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[Square Enix trademarks Mindjack and Mindhack in Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/17/square-enix-trademarks-mindjack-and-mindhack-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/17/square-enix-trademarks-mindjack-and-mindhack-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/17/square-enix-trademarks-mindjack-and-mindhack-in-europe/#comments Square Enix appears to be covering its bases related to games with Mind as a prefix. As Siliconera notes, the company previously trademarked Mindhack in Europe and now has done the same for Mindjack in the region. Reportedly the major difference between the two trademarks is that Mindjack specifically mentions use in online video games.

We're following up with Square Enix, but with E3 so close now, the company is probably stuffing its corporate press release piñata for the event. Perhaps the Mind- games will be stuffed in there with Final Fantasy: The 4 Heroes of Light details.

JoystiqSquare Enix trademarks Mindjack and Mindhack in Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 May 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mindhackmindjacksiliconerasquare-enixtrademarkMon, 17 May 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EU Harmony of Despair trademark hints at new Castlevania]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/17/eu-harmony-of-despair-trademark-suggests-new-castlevania/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/17/eu-harmony-of-despair-trademark-suggests-new-castlevania/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/17/eu-harmony-of-despair-trademark-suggests-new-castlevania/#comments Siliconera dug up a European trademark filed by Konami for something called "Harmony of Despair," and they correctly point out that it certainly sounds like another Castlevania game. Since the classic Symphony of the Night, Castlevania games are often subtitled with music-themed "X of X" titles, including Lament of Innocence and Aria of Sorrow, and the upcoming Castlevania: Lords of Shadow.

There's no indication in the trademark exactly what the game will be (it's just marked as "video game software" and related services), and while Dawn of Sorrow, the series' first DS title, gave an acronymic hint to the system, obviously Harmony of Despair doesn't. Wait -- "H.D."? It must be for the rumored iPhone HD releasing later this year! Mystery solved!

JoystiqEU Harmony of Despair trademark hints at new Castlevania originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 17 Apr 2010 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>castlevaniacastlevania-harmony-of-despairdseuharmony-of-despairkonamirumorsiliconeratrademarkSat, 17 Apr 2010 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Q Games working on '3D Space Tank' for Nintendo]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/12/q-games-working-on-3d-space-tank-for-nintendo/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/12/q-games-working-on-3d-space-tank-for-nintendo/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/12/q-games-working-on-3d-space-tank-for-nintendo/#comments Australia's OFLC has rated 3D Space Tank, which is apparently a new title for Nintendo by PixelJunk studio Q Games. Siliconera found the listing, but, beyond a generic name (which has never stopped the studio before), details are scarce. The studio has been producing games for DSiWare, but there's no clear indication at this time what platform this latest game is for.

We've contacted Q Games for any details that it would like to share, hopefully the answer will be crisp and clear, not just a bunch of pixel junk.

Update: Q Games is deferring to Nintendo.

JoystiqQ Games working on '3D Space Tank' for Nintendo originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Jan 2010 20:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d-space-tankdsiwareoflcq-gamessiliconerawiiwareTue, 12 Jan 2010 20:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Sega trademarks 'Let's Go Island'; possible 'Let's Go Jungle' sequel or port]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/28/sega-trademarks-lets-go-island-possible-lets-go-jungle-se/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/28/sega-trademarks-lets-go-island-possible-lets-go-jungle-se/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/28/sega-trademarks-lets-go-island-possible-lets-go-jungle-se/#comments On another trademark walkabout, Siliconera dug up evidence of Let's Go Island: Lost on the Island of Tropics and its European logo. The paperwork implies that Sega's arcade shooter, Let's Go Jungle: Lost on the Island of Spice, is apparently getting a sequel or console port -- if the trademark leads to action.

The arcade version of Let's Go Jungle has two players sitting in Jeep-looking booth with mounted light guns. It's not a stretch to imagine an on-rails shooter for the Wii, as the console goes with those like peanut butter matched with slightly inaccurate chocolate. Check out a video of Let's Go Jungle -- and its amazing voice work -- after the break.

Continue reading Sega trademarks 'Let's Go Island'; possible 'Let's Go Jungle' sequel or port

JoystiqSega trademarks 'Let's Go Island'; possible 'Let's Go Jungle' sequel or port originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Dec 2009 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lets-go-islandlets-go-island-lost-on-the-island-of-tropicslets-go-junglelets-go-jungle-lost-on-the-island-of-spicesegasiliconeratrademarkMon, 28 Dec 2009 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Bon Jovi wants you to live on prayer, buy Final Fantasy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/13/bon-jovi-wants-you-to-live-on-prayer-buy-final-fantasy/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/13/bon-jovi-wants-you-to-live-on-prayer-buy-final-fantasy/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/13/bon-jovi-wants-you-to-live-on-prayer-buy-final-fantasy/#comments Seeing as no fewer than three of Bon Jovi's four members are sporting bad cases of Final Fantasy hair, it makes perfect sense that Square would tap the band to promote Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: The Crystal Bearers in Japan.

