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[EA expects to publish for current systems through 2017]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/ea-expects-to-publish-for-current-systems-through-2017/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/ea-expects-to-publish-for-current-systems-through-2017/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/ea-expects-to-publish-for-current-systems-through-2017/#commentsEA CFO says it will publish currentgen until 2017, Star Wars deal gives a Battlefront 'opportunity' Speaking at the Stifel 2013 Technology Conference in New York this week, EA CFO Blake Jorgensen said that EA plans to publish games on the current generation of consoles through 2017 at least.

According to Gamespot's report, Jorgenson also discussed EA's exclusive Star Wars deal and specifically referenced fan favorite Star Wars: Battlefront. "The opportunity to do a new Battlefront, for example," Jorgensen said, "is very exciting." He added that none of EA's planned Star Wars games are film adaptations "per se," though their releases may coincide with upcoming movies.

JoystiqEA expects to publish for current systems through 2017 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 May 2013 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic-artsmicrosoftnba-live-13nba-live-14playstationplaystation-3playstation-4ps3releasesstar-warsxboxxbox-360xbox-oneThu, 23 May 2013 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony and Unity enter 'strategic partnership' for tools optimized for PlayStation platforms]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/21/sony-and-unity-team-up-to-create-unity-for-playstation/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/21/sony-and-unity-team-up-to-create-unity-for-playstation/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/21/sony-and-unity-team-up-to-create-unity-for-playstation/#comments Sony and Unity team up to create Unity for PlayStationSony has announced a partnership with Unity that will result in tools built for "optimized deployment" to the PlayStation 4, PS3, Vita and the PlayStation Mobile platform.

Games developed on the "Unity for PlayStation" platform will be able to take advantage of system-specific features - like the Vita's touchpads and cameras - and can integrate easily into the PlayStation Network. The tools also allow developers to more easily port titles across to other supported Unity devices, such as iOS and Android.

Sony's platforms already support Unity's tools, with Might & Delight's Pid and Funbits' Escape Plan built with the engine. The full Unity for PlayStation toolset will be available along with the rest of the PlayStation platform development tools later on this fall.

Continue reading Sony and Unity enter 'strategic partnership' for tools optimized for PlayStation platforms

JoystiqSony and Unity enter 'strategic partnership' for tools optimized for PlayStation platforms originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 21 Mar 2013 19:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>developersdevelopmentenginemobileplaystationplaystation-3playstation-4playstation-vitaps3sonyunityunity-for-playstationunity-game-enginevitaThu, 21 Mar 2013 19:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Blizzard announces Diablo 3 coming to PlayStation 3 and PlayStation 4]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/blizzard-announces-diablo-3-coming-to-playstation-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/blizzard-announces-diablo-3-coming-to-playstation-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/blizzard-announces-diablo-3-coming-to-playstation-4/#comments Blizzard announces Diablo 3 coming to PlayStation 4Blizzard Entertainment's Senior VP of Story and Franchise development Chris Metzen joined Sony during its PlayStation 4 announcement today to say that "Blizzard and Sony have entered into a strategic partnership, through which we will take over the world." The first product of that worldwide takeover will be a console port of Diablo 3, playable on both the PlayStation 3 and the PlayStation 4.

Metzen said the game is already up and running on the PlayStation 3, and will contain a split-screen mode for local gameplay. "In the coming months, we'll formally debut the game," he added, telling fans to look for more news at PAX East, coming up at the end of next month. "We're very excited about our partnership with Sony and what the future has in store for us," Metzen finished. Diablo 3 is coming to consoles, folks, whether you like it or not.

JoystiqBlizzard announces Diablo 3 coming to PlayStation 3 and PlayStation 4 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Feb 2013 19:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardblizzard-entertainmentconsolediablodiablo-3playstationplaystation-3playstation-4ps3Wed, 20 Feb 2013 19:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Toys 'R' Us offers 'buy one, get one for $1' game sale, lots more on Black Friday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/16/toys-r-us-offers-buy-one-get-one-for-1-game-sale-lots-mor/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/16/toys-r-us-offers-buy-one-get-one-for-1-game-sale-lots-mor/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/16/toys-r-us-offers-buy-one-get-one-for-1-game-sale-lots-mor/#comments Toys R Us offers 'buy one get one for one cent' game sale, lots more on Black FridayToys 'R' Us' Black Friday ad is 32 pages of red and green deals, and as usual, the toy store's got plenty of gaming deals ready for purchase, including a few deals on consoles.

The biggest hook is a big "buy one, get one for $1" sale going on, with dozens of games available for a buck each when you buy one at a standard price. In addition to lots of great DSi games, even modern Xbox 360 and PS3 games are on the list, including Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3, Call of Duty: Black Ops, and more current titles like Dishonored and Need for Speed: Most Wanted. All Wii U games are also "buy one, get one 40% off," so if you want to fill out your library for Nintendo's new console, there you go.

Read on for more choice Black Friday offerings. For the complete list of Toys 'R' Us deals, check out the retailer's Black Friday flyer.

Continue reading Toys 'R' Us offers 'buy one, get one for $1' game sale, lots more on Black Friday

JoystiqToys 'R' Us offers 'buy one, get one for $1' game sale, lots more on Black Friday originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Nov 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleblack-fridayblack-friday-2012black-friday-salesdealsetch-a-sketchgamesmicrosoftmobilenintendopcplaystationplaystation-3ps3salestoys-r-uswiiwii-uxboxxbox-360Fri, 16 Nov 2012 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation 3 redesigned again, launching Sept. 25 [updated with US date and price]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/19/playstation-3-redesigned-again-launching-later-this-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/19/playstation-3-redesigned-again-launching-later-this-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/19/playstation-3-redesigned-again-launching-later-this-year/#comments PlayStation 3 redesigned again, launching later this year

Update: The slimmer 250GB PS3 model (in black) will be available in the U.S. on September 25 for $269, bundled with the "Game of the Year" edition of Uncharted 3 and a voucher for $30 worth of content in the free-to-play shooter Dust 514, according to the PlayStation Blog. A non-bundled version of the new 250GB console will be priced at $249 eventually; however, a Sony press release notes that only bundles "will become available at launch timing."

The 500GB model will launch for $299 on October 30. The blog also revealed a special, limited edition Assassin's Creed 3 bundle was in the works, but did not announce price. In a press release, Sony noted that Japan will get the white model and that "other regions and countries will follow."

Europe and Hong Kong will also get their hands on a 12GB flash memory console on October 4, priced at €229 ($296). A 500GB unit with FIFA 13 will be available for €299 ($389).

Original Story: The PlayStation 3 is just a little addicted to plastic surgery, as Sony just announced at Tokyo Game Show the second major revision of the console.

