Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[How to connect a stubborn Wii U to wi-fi]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/19/how-to-connect-a-stubborn-wii-u-to-wi-fi/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/19/how-to-connect-a-stubborn-wii-u-to-wi-fi/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/19/how-to-connect-a-stubborn-wii-u-to-wi-fi/#comments If you get a Wii U, you must connect it to the internet. The day-one system update enables a lot of important features, like Miiverse, Wii U Chat, eShop - none of which would do you any good without internet access anyway - and even Wii backward compatibility. If that effort is hampered by inability to connect with your router, you are not alone.

Nintendo tech forum user GAMEDEV posted a guide to manually connecting your Wii U to wi-fi. We've reproduced it after the break. We hope you're able to get online and start "Yeah!"-ing your friends' Miiverse posts immediately.

Continue reading How to connect a stubborn Wii U to wi-fi

JoystiqHow to connect a stubborn Wii U to wi-fi originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Nov 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nintendowi-fiwifiwii-uMon, 19 Nov 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[5,000 new 3DS hotspots available in Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/01/5-000-new-3ds-hotspots-available-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/01/5-000-new-3ds-hotspots-available-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/01/5-000-new-3ds-hotspots-available-in-europe/#comments
A new deal will help facilitate downloading Virtual Console games or playing Mario Kart online instead of whatever you're supposed to be doing while you're out. Nintendo of Europe has partnered with free-hotspot.com, giving 3DS owners free use of "over 5,000 Wi-Fi hotspots across 21 European countries."

According to Nintendo, a 3DS will automatically find and connect to one of these hotspots, which are located in fast food chains and hotels. You can also do email and web browsing type stuff with the 3DS, though if you're like us, you probably avoid console web browsers whenever possible.

Joystiq5,000 new 3DS hotspots available in Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Feb 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dseuropefree-hotspot.comhotspotnintendowifiWed, 01 Feb 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[3DS to have access to over 10,000 AT&T Wi-Fi hotspots by late May]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/02/3ds-to-have-access-to-over-10-000-atandt-wi-fi-hotspots/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/02/3ds-to-have-access-to-over-10-000-atandt-wi-fi-hotspots/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/02/3ds-to-have-access-to-over-10-000-atandt-wi-fi-hotspots/#comments http://www.blogcdn.com/www.joystiq.com/media/2011/03/gamwifihotspots530.jpg There's no doubt that watching 3D movie trailers on your 3DS is going to make you look like some sort of future spaceman. But what good is it if you can only show off on your own Wi-Fi network?

Nintendo has heard your pleas, and will allow 3DS users free access to over 10,000 AT&T Wi-Fi hotspots by late May, Reggie Fils-Amie announced today during the company's GDC keynote.

Why yes, Starbucks patron, that is a 3D trailer for Must Love Dogs. Thanks so much for noticing.

Joystiq3DS to have access to over 10,000 AT&T Wi-Fi hotspots by late May originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Mar 2011 13:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsattdsgdc-2011hotspotiwatanintendonintendo-gdc-2011-keynotewifiWed, 02 Mar 2011 13:09:00 EST<![CDATA[All NGP models include Wi-Fi, 3G available in certain SKU]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/27/all-ngp-models-include-wi-fi-3g-available-in-certain-sku/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/27/all-ngp-models-include-wi-fi-3g-available-in-certain-sku/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/27/all-ngp-models-include-wi-fi-3g-available-in-certain-sku/#commentsEither there's a bit of confusion between regions, or Sony will offer NGP system variants with different communications capabilities in certain regions.

Europe will have the choice of 3G-equipped or Wi-Fi only models, SCEE president Andrew House told Eurogamer. "The first thing to clarify, which I'm not sure the presentation did a perfect job of doing today, is that all of the devices will have Wi-Fi capability; a separate SKU will have 3G," House said. The Kindle offers a similar choice, as does the iPad and even the iPhone/iPod Touch.

However, ITMedia reports through Twitter that all Japanese NGP systems will offer 3G. Whether there's a requirement to sign up for service with purchase, and what the available plans are, is currently "undetermined." No announcements have been made as of yet for North America.

JoystiqAll NGP models include Wi-Fi, 3G available in certain SKU originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 27 Jan 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3gandrew-housengpplaystationplaystation-vitapspsonyvitawifiThu, 27 Jan 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[OnLive to test WiFi support, extends free year offer and sale on all games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/onlive-to-test-wifi-support-extends-free-year-offer-and-sale-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/onlive-to-test-wifi-support-extends-free-year-offer-and-sale-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/onlive-to-test-wifi-support-extends-free-year-offer-and-sale-on/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We've had a good time with OnLive's "instant-play" game streaming service so far, but if there's one thing we'd change, it would be the fact that it only supports wired internet connections. Thankfully, there are enough similarly minded folks out there, prompting the service to single out WiFi support as a "top development priority" to be introduced in beta form before October.

OnLive also announced today that it is extending its Founding Members program yet again (it was due to end this coming weekend), offering a free year of service and a guaranteed $4.95 monthly fee thereafter to anyone who signs up before January 1, 2011.

For those who are already members, Labor Day weekend (that's September 4-6 -- only two days away!) will bring with it a sale on all titles in OnLive's catalog, to the tune of 50 percent off each and every one. A full list of games available can be found here. If you're keen to try out the service (or get a preview of its WiFi support) the company will be exhibiting at PAX Prime this weekend, September 3-5.

Continue reading OnLive to test WiFi support, extends free year offer and sale on all games

JoystiqOnLive to test WiFi support, extends free year offer and sale on all games originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>game-streamingonlivepcpromotionwifiThu, 02 Sep 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple iPad unveiled, like, for real f'real]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/27/apple-ipad/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/27/apple-ipad/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/27/apple-ipad/#comments It's finally over ... and it's just beginning! Apple has introduced the iPad to the world, ending a long-drawn-out development phase fraught with rumor and speculation. Today -- like, just now -- the iPad made its stage debut at Apple's "Latest Creation" event in San Francisco.