According to Siliconera, ads for the game will begin airing later this month featuring the song "We Weren't Born to Follow." If you recognize the song, it's likely because it made headlines as Bon Jovi's record-setting 100th title that sounds like a douchey high school's senior class motto.

JoystiqBon Jovi wants you to live on prayer, buy Final Fantasy originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Oct 2009 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bon-jovifinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-crystal-chroniclesfinal-fantasy-crystal-chronicles-the-crystal-bearersNintendosiliconerasquare-enixWiiTue, 13 Oct 2009 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Siliconera breaks down PSP game prices: PSN vs. Amazon]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/02/siliconera-breaks-down-psp-game-prices-psn-vs-amazon/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/02/siliconera-breaks-down-psp-game-prices-psn-vs-amazon/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/02/siliconera-breaks-down-psp-game-prices-psn-vs-amazon/#comments Siliconera has gone through the effort of taking all the PlayStation Store's digitally distributed PSP game prices and comparing them to the current cost for a UMD hard copy through Amazon. The list is eye-opening, with the prices shifting -- sometimes dramatically -- between which retail outlet offers the better price. It should be noted that third-party retailers selling through Amazon, which are used for some of the prices in the list, can seriously skew results (especially with the shipping cost added). Sony had previously mentioned it seeks to maintain "pricing parity" between its digital and boxed titles.

Go over to Siliconera to check out the full list. Oh, and if you'd like to see comparisons to retailers other than Amazon, why not offer your research services to them.

JoystiqSiliconera breaks down PSP game prices: PSN vs. Amazon originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Oct 2009 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>psnpsn-storepsppsp-3000psp-gosiliconeraFri, 02 Oct 2009 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Silicon Valley company creating AO-only 'SexBox' console]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/05/silicon-valley-company-creating-ao-only-sexbox-console/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/05/silicon-valley-company-creating-ao-only-sexbox-console/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/05/silicon-valley-company-creating-ao-only-sexbox-console/#comments
It's been a while since we'd last heard the term "SexBox." Too long, in fact. Thankfully, Silicon Xtal Corporation is bringing it back, recently registering a trademark for the word first brought up surrounding the great Mass Effect sex debacle of 2008. According to the filing, SXC intends on making a video game system "which plays interactive Adult Only rated (AO) video game software titles."

Considering only around 20 AO-rated titles even exist and no major game publisher currently publishes them, we were left wondering what exactly the business model here will be -- that is, until we read the rest of the description. In addition to specializing in AO games, the SexBox will also give users access to "AO content and entertainment in all other digital forms," which in this case means a ton of delivery methods. "Audio, video, HDTV, DVD, online, gaming, social networking, webcams, video on-demand, downloading, movie rentals, purchases ..." and the list goes on. Finally, somewhere to go for all the mature content we can get! Unfortunately, it appears that someone beat them to it.

[Via Siliconera]

JoystiqSilicon Valley company creating AO-only 'SexBox' console originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 05 Sep 2009 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adult-contentadult-onlypornsexboxsilicon-xtal-corporationsiliconerasxctrademarkusptoSat, 05 Sep 2009 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Producer: Wesker not returning to Resident Evil (yeah, right)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/25/producer-wesker-not-returning-yeah-right/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/25/producer-wesker-not-returning-yeah-right/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/25/producer-wesker-not-returning-yeah-right/#comments
It's going to be difficult to be completely spoiler-free for this one, so fair warning. During a panel at Comic-Con, Resident Evil 5 producer Masachika Kawata was asked if Albert Wesker would return in a future Resident Evil title, considering Resident Evil 5 leaves you believing he's gone. According to SIliconera, Kawata says Wesker's days in Resident Evil are over.

"Even if you want Albert Wesker to come back there is no chance of that happening," Kawata told the audience. Of course, Kawata forgets that Wesker will be seen in the upcoming Resident Evil: The Darkside Chronicles, which takes place in Raccoon City during Resident Evil 2's storyline. As for Wesker going the way of the Dodo, we'll believe that when we see it. Or don't see him, we should say.

