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[Twitch app now broadcasting on Xbox 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/twitch-app-now-broadcasting-on-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/twitch-app-now-broadcasting-on-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/twitch-app-now-broadcasting-on-xbox-360/#comments
It's not enough just to play games anymore. Nowadays, you have to watch them too. That just got a little easier on the Xbox 360, thanks to a new Twitch.tv app. The streaming app is now available for Xbox Live Gold subscribers, offering "access to 300 of the most popular streams," including tournaments, all organized by game or popularity.

Twitch will host a special live broadcast with Xbox Live guru Major Nelson following next week's "Xbox Revealed" event on May 21. The broadcast will air on Twitch.tv and the Twitch app on Xbox 360, beginning at 3pm Eastern. The event itself, incidentally, starts at 1pm Eastern. Tune into Joystiq for lots of live coverage.

JoystiqTwitch app now broadcasting on Xbox 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 May 2013 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kinectmicrosofttwitchxboxxbox-livexbox-live-goldTue, 14 May 2013 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Xbox Live Gold free until April 22 in North America, Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/19/psa-xbox-live-gold-free-until-april-22-in-north-america-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/19/psa-xbox-live-gold-free-until-april-22-in-north-america-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/19/psa-xbox-live-gold-free-until-april-22-in-north-america-japan/#comments In days of yore, the world's greatest minds strived and strained to create gold from where there was none. Now, Microsoft is finally realizing the secrets of alchemy. Not only that, but it's sharing its riches with the world (well, parts of it) by making Xbox Live Gold free for all until Monday, April 22.

Xbox 360 owners in the US, Canada, Latin America, and Japan can access the Gold service for nada right now, with the temporary freedom granted until 1PM ET (10AM PT) on Monday.

JoystiqPSA: Xbox Live Gold free until April 22 in North America, Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Apr 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftxboxxbox-livexbox-live-goldFri, 19 Apr 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Redbox Instant, GameTrailers apps now on Xbox Live]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/redbox-instant-gametrailers-apps-now-on-xbox-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/redbox-instant-gametrailers-apps-now-on-xbox-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/redbox-instant-gametrailers-apps-now-on-xbox-live/#comments Redbox Instant, GameTrailers now on Xbox LiveRedbox's new "Redbox Instant by Verizon" video streaming service has moved out of beta and is now available to Xbox Live Gold subscribers. The app itself will require its own additional subscription for unlimited streaming, though purchasing and renting movies can be done regardless.

Two levels of Redbox Instant subscriptions are available: Four kiosk DVDs and unlimited streaming for $8 a month, or a Blu-ray version of the deal for $9 a month. A one-month free trial is available for anyone wishing to see how Redbox Instant's catalogue compares with its competitors.

Meanwhile, Xbox Live's other miscellaneous entertainment offerings have also expanded by way of a new GameTrailers app, which brings the video portal's various reviews, original programming and, well, trailers to the Xbox. This way, everyone with an Xbox 360 can enjoy staged interviews with purported burn victims.

JoystiqRedbox Instant, GameTrailers apps now on Xbox Live originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Mar 2013 03:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appappsgametrailersmicrosoftredboxredbox-instantrentalstreamingstreaming-videoxboxxbox-livexbox-live-goldWed, 20 Mar 2013 03:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Gold Family Pack leaves the Xbox Live nest]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/08/gold-family-pack-leaves-the-xbox-live-nest/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/08/gold-family-pack-leaves-the-xbox-live-nest/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/08/gold-family-pack-leaves-the-xbox-live-nest/#comments The Gold Family Pack has divorced from Xbox Live. Following a couple of tips indicating the pack had disappeared earlier this month, we reached out to Microsoft who confirmed the offer was removed from its service.

"The Family Gold offer is no longer available for purchase," a Microsoft representative told us. "The Family Center experience with settings management, allowance granting, child activity reports and family subscriptions management are still available for current Family Gold members at this time."

As for why the pack was discontinued, the rep said, "We continually evaluate our business focus and work to offer services that make the most sense for our customers and Xbox."

Microsoft introduced the Family Pack to Xbox Live back in November 2010, offering up a discounted $99.99 bundle of four year-long Gold memberships, along with Family Center functionality allowing users to manage family members' content and purchasing access.

JoystiqGold Family Pack leaves the Xbox Live nest originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Mar 2013 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftxboxxbox-livexbox-live-goldxbox-live-gold-family-packFri, 08 Mar 2013 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live Gold free to all in the UK March 8-10]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/xbox-live-gold-free-to-all-in-the-uk-march-8-10/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/xbox-live-gold-free-to-all-in-the-uk-march-8-10/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/xbox-live-gold-free-to-all-in-the-uk-march-8-10/#comments Xbox Live Gold free to all in the UK March 810Regular Xbox Live members in the UK can enjoy a free bump up to Gold status courtesy of BioShock Infinite. The free weekend kicks off on Friday, March 8, starting 12:00 GMT and lasting until 23:59 GMT on Sunday, March 10.

A variety of multiplayer events will go down throughout the weekend, starting with "Rockstar Friday" when developers from the New York outfit will be online and competing in games of GTA IV: Episodes from Liberty City, Max Payne 3, Red Dead Redemption and Midnight Club LA. Other multiplayer events for games such as Halo 4, Borderlands 2, Tomb Raider, FIFA Ultimate Team, Forza Horizon, Far Cry 3 and Assassin's Creed 3 will also take place.

A Microsoft representative has confirmed with Joystiq that this is for the UK only.

