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[Sega still publishing for PS2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/31/sega-still-publishing-for-ps2/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/31/sega-still-publishing-for-ps2/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/31/sega-still-publishing-for-ps2/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

BusinessWeek interviews Simon Jeffery, chief operating officer at Sega of America, about the console transition and gamers' plans to upgrade hardware. Jeffery offers insight into Sega's thought process; he expects the PS2 to continue to sell well for at least another year.

Jeffery says that retailers have forced the GameCube and Xbox off shelves to make more room for the new hardware. However, he hasn't seen -- and doesn't anticipate -- the same fate for the PS2; the company will still release occasional PS2 games, although Jeffery says they'll be ports from the newest hardware.

Who's buying PS2s? Jeffery thinks they're secondary systems for PS3 and Xbox 360 owners, and the Wii may be competing directly with the PS2. But we wonder how many of those PS2 sales are by gamers who can't afford -- or find -- a PS3.

See also: PS2 to outsell newer consoles through next year?

JoystiqSega still publishing for PS2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 31 Dec 2006 20:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BusinessWeekGameCubelaunch06PS2PS3Sega of AmericaSegaOfAmericaSimon JefferySimonJefferyWiiXboxXbox-360Sun, 31 Dec 2006 20:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Designer: Xbox 360 may take third-place]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/22/designer-xbox-360-may-take-third-place/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/22/designer-xbox-360-may-take-third-place/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/22/designer-xbox-360-may-take-third-place/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

In his Designer's Notebook column, Ernest Adams compares the ways developers approach game design between the Wii and PS3. While well-argued, his analysis breaks down to input innovation (read: Wii) versus output innovation (read: PS3) that many writers have already considered. But in addition to that background, Adams tackles the question about how many -- and which -- consoles can succeed simultaneously. His tentative prediction: Wii and PS3 over the Xbox 360.

Adams thinks that the videogame market can support two consoles fighting for first place in addition to a distant third-place console. Nintendo has filled the third-place role since the N64, but because of the buzz and potential of the Nintendo's latest, Adams thinks that the Wii and the PS3 will lead the market. Why the snub for the Xbox 360? Its early launch may have hurt it more than anything, as techies will see the PS3 as the latest hardware, and casual gamers will like the variety and price-point of the Wii.

What about the games? The Microsoft lead has given its developers more time to take advantage of its hardware; the upcoming crop of Xbox 360 titles includes several standouts. Is that development time an important piece in selling hardware?

JoystiqDesigner: Xbox 360 may take third-place originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Dec 2006 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>console warConsoleWarlaunch06PS3third placeThirdPlaceWiiXbox-360Fri, 22 Dec 2006 17:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Analysts discuss 2006, console futures]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/19/analysts-discuss-2006-console-futures/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/19/analysts-discuss-2006-console-futures/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/19/analysts-discuss-2006-console-futures/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Gamasutra asks several industry analysts about this year and what they expect to happen in the next several years. The open-mic blurbs offer a few opinions, but many share the theme that Xbox 360 sales have been weaker-than-expected and PS2 sales are still significant; put together, these trends suggest that most gamers are still waiting for 360/PS3/Wii-only games before upgrading their consoles.

We also wonder how the HD-expectations of the PS3 and Xbox 360 impact the market; gamers with standard TVs will see little difference in graphic quality over the previous system. Are gamers slow to upgrade because they're waiting for the killer apps, or do they plan to first get an HDTV? At least 2007's anticipated exclusives -- especially for the oldest of the three, the Xbox 360 -- will ease one of those issues.

JoystiqAnalysts discuss 2006, console futures originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Dec 2006 21:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analystlaunch06predictionPS3WiiXbox-360Tue, 19 Dec 2006 21:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Dirty cops exposed: cut to front of PS3 line]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/07/dirty-cops-exposed-cut-to-front-of-ps3-line/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/07/dirty-cops-exposed-cut-to-front-of-ps3-line/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/07/dirty-cops-exposed-cut-to-front-of-ps3-line/#commentsFiled under: ,

crossing the line?A pair of greedy Rhode Island police officers have been accused of skipping the line that formed outside of Providence Place Mall's Sony Style retail store on PlayStation 3's launch day. Two security guards allowed the officers, along with five others, to move past those who had gathered earlier. The guards have since been dismissed from employment, and the officers now face punishments handed down by their respective police departments.

One of the officers has admitted to his superiors that he cut the line, but believes in using his authority to do so, he has done nothing wrong. "I just beg to differ. We think he did something very wrong," expressed a concerned Providence Police Chief Dean Esserman. "He's been identified and he's going to be disciplined."

The second officer, of Warick, is currently under investigation. "If the facts bear out these allegations, we will take disciplinary action against the officer," declared Warwick Police Chief Steve McCartney. If you were chief, how would you punish these jerks?

JoystiqDirty cops exposed: cut to front of PS3 line originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Dec 2006 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>launch06PS3Sony StyleSonyStyleThu, 07 Dec 2006 16:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Penny Arcade console wars in Wired]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/06/penny-arcade-console-wars-in-wired/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/06/penny-arcade-console-wars-in-wired/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/06/penny-arcade-console-wars-in-wired/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Penny Arcade comic from the December issue of Wired is now available online for freeloaders and people with short memories. The two-page comic presents a person from the distant future reminiscing about the PS3/Wii/Xbox 360 console war and other past-to-him-future-to-us events. Check it out to stave off withdrawal symptoms until your next hit of Penny Arcade.

JoystiqPenny Arcade console wars in Wired originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Dec 2006 18:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>launch06Penny ArcadePennyArcadePS3WiiXbox-360Wed, 06 Dec 2006 18:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Today's hottest game video: Wii in Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/04/todays-hottest-game-video-wii-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/04/todays-hottest-game-video-wii-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/04/todays-hottest-game-video-wii-in-japan/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Today's most-watched YouTube game video shows Japanese news coverage of the Wii launch, including a brief interview with Wiimote Guy. Non-Japanese speakers may like seeing some of the shots of the lines, people swinging Wii controllers around, and New Year's-like countdowns to Wii sales; other than that, the video relies on voice-over and man-on-the-street interviews.

