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[Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows this summer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/teenage-mutant-ninja-turtles-out-of-the-shadows-this-summer/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/teenage-mutant-ninja-turtles-out-of-the-shadows-this-summer/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/teenage-mutant-ninja-turtles-out-of-the-shadows-this-summer/#comments

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows will shell shock digital distribution networks this summer. DigitalSpy posted the trailer for the downloadable game coming to PC, PSN and XBLA in several months. The game will offer four-player online co-op where players can become any of the heroes in a half shell.

TMNT: Out of the Shadows appears to be the first in a three-game deal between Activision and Nickelodeon. The turtles used to be in the hands of Ubisoft, but that relationship seems to have splintered.

Gallery: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows

JoystiqTeenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows this summer originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Mar 2013 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Activisionmicrosoftnickelodeonplaystationps3red-fly-studioRed-Fly-Studiosteenage-mutant-ninja-turtlesteenage-mutant-ninja-turtles-out-of-the-shadowstmnttmnt-out-of-the-shadowsxboxMon, 04 Mar 2013 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Activision and Nickelodeon team up for 3 TMNT games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/07/activision-and-nickelodeon-team-up-for-3-tmnt-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/07/activision-and-nickelodeon-team-up-for-3-tmnt-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/07/activision-and-nickelodeon-team-up-for-3-tmnt-games/#comments Activision and Nickelodeon team up for 3 TMNT gamesThe Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles have a new home in video game publishing. Previously in the hands of Ubisoft, the Turtles now rest with Activision thanks to a new multi-year deal inked with the TMNT owner Nickelodeon. The deal will see Activision publish three games based on the new animated series (pictured), with the first game slated for this summer.

No details were offered about the games themselves, including available platforms, though they promise to "take gamers through interactive environments and action-packed adventures that truly capture the essence, tone and exciting elements of the Turtles."

Presumably, a lot of Foot Clan soldiers are in for a world of hurt. And Donatello will be the best. Obviously.

Continue reading Activision and Nickelodeon team up for 3 TMNT games

JoystiqActivision and Nickelodeon team up for 3 TMNT games originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Feb 2013 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionnickelodeonrelease-dateteenage-mutant-ninja-turtlestmntThu, 07 Feb 2013 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Nick Arcade was a technical marvel]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/26/nick-arcade-was-a-technical-marvel/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/26/nick-arcade-was-a-technical-marvel/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/26/nick-arcade-was-a-technical-marvel/#comments Nick Arcade was ahead of its timeIf you're reading this website and grew up in the early 90s, there's a good chance you remember Nickelodeon's video-game-infused game show, Nick Arcade. What you might not know is that the final segment of the show, in which contestants went "inside" of an actual video game, was incredibly advanced for its time.

Splitsider put together a lengthy history of the program earlier this year and, while we missed it at the time, it's still fascinating reading. For instance, when it was produced, Nick Arcade utilized the "largest blue screen set-up in existence," which occupied roughly half of the show's 10,000 square foot sound stage. Throw in some software with magical "edge-detection" technology that could essentially turn a human being into a game sprite, and Nick Arcade was born.

For a (very exhaustive) look at the campy - and, it turns out, very innovative - show, head over to Splitsider.

JoystiqNick Arcade was a technical marvel originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Jul 2012 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>historynick-arcadenickelodeontvThu, 26 Jul 2012 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox adding Nickelodeon, Paramount, Machinima, Univision, NHL and more ESPN [update: full list of new apps]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/04/xbox-adding-nickelodeon-paramount-machinima-univision-nhl-an/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/04/xbox-adding-nickelodeon-paramount-machinima-univision-nhl-an/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/04/xbox-adding-nickelodeon-paramount-machinima-univision-nhl-an/#comments Xbox adding Nickelodeon, Paramount, Machinima, Univision, NHL and more ESPN
Microsoft hopes to "double" its entertainment offerings over the next year, highlighting four partners during its pre-E3 media briefing: Nickelodeon, Paramount, Machinima, and Univisiona.

Microsoft is also adding the NBA and NHL to its content partners, specifically citing the latter as launching next season. Additionally, ESPN's app will be updated to include 24-hour programming from other ESPN channels: ESPN 1, ESPN 2, and ESPN U. Currently, the ESPN app on Xbox 360 only features content from ESPN 3.

Update: Here's the full list of entertainment apps planned for the service.

