Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Google+ Games no more after June 30]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/google-games-no-more-after-june-30/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/google-games-no-more-after-june-30/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/google-games-no-more-after-june-30/#comments After June 30, Google+ Games will be no more. Google has announced it's pulling the plug on all games through its service, so if you have credits in any games or wish to continue playing, you'll need to pursue that through each individual developer.

Google announced it's pulling the plug shortly after revealing its new games services suite for Google Play, which is live right now. Google started rolling out games to its social networking service in the summer of 2011, starting with Angry Birds, Dragon Age Legends and sudoku.

JoystiqGoogle+ Games no more after June 30 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 May 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>googlegoogle-plusgoogle-plus-gamesmacpcThu, 16 May 2013 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Google Play launches game services for mobile, social, cloud gaming]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/google-play-launches-game-services-for-mobile-social-cloud-gam/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/google-play-launches-game-services-for-mobile-social-cloud-gam/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/google-play-launches-game-services-for-mobile-social-cloud-gam/#commentsGoogle Play launches game services for mobile, social, cloud gaming Google is kicking off games services on its Play Store that allows developers to add achievements, social and public leaderboards, cloud saving, and real-time multiplayer. The games service goes live today and works completely on Android, and mostly on iOS or other "connected devices" - that second batch won't support multiplayer.

Google Play's games services differs from Apple's Game Center in that it offers backend support, rather than a standalone application.

Anyone making a game with Google Play has access to its developer services. A handful of games already have these services incorporated: World of Goo, Super Stickman Golf 2, Beach Buggy Blitz, Kingdom Rush, Eternity Warriors 2 and Osmos.

"We won't make it a mandatory exercise, or have any certification process around it," Google lead product manager Greg Hartrell told Engadget. "We create fantastic services that allow developers to create these great game experiences, and help promote their discovery, help retain their users and keep them engaged."

Check out the games services on Google's developer site.

Continue reading Google Play launches game services for mobile, social, cloud gaming

JoystiqGoogle Play launches game services for mobile, social, cloud gaming originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 May 2013 12:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidgamesgames-servicesgooglegoogle-gamesgoogle-io-2013google-playiosipadiphonemobileWed, 15 May 2013 12:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Google commemorates Atari's Breakout in interactive fashion]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/google-commemorates-ataris-breakout-in-interactive-fashion/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/google-commemorates-ataris-breakout-in-interactive-fashion/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/google-commemorates-ataris-breakout-in-interactive-fashion/#commentsGoogle commemorates Atari Breakout in interactive fashion Atari's Breakout turned 37 last month, and that apparently (but not unsurprisingly) is enough of an excuse for yet another Google easter egg. If you type 'Atari Breakout' into Google Images' search, instead of finding graphics of the classic game, the screen will transform into a playable Breakout clone made up from those images. Clever, no?

So, if by the end of today you're wondering where all the Joystiq posts have gone, be sure to blame/thank Google.

JoystiqGoogle commemorates Atari's Breakout in interactive fashion originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 May 2013 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ataribreakouteaster-egggoogleTue, 14 May 2013 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Google Play Games leaks out, will feature matchmaking and achievements]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/12/google-play-games-leaks-out-will-feature-matchmaking-and-achiev/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/12/google-play-games-leaks-out-will-feature-matchmaking-and-achiev/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/12/google-play-games-leaks-out-will-feature-matchmaking-and-achiev/#comments'Google Play Games' leaks out, will feature matchmaking and achievements The Android answer to Apple's Game Center app on iOS will be Google Play Games, according to information obtained by Android Police from a Play Services APK teardown. The service will bring lobbies and invites for matchmaking, in-game chat, cloud game saves, achievements and leaderboards to the platform for developers to make use of.

The APK Android Police pulled apart is a file package primarily used to update Android apps, so this update was riddled with code that indicated what features would be coming to the platform down the road, but aren't accessible just yet. There is certainly a good chance Google Play Games will be fully unveiled at Google's I/O event next week in San Francisco.

JoystiqGoogle Play Games leaks out, will feature matchmaking and achievements originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 12 May 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Achievementsandroidcloud-savesgame-centergooglegoogle-playgoogle-play-gamesleaderboardsmatchmakingmobileSun, 12 May 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Street U gets emotional, adds Miiverse support]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/wii-street-u-gets-emotional-adds-miiverse-support/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/wii-street-u-gets-emotional-adds-miiverse-support/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/wii-street-u-gets-emotional-adds-miiverse-support/#comments
Wii Street U gets emotional, adds Miiverse support
The Wii U's Google-powered maps app, Wii Street U, has just received an update, allowing users to take pictures of places and upload them to the Miiverse. The Wii Street U app launched in February as a free download on the Nintendo eShop.

Once uploaded, you can add emotional tags to your images, to better describe the place in question. Phrases like "amazing," "fun" and "scary" can be used - the latter coming in especially handy the next time you upload a pic of the robot band at Chuck E. Cheese's, we imagine.

JoystiqWii Street U gets emotional, adds Miiverse support originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 10 May 2013 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>googlegoogle-mapsnintendoupdatewii-street-uwii-uFri, 10 May 2013 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Google Chrome 'experiment' transforms websites into thrilling marble mazes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/21/google-chrome-experiment-transforms-websites-into-thrilling-ma/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/21/google-chrome-experiment-transforms-websites-into-thrilling-ma/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/21/google-chrome-experiment-transforms-websites-into-thrilling-ma/#comments Google Chrome 'experiment' transforms websites into thrilling marble mazesThat's Joystiq, as seen through a new Google Chrome "Experiment." The game World Wide Maze turns the website (or Google search result) of your choice into a three-dimensional maze, full of jumps, elevators, and desirable blue spheres to pick up.

