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[Stormrise only supports DirectX 10, is Vista-exclusive]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/04/stormrise-only-supports-directx-10-is-vista-exclusive/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/04/stormrise-only-supports-directx-10-is-vista-exclusive/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/04/stormrise-only-supports-directx-10-is-vista-exclusive/#commentsIt's now confirmed that The Creative Assembly's upcoming RTS title, Stormrise, will only support DirectX 10 on the PC, thus making it exclusive to Windows Vista by default.

In an interview with PC Games Hardware, Stormrise lead designer Artem Kulakov confirms the title's DX10 support, making it the first (and possibly only) Vista-exclusive game (Update: Uh, except for all those other ones). According to Kulakov, the reason for only supporting DX10 is to make it easier to port to console platforms and to give the developer an "opportunity to increase performance and improve visual quality."

While we aren't experts in the field of how to launch a new franchise, we suspect that limiting the potential user base to only those with Vista (and without some hacking skillz) seems counterproductive to the goal of making a profit.

[Via Big Download]

JoystiqStormrise only supports DirectX 10, is Vista-exclusive originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Mar 2009 21:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dx10rtssegastormrisethe-creative-assemblyvistawindows-vistaWed, 04 Mar 2009 21:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Windows Vista + PS3 = Proof of Patience, and not much else]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/06/windows-vista-ps3-proof-of-patience-and-not-much-else/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/06/windows-vista-ps3-proof-of-patience-and-not-much-else/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/06/windows-vista-ps3-proof-of-patience-and-not-much-else/#commentsFiled under: ,

We're not even willing to label this a "proof of concept," as this mash-up of Windows Vista (via emulation) and the PlayStation 3 is only for those with near-infinite patience or those with a penchant for pain. Some numbers to keep in mind: a day to install, 25 minutes to boot up, 5 minutes to access the start menu and 12 minutes to open notepad. (That's a lot of sandwiches.)

Video embedded after the break, or click here to view instructions on how to do it yourself. Only the truly masochistic need apply.

[Via Engadget]

Continue reading Windows Vista + PS3 = Proof of Patience, and not much else

JoystiqWindows Vista + PS3 = Proof of Patience, and not much else originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Aug 2008 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hackhomebrewPS3sonyvistawindowswindows-vistaWed, 06 Aug 2008 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[An exercise in futility: installing Windows Vista on PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/05/an-exercise-in-futility-installing-windows-vista-on-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/05/an-exercise-in-futility-installing-windows-vista-on-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/05/an-exercise-in-futility-installing-windows-vista-on-ps3/#commentsFiled under:

Emulating operating systems is never really a good idea. Yet, mopx0 has decided to give it a try with Microsoft's latest operating system, Vista. To say it runs slow would be an understatement, as booting the resource-heavy OS takes 25 minutes on the system. To run Notepad emulated on the PS3 via Linux takes a whopping 12 minutes. It's not really practical, but shows the incredible dedication the hacking community has when tackling the strangest of projects.

If for some crazy reason you want to give it a try, read here.

[Via Engadget]

JoystiqAn exercise in futility: installing Windows Vista on PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Aug 2008 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hackhomebrewlinuxvistawindows-vistaTue, 05 Aug 2008 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[How-To: Share your computer's internet with the Xbox]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/05/how-to-share-your-computers-internet-with-the-xbox/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/05/how-to-share-your-computers-internet-with-the-xbox/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/05/how-to-share-your-computers-internet-with-the-xbox/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Sure, we made our own guide to help you share your Mac's internet connection with your Xbox 360, but what if you're one of the few people out there using a Windows box? If you're rocking either Mac OS X (it says here Tiger or Leopard) or Windows Vista or XP, there's a handy guide on Instructables showing you how to use that computer's internet connection to get your Xbox online. Of course, getting your Xbox online isn't much use if Live is down ...

[Thanks, WebPimp]

JoystiqHow-To: Share your computer's internet with the Xbox originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 05 Jan 2008 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>LeopardMacMac-OS-XPCRouterTigerVistaWindows-XPXbox-360Sat, 05 Jan 2008 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[XNA Game Studio 2.0 coming tomorrow, includes LIVE support]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/12/xna-game-studio-2-0-released-includes-support-for-online-play-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/12/xna-game-studio-2-0-released-includes-support-for-online-play-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/12/xna-game-studio-2-0-released-includes-support-for-online-play-t/#commentsFiled under: ,

Aspiring game developers using Microsoft's free-to-use XNA development toolkit will be happy to know than an upgraded version, Game Studio 2.0, will be released early tomorrow, December 13. The new version sports a reported fifteen new features, among them online play through Microsoft's LIVE system.

According to the press release, "The new version ... includes the ability to create online, cross-platform multiplayer games for Xbox 360 and Windows using Xbox LIVE and Games for Windows - LIVE, respectively." We think that means cross-platforms games and multiplayer games, not cross-platform play for Xbox 360 owners wanting to duke it out with their Windows cohorts - sorry, folks, go ahead and add that to your wishlist of Studio 3.0 features. Matchmaking features, however, are integrated.

XNA Game Studio 2.0 "fully supports game development with all versions of the Microsoft Visual Studio product line." View the entire list of new features here.

JoystiqXNA Game Studio 2.0 coming tomorrow, includes LIVE support originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Dec 2007 22:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BreakingNewsmicrosoftPCvistawindowsXbox-360xnaxpWed, 12 Dec 2007 22:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Shadowrun patched [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/25/shadowrun-title-update-due-next-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/25/shadowrun-title-update-due-next-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/25/shadowrun-title-update-due-next-week/#commentsFiled under: , ,


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

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

[Via Team Xbox]

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

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>PCshadowrunupdatesvistaXbox-360xbox360Wed, 25 Jul 2007 15:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Universe at War features Xbox 360, PC cross-platform play]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/28/universe-at-war-features-xbox-360-pc-cross-platform-play/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/28/universe-at-war-features-xbox-360-pc-cross-platform-play/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/28/universe-at-war-features-xbox-360-pc-cross-platform-play/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Sega's upcoming strategy title Universe at War: Earth Assault is embracing the battle of keyboard and mouse vs. gamepad by allowing cross-platform play, joining Shadowrun and Uno as titles utilizing Microsoft's LIVE Anywhere

Can Xbox 360 owners fare well against their Windows counterparts in a largely point-and-click-centric genre? When announcing the console version, Sega VP of Marketing Steinberg lauded the gamepad control scheme but gave no details on how it works.

