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[iPad/Android-based games mag PXL looking for assistance on Kickstarter]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/06/ipad-android-based-games-mag-pxl-looking-for-assistance-on-kicks/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/06/ipad-android-based-games-mag-pxl-looking-for-assistance-on-kicks/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/06/ipad-android-based-games-mag-pxl-looking-for-assistance-on-kicks/#comments PXL is a proposal for a new game magazine on Android tablets and iPad, combining elements of traditional magazines and websites in a neat way.

Each issue of the upcoming magazine will have a news section that updates weekly, and reviews that magically arrive on the day of release, so that issue always has the latest news (stretching the definition of an "issue"). PXL founder and former Joystiq editor Randy Nelson has assembled "a crack team of gamers who've written for PSM, Nintendo Power, Next Generation, Official Xbox Magazine, PlayStation: The Official Magazine, Joystiq, and more" to write for the magazine.

The team plans to release the first issue in February, for $.99. A Kickstarter campaign is active now, offering free subscriptions and other bonuses in exchange for the funding to get the magazine off the ground and into your tablet. If you're interested in a new outlet for games writing (in addition to Joystiq; never stop reading Joystiq), or more stuff to read on your iPad than Atomix, why not help out?

JoystiqiPad/Android-based games mag PXL looking for assistance on Kickstarter originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Dec 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidiosipadkickstartermagazinemobilepxlTue, 06 Dec 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Protip: GamePro gives up on print and online]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/30/protip-gamepro-gives-up-on-print-and-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/30/protip-gamepro-gives-up-on-print-and-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/30/protip-gamepro-gives-up-on-print-and-online/#comments
Gaming magazine icon GamePro announced that the November issue - its first quarterly installment - will be its last, after 20-plus continuous years of publishing. The website will also be closed, effective December 5, IndustryGamers reports. If you're looking for gaming content, expect to be redirected to "the PCWorld GamePro channel on pcworld.com," publisher IDG says. And that means that GamePro's editorial staff is out, while PCWorld's will attempt to make up the slack.

But GamePro isn't going away completely; instead, it's "refocusing its US business exclusively on its growing custom publishing and solutions business." That means custom content, like the E3 show daily, which publisher IDG and GamePro historically produce. But for you, dear reader, GamePro is dead. So we leave you with the above video, of a simpler time, when magazines still ruled and jean jackets were still cool.

RIP GamePro, and good luck (former) GamePro staff.

JoystiqProtip: GamePro gives up on print and online originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 Nov 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gameproidgmagazineprintWed, 30 Nov 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EGM Media to produce Walmart gaming mag]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/egm-media-to-produce-walmart-gaming-mag/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/egm-media-to-produce-walmart-gaming-mag/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/egm-media-to-produce-walmart-gaming-mag/#comments Walmart logo Apparently, keeping one of the longest running gaming magazines going isn't enough work for the folks at Electronic Gaming Monthly. The mag's publisher, EGM Media, has announced plans to launch a new magazine exclusively for Walmart.

Appropriately titled Walmart Gamecenter, the "regular frequency" magazine will offer "news, previews, interviews and other exclusive stories about gaming culture and the most important game releases." In addition to the print publication at Walmart stores, the magazine will also be offered via "personal computers, iPad and Facebook with EGM's proprietary ScreenPaper publishing platform."

The first issue debuts December 6.

Continue reading EGM Media to produce Walmart gaming mag

JoystiqEGM Media to produce Walmart gaming mag originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Nov 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>egmegm-mediamagazinewalmartwalmart-gamecenterFri, 04 Nov 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Just a few hours left to fund 'Fort90Zine4Answer' on Kickstarter]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/27/just-a-few-hours-left-to-fund-fort90zine4answer-on-kickstarter/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/27/just-a-few-hours-left-to-fund-fort90zine4answer-on-kickstarter/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/27/just-a-few-hours-left-to-fund-fort90zine4answer-on-kickstarter/#comments Even if a new magazine isn't distributed exclusively on iPad, the internet can still help in its distribution. For "Fort90Zine4Answer," the fourth issue of the game art and culture zine Fort90Zine, Matt "Fort90" Hawkins set up a Kickstarter account to cover the costs of production, with any extra funds going to the contributors.

With just a few hours left until the 5:13PM ET deadline, Fort90 has raised over $1,400 of his original $500 goal. So those contributors will be rewarded well! Even though the goal has been more than reached, you're welcome to continue funding the project.

Bonuses for those who chip in include your names in the acknowledgements, issues of the zine and its two immediate predecessors, and even prints of the previous issue's cover, featuring art by Skullgirls lead animator Mariel Cartwright.

JoystiqJust a few hours left to fund 'Fort90Zine4Answer' on Kickstarter originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Apr 2011 14:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fort90fort90zinefort90zine4answerkickstartermagazinematt-hawkinszineWed, 27 Apr 2011 14:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Area 5 producing monthly 'Atomix' magazine for iPad]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/08/area-5-producing-monthly-atomix-magazine-for-ipad/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/08/area-5-producing-monthly-atomix-magazine-for-ipad/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/08/area-5-producing-monthly-atomix-magazine-for-ipad/#comments Area 5, who produces the Co-op video series, has partnered with Mexican game mag Atomix to make your iPad useful. They launched an English-language version of Atomix yesterday as an iPad-native app, with articles and layouts designed to take full advantage of the device. You can swipe to scroll through articles, tilt to load galleries, and play embedded video within each article. It's also really pretty!

The app is downloadable for free through the App Store. Each month, a new issue will be available in-app for 99 cents. For a preview of the magazine (or for a chance to experience it vicariously, if you don't have an iPad) check the video after the break.

Continue reading Area 5 producing monthly 'Atomix' magazine for iPad

JoystiqArea 5 producing monthly 'Atomix' magazine for iPad originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Apr 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>area-5atomixipadmagazinemobileFri, 08 Apr 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Rising 2's ZQ magazine lets you 'stay sharp, die smart']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/01/dead-rising-2s-zq-magazine-lets-you-stay-sharp-die-smart/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/01/dead-rising-2s-zq-magazine-lets-you-stay-sharp-die-smart/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/01/dead-rising-2s-zq-magazine-lets-you-stay-sharp-die-smart/#comments Reviewer's guides are not uncommon for new games, but Capcom gets an A+ for the effort put into the guide for Dead Rising 2. "ZQ" is a magazine that not only offers hints and tips for a trek through Fortune City, but goes the extra mile with flavor text and advertisements that make the zombie-infested world feel entirely real.