JoystiqXbox adding Nickelodeon, Paramount, Machinima, Univision, NHL and more ESPN [update: full list of new apps] originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Jun 2012 13:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2012ESPNESPN-2ESPN-3MachinimamicrosoftNHLNHL-Game-CenternickelodeonParamountUnivisionxboxMon, 04 Jun 2012 13:05:00 EST<![CDATA[The Rabbids become TV stars in 2013]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/06/the-rabbids-become-tv-stars-in-2013/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/06/the-rabbids-become-tv-stars-in-2013/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/06/the-rabbids-become-tv-stars-in-2013/#comments Minigames too involved for you? Soon Ubisoft's Raving Rabbids will be able to yell at you without a single waggle on your part. Ubisoft Motion Pictures is producing a series of 78 seven-minute CG cartoons featuring the rude critters, which Nickelodeon will bundle into 26 half-hours for broadcast "worldwide" in 2013. Those should allow you to gauge (to the minute) your tolerance for the Rabbids.

The deal excludes France, where France Télévisions Distribution will offer DVD and Video on Demand of the show, alongside episodes broadcast on France 3. And now, because we haven't said it yet: daaaahhhhhh!

[Image: Raving Rabbids Alive and Kicking for Xbox 360]

Continue reading The Rabbids become TV stars in 2013

JoystiqThe Rabbids become TV stars in 2013 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Oct 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nickelodeonrabbidsraving-rabbidstvubisoftubisoft-motion-picturesThu, 06 Oct 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Nicktoons MLB seriously combines Nicktoons and Major League Baseball [update 1]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/02/nicktoons-mlb-seriously-combines-nicktoons-and-major-league-base/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/02/nicktoons-mlb-seriously-combines-nicktoons-and-major-league-base/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/02/nicktoons-mlb-seriously-combines-nicktoons-and-major-league-base/#comments Ever wonder how Stimpy would fare against Robinson Cano from the New York Yankees on the baseball field? All the time, right? 2K Play is giving you the chance to experience this ultimate matchup, while also seeing the athletic prowess of characters like Fanboy, Spongebob, Chum Chum and even Invader Zim.

Nicktoons MLB for Kinect, Wii, and DS allows you to play baseball as a bunch of Nicktoons characters, as well as a roster of real, human Major League Baseball players from all 30 teams. High Voltage is developing the two console versions, and Black Lantern is working on the DS version, all due this summer.

Nice to see all those characters from cancelled shows getting work!

Update: Final, final update: you actually can play as both the Nicktoons characters and the MLB players. 2K Play cleared that up with us just now.

Continue reading Nicktoons MLB seriously combines Nicktoons and Major League Baseball [update 1]

JoystiqNicktoons MLB seriously combines Nicktoons and Major League Baseball [update 1] originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 May 2011 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-playdsinvader-zimkinectmicrosoftnickelodeonnicktoonsnicktoons-mlbnintendospongebob-squarepantswiixboxMon, 02 May 2011 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[SpongeBob SquigglePants migrates to 3DS this May]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/spongebob-squigglepants-migrates-to-3ds-this-may/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/spongebob-squigglepants-migrates-to-3ds-this-may/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/spongebob-squigglepants-migrates-to-3ds-this-may/#comments The most absorbent cartoon character ever (sorry, Towelie) is getting his own game for Nintendo 3DS. SpongeBob SquigglePants, due this May, places the porous protagonist in what publisher THQ calls "nanogames" -- we're guessing they're something along the line of WarioWare's similarly monikered microgames.

Like its console counterpart due April 12, the title will rely on hand-drawn input, although the Wii's uDraw GameTablet version features "totally unique" gameplay. This one's obviously in 3D -- though we wonder if that extends all the way to the live-action story sequences hosted by Patchy the Pirate. That might just be too much.

Continue reading SpongeBob SquigglePants migrates to 3DS this May

JoystiqSpongeBob SquigglePants migrates to 3DS this May originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 Mar 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsminigame-compilationnickelodeonnintendorelease-datespongebob-squarepantsspongebob-squigglepantsthqThu, 24 Mar 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nickelodeon's 'Best Player' TV movie to cause extreme wahjah on March 12]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/24/nickelodeons-best-player-tv-movie-to-cause-extreme-wahjah-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/24/nickelodeons-best-player-tv-movie-to-cause-extreme-wahjah-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/24/nickelodeons-best-player-tv-movie-to-cause-extreme-wahjah-on/#comments There's a possibility in the next few weeks you may be in a position where Nickelodeon is on a television in front of you and there's nothing you can do to change the situation. As such, you may find yourself watching the debut of "Best Player," a Nickelodeon TV movie starring Jennette McCurdy and Jerry Trainor -- better known as "Sam Puckett" and "Spencer Shay," stars of iCarly. Perhaps you've heard of it? We're here to warn you now.