See the video after the break.

Continue reading Today's hottest game video: Wii in Japan

JoystiqToday's hottest game video: Wii in Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Dec 2006 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>costumehottest videoHottestVideolaunch06linesWiiWiimote costumeWiimoteCostumeMon, 04 Dec 2006 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Onion skewers Wii and PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/30/the-onion-skewers-wii-and-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/30/the-onion-skewers-wii-and-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/30/the-onion-skewers-wii-and-ps3/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The Onion posts a hi-larious infographic comparing the PS3 and Wii in such categories as "ability to tear families apart" and ability to be a "parenting substitute." (Both consoles score "excellent" in the latter category.)

We would have added "reason you upgraded the TV." (PS3: Needed the full 1080p experience. Wii: Tried to show off home-run swing to first date and let go of the remote.)

What other headings -- and judgments -- would you add?

[Via N'Gai Croal's Level Up]

JoystiqThe Onion skewers Wii and PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Nov 2006 01:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>humorlaunch06PS3The OnionTheOnionWiiThu, 30 Nov 2006 01:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Walking out on PS3, waiting for Wii]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/27/walking-out-on-ps3-waiting-for-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/27/walking-out-on-ps3-waiting-for-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/27/walking-out-on-ps3-waiting-for-wii/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2old2play reminds us to buy consoles because we want them and the games, not because we're victims of hype. It seems simple enough, but the story describes a trip to a Toys 'R' Us in search of a Wii, only to find four PS3s instead. We can identify with the author's pit in his stomach while leaving the store empty-handed; the hype says this is the rarest, most sought-after console, so he wasn't sure if he was making a mistake by walking away.

These console choices are personal. Stay stronger than a company's ad budget, and pick the one -- or more -- that's right for you.

JoystiqWalking out on PS3, waiting for Wii originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 27 Nov 2006 21:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>launch06PS3Toys 'R' UsToys'r'UsWiiMon, 27 Nov 2006 21:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Console launch lineup scores compared]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/26/console-launch-lineup-scores-compared/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/26/console-launch-lineup-scores-compared/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/26/console-launch-lineup-scores-compared/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

1UP compiled a list of the best and worst games of modern console launches, including an average review score of each system's launch titles. This post updates a similar Next Gen article with just-released Wii and PS3 scores. The verdict? The Wii has the worst recent launch lineup, the PlayStation holds the all-time worst record, and the PS3 lands only two slots above the Wii.

While we had fun browsing the best and worst games, we'll keep in mind that this list means little. (1UP and Next Gen even have marginally different numbers.) All of the 1UP launch scores average in the 70-80 percent range, so none clearly represents the success or failure of a console; the Dreamcast comfortably sits in third place, with Soul Calibur as the highest ranked launch title for any system.

See also: Next-gen launch reviews projected

[Thanks, Embassy]

JoystiqConsole launch lineup scores compared originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 26 Nov 2006 22:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dreamcastGameCubelaunch lineuplaunch06LaunchLineupPS2PS3Soul CaliburSoulCaliburWiiXboxXbox-360Sun, 26 Nov 2006 22:45:00 EST<![CDATA[A Wii Thanksgiving test on the family: Part 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/25/a-wii-thanksgiving-test-on-the-family-part-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/25/a-wii-thanksgiving-test-on-the-family-part-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/25/a-wii-thanksgiving-test-on-the-family-part-2/#commentsFiled under: ,



My family gathers in northern Wisconsin each Thanksgiving; we all fly or drive across the country to reach this rural area away from TV reception and high-speed internet. We've always played games at these gatherings, and for the past three or four years, I've brought videogames. (We have a TV for DVDs and videotapes.)

In previous years, I lugged a GameCube and/or PS2 across two time zones. The most popular games have been unique or competitive titles; favorites have included Bomberman and Katamari Damacy. This year, I brought a Wii, and all the extra controllers I could find -- three Remotes and one Nunchuk.

Our Thanksgiving gathering is smaller than normal; we're missing a collection of cousins that regularly visit. But my parents, sister Alison, her boyfriend Zurich, and I have been playing the Wii, and this post documents our experience.

Continue reading A Wii Thanksgiving test on the family: Part 2

JoystiqA Wii Thanksgiving test on the family: Part 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 25 Nov 2006 09:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>familylaunch06MiithanksgivingThanksgiving testThanksgivingTestWiiSat, 25 Nov 2006 09:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Make a Wii component cable]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/22/make-a-wii-component-cable/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/22/make-a-wii-component-cable/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/22/make-a-wii-component-cable/#commentsFiled under: ,

Mere hours after the Wii launched with underpowered composite cables -- not even Y/C -- the distributed minds of the internet have figured out how to mod that connection into component; members of the NFG Games forum pulled off this smooth hack. Nintendo says its component cables are on the way, but can you just sit patiently and hope to buy them soon? 480p waits for no one.

The Wii end of the in-the-box cable doesn't have the full pin-outs that make the Xbox 360 cable a delight to mod. But, Macgyver it up a bit -- "acem77" on the NFG Forums used paper clips -- to add new pins. Follow the forum thread or wiki for signal and construction details.

See also: Add VGA to standard Xbox 360 cable

[Thanks, Vince Vu]

JoystiqMake a Wii component cable originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Nov 2006 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cablecomponentlaunch06modWiiWed, 22 Nov 2006 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview - Red Steel]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/21/metareview-red-steel/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/21/metareview-red-steel/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/21/metareview-red-steel/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Red SteelUbisoft's closely watched project has failed. True, Red Steel has likely enjoyed enough press to move units through the holiday, but critical reception is decidedly underwhelmed.

