Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogobig.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Off the Grid Special: Game Design 101]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/26/off-the-grid-special-game-design-101/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/26/off-the-grid-special-game-design-101/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/26/off-the-grid-special-game-design-101/#commentsFiled under: ,


Every other week Scott Jon Siegel contributes Off the Grid, a column about card games, board games, and everything else non-digital.

For nearly two years now, Off the Grid has introduced (and reintroduced) Joystiq's readers to some of the best board and card games on the market. The relationship between our modern video games and their non-digital counterparts is very clear-cut. As Gamelab CEO Eric Zimmerman puts it: "a game is a game is a game."

So for those readers who aspire to create games of their own, it should come as no surprise that non-digital games are a great starting place for honing the craft of game design. With no programming skills required, non-digital game design is an easy way to begin thinking creatively about interaction, without the complicated prerequisities of digital game development.

The best leaping-off point for non-digital game design is with the tools. Most gamers probably already have some fantastic equipment in their closets. So let's look at the basic tools of the trade.

JoystiqOff the Grid Special: Game Design 101 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Jun 2008 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>game-designjoystiqfeaturesoff-the-gridoffthegridThu, 26 Jun 2008 16:55:00 EST<![CDATA[New study compares 360, PS3 consumers ]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/new-study-compares-360-ps3-consumers/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/new-study-compares-360-ps3-consumers/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/new-study-compares-360-ps3-consumers/#commentsFiled under: , ,


A new study released by the Experian Group compares the consumers of the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360. The findings cover age breakdowns, leisurely activities, and personal philosophies about recycling (seriously).

Most interesting amongst the somewhat sparse research points was the age breakdown of console owners. Experian pegs Xbox 360 owners at being within the average age range of 35-44, while placing PS3 users as being over 44 on average. Other than age, the report shows that both 360 and PS3 owners share similar interests (board games, go-carting), and both reportedly watch less television than non-gamers polled (um, probably because they're playing games instead).

Dramantic findings, indeed! The full report is available for viewing online.

JoystiqNew study compares 360, PS3 consumers originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Jun 2008 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demographicsexperianPS3Xbox-360Mon, 23 Jun 2008 19:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumorang: Forza 3 'core game' will be on one disc]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/rumorang-forza-3-core-game-will-be-on-one-disc/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/rumorang-forza-3-core-game-will-be-on-one-disc/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/rumorang-forza-3-core-game-will-be-on-one-disc/#commentsFiled under: ,


Last week we reported that Forza 3's sheer glut of content may mean the game will span two discs -- a feat not performed in console racing titles since Gran Turismo 2 back in 1999.

Fears of frequent disc swapping have been tentatively belayed, however. The Angry Pixel reports that only one disc will hold the "core game" content, presumably with the second disc holding additional, non-integral features. This possible scenario comes from a source at Dhruva Interactive, an India-based game developer contracted to deliver 3D assets for Forza 3.

The source also states that more news on the anticipated racing title is coming "fairly soon," so we'll hopefully get to the bottom of this "2 discs 1 game" rumor in the near future.

JoystiqRumorang: Forza 3 'core game' will be on one disc originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Jun 2008 18:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>forza-3microsoftXbox-360Mon, 23 Jun 2008 18:45:00 EST<![CDATA[PopCap hints at major console collaboration]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/popcap-hints-at-major-console-collaboration/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/popcap-hints-at-major-console-collaboration/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/popcap-hints-at-major-console-collaboration/#commentsFiled under: ,


Casual game developer PopCap Games continues its slow entry into the console game market, with recent hints suggesting a collaboration with a major console-based game developer.

Speaking to Gamasutra, PopCap co-founder John Vechey referred to the unannounced partnership as "the coolest collaboration ever, I promise." Vechey also claims it will go down as one of the top ten collaborations of all time in the industry. Strong words, Mr. Vechey. We anxiously await the formal announcement (or maybe we'll just distract ourselves with Peggle in the meantime).