In the film, McCurdy and Trainor play "online video game junkies who inadvertently learn that the real world can be just as exciting and rewarding as the virtual one." More specifically, Trainor takes on the role of "Quincy" ("simply known as 'Q' by fellow gaming enthusiasts"), a "cyber multi-player athlete online" who must win a game tournament in order to buy his parents' house. The only problem? A worthy adversary named "Prodigy" (McCurdy) "who threatens to annihilate him." It's also worth pointing out that the competition going down in the film isn't on an existing game console, but rather a hybrid of a motion-sensing glove and Wii Remote ripoff (seen above, and larger below the break).

As the film's announcement spells out, "Quincy's plan to beat out his nemesis gets complicated when his relationship with Chris [Prodigy] and her mother takes an unforeseen turn." What will become of the tournament? And of Q?! Tune in to Nickelodeon on March 12 at 8PM EST to see what becomes of this messy situation.

Continue reading Nickelodeon's 'Best Player' TV movie to cause extreme wahjah on March 12

JoystiqNickelodeon's 'Best Player' TV movie to cause extreme wahjah on March 12 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 Feb 2011 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best-playericarlyjennette-mccurdyjerry-trainormovienickelodeontv-moviewahjahThu, 24 Feb 2011 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[THQ soaks up multi-year SpongeBob rights, includes 3DS game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/18/thq-soaks-up-multi-year-spongebob-rights-includes-3ds-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/18/thq-soaks-up-multi-year-spongebob-rights-includes-3ds-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/18/thq-soaks-up-multi-year-spongebob-rights-includes-3ds-game/#commentsFiled under: , ,

He may never be a Metacritic standout, but SpongeBob SquarePants has won the hearts of millions of little ones -- it doesn't matter what we think about his games. Having shipped 29 million copies of pure SpongeBob gold since 2002, THQ isn't about to let the money-maker off the hook. The publisher has renewed its partnership with Nickelodeon for multi-year rights to develop and release SpongeBob titles across major platforms and distribution channels.

The first game under the new agreement is being developed for 3DS, Kinect and THQ's own uDraw GameTablet for Wii. It will be released next year, and you'll probably have to buy it (and one of those new technologies) if you've got a kid between ages 2 and 11.

JoystiqTHQ soaks up multi-year SpongeBob rights, includes 3DS game originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Oct 2010 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdsgametabletkinectlicensingmicrosoftnickelodeonnintendoplaystationps3psnpspsonyspongebobspongebob-squarepantsthqudrawwiiwiiwarexblaxboxxbox-liveMon, 18 Oct 2010 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[2K Play announces Nickelodeon Fit, bringing exer-fun to the children]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/28/2k-play-announces-nickelodeon-fit/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/28/2k-play-announces-nickelodeon-fit/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/28/2k-play-announces-nickelodeon-fit/#commentsFiled under: , ,

With the recent reveal of Nickelodeon Fit, 2K Play looks to capitalize on the still-raging exergaming craze in a fairly unorthodox way. The Wii-exclusive is a youth-oriented, Balance Board-supported title that features characters from Nickelodeon cartoons, including Dora the Explorer, Go, Diego, Go!, Ni-Hao, Kai-lan and The Backyardigans. The game's young players will participate in context appropriate exercises, such as pogo-sticking with Dora (which we all know is the most efficient method for blasting your core).

Scoff as you might, but we don't think this sounds like too terrible an idea. If we had access to an exercise game when we were kids featuring Rocko, Ren, Stimpy and Doug, we probably wouldn't have received a "Laughable" rating on our Presidential Physical Fitness Test.