Continue reading Dead Rising 2's ZQ magazine lets you 'stay sharp, die smart'

JoystiqDead Rising 2's ZQ magazine lets you 'stay sharp, die smart' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 14:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomdead-rising-2magazinemicrosoftplaystationps3reviewers-guidexboxzqFri, 01 Oct 2010 14:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Best Buy taps Future US for new game mag: @Gamer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/11/best-buy-taps-future-us-for-new-game-mag-gamer/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/11/best-buy-taps-future-us-for-new-game-mag-gamer/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/11/best-buy-taps-future-us-for-new-game-mag-gamer/#comments Andy Eddy seems like a regular guy. He's got some sweet scruff and nothing on his Facebook page looks out of the ordinary, so -- wait, what's this? Apparently Mr. Eddy is "working at Future US in the Future Plus group on a new publication called @Gamer, the 'official games magazine of Best Buy.'" For real?

It's news to us and certainly the first that Kyle Orland, ex-Joystiq blogger and devilishly handsome chap who noticed the blurb, has heard about it. While we're inclined to point out the obvious to Best Buy (uh, game mags are pretty dead, bro), we're interested in seeing how far this will go. Real editorial content or a glorified shopper's guide? We can't wait to find out!

[Via The Game Beat]

JoystiqBest Buy taps Future US for new game mag: @Gamer originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 May 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>andy-eddybest-buyfuturefuture-plus-groupFuture-publishingfuture-usgamermagmagazineTue, 11 May 2010 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Revived EGM's first issue has Street Fighter covered]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/08/new-egm-first-issue-has-street-fighter-cover/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/08/new-egm-first-issue-has-street-fighter-cover/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/08/new-egm-first-issue-has-street-fighter-cover/#commentsIt ended with Ryu and Ken, and now it's starting anew with the same pair of World Warriors. The two covers of the first issue of the new EGM relaunch have been revealed. Each variant depicts either Ryu or Ken as seen in the upcoming Super Street Fighter IV. (The last, unpublished issue of Ziff Davis's EGM featured Street Fighter IV on the cover, as well.) Perhaps it's a coincidence, due to the timing of the release of Super Street Fighter IV later this month, but the new covers could certainly be a nod to the magazine's former incarnation. Of course, it's not like Street Fighter covers are unusual for EGM.

In addition to those historically relevant images of Ryu and Ken, the covers reveal the contents of the issue, including a large feature about the history and future of fighting games, an in-depth examination of Super Street Fighter IV and a discussion of new retro-style games.

JoystiqRevived EGM's first issue has Street Fighter covered originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Apr 2010 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>egmegm-nowmagazinessfivstreet-fightersuper-street-fighter-ivThu, 08 Apr 2010 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Portal 2 confirmed by Game Informer cover, due in 2010]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/05/portal-2-confirmed-by-game-informer-cover-due-in-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/05/portal-2-confirmed-by-game-informer-cover-due-in-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/05/portal-2-confirmed-by-game-informer-cover-due-in-2010/#comments The past week's bizarre pair of updates to Portal seemed to point towards an impending announcement of a sequel, and, well, they did. Game Informer has revealed that its April 2010 cover story is none other than ... Portal 2 -- which Valve has given a release window of "this holiday season." The magazine's site teases the 12-page feature, calling the game "a full-fledged, standalone sequel" with "new gameplay mechanics, storyline, and some surprising new twists."

We'd venture a guess that one of those twists has to do with wherever the portal featured in the cover art leads to -- a misty, jungle setting where some sort of seemingly derelict facility stands, overrun with vines. The flip-side of the cover is (cleverly) a view back through this portal into a familiar Aperture Science setting. Finally, the single cover line mentions "the people who are still alive," a potential hint at a reason for venturing into the new setting in the first place.

The issue should be hitting subscribers' mailboxes soon. Check out the full covers after the break.

Source -- Game Informer
Source -- Valve

Continue reading Portal 2 confirmed by Game Informer cover, due in 2010

JoystiqPortal 2 confirmed by Game Informer cover, due in 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 05 Mar 2010 13:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>game-informermagazineportalportal-2valveFri, 05 Mar 2010 13:05:00 EST<![CDATA[EGM Now launches with ... digitized final issue of old EGM?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/19/egm-now-launches-with-digitized-final-issue-of-old-egm/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/19/egm-now-launches-with-digitized-final-issue-of-old-egm/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/19/egm-now-launches-with-digitized-final-issue-of-old-egm/#comments We've been hearing about Steve Harris's digital version of the soon-to-be relaunched EGM for quite some time now, and we're just one month away from the magazine's return to newsstands. However, if you're trying to get an early peek at what Harris has in store for EGMi: The Digital Magazine (that he's said will be released supplementally between print issues), now's your chance. But what's this? The mysterious unreleased "last issue"of EGM? It is!

As Harris puts it, "The links on this cover page aren't live yet - but they will be long before Summer arrives." Okay, okay, it might've taken a year for the issue to become available -- and yes, it might be full of content on games that have been out for quite some time now -- but hey, it's a chance to explore "layers and depth that you control." Doesn't that seem enticing? Well, we're not really sure quite yet, as the Screen Paper-based issue has yet to incorporate the promises we've been hearing since last September. With grand plans for the release of a digital magazine every week once the print mag relaunches, we'll certainly see how this shakes out soon enough.

JoystiqEGM Now launches with ... digitized final issue of old EGM? originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Feb 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>egmegm-nowegmiegmi-the-digital-magazinelost-issuemagazinemediaprintscreen-papersteve-harrisstreet-fighter-ivFri, 19 Feb 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Can Apple save gaming magazines?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/26/can-apple-save-gaming-magazines/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/26/can-apple-save-gaming-magazines/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/26/can-apple-save-gaming-magazines/#comments
[SI.com; tablet concept]
What do these publications have in common: EGM, Games for Windows, Official PlayStation Magazine, Computer Games Magazine, Tips and Tricks, GMR, Xbox Nation, and Massive? Video games, sure, but all have also perished in the last five years. With the looming announcement of Apple's long-rumored tablet device, there's a chance that gaming magazines may finally be able to stop the bleeding.

