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[Report: No fee to play used Xbox One games, Skype powers voice chat]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/report-no-fee-to-play-used-xbox-one-games-skype-powers-voice-c/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/report-no-fee-to-play-used-xbox-one-games-skype-powers-voice-c/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/report-no-fee-to-play-used-xbox-one-games-skype-powers-voice-c/#commentsReport No fee to play used Xbox One games, voice chat powered by Skype Citing "sources familiar with the system," Polygon reports that the Xbox One will not require a fee to play used games. Instead, the console will perform regular online checks to verify disc authenticity and ownership.

Polygon's sources note that used game sales will continue, as Xbox One game ownership is determined by an on-disc encryption code. Once a game has been sold, traded, or otherwise activated by another console, access to the previous owner's installed content is revoked and transferred to its new owner.

Microsoft's Major Nelson addressed recent speculation regarding the upcoming console's ability to play used games in a statement released earlier today. "Xbox One is designed to support the trade in and resale of games," Major Nelson said. "Reports about our policies for trade in and resale are inaccurate and incomplete. We will disclose more information in the near future."

Polygon additionally reports that Xbox One voice chat and party chat will be powered by Skype, according to an unnamed Microsoft representative. Recent rumors suggest that Skype will also enable remote play sessions.

"Skype technologies are used in Xbox One which improves voice quality during multiplayer game sessions," Microsoft's representative wrote in a statement to Polygon. "Skype can also be used to call any of your Skype contacts for voice or video chat exclusively or while playing a game. Additionally, we have improved the Kinect hardware, from microphone configuration to dedicated audio processing, which contributes to providing a high-quality voice experience whether you are chatting in a game or through Skype."

JoystiqReport: No fee to play used Xbox One games, Skype powers voice chat originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 May 2013 20:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftskypeused-gamesxboxxbox-livexbox-onexbox-revealFri, 24 May 2013 20:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft: Xbox One cloud processing can enhance lighting, physics]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/report-xbox-one-performance-upped-by-cloud-processing/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/report-xbox-one-performance-upped-by-cloud-processing/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/report-xbox-one-performance-upped-by-cloud-processing/#commentsReport Xbox One performance upped by cloud processing Speaking with Redmond Game Studios and Platforms GM Matt Booty, Ars Technica reports that cloud computing will boost performance in games designed for Microsoft's Xbox One.

While latency-sensitive actions will be handled by a user's Xbox One console, Microsoft claims its cloud architecture can pre-calculate elements like lighting and physics modeling, leading to increased in-game performance.

This additional processing is made possible by the 300,000 servers that will power Xbox Live after the Xbox One's launch, up from the 15,000 servers currently supporting the service. Booty notes that "[for] every Xbox One available in your living room we'll have three of those devices in the cloud available."

Xbox One games that support the feature will remain operational in the event of an Internet connection outage, though developers will need to address the possibility of reduced performance. "In the event of a drop out [...] the game is going to have to intelligently handle that," Booty tells Ars Technica.

JoystiqMicrosoft: Xbox One cloud processing can enhance lighting, physics originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 May 2013 18:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cloudMatt-Bootymicrosoftxboxxbox-livexbox-onexbox-revealFri, 24 May 2013 18:10:00 EST<![CDATA[1 vs 100-style game shows possible on Xbox One]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/1-vs-100-style-game-shows-possible-on-xbox-one/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/1-vs-100-style-game-shows-possible-on-xbox-one/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/1-vs-100-style-game-shows-possible-on-xbox-one/#comments While no such thing is planned for the Xbox One launch window later this year, Microsoft Studios VP Phil Spencer isn't ruling out the possibility of video game shows like 1 vs 100 for the Xbox One.

Microsoft learned "a ton" from 1 vs 100 about bringing "hundreds of thousands of people together in a virtual game environment and have them play with each other and give away real prizes," Spencer told OXM. "I think that's a category that lends itself to our kind of community and interactivity," but he added no such thing would likely make launch. "We'll see how our timelines go."

1 vs 100 was a big hit with the Joystiq staff when it launched in 2010. 1 vs 100 was a weekly free game show played through Xbox Live at a specific time, where contestants could win real prizes. Microsoft pulled the plug in July of that year, though ex-host Chris Cashman was kind enough to produce a goodbye video of sorts.

Joystiq1 vs 100-style game shows possible on Xbox One originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1-vs-100game-showskinectmicrosoftphil-spencerxboxxbox-livexbox-onexbox-revealWed, 22 May 2013 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live video, music purchases will transfer to Xbox One]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/xbox-live-video-music-purchases-will-transfer-to-xbox-one/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/xbox-live-video-music-purchases-will-transfer-to-xbox-one/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/xbox-live-video-music-purchases-will-transfer-to-xbox-one/#commentsXbox Live video, music purchases will transfer to Xbox One Video and music purchased through the Xbox Live Marketplace will transfer to the Xbox One for storage and playback, Microsoft corporate vice president Phil Harrison confirmed to Polygon.

Harrison noted the cross-platform media compatibility when asked about the Xbox One's reported inability to play Xbox 360 discs and downloaded games. "Actually, to be clear music, movies, television will [transfer]," Harrison said. "All that comes across. Anything that you've acquired from Xbox Video or Xbox Music will move across."

Currently, Xbox Live Marketplace movie, television, and music purchases are playable across an individual user's Xbox 360, PC, and tablet and smartphone devices.