It's sort of a 3D Marble Madness - or, if you prefer, a Super Monkey Ball with somewhat less. If you have Chrome on your phone, you can connect it to your computer and play the game using your phone's tilt sensor, adding to the Monkey Ball-ness.

This is a really neat experiment to play as a game, though we don't recommend you try to read our site this way. We don't want to be responsible for your illness.

JoystiqGoogle Chrome 'experiment' transforms websites into thrilling marble mazes originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 21 Mar 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chromegooglemacmobilepcworld-wide-mazeThu, 21 Mar 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[US court: Motorola can't enforce German Xbox injunction]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/29/us-court-motorola-cant-enforce-german-xbox-injunction/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/29/us-court-motorola-cant-enforce-german-xbox-injunction/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/29/us-court-motorola-cant-enforce-german-xbox-injunction/#comments Motorola Mobility (now owned by Google) obtained an injunction against Microsoft in Germany that would have prevented sale or import of Xbox 360s, among other Microsoft devices earlier this summer, over H.264 video encoding technology owned by Motorola and licensed for use in MS devices. Now, the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals has ruled that Motorola cannot enforce the injunction.

You might be asking what we asked at first. How can a US court rule on a decision made in Germany? Microsoft previously sued Motorola for breach of contract in the US, allowing the court to consider the whole matter subject to US law. "At bottom, this case is a private dispute under Washington state contract law between two U.S. corporations," the court's ruling reads.

JoystiqUS court: Motorola can't enforce German Xbox injunction originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 29 Sep 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>googleinjunctionlawsuitmicrosoftmotorolapcxboxSat, 29 Sep 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Google report on game searches: Understanding the Modern Gamer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/25/google-report-on-game-searches-understanding-the-modern-gamer/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/25/google-report-on-game-searches-understanding-the-modern-gamer/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/25/google-report-on-game-searches-understanding-the-modern-gamer/#comments Google publishes Understanding the Gamer reportScientific studies have a way of making well-rounded, conscientious people feel as if their lives are contrived, noting how their habits are shared by millions of other people and probably aren't that special in the long run.

In the study "Understanding the Modern Gamer," Google does this with "millions of gamers," but knows how to make us feel special while we're being scrutinized: "Gamers are incredibly savvy Internet users whose searches reveal an extraordinarily high level of intention." Google notes that the gaming industry has "significantly transformed" in recent years and has studied our online search habits - desktop and mobile - for insight into purchasing processes and levels of engagement.

Google finds that gamers are researching games before buying more often, with desktop searches in 2011 up 20 percent year-over-year; searches for marquee titles are up 29 percent. Pre-launch searches are up 37 percent and most gamers consider two different games before deciding on one.

Despite protestations to sequels, gamers get involved in major franchises more heavily with each new game, becoming "active members of growing communities that are interested in year-round interaction with franchise content." Search volume for franchise titles increases significantly with each iteration, as shown in the above desktop and mobile graphs.

Reviews remain relevant up to four months following a game's launch week. Search volume correlates with game sales: A game that accrues 250,000 AdWords clicks in the 10 months around launch is expected to sell 2 - 4 million units in its first four months.

Major games now involve year-round digital interaction from consumers, Google finds. Aiding that year-round boost may be mobile searches, which are up 168 percent year-over-year.

Read the full report after the break.

Continue reading Google report on game searches: Understanding the Modern Gamer

JoystiqGoogle report on game searches: Understanding the Modern Gamer originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 25 Sep 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamergooglemobilepcresearchsciencesearchsearch-engineTue, 25 Sep 2012 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Latest Google Doodle rides the rapids]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/09/latest-google-doodle-rides-the-rapids/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/09/latest-google-doodle-rides-the-rapids/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/09/latest-google-doodle-rides-the-rapids/#comments Latest Google Doodle hits the rapidsGoogle continues its flirtation with the Olympic Games in London today, with another playable Google Doodle. Today's Doodle threatens productivity everywhere by challenging searchers to clear a rocky, frog-infested canoe slalom course.

In case you missed them, previous Olympic Doodles took to the court with basketball and conjured up a little Track & Field with a hurdles race. Unfortunately, you can't ... erm ... boost your odds with an NES Advantage this time around.

JoystiqLatest Google Doodle rides the rapids originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Aug 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012-Olympic-Gamescanoecanoe-slalomgooglegoogle-doodleolympic-gamesslalomThu, 09 Aug 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Today's Google Doodle takes to the Track and Field]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/07/todays-google-doodle-takes-to-the-track-and-field/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/07/todays-google-doodle-takes-to-the-track-and-field/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/07/todays-google-doodle-takes-to-the-track-and-field/#comments Today's Google Doodle takes to the Track and FieldWe can totally push buttons faster than you, and today's Google Doodle proves that. It's basically a web-based take on NES favorite Track & Field, paying homage to the currently-in-progress 30th Olympiad in London, and we scored a gnarly 15.4 seconds. Can you run down a virtual track and leap hurdles faster than our convention-grizzled blogger hands? Go ahead and try us, punk!

Spoilers: You probably can.

