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[Krew Studios' 'Project Orb' is as close to CUBE as we're going to get]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/krew-studios-project-orb-is-as-close-to-cube-as-were-going-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/krew-studios-project-orb-is-as-close-to-cube-as-were-going-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/krew-studios-project-orb-is-as-close-to-cube-as-were-going-t/#comments "It's coming. A game unlike anything you've ever seen. Prepare yourself ... for CUBE!"

The still nascent Krew Studios isn't doing much to distinguish itself from the developer of the fictional CUBE, if you ask us. This week, the studio announced intentions to create an Xbox 360 title for release this year, currently named "Project Orb," and frankly, we can't help but draw comparisons to the faux game trailer of yore.

For starters, we don't know a damn thing about Project Orb, other than some unbelievably ambiguous screens and a mention in the company's announce PR that the project "will indeed be a music title."

That's not exactly surprising, given the pedigree behind Krew Studios -- co-founder Michael Yum was an executive producer at PM Studios, whose last project was DJ Max Fever. Even more importantly, however, is the other half of that duo: famed music industry exec Clarence Avant.

"Clarence and I really wanted to start with something that could revolutionize the music industry as well as help rebuild a market that was considered sinking as of late 2010," Yum notes in the announcement. We'll get our first chance to see exactly what Yum means in the not so distant future it seems, as he also said that "further announcements will be made shortly." For now, gaze upon the orbs above and below ... if you dare.

Gallery: Project Orb

Continue reading Krew Studios' 'Project Orb' is as close to CUBE as we're going to get

JoystiqKrew Studios' 'Project Orb' is as close to CUBE as we're going to get originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clarence-avantdj-max-feverkrew-studiosmicrosoftmusicpm-studiosproject-orbrelease-daterhythmxboxWed, 15 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Megadeth tracks arrive for Rocksmith]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/14/new-megadeth-tracks-arrive-for-rocksmith/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/14/new-megadeth-tracks-arrive-for-rocksmith/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/14/new-megadeth-tracks-arrive-for-rocksmith/#comments Are the instructional tunes included in Ubisoft's Rocksmith proving too easy for your Malmsteem-esque digits? Don't rub it in -- instead, download and subsequently be punished by the Megadeth tracks which will be released today on PlayStation Network and tomorrow on Xbox Live. Folks with the patience and superhuman dexterity required to do so can now learn to shred through "Hangar 18", "Public Enemy No. 1", and "Symphony of Destruction."

Each song will run users 240 Microsoft Points ($2.99), while thrifty musicians can buy all three in a 640 Microsoft Point ($7.99) bundle. That'll leave you with an extra buck to spend on replacing your destroyed picks (and fingertips).

Continue reading New Megadeth tracks arrive for Rocksmith

JoystiqNew Megadeth tracks arrive for Rocksmith originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Dec 2011 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcmegadethmicrosoftmusicplaystationps3rhythmubisoftxboxWed, 14 Dec 2011 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rocksmith: Schooled by rock]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/30/rocksmith-schooled-by-rock/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/30/rocksmith-schooled-by-rock/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/30/rocksmith-schooled-by-rock/#comments If I had Rocksmith when I was a kid, I would be a lot better off now.

In 1995, I begged my parents to buy me a guitar. As you can imagine, I was swept up in the grunge fever that permeated a lot of the '90s. My idol, Kurt Cobain, died a year before and being the 12-year-old I was, I had it all figured out: I was going to be a rock star.

My parents bought me a used Ibanez acoustic, with the promise of an electric guitar if I stayed at it. I did and, 16 years later, at an event for Ubisoft's Rocksmith, I discovered that my parents and I had wasted money on guitar instruction over the years.

Gallery: Rocksmith (E3 2011)

Continue reading Rocksmith: Schooled by rock

JoystiqRocksmith: Schooled by rock originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 Sep 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epiphoneguitarmicrosoftmusicpcplaystationps3rhythmrocksmithubisoftxboxFri, 30 Sep 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Former DJ Hero devs aim to rock the mobile space with 8linQ]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/15/former-dj-hero-devs-aim-to-rock-the-mobile-space-with-8linq/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/15/former-dj-hero-devs-aim-to-rock-the-mobile-space-with-8linq/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/15/former-dj-hero-devs-aim-to-rock-the-mobile-space-with-8linq/#comments Is "8linQ" a new form of L337ese spelling out "blink?" Inquiring minds want to know!

Joking aside, 8linQ is actually a new mobile studio, a joint venture between three groups: Music in Colour, Reactify and Metropolis Group. The former, Music in Colour, is a music production company comprised of ex-Freestyle Games developers, who you may know from those DJ Hero games. 8linQ will aim on bringing music and rhythm games to the mobile space starting on July 20 with Say What?! for iOS, The Guardian reports. No, we will not repeat ourselves, we're not falling for it, guys!

Say What?! is a tap-based rhythm game with licensed tracks from Sony, where players have to look for and identify icons associated with lyrics in the particular song they're playing. For example, when they see the word "I" in a lyric and an icon of an actual eye comes flying by, they'll tap that for points. As the player progresses in difficulty, the clues and correct icons become much more vague.

Say What?! will be a free download when it launches next week, bundled with four licensed tracks -- eventually, other tracks will be added as micro-transaction downloads.

[Image credit: The Guardian]

JoystiqFormer DJ Hero devs aim to rock the mobile space with 8linQ originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Jul 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>8linqdj-herofreestyle-gamesiosipadiphonemobilemusicmusic-in-colourrhythmsay-whatsonyFri, 15 Jul 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Theatrhythm Final Fantasy coming from Electroplankton devs, features characters from I - XIII]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/11/final-fantasy-theatrhythm-coming-from-electroplankton-devs-feat/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/11/final-fantasy-theatrhythm-coming-from-electroplankton-devs-feat/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/11/final-fantasy-theatrhythm-coming-from-electroplankton-devs-feat/#comments The plot description for Square Enix's upcoming 3DS rhythm game, Theatrhythm Final Fantasy, goes beyond the regular "suspension of disbelief" requirements. According to the game's official site (as translated by Andriasang), "the space between the gods Chaos and Cosmos is known as 'rhythm,'" and as "the forces of chaos have disrupted the peace" the music-controlling crystal birthed by the aforementioned space ("Rhythm") is losing its luster. If that weren't enough, it seems that in order to return that shine "the music wave 'Ripzo' must be increased." Okay Square, you win! We give up!