JoystiqXbox Live video, music purchases will transfer to Xbox One originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftxboxxbox-livexbox-live-marketplacexbox-onexbox-revealWed, 22 May 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft: No cross-platform play between Xbox One and Xbox 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/microsoft-no-cross-platform-play-between-xbox-one-and-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/microsoft-no-cross-platform-play-between-xbox-one-and-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/microsoft-no-cross-platform-play-between-xbox-one-and-xbox-360/#commentsMicrosoft No crossplatform play between Xbox One and Xbox 360 Don't expect any cross-platform play between Xbox 360 and Xbox One. That's what Microsoft Xbox UK marketing manager Harvey Eagle confirmed to Videogamer.

"Because of the different architecture of the systems it's not possible. Your Xbox Live account on 360 will carry over to Xbox One. That same account will work on both platforms. The multiplayer won't," Eagle told Videogamer. The Xbox 360 is built on PowerPC architecture, while the Xbox One utilizes an x86 chipset - so no purchased games will transfer to the new system.

The Xbox One was announced by Microsoft yesterday during its Redmond campus Xbox reveal event. The Xbox One is due to launch later this year. Xbox Live profiles and corresponding Achievements on Xbox 360 will carry over to Xbox One, which also bumps up the friends limit to 1,000.

JoystiqMicrosoft: No cross-platform play between Xbox One and Xbox 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cross-platform-playkinectmicrosoftpowerpcx86xboxxbox-360xbox-livexbox-onexbox-revealWed, 22 May 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox One: Everything from Microsoft's Xbox reveal event]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/xbox-one-everything-from-microsofts-xbox-reveal-event/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/xbox-one-everything-from-microsofts-xbox-reveal-event/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/xbox-one-everything-from-microsofts-xbox-reveal-event/#comments
Microsoft's Xbox reveal event went down today, where the company unveiled its next Xbox, called the Xbox One.

It's a cloud-based machine sporting an improved Kinect camera, along with a redesigned controller with a new d-pad and integrated battery compartment. The console itself has a Blu-ray drive, 500GB of internal storage and an eight-core x86 CPU paired with 8GB of system memory. In many ways, it's similar to the make-up of the PS4.

Gallery: Xbox One Console

Continue reading Xbox One: Everything from Microsoft's Xbox reveal event

JoystiqXbox One: Everything from Microsoft's Xbox reveal event originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 May 2013 17:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftrecapsmartglassxboxxbox-livexbox-onexbox-revealTue, 21 May 2013 17:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox One incorporates 'Smart Match' matchmaking, 'Living Game' tech]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/xbox-one-incorporates-smart-match-matchmaking-living-game-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/xbox-one-incorporates-smart-match-matchmaking-living-game-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/xbox-one-incorporates-smart-match-matchmaking-living-game-t/#comments Apart from its whiz-bang voice, motion and video capture features, the Xbox One also features some new tech under the hood to improve Xbox Live. In addition to a huge server boost and dynamic Achievements, the new Xbox Live will use a feature called Smart Match, which "uses advanced algorithms to pair players based on skill, language, and now reputation."

Microsoft hasn't provided further details, but it sounds like reputation is the biggest difference between Smart Match and TrueSkill, Xbox Live's current skill rating system. TrueSkill only takes player skill into account when creating matches.

Microsoft has also provided a little more info on the new persistent side of Xbox Live. Called "Living Games," the tech leverages cloud computing to create persistent worlds. The company adds that "your games stay in sync with the real world, which means the latest stats can be automatically fed into your sports games." Furthermore, "Advanced AI even allows your friends to play against your shadow when you're not available."

We're assuming Microsoft got the idea after a late night viewing of Michael Keaton's 1996 comedy smash, Multiplicity.

JoystiqXbox One incorporates 'Smart Match' matchmaking, 'Living Game' tech originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 May 2013 16:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>living-gamesmicrosoftsmart-matchxboxxbox-liveTue, 21 May 2013 16:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox One can update Achievements in response to player behavior]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/xbox-one-can-update-achievements-in-response-to-player-behavior/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/xbox-one-can-update-achievements-in-response-to-player-behavior/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/xbox-one-can-update-achievements-in-response-to-player-behavior/#comments The Xbox One's connection to the cloud can alter a game's Achievements in response to player behavior, Microsoft has revealed at its ongoing unveiling event in Redmond. Dan Greenawalt, Creative Director at Forza developer Turn 10 Studios, cited the "I took an arrow to the knee" meme as an example of how game makers might hinge their extrinsic rewards on post-launch reactions.

The meme began with The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim, in which droves of melancholic guards told the same story about an old injury.

To extrapolate from Greenawalt's comment, it seems Microsoft is keen to further distance itself from the idea of the game as a static disc. Xbox 360 games had their Achievement lists extended with significant title updates and downloadable expansions, but the Xbox One is expected to update the rewards list more fluidly. Game creators may use Achievements to encourage comical or topical behavior, or use them to educate players if they're missing certain features or secrets.

JoystiqXbox One can update Achievements in response to player behavior originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 May 2013 16:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementsclouddan-greenawaltkinectmicrosoftxboxxbox-livexbox-onexbox-revealTue, 21 May 2013 16:08:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live powered by server boost, cloud computing for Xbox One]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/xbox-live-powered-by-server-boost-cloud-computing-for-xbox-one/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/xbox-live-powered-by-server-boost-cloud-computing-for-xbox-one/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/xbox-live-powered-by-server-boost-cloud-computing-for-xbox-one/#commentsXbox Live powered by server boost, cloud computing for Xbox One
At its Xbox One reveal event today, Microsoft announced that it plans on having over 300,000 servers powering the console's expanded Xbox Live service.

The server bump represents a significant increase over the 15,000 servers that power Xbox Live currently. Player content will be saved via cloud storage, equipping players with a "dedicated game DVR" to capture live gameplay moments for future playback.