The latest model is available in two flavors: 500GB and 250GB models in "Charcoal Black" and a 250GB system in "Classic White." The black model launches on October 4, while the white model hits on November 22. The black and white 250GB unit will retail for 24,980 yen ($317.61).

The new model is a 50% size reduction vs. original PS3, and 25% vs. the previous slim model. We hope to get a closer look at the new console after the conference to identify other changes made to the system.

The new model has been rumored since July, with further rumors speculating the console revision skipped an intended Gamescom debut due to there being too many boxes of the old console still in the marketplace.

Gallery: PS3 Super Slim (TGS 2012)

Continue reading PlayStation 3 redesigned again, launching Sept. 25 [updated with US date and price]

JoystiqPlayStation 3 redesigned again, launching Sept. 25 [updated with US date and price] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 Sep 2012 00:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstationplaystation-3ps3ps3-4000sonyTGS-2012Wed, 19 Sep 2012 00:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Sony considered download-only console, thought better of it]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/30/report-sony-considered-download-only-console-thought-better-of/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/30/report-sony-considered-download-only-console-thought-better-of/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/30/report-sony-considered-download-only-console-thought-better-of/#comments ImageSony's plans for its PlayStation 3 successor were once to build a download-only console devoid of an optical drive, according to "people familiar with the matter," as reported by the Wall Street Journal. That is no longer the case, however, as Sony's internal machinations decided that internet connections the world over are too inconsistent to sufficiently support a console incompatible with traditional physical media. Relying entirely on some future version of the PlayStation Network for distribution could potentially cripple the console in countries with less developed networking infrastructure.

It's also possible that Sony has learned a valuable lesson from its first foray into download-only gaming, the monumentally unsuccessful PSP Go. The Go's inability to play previously purchased UMD games, coupled with the fact that new releases hit the device weeks after they hit retail and that the system itself was more expensive than the comparatively more functional PSP-3000 spelled doom for the handheld.

The next PlayStation, in whatever form it ends up taking, is supposedly set to launch in 2013 with components built by AMD, according to the Wall Street Journal's sources. We've reached out to Sony for comment.

JoystiqReport: Sony considered download-only console, thought better of it originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 May 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>disc-drive-onlyon-demandoptical-driveplaystation-3playstation-4PS3sonyWed, 30 May 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Killzone 3 celebrates DLC release with triple XP weekend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/25/killzone-3-celebrates-dlc-release-with-triple-xp-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/25/killzone-3-celebrates-dlc-release-with-triple-xp-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/25/killzone-3-celebrates-dlc-release-with-triple-xp-weekend/#comments The Killzone 3 team is celebrating the release of the From the Ashes DLC this week with a triple XP party this weekend. From Friday to Sunday, all of the XP earned in multiplayer matches will be tripled, whether it's in the new DLC maps or just in the standard game.

Hopefully this also means that the Helghast forces will learn three times as fast that you just can't keep the ISA down. Sometimes that's a tough lesson to learn.

JoystiqKillzone 3 celebrates DLC release with triple XP weekend originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 25 Jun 2011 02:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3xpkillzoneKillzone-3playstationplaystation-3ps3psntriple-xpweekendSat, 25 Jun 2011 02:20:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation claims lead in Netflix devices, adding CinemaNow to PSN]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/06/playstation-claims-lead-in-netflix-devices-adding-cinemanow-to/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/06/playstation-claims-lead-in-netflix-devices-adding-cinemanow-to/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/06/playstation-claims-lead-in-netflix-devices-adding-cinemanow-to/#comments Jack Tretton is on stage right now at the Sony E3 press conference, and he says that the PlayStation 3 enjoys a (slightly unbelievable?) lead as the most popular device for Netflix users, apparently topping the Xbox 360, Wii, and the Apple TV, and accounting for nearly 30% of Netflix streams in one study. Tretton also announced that Sony would be adding the CinemaNow service to the PlayStation 3 in the future, giving users one more way to instantly watch video on demand on the console.

Tretton said that Sony would bring even more content onto the console soon, and "keep adding industry-defining entertainment experiences to PlayStation Network each step of the way."

JoystiqPlayStation claims lead in Netflix devices, adding CinemaNow to PSN originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 Jun 2011 20:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cinemanowjack-trettonplaystationplaystation-3ps3sonyMon, 06 Jun 2011 20:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Ratchet & Clank: All 4 One preview: Making teamwork work]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/13/ratchet-and-clank-all-4-one-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/13/ratchet-and-clank-all-4-one-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/13/ratchet-and-clank-all-4-one-preview/#comments In theory, it sounds like a great idea: Sit down with three other people and play Ratchet & Clank: All 4 One together. But in practice, four-player co-op can be chaotic and downright nasty: "Just hit the switch, dumbass! Gawd you suck at this game."

Cordial coordination is challenging enough when all four of you are on the couch together. But how often does that happen? A lot of players will be teaming up online -- with strangers, no less -- and that can often mean complete radio silence.

Insomniac is trying to design All 4 One to work in both cases, on the couch and online. "Certainly we think that both are extremely important," says gameplay programmer Mike McManus. "We don't want either to not work."

Gallery: Ratchet & Clank: All 4 One (4/13/11)

Continue reading Ratchet & Clank: All 4 One preview: Making teamwork work

JoystiqRatchet & Clank: All 4 One preview: Making teamwork work originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 Apr 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>insomniacinsomniac-gamesmike-mcmanusplaystationplaystation-3ps3Ratchet-and-Clank-All-4-OnesonyWed, 13 Apr 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Walmart selling 320 GB PS3 with Move for $350 shipped to store]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/21/walmart-selling-320-gb-ps3-with-move-for-350-shipped-to-store/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/21/walmart-selling-320-gb-ps3-with-move-for-350-shipped-to-store/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/21/walmart-selling-320-gb-ps3-with-move-for-350-shipped-to-store/#comments Amazon had the usually $400 350GB PS3 Move bundle for $50 off a while back, but now that that deal's ended, Walmart's in on the action. Right now, you can grab the bundle from its site for just $350 shipped to a store near you (a little more if you want it sent straight home). You even get a copy of Sports Champions along with it, so you can start swinging right away.

The bundle itself is usually $400, so if you missed the Amazon deal the first time around and have been meaning to pick one of these up, now's your chance.

