Joystiq Xbox http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq Xbox 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[Microsoft wants to sell another 25 million Xbox 360 consoles]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/25/microsoft-wants-to-sell-another-25-million-xbox-360-consoles/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/25/microsoft-wants-to-sell-another-25-million-xbox-360-consoles/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/25/microsoft-wants-to-sell-another-25-million-xbox-360-consoles/#commentsMicrosoft wants to sell another 25 million Xbox 360 consoles Despite all this Xbox One whoopla going on, Microsoft hasn't forgotten about its other horse in this console dog and pony show. In fact, the company hopes to continue to move substantial numbers of the Xbox 360 over the next five years, according to senior vice president of Interactive Entertainment Yusuf Mehdi.

"We believe over the next five years we can break a 100 million unit installed base," Medhi said during an interview with OXM. "That's something we're shooting for, it's not a financial plan as such, it's just rough numbers if you will. To sell another 25 million, half of those will probably come from replacements, but half will come from new buyers."

"The way we'll break into those segments," he continued, "is by hitting new price points, getting new classes of entertainment to come with the Xbox, and breaking into new customer segments." We're not quite sure what a new class of entertainment for the Xbox might mean, or what customer segments remain untapped after such a long console cycle, but "new price points" sure does pique our interest.

JoystiqMicrosoft wants to sell another 25 million Xbox 360 consoles originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 25 May 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftsalesxboxxbox-oneYusuf-MehdiSat, 25 May 2013 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Splinter Cell: Blacklist co-op developer diary works together]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/25/splinter-cell-blacklist-co-op-developer-diary-works-together/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/25/splinter-cell-blacklist-co-op-developer-diary-works-together/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/25/splinter-cell-blacklist-co-op-developer-diary-works-together/#comments
This developer diary video for Splinter Cell: Blacklist explores the characters that players can use in the game's co-op missions. The game is coming to Wii U, PS3, Xbox 360 and PC on August 20.

JoystiqSplinter Cell: Blacklist co-op developer diary works together originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 25 May 2013 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>co-opdeveloper-diarymicrosoftnintendopcplaystationps3splinter-cellsplinter-cell-blacklisttrailerUbisoftUbisoft-Montrealubisoft-torontowii-uxboxSat, 25 May 2013 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[See Ein and Jacky throw down in Dead or Alive 5 Ultimate]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/25/see-ein-and-jacky-throw-down-in-dead-or-alive-5-ultimate/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/25/see-ein-and-jacky-throw-down-in-dead-or-alive-5-ultimate/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/25/see-ein-and-jacky-throw-down-in-dead-or-alive-5-ultimate/#comments
Virtua Fighter's Jacky Bryant will join his sister Sarah in Dead or Alive 5 Ultimate and, in a new trailer and set of screens, the pair team up in a tag match. We get a good glimpse at some of the spiky-haired brawler's move set, alongside Ultimate's other new cast member, Ein.

Dead or Alive 5 Ultimate is an upcoming retail and digital re-release on Xbox 360 and PS3 of last year's Team Ninja fighter, Dead or Alive 5. Ultimate includes modes and content from the PS Vita port Dead or Alive 5 Plus, like additional stages - some themed around Ninja Gaiden - and, of course, extra characters.

Gallery: Dead or Alive 5 Ultimate (5/24/13)

JoystiqSee Ein and Jacky throw down in Dead or Alive 5 Ultimate originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 25 May 2013 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-or-alive-5microsoftplaystationps3team-ninjatecmo-koeixboxSat, 25 May 2013 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Overdose on Arrested Development during free Xbox Live Gold weekend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/overdose-on-arrested-development-during-free-xbox-live-gold-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/overdose-on-arrested-development-during-free-xbox-live-gold-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/overdose-on-arrested-development-during-free-xbox-live-gold-week/#commentsOverdose on Arrested Development during free Xbox Live Gold weekend Microsoft is hosting a free Xbox Live weekend for non-Gold subscribers, giving Netflix members a chance to indulge in the 15 new episodes of Arrested Development premiering on Sunday, May 26.

Xbox Live Silver members will receive free access to Gold services starting today in the U.S., Canada, U.K., Ireland, Brazil, Mexico, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Chile, Colombia and Argentina. Note, however, that you'll need to have an active Netflix account in order to watch the new season of Arrested Development, as membership isn't included as part of the free weekend.

Make sure you set aside a chunk of time if you plan on marathonning all 15 episodes, as you'll only have one day to watch them all, if you're a Silver member. If you miss out, you're required to walk away from your Xbox 360 looking like this.

JoystiqOverdose on Arrested Development during free Xbox Live Gold weekend originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 May 2013 22:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>free-xbox-live-gold-weekendmicrosoftnetflixxboxxbox-live-goldFri, 24 May 2013 22:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft cleared of Motorola patent violation claim]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/microsoft-cleared-of-motorola-patent-violation-claim/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/microsoft-cleared-of-motorola-patent-violation-claim/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/microsoft-cleared-of-motorola-patent-violation-claim/#comments The International Trade Commission has decided not to review the decision made last March by the administrative law judge presiding over Motorola's patent infringement case against Microsoft, thereby validating the judge's findings - which were in favor of Microsoft - and closing the case, Engadget reports.

The initial scuffle, first filed in 2010, claimed that Microsoft had infringed upon five of Motorola Mobility's patents. Four patents were dropped from the case during the course of the proceedings, the last remaining patent covering peer-to-peer communication between wireless devices.

Originally, ITC judge David Shaw ruled in favor of Motorola and subsequently recommended a ban on Xbox imports into the US. Then, in June of last year, the ITC remanded the decision back to the administrative law judge and asked him to take another look, effectively starting the process all over again. His second ruling, this time in favor of Microsoft, was delivered last March and will be the final word on the subject, now that the ITC has declined the opportunity to review his decision.

