Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Ronimo celebrates a year of Awesomenauts, with more on the way]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/03/ronimo-celebrates-a-year-of-awesomenauts-with-more-on-the-way/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/03/ronimo-celebrates-a-year-of-awesomenauts-with-more-on-the-way/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/03/ronimo-celebrates-a-year-of-awesomenauts-with-more-on-the-way/#comments

Ronimo Games has shared this video on the first anniversary of its latest title Awesomenauts, featuring a look at all of the game's iterations over its history. From early alpha builds to the release version and then the various skins and updates, you can watch the awesomeness increase in front of your eyes.

Ronimo promises more is coming to the world of Awesomenauts. Update 1.18 is currently in testing, and it will add a balance overhaul and a Leon Pirate skin into the game that will replace all of that character's audio. Admiral Swiggins, the winning character from the "Design Your Own Awesomenaut" contest, is also set to release soon.

JoystiqRonimo celebrates a year of Awesomenauts, with more on the way originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 May 2013 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>admiral-swigginsawesomenautsmacmicrosoftpcplaystationps3releaseronimoronimo-gamesskinsupdatesxboxFri, 03 May 2013 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Path of Exile version 1.0 is six months away, one expansion per year after]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/30/path-of-exile-version-1-0-is-six-months-away-one-expansion-per/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/30/path-of-exile-version-1-0-is-six-months-away-one-expansion-per/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/30/path-of-exile-version-1-0-is-six-months-away-one-expansion-per/#comments Path of Exile plans version 10 in six months, and then one expansion per yearThe free-to-play action RPG Path of Exile went into open beta this past January, and the next step is putting together a version 1.0, Grinding Gear Games co-founder Chris Wilson told us this week at GDC 2013. Starting with about 250,000 registered players, the game has since grown up to around 2 million, with the devs fixing bugs and providing weekly patches since then.

The weekly patches, which have been adding new skills and items to the game, will continue to roll out. But version 1.0 is going to be the game's full release, when the "open beta" tag comes off, and the game "will be reviewable," according to Wilson. The update will add a full story to the game's Act 3, including lots of new monsters and items, and "do the stuff we had to cut corners on" throughout the game's development, Wilson said.

After that, "we intend to do expansions over the next five to ten years," Wilson told us. The team has no set plans for releases, and if they can put a major feature together in less time, then Wilson says they'll do it. The game already had a lot of success with "races," which are special events that challenge players to speedrun the game under special conditions. But in general, he said, given the current player base, "adding a new act to the game is probably a once a year thing."

JoystiqPath of Exile version 1.0 is six months away, one expansion per year after originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 30 Mar 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgchris-wilsonexpansionsfree-to-playgdcgdc-2013gdc2013grinding-gears-gamespatchpath-of-exilepcreleaseupdatesSat, 30 Mar 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Street Fighter X Mega Man V2 slides in for free on Jan. 18]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/15/street-fighter-x-mega-man-v2-slides-in-for-free-on-jan-18/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/15/street-fighter-x-mega-man-v2-slides-in-for-free-on-jan-18/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/15/street-fighter-x-mega-man-v2-slides-in-for-free-on-jan-18/#comments Capcom crossover Street Fighter X Mega Man picks up a free V2 update on Friday, January 18, via its group page on Capcom Unity. While we can't exactly gnash our fangs over a freebie like SFxMM, there's no doubt V2 brings some very welcome fixes and additions.

None more so than the addition of passwords, meaning we don't have to start the game from scratch every time we exit it. That's something that happened a heck of a lot to us because of accidentally pressing the insta-shutdown Escape button, but thankfully V2 remedies this too; now Escape and F12 bring up prompts making sure you want to exit or reset respectively.

Other minor adjustments include better support for controllers, the ability to capture screenshots (via F9), and a buff for M Bison - not that Bison ever needs one, of course.

JoystiqStreet Fighter X Mega Man V2 slides in for free on Jan. 18 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Jan 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcompcstreet-fighter-x-mega-manupdateupdatesTue, 15 Jan 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New GameSpy owners Glu Mobile shut down multiplayer servers without notice]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/12/new-gamespy-owners-glu-mobile-shut-down-multiplayer-servers-with/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/12/new-gamespy-owners-glu-mobile-shut-down-multiplayer-servers-with/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/12/new-gamespy-owners-glu-mobile-shut-down-multiplayer-servers-with/#comments New GameSpy owners Glu Mobile shut down multiplayer servers without noticePlayers of quite a few old PC games, including Neverwinter Nights, Microsoft Flight Simulator X, SWAT 4, Hidden and Dangerous 2, and Star Wars: Battlefront, are reporting that the GameSpy-powered multiplayer servers behind those titles and more have been shut off without notice. The GameSpy service was sold to publisher Glu Mobile from IGN a little while ago, so it's that company that's apparently responsible for shutting down these servers.

Another one of the games affected was Sniper Elite, and developer Rebellion says its hands are tied: Glu wants to charge a lot of money to turn the servers back on, and Rebellion doesn't have the resources to transfer the multiplayer on this old title to another service. Rebellion points out that fans of the game did get seven years of service for free. And while GameSpy's matchmaking is down, players of some of these games can still connect up online manually by IP.

Angry players have taken to GameSpy's old Facebook page to register their wrath, but there's no official response just yet.

JoystiqNew GameSpy owners Glu Mobile shut down multiplayer servers without notice originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Dec 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamespyglu-mobilemultiplayerneverwinter-nightsonlinepcserverssniper-elitestar-wars-battlefrontupdatesWed, 12 Dec 2012 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation Home updated to version 1.7]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/13/playstation-home-updated-to-version-1-7/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/13/playstation-home-updated-to-version-1-7/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/13/playstation-home-updated-to-version-1-7/#comments New features added to PS HomePlayStation Home has earned itself another global platform update, bringing Sony's virtual environment to version 1.7. This update adds the Camera to the Emotes menu, so you can pull it out at any time and take some pictures of your bad virtual self. There are also improvements to the in-game item store, new animated items to buy and find, and some new features on the ignore and block system, as well as some general stability improvements.