Joystiq2K Play announces Nickelodeon Fit, bringing exer-fun to the children originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Jun 2010 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-Games2k-playbalance-boardHigh-Voltage-SoftwarenickelodeonNickelodeon-FitnintendoTake-TwowiiMon, 28 Jun 2010 14:29:00 EST<![CDATA[OMG! Activision and Nickelodeon developing a game based on iCarly]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/13/omg-activision-and-nickelodeon-developing-a-game-based-on-icarly/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/13/omg-activision-and-nickelodeon-developing-a-game-based-on-icarly/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/13/omg-activision-and-nickelodeon-developing-a-game-based-on-icarly/#comments
How to fully enjoy this post:

1. Grab the nearest preteen girl. (If you're not in your home, please ask permission before grabbing random preteens.)
2. Insert earplugs.
3. Tell the aforementioned girl that Activision is making a video game for Wii and DS with Nickelodeon based on the network's iCarly, and that it will allow her to make her own episodes of the show through the magic of minigames.
4. Remove earphones.
5. Repair squeal-shattered windows, champagne flutes.
6. Look totally cool to said preteen for at least 15 minutes.

JoystiqOMG! Activision and Nickelodeon developing a game based on iCarly originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 May 2009 10:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionDSicarlynickelodeonNintendoWiiWed, 13 May 2009 10:10:00 EST<![CDATA[VH1 and Nickelodeon join PlayStation Store, first episode of KINGS free]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/19/vh1-and-nickelodeon-join-playstation-store-first-episode-of-kin/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/19/vh1-and-nickelodeon-join-playstation-store-first-episode-of-kin/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/19/vh1-and-nickelodeon-join-playstation-store-first-episode-of-kin/#comments The PlayStation Network video service has been open for about eight months now, and it continues to grow. Users will find an expanded selection today, with two new partners joining the service: VH1 and Nickelodeon. Now PS3 and PSP owners will be able to download Avatar, iCarly, Invader Zim, SpongeBob SquarePants, Confessions of a Teen Idol, Sober House, and more. As usual, SD episodes cost $1.99 each.

In addition to the new content providers, NBC and PlayStation have teamed up to provide the pilot episode of NBC's new series, KINGS, free for PS3 and PSP owners. Simply visit the PlayStation Store and you'll be able to download the 80 minute debut in SD or HD for free.

See the top video downloads of the week after the break.

Continue reading VH1 and Nickelodeon join PlayStation Store, first episode of KINGS free

JoystiqVH1 and Nickelodeon join PlayStation Store, first episode of KINGS free originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Mar 2009 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatarconfessions-of-a-teen-idolicarlyinvader-zimkingsnbcnickelodeonplaystation-networkplaystation-storespongbobspongbob-squarepantsvhiThu, 19 Mar 2009 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Casual game companies confident about their chances in the recession]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/30/casual-game-companies-confident-about-their-chances-in-the-reces/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/30/casual-game-companies-confident-about-their-chances-in-the-reces/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/30/casual-game-companies-confident-about-their-chances-in-the-reces/#commentsFiled under: ,


Casualgaming.biz asked a who's who of casual games about how they felt the business would get by during the current financial horribleness. As it turns out, the polled companies expect to either weather the crisis or even benefit from it.

A representative for PopCap said "When economic times are tough, the most broadly appealing, cost-effective forms of entertainment tend to not only survive - but thrive." This sentiment was echoed by the CEO of Oberon Media. Nickelodeon's Dave Williams, however, sees problems for companies who "need access to outside capital and high valuations to fund growth and investment and/or haven't reached profitability and need cash to fund existing operations." In other words, companies who rely on others' money to make their games.

Not that we're Industry Analysts, but we fully expect the casual games industry to do well during this recession. It's pretty simple: these companies make video games -- often very enjoyable ones -- that do not cost sixty dollars.

JoystiqCasual game companies confident about their chances in the recession originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 Jan 2009 04:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casual-gamesnickelodeonoberon-mediapopcappopcap-gamesrecessionFri, 30 Jan 2009 04:30:00 EST<![CDATA[CES 2009: MTV Networks adding 2000 hours of programming to PS Store]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/08/ces-2009-mtv-networks-adding-2000-hours-of-programming-to-ps-st/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/08/ces-2009-mtv-networks-adding-2000-hours-of-programming-to-ps-st/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/08/ces-2009-mtv-networks-adding-2000-hours-of-programming-to-ps-st/#commentsFiled under:

The PlayStation Network Video Delivery Service will be getting a big boost from a new partner: MTV Networks. While MTV Networks includes the well-known "music" channel, it also includes VH1, Nickelodeon, COMEDY CENTRAL, Spike, Logo, CMT, The N, TV Land and Atom. Some shows to be added to the PlayStation Store include MTV's The City, COMEDY CENTRAL's South Park, Nickelodeon's SpongeBob SquarePants and VH1's Rock of Love Bus with Bret Michaels.

