Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[GTA IV mod has R2-D2 destroying Liberty City]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/20/gta-iv-mod-has-r2-d2-destroying-liberty-city/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/20/gta-iv-mod-has-r2-d2-destroying-liberty-city/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/20/gta-iv-mod-has-r2-d2-destroying-liberty-city/#comments
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A new Grand Theft Auto IV mod has surfaced, and features quite an angry little robot. Created by YouTube user jmoorfoot4, the mod gives players the ability to roam the streets of Liberty City as R2-D2.

As the video above demonstrates, R2-D2 is just as pushy and capable of destruction as Niko Bellic ever was. Watch it for a good laugh, though we're not sure it tops the removal of wheel friction in the game.

JoystiqGTA IV mod has R2-D2 destroying Liberty City originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 20 May 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Grand-Theft-Auto-4GTA4GTAIVmodpcR2-D2RockStarrockstar-northSun, 20 May 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rockstar head Houser nabs Capote mansion for $12.5 million]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/rockstar-head-houser-nabs-capote-mansion-for-12-5-million/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/rockstar-head-houser-nabs-capote-mansion-for-12-5-million/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/rockstar-head-houser-nabs-capote-mansion-for-12-5-million/#comments Dan Houser is the vice president of Rockstar Games. Rockstar Games makes some astoundingly popular games -- games that have net him quite a bit of dough over the years. So what does a super rich New Yorker with a flair for the creative do with all that dough? He buys a $12.5 million house, of course. And not just any house, but Truman Capote's original haunt in New York's Brooklyn Heights neighborhood (in "Broker" for all you GTAIV fans).

The beautiful canary yellow house features 18 rooms (11 bedrooms alone) and its $12.5 million asking price is the largest tag attached to a house in the Brooklyn Heights neighborhood (as in, "of all time"). Houser also owns a loft on Greene Street in lower Manhattan, making the new locale his "vacation home." At least that's what we assume people refer to their Brooklyn homes as when they also own property in Manhattan. Those bridges are pretty long, ya know!

[Image credit: StreetEasy]

JoystiqRockstar head Houser nabs Capote mansion for $12.5 million originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Mar 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dan-houserGrand-Theft-Auto-4GTA4moneyrockstarrockstar-gamesso-so-so-much-moneyWed, 21 Mar 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GTA 4 mod iCEnhancer 2.0 out now, like a car wash for your graphics]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/12/gta-4-mod-icenhancer-2-0-out-now-like-a-car-wash-for-your-graph/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/12/gta-4-mod-icenhancer-2-0-out-now-like-a-car-wash-for-your-graph/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/12/gta-4-mod-icenhancer-2-0-out-now-like-a-car-wash-for-your-graph/#comments

The famous iCEnhancer mod for Grand Theft Auto 4 has reached its biggest full number yet with the release of 2.0. The above video shows off its beautifying features -- the bugs are from Rockstar's video editor and won't appear in the mod, creator Ice La Glace says -- and a "natural" version of 2.0 is set to drop any day now.

Download iCEnhancer 2.0 from Ice's website by clicking the farthest-right icon (the one that looks like a "download" arrow, surprisingly) and enjoy the shininess of GTA 4 all over again.

JoystiqGTA 4 mod iCEnhancer 2.0 out now, like a car wash for your graphics originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 12 Feb 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Grand-Theft-Auto-4gta-4-modGTA4icenhanceriCEnhancer-2.0modpcSun, 12 Feb 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Terminator T-1 mod gives us a taste of our future in GTA IV]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/terminator-t-1-mod-gives-us-a-taste-of-our-future-in-gta-iv/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/terminator-t-1-mod-gives-us-a-taste-of-our-future-in-gta-iv/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/terminator-t-1-mod-gives-us-a-taste-of-our-future-in-gta-iv/#comments
We often kid about the grim future we all know is humanity's destiny, when the robots rise up and take the planet from us. We never try to think about what it's like to be them; what it's like to be in their chrome feet.

A new mod for GTA IV on the PC from William Peddell brings us closer to understanding our future nemesis, replacing protagonist Niko Bellic with an eerily accurate Terminator. Peddell is quite adept at custom skins, having produced a number of mods celebrating Resident Evil, Batman: Arkham City, Uncharted and many more. His mod profile page showcases hours of hard work.

But in the end we're partial to his "Terminator T-1" mod, since it's such a strong teaching aid -- especially in the video above. When the robots rebel, we'll know that standing directly in front of their guns isn't a viable course to victory.

JoystiqTerminator T-1 mod gives us a taste of our future in GTA IV originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Jan 2012 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Grand-Theft-Auto-4gta-4-modgta-iv-modGTA4modniko-bellicpcrockstarrockstar-gamesterminatorwilliam-peddellThu, 12 Jan 2012 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GTA IV surpasses 22M shipped, franchise at 114M total]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/gta-iv-surpasses-22m-shipped-franchise-at-114m-total/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/gta-iv-surpasses-22m-shipped-franchise-at-114m-total/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/gta-iv-surpasses-22m-shipped-franchise-at-114m-total/#comments Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick revealed at a recent conference that Grand Theft Auto 4 has shipped over 22 million units. Gamasutra listened in on ThinkEquity's Growth conference, where the executive noted that the latest installment surpassed the 21.5 million shipped by GTA: San Andreas, with the franchise reaching 114 million shipped since 1997.

Zelnick also discussed how downloadable content can limit rapid used sales for new titles, a tactic the developer experimented with for GTA IV but got exceedingly good at with Red Dead Redemption. He said that once core development is done, doing the development for DLC in a high-quality way is a lot easier and quicker.

"At the time we put out Red Dead Redemption in May, we didn't even have a fantasy that we'd be putting out a zombie title [the Undead Nightmare DLC] for Halloween. But we [did], as it happens." Red Dead Redemption has shipped 12.5 million units in a little over a year.

