," noted a Microsoft moderator prior to the weekend.

Workarounds to the issue appear to be inconsistent, and don't seem to guarantee the problem will be resolved. We'll update if we hear about a resolution.

Games for Windows Live issue kicks customers offline for four days originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Feb 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Top Xbox Live, Arcade, Indie and Windows games of 2012

Jessica Conditt — Wed, 23 Jan 2013 01:00:00 EST

If an alien intelligence agency got a hold of this "Top Xbox games of 2012" list, it might come away with the conclusion that humans are really, really into mining. The aliens might also conclude that we enjoy warfare, including the kind that affects extraterrestrials, so let's hope that they focus on the harmless digging thing and keep their lasers to themselves.

Major Nelson breaks down 2012's top 20 games of the following categories: Live, Arcade, Indie and Games for Windows Live. The top Xbox Live games of 2012, determined by average unique users per day, are Call of Duty: Black Ops 2, Modern Warfare 3, Halo 4, Minecraft: Xbox 360 Edition and Black Ops. Following that is a round of sports games, including FIFA Soccer 13 and 12, and Halo: Reach, Assassin's Creed 3, Battlefield 3, Borderlands 2, Far Cry 3 and Skyrim.

The top five Xbox Live Arcade games, determined by full versions purchased, are Minecraft, Trials Evolution, The Walking Dead, Pinball FX2 and Counter-Strike: Global Offensive. Castle Crashers is hanging out at No. 6, followed by Fez at No. 13. Indie games are ranked with the same method, and they carry a familiar theme, headlined by CastleMiner Z, CastleMiner, Total Miner: Forge, Avatar Deathmatch and FortressCraft Chapter 1.

Games for Windows Live games get ranked by average unique users per day, and the top five are Grand Theft Auto 4, Dark Souls: Prepare to Die Edition, Age of Empires Online, Batman: Arkham City and Super Street Fighter 4: Arcade Edition. Remember, aliens, humans sure do love the smell of fresh, pixelated dirt. See for yourself with the full lists, provided by Major Nelson, after the break.

Continue reading Top Xbox Live, Arcade, Indie and Windows games of 2012

Top Xbox Live, Arcade, Indie and Windows games of 2012 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Jan 2013 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PSA: Street Fighter X Tekken DLC now live on GFWL, Steam content delayed into next week

Jordan Mallory — Sat, 21 Jul 2012 16:30:00 EST

Good news, everyone! Half of the PC versions of Street Fighter X Tekken have reached DLC parity with their console brethren. Granted, there are only two PC versions of SFxT, and the one that got the DLC first is the Games for Windows Live version, but at this point we're sure the PC fighting game community is grateful for pretty much whatever they can get.

DLC for the Steam version of SFxT was originally planned to launch simultaneously with the GFWL release, but an "unforeseen error with the Valve submission process" has caused it to be delayed into "early next week," according to an update on Capcom Unity.

PSA: Street Fighter X Tekken DLC now live on GFWL, Steam content delayed into next week originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 21 Jul 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Toy Soldiers storm PC today, DLC for XBLA's Toy Soldiers: Cold War tomorrow

Alexander Sliwinski — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 13:40:00 EST

Signal Studios dropped several information bombs today about its Toy Soldiers series, with the first volley announcing that the original Toy Soldiers will be available on Steam and Games for Windows Live Marketplace today for $9.99. The Steam version will be 25 percent off during launch week.

Wait a minute, but Toy Soldiers on XBLA is $15! Not anymore. The XBLA version is receiving a permanent price drop to 800 MSP ($10).

Signal Studios, which notes the Toy Soldiers franchise has had over 1 million paid downloads, also announced DLC for last year's excellent co-op XBLA sequel, Toy Soldiers: Cold War. The "Evil Empire" and "Napalm" packs will expand the single-player and co-op campaigns, having players take on the role of the USSR or Americans.

"As a thank you to our fans, we are releasing a Multiplayer DLC compatibility pack for free," said Toy Soldiers: Cold War Game Director Jason Ilano. "This will give them a chance to join matches hosted by players that have the new content, play it, and decide if it is for them."

The dueling side expansions will be 400 MSP ($5) apiece and the launch codes are set to execute tomorrow, April 25.

Continue reading Toy Soldiers storm PC today, DLC for XBLA's Toy Soldiers: Cold War tomorrow

Toy Soldiers storm PC today, DLC for XBLA's Toy Soldiers: Cold War tomorrow originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 13:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ms. Splosion Man platform 'splosion: coming to PC, iOS, Windows Phone

JC Fletcher — Fri, 06 Apr 2012 10:45:00 EST

Like playing Ms. Splosion Man, but have an intractable grudge against your Xbox 360? Twisted Pixel is bringing its concussive platformer to several new platforms, including PC (on both Steam and Games for Windows Live), iPhone, iPad, and Windows Phone 7. The porting process is a multi-studio endeavor, requiring the talents of not only Twisted Pixel, but Iron Galaxy, Fire Hose Games, and Panic Button Games as well.

