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[Rare duo: Viva Pinata left in Gears' wake]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/12/rare-duo-viva-pinata-left-in-gears-wake/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/12/rare-duo-viva-pinata-left-in-gears-wake/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/12/rare-duo-viva-pinata-left-in-gears-wake/#commentsFiled under: ,


Viva Piñata has found moderate success since its release late last year, with about 500,000 units sold, but it's far from the "next great family franchise" it was positioned as. Over at Gamasutra, James Thomas and Justin Cook of Rare discuss why they thought that Viva made less of a splash than many hoped.

Interestingly, the two say that the game was supposed to be more of a symbol for third parties, showing that Microsoft was serious about games for kids. The sales were still low though, something that, in part, they chalk up to the marketing force put behind Gears of War, which shared Viva's launch window. "So much of the money went towards Gears of War, which is going to sell millions anyway," Thomas said. "It was a bit of like, 'What about the other franchise?' I think we got left in the wake somewhat. Hopefully with the PC version this Christmas, it might get something of a second wind."

We'd be more likely to attribute Viva's sales to the fact that the game is too complicated for most kids, but sports cartoon graphics that turn many adult players off. That said, we're sure that Gary Jules on TV every 30 seconds didn't help matters.

JoystiqRare duo: Viva Pinata left in Gears' wake originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Oct 2007 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gearsofwarrarevivapinataXbox-360Fri, 12 Oct 2007 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rare's not going to make any Viva Pinata DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/05/rares-not-going-to-make-any-viva-pinata-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/05/rares-not-going-to-make-any-viva-pinata-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/05/rares-not-going-to-make-any-viva-pinata-dlc/#commentsFiled under: ,


Though it may seem tailor-made for it, a Rare staffer has confirmed that Viva Pinata won't be getting any downloadable content. In response to a fan's question in the "Scribes" column on the company's website, a member of the Viva team wrote, "We aren't doing any downloadable content for Viva Piñata because we are much too busy doing something else." So, we lose out on DLC, but gain the greatest commodity of all: Mystery.

We know it's not Viva Pinata: Party Animals, that's being developed by Krome. The team member could be talking about the DS version of the game, but we doubt it. Why not call it by name? So, it it Viva 2? Is it a new Jet Force Gemini? (No, it's probably not.) The thrill of anticipation we feel almost makes up for the lack of new, downloadable pinatas! ... Almost.

[Via GI.biz. Thanks, Jaap]

JoystiqRare's not going to make any Viva Pinata DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Sep 2007 08:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcrarevivapinataXbox-360xboxliveWed, 05 Sep 2007 08:55:00 EST<![CDATA[No Viva Piñata DLC coming, evar!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/04/no-viva-pinata-dlc-coming-evar/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/04/no-viva-pinata-dlc-coming-evar/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/04/no-viva-pinata-dlc-coming-evar/#commentsFiled under: ,

Fellow Viva Piñata fans, if you've been waiting ever so patiently for some new downloadable content to hit the Marketplace then developer Rare has some bitterly sad news for you. In their somewhat monthly Scribes column, where the team answers fans' letters and questions, Rare fielded a question about the possibility of some new content for Viva Piñata. Their answer ... not a chance, more specifically they said that "we aren't doing any downloadable content for Viva Piñata because we are much too busy doing something else...". Too busy for Viva Piñata? We raise an eyebrow to that!

Even though we didn't expect to see any new Viva Piñata DLC hit the Marketplace a year after its release, this official confirmation is somewhat sad. But we don't need it, you're fine the way you are Viva Piñata and don't let anyone tell you differently.

[Via Xbox 360 Rally]

JoystiqNo Viva Piñata DLC coming, evar! originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 Sep 2007 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>rarevivapinataTue, 04 Sep 2007 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rare is bringing Viva Piñata to the DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/30/rare-is-bringing-viva-pinata-to-the-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/30/rare-is-bringing-viva-pinata-to-the-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/30/rare-is-bringing-viva-pinata-to-the-ds/#commentsFiled under: , ,

During the final day of Comic Con, Rare held a Viva Piñata panel discussion and made a surpeise announcement that Viva Piñata will be heading to the Nintendo DS. So, it looks like Shane Kim's talk of bringing the franchise to the DS making sense ended up being one of those sly hints of things to come. Viva Piñata on the DS is being developed by Rare and will be very similar to its lovably fun Xbox 360 version featuring the same core gameplay elements. Nothing more about the DS version was mentioned other than it'll be teh awesomeness, but we'd like to hear when the DS version will hit retail, if it'll incorporate the DS's wireless features and how pretty it is.

So, there you have it fanboys. Viva Piñata will be on the Nintendo DS and Horstachio will have a new condo to call home. Touch screen and all!

JoystiqRare is bringing Viva Piñata to the DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 Jul 2007 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsnintendodsrarevivapinataMon, 30 Jul 2007 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Gears of War and Viva Pinata go to PC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/10/gears-of-war-and-viva-pinata-go-to-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/10/gears-of-war-and-viva-pinata-go-to-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/10/gears-of-war-and-viva-pinata-go-to-pc/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Gears of War is no longer a Xbox 360 exclusive. Neither is Viva Pinata. Two of Microsoft's premiere console titles is now getting the Games For Windows treatment. The Game of the Year-winning shooter from Epic will gain a few enhancements on the PC, such as five new levels, a new editor, and "some very big surprises." Could the game look even prettier on a DirectX 10 PC? Believe it. Thankfully, the game will run on both Windows XP and Windows Vista.

Viva Pinata and a major list of new Games for Windows titles were revealed at the Microsoft keynote, including titles such as Age of Empires 3: The Asian Dynasties, Stranglehold, Blacksite: Area 51, and Kane and Lynch: Dead Men.

