Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Viacom ordered to pay Harmonix several trucks full of money]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/27/viacom-ordered-to-pay-harmonix-several-trucks-full-of-money/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/27/viacom-ordered-to-pay-harmonix-several-trucks-full-of-money/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/27/viacom-ordered-to-pay-harmonix-several-trucks-full-of-money/#comments When Viacom sold developer Harmonix in November of 2010 for $50, it was really only the beginning of the drama to come. Almost exactly a year ago, ex-shareholders in Harmonix prior to Viacom's buyout of the music game developer sued the conglomerate for failing to pay performance based bonuses, which were agreed upon when Viacom bought the company back in 2006. Then, earlier this year, Viacom sued those same stockholders for $131 million for "contractual overpayment." With us so far? Well, take a deep breath. It gets better.

That lawsuit triggered a mandatory arbitration clause in the original contract, and now Viacom has revealed to the LA Times that the private arbitrator in question has ordered the company to pay the former Harmonix shareholders $383 million.

The story is still developing, and this isn't the last you'll hear of it: Viacom has filed in a Delaware Court to have the judgment overturned, because of "improperly excluded" evidence and testimony.

JoystiqViacom ordered to pay Harmonix several trucks full of money originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 Dec 2011 19:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>harmonixharmonix-music-systemslawsuitlegalRock-BandviacomTue, 27 Dec 2011 19:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Viacom suing former Harmonix stockholders for over $131 million]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/viacom-suing-former-harmonix-stockholders-for-over-131-million/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/viacom-suing-former-harmonix-stockholders-for-over-131-million/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/viacom-suing-former-harmonix-stockholders-for-over-131-million/#comments Viacom is suing a group of former Harmonix stockholders, seeking a refund of over $131 million that it paid out, which it calls a "contractual overpayment." According to court documents, Viacom paid stockholders a total of $149,770,149 in 2007, based on an estimate of earnings; it then said that the real amount due was $131 million less than that, and asked for the remainder back, claiming that the payments were made "on account."

Harmonix shareholders brought their own suit against Viacom last year on a related topic. They actually claimed Viacom owed more in earn-out payments from the sale of Rock Band games. Both parties can't be right!

JoystiqViacom suing former Harmonix stockholders for over $131 million originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Sep 2011 18:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>harmonixlawsuitmicrosoftnintendoplaystationps3psprock-bandRock-Band-3sonyviacomwiixboxTue, 20 Sep 2011 18:48:00 EST<![CDATA['Colbert Quest,' and The Colbert Report games that could be]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/12/colbert-quest-and-the-colbert-report-games-that-could-be/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/12/colbert-quest-and-the-colbert-report-games-that-could-be/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/12/colbert-quest-and-the-colbert-report-games-that-could-be/#comments I don't know about you folks, but I'd love to see a Tek Jansen video game. Thankfully, so would Prithvi Virasinghe, creative director at Comedy Central's internal game studio, the newly minted 345 Games. Virasinghe told me during an interview earlier this week that Tek Jansen, and the show "Colbert Report" from which it originates, are prime among his choices for a future game. But only if Mr. Colbert is into it, of course.

"I've honestly tried to do this many, many times," he said of concepts for a Colbert-themed game. "One of the ideas we had for Colbert was we wanted to do 'Colbert Quest,' which was kinda like an homage to the Police Quest or Space Quest games." Apparently his team at 345 even went as far as to put together a "design treatment" for "Colbert Quest," which he detailed by saying, "You're sort of in this world that's humor-based, that's kind of situational and quest-based, and it would have Colbert as some sort of overlord of this domain."

Unfortunately, "Colbert Quest" only made it so far before it was shot down by Comedy Central higher-ups. But while that specific concept may be out, Virasinghe isn't giving up so easily on a Colbert game. "He does have this other character, Tek Jansen, which would really make sense. There's so much stuff we could do with Tek -- if I got my hands on Tek, I'd have a ball."

Of course, all of this is dependent on how well 345 Games does with its current project, a game adaptation of monster-themed sitcom "Ugly Americans" set to launch later this summer. "Hopefully this game does well, it creates some breathing room for us to think a little bigger, and maybe even attract the Colberts into wanting to do something," Virasinghe explained.

So, what about it Stephen? You're on notice!

Joystiq'Colbert Quest,' and The Colbert Report games that could be originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Jul 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>345-gamescomedy-centralprithvi-virasinghestephen-colberttek-jansenthe-colbert-reportviacomTue, 12 Jul 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Deadliest Warrior: Legends to pulverize PSN on July 26]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/11/deadliest-warrior-legends-to-pulverize-psn-on-july-26/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/11/deadliest-warrior-legends-to-pulverize-psn-on-july-26/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/11/deadliest-warrior-legends-to-pulverize-psn-on-july-26/#comments Deadliest Warrior: Legends may be old (spiked) hat for Xbox 360 owners, but for those of us with access only to a PS3, the game has yet to arrive. That's all about to change, as 345 Games tells Joystiq that its latest release will head to the PlayStation Network Store on July 26, pointy blade-equipped staff and all.

Like its XBLA launch, Deadliest Warrior: Legends will run you $10 when it arrives in the coming weeks. No explanation was offered for the disparity in launch between 360 and PS3, but we're told Sun Tzu sends his sincerest apologies.

JoystiqDeadliest Warrior: Legends to pulverize PSN on July 26 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Jul 2011 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>345-gamesdeadliest-warrior-legendsmtv-gamesplaystationplaystation-networkplaystation-network-storeplaystation-storeps3psnq3-2011release-datespike-tvviacomMon, 11 Jul 2011 16:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: MTV Games shut down]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/03/mtv-games-shut-down/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/03/mtv-games-shut-down/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/03/mtv-games-shut-down/#comments MCV has reported that MTV Games has officially closed its doors. The site reports that MTV Games' international office was closed on Wednesday and "only a handful of financial staff remain in the New York office to collect or reconcile any outstanding receivables." The news comes in the wake of the recent sale of Rock Band and Dance Central developer Harmonix.

MTV Games parent company Viacom is currently involved in an ongoing legal battle with Harmonix. The developer accuses Viacom of avoiding the payment of performance-based bonuses, a claim that Viacom denies. We've reached out to MTV for comment.

