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[Shane Kim also joins Zipline board of directors]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/shane-kim-also-joins-zipline-board-of-directors/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/shane-kim-also-joins-zipline-board-of-directors/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/shane-kim-also-joins-zipline-board-of-directors/#comments When you've made big money like Shane Kim, former VP of Microsoft Game Studios, you wanna get paid even more spreading that acquired knowledge around like Nutella on breakfast toast. The latest bit of supplemental income for the former exec is a seat on the board of Zipline Games.

"Shane's knowledge, advice and help will be invaluable as we enhance the Moai platform and partner with more and more game studios," said Todd Hooper, CEO of Zipline Games. The plan is for Kim to advise on the development of the Moai mobile, cloud-based platform.

Kim, who spent almost two decades at Microsoft, also recently joined the board of GameStop to advise on its GameStop Impulse digital distribution platform.

JoystiqShane Kim also joins Zipline board of directors originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Aug 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mobileShane-Kimzipline-gamesMon, 08 Aug 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GameStop completes Impulse integration, ex-Microsoft exec Shane Kim joins board]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/13/gamestop-completes-impulse-integration-ex-microsoft-exec-shane/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/13/gamestop-completes-impulse-integration-ex-microsoft-exec-shane/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/13/gamestop-completes-impulse-integration-ex-microsoft-exec-shane/#comments GameStop recently announced it has completed the integration of digital sales platform GameStop Impulse and has added former Microsoft Games Studios VP and strategy honcho Shane Kim to its board of directors. Both are major moves that continue the company's methodical positioning of pieces in preparation to accommodate digitally distributed product alongside boxed retail offerings.

Kim, who spent nearly two decades at Microsoft, had been quite direct about the complications involved in a future where publishers, retail and platform holders had to compromise on games being sold through online portals. With his knowledge of Microsoft's efforts with Xbox Live, he should be a valuable asset advising on GameStop Impulse.

Purchased from Stardock in March, Impulse -- now GameStop Impulse -- is now completely integrated into the company, claiming to offer over 1,200 games at GameStop.com. The company isn't looking to get Steam-rolled when it comes to eye-catching sales, so it plans to hold daily deals on PC titles, with discounts reaching up to 75 percent.

JoystiqGameStop completes Impulse integration, ex-Microsoft exec Shane Kim joins board originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 Jul 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamestopgamestop-impulseimpulsepcshane-kimWed, 13 Jul 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox chief Shane Kim steps down, Spencer and Durkin promoted]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/14/xbox-chief-shane-kim-steps-down-spencer-and-durkin-promoted/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/14/xbox-chief-shane-kim-steps-down-spencer-and-durkin-promoted/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/14/xbox-chief-shane-kim-steps-down-spencer-and-durkin-promoted/#comments After 19 years of working for gaming/computing software juggernaut Microsoft, Shane Kim will step down at the end of this year, according to a report from Gamasutra. His duties as vice president of strategy and business development for the company's Interactive Entertainment Business sector will be filled by Phil Spencer, general manager of Microsoft Game Studios, and Dennis Durkin, chief financial officer for the IEB division.

When asked for his reasons for stepping down, Kim replied, "Well, the JoBro (ed: Jonas Brothers) are about to go on tour again, and, well, you know. You only live once, and that one life should be spent seeing as many JoBro (ed: Jonas Brothers) concerts as humanly possible."

Okay, he didn't really say that. However, a Microsoft representative reportedly told Gamasutra that Kim "expressed a desire to spend more time with family, so that's why he's making his retirement." More details about the two-decade Microsoft veteran's departure should be coming in a press release soon. We wish Mr. Kim the best of luck with his newly acquired free time.
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JoystiqXbox chief Shane Kim steps down, Spencer and Durkin promoted originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Sep 2009 19:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Dennis-Durkinmicrosoftphil-harrisonretirementshane-kimvpxboxxbox-360Mon, 14 Sep 2009 19:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Shane Kim iffy regarding on-demand Xbox 360 games releasing day-and-date with retail]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/30/shane-kim-iffy-on-on-demand-xbox-360-games-releasing-day-and-dat/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/30/shane-kim-iffy-on-on-demand-xbox-360-games-releasing-day-and-dat/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/30/shane-kim-iffy-on-on-demand-xbox-360-games-releasing-day-and-dat/#comments
Shane Kim, Microsoft's VP of strategy and business development for Xbox, admits that the company is "not anywhere close to that world today" of offering day-and-date releases of on-demand Xbox 360 games alongside retail launches. In an interview with Fast Company, Kim expresses that offering Xbox 360 games on the Xbox Marketplace is a "natural evolution," but states there are "complex issues" to deal with by offering digital versions of games on their retail release days. You can't download NVGs, after all.

