Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Yoshida: Sony did not consider an always-on PS4]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/yoshida-sony-did-not-consider-an-always-on-ps4/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/yoshida-sony-did-not-consider-an-always-on-ps4/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/yoshida-sony-did-not-consider-an-always-on-ps4/#commentsSony never considered an alwayson PS4 The PS4 won't require an "always-on" internet connection, and it was never going to need one, Sony President of Worldwide Studios Shuhei Yoshida told Game Informer (via Gamespot).

"Did we consider it? No, we didn't consider it," Yoshida said. "The main reason being that many countries don't have robust Internet connections. It makes sense for people to have Internet connections to play online games, but for offline games there are many countries that we saw [that] do not really have robust Internet."

Fair point. Yoshida previously confirmed an offline mode in terms of the PS4's social and sharing features, saying, "Oh yes, yes, you can go offline totally. Social is big for us, but we understand there are some people who are anti-social. So if you don't want to connect to anyone else, you can do that." Developers, too, will be able to limit which aspects of their games players can share with the world.

Sony's major next-gen competitor, Microsoft, is set to reveal its new console on May 21. The latest internal memo regarding the next Xbox's online functionality says that some features should "just work" whether a player is on- or offline.

JoystiqYoshida: Sony did not consider an always-on PS4 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>always-onInternetnext-gennext-xboxplaystation-4ps4SONYxbox-nextWed, 08 May 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PS4 doesn't require an always-on internet connection]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/21/ps4-doesnt-require-an-always-on-internet-connection/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/21/ps4-doesnt-require-an-always-on-internet-connection/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/21/ps4-doesnt-require-an-always-on-internet-connection/#comments PS4 doesn't require alwayson internet connectionThe PlayStation 4 does not need to be constantly connected to the internet, president of Sony Worldwide Studios Shuhei Yoshida told Eurogamer following Sony's conference yesterday. The PS4's internet settings are fully customizable, whether someone is concerned about data limits or simply wants to be left alone.

"Oh yes, yes, you can go offline totally," Yoshida said. "Social is big for us, but we understand there are some people who are anti-social. So if you don't want to connect to anyone else, you can do that."

The PS4 has a secondary custom chip that allows users to play games as those games are downloading, and Yoshida said the PS4 will have a low-power mode where the main system is asleep but the subsystem is awake, downloading or uploading content.

Players will be able to wake up the PS4 via tablets, smartphones or with the Vita, Yoshida further explained. The Vita will be able to play PS4 games remotely, with the goal of all games using remote play functionality.

JoystiqPS4 doesn't require an always-on internet connection originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 21 Feb 2013 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>always-onInternetplaystation-2013playstation-4ps4Thu, 21 Feb 2013 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[NPD counts 39M game consoles in US homes going into 2013]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/03/npd-counts-39m-game-consoles-in-us-homes-going-into-2013/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/03/npd-counts-39m-game-consoles-in-us-homes-going-into-2013/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/03/npd-counts-39m-game-consoles-in-us-homes-going-into-2013/#comments The NPD counts 39 million game consoles in US homes going into 2013The NPD's latest report says there are 400 million Internet-connected devices in American homes these days, 39 million of which are video game consoles.

The majority of connected devices (about 184 million) are still plain ol' desktop and laptop computers, and smartphones are in second place with about 133 million devices. Video game consoles come in third, right above tablets (31.8 million) and connected HDTVs (16 million), which means there's a significant number of game-oriented devices out there plugged into the Internet.

The NPD says it expects these devices to start connecting to each other more in 2013, with smartphones and tablets doing more sharing to larger television screens. Video game consoles serve plenty of functions outside of pure gaming already, including video streaming, networking, and Internet browsing. NPD's report says that if smartphones and tablets can provide those services in a combination that appeals to customers, those categories will continue to grow this year, possibly even leaving dedicated game consoles behind.

JoystiqNPD counts 39M game consoles in US homes going into 2013 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Jan 2013 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013computersconnectedinternetmicrosoftnpdplaystationps3reportsmartphonessurveytablettabletsvideo-game-consolesxboxThu, 03 Jan 2013 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Events 2012: SOPA]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/02/events-2012-sopa/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/02/events-2012-sopa/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/02/events-2012-sopa/#comments The Stop Online Piracy Act, had it been successfully enacted, would have given US law enforcement agencies the ability to legally bar search engines from linking to websites that were deemed to host copyright-violating content (whatever that may be), provided said agencies were able to obtain a court order.

It also would have given law enforcement the ability to bar advertisers and e-commerce payment providers from doing business with offending websites, but the bill's real party peace was its ability to block access to infringing websites at the ISP level.

If you think that sounds oddly familiar, that's because it's essentially what The Patriots were trying to accomplish in Metal Gear Solid 2, although the bill's less clandestine methodology wouldn't have required the construction of a massive submersible aquatic fortress.
  • As troubling as all that sounds, internet legislation isn't really in our wheelhouse since we're a video game website and everything. Once Nintendo, Sony and EA all put their weight behind the bill, however, the issue suddenly fell under our jurisdiction and became much more complicated, especially once Microsoft, Apple and a consortium of other tech giants expressed their support.

JoystiqEvents 2012: SOPA originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Jan 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>billcensorshipcongressevents-2012house-of-representativesinternetlawlegallegislationPIPApoliticssenateSOPAWed, 02 Jan 2013 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Over 2,100 sex offenders discovered and banned from online games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/20/over-2-100-sex-offenders-discovered-and-banned-from-online-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/20/over-2-100-sex-offenders-discovered-and-banned-from-online-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/20/over-2-100-sex-offenders-discovered-and-banned-from-online-games/#comments Over 2,100 sexual offenders discovered and banned from online gamesNew York Attorney General Eric T. Schniderman says that five gaming companies, including NCSoft and THQ, have agreed to purge the accounts of over 2100 registered sex offenders from their services. Earlier this year, over 3500 accounts were purged from major online game services run by Microsoft, Apple, Blizzard, EA, and others, and this latest drive adds more to that total (including some from Sony, which agreed to the initial purge but wasn't able to remove the accounts until now).