JoystiqToday's Google Doodle takes to the Track and Field originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 Aug 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>googlegoogle-doodlenesolympicsolympics-2012track-and-fieldTue, 07 Aug 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Zynga hit with insider trading lawsuit as execs cash out before crash]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/31/zynga-hit-with-insider-trading-lawsuit-as-execs-cash-out-before/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/31/zynga-hit-with-insider-trading-lawsuit-as-execs-cash-out-before/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/31/zynga-hit-with-insider-trading-lawsuit-as-execs-cash-out-before/#comments Zynga hit with insider trading lawsuit as execs cash out before crashZynga has been hit with the first of five expected lawsuits alleging a handful of top executives and investors engaged in insider trading - including CEO Marc Pincus and Google. Following Zynga's IPO in December, employees and investors were "locked up," unable to sell their shares until May 28. Technically. A group of top executives and shareholders hired underwriters to manage the sale of their shares, creating a loophole that allowed them to sell their stock at $12.

By May 28, when initial investors were legally allowed to sell their shares, Zynga stock had fallen to $6. Yesterday, it struck $3. Locked up investors had no opportunity to sell their shares at the same price as the top brass, and the insiders that did "cashed out at exactly the right time," Business Insider's Henry Blodget writes.

Continue reading Zynga hit with insider trading lawsuit as execs cash out before crash

JoystiqZynga hit with insider trading lawsuit as execs cash out before crash originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 31 Jul 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidgoogleinsider-tradingiosipadiphonelawsuitmacmobilepcstockswall-streetZyngaTue, 31 Jul 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy brings the Warriors of Light to Android]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/28/final-fantasy-brings-the-warriors-of-light-to-android/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/28/final-fantasy-brings-the-warriors-of-light-to-android/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/28/final-fantasy-brings-the-warriors-of-light-to-android/#comments Final Fantasy now on AndroidHot on the heels of Final Fantasy 3's launch on Android, the original has made its debut on the Google Play store - well, a remake of the original, anyway. Final Fantasy on Android is the same as the iOS version from years ago and the recent Windows Phone 7 version, both of which are based on the PSP remake from back in 2007.

Final Fantasy on Android is available for $6.99 in the Google Play store right now, and runs on Android 2.1-compatible devices and up.

JoystiqFinal Fantasy brings the Warriors of Light to Android originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 28 Jul 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidfinal-fantasygooglegoogle-playmobilerpgsquare-enixwarriors-of-lightSat, 28 Jul 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[OnLive controller to support Nexus 7 soon]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/17/onlive-controller-to-support-nexus-7-soon/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/17/onlive-controller-to-support-nexus-7-soon/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/17/onlive-controller-to-support-nexus-7-soon/#comments What's that? You say that Google finally shipped you that sweet Nexus 7, but you can't play your precious OnLive games on the Android app? Take heart, because OnLive is working to add support for its Bluetooth controller to Google's new 7-inch tablet, according to GottaBeMobile. In a rather brief statement, OnLive said quite simply: "We don't have support out for it yet, but we hope to shortly."

So there you have it - sit tight, early adopters. In the meantime, we suppose you could always play LA Noire.

JoystiqOnLive controller to support Nexus 7 soon originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Jul 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidgooglegoogle-nexus-7mobilenexus-7onliveTue, 17 Jul 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamestop taking pre-orders for Google's Nexus 7 tablet]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/29/gamestop-taking-pre-orders-for-googles-nexus-7-tablet/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/29/gamestop-taking-pre-orders-for-googles-nexus-7-tablet/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/29/gamestop-taking-pre-orders-for-googles-nexus-7-tablet/#comments Gamestop taking preorders for Google's Nexus 7 tabletIf you want the $250, 16GB version of Google and Asus' brand-spanking-new Nexus 7 tablet, don't have $250 handy, but do have a pile of other touch devices and games laying around, Gamestop may be able to work with you.

The retail chain is currently taking pre-orders for the higher capacity version of the Nexus 7, which is expected to ship sometime in the next few weeks. It's also now accepting Android tablets as trade-ins, and all trade-ins applied directly towards the purchase of a Nexus 7 will have their values bolstered by an additional 30 percent. For the beginning of its production run, the Nexus 7 will include a $25 credit for use in the Google Play store and the "experience" that is Transformers: Dark of the Moon.

If $250 is a little rich for your blood, or you don't think you'll need a whole 16GB of storage, both the $200 8GB and $250 16GB models of the Nexus 7 are available for pre-order directly from Google.

Continue reading Gamestop taking pre-orders for Google's Nexus 7 tablet

JoystiqGamestop taking pre-orders for Google's Nexus 7 tablet originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Jun 2012 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidGamestopgooglemobileNexus-7Fri, 29 Jun 2012 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light gets Chrome'd out this fall]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/28/lara-croft-and-the-guardian-of-light-gets-chromed-out-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/28/lara-croft-and-the-guardian-of-light-gets-chromed-out-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/28/lara-croft-and-the-guardian-of-light-gets-chromed-out-this-fall/#comments Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light continues its long and storied tradition of being ported to unexpected platforms this fall, when the Crystal Dynamics XBLA adventure makes its way to Google's Chrome browser.

Previously, LCATGOL has made its way to PSN, Steam, iOS, OnLive and the Blackberry Playbook; a list that makes less sense the longer you read it. The game will be powered by Google's open source Native Client framework and will run in-browser, similar to other XBLA-to-Chrome converts like Bastion and From Dust. No word yet on pricing or availability beyond the fall release window.

