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[Japan prohibits import of R4 cartridges]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/24/japan-prohibits-import-of-r4-cartridges/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/24/japan-prohibits-import-of-r4-cartridges/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/24/japan-prohibits-import-of-r4-cartridges/#comments Nintendo's ongoing struggle against the now-infamous R4 cartridge continues, as another blow against the potentially devious device has been dealt in Japanese government. While the R4 has been illegal to sell in Japan since 2009, importing the thing was still technically legal. Now, however, that too has been prohibited by the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

For those of you new to this perpetually unfolding saga of prohibition, let's recap: The R4 is a flash cartridge for the Nintendo DS, which allows users to play homebrew and/or pirated games on their handhelds. You can probably guess which usage was more common.

So far, distributing the R4 (and similar devices) has been banned in Japan, France and the UK. Additionally, Amazon and eBay have discontinued sales of the cart at the behest of Nintendo. Australian-based distributors of the cartridges have been successfully sued by Nintendo, and a man in the UK went to prison for a year for importing over 26,000 carts.

So, if you have to run an illegal import/export business, take our advice and shift away from the R4 and refocus on something less dangerous to work with, like cursed Egyptian artifacts, or mint-in-box time-traveler's bones.

JoystiqJapan prohibits import of R4 cartridges originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 24 Nov 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandsgovernmentillegalimportjapanJapanese-Ministry-of-Economy-Trade-and-IndustrynintendoprohibitionR4R4DSSat, 24 Nov 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[French court bans DS 'game copier' devices]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/04/french-court-bans-ds-game-copier-devices/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/04/french-court-bans-ds-game-copier-devices/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/04/french-court-bans-ds-game-copier-devices/#comments Baby Pirates Forever Nearly two years after French courts ruled in favor of Nintendo DS flash cartridge sellers, it appears that prosecutors have won their appeal. The Paris Court of Appeals has ruled against Divineo and five other companies responsible for selling devices similar to the R4, which allow users to run unofficial code (pirated games included) on the Nintendo DS.

In its statement (PDF), Nintendo revealed that the companies have been charged over €460,000 in criminal fines, as well as over €4.8 million in damages to Nintendo. The company didn't offer specifics, though the ruling included some suspended prison sentences as well. Nintendo unsurprisingly cheered the news, noting that the decision "represents a strong message to French companies dealing in these devices, that such activities are illegal and will not be tolerated." The company also took a moment to thank law enforcement agencies that took part in raids to confiscate the devices in question (something Nintendo has gotten quite adept at over the years).

The victory comes as part of Nintendo's ever vigilant campaign against piracy, which has seen lawsuits everywhere from Australia to New York, with some cases leading to similar nationwide bans. Nintendo has also stopped eBay and Amazon from selling flash carts, and has even enlisted the aid of its own customers.

And, most important of all, the company has inspired Joystiq's Baby Pirates comic series, which is now teetering on the brink of irrelevancy. Thanks, Nintendo.

JoystiqFrench court bans DS 'game copier' devices originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 Oct 2011 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anti-piracybabypiratesdsfrancenintendor4Tue, 04 Oct 2011 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[R4 and other Nintendo DS flashcarts outlawed in UK]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/28/r4-and-other-nintendo-ds-flashcarts-outlawed-in-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/28/r4-and-other-nintendo-ds-flashcarts-outlawed-in-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/28/r4-and-other-nintendo-ds-flashcarts-outlawed-in-uk/#commentsFiled under: , ,

R4 cartridges and other flashcarts, used in some cases (if not most) to pirate Nintendo DS games, are no longer allowed to be sold, advertised or imported into the UK. According to GI.biz, London's High Court ruled that the devices are illegal -- much to the chagrin of those who use it for actual homebrew purposes -- because it requires bypassing Nintendo's security to use.

Nintendo and friends have been working hard to wipe out the R4 devices around the world. Nintendo claims that over 100,000 R4 devices have been seized in the UK since 2009.

JoystiqR4 and other Nintendo DS flashcarts outlawed in UK originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Jul 2010 09:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dslawlawsuitnintendor4ukWed, 28 Jul 2010 09:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo files lawsuit against NY seller of 'illegal video game copiers']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/13/nintendo-files-lawsuit-against-ny-seller-of-illegal-video-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/13/nintendo-files-lawsuit-against-ny-seller-of-illegal-video-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/13/nintendo-files-lawsuit-against-ny-seller-of-illegal-video-game/#comments Nintendo has fired yet another volley in its war on video game piracy, this time against a Queens, New York-based seller of "illegal video game copiers." Nintendo has filed suit against the owner of NXPGAME, which presided over a website that sold "illegal video game copiers that enable the user to download, play and distribute illegal copies of Nintendo DS and Nintendo DSi video game software." Nintendo alleges that the owner agreed to shut down the website after several calls and letters from Nintendo legal counsel, but proceeded to open another website selling the same products. Nintendo adds that the old site also redirected users to the new one.

Nintendo doesn't specify exactly what the "Illegal game copiers" in question are, though it does mention a 2009 court case in which the California Central District Court judged the infamous R4 flash cart to be in violation of the Digital Millennium Copyright Act and deemed them illegal in the United States. According to Nintendo, such devices "circumvent the technological protection measures" of the DS and DSi and thus infringe on the company's intellectual property rights.

Jodi Daugherty, senior director of Nintendo's anti-piracy effort, noted that using such devices "is illegal and it's wrong," adding, "Piracy is especially harmful to smaller developers." Alex Neuse, CEO of Gaijin Games (Bit.Trip Runner) states in the press release that he estimates that "more than 70 percent" of his company's games have been obtained illegally. "Put simply," said Neuse, "if you enjoy a company's games, paying for them helps to ensure that they will continue to make products you'll like."

The news follows a recent win for Nintendo in a similar Australian court case this past February. That case saw offenders pay in excess of $500,000. In the same month, Nintendo won another case against a man that leaked New Super Mario Bros. Wii onto the internet, ending in a fine of $1.5 million. Once again, would-be pirates, Nintendo is serious about this.