The Xbox One's overhauled Achievements system is "dynamic and changing," and boasts "more ways to earn, more frequent updates and the ability to share wins with friends." Video capture will play a role in the way players earn and display Achievements with the Xbox One. Hardcore Achievement hunters won't need to worry about their Gamerscores, either, as all Gamerscore points earned in Xbox 360 titles will carry over to the Xbox One.

Microsoft also revealed that the Xbox One's multiplayer matchmaking allows for "bigger matches with more players" and "living and persistent worlds." In addition, Xbox Live's asynchronous capabilities will allow players search for multiplayer matches while browsing the web, watching movies, or listening to music on the Xbox One.

JoystiqXbox Live powered by server boost, cloud computing for Xbox One originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 May 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftxboxxbox-livexbox-onexbox-revealTue, 21 May 2013 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Coming soon to XBLM: Gunslinger, CastleStorm, D3Publisher deals]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/coming-soon-to-xblm-gunslinger-castlestorm-d3publisher-deals/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/coming-soon-to-xblm-gunslinger-castlestorm-d3publisher-deals/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/coming-soon-to-xblm-gunslinger-castlestorm-d3publisher-deals/#comments
Major Nelson has posted the latest schedule for upcoming Xbox Live content. As previously announced, Call of Juarez: Gunslinger will be released this Wednesday. This week's Deal of the Week is a 50 percent off sale on lots of D3Publisher titles, including the new Karateka, the Puzzle Quest series, Pid and more. There's also an Alan Wake sale with games up to 83 percent off. Finally, Crysis 3 hits Games on Demand tomorrow.

Next week, Hunters Trophy 2 - Australia hits Xbox Live Arcade and, although not mentioned by Major Nelson, CastleStorm will arrive as well. Next week's deals include discounts on Ghost Recon: Future Soldier and its DLC, DarkStalkers Resurrection for $10. The Games on Demand version of Dark Souls will also be discounted, and it expansion, "Artorias of the Abyss" will be $7.50.

Continue reading Coming soon to XBLM: Gunslinger, CastleStorm, D3Publisher deals

JoystiqComing soon to XBLM: Gunslinger, CastleStorm, D3Publisher deals originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 May 2013 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>call-of-juarez-gunslingercastlestormmicrosoftxblmxboxxbox-livexbox-live-marketplaceMon, 20 May 2013 14:30:00 EST<![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[Machinima app, other wildly random entertainment on Xbox Live]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/machinima-app-other-wildly-random-entertainment-on-xbox-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/machinima-app-other-wildly-random-entertainment-on-xbox-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/machinima-app-other-wildly-random-entertainment-on-xbox-live/#commentsMachinima app, Gods of Rock awards come to Xbox Live Xbox Live is home to a new Machinima app, allowing you to view that website's content, like Mortal Kombat: Legacy and everything else, through your Xbox. Joining that app are three more entertainment options, which we'd categorize as "interestingly eclectic."

Tune into the Events Player on Thursday, and you'll be able to watch the Revolver Golden Gods Awards Show, which is apparently some kind of rock/metal show, and which has apparently been going on for five years. The show is SmartGlass-enhanced, allowing you to fill out polls, see backstage interviews, and "Check out the award nominees in categories like "'Best Drummer,' 'Comeback of the Year' and 'Most Metal Athlete.'"

Starting May 10, Xbox Video will host new episodes of The LeBrons, an animated series about LeBron James based on Nike commercials. And in the indefinite future, a OneBeat app will be released on Xbox with a calendar of events, ticket sales and more for electronic dance music. Eclectic!

JoystiqMachinima app, other wildly random entertainment on Xbox Live originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 May 2013 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>machinimamicrosoftonebeatrevolver-golden-gods-award-showthe-lebronsxboxxbox-liveWed, 01 May 2013 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live Gold free this weekend in UK]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/30/xbox-live-gold-free-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/30/xbox-live-gold-free-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/30/xbox-live-gold-free-weekend/#comments Xbox Live will hold a "Gold Unlocked Free Live Weekend" in the UK from noon on Friday, May 3, until 23:59 on Sunday, May 5. For those who aren't Xbox Live Gold members, it means all multiplayer functionality for games is available through the weekend.

If you're a Netflix subscriber, you'll also be able to access the service through your Xbox - and the same goes for LOVEFiLM. Offers running alongside the free Gold weekend include Double XP on Gears of War: Judgment, Assassin's Creed 3 and Far Cry 3.

Continue reading Xbox Live Gold free this weekend in UK

JoystiqXbox Live Gold free this weekend in UK originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 30 Apr 2013 01:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftukxboxxbox-liveTue, 30 Apr 2013 01:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live kicks off 'Big Sports Weekend' with free UFC, MLB]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/xbox-live-kicks-off-big-sports-weekend-with-free-ufc-mlb/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/xbox-live-kicks-off-big-sports-weekend-with-free-ufc-mlb/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/xbox-live-kicks-off-big-sports-weekend-with-free-ufc-mlb/#comments Xbox Live kicks off 'Big Sports Weekend' with free UFC, MLBXbox Live is hosting a "Big Sports Weekend" event for both Gold and free subscribers that unlocks some sports content at no extra cost. Among the noteworthy unlocked features this weekend are the ability to watch out-of-market and on-demand MLB games normally limited to MLB.TV subscribers, full NFL Draft coverage on the ESPN app and seven free fights on the UFC app.

The seven UFC "story fights" all feature either Chael Sonnen or Jon Jones leading up to their UFC 159 encounter this Saturday, which is not part of the Xbox Live Big Sports Weekend package, as it's a pay-per-view event. Viewers can also access the NBA Game Time and NHL GameCenter apps for playoff highlights and recaps this weekend, but will need the standard subscriptions to watch live playoff games.

