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[Shaq's licensing company trademarks 'Shaqfighter']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/shaqs-licensing-company-trademarks-shaqfighter/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/shaqs-licensing-company-trademarks-shaqfighter/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/shaqs-licensing-company-trademarks-shaqfighter/#comments
Mine O' Mine, the licensing company responsible for all things bearing the resemblance of the legendarily mononymous Shaq, has registered a trademark for "Shaqfighter." The trademark's Goods and Services qualifications cover the term for "providing online games" and "computer and video game characters," among many other purposes along that line, which leads us to believe that this is probably a video game thing.

Of course, when the words "Shaq" and "fighter" are thrown together in such close proximity, 1994's Shaq-fu immediately springs to mind for any of us old enough to remember it in all of its confusing, supernatural glory. Well, "glory." Here's hoping this new jam ends up being more than an Infinity Blade clone starring an endless bloodline of medieval Shaqs. Actually ...

JoystiqShaq's licensing company trademarks 'Shaqfighter' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 May 2013 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>shaqshaq-fushaqfightertrademarkUSPTOWed, 15 May 2013 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple patent turns in-game choices into a customized comic book]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/23/apple-patent-turns-in-game-choices-into-a-customized-comic-book/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/23/apple-patent-turns-in-game-choices-into-a-customized-comic-book/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/23/apple-patent-turns-in-game-choices-into-a-customized-comic-book/#comments Apple patent turns ingame choices into a customized comic bookIn 2009, Apple filed a patent to transfer players' unique video game story paths, choices and customized characters to book form, available automatically after the game was finished as an e-book, book or graphic novel. The USPTO granted Apple that patent today and made it public, complete with scores of Mass Effect-themed mock-ups demonstrating how the system would work.

Today, we can see this program working well with a narrative-driven game such as Telltale's The Walking Dead: At the end of each episode, Apple's system would spit out a single-issue comic populated with each player's individual choices, dialogue trees and screenshots, shown directly on the console or PC and transferrable to tablets or other mobile devices. It's the circle of undead life, according to The Walking Dead - comic to game and back to comic, with some other lucrative multimedia stops along the way.

Of course there's no telling if Apple is still interested in its patent, or how it would implement the system if it were. It could, however, prove a nice fit for those iPads people seem so fond of.

JoystiqApple patent turns in-game choices into a customized comic book originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Apr 2013 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Applebookbookscomic-booke-bookgraphic-noveliosipadiphonemacmobilepatentUSPTOTue, 23 Apr 2013 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo patents game controller integration in remote-controlled toys]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/09/nintendo-patents-game-controller-integration-in-remote-controlle/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/09/nintendo-patents-game-controller-integration-in-remote-controlle/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/09/nintendo-patents-game-controller-integration-in-remote-controlle/#comments Nintendo patents remotely controlled mobile device control systemNintendo has been granted a new patent this week, a "remotely controlled mobile device control system" filed back in 2011. In layman's terms, it's a patent that calls for embedding a Wiimote within a remote-controlled toy - a toy which then would interact with a game console.

Nintendo has been fairly quiet on the patent front lately, the latest patent emerging last year: a system to emulate handheld games on other platforms. Last month, Nintendo lost a lawsuit over a 3DS patent, awarding $30.2 million in damages to Tomija Technologies.

JoystiqNintendo patents game controller integration in remote-controlled toys originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Apr 2013 17:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nintendopatentusptowiiwii-uTue, 09 Apr 2013 17:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft files 'Glacier Blast' trademark]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/06/microsoft-files-glacier-blast-trademark/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/06/microsoft-files-glacier-blast-trademark/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/06/microsoft-files-glacier-blast-trademark/#comments Microsoft files 'Glacier Blast' trademarkA trademark for "Glacier Blast" was recently filed with the US Patent and Trademark Office by Microsoft. While no other information about it exists, the trademark was filed as game software. Microsoft also registered the domain glacierblastgame.com in late March, according to WhoIs records. The URL currently points to a Bing search.

Using our refined detective skills, we think it's possible that this piece of "game software" is a video game currently in development by Microsoft. With a name like "Glacier Blast," we'll be disappointed if the final product isn't an arctic naval combat game in which large icy masses shoot lasers at an enemy called "Global Warming."

JoystiqMicrosoft files 'Glacier Blast' trademark originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 06 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>domainglacier-blastMicrosoftTrademarkUSPTOSat, 06 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bungie files trademark apps for Glimmer, Fallen, Hive, Cabal, Vex]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/17/bungie-files-trademark-apps-for-glimmer-fallen-hive-cabal-ve/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/17/bungie-files-trademark-apps-for-glimmer-fallen-hive-cabal-ve/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/17/bungie-files-trademark-apps-for-glimmer-fallen-hive-cabal-ve/#comments Bungie files trademark apps for Glimmer, Fallen, Hive, Cabal, VexBungie is on the hunt for intellectual property, filing trademark applications for five ideas: Glimmer, Fallen, Hive, Cabal and Vex. Filed on March 11 and spotted by Gamespot, each word seeks protection for a range of products, including video games, novels (graphic and classic), Halloween costumes, clothing, action figures, television and movies.

Bungie, of course, is working on Destiny, a persistent-world console shooter with RPG elements. Destiny will come to the PlayStation 4 alongside the PS3 and Xbox 360 versions, sometime not in 2013.

JoystiqBungie files trademark apps for Glimmer, Fallen, Hive, Cabal, Vex originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 17 Mar 2013 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BungiecabaldestinyfallenglimmerHivemicrosoftplaystationps3TrademarkUSPTOvexxboxSun, 17 Mar 2013 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mutant Mudds dev Renegade Kid preparing 'Treasurenauts']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/28/mutant-mudds-dev-renegade-kid-preparing-treasurenauts/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/28/mutant-mudds-dev-renegade-kid-preparing-treasurenauts/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/28/mutant-mudds-dev-renegade-kid-preparing-treasurenauts/#comments Mutant Mudds dev working on 'Treasurenauts'Stalwart DS/3DS development studio Renegade Kid is preparing to announce its next game: Treasurenauts. Renegade Kid confirmed an impending announcement after a trademark for the name surfaced at Siliconera.

Renegade Kid's last effort was Mutant Mudds, a platformer that started out on the 3DS and eventually made its way over to Windows and iOS. A Wii U port is in the oven and the developer has said a sequel is also in progress.