The PC version appears identical to the XBLA release, but the mobile game is a "unique experience" designed specifically for touchscreens -- using a virtual d-pad. You'll be able to find out how well these new containers withstand explosive force this summer.

Continue reading Ms. Splosion Man platform 'splosion: coming to PC, iOS, Windows Phone

Ms. Splosion Man platform 'splosion: coming to PC, iOS, Windows Phone originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Apr 2012 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Batman: Arkham City PC patched, DX11 fixed for some

Ludwig Kietzmann — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 09:15:00 EST

A new PC patch for Batman: Arkham City corrects debilitating performance issues associated with DirectX 11 -- for the most part. Though some players may now enable advanced graphical effects without penalty, the documentation considers DirectX 11 off-limits for 32-bit versions of Vista and Windows 7 until another patch can be issued.

Gotham's unsavory penitentiary has been in need of correctional facilities since its launch on PC, well after the acclaimed console versions. This latest patch addresses a few more errors, including a progress-halting boss glitch and -- our favorite -- "a crash that occurred when selecting 'Press Start' immediately when available at the Title Screen." There should be some kind of punishment for skipping past that lovely title screen music, but that's a bit harsh.

Batman: Arkham City PC patched, DX11 fixed for some originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Dec 2011 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Microsoft discounts Super Meat Boy, other content across its platforms

David Hinkle — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 04:00:00 EST

This week, Microsoft is offering discounts across Xbox Live, Windows PC and its mobile platforms. It's being billed as a fan appreciation sale and we're sure Microsoft would appreciate if its fans spent money. It's kinda how these things go.

Highlights include Super Meat Boy for $5, a few discounted add-ons for Left 4 Dead 2 and Homefront, half-off Indie Games titles Flotilla and Weapon of Choice, and a few PC and mobile joints for good measure. If you want to spend, there's a good chance you can find something to spend money on here. The only thing we'd suggest is that perhaps you hold off on the five different premium Xbox 360 themes available. There's no word on whether or not they'll be compatible with your new Dashboard next month.

Microsoft discounts Super Meat Boy, other content across its platforms originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Nov 2011 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Batman: Arkham City swoops to PC on November 18

Ben Gilbert — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 11:30:00 EST

Warner Bros. has deemed today the day to reveal Batman: Arkham City's delayed PC launch date as November 18, one month to the day after its arrival on consoles.

The Games for Windows version was delayed last month via a terse WB announcement, which didn't provide an explanation at the time. We can exclusively reveal why today: Bruce Wayne is exhausted, y'all. He's got a lot going on, between film and TV and video games, and he just needed a few weeks to chill. Okay, that and PC version bug fixes.

Continue reading Batman: Arkham City swoops to PC on November 18

Batman: Arkham City swoops to PC on November 18 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 18 Oct 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Xbox Live coming to Windows 8

David Hinkle — Tue, 13 Sep 2011 18:00:00 EST

As part of Microsoft's continuing effort to provide its users one all-encompassing ecosystem for all of their entertainment needs (or something), the company has announced that its latest operating system, Windows 8, will support Xbox Live. Exact details on integration are forthcoming, but the biggest question that surfaces in our is: What does this mean for Games for Windows Live?

We've got some questions in to Microsoft and will update as soon as we can. [Update: A Microsoft spokesperson tells us "we currently have nothing to announce beyond the statement that Major Nelson posted on his blog."] In the meanwhile, how about some tentative rejoicing?

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in!]

Xbox Live coming to Windows 8 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Sep 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Batman: Arkham City supports Games for Windows Live

David Hinkle — Tue, 30 Aug 2011 22:30:00 EST

For Batman, capturing criminals and maintaining safe, clean streets in Gotham is its own reward. For those of us lacking giant inheritances and cavernous basements, the incentive to do good just for the sake of being good isn't really enough. We need something we can hold; something we can point to and say, "I did that, here's my proof."

Achievements! It was just our roundabout way of saying Batman: Arkham City will support Games for Windows Live on PC, according to a Warner Bros. rep speaking to VG 247 today. We assume, just like its predecessor, the game will also be sold through Steam, though there has yet to be a games page created for it. We've contacted Warner Bros. for clarification. Achievements and DRM for Arkham City will be handled by Microsoft's platform.

