Joystiq

Stiq Figures, May 14 - 20: He's heating up edition

Mike Suszek — Sun, 27 May 2012 23:30:00 EST

Welcome to Stiq Figures, where the sales data is after the break and the posts don't matter. Every week, we take a look at, uh, something - meanwhile, the previous week's Japanese hardware sales figures are posted after the jump, and a discussion of said figures takes place in our comments. It may not be conventional, but it's a time-honored Joystiq tradition.

There aren't many sports games like NBA Jam. Back when Michael Jordan was the king of the court, the 1993 Midway arcade classic was known for its tight controls, secret characters, zany dunks, and outrageous catch-phrases by announcer Tim Kitzrow. While Jordan wasn't in the game (he reached his own licensing agreement with the NBA in 1992, and Midway was unable to secure a deal with him), it was Scottie Pippen that brought his excellent three-point shots to the court alongside Chicago Bulls teammate Horace Grant.

That is, Pippen's usually excellent three-point ability. NBA Jam creator Mark Turmell admitted in a 2008 interview with ESPN: The Gamer that Pippen's tendency to win close games was tuned down in certain circumstances. Specifically, when any Bulls player attempts a glorious last-second shot against Turmell's favorite team, the Detroit Pistons, a special piece of code in the game would average the shots out to be bricks.

Turmell said, "There was the big competition back in the day between the Pistons and the Bulls, and since I was always a big Pistons fan, that was my opportunity to level the playing field." This is one case where any close loss against a friend can be reasonably blamed on the game.

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Stiq Figures, May 14 - 20: He's heating up edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 27 May 2012 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Report: NBA Jam creator Mark Turmell leaves EA to join Zynga

Alexander Sliwinski — Thu, 14 Jul 2011 15:30:00 EST

Mark Turmell, EA Tiburon's senior creative director and the creator of NBA Jam, has allegedly left Electronic Arts for Zynga. Kotaku confirmed with EA that Turmell left the publisher, with a company spokesperson saying, "We appreciate Mark's contribution to Tiburon and EA Sports and wish him well in future endeavors."

Turmell's departure adds some questions to the rumored return of NFL Blitz, allegedly being developed at EA Tiburon. Turmell co-created the original NFL Blitz while at Midway.

If Turmell does end up at Zynga, he adds his name to a list that includes former EA COO John Schappert, developer Brian Reynolds and many, many other individuals and studios.

Report: NBA Jam creator Mark Turmell leaves EA to join Zynga originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Jul 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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NBA Jam: On Fire Edition will be $15, sport a touch of razzle-dazzle

David Hinkle — Thu, 14 Jul 2011 14:30:00 EST

NBA Jam was meant to be bundled as a freebie before EA canned NBA Elite 11. It ended up on disc as a standalone product on Wii and, later, Xbox 360, PS3 and eventually iOS. Now, EA is launching NBA Jam yet again, this time on Xbox Live and PSN.

NBA Jam: On Fire Edition is slated for PSN and Xbox Live Arcade this fall and aims to offer the most comprehensive version of the game yet, as a $15 download. It's got a new taunting system, online features and the ability to switch between ballers when playing solo.

There are two different core taunts: a mocking gesture (called a razzle-dazzle in the game) that's meant to harass your opponent; and a self-explanatory poke. The poke isn't as strong as the shove, but it's pretty hilarious to see in action -- the cartoon sound bite helps to sell it.

Other new additions include a team fire capability, where three successful alley-oops will set your entire team on fire. You can now switch between players on demand, and the game claims to have an overhauled, more aggressive AI. There's also a new online tournament mode and online co-op campaign, if you're into that whole teamwork thing.

EA representatives wouldn't give me a narrower launch window than October at last week's EA Summer Showcase, but I was told that gamers should expect NBA Jam: On Fire Edition right around the time when "basketball games usually release." So, October, then.

Gallery: NBA Jam: On Fire Edition (7/7/11)

NBA Jam: On Fire Edition will be $15, sport a touch of razzle-dazzle originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Jul 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Amazon Wii deals say 'Condadulations'

JC Fletcher — Mon, 30 May 2011 15:45:00 EST

Amazon is getting started on its Father's Day celebration early, with the first of three week-long video game sales in honor of "Dads and grads." That website's dad is really important to it, we suppose -- he helped Amazon.com develop a strong sense of right and wrong, and provided the encouragement it needed to grow up and be a successful website -- and made just the best chili.

The first sale, running through June 4, discounts a bunch of Wii games and accessories, heavily focused on EA Sports stuff, like NBA Jam for $20 and Tiger Woods PGA Tour 12 The Masters for $30. Next week, from June 5 through June 11, Amazon will offer "Handheld Deals," followed by "Next Generation Console & PC Deals" on June 12-18.

