Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Minecraft on XBLA working toward constant updates]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/21/minecraft-on-xbla-working-toward-constant-updates/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/21/minecraft-on-xbla-working-toward-constant-updates/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/21/minecraft-on-xbla-working-toward-constant-updates/#comments Xbox Live Arcade is an excellent platform that's delivered some of our favorite games over the years, but the approval process for XBLA titles (and their subsequent updates) isn't quite as expedient as other platforms. For ever-changing games like Minecraft, where updates are as vital as they are frequent, this can create potentially destructive brand fragmentation where two distinctly difference experiences exist on two different platforms.

Microsoft is aware of the issue, however, and as such will be streamlining the update process for 4J Studio's port of Mojang's runaway hit. "Microsoft knows that to do a similar thing that's on PC where they constantly update it, that's a very difficult thing to do on Xbox because you have to go through the full tests," said chief technology officer Paddy Burns during an interview with Edge. "But they are quite keen to move towards that - they do see it as the future, so I think we might be the first to do constant updates."

Realistically, Burns never expects updates for the XBLA port to come as frequently or as easily as on the PC, but he does believe that "every two months" is within the realm of possibility. Upon release, XBLA's version of Minecraft will be based on the Beta 1.6.6 version of the game, which released just before last year's E3. Burns hopes to reach parity with retail version 1.0 as quickly as possible.

JoystiqMinecraft on XBLA working toward constant updates originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 21 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4j-studiosmicrosoftMinecraftmojangpaddy-burnspatchpatchesupdatesXBLAxboxSat, 21 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Skyrim PC patch arrives, adds mandatory Steam DRM, kills some tweaks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/22/skyrim-pc-patch-arrives-adds-mandatory-steam-drm-kills-some-tw/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/22/skyrim-pc-patch-arrives-adds-mandatory-steam-drm-kills-some-tw/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/22/skyrim-pc-patch-arrives-adds-mandatory-steam-drm-kills-some-tw/#comments It should come as no surprise that Bethesda's massive Skyrim needs some patching and last night, the first patch, weighing in at a humble 18MB, arrived for the PC platform. Unfortunately, this patch didn't address any of the game's bugs; rather, it prevented the main executable from running without Steam. "DRM," you cry, waving your makeshift pitchfork in the air. Well, yes ... but a bigger problem than that, as detailed by the good-looking folks at Rock, Paper, Shotgun, is that the patch disables some of the game's more popular mods.

Initially the patch disabled the large address aware third-party patch that allowed the Skyrim executable to, well, address larger amounts of RAM. For some reason, the game will only recognize a maximum of 2GB of RAM (or: the same amount of RAM that a bathroom scale has). Luckily a workaround has cropped up that doesn't need to alter the executable and life goes on. However, the "fabled uGrids .ini file tinker that made the game's icy landscapes look significantly more gorgeous" is no longer operational post-update. RPS isn't bullish on long-term patch support from Bethesda, so consider this a warning if you're considering playing PC and have a religious or philosophical opposition to being unable to mod your software.

JoystiqSkyrim PC patch arrives, adds mandatory Steam DRM, kills some tweaks originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 Nov 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bethesda-Softworkselder-scrolls-5microsoftpatchespcplaystationps3skyrimthe-elder-scrolls-v-skyrimxboxTue, 22 Nov 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlefield 3 won't be sold on Steam; EA claims service 'restricts our ability to directly support players']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/06/battlefield-3-wont-be-sold-on-steam-ea-claims-service-restric/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/06/battlefield-3-wont-be-sold-on-steam-ea-claims-service-restric/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/06/battlefield-3-wont-be-sold-on-steam-ea-claims-service-restric/#comments EA's big holiday release, Battlefield 3, apparently won't be available via Valve's ubiquitous PC game download service, Steam, as previously hinted. Taking to Twitter and its own forums, EA announced as much with some interesting, if not inflammatory, claims. "BF3 will not be available on Steam as the service restricts our ability to directly support players," the Twitter account says.

The forum post goes a bit further in explaining the publisher's position, though it doesn't go so far as to explicitly explain the schism. "Steam has adopted a set of restrictive terms of service which limit how developers interact with customers to deliver patches and other downloadable content," the forum post reads. "No other download service has adopted these practices." As with Dragon Age 2, this is in reference to one specific part of Steam's Terms of Service agreement, which forces games to deliver DLC and patches through Steam rather than through a game-specific client. EA claims this to be restrictive, and thus refuses to sell some titles through the service.

It remains unclear why EA -- who, in the past, has offered a variety of games through Steam, regardless of the Terms of Service -- refuses to offer DLC and patches through Steam suddenly, but it certainly appears to be a stance the company is staying firm on. The forum post also notes EA's inclination towards resolving the issue with Valve, saying, "We hope to work out an agreement where Steam can carry Battlefield 3; meanwhile, gamers can pick from the more than 100 digital retailers."

JoystiqBattlefield 3 won't be sold on Steam; EA claims service 'restricts our ability to directly support players' originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 06 Aug 2011 07:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-3dicedlcdownloadable-contentdrmeaea-diceelectronic-artspatchespcsteamterms-of-servicevalveSat, 06 Aug 2011 07:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Club Nintendo updates with Kirby patches, Mario wrist straps]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/15/club-nintendo-updates-with-kirby-patches-mario-wrist-straps/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/15/club-nintendo-updates-with-kirby-patches-mario-wrist-straps/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/15/club-nintendo-updates-with-kirby-patches-mario-wrist-straps/#commentsClub Nintendo has a few new bonuses available in its shop, just in case you happen to have a sudden influx of new Nintendo games, and therefore Club Nintendo Coins, in the next couple of weeks.

For 350 Coins, you can get one of two sets of adorable adhesive Kirby's Epic Yarn patches, featuring either Saucer and Off-Roader Kirby, or regular-style Kirby and Prince Fluff. Or, for 450 Coins, you can get a set of four New Super Mario Bros. Wii-themed Wii Remote straps, each one representing one of the four playable characters.

