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[Best of the Rest: Scott's Picks of 2007]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/01/best-of-the-rest-scotts-picks-of-2007/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/01/best-of-the-rest-scotts-picks-of-2007/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/01/best-of-the-rest-scotts-picks-of-2007/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Odin Sphere (PS2)

Vanillaware's side-scrolling action RPG caught me completely off guard when it came out, but I fell instantly in love with the game's style. Practically everything about Odin Sphere is unique: the circular levels; the gigantic, beautifully-drawn sprites; the bizarre food-crafting mechanics. Toss in a healthy amount of Norse mythology, and you've got one damn fine, under-appreciated game. Here's hoping Vanillaware's upcoming Wii title is up to snuff.

Continue reading Best of the Rest: Scott's Picks of 2007

JoystiqBest of the Rest: Scott's Picks of 2007 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Jan 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActionAtlusbest-of-the-rest-2007catanDSGOTY-2007halo-3jam-sessionsjamsessionsodin-sphereodinspherepac-manpersona-3persona3planet-puzzle-leagueplanetpuzzleleaguepokemonportalPS2PS3rock-bandRPGShin-Megami-TenseiShin-Megami-Tensei-Persona-3VanillawareXbox-360Tue, 01 Jan 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[A year of Promotional Consideration]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/30/a-year-of-promotional-consideration/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/30/a-year-of-promotional-consideration/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/30/a-year-of-promotional-consideration/#commentsFiled under:



Promotional Consideration is a weekly feature about the Nintendo DS advertisements you usually flip past, change the channel on, or just tune out.

The titling of this post is a bit of a misnomer, as we didn't start this column until early July, so it's more of a "half-year of" piece. No, you jerks, the humor in us beginning our Promotional Consideration retrospective on a disappointing note isn't lost on us.

Still, with 26 articles now behind us, one every week since this feature's inception, we've written enough of these to develop a few that are actually worth reading. We've picked out our five favorite Promotional Consideration posts of 2007, carefully hiding them after the post break, that magical realm where anything seems possible.

Continue reading A year of Promotional Consideration

JoystiqA year of Promotional Consideration originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 30 Dec 2007 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bestbrainagebraintrainingbrandingcommercialeoyjamsessionsjoystiqfeatureskonamimagazinemy-word-coachpromotional-considerationpromotionalconsiderationsignubisoftSun, 30 Dec 2007 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[UK gets a price break on select DS games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/24/uk-gets-a-price-break-on-select-ds-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/24/uk-gets-a-price-break-on-select-ds-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/24/uk-gets-a-price-break-on-select-ds-games/#commentsFiled under:

UK gamers, you've got a heck of a sale going on. Select titles from online retailer Play.com have gotten their prices slashed, with free shipping on all titles purchased. Any games purchased won't get there before Christmas, sadly, but you will get one heck of a sweet deal. Perhaps you've shopped for everyone else and now it's time to treat yourself?

As far as good games you can get on the cheap, Drawn to Life (£12.99), Custom Robo (£14.99) and Jam Sessions (£17.99) are a few of the titles that are up for grabs. Not only that, but newer games like Call of Duty 4 (£17.99) are even getting in on the price cut action.

JoystiqUK gets a price break on select DS games originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 24 Dec 2007 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>callofduty4englandjamsessionsPlatformerprice-cutTHQukMon, 24 Dec 2007 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Wiimote hack for the air guitarist in all of us]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/26/new-wiimote-hack-for-the-air-guitarist-in-all-of-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/26/new-wiimote-hack-for-the-air-guitarist-in-all-of-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/26/new-wiimote-hack-for-the-air-guitarist-in-all-of-us/#commentsFiled under: ,



The idea of using the humble Wiimote to create music seems to have really fired the imagination of the hacking community recently. DJing WiiJing and drumming are already both possible with the waffly versatile controller and a bit of know-how, and now those of you who lack the funds for Guitar Hero III can get your virtual shred on for free.

Hacker Evan, maker of the Wiimote drum sampler we linked to exactly one paragraph ago, has developed software that allows users to play air guitar, simply by "strumming" the Remote while holding down the d-pad to alternate between chords, or the B button to toggle between major and minor chords. As Evan points out, this has a similar feel to Jam Sessions on the Nintendo DS, which is far from a bad thing if you ask us.

[Thanks, Evan!]

JoystiqNew Wiimote hack for the air guitarist in all of us originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Nov 2007 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bluetoothdjdrumguitarguitar-hero-iiiguitarheroiiijam-sessionsjamsessionsmusicvideowii-remotewiimoteMon, 26 Nov 2007 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Today's most vulgar videos: Jam Sessions' instant rockstar]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/19/todays-most-vulgar-videos-jam-sessions-instant-rockstar/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/19/todays-most-vulgar-videos-jam-sessions-instant-rockstar/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/19/todays-most-vulgar-videos-jam-sessions-instant-rockstar/#commentsFiled under: , ,


The North American marketing for DS guitar simulator Jam Sessions has been pretty low-key, comprised of a MySpace page, uninspired print ads, and a bevy of videos showing real artists using the non-game to play fake guitar.

Off the charts, then, are New Zealand's excellent television spots for the title, which emphasize how having Jam Sessions in your DS repertoire can transform you into an instant rockstar. According to the ads, being an instant rockstar involves hitting on your buxom aunt, and cursing out your mum for baking you the wrong birthday cake. Honestly, the things those New Zealanders can get away with on television!