JoystiqLara Croft and the Guardian of Light gets Chrome'd out this fall originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Jun 2012 20:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserchromeCrystal-Dynamicsgooglegoogle-chromelara-croftlara-croft-and-the-guardian-of-lightmacpcsquare-enixThu, 28 Jun 2012 20:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Microsoft considered OnLive acquisition, thinks the next PlayStation will be a GoogleTV box]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/16/rumor-xbox-720-onlive/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/16/rumor-xbox-720-onlive/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/16/rumor-xbox-720-onlive/#comments Details continue to spew forth from the supposed leaked 52-page "Xbox 720" presentation that came to light a few hours ago. Buried deep within the bowels of the slideshow's fifth seventh slide, an examination of the next Xbox's potential competition potentially reveals some interesting tidbits about Microsoft's thinking back in 2010 (the slideshow dates back to August 2010).

Most notably, the document not only lists OnLive's MicroConsole as competition (along with the AppleTV and GoogleTV platforms, among others), but it also notes OnLive itself as a "potential acquisition target" - which makes sense considering frequent mentions of cloud gaming in the rest of the document.

The presentation also makes several assumptions about the Wii U (dubbed "Wii2" in the piece, showing its age) and Sony's eventual next console, specifically claiming that the Wii U will cost around $249, and that the "PS4" will be some kind of GoogleTV device, on top of being a Sony console.

JoystiqRumor: Microsoft considered OnLive acquisition, thinks the next PlayStation will be a GoogleTV box originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 16 Jun 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappleAppleTvdurangogoogleGoogleTVmicrosoftmobilenintendoonliveplaystationPS4wii-uxboxXbox-720Sat, 16 Jun 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Google Play adds in-app subscription support for Android]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/google-play-adds-in-app-subscription-support-for-android/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/google-play-adds-in-app-subscription-support-for-android/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/google-play-adds-in-app-subscription-support-for-android/#comments ImageGoogle Play (formerly Android Market) now supports in-app subscriptions, so developers can optionally accept recurring payments for their apps. Subscriptions can be monthly or annual, and ... are all auto-renewing by default. Good news, developers! You'll get at least one accidental payment from a user.

First out of the gate to support this is Glu Mobile, which appears to be using it for recurring conversions of money to in-game credits in games like Frontline Commando. There's even API functionality allowing developers to use in-app subscriptions to determine access to non-Android-based properties, like websites - allowing an Android app to serve as the subscription system.

JoystiqGoogle Play adds in-app subscription support for Android originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 May 2012 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidgooglegoogle-playin-app-purchasesin-app-subscriptionsmobileFri, 25 May 2012 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Google Play passes 15 billion downloads]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/08/google-play-passes-15-billion-downloads/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/08/google-play-passes-15-billion-downloads/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/08/google-play-passes-15-billion-downloads/#comments ImageGoogle Play, the download service formerly known as Android Market, crossed 15 billion downloads "a few weeks ago," Google told TechCrunch.

There's no information about what percentage of that 15 billion is games, but we can at least look at this as a handy comparison to the nearest competitor: Google has served up 15 billion since October 2008, while iOS apps have been downloaded (as of March) 25 billion times since July 2008.

There's also no information on how many of those downloads have been since the rebranding - we hope the name change hasn't been too confusing for Android users, leaving them desperately searching for the Android Market.

JoystiqGoogle Play passes 15 billion downloads originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 May 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidgooglegoogle-playmobileTue, 08 May 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[We require you to Google 'zerg rush']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/we-require-you-to-google-zerg-rush/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/we-require-you-to-google-zerg-rush/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/we-require-you-to-google-zerg-rush/#comments ImageStop reading. Start Googling. Just try to take out a few of the little buggers before you're overrun, okay?

JoystiqWe require you to Google 'zerg rush' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Apr 2012 10:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardeaster-egggooglemacpcstarcraftstarcraft-2-heart-of-the-swarmzerg-rushFri, 27 Apr 2012 10:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Google Maps comes to ... the NES?! [April Fools!]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/31/google-maps-comes-to-the-nes/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/31/google-maps-comes-to-the-nes/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/31/google-maps-comes-to-the-nes/#comments
In a move that is as surprising as it is whimsically delightful, Google has decided to bring its globally renowned and often essential Google Maps service to one of the best-selling home computing solutions of all time: The Nintendo Entertainment System.

As demonstrated in the video above, using Google Maps on your NES/Famicom is just as easy as using it on your desktop, smartphone or tablet. Simply insert the cartridge into the system, remove it, blow into it, reinsert it back into the system, attach a phone line and you're ready to go. Google's cloud of servers compensate for the NES's lack of processing prowess, allowing for a quick, seamless experience.

While Google Maps for NES has yet to begin shipping, a demo version is available at the web-based Google Maps portal -- just click on the Quest button on the top right to begin your adventure.

Update: Rather than play along with these gags as they happen, we've decided instead to tag each April Fools' Day prank as such in the headline, in order to avoid as many dashed hopes as possible. For what its worth, we want this to be real as much as you do.

JoystiqGoogle Maps comes to ... the NES?! [April Fools!] originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 31 Mar 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>april-fools-12april-fools-2012april-fools-dayfamicomGoogleGoogle-MapsGoogle-Maps-NESits-already-april-1-in-JapanNESnintendonintendo-entertainment-systemSat, 31 Mar 2012 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[From Dust migrating to Google Chrome in April]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/06/from-dust-migrating-to-google-chrome-in-april/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/06/from-dust-migrating-to-google-chrome-in-april/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/06/from-dust-migrating-to-google-chrome-in-april/#comments
Ubisoft will debut From Dust -- the latest joint from Eric Chahi, creator of Out of this World -- on Google Chrome some time in April, the publisher's Facebook page revealed. The Google Chrome version will feature new controls and full HD graphics.