JoystiqMutant Mudds dev Renegade Kid preparing 'Treasurenauts' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Feb 2013 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>renegade-kidtrademarktreasurenautsusptoThu, 28 Feb 2013 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallout trademark covers a TV show in an apocalyptic paradise]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/16/fallout-trademark-covers-a-tv-show-in-an-apocalyptic-paradise/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/16/fallout-trademark-covers-a-tv-show-in-an-apocalyptic-paradise/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/16/fallout-trademark-covers-a-tv-show-in-an-apocalyptic-paradise/#comments Fallout trademark filed to cover usage as television programBethesda may be looking toward the future of its franchises, trademarking the Fallout brand for the purposes of using it in "entertainment services in the nature of an on-going television program set in a post-nuclear apocalyptic world," according to a USPTO listing. We thought Desperate Housewives had the "reality we would never want to live in" genre covered, but the more, the merrier.

Fallout forum member Conor Murton posted about the trademark today and Bethesda has yet to comment on the listing. Bethesda could simply be protecting its franchise, or it could have more active plans.

JoystiqFallout trademark covers a TV show in an apocalyptic paradise originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Jan 2013 21:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bethesdaBethesda-SoftworksfallouttelevisionTrademarktvUSPTOWed, 16 Jan 2013 21:45:00 EST<![CDATA['Chubby Kings' trademark filed by Ubisoft]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/12/chubby-kings-trademark-filed-by-ubisoft/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/12/chubby-kings-trademark-filed-by-ubisoft/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/12/chubby-kings-trademark-filed-by-ubisoft/#comments 'Chubby Kings' trademark filed by UbisoftUbisoft has filed trademarks in both Europe and the U.S. for something called Chubby Kings, which we can safely infer from both filings' category designations is definitely a video game of some kind, though whether it's planned for console, mobile and/or handheld is indeterminate as this juncture.

The Chubby Kings trademark registers the game as potential media for everything from CD-ROMs and PDAs through technologies that aren't completely obsolete, so who knows. What we're most interested in, however, is exactly what purpose the adjective "chubby" serves in this sense. Are these regular kings that are also chubby? Perhaps the kings themselves are of average build, but rule over a kingdom of chubby denizens? These are important distinctions.

Joystiq'Chubby Kings' trademark filed by Ubisoft originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 12 Jan 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chubby-kingstrademarkubisoftUSPTOSat, 12 Jan 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Killer Instinct trademark renewal rejected, what it means]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/04/killer-instinct-trademark-renewal-rejected-what-it-means/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/04/killer-instinct-trademark-renewal-rejected-what-it-means/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/04/killer-instinct-trademark-renewal-rejected-what-it-means/#comments Microsoft renews Killer Instinct trademarkMicrosoft's trademark renewal of Killer Instinct has been rejected by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) for "likelihood of confusion." As NeoGAF points out, this bit of confusion has to do with the short-lived FOX show Killer Instinct from 1995. Microsoft announced in mid-September it was in the process of renewing the long-languishing intellectual property, but did not specify the purpose.

So, what does the rejection mean? We checked with attorney Mark Methenitis who pens Law of the Game.

"In short, this means ... more or less nothing," Methenitis told us when asked if there was more to the rejection. "It's just an office action; they happen on lots of trademark applications, and is not by any means the final say on the application. It just means that Microsoft has to provide more evidence to overcome their objection to move forward with the application."

He continued, "All things considered, I would imagine that Microsoft has a pretty strong position reverting back to the previous Killer Instinct games, which far predate the Fox filing, and moreover, there's no evidence of actual confusion between that show and the game."

According to Methenitis, Microsoft has six months to respond. He equated this action to fighting games, saying it's like taking some hits in the first round, but you haven't even come close to losing the bout.

JoystiqKiller Instinct trademark renewal rejected, what it means originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 Dec 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>killer-instinctmicrosoftraretrademarksusptoxboxTue, 04 Dec 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA['Fighters of Capcom' trademarked]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/20/fighters-of-capcom-trademarked/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/20/fighters-of-capcom-trademarked/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/20/fighters-of-capcom-trademarked/#comments 'Fighters of Capcom' trademarked by Capcom
Whoa, hey, listen -- put that knife down. Look, we know you just had a terrifying Capcom Fighting Jam flashback, but everything is going to be okay. We've got no idea whether Capcom's newly registered trademark for "Fighters of Capcom" has anything to do with a fighting game. It could just as easily be the western name for some GREE card battling thing for cell phones, specifically Capcom All Stars with Everyone, which launched in Japan late last month.

It is video game related, we do know that much. The trademark's designation covers several variations on "Computer game software," as well as a few forms of "Electronic game programs for mobile phones and smart phones" and a mountain of other distinctions. We've reached out to Capcom for more information, so let's just both take a deep breath and drink this calming chamomile tea before someone gets knife murdered.

Joystiq'Fighters of Capcom' trademarked originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Nov 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomCapcom-All-Stars-with-Everyonecapcom-fighting-jamfighters-of-capcomGREEtrademarkUSPTOTue, 20 Nov 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft files patent for device that enforces licenses through visual surveillance]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/07/microsoft-files-patent-for-device-that-enforces-licenses-through/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/07/microsoft-files-patent-for-device-that-enforces-licenses-through/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/07/microsoft-files-patent-for-device-that-enforces-licenses-through/#comments Microsoft files patent for device that enforces licenses through visual surveillance

Microsoft has filed a patent for a system that could potentially use a camera to determine whether you're breaking its content-viewing rules or not. US Patent Application 20120278904 describes the ability to use a Kinect-like camera-enabled device for "continuously monitoring a number of users at a display device during the performance of [some] content," which basically means the camera would watch the faces of anyone watching a display showing licensed content (like a movie or a game), and then track those faces to see if the viewers had appropriately licensed it.

The patent lists a number of options for determining the validity of the possible viewers, including counting their number (as in, making sure only three people were able to see a movie), or actually identifying specific users (to make sure Julie isn't watching a movie that Mark was only licensed to see). The patent itself doesn't specifically mention Kinect, but it does mention the idea of a "gaming and media system" as well as "mobile devices" with the same capability.

Obviously, such a system would have some weaknesses (could you use a picture or a sculpture to spoof the camera?), and the patent states at the end that this is just one possible implementation of a setup like this. But Microsoft is apparently thinking about using Kinect's ability to recognize you for more than just throwing around spells and playing games. In the future, that camera may be used to figure out whether you're following the rules or not.