In a related but significantly less confusing bit of news, the game is apparently being developed by indieszero, best known for its work on Electroplankton and Retro Game Challenge. Gameplay still hasn't been defined in the strictest sense, but it seems that players will be able to choose characters from Final Fantasy I through XIII in stages based on the baker's dozen of primary FF titles released over the past quarter century.

Each stage is said to be divided into three distinct pieces ("field," "event," and "battle") with three unique gameplay systems, though those systems have yet to be explained. Long time FF fans will be happy to hear that the four-person party system of past titles will return in Theatrhythm, and "major songs" from the series' history will accompany the gameplay. "The Sunleth Waterscape" from FFXIII and "One Winged Angel" from FFVII are specifically named, among several others.

Beyond that, well, there's a chibi Behemoth (seen above). We've dubbed him "Purpular," mostly because he's adorable, but also, ya know, he's purple.

JoystiqTheatrhythm Final Fantasy coming from Electroplankton devs, features characters from I - XIII originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Jul 2011 09:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsindieszeroindieszero-corporationmusicnintendorhythmrhythm-gamesquare-enixtheatrhythm-final-fantasyMon, 11 Jul 2011 09:55:00 EST<![CDATA[New Rocksmith songs announced, Titus Andronicus, Best Coast and Pixies make the cut]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/02/new-rocksmith-songs-announced-titus-andronicus-best-coast-and/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/02/new-rocksmith-songs-announced-titus-andronicus-best-coast-and/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/02/new-rocksmith-songs-announced-titus-andronicus-best-coast-and/#comments For serious, you guys: Ubisoft's real-guitar rhythm game Rocksmith is shaping up to have one of the best soundtracks ever featured in a rhythm game. The company announced a whole mess of new play-it-yourself tunes today, showcasing the game's creators' indie rock credibility: Best Coast's "When I'm With You," Silversun Pickups' "Panic Switch," and Titus Andronicus' "A More Perfect Union" are just a handful of the college radio-friendly tracks included therein.

Check out the full list of songs after the jump. Don't worry, grandpa, there's still some Cream and Rolling Stones in the mix which may better suit your old, old ears. Maybe if you ask really nicely, you might be able to get some Jelly Roll Morton and Irving Berlin into the final release, you super old grandpa, you.

Continue reading New Rocksmith songs announced, Titus Andronicus, Best Coast and Pixies make the cut

JoystiqNew Rocksmith songs announced, Titus Andronicus, Best Coast and Pixies make the cut originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Jun 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftmusicplaystationps3rhythmrocksmithubisoftxboxThu, 02 Jun 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ten new, totally gnarly tracks released for GH: Warriors of Rock]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/08/guitar-hero-warriors-of-rock-february-mega-pack/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/08/guitar-hero-warriors-of-rock-february-mega-pack/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/08/guitar-hero-warriors-of-rock-february-mega-pack/#comments Activision and Beenox have really outdone themselves with the 10-song February Mega Pack DLC for Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock, available today on 360, PS3 and Wii. Acknowledging that this is the year's most tender, loving month, the two have eschewed the game's core musical genres, adding selections from gentle songsmiths like Nick Drake, Iron and Wine, Damien Rice, and -- oh? No, they're not doing that? The ten songs are from rock outfits Marilyn Manson, Children of Bodom and Black Label Society? Well then.

Check out the full list after the jump to see what decidedly un-tender tracks you can grab for 1440 Microsoft Points ($17.99 or 1800 Wii Points) in the February Mega Pack.

Continue reading Ten new, totally gnarly tracks released for GH: Warriors of Rock

JoystiqTen new, totally gnarly tracks released for GH: Warriors of Rock originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 Feb 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>black-label-societychildren-of-bodomdlcguitar-hero-monthlyguitar-hero-warriors-of-rockmarilyn-mansonmicrosoftmusicneversoftnintendoplaystationps3rhythmwiixboxTue, 08 Feb 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rock Band Weekly: Linkin Park six track pack]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/07/rock-band-weekly-linkin-park-six-track-pack/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/07/rock-band-weekly-linkin-park-six-track-pack/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/07/rock-band-weekly-linkin-park-six-track-pack/#comments The first track pack from nu-metal group Linkin Park, featuring six songs from across the band's discography, will come to Rock Band 3 on January 11 for $10. All the pertinent details for next week's DLC release can be found just below the break. You'll note the selections differ from the newer ones available in Guitar Hero, so if you want to play as many Linkin Park songs as possible, you'll need to indulge both video game rhythm rivals.

Continue reading Rock Band Weekly: Linkin Park six track pack

JoystiqRock Band Weekly: Linkin Park six track pack originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 07 Jan 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcdownloadable-contentharmonixharmonix-music-systemslinkin-parkmicrosoftmusicnintendoplaystationps3rhythmRock-Band-3rock-band-weeklywiixboxFri, 07 Jan 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon doles out discounts on music games today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/16/amazon-doles-out-discounts-on-music-games-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/16/amazon-doles-out-discounts-on-music-games-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/16/amazon-doles-out-discounts-on-music-games-today/#comments Amazon's on day 17 of its festival of discounts, ringing in the ultimate day with savings on music games across the board. We'll get right to what you need to know: Kidz Bop Dance Party The Video Game for Nintendo Wii is going for just $24.99! Okay, okay, yes, Rock Band 3 is also on sale for just $39.95 -- not to mention The Beatles: Rock Band going for a paltry $14.

The sale runs until the end of business today, so get on that soon if you're looking to snag a heavily discounted copy of "the greatest rhythm game ever made." (Nice hyperbole, reviewers! Pfft.)

JoystiqAmazon doles out discounts on music games today originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Dec 2010 09:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>discountdseaharmonixmicrosoftmusicnintendoplaystationps3psprhythmrock-band-3sonywiixboxThu, 16 Dec 2010 09:48:00 EST<![CDATA[Kinect Hacks: Keyboard Anywhere slaps a keyboard almost anywhere]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/14/kinect-hacks-keyboard-anywhere-slaps-a-keyboard-almost-anywhere/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/14/kinect-hacks-keyboard-anywhere-slaps-a-keyboard-almost-anywhere/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/14/kinect-hacks-keyboard-anywhere-slaps-a-keyboard-almost-anywhere/#comments Finally, a chance to re-enact our favorite scene from Big -- and also watch two guys recreate it! The latest Kinect Hack is simply called Keyboard Anywhere, an apt title because that's pretty much what it does. You can size the keyboard based on your space -- the video past the break shows it being applied to several different surfaces, including a desk and the floor. Hit the jump to see it in action.