[Thanks, Ahmed]

JoystiqWalmart selling 320 GB PS3 with Move for $350 shipped to store originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 Mar 2011 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>320gbplaystationplaystation-3playstation-moveps3sports-championsMon, 21 Mar 2011 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Kevin Butler account accidentally retweets PS3 exploit]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/10/kevin-butler-account-accidentally-retweets-ps3-exploit/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/10/kevin-butler-account-accidentally-retweets-ps3-exploit/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/10/kevin-butler-account-accidentally-retweets-ps3-exploit/#comments Oh, Kevin Butler. You seemed so perfect -- exactly the kind of PR icon that Sony needed, always saying and doing exactly the right thing for the company's image. You were always so in the know, always on top of the public pulse. Until Tuesday night, that is, when the Kevin Butler account on Twitter replied to what it thought was a random series of letters and numbers with a Battleship joke. Unfortunately, that code turned out to be the key once used to hack the PS3 through a USB dongle. In essence, the great KB helped to spread exactly the sort of information his company's been fighting to keep secret in court.

Of course, the tweet was quickly deleted. It wasn't that severe a leak anyway, since Sony's already fixed the exploit that it used and that key isn't the one being contested in the ongoing lawsuit. The real damage here is to KB's reputation. After deleting the tweet, whichever PR person runs the account quickly dived into a relatively harmless attempt to start a "#gamingis" trend. What, no snarky comeback or humorous braggadocio, KB? And here we thought he was the Vice President of Knowing What's Up.

JoystiqKevin Butler account accidentally retweets PS3 exploit originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Feb 2011 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hackskevin-butlerplaystationplaystation-3prps3sonytwitterThu, 10 Feb 2011 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix testing three different interfaces on PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/29/netflix-testing-three-different-interfaces-on-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/29/netflix-testing-three-different-interfaces-on-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/29/netflix-testing-three-different-interfaces-on-ps3/#comments If you ever load up the Netflix app on your PS3 and suddenly feel as if you're being experimented upon, here's why: Netflix is reportedly showing off three different user interfaces to users of its service on the PlayStation 3, in order to test out the various recommendations systems and how they're both created and delivered to users. Chief Product Officer Neil Hunt says the "Play" and "Add to Queue" buttons' size, placement, and functionality can vary from build to build, and even things like load times and streaming start times are being adjusted among the various test UIs running on real-life PS3s, providing direct feedback to the company about how customers use the video streaming app.

Hunt says he can boil down what they're learning to just three words: "Simple trumps complete." We'll make it easy for you, Netflix. Make one simple UI for all of us to use.

JoystiqNetflix testing three different interfaces on PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Nov 2010 23:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>interfaceneil-huntnetflixplaystationplaystation-3ps3testinguser-interfaceMon, 29 Nov 2010 23:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Insomniac to announce new game before PAX, demo it there]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/30/insomniac-to-announce-new-game-before-pax-demo-it-there/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/30/insomniac-to-announce-new-game-before-pax-demo-it-there/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/30/insomniac-to-announce-new-game-before-pax-demo-it-there/#commentsFiled under: , ,

In the latest Insomniac Games newsletter, the company hints that it will be releasing news about a brand new title in the coming weeks, specifically for the PlayStation 3, ruling out its multi-platform project with EA. "Sometime between now and the Penny-Arcade Expo over Labor Day weekend," says the newsletter, the Burbank-based studio will pull the curtain off of the project. And during PAX 2010 there will be a panel in the Serpent Theater on September 4 at 6:30 p.m., moderated by G4's Adam Sessler, that will see Insomniac "discuss (and demo!) our upcoming PlayStation 3 project."

So we can all agree that it's Resistance 3, right?

JoystiqInsomniac to announce new game before PAX, demo it there originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 Jul 2010 18:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adam-sesslerinsomniacinsomniac-gamespax-2010pax-prime-2010playstationplaystation-3ps3Resistance-3serpent-theaterFri, 30 Jul 2010 18:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Finding a new dimension for gaming at the 3D Gaming Summit]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/24/3d-gaming-summit/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/24/3d-gaming-summit/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/24/3d-gaming-summit/#comments A small crowd of movie and game producers met this week at Universal City in Los Angeles for the first-ever 3D Gaming Summit, to sit down and discuss the trend of 3D imaging in gaming and film. Much of the talk at the summit was speculative -- with almost no actual consumer devices on the market and nearly none within price range of the average consumer anyway, gaming in 3D isn't much more than an idea at this point. Most of the technology companies in attendance are still working to get content producers to use their systems to create games and films rather than selling hardware directly to consumers.

Still, the panels and discussions at the summit offered an interesting look at what many believe to be the eventual future of the industry. From a lunchtime interview with Mortal Kombat and Resident Evil director Paul W.S. Anderson to a Playstation Move demo (and a panel moderated by a Joystiq editor), the 3D Gaming Summit showed off a lot of guesswork, a few interesting demos, and a few big holes that will need to be filled if 3D gaming is going to ever take off.

Continue reading Finding a new dimension for gaming at the 3D Gaming Summit

JoystiqFinding a new dimension for gaming at the 3D Gaming Summit originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 24 Apr 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d-gaming-summit3d-gaming-summit-2010batman-arkham-asylumdave-perrydavid-coombesDSepic-gameseverquest-2gran-turismoinsomniacluis-gigliotimajesco-entertainmentmark-reinmetro-2033michael-pachtermike-actonmlb-10-the-showmortal-kombatNintendonintendo-3dspaul-ws-andersonplaystation-3resident-evilsonythqSat, 24 Apr 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony: 'Don't use your PS3' until internal clock bug is fixed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/01/sony-dont-use-your-ps3-until-internal-clock-bug-fixed/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/01/sony-dont-use-your-ps3-until-internal-clock-bug-fixed/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/01/sony-dont-use-your-ps3-until-internal-clock-bug-fixed/#comments
 After a night of radio silence, Sony has finally spoken up about the game-crashing issues currently plaguing non-Slim PS3 models. A post on PlayStation Blog has confirmed that the problems are "being caused by a bug in the clock functionality incorporated in the system." The statement puts a loose timeframe on a fix for the issues, saying, "we hope to resolve this problem within the next 24 hours."

Additionally, the PlayStation Blog post includes a word of warning to PS3 Phat owners: "if you have a model other than the new slim PS3, we advise that you do not use your PS3 system, as doing so may result in errors in some functionality, such as recording obtained Trophies, and not being able to restore certain data." (Read Sony's full statement after the break.)

We know you're curious to see what the console apocalypse looks like, but trust us -- it's just not worth it. We'll let you know when it's safe to turn your system back on.

Update: The issue has been resolved.