We've contacted Ubisoft for pricing info, and whether or not players will be able to sample the Chrome version for free before buying, just like the Google Chrome port of Bastion. Stay tuned!

JoystiqFrom Dust migrating to Google Chrome in April originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chromeeric-chahifrom-dustgooglegoogle-chromepcproject-dustubisoftTue, 06 Mar 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Google Zeitgeist puts Battlefield 3 in top ten rising searches, Black Ops tops gaming chart]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/17/google-zeitgeist-puts-battlefield-3-in-top-ten-rising-searches/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/17/google-zeitgeist-puts-battlefield-3-in-top-ten-rising-searches/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/17/google-zeitgeist-puts-battlefield-3-in-top-ten-rising-searches/#comments Google published its annual "Zeitgeist" report of the most popular searches and topics in 2011 this past week and for the first time ever, a game was included in the top ten fastest rising search terms of the year. Yes, as you've probably already guessed, it was "Gem Keeper." Wait, no, it was "Battlefield 3." EA's big shooter stirred up some interest, apparently, landing it right in between "Casey Anthony" and the "iPhone 5" in biggest gains in search popularity of the year.

When it comes to video games in North America, however, there's another title on top of the heap: "Black Ops" was the most searched-for term in the category, with "Call of Duty" coming soon after that. "Battlefield 3" didn't even make the list in the category numbers, so its overall search volume was actually lower than the Activision series. Don't count "Halo Reach" or "Super Mario" out either -- they show up at the third and fourth spots on the list in the gaming category.

And Google even shows us what 2011 searchers are most interested to play next year: "Diablo 3" and "Mass Effect 3" sit at the bottom of the list already for the most searched-for terms in gaming.

JoystiqGoogle Zeitgeist puts Battlefield 3 in top ten rising searches, Black Ops tops gaming chart originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 17 Dec 2011 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionbattlefield-3black-opscall-of-dutycall-of-duty-black-opseagooglegoogle-zeitgeistgoogle-zeitgeist-2011microsoftpcplaystationps3xboxSat, 17 Dec 2011 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Fruit Ninja's price slashed to ten cents on Android Market today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/fruit-ninjas-price-slashed-to-ten-cents-on-android-market-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/fruit-ninjas-price-slashed-to-ten-cents-on-android-market-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/fruit-ninjas-price-slashed-to-ten-cents-on-android-market-today/#comments Normally we'd be skeptical of heavily discounted fruit, but we think this offer is safe for consumption. In honor of the Android Market's ten millionth download, that platform's version of Fruit Ninja is on sale for ten cents today!

Halfbrick also informs us that Age of Zombies will be on sale for a dime this Saturday. Good thing, too -- we can't be expected to pay almost a whole dollar for every game.

JoystiqFruit Ninja's price slashed to ten cents on Android Market today originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Dec 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-zombiesandroidfruit-ninjafruit-ninja-hdgooglehalfbrick-studiosmobileWed, 07 Dec 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Google Chrome will add native gamepad support, more video and audio hooks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/25/google-chrome-will-add-native-gamepad-support-more-video-and-au/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/25/google-chrome-will-add-native-gamepad-support-more-video-and-au/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/25/google-chrome-will-add-native-gamepad-support-more-video-and-au/#comments Google's Paul Kinlan spoke at Develop Liverpool last week, and revealed that Google is aiming to add some more plug-and-play hardware support to its Chrome browser, including gamepad support. The update will also add connections to webcams and microphones, which means that Chrome could, after these updates, directly use those accessories for games and other services.

It should probably be noted that Firefox's API already allows for gamepad support, so Chrome here is just filling out the alternative. Google is also planning to cook in native support for WebRTC, an open source video chat initiative that it has helped run in the past. At this point, developers are basically just lining up APIs to work together, but setting up these built-in solutions could eventually help bring cloud gaming services right into a native Internet browser.

JoystiqGoogle Chrome will add native gamepad support, more video and audio hooks originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 Nov 2011 23:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browsercloudcloud-gaminggooglegoogle-chromepcsupportFri, 25 Nov 2011 23:56:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Do a (Google-enabled) Barrel Roll!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/psa-do-a-google-enabled-barrel-roll/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/psa-do-a-google-enabled-barrel-roll/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/psa-do-a-google-enabled-barrel-roll/#comments The thing about barrel rolls is you must do them, but sometimes your environment doesn't permit it. Maybe you're in a meeting or maybe you're locked up in a jail cell -- hey, we're not here to judge. Well, if the cops didn't end up taking your smart phone or, more oddly, your laptop, you can do a barrel roll right now.

All you have to do is load up google and type in "do a barrel roll," sit back and enjoy the ride. And if you're looking for some more Google Easter Eggs, here's a few.

JoystiqPSA: Do a (Google-enabled) Barrel Roll! originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Nov 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdsgooglenintendostar-fox-64-3dwiiwii-uThu, 03 Nov 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[CityVille launches on Google Plus]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/28/cityville-launches-on-google-plus/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/28/cityville-launches-on-google-plus/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/28/cityville-launches-on-google-plus/#comments Google Plus' casual gaming cabinet may not be as fully stocked as the Facebook alternative, but one crucial missing piece of the puzzle has just been filled in: Megalithic social monolith Zynga has ported CityVille, their most popular Facebook game, to Google's fledgling platform.

The release comes shortly after the end of Google Plus' closed beta, and now that its e-doors are open to the public, we doubt this will be the end of Zynga's extra-Facebook expansion. Seeing as the company just posted a 95 percent drop in profit year over year, developing its products beyond its existing user base is a shrewd move.