Amazon Wii deals say 'Condadulations' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 May 2011 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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NBA Jam hits iPad from downtown

JC Fletcher — Thu, 21 Apr 2011 20:00:00 EST

One day, Goldilocks decided she wanted to play EA's new NBA Jam. First, she sat down on the couch and tried to play it on a console, but the TV was too big. So she pulled her iPhone out of her pocket and downloaded NBA Jam from the App Store. But that screen was too small.

Finally, EA released a version of NBA Jam for the iPad, and it was just right (and cost $10). EA also released an update for the iPhone version that adds multiplayer functionality, but we couldn't fit that into the story.

NBA Jam hits iPad from downtown originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 21 Apr 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mortal Kombat secret character tryouts may disturb you

Griffin McElroy — Tue, 12 Apr 2011 01:38:00 EST

The Machinima clip posted after the jump is, in many ways, deplorable. It shows some of our most beloved game characters of all time brutally fatality-ing a number of Mortal Kombat fighters, and we're finding it difficult to shake. On the other hand, we've gotta have that NBA Jam cameo. We need it.

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NBA Jam: On Fire Edition drives to PSN, XBLA this October

Randy Nelson — Tue, 05 Apr 2011 17:08:00 EST

EA Sports is working on a follow-up to last year's reboot of NBA Jam, but this one's going download-only. NBA Jam: On Fire Edition is set to take the court in October for both PS3 and Xbox Live (no Wii release announced) and will arrive via PlayStation Network and Xbox Live Arcade, respectively. It's worth noting that last year's game was a full $50 retail release, but a stripped-down version was originally planned as a downloadable title free to those who purchased new copies of the ill-fated NBA Elite 11.

On Fire Edition will benefit from new opponent AI (adapted from the Fight Night titles), revamped visuals and a host of new online features including an online co-op "Road Trip" campaign mode and roster updates. The new AI is promising competition that "learns your tendencies and throws them back in your face."

Y'know, kind of like having the fact that you paid 50 bucks for the last game, when this one will probably run $15-20, thrown back in your face. Boomshakalaka!

Continue reading NBA Jam: On Fire Edition drives to PSN, XBLA this October

NBA Jam: On Fire Edition drives to PSN, XBLA this October originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Apr 2011 17:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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NBA Jam confirmed for iPhone, teaser video shows off UI

Griffin McElroy — Mon, 07 Feb 2011 19:20:00 EST

You probably already possess a wide array of accessories for your Apple-branded mobile device, but we suggest adding some form of iPhone wrist bungee to your collection. Why? EA Sports has announced that its over-the-top, recently remade basketball title NBA Jam is getting ported to the iPhone, and we can't imagine that we'll able to play it without inadvertently "slam dunking" our expensive cell phones to the ground with each and every "Boom-Shaka-Laka" therein.

The publisher didn't announce any pricing or release date details, but did reveal a short gameplay clip, which we've posted after the jump. Looks like the lo-fi graphics of the modern remake have maintained their quality on the iPhone -- though we'll have to wait until it's released to find out how well those touch controls work when executing the highest, nastiest, most bodacious dunkaroos.

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NBA Jam confirmed for iPhone, teaser video shows off UI originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 07 Feb 2011 19:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Thrifty Nerd crams yet a few more gaming deals into 2010

Mike Schramm — Fri, 31 Dec 2010 07:00:00 EST

The price-conscious folks over at Thrifty Nerd have picked up on a few more solid end-of-the-year gaming deals. If you somehow still haven't bought enough games to last you through 2011 (or at least until Dead Space 2 hits on January 25), here are a few more great titles to get on the cheap:

Amazon's got that WoW deal back on again: Buy the original World of Warcraft and get Burning Crusade for free.
Amazon also has Halo: Reach for just $39, Batman: Arkham Asylum GOTY for $20 and Dance Central for $39.
Newegg has NBA Jam for just $30 on PS3 and Xbox 360.
Buy.com is selling arcade racer Blur for just over $17.
And finally, Walmart has underrated shooter Metro 2033 for under $20.

There. Are you happy? Have enough games now? Sheesh!

Thrifty Nerd crams yet a few more gaming deals into 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 31 Dec 2010 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dwight Howard hits the streets for NBA Jam

David Hinkle — Thu, 02 Dec 2010 05:00:00 EST

EA set up an NBA Jam arcade cabinet out on the street in NYC and had hoopster extraordinaire Dwight Howard hang out and play with folks recently. That's all well and good, but we're a bit concerned at the comfort level of these people in the video.

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Dwight Howard hits the streets for NBA Jam originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Dec 2010 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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NBA Jam on PS3 and Xbox getting day-one online multiplayer patch

Ben Gilbert — Mon, 15 Nov 2010 14:40:00 EST

NBA Jam ballers on Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 need not worry about online functionality -- aside from "Classic Mode" being available out of the box, the patch adding online versus and co-op to the rest of the modes will be available at launch. Get an early look at what it'll add after the break.

