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[TIGA: 71% of UK startups focused on digital distribution]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/06/tiga-71-of-uk-startups-focused-on-digital-distribution/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/06/tiga-71-of-uk-startups-focused-on-digital-distribution/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/06/tiga-71-of-uk-startups-focused-on-digital-distribution/#comments Digital distribution is the future in the UK -- for the sake of a lot of jobs, it had better be. UK game industry trade organization TIGA issued a new census report today, revealing a heavy focus on downloadable or social games.

71% of UK game company startups between 2008 and 2011 are "focused exclusively on network gaming," the report indicates. Taking all of the UK industry in consideration (not just new companies), 67% work on digitally distributed games.

"For too long developers have laboured under the traditional 'give your IP away, never see royalties' model," said TIGA Self-Publishing Committee Patrick O'Luanaigh. "So TIGA strongly supports the trend towards online gaming and self-publishing. Online gaming can deliver greater company stability and revenue sustainability for studios. This is because studios can circumvent traditional publisher business models and build relationships directly with customers. Network gaming businesses can create original games, retain their IP and attain greater financial stability."

We suspect this boost in digital gaming involves two major factors: the rise of iOS and Android games, and the end of large UK game companies like Bizarre Creations.

Continue reading TIGA: 71% of UK startups focused on digital distribution

JoystiqTIGA: 71% of UK startups focused on digital distribution originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>digital-distributionindustrytigaukMon, 06 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gearbox to move HQ to new $61 million building in Frisco, TX]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/19/gearbox-to-move-hq-to-new-61-million-building-in-frisco-tx/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/19/gearbox-to-move-hq-to-new-61-million-building-in-frisco-tx/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/19/gearbox-to-move-hq-to-new-61-million-building-in-frisco-tx/#comments Randy Pitchford's Gearbox Software (currently working on Borderlands 2) has entered into a lease for a 61,000 square foot space in Dallas, Texas, part of a new $61 million "mixed-use" space called Frisco Square that will also host other businesses, "220 apartments, 50,000 square feet of retail space and an 800-space parking garage," according to the Dallas Business Journal.

The project is scheduled to break ground sometime next year, and will be done in 2013 if things go as planned. At that time, Gearbox is scheduled to move its headquarters from about 15 miles away in Plano, TX to Frisco. A developer for the project says that Gearbox is "the straw stirring the drink" in development, with various other businesses showing interest in space after the initial deal.

That's all fine and good, but we just hope there's a nice penthouse. Duke can't be expected to move in somewhere without a fully-stocked penthouse!

JoystiqGearbox to move HQ to new $61 million building in Frisco, TX originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 19 Nov 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013borderlands-2dallasdallas-texasfriscogearbox-softwarehqindustrymoveplanorandy-pitchfordSat, 19 Nov 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo shares drop 5 percent following TGS showcase]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/13/nintendo-shares-drop-5-percent-following-tgs-showcase/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/13/nintendo-shares-drop-5-percent-following-tgs-showcase/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/13/nintendo-shares-drop-5-percent-following-tgs-showcase/#comments It seems Japanese investors weren't too thrilled by the presentation Nintendo put together for last night's Tokyo Game Show press conference. Despite revealing a new Mario Tennis, another Monster Hunter title, a firmware update and a different 3DS color, Nintendo's share price dropped to ¥12,290 by the end of trading yesterday -- a five percent day-to-day drop which some investors chalk up to a lineup that doesn't compete with the cheaper offerings of iOS and Android titles.

Speaking to Reuters, Ichiyoshi Investment manager Mitsushige Akino said, "Nintendo succeeded by pulling in people who weren't gamers and their needs now are no longer being filled by Nintendo, they are happy playing games on their mobile phones." We suppose Nintendo could combat further losses by making 3DS games cost 99 cents. Whatever they do, they should do it quickly, as Nintendo's stock has fallen 84 percent from its all time high of ¥70,500 in November 2007.

JoystiqNintendo shares drop 5 percent following TGS showcase originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Sep 2011 11:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessdsindustrynintendosharestock-marketstockswiiTue, 13 Sep 2011 11:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft responds to claims of Japanese retailers phasing out 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/microsoft-responds-to-claims-of-japanese-retailers-phasing-out-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/microsoft-responds-to-claims-of-japanese-retailers-phasing-out-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/microsoft-responds-to-claims-of-japanese-retailers-phasing-out-3/#comments In response to troubling reports that Japanese tech retailers had begun reducing the amount of shelf space they're allotting for the Xbox 360, Microsoft Europe's Chris Lewis confirmed the company has no intention of giving up on the market. "No, of course we're not pulling out," Lewis explained in a recent interview with Eurogamer.

Lewis said that the going is somewhat tough overseas. "It's a challenging market. We are up against very strong competition there." He added, "We're very respectful of what Sony and Nintendo do and where they've come from and what they bring," but thinks the Kinect will help penetrate the nation's motion-control-friendly consumer base. Now, if only they could simultaneously reach the giant mech-combat community as well. Oh wait! They totally are.

JoystiqMicrosoft responds to claims of Japanese retailers phasing out 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 18 Aug 2011 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessindustryjapankinectmicrosoftsalesxboxThu, 18 Aug 2011 16:40:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 price cut to $250, 320 GB model goes to $300 [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/16/ps3-price-cut-to-250/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/16/ps3-price-cut-to-250/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/16/ps3-price-cut-to-250/#comments Well, this is certainly surprising. Sony closed out its Gamescom 2011 keynote with the startling announcement that the PlayStation 3 (presumably the standard, 160GB model) has had its price cut across the globe: It's now $249.99 in the U.S., €249.99 in Europe and ¥24,980 in Japan. According to Sony's Andrew House, this new price point is available immediately. As in, right now. This hot second.

The $50 trimming of the system's MSRP comes nearly two years to the day after its original reduction to $299.99. We suppose that goes to show you: If you're planning on purchasing a Sony console, you should probably do so after the Ides of August.

[Update: Sony is rolling our another deal today, according to its official blog: A new Infamous 2 PS3 bundle is now available that includes the game and the 320 GB PS3 for $300.]