JoystiqGTA IV surpasses 22M shipped, franchise at 114M total originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Sep 2011 20:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Grand-Theft-Auto-4GTA4microsoftpcplaystationps3red-dead-redemptionRockstarRockstar-GamesTake-TwoTake-Two-InteractivexboxFri, 16 Sep 2011 20:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Grand Theft Auto IV goes to Vice City in mod]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/07/grand-theft-auto-iv-goes-to-vice-city-in-mod/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/07/grand-theft-auto-iv-goes-to-vice-city-in-mod/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/07/grand-theft-auto-iv-goes-to-vice-city-in-mod/#comments
Love the fancy graphics of Grand Theft Auto IV but hate the dearth of neon colors and cheap, plentiful cocaine? Keep an eye on Team RAGE's "Vice City Rage" mod -- which brings the Miami flavor to GTA IV -- due this Christmas. Happy birthday, Jesus. We got you a rocket launcher.

JoystiqGrand Theft Auto IV goes to Vice City in mod originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Sep 2011 22:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Grand-Theft-Auto-4grand-theft-auto-vice-cityGTA4modpcrockstarWed, 07 Sep 2011 22:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Grand Theft Auto 4 has never looked better (but will in the next iCEnhancer mod, we're sure)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/13/grand-theft-auto-4-has-never-looked-better-but-will-in-the-next/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/13/grand-theft-auto-4-has-never-looked-better-but-will-in-the-next/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/13/grand-theft-auto-4-has-never-looked-better-but-will-in-the-next/#comments Liberty City wasn't built in a beta, but when the Grand Theft Auto 4 iCEnhancer mod is finally done, we bet it will be more beautiful than Rome itself (How's that for a trip around the world?). iCEnhancer has released photos of its 1.3 beta, in the Second Phase and Pre-release stage, and some of these screens are looking better than reality. If anything, they certainly smell better than reality.

Check out the goods on the iCEnhancer Facebook page, or take a peek at a video from the 1.2.5 version, which is only .0.5-percent less mind-blowing than the current beta.

JoystiqGrand Theft Auto 4 has never looked better (but will in the next iCEnhancer mod, we're sure) originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 13 Aug 2011 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Grand-Theft-Auto-4graphicsGTA4icenhancermodpcphotorealismSat, 13 Aug 2011 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GTA 4 engine mod looks gorgeous; latest update adds cloudy weather]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/05/gta-4-engine-mod-looks-gorgeous-latest-update-adds-cloudy-weath/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/05/gta-4-engine-mod-looks-gorgeous-latest-update-adds-cloudy-weath/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/05/gta-4-engine-mod-looks-gorgeous-latest-update-adds-cloudy-weath/#comments
The iCEnhancer mod is one for the graphics enthusiasts. The full engine mod adds several beautiful effects and higher resolution textures to the PC version of GTA IV. An overview of update 1.2.5, which is "almost done" according to mod creator Hayssam Keilany, can be seen in the video above.

Continue reading GTA 4 engine mod looks gorgeous; latest update adds cloudy weather

JoystiqGTA 4 engine mod looks gorgeous; latest update adds cloudy weather originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Jul 2011 00:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Grand-Theft-Auto-4GTA4icenhancermodmodspcrockstartake-towTue, 05 Jul 2011 00:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Grand Theft Auto 4's Liberty City mapped in Google Street View]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/30/grand-theft-auto-4s-liberty-city-mapped-in-google-street-view/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/30/grand-theft-auto-4s-liberty-city-mapped-in-google-street-view/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/30/grand-theft-auto-4s-liberty-city-mapped-in-google-street-view/#comments We know that most of you have probably memorized every square inch of Grand Theft Auto 4's massive metropolitan playground, but for the less cartographically inclined, GTA4.net has created an invaluable resource. Using the Google Maps API and over 80,000 screenshots, the site has created an interactive, near-complete map of Rockstar's virtual New York City.

The map's coolest feature is, hands down, its ability to look through each and every avenue of Liberty City using Street View, which makes locating each and every Burger Shot an absolute breeze. In fact, this feature is so neat, we hope they somehow find a way to put a map together for L.A. Noire's setting! Oh, wait.

JoystiqGrand Theft Auto 4's Liberty City mapped in Google Street View originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 May 2011 21:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>google-mapsGrand-Theft-Auto-4GTA4mapmicrosoftpcplaystationps3rockstar-gamesrockstar-northxboxMon, 30 May 2011 21:15:00 EST<![CDATA[The Brothers Mario return in GTA IV machinima 'Kong Country']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/28/the-brothers-mario-return-in-gta-iv-machinima-kong-country/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/28/the-brothers-mario-return-in-gta-iv-machinima-kong-country/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/28/the-brothers-mario-return-in-gta-iv-machinima-kong-country/#comments Machinima stars The Brothers Mario are back, and they've brought a new character with them: "Don Keykong," a mob boss who's bananas for vengeance. Along with all of the other cameos, there's even a music video for the gangsta anthem featured in the trailer. Being a plumber has never been so badass.

Continue reading The Brothers Mario return in GTA IV machinima 'Kong Country'

JoystiqThe Brothers Mario return in GTA IV machinima 'Kong Country' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Mar 2011 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>donkey-kongfunnyGrand-Theft-Auto-4gta-ivGTA4humormachinimamario-brothersRockStarthe-brothers-marioMon, 28 Mar 2011 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Limited edition Grand Theft Auto PS3 now up on eBay]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/03/limited-edition-grand-theft-auto-ps3-now-up-on-ebay/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/03/limited-edition-grand-theft-auto-ps3-now-up-on-ebay/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/03/limited-edition-grand-theft-auto-ps3-now-up-on-ebay/#comments You've already got an impressive GTA memorabilia collection, including that Vice City retail stand-up and actual warrant for your arrest for Grand Theft Auto -- however, if you need a crown jewel, check out this Episodes from Liberty City-branded, limited edition PS3 Slim on eBay.