It's no secret that just about every video game magazine out there is hurting right now -- save for the absurdly colossal Game Informer (its unique arrangement with GameStop provides the publication with a seemingly infinite subscriber base eager to save on used-game purchases and get extra trade-in credit). The magazine world in general has been hit hard by the evaporation of advertising dollars, and gaming publications have been subjected to some of the worst of that storm due to the movement of their traditionally tech-savvy audience away from print and to digital media.

However, Apple is rumored to be launching a device that could make magazines cool again and help the gaming print media crawl off its deathbed. The Wall Street Journal reported several days ago on information from anonymous sources that Apple has been in talks with several print media corporations, including Conde Nast, one of the largest magazine publishers in the world, to bring its publications to Apple's long-rumored tablet PC -- expected to be announced tomorrow, January 27, at a press event in San Francisco. The article speculated that Apple has plans to use this new device to redefine print media in much the same way that iTunes and the iPod revolutionized the monetization of music.

Continue reading Can Apple save gaming magazines?

JoystiqCan Apple save gaming magazines? originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Jan 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleapple-tabletdigitaldigital-magazinee-magazineezinegamingipadiPodislateitabletmagazinepublishingtablettablet-magazineTue, 26 Jan 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rockstar: LA Noire getting cover story reveal next month]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/21/rockstar-la-noire-getting-cover-story-reveal-next-month/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/21/rockstar-la-noire-getting-cover-story-reveal-next-month/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/21/rockstar-la-noire-getting-cover-story-reveal-next-month/#comments In the very same official Q&A where it finally responded to the complaints of the Rockstar Spouses, Rockstar brings up an old friend we haven't heard from in a while: L.A. Noire, the "innovative," possibly console-based, "Ellroy-esque" game that's been in development almost since its noir inspired Los Angeles setting was current. It says that we'll finally get a good look at the game and why it's supposed to be so great as soon as "next month" courtesy of "a big cover story." What magazine? That's still a hush hush, on-the-QT and off the record secret.

But said cover story (Time? Popular Science? Dog Fancy?) will reportedly contain information about why both the look and "the amazing new technology" of the game are worth the wait. We would say not to hold your breath, but everyone still holding their breath for LA Noire turned blue and passed out about a year ago. Still, we're interested, so we'll keep eyes peeled on the magazine stands next month.

[via G4TV]

JoystiqRockstar: LA Noire getting cover story reveal next month originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 21 Jan 2010 20:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cover-storyellroyla-confidentialla-noiremagazinerockstarrockstar-gamessettingteam-bonditechnologytimeThu, 21 Jan 2010 20:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Kill Screen gaming mag aiming for highbrow readers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/02/kill-screen-gaming-mag-aiming-for-highbrow-readers/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/02/kill-screen-gaming-mag-aiming-for-highbrow-readers/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/02/kill-screen-gaming-mag-aiming-for-highbrow-readers/#comments Between John Davison recently promising a revitalization of GamePro, Steve Harris' purchase and subsequent relaunch of EGM (as EGM Now), and now the announcement of "Kill Screen" from Jamin Brophy-Warren and Chris Dahlen, it's been quite the year for gaming magazines. But Kill Screen seems to be taking a decidedly different approach to publishing, aiming its first print run at "2 or 3,000 copies," Brophy-Warren told us this afternoon.

With an editorial directive to thematically tackle game writing -- and no obligation to the traditional reviews/previews/news format due to a donation/subscriber-funded, non-profit approach -- Kill Screen intends to avoid the mechanical nitty gritty that plagues game writing. "A great example of that is with Brütal Legend," Brophy-Warren said. "Tim Schafer had to come out and defend the RTS elements ... When we talk about games critically, it's not going to be in that sense."

The first issue, the "test run" or "zero issue" as it's being called, will be finished in "the next week or two" and shipping by January. Brophy-Warren added that he's hoping the second issue will be ready for GDC, but he's not so certain. And as for the short initial print run, he says "Everyone's gotta start somewhere, right?" and encourages people to subscribe to insure they'll get a copy. We wish them the best of luck!

JoystiqKill Screen gaming mag aiming for highbrow readers originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brutal-legendchris-dahlenegmegm-nowgame-magazinegameprogdc-2010jamin-brophy-warrenkill-screenmagazineprintWed, 02 Dec 2009 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Splinter Cell: Conviction to have co-op, new multiplayer mode]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/29/report-splinter-cell-conviction-to-have-co-op-new-multiplayer/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/29/report-splinter-cell-conviction-to-have-co-op-new-multiplayer/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/29/report-splinter-cell-conviction-to-have-co-op-new-multiplayer/#comments According to a recent post on CVG, the publishing partner of PC Zone magazine, the next issue of the latter will drop some knowledge on us regarding Splinter Cell: Conviction's multiplayer modes. CVG reports that the last issue of PC Zone teases an article on Conviction, claiming the piece will feature "hands-on, co-op reveal and a brand new mode."

If the game truly does have co-operative play, then we're kinda bummed about the aesthetic changes the title has undergone over the past year. Can you imagine: Secret two-man hobo operations to blow up a whole park's worth of hot dog stands? Party game of the year.

Gallery: Splinter Cell Conviction

JoystiqReport: Splinter Cell: Conviction to have co-op, new multiplayer mode originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 29 Nov 2009 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>co-opmagazineMicrosoftmultiplayersplinter-cellsplinter-cell-convictionubisoftXbox-360Sun, 29 Nov 2009 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Epic Mickey confirmed by epic Game Informer cover]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/05/epic-mickey-confirmed-by-epic-game-informer-cover/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/05/epic-mickey-confirmed-by-epic-game-informer-cover/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/05/epic-mickey-confirmed-by-epic-game-informer-cover/#comments Considering the amount of concept art and leaked details we've heard concerning Disney Interactive Studios and Junction Point's upcoming collaboration, this might not come as a shock to you, but the cover of the next issue of Game Informer confirms the existence of Epic Mickey. Details are slim, but we now know that it'll be a Wii-exclusive action title and, based on the paintbrush grasped by the iconic rodent on the cover, we suspect it will incorporate the illustrative elements mentioned by an anonymous informant back in July.