Quite the production, er, introduction, eh? Here's what we know right off the bat, courtesy of Steve Jobs:
  • "It's very thin -- you can change the homescreen to whatever you want"
  • "You can browse the web with it"
  • "Phenomenal for mail"
  • "Album, photos ... you can look at all of them, flick through them, it's a wonderful way to share. Calendar ... months ..."
  • "We have the iTunes store built right in. YouTube and YouTube in HD"
  • "And it's awesome to watch movies and TV"
  • "Even bigger than the DSi XL" (okay, so Steve didn't say that -- we did!)
Cool, but does it play games? Update: Yep, it does -- your old iPhone games! We even played a few in our hands-on preview.

Some additional specs: 0.5-inches thin; 1.5 pounds; 9.7-inch IPS display; multi-touch; powered by 1GHz Apple A4 chip; available in 16GB, 32GB and 64GB models; Bluetooth 2.1 plus EDR and 802.11n WiFi; speakers, mic and 30-pin connector; syncs over USB; and up to 10-hour battery life. First-party accessories include a standard dock (think: picture-frame mode), a keyboard dock and a case.

As for pricing, the 16GB model is $499 (or $629 with 3G compatibility); or 32GB for $599 ($729 with 3G); or 64GB for $699 ($829 with 3G). 3G-compatible models have an option between two data plans through AT&T: 250MB of data per month for $14.99 or unlimted data per month for $29.99. The data plans are prepaid and activated directly on the iPad -- there's no contract (so you can cancel anytime). WiFi models ship in 60 days (late March); 3G units in 90 (late April).

Gallery: Apple iPad

JoystiqApple iPad unveiled, like, for real f'real originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Jan 2010 13:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3gaccessoriesappleapple-ipadapple-tabletbattery-lifedockipadislateitabletkeyboardlatest-creationpricingspecstabletwifiWed, 27 Jan 2010 13:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 Wireless N adapter live in the UK, US release still a mystery]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/09/xbox-360-wireless-n-adapter-live-in-the-uk-us-release-still-a-m/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/09/xbox-360-wireless-n-adapter-live-in-the-uk-us-release-still-a-m/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/09/xbox-360-wireless-n-adapter-live-in-the-uk-us-release-still-a-m/#comments Alas, the troubled tale of the Xbox 360 Wireless N Networking Adapter has reached a conclusion, albeit not the exact conclusion many (including Microsoft, no doubt) would have hoped. Nearly two months after first being caught in the public spotlight (thanks, FCC!) - and then casually confirmed, sans press release, price, or release date - the Xbox 360's second attempt at a this-should-really-be-built-in wireless networking adapter has found its way to some store shelves, apparently.

An Engadget reader snapped the above pic at UK-supermarket Asda where the adapter is evidently selling for £49, which converts to a (relatively speaking!) very reasonable $82. Of course, it's nowhere to be found on any major US retail sites and Microsoft is keeping mum so the cat-and-mouse game continues. Naturally, we've put (another) word into Microsoft and we'll let you know when they respond with the usual shrug.

JoystiqXbox 360 Wireless N adapter live in the UK, US release still a mystery originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Nov 2009 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>802.11nMicrosoftperipheralsWi-FiWiFiWireless-NXbox-360Xbox-360-Wireless-N-Networking-AdapteMon, 09 Nov 2009 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GameStop lists November 3 release, $100 price for Xbox 360 Wireless N adapter]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/05/gamestop-lists-november-3-release-100-price-for-xbox-360-wirel/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/05/gamestop-lists-november-3-release-100-price-for-xbox-360-wirel/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/05/gamestop-lists-november-3-release-100-price-for-xbox-360-wirel/#comments When Microsoft told us that the new 802.11n adapter for Xbox 360 would be "another choice for consumers," we began to develop these crazy hopes that it would give consumers the choice to pay less than a hundred bucks for wireless 360 connectivity, either through a lower price point for itself or with a price drop on the existing wireless adapter.

If GameStop's listings are any indication, however, that's not to be. According to the retailer, the new device will sell for the same $99.99 as the current Wi-Fi adapter upon its release on November 3. Though there's still hope for the price on the existing adapter to drop, it too is currently listed at $99.99. Basically, consumers will now have the choice of which wireless protocol they prefer.

Gallery: Xbox 360 Wireless Network Adapter (802.11n)


[Thanks, Jugger G]

JoystiqGameStop lists November 3 release, $100 price for Xbox 360 Wireless N adapter originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Oct 2009 13:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>802.11ngamestopMicrosoftperipheralswifiwireless-nXbox-360Xbox-360-Wireless-N-Networking-AdapterMon, 05 Oct 2009 13:49:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft confirms Xbox 360 802.11n adapter]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/21/microsoft-confirms-xbox-360-802-11n-adapter/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/21/microsoft-confirms-xbox-360-802-11n-adapter/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/21/microsoft-confirms-xbox-360-802-11n-adapter/#comments Late last week, we reported that Italian site MondoXbox had spotted an ad for an Xbox 360 802.11n adapter in the Gears of War 2 Game of the Year Edition box. Prior to that, the device was reviewed by the FCC. Speaking to Joystiq, Microsoft has confirmed that there is indeed such an adapter in the works. Unfortunately, the confirmation was accompanied by few actual details. Other than the fact that the adapter will allow gamers to "seamlessly connect with their home network with the highest wireless 'N' technology," we don't know anything about when it will release or, more importantly, how much it will cost.

Microsoft did refer to the device as "another choice to consumers," which lends credence to the belief that it will be marketed alongside the current Wi-Fi adapter, as opposed to replacing it altogether. Microsoft stated that more details will be available "soon" and advised us all to "stay tuned."