JoystiqNintendo files lawsuit against NY seller of 'illegal video game copiers' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 May 2010 17:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>babypiratesDSflashcartlawsuitlegalnintendonxpgamepiracyr4Thu, 13 May 2010 17:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo wins R4 piracy suit in Australia: Pay up, pirates!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/18/nintendo-wins-r4-piracy-suit-in-australia-pay-up-pirates/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/18/nintendo-wins-r4-piracy-suit-in-australia-pay-up-pirates/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/18/nintendo-wins-r4-piracy-suit-in-australia-pay-up-pirates/#comments Nintendo's march against the R4 mod cartridge for the DS rolls on this week, as the company has won a lawsuit against an Australian distributor of the now-illegal device, according to iTNews. RSJ IT Solutions, which sold the R4 through gadgetgear.com.au, was ordered to stop selling the device and fined $520,000 ($466,752 USD) in damages payable to Nintendo. Two other respondents named by Nintendo in the suit, Patrick Li and James Li, were also ordered to stop selling the R4 in Australia and fined $100,000 ($89,760 USD). Furthermore, the two are required to disclose the names of their R4 suppliers.

This marks Nintendo's second major blow to piracy in Australia this month. Last week, Nintendo was successfully awarded $1.5 million ($1.3 million USD) in damages to be paid by a remorseful Australian man, who was found to be the first to upload New Super Mario Bros. Wii to the internet. Lest any potential pirates out there haven't figured it out yet -- especially those in Australia -- Nintendo isn't messing around.

JoystiqNintendo wins R4 piracy suit in Australia: Pay up, pirates! originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 18 Feb 2010 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiababypiratesDSnintendopiracyr4Thu, 18 Feb 2010 18:01:00 EST<![CDATA[UK R4 importer sentenced to 12 months in prison]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/19/uk-r4-importer-sentenced-to-12-months-in-prison/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/19/uk-r4-importer-sentenced-to-12-months-in-prison/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/19/uk-r4-importer-sentenced-to-12-months-in-prison/#comments Not only are publishers trying to prevent the sale and distribution of R4 game copying devices for the Nintendo DS, but illegal importers are going to jail. GamePolitics reports that UK resident Yun Can Meng was sentenced to a year in prison after he plead guilty to importing over 26,500 R4 cards for distribution.

ELSPA's Director General Michael Ralinson said the organization was "pleased" with the outcome and the court's robust enforcement. If you're a UK resident in the R4 business, consider this a big flashing warning sign to find another business with lower risk -- like insurance fraud.

JoystiqUK R4 importer sentenced to 12 months in prison originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Jan 2010 00:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>britainDSNintendopiracyr4theftukTue, 19 Jan 2010 00:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo, Capcom, friends file suit over DS piracy-enabling R4 sales]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/15/nintendo-capcom-friends-file-suit-over-ds-piracy-enabling-r4-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/15/nintendo-capcom-friends-file-suit-over-ds-piracy-enabling-r4-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/15/nintendo-capcom-friends-file-suit-over-ds-piracy-enabling-r4-s/#comments Faced with The Truth that - regardless of what sorts of anti-piracy technology it folds into its DS platform - pirates will invariably hack the dual-screened handheld, Nintendo has buddied up with Capcom and 53 other video game publishers in Japan to file suit against four resellers of the popular R4 flash cartridge.

Earlier this year, a Tokyo court banned the sale of the devices; however, Capcom now says that "legal action has had no meaningful effect in the intervening period" and that sellers would "ignore" its warnings. Enter: a new lawsuit, which Capcom hopes leads to a ruling that acknowledges "our company and other software manufactures have sustained [extreme] damages from proliferation of illegal instruments." Seems pretty cut and dry to us, but we'll let the courts decide.

JoystiqNintendo, Capcom, friends file suit over DS piracy-enabling R4 sales originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Oct 2009 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CapcomDSlawsuitNintendopiracyR4Thu, 15 Oct 2009 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo tackling pirates again (with the aid of consumer snitches)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/05/nintendo-tackling-pirates-again-with-the-aid-of-consumer-snitch/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/05/nintendo-tackling-pirates-again-with-the-aid-of-consumer-snitch/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/05/nintendo-tackling-pirates-again-with-the-aid-of-consumer-snitch/#comments Police officers often employ the aid of criminal informants, a kind of double agent that works behind enemy lines to get all of the dirt on the lowlifes breaking the rules. That's the new strategy for Nintendo and the 54 other companies that have again jointly filed suit in a Tokyo District Court to thwart the sale of devices used by pirates, such as the R4.

Despite winning the initial filing, Japanese retailers still sell the R4 and other flash carts, so Nintendo and (presumably) the same 54 companies have again filed suit. This latest filing aims for damages from those reselling the devices. See, Nintendo and the participating companies sent a letter to these resellers back in February requesting that they cease selling the device, but these resellers failed to comply.

Back to the snitching: Nintendo has opened a consumer website to report offenders and retailers hocking the devices. There, folks can fill out a web form with the appropriate information and submit it direct to Nintendo for follow-up. In exchange from Big N, you ask? You don't really expect freebies for doing the right thing, do you? Also, there's nothing.

[Via Andriasang]

JoystiqNintendo tackling pirates again (with the aid of consumer snitches) originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Oct 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>babypiratesDSmajiconNintendopiracyr4r4-dsMon, 05 Oct 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Looks like DSi firmware 1.4 is defeated already]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/06/looks-like-dsi-firmware-1-4-is-defeated-already/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/06/looks-like-dsi-firmware-1-4-is-defeated-already/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/06/looks-like-dsi-firmware-1-4-is-defeated-already/#commentsThe site for the R4i DSi flash cart posted a video (see it after the break) demonstrating what appears to be the R4i running on a DSi system with the 1.4 firmware. You know, the firmware that was released not even a week ago, and removed flash cart compatibility? Yeah, that one. The video demonstrates a retail game ROM, which is not particularly awesome, but does serve as evidence of flash cart compatibility. The site currently doesn't mention whether this is accomplished through an R4i firmware update or through new hardware. We'll find out more as more flash carts pick up on whatever technique is in use.

If 1.4 has truly been defeated, homebrew users will be able to upload photos to Facebook and play Magnetic Shaving Derby! Magical.

