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[WWE WrestleFest on iOS today, coming to XBLA, PSN, PC, Android in 2012]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/wwe-wrestlefest-on-ios-today-coming-to-xbla-psn-pc-android-i/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/wwe-wrestlefest-on-ios-today-coming-to-xbla-psn-pc-android-i/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/wwe-wrestlefest-on-ios-today-coming-to-xbla-psn-pc-android-i/#comments Well, this is definitely the craziest thing to happen in wrestling games in quite some time -- and wrestling is a sport built entirely on human insanity. WWF WrestleFest, the classic arcade game by Technos, has been updated for release on iOS by THQ. The new "WWE Wrestlefest" has smoother graphics and an updated roster of wrestlers (a rostler, if you will) including John Cena and Randy Orton, alongside old-school wrestlers like the late "Macho Man" Randy Savage. It's also been modernized with "an extensive downloadable content program."

The app is available in a free "Lite" version and a $2.99 "Premium" version for iPhone, and both "Lite" and paid for iPad.

THQ also plans to release this new WrestleFest on XBLA, PSN, Android, and PC, sometime in 2012. So we hope the new version is good.

Continue reading WWE WrestleFest on iOS today, coming to XBLA, PSN, PC, Android in 2012

JoystiqWWE WrestleFest on iOS today, coming to XBLA, PSN, PC, Android in 2012 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidapp-storeiosipadiphoneitunesitunes-app-storemicrosoftmobilepcplaystationportps3technosthqwrestlingwwewwe-wrestlefestxboxTue, 21 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WWE '12 review: Men in Tights]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/28/wwe-12-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/28/wwe-12-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/28/wwe-12-review/#comments Pro wrestling has never been depicted as well as it has in WWE '12, a decidedly non-wrestling game. Sure, it's got "wrestling" embedded somewhere in its acronymic title, but WWE '12 acts like a fighting game. In pro wrestling, the "other guy" in a match takes bumps, and helps dictate the pace of the bout. The video game versions of wrestling don't include blatant options to take falls. There is no intentional means of losing to give a low-card wrestler a "push."

WWE '12 continues the tradition of advancing the illusion of wrestling. Both as a video game and as an extension of the WWE product, it accomplishes that task exceedingly well.

Gallery: WWE '12 (360/PS3/Wii)

Continue reading WWE '12 review: Men in Tights

JoystiqWWE '12 review: Men in Tights originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Nov 2011 12:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftplaystationps3thqwrestlingwwewwe-12wwe-2012xboxyukesMon, 28 Nov 2011 12:55:00 EST<![CDATA[The next WWE game is just 'WWE 12']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/31/the-next-wwe-game-is-just-wwe-12/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/31/the-next-wwe-game-is-just-wwe-12/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/31/the-next-wwe-game-is-just-wwe-12/#comments The latest iteration of THQ's wrestling simulation series is dropping the unwieldy and kind of silly "Smackdown vs. Raw" title in favor of the short, easy to remember WWE 12. Hard to believe the same series can include both a game with that svelte a title and ones called "WWE Smackdown! Here Comes the Pain." The new game hasn't been specifically announced for any platforms, but the trailer features PlayStation, Wii and Xbox 360 logos.

THQ is showing off its revamped wrasslin' game at E3 and will stream gameplay demos every day during the show next week. In the meantime, you can see the first screens in our gallery and get strangely emotional with Randy Orton after the break.

Gallery: WWE 12

Continue reading The next WWE game is just 'WWE 12'

JoystiqThe next WWE game is just 'WWE 12' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 31 May 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftnintendoplaystationps3thqwiiwrestlingwwewwe-12xboxTue, 31 May 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Have fun with your family and friends in 'Hulk Hogan's Main Event' for Kinect]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/27/hulk-hogans-main-event-kinect/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/27/hulk-hogans-main-event-kinect/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/27/hulk-hogans-main-event-kinect/#comments Hulk Hogan, the wrestling legend, Mr. Nanny star, and guy who nearly showed us his sack in a Def Jam Rapstar trailer, has his very own Kinect game coming this fall, in which he'll teach you how to be a professional wrestler. Hulk Hogan's Main Event, developed by Panic Button LLC and published by Majesco, allows players to "learn the ropes from the man himself," develop a wrestling persona and learn how to put on a show by "emulating famous Hulk poses and performing more than 30 punishing combos."

Players will create their own wrestler, including options for tattoos, clothing, body type, and entrance music, and will get to use that wrestler in both single-player mode and tag-team (in which two players take turns in front of the camera).

In the absence of an actual trailer, find "I Want to Be a Hulkamaniac" by Hulk Hogan and the Wrestling Boot Band after the break. You're welcome!

Continue reading Have fun with your family and friends in 'Hulk Hogan's Main Event' for Kinect

JoystiqHave fun with your family and friends in 'Hulk Hogan's Main Event' for Kinect originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 May 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hulk-hogans-main-eventkinectmajescomicrosoftpanic-buttonwrestlingxboxFri, 27 May 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EA Sports MMA 2 'definitely' happening]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/02/ea-sports-mma-2-definitely-happening/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/02/ea-sports-mma-2-definitely-happening/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/02/ea-sports-mma-2-definitely-happening/#comments EA Sports associate producer Jeff Ecker is totally confident that EA Sports MMA 2 will become a reality at some point. Speaking with Figure Four, Ecker didn't even spend a second beating around the bush and directly stated, "There is definitely going to be an EA Sports MMA 2." Ecker even characterized the sequel's launch not as an "if" but a "when."

EA Sports MMA reportedly only moved 45K units in its first month at US retailers. EA Sports' Fight Night: Champion is already set for a 2011 launch, so you'll be able to beat up friends relentlessly via EA Sports, even if the company doesn't return to the octagonal mat quite so soon.