[Update 2/7: We heard back from an MTV spokesperson, who told us, "MTV Games has ceased its publishing operations but has not been completely dissolved." Huh, wonder what that means. We'll let you know if MTV suddenly becomes more forthcoming.]

JoystiqReport: MTV Games shut down originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Feb 2011 17:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>harmonixmicrosoftmobilemtv-gamesnintendoplaystationps3viacomwiixboxThu, 03 Feb 2011 17:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Harmonix buyers pay $49.99, accept company liabilities]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/04/report-harmonix-buyers-pay-49-99-accept-company-liabilities/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/04/report-harmonix-buyers-pay-49-99-accept-company-liabilities/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/04/report-harmonix-buyers-pay-49-99-accept-company-liabilities/#comments Got $50? Sorry, buddy, you totally missed out on buying Harmonix. All Things Digital's Peter Kafka reports that the Rock Band and Dance Central studio's re-independence cost investment group Columbus Nova $49.99.

Of course, the math gets a little tricky from there: Harmonix's buyers assumed responsibility over liabilities, including "music rights fees ... responsibility for lots of unsold games and equipment sitting on warehouse shelves." The sale will reportedly net Viacom $150 million in tax benefits -- it spent $175 million to buy the music company in the first place.

Kafka also notes the "fire sale price" can't be comforting to Harmonix employees, as he believes the studio is "likely going to be facing a very serious restructuring."

JoystiqReport: Harmonix buyers pay $49.99, accept company liabilities originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 Jan 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>columbus-novaDance-CentralHarmonixmicrosoftnintendoplaystationps3Rock-Band-3ViacomwiixboxTue, 04 Jan 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Harmonix retains IP rights to Rock Band, Dance Central]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/24/harmonix-retains-ip-rights-to-rock-band-dance-central/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/24/harmonix-retains-ip-rights-to-rock-band-dance-central/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/24/harmonix-retains-ip-rights-to-rock-band-dance-central/#comments Yesterday's Harmonix announcement of re-independence from global media conglomerate Viacom left questions hanging about the intellectual property rights to the studio's two main franchises. Joystiq has been informed by sources that Harmonix will "own the IP rights" to both the Rock Band and Dance Central franchises after the split, meaning it can continue to create new installments if it chooses.

We've also been informed that the developer's DLC support of both titles will continue "unaffected by the sale" and that its distribution relationships with EA and Mad Catz for the Rock Band series, and with Microsoft for Dance Central, also remain "unaffected."

What we currently understand of the situation, from sources involved, is that Viacom and MTV Games providing licensing muscle isn't as necessary as it once was -- before the music genre became established over the past few years. It appears relationships have been set that now allow Harmonix to license music for its games without the aid of Viacom.

JoystiqHarmonix retains IP rights to Rock Band, Dance Central originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Dec 2010 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dance-centralDance-Central-2Harmonixintellectual-propertymicrosoftMTV-Gamesnintendoplaystationps3rock-bandrock-band-2Rock-Band-3ViacomwiixboxFri, 24 Dec 2010 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rock Band dev Harmonix breaks from Viacom, goes independent again]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/23/rock-band-dev-harmonix-breaks-from-viacom-goes-independent-agai/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/23/rock-band-dev-harmonix-breaks-from-viacom-goes-independent-agai/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/23/rock-band-dev-harmonix-breaks-from-viacom-goes-independent-agai/#comments Guitar Hero and Rock Band creator Harmonix announced this morning that it's splitting with parent company Viacom and "returning to our roots as an independent and privately owned studio" -- investment company Columbus Nova helped purchase the studio and formed Harmonix-SBE Holdings LLC. Before we tell you anything else, know this: As promised, "the DLC schedule marches on for Rock Band, we will continue our support of previously released titles," wrote Harmonix PR rep John Drake in a statement on the Rock Band forums, "and we're hard at work on some unannounced projects that we think you're going to be pumped about."

The terms of the sale were not disclosed in the official announcement from Viacom, but the publisher has been looking for a chance to sell off Harmonix since at least mid-November. In the eyes of Harmonix, the partnership is ending amicably, with Drake adding, "Viacom and MTV Networks have been an amazing home for us over the past 4 years. It's where we launched both Rock Band and Dance Central, worked with The Beatles, Green Day, AC/DC, The Who and thousands of other artists. We want to take a moment to thank everyone in that organization who helped make these awesome games possible."

JoystiqRock Band dev Harmonix breaks from Viacom, goes independent again originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Dec 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcharmonixmicrosoftmtv-gamesnintendoplaystationps3rock-bandrock-band-3saleviacomwiixboxThu, 23 Dec 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Viacom denies keeping payments from Harmonix]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/21/viacom-denies-keeping-payments-from-harmonix/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/21/viacom-denies-keeping-payments-from-harmonix/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/21/viacom-denies-keeping-payments-from-harmonix/#comments Viacom has responded to claims this morning from Harmonix shareholders that the company avoided paying out bonuses to the developers of the Rock Band series. Viacom of course denies it dodged any obligations, and says instead that the representative for Harmonix's shareholders, Walter Winshall, was offered agreements that included big payouts for the developer but "spurned" those, hoping for a bigger reward later. That reward never came, says Viacom, and Winchell is allegedly lashing out with this lawsuit for not meeting his shareholders' expectations.

That doesn't quite cover the other allegation in the lawsuit against Viacom, which claims that it set up an agreement with EA on the Rock Band brand that benefited its own interests rather than those of Harmonix (by doing things like trading advertising sales on MTV rather than passing on profits to the developers). Proof on that allegation, one way or the other, will have to come out in court -- if this lawsuit goes that far.

JoystiqViacom denies keeping payments from Harmonix originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Dec 2010 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>harmonixlawsuitmtvprofitsrock-bandRock-Band-3shareholdersviacomwalter-winshallTue, 21 Dec 2010 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Harmonix founders, ex-shareholders sue Viacom]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/21/harmonix-founders-ex-shareholders-sue-viacom/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/21/harmonix-founders-ex-shareholders-sue-viacom/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/21/harmonix-founders-ex-shareholders-sue-viacom/#comments Gamasutra reports that a group of ex-shareholders of Harmonix, including company founders Alex Rigopulos and Eran Egozy, has filed a lawsuit against Viacom. The group accuses Viacom of avoiding performance-based bonuses for the Rock Band franchise, which the company first published in 2007 after acquiring Harmonix in 2006.