[YouTube video via GBATemp]

Continue reading Looks like DSi firmware 1.4 is defeated already

JoystiqLooks like DSi firmware 1.4 is defeated already originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Aug 2009 18:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsifirmwarehomebrewpiracyr4r4iThu, 06 Aug 2009 18:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo convinces eBay and Amazon to ban DS flashcarts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/22/nintendo-convinces-ebay-and-amazon-to-ban-ds-flashcarts/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/22/nintendo-convinces-ebay-and-amazon-to-ban-ds-flashcarts/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/22/nintendo-convinces-ebay-and-amazon-to-ban-ds-flashcarts/#commentsNintendo has announced that it has reached an agreement with Amazon and eBay through which the shopping sites will prohibit the sale of the R4 and other DS flashcarts.

"Nintendo is pleased with the co-operation it has received from both eBay and Amazon to prevent the sales of game copying devices," Nintendo's global head of anti-piracy, Jodie Daughtery told MCV. eBay has actually pulled auctions for copying devices for years (presumably as an "item encouraging illegal activity), so if there is a policy update, it involves even more vigilant policing of auctions.

Amazon UK games director Chris Poad told MCV that Amazon has a "notice and take down" process for its third-party Marketplace. "So where a third party believes that their IP has been infringed, they can highlight it and we can take it down. This is what happened in the case of the R4."

Now Nintendo just has the rest of the Internet to deal with in its efforts to curtail DS piracy (and, as an extremely unfortunate side effect, homebrew).

JoystiqNintendo convinces eBay and Amazon to ban DS flashcarts originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 May 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonDSebayflashcarthomebrewNintendopiracyr4Fri, 22 May 2009 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[DS flash carts a form of 'information terrorism,' says Japanese trade group]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/20/ds-flash-carts-a-form-of-information-terrorism-says-japanese/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/20/ds-flash-carts-a-form-of-information-terrorism-says-japanese/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/20/ds-flash-carts-a-form-of-information-terrorism-says-japanese/#commentsJapan's Association of Copyright for Computer Software president Yutaka Kubota expressed to Famitsu grave concerns about the proliferation and use of Nintendo DS flash cart devices, such as the R4DS.

Referring to the volume of illegally downloaded DS software, Kubota remarked, "It's not a matter of numbers anymore," adding, "The fact is that you can download any Nintendo DS game as much as you want, so there's no way to even calculate the damage. This is an issue that affects our national interests, and personally, I see it as a form of information terrorism that is crushing Japan's industry."

In the interview translated by 1UP, Kubota called on the magazine's readers to stand firm against piracy, saying, "I want them to be aware that unless we do something, nobody will be able to make the games they love to play. Not only will gamers wanting to play new games not be able to play anything, but people who want to join the game industry in the future will have their dreams trampled upon."

Japan's laws do not currently forbid the purchase of devices like the R4, nor the downloading of commercial software for use with them. A new copyright bill under review would make it illegal to download copyrighted media, but doesn't expressly give authorities the right to arrest offenders.

JoystiqDS flash carts a form of 'information terrorism,' says Japanese trade group originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 May 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>association-of-copyright-for-computer-softwarecopyrightDSflash-cartjapanlawNintendopiracyr4Wed, 20 May 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Metaforic unveils new anti-copying measures for DS games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/13/metaforic-unveils-new-anti-copying-measures-for-ds-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/13/metaforic-unveils-new-anti-copying-measures-for-ds-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/13/metaforic-unveils-new-anti-copying-measures-for-ds-games/#commentsMetaforic's Andrew Mclennan, a former game developer frustrated by piracy, spoke to Gamasutra about a new technology his company has created to reduce copying of DS games. Nintendo's tactic so far has been to try to stop the sale of the R4 flashcart in Japan and other countries, but the company is now working with Metaforic to attack the problem from a different angle.

Metaforic's MetaFortress technology, to be used in games by Nintendo and six other publishers starting this year, uses code stored in the actual game that detects the patching used by flashcarts, and then disables the ROM. "We take any DS game and inject a security scheme into the game itself," Mclennan told Gamasutra. "It turns each game into its own security system. Every time we apply it to a different game, it's a different security system."

Though he admits that the software could be hackable eventually, it would require a separate effort for each individual game ROM. "We add so much security to it that it will take a very long time to hack." Mclennan claims that even flashcart firmware patches will be unable to neutralize MetaFortress, though he didn't specify why.

Though Mclennan thinks flashcarts should be illegal, he "sympathizes" with the homebrew community. It wasn't his goal, but disabling flashcart-based piracy at the software level obviates the need for anti-flashcart legislation, which could be good news for homebrew fans.

JoystiqMetaforic unveils new anti-copying measures for DS games originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 May 2009 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>copyingDSmetaforicNintendopiracyr4Wed, 13 May 2009 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Japan court bans sale of DS homebrew-enabling R4 flash carts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/27/japan-court-bans-sale-of-ds-homebrew-enabling-r4-flash-carts/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/27/japan-court-bans-sale-of-ds-homebrew-enabling-r4-flash-carts/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/27/japan-court-bans-sale-of-ds-homebrew-enabling-r4-flash-carts/#comments The Tokyo District Court placed an injunction on the Chinese cart manufacturers who make the R4 today, making it illegal to sell the cartridge in Japan. It has already disappeared from shops and Nintendo, Capcom, and Square Enix have all come forward with their support. These companies haven't ceased their efforts yet, however, as they've vowed to continue pursuing those responsible for similar devices.

R4 carts, along with other flash carts, allow users to run homebrew (and pirated) material on their DS or DS Lite (no dice on the upcoming DSi, folks). If this is all still over your head, then check out our guide to homebrew on the DS right here.

[Via Eurogamer]

JoystiqJapan court bans sale of DS homebrew-enabling R4 flash carts originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Feb 2009 10:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSflash-carthomebrewjapanNintendor4r4-cartFri, 27 Feb 2009 10:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo DSi blocks R4 carts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/06/nintendo-dsi-blocks-r4-carts/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/06/nintendo-dsi-blocks-r4-carts/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/06/nintendo-dsi-blocks-r4-carts/#commentsFiled under:


OK, so maybe 90 percent of DS owners aren't using R4 carts to play pirated games on their DS systems, but it's still a problem for Nintendo, especially if it wants to have enough money to have both Shigeru Miyamoto and Howard Lincoln cloned.