JoystiqEA Sports MMA 2 'definitely' happening originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Dec 2010 13:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-sportsea-sports-mma-2electronic-artsjeff-eckermicrosoftmmaplaystationps3wrestlingxboxThu, 02 Dec 2010 13:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Lucha Libre AAA: Heroes del Ring review: Suicide dive]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/18/lucha-libre-aaa-heroes-del-ring-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/18/lucha-libre-aaa-heroes-del-ring-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/18/lucha-libre-aaa-heroes-del-ring-review/#comments Wrestling fans are a forgiving bunch. We excuse the industry's numerous problems -- the high mortality rate, intelligence-insulting storylines, John Cena -- whenever two guys do a really good job of not actually hurting each other. As long as a match is exciting, with consistent psychology, believable near-falls and a well-told story, nothing else matters. It's the same with wrestling video games; they're only as good as the matches they let you experience, which means Lucha Libre AAA: Heroes del Ring translates to "no bueno."

Gallery: Lucha Libre: AAA Heroes of the Ring

Continue reading Lucha Libre AAA: Heroes del Ring review: Suicide dive

JoystiqLucha Libre AAA: Heroes del Ring review: Suicide dive originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Oct 2010 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>immersion-softwarekonamilucha-librelucha-libre-aaa-heroes-of-the-ringmicrosoftnintendoplaystationps3slangwiiwrestlingxboxMon, 18 Oct 2010 17:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Mad Catz creating FightSticks and FightPads for WWE All Stars]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/18/mad-catz-creating-fightsticks-and-fightpads-for-wwe-all-stars/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/18/mad-catz-creating-fightsticks-and-fightpads-for-wwe-all-stars/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/18/mad-catz-creating-fightsticks-and-fightpads-for-wwe-all-stars/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Mad Catz has created FightPad and FightStick accessories for fighting games like Street Fighter IV and Marvel vs. Capcom 2. It has now announced a partnership with THQ to produce ... WWE-branded FightSticks and FightPads, for the upcoming WWE All Stars game. All Stars is supposed to be more arcade-like and feature "combination sequences" (according to its original announcement), so ... no, this just isn't going to make sense no matter how hard we try.

Mad Catz intends to produce the accessories for PS3, Xbox 360, and Wii, which means that if you missed out on the Tatsunoko vs. Capcom FightStick, you'll have another chance to get a Wii arcade stick, albeit one with pictures of wrasslers all over it. Mad Catz has declined to offer images or specific details for the devices, so we're just going to have to dream for now.

JoystiqMad Catz creating FightSticks and FightPads for WWE All Stars originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Oct 2010 15:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcade-stickfightpadfightstickjoystickmad-catzmicrosoftnintendoplaystationps3thqwiiwrestlingWWE-All-StarsxboxMon, 18 Oct 2010 15:40:00 EST<![CDATA[WWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2011 getting 'Fan Axxess' DLC delivery program]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/13/wwe-smackdown-vs-raw-2011-getting-fan-axxess-dlc-delivery-pro/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/13/wwe-smackdown-vs-raw-2011-getting-fan-axxess-dlc-delivery-pro/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/13/wwe-smackdown-vs-raw-2011-getting-fan-axxess-dlc-delivery-pro/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Bros, oil up them chests and get ready to bump 'em because THQ has announced a new DLC delivery program for WWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2011 called "Fan Axxess." Yeah, bro -- it's totally called "Fan Axxess."

Spend 800 MS Points ($9.99) on Xbox 360 or PS3 and you'll be placed in the Fan Axxess program, a system that "will enable WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2011 owners to obtain select downloadable content released throughout the life of the videogame." This "select content" will include "a number of playable WWE Legends, WWE Superstars and WWE Divas, alternate ring gear, playable arenas, a WWE Superstar Attribute Customizer, instant access to all unlockable content and an in-game badge," identifying you as Fan Axxess member.

If you're not interested in purchasing a label or its accompanied liberal use of the letter X, you can purchase each DLC pack individually. THQ has lined up the first few, so head past the break for the details.

Continue reading WWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2011 getting 'Fan Axxess' DLC delivery program

JoystiqWWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2011 getting 'Fan Axxess' DLC delivery program originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 Oct 2010 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcmicrosoftplaystationps3sportsthqwrestlingWWE-SmackDown-vs-Raw-2011xboxWed, 13 Oct 2010 09:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Fire Pro-Wrestling pins Xbox 360 release with Avatar support]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/15/fire-pro-wrestling-pins-xbox-360-release-with-avatar-support/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/15/fire-pro-wrestling-pins-xbox-360-release-with-avatar-support/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/15/fire-pro-wrestling-pins-xbox-360-release-with-avatar-support/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Microsoft is hitting Japan right in its beloved franchises. Along with Radiant Silvergun, the company announced a new version of Human/Spike's long-lived wrestling series Fire Pro-Wrestling.

The twist this time is that instead of (legally distinct) simulacra of your favorite wrestlers, you'll be able to take to the mat with your Avatar. If you make a really big Avatar, do you have an advantage?

Gallery: Fire Pro-Wrestling

JoystiqFire Pro-Wrestling pins Xbox 360 release with Avatar support originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Sep 2010 22:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatarfire-pro-wrestlingmicrosoftspiketgs-2010wrestlingxblaxboxWed, 15 Sep 2010 22:15:00 EST<![CDATA[THQ spinning off another WWE series]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/28/thq-spinning-off-another-wwe-series/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/28/thq-spinning-off-another-wwe-series/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/28/thq-spinning-off-another-wwe-series/#commentsFiled under: , ,

THQ has another WWE game on the way, joining its WWE Smackdown vs. Raw series and the new WWE All Stars (pictured). According to THQ's Danny Bilson, the new WWE "extension" shares All Stars' focus on accessibility over Smackdown vs. Raw's detailed ... simulation of simulated wrestling.

"Next year you'll see another new extension [of the WWE license]," Bilson told CVG, "that's just as exciting as All Stars, but a little different. We're not talking about that yet." He said that the plan was to release a WWE game every six months (presumably for many years to come), alternating between Smackdown vs. Raw, All Stars and this new series -- the latter two being "more friendly, easier and less simmy than Smackdown vs. Raw." There's a fourth franchise too, WWE Smackdown Vs. Raw Online, but that's intended solely for the Asian market.

If you're thinking that the "new" series will feature WWE wrestlers driving in cars and shooting at each other -- THQ tried that one already. Our wild guess: the new game's gonna really Kinect players to the Moves.