Specifically, Viacom's acquisition deal stated that Harmonix shareholders would be awarded with 3.5 times any gross profit of the Rock Band franchise over $32 million in 2007, a deal that Gamasutra states had "no cap." A similar deal applied to 2008 for profits over $45 million. To put things in perspective, the Rock Band franchise surpassed $1 billion in sales by March of 2009, and that was just in North America.

The shareholder suit alleges that Viacom attempted to manipulate Harmonix's earn-out payments by negotiating a deal with EA that benefitted Viacom instead of Harmonix. Specifically, the shareholder group claims that Viacom ignored the opportunity to lower EA's distribution cost -- in effect raising potential Rock Band profits -- as part of a deal to continue distribution. Instead, the company allegedly made a deal that would see EA purchase millions in advertising from MTV, thus benefitting its parent company, Viacom.

It's evidently a pretty hairy situation, especially in light of Viacom's recent decision to sell Harmonix entirely. We've reached out to Harmonix for comment.

JoystiqHarmonix founders, ex-shareholders sue Viacom originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Dec 2010 11:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alex-rigopulosdseaharmonixlawsuitmicrosoftmobilenintendoplaystationps3pspRock-Band-3sonyviacomwiixboxTue, 21 Dec 2010 11:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Music game sales continue plunge down the charts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/19/music-game-sales-continue-plunge-down-the-charts/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/19/music-game-sales-continue-plunge-down-the-charts/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/19/music-game-sales-continue-plunge-down-the-charts/#comments If this sounds like a familiar tune, it is: Music game sales have plummeted for a second-straight year. But this year, the tune is way more off key.

According to analysis by Gamasutra, which looked at the period from January through October in each of the past three years, music game revenues in the U.S. have taken a phenomenal nose dive from an epic height of $1.6 billion in 2008 to where they've landed today: under $250 million for the year. "Short of a Christmas miracle," concludes analyst Matt Matthews, "music games won't break $400 million for all of 2010."

Ohhh ... so that's why Viacom's hawking Harmonix.

JoystiqMusic game sales continue plunge down the charts originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Nov 2010 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisiondj-hero-2eagreen-day-rock-bandguitar-heroguitar-hero-warriors-of-rockharmonixmicrosoftmtv-gamesmusicmusic-gamesnintendoplaystationpower-gig-rise-of-the-sixstringps3rhythmrock-bandrock-band-3salesseven45softwareviacomwiixboxFri, 19 Nov 2010 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rock Band, Dance Central DLC 'ongoing work' not affected by Viacom sale]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/11/rock-band-dance-central-dlc-ongoing-work-not-affected-by-viac/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/11/rock-band-dance-central-dlc-ongoing-work-not-affected-by-viac/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/11/rock-band-dance-central-dlc-ongoing-work-not-affected-by-viac/#comments After seeing this morning's news of Viacom selling developer Harmonix, many of you were concerned about the company's persistent work in supporting its products with downloadable content.

Harmonix has responded to our inquiry, stating, "This morning's announcement does not affect the ongoing work at the studio as we continue to support our existing franchises, Rock Band and Dance Central. As stated earlier, Viacom is in discussions with several potential buyers and will continue to fully support the business until a sale is completed." The developer plans to continue answering outstanding questions on its forum on this thread.

We also contacted Viacom and MTV Games regarding the status of the licenses for the music store and whether they'll transfer with Harmonix once the company is sold. A Viacom spokesperson informed Joystiq, "All we can say at this point is that Rock Band and Dance Central DLC will continue as planned and we will continue to fully support their releases."

Update: Added Viacom quote.

JoystiqRock Band, Dance Central DLC 'ongoing work' not affected by Viacom sale originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Nov 2010 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dance-centralHarmonixmicrosoftMTV-Gamesnintendoplaystationps3Rock-Band-3ViacomwiixboxThu, 11 Nov 2010 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Rock Band developer Harmonix to be sold by Viacom]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/11/rock-band-developer-harmonix-to-be-sold-by-viacom/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/11/rock-band-developer-harmonix-to-be-sold-by-viacom/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/11/rock-band-developer-harmonix-to-be-sold-by-viacom/#comments Viacom has announced that it plans to sell Harmonix, developer of the Rock Band series and Dance Central. The mega-corp has reclassified the Boston-based company as a "discontinued operation" in its third-quarter financial and has already changed all future earnings to reflect the sale. The company recorded a $299 million loss in discontinued operations to reflect the change.

We followed up with Wedbush Morgan analyst Michael Pachter to help explain the "discontinued operations" situation. The analyst told Joystiq, "I am sure that the purchase price of $175 million is in there -- it would have been carried on Viacom's balance sheet as goodwill. The rest could be other operations (non-gaming), some portion of the earn out that they paid a couple of years ago, which should have been expensed, but you never know, or some portion of the development costs for games not yet released."

Update: Added quote from EEDAR analyst Jesse Divnich after the break.

[Thanks, Andrew B.]

Continue reading Rock Band developer Harmonix to be sold by Viacom

JoystiqRock Band developer Harmonix to be sold by Viacom originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Nov 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsharmonixmicrosoftnintendoplaystationps3pspRock-Band-3sonyviacomwiixboxThu, 11 Nov 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rock Band lawsuit settled; Konami and Harmonix dismiss 'all claims and counterclaims']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/17/rock-band-lawsuit-settled-konami-and-harmonix-dismiss-all-clai/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/17/rock-band-lawsuit-settled-konami-and-harmonix-dismiss-all-clai/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/17/rock-band-lawsuit-settled-konami-and-harmonix-dismiss-all-clai/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Konami and Harmonix have settled their dispute originating in a 2008 lawsuit launched by Konami, reports Bloomberg. According to a filing in federal court in Texas this week, the two parties agreed to dismiss "all claims and counterclaims" in the suit, which alleged that Harmonix's Rock Band infringed upon patents owned by Konami.

Additionally, a 2009 countersuit by parent company Viacom on behalf of Harmonix was dropped yesterday in a filing in federal court in Boston. The terms of the agreement between Konami and Harmonix were not disclosed -- but we do so badly hope they involved a rooftop, two ninjas and a mean jam session.

