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[Joystiq's Wii U news roundup]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/14/joystiqs-wii-u-news-roundup/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/14/joystiqs-wii-u-news-roundup/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/14/joystiqs-wii-u-news-roundup/#comments Wii U roundupYesterday, Nintendo dropped a lot of information about its upcoming console, the Wii U. Did you have, like, work or something that kept you from refreshing Joystiq and the three simultaneous video streams yesterday? Don't worry! We've rounded up everything we know, so you can be an informed consumer, ready for Bayonetta 2.

Oh yeah, Bayonetta 2 was one of the announcements yesterday. Surprise! Join us after the break for all the info from yesterday's Wii U announcements. We'll update as we learn more.

Gallery: Wii U (Hardware and Accessories)

Continue reading Joystiq's Wii U news roundup

JoystiqJoystiq's Wii U news roundup originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 Sep 2012 13:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>guidenintendowii-uwii-u-guideFri, 14 Sep 2012 13:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Touring the Louvre with a 3DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/touring-the-louvre-with-a-3ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/touring-the-louvre-with-a-3ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/touring-the-louvre-with-a-3ds/#comments Image
The Nintendo 3DS debuted in its latest occupation last week, as tour guide at the biggest and best museum in the world, Paris' legendary Musée du Louvre. I just happened to be in the neighborhood this week while on a month-long trek across Europe, so I paid my 5 € along with the 10 € museum admission for the audio guide, and was handed a Korean Air-branded black 3DS and a pair of headphones on the way to go see some of the world's finest art.

The 3DS isn't the only portable device in use as a museum tour guide. While visiting the Musée d'Orsay last week, I was handed an iPod touch in a special security case, and walked around among the works of French impressionists while using Apple's device to hear insights in English. And I've used quite a few other audio guides on this trip - in London, Westminster Abbey and the Royal Observatory both used custom-made audio guide systems, with a keypad and a play button to choose certain audio tracks for various sights on the tour.

But the 3DS was definitely the only gaming-specific device I've seen in use so far. And because of all of the various technologies included, specifically the wireless features, it actually did a great job.

Gallery: 3DS Louvre Audioguide

Continue reading Touring the Louvre with a 3DS

JoystiqTouring the Louvre with a 3DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsartcommentaryexploreguideinsightkorean-airlouvremuseumnintendonintendo-3dsparisparis-franceThu, 19 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Joystiq Joystick, chapter 1: Parts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/the-joystiq-joystick-chapter-1-parts-is-parts/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/the-joystiq-joystick-chapter-1-parts-is-parts/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/the-joystiq-joystick-chapter-1-parts-is-parts/#comments
You see that video up there? That was taken at Arcade UFO in Austin, TX, during its 2011 fall Ranking Battle tournament series. The fight was between me and the arcade's owner, Ryan Harvey, and took place on a custom built Mortal Kombat arcade cabinet, one of the few in existence at the time. I'm the guy playing Kitana, and if you watch the whole thing, you'll see that I'm also the guy who loses.

That's all right though, because I should have lost that fight. Fubarduck (as Ryan is known in the fighting game community) is an exceptional fighting-game player, as his multiple Top-8 finishes at EVO will attest, and his combo execution was far more solid than what I was laying down with Kitana. Ryan had won, I had learned something about fighting Johnny Cage, and we all moved on. Right?

Well, in a perfect world yes, but unfortunately we live in a world where this fight is available on YouTube. By now I've watched it dozens of times, and at this point I can pinpoint every single mistake I made over the course of those matches. Most of them were strategic mistakes, granted, but there were also execution errors: Because the arcade parts Ryan uses in his cabinets are far superior to the parts in the $35 fight stick I practice with at home, I was at a disadvantage.

High quality joysticks and buttons are light, accurate and require very little manual force to move. Cheaply made parts, on the other hand, are stiff and less responsive, and as such require a lot more effort. My hands, being acclimated to a sub-standard stick, were expecting to work a lot harder than they needed to. I was forward-jumping instead of dashing, doing directional normals instead of neutral normals ... The whole fight was a mess, looking back.

It was a good fight, though, because it made me realize how important it is to own a proper fight stick once you get serious about competitive fighting games. After all, a craftsman's tools are as important as the skill he has acquired, as far as the final result is concerned. To that end, I'm going to build my own, custom fight stick, and you're coming along for the ride.

Continue reading The Joystiq Joystick, chapter 1: Parts

JoystiqThe Joystiq Joystick, chapter 1: Parts originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Jan 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcade-stickfight-stickfightstickguideHapphow-tojoystickjoystiq-joystickmicrosoftplaystationps3sanwaSeimitsuthe-joystiq-joystickxboxTue, 10 Jan 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[2011 Holiday Buyers Guide: PlayStation Network]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/2011-holiday-buyers-guide-playstation-network/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/2011-holiday-buyers-guide-playstation-network/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/2011-holiday-buyers-guide-playstation-network/#comments Did you ravenously unwrap a gift this holiday season, only to discover a redeemable PSN card within? Don't despair -- that card can actually be turned into video games!

We've got a bunch of suggestions on which 2011 video games you should transmogrify your e-money into after the jump. Whether you're using a PS3 or PSP, we've got you covered.

Continue reading 2011 Holiday Buyers Guide: PlayStation Network

Joystiq2011 Holiday Buyers Guide: PlayStation Network originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Dec 2011 10:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buyers-guidebuyers-guide-2011guideholidayholiday-2011holiday-shoppingholidaysplaystationplaystation-storeps3psnpspshoppingsonyThu, 08 Dec 2011 10:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3's Hardened Edition, unboxed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/08/call-of-duty-modern-warfare-3s-hardened-edition-unboxed/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/08/call-of-duty-modern-warfare-3s-hardened-edition-unboxed/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/08/call-of-duty-modern-warfare-3s-hardened-edition-unboxed/#comments
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 is finally out and available in stores, and if you're considering picking up the Hardened Edition (available in most places for $99.99, a mere $40 more than the standard edition), boy do we have a gallery for you to browse through. Below, you can see exactly what's in that box, including a collectible case, a "Limited Edition Field Journal" featuring sketches and materials associated with the game and its story, and the special card and manual that comes with the free year of Call of Duty Elite (and "Founder" status).

Sure, it doesn't have quite as many dragons as Skyrim's Collectors Edition, but that Call of Duty Elite membership will come in handy (not to mention it'll save you the $49.99 that you'd usually pay per year for the service's premium features). Enjoy.

Gallery: Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 Hardened edition unboxing

JoystiqCall of Duty: Modern Warfare 3's Hardened Edition, unboxed originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 Nov 2011 03:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>call-of-duty-elitecall-of-duty-modern-warfare-3galleryguideinfinity-wardmicrosoftmodern-warfare-3picturesxboxTue, 08 Nov 2011 03:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Shoryuken's Marvel vs. Capcom 3 'Hyper Guide' is a good place to start]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/14/shoryuken-marvel-vs-capcom-3-hyper-guide-is-a-good-place-to/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/14/shoryuken-marvel-vs-capcom-3-hyper-guide-is-a-good-place-to/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/14/shoryuken-marvel-vs-capcom-3-hyper-guide-is-a-good-place-to/#comments It's okay -- you don't have to wander into Marvel vs. Capcom 3 without hope or direction. Fighting game site extraordinaire Shoryuken has put together an incredibly comprehensive guide on the new brawler, including videos on basic strategies, tips for playing each character, and super esoteric info on prolonging those sweet, sweet combos.