JoystiqTHQ spinning off another WWE series originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Jul 2010 20:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>danny-bilsonsmackdown-vs-rawTHQwrestlingWWEWWE-All-Starswwe-crush-hourWed, 28 Jul 2010 20:40:00 EST<![CDATA[THQ announces two new WWE games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/14/thq-announces-two-new-wwe-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/14/thq-announces-two-new-wwe-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/14/thq-announces-two-new-wwe-games/#commentsFiled under: , ,

As today's E3 festivities kicked off, THQ slipped in a pair of its own announcements: Its catalog of titles based on the world's oldest sport, by which of course we mean professional wrestling, is expanding by a factor of two in the near future. First, WWE All Stars will pit legendary wrestlers against one another. Just imagine: Diamondface vs. Mr. Grabs: The Man With No Fear. We just made those two wrestlers up, of course, because THQ hasn't actually named any specific fighters included in the game, nor do we know enough about the sport to identify the wrestlers in the image above. Aren't you impressed?

The second game is WWE SmackDown vs. Raw Online, a free-to-play PC wrastlin' title with microtransaction support that's being created by Seoul-based developer Vertigo Games. The game is slated to drop in Korea in early 2011 -- no North American release plans have been announced. Hey, come on, THQ! We like wrestling, too! (Well, some of us do.)

JoystiqTHQ announces two new WWE games originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Jun 2010 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftnintendopcplaystationps3pspTHQwiiWrestlingWWE-All-StarsWWE-Smackdown-vs-Raw-OnlinexboxMon, 14 Jun 2010 20:01:00 EST<![CDATA[UFC Undisputed 2010 video explores career mode]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/21/ufc-undisputed-2010-video-explores-career-mode/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/21/ufc-undisputed-2010-video-explores-career-mode/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/21/ufc-undisputed-2010-video-explores-career-mode/#comments If the above video is any indication, UFC Undisputed 2010 is really looking to provide a comprehensive career experience akin to what you see fighters go through in those MMA reality shows, sans the camera confessionals.

In THQ's sequel, you'll get to follow your virtual brawler through almost every facet of the sport -- from weigh-ins to training and even the WFA, to eventual UFC stardom -- picking up a rivalry or two along the way. We'll see if UFC Undisputed 2010 can pull off this ambitious career simulation when it hits the retail mat on May 25.

JoystiqUFC Undisputed 2010 video explores career mode originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Apr 2010 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>careerfightingMicrosoftmixed-martial-artsmmathqufcufc-undisputedufc-undisputed-2010wrestlingXbox-360Wed, 21 Apr 2010 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[UFC Undisputed 2010 video focuses on fighting techniques]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/13/ufc-undisputed-2010-video-focuses-on-fighting-techniques/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/13/ufc-undisputed-2010-video-focuses-on-fighting-techniques/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/13/ufc-undisputed-2010-video-focuses-on-fighting-techniques/#commentsOne of the most exciting aspects of MMA is the sheer variety of fighting styles you'll see in a single event. The original's repertoire was rather extensive: boxing, kickboxing, muay thai, judo, Brazilian jujitsu, and freestyle wrestling. UFC Undisputed 2010 adds three more fighting techniques into the mix: sambo, karate and Greco-Roman wrestling.

This developer video goes into more detail about the three new styles added to the game, emphasizing the differences between karate and muay thai, for example. With the ability to "combo anything together" in 2010, the added move list should provide a number of interesting and painful combinations to explore.

JoystiqUFC Undisputed 2010 video focuses on fighting techniques originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Apr 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>karateMicrosoftmmasambothqufcufc-undisputed-2010wrestlingXbox-360Tue, 13 Apr 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on: Lucha Libre: AAA Heroes of the Ring]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/12/hands-on-lucha-libre-aaa-heroes-of-the-ring/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/12/hands-on-lucha-libre-aaa-heroes-of-the-ring/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/12/hands-on-lucha-libre-aaa-heroes-of-the-ring/#comments Konami is no stranger to the stranger side of wrestling games. After all, it was the company that brought us the all-girl Rumble Roses. Now it has picked up publishing rights to Lucha Libre: AAA Heroes of the Ring, which delves into the wild world of the Mexican luchadores and their masked in-ring antics.

Playing an early build of the game at last week's Konami Gamers Night, I couldn't help but notice that, underneath all of the focus being placed on the type of wrestling going on, the game itself already feels like a competent wrestling title. I had a chance to enter the ring one-on-one against another human opponent and what followed was a well-paced match, albeit not the most exciting to look at -- but only because we were both just learning the ropes.

Gallery: Lucha Libre: AAA Heroes of the Ring

Continue reading Hands-on: Lucha Libre: AAA Heroes of the Ring

JoystiqHands-on: Lucha Libre: AAA Heroes of the Ring originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Apr 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSkonamikonami-gamers-night-2010lucha-librelucha-libre-aaa-heroes-of-the-ringMicrosoftNintendoWiiwrestlingXbox-360Mon, 12 Apr 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[THQ puts the Smackdown on iPhone]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/14/thq-puts-the-smackdown-on-iphone/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/14/thq-puts-the-smackdown-on-iphone/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/14/thq-puts-the-smackdown-on-iphone/#commentsFor those of you interested in wrasslin' on the subway, THQ has a new option that won't result in jail time or pepper spray. The publisher announced that WWE Smackdown vs. Raw is available now on the App Store for $4.99.

Smackdown on iPhone allows you to pit your own fictional wrestler against eleven real (at least, the pro wrestling definition of "real") WWE wrestlers, or control one of those celebrity personalities in exhibition matches. Hopefully players won't have to grapple too much with the control scheme, which uses a combination of swipes and context-sensitive buttons, in their attempts to grapple with virtual wrestlers.

Gallery: WWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2010


WWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2010 ($4.99): WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2010

JoystiqTHQ puts the Smackdown on iPhone originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Jan 2010 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AppleecwiPodthqthq-wirelesswrestlingWWEWWE-SmackDownWWE-SmackDown-vs-RAWwwe-smackdown-vs-raw-2010Thu, 14 Jan 2010 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[THQ pins WWE license down for 8 years]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/23/thq-pins-wwe-license-down-for-8-years/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/23/thq-pins-wwe-license-down-for-8-years/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/23/thq-pins-wwe-license-down-for-8-years/#commentsThe new, extended deadline for THQ to sign its WWE licensing agreement elapsed two days ago, leaving several people in suspense about the outcome. Today, THQ shared the news that it has secured the exclusive rights to develop and publish games based on the WWE wrestling license for eight additional years, effective January 1, 2010.