JoystiqMicrosoft cleared of Motorola patent violation claim originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 May 2013 21:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>international-trade-commissionITCkinectlawlawsuitlegalmicrosoftmotorolaMotorola-MobilitypatentxboxFri, 24 May 2013 21:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo 'Bootcamp' project spotted on Korean ratings board]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/bootcamp-spotted-on-korean-ratings-board-halo-3-mentioned/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/bootcamp-spotted-on-korean-ratings-board-halo-3-mentioned/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/bootcamp-spotted-on-korean-ratings-board-halo-3-mentioned/#comments A listing for something called "Bootcamp" has surfaced over on the Korean ratings board GRB. Its description specifically calls out Halo 3 and classifies "Bootcamp" as a PC/Online game.

In a comment to GameFront, Microsoft dismissed any association with Xbox One, which would suggest the new TV series in the works is ruled out. Microsoft also denied any connection with the Reclaimer saga started with Halo 4 in the same statement.

Speculation is this could be a PC port of Halo 3, though Microsoft doesn't seem to be addressing that question either. We've reached out for comment.

JoystiqHalo 'Bootcamp' project spotted on Korean ratings board originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 May 2013 21:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bootcampgrbhaloHalo-3korean-ratings-boardmicrosoftpcxboxFri, 24 May 2013 21:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Call of Duty: Ghosts has Kinect voice commands on Xbox One]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/call-of-duty-ghosts-has-kinect-voice-commands-on-xbox-one/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/call-of-duty-ghosts-has-kinect-voice-commands-on-xbox-one/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/call-of-duty-ghosts-has-kinect-voice-commands-on-xbox-one/#comments Activision Publishing CEO Eric Hirshberg has confirmed that the Xbox One version of Call of Duty: Ghosts will have some form of Kinect voice commands. Speaking to VentureBeat, Hirshberg said, "I made a passing comment that you're going to see voice integration, voice commands via Kinect, which is something that we haven't done in the past with Call of Duty." He added that the improvements made to Kinect for Xbox One "really excite" the publisher.

Hirshberg also reassured fans that Kinect support won't be careless. "We've always made sure that we don't just use new technology for novelty's sake, he said. "We always make sure that it makes the gameplay better. In this case, we think it will."

He didn't elaborate on what the voice commands might be, but we imagine they will be something along the lines of, "Come here! Who's a good boy? Are you a good boy? Yes, you are. Yes, you are!"

JoystiqCall of Duty: Ghosts has Kinect voice commands on Xbox One originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 May 2013 20:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisioncall-of-duty-ghostsinfinity-wardkinectmicrosoftxboxFri, 24 May 2013 20:40:00 EST<![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[Fight Night franchise on hold as EA Canada focuses on UFC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/fight-night-franchise-on-hold-as-ea-canada-focuses-on-ufc/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/fight-night-franchise-on-hold-as-ea-canada-focuses-on-ufc/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/fight-night-franchise-on-hold-as-ea-canada-focuses-on-ufc/#comments With EA Canada focused on EA's upcoming UFC game, the Fight Night franchise has been put on hold at EA Sports.

"Right now, a great portion of the core of the Fight Night team are actually the team that are building UFC," EA Sports executive vice president Andrew Wilson told IGN. "Do I see a future for Fight Night? You know, sure. But right now, UFC is where our fighting focus is."

2011's Fight Night Champion was the latest game in EA's boxing franchise, introducing a new "Full-Spectrum" punch control system and a Hollywood-inspired campaign following fictitious convict boxer's struggle to overcome adversity and many, many punches to the face. The series was born from the ashes of EA's previous boxing series, Knockout Kings, in 2004.

JoystiqFight Night franchise on hold as EA Canada focuses on UFC originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 May 2013 19:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>andrew-wilsoneaea-canadaea-sportsfight-nightfight-night-championmicrosoftplaystationps3ufcxboxFri, 24 May 2013 19:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Call of Juarez: Gunslinger review: Back in the saddle]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/call-of-juarez-gunslinger-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/call-of-juarez-gunslinger-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/call-of-juarez-gunslinger-review/#comments It's pretty rare for a game series to get as many chances as Call of Juarez has. After a middling debut, the series drummed up lots of critical goodwill with Bound in Blood, and then absolutely threw it all away with the awful The Cartel. Now, Techland has ventured back to the Wild West with Call of Juarez: Gunslinger, and the developer's got something to prove.

Perhaps seeking to distance itself from The Cartel, Gunslinger is a different beast in almost every way, and it works. The most immediately obvious difference is the art style. Instead of the mostly realistic style of past Juarez games, Gunslinger opts for a more stylized and bombastic look. It's as if the developers threw anime, Mad Max, and The Good the Bad and the Ugly and Borderlands into a blender. That might sound weird, but it's a refreshing and enjoyable change.

Gunslinger also has very little in common with its predecessors when it comes to story. The only real connection is a collectible with a short biography of Ray McCall, one of the protagonists from the first two games. This time around, Gunslinger puts players into the dusty spurs of bounty hunter Silas Greaves.

Gallery: Call of Juarez: Gunslinger (4/22/13)

Continue reading Call of Juarez: Gunslinger review: Back in the saddle

JoystiqCall of Juarez: Gunslinger review: Back in the saddle originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 May 2013 19:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>call-of-juarez-gunslingermicrosoftpcplaystationps3techlandubisoftxboxFri, 24 May 2013 19:10:00 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[GameStop stock closes week down 19%]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/gamestop-stock-closes-week-down-19/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/gamestop-stock-closes-week-down-19/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/gamestop-stock-closes-week-down-19/#commentsImage GameStop's stock concluded the trading week down 19 percent, attributable to continuing investor concerns over Xbox One's used games market solution. The most volatile decline occurred after a report out of the UK this morning claimed GameStop's margins in the pre-owned market would be affected by others taking a cut.

Microsoft sent out the following statement a half hour before trading closed today: "The ability to trade in and resell games is important to gamers and to Xbox. Xbox One is designed to support the trade in and resale of games. Reports about our policies for trade in and resale are inaccurate and incomplete. We will disclose more information in the near future."

