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[Mad Catz shows off MLG Pro controller at CES, for the discerning button pusher]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/17/mad-catz-shows-off-mlg-pro-controller-at-ces-for-the-discerning/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/17/mad-catz-shows-off-mlg-pro-controller-at-ces-for-the-discerning/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/17/mad-catz-shows-off-mlg-pro-controller-at-ces-for-the-discerning/#comments
A controller is a controller is a controller. The most innovative additions to console controllers these days usually involve an extra turbo switch, or maybe a fan in the handles.

Mad Catz' new MLG Pro Circuit Controller stands out, and was first shown off at CES 2012 last week. Mad Catz worked with Major League Gaming players and other gamers to figure out just what it is they wanted a controller to do, and rather than just add some new lights (or those fans), they took a few good steps forward.

The analogue sticks and D-pads are fully removable and customizable, and the controller comes with all sorts of possibilities. With this controller, you can implement the layout you want.

Continue reading Mad Catz shows off MLG Pro controller at CES, for the discerning button pusher

JoystiqMad Catz shows off MLG Pro controller at CES, for the discerning button pusher originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buttonscesces-2012controllercustomizabledpadjoysticksmad-catzmadcatzmicrosoftmlgpcplaystationprops3xboxTue, 17 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Ars Technica Mole foretells PS3 and 360 price drops in fall]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/26/rumor-ars-technica-mole-foretells-ps3-and-360-price-drop-in-fal/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/26/rumor-ars-technica-mole-foretells-ps3-and-360-price-drop-in-fal/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/26/rumor-ars-technica-mole-foretells-ps3-and-360-price-drop-in-fal/#comments
Yes, we know -- another console price drop story. Our contempt rivals your own, we assure you. However, this time around, the report comes from a source that's proven to be eerily accurate on hardware announcements in the past -- Ars Technica's unnamed "mole," a prophetic figure who managed to predict the capabilities of the PSP Go, the release of the red Resident Evil 5 Xbox 360 bundle and, most notably, last fall's universal 360 price cut.

On the Sony front, the mole is claiming that the 80GB PS3 will become scarce over the next two months, being mostly replaced by the 160GB model. As the larger model continues to sell into the fall, Sony will supposedly simultaneously announce the oft-rumored PS3 Slim and the even more oft-rumored price cut. The mole was unable to discern the exact amount that would be shaved off the price of the console, but was confident it would provide Sony with a much-needed sales boost.

For Microsoft, the mole expects the Pro system to be ushered off store shelves with the help of a few attractive Pro bundles which will crop up over the next few months. The Pro will be replaced by the 120GB Elite, which will supposedly undergo a price cut in September, followed by the release of its own bundles in October. With downloadable titles becoming a focus for both companies, turning the spotlight on consoles with larger hard drives makes sense -- but only time will tell if the Ars mole's sterling predictive reputation will persevere.

JoystiqRumor: Ars Technica Mole foretells PS3 and 360 price drops in fall originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Jun 2009 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ars-technicaconsoleeliteMicrosoftmoleprice-cutprops3-slimrumorXbox-360Fri, 26 Jun 2009 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Lucky Europe receives 'Best of Halo' Xbox 360 bundle]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/29/lucky-europe-receives-best-of-halo-xbox-360-bundle/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/29/lucky-europe-receives-best-of-halo-xbox-360-bundle/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/29/lucky-europe-receives-best-of-halo-xbox-360-bundle/#commentsBecause Halo Wars is in dire need of more promotion and marketing (not really), Microsoft will be releasing a special edition Xbox 360 console dubbed the "Best of Halo edition". Swedish retailer Webhallen has the listing, mentioning the bundle will ship February 27th and will include all the standard 360 Pro amenities (60GB HDD, wireless controller, headset, cables, etc.) with the addition of both Halo 3 and Halo Wars. And for 2795 kr or about $350 USD, it's actually a decent deal.

As far as we know, Europe will be the only market this Best of Halo Xbox 360 will see a release in. But that doesn't mean Stateside fanboys can't keep their fingers crossed and continue to pray to the prophets above.