Continue reading Limited edition Grand Theft Auto PS3 now up on eBay

JoystiqLimited edition Grand Theft Auto PS3 now up on eBay originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Feb 2011 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctionebayGrand-Theft-Auto-4GTA4playstationps3rockstarThu, 03 Feb 2011 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wheel friction removed from GTA IV, chaos ensues]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/14/wheel-friction-removed-from-gta-iv-chaos-ensues/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/14/wheel-friction-removed-from-gta-iv-chaos-ensues/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/14/wheel-friction-removed-from-gta-iv-chaos-ensues/#comments We didn't know Liberty City could get any more dangerous until we saw what YouTube user "dot12321" had done with the place. By adjusting the wheel friction on GTA IV's vehicles to a negative value, dot12321 spawned some truly killer cars. See the complete and utter chaos after the break.

Continue reading Wheel friction removed from GTA IV, chaos ensues

JoystiqWheel friction removed from GTA IV, chaos ensues originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 Jan 2011 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Grand-Theft-Auto-4GTA4microsoftpcplaystationps3rockstarxboxFri, 14 Jan 2011 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Trashmaster, a full-length film made entirely in GTA IV]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/11/the-trashmaster-a-full-length-film-made-entirely-in-gta-iv/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/11/the-trashmaster-a-full-length-film-made-entirely-in-gta-iv/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/11/the-trashmaster-a-full-length-film-made-entirely-in-gta-iv/#comments Mathieu Weschler has toiled away for the last two years on his opus, The Trashmaster -- a feature-length film created entirely in GTA IV about a rogue garbageman who's looking to take out the human trash.

Continue reading The Trashmaster, a full-length film made entirely in GTA IV

JoystiqThe Trashmaster, a full-length film made entirely in GTA IV originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Jan 2011 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Grand-Theft-Auto-4GTA4mathieu-weschlermicrosoftpcplaystationps3the-trashmasterxboxTue, 11 Jan 2011 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA['The Brothers Mario' machinima brings the Mushroom Kingdom to Liberty City]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/15/the-brothers-mario-machinima-brings-the-mushroom-kingdom-to-li/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/15/the-brothers-mario-machinima-brings-the-mushroom-kingdom-to-li/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/15/the-brothers-mario-machinima-brings-the-mushroom-kingdom-to-li/#comments Usually, we balk at fan-made creations that take innocent, classic game characters and put them in mature scenarios. That's not the case with this GTA IV machinima, The Brothers Mario -- not because it's especially hilarious, mind you, but because it's actually, unbelievably badass.

Continue reading 'The Brothers Mario' machinima brings the Mushroom Kingdom to Liberty City

Joystiq'The Brothers Mario' machinima brings the Mushroom Kingdom to Liberty City originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Dec 2010 12:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Grand-Theft-Auto-4GTA4machinimamicrosoftpcplaystationps3super-mario-brosxboxWed, 15 Dec 2010 12:40:00 EST<![CDATA[GTA IV: Episodes from Liberty City ordered off shelves by Brazillian court over music licensing issue]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/20/gta-iv-episodes-from-liberty-city-ordered-off-shelves-by-brazil/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/20/gta-iv-episodes-from-liberty-city-ordered-off-shelves-by-brazil/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/20/gta-iv-episodes-from-liberty-city-ordered-off-shelves-by-brazil/#comments A Brazilian court has apparently ordered that worldwide sales of Grand Theft Auto IV: Episodes From Liberty City cease because a song in the game was used without consent. The Associated Press reports that the Third Civil Court in Barueri will fine Rockstar Games and Brazilian distributor Synergex $3,000 per day if the order isn't obeyed. The order was apparently issued on September 27 and can be appealed.

The song that Rockstar allegedly did not get the rights to is called "Bota o Dedinho pro Alto." Brazilian distributor Synergex claims it had not been notified of the court's decision. You can check out the song after the break.

[Thanks, Bill O.]

Continue reading GTA IV: Episodes from Liberty City ordered off shelves by Brazillian court over music licensing issue

JoystiqGTA IV: Episodes from Liberty City ordered off shelves by Brazillian court over music licensing issue originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Oct 2010 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Gay-TonyGrand-Theft-Auto-4Grand-Theft-Auto-4-The-Ballad-Of-Gay-TonyGTA4GTA4-The-Ballad-Of-Gay-Tonymicrosoftplaystationps3The-Ballad-Of-Gay-TonyxboxWed, 20 Oct 2010 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA['Grand Theft Auto IV: Complete' due on Oct. 26, retailers say]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/05/grand-theft-auto-iv-complete-listing/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/05/grand-theft-auto-iv-complete-listing/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/05/grand-theft-auto-iv-complete-listing/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Uniting the trinity of Liberty City's anti-heros in one bundle, Grand Theft Auto IV: Complete should be out by the end of October, according to a couple of major retailers. As picked up by Gamespot, both Amazon and GameStop have the $40 game listed for PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 with an October 26 release date.

The "complete edition" includes the original Grand Theft Auto IV, motorcycle gang add-on The Lost and Damned and the "never own a night club" fable The Ballad of Gay Tony, all in one box. It seems like a great way to catch up before Rockstar announces the next GTA.

Joystiq'Grand Theft Auto IV: Complete' due on Oct. 26, retailers say originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Oct 2010 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Grand-Theft-Auto-4Grand-Theft-Auto-Liberty-City-StoriesGTA-Liberty-City-StoriesGTA4Liberty-City-Storiesmicrosoftplaystationps3RockstarTake-Two-InteractivexboxTue, 05 Oct 2010 09:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Rockstar wins 'substantial' damages for GTA Rothbury story]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/04/rockstar-wins-substantial-damages-for-gta-rothbury-story/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/04/rockstar-wins-substantial-damages-for-gta-rothbury-story/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/04/rockstar-wins-substantial-damages-for-gta-rothbury-story/#commentsFiled under: , ,

UK tabloid The Daily Star will pay "substantial damages" to Grand Theft Auto creator Rockstar Games over a false story claiming the publisher was working on Grand Theft Auto: Rothbury. Rockstar sued the newspaper after it made the claim in July that the company was working on a game based upon the events of a manhunt in north east England.