JoystiqXbox Live Gold free to all in the UK March 8-10 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Mar 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gold-subscriptiongreat-britainmicrosoftukxboxxbox-gold-unlockedxbox-livexbox-live-goldFri, 01 Mar 2013 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rhapsody app now available on Xbox 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/05/rhapsody-app-now-available-on-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/05/rhapsody-app-now-available-on-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/05/rhapsody-app-now-available-on-xbox-360/#comments Rhapsody app now available on Xbox 360People with expensive home theater set-ups and/or insane people who listen to music through television speakers now have yet another option when using their Xbox as a weird internet radio device. Specifically, subscription-based streaming music service Rhapsody has launched a new app, which is available now for anyone with Xbox Live Gold and a (paid) Rhapsody account.

The app includes access to Rhapsody's full music library, allowing users to access playlists they've constructed on other devices. It also supports gesture and voice commands via Kinect, which sounds good on paper, but we're going to withhold final judgement until we've tested whether our Girls' Generation choreography practice is falsely interpreted as interface navigation.

JoystiqRhapsody app now available on Xbox 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Dec 2012 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appkinectmicrosoftrhapsodystreaming-musicsubscriptionxboxxbox-live-goldWed, 05 Dec 2012 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free Xbox Live Gold this weekend for pretty much everyone except Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/29/free-xbox-live-gold-this-weekend-for-pretty-much-everyone-except/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/29/free-xbox-live-gold-this-weekend-for-pretty-much-everyone-except/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/29/free-xbox-live-gold-this-weekend-for-pretty-much-everyone-except/#comments Free Xbox Live Gold this weekend for pretty much everyone except Europe and the UKXbox owners somehow eeking out a meager existence without an Xbox Live Gold account will be given a peek at how the other side lives this weekend, when Gold features are opened up to everyone for a limited time.

The promotion runs from now through Sunday and includes access to services such as online multiplayer, Internet Explorer and the like. Apps that require outside subscriptions, like Netflix and Hulu Plus, will still require their associated ancillary subscriptions to function, but will otherwise be accessible.

The promotion is available for Xbox owners in "Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Hong Kong, India, Japan, Republic of Korea, Mexico, New Zealand, Singapore, Taiwan and the United States," according to Major Nelson. Sorry, Europe.

JoystiqFree Xbox Live Gold this weekend for pretty much everyone except Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Nov 2012 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>free-xbox-live-gold-weekendkinectmajor-nelsonmicrosoftweekendxboxxbox-livexbox-live-goldThu, 29 Nov 2012 19:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Paramount pulls back the curtain on its movie-streaming app for Xbox]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/12/paramount-movies-app-xbox-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/12/paramount-movies-app-xbox-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/12/paramount-movies-app-xbox-live/#comments Another app for streaming movies debuts on Xbox 360 today. The Paramount Movies app allows you to watch purchased and rented movies - both in standard and high-definition formats - from Paramount's website. Yes, before you can watch anything through the app, you'll need to go through the website and spend some money first. As usual, you'll also need a Gold subscription to Xbox Live.

JoystiqParamount pulls back the curtain on its movie-streaming app for Xbox originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Jun 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appgoldparamountparamount-moviesxbox-livexbox-live-goldTue, 12 Jun 2012 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: One year of Xbox Live Gold for $35 on AmazonLocal]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/09/psa-one-year-of-xbox-live-gold-for-35-on-amazonlocal/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/09/psa-one-year-of-xbox-live-gold-for-35-on-amazonlocal/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/09/psa-one-year-of-xbox-live-gold-for-35-on-amazonlocal/#comments AmazonLocal is offering a voucher for a one year subscription to Xbox Live Gold for $35. The deal is applicable in every supported location in the United States, one per customer. If you live in one of the 20 states that don't receive AmazonLocal deals (what's up, South Dakota?), the retail service won't mind if you lie to it and select a location that does.

So if you're a liar that loves Xbox Live subscription deals, get this one while it's hot as vouchers are in "limited quantities."

[Thanks, Jonathan!]

JoystiqPSA: One year of Xbox Live Gold for $35 on AmazonLocal originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 09 Jun 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonlocaldealspsaXbox-Livexbox-live-goldSat, 09 Jun 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Free Xbox Live Gold this weekend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/30/psa-free-xbox-live-gold-this-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/30/psa-free-xbox-live-gold-this-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/30/psa-free-xbox-live-gold-this-weekend/#comments ImageFor those among us that have no Xbox Live Gold subscription and would like to see how the other half lives, Microsoft will be temporarily granting Gold-level access to all internet-connected Xboxen this weekend, from Friday, June 1 through Sunday, June 3.

Amazon Instant Video, IGN, Manga and MUZU.TV apps will also be accessible, and while Amazon's prerequisite ancillary Amazon Prime subscription will be required to make use of its "free" streaming catalogue, users will still be able to use it to buy or rent movies/shows for Xbox-enabled viewing over the weekend.

[Image credit: Hto2008]

JoystiqPSA: Free Xbox Live Gold this weekend originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 May 2012 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>freePSAxbox-live-goldWed, 30 May 2012 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live Gold membership 40 percent off on Amazon, Newegg]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/xbox-live-gold-membership-40-percent-off-on-amazon-newegg/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/xbox-live-gold-membership-40-percent-off-on-amazon-newegg/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/xbox-live-gold-membership-40-percent-off-on-amazon-newegg/#comments One-year Xbox Live Gold memberships are $36 right now on Amazon, down 40 percent from the standard price of $60. Three-month subscriptions are 23 percent off, for $19.16 now as well.

Newegg is matching Amazon's deal on 12-month memberships, offering up to five per customer at $36 a pop. Not that you have to buy five but, really, if you're going to buy Gold today, it might as well be for half a decade at 40 percent off.

[Thanks, Ahmed.]