JoystiqCityVille launches on Google Plus originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Sep 2011 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casual-gamingcityvillefacebookgooglegoogle-plusmacpcsocial-networkingzyngaWed, 28 Sep 2011 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Games mentioned in Google Plus source code]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/01/games-mentioned-in-google-plus-source-code/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/01/games-mentioned-in-google-plus-source-code/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/01/games-mentioned-in-google-plus-source-code/#comments As if you needed more evidence that Google was planning a games service than the recent job listing -- and the fact that, as something you do on your computer, it falls into the category of things Google would want to own -- Engadget found a hint in some Google+ source code.

Unused code somewhere within Google's social networking service reads "... have sent you Game invites and more from Google+ Games," suggesting a Facebook-like functionality allowing users to play games socially through the service at some point in the future. It stands to reason that the Big G will probably wait until more people have Google+ and, perhaps more importantly, know how to use Google+. We know plenty of developers are relieved they didn't put too much effort into Google Buzz-based games.

JoystiqGames mentioned in Google Plus source code originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Jul 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>GOOGgooglegoogle-gamesgoogle-plusgoogle-plus-gamespcsocialFri, 01 Jul 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Games at Google service revealed in job listing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/24/games-at-google-service-revealed-in-job-listing/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/24/games-at-google-service-revealed-in-job-listing/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/24/games-at-google-service-revealed-in-job-listing/#comments Search engine giant Google is apparently looking to get even further into the gaming market, according to a job listing on its corporate site. The prospective employee would serve as a Product Manager for Games at Google, and "design strategies for game distribution and discovery, player identity, game mechanics, and more" as well as "initiate and prioritize projects within engineering, assist in determining the best technical implementation methods, track product development, and develop product launch plans."

Unfortunately, there's not much to go on so far -- the listing does refer to a "gaming platform" at Google, as well as "developer relations," so in between the lines here there's the idea of some service that would involve other developers in some way. But whether that means games actually developed and released by Google or just a portal to games online, we'll have to wait and see.

JoystiqGames at Google service revealed in job listing originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Jun 2011 22:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamesgames-at-googlegooglegoogle-gamesjob-listingpcproject-managerrumorFri, 24 Jun 2011 22:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Angry Birds launch assault on internet browsers, Chrome OS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/11/angry-birds-launch-assault-on-internet-browsers-chrome-os/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/11/angry-birds-launch-assault-on-internet-browsers-chrome-os/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/11/angry-birds-launch-assault-on-internet-browsers-chrome-os/#comments Finnish developer Rovio Mobile marked yet another victory in its ongoing plan to bring the incredibly popular Angry Birds to every possible electronic device that human beings use, announcing during Google's I/O 2011 Conference that Angry Birds is available as an in-browser application. Like ... right now!

Like the Android version, it's free-to-play and microtransaction-supported, but unlike the Android version, a handful of web-exclusive features have been added. Notably, "Chrome bombs" and some "exclusive Chrome levels" are both new additions -- unsurprisingly, the pay-per-use "Mighty Eagle" will return. And yes, you can play the game in browsers other than Chrome (and in operating systems other than Chrome OS).

JoystiqAngry Birds launch assault on internet browsers, Chrome OS originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 May 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>angry-birdschromechrome-oschrome-web-storefree-to-playgooglemacmicrotransactionspcq2-2011release-dateroviorovio-mobileWed, 11 May 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation emulator for Android goes free and open source]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/08/playstation-emulator-for-android-goes-free-and-open-source/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/08/playstation-emulator-for-android-goes-free-and-open-source/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/08/playstation-emulator-for-android-goes-free-and-open-source/#comments PSX4Droid, the PSOne emulator for Android that got the smackdown from Google recently, has found a surefire way of getting around the ban: Go free and open source. The latest version of the software does just that, skipping out on Google's market completely and putting both the app and the source code online for anyone to download and check out.

Developer "ZodTTD" says that the original Sony complaint only had to do with a trademarked logo that had snuck into the app's icon, but since then, Google has closed both his Android Market and CheckOut accounts, leaving him unable to publish any apps. As a result, he's self-publishing PSX4Droid, and will be exploring other third-party markets to sell the app in. In the meantime, you can go enjoy the new version, which adds better compatibility and performance, though save files from the previous version will no longer work.

JoystiqPlayStation emulator for Android goes free and open source originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Apr 2011 00:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid-marketemulationemulatorgooglemobileplaystationpsx4droidsonyzodttdFri, 08 Apr 2011 00:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PSOne games begin appearing on Android Market, limited to Xperia Play]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/psone-games-begin-appearing-on-android-market-limited-to-xperia/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/psone-games-begin-appearing-on-android-market-limited-to-xperia/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/psone-games-begin-appearing-on-android-market-limited-to-xperia/#comments As both Europe and North America count down the (still unknown) days until the launch of Sony Ericsson's Xperia Play smart phone, PSOne games compatible with the "PlayStation Phone" have started popping up on the Android Market. Five games, in fact, including Cool Boarders 2, Destruction Derby, Jumping Flash, MediEvil 2 and Syphon Filter. That's right -- the Play is ready to, er, play like it's circa 1995-97.

All of the games are selling for £3.99 ($6) -- the same going price as on PSN. MediEvil 2 and Syphon Filter are available in five languages (English, French, German, Italian and Spanish) while the rest are English-only releases. They're also all (predictably) platform-locked to the Xperia Play (Sony Ericsson R800i). All this one day after Google removed the PSOne emulator, PSX4Droid, attributing the action to a Content Policy violation.