JoystiqGears of War and Viva Pinata go to PC originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Jul 2007 23:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingnewsE3e307games for windowsGamesForWindowsgears of warGearsOfWargfwmicrosoftPCviva pinataVivaPinataTue, 10 Jul 2007 23:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Today in Joystiq: June 15, 2007]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/15/today-in-joystiq-june-25-2007/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/15/today-in-joystiq-june-25-2007/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/15/today-in-joystiq-june-25-2007/#commentsFiled under: ,

Behold a Shadow the Hedgehog Pinata, made by Slaziman and his mother for this little brother's birthday (Flickr gallery). In his words, "I will personally beat it till the candy sprays out of it for starring in the worst Sega game ever, Shadow the Hedgehog." Check out the highlights for today:

Joystiquery
Japanese hardware sales, Jun. 4 - Jun. 10: E-scandal Edition
Joystiq hands-on: Fishing Master (Wii)
Joystiq first look: Tony Hawk's Proving Ground
Joystiq impressions: Omega Five (XBLA)
Today's iciest videos: Spinning Princess (DS)

News
Half-Life 2: Episode Two, Portal, Team Fortress 2 shipping October 9th
Microsoft avoids 360 cooling rumors, calls hardware updates 'commonplace'
F-Zero X is Euro Virtual Console's 100th game
Lumines clone Luminator sliding to DS
Phantom Hourglass site opens, new videos inside
New Darkness video features darklings gameplay
Smash Bros blog shows seasonal stages, sliding barrels, Samus
Sega: Wii hype may soon wear off
Lost Planet finds third map pack June 21
Fallout 3 gameplay details revealed
Sam & Max episodes now available on Steam
Halo 3 Zune still can't "Finish the Fight"
Get down and Boogie Aug. 7 in US, Aug. 31 Europe
Tetris Splash rated by the Germans
Call of Duty dev rejects Live Anywhere
Rock Paper Scissors goes mobile
PS3 firmware 1.81 update now online
Sony says sorry to Church of England

Rumors & Speculation
Newsweek: Beautiful Katamari rolling exclusively with Xbox 360
It came from the internets: Rock Band info from Game Informer
Battery life could be prohibiting rumble in Sixaxis
Rumors: Pokemon cheaters banned from online play

Culture & Community
Wii cursor theme for Windows
World of Warcraft player activity in decline

JoystiqToday in Joystiq: June 15, 2007 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Jun 2007 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>daily recapDailyRecappinatasegashadowshadow the hedgehogShadowTheHedgehogviva pinataVivaPinataFri, 15 Jun 2007 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Everyone has a Viva Piñata confession]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/01/everyone-has-a-viva-pinata-confession/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/01/everyone-has-a-viva-pinata-confession/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/01/everyone-has-a-viva-pinata-confession/#commentsFiled under: ,

It's true. We confess. We love Viva Piñata and we always have. And Viva Piñata Confessions has taught us that we aren't weird, we don't have a problem and that our love of the game isn't something we should be embarrassed about. Even our rebel of a game designer Cliffy B loves himself some Viva Piñata every once and a while. You too can come clean, you too can let go of all the built up anxiety and just do it ... confess. Confess that you love Viva Piñata and aren't afraid to tell the world.

And if our inspirational talk doesn't make you believe in the wonder that is Viva Piñata, be sure to check out the embedded video after the break. Those piñatas truly have an affect on a person's brain.

Continue reading Everyone has a Viva Piñata confession

JoystiqEveryone has a Viva Piñata confession originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Jun 2007 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>confessionrareviva pinataVivaPinataFri, 01 Jun 2007 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Create-a-Rare-Developer results are in!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/08/create-a-rare-developer-results-are-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/08/create-a-rare-developer-results-are-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/08/create-a-rare-developer-results-are-in/#commentsFiled under: , ,


The winner of Piñata Island's Create-a-Rare-Developer contest has been chosen. For those that don't recall, the purpose of the contest was to create a new piñata species (named after a Rare developer) for Viva Piñata. It looks like Piñata Island received loads of outstanding entries. In the end, though, it was the Goldipop (pictured above) that beat the odds and won the grand prize (a wild-card piñata). The piñata is named after Andy Pollington, fights with anchors and contains delicious orange suckers. Hit the "read" link to check out the runners-up and honorable mentions.

Has a 360 game inspired you to create anything artistic lately?

JoystiqCreate-a-Rare-Developer results are in! originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 May 2007 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>pinata islandPinataIslandrarerare studiosRareStudiosviva pinataVivaPinataTue, 08 May 2007 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Viva Piñata gets parents' approval]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/01/viva-pinata-gets-parents-approval/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/01/viva-pinata-gets-parents-approval/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/01/viva-pinata-gets-parents-approval/#commentsFiled under: ,

Everyone's favorite piñata growing simulator Viva Piñata has received top honors from a collective group we call "parents". The Parents' Choice Foundation awarded Viva Piñata with the Parents' Choice Award in gaming for its "excellent production values, universal human values, appeal to children, and age appropriateness". We're sure it's an honor, but we wonder if such an award will deter older gamers from picking up the game. We know how sensitive some fanboys can be when it comes to their gamercard and playing "children's games", so does the new Parents' Choice Award further embarrass/deter those who are uneasy about trying Viva Piñata?

JoystiqViva Piñata gets parents' approval originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 May 2007 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>awardpinatarareviva pinataVivaPinataTue, 01 May 2007 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Create-a-Rare-Developer, win wild-card piñata]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/20/create-a-rare-developer-win-wild-card-pinata/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/20/create-a-rare-developer-win-wild-card-pinata/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/20/create-a-rare-developer-win-wild-card-pinata/#commentsFiled under: ,

Our piñata loving friends over at Piñata Island are holding a contest where the winners will receive an extremely rare in-game Viva Piñata wild-card piñata. To win, all you have to do is pick a name of a developer off of the credits list and make a piñata that you feel best fits that person. Draw a piñata, build one out of wood, or use paper mache, it's up to you. Oh, and be sure to make up a brief back story for the little guy too. One lucky winner will have the choice of picking a discovered or undiscovered wild-card piñata or have a Mystery Crate sent to them. Three other runners up will get a discovered wild-card piñata of their choice. All entries must be posted on the forum by May 5th, so find a developer and make a piñata already!

[Thanks, jimmcq]

JoystiqCreate-a-Rare-Developer, win wild-card piñata originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Apr 2007 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contestmicrosoft game studiosMicrosoftGameStudiospinatapinatasrareviva pinataVivaPinatawild cardWildCardFri, 20 Apr 2007 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Those silly, little, inbreeding Whirlms]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/25/those-silly-little-inbreeding-whirlms/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/25/those-silly-little-inbreeding-whirlms/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/25/those-silly-little-inbreeding-whirlms/#commentsFiled under: ,

The latest VG Cats comic features one of our favorite Xbox 360 games, Viva Piñata! Actually, the comic focuses on the darker side of our piñata game ... a side few have the courage to openly talk about. You'll have to read the comic to get the full impact, but let's just say giving too much power to a Viva Piñata gardener can have twisted consequences. Guys, we all know inbreeding Whirlms isn't acceptable in our society, but the answer is not feeding a Whirlm baby their parent's "candy". Sick, sick sick ... this is just sick.