The goal here is to keep registered sex offenders (who are required by law to register their email addresses, screen names, and other online information) away from children who might be playing on these platforms, and prevent them from contacting potential prey anonymously. Operation: Game Over, as this drive is being called, is the first instance of using this registration information to keep predators off of gaming networks. Hopefully, says Schniderman, it will help "block sex offenders from using gaming systems as a vehicle to prey on underage victims."

JoystiqOver 2,100 sex offenders discovered and banned from online games originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Dec 2012 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>attorney-generalchildreneric-schnidermaneric-t-schneidermangaminginternetlawlegalonlinepredatorssafetyservicessex-offendersThu, 20 Dec 2012 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Deus Ex commentary compilation shows the 'net split on boss fights]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/24/deus-ex-commentary-compliation-shows-the-net-split-on-boss-figh/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/24/deus-ex-commentary-compliation-shows-the-net-split-on-boss-figh/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/24/deus-ex-commentary-compliation-shows-the-net-split-on-boss-figh/#comments Deus Ex boss fights are raising a question among netizens. It looks like our own reviewer wasn't alone in thinking the boss fights in Deus Ex: Human Revolution stood out like a sore thumb from the rest of the subtler gameplay. Nukezilla has compiled clips of commentary about the game from around the web so far, and the opinion is almost universal: The title's boss fights are unnecessary and badly designed.

We say almost, in this case, because the main voice of dissent belongs to Ars Technica's Ben Kuchera, who argues that the game is simply pointing out that sometimes, violence really is necessary. Yes, most of the game lets you move along without combat, but the boss fights, in all of their stupid fury, are meant to show that in a game loaded with choices, sometimes you just don't have one.

Seeing as the game just came out, y'know, today, most of us haven't been able to form our own opinions just yet. But Nukezilla's compilation at least raises a good question, and that's if the boss fights in Deus Ex: Human Revolution really belong there, or if they're there just because boss fights are what video games do.

JoystiqDeus Ex commentary compilation shows the 'net split on boss fights originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Aug 2011 03:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>commentarydeus-exdeus-ex-human-revolutiondiscussioneidos-montrealinternetmicrosoftpcplaystationps3square-enixxboxWed, 24 Aug 2011 03:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Blinkbox movie and TV streaming service now available on PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/12/blinkbox-movie-and-tv-streaming-service-now-available-on-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/12/blinkbox-movie-and-tv-streaming-service-now-available-on-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/12/blinkbox-movie-and-tv-streaming-service-now-available-on-ps3/#comments Good news for UK PS3 owners. Blinkbox, a provider of online streaming movies and TV shows, has created a new PS3-friendly version of its website. Navigating to blinkbox.com in the PS3 internet browser will launch a specially formatted site, reminiscent of PS3-optimized versions of YouTube and BBC iPlayer. Based on a few videos we tested, we'd say the site is rather easy to navigate with the DualShock controller, and the video playback runs smoothly.

Programming available for non-UK residents is rather limited with James Earl Jones' Blood Tide as one of the few free options available for US residents. UK residents, however, can enjoy free TV series and movies, in addition to paid rentals, starting at £0.39 for a TV show and £0.99 for a movie.

It's an interesting alternative to Sony's own PlayStation Store video content, especially for those that want to instantly watch video, instead of waiting on lengthy downloads through PSN.

[Via Edge]

JoystiqBlinkbox movie and TV streaming service now available on PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 May 2010 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blinkboxbrowserinternetstreamingukWed, 12 May 2010 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Game developers speak with FCC about bandwidth concerns]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/05/game-developers-speak-with-fcc-about-net-neutrality/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/05/game-developers-speak-with-fcc-about-net-neutrality/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/05/game-developers-speak-with-fcc-about-net-neutrality/#comments
Last month, a group of online game developers (from companies like Turbine and Vivox, and even a board candidate for the Independent Game Developers Association) met with the FCC to argue for Internet neutrality, and against Internet Service Providers offering premium access and bandwidth to paying game publishers (here's the PDF of the meeting notes). The argument here, brought up again by a think tank called Digital Society, is about differentiating certain network connections from others -- if you allow ISPs to charge for accounts with better quality of service (QoS), then it's possible, argue these game developers, that companies or customers who don't pay will end up suffering from lag and other game-breaking problems.

It's a tough issue. As the game devs told the FCC, bandwidth is already tough to program around (especially in games like FPSes where nanoseconds count), and with the advent of bandwidth-intensive services like OnLive and "peering" rather than dedicated servers, these developers argue that ISPs charging companies for QoS would edge out entrepreneurs and actually discourage innovation in gaming. ISPs answer that a premium service doesn't mean the non-premium service is bad, just that they want to offer premium products to customers (and of course rake in the ensuing fees). Unfortunately, it's going to take more than just an FCC workshop to solve this ongoing concern.

JoystiqGame developers speak with FCC about bandwidth concerns originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 05 Feb 2010 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessbandwidthdigital-societyfccgame-developersigdainternetinternet-service-providerslegallegalitynet-neutralityqosquality-of-serviceturbinevivoxFri, 05 Feb 2010 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA['Cloudsurf' trademark joins wave of Sony cloud computing hints]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/05/cloudsurf-trademark-joins-wave-of-sony-cloud-computing-hints/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/05/cloudsurf-trademark-joins-wave-of-sony-cloud-computing-hints/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/05/cloudsurf-trademark-joins-wave-of-sony-cloud-computing-hints/#comments Sony has filed a trademark notice here in the U.S. for the word "Cloudsurf," and the trademark relates to a number of different products and services, including everything from audio players to game consoles to video cameras, as well as online distribution of games, music and television. In other words, it could be for anything that Sony has made or sold, ever.