Batman: Arkham City supports Games for Windows Live originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 30 Aug 2011 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Skyrim will feature Steamworks support, also an adorable dog

Griffin McElroy — Thu, 18 Aug 2011 19:00:00 EST

A recently released packshot of the PC version of The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim carried a Games for Windows masthead, leaving some of the gaming community worried that it would also use the Games for Windows Live DRM system. Apparently, that's not the case: Bethesda's Pete Hines confirmed to PC Gamer that it wouldn't use GFWL, and the company's official Twitter account double confirmed that it would instead implement Steamworks. That is, like, so much confirmation.

If you don't really care about things like PC DRM solutions or, um, PCs in general, you might find the screenshots posted below a little more scintillating. There's a picture of a dog in one of them! A wonderful, wonderful dog.

Gallery: The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (Gamescom 2011)

Skyrim will feature Steamworks support, also an adorable dog originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 18 Aug 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Games for Windows Marketplace to merge with Xbox.com on July 11

David Hinkle — Sat, 02 Jul 2011 01:00:00 EST

It's about time. Microsoft is finally consolidating the Games for Windows Marketplace and Xbox.com into one big ultra mega site. Makes sense, right?

The transition will take place on July 11, Eurogamer confirmed, when all of the Games For Windows content will find a new home at Xbox.com. Back in November, the GFW site received quite the overhaul in an attempt to bring a more accessible experience to its web hub.

Currently, there's a thread on the Xbox.com forums discussing the move, if you feel like being part of the conversation. You know, if you want. No pressure!

Games for Windows Marketplace to merge with Xbox.com on July 11 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 02 Jul 2011 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Section 8: Prejudice Overdrive Map Pack coming June 1

Griffin McElroy — Sat, 28 May 2011 12:30:00 EST

Are you familiar with the nooks, crannies and sweet, skydiveable air above each of the maps included in TimeGate Studios' beefy downloadable shooter, Section 8: Prejudice? Next Tuesday, June 1, the game will receive the Overdrive Map Pack, a bundle which includes two new maps which will be playable in all game modes: A magma-covered battlefield known as Abaddon, and a decidedly colder frozen wasteland called Sky Dock.

The two new maps will launch on Xbox Live Marketplace and Games for Windows Marketplace for 320 Microsoft Points ($3.99). Sounds like a fair price for the raw, visceral thrill of plummeting into a pool of volcanic rock. Yes, that's not the smartest strategic move, but c'mon.

Continue reading Section 8: Prejudice Overdrive Map Pack coming June 1

Section 8: Prejudice Overdrive Map Pack coming June 1 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 28 May 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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SSFIV Arcade Edition PC to discourage piracy (and frustrate buyers) with 'limited' offline mode

James Ransom-Wiley — Thu, 26 May 2011 17:58:00 EST

Okay, so there is a catch. We figured Capcom had a "solution" in place when it confirmed that Super Street Fighter IV: Arcade Edition was coming to PC. The problem? Piracy -- the threat of which kept Capcom from releasing vanilla SSFIV on PC just a year ago.

In a blog post on Capcom-Unity, company VP Christian Svensson has addressed some "Stuff You Want to Know About SSFIV:AE for PC." Scroll down and you'll get to the catch.

"SFIV unfortunately was plagued by pirates and hackers that messed up leaderboards," Svensson writes of the original iteration on PC (which still sold well by Capcom's earlier account). "To hopefully remedy that, SSFIV:AE will be making use of what is called SSA technology."

While not as random as certain TSA measures -- SSFIV:AE players can still wear shoes and needn't limit their beverages to 3.4-ounce bottles -- the game's Software Security Assurance protocol is no less strict. Players are required to be signed into Games for Windows Live in order to access most of the game's features and content.

In offline mode, SSFIV:AE is reduced to a sort of demo, with players limited to local play only (obviously), but also restricted to 15 of the 39 fighters and unable to save settings or challenges progress. DLC is inaccessible when playing offline, as well.

Should the GWFL connection be lost mid-game, the player is given a chance to sign back in at a "logical break point" -- but should that fail ... you're in demo mode. And if you don't live in a GFWL-supported region? Svensson calls that a "buyer-beware situation."

Prospective purchasers should also be aware that Steam and Impulse will implement their respective "security solutions" (in addition to SSA), and that Steam users won't use GFWL Marketplace to purchase DLC. "We'll provide more details on that wrinkle at a later date," Svensson notes.

SSFIV Arcade Edition PC to discourage piracy (and frustrate buyers) with 'limited' offline mode originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 May 2011 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Xbox Live Marketplace experiencing outages [update]

JC Fletcher — Wed, 25 May 2011 11:03:00 EST

The Xbox Live status page (and our own abortive efforts to download stuff) reveals that the Xbox Live Marketplace is currently experiencing an interruption in service.

According to the site, "users may experience difficulties" browsing Xbox Live Indie Games, the Games Marketplace, or the Games for Windows Live Marketplace from either an Xbox or a PC. It's more than "difficult" -- in our case, at least, the XBLIG page returns no results at all.