In other Club Nintendo news, the fans, messenger bags and tote bags are back in stock. Hurry!

Gallery: Club Nintendo December 2010 update

JoystiqClub Nintendo updates with Kirby patches, Mario wrist straps originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Dec 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>club-nintendokirbys-epic-yarnnew-super-mario-bros-wiinintendopatcheswiiwii-remotewrist-strapWed, 15 Dec 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[StarCraft 2's designer stands by tradition, promises updates 'soon']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/22/starcraft-2s-designer-stands-by-tradition-promises-updates-so/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/22/starcraft-2s-designer-stands-by-tradition-promises-updates-so/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/22/starcraft-2s-designer-stands-by-tradition-promises-updates-so/#commentsFiled under: , ,

To hear Starcraft 2 designer Dustin Browder tell it, creating games at Blizzard takes years of fighting and yelling rather than coding or creating art -- every little decision is a "a three-week or longer holy war." Browder says that the controversial decision to release the RTS as three titles was made to get the game out faster -- after all that arguing, Blizzard figured that it needed to release something, and if that had been the whole game, we'd have been waiting even longer. As it was, he says, "we wanted to get a product into consumers' hands sometime before the end of the decade. Even that we didn't quite make, I guess, but it was still sooner!"

Browder answers fans' concerns about how closely the second game resembles the first by suggesting that adapting RTS competitors' innovations wouldn't have made the game more successful. "I haven't really seen another gameplay experience that's attracted millions of players with hundreds of thousands playing online," he says. "I have not seen someone else be successful by removing economy. I have not seen other RTSes be successful by removing micro."

And finally, he says to look for future updates coming to the game, both in the form of patches to Battle.net, and in the other versions. There's no timeline set yet for the paid user maps program, but Blizzard is working on more art for modders, and updates "for our fans to get more value out of Battle.net." As for what updates will be in the second retail title, Heart of the Swarm, Browder seems to hint that Blizzard just hasn't decided yet. They must still be throwing things and yelling down in Irvine.

JoystiqStarCraft 2's designer stands by tradition, promises updates 'soon' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Sep 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battle-netblizzard-entertainmentdustin-browdergame-informerinterviewpatchespcrtsStarcraft-2starcraft-2-heart-of-the-swarmupdatesWed, 22 Sep 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: APB (Day 4: Cards on the table)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/09/review-apb-day-4-cards-on-the-table/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/09/review-apb-day-4-cards-on-the-table/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/09/review-apb-day-4-cards-on-the-table/#comments

Review Diary

This is the final part of a four-day review diary about the first MMO from developers Realtime Worlds, APB.

One of the hardest parts about reviewing an MMO is that the genre takes full advantage of being online and persistent. Because players need to log in to an updated client every time, developers can quickly and relatively easily push out new bugfixes and content with regularity. Realtime Worlds has already released one patch post-release for APB, and while I've talked about certain issues with repetitive gameplay and earning customization levels, both of those issues can be fixed with updates if the developers choose to do so.

So the final question in reviewing an MMO isn't necessarily if you should buy this game today or not. It's: Does the game offer enough promise to invest your time and attention? Future plans included, out of all the games you could spend your free time on, is APB capable of rewarding that investment with a quality experience?

Continue reading Review: APB (Day 4: Cards on the table)

JoystiqReview: APB (Day 4: Cards on the table) originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 Jul 2010 18:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinAPBcustomizationdave-joneseaea-partnersgameplaygenreissuesmmoonlinepatchespcrealtime-worldsreviewupdatesFri, 09 Jul 2010 18:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Metro 2033 patched for DLC support]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/18/metro-2033-patched-for-dlc-support/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/18/metro-2033-patched-for-dlc-support/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/18/metro-2033-patched-for-dlc-support/#comments We know you probably flew into a rage when a recent Title Update denied you a few precious seconds of Metro 2033 play time, but we've been assured by developer 4A Games that it's all for a good cause: To prepare for upcoming DLC. On the game's official Facebook page, a spokesperson confirmed that additional content was in the works, but didn't provide much detail, saying only that multiplayer would be impossible and that "it won't be new SP narrative content, 'missing levels' or anything like that - it's something we're only just starting production on."

Wait, it won't be new single-player story bits or multiplayer, so what does that leave? While novel, we're not sure "Flashlight Hand-Cranking Time Attack" would be a huge step forward.

[Via Inc Gamers]

JoystiqMetro 2033 patched for DLC support originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 18 Mar 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4A-gamesdlcmetro-2033Microsoftpatchestitle-updateXbox-360Thu, 18 Mar 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Big news, Phil! Call of Juarez: Bound in Blood gets multiplayer patch]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/27/big-news-phil-call-of-juarez-bound-in-blood-gets-multiplayer/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/27/big-news-phil-call-of-juarez-bound-in-blood-gets-multiplayer/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/27/big-news-phil-call-of-juarez-bound-in-blood-gets-multiplayer/#comments We have great news for Phillip Arnasus of Sterling, Virginia. Ubisoft's Twitter feed says that a patch, arriving tomorrow on Xbox 360 and PS3, will focus on bringing balance to the different classes in Call of Juarez: Bound in Blood's multiplayer mode. As the one person who frequently plays the Bound in Blood multiplayer, Arnasus says he's "really looking forward to it" and hopes the fixes will help the mode to "finally catch on," which even his closest friends agree is a long shot.

We give publishers so much heat for the important things they don't do, that we feel obligated to note when they go the extra mile for nobody. No offense, Phil, it's just a figure of speech.

