Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Final Fantasy V out on iOS in New Zealand today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/27/final-fantasy-v-out-on-ios-in-new-zealand-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/27/final-fantasy-v-out-on-ios-in-new-zealand-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/27/final-fantasy-v-out-on-ios-in-new-zealand-today/#comments Final Fantasy V out on iOS in New Zealand todaySquare Enix's questionably upgraded iOS version of Final Fantasy 5 has arrived on the App Store in New Zealand, which suggests it'll propagate throughout the world as the day goes on, likely arriving in North America late tonight. Square Enix had previously announced plans to release the port on iOS in March, but only in Japan, so the localized release comes as something of a surprise.

Final Fantasy 5 retails for $19.99 NZD, which is equivalent to $16.69 USD. Yeah, that seems a bit high, but Square Enix could use the money.

JoystiqFinal Fantasy V out on iOS in New Zealand today originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>final-fantasy-viosipadiphonemobilenew-zealandWed, 27 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BioShock Infinite pre-orders in EU, AU, NZ can get Steelbook case]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/14/bioshock-infinite-pre-orders-in-eu-au-nz-can-get-steelbook-cas/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/14/bioshock-infinite-pre-orders-in-eu-au-nz-can-get-steelbook-cas/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/14/bioshock-infinite-pre-orders-in-eu-au-nz-can-get-steelbook-cas/#comments BioShock Infinite preorders in EU, AU, NZ can get Steelbook case via GamestopGameStop, EB Games and Micromania locations in Europe, Australia, and New Zeland will have a special, exclusive preorder item for the upcoming Bioshock Infinite. Players who pre-order the game at the specified retail chains in those regions will be rewarded with a special "Fink Manufacturing SteelBook case," emblazoned with the Fink Manufacturing logo.

In America, GameStop already offers the "Industrial Revolution" pack with a preorder, as well as a special in-game weapon. But it looks like the SteelBook case is just for GameStop International customers. Bioshock Infinite is due on March 26.

JoystiqBioShock Infinite pre-orders in EU, AU, NZ can get Steelbook case originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Feb 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiabioshockbioshock-infinitebonusbonusescaseeuropefink-manufacturinggamestopindustrial-revolutionmicrosoftnew-zealandpcplaystationpreorderps3steelbookxboxThu, 14 Feb 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Theatrhythm Final Fantasy shows up on iOS App Store]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/12/theatrhythm-final-fantasy-shows-up-on-ios-app-store/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/12/theatrhythm-final-fantasy-shows-up-on-ios-app-store/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/12/theatrhythm-final-fantasy-shows-up-on-ios-app-store/#comments Theatrhythm Final Fantasy shows up on iOS App StoreAn unannounced iOS port of the 3DS music game Theatrhythm Final Fantasy has shown up on New Zealand's iOS App Store, which usually portends a worldwide release throughout the day.

The iOS game adds a "Quest Medley" mode, which puts you through a random pairing of "field" and "battle" levels, different each time you play. It also adds some kind of composition mode, along with the ability to share creations via Twitter.

Unlike the 3DS version, the iOS release is free to download. As reported by NeoGAF users, it comes with just two songs, with the rest purchased as in-app bundles. Even additional characters are sold via IAP. In fact, user Goli notes that, when the NZ release of the game is opened in a US account, the prices for in-app purchases show up in US denominations ... and add up to around $150.

In any case, Theatrhythm is worth a try if you have even the slightest appreciation for Final Fantasy music. The 3DS version retails for $30.

JoystiqTheatrhythm Final Fantasy shows up on iOS App Store originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Dec 2012 10:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>iosipadiphonemobilenew-zealandtheatrhythm-final-fantasyWed, 12 Dec 2012 10:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Bastion heading to iPad tomorrow [updated]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/29/bastion-heading-to-ipad-as-new-zealand-app-store-listing-outs-th/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/29/bastion-heading-to-ipad-as-new-zealand-app-store-listing-outs-th/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/29/bastion-heading-to-ipad-as-new-zealand-app-store-listing-outs-th/#comments Bastion heading to iPad as New Zealand App Store listing outs the port
The kid is sauntering over to Apple's iPad tomorrow in Bastion from Supergiant Games. New Zealanders - beyond the beautiful rolling hills and verdant greenery - get iOS games ahead of the rest of the planet due to the position of the sun and how that relates to our definition of time, you see, so it's already available in that territory. The game has a set launch date of August 30, but some territories are already in the future.

Anyway, Bastion's iPad-only for now, which Supergiant says was a decision made due to "technical reasons." Additionally, the team, "felt the game experience would not translate well to the iPhone's smaller screen."

When it arrives on the US App Store, it'll cost $4.99 and there's no demo version - you could always try it out in Google Chrome first? Don't hesitate to let us know if you see it pop up on our digital shores, which should be sometime tonight around 11PM ET. And head over to Supergiant's page for a ton more info about the new release.