Given recent history, it's tempting to jump immediately to topic of hacking. However, there's no evidence of that, so we're going to assume the blame lies with molemen instead. Molemen are stealing our Marketplace access.

Update: Microsoft sent Joystiq a statement attributing the outage to "an internal operational error," which it is working to resolve "as quickly as possible." You can find the full statement -- which does not confirm or deny the involvement of molemen -- after the break.

Continue reading Xbox Live Marketplace experiencing outages [update]

Xbox Live Marketplace experiencing outages [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 May 2011 11:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Resident Evil 5 is half price on Games For Windows

David Hinkle — Fri, 22 Apr 2011 02:00:00 EST

Starting today and running until Thursday, April 28 at 11:30am EST, Resident Evil 5 is half-off on the Games For Windows marketplace -- down to $15 from its usual $30 asking price. Sounds like a perfect opportunity to give a lonely Majini a home. Sure, they may be parasitic shells of their former selves, but that doesn't mean they don't have feelings, guys.

It should be noted that this is the base edition of Resident Evil 5, sans both DLC packs: Lost in Nightmares and Desperate Escape. It also doesn't include the Versus mode.

Resident Evil 5 is half price on Games For Windows originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Apr 2011 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Section 8: Prejudice drops April 20 for 360, PC and PS3 to follow

Randy Nelson — Tue, 05 Apr 2011 21:00:00 EST

Timegate Studios has dated two of the three versions of its upcoming FPS sequel Section 8: Prejudice. Via its Twitter account, the developer confirmed that the game will land on Xbox Live Marketplace in two weeks on April 20, followed by the Windows version on Games for Windows Live come May 4.

The PS3 release doesn't have a firm date; the game is simply noted as coming "summer 2011" to PSN. Whenever it hits, it'll carry the same $15 price tag as the other versions.

Section 8: Prejudice drops April 20 for 360, PC and PS3 to follow originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Apr 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Bulletstorm PC demo now out on Steam and GFWL

Alexander Sliwinski — Mon, 04 Apr 2011 23:00:00 EST

If you're a PC user who wanted to try Bulletstorm through legal means, the demo is available now on Steam and Games For Windows Live. A demo for consoles has been available since prior to the game's February 22 launch.

For a game that seems to use an expletive-filled roulette wheel for its dialogue, Bulletstorm delivers a clip full of fun. Check out the demo, just make sure that nobody with sensitive ears is around.

Bulletstorm PC demo now out on Steam and GFWL originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Apr 2011 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Gears of War free with Bulletstorm on Games For Windows next week

Randy Nelson — Thu, 17 Feb 2011 18:20:00 EST

Microsoft's Games for Windows Marketplace is having a buy one, get one free sale on Epic Games shooters starring guys with really big arms. Specifically, the digital storefront is giving anyone who buys next week's foul-mouthed FPS Bulletstorm a free copy of the original Gears of War.

The deal will be valid from February 22 -- Bulletstorm's on-sale date -- through March 8. People Can Fly's game will carry a sticker price of $59.99, while Gears normally goes for $19.99.

Gears of War free with Bulletstorm on Games For Windows next week originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 Feb 2011 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Age of Empires Online's Egyptian faction, social features announced

David Hinkle — Tue, 25 Jan 2011 03:01:00 EST

Microsoft has revealed the Egyptians (a.k.a. the "blue guys") in Age of Empires Online, its two-faction freemium revamp of the series. The Egyptians will oppose the red team (obviously), which is hellbent on expanding Greece's borders across the whole world. Stay tuned -- we'll be posting our preview of the Egyptians gameplay later today.

Additionally, Microsoft has detailed some of the social and MMO features planned for AoE Online, which center on players' capitol cities, and has confirmed Game for Windows Live support (including Achievements). The capitol city -- you can have two; one each for your Greek and Egyptian civilizations -- will be the player's persistent headquarters, used to access quests and rule over the empire, and will function as a travel destination and interaction point for other players.

Aside from marveling at your flower gardens (think of your capitol as "FarmVille Lite"), visiting players can join up with you in co-op missions or simply shop at your unique store fronts. Paying players will have incentive to encourage visitors to shop, too, as the premium faction upgrade adds kickbacks: You'll receive in-game currency for purchases made from your stores. Microsoft's detailed "cheat sheet" of the differences between free and paid play is posted after the break.

Importantly, Microsoft has said it won't "nickel-and-dime" players -- upgrading from the free-to-play version of a faction is done through a one-time premium add-on, the "Premium Civilization Pack." Microsoft has not yet announced pricing for the upgrades. Age of Empires Online is currently in beta and should be released this year.