Kim explains that day-and-date digital releases would require technical effort by publishers to make the process smooth, and there are also business decisions to weigh -- like, you know, upsetting a major retail games giant. According to Kim, Microsoft still has a lot of work to do before offering games through Xbox Live Marketplace on a grand scale.

[Via CVG]

JoystiqShane Kim iffy regarding on-demand Xbox 360 games releasing day-and-date with retail originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Jul 2009 10:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>games-on-demandMicrosoftretailshane-kimXbox-360Thu, 30 Jul 2009 10:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Shane Kim talks mobile-izing Xbox 360, Xbox Live brands]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/17/shane-kim-talks-mobile-izing-xbox-360-xbox-live-brands/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/17/shane-kim-talks-mobile-izing-xbox-360-xbox-live-brands/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/17/shane-kim-talks-mobile-izing-xbox-360-xbox-live-brands/#comments
Though it's been quite some time since we last heard anything about a portable gaming device from Microsoft, corporate VP Shane Kim recently reconfirmed to Kikizo that the company is still very interested in the idea. "We're building a service in Live that will... will extend to other platforms ... no question about it," Kim told them in an interview earlier this week.

He stresses that, with development for Project Natal underway, Microsoft isn't exactly ponying up for extra resources to make portable Xbox gaming a reality. "If we chased after a mobile or handheld opportunity, we would not have the resources and ability to do things like ... Project Natal." Surprisingly, Kim even touches on the always touchy (and often not even mentioned) Live Anywhere initiative, saying, "We talked about Live Anywhere a few years ago ... Live is the connective tissue." From the sounds of things, though Microsoft may very well be thinking about the idea of a gaming handheld in the future, it's not exactly right around the corner.
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JoystiqShane Kim talks mobile-izing Xbox 360, Xbox Live brands originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 Jul 2009 13:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>handheldkikizolive-anywheremicrosoftportableproject-natalshane-kimXbox-360Fri, 17 Jul 2009 13:02:00 EST<![CDATA[MGS Rising levels third-party playing field, Microsoft's Kim declares]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/17/mgs-rising-levels-third-party-playing-field-microsofts-kim-dec/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/17/mgs-rising-levels-third-party-playing-field-microsofts-kim-dec/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/17/mgs-rising-levels-third-party-playing-field-microsofts-kim-dec/#comments Someday, we'll talk about third-party exclusives like the way we talk about car phones, Laserdiscs and troll dolls -- a thing of the past. That someday could be sooner than you think, if Microsoft exec Shane Kim is to be believed. "[Microsoft has] said for a long time that a key part of our strategy with Xbox 360 was a level third-party playing field," Kim tells Gamasutra in a recent interview. "Now we've effectively done that with Metal Gear Solid [Rising] coming to the Xbox 360."

Short of a blank check from Microsoft or Sony -- like, what was the asking price for Agent exclusivity, you know? -- there's little incentive for a third-party publisher to release a big-budget game for only Xbox 360 or PS3. It's possible that third-party exclusives will flourish as small, downloadable games and DLC (though those GTA IV add-ons weren't cheap for Microsoft), but it's more likely that they'll diminish as cheap carnival games -- geddit? Of course, with Microsoft and Sony designing their own waggleware apparatuses, such low-grade third-party exclusives won't necessarily continue to be exclusive, either.

Still, Kim argues that "exclusive content is really important." And so, it's up to the first-party publishers to essentially unlevel the playing field with their own IPs. "[It's] really not about relying on third parties, because I don't think that that is sustainable, as we've proven," Kim concludes. "And it's up to each of us to differentiate on our own."

JoystiqMGS Rising levels third-party playing field, Microsoft's Kim declares originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>exclusivitymetal-gear-solid-risingmgs-risingmgsrmicrosoftshane-kimthird-partyXbox-360Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Kim: Microsoft treating Natal launch like a new console]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/12/kim-microsoft-treating-natal-launch-like-a-new-console/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/12/kim-microsoft-treating-natal-launch-like-a-new-console/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/12/kim-microsoft-treating-natal-launch-like-a-new-console/#commentsMicrosoft's Corporate Vice President of Strategy and Business Development, Shane Kim, says that the Project Natal launch will be a large-scale endeavour, with its own sizeable launch lineup and everything. "Conceptually, the launch of Natal will be like the launch of Xbox 360," he told Kotaku during E3. "We're not just going to ship it when the hardware and software are ready." He said that Natal would require a "great launch line-up" like a new console.

This explains why we don't know the "final" name for the product yet -- if Natal really is being launched like the Xbox 360 hardware, Elijah Wood will reveal the name during an infomercial on MTV.