"We're thrilled to add content from MTV Networks to our line up, it's a perfect fit for the PlayStation demographic, one of the most coveted audiences in entertainment today," said Peter Dille, Senior Vice President of Marketing and PlayStation Network, SCEA. "Combined with the superior technology of the PS3 and PSP, the PlayStation Network's video delivery service truly provides consumers the best and most comprehensive content on demand from an incredible line up of entertainment brands to enjoy at home or on-the-go."

"From Nickelodeon to TV Land and everywhere in between, MTV Networks' brands feature some of the most popular shows and some of the hottest stars for almost every conceivable demo," said Greg Clayman, Executive Vice President, Digital Distribution and Business Development, MTV Networks. "By making our diverse content lineup available through the PlayStation Network, we're giving PlayStation users instant access to hundreds of hours of our very best programming in the comfort of their own living rooms."

JoystiqCES 2009: MTV Networks adding 2000 hours of programming to PS Store originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Jan 2009 13:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cesces-2009ces2009comedy-centralmtvmtv-networksnickelodeonps3south-parkspikespongebob-squarepantsvh1Thu, 08 Jan 2009 13:20:00 EST<![CDATA[EA's Board of Directors breathes in Oxygen founder]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/07/eas-board-of-directors-breathes-in-oxygen-founder/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/07/eas-board-of-directors-breathes-in-oxygen-founder/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/07/eas-board-of-directors-breathes-in-oxygen-founder/#commentsFiled under: ,

Geraldine Laybourne, the founder of women's cable television channel Oxygen, has joined the Board of Directors at Electronic Arts. Prior to creating television programs that pander to the fairer sex, Laybourne also worked for Nickelodeon, where she was instrumental in launching the station's window into the past that is Nick at Night.

While it's pure guesswork as to whether this move was more driven by Laybourne's business savvy or EA's continued interest in putting games in front of women, families and tweens, we imagine that both played a vital role in getting the TV exec to hop on board.

JoystiqEA's Board of Directors breathes in Oxygen founder originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 07 Nov 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualeaelectronic-artselectronicartsGeraldine-LaybourneGeraldineLaybournenickelodeonoxygenwomenFri, 07 Nov 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New release dates for THQ games including Lock's Quest]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/new-games-and-new-release-dates-for-thq-games-including-locks-q/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/new-games-and-new-release-dates-for-thq-games-including-locks-q/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/new-games-and-new-release-dates-for-thq-games-including-locks-q/#commentsFiled under:

Gamefly's DS listings have been updated with a bunch of tentative release dates. A bunch of them are THQ games, leading us to believe that the rental service received some kind of communication from the publisher -- which makes the dates more believable.

Lock's Quest, the new strategy/action/tower-defense game from Drawn to Life developers 5th Cell, is listed for September 17. The Nickelodeon stuff has dates too, if you're interested (Drawn to Life: SpongeBob SquarePants Edition September 24, Naked Brothers Band October 15, Tak Mojo Mistake, SpongeBob: Globs of Doom, Back to the Barnyard: Cowlympics all October 22).

Our Gamefly search has also revealed that THQ has picked up Mikoishi Studios' Drop Cast (website here) for U.S. release. According to the listing, it'll be out October 14.

JoystiqNew release dates for THQ games including Lock's Quest originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 May 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5th-celldropcastlocks-questnickelodeonspongebobStrategythqTue, 20 May 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[THQ announces a bunch of Nickelodeon stuff, for good reason]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/06/thq-announces-a-bunch-of-nickelodeon-stuff-for-good-reason/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/06/thq-announces-a-bunch-of-nickelodeon-stuff-for-good-reason/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/06/thq-announces-a-bunch-of-nickelodeon-stuff-for-good-reason/#commentsFiled under:

THQ has announced that their longtime Nickelodeon licensing agreement has resulted in $1 billion in sales and 50 million games sold. That goes a long way towards explaining why they think it's a good idea to release a game based on The Naked Brothers Band (though we would have preferred the Naked Brothers' producers' other show).