You can download and install the update on PlayStation Home right now. There are also some new deals and sales going on for Home's various virtual areas (like the x7 nightclub, above), but we'll let you find those for yourself. After all, exploration is what really draws players into Home, right? There is something that draws players into Home, right? We're pretty sure there must be something.

JoystiqPlayStation Home updated to version 1.7 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 Sep 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>in-game-itemsplaystationplaystation-blogplaystation-homeps3sonystoreupdatesThu, 13 Sep 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Diablo 3 patch incoming, real-money auction house still without launch date]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/diablo-3-patch-incoming-real-money-auction-house-still-without/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/diablo-3-patch-incoming-real-money-auction-house-still-without/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/diablo-3-patch-incoming-real-money-auction-house-still-without/#comments ImageBlizzard has made a quick update on its forums for Diablo 3 today, saying a post-launch patch could be ready as soon as next week. The patch, along with a number of server updates and other incoming fixes, will "further address client issues and apply additional bug fixes." One of the biggest issues is that, while the servers were bobbing up and down like buoys in the ocean last week, lots of players weren't able to earn achievements. Blizzard says it's still working on a solution.

Meanwhile, the real-money auction house has yet to be given a release date. It was supposed to be online earlier this week, but was pushed back after launch last week, and is now delayed indefinitely. "More information soon," says Blizzard.

Finally, Blizzard claims it's following the security concerns of players closely. According to the company, there is no "server spoofing" going on, official Blizzard servers themselves haven't been compromised, and Blizzard Authenticators are still the best way to keep an account secure. There's no word on the PvP update or any post-launch content yet - Blizzard's main goal at this point is to make sure the game is running steadily and securely.

JoystiqDiablo 3 patch incoming, real-money auction house still without launch date originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 May 2012 22:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardDiablo-3fixespatchpcreal-money-auction-houseserverserversupdatesThu, 24 May 2012 22:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Minecraft on XBLA working toward constant updates]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/21/minecraft-on-xbla-working-toward-constant-updates/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/21/minecraft-on-xbla-working-toward-constant-updates/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/21/minecraft-on-xbla-working-toward-constant-updates/#comments Xbox Live Arcade is an excellent platform that's delivered some of our favorite games over the years, but the approval process for XBLA titles (and their subsequent updates) isn't quite as expedient as other platforms. For ever-changing games like Minecraft, where updates are as vital as they are frequent, this can create potentially destructive brand fragmentation where two distinctly difference experiences exist on two different platforms.

Microsoft is aware of the issue, however, and as such will be streamlining the update process for 4J Studio's port of Mojang's runaway hit. "Microsoft knows that to do a similar thing that's on PC where they constantly update it, that's a very difficult thing to do on Xbox because you have to go through the full tests," said chief technology officer Paddy Burns during an interview with Edge. "But they are quite keen to move towards that - they do see it as the future, so I think we might be the first to do constant updates."

Realistically, Burns never expects updates for the XBLA port to come as frequently or as easily as on the PC, but he does believe that "every two months" is within the realm of possibility. Upon release, XBLA's version of Minecraft will be based on the Beta 1.6.6 version of the game, which released just before last year's E3. Burns hopes to reach parity with retail version 1.0 as quickly as possible.

JoystiqMinecraft on XBLA working toward constant updates originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 21 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4j-studiosmicrosoftMinecraftmojangpaddy-burnspatchpatchesupdatesXBLAxboxSat, 21 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[StarCraft 2's designer stands by tradition, promises updates 'soon']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/22/starcraft-2s-designer-stands-by-tradition-promises-updates-so/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/22/starcraft-2s-designer-stands-by-tradition-promises-updates-so/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/22/starcraft-2s-designer-stands-by-tradition-promises-updates-so/#commentsFiled under: , ,

To hear Starcraft 2 designer Dustin Browder tell it, creating games at Blizzard takes years of fighting and yelling rather than coding or creating art -- every little decision is a "a three-week or longer holy war." Browder says that the controversial decision to release the RTS as three titles was made to get the game out faster -- after all that arguing, Blizzard figured that it needed to release something, and if that had been the whole game, we'd have been waiting even longer. As it was, he says, "we wanted to get a product into consumers' hands sometime before the end of the decade. Even that we didn't quite make, I guess, but it was still sooner!"

Browder answers fans' concerns about how closely the second game resembles the first by suggesting that adapting RTS competitors' innovations wouldn't have made the game more successful. "I haven't really seen another gameplay experience that's attracted millions of players with hundreds of thousands playing online," he says. "I have not seen someone else be successful by removing economy. I have not seen other RTSes be successful by removing micro."

And finally, he says to look for future updates coming to the game, both in the form of patches to Battle.net, and in the other versions. There's no timeline set yet for the paid user maps program, but Blizzard is working on more art for modders, and updates "for our fans to get more value out of Battle.net." As for what updates will be in the second retail title, Heart of the Swarm, Browder seems to hint that Blizzard just hasn't decided yet. They must still be throwing things and yelling down in Irvine.

JoystiqStarCraft 2's designer stands by tradition, promises updates 'soon' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Sep 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battle-netblizzard-entertainmentdustin-browdergame-informerinterviewpatchespcrtsStarcraft-2starcraft-2-heart-of-the-swarmupdatesWed, 22 Sep 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: APB (Day 4: Cards on the table)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/09/review-apb-day-4-cards-on-the-table/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/09/review-apb-day-4-cards-on-the-table/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/09/review-apb-day-4-cards-on-the-table/#comments

Review Diary

This is the final part of a four-day review diary about the first MMO from developers Realtime Worlds, APB.

One of the hardest parts about reviewing an MMO is that the genre takes full advantage of being online and persistent. Because players need to log in to an updated client every time, developers can quickly and relatively easily push out new bugfixes and content with regularity. Realtime Worlds has already released one patch post-release for APB, and while I've talked about certain issues with repetitive gameplay and earning customization levels, both of those issues can be fixed with updates if the developers choose to do so.

