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[320GB hard drive coming to Xbox 360 S models for $130 this month]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/11/320gb-hard-drive-coming-to-xbox-360-s-models-for-130-this-month/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/11/320gb-hard-drive-coming-to-xbox-360-s-models-for-130-this-month/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/11/320gb-hard-drive-coming-to-xbox-360-s-models-for-130-this-month/#comments

Finally, you can stop being jealous of your friends who waited until 2011 to buy a 360. The 320GB hard drive included in the Gears of War 3, Modern Warfare 3 and assorted other bundles will go on sale by itself later this month for $130.

We know what you're thinking. "Joystiq, isn't that roughly 200 percent more than I'd typically pay for a hard drive that size?" That's true, dear reader, but Microsoft's got an ace up its sleeve: The hard drive comes with an Xbox Live download code for Lego Star Wars III: The Clone Wars, a $20 value!*

So now who's getting the great deal, huh? ... What's that? Still not you? You say a better pack-in would be a bottle of heinie lube? Well now that's just vulgar.

*Note, that deal doesn't go for Japan, Saudi Arabia, Slovakia and the UAE, because the Force is illegal there.

Joystiq320GB hard drive coming to Xbox 360 S models for $130 this month originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Oct 2011 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>320gbhard-drivelego-star-wars-3-the-clone-warsmajor-nelsonmicrosoftxboxxbox-360-sTue, 11 Oct 2011 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo: Reach co-op hard drive requirement unresolved, no ETA on fix]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/12/halo-reach-co-op-hard-drive-requirement-unresolved-no-eta-on-f/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/12/halo-reach-co-op-hard-drive-requirement-unresolved-no-eta-on-f/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/12/halo-reach-co-op-hard-drive-requirement-unresolved-no-eta-on-f/#comments Following the launch of Halo: Reach, we reported that the game's co-op functionality requires an Xbox 360 hard drive. This was of particular concern to those who had purchased one of the newly released 4GB Xbox 360 S models. At the time, we were told that the issue was "temporary" and that Microsoft was "working to resolve it."

Repeated attempts to confirm with Microsoft when the situation will be resolved have been met with assurances that the company would let us know when there's an update, though no further details have been provided. It's currently unclear if and when the issue will ever be fixed, so consider this a PSA: If you've been holding off on picking up Reach until this particular shortcoming is addressed, you may want to start shopping for hard drives instead.

JoystiqHalo: Reach co-op hard drive requirement unresolved, no ETA on fix originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BungieBungie-Studiosco-opHalo-Reachhard-driveissuemicrosoftpsaxboxWed, 12 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 S 250GB hard drive available ... right now]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/20/xbox-360-s-250gb-hard-drive-available-right-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/20/xbox-360-s-250gb-hard-drive-available-right-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/20/xbox-360-s-250gb-hard-drive-available-right-now/#commentsFiled under: , ,

If you already want a hard drive for that 4GB Xbox 360 S you bought, you could wait patiently for Microsoft to announce the accessory ... or you could just go to Gamestop and buy one. Reader Iain informs Joystiq that he spotted the 250GB hard drives for the redesigned Xbox in his local store -- and they're also available on GameStop.com right now. (We couldn't find the item being offered by any other retailer yet.)

Of course, the $130 price for the drive completely obliterates any savings you might temporarily enjoy after buying the $200 4GB model (or the upcoming Kinect bundle), but it sure beats a mountain of USB flash drives.

[Thanks, Iain]

JoystiqXbox 360 S 250GB hard drive available ... right now originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Aug 2010 09:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>250gbgamestophard-drivemicrosoftretailxboxxbox-360-sxbox-360-slimFri, 20 Aug 2010 09:54:00 EST<![CDATA[White PS3 Slim, larger hard drives offered in Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/06/white-ps3-slim-larger-hard-drives-offered-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/06/white-ps3-slim-larger-hard-drives-offered-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/06/white-ps3-slim-larger-hard-drives-offered-in-japan/#commentsFiled under: , ,

[GAME Watch]

If you were in the market for a white PS3 Slim, but didn't want one with Lightning all up on it, you're in luck! Sony Japan has just introduced a new "Classic White" system, along with a new white vertical stand and, of course, Classic White DualShock 3 controllers. The new system is outfitted with a 160GB hard drive. The 160GB PS3 will retail for 29,980 ($341).

In addition, Sony is selling the "Charcoal Black" PS3 Slim in a 160GB Torne digital recorder bundle, for ¥36,980 ($421), and a version with a luxurious 320GB hard drive (and no Torne) for ¥34,980 ($398). All of these are going on sale -- in Japan only -- on July 29. The current 120GB PS3 Slim is now going "open price," meaning retailers can drop the price at their discretion.

JoystiqWhite PS3 Slim, larger hard drives offered in Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Jul 2010 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>160GB320GBClassic-WhiteHard-DriveJapanplaystationps3PS3-SlimTorneWhite-PS3White-PS3-SlimTue, 06 Jul 2010 10:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony offers PS3 hard drive upgrade service in Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/28/sony-offers-ps3-hard-drive-upgrade-service-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/28/sony-offers-ps3-hard-drive-upgrade-service-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/28/sony-offers-ps3-hard-drive-upgrade-service-in-japan/#comments
Image: Seagate
Feeling constrained by your PS3's hard drive? Daunted by the task of replacing it yourself? (Seriously. It's pretty easy. Check out these guides: Phat/Slim) Sony is offering a new service in Japan that's perfect for you. For ¥18,000 (~$184), you will be able to ship Sony your PS3 system and get it upgraded with a new 250GB drive. Sony will not only replace the drive, but will also move all supported content from your old drive to the new one. They'll even return your old hard drive as a souvenir.

Considering a 250GB hard drive costs about $50 at retail, this service is being offered at quite a hefty premium. Is this something you'd like to see offered in America and Europe as well?