JoystiqMicrosoft files patent for device that enforces licenses through visual surveillance originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Nov 2012 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>camerakinectlicensingmicrosoftpatentusptoxboxWed, 07 Nov 2012 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gaikai sued over alleged patent infringement]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/11/gaikai-sued-over-alleged-patent-infringement/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/11/gaikai-sued-over-alleged-patent-infringement/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/11/gaikai-sued-over-alleged-patent-infringement/#comments A Delaware company called T5 Labs has filed suit against cloud-gaming service Gaikai for alleged patent infringement, putting the technology that underpins Gaikai's fancy cloud-computing/game-streaming wizardry under the legal microscope.

Specifically, T5 Labs claims that by "providing a system and methods of sharing a graphics processing unit (GPU) between a plurality of programs," Gaikai is "actively, knowingly and intentionally" using the technology covered by T5's patent for "Sharing a graphical processing unit between a plurality of programs."

Multiple programs using the same GPU may sound like something that every single computer does on a regular basis, but T5's patent actually covers a specific scenario involving servers, remote terminals and compression algorithms. No specific dollar amount is listed in the complaint, but T5 is seeking damages, attorney's fees and "a judgement permanently enjoining Gaikai from further infringement."

Gaikai has "no comment at this time" regarding the situation.

JoystiqGaikai sued over alleged patent infringement originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Oct 2012 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cloudcloud-gaminggaikailawsuitlegalmacpatentpcstreamingsuet5-labsUSPTOThu, 11 Oct 2012 19:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Namco trademark points to US release for JoJo's Bizarre Adventure: All Star Battle]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/15/namco-trademark-points-to-us-release-for-jojos-bizarre-adventur/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/15/namco-trademark-points-to-us-release-for-jojos-bizarre-adventur/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/15/namco-trademark-points-to-us-release-for-jojos-bizarre-adventur/#comments CyberConnect2's upcoming manga adaptation/fighting game JoJo's Bizarre Adventure: All Star Battle (not to be confused with Capcom's recently released JoJo's Bizarre Adventure HD on XBLA and PSN) may see the light of day on North American shores, should a recently filed trademark serve as any indication.

The trademark itself (Serial No. 85723902) was submitted by Namco Bandai and only covers the words "All Star Battle," which is interesting considering that the trademark for "JoJo's Bizarre Adventure" has been abandoned since 2010. At any rate, the trademark covers usage of the phrase in relation to computer games, arcade machines and other "amusement arcade services."

We're not willing to interpret those definitions as meaning that an arcade version of All Star Battle is in the works, but this trademark's existence does support the notion of a North American release. We've reached out to Namco Bandai for comment by freezing time and dropping a road roller in front of their offices.

JoystiqNamco trademark points to US release for JoJo's Bizarre Adventure: All Star Battle originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 15 Sep 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cyberconnect2jojos-bizarre-adventurejojos-bizarre-adventure-all-star-battlenamco-bandaiplaystationps3trademarkUSPTOSat, 15 Sep 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony patents method of turning TV ads into interactive mini-games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/23/sony-patents-method-of-turning-tv-ads-into-interactive-mini-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/23/sony-patents-method-of-turning-tv-ads-into-interactive-mini-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/23/sony-patents-method-of-turning-tv-ads-into-interactive-mini-game/#comments Sony patents method for turning commercials into social gamesSony holds the patent for turning television commercials into interactive video games, taking humanity one step closer a future resembling Wall-E, while the likelihood of Blade Runner fades to a distant, neon second. The patent describes one method of gaming as advertisement as a "commercial overlaid on frames of the television program allowing the user to play the game while the television program is displayed."

Sony's patent provides visuals of various implementation processes, some of which include using the PlayStation console itself, along with the PS Eye, the Move or DualShock controllers, or a microphone. The controllers would allow viewers to play mini-games designed to sell products while they entertain, and they would enable people to purchase items directly from the ad. One drawing shows someone ordering a pizza by using the Move to select a large "Buy" button, and another has someone voting for a character with the X, O, square and triangle buttons.

The patent also shows a microphone hooked up to the PlayStation console, enabling viewers to vocalize whether they want an action or romantic commercial. Another voice-input idea makes viewers yell out brand names to continue their shows, pictured above.

The patent appears to work with internet TVs or screens attached to network-enabled devices, such as the PlayStation. If you've yet to disable your cable and hook up your PC to an HD flatscreen, now may be the time - or maybe consider that Steam Big Picture box when it launches. They can take our TVs, but they'll never take our PCs.

Please scream "Joystiq!" to continue.

JoystiqSony patents method of turning TV ads into interactive mini-games originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Aug 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingBladeRunnercommercialfuturemovepatentplaystationps3SONYUSPTOWall-EThu, 23 Aug 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bethesda trademarks 'Hearthfire,' which is totally a thing from Skryim]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/21/bethesda-trademarks-hearthfire-which-is-totally-a-thing-from/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/21/bethesda-trademarks-hearthfire-which-is-totally-a-thing-from/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/21/bethesda-trademarks-hearthfire-which-is-totally-a-thing-from/#comments Bethesda trademarks 'Hearthfire,' which is totally a thing from SkryimUpdate: Please excuse us, but we've written about this before. Like, back in May. Sorry about that, y'all! Nothing to see here! Move right along!

When Skyrim's "Dawnguard" DLC was first outed by a trademark filing back in March, we knew little aside from the name - references to the Dawnguard could be found in Skyrim, but only vague ones. It wasn't even clear that the filing was for DLC at the time - nor is it clear today that a recently unearthed trademark filing by Bethesda parent company Zenimax Media for "Hearthfire" is Skyrim's next DLC.

But it sure smells like it. The term "Hearthfire" (or "Heartfire") correlates to the ninth month in The Elder Scrolls' world of Tamriel, as well as a set of books in the 2920 series. Bethesda is staying mum for now, telling VentureBeat that the studio, "does not comment on trademark filings." The filing was made back in May, so it's always possible that the idea has since passed.

The filing is definitely game software, per the description: "Computer game software for use with computers and video game consoles; downloadable computer game software offered via the internet and wireless devices." There's also a wholly unremarkable image alongside the trademark filing, seen above.

JoystiqBethesda trademarks 'Hearthfire,' which is totally a thing from Skryim originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Aug 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bethesda-game-studiosbethesda-softworksdlcdownloadable-contentelder-scrolls-5heart-fireheartfirehearth-firehearthfireskyrimthe-elder-scrolls-v-skyrimtrademarktrademark-filingunited-states-patent-and-trademark-officeusptozenimax-mediaTue, 21 Aug 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony abandons The Last Guardian trademark, can get it back]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/09/sony-abandons-the-last-guardian-trademark-can-get-it-back/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/09/sony-abandons-the-last-guardian-trademark-can-get-it-back/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/09/sony-abandons-the-last-guardian-trademark-can-get-it-back/#comments The Last Guardian trademark abandonedSony has abandoned the trademark for The Last Guardian, a game first teased by Team Ico in 2008 that has since been notoriously absent during subsequent conventions, productions and shows. The last we heard of The Last Guardian was when it didn't make an appearance at E3 this year. During the show, SCEA's Scott Rhode told us, "It just wasn't appropriate for us to give an update. That's just how it worked out."