So the final question in reviewing an MMO isn't necessarily if you should buy this game today or not. It's: Does the game offer enough promise to invest your time and attention? Future plans included, out of all the games you could spend your free time on, is APB capable of rewarding that investment with a quality experience?

Continue reading Review: APB (Day 4: Cards on the table)

JoystiqReview: APB (Day 4: Cards on the table) originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 Jul 2010 18:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinAPBcustomizationdave-joneseaea-partnersgameplaygenreissuesmmoonlinepatchespcrealtime-worldsreviewupdatesFri, 09 Jul 2010 18:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Divinity II: Flames of Vengeance add-on coming this August]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/05/divinity-ii-flames-of-vengeance-add-on-coming-this-august/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/05/divinity-ii-flames-of-vengeance-add-on-coming-this-august/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/05/divinity-ii-flames-of-vengeance-add-on-coming-this-august/#comments If you just so happen to be the square wheel that couldn't get enough of Divinity II: Ego Draconis last year, you're in luck. Publisher dtp entertainment has announced that an add-on will be released later this year, adding more than 30 brand new quests and about 15 hours of gameplay to the RPG. Divinity II: Flames of Vengeance will see release on the PC and through the Xbox Live Marketplace, and will update the game's world of Rivellon a completely revamped engine (for graphical and performance upgrades) as well as new updates on characters familiar to players of the first game.

There's no price yet, but it is targeted for a release in August 2010. In the meantime, you can browse the gallery below to see early screenshots of the add-on. Commenters have been saying to us that this game suffers from more than its share of bugs and issues, so maybe an engine revamp will help smooth that out.

Gallery: Divinity II: Flames of Vengeance add-on

JoystiqDivinity II: Flames of Vengeance add-on coming this August originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 05 Mar 2010 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>add-onaugust-2010august2010divinity-2downloadabledtp-entertainmentlarian-studiosMicrosoftrelease-dateupdatesxblaxblmxboxXbox-360Fri, 05 Mar 2010 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The best of WoW.com: June 23-30, 2009]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/01/the-best-of-wow-com-june-23-30-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/01/the-best-of-wow-com-june-23-30-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/01/the-best-of-wow-com-june-23-30-2009/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


See that shocked look on Thrall's face above? That guy's the leader of the Horde, and he just read (on WoW.com, of course) that for the first time, players of World of Warcraft will be able to switch their factions -- players will be able to leave his Horde, and those dirty Alliance might come to his side. No wonder he's so shocked. That story and more in this week's most popular posts from Joystiq's Azeroth-obsessed sister site.

News

Features

JoystiqThe best of WoW.com: June 23-30, 2009 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bannedbest-ofchangesexodusfaction-changesguildjoystiqpatchpatch-3.2ptrpublic-test-realmpunishedroundupsuspensionupdatesworld-of-warcraftwow.comyogg-saronWed, 01 Jul 2009 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The best of WoW.com: May 19-26, 2009]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/27/the-best-of-wow-com-may-19-26-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/27/the-best-of-wow-com-may-19-26-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/27/the-best-of-wow-com-may-19-26-2009/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Just in case you haven't heard, things are hopping over at Joystiq's sister site WoW.com (formerly WoW Insider). Not only are we continuing to post the most constant and in-depth news and views about the biggest game in the world (though not the best selling -- maybe we'll have to start a Wii Sports Insider, too), but we've now got your chance to head over and start up your own WoW blog, track your characters online, and even follow your friends and their activities ingame. Read our most popular posts from the past week below, and then head on over and make your own.

News

Features

JoystiqThe best of WoW.com: May 19-26, 2009 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 May 2009 03:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allianceblogshelphordehow-tolorenewspatch-3.1.2patch-3.2profilesspeculationupdatesworld-of-warcraftwowwow-comWed, 27 May 2009 03:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The best of WoW Insider: March 3-10, 2009]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/11/the-best-of-wow-insider-march-3-10-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/11/the-best-of-wow-insider-march-3-10-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/11/the-best-of-wow-insider-march-3-10-2009/#commentsFiled under: , ,


It's PTR time in the World of Warcraft, which means we're all checking out the next content patch before any of the changes go live (or are actually finalized). So now's the time for crazy stuff, whether it be testing out brand new bosses, seeing Warriors get a chance to break open Pally shields, or any of the other patch 3.1 lunacy. WoW Insider's got up-to-the-minute news about all of it.

News

Features

JoystiqThe best of WoW Insider: March 3-10, 2009 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Mar 2009 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuresguildwatchnewspatch-3.1ptrthe-queuetime-is-moneyulduarupdatesworld-of-warcraftwow-insiderWed, 11 Mar 2009 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Four more Burnout Paradise updates incoming]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/24/four-more-burnout-paradise-updates-incoming/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/24/four-more-burnout-paradise-updates-incoming/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/24/four-more-burnout-paradise-updates-incoming/#commentsFiled under:

Checked out CriterionGames.com recently? You might have noticed that they've completely revamped the site. Not only does it look swish and sexy, but it harbors some interesting information about upcoming Burnout Paradise content. You know, that game which came out in January but which people are still playing today? The game that's had copious amounts of free downloadable expansions and which was the first third party disc-based title to patch in trophies?

Four new expansions are listed on the "coming soon" section of the new Criterion Games website. While at the moment they're simply numbered packs, they will be unveiled, one by one, over the next four fridays, starting on October 31st. The only other information we're given about these packs is that we expect to see them arrive in Spring 2009. So after all this year's great games are played and forgotten, we're convinced we'll still be playing Burnout Paradise well after a year since release.

We'll keep you informed as and when these expansion packs are unveiled.

