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[60 GAME Australia stores to close]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/26/60-game-australia-stores-to-close/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/26/60-game-australia-stores-to-close/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/26/60-game-australia-stores-to-close/#comments GAME Australia administrators announced plans to close 60 retail stores at the cost of 264 jobs, GamesIndustry International reported Friday. An additional 17 head office positions will be terminated at the company.

In a media release, Kate Warwick of PricewaterhouseCoopers said, "this is a difficult time for employees and closing the stores was not a decision we made easily. However it is not financially viable to continue to operate at this level at this time." Warwick was appointed as voluntary administrator of GAME Australia on May 14.

The Australian Financial Review posted a list of the 60 stores that have closed.

Joystiq60 GAME Australia stores to close originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 26 May 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiaclosuregamegame-australiaretailSat, 26 May 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Peter Molyneux 'not that interested' in retail]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/peter-molyneux-not-that-interested-in-retail/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/peter-molyneux-not-that-interested-in-retail/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/peter-molyneux-not-that-interested-in-retail/#comments Who goes into a store to buy games anymore? A lot of people, surprisingly, but Peter Molyneux ain't feeling it. For him, it's all about digital distribution.

"The incentives for driving me out of my seat and into a shop is becoming increasingly limited. I don't go to retail to buy a film. I don't go to retail to buy music. I don't go to buy books any more. And I'm certainly not that interested in buying games in shops, myself," he told Develop. "If you look at everything that's exciting, from the resurgence of PC to iPad and iPhones, it's hard to see where retail fits into that."

Molyneux, who recently left Microsoft and started up his own studio, 22 Cans, is hard at work on his first game under the new roof. It's unclear whether that title will rely entirely on digital distribution, but Molyneux has gone on record as saying it'll be his "best" game ever. We wouldn't take that at face value, though; he says that about every one of his games.

JoystiqPeter Molyneux 'not that interested' in retail originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>22-cansdigital-distributionfable-the-journeypeter-molyneuxretailFri, 13 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: UK retailer Game is for sale]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/11/report-uk-retailer-game-is-for-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/11/report-uk-retailer-game-is-for-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/11/report-uk-retailer-game-is-for-sale/#comments UK retailer Game is gearing up to sell the final thing it has on its shelves -- itself -- and has hired Banque Privee Edmond de Rothschild as the sale adviser, Bloomberg cites the Sunday Times as reporting. The Sunday Times doesn't list a source or means of obtaining this information, Bloomberg writes, but with Game's awkward economic happenings recently, this news doesn't come as either a shock or surprise.

Game hasn't been able to stock high-profile titles during recent launches, including Street Fighter X Tekken, Asura's Wrath, Ubisoft's Vita launch titles and Mass Effect 3, the last of which alone lost Game an estimated £2 million ($3.2 million). Game's market value sits at roughly £15 million ($23 million), MCV reports, meaning the lack of just one title, Mass Effect 3, generated a loss of one-seventh of Game's entire worth.

JoystiqReport: UK retailer Game is for sale originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 11 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdsfor-salegamemicrosoftnintendopcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3retailsalesellingvitawiixboxSun, 11 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GAME also not stocking Street Fighter X Tekken, Asura's Wrath]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/05/game-also-not-stocking-street-fighter-x-tekken-asuras-wrath/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/05/game-also-not-stocking-street-fighter-x-tekken-asuras-wrath/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/05/game-also-not-stocking-street-fighter-x-tekken-asuras-wrath/#comments Shoppers on the other side of the pond looking to snag two of Capcom's latest from GAME will have to look elsewhere, as the retailer will not be stocking either Asura's Wrath or Street Fighter X Tekken. The retailer also recently announced that it won't carry Mass Effect 3 and future EA titles. Street Fighter X Tekken and Asura's Wrath are both slated to launch in the UK this Friday, March 9.

Capcom confirmed the news to MCV, which notes that the availability of Resident Evil: Operation Raccoon City, Capcom's next big title, is still up in the air. A spokesperson stated, "Capcom wants to reassure its consumers that both these titles, including the Special Edition of Street Fighter X Tekken, will be available at a wide variety of retailers across the UK and Ireland." The spokesperson added that refunds will be issued to those with pre-orders for either Asura's Wrath or Street Fighter X Tekken, advising customers to contact their local GAME or Gamestation.

JoystiqGAME also not stocking Street Fighter X Tekken, Asura's Wrath originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Mar 2012 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asuras-wrathcapcomgamemicrosoftplaystationps3retailstreet-fighter-x-tekkenukunited-kingdomxboxMon, 05 Mar 2012 18:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Alan Wake PC editions illuminated, not scary anymore]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/alan-wake-pc-editions-illuminated-not-scary-anymore/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/alan-wake-pc-editions-illuminated-not-scary-anymore/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/alan-wake-pc-editions-illuminated-not-scary-anymore/#comments Nordic Games has revealed the contents of its Alan Wake PC editions -- collector's and standard -- which are set to hit Steam on February 16 and retail shelves on March 2. The standard edition includes the full game and The Signal and The Writer DLC packs on one disc, the original soundtrack on a second, six post cards, seven stickers, a poster and a manual.

The collector's edition includes everything in the standard edition, plus audio commentary and background information from developer Remedy Entertainment that can be switched on during the main game. It also has "The Alan Wake Files," 144 pages of evidence complied by in-game author Clay Steward, and a third disc with a making-of feature, the history of Remedy, trailers and behind-the-scenes content.

Alan Wake is set to hit Steam in downloadable form on February 16, at $30 for the standard edition and $35 for the collector's edition, though without the discs and "premium packaging" promised in both retail forms.

JoystiqAlan Wake PC editions illuminated, not scary anymore originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Alan-Wakecollectors-editioneuropenordicpcrelease-dateRemedyremedy-entertainmentretailSTEAMThu, 09 Feb 2012 19:45:00 EST<![CDATA[European retailer Game puts a plaster over its money wound]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/european-retailer-game-puts-a-plaster-over-its-money-wound/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/european-retailer-game-puts-a-plaster-over-its-money-wound/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/european-retailer-game-puts-a-plaster-over-its-money-wound/#comments Earlier this week Game met with lenders to discuss its credit problems and options for staying in business, and now Game reports it will operate "with lower limits" and under "revised terms for its facilities." As of November 2011, Game had 1,275 stores in Europe and Australia, but has hinted that it could sell off more than half of its overseas locations, and it plans to close 60 stores by 2013. It closed 39 locations last year.