JoystiqXbox Live Gold membership 40 percent off on Amazon, Newegg originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazongoldkinectmicrosoftxboxXbox-Livexbox-live-goldTue, 21 Feb 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect 3 Xbox Live demo temporarily bumps Silver subs to Gold]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/mass-effect-3-xbox-live-demo-temporarily-bumps-silver-subs-to-go/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/mass-effect-3-xbox-live-demo-temporarily-bumps-silver-subs-to-go/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/mass-effect-3-xbox-live-demo-temporarily-bumps-silver-subs-to-go/#comments If you're a Silver subscriber on Xbox Live, downloading the Mass Effect 3 demo will allow you to cease being that one weirdo in your group who can't ever play with his friends online because he's a cheapskate. Well, in Mass Effect 3, anyway. Upon downloading the demo, all Silver members will be automatically bumped up to Gold level within the demo until Mass Effect 3 launches on March 6.

The demo will be available on February 14 not only for Xbox 360 users, but also PC and PS3. Players will get a taste of the multiplayer component and sample the Reaper attack on Earth that opens the game.

JoystiqMass Effect 3 Xbox Live demo temporarily bumps Silver subs to Gold originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowaredemoeamass-effect-3microsoftxboxxbox-livexbox-live-goldFri, 03 Feb 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[One year of Xbox Live Gold for $36 on Amazon]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/one-year-of-xbox-live-gold-for-36-on-amazon/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/one-year-of-xbox-live-gold-for-36-on-amazon/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/one-year-of-xbox-live-gold-for-36-on-amazon/#comments I love goooooooldLooking to save some scratch on an Xbox Live Gold subscription? Look no further than Amazon, which currently has 12 month cards for $36 ($24 off the usual price). These tend to sell out quickly, so act fast if you're in the market for more Live.

Continue reading One year of Xbox Live Gold for $36 on Amazon

JoystiqOne year of Xbox Live Gold for $36 on Amazon originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Jan 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftxboxxbox-livexbox-live-goldThu, 26 Jan 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Free Xbox Live Gold this weekend, help out with a Guinness world record attempt]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/21/free-xbox-live-gold-this-weekend-help-out-with-a-guinness-world/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/21/free-xbox-live-gold-this-weekend-help-out-with-a-guinness-world/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/21/free-xbox-live-gold-this-weekend-help-out-with-a-guinness-world/#comments Even if you've never joined the prodigious ranks of the Xbox Live Gold subscribers, or whether you've simply allowed your honorable title to fall by the wayside, you can get a temporary pass to the Gold Zone this weekend. From today through Monday, free users will find their status upgraded, giving them access to the online multiplayer functionality usually reserved for their premium counterparts.

Of course, there's no such thing as a free lunch -- Microsoft is asking that folks participating in the freekend help break an extremely specific Guinness world record using Kinect Sports: "The most people running a virtual 100m dash at one time." That ... that can't be a very large number to beat, can it? Regardless, if you'd like to participate (and grab a free Avatar shirt at the same time), check out the details on Rare's blog.

JoystiqFree Xbox Live Gold this weekend, help out with a Guinness world record attempt originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 21 Apr 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>guinnesskinectKinect-Sportsmicrosoftrarexboxxbox-livexbox-live-goldThu, 21 Apr 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft takes measure to counter alleged Indie Games ratings manipulation]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/19/microsoft-takes-measure-to-counter-alleged-indie-games-ratings-m/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/19/microsoft-takes-measure-to-counter-alleged-indie-games-ratings-m/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/19/microsoft-takes-measure-to-counter-alleged-indie-games-ratings-m/#comments Microsoft has disabled Xbox Live "Free" members' ability to rate Marketplace content on Xbox.com in an apparent effort to curb ratings manipulation. The announcement was made on the XNA Game Studio Team Blog and was specifically addressed to the Indie Games Community.

"By implementing this change, we believe our customers will experience more consistent ratings and a significantly reduced potential for abuse across the entire Xbox catalog," said the statement. "We have also investigated rolling back suspect votes, however, we determined it will not be possible to do this."

Several weeks ago, developers of some of the top-rated Indie Games suspected foul play when their games began to slide down the Top Rated listing after receiving, by one developer's count, "hundreds of 1 star ratings" in a single week. While the XNA Team conceded that it would be unable to take away such seemingly unwarranted ratings, it did add that "we are investigating users who may have violated their user agreement during this series of events."

"Violating user agreements may result in actions up to and including banning from Xbox Live, removal of currently posted games, and loss of ability to post games in the future," the statement continued.

A few Indie Games developers have expressed gratitude, as reported by Armless Octopus, for Microsoft listening to their concerns and taking action. (Historically, it's been a somewhat rocky relationship between the two sides.) While limiting rating powers on Xbox.com to paying Gold members would seem to thwart the most egregious attacks and manipulation of content, it does not solve some of the other issues with the system; most notably that a user need not play, let alone purchase, content to rate it.

JoystiqMicrosoft takes measure to counter alleged Indie Games ratings manipulation originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Apr 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftratingsxbligxboxxbox-livexbox-live-goldxbox-live-indie-gamesxna-game-studioTue, 19 Apr 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fable 3 and Xbox Live Gold sub discounted on Amazon]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/04/fable-3-and-xbox-live-gold-sub-discounted-on-amazon/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/04/fable-3-and-xbox-live-gold-sub-discounted-on-amazon/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/04/fable-3-and-xbox-live-gold-sub-discounted-on-amazon/#comments You know what you like? Saving money. You know what we like? Helping you save money. The stars have aligned today, as Amazon is offering one-year Xbox Live subscription cards for $40 (a $20 savings) -- but supplies are no doubt limited. Additionally, Fable 3 has been marked down to $28 for the day.