[Via Andriasang]

JoystiqSony offers PS3 hard drive upgrade service in Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Apr 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hard-drivehddjapanps3ps3-slimsonyWed, 28 Apr 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[120GB Xbox 360 hard drive drops to $99.99]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/23/120gb-xbox-360-hard-drive-drops-to-99-99/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/23/120gb-xbox-360-hard-drive-drops-to-99-99/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/23/120gb-xbox-360-hard-drive-drops-to-99-99/#comments With the new 250GB 360 hard drive moving into the price territory once occupied by the 120GB drive, it should come as no surprise that the old model is getting a price cut. In fact, we're a little surprised it's not getting more of one. Microsoft just told us that the price on the 120GB HDD has been cut to $99.99, effective immediately. Microsoft tells us the drive is available at that price "while supplies last," so it sounds like they may not be on the market all that much longer.

In case you're bad at math, that's $0.83 per gigglebyte on the old model and $0.52 for the new. In case you're bad at Newegg searches, those are both still bad prices.

Joystiq120GB Xbox 360 hard drive drops to $99.99 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Mar 2010 14:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>120gb-hdd250gb-hddhard-drivehddmicrosoftprice-cutXbox-360Tue, 23 Mar 2010 14:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Standalone Xbox 250GB HDD confirmed by Dashboard [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/23/standalone-xbox-360-250gb-hard-drive-confirmed-by-dashboard/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/23/standalone-xbox-360-250gb-hard-drive-confirmed-by-dashboard/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/23/standalone-xbox-360-250gb-hard-drive-confirmed-by-dashboard/#comments While Microsoft may have stated up, down and sidesaddle that the 250GB version of its Xbox 360 HDD would remain exclusive to special console bundles (e.g., Modern Warfare 2 and Splinter Cell: Conviction), it would appear that the particular drive will arrive as a standalone accessory sometime soon. As spotted by eagle-eyed Joystiq reader Rodney in the Spotlight section of the Xbox 360 Dashboard (pictured above), the accessory should be available at "participating retailers" rather soon -- the ad's wording indicates that the HDD might already be on store shelves (as of this writing, Amazon has the product listed without a price).

Though it's odd to see an official reveal through the Xbox Dashboard, we have been hearing rumblings about a standalone version of the 250GB HDD for quite some time -- listings even popped up on retail sites earlier this month bearing ... today's date! We've contacted Microsoft for pricing and release info, but until the West Coast wakes up, we've got this thrilling hi-res gallery of the Dashboard advertisement for you below.

[Update: We've just gotten official word from Microsoft that the 250 GB HDD retails for $129.99 and should be available today.]

Gallery: Xbox 360 Dashboard with 250GB HDD ad


[Thanks Rodney!]

JoystiqStandalone Xbox 250GB HDD confirmed by Dashboard [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Mar 2010 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>250gb250gb-hddaccessoriesdashboardhard-driveMicrosoftXbox-360Tue, 23 Mar 2010 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GameStop lists standalone Xbox 360 250GB hard drive [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/02/gamestop-lists-xbox-360-250gb-hard-drive/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/02/gamestop-lists-xbox-360-250gb-hard-drive/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/02/gamestop-lists-xbox-360-250gb-hard-drive/#comments GameStop has listed a 250 GB Xbox 360 hard drive for sale, priced at $130 and scheduled to release on March 23. When reached for comment, Microsoft declined to make a statement by the time of this posting. Checking with GameStop, the retailer wouldn't confirm the product either, but did tell us that the page featuring the 250GB drive "is not an error."

Microsoft had previously stated, like, only two weeks ago, that it planned to keep the larger drives tied to bundles. Xbox 360 and Xbox Live Product Manager Aaron Greenberg also told us at the time, "We're always evaluating." Clearly.

Update 1: GameStop has removed the listing. Additionally, tipster Matt V. (thanks dude!) reports that, on March 9, Amazon also briefly listed the 250GB drive dated for March 23 -- for only $59.99! Though the likely erroneous offer has since been removed from the online retailer, Matt says his order is still active and that Amazon has emailed him with a new estimated ship date of April 10. The plot thickens ...

Update 2: As of March 22, tipster Matt's order has been canceled by Amazon, but the retailer does suggest that an "alternate" item has been listed.

[Thanks, Patrick]

JoystiqGameStop lists standalone Xbox 360 250GB hard drive [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Mar 2010 18:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>250gbgamestophard-drivehddmicrosoftrelease-dateretailXbox-360xbox-360-arcadeTue, 02 Mar 2010 18:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 120GB HDD discounted in the US too, again 'while supplies last']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/05/xbox-360-120gb-hdd-discounted-in-the-us-too-again-while-suppli/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/05/xbox-360-120gb-hdd-discounted-in-the-us-too-again-while-suppli/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/05/xbox-360-120gb-hdd-discounted-in-the-us-too-again-while-suppli/#comments After discovering that the Xbox 360 120GB hard drive has been discounted in Europe "while supplies last," Joystiq has now learned that the drive has been discounted in the United States as well. When asked if the European discount would make it overseas, a Microsoft representative informed Joystiq that the drive has been reduced to $129.99. Again, the rep noted that the discount will apply "while supplies last," which implies that the 120GB drive won't be around for much longer. When asked directly if the unit was being discontinued, the rep stated only that she couldn't comment.

It would seem that several retailers haven't gotten the memo, as many still list the drive at a $149 price point (the $129 price is listed on GameStop's website, for what it's worth). Of course, the drive can also be found much cheaper than the new $129 price, though readers should be aware that there is a very healthy knock-off hard drive market out there.

While Microsoft won't directly confirm that the 120GB is kaput, all signs are certainly pointing that way. The company has already announced that a 250GB standalone drive will be made available in Japan. With the price cut now effective in Europe and the US "while supplies last," it's likely only a matter of time before Microsoft announces the 250GB drive for other territories.

JoystiqXbox 360 120GB HDD discounted in the US too, again 'while supplies last' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 05 Feb 2010 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>120gb250gbhard-drivemicrosoftperipheralsXbox-360Fri, 05 Feb 2010 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[120GB Xbox 360 HDD discounted in Europe 'while supplies last']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/04/120gb-xbox-360-hdd-discounted-in-europe-while-supplies-last/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/04/120gb-xbox-360-hdd-discounted-in-europe-while-supplies-last/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/04/120gb-xbox-360-hdd-discounted-in-europe-while-supplies-last/#comments According to Eurogamer, Microsoft has announced that the Xbox 360 120GB hard drive has now been discounted to €129.99 ($180) in Europe and £79.99 ($125) in the UK. Curiously, the Microsoft representative appended "while supplies last" to the announcement, implying that the 120GB won't be around for much longer. This news comes on the heels of a standalone 250GB hard drive being announced for Japan. When asked whether that drive would release outside of Japan, Microsoft informed Joystiq that it had nothing to announce at the time.