Game's economic problems aren't an issue solely for retailers, but can affect the larger gaming industry as well -- both EA and Take-Two discussed Game's position during their Q3 financial calls.

JoystiqEuropean retailer Game puts a plaster over its money wound originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsaustraliaclosuredseuropefinancialgamemicrosoftnintendopcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3pspretailsonyvitawiixboxFri, 03 Feb 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Binding of Isaac: Unholy Edition splats across UK retail shelves March 16 [Update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/27/the-binding-of-isaac-unholy-edition-splats-across-retail-shelve/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/27/the-binding-of-isaac-unholy-edition-splats-across-retail-shelve/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/27/the-binding-of-isaac-unholy-edition-splats-across-retail-shelve/#comments The Binding of Isaac: Unholy Edition is a DRM-free PC and Mac version that includes a free Steam gift key, the full soundtrack, a poster and a 40-page art book. Developed by Edmund McMillen of Super Meat Boy's Team Meat, The Binding of Isaac premiered on Steam in September along with an adorable plush from the Team Meat Shop on Etsy.

If you don't yet know why that darling doll is crying, go ahead and pick up The Binding of Isaac on Steam for $5, or wait for the Unholy Edition to launch in Europe at an unknown price. Or you can just listen to this song, whose recurring line is "To the basement, people, to the basement / Many surprises await you / In the basement, people, in the basement / You hid there last time, you know we're gonna find you."

Update: Merge Games, the publisher behind Isaac's Unholy Edition, is based in the UK. While it doesn't list the retail version specifically as UK-only, we assume that is, in fact, the case. All you North Americans can just crawl back into your basements now, thanks. We've reached out to Merge Games for clarification.

Update 2: Merge Games has confirmed The Binding of Isaac's retail launch for the following regions: UK, Ireland, the Nordic countries, the Benelux, Italy, the Czech Republic, Greece, Turkey and South Africa. Merge Games also handles publishing in Australia and New Zealand.

JoystiqThe Binding of Isaac: Unholy Edition splats across UK retail shelves March 16 [Update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Jan 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>edmund-mcmillenmacpcretailteam-meatthe-binding-of-isaacThe-Binding-of-Isaac-Unholy-EditionFri, 27 Jan 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Play.com lists 'Ubisoft Triple Pack,' containing Beyond Good and Evil HD, Outland, From Dust [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/20/play-com-lists-ubisoft-triple-pack-containing-beyond-good-and/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/20/play-com-lists-ubisoft-triple-pack-containing-beyond-good-and/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/20/play-com-lists-ubisoft-triple-pack-containing-beyond-good-and/#comments It looks like more downloadable titles will be getting the packaged retail treatment, this time courtesy of Ubisoft. Similar to the various other retail packs we've seen in the past, the "Ubisoft Triple Pack" will contain three previously download-only titles for PS3 and Xbox 360: Beyond Good and Evil HD, Outland and From Dust, according to a listing on Play.com.

Play.com's pre-order price of £14.99 equates to roughly $23, although no listings currently exist for the Triple Pack on any of the usual US retailers' websites. We've contacted Ubisoft for clarification regarding the collection's availability and pricing, but we feel safe in assuming that it'll cost more than $1 and less than $100 million, and that it'll be available in a country somewhere on this specific planet.

Update: Ubisoft has responded in a wholly surprising and remarkably unpredictable fashion: "We have nothing to announce at this time."

JoystiqPlay.com lists 'Ubisoft Triple Pack,' containing Beyond Good and Evil HD, Outland, From Dust [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beyond-good-and-evil-hderic-chahifrom-dustHousemarquemicrosoftoutlandretailubisoftUbisoft-MontpellierUbisoft-Shanghaiubisoft-triple-packxboxFri, 20 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft moves 960K Xbox 360 consoles, 750K Kinect units 'week of Black Friday']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/29/microsoft-moves-960k-xbox-360-consoles-750k-kinect-units-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/29/microsoft-moves-960k-xbox-360-consoles-750k-kinect-units-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/29/microsoft-moves-960k-xbox-360-consoles-750k-kinect-units-week/#comments After clocking ten months as the top console on the NPD sales charts, Microsoft had little incentive to lower the price of the Xbox 360 this holiday. Instead, Redmond's strategy has been to partner with retailers to push sale prices, so frugal shoppers have no problem getting a deal while post-holiday pricing remains high so long as strong numbers continue.

To that end, Microsoft just announced that it moved 960,000 consoles in the US "during the week of Black Friday." When asked if that included Cyber Monday, which had some notable Xbox sales of its own, we were told, "These numbers are from Saturday, Nov. 19 through Friday, Nov. 25 and do not include Cyber Monday." Still, without the unfortunately named Cyber Monday, this represents the "biggest week of sales in Xbox history," according to internal Microsoft numbers.

Big whoop, right? What we're really curious about is Kinect. Will it manage to be one of this holiday's "must-have" gifts for a second year in a row? Considering Kinect moved an equally impressive 750,000 units in the US across standalone and bundled offerings, we're inclined to say it's getting there.

JoystiqMicrosoft moves 960K Xbox 360 consoles, 750K Kinect units 'week of Black Friday' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 15:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>black-friday-2011cyber-monday-2011kinectmicrosoftretailsalesxboxTue, 29 Nov 2011 15:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Canadian EB Games stores merging used and new game shelves]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/23/rumor-canadian-eb-games-stores-merging-used-and-new-game-shelve/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/23/rumor-canadian-eb-games-stores-merging-used-and-new-game-shelve/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/23/rumor-canadian-eb-games-stores-merging-used-and-new-game-shelve/#comments Employees of Canadian EB Games stores wrote in to Kotaku to alert the site to an alleged new policy that will make your attempts to shop there even more difficult. According to the tipsters, Canadian EB's will no longer have dedicated areas for used and new games. For each platform, the two will share the exact same wall space.

In addition, used games will be marked with white price stickers, just like new games. To make matters worse, one employee said that new games are to be buried behind the used ones.

Another Canadian EB employee told Kotaku that these claims aren't accurate, and we have yet to see anything official from EB/GameStop, so don't start boycotting EB just yet -- at least not just in response to this issue.