If we haven't made it abundantly clear, these videos are definitely not-safe-for-work material. Catch all the raunchy, raucous action after the break (and not a single shot of gameplay, either!).

Continue reading Today's most vulgar videos: Jam Sessions' instant rockstar

JoystiqToday's most vulgar videos: Jam Sessions' instant rockstar originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Nov 2007 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DShottest-videohottestvideojam-sessionsjamsessionsmarketingmusicnew-zealandnewzealandnsfwubisoftvotdMon, 19 Nov 2007 00:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Promotional Consideration: Party Like a Rock Star]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/18/promotional-consideration-party-like-a-rock-star/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/18/promotional-consideration-party-like-a-rock-star/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/18/promotional-consideration-party-like-a-rock-star/#commentsFiled under:



Promotional Consideration is a weekly feature about the Nintendo DS advertisements you usually flip past, change the channel on, or just tune out.

This marks the third time we've featured Ubisoft's Jam Sessions in our Promotional Consideration column, but these latest ads for the New Zealand market are the best ones yet. We're not going to ruin their illicit content for you before you've had a chance to watch these not-safe-for-work commercials yourselves, so hurry past the break and see what all the kids are nattering about at recess.

Continue reading Promotional Consideration: Party Like a Rock Star

JoystiqPromotional Consideration: Party Like a Rock Star originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 18 Nov 2007 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>incestjam-sessionsjamsessionsnew-zealandnsfwplatopromotional-considerationpromotionalconsiderationrock-starubisoftSun, 18 Nov 2007 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Promotional Consideration: Santeria]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/14/promotional-consideration-santeria/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/14/promotional-consideration-santeria/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/14/promotional-consideration-santeria/#commentsFiled under:

Promotional Consideration is a weekly feature about the Nintendo DS advertisements you usually flip past, change the channel on, or just tune out.

It physically pained us to see Ubisoft's print campaign and European boxart for Jam Sessions, but the publisher came through with its commercial for the recently-released guitar sim. The 30-second spot is broken up into three scenes of alleged teenagers playing and enjoying the game, all of them singing along to Sublime's "Santeria," a track that isn't actually included on the Jam Sessions cart. It's a catchy tune, one we're sure you've heard many times on the radio, and we can see why it was picked for the piece. Continue past the jump for the commercial and this week's installment of Promotional Consideration.

Continue reading Promotional Consideration: Santeria

JoystiqPromotional Consideration: Santeria originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 14 Oct 2007 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>commercialguitarjam-sessionsjamsessionsmusicplatopromotional-considerationpromotionalconsiderationsanteriasublimeubisoftSun, 14 Oct 2007 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Ubisoft looking for Jam Sessions musicians]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/09/ubisoft-looking-for-jam-sessions-musicians/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/09/ubisoft-looking-for-jam-sessions-musicians/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/09/ubisoft-looking-for-jam-sessions-musicians/#commentsFiled under:


Up until October 23rd, those who're able to construct their own tunes, complete with vocals, in Ubisoft's Jam Sessions have the chance to win a trip to New York city. There, 2 winners will perform live on Fuse TV. All one has to do is upload a video of themselves performing their track to Ubisoft's YouTube page, where winners will be selected on November 6th.

So, any of our fine readers plan on participating in this contest?

JoystiqUbisoft looking for Jam Sessions musicians originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Oct 2007 12:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contestjam-sessionsjamsessionsubisoftTue, 09 Oct 2007 12:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Ubisoft looking for Jam Sessions musicians]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/08/ubisoft-looking-for-jam-sessions-musicians/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/08/ubisoft-looking-for-jam-sessions-musicians/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/08/ubisoft-looking-for-jam-sessions-musicians/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Ubisoft's quirky Jam Sessions is less a game and more an interactive toy in a vein similar to that of Nintendo's own Electroplankton, turning the Nintendo DS into a kind of minimalist guitar for virtual strumming. While its appeal may be decidedly niche, Ubisoft has now set about looking for people who are both skilled at creating music with the stylus as well as unafraid to torture entertain the general public with their voices for fun and prizes.

Between now and October 23, touch screen virtuosos can upload their Jam Sessions videos, which must include both lyrics and vocals, to Ubisoft's special Jam Sessions contest page on YouTube where they will be judged by the internet masses. Winners will be announced on November 6, with two people representing the winning entry making the trip to New York City to perform live on MTV lookalike, Fuse TV. Ubisoft urges musicians to keep this last bit in mind, as they "don't want to be responsible for your band breaking up," though imagining a musical act throwing down over an argument over who gets to go on national television to play Jam Sessions live on camera is hilarious and certainly something we'd pay to see.

[Via press release]

JoystiqUbisoft looking for Jam Sessions musicians originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Oct 2007 16:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contestDSguitarJam SessionsjamsessionsUbisoftyoutubeMon, 08 Oct 2007 16:56:00 EST<![CDATA[The Jam Sessions bundle-within-a-bundle]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/05/the-jam-sessions-bundle-within-a-bundle/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/05/the-jam-sessions-bundle-within-a-bundle/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/05/the-jam-sessions-bundle-within-a-bundle/#commentsFiled under:

The Jam Sessions Performance Bundle, with its included amplifier, was only kind of big. It was an "awesome" bundle, but not a "DUDE OMG AWESOME" bundle. If you want to give a loved one a "DUDE OMG AWESOME" gift this holiday season, GameStop may have the solution with their DS Lite Music Bundle.