JoystiqPopCap hints at major console collaboration originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Jun 2008 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>popcapFri, 20 Jun 2008 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Multiwinia preview shows off pixelated mayhem]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/multiwinia-preview-shows-off-pixelated-mayhem/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/multiwinia-preview-shows-off-pixelated-mayhem/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/multiwinia-preview-shows-off-pixelated-mayhem/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Introversion devotees know exactly what Multiwinia is and why they should be excited, but many others might not remember the multiplayer update to award-winning strategy title Darwinia, due out this September. Both parties should check out Rock Paper Shotgun's extensive preview of Multiwinia, showing off just how hardcore the adorable little flat sprites can be.

Multiwinia: Survival of the Flattest will feature the usual smattering of multiplayer modes, built upon the stellar gameplay and gorgeous aesthetic that made Darwinia an instant Joystiq classic. Gameplay modes will include Darwinian twists on deathmatch, king of the hill, capture the flag, territories, and a few more modes unique to the Darwinia universe. We can't wait to wage tiny, tiny war.

JoystiqMultiwinia preview shows off pixelated mayhem originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Jun 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DarwiniaDarwinia-PlusIntroversion-SoftwareMicrosoftmultiwiniaPCRTSStrategyXBLAXbox-360Fri, 20 Jun 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Off the Grid reviews Power Grid]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/19/off-the-grid-reviews-power-grid/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/19/off-the-grid-reviews-power-grid/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/19/off-the-grid-reviews-power-grid/#commentsFiled under: ,


Every other week Scott Jon Siegel contributes Off the Grid, a column about card games, board games, and everything else non-digital.

In real life, scarcity isn't fun. Scarcity is the rising price of gas, or the difficulty of finding a job. In a game, however, scarcity can be incredibly compelling, and make for a very unique play experience. Enter Power Grid, a board game by German designer Friedemann Friese which uses scarcity at every level of its design to produce one helluva strategy title.

The player's task in the game is to power as much of the country as possible (United States on one side of the board, or alternatively Germany on the other). As heads of various power companies (think Montgomery Burns or whoever runs PG&E), your tasks are to buy power plants, purchase resources, and allocate those resources to control as many houses in as many cities as possible. Money's not the deciding factor here; players will be judged and ranked solely on the amount of power they're pushing.

Continue reading Off the Grid reviews Power Grid

JoystiqOff the Grid reviews Power Grid originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Jun 2008 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>off-the-gridoffthegridpower-gridThu, 19 Jun 2008 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony announces new studio heads for Europe, America]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/16/sony-announces-new-studio-heads-for-europe-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/16/sony-announces-new-studio-heads-for-europe-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/16/sony-announces-new-studio-heads-for-europe-america/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Sony continues to shuffle the upper-level management of their international studios. Gamasutra reports that the company has appointed Michael Denny (pictured) as the new senior vice president of Sony Worldwide Studios Europe, moving him from his former position as Sony Computer Entertainment Europe VP.

Sony has also promoted Scott Rohde, former Sony San Diego Studios senior director, to the position of vice president of Worldwide Studios America. Both Rohde and Denny will manage the internal studios for their regions.

These promotions follow last month's appointment of Shuhei Yoshida as president of Sony Computer Entertainment Worldwide, replacing Phil Harrison. GamesIndustry.biz has posted the first part of an interview with Yoshida, detailing the difficult task of filling Phil's shoes.

JoystiqSony announces new studio heads for Europe, America originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 16 Jun 2008 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking-newsbreakingnewsmichael-dennyPS3PSPscott-rohdeshuhei-yoshidasonyMon, 16 Jun 2008 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Trioxide brings 360, Wii, PS3 games to PC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/16/rumor-trioxide-brings-360-wii-ps3-games-to-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/16/rumor-trioxide-brings-360-wii-ps3-games-to-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/16/rumor-trioxide-brings-360-wii-ps3-games-to-pc/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Fancy playing your favorite console titles on PC? If our super-fountain of rumors turns out to be gushing truth, you may be able to do just that. Included in the lengthy list of leaks is a device called "Trioxide," which will reportedly allow users to use their home computers to play Wii, Xbox 360, and PlayStation 3 titles.