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NBA Jam on PS3 and Xbox getting day-one online multiplayer patch originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 15 Nov 2010 14:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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NBA JAM trailer features the Washington D.C. Globetrotters

Griffin McElroy — Wed, 03 Nov 2010 12:00:00 EST

So, you've still got the burning urge to engage in politics following yesterday's Midterm election? Don't actually get involved with your local government bodies -- that would be ridiculous! Instead, watch this NBA Jam video, which features a bunch of showboating, high-dunking politicians.

Continue reading NBA JAM trailer features the Washington D.C. Globetrotters

NBA JAM trailer features the Washington D.C. Globetrotters originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Nov 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Our favorite SCOTUS quotes with commentary from the NBA Jam guy

Justin McElroy — Tue, 02 Nov 2010 13:50:00 EST

We're still poring over the transcripts from today's Schwarzenegger vs. EMA case, and as we discussed it, we decided our enthusiasm for the judges' utter contempt for the Schwazenegger side's argument could only be summed up with quotes from NBA Jam announcer Tim Kitzrow.

Enjoy.

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Our favorite SCOTUS quotes with commentary from the NBA Jam guy originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Nov 2010 13:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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NBA Jam sets PS3 and Xbox 360 on fire Nov. 17

JC Fletcher — Thu, 21 Oct 2010 09:55:00 EST

EA has finally revealed the launch details for the PS3 and Xbox 360 versions of NBA Jam, originally to be given away with NBA Elite 11. The arcade basketball title will slam dunk into retail on November 17, for the same $50 price point as the Wii version. Effectively, it replaces NBA Elite 11 as EA's holiday basketball game (though analyst Michael Pachter has predicted that it won't be an adequate replacement). In fact, we're pretty sure someone at EA is desperately trying to perform a Jedi mind trick on us now, to convince us that there was never anything called NBA Elite, and Jam has always been the plan.

You'll be able to play Classic 2-on-2 mode online on day one, but EA plans to add several additional online features in a December title update -- features like various "Remix Games," four-player Jam Party mode, and an Online Progression mode in which players build their character by taking them through a series of online challenges. The fact that all the online features aren't ready for launch adds more credence to the idea that EA is using this to plug an Elite-shaped hole.

Gallery: NBA Jam (PS3/Xbox 360)

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NBA Jam sets PS3 and Xbox 360 on fire Nov. 17 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 21 Oct 2010 09:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fox News uncovers NBA Jam's liberal agenda

Christopher Grant — Fri, 08 Oct 2010 10:04:00 EST

At journalism camp, we all learned to ask "the hard questions." For your pals at Joystiq, given the opportunity to chat with Peter Moore following EA Sports' last-minute delay of NBA Elite 11 and the subsequent rush to make NBA Jam on Xbox 360 and PS3 a fully featured product in and of itself, we'd have had no shortage of questions. "How are you going to bring the HD versions of the game up to feature parity with the Wii this year?" "With NBA 2K 11 gathering accolades, are you concerned that changing the NBA Live formula and then delaying it is ceding ground to the competition?" And the list goes on.

Fox News' Jenna Lee, given the same opportunity, asked the hard hitting question that we -- perhaps because of our single-minded focus on video games or perhaps because of our shortage of political acumen -- never thought to ask: "Is this a bipartisan game though, Peter?"

You see, President Obama, in addition to actually playing basketball, not being ancient and being president of the country, has some special moves in the game, clearly illustrating political bias on the part of the liberal fat cats at EA. In the interest of defusing this tense political standoff, we'd like to point out that Ms. Palin appears to have her own special move: playing men's basketball.

Watch the full clip after the break.

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Fox News uncovers NBA Jam's liberal agenda originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Oct 2010 10:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Obama, Palin, others playable in NBA Jam

Ben Gilbert — Tue, 05 Oct 2010 21:15:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

What, you expected any less? Yes, of course various political and cultural icons will be showing up in EA's just released reboot to NBA Jam. ESPN revealed as much in a recent interview with the game's creative director, Trey Smith, who said not only is former President Bill Clinton a playable character, but also the Beastie Boys, President Obama, Vice President Joe Biden, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and former VP Al Gore.

A team of republicans is helmed by Miss Wasilla 1984 herself, Sarah Palin, with former President George W. Bush, former VP Dick Cheney and Arizona Senator John McCain backing her up. "Secret characters were on the list from day one," Smith said, adding "these secret characters and the element of surprise is something we hung our hats on very early." EA wouldn't reveal how said characters are accessed, but considering the game was released today for Nintendo Wii (with 360 and PS3 versions coming "in time for the holidays"), we'd suggest you start pounding away at buttons on that character selection screen right now.

