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[Xbox 360 Platinum Hits lineup adds Halo Wars, Orange Box and others]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/14/xbox-360-platinum-hits-lineup-adds-halo-wars-orange-box-and-oth/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/14/xbox-360-platinum-hits-lineup-adds-halo-wars-orange-box-and-oth/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/14/xbox-360-platinum-hits-lineup-adds-halo-wars-orange-box-and-oth/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Xbox.com has listed several new games as Platinum Hits, including Fable II (aka Game of the Year Edition), Halo Wars, Left 4 Dead, The Orange Box, Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts, Ninja Gaiden II, Kung-Fu Panda, Sonic's Ultimate Genesis Collection, Sonic The Hedgehog, and Sonic Unleashed.

A Microsoft PR agent couldn't confirm the full list of new Platinum Hits (are we missing any above?), but said that if a game is listed as such on Xbox.com, it's a Platinum Hits title. The changes seem to have taken effect on major retailer sites, as GameStop and Amazon now reflect the discounted Platinum prices (if not always the the Platinum Hits branding), which range from $20-30.

With Orange Box requiring only one Jackson ($20), it's now literally a crime to not own it. Conversely, if you're dead-set on committing a crime, buy someone Sonic The Hedgehog or Sonic Unleashed at $20 each.

[Thanks, Stephen]

JoystiqXbox 360 Platinum Hits lineup adds Halo Wars, Orange Box and others originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Jan 2010 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActionAdventurebanjo-kazooieBanjo-Kazooie-Nuts-and-Boltsensemble-studiosfable-2halohalo-warskung-fu-pandaleft-4-deadLionheadLionhead-StudiosMGSMicrosoftMicrosoft-Game-StudiosNinja-GaidenNinja-Gaiden-2platinum-hitsrareRPGsegasonicsonic-the-hedgehogsonic-unleashedsonics-ultimate-genesis-collectionTeam-NinjaXbox-360Thu, 14 Jan 2010 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[THQ gains exclusive rights to Dreamworks game tie-ins]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/02/thq-gains-exclusive-rights-to-dreamworks-game-tie-ins/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/02/thq-gains-exclusive-rights-to-dreamworks-game-tie-ins/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/02/thq-gains-exclusive-rights-to-dreamworks-game-tie-ins/#comments
THQ is no stranger to producing accessible, fun-for-the-whole-family entertainment and has just inked a deal to acquire exclusive rights to Dreamworks game tie-ins worldwide. This agreement will see THQ produce three titles initially: Kung-Fu Panda 2: The Kaboom of Doom; a game based on upcoming Shrek spin-off, Puss in Boots; and a title based on the animated TV series, The Penguins of Madagascar. That last one sounds a lot more interesting than a game based on Morgan Freeman's penguins, though we must admit, a game based on the French version of that would be fantastique.

But, we digress. THQ also gains rights for "Xbox Live Arcade, PlayStation Network and Nintendo Wii Virtual Console" -- we guess THQ has never heard of WiiWare? The first title to release as a part of this deal, The Penguins of Madagascar, will grace store shelves starting next year, while the other games will release alongside their theatrical counterparts in 2011.

JoystiqTHQ gains exclusive rights to Dreamworks game tie-ins originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dreamworksDSkung-fu-pandakung-fu-panda-the-kaboom-of-doomMicrosoftNintendopuss-in-bootsthe-penguins-of-madagascarthqWiiXbox-360Wed, 02 Dec 2009 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mega $350 Xbox 360 holiday bundle at Sam's Club]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/24/mega-350-xbox-360-holiday-bundle-at-sams-club/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/24/mega-350-xbox-360-holiday-bundle-at-sams-club/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/24/mega-350-xbox-360-holiday-bundle-at-sams-club/#commentsFiled under: ,


If you're looking to get an Xbox 360 this holiday and aren't concerned about having the latest M-rated games, Sam's Club (Wal-Mart's warehouse retail chain) has a big ol' bundle available soon. Members will be able to purchase a 60GB Xbox 360, Lego Indiana Jones, Kung Fu Panda and Guitar Hero III (with wireless guitar) for $350. We contacted the company to double check that it wasn't a typo and, sure enough, we were told it was accurate. The bundle should start arriving in November-- there's no specific date for it being in stores, so call ahead.

