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[Game on: NFL likeness lawsuit against EA moving forward]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/31/game-on-nfl-likeness-lawsuit-against-ea-moving-forward/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/31/game-on-nfl-likeness-lawsuit-against-ea-moving-forward/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/31/game-on-nfl-likeness-lawsuit-against-ea-moving-forward/#comments A motion filed by EA to dismiss a class-action lawsuit filed against it by 6,000 retired NFL players has failed, reports Gamasutra. As you'll recall, the players that filed the suit claimed that their likenesses were used in Madden 09 without permission or compensation. While the player's names and numbers were changed, vital and identifiable statistics were left unchanged.

Rather than argue that it in fact didn't replicate real-world players without authorization, EA's motion to dismiss postulated that Madden 09's use of player likenesses was covered by the First Amendment, and therefore did not require consent or compensation. Since this motion was denied, the case will move on to court. Plaintiffs are seeking legal fees, damages and all profits generated through the use of said plaintiffs' likenesses.

JoystiqGame on: NFL likeness lawsuit against EA moving forward originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 31 Mar 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>class-actionClass-actionLawsuitdsEAlawlawsuitlegalMadden-09Madden-NFL-09microsoftnintendoplaystationps3pspsonywiixboxSat, 31 Mar 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Retired NFL players sue EA over likenesses in Madden 09]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/03/retired-nfl-players-sue-ea-over-likenesses-in-madden-09/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/03/retired-nfl-players-sue-ea-over-likenesses-in-madden-09/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/03/retired-nfl-players-sue-ea-over-likenesses-in-madden-09/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The likenesses of the historic teams in Madden 09 were apparently a little too lifelike, as over 6,000 retired NFL players have come together and filed a class-action lawsuit against EA. According to IGN, the lawsuit claims that EA used the stats and positions of past players, but changed their uniform numbers and removed their names in order to get around having to pay licensing fees.

The lawsuit also takes aim at the customization options available, which let players freely edit in the real names and uniform numbers of these classic athletes. "The only significant detail that EA changes from the real-life retired NFL players is their jersey number," the suit claims. "Despite EA's 'scrambling' of the retired NFL players' numbers, the games are designed so that consumers of the Madden NFL video game franchise will have no difficulty identifying who the 'historic' players are."

The lawsuit seeks damages associated with the "deprivation and violation of publicity rights."

JoystiqRetired NFL players sue EA over likenesses in Madden 09 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Aug 2010 11:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dseaea-sportsmaddenMadden-09Madden-NFL-09microsoftnintendoplaystationps3pspsonywiixboxTue, 03 Aug 2010 11:40:00 EST<![CDATA[NFL Hall of Famer Jim Brown appeals dismissed lawsuit against EA]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/07/nfl-hall-of-famer-jim-brown-appeals-dismissed-lawsuit-against-ea/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/07/nfl-hall-of-famer-jim-brown-appeals-dismissed-lawsuit-against-ea/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/07/nfl-hall-of-famer-jim-brown-appeals-dismissed-lawsuit-against-ea/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Jim Brown, nine-season running back for the Cleveland Browns and NFL Hall of Fame inductee, filed a lawsuit against Electronic Arts in 2008 for using his likeness in Madden '09 without first obtaining his permission. Last September, U.S. District Judge Florence-Marie Cooper (who passed away in January from lymphoma) ruled that EA was protected by First Amendment rights -- a decision which Brown is now attempting to overturn in a San Francisco appellate court.

Brown requested the review earlier this week at the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. According to the Associated Press, EA representative Jeff Brown emailed the New York Times, saying the industry juggernaut is "confident" the ruling won't change. So, for those of you keeping score: EA's Jeff Brown says Jim Brown from the Browns won't win.

JoystiqNFL Hall of Famer Jim Brown appeals dismissed lawsuit against EA originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Jul 2010 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-sportsjim-brownlawsuitlegalMadden-09Madden-NFL-09microsoftnflnintendoplaystationps3wiixboxWed, 07 Jul 2010 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA['Big Dawg' vs. Madden lawsuit dismissed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/16/big-dawg-vs-madden-lawsuit-dismissed/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/16/big-dawg-vs-madden-lawsuit-dismissed/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/16/big-dawg-vs-madden-lawsuit-dismissed/#commentsAccording to a report on Cleveland.com, the lawsuit filed against Electronic Arts by Cleveland Browns fan John "Big Dawg" Thompson has been dismissed. The suit had been filed on the grounds that EA featured Thompson's likeness in Madden NFL 09 without his permission. More specifically, the game featured the likeness of Thompson wearing a dog mask and orange hat, a costume he's worn to Cleveland Browns home games for years.