JoystiqProducer: Wesker not returning to Resident Evil (yeah, right) originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 25 Jul 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>albert-weskerMasachika-KawataMicrosoftresident-evil-5resident-evil-6sdcc-2009siliconeraweskerXbox-360Sat, 25 Jul 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Way of the Samurai 2 Portable announced and dated for Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/08/way-of-the-samurai-2-portable-announced-and-dated-for-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/08/way-of-the-samurai-2-portable-announced-and-dated-for-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/08/way-of-the-samurai-2-portable-announced-and-dated-for-japan/#comments
Originally released on PlayStation 2 back in May of 2004, Way of the Samurai 2 hit American shores by way of Japanese megapublisher Capcom. After bringing the first in the series to Japanese PSPs last year, the game's developer, Spike, recently announced in Famitsu that it'll be porting the sequel to the handheld.

Unfortunately, while the PSP is region-free, we doubt it'll come with an English language choice for those of you interested in living out your dreams of roaming the Japanese countryside, fighting injustice at every turn. And though we asked Capcom for comment on an American release, considering the first one never arrived, we're not expecting much. Siliconera says the game releases in Japan on September 3 for around $40 (plus airfare).

[Via Siliconera]

JoystiqWay of the Samurai 2 Portable announced and dated for Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Jul 2009 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomfamitsujapansiliconeraspikeway-of-the-samuraiway-of-the-samurai-2Wed, 08 Jul 2009 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony patents more motion tech, uses everyday objects]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/03/sony-patents-more-motion-tech-uses-everyday-objects/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/03/sony-patents-more-motion-tech-uses-everyday-objects/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/03/sony-patents-more-motion-tech-uses-everyday-objects/#comments
We'd be lying if we didn't say we're a bit worried about the future of gaming controllers. Between the Nintendo's MotionPlus, Microsoft's Project Natal and Sony's ... erm ... motion thing, our precious game pads get more and more antique looking every day. And according to a recent patent filed by Sony that Siliconera found, our precious controllers have one more thing to fear: everyday objects.

That's right, friends -- in the future, we could be using our real-life keys to open doors, our swords to slice up fools, and our guns (not outside of the US) to shoot up the screen "accidentally." The patent shows off a PlayStation Eye-based system that can recognize 3D objects and use them in-game based on various actions taken by the player -- something Microsoft claims it's Natal is also capable of doing. Various household items will be affected in different ways, the example given being a U-shaped object that, when turned upwards, becomes a sword, versus a U-shaped block when facing downwards (think Halo's Covenant Energy Sword). Apparently the system is able to scan a whole mess of objects and store them in a databank for future use. Like so much future tech we've seen recently, we're taking this one with a full truckload of salt until we get some face time.

JoystiqSony patents more motion tech, uses everyday objects originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Jul 2009 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>halomotion-controlmotionpluspatentplaystation-eyeproject-natalsiliconerasonyFri, 03 Jul 2009 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Fitness Hero! Workout Hero! (Not from Activision, though!)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/01/fitness-hero-workout-hero-not-from-activision-though/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/01/fitness-hero-workout-hero-not-from-activision-though/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/01/fitness-hero-workout-hero-not-from-activision-though/#comments
Trademarks for both Fitness Hero and Workout Hero have been registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office. Siliconera, which spends its summer afternoons looking up trademarks, found the listings aren't by Activision, but by VPT Technologies, an exergaming developer.

We said it before -- when Gearbox Software registered War Hero -- doesn't Activision own the word "hero" in relation to any video game by this point? We know Activision is litigious -- even when it's wrong. Some attorney on retainer should be all over this.

JoystiqFitness Hero! Workout Hero! (Not from Activision, though!) originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fitness-herosiliconeraworkout-heroWed, 01 Jul 2009 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New Korean PSP bundles inbound, ads include giant system and 'hotness']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/30/new-korean-psp-bundles-inbound-ads-include-giant-system-and-ho/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/30/new-korean-psp-bundles-inbound-ads-include-giant-system-and-ho/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/30/new-korean-psp-bundles-inbound-ads-include-giant-system-and-ho/#comments
Three new PSP bundles are bound for Korea, two containing the popular fighting title, Tekken 5: Dark Resurrection. The Tekken bundle is available in with either a white or black system along with the game and a 4GB memory stick. The third bundle, called the DMB Pack, includes a South Korea-specific (Read: Not import friendly) TV tuner and 32MB memory stick and the unit. Wait, a 32MB memory stick? Is that still a thing? Each bundle is priced at 278,000₩ ($218 US).

Oh, and as you would have guessed by the headline of this story, Sony is using a giant PSP with a teaspoon of sexuality to promote the bundles. Makes sense to us!