Update: This story was updated to reflect the official announcement of Bastion on iOS.

JoystiqBastion heading to iPad tomorrow [updated] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Aug 2012 11:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>app-storebastioniosios-app-storeipaditunesmobilenew-zealandsupergiantsupergiant-gameswarner-broswarner-bros-interactivewbieWed, 29 Aug 2012 11:18:00 EST<![CDATA[The Walking Dead won't head down under]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/the-walking-dead-wont-head-down-under/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/the-walking-dead-wont-head-down-under/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/the-walking-dead-wont-head-down-under/#comments Australian and Kiwi zombie enthusiasts looking forward to the first episode of Telltale's The Walking Dead have been infected with something even more dangerous than a dead-raising mutagen: Disappointment.

While a listing for the title reportedly exists on the Australian PSN, The Walking Dead cannot actually be purchased or accessed in any fashion, according to a thread on the official Telltale forums. As it turns out, things are a bit worse than a broken listing: "Due to the OFLC ratings laws in Australia and New Zealand, and the fact that this is a mature game, we do not currently have plans to release the game there on consoles," so sayeth Telltale forums rep Mike.

For those of you not mired in the intricacies of Australian censorship politics, "OFLC" stands for the Office of Film and Literature Classification, which was the Australian Classification Board's parent agency until it was dissolved in 2006. Currently, the Classification Board belongs to the Attorney-General's Department, where it is responsible for assigning ratings to movies and video games.

At any rate, it must be reassuring to our friends down under that their island nations are apparently completely immune to zombie invasion.

JoystiqThe Walking Dead won't head down under originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Apr 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australianew-zealandplaystationps3PSNthe-walking-deadThu, 26 Apr 2012 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gameloft cleared after 'crunch' probe (ouch)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/14/gameloft-cleared-after-crunch-probe-ouch/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/14/gameloft-cleared-after-crunch-probe-ouch/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/14/gameloft-cleared-after-crunch-probe-ouch/#comments Former Gameloft Auckland head studio programmer Glenn Watson alleged in July that Gameloft pushed its employees to work 14-hour days, seven days a week, violating New Zealand's 2002 Health and Safety in Employment Act. The resulting investigation by the New Zealand Labour Department, covered by Develop, has now been closed after finding no substantial evidence of inappropriate crunch time or any breach of health and safety laws, and no legal action will be taken against Gameloft.

This is good news for mobile-game enthusiasts -- and for Gameloft employees.

JoystiqGameloft cleared after 'crunch' probe (ouch) originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 14 Jan 2012 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aucklandGameloftiosipadiphonemobilenew-zealandSat, 14 Jan 2012 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Uncharted 3 'Multiplayer Experience' live for PS Plus members in EMEA, AU/NZ this week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/03/uncharted-3-multiplayer-experience-live-for-ps-plus-members-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/03/uncharted-3-multiplayer-experience-live-for-ps-plus-members-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/03/uncharted-3-multiplayer-experience-live-for-ps-plus-members-in/#comments It seems that Subway and Naughty Dog's bizarre "Taste for Adventure" campaign doesn't extend past US borders, as Uncharted 3's "Multiplayer Experience" heads to other parts of the world this Wednesday without help from the sandwich chain. The only caveat? You must have a subscription to PlayStation Plus to join in.

Sony's EU blog announced as much this morning, detailing the "Multiplayer Experience" as a chance for gamers in "Europe, South Africa, The Middle East, Australia and New Zealand" to check out U3's multiplayer -- post-beta -- for a full month before the game's early November launch. Don't fret, frugal non-PS Plus subscriber, as the announce additionally teases "other ways to gain access" to the multiplayer... thing via the PS blog and community forums.

Like the US version, participants will be able to carry over "key aspects" of their multiplayer experience to the retail version, such as XP. Other details are unfortunately scant, but Sony promises more soon.

Gallery: Uncharted 3 (multiplayer)

JoystiqUncharted 3 'Multiplayer Experience' live for PS Plus members in EMEA, AU/NZ this week originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 03 Oct 2011 13:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiaeuropemultiplayermultiplayer-experiencenew-zealandplaystationplaystation-plusps-plusps3south-africathe-middle-eastuncharted-3uncharted-3-drakes-deceptionMon, 03 Oct 2011 13:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Former Gameloft Auckland head studio programmer calls working conditions 'dangerous']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/19/former-gameloft-auckland-head-studio-programmer-calls-working-co/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/19/former-gameloft-auckland-head-studio-programmer-calls-working-co/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/19/former-gameloft-auckland-head-studio-programmer-calls-working-co/#comments Encouraged by recent revelations regarding Team Bondi's working conditions during L.A. Noire's production, former Gameloft Auckland Head Studio Programmer Glenn Watson delivered his own testimonial during an interview with games.on.net, claiming that the studio's work environment is "dangerous."