The false newspaper story was also accompanied by what was implied to be the cover of the game. A lawyer for the newspaper acknowledged that the claims against Rockstar were untrue and apologized for the "upset and damaged caused."

JoystiqRockstar wins 'substantial' damages for GTA Rothbury story originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Oct 2010 12:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BritainenglandGrand-Theft-Auto-4Grand-Theft-Auto-RothburyGTA4rockstarThe-Daily-StarukMon, 04 Oct 2010 12:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live Deal of the Week: Ballad of Gay Tony for $15]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/10/xbox-live-deal-of-the-week-ballad-of-gay-tony-for-15/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/10/xbox-live-deal-of-the-week-ballad-of-gay-tony-for-15/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/10/xbox-live-deal-of-the-week-ballad-of-gay-tony-for-15/#comments If you've been waiting for an excuse to sink your felonious teeth into the Grand Theft Auto IV expansion The Ballad of Gay Tony, listen up. This week's Xbox Live Deal of the Week, you see, knocks the usual 1600 ($20) price of Gay Tony down to a more palatable 1200 ($15). Not bad for a night of virtual clubbing in Liberty City. That said, if you haven't picked up The Lost and Damned (the other GTA IV expansion) either, you can grab the full Episodes from Liberty City package for $30 from GameStop or Amazon.

[Via Major Nelson]


Xbox.com: Add The Ballad of Gay Tony to your Xbox 360 download queue ($15)

JoystiqXbox Live Deal of the Week: Ballad of Gay Tony for $15 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 May 2010 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deal-of-the-weekdealsepisodes-from-liberty-citygrand-theft-auto-4grand-theft-auto-ivgta4gtaivMicrosoftrockstarsalethe-ballad-of-gay-tonyxblmXbox-360xbox-liveMon, 10 May 2010 12:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Rockstar's Agent sneaks into 2010 release window]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/06/rockstars-agent-sneaks-into-2010-release-window/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/06/rockstars-agent-sneaks-into-2010-release-window/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/06/rockstars-agent-sneaks-into-2010-release-window/#comments Aside from the game's exclusivity to the PlayStation 3 and the logo you see above, we've seen little else about upcoming '70s espionage game Agent. But while answering some fan questions about next month's GTA IV expansion, The Ballad of Gay Tony, on its forums, Rockstar North mentions that it's "working hard on a lineup of PlayStation 3 releases for 2010 ... including Red Dead Redemption, Max Payne 3, and the PlayStation 3 exclusive AGENT."

The statement goes on to tease "yet to be announced" titles, possibly lending some credence to Michael Pachter's statements on another GTA game in the not- so-distant future. Considering Rockstar's statements were made in response to queries about GTA IV DLC coming to PS3, we wouldn't be surprised if those "yet to be announced" titles are the result of Microsoft's timed-exclusivity expiring.

[Via Superannuation]

JoystiqRockstar's Agent sneaks into 2010 release window originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 06 Sep 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>agentgrand-theft-auto-ivgta-4gta-ivgta4gtaivmax-payne-3michael-pachterred-dead-redemptionrockstarrockstar-gamesrockstar-northsuperannuationthe-ballad-of-gay-tonySun, 06 Sep 2009 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Utah game bill one step closer, Thompson speaks to Joystiq]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/24/utah-game-bill-one-step-closer-thompson-speaks-to-joystiq/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/24/utah-game-bill-one-step-closer-thompson-speaks-to-joystiq/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/24/utah-game-bill-one-step-closer-thompson-speaks-to-joystiq/#comments
Whoever said being a Bar-licensed, practicing lawyer had anything to do with amending existing laws has clearly never met Jack Thompson. Thompson's most recent game bill, authored by Representative Mike Morley and Mr. Thompson, was resoundingly passed (at 10-3) by the Business and Labor Committee of the Utah House of Representatives yesterday. What does this mean for Utah residents? Well, nothing yet, as the bill is now headed off to the full Utah House of Representatives for consideration.

If the bill goes into law, however, retailers of all varieties in the state (from big-box outlets like Best Buy and Wal-Mart to independent theater owners) will be facing a $2000 fine for every documented sale of mature-rated content to a minor. We wanted some clarification on the law and it's possible ramifications, so we went straight to the source. After the jump you can see for yourself everything Mr. Thompson told us about his recently penned bill.

Continue reading Utah game bill one step closer, Thompson speaks to Joystiq

JoystiqUtah game bill one step closer, Thompson speaks to Joystiq originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Feb 2009 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>game-lawgta-4gta-ivgta4gtaivjack-thompsonlawutahutah-game-billTue, 24 Feb 2009 17:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Lost, Damned, and caught on video]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/23/lost-damned-and-caught-on-video/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/23/lost-damned-and-caught-on-video/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/23/lost-damned-and-caught-on-video/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Meet Billy, he's lost. Meet Malc, he's probably lost too. Possibly damned, we don't know for sure. Together, they make for one zany couple. Wonder what kind of hi-jinx they like to get into? See for yourself after break.

Gallery: Grand Theft Auto IV: The Lost and Damned DLC

Continue reading Lost, Damned, and caught on video

JoystiqLost, Damned, and caught on video originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 Jan 2009 19:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>grand-theft-autogrand-theft-auto-4grand-theft-auto-ivgtagta4gtaivlost-and-damnedthe-lost-and-damnedXbox-360Fri, 23 Jan 2009 19:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Meet Billy and Malc from GTAIV's Lost and Damned]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/23/video-meet-billy-and-malc-from-gtaivs-lost-and-damned/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/23/video-meet-billy-and-malc-from-gtaivs-lost-and-damned/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/23/video-meet-billy-and-malc-from-gtaivs-lost-and-damned/#commentsFiled under:


Rockstar has released two new trailers for the upcoming Grand Theft Auto IV "Lost and Damned" DLC, each showcasing one of the episode's new characters. The first, Billy Grey, is the leader of The Lost, Liberty City's notorious biker gang. A walking bad attitude with a leather jacket, let's just say he's not the kind of guy you'd want hanging around your sister. Or anyone close to you. Or yourself, for that matter. Malc, on the other hand, is a tough customer himself and looks to be a member of a different kind of biker gang. Are we sensing a conflict between these two groups?