JoystiqXbox Live kicks off 'Big Sports Weekend' with free UFC, MLB originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Apr 2013 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appbig-sports-weekendchael-sonnenespnjon-jonesmicrosoftnbanflnhlufcufc-159xboxXbox-LiveThu, 25 Apr 2013 12:30:00 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[XBLM deals: I Am Alive, Black Knight Sword, Hell Yeah!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/17/xblm-deals-i-am-alive-black-knight-sword-hell-yeah/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/17/xblm-deals-i-am-alive-black-knight-sword-hell-yeah/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/17/xblm-deals-i-am-alive-black-knight-sword-hell-yeah/#comments With all them next-gen doodads costing a pretty penny (albeit an unknown amount of pennies), we expect some of you are already on the scrimp. But you still need your gaming fix, so maybe you'll welcome this week's XBLA deals with open, rag-covered arms.

Ironically, the two Bionic Commando Rearmed games leap off the list initially; the first going for 320 MSP, the second for 480 MSP. Then we see that Grasshopper/Digital Reality collaboration Black Knight Sword is slashed in half to 400 MSP, while the savings cut even deeper for Hell Yeah! - it's down to 480 MSP from 1200 MSP, the exact same discount for Ubisoft's urban survivor I Am Alive.

There are also savings to be made on Gotham City Impostors, Warhammer 40K: Kill Team, Lara Croft: Guardian of Light, and stalwart of the XBLM deal circuit Geometry Wars: Retro Evolved 2. Of course, if you haven't yet bought the excellent Retro Evolved 2, then we will be forced to slap you. We're sorry, but them's the rules.

JoystiqXBLM deals: I Am Alive, Black Knight Sword, Hell Yeah! originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Apr 2013 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftXBLAXBLMxboxxbox-liveWed, 17 Apr 2013 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Xbox Live sign-in issues ongoing, Microsoft working on them [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/13/psa-xbox-live-sign-in-issues-ongoing-microsoft-working-on-it/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/13/psa-xbox-live-sign-in-issues-ongoing-microsoft-working-on-it/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/13/psa-xbox-live-sign-in-issues-ongoing-microsoft-working-on-it/#comments PSA Xbox Live sign in issues ongoing, Microsoft working on itFolks trying to sign into Xbox Live right now may encounter some issues, specifically that they, well, can't. Microsoft is aware of the situation, however, and is working to resolve it. No ETA has been given for a fix, so we recommend doing what we always do whenever there's some sort of ongoing service outage: Watch Girls' Generation videos on YouTube and wait for everything to blow over.

Update: Limited connectivity appears to have returned, although Microsoft warns that users may still encounter errors while managing their friends lists and/or while attempting to send text or voice messages over Xbox Live.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in!]

JoystiqPSA: Xbox Live sign-in issues ongoing, Microsoft working on them [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 13 Apr 2013 15:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kinectmicrosoftoutagePSAxboxXbox-LiveSat, 13 Apr 2013 15:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Huge XBLM sale slashes prices on Counter-Strike, Marvel vs Capcom, Lara Croft, more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/09/huge-xblm-sale-slashes-prices-on-counter-strike-marvel-vs-capco/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/09/huge-xblm-sale-slashes-prices-on-counter-strike-marvel-vs-capco/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/09/huge-xblm-sale-slashes-prices-on-counter-strike-marvel-vs-capco/#comments The Xbox Live Deal of the Week is dropping prices on lots of great games over the next two weeks. This week, games like Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, Dungeon Defenders, Prince of Persia Classic, Marvel vs. Capcom 2 and more are all 50 to 60 percent off. Next week, the same discount will be applied to Bionic Commando Rearmed, Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light, Hell Yeah and others. And, if you still don't have it for some reason, Geometry Wars 2 will be cut down to a measly $2.50.

Head over to Major Nelson to see all the available games and prices.

JoystiqHuge XBLM sale slashes prices on Counter-Strike, Marvel vs Capcom, Lara Croft, more originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Apr 2013 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftxblaxblmxboxxbox-liveTue, 09 Apr 2013 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Skyrim 1.9 update now on Xbox, later today on PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/08/skyrim-1-9-update-now-on-xbox-later-today-on-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/08/skyrim-1-9-update-now-on-xbox-later-today-on-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/08/skyrim-1-9-update-now-on-xbox-later-today-on-ps3/#comments Update 1.9 for Skyrim is now live on Xbox 360, with the PS3 patch expected to drop later today. Apart from numerous bug fixes, the update's hallmark features are the new Legendary difficulty setting and Legendary Skill system. In the new system, once a skill reaches level 100, it can be rolled back to level 15. As Bethesda points out in the patch notes, this technically removes the level cap from Skyrim.

The patch went live on PC last month.

JoystiqSkyrim 1.9 update now on Xbox, later today on PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Apr 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bethesda-Softworkselder-scrolls-5microsoftplaystationplaystation-networkps3psnskyrimthe-elder-scrolls-v-skyrimupdatexblxblxblmxboxxbox-livezenimaxzenimax-mediaMon, 08 Apr 2013 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Far Cry 3 Blood Dragon listed on XBLM for May 1, stars Michael Biehn]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/08/far-cry-3-blood-dragon-listed-on-xblm-for-may-1-stars-michael-b/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/08/far-cry-3-blood-dragon-listed-on-xblm-for-may-1-stars-michael-b/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/08/far-cry-3-blood-dragon-listed-on-xblm-for-may-1-stars-michael-b/#comments Far Cry 3 Blood Dragon listed on XBLM for May 1, features Michael BeihnNot only is Far Cry 3 Blood Dragon very real and very, very neon, it also could be here in just over three weeks. The 80s-inspired Far Cry 3 spin-off emerged on the Xbox Live Marketplace this weekend, where its release date is listed as May 1. The listing confirms Blood Dragon as a standalone shooter which won't require a copy of Far Cry 3, likely only to be single-player given its online features are restricted to "leaderboards."