Obama, Palin, others playable in NBA Jam originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Oct 2010 21:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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NBA Jam review: Make new modes, but keep the old

Griffin McElroy — Tue, 05 Oct 2010 00:01:00 EST

Let's acknowledge something you've probably already realized if you've been keeping up with the numerous trailers and previews for EA Canada's reboot of the NBA Jam franchise: Your enjoyment of the game will be exponentially enriched if you're familiar with the culture of the original. Midway's NBA Jam didn't just introduce standards that most modern basketball games still include in some manner or another -- it created a language which only the game's players could fully comprehend.

There's nothing wrong with the fact that EA Sports clearly targeted this community with the new NBA Jam by acknowledging the catchphrases, over-the-top maneuvers and arcadey gameplay of Jam the First. In fact, it's a testament to the undying strength of that original formula that EA Canada's attempts to tack new material on to it largely fall flat.

Gallery: NBA Jam

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EA Canada racing to add features to NBA Jam on PS3, Xbox 360

James Ransom-Wiley — Mon, 04 Oct 2010 13:45:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

"We got this bomb dropped on us just a couple days ago, as well," NBA Jam creative director Trey Smith told Toronto sports radio show Got Game (interview begins as 00:15:38 mark), about EA's last-minute decision to turn the HD console version of the game into a standalone retail product. "So we're shuffling to get everything together, but we got a great team; we got a lot of stuff up and working; we're gonna polish it up; we're gonna get it out there before holidays."

Smith and his team at EA Canada have completed the full-featured Wii version of NBA Jam (which will be released tomorrow) and "had online up" -- Smith characterized it as a "really basic online feature set" -- for the planned stripped-down, digital release of Jam on PS3 and Xbox 360. This bonus downloadable version, which was to be included with new copies of the now delayed NBA Elite 11, was to include just the Play Now, Classic Campaign and Online Vs. modes -- "we're trying to blow that out," Smith stressed.

The Wii game includes the Remix Tour, which encompasses a number of new modes and takes EA Canada's "best testers" 38 hours to complete, according to Smith, who also confirmed "you get Remix" in the PS3 and Xbox 360 version, as well. At least, that's the new plan. "We're doing everything in our power to get as much on there as possible," Smith assured. "We're trying to throw it all in there."

EA Canada racing to add features to NBA Jam on PS3, Xbox 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Oct 2010 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Pachter: NBA Elite 11 delay to cost EA 1.1 million sales this year; NBA Jam no savior

Alexander Sliwinski — Thu, 30 Sep 2010 18:15:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

In a recent investor communique, Wedbush Morgan analyst Michael Pachter noted his belief that Electronic Arts would lose 1.1 million sales due to NBA Elite 11's delay and reduced the company's holiday quarter earnings estimate by $60 million. Also, because the sports sim will miss the beginning of basketball season with its 2011 release, he predicts that by the end of the company's fiscal year next March, Elite 11 will have only sold around 500,000 units -- if it doesn't succumb to the "possibility of being canceled."

Pachter's note briefly mentions the standalone versions of NBA Jam as "not a true substitute," so we followed up with the analyst extraordinaire to find out why he believes EA's other NBA game can't make up the difference.

"The standalone versions on PS3 and 360 might sell well, but I question whether they will be priced as $60 games, when the company had previously said it was giving them away with NBA Elite." He continued, "More likely, they'll be discounted to $50 or lower, and gamers will still balk at the price, given that it was going to be bundled with NBA Elite -- and likely will be, if the latter game ever comes out. So I'd say another 200,000 units, maybe."

As for the Wii version, he explained that the game was coming out anyway for the console, so the lack of NBA Elite may give it a "very small" bump of 100,000 units.

Pachter: NBA Elite 11 delay to cost EA 1.1 million sales this year; NBA Jam no savior originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Sep 2010 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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NBA Elite 11 delayed, NBA Jam coming as standalone product for 360 and PS3

Griffin McElroy — Mon, 27 Sep 2010 19:00:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

Well, it seems like the details regarding the release of the NBA Jam reboot on the 360 and PS3 have changed yet again. EA Sports just announced that its upcoming basketball title, NBA Elite 11, has been delayed beyond its release next month to an undisclosed launch window. You know, NBA Elite 11 -- that game that would come with a download voucher for NBA Jam, serving as "the ONLY way" players could grab Jam on Microsoft or Sony's home consoles? Seems that line's changed too.

The delay announcement also revealed that "we're going to ship NBA Jam as a standalone product on the Xbox 360 and PS3 in time for the holidays. Watch for more news soon on the exact timing of that release." We're going to hound EA to find out more about these plans -- will it be a retail release (the use of the word "ship" certainly seems to indicate as much). If so, will it carry a $60 price tag? Will NBA Elite 11 still come with a free copy of Jam, or has that offer been summarily revoked? Is this a test? Are you testing us?