Ubisoft's would-be-grand FPS is still broke, dashing hopes that a third-party developer would 'get' Wii at launch. Instead, Nintendo's lust for innovation has again proved to be a hurdle for developers conditioned in the old ways. Give it time.
  • Game Informer (75/100) - "Aside from Zelda, Red Steel may be the most-anticipated Wii launch title. Unlike our boy in the green tights, this game's doesn't fully deliver on its promise ... Most of Red Steel's faults lie with the game's presentation. Enemies shout annoying obscenities in your direction during every firefight, the cheesy score is bad enough to incite chuckles, and the jaggy graphics look worse than many Xbox and PlayStation 2 games."
  • IGN (60/100) - "When we first started playing the title, we were prepared to score it in the low 5s because of the controls. Defenders may claim that the Wii is unable to simulate a faster, quicker aiming mechanic, which is untrue. Activision's Call of Duty 3 looks like a mess compared to Ubisoft's effort, but it is still the better shooter because its controls are much more responsive ... [We] think that there will be a lot of gamers who will completely ignore any control drawbacks and focus on the prettier visuals and varied play. But these people will be kidding themselves, for although Red Steel was born to use Wii's controller, it rarely uses it in a satisfyingly intuitive manner."
  • 1UP (50/100) - "[The] four-player splitscreen multiplayer, while somewhat fun, is sooo two gens ago. After playing games online, it's hard to revert back to the archaic act of herding four friends together in a room ... Don't be fooled into thinking Red Steel reinvents the FPS. It's nothing more than a ho-hum shooter with a creative but flawed gimmick stapled on."

JoystiqMetareview - Red Steel originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Nov 2006 22:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>launch06Red SteelRedSteelUbisoftWiiTue, 21 Nov 2006 22:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview - Mobile Suit Gundam: Crossfire]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/21/metareview-mobile-suit-gundam-crossfire/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/21/metareview-mobile-suit-gundam-crossfire/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/21/metareview-mobile-suit-gundam-crossfire/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

GundamLogic demands that each launch lineup will inevitably feature a "worst" title; the weakest link. This time around, Mobile Suit Gundam: Crossfire is that game (Genji has narrowly escaped this fate).

We pity thle poor fellow who errantly added Gundam to his launch day shopping cart; or worse, the one who will be forced to feign appreciation after discovering this grotesque creation lurking beneath the wrapping paper. Please folks, inform your potential holiday gift-givers.
  • GameSpot (39/100) - "Even if you could get past the horrid frame rate problems, lackluster presentation, and lack of online multiplayer, the gameplay in Crossfire is practically identical to the half-dozen or more Gundam games that appeared on the PlayStation 2. If you're looking for a game to show off what your PlayStation 3 is capable of, Mobile Suit Gundam: Crossfire should be your last choice of all the launch titles."
  • Game Informer (38/100) - "Imagine that you've worked hard and saved for years, and finally bought the luxury sports car of your dreams. You open the door and get in for the first time, carefully adjust the mirrors, program the radio and then, once you're comfortable, take a giant dump on the seat ... That's essentially what you're doing if you spend the money on a fancy new PS3 and choose this as your launch game of choice ... I have nothing positive to say about this game. I even hate the menu screen."
  • 1UP (20/100) - "So, the story is nonexistent, the gameplay is a joke, and the controls are unresponsive. Could Crossfire get any worse? Unfortunately, that's a resounding 'yes.' Poor level design cripples any hopes of enjoyment ... The game is an embarrassment to the Gundam name, and raises suspicions that it was rushed for the PS3 launch."

JoystiqMetareview - Mobile Suit Gundam: Crossfire originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Nov 2006 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>launch06MechMobile Suit Gundam: CrossfireMobileSuitGundam:CrossfireNamco BandaiNamcoBandaiPS3Tue, 21 Nov 2006 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii launch corrupted by fatal error '110213']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/21/wii-launch-corrupted-by-fatal-error-110213/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/21/wii-launch-corrupted-by-fatal-error-110213/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/21/wii-launch-corrupted-by-fatal-error-110213/#commentsFiled under: ,

yeah dude, fatalNintendo has begun replacing Wii units corrupted by fatal error 110213. An unknown percentage of users have been struck with the malfunction after attempting to download the WiiConnect24 update. Affected units will not be able to connect to Nintendo's online services and must be replaced.

Luckily, offline modes still function, giving you an opportunity to back up your Zelda progress onto SD before shipping the unit off to Nintendo's scrap yard. You do have an SD card, right?

[Via Engadget]

JoystiqWii launch corrupted by fatal error '110213' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Nov 2006 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fatal errorFatalErrorfirmwarelaunch06updateWiiWiiConnect24Tue, 21 Nov 2006 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Minute springs monitor controller motion]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/21/minute-springs-monitor-contoller-motion/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/21/minute-springs-monitor-contoller-motion/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/21/minute-springs-monitor-contoller-motion/#commentsFiled under: , ,

CNN reports on some of the motion-sensitive parts that make the PS3 and Wii controllers possible. These special sensors are based on tiny springs that make circuits when jolted, while sensitive meters measure the flow of electricity through the connection.

How tiny are the parts? The silicon pieces that flex against the springs weigh about a millionth of a gram. And they only move slightly when the controller shakes -- the distance of 10 to 100 hydrogen atoms -- but their position can still be measured.

The sensors have existed for years but were only recently cheap enough for games, at less than $1 per axis, making motion tracking the new arms race in game control. Will the 360 -- or next Xbox -- have motion control?

JoystiqMinute springs monitor controller motion originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Nov 2006 03:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>launch06motion controllsmotion trackingMotionControllsMotionTrackingPS3WiiTue, 21 Nov 2006 03:35:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 launch: Blast Factor impressions]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/20/ps3-launch-blast-factor-impressions/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/20/ps3-launch-blast-factor-impressions/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/20/ps3-launch-blast-factor-impressions/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Blast FactorComparisons between Blast Factor and Geometry Wars are unavoidable. In truth, Sony's downloadable games service launch title is more akin to PomPom's Mutant Storm Reloaded (Xbox Live Arcade) both in gameplay and price. We will say, of the three (Blast Factor, Geometry Wars, and Mutant Storm), Bizzare's $5 gem still trumps all in aesthetic and pace.