Continue reading Fable 3 and Xbox Live Gold sub discounted on Amazon

JoystiqFable 3 and Xbox Live Gold sub discounted on Amazon originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Mar 2011 11:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonFable-3microsoftxboxxbox-livexbox-live-goldFri, 04 Mar 2011 11:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Buy.com sale on 1 year of Xbox Live Gold [update: sale ended]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/01/buy-com-sale-on-1-year-of-xbox-live-gold/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/01/buy-com-sale-on-1-year-of-xbox-live-gold/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/01/buy-com-sale-on-1-year-of-xbox-live-gold/#comments Buy.com is offering a pretty substantial savings on Xbox Live Gold via its eBay outlet. The site currently has one-year subscription cards for $35 ($25 off the usual price) -- and supplies are no doubt limited.

Update: The sale is over.

Continue reading Buy.com sale on 1 year of Xbox Live Gold [update: sale ended]

JoystiqBuy.com sale on 1 year of Xbox Live Gold [update: sale ended] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Mar 2011 13:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftxboxxbox-livexbox-live-goldTue, 01 Mar 2011 13:50:00 EST<![CDATA[End-of-year deals and content for Xbox Live Marketplace]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/16/end-of-year-deals-and-content-for-xbox-live-marketplace/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/16/end-of-year-deals-and-content-for-xbox-live-marketplace/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/16/end-of-year-deals-and-content-for-xbox-live-marketplace/#comments The end of the year is quickly drawing upon us. While many are scrambling to grab those last-minute gifts for friends, loved ones and that guy you got for the office Secret Santa for whom you have no idea what to get (protip: give him an Xbox Live points card and steer 'em here), those who may have procrastinated a bit less than the rest of us can treat themselves with some Xbox Live goodies. Major Nelson posted up the deals and content set to arrive during the final third of this month, which you can see in full past the break.

Continue reading End-of-year deals and content for Xbox Live Marketplace

JoystiqEnd-of-year deals and content for Xbox Live Marketplace originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Dec 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-bad-company-2-vietnamForza-3Forza-Motorsport-3microsoftxblaxblmxboxXbox-LiveXbox-Live-Arcadexbox-live-deal-of-the-weekxbox-live-goldxbox-live-marketplaceThu, 16 Dec 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Walmart offers 12 months of Xbox Live and a (good) game for $81]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/15/walmart-xbox-live-gold-deal/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/15/walmart-xbox-live-gold-deal/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/15/walmart-xbox-live-gold-deal/#comments Walmart has a pretty spectacular deal going on for Xbox owners. The chain is currently offering one year of Xbox Live Gold and a select game for $79. SlickDeals notes that shipping is only $1.97. Don't fret about that "select game" business in the previous sentence either, as the eligible games are actually pretty good, including Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood, Call of Duty: Black Ops, Need For Speed: Hot Pursuit, Castlevania: Lords of Shadow and many, many others.

Considering a 12 month Xbox Live sub usually runs for $60 on its own, you might as well toss in a $20 game (that also usually runs for $60), right?

JoystiqWalmart offers 12 months of Xbox Live and a (good) game for $81 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Dec 2010 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>assassins-creed-brotherhoodcall-of-duty-black-opscastlevania-lords-of-shadowhalo-reachmicrosoftwalmartxboxxbox-livexbox-live-goldWed, 15 Dec 2010 16:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Target discounting one-year Xbox Live cards with CoD: Black Ops purchase]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/04/target-xbox-live-call-of-duty-black-ops/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/04/target-xbox-live-call-of-duty-black-ops/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/04/target-xbox-live-call-of-duty-black-ops/#comments Starting this Sunday (Nov. 7) and running through the following Saturday (Nov. 13), Call of Duty: Black Ops buyers at Target are being offered a little something extra with their game purchase: an Xbox Live one-year subscription card for half price. As sent over by some Target-employed tipsters, the forthcoming week's advertisement flyer reveals the Black Ops-branded Xbox Live cards to be just $30 when purchased alongside next week's big release.

Just think of all the things you can do with that extra $30! You could get, like, a whole bunch of really delicious frozen yogurt! Or you could use it towards Microsoft Points -- sure to be useful when DLC for Black Ops inevitably arrives with a $15 price point per map pack. The choice is yours!

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in!]

JoystiqTarget discounting one-year Xbox Live cards with CoD: Black Ops purchase originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Nov 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionCall-of-Duty-Black-Opsmicrosofttargettreyarchxblxboxxbox-livexbox-live-goldThu, 04 Nov 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Deal: Renew Xbox Live now, get some MS Points]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/01/deal-renew-xbox-live-now-get-some-ms-points/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/01/deal-renew-xbox-live-now-get-some-ms-points/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/01/deal-renew-xbox-live-now-get-some-ms-points/#comments Twitter user Prov_Sez tipped us off to a Dashboard deal offering 24 months of Xbox Live Gold for $84, complete with a 1600 MS Point kickback. However, our own sleuthing around on yielded an additional deal: one year of Xbox Live Gold for $45, with an additional 800 MS Points as incentive -- not too shabby!

Oh, and before you think you'll spend those Points during the Game Feast promotion, stop and check the fine print. It'll take six to eight weeks before you'll see 'em on your account.

JoystiqDeal: Renew Xbox Live now, get some MS Points originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftxboxxbox-livexbox-live-goldxbox-live-gold-membershipxbox-live-renewalFri, 01 Oct 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Year of Xbox Live Gold and free Halo Avatar item for $30]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/14/year-of-xbox-live-gold-and-free-halo-avatar-item-for-30/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/14/year-of-xbox-live-gold-and-free-halo-avatar-item-for-30/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/14/year-of-xbox-live-gold-and-free-halo-avatar-item-for-30/#comments You may have noticed the above advertisement on the Xbox 360 dashboard -- we've yet to encounter this ourselves, but we've been assured it's there. Engadget writer @rjcc first tipped us off on the deal, which adds a year to your Xbox Live Gold membership, along with the pictured Halo: Reach helmet above. Get 'em both for $29.99, because we all know Xbox Live won't be that cheap for long.