NBA Elite 11 delayed, NBA Jam coming as standalone product for 360 and PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 27 Sep 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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NBA Jam East rosters revealed, legends included

James Ransom-Wiley — Wed, 08 Sep 2010 11:15:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

"Mr. NBA 2K11" is still noticeably absent from NBA Jam's Eastern Conference roster, which does boast the likes of Bird, Dr. J and Jordan sidekick Scottie Pippen. Even Drazen Petrovic, who is said to haunt the original arcade game and was removed from console versions following his death in a car accident, has been resurrected as a Nets legend. Of course, the new NBA Jam will feature plenty of current players, including the Miami Thrice, when it's released next month for Wii and as a downloadable bonus with new copies of NBA Elite 11 for Xbox 360 and PS3.

Each team has 3-4 active players, as determined by fan voting (with the exception of Gilbert Arenas, who made the cut but was left out of the voting after that handgun fiasco), explains ESPN, which obtained the complete game roster -- the West's stars to be posted next week [update: West rosters]. Additionally, most teams have a "legend" or two -- or three for the Knicks: Ewing, LJ and Starks (hey, they need help!) -- on hand, with a preference for the original arcade's stars (sorry Zo!). Some teams don't have a long or storied enough history to feature a legend, in which case EA has added the team's mascot to the bench -- or in the Pacers' case (a contractual hiccup with Reggie Miller), there's simply ... Schrempf.

Some late summer trades also contribute to a few oddities in the final rosters, with Courtney Lee (now a Houston Rocket) still on the Nets and Al Harrington (now in Denver) still a Knick. It's unlikely the Wii version will be patched after release, and EA Sports community manager Alain Quinto recently confirmed (in response to the question) that it wouldn't feature online multiplayer either.

Head past the break for the full Eastern Conference breakdown.

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NBA Jam developer diary mixes the old with the new

Griffin McElroy — Fri, 20 Aug 2010 00:00:00 EST

The NBA Jam developer diary posted below shows the considerations that went into solving the game's many artistic dilemmas. Like, how to make the game look new, but old? Rich, yet simple? Fun, yet serious? Modern, yet timeless? Basketball, yet golf? No, wait. Everything but that last one.

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NBA Jam developer diary mixes the old with the new originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Aug 2010 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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NBA Jam video takes aim at 'The Turmell Hit List'

David Hinkle — Mon, 09 Aug 2010 22:00:00 EST

It's easy to take jamming for granted. In NBA Jam, lighting one's self on fire and pulling off "the mad crazy dunks" looks so simple. It seems like all you need are some colorful shoes and a deep determination to dish rocks but, as creative director Trey Smith informs us in the video past the break, it takes more than that -- specifically, it takes knowledge.

And that's the inspiration behind bringing back Mark Turmell, the lead designer and programmer on the original game. It's allowed EA Canada to identify what has been internally referred to as "The Turmell Hit List," a list of initially overlooked issues Turmell brought to the table.

Continue reading NBA Jam video takes aim at 'The Turmell Hit List'

NBA Jam video takes aim at 'The Turmell Hit List' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Aug 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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NBA Jam download included with new copies of NBA Elite 11 on 360 and PS3 [update]

Alexander Sliwinski — Tue, 03 Aug 2010 09:07:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

EA announced this morning that customers will receive a download code for NBA Jam on Xbox 360 or PlayStation 3 with every new copy of its upcoming (and far more serious) basketball game, NBA Elite 11. To some of you, it may be best to think of it as a free NBA Elite 11 with every NBA Jam. The way EA explains it: if you drop $60 on NBA Elite 11, due on October 5, the game will offer a "one-time download code" for three modes of NBA Jam, including Play Now, Classic Campaign and Online. The "Remix Tour" mode remains exclusive to the Wii version.

By now, brilliant reader, you've likely caught on that there seems to be something missing here, like an individual release date or price for a standalone NBA Jam. We're following up with EA on that, but this deal already serves as an explanation for NBA Jam's appearance on several ratings boards -- sans official confirmation that the game would launch on anything else but the Nintendo Wii. (Also, would this be the wrong time to bring up that a large portion of a Wii game just got Project Ten Dollar'd?)

Update 2: Official word from EA: "NBA Jam has been optimized for the Wii, but the content of the Classic Campaign and Play Now modes will be the same as the Wii version. Jam is only available with the purchase NBA Elite 11. There are no plans to sell it as a standalone product on the X360 or PS3 at this time."

Update: On the PlayStation Blog, NBA EA Canada community manager Yaw Obiri-Yeboah emphasizes: "Another important note to share with all of you - the ONLY way you will be able to play NBA JAM for the PS3 is to buy NBA ELITE 11." ESPN reports the same goes for Xbox 360.