How exactly would this work? The brief blurb doesn't say, but our best guess is that Trioxide merely allows users to send video and audio signals from their console of choice to the PC for displaying. This theory is reinforced by the blurb, which states that any games played using Trioxide utilize their original game controllers, rather than the PC's keyboard or mouse.

Joystiq previously reviewed the Elgato EyeTV Hybrid (pictured above), a device that performs a very similar signal-display operation. Unlike the EyeTV, Trioxide would likely be designed strictly for game-playing, and would be optimized for low latency. It might not be the magic bullet people were hoping for, but Trioxide could still be a pretty sweet peripheral by our guesstimation.

JoystiqRumor: Trioxide brings 360, Wii, PS3 games to PC originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 16 Jun 2008 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>PCPS3rumortrioxideWiiXbox-360Mon, 16 Jun 2008 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Guitar Hero III DLC brings Kaiser Chiefs, Sex Pistols, Kasabian]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/guitar-hero-iii-dlc-brings-kaiser-chiefs-sex-pistols-kasabian/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/guitar-hero-iii-dlc-brings-kaiser-chiefs-sex-pistols-kasabian/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/guitar-hero-iii-dlc-brings-kaiser-chiefs-sex-pistols-kasabian/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Following the Motörhead set earlier this month, more Guitar Hero III downloadable content lands on the PS3 and Xbox 360 today, with the three-song Isle of Wight Track Pack now available on both consoles for purchase and download.

The pack features "Problems [live at Brixton] by The Sex Pistols, "Shoot the Runner" by Kasabian, and "I Predict a Riot" by Kaiser Chiefs. The set costs 500 Microsoft Points, or $6.25 USD on PS3. For a taste, check out the above video for Kasabian's "Shoot the Runner." It's kinda rockin'.

[Via X3F]

JoystiqGuitar Hero III DLC brings Kaiser Chiefs, Sex Pistols, Kasabian originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Jun 2008 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionactivision-blizzarddlcguitar-heroguitar-hero-3guitar-hero-iiiPS3Xbox-360Thu, 12 Jun 2008 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Meet the Team: Scott Jon Siegel]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/meet-the-team-scott-jon-siegel/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/meet-the-team-scott-jon-siegel/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/meet-the-team-scott-jon-siegel/#commentsFiled under:


In the world of professional game blogging, the people are represented by two separate, yet equally important groups: the bloggers who investigate the stories and readers who make silly comments. These are the first group's stories.
  • Name: Scott Jon Siegel
  • Job Position: Blogger / Columnist
  • Past Experience/Education: Four years as a Literature and Integrated Arts major at Bard College; Game Politics correspondent from way back in the day.
  • Live Outside of the 'Stiq: Just moved to San Francisco, following a six-month stint living it up in the South of France (Bonjour! Où est la bibliothèque?). When I'm not blogging, I'm designing games, and blogging some more. I'm also engaged to an awesome blogger. Imagine that!
  • Why I'm blogging: I like writing, I like video games, and I like paying my rent on time, so it made sense. I started as a columnist (Off the Grid's coming back soon, I swear), and graduated into a full-time blogging position once I got out of college.
  • First game experience: I really can't remember. Must've been so awesome it erased itself from my consciousness, lest I become incapacitated by its glory. Obviously.
  • Favorite games: Rez, Metroid II, Chrono Trigger, and basically everything in this photo.
  • What do you really look like? This, plus 16 years or so.
There's more to come every Tuesday and Thursday.