Edge guesses that it could have something to do with online distribution or even storage via a subscription model, and you might remember that earlier last year, Sony trademarked "PS Cloud," then hinting at a "cloud computing" system to provide storage or processing over the Internet. Of course, companies file trademarks all the time, without any obligation to reveal or release whatever product they're working on. So right now, "Cloudsurf" is made up of nothing but thin air -- permeated, we'd imagine, by a floaty, visible mass of condensed water droplets.

Joystiq'Cloudsurf' trademark joins wave of Sony cloud computing hints originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Jan 2010 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cloud-computingcloud-strifecloudsurfinternetonlineplaystation-3processorps-cloudps-thankssonytrademarkvideo-camerasTue, 05 Jan 2010 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Joost launches PS3 video site]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/18/joost-launches-ps3-video-site/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/18/joost-launches-ps3-video-site/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/18/joost-launches-ps3-video-site/#comments
Internet video service Joost has just launched a special PS3 version of its site, and we have to admit it's pretty slick. The interface is designed specifically for the PS3, using the D-Pad to quickly go through the streamlined interface. Holding down the X button will bring up a special on-screen menu that allows you to quickly switch between windowed and full-screen playback. It's all very intelligently designed and easy to use.

Joost follows the footsteps of YouTube, which also offers a special portal for use on PS3. However, we found Joost runs much more smoothly than YouTube, offering better video quality at a better framerate. Unlike YouTube, you'll see advertisements before your video, but the improved interface and quality make for a significantly better experience. To check it out, visit http://labs.joost.com/tv on your PS3 browser. Don't forget to hit SELECT if you want to add it to your PS3's bookmarks.

JoystiqJoost launches PS3 video site originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 18 Jun 2009 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>internetjooststreamingvideoThu, 18 Jun 2009 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Time Warner Cable creates $150 unlimited broadband tier]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/11/time-warner-cable-creates-150-unlimited-broadband-tier/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/11/time-warner-cable-creates-150-unlimited-broadband-tier/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/11/time-warner-cable-creates-150-unlimited-broadband-tier/#comments
Amid complaints of price gouging over the new broadband pricing structure its been testing out in select U.S. cities, Time Warner Cable has announced two new tiers for users with varying internet consumption habits. First, for just $15, you can sign yourself up for a 1GB per month contract, which will ... oh, come on. None of you use under 1GB a month. That's ridiculous. It takes more than 1GB to view our front page, due to our extreme high-def JPEGs.

The other tier of interest is the 100GB plan, which runs users $75 dollars a month. Each additional gigglebyte over that will cost $1, though Time Warner plans on placing a $75 cap on overage fees. Basically, for $150, you get unlimited high-speed internet. A hundy-and-a-half? Man, that's pocket change for us media maven types. We make $150 for every sentence in our posts. Which is good. Money, we mean. We like it. It's great. (Ka-ching!)

JoystiqTime Warner Cable creates $150 unlimited broadband tier originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 11 Apr 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>100GBbroadbandcableGBinternetpricingtime-warnertime-warner-cabletimewarnercableSat, 11 Apr 2009 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[A look at Time Warner's broadband pricing structure]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/07/a-look-at-time-warners-broadband-pricing-structure/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/07/a-look-at-time-warners-broadband-pricing-structure/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/07/a-look-at-time-warners-broadband-pricing-structure/#comments
OK, we need to get serious for a few paragraphs about new bandwidth rates being tested by Time Warner Cable, something that could seriously affect gamers' wallets. Gamers with Jobs has posted an excellent analysis of Time Warner Cable's new metered pricing structure, currently being tested in Greensboro, NC; Austin and San Antonio, TX; and Rochester, NY.

The price structure:
  • 5GB: $29.99/month
  • 10GB: $39.99/month
  • 20GB: $49.99/month
  • 40GB: $54.90/month
  • 100GB: No information yet

Source: Democrat & Chronicle

In the piece, Lara Crigger breaks down her internet consumption to surprising results. She lives with her husband (also a gamer), they have no kids, and their consumption doesn't seem out of place for a young couple -- their Xbox Netflix usage apparently hides some serious bandwidth usage. In the end, she estimates they'd pay out roughly $67 a month under the new rates, instead of the $40 she currently offers the cable company. We strongly recommend reading her piece, because this is an issue that could be coming to a neighborhood near you.
[Image]

JoystiqA look at Time Warner's broadband pricing structure originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 Apr 2009 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>broadbandgamers-with-jobsinternetprice-structuretime-warnertime-warner-cableTue, 07 Apr 2009 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[More people web browse on PS3 than Wii]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/05/more-people-web-browse-on-ps3-than-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/05/more-people-web-browse-on-ps3-than-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/05/more-people-web-browse-on-ps3-than-wii/#commentsFiled under:

In addition to PS3's recent and stunning victory over GameCube in terms of "video game console usage," the ebony mammoth also one-ups over Nintendo's current console, Wii. According to statistical data gathered by Market Share, the PS3's internal web browser accounts for 0.04 percent of all internet users while Wii (the only other current gen console to have a browser) only measures up to a 0.01 percent share.

The PS3's free browser is probably one factor which gives it an edge over the Wii's $5 Opera Internet Channel. Unfortunately, as the trifling amounts show, neither system seems to really dent PC's 88.7 percent dominance. We guess people enjoy their game blogs, lol kittehs and pRon the traditional way.

[Via Joystiq via Edge Online]

JoystiqMore people web browse on PS3 than Wii originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Jan 2009 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>internetps3web-browserMon, 05 Jan 2009 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: PS3 leads Wii ... in web browsing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/02/report-ps3-leads-wii-in-web-browsing/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/02/report-ps3-leads-wii-in-web-browsing/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/02/report-ps3-leads-wii-in-web-browsing/#commentsFiled under: ,


If you've ever wondered "Does anyone actually browse the web on consoles?," Market Share has an answer for you: yes, but not very many people. The firm reports that .04% of all web browsing is performed on PS3, compared to the .01% of Wii, the only other current-gen console with a browser.