JoystiqRumor: Canadian EB Games stores merging used and new game shelves originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Nov 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>canadaeb-gamesgamestopretailused-gamesWed, 23 Nov 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Warner Bros. casting Witcher 2 for Xbox 360 in NA]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/21/warner-bros-casting-witcher-2-for-xbox-360-in-na/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/21/warner-bros-casting-witcher-2-for-xbox-360-in-na/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/21/warner-bros-casting-witcher-2-for-xbox-360-in-na/#comments Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment will publish The Witcher 2: Assassins Of Kings in North America early next year, providing sales and marketing resources that North American PC publisher Atari likely wouldn't be able to provide for a console launch.

"We are sure that this partnership with Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, with its strong position in the entertainment sector and particularly in the video and games distribution market in North America, will help us to achieve even bigger success in the most important market for Xbox 360 games," said Adam Kiciński, president of CD Projekt RED. "This is also a big distinction for us, that Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment recognizes The Witcher 2 as a rare example of a game with world-class production values, which merges a very ambitious and complex approach with big commercial potential."

And as WB "recognizes" the publishing opportunities for Witcher 2 in North America, THQ will work PAL territories. Meanwhile, Atari and Namco Bandai continue PC publishing duties for NA and PAL, respectively. Anybody else want in on Geralt? Because it looks like CD Projekt RED is open to multiple partners.

Continue reading Warner Bros. casting Witcher 2 for Xbox 360 in NA

JoystiqWarner Bros. casting Witcher 2 for Xbox 360 in NA originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Oct 2011 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cd-projekt-redmicrosoftretailthe-witcher-2Warner-Bros-Interactive-EntertainmentwbiexboxFri, 21 Oct 2011 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Batman: Arkham City Xbox 360 bundle swoops onto Amazon.de]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/28/batman-arkham-city-xbox-360-bundle-swoops-onto-amazon-de/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/28/batman-arkham-city-xbox-360-bundle-swoops-onto-amazon-de/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/28/batman-arkham-city-xbox-360-bundle-swoops-onto-amazon-de/#comments When we first saw this Batman: Arkham City Xbox bundle, outed by Amazon Germany, we assumed it was the fancy custom console given away to one lucky PAX-goer; instead, this bundle includes a 250GB matte black Xbox 360, the usual headset and controller, and a copy of the game.

At €279.99, that puts this console at just a €30 premium over the un-Batman'd Xbox offering. Though it may not have a fancy paint job, it respects the fact that we're not all Bruce Wayne.

JoystiqBatman: Arkham City Xbox 360 bundle swoops onto Amazon.de originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Sep 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonBatman-Arkham-Asylum-2Batman-Arkham-CitybundlegermanymicrosoftretailxboxWed, 28 Sep 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[68 percent of European Xbox Live subscriptions purchased at retail]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/03/68-percent-of-european-xbox-live-subscriptions-purchased-at-reta/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/03/68-percent-of-european-xbox-live-subscriptions-purchased-at-reta/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/03/68-percent-of-european-xbox-live-subscriptions-purchased-at-reta/#comments Despite living in a world where automatic renewal is a thing, a full two-thirds of European Xbox Live subscriptions are purchased at retail locations rather than online or through the console itself, according to Xbox Live marketing manager Robin Burrows.

This statistical tidbit was revealed during an interview with MCV, where Burrows also stated that Microsoft is in the process of testing new ways of manifesting digital products in meatspace, specifically referencing "point-of-sale activation," which allows shoppers to activate their newly purchased codes immediately after purchasing them.

Just like you'd be able to do if you hadn't gone to the store to buy something that already exists in your house.

Joystiq68 percent of European Xbox Live subscriptions purchased at retail originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 03 Sep 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europemicrosoftretailRobin-BurrowssubscriptionsxboxXbox-LiveSat, 03 Sep 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Back to the Future goes retail as Telltale becomes PS3, Wii publisher]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/24/back-to-the-future-goes-retail-as-telltale-becomes-ps3-wii-publ/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/24/back-to-the-future-goes-retail-as-telltale-becomes-ps3-wii-publ/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/24/back-to-the-future-goes-retail-as-telltale-becomes-ps3-wii-publ/#comments Taking a cue from the subject matter of Back to the Future: The Game, Telltale and Sony are going to begin selling the episodic adventure game in an old-fashioned manner: boxed copies in stores. Telltale has 'expanded' its publishing agreement with Sony to include retail games, the first of which will be Back to the Future. The disc version will be released this October, at the same $19.99 price point as the digital version.

The agreement isn't exclusive to Back to the Future; Telltale now has the option to publish retail versions of any of its PSN games. To date, that includes Puzzle Agent, Strong Bad's Cool Game for Attractive People, Tales of Monkey Island, and Sam & Max: The Devil's Playhouse.

GamePro reports that Telltale has also signed on as a Wii retail publisher, also planning a retail version of Back to the Future this October for the same price. Previous Wii retail games from the developer, including Sam & Max seasons one and two, were published by other companies.

Continue reading Back to the Future goes retail as Telltale becomes PS3, Wii publisher

JoystiqBack to the Future goes retail as Telltale becomes PS3, Wii publisher originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Aug 2011 11:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventureback-to-the-futureplaystationps3publishingretailtelltale-gamesWed, 24 Aug 2011 11:20:00 EST<![CDATA[The Gunstringer will be $40, comes with Fruit Ninja Kinect and free DLC, this September]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/22/the-gunstringer-will-be-40-comes-with-fruit-ninja-kinect-and-f/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/22/the-gunstringer-will-be-40-comes-with-fruit-ninja-kinect-and-f/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/22/the-gunstringer-will-be-40-comes-with-fruit-ninja-kinect-and-f/#commentsWhen Twisted Pixel announced that its Kinect-based, undead western marionette shooter would gallop past Xbox Live Arcade and ride right into Retailville, we wrote, "Twisted Pixel isn't talking price right now, but considering most Kinect games go for $50, we'd say that's a safe bet." Well ... we were wrong. And we're sorry. And we hope you didn't bet any actual money.

Microsoft just announced that The Gunstringer will be hitting shelves on September 13 in North America, Australia, New Zealand and Asia, and September 16 in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Oh, you wanted to know the price? How does $40 sound to you? Oh ... well, how about $40 and a free code for Fruit Ninja Kinect, itself valued at $10?

Still not enough? You drive a hard bargain, friend! How about some free launch DLC titled "The Wavy Tube Man Chronicles" in which you battle "the time-traveling son of Wavy Tube Man." Here, we'll use Microsoft's description:
In this add-on, Wavy Tube Man Jr. steals a time machine to prevent his father's death at the hands of "The Gunstringer," and it's up to players to battle classic western cowboys and futuristic warriors to save the world from destruction.
Wait a second ... you're still not satisfied? Can you not be sated? Is there nothing that can match your appetite for deals? Fine, if you pre-order the game from "select US and European retailers [...] you'll receive two tokens for a free Avatar Prop from the game." There, that's it. That's all you're getting. We're exhausted.