Yes. Yes, we believe we are. Check out both trailers after the break.

Gallery: Grand Theft Auto IV: The Lost and Damned

Continue reading Video: Meet Billy and Malc from GTAIV's Lost and Damned

JoystiqVideo: Meet Billy and Malc from GTAIV's Lost and Damned originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 Jan 2009 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>grand-theft-auto-4grand-theft-auto-ivgta4gtaivlost-and-damnedrockstartake-twothe-lost-and-damnedFri, 23 Jan 2009 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: First look at GTAIV's Lost and Damned]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/15/video-first-look-at-gtaivs-lost-and-damned/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/15/video-first-look-at-gtaivs-lost-and-damned/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/15/video-first-look-at-gtaivs-lost-and-damned/#commentsFiled under:


Not only did last evening's Spike Video Game Awards bring Gears of War 2 DLC news, it also brought us our first look at Grand Theft Auto IV's upcoming Lost and Damned episodic expansion. Just as promised. You can view the exclusive Lost and Damned trailer after the break and begin pondering whether 1600 Microsoft points is worth admission into a biker gang. Truth be told, you'll get some fashionable leather apparel, but the motorcycle speeds wreak havoc on the health of your hair. We're talking split ends.

Continue reading Video: First look at GTAIV's Lost and Damned

JoystiqVideo: First look at GTAIV's Lost and Damned originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 15 Dec 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>grand-theft-auto-ivgta4gtaivlost-and-damnedrockstarrockstar-gamesx3f-twitterMon, 15 Dec 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Presenting the GTAIV key to Liberty City]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/13/presenting-the-gtaiv-key-to-liberty-city/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/13/presenting-the-gtaiv-key-to-liberty-city/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/13/presenting-the-gtaiv-key-to-liberty-city/#commentsFiled under: ,


Way back when Grand Theft Auto IV launched in April, Rockstar hosted a contest to award keys to the city to the most dedicated players, specifically those who could reach a 100% completion rating. It looks like Rockstar is finally shipping out those fabulous keys, and X3F tipster Joe F. was kind enough to send us pictures of his personal key to Liberty City. Check out the gallery below and covet what you cannot have (unless you managed to snag one yourself, of course).

JoystiqPresenting the GTAIV key to Liberty City originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 Nov 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>grand-theft-autogrand-theft-auto-4grand-theft-auto-ivgta4gtaivrockstartake-twoThu, 13 Nov 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GTA IV hijacks top spot in Japan sales chart]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/05/gtaiv-hijacks-top-spot-in-japan-sales-chart/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/05/gtaiv-hijacks-top-spot-in-japan-sales-chart/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/05/gtaiv-hijacks-top-spot-in-japan-sales-chart/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

From Capcom designer Yokshiki Okamoto: "Rockstar is not unsuccessful in Japan, but their success here is on a much smaller scale than elsewhere in the world market. The low Japanese sales of the sandbox-style GTA series simply do not make any sense to me."

Well, it looks like that trend has stumbled into a dark alley and been bludgeoned to death. According to Famitsu's weekly charts, Grand Theft Auto IV for PlayStation 3 has claimed the top spot in software sales in its debut week. The Xbox 360 version took the 4th spot. Valkyrie Profile: The Accused One and LittleBigPlanet (PS3) took 2nd and third place, respectively. Exact numbers haven't been released yet. Full top ten list after the break.

[Via PS3 Fanboy]

Continue reading GTA IV hijacks top spot in Japan sales chart

JoystiqGTA IV hijacks top spot in Japan sales chart originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Nov 2008 19:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSgrand-theft-autogrand-theft-auto-ivgtagta4gtaivjapanjapanese-salesjapanese-software-salesPS3WiiXbox-360Wed, 05 Nov 2008 19:49:00 EST<![CDATA[GTA IV multiplayer hit by viral zombie outbreak]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/23/gta-iv-multiplayer-hit-by-viral-zombie-outbreak/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/23/gta-iv-multiplayer-hit-by-viral-zombie-outbreak/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/23/gta-iv-multiplayer-hit-by-viral-zombie-outbreak/#commentsFiled under: , ,

gta iv
Today's earlier rumor about a viral outbreak in Grand Theft Auto IV has borne fruit - icky, decaying, zombie fruit. It turns out that the zombie apocalypse has come to Liberty City, but not in the form of DLC. It's a tweak that's been made to the game's multiplayer modes just in time for Halloween.

According to a news update on the Rockstar Social Club site, a virus introduced into the game world turns players into zombies (or at least bestows them with the zombie skin) and "can be contracted in any and all multiplayer modes and is spread when an unsuspecting player kills someone who has the infection." The post also mentions that signs of infection include gaining access to the zombie skin in multiplayer or earning the "Let Sleeping Rockstars Lie" Achievement (on 360).

The Social Club site has been updated with a new community feature that lets registered users check to see if they've been "infected," as well as access US and world maps displaying the spread of the "disease." We've contacted Rockstar on the off chance they're willing to spill some details on how long we'll be riding out this outbreak.

JoystiqGTA IV multiplayer hit by viral zombie outbreak originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Oct 2008 20:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingnewsgrand-theft-autogrand-theft-auto-ivgtagta4gtaivmultiplayerPS3Xbox-360zombiesThu, 23 Oct 2008 20:22:00 EST<![CDATA[NPD: Top 5 best-selling PS3 games from January to August 08]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/23/npd-top-5-best-selling-ps3-games-from-january-to-august-08/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/23/npd-top-5-best-selling-ps3-games-from-january-to-august-08/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/23/npd-top-5-best-selling-ps3-games-from-january-to-august-08/#commentsFiled under:


The NPD, in collaboration with Gamasutra, disclosed the top 5 bestsellers for each platform today, including the PS3. Without further ado, let's take a look at what they are:
  1. Grand Theft Auto IV
  2. Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots
  3. Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare
  4. Madden NFL 09
  5. Gran Turismo 5: Prologue
Note that specific sales numbers were not provided and the final tally does not include any collector's editions, games sold via digital distribution or games bundled with a system.