JoystiqBig news, Phil! Call of Juarez: Bound in Blood gets multiplayer patch originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>call-of-juarezCall-of-Juarez-Bound-in-BlooddlcpatchesubisoftTue, 27 Oct 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The best of WoW.com: June 16-23, 2009]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/25/the-best-of-wow-com-june-16-23-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/25/the-best-of-wow-com-june-16-23-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/25/the-best-of-wow-com-june-16-23-2009/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Things are heating up both outside and in the World of Warcraft lately, as we're gearing up for a big time content release. Joystiq's sister site WoW.com has all the news you need about patch 3.2, from the latest changes and updates to when we'll actually see it out on the live realms. Read on for more about the biggest and best MMO around.

News

Features

JoystiqThe best of WoW.com: June 16-23, 2009 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Jun 2009 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementschangesclass-qacrusaders-coliseumdramaemblemguildsmagemmoonlineoverachieverpatch-3.2patch-3.2-ptrpatchesprofessionsptrrecruitingshamansystemtokentotemwow-comThu, 25 Jun 2009 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Killzone 2 patch coming early Tuesday morning]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/30/killzone-2-patch-coming-early-tuesday-morning/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/30/killzone-2-patch-coming-early-tuesday-morning/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/30/killzone-2-patch-coming-early-tuesday-morning/#comments
You know, you live a tough life. You spend all day working for The Man, spend all night taking care of your family, with only a few moments at the end of the day for Killzone 2. In those all too brief minutes, you shouldn't have to put up with a lack of standardization of the Y-Axis controls on the HGH Scout when zoomed with the Sniper Rifle. Beginning tomorrow at 4 a.m. EDT, you won't have to. Guerrilla Games has just announced via its Twitter feed that you can expect a new patch to arrive at that time.

Sure, there are other things fixed by the 1.21 update -- in fact, we've got a full list after the break. But we're not going to waste any more of your time. You live a tough life.

Continue reading Killzone 2 patch coming early Tuesday morning

JoystiqKillzone 2 patch coming early Tuesday morning originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 Mar 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fpsguerrilla-gameskillzone-2patchesMon, 30 Mar 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Call of Duty: World at War gets patch, new map on PC Feb. 6]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/05/call-of-duty-world-at-war-gets-patch-new-map-on-pc-feb-6/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/05/call-of-duty-world-at-war-gets-patch-new-map-on-pc-feb-6/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/05/call-of-duty-world-at-war-gets-patch-new-map-on-pc-feb-6/#comments
The PC gaming industry may not quite have the earth-shaking force of its heyday, but PC gamers still enjoy the occasional perk. Take for instance the sweet, sweet nectar of patches and updates often weeks or months (Team Fortress 2?) before their console brethren. Tomorrow, PC gamers will enjoy just such a bounty when Call of Duty: World at War gets patched to version 1.2.

Besides the expansive list of changes -- which you can find right after the break -- PC players will also get to feast their mouses on a brand new map! ... OK, sure, it's just a daytime version of the "Makin" map. But it's so free! And so not on consoles.

Continue reading Call of Duty: World at War gets patch, new map on PC Feb. 6

JoystiqCall of Duty: World at War gets patch, new map on PC Feb. 6 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Feb 2009 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisioncall-of-duty-5call-of-duty-world-at-wardlcfpspatchespctreyarchThu, 05 Feb 2009 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Street Fighter II Turbo HD Remix patch on the way]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/28/super-street-fighter-ii-turbo-hd-remix-patch-on-the-way/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/28/super-street-fighter-ii-turbo-hd-remix-patch-on-the-way/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/28/super-street-fighter-ii-turbo-hd-remix-patch-on-the-way/#comments
After typing Super Street Fighter II Turbo HD Remix so many times, we finally swore to ourselves that we would never, ever buy the game. But those of you less familiar with digit strain should know that Capcom is working on a patch to eliminate any problems you may have encountered in your purchase.

Capcom isn't currently offering any hints as to what boo-boos it'll be bandaging, but we'd bet you'll see more than a couple of the problems on this fan-compiled list getting Tiger Uppercutted.

JoystiqSuper Street Fighter II Turbo HD Remix patch on the way originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Jan 2009 14:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomMicrosoftpatchespsnssfiithdrstreet-fighterxblaXbox-360Wed, 28 Jan 2009 14:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Valve teases 'very different' TF2 mode, possible new class]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/21/valve-teases-very-different-new-game-mode-possible-new-class/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/21/valve-teases-very-different-new-game-mode-possible-new-class/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/21/valve-teases-very-different-new-game-mode-possible-new-class/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


If you haven't completely abandoned Team Fortress 2 for Left 4 Dead (or are straddling the two), then you'll want to start digging through this comprehensive new piece from The Escapist for hints about the cartoonish shooter's future. After a quick perusal, we've already spotted a tease for a "very different" new game mode (coming soon!) and discussion of a possible 10th class.

Speaking of L4D, we'd like to make our bid for the 10th class: The "Louis." His special skills include 1. being Louis and 2. shouting about pipe bombs. Get it done, Valve.

JoystiqValve teases 'very different' TF2 mode, possible new class originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Jan 2009 12:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>patchesPCPS3team-fortress-2valveXbox-360Wed, 21 Jan 2009 12:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer Online patch 1.1a now active]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/11/warhammer-online-patch-1-1a-now-active/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/11/warhammer-online-patch-1-1a-now-active/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/11/warhammer-online-patch-1-1a-now-active/#commentsFiled under: ,


It may be nothing but a number to you, but to fans of Warhammer Online, patch 1.1a is the sickest, illest patch to come along since Game Update 1.0.6. Just how dope could one patch, which just went live in game, be? How about new careers? How about armor set improvements? Still nothing? Well how about one public quest in each chapter of Tier 1 being easier? How about that business?

Our friends at Massively have all the gruesome details if you're still not convinced of 1.1a's freshness.