Continue reading Kinect Hacks: Keyboard Anywhere slaps a keyboard almost anywhere

JoystiqKinect Hacks: Keyboard Anywhere slaps a keyboard almost anywhere originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Dec 2010 00:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>keyboard-anywherekinectkinect-hacksmicrosoftmicrosoft-kinectmusicopenkinectrhythmxboxTue, 14 Dec 2010 00:30:00 EST<![CDATA[SingStar's European tracks come stateside, all releases worldwide from now on]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/13/singstars-european-tracks-come-stateside-all-releases-worldwid/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/13/singstars-european-tracks-come-stateside-all-releases-worldwid/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/13/singstars-european-tracks-come-stateside-all-releases-worldwid/#comments SingStar fans living in the U.S. haven't exactly received equal amounts of attention as SingStar fans living in Europe. (Luckily we've got all this freedom and liberty to make up for it, right guys? Woo!) Tons of downloadable songs that arrived on the European PSN have yet to come stateside -- but thanks to a recent deal struck up between Sony and Universal Music, the two regions' musical selections will begin moving towards parity with a series of major content updates, the first of which is due out this Wednesday, December 15.

This first update will add 64 songs to the U.S. SingStore, as well as 11 new tracks for SingStar Dance, all of which are listed after the jump. Also, all future DLC releases for the series will arrive at the same time in the U.S. and Europe. Finally, we can put this bitter jealousy to rest.

Continue reading SingStar's European tracks come stateside, all releases worldwide from now on

JoystiqSingStar's European tracks come stateside, all releases worldwide from now on originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 Dec 2010 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlclondon-studiomusicplaystationps3rhythmSingStarSony-Computer-EntertainmentMon, 13 Dec 2010 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Music game sales continue plunge down the charts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/19/music-game-sales-continue-plunge-down-the-charts/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/19/music-game-sales-continue-plunge-down-the-charts/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/19/music-game-sales-continue-plunge-down-the-charts/#comments If this sounds like a familiar tune, it is: Music game sales have plummeted for a second-straight year. But this year, the tune is way more off key.

According to analysis by Gamasutra, which looked at the period from January through October in each of the past three years, music game revenues in the U.S. have taken a phenomenal nose dive from an epic height of $1.6 billion in 2008 to where they've landed today: under $250 million for the year. "Short of a Christmas miracle," concludes analyst Matt Matthews, "music games won't break $400 million for all of 2010."

Ohhh ... so that's why Viacom's hawking Harmonix.

JoystiqMusic game sales continue plunge down the charts originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Nov 2010 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisiondj-hero-2eagreen-day-rock-bandguitar-heroguitar-hero-warriors-of-rockharmonixmicrosoftmtv-gamesmusicmusic-gamesnintendoplaystationpower-gig-rise-of-the-sixstringps3rhythmrock-bandrock-band-3salesseven45softwareviacomwiixboxFri, 19 Nov 2010 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[We just can't get no relief from the Karaoke Revolution Glee launch trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/09/we-just-cant-get-no-relief-from-the-karaoke-revolution-glee-lau/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/09/we-just-cant-get-no-relief-from-the-karaoke-revolution-glee-lau/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/09/we-just-cant-get-no-relief-from-the-karaoke-revolution-glee-lau/#comments We've caught a few glimpses of the ... unique HUD for Karaoke Revolution Glee in the past, but you really haven't seen anything until you've seen the game in motion. Check out the (partially) live-action gameplay trailer below -- or we guess you could just go buy the game, since it launches today.

Continue reading We just can't get no relief from the Karaoke Revolution Glee launch trailer

JoystiqWe just can't get no relief from the Karaoke Revolution Glee launch trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Nov 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gleekaraoke-revolution-gleekonamimusicnintendorhythmwiiTue, 09 Nov 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Unofficial Rock Band catalog search app arrives on iPhone]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/26/unofficial-rock-band-catalog-search-app-arrives-on-iphone/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/26/unofficial-rock-band-catalog-search-app-arrives-on-iphone/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/26/unofficial-rock-band-catalog-search-app-arrives-on-iphone/#comments Here's a hypothetical situation you or someone you know has probably experienced at some point in your life: You and a friend are out at a restaurant or bar, and Wham's "Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go" comes on the radio. You remark how this is one of your favorite Rock Band songs, but your friend replies that this song, criminally, is not part of the Rock Band catalog. You argue about this point all night, ruining your dinner, drinks and, ultimately, friendship.

There's another way -- a better way, friends. A new, unofficial and free iPhone tool from developer Three Brothers Apps titled "RB Song List" lets you scan through the game's downloadable catalog on the go. Using this app, you could have resolved this hypothetical argument in seconds, and then spent the rest of the night talking about why the hell "Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go" isn't available on the Rock Band Store.

JoystiqUnofficial Rock Band catalog search app arrives on iPhone originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Oct 2010 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appharmonixiphonejitterbugmobilemtv-gamesmusicrb-song-listrhythmRock-Band-3Tue, 26 Oct 2010 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The complete Dance Central track list drops it like it's hot]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/13/the-complete-dance-central-track-list-drops-it-like-its-hot/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/13/the-complete-dance-central-track-list-drops-it-like-its-hot/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/13/the-complete-dance-central-track-list-drops-it-like-its-hot/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We write up rhythm games' soundtracks pretty frequently, but it's rare for one of these lists to possess the kind of hypnotic power to send us into dancing fits by simply reading the songs therein. That's what's happened to us after reading the complete Dance Central tracklist posted after the jump, which, as you can imagine, is making it awfully hard to type right now. We can usually get in a few words before our very spirit compels us to do more popping and locking.

Seriously, you have to check out the list of songs posted after the jump -- but only if you're in a dancing-appropriate location, like your home, or a ballet class, or an old, abandoned factory. If you're not too busy moving uncontrollably to that funky beat, we suggest watching the Poisonous trailer posted even further down.