[Via Teamxbox]

JoystiqLucky Europe receives 'Best of Halo' Xbox 360 bundle originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Jan 2009 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bungiebungie-studiosensembleensemble-studioshalo-3halo-warshardwareprox3f-twitterxbox-360Thu, 29 Jan 2009 09:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Big Xbox 360 deals from Dell]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/16/big-xbox-360-deals-from-dell/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/16/big-xbox-360-deals-from-dell/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/16/big-xbox-360-deals-from-dell/#commentsFiled under:


Not so uncharacteristically, Dell.com is offering up holiday Xbox 360 console savings across the 360's entire console lineup. They're selling the newly released Xbox 360 holiday bundles at a discounted price where you can save $30 on a new Xbox 360 Arcade, $50 on a Pro and $70 on an Elite. Click the links below, enter the coupon code supplied and make your purchase before October 23rd. Saving money is a good thing.
[Via Engadget, Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

JoystiqBig Xbox 360 deals from Dell originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Oct 2008 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcadedealsdelleliteproxbox-360Thu, 16 Oct 2008 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[MS announces holiday bundles, free Netflix trial]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/09/ms-announces-holiday-bundles-free-netflix-trial/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/09/ms-announces-holiday-bundles-free-netflix-trial/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/09/ms-announces-holiday-bundles-free-netflix-trial/#commentsFiled under:


News coming out of the Tokyo Game Show is Microsoft's announcement of the once rumored Xbox 360 holiday bundles that'll be releasing to retail this month. And note that all 360 console SKUs come with at least one free game.

The $199 Xbox 360 Arcade holiday bundle comes with SEGA Superstars Tennis and both the $299 Xbox 360 Pro and $399 Xbox 360 Elite consoles come bundled with LEGO Indiana Jones and Kung Fu Panda this holiday season. Also, after sniffing through press materials, we spotted holiday box stickers and they mention a free Netflix trial. You know, because Netflix is doing that whole 360 streaming thing.

JoystiqMS announces holiday bundles, free Netflix trial originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Oct 2008 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcadeeliteholiday-bundlesproxbox-360Thu, 09 Oct 2008 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Xbox 360 holiday bundles to include family friendly games [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/07/rumor-xbox-360-holiday-bundles-to-include-family-friendly-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/07/rumor-xbox-360-holiday-bundles-to-include-family-friendly-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/07/rumor-xbox-360-holiday-bundles-to-include-family-friendly-games/#commentsFiled under: ,


Update: Swedish retailer Webhallen.com has the rumored Arcade, Pro and Elite holiday bundles for sale and pictured on their site. It's more proof, but we still have no "official" word from Microsoft. Thanks Dirty Whirlwind.

Just as was done last year, Microsoft may be looking to release special Xbox 360 packages that are bundled with a few free games to entice holiday console purchasers. And according to our insider Gamestop tipster, this holiday Microsoft will be bundling family friendly games with all three major 360 consoles.

We've been informed that the Xbox 360 Arcade model will come packaged with SEGA Superstar Tennis and both the Pro and Elite models will come bundled with Kung Fu Panda and LEGO Indiana Jones. Sadly, we don't have any picture proof of the new bundles or a solid release date, but we'll keep digging to see whether or not the holiday game bundling is legit. For now, we advise being optimistically skeptical.

[Thanks, Travisto]

JoystiqRumor: Xbox 360 holiday bundles to include family friendly games [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 Oct 2008 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eliteholiday-bundleskung-fu-pandalego-indiana-jonesprosegasega-superstar-tennisxbox-360Tue, 07 Oct 2008 09:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Deals time: Xbox 360 Pro 60GB for $249, free ship]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/03/deals-time-xbox-360-pro-60gb-for-249-free-ship/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/03/deals-time-xbox-360-pro-60gb-for-249-free-ship/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/03/deals-time-xbox-360-pro-60gb-for-249-free-ship/#commentsFiled under:

Through October 6th, Dell.com is offering a $50 discount on both Pro and Elite Xbox 360 consoles AND they're including free shipping too. To partake in the purchasing process of buying $249 Pros or $349 Elites, simply click on over to Dell.com and, at the end of checkout, use the promo codes listed below.
[Via 360-Deals, Thanks Fargo]

JoystiqDeals time: Xbox 360 Pro 60GB for $249, free ship originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dealdealsdelleliteproxbox-360Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Deals: Free MS points with 360 purchase, $15 games and more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/07/deals-free-ms-points-with-360-purchase-15-games-and-more/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/07/deals-free-ms-points-with-360-purchase-15-games-and-more/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/07/deals-free-ms-points-with-360-purchase-15-games-and-more/#commentsFiled under:


It's time to page through the weekly retail adds to uncover a few special Xbox 360 deals. And just in case you forgot, all Xbox 360 consoles have seen a price cut where Arcades are $199, 60GB Pros are $299 and 120GB Elites are $399. If you're going to take advantage of the new price cut, we advise heading over to Circuit City where they'll toss in a free 1600 Microsoft point card with any console purchase. They're also selling GRAW2, Saints Row and Dead Rising for $15 and giving away a free tshirt and $10 gift card with the purchase of Force Unleashed. Sadly, neither Best Buy or Target have any 360 deals worth mentioning. Then again, who needs 'em anyway? Happy spending!