Where Blast Factor lacks style it makes up for with dynamic gameplay elements, including the most effective usage of Sixaxis's motion capabilities to date. While deceptively simple, the act of jerking the controller left or right to slosh around the liquid within each stage (corralling the enemies) typifies a clear advantage PS3 could have over Xbox 360 -- though the lack of rumble certainly damages the game's 'blast' factor. Other noteworthy devices include Blast Factor's auto-adjusting difficulty and enemy variation (players must discover how each class of baddie is defeated).

There are some quibbles that make Blast Factor's $9.99* price tag difficult to swallow. That each level (there are seven) contains an identical stage map, with each stage bordered by the same hexagon, is disappointing; that each level's boss is essentially identical is even more disappointing -- and puzzling, given that Bluepoint designed a decent range of non-boss foes. Still, we would have be willing to look past these faults if Blast Factor sustained that frantic whirlwind of action so elegantly composed in Geometry Wars. But it doesn't.

*Blast Factor is currently on sale for $7.99.

JoystiqPS3 launch: Blast Factor impressions originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Nov 2006 14:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Blast-FactorBluepoint-Gameslaunch06PS3PSNSCEASony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericaMon, 20 Nov 2006 14:55:00 EST<![CDATA[NY Times: The PS3 "isn't that great"]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/20/ny-times-the-ps3-isnt-that-great/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/20/ny-times-the-ps3-isnt-that-great/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/20/ny-times-the-ps3-isnt-that-great/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Seth Schiesel from the New York Times logged more than 30 hours with 13 games for the PS3 over the last week. His early verdict? Sony has failed to deliver on their promise and the new video game system "just isn't that great." He criticizes the lack of in-box HD cables, having to connect "wireless" controllers to the console for recognition purposes, and the difficulty playing custom playlists in games. He basically deems the 360 the better machine for now calling it a "powerful but intuitive system" likening the PS3 to a "brawny but somewhat recalcitrant specialized computer."

From the article: "Measured in megaflops, gigabytes and other technical benchmarks, the PlayStation 3 is certainly the world's most powerful game console. It falls far short, however, of providing the world's most engaging overall entertainment experience. There is a big difference, and Sony seems to have confused one for the other."

The man does praise multi-player battles in Resistance: Fall of Man, but even Joystiq's own Chris Grant, quoted in the same article, believes the console "doesn't feel finished." Granted, all newly launched systems have hiccups. The real factor is how the manufacturer handles said hiccups moving forward.

[Thanks to all who sent this in]

JoystiqNY Times: The PS3 "isn't that great" originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Nov 2006 14:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>launch06New York TimesNewYorkTimesNYTimesPS3Xbox-360Mon, 20 Nov 2006 14:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii FAQ with 44 answers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/19/wii-faq-with-44-answers/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/19/wii-faq-with-44-answers/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/19/wii-faq-with-44-answers/#commentsFiled under:

BFF, Engadget, blasted out a 44-point FAQ about the Wii. If you're still undecided on a Wii buy, the answers may help make a choice. Or if you have a Wii and run into trouble -- like it asks for a non-existent startup disc -- the FAQ offers tips. (Or in that startup case, it gives a shoulder to cry on.)

Not all of our questions were answered. (How many angels could fit on a Wii? Does it stay crunchy in milk? If the Wii were a tree, what kind would it be?) But Engadget pulls some tech-fu, trying to pair a controller with a computer as a Bluetooth device (result: recognized but not paired) and connect USB keyboards (result: not recognized). The full FAQ includes even more geeky goodness.

See also: FAQ: Answers to your PlayStation 3 questions

JoystiqWii FAQ with 44 answers originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 19 Nov 2006 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>launch06startup discStartupDiscWiiWii FAQWiiFaqSun, 19 Nov 2006 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Small town scores big Wii numbers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/19/small-town-scores-big-wii-numbers/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/19/small-town-scores-big-wii-numbers/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/19/small-town-scores-big-wii-numbers/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Chris McVeigh, one of our Canadian reader-moles, sent a detailed report about Wii sales in Bathurst, New Brunswick. McVeigh's small town of 15,000 is overflowing with Wii goodness; the local Wal-Mart stocked 96 Wii systems and is still long on remotes and nunchuks.

While the store sold its Wii consoles by noon -- McVeigh got one without any camp-out -- his story reminds us to search for remotes and nunchuks in rural areas; those stores may still have stock. Road trip to Bathurst, anyone?

[Thanks, Chris.]

JoystiqSmall town scores big Wii numbers originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 19 Nov 2006 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>controllerlaunch06linesnunchukwal-martWiiSun, 19 Nov 2006 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo's Wii launch party (Times Square, NYC)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/19/nintendos-wii-launch-party-times-square/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/19/nintendos-wii-launch-party-times-square/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/19/nintendos-wii-launch-party-times-square/#commentsFiled under:


We were joined by our friends at Engadget and Nintendo Wii Fanboy at the Times Square Toys "R" Us last night to partake in the midnight launch of Nintendo's little, white console. Eager fanboys and girls were wrapped around the entire block, from 45th St. down 8th Ave, to 44th St. and back up 7th Ave (peep Engadget's fancy map). When Reggie took the stage at 11:40 to preach to the choir, he said over 3000 people were lined up, but they were prepared with over 4000 consoles (we'd heard over 5000 and even over 8000 from various insiders). Everyone in line got a white wrist band guaranteeing them a Wii; however, not everyone got the baby blue Wii shirt and white knit-cap (things apparently got a little out of hand, so they stopped handing 'em out). We gathered a ton of pictures and video (coming soon) of the event, which you can hit up after the break. Any 'stiqers in attendance?