Continue reading The complete Dance Central track list drops it like it's hot

JoystiqThe complete Dance Central track list drops it like it's hot originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 Oct 2010 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dance-centralharmonixkinectmicrosoftmusicrhythmsoundtrackxboxWed, 13 Oct 2010 18:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Rock Band 3 DS's full track list revealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/25/rock-band-3-dss-full-track-list-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/25/rock-band-3-dss-full-track-list-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/25/rock-band-3-dss-full-track-list-revealed/#commentsFiled under: , ,

In the console versions of Rock Band 3, you'll have 83 different tracks with which to rock out. In the DS game, not so much -- more like 25, actually. Relax: where the handheld game lacks quantity, it makes up for with quality. These 25 tracks culled from the console release represent great artists, like Faith No More, INXS, Queen and Night Ranger, among others. We know how much you love your Night Ranger.

Check out the full DS game track list past the break.

Continue reading Rock Band 3 DS's full track list revealed

JoystiqRock Band 3 DS's full track list revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Aug 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsharmonixmusicnintendorhythmRock-Band-3rock-band-3-track-listtrack-listWed, 25 Aug 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Full Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock track list revealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/17/full-guitar-hero-warriors-of-rock-track-list-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/17/full-guitar-hero-warriors-of-rock-track-list-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/17/full-guitar-hero-warriors-of-rock-track-list-revealed/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We've got to hand it to the recently revealed Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock setlist -- there are more than a few tasty tracks in the series' next installment. Still, as excited as we are to faux-pluck our way through Styx's "Renegade," we can't help but question a few of the songs therein. Not that they're bad songs, per se, but ... well, we can't really envision R.E.M. frontman Michael Stipe as a "Warrior of Rock," you know? We imagine him wearing spiked pauldrons, and it just doesn't do anything for us.

Check out the full 93-song setlist just past the jump.

Continue reading Full Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock track list revealed

JoystiqFull Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock track list revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Aug 2010 20:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionguitar-hero-warriors-of-rockmicrosoftmusicneversoftnintendoplaystationps3rhythmwiixboxTue, 17 Aug 2010 20:20:00 EST<![CDATA[InstantAction announces Instant Jam, a browser-based music game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/16/instantaction-announces-instant-jam-a-browser-based-music-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/16/instantaction-announces-instant-jam-a-browser-based-music-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/16/instantaction-announces-instant-jam-a-browser-based-music-game/#commentsFiled under: , ,

You're no longer limited to the old strawberries-plus-mallet approach for Instant Jam. Now there's a video game! InstantAction, the company behind the impressive embeddable game service, has announced Instant Jam, an original embeddable Rock Band-style music game for PC, developed by InstantAction's studio in Las Vegas.

Instant Jam uses the music in your own music library, matching it to note charts for "the world's most popular songs." It supports the keyboard or USB guitar controllers, and allows in-game music purchases through Amazon or iTunes -- its version of DLC, which also happens to enhance your regular music library.

A beta is currently available through Facebook. Versions playable through the website and embeddable elsewhere will be rolled out soon, and the team promises additional features regularly.

Gallery: Instant Jam (PC)

JoystiqInstantAction announces Instant Jam, a browser-based music game originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 16 Aug 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Browser-gameInstant-JamInstantActionMusicpcRhythmMon, 16 Aug 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DJ Max Portable 3 gameplay mixes hot beats with quick cuts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/08/dj-max-portable-3-gameplay-mixes-hot-beats-with-quick-cuts/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/08/dj-max-portable-3-gameplay-mixes-hot-beats-with-quick-cuts/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/08/dj-max-portable-3-gameplay-mixes-hot-beats-with-quick-cuts/#commentsFiled under: , ,

DJ Max Portable fans eagerly awaiting a first look at the third game in action will be happy to see the intensely edited clip that we've dropped after the break. Look for the game on PSP sometime later this year.

Continue reading DJ Max Portable 3 gameplay mixes hot beats with quick cuts

JoystiqDJ Max Portable 3 gameplay mixes hot beats with quick cuts originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 08 Aug 2010 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dj-max-portabledj-max-portable-3musicpentavisionplaystationpsprhythmsonytrailerSun, 08 Aug 2010 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock takes the stage September 28]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/06/guitar-hero-warriors-of-rock-takes-the-stage-september-28/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/06/guitar-hero-warriors-of-rock-takes-the-stage-september-28/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/06/guitar-hero-warriors-of-rock-takes-the-stage-september-28/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Anxious to get your hands on Activision's werething-infused rock-em-up, Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock? Activision revealed a launch date for the game during its annual investors call last night: September 28 (September 24 in the UK). For those of you keeping score at home, that's a full month before the arrival of its competitor, Rock Band 3, which is set to launch on October 26.

Outside of being compatible with "your existing Guitar Hero music library," Warriors of Rock adds 95 new tracks into the mix, including re-recordings from Alice Cooper and The Runaways. Additionally, if you're one of the first million to purchase the game in North America, you get a free Soundgarden album.

JoystiqGuitar Hero: Warriors of Rock takes the stage September 28 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Aug 2010 11:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionguitar-hero-warriors-of-rockmicrosoftmusicnintendoplaystationps3q3q3-2010release-daterhythmwiixboxFri, 06 Aug 2010 11:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Dance Dance Revolution stepping to PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/03/dance-dance-revolution-stepping-to-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/03/dance-dance-revolution-stepping-to-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/03/dance-dance-revolution-stepping-to-ps3/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Konami recently elected to make an announcement about one of its oldest franchises in a fairly unconventional way -- by adding the teaser image seen above to its Facebook fan page. As you've probably sussed out, the publisher announced alongside the image, "we're bringing DDR to the PS3." We're wondering how long they've been holding onto this announcement, considering the relative age of the box art and straight chubby PS3 seen in the teaser.

Almost no details surfaced about which iteration of the series would hit the console, or when we can expect it -- however, the announcement does mention the title will have a "launch party" on August 12. We're not sure if it means "launch party" in the traditional sense, or if they're only planning on "launching" the game's heretofore absent details. We've contacted Konami to figure out which kind of party we're dealing with, and whether or not we should bring snacks.