Gallery: Age of Empires Online (Egyptians)

Continue reading Age of Empires Online's Egyptian faction, social features announced

Age of Empires Online's Egyptian faction, social features announced originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 25 Jan 2011 03:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Hunt down S.T.A.L.K.E.R: Shadow of Chernobyl for 99 cents

JC Fletcher — Mon, 06 Dec 2010 22:20:00 EST

Microsoft's ridiculous Games for Windows Live holiday promotion continues, offering another game for a price worth paying even if you don't care about the game, or don't know what the game is! Today, it's S.T.A.L.K.E.R, on sale for 99 cents.

It's the perfect time to catch up with the goings-on in desolate, irradiated future Chernobyl before the sequel arrives in 2012 -- or, if you're like us, it's the perfect time to add yet another game to your near-infinite backlog. It's better than spending full price for a game you'll never play, right?

Hunt down S.T.A.L.K.E.R: Shadow of Chernobyl for 99 cents originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 Dec 2010 22:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Deus Ex: Game of the Year just 99 cents today on Games For Windows

Griffin McElroy — Thu, 02 Dec 2010 14:04:00 EST

It seems the Games for Windows Marketplace is trying its darndest to establish itself as the premiere source of awesome games that cost less than a 20 oz. bottle of soda. For example, today, you can pick up Warren Spector's epic FPSRPG Deus Ex: Game of the Year Edition for just 99 American cents.

Continue reading Deus Ex: Game of the Year just 99 cents today on Games For Windows

Deus Ex: Game of the Year just 99 cents today on Games For Windows originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Dec 2010 14:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Games for Windows Marketplace relaunches right on time

James Ransom-Wiley — Mon, 15 Nov 2010 23:00:00 EST

Just as planned, the new browser-based Games for Windows Marketplace launched today. "Definitely you should show up on day one, because we're going to have a great pre-order on a title you may care about," product manager Peter Orullian teased several weeks ago. Well, we're not seeing "it" aaand ... there's not even Call of Duty: Black Ops on offer (or even Modern Warfare 2 for that matter). A Steam-killer this not -- not yet, at least.

What the Marketplace does have going for it is a relatively user-friendly, if (for now) bare-bones interface, anchored by Live integration (squint and you'll see your faded-out, cross-platform Gamerscore in the upper right when you log in). Of course, Microsoft has stated its intent to vastly expand the site's catalog by offering plenty -- and there are plenty -- of PC games that are not Live-enabled. The new design also wisely highlights both the Deal of the Week (Osmos for $2.50) and new "DailyDeal" (GTA IV for $12), which are going to be key aspects of the new Marketplace.

Additionally, there's an option on the site to add Microsoft Points to your Gamertag (Windows Live ID) account, and, while not obvious until you proceed to "checkout," you can use points as a payment method to purchase Games for Windows content -- already a dangerous aspect of the new Marketplace.

Games for Windows Marketplace relaunches right on time originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 15 Nov 2010 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Osmos only $2.50 as Game for Windows Live's Deal of the Week

Mike Schramm — Sat, 13 Nov 2010 17:30:00 EST

$2.50 doesn't buy a lot these days -- we remember when two bucks and fifty cents could get you a few movie rentals, a nice big bag of candy, or even a sweet comic book. But nowadays, it barely buys you a cup of coffee. One thing you can do with your $2.50 this weekend, though, is take advantage of Games for Windows Live's Deal of the Week -- Microsoft is offering up the terrific indie game Osmos for just two dollars and two quarters.

The game's great -- it was an Indiecade finalist last year, and has you playing as a celestial body trading off mass for movement and always trying to eat orbs bigger than you are. $2.50 doesn't go as far as it used to, but this deal, on through Wednesday of next week, is money well spent.

Update [11/15/10]: This deal is also available through the newly relaunched Games for Windows Marketplace.

Osmos only $2.50 as Game for Windows Live's Deal of the Week originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 13 Nov 2010 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Games for Windows Marketplace gets competitive, relaunching Nov. 15

David Hinkle — Fri, 22 Oct 2010 03:01:00 EST

In November, Microsoft will reboot its Games for Windows Marketplace. In doing so, the company aims to beef up its online portal with more games -- and not just those few that align themselves with the Games for Windows Live branding -- and provide a more competitive and comprehensive retail experience. Peter Orullian, who helped develop digital distribution strategies for Xbox Live, has been tapped to effectively manage the relaunch.