While we're talking Sam's Club, we've also been told all Guitar Hero III bundle prices have been reduced (we've placed details after the break). We were also informed that the store, along with Wal-Mart, will have a limited edition "dragon" controller (no picture currently available), bundled with a black headset, for $60. We'll keep an eye out for other deals as we approach the holidays.

Update: Adjusted text for Lego Indy and Kung Fu Panda being offered with the standard system.

Continue reading Mega $350 Xbox 360 holiday bundle at Sam's Club

JoystiqMega $350 Xbox 360 holiday bundle at Sam's Club originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Oct 2008 12:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bundlegh-iiiguitar-hero-iiikung-fu-pandalego-indiana-jonesmicrosoftsams-clubwal-martwalmartXbox-360Fri, 24 Oct 2008 12:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Xbox 360 holiday bundles to include family friendly games [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/07/rumor-xbox-360-holiday-bundles-to-include-family-friendly-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/07/rumor-xbox-360-holiday-bundles-to-include-family-friendly-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/07/rumor-xbox-360-holiday-bundles-to-include-family-friendly-games/#commentsFiled under: ,


Update: Swedish retailer Webhallen.com has the rumored Arcade, Pro and Elite holiday bundles for sale and pictured on their site. It's more proof, but we still have no "official" word from Microsoft. Thanks Dirty Whirlwind.

Just as was done last year, Microsoft may be looking to release special Xbox 360 packages that are bundled with a few free games to entice holiday console purchasers. And according to our insider Gamestop tipster, this holiday Microsoft will be bundling family friendly games with all three major 360 consoles.

We've been informed that the Xbox 360 Arcade model will come packaged with SEGA Superstar Tennis and both the Pro and Elite models will come bundled with Kung Fu Panda and LEGO Indiana Jones. Sadly, we don't have any picture proof of the new bundles or a solid release date, but we'll keep digging to see whether or not the holiday game bundling is legit. For now, we advise being optimistically skeptical.

[Thanks, Travisto]

JoystiqRumor: Xbox 360 holiday bundles to include family friendly games [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 Oct 2008 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eliteholiday-bundleskung-fu-pandalego-indiana-jonesprosegasega-superstar-tennisxbox-360Tue, 07 Oct 2008 09:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo Channel gets ripped with a manly demo (plus some others)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/nintendo-channel-gets-ripped-with-a-manly-demo-plus-some-others/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/nintendo-channel-gets-ripped-with-a-manly-demo-plus-some-others/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/nintendo-channel-gets-ripped-with-a-manly-demo-plus-some-others/#commentsFiled under: ,


It's Monday, again. Usually, we'd frown and mope about all day, what with it being the beginning of another week of tirelessly blogging and all, but Mondays are turning into more of a celebration for us. We get new gaming content every week on this day!

Nintendo has updated the Everyone's Nintendo Channel on the Wii to include some sweet demos this week, so if you're in the mood for something new to play, you'll find it here. Aside from last week's demos, you'll also find several new ones. Head on past the break for the list of new demos available.

Continue reading Nintendo Channel gets ripped with a manly demo (plus some others)

JoystiqNintendo Channel gets ripped with a manly demo (plus some others) originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Jun 2008 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contra-4crosswords-dsdemodemoshulkkung-fu-pandanintendo-channelthe-incredible-hulkwall-eMon, 23 Jun 2008 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Fanswag: Win 1600 MS Point codes and Ninja Gaiden 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/fanswag-win-1600-ms-point-codes-and-ninja-gaiden-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/fanswag-win-1600-ms-point-codes-and-ninja-gaiden-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/fanswag-win-1600-ms-point-codes-and-ninja-gaiden-2/#commentsFiled under:


This is the last day of our 3 day Microsoft Point extravaganza. Today we're really upping the ante. Today we have ten 1600 MS Point codes to giveaway and we're also throwing in Ninja Gaiden 2 for our grand prize winner! In honor of Ryu and his ninja skills, we thought it fitting to also giveaway his would-be nemesis, Kung Fu Panda, to our second prize winner (at least it has achievement points, right?). For your shot at one of the ten codes, Ninja Gaiden 2 and Kung Fu Panda, follow the instructions below.
  • Leave a comment on this post telling us what you would buy with 1600 Microsoft Points. We don't care if it's actually on the Marketplace or not.
  • Only one comment per person will be accepted. Posters of multiple comments will be disqualified. We'll accept entries until 6:00PM Eastern time today, June 20, 2008. You must be at least 18 years old to enter. This giveaway is open only to residents of the U.S. and Canada (excluding Quebec).
  • Later today, we'll pick 10 winners via a random drawing
  • One grand prize winner will receive a redemption code for 1600 Microsoft Points and a copy of Ninja Gaiden 2, worth a total of $80; one second place winner will receive a redemption code for 1600 Microsoft Points and a copy of Kung Fu Panda, worth a total of $60; and eight third place winners will each receive a redemption code for 1600 Microsoft Points, worth $20 each.
  • Complete giveaway rules can be found here

JoystiqFanswag: Win 1600 MS Point codes and Ninja Gaiden 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Jun 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fanswagkung-fu-pandang2ninja-gaiden-2team-ninjatecmoFri, 20 Jun 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Best Buy replenishes Wii Fit, Karate Kid stock]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/07/best-buy-replenishes-wii-fit-karate-kid-stock/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/07/best-buy-replenishes-wii-fit-karate-kid-stock/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/07/best-buy-replenishes-wii-fit-karate-kid-stock/#commentsFiled under:

Having trouble finding Wii Fit? Since the exercise game's launch, hardly any shops -- brick and mortar stores or online retailers -- seem to have copies on their shelves. According to this week's Best Buy circular, however, starting this Sunday, the chain's locations will have a minimum of 10 bundles to sell. If you're still looking for a console to play Wii Fit on, then you'll be happy to hear that Best Buy stores will have limited quantities of Wii systems in stock, too.

Also on Best Buy's circular: Get a free DVD of The Karate Kid when you buy a Kung Fu Panda game for [any] console (excluding the Nintendo DS version). Who would have ever imagined it?! A reason to buy the Kung Fu Panda game!

See also: Can't find Wii Fit? Here are some alternatives!


[Via CAG]

JoystiqBest Buy replenishes Wii Fit, Karate Kid stock originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 07 Jun 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionavailabilitybest-buydreamworkskarate-kidkung-fu-pandawii-fitxpecSat, 07 Jun 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WRUP: Summon the Hulk's Original Adventures edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/06/wrup-summon-the-hulks-original-adventures-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/06/wrup-summon-the-hulks-original-adventures-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/06/wrup-summon-the-hulks-original-adventures-edition/#commentsFiled under:


This week's release list looks pretty healthy, if you ask us. We've got some games for just about everyone, including an RPG, along with some action/adventure titles. Oh, and some licensed titles, for good measure.

So, what will you be playing this weekend? New game, or something in your collection? How do you plan on getting through this weekend with your DS?

JoystiqWRUP: Summon the Hulk's Original Adventures edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Jun 2008 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hulkkung-fu-pandalegolego-indiana-jonessummon-nightsummon-night-twin-agetwin-ageFri, 06 Jun 2008 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Shipping this week: Real Ultimate Power edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/shipping-this-week-real-ultimate-power-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/shipping-this-week-real-ultimate-power-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/shipping-this-week-real-ultimate-power-edition/#commentsFiled under: ,


It's finally here kids. Yes, it's the granddaddy of all ninja simulators, Ninja Gaiden. This particular entry in the series is somewhat anachronistically titled Ninja Gaiden II. We can tell you unreservedly (and from experience) that it is glorious in execution. It's also goriest in executions. Eviscerations abound as gamers take on the role of Ryu Hayabusa, the superest of all super ninjas. But wait, what's that? There are more games shipping this week and they don't all suck? Whoa. Imagine our surprise. Behold this week's list:
Which of these will grace your 360's DVD drive?