Continue reading Sony: 'Don't use your PS3' until internal clock bug is fixed

JoystiqSony: 'Don't use your PS3' until internal clock bug is fixed originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 01 Mar 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brokenbugbugsclockerrorerrorsinternal-clockinternal-clock-bugleap-yearplaystationplaystation-3ps3psapsnsonywarningMon, 01 Mar 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gearbox: Borderlands art style helped 'make a certain leap of faith']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/23/gearbox-borderlands-art-style-helped-make-a-certain-leap-of-fa/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/23/gearbox-borderlands-art-style-helped-make-a-certain-leap-of-fa/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/23/gearbox-borderlands-art-style-helped-make-a-certain-leap-of-fa/#comments The Borderlands crew at Gearbox Software is making the post-mortem interview rounds, and this time Aaron Thibault, Stephen Palmer and Matthew Armstrong stopped to chat with G4. The interview has some excellent insight into the making of the game: The team originally was finishing up the Halo PC port when they realized that Bungie had dynamically coded their guns, and wondered what you could do if you dynamically created guns from that code. "Halo meets Diablo" was the answer, and that was Gearbox's premise from the beginning.

They also talk about the famous art style change, and say that the current animated look actually helped players get into the game -- they could "make a certain leap of faith into an understanding that the crazier and wackier and more fun things can exist in this world." And they say that for future installments, they are taking player feedback into account: Both a mini-map and more levels are two things that they didn't quite expect such a call for, so it's a safe bet that we'll see those features in any future installments of the "important" franchise. Please?

JoystiqGearbox: Borderlands art style helped 'make a certain leap of faith' originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 23 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aaron-thibaultart styleArtStyleborderlandsg4gearboxgearbox-softwarehalointerviewmatthew-armstrongMicrosoftpatrick-klepekpcplaystation-3stephen-palmerwackyXbox-360Sat, 23 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Backbreaker trailer promises 'next-level' football]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/08/new-backbreaker-trailer-promises-next-level-football/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/08/new-backbreaker-trailer-promises-next-level-football/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/08/new-backbreaker-trailer-promises-next-level-football/#comments We haven't heard much about Backbreaker in a good year and a half, but the Euphoria Engine-powered football title (thinkThe Force Unleashed, with all of those Stormtroopers flying around) is still hitting first downs. It's now set for a release in spring of 2010 (ah, spring, when everyone's mind turns to football -- oh wait), and 505 Games has screenshots and a brand new trailer to share.

The game will boast both online and split-screen multiplayer, Arcade and Pro modes (the tougher one will have AI and visual assists switched off) and full team customization options, including a full logo editor. But of course the real star quarterback here is the physics engine -- while the video hints at some great dynamic tackling and movement, we'll have to wait and see if the gameplay provides some real innovation in the football genre.

Gallery: Backbreaker

JoystiqNew Backbreaker trailer promises 'next-level' football originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Jan 2010 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010505-gamesamerican-footballbackbreakerfootbalfootballMicrosoftplaystation-3screenshotssportsspringspring-2010trailervideoxbox-360Fri, 08 Jan 2010 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA['Cloudsurf' trademark joins wave of Sony cloud computing hints]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/05/cloudsurf-trademark-joins-wave-of-sony-cloud-computing-hints/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/05/cloudsurf-trademark-joins-wave-of-sony-cloud-computing-hints/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/05/cloudsurf-trademark-joins-wave-of-sony-cloud-computing-hints/#comments Sony has filed a trademark notice here in the U.S. for the word "Cloudsurf," and the trademark relates to a number of different products and services, including everything from audio players to game consoles to video cameras, as well as online distribution of games, music and television. In other words, it could be for anything that Sony has made or sold, ever.

Edge guesses that it could have something to do with online distribution or even storage via a subscription model, and you might remember that earlier last year, Sony trademarked "PS Cloud," then hinting at a "cloud computing" system to provide storage or processing over the Internet. Of course, companies file trademarks all the time, without any obligation to reveal or release whatever product they're working on. So right now, "Cloudsurf" is made up of nothing but thin air -- permeated, we'd imagine, by a floaty, visible mass of condensed water droplets.

Joystiq'Cloudsurf' trademark joins wave of Sony cloud computing hints originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Jan 2010 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cloud-computingcloud-strifecloudsurfinternetonlineplaystation-3processorps-cloudps-thankssonytrademarkvideo-camerasTue, 05 Jan 2010 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Unboxing the Final Fantasy XIII limited edition PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/16/unboxing-the-final-fantasy-xiii-limited-edition-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/16/unboxing-the-final-fantasy-xiii-limited-edition-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/16/unboxing-the-final-fantasy-xiii-limited-edition-ps3/#comments
Click to start the unboxing. Japanese gamers are braving the cold right now, waiting on line to pick up Final Fantasy XIII. Square Enix and Sony have partnered up to create a limited edition bundle that includes a copy of the game, a white controller, and a pink Lightning-emblazoned 250GB PS3 Slim system.

It's unlikely this system will ever be officially released outside of Asia. Unless you're looking to do some import shopping, these pics from Joystiq Japan's Ittousai are the closest you'll get to owning the first-ever special edition PS3 Slim.

Gallery: Final Fantasy XIII Limited Edition PS3

JoystiqUnboxing the Final Fantasy XIII limited edition PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-xiiijapanplaystation-3ps3ps3-slimunboxingWed, 16 Dec 2009 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[The PS3 Slim 'could have been made even smaller']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/15/the-ps3-slim-could-have-been-made-even-smaller/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/15/the-ps3-slim-could-have-been-made-even-smaller/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/15/the-ps3-slim-could-have-been-made-even-smaller/#comments We think the redesigned PS3 is small enough. However, Sony's Japanese designers, in their continuing desire to shrink things, noted that the PS3 Slim "could have been made even smaller."

Sony's executive VP of technology Masayuki Chatani spoke with Japanese newspaper Nikkei about the challenges of designing a slimmer PS3. The goal was not only to cut costs, but to expand its attractiveness to "an even wider range of users." Considering the Japanese penchant for small electronics, the original PS3's girth was certainly a limiting factor.

However, certain sacrifices would have been necessary for Sony to pursue an even smaller box. One option was to place "the power supply on the outside," much like Microsoft's Xbox 360 power brick. Taking yet another page from Microsoft, an even more drastic option considered was to remove the hard drive altogether. The alternatives -- Flash memory or virtual network storage -- proved to be too expensive, and too unreliable. Ultimately, the Sony team chose function over form. "One of the best features of the PS3 is that people can download games to the internal local storage unit and play comfortably." That reminds us -- we need a bigger couch.