GameStop's stock dropped nearly 11 percent today, down $3.90/share to $32.11. At its worst, the company's stock was down to $31/share today. GameStop concluded its previous fiscal year with pre-owned video game products representing $2.4 billion in sales (27.4 percent for the year). If you want a public answer to Microsoft's used game plans, you got nothing on the company that's losing hundreds of millions in value off the situation.
[Image: nuttapol yupothong via Shutterstock]

JoystiqGameStop stock closes week down 19% originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 May 2013 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamestopkinectmicrosoftxboxFri, 24 May 2013 17:20:00 EST<![CDATA[GRID 2 BAC Mono Edition is £125,000]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/grid-2-bac-mono-edition-is-125-000/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/grid-2-bac-mono-edition-is-125-000/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/grid-2-bac-mono-edition-is-125-000/#comments You might be thinking that some countries use commas instead of decimal points, but the headline above does indeed say one hundred and twenty-five thousand British Pounds ($188,700). You might also think that's awfully expensive for the special edition of a racing game (any game, really), but allow us to put things in perspective. The GRID 2 BAC Mono Edition isn't so much a special edition of a game as it is a luxury sports car that happens to come with a game.

Specifically, the BAC Mono Edition comes with the Mono, essentially a street legal formula racing car. Also included is a racing suit and helmet, a copy of GRID 2 and a PlayStation 3 on which to play it. According to BAC's website, a Mono with no frills has a base price of £96,495 ($145,919), and that's before throwing in VAT. Only one copy of the BAC Mono Edition is being manufactured, making it something a collector's item. You can place your pre-order exclusively with GAME. Oh, and shipping is free.

Not to be left out, Best Buy is hosting a special edition of GRID 2 in North America. It includes the IndyCar DLC pack and retails for $59.99.

GRID 2 comes out next week.

Gallery: Grid 2 (BAC Mono Edition)

Continue reading GRID 2 BAC Mono Edition is £125,000

JoystiqGRID 2 BAC Mono Edition is £125,000 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 May 2013 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bacbac-monocodemastersgrid-2microsoftmonoplaystationps3ukxboxFri, 24 May 2013 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Xbox One to feature Skype remote play]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/rumor-xbox-one-to-feature-skype-remote-play/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/rumor-xbox-one-to-feature-skype-remote-play/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/rumor-xbox-one-to-feature-skype-remote-play/#comments Rumor has it that Microsoft's Xbox One console will feature remote play through Skype, allowing someone to remotely take over gameplay on the local console directly from a Skype call. Either player may break the remote play session at any time.

Supposedly the feature is in testing phase right now, though Polygon's source notes that certain details are still up in the air - like how long that individual can remotely play or whether they need to own the same game or not. During the Xbox reveal event, Microsoft unveiled group Skype calls using the Xbox One's improved Kinect sensor.

JoystiqRumor: Xbox One to feature Skype remote play originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 May 2013 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kinectmicrosoftremote-playskypexboxxbox-oneFri, 24 May 2013 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo 4 for $18 at Best Buy today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/halo-4-for-18-at-best-buy-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/halo-4-for-18-at-best-buy-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/halo-4-for-18-at-best-buy-today/#comments If you've yet to experience John 117's latest adventure, you should know that Halo 4 is a mere $18 at Best Buy today. That deal is valid only for today, by the way, giving you a great excuse Forerunning to the nearest store.

[Thanks, Hank!]

JoystiqHalo 4 for $18 at Best Buy today originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 May 2013 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-Industrieshalo-4microsoftmicrosoft-studiosxboxFri, 24 May 2013 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Capcom Arcade Cabinet all-in-one available now]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/psa-capcom-arcade-cabinet-all-in-one-available-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/psa-capcom-arcade-cabinet-all-in-one-available-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/psa-capcom-arcade-cabinet-all-in-one-available-now/#comments
Your patience has paid off. Today, Capcom has issued the full Capcom Arcade Cabinet collection - a cheaper bundle of all 17 games previously issued in piecemeal packs and as individual downloads. The all-in-one pack is available starting today for 2,000 MS Points ($30), a saving of $15 over purchasing all five game packs.

Capcom Arcade Cabinet highlights games from the publisher's catalog spanning the years between 1984 and 1988. The full list of 17 games within the Capcom Arcade Cabinet are Black Tiger, Avengers, 1943, The Battle of Midway, Ghosts n Goblins, Gun Smoke, Section Z, Side Arms, Legendary Wings, Trojan, Commando, The Speed Rumbler, Exed Exes (Savage Bees), 1942, SonSon and Pirate Ship Higemaru. There are also two secret games: 1943 Kai and Vulgus.

JoystiqPSA: Capcom Arcade Cabinet all-in-one available now originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 May 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomcapcom-arcade-cabinetmicrosoftplaystationplaystation-networkps3psnxblaxboxxbox-live-arcadeFri, 24 May 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Publishers to receive cut of Xbox One pre-owned sales]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/report-publishers-to-receive-cut-of-xbox-one-pre-owned-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/report-publishers-to-receive-cut-of-xbox-one-pre-owned-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/report-publishers-to-receive-cut-of-xbox-one-pre-owned-sales/#comments
The Xbox One will support the used games market, but how this will happen and who stands to benefit has been a topic of much discussion this week. As Microsoft continues to allow speculation to run rampant, MCV has gotten in touch with UK retail sources who explained a plausible scenario of how the system will work.

A customer walks into a reseller with a previously purchased game disc. This can only be done at retailers that, according to MCV, have "agreed to Microsoft's [terms and conditions] and more importantly integrated Microsoft's cloud-based Azure pre-owned system into its own." The game disc, having been registered in the system, now wipes the license use from the previous owner's account so that the installed game on their Xbox One can no longer be accessed.

Here's the delicate part: the publisher and Microsoft will now receive a cut from the sale. Previously, a company like GameStop pocketed 100 percent of the used game sale, now ConsoleDeals.co.uk is reporting it could be significantly less if Microsoft has oversight of the market. The pre-owned market would go on, but its glorious margins for retailers would be destroyed. Meanwhile, publishers would finally get what they've always dreamed of: a piece of that pie.

