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[Surprise: XBLA Minecraft's split-screen multiplayer requires HDTV]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/surprise-xbla-minecrafts-split-screen-multiplayer-requires-hdt/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/surprise-xbla-minecrafts-split-screen-multiplayer-requires-hdt/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/surprise-xbla-minecrafts-split-screen-multiplayer-requires-hdt/#comments ImageSplit-screen multiplayer in the Xbox 360 version of Minecraft requires an HDTV connection, but the game's description on the Xbox Live Marketplace website fails to note this necessity. Minecraft's description on XBLA does list "HDTV 720p" under the "Local Capabilities" details, but that generally is taken to mean the title will support up to HD 720p, and not as a requirement. In-game, a screen prompts players to "play the game in High Definition mode" for split-screen multiplayer.

Notch wasn't aware that local multiplayer wouldn't work with standard-definition TVs, he tweeted and apologized to a fan today.

Port developer 4J Studios has justified the HD requirement on Twitter: "The inventory and crafting just didn't work in splitscreen Standard Definition - it was too small to make out."

Some fans want a refund from Microsoft, saying they wouldn't have bought Minecraft if the HD requirement was clearer, but Microsoft is holding out on a few of them, Kotaku reports.

JoystiqSurprise: XBLA Minecraft's split-screen multiplayer requires HDTV originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 May 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hdhd-720hdtvlocal-multiplayermicrosoftMinecraftmojangmultiplayernotchsplit-screenXBLAxboxThu, 10 May 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live streaming iHeartRadio music festival this weekend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/21/xbox-live-streaming-iheartradio-music-festival-this-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/21/xbox-live-streaming-iheartradio-music-festival-this-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/21/xbox-live-streaming-iheartradio-music-festival-this-weekend/#comments You like live music, right? Of course you do; who in their right mind could possibly hate live music? Well, you can gorge yourself on this weekend's iHeartRadio music festival, which will be streaming in HD on Xbox 360 through a partnership with Clear Channel Radio.

Held at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, iHeartRadio will feature dozens of what the kids call "fresh acts," including Carrie Underwood, Lady Gaga, Jay-Z, Jane's Addiction, Kenny Chesney, Coldplay, The Black Eyed Peas, Steven Tyler, Nicki Minaj and many more. iHeartRadio kicks off this Friday and runs through Saturday -- all Silver and Gold members will be able to access the HD stream through a special pane on the Xbox 360 Dashboard.

JoystiqXbox Live streaming iHeartRadio music festival this weekend originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Sep 2011 00:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clear-channel-radiohdhd-streamingiheartradiolive-musicmicrosoftmusicxboxWed, 21 Sep 2011 00:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Nomura considering 'HD technical test' for Kingdom Hearts anniversary]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/09/nomura-considering-hd-technical-test-for-kingdom-hearts-annive/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/09/nomura-considering-hd-technical-test-for-kingdom-hearts-annive/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/09/nomura-considering-hd-technical-test-for-kingdom-hearts-annive/#comments Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance will finally make its hands-on debut at the Tokyo Game Show later this fall -- but does that news really do anything for you? In the latest issue of Japanese gaming mag Dengeki PlayStation (as translated by Andriasang), Square Enix's Tetsuya Nomura explained that it's becoming difficult to get new players into the series with each new iteration. We get the hesitation -- we've played all the Kingdom Hearts games, and still can't follow a majority of their plots.

Nomura mentioned a plan to help bring new players into the fold: As a celebration of the franchise's 10th anniversary, he hopes to release an "HD technical test" of the series. Could that mean remakes of the first two, past-gen games? Maybe a teaser trailer similar to that of Final Fantasy VII HD which Square Enix will undoubtedly never follow up on? We'll try to squeeze some answers out of those lollygaggers during TGS next month.

JoystiqNomura considering 'HD technical test' for Kingdom Hearts anniversary originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dshdjapankingdom-heartskingdom-hearts-3dkingdom-hearts-3d-dream-drop-distancenintendosquare-enixtgs-2011Tue, 09 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: God of War PSP collection coming to PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/16/rumor-god-of-war-psp-collection-coming-to-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/16/rumor-god-of-war-psp-collection-coming-to-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/16/rumor-god-of-war-psp-collection-coming-to-ps3/#comments The so-called "God of War Portable Collection" is headed to PS3 in Asia this July, according to a reported press release sent out by Sony Computer Entertainment Taiwan and posted by international gaming news outlet The Magic Box. While we could not locate the press release on the SCET website, it does appear to have been redistributed on additional news sites, including China Times, a major Taiwan-based media company.

According to The Magic Box, the collection will include graphically enhanced versions of the two God of War PSP games, 2008's Chains of Olympus (pictured) and last November's Ghost of Sparta. The HD ports are said to include both Chinese and English language options and will be packaged together for release in Asia on July 7. It's not been specified whether the collection will be disc-based or digital (or both).

Additionally, no development studio has been attached to the project. The PSP games were created by Ready At Dawn (Ghost of Sparta in collaboration with Santa Monica Studio). Last fall, Ready At Dawn co-founder Ru Weerasuriya said the team had moved on to an action-adventure game based on new IP.

The original God of War Collection, an HD-ification of the first two PS2 games, was released as a single-disc compilation for PS3 in November 2009. A downloadable version followed a year later. We've contacted SCEA for comment on the Portable Collection.

JoystiqRumor: God of War PSP collection coming to PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 16 May 2011 14:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>god-of-war-chains-of-olympusgod-of-war-ghost-of-spartagod-of-war-portable-collectionhdplaystationportps3pspscetsonyMon, 16 May 2011 14:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Modders work their HD magic on Resident Evil 4, no remake required]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/04/modders-work-their-hd-magic-on-resident-evil-4-no-remake-requir/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/04/modders-work-their-hd-magic-on-resident-evil-4-no-remake-requir/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/04/modders-work-their-hd-magic-on-resident-evil-4-no-remake-requir/#comments Though Capcom has big plans to release an HD relaunch of its frequently relaunched survival horror title, Resident Evil 4, the PC modding community has beaten the company to the punch. Check out the video below to see how a cadre of plug-ins can give the title a (totally free) high-def overhaul.