If the separate 250GB drive did become available elsewhere and the 120GB were discontinued, consumers would have to choose between 60GB and 250GB add-ons. As Microsoft's typical strategy has been to replace the lowest end of its hardware spectrum, it would make more sense to discontinue the 60GB drive instead.

Then again, as we've learned time and again, sometimes that strategy can be typical Microsoft.

Joystiq120GB Xbox 360 HDD discounted in Europe 'while supplies last' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Feb 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>120gb250gb250gb-hddaccessorieseuropehard-drivehddMicrosoftukXbox-360Thu, 04 Feb 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Officially licensed external PS3 HDDs hitting Japan for 'torne']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/02/officially-licensed-external-ps3-hdds-hitting-japan-for-torne/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/02/officially-licensed-external-ps3-hdds-hitting-japan-for-torne/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/02/officially-licensed-external-ps3-hdds-hitting-japan-for-torne/#comments Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. has given its official endorsement to two upcoming 500 gigabyte external USB hard drives for PS3 -- in Japan. The Buffalo HD-AV500U2 (pictured) and HD-CL500U2 are the first add-on storage solutions to receive Sony's blessings, and are being released overseas in March to coincide with the launch of the PS3's "torne" DVR hardware / software combo.

Apart from the fact that they're officially licensed, neither drive boasts any special features that make them usable only with PS3; in fact, the tower design HD-CL500U2 (¥11,800 / $130) is essentially one of Buffalo's external HDDs already available in the US, with a model number change. The HD-AV500U2 is designed to fit into existing entertainment center setups and features a blue LED display on its front that shows remaining disk space. It's selling for ¥14,800 ($164).

[Via Andriasang]

JoystiqOfficially licensed external PS3 HDDs hitting Japan for 'torne' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Feb 2010 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buffalodvrexternal-hard-drivehard-drivehddsonytorneusb-hard-driveTue, 02 Feb 2010 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bayonetta PS3 patch adds hard drive installation option]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/27/bayonetta-ps3-patch-adds-installation-option/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/27/bayonetta-ps3-patch-adds-installation-option/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/27/bayonetta-ps3-patch-adds-installation-option/#commentsSega of Japan announced that it will release an update for the PS3 version of Bayonetta tomorrow, which adds an "Install" item to the game's main menu. The patch, first tentatively announced in November, is intended to cut down the long load times that have perturbed Bayonetta's PS3 players.

The update doesn't mean the PS3 game will have achieved total parity with the Xbox 360 version -- visual discrepancies, like frame rate issues, will still persist -- but at least Sega has now taken one step towards improving the experience on PS3. The Bayonetta update has only been confirmed for Japan, but its release just happens to fall on this Thursday, when the PlayStation Store updates worldwide, so we wouldn't be shocked to see it arrive everywhere tomorrow.
[Thanks, Copland]

JoystiqBayonetta PS3 patch adds hard drive installation option originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Jan 2010 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bayonettahard-driveinstallationMicrosoftpatchPlatinum Gamesplatinum-gamesPlatinumGamessegaupdateXbox-360Wed, 27 Jan 2010 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The PS3 Slim 'could have been made even smaller']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/15/the-ps3-slim-could-have-been-made-even-smaller/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/15/the-ps3-slim-could-have-been-made-even-smaller/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/15/the-ps3-slim-could-have-been-made-even-smaller/#comments We think the redesigned PS3 is small enough. However, Sony's Japanese designers, in their continuing desire to shrink things, noted that the PS3 Slim "could have been made even smaller."

Sony's executive VP of technology Masayuki Chatani spoke with Japanese newspaper Nikkei about the challenges of designing a slimmer PS3. The goal was not only to cut costs, but to expand its attractiveness to "an even wider range of users." Considering the Japanese penchant for small electronics, the original PS3's girth was certainly a limiting factor.

However, certain sacrifices would have been necessary for Sony to pursue an even smaller box. One option was to place "the power supply on the outside," much like Microsoft's Xbox 360 power brick. Taking yet another page from Microsoft, an even more drastic option considered was to remove the hard drive altogether. The alternatives -- Flash memory or virtual network storage -- proved to be too expensive, and too unreliable. Ultimately, the Sony team chose function over form. "One of the best features of the PS3 is that people can download games to the internal local storage unit and play comfortably." That reminds us -- we need a bigger couch.

[Via IGN]

JoystiqThe PS3 Slim 'could have been made even smaller' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hard-driveplaystation-3ps3ps3-slimsonyTue, 15 Dec 2009 13:00:00 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[Engadget seduces PS3 Slim, removes hard drive]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/21/engadget-seduces-ps3-slim-removes-hard-drive/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/21/engadget-seduces-ps3-slim-removes-hard-drive/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/21/engadget-seduces-ps3-slim-removes-hard-drive/#comments
We jokingly throw the word "technophile" around when referring to our colleagues over at Engadget -- but their most recent video preview of the PS3 Slim gives us serious cause for concern. You'll need to watch it (posted after the break) to see what we mean. We're not really disturbed by the way former Joystiq writer Ross Miller pries the svelte console's HDD from its innards. No, it's the soft piano music playing in the background and general tenderness exhibited by the cameraman that give the whole production an unsettling, Graduate-esque feel.

"Oh, hey, PS3 Slim. Look at you. You're looking mighty shapely this evening. Why don't you turn around for me. Yeah, real slow. Let me feel those buttons. That's nice, that's nice. Would you like some wine? We've got a lovely decanter of Garrafeira, imported straight from ... no? Are you comfortable? Good. Let's see that hard drive."