Universe at War is coming out for PC in late 2007 and the Xbox 360 sometime in 2008.

Gallery: Universe at War: Earth Assault

JoystiqUniverse at War features Xbox 360, PC cross-platform play originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Jun 2007 13:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>earth assaultEarthAssaultgames for windowsGamesForWindowsPCpetroglyphsegauniverse at warUniverseAtWarvistawindowsxbox liveXbox-360XboxLiveThu, 28 Jun 2007 13:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Vista-only Shadowrun cracked, playable on XP]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/vista-only-shadowrun-cracked-playable-on-xp/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/vista-only-shadowrun-cracked-playable-on-xp/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/vista-only-shadowrun-cracked-playable-on-xp/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Beating Falling Leaf to the punch, members of the hacking group Razor1911 have managed to hack the Vista-only Shadowrun to work on Windows XP, the Inquirer reports. The crack, weighing in at less than 5 MB, reportedly removes the need for DirectX 10. (No, we're not linking to it -- you can find it yourself.)

With the crack, you can only play single-player against bots or multiplayer LAN games. Falling Leaf, who has stated they will be providing free code for those who purchase the game on Amazon via their pre-order page, still estimates cracks for Vista-only Shadowrun and Halo 2 by "late July."

JoystiqVista-only Shadowrun cracked, playable on XP originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Jun 2007 17:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bungiehalohalo 2Halo2microsoftPCshadow runShadowRunvistawindowswindows xpWindowsXpxpTue, 26 Jun 2007 17:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft invests in Chinese developer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/microsoft-invests-in-chinese-developer/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/microsoft-invests-in-chinese-developer/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/microsoft-invests-in-chinese-developer/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Microsoft has purchased 15 million shares in Sichuan, China-based Changhong Electric Co., valued at 94 million yuan (about US $12 million). That's just one percent off the company, according to the Taipei Times.

Said Microsoft spokesman in Beijing Roger Chen, the two companies will explore "a wide range of scenarios for digital entertainment needs ... The project focuses on in-home network digital entertainment -- how to connect PCs, TVs and the Internet to provide this digital entertainment experience."

The first thought that comes to our mind is the Xbox 360, Microsoft's most prominent living room entertainment device, and potentially is related to their IPTV service. No concrete details have been given about the project, so consider this all speculation at the moment.

JoystiqMicrosoft invests in Chinese developer originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Jun 2007 03:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chang hongChangHongchinaiptvmicrosoftPCtelevisionvistawindowsXbox-360xpTue, 19 Jun 2007 03:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Call of Duty dev rejects Live Anywhere]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/15/call-of-duty-dev-rejects-live-anywhere/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/15/call-of-duty-dev-rejects-live-anywhere/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/15/call-of-duty-dev-rejects-live-anywhere/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Infinity Ward's studio head Grant Collier, who we reported yesterday was unhappy with the overuse of sandbox gameplay and destructible environments, told IGN in an interview that there was no interest in using Live Anywhere for PC and Xbox 360 cross-play.

The Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare developer put it bluntly: "We said no and they didn't call back." Clarifying, Collier said "[it's cool] if you're playing online poker, but who wants to be playing an RTS on a console and have some guy on a PC clicking and dragging all his troops, attacking your base while you're sitting there with your thumb sticks." The keyboard/mouse vs. gamepad argument is a long-standing battle, and clearly Collier feels that they cannot be equals for fast-paced strategy or first-person shooter titles.

Live Anywhere is currently in use by Halo 2 (update: nevermind), Shadowrun and the action-packed Uno.

JoystiqCall of Duty dev rejects Live Anywhere originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Jun 2007 18:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>call of dutycall of duty 4CallOfDutyCallOfDuty4infinity wardInfinityWardlive anywhereLiveAnywheremodern warfareModernWarfarePCvistawindowsxbox liveXbox-360XboxLiveFri, 15 Jun 2007 18:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Shadowrun demo on Xbox delayed until tomorrow]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/06/shadowrun-demo-delayed-until-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/06/shadowrun-demo-delayed-until-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/06/shadowrun-demo-delayed-until-tomorrow/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Shadowrun demo that was supposed to be out today on the Xbox 360 has been delayed by a day. According to the Shadowrun forums the hiccup will cause the demo to release at 2AM Pacific time -- how's that for nailing down a time?

The demo will include three training chapters, bot and online match, two races, a little magic, a little tech and a whole lot of weaponry. Here will be your chance to check out the not-so-well received title which released on Vista and Xbox 360 last week.

[Via GamingTalkHQ, Thanks Alex]

JoystiqShadowrun demo on Xbox delayed until tomorrow originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jun 2007 19:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>delaydemoshadowrunvistaXbox-360xbox360Wed, 06 Jun 2007 19:35:00 EST<![CDATA[New games this week: Halo 2 Vista finally arrives edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/28/new-games-this-week-halo-2-vista-finally-arrives/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/28/new-games-this-week-halo-2-vista-finally-arrives/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/28/new-games-this-week-halo-2-vista-finally-arrives/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Another week, another batch of games to steal your time and money in exchange for a few moments of fun. We love it. The big news comes from two magic words under the PC release list: Halo 2. After several delays, including the most recent one involving nudity, Vista owners can finally get their Halo on.

Adventure gamers also have something to celebrate this week, as Secrets of Atlantis is hitting the PC in just a few days. Finally, Surf's Up is ready to make a huge splash, drenching every console with its fishy movie tie-in stench.

Read on for a few dozen other excuses to play hooky.

Gallery: Halo 2 (Windows Vista)

Continue reading New games this week: Halo 2 Vista finally arrives edition

JoystiqNew games this week: Halo 2 Vista finally arrives edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 May 2007 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DShalo2newgamesPCPS2PS3PSPvistaWiiXbox-360Mon, 28 May 2007 12:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Today's most comparative game videos: Crysis DirectX]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/26/todays-most-comparative-game-videos-crysis-directx/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/26/todays-most-comparative-game-videos-crysis-directx/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/26/todays-most-comparative-game-videos-crysis-directx/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


If you can geek out to API advancements, we salute you. Today's video picks compare DirectX 9 and the messiah DirectX 10 with Crysis footage. Yes, we can actually see a difference in the clips, and GameTrailers provides big, non-embedable HD files on its site.