JoystiqMeet the Team: Scott Jon Siegel originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Jun 2008 20:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>meet-the-teammeet-the-team-08scott-jon-siegelThu, 12 Jun 2008 20:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Classic Media developing Turok film, not Disney]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/classic-media-developing-turok-film-not-disney/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/classic-media-developing-turok-film-not-disney/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/classic-media-developing-turok-film-not-disney/#commentsFiled under: ,


Variety reports that the live-action Turok movie is not being handled by Disney, which publishes the video game series through its Touchstone Pictures label. Instead, the film rights are being handled by Classic Media, the same IP management firm that handled the direct-to-DVD Turok animated film.

What does this mean for the dinosaur hunter's big-screen debut? Variety's Ben Fritz warns us that without the backing of a major studio like Disney, it's likely that Turok won't be on par with major film adaptations like the upcoming Prince of Persia and BioShock flicks. Let's just keep it out of the hands of Uwe Boll, shall we?

JoystiqClassic Media developing Turok film, not Disney originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Jun 2008 16:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>filmmoviesturokThu, 12 Jun 2008 16:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Scientists find red team is better than blue team (seriously)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/scientists-find-red-team-is-better-than-blue-team-seriously/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/scientists-find-red-team-is-better-than-blue-team-seriously/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/scientists-find-red-team-is-better-than-blue-team-seriously/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Finally. Proof that red team roolz. The scientific journal "Cyberpsychology & Behavior" has published the results of a research study, finding that over the course of 1,347 matches of Unreal Tournament 2004, the red team beat the blue team 55% of the time. Yes, this is actually what passes for science now.

One neuroscientist reasons that the slight red team advantage may be psychological, as the color red could prove distracting to men, "possibly because men flush and turn red when they're angry." As silly as that sounds, the study parallels a similar one performed in 2005, where it was found that wearing red in real-life one-on-one sporting events increased the likelihood of victory.

Acknowledging the findings of the research, Epic Games VP Mark Rein said they won't be changing the classic multiplayer colors of Unreal Tournament anytime soon. At least now you have an excuse for losing all the time, right blue team?

JoystiqScientists find red team is better than blue team (seriously) originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Jun 2008 15:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>PCresearchscienceunreal-tournament-2004ut2k4Thu, 12 Jun 2008 15:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo job posting hints at Wii USB devices]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/nintendo-job-posting-hints-at-wii-usb-devices/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/nintendo-job-posting-hints-at-wii-usb-devices/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/nintendo-job-posting-hints-at-wii-usb-devices/#commentsFiled under: ,


The two USB ports on the back of the Nintendo Wii don't get a whole lot of love, but that might be changing sometime in the near future. According to PC World, a recent posting on Nintendo's job board calls for a Software/Hardware Tester specializing in creating and executing "a test plan for Wii's USB devices."

We already know that Rock Band on the Wii will utilize a USB hub for its peripherals, but the job posting suggests even more USB devices might be enroute. These could include USB keyboards for future online games, or possibly even an eventual external storage solution (though Nintendo's recent disparaging comments on the matter make this unlikely).

[Via Engadget]

JoystiqNintendo job posting hints at Wii USB devices originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Jun 2008 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nintendousbWiiThu, 12 Jun 2008 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Turbine working on console MMO]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/11/turbine-working-on-console-mmo/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/11/turbine-working-on-console-mmo/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/11/turbine-working-on-console-mmo/#commentsFiled under: ,


Half-confirming earlier rumblings, Turbine has gone on record to state that they are actively developing a console-based MMO. It's not known at this time whether the title is, as rumored, a cross-platform console adaptation of Dungeons & Dragons Online, Lord of the Rings Online, or whether it is an entirely new title.

According to Turbine Communications Director Adam Mersky, the company intends to fill 100 new positions in 2008, with 60 slots already filled thus far this year. A significant investment from media giant Time Warner is largely the cause of this sudden growth, which proves promising for the MMO developer.