Gallery: Games for Windows Marketplace mock-up images (November 2010 relaunch)

Continue reading Games for Windows Marketplace gets competitive, relaunching Nov. 15

Games for Windows Marketplace gets competitive, relaunching Nov. 15 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Oct 2010 03:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Monday Night Combat grabs XBLM charts by the Moneyball

Griffin McElroy — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 22:00:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

Following the trend of Summer of Arcade titles landing in the top spot on the XBLA sales charts during their release weeks, Monday Night Combat was top dog on last week's chart, which was released by Major Nelson. The online shooter also placed a respectable 11th on the Xbox Live Activity chart, leaps and bounds ahead of all other XBLA titles. Additionally, Limbo held its own with a second-place finish on the sales charts, one spot ahead of the more recent Castlevania: Harmony of Despair.

Meanwhile, Baby Maker Extreme slipped to fourth on the Indie Games chart. Now we're going to be worried about it all week. Click past the jump to see how the rest of the console's offerings fared.

Continue reading Monday Night Combat grabs XBLM charts by the Moneyball

Monday Night Combat grabs XBLM charts by the Moneyball originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 Aug 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BioShock 2 'Protector Trials' DLC delayed on PC

David Hinkle — Thu, 05 Aug 2010 19:00:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

You probably already knew, considering the Bioshock 2 "Protector Trials" DLC is nowhere to be found on Games For Windows Live, but here it is in plain English anyway: it's been delayed. 2K Games' Elizabeth Tobey confirmed the delay in a post on the official 2K Games forums, citing that no date for the patch has been decided yet, but that we should all "stay tuned."

We've put in some questions to 2K about the delay and when exactly the company hopes to launch the DLC on Games For Windows Live. We'll let you know what we hear back.

BioShock 2 'Protector Trials' DLC delayed on PC originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Aug 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fable 3 for Windows not arriving day-and-date with 360 version

Randy Nelson — Mon, 02 Aug 2010 21:20:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

PC gamers will have to delay their journey into the land of Albion for a bit. Microsoft has confirmed today that the Windows version of Lionhead's action RPG Fable 3 will not, as originally planned, arrive on October 26 alongside the Xbox 360 release. "The console and PC versions are now on different schedules as we're focusing on building experiences optimized for each platform," the publisher said in a statement received by Joystiq. "We aren't announcing a ship date for the PC sku at this time, but expect news soon."

Although Microsoft couldn't provide us with a revised release date, it did seek to assure those PC players awaiting Fable 3 that it's not game over for that version. "We will be offering PC players the ability to pre-order 'Fable III' for Windows, and in fact, retailers such as Amazon.com and Game (UK) are taking preorders today for the PC version of Fable III," the company said.

Still, we don't expect Windows users to deliver a victorious arm pump emote until a new date is set in ~~Bower~~stone.

Fable 3 for Windows not arriving day-and-date with 360 version originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Aug 2010 21:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Gears of War, Max Payne and Bioshock added to GFWL Games on Demand

David Hinkle — Sat, 10 Jul 2010 05:00:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

Better late than never, right? Gears of War ($20), Bioshock ($20) and Max Payne ($10) have been added to Games for Windows Live's Games on Demand service.

[Thanks, TheWeaponeer]

Gears of War, Max Payne and Bioshock added to GFWL Games on Demand originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 10 Jul 2010 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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GFW on Demand now offers day-and-date releases

Alexander Sliwinski — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 19:10:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

When Games for Windows Live's Games on Demand service launched in December we said it was "marching onto the [PC digital distribution] field about an hour after the match ended." Three hours later (in metaphoric time), the service announced today it will offer day-and-date game releases from publishers 2K Games, Capcom, Microsoft Game Studios (what a coup!), Rockstar Games, THQ and Ubisoft. We can't help but imagine Steam, Impulse and all the other digital distribution players at their post-game parties laughing.

The initial day-and-date offering by the service is Ubisoft's Prince of Persia: The Forgotten Sands. At the same time, the Prince of Persia games The Sands of Time and Warrior Within are each $2.50 -- which seem like much better deals than the aforementioned title. The service has also added several more games, which we've listed after the break.

Continue reading GFW on Demand now offers day-and-date releases

GFW on Demand now offers day-and-date releases originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 Jun 2010 19:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dark Void $10 through Games for Windows Live this weekend

JC Fletcher — Sat, 29 May 2010 11:30:00 EST

Dark Void may have met with a cool reaction critically, but it's been temporarily granted a new feature that might improve people's impressions: costing ten dollars.

Through June 1, the PC version of Airtight Games' jetpack-packed action game is available for just $9.99 on Games for Windows Live. A price like that skirts the boundaries between "rental" and "purchase" -- it's cheap enough that you can basically get it just to screw around with the jetpack and not feel bad. It's almost cheap enough that you can get it solely for the purpose of "completing your Dark Void collection" should you already have Dark Void Zero.