The trademark was abandoned "because no Statement of Use or Extension Request [was] timely filed after Notice of Allowance was issued," the USPTO TARR report states. Sony may have unintentionally let the trademark lapse, and has two months to file a petition to retrieve the application, according to its notice of abandonment.

The Last Guardian trademark was issued in January 2010, meaning Sony has until January 2013 to prove "use in commerce" and retain the mark, according to sleuth superannuation. "Use in commerce" would mean a completed, marketable game, which doesn't exist, as far as we know. Sony can of course register The Last Guardian in a new trademark if this one lapses.

Regardless of whether Sony intentionally abandoned the trademark, accidentally letting it lapse would seem to indicate a lack of focus on The Last Guardian, substantiated by the lack of content shown to the public.

JoystiqSony abandons The Last Guardian trademark, can get it back originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Aug 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abandonedplaystationps3SONYTeam-IcoThe-Last-GuardianTrademarkUSPTOThu, 09 Aug 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony trademarks 'Rain,' 'Until Dawn' in EU and US before Gamescom]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/07/sony-trademarks-rain-until-dawn-in-eu-and-us-before-gamesco/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/07/sony-trademarks-rain-until-dawn-in-eu-and-us-before-gamesco/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/07/sony-trademarks-rain-until-dawn-in-eu-and-us-before-gamesco/#comments Sony trademarks 'Rain,' 'Until Dawn' in EU and US before GamescomSony is either preparing a few unannounced IPs for the public eye, or it's really concerned about the weather at Gamescom next week. Sony has trademarked "Rain" and "Until Dawn" in the US and Europe, both as "computer game software." The above image was included with the Rain filing via OHIM, the European trademark system.

Until Dawn was registered on OHIM in May and on USPTO in August; Rain hit both OHIM and USPTO on July 30. No additional information is provided in the filings, but OnlySP links the Rain trademark with a gif depicting an unknown PlayStation quick-time-event (mostly because it happens to be raining in the scene). The image in Rain's filing takes a more Limbo approach than the gif suggests, but for now any speculation is just that.

Sony's Gamescom press conference is on Tuesday, August 14, and the trademark timing seems right for a reveal.

JoystiqSony trademarks 'Rain,' 'Until Dawn' in EU and US before Gamescom originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 Aug 2012 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europeGamescom-2012ohimplaystationplaystation-vitaps3RainSONYTrademarkuntil-dawnusUSPTOvitaTue, 07 Aug 2012 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Kinect goes mobile, gets movie editing in Microsoft patent filings]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/03/kinect-goes-mobile-gets-movie-editing-in-microsoft-patent-filin/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/03/kinect-goes-mobile-gets-movie-editing-in-microsoft-patent-filin/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/03/kinect-goes-mobile-gets-movie-editing-in-microsoft-patent-filin/#comments Kinect goes mobile, gets movie editing in Microsoft patent filingsFor all Kinect does, it's got some pretty glaring flaws. For one, it's bound by that silly USB cable to the back of the Xbox 360. Good thinking, Microsoft!

Thankfully, Microsoft also finds Kinect's tethered nature troubling, and is working on a mobile solution. The company filed a patent application this week that allows a Kinect-esque device (though the word "Kinect" is never directly used ... come on) to capture and update "parameters which specify how the mobile depth camera has moved." In other words, it's a Kinect that can - in real time, at 20 frames per second - reestablish where it's being positioned in a room. Neat! We can already see the possibilities for motion control and ... uh ... maybe augmented reality stuff?

Beyond mobile Kinecting, Microsoft is also interested in movie editing, filing for a "living room movie creation" patent as well. And given that the Kinect is Microsoft's primary living room camera connected to a computer, this one sounds like it applies there as well. The filing says "movies can be directed, captured, and edited using a system that includes a depth camera," and that various real life objects can be implemented "as virtual props." Said filming system also allows for editing after shooting, should your living room movie not come out perfect in the first take.

JoystiqKinect goes mobile, gets movie editing in Microsoft patent filings originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Aug 2012 09:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kinectmicrosoftpatentpatent-filingunited-states-patent-and-trade-organizationusptoxboxFri, 03 Aug 2012 09:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple patents NFC tech for controlling gadgets with iThings]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/26/apple-patents-nfc-tech-for-controlling-gadgets-with-ithings/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/26/apple-patents-nfc-tech-for-controlling-gadgets-with-ithings/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/26/apple-patents-nfc-tech-for-controlling-gadgets-with-ithings/#comments Apple patents NFC tech for controlling gadgets with iThingsApple has been issued a patent (this one) that outlines virtually every conceivable way in which an iProduct equipped with NFC (Near Field Communication) could wirelessly interface and control a similarly NFC-equipped gadget, doodad or whatsit.

Many examples are given in the documentation -- everything from using your iPhone to control your house's thermostat to its automated sprinkler system -- but we're mostly interested in its applications as a gaming interface, of which two main methods are shown.

First, figure 44 shows how an iPhone can be linked with a familiar looking NFC-equipped controller by tapping the two devices together. Once paired, the iPhone can then be used to play the game rather than the controller itself, via on-screen controls. The phone recognizes the game being played (in this case, Prince of Persia) and displays three controller layout options: Classic, Custom or Game Developer Recommended. Selecting one of the three options causes a button layout to appear on the screen.

In the other gaming-centric example given, the iPhone is shown skipping the controller and interfacing directly with a gaming console via infrared, wireless internet or NFC. If NFC is present, tapping the iDevice to the console initiates the link; alternatively an RFID tag or QR code may be substituted to establish the connection.

For the system to be functional, everyone involved in every step of each device and piece of software will need to be on board. Console manufacturers will have to put NFC chips in their wares, game developers will have to code iOS device support into their products, and Apple themselves will have to release a version of iOS that actually does all this stuff.