Continue reading The Gunstringer will be $40, comes with Fruit Ninja Kinect and free DLC, this September

JoystiqThe Gunstringer will be $40, comes with Fruit Ninja Kinect and free DLC, this September originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Jul 2011 10:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>combofruit-ninja-kinecthalfbrick-studioskinectmicrosoftrelease-dateretailthe-gunstringertwisted-pixelxboxFri, 22 Jul 2011 10:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Some retailers put Earth Defense Force: Insect Armageddon out early]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/03/some-retailers-put-earth-defense-force-insect-armageddon-out-ea/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/03/some-retailers-put-earth-defense-force-insect-armageddon-out-ea/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/03/some-retailers-put-earth-defense-force-insect-armageddon-out-ea/#comments Reports are coming in that local GameStop stores have taken to selling the new Earth Defense Force: Insect Armageddon early this weekend. The title's not due out until Tuesday in North America, but we called our closest purveyor of giant ant-killing interactive entertainment, and sure enough, they confirmed it's available for the standard price of $39.99.

As with all of these early release deals, your mileage may vary, so don't come bug us when a store near you says they still can't sell it until the release date. But all indications are that the launch date's been moved up, perhaps to take advantage of the holiday weekend. Because, you know, there's nothing more American than fireworks, BBQ, and destroying an army of huge insects?

JoystiqSome retailers put Earth Defense Force: Insect Armageddon out early originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 03 Jul 2011 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>d3-publisherearth-defense-force-insect-armageddongamestopmicrosoftplaystationps3release-dateretailxboxSun, 03 Jul 2011 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Dungeons and Dragons: Daggerdale lands on PC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/28/dungeons-and-dragons-daggerdale-limps-onto-the-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/28/dungeons-and-dragons-daggerdale-limps-onto-the-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/28/dungeons-and-dragons-daggerdale-limps-onto-the-pc/#comments Atari has announced that Dungeons & Dragons: Daggerdale is now available for the PC. We didn't really like the hack-and-slash title, calling it "a terrible use of Wizards of the Coast's timeless license" (ouch), but hey, maybe you're a huge completist and absolutely must play through anything and everything having to do Forgotten Realms. If that's the case, you can pick up the game for $14.99 at a fine e-tailer near you.

Continue reading Dungeons and Dragons: Daggerdale lands on PC

JoystiqDungeons and Dragons: Daggerdale lands on PC originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 28 Jun 2011 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ataridDdungeons-and-dragons-daggerdalepcretailwizards-of-the-coastTue, 28 Jun 2011 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Electronic Arts opening EA Sports retail store in Charlotte airport]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/14/electronic-arts-opening-ea-sports-retail-store-in-charlotte-airp/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/14/electronic-arts-opening-ea-sports-retail-store-in-charlotte-airp/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/14/electronic-arts-opening-ea-sports-retail-store-in-charlotte-airp/#comments It's a situation that the non-sporting chapter of the games community is likely familiar with -- you stop by your local GameStop on an early fall evening to grab a copy of some non-athletic title therein, but are prevented from crossing the building's threshold by an impenetrable wall of Madden enthusiasts. We've got great news for folks living in the vicinity of the Charlotte Douglas International Airport: EA plans to open an EA Sports retail location in said airport's terminal, potentially limiting your run-ins with prospective wedgie-executors.

News of the store's construction came from EA Sports VP of brand marketing Chris Erb, who told Forbes the megapublisher hopes the retail location will be the first of three stores opening across the nation. No details were given on where the other two locations will be planted, but we suggest they take their business to a place that's a little more accessible than an airport terminal. You know, like literally any other place on the planet.

JoystiqElectronic Arts opening EA Sports retail store in Charlotte airport originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Jun 2011 19:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charlotteeaea-sportsmaddenmadden-nfl-12microsoftnintendoplaystationps3retailwiixboxTue, 14 Jun 2011 19:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Escalation marks GameStop's biggest DLC launch in record first quarter]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/20/escalation-marks-gamestops-biggest-dlc-launch-in-record-first-q/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/20/escalation-marks-gamestops-biggest-dlc-launch-in-record-first-q/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/20/escalation-marks-gamestops-biggest-dlc-launch-in-record-first-q/#comments The recent Call of Duty: Black Ops "Escalation" DLC has taken the crown at GameStop as its largest DLC launch ever, according to the company's latest earnings call. The map pack sold 50,000 copies as pre-orders and 200,000 in store during the first week of availability. Digital sales in general are on the rise at the retailer as well, growing 53 percent year-over-year.

The first quarter of 2011 was a good one for GameStop overall, as the company reported record sales of $2.28 billion. HD console games were a big driver, as was the Nintendo 3DS launch, combined with a solid 9.5 percent growth in "pre-owned" (read: used) games and accessories. Pokémon Black and White were the top titles of the quarter, with Mortal Kombat, Marvel vs. Capcom 3, Black Ops and Homefront filling out the top five.

JoystiqEscalation marks GameStop's biggest DLC launch in record first quarter originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 May 2011 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Call-of-Duty-Black-Opsdigitalearningsgamestopmicrosoftmoneypcplaystationps3q1-2011retailsalesxboxFri, 20 May 2011 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Best Buy distributing 3DS content through SpotPass]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/17/best-buy-distributing-3ds-content-through-spotpass/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/17/best-buy-distributing-3ds-content-through-spotpass/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/17/best-buy-distributing-3ds-content-through-spotpass/#comments We trust that you're already carrying your 3DS around with you wherever you go -- your Nintendogs need the exercise, you know -- but you want to make doubly sure you bring it with you should you cross the threshold of a Best Buy this summer. The store has partnered with Nintendo to deliver 3DS content via the SpotPass feature starting June 7, including "exclusive offers as well as additional entertainment content such as gaming extras and movie trailers."

No specific "gaming extras" or trailers were mentioned in the partnership's press release, but any reason to dust off the 3DS' SpotPass is a welcome opportunity, indeed. We haven't used a handheld gaming device's feature this infrequently since the original DS' infamous panini press mode.