But it seems as though the R4's days may be numbered, as it appears from the video below the jump that neither the carts nor Slot-1 cheat devices work in the brand new Nintendo DSi. Sorry, pirates. At least you still have the sea.

Continue reading Nintendo DSi blocks R4 carts

JoystiqNintendo DSi blocks R4 carts originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Nov 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSdsinintendo-dsnintendo-dsipiracyr4Thu, 06 Nov 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Daily: Peripheral guilt]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/08/ds-daily-peripheral-guilt/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/08/ds-daily-peripheral-guilt/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/08/ds-daily-peripheral-guilt/#commentsFiled under:

Since the R4 and similar homebrew devices are best known for swashbuckling-related uses, many gamers seem to transfer their disdain for the practice onto the devices themselves. But we know they can be used for awesome, non-yarr-related things!

Do you steer clear of homebrew because of its association with piracy? Or are you an avid homebrewer forced to defend your love of free games and weirdo apps from people who assume you're a buccaneer? If a pirate ye be, we're not asking you.

JoystiqDS Daily: Peripheral guilt originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Sep 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>piracyr4Mon, 08 Sep 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Japanese retailers jack up the price of R4]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/01/japanese-retailers-jack-up-the-price-of-r4/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/01/japanese-retailers-jack-up-the-price-of-r4/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/01/japanese-retailers-jack-up-the-price-of-r4/#commentsFiled under: ,

We can't say we're surprised that they're asking for more money for the R4, in light of all of the recent developments. Business owners like money, so we can understand them taking advantage of what's going on. In Japan, these business owners have more than doubled the price of the flash cart over the span of only days.

So, all we're saying is that if you don't have one and want one, you probably should see about getting one before they get more expensive. Why would you want one? Uh, have you not read our homebrew guide?

[Via Go Nintendo]

JoystiqJapanese retailers jack up the price of R4 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Aug 2008 15:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cartridgeflashflash-cartjapanpiracyr4r4dsFri, 01 Aug 2008 15:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Potential flash cart ban helps R4 sales]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/30/potential-flash-cart-ban-helps-r4-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/30/potential-flash-cart-ban-helps-r4-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/30/potential-flash-cart-ban-helps-r4-sales/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Chalk this one up to "we saw this coming," but the troubled waters that flash carts have found themselves in has led to an increase in R4 sales.

Nintendo and fifty-three other companies are filing a suit against retailers selling flash carts, demanding that they stop the sales and imports of said cards. According to Kotaku, Japanese retailers in Akihabara are noticing a difference in demand for flash cards already. Regarding the R4, one staffer noted, "The rush in demand has been amazing. These devices always sell well. But this weekend should be staggering, don't you think?" Amazon.jp has also seen a rise in cart sales, which is to be expected.

We're sure Nintendo foresaw the immediate panic following the company's announcement, and that's the risk they decided to take -- watching things get worse before they get better. If Nintendo and the others win the suit, though, it will likely be worth their while in the end.

[Thanks, supa_s!]

JoystiqPotential flash cart ban helps R4 sales originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 Jul 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>akihabaraflash-cardflash-cartjapanlawsuitpiracyr4r4dssuitWed, 30 Jul 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo and others file suit against flash cart sellers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/29/nintendo-and-others-file-suit-against-flash-cart-sellers/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/29/nintendo-and-others-file-suit-against-flash-cart-sellers/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/29/nintendo-and-others-file-suit-against-flash-cart-sellers/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Nintendo is finally taking aggressive action against piracy, as the company is suing five Japanese firms over flash cart equipment. The Big N is just one of many plaintiffs in the case, though, with fifty-three others joining in to aid the fight -- just a few companies that you may have heard of, like, oh, Square Enix, Sega, Level-5, Hudson, Pokemon, Capcom, Namco Bandai, SNK Playmore, Koei, and so forth.

While details are scarce, we can imagine a lot of popular carts (like the R4), if not all carts, will be affected. Should Nintendo and friends win the suit, selling and importing such carts will be illegal, meaning that people would have to resort to the black market to get their hands on one.

We understand why Nintendo and other companies would want to fight the good fight against piracy, but we can't help but fret over the impact on our precious homebrew hobby. At any rate, we'll give you more information as this case unfolds.

[Via Joystiq; Thanks, Kimiko!]

JoystiqNintendo and others file suit against flash cart sellers originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 Jul 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomflash-cardflash-carthudsonkoeilevel-5majiconnamco-bandaipiracypiratepokemonr4segasnk-playmoresquare-enixTue, 29 Jul 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo files lawsuit to curb DS piracy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/29/nintendo-files-lawsuit-to-curb-ds-piracy/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/29/nintendo-files-lawsuit-to-curb-ds-piracy/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/29/nintendo-files-lawsuit-to-curb-ds-piracy/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Nintendo has filed a lawsuit in Japan against five retailers for "importing and selling equipment that enables illegal game programs to be played on [the Nintendo DS]" -- presumably flash carts such as R4. According to Reuters, Nintendo is joined by 54 other Japanese developers.

While the lawsuit is intended to thwart piracy, an unfortunate side effect is a hit to the homebrew community. If you were ever planning to pick up a flash cart for the DS, you might want to go ahead and grab one while you can.

JoystiqNintendo files lawsuit to curb DS piracy originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 Jul 2008 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSflash-carthomebrewlawsuitpiracyr4Tue, 29 Jul 2008 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Retailers hoping for R4 ban in UK]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/22/retailers-hoping-for-r4-ban-in-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/22/retailers-hoping-for-r4-ban-in-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/22/retailers-hoping-for-r4-ban-in-uk/#commentsFiled under:

Retailers in the UK are losing sleep over DS flash carts, and that's turning them into big old grumps. As you probably know, flash carts not only offer interesting homebrew opportunities, but they also provide owners with the means to pirate games. Piracy has been cutting into DS software sales, and retailers? They're not very happy.

The cart under attack is, of course, the R4DS -- it is the most mainstream one, after all. Retailers don't want R4s to be sold anymore, and are calling for a UK ban on the product. SimplyGames.com has already pulled the flash card from its site after a "conversation with Nintendo." (As far as we can tell, the site isn't selling alternative carts, either.)