JoystiqPSOne games begin appearing on Android Market, limited to Xperia Play originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 31 Mar 2011 19:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>android-marketcool-boarders-2destruction-derbygooglejumping-flashmedievil-2mobileplaystation-phonepsonesmart-phonesonysony-ericssonsyphon-filterxperia-playThu, 31 Mar 2011 19:10:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation emulator pulled from Android Market, dev suggests Xperia Play to blame]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/30/playstation-emulator-pulled-from-android-market-dev-suggests-xp/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/30/playstation-emulator-pulled-from-android-market-dev-suggests-xp/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/30/playstation-emulator-pulled-from-android-market-dev-suggests-xp/#comments With the launch of Sony Ericsson's Android-powered "PlayStation Phone," the Xperia Play, supposedly right around the corner, Google has pulled the plug on a prominent PSOne emulator for its mobile OS. According to its author, "zodttd," PSX4Droid was removed from the Android Market without warning due to a "Content Policy violation," though he suspects it has more to do with Sony's imminent smart phone offering. "Sony's Xperia Play must be coming soon," tweeted the dev, adding that, "The timing is suspicious with no remedy."

As for alternatives to the Android Market, PSX4Droid's maker says he's a "bit worried to go to Amazon App Store" since "people who own the Market version would have to buy it again to update." Meanwhile, another PSOne emulator for Android, fpse, remains available on the Market. We've contacted Sony for its response to the app's removal and are awaiting comment.

JoystiqPlayStation emulator pulled from Android Market, dev suggests Xperia Play to blame originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 Mar 2011 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid-marketemulatorgooglemobilePlaystation-PhonePSonesceasonysony-ericssonxperia-playWed, 30 Mar 2011 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[In-app purchasing coming to Android Market next week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/25/in-app-purchasing-coming-to-android-market-next-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/25/in-app-purchasing-coming-to-android-market-next-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/25/in-app-purchasing-coming-to-android-market-next-week/#comments Google has launched the final testing phase for in-app purchases in Android Market products, with the feature set to make its public debut next week. Developers are encouraged to upload and test in-app content and transactions on the Developer Console "right away."

But hang on: First, it's "absolutely essential" for developers to review the security guidelines, Google notes. You wouldn't want the Ring of Doom slipping through the cracks and into the wrong hands, would you? Obfuscate your code!

JoystiqIn-app purchasing coming to Android Market next week originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 Mar 2011 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid-marketdlcgooglein-app-billingin-app-purchasesmobileFri, 25 Mar 2011 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[YouTube seeking developers for 'console-based TV experience']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/17/youtube-seeking-developers-for-console-based-tv-experience/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/17/youtube-seeking-developers-for-console-based-tv-experience/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/17/youtube-seeking-developers-for-console-based-tv-experience/#comments Google is, apparently, a wonderful place to work, but its products have rarely afforded video game developers an opportunity to work for the company. Well, until now.

YouTube is seeking to build a "next generation game-console-based TV experience with YouTube video content," and is seeking programmers with "deep technical knowledge of Microsoft Xbox 360, Sony PlayStation 3 and/or Nintendo Wii." Given the everyday stories of layoffs in our industry, there will be no dearth of qualified applicants.

Google currently offers a functional, but not particularly optimized, experience for Wii and PS3 via the consoles' internet browsers called YouTube XL (pictured above). Think you can make something better than this?

JoystiqYouTube seeking developers for 'console-based TV experience' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 Feb 2011 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>GoogleJobsMicrosoftNintendoPlaystationPs3WiiXboxYoutubeThu, 17 Feb 2011 17:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Kongregate Arcade back in Android Marketplace, with some minor changes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/25/kongregate-arcade-back-in-android-marketplace-with-some-minor-c/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/25/kongregate-arcade-back-in-android-marketplace-with-some-minor-c/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/25/kongregate-arcade-back-in-android-marketplace-with-some-minor-c/#comments Exactly one week after Kongregate's promising mobile app, Kongregate Arcade, made its tumultuous debut on the Android Marketplace (from which it was pulled from the very same day!) the browser-based gaming platform is ready for round two with Google, and has resubmitted the app. "We were just shocked," CEO Jim Greer told Joystiq after his app had been removed, an unusual move for the traditionally hands-off Google.

In preparing the app for resubmission, Greer and company made some subtle, but potentially crucial, changes to the app. First: Though the original app played games in a standard WebKit browser, Kongregate Arcade obfuscated that experience by hiding the browser's address bar. Now, the address bar is visible when the app first loads, and then it jumps to full-screen, "which is a standard feature of Flash," Greer reminds us (and Google, we imagine). Second: Kongregate Arcade will now use the standard browser cache to store its "offline" files instead of "explicitly downloading and managing games on the SD card."

Greer hopes that these changes help Kongregate Arcade "meet Google's requirement that we're not creating a competing App Store while still creating a great gaming experience." The new app is live in the Android Marketplace now, so we'll just have to wait and see if Google has any concerns this time around. If you want to sideload the original Arcade app, it's still available from Kongregate's site, though Greer tells us, "We'll work with Google to determine if we should stop supporting that version." You can find a video demo of the app (and its new changes) after the break. If you're an Android user, snag it and let us know what you think.