Continue reading Modders work their HD magic on Resident Evil 4, no remake required

JoystiqModders work their HD magic on Resident Evil 4, no remake required originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Apr 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomhdmodpcremakeResident-Evil-4Mon, 04 Apr 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Splinter Cell Classic Trilogy sneaks to June 21, Prince of Persia HD on Blu-ray also delayed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/23/splinter-cell-classic-trilogy-sneaks-to-june-21-prince-of-persi/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/23/splinter-cell-classic-trilogy-sneaks-to-june-21-prince-of-persi/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/23/splinter-cell-classic-trilogy-sneaks-to-june-21-prince-of-persi/#comments Originally due to be released today on both Blu-ray disc and PSN, the HD-ified Splinter Cell Classic Trilogy has slipped off the radar and into the shadows. IGN reports that it'll wait there, for undisclosed reasons, until resurfacing on June 21. It's not alone -- the retail release of the Prince of Persia HD trilogy, also expected today, has been pushed to April 19.

Both trilogies will retail for $40 when they finally arrive on Blu-ray. The three high-res Prince of Persia games are already available via PSN at $15 a pop.

JoystiqSplinter Cell Classic Trilogy sneaks to June 21, Prince of Persia HD on Blu-ray also delayed originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Mar 2011 15:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dcollectiondelayhdplaystationps3psnrelease-dateSplinter-Cell-Chaos-TheorySplinter-Cell-Pandora-Tomorrowsplinter-cell-trilogy-hd-collectiontom-clancyUbisoftWed, 23 Mar 2011 15:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Splinter Cell and Prince of Persia HD trilogies coming March 22 on PS3 Blu-ray disc]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/31/splinter-cell-and-prince-of-persia-hd-trilogies-coming-march-22/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/31/splinter-cell-and-prince-of-persia-hd-trilogies-coming-march-22/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/31/splinter-cell-and-prince-of-persia-hd-trilogies-coming-march-22/#comments Despite being a franchise that's all about sneaking, it comes as no surprise that the first three Splinter Cell games are getting HD facelifts for PS3 -- after all, the Prince of Persia trilogy already has (on PSN, at least). Ubisoft has announced today that both "remastered" series will hit retail on Blu-ray disc March 22 for $40 apiece.

Splinter Cell Classic Trilogy HD will include the original Splinter Cell, Splinter Cell: Pandora Tomorrow and Splinter Cell: Chaos Theory, all three offering 3D modes for compatible televisions. The Prince of Persia Classic Trilogy HD disc contains Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time, Prince of Persia: Warrior Within and Prince of Persia: The Two Thrones. While the games run at a higher resolution, they're identical to their original releases underneath the HD sheen, meaning any bugs that plagued them are present, too.

The Splinter Cell collection will also be released on March 22 on PSN for the same $40 price tag, along with a digital Prince of Persia trilogy "bundle" for the same price. Currently, the three PoP classics are going for $15 a pop as separate downloads on the PlayStation Store.

Continue reading Splinter Cell and Prince of Persia HD trilogies coming March 22 on PS3 Blu-ray disc

JoystiqSplinter Cell and Prince of Persia HD trilogies coming March 22 on PS3 Blu-ray disc originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 31 Jan 2011 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blu-rayhdplaystationPrince-of-Persia-The-Sands-of-Timeps3splinter-cellsplinter-cell-trilogy-hd-collectionubisoftUbisoft-MontrealMon, 31 Jan 2011 15:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Oddworld: Abe's Oddysee HD remake in development at Just Add Water]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/29/oddworld-abes-oddysee-hd-remake-under-development-at-just-add/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/29/oddworld-abes-oddysee-hd-remake-under-development-at-just-add/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/29/oddworld-abes-oddysee-hd-remake-under-development-at-just-add/#comments Though the studio is still hard at work on its HD renovation of one installment of the Oddworld Inhabitants franchise, Stranger's Wrath, it seems Just Add Water already has a second remake underway. EGM recently teased an interview (which will appear in its upcoming March 2011 issue) with series creator Lorne Lanning, in which he reveals, "Abe HD is going into production," later adding, "It's basically Abe's Oddysee being redone in a 3D physics engine as a 2D side-scrolling platformer."

Though pickings are slim in the EGM preview, Lanning did mention that the studio is "not trying to reinvent any wheels. It's like, 'Can we make that experience in a new engine, with new tech, in the old way?'" We bet you can, if you really put your mind to it. We've got our fingers crossed that more details about the Odd remake will surface in the full interview, when the new EGM hits newsstands next month.

JoystiqOddworld: Abe's Oddysee HD remake in development at Just Add Water originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 29 Jan 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hdjust-add-waterlorne-lanningoddworld-abes-oddyseeOddworld-InhabitantsremakeSat, 29 Jan 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft Game Studios not that interested in HD remakes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/26/microsoft-games-studios-not-that-interested-in-hd-remakes/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/26/microsoft-games-studios-not-that-interested-in-hd-remakes/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/26/microsoft-games-studios-not-that-interested-in-hd-remakes/#comments After the success of the God of War Collection, Sony is going all in on the HD remakes, with re-tuned versions of the Sly Cooper, Ico, Medal of Honor and Oddworld games all coming out on the PS3. But fans of the original Halo, Blinx: The Time Sweeper and Voodoo Vince probably won't get to see their favorites in high definition -- Microsoft's Phil Spencer says the company isn't all that interested in remaking older games with HD graphics. "We obviously have a lot of new things going on," he said in an interview with IGN, "so the thought of re-doing a bunch of things is probably difficult to just weave into the overall portfolio."

Of course, he doesn't rule it out, saying that if releasing an HD collection could "provide real value to the customer, there could be possibilities for that." But it's too bad that he doesn't think any of the early Microsoft Game Studios titles deserve an HD remake right away. Not even Quantum Redshift, guys? Of course seeing that game running in full HD and hearing the Junkie XL soundtrack would be valuable!

JoystiqMicrosoft Game Studios not that interested in HD remakes originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Oct 2010 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hdmicrosoftMicrosoft-Game-Studiosphil-spencerremakesxboxTue, 26 Oct 2010 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Buy the Lord of the Rings HD trilogy on PSN, get a free dynamic theme]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/11/buy-the-lord-of-the-rings-hd-trilogy-on-psn-get-a-free-dynamic/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/11/buy-the-lord-of-the-rings-hd-trilogy-on-psn-get-a-free-dynamic/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/11/buy-the-lord-of-the-rings-hd-trilogy-on-psn-get-a-free-dynamic/#comments We're constantly looking for reasons to re-purchase the Lord of the Rings film trilogy -- a fact clearly evidenced by our ownership of the theatrical versions of the films, the extended director's cut of each movie, the Blu-ray version of the trilogy, and another set of each of those, so we can keep one in mint condition, and watch the other on a bi-weekly basis.