We know what you're thinking -- the R4 isn't the only piracy option out there. Yet, it's likely that other flash cards will find themselves on the chopping block, too. A nationwide ban on the R4 and others probably won't happen, though, and even if it does, many will just turn to imports.

Being the good souls that we are, we're assuming that most of you aren't pirates and can sympathize with suffering retailers. Still, do you think that warrants a ban on flash carts?

JoystiqRetailers hoping for R4 ban in UK originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 Jul 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banflash-cardflash-cartgreat-britainpiracyr4ukunited-kingdomTue, 22 Jul 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[UK retailer pulls R4 after ELSPA threats]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/11/uk-retailer-pulls-r4-after-elspa-threats/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/11/uk-retailer-pulls-r4-after-elspa-threats/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/11/uk-retailer-pulls-r4-after-elspa-threats/#commentsFiled under: ,

It looks like the tide is finally turning against the R4 flash cart in the UK. After yesterday's statement from the ELSPA on the matter, Brit retailer SimplyGames.com has decided to drop the R4 from its range entirely.

"Since launching them we have reflected on the overall impact R4 cards will have on long-term software sales and I have talked openly to senior people at Nintendo UK about the situation," explained SimplyGames' Neil Muspratt, who we're guessing may have received a grouchy phone call from Nintendo. "We have concluded that they are not at all healthy for software sales."

Muspratt then urged Amazon to follow SimplyGames' example. As we write this, the R4 listing on Amazon's UK site notes that "we don't know when or if this item will be back in stock," though no official statement has been released by the site. As for all you UK-based homebrewers out there, just be thankful there are plenty of alternatives out there.

JoystiqUK retailer pulls R4 after ELSPA threats originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 Jul 2008 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>flashcartpiracyr4r4dsukyarrFri, 11 Jul 2008 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[ELSPA wants pirates stranded without R4]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/elspa-wants-pirates-stranded-without-r4/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/elspa-wants-pirates-stranded-without-r4/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/elspa-wants-pirates-stranded-without-r4/#commentsFiled under:


Otherwise known as the Entertainment & Leisure Software Publishers Association (an organization working within the British games industry), the ELSPA isn't happy about the abundance of R4 flash carts in the hands of DS owners. Nor is it happy about the availability of these little devices, which -- homebrew applications aside -- people are using to play pirated DS ROMS. If you want an R4, it's easy to buy one from Amazon, eBay, or a wealth of independent online retailers.

According to the ELSPA, "The supply of these items is an infringement and an offence under the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988 and the Trade Marks Act 1994." So, how did they get onto shelves in the first place? Clearly the yawn-inducing law behind it all is more complex than simply "they are illegal," otherwise the shops wouldn't still be selling them. Which they are.

Long story short, it's a mess of regulations and red tape, and we've heard it all before. It's hardly a crystal-clear situation where legal teams "will take action where and when appropriate." If a blanket ban of selling flash carts suddenly falls over England, and police start breaking down doors of R4 traders, we'll let you know. Until then, get out there and buy some good games, and use any external device responsibly.

JoystiqELSPA wants pirates stranded without R4 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Jul 2008 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>britainelspaenglandflashcartpiracyr4r4dsukyarrThu, 10 Jul 2008 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Future R4 firmware to sabotage clones, brick DSes?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/future-r4-firmware-to-sabotage-clones-brick-dses/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/future-r4-firmware-to-sabotage-clones-brick-dses/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/future-r4-firmware-to-sabotage-clones-brick-dses/#commentsFiled under: ,



It's a funny twist that the R4DS, a product used mostly for pirating games, has found itself now battling it out with counterfeits carts that have infiltrated the market, but we assume that's just how Chinese flashcart companies roll.

Seeking to eliminate its knock-off competition, Team R4 has announced that as of September 15, it will release firmware that will only work on genuine R4 flashcarts, according to a statement translated by GBAtemp. As an added deterrent, users attempting to load the firmware on illegitimate carts could potentially damage their DS permanently, leaving their system unusable.

What if you've unknowingly bought a fake R4 (for running homebrew software, of course) and brick your DS after trying to install the updated firmware? Team R4 has stated that it will not accept responsibility, advising that you contact your "unscrupulous" shop to complain. Thanks, Team R4!

We understand that it's annoying to have all these companies drinking their milkshake, but is this really necessary? Won't this drive away potential R4 customers, not to mention people curious about experimenting with DS homebrew? Make sure to look through our (semi) ultimate homebrew guide if you're interested in finding flashcart alternatives that won't leave your system bricked.

See also: Homebrew Glossary

[Via GBAtemp]

JoystiqFuture R4 firmware to sabotage clones, brick DSes? originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Jul 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beastie-boysbrickcounterfeitfirmwarer4sabotageThu, 03 Jul 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Flashcart piracy marches on in Korea]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/19/flashcart-piracy-marches-on-in-korea/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/19/flashcart-piracy-marches-on-in-korea/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/19/flashcart-piracy-marches-on-in-korea/#commentsFiled under:

Although most of Nick Rumas' Gamasutra article on the ubiquity of R4 flashcart piracy in Korea is based on anecdotal evidence, we still found his piece to be pretty fascinating. While DS piracy may not be rampant in the U.S., Korea is renowned as a hotbed of piracy in videogaming, and Rumas claims that as many as three in five DS owners there possess a flashcart -- and we can't see all of those being used for homebrew.

Rumas also tells tales of traders in Seoul's Yongsan Electronics Market openly selling customized R4 flashcarts to customers (who simply pay up their $87 and select the titles they'd like from a master list), and of Korean consumers who are far more clued-up about game piracy than their western equivalents (including middle-aged women, and young children).

He eventually chalks this widespread acceptance of piracy up to more than one factor, including Korea's low minimum wage, an increasingly high cost of living, an apathetic government, and the fact that downloading games without paying for them is simply more of a cultural norm. With the DS now selling in respectable numbers in Korea, we can't imagine Nintendo being overly happy to hear of Korea's piracy endemic, but as Rumas notes, "Regardless of what [government] measures are undertaken, no real dent ever seems to be made."