Continue reading Kongregate Arcade back in Android Marketplace, with some minor changes

JoystiqKongregate Arcade back in Android Marketplace, with some minor changes originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 25 Jan 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidGoogleKongregateKongregate-ArcademobilepcTue, 25 Jan 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Kongregate Arcade removed from Android Market]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/18/kongregate-arcade-removed-from-android-market/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/18/kongregate-arcade-removed-from-android-market/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/18/kongregate-arcade-removed-from-android-market/#comments Launched earlier today, the Kongregate Arcade app for Android-based phones has been removed from the Android Market for reasons unknown. Joystiq received word from a GameStop and Kongregate representative that it had been pulled, along with the following statement:
As reported earlier today, the Kongregate Arcade app was launched on the Android Market and was enthusiastically received by the gaming community, receiving 4.5 out of 5 stars. Tens of thousands of users successfully downloaded the new app but, due to unknown reasons, Google has pulled it from the Market. Gamers wishing to experience Kongregate Arcade will be happy to learn it is now available for download at http://kongregate.com/android.
Additionally, Kongregate has updated its Twitter feed with word that it is "working with Google to restore access in the Market." We've contacted Google for comment and will update as soon as we hear back.

Update: Google has informed Joystiq that the app was in violation of the Android Market Developer Distribution Agreement because the app itself was distributing other apps. However, there is nothing prohibiting Flash developers from making apps available on the market wrapped in an individual apk.

JoystiqKongregate Arcade removed from Android Market originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 18 Jan 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid-marketappgoogleKongregateKongregate-ArcademobileTue, 18 Jan 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Google game developer advocate leaves after four months]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/26/google-game-developer-advocate-leaves-after-four-months/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/26/google-game-developer-advocate-leaves-after-four-months/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/26/google-game-developer-advocate-leaves-after-four-months/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Mark Deloura was hired by Google in April to work with game developers on content for Google's browser-based app store. In a blog post, Deloura has announced that he left the company this week. "There are a lot of very interesting things going on at Google right now," Deloura said, "and I enjoyed working with many of the people there, but it was not the perfect fit for me."

Deloura went on to talk at length about the importance of easy access to middleware and cross-platform development. The increasing use of web services can abstract away a lot of the need for platform-specific SDK features," he said, "but there's still a lot of work to do all around. Games aren't getting cheaper to make, that's for sure, and it's important that technically complex features are still easily available to independent developers working alone."

During Deloura's tenure, Google announced its Chrome Web Store, purchased Slide, and -- in what may be Google's most successful browser gaming initiative yet -- made that neat Pac-Man logo game.

JoystiqGoogle game developer advocate leaves after four months originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Aug 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>googlegoogle-gamesmark-delourapcThu, 26 Aug 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Google buys casual dev Slide]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/06/report-google-buys-casual-dev-slide/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/06/report-google-buys-casual-dev-slide/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/06/report-google-buys-casual-dev-slide/#commentsFiled under: , ,

TechCrunch brings news today of the latest kick from the gestating fetus that is "Google Games." The site reports that search giant Google spent $187 million to purchase Slide, developer of the SuperPoke series and other casual games the names of which are actually too sad to type. This comes after a rumored $100 million investment in 'Ville vets Zynga.

This is the point where we'd typically talk about how we're eagerly anticipating the launch of or at least more details on Google Games. But it's becoming abundantly clear from these leaks that we're going to not care about it so hard that it may register on the Richter scale.

JoystiqReport: Google buys casual dev Slide originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Aug 2010 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualgooglegoogle-gamesmacpcslideFri, 06 Aug 2010 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Google invests $100+ million in Zynga, preparing to launch gaming platform]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/12/rumor-google-invests-100-million-in-zynga-preparing-to-launc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/12/rumor-google-invests-100-million-in-zynga-preparing-to-launc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/12/rumor-google-invests-100-million-in-zynga-preparing-to-launc/#comments Google has "secretly" invested an undisclosed amount of money (estimated to be between $100 million and $200 million) in virtual Ville creator Zynga Games, TechCrunch claims. Why would one highly profitable company dump such a large amount of duckets into another successful company's coffers? TechCrunch believes that it's part of a strategy to partner with Zynga Games in the forthcoming launch of something called "Google Games."

The service is said to use Google logins and will presumably run the Zynga titles popularized by Facebook, albeit with a different payment system (allegedly Google Checkout rather than PayPal). Though these claims are still unsubstantiated -- neither Google nor Zynga have officially confirmed the report -- a recent Google job listing for a "Project Management Leader, games" seems to lend the idea some credence.

JoystiqRumor: Google invests $100+ million in Zynga, preparing to launch gaming platform originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Jul 2010 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualfarmvillefrontiervillegooglegoogle-gamesmacmobilepcrumorzyngaMon, 12 Jul 2010 09:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Impress your friends with Space InvadAR Android app]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/02/impress-your-friends-with-space-invadar-android-app/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/02/impress-your-friends-with-space-invadar-android-app/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/02/impress-your-friends-with-space-invadar-android-app/#comments There are two ways in which your acquaintances will likely be impressed should you load up Zenitum's Space InvadAR app on your Android-equipped device:
  1. Using a picture of the Earth, it creates a pretty neat augmented reality overlay which forces you to defend the planet from a neverending onslaught of circling extraterrestrials. Line up your shot using your mobile device's camera, and drop your favorite Independence Day quote as you blast aliens from the sky.
  2. The app itself costs $25, so your friends should be wowed by your apparently vast amounts of expendable income.
Check out a video of the pricey application after the jump.

Continue reading Impress your friends with Space InvadAR Android app

JoystiqImpress your friends with Space InvadAR Android app originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Jun 2010 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappaugmented-realityGooglemobilespace-invadarspace-invadersWed, 02 Jun 2010 00:00:00 EST