[Via Gamasutra]

JoystiqTurbine working on console MMO originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Jun 2008 22:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dnd-onlinedungeons-and-dragons-onlinelord-of-the-rings-onlinelotr-onlineturbineWed, 11 Jun 2008 22:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii storage for 'geeks and otaku', says Nintendo marketing director]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/11/wii-storage-for-geeks-and-otaku-says-nintendo-marketing-direc/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/11/wii-storage-for-geeks-and-otaku-says-nintendo-marketing-direc/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/11/wii-storage-for-geeks-and-otaku-says-nintendo-marketing-direc/#commentsFiled under: ,


As Nintendo's WiiWare service ramps up with new content added every week, avid Wii users are finding themselves burning through the console's paltry 512MB of internal memory quite quickly. So we find it a bit odd that Nintendo's European Marketing Director not only considers the issue unimportant, but thinks it wise to berate those concerned with it by calling them names.

Speaking to Edge Magazine, NOE Marketing Director Laurent Fischer was surprisingly dismissive of the growing space demands of WiiWare titles. According to him, only "geeks and otaku" want the issue actually addressed. Which just hurts.

If by "geeks and otaku," Mr. Fischer, you mean Nintendo's loyal fanbase who download every game released, then there may some truth in that. But calling them names certainly won't keep those "geeks and otaku" loyal for much longer.

JoystiqWii storage for 'geeks and otaku', says Nintendo marketing director originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Jun 2008 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>geeksnintendootakuWiiwiiwareWed, 11 Jun 2008 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mario Super Sluggers features new characters, super moves]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/11/mario-super-sluggers-features-new-characters-super-moves/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/11/mario-super-sluggers-features-new-characters-super-moves/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/11/mario-super-sluggers-features-new-characters-super-moves/#commentsFiled under: ,


Mario's baseball-oriented outing hasn't exactly been as hotly anticipated as his other platforming, racing, and fighting adventures. Perhaps that's the reason info on Mario Super Sluggers has been a bit slow since the first mild announcement last October. Those who do have a penchant for wacky sports titles will be elated at these few new details, courtesy of Siliconera.

According to their report, the game's cavalcade of Super Mario staples will each have their own unique batting and pitching powers. Mario swings away with a feisty fireball, while Yoshi pitches in an arching rainbow.

Tiny screens also reveal a number of less-than-obvious character additions, like the residents of Delfino Island, Dixie Kong, and... Goombas. If anyone knows how the armless baddies of Mushroom Kingdom are expected to either bat, throw, or catch, please let us know.

JoystiqMario Super Sluggers features new characters, super moves originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Jun 2008 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>baseballmario-super-sluggersnintendoWiiWed, 11 Jun 2008 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rejoice, PvPers: WoW Arena Season 4 starts June 24]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/rejoice-pvpers-wow-arena-season-4-starts-june-24/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/rejoice-pvpers-wow-arena-season-4-starts-june-24/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/rejoice-pvpers-wow-arena-season-4-starts-june-24/#commentsFiled under: ,


Warning: if you don't play World of Warcraft you might want to cover your ears. What you're about to hear will not make any sense, and will likely confuse and enrage you. If you do play WoW, then you might be very pleased to hear that Arena Season 4 is starting earlier than expected, reportedly kicking off June 24.

As always, Arena ratings will reset at the start of the new season, with Season 3 top teams and players earning their requisite titles, and top players receiving the coveted Armored Nether Drakes. Season 1 items will be gone for good, with Season 2 items being purchasable with Honor, and Season 3 gear receiving a drop in cost and rating requirements. These changes haven't gone into effect just yet, so WOW Insider recommends buying Season 1 gear now if you really really want it.

Okay. That's all the zany Warcraft techno-babble we have for now. You can uncover your ears, non-WoWers -- not that it did any good considering this is all text.