Gallery: PSP Bundle Ads (Korea)

JoystiqNew Korean PSP bundles inbound, ads include giant system and 'hotness' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 30 Jun 2009 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingbundlekoreapsp-bundlesexualitysiliconeraTue, 30 Jun 2009 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: The Last Remnant sold better in the West, poorly in general]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/20/report-the-last-remnant-sold-better-in-the-west-poorly-in-general/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/20/report-the-last-remnant-sold-better-in-the-west-poorly-in-general/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/20/report-the-last-remnant-sold-better-in-the-west-poorly-in-general/#comments
It seems as though Square Enix's attempt to reach out to Western gamers with The Last Remnant has done little in the way of olive branch extension, with the title selling 220,000 units since its release last year. According to Siliconera (and corroborated with info from VGChartz.com), the game sold even worse in Japan, where 360 saturation is notably low, moving only 160,000 units, making the game a relative success with Western audiences.

That being said, combined worldwide sales for the game totaled just over half of a million units, with 560,000 selling altogether (more than 400k of which were sold in North America and Europe). Hopefully the acquisition of Eidos will do more for the Japanese company in the west than The Last Remnant did.

JoystiqReport: The Last Remnant sold better in the West, poorly in general originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 May 2009 14:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesseconomyeidosMicrosoftsiliconerasquare-enixthe-last-remnantwestern-developmentXbox-360Wed, 20 May 2009 14:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix's 'Vanguard Storm' is more Crystal Defenders, but not tower defense]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/13/square-enixs-vanguard-storm-is-more-crystal-defenders-but-no/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/13/square-enixs-vanguard-storm-is-more-crystal-defenders-but-no/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/13/square-enixs-vanguard-storm-is-more-crystal-defenders-but-no/#comments
It turns out that the Square Enix Vanguard Storm trademark from last month was merely the subtitle for another Crystal Defenders game, available now for $5 on iPhone and iPod Touch (there's a "lite" version to demo). Siliconera notes that Vanguard isn't a tower defense game, but a "monster blocking game," as evidenced by the video after the break.

Instead of a tower defense game where enemies are on a path, Vanguard has enemies moving from left to right. The player is charged with adding the proper character classes to block the monstrous onslaught. No console releases of the game have been announced, but other Crystal Defenders titles started on mobile and moved to home consoles.

Continue reading Square Enix's 'Vanguard Storm' is more Crystal Defenders, but not tower defense

JoystiqSquare Enix's 'Vanguard Storm' is more Crystal Defenders, but not tower defense originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 May 2009 12:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Applecrystal-defendersiPodsiliconerasquare-enixvanguard-stormWed, 13 May 2009 12:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo's next step may be into the playpen]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/20/nintendos-next-step-may-be-into-the-playpen/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/20/nintendos-next-step-may-be-into-the-playpen/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/20/nintendos-next-step-may-be-into-the-playpen/#comments
A patent filed with the US Patent and Trademark Office today tells the tale of an edutainment-laden future for Nintendo, reports Siliconera. According to the patent, the console maker's next property (properties?) may feature a mess of different learning tools aimed at young children, defined in the patent as, "toddlers and pre-kindergartners, and/or people with disabilities." The various ideas presented within the patent range from matching animal sounds with animal pictures to lessons in daily chores to building your first laser gun. Alright -- fine -- we made up that last one.

Littered throughout the images included with the patent are a couple of familiar Nintendo characters (Mario and Pikachu), though, according to Siliconera, the report specifically mentions "television and/or licensed cartoon characters like Pikachu, Dora the Explorer, and Bob the Builder."

Though this patent may have been filed, we want to remind you that none of these plans are by any means final and for all anyone knows, could be nothing more than what they are now -- ideas. One thing is for sure, no matter what happens, we all now know that Nintendo believes children to wear totally badass future shoes. Check out the gallery below for an extensive visual tour of what may very well be the next step Nintendo takes.

Gallery: Nintendo Edutainment Patent

JoystiqNintendo's next step may be into the playpen originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Mar 2009 19:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bob-the-builderdora-the-exploreredutainmentmarioNintendopatentpikachusiliconeraWiiFri, 20 Mar 2009 19:10:00 EST<![CDATA[PixelJunk packed 3-in-1 trunk for Asia]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/03/pixeljunk-packed-3-in-1-trunk-for-asia/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/03/pixeljunk-packed-3-in-1-trunk-for-asia/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/03/pixeljunk-packed-3-in-1-trunk-for-asia/#comments
The PSN PixelJunk series will be bundled in the PixelJunk 3in1 Pack for the Asian market, reports Siliconera. The bundle will include Racers, Monsters and Eden. All games have English or Japanese language options, but there's no word yet if the disc includes the Monsters expansion or the Eden soundtrack.