The press release went on to announce 5 more Nickelodeon-based projects. Many of the games are Wii/PS2/DS multiplatform, but Drawn to Life: SpongeBob SquarePants and Back at the Barnyard: Slop Bucket Games are DS-exclusive, and the DS is getting a different Tak game from the other platforms. Score. The new announcements include:
  • The Naked Brothers Band: The Videogame
  • Drawn to Life: SpongeBob SquarePants
  • Tak Mojo Mistake
  • SpongeBob SquarePants featuring Nicktoons: Globs of Doom
  • Avatar - The Last Airbender: Into the Inferno

JoystiqTHQ announces a bunch of Nickelodeon stuff, for good reason originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 May 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatarnickelodeonspongebobtakthqTue, 06 May 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[THQ's Nickelodeon games surpass $1 billion in sales]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/05/thqs-nickelodeon-games-surpass-1-billion-in-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/05/thqs-nickelodeon-games-surpass-1-billion-in-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/05/thqs-nickelodeon-games-surpass-1-billion-in-sales/#commentsFiled under:

naked bros
Hell, we imagine, might be a place where you're forced to plug The Naked Brothers Band art assets into the Random Kids Game Generator(R) year after year in the labyrinthine basement of some corporate complex, right until the bros age into drug-riddled obscurity and it's onto the next new thing to become a licensed game. The real burn comes after you learn that your pitiful existence is paying for the expensive habits of the suits, some 50 floors above you where fabled glass walls look out onto majestic horizons. Hell, it would seem, is THQ Inc.

The publisher responsible for all that is Nickelodeon in the industry has confirmed that success makes for a better headline than hard-earned respect. THQ's long-term licensing agreement with Nickelodeon has paid off -- to the tune of $1 billion and growing! With no shortage of kids who eat, sleep, and pray for Nickelodeon, THQ has sold more than 50 million games of this stuff. And there's no end in sight.

JoystiqTHQ's Nickelodeon games surpass $1 billion in sales originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 May 2008 13:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nickelodeonthe-naked-brothers-bandthqMon, 05 May 2008 13:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Drawn to Life: SpongeBob Video Pants]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/03/drawn-to-life-sponge-bob/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/03/drawn-to-life-sponge-bob/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/03/drawn-to-life-sponge-bob/#commentsFiled under:


It's a credit to the original Drawn to Life's concept and quality that we're still interested in the follow-up despite 5th Cell's absence and its attached license -- SpongeBob SquarePants.

IGN previewed the customizable platformer, and while it doesn't revolutionize the draw-your-adventure formula, it's a "polished, Nickelodeon-ized" take on it. We've never played any games from Alton, the developer taking the reins from 5th Cell, so we'll have to try Drawn to Life: SpongeBob SquarePants Edition ourselves before developing an opinion with any firmness to it.

Word has it, a two-player versus mode will be included, so look forward to pitting grotesquely phallic avatars against crude renditions of cartoon characters -- Donatello, Heathcliff, skies the limit!

See also: DS Fanboy Review: Drawn to Life

JoystiqDrawn to Life: SpongeBob Video Pants originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 03 May 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5th-celldrawn-to-lifenickelodeonspongebobspongebob-squarepantsthqSat, 03 May 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gaming with Nickelodeon fame]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/28/gaming-with-nickelodeon-fame/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/28/gaming-with-nickelodeon-fame/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/28/gaming-with-nickelodeon-fame/#commentsFiled under: ,

Today, at 5:00PM eastern (2:00PM pacific), Xbox Live Game with Fame gets a healthy coat of orange paint going Nickelodeon with two Nick stars gaming it up with fans. Roxy Hunter's own Aria Wallace and Zoey 101's Victoria Justice will be on Xbox Live playing Guitar Hero III and DDR: Universe 2 under the gamertags NickGWF1 and NickGWF2. So gather the kids, gather the adults, shoot a few friend requests and show those Nickelodeon stars how brutal Xbox Live can really be. Do us proud.

JoystiqGaming with Nickelodeon fame originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 28 Mar 2008 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>game-with-famegwfnickelodeonxbox-liveFri, 28 Mar 2008 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Nickelodeon to bulk up online game library]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/19/nickelodeon-to-bulk-up-online-game-library/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/19/nickelodeon-to-bulk-up-online-game-library/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/19/nickelodeon-to-bulk-up-online-game-library/#commentsFiled under: , ,

MTV-owned Nickelodeon recently announced plans to add a whopping 1,600 Flash games to its network of web sites. That might sound like a lot, until you consider that the children's network already controls roughly 5,000 web games that reach over 20 million users every month.

Sure, a good proportion of those games are probably Space Invaders clones found at the acquisition AddictingGames.com. But the Nick portfolio also includes some deep, popular virtual worlds like Neopets and Nicktropolis, and the company has announced they'll be creating three more kid-focused, web-based MMOs in the future. When exactly did the first kids network become the first kids gaming network?