Gallery: Xbox 360 Wireless Network Adapter (802.11n)

JoystiqMicrosoft confirms Xbox 360 802.11n adapter originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 Sep 2009 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>802.11nMicrosoftperipheralswi-fiwifiwireless-nXbox-360Xbox-360-Wireless-N-Networking-AdapterMon, 21 Sep 2009 17:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: 360 802.11n adapter spotted in GOW2 GOTY box]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/18/rumor-360-802-11n-adapter-spotted-in-gow2-goty-box/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/18/rumor-360-802-11n-adapter-spotted-in-gow2-goty-box/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/18/rumor-360-802-11n-adapter-spotted-in-gow2-goty-box/#comments
Image: MondoXbox.com
 To be more specific -- and much less acronymic -- it appears that the super speedy Xbox 360 802.11n Wi-Fi adapter has been spotted on a promotional flier inside the Italian version of the Gears of War 2 Game of the Year edition. Italian gaming site Mondobox.com (translation) posted an image of the leaflet, which you can see above. Assuming it's authentic, it seems to indicate that both the original 802.11a/b/g and 802.11n adapter will continue to exist in the same market. And that, hopefully, indicates a price drop on the ridiculously overpriced original adapter.

We've contacted Microsoft about the peripheral and will update this post with new information if and when we receive it.

JoystiqRumor: 360 802.11n adapter spotted in GOW2 GOTY box originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Sep 2009 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>802.11ngears-of-wargears-of-war-2gow-2Microsoftrumorwi-fiWiFIWireless-NXbox-360Xbox-360-Wireless-N-Networking-AdapterFri, 18 Sep 2009 17:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 802.11n WiFi adapter reviewed by FCC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/15/xbox-360-802-11n-wifi-adapter-reviewed-by-fcc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/15/xbox-360-802-11n-wifi-adapter-reviewed-by-fcc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/15/xbox-360-802-11n-wifi-adapter-reviewed-by-fcc/#comments The IEEE recently standardized the 802.11n WiFi protocol, which has unofficially been appearing in consumer electronics products for over two years now. It seems that Microsoft is planning on keeping up with the times, as the Federal Communications Commission recently evaluated an "Xbox 360 Wireless N Networking Adapter" that adheres to the new WLAN standard. Using said protocol, this new adapter should afford users double the transfer speed they had using their previous dongles, and will also provide a massive boost in connection range to WiFi hotspots.

Of course, none of this matters if the thing costs $200 -- an estimate we arrived at using the "double the antennas, double the price" principle. We've contacted Microsoft for comment on the new hardware's due date and price point, and to find out if the new model effectively means we'll never, ever, ever see built-in WiFi for the 360.

[Via Engadget]

JoystiqXbox 360 802.11n WiFi adapter reviewed by FCC originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Sep 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>802.11nFCCMicrosoftperipheralsWi-FiWiFiWireless-NXbox-360Xbox-360-Wireless-N-Networking-AdapterTue, 15 Sep 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Interview: Xbox's Aaron Greenberg on the $300 Elite and all things Xbox]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/27/interview-xboxs-aaron-greenberg-on-the-300-elite-and-all-thin/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/27/interview-xboxs-aaron-greenberg-on-the-300-elite-and-all-thin/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/27/interview-xboxs-aaron-greenberg-on-the-300-elite-and-all-thin/#comments Last night, just hours before the price cut announcement went out, we had a chance to talk with Aaron Greenberg - the often outspoken Director of Product Management at Xbox - about the new $300 Elite console, the company's Fall lineup in the absence of Splinter Cell Conviction, Netflix "exclusivity" (whatever that means), the (still!) outrageous price of the WiFi adapter, and whether we're ever going to see Hulu or Groups/Clan support in Xbox Live (those are two of our favorite questions for Aaron). Read on for the complete interview:

Joystiq: Hey Aaron - so what do you have for us today?

Aaron Greenberg: So this may shock you, but effective on Friday we are dropping the price of our Xbox 360 Elite console by $100, dropping that down to $299. At the same time, we are also reducing the price of the Xbox 360 Pro or Premium 60 gig SKU down to $249 -- that will be effective while supplies last. And this will essentially set us up as we head into holiday with a two SKU setup: the $199 white Arcade SKU and then the $299 120 gig Elite black console.

The Elite price is effective Friday?

Yes. The price drop goes into effect at retail on Friday.

So of course we're totally surprised and had no idea this was coming, so any questions that might indicate I was prepared you should just take as good guessing on our part I think.

Right, exactly. So you don't read your own site or anything I guess?

Continue reading Interview: Xbox's Aaron Greenberg on the $300 Elite and all things Xbox

JoystiqInterview: Xbox's Aaron Greenberg on the $300 Elite and all things Xbox originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 27 Aug 2009 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Aaron-GreenbergAvatarsEliteGames-on-DemandGroup-supportGroupsinterviewMicrosoftnetflixprice-cutwifiwifi-adapterXbox-360Xbox-360-EliteThu, 27 Aug 2009 18:40:00 EST<![CDATA[360 WiFi adapter for $69 this Sunday on Buy.com]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/16/360-wifi-adapter-for-69-this-sunday-on-buy-com/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/16/360-wifi-adapter-for-69-this-sunday-on-buy-com/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/16/360-wifi-adapter-for-69-this-sunday-on-buy-com/#commentsFiled under: ,


If you've been wanting to snag the Xbox 360 wireless adapter but unwilling to stomach the incredibly steep $99 price tag, we have good news. According to GamerDeals.net, Buy.com will be hosting a sale on the peripheral starting this Sunday, January 18 at midnight (PST) and ending January 25. The WiFi adapter price will be slashed by 30%, lowering the price to a (slightly) more palatable $69.99. Sure, it's still a far cry from what typical adapters cost, but it's certainly better.

If that doesn't float your boat, Buy.com will also be offering the red wireless controller bundle -- which includes a Play & Charge Kit -- for $42.99, a significant savings over the $64.99 suggested price. GamerDeals suspects the products will likely sell out quickly, and we're inclined to agree, so you might want to start warming up your clicking finger now.

Joystiq360 WiFi adapter for $69 this Sunday on Buy.com originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Jan 2009 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bargainsdealsperipheralswifiwifi-adapterwireless-adapterFri, 16 Jan 2009 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo randomly reveals WiFi Network Adapter]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/08/nintendo-randomly-reveals-wifi-network-adapter/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/08/nintendo-randomly-reveals-wifi-network-adapter/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/08/nintendo-randomly-reveals-wifi-network-adapter/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Our faces lit up this morning after seeing this image on Famitsu's site. Surely, this was it: Nintendo's long-awaited solution to the storage woes of every Wii-owning geek and otaku on the planet. Alas, no. After scrambling for a machine translation of the accompanying kanji, our hopes were emphatically mangled. This is no HDD unit, but a portable air conditioner the "Nintendo WiFi Network Adapter." Once again, life had thrown us a cruel curveball. Happy Monday morning, us.