Not coincidentally, THQ has also settled its legal issues with WWE toy producer Jakks Pacific. THQ and Jakks will dissolve their venture using the other universal solvent: money. THQ has agreed to pay the company $20 million, along with previously earned royalties, and will pay the WWE $13.2 million.

All of the companies found this agreement preferable to the previous offer, wherein WWE and Jakks would hit THQ with folding chairs while the referee mysteriously looked away.

JoystiqTHQ pins WWE license down for 8 years originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Dec 2009 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jakks-pacificlawsuitsmackdown-vs-rawsportsthqwrestlingwweWed, 23 Dec 2009 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[SouthPeak publishing TNA Impact! on handhelds 'later this Winter']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/southpeak-publishing-tna-impact-on-handhelds-later-this-winter/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/southpeak-publishing-tna-impact-on-handhelds-later-this-winter/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/southpeak-publishing-tna-impact-on-handhelds-later-this-winter/#comments Truth be told, loyal readers, we kind of already told you about SouthPeak Games scooping up the right to publish the Midway-developed TNA Impact!: Cross the Line for the PSP and DS. So when the company recently announced that it would be publishing Cross the Line "later this Winter," we weren't exactly flabbergasted.

However, when SouthPeak's Q1 2010 financial report revealed the aforementioned last month, it wasn't clear whether the game publisher had secured rights to future TNA Impact! games or not. Speaking with representatives for SouthPeak this morning, we were declined comment on who owns said rights "other than what's in the [press] release." We've followed up with TNA and will update this post if we hear back.

Gallery: TNA Impact!: Cross the Line (PSP/DS)

JoystiqSouthPeak publishing TNA Impact! on handhelds 'later this Winter' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSNintendoscreenshotssouthpeaksouthpeak-gamestnatna-impacttna-impact-cross-the-linewrestlingTue, 01 Dec 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SouthPeak earnings report reveals acquisition of ... something involving TNA Impact]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/13/southpeak-earnings-report-reveals-acquisition-of-something-i/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/13/southpeak-earnings-report-reveals-acquisition-of-something-i/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/13/southpeak-earnings-report-reveals-acquisition-of-something-i/#comments
Remember way back in August when THQ picked up around 40 percent of Midway San Diego (following that whole full collapse thing), but left off the TNA Impact property? It would appear that the reason for this exclusion was due to SouthPeak Games snatching up the license, as revealed by a recent Q1 2010 financial report released by the company.

The "acquisition" is first noted in the report's "Highlights of the Quarter" section. "Acquired in bankruptcy certain assets owned by Midway relating to video games based on the TNA iMPACT wrestling brand." We asked SouthPeak who would be in charge of developing the next game in that series, said in the report to be released "this year" (2010), and found out that such information has yet to be announced, unfortunately. Currently, SouthPeak is only known to be publishing TNA Impact: Cross the Line for the PSP and Nintendo DS.

When we explored the SEC filing from Midway on the sale, the wording got much more ambiguous. One notable exclusion from the $100k purchase is, "the TNA License and Sellers' rights thereunder." When we asked SouthPeak to clear up exactly what the company bought, we were told that, while it "can confirm the details of the release and filing," no comment is currently available - though we were assured that we'll be hearing more details "soon."

JoystiqSouthPeak earnings report reveals acquisition of ... something involving TNA Impact originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acquisitionbusinesscross-the-linefinancial-reportmidwaymidway-gamessecsouthpeaksouthpeak-gamestnatna-impacttna-impact-cross-the-linetna-wrestlingwrestlingFri, 13 Nov 2009 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[THQ stock loses 12 percent after WWE extension]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/03/thq-stock-loses-12-percent-after-wwe-extension/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/03/thq-stock-loses-12-percent-after-wwe-extension/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/03/thq-stock-loses-12-percent-after-wwe-extension/#comments It seems investors are unhappy that one of THQ's most important relationships continues to be in flux. After the news that the company was extending its renewal notice with the WWE on October 28, its stock has lost 12 percent of its value, according to GameIndustry.biz. When compared to its worth on September 23, the company is down 26 percent.

THQ's convoluted relationship with JAKKS Pacific and the WWE is fully explained here, but it suffices to say that things are pretty messy right now, and it seems the stockholders are getting impatient for tidiness.

JoystiqTHQ stock loses 12 percent after WWE extension originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jakks-pacificthqwrasslingwrestlingwweTue, 03 Nov 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[THQ announces extension of WWE renewal notice; Pachter explains]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/28/thq-announces-extension-of-wwe-renewal-notice-pachter-explains/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/28/thq-announces-extension-of-wwe-renewal-notice-pachter-explains/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/28/thq-announces-extension-of-wwe-renewal-notice-pachter-explains/#comments
THQ announced today that World Wrestling Entertainment has extended a deadline that allows the publisher to renew its licensing contract. The extension lasts until December 21, 2009 -- the original deadline was November 1. If signed, the agreement would be good through December 31, 2014.

THQ is cool with the WWE, but it's not very chummy with JAKKS Pacific, its longtime partner in the WWE licensing venture. The wounds also run deep between JAKKS and the WWE. When asked for comment on the license renewal and further details regarding the three-way deal, a THQ representative told Joystiq that the publisher plans to renew its contract with the WWE, and then added, "Beyond that, I cannot comment."

The business, politics and legal issues are certainly complicated. We spoke with Wedbush Morgan analyst Michael Pachter who laid out multiple scenarios, but in the end he believes the most likely outcome is that the joint venture between THQ and JAKKS will be terminated. If JAKKS enforces its (believed to be one-year) non-compete clause, then no WWE games can be produced. Neither side would benefit from that, however.

Pachter suggests that the WWE's renewal deadline was extended to give THQ and JAKKS time to settle their issues. What it sounds like to us: THQ and WWE want to move forward as a couple, and the previous arrangement, featuring JAKKS as the third wheel, has worn out its welcome. Check out Pachter's complete analysis after the break.