JoystiqWarhammer Online patch 1.1a now active originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Dec 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mythicpatchesPCwarwarhammer-onlineThu, 11 Dec 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Capcom acknowledges bugs with Age of Booty, promises patch to arrive soon]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/09/capcom-acknowledges-bugs-with-age-of-booty-promises-patch-to-ar/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/09/capcom-acknowledges-bugs-with-age-of-booty-promises-patch-to-ar/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/09/capcom-acknowledges-bugs-with-age-of-booty-promises-patch-to-ar/#commentsFiled under:

Capcom has noted that some people have been experiencing "stability and connectivity" issues with the company's swashbuckler of a game, Age of Booty. Apparently, the European trial version and the North American Trophy patch were released too early and have caused problems for owners of the game. Capcom acknowledges the situation and reports that it is working on fixing things right away. Taken from Capcom Unity: "We're rushing a patch out to everyone that'll revert back to the proper version. Sony will have it within 24 hours and the public will have it as soon as Sony declares it ready to publish.

Our regular readers, however, may remember that Sony's approval process may take upward to two weeks. So hopefully there will be smooth sailing in time for Christmas. Capcom also says they're about a week away from resubmitting a finalized trial version and Trophy patch.

JoystiqCapcom acknowledges bugs with Age of Booty, promises patch to arrive soon originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Dec 2008 22:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-bootycapcomCertain-AffinitypatchesTue, 09 Dec 2008 22:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Guitar Hero III Les Paul support, PAX pack fix coming to PS3 Rock Band Thursday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/08/guitar-hero-iii-les-paul-support-pax-pack-fix-coming-to-ps3-roc/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/08/guitar-hero-iii-les-paul-support-pax-pack-fix-coming-to-ps3-roc/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/08/guitar-hero-iii-les-paul-support-pax-pack-fix-coming-to-ps3-roc/#commentsFiled under: ,


Beginning this Thursday, junior rockers that prefer PS3 can rip their Rock Band tracks right to their system in preparation for Rock Band 2. But, much like Ziggy Stardust, the Sept. 11 patch will be hiding a secret under all the glam: The addition of Guitar Hero III Les Paul controller support. If you've managed to hold out this long from getting a second RB guitar, your patience has finally been rewarded.

You'll also be happy to hear that Harmonix is hammering out a fix for the busted PAX Pack, which will also be included with the export patch. Now, if you'll excuse us, we've got to go update the Instrument Matrix ... again.

[Thanks, Chris]

JoystiqGuitar Hero III Les Paul support, PAX pack fix coming to PS3 Rock Band Thursday originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Sep 2008 09:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>guitar-hero-iiiharmonixpatchesPS3rock-bandrock-band-2Mon, 08 Sep 2008 09:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Burnout Paradise's 'Cagney' update delayed on Xbox 360 until July 24]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/burnout-paradises-cagney-update-delayed-on-360-until-july-24/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/burnout-paradises-cagney-update-delayed-on-360-until-july-24/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/burnout-paradises-cagney-update-delayed-on-360-until-july-24/#commentsFiled under: ,


Step right this way 360 owners, past the bearded woman, under the tent flap and into "Bizarro World!" In this world, 360 versions of things are always delayed, while PS3 players get to enjoy them first. Look, over there! That's a PS3 owner enjoying the new Burnout Paradise update "Cagney" today, and you've got to wait for it! And not just a few days like we originally thought! No, Criterion's now saying you're going to be waiting until at least July 24! The terror!

And look, over there, it's ... actually, that's the only exhibit we've got, sorry folks. Drive safely don't forget that your ticket stubs are good for 50 percent off at Pizza In a Cup.

[Thanks, SharpShooter]

JoystiqBurnout Paradise's 'Cagney' update delayed on Xbox 360 until July 24 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Jul 2008 13:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>burnout-paradisecriterionpatchespsnupdatesXbox-360xbox-liveThu, 10 Jul 2008 13:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Team Fortress 2 Pyro update coming Thursday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/17/team-fortress-2-pyro-update-coming-thursday/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/17/team-fortress-2-pyro-update-coming-thursday/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/17/team-fortress-2-pyro-update-coming-thursday/#commentsFiled under: ,


We didn't think it possible to get more satisfaction out of setting people and property ablaze, but the eternal optimists at Valve are attempting to improve on the experience with an update to Team Fortress 2's Pyro class, which the company has announced will arrive on Thursday. Expect the Axtinguisher (which sounds like something Strong Bad came up with) as well as two other weapons and 35 new achievements for the Fortress firebug.

What's more, all Steam users will be able to try out the new enhancements with a free Team Fortress 2 weekend beginning this Friday. (Note to new players: TF2 is not always a hellish world of flame, populated only by masked men spraying fire in every direction. That will pass, we promise.)

JoystiqTeam Fortress 2 Pyro update coming Thursday originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Jun 2008 08:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>patchesPCpyrosteamteam-fortress-2updatesTue, 17 Jun 2008 08:10:00 EST<![CDATA[GTA IV gets 1.01 patch, freezing not fixed [Update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/07/gta-iv-gets-1-01-patch-freezing-fixed/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/07/gta-iv-gets-1-01-patch-freezing-fixed/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/07/gta-iv-gets-1-01-patch-freezing-fixed/#commentsFiled under:

Looks like Grand Theft Auto IV got a little band-aid patchwork today with a 1.01 update. It's a small little tweak at 18 MB, and it supposedly will fix up those freezing problems everyone's been getting antsy over. So far, we've been playing with the new patch for the past few minutes and everything seems to be going smoothly.

[Update: Looks like the freezing issue has not been fixed after all. Many gamers are stating the problem is persisting. Apparently, this update is supposed to fix multiplayer connectivity issues which cause the game to lockup. Eurogamer notes: "reducing the loads on the servers at GameSpy and hopefully the completely random hangs that some users have seen".]

[Thanks Lee!]

