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[How Viva Pinata's Choclodocus was reverse engineered]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/07/how-viva-pinatas-choclodocus-was-reverse-engineered/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/07/how-viva-pinatas-choclodocus-was-reverse-engineered/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/07/how-viva-pinatas-choclodocus-was-reverse-engineered/#comments
 You could be forgiven for not staying abreast of news related to the now year-and-a-half-old Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise. Heck, we're almost kind of relieved; you have no idea what a hassle it is to dig our "Ñ" key out of the storage shed. But scattered across the globe is a resolute fan base that's unwilling to let the game drift off to the Great Piñata Garden in the Sky. When developer Rare ran out of the Piñata Vision barcodes that injected new creatures and items into the game, the PinataIsland.info community sprung into action.

Here, community admin Jim McQuillan tells it better than us:

"Our members noticed that there were still of Piñata Vision cards that weren't available such as the Choclodocus, the big daddy of all piñatas. These members reverse engineered the barcodes on the Piñata Vision cards to discover how they worked. By comparing different species of pinatas and attempting to fill in the gaps in the barcode of the choclodocus, they eventually found success! In simple terms you can think of this like Jurassic Park where they took the dinosaur DNA and mixed it the DNA from other species of animals to fill in the gaps. It's just that our dinosaur happens to be a Choclodocus pinata instead."

Finally, the fruits of their labor, the Choclodocus Egg Pinata Vision Card, is available for your enjoyment. Just don't tell piñata Jeff Goldblum what they've wrought.

JoystiqHow Viva Pinata's Choclodocus was reverse engineered originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 07 May 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcMicrosoftpinata-visionrareviva-pinataviva-pinata-2viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseXbox-360Fri, 07 May 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rare expresses its Valentine's love with new TIP cards]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/09/rare-expresses-their-valentines-love-with-new-tip-cards/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/09/rare-expresses-their-valentines-love-with-new-tip-cards/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/09/rare-expresses-their-valentines-love-with-new-tip-cards/#commentsBeing the season of love, one of our countless admirers, developer Rare, sent over a set of scan-friendly Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise Valentine's cards, including three new Killer Instinct characters for your collection.

You can view all four new trading cards in the gallery below. Using your handy Vision camera, scan the bar code into Trouble in Paradise, then behold the magic that takes place. Warning: We have yet to scan any of the cards, so if you have an urge to invest in Ultratech or experience an unshakable infatuation with all Rare products, please, don't send your lawyers after us.

Gallery: Rare Valentine's Day Cards

JoystiqRare expresses its Valentine's love with new TIP cards originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Feb 2009 21:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>killer-instinctraretrouble-in-paradisevalentines-dayviva-pinataviva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseMon, 09 Feb 2009 21:01:00 EST<![CDATA[High calorie Banjo-Kazooie and Viva Pinata cakes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/03/high-calorie-banjo-kazooie-and-viva-pinata-cakes/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/03/high-calorie-banjo-kazooie-and-viva-pinata-cakes/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/03/high-calorie-banjo-kazooie-and-viva-pinata-cakes/#commentsFiled under: ,


Looking for a festive and fun video game themed cakes to consume or just admire? Look no further than Washington based Cake Fixation, the creators of both the Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise and Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts themed cakes you see above. Note the attention to detail, expert use of royal icing and all those yellow cutout jiggies. And that Horstachio, it's pure edible genius!

[Thanks, James C.]

JoystiqHigh calorie Banjo-Kazooie and Viva Pinata cakes originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 03 Jan 2009 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-boltsnuts-and-boltsraretrouble-in-paradiseviva-pinataviva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseSat, 03 Jan 2009 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Viva Pinata gets photoshopped, parodies Hollywood]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/16/viva-pinata-gets-photoshopped-parodies-hollywood/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/16/viva-pinata-gets-photoshopped-parodies-hollywood/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/16/viva-pinata-gets-photoshopped-parodies-hollywood/#commentsFiled under:


What's better than a cute, cuddly and candy filled Viva Pinata pinata? Easy. A cute, cuddly and candy filled Viva Pinata pinata acting out scenes from famous movies, which is exactly the treat we've been given today.

The Rare crew has been feeling extra creative lately (as evident by their lovely holiday card) and decided to put their photoshopping skills to good use by plopping pinatas into famous movie scenes. Check the gallery below to see if you can name which movies the pinatas are acting out.

Pro tip: King Kong and Saturday Night Fever are two of the scenes.

JoystiqViva Pinata gets photoshopped, parodies Hollywood originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 16 Dec 2008 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>raretrouble-in-paradiseviva-pinataviva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseTue, 16 Dec 2008 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Have a Jukebox for your Viva Pinata garden]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/24/have-a-jukebox-for-your-viva-pinata-garden/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/24/have-a-jukebox-for-your-viva-pinata-garden/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/24/have-a-jukebox-for-your-viva-pinata-garden/#commentsFiled under:


Rare has a pretty neat promotion lined up for the holidays this year. First, the company is offering Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise players a new jukebox to decorate their in-game gardens. To grab the jukebox, simply scan the Piñata Vision Card found after the break. Of course, the jukebox isn't just for decoration. From now until December 10, Piñata Island will be conducting a poll to uncover the top 10 romance dance songs. Once the songs are decided, Rare will release one a day as special Piñata Vision Cards. Don't worry if a jukebox isn't your thing, as Rare will be releasing other special cards throughout December.