We suggest starting out with Shoryuken's video series on the basic mechanics of the game. If you have a hard time grokking the execution of Advancing Guards, or the X-Factor Hyper Move Cancel Maneuver, or the Omega Diagonal Pause-Shift Ground Combo Refraction Evasion Technique, you might just have to rely on good ol' button-mashing.

(Yes, we made that last one up.)

JoystiqShoryuken's Marvel vs. Capcom 3 'Hyper Guide' is a good place to start originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Feb 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>guideMarvel-vs-Capcom-3microsoftplaystationps3xboxMon, 14 Feb 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Mario Bros. tricks explained with animated GIFs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/08/super-mario-bros-tricks-explained-with-animated-gifs/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/08/super-mario-bros-tricks-explained-with-animated-gifs/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/08/super-mario-bros-tricks-explained-with-animated-gifs/#comments With the launch of the 25th Anniversary edition of Super Mario All-Stars for Wii drawing near (this Sunday!), you may be seriously tempted to buy all those classic Mario games again for, like -- what? The fourth time? Think again! Not only is the "Limited Edition" Wii game a veritable ROM dump of the SNES All-Stars (which features graphically and musically enhanced versions of the NES games, by 16-bit standards), it's also missing a lot of the great "glitches" from the original games.

TASVideos has assembled a comprehensive guide to the elite tricks and tactics from the original Super Mario Bros. games -- with pictures! Animated pictures. It serves as a stark reminder to us purists why there's really no substitute for the originals, even when said substitute comes in a nifty box.

JoystiqSuper Mario Bros. tricks explained with animated GIFs originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Dec 2010 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cheatsglitchesguidenesnintendostrategysuper-mario-brossuper-mario-bros-2super-mario-bros-3tipstrickswiiWed, 08 Dec 2010 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Call of Duty: Black Ops guide to include 'Nazi Zombie Coverage']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/27/call-of-duty-black-ops-guide-to-include-nazi-zombie-coverage/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/27/call-of-duty-black-ops-guide-to-include-nazi-zombie-coverage/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/27/call-of-duty-black-ops-guide-to-include-nazi-zombie-coverage/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The thing about a Nazi zombie is that it tends not to re-die until it's been utterly obliterated. So, it's totally plausible that the Nazi Zombie scourge continued to pester ill-fortified strongholds long after World War II. Considering Treyarch's commitment to historical entertainment, the developer could definitely get away with reintroducing the evilest undead into the Cold War setting of Call of Duty: Black Ops -- and BradyGames' strategy guide could devote a chapter to surviving the persistent threat.

In fact, product descriptions for the guide on GameStop and Play-Asia highlight "Nazi Zombie Coverage" (in addition to the typical tactical advice; e.g., "Did you know? Aiming down the sights will increase the accuracy of your shot"). Presumably, the Nazi Zombie coverage will detail the "Nazi Zombies" mode in Black Ops, which has yet to be announced by Treyarch.

Nazi Zombies was first hinted at for Black Ops last month by a retail listing. The popular minigame was introduced in World at War and later became a standalone iPhone game. "Zombies in World at War was a huge success and we were blown away by how well the fans received it," Treyarch producer Dan Bunting told us in a May interview.

Update: According to statements made by Treyarch studio head Mark Lamia in the new issue of Edge (via CVG), the developer "continued to evolve [Nazi Zombies] after World At War. There was a dialogue going on with some of our hardcore community, and we were able to interact with the community and evolve -- we did that with our zombie lore." Should we be on the lookout for Soviet Zombies now? Treyarch still isn't saying for sure; though community manager Josh Olin recently tweeted: "If Zombies have anything to do with our top-secret Co-Op mode, then it's a safe bet there will be a trailer for it eventually ..."

JoystiqCall of Duty: Black Ops guide to include 'Nazi Zombie Coverage' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 27 Sep 2010 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActivisionBradyGamesCall-of-Duty-Black-OpsGameStopguidemicrosoftnazi-zombiesnintendopcPlay-Asiaplaystationps3strategy-guideTreyarchwiixboxzombiesMon, 27 Sep 2010 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation Move launch day: All you need to know]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/17/playstation-move-launch-day-all-you-need-to-know/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/17/playstation-move-launch-day-all-you-need-to-know/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/17/playstation-move-launch-day-all-you-need-to-know/#comments It's launch day for the PlayStation Move, which could prove to be ... tricky for gamers.

Listen, we know how it is. Day one of any new technobauble brings a sort of gravitational force pulling you towards your nearest retailer, urging you to succumb to the sweet, sweet siren song of "I have it and you don't." If you think we're not fighting its dulcet tones as we write this, you're sadly mistaken.

But there's every chance you don't need the Move right now and can stave off the inevitable a few more weeks or months. Of course, there's an equal chance you need it right now -- and you had no idea. We don't know you, and we can't make this decision on your behalf.

Luckily, you know you, so we're making it our mission to equip you with all the knowledge you need to either fend off the call of the Move or convince yourself buying it was your idea all along. Once you've digested the info past the jump, hop down to the comments and let us know if you'll be picking one up, or share your first impressions if you've already pulled the trigger.

Continue reading PlayStation Move launch day: All you need to know

JoystiqPlayStation Move launch day: All you need to know originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 Sep 2010 11:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bundlesguidemoveplaystationplaystation-moveps3Fri, 17 Sep 2010 11:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Xbox 360 data transfer and YOU]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/15/video-xbox-360-data-transfer-and-you/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/15/video-xbox-360-data-transfer-and-you/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/15/video-xbox-360-data-transfer-and-you/#comments With the release of the newly redesigned Xbox 360, we're sure more than a few Xbox gamers have been considering an upgrade. With that upgrade comes a very important question: How do you get your data off the old Xbox and onto the new Xbox? To answer this question, we decided to put together a helpful how-to video. The video covers two methods of transfer: USB drives and the official Microsoft data transfer cable.

Of course, this is a very important subject for Xbox owners, so rather than shoot the video ourselves, we farmed it out to a real production studio to give it that professional touch. We think the results speak for themselves.

Continue reading Video: Xbox 360 data transfer and YOU

JoystiqVideo: Xbox 360 data transfer and YOU originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Jul 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bill-BranstonguidemicrosoftxboxXbox-360-ShortXbox-360-SlimThu, 15 Jul 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Black Friday Video Game Deals Hub]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/25/black-friday-video-game-deals-hub/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/25/black-friday-video-game-deals-hub/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/25/black-friday-video-game-deals-hub/#comments .nounderline a { text-decoration: none; }
Update: The 2010 Edition is here!


We wish it didn't have to be like this. But it is. Gorged, bloated and possessed by the lure of unbeatable savings, you will scratch and claw your way through masses of equally frenzied shoppers. There, in the dim light of dawn, you will forsake all that was sacred of the Thanksgiving, and take what's yours -- for an awfully good price. So then, let us be your guide.