Of course, PS3's browser is built-in; Wii's particular version of Opera costs 500 Wii Points ($5) and, well, people have to seek it out among the other WiiWare offerings. So, tell us, are you reading Joystiq on a console, and if so, which one?

JoystiqReport: PS3 leads Wii ... in web browsing originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Jan 2009 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserinternetPS3webWiiFri, 02 Jan 2009 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[More people browse the net on PS3 than Wii]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/02/more-people-browse-the-net-on-ps3-than-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/02/more-people-browse-the-net-on-ps3-than-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/02/more-people-browse-the-net-on-ps3-than-wii/#commentsFiled under:


According to a business statistics group, Market Share, the PS3 delivers more web traffic than the much more popular Wii. Stats put the PS3 at a 0.04 share of the overall internet market, with the Wii trailing behind at 0.01. With more Wii consoles out there than PS3s, and a superior method of browsing (controller vs. Wiimote, Wiimote wins), we're a tad bit shocked.

Of course, one must take into account the fact that the Wii's web browser is no longer free. For a large part of the console's first year on the market it was, so that likely has a lot to do with how many folks are using their console to surf the web. The PS3's browser has always been absolutely free.

How many of you use your Wii to cruise the seedy backstreets of this intertron we all know and love?

JoystiqMore people browse the net on PS3 than Wii originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Jan 2009 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserinternetnintendo-wii-browseroperaopera-browserps3sonysony-ps3-browserFri, 02 Jan 2009 15:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Top 5: Statements That Will Get You Punched in the Face By a Nintendo Fanboy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/10/top-5-statements-that-will-get-you-punched-in-the-face-by-a-nin/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/10/top-5-statements-that-will-get-you-punched-in-the-face-by-a-nin/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/10/top-5-statements-that-will-get-you-punched-in-the-face-by-a-nin/#commentsFiled under:


"To each their own." It's a simple rule that, if universally followed, could result in world peace. On the other hand, if people didn't go online to bitch at each other about video games, then many bloggers would be collecting unemployment. I can't speak for every other hobby that exists, but I imagine that fly-fishing and glass-blowing message boards are considerably more pleasant than gaming forums.

So as it is, the gaming world is chock full of debate. Hrmm, scratch that. The word "debate" conjures impressions of two well-groomed individuals standing behind podiums and taking turns eloquently addressing issues presented to them by a moderator. For every one of these moments, you get a couple thousand boring ones. But when the forum is switched to the Internet, the dialogue transforms into a partisan torrent of vitriol. While political campaigning may be viewed as a chess match between experts, an appropriate metaphor for gaming and Internet debate in general can be found in the gigantic brawl at the end of 1977's Slap Shot.

In particular, Nintendo fanboys seem to simultaneously be a large source of and recipients to such slander. Perhaps it's due to Nintendo's extensive gaming history (especially when compared to Sony and Microsoft). Similarly, many of these Fanboys grew up with Nintendo, with the NES and SNES occasionally acting as a babysitter. For some, an attack on Nintendo is equal to or worse than an attack on one's family. To such individuals, I say take it easy. I'm certainly not above the label of "Nintendo Fanboy" (look at the name of this site for crying out loud), but I do try my best to apply sound reason and understanding to such hostility. I now present to you a look at 5 common weapons used in battle against Nintendo, an analysis of each argument, and how best a supporter of Nintendo should respond.


The Top 5 is a weekly feature that provides us with a forum to share our opinions on various aspects of the video game culture, and provides you with a forum to tell us how wrong we are. To further voice your opinions, submit a vote in the Wii Fanboy Poll, and take part in the daily discussions of Wii Warm Up.

JoystiqTop 5: Statements That Will Get You Punched in the Face By a Nintendo Fanboy originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Nov 2008 11:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>argumentargumentsbusinessdebatefanboyfanboy-warsfanboychatterfanboysflaminginternetjoystiqfeaturesnintendosalestop-5wiiMon, 10 Nov 2008 11:50:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Daily: Browsing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/19/ds-daily-browsing/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/19/ds-daily-browsing/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/19/ds-daily-browsing/#commentsFiled under:

Thanks to the DS homebrew community, you can enjoy at least one rudimentary web browser, and thanks to Nintendo, you can enjoy ... well, one official rudimentary browser. Come the time of the DSi, a browser will be included, and web browsing will just become a part of the DS experience.

Or will it? Not only was the official browser not very engaging, but we just never felt much need for net-surfing from the DS. Does that appeal to you?

JoystiqDS Daily: Browsing originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 19 Oct 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserdsihomebrewinternetnintendo-dsiSun, 19 Oct 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo randomly reveals WiFi Network Adapter]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/08/nintendo-randomly-reveals-wifi-network-adapter/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/08/nintendo-randomly-reveals-wifi-network-adapter/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/08/nintendo-randomly-reveals-wifi-network-adapter/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Our faces lit up this morning after seeing this image on Famitsu's site. Surely, this was it: Nintendo's long-awaited solution to the storage woes of every Wii-owning geek and otaku on the planet. Alas, no. After scrambling for a machine translation of the accompanying kanji, our hopes were emphatically mangled. This is no HDD unit, but a portable air conditioner the "Nintendo WiFi Network Adapter." Once again, life had thrown us a cruel curveball. Happy Monday morning, us.

Anyway, if you struggle to get your Wii or DS online (and we know from experience that it can be fiddly), then this dinky wireless LAN router is for you. It can be used with the Wii, the DS, your PC, and other devices, and will be available on Nintendo's Japanese homepage from September 18th, priced at ¥5,800 (US$53). There's no news yet on a launch outside Japan, though as the Nintendo WiFi USB Connector was discontinued late last year, a western release would be a safe bet.