Continue reading Nintendo's Wii launch party (Times Square, NYC)

JoystiqNintendo's Wii launch party (Times Square, NYC) originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 19 Nov 2006 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Launchlaunch06NintendoTimes SquareTimesSquareToys R UsToysRUsWiiSun, 19 Nov 2006 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Console war: How Sony lost exclusives]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/18/console-war-how-sony-lost-exclusives/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/18/console-war-how-sony-lost-exclusives/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/18/console-war-how-sony-lost-exclusives/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Newsweek's N'Gai Croal describes the battle of the HD consoles with an emphasis on Microsoft, detailing the company's expectation to sell 10 million Xbox 360s before the PS3 launch. Microsoft revised the goal to 10 million units sold by the end of this year, and Croal isn't sure that'll even happen. The second and third parts of this three-part series consider why 360 software sales haven't yet boosted demands for the hardware and how Microsoft courted many titles away from PS3-exclusive status.

Croal says that Sony was too focused on Japanese developers and its national launch of the PS3 that its American and European divisions couldn't get developer negotiation approval from the Japanese mothership. Microsoft maintained contact with Rockstar and others through this Sony silence, scaring up Xbox 360 versions of third-party PlayStation mainstays. Apparently, Ubisoft wanted Assassin's Creed to be a PS3 exclusive but couldn't steal Sony's focus from the initial Japanese launch. (So that's what was going on.)

The series of articles reminds us that Microsoft is still the new kid on the console block, but it's fighting to succeed in games. And with the PS3 finally launching, the Sony sleeping giant is waking up, renewing ties with developers.

Read:
Loot: Dispatches From the Console Wars, Part I
Loot: Dispatches From the Console Wars, Part II
Loot: Dispatches From the Console Wars, Part III

JoystiqConsole war: How Sony lost exclusives originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 18 Nov 2006 22:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Assassin's CreedAssassin'sCreedexclusivelaunch06N'Gai CroalN'gaiCroalPS3Xbox-360Sat, 18 Nov 2006 22:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Game industry on console wars: Wii FTW]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/18/game-industry-on-console-wars-wii-ftw/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/18/game-industry-on-console-wars-wii-ftw/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/18/game-industry-on-console-wars-wii-ftw/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Gamasutra's moles are popping out of their holes, reporting on Wii versus PS3 woes. In a series of blurb-sized industry interviews, developers, publishers, reporters, and others state their personal choice between the consoles. While some choose neither -- or the Xbox 360 -- the significant majority are buying Wiis.

We wish more of the quotes were attributed; most name-brand developers didn't want to be on-record dissing one of the systems. (Some statements even complain about company arrogance.) But depending on how much you trust Gamasutra -- we give them the benefit of the doubt -- this may be a fair sampling of the whole industry.

Does industry support for the Wii, or skepticism of the PS3, mean anything? Maybe. As much as anyone, we like the blockbuster games that are expected on the PS3 and Xbox 360. But we balance those with smaller, quirky games; voices in the industry have also been pushing for gameplay and fun over movie-sized budgets and 80-hour weeks.

Sure, the HD consoles have accessible, fun games, especially in the download channels. And the Wii will have epic, AAA titles. But Nintendo is talking big about the Wii being the paramount console for gameplay, and that may speak to the ideals of the industry. If that emphasis speaks to consumers, however, remains to be seen.

JoystiqGame industry on console wars: Wii FTW originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 18 Nov 2006 19:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>console warsConsoleWarsgameplaylaunch06PS3WiiXbox-360Sat, 18 Nov 2006 19:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq Video: Buying Zelda (NES) on the Wii's Virtual Console service]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/18/joystiq-video-buying-zelda-nes-on-the-wiis-virtual-console-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/18/joystiq-video-buying-zelda-nes-on-the-wiis-virtual-console-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/18/joystiq-video-buying-zelda-nes-on-the-wiis-virtual-console-s/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

After finally getting our Wii connected to the internet (after myriad failed attempts), we immediately jumped into the Wii Shop to download one of the thirty or so games promised around launch. First in the virtual shopping cart: The Legend of Zelda. After a brief download (with Mario waiting screen), we fired up our new Zelda channel and played what appeared to be a pixel perfect replica of the 1986 NES classic. Nice touches: hot pluggable GameCube pad support (we popped in a Wavebird and it just worked) and an embedded instruction manual (just hit the Home button).

Available games and prices (remember, 100 Wii points = 100¢ in US currency and ¥100 in Japanese currency, but the conversion isn't so neat for other currencies) :
  • Altered Beast (800 Wii points)
  • Donkey Kong (500 Wii points)
  • F-Zero (800 Wii points)
  • Mario Bros. (500 Wii points)
  • Pinball (500 Wii points)
  • SimCity (800 Wii points)
  • Soccer (500 Wii points)
  • Solomon's Key (500 Wii points)
  • Sonic the Hedgehog (800 Wii points)
  • Super Mario 64 (1000 Wii points)
  • The Legend of Zelda (500 points)
  • Wario's Woods (500 points)
A video of the entire Wii Shop experience is embedded after the break.

Continue reading Joystiq Video: Buying Zelda (NES) on the Wii's Virtual Console service

JoystiqJoystiq Video: Buying Zelda (NES) on the Wii's Virtual Console service originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 18 Nov 2006 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Launch06Legend of ZeldaLegendOfZeldaNESVCVirtual ConsoleVirtualConsoleWiiZeldaSat, 18 Nov 2006 19:25:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 launch: Overheard on Resistance]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/18/ps3-launch-overheard-on-resistance/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/18/ps3-launch-overheard-on-resistance/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/18/ps3-launch-overheard-on-resistance/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Dude #1: We camped for four days. Bought a couple cots and stayed in sportings goods -- 'til they kicked us out. So we got some tents, barbeque grills -- partied outside.
Dude #2: Yeah man, we camped for two days. I love that shit!
Dude #1: Ah, that shit is so cool!

[Resistance: Fall of Man; unranked deathmatch]

JoystiqPS3 launch: Overheard on Resistance originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 18 Nov 2006 16:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActionCampingFPSInsomniaclaunch06OverheardPS3ResistanceResistance-Fall-of-ManSCEShooterSonySat, 18 Nov 2006 16:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Today's hottest game video: homeless people in line [update 1]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/18/todays-hottest-game-video-homless-people-in-line/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/18/todays-hottest-game-video-homless-people-in-line/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/18/todays-hottest-game-video-homless-people-in-line/#commentsFiled under: ,

A North Carolina newscast about smart -- or exploitative -- entrepreneurs drew the most views of YouTube's game videos. These gamer-hustlers drove homeless people to local stores and paid them $100 a day to wait for the PS3.