According to Watson, Gameloft's senior management manufactured a constant sense of urgency among the studio's employees by creating false deadlines, which required employees to work 12- to 14-hour days, amassing hundreds of hours of unneeded overtime. Watson says he realized he needed to resign after "four consecutive weeks of fourteen-hour days - including weekends."

The studio's employees are contractually required to work any "reasonable hours" requested of them, however the definition of "reasonable hours" can reportedly be changed by senior management at any time. Watson claims that these conditions constitute "fatigue working" under New Zealand's 2002 Health and Safety in Employment Act, and that Gameloft's employees are legally entitled to refuse the work, regardless of their contractual obligations. He also claims that the studio's poor performance has been the direct result of the staff's working conditions, and that the employees would be able to meet the same deadlines with fewer mistakes, if only given a chance to rest.

JoystiqFormer Gameloft Auckland head studio programmer calls working conditions 'dangerous' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Jul 2011 00:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>GameloftGameloft-AucklandGlenn-WatsonmobileNew-ZealandTue, 19 Jul 2011 00:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PSN back in Europe and Australia, your password email may take some time]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/16/psn-back-in-europe-and-australia-your-password-email-may-take-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/16/psn-back-in-europe-and-australia-your-password-email-may-take-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/16/psn-back-in-europe-and-australia-your-password-email-may-take-s/#comments The select PlayStation Network services that came back online in North America over the weekend have now shaken off their bonds in a handful of other territories across the globs. Formerly jilted users living in Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Mexico and South America should now have access to online multiplayer, third-party video services and all the other reactivated features that returned this past Saturday.

Unfortunately, the flood of people who have made their first priority to change their password have overwhelmed both the PlayStation Network servers and their ISPs, leading to delays for password reset emails. If you requested a password reset and haven't heard back yet, Sony asks that you "please give it a bit of time to reach your email."

JoystiqPSN back in Europe and Australia, your password email may take some time originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 16 May 2011 09:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiaeuropemexiconew-zealandpasswordplaystationps3psnpsn-outage-2011south-americaMon, 16 May 2011 09:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Deus Ex: Human Revolution gets 'very special edition' in select territories]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/19/deus-ex-human-revolution-gets-very-special-edition-in-select/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/19/deus-ex-human-revolution-gets-very-special-edition-in-select/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/19/deus-ex-human-revolution-gets-very-special-edition-in-select/#comments Do you live in Europe, Australia, or New Zealand and long for a super fancy, ultra limited edition of Deus Ex: Human Revolution? Square Enix has announced plans for a "very limited Collector's Edition" to launch alongside the regular, old, boring and utterly normal edition when it arrives this summer.

The "very limited" iteration of Deus Ex comes packed with a "highly collectable" figure of protagonist Adam Jensen, the "Explosive Mission Pack" (which is also part of GameStop's pre-order incentive), a smattering of in-game weapons, 10,000 extra in-game credits, a "making of" DVD and soundtrack, and a 40-page art book. How much will all that "very limited" stuff cost you? Square's not saying just yet, though pricing and specifics on availability will be made clear "closer to launch."

Continue reading Deus Ex: Human Revolution gets 'very special edition' in select territories

JoystiqDeus Ex: Human Revolution gets 'very special edition' in select territories originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Apr 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiacollectors-editiondeus-ex-human-revolutioneidoseidos-interactiveeuropemicrosoftnew-zealandpcplaystationps3square-enixxboxTue, 19 Apr 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mortal Kombat receives R18 in New Zealand (which means it's coming out)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/09/mortal-kombat-receives-r18-in-new-zealand-which-means-its-comi/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/09/mortal-kombat-receives-r18-in-new-zealand-which-means-its-comi/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/09/mortal-kombat-receives-r18-in-new-zealand-which-means-its-comi/#comments Mortal Kombat may be combatting release issues in Australia, but the game is being officially allowed to pulverize faces (and everything else) across the water in New Zealand. The country's Office of Film and Literature Classification (OFLC) gave Mortal Kombat an R18 rating recently, which is to say the game's content is "objectionable except if the availability of the publication is restricted to persons who have attained the age of 18 years."

We imagine Kiwis responding to the classification by taking fistfulls of marmite and punching straight through box sets of Flight of the Conchords, while screaming "Get over here" in the general direction of WB Games Chicago. Or just quietly shouting "hooray!" One or the other.