JoystiqThose silly, little, inbreeding Whirlms originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 25 Mar 2007 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comicrareviva pinataVivaPinatawhirlmwhirlmsSun, 25 Mar 2007 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft's posse leads in NAViGaTR nominations]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/14/microsofts-posse-leads-in-navigatr-nominations/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/14/microsofts-posse-leads-in-navigatr-nominations/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/14/microsofts-posse-leads-in-navigatr-nominations/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The nominees for the 2006 National Academy of Video Game Testers and Reviewers (NAViGaTR) awards were just announced with Microsoft leading the pack in nominations count. Microsoft garnered 29 nominations for various games including games like Gears of War and Viva Piñata. Speaking of Gears, it's up for an amazing 16 nominations including Graphics/Technical and Game of the Year. With over 1,150 media critics, analysts, and journalists making the final decision, we'll be keeping our eyes open on May 20th to see if Gears can add to its ever expanding trophy case.

[Via TeamXbox]

JoystiqMicrosoft's posse leads in NAViGaTR nominations originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Mar 2007 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>awardsgears of warGearsOfWargowmicrosoftmicrosoft game studiosMicrosoftGameStudiosnavigatrviva pinataVivaPinataWed, 14 Mar 2007 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Are Nintendo fanboys hurting the Wii's 3rd-party support? One fansite editor sounds off]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/13/are-nintendo-fanboys-hurting-the-wiis-3rd-party-support-one-fa/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/13/are-nintendo-fanboys-hurting-the-wiis-3rd-party-support-one-fa/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/13/are-nintendo-fanboys-hurting-the-wiis-3rd-party-support-one-fa/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Who's at fault for Nintendo's lack of third-party support: Nintendo, the developers, or the fans themselves? Kevin Cassidy, founder of website GoNintendo, places the blame on the Nintendo community for showing reluctance or unwarranted disdain toward third-party Wii games.

The rant, part of Newsweek writer N'Gai Croal's P2P series, makes a point out of Dewy's Adventure, a game he feels internet users have called in "kiddie" based on its looks alone, subsequently refusing to give it a chance. This is a problem Nintendo had when revealing Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker to be a cel-shaded romp with a pre-adolescent Link. Of course, that game sold well on merit of its Nintendo roots. Dewy's Adventure isn't even out yet, so opinions have room to alter wildly between now and its release later this year.

Is the "kiddie" problem inherently Nintendo's, though? Regard Microsoft's Viva Pinata, a game that has been praised widely but suffers from low (though steady) sales. Is the kiddie image of the title affecting other consoles, too? Cassidy opines that Nintendo fans are clamoring for "mature" titles that include violence and gore, but we feel this is a more universal trend that is affecting all consoles.

Continue reading Are Nintendo fanboys hurting the Wii's 3rd-party support? One fansite editor sounds off

JoystiqAre Nintendo fanboys hurting the Wii's 3rd-party support? One fansite editor sounds off originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Mar 2007 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>croalculturedewy's adventureDewy'sAdventurefan boyFanBoygo nintendoGoNintendokevin cassidyKevinCassidykiddiekonamin'gai croalN'gaiCroalnews weekNewsWeekviva pinataVivaPinataWiiTue, 13 Mar 2007 17:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Viva Piñata demo now available]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/13/viva-pinata-demo-now-available/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/13/viva-pinata-demo-now-available/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/13/viva-pinata-demo-now-available/#commentsFiled under: ,

A demo of Viva Piñata is now available on Xbox Live Marketplace. Clocking in at just under a gig, the demo promises to let you raise your own sparrowmint piñata. Viva Piñata vets will know that sparrowmints are available fairly early in the game, but the demo should give players about 30 minutes to an hour plenty of gameplay. Considering the high hopes that Microsoft originally pinned on the game, we wonder why it took this long to release a demo. With any luck, maybe this will convince more gamers that Viva Piñata is worth checking out. Trust us, if you give it a chance, you'll find that Viva Piñata is very addictive.

Update: It looks like the demo has more gameplay than we thought. Enjoy.

JoystiqViva Piñata demo now available originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Mar 2007 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>live marketplaceLiveMarketplacemarketplacemicrosoft game studiosMicrosoftGameStudiosrarerare studiorare studiosRareStudioRareStudiosviva pinataVivaPinataxblmxbox live marketplaceXboxLiveMarketplaceTue, 13 Mar 2007 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Win a Viva Piñata coffee mug! (coffee not included)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/22/win-a-viva-pinata-coffee-mug-coffee-not-included/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/22/win-a-viva-pinata-coffee-mug-coffee-not-included/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/22/win-a-viva-pinata-coffee-mug-coffee-not-included/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Over at Piñata Island (the information epicenter of all things Viva Piñata) they are running a contest and giving away a few Viva Piñata coffee mugs. All you have to do to enter is edit the wiki in any shape, way, or form three times between now and March 2nd. They'll then randomly select a few winners who'll receive piñata mug goodness. That's not all that hard now is it? Anyone up for changing the Horstachio wiki page to read "Definition: When you kill a prostitute and hide her beneath your hotel room bed"? Yeah ... the whitty Cliffy B came up with that one.

[Thanks, jimmcq]

JoystiqWin a Viva Piñata coffee mug! (coffee not included) originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 22 Feb 2007 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contesthorstachiopinata islandPinataIslandviva pinataVivaPinataThu, 22 Feb 2007 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Banjo-Kazooie and Viva Pi�ata sequel info]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/19/video-banjo-kazooie-and-viva-pinata-sequel-info/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/19/video-banjo-kazooie-and-viva-pinata-sequel-info/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/19/video-banjo-kazooie-and-viva-pinata-sequel-info/#commentsFiled under: , ,


In the above video, Rare talks with GameTrailers about the potential of a Viva Piñata sequel as the direction they'd need to take it to keep it fresh, as well as their plans for the upcoming Banjo-Kazooie game. Banjo-Kazooie 3 will be a continuation of the series so it will be a safe bet that all of your favorite characters from previous iterations will be making a triumphant return. That being said, the concept artists couldn't confirm whether Gruntilda would be showing up or not. Are you looking forward to Banjo's new gen title? How do you feel about a Viva Piñata sequel?