JoystiqPS3 price cut to $250, 320 GB model goes to $300 [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 16 Aug 2011 14:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamescom-2011industryplaystationpriceprice-cutps3salessonyTue, 16 Aug 2011 14:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Industry veteran Mark Cerny talks about the hugeness of modern developers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/11/industry-veteran-mark-cerny-talks-about-the-hugeness-of-modern-d/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/11/industry-veteran-mark-cerny-talks-about-the-hugeness-of-modern-d/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/11/industry-veteran-mark-cerny-talks-about-the-hugeness-of-modern-d/#comments Mark Cerny is a game developer with 30 years of experience under his belt, which just so happens to be notched with widely known projects like Marble Madness and Crash Bandicoot. In an interview with Gamasutra, Cerny discusses how the size of game development teams has ballooned in recent years.

He explains that there was more accountability when he developed games by himself, adding, "You couldn't blame upper management who didn't understand you, you couldn't blame the marketing guys who didn't put together the proper marketing campaign."

Cerny says that his role as a part-time mercenary developer becomes less effective when he's hired by hundred-strong teams, and that some games -- namely, Thatgamecompany's Flower -- simply can't be developed by a gargantuan ensemble. "Because you're taking such a curved path on the way to making the final product, you don't want the art staff of 20 just waiting, just building the models, when Jenova is going to have some idea that goes in a completely different direction," Cerny says.

We agree, though we think a larger staff would have allowed for the online deathmatch mode that Flower so, so desperately needed.

JoystiqIndustry veteran Mark Cerny talks about the hugeness of modern developers originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Jul 2011 13:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessFlowerindustrymark-cernyplaystationps3thatgamecompanyMon, 11 Jul 2011 13:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Game retailers go back and forth on Resident Evil: Mercenaries 3D sales policies]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/29/game-retailers-go-back-and-forth-on-resident-evil-mercenaries-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/29/game-retailers-go-back-and-forth-on-resident-evil-mercenaries-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/29/game-retailers-go-back-and-forth-on-resident-evil-mercenaries-3/#comments Used games retailers across the globe have adopted a number of uncharacteristic policies regarding sales and trade-ins of Capcom's one-save-only title, Resident Evil: The Mercenaries 3D. When news of the game's unrestartability first surfaced, North American Gamestops announced they would not accept the game as a trade-in -- a policy which reversed today.

Speaking to IGN, a Gamestop rep explained, "GameStop did ask the U.S. store base to stop accepting trades on Resident Evil: The Mercenaries 3D as we evaluated the save system for the game." The representative added, "Upon further review of the process with our publisher partner, Capcom, GameStop will resume taking trades on the game effective Wednesday, June 29."

Overseas, British retailer HMV has ceased taking trades for the title -- and EB Games Australia has apparently stopped stocking the game altogether. A representative on the EB Games Facebook group explained, "If you would like to purchase it with us then of course we will sell it to you, it will be a case of an order with our store." They added, "We made the tough decision to remove it from sale because we have everybody's best interests in mind, and don't feel its fair that you guys would be paying $60 for what is essentially a one use game."

JoystiqGame retailers go back and forth on Resident Evil: Mercenaries 3D sales policies originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Jun 2011 13:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiacapcomdseb-gamesgamestophmvindustrynintendoresident-evil-the-mercenaries-3dsalesused-gamesWed, 29 Jun 2011 13:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Game developer salaries in 2010 tracked, fills us once more with regret]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/27/game-developer-salaries-in-2010-tracked-fills-us-once-more-with/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/27/game-developer-salaries-in-2010-tracked-fills-us-once-more-with/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/27/game-developer-salaries-in-2010-tracked-fills-us-once-more-with/#comments The Game Developer Research group, somehow sensing that we were having a pretty good day, decided to release a portion of its 10th annual, always soul-crushing Game Developer Salary Survey. The information, according to Gamasutra, is fairly optimistic: Traditional mainstream developers are pulling down an average salary of $80,817, a 7 percent increase over last year's average. Indie developers saw a year-to-year increase of around $6,000, bringing their average wages up to $26,780.

Many of the average wages earned by individual disciplines remained equivalent to last year's totals, with some exceptions. Programmers saw their average salaries increased $5,000 over 2009, to a total of $85,733. Producers' average salaries increased almost $13,000 year-to-year, for an average of $88,544. Quality assurance testers saw their average wages get fairly prodigiously bumped from $37,905 in 2009 up to $49,009 in 2010.

And, of course, the whammy: Business and legal employees made an average salary of $106,452, with 85 percent of survey respondents reporting they received additional compensation. If you need us, we'll be over in the corner, questioning our every life decision.

JoystiqGame developer salaries in 2010 tracked, fills us once more with regret originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Apr 2011 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessgame-developer-researchindustrymoneysalarywagesWed, 27 Apr 2011 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Harmonix says it had to 'carry' MTV's publishing operation]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/23/harmonix-says-it-had-to-carry-mtvs-publishing-operation/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/23/harmonix-says-it-had-to-carry-mtvs-publishing-operation/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/23/harmonix-says-it-had-to-carry-mtvs-publishing-operation/#comments In a recent interview with Industry Gamers, Harmonix VP of Product Development Greg LoPiccolo remarked on the studio's time under the MTV Games banner. Though he explained he harbors no ill will towards the team's former publisher, he said MTV didn't have "a big enough publishing organization to achieve economies of scale." He added, "They had us, but essentially our games had to carry the entire publishing infrastructure of MTV games which was not particularly efficient."

LoPiccolo said he's grateful for the partnership, explaining, "When they bought us we were a little developer and in collaboration with them we achieved a lot." Despite MTV's help in turning them into the studio they are today, LoPiccolo explained he wasn't worried about the two parties' split. "I think one of the things we've demonstrated to the world at large and to ourselves is that we have a demonstrated ability to make good stuff," he added. "And I think we had a confidence that somebody would see that and have that perspective."

JoystiqHarmonix says it had to 'carry' MTV's publishing operation originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 23 Apr 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>harmonixindustrymtvmtv-gamesrhythmRock-Band-3Sat, 23 Apr 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[SouthPeak settles in SEC violation dispute]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/23/southpeak-settles-in-sec-violation-dispute/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/23/southpeak-settles-in-sec-violation-dispute/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/23/southpeak-settles-in-sec-violation-dispute/#comments Two Worlds publisher SouthPeak Interactive ended up in some hot water with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission last November, when the government agency announced it would bring a civil injunction against the publisher's chairman, Terry Phillips. The reason for the SEC suit was SouthPeak's failure to properly document a loan given to the publisher by Phillips in early 2009. Rather than drag out the investigation, SouthPeak decided to settle with the SEC earlier this week on unspecified terms.