We've scoured the Black Friday circulars of nationwide retailers and singled out the video game deals in the guides below. Just click on a retailer to view:



Head past the break for additional tips!

Continue reading Black Friday Video Game Deals Hub

JoystiqBlack Friday Video Game Deals Hub originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonbest-buyblack-fridayblack-friday-2009dealsDSgamestopguideholidazeholidaze-2009kmartMicrosoftNintendosalesearstargettoys-r-usvideo-gameswalmartWiiXbox-360Wed, 25 Nov 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DSi XL FAQ: Sized up]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/30/dsi-xl-faq-sized-up/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/30/dsi-xl-faq-sized-up/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/30/dsi-xl-faq-sized-up/#commentsEarly yesterday, Nintendo of Japan announced the DSi XL (DSi LL in Japan), a larger, larger-screened version of the DSi. It's a big system, and kind of a big mystery, given that the only advance notice we had of the thing was a Nikkei blurb two days prior. While we can't answer the big questions, like how long this idea has been in the works, and whether a bigger handheld is a good idea as an alternative to the DS's continual miniaturization, we can round up what we know and can reasonably speculate about the DSi XL -- right after the jump.

Gallery: DSi XL

Continue reading DSi XL FAQ: Sized up

JoystiqDSi XL FAQ: Sized up originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 Oct 2009 09:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoriesbatterycolorscomparisoncompatibilityDSdsi-lldsi-xlfaqguideNintendonintendo-dsiscreenssizesoftwarespecsFri, 30 Oct 2009 09:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo 3: ODST miniFAQ]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/22/halo-3-odst-minifaq/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/22/halo-3-odst-minifaq/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/22/halo-3-odst-minifaq/#comments .nounderline a { text-decoration: none; }
Whether you're preparing to drop right in or are wavering outside the enlistment office, this is your basic field guide to Halo 3: ODST.

Jump to a specific answer by clicking on a question below, or view the entire FAQ after the break:
WARNING: FAQ contains spoilers pertaining to names and descriptive elements of Campaign and Firefight missions, Achievements, and certain hidden/unlockable content.

Continue reading Halo 3: ODST miniFAQ

JoystiqHalo 3: ODST miniFAQ originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 Sep 2009 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-Industriesachievementsaudio-logsBungieBungie-Studiosco-opfaqfirefightFPSguidehalohalo-3halo-3-multiplayerhalo-3-mythichalo-3-odsthard-driveinstallinstallationMicrosoftMicrosoft-Game-Studiosminifaqmultiplayerodstrecon-armorskullssplit-screensystem-linkvidmaster-challengesXbox-360xbox-liveTue, 22 Sep 2009 14:57:00 EST<![CDATA[The best of WoW.com: July 28 - August 4, 2009]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/05/the-best-of-wow-com-july-28-august-4-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/05/the-best-of-wow-com-july-28-august-4-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/05/the-best-of-wow-com-july-28-august-4-2009/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


It's Patch Day in the World of Warcraft, and if you've never actually played the game, then we'll tell you: it's a lot like Christmas, except it comes a few times a year. A huge patch of free content has been added into the game, and WoW.com is your HQ for all the information you need about all the new instances, items, and features. Check out our most popular posts below, and if you are a WoW player... then what are you doing here? Go see the Argent Tournament! It's out!

News

Features

JoystiqThe best of WoW.com: July 28 - August 4, 2009 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Aug 2009 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>argent-tournamentbest-ofcall-of-the-crusadecolumnscrusaders-coliseumdrama-mamasfeaturesfriday-night-ginfunnyguidehumornewspatch-3.2patch-dayPCreleaseroundupworld-of-warcraftworld-of-warcraftswow-chinawow-comWed, 05 Aug 2009 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The best of WoW.com: July 21-28, 2009]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/29/the-best-of-wow-com-july-21-28-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/29/the-best-of-wow-com-july-21-28-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/29/the-best-of-wow-com-july-21-28-2009/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Yes, Virginia, there's going to be a WoW movie. And no one's more excited than the folks over at WoW.com, Joystiq's sister site and your home for all things found in Azeroth. Here's our 10 most popular post from the past week, including some news from both Sam Raimi and the awesome Bruce Campbell about the movie we now can't wait to see.

News

Features

JoystiqThe best of WoW.com: July 21-28, 2009 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Jul 2009 03:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bruce-campbellchris-metzencomic-concomic-con-2009guidelevelingmetzenmy-lich-king-ponypatch-3.2patch-3.2-wowsam-raimiwarcraftworld-of-warcraftwow-comwow-moviewow-patch-3.2Wed, 29 Jul 2009 03:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The best of WoW Insider: Special patch 3.1 edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/16/the-best-of-wow-insider-special-patch-3-1-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/16/the-best-of-wow-insider-special-patch-3-1-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/16/the-best-of-wow-insider-special-patch-3-1-edition/#commentsFiled under: , ,


The day World of Warcraft fans have been waiting for has finally come: Patch 3.1 is out today. There's new content, a new raid, a brand new dual spec system (for the first time, we'll be able to switch between character specs on a whim, with minimal costs), and tons of class changes, UI updates, and secrets to find. It's a whole new game! Wondering what's new in the patch? Check the links below for everything you need to know.

JoystiqThe best of WoW Insider: Special patch 3.1 edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Apr 2009 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>argent-tournamentclass-changescontentdual-specgalleriesguidepicturesreleasespecial-editionsystemulduarworld-of-warcraftwowwow-insiderwow-patch-3.1Thu, 16 Apr 2009 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Guardian: Ken, Ryu great for SF IV beginners]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/21/the-guardian-ken-ryu-great-for-sf-iv-beginners/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/21/the-guardian-ken-ryu-great-for-sf-iv-beginners/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/21/the-guardian-ken-ryu-great-for-sf-iv-beginners/#comments
Trouble telling your Tiger Knee from a Sonic Boom? Now UK newspaper The Guardian, along with Capcom's Anil Das-Gupta have stepped up with some friendly advice to help transform your hadou-can't into a Hadouken.

For starters, beginners are advised to turn a blind eye to the bulk of the Street Fighter IV's roster of brawlers, instead sticking with the game's vanilla duo of Ken and Ryu as they "both offer a full range of moves and styles while the other fighters merely exaggerate specific elements." Anil also notes that despite their similarities, there are even some fundamental differences between the pair, explaining that "Ryu has always been better at ranged attacks while Ken is better up close."

Funny, we always thought that Ryu was the smarter one while Ken was better with the ladies. Anyway, take a read, and hopefully some of these pointers can help sharpen your street fighting know-how. Anything to keep from the unsightly embarrassment that comes from mistaking a friendly Yoga Noogie for a crispy Yoga Flame.