Thompson's lawyer, Alan Parker, noted that his client was happy the matter was closed, but noted that details of the dismissal are confidential. Thompson had been seeking damages "in excess of $25,000," so that's one thing he might be happy about. If his Big Dawg mask is sporting some gold teeth and a diamond encrusted hat during the next Browns home game, we'll know for sure.

Joystiq'Big Dawg' vs. Madden lawsuit dismissed originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Oct 2009 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic-artslawsuitmaddenmadden-09madden-nfl-09Fri, 16 Oct 2009 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mask-wearing fan suing EA over likeness in Madden 09]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/04/mask-wearing-fan-suing-ea-over-likeness-in-madden-09/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/04/mask-wearing-fan-suing-ea-over-likeness-in-madden-09/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/04/mask-wearing-fan-suing-ea-over-likeness-in-madden-09/#commentsHe might be known for wearing a bug-eyed dog mask and representing the most hardcore of Cleveland Browns fans, but John "Big Dawg" Thompson isn't down with his likeness being used in EA Sports' Madden NFL 09. No, not just because it misrepresents his jersey's number (98 in real life, 92 in the game) -- it's because EA Sports is using his likeness without ever having actually asked permission.

So John Thompson (not to be confused with that other Thompson) has filed a complaint at the Cuyahoga County Court of Common Pleas seeking restitution "in excess of $25,000." He's also looking to block EA's ability to sell the game or use "the Big Dawg character" without his expressed permission in the future. We hate to tell you, John, but that game kinda came out last year.

JoystiqMask-wearing fan suing EA over likeness in Madden 09 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 04 Oct 2009 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cleveland-brownseaea-sportsElectronic-Artsfootballgamespotjohn-big-dawg-thompsonjohn-thompsonlawsuitmadden-09madden-nfl-09Sun, 04 Oct 2009 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Walmart sells boy 'redneck' version of Madden 09]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/26/walmart-sells-boy-redneck-version-of-madden-09/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/26/walmart-sells-boy-redneck-version-of-madden-09/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/26/walmart-sells-boy-redneck-version-of-madden-09/#commentsFiled under:


Put yourself in this position. Imagine you're a young boy (somewhere around, say, 13 years old) and have saved up all your Christmas money to purchase a shiny new Xbox 360. You're now overjoyed to hear that your dad has finally got around to taking you to the local Walmart to make your Xbox purchase.

After deciding on a console, you pick out Madden 09 as your first Xbox 360 game purchase. Now, still imagining you're this boy, you and your pa make your way back home where you setup your newly purchased Xbox. Caught up in the excitement, you rip open the (scotch tape sealed) Madden 09 packaging and are taken back because Madden 09 doesn't quite look like Madden 09. It looks something like the "redneck sh*t" you see above. Tears run down your cheek as you realize Walmart has failed you. Somehow, you purchased what you thought was a new copy of Madden, but was a returned and previously used copy with the disc swapped out. Oh the horror!

Scariest part, this is a true story.

JoystiqWalmart sells boy 'redneck' version of Madden 09 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Jan 2009 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eamadden-09madden-nfl-09walmartx3f-twitterMon, 26 Jan 2009 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Madden tramples Wii Fit in Q3 global sales]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/10/madden-tramples-wii-fit-in-q3-global-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/10/madden-tramples-wii-fit-in-q3-global-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/10/madden-tramples-wii-fit-in-q3-global-sales/#commentsFiled under: , ,


The Top Global Markets sales data from NPD, Chart-Track and Enterbrain (via GameDaily) reveals that Madden NFL 09 blitzed the global charts to become the best selling game in the third quarter of '08 (that's July to September). Trailing Madden were Wii Fit and Star Wars: The Force Unleashed. Also, showing that the franchise still has some Pikachu-charged power behind it, Pokémon Platinum battled in fourth place with 1.4 million units sold, despite being only available in Japan. Mario Kart Wii rounded out the top five.

Certainly the most interesting question about the sales figures is: Where would Wii Fit be if it was actually meeting demand? Madden's sales were (obviously) US heavy, while Wii Fit had a regional sales spread based on Wii's install base. Find the full sales figures after the break.

Continue reading Madden tramples Wii Fit in Q3 global sales

JoystiqMadden tramples Wii Fit in Q3 global sales originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Nov 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>force-unleashedglobal-salesmadden-09madden-nfl-09salesstar-wars-the-force-unleashedthe-force-unleashedwii-fitMon, 10 Nov 2008 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Madden NFL 09 Pink to support breast cancer foundation]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/03/madden-nfl-09-pink-to-support-breast-cancer-foundation/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/03/madden-nfl-09-pink-to-support-breast-cancer-foundation/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/03/madden-nfl-09-pink-to-support-breast-cancer-foundation/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



EA Sports announced today that Madden NFL 09 Pink will be sold at Target, with a portion of the proceeds from the sale going to the Deanna Favre HOPE Foundation. The box will be available during the month of October (National Breast Cancer Awareness Month) and can also be purchased at Target.com and NFLShop.com.