Hopefully more details will surface when Game Informer's interview with Warren Spector goes live later today. For now, revel in the fact that the title is real -- and based on the art seen on the magazine's cover (the full version of which is posted after the jump), it might just deserve its "epic" designation.

Continue reading Epic Mickey confirmed by epic Game Informer cover

JoystiqEpic Mickey confirmed by epic Game Informer cover originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Oct 2009 13:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>disneydisney-interactiveepic-mickeygame-informerjunction-point-studiosmagazineNintendoWiiMon, 05 Oct 2009 13:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Interview: EGM Now's Steve Harris]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/11/interview-egm-nows-steve-harris/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/11/interview-egm-nows-steve-harris/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/11/interview-egm-nows-steve-harris/#comments
Following the closure of Electronic Gaming Monthly by parent company Ziff Davis Media earlier this year (after nearly 20 years in the game industry), the magazine's original founder Steve Harris repurchased the rights and promised a rebirth for EGM. We ran into Harris at E3 2009 and cajoled him into speaking with us about his purchase. (He was a bit busy with business at E3, as you might imagine, thus we're talking a few months later.)

Though we're still a little ways off from the mag's December 1 "return," he gave us a few hints of what to expect, his explanation of how EGM Now will succeed financially where "old EGM" failed, and a few of his favorite games on the current-gen systems.

Hit the break for the whole thing.

Continue reading Interview: EGM Now's Steve Harris

JoystiqInterview: EGM Now's Steve Harris originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 Sep 2009 15:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2009egmegm-nowelectronic-gaming-monthlyinterviewinterviewsjournalismmagazinesteve-harrisFri, 11 Sep 2009 15:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Future, Blizzard launch World of Warcraft: The Magazine]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/20/future-blizzard-launch-world-of-warcraft-the-magazine/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/20/future-blizzard-launch-world-of-warcraft-the-magazine/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/20/future-blizzard-launch-world-of-warcraft-the-magazine/#comments It's a sad fact, World of Warcraft players, but an unavoidable one: You have to go to the bathroom. Though that most private of times was once filled with the WoW player's kryptonite (self-reflection) you can now while away the minutes with World of Warcraft: The Magazine, a joint endeavor from Future and Blizzard. The subscription-only magazine will launch simultaneously in English, French, German, and Spanish.

We're happy to see companies taking a chance on a new publication, and we think there's a shot that this more specialized approach can work. What we're a little bit less sure about is the price: $39.99 for four quarterly issues. Here's hoping the (admittedly advertising-free) content can live up to the premium charge.

JoystiqFuture, Blizzard launch World of Warcraft: The Magazine originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Aug 2009 12:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardfuturemagazineworld-of-warcraftwowThu, 20 Aug 2009 12:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Future US president calls it quits]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/18/future-us-president-calls-it-quits/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/18/future-us-president-calls-it-quits/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/18/future-us-president-calls-it-quits/#comments
Yes, 12-year-old Billy Caruthers, projected winner of the 2036 presidential election has decided to resign from his pending office in order to dodge controversy surrounding his pending extramarital affair. He -- oh, wait. We totally misread that headline. The president of magazine publisher Future US, Jonathan Simpson-Bint, is stepping down August 31 in order to start up his own business. Simpson-Bint has been working with the company for 18 years, and oversaw the launch of PSM, IGN.com and DailyRadar.com.

Future is currently looking for Simpson-Bint's replacement -- if you've got experience managing humongous publishing companies, yet find yourself working as a lowly fry cook at your local Carl's Jr., perhaps its time you gained some upward mobility.

JoystiqFuture US president calls it quits originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 18 Jun 2009 19:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>futurefuture-usmagazinemediapublishingThu, 18 Jun 2009 19:55:00 EST<![CDATA[EGM sold to original founder, resumes publication this year ]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/egm-sold-to-original-founder-resuming-publication-this-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/egm-sold-to-original-founder-resuming-publication-this-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/egm-sold-to-original-founder-resuming-publication-this-year/#comments Electronic Gaming Monthly, which died when UGO bought out the 1UP brand in January, is being resurrected by its original founder, Steve Harris. Harris, who started EGM in 1989, has regained the print and online publishing rights from Ziff Davis Media as part of an undisclosed agreement. Harris intends to relaunch the magazine in the second half of 2009 and says he has "exciting plans for the evolution of what will once again be a leading independent voice for the gaming community."

There's no word yet on whether ex-EGM staff will be making a return to the magazine, or if Harris is in talks with UGO to re-establish a partnership with 1UP, but more details are due to be revealed during E3 next week. We guess in this case print really isn't dead.

JoystiqEGM sold to original founder, resumes publication this year originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 May 2009 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EGMElectronic-Gaming-MonthlymagazineSteve-HarrisUGOZiff-DavisFri, 29 May 2009 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Game Informer larger than Time, Playboy and Maxim ... even Oprah]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/01/game-informer-larger-than-time-playboy-and-maxim-even-oprah/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/01/game-informer-larger-than-time-playboy-and-maxim-even-oprah/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/01/game-informer-larger-than-time-playboy-and-maxim-even-oprah/#comments
Wow, we knew Game Informer was doing well, but we had no idea it was beating out the big boys of publishing with a +3 Hammer of Smackdown. BurrellesLuce has released its list of top media outlets in 2009 for PR professionals and the performance of Game Informer either speaks to the power of its bundling with the GameStop Edge card, or the utter collapse of the rest of the magazine industry. The gaming magazine has a "paid and verified circulation" of 3,517,598 -- that's better than several marquee magazines, including Sports Illustrated, Newsweek, Cosmo and TV Guide.

In the blog category, Joystiq took the #19 spot. We're apparently doing well against the "Queen of all Media," Perez Hilton, according to Technorati's Authority Figures, so we thank all of you -- our loyal readership -- for that. Cheers!