JoystiqFlashcart piracy marches on in Korea originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Jun 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>flashcartkoreapiracyr4Thu, 19 Jun 2008 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A guide to homebrew on the DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/a-guide-to-homebrew-on-the-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/a-guide-to-homebrew-on-the-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/a-guide-to-homebrew-on-the-ds/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


The homebrew community lurves the Nintendo DS, and it's no surprise why: a portable system with WiFi capabilities, two screens, and none of the firmware-updating nonsense that the PSP has become infamous for? If we had the skills, we'd be 'brewing it up too.

Luckily, our BFF's over at DS Fanboy have put together an incredibly handy guide to the best DS homebrew peripherals, and what to do with them once they arrive on your doorstep. It even comes with a handy glossary, so you can feel cool and start dropping terms like "MoonShell" and "DLDI." Instant homebrew cred!

JoystiqA guide to homebrew on the DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 May 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>diyDShomebrewr4Tue, 20 May 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Homebrew Solution: R4DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/homebrew-solution-r4ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/homebrew-solution-r4ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/homebrew-solution-r4ds/#commentsFiled under: ,

R4DS
Slot-1 (All-in-one)
Also needed: MicroSD card
Price: $35-$50
Find it: Gameryeeeah, Real Hot Stuff, Modchip Store

Probably the most popular storage device cart (or at least the most well-known), the R4 is a safe choice for people new to the homebrew community. It's essentially the same as the M3, and just as easy to set up. Also, it's unlikely that you'll ever have to deal with DLDI patching with an R4.

Just follow our directions below or check out our step-by-step picture guide, and you'll be experiencing homebrew in no time.

So you bought the R4DS -- what now?

The R4DS storage device comes with a USB MicroSD card reader/writer and a protective case to hold your cart. As stated above, though, you'll need a MicroSD card. (Note: The R4 is only compatible with MicroSD cards that are 2GB or less.)

Once you have your card, insert it into the USB MicroSD card reader (be careful!). Then, pop the USB reader into your computer's USB port. When prompted by "AutoPlay," click on "Open folder to view files." (Note: If you're not prompted, make sure that your computer is reading your USB drive properly. If it is, just open the drive manually through your "My Computer" folder. If not, there may be a problem with your USB drive or MicroSD card.)

That's easy enough, but how do I set it up for homebrew?

Just go here to download the most recent kernel and the extract the files onto your computer. In the "English" folder there will be four files to copy/paste onto your MicroSD card:
  • _system_ folder
  • moonshl folder
  • _DS_MENU.DAT
  • _DS_MSHL.NDS
So now that your homebrew is set up, how do you actually do stuff?

Congratulations! You've set up your R4, complete with MoonShell. The rest of what you do simply depends on your own needs and wants. If you want homebrew games, make a "Games" folder and put it in the root directory. If you want music, make a "Music" folder; if you want applications (like iPod DS or PictoDrive), make an "Applications" folder, and so on.

Now, get to the downloading

It's nice that you have all these nifty folders, but it's no fun if they're empty -- so go on and add some programs and multimedia! If you have no idea where to start, check out some of our past recommendations by scanning through our homebrew category.

Be careful to check if what you're downloading has special instructions. Some programs (like DSOrganize, for example) might need to be installed into the root directory. Otherwise, just put your homebrew games into your "Games" folder, music files into your "Music" folder, etc.

So you have the programs you want -- now what?

Remove your USB reader from your computer, take out the MicroSD card carefully, put the MicroSD card into the R4 storage cart, and put the R4 storage cart into your DS. Then, turn on your DS. Once it loads, you'll notice a menu that's split into three different sections: Game, Multimedia, and Boot Slot-2.


"Game" (left icon) is where you go to open all .nds files, such as DSOrganize, iPod DS, emulators, and any homebrew games that you've downloaded. Only folders and .nds files will show up here, so don't worry if everything else appears to be missing. "Multimedia" (middle icon) takes you to MoonShell, where you open multimedia files. "Boot Slot-2" (right icon) is what you'd use if you had a GBA expansion pack or other slot-2 device inserted into your DS.

Where can I go to for more in-depth information on the R4DS?

Still confused? Use our step-by-step picture walkthrough to make setting up your R4DS even easier. If you have other questions, though, your best bet would be to visit community sites like GBATemp.net or the (unofficial) R4DS Support Forums.

Features: Built-in media player (MoonShell), skinnable interface, automatic DLDI patching, Slot-2 expansion support, Wi-Fi compatibility, operable with both the touchscreen and buttons/d-pad, constantly updated firmware (available on the R4DS website)
Possible problems: Not as power efficient as a normal DS cart, some programs must go in the root directory, not compatible with MicroSD cards over 2GB (MicroSDHC cards)
Accessories: USB MicroSD card reader/writer, protective case to store the R4 cart
Language support: English, French, and Korean

Jargon flying right over your head? Check out our homebrew glossary for more information!

M3 Back Other

JoystiqHomebrew Solution: R4DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 May 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>flash-cartflashcartguidehow-tomoonshellr4r4-revolutionr4dsstorage-devicewalkthroughTue, 20 May 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Fanboy's (semi) ultimate homebrew guide]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/ds-fanboys-semi-ultimate-homebrew-guide/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/ds-fanboys-semi-ultimate-homebrew-guide/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/ds-fanboys-semi-ultimate-homebrew-guide/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Where there's a system, there's a community of hobbyist programmers willing to tear it down, build it back up, and make it better, and they've been doing it to the DS from nearly the moment the handheld hit shelves. As the necessary hardware has grown cheaper, easier to use, and more widely available (when not sold out), the DS homebrew community in turn has grown stronger, producing some applications that are so good, they rival (or better!) similar commercial products.

But with all of the homebrew solutions available, how does someone new to the scene know where to start? A quick search for guides returns information that can seem complicated and confusing, and many DS owners are wary of spending money on hardware that may not work with their particular system or with the applications and homebrew games they're interested in trying out. The reality is that homebrew on the DS is much easier than it seems, thanks to breakthroughs in the scene, and DS Fanboy is dedicated to helping you navigate the ocean of user-generated content available. From searching out Slot-1 solutions to taking you through them, we've got all the information you need to get started, no matter how little you know about DS homebrew. If you're really lost, check out our handy homebrew glossary for help.