[Via QJ.net]

JoystiqVideo: Banjo-Kazooie and Viva Pi�ata sequel info originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Feb 2007 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Banjo KazooieBanjo-KazooieBanjo-Kazooie-XBLABanjoKazooieGametrailersGruntildaJinjoMicrosoft-Game-StudiosRareViva PiñataViva PinataVivaPiñataVivaPinataMon, 19 Feb 2007 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft continues to support DS, but not PSP]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/17/microsoft-continues-to-support-ds-but-not-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/17/microsoft-continues-to-support-ds-but-not-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/17/microsoft-continues-to-support-ds-but-not-psp/#commentsFiled under:

1UP asked Shane Kim, Microsoft Corporate VP, about the possibility of Microsoft games appearing on handhelds. His answer? "We do it today. We don't publish those titles directly ourselves, we are creating intellectual property that have great appeal to customers of handheld devices. Whether you're talking about mobile or the DS -- you probably won't see it on the PSP, though."

Why the Nintendo love? Well, Microsoft wants to target the kids that seem to shy away from Xbox's older demographic. Get those kids hooked on their properties on the DS, and then hope to reel them over to the 360: "Nintendo's fine. Particularly when you talk about some of our titles from Rare. A Kameo or a Viva Pinata on a DS makes a lot of sense in a lot of ways from a franchise perspective."

However, wouldn't one of Microsoft's more mature properties, like Halo, fare better on a handheld that not only has better tech, but has an audience that would be interested in such a product? Unless Microsoft has handheld ambitions of their own ...

JoystiqMicrosoft continues to support DS, but not PSP originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 17 Feb 2007 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dskameomicrosoftnintendonintendo dsNintendoDsshane kimShaneKimviva pinataVivaPinataxboxxbox 360Xbox360Sat, 17 Feb 2007 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Ten rejected achievements revealed!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/16/ten-rejected-achievements-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/16/ten-rejected-achievements-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/16/ten-rejected-achievements-revealed/#commentsFiled under:

Sometimes developers create a huge list of possible achievements for their game, have to narrow down the list, and choose which ones they want to include in the final game. There are some that get rejected because they are either too lame, too dull, too easy, or just too impossible to attain. The guys over Game Stooge put on their detective hats and went searching. They dug up unused achievements that developers didn't put into the game simply because the achievement didn't mesh with the rest. And after looking at their handy work we know why these rejects didn't make the cut. Viva Piñata's "No Incest" achievement would have been a challenge, Blazing Angels' "Victor Over Boredom" would break down even the strongest gamer, and Madden 06's "Press 'A' Button" would be ... wait a second. Didn't that achievement make it into the final game? Anyway, did anyone un-earth rejected achievements that didn't make it into the final game? If you have, we beg you to share with the rest of us.

[Via Digg]

JoystiqTen rejected achievements revealed! originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Feb 2007 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blazing angelsBlazingAngelsmaddenmadden 06Madden06viva pinataVivaPinataxbox liveXboxLiveFri, 16 Feb 2007 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Is Viva Piñata headed for the DS?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/13/is-viva-pinata-headed-for-the-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/13/is-viva-pinata-headed-for-the-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/13/is-viva-pinata-headed-for-the-ds/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Would you play Viva Piñata on your Nintendo DS? That's the question Microsoft may be bouncing around the corporate board room table, because Shane Kim, Microsoft Game Studios VP, thinks it would be a great idea. In an interview with 1UP Kim said that "Viva Piñata on a DS makes a lot of sense in a lot of ways from a franchise perspective". We have to agree if they can pull it off on a DS and want those little piñatas to reach mass appeal. What do you think, would it be a good idea for Microsoft owned developer Rare to create a Viva Piñata spinoff for a competing company's handheld? Or do you think it would be a much better fit on Sony's PSP?

JoystiqIs Viva Piñata headed for the DS? originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Feb 2007 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsmicrosoft game studiosMicrosoftGameStudiosnintendo dsNintendoDsrareviva pinataVivaPinataTue, 13 Feb 2007 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ahh cute, Viva Piñata Valentine wallpapers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/11/ahh-cute-viva-pinata-valentine-wallpapers/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/11/ahh-cute-viva-pinata-valentine-wallpapers/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/11/ahh-cute-viva-pinata-valentine-wallpapers/#commentsFiled under: ,


As part of Microsoft's Let's Play on Valentines Day celebration not only are they urging fellow gardeners to trade piñatas, but also posted some downloadable goodies too. Over at the official Viva Piñata website they put up a few downloadable wallpapers for you to send to your loved one or to simply spiff up your own desktop. And for those of you who are in a relationship, remember this Wednesday is Valentines Day. Forget the candy and flowers, just snuggle up for a nice romantic four hour Viva Piñata gaming session. You just can't get much more romantic than that.

JoystiqAhh cute, Viva Piñata Valentine wallpapers originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 11 Feb 2007 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>downloadrarevalentinevalentine dayValentineDayvalentines dayValentinesDayviva pinataVivaPinataSun, 11 Feb 2007 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rare going to reveal wild card Piñatas?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/08/rare-going-to-reveal-wild-card-pinatas/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/08/rare-going-to-reveal-wild-card-pinatas/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/08/rare-going-to-reveal-wild-card-pinatas/#commentsFiled under: ,

Over at the Viva Pinata Forum Rare's very own BIGsheep decided to run a poll asking fans which wild card piñata they'd like to see. And for those of you who aren't in the loop, wild card piñatas are extremely rare, randomly born, and there is no concrete formula on how to create them. Think of them as genetic screw ups that are one in a million. Anyway, BIGsheep's poll ends in roughly a week and we're curious to see what will happened when the poll ends. Is he going to be kind enough to show us what the wild card piñata looks like, maybe lift the lid on his entire wild card stash? We'll just have to wait and see what goes down with this wild card poll fiasco. And don't forget to vote!