[Via IGN]

JoystiqThe PS3 Slim 'could have been made even smaller' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hard-driveplaystation-3ps3ps3-slimsonyTue, 15 Dec 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony still loses about $40 on every PS3 Slim sold]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/11/sony-still-loses-about-40-on-every-ps3-slim-sold/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/11/sony-still-loses-about-40-on-every-ps3-slim-sold/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/11/sony-still-loses-about-40-on-every-ps3-slim-sold/#comments "It Only Does Everything"

Well, except make money. Three years after the launch of the original PS3, Sony has yet to profit from the hardware. It's getting close, though. The redesigned slim PlayStation 3 is smaller -- and thanks to the passage of time -- much cheaper to manufacture than the launch models, which lost Sony over $200 with each unit sold. According to iSuppli's teardown analysis, a current PS3 system costs $336.27 to make, about $500 cheaper than the first batch of consoles. With the system retailing for $300, Sony is still incurring at least a $40 loss per system, when you account for marketing and other additional costs. (This also means that Sony lost about $17.6 million over Black Friday week on PS3 hardware sales.)

The single most expensive component to the system is still Sony's proprietary Blu-ray disc drive, which is estimated to cost about $66 to make. Other components have dropped significantly in price thanks to a switch from 65nm conductors to 45nm. The end result is a far more power-efficient system that requires less power and cooling technologies. "In light of these factors, the PlayStation 3 probably is already at or near the tipping point for profitability," iSuppli's Andrew Rassweiler added. So, if for some reason you need Sony Corp to lose money, you better rush and buy a PS3 now before they make those things profitable!

[Via CNET]

JoystiqSony still loses about $40 on every PS3 Slim sold originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 Dec 2009 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>costhardwareisuppliplaystation-3ps3teardownFri, 11 Dec 2009 20:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on: Netflix on PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/06/hands-on-netflix-on-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/06/hands-on-netflix-on-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/06/hands-on-netflix-on-ps3/#comments Many Netflix subscribers will find a rather inconspicuous red envelope in the mail today. It may look like a standard Netflix package, but inside PS3 owners will discover the "Instant Streaming Disc" which enables Netflix's instant streaming service on Sony's console.

We've embedded a video overview of the service above. We'll admit that there are a few qualms with the presentation so far. First, the activation process is slow and requires the use of a computer -- there is no way to activate Netflix directly from the PS3. (You won't be able to use the PS3 internet browser for activation purposes either.) Second, the loading of cover art is suspiciously slow. Finally, there is no way to directly manage your Queue from the interface. While you'll be able to browse various categories, there is no Search capability. One benefit the PS3 has over the 360 in this regard is the built-in browser. You will be able to use the PS3's internet browser to manage your Queue. It's a baffling additional step, but it certainly is an added convenience. (ProTip: Use SELECT to add a bookmark to your PS3 internet browser.)

While the previous video we posted suggested otherwise, we can confirm that HD video works on PS3, and it works well. In fact, it's a bit faster than watching SD content, simply because you won't have to wait for the PS3 to switch between resolution modes. When browsing your queue, look for a tiny HD icon at the bottom of the screen to see if it will play in high-def. (The selection can be quite limited.) When judging the overall experience, however, we'd say starting movies required a longer buffer than when using the service on the 360 or PC. Netflix is a terrific value-add for the PlayStation 3, but minor interface issues make it clear that there's a lot of room for improvement -- perhaps when Netflix becomes a standard built-in feature of the OS next year?

JoystiqHands-on: Netflix on PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 16:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hands-onnetflixplaystation-3ps3streamingFri, 06 Nov 2009 16:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Analyst: 'Sony was saved by the success of the Wii']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/05/analyst-sony-was-saved-by-the-success-of-the-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/05/analyst-sony-was-saved-by-the-success-of-the-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/05/analyst-sony-was-saved-by-the-success-of-the-wii/#comments If you haven't heard, the PlayStation Wii is so successful, it pretty much prints money. Wait, Sony didn't make the Wii? Then how did the market analysts of DFC Intelligence come to the conclusion that "Sony was saved by the success of the Wii?"

According to DFC, the Wii's mainstream appeal forced Microsoft into a successful, but not entirely dominant position. "The main danger Sony faced was that the Xbox 360 would become embedded as the system of choice. Instead consumers flocked to the Nintendo Wii. The Xbox 360 had solid sales, but they have not been enough to give Microsoft anywhere near a breakout market position," the report explains.

Should enthusiasm for the Wii wane this holiday season, the recent price drop, coupled with with impending release of God of War III, finally positions the PS3 as a viable choice for mainstream consumers, the report notes. EEDAR's Jesse Divnich agrees, pointing out that Sony can finally utilize its leverage from the previous generation. "People who purchase a PS2 are more likely to purchase a PS3 in the future. Consumers, believe it or not, are pretty loyal."

Three years after the launch of the PS3, Blu-ray is also finally becoming a marketable feature for mainstream consumers, the report argues. "This holiday season Blu-ray movies are finally getting a major focus at retail ... Blu-ray clearly now becomes a strong selling point for the PlayStation 3." Undoubtedly, SCEA will create an ad that focuses on this aspect of the system that "only does everything."

While DFC's report comes off as incredibly bullish, it's understandable to see why there's some doubt over Sony's ability to capitalize on the moment. Let's not forget, this is a company that managed to fall from first to last place in the course of a year. "The cards are in Sony's favor and now is the time to make the most of them ... Now is the time for Sony to shine ... or else."

[Via CVG]

Source - Is it Time for the PlayStation 3 to Shine?
Source - How the venerable PlayStation 2 made it to 9 years old

JoystiqAnalyst: 'Sony was saved by the success of the Wii' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analystdfc-intelligenceeedarjesse-divnichplaystationplaystation-3ps3sonywiiThu, 05 Nov 2009 00:44:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: 250GB PS3 available now]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/03/psa-250gb-ps3-available-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/03/psa-250gb-ps3-available-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/03/psa-250gb-ps3-available-now/#comments Just a quick reminder to let everyone know that the 250GB PlayStation 3 is available now in North America. The package runs $349 and crams a console, 250GB hard drive, controller and composite AV cables into the box. As the more astute readers have no doubt realized, the only thing different from the 120GB model is the 250GB hard drive. Still, as Gaming Bits points out, that's more than twice the storage for an extra $50 over the $299 model.

Of course, with Black Friday sales just a few weeks away, you might consider waiting to see what deals will be available before taking the plunge.

JoystiqPSA: 250GB PS3 available now originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>250gbconsoleplaystation-3ps3ps3-slimsonyTue, 03 Nov 2009 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[PLAYSTATION 3 logo replaced due to 'visibility' issues]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/24/playstation-3-logo-replaced-due-to-visibility-issues/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/24/playstation-3-logo-replaced-due-to-visibility-issues/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/24/playstation-3-logo-replaced-due-to-visibility-issues/#comments The system wasn't the only thing that got smaller when Sony officially unveiled the slimmer PS3. The entire PlayStation branding has been reworked: the system is no longer PLAYSTATION 3 (all caps), it's PlayStation 3. The logo no longer uses the Spider-Man font to spell out the entire system name. Instead, marketing materials now feature three simple characters: "PS3."