JoystiqYear of Xbox Live Gold and free Halo Avatar item for $30 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Sep 2010 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatar-marketplaceAvatarsBungieBungie-StudiosHalo-ReachmicrosoftMicrosoft-Game-Studiosxboxxbox-live-goldxbox-live-gold-membershipTue, 14 Sep 2010 17:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Pachter predicts $100 'Platinum' Xbox Live membership]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/pachter-predicts-100-platinum-xbox-live-membership/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/pachter-predicts-100-platinum-xbox-live-membership/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/pachter-predicts-100-platinum-xbox-live-membership/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The bump in cost for a Gold membership on Xbox Live is just the tip of the iceberg, according to game industry seer Michael Pachter. Predicting a $100 plan as the next evolutionary step in subscription options soon to be available to Xbox Live consumers, he told IndustryGamers reports that while the initial extra $10 "translates to around $100 to 150 million per year in additional revenue for Microsoft," the company will "reinvest at least this much in developing other new applications, and will roll out a premium service with $100 to 200 million worth of enhancements. If they can get 2 million users to switch from the $60 plan to the $100 plan, they'll make an extra $80 million a year, and can keep investing to try to grow that business."

It makes sense: Xbox Live is easily one of the biggest draws of the console and consumers have already shown they're willing to pay a premium for it. But even if Microsoft were to offer a "Platinum" service, what could justify what is comparably such a heftier price tag?

"For all I know, the Platinum plan might include virtual goods credits for various Microsoft games," Pachter posits. "If members could get specialized Halo armor or weapons worth the extra $40, they might be more willing to sign up, and it doesn't really cost Microsoft anything to offer things like that." You know what? We may know a few people willing to pay for something like that.

[Thanks, Mark]

JoystiqPachter predicts $100 'Platinum' Xbox Live membership originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gold-subscriptionmichael-pachtermicrosoftplatinumxboxxbox-livexbox-live-goldxbox-live-gold-membershipxbox-live-platinumxbox-live-platinum-membershipThu, 02 Sep 2010 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Discounted Xbox Live subscription cards available from Amazon, Newegg and others]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/30/discounted-xbox-live-subscription-cards-available-from-amazon-n/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/30/discounted-xbox-live-subscription-cards-available-from-amazon-n/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/30/discounted-xbox-live-subscription-cards-available-from-amazon-n/#comments Did the super-ultra recent Xbox Live Gold subscription price hike announcement fill you with an unbridled, quiet rage? A number of retailers are capitalizing on your frustration by cutting the price of the 12-month subscription card to $40 -- a full Andrew Jackson less than the price that will be adopted in November.

Microsoft is offering a similar, apologetic renewal on Xbox.com -- however, that deal's only applicable for a single year. Some retailers, such as Newegg, will let you order as many of these discounted subscription cards as you want, which you could redeem to extend your Xbox Live Gold subscription until the end of recorded time. That's a bit of a commitment, but think of how thrifty you'll feel!

JoystiqDiscounted Xbox Live subscription cards available from Amazon, Newegg and others originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 Aug 2010 12:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftretailsubscriptionxboxxbox-livexbox-live-goldMon, 30 Aug 2010 12:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live subscription prices to rise; $60 for 1 year beginning in Nov. [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/30/xbox-live-subscription-prices-to-rise-60-for-1-year-beginning/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/30/xbox-live-subscription-prices-to-rise-60-for-1-year-beginning/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/30/xbox-live-subscription-prices-to-rise-60-for-1-year-beginning/#commentsFiled under: , ,

As if to balance out the news of Nintendo's DSi price drops, Microsoft has announced via Major Nelson that the cost of an Xbox Live Gold membership will increase starting on November 1 in the US, Canada, Mexico and the UK.

In the US, a one-month Gold subscription will rise for $7.99 to $9.99; three months from $19.99 to $24.99; and a full year from $49.99 to $59.99. Check Major Nelson's post for price changes in other regions.

If you want to extend your Xbox Live membership without paying the new higher costs, you have two choices: 1) you could renew your subscription for one year through Xbox.com for for $40; or 2) load up on prepaid subscription cards, like, now!

Update: Microsoft has informed Joystiq that the $99 price will not change for the Xbox Live Family Plan, also launching this November. So that's suddenly a better deal.

JoystiqXbox Live subscription prices to rise; $60 for 1 year beginning in Nov. [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 Aug 2010 12:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftprice-hikepricingxboxxbox-livexbox-live-goldMon, 30 Aug 2010 12:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Hulu Plus on Xbox will be a 'custom experience', restricted to Xbox Live Gold members]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/29/hulu-plus-on-xbox-will-be-a-custom-experience-restricted-to-x/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/29/hulu-plus-on-xbox-will-be-a-custom-experience-restricted-to-x/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/29/hulu-plus-on-xbox-will-be-a-custom-experience-restricted-to-x/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Following Hulu's announcement of its new pay service, which will support devices like the PS3, Xbox 360, and iPhone, Microsoft filled us in on a bit of info about the Xbox version of Hulu Plus. Most importantly, Microsoft is continuing its ongoing quest to make Xbox Live Silver members feel deep shame, by making the Hulu Plus service on Xbox available only to those with an Xbox Live Gold account.

For the extra cash, though, Microsoft promises that this won't be a straight port. Instead, "Hulu Plus on Xbox 360 will take advantage of the social connectivity possible with our 25 million member Xbox Live community as well as the magic of Kinect for Xbox 360." So we'll break it down for you: While PS3 owners can enjoy Hulu Plus as early as next month, Xbox owners will have to wait until "early 2011" to get "controller-free navigation" with Kinect and Xbox Live Party support, so your Xbox Live friends can refuse your invitations to watch Quantum Leap together.