Comprising a Polar White DS Lite, the Jam Sessions Performance Bundle, and a set of JAMMIN Guitar Picks, the set makes up a complete musical instrument (and a set of JAMMIN Guitar Picks). And it only costs $207.97, a savings of ... hey, wait! Nothing! This bundle is just three currently-available regular-priced items sold together! Well, even so, this would make a great gift for the musically adventurous.

JoystiqThe Jam Sessions bundle-within-a-bundle originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 05 Oct 2007 09:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bundlegamestopguitarjam-sessionsjamsessionsubisoftFri, 05 Oct 2007 09:50:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Fanswag: Win a copy of Jam Sessions]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/02/ds-fanswag-win-a-copy-of-jam-sessions/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/02/ds-fanswag-win-a-copy-of-jam-sessions/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/02/ds-fanswag-win-a-copy-of-jam-sessions/#commentsFiled under:


Are you strapped for cash after facing the deluge of awesome DS releases? We understand, and DS Fanboy is here to help. We've got three copies of Ubisoft's Jam Sessions, valued at $29.99, for three lucky readers, and we need to make sure they go to good homes. If you have the urge to get your strum on without giving up any cash, all you have to do is leave a comment on this post telling us what song you want to learn to play sometime between now and Sunday, October 7, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern. You may enter as many times as you'd like, so long as you always answer the question. On Monday the 8th, we'll select three lucky winners in a random drawing and ship off your free games. Does it get any better than that? We think not.

There are, of course, a few caveats. Winners must be both U.S. citizens and over the age of 18 (sorry, guys!). You can check out the full official rules here.

So ... what song will you be attempting?

JoystiqDS Fanswag: Win a copy of Jam Sessions originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Oct 2007 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contestDSFanswaggiveawayguitarJam-SessionsJamSessionsmusicUbisoftTue, 02 Oct 2007 16:40:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Fanboy Review: Jam Sessions]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/29/ds-fanboy-review-jam-sessions/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/29/ds-fanboy-review-jam-sessions/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/29/ds-fanboy-review-jam-sessions/#commentsFiled under:


Ubisoft's Jam Sessions isn't a guitar. It sounds kind of like one, and encourages you to play melodies with it that were written for guitar. There have even been guitar-pick-shaped styli designed to be used with the program. But don't think of it as a guitar. It's not even a "virtual guitar." It's certainly not a game either, and not in the way that Brain Age is a non-game, but rather in the way that the web browser is not a game.

Jam Sessions is a new, digital musical instrument that is every bit as innovative as Toshio Iwai's Tenori-On, with the added benefit of making sense to someone other than Toshio Iwai. It is endlessly configurable, ridiculously feature-rich, and easy to operate. It is potentially useful for traveling musicians, but is just as enjoyable for amateurs who just want to mess around and make some impromptu music.

Continue reading DS Fanboy Review: Jam Sessions

JoystiqDS Fanboy Review: Jam Sessions originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 29 Sep 2007 19:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>guitarjam-sessionsjamsessionsmusicnongamesubisoftSat, 29 Sep 2007 19:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Jam Sessions lets you play show tunes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/18/jam-sessions-lets-you-play-show-tunes/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/18/jam-sessions-lets-you-play-show-tunes/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/18/jam-sessions-lets-you-play-show-tunes/#commentsFiled under: ,

Fans of Firefly and Serenity (which, is all of you ... or else), we've got a nice little video for you. If you've picked up Ubisoft's Jam Sessions, then you too can play the theme song to Firely. It's actually quite simple.

And, you don't even need to have a ridiculous haircut, either!

JoystiqJam Sessions lets you play show tunes originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 18 Sep 2007 15:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fireflyjamsessionsserenityubisoftTue, 18 Sep 2007 15:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Creepy Jam Sessions audio clarified, un-creepified]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/18/creepy-jam-sessions-audio-clarified-un-creepified/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/18/creepy-jam-sessions-audio-clarified-un-creepified/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/18/creepy-jam-sessions-audio-clarified-un-creepified/#commentsFiled under: ,



Remember how we were so spooked out by last week's hidden message in Jam Sessions that we swore off haunted houses for the rest of our lives and ran home to eat pizza rolls, sans ghosts hovering over our heads? We haven't been that scared since, well, since we saw the game's European boxart! Oh, burn!

One of the programmers from Plato, Jam Sessions' developer, posted a video to explain the voice that seemed to be whispering, "Don't kill us," or "Forgive us," whenever users let the A6 chord play out. It's actually one of the recording engineers saying, "Tsugiikimasu," which is Japanese for "next," as in, "I'm going to play the next chord."

While that makes a lot of sense, it doesn't explain that tapping noise we hear on our bedroom window every night, nor does it clear up the moaning and creaky mattress sounds coming from the apartment above us. We think it might be the Chupacabra. Bring your ghost hunting gear past the post break for videos of the creepy message and Plato's explanation.

Continue reading Creepy Jam Sessions audio clarified, un-creepified

JoystiqCreepy Jam Sessions audio clarified, un-creepified originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 18 Sep 2007 12:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>guitarjam-sessionsjamsessionsplatosecret-messageubisoftTue, 18 Sep 2007 12:20:00 EST<![CDATA[WRUP: Drawn to jam edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/14/wrup-drawn-to-jam-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/14/wrup-drawn-to-jam-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/14/wrup-drawn-to-jam-edition/#commentsFiled under:

This week's releases included a little game by the name of Jam Sessions. Oh, and another called Drawn to Life. And we're not even including all of the wonderful releases hitting other territories. So, there's plenty of titles available to gamers looking for something new to play.