[Thanks Andrew Gaspar]

JoystiqFour more Burnout Paradise updates incoming originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Oct 2008 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>burnout-paradisecriterion-gamesEAexpansionsupdatesFri, 24 Oct 2008 20:15:00 EST<![CDATA[360 system update goes live, new features don't]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/06/360-system-update-goes-live-new-features-dont/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/06/360-system-update-goes-live-new-features-dont/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/06/360-system-update-goes-live-new-features-dont/#commentsFiled under:


Most of our posts are based around whipping you into a frenzy about some product (any one will do) so you'll go out and buy, buy, buy, shooting some much-needed muscle juice into our flagging economy. We do this because 1. We're incredibly patriotic and 2. We need Uncle Sam to keep turning a blind eye to the tens of millions of dollars we've hidden away in offshore companies all over the globe.

But today we're actually trying to brace you for a disappointment: When you boot up your 360 today, Major Nelson tells us there's going to be a new system update. But, he adds, it does absolutely nothing. Well, it "prepares for future growth of the service," whatever that means. Sorry to be the bearers of bad news, we just didn't want to see your get your heart broken. Hey, maybe you could cheer yourself up with some spending? That always helps us.

Joystiq360 system update goes live, new features don't originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Aug 2008 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dashboardnew-xbox-experienceupdatesXbox-360Wed, 06 Aug 2008 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 firmware version 2.42 is now live]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/30/ps3-firmware-version-2-41-is-now-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/30/ps3-firmware-version-2-41-is-now-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/30/ps3-firmware-version-2-41-is-now-live/#commentsFiled under:


Xbox 360 owners can keep their biannual complete overhaul of the dashboard and all its features, PS3 owners are getting their consoles spruced up every couple of weeks it seems. Why just this morning there was a brand new version of the console's firmware that made its way online.

What new features can you expect? Well, according to Sony, 2.42 "improves the playback quality of some PlayStation 3 and PlayStation format software." ... Hey, we said the updates were frequent, we never said they weren't vague.

JoystiqPS3 firmware version 2.42 is now live originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 Jul 2008 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>firmwarePS3ps3-firmwaresonyupdatesWed, 30 Jul 2008 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Burnout Paradise's 'Cagney' update delayed on Xbox 360 until July 24]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/burnout-paradises-cagney-update-delayed-on-360-until-july-24/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/burnout-paradises-cagney-update-delayed-on-360-until-july-24/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/burnout-paradises-cagney-update-delayed-on-360-until-july-24/#commentsFiled under: ,


Step right this way 360 owners, past the bearded woman, under the tent flap and into "Bizarro World!" In this world, 360 versions of things are always delayed, while PS3 players get to enjoy them first. Look, over there! That's a PS3 owner enjoying the new Burnout Paradise update "Cagney" today, and you've got to wait for it! And not just a few days like we originally thought! No, Criterion's now saying you're going to be waiting until at least July 24! The terror!

And look, over there, it's ... actually, that's the only exhibit we've got, sorry folks. Drive safely don't forget that your ticket stubs are good for 50 percent off at Pizza In a Cup.

[Thanks, SharpShooter]

JoystiqBurnout Paradise's 'Cagney' update delayed on Xbox 360 until July 24 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Jul 2008 13:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>burnout-paradisecriterionpatchespsnupdatesXbox-360xbox-liveThu, 10 Jul 2008 13:55:00 EST<![CDATA[2.40 is out, go download it now]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/01/2-40-is-out-go-download-it-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/01/2-40-is-out-go-download-it-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/01/2-40-is-out-go-download-it-now/#commentsFiled under:

It's that time again, firmware update time. The huge one is finally here: 2.40. So, without a doubt, we're sure you're all very anxious to go grab it already. Five bucks says most of you didn't even bother to read what is being written here and just saw the headline and ran off on us. We don't blame you. With that, we'll keep it short and enjoy our new firmware features.

[Thanks Tim P., and everyone who sent this in!]

Update: Super Stardust HD patch is live. The 255MB download will add trophies to your game.

Joystiq2.40 is out, go download it now originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Jul 2008 23:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.40firmwarefirmware-2.40ps3updatesTue, 01 Jul 2008 23:48:00 EST<![CDATA[Team Fortress 2 Pyro update coming Thursday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/17/team-fortress-2-pyro-update-coming-thursday/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/17/team-fortress-2-pyro-update-coming-thursday/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/17/team-fortress-2-pyro-update-coming-thursday/#commentsFiled under: ,


We didn't think it possible to get more satisfaction out of setting people and property ablaze, but the eternal optimists at Valve are attempting to improve on the experience with an update to Team Fortress 2's Pyro class, which the company has announced will arrive on Thursday. Expect the Axtinguisher (which sounds like something Strong Bad came up with) as well as two other weapons and 35 new achievements for the Fortress firebug.

What's more, all Steam users will be able to try out the new enhancements with a free Team Fortress 2 weekend beginning this Friday. (Note to new players: TF2 is not always a hellish world of flame, populated only by masked men spraying fire in every direction. That will pass, we promise.)

JoystiqTeam Fortress 2 Pyro update coming Thursday originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Jun 2008 08:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>patchesPCpyrosteamteam-fortress-2updatesTue, 17 Jun 2008 08:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Shop Channel down for maintenance [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/21/wii-shop-channel-down-for-maintenance/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/21/wii-shop-channel-down-for-maintenance/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/21/wii-shop-channel-down-for-maintenance/#commentsFiled under: ,


Update: Looks like the Wii Shop Channel is back up and running fine.

Imagine our surprise when going online to check out this week's Virtual Console releases, anxious to try the game you all are undoubtedly looking forward to, when we see this screen. For shame, Nintendo, to play with our emotions and expectations. We need this game, so let us have it already!

No word on when the maintenance will be over, but we'll keep checking it. If you notice before us, be sure to toss us a tip.

JoystiqWii Shop Channel down for maintenance [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 Apr 2008 18:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>maintenanceshopupdateswii-shop-channelMon, 21 Apr 2008 18:04:00 EST<![CDATA[American PSN updates for March 20th]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/american-psn-updates-for-march-20th/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/american-psn-updates-for-march-20th/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/american-psn-updates-for-march-20th/#commentsFiled under:


Better late than never right? FlatOut: Head On gets a free demo on the Store today. Check it out -- you may disagree (or agree) with our review! Visit store.playstation.com to start downloading.