No one is really surprised that GTA IV, MGS4 and Madden 09 made it to the top of the charts. However, Gamasutra remarks on the tremendous momentum Call of Duty 4 has had so far in 2008, especially considering the game was released early November of 2007. They were also surprised to see Gran Turismo 5: Prologue beating out Devil May Cry 4; they even speculate that if the sales on the PS Store for Gran Turismo 5: Prologue were counted, it might have even trumped the sales of the PS3 version of Madden 09. Did any of these games surprise you guys? Is there a game you would have liked to see on the chart? Fire away in the comments below.

JoystiqNPD: Top 5 best-selling PS3 games from January to August 08 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Sep 2008 17:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>call-of-dutycall-of-duty-4cod-4grand-theft-auto-4grand-theft-auto-ivgta-ivgta4gtaivmadden-09madden09metal-gear-solidmetal-gear-solid-4mgs4nflnfl-09nfl09npdnpd-groupTue, 23 Sep 2008 17:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Grand Theft Auto IV sells ten million copies]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/04/grand-theft-auto-iv-sells-ten-million-copies/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/04/grand-theft-auto-iv-sells-ten-million-copies/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/04/grand-theft-auto-iv-sells-ten-million-copies/#commentsFiled under: ,

As part of its recent quarterly earnings announcement, Take-Two announced that Grand Theft Auto IV has sold ten million copies through Aug. 16. These sales helped lead the company to a staggering $433.8 million in revenue in the third quarter, over twice as much as the same quarter last fiscal year.

For comparison, the PS2 version of GTA: San Andreas sold 12 million copies worldwide. During a conference call, the company said it would continue to promote GTA IV through the holiday season, and that it expected lifetime sales for the game to "track well ahead of any previous GTA title."

JoystiqGrand Theft Auto IV sells ten million copies originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Sep 2008 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>earningsgrand-theft-autogrand-theft-auto-ivgta4GTAivPS3salestake-twoten-millionXbox-360Thu, 04 Sep 2008 16:58:00 EST<![CDATA[GTAIV DLC still on track to release this November]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/04/gtaiv-dlc-still-on-track-to-release-this-november/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/04/gtaiv-dlc-still-on-track-to-release-this-november/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/04/gtaiv-dlc-still-on-track-to-release-this-november/#commentsFiled under: ,

Over the past few months, we've been hearing all kinds of conflicting reports regarding the Xbox 360 exclusive Grand Theft Auto IV downloadable content and its release date. All of which has led us to question whether the DLC will release later this Fall, sometime next Spring or later in 2009.

Thankfully, Eurogamer had a chance to chat with "sources close to Rockstar North" and learned that the DLC is still on track to release sometime this November. Just as Microsoft promised. Sadly, we are still in the dark regarding what will be included in the DLC or its pricing, but seeing that MS reportedly spent $50 million on it, we doubt it'll be cheap. We're starting our own rumor based on our own speculation which is based on absolutely no facts and predict that the GTAIV DLC will end up costing a whopping 1600 Microsoft points. Tell your friends, you heard it here first!

JoystiqGTAIV DLC still on track to release this November originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Sep 2008 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>grand-theft-auto-ivgta4gtaivrockstarrockstar-gamesxblmThu, 04 Sep 2008 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft: Grand Theft Auto IV DLC coming this Autumn]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/microsoft-grand-theft-auto-iv-dlc-coming-this-autumn/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/microsoft-grand-theft-auto-iv-dlc-coming-this-autumn/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/microsoft-grand-theft-auto-iv-dlc-coming-this-autumn/#commentsFiled under: , ,

In the midst of the Leipzig Games Convention, Microsoft has issued a statement (via IGN) about the much-ballyhooed and long-delayed Grand Theft Auto IV downloadable content. Said Microsoft, "In autumn there will be news from Liberty City; the first episodes of GTA IV will be available for download exclusively on Xbox LIVE, underlining Xbox 360's leadership role in the field of digital entertainment."

While we're fairly certain "news from Liberty City" is indicative of an Autumn launch, the "news" could just be a more confirmed release date for later this year. Take-Two previously noted that the DLC is expected in Fiscal Q109 (between November 1, 2008, and January 31, 2009). We've put in a call to Microsoft for clarification, who may or may not be too busy booking tickets to San Andreas. Update: Heard from Microsoft who confirm that the exclusive DLC itself is coming this Fall.

JoystiqMicrosoft: Grand Theft Auto IV DLC coming this Autumn originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>delaydlcgrand-theft-auto-ivgta4gtaivgtaiv-dlcleipzig-08microsoftXbox-360Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:55:00 EST<![CDATA[The voice of GTAIV's Roman is broke, rent him]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/27/the-voice-of-gtaivs-roman-is-broke-rent-him/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/27/the-voice-of-gtaivs-roman-is-broke-rent-him/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/27/the-voice-of-gtaivs-roman-is-broke-rent-him/#commentsFiled under:


Those keeping up on Grand Theft Auto IV (that's all of you, right?) will remember that a few weeks ago Michael Hollick, best known as the voice of Niko Bellic in GTAIV, was covered by the New York Times in an article pointing out that the actor will receive no residuals or royalties of any kind for his performance. It's important to note that he doesn't point the finger at Rockstar but rather the Screen Actors Guild, which does not have specific rules regarding electronic performances.

While Hollick may have landed the New York Times, Jason Zumwalt, the voice of Niko's cousin Roman, has turned to YouTube. Where it could be argued that Hollick's approach to the matter had a certain degree of tact, Zumwalt's approach is a bit ... different. Essentially, he's asking gamers to "Rent Roman." It's all a little hard to explain. Maybe you should just watch the video. Find it after the break (NSFW thanks to some salty language).