Full statement from Microsoft after the break.

Continue reading Hulu Plus on Xbox will be a 'custom experience', restricted to Xbox Live Gold members

JoystiqHulu Plus on Xbox will be a 'custom experience', restricted to Xbox Live Gold members originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 Jun 2010 15:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>HuluHulu-PlusmicrosoftxboxXbox-LiveXbox-Live-GoldTue, 29 Jun 2010 15:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Sale: Grab a year of Xbox Live Gold for $35]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/23/sale-grab-a-year-of-xbox-live-gold-for-35/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/23/sale-grab-a-year-of-xbox-live-gold-for-35/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/23/sale-grab-a-year-of-xbox-live-gold-for-35/#comments Buy.com is currently offering 12-month Xbox Live Gold cards for only $35 -- a substantial savings over the usual $50. Well, technically, it's only $34.44, so the deal is even better. There's a limit of three per customer, which adds up to three years of Live for just over 100 bucks. Not bad.

[Thanks, Richard!]

JoystiqSale: Grab a year of Xbox Live Gold for $35 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Jun 2010 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftxboxXbox-LiveXbox-Live-GoldWed, 23 Jun 2010 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ESPN on-demand joins Xbox in 'exclusive partnership,' free for Gold members]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/14/espn-on-demand-joins-xbox-in-exclusive-partnership-free-for-g/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/14/espn-on-demand-joins-xbox-in-exclusive-partnership-free-for-g/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/14/espn-on-demand-joins-xbox-in-exclusive-partnership-free-for-g/#commentsFiled under: , ,

In previous E3 conferences, Microsoft announced partnerships with Netflix, Last.fm, Facebook and Twitter as non-gaming enhancements to the Xbox Live "experience." This year, Xbox Live users can expect 3500 events live and on demand from ESPN in an "exclusive partnership." Content mentioned included NBA, MLB, college football, college basketball, soccer and Sports Center. However, there was no mention of NFL or NHL.

With Kinect, connected viewers are able to vote on which teams fans think can win. There will be stats and live tickers, and you'll be able to switch between games nearly instantaneously. Impressively, this service will be free for Xbox Live Gold members, undoubtedly making it one most valuable additions to the Live service.

JoystiqESPN on-demand joins Xbox in 'exclusive partnership,' free for Gold members originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Jun 2010 14:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2010espnmicrosoftstreamingxboxxbox-livexbox-live-goldMon, 14 Jun 2010 14:19:00 EST<![CDATA[12 months of Xbox Live for $35 from Newegg]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/04/12-months-of-xbox-live-for-35-from-newegg/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/04/12-months-of-xbox-live-for-35-from-newegg/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/04/12-months-of-xbox-live-for-35-from-newegg/#comments Who likes cheap Xbox Live Gold subscriptions? That's right, you do -- and Newegg has got you covered. Right now the tech seller has a full year of Xbox Live Gold up for only $34.99, a full $15 off the usual $50 price. That's almost three months of online gaming for free. You can't argue with that. Well, you could but you'd be a jerk, and there's no room for jerks on Xbox Live. Nope, none.

[Thanks, Brian]

Joystiq12 months of Xbox Live for $35 from Newegg originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 May 2010 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bargainsdealsneweggxbox-livexbox-live-goldTue, 04 May 2010 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Snag two years of Xbox Live for $60]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/16/snag-two-years-of-xbox-live-for-60/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/16/snag-two-years-of-xbox-live-for-60/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/16/snag-two-years-of-xbox-live-for-60/#comments No doubt you stumbled into this post thanks to the alluring aroma of savings, so let's get right to it: Dell is currently offering one heckuva deal on 12-month Xbox Live Gold subscription cards -- $30, plus $7 for shipping. "Hold on," you say, "the headline says two years for $60!"

Bear with us, okay? See, a clever Woot.com forum goer has pointed out that if you purchase two 12-month subscriptions, your order will qualify for free shipping. So there you go: Two whole years of Xbox Live for $60. Well, plus tax, but come on, that's a good deal.

[Thanks, Dave]

JoystiqSnag two years of Xbox Live for $60 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Apr 2010 11:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dealsmicrosoftxbox-livexbox-live-goldFri, 16 Apr 2010 11:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Modern Warfare 2 'Stimulus Package' early adopters rewarded with free week of XBL Gold]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/05/modern-warfare-2-stimulus-package-early-adopters-rewarded-with/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/05/modern-warfare-2-stimulus-package-early-adopters-rewarded-with/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/05/modern-warfare-2-stimulus-package-early-adopters-rewarded-with/#commentsIf you happened to buy the Modern Warfare 2 "Stimulus Package" map pack immediately upon launch, you got problems first, and maps later. To get over the complications caused by your attempted Mapathy treatment, Microsoft's Larry "Major Nelson" Hryb announced that day-one buyers of the map pack will receive a free week of Gold Xbox Live membership. "Check your Live messages," according to Major Nelson, for notice of the reward.

Even if every single person who ever bought the Stimulus Package already has a Gold membership, now you have it for a week longer! And for nothing but a minor inconvenience.

JoystiqModern Warfare 2 'Stimulus Package' early adopters rewarded with free week of XBL Gold originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Apr 2010 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisioninfinity-wardmajor-nelsonMicrosoftmodern-warfare-2stimulus-packageXbox-360xbox-livexbox-live-goldMon, 05 Apr 2010 18:40:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Xbox Live Gold free from April 1 to 5]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/01/psa-xbox-live-gold-free-from-april-1-to-5/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/01/psa-xbox-live-gold-free-from-april-1-to-5/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/01/psa-xbox-live-gold-free-from-april-1-to-5/#comments Stick rocking that Xbox Live Silver account but have an itch to play some online sessions of [insert flavor of the month online game here]? Just a friendly reminder that from April 1 (12PM ET) until April 5 (12PM ET) Xbox Live is free for everyone. That means you can finally participate in social media programs like Facebook and Twitter as well as video chat with all of your friends! (Because those are the real reasons Gold members pay for the service).