A recent PlayStation.Blog post has informed us that we'll need to shell out for yet another version of the films: The HD, downloadable trilogy on the PlayStation Store. Not only does it curtail our need to purchase two versions of the bundle, but it also comes with a free, LoTR-based dynamic PS3 theme. We've already collected a number of background skins for Sony's home gaming console, but we have a feeling this one has a pretty good shot at ruling them all.

JoystiqBuy the Lord of the Rings HD trilogy on PSN, get a free dynamic theme originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 11 Apr 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blu-raydynamic-themehdhigh-deflord-of-the-ringsmovienew-line-cinemaplaystation-storepsnthemetrilogySun, 11 Apr 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Art of God of War III at Gallery Nucleus]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/29/the-art-of-god-of-war-iii-at-gallery-nucleus/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/29/the-art-of-god-of-war-iii-at-gallery-nucleus/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/29/the-art-of-god-of-war-iii-at-gallery-nucleus/#comments The God of War III art team held a panel this past weekend in Alhambra, California, at a place called Gallery Nucleus. In front of an audience packed to capacity, artists (from left to right above) Scott Seeto, Jung Ho Park, Izzy, Andy Park, Cecil Kim, and Andrew Kim spoke and answered questions about how they'd come up with the art designs for Kratos' final story ("as far as I know," Cecil Kim said, "there is no more God of War").

They were first asked about bringing the game into the HD generation, and how that affected their work on the games. Mostly, it just meant more work for them -- they pointed out that even when the camera isn't close-up on Kratos, you can still see the muscles in his back tense as he pulls out his blades. Art designers in HD have to be meticulous about details, and as a result, character development takes about six times longer. The team also said that they were impressed by the PS3 hardware -- on the PS2 versions of the game, the developers knew how far they could push the older console, but on the PS3, "we still don't know what we can do with it."

Gallery: The Art of God of War at Gallery Nucleus

Continue reading The Art of God of War III at Gallery Nucleus

JoystiqThe Art of God of War III at Gallery Nucleus originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Mar 2010 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artart-teambladesconceptsdesigndetailsgallery-nucleusgenerationgod-of-war-3god-of-war-iiihdkratosMon, 29 Mar 2010 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation Store expands, offers HD movies for purchase]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/09/playstation-store-expands-offers-hd-movies-for-purchase/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/09/playstation-store-expands-offers-hd-movies-for-purchase/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/09/playstation-store-expands-offers-hd-movies-for-purchase/#comments Don't want to wait for a Blu-ray disc from Netflix? Wish you could watch an HD program instantly (provided your internet connection is robust enough)? The PlayStation Store will be updated today with HD movies for purchase from all six major studios. Previously, movies for purchase were relegated to SD options, whilst HD movies were available exclusively for rent. According to a press release from SCEA, "PlayStation Network is the first to offer high definition movies for purchase from all of the major movie studios," including 20th Century Fox, Walt Disney, Paramount, Sony Pictures, Universal, and Warner Bros.

The HD update will be available today on the PlayStation Store in the US, with "plans to launch soon in the U.K., France, Germany, and Spain." (Sorry, Canada!) While we still prefer owning Blu-ray discs, this downloadable option is yet another way for people to access content.

JoystiqPlayStation Store expands, offers HD movies for purchase originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Mar 2010 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>disneyfoxhdparamountplaystation-networkplaystation-storepsnsony-picturesuniversalwarner-brosTue, 09 Mar 2010 17:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix promotes Wii streaming with 'underwhelming' HD argument]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/netflix-promotes-wii-streaming-with-underwhelming-hd-argument/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/netflix-promotes-wii-streaming-with-underwhelming-hd-argument/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/netflix-promotes-wii-streaming-with-underwhelming-hd-argument/#comments If you've been following the Wii Netflix saga, you're probably familiar with Nintendo's stance on HD movie streaming. The company's Reggie Fils-Aimé recently went on record saying that the average Wii user won't care about the Wii's inability to push HD Netflix. That's expected though, right? He works for Nintendo, after all. But get this, now Netflix itself is deemphasizing its own HD streaming service.

Speaking to TheWiire.com, Netflix VP of Corporate Communications Steve Swasey recognized that the Wii can't handle HD streaming, but stated that Netflix doesn't believe that to be a problem for Wii households. Swasey noted that only 1 in 17 titles are available in HD, adding that HD content is only 720p -- not 1080p -- and that it's not available with 5.1 surround sound. "The HD experience at Netflix Instant Watching isn't that overwhelming," said Swasey, adding, "It's a little bit underwhelming."

So there you have it. There's absolutely no reason for anyone to even want HD streaming. Ever. Now go order your Wii Netflix disc.

JoystiqNetflix promotes Wii streaming with 'underwhelming' HD argument originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hdnetflixnintendostreaming-videoWiiTue, 09 Feb 2010 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XIII producers: Traditional RPG towns are tough to do in HD]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/05/final-fantasy-xiii-producers-traditional-rpg-towns-are-tough-to/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/05/final-fantasy-xiii-producers-traditional-rpg-towns-are-tough-to/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/05/final-fantasy-xiii-producers-traditional-rpg-towns-are-tough-to/#comments Lots of fans think it would be great to see the classic Final Fantasy VII remade in full HD glory on a platform like the PS3, but Final Fantasy XIII producers Yoshinori Kitase and Motomu Toriyama say it would be really tough to do. In a recent interview with Ultimania, they say that the limit isn't the HD technology, it's the amount of artisanship. "Considering the amount of work to make graphics that deserve HD, it is hard to make towns in the conventional style," said Toriyama. FFVII's graphics were beautiful at the time, but when you consider that we all played them on a 4:3 TV SD screen rather than the 1080p HD behemoths we're all playing games on today, you realize that it's a lot more work for artists to put in to make the game look as epic as Final Fantasy should. That's one reason why FFXIII doesn't have conventional RPG towns.

Kitase agrees, saying that "it is very hard to make games on PlayStation 3 in the same style the games in that era had. Making graphics will take enormous time." So score one for standard definition and the limits of the old pre-HD consoles. Note that neither producer says it's impossible, just a lot of work. So maybe some enterprising young developer will come along and make a solid, HD JRPG in the old-school fashion.