Gallery: Project Natal

JoystiqKim: Microsoft treating Natal launch like a new console originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Jun 2009 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftproject-natalshane-kimXbox-360Fri, 12 Jun 2009 10:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Kim: 360's lifespan 1 day longer than PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/18/kim-360s-lifespan-1-day-longer-than-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/18/kim-360s-lifespan-1-day-longer-than-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/18/kim-360s-lifespan-1-day-longer-than-ps3/#commentsFiled under:

According to Microsoft head honcho Shane Kim, the Xbox 360 is here to stay for a long, long time and promises Microsoft will not end 360 production as quickly as they did with the original Xbox.

When asked specifically when Microsoft will move from the 360 to another console, Kim claims they'll one-up Sony by making the 360's lifespan last "one day longer than the lifespan of the PlayStation 3". That's big, seeing that Sony is predicting their PS3 will last a 10 year life cycle. You heard it here first, the Xbox 360 will be around for 10 years and 1 day 355 days.

[Via GameDaily]

JoystiqKim: 360's lifespan 1 day longer than PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 18 Nov 2008 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ps3shane-kimsonyxbox-360Tue, 18 Nov 2008 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Shane Kim talks MMO stumbles]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/30/shane-kim-talks-mmo-stumbles/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/30/shane-kim-talks-mmo-stumbles/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/30/shane-kim-talks-mmo-stumbles/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Shane Kim knows (and he know we know) that Microsoft has had some problems in the MMO department, and he even takes the full blame, saying "It's a tough and challenging space that's evolving all the time - a lot of shifting sands. We haven't been able to crack the code." Listen, Kim (can we call you Kim?) we can sympathize. Lord knows we burned through enough cash on our ill-fated lifeguard MMO Endless Deep End. And though we can't help you crack the whole code, we can offer an important first step to MMO success: Release one.

We know, it's a small thing, but you'd be surprised how many miss this important step. Though we're giving him a hard time, we're betting NCsoft wishes they'd had a Shane Kim on staff when Auto Assault was being workshopped. "Everyone please leave the room," he'd say, as he loaded his syringe and slipped on rubber gloves, Auto Assault huddling in the corner. "And for the love of God, whatever you hear, do not come in."

JoystiqShane Kim talks MMO stumbles originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 Jul 2008 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>marvel-universe-onlinemgsmmoPCshane-kimXbox-360Wed, 30 Jul 2008 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Shane Kim: Microsoft feels 'bad' about MMO failings]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/29/shane-kim-feels-bad-about-microsofts-mmo-failings/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/29/shane-kim-feels-bad-about-microsofts-mmo-failings/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/29/shane-kim-feels-bad-about-microsofts-mmo-failings/#commentsFiled under:


Shane Kim, former Microsoft Game Studios guru and recently appointed VP of the Microsoft Interactive Entertainment Business, recently spoke to EDGE magazine on his company's failed attempts at massively multiplayer online games. Specifically, MS canceled Marvel Universe Online earlier this year. Way back on the original Xbox, True Fantasy Live Online, once thought to be the original Xbox's savior in Japan, was also canceled. On Microsoft's trouble with MMOs, Kim said, "I'll admit MGS has not had success in the MMO space," also noting, "We haven't been able to crack the code." Kim says that he believes MS "made the right decision" in canceling Marvel Universe Online but adds that "there's nothing to say those titles can't be successful on 360."

Part of the problem, according to Kim, is the "tension" between what developers want to create and Microsoft's need to maintain a "stable and secure environment on Xbox 360." In other words, it sounds like developers aren't too keen on the controls that Microsoft places on Xbox Live. Kim concludes that Microsoft is "getting very close" to solving the problem, but that the company has been slow to deliver an MMO experience, noting "we feel bad about that."

So do we, Shane. So do we.

JoystiqShane Kim: Microsoft feels 'bad' about MMO failings originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 Jul 2008 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>marvel-universe-onlinemicrosoft-game-studiosmmommorpgshane-kimtrue-fantasy-live-onlinexbox-360-mmoTue, 29 Jul 2008 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Screens of New Xbox Experience, Avatars, Netflix, et al]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/14/screens-of-new-xbox-experience-avatars-netflix-et-al/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/14/screens-of-new-xbox-experience-avatars-netflix-et-al/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/14/screens-of-new-xbox-experience-avatars-netflix-et-al/#commentsFiled under:


click to enlarge

Want to get a better look at the so-called "New Xbox Experience"? Microsoft shared a couple screens with us showing off the new UI, including a look at the home screen (above), Avatars, your games, the Marketplace (sorta), and Netflix. Dig in!