JoystiqThe Guardian: Ken, Ryu great for SF IV beginners originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 21 Feb 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomfightingguidestreet-fighterstreet-fighter-4street-fighter-ivSat, 21 Feb 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Trophy Guide: Warhawk]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/24/trophy-guide-warhawk/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/24/trophy-guide-warhawk/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/24/trophy-guide-warhawk/#commentsFiled under:

Read more 'Warhawk' stories

A majority of the Trophies in Warhawk simply involve playing the game for a long time. As you level up, you'll unlock the in-game medals which will in turn unlock Trophies. If you want an easy time getting all the Trophies, grab a second player to help you out. It's cheating, yes. But sometimes you gotta do ... what you gotta do.

View Trophy Guide | View Trophy List | Visit Trophy Portal

Continue reading Trophy Guide: Warhawk

JoystiqTrophy Guide: Warhawk originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 24 Nov 2008 12:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>guidetrophiestrophywarhawkMon, 24 Nov 2008 12:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Trophy Guide: LittleBigPlanet]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/06/trophy-guide-littlebigplanet/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/06/trophy-guide-littlebigplanet/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/06/trophy-guide-littlebigplanet/#commentsFiled under:


Read more 'LittleBigPlanet' stories

LittleBigPlanet is probably the biggest exclusive title to see release on the PS3 this fall season. With 48 Trophies to collect, it's sure to keep Trophy hunter preoccupied for quite awhile. Not too long, however, as this Trophy guide will help out with some of the dirty work.

View Trophy Guide | View Trophy List | Visit Trophy Portal

Continue reading Trophy Guide: LittleBigPlanet

JoystiqTrophy Guide: LittleBigPlanet originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>guidejoystiqfeatureslittlebigplanettrophiesThu, 06 Nov 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Trophy Guide: Geon]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/24/trophy-guide-geon/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/24/trophy-guide-geon/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/24/trophy-guide-geon/#commentsFiled under:


Read more 'Geon' stories

A fairly easy set of Trophies for you to tackle in this PSN downloadable. The best way to get 100% would be to get a friend to jump online with you.

View Trophy Guide | View Trophy List | Visit Trophy Portal

Continue reading Trophy Guide: Geon

JoystiqTrophy Guide: Geon originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Oct 2008 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>geongeon-emotionsguidetrophiestrophytrophy-guideFri, 24 Oct 2008 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Trophy Guide: Linger in Shadows]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/22/trophy-guide-linger-in-shadows/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/22/trophy-guide-linger-in-shadows/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/22/trophy-guide-linger-in-shadows/#commentsFiled under:


Read more 'Linger in Shadows' stories

Trophy Whores have been waiting for a game like this. You can unlock all the Trophies from this title in less than an hour. However, rushing through will take away from the experience of this somewhat interactive piece of digital art.

View Trophy Guide | View Trophy List | Visit Trophy Portal

Continue reading Trophy Guide: Linger in Shadows

JoystiqTrophy Guide: Linger in Shadows originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Oct 2008 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>guidejoystiqfeatureslinger-in-shadowstrophytrophy-guideWed, 22 Oct 2008 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Trophy Guide: NOVASTRIKE]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/21/trophy-guide-novastrike/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/21/trophy-guide-novastrike/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/21/trophy-guide-novastrike/#commentsFiled under:


Read more 'Novastrike' stories
This marks the beginning of a whole slew of new Trophy Guides (we hope). PSN user Kenji-san somehow mastered the difficult waters of NOVASTRIKE to write our first user-generated Guide. He'll be getting a PSN Card. Watch the Trophy Portal for more opportunities in the future!

Continue reading Trophy Guide: NOVASTRIKE

JoystiqTrophy Guide: NOVASTRIKE originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Oct 2008 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>guidejoystiqfeaturesnovastriketrophyTue, 21 Oct 2008 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Quick guide for running Neo Geo games on your DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/06/quick-guide-for-running-neo-geo-games-on-your-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/06/quick-guide-for-running-neo-geo-games-on-your-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/06/quick-guide-for-running-neo-geo-games-on-your-ds/#commentsFiled under:



If you've often daydreamed of running Neo Geo games on your DS, but never thought it'd actually happen because of your technical incompetence, unfounded fears, or bad credit, Racketboy will make your dreams come true with a homebrew guide for loading up NeoDS and playing these expensive arcade releases.

Though the process is a bit more complicated than emulating (non-pirated) games for other systems on the DS, this walkthrough breaks down all the required steps for getting started. Jump past the post break for a video preview of Fatal Fury: Mark of the Wolves, King of Fighters 2003, and Metal Slug X will look like on your portable once you get NeoDS running.

Continue reading Quick guide for running Neo Geo games on your DS

JoystiqQuick guide for running Neo Geo games on your DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 06 Sep 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>guideneo-geoneodssnkSat, 06 Sep 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The official Braid walkthrough says, 'Please do not use a walkthrough']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/07/the-official-braid-walkthrough-says-please-do-not-use-a-walkth/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/07/the-official-braid-walkthrough-says-please-do-not-use-a-walkth/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/07/the-official-braid-walkthrough-says-please-do-not-use-a-walkth/#commentsFiled under:

If Braid is causing you some trouble this week, let us direct to you designer Jonathan Blow's official walkthrough for the newly-minted Xbox Live Arcade title. Sort of. Let us explain... No, there is too much. Let us sum up. In a nutshell, Blow's advice is to "deal with it."

According to the guide, "Some of the puzzles will be hard. But when you manage to solve those hard puzzles, you will feel very good about it. [emphasis theirs] The game will feel very rewarding. Don't rob yourself of that feeling by reading a walkthrough!" While we agree with the sentiment, for irony's sake, our fingers are crossed that Braid will hit Top 10 Wanted FAQs on GameFAQs.

Gallery: Braid

JoystiqThe official Braid walkthrough says, 'Please do not use a walkthrough' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Aug 2008 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>braidguidejonathan-blowwalkthroughxblaXbox-360xbox-live-arcadeThu, 07 Aug 2008 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video tutorial teaches you how to play Warhawk]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/30/video-tutorial-teaches-you-how-to-play-warhawk/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/30/video-tutorial-teaches-you-how-to-play-warhawk/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/30/video-tutorial-teaches-you-how-to-play-warhawk/#commentsFiled under:

With Warhawk now available for $30 at retail and on PSN, there's bound to be a slew of new players entering the game. Thankfully, Brady Games and the PlayStation.Blog have teamed up to create this beginner's tutorial video, showcasing all the tricks and tips any n00b will need to know. This video will help players get a grasp on flying, and will give a few hints on how to survive on the incredibly competitive Warhawk battlegrounds. Perhaps these tips will come in handy if you're trying to unlock all of Warhawk's Trophies ... whenever they come.

JoystiqVideo tutorial teaches you how to play Warhawk originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 Jul 2008 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>guidetutorialwarhawkWed, 30 Jul 2008 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E308: Your guide to the Nintendo conference]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/e308-your-guide-to-the-nintendo-conference/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/e308-your-guide-to-the-nintendo-conference/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/e308-your-guide-to-the-nintendo-conference/#commentsFiled under:


All you really need to know about this morning's Nintendo press briefing is that Joystiq is liveblogging it, and we're live-chatting it, but if you're dying for the kind of information you can put into a list about the big show, we've got everything you need.

Event location
Kodak Theatre
Hollywood, California

Starting time
9:00 AM PT (Tuesday, July 15)

Live streams (free)

Songs to get you pumped up
Don't forget your bingo card!