Anyway, if you struggle to get your Wii or DS online (and we know from experience that it can be fiddly), then this dinky wireless LAN router is for you. It can be used with the Wii, the DS, your PC, and other devices, and will be available on Nintendo's Japanese homepage from September 18th, priced at ¥5,800 (US$53). There's no news yet on a launch outside Japan, though as the Nintendo WiFi USB Connector was discontinued late last year, a western release would be a safe bet.

Hit the break for three more images, one of which depicts the adapter's three modes: "Router," "Bridge" (for connecting to your Wii or DS via another router), and "Auto" (which automatically switches your network). As for our ongoing storage issues, we're still waiting, Shiggy/Reggie/Satoru ...

Continue reading Nintendo randomly reveals WiFi Network Adapter

JoystiqNintendo randomly reveals WiFi Network Adapter originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Sep 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>internetmultiplayernintendo-wifi-network-adapteronlinerouterwifiMon, 08 Sep 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[First Mario Kart competition opens, disappoints]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/01/first-mario-kart-competition-opens-disappoints/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/01/first-mario-kart-competition-opens-disappoints/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/01/first-mario-kart-competition-opens-disappoints/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Those of you who booted up the Wii this morning and checked out the Mario Kart Channel may have noticed that the first competition has finally been opened for entry! The process is simple: complete three laps of Mario Circuit as quickly as possible, upload your time to Nintendo's big list 'o times, wait until the deadline (May 9th or May 10th, depending on your timezone), and get ready to bask in internet glory. Hurray, right?

Wrong.

When we think of Mario Kart time trials, we think of gradually shaving milliseconds off of our best times, of taking every corner as finely as possible, of finding the best way to utilize our three mushrooms, of locating the perfect racing line, and of keeping our noses just ahead of the time trial ghosts. Yet this first Mario Kart Wii competition totally misses the point.

For instance, it's not a time trial at all, but a fully fledged race, complete with eleven opponents and all the usual items. In other words, you can take every corner as flawlessly as possible, only to get blue-shelled on the final straight. Which doesn't strike us as a terribly fair contest. We guess this is meant to level the playing field for newer players, but shouldn't more skillful players be justly rewarded?

Anyway, if you do want to try your hand at being robbed of a deserved victory, this blogger's best time so far is a quite appalling 2:03.325.

JoystiqFirst Mario Kart competition opens, disappoints originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 01 May 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>competitionmario-kartmario-kart-wiionlineracingtime-trialwifiThu, 01 May 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mega Man Star Force 2 coming in June]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/13/mega-man-star-force-2-coming-in-june/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/13/mega-man-star-force-2-coming-in-june/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/13/mega-man-star-force-2-coming-in-june/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Capcom has announced that Mega Man Star Force 2 will be out for the DS in June for $30. This action-RPG follow-up to last year's game follows in its Pokemon-like style, releasing in two different editions: Zerker X Saurian and Zerker X Ninja. (Huh. Where's the love for Ninja X Saurian?)

The local- and WiFi-network-able game relies on collecting new characters and collaborating with friends. With the right connections, players assemble a "portfolio of Battle Cards with distinct attributes," according to a Capcom fact sheet. We've been trying to get the kids -- and our closeted adult gamer friends -- off Pokemon for years. Maybe this is a step in the right direction?

Gallery: Mega Man Star Force 2

JoystiqMega Man Star Force 2 coming in June originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 Mar 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomcollectdsmega-manmega-man-star-forcemega-man-star-force-2megamanstar-forcewifiThu, 13 Mar 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Strange Xbox 360 signal might affect wireless LANs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/15/strange-xbox-360-signal-might-affect-wireless-lans/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/15/strange-xbox-360-signal-might-affect-wireless-lans/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/15/strange-xbox-360-signal-might-affect-wireless-lans/#commentsFiled under:

Further proving that all electronic devices are becoming self-aware and plotting the destruction of the human race, the IT staff at Morrisville State College recently found that a signal generated by the Xbox 360's radio receiver (the component that searches for wireless controllers) may interfere with other radio devices transmitting on the same 2.4GHz band. Some Bluetooth devices, like the IT staff's headsets, were negatively affected when around the signal, which constantly transmits as long as the system is plugged in to a power source.

The college's IT staff hypothesizes that many wireless LANs experience some interference when subjected to the 360's signal, though it may not be noticeable. We know the truth -- this potentially harmless signal is just the 360's way of communicating with our toaster and microwave, telling them to stab us in our sleep.

[Via EvilAvatar]

JoystiqStrange Xbox 360 signal might affect wireless LANs originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 15 Dec 2007 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>MicrosoftwifiwlanXbox-360Xbox360Sat, 15 Dec 2007 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dojo update: Friends List]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/03/dojo-update-friends-list/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/03/dojo-update-friends-list/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/03/dojo-update-friends-list/#commentsFiled under: ,



We've known about Brawl's online mode for a while now, but today's dojo update takes a closer look at the nuts and bolts of how it all works when playing with friends (you may recall that you can play with non-friends, but their name won't be visible). And boy, does it look simple.

The first thing you'll need to do, as you'd expect, is swap Friend Codes. Yes, they're a royal pain in everybody's backside, but let's face facts: due to Nintendo's "safety first" approach, they're here to stay. Once Friend Codes have been entered into your Wii, they stay there forever, allowing you to view the status of your Brawl buddies. From there, if you fancy some fisticuffs, it's simply a matter of somebody hosting the game, and the rest of your pals piling in. Piece of cake, eh?