Continue reading Engadget seduces PS3 Slim, removes hard drive

JoystiqEngadget seduces PS3 Slim, removes hard drive originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Aug 2009 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comparisonengadgethands-onhard-drivehddps3-slimseductionunboxingvideoFri, 21 Aug 2009 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[New Xbox update to shrink some hard drive installs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/03/new-xbox-update-to-shrink-some-hard-drive-installs/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/03/new-xbox-update-to-shrink-some-hard-drive-installs/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/03/new-xbox-update-to-shrink-some-hard-drive-installs/#comments
Posters on Cheap Ass Gamer who keep track of Xbox 360 hard drive installs noticed that those who'd been admitted to the dashboard update preview program were seeing games take up markedly less space than before (a fact later confirmed by Digital Foundry). How much smaller? Well, DF noticed that King of Fighters XII and Raiden Fighters Aces went from 3.4GB to 703 and 484MB respectively, post update.

By DF's approximation, the update allows the system to be more efficient in selecting what non-essential data it puts on the hard drive. Though that results in a big savings in some cases, there are exceptions. Fable 2, for example, is no smaller post-update, leading us to assume Lionhead needed every inch of the disc for all that GOTY material.

JoystiqNew Xbox update to shrink some hard drive installs originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 03 Aug 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hard-driveinstallsking-of-fighters-xiimicrosoftnxeraiden-fighters-acesXbox-360Mon, 03 Aug 2009 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mysterious PS3 eSATA adapter promises massive HDD storage]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/03/mysterious-ps3-esata-adapter-promises-massive-hdd-storage/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/03/mysterious-ps3-esata-adapter-promises-massive-hdd-storage/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/03/mysterious-ps3-esata-adapter-promises-massive-hdd-storage/#comments Without any markings distinguishing a designer, it's difficult to discern whether this miracle storage solution for the PS3 actually exists. Dubbed "PS3 HD Plus PHE-01," this supposed eSATA adapter latches to the bottom of any PS3 promising connectivity to an external SATA hard disk for some majorly powerful storage capacity.

Sure, there are other ways of getting massive amounts of bytes onto the PS3. One can simply swap in a new internal 2.5" SATA into the system, or even just hook up any old USB hard drive with little hassle; however, the latter won't give the same transfer speed as an eSATA. From the looks of it, the PHE-01 also comes with an additional four USB ports. Still, there isn't much else we know about this product or if it is even commercially viable ... or real. Maybe it's a leaked prototype perhaps? While we ponder this, you can check out more images of it at Gemaga.

JoystiqMysterious PS3 eSATA adapter promises massive HDD storage originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Feb 2009 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoriesesatahard-drivehddprototypeps3-accessoriesrumorTue, 03 Feb 2009 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Reminder: 360 memory upgrade program ends Saturday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/29/reminder-360-memory-upgrade-program-ends-saturday/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/29/reminder-360-memory-upgrade-program-ends-saturday/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/29/reminder-360-memory-upgrade-program-ends-saturday/#comments
Last call for those Xbox 360 Arcade console owners who are looking to take advantage of Microsoft's NXE storage solution offer. The program -- which was setup to get Arcade console owners storage to install the NXE -- ends this Saturday, January 31st when Microsoft will pull the plug on the website. To receive either your free 512MB memory card or to take advantage of their 20GB HDD deal, simply head over to the official memory request website, enter your console information and review what storage solution offers you receive. There is no time for procrastination, so get to it!

[Thanks, Beagles]

JoystiqReminder: 360 memory upgrade program ends Saturday originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Jan 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hard-drivehddmicrosoftnew-xbox-experiencenxeupdateThu, 29 Jan 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Circuit City selling 360 120GB HDD for $80]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/18/rumor-circuit-city-selling-360-120gb-hdd-for-80/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/18/rumor-circuit-city-selling-360-120gb-hdd-for-80/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/18/rumor-circuit-city-selling-360-120gb-hdd-for-80/#commentsFiled under:


According to posters at the Slick Deals forum, Circuit City is currently selling the 120GB hard drive for the Xbox 360 at the staggeringly reduced price of $80. These puppies normally sell for twice that price, so it's one heck of a deal. There is a small catch though: you'll have to hoof it over to your local Circuit City if you want to get your hands on one, the deal is nowhere to be found online. In fact, we can't even find the 120GB drive listed at the Circuit City website at all. The deal isn't being advertised, but several members of the Slick Deals forums have attested to its authenticity.

If anyone out there has managed to take advantage of the deal, let us know in the comments. You might want to act quickly. We don't know how long it will last.

[Via Punch Jump. Thanks Jonah.]

JoystiqRumor: Circuit City selling 360 120GB HDD for $80 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 18 Dec 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>120gbbargainsdealshard-driveThu, 18 Dec 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[HDD-equipped Wiis now taunting you at Nintendo World Store]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/22/hdd-equipped-wiis-now-taunting-you-at-nintendo-world-store/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/22/hdd-equipped-wiis-now-taunting-you-at-nintendo-world-store/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/22/hdd-equipped-wiis-now-taunting-you-at-nintendo-world-store/#commentsFiled under:



The next time you pay a visit to the Nintendo World Store, we advise taking a balaclava and a glass cutter. As the above video demonstrates, the outlet now boasts a bunch of hard drive-equipped Wiis, each of which has around 20 games stored on it, ready for instantaneous selection; generally really good games, as well.

Judging by the menu from which you choose titles, these are identical to the Starlight Foundation Fun Centers that have been getting installed in hospitals. Now, you can try one out for free, without even having to break one of your limbs or anything.

[Via Go Nintendo; thanks, Glare!]

JoystiqHDD-equipped Wiis now taunting you at Nintendo World Store originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Oct 2008 12:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fun-centerhard-drivehddnintendo-world-storestorageWed, 22 Oct 2008 12:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Point/Counterpoint: Is saving to SD the right way to keep Wii fridges fresh?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/17/point-counterpoint-is-saving-to-sd-the-right-way-to-keep-wii-fr/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/17/point-counterpoint-is-saving-to-sd-the-right-way-to-keep-wii-fr/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/17/point-counterpoint-is-saving-to-sd-the-right-way-to-keep-wii-fr/#commentsFiled under:


During Nintendo's conference, Satoru Iwata announced the long-awaited fix for the Wii storage "crisis" -- but rather than the Wii Hard Drive peripheral or the pipe-dream "you can use any USB hard drive!" update that Wii fans dreamed of, Nintendo has chosen to refine the current SD card implementation. Basically, you can now save things from the Wii Shop Channel directly to the SD card. The act of transferring from the SD card to the Wii's internal storage and back will be simplified, as well.