Continue reading Best Buy distributing 3DS content through SpotPass

JoystiqBest Buy distributing 3DS content through SpotPass originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 May 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsbest-buydigital-distributiondsnintendoretailspotpassTue, 17 May 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: UK retailers say PS3 trade-ins doubling due to PSN outage]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/12/report-uk-retailers-say-ps3-trade-ins-doubling-due-to-psn-outag/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/12/report-uk-retailers-say-ps3-trade-ins-doubling-due-to-psn-outag/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/12/report-uk-retailers-say-ps3-trade-ins-doubling-due-to-psn-outag/#comments We're approaching the one-month anniversary of the PlayStation Network's deactivation due to that pesky security breach, and according to a report from Edge the downtime's starting to have an effect at UK games retailers. The report cites a number of anonymous game shop clerks, all of whom paint a fairly similar picture of the response to the outage: PlayStation 3 trade-ins have doubled in their respective stores in the past few weeks, with most shoppers exchanging their consoles for Xbox 360s or cash.

That may sound like a fairly inflammatory report, but the reasoning is sound: Almost all the retailers say these shoppers are hardcore FPS players, and are acquiring Xbox 360s to get back in their Call of Duty: Black Ops and Modern Warfare 2 routines. Furthermore, all of the retailers report an increased trade-in rate for the PS3 version of Black Ops. Trading in your gaming console sounds like a pretty drastic way to keep playing a game you love -- then again, we're no strangers to the siren call of the Killstreak.

JoystiqReport: UK retailers say PS3 trade-ins doubling due to PSN outage originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 May 2011 10:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Call-of-Duty-Black-Opscall-of-duty-modern-warfare-2microsoftplaystationps3psnpsn-outage-2011retailtrade-inukxboxThu, 12 May 2011 10:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Ocarina of Time 3D to see limited initial release]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/30/rumor-ocarina-of-time-3d-to-see-limited-initial-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/30/rumor-ocarina-of-time-3d-to-see-limited-initial-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/30/rumor-ocarina-of-time-3d-to-see-limited-initial-release/#comments Japanese retail news blog Sinobi (translated by Andriasang) reports Nintendo has a somewhat surprising supply strategy for its upcoming, three-dimensional remake of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. According to the blog, Nintendo's initial shipment of the title to retailers will be "extremely small." Furthermore, Nintendo supposedly isn't letting retailers order extra units of the game, and is allotting a limited number of copies for all retailers, regardless of their respective size.

It seems bananas to limit supply on the 3DS' most anticipated title to date, but Sinobi suggests this could be a reaction to the overstocking of Zelda: Spirit Tracks, which ended up in Japanese bargain bins faster than the franchise is likely used to. If that's the case, then Nintendo is forgetting one very important factor: Spirit Tracks is a pretty okay game, while Ocarina of Time is the best game ever made.

JoystiqRumor: Ocarina of Time 3D to see limited initial release originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 30 Apr 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsjapannintendoretailsupplythe-legend-of-zelda-ocarina-of-timethe-legend-of-zelda-spirit-tracksSat, 30 Apr 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Reggie Fils-Aime talks Nintendo's 3DS supply strategy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/18/reggie-fils-aime-talks-nintendos-3ds-supply-strategy/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/18/reggie-fils-aime-talks-nintendos-3ds-supply-strategy/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/18/reggie-fils-aime-talks-nintendos-3ds-supply-strategy/#comments Remember how finding a Wii after its launch was more difficult than finding ... um, a thing, like -- you know what? There actually isn't an analogy that's applicable, here. It was the hardest thing to find, ever. That was a rough period to be sure, but Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aime recently explained to USA Today, "We learned significant lessons from the launch of Wii and we made sure to have not only ample supply [of 3DS] in the marketplace, but we staged supply so it would not sell out." He added, "That strategy is why you didn't see massive sellouts on Nintendo 3DS."

Fils-Aime explained that, even though the system sold almost 400,000 units in its first week on store shelves, it avoided sellouts largely because Nintendo "had product going direct to store and we also had product in retailers (distribution centers), so they could easily replenish when they had stores running low on inventory." The supply chain seems to be holding up pretty well -- way better than Nintendo's supply strategy for the Wii, which involved making secret wishes on falling stars that Wiis would just, like, appear.

JoystiqReggie Fils-Aime talks Nintendo's 3DS supply strategy originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Apr 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdsnintendoReggie-Fils-AimeretailsalessupplyMon, 18 Apr 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Best Buy building out game departments with new sales desks and trained employees]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/18/best-buy-building-out-game-departments-with-new-sales-desks-and/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/18/best-buy-building-out-game-departments-with-new-sales-desks-and/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/18/best-buy-building-out-game-departments-with-new-sales-desks-and/#comments According a recent presentation by the company, Best Buy plans to add employees and facilities to its retail stores to encourage game sales sometime this fiscal year. The big box store currently sits behind other retailers like GameStop and Walmart in gaming revenue, but hopes to turn that situation around by setting up game-focused employees and sales counters.

The employees will handle trade-ins and preorders, and be expected to sell "exclusive digital add-ons" as customers come in and pick up their games. Best Buy reportedly wants to push a "virtuous cycle," where customers preorder games, buy the DLC at the store, and then use trade-in credits for another preorder as the cycle starts up again.

The game sections in each store are also slated to increase in size, with the less-popular music departments taking the hit in most cases. Best Buy doesn't say if it plans to have free hot dogs for customers who come and buy games, but we're just throwing that out there, guys. Think about it.

JoystiqBest Buy building out game departments with new sales desks and trained employees originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Apr 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>addonsbest-buydigitalemployeesgameretailsalesMon, 18 Apr 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo Wii listed for $170 at all major US retailers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/18/nintendo-wii-listed-for-170-at-all-major-us-retailers/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/18/nintendo-wii-listed-for-170-at-all-major-us-retailers/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/18/nintendo-wii-listed-for-170-at-all-major-us-retailers/#comments Well folks, it's not quite May 15 just yet, but it seems that big box retailers have already begun offering discounts on the Nintendo Wii, dropping the price from $200 to $170. It's not exactly a full-on, official price drop -- not yet, at least -- but it certainly looks like one is imminently approaching.

As indicated last week by a leak at Target and corroborated by listings on the websites of GameStop, Toys 'R Us, and Best Buy, various versions of the Nintendo Wii console bundle are being offered for $170 as of today. Best Buy even got in on the action a bit early over this past weekend. However, if what we've heard about an official price drop in mid-May for the Nintendo Wii is true, then you may just want to wait another few weeks and save yourself a full $50.