Will Crysis be the best-looking game ever, and will it require a DX10 system -- and, of course, Vista -- to earn that title? We've seen "best-looking game ever" mugs at a mall kiosk and will set one aside for the game's release later this year. (Don't let us down, Crysis. We could end up taunting you by giving it to the Wii.)

See the videos after the break.

Continue reading Today's most comparative game videos: Crysis DirectX

JoystiqToday's most comparative game videos: Crysis DirectX originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 26 May 2007 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cryenginecrysiscrytekdirectxdirectx10dx10fpsgraphicsPCvistawindows vistaWindowsVistaSat, 26 May 2007 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo 2 Vista delayed because of "partial nudity"]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/25/halo-2-vista-delayed-because-of-partial-nudity/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/25/halo-2-vista-delayed-because-of-partial-nudity/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/25/halo-2-vista-delayed-because-of-partial-nudity/#commentsFiled under: ,


Whoops! So, Halo 2 missed both of its Vista release dates, also missing the opportunity to be called the first Games for Windows Live-enabled title (that honor now belongs to Shadowrun). Their first excuse was the relatively banal: we need to "make some improvements to the install experience and address other technical issues." Their newest excuse? Oh, it's much juicier than that. According to GameDaily BIZ, this second delay was due to "an unfortunate, obscure content error which includes partial nudity." Oh yeah, cue the chanting monks, we're imagining some Hot Coffee style minigames with Master Chief and the Arbiter.

Microsoft has updated the packaging and is making a patch available at Halo2.com to remove the content in question. Future releases will have the content removed. What was the content? Do you really want to know? According to the ESRB: "a photograph of an individual showing his bare backside to the user when a particular error occurs." Oh Microsoft, you could have made this so much more scandalous if you only tried harder.

JoystiqHalo 2 Vista delayed because of "partial nudity" originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 May 2007 13:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BungiedelayHalo2nudityPCVistaFri, 25 May 2007 13:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamestop places 16 in Barron's top companies list]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/14/gamestop-places-16-in-barrons-top-companies-list/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/14/gamestop-places-16-in-barrons-top-companies-list/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/14/gamestop-places-16-in-barrons-top-companies-list/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Based on "cash-flow returns on investment," Barron's magazine (subscription required) has placed Gamestop at 16 in their list of the top 500 U.S. and Canadian companies. The infamous game retailer received an 'A' for increasing sales growth and an 'A' for 52-week stock growth, ultimately earning a grade of 3.5 out of 4.0.

The hype surrounding the console launches was listed as a contributing factor -- and may we also add their massive profit margin with used game sales. Other games industry business Microsoft made the list at 21 with a 3.25 grade, earning a 'B' in stock growth and a 'C' for slowing growth. The period of preparedness prior to the Vista launch was cited as reasons the company did not rank higher.

Barron's also recently listed Nintendo's Satoru Iwata among the world's best CEOs.

JoystiqGamestop places 16 in Barron's top companies list originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 May 2007 17:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>barronbarron'sgame stopGameStopmicrosoftPCvistaXbox-360Mon, 14 May 2007 17:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo 2 for Windows Vista bumped back to May 22]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/08/halo-2-for-windows-vista-bumped-back-to-may-22/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/08/halo-2-for-windows-vista-bumped-back-to-may-22/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/08/halo-2-for-windows-vista-bumped-back-to-may-22/#commentsFiled under: ,


It's May 8th. Today marks the anniversary of Ghandi's 21-day fast and VE Day, the births of luminaries like Saul Bass and Edmund Wilson, and (to a somewhat lesser extent) the planned release of Halo 2 for Windows Vista. Unfortunately, that date is ... well, it's today and Halo 2 is not in our weekly round-up of new games releases signifying its absence on retailers yearning shelves. The rationale: Microsoft needed to "make some improvements to the install experience and address other technical issues."

The new release date is May 22nd, which of course marks the seventeenth anniversary of the release of the Windows 3.0 operating system. Now there's some corporate synergy for you! But what about May 16th ... what happens on May 16th again? Ah, Pierce Brosnan's birthday. We knew it was important.

JoystiqHalo 2 for Windows Vista bumped back to May 22 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 May 2007 15:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>G4WHalo2PCVistaTue, 08 May 2007 15:52:00 EST<![CDATA[Business Week: Sony ranks 10th in Most Innovative Companies]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/04/business-week-sony-ranks-10th-in-most-innovative-companies/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/04/business-week-sony-ranks-10th-in-most-innovative-companies/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/04/business-week-sony-ranks-10th-in-most-innovative-companies/#commentsBusiness Week just published their yearly list of 'The 50 Most Innovative Companies', and Sony came in at number 10. They seemed particularly impressed with Home, stating:

"This traditional tech hardware maker is devoting more resources to software. To turn its PlayStation 3 console from living-room box to virtual gateway, it created a 3D online world that simulates the real one."

Sony beat out Nintendo, who came in at a lowly 39th, but lost out to Microsoft, who came in 5th on the strength of the Vista launch. Apple dominated them all though, staying in first place for the third year in a row.

JoystiqBusiness Week: Sony ranks 10th in Most Innovative Companies originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 May 2007 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applebusiness weekBusinessWeekhomemicrosoftnintendoplaystation 3Playstation3ps3sonyvistaFri, 04 May 2007 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo 2 graphics comparision: Xbox vs Vista]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/26/halo-2-graphics-comparision-xbox-vs-vista/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/26/halo-2-graphics-comparision-xbox-vs-vista/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/26/halo-2-graphics-comparision-xbox-vs-vista/#commentsFiled under:


True Xbox fanboys have already played Halo 2 so much that the game disc has started to warp, but our PC friends are just getting a taste of what it has to offer with the release of Halo 2 on Windows Vista. And with a Vista release, Halo 2 received a graphical upgrade with crisper textures and sleeker models. Don't believe us? The Gamespot crew posted a graphical comparison of Halo 2, pitting the Xbox version against its newer Vista cousin. The screenshots make it more than obvious that there is a startling contrast between the muddy Xbox graphics and the higher res Vista screens. And why shouldn't the game look prettier on Vista? Though, you have to remember that this is a port, so the graphics weren't majorly reworked. They were just kicked up a notch or two. Anyone using Vista and thinking about getting Halo 2 or will you be holding out a few more months for some Halo 3?