[Via Capcom-Unity]

Gallery: Dark Void

Dark Void $10 through Games for Windows Live this weekend originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 29 May 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fable 3 also conquering lands on PC; Collector's Edition detailed

Ben Gilbert — Fri, 21 May 2010 09:50:00 EST

This morning, Microsoft officially announced that Fable 3 will be heading to the PC as well as the Xbox 360, confirming news derived from last week's accidental box art reveal. Standard and "Limited Collector's" editions were also detailed -- for $59.99 and $79.99, respectively -- with the latter coming with several in-game and physical items (seen in full after the break).

Since the Windows iteration will only be available in the standard version at retail (for just $50, might we add) and downloadable "exclusively" through Games for Windows Live Marketplace, all PC players will be able to access the extra quest, region, and dog breed that come with the Xbox 360's collector's edition. Between now and the game's fall release, why not take a look through these exciting retail mockups below in our gallery? Oooh!

Gallery: Fable 3 Box Art (Xbox 360/PC)

Continue reading Fable 3 also conquering lands on PC; Collector's Edition detailed

Fable 3 also conquering lands on PC; Collector's Edition detailed originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 May 2010 09:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rumor: Microsoft's Live support coming to free Windows games; Minesweeper, Solitaire and more

David Hinkle — Tue, 06 Apr 2010 15:05:00 EST

Microsoft is allegedly preparing to implement Live functionality into the free suite of games that comes with all Windows-enabled PCs: Solitaire, Chess, Checkers, Spades, Hearts, Backgammon, Minesweeper, Purple Place, Spider Solitaire and Freecell. This tip comes courtesy of our trusted source (who accurately predicted Lucidity, NBA 2K10 Draft Combine and Tecmo Bowl: Throwback). Reportedly, each Windows game will not only get Achievements, but also chat and leaderboard support. While unconfirmed by our source, we'd anticipate this to be a free update.

If true -- and hey, our tipster's batting a thousand (that's sports talk for reliable) -- adding Live functionality to these games would be an ideal gateway for Microsoft to usher new users into Live and the Achievements system. After registering a free Games For Windows Live account, a new user would be able to instantly start building Gamerscore cred with the free games included on Windows PCs. It's Drug Dealing 101 -- give 'em the first fix for free, and they'll be hooked!

Rumor: Microsoft's Live support coming to free Windows games; Minesweeper, Solitaire and more originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Apr 2010 15:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PC Street Fighter IV only $20 from Impulse, GFW On Demand

Richard Mitchell — Sat, 06 Mar 2010 01:15:00 EST

Following last week's killer deal on Batman: Arkham Asylum, Games for Windows on Demand continues its series of game sales with Street Fighter IV. Right now, the service is offering Capcom's fighter for 50 percent off, knocking the price down to a palatable $19.99. Or, if you prefer, Impulse is also offering it for the same price. Of course, it's worth noting that Super Street Fighter IV will be released in just a month, so you might just skip the whole thing and wait for a couple of weeks.

Unless, of course, the allure of "a nifty little special set of things" is just too much to resist.

Source - Games on Demand Spring Sale
Source - Street Fighter IV on Impulse

[Via 1UP]

PC Street Fighter IV only $20 from Impulse, GFW On Demand originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 06 Mar 2010 01:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PC version of Batman: Arkham Asylum on sale for $12.49

Griffin McElroy — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 16:00:00 EST

We're going to need you to find some way to weasel out of that lunch date you have planned for tomorrow. See, the $12.49 you were planning on spending on that cucumber and cream cheese panini with Italian cream soda? It's about to go towards a much more virtuous cause: Purchasing Batman: Arkham Asylum through Games For Windows' Games on Demand platform, which until March 1, will only cost you $12.49.

It may not be as delicious as the aforementioned sandwich, but it will take you longer to finish. Unless you're the world's slowest eater. Or the world's fastest game-tape solver. Or if it's the world's biggest panini.

PC version of Batman: Arkham Asylum on sale for $12.49 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Feb 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Kodu 'Technical Preview' available as free PC download

David Hinkle — Wed, 13 Jan 2010 22:30:00 EST

Microsoft's experiment in casual game creation, Kodu, is now available in preview form online. PC gamers can download the "Technical Preview" version of the game right here, which features a revamped UI sporting mouse and keyboard controls. Microsoft also added other tweaks, enhancing the "move" verb (allowing for scripted camera movements), "streamlined terrain editing tools" and characters that can respond to mouse and keyboard events.

If you're a PC gamer wondering what all of the fuss is about, we suggest you check out our video walkthrough. Oh, and do let us know if you come up with any Joystiq-inspired games!