JoystiqDojo update: Friends List originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 03 Dec 2007 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dojofriend-codesmultiplayernintendo-wifionlinesmashbrosbrawlssbbsupersmashbrosbrawlwifiMon, 03 Dec 2007 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Ars Technica tackles report linking WiFi and autism]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/25/ars-technica-tackles-report-linking-wifi-and-autism/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/25/ars-technica-tackles-report-linking-wifi-and-autism/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/25/ars-technica-tackles-report-linking-wifi-and-autism/#commentsFiled under:


An alarming press release made the gaming news circuit last week; stating in layman's terms that WiFi signals can interfere with the natural methods of passing heavy metal toxins (which are theorized as one of the causes of autism) through the body, which can accelerate and worsen symptoms of autism.

However, before throwing that DS or PSP into the nearest lead-coated dumpster, you may want to read Ars Technica's response to the press release. In it, they bring the credibility of the authors into question, and debunk the report's main argument, all the while showing the possible ulterior motives of the two writers.

Considering that the numerous health agencies that have studied the possible health risks of WiFi devices and mobile phones have never found any danger from using wireless technology, we're inclined to agree with Ars Technica. But considering the growth of WiFi technology, and the general lack of understanding about the causes of autism, we'd be surprised if this is the last report of its kind.

[Via EvilAvatar]

JoystiqArs Technica tackles report linking WiFi and autism originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 25 Nov 2007 21:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AutismWiFiSun, 25 Nov 2007 21:15:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Fanboy presents: Game Night 10/18/07 aftermath]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/19/ds-fanboy-presents-game-night-10-18-07-aftermath/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/19/ds-fanboy-presents-game-night-10-18-07-aftermath/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/19/ds-fanboy-presents-game-night-10-18-07-aftermath/#commentsFiled under:


Yesterday's Game Night was one that I ended up not participating in. I showed up, then something came up and I was away from my laptop for the majority of the time. For that, I apologize. All of you new folk who showed up, please understand that is not a usual thing for me. I just wanted to let you all know I feel pretty guilty about it.

Hit up the poll below (new and improved!) and let's get the ball rolling toward next week's session.

View Poll

JoystiqDS Fanboy presents: Game Night 10/18/07 aftermath originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Oct 2007 10:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>multiplayerwi-fiwifiFri, 19 Oct 2007 10:40:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Fanboy presents: Game Night 10/18/07]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/18/ds-fanboy-presents-game-night-10-18-07/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/18/ds-fanboy-presents-game-night-10-18-07/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/18/ds-fanboy-presents-game-night-10-18-07/#commentsFiled under:


Oh, you have no idea what a relief it is that it's Thursday. We've been waiting for this since ... well, since last Thursday. And now we finally get to take a break this evening and throw down in some DS games with you fine folks. Are you prepared? Have you told your loved one that you are not to be disturbed? You better have.

Continue reading DS Fanboy presents: Game Night 10/18/07

JoystiqDS Fanboy presents: Game Night 10/18/07 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 18 Oct 2007 10:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>multiplayernintendo-wi-fiwi-fiwifiThu, 18 Oct 2007 10:40:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Fanboy presents: Game Night 10/11/07 aftermath]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/12/ds-fanboy-presents-game-night-10-11-07-aftermath/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/12/ds-fanboy-presents-game-night-10-11-07-aftermath/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/12/ds-fanboy-presents-game-night-10-11-07-aftermath/#commentsFiled under:


Following up the first Game Night where we could take advantage of the wi-fi compatibility for The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass, we understand that the next week might seem a little less exciting by comparison. But, keep in mind that once you're on our list, you're there to stay. Unless the people don't like you, but that game is not in danger of having that happen to it.

Hit up the poll below to decide what next week's theme game should be.

What should be our theme game for 10/18/07?
Pokemon Diamond & Pearl
Mario Kart DS
Tetris DS
Metroid Prime Hunters
Planet Puzzle League
Picross DS
Clubhouse Games

JoystiqDS Fanboy presents: Game Night 10/11/07 aftermath originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Oct 2007 12:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>multiplayerwi-fiwifiFri, 12 Oct 2007 12:20:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Fanboy presents: Game Night 10/11/07]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/11/ds-fanboy-presents-game-night-10-11-07/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/11/ds-fanboy-presents-game-night-10-11-07/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/11/ds-fanboy-presents-game-night-10-11-07/#commentsFiled under:


We added a new game to the poll last week and, sure enough, you all voted for it. And, considering it stars a certain green-clad youth, we're certain that the majority of you attending this evening will have the game in-hand, ready to go. If you're new to the whole Game Night thing, then head past the break and get the info you need.

Continue reading DS Fanboy presents: Game Night 10/11/07

JoystiqDS Fanboy presents: Game Night 10/11/07 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Oct 2007 10:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>multiplayernintendo-wi-fiwi-fiwifiThu, 11 Oct 2007 10:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Warm Up: Concerns of corruption]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/22/wii-warm-up-concerns-of-corruption/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/22/wii-warm-up-concerns-of-corruption/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/22/wii-warm-up-concerns-of-corruption/#commentsFiled under:


No, not that kind of corruption, but rather the corruption of data. See, we're pretty big Virtual Console junkies around here. As such, we're constantly moving games from our Wii's built-in memory to our SD card, but recently we started noticing our SD card had a lot of corrupted data on it. Trying to copy the data over to our Wii doesn't work and we're left with the chore of downloading all of these corrupted games again.

What bugs us, though, is that the possibility of other games being corrupted is so high on the charts that re-downloading these games seems like a futile effort. So, what are we supposed to do? Wait until we feel like playing them and then decide to download them, right then and there? Sadly, yes ...

Any of you run into this problem? Has the data been corrupted on the Wii itself?

JoystiqWii Warm Up: Concerns of corruption originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 22 Sep 2007 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>corrupteddatasdcardwifiSat, 22 Sep 2007 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dojo update: Super Smash Bros. Brawl online multiplayer confirmed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/18/dojo-update-super-smash-bros-brawl-online-multiplayer-confirme/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/18/dojo-update-super-smash-bros-brawl-online-multiplayer-confirme/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/18/dojo-update-super-smash-bros-brawl-online-multiplayer-confirme/#commentsFiled under:


Nintendo fans have been gnashing their teeth and chewing their nails over this one for months, but now we can all relax and release that long-held breath: Super Smash Bros. Brawl is going to take the fight online. And we're not talking about lesser online features, either, but head-to-head matches with your friends or with anyone in the world. The dojo promises other online features as well, but this is the big deal and thus was revealed first.