Continue reading THQ announces extension of WWE renewal notice; Pachter explains

JoystiqTHQ announces extension of WWE renewal notice; Pachter explains originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Oct 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contractsextensionjakksjakks-pacificlawsuitlicenselicensingrenewalthqwrestlingwweWed, 28 Oct 2009 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[WWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2010 dated, detailed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/24/wwe-smackdown-vs-raw-2010-dated-detailed/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/24/wwe-smackdown-vs-raw-2010-dated-detailed/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/24/wwe-smackdown-vs-raw-2010-dated-detailed/#comments Other than a recent countdown offered by THQ, we haven't heard much about the publisher's next effort in its longtime wrestling franchise, WWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2010. Today though, THQ announced an October 20 release date for the game, along with a clear marketing push towards online play.

Nelo Lucich, a senior VP at licensor JAKKS Pacific, leads the charge, saying, "The vast array of creative and online options allow players the ability to create their own unique Superstars, right down to their tattoos and customized ring gear." He goes on to tout the game's "Community Creations interface" and other options for online play, remaining confident. And maybe he should be, considering the game's October release now has a much better chance of standing out in a delay-riddled holiday season than ever before.

JoystiqWWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2010 dated, detailed originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSjakks-pacificMicrosoftnelo-lucichNintendorelease-dateTHQWiiwrestlingWWEWWE-SmackDownWWE-SmackDown-vs-RAWWWE-SmackDown-vs-RAW-2010Xbox-360YukesMon, 24 Aug 2009 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[THQ begins a countdown to Smackdown]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/17/thq-begins-a-countdown-to-smackdown/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/17/thq-begins-a-countdown-to-smackdown/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/17/thq-begins-a-countdown-to-smackdown/#commentsThis might be the weirdest variant of the reviled countdown site yet. We know exactly what the countdown is for -- WWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2010 -- and, since it's an annual sports franchise, we don't really expect surprises. But there it is, counting down three days until we'll see the roster, media, downloads, list of features, and other areas of what promises to be a bog-standard game website.

Of course, the big attraction here is what the new game will look like. However, since that was revealed on Late Night With Jimmy Fallon, that leaves ... the downloads? Who will appear on the downloadable desktop wallpaper. FIND OUT in three days!

JoystiqTHQ begins a countdown to Smackdown originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Aug 2009 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>countdownMicrosoftNintendoTHQWiiwrestlingWWEWWE-SmackDownWWE-SmackDown-vs-RAWWWE-SmackDown-vs-RAW-2010Xbox-360YukesMon, 17 Aug 2009 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[JAKKS wants to keep WWE, THQ not quite sure]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/01/jakks-wants-to-keep-wwe-thq-not-quite-sure/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/01/jakks-wants-to-keep-wwe-thq-not-quite-sure/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/01/jakks-wants-to-keep-wwe-thq-not-quite-sure/#comments
JAKKS is more than happy to reenter into its WWE licensing deal with THQ, but the gaming company isn't so sure it's ready to make a commitment. After JAKKS signed on the dotted line to extend its gaming agreement with the wrestling group for five years, THQ sued the toymaker, saying it wasn't ready to make a decision and that JAKKS had no right to sign the agreement without THQ's consent.

There were some reportedly shady dealings when JAKKS originally got the contract -- perhaps THQ wants to get the whole pie for itself. Who knows? Either way, the two companies have entered into arbitration, so hopefully the tiff won't have an impact on releases.

JoystiqJAKKS wants to keep WWE, THQ not quite sure originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jakkslawsuitMicrosoftsportsthqwrestlingwweXbox-360Wed, 01 Jul 2009 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lucha libre game coming to America]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/24/lucha-libre-game-coming-to-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/24/lucha-libre-game-coming-to-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/24/lucha-libre-game-coming-to-america/#comments If your thirst for over-the-top brawling wasn't quite quenched by UFC 2009: Undisputed, perhaps you should turn your attention to a fighting style with a bit more Latin flavor -- we speak, of course, of the divine art of Lucha libre, featured in the new project from young publisher Slang, titled AAA: El Videojuego (that's Spanish for "the video game," dontchaknow). The debut trailer for the game is posted after the jump.

The game's being developed for Xbox 360 and PS3 by Immersion Software and for Wii, PSP and DS by Argentine developer Sabarasa Studios. The 360 and PS3 versions are due out in late 2009 or early 2010, with all others following shortly thereafter. The game focuses on the action and the stars of the AAA wrestling league -- our personal favorite is La Parka, who's known for his Flying Eagle Kick maneuver, as well as his proclivity for delivering cans of gasoline to stranded motorists.

Continue reading Lucha libre game coming to America

JoystiqLucha libre game coming to America originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Jun 2009 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aaaaaa-el-videojuegoDSlucha-librelucha-libre-aaa-heroes-of-the-ringMicrosoftNintendoWiiwrestlingXbox-360Wed, 24 Jun 2009 12:31:00 EST<![CDATA[VC Tuesday: Japan celebrates Super Smash Bros. Day]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/20/vc-tuesday-japan-celebrates-super-smash-bros-day/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/20/vc-tuesday-japan-celebrates-super-smash-bros-day/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/20/vc-tuesday-japan-celebrates-super-smash-bros-day/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The day is finally here! Well, not here here. But there are people in the world playing vintage Super Smash Bros. on their Wiis right now, and we declare that to be boss. They're paying 1,200 Wii Points for the privilege, but Japanese Wii owners have probably forgotten how much Nintendo 64 games are supposed to cost on the Virtual Console anyway.

Poor Champion Wrestler is doomed. This just isn't the week for another 4-player competitive fighting game starring at least one vintage game character (Rastan Saga's title character, in the Ultimate Warrior-esque guise of "Miracle Rastan").
There's no competition between the VC and WiiWare this week. Here's Japan's WiiWare lineup:
  • Nothing (Just Play Smash Bros., Seriously)

JoystiqVC Tuesday: Japan celebrates Super Smash Bros. Day originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Jan 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>champion-wrestlerfightingnintendo-64smash-brostaitovctuesdaywrestlingTue, 20 Jan 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Barackdown vs. Raw-dham Clinton 2008]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/22/barackdown-vs-raw-dham-clinton-2008/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/22/barackdown-vs-raw-dham-clinton-2008/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/22/barackdown-vs-raw-dham-clinton-2008/#commentsFiled under:

Ripped from the headlines: Using WWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2008's create-a-wrestler mode, THQ has done their own take on the Democratic presidential rivalry. They designed characters who sorta resemble presidential candidates Barack Obama and Hillary Rodham Clinton, as long as you're told who they're supposed to be first.