JoystiqNintendo Wii listed for $170 at all major US retailers originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Apr 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nintendoprice-dropretailwiiWii-Sports-2Wii-Sports-ResortMon, 18 Apr 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GameStop opens digital storefront on Facebook]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/08/gamestop-opens-digital-storefront-on-facebook/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/08/gamestop-opens-digital-storefront-on-facebook/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/08/gamestop-opens-digital-storefront-on-facebook/#comments If you're uncomfortable with GameStop's tenacity as it pursues your reservations and trade-ins, you'll probably be displeased to learn that "pre-order pokes" could be coming in the near future. The gargantuan games retailer recently opened up a Facebook storefront, through which shoppers can purchase and reserve titles, view trailers and screenshot galleries and, in the near future, earn and redeem PowerUp Rewards points.

Between this and GameStop's recent acquisition of Impulse and Spawn Labs, it seems the retailer's taking its new digital strategy pretty seriously. We wouldn't be surprised to see if the company adopted a presence on LiveJournal, as well. We'd be curious to learn what its mood is like on a day-to-day basis, as well as what hot bands it's totally into right now.

JoystiqGameStop opens digital storefront on Facebook originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>facebookgamestopindustrymarketplaceonlinepcpowerup-rewardspre-orderretailFri, 08 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GameStop indulges in some Impulse buying ... no seriously, it bought Impulse (and Spawn Labs)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/gamestop-indulges-in-some-impulse-buying-no-seriously-it-bo/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/gamestop-indulges-in-some-impulse-buying-no-seriously-it-bo/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/gamestop-indulges-in-some-impulse-buying-no-seriously-it-bo/#comments Love 'em or hate 'em, you can't say the people of GameStop are taking the challenge of "digital" lying down. The massive Texas-based retailer (everything's bigger in Texas) just announced the acquisition of streaming tech outfit Spawn Labs - you'll recall the HD-720 box we brought on the Engadget Show - and digital distribution portal, Impulse.

Whoa, whoa, whoa ... so GameStop purchased Stardock, Impulse's owner? Nope! "GameStop has acquired Impulse, Inc.," the official Stardock FAQ on the deal reads. "Impulse is a separate business unit from Stardock Entertainment." No layoffs are anticipated, staff stays with Impulse, customer service is still handled by Impulse (for now!), and the group is actually hiring.

The press release says that Impulse will offer "three specific components." First is the client, dubbed "Impulse::Client" here, which users can use to download games. Duh. Next is Impulse::Reactor, which "provides content publishers customer friendly DRM and copy protection tools. It also allows developers to enable achievements, account management, friend lists, chat, multiplayer lobbies, and cloud storage within their games." Last is Impulse::Publisher which gives pubs "real-time reporting and management tools."

GameStop's interest in Impulse - one of the industry's biggest competitors to market leader Steam - is obvious. What's not so obvious is its interest in Spawn Labs. "Once the Spawn Labs integration and testing on a new consumer interface is complete, users will have immediate access to a wide selection of high-definition video games on demand on any Internet-enabled device," the press release reads. That sounds to us like GameStop is getting into the cloud-based gaming arena (ie: OnLive).

We're following up with GameStop, Stardock, and all the other concerned parties and we'll let you know what we uncover.

JoystiqGameStop indulges in some Impulse buying ... no seriously, it bought Impulse (and Spawn Labs) originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 31 Mar 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cloud-gamingGameStopImpulseretailSpawn-LabsStardockstreamingThu, 31 Mar 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: GAME bought 3DS stock from Tesco to resell as pre-owned]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/29/report-game-bought-3ds-stock-from-tesco-to-resell-as-pre-owned/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/29/report-game-bought-3ds-stock-from-tesco-to-resell-as-pre-owned/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/29/report-game-bought-3ds-stock-from-tesco-to-resell-as-pre-owned/#comments If you were confused by the presence of a pre-owned 3DS on the shelves of your local GAME outlet on the handheld's launch weekend, Eurogamer's uncovered a possible shady explanation. According to an unnamed source who works for the retailer, a company memo encouraged GAME employees to use money from their registers to purchase a 3DS and game bundle from its competitor, Tesco, for the discounted price of £209.90. They could then trade the merchandise back to GAME for the exact same price.

The memo described this maneuver as "a great opportunity to gain 3DS consoles and games for your store's pre-owned stock." Each pre-owned system could then be "set at the same price as mint due to unexpected supply shortage on the market and the quality of the stock." However, the memo instructs employees not to sell the pre-owned handhelds until the mint hardware is sold out, prohibiting clerks from "up-selling" the used merch.

The document describes these shopping runs as "not mandatory," but Eurogamer reports one GAME employee said his store was reprimanded for not participating.

JoystiqReport: GAME bought 3DS stock from Tesco to resell as pre-owned originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 Mar 2011 21:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdsgamenintendoreportretailtescoukTue, 29 Mar 2011 21:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo reassures UK fans that 3DS won't sell out, but warns that prices will rise]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/25/nintendo-reassures-uk-fans-that-3ds-wont-sell-out-but-warns-th/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/25/nintendo-reassures-uk-fans-that-3ds-wont-sell-out-but-warns-th/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/25/nintendo-reassures-uk-fans-that-3ds-wont-sell-out-but-warns-th/#comments If you didn't pre-order a 3DS for today's UK release -- and you want a 3DS -- Nintendo would like to inform you that you don't have to freak out and rip a display unit out of a store kiosk. Well, that's a bit of a paraphrase.

"We have well in excess of the pre-orders available," Nintendo UK's James Honeywell told Eurogamer. He said that there is "literally no reason" shoppers wouldn't be able to buy a 3DS this weekend.

You might not have to scramble to secure a console, but if you're interested in one, haste may still be in order -- at least, according to Nintendo, who kind of wants you to buy a 3DS right away regardless. The discounts that UK retailers have been offering for the system will dissipate after the launch period, Honeywell said. "I'm not sure a lot of those offers will be there for the long term. Those are great offers for the launch. There's huge amount of noise and hype around the launch. Those prices will start to revert a bit."