These console launches bring out the worst in people, but this situation is more ambiguous. Does everybody win, with homeless people being paid and the organizer scoring an eBay-able PS3? Or are there more ethical questions to consider?

Watch the video after the break.

[Update 1: Thanks Kozwiz for the spelling fix.]

Continue reading Today's hottest game video: homeless people in line [update 1]

JoystiqToday's hottest game video: homeless people in line [update 1] originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 18 Nov 2006 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>homelesslaunch06linePS3Sat, 18 Nov 2006 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Violence escalates during PS3 launch [update 9]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/17/violence-escalates-during-ps3-launch/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/17/violence-escalates-during-ps3-launch/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/17/violence-escalates-during-ps3-launch/#commentsFiled under: ,

Yesterday it was BB guns, today a report from a Putnam, Connecticut PS3 line involves real guns. Early this morning, two armed gunmen approached a line of PlayStation 3 hopefuls gathered outside of the Putnam, Conn., Wal-Mart, demanding money from those in line. "One of the patron's resisted. That patron was shot," police Lt. J. Paul Vance told the AP. There has been word of the victim's condition and the hunt for the two gunmen continues.

Elsewhere, in Elk Grove, California, two different gunmen walked into a GameStop yesterday morning and made off with four PS3s. No injuries were reported and the robbers are still at large.

Reports of general chaos and disorder in PS3 lines across the country have been pouring in all day. Engadget has collected links to many of them, and we'll update here with any others as we hear about them.

[Thanks to everyone who sent both these stories in.]

Read - Shot waiting in line
Read - Gunmen Steal PS3s

Continue reading Violence escalates during PS3 launch [update 9]

JoystiqViolence escalates during PS3 launch [update 9] originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 Nov 2006 13:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>launch06PS3robberyWal-MartFri, 17 Nov 2006 13:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Today's hottest game video: Today Show Wii]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/17/todays-hottest-game-video-today-show-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/17/todays-hottest-game-video-today-show-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/17/todays-hottest-game-video-today-show-wii/#commentsFiled under: ,

It seems like all of the PS3 fanboys are busy camping for consoles instead of watching YouTube; today's most-played game video again features the Wii. This clip, at a respectable 55,000 views (down from yesterday's record-breaker), shows Al Roker briefly trying to play Wii Tennis.

In the unflattering -- to Roker and Nintendo -- clip, the newscaster and visiting expert swing wildly, barely able to serve and return one point. Maybe they'll rehearse next time.

See the clip after the break.

Continue reading Today's hottest game video: Today Show Wii

JoystiqToday's hottest game video: Today Show Wii originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 Nov 2006 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Al RokerAlRokerlaunch06Today ShowTodayShowWiiWii SportsWiiSportsFri, 17 Nov 2006 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CNN's Chris Morris: PS3 is not yet worth it]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/16/cnns-chris-morris-ps3-is-not-yet-worth-it/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/16/cnns-chris-morris-ps3-is-not-yet-worth-it/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/16/cnns-chris-morris-ps3-is-not-yet-worth-it/#commentsFiled under: ,

With all the talk of PS3 shortages, it might be refreshing to hear someone say that picking the console up for launch isn't worth it. CNN's resident gamer Chris Morris reviewed the PlayStation 3 and concluded that, while it "has the potential to be all the PS2 was and more," it just isn't worth it yet. Reasons for his decision include a lackluster launch lineup, a steep price (from the perspective of a game machine, not as a Blu-ray player), and its power is not realized without a 1080p-capable TV screen.

In the long term, the PlayStation 3 could succeed in retaining Sony's dominance in the gaming field. But let's play devil's advocate for a minute: beyond bragging rights, how many of you are willing to shell out hundreds of dollars in order to play Resistance and Ridge Racer a few months before everyone else. Have those waiting in line lost that much interest in their current generation consoles?

For those bitter about not getting a PS3 tonight, consider this a mantra you can tell yourself for awhile. Morris suggests waiting until the console receives a $100-$200 price drop and some better games, but a drop that steep probably won't come until there's talk of a PlayStation 4.

See Also:
USA Today suggests waiting on next-gen

JoystiqCNN's Chris Morris: PS3 is not yet worth it originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Nov 2006 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chris morrisChrisMorrisCNNlaunch 06Launch06PS3Thu, 16 Nov 2006 18:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Least credible New York paper picks Wii over PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/16/least-credible-new-york-paper-picks-wii-over-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/16/least-credible-new-york-paper-picks-wii-over-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/16/least-credible-new-york-paper-picks-wii-over-ps3/#commentsFiled under: , ,

the Post picks WiiAmerica's fifth largest newspaper votes Wii. Rupert Murdoch's oft-criticized sensationalist rag, New York Post, has weighed in on this weekend's launch match-up, going with Wii over PlayStation 3: "[Our] testing of both machines found that the Wii was more entertaining -- at less than half the price."

Don't schedule the victory parade just yet, according to a 2004 survey, the Post is considered the least credible major news source in New York. Regardless, with a circulation exceeding 660,000, the endorsement certainly has its benefits.

JoystiqLeast credible New York paper picks Wii over PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Nov 2006 18:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>launch06New York PostNewYorkPostPS3Rupert MurdochRupertMurdochWiiThu, 16 Nov 2006 18:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo sells out of Wii component cables]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/16/nintendo-sells-out-of-wii-component-cables/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/16/nintendo-sells-out-of-wii-component-cables/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/16/nintendo-sells-out-of-wii-component-cables/#commentsFiled under: , ,

It turns out that desire for higher-definition visuals is much higher than Nintendo expected. Those Wii component cables that showed up on Nintendo's official online store have completely sold out. In addition, GameStop's online listing has been pushed back from December 5 to the 15th. If you're impatient, however, you can purportedly still purchase MadCatz's "HD Premium" component cables for $60 as of December 1.