JoystiqE308: Your guide to the Nintendo conference originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Jul 2008 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conferencee3-2008e308guideTue, 15 Jul 2008 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[E308: Your guide to the Nintendo conference]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/e308-your-guide-to-the-nintendo-conference/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/e308-your-guide-to-the-nintendo-conference/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/e308-your-guide-to-the-nintendo-conference/#commentsFiled under:


All you really need to know about this morning's Nintendo press briefing is that Joystiq is liveblogging it, and we're live-chatting it, but if you're dying for the kind of information you can put into a list about the big show, we've got everything you need.

Event location
Kodak Theatre
Hollywood, California

Starting time
9:00 AM PT (Tuesday, July 15)

Live streams (free)
Songs to get you pumped up
Don't forget your bingo card!

JoystiqE308: Your guide to the Nintendo conference originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Jul 2008 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conferencee3-2008e308guideTue, 15 Jul 2008 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 Fanboy's guide to Super Stardust HD Trophies]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/ps3-fanboys-guide-to-super-stardust-hd-trophies/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/ps3-fanboys-guide-to-super-stardust-hd-trophies/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/ps3-fanboys-guide-to-super-stardust-hd-trophies/#commentsFiled under: ,

If you were lucky (or unlucky) enough to install PS3 firmware 2.40 before it was yanked by Sony, you'll definitely want to check out PS3 Fanboy's first-ever PlayStation Trophy guide. It's only fitting that their guide is for the first-ever Trophy-enabled game, Super Stardust HD. Be the first person on your friends list to unlock 'em all - check it out!

JoystiqPS3 Fanboy's guide to Super Stardust HD Trophies originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Jul 2008 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>guideplaystation-trophiesPS3psnsuper-stardust-hdtrophiesWed, 02 Jul 2008 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Trophy Guide: Super Stardust HD]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/trophy-guide-super-stardust-hd/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/trophy-guide-super-stardust-hd/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/trophy-guide-super-stardust-hd/#commentsFiled under: ,


We finally unlocked all the Trophies for Super Stardust HD. As the first game available with Trophy support, many are jumping online to boost their PlayStation level. With 9 Bronze, 6 Silver and 2 Gold Trophies, we're sure this is going to keep many occupied for quite some time. Here's our guide to unlock all the Trophies. Good luck!

Hero of Lave - Complete planet Lave
Bronze | Difficulty: Very Easy
All Arcade mode Trophies can be earned in Easy mode. We recommend that you play on that difficulty to make it easier to get the Trophies you want. For this Trophy, simply beat the first level. Having trouble with the boss? Make sure you focus on only one weak point at a time. You should be able to destroy one weak point before he does his spin attack. His spin will vacuum space debris, so you may want to keep your distance in the early parts of this battle. The Trophy will unlock once you start the next level.

Continue reading Trophy Guide: Super Stardust HD

JoystiqTrophy Guide: Super Stardust HD originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Jul 2008 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>guidejoystiqfeaturessuper-stardust-hdtrophiestrophy-guideWed, 02 Jul 2008 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Daily: Who's been converted?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/28/ds-daily-whos-been-converted/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/28/ds-daily-whos-been-converted/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/28/ds-daily-whos-been-converted/#commentsFiled under: ,


Our most evil and dark attempt to introduce you to the disgusting world of legal homebrew has concluded. Now that the dust has settled, we want to know how many of you actually managed to give something a try? Did you rush out and start downloading like crazy? Perhaps turned your DS into a PDA?

All of you who've now decided to take the plunge, what are you enjoying? For those of you that didn't, why? What's keeping you from the wide world of possibilities that come from the DS homebrew scene? We overcame our fears, you should at least try to overcome your own!

JoystiqDS Daily: Who's been converted? originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 May 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best-homebrew-gamesds-homebrew-how-toemulationglossaryguidehb08nintendo-ds-homebrewpdaWed, 28 May 2008 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Homebrew week: the recapping]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/24/homebrew-week-the-recapping/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/24/homebrew-week-the-recapping/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/24/homebrew-week-the-recapping/#commentsFiled under: ,


This week, the staff at DS Fanboy dedicated themselves to all things homebrew. If you own a DS and aren't checking out some of these hobbyist applications, you're missing half the fun of the system. Let us help you get started, find the best games and other software, and troubleshoot your problems, and you'll be reproducing Rembrandts* in Colors! in no time.

*provided you actually have some shred of artistic talent

Getting started

DS Fanboy's (semi) ultimate homebrew guide
Covering some of the most common Slot-1 cards that can turn your DS into a lean, mean, homebrew machine.

Homebrew glossary
DLD-what? Slot where? We've got the answers.

Filling up that SD card


 Widen the horizons of the DS
The best apps for making your DS do all the things a handheld was never meant to do.

Japanese homebrew games that will blow your mind
From the wacky to the completely awesome.

Emulating the gaming world on DS
Your favorite old consoles, back in handheld form.

Don't buy these: homebrew recommendations
There are dozens of amazing homebrew apps available, and we've got a small sampling of our favorites.

Homebrew: Using the DS as a PDA
Why carry two things when one will do just fine?

More Naughtiness on the Nintendo DS
All the pornographic puzzles you can fit on a single microSD card.

Checking out the community

Confessions of a Homebrew Virgin
New to this whole deal? You're not the only one.

Homebrew dev dishes on the DS scene
The man behind Laser Hockey DS on the scene, his recommendations, and the lessons Nintendo could stand to learn from homebrew.

Homebrew support group
Got problems? We bet someone has an answer.

JoystiqHomebrew week: the recapping originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 24 May 2008 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best-homebrew-gamesemulationglossaryguidehb08homebrewhow-topdaSat, 24 May 2008 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Fanboy's week of homebrew]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/24/ds-fanboys-week-of-homebrew/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/24/ds-fanboys-week-of-homebrew/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/24/ds-fanboys-week-of-homebrew/#commentsFiled under:


This week, the staff at DS Fanboy dedicated themselves to all things homebrew. If you own a DS and aren't checking out some of these hobbyist applications, you're missing half the fun of the system. Let DS Fanboy help you get started, find the best games and other software, and troubleshoot your problems, and you'll be reproducing Rembrandts* in Colors! in no time.

*provided you actually have some shred of artistic talent

Getting started

DS Fanboy's (semi) ultimate homebrew guide
Covering some of the most common Slot-1 cards that can turn your DS into a lean, mean, homebrew machine.

Homebrew glossary
DLD-what? Slot where? We've got the answers.

Filling up that SD card


 Widen the horizons of the DS
The best apps for making your DS do all the things a handheld was never meant to do.

Japanese homebrew games that will blow your mind
From the wacky to the completely awesome.

Emulating the gaming world on DS
Your favorite old consoles, back in handheld form.

Don't buy these: homebrew recommendations
There are dozens of amazing homebrew apps available, and we've got a small sampling of our favorites.

Homebrew: Using the DS as a PDA
Why carry two things when one will do just fine?

More Naughtiness on the Nintendo DS
All the pornographic puzzles you can fit on a single microSD card.