JoystiqDance Dance Revolution stepping to PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Aug 2010 12:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dance-dance-revolutionddrkonamimusicplaystationps3rhythmTue, 03 Aug 2010 12:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Preview: DJ Hero 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/28/dj-hero-2-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/28/dj-hero-2-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/28/dj-hero-2-preview/#comments In a small hotel room in midtown Manhattan this month, I spent just over an hour with Activision's noticeably slimmed down holiday rhythm/music game lineup. Though we'll have to hold our impressions of Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock until later this month, I can tell you all about my time spent with DJ Hero 2.

First and foremost -- and this might sound nuts to open with -- the design and layout of the user interface is beautifully vacant. The DJ selection screen isn't much more than a bright white background with selectable characters. That same design aesthetic carries over into the gameplay interface -- unlike the muddied rock and roll world of Guitar Hero, everything in DJ Hero 2 is sharp, crisp, and clean. The lighting may be low, but blues and reds and yellows can be seen popping all over the place.

Gallery: DJ Hero 2 (7/20/10)

Continue reading Preview: DJ Hero 2

JoystiqPreview: DJ Hero 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Jul 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionDJ-Hero-2freestyle-gamesmicrosoftmusicnintendoplaystationps3rhythmwiixboxWed, 28 Jul 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Bang your head to the Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock 'Act 1' set list]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/08/bang-your-head-to-the-guitar-hero-warriors-of-rock-act-1-set/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/08/bang-your-head-to-the-guitar-hero-warriors-of-rock-act-1-set/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/08/bang-your-head-to-the-guitar-hero-warriors-of-rock-act-1-set/#comments We get it. In this fast-paced world of ... stuff, you don't have time to scroll over a list of tracks in the upcoming Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock. Where text would've gotten the job done in the past, we recognize that nowadays you need something to match your speedy lifestyle. Therefore, we present the video past the break.

It highlights the set list for the first act of the game, featuring standout tracks like Dire Straits' "Money for Nothing" and even a live rendition of Def Leppard's "Pour Some Sugar on Me." If you're looking for something a bit on the classier side, you'll be relieved to know that Activision has also included Kiss' "Love Gun." Nothing says class like a song that's about -- well, you know.

Continue reading Bang your head to the Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock 'Act 1' set list

JoystiqBang your head to the Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock 'Act 1' set list originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Jul 2010 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionguitar-hero-warriors-of-rockmusicneversoftrhythmThu, 08 Jul 2010 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Activision's Amrich: DJ Hero sales now up to 1.2 million units]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/08/activisions-amrich-dj-hero-sales-now-up-to-1-2-million-units/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/08/activisions-amrich-dj-hero-sales-now-up-to-1-2-million-units/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/08/activisions-amrich-dj-hero-sales-now-up-to-1-2-million-units/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Activision's DJ Hero may not have had the strong start the company would have hoped for, but it's apparently gained significant momentum since its October launch. In an editorial piece defending the performance of Bizarre's recent racer, Blur, Activision social media guy Dan Amrich talked up DJ Hero's longterm success -- which has now yielded sales of 1.2 million units.

As you might recall, it was also the best-selling IP of 2009 by revenue. Amrich posited that DJ Hero needed "time for its audience to find it, a price break, and positive word from both friends and reviews to circulate" before it could really pick up steam. With DJ Hero 2 just around the corner, we're anxious to see how Activision will apply what it's learned from the first game.

JoystiqActivision's Amrich: DJ Hero sales now up to 1.2 million units originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Jul 2010 12:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionDan-AmrichDJ-Herofreestyle-gamesmusicrhythmThu, 08 Jul 2010 12:50:00 EST<![CDATA[ION making even fancier Rock Band drum set]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/02/ion-making-even-fancier-rock-band-drum-set/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/02/ion-making-even-fancier-rock-band-drum-set/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/02/ion-making-even-fancier-rock-band-drum-set/#commentsFiled under: , ,

ION has refreshed its "premium" (read: 'spensive) Drum Rocker peripheral for the upcoming Rock Band 3. The new Drum Rocker Pro includes four drums, three cymbals and the new "Pro Pedal," a kick drum pedal with "all-metal construction," plus a "dual-chain drive, adjustable beater and rubber trigger," all of which sound like they're probably very impressive.

The new kit will be available for PS3, Xbox 360 and Wii this holiday season, timed with the release of Rock Band 3. The fancy new pedal will also be sold separately, for anyone with a previous ION set or regular Rock Band drums who is humiliated about the state of their kick drum pedal. No price for either item was announced, but expect to pay a premium.

Continue reading ION making even fancier Rock Band drum set

JoystiqION making even fancier Rock Band drum set originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Jul 2010 03:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Drum-Rockerdrum-rocker-proharmonixIonIon-drum-rockermicrosoftmtv-gamesMusicnintendoplaystationpro-pedalps3rhythmRock-Band-3wiixboxFri, 02 Jul 2010 03:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Interview: Harmonix's Daniel Sussman on Rock Band 3's new tune]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/11/interview-harmonixs-daniel-sussman-on-rock-band-3s-new-tune/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/11/interview-harmonixs-daniel-sussman-on-rock-band-3s-new-tune/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/11/interview-harmonixs-daniel-sussman-on-rock-band-3s-new-tune/#commentsRock Band 3 is set to introduce a new instrument -- the keyboard -- to the performance simulation genre, and a new, more complex level of simulation in Pro Mode. At a pre-E3 event, we asked the project lead, Daniel Sussman of Harmonix, to provide us with comfort in these times of frightening music-game flux. Well, mostly we asked him to tell us things about the game. Read on to learn about the new Pro instruments and the new keyboard peripheral, and how those will interact with the Rock Band we know and love.

Joystiq: First off, what was the major focus for you guys when you were looking to make Rock Band 3? It seems really ambitious, and it seems like it's less about adding more songs -- that's sort of what Rock Band Network does -- and it seems more like expanding the platform out as far as you can take it.

Daniel Sussman, Rock Band 3 project lead: Kind of two main drives: one was to do a ground-up rebuild of the Rock Band platform, and rethink some of the ways that people get in and out of game sessions, and experience the music and the gameplay, and then the other big sort of movement was to innovate with gameplay and try to come up with some new experiences that build on the classic fundamentals of music games and also actual musicianship.