JoystiqNickelodeon to bulk up online game library originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 Mar 2008 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualflashneopetsnicknickelodeonPCwebWed, 19 Mar 2008 10:45:00 EST<![CDATA[THQ earns more sales, less profits, lots of licenses]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/05/thq-earns-more-sales-less-profits-lots-of-licenses/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/05/thq-earns-more-sales-less-profits-lots-of-licenses/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/05/thq-earns-more-sales-less-profits-lots-of-licenses/#commentsFiled under:

For its third fiscal quarter through the holiday season, publisher THQ saw their sales boost to $509.6 million but profits down to $15.5 million (via Gamasutra). Comparatively, last year they had $475.7 million in sales (a 7% raise) and $62.1 million in profit (a 75% drop). THQ also had $27 million in non-cash charges due to the cancellations of Juiced and Stuntman.

Big sellers include THQ's licenses. Life to date sales from Nickelodeon projects total $1 billion, and WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 enjoyed a whopping five million in unit sales -- behold the power of licensing.

JoystiqTHQ earns more sales, less profits, lots of licenses originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Feb 2008 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carsnicknickelodeonthqwrestlingwweTue, 05 Feb 2008 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft touts family focus with cartoon downloads]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/23/microsoft-touts-new-family-focus-with-cartoon-downloads/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/23/microsoft-touts-new-family-focus-with-cartoon-downloads/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/23/microsoft-touts-new-family-focus-with-cartoon-downloads/#commentsFiled under: ,

Think Nintendo has a stranglehold on the family-friendly console maker moniker? Microsoft would like you to think again. A new press release from the Xbox 360 maker touts the availability today of 100 downloadable cartoons from Warner Bros. and Nickelodeon properties on the Video Marketplace, as well as the impending launch of Shrek and Spongebob-licensed games for Xbox Live Arcade. Add in the recent branding of the new Xbox 360 Arcade as "the console for families" and a Microsoft-sponsored "family fun day" event in Times Square's Toys "R" Us today and you have a major push into the Big N's family-oriented turf.

This isn't the first time Microsoft has tried to extend its reach past the hardcore Halo fans, but in the past innovative family titles like Viva Pinata have had trouble making inroads against big-name hardcore games like Gears of War. Will this latest push broaden Microsoft's image or is the 360 destined to be known primarily (and inaccurately) as a first-person shooter system. Leave your thoughts in the comments.

JoystiqMicrosoft touts family focus with cartoon downloads originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Oct 2007 13:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>familyfamily-friendlymicrosoftnickelodeonshrekspongebobwarnerbrosXbox-360Tue, 23 Oct 2007 13:25:00 EST<![CDATA[New family content headed to XBLA and XBLM]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/23/new-family-content-headed-to-xbla-and-xblm/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/23/new-family-content-headed-to-xbla-and-xblm/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/23/new-family-content-headed-to-xbla-and-xblm/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

In an effort to bring in the youth and parent markets, Microsoft just announced plans for releasing brand new content from Nickelodeon and Warner Bros. to the Xbox Live Marketplace as well as announcing two new children's based XBLA games.

Starting today, you'll be able to get 50+ episodes of Warner Bros'. "Looney Tunes" via the (US only) Video Marketplace. The episodes included feature the standard "Looney Tunes" greatness and a few episodes are even available in Spanish (double w00t!). Nickelodeon made the announcement that, starting today, exclusive content from their show "The Backyardigans" and episodes of "Blue's Clues" and "iCarly" will be available for purchase off the Video Marketplace. Finally, two new XBLA games were also revealed today both capitalizing on the popularity of children's animated figures. SHREK-N-ROLL and SpongeBob SquarePants: Underpants Slam will hit the Arcade soon'ish.

Oh, and don't worry about us fanboys. We will not be blowing all our cash on television episode downloads this week, because we so outgrew our obsession with "Blue's Clues" like ... totally months ago. Seriously, we don't like that adorable and laughable blue dog at all. Really ...

JoystiqNew family content headed to XBLA and XBLM originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Oct 2007 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nickelodeonshrek-n-rollspongebob-squarepants-underpants-slamunderpants-slamvideo-marketplacewarner-brosxblaxblmTue, 23 Oct 2007 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MTV spending $500 million on games in next two years]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/16/mtv-spending-500-million-on-games-in-next-two-years/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/16/mtv-spending-500-million-on-games-in-next-two-years/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/16/mtv-spending-500-million-on-games-in-next-two-years/#commentsFiled under:

MTV intends to spend over the next two years $500 million dollars in the video game industry. OK, seriously, maybe seeing the full line of digits will have more impact: $500,000,000. Eight zeros, a half billion dollars. This is big news and goes way beyond anything having to do with MTV's potential mega-hit Rock Band.