Despite not being exactly what people wanted, will it serve our needs? Is saving to the SD card the right solution? Two bloggers have copied their thoughts on the subject over from their internal memory.

JoystiqPoint/Counterpoint: Is saving to SD the right way to keep Wii fridges fresh? originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hard-drivesd-cardstorageFri, 17 Oct 2008 15:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Developers describe the Wii successor for 2011]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/01/rumor-developers-describe-the-wii-successor-for-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/01/rumor-developers-describe-the-wii-successor-for-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/01/rumor-developers-describe-the-wii-successor-for-2011/#commentsFiled under:

Nintendo's upcoming (tomorrow!) media summit is a big mystery -- which is good, actually, or there'd be no point to holding a media summit to tell us about new stuff. Will they show off a new Wii console there? Most certainly not, unless Nintendo's plan to increase Wii availability for the holiday season involves convincing people not to buy a Wii.

It's a bit more likely that a new Wii will be revealed by 2011 than by ... tomorrow. What They Play's John Davison reports that some developers have already seen an early version of the next Wii, something they're unofficially calling the "Wii HD." According to these shadowy sources, the new console will include some kind of "local storage medium" and high-definition video output.

Davison cites Nintendo's skyrocketing research and development costs as evidence of this new console's development, but we don't even think that's necessary. There's no reason to believe Nintendo isn't readying the next console. What isn't so easy to determine is whether anyone has actually seen it yet, or if we're being told what we want to hear.

[Via Siliconera]

JoystiqRumor: Developers describe the Wii successor for 2011 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Oct 2008 09:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hard-drivewii-hdWed, 01 Oct 2008 09:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Built-in HDD 'prematurely' killed off the original Xbox]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/17/built-in-hdd-prematurely-killed-off-the-original-xbox/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/17/built-in-hdd-prematurely-killed-off-the-original-xbox/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/17/built-in-hdd-prematurely-killed-off-the-original-xbox/#commentsFiled under:


"The hard drive in every Xbox killed us" admitted Peter Moore who, in an interview with guardian, mentioned that it and the cost associated with the drives was one of the main reasons Microsoft chose to move away from the original Xbox so quickly.

The Xbox's built-in HDD was "why we prematurely left the original" Moore admitted, "we were still selling it [the console] at $199 and the hard drive was like $70 ... it was killing us, and there was no way to bring the price down. So in the end we determined at around the 25 million unit mark that we just needed to slow this thing down and just not sell any more, and move to the 360 as quickly as we possibly could." Intriguing. Maybe now with the 360's not so mandatory HDD, we'll see a console life cycle that'll last beyond five years. Maybe?

[Via Shacknews]

JoystiqBuilt-in HDD 'prematurely' killed off the original Xbox originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Sep 2008 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hard-drivehddpeter-moorexboxWed, 17 Sep 2008 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii fans' wish come true: Nintendo Fun Center in action]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/17/wii-fans-wish-come-true-nintendo-fun-center-in-action/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/17/wii-fans-wish-come-true-nintendo-fun-center-in-action/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/17/wii-fans-wish-come-true-nintendo-fun-center-in-action/#commentsFiled under:


WiiHacks forum moderator ModderMan recently took his kid to the hospital for a broken leg, and discovered one of the Starlight Foundation Fun Centers made specifically for hospitals. We're sure he paid appropriate attention to his son and all, but the calling of, uh, someone who cares a lot about the Wii cannot be ignored.

While he was unable to figure out how to open up the unit, ModderMan took video footage of the device and its interface instead. The selection of games ranges from the expected Nintendo hits to things like Elebits and Zack and Wiki, whose release Nintendo apparently noticed!

He also inspected the inside of the unit with the aid of a flashlight. The biggest revelation here is that since there are 20 games on the device, and since one of the USB slots was occupied, there's probably a hard drive at work here. In a Wii. But this probably has as much to do with the development of retail Wiis as those hotel systems did with other Nintendo systems.

[Thanks, Eoin!]

JoystiqWii fans' wish come true: Nintendo Fun Center in action originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Sep 2008 12:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fun-centerhard-drivehospitalstarlight-foundationWed, 17 Sep 2008 12:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Miyamoto and Reggie talk storage solutions, peripherals]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/08/miyamoto-and-reggie-talk-storage-solutions-peripherals/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/08/miyamoto-and-reggie-talk-storage-solutions-peripherals/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/08/miyamoto-and-reggie-talk-storage-solutions-peripherals/#commentsFiled under:


In a recent Club Nintendo interview, Reggie Fils-Aime and Shigeru Miyamoto both touched on some important things on the mind of all Wii owners. The first thing that many are still asking about is the lack of a hard drive. Well, Miyamoto commented that the company is still working on it and exploring all of the possible technologies, to which Reggie added that the company hasn't specified a traditional hard drive or another kind of storage, but will create a solution that is "better than what we have now."

Miyamoto was also asked about MotionPlus and incorporating it into future Zelda games. Miyamoto said that Nintendo was working on a new Zelda game (and also Pikmin), but would not comment as to each title supporting Waggle 2.0. He also commented that we shouldn't expect any new peripherals any time soon, seeing as how there are so many available for the Wii now. We're glad for that, because our limited closet space has meant that storing them all has been a big hassle.

So, the biggest thing to come out of this piece for Club Nintendo is more of the hard drive talk, although we guess we can't call it that, since Nintendo may want something different than a traditional hard drive. What other kind of technologies could they mean? What could be a comparable storage solution to a hard drive and yet not be a hard drive?

JoystiqMiyamoto and Reggie talk storage solutions, peripherals originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Sep 2008 11:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hard-drivemiyamotopikminreggiereggie-fils-aimeshigeru-miyamotostoragezeldaMon, 08 Sep 2008 11:52:00 EST<![CDATA[Save your VC games to the 'Wii hard drive']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/13/save-your-vc-games-to-the-wii-hard-drive/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/13/save-your-vc-games-to-the-wii-hard-drive/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/13/save-your-vc-games-to-the-wii-hard-drive/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

And by "Wii hard drive" we actually mean "portable air conditioner." This image emerged from the bowels of the internet earlier today, purporting to be a Nintendo-designed hard drive for the Wii. The pranksters responsible for this didn't count on the razor-sharp observational skills of one JC Fletcher, who located this familiar-looking air conditioner at Amazon Japan. Nintendo had earlier dismissed the image as "rumor and speculation" when CVG inquired, but this pretty much nails it.