[Thanks, jimmcq]

JoystiqRare going to reveal wild card Piñatas? originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Feb 2007 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>rareviva pinataVivaPinatawild cardwild card pinataWildCardWildCardPinataThu, 08 Feb 2007 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gates: If you want to play online, get an Xbox]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/18/gates-if-you-want-to-play-online-get-an-xbox/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/18/gates-if-you-want-to-play-online-get-an-xbox/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/18/gates-if-you-want-to-play-online-get-an-xbox/#commentsFiled under: , ,

In the first part of an informative interview conducted by Mercury News' Dean Takahashi, Bill Gates responds to the suggestion that Nintendo's Wii may come out on top thanks to its unique controller and cheaper price tag. "Look at the graphics," he says. "Look at Nintendo's execution in terms of online capability. We have this thing that nobody has ever seen before. When you say to your friend, hey let's play online, you say then you have to buy an Xbox. That's what 10 million people say."

When peer pressure isn't selling Xbox Live, Gates points out that endeavours like cross-platform Vista gaming and IPTV are pushing the online service forward. However, he also believes that "Nintendo did some things right," going on to mention Microsoft's acquisition of Rare and the "huge success" that was Viva Piñata. Though many critics believe the game is a return to prominence for Rare, its lacklustre sales may lead others to agree with Gates for the wrong reason -- "Nintendo did some things right" by selling the developer when they did.

Be sure to check out the rest of the interview for some interesting tidbits on the Xbox 360's IPTV, the continued absence of a larger hard drive and how Sony "didn't know what they were doing" with the Cell processor.

JoystiqGates: If you want to play online, get an Xbox originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 18 Jan 2007 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bill GatesBillGatesMSFTNintendoRareViva PinataVivaPinataWiiWii OnlineWiiOnlineXBLXBLAXbox LiveXbox-360XboxLiveThu, 18 Jan 2007 12:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Shipping this week: frickin' Lost Planet edition!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/08/shipping-this-week-frickin-lost-planet-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/08/shipping-this-week-frickin-lost-planet-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/08/shipping-this-week-frickin-lost-planet-edition/#commentsFiled under:


After a one week vacation, the world of Xbox 360 releases has returned, and no triumphant return would be complete without gifts. This week's gift isn't some crappy t-shirt hastily purchased at an airport gift shop either. No, this week is a doozy. It's a general policy that we like to have at least three titles to merit a bulleted list, but this week is special. It's the first game of the new year and it's a pretty big game to boot. As such, we present you with the combined North American/European shipping list for the week of January 8.

Shipping this week in North America and Europe:
  • Lost Planet: Extreme Condition
Also worth noting, Japan will get its first crack at Viva Piñata this week (except it has been renamed Atsumare! Piñata). Let's introduce them. Japan, this is addiction. Addiction, Japan.

So, who's picking up Lost Planet?

JoystiqShipping this week: frickin' Lost Planet edition! originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Jan 2007 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lost planetLostPlanetshipping this weekShippingThisWeekviva pinataVivaPinataMon, 08 Jan 2007 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Splitsville for Rare]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/03/splitsville-for-rare/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/03/splitsville-for-rare/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/03/splitsville-for-rare/#commentsFiled under:

Two of Rare's founders have called it quits with the company, and the internet is all abuzz with talk of Rare ... and Nintendo. Microsoft bought Rare back in 2002, and the devs carried one of the most-hyped launch games for the 360, but it's still the association with Nintendo that lingers when people mention the company. So it's not surprising, particuarly with Diddy Kong Racing just around the bend for the DS, that people have begun to speculate about what happens now.

All anyone knows right now is that Chris and Tim Stamper left Rare for "other opportunities." That doesn't begin to answer any of the questions about what this means for Rare and Microsoft, or Rare and Nintendo, or even just the Stampers themselves. What led to the departure? Rare's last few efforts, while at times critically acclaimed, have not exactly brought home the bacon, and the situation surrounding E3 2004, DS dev kits, and Microsoft's denials make it seem as though there might have been a disconnect between the development company and their new bosses. We'll keep an eye on this story as it develops -- if it develops -- and what it might mean for Nintendo.

JoystiqSplitsville for Rare originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Jan 2007 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Diddy Kong RacingDiddyKongRacingDSMicrosoftNintendoPerfect DarkPerfectDarkRareStamperViva PinataVivaPinataWiiWed, 03 Jan 2007 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Rare's brothers in charge call it quits]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/03/rares-brothers-in-charge-call-it-quits/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/03/rares-brothers-in-charge-call-it-quits/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/03/rares-brothers-in-charge-call-it-quits/#commentsFiled under:

Two of Rare's three founders, Chris and Tim Stamper, have decided to pack their bags and head for greener pastures. While some may assume that this departure is the result of Viva Piñata's undeservedly low sales and a string of games that failed to live up to their potential -- Grabbed by the Ghoulies, Kameo, Perfect Dark Zero -- Microsoft assures the world that the brothers are "simply leaving to pursue other opportunities." Studio veterans, Mark Betteridge and Greg Mayles will take over the roles of Studio Director and Creative Director, respectively.

Viva Piñata was quite an achievement, fellas. 360 Fanboy wishes the Stampers nothing but the best.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqRare's brothers in charge call it quits originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Jan 2007 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftrarerare studiosRareStudiosviva pinataVivaPinataWed, 03 Jan 2007 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Viva Piñata, the most overlooked game this year?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/25/viva-pinata-the-most-overlooked-game-this-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/25/viva-pinata-the-most-overlooked-game-this-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/25/viva-pinata-the-most-overlooked-game-this-year/#commentsFiled under:


Simon over at Game Set Watch wrote up an article explaining his reasons for why both the media and online communities haven't pushed Viva Piñata into the mainstream. Ultimately, Viva Piñata hasn't yet reached its mass appeal, yet garners not only great reviews, but praise from those who give it a chance. If you haven't noticed, all of us at Fanboy Towers enjoy the game and some are even mildly addicted. We feel the problem may be that Viva Piñata is just so hard to explain, hard to get its point across, and hard to market. It offers so much, has so many intricacies and appeals to such a wide audience ... it's difficult to package their gaming message into one nice box. Just another good read and if you haven't picked up Piñata, buy it with all the money you get from returning those crappy Christmas gifts.