NBA Jam download included with new copies of NBA Elite 11 on 360 and PS3 [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Aug 2010 09:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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More legendary players revealed in NBA Jam

JC Fletcher — Sun, 01 Aug 2010 15:30:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

NBA Jam is itself an NBA classic, so it's only fitting that the revamped Wii version brings back some classic players. A new trailer posted by MTV Multiplayer unveils six NBA stars who will return in big-headed glory: Clyde Drexler, Kevin MacHale, Dennis Rodman, Hakeem Olajuwan, Detlef Schrempf, and James Worthy. They'll join the previously confirmed Magic Johnson and Larry Bird. See the trailer after the break.

An ESPN interview with creative director Trey Smith provides some additional info about the nature of the game's "boss fights" -- one-on-one matches with these legendary players. For example, Magic Johnson can now perform, well, magic, teleporting around the court. "You think he's cheating, but that's a boss battle," Smith said. Players will have to watch for patterns, "And then, it's all about executing."

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More legendary players revealed in NBA Jam originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 01 Aug 2010 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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ESRB outs NBA Jam on Xbox 360 and PS3

Alexander Sliwinski — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 09:20:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

Though EA continues to dance around a version of NBA Jam for consoles beyond Wii, the United States' ESRB is the latest ratings agency to announce the game for Xbox 360 and PS3. The German USK listed the cherished basketball game for high-def consoles earlier this month.

We're -- once again -- following up for official comment from EA. We know the ratings boards can't be the only ones looking for the game on more systems.

Update: The ESRB has pulled the rating -- still no word from EA.

Gallery: NBA Jam

ESRB outs NBA Jam on Xbox 360 and PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Jul 2010 09:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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NBA Jam screens give us a taste of the James, Bosh, Wade trifecta

David Hinkle — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 20:45:00 EST

You've already seen a near photo-realistic rendering of LeBron James in a Miami Heat uniform, and now you can see a comically over-the-top version, courtesy of NBA Jam.

These shots give us but a taste of what's to come from new teammates Dwayne Wade, Chris Bosh and Lebron James, but also provide a look at the Chicago Bulls' new forward: Carlos Boozer. Take a shot on our gallery below for the new screens.

Gallery: NBA Jam -- Miami Heat vs Chicago Bulls

Continue reading NBA Jam screens give us a taste of the James, Bosh, Wade trifecta

NBA Jam screens give us a taste of the James, Bosh, Wade trifecta originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Jul 2010 20:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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German ratings board classifies NBA Jam for Xbox 360, PS3

Alexander Sliwinski — Wed, 07 Jul 2010 11:30:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

Der (die?, das?) boomshakalaka of NBA Jam has been classified by the German USK for Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3. The PlayStation 3 classification passed on June 24, while the Xbox 360 version went through July 5. Curiously, the Wii version of the game -- the only one to have been officially announced -- has not yet been classified by the agency.

We're currently following up for comment from EA on the ratings and will update as soon as we hear something.

Gallery: NBA Jam

German ratings board classifies NBA Jam for Xbox 360, PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Jul 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Preview: NBA Jam

JC Fletcher — Tue, 29 Jun 2010 10:00:00 EST

I played a quick half of an NBA Jam game at EA's booth between a couple of E3 appointments. In that short session, I had a great time -- but I think my AI partner had a much better time than I did. That's not to say I didn't enjoy myself: in my admittedly brief experience with EA Canada's renewed version of the classic arcade basketball game, I found that pretty much everything about the game is scientifically designed to deliver maximum fun.

Gallery: NBA Jam

Continue reading Preview: NBA Jam

Preview: NBA Jam originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 Jun 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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NBA Jam contest winners get their one-liners in the game

David Hinkle — Fri, 14 May 2010 12:30:00 EST

EA has launched a promotional contest for NBA Jam in which entrants submit their best -- or best worst -- one-liners for a chance to have them used by classic NBA Jam announcer Tim Kitzrow in the Wii game. We imagine winning is akin to being Zack Morris for the rest of your life.

As the instructional video above, uh, instructs, you'll need to submit your one-liners on the NBA Jam contest page on Facebook. The contest is already underway, and the entry period closes May 19.

Oh, need one to get you started? How about: "Need some fries with that BOOMSHAKE-A-LAKE-A-LAKE?" (Hmm, maybe you should just come up with one of your own.)

NBA Jam contest winners get their one-liners in the game originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 May 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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EA talks big head mode, faces for NBA Jam

Richard Mitchell — Fri, 02 Apr 2010 21:45:00 EST

Speaking with Multiplayer, NBA Jam creative director Trey Smith shared the inspiration behind the digitized faces of the upcoming Wii remake. According to Smith, tne of the key features of the original NBA Jam was the ability to tell who each individual player was from a distance. "You could tell who each [player] was," said Smith, "and that was something really key to us." He added that the team behind the new Jam worked closely with series creator Mark Turmell, who currently works with EA Tiburon. "He spent time with the team, and really kind of talked to us about it," said Smith, adding that Turmell shared "a lot of the stories" about the visual style of the first game.