Gallery: Rock Band 3 (first screens)

Continue reading Interview: Harmonix's Daniel Sussman on Rock Band 3's new tune

JoystiqInterview: Harmonix's Daniel Sussman on Rock Band 3's new tune originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 Jun 2010 01:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Dan-SussmanElectronic-ArtsHarmonixmicrosoftMTV-GamesMusicnintendoplaystationps3RhythmRock-BandRock-Band-3wiixboxFri, 11 Jun 2010 01:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Method Man and Redman to blow up the mic at E3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/10/method-man-and-redman-to-blow-up-the-mic-at-e3/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/10/method-man-and-redman-to-blow-up-the-mic-at-e3/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/10/method-man-and-redman-to-blow-up-the-mic-at-e3/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Method Man and Redman are teaming up to make E3 feel 'dis, with the rap duo set to make an appearance at the show on behalf of Def Jam Rapstar. They'll be doing some of their hits live for conference goers at the Konami booth on Wednesday, June 16 at 4 p.m. PDT. Frankly, we can't imagine a better way to go through E3 than hearing "Cereal Killer" blast throughout the convention center.

Def Jam Rapstar busts a funky rhyme on October 5.

JoystiqMethod Man and Redman to blow up the mic at E3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Jun 2010 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4mm-GamesDef-JamDef-Jam-Rapstare3E3-2010KonamiMusicRhythmThu, 10 Jun 2010 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rock Band 3 keyboard revealed by USA Today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/10/rock-band-3-keyboard-revealed-by-usa-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/10/rock-band-3-keyboard-revealed-by-usa-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/10/rock-band-3-keyboard-revealed-by-usa-today/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Details have been pretty scant on Rock Band 3 so far, despite the best efforts of some. That all changes today as USA Today dishes on the game's 25-key piano peripheral, some of the new features and even a partial song list, which we've got after the jump (Smash Mouth, guys? Ballsy.) along with some on-video ivory tickling.

USA Today also fleshed out the "Pro" mode Ars Technica had the scoop on last month. As expected, the mode will endeavor to teach actual musical technique, either with the new keyboard, a three-cymbal upgrade for the drum kit or a hybrid controller/"full-sized, fully functional six-string Squier Stratocaster" made by Fender. Mad Catz is making a miniature Fender Mustang Pro controller for the mode too, but we're not going to miss the chance to play on instruments that don't make us look like sweaty giants.

Continue reading Rock Band 3 keyboard revealed by USA Today

JoystiqRock Band 3 keyboard revealed by USA Today originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Jun 2010 08:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic-artsharmonixmicrosoftmtvmusicnintendoplaystationps3rhythmrock-band-3wiixboxXbox-360Thu, 10 Jun 2010 08:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock instruments can be customized]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/07/guitar-hero-warriors-of-rock-instruments-can-be-customized/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/07/guitar-hero-warriors-of-rock-instruments-can-be-customized/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/07/guitar-hero-warriors-of-rock-instruments-can-be-customized/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We've heard it said that a musician's instrument is his weapon, especially when his concert erupts into violins. Perhaps that doesn't apply to music game peripherals, but the new Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock instruments certainly seem edgier than we've come to expect. GameAxis has shown off the new guitar design, which is confirmed by a report on Gizmodo. (How did Activision manage to lose a prototype peripheral?)

According to the report, the wireless guitar's electronics are contained within the neck, leaving the body wings free to be detached and replaced with alternate, possibly even sillier designs. The default guitar (seen above) is only the beginning, with an "axe" design (after the break) set to become available exclusively through pre-order at Gamestop. Wouldn't that be the perfect last-minute addition to your Fellowship of the Ring theme band?

Source -- GameAxis
Source -- Gizmodo

Continue reading Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock instruments can be customized

JoystiqGuitar Hero: Warriors of Rock instruments can be customized originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 07 Jun 2010 12:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActivisionGuitar-Hero-Warriors-of-RockmicrosoftMusicnintendoPeripheralsplaystationps3RhythmwiixboxXbox-360Mon, 07 Jun 2010 12:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Guitar Hero 5 and Band Hero: June DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/guitar-hero-5-and-band-hero-june-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/guitar-hero-5-and-band-hero-june-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/guitar-hero-5-and-band-hero-june-dlc/#comments
[flickr]
June's shaping up to be quite a packed month for Guitar Hero 5 and Band Hero DLC aficionados. On top of a free pack of national anthems for Xbox 360 and PS3 users -- you haven't lived until you've rocked out to Germany's national anthem, "Lied der Deutschen," by the way -- three separate band track packs will be available. These will feature Stone Temple Pilots, Alice Cooper and All Time Low.

Head past the break to check out the full list of DLC. We have a feeling that Spanish foreign exchange student staying with your family this summer is going to be pumped to play some "Marcha Real."

Continue reading Guitar Hero 5 and Band Hero: June DLC

JoystiqGuitar Hero 5 and Band Hero: June DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 May 2010 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionalice-cooperall-time-lowBand Heroband-heroBandHerodlcDSGuitar-Heroguitar-hero-5guitar-hero-monthlyMicrosoftmusicneversoftNintendoRed-Octanerhythmstone-temple-pilotsWiiXbox-360Wed, 26 May 2010 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Scratch: The Ultimate DJ remixed for iPhone, iPad, and PC [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/scratch-the-ultimate-dj-remixed-for-iphone-ipad-and-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/scratch-the-ultimate-dj-remixed-for-iphone-ipad-and-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/scratch-the-ultimate-dj-remixed-for-iphone-ipad-and-pc/#comments
Click: The Ultimate GalleryScratch: The Ultimate DJ was all set to compete against Activision's DJ Hero, but major legal issues delayed the game significantly. Now, the game has resurfaced -- in a form that doesn't use the high-end turntable controller. Numark (managing partner in Scratch DJ Game LLC) announced versions of the game for iPhone, iPad, and PC, due "later this year" -- which constitutes another delay, from the game's previous "spring" date.

The previously announced console versions of the game are not mentioned at all in the announcement, save for an oblique reference in the description of the Scratch Deck controller: "Additionally, Numark has developed a new full-function dual-turntable controller that enables players to manipulate both turntables simultaneously, which will be available for use with the game on a variety of platforms." While the PC may be one of those platforms, it's a safe bet that the controller isn't designed for use with the iPhone or iPad.