SouthPeak CEO Melanie Mroz explained in a statement that the publisher cooperated with the SEC since it brought the investigation before them last year. She added, "In the end, however, it made the most sense for the company and Terry to negotiate an acceptable settlement that does not require us to admit any wrong-doing and close this chapter as we constantly strive to improve our processes, systems and personnel to meet our obligations as a public company."

JoystiqSouthPeak settles in SEC violation dispute originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 23 Apr 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessindustrylawlegalloansecsouthpeaksouthpeak-gamesSat, 23 Apr 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Enterbrain CEO: Earthquake cost the Japanese game industry 7.3 billion yen]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/22/enterbrain-ceo-earthquake-cost-the-japanese-game-industry-7-3-b/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/22/enterbrain-ceo-earthquake-cost-the-japanese-game-industry-7-3-b/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/22/enterbrain-ceo-earthquake-cost-the-japanese-game-industry-7-3-b/#comments If you've kept up with the game delays and cancellations that happened as a result of the catastrophic earthquake which struck Japan last month, you probably understand the extent of its effect on the gaming industry. Enterbrain CEO Hirokazu Hamamura recently put a number on the devastation: At a recent seminar, Hamamura revealed that according to Enterbrain's calculations, the quake caused the domestic games industry to lose ¥7,330 million ($90 million) in potential sales.

That number was divided into ¥4,470 million in lost software sales -- attributed to the delay of Steel Diver, Dead or Alive Dimensions and 29 other titles that were either pushed back or canceled wholesale -- and ¥2,860 million in lost hardware sales. Hamamura ended the seminar with a hopeful message, though, explaining that most of the delayed titles had been pushed back to the first quarter of the new fiscal year, which could prove to be a boon for Japan's gaming industry. We certainly hope that's the case as well.

JoystiqEnterbrain CEO: Earthquake cost the Japanese game industry 7.3 billion yen originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Apr 2011 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Dead-or-Alive-Dimensionsdisaster-reliefenterbrainindustryjapanjapan-earthquakesteel-diverFri, 22 Apr 2011 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSP overtakes 3DS in weekly Japanese hardware sales ranking]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/08/psp-overtakes-3ds-in-weekly-japanese-hardware-sales-ranking/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/08/psp-overtakes-3ds-in-weekly-japanese-hardware-sales-ranking/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/08/psp-overtakes-3ds-in-weekly-japanese-hardware-sales-ranking/#comments The 3DS launched in Japan a little over a month ago, but already, the handheld seems to be losing a bit of steam. The deep-screened device slipped to second place in the weekly Media Create rankings, falling behind the PSP by a margin of about 15,000 units. What's more, according to a report from Japanese news site Inside Games, only around 836,000 3DS units have been sold in Japan so far -- a little over half of the initial Japanese shipment.

The earthquake and tsunami that devastated Japan on March 11 are likely a huge contributing factor to the device's slow start, and could be tied to the lack of a strong post-launch software lineup, which is certainly hurting sales. Only one 3DS title, Namco's Pro Baseball Famista 2011, made it into the Top 10 in software sales for the week of March 28, compared to six PSP games.

JoystiqPSP overtakes 3DS in weekly Japanese hardware sales ranking originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdshardwareindustryjapanmedia-createnintendosalesFri, 08 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GameStop opens digital storefront on Facebook]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/08/gamestop-opens-digital-storefront-on-facebook/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/08/gamestop-opens-digital-storefront-on-facebook/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/08/gamestop-opens-digital-storefront-on-facebook/#comments If you're uncomfortable with GameStop's tenacity as it pursues your reservations and trade-ins, you'll probably be displeased to learn that "pre-order pokes" could be coming in the near future. The gargantuan games retailer recently opened up a Facebook storefront, through which shoppers can purchase and reserve titles, view trailers and screenshot galleries and, in the near future, earn and redeem PowerUp Rewards points.

Between this and GameStop's recent acquisition of Impulse and Spawn Labs, it seems the retailer's taking its new digital strategy pretty seriously. We wouldn't be surprised to see if the company adopted a presence on LiveJournal, as well. We'd be curious to learn what its mood is like on a day-to-day basis, as well as what hot bands it's totally into right now.

JoystiqGameStop opens digital storefront on Facebook originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>facebookgamestopindustrymarketplaceonlinepcpowerup-rewardspre-orderretailFri, 08 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GameStop details U.S. and European console install base]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/gamestop-details-u-s-and-european-console-install-base/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/gamestop-details-u-s-and-european-console-install-base/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/gamestop-details-u-s-and-european-console-install-base/#comments Citing figures obtained by the NPD Group and International Data Group, GameStop included gaming hardware install base statistics for the U.S. and Europe in its latest annual report. According to the data, the U.S. hardware market stood at over 249 million units as of December 2010, with current-generation consoles ranked as follows:
  • Nintendo DS - 47.3 million
  • Nintendo Wii - 34.2 million
  • Xbox 360 - 25.4 million
  • PSP - 19 million
  • PS3 - 15.4 million
In Europe, the total gaming hardware install base is roughly 153 million, according to IDG data from December 2010. The report breaks down that number, too:
  • Nintendo DS - 46 million
  • Nintendo Wii - 24.9 million
  • PSP - 14.8 million
  • PS3 - 14.7 million
  • Xbox 360 - 13.7 million
You guys can probably digest those numbers for yourself, but here's our preliminary take on the data: Man, the Nintendo DS is ballin'.

JoystiqGameStop details U.S. and European console install base originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 31 Mar 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsgamestopindustryinstall-basemicrosoftnintendoplaystationps3pspsalessonywiixboxThu, 31 Mar 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Metacritic drops individual developer ratings for good]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/metacritic-drops-individual-developer-ratings-for-good/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/metacritic-drops-individual-developer-ratings-for-good/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/metacritic-drops-individual-developer-ratings-for-good/#comments Though Metacritic's recent policy of not only applying scores to video games, but also the individual people who created those games, drew some ire from the site's users, we thought it was a masterstroke. Assigning people arbitrary scores based on their past achievements? Seriously, the person who came up with that had to be, like, at least a 93. Sadly, the ratings were short-lived, and in a recent GamesIndustry interview, Metacritic founder Marc Doyle (a known 77) said, "We have no plans to bring it back."