Although we've yet to hear back from Sony Europe, Sony America let us know that it has no "official announcements at this time about the PixelJunk series." If the region didn't deserve a hard copy for Siren: Blood Curse's 9 gigglebytes, what chance does PixelJunk have? Ending on a good note: at least PS3 games aren't region locked.

[Update: Q Games president Dylan Cuthbert confirmed to Joystiq that this PixelJunk pack is Asia-only. "Right now, this special bundle is for Asia only."]

JoystiqPixelJunk packed 3-in-1 trunk for Asia originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Mar 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>pixeljunkpixeljunk-edenpixeljunk-monsterspixeljunk-monsters-encorepixeljunk-racerssiliconeraTue, 03 Mar 2009 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Echochrome hitting North American PS3s this Spring]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/21/echochrome-hitting-north-american-ps3s-this-spring/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/21/echochrome-hitting-north-american-ps3s-this-spring/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/21/echochrome-hitting-north-american-ps3s-this-spring/#commentsFiled under:


Originally, Siliconera had reported that the upcoming perplexing puzzle game will be coming to North America sometime this Summer. Now, it seems, the real release date for the downloadable title will be sometime this Spring. Only the PS3 version of the game is guaranteed outside of Japan, however, as the PSP version's fate is still very much undetermined. Japan's PSP version of Echochrome will feature extra levels and features that the PS3 version will not, so we'd be very disappointed not to see these reach the West in some form or another.

When asked whether the extra content could be released for the PS3 version as DLC the Sony PR rep responded that the feature list for the PS3 version had not been announced yet. With Spring swiftly approaching, we'd hope that an announcement regarding the game's features will be coming soon. We're far more likely to pay for the game if it's more than just a demo for a non-existant PSP game.

JoystiqEchochrome hitting North American PS3s this Spring originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 21 Feb 2008 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>echochromesiliconeraThu, 21 Feb 2008 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii's most popular VC games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/09/wiis-most-popular-vc-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/09/wiis-most-popular-vc-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/09/wiis-most-popular-vc-games/#commentsFiled under: ,


Siliconera's Spencer Yip put together the handy-dandy spreadsheet you see above featuring the most popular Wii Virtual Console games, available for review now following the recent Wii update. The list shows Japan on the left and the US on the right. Nobody seems to know how the popularity of these games is determined, after Siliconera made their list, it changed for Wii Fanboy, then again when we checked. Hopefully the system will become clearer in time.

Look at all that Mario in the Top 10, with a heavy dose of Link for the US. This will certainly be an interesting chart to watch as more games become available. Maybe it will finally spur Xbox Live Arcade to get one. It would be interesting to know what's popular on XBLA, at least we know it wouldn't be Mario all the way down.

[Via Wii Fanboy]

JoystiqWii's most popular VC games originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Aug 2007 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chartpopularsiliconeravcvirtual consoleWiiThu, 09 Aug 2007 11:01:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Fanboy travels Around the Interweb to whine about hard games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/22/ds-fanboy-travels-around-the-interweb-to-whine-about-hard-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/22/ds-fanboy-travels-around-the-interweb-to-whine-about-hard-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/22/ds-fanboy-travels-around-the-interweb-to-whine-about-hard-games/#commentsFiled under:


Siliconera has started doing these great roundtables called "From Around the Interweb" in which various game writers opine on a topic. The last one was about the DS Style series-- check it out for some interesting discussion on non-games!

This week, Spencer was kind enough to invite me along for a discussion of hard games. This week's panel included Spencer, RawMeatCowboy from GoNintendo, CheapyD from CheapAssGamer, PSP Fanboy's Andrew Yoon (who has made mysterious appearances here!), and, for some reason, me! We were all able to reach a consensus on the divisive issue of whether or not hard games were, in fact, hard. I had a great time and I was honored to be in such illustrious company!

JoystiqDS Fanboy travels Around the Interweb to whine about hard games originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Jun 2007 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsds liteDsLitehardhard gamesHardGamesinterwebmetanintendonintendo dsNintendoDspanelroundtablesiliconeraFri, 22 Jun 2007 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Spectral Vs Generations: when strategy characters brawl]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/20/spectral-vs-generations-when-strategy-characters-brawl/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/20/spectral-vs-generations-when-strategy-characters-brawl/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/20/spectral-vs-generations-when-strategy-characters-brawl/#commentsFiled under: ,

NIS America has released several Idea Factory games so far, including Generations of Chaos and Spectral Souls. But one game they haven't released on PSP is the fighting game Spectral versus Generation, which features characters from both series duking it out. I certainly can't say I ever predicted seeing strategy RPG characters throw down in a 2D fighter, but here it is. Ironically, Midas Interactive is bringing this unique crossover title to European stores.