JoystiqFinal Fantasy XIII producers: Traditional RPG towns are tough to do in HD originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 05 Feb 2010 23:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artisanshipfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-viifinal-fantasy-xiiihdjrpgmotomu-toriyamastandardtownsyoshinori-kitaseFri, 05 Feb 2010 23:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Zombieland Blu-ray includes dynamic theme for PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/26/zombieland-blu-ray-includes-dynamic-theme-for-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/26/zombieland-blu-ray-includes-dynamic-theme-for-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/26/zombieland-blu-ray-includes-dynamic-theme-for-ps3/#comments Nine out of ten film experts agree that Zombieland was the best movie to come out last year, and expect it to make a strong showing at the Academy Awards. It should already be a no-brainer that you're going to purchase the film when it's released next Tuesday, Feb. 2 -- however, the Blu-ray version of Zombieland includes an unadvertised bonus that might influence you to drop the extra cash for the HD iteration.

According to High Def Digest, if you pop the Zombieland Blu-ray into your PS3, you'll have the option to download a dynamic theme based on the film through the XMB's Game tab. The theme turns the browser's icons red, and changes the background into a rotating gallery of promotional art for the movie. It sounds like a really neat feature -- one that might influence us to purchase more Blu-rays should it become more popular.

JoystiqZombieland Blu-ray includes dynamic theme for PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Jan 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backgroundblu-raydynamic-themehdmoviethemezombielandzombiesTue, 26 Jan 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Reggie: Wii users don't care about HD Netflix streaming]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/14/reggie-wii-users-dont-care-about-hd-netflix-streaming/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/14/reggie-wii-users-dont-care-about-hd-netflix-streaming/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/14/reggie-wii-users-dont-care-about-hd-netflix-streaming/#comments
 As spotted by Siliconera, Nintendo of America boss Reggie Fils-Aimé recently told CNBC that users streaming Netflix through the Wii aren't going to miss the HD content they won't be able to access -- free content that's available through other devices. He justified that claim with a simple argument: "over 26 million consumers have bought a Wii. The consumer is saying, for them, the quality of the visual is not nearly as important as the overall entertainment."

It may irritate 360 and PS3 proponents to no end to hear him lay it out that plainly, but we're having a hard time finding a flaw in Reggie's logic.

JoystiqReggie: Wii users don't care about HD Netflix streaming originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Jan 2010 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hdnetflixnintendoReggie-Fils-AimestreamingWiiThu, 14 Jan 2010 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[See screens and video from Perfect Dark on XBLA]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/28/see-screens-and-video-from-perfect-dark-on-xbla/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/28/see-screens-and-video-from-perfect-dark-on-xbla/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/28/see-screens-and-video-from-perfect-dark-on-xbla/#comments We've all seen screens here and there from Rare's upcoming high def-ified Perfect Dark port for XBLA. Today, we're happy to report there's a whole bunch of new media out there to sift through, courtesy of Gamertag Radio.

Head past the break for video of Perfect Dark's Carrington Institute level or, if you're one who worries about a sudden outbreak of motion sickness, check out some stills from the game over on GTR's flickr page. Perfect Dark is currently scheduled for a "Winter 2010" release.

Source - Screens from Perfect Dark
Source - Carrington Institute level video

Continue reading See screens and video from Perfect Dark on XBLA

JoystiqSee screens and video from Perfect Dark on XBLA originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Dec 2009 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fpshdperfect-darkrarescreensvideoxblaxbox-live-arcadeMon, 28 Dec 2009 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Reggie denies the existence of Wii HD]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/06/reggie-denies-the-existence-of-wii-hd/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/06/reggie-denies-the-existence-of-wii-hd/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/06/reggie-denies-the-existence-of-wii-hd/#comments Though plenty of people -- analyst Michael Pachter chief among them -- are pretty certain that an HD version of the Wii is in the pipeline, you're not going to catch Nintendo's Reggie Fils-Amie copping to it. Speaking with Geoff Keighley on Gametrailers TV, the Regginator said, "Michael continues to be the only one who believes that this is gonna happen. I don't know how forcefully we can say there is no Wii HD."

It certainly sounds like a firm refusal, but let's all try to remember that the shelf life of a Nintendo denial is exactly 10 days.

JoystiqReggie denies the existence of Wii HD originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hdhigh-definitionmichael-pachterNintendoreggie-fils-aimeWiiwii-hdFri, 06 Nov 2009 10:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo might be considering hybrid HD/SD console]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/05/nintendo-might-be-considering-hybrid-hd-sd-console/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/05/nintendo-might-be-considering-hybrid-hd-sd-console/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/05/nintendo-might-be-considering-hybrid-hd-sd-console/#commentsIn a voluminous response to an investor question about moving to support high-definition output, Nintendo executives laid out their current thoughts on how and when to make such a move in their consoles. Of course, these thoughts shouldn't be taken as a definite indicator of Nintendo's plans, but they might suggest where the company could be headed in the next generation. And if these statements do reflect future events, Nintendo's next console will be HD-capable, but won't require that standard for every game.

Genyo Takeda, GM of Nintendo's Integrated Research & Development Division, said that "moving to HD appears to me a natural flow" given the adoption of HD by television programming. "If we can find out the most appropriate medium, between SD and HD, and flexibly move around them depending on the game's contents, it will be good, I think," he suggested. Shigeru Miyamoto agreed, noting that HD wasn't the most important consideration for something like Wii Fit. "Won't HD be better for the games like Pikmin? The developers should choose the most appropriate graphical format depending on the software they make."

JoystiqNintendo might be considering hybrid HD/SD console originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 16:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>designdevelopmentgenyo-takedahardwarehdhigh-definitionmiyamotoNintendoresearchsdshigeru-miyamotostandard-definitionWiiThu, 05 Nov 2009 16:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft lifts Xbox 360 minimum 720p, anti-aliasing mandate for devs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/02/microsoft-lifts-xbox-360-minimum-720p-anti-aliasing-mandate-for/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/02/microsoft-lifts-xbox-360-minimum-720p-anti-aliasing-mandate-for/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/02/microsoft-lifts-xbox-360-minimum-720p-anti-aliasing-mandate-for/#comments In a column published today on Develop, Black Rock Studio (Pure, Split/Second) technical director David Jeffrries revealed that Microsoft has removed an item from its TCRs (Technical Certification Requirements) that stated all Xbox 360 games must run at a minimum of 1280x720 (720p) resolution if the system is in HD mode. According to Jeffries, this was done earlier this year so that developers could be "free to make the trade-off between resolution and image quality as we see fit."

TCRs are technical "rules" that all games developed for a given platform must adhere to in order to be certified for release. Of course, some games that have skirted this specific TCR have still been allowed on the system; the most notable being Microsoft's own Halo 3, which runs at 1152x640 (progressive).