JoystiqDeals: Free MS points with 360 purchase, $15 games and more originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 07 Sep 2008 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcadecircuit-citydealseliteforce-unleashedproxbox-360Sun, 07 Sep 2008 09:45:00 EST<![CDATA[It's official! Microsoft announces North American Xbox 360 price cuts, $199 Arcade]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/03/its-official-microsoft-announces-north-american-xbox-360-price/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/03/its-official-microsoft-announces-north-american-xbox-360-price/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/03/its-official-microsoft-announces-north-american-xbox-360-price/#commentsFiled under:


After months and months of rumors, speculation, leaked adscans and insider whispers, Microsoft just announced that the Xbox 360 price cut rumors are, in fact, true. Beginning this Friday, September 5th the retail pricing for Xbox 360 consoles in the US will drop to all time lows. The new console pricing puts the Xbox 360 Arcade at $199 (cheaper than the Wii!), the 60GB Xbox 360 Pro at $299 and the Xbox 360 Elite at $399. Remember though, this is only for the US as any other territories (Europe, Australia, etc.) have yet to announce any console price cuts. We can now also pretty much debunk that motion controlled Arcade bundle rumor. Happy shopping!

JoystiqIt's official! Microsoft announces North American Xbox 360 price cuts, $199 Arcade originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Sep 2008 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcadeelitemicrosoftprice-cutprice-dropproxbox-360Wed, 03 Sep 2008 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Leaked MS email confirms 60GB SKU, more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/08/rumor-leaked-ms-email-confirms-60gb-sku-more/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/08/rumor-leaked-ms-email-confirms-60gb-sku-more/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/08/rumor-leaked-ms-email-confirms-60gb-sku-more/#commentsFiled under: ,


Well as E3 approaches, it looks Microsoft just can't keep a lid on their announcements. The lowered price on the 20GB unit has been rumored for a while now, and the idea has even been bandied about that its purpose was to clear the shelves to make room for a 60GB unit. While this of course is still waiting on some sort of official word (likely coming around or at MS's E3 press conference), a leaked email supposedly sent out to GameStop and Blockbuster company buyers seems to confirm both the new 60GB SKU as well as a "Live Starter Pack" for Arcade owners, which consists of a 60GB HDD, 3 Months of Live, a Headset, and an ethernet cable, all for $99.99.

Additionally, the email states the 20GB HDD is being phased out altogether and that the 120GB stand alone drive will receive a price cut to $149.99 (HA!). Word is that the 60GB Pro Unit will hit before the month is out and the Live Starter Pack will hit late October or early November. Whether or not the new 60GB SKU will be subject to the new price drop is unknown, but doubtful. Likely the 20GBs at $299.99 are a fire sale, and the 60GBs will still be $349.99.

The full text of the email can be found after the break.

Continue reading Rumor: Leaked MS email confirms 60GB SKU, more

JoystiqRumor: Leaked MS email confirms 60GB SKU, more originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 Jul 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>60gbarcadehardwaremicrosoftprice-cutprice-dropproskuTue, 08 Jul 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MS announces Australian Xbox 360 price cuts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/01/ms-announces-australian-xbox-360-price-cuts/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/01/ms-announces-australian-xbox-360-price-cuts/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/01/ms-announces-australian-xbox-360-price-cuts/#commentsFiled under:

Today, the Australian arm of Microsoft's Xbox 360 division announced pretty competitive Xbox 360 price cuts across the board. The price cuts affect not only the Pro console, but also the Arcade and Elite dropping the Xbox 360 Arcade to AU$349 (from AU$399), the Pro to AU$499 (from AU$579) and the Elite to AU$649 (from AU$729). This price cut move makes all versions of the Xbox 360 cheaper than the PS3 in the region and the Arcade console actually undercuts the Wii which is priced at AU$399. Nice!