The two politicians run out and play to the crowd, then face off, totally about to wrassle, when the clip unfortunately ends. We wanted to see what Senator Clinton's finishing move was! We wanted to learn the candidates' positions on the issue of "folding chairs: now or later?"

You know, we wouldn't mind fake physical combat as a campaign method. It's not like anyone talks about real policy at debates anyway.

JoystiqBarackdown vs. Raw-dham Clinton 2008 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 Apr 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clintonobamasmackdown-vs-rawsmackdown-vs-raw-2008wrestlingwweTue, 22 Apr 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bodyslam these TNA iMPACT! screens]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/07/bodyslam-these-tna-impact-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/07/bodyslam-these-tna-impact-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/07/bodyslam-these-tna-impact-screens/#commentsFiled under:


Total Nonstop Action Wrestling has pushed itself to the limelight for wrestling fans and a suitable contender for title-belt raising WWE crowd. Midway, agreeing with TNA's ladder-climbing popularity, have scooped up the franchise and is set to release TNA iMPACT! in order to compete with THQ's WWE series later this year.

Today we bring your six fresh screens of the upcoming Xbox 360 and PS3 release, complete with body slamming action. While we can't say for sure which franchise looks like the true number one contender, we wouldn't mind watching these two go at it in a winner-takes-all cage match.

Note: Bonus points for anyone who can name all of my horrible wrestling references in this story.

JoystiqBodyslam these TNA iMPACT! screens originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 07 Apr 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2008-releasesmidwaytna-impactwrestlingMon, 07 Apr 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Smackdown vs. Raw '09 tags in with debut trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/31/smackdown-vs-raw-09-tags-in-with-debut-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/31/smackdown-vs-raw-09-tags-in-with-debut-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/31/smackdown-vs-raw-09-tags-in-with-debut-trailer/#commentsFiled under:


We didn't know wrestling was still popular enough to warrant an annual release, but over the weekend THQ dropped the trailer for WWE: Smackdown vs. Raw 2009. The video showcases the latest feature for the upcoming title, co-op story mode. While we're sure there is still a group of fans clamoring for a "chair-shot to the face" good time, we wonder if we really need another WWE game every year? Madden's annual release already gets us annoyed but we understand the reasoning behind it, but does including one new addition and swapping some characters in the roster really need another $60 price tag?

JoystiqSmackdown vs. Raw '09 tags in with debut trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 31 Mar 2008 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>THQwrestlingWWEWWE-SmackDownWWE-SmackDown-vs-RAWWWE-SmackDown-vs-RAW-2009YukesMon, 31 Mar 2008 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[WWE SmackDown vs. RPG]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/31/wwe-smackdown-vs-rpg/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/31/wwe-smackdown-vs-rpg/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/31/wwe-smackdown-vs-rpg/#commentsFiled under: ,

There's somewhat of a trend forming in DS sports games -- developers eschewing straight sports simulations in favor of bizarre experiences. We've seen it in MLB 2K8 Fantasy All-Stars, and now we're seeing it in WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009. THQ has hired Japanese "ninja developer" TOSE (best known for Super Princess Peach, the Stafy games, and being mysterious) to create their latest DS wrestling game.

They have bizarred it up indeed, adding an out-of-ring mode in which the backstage area is full of NPCs and rendered environments, much like an RPG overworld. You'll travel around taking on missions and interacting with other wrestlers as you try to level up your character's various attributes, like "Sweatiness," "Shirt-tearing" and "Catchphrases."*

It actually sounds like a really cool take on the RPG. It's like Puzzle Quest, but with wrasslin'! Unfortunately, the screenshots so far don't really show anything but creepy 3D models.

*not actual attributes

JoystiqWWE SmackDown vs. RPG originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 31 Mar 2008 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>smackdown-vs-rawthqtosewrestlingwweMon, 31 Mar 2008 09:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Smackdown someone for $25 today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/24/smackdown-someone-for-25-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/24/smackdown-someone-for-25-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/24/smackdown-someone-for-25-today/#commentsFiled under:

Not many of you seemed too excited when WWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2008 came out, but then again, that was the same week as Super Mario Galaxy's North American release. Also, at that time, the game would have cost you a cool $50 to buy.

Now, though, thanks to Amazon and its video game "Deal of the Day" promotion, you can get the game for half the price (or, for those of you that are terrible at math, $25). As per usual, this sale will end at 3 A.M. EDT, so if you want this title you better be ready to succumb to your inner impulse buyer.

Also, if you like to wrassle but aren't too keen on doing so on your Wii, today's DotD extends to every other console under the sun.

JoystiqSmackdown someone for $25 today originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 24 Mar 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazondeal-of-the-daydotdraw-vs-smackdown-2008sportsthqwrestlingwweMon, 24 Mar 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[THQ earns more sales, less profits, lots of licenses]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/05/thq-earns-more-sales-less-profits-lots-of-licenses/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/05/thq-earns-more-sales-less-profits-lots-of-licenses/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/05/thq-earns-more-sales-less-profits-lots-of-licenses/#commentsFiled under:

For its third fiscal quarter through the holiday season, publisher THQ saw their sales boost to $509.6 million but profits down to $15.5 million (via Gamasutra). Comparatively, last year they had $475.7 million in sales (a 7% raise) and $62.1 million in profit (a 75% drop). THQ also had $27 million in non-cash charges due to the cancellations of Juiced and Stuntman.

Big sellers include THQ's licenses. Life to date sales from Nickelodeon projects total $1 billion, and WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 enjoyed a whopping five million in unit sales -- behold the power of licensing.