PSP Software:
  • FlatOut: Head On demo (free)
  • Hot Shots Golf: Open Tee full game ($10.99)
Game Videos:
  • Patapon
  • Gran Turismo 5 Prologue
  • Hot Shots Golf: Open Tee
  • Ape Quest
Wallpapers:
  • Ape Quest
  • Hot Shots Golf: Open Tee
Themes:
  • Ape Quest
Enjoy!

JoystiqAmerican PSN updates for March 20th originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Mar 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>releasesstoreupdatesThu, 20 Mar 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DSF gets a new gallery system, overall +1 to style]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/06/dsf-gets-a-new-gallery-system-overall-1-to-style/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/06/dsf-gets-a-new-gallery-system-overall-1-to-style/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/06/dsf-gets-a-new-gallery-system-overall-1-to-style/#commentsFiled under:


It seems like just today we were talking about how the gallery system received an overhaul at Wii Fanboy. Wait, it was just today! And, now, DS Fanboy gets the same treatment. It's a day of celebration! If you didn't catch the post over there, then here's what changes were made:
  • As you can see above, you may now comment on individual photos in the gallery
  • You may now view photos in two distinct flavors: low-res and hi-res, allowing those of you with teh 56K to cruise around in our galleries and not worry about your computer blowing up
  • We can now add captions on each individual photo in the gallery, allowing us to explain (when needed) what you're looking at and why it's interesting (to us, anyway)
  • The color design of the gallery has also changed to an all-black affair, so hopefully that's better on your eyes than the all-white approach our galleries took before
And as with over there, we've embedded a gallery below so that you may go through and see all of the cool new stuff happening in our galleries. Now if you'll excuse us, we're going to start pouring the bubbly. Who wants some?

JoystiqDSF gets a new gallery system, overall +1 to style originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Mar 2008 15:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>galleriesgalleryupdateupdatesThu, 06 Mar 2008 15:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Menu gets updated, is now 3.2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/26/wii-menu-gets-updated-is-now-3-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/26/wii-menu-gets-updated-is-now-3-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/26/wii-menu-gets-updated-is-now-3-2/#commentsFiled under:


We know that most of you are probably too busy to bother with a Wii Menu update that you suspect adds very little in the way of functionality. We just wanted to take a moment to tell you that your suspicions are entirely correct: That little blue glow promises only version 3.2, a Disc Channel change that lets you know when an inserted disk has an update on it. You may now return to ignoring it.

To Zero Cool and the rest of you l33t hax0rs, worry not: The update apparently does nothing to impede the Twilight Princess hacks we're sure you've all grown so fond of.

JoystiqWii Menu gets updated, is now 3.2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Feb 2008 13:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>twilight-princess-hacksupdatesWiiwii-menuTue, 26 Feb 2008 13:25:00 EST<![CDATA[New Folding@Home update: nothing to write home about]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/15/new-folding-home-update-nothing-to-write-home-about/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/15/new-folding-home-update-nothing-to-write-home-about/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/15/new-folding-home-update-nothing-to-write-home-about/#commentsFiled under:

A minor update for Folding@home dropped in this morning. In fact, the picture above pretty much sums up everything you'll need to know about the update. "Operations for handling network errors related to the uploading and downloading of work units have been improved." Exhilarating! Riveting, even.

Though the update's description is vague, it does bring a bit of the "curiosity cat" out of us. Have you had many problems with downloading/uploading work units? Does this update relieve those network connection woes that have been keeping you up at night?

[Thanks, SirRealVision!]

P.S. Join our Folding team: #57793. All the cool kids are doing it!

JoystiqNew Folding@Home update: nothing to write home about originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Feb 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>foldingfolding-at-homeupdatesFri, 15 Feb 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Photo channel update avoidable and reversible]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/11/photo-channel-update-avoidable-and-reversible/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/11/photo-channel-update-avoidable-and-reversible/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/11/photo-channel-update-avoidable-and-reversible/#commentsFiled under:


The update that will make the Photo Channel lose MP3 support is finally here, and we can only imagine how utterly gutted you are. Or maybe "utterly indifferent" would be more fitting.

Fortunately, if you're like us and think this "upgrade" makes no sense (even though we don't even use the Photo Channel), there are steps you can take to resist switching to AAC compatibility. First, you can avoid downloading the Photo Channel 1.1 upgrade altogether, which is the easiest course of action, as this means you don't have to do anything. If it's too late and you've already downloaded the upgrade (for curiosity's sake, perhaps?), then you also have the option to downgrade the Photo Channel back to version 1.0, which allows MP3 playback. Just follow Nintendo's handy instructions here to get the downgrade.

Of course, this will only work with Wiis sold before December 2007, so if you've gotten yourself a shiny new Wii for the holidays, you're out of luck.

[Thanks, hollyw0od!]

JoystiqPhoto channel update avoidable and reversible originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Dec 2007 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aacmp3Photo-channelphotochannelupdatesTue, 11 Dec 2007 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Photo Channel to become less useful in December]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/13/photo-channel-to-become-less-useful-in-december/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/13/photo-channel-to-become-less-useful-in-december/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/13/photo-channel-to-become-less-useful-in-december/#commentsFiled under: ,


Nintendo will be making some changes to the Photo Channel next month, including two neat features and one annoying feature. First, the neat feature: you'll be able to create your own Photo Channel icon for the Wii Menu from one of your pictures. Also, random song selection will be enabled for music files.

But about those music files. The other feature seems to have been added with the best of intentions, but is a misstep as far as we're concerned: the MP3 support is being removed in favor of AAC format support. Nintendo cites the improved sound quality of AAC files versus MP3's, but the files won't sound very good at all if you can't play them. Unless the file is 4'33", which may sound even better.

The problem is that most of the AAC files on anyone's computer are songs downloaded from the iTunes Music Store. These songs are protected by DRM and, thus, won't work if they are moved to a system that is not authorized by iTunes. Since there's no iTunes client for the Wii (only programs that let you stream iTunes-controlled music), the files just won't do a thing.