These Australian price cuts obviously beg the question of whether or not we'll see a global Xbox 360 hardware price cut in time for E3. And even though Microsoft's Australian team refuses to acknowledge any other territory price cuts, we have even more faith in the leaked fliers. Global hardware price cuts incoming, keep your eyes peeled.

JoystiqMS announces Australian Xbox 360 price cuts originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Jul 2008 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcadeelitemicrosoftprice-cutprice-dropproxbox-360Tue, 01 Jul 2008 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: 60GB to replace 20GB HDD in 360 Pros]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/07/rumor-60gb-to-replace-20gb-hdd-in-360-pros/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/07/rumor-60gb-to-replace-20gb-hdd-in-360-pros/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/07/rumor-60gb-to-replace-20gb-hdd-in-360-pros/#commentsFiled under: ,

With rumors of European Xbox 360 price cuts flying around, we have yet another 360 hardware rumor making the internet rounds and it targets the 360's hard drive.

According to TrustedReviews and their "rock solid source", they're claiming that Microsoft has plans to replace the Xbox 360 Pros' current 20GB HDD with a larger 60GB drive by this June. A move that isn't all that far fetched seeing that they probably want to to help accommodate all that HD content they want you to purchase off the Marketplace. TrustedReviews ratchets up the rumor mill even further by saying that their insider told them that Microsoft is bouncing around the idea of adding yet another SKU to the 360 lineup. A new console that would reap the fruits of the rumored Sony / Microsoft negotiations and feature a Blu-ray drive. So, is anyone willing to take a stab at what the rumored 60GB HDD or Blu-ray equipped models would be called? We'll be trail-blazers and go with "Xbox 360 Six Pack" for the 60GB model and "Xbox 360 HD DVD Died So Blu-ray It Is" for the Blu-ray version.

[Via Engadget]

JoystiqRumor: 60GB to replace 20GB HDD in 360 Pros originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 07 Mar 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hard-drivemicrosoftprorumorxbox-360xbox-360-proFri, 07 Mar 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[It's official, Canada sees another Xbox 360 price cut]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/21/its-official-canada-sees-another-xbox-360-price-cut/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/21/its-official-canada-sees-another-xbox-360-price-cut/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/21/its-official-canada-sees-another-xbox-360-price-cut/#commentsFiled under:

Crazy, the FutureShop employee was actually telling us the truth as late last night, Microsoft announced that all of the Great White North (that's Canada) will see Xbox 360 price cuts effective immediately. The new console pricing will be dollar for dollar equal to the 360's price in the United States, with the Xbox 360 Pro dropping from $399 to $349, the Elite going from $499 to $449 and the Arcade sinking from $299 to $279. So, if you're Canadian and need another 360 or know someone who does, then jump in. There's no better time then now ... price cuts FTW!

JoystiqIt's official, Canada sees another Xbox 360 price cut originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 21 Feb 2008 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>canadaelitemicrosoftprice-cutpricecutproxbox-360Thu, 21 Feb 2008 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Toys R Us drops Canadian Xbox 360 price]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/toys-r-us-drops-canadian-xbox-360-price-early/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/toys-r-us-drops-canadian-xbox-360-price-early/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/toys-r-us-drops-canadian-xbox-360-price-early/#commentsFiled under: ,

What was just a rumor as recently as this morning has apparently already become reality -- the Canadian Toys R Us web site is showing $50 reductions in price for the Xbox 360 Pro (now $349.99) and Halo Edition - (now $399.99). An informant at a Canadian Toys R Us has also told us that the Xbox 360 Arcade has been reduced $20 (to $279.99) and the Elite has come down $50 (to $449.99 -- all prices are in Canadian dollars, eh?)

Ironically enough, FutureShop, where this morning's rumor first originated, has not lowered their web site prices as of press time. Perhaps they're waiting until Friday to unleash that Turok Elite bundle on an unsuspecting public?

Does this surprise move mean an American price drop is in the cards? Probably not -- much like the previous Microsoft Canada price drop, the adjustment seems designed to bring prices up North in line with the weakening American dollar.

Update: Apologies for the inadvertent act of bad foreign relations. No offense was meant, Canada. Are we still cool?