Ultimately, Mr. 77 said the site isn't meant to "fuel some larger discussion over what person is more worthy than some other person." That's actually kind of a nice sentiment, but it's that lack of bloodthirstiness that's keeping Mr. Doyle from breaking into the low 80s.

JoystiqMetacritic drops individual developer ratings for good originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 31 Mar 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>developersindustrymarc-doylemetacriticratingreviewsscoresThu, 31 Mar 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pokemon Black and White sell 2 million in U.S. in first two weeks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/26/pokemon-black-and-white-sell-2-million-in-u-s-in-first-two-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/26/pokemon-black-and-white-sell-2-million-in-u-s-in-first-two-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/26/pokemon-black-and-white-sell-2-million-in-u-s-in-first-two-week/#comments The Pokémon franchise is commonly criticized for refusing to change between generations -- luckily for Nintendo, one of the elements that doesn't seem to change over the years is all the mad, mad money each new installment pulls in. Nintendo of America recently Tweeted to inform its followers Pokémon Black and White have sold 2 million units in the U.S. during their first two weeks on store shelves.

On top of the 5 million-plus copies that have sold in Japan, we think it's safe to say that gamers aren't scared off by all the similarities to previous iterations of the franchise. We're a little worried about the game's success, though -- after all, it's going to be rather difficult to be the very best (like no one ever was) when over 7 million people share our aspirations.

JoystiqPokemon Black and White sell 2 million in U.S. in first two weeks originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 26 Mar 2011 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsgame-freakindustrynintendopokemonPokemon-Black-and-WhitesalesThe-Pokemon-CompanySat, 26 Mar 2011 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[ESRB breakdowns say 5 percent of games were rated M in 2010]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/15/esrb-breakdowns-say-5-percent-of-games-were-rated-m-in-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/15/esrb-breakdowns-say-5-percent-of-games-were-rated-m-in-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/15/esrb-breakdowns-say-5-percent-of-games-were-rated-m-in-2010/#comments The Entertainment Software Ratings Board has published its annual breakdown of classifications it applied to 2010's video game releases, arranged in the delicious-looking pie chart posted above. As you can see, Mature games made up a surprisingly small sliver of the whole -- only 5 percent of the 1,638 games rated last year received an "M" rating, a drop in the bucket compared to the 55 percent of games that received an "E" designation.

These statistics haven't changed much over the past few years -- actually, Mature games actually fell by one percent year-over-year. So, you know, if anyone tries to convince you that games are solely designed to mold everyday citizens into unfeeling murderbots, feel free to drop that knowledge on them.

JoystiqESRB breakdowns say 5 percent of games were rated M in 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Mar 2011 21:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010esrbeveryoneindustrymatureratingsstatisticsTue, 15 Mar 2011 21:10:00 EST<![CDATA[PC gaming sector enjoyed significant revenue growth in 2010, the 'Alliance' reports]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/02/pc-gaming-sector-enjoyed-significant-revenue-growth-in-2010-the/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/02/pc-gaming-sector-enjoyed-significant-revenue-growth-in-2010-the/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/02/pc-gaming-sector-enjoyed-significant-revenue-growth-in-2010-the/#comments It's no surprise that the PC Gaming Alliance, a non-profit organization comprised of companies like AMD, Dell and Epic Games, would have a sunny outlook when it comes to the successes of the PC gaming sector. Fortunately, the group has some promising numbers to back up its glass-half-fullishness: In its third annual "Horizons" report, via Industry Gamers, the PCGA reported that global revenue generated by the PC gaming industry increased 20 percent from 2009 to 2010, netting $16.2 billion for computer-centric publishers, developers and hardware manufacturers last year.

Unsurprisingly, China contributed the largest wad of cash to the global market, spending some $4.8 billion on PC gaming in 2010. More noteworthy is that no regional markets showed revenue decline last year. Really? Because we heard that Switzerland is just chock-full of Xbots and Sony-cronies.

JoystiqPC gaming sector enjoyed significant revenue growth in 2010, the 'Alliance' reports originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Mar 2011 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessindustrypcpc-gaming-alliancepcgasalesWed, 02 Mar 2011 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nikkei: All 400,000 Japanese 3DS units sold out, more on the way]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/27/nikkei-all-400-000-japanese-3ds-units-sold-out-more-on-the-way/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/27/nikkei-all-400-000-japanese-3ds-units-sold-out-more-on-the-way/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/27/nikkei-all-400-000-japanese-3ds-units-sold-out-more-on-the-way/#comments Japanese news outlet Nikkei (via Andriasang) has put a number on the nation's early adoption rate for Nintendo's new, steroscopic handheld: According to their report, Nintendo shipped 400,000 3DS units to Japanese retailers, which managed to just about sell out during its first 24 hours of availability. Who would have thought that there'd be more than 400,000 tech-savvy Nintendo acolytes that lived in Japan? (Us. We would have thought that. As would everyone else.)

If you didn't manage to grab one of the elusive, endangered handhelds, you'll get a second chance soon. According to Andriasang, a number of Japanese tech retailers reportedly received another shipment of 3DS this morning. Which ... probably already sold out by now. Hey, maybe you'll be able to get down on the third shipment! Let's keep hope alive, shall we?

JoystiqNikkei: All 400,000 Japanese 3DS units sold out, more on the way originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 27 Feb 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsbusinessdsindustryjapanlaunchlaunch-daynintendoretailsalesSun, 27 Feb 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Zynga valuations place company at nearly $10 billion]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/19/zynga-valuations-place-company-at-nearly-10-billion/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/19/zynga-valuations-place-company-at-nearly-10-billion/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/19/zynga-valuations-place-company-at-nearly-10-billion/#comments Earlier this week, casual gaming juggernaut Zynga received yet another outside investment of an undisclosed sum of money. A number of news outlets speculated on the aforementioned sum and what it's done to the company's bottom line -- for instance, the Wall Street Journal (via Develop) reported that the investment was worth $250 million, valuing the company at somewhere between $7 billion and $10 billion. All Things Digital says the investment was for $500 million, and claimed (alongside the New York Times) that the company is worth "nearly $10 billion."

Meanwhile, Joystiq.com's gaming industry luminaries have valued the new investment at "many, many millions," placing Zynga's net worth at "the largest number anyone's ever seen or written." Feel free to use those valuations as well, business guys.