JoystiqRock Band lawsuit settled; Konami and Harmonix dismiss 'all claims and counterclaims' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 Sep 2010 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>drummaniaguitarfreaksharmonixharmonix-v-konamikonamikonami-v-harmonixlawsuitlegalpatentrock-bandrock-revolutionsettlementviacomFri, 17 Sep 2010 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Viacom loses less on Rock Band year-over-year]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/06/viacom-loses-less-on-rock-band/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/06/viacom-loses-less-on-rock-band/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/06/viacom-loses-less-on-rock-band/#commentsFiled under: , ,

It seems Viacom's striking fewer sour notes this year, with operating profits up $789 million -- good for 14 percent -- in its Media Networks division (the umbrella its video game business is under). According to the mega-corp, gains are due in part to lower losses from the Rock Band franchise.

You know, we dinged Green Day: Rock Band for being a less lavish production than its Beatles-based predecessor, but it seems that (from a big picture perspective at least) the scaled-back approach and getting out of the instrument biz is paying off.

JoystiqViacom loses less on Rock Band year-over-year originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Aug 2010 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>financialsgreen-day-rock-bandharmonixmicrosoftmtv-gamesnintendoplaystationps3rock-bandviacomwiixboxFri, 06 Aug 2010 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SpongeBob. SquarePants. MMO.]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/09/spongebob-squarepants-mmo/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/09/spongebob-squarepants-mmo/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/09/spongebob-squarepants-mmo/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Who lives in a pineapple under the sea? EVERYONE.

MTV Asia and GigaMedia are co-developing and publishing an MMO based on cultural icon SpongeBob SquarePants. The massively multiplayer oceanic online game launches in 2011 for the markets of China, Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Southeast Asia and India. It is the first Viacom (MTV's parent company) MMO to be developed outside the US.

The free-to-play title will naturally have an online store for virtual citizens of Bikini Bottom to purchase items ... like, bikini bottoms? More details on the game will be announced closer to launch. Meanwhile, we expect to see at least ten online petitions demanding this game to be brought to the rest of the world.

JoystiqSpongeBob. SquarePants. MMO. originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Jun 2010 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Gigamediammomtv-networkspcSpongebob-SquarepantsviacomWed, 09 Jun 2010 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gibson and Viacom settle guitar patent lawsuit]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/09/gibson-and-viacom-settle-guitar-patent-lawsuit/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/09/gibson-and-viacom-settle-guitar-patent-lawsuit/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/09/gibson-and-viacom-settle-guitar-patent-lawsuit/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The patent suit filed by the Gibson guitar company against Harmonix, Viacom and EA over the Rock Band guitar has come to an end. Rather than the clear victory Harmonix seemed to expect, the parties have agreed to settle. According to Business Week, Gibson and Viacom asked a federal court to dismiss the case by June 14, stating that they "had reached a full settlement." Finally, we can all rock out without being racked by guilt over using a potentially infringing device.

Gibson originally claimed that the Rock Band guitar violated a 1999 patent for "a system for electronically simulating participation by a user in a pre-recorded musical performance." Gibson lost a similar case against its old Guitar Hero peripheral partner, Activision, in 2009.

[Via Edge]

JoystiqGibson and Viacom settle guitar patent lawsuit originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Jun 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Electronic-ArtsGibsonHarmonixlawsuitmicrosoftnintendoplaystationps3Rock-BandViacomwiixboxXbox-360Wed, 09 Jun 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EA: Rock Band deal with Viacom only through March 2010]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/ea-rock-band-deal-with-viacom-only-through-fiscal-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/ea-rock-band-deal-with-viacom-only-through-fiscal-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/ea-rock-band-deal-with-viacom-only-through-fiscal-2010/#commentsIf you're wondering where Rock Band 3 is, a year and a half after Rock Band 2 and five months after the launch of The Beatles: Rock Band, it seems EA isn't sure it's going to get to publish it. During an investor conference call, EA execs revealed that the publisher's deal with Viacom (the company that owns MTV, Harmonix, Rock Band and maybe you as well) is only active through fiscal year 2010 (which ends March 31).

Presumably the deal somehow includes the yet-to-be-released Green Day: Rock Band -- but EA's unlikely to announce any more Rock Band games until it knows it has the license locked down for another year.

[Update: An MTV/Harmonix spokesperson has told us "The previously announced Green Day: Rock Band will be published by MTV Games and distributed by EA. Stay tuned for news of MTV Games' other titles soon."]

JoystiqEA: Rock Band deal with Viacom only through March 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaElectronic-ArtsharmonixMicrosoftmtvNintendorock-bandrock-band-2rock-band-3viacomWiiXbox-360Mon, 08 Feb 2010 18:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Viacom: The Beatles: Rock Band sales strong, overall RB growth slow]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/04/viacom-the-beatles-rock-band-sales-strong-overall-rb-growth-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/04/viacom-the-beatles-rock-band-sales-strong-overall-rb-growth-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/04/viacom-the-beatles-rock-band-sales-strong-overall-rb-growth-s/#comments
Even though John, Paul, George and Ringo have been rocking the disc tray of your favorite console with The Beatles: Rock Band, its expectation-exceeding sales haven't helped boost overall Rock Band sales. Viacom CEO Philippe Dauman told USA Today the "economics of our Rock Band franchise are improving, though not as quickly as we'd like." There's still hope that Rock Band could at least break even or show a small profit, though Viacom CFO Tom Dooley said that will depend entirely on the franchise's performance this holiday season.

Despite tanking sales, the music genre still remains one of the best in the industry and The Beatles: Rock Band shows us that the right approach could still determine financial success in the space. Its September debut was very fortuitous and it even managed to best Guitar Hero 5 in the US -- which not only came with a free game, but is also one of the most recognizable brands to the mainstream.

Source - USA Today
Source - Viacom earnings report

JoystiqViacom: The Beatles: Rock Band sales strong, overall RB growth slow originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 20:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaElectronic-ArtsMicrosoftmtvmtv-gamesmusicNintendorhythmrock-bandthe-beatlesthe-beatles-rock-bandviacomWiiXbox-360Wed, 04 Nov 2009 20:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Beatles: Rock Band sales exceeding expectations, Viacom says]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/16/beatles-rock-band-sales-exceeding-expectations-viacom-says/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/16/beatles-rock-band-sales-exceeding-expectations-viacom-says/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/16/beatles-rock-band-sales-exceeding-expectations-viacom-says/#comments When Viacom's CEO, Philippe Dauman, says that The Beatles: Rock Band sales have "exceeded internal expectations," we have to imagine that he doesn't have his top expectations men on the job. If we had been asked for our expectations of a game featuring the most popular band of all time, we would have simply pointed toward www.mythirdyacht.com and been on our way.