"We're putting well over $500 million behind building our games business across all of the brands in our portfolio ... I'd like to see more game applications on some of our current big brands across the music group," MTV chairman Judy McGrath said. It's still not absolutely clear if this money includes the $100 million already announced for MTV Network's Nickelodeon. This continues MTV's march across the industry having already acquired major properties like GameTrailers and Harmonix. No announcements yet where this money is going, but it's going to be very interesting to see MTV flex its financial muscle in the industry.

JoystiqMTV spending $500 million on games in next two years originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Aug 2007 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Don't act so surprised! Yes, a major developer is making a video game based on an upcoming film adapted from a series of popular children's books. While The Spiderwick Chronicles is notably short on boy wizards, Sierra's marketing fella says, "The Spiderwick Chronicles video game will authentically recreate the world of Jared, Simon and Mallory Grace, putting gamers in their shoes as they discover a hidden world of fantastical creatures - sprites, ogres, goblins, brownies and more." We're not sure how fantastical brownies are, but we digress ...

The Spiderwick Chronicles video game is being developed by Sierra for the Xbox 360, Wii, PS2, DS, and PC platforms, and is due to be released in February 2008 to coincide with the film's theatrical release (of course!).

JoystiqSierra developing Spiderwick Chronicles game based on movie originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Aug 2007 21:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSmoviesNickelodeonPCPS2SierraSpiderwickSpiderwickChroniclesWiiXbox-360Thu, 09 Aug 2007 21:29:00 EST<![CDATA[MTV's Nickelodeon spending $100 million on gaming]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/18/mtvs-nickelodeon-spending-100-million-on-gaming/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/18/mtvs-nickelodeon-spending-100-million-on-gaming/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/18/mtvs-nickelodeon-spending-100-million-on-gaming/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Nickelodeon, former network of You Can't Do That on Television and Double Dare, announced they will be spending -- keeping the zeros in for effect -- $100,000,000 to become the top provider of casual games and master of casual game sites. Oh, and that $100 million isn't over many rotations around the sun either, that's just in the next two years for "development, distribution and creation."

If you're attempting to put two and two together at the moment on why Nickelodeon ... remember how obsessed you were with Nickelodeon as a child? Well, things haven't changed much, so by investing in games for their 8 -14 demographic, MTV networks can gateway drug potential casual gamers into other divisions of their vast media empire. This MTV gaming focus is nothing new, they have been gobbling up many gaming properties in recent years like Xfire, GameTrailers and the purchase of Harmonix, creators of potential mega-hit Rock Band. Nickelodeon should begin showing signs of this master plan later next year.

JoystiqMTV's Nickelodeon spending $100 million on gaming originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 Jul 2007 17:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesscasualgamingmoneymtvnetworksnickelodeonPS3Xbox-360Wed, 18 Jul 2007 17:55:00 EST<![CDATA[THQ profits show power of licensing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/03/thq-profits-show-power-of-licensing/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/03/thq-profits-show-power-of-licensing/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/03/thq-profits-show-power-of-licensing/#commentsFiled under:

Publisher THQ has posted net sales of more than $1 billion in their 2007 fiscal year, reportedly their 12th consecutive year of revenue growth. According to their annual financial report (PDF file), the company also managed to ship eight titles that exceeded one million units in sales. Their secret to success? Licensed titles.

The annual report revealed that THQ's focus was 80% licensed intellectual property and 20% owned IP -- a 4-to-1 ratio. Key achievements include shipping 8 million units of Disney/Pixar's Cars, 4 million units of WWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2007 and 4 million units combined of Nickelodeon franchises.

THQ did establish two franchises this fiscal year, Saint's Row and Company of Heroes, and this upcoming fiscal year, THQ intends to increase its focus on owned IPs to a 33% share on the pie graph -- that's now only a 2-to-1 ratio of licensed-to-owned IP.

Sure, licensed games may not be the most anticipated titles (or even the ones to receive the most coverage from the gaming press), but they do wonders to a publisher's bottom line.

JoystiqTHQ profits show power of licensing originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Jul 2007 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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