Hit the break for three more images, one of which depicts the adapter's three modes: "Router," "Bridge" (for connecting to your Wii or DS via another router), and "Auto" (which automatically switches your network). As for our ongoing storage issues, we're still waiting, Shiggy/Reggie/Satoru ...

Continue reading Nintendo randomly reveals WiFi Network Adapter

JoystiqNintendo randomly reveals WiFi Network Adapter originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Sep 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>internetmultiplayernintendo-wifi-network-adapteronlinerouterwifiMon, 08 Sep 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free Wi-Fi for DS no more at North American McDonald's now]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/28/free-wi-fi-for-ds-no-more-at-north-american-mcdonalds-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/28/free-wi-fi-for-ds-no-more-at-north-american-mcdonalds-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/28/free-wi-fi-for-ds-no-more-at-north-american-mcdonalds-now/#commentsFiled under: ,


Personally, we can't remember the last time we were in a McDonald's, so this news comes as, uh, well ... news to us. You see, the partnership between McDonald's and Wayport actually expired back in November of last year. Canadians are also up the same creek without a paddle, as the deal with Fatport also expired. This is not to say you can't still get online at McDonald's, it'll just take a bit more for you to get online with your DS.

Apparently, using the DS Opera Browser or a wi-fi dongle with a laptop will still allow you to get your DS online. But, as one might imagine, these alternatives aren't the best. Unless you go with the second choice, you won't even be able to enjoy a game online. Oh well, if it forces you to get wireless internet in your home, it can't be all that bad of a thing, right?

JoystiqFree Wi-Fi for DS no more at North American McDonald's now originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 May 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserdonglefatporthotspotinternetmcdonaldsoperawayportwi-fi-hotspotWed, 28 May 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Warm Up: More Opera talk]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/20/wii-warm-up-more-opera-talk/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/20/wii-warm-up-more-opera-talk/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/20/wii-warm-up-more-opera-talk/#commentsFiled under:

Those of us too cheap to buy DVRs love that most TV networks offer their programming online -- after all, we'd hate to tell our friends that we couldn't hang out on a Friday night because we had to watch BSG. Even so, we prefer to watch TV on actual televisions rather than computer screens. The Wii seems like a perfect way to compromise this, but until Adobe releases a Flash upgrade on their software development kit, it's not going to happen.

We already know that a lot of you use your Wii's Opera browser, but what do you think of it? Are there any limitations you've noticed besides the Flash issue? What other improvements do you think Opera could make? And are there any games or applications that you find perfect for Wii browsing?

JoystiqWii Warm Up: More Opera talk originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 20 Apr 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserflashinternetoperaweb-browserSun, 20 Apr 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Streaming BBC video comes to the Wii]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/09/streaming-bbc-video-comes-to-the-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/09/streaming-bbc-video-comes-to-the-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/09/streaming-bbc-video-comes-to-the-wii/#commentsFiled under: ,

Now that the Wii has brought TV web browsing to millions of homes, web services are tripping all over themselves to make sure they're fully compatible with the Wii's Opera browser. The latest organization to trip is the BBC, which announced today that its iPlayer catch-up service will allow UK Wii owners to stream programs through the system directly onto their TVs.

The program, which goes into beta today, is simply a Wii-optimized version of the BBC's existing iPlayer catch-up service, which last month served 17.2 million episodes of programs such as Torchwood, Doctor Who and Top Gear, among dozens of others. The service will only be available to UK citizens and does require the 500 Wii Point purchase of the Internet channel, but a BBC info. page says the organization is hoping "to be able to get iPlayer on Wii without this purchase being needed."

[Thanks to everybody who sent this in]

JoystiqStreaming BBC video comes to the Wii originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Apr 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BBCbritishdoctor-whointernetstreamingtop-geartorchwoodUKunited kingdomUnitedKingdomvideowebWiiWed, 09 Apr 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Economic woes extend to Second Life]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/25/economic-woes-extend-to-second-life/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/25/economic-woes-extend-to-second-life/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/25/economic-woes-extend-to-second-life/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Everywhere you look, it seems there's news of some real life business jumping into the virtual world of Second Life. Car companies, HR firms, clothing makers; you name it, it was being sold on the virtual frontier. But, as PRI's Marketplace reported earlier this week, many businesses are having trouble turning their virtual storefronts into real money.

Despite the relatively low overhead costs of operating a Second Life business, companies like Starwood Hotels, AOL and Wells Fargo have been leaving their digital outposts in recent months. The problem of marketing to avatars was effectively summarized by reporter Janet Babin as "too many 7-foot-tall winged creatures flying around with no need for American Apparel's cotton T-shirts."

Meanwhile, the Wall Street Journal is covering a Second Life banking scandal that could rival the sub-prime mortgage crisis for SL citizens. It seems some questionable banking schemes has led Linden Labs to shut down over a dozen virtual banks, causing a run on funds over the past few weeks. Makes us glad we kept our Linden Dollars under the virtual mattress.

Read - Business exodus on Marketplace
Read - Banking scandal on Wall Street Journal

JoystiqEconomic woes extend to Second Life originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 Jan 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bankbankingbusinessdownturninternetmetaverseMMORPGPCrecessionsecond-lifetroubleFri, 25 Jan 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[No concrete date for Wii Ware launch, says Nintendo]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/10/no-concrete-date-for-wii-ware-launch-says-nintendo/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/10/no-concrete-date-for-wii-ware-launch-says-nintendo/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/10/no-concrete-date-for-wii-ware-launch-says-nintendo/#commentsFiled under: ,


Following yesterday's news of developer Engine Software's Project Bang! being the next title to hit Wii Ware, many were wondering what was up with the blurb about Wii Ware launching in March of this year. Personally, we'd like to see the service launch in March. It's as good a time as any for us.