[Via Digg]

JoystiqHalo 2 graphics comparision: Xbox vs Vista originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Apr 2007 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-IndustriesbungieBungie-StudiosFPShalohalo 2halo 2 vistahalo 3Halo-2Halo2Halo2VistaHalo3Microsoft-Game-Studiosvistawindows vistaWindowsVistaThu, 26 Apr 2007 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DX10 on the cheap: NVIDIA GeForce 8600 and 8500]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/10/dx10-on-the-cheap-nvidia-geforce-8600-and-8500/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/10/dx10-on-the-cheap-nvidia-geforce-8600-and-8500/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/10/dx10-on-the-cheap-nvidia-geforce-8600-and-8500/#commentsFiled under:


Despite what John Romero thinks, the PC gaming world has a long ways to go before it can match a dedicated gaming console on a dollar per graphical gewgaw basis. Thankfully, in just one week, dedicated (and subsequently cash poor) PC gamers will be able to upgrade their boxen to Microsoft's double digit DirectX 10 for a lot less loot with the introduction of the GeForce 8600 GTS, 8600 GT and 8500 GT cards. The cards, retailing at $199-$229, $149-$159, and $89-$129 respectively, help bring DX10 home for a lot less than the current (and only) DX10 card, the princely GeForce 8800. Any Vista early adopters upgrading their cards?

[Via Engadget]

JoystiqDX10 on the cheap: NVIDIA GeForce 8600 and 8500 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Apr 2007 16:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DirectX10GeforceNvidiaPCVistaTue, 10 Apr 2007 16:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Finally, Halo 2 Vista achievements revealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/09/finally-halo-2-vista-achievements-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/09/finally-halo-2-vista-achievements-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/09/finally-halo-2-vista-achievements-revealed/#commentsFiled under:

Even though Halo 3 is heading to the Xbox 360 this Fall, PC gamers will just be getting their first taste of Halo 2 next month. And, as an added bonus, those PC gamers who buy Halo 2 on Vista will get something Xbox gamers didn't, achievements. MyGamerCard.net discovered all 41 achievements for Halo 2 Vista that range from progressing in the single player campaign to all kinds of multiplayer honors. Overall, we think the achievements are pretty average and in some cases a tad unbalanced, but there is a wide variety so we can't complain too much. Take a look at Bungie's first foray into the achievement world, make the jump for the full list of Halo 2 Vista achievements.

JoystiqFinally, Halo 2 Vista achievements revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Apr 2007 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementsbungiebungie studiosBungieStudioshalo 2halo 2 vistaHalo2Halo2Vistavistawindows vistaWindowsVistaMon, 09 Apr 2007 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft: Vista sells 20 million, Microsoft Watch: We don't buy it]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/27/microsoft-says-vista-sells-20-million-microsoft-watch-doesnt-b/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/27/microsoft-says-vista-sells-20-million-microsoft-watch-doesnt-b/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/27/microsoft-says-vista-sells-20-million-microsoft-watch-doesnt-b/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Microsoft says that Windows Vista sold 20 million copies in its first month of release, besting Windows XP's 17 million copies in its first two months. Engadget softens some of the press release spin, noting that 239 million PCs sold globally in 2006, so 20 million isn't a shock. But Microsoft Watch dismantles the original claim with a detailed editorial.

Microsoft Watch says that Microsoft has counted sales beginning late last year before the general-public launch. The editorial also notes that license sales in the channel shouldn't count -- the "shipped" versus "sold" debate. Finally, analysts don't agree with the total.

While Vista's sales numbers are being questioned, the OS is clearly going to end up on most PCs sooner or later, and the gaming world has had mixed reactions. Some developers have criticized the new OS, and some gamers have had initial driver problems. Hopefully Vista updates will fix any final issues for early adopters.

Read -- Stacking Vista Licenses Too High
Read -- Windows Vista Debuts with Strong Global Sales

JoystiqMicrosoft: Vista sells 20 million, Microsoft Watch: We don't buy it originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 Mar 2007 15:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftmicrosoft watchMicrosoftWatchoperating systemOperatingSystemosPCvistawindows vistaWindowsVistaTue, 27 Mar 2007 15:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Valve questions Microsoft's PC gaming initiative]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/12/valve-questions-microsofts-pc-gaming-initiative/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/12/valve-questions-microsofts-pc-gaming-initiative/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/12/valve-questions-microsofts-pc-gaming-initiative/#commentsFiled under: , ,

g4wValve marketing manager Doug Lombardi has questioned Microsoft's new commitment to PC gaming during a recent interview with GamesIndustry.biz. "Right now it seems like [Games for Windows is] part of the marketing push to help Vista," criticized Lombardi, adding, "To really back a platform is a sustained effort over years and years, so we'll see if in two years Microsoft is still spending money to put Games for Windows sections in retail, and having PR people preach that message that the PC isn't dying".

But this isn't a desperate call for loyalty. Lombardi appears confident that the PC gaming industry will continue to flourish with or without Games for Windows. "If you took World of Warcraft, Steam, PopCap and added it to the PC pool, all these huge revenues -- just WoW by itself, right? If you took WoW's 2006 revenues and the 360's revenues and compared them, even then you would say I don't think the PC's really dead."

Lombardi's remarks are a reminder to Microsoft that PC gaming has apparently thrived without a "team" name. While not quite threatening, there's an aggressive overtone in Lombardi's words; a "check yo'self" sorta vibe. Valve's marketing manager is certainly not alone in his skepticism of Microsoft's motives. There's no denying that Games for Windows is being used to promote the launch of Vista -- but will the commitment last beyond the initial push? The answer to that seems obvious: As long as the money is good.

JoystiqValve questions Microsoft's PC gaming initiative originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Mar 2007 12:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>GamesForWindowsMicrosoftPCValveVistaWindowsMon, 12 Mar 2007 12:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo 2 Achievements for Vista]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/08/halo-2-achievements-for-vista/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/08/halo-2-achievements-for-vista/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/08/halo-2-achievements-for-vista/#commentsFiled under: , ,

In a recent blog entry by Hired Gun, the MGS team responsible for bringing Halo 2 for Vista posted recently regarding the 41 Achievements the game will have. They cover the easy ones and the difficult ones the put in, from sticking your first enemy in multiplayer to killing someone who beat the game on Legendary to playing through the single player campaign without dying, although they didn't specify the difficulty required. Interestingly enough Silver members, while able to play multiplayer in Halo 2 Vista, they won't be able to unlock Achievements online or use the matchmaking, while Gold members get the full course. So, do you plan on taking your Xbox 360 account over to the land of mouse and keyboard to get Halo 2 Achievements?