Has Nintendo underestimated the expedience at which consumers have adopted HD (or, at least, ED)? A 480p screen isn't a head-turner, but it certainly beats standard definition. Looks like the House that Mario Built might have to add more detail into the plumber's mustache sooner than they expected.

JoystiqNintendo sells out of Wii component cables originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Nov 2006 17:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>480 p480Pcomponenthd tvHdTvlaunch 06Launch06WiiThu, 16 Nov 2006 17:25:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 campers shot outside Kentucky Best Buy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/16/ps3-campers-shot-outside-kentucky-best-buy/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/16/ps3-campers-shot-outside-kentucky-best-buy/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/16/ps3-campers-shot-outside-kentucky-best-buy/#commentsFiled under: ,

duck bitches!!!Hardcore just got a lot more hardcore. PlayStation 3 devotees camping outside of a Lexington, Kentucky Best Buy were showered with BB-gun pellets last night in an apparent drive-by shooting. The suspect, who is still at-large, even managed to peg a local news reporter interviewing one of the stationed hopefuls. No serious injuries were reported.

As for motive, Engadget opines the shooter was bitter about missing out on a pre-order opportunity. Our guess, an Xbox fanboy soldier giving Sony's fresh recruits a taste of the war to come.

JoystiqPS3 campers shot outside Kentucky Best Buy originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Nov 2006 12:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Best BuyBestBuycampingdrive-bylaunch06PS3Thu, 16 Nov 2006 12:55:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation 3 Network live, Terms of Service loooooong!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/16/playstation-3-network-live-terms-of-service-loooooong/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/16/playstation-3-network-live-terms-of-service-loooooong/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/16/playstation-3-network-live-terms-of-service-loooooong/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Sony activated PlayStation 3's online network in North America this morning (it's been live in Japan since last week), in anticipation of tomorrow's launch. We'll let you know how it fares once we get through these Terms of Service...

[Thanks CheapyD!]

JoystiqPlayStation 3 Network live, Terms of Service loooooong! originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Nov 2006 12:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>launch06PlayStation NetworkPlaystationNetworkPrivacy PolicyPrivacyPolicyPS3Terms of ServiceTermsOfServiceUser AgreementUserAgreementThu, 16 Nov 2006 12:25:00 EST<![CDATA[D.C. club will have 1,000 PS3s for $1,200 each on launch day]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/14/d-c-club-will-have-1-000-ps3s-for-1-200-each-on-launch-day/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/14/d-c-club-will-have-1-000-ps3s-for-1-200-each-on-launch-day/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/14/d-c-club-will-have-1-000-ps3s-for-1-200-each-on-launch-day/#commentsFiled under: , ,

there's a sucker born every minute...
FierceGameBiz reports that used-technology distributor NovaDataCom is hosting a PlayStation 3 release party at Washington, D.C. club Ultra Bar this Thursday night. Beginning at 12:01 am (Friday morning) 1,000 PS3 units will be available for purchase -- for $1,200 apiece!

P.T. Barnum said it best: "There's a [drunken] sucker born every minute..."

JoystiqD.C. club will have 1,000 PS3s for $1,200 each on launch day originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Nov 2006 23:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>launch06NovaDataCompromotionPS3UltraBarTue, 14 Nov 2006 23:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony admits 200 PS2 games not working on PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/14/sony-admits-200-ps2-games-not-working-on-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/14/sony-admits-200-ps2-games-not-working-on-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/14/sony-admits-200-ps2-games-not-working-on-ps3/#commentsFiled under: ,

PS3 workaroundSony has confirmed reports that several -- like 200* -- PlayStation 2 games are not functioning properly on PlayStation 3. The company claims most of the backwards compatibility inconsistencies relate to audio glitches, but admits that some games do not run at all. SCE spokesperson Satoshi Fukuoka said the issues would be fixed through future patches (likely built into firmware upgrades) distributed online.

Microsoft drew a lot of flak when Xbox 360 debuted with a paltry list of compatible Xbox titles (which shrank before it grew), but at least there was an effort to be honest to the consumer. That's not to say Sony was being overtly dishonest by advertising 100% backwards compatibility; if we had to guess, a team wasn't budgeted to test all of PS2's 8,000+ titles. Sure, you could bitch that Sony did a disservice; but let's be real, anyone lucky enough to score a PS3 during launch probably owns PS2 -- problem solved.

*200 titles account for less than 2.5% of the PS2 software catalogue.

See also: A HUGE backwards compatibility checklist for the PS3

[Thanks Marc]

JoystiqSony admits 200 PS2 games not working on PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Nov 2006 12:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backwards compatibilityBackwardsCompatibilitylaunch06PS2PS3Tue, 14 Nov 2006 12:10:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Use the right cables for your TV [update 1]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/14/psa-use-the-right-cables-for-your-tv/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/14/psa-use-the-right-cables-for-your-tv/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/14/psa-use-the-right-cables-for-your-tv/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

As Wired and IGN have discovered, the Wii looks significantly better using component cables with an HDTV versus its bundled composite connection. 480p is a big step up from 480i. Gamers haven't had the same problem with the Xbox 360 or PS3 because it ships with cables that support high-definition signals, but the basic issue is the same.

HDTVs look great with HD sources, but when playing analog signals, they look even worse than the analog TVs they replace. That's one of the dirty secrets of the HD upgrade; 480i games and broadcasts look weak. If gaming on a TV with component inputs, those cables are a must; they even make Xbox, PS2, and GameCube titles clearer. (And for fully HD consoles, cables that carry digital signals -- like HDMI -- are best.)

Wii buyers with 480p-or-better TVs, be sure to budget those cables into your console purchase.

[Update 1: PS3 users with HDTVs, you're going to have the same issue. Somehow we forgot that the component or HDMI cables cost extra. Thanks to all the readers who pointed our the error.]