But, Nintendo isn't willing to confirm or deny that is the launch window for their download service. "Nintendo has not made any official announcement regarding the launch of the WiiWare service," Nintendo commented. So, with no news on what exactly Project Bang! is and no solid launch date for Nintendo's service, we're left where we started. And that place is desperately waiting for the day we can download Dr. Mario on our Wii.

[Via Go Nintendo]

JoystiqNo concrete date for Wii Ware launch, says Nintendo originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Jan 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>downloaddr-mariointernetlaunchproject-bangThu, 10 Jan 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WeGame makes gameplay video sharing easy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/09/wegame-makes-gameplay-video-sharing-easy/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/09/wegame-makes-gameplay-video-sharing-easy/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/09/wegame-makes-gameplay-video-sharing-easy/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

GameTrailers, GameVideos, YouTube ... it's not like we're hurting for ways to watch video game clips online these days. So today's public beta launch of WeGame.com might seem a little redundant. But there are a few reasons we like this new little site.

For one, the site is focused on entertaining gameplay videos and machinima, not gameplay-free promotional "trailers" or gamers cursing about NES games. For another, it comes with a simple, free tool for easily recording video from 22 popular PC games and uploading it to the site. And with $500,000 in venture capital funding, according to CrunchBase, this isn't some fly-by-night operation.

The beta already has some entertaining clips -- we particularly liked the automotive zombie melee and the clip of heavy firepower in Portal. All we need now is a way to record console performances, then we'll be golden. WeGame staff ... get on it!

JoystiqWeGame makes gameplay video sharing easy originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Jan 2008 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gameplayinternetmachinimaonlinePCsharingtubesvideovidswebWed, 09 Jan 2008 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The result of NTT and Nintendo teaming up]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/09/the-result-of-ntt-and-nintendo-teaming-up/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/09/the-result-of-ntt-and-nintendo-teaming-up/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/09/the-result-of-ntt-and-nintendo-teaming-up/#commentsFiled under:


Back in November when we heard about Japanese telecoms provider Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corp combining forces with Nintendo to promote the Wii and its online capabilities, we weren't sure what kind of adverts would be the result. In the commercial above, we get a small glimpse at Smash Bros. Brawl, but the majority of the ad is populated by a happy woman and some kind of egg deal. What is the significance of the egg? Someone please explain the egg to us?

[Via Kotaku]

JoystiqThe result of NTT and Nintendo teaming up originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Jan 2008 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fiber-opticinternetjapannippon-telegraph-telephone-corpnttWed, 09 Jan 2008 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Lost in Blue 3 could be found in North America soon]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/13/lost-in-blue-3-could-be-found-in-north-america-soon/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/13/lost-in-blue-3-could-be-found-in-north-america-soon/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/13/lost-in-blue-3-could-be-found-in-north-america-soon/#commentsFiled under:


A listing for Lost in Blue 3 (when are these folks going to be found already?!) has emerged on EB Games' website, causing many to believe the game is bound for a North American release sometime soon. As it stands right now, the game is currently set to release in Japan next week.

Regarding a proposed release date outside of Japan, the listing at EB Games (which has since been pulled down) states the title will ship in March of 2008. Odds are this will happen, of course, considering the first two titles graced retail shelves in other territories. The real question is: do you care?

JoystiqLost in Blue 3 could be found in North America soon originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 Dec 2007 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ebgamesgamestopinternetkonamilost-in-bluelost-in-blue-3lostinblueonlineThu, 13 Dec 2007 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days gets its tease on]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/10/kingdom-hearts-358-2-days-gets-its-tease-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/10/kingdom-hearts-358-2-days-gets-its-tease-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/10/kingdom-hearts-358-2-days-gets-its-tease-on/#commentsFiled under:


Following its participation at Jump Festa, there isn't much of anything new to report on regarding the upcoming Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days for the DS. That is, except that there is a new teaser site for the game. But, as with the game itself, there isn't anything new there ... yet. We're suggesting you get your bookmark on, as it's bound to be updated in the near future with juicy screens and tidbits of information.

[Via Go Nintendo]

JoystiqKingdom Hearts 358/2 Days gets its tease on originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Dec 2007 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>internetjapankingdom-heartskingdom-hearts-358/2-daysonlinerpgsquare-enixwebsiteMon, 10 Dec 2007 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Populous teases us with website]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/30/populous-teases-us-with-website/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/30/populous-teases-us-with-website/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/30/populous-teases-us-with-website/#commentsFiled under:


The Japanese site for Populous DS has risen from the bottom of the tubes we call the internet and has thrust itself out there for all to see. In checking out what it has to offer, we found that there isn't really anything there right now. You can check out a couple of screens (which you have probably already seen before) and try to make sense of all the kanji there, should you choose. Or, you can just keep reading DS Fanboy and we'll update you as to when the site has some real content.

JoystiqPopulous teases us with website originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 Nov 2007 14:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eainternetjapanpopulouswebFri, 30 Nov 2007 14:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo.com gets updated in a big way]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/29/nintendo-com-gets-updated-in-a-big-way/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/29/nintendo-com-gets-updated-in-a-big-way/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/29/nintendo-com-gets-updated-in-a-big-way/#commentsFiled under:


Forget your grandma's boring old Nintendo.com. The new Nintendo.com is extreme in a kind of way that can only be measured in Quantum Dew Units. That's right, the new Nintendo.com's most extreme nature can only be compared to cans of Mountain Dew, with a single can representing one QDU. Right now, Nintendo.com is at about 74,821.288888 QDU. In case you were wondering, that's enough Mountain Dew to choke a unicorn to death.

But, in all seriousness, Nintendo.com just looks very ... white now. There's so much white space, we're compelled to bust out a marker and draw little pictures in the margins like we did back in school. But, then again, maybe that's why we didn't graduate. Or may be are brain am broke.

Head on over to the new site and poke around. For those of you looking for the return of the Nsider forums, you're out of luck.