Checking out the community

Confessions of a Homebrew Virgin
New to this whole deal? You're not the only one.

Homebrew dev dishes on the DS scene
The man behind Laser Hockey DS on the scene, his recommendations, and the lessons Nintendo could stand to learn from homebrew.

Homebrew support group
Got problems? We bet someone has an answer.

JoystiqDS Fanboy's week of homebrew originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 24 May 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best-homebrew-gamesDSemulationglossaryguidehomebrewhow-topdaSat, 24 May 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Homebrew Solution: R4DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/homebrew-solution-r4ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/homebrew-solution-r4ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/homebrew-solution-r4ds/#commentsFiled under: ,

R4DS
Slot-1 (All-in-one)
Also needed: MicroSD card
Price: $35-$50
Find it: Gameryeeeah, Real Hot Stuff, Modchip Store

Probably the most popular storage device cart (or at least the most well-known), the R4 is a safe choice for people new to the homebrew community. It's essentially the same as the M3, and just as easy to set up. Also, it's unlikely that you'll ever have to deal with DLDI patching with an R4.

Just follow our directions below or check out our step-by-step picture guide, and you'll be experiencing homebrew in no time.

So you bought the R4DS -- what now?

The R4DS storage device comes with a USB MicroSD card reader/writer and a protective case to hold your cart. As stated above, though, you'll need a MicroSD card. (Note: The R4 is only compatible with MicroSD cards that are 2GB or less.)

Once you have your card, insert it into the USB MicroSD card reader (be careful!). Then, pop the USB reader into your computer's USB port. When prompted by "AutoPlay," click on "Open folder to view files." (Note: If you're not prompted, make sure that your computer is reading your USB drive properly. If it is, just open the drive manually through your "My Computer" folder. If not, there may be a problem with your USB drive or MicroSD card.)

That's easy enough, but how do I set it up for homebrew?

Just go here to download the most recent kernel and the extract the files onto your computer. In the "English" folder there will be four files to copy/paste onto your MicroSD card:
  • _system_ folder
  • moonshl folder
  • _DS_MENU.DAT
  • _DS_MSHL.NDS
So now that your homebrew is set up, how do you actually do stuff?

Congratulations! You've set up your R4, complete with MoonShell. The rest of what you do simply depends on your own needs and wants. If you want homebrew games, make a "Games" folder and put it in the root directory. If you want music, make a "Music" folder; if you want applications (like iPod DS or PictoDrive), make an "Applications" folder, and so on.

Now, get to the downloading

It's nice that you have all these nifty folders, but it's no fun if they're empty -- so go on and add some programs and multimedia! If you have no idea where to start, check out some of our past recommendations by scanning through our homebrew category.

Be careful to check if what you're downloading has special instructions. Some programs (like DSOrganize, for example) might need to be installed into the root directory. Otherwise, just put your homebrew games into your "Games" folder, music files into your "Music" folder, etc.

So you have the programs you want -- now what?

Remove your USB reader from your computer, take out the MicroSD card carefully, put the MicroSD card into the R4 storage cart, and put the R4 storage cart into your DS. Then, turn on your DS. Once it loads, you'll notice a menu that's split into three different sections: Game, Multimedia, and Boot Slot-2.


"Game" (left icon) is where you go to open all .nds files, such as DSOrganize, iPod DS, emulators, and any homebrew games that you've downloaded. Only folders and .nds files will show up here, so don't worry if everything else appears to be missing. "Multimedia" (middle icon) takes you to MoonShell, where you open multimedia files. "Boot Slot-2" (right icon) is what you'd use if you had a GBA expansion pack or other slot-2 device inserted into your DS.

Where can I go to for more in-depth information on the R4DS?

Still confused? Use our step-by-step picture walkthrough to make setting up your R4DS even easier. If you have other questions, though, your best bet would be to visit community sites like GBATemp.net or the (unofficial) R4DS Support Forums.

Features: Built-in media player (MoonShell), skinnable interface, automatic DLDI patching, Slot-2 expansion support, Wi-Fi compatibility, operable with both the touchscreen and buttons/d-pad, constantly updated firmware (available on the R4DS website)
Possible problems: Not as power efficient as a normal DS cart, some programs must go in the root directory, not compatible with MicroSD cards over 2GB (MicroSDHC cards)
Accessories: USB MicroSD card reader/writer, protective case to store the R4 cart
Language support: English, French, and Korean

Jargon flying right over your head? Check out our homebrew glossary for more information!

M3 Back Other

JoystiqHomebrew Solution: R4DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 May 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>flash-cartflashcartguidehow-tomoonshellr4r4-revolutionr4dsstorage-devicewalkthroughTue, 20 May 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Homebrew solution: CycloDS Evolution]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/homebrew-solution-cyclods-evolution/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/homebrew-solution-cyclods-evolution/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/homebrew-solution-cyclods-evolution/#commentsFiled under: ,

CycloDS Evolution
Slot-1 (All-in-one)
Also needed: MicroSD card
Price: $53
Find it: Real Hot Stuff

Though it's well regarded by many for its high compatibility with commercial ROMs, the CycloDS Evolution is also gaining popularity for the ease with which one can install and load homebrew games and applications using the slot-1 cart. Its capabilities and dead-simple features come at a premium, and you will need to buy a microSD memory card to use with the cart (we suggest 1GB+), but you'll find very few people who're unhappy with the Team Cyclops product.

So you bought the CycloDS Evolution -- what now?

As with the R4, the CycloDS Evolution kit includes a USB microSD card reader/writer which you can plug into your computer. Both the slot-1 cart and the card reader/writer lack spring mechanisms for popping out the microSD cards, so you'll need to pull them out with a fingernail. This isn't as awkward as it sounds!

The first two things you'll want to do is make sure you have the latest firmware and the MoonShell media player. The official CycloDS Support and Downloads page has links to the latest versions for you to download. Unpackage the files and drag everything into the root of your microSD card (do not rename the "moonshl" folder).

The next time you run the CycloDS cart on your DS, you'll receive a prompt asking if you'd like to update the firmware. Make sure your battery light is green -- you might even want to hook the system up to its charger -- and press A to start the process. It's imperative that you do not turn off your system during the update. After the firmware update is complete, you'll need to restart your DS. The firmware upgrade file will be automatically deleted.

That's easy enough, but how do I set it up for homebrew?

Running homebrew off this cart couldn't be any easier. With the CycloDS' automatic DLDI-patching, you should be able to run most games and applications without having to patch the software. Just drag and drop the NDS files you've downloaded, and you're good to go. It's suggested that you organize your files into folders if you plan to keep a lot on your cart, as the cart's file browser will only list 128 ROMs in a single directory. As the folder named "/CycloDS" is a system folder, make sure not to drag any homebrew files that you plan to play into there.



Once you've started up your Nintendo DS, tapped past the Health and Safety screen, and selected "CycloDS Evolution" from the initial menu screen, you'll be greeted with the simple user interface pictured above. In case it's not obvious, the DS icon will bring you to a file browser that will load the software you've copied onto the microSD card. The headphones icon will open the Moonshell media player for any compatible photos/music/text/video files you have. The third icon, a briefcase, will let you configure different settings, including your DS's current LCD brightness.