Gallery: Apple NFC patents

JoystiqApple patents NFC tech for controlling gadgets with iThings originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Jul 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleiosipadiphonemacmobileNFCpatentpatentsRFIDUSPTOThu, 26 Jul 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Expiring trademarks suggest trouble for Brothers in Arms: Furious 4]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/expiring-trademarks-suggest-trouble-for-brothers-in-arms-furiou/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/expiring-trademarks-suggest-trouble-for-brothers-in-arms-furiou/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/expiring-trademarks-suggest-trouble-for-brothers-in-arms-furiou/#comments ImageBrothers in Arms: Furious 4 may be in trouble. Some lapsing trademarks for the its title intimate the Gearbox-developed game is all but abandoned (or the name is changing), and our inquiries into Gearbox Software have yet to be answered. "We don't have anything to share at this point in time," an Ubisoft representative told Joystiq.

Brothers in Arms: Furious 4 was announced at last year's E3 ... and then that was it. We didn't hear a single thing after that preliminary announcement, even though the game was given a tentative 2012 launch window. Right now a cancelation isn't confirmed, but it's looking like these four will have something to be really furious about soon enough.

JoystiqExpiring trademarks suggest trouble for Brothers in Arms: Furious 4 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 May 2012 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brothers-in-arms-the-furious-4gearboxgearbox-softwaremicrosoftpcplaystationps3ubisoftusptoxboxFri, 18 May 2012 20:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii U patent shows off Wiimote-to-WiiPad pointing and dragging]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/wii-u-patent-shows-off-wiimote-to-wiipad-pointing-and-dragging/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/wii-u-patent-shows-off-wiimote-to-wiipad-pointing-and-dragging/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/wii-u-patent-shows-off-wiimote-to-wiipad-pointing-and-dragging/#comments ImageA patent filed by Nintendo in October of last year has just surfaced online, suggesting a neat feature for the Wii U. The patent outlines a feature in which the player can use the Wiimote to grab things from the television and transport them over to the Wii U tablet.

In the example provided, the player is under attack from a UFO and uses the Wiimote to move a character from the TV to the safety of the tablet. Sounds like an interesting feature, though we're not looking forward to taking a bath in radioactive liquid so we can grow that extra arm to use all this stuff.

JoystiqWii U patent shows off Wiimote-to-WiiPad pointing and dragging originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 May 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nintendopatentusptowii-uwiipadFri, 18 May 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft patents pressure-sensitive controller that identifies who's holding it]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/microsoft-patents-pressure-sensitive-controller-that-identifies/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/microsoft-patents-pressure-sensitive-controller-that-identifies/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/microsoft-patents-pressure-sensitive-controller-that-identifies/#comments ImageIris scans are old hat. The future of biometric identification is in registering and identifying a person's unique hand pressure profile - at least, that's what someone at Microsoft believes. The megalithic multimedia mogul has been granted a patent for "personalization using a hand-pressure signature," specifically in conjunction with game console controllers.

A device outfitted with this technology would include internal memory and a processing unit. Once gripped by a user, the device would register the pressure exerted by the user's mits and compare that to a stored database of recognized pressure profiles. Once a match is found, the device (in this case a 360) knows who is holding the controller and can then display advertisements information appropriately. Despite this patent being specific to controllers, we could see the usefulness of this technology in cell phones, tv remotes, or essentially any hand-held electronic device, should it ever come to fruition.

JoystiqMicrosoft patents pressure-sensitive controller that identifies who's holding it originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 May 2012 22:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biometricsmicrosoftpatentUSPTOxboxWed, 09 May 2012 22:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Lucasfilm applies for 'Star Wars 1313' trademark]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/lucasfilm-applies-for-star-wars-1313-trademark/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/lucasfilm-applies-for-star-wars-1313-trademark/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/lucasfilm-applies-for-star-wars-1313-trademark/#comments ImageA strange new trademark application by Lucasfilm portends a new multimedia Star Wars franchise, including video games. The company filed for the name "Star Wars 1313" for use with video games, as well as toys, trading cards, sticker books, pencil sharpeners, online social networking services, and anything else that can possibly bear the Star Wars logo.

The document contains no indication of what "Star Wars 1313" means; we knew the series was set "a long time ago," but don't know if that translates to 700 years in Earth time. However, a quick Wookieepedia search reveals "CT-1313" as a name used by Boba Fett in a Star Wars novel. So it could be a Boba Fett-focused thing. Dengar's still waiting for his big break.

JoystiqLucasfilm applies for 'Star Wars 1313' trademark originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 07 May 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lucasartslucasfilmstar-warsstar-wars-1313trademarkusptoMon, 07 May 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Miyamoto's DS patent offers upgraded tourist hunting techniques]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/06/miyamotos-ds-patent-offers-upgraded-tourist-hunting-techniques/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/06/miyamotos-ds-patent-offers-upgraded-tourist-hunting-techniques/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/06/miyamotos-ds-patent-offers-upgraded-tourist-hunting-techniques/#commentsImage
The DS Lite could see society's next great advancement in GPS technology, at least in tourist-heavy areas such as museums and haunted-home expeditions, a patent from Nintendo's Shigeru Miyamoto suggests.

The patent describes a system where an overhead grid of infrared "positional information transmitters" reads a user's DS to light up floor patterns and potential walkways. The user can then pick which route he'd like to take, reading tourist facts along the way.

Nintendo has already infiltrated the museum scene with the 3DS giving guided tours in the Louvre, and it's doing a pretty great job, from what we hear. There's no guarantee that a patent will translate to an actual product, but the thousands of infrared beams hovering over the Mona Lisa fulfills a few of our own spy fantasies, so we'll hope this one works out in some way.

JoystiqMiyamoto's DS patent offers upgraded tourist hunting techniques originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 06 May 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdsmuseumnintendopatentshigeru-miyamototourtourismUSPTOSun, 06 May 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft patent brings us one step closer to real-life Deus Ex]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/microsoft-patent-brings-us-one-step-closer-to-real-life-deus-ex/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/microsoft-patent-brings-us-one-step-closer-to-real-life-deus-ex/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/microsoft-patent-brings-us-one-step-closer-to-real-life-deus-ex/#comments In the Deus Ex universe, technology has advanced to the point where human beings are able to augment themselves with technology, enhancing their abilities and giving themselves raspy, chain-smoking truck driver voices. It's what came to mind after our pals at Engadget discovered a Microsoft patent for an EMG (electromyography) device.

The patent calls it the "Wearable Electromyography-Based Controller," which would potentially allow users to control their devices (smartphone, computer and the like) through movement - the device would monitor muscle movement, either through a wireless or wired connection. The patent suggests a variety of different devices on Microsoft's mind: the armband seen above; a shirt (smartshirt, we like to call it); and even a pair of sunglasses, though they appear less badass and expensive than Adam Jensen's or, heck, even the shades JC Denton rocks in the original Deus Ex.