[Thanks Stephen]

JoystiqToys R Us drops Canadian Xbox 360 price originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Feb 2008 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ArcadeBreakingNewscanadaEliteHaloprice dropPriceDroppricingProretailToys R UsToysRUsXbox-360Wed, 20 Feb 2008 20:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Canadian Xbox 360 price drops $50 Friday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/rumor-canadian-xbox-360-price-drops-50-friday/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/rumor-canadian-xbox-360-price-drops-50-friday/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/rumor-canadian-xbox-360-price-drops-50-friday/#commentsFiled under: ,

Update 8:15 PM EST: Toys R Us Canada has apparently lowered their prices already.

Thanks to an anonymous tipster, we have early word on what might be an upcoming price drop for the Canadian Xbox 360. The above phonecam photo comes from a FutureShop Canada employee, who says he was "quite surprised" to find a $50 price drop for the Xbox 360 Pro Console advertised right on the front page of next week's advertising fliers. Our source also tells us that the inside of the flier trumpets a $50 price drop for the XBox 360 Elite (to $449), an offer which allegedly includes a free copy of Turok.

Both price drops should be effective Friday, if this rumor proves true, and while we have no way of confirming this information as of yet, we have no explicit reason to doubt it either. Regardless, if you're a Canadian looking to buy an Xbox 360, it couldn't hurt to wait a couple of days to see if you can save a bit of green, er, funny multicolored money.

JoystiqRumor: Canadian Xbox 360 price drops $50 Friday originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Feb 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>$50canadaEliteFutureShopprice dropprice-cutprice-dropPriceDropProXbox 360Xbox-360Xbox360Wed, 20 Feb 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Get learnified: Xbox 360 and its various SKUs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/23/get-learnified-xbox-360-and-its-various-skus/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/23/get-learnified-xbox-360-and-its-various-skus/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/23/get-learnified-xbox-360-and-its-various-skus/#commentsFiled under:

If you're new to the Xbox 360 world, have been lurking here at X3F without actually owning a console and have finally summoned up the courage to "jump in" and purchase a new Xbox 360 then we say ... congrats! The Xbox 360 is one sexy gaming machine and you won't regret your decision to own one.

But you've also come to realize that purchasing an Xbox 360 isn't as simple as picking up a box and calling it a day. There are numerous versions of the 360 (Core, Arcade, Pro, H3, Elite, etc.) and keeping up to date on what's included in each box can make your brain turn to mush. And that's where our friends over at Joystiq come in with their guide to explaining the Xbox 360 SKUs. In their article they lay out all the details, break down each model, give you the prices and tell you what's in the box all on one handy little chart. Their article will not only help you decide on which Xbox 360 console is right for you, but it will also make you informed enough to be able to correct those somewhat delusional sales people who get their 360 facts messed up sometimes.

JoystiqGet learnified: Xbox 360 and its various SKUs originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 Nov 2007 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcadecoreeliteproxbox-360xbox360Fri, 23 Nov 2007 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq Holidaze: explaining the Xbox 360 SKUs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/22/joystiq-holidaze-explaining-the-xbox-360-skus/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/22/joystiq-holidaze-explaining-the-xbox-360-skus/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/22/joystiq-holidaze-explaining-the-xbox-360-skus/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We'd love to say picking up Xbox 360 is as easy as going to the store and grabbing the first box with the console's name on it. For better and worse, this generation of consoles gives consumers many choices at the (potential) expense of causing confusion at the store.

So it's with this in mind that we present you this handy guide for discerning the difference between the various Xbox 360 versions (aka SKUs) out there. Please note that the red and green coloring is not only festive decor for the holiday season but also a subjective highlight of what each version excels in (or subsequently lacks).

Elite Halo
Edition		 Pro Arcade Core
Hardware
Price $449.99 $399.99 $349.99 $279.99 $199.99*
Storage 120GB HDD 20GB HDD 20GB HDD 256MB
memory card		 none
Color Black Green/Orange White White White
HDMI port Yes Yes Certain models** Yes Certain models**
Bundled Accessories
Ethernet cable Yes Yes Yes No No
Headset Wired Wired Wired No No
Play &
Charge Kit		 No Yes No No No
Video cables HDMI 1.2,
Component,
Composite		 Component,
Composite		 Component,
Composite		 Composite Composite
Controller Wireless Wireless Wireless Wireless Wired
Other
Xbox Live Silver,
1 Month Gold		 Silver,
1 Month Gold		 Silver,
1 Month Gold		 Silver,
1 Month Gold		 Silver
Backwards
Compatibility		 Yes Yes Yes No*** No***

Notes:

* The Core model has been discontinued. The $199.99 price tag is based on the GameStop refurbished price.
** See explanation below
*** Hard Drive required

And just in case you still have questions, we've gone ahead and written up a F.A.Q. after the break.