Of course, because this is Nintendo, there are some inherent protections within the non-friends play. When you choose to play with "anyone," you will not see your opponent's name, and there will be no records kept of your victories (or your painful losses). But at least you can play, so we're not going to complain. This latest update also cautions that online play across continents may be slower than a match with someone relatively close by. In the end, most of the focus seems to be on friends-only play, but that was to be expected, and we're frankly excited that the "play with anyone" feature was added at all.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in!]

JoystiqDojo update: Super Smash Bros. Brawl online multiplayer confirmed originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 18 Sep 2007 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dojomultiplayeronlinesmash-bros-brawlsmashbrosbrawlssbbwifiTue, 18 Sep 2007 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Today's seriously 32-player Wii FPS: Medal of Honor Heroes 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/16/todays-seriously-32-player-wii-fps-medal-of-honor-heroes-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/16/todays-seriously-32-player-wii-fps-medal-of-honor-heroes-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/16/todays-seriously-32-player-wii-fps-medal-of-honor-heroes-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Medal of Honor Heroes 2 for the Wii sounds like a rehash of a long-running franchise. But 32-player online battles will make this shooter unique. Will internet connectivity become a key component for a great Wii FPS? The game ships November 13, marking an overdue trend of Wii games finally getting online.

Judging from the trailer, Medal of Honor Heroes 2 looks good (albeit not HD-good). See for yourself after the break.

Continue reading Today's seriously 32-player Wii FPS: Medal of Honor Heroes 2

JoystiqToday's seriously 32-player Wii FPS: Medal of Honor Heroes 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 16 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adfriendcodehottestvideomedalofhonormedalofhonorheroesmedalofhonorheroes2nintendoonlinetrailervideowi-fiwifiwiiwwiiSun, 16 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sophie's PSP choice: Wi-Fi or power]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/10/sophies-psp-choice-wi-fi-or-power/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/10/sophies-psp-choice-wi-fi-or-power/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/10/sophies-psp-choice-wi-fi-or-power/#commentsFiled under:


Originally reported by Beyond3D, apparently the PSP's new found power comes at a price. Turns out the PSP has to disable Wi-Fi to utilize the new CPU speed. Sony confirmed the information saying that the increased CPU speed does disable the PSP's wireless feature. Sony says they are "working closely" with developers to take full advantage of the new functionality where appropriate.

Developers now have to either choose to utilize the full power of the PSP or focus on multiplayer -- but not both, never both. GameDaily BIZ followed up on the Beyond3D story to find out why this either/or concept was put in place. Speculation is that it was to conserve battery power in the unit as the the Wi-Fi turned on affects battery life already, but Sony America is currently contacting Sony Japan to get the official answer.

[Via GameDaily BIZ]

JoystiqSophie's PSP choice: Wi-Fi or power originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 10 Aug 2007 21:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>powerpspwifiFri, 10 Aug 2007 21:56:00 EST<![CDATA[The latest from Warhammer 40k: Squad Command]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/03/the-latest-from-warhammer-40k-squad-command/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/03/the-latest-from-warhammer-40k-squad-command/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/03/the-latest-from-warhammer-40k-squad-command/#commentsFiled under:


Remember those Warhammer 40k: Squad Command screens we mentioned a few weeks back? Now you can see them for yourself, sans watermark, in their original glory. This is one we think will definitely look great in motion, and the online battles promise hours of fun. We're always interested in more Wi-Fi games, especially when there are strategy elements.

[Via GoNintendo]

JoystiqThe latest from Warhammer 40k: Squad Command originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Aug 2007 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gallerymultiplayersquadcommandstrategythqwarhammer40kwifiFri, 03 Aug 2007 17:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Warm Up: Did you pick up Mario Strikers Charged?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/01/wwu-did-you-pick-up-mario-strikers-charged/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/01/wwu-did-you-pick-up-mario-strikers-charged/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/01/wwu-did-you-pick-up-mario-strikers-charged/#commentsFiled under:


Being the only release this week, Mario Strikers Charged is undoubtedly a game that has emerged on your radar, bleeping and blooping in the most loud of ways. We were wondering, though, how many of you picked the game up, or intend to? Does the gameplay look fun to you, or are you simply looking for something to play online that isn't Pokemon?

JoystiqWii Warm Up: Did you pick up Mario Strikers Charged? originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Aug 2007 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mariomariostrikerschargedpokemonwifiWed, 01 Aug 2007 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Fanboy presents: Game Night 7/19/07]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/19/ds-fanboy-presents-game-night-7-19-07/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/19/ds-fanboy-presents-game-night-7-19-07/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/19/ds-fanboy-presents-game-night-7-19-07/#commentsFiled under:


Welcome to Thursday, that wonderful day of the week where we all get together and get our game on. This week, we'll be playing a Game Night classic. So, we don't want to hear any excuses! head past the break and be prepared to enjoy some Wi-Fi DS action.

Continue reading DS Fanboy presents: Game Night 7/19/07

JoystiqDS Fanboy presents: Game Night 7/19/07 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Jul 2007 11:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamenightwifiThu, 19 Jul 2007 11:20:00 EST<![CDATA[E307: Great while it lasted]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/14/e307-great-while-it-lasted/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/14/e307-great-while-it-lasted/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/14/e307-great-while-it-lasted/#commentsFiled under:


... but all good things must come to an end, eh? It's always nice to wallow in the explosion of news that surrounds a trade show, and even the diminished E3 was no exception. Sure, for Nintendo fans, at least on the DS side, things started out a little slowly, but once the media hit, we no longer had anything to be disappointed about! So what was tops for DS owners? Here's the best -- according to us, at least.