What's actually a surprise from an IndustryGamers report on the matter is that even in our crummy economy, it's the $250 version of the game -- bundled with all the instruments -- that's performing so well that Dauman says he expects a sellout by November.

JoystiqBeatles: Rock Band sales exceeding expectations, Viacom says originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaElectronic-ArtsharmonixMicrosoftNintendorock-bandsalesthe-beatles-rock-bandviacomWiiXbox-360Wed, 16 Sep 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MTV spent big for The Beatles, slowly backing away from peripheral business]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/31/mtv-spent-big-for-the-beatles-slowly-backing-away-from-peripher/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/31/mtv-spent-big-for-the-beatles-slowly-backing-away-from-peripher/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/31/mtv-spent-big-for-the-beatles-slowly-backing-away-from-peripher/#comments
It appears that Viacom, parent company of MTV Games and Harmonix, guaranteed a minimum of $10 million, along with another potential $40 million in royalties, to its respective estates for the use of The Beatles in the upcoming Rock Band game. Sources familiar with the deal tell The LA Times that the "royalty rates on [the deal] are not even comparable to anything that has been done before." All this cash is being thrown around in the midst of a revenue decline in the rhythm genre.

MTV Games is seemingly taking even more steps away from producing and distributing peripherals. Paul DeGooyer, senior vice president at the company, explains that its "core competency is media" -- he'd rather let Activision "take on the burden of getting those super-tight margin instruments out there."

JoystiqMTV spent big for The Beatles, slowly backing away from peripheral business originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 31 Aug 2009 10:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesseaElectronic-Artsharmonixla-timesMicrosoftmtv-gamesNintendorock-bandthe-beatlesthe-beatles-rock-bandviacomWiiXbox-360Mon, 31 Aug 2009 10:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Rock Band slump leads to lower Viacom profits]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/28/rock-band-slump-leads-to-lower-viacom-profits/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/28/rock-band-slump-leads-to-lower-viacom-profits/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/28/rock-band-slump-leads-to-lower-viacom-profits/#comments
Remember how Rock Band sales declined 67 percent since last year? It looks like the sales slump has taken its toll on Viacom's Media Networks division, which houses MTV Games. According to Gamasutra, the division reported revenues of $1.97 billion in its fiscal quarter ending June 30, an 8 percent drop, dubbed the result of "a 41 percent decline in ancillary revenues driven by lower sales of the music video game Rock Band." The Media Networks division also reported profits of $671 million, down 12 percent, which was again attributed to the performance of Rock Band at retail.

Overall, Viacom reported a 14 percent drop in revenues to $3.3 billion and a 26 percent drop in profits to $586 million, though executive chairman Sumner Redstone says that Viacom has "the right portfolio of assets and the right vision to manage through this challenging climate."

Will The Beatles: Rock Band get economically strapped, music-loving gamers back in stores? We'll find out in September.

JoystiqRock Band slump leads to lower Viacom profits originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 28 Jul 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesseconomyharmonixmtv-gamesrock-bandthe-beatles-rock-bandviacomTue, 28 Jul 2009 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Konami counter-sued by Viacom over Rock Revolution]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/13/konami-counter-sued-by-viacom-over-rock-revolution/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/13/konami-counter-sued-by-viacom-over-rock-revolution/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/13/konami-counter-sued-by-viacom-over-rock-revolution/#commentsFiled under: ,

Last July, Konami filed a lawsuit against Viacom, parent company of Rock Band developer Harmonix, claiming the game infringed on patents it held for music titles utilizing guitar controllers. After six months of silence, Harmonix has decided to sue back, claiming Rock Band actually improved on Konami's patents -- and Rock Revolution is, in fact, infringing on Viacom patents. Confused yet?

The gist of Harmonix's counter-suit involves a claim Rock Revolution is actually more like Rock Band than Konami's GuitarFreak franchise, the design of which is likely the basis of the original suit. We naturally picture all of this unfolding Phoenix Wright style, but the reality is most likely far, far less interesting. We'll let you know if any sparks begin to fly.

[Via Shacknews]

JoystiqKonami counter-sued by Viacom over Rock Revolution originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Feb 2009 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>harmonixkonamilawsuitPS3rock-bandrock-revolutionviacomXbox-360Fri, 13 Feb 2009 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Viacom: Rock Band 2 sales less than expected, but still solid]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/12/viacom-rock-band-2-sales-less-than-expected-but-still-solid/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/12/viacom-rock-band-2-sales-less-than-expected-but-still-solid/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/12/viacom-rock-band-2-sales-less-than-expected-but-still-solid/#comments
Viacom is content with the two million units sold of Rock Band 2 since launch, but expected more from the series. PaidContent reports that the media conglomerate sees the Rock Band franchise as a bright spot in what it otherwise expects to be a very difficult year, particularly with ad revenues getting "worse before it gets better."

Harmonix may not have a new Rock Band this year, but it's certainly continuing its streak of DLC content for the platform and will release the The Beatles game (for the benefit of Mr. Kite) later this year.

[Via Gamasutra]

JoystiqViacom: Rock Band 2 sales less than expected, but still solid originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Feb 2009 20:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>harmonixmtv-gamesrock-bandrock-band-2rock-band-dlcviacomThu, 12 Feb 2009 20:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Viacom: Rock Band attracts more talent]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/10/viacom-rock-band-attracts-more-talent/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/10/viacom-rock-band-attracts-more-talent/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/10/viacom-rock-band-attracts-more-talent/#commentsFiled under: ,


According to Viacom CEO Philippe Dauman (Via Edge Online), Rock Band has an easier time of attracting musicians than its competitor, Guitar Hero. Dauman said that he believes artists see that Viacom has a "music orientation" (the company owns MTV, you see), adding that the company has "the opportunity to attract talent to [Rock Band] in a way that our competitors have greater difficulty doing." Dauman cited the upcoming Beatles game in particular, saying that the deal to create the game "is something that we probably got because we're Viacom--we're MTV Networks."