We called EA Sports to find out how this "new" art still has Favre in his Packers uniform. Turns out the pink ribbon design is actually part of a clear overlay inside the cover. Meaning, consumers can completely remove it if they want, or place the Favre Jets cover in behind it. Behold, the freedom of choice.

JoystiqMadden NFL 09 Pink to support breast cancer foundation originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Oct 2008 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-sportsElectronic-Artsmaddenmadden-09madden-nfl-09PS3targetWiiXbox-360Fri, 03 Oct 2008 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[No curse, but Madden 09 has bugs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/05/no-curse-but-madden-09-has-bugs/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/05/no-curse-but-madden-09-has-bugs/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/05/no-curse-but-madden-09-has-bugs/#commentsFiled under: , ,

madden 09
With the NFL regular season just barely underway, there's plenty of time for the Madden Curse to sink its hooks into Mr. Favre's vulnerable ankle, but for now, EA is busy squashing a host of bugs that have crawled out of the bowels of latest edition of Madden. The major pest is a freezing issue that can crop up during play calling and highlight screens, reports IGN. Senior designer Ian Cummings has documented most, if not all known bugs on the game's Producer Blog, recommending various workarounds while the team puts together a patch. EA is targeting "less than a 3 week turnaround" from last Tuesday for the update to be released. So put a big checkmark next to the 16th and cross your fingers.

JoystiqNo curse, but Madden 09 has bugs originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 05 Sep 2008 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bugseaea-sportsElectronic-Artsmaddenmadden-09madden-nfl-09PS3Xbox-360Fri, 05 Sep 2008 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Download this Favre-Jets cover for Madden 09]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/13/download-this-favre-jets-cover-for-madden-09/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/13/download-this-favre-jets-cover-for-madden-09/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/13/download-this-favre-jets-cover-for-madden-09/#commentsFiled under:

Yeah, we all know the story -- Brett Favre pulling a fast one out of retirement and signing up with the Jets. While football fans may have been ecstatic over the news, it was a move that left Maddenites with an outdated cover for Madden NFL 09. However, not wanting fans to remain disappointed, EA has a backup play to counter Favre's surprise blitz.

If you head on over to EA's website, you can download a free, brand new cover for Madden 09 which features Favre sporting a Jets uniform. The covers are high quality PDFs, so you just have to make sure you have a good printer and some glossy paper to make the cover look legit. Might want to stop by Kinkos for that. Download the cover and replace it with the old one if you so desire.

[Thanks WhiteSpy!]

JoystiqDownload this Favre-Jets cover for Madden 09 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 Aug 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brett-favreeafavremaddenmadden-09madden-nfl-09Wed, 13 Aug 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Download this Favre-Jets cover for Madden 09]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/13/download-this-favre-jets-cover-for-madden-09/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/13/download-this-favre-jets-cover-for-madden-09/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/13/download-this-favre-jets-cover-for-madden-09/#commentsFiled under: ,


Yeah, we all know the story -- Brett Favre pulling a fast one out of retirement and signing up with the Jets. While football fans may have been ecstatic over the news, it was a move that left Maddenites with an outdated cover for Madden NFL 09. However, not wanting fans to remain disappointed, EA has a backup play to counter Favre's surprise blitz.

If you head on over to EA's website, you can download a free, brand new cover for Madden 09 which features Favre sporting a Jets uniform. The covers are high quality PDFs, so you just have to make sure you have a good printer and some glossy paper to make the cover look legit. Might want to stop by Kinkos for that. Download the cover and replace it with the old one if you so desire.

[Thanks WhiteSpy!]

JoystiqDownload this Favre-Jets cover for Madden 09 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 Aug 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brett-favreeafavremaddenmadden-09madden-nfl-09Wed, 13 Aug 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Make Favre a Jet with a new Madden 09 cover]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/12/make-favre-a-jet-with-a-new-madden-09-cover/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/12/make-favre-a-jet-with-a-new-madden-09-cover/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/12/make-favre-a-jet-with-a-new-madden-09-cover/#commentsFiled under:


Football fans may have noticed that Brett Favre is still wearing his Packers uniform on the cover of Madden 09 rather than his swanky new Jets uniform. If you just can't stand to see Favre in the wrong uniform (or you're just obsessive compulsive), you can now download a new cover directly from EA. The only question now is what do you do with the old cover? We suppose it might work for papercraft. Failing that, it could make a decent rain hat in a pinch. Just use your imagination kids!

What's new in Madden this year? What's different? Find out what's good (and what's not so good) in our Madden 09 Season Update.