Continue reading Game Informer larger than Time, Playboy and Maxim ... even Oprah

JoystiqGame Informer larger than Time, Playboy and Maxim ... even Oprah originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Apr 2009 17:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>burrelles-luceburrelleslucegame-informermagazinemagazinesWed, 01 Apr 2009 17:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Two GamePro executives leave amid news that everything is great]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/09/two-gamepro-executives-leave-amid-news-that-everything-is-great/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/09/two-gamepro-executives-leave-amid-news-that-everything-is-great/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/09/two-gamepro-executives-leave-amid-news-that-everything-is-great/#commentsTwo top executives at GamePro magazine, President and CEO Daniel Orum and SVP and Publisher Bob Huseby, have left the company. GameDaily reports that Huseby will be joining Wikia, and Orum's next position is unknown. Concurrent with these departures is the arrival of Ziff Davis's Marci Yamaguchi Hughes as executive vice president and general manager.

GamePro Senior Vice President and Executive Creative Director George Jones told GameDaily that the shifts were a "weird confluence of events that aren't related at all." He said that the publication is "in a really good place now," especially since the loss of major multiplatform competitor Electronic Gaming Monthly.

Remember when Ziff Davis went bankrupt last year, and said it wasn't actually bad news for its magazines? We're hoping that this isn't a similar situation, and that those two executives really did leave at the same time for basically no reason.

JoystiqTwo GamePro executives leave amid news that everything is great originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Feb 2009 17:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gameproindustrymagazineMon, 09 Feb 2009 17:31:00 EST<![CDATA['Would you like a subscription to Cosmo with your Wii Fit today?']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/06/would-you-like-a-subscription-to-cosmo-with-your-wii-fit-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/06/would-you-like-a-subscription-to-cosmo-with-your-wii-fit-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/06/would-you-like-a-subscription-to-cosmo-with-your-wii-fit-today/#commentsFiled under:


We've all likely been accosted by a Gamestop employee, at one time or another, about a subscription to Game Informer or a strategy guide to go along with the title we were planning to pick up or something. Well, it would seem that Gamestop is perfecting their craft, targeting folks with a need for exergaming with subscriptions to mags such as Cosmo and Redbook.

Unlike other solicitations from the retail giant, this is actually free, though, which is a big improvement for them. Upon purchasing select exergaming items of $35 or more (semi-full list of qualifying items can be found past the break), Gamestop will toss in a 12-month subscription to either Cosmopolitan, Marie Claire, Redbook, Good Housekeeping or O Magazine. Head past the break for the products that were mentioned to be part of this promotion.

Continue reading 'Would you like a subscription to Cosmo with your Wii Fit today?'

Joystiq'Would you like a subscription to Cosmo with your Wii Fit today?' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Jan 2009 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>exergaminggamestopmagazinemagazinespromotionwii-fitTue, 06 Jan 2009 12:58:00 EST<![CDATA[GameStop offering Cosmo, O Mag subscriptions to fitness game buyers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/05/gamestop-offering-cosmo-o-mag-subscriptions-to-fitness-game-buy/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/05/gamestop-offering-cosmo-o-mag-subscriptions-to-fitness-game-buy/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/05/gamestop-offering-cosmo-o-mag-subscriptions-to-fitness-game-buy/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Is the female or effeminate male in your life looking a bit chub after the holidays? Then stop on in at GameStop and get them a fitness game and a free 12-month trial subscription to either Cosmopolitan, Marie Claire, Redbook, Good Housekeeping or O Magazine. GameStop's "Sharpen the Mind, Shape the Body" promotion emphasizes fitness games and offers magazine trials on select purchases of over $35 until Feb. 22. We've listed a few of the "designated" products that are part of the promotion after the break.

If this casual gaming movement continues to explode, It's only a matter of time before GameStop starts offering scented candles, bath oils and potpourri. Hmm, but that means the stores will smell better. Curses, we're so torn about this trend.

Continue reading GameStop offering Cosmo, O Mag subscriptions to fitness game buyers

JoystiqGameStop offering Cosmo, O Mag subscriptions to fitness game buyers originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Jan 2009 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSgamestopmagazinemagazinesWiiwii-fitMon, 05 Jan 2009 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[EGM en Español está muerto]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/11/egm-en-espanol-esta-muerto/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/11/egm-en-espanol-esta-muerto/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/11/egm-en-espanol-esta-muerto/#commentsFiled under:

For our unilingual readers whose loose grasp on the Spanish language sent that headline careening over their heads, the Spanish version of EGM is shutting down, according to editorial director Adrián Carbajal. Their upcoming December issue (the one with the Watchmen game on the cover) will effectively serve as their last installment after a little more than six years of publication.

It should come as no surprise that the main reason Carbajal cited for the collapse of EGM en Español is the seemingly perilous future of the English language version of the mag. Should yesterday's report that UGO is looking to purchase the 1UP network sans the twenty-year-old EGM come to fruition, it's unlikely that we'll see many more issues of the gaming magazine we tucked oh-so-many times into our Junior High textbooks.

[Thanks, Josué]

JoystiqEGM en Español está muerto originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Dec 2008 12:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>egmegm-en-espanolmagazinespanishziff-davisThu, 11 Dec 2008 12:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo's move 'away from the hardcore' cited in N-Revolution mag's closure]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/03/nintendos-move-away-from-the-hardcore-cited-in-n-revolution-m/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/03/nintendos-move-away-from-the-hardcore-cited-in-n-revolution-m/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/03/nintendos-move-away-from-the-hardcore-cited-in-n-revolution-m/#commentsFiled under: , ,


MCV reports that Imagine's Nintendo-only UK magazine, No.Revolution, will cease publication. In this day and age, with ad revenue and readership down - not to mention a little thing you're using called the internet - this move doesn't exactly come as a surprise. Its publisher's reasoning for the closure does.

Imagine's managing director, Damian Butt, says that Nintendo's focus is shifting away from the magazine's readership, i.e. core gamers. "It has become increasingly obvious that Nintendo's strategy...has moved increasingly away from the hardcore gaming community that is our specialty," Butt explained.

Still, Butt says that Imagine - which also publishes gamesTM - will continue to work with Nintendo to "drive purchases of Nintendo software." We're sure it will be in an entirely objective, unbiased, above-the-board way ... of working with a company to positively influence software sales through editorial. What could be wrong with that? Oh.