Gallery: New Xbox Experience

JoystiqScreens of New Xbox Experience, Avatars, Netflix, et al originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Jul 2008 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AvatarsNetflixNew-Xbox-ExperienceNXEShane-KimXbox-360Mon, 14 Jul 2008 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Details on New Xbox Experience, Avatars, Netflix, Primetime, et al]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/14/details-on-new-xbox-experience-avatars-netflix-primetime-et/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/14/details-on-new-xbox-experience-avatars-netflix-primetime-et/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/14/details-on-new-xbox-experience-avatars-netflix-primetime-et/#commentsFiled under: , ,


click to enlarge

Immediately following this morning's press conference, we got a chance to sit down with Xbox VP of Strategy and Business Development, Shane Kim, to pick his brain about the new Dashboard (called the "New Xbox Experience") and its various components, like the Netflix integration, Avatars, Party support, Primetime, and more.

Netflix
  • You must be an Xbox Live Gold subscriber as well as a Netflix subscriber to use the new Netflix service
  • Similarly, anyone you share your movie with would also need to be an XBL and Netflix subscriber
  • Like Netflix's current streaming service, all content will be SD only for now. They could offer HD streams as soon as Netflix is ready to deliver
Avatars
  • They're not looking to create a "Home-like" environment for your Avatars - that doesn't mean a third-party wouldn't be able to do that, however
  • You'll be able to keep your gamertag pics if you so choose, though they're encouraging everyone to transition to Avatars
  • Games can reward you with items for your Avatar (chainsaw, please!)
  • There will be no increase in the 100-friend cap on Xbox Live this Fall
  • There will not be any Group (think Facebook) or Clan support in this update - they're hoping the "Party" system will satisfy those requests (spoiler: it won't)

Continue reading Details on New Xbox Experience, Avatars, Netflix, Primetime, et al

JoystiqDetails on New Xbox Experience, Avatars, Netflix, Primetime, et al originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Jul 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AvatarsE3e3-2008joystiqfeaturesNetflixNew-Xbox-ExperienceShane-KimXbox-360Mon, 14 Jul 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Shane Kim in his new role: talks 'mass market' Xbox appeal]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/13/shane-kim-in-his-new-role-talks-mass-market-xbox-appeal/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/13/shane-kim-in-his-new-role-talks-mass-market-xbox-appeal/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/13/shane-kim-in-his-new-role-talks-mass-market-xbox-appeal/#commentsFiled under: ,


Following yesterday's game of musical executive chairs inside Microsoft's Interactive Entertainment Business - wherein Shane Kim ordered a brand new chair for his newly created office of corporate vice president of Strategy and Business Development, while Phil Spencer adopted Kim's old chair as the new general manager of Microsoft Game Studios - Next-Gen spoke with the two execs about their new roles. Unsurprisingly, Kim is the focus of the interview, and he offered a handful of forward-facing statements, fitting with his new strategic role.

When asked if MGS could publish another title as popular as Halo 3, Kim says the chances are "really good" explaining, "We've got the talent, we've got people who are always on the lookout for new ideas and talent, and most importantly we have the commitment and the will to create those hits." Even more telling, Kim puts that new title to use, addressing the strategy of appealing to a new mainstream market: "For us, our opportunity is much like the industry's opportunity: How do we make what we do mass market? How do we make it a mainstream form of entertainment?" Sounds like Kim was bumped upstairs to help Xbox get some of that Wii money, no?

JoystiqShane Kim in his new role: talks 'mass market' Xbox appeal originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Jun 2008 19:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>MGSMicrosoftMicrosoft-Game-StudiosPCShane-KimXbox-360Fri, 13 Jun 2008 19:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Shane Kim promoted, Phil Spencer takes on Microsoft Game Studios leadership]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/shane-kim-promoted-phil-spencer-takes-on-microsoft-game-studios/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/shane-kim-promoted-phil-spencer-takes-on-microsoft-game-studios/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/shane-kim-promoted-phil-spencer-takes-on-microsoft-game-studios/#commentsFiled under:


Alright, now that the shock of Jeff Bell's departure has worked its way out of our system, we can report that other positions in Microsoft's leadership are a' changin'. Specifically, Shane Kim has been promoted from his role as the head of Microsoft Game Studios to corporate vice president of Strategy and Business Development. Under this newly created role, Kim will "explore new growth opportunities with partners across all parts of the global Interactive Entertainment Business." Kim will concentrate on "future external relationships and partnerships" and develop "growth strategies for the entire business." While we're not sure exactly what all that means, it sounds like Kim will be dealing with third parties, possibly trying to secure exclusives (or at least making sure exclusive games on other consoles don't remain exclusive).

Taking Kim's place at the head of Microsoft Game Studios will be Phil Spencer, previously the general manager of Microsoft Game Studios Europe. Spencer will be returning to Redmond from the U.K. and will "oversee the creation of new, unannounced franchises that aim to attract new audiences" as well as well-known franchises like Halo and Gears of War.