It's hard to tell from the announcement whether the console game has been scrapped in favor of this "remixed" release. We're contacting Numark to attempt to clear up the question of Scratch's console release plans.

Update: Numark told Joystiq that the console versions are still in development. In addition, the PC version will use a special controller.

JoystiqScratch: The Ultimate DJ remixed for iPhone, iPad, and PC [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 May 2010 11:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AppledjiPadiPodmusicnumarkrhythmscratchscratch-dj-llcscratch-the-ultimate-djWed, 26 May 2010 11:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Rock Band Weekly: Pantera's 'Great Southern Trendkill']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/21/rock-band-weekly-panteras-great-southern-trendkill/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/21/rock-band-weekly-panteras-great-southern-trendkill/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/21/rock-band-weekly-panteras-great-southern-trendkill/#comments If your unique vocal style mostly consists of blood-curdling screams and primal, scratchy howling, then your ship has finally come in. This week, heavy metal outfit Pantera's album "The Great Southern Trendkill" is added to the Rock Band catalog. You can pick up the whole kit n' caboodle for 1280 ($15.99), or grab each pack piecemeal-style, like you've been able to do since the dawn of time.

Click past the jump to see all the tracks included on the album.

Continue reading Rock Band Weekly: Pantera's 'Great Southern Trendkill'

JoystiqRock Band Weekly: Pantera's 'Great Southern Trendkill' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 May 2010 10:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcharmonixMicrosoftmusicNintendopanterarhythmrock-bandrock-band-2rock-band-weeklythe-great-southern-trendkillWiiXbox-360Fri, 21 May 2010 10:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Guitar Hero 6 dropping playable musicians, will work with previous DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/17/report-guitar-hero-6-dropping-playable-musicians-will-work-wit/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/17/report-guitar-hero-6-dropping-playable-musicians-will-work-wit/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/17/report-guitar-hero-6-dropping-playable-musicians-will-work-wit/#comments Details about the upcoming sixth iteration in the Guitar Hero series (that is, if you don't count various spin-offs) have begun landing on the web from Official Xbox Magazine UK, reports GoNintendo. As Kiss' Gene Simmons proclaimed earlier this year, it seems he'll be emceeing the game. Alongside his appearance, Queen, Black Sabbath and Metallica's Lars Ulrich will also be showing up, though rather than being featured as playable characters, the various rockers will be recruitable characters for guidance through the game's campaign ("Quest Mode") -- that whole multiple lawsuit thing certainly couldn't have hurt Activision's decision, right?

Maybe most important of all is the inclusion of legendary New York City club CBGB (& OMFUG) as the game's "only real-world location" (at least to this former CBGB attendee), but we suppose you're probably more interested in hearing that "previous DLC" will allegedly be playable in number six ... or whatever. Activision wouldn't confirm the details with us, but you OXM UK subscribers are welcome to re-confirm the report's legitimacy in our comments section below.

[Via MTV Multiplayer]

JoystiqReport: Guitar Hero 6 dropping playable musicians, will work with previous DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 May 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionblack-sabbathcbgbgene-simmonsguitar-heroguitar-hero-6kisslars-ulrichmetallicaMicrosoftmusicNintendoofficial-xbox-magazine-ukqueenrhythmWiiXbox-360Mon, 17 May 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Green Day: Rock Band more familiar to 'core audience' than The Beatles, MTV Games says]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/14/green-day-more-familiar-to-core-audience-than-beatles/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/14/green-day-more-familiar-to-core-audience-than-beatles/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/14/green-day-more-familiar-to-core-audience-than-beatles/#commentsThe Beatles are a tough act to follow. And so, several weeks from the release of Green Day: Rock Band, publisher MTV Games has some promoting to do. MTV Games GM Scott Gutherie recently explained the reasoning behind picking the younger, less "classic rock"-oriented band for its next single-act music game following The Beatles: Rock Band.

"We were pleased with the performance of Beatles: Rock Band, but we were expecting higher sales," Guthrie said. "Our core audience of 16- to 34-year-old males are much more familiar with Green Day music than The Beatles." Targeting the core gaming audience with a band active during their lifetimes certainly seems like a sensible business move, though it does signal a move away from the kind of market expansion MTV and Harmonix were attempting with Beatles. However, Guthrie's suggestion that "Green Day probably has a much higher awareness than perhaps The Beatles did" seems like a stretch. Everyone knows The Beatles.

The clear market advantage that the Green Day game does have is the benefit of being compatible with Rock Band's existing and ever-growing library, as its tracks are exportable (for a fee) to Xbox 360 and PS3 hard drives and playable in the main iterations of the series. Though Guthrie didn't say as much, it's possible Beatles sales suffered because the game was a standalone project, which didn't mesh well with the Rock Band ethos and its core demographic.

Gallery: Green Day: Rock Band

JoystiqGreen Day: Rock Band more familiar to 'core audience' than The Beatles, MTV Games says originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 May 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaElectronic-Artsgreen-daygreen-day-rock-bandharmonixMicrosoftmtv-gamesmusicNintendorhythmrock-bandscott-guthrieThe-Beatles-Rock-BandWiiXbox-360Fri, 14 May 2010 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sick of Just Dance? Try KIDZ BOP Dance Party! The Video Game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/13/sick-of-just-dance-try-kidz-bop-dance-party-the-video-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/13/sick-of-just-dance-try-kidz-bop-dance-party-the-video-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/13/sick-of-just-dance-try-kidz-bop-dance-party-the-video-game/#commentsWe get it. Sometimes you just need to put something on the TV to get a break from the kids. Now that they've danced to all the MC Hammer a human being could ever dance to in Just Dance, you've got to resort to stronger, more potent forms of distraction. That's why we're here to tell you about KIDZ BOP Dance Party! The Video Game.

A joint operation between D3Publisher and those weird cover albums you see advertised on Nickelodeon, the new Wii game will launch on September 21 and will feature "24 contemporary hits" -- including pint-sized renditions of Lady Gaga's "Paparazzi," Michael Jackson's "Thriller" and Pink's "Get the Party Started." Really? Kids know who Pink is?