JoystiqMortal Kombat receives R18 in New Zealand (which means it's coming out) originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Mar 2011 23:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftmortal-kombat-2011netherrealm-studiosnew-zealandoflcplaystationps3warner-bros-interactivewb-gameswb-games-chicagowbiexboxWed, 09 Mar 2011 23:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Shatter dev Sidhe increasing focus on download space in 2011]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/06/shatter-dev-sidhe-increasing-focus-on-download-space-in-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/06/shatter-dev-sidhe-increasing-focus-on-download-space-in-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/06/shatter-dev-sidhe-increasing-focus-on-download-space-in-2011/#comments Sidhe is best known recently for developing Shatter, a fast-paced brick-buster game that debuted on PlayStation Network in 2009. Praised for its crystalline presentation and entrancing soundtrack, Shatter updated the familiar mechanics of games like Arkanoid, and elevated the understated -- but certainly not small -- developer that's been at work in Wellington, New Zealand, since 1997.

As a self-published downloadable game, Shatter appears to be an anomaly when placed next to another of Sidhe's recent projects: Blood Drive, published by Activision in 2010. The automotive action game, which saw players running down zombies for sport (it's as good a reason as any), failed to find an appreciative audience, despite having a mixture of popular go-to game elements. But how do the makers of one of 2009's most praised puzzle games deliver a 41 on Metacritic just one year later?

Today, Sidhe is in the process of shaking off the remnants of that game, one of the many work for hire, licensed tasks it has undertaken for most of its life. Speed Racer, Jackass: The Game and Madagascar Kartz all came from the same workhorse. "What we are trying to do, given where retail in general is going, is continue to move towards being independent," said Mario Wynands, co-founder and managing director of Sidhe. "That is, run the studio on the basis of royalties and download revenue alone, as opposed to being somewhat reliant on third-party publishers. We are, I guess, reacting to the market, in line with the strategy we've had in place for a number of years now, which is ultimately weaning ourselves off work for hire."

As a result, Sidhe has ramped down and elected not to renew or transition contracts with vendors following the completion of Blood Drive for Activision. Wynands also confirmed to Joystiq that several full-time staff members have been let go since then -- "probably five or six people." (This is after the studio hired more in March 2010, bringing the staff count close to 120.)

Continue reading Shatter dev Sidhe increasing focus on download space in 2011

JoystiqShatter dev Sidhe increasing focus on download space in 2011 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Jan 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsipadiphonemario-wynandsmicrosoftmobilenew-zealandnintendopcplaystationps3psnpspshattersidhesonywiixblaxboxThu, 06 Jan 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New Zealand's TV3 apologizes to Sony with Marmite, Flight of the Conchords]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/04/new-zealands-tv3-apologizes-to-sony-with-marmite-flight-of-the/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/04/new-zealands-tv3-apologizes-to-sony-with-marmite-flight-of-the/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/04/new-zealands-tv3-apologizes-to-sony-with-marmite-flight-of-the/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The conflict between New Zealand's TV3 and Sony could have gone much differently than it did. Instead of suing TV3 into oblivion when it found out that the broadcaster had produced a commercial directly copying the PlayStation 3's "Montage" ad, Sony used the Kevin Butler persona to publicly absolve (and mock) TV3. In a PlayStation Blog post, Butler offered permission to copy all PS3 ads in exchange for "TV3's support in making the PS3 the OFFICIAL GAME CONSOLE OF NEW ZEALAND." And a Flight of the Conchords box set.

As if this whole story weren't cute enough, TV3 sent Sony a package containing not only the Conchords set, but other local treats -- and a plaque proclaiming PS3 the "official game console of Aotearoa." We'd never have believed it if we hadn't seen it ourselves: two media companies settling a dispute in a friendly, joking manner instead of litigation. Maybe every company should bring in a few fictional executives.

JoystiqNew Zealand's TV3 apologizes to Sony with Marmite, Flight of the Conchords originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Aug 2010 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AdvertisingCommercialsKevin-Butlernew-zealandplaystationps3SonyTV3Wed, 04 Aug 2010 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Kevin Butler commercial cloned in New Zealand]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/20/kevin-butler-commercial-cloned-in-new-zealand/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/20/kevin-butler-commercial-cloned-in-new-zealand/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/20/kevin-butler-commercial-cloned-in-new-zealand/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Whether you call it an homage or a rip-off, an ad produced by New Zealand's TV3 bears a striking similarity to one of Sony's US PlayStation 3 ads starring faux executive Kevin Butler. As noted by Buttonmasher, the two commercials include nearly the same dialogue, setting, reaction shots and ... well, everything except the same actors.

When ad agency Deutsch won the $150 million Sony account back in 2007, it had an uphill battle to change Sony's image following its, err, avant-garde advertisements under TBWA. The new agency succeeded with Butler, who has gone on to become a sensation -- and that's where this copy gets unique.

"It's rare to see a carbon copy of a U.S. commercial or campaign created by smaller players overseas," explains Tim Nudd, editor of AdFreak.com. "I think there's a healthy fear of getting caught and sued by the big guys. More common is the reverse -- a big U.S. marketer/agency ripping off unknown work from smaller players."