Will you get your jam on, or do you plan to release your inner artist? What will you be playing?

JoystiqWRUP: Drawn to jam edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 Sep 2007 12:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5th-CellActionDrawn-to-LifejamsessionsPlatformerTHQFri, 14 Sep 2007 12:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Konami codes and secret messages in Jam Sessions]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/13/konami-codes-and-secret-messages-in-jam-sessions/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/13/konami-codes-and-secret-messages-in-jam-sessions/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/13/konami-codes-and-secret-messages-in-jam-sessions/#comments

If you're one of those completists who felt Best Buy's blue fist closing around your wallet when Ubisoft announced exclusive songs for people who purchased Jam Sessions through the electronics retail giant, allay your fears!

It turns out that all you need to do to unlock the three bonus songs is enter a shortened version of the Konami code while in Free mode: Up, Up, Down, Down, Left, Right, Left, and Right. Those of you who've set the game up with left-handed controls should be able to enter the sequence with the ABXY buttons: X, X, B, B, Y, A, Y, and A.

The three extra tracks, in case you've forgotten, are the following:
  • Brad Paisley - "I'm Gonna Miss Her"
  • Jimi Hendrix - "Wild Thing"
  • Tom Petty - "Needles and Pins"
Speaking of hidden stuff, the murmur amongst murmuring folks seems to be an eerie message in Jam Sessions when you hit the A6 chord and hold it out. After a few seconds, you can hear what sounds like someone whispering, "Don't kill us." Other interpretations of the barely audible voice include "Forgive us" and "Oh god, this is sooooo creepy. What the hell, guys. What. The hell. Seriously ya'll, quit messin' around, this ain't a game. Let's get out of here and eat pizza rolls at my place."

Check past the post break for video and audio proof of the spine-tingling whisper. We guarantee that your spine will be tingled!

Continue reading Konami codes and secret messages in Jam Sessions

JoystiqKonami codes and secret messages in Jam Sessions originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 Sep 2007 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best-buyjam-sessionsjamsessionskonamikonami-codesecret-messageubisoftThu, 13 Sep 2007 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DS releases for the week of September 10th]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/10/ds-releases-for-the-week-of-september-10th/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/10/ds-releases-for-the-week-of-september-10th/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/10/ds-releases-for-the-week-of-september-10th/#commentsFiled under:

This is such a good week for releases that we're not sure if we'd rather be here at home or over in Europe, where DS owners can get a taste of Tingle this week! Not that we're displeased with the array of titles available anywhere, frankly. If only every week could be this week.

Except then we would be poor, and would require a very large cardboard-box-house in which to store our massive DS collection. Every rainstorm would see us huddled under a garbage bag in a futile effort to protect our babies. It's not a pretty picture.
  • Drawn to Life
  • Jam Sessions
  • Spelling Challenges and More!
  • Zoey 101: Field Trip Fiasco
Travel past the break to see what's out in the rest of the world this week.

Continue reading DS releases for the week of September 10th

JoystiqDS releases for the week of September 10th originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Sep 2007 15:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5th-CellActionDrawn-to-LifejamsessionsPlatformerreleasesseptemberspellingchallengesTHQtingleMon, 10 Sep 2007 15:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Wanna rock out? Jam Sessions bundle comes with mini amp]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/05/wanna-rock-out-jam-sessions-bundle-comes-with-mini-amp/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/05/wanna-rock-out-jam-sessions-bundle-comes-with-mini-amp/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/05/wanna-rock-out-jam-sessions-bundle-comes-with-mini-amp/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

It might not go up to 11, but the miniature amp included in an upcoming Jam Sessions bundle shows that Ubisoft is definitely taking their music simulator seriously.

The "Performance Bundle" -- which includes a First Act-branded mini amp -- will retail for $69.99 USD, but won't be out until November 1st, despite the game being released next Tuesday. The bundle's a clever move by Ubisoft to appeal to the more earnest musicians with their product. Now all we need is Guitar Center to start stocking the non-game.

[Via DS Fanboy]

JoystiqWanna rock out? Jam Sessions bundle comes with mini amp originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Sep 2007 10:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bundleDSguitarjamsessionsmusicubisoftWed, 05 Sep 2007 10:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Jam Sessions Performance Bundle revealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/03/jam-sessions-performance-bundle-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/03/jam-sessions-performance-bundle-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/03/jam-sessions-performance-bundle-revealed/#commentsFiled under:

What's the perfect accessory for a pocket-sized guitar? A teeny-tiny amp, of course! Ubisoft is bundling their remarkable Jam Sessions software with a First Act mini-amplifier in a special "Performance Bundle." Even though the standalone game is coming out on the 11th of this month, you'll have to wait until November 1st for this package.

We hope this bundle signals the start of a big Christmas rush in terms of promotion by Ubisoft. Jam Sessions could easily become one of the more popular toys this holiday season, with the right advertising. It could also become one of the more annoying toys this holiday season, with the right amplifier volume settings.

JoystiqJam Sessions Performance Bundle revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 03 Sep 2007 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ampjamsessionsperformancebundleubisoftMon, 03 Sep 2007 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Play fake guitar at real band competitions]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/31/play-fake-guitar-at-real-band-competitions/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/31/play-fake-guitar-at-real-band-competitions/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/31/play-fake-guitar-at-real-band-competitions/#commentsFiled under:

Looking for a chance to play Ubisoft's Jam Sessions? So much that it's worth going to a high school band competition? No offense, high school marching band members, but given that we don't currently have any children in band, we really wouldn't have any other reason to go, and it would be awkward for someone to find out we were just there for the DS.