Continue reading Have a Jukebox for your Viva Pinata garden

JoystiqHave a Jukebox for your Viva Pinata garden originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 24 Nov 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mgsmicrosoft-game-studiosrareviva-pinataviva-pinata-2viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseMon, 24 Nov 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[It's a Halloween themed Viva Pinata card]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/30/its-a-halloween-themed-viva-pinata-card/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/30/its-a-halloween-themed-viva-pinata-card/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/30/its-a-halloween-themed-viva-pinata-card/#commentsFiled under: ,


Halloween is almost upon us and in the land of candy-filled piñatas, they're celebrating. Piñatas are celebrating, because Halloween is the only day children opt to go door to door to get their sweets rather than beating defenseless piñata bodies.

To show their celebratory support of Halloween and the preservation of the piñata species, team Rare just released a Halloween themed piñata card that can be scanned into Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise using the Vision camera. Though, we've been warned that scanning of this card should only be done on Halloween day for a special surprise. No sooner, no later. You've been warned.

JoystiqIt's a Halloween themed Viva Pinata card originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Oct 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>rareviva-pinataviva-pinata-tipviva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseThu, 30 Oct 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Viva Killer Instinct, special cards include nostalgia]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/16/viva-killer-instinct-special-cards-include-nostalgia/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/16/viva-killer-instinct-special-cards-include-nostalgia/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/16/viva-killer-instinct-special-cards-include-nostalgia/#commentsFiled under: ,


There's nothing better than a Rare treat, is there? Rare has released three special cards to be scanned into Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise that promise "a suitable Pinata approximation of whatever is pictured." The three items pictured? Killer Instinct characters Fulgore, B. Orchid and Tusk. To access the KI pinatas, print out the cards and hold them up to your vision camera.

Let's not jump the gun and think this means a new KI is on the way, kids. Rare has mentioned they don't want to go to the IP Well before -- so, I guess that means they're filthy, filthy teases.

Gallery: Viva Pinata TIP Killer Instinct cards

JoystiqViva Killer Instinct, special cards include nostalgia originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Oct 2008 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>killer-instinctrarevision-cameraviva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseThu, 16 Oct 2008 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Viva the Trouble in Paradise and NBA 2K9 demos]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/03/viva-the-trouble-in-paradise-and-nba-2k9-demos/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/03/viva-the-trouble-in-paradise-and-nba-2k9-demos/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/03/viva-the-trouble-in-paradise-and-nba-2k9-demos/#commentsFiled under: ,


There are metric ton of titles coming out in the next few months but there have been titles released recently that warrant your attention too. Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise may seem like a revamped version of the original but with so many additions it's hard to call it Viva Pinata 1.5. Still on the fence? Check out the demo, now available on the Xbox Live Marketplace.

Sports fan? Also available on the Xbox Live Marketplace is a demo for the upcoming 2K Sports pro basketball entry, NBA 2K9. Play one 4-minute quarter as the Lakers or the Celtics in a demo that relives the first part of Game 6 from the 2008 playoffs. Not sure who to pick? The answer is the Celtics, it's always the Celtics.

JoystiqViva the Trouble in Paradise and NBA 2K9 demos originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Oct 2008 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demonba-2k9viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradisexbox-live-marketplaceFri, 03 Oct 2008 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview -- Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/03/metareview-viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/03/metareview-viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/03/metareview-viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-xbox-360/#commentsFiled under: , ,

In the terrible glut expected this holiday season, it's good to see Microsoft and Rare bringing a piñata to the party. According to reviews, Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise doesn't seem to bring anything radically new to the fiesta, but it does make significant improvements to the formula introduced in the original. If you didn't like the original, it appears you can just move on. But, if you found the sweet candy fix of Viva Piñata addictive the first time, it looks like you'll be in for another treat.
  • 1Up (A): "If you hated the original, Trouble in Paradise isn't going to change your opinion. If, however, you somehow missed out completely on the piñata party the first time around, I implore you to check it out now -- it's certainly much deeper and more addictive than its playful visuals would lead you to believe."
  • Game Informer (83/100): "Keeping your piñatas happy can still be monotonous in task, but the expanded content and finely made multiplayer relieves some of the repetition that plagued the first game. Viva Piñata retains its child-like charm, but the content is layered with deep strategies and entertaining gameplay that can suck anyone's life away."
  • GamePro (80/100): "There are also some minor additions that attempt to sweeten the pot but they don't add too much. The new trick stick, which allows you to teach pinata tricks, and a wide range of toys are fun to play with, though. There's also support for the Xbox Live Vision camera which allows you to scan in special pinata cards, but it's a gimmick at best. Still, despite some irritating design elements, Trouble in Paradise is a fun game that retains the charm of the first Viva Pinata."
  • GameDaily (80/100): "Rare could've easily slapped a couple of minor changes into this game and given us an expansion pack. Instead, Viva Pinata: Trouble In Paradise offers enough to make it a worthy sequel. It'll be a little too cute for some, but others will see past the adorable exterior and find the delicious treats inside, just like a real pinata."

Gallery: Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise

JoystiqMetareview -- Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Sep 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>metareviewmicrosoftrareviva-pinataviva-pinata-2viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseXbox-360Wed, 03 Sep 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rare says no to Viva Pinata 2 DLC, yes to 'something new']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/29/rare-says-no-to-viva-pinata-2-dlc-yes-to-something-new/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/29/rare-says-no-to-viva-pinata-2-dlc-yes-to-something-new/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/29/rare-says-no-to-viva-pinata-2-dlc-yes-to-something-new/#commentsFiled under: ,

In a recent live chat with Rare devotees, Rare's Justin Cook made it clear that there are no plans for any Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise downloadable content. Furthermore, Cook says that Rare is "taking a break" from the Viva Piñata franchise in order to "make something new." Just what this something new is, Cook failed to elaborate. The "new" part makes us suspect it won't be a return to Rare's other franchises like Perfect Dark or Kameo, but there's no way to be sure. Cook added that even Rare's plans regarding another Viva Piñata could change, so we'll just have to wait and see. Still, is it too much to ask for a new Battletoads?