Potential examples of the reverse situation include companies like Apple, 3M and, funny enough, Sony itself with its Japanese "Gameface" ad. See for yourself how similar the two ads are, right after the break.

Continue reading Kevin Butler commercial cloned in New Zealand

JoystiqKevin Butler commercial cloned in New Zealand originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Jul 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Deutschkevin-butlernew-zealandplaystationps3TV3Tue, 20 Jul 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[One million Xbox 360s sold down under]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/21/one-million-xbox-360s-sold-down-under/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/21/one-million-xbox-360s-sold-down-under/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/21/one-million-xbox-360s-sold-down-under/#commentsMicrosoft's Australian site has announced that one million Xbox 360s have been sold in Australia and New Zealand so far. Japan hit that landmark only last year, and about eight million consoles have been sold in North America so far, according to the most recent estimates. Congrats, Aussies and, erm, Newzies!

To celebrate, Microsoft will be auctioning off a few special edition consoles through Konsoles for Kids with awkwardly-painted portraits of Australian celebrities on them, including Russell Crowe, comedy duo Hamish and Andy, and ... Kim Kardashian? We guess they're not all Australian then. What's the deal, Microsoft? Was Andrew Denton too busy? What if we want a console with Yahoo Serious painted on the side?

[Via VG247]

JoystiqOne million Xbox 360s sold down under originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Apr 2010 01:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiaconsolekonsoles-for-kidsmicrosoftnew-zealandone-millionsalesXbox-360Wed, 21 Apr 2010 01:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live Video Marketplace coming to 10 more countries 'this fall']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/xbox-live-video-marketplace-coming-to-10-more-countries-this-fa/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/xbox-live-video-marketplace-coming-to-10-more-countries-this-fa/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/xbox-live-video-marketplace-coming-to-10-more-countries-this-fa/#comments As far as we know, the kind of laziness which prevents you from visiting the nearest Blockbuster Video is a worldwide phenomenon. According to a press release (.doc link) dropped just in time for CES, Microsoft is catering to this global lethargy by opening up the Xbox Live Video Marketplace to ten more countries this fall: Denmark, Finland, Norway, Sweden, Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Austria, Australia and New Zealand.

Basically, if the Xbox Live Video Marketplace was playing Risk, it'd have a kickass lock on the Eastern Hemisphere.

JoystiqXbox Live Video Marketplace coming to 10 more countries 'this fall' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Jan 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiaaustriabelgiumces-2009denmarkeuropefinlandMicrosoftnetherlandsnew-zealandnorwayswedenswitzerlandvideo-marketplaceXbox-360xbox-liveThu, 07 Jan 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSN's Topatoi now available in Australia, New Zealand]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/29/psns-topatoi-now-available-in-australia-new-zealand/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/29/psns-topatoi-now-available-in-australia-new-zealand/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/29/psns-topatoi-now-available-in-australia-new-zealand/#comments
Australian and New Zealand gamers are in for a treat, as the adorable Topatoi is now available for purchase on the PlayStation Store. Pardon, Stateside PlayStation 3 owners? "What's Topatoi?" It's an adventure platformer currently available to European gamers, but not planned for a North America release until later this year.

If you hail from the place people think Flight of the Conchords are from, versus where they are actually from, the platformer is available for 15.95AUD or 18.9NZD, respectively. Those looking for more Topatoi action will be happy to hear the game's developer has confirmed that the second chapter in the saga will release later this year, via the PlayStation Europe Blog.

JoystiqPSN's Topatoi now available in Australia, New Zealand originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 29 Aug 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiaboolat-gamesdownloadabledownloadable-gamesnew-zealandplaystation-networkpsntopatoiSat, 29 Aug 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[360 hits 700K down under, Microsoft aiming for a million]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/26/360-hits-700k-down-under-microsoft-aiming-for-a-million/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/26/360-hits-700k-down-under-microsoft-aiming-for-a-million/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/26/360-hits-700k-down-under-microsoft-aiming-for-a-million/#comments
Microsoft announced that the Xbox 360 has sold 700,000 in the land of g'days and kiwis, with the green eye of the console fixing its gaze on a million sales by Christmas. According to Gamespot, the company's manager for Australia and New Zealand labeled the console as the fastest growing in the region -- not dissimilar to statements made by US execs about their own region.

The company didn't hint at any price or console changes for the Xbox 360 in the region. Execs are "confident" that they'll reach the million goal with the "console's current price point."