Top E3 trailers:
  • Contra 4 -- After all our Contragasms, you knew we were going to say this!
  • Front Mission DS -- What can we say ... we're big fans of ass-kickery.
  • Brain Age 2 -- We know you'll probably disagree with us here, but we can't help it. We a) dig a good, brainy challenge and b) think the selection of games looks even better than before.
Less-discussed games we desperately want right now:
  • Professor Layton and all his mysterious locales -- Okay, we wanted this before. But it was mentioned in passing around E3, and now we're more rabid for it than ever!
  • Nintendo Magic -- Another game we weren't sure would head our way, but that just sounds like fun.
  • Advance Wars 2 -- The first is one of the best the DS has to offer, though it seems to rarely get a mention.
Worst trailer that should have been awesome:

Insecticide, hands down. Please pass us some Dramamine on your way out.

Biggest disappointment:

Probably the missing wi-fi for Mario Party DS. C'mon, Nintendo, slip it in there! We promise not to complain about friend codes for at least a week.

JoystiqE307: Great while it lasted originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 14 Jul 2007 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advance wars 2AdvanceWars2brain age 2BrainAge2contra 4Contra4e3e307front missionfront mission firstFrontMissionFrontMissionFirstinsecticidemario partyMarioPartynintendo magicNintendoMagicprofessor laytonProfessorLaytontrailervideowi-fiwifiSat, 14 Jul 2007 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E307: Picross and the painted pixels]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/12/e307-picross-and-the-painted-pixels/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/12/e307-picross-and-the-painted-pixels/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/12/e307-picross-and-the-painted-pixels/#commentsFiled under: ,



The release of Picross is just around the corner for American gamers (none too soon!), and the title packs a huge punch considering the budget price. Not only does it look awesome, but it's been well-reviewed, and we'll have downloadable content. That's so great that Nintendo hardly needed to whet our appetites with a few new screens, but hey -- we're not complaining. Check 'em out below!

Did we mention the wifi multiplayer? How can it be included in a lower-priced game like this, but not in Mario Party? We love you, Nintendo, but sometimes, we just don't understand you.

JoystiqE307: Picross and the painted pixels originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Jul 2007 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcdownloadable contentDownloadableCone3e307galleryimagesjupiternintendopicrossscreenshotwifiThu, 12 Jul 2007 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Trouble with E3 Wi-Fi, especially for a press event]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/11/trouble-with-e3-wi-fi-especially-for-a-press-event/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/11/trouble-with-e3-wi-fi-especially-for-a-press-event/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/11/trouble-with-e3-wi-fi-especially-for-a-press-event/#commentsFiled under: ,


The concept of free or easily accessible Wi-Fi has apparently skipped over the city of Santa Monica and resides in the metropolis of San Francisco and the LA Convention Center. With this E3 having all these hotels spread out over many miles, how is it that the only press room is at the Fairmont (the hotel farthest away from the main conference cluster)? The rest of the hotels say they have Wi-Fi in the lobby, but at a nice $10+ price tag, with the expectation of attending numerous hotels, is a $50 plus added expense per day. Expensible or not, it's still a ludicrous crime against technology. The only thing more laughable than the price is whether the Wi-Fi will work.

Please ESA, for E3 '08, it would be nice if more thought went into having the press actually be capable of doing their jobs. We can't complain about the beauty of this E3 (the outside Microsoft press conference was very nice), but Wi-Fi should not cost anything at a press event and the expectation of everybody having EVDO cards for internet connection anywhere wasn't a necessary concept at previous E3s. When it all took place in one building, getting connected and information out wasn't that big of an issue. Free the Wi-Fi ESA, let the information flow. The irony that hotels like The Loews are hundreds of dollars a night and don't have free Wi-Fi is not lost on us. Meanwhile, the Best Western has it free in their lobby.

JoystiqTrouble with E3 Wi-Fi, especially for a press event originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Jul 2007 20:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3e307wifiWed, 11 Jul 2007 20:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Nice place to visit, wouldn't wanna blog here]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/11/nice-place-to-visit-wouldnt-wanna-blog-here/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/11/nice-place-to-visit-wouldnt-wanna-blog-here/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/11/nice-place-to-visit-wouldnt-wanna-blog-here/#commentsFiled under: ,


Above, you can see the view from the sitting area of the Loews Hotel in Santa Monica, one of many hotels hosting press events for E3. The chairs are comfy and the view is gorgeous. Honestly, could you think of a better place to blog? Sure, it's a lovely view. We can't argue with that. What's not beautiful is that there's no free WiFi for miles. The single E3 press room is a glimmering mirage far in the distance, located in the hotel farthest from all the others. Yes, at any given time, the press room (so far, the only location we've found with free WiFi [or internet at all]) is at least a 15 minute shuttle ride away. For bloggers like us, 15 minutes is a long time. Like, long enough for breaking news to become "so old."

Note for E3 Media Summit 2: MOAR WiFi.

JoystiqNice place to visit, wouldn't wanna blog here originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Jul 2007 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cultureE3e307fanstuffwifiWed, 11 Jul 2007 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New details on Ecoris]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/04/new-details-on-ecoris/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/04/new-details-on-ecoris/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/04/new-details-on-ecoris/#commentsFiled under: ,



The more we learn about Ecoris, the eco-centric RTS, the more we're planning to riot if the game doesn't get an English-language release. Get Atlus on the project right now!

The latest updates on Ecoris focus on the beginning of the game, and there are some new details on online play as well. As the story opens, our fruity hero, Durian (sometimes Dorian in non-Japanese articles) begins to notice that not all is well in the forest. Development and pollution are destroying the ecosystem. He's not alone in his observations; the squirrels have noticed the same thing. On their own, the forest creatures are too weak to fight back ... but if they team up, anything is possible.

Some other interesting facts about the game: apparently, there's a level-creation mode (we can only guess this comes in as you start to rebuild the forest), and once created, you can utilize those new stages in online battles. Our translation here may be a little rough, but it also seems as though Durian can either summon some sort of ancestral spirit, or take on its form, and you will need that power to pass certain sections.

Ecoris is sounding more fascinating every day. For those gamers for whom the language barrier isn't a barrier at all, this one is looking like it may just be a must-import title.