[Via Digg]

JoystiqViva Piñata, the most overlooked game this year? originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Dec 2006 18:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>pinatarareviva pinataVivaPinataMon, 25 Dec 2006 18:45:00 EST<![CDATA[1UP hands out their gaming presents]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/24/1up-hands-out-their-gaming-presents/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/24/1up-hands-out-their-gaming-presents/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/24/1up-hands-out-their-gaming-presents/#commentsFiled under: ,


For Christmas 1UP decided to hand out gifts to the gaming industry's most elite, selecting only gifts that suite their prospective owners. Not only is their list hilariously true, but we're a little bitter that we didn't think of doing this. Some of our favorites have to be a one year Xbox Live subscription card to Phil Harrison to show him how an online service is supposed to work, the matchmaking source code from Halo 2 given to both Cliffy B and Mark Rein, a box of Trojans to Bethesda because whoever purchased that horse armor got it up the a**, and an apology letter to Rare because first impressions aren't always accurate and Viva Piñata rocks. We agree, these are the gifts everyone should have received. Do you have any gifts that 1UP forgot to mention and who should Santa deliver them to? Make a list, check it twice, and post it for all to see.

Joystiq1UP hands out their gaming presents originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 24 Dec 2006 22:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1upgears of warGearsOfWarpresentsviva pinataVivaPinataSun, 24 Dec 2006 22:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Get your vote on, Gamespot's game of the year]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/22/get-your-vote-on-gamespots-game-of-the-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/22/get-your-vote-on-gamespots-game-of-the-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/22/get-your-vote-on-gamespots-game-of-the-year/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


It's the end of one long gaming year and that could only mean one thing, Gamespot has just announced its nominees for 2006 Game of the Year. Among the ten nominees there are quite a few great 360 games on the list including Dead Rising, Oblivion, Rainbow Six Vegas, Viva Piñata, and our little engine that could Gears of War. It's nice to see that so many high profile games from the 360 made the list and that Oblivion may have some of its stiffest competition yet. Visit their site, vote for who you think deserves the crown, and wait patiently for the winner to be announced. It's a difficult decision so we're totally opting for a write-in and voting for Viva Gears Rising ... that's one great game.

JoystiqGet your vote on, Gamespot's game of the year originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Dec 2006 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CapcomCapcom-Production-Studio-1Dead-Risingelder scrolls oblivionElderScrollsObliviongears of warGearsOfWargowoblivionrainbow six vegasRainbowSixVegasSurvival-Horrortom clancyTomClancyviva pinataVivaPinataFri, 22 Dec 2006 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Viva Pinata's abhorrent behavior]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/16/viva-pi-atas-abhorrent-behavior/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/16/viva-pi-atas-abhorrent-behavior/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/16/viva-pi-atas-abhorrent-behavior/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Viva Piñata was designed from the ground up to be a marketing machine. Microsoft will do anything to get attention for the franchise, even splurging to make Mario López dance for us at the Santa Monica Pier. It's all good that those cute and colorful Piñata's got an E rating, but those who have played the game know that below its kid friendly E rating lies some dark AO rated themes.

Faith over at The Girl Gamer, with tongue firmly planted in cheek, has unleashed a diatribe on the sins glorified in Viva Piñata. The piñata's "dance" to breed, with no gender assignment to them, and parents can "dance" with their offspring to have more piñata children. Faith says, "Is Microsoft trying to teach our kids that having relations with your family is OK? They should have made it true to real life and had the baby piñatas come out disfigured or something ... how do we know we aren't breeding boy piñatas together?"

Viva Piñata is by no means the first production geared for children with underlying adult themes. Scooby-Doo's drug themes, X-Men's commentary on civil rights and prejudice, the Smurfs -- well, there's way too much subtext in the Smurfs. Viva Piñata clearly has themes of incest and let's not forget the fact that you raise these cute animals to be shipped off and inhumanely beaten to death.

JoystiqViva Pinata's abhorrent behavior originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 16 Dec 2006 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>incestmicrosoftviva pinataVivaPinataXbox-360Sat, 16 Dec 2006 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Holy candy Batman! World's largest piñata]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/12/holy-candy-batman-worlds-largest-pi-ata/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/12/holy-candy-batman-worlds-largest-pi-ata/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/12/holy-candy-batman-worlds-largest-pi-ata/#commentsFiled under: ,


It looks like Horstachio from Viva Piñata has been getting around lately. With the world's largest piñata party happening a few weeks ago, this week in Mexico the Xbox team there decided to create the world's largest piñata! The construction took three weeks, over 45 constructors, 800 other helpers, and came in at a whopping 4,400 pounds (without candy filling ... we think). Congrats you silly Xbox team in Mexico, that's one large Horstachio! Now if we could just figure out how to get this guy into our Viva Piñata garden ... anyone know what the world's largest Horstachio likes to eat?

JoystiqHoly candy Batman! World's largest piñata originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Dec 2006 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>horstachiolargestmexicoviva pinataVivaPinataworld recordWorldRecordxbox teamXboxTeamTue, 12 Dec 2006 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Perplexed by my quiet 360, how does yours work? [update 1]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/07/perplexed-by-my-quiet-360-how-does-yours-work/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/07/perplexed-by-my-quiet-360-how-does-yours-work/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/07/perplexed-by-my-quiet-360-how-does-yours-work/#commentsFiled under:


Recently I've had some issues with my 360. I think it decided that it would rather kill itself than let me play Viva Piñata ... but that was its decision not mine. So, I sold it "as-is" and picked me up a new one locally, pretty new box and all! Though I noticed an interesting quirk after playing Gears recently. I noticed something that didn't happen on my previous 360 model. When playing Gears, throughout multiplayer (specifically when sitting in a lobby), the humming of the disc drive couldn't be heard, because the spinning of the disc actually slowed down. My previous Xbox 360 kept rotating the disc full speed, never missing a step, and never altered the spin speed ever. My spiffy new 360 must be uber smart and knows when it doesn't have to spin at 400 MPH, thus creating a moment of silent bliss. At first it startled me as I wondered why the disc quit spinning, but now it's just a welcomed surprise to hear the quiet. Does your 360 spin down when playing certain games or am I just drinking too much Pepto-Bismol?

Update 1: It looks like I found the answer to my perplexion! Previously, my other console was rocking a Hitachi DVD drive (the more common LOUD version) as opposed to the Samsung model (which is known to be quieter and more rare). I checked out my new console and it looks like I have a Samsung DVD drive in my 360. This could be why certain games read differently by slowing down etc. Let's do some more investigative work ... anyone whose disc drive spins down during games (like mine) head over to Llamma's site and verify which drive you have. I'm thinking this is how the Samsung drive works, but we'll get to the bottom of this as a team. Teamwork FTW!