JoystiqNintendo reassures UK fans that 3DS won't sell out, but warns that prices will rise originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 Mar 2011 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdsjames-honeywellnintendoretailshortageukFri, 25 Mar 2011 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Kmart offers $25 off 3DS game alongside 3DS system purchase]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/22/kmart-offers-25-off-3ds-game-alongside-3ds-system-purchase/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/22/kmart-offers-25-off-3ds-game-alongside-3ds-system-purchase/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/22/kmart-offers-25-off-3ds-game-alongside-3ds-system-purchase/#comments If you're still trying to decide where to drop your cash on a Nintendo 3DS when it launches this weekend, Kmart's vying for your purchase. Anyone who drops $250 on the handheld can knock $25 off the price of an accompanying launch title. Super Street Fighter IV for a cool $15? Don't mind if we do.

Continue reading Kmart offers $25 off 3DS game alongside 3DS system purchase

JoystiqKmart offers $25 off 3DS game alongside 3DS system purchase originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 Mar 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdskmartnintendoretailTue, 22 Mar 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[UK Mortal Kombat Kollector's Edition bumps bookends for figurine]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/18/uk-mortal-kombat-kollectors-edition-bumps-bookends-for-figurine/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/18/uk-mortal-kombat-kollectors-edition-bumps-bookends-for-figurine/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/18/uk-mortal-kombat-kollectors-edition-bumps-bookends-for-figurine/#comments Mortal Kombat Kollector's Edition Little known fact: Brits can't read. Well, not all of them at least. Despite naming our language, England enjoys an incredible 110 percent illiteracy rate. So it makes total sense then that the North American release of Mortal Kombat would come with bookends -- after all, what else is your book-learned American fighting game fan going to do when he's done with a couple rounds? -- while the UK release is saddled with a "kollectible" figurine.

There's also an exclusive art book (mostly pictures, don't worry), an "in-game Retro Ninja Costume," and some console exclusive avatars and what have you. Enough words, have a taste of these images:

Gallery: Mortal Kombat Kollector's Edition (UK)

JoystiqUK Mortal Kombat Kollector's Edition bumps bookends for figurine originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Mar 2011 18:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>collectors-editionkollectors-editionmicrosoftmortal-kombat-2011Netherrealm-Studiosplaystationps3retailspecial-editionUKWBIExboxFri, 18 Mar 2011 18:27:00 EST<![CDATA[GameStop, Sony, Ubisoft on the growth of retail in the age of downloads]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/15/gamestop-sony-ubisoft-on-the-growth-of-retail-in-the-age-of-do/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/15/gamestop-sony-ubisoft-on-the-growth-of-retail-in-the-age-of-do/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/15/gamestop-sony-ubisoft-on-the-growth-of-retail-in-the-age-of-do/#comments
"We are looking for ways to make money," Sony's senior vice president of publisher relations, Rob Dyer, said at an SXSW Interactive panel about the rise of digital distribution. "We are not looking for a system -- whether it's iPhone, Android, whatever -- that is this wonderful socialist idea that we can give things away for free. "

That helps frame the discussion -- it was from a moneymaking perspective that representatives of Ubisoft, SCEA, and GameStop discussed retail and its role as downloadable content and digitally distributed games become more popular.

Continue reading GameStop, Sony, Ubisoft on the growth of retail in the age of downloads

JoystiqGameStop, Sony, Ubisoft on the growth of retail in the age of downloads originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Mar 2011 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>digital-distributiongamestopretailrob-dyersceasxsw-2011ubisoftTue, 15 Mar 2011 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamestop to stop buying GBA systems and games in April]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/11/gamestop-to-stop-buying-gba-systems-and-games-in-april/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/11/gamestop-to-stop-buying-gba-systems-and-games-in-april/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/11/gamestop-to-stop-buying-gba-systems-and-games-in-april/#comments If you've been waiting to snag that copy of Final Fantasy VI Advance from your local Gamestop until its price gets cut, you might want to stop putting off your purchase, as that price is about to go down from $22.99 to "We don't have any copies anymore." According to a number of our tipsters and a handful of retail locations, the store is set to stop accepting Game Boy Advance games and systems as soon as April 2.

As Gamestop doesn't really get new copies of Game Boy Advance games in anymore, it seems this measure is the first step in phasing out the handheld. We've got our fingers crossed that this new policy will come with a fire sale on some of our favorite GBA titles, which we've lost while sailing the unforgiving seas of time. By which, of course, we mean we left them in our jeans, and sent them through the washing machine.

JoystiqGamestop to stop buying GBA systems and games in April originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 Mar 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsgame-boy-advancegamestopgbanintendoretailFri, 11 Mar 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nikkei: All 400,000 Japanese 3DS units sold out, more on the way]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/27/nikkei-all-400-000-japanese-3ds-units-sold-out-more-on-the-way/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/27/nikkei-all-400-000-japanese-3ds-units-sold-out-more-on-the-way/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/27/nikkei-all-400-000-japanese-3ds-units-sold-out-more-on-the-way/#comments Japanese news outlet Nikkei (via Andriasang) has put a number on the nation's early adoption rate for Nintendo's new, steroscopic handheld: According to their report, Nintendo shipped 400,000 3DS units to Japanese retailers, which managed to just about sell out during its first 24 hours of availability. Who would have thought that there'd be more than 400,000 tech-savvy Nintendo acolytes that lived in Japan? (Us. We would have thought that. As would everyone else.)

If you didn't manage to grab one of the elusive, endangered handhelds, you'll get a second chance soon. According to Andriasang, a number of Japanese tech retailers reportedly received another shipment of 3DS this morning. Which ... probably already sold out by now. Hey, maybe you'll be able to get down on the third shipment! Let's keep hope alive, shall we?

JoystiqNikkei: All 400,000 Japanese 3DS units sold out, more on the way originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 27 Feb 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsbusinessdsindustryjapanlaunchlaunch-daynintendoretailsalesSun, 27 Feb 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[THQ places Amnesia: The Dark Descent in a retail box]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/16/amnesia-the-dark-descent-gets-put-in-a-retail-box/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/16/amnesia-the-dark-descent-gets-put-in-a-retail-box/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/16/amnesia-the-dark-descent-gets-put-in-a-retail-box/#comments Amnesia: The Dark Descent is a frightening game. A pants-wettingly frightening game. One of the few nice things about Frictional Games' heretofore downloadable title is that you can at least pretend that it ceases to exist once the computer is turned off. Apparently not satisfied by this state of affairs, THQ's ValuSoft division will be bringing a box-copy version of the game to retail on February 22 for the decidedly not scary price of $20.

The box itself isn't very frightening at all, almost to the point of being amusing. We can only assume this is to lull new players into a false sense of security before installing the game.