Joystiq has confirmed with a trusted source familiar with Microsoft's TCRs that Jeffries' claim is legit. Not only that, but, as of March 2009, Xbox 360 developers are no longer required to utilize full-screen anti-aliasing in their games. The elimination of both requirements is especially noteworthy since the console maker had touted that all 360 games would run at a minimum of 720p with at least 2x FSAA since before the hardware launched.

As Jeffries points out in his column, 1280x720 isn't necessarily the "starting point" for HD on many displays and that it's not nearly as crucial as anti-aliasing. It's not clear if the back-tracking on Microsoft's part was due to pressure from the development community or not, but we can probably all agree that, as long as a game looks great, it doesn't really matter how its creators got there. Does it?

JoystiqMicrosoft lifts Xbox 360 minimum 720p, anti-aliasing mandate for devs originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 18:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>720panti-aliasingantialiasinghardwarehdmicrosofttcrtechnical-certification-requirementsXbox-360Wed, 02 Sep 2009 18:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Blu-ray God of War changes are minimal, doubles up on trophies]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/02/blu-ray-god-of-war-changes-are-minimal-doubles-up-on-trophies/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/02/blu-ray-god-of-war-changes-are-minimal-doubles-up-on-trophies/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/02/blu-ray-god-of-war-changes-are-minimal-doubles-up-on-trophies/#comments
Here's today's enormous, shocking revelation: The recently announced Blu-ray God of War collection is going to be a whole heck of a lot like its PS2-based counterparts. Aside from a 720p visual boost and perhaps the addition of an HD-friendly HUD and font, the rest of the re-released games will "be the pure experience, what people would have played when they played God of War originally," according to a recent IGN interview with Sony Santa Monica's director of product development, John Hight.

If you're put off by the lack of new features, perhaps your raging Trophy addiction will be cause enough to purchase the Blu-ray collection. Hight confirmed that the two games both contain their own unique sets of trophies, adding that there would "probably" be two prestigious Platinum trophies available for hardcore completionists. We shudder to imagine the amount of dismemberment required to obtain these merits. This is us shuddering.

JoystiqBlu-ray God of War changes are minimal, doubles up on trophies originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blu-raycollectiongod-of-wargod-of-war-2hdkratosre-releasesonyWed, 02 Sep 2009 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Ghostbusters PS3 patch is close to 720p, but no cigar]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/31/ghostbusters-ps3-patch-is-close-to-720p-but-no-cigar/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/31/ghostbusters-ps3-patch-is-close-to-720p-but-no-cigar/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/31/ghostbusters-ps3-patch-is-close-to-720p-but-no-cigar/#comments We were moved -- genuinely moved! -- by Terminal Reality's efforts to improve the lackluster visual quality of the PS3 version of Ghostbusters with a recent patch. However, while the implementation of multi-sampling anti-aliasing and a slight bump of resolution make the PS3 title look prettier than its launch iteration, a recent Digital Foundry comparison came to a startling conclusion. Even post-patch, the game fails to deliver on its promise of 720p resolution or equality with the 360 version of Ghostbusters.

The Eurogamer-hosted blog has a few enormous image comparisons for the pixel-counters among you. We're not experts on visual fidelity (What's an alias? Why must it be anti'ed?) but we do know that we are owed. Does one penny per missing pixel sound fair to you?

JoystiqGhostbusters PS3 patch is close to 720p, but no cigar originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 31 Aug 2009 13:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActionatariDSGhostbustersGhostbusters-The-Video-GamegraphicshdMicrosoftNintendopatchpixelsRed-FlyRed-Fly-StudiosTerminal-RealityvisualsWiiXbox-360Zen-StudiosMon, 31 Aug 2009 13:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft: Dropping HDMI cable gives Xbox 360 consumers 'flexibility']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/27/microsoft-dropping-hdmi-cable-gives-xbox-360-consumers-flexibi/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/27/microsoft-dropping-hdmi-cable-gives-xbox-360-consumers-flexibi/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/27/microsoft-dropping-hdmi-cable-gives-xbox-360-consumers-flexibi/#comments Microsoft's VP of Interactive Entertainment Business in Europe, Chris Lewis, tells GI.biz that the removal of the HDMI cable from the Elite packaging was to enable more "flexibility to consumers who can then decide which type of cable they want for their specific gaming and TV screen set-up." Pardon us, but that's like saying Sub-Zero ripping out your spine gives your body more "flexibility." Of course, the drawback is that you're dead.

Adding insult to injury, the new Elite bundle isn't just shipping sans HDMI cable, it has no HD cables at all; meaning that consumers now have even more flexibility to purchase better cables. While any old HDMI cable will do (they're cheap too!), the Xbox 360 component cable is proprietary and priced at $40 (as is the VGA cable). Want optical audio with your HDMI? That adapter's proprietary, too -- and $50. In fairness, PS3s don't ship with HD cables either (they do have an optical audio port, though), and that's always been a joke -- a joke that Microsoft is now in on.

Gallery: Xbox 360 Elite / Arcade Bundles (August 2009)

JoystiqMicrosoft: Dropping HDMI cable gives Xbox 360 consumers 'flexibility' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 27 Aug 2009 12:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesscableshdhdmihdtvmicrosoftXbox-360xbox-360-eliteThu, 27 Aug 2009 12:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Analyst: Next console cycle isn't coming until 2013]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/02/analyst-next-console-cycle-isnt-coming-until-2013/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/02/analyst-next-console-cycle-isnt-coming-until-2013/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/02/analyst-next-console-cycle-isnt-coming-until-2013/#comments
Compared to last Spring's outlandish software sales figures (fueled by the release of Super Smash Bros. Brawl and GTA IV), this year's stats aren't inspiring much confidence in gaming industry investors. In fact, many are anxiously awaiting the launch of new hardware to provide a quick sales boost -- but according to industry analyst Michael Pachter, they shouldn't hold their breath: By his estimation, new hardware won't be hitting store shelves until at least 2013.

Pachter said that publishers would be hesitant to adopt new hardware considering their investments in the current console cycle have yet to adequately pay off. There's one exception -- Pachter expects the oft-rumored high-definition Wii may appear some time in 2010.

JoystiqAnalyst: Next console cycle isn't coming until 2013 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 02 May 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>console-cyclehardwarehdNintendopachtersalesspringWiiSat, 02 May 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Vuze brings HD video streaming to Xbox 360 & PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/23/vuze-brings-hd-video-streaming-to-xbox-360-and-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/23/vuze-brings-hd-video-streaming-to-xbox-360-and-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/23/vuze-brings-hd-video-streaming-to-xbox-360-and-ps3/#comments Vuze got a big update today. Version 4.2 of the torrent client/online video portal service now allows live video streaming to game consoles Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3. The software acts as a media server and can directly transfer High Def content (music vids, the latest movie trailers and television episodes) free of charge to consoles on the same network.