And, if you like the crazy, 2D faces used for each player model as much as we do, there's more good news. Smith confirmed that NBA Jam will include a big head mode. "Wait until you see big head mode, because that's where we really start playing around with it." He concludes that the team wanted to be "as true to the original NBA Jam as possible, but using all the bells and whistles we have in the last 17 years since it came out."

Whatever the team is doing, it seems to be working.

EA talks big head mode, faces for NBA Jam originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Apr 2010 21:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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NBA Jam brings Larry Bird and Magic Johnson back to the hardwood

David Hinkle — Wed, 31 Mar 2010 20:00:00 EST

If you thought your excitement for NBA Jam couldn't get any higher after reading our preview, know that MTV Multiplayer has confirmed that classic ballers Larry Bird and Magic Johnson are in the game. Creative director Trey Smith said that the second-to-last team that players will face in the Classic Campaign mode -- the game's "worst-to-first ladder tournament," which pits players against a series of teams -- will be decided based on who wins the 2010 NBA championships. Then, the final match will feature the iconic duo.

There's no word on other possible unlockable characters, but, frankly, we're going to flip out if we don't get to play as Chow Chow or Bill Clinton. Get on it, EA!

NBA Jam brings Larry Bird and Magic Johnson back to the hardwood originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 31 Mar 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Hands-on: NBA Jam

Griffin McElroy — Wed, 31 Mar 2010 03:00:00 EST

You need to get the preconception that NBA Jam is part of the rigid "sports game" genre out of your mind right this second. I can understand why you might possess this notion: for gamers whose youths were spent mastering the original game's showboating mechanics, Jam is one of the few franchises they can call up when accused of not playing sports games. For folks unfamiliar with the franchise, one might logically associate a bouncy, orange sphere with its eponymous sport: "basketball."

Yet, based on my time with EA Canada's Wii-make of NBA Jam earlier this month, I don't think the "sports game" archetype -- a turn-off for many non-sports enthusiasts -- is an accurate descriptor for what's going on here. Jam is a "party game" and will likely overtake Rock Band and Boom Blox as my entertainment of choice while hosting a social gathering. Provided, of course, attendees are prepared to get buffeted with an unstoppable deluge of smack talk.

Gallery: NBA Jam

Continue reading Hands-on: NBA Jam

Hands-on: NBA Jam originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 31 Mar 2010 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Newest NBA Jam trailer brings plenty of extra heat

Ben Gilbert — Sun, 14 Mar 2010 21:00:00 EST

As you might imagine, the vast majority of the "heat" that the newest trailer for NBA Jam brings with it is through the various players running up and down the court fully ablaze (it certainly doesn't hurt when the screen catches fire as well). Don't get us wrong -- it's full of gameplay that puts us right back on the couch in 1994, trying to desperately remember the code so that we can play as our favorite US president.

That said, the announcer probably says "Kaboom!" four or five times. And yeah, somewhere in the middle there, we realized that NBA Jam just doesn't have that many catchphrases. But that's okay with us -- the gameplay looks fantastic! We'll have our impressions of the game up in a few weeks, but for now you can peep the trailer yourself just a few inches up.

Newest NBA Jam trailer brings plenty of extra heat originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 14 Mar 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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EA tells NCAA Basketball games to hit the showers, 'reviewing' future of franchise

David Hinkle — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 20:30:00 EST

"We do not have an NCAA Basketball game in development at this time, and we're currently reviewing the future of our NCAA Basketball business," said EA Sports' senior director of communications David Tinson in a recent Game Informer interview. "This was a difficult decision, but we remain a committed partner to the NCAA and its member institutions."

It's an odd move, considering EA's biggest rival, 2K Sports' NCAA College Hoops series, hasn't seen any new releases since its 2K8 installment, leaving the market wide open. Tinson confirmed that the team responsible for the series won't be laid off, but rather assimilated into the NBA Jam and NBA Live teams at EA Canada, dashing our hopes that an EA-developed Harlem Globetrotters game could come from this.

EA tells NCAA Basketball games to hit the showers, 'reviewing' future of franchise originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Feb 2010 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Crysis 2, Sims 3 on consoles, NBA Jam due Holiday 2010

Justin McElroy — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 17:25:00 EST

Thanks to today's EA earnings report (EArnings?) we're starting to get an idea of how the company's holiday season is going to shape up. This is all subject to change, of course, but as of right now it would appear you can look forward to Crysis 2, NBA Jam and EA Sports MMA sometime between October and December of 2010.