Be sure to hit the source link to read the whole chat. It covers plenty of nitty-gritty details in VP2.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqRare says no to Viva Pinata 2 DLC, yes to 'something new' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Aug 2008 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcrareviva-pinataviva-pinata-2viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseFri, 29 Aug 2008 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Making of the Viva Pinata BelieVe videos]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/22/video-making-of-the-viva-pinata-believe-videos/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/22/video-making-of-the-viva-pinata-believe-videos/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/22/video-making-of-the-viva-pinata-believe-videos/#commentsFiled under: ,


Some of you may have had your fill of the Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise BelieVe video series, which is sorta understandable. But, being the hardcore Viva Piñata fanboys that we are, we can never have enough. That's why when we came across the latest BelieVe video, we had no doubt in our minds that we wanted to share it. Though, in all actuality, it isn't a new video, it's more of a "making of" behind the scenes look at how the videos were created. Simply put, to create a Viva Piñata BelieVe video all you need is a few BK toys, some chicken wire, newspaper, boxes, styrofoam and a healthy dose of creativity. And it's that creativity bit that gets us every time.

JoystiqVideo: Making of the Viva Pinata BelieVe videos originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Aug 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>raretrouble-in-paradiseviva-pinataviva-pinata-2viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseFri, 22 Aug 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Viva Pinata 2 demo in certification, releasing soon]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/viva-pinata-2-demo-in-certification-releasing-soon/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/viva-pinata-2-demo-in-certification-releasing-soon/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/viva-pinata-2-demo-in-certification-releasing-soon/#commentsFiled under: , ,

In an interview with Eurogamer, Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise lead programmer Will Bryan confirmed details regarding a Trouble in Paradise demo releasing to the Xbox Live Marketplace saying that it will release "as soon as possible."

According to Bryan, the demo is finished and is currently in the hands of Microsoft's certification team. Then, once it's approved by cert, it will be released to the Xbox Live masses. As far as demo specifics go, we're being told that it'll include 25 minutes of gameplay from the core game including a few Live features and the "Just For Fun" game mode. Sadly, the demo will not include any co-op support, local or Live, so we'll just have to imagine playing with three other piñata gardeners. Imagination FTW!

JoystiqViva Pinata 2 demo in certification, releasing soon originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Aug 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>raretrouble-in-paradiseviva-pinata-2viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradisexblmWed, 20 Aug 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise to allow four player co-op garden editing over Xbox Live]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/16/viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-to-allow-four-player-co-op-gard/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/16/viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-to-allow-four-player-co-op-gard/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/16/viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-to-allow-four-player-co-op-gard/#commentsFiled under: ,


The obsession began as most obsessions do -- with a simple observation. Perhaps it was the perfectly arranged row of tulips, or the masterfully grown monkeynut trees. Perhaps it was the stunning flock of Chewnicorn that resided in that breathtaking place. One is never sure of how or why these feeling develop, but the end result is always the same -- your neighbor's piñata garden is too beautiful to exist, and has to be razed. It must be returned to the loam from whence it sprung, its candy-filled inhabitants scattered to the sweet-smelling wind.

Fortunately, word from Rare confirms that in addition to a slew of races and other contests, Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise will indeed feature a four player co-op mode over Xbox Live, in which three players can enter and "edit" the host's garden. Players will have access to all the tools afforded them in the single-player mode, meaning you can use your trusty multi-purpose shovel to wreak a path of destruction through a friend's garden, carving a scar into its well-tended landscape.

Or you could help them out, we guess. We're not really sure why anyone would want to do that, though.

JoystiqViva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise to allow four player co-op garden editing over Xbox Live originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 16 Aug 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>co-opmicrosoftpinatarareviva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseXbox-360Sat, 16 Aug 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Viva Pinata 2's four player co-op isn't gimped!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/15/viva-pinata-2s-four-player-co-op-isnt-gimped/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/15/viva-pinata-2s-four-player-co-op-isnt-gimped/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/15/viva-pinata-2s-four-player-co-op-isnt-gimped/#commentsFiled under: ,


As was semi confirmed via some leaky achievements, Rare has informed us that four player online co-op will be a part of Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise and (best part) it won't be gimped!

Just like local co-op, four player online co-op will allow players to join the "host" in their garden and only their garden. Meaning that everyone who enters the a garden will only make changes or do damage to the host's garden while having no effect on their game saves. All four players will have the ability to interact with the garden and have access to normal player tools. Simply put, there's no co-op gimpage! Not only will players be able to visit and play in eachother's gardens, but everyone can partake in 2D top down races, competitions and win monthly leaderboard prizes. It's like the online Viva Piñata experience we've always wanted! Also, we've been told to expect much more Trouble in Paradise info (including more co-op specifics) to be released during Leipzig, so keep your eyes peeled.

To recap: Trouble in Paradise will sport local AND four player Xbox Live co-op where players can interact with and edit the host's garden with access to all normal in-game tools. Yup, we like!