JoystiqReport: Publishers to receive cut of Xbox One pre-owned sales originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 May 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftxboxxbox-oneFri, 24 May 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox One official game box design unveiled]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/xbox-one-official-game-box-design-unveiled/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/xbox-one-official-game-box-design-unveiled/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/xbox-one-official-game-box-design-unveiled/#commentsXbox One official game box design unveiled Microsoft repre-soldier Major Nelson confirmed the box designs for Xbox One games by showing off how copies of the newly announced Forza Motorsport 5 will look. Much like how the Wii U went bold with blue, the Xbox One design is gallant in green.

The Forza 5 design also reveals the logo of BBC motorcar show Top Gear. Forza 4 featured Top Gear content, and so will Forza 5, apparently. You can check out the full box art by speeding on past the break.

Continue reading Xbox One official game box design unveiled

JoystiqXbox One official game box design unveiled originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 May 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>box-artforza-motorsport-5microsofttop-gearturn-10-studiosxboxxbox-oneFri, 24 May 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EA expects to publish for current systems through 2017]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/ea-expects-to-publish-for-current-systems-through-2017/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/ea-expects-to-publish-for-current-systems-through-2017/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/ea-expects-to-publish-for-current-systems-through-2017/#commentsEA CFO says it will publish currentgen until 2017, Star Wars deal gives a Battlefront 'opportunity' Speaking at the Stifel 2013 Technology Conference in New York this week, EA CFO Blake Jorgensen said that EA plans to publish games on the current generation of consoles through 2017 at least.

According to Gamespot's report, Jorgenson also discussed EA's exclusive Star Wars deal and specifically referenced fan favorite Star Wars: Battlefront. "The opportunity to do a new Battlefront, for example," Jorgensen said, "is very exciting." He added that none of EA's planned Star Wars games are film adaptations "per se," though their releases may coincide with upcoming movies.

JoystiqEA expects to publish for current systems through 2017 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 May 2013 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic-artsmicrosoftnba-live-13nba-live-14playstationplaystation-3playstation-4ps3releasesstar-warsxboxxbox-360xbox-oneThu, 23 May 2013 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Turtle Beach crafting accessories for Xbox One]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/turtle-beach-crafting-accessories-for-xbox-one/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/turtle-beach-crafting-accessories-for-xbox-one/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/turtle-beach-crafting-accessories-for-xbox-one/#commentsTurtle Beach crafting accessories for Xbox One We haven't even seen what the Xbox One's first-party headset looks like yet, but Turtle Beach is already hoping folks will opt for its premium alternatives. The headset manufacturer announced today that it will be "among the first to market with Microsoft-licensed gaming headsets for the Xbox One."

Further details with regards to specific models, price points or expected release windows were not given, though we can assume from Turtle Beach's current Xbox 360 lineup that the SKUs will be plentiful and the price disparities vast.

In related news, we're still disappointed that "Turtle Beach" isn't the name of a company that makes tiny folding chairs and miniature parasols for reptile terrariums.

Continue reading Turtle Beach crafting accessories for Xbox One

JoystiqTurtle Beach crafting accessories for Xbox One originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 May 2013 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoriesheadsetsmicrosoftTurtle-BeachxboxXbox-OneThu, 23 May 2013 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamestop: 'Xbox has said that they do support' used games market]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/gamestop-xbox-has-said-that-they-do-support-used-games-market/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/gamestop-xbox-has-said-that-they-do-support-used-games-market/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/gamestop-xbox-has-said-that-they-do-support-used-games-market/#commentsGameStop financial call, listen to it Gamestop's approach to the Xbox One's nebulous pre-owned game policies - which may include charging players a fee for booting up a used game - involves emphasis on digital adaptation, and letting Microsoft do the talking.

"I figured that question would come up," Gamestop President Tony Bartel said during a financial call's Q&A segment. "Definitely Xbox has said that they do support the trade-in/resale games at retail and that they want to handle communication from this point forward on that. I think what is important to note is that all three of the consoles that have launched have now come back and they say, 'I realize the value of the buy-sell-trade model,' and they have built that into their new consoles moving forward. We anticipate that we are going to be able to leverage that, like we leverage it on the consoles today."

Microsoft has yet to clear up its used-game policy with the Xbox One, including whether it will charge a fee for pre-owned playtime. Gamestop generates the majority of its profit from used game and hardware sales, and following Microsoft's Xbox One event, Gamestop's stock fell five percent.

Responding to another Xbox One question, Gamestop executives noted that its stores have systems for selling digital content, and they've sold digital products in the past.

"Digital content can be easily discovered," Bartel said. "We will actually work with Microsoft and we will work with Sony as they come out with - I guess what you would call 'non-gaming entertainment properties.' We'll be selling those in our store." Customers will be able to pay for this content with trade-in currency, other executives said.

In the previous generation transition, Gamestop saw people trade in all of their old games and systems to start fresh, and said it expected customers to do the same this time around. In the first 48 hours after the Xbox One's reveal, 250,000 people signed up for Gamestop's first-to-know list.

"There's lots of rumors out there," Bartel said. He later continued, "I, for one, am very interested in what they're going to say at E3."

Aren't we all?

JoystiqGamestop: 'Xbox has said that they do support' used games market originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamestopmicrosoftq1-2013trade-inused-gamesxboxxbox-oneThu, 23 May 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamestop Q1 sales and profits down, mobile/digital sales up]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/gamestop-q1-sales-and-profits-down-mobile-digital-sales-up/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/gamestop-q1-sales-and-profits-down-mobile-digital-sales-up/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/gamestop-q1-sales-and-profits-down-mobile-digital-sales-up/#comments Gamestop's financial data for the first quarter of its fiscal 2013 have arrived like a pizza with nearly 25 percent fewer toppings than the pizza you ordered during the same 13-week period last year. Also, cheesy bread sales are way up? This may not be the strongest analogy.