Wait, what's so ironic? Previous titles in the Generations of Chaos and Spectral Souls series have never come to Europe. This makes it quite likely that the average European gamer won't even be aware of any of the characters involved. Don't worry Idea Factory fans! Since your PSP can play games from any region, you just need to find an importer, and you're good to go.

[Via Siliconera]

JoystiqSpectral Vs Generations: when strategy characters brawl originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Apr 2007 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europegenerations of chaosGenerationsOfChaosmidas interactiveMidasInteractivenisnis americaNisAmericasiliconeraspectral soulsSpectralSoulsFri, 20 Apr 2007 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[News report: Folding@home in action]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/19/news-report-folding-home-in-action/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/19/news-report-folding-home-in-action/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/19/news-report-folding-home-in-action/#commentsFiled under:

While the rest of the world waits, Japanese PS3 owners have been able to enjoy the most significant update to the PS3 so far. Firmware version 1.6 includes background downloading, the ability to zoom in the web browser, and Folding@home, an application that allows your PS3 to aid researchers in their search for cures to many diseases. Siliconera has found a news report that (shock) paints the PS3 in a very positive light.

Check out the video, embedded above. Will you be running the Folding@home application when it arrives to your PS3 this Friday?

JoystiqNews report: Folding@home in action originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Mar 2007 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>siliconeraMon, 19 Mar 2007 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[The Simpsons presents Death Kill City II]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/05/the-simpsons-presents-death-kill-city-ii/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/05/the-simpsons-presents-death-kill-city-ii/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/05/the-simpsons-presents-death-kill-city-ii/#commentsFiled under: ,


Maybe the writers of The Simpsons are PSP fanboys like us, angered by the impending release of the PS2 version of Grand Theft Auto: Vice City Stories. The once-PSP exclusive is moving to the home console, and The Simpsons takes a shot at it through the parody game Death Kill City II: Death Kill Stories. As Siliconera reports, the goal of the game seems quite fun: "You have destroyed all human life on Earth. Level one complete."

JoystiqThe Simpsons presents Death Kill City II originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Mar 2007 22:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>death kill citydeath kill storiesDeathKillCityDeathKillStoriesgrand theft autoGrandTheftAutogtasiliconerasimpsonsthe simpsonsTheSimpsonsvice city storiesViceCityStoriesMon, 05 Mar 2007 22:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Memorable Smackdown! fantasy fights]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/01/memorable-smackdown-fantasy-fights/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/01/memorable-smackdown-fantasy-fights/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/01/memorable-smackdown-fantasy-fights/#commentsFiled under: ,

Ronald McDonald versus Hamburglar.
Strider versus Spider-Man.
Jill Valentine versus Nemesis.
Jason versus Freddy.

These dream fights have been created in WWE Smackdown's extensive character creation mode, and can be seen in their full glory at Siliconera. For those of you with the game, have you been able to create any truly special characters?

JoystiqMemorable Smackdown! fantasy fights originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 01 Feb 2007 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>freddyhamburglarjasonjill valentineJillValentinemcdonaldnemesisronald mcdonaldRonaldMcdonaldsiliconerasmackdownspider manSpiderManstriderwweThu, 01 Feb 2007 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Konami's retro shooter collections, in video]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/30/konamis-retro-shooter-collections-in-video/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/30/konamis-retro-shooter-collections-in-video/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/30/konamis-retro-shooter-collections-in-video/#commentsFiled under: ,

Konami recently released three different retro shooter collections in Japan: Parodius, Twinbee, and Salamander. Although Konami eventually released Gradius Collection in the States, it seems highly unlikely that these hardcore shooters will leave the land of the rising sun.

Because the PSP can play games from any region, importers may want to seriously consider getting these games. Siliconera has some detailed videos of the three games in action. Some of the footage is certainly bizarre, but that's part of Konami's unique charm. The videos are provided, after the cut.

Continue reading Konami's retro shooter collections, in video

JoystiqKonami's retro shooter collections, in video originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 30 Jan 2007 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>parodiussalamandersiliconeratwinbeevideoTue, 30 Jan 2007 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Puzzle Quest producer spills the beans]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/02/puzzle-quest-producer-spills-the-beans/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/02/puzzle-quest-producer-spills-the-beans/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/02/puzzle-quest-producer-spills-the-beans/#commentsFiled under:

Andy Pan, producer on the upcoming puzzler Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords, recently spoke about the game with Siliconera. The game has caused many to raise an eyebrow in question of its goal to combine puzzle and RPG gameplay into the perfect hybrid. Andy explains some of the battle pieces on the board:

"The battle system takes place on a puzzle board in an 8 x 8 grid. There are 8 elements on the puzzle board - 4 mana gems (fire, water, air, earth) as well as experience (the purple icons) gold (gold coins) and skulls and finally, the wildcard."