Joystiq360 hits 700K down under, Microsoft aiming for a million originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 Aug 2009 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiabusinessnew-zealandsalesWed, 26 Aug 2009 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony New Zealand release list dates Fat Princess for June 18]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/12/new-zealand-sony-release-list-dates-fat-princess-for-june-18/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/12/new-zealand-sony-release-list-dates-fat-princess-for-june-18/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/12/new-zealand-sony-release-list-dates-fat-princess-for-june-18/#comments
We realize that New Zealand is like, a bajillion miles away, but we thought we'd bring your attention to a Kiwi-bound PlayStation release schedule, which finally provides a firm release date for Titan Studios' upcoming PSN title, Fat Princess. According to the list, PS3 owners can begin strengthening soul-crushingly negative obesity stereotypes when the game drops June 18. We still don't know whether the States will see a simultaneous release, but it certainly fits nicely within our previously promised summer launch window.

Gallery: Fat Princess (3/24/09)

JoystiqSony New Zealand release list dates Fat Princess for June 18 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 12 Apr 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fat-princessnew-zealandpsnrelease-datetitan-studiosSun, 12 Apr 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Red Xbox 360 Elite mentioned in MS press release]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/19/red-xbox-360-elite-mentioned-in-ms-press-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/19/red-xbox-360-elite-mentioned-in-ms-press-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/19/red-xbox-360-elite-mentioned-in-ms-press-release/#comments
In a quest to end the bitterness between the Xbox 360 and the color red, Microsoft appears to be reconciling the two in a new Xbox 360 Elite SKU. The unannounced product has stumbled into the public eye much in the same way that many of Microsoft's secrets do -- first a rumor, then a retailer inventory listing and then an innocent mention in a New Zealand-bound press release.

Alright, maybe that last one doesn't quite adhere to the formula, but according to Kotaku, an MS New Zealand promotion for the upcoming release of Halo Wars -- buy a 360, get a free copy of the game! -- explicitly excluded "the Red Xbox 360 Elite console which is exclusive to EB games." You know, that one that hasn't been announced, and that certainly won't be announced "at this time."

Though mention of the system has been stricken from the online version of the press release, we'd be immensely disappointed if the system, whether tied to Resident Evil 5 or not, failed to make an appearance. We can't let all these Red Rig of Death jokes go to waste!

Source -- Red Xbox 360 Mentioned Officially by Microsoft
Source -- MS quiet on red Xbox 360 rumors
Source -- Halo Wars Promotion

JoystiqRed Xbox 360 Elite mentioned in MS press release originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Feb 2009 11:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>MicrosoftNew-ZealandRed-Xbox-360rumorXbox-360Xbox-360-EliteThu, 19 Feb 2009 11:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Silent Hill: Homecoming's Australian edits detailed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/14/silent-hill-homecomings-australian-edits-detailed/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/14/silent-hill-homecomings-australian-edits-detailed/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/14/silent-hill-homecomings-australian-edits-detailed/#commentsFiled under:


We reported last week that Silent Hill: Homecoming was finally classified by Australia's OFLC after having been refused classification when it was first submitted last year. It was reported that changes had to be made to the game in order to be classified MA15+, the highest classification offered to video games by the OFLC. Now, thanks to Edge, we know the nature of those changes. Atari, which will distribute the game Down Under, told Edge that the majority of the changes are being made to the game's cutscenes, in which "new camera angles and techniques will be used to reduce the impact of the unclassifiable material." At least some of the "unclassifiable" material, if you'd like to know, was related to the improper and grisly use of a power drill. Atari assures Edge that the changes only apply to "some scenes" and that "the original storyline remains unchanged."

Keep in mind that the wording of the article implies that some changes may have been made to actual gameplay, though the nature of any such changes is unclear. Meanwhile, Atari stated that the New Zealand version of the title has received an R rating and that it will not receive any edits.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqSilent Hill: Homecoming's Australian edits detailed originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Jan 2009 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atariaustraliakonaminew-zealandsilent-hillsilent-hill-homecomingWed, 14 Jan 2009 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PAL regions joining World of Goo tomorrow]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/18/pal-regions-joining-world-of-goo-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/18/pal-regions-joining-world-of-goo-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/18/pal-regions-joining-world-of-goo-tomorrow/#commentsFiled under: ,



We called it, and now those lovely 2D Boys have confirmed it: World of Goo will be rocking Europe, Australia, and New Zealand's WiiWare service this coming Friday, a.k.a. tomorrow! Eeee!

You may recall that the puzzler endured a rocky road leading up to its Euro/Aussie debut. At one point, plans were afoot to launch the PAL version in something known in the olden days as a "box." Fortunately, the outcry over that decision caused 2D Boy pair Ron and Kyle to opt for a WiiWare release, and we'll be reaping the benefits of that noble decision in just a few hours!

See also: 2D Boy reflecting on World of Goo's success with insignificant, meaningless us!