Streaming to consoles isn't anything new, but it certainly hasn't been made this easy -- just simply drag-and-drop the video poised for streaming into Vuze's "Devices" tab and you're set. Vuze will automatically convert file formats if it detects that the original file can't be played on the receiving device. Oh, and the fact that it is completely free should be reason enough to try it out.

[Via Engadget]

JoystiqVuze brings HD video streaming to Xbox 360 & PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Mar 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hdnetworkstreaming-videovuzeMon, 23 Mar 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Miyamoto: We're not 'soft on graphics']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/10/miyamoto-were-not-soft-on-graphics/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/10/miyamoto-were-not-soft-on-graphics/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/10/miyamoto-were-not-soft-on-graphics/#commentsFiled under: ,

During a recent interview, Nintendo's Shigeru Miyamoto was quick to stick up for Nintendo's latest console and its graphical capabilities. It's one of the most criticized points of the console, as you're well aware, but Miyamoto thinks it's more than capable of getting the job done, stating that "When it comes to specific points such as generating high definition graphics we might appear to be rather relaxed and soft on graphics," further adding "the fact of the matter is that Wii is capable enough to cater to the needs of these hardcore gamers in terms of gameplay content as well as the graphical content, so I really don't want people to be concerned about that kind of attitude."

When asked about a new version of Wii with HD, Miyamoto wanted everyone to know that Nintendo isn't behind the times. "the fact of the matter is that technology is evolving all the time and in Japan, for example in the year 2010 all the analogue broadcast will be stopped and shifted into the digital broadcasting. So many things are taking place and we are working in terms of the changes of the technologies all the time." So, Nintendo isn't totally out of touch, and we could see a HD version of Wii release, but will we? "I'm afraid we cannot confirm what we are doing today."

Of course, Miyamoto.

[Via CVG]

JoystiqMiyamoto: We're not 'soft on graphics' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Nov 2008 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>graphicshdhigh-definitionmiyamotoshigeru-miyamotowii-hdwiihdMon, 10 Nov 2008 15:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Pachter 'absolutely convinced' Wii HD is coming]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/07/pachter-absolutely-convinced-wii-hd-is-coming/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/07/pachter-absolutely-convinced-wii-hd-is-coming/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/07/pachter-absolutely-convinced-wii-hd-is-coming/#commentsFiled under:

Wedbush Morgan analyst Michael Pachter believes that Nintendo is preparing the duct tape for a new Wii that will feature high-definition visuals. Speaking in an AFP piece about Wii's bid to appeal to "hardcore" gamers, Pachter insisted that Nintendo needs to overcome the technical gulf that exists between its console and those of rivals.

"A Wii HD would really position Nintendo well, which is why I'm absolutely convinced there is a Wii HD coming," stated Pachter, who thinks the console needs to shed its "toy for my mom" image. Ouch. If you're currently experiencing déjà vu, that's probably because Pachter made this exact same prediction more than a year ago, when he estimated a Wii upgrade to be "two to three years" away.

For the record, we non-analysts at Wii Fanboy still think that's too soon for an upgraded version of a system that continues to fly off shelves -- and developers seem to agree.

[Via videogaming247]

JoystiqPachter 'absolutely convinced' Wii HD is coming originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 Oct 2008 16:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analysthdmichael-pachterpachterwii-hdTue, 07 Oct 2008 16:25:00 EST<![CDATA[SNK considering Metal Slug HD makeover]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/18/snk-considering-metal-slug-hd-makeover/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/18/snk-considering-metal-slug-hd-makeover/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/18/snk-considering-metal-slug-hd-makeover/#commentsFiled under: , ,


SNK may soon be trading in its "rocket lawncher" for a high-def upgrade, as IGN reports that the company is considering bringing an HD version of Metal Slug to consoles. If true, the move would echo recent efforts by the company, such as with the forthcoming The King of Fighters XII, to abandon stale sprites for delicious eye candy.

Nothing else is known of SNK's future plans for the franchise, and considering that the company merely looks forward to announcing something "someday soon," we are not holding our breath just yet. However, fans itching for a retro fix can pick up Metal Slug 7 when it rolls on to the DS in November.

JoystiqSNK considering Metal Slug HD makeover originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 18 Sep 2008 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hdhigh-defhigh-definitionhighdefinitionmetal-slugmetalslugsnksnk-playmoresnkplaymoreThu, 18 Sep 2008 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[PSN's video content is "open for business to all studios" tonight]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/psns-video-content-is-open-for-business-to-all-studios/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/psns-video-content-is-open-for-business-to-all-studios/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/psns-video-content-is-open-for-business-to-all-studios/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Sony has announced that they are willing to carry all studios' video content on their PSN video delivery service -- they'll be hosting standard and high definition videos from anyone who wants to sell them. Video will be available for both sale and rental, and will be portable -- you'll be able to buy it on a PS3, download it to the PSP, and have it live on both devices at the same time.

Prices are said to be $2.99 for an SD rental, and $5.99 for an HD download. Purchase price is $14.99 for SD movies, and it's unclear yet whether HD content will be sold for purchase. The video store will look much like the game store, and will be available tonight on PSN.

JoystiqPSN's video content is "open for business to all studios" tonight originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Jul 2008 15:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingE3e3-2008hdjoystiqfeaturesPS3psnPSPsdsoesonyvideoTue, 15 Jul 2008 15:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Haze says no to HD, yes to HDD]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/19/haze-says-no-to-hd-yes-to-hdd/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/19/haze-says-no-to-hd-yes-to-hdd/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/19/haze-says-no-to-hd-yes-to-hdd/#commentsFiled under: ,


Free Radical has confirmed that ambiguously exclusive PlayStation 3 shooter, Haze, will not be the source of standard, high-definition visuals. Speaking to Ripten, Creative Lead Derek Littlewood explained that, much like other sub-HD games, the 1024x576 resolution was chosen to ensure "a nice smooth framerate." Says Littlewood: "Well, as you develop an engine you're aiming for a certain thing, but as all the pieces slot into place, you end up realising what sort of resolution you can run it at and that's where we ended up with for Haze."

Though the PlayStation 3 will upscale 576p images to 720p (1280x720), it's unlikely to provide Free Radical's penance in the eagle eyes of pixel-counting pedants. With any luck, people will be too busy complaining about geebees to notice the lack of pees, as Ubisoft also confirmed that Haze will require a 4GB installation. Look forward to discussions involving the game's more obscure features (gameplay, story, blah blah blah) once it's out on May 20.