Only if you have ripped your CDs to AAC, or if you've paid out the extra the same amount for "iTunes Plus" versions of your music will you be able to play AAC's. Unless Nintendo works some kind of DRM-breaking magic, which won't happen. Of course, if you're like us, this update probably won't impact you in any real way. We personally have never used the Photo Channel for anything.

[Via GoNintendo]

JoystiqPhoto Channel to become less useful in December originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Nov 2007 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aacphoto-channelphotochannelupdatesTue, 13 Nov 2007 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhawk 1.1 patch ready for download]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/02/warhawk-1-1-patch-ready-for-download/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/02/warhawk-1-1-patch-ready-for-download/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/02/warhawk-1-1-patch-ready-for-download/#commentsFiled under: ,


If you've been looking for a good excuse to go back to Warhawk, you may have one today, as our dear friends at PS3 Fanboy are reporting that the 1.1 patch for the game is available now. In case you've forgotten since we last talked about it, the patch is largely under-the-hood fixes to improve performance. (We've put the full list after the jump.)

As a reminder, as of today you'll also want to be on the lookout for "Arbiters," a crack team charged with infiltrating games and snuffing out shenanigans. They'll be keeping an eye peeled for cheating (which we bet will make them a fairly easy kill.)

Continue reading Warhawk 1.1 patch ready for download

JoystiqWarhawk 1.1 patch ready for download originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Nov 2007 17:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>patchesps3updateswarhawkFri, 02 Nov 2007 17:25:00 EST<![CDATA[American PSN store gets Spyro in update, Europe gets more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/26/american-psn-store-gets-spyro-in-update-europe-gets-more/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/26/american-psn-store-gets-spyro-in-update-europe-gets-more/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/26/american-psn-store-gets-spyro-in-update-europe-gets-more/#commentsFiled under:

With just some wallpapers, trailers and PS Eye software, there's not a whole lot to crow about in the new PlayStation Network update if you live in America. (Check the list after the break if you don't believe us.) Sure, you can drop $5.99 to play Spyro the Dragon, and, yes, Spyro is a really rad game. But it's not exactly a red-letter day.

If you live in Europe though, the update was, dare we say, bountiful. First you've got three, count 'em, three PlayStation Eye games, Aqua Vita (£1.99), Operation Creature Feature (£3.49) and Trials of Topoq (£3.49). Then you've got demos for Tony Hawk's Proving Ground and Ratchet and Clank Future: Tools of Destruction.

We'll get you next time, Europe ... next time.

Continue reading American PSN store gets Spyro in update, Europe gets more

JoystiqAmerican PSN store gets Spyro in update, Europe gets more originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Oct 2007 12:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcplaystationeyePS3psnPSN-ThursdaypsnstoreupdatesFri, 26 Oct 2007 12:57:00 EST<![CDATA[City of Heroes going back in time]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/03/city-of-heroes-going-back-in-time/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/03/city-of-heroes-going-back-in-time/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/03/city-of-heroes-going-back-in-time/#commentsFiled under: ,


NCsoft has pulled the glasses off of its next update and revealed its secret identity. Issue 11, "A Stitch in Time," will allow players to travel into the past of the City of Heroes universe and relive (or live for the first time) some of the major events that helped to shape Paragon City.

Of course, there will also be the requisite new power sets ("Dual blades" is obvious, but we're curious about "Willpower") and enhanced customization of weapons to match the depth of the costume creation system in the game. It all sounds cool, but we're curious: Are any of you still playing CoH?

[Via TVG]

JoystiqCity of Heroes going back in time originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Oct 2007 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cityofheroesncsoftPCupdatesWed, 03 Oct 2007 15:58:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 gets firmware 1.92 [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/04/ps3-gets-firmware-1-92/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/04/ps3-gets-firmware-1-92/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/04/ps3-gets-firmware-1-92/#commentsFiled under:

As you may have already discovered PS3 firmware update 1.92 is now live, and it's the best update ever. Why? Well, because the changelog wasn't released alongside the update, so 1.92 currently has the best feature of all: Possibility. A quick glance through the NeoGAF forums shows us that the update does everything from improving the internet browser to automatically powering off controllers to improving PS1 and PS2 support and heating Toaster Strudels.

So, no, we don't really know what it does at the moment. Do you have any ideas? Notice your PS3 acting strangely? Hopefully we'll know more later in the day.

Update: So, Sony released the list of new features right here. Apparently the only difference is that backwards compatibility for some PS2 titles has been improved.

[Thanks, Ghost]

JoystiqPS3 gets firmware 1.92 [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 Sep 2007 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>firmwareneogafps3updatesTue, 04 Sep 2007 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Shadowrun patched [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/25/shadowrun-title-update-due-next-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/25/shadowrun-title-update-due-next-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/25/shadowrun-title-update-due-next-week/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Shadowrun players may have to drop one of their hobbies once they download the new title update. No, they won't be forced to quit the multiplayer FPS, they'll have to give up whatever they've been doing during the hours (OK, minutes) it takes to join a game. In the official Shadowrun forums, lead program manager "Kimona" says that the new update is expected to improve wait times 200 to 300%. The post also promises improved sync times when new players join a game and changes to the party system. There are also some changes specific to Vista.

Kimona isn't saying exactly what day next week the update will drop, but suffice it to say you had better put some major time into that "Bless This Mess" needlepoint over the weekend. Update: Doh, the patch is now live (and has been since yesterday!). Anyone notice improved wait times?

[Via Team Xbox]

JoystiqShadowrun patched [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Jul 2007 15:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>PCshadowrunupdatesvistaXbox-360xbox360Wed, 25 Jul 2007 15:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Starfox 64 update restores historically accurate slowdown?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/30/rumor-starfox-64-update-restores-historically-accurate-slowdown/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/30/rumor-starfox-64-update-restores-historically-accurate-slowdown/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/30/rumor-starfox-64-update-restores-historically-accurate-slowdown/#commentsFiled under: , ,

No word if this is a real issue or a NeoGAF freakout, but if the perfect beauty of one of your Virtual Console games is in danger, it's our solemn duty to report on it. What is known is that Nintendo has issued an updated version of StarFox 64. What isn't known is what it does.