JoystiqViva Pinata 2's four player co-op isn't gimped! originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Aug 2008 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>raretrouble-in-paradiseviva-pinataviva-pinata-2viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseFri, 15 Aug 2008 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Rare settles on Viva: Pocket release and a new BelieVe trailer too]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/15/rare-settles-on-viva-pocket-release-and-a-new-believe-trailer-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/15/rare-settles-on-viva-pocket-release-and-a-new-believe-trailer-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/15/rare-settles-on-viva-pocket-release-and-a-new-believe-trailer-t/#commentsFiled under:


Rare just sent word (via express pigeon airmail, no less) that the Nintendo DS edition Viva Piñata: Pocket Paradise has been given a release date that should be familiar to all Viva Piñata fans. As it stands, Pocket Paradise will release to the United States on September 2nd and in Europe on September 5th, which is the exact release date for the 360's Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise. Speaking of which, Rare today also announced that Trouble in Paradise has gone gold and is currently being pressed to disc on some manufacturing line in Mexico.

Hold on, that's not all. Rare released a second Halo 3 inspired Viva Piñata BelieVe trailer titled "Museum" and we're told it was done by the voice actor for Leafos herself! Oh, how we love these BelieVe trailers ... just watch and have a good belly laugh. Har, har!

JoystiqRare settles on Viva: Pocket release and a new BelieVe trailer too originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Aug 2008 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>believepocket-paradiseraretrouble-in-paradiseviva-pinataviva-pinata-pocket-paradiseviva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseFri, 15 Aug 2008 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Trapping pinatas in Viva Pinata 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/14/video-trapping-pinatas-in-viva-pinata-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/14/video-trapping-pinatas-in-viva-pinata-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/14/video-trapping-pinatas-in-viva-pinata-2/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Brand new Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise media released earlier today showing off some gameplay and how much the game looks, plays and feels just like the original Viva Pinata. Not that that is a bad thing, really, it's just an observation. Though, we can't help but say it mirrors its predecessor in every way, but is more refined, perfected and feature-rich. In other words, it's what Viva Piñata should have been, four player online co-op and all. Give the videos (one embedded after the break) a watch, take in all the piñata love and see how to trap pinatas. Yup, in Viva 2 you can box up those piñatas who are unlucky enough to be attracted to your garden by a vegetable. How devilish!

Continue reading Video: Trapping pinatas in Viva Pinata 2

JoystiqVideo: Trapping pinatas in Viva Pinata 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Aug 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>raretrouble-in-paradiseviva-pinata-2viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseThu, 14 Aug 2008 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise parties with four player online co-op]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/11/viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-parties-with-four-player-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/11/viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-parties-with-four-player-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/11/viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-parties-with-four-player-online/#commentsFiled under: ,

If those pesky Achievements for the game are to be believed, Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise will support four player online co-op. 360sync.com lists all the "bleep bloops" for the upcoming candy-filled animal simulator and one 10-point achievement, named "Full House," comes with with the description: Play 4 Player Online Co-op for 1 hour.

We're still not exactly sure what co-op entails, as there also Achievements listed for playing two player co-op, both online and off, for one hour. We should get more details soon before VP: TiP starts getting whacked at retail on Sept. 2.

[Via X3F]

JoystiqViva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise parties with four player online co-op originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Aug 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>four-player-coopmicrosoftrareviva-pinataviva-pinata-2viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseXbox-360Mon, 11 Aug 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise, now sporting 4 player ONLINE co-op]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/10/viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-now-sporting-4-player-online-c/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/10/viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-now-sporting-4-player-online-c/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/10/viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-now-sporting-4-player-online-c/#commentsFiled under: ,

The achievements for Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise have just made their way onto the interwebs and among the traditional gardening achievements we spotted an extremely interesting and feature revealing "Full House" achievement. This 10 Gamerscore earning "Full House" achievement pretty much confirms co-op details we never knew about Trouble in Paradise, reading "Play 4 Player Online Co-op for 1 hour". That's right, the once thought to be only two player local co-op Trouble in Paradise will now sport four player online co-op! That is, if the achievements can be trusted. We already have our Vision camera warmed up and ready to go, bring on the four player online piñata fun!

JoystiqViva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise, now sporting 4 player ONLINE co-op originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 10 Aug 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementsraretrouble-in-paradiseviva-pinata-2viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseSun, 10 Aug 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[First Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise 'Vision Card' up for download]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/08/first-viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-vision-card-up-for-down/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/08/first-viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-vision-card-up-for-down/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/08/first-viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-vision-card-up-for-down/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The festivities on Piñata Island won't get into full swing until Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise hits shelves on September 2, but that's not stopping Rare from handing out an early party favor. As we reported back in May, the game will use the Xbox Live Vision camera to "scan" physical cards - similar to Sony's Eye of Judgment - that unlock items, change the in-game weather, etc. The first of these cards is now up on MundoRare, featuring a curious critter created by VP2 designer Ray Stevenson.

Clicking on the card image above will take you to a full-sized version that can be printed out and tucked safely away until the game streets. The rest of the dev team is also crafting cards that will surely pop up online closer to launch. Speaking of making cards, you'll be able to do the same simply by snapping photos of items and piñatas in your garden via an in-game camera. They can then be emailed to friends, who can print them out and hold them up to their Vision cameras, thus completing the circle of life.