[Via Eurogamer]

Read -- Not very many Ps
Read -- Too many GBs

JoystiqHaze says no to HD, yes to HDD originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 May 2008 12:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>FPSFree-RadicalHazeHDInstallMolehillMountainPS3ResolutionUbisoftMon, 19 May 2008 12:25:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 Grand Theft Auto IV is 640p, nobody cares]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/30/ps3-grand-theft-auto-iv-is-640p-nobody-cares/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/30/ps3-grand-theft-auto-iv-is-640p-nobody-cares/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/30/ps3-grand-theft-auto-iv-is-640p-nobody-cares/#commentsFiled under: , ,


As a news blog it's kind of our job to bring you tidbits like this, but it doesn't make it any more tantalizing, especially when we know the maelstrom of dumb things like this can cause. But here it goes: Thanks to the denizens of this forum thread, we now know that the PS3 version of Grand Theft Auto IV runs at 640p, as compared to the Xbox 360's 720p *ducks*.

Before you start hunting for your fancy pitchfork, let us remind you that until 17 seconds ago this problem didn't bother you at all. And because of some of the processing effects, some people even insist that the PS3 version looks better to them! But hey, if you need something to get angry about, far be it from us to take that from you.

[Via PS3F]

JoystiqPS3 Grand Theft Auto IV is 640p, nobody cares originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 Apr 2008 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>grand-theft-auto-ivgtaivhdps3resolutionXbox-360Wed, 30 Apr 2008 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[XBLA size limit no longer a problem for SF2HD]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/13/xbla-size-limit-no-longer-a-problem-for-sf2hd/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/13/xbla-size-limit-no-longer-a-problem-for-sf2hd/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/13/xbla-size-limit-no-longer-a-problem-for-sf2hd/#commentsFiled under: ,

What a difference a few weeks make. Back in January, designer Dave Sirlin was complaining about how Microsoft's 150MB size limit for XBLA games was making it hard to squeeze everything Capcom wanted into Super Street Fighter II Turbo HD Remix. Now, it turns out, it's not such a problem after all.

In a blog post today, Producer Ray Jiminez officially confirmed "the filesize will not be an issue" because of some "great help from the guys at Microsoft." It's not quite clear whether the size limit was waived or whether Microsoft just helped squeeze those files in there, but regardless, Jiminez promises the gameplay experience will be identical in both the Xbox and PS3 versions of the game.

The full post also has way more details than you could possibly want about the vagaries of hand-drawn HD art. Check it out if you're into that sort of thing.

JoystiqXBLA size limit no longer a problem for SF2HD originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 Mar 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomHDsf2ssf2hdstreet-fighter-2super-street-fighter-2-turbo-=hd-remixXbox-360Thu, 13 Mar 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq hands-on: Street Fighter II HD (XBLA/PSN)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/13/joystiq-hands-on-street-fighter-ii-hd-xbla-psn/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/13/joystiq-hands-on-street-fighter-ii-hd-xbla-psn/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/13/joystiq-hands-on-street-fighter-ii-hd-xbla-psn/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


I'm not a Street Fighter fanatic, but I've enjoyed the series over the years. So with this casual approach, I recently tried the XBLA beta of Super Street Fighter II Turbo HD Remix, available soon to buyers of Commando 3 on XBLA. The full version will be out this Summer for that system and PSN.

Frankly, I don't even remember which character I played. It doesn't help that my only choices were Ken and Ryu, who have nearly the same moves. My helpful opponent reminded me how to do some of the special attacks; I was far out of practice on the Hurricane Kick, but I could throw fireballs right away.

Gallery: Super Street Fighter II Turbo HD Remix

Continue reading Joystiq hands-on: Street Fighter II HD (XBLA/PSN)

JoystiqJoystiq hands-on: Street Fighter II HD (XBLA/PSN) originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 Mar 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1080pbackbone-entertainmentcapcomclassicfightinghdhyper-fightingonlinePS3psnremakestreet-fighterstreet-fighter-hdstreet-fighter-remixsuper-street-fighter-ii-turbo-hd-remixxblaXbox-360Thu, 13 Mar 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Xbox 360 Blu-ray player could be out by May]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/18/rumor-xbox-360-blu-ray-player-could-be-out-by-may/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/18/rumor-xbox-360-blu-ray-player-could-be-out-by-may/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/18/rumor-xbox-360-blu-ray-player-could-be-out-by-may/#commentsFiled under: ,

We've heard over and over and over how a Blu-ray movie player add-on for the Xbox 360 was a distinct possibility if the HD DVD format ended up losing out. Well, now that the Microsoft-supported format seems just one step away from dead, we're hearing rumblings of just how possible that Blu-ray player possibility is.

Citing "insiders at Microsoft in the USA," Australia's Smarthouse says Microsoft's Blu-ray add-on is already fully designed, and could be on the market within three months, "subject to internal marketing and sales approvals." Smarthouse also repeated the rumors of a built-in high-def drive for the system, although now that rumored drive plays Blu-ray discs instead of an HD DVDs. Regardless, the tech site seems to think Microsoft will focus on digital movie downloads for those who don't want an add-on.

As for Sony, they couldn't be happier that Microsoft is considering jumping over to the "winning" side of this HD disc battle. "We would welcome Microsoft to the Blu-ray stable," SCE Managing Director Michael Ephraim told Smarthouse. "In fact it is quite logical for them as the PS3 has been very successful in driving consumers to Blu-ray. In fact we believe that it has done more to win the format war than traditional Blu-ray player." Hey, they just won a format war ... they can afford to be a little smug.

[Via Megatonik]

JoystiqRumor: Xbox 360 Blu-ray player could be out by May originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Feb 2008 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blu-rayformat warsFormatWarsHDHD-DVDhigh-defmoviemoviesPS3Xbox-360Mon, 18 Feb 2008 09:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Blu-ray movie releases for the week of Feb. 17]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/17/blu-ray-movie-releases-for-the-week-of-feb-17/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/17/blu-ray-movie-releases-for-the-week-of-feb-17/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/17/blu-ray-movie-releases-for-the-week-of-feb-17/#commentsFiled under: ,

So, with Blu-ray finally the winner of the HD race, you'd think there'd be a huge celebration with tons of great releases this week, right? Well, not so much, unless you're a big fan of watching music on TV, that is.
However, Blu-ray owners may be interested in Michael Clayton or Run Lola Run. Both seem like they could be interesting pick ups. On the brighter side, if these movies don't interest you this week, just rest in assurance that there will be some really great releases the following week and in to March.