The surprisingly fun guitar simulator will be playable at the Bands of America regional championships in 20 cities, from September 15 to November 17. Apparently Music for All isn't concerned about a wave of teenagers casting their tubas and euphoniums aside in favor of DS Lites with some sampled guitar sounds-- but maybe they should be.

JoystiqPlay fake guitar at real band competitions originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 31 Aug 2007 13:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandjamsessionsmusicforallubisoftFri, 31 Aug 2007 13:10:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX 07 rock-on: Jam Sessions]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/27/pax-07-rock-on-jam-sessions/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/27/pax-07-rock-on-jam-sessions/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/27/pax-07-rock-on-jam-sessions/#commentsFiled under: , ,


When a friend alerted me that Ubisoft was demonstrating Jam Sessions near one of the lounge areas at PAX, I got over there ASAP. Jam Sessions has been one of my most anticipated DS games, and it's not even a game. In fact, it was one of the games I was really hoping to see at the show, because I am crazy about DS weirdness. I found a stage, upon (or near) which an Evil Avatar writer was strumming away, accompanied by an Ubisoft employee on bass and some guy who just showed up with a harmonica. The DS was running through a Fender amp, and sounded great. The greatest consideration for any musical instrument is how it sounds, and Jam Sessions is nearly indistinguishable from a real guitar. The guy playing had skill, as well, meaning that all in the handheld lounge were being treated to some very lovely improvised music. Until I took my turn, that is.

Continue reading PAX 07 rock-on: Jam Sessions

JoystiqPAX 07 rock-on: Jam Sessions originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 27 Aug 2007 02:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSguitarjamsessionspax07ubisoftMon, 27 Aug 2007 02:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Song list for Jam Sessions reveals Beck, Bob Dylan, and others]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/24/song-list-for-jam-sessions-reveals-beck-bob-dylan-and-others/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/24/song-list-for-jam-sessions-reveals-beck-bob-dylan-and-others/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/24/song-list-for-jam-sessions-reveals-beck-bob-dylan-and-others/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Ubisoft has announced the official track list for Jam Sessions, the DS guitar simulator known formerly as the hard-to-swallow Hiite Utaeru DS Guitar M-06.

Songs include Bob Dylan's "Like a Rolling Stone," Beck's "Jackass," and Coldplay's "Yellow." The 17 tracks feature a solid range from mainstream pop, to reggae, to good ol' rock & roll. Like M-06, Jam Sessions will step players through the chords of each song, allowing them to rock out with their whatevers out. Of course, Jam Sessions will still feature the free-play modes that made the original such a viral sensation. After an initial delay at the start of the summer, Jam Sessions is currently scheduled release on September 11th, and we can't wait for it. Check out the full song list after the break.

Continue reading Song list for Jam Sessions reveals Beck, Bob Dylan, and others

JoystiqSong list for Jam Sessions reveals Beck, Bob Dylan, and others originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Aug 2007 21:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsguitarjamsessionsm-06musicubisoftFri, 24 Aug 2007 21:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Jam Sessions contains Best Buy-exclusive songs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/22/jam-sessions-contains-best-buy-exclusive-songs/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/22/jam-sessions-contains-best-buy-exclusive-songs/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/22/jam-sessions-contains-best-buy-exclusive-songs/#commentsFiled under:


The song list for Ubisoft's Jam Sessions has been revealed, and it's pleasant enough to be worth checking out when you get tired of randomly making noises. There are some great selections, like "The Man Who Sold the World" and Bob Marley's "No Woman No Cry" as well as a lot of stuff that we're too old and lame to know anything about. There are a few songs like Beck's fantastic "Jack-ass" that don't seem to have that much guitar in them, which leads us to question their appropriateness for this game. On the other hand, it's (sheet music providing instructions for playing) a Beck song in a video game. That's awesome.

We also have to wonder how Ubisoft decided to categorize covers by artist: for example, "Life Is A Highway" on the card is billed as the Rascal Flatts version rather than the original Tom Cochrane version, and the aforementioned "The Man Who Sold the World" is billed as Nirvana and not David Bowie, despite the guitar arrangements being identical in both cases and therefore indistinguishable. Oh, right, marketing. We should learn not to think too deeply about these things.

Speaking of marketing, Ubisoft is including a bonus that is either awesome or infuriating, depending on your proximity to a Best Buy. Three exclusive songs will be on copies of the game sold at Best Buy, including Jimi Hendrix's "Wild Thing" (what were we just saying about the covers?). GameStop shoppers will get a preorder bonus that doesn't require a separate pressing of the game: a free subscription to Spin magazine. The full song list is available after the break.

Continue reading Jam Sessions contains Best Buy-exclusive songs

JoystiqJam Sessions contains Best Buy-exclusive songs originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Aug 2007 10:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bestbuygamestopguitarjamsessionsmusicubisoftWed, 22 Aug 2007 10:40:00 EST<![CDATA[The day the music died: Jam Sessions' EU boxart]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/03/the-day-the-music-died-jam-sessions-eu-boxart/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/03/the-day-the-music-died-jam-sessions-eu-boxart/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/03/the-day-the-music-died-jam-sessions-eu-boxart/#commentsFiled under:

We were kind enough to call out the emperor on his new clothes, tapping Ubisoft's shoulder and explaining how we felt about its awful Jam Sessions advertisement, but the company ignored our advice and went on to use the promotional photo for the game's packaging art across the Atlantic. In short, Jam Sessions' European boxart is absolutely repulsive.