You could participate in online multiplayer sessions and create Xbox Live Parties to save your ears from the gutters of Xbox Live, but then you won't be Tweeting! The free weekend also means everyone has access to Microsoft's Xbox Live Deal of the Week program -- not to be confused with the "Inventory Blowout" promotion ending April 7, which is already available to Silver members. As you can see, the possibilities are endless! As long as those possibilities specifically include social media, talking to people on camera and playing games. Any other ideas you have are just greedy.

JoystiqPSA: Xbox Live Gold free from April 1 to 5 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 01 Apr 2010 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>free-weekendpromotionxbox-livexbox-live-goldThu, 01 Apr 2010 17:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live March schedule: Free Xbox Live Gold, XBLA sale]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/23/xbox-live-march-schedule-free-xbox-live-gold-xbla-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/23/xbox-live-march-schedule-free-xbox-live-gold-xbla-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/23/xbox-live-march-schedule-free-xbox-live-gold-xbla-sale/#comments Major Nelson has dropped a new Xbox Live Marketplace schedule for the remainder of March and beginning of April and, while we knew about most of the major releases already, there's still some surprises to be found. First, the next two weeks will see some nice Deal of the Week promotions, with Virtual On: Oratorio Tangram falling to 800 ($10) and Geometry Wars 2 dropping to a paltry 400 ($5).

Beyond that, Xbox Live Silver members will also be able to enjoy free Xbox Live Gold -- including online multiplayer, Netflix, last.fm, Facebook and Twitter -- from noon ET on April 1 through noon ET on April 5. And, as if all that wasn't enough, Major announced that ten Xbox Live Arcade games will go on sale from April 1 through April 7. The full list of games hasn't been announced, though it will include Super Street Fighter II Turbo HD Remix, South Park and Defense Grid. Check out the full Xbox Live schedule after the break.

Continue reading Xbox Live March schedule: Free Xbox Live Gold, XBLA sale

JoystiqXbox Live March schedule: Free Xbox Live Gold, XBLA sale originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Mar 2010 13:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deal-of-the-weekdefense-gridfacebookgames-on-demandlast.fmsouth-parksouth-park-lets-go-tower-defense-playsuper-street-fighter-2-turbo-hd-remixsuper-street-fighter-ii-turbo-hd-remixtwitterxbox-livexbox-live-arcadexbox-live-goldxbox-live-marketplacexbox-live-silverTue, 23 Mar 2010 13:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Dante's Inferno demo now available on XBLM]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/24/dantes-inferno-demo-now-available-on-xblm/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/24/dantes-inferno-demo-now-available-on-xblm/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/24/dantes-inferno-demo-now-available-on-xblm/#commentsFiled under:

Because nothing goes with the egg nog and sugar cookies as well as baby murder, right? As expected, the demo for Dante's Inferno has descended into the seventh level of the Xbox Live marketplace, which means that you Xbox Live Gold members can hack and slash your way past all of the buzz and see if the gameplay floats your ferry right across the River Styx.

The demo is 1GB in size, and while we didn't see it available on the console itself (though it should be there soon), you can follow this link on over to the Xbox website and queue up the download from there. Just don't come crying to us when Grandma's shocked after walking in and seeing what you're doing on the "gamebox." Make sure you know where the smelling salts are.

JoystiqDante's Inferno demo now available on XBLM originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 Dec 2009 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dantes-infernodemodownloadfreexbox-livexbox-live-goldxbox-live-marketplaceThu, 24 Dec 2009 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Free Xbox Live Gold promotions incoming]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/17/free-xbox-live-gold-promotions-incoming/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/17/free-xbox-live-gold-promotions-incoming/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/17/free-xbox-live-gold-promotions-incoming/#comments In celebration of the latest Dashboard Update, which introduced Twitter, Facebook and a number of other new features to the Xbox 360, Microsoft is hosting free Xbox Live Gold promotions through next week. Starting November 20 at 12:00pm ET and running until 12:00pm ET November 23, Xbox Live Gold will be free for all Silver members except those in Europe. Don't feel left out, European Silver members, as you'll be getting free Xbox Live Gold starting at 17:00 GMT, November 25, until 17:00 GMT, November 30.

During the free period, all Silver Live members will have access to the new features as well as Halo Waypoint, 1 vs 100, Netflix, Sky Player and, of course, online multiplayer. Keep in mind that not all features -- Sky Player, for example -- are available in all regions.

Now, to be serious for a moment, Twitter is neat and all, but the Modern Warfare 2 Spec Ops mode is where it's at. Be sure to use your free Xbox Live wisely.

JoystiqFree Xbox Live Gold promotions incoming originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 16:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dashboard-update-fall-2009microsoftxbox-livexbox-live-goldTue, 17 Nov 2009 16:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Dealio: Xbox Live 12-month card for $40]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/26/dealio-xbox-live-12-month-card-for-40/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/26/dealio-xbox-live-12-month-card-for-40/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/26/dealio-xbox-live-12-month-card-for-40/#comments
Xbox Live is the frosting inside the Xbox 360's Oreo cookie. Sure, the two chocolate wafers are delicious alone, but it's that sugary stuffing that makes it an Oreo. The only problem is that the frosting costs $50 annually -- so, it's nice to see that it's only $40 for a 12-month Xbox Live gold membership card on Amazon at the moment.