Kaz Hirai explained the meaning behind the change to Times Online. The new logo represents a "reset" of sorts. Hirai explains that he wanted it to represent "going back to our roots."

There are practical applications to a revised logo, as well. "When you have PlayStation 3 spelt out, the aspect ratio was such that if you wanted it on a billboard it became tiny. It didn't work in terms of visibility," he admitted. We took a look back to this Call of Duty 4 TV ad to emphasize the difference: the Xbox 360 logo is more than twice as large as the now-outdated PLAYSTATION 3 logo. If you watched this ad on a SDTV, you probably wouldn't even notice the PS3 logo at all! While we're not entirely sure the new logo will have an effect on sales, we (and other games bloggers) are glad to finally give our CAPS LOCK keys a break. Thanks, Sony.

JoystiqPLAYSTATION 3 logo replaced due to 'visibility' issues originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>caps-lockkaz-hirailogomarketingplaystationplaystation-3ps3sonyMon, 24 Aug 2009 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 Slim gains ability to bitstream Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD MA]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/21/ps3-slim-gains-ability-to-bitstream-dolby-truehd-dts-hd-ma/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/21/ps3-slim-gains-ability-to-bitstream-dolby-truehd-dts-hd-ma/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/21/ps3-slim-gains-ability-to-bitstream-dolby-truehd-dts-hd-ma/#comments
What can't the PS3 Slim do? [Play PS2 games? Run Linux? - Bitter Ed.] Sony's upcoming revised PlayStation 3 may be cheaper than a launch system, but it's already gaining a few very small, almost inconsequential features that help push it past the last generation of PS3s. In addition to the PlayStation 3's connectivity with Bravia televisions, the new PS3 will also be able to output Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio via bitstream.

Now, before you go chucking your old PS3 systems out the window saying "OMG it's totally worthless!" remember this: you should actually know what bitstream is and what it means to the average consumer. First-generation PS3s can output in TrueHD and DTS-HD MA, but they can only do so through linear PCM. While this works quite well for most receivers, some audiophiles need support for bitstream audio when handling uncompressed sound. If you're already getting confused by the terminology, fret not: the new PS3 has nothing you can really benefit from.

JoystiqPS3 Slim gains ability to bitstream Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD MA originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Aug 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bitstreamdolby-truehddts-hddts-hdmalpcmplaystation-3ps3ps3-slimFri, 21 Aug 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony: Blu-ray will always be part of PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/12/sony-blu-ray-will-always-be-part-of-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/12/sony-blu-ray-will-always-be-part-of-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/12/sony-blu-ray-will-always-be-part-of-ps3/#commentsLast month, Janco analyst Mike Hickey predicted a PS3 price drop, driven by a new, cheaper model without a Blu-ray drive. In a statement to Silicon Alley Insider, Sony's Kim Nguyen took on the new hardware rumor, basically killing it for anyone who believes Sony PR: "That would pretty much destroy the PS3's backbone, our games were built on Blu-ray." Nguyen then said the fairly clear, "Quote that: Blu-ray will always be part of PS3." While a cheaper PS3 may be nice, we really don't think Sony would want to harm its movie business by taking the Blu-ray capability out of its best-known Blu-ray player.

Sony also denied the price drop in general, as well as an annual fee for an online gaming service. "Online gaming is like a First Amendment right," Sony's Susan Panico said.

[Via VG247]

JoystiqSony: Blu-ray will always be part of PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Mar 2009 11:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blu-rayjancojanco-partnersmike-hickeyplaystation-3price-cutThu, 12 Mar 2009 11:03:00 EST<![CDATA[EA's Glen Schofield hopes Sony can 'figure it out' ]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/03/eas-glen-schofield-hopes-sony-can-figure-it-out/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/03/eas-glen-schofield-hopes-sony-can-figure-it-out/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/03/eas-glen-schofield-hopes-sony-can-figure-it-out/#commentsSpeaking to GI.biz, EA Redwood Shores manager Glen Schofield expressed hope that Sony can figure out what to do with PS3's relatively high price tag in a time of economic woe. The conglomerate faces massive losses from its computer entertainment division and declining sales for its flagship console, but Sony doesn't seem to see a problem. Some suggest a price cut would be beneficial (and believe is actually on the way), but Schofield isn't sure it's the best direction: "You know, I can't tell them what to do. I don't know their finances."

So what is Sony to do? It seems like the company is caught between a rock and a hard place. "They've been such a great, great partner," said Schofield. "I hope they get out of this and they figure it out and they're around for a long time." If outsiders like Schofield are worried for Sony ... imagine what its employees are feeling.

JoystiqEA's Glen Schofield hopes Sony can 'figure it out' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Mar 2009 19:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesseaea-redwood-shoresElectronic-Artsglen-schofieldplaystationplaystation-3ps3redwood-shoressonyTue, 03 Mar 2009 19:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Analyst: PS3 price cut could happen very soon]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/25/analyst-ps3-price-cut-could-happen-very-soon/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/25/analyst-ps3-price-cut-could-happen-very-soon/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/25/analyst-ps3-price-cut-could-happen-very-soon/#comments
According to Janco analyst Mike Hickey, Sony could be set to announce a new, lower price point for the PS3 in the next few days. He says Sony needs to slash $100 off the price of the console to "effectively restart unit velocity at retail." He sees this cut taking effect in "April or by June at the latest." Without the cut, he predicts PS3 sales will continue to steadily decline.

There's also speculation regarding a potential Blu-ray-less PS3, which would "enable them to make the aforementioned hardware price reduction," though that sounds kind of ridiculous. Without all of that Blu-ray goodness, how are you supposed to play any software on the thing? It's not like people will go running out to buy a cheaper PS3 that will only play PS2, PSOne and PSN games, after all.

[Via Yahoo Tech]

JoystiqAnalyst: PS3 price cut could happen very soon originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Feb 2009 11:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jancojanco-partnersmike-hickeyplaystation-3playstation3priceprice-cutpricecutsonysony-playstation-3sony-ps3Wed, 25 Feb 2009 11:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony: PSN accounts surpass 20 million worldwide]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/25/sony-psn-accounts-surpass-20-million-worldwide/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/25/sony-psn-accounts-surpass-20-million-worldwide/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/25/sony-psn-accounts-surpass-20-million-worldwide/#comments
Stat-crunching accountants emerged from beneath their desks this morning with the latest tally of accounts piling up on PlayStation Network. Unsatisfied with last month's torrent of PSN stats, Sony announced today that more than 20 million accounts have been registered since the service first went live in Japan on November 11, 2006.