In non-allegorical terms, gross revenue (overall sales) and net income (post-tax profit) were both down year-over-year, at $1.865 billion and $54.6 million, respectively. As far as net income, that's a 24.69 percent decrease from the $72.5 million Gamestop reported at the end of Q1 2012.

Meanwhile, mobile device sales were up 290 percent, though this massive increase was largely due to the fact that Gamestop's mobile trade-in/sales program was just getting started during Q1 of 2012. Digital sales also increased, to the tune of 47.3 percent year-over-year, while new software sales, both physical and digital, fell 3.8 percent.

As was the case during Q1 2012, used hardware and software sales accounted for the majority of Gamestop's pre-tax profit, with new hardware and software sales making up just 29.5 percent of the quarter's overall gross.

JoystiqGamestop Q1 sales and profits down, mobile/digital sales up originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 May 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20133dsandroiddsfinancialsfiscal-2013gamestopmicrosoftmobilenintendopcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3pspQ1sonyvitawiiwii-uxboxThu, 23 May 2013 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[FIFA 14 launches September 24 in North America, 27 in Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/fifa-14-launches-september-24-in-north-america-27-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/fifa-14-launches-september-24-in-north-america-27-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/fifa-14-launches-september-24-in-north-america-27-in-europe/#commentsFIFA 14 release date, preorder perks FIFA 14 will line up for the North American continental anthem on September 24 for Xbox 360, PS3 and PC. The European launch is September 27.

Pre-orders of FIFA 14 through GameStop, Best Buy, Walmart, Target, Amazon or Origin get Ultimate Team gold packs. Each pack contains 12 items - players, contracts, stadiums, managers - to support players as they create fantasy teams of real-world athletes.

FIFA 14 is one of four EA Sports games confirmed for Xbox One, Microsoft's next-gen console revealed this week. FIFA 14 will use EA's new Ignite engine on Xbox One and PS4, but not PC or current-gen consoles.

Continue reading FIFA 14 launches September 24 in North America, 27 in Europe

JoystiqFIFA 14 launches September 24 in North America, 27 in Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 May 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EA-Sportsfifa-14microsoftpcplaystationps3release-datexboxThu, 23 May 2013 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Contrast comes out of the shadows on PSN, XBLA, PC in Q4 2013]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/contrast-comes-out-of-the-shadows-on-psn-xbla-pc-in-q4-2013/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/contrast-comes-out-of-the-shadows-on-psn-xbla-pc-in-q4-2013/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/contrast-comes-out-of-the-shadows-on-psn-xbla-pc-in-q4-2013/#comments
Contrast, the shadow-shifting puzzle platformer from Compulsion Games, will not be released in May as previously planned. After being Greenlit on Steam, the game has since been picked up by Focus Home Interactive for a wider release. Contrast will now be released on XBLA, PSN and PC in Q4 2013.

We think Constrast could be pretty cool. Here's a new trailer to help you endure the longer wait.

JoystiqContrast comes out of the shadows on PSN, XBLA, PC in Q4 2013 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 May 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>compulsion-studioscontrastfocus-home-interactivemicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxThu, 23 May 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Payday 2 planning an August heist, web series starts in two weeks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/payday-2-planning-an-august-heist-web-series-starts-in-two-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/payday-2-planning-an-august-heist-web-series-starts-in-two-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/payday-2-planning-an-august-heist-web-series-starts-in-two-week/#comments
Payday 2, the Overkill-developed crook sim, is set to launch in August. The news comes at the end of the trailer above, which teases a new web series set to start in two weeks.

We have yet to see any actual Payday 2 gameplay beyond a brief teaser issued in March, but feel free to case our gallery of in-game shots below. Payday 2 - which adds classes and a contracts database on top of its predecessor's core robbery mechanics - is planning its heist on Steam, PS3 and Xbox 360. Pre-orders are open on Steam right now and all who sign up early will get an in-game loot pack.

Gallery: Payday 2

JoystiqPayday 2 planning an August heist, web series starts in two weeks originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 May 2013 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>505-gamesmicrosoftoverkillpayday-2pcplaystationps3starbreezeweb-seriesxboxThu, 23 May 2013 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Next-gen Kinect for Windows gesticulating in 2014]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/next-gen-kinect-for-windows-gesticulating-in-2014/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/next-gen-kinect-for-windows-gesticulating-in-2014/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/next-gen-kinect-for-windows-gesticulating-in-2014/#comments Microsoft has announced Kinect for Windows will receive the updated Kinect sensor shown at the Xbox reveal event for the Xbox One. The rub: it won't arrive until some time in 2014.

We already knew Kinect for Windows would be updated with the new sensor and a new software development kit (SDK). The improved Kinect sports a 1080p RGB camera, capable of 30 FPS in full color, and can even see in the dark through infrared. The new Kinect also has a greater field of depth which Microsoft promises will cut down on the required distance from the device. It can also read your heartbeat but we try not to think about that too much because it's scary.

JoystiqNext-gen Kinect for Windows gesticulating in 2014 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 May 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kinectkinect-for-windowsmicrosoftpcwindowsxboxxbox-oneThu, 23 May 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Joystiq Podcast 051 Live: Xbox One]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/super-joystiq-podcast-051-live-xbox-one/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/super-joystiq-podcast-051-live-xbox-one/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/super-joystiq-podcast-051-live-xbox-one/#comments
This week's live Super Joystiq Podcast is all about the Xbox One. This is our second show on the topic, but a lot more info has trickled out in the last two days. We'll also get to hear the straight dope from our own Ludwig Kietzmann and Alexander Sliwinski, who both attended Microsoft's Xbox Reveal event in Washington.

And since we're on the subject of Xbox, we'll be giving away a very limited edition Xbox 360 controller - there's only one of them - featuring the Joystiq logo and long-lasting, built-in lithium-ion battery. Tune it to see how you can win.

The show goes live at 3:45 ET!