JoystiqPAL regions joining World of Goo tomorrow originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 18 Dec 2008 15:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2d-boyaustraliaeuropenew-zealandpuzzleworld-of-gooThu, 18 Dec 2008 15:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Official Nintendo Magazine launching down under]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/12/official-nintendo-magazine-launching-down-under/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/12/official-nintendo-magazine-launching-down-under/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/12/official-nintendo-magazine-launching-down-under/#commentsFiled under:

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

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

[Via press release]

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiafuturefuture-publishingmagazinemedianew-zealandofficial-nintendo-magazineonmWed, 12 Nov 2008 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Nintendo of Australia to solve New Zealand's distribution problems]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/21/rumor-nintendo-of-australia-to-solve-new-zealands-distribution/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/21/rumor-nintendo-of-australia-to-solve-new-zealands-distribution/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/21/rumor-nintendo-of-australia-to-solve-new-zealands-distribution/#commentsFiled under:

We recently fretted over neglected Nintendo fans in New Zealand, as the country's Nintendo distributor had to file for receivorship (effectively taking them out of them distribution picture). Now, though, it seems that there's a light at the end of the tunnel for the Kiwis, and the loss of Softprint Interactive might not be all doom and gloom.

When we last mentioned the issue, we hoped that Nintendo would step up and take care of things themselves, but we never thought they actually would. Yet, current rumors are putting our doubts to rest. While an Australian company called All Interactive Distribution seems to be taking up things on the distributing end, Nintendo of Australia will supposedly support them and promote Nintendo products.

While this is certainly good news for Kiwis, we think it's also good news for Nintendo, as the company has had trouble gaining a foothold in New Zealand.

[Via GoNintendo]

JoystiqRumor: Nintendo of Australia to solve New Zealand's distribution problems originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 Jul 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-interactive-distributionaustraliadistributiondistributornew-zealandnintendo-of-australiasoftprint-interactiveMon, 21 Jul 2008 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GameStop officially acquires NZ's Gamesman]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/gamestop-officially-acquires-nzs-gamesman/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/gamestop-officially-acquires-nzs-gamesman/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/gamestop-officially-acquires-nzs-gamesman/#commentsFiled under:


Even the Kiwis were no match for the armed and fully operational GameStop empire as it acquired New Zealand's largest independent gaming chain. GameDaily reports that New Zealand's The Gamesman will be absorbed into the GameStop collective and bring the company's presence in the country to 38 stores. This news confirms rumors from last month of The Gamesman's demise.

On the bright side, Phil McPhee, general manager of The Gamesman, says the move will "enhance the service and experience for customers." Wow, Gamesman's customer service must have been awful! Good thing it got bought out by GameStop.

JoystiqGameStop officially acquires NZ's Gamesman originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Jul 2008 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acquisitionacquisitionsgamesmangamestopnew-zealandWed, 02 Jul 2008 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Wii trails behind competitors in New Zealand]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/the-wii-trails-behind-competitors-in-new-zealand/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/the-wii-trails-behind-competitors-in-new-zealand/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/the-wii-trails-behind-competitors-in-new-zealand/#commentsFiled under:

Apparently, Korea isn't the only place on the globe where the Wii is selling poorly. Yet even in Korea, the Wii isn't the bottom-feeder of this generation -- not so in New Zealand. Nintendo's great white hope is the country's last-place current-gen console, selling only 16,000 units compared to the PS3's 34,000 and the 360's 45,000.

Perhaps the Kiwis wouldn't be so adverse to the Wii if Nintendo actually showed some love to the neglected country. In the current climate, though, New Zealanders are distributor-less. Phoenix Distribution is picking up the slack for Activision's games in the region, but according to the company's founder, "Nintendo is a lemon." To top it all off, Nintendo doesn't even bother advertising the console to its beloved casual crowd, making the Wii a system for the Nintendo hardcore only. Obviously, the distribution problem needs to be fixed, but will it be?

If any of you Kiwis want to shed some light on the situation, feel free to do so in the comments.

[Via NeoGAF]

JoystiqThe Wii trails behind competitors in New Zealand originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Jul 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisiondistributiondistributornew-zealandphoenix-distributionps3softprint-interactivexbox-360Wed, 02 Jul 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: GameStop taking over New Zealand's Gamesman]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/rumor-gamestop-taking-over-new-zealands-gamesman/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/rumor-gamestop-taking-over-new-zealands-gamesman/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/rumor-gamestop-taking-over-new-zealands-gamesman/#commentsFiled under:


Geekpulp reports that New Zealand's largest "100% KIWI owned and managed" gaming store has accepted the warm embrace of the GameStop overlords. The site reports it has been "unofficially" told that the eight Gamesman locations will be converted into EB Games (GameStop) stores by late July.

The site goes on to say that the eight Gamesman locations already have EB Games stores in the area, though the staff have been told that there won't be any job losses. Resistance is futile dear Kiwis, just accept GameStop as the rest of the world has. Now, to enjoy some soylent green for lunch, generously donated by GameStop.