JoystiqNew details on Ecoris originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Jul 2007 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ecolisecorisecosystemenvironmentimportinterchannellightweightmultiplayeronlineRTSwifiWed, 04 Jul 2007 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Warm Up: A question of multiplayer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/04/wii-warm-up-a-question-of-multiplayer/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/04/wii-warm-up-a-question-of-multiplayer/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/04/wii-warm-up-a-question-of-multiplayer/#commentsFiled under:

We like online gaming as much as the next set of obsessive gamers; in fact, we even brave the friend code system on the DS every week, like clockwork, just to throwdown via the WiFi network. But just because we like it -- and sometimes prefer it -- does that mean that every game with available multiplayer needs to have online multiplayer? For that matter, does every game even need a multiplayer mode? Obviously, we're thinking here about the recent confirmation that Metroid Prime 3 will have no online multiplayer, but it applies to a lot of things. Let's take Wii Sports, for example. Tons of fun! Could in fact be online! But does it need to be? The philosophy behind Wii Sports seems to be that playing with others -- in person -- is fun. Isn't the philosophy behind the Metroid series pretty centered on the themes of loneliness and isolation, as well as exploration? With games like Saint's Row and Halo on the Xbox, online multiplayer makes perfect sense. Whether we want it or not aside ... is it really right for Metroid?

We'll definitely come on board and say that we hope that the Wii boasts many online games by the time its cycle ends. We particularly hope for at least one or two great FPS games with online multiplayer, but perhaps that's a dream. Still, is it worth hoping for online multiplayer when it runs counter to the central idea behind a franchise or game ... and worse yet, should we be hoping for multiplayer from a team who has yet to show us that they can even manage decent local multiplayer, much less online?

Sure, online modes add replayability, and that's always nice. But if that's all we need in a game, should Nintendo start tacking online multiplayer onto Zelda games, for instance?

JoystiqWii Warm Up: A question of multiplayer originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Jul 2007 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>metroidmetroid prime 3MetroidPrime3multiplayeronlineretrowifiwii sportsWiiSportswwuzeldaWed, 04 Jul 2007 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[No Metroid Prime 3 Wi-Fi for you]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/03/no-metroid-prime-3-wi-fi-for-you/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/03/no-metroid-prime-3-wi-fi-for-you/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/03/no-metroid-prime-3-wi-fi-for-you/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Sure, we wouldn't take the Soup Nazi's claim that Samus' latest jaunt will not include Wi-Fi multiplayer as truth, but when Michael Kelbeugh, the main man over at Retro Studios, says so, then we kind of take it as fact. And, that's exactly what he said in an interview with GamePro recently, dashing hopes here at Wii Fanboy Estates that the small delay the game has received was so that online multiplayer could be tweaked.

So, why no online multiplayer in a game that is begging for it? Mikey K. (it's alright, we're BFF) says it's so the single-player campaign can be the best it can be, stating "It's something we talked about early on, but we only have so many resources. We opted to devote those resources to making a better single-player experience." We're sure the single-player portion of the game will rock our socks right off our feet, neatly fold them and place them in our top dresser drawer, but we don't think it'll be so good we'll be thanking Retro for not including online multiplayer.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqNo Metroid Prime 3 Wi-Fi for you originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Jul 2007 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>metroidmetroidprimenintendonintendowiisamuswifiwiiTue, 03 Jul 2007 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Monster Rancher DS Japanese box art]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/02/monster-rancher-ds-japanese-box-art/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/02/monster-rancher-ds-japanese-box-art/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/02/monster-rancher-ds-japanese-box-art/#commentsFiled under:

It's no secret around here that we love Monster Rancher, but the latest version headed to the DS has us a little wary, and the box art isn't making anything better. Is it just us, or does it seem like this image is striving for more of a Pokémon style? With the shift to RPG, we can't say we're surprised by that.

The classic Playstation games (hailed by us many as the best in the franchise) were focused on the monsters themselves, and that focus was reflected in the box art. Here, the focus seems to be equally on the childlike trainers and the monsters both ... and that, combined with the cartoony style shown here, is what makes us begin to doubt the potential for awesome in this game. When the series moved to the Playstation 2 and took on a cel-shaded design, the games suffered both graphically and content-wise. This box doesn't give us much hope that we'll see the series returning to its (incredible) roots.

But we're still willing to wait and see, with fingers crossed and fervent hopes.

JoystiqMonster Rancher DS Japanese box art originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Jul 2007 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artboxmonstermonster farmmonster rancherMonsterFarmMonsterRancherrpgtecmowifiMon, 02 Jul 2007 17:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Conjecture Countdown: 15 days to go]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/conjecture-countdown-15-days-to-go/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/conjecture-countdown-15-days-to-go/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/conjecture-countdown-15-days-to-go/#commentsFiled under: ,


Even with a diminished E3, there's no controlling the wave of rumors that hit the Internet every year before the show. Why fight it? From now until E3 hits, we'll be posting one piece of wild speculation every day. Some may be patently ridiculous, and others just might turn out to be true. Even some of the ridiculous ones might turn out to be true! Rest assured, everything will be totally made-up and unfounded. Except, of course, when we speak about all the ass Reggie is going to kick. That part? Totally true.

Rumor: Your favorite games will not have online support -- especially if it would make sense to include it.

JoystiqConjecture Countdown: 15 days to go originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Jun 2007 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3e3cchumoronlinerumorwifiTue, 26 Jun 2007 10:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo updates site with Wii Wi-Fi goodness]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/25/nintendo-updates-site-with-wii-wi-fi-goodness/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/25/nintendo-updates-site-with-wii-wi-fi-goodness/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/25/nintendo-updates-site-with-wii-wi-fi-goodness/#commentsFiled under: ,


With the release of Pokemon Battle Revolution this week, which you all know launches Nintendo's Wi-Fi service for the Wii, Nintendo's official site for all things Nintendo Wi-Fi Connect related has updated and ... there isn't that much there right now. We're sure a lot of it is just placeholder images and whatnot, but you'll definitely want to bookmark the site for future updates as more games utilizing the service are released.

[Thanks, Ali!]

JoystiqNintendo updates site with Wii Wi-Fi goodness originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Jun 2007 16:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nintendonintendowiipokemonpokemonbattlerevolutionwifiwiiMon, 25 Jun 2007 16:05:00 EST