JoystiqGTA IV gets 1.01 patch, freezing not fixed [Update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 May 2008 13:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>grand-theft-autogrand-theft-auto-4grand-theft-auto-ivgta-vigtaivpatchesrockstarWed, 07 May 2008 13:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Rainbow Six Vegas 2 gets title update]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/24/rainbow-six-vegas-2-gets-title-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/24/rainbow-six-vegas-2-gets-title-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/24/rainbow-six-vegas-2-gets-title-update/#commentsFiled under: ,


Surprising no one more than ourselves, several members of the staff have been spending loads of quality time with Rainbow Six Vegas 2, so it brought us plenty of joy to see that Ubisoft recently released a title update for the 360 version of the game. No, most aren't fixes to our beloved co-op, but what does it really need? More radical? Our pants are quite soiled enough, thank you very much.

Those of you who prefer multiplayer matches can expect faster weapon switching, faster respawns and bevy of other changes that you can check out here. And if you play on the PS3, don't worry: A similar patch is in the works for you as well.

JoystiqRainbow Six Vegas 2 gets title update originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 Apr 2008 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>patchesrainbow-six-vegas-2ubisoftXbox-360Thu, 24 Apr 2008 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhawk gets patched up today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/02/warhawk-gets-patched-up-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/02/warhawk-gets-patched-up-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/02/warhawk-gets-patched-up-today/#commentsFiled under: ,


If you've tried to play Warhawk since about 6 a.m. EST today, you've probably been a bit unnerved, perhaps even alarmed by your inability to access the game. But take heart! Your sacrifice will be rewarded after 12 p.m. today when you find that patch 1.3 has gone live.

What does 1.3 mean to you? Well how's about a Bio-Reactive Field Generator? How does that grab you? How about ... you know what? It's in the video. Just watch that. We're busy unlearning French.

JoystiqWarhawk gets patched up today originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Apr 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcpatchesPS3psnwarhawkWed, 02 Apr 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Call of Duty 4 patch now available for PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/18/call-of-duty-4-patch-now-available-for-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/18/call-of-duty-4-patch-now-available-for-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/18/call-of-duty-4-patch-now-available-for-ps3/#commentsFiled under: ,


Infinity Ward spokesman Robert Bowling ("fourzerotwo" to the l33t kids) let fans of the game know that PS3 players should be receiving a new feature patch for Call of Duty 4: Modern Combat this week. But according to a few tipsters and commenters on his blog, it's now up and ready for your enjoyment.

In case you missed the post (or haven't talked to your 360-owning, Call of Duty 4-playing friends since last month) the patch includes better sniper rifle and ACOG accuracy, as well as host migration and playlist changes. You can find some more info right here. ... Or hey, why not just go play?

[Thanks, RileyFreeman]

JoystiqCall of Duty 4 patch now available for PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 18 Mar 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionbreakingnewscall-of-duty-4fourzerotwoinfinity-wardpatchesPS3Tue, 18 Mar 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Call of Duty 4 feature patch is now live]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/29/call-of-duty-4-feature-patch-is-now-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/29/call-of-duty-4-feature-patch-is-now-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/29/call-of-duty-4-feature-patch-is-now-live/#commentsFiled under: , ,


You may remember last week when we told you about the chock-full feature patch that would be hitting Call of Duty 4 sometime in the near future. Well, friends: The future is now. ... At least, it is for Xbox 360 owners. We're assuming PlayStation 3 players will be getting it soon if they haven't already, we just haven't had a chance to test yet.

In case you missed the post (for shame!) expect host migration (even when a host drops teams stay together), better accuracy for snipers and ACOG scope users, an expanded Kill Cam that includes claymores, airstrikes and grenades, nine new spawn points on each map, quick mute and some other tweaks. ... Well, what are you waiting for? Go play already!

JoystiqCall of Duty 4 feature patch is now live originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Feb 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionBreakingNewscall-of-duty-4callofduty4CoD4dlcinfinity-wardpatchesPS3psnXbox-360xbox-liveFri, 29 Feb 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hellgate: London balances, Stonehenge coming today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/21/hellgate-london-balances-stonehenge-coming-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/21/hellgate-london-balances-stonehenge-coming-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/21/hellgate-london-balances-stonehenge-coming-today/#commentsFiled under: ,

Do you still care about Hellgate: London? We don't ask out of an attempt at snarkiness, we're asking with genuine curiosity. We ask because there's a big update for subscribers dropping today and we just want to know if that describes any of you. Or maybe you're a former player and just want to keep up with changes. For example, even though out brief fling with the game ended months ago, we were still interested to hear that the game was adding Stonehenge, a large outdoor hub designed to break up some of the monotony of city living. There's also some balance tweaks to the character classes and a new Dueling Arena.

But do you care? Have you played? Are you still? Do you want to know what's going on in the world of Hellgate? Does this update pique your interest? Because we get the feeling that most of you have moved on or were never that interested to begin with. We look forward to hearing if that's right or off-base.

JoystiqHellgate: London balances, Stonehenge coming today originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 Jan 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hellgatehellgate-londonhellgatelondonpatchesPCMon, 21 Jan 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sega: No plans for Virtua Fighter 5 PS3 patch]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/19/sega-no-plans-for-virtua-fighter-5-ps3-patch/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/19/sega-no-plans-for-virtua-fighter-5-ps3-patch/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/19/sega-no-plans-for-virtua-fighter-5-ps3-patch/#commentsFiled under:


As of late, Sega hasn't been very kind to PS3 owning fighting fans. First, Sega spurned online support for the PS3 version of Virtua Fighter 5, instead offering full online play for the game's Xbox 360 version. More recently, however, Sega released a patch for the 360 title that improved several aspects of play, both online and offline.

Do you think Sega would finally throw us PS3 VF5 owners bone? No and probably not ever, according to Sega's Jay Boor. He told PS3 Fanboy, "at this time SEGA has no plans to release a patch for the PS3 version of Virtua Fighter 5."