JoystiqMake Favre a Jet with a new Madden 09 cover originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Aug 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic-artsmaddenmadden-09madden-nfl-09Tue, 12 Aug 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[X3F Presents... Season Update: Madden NFL 09]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/12/x3f-season-update-madden-nfl-09/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/12/x3f-season-update-madden-nfl-09/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/12/x3f-season-update-madden-nfl-09/#commentsFiled under:


Welcome to X3F Season Update where we outline the additions and changes to major sports franchises. Looking to nab Madden NFL 09? This handy guide will walk you through some of the updates to the franchise and pinpoint issues we've heard from around the web. In this feature we tackle everything from the new Madden IQ feature to the utter failure that is the online leagues in the game. Jump in sports fans and find out everything you need to know about Madden NFL 2009.

Continue to X3F Season Update: Madden NFL 09

JoystiqX3F Presents... Season Update: Madden NFL 09 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Aug 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ea-sportsfeaturedfeaturesjoystiqfeaturesmadden-09madden-nfl-09Tue, 12 Aug 2008 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview - Madden NFL 09 (Xbox 360, PS3)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/12/metareview-madden-09-360-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/12/metareview-madden-09-360-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/12/metareview-madden-09-360-ps3/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


It's times like this we're happy there's a Metareview. Because, honestly, if we had to say something intelligent and clever about football, it's probably going to be related to The Waterboy or Superpro. We're sports dumb, to put it more directly. Luckily, the internet is here to put the new Madden through its paces.
  • 1UP (A): "Madden's the sports-gaming superpower, though, so it's hard not to nitpick some of this stuff. But even with the listed complaints, this is a football game that one-ups the stakes between the sidelines, and it's so visually impressive that it's likely to stick in your system all season long -- even on Saturdays."
  • GameDaily (80/100): "Despite all the this cool stuff, Madden commits some penalties. The game supposedly has more dynamic camera angles, but you'll often see the same one repeat up to ten times per game. As for the computer, it often makes strange decisions, such as running out the clock when it needs a score or wandering out of bounds for no reason."
  • IGN (88/100): "It may not look all that different to the casual observer, but football aficionados and Madden veterans alike will be able to appreciate the small enhancements."

JoystiqMetareview - Madden NFL 09 (Xbox 360, PS3) originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Aug 2008 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-sportsElectronic-Artsmaddenmadden-09Madden-NFL-09metareviewPS3Xbox-360Tue, 12 Aug 2008 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Print me: New Madden NFL 09 cover (except Xbox, Wii, and DS ...)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/12/print-me-new-madden-nfl-09-cover-except-xbox-wii-and-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/12/print-me-new-madden-nfl-09-cover-except-xbox-wii-and-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/12/print-me-new-madden-nfl-09-cover-except-xbox-wii-and-ds/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


click to enlarge

Huh, looks like EA doesn't have everyone ... covered. Less than a week after Madden 09's cover athlete Brett Favre jumped ship for the Jets (single-handedly thrashing millions in Madden marketing materials) EA has come through with its "plan": you can now download a replacement cover (in handy PDF format) for your copy of Madden NFL 09 featuring Favre donning his new team's colors ...

... that is, if you happened to purchase either the Xbox 360, PS3, PSP, or PS2 release. Those of you that bought the Wii or DS versions, sorry. And for the four of you that bought the Xbox version ... you should know better.

Also released today: a "new online roster download" for Xbox 360, Xbox, PS3, PS2 and Wii which "features Favre as the starting quarterback on the New York Jets." Rocking something a little more portable, are we? EA advises you hit up Franchise Mode, transfer "NFL Great" Favre to the free agent roster pool, and then scoop him up "on any of the 32 NFL teams for the 2008 season."

[Update: If you don't want to blow all of your green ink printing out the new cover, stop by either Sam's Club or Wal-Mart to pick one up in-store. It's unclear if you'll need to purchase the game there as well but our money's on "probably."]

Gallery: Madden NFL 09 (replacement covers)

JoystiqPrint me: New Madden NFL 09 cover (except Xbox, Wii, and DS ...) originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Aug 2008 11:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BreakingNewsBrett-FavreDSEAEA-SportsElectronic-ArtsMadden-09Madden-NFL-09PS2PS3PSPWiiXboxXbox-360Tue, 12 Aug 2008 11:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq goes to Maddenpalooza]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/12/joystiq-goes-to-maddenpalooza/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/12/joystiq-goes-to-maddenpalooza/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/12/joystiq-goes-to-maddenpalooza/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


The Rose Bowl was Madden-ified yesterday to make way for the 20th anniversary of Madden games, as well as the new Madden NFL 09 game that went on sale at midnight last night... or 9 PM Pacific if you were lucky enough to be in the stadium in Pasadena. The upper deck was wrapped in gigantic Madden sail cloths promoting the game and featuring poster boy Brett Favre in his Packers gear. The playing turf featured autograph sessions with NFL legends, skill games, free Pepsi schwag (which we forgot to photograph, whoops), a Slurpee booth complete with Hooters-esque booth babes, a mini Wal-Mart store, and a giant gaming tent full of tons of Xbox 360s, and a scant few Wiis, PS3s, and PSPs.