The number reflects an increase over the 17 million accounts boasted during Sony's CES 2009 keynote address in January, and similarly includes users across the PS3, PSP and official website. Sony also notes that over $180 million has been spent by PSN users on more than 380 million different pieces of digital content. There, now with the morning bean-counting out of the way, we're off for our morning jog though the streets of Home (there's more than 4 million of us on there now, you know).

JoystiqSony: PSN accounts surpass 20 million worldwide originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Feb 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>homeplaystation-3playstation-homeplaystation-networkplaystation-storepsnsonyWed, 25 Feb 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A2M still wants gamers to get 'Wet']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/28/a2m-still-wants-gamers-to-get-wet/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/28/a2m-still-wants-gamers-to-get-wet/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/28/a2m-still-wants-gamers-to-get-wet/#commentsFiled under: ,

A2M still wants to get gamers Wet, despite the fact that the title doesn't have a publisher. A casualty of the Activision Blizzard merger, Wet was one of the titles drowned out of a Sierra lineup that included Ghostbusters and Brütal Legend.

In an interview with Edge, A2M ?senior artistic technical director, David Lightbrown, described Wet as an acrobatic shooter. Gameplay will allow players to perform various acrobatic moves while blasting foes away, but instead of the "combo heavy approach" found in Devil May Cry, A2M wants players to feel rewarded for utilizing acrobatics. Wet has been designed as an arena-style experience, making it at least somewhat similar to Devil May Cry's "lock you in the room until the monsters are dead" approach.

Gallery: WET

JoystiqA2M still wants gamers to get 'Wet' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Jan 2009 01:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a2mplaystation-3PS3wetxbox-360Wed, 28 Jan 2009 01:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony warns of $2.9 billion annual loss, reveals restructuring plan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/22/sony-warns-of-2-9-billion-annual-loss-reveals-restructuring-pl/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/22/sony-warns-of-2-9-billion-annual-loss-reveals-restructuring-pl/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/22/sony-warns-of-2-9-billion-annual-loss-reveals-restructuring-pl/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

If you're an overpaid, television design director reading this from a battery-powered, mid-sized LCD panel, you're about to have a very bad day. After warning that it would post a record $2.9 billion annual operating loss due to weakening demand and a mightier yen, Sony Corp. has unveiled plans to significantly restructure its operations, not to mention that stupid economy's face.

According to Reuters, the plan is to cut costs by 250 billion yen by March 2010, a move that would see the end of TV manufacturing and design at one plant in Japan and a worldwide reduction in TV design's headcount by 30 percent. Sony also plans to consolidate resources devoted to batteries (we hope the "anti-explosion" division won't be too hard hit) and small and mid-size LCDs. The salaries going to directors and managers are also expected to be cut.

See, we told you you'd be having a bad day.

JoystiqSony warns of $2.9 billion annual loss, reveals restructuring plan originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 22 Jan 2009 08:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstationplaystation-2playstation-3PS2PS3pspSonyThu, 22 Jan 2009 08:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony's Kaz Hirai delusional, sees Sony as industry leader, Nintendo no competition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/20/sonys-kaz-hirai-delusional-sees-sony-as-industry-leader-ninte/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/20/sonys-kaz-hirai-delusional-sees-sony-as-industry-leader-ninte/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/20/sonys-kaz-hirai-delusional-sees-sony-as-industry-leader-ninte/#commentsFiled under:

Sony's Kaz Hirai must be off his meds, because he's talking like the PS3 is the one out there selling like hotcakes. Okay, we'll concede that Russia may be more receptive to your products, but on a global scale, the sales figures aren't even comparable. So, what gives?

"This is not meant in terms of numbers, or who's got the biggest install base, or who's selling most in any particular week or month, but I'd like to think that we continue official leadership in this industry," he said. Uh, okay, well how would you measure leadership other than success? In terms of Nintendo and their competition with Sony, Kaz had more bizarre things to say. "It's difficult to talk about Nintendo, because we don't look at their console as being a competitor," he said. "They're a different world, and we operate in our world - that's the kind of way I look at things."

Kaz is, uh, quite delusional, if we may say so. Relax, Kaz. At least you have your PS2 sales to lean on. No need to create fantasy worlds for your mind to live in.

[Via Go Nintendo]

JoystiqSony's Kaz Hirai delusional, sees Sony as industry leader, Nintendo no competition originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Jan 2009 18:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kaz-hiraiplaystationplaystation-3ps2ps3sonysony-ps3Tue, 20 Jan 2009 18:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony claims Xbox 360 'lacks longevity']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/20/sony-claims-xbox-360-lacks-longevity/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/20/sony-claims-xbox-360-lacks-longevity/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/20/sony-claims-xbox-360-lacks-longevity/#commentsFiled under:

Full of vitality, vigor and boastful confidence, Sony Computer Entertainment's chairmen Kazuo Hirai wants it known that after all is said, the Playstation 3 will remain on top thanks - in part - to the Xbox "lacking longevity." Ouch.

"You need a word that describes something that lacks longevity," Hirai said when describing the Xbox, adding that Microsoft "never had a console that's been on the market for more than four or five years and we've committed to a ten year life cycle, so you do the math." Those be confident remarks, especially in the wake of not so jolly NPD sales figures as of late. But who are we to judge?

JoystiqSony claims Xbox 360 'lacks longevity' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Jan 2009 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>console-warsmicrosoftplaystation-3sonyTue, 20 Jan 2009 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ten year hardware life makes sense in this economy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/20/ten-year-hardware-life-makes-sense-in-this-economy/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/20/ten-year-hardware-life-makes-sense-in-this-economy/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/20/ten-year-hardware-life-makes-sense-in-this-economy/#commentsFiled under:

When Sony touted PS3 as a "ten year" machine, critics and gamers were quick to laugh it off as PR jargon. However, Sony has proven with the PS2 that they're capable of making a ten-year system. Ed Barton, analyst for Screen Digest, reminds gamers that God of War II released seven years into the console life and it "stands up pretty well to a lot of current generation games."

"A hardware transition is a very expensive and traumatic experience for the entire industry and its consumers," he said. "I don't see why people wouldn't like the idea of any of the console manufacturers supporting a platform for ten years." We agree with Barton. Sony's plan for a ten year system truly makes sense, especially in the current economic environment. Current-generation systems still have a long way to go in terms of being affordable to the masses. Game development is already plenty expensive this console cycle -- if the industry rushes too soon into a new generation, how much more expensive will it be?