JoystiqZynga valuations place company at nearly $10 billion originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 19 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessindustryinvestmentmobilemoneypcvaluezyngaSat, 19 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nielsen: US spending less on games, more on outdoor activities]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/19/nielsen-us-spending-less-on-games-more-on-outdoor-activities/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/19/nielsen-us-spending-less-on-games-more-on-outdoor-activities/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/19/nielsen-us-spending-less-on-games-more-on-outdoor-activities/#comments Bad news, friends: We're losing. That's the only way we can digest the latest Nielsen consumer spending report, in which it was revealed that the US national entertainment budget share for games dropped from 9.3 percent in 2009 to 8.5 percent in 2010. Meanwhile, spending on activities that actually require you to cross the threshold of your home into the horrible, dangerous world (like dining out, going to parks, etc.) increased from 20.4 percent to 25.1 percent year-over-year.

Okay, so the raw dollar-amount spent on games hardly changed between the last two years -- but the average American's budget increased in 2010, and none of that new money was handed over the video game industry. Instead, people spent it on outdoor activities. Outdoors! Can you imagine? That's where animals live, you guys.

[Image credit: Nielson]

JoystiqNielsen: US spending less on games, more on outdoor activities originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 19 Feb 2011 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesschartconsumerdataentertainmentindustrynielsensalesspendingusaSat, 19 Feb 2011 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Australian game industry jobs drop over 50% since 2008]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/18/report-australian-game-industry-jobs-drop-over-50-since-2008/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/18/report-australian-game-industry-jobs-drop-over-50-since-2008/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/18/report-australian-game-industry-jobs-drop-over-50-since-2008/#comments It's been a rough couple years for the games industry in Australia, a new Interactive Skills Integration Scheme survey shows. Currently, the figures (via GameSpot) suggest there are 931 full-time positions across 126 studios in the game industry Down Under, which excludes, oddly enough, "educational and other serious games." With over 1,000 jobs lost since 2008, the survey suggests a decline in jobs of over 50 percent there.

Data shows that Victoria holds the most industry jobs, accounting for 410 full-time development positions across 44 different studios. Brisbane is second, with 22 studios employing 262 full-time developers. Sydney has 144 devs working at 17 studios.

According to project lead Justin Brow, the loss of jobs is part of an exodus -- partly due to the country's lack of compelling IP, partly due to the strength of the country's dollar and partly because of the limited opportunities at the remaining big studios. That's not to say it's all doom and gloom there: companies like Halfbrick are showing that success can be had.

"I want Australia to be more competitive in the global games industry," Brow said. "I know we can do it. We have the innovation, creativity, and technology to do it, and we have good business relationships. There is no reason why we cannot be a leading light in the serious games market."

[Image credit]

JoystiqReport: Australian game industry jobs drop over 50% since 2008 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Feb 2011 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiaIndustryinteractive-skills-integration-schemeJobsjustin-browstudysurveyFri, 18 Feb 2011 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Consumer spending on video games reached $25 billion this year]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/21/consumer-spending-on-video-games-reached-25-billion-this-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/21/consumer-spending-on-video-games-reached-25-billion-this-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/21/consumer-spending-on-video-games-reached-25-billion-this-year/#comments Market research firm Newzoo recently published a report on the U.S. video game industry's sales performance during the current, nearly-finished calendar year, providing evidence for some trends you've probably already noticed. During the past 12 months, overall consumer spending on game software fell two percent year-over-year to $24.7 million, while console and boxed PC/Mac software lost 29 percent and 19 percent of their market shares, respectively.

While these two former sales juggernauts waned, every other form of gaming software, including MMOs, downloadable PC/Mac games, mobile apps, casual games and social networking titles all saw sizable sales boosts over their 2009 totals. Check out the chart after the jump to see how these categories shook out.

[Image credit: Flickr user AMagill]

Continue reading Consumer spending on video games reached $25 billion this year

JoystiqConsumer spending on video games reached $25 billion this year originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Dec 2010 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010casual-gamesindustrymacmicrosoftmmomobilenewzoonintendopcplaystationps3salessoftwarewiixboxTue, 21 Dec 2010 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[THQ president talks up new $40 sales model, building a user base]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/11/thq-president-talks-up-new-40-sales-model-building-a-user-base/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/11/thq-president-talks-up-new-40-sales-model-building-a-user-base/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/11/thq-president-talks-up-new-40-sales-model-building-a-user-base/#comments THQ president Brian Farrell has some bold ideas about the future of the gaming industry's profitability. While speaking at the recent BMO Capital Markets Conference, Farrell explained, "What we're thinking about the business is we're turning it on its head a little bit," later adding, "It's not, 'how high a price can we get', but 'how many users.'" Farrell then described THQ's vision for capitalizing on that policy: As revealed in September, THQ hopes to launch the next entry into the MX vs. ATV series at a lower price point, and rely on DLC to bring in the big bucks.

"When we launched [MX vs. ATV] at $59.99, we'd do some units, and then when we brought the price down to the mass market-friendly price of $39.99, it would just pop," he explained to the conference's attendees. "So the thinking this time is, let's initially launch at $39.99 ... It's a AAA title, at that price point, but then with a series of DLC so people can extend their experience." The company's strategy makes a lot more sense, now. See, before, we just thought they were dropping the MSRP because they wanted to do a nice thing for us.

JoystiqTHQ president talks up new $40 sales model, building a user base originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Nov 2010 17:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmo-capital-markets-conferencebrian-farrelldlcindustrymx-vs-atvmx-vs-atv-alivesalessoftwarethqThu, 11 Nov 2010 17:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Inafune talks about Capcom split, wants to be 'driving force' in game development]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/01/inafune-talks-about-capcom-split-wants-to-be-driving-force-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/01/inafune-talks-about-capcom-split-wants-to-be-driving-force-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/01/inafune-talks-about-capcom-split-wants-to-be-driving-force-in/#comments
Mega Man creator Keiji Inafune has blasted the Japanese gaming industry in an interview conducted by 4Gamer.net right after his recent exit from Capcom, and translated by a NeoGAF forum user. In it, Inafune says that Japanese publishers are "making developers into salarymen" and that he could no longer be the designer he wanted to be at Capcom. Inafune also revealed that he would have liked to have worked alongside his former employer after the split, perhaps as an outside contractor, but was told, "That won't be necessary."