JoystiqNintendo.com gets updated in a big way originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Nov 2007 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>foruminternetnetnsideronlinewebThu, 29 Nov 2007 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo promotes fiber-optic internet in Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/29/nintendo-promotes-fiber-optic-internet-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/29/nintendo-promotes-fiber-optic-internet-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/29/nintendo-promotes-fiber-optic-internet-in-japan/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Nintendo is anticipating that its WiiWare service is going to be huge. So huge, in fact, that they're doing their best to make sure Japanese gamers have the internet muscle to handle it. Reuters reports that Nintendo is partnering with broadband provider Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corp, in order to promote and increase the use of high-speed, fiber-optic internet connections in the country.

The partnership involves NTT offering a reduced-rate internet package aimed at Wii owners, as well as Nintendo and NTT co-running call centers intended to assist users with the setup of both their fiber-optic connections, and their Nintendo Wiis. Both parties clearly benefit from this association, as NTT knows that the Wii can easily be an incentive for households to pick up fiber-optics, just as much as Nintendo knows that customer experience with the WiiWare service will improve with faster internet service.

JoystiqNintendo promotes fiber-optic internet in Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Nov 2007 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fiber-opticsinternetjapannintendowiiThu, 29 Nov 2007 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NTT and Nintendo team up to push Wii's online features]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/28/ntt-and-nintendo-team-up-to-push-wiis-online-features/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/28/ntt-and-nintendo-team-up-to-push-wiis-online-features/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/28/ntt-and-nintendo-team-up-to-push-wiis-online-features/#commentsFiled under: ,


Before the launch of downloadable games on Wii Ware, Nintendo has decided they need to push the online features of the Wii console in Japan. So, they've teamed up with Japanese telecoms provider Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corp to do just that.

As part of the deal, Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corp will offer up discounted internet start up packages and set-up help to Wii owners. By doing so, Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corp hopes to boost penetration for fiber optic internet service by hooking in some of the Wii's large user base.

Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corp senior exec VP Tetsuo Koga hopes to have "20 million subscribers by the year ending March 2011."

JoystiqNTT and Nintendo team up to push Wii's online features originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Nov 2007 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fiber-opticinternetjapannippon-telegraph-telephone-corpnttWed, 28 Nov 2007 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Hullbreach manages to snag a few users]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/07/hullbreach-manages-to-snag-a-few-users/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/07/hullbreach-manages-to-snag-a-few-users/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/07/hullbreach-manages-to-snag-a-few-users/#commentsFiled under: ,


A fresh press release from Hullbreach Online, that Wii Internet Channel MMO we reported on a few weeks back, states that some people have decided to give it a try. With 1,175 members, the game has grown a bit. There are now 576 different sectors that players can hyperjump to, as well as numerous quests and combat scenarios to complete. From the press release, it sounds like this thing is growing pretty fast.

While we haven't played it ourselves (darn this blogging), we love to hear about this kind of stuff. Ambition projects are few and far between, it seems, so we look forward to December. Why? Well, that's when the final release hits, which will have NPC interaction, asteroid mining and player-to-player bartering.

Has anyone given this a try? Are you finding it to your liking? Or, is it a waste of time?

[Via press release]

JoystiqHullbreach manages to snag a few users originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Nov 2007 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserhullbreachinternetmmommorpgoperarpgspaceWed, 07 Nov 2007 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo shuts down official forums "indefinitely"]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/17/nintendo-shuts-down-official-forums-indefinitely/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/17/nintendo-shuts-down-official-forums-indefinitely/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/17/nintendo-shuts-down-official-forums-indefinitely/#commentsFiled under: ,

Pop quiz time: You're a video game manufacturer with an insanely loyal fan base that has joined together to turn your official online forums into a vibrant, thriving Internet community. What do you do? Answer: If you're Nintendo, you shut down those forums and leave their future up in the air during a site redesign.

A cryptic message on the NSider Forums main page today announced that the message boards have been disabled "indefinitely" pending a complete overhaul of the entire Nintendo.com site. Nintendo says that the future of the forums past that redesign is "uncertain" and that the existing posts will be taken down after a week of availability in read-only format.

In the meantime, Nintendo suggests users who want to continue talking about the company should consider "starting their own Nintendo discussion sites." Sounds good to us. After all, why should a big company like Nintendo have to incur the cost of hosting, promoting and moderating a community of fans devoted to talking about their products when the fans can do it themselves?

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

JoystiqNintendo shuts down official forums "indefinitely" originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Sep 2007 22:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSfanforumsinternetmessageboardNintendowebWiiMon, 17 Sep 2007 22:48:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo polling public on Wii game demo demand]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/21/nintendo-polling-public-on-wii-game-demo-demand/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/21/nintendo-polling-public-on-wii-game-demo-demand/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/21/nintendo-polling-public-on-wii-game-demo-demand/#commentsFiled under: ,


Over at Go Nintendo, a reader sent in the above image, which is a hurdle that those wishing to enter the latest Nintendo Power sweepstakes need to tackle. It throws up flags in all areas, as it causes us to believe Nintendo is honestly considering providing us with some sort of demo download service. We don't like the idea of having to pay for the ability to do this, but we'll smile for the time being just at the thought that Nintendo is doing something in regards to the online situation.

JoystiqNintendo polling public on Wii game demo demand originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Aug 2007 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>internetnintendopowerTue, 21 Aug 2007 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Revolutionary: Web Wii Wares]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/17/revolutionary-web-wii-wares/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/17/revolutionary-web-wii-wares/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/17/revolutionary-web-wii-wares/#commentsFiled under:

Every Tuesday, Mike Sylvester brings you REVOLUTIONARY, a look at the wide world of Wii possibilities.

When WiiWare was announced, it seemed like a godsend for the garage developer wishing to make Wii games for mass appreciation. But details on how to get your hands on a WiiWare development kit and the costs involved are not public knowledge, and the official launch of the distribution channel (on the Wii Shop Channel) isn't going to be happening until some time next year. So what's a Wii-loving, budget-restricted developer to do in the meanwhile? Making games for Wii's Opera Browser is one option.