The game is turn-based, with the goal being to completely wipe your opponent's hit points before they do the same to you. Obviously, before you can deal out the damage, you need to gather the appropriate mana pieces to cast spells. Or, you can match 3 skulls, which will also do damage to your opponent.

JoystiqPuzzle Quest producer spills the beans originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Jan 2007 10:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsdslitenintendonintendodsnintendodslitepuzzlequestsiliconerawarlordsTue, 02 Jan 2007 10:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Gurumin to feature Japanese VA, and more details revealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/18/gurumin-to-feature-japanese-va-and-more-details-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/18/gurumin-to-feature-japanese-va-and-more-details-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/18/gurumin-to-feature-japanese-va-and-more-details-revealed/#commentsFiled under: ,


"We looked up "no-brainer" in the dictionary and there was a picture of Gurumin," said Mastiff in an interview with Siliconera. The publisher reveals a few interesting tidbits, like having the original Japanese voice acting available as a secret easter egg. Way cool---just in case the English VA doesn't work out so well. Mastiff also points out features that are available in the PSP version of the game that can't be found on the original PC version of the game:

"Gurumin on the PSP not only features tons of extra content that wasn't available on the PC, like new costumes and a boss rush mode, but the controls have been polished for the PSP version, and the game delivers an action-RPG experience that simply can't be had anywhere else on the platform."

Check out the rest of Siliconera's interview with Mastiff, and voice actor, Amber Hood.

JoystiqGurumin to feature Japanese VA, and more details revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 18 Nov 2006 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amber hoodAmberHoodguruminmastiffsiliconeravavoice actingVoiceActingSat, 18 Nov 2006 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Every Extend Extra to feature new song in US]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/09/every-extend-extra-to-feature-new-song-in-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/09/every-extend-extra-to-feature-new-song-in-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/09/every-extend-extra-to-feature-new-song-in-us/#commentsFiled under: ,


Siliconera has just secured an interview with Every Extend Extra's producer, Linda Jo. For the most part, it repeats many details we already know (such as how music and timing functions into the game). However, Linda let slip a few interesting tidbits. Firstly, she confirms that the game is a PSP-exclusive, and won't receive a Lumines-like PS2 port (for now at least). She also reveals that "one of the bonus drives in the game includes an original music track that is exclusive to the version published by BVG."

Considering Buena Vista Games is owned by Disney, maybe we'll get some hardcore Mickey Mouse music in our game. That'd be crunk. The game hits stores in November.

JoystiqEvery Extend Extra to feature new song in US originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Oct 2006 23:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buena vistaBuenaVistabvgevery extendevery extend extraEveryExtendEveryExtendExtralinda joLindaJosiliconeraMon, 09 Oct 2006 23:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Another story about Loco Roco... and Japanese models]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/08/29/another-story-about-loco-roco-and-japanese-models/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/08/29/another-story-about-loco-roco-and-japanese-models/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/08/29/another-story-about-loco-roco-and-japanese-models/#commentsFiled under: ,

Perverted Japanese PSP Fanboy's Andrew Yoon consistently writes news stories about Loco Roco and Japanese models. In his ideal version of paradise, those two would somehow be combined. That day... has come! Firstly, you can learn the difference between all the characters of Loco Roco by checking out Siliconera. See the cute MuiMui, the racially insensitive Mojya, and more!

Next, check out how Sony's trying to make the Japanese people like Loco Roco a bit more than they do now: they'll use actress Ryoko Shinohara to pose with the game and star in new commercials. Oh my, it appears that Andrew's died and gone to heaven. Loco Roco comes to the US in just one week.

[First half via Siliconera, second half via PSP-Vault]

JoystiqAnother story about Loco Roco... and Japanese models originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 Aug 2006 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>characterscommercialgirlsjapaneseloco rocoLocoRocomodelmodelsMusicryoko shinoharaRyokoShinoharasiliconeraSonySony-Computer-EntertainmentTue, 29 Aug 2006 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony reveals partial TGS lineup]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/08/23/sony-reveals-partial-tgs-lineup/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/08/23/sony-reveals-partial-tgs-lineup/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/08/23/sony-reveals-partial-tgs-lineup/#commentsFiled under: ,

The Games Convention is Germany has just begun, but that doesn't mean we can't look towards the next big gaming event: Tokyo Game Show. Sony will have a huge presence there, ready to show off the bleeding edge PlayStation 3 and maturing PlayStation Portable lineup of games. Here's what PSP fans can expect from the show:

PSP

Boxer's Road 2: The Real
Monster Hunter Portable 2
Jan Sangoku Musou
Metal Gear Solid: Bande Dessinee (Graphic Novel)
Metal Gear Solid: Portable Ops
Jeanne D'Arc
Sarugetchu Piposaru Racer
Tenchi No Mon 2 (Kingdom of Paradise 2)
Ratchet and Clank Portable
Ace Combat X: Skies of Deception
Gundam Battle Royale
Tales of World: Radiant Mythology

PSP GPS Software

Navigation Software (temporary title)
Metal Gear Solid: Portable Ops
Homestar Portable
Minna no Golf (temporary title)

I can't wait to see Metal Gear Solid and its newly announced GPS support in action. Jeanne D'Arc, Monster Hunter, Ratchet and Clank, and Tales are all pretty high-profile, and as you should know, Gundam will eat Japan. Go to Siliconera to see PS3's lineup.

[Via Siliconera]

JoystiqSony reveals partial TGS lineup originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Aug 2006 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ace combatAceCombatboxer's roadBoxer'sRoadclankconventiongpsgundamhomestarjeanne d'arcJeanneD'arckingdom of paradiseKingdomOfParadisemetal gear solidMetalGearSolidminna no golfMinnaNoGolfmonster hunterMonsterHunterplaystation 3Playstation3ps3pspratchetratchet and clankRatchetAndClanksiliconeratalestgstokyo game showTokyoGameShowWed, 23 Aug 2006 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Every Extend Extra video blowout]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/08/16/every-extend-extra-video-blowout/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/08/16/every-extend-extra-video-blowout/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/08/16/every-extend-extra-video-blowout/#comments

As if going crazy with Ultimate Ghosts 'n Goblins wasn't enough, Gametrailers.com has posted three new videos of Every Extend Extra on their site. (And you can download the iPod-formatted videos to your PSP!) You may have already seen 1UP's beautiful coverage of the game, but unless you've imported the game, videos are the best we have until the game ships in a month (for only $30, too!). From what I've played, the game isn't that much better than the original Every Extend, but it certainly is a lot of fun regardless. Spencer Yip, from Siliconera, seems to agree with that sentiment as well. After watching these videos, feel free to read his extensive import review.

JoystiqEvery Extend Extra video blowout originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Aug 2006 14:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>downloadevery extend extraEveryExtendExtragameplaygametrailers.comipodmizuguchiq?siliconeraspencer yipSpencerYiptrailerWed, 16 Aug 2006 14:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children reports from Hollywood]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/04/final-fantasy-vii-advent-children-reports-from-hollywood/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/04/final-fantasy-vii-advent-children-reports-from-hollywood/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/04/final-fantasy-vii-advent-children-reports-from-hollywood/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Rachel Leigh Cook as and next to Tifa LockheartFor the Final Fantasy fans lucky enough to be near Hollywood yesterday night -- and in line for free tickets during the middle of a regular workday -- there was much rejoicing to be had as Advent Children celebrated its U.S. theatrical premiere in style.

Siliconera has a write-up on the event with quotes from most of the American voice actors in attendance, who, along with the audience at hand, watched the film in English for the very first time. Lip synching may have been off due to the low-resolution print the actors had to work with, but even Rachel Leigh Cook -- pictured here with her character Tifa Lockheart -- declared herself a new fan of Final Fantasy after the show.

Helpful Joystiq Contributor epobirs also had something to report from the screening yesterday, where he gives us an Ain't-It-Cool style rundown of the event. If you want the rest of his reflections on the requirements of the Academy in Oscar nominations, as well as what it takes to "assert your hetero nature ... after watching a movie packed with metrosexual men," simply continue reading below for more. Siliconera's report can be found by clicking on the image of Ms. Cook above or the Read link below. Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children will be out on DVD/UMD April 25th.

[Thanks, epobirs; image of Tifa courtesy of Eyes on Final Fantasy]

Continue reading Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children reports from Hollywood

JoystiqFinal Fantasy VII: Advent Children reports from Hollywood originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 Apr 2006 11:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AcademyactoractorsAdvent ChildrenAdventChildrenAin't-It-CoolAmericanCookdubdubbingDVDEnglishepobirsfanFinal FantasyFinalFantasyheteroHollywoodLAlow-resolution printLow-resolutionPrintmetrosexualnominatenominatednominationnominationsOscarpremiereprintPSPRachel Leigh CookRachelLeighCookreflectionsreportreportsrequirementsresolutionscreeningSiliconeratheatricalticketsTifaTifa LockheartTifaLockheartU.S.UMDvoice actorvoice actorsVoiceActorVoiceActorsworkdayTue, 04 Apr 2006 11:25:00 EST