JoystiqHalo 2 Achievements for Vista originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Mar 2007 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-IndustriesAchievementsBungieBungie-StudiosFPSHaloHalo 2Halo 2 AchievementsHalo 2 VistaHalo-2Halo2Halo2AchievementsHalo2VistaMicrosoft-Game-StudiosVistaWindows LiveWindows VistaWindowsLiveWindowsVistaXbox LiveXboxLiveThu, 08 Mar 2007 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Geometry Wars Vista available on MSN Games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/07/geometry-wars-vista-available-on-msn-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/07/geometry-wars-vista-available-on-msn-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/07/geometry-wars-vista-available-on-msn-games/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

geometry warsMicrosoft be a cold pimp, turning out its Xbox Live Arcade darling onto the uncharted streets of Windows Vista. There's no crawling into bed with a trusted XP customer for this version of Geometry Wars: Retro Evolved. Vista-only.

For its sake, Geometry Wars won't be working the MSN corner alone, as it's joined by fellow newcomers Bliss Island and Crystal Quest. The cost might have gone up (from $5 on XBLA to $7.95), but the experience will be over just as fast for the average john (patience, it takes practice) -- do remember to bring your Xbox 360 controller for an authentic experience. Play safe, folks.

JoystiqGeometry Wars Vista available on MSN Games originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Mar 2007 22:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActionArcadeBizarreBizarre-CreationsGeometry-WarsGeometry-Wars-Retro-EvolvedMicrosoftMSNPCShmupVistaWindowsXBLAXbox-360Wed, 07 Mar 2007 22:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Live for Windows priced, XBL accounts confirmed to work on Vista]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/07/live-for-windows-priced-xbl-accounts-confirmed-to-work-on-vista/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/07/live-for-windows-priced-xbl-accounts-confirmed-to-work-on-vista/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/07/live-for-windows-priced-xbl-accounts-confirmed-to-work-on-vista/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Microsoft revealed yesterday the pricing for Live for Windows, the Vista equivalent to Xbox Live. The pricing plan is identical to Xbox Live: a Silver membership will be free and Gold will cost you either $8 for one month, $20 for three months or $50 for a full year, according to Game Informer.

Appropriately, Xbox Live Gold members will be able to use their accounts to enjoy the Live for Windows features on their home PCs (and presumably vice versa). Some casual games and Halo 2 for Vista will reportedly add to your gamerscore. We don't have any details on how exactly gamers will benefit from a Gold account over a Silver one (other than Shadowrun cross-platform play), but hopefully Microsoft will stick to the modus operandi of PC gaming and keep non-MMOs free to play online multiplayer.

JoystiqLive for Windows priced, XBL accounts confirmed to work on Vista originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Mar 2007 15:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gdcgdc 07Gdc07live for windowsLiveForWindowsmicrosoftPCvistawindowswindows vistaWindowsVistaxblaxbox liveXbox-360XboxLiveWed, 07 Mar 2007 15:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Today's worldliest game video: Xbox 360 Controller + Virtual Earth]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/27/todays-worldliest-game-video-xbox-360-controller-virtual-ear/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/27/todays-worldliest-game-video-xbox-360-controller-virtual-ear/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/27/todays-worldliest-game-video-xbox-360-controller-virtual-ear/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Video: Using Xbox Controller for Live Search Maps

We'll be starting to think about abandoning our mice altogether if things get as simple as this video makes them seem. Using the Xbox 360 Controller and optionally the Xbox 360 Wireless Gaming Receiver for Windows (good grief that's a mouthful), you can whiz in and out of Virtual Earth just like Hiro Protagonist in 'Snow Crash'.

It's like using the controller and turning the whole planet into one giant version of Flight Simulator. We knew that game would come back in a big way sooner or later. Next stop, Virtual Solar System.

JoystiqToday's worldliest game video: Xbox 360 Controller + Virtual Earth originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 Feb 2007 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Flight SimulatorPCVirtual EarthVirtualEarthVistaWindows VistaXboxXbox 360Xbox 360 ControllerXbox 360 Wireless Gaming ReceiverXbox-360Tue, 27 Feb 2007 00:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix confirms new MMO for Xbox 360 & Vista, maybe PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/08/square-enix-confirms-new-mmo-for-xbox-360-and-vista-maybe-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/08/square-enix-confirms-new-mmo-for-xbox-360-and-vista-maybe-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/08/square-enix-confirms-new-mmo-for-xbox-360-and-vista-maybe-ps3/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

fall in love all over again...Speaking to Pro-G, Square Enix producer Hiromichi Tanaka confirmed that he was working on a new MMORPG bound for Xbox 360 and Windows Vista, adding "PS3 is a possibility." Ten months ago, Tanaka was saying just the opposite about the oft-hinted at MMO -- probably a sequel to Final Fantasy XI; possibly not. In April 2006, Tanaka confirmed the project for PlayStation 3, but made no mention of an Xbox 360 version. Now it would appear that development has shifted away from PS3 and onto Xbox 360.

Since Square Enix has already promised several versions of Final Fantasy XIII for PS3, it's in the company's interest, as a publisher concerned with multi-platform presence, to bring its next MMO to Xbox 360 first; a PS3 version could always come later. The project could also provide an opportunity to make use of Square Enix's recently acquired Unreal Engine 3 license.