The Edge Online piece states that Rock Band has officially surpassed the 500 song mark with the release of the most recent No Doubt tracks, which compares rather favorably with approximately 150 songs available for Guitar Hero: World Tour. As for Viacom's future in the video game industry, Dauman said that the company likely won't be making any more "big acquisitions" like its purchase of Harmonix in 2008.

Finally, Dauman dropped a few more details on the Beatles game, saying that "it will just blow you away." He added that the game will feature "never-before-heard dialog" from the group's recording sessions.

JoystiqViacom: Rock Band attracts more talent originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Dec 2008 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic-artsharmonixmtvmtv-gamesrock-bandrock-band-2viacomWed, 10 Dec 2008 17:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Konami none too pleased with Rock Band, files patent suit]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/11/konami-none-too-pleased-with-rock-band-files-patent-suit/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/11/konami-none-too-pleased-with-rock-band-files-patent-suit/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/11/konami-none-too-pleased-with-rock-band-files-patent-suit/#commentsFiled under:


Konami is pretty upset. They recently filed a patent suit against Harmonix, MTV and their parent company, Viacom. Apparently, a little game called Rock Band (you've probably never heard of it) violated patents Konami had filed in 2002 and 2003. The suit seeks to block Harmonix from using Konami's "inventions" and also get compensation in the form of lots of money from the company. With Konami having introduced GuitarFreaks (a game utilizing a guitar controller) to Japanese arcades nearly a decade ago, it seems likely that this is what it's all about.


[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqKonami none too pleased with Rock Band, files patent suit originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 Jul 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessguitarfreaksharmonixkonamilawsuitmtvpatentrock-bandviacomFri, 11 Jul 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Man drops lawsuit over Rock Band instrument bundling]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/man-drops-lawsuit-over-rock-band-instrument-bundling/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/man-drops-lawsuit-over-rock-band-instrument-bundling/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/man-drops-lawsuit-over-rock-band-instrument-bundling/#commentsFiled under: , ,

With all the rhythm game-related lawsuits flying around in recent months, it seems we totally missed a class-action lawsuit filed back in March by one Michael Antonelli against Rock Band makers Harmonix, Electronic Arts and Viacom (owner of MTV). It seems Antonelli was upset that the companies weren't offering a standalone guitar for the game, requiring PS3 owners to buy two full, $170 bundles in order to play with the full four-player setup (Xbox 360 owners could use Guitar Hero II's USB guitar).

Well, we're not too broken out about missing this news the first time around, because Next Gen is reporting that Antonelli dropped the suit as of June 6. We can't say we blame him, as the standalone guitar he wanted has been announced since February and available since April.

While it's always nice to see a frivolous lawsuit drop to the side of the road, it's also a little sad. Just think of all those hours spent preparing those pointless legal briefs -- those are hours that could have been spent rocking out! It's a shame, really ...

JoystiqMan drops lawsuit over Rock Band instrument bundling originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Jun 2008 12:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EAelectronic-artsharmonixlawsuitMTVMTV-GamesPS3rock-bandviacomXbox-360Thu, 12 Jun 2008 12:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Rock Band ships 3 million 'bundled' units, 10 million songs downloaded]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/02/rock-band-ships-3-million-bundled-units-10-million-songs-down/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/02/rock-band-ships-3-million-bundled-units-10-million-songs-down/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/02/rock-band-ships-3-million-bundled-units-10-million-songs-down/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Harmonix's grand-parent company, Viacom, announced today as part of its Q1 earnings that Rock Band has shipped three million "bundled units." GameDaily reports that the company also stated that Harmonix has had over 10 million songs downloaded for the game.

The last report we had was that Harmonix hit the six million DLC song mark in mid-March, which means the new music store apparently did help accelerate sales. Viacom's CEO said that Rock Band is emerging as a valuable long-term franchise and he expects further success from the Wii and European launches.

JoystiqRock Band ships 3 million 'bundled' units, 10 million songs downloaded originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 May 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>harmonixmtv-gamesPS3rock-bandrockbandviacomXbox-360Fri, 02 May 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MCV: Midway could become part of Viacom]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/25/mcv-midway-could-become-part-of-viacom/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/25/mcv-midway-could-become-part-of-viacom/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/25/mcv-midway-could-become-part-of-viacom/#commentsFiled under:


Midway's newly minted CEO Matt Booty recently kicked open a treasure chest full of speculation telling MCV that the storied video game publisher "strategically fits in with [Viacom's] overall plan." This got MCV speculating that "Midway could soon officially become part of the Viacom family" joining other Viacom properties like MTV Networks (who already own MTV Games, Harmonix, GameTrailers, etc.), and Paramount, which recently announced that it too would get on the video game publishing bandwagon.

Why Viacom, you ask? Because Viacom bigwig Sumer Redstone is a majority shareholder in Midway and his daughter, Shari Redstone, is its Chair. With all the red ink at Midway, Redstone may be ready to introduce his two corporate families and realize some of that corporate synergy the suits are always going on about.

JoystiqMCV: Midway could become part of Viacom originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 Apr 2008 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>MidwayViacomFri, 25 Apr 2008 17:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Departing Midway CEO bullish on company outlook]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/21/departing-midway-ceo-bullish-on-company-outlook/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/21/departing-midway-ceo-bullish-on-company-outlook/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/21/departing-midway-ceo-bullish-on-company-outlook/#commentsFiled under:

Having to fire a CEO is never a good sign for a company, especially when that company has recently seen massive losses and a board restructuring. But there's still one person willing to defend Midway's business strategy, and that person is, surprisingly enough, departing CEO David Zucker.

To be fair, Zucker was interviewed before his replacement by an interim CEO yesterday, but if he saw the writing on the wall he didn't let it show. "We expect to significantly grow our revenues in 2008," Zucker told GamesIndustry.biz last week, adding that naysayers have been predicting the company's demise for "for five years or so." Zucker emphasized that a combination of investment in new technology and established franchises like Mortal Kombat and NFL Blitz will provide the company's saving grace. That might well be true, but any turnaround will unfortunately come too late to be the saving grace for Mr. Zucker.