Not that this forgery is good for nothing -- for example, it does give us an excuse to once again raise the issue of where the heck our storage solution is, Reggie, and also a chance to guide you into our Wii mockup gallery of lulz.

Yamazen portable air conditioner here
Nintendo's denial here

[Update: Spelling correction!]

JoystiqSave your VC games to the 'Wii hard drive' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 Aug 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fakehard-drivehardwarestorageWed, 13 Aug 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Fall update game installation process]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/09/video-fall-update-game-installation-process/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/09/video-fall-update-game-installation-process/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/09/video-fall-update-game-installation-process/#commentsFiled under: ,

Looky here kids, it's the Fall dashboard update in the hands of some uber l33t dude who "magically" has the new dashboard installed on his Xbox 360. Even better, he (or she) demos the new hard drive game installation process using GTAIV. From the looks of things, the process isn't quick (copying gigs and gigs of data never is), but does actually copy over ever single megabyte from the disc. Though, you'll need the disc to load the game. Pop some popcorn, sit back and enjoy the Fall update game installation process.

[Thanks, DCB and SS1029]

JoystiqVideo: Fall update game installation process originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 09 Aug 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dashboard-updatefall-updategtaivhard-driveSat, 09 Aug 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Install your Xbox 360 games to the hard drive, access XBLM on the web]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/14/install-your-xbox-360-games-to-the-hard-drive-access-xblm-on-th/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/14/install-your-xbox-360-games-to-the-hard-drive-access-xblm-on-th/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/14/install-your-xbox-360-games-to-the-hard-drive-access-xblm-on-th/#commentsFiled under: ,


Major Nelson just updated and offered a bit more detail about the upcoming Dashboard update for Xbox 360. Some of the cooler things:
  • Play from hard drive. You'll be able to copy game discs to your Xbox 360 hard drive. Installing the games will prevent wear 'n tear on the disc drive, and will shorten load times. You will still need the disc in the disc tray to prove you own the game. Hopefully, installing things on the Xbox 360 will come with sage advice, a la Metal Gear Solid 4.
  • Access Xbox LIVE Marketplace on the Web. If you're not near your Xbox 360, you can still use this "Internet" thing to browse and purchase things from the Marketplace. Once you purchase something from Xbox.com, it will download automatically to your console while you're away.
  • Xbox LIVE Primetime. This is a "whole new category of games" that not only supports Achievements and leaderboards, but will also offer real prizes. Games are played throughout the Xbox LIVE network and each game is "broadcast simultaneously" so that everyone is partaking in the same activity. These events can feature live hosts, "calling the shots as they happen."
[Thanks, Glitch W.!]

JoystiqInstall your Xbox 360 games to the hard drive, access XBLM on the web originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Jul 2008 16:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingnewsE3e3-2008hard-driveinstallinstallationmajor-nelsonxblmxbox-360xbox-livexbox-live-marketplacexbox-live-primetimeMon, 14 Jul 2008 16:11:00 EST<![CDATA[No plans for external hardware, says Fischer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/17/no-plans-for-external-hardware-says-fischer/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/17/no-plans-for-external-hardware-says-fischer/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/17/no-plans-for-external-hardware-says-fischer/#commentsFiled under: ,

After screwing up and subsequently apologizing, Nintendo Europe's Laurent Fischer wants to get back to work. He does so by addressing the ever-present desire for extra Wii storage space. Yeah, kind of a touchy subject to bring up so soon after Fischergate, but there has to be some big revelation, right?

Well, apparently Nintendo are "working on a solution," but "there's no plan to issue hardware." Fischer is referring to an external hard drive, a device that geeks and otaku gamers are eager to get. Iwata gave everyone hope, but those sentiments have been pretty much squared away in the bollocks box. There's always talk, always rumors and speculation, but still no storage -- and now, no plans.

Check out the full feature for more details, but beyond telling us what we already know, Fischer and Nintendo aren't revealing anything.

JoystiqNo plans for external hardware, says Fischer originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Jun 2008 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hard-drivehddlaurent-fischersdstorageTue, 17 Jun 2008 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Fischer regrets 'geeks and otaku' comment, Jaffe sticks oar in]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/13/fischer-regrets-geeks-and-otaku-comment-jaffe-sticks-oar-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/13/fischer-regrets-geeks-and-otaku-comment-jaffe-sticks-oar-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/13/fischer-regrets-geeks-and-otaku-comment-jaffe-sticks-oar-in/#commentsFiled under:

The internet, as it tends to do on occasions, went and got itself in a great big tizzy last week, after Nintendo of Europe's Laurent Fischer suggested that only "geeks and otaku" cared about the Wii's storage issue. It wasn't the smartest move of Fischer's career, and it attracted considerable bile -- and not just from Nintendo fans.

God of War creator David Jaffe, as he tends to do on occasions, got narked, and expressed his annoyance over the comment in a colorful entry on his blog. After dedicating a hefty part of his amusing rant to comparing Fischer's remarks with 1987 film Can't Buy Me Love, Jaffe accused Nintendo of "arrogance [...] that should make the company very ashamed," and suggests that Fischer "has no real clue" about games -- all while getting Fischer's gender wrong (" ... she really needs someone to sit her down and explain to her ... "). Brilliant.

Anyway, just as Jaffe was about to hoisted onto the shoulders of Nintendo fans everywhere, Fischer went and spoiled all the fun by apologizing ... sort of. "I have huge respect for those who, like me, share a common passion for Nintendo and want to make it clear that I would never use and I didn't use this terminology in such a context or way to cause offence," Fischer blubbed. "I regret that this misunderstanding has created such offence and disappointment within the community."

It's not the most heartfelt apology we've ever heard, but we'll take it. Now give us a hard drive, Fischer.