More important than that, or the confirmation of previously leaked screenshots (see the gallery below), is that Blood Dragon features the radness of Michael Biehn, he of Kyle Reese in Terminator and Corporal Hicks in Aliens fame. Biehn's starring role is just a part of the "80s VHS vision of the future" that is Blood Dragon, according to the XBLM listing.

It reads in full:
Far Cry 3 Blood Dragon is THE Kick-Ass Cyber Shooter taking place on a bizarre open-world island crawling with evil. Welcome to an 80's VHS vision of the future. The year is 2007 and you are Sargent Rex Colt, a Mark IV Cyber Commando who's fighting against a cyborg army gone rogue. Your mission: get the girl, kill the baddies, and save the world. Experience every cliché of a VHS era vision of a nuclear future, where cyborgs, blood dragons, mutants, and Michael Biehn (Terminator, Aliens, Navy Seals) collide. Playing Far Cry 3 Blood Dragon doesn't require a copy of Far Cry 3.
Quite how Blood Dragon ties in to Far Cry 3 beyond the island remains to be seen.

We've reached out to Ubisoft for more info. While details are so far restricted to XBLA, Brazilian classification ratings point towards releases on PS3 and PC as well.

Gallery: Far Cry 3 Blood Dragon

JoystiqFar Cry 3 Blood Dragon listed on XBLM for May 1, stars Michael Biehn originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Apr 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>far-cry-3far-cry-3-blood-dragonmicrosoftubisoftXBLAXBLMxboxxbox-liveMon, 08 Apr 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Battleblock Theater review: Bring some friends and beat 'em up]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/05/battleblock-theater-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/05/battleblock-theater-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/05/battleblock-theater-review/#comments Every week, a group of friends and I get together to watch the television show, The Walking Dead. By "watch" I mean we make fun of the terrible acting and bemoan the missing parts that made the comic so good. It's a joyful, heartfelt tradition that we look forward to each week, and not much distracts us from this routine. Except, of course, a really good excuse to beat each other up.

This week we started our screen session with a local co-op round of The Behemoth's Battleblock Theater in Arena mode. Arena mode features a handful of four-player mini-games, all of which are co-op, two-on-two or every man for himself. We started with "Ball Game." After two hours of passing the controllers, running through various levels, rolling in laughter and punching each other whenever a sweet move went awry, someone suggested we start up The Walking Dead. The response was immediate.

"No way. We're playing this." And so we did, all night long.

Gallery: BattleBlock Theater (4/5/13)

CampaignCampaignCampaignArena ModeArena Mode

Continue reading Battleblock Theater review: Bring some friends and beat 'em up

JoystiqBattleblock Theater review: Bring some friends and beat 'em up originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 05 Apr 2013 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battleblock-theatermicrosoftthe-behemothxblaxboxxbox-livexbox-live-arcadeFri, 05 Apr 2013 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Minecraft XBLA Title Update 9 out a day early, which is today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/04/minecraft-xbla-title-update-9-out-a-day-early-which-is-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/04/minecraft-xbla-title-update-9-out-a-day-early-which-is-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/04/minecraft-xbla-title-update-9-out-a-day-early-which-is-today/#comments Minecrafters waiting for 'The End' are in for a treat, as 4J Studios says Title Update 9 is rolling out for the XBLA game "right now." It was expected tomorrow, but the early release means, we suspect, more than a few people's weekends are going to start a day early.

The End, complete with Ender Dragon, isn't the only inclusion in TU9; you can check out the update's change log on the official Minecraft forums.

JoystiqMinecraft XBLA Title Update 9 out a day early, which is today originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Apr 2013 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4j-studiosmicrosoftMinecraftmojangrelease-datetitle-update-9XBLAxboxxbox-liveThu, 04 Apr 2013 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live Rewards introduces monthly Play to Earn incentives]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/01/xbox-live-rewards-introduces-monthly-play-to-earn-incentives/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/01/xbox-live-rewards-introduces-monthly-play-to-earn-incentives/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/01/xbox-live-rewards-introduces-monthly-play-to-earn-incentives/#comments
Starting this month, the Xbox Live Rewards program is getting a little more active with Play to Earn incentives. As the name implies, Play to Earn allows Xbox Live Rewards members to earn extra rewards by purchasing and playing games. The month of April is dedicated to Xbox Live Arcade, and several rewards are up for grabs. As you might expect, the best ones require you to pony up a little dough.

Playing 20 hours of XBLA games this month will net Rewards members a free Avatar item, while purchasing four XBLA games costing at least 400 MS Points each will earn a free month of Xbox Live Gold. Finally, members who spend 3200 MS Points on XBLA games will receive 800 MS Points back.

That applies to any XBLA games, though Major Nelson conveniently notes that there are quite a few games coming out this month, including Battleblock Theater, Terraria, Monaco, Double Dragon 2, God Mode, Sacred Citadel and Motocross Madness.