Sure, a few of you may look at that and still hold onto the possibility, but we're finally closing the door on any hope that the PS3 version will ever get any future improvements, let alone online play. Oh well, there's always the inevitable sequel, right?

JoystiqSega: No plans for Virtua Fighter 5 PS3 patch originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 19 Jan 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>downloadspatchpatchessegavf5virtua-fighter-5Sat, 19 Jan 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Orange Box patch might be on the horizon]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/01/orange-box-patch-might-be-on-the-horizon/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/01/orange-box-patch-might-be-on-the-horizon/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/01/orange-box-patch-might-be-on-the-horizon/#commentsFiled under: ,

It's no secret the PS3 version of Orange Box is inferior to the PC and 360 version due to the unforgivable amounts of bugs and bad coding. Many gamers have voiced their displeasure about the game, and one upset gamer, who purchased the game despite the highly publicized problems, posted a thread on Valve's forums. Soon after, a Valve employee responded to address his complaints.

"I hope that we will be able to correct any major issues in the future," wrote Burton before wishing him a "Happy New Years." Now, this can be interpreted numerous ways, however, the most likely scenario is Valve issuing a patch to address these problems.

One thing to keep in mind is that this mess isn't entirely Valve's fault since it handed over reigns to EA London for the PS3 port. However, it's still Valve's baby, and it's most certainly in the developer's best interests to keep the quality of its most-popular franchise as high as possible.

JoystiqRumor: Orange Box patch might be on the horizon originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Jan 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bugseaorange-boxpatchesportrumorvalveTue, 01 Jan 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guitar Hero III gets rock 'n' roll patch]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/15/guitar-hero-iii-gets-rock-n-roll-patch/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/15/guitar-hero-iii-gets-rock-n-roll-patch/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/15/guitar-hero-iii-gets-rock-n-roll-patch/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Woo! Good evening, internet! Welcome to the stage the new patch for Guitar Hero III on PS3 and Xbox 360, now, are you ready to rock? They're going to kick it off with "Improved Online Quick Match Results" and "Calibration Screen Improvements, Helping Users With High Lag AV Systems" and then one just for you Playstation 3 users: "The Co-Op Quickplay Mode." Finally, they're going to be closing with their new single: "Various Stability Improvements and Fixes." ... Hey, why doesn't anyone have their lighter out?

... OK, so this patch isn't particularly rock 'n' roll. It doesn't wear a cool leather jacket or hassle nerds or boss around the rest of T-Birds. But it is practical, which is sort of cool too, isn't it? Maybe in a old-but-still-hip-English-professor sort of way? Guys? Where are you going?

JoystiqGuitar Hero III gets rock 'n' roll patch originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 15 Dec 2007 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionguitar-hero-iiiguitarheroiiipatchesps3Xbox-360xbox360Sat, 15 Dec 2007 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Patch coming for Assassin's Creed freezing problems]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/25/patch-coming-for-assassins-creed-freezing-problems/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/25/patch-coming-for-assassins-creed-freezing-problems/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/25/patch-coming-for-assassins-creed-freezing-problems/#commentsFiled under:

If you've been met with continual freezing while playing Assassin's Creed, never fear because Ubisoft is hard at work on an update to rectify the issue. It seems gamers are experiencing the freezing intermittently and not from the same point in the game.

"Following our recent statement regarding the freeze issues that some consumers are facing with Assassin's Creed on PlayStation 3, we can confirm that we are actively working on a game update," Ubisoft's UK community manager posted on its forums. "This update will help improve the stability of the game and will be released as soon as possible. In the meantime thank you for your ongoing feedback and patience."

It's great that Ubisoft is working on the fix so soon, but it's disappointing at the same time that gamers may have to wait weeks to be able to fully enjoy the game they spent their money on. These type of bugs should have been spotted and fixed long before the game was released to the public. Hopefully, Ubisoft says sorry by throwing us all some free downloadable content in addition to fixing the bug.

[Via Evil Avatar]

JoystiqPatch coming for Assassin's Creed freezing problems originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 25 Nov 2007 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>assassins-creedbugsgame-patchesgame-updatespatchesubisoftSun, 25 Nov 2007 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[See new World of Warcraft patch trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/14/see-new-world-of-warcraft-patch-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/14/see-new-world-of-warcraft-patch-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/14/see-new-world-of-warcraft-patch-trailer/#commentsFiled under: ,

How do you know your game is large? There are a few metrics, but we like to think it it's when you're making trailers, not just for your games or expansion packs but even for patches to your game. Such is the case with this new trailer for "The Gods of Zul'Aman" from patch 2.3 to World of Warcraft. Congrats, you scrappy upstart: You've officially arrived.

We wont' pretend to understand everything that's going on (you can check out WoW Insider for a deep understanding of 2.3), but what's here looks so cool we wish we were more into WoW. We do have one question though: Are the bad guys supposed to look so much like Battle Beasts?

JoystiqSee new World of Warcraft patch trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Nov 2007 08:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardmmorpgpatchesPCworld-of-warcraftwowWed, 14 Nov 2007 08:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhawk 1.1 patch ready for download]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/02/warhawk-1-1-patch-ready-for-download/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/02/warhawk-1-1-patch-ready-for-download/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/02/warhawk-1-1-patch-ready-for-download/#commentsFiled under: ,


If you've been looking for a good excuse to go back to Warhawk, you may have one today, as our dear friends at PS3 Fanboy are reporting that the 1.1 patch for the game is available now. In case you've forgotten since we last talked about it, the patch is largely under-the-hood fixes to improve performance. (We've put the full list after the jump.)

As a reminder, as of today you'll also want to be on the lookout for "Arbiters," a crack team charged with infiltrating games and snuffing out shenanigans. They'll be keeping an eye peeled for cheating (which we bet will make them a fairly easy kill.)