JoystiqFirst Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise 'Vision Card' up for download originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Aug 2008 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cardsrareviva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseXbox-360xbox-live-visionFri, 08 Aug 2008 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[First Pinata Vision card goes online]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/07/first-pinata-vision-card-goes-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/07/first-pinata-vision-card-goes-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/07/first-pinata-vision-card-goes-online/#commentsFiled under:

Viva Piñata and general Rare fansite MundoRare posted photos of the first ever, official Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise Vision card. You know, those Trouble in Paradise cards that, once scanned, plop the card's character into your virtual garden space. Well, the first Piñata Vision card we're being treated to is Ryan, one of thirty pinata cards that Rare developers have created and (have selfishly) named after themselves. It's a crazy interesting idea that we can't wait to embrace. As long as the scanning process is more efficient then our local grocery store's self checkout lanes. Those wonky scanners are no fun.

JoystiqFirst Pinata Vision card goes online originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Aug 2008 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>raretrouble-in-paradisevisionviva-pinataviva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseThu, 07 Aug 2008 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[E308: Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise screens]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/e308-viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/e308-viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/e308-viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-screens/#commentsFiled under:

We kinda feel bad. When Viva Piñata came up during the Microsoft Press Conference we pretty much skipped over it to report on the new hawtness but we wanted to publicly say that we're excited for the game. If you're put of by the art style of the game -- or just think you're too 1337 to play it -- you might want to take a look at Viva Piñata: Trouble In Paradise. Adding more content to its original vision, Viva Piñata: Trouble In Paradise is a definitive version of sorts. Sporting addictive and fun gameplay and a ton of extras we recommend you take a look at Viva Piñata: TiP when it lands in stores this September. We've added the latest images in the gallery below for your viewing pleasure.

JoystiqE308: Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise screens originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Jul 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>E3e3-08e3-2008e308viva-pinata-2viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseTue, 15 Jul 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Viva Pinata sequel busts open in early September]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/viva-pinata-sequel-busts-open-in-early-september/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/viva-pinata-sequel-busts-open-in-early-september/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/viva-pinata-sequel-busts-open-in-early-september/#commentsFiled under: ,

All you Nerds worried about wasting Mounds of time waiting for Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise should stop being such Airheads. The anticipated sequel will be Star-bursting onto the scene on Sept. 2 in North and Latin America and Sept. 5 in Europe and the UK. That leaves plenty of Paydays for you Smarties to save up the $59.99 you need to buy it. That's not a Whopper of a price ... much less than the 100 Grands it would take to travel to ... Whatchamacallit ... Mars.

You see, piñatas are filled with candy ...

[Via X3F]

JoystiqViva Pinata sequel busts open in early September originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Jul 2008 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BreakingNewsmicrosoftRarerelease-dateTrouble-in-ParadiseViva-PinataViva-Pinata-2Viva-Pinata-Trouble-in-ParadiseXbox-360Thu, 03 Jul 2008 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Viva Pinata sequel will release the first week of Sept]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/viva-pinata-sequel-will-release-the-first-week-of-sept/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/viva-pinata-sequel-will-release-the-first-week-of-sept/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/viva-pinata-sequel-will-release-the-first-week-of-sept/#commentsFiled under:

Earlier today, Microsoft narrowed down Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise's oh so vague "September 2008" release to actual date dates. Pending any unforeseen delays caused by uncooperative Horstachios or Buzzlegums (they can and do get out of hand), that release date will be September 2nd for those in North America and for Europeans, a few days later, on September 5th. So, look forward to hopefully to a cheaper and online co-op enabled (fingers crossed) Viva Pinata experience the first week of September! Joy!

JoystiqViva Pinata sequel will release the first week of Sept originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Jul 2008 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mgsraretrouble-in-paradiseviva-pinata-2viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseThu, 03 Jul 2008 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Banjo and Viva sequels only $39.99 at Gamestop?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/banjo-and-viva-sequels-only-39-99-at-gamestop/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/banjo-and-viva-sequels-only-39-99-at-gamestop/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/banjo-and-viva-sequels-only-39-99-at-gamestop/#commentsFiled under:


This generation of games has seen the average price for a title rise to $59.99, so when a game looks to possibly be released at a price point lower than that, we take notice. Over at Gamestop's website, Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise and Banjo Kazooie: Nuts and Bolts are both currently listed at the price of $39.99. Now while this could just be a simple error (Amazon has them both at $59.99), we'd like to hope that there's more going on ...

The rest of this is only speculation, but there are a few connections between the two games. They're both from Rare and so they're both Microsoft first party games. Now it could just be wishful thinking, but we'd like to hope that Microsoft might be willing taking a bit of a profit hit on these two to get them to be must-buys for a larger audience of gamers (read: kids).

JoystiqBanjo and Viva sequels only $39.99 at Gamestop? originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Jul 2008 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banjo-kazooie-3banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-boltsmicrosoftmicrosoft-game-studiosrareviva-pinata-2viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseThu, 03 Jul 2008 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Crabtastic Trouble in Paradise screenshots!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/crabtastic-trouble-in-paradise-screenshots/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/crabtastic-trouble-in-paradise-screenshots/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/crabtastic-trouble-in-paradise-screenshots/#commentsFiled under:

Whoever said you can have too many Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise screenshots featuring crabs, a genie lamp and a monkey wearing a gas mask obviously doesn't have a brain. Because you can never have too many new Viva Pinata screens ... EVAR! That's why we bring you four deliciously new Trouble in Paradise screens that should re-ignite your love of animals made out of pinata materials. View the new screens in the gallery below and have a crabtastic day!