As far as we can tell, a similar deal is not available for the downloadable version of the card. If you're already a gold member, the subscriptions should accumulate. We're more than happy to save $10 on that renewal, 'cause Xbox 360's are just better stuffed with frosting -- wait, what?

[Thanks, Ganung]

JoystiqDealio: Xbox Live 12-month card for $40 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Oct 2009 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonmicrosoftxbox-livexbox-live-goldxbox-live-gold-membershipMon, 26 Oct 2009 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Demo for Cabela's Big Game Hunter 2010 stalks Xbox Live]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/09/demo-for-cabelas-big-game-hunter-2010-stalks-xbox-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/09/demo-for-cabelas-big-game-hunter-2010-stalks-xbox-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/09/demo-for-cabelas-big-game-hunter-2010-stalks-xbox-live/#comments
Xbox Live Gold subscribers in the US (sorry, Canadian hunters), load up your rifle and grab your favorite camouflage cap, because Major Nelson informs us a demo for Cabela's Big Game Hunter 2010 is now available for download. Weighing in at 391mb, the demo provides a taste of the retail disc's trophy game hunting across five continents.

And, just as the game's title would suggest, you won't be hunting quails or underpants gnomes, as this is big game we're talking about. Big game, mind you, and not the deadliest game of all. If you want to hunt Ice-T, you're going to have to get yourself some Netflix.

Add the Cabela's Big Game Hunter 2010 demo to your download queue

JoystiqDemo for Cabela's Big Game Hunter 2010 stalks Xbox Live originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Sep 2009 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cabelacabelascabelas-big-game-huntercabelas-big-game-hunter-2010demoxbox-livexbox-live-goldWed, 09 Sep 2009 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live's Twitter and Facebook free for Gold, for trial by Silver members]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/27/xbox-lives-twitter-and-facebook-free-for-gold-for-trial-by-sil/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/27/xbox-lives-twitter-and-facebook-free-for-gold-for-trial-by-sil/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/27/xbox-lives-twitter-and-facebook-free-for-gold-for-trial-by-sil/#comments Always read the fine print. Part of a footnote from this morning's Xbox 360 price cut press release bore this little oh-by-the-way: "Xbox Live Gold Membership will be required for Twitter and Facebook when they are available." When MCV followed up on the tucked-away tidbit, a Microsoft spokesperson suggested that the press release's statement was "inaccurate" and that the company was "still formulating its plans" for integrating the social networking services into Xbox Live. A few short hours later, those plans appear to be formulated.

A Microsoft representative has clarified for Joystiq, "Facebook and Twitter on Xbox Live will be free to Gold members, with a free trial period also available for Silver members." Specific details on what's included in the trial are not currently available, but clearly Microsoft is continuing its policy to reward Gold subscribers for, well, their subscriptions, despite what must be a tempting motivation to make Twitter and Facebook free-for-all features. Social networking's the killer app, after all (right?) -- and Microsoft could use some new ammo in the console war.

Gallery: Facebook / Twitter on Xbox 360

JoystiqXbox Live's Twitter and Facebook free for Gold, for trial by Silver members originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 27 Aug 2009 18:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dashboard-updatedashboard-update-fall-2009facebookgoldMicrosoftsilvertrialtwitterXbox-360xbox-livexbox-live-goldThu, 27 Aug 2009 18:10:00 EST<![CDATA[The more you know: How to turn off automatic Xbox Live renewal]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/30/the-more-you-know-how-to-turn-off-automatic-xbox-live-renewal/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/30/the-more-you-know-how-to-turn-off-automatic-xbox-live-renewal/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/30/the-more-you-know-how-to-turn-off-automatic-xbox-live-renewal/#comments
By default, Xbox Live is set to automatically renew Gold subscriptions when a user's current membership expires, but not everyone is down with a surprise credit card charge -- especially if they're rocking a parent's plastic. Thankfully, Xbox Live's Major Nelson has posted a quick guide to help users disable the automatic renewal process. The steps are simple:
  • Sign in to Xbox.com and go to the My Account section.
  • Click the Membership level link on the left.
  • You'll see a page that has your Membership level, and the end date. Under that, you'll see your "Automatic Renewal" status (as shown above).
  • If it reads ON, users can click the ON link and be brought to a page to turn the feature OFF.
  • If you'd like to change the setting to ON or OFF -- Click the link, make your selection, then click next.
  • You'll be returned to your Membership level page, where you can confirm your selection
That's it. Easy as warm apple pie -- now excuse us, we just got hungry.

[Thanks, Juan]

JoystiqThe more you know: How to turn off automatic Xbox Live renewal originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Jul 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auto-renewalmembershiprenewalxbox-dashboardxbox-livexbox-live-goldThu, 30 Jul 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft offering Silver members one month of Xbox Live Gold for $1]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/17/microsoft-offering-silver-members-one-month-of-xbl-gold-for-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/17/microsoft-offering-silver-members-one-month-of-xbl-gold-for-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/17/microsoft-offering-silver-members-one-month-of-xbl-gold-for-1/#comments
No, Xbox Live Silver members, that's not a massive typo you're seeing on the dashboard's Spotlight channel. Microsoft really is offering one month of Gold membership for $1 to US users. Of course, it's a "limited-time offer" -- and when that month's up, you'll be automatically charged for the next 11 months of membership (which you can opt out of). The last time MS offered a deal on Gold membership was back in March, where Silver users were offered one year of the good stuff for $39.99, $10 off the regular price.

[Thanks, Sam!]

JoystiqMicrosoft offering Silver members one month of Xbox Live Gold for $1 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Jun 2009 22:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dealsMicrosoftXbox-360xbox-livexbox-live-goldWed, 17 Jun 2009 22:45:00 EST