Read: Hil's Blargh! - Composite Cables - The Wii Killer
Read: Wii Component Cables!

[Via Digg]

JoystiqPSA: Use the right cables for your TV [update 1] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Nov 2006 00:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cablescomponentDVIGameCubeHDMIHDTVlaunch06PS2PS3WiiXboxXbox-360Tue, 14 Nov 2006 00:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Japan: PS3 near sell-out, Ridge Racer, Gundam popular]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/13/japan-ps3-near-sell-out-ridge-racer-gundam-popular/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/13/japan-ps3-near-sell-out-ridge-racer-gundam-popular/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/13/japan-ps3-near-sell-out-ridge-racer-gundam-popular/#commentsFiled under: ,

Reuters documents the Japanese PS3 frenzy, saying that the console sold nearly all of its stock -- 88,400 units -- in its first two days. Just over 60 percent moved were the 60GB version, but we expect gamers were just buying whatever was available.

But what games do the Japanese players want? Mobile Suit Gundam: Target in Sight and Ridge Racer 7 are the hottest titles, selling about 30,000 each. While other launch titles are picking up the slack, it sounds like Japanese gamers are spending most of their money on the console and not on games.

The PS3 already supports video downloads in Japan, so that audience may see it as a rounded entertainment system -- or a Blu-ray player. We're interested in how the number of games sold per-console averages out in different parts of the world.

JoystiqJapan: PS3 near sell-out, Ridge Racer, Gundam popular originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 Nov 2006 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blu-raylaunch06mobile suit gundamMobileSuitGundamPS3ridge racerRidgeRacerMon, 13 Nov 2006 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mercury News: PS3? Wait and see]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/13/mercury-news-ps3-wait-and-see/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/13/mercury-news-ps3-wait-and-see/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/13/mercury-news-ps3-wait-and-see/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Dean Takahashi compares the three-console showdown beginning this week. His overview is mostly recap for us: the Wii is for new -- and unproven -- family gameplay, and the Xbox 360 is for hardcore gamers. The PS3? It's for techies who need the glossiest gadgets.

He doesn't find much reason to pick a PS3 over the 360, other than being the cool kid on your block. But he also mentions that his opinion could be swayed if unique games come out for the new system.

Do killer apps drive console sales? We can't think of a standout that would justify buying the hardware for any of the three consoles -- maybe Gears of War. Maybe that's why we have mixed feelings about the two launches. But we expect next year's game releases to warm us up to the new hardware.

JoystiqMercury News: PS3? Wait and see originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 Nov 2006 21:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Dean TakahashiDeanTakahashikiller appKillerApplaunch06PS3WiiXbox-360Mon, 13 Nov 2006 21:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Console as entertainment hub: This time for sure]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/13/console-as-entertainment-hub-this-time-for-sure/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/13/console-as-entertainment-hub-this-time-for-sure/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/13/console-as-entertainment-hub-this-time-for-sure/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Today's San Jose Mercury News covers the PS3 and Wii launch for a broad audience, including the push to make consoles home entertainment hubs. We've heard the promise before, including Media Center Extender for the original Xbox and the PSX DVR that was supposed to ship worldwide. Even the Pippin and Dreamcast browsed the web, but few seemed to care.

Are these internet and media features finally converging into single devices? The Wii has the fewest media features, but even that console is far ahead of the previous generations. Will general consumers -- or gamers -- care that they can download movies on a console?

JoystiqConsole as entertainment hub: This time for sure originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 Nov 2006 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>entertainment hubEntertainmentHubhomelaunch06Media Center Extendermedia hubMediaCenterExtenderMediaHubPS3PSPWiiXbox-360Mon, 13 Nov 2006 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Japanese PS3 launch: weather report]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/13/the-japanese-ps3-launch-weather-report/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/13/the-japanese-ps3-launch-weather-report/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/13/the-japanese-ps3-launch-weather-report/#commentsFiled under:


Gamers queue with umbrellas erect in Akihabara.

Some important information remains missing from the avalanche of hyperbolic "PS3 LAUNCH CHAOS!" stories which hit the web on Saturday, following the PS3's (inevitable) Day One sell-out: What was the weather like?

Joystiq camped out overnight in Tokyo to get its system, and at dawn all fingers were still present and correct. The frost didn't bite. In fact, at a low of 10 degrees Celsius, Friday night in Tokyo was unseasonably mild. The sun began to colour the sky just past 5.30am on Saturday morning, turning to a pink haze by 6.30am before arriving at a grey cloud conclusion as the first Tokyo game stores opened their doors to all those who wanted a PS3 for breakfast.

Dramatically, as the first customer at Shinjuku's Yodobashi Camera made his way to the register, the heavens opened. And from 7.01am until the evening, there was nothing but drizzle in Tokyo. The perfect day for staying inside with a warm PS3.

JoystiqThe Japanese PS3 launch: weather report originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 Nov 2006 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AkihabaraJapanlaunch06PS3Mon, 13 Nov 2006 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[1UP editors: Wii got punk'd]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/12/1up-editors-wii-got-punkd/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/12/1up-editors-wii-got-punkd/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/12/1up-editors-wii-got-punkd/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Even reputed game journalists are not above gullibility. GameVideos.com Director Mark MacDonald sent us word of a prank he played in the 1UP / EGM offices recently where he used pre-recorded footage of Metroid Prime 2 and Auto Modelista, a "replica Wii joystiq [sic]," and a laptop battery posing as a sensor bar to fool more than a few editors that they had gotten a retail Wii unit in early.

Dan Hsu caught on quickly, after launching into a mini-tirade about unreturned e-mails to Nintendo. A few others, however, were no so lucky, even sitting down to play the games for many minutes before realizing they were mere marionettes in a sick and twisted mind game. All the embarrassment has been caught on tape, uploaded, and embedded below.

Continue reading 1UP editors: Wii got punk'd

Joystiq1UP editors: Wii got punk'd originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 12 Nov 2006 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1updan hsuDanHsuegmjokelaunch 06Launch06prankWiiSun, 12 Nov 2006 18:30:00 EST