[Via NeoGAF]

JoystiqCrabtastic Trouble in Paradise screenshots! originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Jun 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>raretrouble-in-paradiseviva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseTue, 24 Jun 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft confirms not so surprising E3 lineup [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/microsoft-confirms-not-so-surprising-e3-lineup/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/microsoft-confirms-not-so-surprising-e3-lineup/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/microsoft-confirms-not-so-surprising-e3-lineup/#commentsFiled under:

Update: So, uh ... yeah. Halo Wars is actually on the E3 list. Honestly, we can't read, we didn't think it was part of the blogging gig. Anyway, our apologies as we say bring on the Halo Wars!

As E3 gets closer and closer, the video game industry as a whole are dotting their "i"s and crossing their "t"s for the craziness that'll go down next month. And Microsoft, being the organized folks that they are, just released a confirmed list of games that'll be making an appearance in Los Angeles on July 14th. A list that isn't all that unexpected.

It should be no surprise that Microsoft's confirmed list of E3 video game attendees will be hot 2008 releases including Gears of War 2, Fable 2, Too Human, Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts and Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise. See, nothing crazy different then what we already expected. But noticeably absent from their list are games like Halo Wars Halo Chronicles and Alan Wake, all games (except Chronicles) that are the latter is still slated for a 2008 release. Though, our confidence in that "fact" is waning.

Also, one thing we can count on at this year's E3 will be at least one super duper surprise. Whether it be a new game announcement, new hardware, new peripherals or some unthinkably awesome tidbit of info, we're uber excited. E3 is coming ... get happy!

JoystiqMicrosoft confirms not so surprising E3 lineup [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Jun 2008 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3fable-2gears-of-war-2microsofttoo-humanviva-pinata-trouble-in-paradisexbox-360Thu, 12 Jun 2008 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Trouble in Paradise trailer teaches us evil]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/trouble-in-paraidise-trailer-teaches-us-evil/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/trouble-in-paraidise-trailer-teaches-us-evil/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/trouble-in-paraidise-trailer-teaches-us-evil/#commentsFiled under: ,

Rare just released a new Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise trailer today and even though we don't get to see any in-game goodness, we do get to be completely entertained. You'll have to jump over to Eurogamer to watch the vid, but it's worth it because you'll get to watch Professor Pester detail his evil plan to his fellow henchmen and hilarity ensues. Hmm, now after watching the trailer we have a mad jonesing for some desert dessert and chilled penguin on a stick ... yummm!

JoystiqTrouble in Paradise trailer teaches us evil originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Jun 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>raretrouble-in-paradiseviva-pinataviva-pinata-2viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseTue, 10 Jun 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft Game Studios' 2008 in Gaming: A Yearbook]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/23/microsoft-game-studios-2008-in-gaming-a-yearbook/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/23/microsoft-game-studios-2008-in-gaming-a-yearbook/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/23/microsoft-game-studios-2008-in-gaming-a-yearbook/#commentsFiled under:

Interested in seeing what you'll be playing on your Xbox 360 in the coming months? X3F has compiled the 2008 Microsoft Game Studios Yearbook for you, a list of this year's exclusive graduating class with a detailed account of each title's current status and the stories surrounding them.

The 2008 Microsoft Game Studios Yearbook chronicles the graduates, like the soon-to-be released Ninja Gaiden II, and the titles that didn't make it to grad, like Alan Wake. Yep, he had to be held back for a semester or two. Or maybe three, we just don't know yet.

Ladies and gentlemen, allow us to introduce the 2008 Microsoft Game Studios graduating class ...

JoystiqMicrosoft Game Studios' 2008 in Gaming: A Yearbook originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 May 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Actionalan-wakebanjo-kazooiebanjo-kazooie-nuts-and-boltsfable-2gears-of-war-2halohalo-warsLionheadLionhead-Studiosmarvelmarvel-universe-onlineMGSmicrosoftMicrosoft-Game-Studiosmicrosoft-games-studioninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iinuts-and-boltspeter-jacksonRPGtoo-humanviva-pinataviva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseXbox-360yearbookFri, 23 May 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[2008 Yearbook: Microsoft Game Studios]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/23/yearbook-2008-microsoft-game-studios/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/23/yearbook-2008-microsoft-game-studios/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/23/yearbook-2008-microsoft-game-studios/#commentsFiled under:


After a solid year for the Xbox 360 in 2007 many thought the system could never showcase the same amount of quality exclusives in a single year.

In the 2008 Microsoft Game Studios Yearbook, we've compiled a list of this year's graduating class with a detailed account of each title's current status and the stories surrounding them.

From heartbreaking cancellations, surprise feature announcements and expected sequels, the 2008 MGS Yearbook is filled with fun facts and information on your soon-to-be favorite titles. Also included in the yearbook are special joke awards given to each title that releases in 2008 that poke fun at the details most commonly argued about in the comments.

From Ninja Gaiden II to Alan Wake, the 2008 Microsoft Game Studios Yearbook will have something for everyone.

Ladies and gentlemen allow us to introduce the 2008 Microsoft Game Studios graduating class ...