JoystiqTHQ earns more sales, less profits, lots of licenses originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Feb 2008 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carsnicknickelodeonthqwrestlingwweTue, 05 Feb 2008 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Today's manliest video of manliness: TNA Impact trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/11/todays-manliest-video-of-manliness-tna-impact-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/11/todays-manliest-video-of-manliness-tna-impact-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/11/todays-manliest-video-of-manliness-tna-impact-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , ,

What is TNA? Trilateral Nuclear Abominations? Trigonometric Narcissists Association? Tits 'n' a ... ah, nevermind, it's Total Nonstop Action Wrestling. And that's just about the best explanation for the TNA Impact trailer, which debuted last night on Spike's VGAs.

We're told wrestling is a very manly sport; however, we don't remember seeing it in Maddox's The Alphabet of Manliness, which is our reference guide for such things. (It should be noted that female wrestling is listed under section 'F.') Video embedded after the break; if in the event there is not enough manliness in the TNA Impact trailer, we've also embedded a video dose of menergy as supplement.

Continue reading Today's manliest video of manliness: TNA Impact trailer

JoystiqToday's manliest video of manliness: TNA Impact trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Dec 2007 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hottestvideotnatna-impactwrestlingTue, 11 Dec 2007 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bikinis and bodyslams in Smackdown Vs Raw commercial]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/28/bikinis-and-bodyslams-in-smackdown-vs-raw-commercial/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/28/bikinis-and-bodyslams-in-smackdown-vs-raw-commercial/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/28/bikinis-and-bodyslams-in-smackdown-vs-raw-commercial/#commentsFiled under:


We recognize that this SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 commercial does a great job of selling the game to its core demographic, but, to us, it's a sad reminder of what the World Wrestling Federation has become.

Remember how the Bushwackers used to stomp around their downed adversaries? Remember when you thought the Undertaker was for real and that someone was surely going to die by the match's end? Remember Hulk Hogan running up to the ring with an American Flag in tow, ripping apart his sleeveless yellow shirt to reveal his oiled chest to a throng of frenzied, heterosexual men, everyone chanting, "U-S-A! U-S-A!"

Gone are those glory days -- the greatest days, some would call them. THQ's commercial is representative of what the WWE has celebrated in their stead: gratuitous displays of flesh, jackasses walking around with open shirts like that's the proper order of business, and crotch-chop gestures accompanied by some scoundrel telling you to "suck it." If you're exhausted with our nostalgia-tinged rant and would rather watch an extended, minute-long version of the ad, bring your best moves past the post break.

Continue reading Bikinis and bodyslams in Smackdown Vs Raw commercial

JoystiqBikinis and bodyslams in Smackdown Vs Raw commercial originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Nov 2007 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>commercialsmackdown-vs-rawthqwrestlingwweyukesWed, 28 Nov 2007 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: The greatest wrestling game of all time could come to the VC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/12/rumor-the-greatest-wrestling-game-of-all-time-could-come-to-the/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/12/rumor-the-greatest-wrestling-game-of-all-time-could-come-to-the/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/12/rumor-the-greatest-wrestling-game-of-all-time-could-come-to-the/#commentsFiled under: ,

If you had a N64 and friends, then you probably played a couple of different games on the regular. Some game starring a "Bond. Mr. James Bond" or something, called Goldeneye 007, seemed to be the crowd favorite. Another game some would say was quite popular was Mario Kart 64, a game that involved kart racing and some guy with a mustache. Last, but not least (for us, anyway), was a series of wrestling games based on both the WCW and WWF (a magical time when one guy didn't totally destroy what used to be a kind of fun program to watch).

Now, the last amazing wrestling game that the N64 would ever see (and most would agree, gaming as a whole) might be making its way onto the Virtual Console. But, it won't be the same game you remember, because word on the street is that it's to be updated with the current roster of WWE superstars. While we could care less about the new crop of wrestlers, we could easily create all of our old favorites using the awesome character creation mode.

Who else is with us in wanting this game?

[Via Game | Life]

JoystiqRumor: The greatest wrestling game of all time could come to the VC originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Nov 2007 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>akithqwrestlingMon, 12 Nov 2007 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Virtually Overlooked: M.U.S.C.L.E.]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/08/virtually-overlooked-m-u-s-c-l-e/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/08/virtually-overlooked-m-u-s-c-l-e/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/08/virtually-overlooked-m-u-s-c-l-e/#commentsFiled under:

Welcome to our weekly feature, Virtually Overlooked, wherein we talk about games that aren't on the Virtual Console yet, but should be. Call it a retro-speculative.

It's plainly obvious that we love talking about terrible NES games here in the Virtually Overlooked squad command center. According to a statistic that we just made up, about 72% of the games we profile are awful. Nothing is more fun than snarking about a game that is not only completely without merit or value, but also old enough that nobody will show up to defend it.

But what isn't so obvious is the fact that we genuinely, honestly love playing some of the worst NES games. Whether it's a result of nostalgia or some kind of bizarre preference for poor game design, we don't know. But the fact is that we would give serious consideration to buying a virtual copy of M.U.S.C.L.E., despite owning the cartridge.

Continue reading Virtually Overlooked: M.U.S.C.L.E.

JoystiqVirtually Overlooked: M.U.S.C.L.E. originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Nov 2007 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandaimuscleneswrestlingThu, 08 Nov 2007 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Arcade arm-wrestling game pulled for arm wrecking]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/21/arcade-arm-wrestling-game-pulled-for-arm-wrecking/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/21/arcade-arm-wrestling-game-pulled-for-arm-wrecking/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/21/arcade-arm-wrestling-game-pulled-for-arm-wrecking/#commentsFiled under:

Japanese arm-wrestling game, Arm Spirit, had to be yanked from Japanese arcades this week after displaying inhuman strength and breaking the arms of three would-be challengers. This bicep battle between man and machine is obviously similar to real arm wrestling, with the disturbing exception that your opponent's cold hand has no body to go with it. Instead, the appendage is part of an electronic box which mocks you in beeps and boops as it snaps your arm like a twig.

A spokeswoman for game distributor Atlus told the Associated Press that the recall was a "precaution," implying that the organic meatbags of Japan should put some effort into it and realize that the world meets nobody halfway. "The machine isn't that strong, much less so than a muscular man," said Ayano Sakiyama. "Even women should be able to beat it."