It's worth mentioning that we're focusing solely on the newer flash carts for DS homebrew here. With the advent of the all-in-one Slot-1 flash cart, there's little reason for anyone to go with the more complicated Slot-2 devices. While we cover some of that terminology in our glossary, we do so only to help provide a guide for those DS owners just getting started, who may encounter such terms as PassMe and wonder just what it might be.

From here, you can hit the jump to see an index of this article's contents, or simply follow the arrows if you'd like to go through step by step. Comments are open on every page, but you can always return here to the main discussion by way of a DS Lite icon on each page.



CycloDS Evolution

Continue reading DS Fanboy's (semi) ultimate homebrew guide

JoystiqDS Fanboy's (semi) ultimate homebrew guide originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 May 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cyclods-evolutionflash-cartflashcarthb08joystiqfeaturesm3-realm3dsr4r4dsTue, 20 May 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo pressures Akihabara vendors to pull R4 carts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/28/nintendo-pressures-akihabara-vendors-to-pull-r4-carts/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/28/nintendo-pressures-akihabara-vendors-to-pull-r4-carts/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/28/nintendo-pressures-akihabara-vendors-to-pull-r4-carts/#commentsFiled under:

If you've ever been to the Akihabara district in Tokyo, you probably know that stores there stock R4s. Well, at least they did stock them. Many Japanese retailers, including the online ones, have been pressured by Nintendo to discontinue their support for R4 carts. The extent of Nintendo's threats weren't made clear, but it's likely that they would no longer provide their products to these stores if the retailers didn't remove R4s from their inventories.

Nintendo is being naive if they think this is going to help alleviate piracy issues. People who want to pirate games will find a way to pirate games, whether the equipment to do so is out in the open or not. The R4 cart is also not the only means for people to download games -- we're sure Nintendo knows this.

All the same, we can sympathize with Nintendo. The fight against piracy is an uphill one, at best, and since there's not much that Nintendo can do about it, they're doing what they can.

[Via Kotaku]

JoystiqNintendo pressures Akihabara vendors to pull R4 carts originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 28 Mar 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>akihabarajapanpiracyr4tokyoFri, 28 Mar 2008 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ELSPA joins in fight against R4 copying device]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/08/elspa-joins-in-fight-against-r4-copying-device/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/08/elspa-joins-in-fight-against-r4-copying-device/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/08/elspa-joins-in-fight-against-r4-copying-device/#commentsFiled under: ,

We already know that Nintendo alone can't smash all the R4 devices that allow for easy downloading and piracy of DS games. But could the aid of Europe's ELSPA help Nintendo complete its total smashing plan? Probably not, but that hasn't stopped the European trade organization from lending its help to Nintendo in battling the widely available device.

How exactly they'll help isn't yet clear, though. In a cryptically vague statement to MCV, ELSPA said they were "evaluating the R4 game copying device" and "working closely with [Nintendo] to consider the next step in the UK." While that statement doesn't reveal any concrete plans, it also doesn't rule out any potential "next step." S.W.A.T. team raids, tanks in the streets, nuclear strikes --they're all potential piracy-battling strategies that aren't eliminated by this statement. Pirates, start digging your fallout shelters ... NOW!

JoystiqELSPA joins in fight against R4 copying device originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Feb 2008 11:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSELSPANintendopiracypirateR4R4DSFri, 08 Feb 2008 11:10:00 EST<![CDATA[ELSPA: 90 percent of American DS owners are pirates, Us: Huh? [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/01/elspa-90-percent-of-american-ds-owners-are-pirates-us-huh/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/01/elspa-90-percent-of-american-ds-owners-are-pirates-us-huh/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/01/elspa-90-percent-of-american-ds-owners-are-pirates-us-huh/#commentsFiled under:


Sometimes inaccuracies are hard to spot. And sometimes, they just kind of jump up and slap you in the face. For instance, our truth-o-meter dropped into the red zone when we saw this story from Scotland's Sunday Post in which John Hillier, manager of the Entertainment & Leisure Software Publishers Association's Intellectual Property Crime Unit, says that "In America it's thought 90 per cent of Nintendo DS users are playing pirated games because of R4s."

...Ninety percent? Ninety? There are 20 million DS users in North America, and we're supposed to believe that 18 million are dirty, dirty pirates? Listen, one person ripping off a company is too many, but exaggerating the problem only marginalizes it in the eyes of the people you really need to reach: The gamers.

We've emailed the ELSPA for confirmation, and we'll let you know what we hear. But if they insist that the 90 percent of Americans are pirates, we're hanging up our blogging pants and opening up a personalized eye patch store.

Update: Apparently, the Sunday Post misquoted Hillier entirely, reports DS Fanboy. "[Hillier] didn't quote the Sunday Post on any figures whatsoever," said a spokesperson for the ELSPA. The unverified 90% figure supposedly comes from an article published by The Straits Times about piracy in Singapore. Go figure.

[Via DS Fanboy]

JoystiqELSPA: 90 percent of American DS owners are pirates, Us: Huh? [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Feb 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSpiracyR4Fri, 01 Feb 2008 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ 90% of DS owners are pirates? Not bloody likely!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/31/90-of-ds-owners-are-pirates-not-bloody-likely/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/31/90-of-ds-owners-are-pirates-not-bloody-likely/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/31/90-of-ds-owners-are-pirates-not-bloody-likely/#commentsFiled under: ,

In a recent chat with Scotland's The Sunday Post, John Hillier of the ELSPA (Entertainment & Leisure Software Publishers Association) warns retailers that the R4, a popular DS flashcart capable of running pirated and unauthorized software, could ruin businesses and the gaming industry. In the scaremongering piece, Mr. Hiller throws out an unsourced statistic: "In America it's thought 90 per cent of Nintendo DS users are playing pirated games because of R4s."

90%? Considering the near-ubiquity of the handheld and its expanded casual audience, we highly doubt that even 9% of DS owners in the US have a flashcart of any sort, let alone know of their existence. Though we don't consider ourselves supporters of piracy, stating a false figure like that as fact just to rally people to his cause is unconscionable.

In a way, we kind of wish the R4 was that popular, but not for any illegal reasons -- it would likely result in more homebrew projects and a much larger homebrew audience. Mr. Hillier will hear none of that, though: "The R4 has shifted balance of power in the piracy industry to the consumer -- and that is hugely worrying. That's why we intend to stop trade in these chips wherever we can."