Read on, dear gamer, to discover the rest, including a confab between rapper Busta Rhymes and EA's Peter Moore. Plus you can click on the gallery below for loads of photos.

Gallery: Maddenpalooza

Continue reading Joystiq goes to Maddenpalooza

JoystiqJoystiq goes to Maddenpalooza originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Aug 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Busta-RhymesEAEA-SportsElectronic-ArtsFootballMaddenMadden-09Madden-NFL-09MaddenpaloozaNFLPeter-MoorePS3PSPWiiXbox-360Tue, 12 Aug 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[360 Deals: 1600 MS points for $15 and more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/10/360-deals-1600-ms-points-for-15-and-more/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/10/360-deals-1600-ms-points-for-15-and-more/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/10/360-deals-1600-ms-points-for-15-and-more/#commentsFiled under:

It's the week Xbox Live Arcade purchasers have been looking forward to, because Target stores are selling 1600 Microsoft points cards for the oh so nice price of $15. But that's not all, they also have CoD4, Battlefield: Bad Company or Army of Two for $50 and are also giving away $40 gift cards with the purchase of any Xbox 360 console and Madden 09. Best Buy has a similar deal, where if you buy an Xbox 360 console and Madden 09 they'll throw in a free wireless controller. Other than that and Turok for $30, Best Buy's 360 deals are kind of lacking this week. Over at Circuit City, they're selling CoD4 for $40, Gears of War for $30, Juiced for $15, and giving away a free mini football with Madden 09 or a free $5 gift card if you purchase Madden 09 online. Finally, Circuit City is handing out free $30 gift card with the purchase of any Xbox 360 console.

Happy shopping and be sure to stock up on those cheap Microsoft points, because as you're well aware, Castle Crashers is releasing soon!

Joystiq360 Deals: 1600 MS points for $15 and more originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 10 Aug 2008 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>army-of-twobest-buycircuit-citycod4dealsdiscountsmadden-09madden-nfl-09microsoft-pointstargetSun, 10 Aug 2008 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo Channel video updates take a look at Madden NFL 09]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/04/nintendo-channel-video-updates-take-a-look-at-madden-nfl-09/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/04/nintendo-channel-video-updates-take-a-look-at-madden-nfl-09/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/04/nintendo-channel-video-updates-take-a-look-at-madden-nfl-09/#commentsFiled under: , ,


We're excited about Madden NFL 09. Oh no, sports on a game blog, run! But, in all seriousness, this year's Madden NFL 09 looks like it's going to be a solid title and unique from the other versions available. Plus, the All-Play stuff looks fun. If the video up top tickles your fancy, then the one past the break is going to blow you away.

Also, check out the latest video updates to the Nintendo Channel tucked away back there as well.

Continue reading Nintendo Channel video updates take a look at Madden NFL 09

JoystiqNintendo Channel video updates take a look at Madden NFL 09 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Aug 2008 19:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>footballmaddenmadden-09madden-nfl-09mario-kart-wiinflnfl-footballnintendo-channelstrong-badupdatevideowild-west-gunsMon, 04 Aug 2008 19:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Get the 'free' Madden Xbox 360 demo for only $5.97]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/01/get-the-free-madden-xbox-360-demo-for-only-5-97/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/01/get-the-free-madden-xbox-360-demo-for-only-5-97/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/01/get-the-free-madden-xbox-360-demo-for-only-5-97/#commentsFiled under: , ,


We walked into 7-11 today while representatives were setting up the massive marketing onslaught of Madden NFL 09, and it's a full blitz. There are standees, posters, chip racks, Big Gulp plastic collectible cups, and even Madden sandwiches. That's right, Madden sandwiches. Boom. We feel as confused as the digital Terrell Owens in that photo.

As a "special deal" they're offering a FREE Xbox 360 Madden NFL 09 demo... if you purchase a "Madden Sub" ($3.59 for a turkey and cheddar sub, with maybe half a leaflet of lettuce on it), a .99 bag of Doritos (your choice of scent/flavor!) and any "Gulp" or larger drink. We didn't even know there were just plain old "Gulps."

Find out what kind of idiot buys something you can get online at home free, after the break.