NeoGAFfer Nuclear Muffin (judging by the name, a level-headed character) reported that after downloading the update this morning, he found the game slowing down in the same way the original Nintendo 64 version. Again, no idea if this is true, or if it's a delusion created by someone trying to find an effect of this update, but it's terrifying if true.

Normally, we're all about accurate presentation of emulated games, but we have no problem with Nintendo fixing the resolution and speed of N64 games, because they totally need it. We really hope they haven't decided to unfix it.

JoystiqRumor: Starfox 64 update restores historically accurate slowdown? originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 Apr 2007 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>emulationfoxnintendonintendo wiiNintendoWiipatchpatchesrareslowdownstarstarfoxstarfox 64Starfox64updatesvcvirtualconsolewiiMon, 30 Apr 2007 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Crackdown update adds more gang drivers, multiplayer fixes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/30/crackdown-update-adds-more-gang-drivers-multiplayer-fixes/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/30/crackdown-update-adds-more-gang-drivers-multiplayer-fixes/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/30/crackdown-update-adds-more-gang-drivers-multiplayer-fixes/#commentsFiled under: ,

Those of you giving Crackdown the first spin in a few days will notice an automatic update for the game, if, of course, you're connected to Xbox Live. Here's what it is not:

1.The magical switch to activate the Halo 3 beta.
2. The remaining 100 Achievement Points.
3. The new multiplayer modes, 'gang reset' option or planes.

Here -- according to Xbox Live Director of Programming Major Nelson -- is what the update does do:

1. Makes some small technical fixes to "ensure a smoother online gameplay experience."
2. Increases the number of gang-controlled vehicles. ("Repo Man" Achievement hunters rejoice!)

Sure, you could view this as a disappointment if you were hoping for some of the above Crackdown updates. But we eternal optimists choose to look at is as just more things we still have to look forward to! Huzzah!

JoystiqCrackdown update adds more gang drivers, multiplayer fixes originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 Mar 2007 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>360crackdownmicrosoftupdatesXbox-360Fri, 30 Mar 2007 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Splinter Cell: To 1080p or not to p]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/19/splinter-cell-to-1080p-or-not-to-p/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/19/splinter-cell-to-1080p-or-not-to-p/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/19/splinter-cell-to-1080p-or-not-to-p/#commentsFiled under:


Has the 1080p console era arrived sooner than expected, courtesy of Ubisoft? The above pic is screen cap from a debug copy of Splinter Cell: Double Agent for the Xbox 360 showing support for "true HD" (to use Sony's patronizing marketing terminology). GamePro says they received confirmation from Ubisoft that the retail version will indeed support 1080p. Elsewhere, 1up says their contact told them "No, it's 1080i" but admits things are pretty hectic at Ubi right now, so who knows? All acknowledge that 1080p support is useless without the necessary update Microsoft, expected some time in the near future (although GamePro theorizes that it could be included on the Double Agent disc). Even then, without an HDMI solution from MS, the much-hyped resolution would be possible only via the rare 1080p HDTV (Sharp?) that supports 1920x1080 via VGA input.

Meanwhile, back in standard-def-trying-in-vain-to-read-that -Dead-Rising-text land, the po' folk are snickering because their snooty 720p neighbors now have to go out and buy a new TV if they want to remain on the bleeding edge of the 360 community.

How many lucky bastards already have a 1080p HDTV and are just dying to put it to use? How many don't think they'll get a 1080p set for years?

Correction: As several readers have pointed out, only 1080p movies using the HD-DVD drive require HDMI. Games will work over both HDMI or VGA.

[Thanks Luke]

JoystiqSplinter Cell: To 1080p or not to p originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Oct 2006 04:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1080pdouble agentDoubleAgentsplinter cellSplinterCellubisoftupdatesThu, 19 Oct 2006 04:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Test Drive: Updated (already)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/12/test-drive-updated-already/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/12/test-drive-updated-already/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/12/test-drive-updated-already/#commentsFiled under:

In an era of over due patches (Far Cry, Dead Rising, etc.), credit Atari with responding to their customers in less than a week. Now that's an auto-update.

[Thanks srw985]

JoystiqTest Drive: Updated (already) originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Sep 2006 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ataritest driveTestDriveupdatesTue, 12 Sep 2006 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Circuit City back compat rip-off]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/04/circuit-city-back-compat-rip-off/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/04/circuit-city-back-compat-rip-off/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/04/circuit-city-back-compat-rip-off/#commentsFiled under:

For the bargain price of $28.99, the smiling crooks at Circuit City will help some gullible soccer mom install "backwards compatibility" on a newly purchased Xbox 360, despite the fact back compat updates are free via Xbox Live (or by mail for those without an internet connection). On a more positive note, a call to my local store confirmed that Circuit City does not charge Downes Syndrome kids double for all Xbox 360 related purchases. At least not yet.

JoystiqCircuit City back compat rip-off originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Sep 2006 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>back compatBackCompatbig boxBigBoxcircuit cityCircuitCityrip-offupdatesMon, 04 Sep 2006 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Firmware 2.80 now available via Network Update [update 1]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/07/27/firmware-2-80-now-available-via-network-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/07/27/firmware-2-80-now-available-via-network-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/07/27/firmware-2-80-now-available-via-network-update/#commentsFiled under: ,

Firmware 2.80 now available via Network Update
Sony has released its new PSP firmware 2.80 update today. You can download it using the Network Update feature in your PSP.

When updating, the firmware reads it contains the following features:
  • You can now download video and image content under [RSS Channel];
  • You can now register devices via a wireless LAN access point under [LocationFree Player];
  • You can now play AAC files with file extension .3gp under [Music]; and
  • You can now play content saved in "Music," "Picture" and "Video" folders on a Memory Stick. (Apparently, this means you don't have to rename video files, and you can play them without using special folders.)
Sony recently announced its plans for the new upgrade at Comic-Con. It will be interesting to see in the coming days whether Sony has addressed any of the recent breakthroughs in the homebrew scene.