JoystiqNintendo's move 'away from the hardcore' cited in N-Revolution mag's closure originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Dec 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>core-gamerimaginemagazinen-revolutionnintendoWiiWed, 03 Dec 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[For Famitsu, 428 equals 40]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/26/for-famitsu-428-equals-40/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/26/for-famitsu-428-equals-40/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/26/for-famitsu-428-equals-40/#commentsFiled under: , ,


The Famitsu 40/40 has lost some of its lustre in recent times. Since 1998, the magazine has awarded nine perfect scores, but three have come in 2008, including one for Super Smash Bros. Brawl.

However, even we found the latest game to receive the honor surprising. 428: The World Doesn't Change Even So is a "visual novel," a graphical text adventure from roguelike kings Chunsoft that keeps player interaction to a minimum. In other words, it's very unlike any other game to receive a flawless Famitsu grade. In fact, it's unlike most other games, period.

We haven't posted a great deal about 428. That's not because we don't find it interesting -- we definitely do. It's because, as Alisha has noted, a game of its ilk is almost entirely impenetrable to our western eyes. Suffice to say, it has now been instantly promoted from "intriguing curio" to "must-own import." Not that a release outside Japan will ever happen.

JoystiqFor Famitsu, 428 equals 40 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 Nov 2008 19:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>428adventurechunsoftfamitsujapanmagazinesegasound-novelvisual-novelWed, 26 Nov 2008 19:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Official Nintendo Magazine launching down under]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/12/official-nintendo-magazine-launching-down-under/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/12/official-nintendo-magazine-launching-down-under/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/12/official-nintendo-magazine-launching-down-under/#commentsFiled under:

Cheer up, Aussies and Kiwis -- even though your local Club Nintendo appears to have gone completely AWOL (checking ... nope, still nothing), you'll shortly be getting your very own version of Official Nintendo Magazine, basically the UK equivalent of Nintendo Power. That's ... almost as good. Right?

Like its Brit cousin, Official Nintendo Magazine - Australia and New Zealand will be assembled by the talented folks at Future, the same name behind such excellent time-wasting periodicals as N64 Magazine, Amiga Power, and Arcade, and who currently churn out Edge. The first issue, a special edition no less, should be hitting shelves in December for AU$8.95.

[Via press release]

JoystiqOfficial Nintendo Magazine launching down under originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Nov 2008 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiafuturefuture-publishingmagazinemedianew-zealandofficial-nintendo-magazineonmWed, 12 Nov 2008 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Popular Science names Wii Fit one of this year's best inventions]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/12/popular-science-names-wii-fit-one-of-this-years-best-inventions/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/12/popular-science-names-wii-fit-one-of-this-years-best-inventions/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/12/popular-science-names-wii-fit-one-of-this-years-best-inventions/#commentsFiled under:


Popular Science is smitten with the Balance Board and Wii Fit. In their top 100 inventions of 2008 feature, they feature the bundle and talk about the components that comprise the Balance Board. Personally, we've always been big fans of the whole package, aside from the price of the thing, so we're glad to see it get some exposure in an interesting magazine.

JoystiqPopular Science names Wii Fit one of this year's best inventions originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Nov 2008 20:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balance-boardmagazinepop-scipopular-sciencescanwii-fitWed, 12 Nov 2008 20:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Take-Two's Zelnick flexes for Men's Fitness]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/21/take-twos-zelnick-flexes-for-mens-fitness/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/21/take-twos-zelnick-flexes-for-mens-fitness/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/21/take-twos-zelnick-flexes-for-mens-fitness/#commentsFiled under: ,

men's fitness
On the surface, he has it all. A rad name. The chair of a powerful video game publisher. A chiseled bod cut from the blood, sweat and tears of a grueling 5-day workout week. (Dude has meetings while exercising -- confirmed!) But what harrowing skeletons are dangling in Take-Two chairman Strauss Zelnick's closet? ...

We're pretty certain that's not the focus of the next issue of Men's Fitness (on newsstands November 20th), but we will be treated to such compelling insights as: "When someone asks me to have a drink, I suggest the gym instead." Plus: 896 tummy tightening, calorie counting, GET LAID NOW tips!

JoystiqTake-Two's Zelnick flexes for Men's Fitness originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Oct 2008 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>magazinemens-fitnessstrauss-zelnicktake-twoTue, 21 Oct 2008 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Daily: Gaming zines]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/26/ds-daily-gaming-zines/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/26/ds-daily-gaming-zines/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/26/ds-daily-gaming-zines/#commentsFiled under:

Obviously all you computer savvy folks like to check out gaming blogs and sites to get your fill of gaming news (you're reading this right now, after all), but do you subscribe to magazines as well? If so, which ones (Nintendo Power, perhaps)?

More importantly, how do you feel about game magazines? Do you think print journalism still has a place in the video game industry? (Note: We do.)

JoystiqDS Daily: Gaming zines originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 26 Jul 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>magazinemagazinesSat, 26 Jul 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Next-gen.biz to become Edge Magazine Online]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/next-gen-biz-to-become-edge-magazine-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/next-gen-biz-to-become-edge-magazine-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/next-gen-biz-to-become-edge-magazine-online/#commentsFiled under: , ,


GamesIndustry.biz is reporting that Future's news portal Next-Gen.biz will be re-branded as the online version of the prestigious British magazine Edge on Monday, just in time for E3. There's no word on whether the change will affect the site's editorial focus, but Future spokesman Will Guyatt told GI.biz that the newly branded site will "do what Edge has done for year's in print, but online." Great news for those of us who love the magazine's thoughtful content but don't want to shell out the big bucks to import a subscription.

Next-Gen has been reprinting selected Edge magazine articles online since last May, and the magazine's previous web address currently redirects to Next-Gen's site. The move represents the re-death of the Next Generation brand, which was originally put out to pasture with the closing of the well-respected American magazine in 2001. On the plus side, when someone says "next-gen" from now on, we won't have to parse whether they mean the adjective or the web site. That was getting confusing!

JoystiqNext-gen.biz to become Edge Magazine Online originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Jul 2008 17:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EdgeFutureFuture-publishingmagazineNext GenerationNext-GenNextGenerationThu, 10 Jul 2008 17:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Promotional Consideration: Play to lose]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/06/promotional-consideration-play-to-lose/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/06/promotional-consideration-play-to-lose/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/06/promotional-consideration-play-to-lose/#commentsFiled under: , ,


As it did with My Word Coach, Ubisoft sees a lot of potential in My Weight Loss Coach (My Health Coach in Europe), putting enough money behind the nutrition and fitness trainer's marketing budget to support several print and television advertising campaigns worldwide. The publisher has timed the title's release and its promotional push perfectly, too, riding the exercise-game wave set in motion by Wii Fit.