Continue reading Joystiq Holidaze: explaining the Xbox 360 SKUs

JoystiqJoystiq Holidaze: explaining the Xbox 360 SKUs originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 22 Nov 2007 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcadechristmascoreelitehalohalo-3holidashholidazemicrosoftpremiumproshoppingskuxbox-360xbox360xmasThu, 22 Nov 2007 08:01:00 EST<![CDATA[New Xbox 360 bundles arriving end October]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/08/new-xbox-360-bundles-arriving-end-october/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/08/new-xbox-360-bundles-arriving-end-october/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/08/new-xbox-360-bundles-arriving-end-october/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

go big?
If you've yet to get yourself an Xbox 360 in this post-Halo 3 world, Microsoft is of a mind to sway you with fast cars and terrifyingly tight pants this holiday season. New Xbox 360 bundles (yep, these ones) are set to arrive "retail-wide by the end of October," with both the $349.99 "Pro" and the $449.99 Elite models offering two games at no extra charge -- racing sim Forza Motorsport 2 and supervillain clobberfest, Marvel Ultimate Alliance.

Though Project Gotham Racing 4's arcade styling would have held more general appeal than Forza's serious nitty-gritty, the latter's unquestionably a fine game for a freebie. The same holds true for Marvel Ultimate Alliance, a fun and accessible adventure both online and off. We rather like this bundling business.

JoystiqNew Xbox 360 bundles arriving end October originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Oct 2007 10:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BundlesEliteHolidayProXbox-360Mon, 08 Oct 2007 10:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: New Xbox 360 Arcade console and re-branding]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/20/rumor-new-xbox-360-arcade-console-and-re-branding/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/20/rumor-new-xbox-360-arcade-console-and-re-branding/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/20/rumor-new-xbox-360-arcade-console-and-re-branding/#commentsFiled under: ,

Juicy news is making its rounds on the internet this morning with a Belgian Microsoft source revealing details about a new Xbox 360 console, potential re-branding and the extinction of the Core as we know it. Gamernode received the presentation slide you see above (larger version here) from their secret Microsoft source who said that a new Xbox 360 Arcade console will be priced at 279 GBP, replace the Xbox 360 Core and include the addition of a wireless controller, 256MB memory card, five XBLA games and possible HDMI connectivity. Also revealed was the re-branding of all three consoles offerings with the Elite getting a "Go Big" slogan, the Premium losing its name and becoming "Go Pro" and the Core being renamed to Arcade with a "Just Play!" slogan.

It's also interesting to note that Gamernode was told that the new Xbox 360 Arcade console will be a world wide offering and, presumably, so will all the re-branding efforts. And it's not like we didn't see the death of the Core coming. Best Buy and Target have reportedly pulled the Core from their shelves and overall no more Core sentiment has been building among retailers and consumers alike. The addition of a memory card, games and wireless controller make the Arcade console a much more complete offering than the Core ever was. Again, we haven't received any official word from Microsoft about this rumor, console changes, prices, availability or future console plans. So, patience will need to be practiced.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqRumor: New Xbox 360 Arcade console and re-branding originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Aug 2007 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcadeelitenomorecoreproxbox360Mon, 20 Aug 2007 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[360 holiday bundles to include MUA and Forza 2?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/13/360-holiday-bundles-to-include-mua-and-forza-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/13/360-holiday-bundles-to-include-mua-and-forza-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/13/360-holiday-bundles-to-include-mua-and-forza-2/#commentsFiled under: ,

Holiday console bundles are nearly a guarantee every year and by the looks of the images above, we think we know what Microsoft's plans are for Christmas '07. French website gamick.fr was browsing a Microsoft marketing website when they stumbled across the two console packaging images above (which have since been pulled) labeled as "Holiday Value Bundles" which state that both Marvel Ultimate Alliance and Forza Motorsport 2 are included in the box. Oh joy!

So, it looks like some territory will be receiving two free games with the purchase of an Elite or Premium (now Pro?) Xbox 360 this holiday, but the big question is who? Remember, a French website found these images, so which territory will be receiving this exact bundle is still a mystery. And is it just us or you loving the whole "Go Big" and "Go Pro" marketing thing too?