Continue reading Revolutionary: Web Wii Wares

JoystiqRevolutionary: Web Wii Wares originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Jul 2007 11:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserchannelsFlashhomebrewinternetJavascriptjoystiqfeaturesOperaRevolutionarywiiwareTue, 17 Jul 2007 11:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Save your website from Wiitis]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/07/save-your-website-from-wiitis/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/07/save-your-website-from-wiitis/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/07/save-your-website-from-wiitis/#commentsFiled under: ,

If you have a website, you may have wondered just what you might need to do to make it Wii-friendly. Luckily, there's a great guide on Opera for the Wii available at the Opera Development Community that goes into all the ins and outs of just what the Wii's browser can do, and plenty of tips to make browsing from the sofa a little easier. The in-depth guide even looks at the smallest of details, such as what is and isn't available in the onscreen keyboard, and what kind of addresses and forms are workable on the console. For anyone looking to make the web a little more Wii-friendly, this is the place to go.

JoystiqSave your website from Wiitis originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Jun 2007 16:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserinternetinternet channelInternetChannelonlineoperawi-fiwifiwiiThu, 07 Jun 2007 16:50:00 EST<![CDATA[U.S. Opera DS web browser impressions]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/07/u-s-opera-ds-web-browser-impressions/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/07/u-s-opera-ds-web-browser-impressions/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/07/u-s-opera-ds-web-browser-impressions/#commentsFiled under: , ,

A forum member at NeoGAF recently posted impressions of the Opera DS browser just released in the US. Some early rumors suggested this version would support both Flash and Java, features missing in the Japanese and European releases. Unfortunately the rumors turned out to be nothing more than wishful thinking and the U.S. browser is just as crippled as the others.

The browsing interface is intuitive (and snazzy if you ask us), with handwriting recognition, bookmarks, and excellent use of both screens. With image loading turned on it takes upwards of a minute to load most web pages. Not exactly our idea of a good time. The verdict: excellent for quick on-the-go info-checks, but with so many other devices offering web access these days, the DS browser doesn't offer anything revolutionary.

JoystiqU.S. Opera DS web browser impressions originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Jun 2007 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserdsdsliteinternetnintendoonlineoperawebwebbrowsingThu, 07 Jun 2007 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Red Steel 2 online 'confirmed']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/21/red-steel-2-online-confirmed/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/21/red-steel-2-online-confirmed/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/21/red-steel-2-online-confirmed/#commentsFiled under:

Ubisoft posted a job announcement looking for an online programmer for Wii projects. The listing states that the job is in their "Production Studio in Paris, where Red Steel and Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter games have been developed."

It seems kind of likely that this involves Red Steel 2, which was itself basically announced via job listing, but let's not get out our Jump to Conclusions Mats. Yes, slicing your friends up online would be pretty great. But Ubisoft works on a lot of games other than Red Steel, and there are a lot of things you can do online that aren't playing games, as Nintendo has ably demonstrated with every Wii channel.

[Via NeoGAF]

JoystiqRed Steel 2 online 'confirmed' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 May 2007 12:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>internetjobnintendonintendo wiiNintendoWiionlineredred steelRedSteelrumorrumorssteelubisoftwiiMon, 21 May 2007 12:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Making PSP friendlier to Web 2.0 sites]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/23/making-psp-friendlier-to-web-2-0-sites/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/23/making-psp-friendlier-to-web-2-0-sites/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/23/making-psp-friendlier-to-web-2-0-sites/#commentsFiled under:

Games Digest recently tested the PSP web browser to find out how compatible it was with popular Web 2.0 sites. The browser did fairly well in rendering many sites, such as amazon, Facebook, Flickr, Gmail, and Twitter. However, there were many other sites that experienced issues, some crippling enough to make the site unusable.

There are alternatives, though. My personal PSP browser is filled with bookmarks that point to mobile versions of sites. These versions are usually intended for cell phones, but their minimalistic design is guaranteed to work on PSP--and quickly, too. For example, loading the Mobile version of PSP Fanboy (m.pspfanboy.com) allows me to check for the latest updates on the site while I'm on the go. It may not have all the functions I want (such as comments), but it works really well on PSP.

We found some mobile versions of sites that Games Digest tested. While the PSP browser may not be able to handle all pages well, it's certainly a useful (and free) addition to the system that's easy to appreciate. It may take some work, but if there are problems with a site you like to visit, check to see if there's a Mobile version. See some examples, after the break.

Continue reading Making PSP friendlier to Web 2.0 sites

JoystiqMaking PSP friendlier to Web 2.0 sites originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Apr 2007 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browsergames digestGamesDigestinternetmobileweb 2.0Web2.0Mon, 23 Apr 2007 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Opera browser showdown with the PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/17/final-opera-browser-showdown-with-the-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/17/final-opera-browser-showdown-with-the-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/17/final-opera-browser-showdown-with-the-ps3/#commentsFiled under: , ,

It's hot.
So we're pretty happy with the Wii browser, and apparently you guys are too. Still, it's not a PC, and there are sites out there with whom our Opera browser doesn't play happily. It only features Flash 7.0, after all, and Java is a no-go. Still, can it handle some of the most popular sites out there? Games Digest takes the Wii browser on a spin through fifteen of the most popular sites in today's intertubes, and compares its performance with the PS3's built-in browser. We won't spoil the outcome.

We're actually quite surprised at the Wii's performance at Last.fm, essentially radio over the internet. If you've got a killer sound system hooked up to your TV, you can set the jams on high and rock out. Just like we do. Check out which sites are Wii-friendly, and which not! You might be surprised.

JoystiqFinal Opera browser showdown with the PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Apr 2007 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BrowserFinalInternetLastFMOperaRadioSitesStreamingTue, 17 Apr 2007 20:00:00 EST