It's already unfortunate that all titles under the PEGI's rule must bear the rating system's unsightly standard, but Jam Sessions' cover has to also suffer this guy's contorted expression. As excited as we are about the guitar trainer, we can't believe Ubisoft would use this for its boxart. Jump past the break to compare the design with Jam Sessions' North American and Japanese covers.

Continue reading The day the music died: Jam Sessions' EU boxart

JoystiqThe day the music died: Jam Sessions' EU boxart originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Aug 2007 12:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boxartguitarjamsessionspackagingpegiubisoftFri, 03 Aug 2007 12:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Actual talent not required for Jam Sessions]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/26/actual-talent-not-required-for-jam-sessions/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/26/actual-talent-not-required-for-jam-sessions/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/26/actual-talent-not-required-for-jam-sessions/#commentsFiled under:

While Jam Sessions' print advertisements leave much to be desired, Ubisoft has otherwise done a great job hyping up the guitar sim with videos of people who aren't complete tools. Our favorite demonstration clip we've seen so far was the one that accompanied Ubisoft's localization announcement, in which producer Carl Delallana strummed Tom Petty's "Free Fallin'."

Carl has returned again with another promotional short to remind us that you don't need to already be a musician to enjoy Jam Sessions; there are plenty of included tutorials and lessons that'll have you rockin' out in no time. Stage dive past the post break for the embedded movie.

Continue reading Actual talent not required for Jam Sessions

JoystiqActual talent not required for Jam Sessions originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Jul 2007 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jamsessionsubisoftThu, 26 Jul 2007 17:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Jam Sessions gets the demo treatment]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/16/jam-sessions-gets-the-demo-treatment/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/16/jam-sessions-gets-the-demo-treatment/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/16/jam-sessions-gets-the-demo-treatment/#commentsFiled under:

Advertising for Jam Sessions may be somewhat less than good, but that doesn't make the title less worthwhile -- nor does it detract from this hilarious E3 demo! We've tucked it away after the jump, but first you have to run the screenshot gauntlet. We're bad, bad people.

We do find some of the screens a little disturbing, however. Is that redheaded chick puking? We really only need so much rock-and-roll realism in our video games, thanks ....

Continue reading Jam Sessions gets the demo treatment

JoystiqJam Sessions gets the demo treatment originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 16 Jul 2007 13:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demoe3e307galleryguitarjam sessionsJamSessionsmusicscreensubisoftvideoMon, 16 Jul 2007 13:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Promotional Consideration: Come As You Are]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/15/promotional-consideration-come-as-you-are/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/15/promotional-consideration-come-as-you-are/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/15/promotional-consideration-come-as-you-are/#commentsFiled under:

Promotional Consideration is a weekly feature about the Nintendo DS advertisements you usually flip past, change the channel on, or just tune out.

If you missed our spotlight on Leo Burnett's "Communion Day" ad last Sunday, make sure to give it a glance. Even if you've already skimmed through our words on the award-winning piece, we've updated our summation with some insight from art director Rosemary Collini Bosso.

This weekend's installment of Promotional Consideration takes a critical eye to an unconvincing ad that might actually drive away consumers. Read on for more details.

Continue reading Promotional Consideration: Come As You Are

JoystiqPromotional Consideration: Come As You Are originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 15 Jul 2007 15:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adadsadvertisementadvertisementsconsiderationdsguitarguitarsjam sessionsJamSessionsmagazinenintendonintendo dsnintendo powerNintendoDsNintendoPowernokiapenny arcadePennyArcadeplatopromotionalpromotional considerationPromotionalConsiderationubisoftSun, 15 Jul 2007 15:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Conjecture Countdown: One more day!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/10/conjecture-countdown-one-more-day/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/10/conjecture-countdown-one-more-day/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/10/conjecture-countdown-one-more-day/#commentsFiled under:



With only one more day of waiting before the debut of the diminished E3, we've decided to get serious and offer up some real predictions about what we will -- and won't -- see at the show. Check after the jump for the breakdown, by writer, of the good, the bad, and the ugly sides of our E3 hopes and fears.

Continue reading Conjecture Countdown: One more day!

JoystiqConjecture Countdown: One more day! originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Jul 2007 10:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brain age 2BrainAge2cake maniaCakeManiacasual gamesCasualGamese3e307e3ccelf bowlingElfBowlingenamel navyEnamelNavygloss silverGlossSilverice blueIceBluejam sessionsJamSessionsphantom hourglassPhantomHourglasrumorTue, 10 Jul 2007 10:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Jammin' Guitar Pick stylus lets us shred our touch screens]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/07/jammin-guitar-pick-stylus-lets-us-shred-our-touch-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/07/jammin-guitar-pick-stylus-lets-us-shred-our-touch-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/07/jammin-guitar-pick-stylus-lets-us-shred-our-touch-screens/#commentsFiled under:

We've seen a GameStop.com listing for a product called the "Jammin' Guitar Pick" for a while, but we've been patiently waiting for a picture to show up. Today, one day before the product's release, one has surfaced. It's a very simple idea: a guitar pick with a stylus stuck to it, and it comes in a pack of three for $8. Oddly, the pointier part of the pick doesn't appear to be the part where the stylus is attached.