Inafune is quite honest in the interview, commenting that Capcom won't survive using its current employment structure, and that the company will have to pare down its internal workforce and commission Western developers to help make its games in the future. Western developers, says Inafune, are "far and away more passionate" than Capcom's internal teams -- and technically superior, as well.

As for what's next, it sounds like Inafune is planning to start his own company. He says he wants to "do business" and be a "further driving force" in the Japanese games industry. It's a pretty epic interview; you can read it in its entirety at the via link.

JoystiqInafune talks about Capcom split, wants to be 'driving force' in game development originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 01 Nov 2010 21:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-rising-2gamingindustryinterviewjapankeiji-inafuneMon, 01 Nov 2010 21:35:00 EST<![CDATA[ESA publishes '2010 Essential Facts' for Canadian game industry]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/31/esa-publishes-2010-essential-facts-for-canadian-game-industry/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/31/esa-publishes-2010-essential-facts-for-canadian-game-industry/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/31/esa-publishes-2010-essential-facts-for-canadian-game-industry/#comments The Entertainment Software Association recently released its "2010 Essential Facts" report, an annual catalog of statistics regarding video game sales and consumers, for the Canadian games industry (PDF). According to the group's study, 47 percent of Canadian households own a PS3, 360 or Wii, and the average gamer's age is 33 -- both of which mirror the 2010 Essential Facts report on the American games industry (PDF).

The similarities don't stop there -- the study found that 38 percent of Canadian gamers are women, compared to the US' 40 percent. Also, stats regarding parental supervision while purchasing and playing games is as reassuringly high as it was for American parents. Check out a few video testimonials from Canadian game developers about the relative radness of their nation's gaming industry after the jump.

Continue reading ESA publishes '2010 Essential Facts' for Canadian game industry

JoystiqESA publishes '2010 Essential Facts' for Canadian game industry originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 31 Oct 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>canadaesaesa-canadaessential-factsindustrysalesstatisticsSun, 31 Oct 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Analysts sound off on 3DS price and release date announcement]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/30/analysts-sound-off-on-3ds-price-and-release-date-announcement/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/30/analysts-sound-off-on-3ds-price-and-release-date-announcement/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/30/analysts-sound-off-on-3ds-price-and-release-date-announcement/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Over the past 24 hours, select members of the gaming industry peanut gallery have sounded off on Nintendo's recently announced launch plans for the 3DS. Many in the investment community balked at the high price and later-than-expected launch window, including Lazard Capital Markets' Colin Sebastian, who worries "shipment quantities to the U.S. next spring might be more constrained than originally anticipated." MF Global FXA Securities' Jay Defibaugh explained that those two qualms, combined with the devices apparent lack of 3G support, made the announcement a "worst-case scenario."

Though many analysts appear to share these concerns, EEDAR, which expects the handheld to come to the US in March 2011 at $249 to $299, disagrees. "The higher price point allows Nintendo to incorporate new features such as 3D movies, camera, and game support," EEDAR noted in a report received by Joystiq yesterday, later adding, "a 2010 Holiday launch would severely impact both the quantity and quality of titles that could be made available by November 2010."

Wedbush Morgan analyst Michael Pachter predicts that the market will bear the relatively high price of the handheld, though he expects the cost to drop to $250 when it arrives in the U.S.. For more of Pachter's predictions for Nintendo's western 3DS launch plans, check out our interview with the outspoken analyst.

JoystiqAnalysts sound off on 3DS price and release date announcement originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Sep 2010 10:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsanalystscolin-sebastiandseedarindustrymichael-pachternintendoThu, 30 Sep 2010 10:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Pachter: 3DS will cost $250 in the U.S., likely won't come stateside before April]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/30/pachter-3ds-will-cost-250-in-the-u-s-likely-wont-come-state/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/30/pachter-3ds-will-cost-250-in-the-u-s-likely-wont-come-state/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/30/pachter-3ds-will-cost-250-in-the-u-s-likely-wont-come-state/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Wedbush Morgan analyst Michael Pachter recently shared with us his insight on yesterday's pricing and release date announcement for the Nintendo 3DS. He predicts that the 25,000 yen ($299) price point for the Japanese launch of the handheld will depreciate somewhat as it travels to Western markets, arriving in the U.S. for $250, Europe for €250 and the U.K. for £200. And although Nintendo of America CEO Reggie Fils-Aime stated the 3DS would "launch in all of our major markets by March 31, 2011," Pachter foresees an even later arrival in the West.

"Looking at how Nintendo does things," Pachter said, "if you're launching February 26 in Japan, and their earnings reports say before the end of the fiscal year in U.S. and Europe -- is there any prayer, even a 1 percent chance that they'll launch a week later in the U.S., March 5? No freaking way. It's not even remotely possible they're launching first half of March. I'm betting it gets delayed until April in Europe and U.S.."

Some analysts have balked at the fairly high Japanese launch price of the 3DS. Though Pachter admits the launch price is "higher than what's customary" for the handheld market, he said the market will bear the toll -- a lesson hard learned by Nintendo when it launched its latest home console.

"They screwed up on the Wii. It was sold out for two full years! You just couldn't get one," Pachter said. "What was the point? They should have sold it for $300 at launch, and made another $50 for every Wii sold during that period. It sold so competitively in the first few weeks that it was going for $1,000 on eBay -- and they absolutely don't want to see the 3DS on eBay."

Gallery: Nintendo 3DS final hardware

Continue reading Pachter: 3DS will cost $250 in the U.S., likely won't come stateside before April

JoystiqPachter: 3DS will cost $250 in the U.S., likely won't come stateside before April originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Sep 2010 09:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsanalystdsindustrymichael-pachternintendoWedbush-MorganThu, 30 Sep 2010 09:50:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO industry sees increased market share, but less revenue per user]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/26/mmo-industry-sees-increased-market-share-but-less-revenue-per-u/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/26/mmo-industry-sees-increased-market-share-but-less-revenue-per-u/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/26/mmo-industry-sees-increased-market-share-but-less-revenue-per-u/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The online gaming industry analysts at Screen Digest recently shared some good news and bad news with Western MMO developers. The good? According to their report, the MMO market in Europe and the U.S. increased to $1.6 billion last year, up from $1.4 billion in 2008. However, the average revenue gained per MMO player declined 10 percent over the same time period, with recurring subscriptions pulling in around $13 million in 2009. (That's the bad news.)