JoystiqSuper Joystiq Podcast 051 Live: Xbox One originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 May 2013 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kinectmicrosoftsuper-joystiq-podcastxboxThu, 23 May 2013 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix announces 'live' E3 video shows]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/square-enix-announces-live-e3-video-shows/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/square-enix-announces-live-e3-video-shows/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/square-enix-announces-live-e3-video-shows/#comments
You know Nintendo Direct - now meet Square Enix Presents. That's the name of the company's live-at-E3 video series, which it'll be broadcasting via YouTube.

Square Enix Presents promises coverage on the company's E3 line-up, which is expected to include the new Final Fantasy for PS4. It'll also feature dev interviews, game demos, and presentations on upcoming content. And, apparently, lots of chocobo music.

The shows will run across all three main days of the conference, which are June 11-13.

JoystiqSquare Enix announces 'live' E3 video shows originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 May 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2013microsoftplaystationplaystation-4ps3ps4square-enixsquare-enix-presentsxboxThu, 23 May 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Square Enix America CEO leaves, joins Amazon]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/report-square-enix-america-ceo-leaves-joins-amazon/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/report-square-enix-america-ceo-leaves-joins-amazon/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/report-square-enix-america-ceo-leaves-joins-amazon/#commentshit 1st Report Square Enix America president is out Square Enix America CEO Mike Fischer left the company this month and is now vice president of digital music and video for Amazon in Japan, Polygon reports. This follows news in April that Square Enix America eliminated "a number of positions" and Fischer was expected to leave in May. Those same reports said the head of marketing should be gone after E3, along with other employees in public relations.

In March, Square Enix President Yoichi Wada stepped down and the company announced widespread restructuring that it expected to cost $106 million. Square Enix posted a net loss of $134 million for fiscal year 2013, citing "weak" sales of major console games, including Sleeping Dogs, Hitman: Absolution and Tomb Raider, the last of which sold 3.4 million in its first month.

JoystiqReport: Square Enix America CEO leaves, joins Amazon originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 May 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dslay-offslayoffsmicrosoftmobilenintendopcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3pspsonySquare-Enixvitawiiwii-uxboxThu, 23 May 2013 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Destiny live-action trailer explores the law of the land]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/destiny/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/destiny/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/destiny/#comments

A new trailer for Destiny brings Bungie's new world into the live-action realm - with plenty of CG and story time with Breaking Bad's infamous villain. In the video, we learn about the law of the land in the upcoming, online-focused shooter, thanks to a passage from Rudyard Kipling's The Second Jungle Book.

Earlier this morning, Bungie sent Joystiq a copy of the classic story, featuring a highlighted passage detailing "The Law of the Jungle" and a note promising to see us at E3 2013. The video promises a "worldwide gameplay reveal" during Sony's E3 2013 press conference on June 10, 2013.

The passage from the book - as spoken in the trailer - reads: "Now this is the law of the jungle, as old and as true as the sky, And the wolf that shall keep it may prosper, but the wolf that shall break it must die. As the creeper that girdles the tree trunk, the law runneth forward and back; For the strength of the pack is the wolf, and the strength of the wolf is the pack." A fitting passage, considering Destiny's focus as an "always-on, persistent world adventure."

According to Variety, the ad - starring Giancarlo Esposito - was directed by Jon Favreau and produced by the ad shop 72 and Sunny, with visual effects from Digital Domain. Esposito and Favreau had previously worked together on the pilot of NBC's Revolution, which stars the standout boss figure from Breaking Bad. The ad will also be broadcast during Game 3 of the NBA Western Conference Finals on May 25.

Destiny is launching on the Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 in 2014.

Continue reading Destiny live-action trailer explores the law of the land

JoystiqDestiny live-action trailer explores the law of the land originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 May 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActivisionBungiedestinymicrosoftplaystationPlayStation-4ps3PS4xboxXbox-OneThu, 23 May 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Need for Speed Rivals on PC will look 'easily as good' as next-gen versions]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/need-for-speed-rivals-coming-to-pc-looks-easily-as-good-as-next-gen/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/need-for-speed-rivals-coming-to-pc-looks-easily-as-good-as-next-gen/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/need-for-speed-rivals-coming-to-pc-looks-easily-as-good-as-next-gen/#commentsNeed for Speed Rivals coming to PC, will look 'easily as good' as nextgen versions Need for Speed Rivals - the franchise's first turn into the new world of next-gen consoles - is also coming to the PC. In crafting the PC version, Ghost Games executive producer Marcus Nilsson promises "Need for Speed Rivals will look easily as good on PC as next-generation consoles."

The original press release for Need for Speed Rivals made no mention of a PC version; however, the PR has since been amended revealing the PC version will arrive on November 19 alongside the Xbox 360 and PS3 versions of the game. Xbox One and PS4 versions will launch "later this year."

Other than differences in graphical fidelity and online player count, Rivals features differences in its new marquee feature "AllDrive" across current- and next-gen systems. AllDrive is the ability for the game to "seamlessly" adapt to player interaction as they cross paths in the open-world space. On next-gen consoles, players will have unspecified exclusive ways to interact with the game using other devices.

Nilsson would not detail if the PC version's feature-set would be based on the current- or next-gen platform versions.

Expanding on how AllDrive would work, Nilsson offered an example of how the game would react to friends in the same world engaged in separate chases that come across each other. With the new feature, Need for Speed Rivals would recognize player proximity and any current missions and automatically shift objectives and scoring to that of a traditional co-op encounter. Players can enter and exit each other's worlds to race and interact "on-the-fly." The core features of AllDrive will be available on all platforms.

For more on Need for Speed Rivals, read our reveal post with additional comments from the game's executive producer.

[Ed. Note: This post was updated to reflect changes to the announcement press release.]