JoystiqDeparting Midway CEO bullish on company outlook originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Mar 2008 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>firedfutureMidwayoutlookpredictionRedstoneViacomZuckerFri, 21 Mar 2008 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Paramount 'very, very, excited' about games space]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/04/paramount-very-very-excited-about-games-space/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/04/paramount-very-very-excited-about-games-space/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/04/paramount-very-very-excited-about-games-space/#commentsFiled under:


Paramount tells MCV that the studio would like to increase its presence in video games and even establish a publishing division. Paramount Digital's General Manager of Worldwide Distribution, Alex Carloss, says being part of Viacom gives Paramount inroads into many worlds and the studio is "very, very excited" about growth into the "interactive entertainment market." He concludes, "You're going to see an awful lot more from Paramount in the space."

When asked if Paramount would follow Warner Brothers into third-party games publishing, Carloss replied it would be "imprudent" to give "guidance" on that. Being a part of a behemoth like Viacom certainly has its advantages. Another Viacom child, MTV, is set to spend $500 million over the next two years, and initial investments seem to be paying off.

[Via GameDaily]

JoystiqParamount 'very, very, excited' about games space originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 Mar 2008 19:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alex-carlosscarlossmtvparamountviacomTue, 04 Mar 2008 19:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Former Harmonix shareholders may receive $209 million from Viacom]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/03/former-harmonix-shareholders-receive-209-million-from-viacom/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/03/former-harmonix-shareholders-receive-209-million-from-viacom/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/03/former-harmonix-shareholders-receive-209-million-from-viacom/#commentsFiled under:


Former Harmonix shareholders are looking to split a pot of $209 million courtesy of current owner MTV Games' parent company Viacom. A recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission states that because "financial results exceed specific contractual targets" that the former shareholders may receive a nice payday in the near future.

Rock Band may not be at Guitar Hero's level of sales yet, but its ninja operation of consistent DLC has paid off heavily (not only in sales, but in keeping gamer mindshare). Even at its initial high retail price, Rock Band has marched to a steady drumbeat and displayed staying power.

For those interested in crunching the numbers, Newsweek's Level Up looks at the devil down in Georgia in the details of this bonus.

JoystiqFormer Harmonix shareholders may receive $209 million from Viacom originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 03 Mar 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>harmonixmtvviacomMon, 03 Mar 2008 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Viacom bidding $1.5 billion to take over Take-Two]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/07/rumor-viacom-bidding-1-5-billion-to-takeover-take-two/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/07/rumor-viacom-bidding-1-5-billion-to-takeover-take-two/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/07/rumor-viacom-bidding-1-5-billion-to-takeover-take-two/#commentsFiled under:


Take-Two Interactive has seen its fair share of ups and downs, and with stocks on the slow rise following the announced release date of GTA IV, it's rumored that media conglomerate Viacom might be moving in to make a bid on the company, to the tune of $1.5 billion USD.

MCV reports that Viacom is looking to buy majority ownership of the publisher and developer, with a reputed bid of $23 USD per share; Take-Two's current stock value was at around $16 as of last night. At this premium, majority shareholders could be convinced to sell their stock, giving Viacom an opportunity to seize control of the company.

True or not, the value of Take-Two is expected to rise tremendously following the release of Grand Theft Auto IV, making these early months the best time for a company like Viacom to make a move.

Update: Reuters says that "a source familiar with the matter" has disputed reports of Viacom's offer. The plot thickens ...

JoystiqRumor: Viacom bidding $1.5 billion to take over Take-Two originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Feb 2008 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>grand-theft-autogtaivrumorstake2viacomThu, 07 Feb 2008 11:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Mad Catz to make Rock Band instruments]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/04/mad-catz-to-make-rock-band-instruments/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/04/mad-catz-to-make-rock-band-instruments/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/04/mad-catz-to-make-rock-band-instruments/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

With the absolute flood of third-party guitars for the Guitar Hero series, it's not that surprising that accessory-makers are jumping on the Rock Band-wagon, too. Well, at least one is. Mad Catz today announced a "multi-year licensing agreement" with MTV Games to produce "both wired and wireless bass guitars, a drum percussion set bundled with professional quality wooden drum sticks, and a wired microphone."

While having extra options for drum kits and microphones is nice, the addition of officially licensed, wireless, third-party guitars will be welcome news to PS3 owners tired of not being able to use their Guitar Hero III guitars with Rock Band and Xbox 360 owners tired of tripping over wires -- not to mention general Rock Band owners tired of replacing their broken bundled guitars. The instruments will be available in the "first half of 2008," according to the release.

While the release specifically addresses Rock Band instruments, it also leaves the door open for other applicable "game accessories." We personally can't wait for the inevitable pyrotechnics launcher that goes off every time you nail a tough solo. Just, er, be careful with it, OK?

JoystiqMad Catz to make Rock Band instruments originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Jan 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>drumsguitarharmonixMad CatzMadCatzmicrophoneMTV GamesMtvGamesPS2PS3rock-bandViacomXbox-360Fri, 04 Jan 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft, Viacom team up to offer games, videos on 360, Windows]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/20/microsoft-viacom-team-up-to-offer-games-videos-on-360-windows/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/20/microsoft-viacom-team-up-to-offer-games-videos-on-360-windows/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/20/microsoft-viacom-team-up-to-offer-games-videos-on-360-windows/#commentsFiled under: ,


Microsoft and media conglomerate Viacom have just entered a long-term partnership to provide content on each other's properties. The collaboration will bring more video and audio content to Xbox Live Marketplace, as well as casual games to Windows Live and MSN.com, with Microsoft purchasing ad content on Viacom's broadcast and online networks.

The partnership, which starts with an initial five-year contract, will bring audio and video content to MSN.com and Xbox Live Marketplace from Viacom-owned companies like MTV Networks, Paramount, and BET. Viacom will also provide casual games on MSN.com and Windows (Xbox Live Arcade was not specifically mentioned).

In return, Microsoft will purchase substantial amounts of ad content through Viacom over the next five years, with the two companies collaborating to run promotions during major events aired on MTV and BET, such as award shows. The deal is worth an estimated $500 million in business services over the initial contract period.