We just hope one of those EMG devices has a built-in niceness chip, to prevent future cyber-people from freaking out over tiny problems.

JoystiqMicrosoft patent brings us one step closer to real-life Deus Ex originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 May 2012 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>controllerdeus-ex-human-revolutionemgemg-devicemicrosoftpatentusptoWearable-Electromyography-Based-ControllerThu, 03 May 2012 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Just look at this PS Move steering wheel patent]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/just-look-at-this-ps-move-steering-wheel-patent/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/just-look-at-this-ps-move-steering-wheel-patent/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/just-look-at-this-ps-move-steering-wheel-patent/#comments ImageAt first glance, it looks like Sony's answer to the Wii Wheel. But the patent proposing the above device has one odd feature: controller grips on the side of the wheel, which houses a PlayStation Move, that extend outward.

The patent - it's described as "ornamental design for a video game controller peripheral" - was originally filed in April of last year and recently surfaced online. As is the case with many patents, this is less of a guaranteed product and more of snapshot of some of the ideas that went through a peripheral designer's head.

JoystiqJust look at this PS Move steering wheel patent originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Apr 2012 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>movepatentplaystationplaystation-moveps3trademarkusptoThu, 19 Apr 2012 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo patents handheld game emulation on 'low-capability' systems]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/nintendo-patents-handheld-game-emulation-on-low-capability-sys/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/nintendo-patents-handheld-game-emulation-on-low-capability-sys/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/nintendo-patents-handheld-game-emulation-on-low-capability-sys/#comments ImageNintendo has been awarded a US patent for emulation of handheld video games on other platforms, something that may not impress anyone playing a Game Boy game through the 3DS Virtual Console right now.

Nintendo applied for the patent back in 2003, for technology to emulate a handheld game system (examples given: Game Boy, Game Boy Color, Game Boy Advance) on low-powered systems like cell phones and displays in airplane seat backs.

Nintendo may have been exploring options like in-airplane Game Boy games (SNES-based systems were a staple in airplanes for years), but it's much more likely that the company was attempting to get a footing from which to defend its IPs against other, unauthorized emulation.

JoystiqNintendo patents handheld game emulation on 'low-capability' systems originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>emulationgame-boypatentusptoWed, 18 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Zenimax files 'FUS RO DAH' trademarks, USPTO cowers behind desk]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/zenimax-files-fus-ro-dah-trademarks-uspto-cowers-behind-desk/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/zenimax-files-fus-ro-dah-trademarks-uspto-cowers-behind-desk/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/zenimax-files-fus-ro-dah-trademarks-uspto-cowers-behind-desk/#comments
There's little we like more than some good ol' fashioned wind shouting, Dragonborn-style, and it looks like Bethesda Softworks parent company Zenimax Media agrees with us. The company recently filed a sextet of trademark applications with the United States Patent and Trademark Office for the term "Fus Roh Dah" - a trio of words that originate with Skyrim.

In particular, the filings pertain to everything from the typical computer game trademark to a variety of merchandising and "entertainment services." Though it's fun to fantasize about the ridiculous merchandizing possibilities, it's likely that Bethesda's parent company is just locking up said trademarks against potential profiteers. Now, if you'll excuse us, we'll get back to dreaming about "Fus Roh Dah"-themed sporting equipment (covered by filing number 85589296).

JoystiqZenimax files 'FUS RO DAH' trademarks, USPTO cowers behind desk originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bethesda-softworkselder-scrolls-5fus-ro-dahfus-roh-dahskyrimthe-elder-scrolls-v-skyrimtrademarkusptozenimaxzenimax-mediaWed, 11 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony patents filed for Kinect-like PS Eye camera, backwards compatibility adapter]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/sony-patents-filed-for-kinect-like-ps-eye-camera-backwards-comp/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/sony-patents-filed-for-kinect-like-ps-eye-camera-backwards-comp/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/sony-patents-filed-for-kinect-like-ps-eye-camera-backwards-comp/#comments A new patent suggests Sony is considering -- or considered at one time -- its own take on a 3D depth-sensing camera. The patent in question was filed by Dr. Richard Marks, the inventor of the PS Eye and PlayStation Move, back in October.

The filing calls for "a real-time three-dimensional interactive environment using a depth sensing device" that players would move in front of and interact with. "Embodiments of the present invention provide real-time interactive gaming experiences for users. For example, users can interact with various computer-generated objects in real-time." That sounds awfully close to Kinect, doesn't it?

Another patent suggests Sony is also considering a separate set of hardware that would allow for better backwards compatibility. Rather than provide an on-board solution, this would plug into your game console and provide the hardware needed to properly run an older game. (Sound familiar?) Patents are quite a few steps removed from reality, but they might just give us a glimpse at how we might play our games in the future, whether they're new or old.

JoystiqSony patents filed for Kinect-like PS Eye camera, backwards compatibility adapter originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backwards-compatibilitykinectmicrosoftmovepatentplaystationplaystation-eyeps-eyeps3usptoTue, 21 Feb 2012 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA['GTA TV' and 'Rockstar TV' trademarked by Take Two]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/gta-tv-and-rockstar-tv-trademarked-by-take-two/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/gta-tv-and-rockstar-tv-trademarked-by-take-two/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/gta-tv-and-rockstar-tv-trademarked-by-take-two/#comments As OXM UK has discovered, Take-Two has filed trademark applications for "Rockstar TV" and GTA TV" within the past week at the United States Patent and Trademark Office, though neither has been approved just yet (nor will either be until an examining attorney is assigned "approximately three months after filing date").

Each trademark filing features identical product descriptions, denoting the filings as for (breath), "computer game programs and software; animated motion picture films featuring entertainment, namely, action, adventure, dramatic, comedic, children's and documentary themes; pre-recorded video discs and other pre-recorded digital and electronic media in the field of live action programs, motion pictures, or animation featuring entertainment, namely, action, adventure, dramatic, comedic, children's and documentary themes."

Additionally, each filing was assigned "pseudo marks" by the USPTO, referring to the "TV" part of each as "television" -- pseudo marks are not seen as definitive, but as identification marks for easing USPTO database searches. In other words, it's possible "TV" stands for something else, but we're betting against that. We've reached out to Rockstar and Take-Two for comment, but have yet to hear back as of publishing.