We're not sure how Ms. Sakiyama would fare when pitted against the mangler of limbs, but she apparently had enough energy to manage a firm shrug. "We think that maybe some players get overexcited and twist their arms in an unnatural way."

[Thanks, Charlie]

JoystiqArcade arm-wrestling game pulled for arm wrecking originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Aug 2007 19:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AtlusJapanRasslinWrestlingTue, 21 Aug 2007 19:43:00 EST<![CDATA[No More Heroes site updates]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/03/no-more-heroes-site-updates/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/03/no-more-heroes-site-updates/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/03/no-more-heroes-site-updates/#commentsFiled under:



The No More Heroes site continues to leak bits and pieces of information -- just enough to keep us drooling -- and this latest update covers some of the ground already tread by this morning's video. Our hero Travis and his beam katana are the center of the new information, which is all about combat and the tools of the assassination trade. The beam katana can be used to deflect bullets (where've we seen that before?), but it's not a never-ending source of bloody awesome; like any gadget, it can run out of juice. Luckily, there are battery packs scattered around, but in the event you can't find one and find yourself in need of a good cutting edge, you can always get your waggle-charge on. Charging the katana is as simple as jerking the Wiimote up and down.

The updates also show off something we've already seen -- Travis's penchant for wrestling moves -- and a shot of a fight brought to a grappling standstill. The image isn't terribly clear, but it seems that with a turn of the Wii remote, it's possible to break free and beat your opponent down.

We couldn't possibly want this game more, but at this point, all we really want is to find out just what's up with the tiger indicator on the upper part of the screen. In videos, it can be seen wiggling around, and in these screens, it looks like he takes a little tiger-journey across the top of the image, but for what reason? We can wait for the game, but we must know the secret of the tiger! Perhaps he's like a pet, feeding on the blood of your enemies. It's either that, or he's linked to all the tiger rugs we keep seeing in the game.

JoystiqNo More Heroes site updates originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Jul 2007 16:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionbeam katanaBeamKatanacombatgrasshopper manufactureGrasshopperManufactureMarvelous InteractiveMarvelousInteractiveno more heroesNoMoreHeroessuda 51Suda51tigertraviswrestlingTue, 03 Jul 2007 16:35:00 EST<![CDATA[THQ profits show power of licensing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/03/thq-profits-show-power-of-licensing/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/03/thq-profits-show-power-of-licensing/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/03/thq-profits-show-power-of-licensing/#commentsFiled under:

Publisher THQ has posted net sales of more than $1 billion in their 2007 fiscal year, reportedly their 12th consecutive year of revenue growth. According to their annual financial report (PDF file), the company also managed to ship eight titles that exceeded one million units in sales. Their secret to success? Licensed titles.

The annual report revealed that THQ's focus was 80% licensed intellectual property and 20% owned IP -- a 4-to-1 ratio. Key achievements include shipping 8 million units of Disney/Pixar's Cars, 4 million units of WWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2007 and 4 million units combined of Nickelodeon franchises.

THQ did establish two franchises this fiscal year, Saint's Row and Company of Heroes, and this upcoming fiscal year, THQ intends to increase its focus on owned IPs to a 33% share on the pie graph -- that's now only a 2-to-1 ratio of licensed-to-owned IP.

Sure, licensed games may not be the most anticipated titles (or even the ones to receive the most coverage from the gaming press), but they do wonders to a publisher's bottom line.

JoystiqTHQ profits show power of licensing originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Jul 2007 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessdisneylicensenickelodeonpixarthqufcwrestlingwweTue, 03 Jul 2007 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[WWE Smackdown vs Raw 2008 could bring fun wrestling games back to Nintendo]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/02/wwe-smackdown-vs-raw-2008-could-bring-fun-wrestling-games-back-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/02/wwe-smackdown-vs-raw-2008-could-bring-fun-wrestling-games-back-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/02/wwe-smackdown-vs-raw-2008-could-bring-fun-wrestling-games-back-t/#commentsFiled under:


Remember way back during the days of the N64 when wrestling games were pretty much the most fun thing to play? You would talk so much trash to your friends, about how you could totally own them with Eric Bischoff and his, like, 5 different moves? Tossing your opponent outside the ring, only to rain down on them with chair strikes over and over and over ...

Well, those were the days and, based on the embedded video past the post break, they could very well be returning. The video gives us a gameplay demonstration on how the Wiimote and nunchuk will work together and allow you to destroy your opponents in the ring.

[via Gaming Age]

Continue reading WWE Smackdown vs Raw 2008 could bring fun wrestling games back to Nintendo

JoystiqWWE Smackdown vs Raw 2008 could bring fun wrestling games back to Nintendo originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Apr 2007 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nintendonintendowiinunchuksmackdownsmackdownvsrawsvrvideowiiwiimotewrestlingMon, 02 Apr 2007 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Whopping Wii remote comic]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/19/whopping-wii-remote-comic/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/19/whopping-wii-remote-comic/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/19/whopping-wii-remote-comic/#commentsFiled under: ,

We played the "What if?" game with our friends a lot during our younger years. Our school playground was a montessori arena for cartwheels and slow motion kicks as we acted out, "What if we were Power Rangers?" Tired from our recess shenanigans, we would brood over notes we passed in class, wondering, "What if it rained candy? Seriously, wouldn't that be rad?" We eventually put the childish pastime behind us, realizing that it wasn't appropriate to ask our best friends, "What if I was a guy who wanted to date your sister?"

Buzz Beamer from Sports Illustrated Kids hasn't given up on the "What if?" game yet. In the magazine's latest comic, Buzz ruminates over the possibilities of an over-sized Wii remote. He comes up with some entertaining ideas like Virtual Log Riding and Tossing the Caber. Our favorite is the one where he has a "realistic" wrestling match with the giant remote. That's way cooler than the Hulk Hogan pillow we used to grapple with when we were kids!

JoystiqWhopping Wii remote comic originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Mar 2007 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batteriesbatteryboblsedcomiccomicstripcontrollerlogrollingmagazineoversizedremoterodeosportsillustratedsportsillustratedkidswiiremotewrestlingMon, 19 Mar 2007 14:30:00 EST