Continue reading The voice of GTAIV's Roman is broke, rent him

JoystiqThe voice of GTAIV's Roman is broke, rent him originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 May 2008 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>grand-theft-autogrand-theft-auto-4grand-theft-auto-ivgta4gtaivrockstartake-twoTue, 27 May 2008 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Zero Punctuation visits Liberty City]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/zero-punctuation-visits-liberty-city/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/zero-punctuation-visits-liberty-city/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/zero-punctuation-visits-liberty-city/#commentsFiled under:


Yahtzee's latest Zero Punctuation review this week is none other than everyone's favorite crime simulator, Grand Theft Auto IV. While he (of course) does his best to pick the game's fault apart one by one, Yahtzee still comes across as actually liking the game. Fans of ZP will know that this is high praise indeed (though we imagine it will still spark nasty, hate-filled emails from GTA fanboys). As for the negatives, the review makes note of wonky driving, escort missions, and the constant need to entertain Niko's friends. Beyond such criticisms though, the review deigns to call Grand Theft Auto IV "really good." Find the review embedded after the break.

[Thanks, webster1990]

Continue reading Zero Punctuation visits Liberty City

JoystiqZero Punctuation visits Liberty City originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 May 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>grand-theft-autogrand-theft-auto-4grand-theft-auto-ivgta4gtaivrockstartake-twozero-punctuationWed, 14 May 2008 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[UK GTAIV first week sales: 926,000 copies]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/07/uk-gtaiv-first-week-sales-926-000-copies/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/07/uk-gtaiv-first-week-sales-926-000-copies/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/07/uk-gtaiv-first-week-sales-926-000-copies/#commentsFiled under:


Hey, remember those ridiculously high Grand Theft Auto IV sales estimates Chart-Track provided for the UK? It looks like they weren't ridiculously high enough, as the final numbers have now been released. Sales for the first week of GTAIV availability in the UK reached a whopping 926,000 copies (approximately) with 631,000 being sold on the first day, handily topping the original day one estimate of 609,000. Of the 926,000 copies sold during the first week, 514,000 were for Xbox 360 with the remaining 413,000 going to the Playstation 3.

The game also managed to drive console sales, raising Xbox 360 sales by 125 percent and PS3 sales by 127 percent from the previous week. Perhaps most impressive of all, in its first week of sales GTAIV has already surpassed all but the top three UK titles of 2007 (FIFA 08, Brain Training, and Call of Duty 4). Just to clarify, that's one week sales versus total sales for 2007. One last statistic: GTAIV is now the record holder for one week sales for a multiplatform game in the UK.

Yow.

[Via Joystiq]

Note: You may have noticed that 413,000 and 514,000 don't add up to 926,000. We're guessing that the numbers are the result of rounding one way or another.

JoystiqUK GTAIV first week sales: 926,000 copies originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 May 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessgrand-theft-auto-4grand-theft-auto-ivgtagta4gtaivrockstartake-twoWed, 07 May 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GTAIV carjacks top spot on Xbox Live]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/06/gtaiv-carjacks-top-spot-on-xbox-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/06/gtaiv-carjacks-top-spot-on-xbox-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/06/gtaiv-carjacks-top-spot-on-xbox-live/#commentsFiled under: ,


Well that didn't take long. Major Nelson has posted the most recent Xbox Live activity top ten. As predicted, Grand Theft Auto IV has (appropriately) stolen the top spot from Call of Duty 4. It would be interesting to find out the percentage of players playing multiplayer versus those that are sticking to the single-player campaign. Regardless, given the amount of content there is to discover in GTAIV, it's likely that it will remain at number one for quite some time. The question now is what game has the power to knock it down. The only thing that comes to mind is (Game of the Year 2008) Ninja Gaiden II. As much as we know Ryu could probably take Niko one-on-one, we're not sure his game has the strength to topple GTAIV.

[Thanks, marklar]

JoystiqGTAIV carjacks top spot on Xbox Live originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 May 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>grand-theft-autogrand-theft-auto-4gta4gtaivlive-top-tenrockstartake-twoxbox-liveTue, 06 May 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Explore Liberty City with Google Map application]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/03/explore-liberty-city-with-google-map-application/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/03/explore-liberty-city-with-google-map-application/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/03/explore-liberty-city-with-google-map-application/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Between the comprehensive in-game map, the GPS-imbued minimap, and the TomTom-esque functionality of certain vehicles, we've yet to misplace ourselves within Liberty City's digital boroughs. Still, if you find yourself lost whilst playing Grand Theft Auto IV, we guess this Liberty City map application (mapplication?) using the Google Maps interface would come in handy.

A number of user contributions have already been made to the map, showing the location of hidden items, easter eggs, pigeon locations, stunt jumps, and yes, even hookers, whom we assume were fitted with GPS locaters by trained prostitute handlers before being released back into the wild. It makes for a useful cartographical companion for those with a laptop near their console of choice -- if you don't mind ruining the fun of exploring the nooks and crannies of Rockstar's intricately crafted metropolis for yourself, that is.

JoystiqExplore Liberty City with Google Map application originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 03 May 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>360googlemapsgrand-theft-auto-ivgta-ivgta4gtaivlibertycitymapps3rockstargamesrockstarnorthXbox-360xbox360Sat, 03 May 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[IGN responds to concerns over exclusive GTA IV review]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/02/ign-responds-to-concerns-over-exclusive-gta-iv-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/02/ign-responds-to-concerns-over-exclusive-gta-iv-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/02/ign-responds-to-concerns-over-exclusive-gta-iv-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Earlier this week, Variety's Ben Fritz expressed concern over IGN's exclusive first review of Grand Theft Auto IV, asking rhetorically, "How can we trust a videogame review when the outlet running it has been given a major commercial favor ... from the publisher of the game?" Well, GameDaily Media Coverage Columnist Gus Mastrapa went the extra mile and asked that very question to some people at IGN. And he even got an answer!