[update 1: Fixed a misspelled word and hopefully clarified the post a bit.]

[Thanks Chris]

JoystiqFirmware 2.80 now available via Network Update [update 1] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 27 Jul 2006 03:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.80firmwarePSP firmwarePspFirmwareupdatesThu, 27 Jul 2006 03:08:00 EST<![CDATA[Uno matchmaking fix on the way]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/10/uno-matchmaking-fix-on-the-way/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/10/uno-matchmaking-fix-on-the-way/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/10/uno-matchmaking-fix-on-the-way/#commentsFiled under:


UNO for Xbox Live Arcade (currently the game of choice for Xbox360Fanboy editorial meetings) is generally percieved as a successful take on the classic card game -- with one major flaw: gamers attempting to play a ranked match are thrown into their own lobby instead of being matched up, resulting in an annoying wait for competition. Fortunately Carbonated Games tells us a fix is near. UNO Program Manager Richard Thames Rowan posted the following response to complaints on K1lla's Xbox Domain:

The UNO development team is aware of the problem that some people are having with matchmaking and has a fix going through certification right now. Hopefully, you'll see this roll out soon, so no need to email anyone.

Finally, ranked matches without a 20 minute wait. There can be only one.

JoystiqUno matchmaking fix on the way originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 10 Jun 2006 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcadebugsfixmatchmakingunoupdatesSat, 10 Jun 2006 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[360 BC update "in the next few weeks"]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/03/360-bc-update-in-the-next-few-weeks/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/03/360-bc-update-in-the-next-few-weeks/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/03/360-bc-update-in-the-next-few-weeks/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Xbox 360 BC list last updated March 2006
Thanks to the folks at the Gamerscore Blog, we've learned that the next Xbox back compat update "should be out in the next few weeks."

In his earlier blast against BC, Peter Moore proclaimed that nobody is concerned about it anymore, but thankfully the gentler Gamerscore peeps have set the record straight, stating: "We know for a fact that there are lots of people who continue to care about backwards compatibility, including the 'Emulation Ninjas' who are working full time on the updates. And those of us posting on this blog. And, of course, many of you."

We suppose quarterly updates to the BC list aren't TOO bad (hey, they sure beat semiannual dashboard updates), but getting more than a dozen titles to work each time would definitely help a lot more for those with original Xbox favorites they'd prefer to play on their new machines. Personally, this blogger would like to see the following titles added to the list: Dead or Alive Ultimate, Doom 3, Capcom vs. SNK 2, Marvel vs. Capcom 2, Project Gotham Racing 2, LEGO Star Wars, Street Fighter Anniversary Collection, Soul Calibur II, and Capcom Classics Collection. It may not be realistic to expect Street Fighter support when Hyper Fighting is set to hit Live Arcade sometime in the near future, but one can (vainly) hope.

[Via Major Nelson's blog]

See also:

Joystiq360 BC update "in the next few weeks" originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 03 Jun 2006 12:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>back compatBackCompatbackward compatiblebackward-compatibleBackwardCompatiblebackwards compatiblebackwards-compatibleBackwardsCompatibleBCblogCapcomCapcom Classics CollectionCapcom vs. SNK 2CapcomClassicsCollectionCapcomVs.Snk2Dead or Alive UltimateDeadOrAliveUltimateGamerscoreHyper FightingHyperFightingin the next few weeksInTheNextFewWeeksLEGO Star WarsLegoStarWarslistLive ArcadeLiveArcadeMarvel vs. Capcom 2MarvelVs.Capcom2Peter MoorePeterMooreProject Gotham Racing 2ProjectGothamRacing2quarterlysemiannualSF IISF IIISfIiSfIiiSoul Calibur IISoulCaliburIiStreet FighterStreet Fighter Anniversary CollectionStreet Fighter IIStreet Fighter IIIStreetFighterStreetFighterAnniversaryCollectionStreetFighterIiStreetFighterIiititlesupdateupdatesXboxXbox-360Sat, 03 Jun 2006 12:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Yuji Naka confirmed to be leaving Sega to form Prope]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/08/yuji-naka-confirmed-to-be-leaving-sega-to-form-prope/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/08/yuji-naka-confirmed-to-be-leaving-sega-to-form-prope/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/08/yuji-naka-confirmed-to-be-leaving-sega-to-form-prope/#commentsFiled under:

Yuji Naka strikes a poseBack in March, we heard rumblings that Sega stalwart Yuji Naka was planning to leave Sega to start his own studio. Today, that rumor's been confirmed.

According to Next Generation, Naka's new company is called Prope, which means "'beside' and 'near' future." Prope's web site (not linked on Next Gen) apparently explains that the name was chosen "in the hopes of bringing game entertainment much closer to users, establishing closer ties between users and us, and creating near future entertainment."

We're just happy that Naka is retaining some ties to his old corporate home thanks to a 10% contribution on Sega's part to prop up the emerging new independent studio (a concept which Sega seems to support with its developers). Unfortunately, as the firm "will commit to new IP," you shouldn't expect updates of Sega classic franchises from the old hand anytime soon. It will also be interesting to see who's guiding the new Sonic games as well. Prope will open for business on June 1st.

[Thanks, Sense; via 8-bit Ninja]

See also:

JoystiqYuji Naka confirmed to be leaving Sega to form Prope originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 May 2006 12:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>besideclassic franchiseclassic franchisesClassicFranchiseClassicFranchisesclosercloser tiesCloserTiesconfirmedcontributiondeveloperdevelopersfuture entertainmentFutureEntertainmentindependentIPJune 1June 1stJune1June1stNakanear futureNearFuturenew companynew IPNewCompanyNewIpNext GenNext GenerationNextGenNextGenerationNiGHTSNiGHTS into DreamsNightsIntoDreamsProperumorSegaSonicstudiosupportupdatesYuji NakaYujiNakaMon, 08 May 2006 12:20:00 EST