Continue reading Get the 'free' Madden Xbox 360 demo for only $5.97

JoystiqGet the 'free' Madden Xbox 360 demo for only $5.97 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Aug 2008 22:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>09DemoElectronic-ArtsFootballMaddenMadden-NFL-09NFLSportsXbox-360Fri, 01 Aug 2008 22:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Madden 09 soundtrack headed to Rock Band]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/13/madden-09-soundtrack-headed-to-rock-band/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/13/madden-09-soundtrack-headed-to-rock-band/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/13/madden-09-soundtrack-headed-to-rock-band/#commentsFiled under: ,

Looking to expand their already rich library, EA just announced some new Rock Band downloadable content that's headed our way as part of a partnership between them and Madden NFL 09. According to the press release, "'Rock Band' will feature music from the 'Madden 09' soundtrack in its weekly downloadable songs update, a handful at a time, over several weeks, with each song carrying the 'Madden' brand." Though, at what price, which tracks from the album and when they'll release are all question marks right now. That said, we do know every track that is on the soundtrack (conveniently listed after the break) and it's also interesting to note that some of the Madden 09 soundtrack songs are already available as Rock Band DLC including The Offspring's "Hammerhead" and Disturbed's "Inside the Fire". Whatever happens, we say keep the DLC coming.

Continue reading Madden 09 soundtrack headed to Rock Band

JoystiqMadden 09 soundtrack headed to Rock Band originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 13 Jul 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-sportsharmonixmadden-09madden-nfl-09mtv-gamesrock-bandrock-band-2Sun, 13 Jul 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Are you ready for some Madden 09 achievements?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/30/are-you-ready-for-some-madden-09-achievements/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/30/are-you-ready-for-some-madden-09-achievements/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/30/are-you-ready-for-some-madden-09-achievements/#commentsFiled under:

Our buddies over at 360Sync have already gotten into their Fall football mindset, exclusively releasing a list of Madden NFL 09's achievements. The complete list can be viewed after the jump, but we came across a few achievement highlights including the "Steal Their Thunder" achievement for stealing your opponent's celebration (nice use of T.O.'s mug) and "Midway Monster" where you have to create a legendary player from the past. We're also mildly offended by the "Slam Dunk All-Star" where it awards 30 Gamerscore to those who "dunk the ball over the goalpost (or at least attempt to) after a touchdown." Attempt? Psht, when we go for the goalpost dunk we don't attempt, we execute with flair.

JoystiqAre you ready for some Madden 09 achievements? originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 Jun 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementseaea-sportsmadden-09madden-nfl-09Mon, 30 Jun 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Madden NFL 09 sticking the boot in with new trailers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/madden-nfl-09-sticking-the-boot-in-with-new-trailers/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/madden-nfl-09-sticking-the-boot-in-with-new-trailers/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/madden-nfl-09-sticking-the-boot-in-with-new-trailers/#commentsFiled under: ,


Are all football players blockheads? That's what EA might be trying to say with those giant bobblehead players in the above trailer for Madden NFL 09. Here's an idea -- grab a copy of the game and head down to the local arena. Find a group of guys and taunt them with your nerdish ways, saying EA are right to parody player intelligence and the meaning of life is 42. It's a foolproof plan.

If you're an NFL fan or not, Madden has been an acclaimed addition to the Wii library in the past and this year's entry looks to be no different. The bobblehead players are taken from the arcade-style 5-on-5 mode, but simulation fans can still duke it out with the traditional, realistic style. Head past the break for another, correctly-proportioned video of a full stadium experience.

Continue reading Madden NFL 09 sticking the boot in with new trailers

JoystiqMadden NFL 09 sticking the boot in with new trailers originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Jun 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>american-footballeaelectronic-artsgridironmaddenmadden-nfl-09nflsimulationsportsTue, 24 Jun 2008 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Import fantasy football teams into Madden 09]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/17/import-fantasy-football-teams-into-madden-09/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/17/import-fantasy-football-teams-into-madden-09/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/17/import-fantasy-football-teams-into-madden-09/#commentsFiled under:

Continuing the Madden fantasy football tradition, EA Sports recently announced that fantasy.easports.com will again be fully functioning this year, with new website enhancements, a Live Draft Tracker, a new Live Score Tracker and added Xbox 360 functionality where you'll be able to import your fantasy sports team into Madden NFL 09. Details are light, but EA promises that you'll be able to take your fantasy team into any of Madden 09's gametypes including online versus, play now and franchise modes. Quite nifty. So, we have to ask, are you getting more impressed with this year's Madden offerings?