We're just thrilled that someone at Naki thought Jam Sessions was going to be big enough to call for its very own third-party accessory. Too bad the picks are coming out just as word comes out of the game's delay. We're thinking about picking up the accessory now in anticipation, and so we can pretend we're giving one of them sexy solos while we're playing Meteos.

JoystiqJammin' Guitar Pick stylus lets us shred our touch screens originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Jun 2007 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ubisoft's Jam Sessions, which would officially be our personal most-anticipated game if it were a game, was originally slated for a summer release in both Europe and the US. It was going to be a beautiful summer of trying to play metal on a fake acoustic guitar. But fate (or Ubisoft; the two are interchangeable) had other plans.

Cubed3 reports that Ubisoft has confirmed a delay for the European release of Plato's guitar simulator, to September 28th. We don't have an official word on the US version, but GameStop lists the release date as September 11th, which is corroborated by Ubisoft's website. How long does it take to translate guitar notes?

JoystiqJam Sessions delayed until September originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jun 2007 10:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsds liteDsLiteguitarjamjam sessionsJamSessionsnintendonintendo dsNintendoDsnon-gamenongamessessionsubisoftWed, 06 Jun 2007 10:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo Media Summit: Jam Session impressions (DS)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/28/nintendo-media-summit-jam-session-impressions-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/28/nintendo-media-summit-jam-session-impressions-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/28/nintendo-media-summit-jam-session-impressions-ds/#commentsFiled under: ,

One of the many quirky little games on display at last week's Nintendo Media Summit was Ubisoft's Jam Sessions for the DS. The title is described as a "music experience" that turns the DS into a guitar that musicians of any level can use to improve their skills. It also allows for players to create their own songs by strumming the touchscreen and selecting chords with the d-pad, or play along with popular songs for practice. It even allows for you to save anything you play, a nice little touch for when you really rock it out.

It's kind of hard to call Jam Sessions a game -- in fact, it's impossible. That's not saying it's a bad thing though; it displays Nintendo's push to expand the software line-up on the DS beyond the core gaming market. It just makes it harder to approach the title from a preview perspective. There's no story to talk about, no real graphics to talk about, no real gameplay, yet it still remains a fascinating piece of software.

Gallery: Jam Sessions

Continue reading Nintendo Media Summit: Jam Session impressions (DS)

JoystiqNintendo Media Summit: Jam Session impressions (DS) originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 May 2007 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>GuitarHeroJamSessionsnms07ubisoftMon, 28 May 2007 16:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Friday Video: NMS round-up edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/25/friday-video-nms-round-up-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/25/friday-video-nms-round-up-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/25/friday-video-nms-round-up-edition/#commentsFiled under:

This week, it's all about the Nintendo Media Summit, and we thought we'd wrangle all the videos into our weekly spotlight, even if it does get a little crowded in here. See what we're willing to sacrifice, just to bring you videos?

Okay, okay, you caught us. We like watching the videos too, so it's not much of a sacrifice at all. The overview is particularly nice, as we get footage and discussion of so many forthcoming Nintendo titles. Check 'em all out after the jump.

Continue reading Friday Video: NMS round-up edition

JoystiqFriday Video: NMS round-up edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 May 2007 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsffvjam sessionsJamSessionsnintendonms07picrossplanet puzzle leaguePlanetPuzzleLeaFri, 25 May 2007 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jam to these new Jam Sessions screens]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/23/jam-to-these-new-jam-sessions-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/23/jam-to-these-new-jam-sessions-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/23/jam-to-these-new-jam-sessions-screens/#commentsFiled under:

GameSpot got their grubby little mitts on some new screens for Ubisoft's upcoming rhythm-based game Jam Sessions. As you already know, we're pumped to get our hands on the final product, having seen video and screens of the game before. These latest screens don't show much in the way of new as far as the game goes, but having covered it for quite some time, we basically know what we're getting into by now.

You'll be able to get your jam on once the game releases come this Q3.

JoystiqJam to these new Jam Sessions screens originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 May 2007 14:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsdslitejamsessionslitenintendonintendodsnintendodsliteubisoftWed, 23 May 2007 14:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Just because: Jam Sessions video]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/28/just-because-jam-sessions-video/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/28/just-because-jam-sessions-video/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/28/just-because-jam-sessions-video/#commentsFiled under:

This Jam Sessions video is just too great -- we love the way it's shot, so that it looks like the guy is actually playing a guitar, and then ... oho! Behold, for it is a DS Lite.

What can't the DS do? We keep waiting for it to just take over the world. While we await our new DS overloards, hit the jump for the video.

Continue reading Just because: Jam Sessions video

JoystiqJust because: Jam Sessions video originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Mar 2007 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Now this is how you play Jam Sessions. Flickr user Mr. Atrocity and his girlfriend gave their DS systems (both Phat, and we're happy to see people sporting them) custom paint jobs-- his a replica of Eddie Van Halen's guitar finish, and hers a lavender with gold details.

Not only does the gallery contain pretty pictures of modded systems, but it is a great tutorial for spraypainting your own DS, which is exactly the kind of thing you should have a tutorial for, unless you want to play New Super B Button Is Stuck Down Bros. or Trauma Center: Under the Red Blob.

JoystiqWe're hot for the Van Halen-style DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Mar 2007 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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It's been a popular topic of discussion lately-- the DS guitar simulator/toy/thing that Ubisoft is surprisingly localizing for a US audience. For some of us, weirdly enough, it was the biggest story to come out of GDC. We're still actually not sure why Ubisoft, a company generally known to play it safe and never release anything that hasn't already been released on other systems, decided to pick up something that isn't even a game. A misguided attempt to jump on the Guitar Hero bandwagon, perhaps?