JoystiqXbox Live Rewards introduces monthly Play to Earn incentives originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 01 Apr 2013 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftmonacoplay-to-earnxboxxbox-livexbox-live-rewardsMon, 01 Apr 2013 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live's April 1 DLC sale includes Fallout 3, AC3, BF3, Dishonored]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/31/xbox-lives-april-1-dlc-sale-includes-fallout-3-ac3-bf3-disho/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/31/xbox-lives-april-1-dlc-sale-includes-fallout-3-ac3-bf3-disho/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/31/xbox-lives-april-1-dlc-sale-includes-fallout-3-ac3-bf3-disho/#comments Xbox Live's April 1 DLC salesAlthough some may consider this a joke, Xbox Live will hold a downloadable content sale for April Fools' Day. The discounts on recent games include the Assassin's Creed 3 Season Pass for $20 (33 percent off). There's also the Battlefield 3 Aftermath DLC for $7.50 (50 percent off).

For those who never picked up any of the DLC for Fallout 3, each of the game's five pieces of additional content are 75 percent off for $2.50 apiece. If you must select only a couple, "Broken Steel" and "Point Lookout" are the way to go. We feel obligated to note that Fallout 3: Game of the Year Edition, which includes the full game plus all the DLC, retails for $20.

The sale does not start until tomorrow, April 1, but head on over to Major Nelson for details on some other discounts.

JoystiqXbox Live's April 1 DLC sale includes Fallout 3, AC3, BF3, Dishonored originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 31 Mar 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>assassins-creed-3battlefield-3dishonoredfallout-3microsoftxboxxbox-liveSun, 31 Mar 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Twisted Pixel bundle includes studio's XBLA library, coming 'soon' to Live]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/twisted-pixel-bundle-includes-studios-xbla-library-coming-soo/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/twisted-pixel-bundle-includes-studios-xbla-library-coming-soo/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/twisted-pixel-bundle-includes-studios-xbla-library-coming-soo/#comments Twisted Pixel bundle includes studio's XBLA library, coming 'soon' to LiveTwisted Pixel is packaging all of its XBLA games into one 'Twisted Bundle,' which is making its way onto Xbox Live "soon." We're waiting for the four-in-one compilation, which includes The Maw, 'Splosion Man, Ms. Splosion Man, and Comic Jumper to twist on a price and date.

JoystiqTwisted Pixel bundle includes studio's XBLA library, coming 'soon' to Live originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Mar 2013 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comic-jumpermicrosoftms-splosion-mansplosion-manthe-mawtwisted-pixelXBLAXBLMxboxxbox-liveThu, 28 Mar 2013 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Terraria digs in on PSN March 26, Xbox Live March 27]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/22/terraria-digs-in-on-psn-march-26-xbox-live-march-27/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/22/terraria-digs-in-on-psn-march-26-xbox-live-march-27/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/22/terraria-digs-in-on-psn-march-26-xbox-live-march-27/#comments Terraria will meet its projected console launch window, with PSN and Xbox Live downloads available in North America on March 26 and March 27, respectively. Terraria is priced at 1200 MS Points ($15).

Re-Logic's indie action-adventurer was first released on the PC in 2011, and now comes to consoles packing new content. Last we heard, Terraria had sold 1.6 million copies on PC.

Continue reading Terraria digs in on PSN March 26, Xbox Live March 27

JoystiqTerraria digs in on PSN March 26, Xbox Live March 27 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Mar 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>505-gamesmicrosoftplaystationps3psnre-logicrelease-dateterrariaxblaxboxxbox-liveFri, 22 Mar 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Games on Demand manager explains why it lags on day-and-date launches]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/22/xbox-games-on-demand-manager-explains-why-it-lags-on-day-and-dat/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/22/xbox-games-on-demand-manager-explains-why-it-lags-on-day-and-dat/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/22/xbox-games-on-demand-manager-explains-why-it-lags-on-day-and-dat/#comments Effects of new distribution channels in gaming business modelsXbox Games on Demand Senior Business Manager Erik Yeager noted concern with console sales as the reason the 360 doesn't sell games via Xbox Live on launch day. Microsoft's Games on Demand has been noticeably lagging behind Sony, Nintendo - and, yes, PCs in general - on digitally distributed titles launching day-and-date alongside retail releases.

"We have a lot of strong partnerships with retailers," said Yeager at yesterday's MIT Business in Games conference. "We really need them to do a lot for us. They're the ones out there selling the consoles, selling the peripherals and, in this time, we're trying to figure out how to fit that in to the whole digital landscape shift. We're just taking a bit of a measured pace with it."

Microsoft's Xbox 360 has been the top selling console in the United States for the past 26 months. Asked if the company would have moved faster on day-and-date if that weren't the case, Yeager responded, "I probably can't comment on that one."

He continued, "We really strongly believe it's important to have these retail partnerships and the ability to sell our console is the most critical thing for us. If you don't sell the console, you can't sell anything else."

Yeager pointed out that Games on Demand titles have gradually decreased their lag time between retail and digital distribution on the service. Sony's PlayStation 4 has already outlined a heavy digital distribution strategy. Microsoft is expected to announce the plans for its upcoming console in the coming months.

JoystiqXbox Games on Demand manager explains why it lags on day-and-date launches originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Mar 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>erik-yeagergames-on-demandmicrosoftMITBiGxboxxbox-liveFri, 22 Mar 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA['High profile' Microsoft employees' XBL accounts hacked through social engineering]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/high-profile-microsoft-employees-xbl-accounts-hacked-through/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/high-profile-microsoft-employees-xbl-accounts-hacked-through/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/high-profile-microsoft-employees-xbl-accounts-hacked-through/#comments 'High profile' Microsoft employees' XBL accounts hacked through social engineeringCertain unnamed Microsoft employees have been targeted by Xbox Live hackers, The Verge reports. The exact methodology is unclear (for good reason!) but it involves obtaining the targets' Social Security numbers - which are not used by Xbox Live - and using that information to get information out of another company, which is then used to gain access to the XBL account.