JoystiqRumor: GameStop taking over New Zealand's Gamesman originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Jun 2008 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamesmangamestopnew-zealandMon, 23 Jun 2008 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[New Zealand: Nintendo's new red-headed stepchild]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/new-zealand-nintendos-new-red-headed-stepchild/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/new-zealand-nintendos-new-red-headed-stepchild/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/new-zealand-nintendos-new-red-headed-stepchild/#commentsFiled under:


Those of you in the UK or Australia can complain all you want about how Nintendo doesn't love you, but New Zealand is probably the most deprived English-speaking region out there -- or at least, it will be.

Softprint Interactive, the company that distributes Nintendo and other companies' games in the land of the kiwis, has recently filed for receivership (aka bankruptcy). Hopefully, someone will step up (perhaps Nintendo themselves) to fix this distribution disaster, otherwise New Zealand might be in trouble. Activision will also have to find a new distributor in the country, as Softprint was responsible for their games as well. Yikes-- we hope none of you kiwis were looking forward to Guitar Hero: On Tour.

[Via Go|Nintendo]

JoystiqNew Zealand: Nintendo's new red-headed stepchild originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Jun 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisiondistributiondistributornew-zealandsoftprint-interactiveMon, 02 Jun 2008 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Zealand warns parents about illegally buying GTA IV]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/05/new-zealand-warns-parents-about-illegally-buying-gta-iv/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/05/new-zealand-warns-parents-about-illegally-buying-gta-iv/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/05/new-zealand-warns-parents-about-illegally-buying-gta-iv/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


New Zealand's Office of Film and Literature had to reiterate this week that store clerks can't sell Grand Theft Auto IV to parents purchasing it for their children. The New Zealand Herald reports the office had to repeat itself after receiving calls from clerks who didn't know what to do when a parent "demanded" to buy GTA IV with their 14-year-old in tow.

GTA IV is rated R18 by the New Zealand government and it's illegal to make it available to anyone under that age. In New Zealand, even if it's their own kid, the adult could be jailed for 90 days or pay $10,000 fine; however, the law has never been enforced.

[Via GamePolitics]

JoystiqNew Zealand warns parents about illegally buying GTA IV originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 May 2008 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>grand-theft-auto-ivgrandtheftautoivgta-ivgtaivnew-zealandnew-zealand-heraldPS3Xbox-360Mon, 05 May 2008 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Today's most vulgar videos: Jam Sessions' instant rockstar]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/19/todays-most-vulgar-videos-jam-sessions-instant-rockstar/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/19/todays-most-vulgar-videos-jam-sessions-instant-rockstar/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/19/todays-most-vulgar-videos-jam-sessions-instant-rockstar/#commentsFiled under: , ,


The North American marketing for DS guitar simulator Jam Sessions has been pretty low-key, comprised of a MySpace page, uninspired print ads, and a bevy of videos showing real artists using the non-game to play fake guitar.

Off the charts, then, are New Zealand's excellent television spots for the title, which emphasize how having Jam Sessions in your DS repertoire can transform you into an instant rockstar. According to the ads, being an instant rockstar involves hitting on your buxom aunt, and cursing out your mum for baking you the wrong birthday cake. Honestly, the things those New Zealanders can get away with on television!

If we haven't made it abundantly clear, these videos are definitely not-safe-for-work material. Catch all the raunchy, raucous action after the break (and not a single shot of gameplay, either!).

Continue reading Today's most vulgar videos: Jam Sessions' instant rockstar

JoystiqToday's most vulgar videos: Jam Sessions' instant rockstar originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Nov 2007 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DShottest-videohottestvideojam-sessionsjamsessionsmarketingmusicnew-zealandnewzealandnsfwubisoftvotdMon, 19 Nov 2007 00:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Promotional Consideration: Party Like a Rock Star]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/18/promotional-consideration-party-like-a-rock-star/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/18/promotional-consideration-party-like-a-rock-star/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/18/promotional-consideration-party-like-a-rock-star/#commentsFiled under:



Promotional Consideration is a weekly feature about the Nintendo DS advertisements you usually flip past, change the channel on, or just tune out.

This marks the third time we've featured Ubisoft's Jam Sessions in our Promotional Consideration column, but these latest ads for the New Zealand market are the best ones yet. We're not going to ruin their illicit content for you before you've had a chance to watch these not-safe-for-work commercials yourselves, so hurry past the break and see what all the kids are nattering about at recess.

Continue reading Promotional Consideration: Party Like a Rock Star

JoystiqPromotional Consideration: Party Like a Rock Star originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 18 Nov 2007 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>incestjam-sessionsjamsessionsnew-zealandnsfwplatopromotional-considerationpromotionalconsiderationrock-starubisoftSun, 18 Nov 2007 14:00:00 EST