Joystiq2008 Yearbook: Microsoft Game Studios originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 May 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2008-releases2009-releasesalan-wakebanjo-kazooiebanjo-kazooie-3banjo-kazooie-nuts-and-boltsbungiebungie-studioscanceledcancelledcliff-bleszinskicliffybcrypticcryptic-studiosdennis-dyackepic-gamesfable-2featurefrank-o-connorfrankiegears-of-wargears-of-war-2gowgow2halohalo-3halo-warsjoystiqfeaturesmarvelmarvel-universe-onlinemicrosoft-game-studiosngng2ninja-gaiden-2peter-jacksonpeter-jackson-projectpeter-molyneuxremedysilicon-knightstomonobu-itagakitoo-humanunreal-engine-3viva-pinataviva-pinata-2viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseyearbook-08Fri, 23 May 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Viva Pinata DS / Xbox 360 connectivity figured out, not happening]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/viva-pinata-ds-xbox-360-connectivity-figured-out-not-happenin/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/viva-pinata-ds-xbox-360-connectivity-figured-out-not-happenin/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/viva-pinata-ds-xbox-360-connectivity-figured-out-not-happenin/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The clever men and women at Rare actually figured out a way to offer connectivity between Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise on the Xbox 360, and the Viva Piñata game on the Nintendo DS. Unfortunately, they figured it out a bit too late in development, and the unprecedented "Three-Six-DS" (say it out loud) connection will not make it into either game.

How would it have worked? Trouble in Paradise on the 360 uses the Live Vision Camera to interpret special codes on Viva Piñata trading cards. The camera's resolution is high enough to even read card codes off of digital screens, like iPods, Zunes (lawl) and portable gaming systems.

According to MTV's Stephen Totilo, Rare realized that codes could be placed in the Nintendo DS Piñata game to allow content to be transferred from the portable to the 360 version. Sadly, this realization came too late in the development cycle of the DS game, and reportedly could not be included. It's the thought that counts, right?

JoystiqViva Pinata DS / Xbox 360 connectivity figured out, not happening originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 May 2008 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsmicrosoftnintendoRareTHQViva-Pinata-DSViva-Pinata-Pocket-ParadiseViva-Pinata-Trouble-in-ParadisexboxXbox-360Tue, 20 May 2008 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Peep this: Viva Pinata card]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/peep-this-viva-pinata-card/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/peep-this-viva-pinata-card/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/peep-this-viva-pinata-card/#commentsFiled under:


Don't expect to find these Viva Piñata cards in stores; this guy above is just a mockup, made specially for the folks at Microsoft's Spring Showcase yesterday. Hold it up to the camera and Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise will process that barcode on the right side, plopping the character into your game.

The feature, while impressive (and early), was temperamental in our demo; however, when working correctly, it will let users share their piñatas by creating a card through the game's website. The camera is surface agnostic so you can print the card out, or stick the image on a forum, save it on your iPod, or just email it to your entire address book (that always goes over well). Check out a shot of the process in action after the break.

Continue reading Peep this: Viva Pinata card

JoystiqPeep this: Viva Pinata card originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 May 2008 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>MGSRareViva-Pinata-2Viva-Pinata-Trouble-in-ParadiseXbox-360Wed, 14 May 2008 19:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 Spring Showcase impressions roundup]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/xbox-360-spring-showcase-impressions-roundup/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/xbox-360-spring-showcase-impressions-roundup/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/xbox-360-spring-showcase-impressions-roundup/#commentsFiled under:

Our friends at Xbox 360 Fanboy are having a ball at the Xbox 360 Spring Showcase, sending word of their hands-on experiences with the console's upcoming lineup. (Update: Now with more Human.) Check out their impressions below:
Impressions: Ninja Gaiden II
It's unapologetically hardcore, and we wouldn't have it any other way.
Impressions: Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts
There is good reason that Rare did not decide to title the game Banjo Threeie. It's something new.
Impressions: Penny Arcade Adventures
On the Rain-Slick Precipice of Darkness. Turns out the game is a meld of Japanese RPG and old-school adventure.

Continue reading Xbox 360 Spring Showcase impressions roundup

JoystiqXbox 360 Spring Showcase impressions roundup originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 May 2008 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banjo-kazooiebanjo-kazooie-nuts-and-boltsmicrosoftmicrosoft-gamers-day-2008ninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iipenny-arcadepenny-arcade-adventurestoo-humanviva-pinataviva-pinata-2viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseXbox-360Wed, 14 May 2008 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[X3F Impressions - Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/x3f-impressions-viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/x3f-impressions-viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/x3f-impressions-viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise/#commentsFiled under:

The first Viva Piñata was a somewhat divisive game. The visual look turned off many initial players, but those who stayed found an engaging and deep sim. Unfortunately, those two things were usually at odds with one another and given that it was a new IP it perhaps wasn't best to turn away the player base that was most likely to get into the deeper side of the game. So for Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise, Rare is looking to somehow split the bar, raising it for the hardcore and lowering it for those who are in fact pulled in by the game's look.

Like many sequels, VP2 isn't much different in its basic mechanics and most of its changes consist of refinements and streamlining that allows for the gameplay to pass much faster and in many new ways. Things like co-op, the camera support, and the UI refinement all make the rest of the game's additions that much easier to use.

Hit the Pinata after the break. Get it? We're a scream.

Continue reading X3F Impressions - Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise

JoystiqX3F Impressions - Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 May 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamers-day-08joystiqfeaturesmicrosoft-gamers-dayviva-pinata-2viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradisex3f-impressionsWed, 14 May 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise screens]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/13/viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/13/viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/13/viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-screens/#commentsFiled under:


click to enlarge

Curious to see what sort of "trouble" is brewing in Viva Piñata's candy-colored paradise? The six screenshots Microsoft released this morning don't offer many clues (Graveyards? Volcanoes? Evil tiki guys?) but should be enough to whet your appetite if you're eager to get back to Piñata Island.