Joystiq'GTA TV' and 'Rockstar TV' trademarked by Take Two originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gta-tvrockstar-gamesrockstar-tvtake-twotake-two-interactivetrademarktrademark-filingusptoTue, 21 Feb 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Blizzard taking Valve to court over 'DOTA' trademark]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/10/blizzard-taking-valve-to-court-over-dota-trademark/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/10/blizzard-taking-valve-to-court-over-dota-trademark/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/10/blizzard-taking-valve-to-court-over-dota-trademark/#comments Which giant company has the rights to the fan-created, community-promoted word "Dota?" That's up to the courts now. Blizzard has filed a Notice of Opposition with the US Patent and Trademark Office, seeking to block Valve's registration of the word. The word has been used exclusively in reference to a (mod of a) Blizzard game, the document explains. "By virtue of that use, the DOTA mark has become firmly associated in the mind of consumers with Blizzard, including to signify a highly popular scenario or variant of one of Blizzard's best-selling computer games, Warcraft III."

Valve, the document goes on to claim, hasn't used the word for anything yet. There's also a lot of history of Warcraft III, which is a really strange thing to read in a legal document. The case is in discovery now, with pretrial procedures taking place throughout this year and into next. We hope this court proceeding doesn't delay either of the games, as those companies are quite capable of delaying their games on their own.

JoystiqBlizzard taking Valve to court over 'DOTA' trademark originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzard-dotadotadota-2legalpctrademarkunited-states-patent-and-trademark-officeusptovalveFri, 10 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Old Microsoft patent details gaming console with DVR functionality]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/29/old-microsoft-patent-details-gaming-console-with-dvr-functionali/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/29/old-microsoft-patent-details-gaming-console-with-dvr-functionali/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/29/old-microsoft-patent-details-gaming-console-with-dvr-functionali/#comments Can you imagine the original Xbox 360, with its 20GB hard drive, being used as a DVR? We really can't see it working, but in January of 2007 Microsoft was down with the idea.

Patents discovered by Tom's Guide detail plans for a gaming console similar to the Xbox 360 with a "digital video recorder (DVR) application running alongside a television client component." In the alternate reality where Microsoft actually followed through with this patent, the console in question would be able to directly record content even when playing games or if "the gaming console is turned off."

Of course today the Xbox 360 can stream content in a number of ways, but does not allow for direct recording to the hard drive. Now that the ceiling for storage has been raised on the platform we'd be on board with such functionality, but if this languishing patent is any indication Microsoft is fine with the current state of things.

JoystiqOld Microsoft patent details gaming console with DVR functionality originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Dec 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>digital-video-recorderdvrmicrosoftpatentusptoxboxThu, 29 Dec 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Disney trademarks Castle of Illusion, but M-I-C-K-E-why?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/05/disney-trademarks-castle-of-illusion-but-m-i-c-k-e-why/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/05/disney-trademarks-castle-of-illusion-but-m-i-c-k-e-why/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/05/disney-trademarks-castle-of-illusion-but-m-i-c-k-e-why/#comments Disney put a trademark on the term Castle of Illusion, portending a new release Disney has put in a new trademark request for the term "Castle of Illusion," which presumably refers to the old Sega Genesis game, Castle of Illusion starring Mickey Mouse. The trademark is specifically targeted at video game software.

We're not sure what Disney intends to use this trademark for, if anything. It could be a brand new release also set in the castle that Mickey platformed through while trying to save Minnie, or it could be a re-release of the old game on a new platform, like Virtual Console release or even iOS. Whatever its release plans, Disney is apparently laying out the legal groundwork for something.

JoystiqDisney trademarks Castle of Illusion, but M-I-C-K-E-why? originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Oct 2011 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>castle-of-illusioncastle-of-illusion-starring-mickey-mousedisneyrumorsega-genesistrademarkusptoWed, 05 Oct 2011 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft trademarks 'Iron Brigade' for video game use]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/03/microsoft-trademarks-iron-brigade-for-video-game-use/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/03/microsoft-trademarks-iron-brigade-for-video-game-use/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/03/microsoft-trademarks-iron-brigade-for-video-game-use/#comments Either Microsoft is planning on releasing a new military shooter, or it's really getting into organizing its heavy metals into tightly regimented platoons. The company recently filed a trademark with the USPTO for computer game software titled "Iron Brigade," a possible reference to a Union army unit which served during the American Civil War.

As tech news site Fusible points out, though more modern units share the name, the trademark lines up nicely with the 150th anniversary of the Civil War. Then again, logic can't always be applied to the naming of games; we could just as easily be talking about a future robot dating simulator or something.

JoystiqMicrosoft trademarks 'Iron Brigade' for video game use originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Aug 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>american-civil-warcivil-warmicrosoftpctrademarkusptowarxboxWed, 03 Aug 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA['Vidrhythm' trademarked by Harmonix [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/vidrhythm-trademarked-by-harmonix/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/vidrhythm-trademarked-by-harmonix/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/vidrhythm-trademarked-by-harmonix/#comments Harmonix has filed an "intent to use" trademark application for Vidrhythm with the United States Patent and Trademark Office. As Siliconera notes, the independent developer has said it's looking down many development avenues, so it's not clear what Vidrhythm may be. Go ahead and place your bets.

Officially, Harmonix is currently working to high-kick Dance Central 2 out the door and continues to pump out Rock Band DLC at a weekly beat. We've contacted the developer for any further details on Vidrhythm.

Update: Harmonix communications director John Drake informed Joystiq: "Nothing to add at this time, other than to confirm that it is a project we're working on."

Joystiq'Vidrhythm' trademarked by Harmonix [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jul 2011 10:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Harmonixmicrosoftnintendoplaystationps3TrademarkUSPTOvidrhythmwiixboxWed, 06 Jul 2011 10:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Patent points at PlayStation Move-compatible PSP Go dock]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/23/patent-points-at-playstation-move-compatible-psp-go-dock/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/23/patent-points-at-playstation-move-compatible-psp-go-dock/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/23/patent-points-at-playstation-move-compatible-psp-go-dock/#comments A patent filed by Sony back in November 2009 (and recently published) with the USPTO seems to indicate that the company was once exploring methods of integrating its colorfully-tipped Move controllers into its handheld video games. The patent in question is for a dock which, in an attached illustration, fits a folded-shut PSP Go. The dock includes a built-in camera which functions like a PlayStation Eye, detecting Move controllers in a narrow radius in front of the dock.