[Via Eurogamer]

JoystiqFischer regrets 'geeks and otaku' comment, Jaffe sticks oar in originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Jun 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>david-jaffegeekshard-driveharddrivelaurent-fischerlaurentfischerotakupublicitystorageFri, 13 Jun 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Solid state hard drives offer little gain in PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/solid-state-hard-drives-offer-little-gain-in-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/solid-state-hard-drives-offer-little-gain-in-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/solid-state-hard-drives-offer-little-gain-in-ps3/#commentsFiled under:


One of the great things about PS3 is the ability throw your own hard drive into the system, without voiding the warranty. Many PS3 hardcore have already put faster, bigger hard drives into their consoles. But what about the latest tech, solid state hard drives? Do they offer any benefit to PS3 owners?

Solid state hard drives have been around for a while, but only recently have they dropped in price to something far more reasonable. Without any moving parts, they consume less energy and can be found in an increasing number of mobile devices, like the MacBook Air. However, putting the drive in a PS3 offers interesting results.

Gamespot did a thorough PC-like evaluation of the drives, and showed that writing to the disc is significantly slower. For example, the infamous Devil May Cry 4 installation goes from 21.2 minutes to a whopping 32.5 minutes -- better buy another sandwich! However, load times do decrease due to the speediness of read times off a solid state drive. Grand Theft Auto IV, for example, loads 4 seconds faster on a system equipped with a solid state drive.

Considering how these drives are upwards of $400, there is very little incentive to get a solid state drive. As important it is for things to load quickly, it's just as important to make sure data is written efficiently. For those trying to upgrade their hard drives, a standard high-rpm drive looks to be in order.

[Via Digg]

JoystiqSolid state hard drives offer little gain in PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Jun 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hard-driveps3solidstatedrivessdMon, 09 Jun 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon discounts 20GB and 120GB 360 hard drives]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/amazon-discounts-20gb-and-120gb-360-hard-drives/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/amazon-discounts-20gb-and-120gb-360-hard-drives/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/amazon-discounts-20gb-and-120gb-360-hard-drives/#commentsFiled under: ,

Going hand in hand with this week's retail Xbox 360 deals thus making this a money savings morning, we bring you word that Amazon.com has a few good deals on Xbox 360 hard drives. Money savings on both the 20GB drive and uber large 120GB model.

As part of their gaming "Deal of the Day", today and today only Amazon.com has discounted the 360's (already overpriced) 20GB hard drive to $65 and the 120GB hard drive to $135. As always, Amazon doesn't charge shipping on orders over $25 and (for most buyers) is also tax free. So, if you're in the market for a new 360 hard drive, today just might be the day for you to jump in and ease the purchasing pain by saving yourself 25% off of retail. Every penny counts.

[Thanks, Ben]

JoystiqAmazon discounts 20GB and 120GB 360 hard drives originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Jun 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>120-gb-hdd20-gb-hddamazonhard-drivehddperipheralsMon, 09 Jun 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[120GB HDD pricing analyzed and it's overpriced]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/08/120gb-hdd-pricing-analyzed-and-its-overpriced/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/08/120gb-hdd-pricing-analyzed-and-its-overpriced/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/08/120gb-hdd-pricing-analyzed-and-its-overpriced/#commentsFiled under: ,

The crew over at MTV Multiplayer did some detective word, analyzed the cost to produce the Xbox 360's 120GB HDD peripheral and guess what? They concluded that it's one over-priced hard drive ... shocker! According to their research, the 120GB drive (which retails for $179 in the U.S.) costs around $75 for the drive itself, another $5 or so for the special software and casing bringing the total to about $80. Tack on a Microsoft profit of around $20 per drive and a retail profit of around $80 and you've got yourself a $180 120GB HDD. Way too expensive. You'd think Microsoft would want to make it cost effective for gamers to upgrade their 360's storage seeing that the majority of the content being put on them is paid XBLM content. Guess not though.

Joystiq120GB HDD pricing analyzed and it's overpriced originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 May 2008 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>120gbhddhard-drivemicrosoftperipheralsThu, 08 May 2008 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Warm Up: New storage theories]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/05/wii-warm-up-new-storage-theories/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/05/wii-warm-up-new-storage-theories/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/05/wii-warm-up-new-storage-theories/#commentsFiled under:

Now that Iwata has said that folks at Nintendo might be considering doing something about the storage crisis, it's time to get our speculation on about what will happen. Will we hear an announcement at E3? Perhaps before, or -- gasp -- after? We would hate to wait! And what'll it be? A new model with a built-in hard drive? Considering the continuing difficulty some people have with simply laying hands on a Wii, that seems unlikely, but multiple SKUs have worked for the other systems. Still, that sort of solution seems far, far less likely than an upgrade allowing larger SD cards or additional plug-in flash memory. Do you think we'll see a solution by the end of the year, and do you care to guess just what it might be?

JoystiqWii Warm Up: New storage theories originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 May 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hard-drivememorystorageMon, 05 May 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Iwata: We're looking into the Flash Memory situation]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/01/iwata-were-looking-into-the-flash-memory-situation/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/01/iwata-were-looking-into-the-flash-memory-situation/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/01/iwata-were-looking-into-the-flash-memory-situation/#commentsFiled under:

Yes, you read that title correctly. The dire situation regarding every Wii owner not having enough storage space is being considered by the Big N, so you can all bet we're happy campers. While Nintendo president Satoru Iwata doesn't come out and say that Nintendo is working on a hard drive for the console, or some other solution, he does say enough to get our hopes up for some sort of memory expansion (or support for external hard drives through USB).

"Statistically speaking, it is true that there are a small number of customers who feel that the flash memory is too small, while many others find that they have plenty of memory," says Iwata. "However, because this small number of people are none other than the most avid players, we know we have to review the best possible solution to eliminate their inconvenience." Interesting bit in that last line, if we may say so.

We all know that being able to re-download something just isn't a good enough solution because, well, it's a total pain. But, if Nintendo can come up with a solution to our storage space issues that doesn't provide us with a hard drive to buy or support for USB external drives, we'll be fine with it. We just need something to help us eliminate the chore of moving things around each and every week.

[Via IGN; Thanks to everyone who sent this in!]