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqShipping this week: Real Ultimate Power edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Jun 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bourne-conspiracygridincredible-hulkkung-fu-pandalego-indiana-jonesninja-gaiden-2shipping-this-weekMon, 02 Jun 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii releases this week: LEGO Indiana Jones edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/wii-releases-this-week-lego-indiana-jones-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/wii-releases-this-week-lego-indiana-jones-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/wii-releases-this-week-lego-indiana-jones-edition/#commentsFiled under:


Most of this week's releases are movie-tie-ins, so if that's your kind of thing, then prepared to be very happy. For most of us, LEGO Indiana Jones is going to be the hot item available on store shelves. Anyone picking this up? Anxious to see how Traveller's Tales have added their hilarious spin on the first three Indiana Jones movies?
  • LEGO Indiana Jones
  • Cabelas Trophy Bucks
  • Kung Fu Panda
  • Incredible Hulk

JoystiqWii releases this week: LEGO Indiana Jones edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Jun 2008 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cabelas-trophy-bucksincredible-hulkkung-fu-pandalegolego-indiana-joneslucasartsreleasessegatravellers-talesMon, 02 Jun 2008 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[It's deals time! Bourne, LEGO Indy and more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/01/its-deals-time-bourne-lego-indy-and-more/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/01/its-deals-time-bourne-lego-indy-and-more/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/01/its-deals-time-bourne-lego-indy-and-more/#commentsFiled under:

You've been waiting for it and now it's finally here. It's Sunday deals time where we dig through the Sunday newspaper, pull out the retail ads for the week, toss the actual news part of the newspaper in the garbage, look for Xbox 360 deals and share with you our findings. It's always good times! So, let's get to the money savings fun ...

This week, Best Buy is offering Guitar Hero III for $75, a chance to buy an Indiana Jones DVD for $5 with the purchase of LEGO Indiana Jones, a free Bourne DVD with the purchase of The Bourne Conspiracy, $5 in concession money with Kung Fu Panda and they're still offering a free $50 gift card with purchase of an Xbox 360 console and GTAIV. Circuit City is giving out a free tshirt and a character unlock with LEGO Indiana Jones, a free Bourne DVD with the purchase of The Bourne Conspiracy, a free plush toy with Kung Fu Panda, Overlord for $15, a free Ryu wall graphix with Ninja Gaiden II and a $10 gift card with the purchase of either The Incredible Hulk or GRID. Finally, Target is giving away a $10 gift card with The Bourne Conspiracy. Phew!

As always, feel free to comment about any deals you find when you are on your own weekly Xbox 360 deal search. Happy shopping!

JoystiqIt's deals time! Bourne, LEGO Indy and more originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 01 Jun 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bargainsdealsgridguitar-hero-iiikung-fu-pandalego-indiana-jonesninja-gaiden-iioverlordthe-bourne-conspiracythe-incredible-hulkSun, 01 Jun 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Kung Fu Panda demo crane kicks the XBLM]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/01/kung-fu-panda-demo-crane-kicks-the-xblm/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/01/kung-fu-panda-demo-crane-kicks-the-xblm/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/01/kung-fu-panda-demo-crane-kicks-the-xblm/#commentsFiled under: ,

Animation, karate and panda lovers listen up. We have special news for you. DreamWorks' upcoming animated film Kung Fu Panda will be making its way to theatres in the near future and at the same time has spawned a Kung Fu Panda video game. And wouldn't you know you can try this animated, panda, karate Kung Fu Panda The Game right now, because there's a new (U.S. and Canada exclusive) demo on the XBLM. Happy panda kicking downloading.