[Via Joystiq]

Joystiq360 holiday bundles to include MUA and Forza 2? originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 Aug 2007 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eliteholidaybundlepremiumproxbox360Mon, 13 Aug 2007 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Why art thou n00b? [update 1]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/16/why-art-thou-n00b/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/16/why-art-thou-n00b/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/16/why-art-thou-n00b/#commentsFiled under:

It's delicious One cannot live in the gaming world without encountering the ever-present dichotomy of "pro vs. n00b." Gamers claim superiority over others for their skill and ability, thus forming ridiculous "caste" systems in established communities across the globe. But what is skill, in gaming? What makes a gamer "good," able to achieve high-scores, able to frag their opponents with ease? Many gamers will simply state "reflexes" or more colloquially, "mad skillz yo LOL," but we'd like to take this opportunity and explore what truly makes a player exceptional ... and what the DS is doing to change that.

Continue reading Why art thou n00b? [update 1]

JoystiqWhy art thou n00b? [update 1] originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 16 Apr 2007 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Abilitygamershardcoren00bsproSkillMon, 16 Apr 2007 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ubisale at Toys R Us]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/05/ubisale-at-toys-r-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/05/ubisale-at-toys-r-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/05/ubisale-at-toys-r-us/#commentsFiled under: ,

There have been a lot of sales to report lately! If you picked up a Wii at Toys R Us yesterday, you now have an opportunity to get some relatively good games for a decent price, from now until the 10th.

Toys R Us is offering three Ubisoft-published Wii games for the price of two. Your choices are GT Pro Series, Open Season, Rayman: Raving Rabbids, Red Steel, and Monster 4x4: World Circuit. This offer is valid online, but we aren't sure about its status in TRU stores. If there are three games in that list you're interested in, or two games you're interested in and one you think you could get a decent price for on eBay, then you are in luck!

[Via QJ.net]

JoystiqUbisale at Toys R Us originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Mar 2007 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4x4dealgtmonsternintendonintendo wiinintendowiiopenopenseasonprorabbidsraymanredred steelredsteelsalesalesseasonsteeltoys r ustoysrustruubiubisoftwiiMon, 05 Mar 2007 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Off the charts in Wii Sports [update 1]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/05/off-the-charts-in-wii-sports/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/05/off-the-charts-in-wii-sports/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/05/off-the-charts-in-wii-sports/#commentsFiled under:

Last week, we bragged chatted about our Wii Sports accomplishments, and suddenly our e-mail blew up with stories of folks screaming off the charts in their favorite sports. Here we were, feeling good about being mid-range pro in tennis, and there are folks with rankings that make us feel like we might just be the noobiest noobs who've never noobed.

We'll be comforting ourselves with chocolate while you check out the pics.

[Update 1: Fixing an error both heinous and gratuitous.]

Continue reading Off the charts in Wii Sports [update 1]

JoystiqOff the charts in Wii Sports [update 1] originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Feb 2007 16:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boxingNintendooff the chartOffTheChartproscoretennisWiiWii SportsWiiSportsMon, 05 Feb 2007 16:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Warm Up: Wii Sports accomplishments]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/02/wii-warm-up-wii-sports-accomplishments/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/02/wii-warm-up-wii-sports-accomplishments/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/02/wii-warm-up-wii-sports-accomplishments/#commentsFiled under: ,

We know you guys still like to get in there with the racket or the boxing gloves -- you told us -- so we're dying to know about all the bragging rights you can claim in Wii Sports. Are you struggling to just get bronze medals, or are you maybe rolling in the platinum? Have you gone pro? What's the state of your Wii Sports habit?

JoystiqWii Warm Up: Wii Sports accomplishments originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Feb 2007 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>medalsNintendoprotrainingWiiWii SportsWiiSportswwuFri, 02 Feb 2007 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Major League Gaming drops $1.75 million to sign more pros]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/18/major-league-gaming-drops-1-75-million-to-sign-more-pros/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/18/major-league-gaming-drops-1-75-million-to-sign-more-pros/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/18/major-league-gaming-drops-1-75-million-to-sign-more-pros/#commentsFiled under: ,

a league of their ownMajor League Gaming has secured team Carbon, the four-man national Halo 2 champion, with a $1 million group contract, and signed additional $250,000 deals with three members of team Str8 Rippin. Having signed similar contracts with team Final Boss and Str8 Rippin captain Tom Taylor back in June, MLG now has exclusive rights to three of the nation's top l33t pro-gaming teams.