JoystiqBlu-ray movie releases for the week of Feb. 17 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 17 Feb 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blu-rayhdmoviesnew-releasesSun, 17 Feb 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Toshiba set to kill off HD DVD format]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/15/rumor-toshiba-set-to-kill-off-hd-dvd-format/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/15/rumor-toshiba-set-to-kill-off-hd-dvd-format/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/15/rumor-toshiba-set-to-kill-off-hd-dvd-format/#commentsFiled under: ,

While the writing has been on the wall as far as HD DVD is concerned for a some time now, today's Hollywood Reporter story takes that writing, highlights it in thick black ink, and draws some big red arrows pointing towards it. Citing "reliable industry sources," the entertainment newspaper predicts Toshiba will officially stop supporting the high-definition movie format "sometime in the coming weeks."

If true, the move would somewhat validate Sony's costly decision to integrate Blu-ray technology into the PS3, and would give Sony a rather large stake in the future of the lucrative HD home movie market. While the death of HD DVD would obviously be a blow to Microsoft's external HD DVD drive (and everyone who bought it), Microsoft has said again and again they are open to the idea of a Blu-ray attachment if and when that format wins out. Which, at this point, seems like only a matter of time ...

[Via Engadget]

JoystiqRumor: Toshiba set to kill off HD DVD format originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Feb 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Blu-rayconsole-warsformatformat-warsHDHD-DVDhigh-defmoviemovie-warsPS3Xbox-360Fri, 15 Feb 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[XBLA size limit causing difficulties for Street Fighter HD]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/30/xbla-size-limit-causing-problems-for-sf2hd/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/30/xbla-size-limit-causing-problems-for-sf2hd/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/30/xbla-size-limit-causing-problems-for-sf2hd/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Oh, Microsoft. When will you learn that downloadable games are sometimes going to want to be bigger than a memory unit. First, Castlevania: Symphony of the Night bumped up against the then-50MB limit for XBLA games, leading to a ceiling raise. Then promising platformer Eternity's Child got chased to the Wii when it ran up against the new 150MB limit. Now, anticipated HD remake of Street Fighter II is apparently having trouble squeezing all its high-res graphics and remixed music into the imposed size limit.

Speaking to VideoGamer.com, director David Sirlin said that it was "difficult to store so many 1080p graphics in such a small download size." According to Sirlin, the 150MB limit "also makes it difficult or impossible to include all the original game's music AND [an] all remixed set of music."

Xbox-owning fighting fans shouldn't lose hope, though -- Sirlin says his team is "still doing our best to fit within the limit we've been given." Still, we have to wonder why they should have to go through the aggravation at all. To satisfy the three hardcore fighting fans that own a 360 but not a hard drive? Don't punish the many for the questionable purchasing decisions of the few, Microsoft.

JoystiqXBLA size limit causing difficulties for Street Fighter HD originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 Jan 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>150MBcapcomdavid-sirlindownloadHDmicrosoftsizesize-limitssf2hdsstf2thdrstreet-fighter-2XBLAXbox-360Wed, 30 Jan 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Japan <3s Blu-ray]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/21/japan-3s-blu-ray/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/21/japan-3s-blu-ray/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/21/japan-3s-blu-ray/#commentsFiled under:

We've been hearing a lot about various Blu-ray vs HD DVD sales figures from the US and Europe over the last year or so, but Japan has been strangely quiet when it comes picking their favorite format for adoption. Until now, that is. At the end of 2007 sales for High-Definition discs and players skyrocketed in the region and, in particular, for Blu-ray.

High definition players made up 35% of the total value of DVD player sales during the three month period. Of that, 90% of HD player sales were Blu-ray. Keep in mind that this doesn't factor in PS3 sales and took place before Warner's big bombshell earlier this month. The Japanese have been voting with their wallets and it seems they're backing Blu.

JoystiqJapan <3s Blu-ray originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 Jan 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blu-rayHDhigh-definitionMon, 21 Jan 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Don't even trip, Financial Times -- Paramount is sticking with HD-DVD]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/13/dont-even-trip-financial-times-paramount-is-sticking-with-h/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/13/dont-even-trip-financial-times-paramount-is-sticking-with-h/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/13/dont-even-trip-financial-times-paramount-is-sticking-with-h/#commentsFiled under: ,


If you just bought an HD-DVD player attachment for your Xbox 360, don't feel completely discouraged about the recent movements in the home entertainment industry. While it definitely seems as though Blu-ray has soundly won the format war, Viacom Inc. owned Paramount Studios recently issued a statement saying they would continue producing HD-DVD movies.

The statement was a correction to a recent Financial Times article saying that the company was following in the footsteps of Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc., and adopting Blu-ray as their sole HD format. Following a brief plunge in the stocks of Toshiba (the company most invested in HD-DVD technology), Paramount issued a statement pledging their allegiance to the format less blue. Looks like it's time to hunker down for the long haul, people -- it might be a while before the clear victor for the Battle of the Formats is decided.

JoystiqDon't even trip, Financial Times -- Paramount is sticking with HD-DVD originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 13 Jan 2008 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blu-rayblurayformatHDhd-dvdhddvdtoshibaSun, 13 Jan 2008 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Call of Duty 4 not HD: only 600p, claim pixel counters [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/22/call-of-duty-4-not-hd-only-600p-claim-pixel-counters/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/22/call-of-duty-4-not-hd-only-600p-claim-pixel-counters/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/22/call-of-duty-4-not-hd-only-600p-claim-pixel-counters/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The pixel counters strike again! Having already conquered Halo 3 by proving the flagship shooter was 80 pixels below HD (defined here as at least 1280x720), the Beyond 3D forum members are now claiming Call of Duty 4 is only 600p (1024x600 resolution = 614,400 pixels) for both the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 versions - that's 120 pixels 307,200 pixels that have gone AWOL.

The Beyond 3D posters have proven their dedication to pixel counting before with Halo 3, but since we haven't counted ourselves or seen the visual proof prevalent during Halo-gate, we're welcome to be proven wrong.

Update: The tryptophan is starting to affect our ability to calculate. The difference between 600p and 720p (1280x720 = 921,600) is 307,200 pixels - which happens to be the exact number of pixels contained within 640x480 resolution.

[Via X3F]

JoystiqCall of Duty 4 not HD: only 600p, claim pixel counters [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 22 Nov 2007 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>600pcall-of-dutycall-of-duty-4cod4hdhi-definfinity-wardPS3Xbox-360Thu, 22 Nov 2007 09:01:00 EST