JoystiqShane Kim promoted, Phil Spencer takes on Microsoft Game Studios leadership originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Jun 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessphil-spencershane-kimThu, 12 Jun 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Kim promoted out of Microsoft Game Studios, Spencer takes reins]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/kim-promoted-out-of-microsoft-game-studio-spencer-takes-reins/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/kim-promoted-out-of-microsoft-game-studio-spencer-takes-reins/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/kim-promoted-out-of-microsoft-game-studio-spencer-takes-reins/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Changes are afoot within Microsoft's Interactive Entertainment Business, with Microsoft Games Studios lead, Shane Kim, being promoted to the newly created role of "corporate vice president of Strategy and Business Development." According to Microsoft's press release, such a grand title is furnished on someone who will "explore new growth opportunities" and look after "future external relationships and partnerships." We imagine Mr. Kim's new role will also provide some sort of assistant trained to tell him as soon as a new Resident Evil game is announced.

Taking over Kim's role will be Phil Spencer, former general manager of Microsoft Games Studios Europe. Spencer will foster new franchises that "aim to attract new audiences" and keep an eye on all that "Gears of War" and "Fable" stuff the kids are so into these days.

Both fellows will report directly to senior vice president of Microsoft Interactive Entertainment Business, Don Mattrick. Also announced in the same press release: Jeff "Jeff Bell" Bell is bailin'.

JoystiqKim promoted out of Microsoft Game Studios, Spencer takes reins originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Jun 2008 14:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingnewsMicrosoftMicrosoft-Game-StudiosPCPhil-SpencerShane-KimXbox-360Thu, 12 Jun 2008 14:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft: PGR5 could be driven by Forza dev]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/22/microsoft-pgr5-could-be-driven-by-forza-dev/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/22/microsoft-pgr5-could-be-driven-by-forza-dev/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/22/microsoft-pgr5-could-be-driven-by-forza-dev/#commentsFiled under: ,

When Project Gotham Racing dev Bizarre Creations was scooped up by Activision last year, many 360 owners were left wondering what would become of the system's flagship racing franchise. Speaking to Kikizo, Microsoft Game Studios VP Shane Kim provided one possible (and likely) scenario: put Forza Motorsports 2 team Turn 10 behind the wheel.

Kim says that MS is eager for Turn 10 to branch out and "do more creative execution in the racing space." (Read: more than just hardcore racing sims.) Kim expressed a desire to take "a fresh creative approach" to a fifth game in the series, and, to that end, proposed imagining "a future where [Turn 10] would develop a new version of Project Gotham Racing." We humbly suggest that - should they get the gig - Turn 10 replace Kudos with actual MS points.

JoystiqMicrosoft: PGR5 could be driven by Forza dev originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 22 May 2008 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>forzamicrosoft-game-studiospgrproject-gotham-racingshane-kimturn-10Xbox-360Thu, 22 May 2008 14:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Shane Kim: First console to 100 million wins]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/21/shane-kim-first-console-to-100-million-wins/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/21/shane-kim-first-console-to-100-million-wins/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/21/shane-kim-first-console-to-100-million-wins/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Microsoft's Shane Kim now sees the end to the console war as a new magic number: first system to 100 million units sold wins, he tells Wired. That's an increase of 90 million over the 10 million mark Microsoft used to promote as the bellwether of victory. Kim believes consumers are still deciding what system to choose and that this console generation is different from the others. (Yeah, it's the first time Microsoft actually has a chance.)

Kim explains that Sony won the last couple generations, but Nintendo is clearly in first place this time around; however, he wonders if Nintendo can keep that momentum going up to 100 million (at Nintendo's rate of supply, it could take decades). He even questions it there'll be a clear-cut winner this generation. Finally, Kim assures that the Microsoft hardware guys are still working on reducing the cost of Xbox 360, in order to hit that "mass market" price point.

JoystiqShane Kim: First console to 100 million wins originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 May 2008 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>console-raceconsole-warconsoleskimPS3salesshane-kimWiiwiredXbox-360Wed, 21 May 2008 12:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Shane Kim on Marvel Universe Online MMO cancellation]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/shane-kim-on-marvel-universe-online-mmo-cancellation/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/shane-kim-on-marvel-universe-online-mmo-cancellation/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/shane-kim-on-marvel-universe-online-mmo-cancellation/#commentsFiled under: ,


During a dinner on Monday night with Microsoft's Shane Kim and Kudo Tsunoda, we got the chance to quiz the former about Microsoft Game Studios' rationale for abandoning Marvel Universe Online MMO. After years in development, the console-bound MMO died a slow and painful (-ly vague) death. The culprit: Kim tells us, "We don't have a heritage in MMOs."