[Via Big Download]

Kodu 'Technical Preview' available as free PC download originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 Jan 2010 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Xbox Game Room bringing arcades back to Xbox 360 and Games for Windows Live users [update 3]

Xav de Matos — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 22:18:00 EST

Update 3: An online fact sheet [.doc link] from Microsoft reveals that the Game Room itself will be free, while games will range in price from 400 ($5) for a dual-license purchase of arcade classics, 240 ($3) for a single-platform license or 40 ($0.50) for "two quarters" worth of play. Users can try arcade titles for free within a friend's room. For full details, check out our follow-up post.

Update 2: According to Major Nelson, Game Room users will have the ability to purchase games for their virtual arcade and play them on both their Xbox 360 and Windows PC. Additionally, new Game Room titles will be made available every week. Users will be able to invite Xbox Live friends into their respective (and customizable) rooms to show off their arcade collection. Stock up on Microsoft Points, kids.

Update 1: During its CES 2010 keynote, Microsoft's Robbie Bach announced 30 arcade titles will be available in the Xbox Game Room when the service launches this spring for the Xbox 360 and Games for Windows Live.

Original: Hours following a leaked interview featuring Robbie Bach, Microsoft has confirmed the existence of a virtual arcade room for Xbox Avatars via this trailer unveiled at CES 2010. The Xbox Game Room is slated to hit the Xbox 360 and Games for Windows Live this spring, allowing players to visit a virtual room filled with classic arcade titles. According to the video, users will be able to customize their arcade rooms (presumably for Microsoft funny money) and challenge friends to a plethora of original arcade versions of games such as Centipede, Outlaw, and Star Raiders.

The news that Game Room will also launch for Games For Windows Live raises the question, will the service see Avatars added in the near future? As the upcoming arcade is centered around entertainment for your virtual identity, we'd hope the service would see an interface upgrade bringing it closer to the Xbox's current NXE, rather than locking our poor Avatars up inside of an executable program.

Xbox Game Room bringing arcades back to Xbox 360 and Games for Windows Live users [update 3] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jan 2010 22:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PSA: Games for Windows Live's Games on Demand launches

Alexander Sliwinski — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 17:44:00 EST

Microsoft's Games on Demand for Games for Windows Live is now live and on demandable. The launch lineup doesn't exactly conjure up thoughts of exploding confetti, but here goes nothing:

Dirt 2 ($40)
Fallout 3 ($50)
Kane and Lynch: Dead Men ("1600") -- really, that's what it says (aka $20)
Red Faction: Guerrilla ($40)
Shadowrun ($10)
Street Fighter IV ($40)
Viva Pinata ($10)

With established digital distribution systems for PC gamers -- heard of Steam? Impulse? -- already featuring far larger libraries and arguably better discounts, it sure looks like GFWLGOD (we're still working on the acronym ... ) is marching onto the field about an hour after the match ended.

Continue reading PSA: Games for Windows Live's Games on Demand launches

PSA: Games for Windows Live's Games on Demand launches originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 17:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Games for Windows Live adding Games on Demand beginning Dec. 15

Randy Nelson — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 15:30:00 EST

Games on Demand, a.k.a. full game downloads, is one of the more recent additions to Xbox Live -- and today Microsoft has announced that it's bringing the service to its Games For Windows Live platform beginning December 15. GFWL creative director Chuck Osieja calls the initiative "Microsoft's return to delivering Windows games built on unique LIVE experiences." The service has a rocky history of sporadic supported releases and last summer ditched its subscription fees in the face of competition from the likes of Steam.

The move puts Microsoft up against Valve's digi-distribution service, which similarly offers community features and its own Achievements system, but boasts a much larger catalog at present. The GFWL Games on Demand initial lineup will include Resident Evil 5, Red Faction: Guerrilla and Battlestations Pacific along with new GFWL-enabled versions of 2D Boy's excellent World of Goo and Hemisphere Games' Osmos -- all titles currently offered by Steam, with some available via Stardock's Impulse service. Microsoft hasn't divulged pricing for titles offered via GFWL Games on Demand.

A reworked version of the former Windows Vista Ultimate Extra Tinker will be made available free to GFWL users when the Games on Demand service launches a week from next Tuesday.

Games for Windows Live adding Games on Demand beginning Dec. 15 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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DirectX 11-powered Dirt 2 heading to PCs in early December

Ben Gilbert — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 16:31:00 EST

During Microsoft's big coming-out party for Windows 7 today in New York City, Codemasters showed off the new DirectX 11 version of the upcoming PC port of Dirt 2 that you see above. Though the developer said little of new content additions being made to the game, the already gorgeous visuals have been gussied up with help from DirectX 11, and cheevos will be ready for the taking on Games for Windows Live. Meeting its previously announced delay head-on, Dirt 2 starts shipping in North America on December 1, with December 3 and 4 release dates for the rest of the world (in your face, world!).

DirectX 11-powered Dirt 2 heading to PCs in early December originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 22 Oct 2009 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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