JoystiqSquare Enix confirms new MMO for Xbox 360 & Vista, maybe PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Feb 2007 15:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>360Final FantasyFinalFantasyMMORPGPCPS3Square EnixSquareEnixVistaWindowsXbox 360Xbox-360Xbox360Thu, 08 Feb 2007 15:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft, MSN game devs to share in-game ad revenue]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/08/microsoft-msn-game-devs-to-share-in-game-ad-revenue/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/08/microsoft-msn-game-devs-to-share-in-game-ad-revenue/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/08/microsoft-msn-game-devs-to-share-in-game-ad-revenue/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Developers for titles hosted by MSN Games can now expect to have an extra outlet of income, care of Microsoft. The House of Gates is promising to share portion of the revenue earned from in-game advertisement generated by a title to the respective game maker. The model is divided between two tiers:
  • Level I: developer will be given ten percent of the ad revenue, no obligations necessary
  • Level II: developer will earn 20 percent of the revenue, but their game must be submitted to the ESRB for a rating. The title must also provide a "deluxe experience" lasting at least 10 hours.
Of course, if a developer is willing to place advertisements within its title, then there's no reason to avoid an ESRB rating and not earn the extra ten percent -- we imagine "deluxe experience" is a subjective term, as we could theoretically make Text Twist and ten hour game.

There's an added bonus for Microsoft concerning this business model, in that the more ESRB-rated games it has, the easier it will be for Windows Vista to properly filter content in tune to the Parental Control settings. The only outlet currently mentioned is MSN Games, but how long until this business permeates through Xbox Live Marketplace?

JoystiqMicrosoft, MSN game devs to share in-game ad revenue originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Feb 2007 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adadvertisementigain-game advertisingIn-gameAdvertisingmicrosoftmsnmsn gamesMsnGamesPCvistawindowsXbox-360Thu, 08 Feb 2007 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[News flash: Microsoft still publishing Alan Wake]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/07/news-flash-microsoft-still-publishing-alan-wake/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/07/news-flash-microsoft-still-publishing-alan-wake/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/07/news-flash-microsoft-still-publishing-alan-wake/#commentsFiled under: ,

The gaming blogosphere has been absolutely abuzz over the past few days over reports that Remedy's psychological thriller Alan Wake has been picked up by Microsoft and will be published exclusively on the Xbox 360 and PC. This story isn't odd because it's untrue, it's odd because we've known about it for months.

While Microsoft announced a publishing deal with Finland's Remedy Entertainment back at E3 2006, the relationship is getting a new focus now thanks to an article in Finland's Helsingin Sanomat. While there's nothing really newsworthy in the article, it does take an interesting look at the challenges of an American company working with a Finnish developer. But that headline doesn't really pop, so we'll follow the lead of our blogging brethren and hype up some news that was already old six months ago. Hooray!

JoystiqNews flash: Microsoft still publishing Alan Wake originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Feb 2007 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Alan WakeAlanWakeExclusiveMicrosoftold newsOldNewsPCremedyVistaXbox 360Xbox-360Xbox360Wed, 07 Feb 2007 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Atari to publish The Witcher]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/05/atari-to-publish-the-witcher/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/05/atari-to-publish-the-witcher/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/05/atari-to-publish-the-witcher/#commentsFiled under: , ,

the witcherAtari has extended its deal with CD Projekt, agreeing to publish the Polish developer's action-RPG The Witcher in North America; in addition to Europe and Asia. Based on Polish author Andrzej Sapkowski's Blood of the Elves book series, The Witcher (originally, Wied?min) was first unveiled in June 2003 and made subsequent appearances at E3 each of the following years. The game utilizes a modified version of BioWare's Aurora Engine and is said to blend fast-paced combat with a twisting storyline driven by players' decisions.

The Witcher's relevance in North America is crippled by a lack of English-translated Sapkowski work (only one short story collection has been translated; to be published in April). Even the awkward name witcher is lost on English-speaking audiences (Sapkowski actually prefers his word to be translated as hexer). Wied?min is derived from the polish word for "witch" (wied?ma), and, as Sapkowski imagined, was invented by magicians as a derogatory term used to describe sterile mutants with (supposedly limited) supernatural abilities. In the game, players are Geralt, Sapkowski's legendary monster slayer, who is a witcher -- "The Witcher."

The Witcher is scheduled for release in North America this fall under the Games for Windows brand, and will be compatible with Windows XP and Vista.

Gallery: The Witcher

JoystiqAtari to publish The Witcher originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Feb 2007 17:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActionAtariAurora EngineAuroraEngineBioWareCD ProjektCD-ProjektCdProjektGames for WindowsGamesForWindowsPCRPGThe-WitcherVistaWiedźminWindowsXPMon, 05 Feb 2007 17:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Japanese Hardware Sales: 22 Jan - 28 Jan: Upgraded Edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/02/japanese-hardware-sales-22-jan-28-jan-upgraded-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/02/japanese-hardware-sales-22-jan-28-jan-upgraded-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/02/japanese-hardware-sales-22-jan-28-jan-upgraded-edition/#commentsFiled under:

Ubuntu
You've been living in the past, dear readers. We apologize for the wait, but our new Japanese Hardware Sales 2.0 upgrade has been in development for sixteen years.

JHS 2.0 has a myriad of powerful features, available for use in the home as well as anywhere that is not your home. One look will stun you, as new advanced 3-D graphics highlight the numbers as never before. New, fluid animation enhances your overall experience by tenfold! And finally, our favorite new feature: numerical base alterations. The system hacks the internet and builds a personality database based on daily porn site visitations and illegal torrenting. It then selects a numerical base which it has deemed optimal. Our programs have shown that your optimal viewing base is in fact

thirteen

and thus, the numbers below will be automatically altered from their standard base ten format. We hope you enjoy the next wave of Japanese Hardware Sales!

If you'd like to see the old, outdated version of the sales numbers, click after the break.



aa---------------------------------------------------
aa/aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaalaaaaaaaaa/|
a/aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaalaaaaaall/a|
/------------------------------------------------/aa|
| - DS Lite: 6A,707 24,597aaaaaaaa|aal|
| - Wii: 2C,178 1,282aaaaaaaaaaaa|aal|
| - PSP: 13,332 7B6aaaaaaaaaaalal|aal|
| - PS2: 9,730 4B7aaaaaaaaaaaalal|aal|
| - PS3: 9,142 674aaaaaaaaaaarraf|aal|
| - Xbox 360: 3,477 1BCaaaaaaallla|aal|
| - Game Boy Micro: 6C7 40Baaaraa|aal|
| - GBA SP: 609 2A7aaaaaaaaaalaa|aal|
| - Gamecube: 209 12Caaaraaaaaa|aa/
| - DS Phat: 64 32aaaaaaaaaaaaar|al/
| - GBA: 28 48aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaar|a/
------------------------------------------------/

Also see: Joystiq's Weekly Sales Charts

Continue reading Japanese Hardware Sales: 22 Jan - 28 Jan: Upgraded Edition

JoystiqJapanese Hardware Sales: 22 Jan - 28 Jan: Upgraded Edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Feb 2007 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EditionGraphicsHardwareJapaneseSalesUpgradeVistaWindowsFri, 02 Feb 2007 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Japanese Hardware Sales: 22 Jan - 28 Jan: Upgraded Edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/02/japanese-hardware-sales-22-jan-28-jan-upgraded-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/02/japanese-hardware-sales-22-jan-28-jan-upgraded-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/02/japanese-hardware-sales-22-jan-28-jan-upgraded-edition/#commentsFiled under:

Ubuntu
You've been living in the past, dear readers. We apologize for the wait, but our new Japanese Hardware Sales 2.0 upgrade has been in development for sixteen years.