Of course, previous experience isn't a necessary ingredient in success (fun fact: World of Warcraft is Blizzard's first MMO!) and after rattling off the forces Microsoft could marshal in its pursuit of bringing an MMO to the Xbox - financial resources, first-party console support, a robust online component, a proven developer, a stellar license - Kim agreed. "All those reasons are why we started the project." But MUO still failed to make it to market, recalling Microsoft's many previous attempts to successfully deliver and sustain an MMO: Asheron's Call 2, Mythica, the console-targeted True Fantasy Online, and Vanguard (read more here). At what point will the company give up, consider its lesson learned? "I would never say we're done," Kim said confidently.

So why does Kim think a company with Microsoft's significant resources continues to fail to bring an MMO to market? "It's a hits-driven business ... it's all about quality, all about hits." But he's not ready to give up yet. He says Microsoft has "learned the lesson" that it takes a lot of people to create and serve an MMO (good lesson!) and that he's reminded of how little success its had in the MMO space. In other words: MMO-icrosoft hopefuls shouldn't fret. The corporate behemoth will undoubtedly try again. How many lessons could there possible be left to learn?

JoystiqShane Kim on Marvel Universe Online MMO cancellation originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 May 2008 21:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Marvel-Ultimate-OnlineMGSMicrosoft-Games-StudiosShane-KimXbox-360Thu, 15 May 2008 21:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft's Shane Kim fine with no Xboy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/microsofts-shane-kim-fine-with-no-xboy/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/microsofts-shane-kim-fine-with-no-xboy/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/microsofts-shane-kim-fine-with-no-xboy/#commentsFiled under:


In an interview with Eurogamer, Microsoft Game Studios VP Shane Kim says he's "happy" the company never got into the handheld market, explaining the division has plenty on its plate with the Xbox 360 and Xbox Live. He goes pretty deep into the issue, almost shutting down the idea of the Xboy entirely by expressing Microsoft is happy to let Sony and Nintendo fight it out.

Kim believes mobile is more important for MS and Windows Mobile is a really "compelling opportunity" for the company. He explains that it's a way for the company to get into the arena without having to worry about creating more hardware. Microsoft has certainly learned that making good hardware isn't easy and can be hazardous.

JoystiqMicrosoft's Shane Kim fine with no Xboy originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 May 2008 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kimshane-kimXbox-360xboyThu, 15 May 2008 20:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Shane Kim talks motion control rumors and more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/shane-kim-talks-motion-control-rumors-and-more/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/shane-kim-talks-motion-control-rumors-and-more/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/shane-kim-talks-motion-control-rumors-and-more/#commentsFiled under:

At Microsoft's Spring Showcase, Eurogamer got some face time with Microsoft Game Studios VP (and PR jedi) Shane Kim. As one might expect, they took the opportunity to ask Kim about Microsoft's upcoming lineup, Sony's claimed victory in Europe, and, of course, Grand Theft Auto IV. Regarding the lineup, Kim said that 2008 will be "another landmark year" for Microsoft thanks to a range of exclusive titles like Gears of War 2, Fable 2, Banjo Kazooie: Nuts and Bolts, and others.

Perhaps the most interesting part of the interview, Kim spoke to the rumors about Microsoft's secret motion controller development. When asked directly about the rumors, Kim gave the typical no comment response, but also noted, "I do think that would be a mistake, if we just tried to come out and copy what Nintendo has done. What Nintendo has done has worked well for them, but we have to think about what our innovation aspect is going to be." Let's focus on the word "just" and the phrase "is going to be" for a moment. "Just" implies that Microsoft plans to do more than Nintendo has done with control methods, while "is going to be" implies that Microsoft is definitely up to something. Just what that is remains a mystery. Is it Lips, Newton, or something else?

Check out Eurogamer for the full interview.

JoystiqShane Kim talks motion control rumors and more originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 May 2008 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lipsmotion-controlmotion-controlsnewtonshane-kimspring-showcase-08Thu, 15 May 2008 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft's Shane Kim: 'Still enjoyment to be had' from 360 HD DVD drive]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/17/microsofts-shane-kim-still-enjoyment-to-be-had-from-360-hd-d/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/17/microsofts-shane-kim-still-enjoyment-to-be-had-from-360-hd-d/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/17/microsofts-shane-kim-still-enjoyment-to-be-had-from-360-hd-d/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Owners of the Xbox 360 HD DVD add-on shouldn't go trading them in for $50 just yet. According to Microsoft Game Studios Corporate Vice President "there is still enjoyment to be had" from that defunct piece of entertainment technology.

As part of a Q&A with GameDaily, Kim talked up the features of the outdated add-on, including a library of over 500 HD DVD movies (and growing not growing) available at clearance prices (because they're being cleared out). The drive also lets you have a movie and a game disc in the system at the same time, meaning you can switch from Halo 3 directly to watching August Rush without having to get up! Finally, the HD DVD drive adds two extra USB ports to your 360, meaning you can charge your DualShock 3s that much more easily! Yes, the HD DVD drive is truly a bargain, even without new content. Get yours today!