JoystiqKung Fu Panda demo crane kicks the XBLM originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 01 May 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionkung-fu-pand-the-gamekung-fu-pandaxblmThu, 01 May 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Are you sitting down? Kung fu Panda revealed!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/12/are-you-sitting-down-kung-fu-panda-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/12/are-you-sitting-down-kung-fu-panda-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/12/are-you-sitting-down-kung-fu-panda-revealed/#commentsFiled under:


In the midst of random industry non-news and other things of little importance comes three screens of the upcoming powerhouse action game, Kung fu Panda. Based on the upcoming movie of the same name, Kung fu Panda allows players to embark on an epic adventure as they master the specialized Kung Fu fighting styles of, title character, Po the Panda. OK, we'll stop pretending like this is Halo 4 but Activision has done well with their translations of G rated films in both sales and execution. While previous movie-based games will hardly win a gameplay award, they always look polished and fun. Also, we hear the points are pretty easy to get - so sign us up.

JoystiqAre you sitting down? Kung fu Panda revealed! originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Mar 2008 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionkung-fu-pandaluxofluxWed, 12 Mar 2008 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Activision's 2008 promises more Guitar Hero, James Bond, Spider-Man]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/08/activisions-2008-promises-more-guitar-hero-james-bond-spider/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/08/activisions-2008-promises-more-guitar-hero-james-bond-spider/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/08/activisions-2008-promises-more-guitar-hero-james-bond-spider/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Activision's recent conference call didn't consist entirely of gloating about those record holiday-quarter sales, as the publisher also took the opportunity to outline some of its plans for 2008. It seems we're in for quite the party, albeit one where you'll actually remember everybody's name. Guitar Hero? James Bond? Tony Hawk? Spider-Man? Yeah, we've met.

According to a Variety report, the aforementioned party will see multiple performances by The Instrument Protagonists, due to promote two Guitar Hero "add-ons" in Spring and a full sequel in Fall. While party animals debate the game tie-ins to animated films Kung Fu Panda and Madagascar 2, suave gentleman will attempt to decrypt James Bond's film adaptation, Quantum of Solace. A roughly equal amount of solace will be found by the comic fans huddled around the punch bowl, as new Spider-Man and Marvel Ultimate Alliance games are expected to knock on the door at some point during the festivities.

Finally, don't expect Tony Hawk to be turned away (he's on the guest list), especially since he's bringing his friend ... uh ... Call of Duty? We honestly don't know where we're going with this analogy.

[Via The Cut Scene]

JoystiqActivision's 2008 promises more Guitar Hero, James Bond, Spider-Man originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Feb 2008 06:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>007ActivisionGuitar-HeroGuitar-Hero-IVGuitarHeroJames-BondKung-Fu-PandaMadagascar-2Marvel-Ultimate-AllianceMarvel-Ultimate-Alliance-2PS3Quantum-of-SolaceSpider-ManTony-HawkTonyHawkWiiXbox-360Fri, 08 Feb 2008 06:30:00 EST<![CDATA[It's a damn Kung Fu Panda]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/18/its-a-damn-kung-fu-panda/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/18/its-a-damn-kung-fu-panda/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/18/its-a-damn-kung-fu-panda/#commentsFiled under:


These days, it seems that when someone makes an animated film, someone else clearly has to come along and make a game, and even kung fu pandas aren't exempt from this rule. Though, considering that getting your beat on can be pretty fun in games, we hear, it might make sense in this case.

There's just one problem. Licensed games? Generally not so great. But that's okay. You can still take a moment to shake your head over these screenshots (or the movie's trailer), muttering, "It's a damn kung fu panda." Or maybe that was just our reaction.

JoystiqIt's a damn Kung Fu Panda originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Jan 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionkung-fu-pandalicensedmovieFri, 18 Jan 2008 16:00:00 EST