[Via IGN]

JoystiqImport fantasy football teams into Madden 09 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Jun 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-sportsmadden-09madden-nfl-09Tue, 17 Jun 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Madden 08 versus Madden 09 visuals]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/23/video-madden-08-versus-madden-09-visuals/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/23/video-madden-08-versus-madden-09-visuals/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/23/video-madden-08-versus-madden-09-visuals/#commentsFiled under: ,


On a mission to prove that Madden NFL 09 is a ginormous step forward in the Madden franchise, EA released a new visual comparison video that pits the graphics of Madden 08 versus Madden 09. And, as you can see above, Madden 09 does actually look better, especially when it comes to weather effects and lighting. The bigger, more pressing question is whether or not we should praise EA for adding such improvements that are normally commonplace among game sequels. It's a step in the right direction, but we have a feeling Madden fans are demanding a lot more.

JoystiqVideo: Madden 08 versus Madden 09 visuals originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 May 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-sportsmadden-08madden-09madden-nfl-09Fri, 23 May 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony announces Madden NFL 09 PSP bundle]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/21/sony-announces-madden-nfl-09-psp-bundle/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/21/sony-announces-madden-nfl-09-psp-bundle/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/21/sony-announces-madden-nfl-09-psp-bundle/#comments
Let's say for the sake of argument that you are a fan of American football, and in this purely hypothetical scenario you also like to get your gaming fix while on the go. If this is the case then Sony's latest PSP bundle is likely right up your alley, grouping together the portable version of EA's upcoming Madden NFL 09 with a North American-exclusive "metallic blue" PSP.

Shipping August 12 with an asking price of $199.99, the bundle will also pack in a documentary on UMD titled NFL: In Just One Play alongside a 1GB Memory Stick PRO Duo. In addition, the so-called Madden NFL 09 PSP Entertainment Pack will include a PSN voucher to download SCEE's London Studio's Beats rhythm game, an odd bedfellow for the latest sports offering, though we suppose after players tire of going long and letting virtual pigskins slip through their fingers they'll appreciate having something else to fall back on.

JoystiqSony announces Madden NFL 09 PSP bundle originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 May 2008 09:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking-newsbreakingnewsmaddenmadden-nfl-09pspWed, 21 May 2008 09:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Fix your mistake, rewind added to Madden 09]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/19/fix-your-mistake-rewind-added-to-madden-09/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/19/fix-your-mistake-rewind-added-to-madden-09/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/19/fix-your-mistake-rewind-added-to-madden-09/#commentsFiled under:

Being added to Madden NFL 09's ever growing list of new additions comes the announcement of an "interesting" feature which is being called "EA Sports Rewind". How it's explained, this new feature will allow players to go back in time, take a down back and re-do what just occurred if one wasn't happy with the previous outcome. In it's simplest form, it's a do-over. The rewind ability can also be used defensively against your opponent, thus negating any progress or scoring they did the play before. Also, just in case you were wondering, before the game starts players will be able to specify the number of rewinds each team gets per game.

It's an interesting feature add, but we can't help but wonder how much it'll actually be used between multiplayer foes or how annoying it'll end up being.

JoystiqFix your mistake, rewind added to Madden 09 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 May 2008 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-sportsmadden-09madden-nfl-09Mon, 19 May 2008 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Man tackle with Madden NFL 09]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/video-man-tackle-with-madden-nfl-09/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/video-man-tackle-with-madden-nfl-09/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/video-man-tackle-with-madden-nfl-09/#commentsFiled under: ,


Put down Viva Pinata (game save first) and your too pink controller, because it's time to man up with some football roughness. EA just released a new Madden NFL 09 "Tackle Animations Trailer" that showcases this year's new tackling engine and a bunch of ... well, tackles. The game's tackling animations aren't bad at all and are some of the best Madden tackling animations to date. But we think the problem lies in with the fact that they are animations. Where's the oh so enjoyable ragdoll physics? Give us Euphoria-style goodness in Madden and we may actually support this new fangled "football" thing.

JoystiqVideo: Man tackle with Madden NFL 09 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 May 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-sportsmadden-09madden-nfl-09Thu, 15 May 2008 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Madden 09 adds ability to return missed field goals]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/05/madden-09-adds-ability-to-return-missed-field-goals/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/05/madden-09-adds-ability-to-return-missed-field-goals/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/05/madden-09-adds-ability-to-return-missed-field-goals/#commentsFiled under:

It's Gamestop's Madden Monday and that means we get treated to yet another interesting Madden NFL 09 feature reveal, and this week we learn about the ability to return missed field goals. This feature should be pretty self-explanatory, when a field goal is attempted and missed, your opponent can return it for a possible score. Group breaking feature add, no? In all honestly though, the ability to return missed field goals is a no-brainer and should've been in Madden ever since Hester was first conceived. Returnable missed field goals, user-controlled celebrations and a heaping helping of Favre ... Madden 09 is going to be a-maz-ing!