"We in no way trade scores for an exclusive," said IGN VP Tal Blevins, adding that publishers have no access to or say in the text of a review before it goes live. That doesn't mean IGN didn't make any concessions to secure the exclusive, though. IGN Xbox editor Hilary Goldstein admitted the site used promotional placement on the site's top feature bar to secure the exclusive. "Our bargaining chip is to basically say, 'I will put it here if you let me have this,'" Goldstein said. Mastrapa likened the practice to an "exclusive cover story" in a game magazine.

As for Variety and Fritz, Goldstein seemed unimpressed with with his journalism bona fides. "Nobody from Variety called us and said, 'Hey, would you like to comment about this?'" he said. "He says in blog post, 'If I had the game right now I would have broken the embargo.' To me that goes against your ethics." Nothing like an I'm-more-ethical-than-thou battle to get your heart racing in the morning.

JoystiqIGN responds to concerns over exclusive GTA IV review originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 May 2008 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Ben-Fritzcontroversyexclusivegta4Hillary-GoldsteinIGNjournalismPS3reviewTal-BlevinsVarietyXbox-360Fri, 02 May 2008 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Greenberg: GTAIV could steal top Live spot]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/01/greenberg-gtaiv-could-steal-top-live-spot/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/01/greenberg-gtaiv-could-steal-top-live-spot/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/01/greenberg-gtaiv-could-steal-top-live-spot/#commentsFiled under:


Is it all that surprising? Xbox 360 director of product management (and all around snappy dresser) Aaron Greenberg told Reuters that it wouldn't be surprising to see Grand Theft Auto IV snag the top position on Xbox Live. While most Xbox Live gamers know that shooters like Call of Duty 4 and Halo 3 are generally the major competitors for the number one slot on Xbox Live, Greenberg said of GTAIV, "The multiplayer in this game is so well implemented that I can't imagine anyone owning a copy without trying to play it on Xbox Live." Greenberg is probably right about that. After all, he forecasts (correctly, we'd guess) that GTAIV will be the highest selling game of 2008, so there will certainly be plenty of players ready to go online. The question is whether or not players will continue to play once they've given multiplayer a try.

Will GTAIV take the top spot? We're going to go out on a limb and say yes. Will it stay? We'll have to wait and see.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqGreenberg: GTAIV could steal top Live spot originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 01 May 2008 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>grand-theft-autogrand-theft-auto-4grand-theft-auto-ivgta4gtaivrockstartake-twoThu, 01 May 2008 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Behold: the GTAIV Special Edition unboxing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/30/behold-the-gtaiv-special-edition-unboxing/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/30/behold-the-gtaiv-special-edition-unboxing/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/30/behold-the-gtaiv-special-edition-unboxing/#commentsFiled under:


We realize that many, many Grand Theft Auto fans have already perused the contents of their shiny, new Special Editions of Grand Theft Auto IV -- which includes an actual safety deposit box, among other things -- but there are also plenty of gamers out there who opted to grab the vanilla edition instead. It is with this in mind that we point you to 360Sync's unboxing of the Grand Theft Auto IV Special Edition (it's the Canadian version -- note the "Édition spéciale"). Grab your smoking jacket, pour the Courvoisier, and savor the images.

JoystiqBehold: the GTAIV Special Edition unboxing originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>grand-theft-autogrand-theft-auto-4grand-theft-auto-ivgta4gtaivrockstartake-twoWed, 30 Apr 2008 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq Network poll: GTAIV causing problems?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/30/joystiq-network-poll-gtaiv-causing-problems/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/30/joystiq-network-poll-gtaiv-causing-problems/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/30/joystiq-network-poll-gtaiv-causing-problems/#commentsFiled under: ,


Amidst reports that Grand Theft Auto IV is causing problems for owners of both the 360 and PS3 version, we'd like to poll our community on the subject. Most reports claim that the game freezes, forcing players to restart the game (reports also suggest that models other than the 60GB PS3 are not affected). Thus far, only one X3F blogger (me) has encountered any issues. When attempting to retry a mission, said blogger was greeted with an unending loading screen and forced to shut off the console.

We've set up a network wide poll that will be shared among Joystiq, PS3 Fanboy, and Xbox 360 Fanboy to get an idea of how widespread the problem is. Let us know if you've had any issues and don't forget to detail your problems in the comments.

Are you having problems with Grand Theft Auto IV?
Yes, and I use the Xbox 360
Yes, and I use the 60GB PS3
Yes, and I use the non-60GB PS3 (please specify in comments)
No problem (Xbox 360)
No problem (60GB PS3)
No problem (non-60GB PS3; please specify in comments)
Don't own the game, I just felt compelled to click something

JoystiqJoystiq Network poll: GTAIV causing problems? originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>grand-theft-autogrand-theft-auto-4grand-theft-auto-ivgta4gtaivrockstartake-twoWed, 30 Apr 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GTAIV broke UK sales record says Chart-Track]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/30/gtaiv-broke-uk-sales-record-says-chart-track/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/30/gtaiv-broke-uk-sales-record-says-chart-track/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/30/gtaiv-broke-uk-sales-record-says-chart-track/#commentsFiled under:


According to Chart-Track (as reported by gamesindustry.biz), Grand Theft Auto IV has handily shattered UK game sales records in several categories. First of all, the game broke overall first day sales records, with a whopping 609,000 copies sold. This tops the previous record held by Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, which sold 501,000 on its first day in 2004. Regarding specific consoles, GTAIV's first day sales reached 335,000 units on Xbox 360, breaking the previous record of 266,000 units held by Halo 3. First day sales on PS3 hit 274,000, trouncing the previous record of 80,000 units held by Gran Turismo 5: Prologue. For the moment, the figures remain estimates and they may change once Chart-Track combs through the numbers on May 6. Expect official numbers then.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqGTAIV broke UK sales record says Chart-Track originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessgrand-theft-autogrand-theft-auto-4grand-theft-auto-ivgta4gtaivrockstartake-twoWed, 30 Apr 2008 16:00:00 EST