"We are actively working with law enforcement and other affected companies to disable this current method of attack and prevent its further use," a Microsoft rep told The Verge. "Security is of critical importance to us and we are working every day to bring new forms of protection to our members." Especially the members who work there.

Xbox Live hacking of employees is not a new phenomenon. Former XBL director of policy and enforcement Stephen Toulouse found his account hacked in 2011, followed by a number of insulting calls and voicemails from the hacker.
[Image: David Evison via Shutterstock]

Joystiq'High profile' Microsoft employees' XBL accounts hacked through social engineering originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Mar 2013 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hackhackingmicrosoftsocial-engineeringxboxxbox-liveWed, 20 Mar 2013 10:30:00 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[Halo 4 lowers drawbridge for Castle Map Pack on April 8]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/halo-4-lowers-drawbridge-for-castle-map-pack-on-april-8/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/halo-4-lowers-drawbridge-for-castle-map-pack-on-april-8/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/halo-4-lowers-drawbridge-for-castle-map-pack-on-april-8/#comments
Halo 4 is getting yet another batch of DLC next month. Entitled the Castle Map Pack, the content adds three new multiplayer maps: Daybreak, Outcast and Perdition. The new maps are designed around objective gametypes and vehicle use, with Outcast in particular promising "frequent Mantis vs. Wraith battles."

The DLC will be available for $10 staring April 8. A new 6-on-6 playlist catering to the DLC will launch on the same day. The Castle Map Pack also marks the third and final pack included with the War Games Map Pass.

Gallery: Halo 4 (Castle Map Pack)

Continue reading Halo 4 lowers drawbridge for Castle Map Pack on April 8

JoystiqHalo 4 lowers drawbridge for Castle Map Pack on April 8 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Mar 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-Industriescertain-affinitydlchalo-4microsoftrelease-datexboxxbox-liveMon, 11 Mar 2013 14:00:00 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[Dead Space 3 'Awakened' DLC confirmed for March 12]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/08/dead-space-3-awakened-dlc-confirmed-for-march-12/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/08/dead-space-3-awakened-dlc-confirmed-for-march-12/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/08/dead-space-3-awakened-dlc-confirmed-for-march-12/#comments Dead Space 3 Awakened DLC confirmed for March 12EA reveals Dead Space 3 wakes up to its first DLC expansion on March 12, and it's coming to Xbox 360, PlayStaton 3, and PC for $10/800 MSP. As Visceral Games' Shereif Fattouh told us in our preview, 'Awakened' serves as a continuation of the game's story, providing "the real epilogue of some of the events that took place."

JoystiqDead Space 3 'Awakened' DLC confirmed for March 12 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Mar 2013 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>awakeneddead-space-3DLCEAmicrosoftoriginpcplaystationps3PSNrelease-datevisceral-gamesXBLMxboxxbox-liveFri, 08 Mar 2013 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tell a friend: Army of Two: The Devil's Cartel co-op demo March 12]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/tell-a-friend-army-of-two-the-devils-cartel-co-op-demo-march/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/tell-a-friend-army-of-two-the-devils-cartel-co-op-demo-march/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/tell-a-friend-army-of-two-the-devils-cartel-co-op-demo-march/#comments
You and a friend can step into the shoes of Alpha and Bravo next week, in advance of the March 26 release of Army of Two: The Devil's Cartel. EA will release a downloadable demo on Xbox Live and PlayStation Network "starting March 12" (which means you should expect the XBL demo on March 13).

In the demo, two players will "embark on a mission to rescue a kidnapped politician while diffusing an additional hostage situation." We're assuming the two masked gunmen handle the situation with their advanced psychological training and diplomacy.

Oh, and because we can't have a post about Army of Two without using it: "bros."

Continue reading Tell a friend: Army of Two: The Devil's Cartel co-op demo March 12

JoystiqTell a friend: Army of Two: The Devil's Cartel co-op demo March 12 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Mar 2013 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>army-of-two-the-devils-carteldemomicrosoftplaystationps3psnxboxxbox-liveWed, 06 Mar 2013 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Zeno Clash 2 slugs plenty of skulls in this gameplay trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/zeno-clash-2-slugs-plenty-of-skulls-in-this-gameplay-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/zeno-clash-2-slugs-plenty-of-skulls-in-this-gameplay-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/zeno-clash-2-slugs-plenty-of-skulls-in-this-gameplay-trailer/#comments
This trailer, which features PC beta footage, shows the sequel to Zeno Clash is sticking hard and true (and painful-looking) to its first-person brawler roots. It also marks the opening of the game's new website. The game itself pummels Xbox Live, PSN, and Steam this spring.

JoystiqZeno Clash 2 slugs plenty of skulls in this gameplay trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Mar 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftpcplaystationps3PSNsteamXBLAXBLMxboxxbox-livezeno-clash-2Wed, 06 Mar 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sega fighters tussle it out in this week's XBLA deals]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/sega-fighters-tussle-it-out-in-this-weeks-xbla-deals/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/sega-fighters-tussle-it-out-in-this-weeks-xbla-deals/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/sega-fighters-tussle-it-out-in-this-weeks-xbla-deals/#comments This week's wave of Gold-exclusive Xbox Live Arcade deals rustles up four Sega fighters, including the AM2 trio re-released a few months back. Sonic the Fighters, Fighting Vipers, and Virtua Fighter 2 are knocked down from 400 MSP to 160 MSP each, while Virtua Fighter 5: Final Showdown is a steal at 400 MSP, just a third of its regular price.

If you're after something a bit less punchy, why not book a half-price ticket to Nightopia - NiGHTS into Dreams is down to 400 MSP. There are two more 50 percenters to finish us off: the Karateka remake kicks in at 400 MSP, while JoJo's Bizarre Adventure HD is at 800 MSP.