JHS 2.0 has a myriad of powerful features, available for use in the home as well as anywhere that is not your home. One look will stun you, as new advanced 3-D graphics highlight the numbers as never before. New, fluid animation enhances your overall experience by tenfold! And finally, our favorite new feature: numerical base alterations. The system hacks the internet and builds a personality database based on daily porn site visitations and illegal torrenting. It then selects a numerical base which it has deemed optimal. Our programs have shown that your optimal viewing base is in fact

thirteen

and thus, the numbers below will be automatically altered from their standard base ten format. We hope you enjoy the next wave of Japanese Hardware Sales!

If you'd like to see the old, outdated version of the sales numbers, click after the break.



aa---------------------------------------------------
aa/aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaalaaaaaaaaa/|
a/aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaalaaaaaall/a|
/------------------------------------------------/aa|
| - DS Lite: 6A,707 24,597aaaaaaa|aal|
| - Wii: 2C,178 1,282aaaaaaaaaaa|aal|
| - PSP: 13,332 7B6aaaaaaaaaalal|aal|
| - PS2: 9,730 4B7aaaaaaaaaaalal|aal|
| - PS3: 9,142 674aaaaaaaaaarraf|aal|
| - Xbox 360: 3,477 1BCaaaaaallla|aal|
| - Game Boy Micro: 6C7 40Baaraa|aal|
| - GBA SP: 609 2A7aaaaaaaaalaa|aal|
| - Gamecube: 209 12Caaaraaaaa|ala/
| - DS Phat: 64 32aaaaaaaaaaaar|ar/
| - GBA: 28 48aaaaaaaaaaaaaaar|a/
------------------------------------------------/

Also see: Joystiq's Weekly Sales Charts

Continue reading Japanese Hardware Sales: 22 Jan - 28 Jan: Upgraded Edition

JoystiqJapanese Hardware Sales: 22 Jan - 28 Jan: Upgraded Edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Feb 2007 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EditionGraphicsHardwareJapaneseSalesUpgradeVistaWindowsFri, 02 Feb 2007 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Darwinia upgrades for Vista]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/01/darwinia-upgrades-for-vista/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/01/darwinia-upgrades-for-vista/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/01/darwinia-upgrades-for-vista/#commentsFiled under: ,

Introversion, the little game maker whose project Darwinia garnered them cult status, has just released an enhanced version specifically for Windows Vista. The upgrade has been in the making since June 2006, according to Introversion co-founder Chris Delay. Upgrades include:
  • Shift from OpenGL to DirectX, which enable enhanced visuals such as "screen warping explosion effects, reflective water, and Darwinian soul 'auras.'"
  • Support for the Xbox 360 controller
  • Three new levels: Jailbreak, Stronghold and Doomsday
  • Other Vista-centric compatibility features
Those who already own Darwinia can expect an upcoming patch that adds all the enhancements. For those that want to try out the game (and we wholly recommend that you do), Darwinia has been given a prominent purchase location MSN Vista games page for $19.95.

Introversion is currently working on a double secret title codenamed Subversion.

[Via CVG]

JoystiqDarwinia upgrades for Vista originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 01 Feb 2007 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chris delayChrisDelaydarwiniaintro versionIntroVersionPCvistawindowsThu, 01 Feb 2007 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Vista casual game problems are 'grossly overstated']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/01/vista-casual-game-problems-are-grossly-overstated/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/01/vista-casual-game-problems-are-grossly-overstated/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/01/vista-casual-game-problems-are-grossly-overstated/#commentsFiled under: ,

Earlier this week, WildTangent CEO, Alex St. John, lashed out against Windows Vista and claimed that most casual games were drowing in the moat surrounding the operating system's impenetrable castle. With many downloadable titles lacking official ESRB ratings, St. John suggested that Vista's security architecture was blocking all manner of family friendly games, including titles from MSN, AOL and Yahoo.

In a communication with TG Daily, Microsoft has responded to these claims, labeling them as "grossly overstated." Rick Wickham, director of Games for Windows, notes that "a fraction of casual games are encountering temporary upgrade issues - a situation we have largely corrected and are committed to fixing within days." He goes on to say that out of the 100-plus MSN casual games available, only five have displayed problems in working with Vista. Those issues are expected to be resolved by the end of the week.

JoystiqVista casual game problems are 'grossly overstated' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 01 Feb 2007 13:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Casual gamingCasualGamingMicrosoft WindowsMicrosoftWindowsPCVistaWildTangentWindows VistaWindowsVistaThu, 01 Feb 2007 13:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Vista update improves "legacy" game support]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/31/vista-update-improves-legacy-game-support/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/31/vista-update-improves-legacy-game-support/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/31/vista-update-improves-legacy-game-support/#commentsFiled under: ,

vista patchedMicrosoft has rolled out a Vista software update that, in part, addresses compatibility issues associated with certain "legacy" games. The update is not a response to Alex St. John's accusation that Vista's tight security could block popular online casual game networks; those remarks have been generally discredited.

The update improves support for the following titles: Age of Empires III (and The WarChiefs Expansion Pack), Battlefield 2 Deluxe, Dungeon Siege II, Dungeon Siege: Legends of Aranna, Fable: The Lost Chapters, Family Feud Online, Flight Simulator X, Lego Star Wars, Rise of Nations: Rise of Legends, and Zoo Tycoon 2 (and the African Adventure, Endangered Species, Marine Mania, and Zookeeper Collection Expansion Packs).