JoystiqMadden 09 adds ability to return missed field goals originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 May 2008 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-sportsmaddenmadden-09madden-nfl-09Mon, 05 May 2008 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Madden NFL 09 to add 'Real Football Intelligence', online leagues, holodeck]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/26/madden-nfl-09-to-add-real-football-intelligence-online-league/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/26/madden-nfl-09-to-add-real-football-intelligence-online-league/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/26/madden-nfl-09-to-add-real-football-intelligence-online-league/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Happy NFL Draft weekend, everyone! With one day of exciting athlete trafficking under our belts, we thought it would be appropriate to point out a recent GameTap interview with Madden NFL 09 designer Phil Frazier, which reveals a number of features in the next installment of the never-ending, pigskin-chuckin' franchise. With buzzwords like "Favre", "player weapons" and "holographic training center", could this be the year where we find our way back into EA Sports' monopolized fold?

Some of the features highlighted include the Real Football Intelligence system, which tracks your skill as a player and provides helpful (and aggravating, we imagine) feedback, the induction of Tom Hammond and Cris Collinsworth as the new play-by-play and color commentators, and online, 32-man leagues (complete with trading, drafting, and flexible scheduling). We can only hope they'll include even more lunatic outbursts from the series ham-hearted, titular announcer.

JoystiqMadden NFL 09 to add 'Real Football Intelligence', online leagues, holodeck originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 26 Apr 2008 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>draftDSfavrefootballgametapjohnmaddenleaguemaddenmadden-NFL-09madden09maddennfl09PS2PS3PSPWiiXbox-360Sat, 26 Apr 2008 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EA lets you be a Head Coach without Madden]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/23/ea-lets-you-be-a-head-couch-without-madden/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/23/ea-lets-you-be-a-head-couch-without-madden/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/23/ea-lets-you-be-a-head-couch-without-madden/#commentsFiled under:

Previously, it was announced that the Madden NFL 09 Collector's Edition would, among other goodies, exclusively include NFL Head Coach 09 as part of the bundle. And even though that hasn't changed, EA has changed their minds on how to approach Head Coach 09, now deciding to release it as a stand alone game as well. According to EA, "after listening to fans and the Madden NFL community" they decided to make Head Coach 09 its own retail game which is now set to release on September 2nd for $49.99. We never knew Head Coach fans were so passionate about seeing Tony Dungy on his own retail box.

[Via Game Stooge]

JoystiqEA lets you be a Head Coach without Madden originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Apr 2008 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-sportshead-coachhead-coach-09maddenmadden-nflmadden-nfl-09nfl-head-coach-09Wed, 23 Apr 2008 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Vote for your favorite Madden NFL cover athlete]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/22/vote-for-your-favorite-madden-nfl-cover-athlete/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/22/vote-for-your-favorite-madden-nfl-cover-athlete/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/22/vote-for-your-favorite-madden-nfl-cover-athlete/#commentsFiled under:

On April 25th the Madden curse will claim another victim when EA announces the football star who'll grace Madden NFL 09's cover. And to prepare for the glorious announcement, Xbox.com is hosting a semi-scientific poll asking Madden fans which year had the best Madden cover athlete. You can check out all the athletes (and John Madden too) after the jump, gawk at the Madden cover victims, select a favorite, then jump over to the forums to vote. Currently, Mr. Madden himself is leading the pack, but Ray Lewis (and his legally questionable past) is a very close second. Heck, while we're at it, tell us who you think deserves should be subjected to the 2009 Madden curse. We're up for seeing Vick a second time around. He deserves the curse times two.

JoystiqVote for your favorite Madden NFL cover athlete originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 Apr 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-sportsmaddenmadden-09madden-nfl-09Tue, 22 Apr 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[User-Controlled Celebrations debut in Madden 09]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/14/user-controlled-celebrations-debut-in-madden-09/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/14/user-controlled-celebrations-debut-in-madden-09/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/14/user-controlled-celebrations-debut-in-madden-09/#commentsFiled under:

GameStop's gaming blog (since when did they get into the blogging circuit?) is starting up a new weekly feature called Madden Monday where, every Monday, they plan on exclusively revealing a new Madden NFL 09 feature. And to kick-off (ha!) the fun, they just revealed Madden 09's new User-Controlled Celebrations. The UC Celebrations feature allows players the chance to semi-control their player's TD celebrations with the press of a button. Each player, stadium and Hot Spot location in the end-zone will have its own celebration. You'll even be able to steal the other team's patented moves. It's an interesting non-gameplay Madden feature addition that just may just be this year's BIG Madden formula change. Though, we hope it isn't.

[Via NeoGAF]

JoystiqUser-Controlled Celebrations debut in Madden 09 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Apr 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-sportsmaddenmadden-09madden-nfl-09Mon, 14 Apr 2008 14:30:00 EST