JoystiqSega fighters tussle it out in this week's XBLA deals originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Mar 2013 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftXBLAXBLMxboxxbox-liveWed, 06 Mar 2013 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Serious Sam 3 and DLC prices permanently reduced on XBLA]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/serious-sam-3-and-dlc-prices-permanently-reduced-on-xbla/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/serious-sam-3-and-dlc-prices-permanently-reduced-on-xbla/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/serious-sam-3-and-dlc-prices-permanently-reduced-on-xbla/#comments Serious Sam 3 BFE and DLC receive permanent XBLA price reductionSerious Sam 3's Xbox Live Arcade port has received a permanent price reduction, down from 1200 MS Points ($15) to 800 MS Points ($10), a savings of $5. The Jewel of the Nile DLC has also been reduced to the same price.

Serious Sam 3 originally launched on the PC in late 2011, a game our own Ludwig Kietzmann says "is like a dam filled with cookies." Last year, Serious Sam 3 was ported to Mac and Linux before its Xbox Live Arcade debut in October.

JoystiqSerious Sam 3 and DLC prices permanently reduced on XBLA originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Mar 2013 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>croteamdevolver-digitalmicrosoftserious-sam-3serious-sam-3-bfexblaxboxxbox-livexbox-live-arcadeMon, 04 Mar 2013 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Fighting games, Metal Gear come to Xbox Live's Ultimate Game Sale]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/fighting-games-metal-gear-come-to-xbox-lives-ultimate-game-sal/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/fighting-games-metal-gear-come-to-xbox-lives-ultimate-game-sal/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/fighting-games-metal-gear-come-to-xbox-lives-ultimate-game-sal/#comments Today's final round of Games on Demand deals is a double-whammy, as yesterday's sale has been given an additional 24 hours after some issues caused it to start late.

So Day 6, the late-starter, brings discounts to an assortment of games, including... Metal Gear...?! Yup, Metal Gear, namely Metal Gear Solid HD Collection (MGS2 and MGS3) and MGS: Peace Walker HD, down to $9.99 each. Other Day 6-ers at $9.99 include Batman: Arkham Asylum, Left 4 Dead 2, The Orange Box, and Sid Meier's Civ Rev, while Max Payne 3 tumbles to $14.99 and the magnificent Fallout 3 is just $4.99.

Day 7, meanwhile, offers up an affordable flurry of fighters. Street Fighter and Tekken fans can pick up discounts on Street Fighter 4, SSF4 Arcade, and Tekken 6 at $9.99 each, and Tekken Tag Tournament 2 at $19.99. If they want to get their crossover on they can pick up Street Fighter X Tekken, which gets a beatdown to $19.99. Talking of crossovers, Mortal Kombat vs. DC Universe is slashed to $4.99, while 2011's Mortal Kombat is at $19.99. Lastly, The King of Fighters series also gets a look-in with KoF 13 priced at $9.99 today.

Finally, today is the last scheduled day of Xbox Live's Ultimate Game Sale, meaning it's your last chance to pick up the Games on Demand that have been discounted across the week.

JoystiqFighting games, Metal Gear come to Xbox Live's Ultimate Game Sale originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Mar 2013 08:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>games-on-demandmicrosoftXBLMxboxxbox-liveMon, 04 Mar 2013 08:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Borderlands takes over Xbox Live Ultimate Game Sale]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/02/borderlands-takes-over-xbox-live-ultimate-game-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/02/borderlands-takes-over-xbox-live-ultimate-game-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/02/borderlands-takes-over-xbox-live-ultimate-game-sale/#comments The lineup for day five of the Xbox Live Games on Demand sale is a star-studded one, as nine games are at least half-off for today only. Highlighting today's deals are Borderlands and Borderlands 2, available for $9.99 and $29.99, respectively.

Other games in today's deal include Fable 3, Dead Island and Fallout: New Vegas for $9.99 each. Batman: Arkham City, Portal 2 and Red Dead Redemption can be downloaded for $14.99 each, while Dishonored rounds out the group at $29.99.

The Ultimate Game Sale ends March 4, and while these games are on sale for today only, there's still a sizable list of games at low prices for the length of the promotion.

JoystiqBorderlands takes over Xbox Live Ultimate Game Sale originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 02 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batman-arkham-cityborderlandsborderlands-2dead-islanddishonoredfable-3fallout-new-vegasgames-on-demandmicrosoftportal-2red-dead-redemptionsalesxboxXbox-LiveSat, 02 Mar 2013 12:00:00 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[Call of Duty series blitzes Xbox Live's Ultimate Game Sale]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/call-of-duty-series-blitzes-xbox-lives-ultimate-game-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/call-of-duty-series-blitzes-xbox-lives-ultimate-game-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/call-of-duty-series-blitzes-xbox-lives-ultimate-game-sale/#comments The entire Call of Duty Xbox 360 line-up launches a charge of concessions in today's Games on Demand sale - well, almost. The very first CoD is MIA, mainly because it's on XBLA and not GoD, which seems like reason enough for draft evasion to us.

Calls of Duties 2 and 3, Modern Warfares 1 and 2, and World at War are all down to $9.99, while Black Ops makes a 60 percent drop to $19.99. 2011's Modern Warfare 3 comes in at $29.99, and last of all is Black Ops 2 with $10 off at $49.99.

And don't forget, a heap of other Games on Demand are staying discounted until March 4, each one priced at $4.99 or less.

JoystiqCall of Duty series blitzes Xbox Live's Ultimate Game Sale originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Mar 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisioncall-of-dutygames-on-demandmicrosoftXBLMxboxxbox-liveFri, 01 Mar 2013 08:00:00 EST