[Via CVG]

JoystiqVista update improves "legacy" game support originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 31 Jan 2007 13:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>PatchPCSoftwareUpdateVistaWindowsWed, 31 Jan 2007 13:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Vista security too tight on casual games, claims WildTangent]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/30/vista-security-too-tight-on-casual-games-claims-wildtangent/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/30/vista-security-too-tight-on-casual-games-claims-wildtangent/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/30/vista-security-too-tight-on-casual-games-claims-wildtangent/#commentsFiled under: ,

brokedDirectX creator Alex St. John says Windows Vista "breaks" casual games. The WildTangent CEO recently described the arduous process of patching his company's network of games to ensure Vista compatibility. The effort reportedly took a year of working closely with "nearly every major casual game developer."

"Parents who choose to use Vista's parental controls are likely to accidentally block access to hundreds of very popular family friendly games that happen not to have ESRB ratings," explained St. John. Casual game networks hosted by Yahoo, AOL, RealArcade, and even Microsoft (MSN Games) could all be affected, according to St. John. Microsoft has yet to comment on the allegations.

It should be noted that WildTangent's software is often denoted as spyware by antispyware applications. While the software is generally regarded as harmless, it's often installed without express consent (and remains self-updating); WildTangent also reserves the right to collect personal information for use in tuning its products.

JoystiqVista security too tight on casual games, claims WildTangent originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 30 Jan 2007 11:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AOLCasualDirectXMicrosoftMSNPCRealArcadeSpywareVistaWildTangentWindowsYahooTue, 30 Jan 2007 11:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Bill Gates headed for Daily Show on Monday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/26/bill-gates-headed-for-daily-show-on-monday/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/26/bill-gates-headed-for-daily-show-on-monday/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/26/bill-gates-headed-for-daily-show-on-monday/#commentsFiled under:

Just in time for the launch of Microsoft's new game enabled operating system, Windows Vista, Bill Gates will be on the Daily Show with Jon Stewart on Monday. We imagine Billy boy will take a little time to tout the success of the Xbox 360 as well. Who knows, if we're lucky, we might even get to hear a little corporate mudslinging. That's always fun. We have to wonder if Bill will have a few choice words for John Hodgman though.

Check out the show (or set your TiVo) Monday 11:00/10:00 Central on Comedy Central.

[Via Digg]

JoystiqBill Gates headed for Daily Show on Monday originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Jan 2007 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bill gatesBillGatescomedy centralComedyCentraldaily showdaily show with jon stewartDailyShowDailyShowWithJonStewartgatesjon stewartJonStewartvistawindows vistaWindowsVistaFri, 26 Jan 2007 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The future of Xbox Live, you decide]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/17/the-future-of-xbox-live-you-decide/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/17/the-future-of-xbox-live-you-decide/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/17/the-future-of-xbox-live-you-decide/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

person of the yearLooks like Microsoft is attempting to exploit Time's 'Person of the Year.' That's right, the Live Anywhere developer has chosen 'You' to decide its online service's fate. On his blog, Microsoft platform strategist Andre Vrignaud has called on readers to post their ideas about Xbox Live. Specifically, Vrignaud is interested in long term strategies involving the Live Anywhere initiative. What's your five-year plan?

Vrignaud does warn than any thoughts posted on his site will become public domain, adding, "If you have some ideas that you want to keep private because you think you might do something with them yourself one day, you should not post them here." Assuming you aren't harboring such grand designs, this is a great opportunity to let Microsoft know what Live is lacking. Have at it.

JoystiqThe future of Xbox Live, you decide originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Jan 2007 08:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Live AnywhereLiveAnywherePCVistaWindowsXbox LiveXbox-360XboxLiveWed, 17 Jan 2007 08:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Carmack blasts Vista gaming initiative]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/11/carmack-blasts-vista-gaming-initiative/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/11/carmack-blasts-vista-gaming-initiative/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/11/carmack-blasts-vista-gaming-initiative/#commentsFiled under: ,

nope, not gonna upgradeid Software's John Carmack isn't ready for his studio to make the jump to Windows Vista. "Nothing is going to help a new game by going to a new operating system. There were some clear wins going from Windows 95 to Windows XP for games, but there really aren't any for Vista," Carmack recently told Game Informer during a lengthy interview, which also featured id colleague Todd Hollenshead.

While Carmack remains keen on Xbox 360, he thinks the Vista initiative is bogus, accusing Microsoft of using the new OS's "artificial" tie with DirectX 10 to lure consumers (and developers). "They're really grasping at straws for reasons to upgrade the operating system. I suspect I could run XP for a great many more years without having a problem with it," concluded Carmack. Good news for those content with XP.

[Via GamesIndustry.biz]

See also: Games for Windows Vista: how the new brand & OS will change PC gaming

JoystiqCarmack blasts Vista gaming initiative originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Jan 2007 23:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CarmackDirectXDirectX 10Directx10Games for WindowsGamesForWindowsid SoftwareIdSoftwareJohn CarmackJohnCarmackPCVistaWindowsXPThu, 11 Jan 2007 23:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Today's most geometric game video: Geometry Wars PC 'Vista']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/09/todays-most-geometric-game-video-geometry-wars-pc-vista/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/09/todays-most-geometric-game-video-geometry-wars-pc-vista/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/09/todays-most-geometric-game-video-geometry-wars-pc-vista/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,


Geometry Wars: Retro Evolved has had its own little evolution, going from minigame, to full-fledged console game, and now it'll be dropping onto PCs everywhere and we've got the video to prove it. Yes, it's retro gaming action that takes you back to the land of arcade quarter-eaters like Tempest and Qix ... and it's incredibly addictive fun.

Check out the Vista version in action after the jump. It looks pretty spiffy on that monitor, or else the brightness levels are just kicked up to 11. Either way, PC users can finally toss Minesweeper and Solitaire away, because this will be the new king of the timesuck in cubicle-land.

Continue reading Today's most geometric game video: Geometry Wars PC 'Vista'

JoystiqToday's most geometric game video: Geometry Wars PC 'Vista' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Jan 2007 01:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActionarcadeawesomeBizarreBizarre-CreationsfunGames for WindowsGamesForWindowsGeometry WarsGeometry-WarsGeometry-Wars-Retro-EvolvedMicrosoftPCpuzzleretroShmupvistaWindowsXBLAXbox-360Tue, 09 Jan 2007 01:21:00 EST