How do I customize the CycloDS's main menu?

Ever wanted to see your true love, Sasuke, as soon as you turned on your DS? Or maybe you'd just like a sleek menu screen to match your iPhone? Here's your chance to make your system's graphical user interface really feel like yours!
  1. Find and download a skin you like -- try NDS Themes or the skins section of the Team Cyclops' forum
  2. Unzip the skin folder from the file you've downloaded (e.g. LePetitPrince.zip -> "/LePetitPrince")
  3. Open the "/CycloDS" directory in your microSD card
  4. Create a "/Skins" folder in "/CycloDS"
  5. Drag the skin folder you downloaded into the "/Skins" folder (e.g. "/CycloDS/Skins/LePetitPrince")
  6. Slap the microSD card and CycloDS cart into your DS
  7. Load the CycloDS Evolution cart from the DS's initial menu screen
  8. Head into "Settings/Misc" from the CycloDS menu
  9. Select the "Skin" line and hit the A button or use the directional pad to pick your skin
  10. Voila! You've added and enabled a new CycloDS skin!
What about this "Enhanced Mode" I've been hearing about?

The CycloDS has a unique "Enhanced Mode" menu which users can access at any time, even while playing a game, by hitting A + B + X + Y + L + R buttons simultaneously. The menu offers some really slick options, some of which we'd love to see implemented by Nintendo for future versions of the DS -- LCD brightness adjustments, an in-game reset for returning to the CycloDS main menu without restarting the DS, real-time saving for saving/restoring game states at any time, cheat code toggling, variable slow motion, and a display for the current time.

Unfortunately, at the time of this guide's posting, this Enhanced Mode is only available for commercial games and not for homebrew software. If you're the type to crank up Aerosmith and live on the edge, Team Cyclops currently has a public beta for its new firmware (v1.4 Beta 2) adding an in-game reset for homebrew games and applications, allowing you to return to the CycloDS main menu without restarting the DS. It's not as impressive as the full Enhanced Mode, but the soft reset is still very useful!

Why are some people choosing the CycloDS Evolution over the cheaper R4?

While it's onboard firmware, microSDHC support, and Enhanced Mode offerings are all significant advantages for the CycloDS Evolution, the biggest reason why many are happy to pay $10-20 extra for this cart is its excellent, English-speaking (this is a huge deal!) support staff. In addition to providing great technical support and firmware upgrades with new fixes/features, Team Cyclops keeps an active presence in its own forums. You would expect these points to be standard with most flashcart teams, but it's rare to see a group support its cart this well.

Where can I go to for more in-depth information on the CycloDS Evolution?

Try Team Cyclops' CycloDS Evolution Reference Manual or The CycloDS Wiki!

Features: Automatic DLDI-patching with excellent homebrew compatability, media player (Moonshell), user-friendly and skinnable interface, OS built into onboard flash memory, Enhanced Mode, auto-boot and auto-execute options, and microSDHC support
Accessories: EZ-V 3-in-1 Expansion Pack
Language support: English, Japanese, Spanish, Italian, French, German, Portuguese, Latin American Spanish,
Korean, Dutch, Greek, Indonesian, Malaysian, Russian, and Tagalog


Jargon flying right over your head? Check out our homebrew glossary for more information!

plctext
 Back M3 Real

JoystiqHomebrew solution: CycloDS Evolution originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 May 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cyclo-ds-evolutionflash-cartflashcartguidehow-tomoonshellromteam-cyclopsTue, 20 May 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Homebrew solution: M3 Real]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/homebrew-solution-m3-real/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/homebrew-solution-m3-real/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/homebrew-solution-m3-real/#commentsFiled under: ,

M3DS Real
Slot-1 (All-in-one)
Also needed: MicroSD card
Price: $39 - $60
Find it: Real Hot Stuff, Amazon Marketplace, DealExtreme

With the M3 Real, it's easy for even the noobiest of noobs to get a grip on DS homebrew. If you know how to a) manipulate files on a computer and b) insert a cart into your DS, then you too can master the world of DS homebrew. It really is just that easy.

So you bought the M3 Real -- what now?

Once you've got the M3, with or without accessories (other than the necessary MicroSD card), setting it up is extremely simple. Before you do anything else, you'll need to:
  • format your MicroSD card (PC users, see here and here; Mac users, check here)
  • get the latest M3 loader firmware
  • copy the M3 firmware System folder to the MicroSD card
  • insert the MicroSD into your M3 cart (like this, not like this)
  • insert the M3 adapter cart in your DS and power it up
The first time you boot up your M3, you'll be prompted to select your language. If you happen to choose the wrong one, or decide to shift later, you can adjust this in the Setting menu from the main screen (see list of menu options to the right). After that, you're ready to go, and you've already become a part of the homebrew community. The M3 firmware comes complete with a built-in PDA app, so you've already got a program you can use. You've also got MoonShell packed in with your card, which allows you to access media files from your DS, just in case you want to, say, watch Night of the Living Dead. But in order to get that film, other media, or any other programs, you're going to have to plug that MicroSD back in to your computer and go hunting for software.

What kind of homebrew programs do you want to get? Frankly, that's up to you, and we'll provide some resources later that should help you choose. For now, however, we're just going to tell you how to work with your new homebrew cart.

How do I manage files so that my homebrew software will run correctly?

You'll need to place all of the loader files (.nds files) in the root directory (unless directed otherwise in the instructions for various programs) on the MicroSD card. This allows for automatic DLDI patching, which some applications require in order to run correctly. If your files are not in the right place, your programs may not work. If you're having any trouble, make sure the files are in the right place!

Your media files, however, can be organized as you see fit. Only .nds loader files for your homebrew programs need to be in the root directory. MoonShell has its own file browser, and supports several audio formats, including MP3, most basic image formats, and DPG video files.

As an aside, we recommend fiddling with your new M3's menus. You can't really mess anything up, after all, and you'll learn more about it. The firmware comes with several skins already installed (accessible through the 'Setting' menu), and you can cycle through those and familiarize yourself with the menus before digging too deeply into various programs.

To the right, you can see the basic menu options. You'll spend most of your time in "My Card," which is a file browser that lists all your homebrew programs. Open My Card, and from there, you can select the executable files.

For example, on the above screenshot, lj.nds is selected, which loads LOCKJAW, an excellent Tetris clone. Chat Noir is also shown. To get here, select My Card from the main menu, and scroll down to the files you want. Tap the desired file once with your stylus (or alternate pointing device), and again to load it. Or, if you prefer to use the buttons, A selects, and B will move back to previous menus.

Sound simple? It is. The interface is easily navigable, and the beauty of the all-in-one Slot-1 carts is that running homebrew apps is nearly as easy as booting a commercial cartridge. So many steps that were necessary with earlier Slot-2 homebrew solutions are automated here. Now anyone can get in on the homebrew experience.

Where can I go to for more in-depth information on the M3 Real?

Check out the official M3 Team site or the M3 wiki, as well as great community sites like GBATemp.net.