In this edition of Promotional Consideration, we look at several of those My Weight Loss Coach advertisements to pick out the goofy details and voice our trivial complaints. Eat a light lunch, run up a flight of steps, and meet us after the break for the ads!

Continue reading Promotional Consideration: Play to lose

JoystiqPromotional Consideration: Play to lose originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 06 Jul 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>commercialfitnessluckymagazinemy-health-coachmy-weight-loss-coachpromotional-considerationpromotionalconsiderationubisfoftSun, 06 Jul 2008 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo UK mag promises Animal Crossing deets]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/nintendo-uk-mag-promises-animal-crossing-deets/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/nintendo-uk-mag-promises-animal-crossing-deets/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/nintendo-uk-mag-promises-animal-crossing-deets/#commentsFiled under:


Animal Crossing is coming. This is a fact. What form it will take when it does arrive is a deeper mystery. Somebody at the UK edition of the Official Nintendo Magazine knows the answer to this, damn them, and they aren't afraid to shout about it.

The above image (art from Animal Crossing: Wild World on the DS) appears on the "Coming Next Month" page in the latest issue of the mag, and was dutifully scanned and internetalized by a Go Nintendo reader for all of us to speculate about. "It's been a while," reads the accompanying caption, keeping us on tenterhooks. "It's time to revisit an old friend. How's your village doing these days?"

All of which is very exciting, but by the time the next edition of Official Nintendo Magazine appears (August 1st), we may have already heard more from E3. Either way, we'll know something about this game soon. Prepare your Golden Shovels, everybody!

JoystiqNintendo UK mag promises Animal Crossing deets originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Jul 2008 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animal-crossingmagazineofficial-nintendo-magazineonmteaserukWed, 02 Jul 2008 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo Power's moon reveals its secret]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/27/nintendo-powers-moon-reveals-its-secret/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/27/nintendo-powers-moon-reveals-its-secret/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/27/nintendo-powers-moon-reveals-its-secret/#commentsFiled under:

And we totally called it. That's right: the meaning of the much-discussed moon that featured prominently in Nintendo Power had nothing to do with Disgaea, Metroid, Earthbound, or a ... Balance Board-compatible sequel to Michael Jackson's Moonwalker? You people are strange.

So it's Castlevania: Order of Ecclesia, which may seem like a disappointment to some (compared to, y'know, Earthbound), but hey: at least we get oodles of new details. According to Nintendo Power, this IGAvania is set in the mid-1800s and stars the series' first ever female protagonist, Shanoa. The magazine that there are "no real weapons in this game," with glyphs that can change form (for example, into a sword) Shanoa's weapon of choice.

There's a mass of other details waiting for you after the break -- don't forget your whip glyphs.

Continue reading Nintendo Power's moon reveals its secret

JoystiqNintendo Power's moon reveals its secret originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 May 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actioncastlevaniakonamimagazinenintendo-powerorder-of-ecclesiaplatformTue, 27 May 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Promotional Consideration: Advertising with Power, revisited]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/11/promotional-consideration-advertising-with-power-revisited/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/11/promotional-consideration-advertising-with-power-revisited/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/11/promotional-consideration-advertising-with-power-revisited/#commentsFiled under:


If you recall, back in November, we put up a short piece on the increasing number of ads in Nintendo Power after the magazine was handed over to Future US, the same publisher behind the official Xbox and PlayStation magazines.

Chris Slate, Nintendo Power's new editor in chief, explained the ad-bloated issues: "Love or hate the ads, their number should go down significantly over the next couple of issues as we move away from the busy holiday selling season. We saw a huge upswing in ad pages last month because more games than ever are being released right now for the red-hot Wii and DS. However, new titles will slow down midway through December, and the ads will follow suit."

So, now that we've put a few months in between us and December, has the magazine kept its promise, scaling back the number of ads in favor of delivering more news, reviews, and previews? Jump past the post break for the breakdown.

Continue reading Promotional Consideration: Advertising with Power, revisited

JoystiqPromotional Consideration: Advertising with Power, revisited originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 11 May 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingfuturemagazinenintendo-powerpromotional-considerationpromotionalconsiderationSun, 11 May 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Promotional Consideration: Moons, Zombies, Dodgeballs, and Tactics]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/04/promotional-consideration-moons-zombies-dodgeballs-and-tacti/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/04/promotional-consideration-moons-zombies-dodgeballs-and-tacti/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/04/promotional-consideration-moons-zombies-dodgeballs-and-tacti/#commentsFiled under: ,



Aside from its preview page tease and Time Hollow's localization, there wasn't much in the way of exclusive DS news in this month's Nintendo Power, at least compared to what we've seen in recent issues.

Paging through the magazine, however, we spotted at least two advertisements that we wanted to share with you. As we were tearing them out to throw into our scanner, we thought, "Why not post all of the other DS ads (and the cover)?" Join us past the break for the scanned pages!

Continue reading Promotional Consideration: Moons, Zombies, Dodgeballs, and Tactics

JoystiqPromotional Consideration: Moons, Zombies, Dodgeballs, and Tactics originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 04 May 2008 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisementaerosmithaksysarc-system-worksdodgeballffta2final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-tacticsgrimoire-of-the-riftharvest-moonignition-entertainmentinlight-entertainmentmagazinemarvelous-interactivenatsumenintendo-powerplatformersquare-enixsrpgsuper-dodgeball-brawlersteenage-zombiesSun, 04 May 2008 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Today in Joystiq: May 1, 2008]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/01/today-in-joystiq-may-1-2008/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/01/today-in-joystiq-may-1-2008/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/01/today-in-joystiq-may-1-2008/#commentsFiled under:

Do you remember this cover? It was the premiere issue of Next Generation magazine from January 1995. Joystiq reader David has scanned in the cover art of every issue between then and January 2002 and thrown them on Flickr. He's also selling them, if you care to see what's on the second pages. Check out the highlights for today:

Joystiquery
Joyswag: Win Grand Theft Auto IV on your platform of choice
Off the Grid: The new roommates
X3F Week in Review: April 25, 2008 - May 1, 2008

News
PS3 Burnout Paradise gets cartography update
Hudson US president resigns post
Infogrames buying Atari outright for $11 million
Turbine secures $40 million investment
Activision CEO says US economy could cause console price drop
Capcom embraces Mega Man's 'milking,' asks for full Mega Man games list
Blizzard acquires Diablo3.com, nothing to see (yet)
Whip it real good, Lego Indiana Jones site now live
Clover staff credits cut from Okami Wii, original director 'shocked'
GTA IV could become Xbox Live's top game
BBFC defends against PEGI supporters
Penny Arcade Adventures: Episode One is gold, due out 'later this quarter' for $20
Tecmo Bowl Kickoff lands on DS this fall
Report: Only 11% of Wii games score above 80%
Qmotions to bring 'active gaming' controllers to Xbox 360
Rock Band creators make the 2008 Time 100 list
Playable MGS1 flashbacks in MGS4, teases trailer
PSN Thursday: Echochrome and Canadian equality
Activision not attending E3 2008
New Street Fighter IV screens punch out classic bosses
New Street Fighter IV screens punch out classic bosses

Rumors & Speculation
Rumor: Layoffs at THQ's Rainbow Studios and Sandblast Games

Culture & Community
R-Type Command to include R-9 collectible
Miyamoto voted 'Your' Time Person of the Year
Adam Sessler and Jack Thompson debate GTA on NPR

JoystiqToday in Joystiq: May 1, 2008 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 01 May 2008 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dailyrecapmagazinenext-gennext-generationThu, 01 May 2008 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[British magazine giving away free Wii Wheel]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/30/british-magazine-giving-away-free-wii-wheel/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/30/british-magazine-giving-away-free-wii-wheel/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/30/british-magazine-giving-away-free-wii-wheel/#commentsFiled under: ,


Here's something: despite our initial skepticism, we actually really like the Wii Wheel -- in fact, it's all we use now for Mario Kart Wii. The only downside? At $10 per wheel (or £7 in the UK), buying enough for four-player matches can get kind of pricey.

So the way we see it, you have two choices:
  1. Go with one of our totally awesome (and totally free) homemade Wii Wheels (the option we'd recommend) or:
  2. Pick up the latest issue of NGamer, which comes with the above "free" wheel packed in. It's not technically free, obviously, because you'll have to pony up the £4.99 for the magazine, which optimistically suggests that the free gift is worth £7, meaning somebody in NGamer's accounting department may well be clearing their desk later this month.
Incidentally, while NGamer is a UK publication, some of my U.S-based colleagues think they may have spotted copies in Barnes & Noble, so keep your eyes peeled and you too might save hundreds of cents.

Update: Corrected U.S. price.



[Via Go Nintendo]

JoystiqBritish magazine giving away free Wii Wheel originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 Apr 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>freefreebiemagazinemario-kartmario-kart-wiiracingukwii-wheelWed, 30 Apr 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Print gaming journalism may be on its way out, says 1UP's Cox]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/13/print-gaming-journalism-on-its-way-out-says-1ups-cox/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/13/print-gaming-journalism-on-its-way-out-says-1ups-cox/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/13/print-gaming-journalism-on-its-way-out-says-1ups-cox/#commentsFiled under:

We can still fondly recall those afternoons during our formative years when, while returning from school, we would notice a rolled-up, plastic sheathed bundle of gaming journalism joy poking out of our mailbox. We're sure it's an occasion that most of you can warm-heartedly remember as well, whether your poison was Nintendo Power or Electronic Gaming Monthly. Unfortunately, in a recent interview with the mighty Ombudsman, 1UP's Simon Cox spoke about the closing of Games For Windows magazine, and how EGM (as well as print gaming journalism as a whole) may have an expiration date.

Cox explained that "dollars and eyes," particularly the beady, sunken eyes of PC gamers, are continually moving away from print media and towards internet publications, stripping the ink-and-papers of their subscribers, advertisers and, eventually, life. Cox remarked that while EGM still has a great deal of spunk, and is supported by a body of loyal readers, it too will eventually be crushed by the incipient, grim claw of new media. The fact that you're reading this right now may support his claim -- have your gaming news consuming habits changed over the past few years?

JoystiqPrint gaming journalism may be on its way out, says 1UP's Cox originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 13 Apr 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1UPEGMgamejournalismgamesforwindowsgfwjournalismmagazinesimon-coxsimoncoxSun, 13 Apr 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Games for Windows Magazine goes online-only]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/08/games-for-windows-magazine-goes-online-only/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/08/games-for-windows-magazine-goes-online-only/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/08/games-for-windows-magazine-goes-online-only/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The list of defunct video game magazines has grown quite a bit over the last few years: Tips & Tricks; Computer Games; the Official PlayStation Magazine (the old one, not the new one). Well, we can add another name to the list today, as Ziff Davis just announced that Games for Windows: The Official Magazine will no longer exist in its print form.

In announcing the move, effective as of the April/May issue, Ziff Davis Vice President Simon Cox assured readers that the decision had "nothing to do with the Chapter 11 stuff," and everything to do with the computer gaming audience's massive migration to online news sources. The magazine's editorial staff will be transferred to computer game coverage on 1UP.com, Cox said, though the magazine's art team will be moving on. Current subscribers will be able to transfer their subscriptions to Electronic Gaming Monthly or request a refund PC Mag, according to 1UP's Dan Hsu [updated with correction from Hsu himself @ 3:09].

The decision marks the end of the run for a magazine that started in 1981 as Computer Gaming World and leaves Electronic Gaming Monthly as Ziff Davis' only print video game magazine and Future's PC Gamer as America's only computer game-focused print mag. Will this latest streamlining help attract interest in the long-offered sale of the Ziff Davis Game Group? Given the widespread contraction of the magazine market, we can't say it would hurt.

JoystiqGames for Windows Magazine goes online-only originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 Apr 2008 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>death-of-printgames-for-windowsmagazinemagazinesPCprintziff-davisTue, 08 Apr 2008 14:45:00 EST