JoystiqMicrosoft's Shane Kim: 'Still enjoyment to be had' from 360 HD DVD drive originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 Apr 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>add-ondriveHD DVDHdDvdmicrosoftmoviesshane-KimspinusefulXbox-360Thu, 17 Apr 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Shane Kim: Banjo Kazooie 3 is a 2008 release]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/12/shane-kim-banjo-kazooie-3-is-a-2008-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/12/shane-kim-banjo-kazooie-3-is-a-2008-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/12/shane-kim-banjo-kazooie-3-is-a-2008-release/#commentsFiled under:

In a recent interview with MTV Multiplayer, Mr. loose lips himself, Shane Kim (VP of Microsoft Game Studios) talked up Microsoft's 2008 lineup and let slip some Rare news. When asked about the status of Rare's ever secretive and once thought to be canceled Banjo Kazooie 3, Kim responded saying that he was "super-excited about what they're doing with 'Banjo'" and that he thinks it will "be a big hit for us this holiday." Whoa, whoa, whoa. Let us repeat that. Banjo Kazooie 3 will be a big hit for Microsoft this holiday. This holiday! So, if Kim can be trusted, we guess we'll be seeing some fuzzy bear and bird fun sometime later this year. And that's a good thing, because another year without Banjo news would have been nearly fatal to hardcore Rare fanboys.

JoystiqShane Kim: Banjo Kazooie 3 is a 2008 release originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Feb 2008 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banjo-kazooiebanjo-kazooie-3microsoftrareshane-kimTue, 12 Feb 2008 10:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Banjo Kazooie 3 coming late 2008]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/11/banjo-kazooie-3-coming-late-2008/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/11/banjo-kazooie-3-coming-late-2008/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/11/banjo-kazooie-3-coming-late-2008/#commentsFiled under:

In addition to chatting about Alan Wake and the Marvel MMO cancellation, Microsoft Games Studio head Shane Kim revealed to MTV's Stephen Totilo at last week's DICE summit that Rare's Banjo Kazooie 3 is slated for a 2008 release. Said Kim, "I'm super-excited about what they're doing with Banjo' I think Banjo is going to be a big hit for us this holiday."

Kim also noted that Rare may go back to developing M-rated games as well as continue along the family-friendly route we've seen for the past few years. Last we heard, Rare was working on a vision cam-supported collection of party games dubbed The Fast and the Furriest for Xbox Live Arcade. With little to no information on Banjo 3, we're hoping next week's GDC will have more revelations.

JoystiqBanjo Kazooie 3 coming late 2008 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banjo-kazooiebanjo-kazooie-3BreakingNewsdiceRareshane-kimXbox-360Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:25:00 EST<![CDATA[DICE 08: Shane Kim talks Marvel MMO cancellation, Alan Wake]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/11/dice-08-shane-kim-talks-marvel-mmo-cancellation-alan-wake/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/11/dice-08-shane-kim-talks-marvel-mmo-cancellation-alan-wake/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/11/dice-08-shane-kim-talks-marvel-mmo-cancellation-alan-wake/#commentsFiled under:


Shane Kim has been getting a lot of coverage at this year's DICE summit, and it's not just because he's got a thousand-watt smile that lights up a room. Microsoft has been pretty cagey about 2008 so far, and it seems like, thanks to Kim's hinting, the first details of a schedule for the year are just starting to solidify. If you want to know where your favorite upcoming title stands, look no further than MTV's comprehensive interview with Kim on all of the company's big 08/09 guns.

Besides hearing about how great Fable 2 is going to be (answer: very) we were especially intrigued by Kim's reluctance to pin down Alan Wake as a 2008 title. Also, though we were disappointed by the cancellation of the Marvel MMO, we have to admit we agree with the reasoning: In short, Microsoft noticed the dozens of subscription-based MMO carcasses that littered the road and decided that, perhaps, advancement was unwise. We heartily concur.

JoystiqDICE 08: Shane Kim talks Marvel MMO cancellation, Alan Wake originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Feb 2008 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dicedice-08fable2marvel-universe-onlineshane-kimXbox-360Mon, 11 Feb 2008 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[DICE 08: Microsoft owns Crackdown IP, sequel an 'option']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/08/dice-08-microsoft-owns-crackdown-ip-sequel-an-option/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/08/dice-08-microsoft-owns-crackdown-ip-sequel-an-option/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/08/dice-08-microsoft-owns-crackdown-ip-sequel-an-option/#commentsFiled under:

crackdown
Despite the dynamic pairing of good sales and majority acclaim for Crackdown, Shane Kim grew cagey when questioned about the status of a sequel at DICE, during an interview with Game|Life. "I don't really want to talk about that discussion," said Kim when asked to comment on reports that Realtime Worlds would not develop a sequel to last year's successful super-cop sandbox shooter. What Kim did clarify is that Microsoft owns the Crackdown IP and is free to pursue development of a sequel with a new studio. "I think that customers would like to see more in that space," Kim vaguely noted, "So that's an option for us."