Continue reading Warhawk 1.1 patch ready for download

JoystiqWarhawk 1.1 patch ready for download originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Nov 2007 17:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>patchesps3updateswarhawkFri, 02 Nov 2007 17:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Catching up with Warhawk updates]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/23/catching-up-with-warhawk-updates/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/23/catching-up-with-warhawk-updates/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/23/catching-up-with-warhawk-updates/#commentsFiled under: ,


We don't know if you've been keeping up with Warhawk, but the dev team has been working on plenty of fixes and tweaks for the game, so much so that we thought a brief check-in was in order. Coming your way at the end of the month will be patch 1.1. This patch is pure under-the-hood stuff, improving connections, stability and fixing a few glitches. The patch will also add "Arbiters," officials who'll take to games and make sure that all of the players are on the up-and-up. Think Air Marshals for Warhawk.

Following that, there's already another patch (1.2) in testing. This will add some new layouts as well as some more customization options for your matches. Some other new features are also added by the patch, including the addition of support for the DualShock 3. Wow, next-gen delivery methods meet last-gen tech. Inspiring.

JoystiqCatching up with Warhawk updates originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Oct 2007 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcpatchesps3warhawkTue, 23 Oct 2007 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[BioShock PC patch, other fixes on the way]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/24/bioshock-pc-patch-other-fixes-on-the-way/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/24/bioshock-pc-patch-other-fixes-on-the-way/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/24/bioshock-pc-patch-other-fixes-on-the-way/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Cult of rapture indeed! Some may have been having small doubts about paying their membership dues up front after some BioShock issues have poked their relatively insignificant heads up over the past few days. Now, after an announcement that all of those problems are either fixed or being worked on by 2K, the cult is really living up to its name.

Fans have probably been the most vocal about the field-of-view issue, which had widescreen players seeing less than those with fullscreen displays. Though 2K said that the choice was an intentional one, they've taken complaints into consideration and are working on a PC patch for the problem. (If you're in a rush, an unofficial hack is available here.) A similar update for 360s is "under investigation." Also an issue was a copy protection measure that limited the number of PCs a copy of the game could be installed on. That number is being upped, and machines will soon be able to be delicensed to free up a key. To help with these and other issues, a new team of support staff is being brought on to assist in the 2K forums.

[Via Shacknews]

JoystiqBioShock PC patch, other fixes on the way originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Aug 2007 08:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2kgamesbioshockpatchesPCXbox-360Fri, 24 Aug 2007 08:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Reminder: Global servers, DLC for Resistance coming June 7th]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/04/global-servers-dlc-for-resistance-delayed-till-7-june/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/04/global-servers-dlc-for-resistance-delayed-till-7-june/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/04/global-servers-dlc-for-resistance-delayed-till-7-june/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Aside from being an inexhaustible source of adorable cat pictures, the internet is responsible for allowing gamers to reach across their geographical borders, embrace a foreign culture... and then shoot it in the face. It's a noble use of technology, one that has until now been somewhat restricted in Insomniac's Resistance: Fall of Man. A new downloadable update meant to demolish regional restrictions and implement global multiplayer was initially due by the end of May, but was shifted to this Thursday.

Greg Philips of SCEA told CVG last week, "The reason for the delay is we (SCEA) needed a little extra time to get the global servers locked in and ready for thousands of players to come knocking. We would rather have a short delay and continue to deliver on our over the top, online experience." Apart from enabling men from all countries to fall, the update will introduce new multiplayer maps for purchase and "other enhancements" to the PS3's Chimera-blasting launch title. You'll be sure to see us online -- unless we're hiding around a corner with that lovely Bullseye gun.

[Via PS3 Fanboy]

JoystiqReminder: Global servers, DLC for Resistance coming June 7th originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Jun 2007 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActionFPSInsomniacMicrotransactionsPatchesPS3ResistanceResistance-Fall-of-ManSCESCEAShooterSonySony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericaMon, 04 Jun 2007 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Starfox 64 update restores historically accurate slowdown?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/30/rumor-starfox-64-update-restores-historically-accurate-slowdown/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/30/rumor-starfox-64-update-restores-historically-accurate-slowdown/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/30/rumor-starfox-64-update-restores-historically-accurate-slowdown/#commentsFiled under: , ,

No word if this is a real issue or a NeoGAF freakout, but if the perfect beauty of one of your Virtual Console games is in danger, it's our solemn duty to report on it. What is known is that Nintendo has issued an updated version of StarFox 64. What isn't known is what it does.

NeoGAFfer Nuclear Muffin (judging by the name, a level-headed character) reported that after downloading the update this morning, he found the game slowing down in the same way the original Nintendo 64 version. Again, no idea if this is true, or if it's a delusion created by someone trying to find an effect of this update, but it's terrifying if true.

Normally, we're all about accurate presentation of emulated games, but we have no problem with Nintendo fixing the resolution and speed of N64 games, because they totally need it. We really hope they haven't decided to unfix it.

JoystiqRumor: Starfox 64 update restores historically accurate slowdown? originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 Apr 2007 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>emulationfoxnintendonintendo wiiNintendoWiipatchpatchesrareslowdownstarstarfoxstarfox 64Starfox64updatesvcvirtualconsolewiiMon, 30 Apr 2007 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MLB 2K6 freezing bug drives ballers batty]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/13/mlb-2k6-freezing-bug-drives-ballers-batty/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/13/mlb-2k6-freezing-bug-drives-ballers-batty/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/13/mlb-2k6-freezing-bug-drives-ballers-batty/#comments
Just released MLB 2K6 is batting .000 with angry baseball fans due to a freezing bug that literally strikes you out of game. Already tagged by reviewers as an uninspired port of the Xbox version with minor graphical improvements, the title is now being grand slammed in the 2KSports forums for product testing that failed to cover the plate. Here's a typical post minus the expletives:

I mean not to be rude, but I paid hard-earned Money for this game ($60) and not to mention the system ($400) just to have it freeze-up. In my version of the freeze happens after striking someone out. It doesn't happen after every strike-out, but when it does my screen goes all black and the only way to get a picture back on my screen is to completely restart my system.