Features: Built-in media player and PDA functionality, HDSC compatible, skinnable interface, automatic DLDI patching, supports Slot-2 expansions
Possible problems: Official site difficult to navigate if you're looking for firmware updates; some people don't like the necessity of keeping things in the root directory
Accessories: GBA expansion, rumble pak
Language support: English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch, Korean, Thai

Jargon flying right over your head? Check out our homebrew glossary for more information!

Gallery: M3 Real

MyCard menuMoonshell menu

CycloDS Evolution
 Back Revolution for DS

JoystiqHomebrew solution: M3 Real originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 May 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>flash-cartflashcartguidehow-tom3-realm3dsmoonshellwalkthroughTue, 20 May 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Cooking Navi finds a home in Europe on June 20th?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/12/cooking-navi-finds-a-home-in-europe-on-june-20th/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/12/cooking-navi-finds-a-home-in-europe-on-june-20th/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/12/cooking-navi-finds-a-home-in-europe-on-june-20th/#commentsFiled under:


All of you hopeful chefs living in Europe, it looks like we may finally have a date for when Cooking Navi is to release in your region. According to a German gaming site, Nintendo-Online, the title is due to hit on June 20th. Some other poking around the net shows that GAME also has a listing for that day.

We'd like to check more on this, but, in all honesty, there's just not much retail competition for GAME. So we can't exactly go looking up other listings for the game. Even Nintendo of Europe's site has nothing on the title, so we're really up the creek without a paddle here. For the time being, we're considering this a rumor, but just wanted to let you all know that you should be taking this "news item" with a grain of salt.

[Thanks, isaac3k!]

JoystiqCooking Navi finds a home in Europe on June 20th? originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 May 2008 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cookebookcooking-guidecooking-naviguiderecipesMon, 12 May 2008 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The VC Advantage: How to win at selling lots of books]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/30/the-vc-advantage-how-to-win-at-selling-lots-of-books/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/30/the-vc-advantage-how-to-win-at-selling-lots-of-books/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/30/the-vc-advantage-how-to-win-at-selling-lots-of-books/#commentsFiled under:

The VC Advantage is usually geared toward nostalgia -- specifically, evoking the memories of a time gone by, when we were denied resources such as GameFAQs, we had to look up codes in magazines, and we had to walk two miles uphill to school (both ways!). Help was available in other places besides magazines back then. Needed to know what to play and how to advance? You could turn to a book ... and we're not talking about glitzy Prima strategy guides packed with glossy photos, either.

Growing up, I didn't have much access to gaming magazines, and I'm not even sure why. I'm sure I was aware that Nintendo Power existed, and I know I read a few issues, but I wasn't a subscriber and rarely bought it (blasphemy!). I did, however, read many of Jeff Rovin's How to Win books cover to cover.

Continue reading The VC Advantage: How to win at selling lots of books

JoystiqThe VC Advantage: How to win at selling lots of books originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bookguidehow-to-win-at-nintendo-gamesjeff-rovinnostalgiastrategyWed, 30 Apr 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Navigating your Japanese copy of Tetris DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/10/navigating-your-japanese-copy-of-tetris-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/10/navigating-your-japanese-copy-of-tetris-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/10/navigating-your-japanese-copy-of-tetris-ds/#commentsFiled under: ,

Tetris DS has become a hard-to-find item, leaving the DS with the distinction of being the only Nintendo handheld (except for the Pokémon Mini stuff) without a ubiquitous Tetris game. And that just feels wrong. The surprising rarity of the Nintendo-nostalgia-themed puzzler has driven prices on eBay way up. In order to clear lines without clearing their bank account, many would-be Tetrists are buying Japanese copies -- including DS Fanboy staffers eager to drop Tetriminoes every Game Night.

It's easy enough to play Tetris DS even without understanding the menus. Just push enough buttons and eventually something will happen. But it's somewhat trickier to engage in multiplayer without being able to read the interface. In order to help anyone stuck in such a situation (and to encourage online Tetris-ing, of course!) we've gone through the menus in a Japanese copy of Tetris DS and translated the screen text.

Click the picture to browse the entire gallery, or you can pick your starting point from the list below. We hope this guide is the I-piece in the prospective Tetris that is your Tetris DS experience!

JoystiqNavigating your Japanese copy of Tetris DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Apr 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>guidejapanesejoystiqfeaturestetrisThu, 10 Apr 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mystery Dungeon solved with Pokemon preorder]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/13/mystery-dungeon-solved-with-pokemon-preorder/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/13/mystery-dungeon-solved-with-pokemon-preorder/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/13/mystery-dungeon-solved-with-pokemon-preorder/#commentsFiled under:


As excited as we always are when it comes to free stuff, we're ten times more thrilled with this excuse to reuse our Unsolved Dungeon Mysteries image. What better way to introduce a paranomal Pokémon preorder?

To promote the April 20th release of Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Explorers of Time and Explorers of Darkness, Nintendo is offering a free strategy book to anyone who reserves either edition of the roguelike. The Explorer's Guide will contain game tips, interviews, and an original manga from Ken Sugimori, likely similar to (if not the same as) Ginji's Rescue Team.

For the uninitiated, the Pokémon Mystery Dungeon games, like Shiren the Wanderer, are all entries in Chunsoft's Fushigi no Dungeon series. Catering to the license's audience, Explorers will be significantly less difficult and punishing than its peers. Having a strategy guide on hand should increase your survivability chances even more! If you're looking to ease yourself into the dungeon-crawl genre, this is the game you'll want to try out.

[Via press release]

JoystiqMystery Dungeon solved with Pokemon preorder originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 Mar 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chunsoftexplorers-of-darknessexplorers-of-timeguidemystery-dungeonNintendopokemonpokemon-mystery-dungeonPokemon-Mystery-Dungeon-Explorers-of-TimepreorderroguelikeThu, 13 Mar 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Toys "R" Us: Quest for a Brawl deal]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/10/toys-r-us-quest-for-a-brawl-deal/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/10/toys-r-us-quest-for-a-brawl-deal/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/10/toys-r-us-quest-for-a-brawl-deal/#commentsFiled under:

Haven't hopped onto the Brawl bandwagon yet? If you're still looking for one more reason to pick up the epic fighter, keep this deal in mind! Starting today until next Sunday, Toys "R" Us will throw in an extra game for half its regular price with every order of Super Smash Bros. Brawl. The list of eligible titles isn't 100% quality, but there are a few that you might be interested in:
  • Bee Movie Game
  • My Sims
  • Mario & Sonic At the Olympic Games
  • Raving Rabbids 2
  • The Spiderwick Chronicles
  • Super Smash Brothers Brawl (Buy two copies!)
  • Super Smash Bros. Brawl Guide (Prima book)
  • Zack & Wiki: Quest for Barbaros' Treasure (only $14.98!)
Now is the time to use up that Super Mario Galaxy gift card you've been saving for a special occasion!

JoystiqToys "R" Us: Quest for a Brawl deal originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Mar 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventurebee-moviecapcomguidemario-and-sonicmy-simsprimaquest-for-barbaros-treasureraving-rabbidssmash-bros-brawlspiderwick-chroniclestoys-r-usMon, 10 Mar 2008 21:00:00 EST