This decline, of course, is a result of new business models in the MMO space, such as microtransactions and free-to-play online titles. These new models appear to be shaking things up a bit -- but we suppose as long as that first number keeps going up, the second one can do whatever it likes.

JoystiqMMO industry sees increased market share, but less revenue per user originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 26 Sep 2010 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>industrymmommorpgonlinepcrevenueWorld-of-WarcraftSun, 26 Sep 2010 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Atlus USA president reassures fans]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/04/atlus-usa-president-reassures-fans/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/04/atlus-usa-president-reassures-fans/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/04/atlus-usa-president-reassures-fans/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Following Atlus's announcement of a merger into its parent company Index Holdings, you may have been concerned about the state of the developer and publisher. "But what of our RPGs about super-stylish high school students?," you may have asked. "Any news about my beloved sci-fi surgery simulators?" "Will I still have dungeons in which to crawl?"

Atlus USA president Shinichi Suzuki issued a statement today to allay our fears. " We want to assure our fans and affiliates that Atlus remains in operation and will continue, as always, to support our beloved community with the finest quality game experiences possible," Suzuki said. You can read the full statement after the break, then take a sigh of relief and get back to your everyday life of wondering when Atlus USA is going to announce a localization of Catherine.

Continue reading Atlus USA president reassures fans

JoystiqAtlus USA president reassures fans originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 04 Sep 2010 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AtlusAtlus-USAbusinesscatherineIndex-holdingsindustrymergerShinichi-SuzukiSat, 04 Sep 2010 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Inafune: Japanese devs have to 'get humble']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/inafune-japanese-devs-have-to-get-humble/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/inafune-japanese-devs-have-to-get-humble/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/inafune-japanese-devs-have-to-get-humble/#commentsFiled under: , ,

At last year's TGS, Capcom producer Keiji Inafune had some pretty grim things to say about the Japanese game industry. "I said that comment hoping that the Japanese creators were going to wake up," Inafune told Videogamer in a new interview. "However, there has been no change whatsoever to the situation since last year, so I'm still very pessimistic."

Inafune said that some Japanese developers are "still living the glory of the '80s and '90s," when the NES, Super NES and Genesis delivered a steady stream of hit games from Japan to the world. "So they don't admit that there is a problem to start with." He advised his colleagues to "get humble and start learning what's going on."

Inafune also added that just buying Western companies isn't enough, unless publishers "start working with them properly, rather than just commissioning a game and then putting their name on the final product." One company must be feeling that one in its Extreme Edges.

JoystiqInafune: Japanese devs have to 'get humble' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomindustryjapankeiji-inafuneThu, 02 Sep 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Capcom appoints new CEO of US and European branches]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/23/capcom-appoints-new-ceo-of-us-and-european-branches/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/23/capcom-appoints-new-ceo-of-us-and-european-branches/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/23/capcom-appoints-new-ceo-of-us-and-european-branches/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Capcom has promoted Kazuhiko Abe, former director and managing corporate officer of Capcom's worldwide operations, to the position of CEO and President of Capcom USA and Capcom Europe. (Well, we assume it's a promotion.) Abe joined Capcom in 2003 as general manager of management planning and also served as CFO.

Previous to this announcement, Capcom had only one CEO worldwide, founder Kenzo Tsujimoto. The assignment of a separate CEO for Western operations -- even an executive from Capcom Japan -- suggests that Capcom plans for its US and European branches to act more independently from the home office.

[Image credit: Capcom.co.jp]

JoystiqCapcom appoints new CEO of US and European branches originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Aug 2010 15:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CapcomCapcom-EuropeCapcom-USACEOCorporateIndustryKazuhiko-AbeMon, 23 Aug 2010 15:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Warren Spector says game devs are 'still making cartoons']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/18/warren-spector-says-game-devs-are-still-making-cartoons/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/18/warren-spector-says-game-devs-are-still-making-cartoons/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/18/warren-spector-says-game-devs-are-still-making-cartoons/#commentsFiled under: , ,

When Warren Spector told Gamescom attendees that the denizens of his chosen profession are "still making cartoons," he wasn't referring to his upcoming illustrated opus, Epic Mickey. Rather, he was voicing his opinion on what he sees to be one of the biggest challenges facing the industry today: game developers' proclivity for attempting (and ultimately failing) to mimic the storytelling techniques of movies, comics and other forms of popular media.

Of course, one of his main problems with games' stories is their tendency to be dude-centric -- he warned the Gamescom crowd "if we don't break out of big buff guys with swords and guys in tights and space marines in armor, we're going to get marginalized in the way comics have been in the United States." He also warned about attempting to ape blockbuster films by filling games with obscenely expensive visuals, as "we still fall far, far short of what people expect from a movie."

Ultimately, the only form of storytelling Spector thinks games should attempt to emulate is oral conversation, as the person interacting with the game is equally responsible for shaping its story. "Player experience comes first," Spector explained, "we have to allow them to show their creativity. No other medium has allowed them to do this. We are unique in the history of humankind. Every player becomes an author when they play a game."

JoystiqWarren Spector says game devs are 'still making cartoons' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 Aug 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Epic-Mickeygamescom-2010industrynintendowarren-spectorwiiWed, 18 Aug 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: OnLive valued at over a billion dollars]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/05/report-onlive-valued-at-over-a-billion-dollars/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/05/report-onlive-valued-at-over-a-billion-dollars/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/05/report-onlive-valued-at-over-a-billion-dollars/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We knew the technology powering the compression and streaming capabilities of OnLive was actually the work of dark and ancient sorcery, but we never would have guessed how profitable said sorcery actually is. According to a report fromVenture Beat, a regulatory filing issued in May seems to indicate that the company's 342 million shares can be valued at around $1.1 billion.

If this sounds like the kind of moneypie you'd like to enjoy a slice of, the filing values some 8 million new shares created in May at $7.50 a piece. You could totally get down on one of those, then sit back, and just watch the finances roll in. We're pretty sure that's how shares work. You get them, and then the company shares its money with you.

JoystiqReport: OnLive valued at over a billion dollars originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Aug 2010 13:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>industryonlivepcsharesThu, 05 Aug 2010 13:55:00 EST<![CDATA[EA partners with Live Gamer for global microtransaction business]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/26/ea-partners-with-live-gamer-for-global-microtransaction-business/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/26/ea-partners-with-live-gamer-for-global-microtransaction-business/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/26/ea-partners-with-live-gamer-for-global-microtransaction-business/#commentsFiled under: , ,

One of the burgeoning microtransaction industry's biggest players, Live Gamer, announced today its partnership with its largest client to date: Electronic Arts. The monolithic publisher will adopt the company's "Elements" microtransaction platform -- currently in use by over 90 different publishers -- into its current business model to create a global storefront for in-game virtual goods.