Joystiq 90% of DS owners are pirates? Not bloody likely! originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 31 Jan 2008 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>elspaflashcartpiracyr4scotlandThu, 31 Jan 2008 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[DSvision sees a future on the DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/29/dsvision-sees-a-future-on-the-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/29/dsvision-sees-a-future-on-the-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/29/dsvision-sees-a-future-on-the-ds/#commentsFiled under:

When the GBA Movie Player came out, it was pretty underwhelming. AM3 is trying their luck again, however, this time with the DS. The service they'll be providing, called DSvision, will allow DS users to officially download certain books, movies, comics, and music onto their handhelds. The package needed for these downloads is going on sale in Japan this January for 3,980 yen ($37 UDS), which comes with a 512MB microSD card, a form fitting DS cart, and a USB adapter that connects to PCs. The DSvision downloading service, however, won't be available until March.

DSvision seems to be getting a lot more thought and effort put into it than the GBA Movie Player, and it's definitely something to keep an eye out for. We have to wonder, though, how the company will prevent pirates from using their product for unauthorized downloads (our guess is, they can't). Also, people who already own an R4DS might find the DSvision package unnecessary, even though it is an official (and thus, legal) way of distributing media.

[Via Cubed3]

JoystiqDSvision sees a future on the DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Nov 2007 12:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AM3Dai-nippondownloadDSvisiongba-movie-playerr4r4dsThu, 29 Nov 2007 12:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo resisting urge to smash 'R4' device]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/26/nintendo-resisting-urge-to-smash-ds-mod-chip/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/26/nintendo-resisting-urge-to-smash-ds-mod-chip/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/26/nintendo-resisting-urge-to-smash-ds-mod-chip/#commentsFiled under: ,

"We are keeping a close eye on the products and studying them. But we cannot smash all of them," a Nintendo spokesperson tells Times Online. The R4 chip, found in a Chinese-made device being sold in Japan, essentially plugs into the Nintendo DS and allows illegally downloaded games to be played from a removable flash memory cart. Though homebrew and other applications are made possible through its use, Nintendo is primarily concerned by its facilitation of easily pirated games -- and we know Nintendo doesn't like those in the slightest.

Smashing all the devices would likely be a tempting prospect, was it not for the fact that it's entirely legal for stores to sell them. Times Online notes that they're available throughout Tokyo's chief electronics district, Akihabara, with retailers shouting its availability from the rooftops, if not its exact function. "New R4 shipment has finally arrived! You know what it does! Absolutely no questions will be answered concerning this product . . ." is how one sign skirts around the issue.

As it's suggested that the R4 (hardly the first or last of its kind) might take a noticeable byte bite out of Nintendo's profits, perhaps the manufacturer should simply purchase all the chips in the district and then smash them back at the office. Perhaps not the most effective method of attack, but it's sure to bring some release to those frustrated Smash Bros. Brawl programmers.

JoystiqNintendo resisting urge to smash 'R4' device originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Nov 2007 17:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSJapanModdingR4Mon, 26 Nov 2007 17:17:00 EST<![CDATA[R4 hits the mainstream media]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/26/r4-hits-the-mainstream-media/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/26/r4-hits-the-mainstream-media/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/26/r4-hits-the-mainstream-media/#commentsFiled under:

While pirates and homebrewers alike have known about the R4 since last December, the popular flashcart received its first taste of mainstream media attention today with an article in The Times. The piece focuses on characterizing the R4 as a major threat to Nintendo's pockets, citing the slot-1 cart's cheapness (about $40) and ease of use for its popularity among pirates, dismissing its ability to run homebrew "unofficial software" as an aside.

Despite its cautionary tone, the article provides an interesting look at how shops in Tokyo's Akihabara district advertise the product without actually acknowledging its features. One shop was seen putting up a sign that read, "New R4 shipment has finally arrived! You know what it does! Absolutely no questions will be answered concerning this product ..." Some salesman even refer customers to YouTube tutorials instead of explaining the R4's features themselves.

We understand that the R4 and other similar flashcarts make it easy for people to download and play unauthorized ROMs willy-nilly, but we don't think it's nearly as popular with gamers as The Times suggests. Also, we take offense to the article's ignorance of the DS homebrew community and achievements that tools like the R4 have fostered. We're not all pirates!

JoystiqR4 hits the mainstream media originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Nov 2007 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>m3newspaperpiracyr4romtimesMon, 26 Nov 2007 16:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Plundr: Dangerous Shores' location-based gaming weighs anchor on the Nintendo DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/03/plundr-dangerous-shores-location-based-gaming-weighs-anchor-on-the-nintendi-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/03/plundr-dangerous-shores-location-based-gaming-weighs-anchor-on-the-nintendi-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/03/plundr-dangerous-shores-location-based-gaming-weighs-anchor-on-the-nintendi-ds/#commentsFiled under: ,

The main idea behind location-based gaming is to transform the city around you into a new setting that can be interacted with and explored. In Plundr's case, you're the captain of a pirate ship looking to pillage and swashbuckle your way to the top of the buccaneer chain.

Using WiFi positioning to track your movements and superimpose landmarks over your neighborhood map, Plundr builds islands that you can set sail for and investigate. Taking a walk to that coffee shop two blocks away will bring up a trading post where you can buy spices and deliver goods. If you head over to the nearby park, there's a few unsuspecting merchant ships to test your cannons on.

Developer area/code originally designed the title with laptops in mind, but working with the R4DS homebrew platform, the Manhattan-based company was able to port the game to our scurvy handheld and show off the fruits of its efforts at O'Reilly's Where 2.0 Conference late last May. Though we're still waiting to hear more about the clever game, these first shots of Plundr: Dangerous Shores that we scoured up will tide us over for now. Yarr!


[Via slavin fpo]

JoystiqPlundr: Dangerous Shores' location-based gaming weighs anchor on the Nintendo DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 03 Jun 2007 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>area codeareacodedsgpshomebrewlocationlocation-basednintendo dsNintendoDspiracypiratepiratesplundrr4r4dswifiSun, 03 Jun 2007 17:00:00 EST