Filling out the holiday quarter are some yet-to-be-formally-announced titles like The Sims 3 on consoles, a new Need For Speed game (perhaps the Criterion-developed one?) and a new Harry Potter game (likely tied to this November's Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part I). Want to come up with your own wild speculation? Peruse the list here.

Crysis 2, Sims 3 on consoles, NBA Jam due Holiday 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 17:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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LGJ: Wait, it's not a derivative?

Mark Methenitis — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

Filed under: Features

Mark Methenitis contributes Law of the Game on Joystiq ("LGJ"), a column on legal issues as they relate to video games:

I noticed an interesting point brought up in the comments to the last LGJ: that the new NBA Jam was certainly a derivative work, so even if the trademark issue weren't a problem, the holder of the copyright to the original game could certainly bring suit for copyright infringement. Given that no one seems to know who acquired those rights in the Midway dissolution, I can see why this is brought up as an issue. However, a deeper look at the derivative works analysis suggests that EA's NBA Jam might not be a derivative at all; of course, much of this depends on the final product, which we have yet to see.

The old standby statement that sequels are derivative works is, for the most part, a true one in the broad context of all copyrighted works. After all, sequels to books and movies are derivatives, or at least I cannot think of a single sequel that is not one in those media. And for the most part, game sequels are derivatives as well, but not always. And to understand the difference, you have to look at what a derivative work is, what it isn't, and how sequels are different in a book and movie context than they can be in a game context.

Continue reading LGJ: Wait, it's not a derivative?

LGJ: Wait, it's not a derivative? originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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LGJ: Nagging Trademark Questions

Mark Methenitis — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 03:00:00 EST

Filed under: Features

Mark Methenitis contributes Law of the Game on Joystiq ("LGJ"), a column on legal issues as they relate to video games:

So, you heard the rumors about EA working on NBA Jam, and then the confirmation of a new NBA Jam for the Wii, and you, like so many other people, thought to yourself, "Hey, what ever happens to trademarks that aren't being used? And why can't we figure out what's going on with NBA Jam before the press release by searching the Trademark office?" Well, I'm glad you asked, because these are questions that it's high time I answered. Most people have a good idea that a trademark is a brand name or logo, and most people know that they can be registered with the government to be better protected. But what about those other general trademark issues? LGJ has focused on trademark disputes on many occasions, but we're overdue to go over some of the expanded trademark basics for the benefit of the Joystiq readers.

So, with trademarks, as with copyrights, there's a common law protection as well as a Federal registry in the US. There are also state registrations for trademarks, but, ultimately, the Federal registry offers the greatest protection. In fact, there is a whole list of benefits to registration. But the point remains, simply using a name for a product creates at least some level of trademark protection. From a practical sense, though, as long as you qualify for a registered trademark, it's much better to have a registered trademark. And that trademark can basically last forever as long as you meet two relatively straightforward conditions.

Continue reading LGJ: Nagging Trademark Questions

LGJ: Nagging Trademark Questions originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Jan 2010 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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NBA Jam to set the Wii on fire in 2010

Griffin McElroy — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 10:15:00 EST

Great news, sports fans -- an EA Sports press release just brought some (anticipated) hoop-shaking news into our dreary Monday morning: NBA Jam is getting relaunched (or, rather, re-relaunched) later this year on the Wii by EA Canada. Details are slim, but the presser promises "new game modes, characters and gameplay depth," while simultaneously "[re-defining] the visuals for a sports game yet again."

Not explicitly mentioned is whether the series' original progenitor, Mark Turmell, will be collaborating on the game. Considering he's currently stationed at EA Tiburon in Orlando, it's not beyond the realm of possibilities -- and if he is contributing, we feel confident that the title will be in gooBOOOOM-SHAKA-LAKA! Woah, sorry. We got a little overexcited there.

NBA Jam to set the Wii on fire in 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Jan 2010 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rumor: EA Sports creating new NBA Jam

Alexander Sliwinski — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 11:02:00 EST

ESPN reports that Electronic Arts has acquired the rights for NBA Jam and has assigned EA Canada's Vancouver studio to a reboot of the franchise. The game's original creator, Mark Turmell, who currently works at EA Tiburon as a senior creative director, is allegedly collaborating on the project, which, according to ESPN, will "ship to retail exclusively for the Wii."

With no other platforms mentioned in the report, the story sounds a bit off. However, 1UP, which has partnered with ESPN on the sports network's video game wing, has suggested XBLA and PSN versions of a new NBA Jam are also in the works, though that is not corroborated by the original report.

We've contacted EA and Turmell for confirmation and details. EA Sports will allegedly announce the game later this month.

Update: Joystiq has confirmed with Warner Bros. that it did not purchase the NBA Jam license when it acquired elements of Midway. EA's official statement: "We do not comment on speculation or rumor."

Rumor: EA Sports creating new NBA Jam originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Jan 2010 11:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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