If Sony's actually looking into developing this peripheral, it's far more likely that they're doing so for the NGP rather than the nearly-defunct PSP Go. If it is a real thing, though, it's definitely going to bring up some intriguing metaphysical questions. For instance: Is a handheld gaming device still a handheld gaming device when it's not hand-held?

JoystiqPatent points at PlayStation Move-compatible PSP Go dock originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 May 2011 21:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dockngppatentperipheralsplaystationplaystation-moveplaystation-vitapspsonyusptovitaMon, 23 May 2011 21:35:00 EST<![CDATA[New logo, trademark lend credence to Bungie 'Destiny' project]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/19/new-logo-trademark-lend-credence-to-bungie-destiny-project/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/19/new-logo-trademark-lend-credence-to-bungie-destiny-project/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/19/new-logo-trademark-lend-credence-to-bungie-destiny-project/#comments Doing the detective work of any good fansite, HBO.org has turned up more evidence of the rumored "Destiny" MMOFPS in development at Bungie Studios / Bungie Aerospace / whatever Bungie wants to call itself. The site discovered that a company named "Podophobia Entertainment," formed by Bungie head Harold Ryan and music composer Marty O'Donnell, had registered a trademark for "Destiny" with the image seen above. The filing is classified under "Computer game software; Computer game software downloadable from a global computer network; Video game software; Virtual reality game software."

"Destiny" is just the latest in a series of filings by the Halo dev studio, most recently incorporating "Bungie Aerospace" and trademarking "Crimson" for use with "Computer game software downloadable from a global computer network; Computer game software for use on mobile and cellular phones; Downloadable computer game software via a global computer network and wireless devices." As you might expect, Bungie has remained quiet on the filings and has yet to respond to our requests for comment.

JoystiqNew logo, trademark lend credence to Bungie 'Destiny' project originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 May 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionbungiebungie-studiosdestinyharold-ryanmarty-odonnellmmofpspodophobia-entertainmenttrademarkusptoThu, 19 May 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Bungie Aerospace Corporation trademarks 'Crimson,' mystery continues]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/12/bungie-aerospace-corporation-trademarks-crimson-mystery-conti/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/12/bungie-aerospace-corporation-trademarks-crimson-mystery-conti/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/12/bungie-aerospace-corporation-trademarks-crimson-mystery-conti/#comments Bungie's trademark frenzy continues with the discovery of a trademark filing for "Crimson" within the past several days. GameSpot UK spotted the listing on the US Patent and Trademark Office website, which denotes "Crimson" as being "Computer game software downloadable from a global computer network; Computer game software for use on mobile and cellular phones; Downloadable computer game software via a global computer network and wireless devices." Presumably, whatever "Crimson" is won't be all three of those things.

Interestingly, the filing applies to newly incorporated Bungie Aerospace (rather than Bungie Studios proper), while Bungie's previous trademark applications were all filed by a proxy corporation (as to hide their origins). As with previous reports, we've contacted Bungie for a comment, but don't expect to hear much back. Nor do we expect to hear anything at E3, as the studio has specifically said it won't be attending this year's show.

JoystiqBungie Aerospace Corporation trademarks 'Crimson,' mystery continues originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 May 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bungiebungie-aerospacebungie-aerospace-corporationbungie-studioscrimsoncrimson-steam-piratestrademarkusptoThu, 12 May 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft patent pictures networked, personalized profiles for Kinect-like system]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/22/microsoft-patent-pictures-networked-personalized-profiles-for-k/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/22/microsoft-patent-pictures-networked-personalized-profiles-for-k/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/22/microsoft-patent-pictures-networked-personalized-profiles-for-k/#comments A newly published patent application, submitted by Microsoft to the USPTO back in October 2009, describes the personalization of a "gesture-based system" -- presumably, what would become Kinect -- through detailed user profiles that could be stored on a network. It's anyone's guess if this is a glimpse at where Kinect profiles are going (through potential updates) or what they could have been.

The patent outlines a "gesture profile" that could record user preferences for various tasks and system commands. "For example," the application proposes, "a user may prefer to use a checkmark to indicate 'checked' while others may use an X. A user may have a different manner for performing the gesture, such as quicker or more exaggerated motions." Over time, "the system may more fully identify and/or distinguish the user's gestures, thus providing more accuracy and speed for gesture recognition."

The proposal also suggests that such a profile could be "roaming in a network." In other words, the user's gesture profile could be connected to any number of potential devices (as pictured). Networked profiles, too, good be updated by the system to make "intelligent" changes to an application's default gesture data based on the users' region. As the patent writers warn, "Different cultures may use similar gestures to impart markedly different meanings."

"For instance, an American user who wishes to tell another user to 'look' or 'use his eyes' may put his index finger on his head close to the distal side of his eye," the writers continue. "However, to an Italian user, this gesture may be interpreted as a reference to the mafia." And that's always awkward when you're playing with that shady, old Italian guy.

JoystiqMicrosoft patent pictures networked, personalized profiles for Kinect-like system originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Apr 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gesturekinectmicrosoftnetworkpatentprofileusptoxboxFri, 22 Apr 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[OnLive calls T5 Labs claim to key game streaming patent 'irrelevant']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/onlive-calls-t5-labs-claim-to-key-game-streaming-patent-irrelev/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/onlive-calls-t5-labs-claim-to-key-game-streaming-patent-irrelev/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/onlive-calls-t5-labs-claim-to-key-game-streaming-patent-irrelev/#comments OnLive had supposedly nailed down the patent it needed to run its cloud-based gaming service (quite successfully so far, from all reports), but a new challenger is claiming otherwise. A company named T5 Labs now says it has been awarded a patent that predates OnLive's registration and gives it control over the fundamental tech behind cloud gaming. OnLive's patent was originally filed in December of 2002, but T5's was filed in March of that year, so, if the two patents do in fact cover the same tech, T5 would appear to have precedence.

An OnLive spokesperson tells Joystiq that the company has examined both patent applications after being contacted by T5 head Graham Clemie and "saw no relevance whatsoever to OnLive and told him so. We are approached by people with irrelevant patents all the time. We are highly confident in our own patent portfolio, and have no further comment."

Things seem fairly cut and dry from OnLive's point of view. T5 only says so far that it is "deciding whether to commence a procedure in the U.S. Patent Office known as an 'interference,'" which would establish the correct patent ownership. We'll see what -- if anything -- comes of that.

JoystiqOnLive calls T5 Labs claim to key game streaming patent 'irrelevant' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Feb 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cloudcloud-gaminggame-streamingmaconlivepatentpcstreamingt5-labstechnologyusptoTue, 15 Feb 2011 20:30:00 EST