Continue reading THQ places Amnesia: The Dark Descent in a retail box

JoystiqTHQ places Amnesia: The Dark Descent in a retail box originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Feb 2011 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amnesia-the-dark-descentfrictional-gamespcretailthqvalusoftWed, 16 Feb 2011 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: PS3 copies of DC Universe Online tied to one-time-use codes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/14/ps3-copies-of-dc-universe-online-tied-to-one-time-use-codes/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/14/ps3-copies-of-dc-universe-online-tied-to-one-time-use-codes/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/14/ps3-copies-of-dc-universe-online-tied-to-one-time-use-codes/#commentsIf you bought DC Universe Online on PS3 and decided not to commit to it for the usual MMO lifespan of forever, you won't be able to recoup your losses by trading it in. At least, you shouldn't trade it in, even if you find a store who will accept it, or you risk being a super-jerk. Sony Online Entertainment confirmed to Lazygamer that the serial key included with retail copies of the game is a one-time-use thing, and each disc only includes access for one account. That means that the first person to use a copy of DCUO is the only person who can use that copy.

This kind of restriction isn't exactly new to consoles, with trade-ins of every iteration of Phantasy Star Online refused by retailers due to the unique codes tied to each disc. But it's not common -- mostly because MMO-type games on consoles are so uncommon.

JoystiqPSA: PS3 copies of DC Universe Online tied to one-time-use codes originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Feb 2011 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DC-Universe-Onlinemmoplaystationps3psaretailsony-online-entertainmenttrade-inused-gamesMon, 14 Feb 2011 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Yoshida: NGP and PSP will co-exist]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/12/yoshida-ngp-and-psp-will-co-exist/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/12/yoshida-ngp-and-psp-will-co-exist/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/12/yoshida-ngp-and-psp-will-co-exist/#comments Sony Computer Entertainment worldwide studios president Shuhei Yoshida recently reaffirmed his belief in an age-old adage: Make new friends, but don't discontinue the old. Speaking to Edge (via CVG), Yoshida explained that the company plans to allow the PSP and its fresh, fresh successor, the NGP, to co-exist on store shelves. He added that the NGP "can't replace a platform that has already been on sale for seven years now." Wait, that's not how that works? We thought new things replace old things, and that's why they call them "new" and "old," respectively.

Yoshida said that cost plays a part in Sony's strategy, explaining, "In terms of pricing, we can't sell the NGP for the same price as a PSP." He added, "I think the NGP needs time to mature and get adopted by users. So, for the time being, both platforms will coexist." We smell the origins of a wacky, generational gap-based sitcom, here.

JoystiqYoshida: NGP and PSP will co-exist originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 12 Feb 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ngpplaystationplaystation-vitapspretailshuhei-yoshidasonyvitaSat, 12 Feb 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tales of Monkey Island heads to retail in Europe, Collector's Edition announced]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/03/tales-of-monkey-island-heads-to-retail-in-europe-collectors-ed/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/03/tales-of-monkey-island-heads-to-retail-in-europe-collectors-ed/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/03/tales-of-monkey-island-heads-to-retail-in-europe-collectors-ed/#comments Telltale's Tales of Monkey Island is sailing across the ocean for a retail release in Europe and Australia. Set to disembark in April 2011 (hey, traveling by boat ain't fast), the game comes in two editions that include all five episodes in the series, plus a treasure trove of goodies.

The "Premium Edition," priced at £29.99 for the UK, offers production art, desktop wallpapers and "fun forum avatars." The £49.99 "Collector's Edition" holds map of the Gulf of Melange, voodoo card, Club 41 coaster, a piece of eight coin and a Trial of the Century badge. So, if you're Davy Jonesing for some Monkey Island swag, you'll just have to practice holding your breath until April.

Continue reading Tales of Monkey Island heads to retail in Europe, Collector's Edition announced

JoystiqTales of Monkey Island heads to retail in Europe, Collector's Edition announced originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Feb 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europepcretailTales-of-Monkey-IslandTelltaleTellTale-GamesThu, 03 Feb 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Retailers: 3DS games priced at $40-50 in US; £33-40 in UK; €50-60 in Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/19/retailers-3ds-games-priced-at-40-50-in-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/19/retailers-3ds-games-priced-at-40-50-in-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/19/retailers-3ds-games-priced-at-40-50-in-us/#comments Nintendo has refuted our attempts to wrangle 3DS game pricing info so far, but retailer listings may be shedding some light on the subject. We hope you weren't hoping for a standard price point, because it looks like there's some wiggle room. A review of GameStop and Amazon listings reveals 3DS prices of either $39.99 or $49.99 in the US. Meanwhile, Eurogamer reports that UK retailer Game has confirmed the standard software price will be £39.99 in the region, though other UK retailers have prices listed as low as £32.99. Finally, we perused Amazon France and spotted prices of €49.95 and €59.95.

The disparate prices between titles matches up with pricing in Japan, though it is a bit more standardized. We'll keep poking Nintendo for official details.

JoystiqRetailers: 3DS games priced at $40-50 in US; £33-40 in UK; €50-60 in Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 Jan 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3ds3ds-launchamazondseuropegamegamestopnintendopricingretailsoftwareukusaWed, 19 Jan 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamasutra and NPD on 2010's game retail decline]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/17/gamasutra-and-npd-on-2010s-game-retail-decline/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/17/gamasutra-and-npd-on-2010s-game-retail-decline/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/17/gamasutra-and-npd-on-2010s-game-retail-decline/#commentsThe NPD reported last week that retail video game sales were down. Gamasutra's analysis of 2010's NPD numbers offers a bit more context to this claim, in handy chart form (above). Total revenue rose pretty steadily between 2005 and 2008, and then started slipping downward.

Even accounting for digital distribution, according to the NPD, the industry's revenues still don't show growth. "The NPD Group estimates that total consumer spending on games in 2010 was essentially flat from 2009," the Gama article notes, "even when extra-retail sources like digital distribution and social games are considered." Should revenue shrink this year, it will "probably be the longest such contraction in the last 20 years of the video game market."

One area that didn't contract, of course, was the Xbox 360, which experienced its best month ever in December. In 2010, the Xbox 360 made great strides toward catching up with the Wii, "falling short by only 305,000 units."

JoystiqGamasutra and NPD on 2010's game retail decline originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Jan 2011 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsmicrosoftnintendonpdpcplaystationps3pspretailsalessonywiixboxMon, 17 Jan 2011 23:00:00 EST