JoystiqDICE 08: Microsoft owns Crackdown IP, sequel an 'option' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Feb 2008 15:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Actioncrackdowndicedice-08Microsoftrealtime-worldsRiot-ActSandboxshane-kimXbox-360Fri, 08 Feb 2008 15:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft: Crackdown 2 still a possibility]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/08/microsoft-crackdown-2-still-a-possibility/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/08/microsoft-crackdown-2-still-a-possibility/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/08/microsoft-crackdown-2-still-a-possibility/#commentsFiled under: ,


Speaking to Wired, Microsoft Game Studios VP Shane Kim mentioned the possibility of a sequel to Crackdown. While Real Time Worlds -- creators of Crackdown -- stated last year that a sequel wasn't in the works (they're focusing on other projects), it seems Kim is still open to the idea. It seems that the folks at the Microsoft gang still "love" Crackdown, as Kim says, "We consider that a pretty successful title for us, high-quality, I think that customers would like to see more in that space. So that's an option for us." What remains unknown is whether Microsoft intends to ask Real Time Worlds to create the sequel or if the project will be given to a different developer. While the prospect of Crackdown 2 is definitely music to our ears, we can only hope the reins wind up in the right hands. The remainder of Kim's Wired interview comes out soon. Here's hoping we can learn more.

JoystiqMicrosoft: Crackdown 2 still a possibility originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Feb 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Actioncrackdowncrackdown-2mgsmicrosoft-game-studiosreal-time-worldsRealtime-WorldsRiot-ActSandboxshane-kimFri, 08 Feb 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[DICE 08: Shane Kim Q&A from AAA to Xboy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/08/dice-08-shane-kim-qanda-from-aaa-to-xboy/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/08/dice-08-shane-kim-qanda-from-aaa-to-xboy/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/08/dice-08-shane-kim-qanda-from-aaa-to-xboy/#commentsFiled under: ,

In a lengthy and comprehensive Q&A conducted by New York Time's games journo Seth Schiesel with Microsoft Game Studios' veep Shane Kim at the D.I.C.E. Summit in Las Vegas, the two go a couple rounds hitting on everything from big AAA titles like Halo, to ActiBlizzion, to the departure of the Bs (Bungie, Bizarre, BioWare), all the way over to the long-rumored (and so far totally fictitious) Xboy.

Gamasutra was there to detail all the good bits in a lengthy writeup that we'd be doing you a total disservice by trying to condense. Check it: digital downloads, Vista-only PC games, console war winners, third-party sales, mass-market appeal, Grand Theft Auto IV, console lifespan, PS3 growth in Europe ...

... phew. See? Comprehensive.

JoystiqDICE 08: Shane Kim Q&A from AAA to Xboy originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Feb 2008 14:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DICEDICE-08Microsoft-Game-StudiosShane-KimXbox-360XboyFri, 08 Feb 2008 14:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Shane Kim on lost studios, handhelds and the console war]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/08/shane-kim-on-lost-studios-handhelds-and-the-console-war/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/08/shane-kim-on-lost-studios-handhelds-and-the-console-war/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/08/shane-kim-on-lost-studios-handhelds-and-the-console-war/#commentsFiled under:

At the ongoing D.I.C.E. summit in Las Vegas, Nevada, Microsoft Game Studios corporate VP Shane Kim was bombarded with every tough question you could think of by New York Times reporter Seth Scheisel. Covering a wide range of topics from Xbox to Windows, Kim kept his head on for the most part while toting the company line.

"People have speculated that we were stifling their creative freedom," Kim told Scheisel, when asked about Bungie's public split from Microsoft in 2007, "but I can tell you there's no studio that had more freedom at Microsoft Game Studios than Bungie." Kim also didn't rule out the possibility of a Microsoft branded portable gaming device, saying, "never say never."

With a year head start on their competition, one of the strongest software attachment ratios a console has ever seen and critical and commercial successes like Halo 3 and Gears of War under their belt, does Microsoft consider the console war to be won? "By no means does anyone at Microsoft think the race is over," replied Kim. "You have very powerful and formidable contenders in Nintendo and Sony ... to underestimate them and to count them out would be a foolish mistake." Read the full interview for Kim's views on Windows Vista gaming, intellectual properties and more.

JoystiqShane Kim on lost studios, handhelds and the console war originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Feb 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>console-wardice-2008dice-summitinterviewmicrosoft-game-studiosshane-kimFri, 08 Feb 2008 13:30:00 EST