You can currently watch these fine young lads do battle on USA Network's coverage of the 2006 Boost Mobile MLG Pro Circuit on Saturday mornings.

[Thanks, Raymond]

JoystiqMajor League Gaming drops $1.75 million to sign more pros originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Dec 2006 14:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CarbonContractHalo 2Halo2Major League GamingMajorLeagueGamingMLGProProfessionalStr8 RippinStr8RippinMon, 18 Dec 2006 14:55:00 EST<![CDATA[New Virtual Console games on the horizon [update 1]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/08/new-virtual-console-games-on-the-horizon/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/08/new-virtual-console-games-on-the-horizon/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/08/new-virtual-console-games-on-the-horizon/#commentsFiled under:

No more Mike.Yes, the U.S. Virtual Console launch line-up is a bit ... anemic. We know, it hurts. However, one has to consider why it doesn't really matter: 1) We'll all be too busy playing Twilight Princess to bother with the Virtual Console immediately, and 2) Nintendo has promised ten new Virtual Console releases per month. That's quite a bit, especially looking at how often Xbox Live Arcade is updated, but the question then becomes: what's on the horizon?

Well, thanks to the ESRB, we've got a clue. The ESRB requires that games be rated before release, which obviously means that companies need to send in their product quite a bit in advance. Since they publish their ratings, we've managed to score a list of eight potentials, and quite an eight they are (all rated E for Everyone):
  • Duck Hunt
  • Hogan's Alley
  • Kid Icarus
  • Kirby's Adventure
  • PilotWings
  • Pro Wrestling
  • Punch-Out
  • Wild Gunman
Kid Icarus, Duck Hunt, and Punch-Out? Holy hell. The Virtual Console is awesome.

[via Joystiq]

[Thanks, Zeke!]

[Update 1: Legal issues?]

JoystiqNew Virtual Console games on the horizon [update 1] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Nov 2006 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AdventureDecemberDuckGunmanHogan's AlleyHogan'sAlleyHuntKid IcarusKidIcarusKirbyMonthPilotWingsProPunch-OutVirtual ConsoleVirtualConsoleWildWrestlingWed, 08 Nov 2006 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Pro gamer salaries on the rise]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/20/pro-gamer-salaries-on-the-rise/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/20/pro-gamer-salaries-on-the-rise/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/20/pro-gamer-salaries-on-the-rise/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Want to make big bucks as a professional gamer? Living overseas is probably your best bet for now. But Wired News reports that television deals and increased interest from U.S. sponsors mean salaries for America's top gamers could hit the stratosphere before long. This is in stark contrast to a similar Wired article from three years ago which detailed how even the best of the best pro gamers were barely getting by.

Today, more than a dozen U.S. gamers make upwards of $70K per year, according to the article, and a few have taken home six-figure purses in big tournaments. That's nothing compared to the costs for sponsors such as NVidia, though, who shell out money "likely in the eight-figure range" to sponsor the likes of Team3[D].

Nice work if you can get it, but remember that the top pros often practice for upwards of 40 hours a week to keep their skills honed. So unless you're planning on quiting your day job, you aren't likely to be the next Jonathan Wendel anytime soon.

JoystiqPro gamer salaries on the rise originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Sep 2006 14:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>counterstrikeGameCubehalohalo 2Halo2PCpropro gamerprofessionalProGamerPS2XboxXbox-360Wed, 20 Sep 2006 14:25:00 EST<![CDATA[1GB Pro Duo on the cheap]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/30/1gb-pro-duo-on-the-cheap/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/30/1gb-pro-duo-on-the-cheap/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/30/1gb-pro-duo-on-the-cheap/#commentsFiled under: ,

If you swing on over to online retailer Buy.com, you can acquire a 1GB Pro Duo for your PSP for the very reasonable sum of $24.95 U.S. after a mail-in rebate.  Offer is only valid until the 4th of June, so if you've been holding off on shelling out some dough for a larger memory stick, now seems about as good a time as any to upgrade.

Joystiq1GB Pro Duo on the cheap originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 30 May 2006 09:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>duomemoryplaystationportablepropspsandisksonystickTue, 30 May 2006 09:10:00 EST