JoystiqPerplexed by my quiet 360, how does yours work? [update 1] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Dec 2006 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brickedepicgearsgears of warGearsOfWarpepto bismolPeptoBismolviva pinataVivaPinataThu, 07 Dec 2006 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Viva Piñata: candy coated crack]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/07/viva-pi-ata-candy-coated-crack/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/07/viva-pi-ata-candy-coated-crack/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/07/viva-pi-ata-candy-coated-crack/#commentsFiled under: ,


360 Fanboy blogger, Dustin Burg, laid his hands on Viva Piñata a few days ago, and my rental copy showed up yesterday. Having finished blogging for the day, I popped the game into my 360. I did nothing else for two hours straight. I only stopped because my wife came home and we were going to dinner. When we got back from dinner (coincidentally, it was Mexican food), I showed Viva Piñata to my wife.

Now, we play a few games together -- mostly dungeon crawlers and puzzle games -- but for the most part, I am the gamer of the house. Still, she loves The Sims and it shares many similarities with VP. She started playing at 7:00 and did not set the controller down until nearly 11:00. The urge to do "just one more thing" is a quality that Viva Piñata absolutely nails. Whether it's meeting the mating requirements for a species, building that house, or just planting seeds, you will always have something you need to attend to. Once you've done that, you'll remember that other thing you wanted to do, and so on and so forth. So, let this be a warning for those who haven't picked this up, and those who want that perfect game for the casual gamers in your house: Viva Piñata will claim your soul and your 360. Remember that before you hand the controller over to someone else "just to try it out."

JoystiqViva Piñata: candy coated crack originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Dec 2006 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoft game studiosMicrosoftGameStudiosrarerare studiosRareStudiosviva pinataVivaPinataThu, 07 Dec 2006 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Viva Pinata invasion results in Mario Lopez dancing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/04/viva-pi-ata-invasion-results-in-mario-l-pez-dancing/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/04/viva-pi-ata-invasion-results-in-mario-l-pez-dancing/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/04/viva-pi-ata-invasion-results-in-mario-l-pez-dancing/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


How on earth did this guy not win? Check out the moves.

Joystiq attended a Microsoft Viva Piñata event on the California coast yesterday, held at the world famous Santa Monica Pier. There must have been about a billion piñatas everywhere, but none of them were harmed during the event. Not a single one. How can you possibly set a bunch of kids loose on a bunch of papier måché animals and not expect them to a) want to whack the crap out of them, and b) grab all the candy that comes spilling out? Well, Microsoft is changing one mind at a time.

This was an event for kids, and there was the requisite face painting, picture taking, game playing, and ... Mario López? We're still not sure what he was doing there, other than the fact that yes, he's Mexican ... and was on Dancing with the Stars. Okay, so in stretch maybe we cou ... no, we still don't buy it. In addition to the tons of piñatas, the Spanish-language L.A. radio station La Raza 97.9 was also there to kick up the Latino factor with some jams and prizes. Unfortunately, there was no spicy food served at this event, much to our chagrin. However, they did have this commercial for the game playing on some sweet HDTVs. We could laugh at that all day. Well, through at least three viewings.

Check out our photocomic spread of the event after the jump. Just don't say we didn't warn you.

Continue reading Viva Pinata invasion results in Mario Lopez dancing

JoystiqViva Pinata invasion results in Mario Lopez dancing originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Dec 2006 08:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dancekidsMario LopezMexicanMexicoMicrosoftPierSanta MonicasmashvideoViva PinataVivaPinataXbox 360Xbox-360Mon, 04 Dec 2006 08:25:00 EST<![CDATA[A virgin to the world of Viva Piñata]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/01/a-virgin-to-the-world-of-viva-pi-ata/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/01/a-virgin-to-the-world-of-viva-pi-ata/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/01/a-virgin-to-the-world-of-viva-pi-ata/#commentsFiled under: ,


Tonight I'm getting my hands on a copy of Viva Piñata. I've never really played many sim games other than Sim City 2000 back in the day ... so I may be a little rusty when it comes to playing with piñatas in a living/breathing virtual world. Anyway, I'm looking to you fellow fanboy readers for some advice. Anyone have a copy of Viva Piñata, do you have any advice for me, any warnings, any crates you want to send me? I want to know the secrets to getting the best possible experience I can from this game. I guess I'm just uber excited about getting my hands on these fluffy little guys and maybe whacking one open to see what spills out. Come on fanboys, take off your alpha male hats, activate your piñata brain, and give me some advice on the world of Viva Piñata. I've got my pen ready.

JoystiqA virgin to the world of Viva Piñata originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Dec 2006 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>horstachiomicrosoft game studiosMicrosoftGameStudiosrareviva pinataVivaPinataFri, 01 Dec 2006 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rare reluctant to pursue Microsoft's vision]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/29/rare-reluctant-to-pursue-microsofts-vision/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/29/rare-reluctant-to-pursue-microsofts-vision/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/29/rare-reluctant-to-pursue-microsofts-vision/#commentsFiled under: ,

Viva Pi�ataSpeaking with GamesIndustry.biz, Rare's lead designer Gregg Mayles sounded reluctant about developing downloadable content for Viva Piñata. "We've got plenty of ideas for what we can do ... But the jury is still out," said Mayles. For now, Rare seems content to sit back and watch other studios' successes and failures.

It's clear that if Rare is to continue to provide downloadable content, it doesn't want to go the EA route; that's not to say the developer is in the business of hand-outs. Ill-reception of Kameo's premium content has forced Rare to rethink its strategy, leading the studio to consider that resources are perhaps better spent on the 'next' project. Despite forming a branch of the Microsoft camp, Rare is having a difficult time adopting its parent company's content-for-now, content-for-later model.

JoystiqRare reluctant to pursue Microsoft's vision originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Nov 2006 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>downloadable contentDownloadableContentKameoKameo-Elements-of-PowerMicrosoft-Game-StudiosPDZPerfect Dark ZeroPerfectDarkZeroRareViva PinataVivaPinataXbox LiveXbox-360XboxLiveWed, 29 Nov 2006 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Viva Pinata takes stab at Genji jokes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/29/viva-pinata-takes-stab-at-genji-jokes/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/29/viva-pinata-takes-stab-at-genji-jokes/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/29/viva-pinata-takes-stab-at-genji-jokes/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Rare's latest title, Viva Pinata, looks to have reopened the now-infamous -- and somewhat tiresome -- crab joke from Sony's E3 2006 press conference. A GameSpot forum member stumbled upon this during his game time and took a picture for everyone's amusement. Consider this one company using a first-party title to give its heated competitor a paper cut and pouring lemon juice on it.