Perhaps aware that opening the season with a broken game isn't the best way pitch your newly exclusive Major League Baseball license, 2KSports has issued an official response with the usual mumbled apology and promise of a fix.

Folks, we've been Charlie hustled. This problem was not mentioned in any of the reviews that I read. Now we're supposed to sit on the bench and wait for a patch. According to one forum poster, the issue is related to the 360 hard drive and can be worked around by using a memory card. But people paid $60 to hit home runs, not half-assed hardware solutions. (He also says the same bug was present in NBA and NHL 2K6).

I loved MLB 2K5 like Barry Bonds loves shrunken nads, but so far 2KSport's Xbox 360 efforts have been one of the console's most disappointing foul balls. No company is more guilty of slapping some polygon paint on a port, rushing it out the door, and calling it next-gen. Now that their quality control has swung and missed,  it may be time to send this developer back to the minors until they figure out what we demand out of a next-gen sports game, particularly an exclusive license. Three games, three strikes.

On the plus side, freezing time may be the only way to keep the Phillies from sucking this year.

[Thanks JB]

JoystiqMLB 2K6 freezing bug drives ballers batty originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 Apr 2006 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bugspatchessportsThu, 13 Apr 2006 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CoD2.1: The Big Red Whatever]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/21/cod2-multi-player-patch-released/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/21/cod2-multi-player-patch-released/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/21/cod2-multi-player-patch-released/#commentsFiled under:


Reports from the western front confirm that the long-awaited Call of Duty 2 multi-player patch has finally been released-just in time for war-weary fans to not give a flying frag. The saga of this patch is as long and ugly as any WWII slog, including delays, fired forum moderators and pissed off PC gamers. Booting the game on your 360 now results in an auto-update that supposedly fixes CoD2's multiple issues. Initial testing by the Xboxic staff discovered the following improvements:

  • Can actively host a game now.
  • Lobbies fully implemented including game options and pre-game smack talk.
  • Hoster can kick players.
  • Private matches are allowed.
  • You can select any map of choice.
  • Score and time limits configurable.
  • Post-game lobby after the game is over.
  • Can invite players to game.
  • You can see enemy names in-game.
  • No noticeable lag continously disrupting games.
Unfortunately, the patch fails to address the one gameplay issue that will continue to haunt CoD2's field-dressed XBL experience, namely, Ghost Recon: Advanced Warfighter. Old games never die, they just fade away.

Are you finally hearing Infinity Ward's call to multiplayer duty? Who else thinks this patch is a day late and a dollar short?

[Thanks to multiple tipsters]

JoystiqCoD2.1: The Big Red Whatever originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Mar 2006 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Infinity WardInfinityWardpatchesTue, 21 Mar 2006 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Delayed 360 CoD2 patch screws PC gamers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/08/delayed-360-cod2-patch-screws-pc-gamers/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/08/delayed-360-cod2-patch-screws-pc-gamers/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/08/delayed-360-cod2-patch-screws-pc-gamers/#commentsFiled under:


An Infinite Waiting-excuse me- Infinity Ward Nation staff member calling himself Tally has posted an unofficial update on the anxiously awaited Call of Duty 2 multiplayer patch:

I am at pains to point out that this is NOT AN OFFICIAL ANNOUNCMENT

Im sure everyone is wondering why the patch is taking so long, so I thought Id share a little of what I know about the situation.

For those that dont know me, I also work at Infinity Ward Nation, as a staff member. I have spoken to some of the Developers at IW (makers of COD2), and have even spoken to Grant Collier, CEO for IW. So, as such, I am pretty close to whats going on.

As both Activision and IW have a HDA (Non Disclosure Agreement) with MS, they cannot divulge too much about the causes of the hold up. This explains why IW remains tight-liped about the whole deal. But, with a little detective work, I have pieced things together, and this is my estimate of the situation:

Activison and IW have an agreement with MS to roll out any patches for COD2 together - for both the 360 and the PC. As the 360 was shipped without an adequate update system in place, this has held things up - until an adequate update system for the 360 was implimented.

As most 360 users will tell you, as of this week, there is finally an Update patch available to all 360 users with a Live account. This is mandatory, so every 360 user has to download it. It will fit on either a mem card or a hd.

As the 360 has now been readied for any updates, rumor has it that the COD2 patch will be released this week. Im not totally confident that this rumor is accurate, but I do know that the patch is now very close. the PC patch has been ready for some time now, and now that the 360 is ready for updates, I think it safe to say it will probable be sometime this month.

This thread would seem to confirm both Tally's authenticity and the fact that PC gamers are pissed their game has to suffer because of the Xbox version.

[Via Xboxic]

JoystiqDelayed 360 CoD2 patch screws PC gamers originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Mar 2006 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>patchesWed, 08 Mar 2006 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Quake 4 patch 1.1 beta available]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/02/23/quake-4-patch-1-1-beta-available/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/02/23/quake-4-patch-1-1-beta-available/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/02/23/quake-4-patch-1-1-beta-available/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

A new patch for Quake 4 has been released in beta form, allowing keen Quake gamers to get their hands on a whole slew of updates. The focus of the patch? In id Software's words, "multiplayer is fixed", with the addition of voice chat and a lot of multiplayer tweaks from a forcemodel option to a one-minute tournament warning.

When this patch leaves beta, it will become a required update, bringing with it four new maps.

JoystiqQuake 4 patch 1.1 beta available originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Feb 2006 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betafpsMacmultiplayerpatchesPCquake 4Quake4Thu, 23 Feb 2006 11:00:00 EST