You may not realize the implications of this deal, so we'll break it down in the simplest way we know how: World Peace. After all, you know what they say: The planet that buys virtual armor for their virtual horses together, stays together.

JoystiqEA partners with Live Gamer for global microtransaction business originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Jul 2010 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessdigital-distributioneaindustrylive-gamermicrotransactionspcMon, 26 Jul 2010 18:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Midway liquidation plan approved by court]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/23/midway-liquidation-plan-approved-by-court/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/23/midway-liquidation-plan-approved-by-court/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/23/midway-liquidation-plan-approved-by-court/#comments The last shreds of the former developer known as Midway will soon be dissolved into the ether, as a Delaware court has agreed to the terms of the company's plan to repay a portion of its debts. Businessweek reports that after liquidating all its assets, Midway will distribute about $25.5 million to unsecured noteholders, which is about 16.5 percent of what those noteholders are owed. Unsecured creditors will get $9.2 million, which is around one-quarter of what Midway owes them.

So, now that all of its assets either belong to Warner Bros. or are being hocked to repay lenders, we think we've probably seen the last of the once great Midway empire. Unless one of you guys feels like giving them like, $600 million. C'mon, there's gotta be at least one obscenely rich, completely obsessed Mortal Kombat fan out there.

[Via Kotaku]

JoystiqMidway liquidation plan approved by court originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 23 May 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bankruptcybusinessclosurecourtindustrylegalliquidationmidwaySun, 23 May 2010 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EA had 'extensive conversations' with Bungie before Activision partnership]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/19/ea-had-extensive-conversations-with-bungie-before-activision-p/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/19/ea-had-extensive-conversations-with-bungie-before-activision-p/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/19/ea-had-extensive-conversations-with-bungie-before-activision-p/#comments What, did you think the company that created Halo only had one gentleman suitor after parting ways with Microsoft? Don't be silly -- the studio, which recently formed a ten-year partnership with publishing supergiant Activision, was also approached by EA last year. David DeMartini, general manager for EA Partners, explained to CVG, "we had extensive conversations with them, but could never really figure out a deal that made sense for both of us. It just didn't come to fruition."

Though Bungie was ultimately snatched up by one of EA's biggest competitors, DeMartini claimed that he's not bitter. "I don't want to see them fail - I want them to be successful," he explained. "And when they start up a second team, we'll have other discussions with them about that game as well - because they're a great studio." My, what a twisted, complex love triangle that would be.

JoystiqEA had 'extensive conversations' with Bungie before Activision partnership originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 May 2010 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bungiebungivisiondavid-demartinieaea-partnersElectronic-ArtshaloindustrypartnershipWed, 19 May 2010 10:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Torchlight sales surpass 500,000 units]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/18/torchlight-sales-surpass-500-000-units/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/18/torchlight-sales-surpass-500-000-units/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/18/torchlight-sales-surpass-500-000-units/#comments Gamasutra reports that in the weeks preceding its launch on the shiny new Steam for Mac client, Runic Games' top-down RPG Torchlight hit a pretty substantial milestone. Since its launch last October the game, which typically sells for $20, has been purchased over 500,000 times.

We imagine Perfect World, the game's publishing partner that recently purchased a majority stake in Runic, is pleased as punch about reaching the sales milestone. You should be, too -- in honor of hitting the half-million mark, and in celebration of the game's launch on Mac, you can grab Torchlight on Steam for $10 for a limited time.

JoystiqTorchlight sales surpass 500,000 units originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 18 May 2010 19:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>industrymacperfect-world-entertainmentrpgrunic-gamessalessteamtorchlightTue, 18 May 2010 19:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Assassin's Creed 2 ships close to 9 million, Conviction sales reach 1.8 million]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/18/assassins-creed-2-ships-close-to-9-million-conviction-sales-re/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/18/assassins-creed-2-ships-close-to-9-million-conviction-sales-re/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/18/assassins-creed-2-ships-close-to-9-million-conviction-sales-re/#comments Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot was fairly pleased to report during today's investor's briefing that two of the company's biggest games of the past year have been flying both onto and off of store shelves at breakneck speeds. According to Guillemot, Assassin's Creed 2 has shipped nearly 9 million units during the fiscal year, while Splinter Cell: Conviction, which only just launched April 13, has hit 1.8 million in sales.

Guillemot is banking on the continued sales of the latter title to increase Q1 revenues 75 percent year-over-year. We doubt the company will have any problem with that. Games which task the player with discreetly dispatching enemies are apparently in no danger of going out of style.

JoystiqAssassin's Creed 2 ships close to 9 million, Conviction sales reach 1.8 million originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 18 May 2010 14:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Assassins-Creedassassins-creed-2Assassins-Creed-iiindustryMicrosoftsalessplinter-cell-convictionubisoftUbisoft-MontrealXbox-360yves-guillemotTue, 18 May 2010 14:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Bungie hiring 'Personal Assistant/Gopher' to help with office relocation]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/14/bungie-hiring-personal-assistant-gopher-to-help-with-office-re/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/14/bungie-hiring-personal-assistant-gopher-to-help-with-office-re/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/14/bungie-hiring-personal-assistant-gopher-to-help-with-office-re/#comments Are you always a Johnny (or Julie)-on-the-Spot when one of your friends asks for help with a big cross-town move? You may be able to exercise those skills in a more profitable manner by applying for a position which just came open at Bungie: A "Personal Assistant/Gopher" who will tag along with the Studio Head, and "assist in the coordination of a major office relocation/move."

Which office is moving, and where are they moving to, you might be wondering? That's a great question -- one that's not answered by the fairly discrete hiring notice. We certainly hope Bungie hasn't decided to move in with Activision, however. We're sure they've got room for them, but ... well, it's far too early in the relationship to put that kind of pressure on either party. Not to mention the fact that they'd be living in sin.

JoystiqBungie hiring 'Personal Assistant/Gopher' to help with office relocation originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 May 2010 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionbungiehiringindustryjobmoverelocationstudioFri, 14 May 2010 20:30:00 EST