After the E3 2006 press conference, the PlayStation 3 title Genji: Day of the Blade was derided for the description of "real-time weapon changing" and "giant enemy crabs" which you could "attack for massive damage." The meme has gone on to be more popular than the game itself, which has received poor reviews since its release alongside the PS3. Viva Pinata, for its part, has actually garnered some positive critical reception, given developer Rare some much-needed praise.

Now that Microsoft has taken the bait and retold a seven month old joke, can we please, please, please let it go?

See Also:
 Pile on: Contact takes a jab at Sony meme

[Thanks, Brandon]

[Update: Missed one part of the joke -- real time weapons changing -- and fixed Rare's first-party status.]

JoystiqViva Pinata takes stab at Genji jokes originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Nov 2006 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crabsgenjiPS3viva pinataVivaPinataXbox-360Wed, 29 Nov 2006 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Create a piñata and join the party]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/28/create-a-pi-ata-and-join-the-party/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/28/create-a-pi-ata-and-join-the-party/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/28/create-a-pi-ata-and-join-the-party/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Yesterday I mentioned the fun Viva Piñata party going down at the Santa Monica pier on December 2nd, but it kind of sucks if you don't live nearby to enjoy the festivities. No worries, because John over at Gamerscore Blog is welcoming all fans, who want to partake in the fun, to create a piñata and send him a picture of it. You can create your piñata on the Viva Piñata game, draw one, paint one, or make a real life piñata, then send him a picture of it and they'll add it to their "Virtual Piñata Wall" on the pier for everyone to see on December 2nd. They are also giving away prizes to some lucky fans who send in their piñata art. So, get to it and start making that lizardrop or batsucker piñata and your efforts will be showcased at the piñata party!

JoystiqCreate a piñata and join the party originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 28 Nov 2006 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamerscore blogGamerscoreBlogpinataviva pinataVivaPinataTue, 28 Nov 2006 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[You're invited to a piñata party]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/27/youre-invited-to-a-pi-ata-party/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/27/youre-invited-to-a-pi-ata-party/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/27/youre-invited-to-a-pi-ata-party/#commentsFiled under: ,

If you live in the LA area, have kids, are a kid at heart, or just love Viva Piñata then make your way to the world's largest piñata party! Gamerscore Blog has posted an invite to anyone interested in participating in their Viva Piñata bash that is going down on December 2nd at the Santa Monica Pier. Not only will you be able to play Viva Piñata, but there will be face painting, free rides, prizes galore, cartoons, get your picture taken with the Viva Piñata characters, and a 35 foot tall Horstachio! I know ... I'm even getting excited! And since the whole event is free, bring your kids, nephews, cousins and even the annoying neighbor kids down to the pier for some piñata fun. Thanks again Microsoft, we love your marketing events ... they make us so happy.

JoystiqYou're invited to a piñata party originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 27 Nov 2006 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamerscoregamerscore blogGamerscoreBloglos angelsLosAngelsmicrosoft game studiosMicrosoftGameStudiospinataviva pinataVivaPinataMon, 27 Nov 2006 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview: Viva Piñata]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/17/metareview-viva-pi-ata/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/17/metareview-viva-pi-ata/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/17/metareview-viva-pi-ata/#commentsFiled under: ,

Microsoft's Pokémon inspired children's title, Viva Piñata has finally hit the market and is picking up some reviews. Most of the reviews are very positive, though some note that Viva Piñata probably won't satisfy the twitch-happy Gears of War crowd. Then again, it's not really designed for action fans, though many reviews are claiming that it's actually very complex. Sitting somewhere between The Sims and Animal Crossing, Viva Piñata is performing admirably. It currently has an average of 85 on Metacritic.
  • Gamespot (8.3/10) - "It oozes charm and personality from its every papier-mâché-covered pore. While it's accessible enough for those with very little gaming experience (and their children), it also has enough depth to keep any of you with a Pokemon-style "gotta catch 'em all" mentality--or perhaps a penchant for gardening--entertained for many hours."
  • IGN (8.5/10) - "... it seems like a serious oversight to not include the ability to show off your garden in some way to your friends. Here is a game where you spend all of your time cultivating and shaping your garden space -- and you can't show it to anybody on Live. The only way for them to see it is to be right next to you."
  • 1UP (9/10) - "Rare has certainly recaptured its former glory here, and in producing one of the most misunderstood games of the year, it has also produced one of the finest in its history, and certainly one of the most intriguing on 360. To dismiss it as "just for kids" would be foolish. You are not too cool to enjoy this game."
1UP wasn't the only review to share the ironic sentiment that Viva Piñata -- a franchise specifically designed to rake in your kids' cash -- is one of the best Rare games in years. Will Microsoft's famous investment finally pay off?

JoystiqMetareview: Viva Piñata originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 Nov 2006 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>metareviewmicrosoft game studiosMicrosoftGameStudiosrarerare studiosRareStudiosviva pinataVivaPinataFri, 17 Nov 2006 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Presenting some sweet Viva Piñata swag]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/16/presenting-some-sweet-viva-pi-ata-swag/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/16/presenting-some-sweet-viva-pi-ata-swag/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/16/presenting-some-sweet-viva-pi-ata-swag/#commentsFiled under: ,


The package pictured above showed up on Gamertag Radio's doorstep yesterday. The box had a copy of Viva Piñata, a "passport" to Piñata Island, some purple Easter grass, and of course, the piñata. A sweeter piece of game related swag we haven't seen in a long time. Yes, we're afraid that it even tops RoboBlitz T-shirts. Sadly, packages like this rarely make it past the automated Nerf turrets outside Fanboy Towers -- they're not lethal, just really annoying. It's too bad really, because it's a nice bit of kit we could have given away. Speaking of Viva Piñata, has anybody picked it up yet? Is it any good?

JoystiqPresenting some sweet Viva Piñata swag originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Nov 2006 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>rarerare studiosRareStudiosswagviva pinataVivaPinataThu, 16 Nov 2006 14:30:00 EST