JoystiqMicrosoft, Viacom team up to offer games, videos on 360, Windows originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Dec 2007 09:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingmicrosoftviacomXbox-360Thu, 20 Dec 2007 09:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft partners with Viacom for exclusive content]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/19/microsoft-partners-with-viacom-for-exclusive-content/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/19/microsoft-partners-with-viacom-for-exclusive-content/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/19/microsoft-partners-with-viacom-for-exclusive-content/#commentsFiled under: ,

Everyone knows that Microsoft is aggressively seeking digital content for its MSN and Xbox 360 Video Marketplace services. So aggressive, that they've forced Viacom to succumb to their will. Well, not exactly ... but Microsoft is known for their tough business practices.

Both Microsoft and Viacom announced today that they've entered into a partnership (both willingly, of course) that'll give Microsoft unprecedented access to Viacom's MTV, BET and Paramount Pictures content stockpile for five years. The deal is estimated to be worth $500 million and will give Microsoft the rights to distribute certain content while Viacom benefits by getting Microsoft to jump on board with advertising. We have a feeling the US Video Marketplace is about to get a little bigger ...

[Via AMN Xbox 360]

JoystiqMicrosoft partners with Viacom for exclusive content originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 Dec 2007 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftviacomvideo-marketplacexblmWed, 19 Dec 2007 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Paramount drops Blu-ray support -- everybody groans]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/20/paramount-drops-blu-ray-support-everybody-groans/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/20/paramount-drops-blu-ray-support-everybody-groans/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/20/paramount-drops-blu-ray-support-everybody-groans/#commentsFiled under: ,

After months of reports proving that Blu-ray sells more movies than HD-DVD, Paramount's parent company Viacom has announced that they are dropping Blu-ray support and going HD-DVD exclusive. According to Viacom, they made this decision based on researching the benefits of HD-DVD, which "confirmed the clear benefits of HD DVD." Some of the benefits of HD-DVD that they mentioned included lower sales, a much smaller user base, and limited storage space (okay okay, they actually said 'market ready technology' and 'lower manufacturing costs').

There are rumors of a 150 million dollar payout by the HD-DVD consortium to nab the Viacom exclusivity, which sure would help explain the move more than the officially given reasons. Regardless, we now can look at the format-war that nobody wanted getting strung out even longer. Yay -- thanks Viacom.

[Thanks to everybody who sent this in]

JoystiqParamount drops Blu-ray support -- everybody groans originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Aug 2007 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blu-rayhd-dvdparamountviacomMon, 20 Aug 2007 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[MTV spending $500 million on games in next two years]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/16/mtv-spending-500-million-on-games-in-next-two-years/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/16/mtv-spending-500-million-on-games-in-next-two-years/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/16/mtv-spending-500-million-on-games-in-next-two-years/#commentsFiled under:

MTV intends to spend over the next two years $500 million dollars in the video game industry. OK, seriously, maybe seeing the full line of digits will have more impact: $500,000,000. Eight zeros, a half billion dollars. This is big news and goes way beyond anything having to do with MTV's potential mega-hit Rock Band.

"We're putting well over $500 million behind building our games business across all of the brands in our portfolio ... I'd like to see more game applications on some of our current big brands across the music group," MTV chairman Judy McGrath said. It's still not absolutely clear if this money includes the $100 million already announced for MTV Network's Nickelodeon. This continues MTV's march across the industry having already acquired major properties like GameTrailers and Harmonix. No announcements yet where this money is going, but it's going to be very interesting to see MTV flex its financial muscle in the industry.

JoystiqMTV spending $500 million on games in next two years originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Aug 2007 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>investmentmillionsmtvnickelodeonviacomThu, 16 Aug 2007 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Stephen Colbert's Tek Jansen opens chrono-rift in XBLM]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/11/stephen-colberts-tek-jansen-opens-chrono-rift-in-xblm/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/11/stephen-colberts-tek-jansen-opens-chrono-rift-in-xblm/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/11/stephen-colberts-tek-jansen-opens-chrono-rift-in-xblm/#commentsFiled under:


Solar plexus! Now that Viacom's gotten the lawyers involved, it's become increasingly difficult for us to track down our favorite Tek Jansen clips on YouTube. Sure, we can always go to Viacom's own iFilm property and watch the preroll ad (and they still can't be embedded in our posts).

As Microsoft looks for more ways to fill those 120GB hard drives they want you to buy, they're enlisting the help of Stephen Colbert Presents: Stephen Colbert's Alpha Squad 7 -- Tek Jansen the New Adventures. Available this week, the first short will be free while future installments will cost an unspecified amount. Our favorite? Operation Dragontongue: Chocolate Blades of Thunder. But hurry! If you don't click this link and watch the video immediately, you risk opening a chrono-rift in the space-time continuum and may miss important life lessons (hint: DON'T GO IN CAVES!).

[Via Arrogantics]

JoystiqStephen Colbert's Tek Jansen opens chrono-rift in XBLM originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Apr 2007 10:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ComedyCentralStephenColbertTekJansenViacomXBLMXbox-360Wed, 11 Apr 2007 10:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Zidane, Bush and Cheney walk into a videogame...]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/27/zidane-bush-and-cheney-walk-into-a-videogame/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/27/zidane-bush-and-cheney-walk-into-a-videogame/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/27/zidane-bush-and-cheney-walk-into-a-videogame/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

AddictingGames.com (part of Viacom), just created a newsgames repository for web games based on current news events. Games include the Zidane game we blogged back in June, Cheney's Fury, Bush Backrub and Darfur is Dying.

The company expects most of these games to come from users of the site (aka, free labor!), with game developer Persuasive Games filling out the offering where needed.

Persuasive Games founder Ian Bogost is characteristically academic (and characteristically right) about the venture: "the news is constantly changing, and games give us a new way to understand current events."

This idea ain't new (see The Guardian's The Role of Play from May 2004), but that doesn't mean it's not worth pursuing. Here's to hoping that they'll bring us a mix of goofy content like the Zidane headbutt game in addition to more serious, impactful games like September 12 (from which the post image is taken) or Madrid.

JoystiqZidane, Bush and Cheney walk into a videogame... originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Sep 2006 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>addicting gamescasual gamesCasualGamesian bogostMacnews gamesPCpersuasive gamesviacomWed, 27 Sep 2006 08:28:00 EST