JoystiqNeed for Speed Rivals on PC will look 'easily as good' as next-gen versions originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 May 2013 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CriterionCriterion-GamesEAGhost-Gamesmicrosoftneed-for-speed-rivalspcplaystationps3xboxThu, 23 May 2013 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Need for Speed Rivals floors it to Xbox One, PS4 'later this year', PC and current-gen consoles Nov. 19]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/need-for-speed-rivals-speeds-to-xbox-one-ps4-and-current-gen-this-november/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/need-for-speed-rivals-speeds-to-xbox-one-ps4-and-current-gen-this-november/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/need-for-speed-rivals-speeds-to-xbox-one-ps4-and-current-gen-this-november/#commentsNeed for Speed Rivals races to currentgen Nov 19 Xbox One and PS4 'later this year' Recently renamed developer Ghost Games and the fellow racing fanatics at Criterion Games have banded together for Need for Speed Rivals: a new game that represents the franchise's first drift into the next-gen console world (which is not to be confused with the 2005 handheld spinoff).

Powered by Frostbite 3, Rivals aims to utilize the power of the Xbox One and PlayStation 4 to give players "the freedom to seamlessly go from single player to co-op to multiplayer" when it releases "later this year." [Update: This story has been updated for accuracy, removing mention of a release window for the next-gen versions from an outdated release draft.]

Need for Speed Rivals transports players to the fictitious Redview County, an open-world environment where players can take on the role as either street racer or police officer. Like Most Wanted before it, racers aim to become the most infamous person behind the wheel, while cops attempt to work together to drive the area's high-risk inhabitants off the road. Players can personalize the experience with custom license plates, paint, liveries decals and rims, and performance upgrades.

Current-generation consoles will also join the rivalry - powered by its own version of Frostbite 3 - on November 19. A PC version is also in the works.

Gallery: Need for Speed: Rivals

Continue reading Need for Speed Rivals floors it to Xbox One, PS4 'later this year', PC and current-gen consoles Nov. 19

JoystiqNeed for Speed Rivals floors it to Xbox One, PS4 'later this year', PC and current-gen consoles Nov. 19 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 May 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CriterionCriterion-GamesEAGhost-Gamesmicrosoftneed-for-speed-rivalspcplaystationPlayStation-4ps3PS4xboxXbox-1Xbox-OneThu, 23 May 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dying Light adds a dash of Parkour to Techland's zombie tour]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/dying-light-adds-a-dash-of-parkour-to-techlands-zombie-tour/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/dying-light-adds-a-dash-of-parkour-to-techlands-zombie-tour/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/dying-light-adds-a-dash-of-parkour-to-techlands-zombie-tour/#commentsDying Light adds a dash of parkour to Techland's zombie tour Techland is keeping its zombie vendetta going in Dying Light, a new first-person action game coming to Xbox One, PlayStation 4, PC, PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 in 2014, care of Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment.

The ruined-world game hinges on a realistic day/night cycle, as well as the agility and Parkour skills of the protagonist turned traceur. Day is pitched as a preparation phase, in which you scavenge a warmly lit urban wasteland for supplies and craft weapons to fend off undead walkers. The night requires a stealthier approach, if not a swift homeward retreat from deadlier monsters.

Combat in Dying Light appears to be largely based on upgradeable melee weaponry (eg. an electrified machete), with bone-breaking blows triggering an x-ray visual effect. Zombies can also be pushed into spiked walls with a jump-kick to the chest.

The frequency of fighting drops once night arrives and faster, more powerful creatures emerge. These can be detected via an on-screen pulse - one of the abilities you have by virtue of being an infected human yourself. When the monsters of the night do give chase, the camera can quickly flip 180 degrees to show their proximity, even while you dash and vault in the opposite direction. Movement certainly appears to be more fluid than in Techland's Dead Island, with which Dying Light shares a theme of smashing zombies in the tropical sun.

The openness of the environment, overall game structure and the true nature of nightfall, the publisher says, are details left for another day.

Gallery: Dying Light (2013-05-23)

JoystiqDying Light adds a dash of Parkour to Techland's zombie tour originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 May 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014dying-lighte3-2013microsoftpcplaystationps3ps4techlandwarner-brosxboxxbox-onezombiesThu, 23 May 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Grand Theft Auto 5 collector's editions detailed, priced]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/grand-theft-auto-5-collectors-editions-detailed-priced/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/grand-theft-auto-5-collectors-editions-detailed-priced/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/grand-theft-auto-5-collectors-editions-detailed-priced/#commentsImage Grand Theft Auto 5 will try to beat a couple extra bucks out of you with its "special edition" and "collector's edition," which were announced for pre-order this morning by Rockstar Games.

The $79.99 special edition includes the game, artbook, blueprint map, in-game special ability boost for the playable characters, stunt plane trials, bonus outfits and additional weapons. The $149.99 collector's edition includes everything already listed in the special edition, with the addition of security deposit bag and logo key, cap, classic characters for GTA online and "unique vehicles and garage property."

All pre-orders of the game will receive the Atomic Blimp in-game vehicle. Yes, a blimp. Grand Theft Auto 5 will deliver its goodyear goodies on September 17.

Continue reading Grand Theft Auto 5 collector's editions detailed, priced

JoystiqGrand Theft Auto 5 collector's editions detailed, priced originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 May 2013 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>grand-theft-auto-5gta5microsoftplaystationps3RockStarRockstar-GamesTake-TwoTake-Two-InteractivexboxThu, 23 May 2013 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Killer is Dead and depicted in new screens]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/killer-is-dead-and-depicted-in-new-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/killer-is-dead-and-depicted-in-new-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/killer-is-dead-and-depicted-in-new-screens/#comments Executioner and Killer is Dead protagonist Mondo Zapper has new stuff to stab in another stylish batch of screens, freshly taken from the upcoming Suda 51 action game.

Continue reading Killer is Dead and depicted in new screens

JoystiqKiller is Dead and depicted in new screens originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 May 2013 02:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>grasshopper-manufacturekiller-is-deadmicrosoftplaystationps3xboxxseedThu, 23 May 2013 02:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Joystiq Indie Pitch: Jamsouls]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/the-joystiq-indie-pitch-jamsouls/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/the-joystiq-indie-pitch-jamsouls/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/the-joystiq-indie-pitch-jamsouls/#commentsIt's not that there are too many indie games; it's that there aren't enough hours in a day to play all of them. The Joystiq Indie Pitch curates the best indies to play now and watch out for in the future.