Whatever the reason, we heart Ubisoft for doing it. We haven't made any attempt to hide it: we are eager to try Jam Sessions. We want it to be out right now. We don't care that it isn't a game, or whatever.

So what about you commenters? Are you ready to strum-- but not solo-- on a virtual guitar doodad? Have you learned to stop worrying and love the non-game?

JoystiqDS Daily: We just want to talk about Jam Sessions some more originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 17 Mar 2007 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsds litedsddsliteguitarjamjam sessionjam sessionsjamsessionjamsessionslitenintendonintendo dsnintendodssessionsessionsubiubisoftSat, 17 Mar 2007 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Get your jam on with this Jam Session video]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/12/get-your-jam-on-with-this-jam-session-video/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/12/get-your-jam-on-with-this-jam-session-video/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/12/get-your-jam-on-with-this-jam-session-video/#commentsFiled under:


Maybe you thought, after first hearing about the game, that such a title would be near impossible to play effectively. For those of you wondering what the game might look like, we already covered that. Maybe you're the type of person who needs to see some video? Well, past the post break, we have got you covered.

Continue reading Get your jam on with this Jam Session video

JoystiqGet your jam on with this Jam Session video originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Mar 2007 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsdslitejamsessionslitenintendonintendodsnintendodsliteubiubisoftvideoMon, 12 Mar 2007 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[We love non-games now: Jam Sessions preview]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/10/we-love-non-games-now-jam-sessions-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/10/we-love-non-games-now-jam-sessions-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/10/we-love-non-games-now-jam-sessions-preview/#commentsFiled under: ,


We know Electroplankton sort of covered the musical DS toy thing, but we are so impressed with every aspect of Jam Sessions. It sounds great, it looks fun, the interface, while a little homebrew-looking, is just ... pleasant. Look at that floral background!

We now know a little more about Jam Sessions, like that it will come loaded with 20 licensed songs to play along with, complete with lyrics, and that your playing is limited to strumming rather than picking individual notes-- sorry, no solos. You can also change the sound of your guitar, adding distortion and delay effects. There's still no game attached, just songs you can play along with, or freeform strumming.

This game (well, toy) just goes so far against what usually gets released in the US in so many ways. It looks totally fun and totally relaxing.

Check out a couple of screens after the break.

[Via GoNintendo]

Continue reading We love non-games now: Jam Sessions preview

JoystiqWe love non-games now: Jam Sessions preview originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 10 Mar 2007 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsds liteDsLiteelectroplanktongitarguitarhiitejamjamsessionslitem-06m06musicnintendonintendo dsnintendo ds liteNintendoDsNintendoDsLitesessionsubisoftutaeruSat, 10 Mar 2007 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[From Eigo Zuke to Jam Sessions]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/09/from-eigo-zuke-to-jam-sessions/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/09/from-eigo-zuke-to-jam-sessions/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/09/from-eigo-zuke-to-jam-sessions/#commentsFiled under:

Newsweek's N'Gai Croal, who reported the news that Ubisoft would be localizing Hiite Utaeru DS Guitar M-06 as Jam Sessions, has posted an interview with Seth Delackner of Plato, the director of the "game". The story of how Delackner got to create a guitar simulator is pretty surprising: he was hired to program a sequel to the English training game Eigo Zuke.

But Nintendo decided to handle the programming themselves as they had for the first game, leaving Plato with a DS programmer, a DS development kit, and no projects. The team brainstormed new ideas, and came up with a music game.

As a demo, Delackner put together a little program that allowed the user to "strum" over a line on the touchscreen to play guitar samples. Plato loved it, Nintendo loved it, and Hiite Utaeru DS Guitar M-06 was born.

It's no secret that we love music games, so expect more on Jam Sessions as we hear it. We want the story on that beautiful, but random boxart.

JoystiqFrom Eigo Zuke to Jam Sessions originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 Mar 2007 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsds liteDsLiteguitarhiitejamjamsessionslitem-06m06musicnintendonintendo dsNintendoDssessionsubiubisoftutaeruFri, 09 Mar 2007 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ubisoft is going to publish Jam Sessions]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/08/ubisoft-is-going-to-publish-jam-sessions/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/08/ubisoft-is-going-to-publish-jam-sessions/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/08/ubisoft-is-going-to-publish-jam-sessions/#commentsFiled under:

Remember that Guitar-type game on the DS? Well, we're happy to inform that Ubisoft is going to be publishing the title stateside, allowing all of us to live the dream of being a rock star whilst still getting our gaming fix. It's like a delicious sandwich that is chock full of peanut butter (that would be Jam Sessions) and fluffer nutter (and that would be the DS Lite). Wait ... what would that make the bread, then? You? We didn't really think that through and are, honestly, kind of hungry right now ...

Grumbling stomach aside, the game will be releasing in June. For those unaware, the game turns the DS into a tiny guitar, where the stylus is used to pluck strings and create music. Using the d-pad and shoulder buttons, you can switch the tone of the notes you're playing, allowing for a wide variety of different tones from your virtual guitar.

JoystiqUbisoft is going to publish Jam Sessions originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Mar 2007 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsdsliteguitarguitargamejamjamsessionslitenintendonintendodsnintendodslitesessionsubiubisoftThu, 08 Mar 2007 16:00:00 EST