The game will also have five different modes of play: Free Play; Challenge; Dance Off; Shop; and Dress-Up. Challenge mode will allow two players to dance cooperatively, while Dance Off will feature a head-to-head mode. The remainder of the game will be single player only but don't fret: if there's one thing kids are great at doing, it's sharing their toys.

JoystiqSick of Just Dance? Try KIDZ BOP Dance Party! The Video Game originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 May 2010 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casuald3d3publisherdancekidz-bopkidz-bop-dance-partymusicNintendorhythmWiiThu, 13 May 2010 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guitar Hero 5 'Guitar Kit' and game on sale at Amazon today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/26/guitar-hero-5-guitar-kit-and-game-on-sale-at-amazon-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/26/guitar-hero-5-guitar-kit-and-game-on-sale-at-amazon-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/26/guitar-hero-5-guitar-kit-and-game-on-sale-at-amazon-today/#comments Whether you're in the market for a new music-rhythm game or want to get into this whole Guitar Hero thing on the late-late, Amazon has a pretty sweet deal going on today. In the "Guitar Kit" bundle, you can snag a guitar controller and a copy of Guitar Hero 5 for $38, while a new copy of the game itself will only set you back $20.

Becoming a faux-rocker has never been so cheap and just think about all of the DLC you'll be able to enjoy with that extra cash. Just saying!

[Via Cheap College Gamers]

JoystiqGuitar Hero 5 'Guitar Kit' and game on sale at Amazon today originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Apr 2010 18:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionamazondealdealsGuitar-Heroguitar-hero-5musicneversoftrhythmsaleMon, 26 Apr 2010 18:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Jam with the Band includes Wii Speaker Channel compatibility]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/13/jam-with-the-band-includes-wii-speaker-channel-compatibility/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/13/jam-with-the-band-includes-wii-speaker-channel-compatibility/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/13/jam-with-the-band-includes-wii-speaker-channel-compatibility/#commentsNintendo of Europe sent a press release out, offering the first details and track listing for the European release of Jam with the Band, confirming that this release is based on the sequel, Daigasso! Band Brothers DX. The DS music title supports Band Brothers DX's downloadable WiiWare channel, which allows music made in the game to be played through the Wii, and thus through your TV's sound system. This way, bands of up to eight DSes can play together and hear the combined result.

The cartridge will include 50 songs, including "The Final Countdown," "We Are the Champions," and a fairly random assortment of popular music from the last few decades, as well as medleys of Nintendo music. You can find the tracks announced so far after the break. Nintendo will release around 50 additional songs, and user-created performances, as free DLC.

[Via Videogamer]

Continue reading Jam with the Band includes Wii Speaker Channel compatibility

JoystiqJam with the Band includes Wii Speaker Channel compatibility originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Apr 2010 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>band-brothers-dxeuropejam-with-the-bandmusicrhythmspeaker-channelTue, 13 Apr 2010 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[DJ Hero price scratched down to $50 at Toys 'R Us]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/11/dj-hero-price-scratched-down-to-50-at-toys-r-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/11/dj-hero-price-scratched-down-to-50-at-toys-r-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/11/dj-hero-price-scratched-down-to-50-at-toys-r-us/#comments If you skipped out on last year's crossfading, record-scratching simulator DJ Hero due to its once-outlandish price, you're running out of excuses to not pick it up. Toys 'R Us recently knocked the price of the 360, Wii and PS3 (but puzzlingly, not the PS2) versions of the game down to a scant $49.99 -- a significant decrease from its launch price of $120.

Still wondering whether the game's worth your hard-earned Grantpaper? That's a decision you have to make on your own -- though, wait! Dizzee Rascal is here to help! Oh, and so's Chuck Brown! And look, it's Daft Punk! How nice of them to aid you with your soul-searching.

JoystiqDJ Hero price scratched down to $50 at Toys 'R Us originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 11 Apr 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisiondj-herofreestylegamesMicrosoftmusicNintendoprice-cutrhythmsaletoys-r-usWiiXbox-360Sun, 11 Apr 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[More 'Splosion Man songs coming to Rock Band Network]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/04/more-splosion-man-songs-coming-to-rock-band-network/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/04/more-splosion-man-songs-coming-to-rock-band-network/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/04/more-splosion-man-songs-coming-to-rock-band-network/#comments We wish we possessed the kind of thought processes required to make the mental association between the release of the Rock Band Network and the catchy, quirky ditties from 'Splosion Man. The game's theme is already up on the RBN Store, but that's not the extent of the musical 'Splodiness -- in an interview with SavyGamer, Twisted Pixel CEO Mike Wilford revealed two other tracks from the game would soon hit the Network: "The 'Splode Beneath My 'Splosion" and "Donuts Song."

No time frame has been given for the songs' release, but that hasn't stopped our excitement for the vocal part of "T'SBM'S" from growing to catastrophic, earth-quaking levels.

JoystiqMore 'Splosion Man songs coming to Rock Band Network originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 04 Apr 2010 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>donut-songMicrosoftmusicrhythmrock-bandrock-band-2rock-band-networksplosion-mantwisted-pixelxblaXbox-360Sun, 04 Apr 2010 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Green Day: Rock Band features all of 'American Idiot']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/03/green-day-rock-band-features-all-of-american-idiot/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/03/green-day-rock-band-features-all-of-american-idiot/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/03/green-day-rock-band-features-all-of-american-idiot/#comments In a recent interview with G4TV, Harmonix's Chris Foster revealed that Green Day's dumbest album will be featured in its entirety in the band's upcoming dedicated rhythm game. Yes, Green Day: Rock Band will feature all 13 tracks from the rock outfit's 2004 album "American Idiot," which features the song "American Idiot," which starts, "Don't wanna be an American Idiot."

We know there are plenty of youngsters who prefer "American Idiot," but we'd much rather hear that all of "Dookie" or "Insomniac" would be included in the game. Or all of "Vox Humana." Which -- nope, wait. Yeah, that's Kenny Loggins. We mixed up Green Day and Kenny Loggins again.

JoystiqGreen Day: Rock Band features all of 'American Idiot' originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 03 Apr 2010 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>american-idiotgreen-daygreen-day-rock-bandharmonixMicrosoftmusicNintendorhythmrock-bandWiiXbox-360Sat, 03 Apr 2010 20:30:00 EST