Gallery: Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise

JoystiqViva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise screens originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 May 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>MGSMicrosoft-Gamers-Day-2008RareViva-Pinata-2Viva-Pinata-Trouble-in-ParadiseXbox-360Tue, 13 May 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise adds camera, co-op, September release]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/13/viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-adds-camera-co-op-september-r/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/13/viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-adds-camera-co-op-september-r/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/13/viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-adds-camera-co-op-september-r/#commentsFiled under:

Microsoft's embargoes are finally up and, well, there's not much we didn't already know. Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise - the sequel to the "sleeper hit" - now has a release date of "September" as well as some new details, including a "Just for Fun" setting that makes it easier to hop right in, a new co-op setting, as well as a unique use of the Xbox Live Vision cam.

VP: TIP incorporates cameras in two unique ways. Looking out: you'll be able to use the Xbox Live Vision camera to take pictures of physical cards (think Eye of Judgment), unlocking new pinatas, building, or abilities (Rare apparently created a moose whose nose gets red only around Christmas time). Looking in: You'll be able to use your own digital camera to take a picture of your creations to share with friends over email, in a forum, wherever. While Microsoft isn't sure if they'll be releasing packs on their own, think of this feature as your own card generator; forget those pricey little packs. Anyone with a Vision Cam can snap a pic of your "card" and unlock it for themselves.

We'll bring you our impressions when we get a look at the game later today.

Gallery: Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise



Read - Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise press release
Read - Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise Preview
Read - NeoGAF VP2 camera info

JoystiqViva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise adds camera, co-op, September release originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 May 2008 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BreakingNewsMGSMicrosoft-Gamers-Day-2008RareViva-PinataViva-Pinata-2Viva-Pinata-Trouble-in-ParadiseXbox-360Tue, 13 May 2008 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise confirmed, hits retail this September]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/13/viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-confirmed-hits-retail-this-sep/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/13/viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-confirmed-hits-retail-this-sep/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/13/viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradise-confirmed-hits-retail-this-sep/#commentsFiled under:

With numerous leaks behind us, Microsoft has just confirmed that Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise is really real and is scheduled to release sometime this September.

The sequel to the cult-hit Viva Piñata aims at building upon the piñata managing experience by adding a plethora of new features. In Trouble in Paradise, gamers will encounter over 100 different piñatas, including 32 new ones that you'll be able to teach tricks to and purchase toys for. Not only that, but Trouble in Paradise will add the ability to change the weather, hunt for rare piñatas and will introduce new game modes including free-play as well as local co-op. The Vision camera will also be utilized in the sequel by adding the ability to "scan" barcodes found on cards which will instantly add the animal into your garden. Finally, gamers will be able to take pictures of their piñatas or gardens, upload them onto the internet to share or can be assigned a special barcode to share with friends so they can add the piñata to their garden. Check out the official Xbox.com Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise webspace, view the screenshots below and get pumped for more piñata fun this September!

JoystiqViva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise confirmed, hits retail this September originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 May 2008 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>rarespring-showcase-08viva-pinataviva-pinata-2viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseTue, 13 May 2008 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Viva Pinata, Scene It? sequels revealed by Microsoft]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/12/viva-pinata-scene-it-sequels-revealed-by-microsoft/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/12/viva-pinata-scene-it-sequels-revealed-by-microsoft/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/12/viva-pinata-scene-it-sequels-revealed-by-microsoft/#commentsFiled under: ,

Yeesh, the good ship Microsoft has had so many leaks we'll be shocked if it can even stay afloat for tomorrow's Gamer's Day event being held in San Francisco. While doing some pre-briefing site combing, one intrepid NeoGAF user discovered confirmation to sequels for Viva Piñata (sub-titled Trouble in Paradise) and Scene It?. Can you guess which one we're more excited about?

What's more, the NeoGAFfers even dug up some screenshots from the game for you to enjoy. Just do us a favor and look surprised tomorrow. We don't want to hurt Jeff Bell's feelings.

[Via X3F]

Gallery: Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise

JoystiqViva Pinata, Scene It? sequels revealed by Microsoft originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 May 2008 07:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingnewsmicrosoftMicrosoft-Gamers-Day-2008rareviva-pinataviva-pinata-2Viva-Pinata-Trouble-in-ParadiseXbox-360Mon, 12 May 2008 07:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Viva Pinata and Scene It? sequels are real!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/12/viva-pinata-and-scene-it-sequels-are-real/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/12/viva-pinata-and-scene-it-sequels-are-real/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/12/viva-pinata-and-scene-it-sequels-are-real/#commentsFiled under:

As hard as they tried, Microsoft just couldn't keep the lid on this week's Microsoft Gamers Day 2008 announcements as we just got word that both Viva Piñata and Scene It? are getting sequels. It looks like we now know what Rare's secret project is.

Mention of both sequels was discovered on one of Microsoft's press sites, where someone accidently uploaded all of the categories for this week's MGD08 announcements including categories for Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise and Scene It? 2. And being the good reporters that we are, we went out and confirmed that both of these two unannounced titles are in fact listed on Microsoft's press site, though all game media has since been pulled. But not before the crew over at NeoGAF grabbed screenshot love from the Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise folder. So, not only do we get leaked word that Viva Piñata and Scene It? sequels are headed our way, but we also get a first look at Trouble in Paradise! Enjoy the screens!

JoystiqViva Pinata and Scene It? sequels are real! originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 May 2008 02:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftrarescene-itscene-it-2viva-pinataviva-pinata-2viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseMon, 12 May 2008 02:10:00 EST