JoystiqIwata: We're looking into the Flash Memory situation originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 01 May 2008 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hard-driveiwatasatoru-iwatastorageThu, 01 May 2008 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Harmonix explains gimped Wii Rock Band]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/09/harmonix-explains-gimped-wii-rock-band/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/09/harmonix-explains-gimped-wii-rock-band/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/09/harmonix-explains-gimped-wii-rock-band/#commentsFiled under: ,

So it appears you're all pretty upset about the Wii version of Rock Band. And hey, we can't blame you -- we feel the same way! The reduced feature-set of the Wii game hurts, and like many of you, the lack of online play and DLC may well force us to purchase another version.

But according to developer Harmonix, none of this is really its fault -- nope, it's the Wii that's to blame, specifically the lack of a Wii hard drive. Quoth Harmonix design director Rob Kay: "[...] We need a hard drive. That's what we want. The whole problem is there's nowhere to store it. If the platform could do it, we'd jump on it."

Which is a valid point, actually. With single songs on other versions weighing in at around 30 - 45MB, the Wii's 512MB of internal storage would fill up quickly. We remain justifiably cross, however, at the missing online play.

JoystiqHarmonix explains gimped Wii Rock Band originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Apr 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlceahard-driveharmonixmusicrhythmrock-bandWed, 09 Apr 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Warm Up: Storage space]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/06/wii-warm-up-storage-space/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/06/wii-warm-up-storage-space/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/06/wii-warm-up-storage-space/#commentsFiled under:


We've talked about the hard drive issue before, but now we're curious as to how much space you have left on your Wii. If you have the time, you can turn it on and give us an exact amount, but estimates are fine, too! Are you almost full already? Do you still have tons of space left? Or, are you somewhere in between?

JoystiqWii Warm Up: Storage space originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 06 Apr 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hard-driveharddriveSun, 06 Apr 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Kohler: WiiWare needs demos, storage device to match XBLA and PSN]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/26/kohler-wiiware-needs-demos-storage-device-to-match-xbla-and-ps/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/26/kohler-wiiware-needs-demos-storage-device-to-match-xbla-and-ps/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/26/kohler-wiiware-needs-demos-storage-device-to-match-xbla-and-ps/#commentsFiled under:

Having fully recovered from his one-man mission to review as many WiiWare games inside 24 hours as is humanly possible, Game|Life's Chris Kohler is back with his thoughts about WiiWare in general. His verdict? Not bad, but it lacks crucial features that would elevate the service to the standards already set by Xbox Live Arcade and the PlayStation Network.

As well as doubting the value of Lonpos, Star Soldier R and Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: My Life As a King in his commentary, Kohler's main bones of contention are two gripes that we're all too familiar with: the lack of demos and a storage device. As he points out, "When you buy a WiiWare game, you can't try it first, and if you don't like it, you're totally boned because you can't sell it to someone else or trade it in. WiiWare needs demos. And I bet you anything it's not going to get them."

It saddens us to say so, but we have to agree with that last bit, and a hard drive looks just as unlikely right now.

JoystiqKohler: WiiWare needs demos, storage device to match XBLA and PSN originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 Mar 2008 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demohard-drivekohlerWed, 26 Mar 2008 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: 60GB to replace 20GB HDD in 360 Pros]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/07/rumor-60gb-to-replace-20gb-hdd-in-360-pros/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/07/rumor-60gb-to-replace-20gb-hdd-in-360-pros/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/07/rumor-60gb-to-replace-20gb-hdd-in-360-pros/#commentsFiled under: ,

With rumors of European Xbox 360 price cuts flying around, we have yet another 360 hardware rumor making the internet rounds and it targets the 360's hard drive.

According to TrustedReviews and their "rock solid source", they're claiming that Microsoft has plans to replace the Xbox 360 Pros' current 20GB HDD with a larger 60GB drive by this June. A move that isn't all that far fetched seeing that they probably want to to help accommodate all that HD content they want you to purchase off the Marketplace. TrustedReviews ratchets up the rumor mill even further by saying that their insider told them that Microsoft is bouncing around the idea of adding yet another SKU to the 360 lineup. A new console that would reap the fruits of the rumored Sony / Microsoft negotiations and feature a Blu-ray drive. So, is anyone willing to take a stab at what the rumored 60GB HDD or Blu-ray equipped models would be called? We'll be trail-blazers and go with "Xbox 360 Six Pack" for the 60GB model and "Xbox 360 HD DVD Died So Blu-ray It Is" for the Blu-ray version.

[Via Engadget]

JoystiqRumor: 60GB to replace 20GB HDD in 360 Pros originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 07 Mar 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hard-drivemicrosoftprorumorxbox-360xbox-360-proFri, 07 Mar 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Devs still bitter about non-HDD Xbox 360 Arcade]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/04/devs-still-bitter-about-non-hdd-xbox-360-arcade/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/04/devs-still-bitter-about-non-hdd-xbox-360-arcade/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/04/devs-still-bitter-about-non-hdd-xbox-360-arcade/#commentsFiled under:

We thought we were in the clear regarding the controversy that surrounded both the hard drive'less Xbox 360 Core and Arcade models, but we've come to accept that sensitive topics like this will never die.

In a recent chat with CVG, Bourne Conspiracy lead designer Rory McGuire flat out said that Microsoft made a "mistake" with their decision to not make a hard drive mandatory in all Xbox 360 models. McGuire told CVG that "in retrospect I wish Microsoft had made the choice to have [mandatory] hard drives like Sony did with the PS3." McGuire further went on to explain the development advantages of having a HDD saying that "if you have a hard drive, the whole game loads faster. Obviously you'll be facing a short install time, but the developer benefits from it and you definitely benefit from it as a player." Take that Microsoft!

On second analysis, it's entirely possible that Microsoft could make HDDs mandatory in all Xbox 360 consoles by axing the Arcade and taking out another $1.9 billion hit to ship 20GB HDDs to Core and Arcade owners. Makes sense to us.

JoystiqDevs still bitter about non-HDD Xbox 360 Arcade originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 Mar 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcadebourne-conspiracycorehard-drivemicrosoftnomorecorexbox-360Tue, 04 Mar 2008 13:30:00 EST