The Joystiq Indie Pitch Jamsouls
What's your game called and what's it about?

Our game is called Jamsouls. We took inspiration from the famous tale of Pandora's Box to create crazy battles between naughty evil creatures in a vivid and colourful arena!

How have sales and visibility been on XBLIG? Is $1 a good price point for Jamsouls?

XBLIG has poor visibility compared to other games featured on the Xbox Marketplace. We feel that the platform is dying slowly, and that Microsoft is not really interested in this indie scene anymore, which is a shame.

We chose the price of $1 because we wanted the game to have maximum exposure. The price of 80 points is very reasonable for anyone wanting to try the game out.

Continue reading The Joystiq Indie Pitch: Jamsouls

JoystiqThe Joystiq Indie Pitch: Jamsouls originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chromatic-dreamgreenlightIndiejamsoulsjoystiq-indie-pitchmicrosoftpcsteam-greenlightxbligxboxWed, 22 May 2013 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Microsoft's NFL deal valued at $400 million over five years]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/report-microsofts-nfl-deal-valued-at-400-million-over-five-ye/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/report-microsofts-nfl-deal-valued-at-400-million-over-five-ye/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/report-microsofts-nfl-deal-valued-at-400-million-over-five-ye/#comments The NFL will receive $400 million from Microsoft over the next five years, according to an Associated Press source. The partnership was announced during Microsoft's Xbox One unveiling yesterday and will see NFL content coming to Microsoft's next-generation console.

As for the NFL side, fans will see Microsoft branding on-field during live games starting this upcoming season. Coaches and other team officials will be provided Microsoft Surface tablets, with the possibility of further technological innovations coming from Microsoft throughout the longevity of the deal.

The Xbox One will have interactive features integrated during broadcasts, including SmartGlass, group Skype calling and fantasy stats available during live NFL games. Recently, Amazon announced a limited edition version of Madden NFL 25 bundled with a free DirecTV NFL Sunday Ticket subscription.

JoystiqReport: Microsoft's NFL deal valued at $400 million over five years originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kinectmicrosoftnational-football-leaguenflxboxxbox-onexbox-revealWed, 22 May 2013 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Alan Wake series featured in Humble Weekly Sale]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/alan-wake-series-featured-in-humble-weekly-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/alan-wake-series-featured-in-humble-weekly-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/alan-wake-series-featured-in-humble-weekly-sale/#comments
Downtrodden horror author Alan Wake stars in the latest Humble Weekly Sale, which offers up downloadable Windows versions of Remedy's third-person shooter Alan Wake and its follow-up American Nightmare for a buyer-chosen price (minimum $1).

Bundle buyers will receive DRM-free downloads of Alan Wake: Collector's Edition and Alan Wake's American Nightmare, along with Steam keys for both games. The package features a bevy of bonus material, including digital comic books, a playthrough video, and standalone episodes of the Remedy-produced "Night Springs" fictional television series - new episodes of which Joystiq debuted last year.

Xbox Live hosts its own Alan Wake series sale this week. Through May 29, the Xbox 360 Games on Demand version of Alan Wake is priced at 400 Microsoft points ($5), while the Xbox Live Arcade follow-up American Nightmare is a dollar cheaper at 320 points. Alan Wake DLC and avatar items are also on sale through next week.

In the announcement video above, Remedy's Sam Lake (who you might recognize as Max Payne's face model) reveals that the Alan Wake series has sold over three million units to date, and addresses fan reaction to the company's decision to develop the upcoming Xbox One-exclusive title Quantum Break, rather than an Alan Wake sequel.

"We definitely want to keep on working on Alan Wake," Lake assures. "I definitely want to create something new for Alan Wake, when the time is right."

JoystiqAlan Wake series featured in Humble Weekly Sale originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Alan-Wakealan-wakes-american-nightmarebundlehumble-weekly-salemicrosoftpcremedysteamxboxWed, 22 May 2013 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Comparing next-gen Call of Duty dogs in Ghosts to MW3 dogs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/comparing-next-gen-call-of-duty-dogs-in-ghosts-to-mw3-dogs/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/comparing-next-gen-call-of-duty-dogs-in-ghosts-to-mw3-dogs/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/comparing-next-gen-call-of-duty-dogs-in-ghosts-to-mw3-dogs/#comments
With the next generation of the Call of Duty engine, Activision studios will be able to produce curved objects with realism never before seen in the series. In layman's terms, that means the dogs will look really good - just look at Ghost Dog compared to MW3 Dog. Woof!

JoystiqComparing next-gen Call of Duty dogs in Ghosts to MW3 dogs originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisioncall-of-duty-ghostsinfinity-wardmicrosoftplaystationplaystation-4ps3ps4xboxxbox-oneWed, 22 May 2013 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Far Cry 3 map editor injected with Blood Dragon goodness]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/far-cry-3-map-editor-injected-with-blood-dragon-goodness/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/far-cry-3-map-editor-injected-with-blood-dragon-goodness/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/far-cry-3-map-editor-injected-with-blood-dragon-goodness/#comments Cheesy-awesome retro news today, as Ubisoft has announced the release of a Blood Dragon asset pack for the Far Cry 3 map editor. The "Mark IV Style" pack for the editor allows players to create levels with the same neon-drenched visuals as Far Cry 3: Blood Dragon (pictured).

The pack is available now for free on Xbox 360 and PS3. We haven't spotted it on either Steam or Uplay, but we're checking with Ubisoft regarding a PC release.

JoystiqFar Cry 3 map editor injected with Blood Dragon goodness originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcfar-cry-3far-cry-3-blood-dragonmicrosoftplaystationps3ubisoftxboxWed, 22 May 2013 18:30:00 EST