Console launches can cost "$3-5 billion," and with the economic climate right now, it's unlikely any company -- either Sony or Microsoft -- will want to jump into a new console cycle any time soon. For now, it looks like Sony's ten year plan with the PS3 is a pretty smart one. Kaz Hirai would agree.

JoystiqTen year hardware life makes sense in this economy originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Jan 2009 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analysted-bartonplaystation-3ps3sonyTue, 20 Jan 2009 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 games to look for in 2009]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/05/ps3-games-to-look-for-in-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/05/ps3-games-to-look-for-in-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/05/ps3-games-to-look-for-in-2009/#commentsFiled under:


2008 was "The Year of the PS3?" Pfft. Excuse me, but even PS3's fantastic 2008 library won't be able to compete with the likes of 2009. In one year, you'll see the likes of Killzone 2, Uncharted 2 and Heavy Rain. And there's tons of other exclusives, PlayStation Network titles, and third party titles that are bound for the system. (And to think, there are still games that haven't been revealed yet!)

The following list includes games that are currently scheduled for a 2009 release. However, as was the case in 2008, some of these games may stumble into delays. The list is broken up in order, with PS3 exclusives coming first. (And boy, are there a lot!)

JoystiqPS3 games to look for in 2009 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Jan 2009 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009joystiqfeaturesplaystation-3ps3Mon, 05 Jan 2009 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 Amazon Gold Box event kicks off today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/18/ps3-amazon-gold-box-event-kicks-off-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/18/ps3-amazon-gold-box-event-kicks-off-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/18/ps3-amazon-gold-box-event-kicks-off-today/#commentsFiled under: ,


[Update: Slickdeals has uncovered yet another promotion: this offer allows you to select one game, one Blu-ray movie (as low as $12.99), and get a free Blu-ray disc remote for free. Make sure you enter the code PS3BDREM during checkout. The deal is right here.]

Here comes another set of Amazon PS3 Gold Box deals. This time around the offering will be a mix of games and Blu-rays. Kicking things off is Motorstorm: Pacific Rift for $39.98 (deal is over -- replacing it is Fallout 3 for $49.98) They also have a deal where if you purchase the 160 GB Uncharted: Drake's Fortune Pack for $449.98, you'll get a free Blu-ray disc remote for free. Both offers are limited to one per household and only while supplies last.

The nine remaining Lighting Deals are offered only for a couple of hours or until they are sold out. Hints at what each item will be are provided after the jump -- wanna try and guess what they'll be in the comments? The deals will go live at each corresponding time. We'll update this post throughout the day with the identity of each item and the price, so stay tuned:
  • It's over!

JoystiqPS3 Amazon Gold Box event kicks off today originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 18 Dec 2008 04:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deal-of-the-daydealsplaystation-3ps3Thu, 18 Dec 2008 04:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix: 360 easier to develop on than the PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/16/square-enix-360-easier-to-develop-on-that-the-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/16/square-enix-360-easier-to-develop-on-that-the-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/16/square-enix-360-easier-to-develop-on-that-the-ps3/#commentsFiled under:


In the latest issue of OXM, Square Enix developer Hiroshi Takai has admitted the unimaginable ... the Xbox 360 is easier to develop on than the Playstation 3. Even admitting that he hopes his next project is on the 360. Gasp! Shock! Awe!

"It's been the team's first time working with Xbox 360 and the Unreal Engine," said Takai who worked on the currently 360 exclusive Last Remnant, adding that the Xbox is "a lot easier to work with than PlayStation 3." But really, didn't we already know that? Here's to hoping that our Final Fantasy is OMG jaw-droppingly more amazing than the PS3 version. Because we're selfish and that's just how we roll.

JoystiqSquare Enix: 360 easier to develop on than the PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 16 Dec 2008 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>last-remnantplaystation-3sonysquaresquare-enixTue, 16 Dec 2008 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Deal: Buy PS3 80GB get Dark Knight and Resistance 2 CE free [Update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/09/deal-buy-ps3-80gb-get-dark-knight-and-resistance-2-ce-free/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/09/deal-buy-ps3-80gb-get-dark-knight-and-resistance-2-ce-free/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/09/deal-buy-ps3-80gb-get-dark-knight-and-resistance-2-ce-free/#commentsFiled under: ,


[Update: All gone already!]

Amazon is offering a free copy of The Dark Knight on Blu-ray and Resistance 2 Collector's Edition with the purchase of a PlayStation 3 80GB for $399.99 with free shipping. Just click here, add all three items to your cart, then enter the coupon code PSKNIGHT during checkout.

The weird thing is, some parts of the site are claiming the deal is valid for today (December 9th) only while the official rules are stating the offer is "valid 12 AM Pacific time, December 9, 2008, through 11:59 PM. Pacific time, December 10, 2008." Our suggestion? If you are interested, take advantage of this today and not wait until tomorrow to find out if the offer is still valid. The deal is right through here.

[Via Slickdeals]

JoystiqDeal: Buy PS3 80GB get Dark Knight and Resistance 2 CE free [Update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Dec 2008 15:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blu-raydark-knightinsomniacinsomniac-gamesplaystation-3ps3resistance-2the-dark-knightTue, 09 Dec 2008 15:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Top 5 best-selling PS3 games since its launch in Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/08/top-5-best-selling-ps3-games-since-its-launch-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/08/top-5-best-selling-ps3-games-since-its-launch-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/08/top-5-best-selling-ps3-games-since-its-launch-in-japan/#commentsFiled under:


To celebrate the 2nd anniversary of the PlayStation 3, Weekly Famitsu takes a look back at some of the big events relating to Sony's console since its launch. One of the most interesting portions of their feature is the part where Entertain reveals the top 5 best-selling titles in Japan so far:
  1. Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots -- 671,706
  2. Minna no Golf 5 (Hot Shots Golf: Out of Bounds) -- 408,175
  3. Shin Sangoku Musou 5 (Dynasty Warriors 6) -- 371,443
  4. Gundam Musou (Dynasty Warriors: Gundam) -- 317,580
  5. World Soccer Winning Eleven 2008 (Pro Evolution Soccer 2008) -- 316,533
Not too many surprises here -- the Japanese sure love the Dynasty Warriors franchise. Furthermore, it was revealed that the PS3 itself has sold 2,469,448 units since its Japanese debut. Also worth noting is the fact that 476,334 copies of MGS4 were sold during the first 4 days of its launch, meaning almost 71% of the copies were snatched up during that time. Did any of these games surprise you guys?

JoystiqTop 5 best-selling PS3 games since its launch in Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Dec 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>famitsukonamimetal-gear-solid-4playstation-3ps3Mon, 08 Dec 2008 12:30:00 EST