[Via WOW Insider]

JoystiqRejoice, PvPers: WoW Arena Season 4 starts June 24 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Jun 2008 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arenablizzardPCpvpworld-of-warcraftwowTue, 10 Jun 2008 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NVIDIA on the supposed 'death' of PC gaming ]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/nvidia-on-the-supposed-death-of-pc-gaming/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/nvidia-on-the-supposed-death-of-pc-gaming/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/nvidia-on-the-supposed-death-of-pc-gaming/#commentsFiled under: ,


NVIDIA's Roy Taylor doesn't believe PC gaming is dying, but he does believe it's changing. In a recent interview with Eurogamer, the Content Biz Dev VP discussed the growing effect console gaming has had on the PC market.

According to Taylor, consoles have become the "baseline" for game development; PC-exclusive titles are a thing of the past, and more and more titles make the transition from console to PC, as opposed to the other way around. Luckily, Taylor believes that PC versions of those titles we always be superior, and as the baseline console versions improve, so too will the PC ports. Good to know, then.

JoystiqNVIDIA on the supposed 'death' of PC gaming originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Jun 2008 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nvidiaPCTue, 10 Jun 2008 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[THQ questions value of 'girly games']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/thq-questions-value-of-girly-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/thq-questions-value-of-girly-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/thq-questions-value-of-girly-games/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Should mobile phone games cater to the gender lines? Not according to THQ Wireless marketing director James Scalpello, who believes developing mobile games for girls is a "lost cause."

Speaking to CasualGaming.biz, Scalpello explains his logic across two points. He believes that games targeted to female players are patronizing to the female gaming audience, while also stating that gaming's not a priority to most girls. Claiming that gaming's more important to male audiences, Scalpello states that "girls [believe they have] better things to do. If you say so, James.

[Via CVG]

JoystiqTHQ questions value of 'girly games' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Jun 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>girlsgirly-gamesMobilethqMon, 09 Jun 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[1C announces first console titles: Captain Blood and IL-2 Sturmovik]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/1c-announces-first-next-gen-titles/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/1c-announces-first-next-gen-titles/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/1c-announces-first-next-gen-titles/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Russia-based publisher 1C games has announced its first titles for "next-gen" (or what we're actually now calling "current-gen") consoles: Captain Blood and the less-catchily-titled IL-2 Sturmovik: Birds of Prey.

Captain Blood (pictured above) is an Xbox 360 and PC action game based on the Rafael Sabatini pirate novel of the same name. IL-2S:BoP, meanwhile, is being developed for Xbox 360 and PS3, with portable versions in development for DS and PSP (no Wii love, it seems).

No details on the gameplay or plot of Birds of Prey, but our deductive reasoning tells us it will likely be either about fighter planes, or predatory fowl. Guesses?

Joystiq1C announces first console titles: Captain Blood and IL-2 Sturmovik originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Jun 2008 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1c1c-companycaptain-bloodDSil-2-sturmovik-birds-of-preyPCPS3PSPXbox-360Mon, 09 Jun 2008 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[id ESA departure 'probably temporary, not political']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/id-esa-departure-probably-temporary-not-political/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/id-esa-departure-probably-temporary-not-political/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/id-esa-departure-probably-temporary-not-political/#commentsFiled under:


Developers and publishers have been jumping ship from the Entertainment Software Association as of late, without much justification for the departures. The Washington Post reports on possible reasons for this trend, and speaks to Doom developer id Software on why they, like so many others, have moved on from the ESA.

According to CEO Todd Hollenshead, id's departure is "probably temporary," and due to business priorities. Hollenshead reiterates that the ESA is a "credit to the industry." According to the Post, many companies might be concerned at the continued expense of maintaining ESA membership, no longer having the perks of "the spectacle of E3," to use analyst Michael Pachter's words.

The ESA itself, meanwhile, is nothing if not concerned at the growing trend, and what it means for the organization's stability.

Joystiqid ESA departure 'probably temporary, not political' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Jun 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>esaidMon, 09 Jun 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Spray transforms Wii-mote into grafitti spraycan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/07/wii-spray-transforms-wii-mote-into-grafitti-spraycan/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/07/wii-spray-transforms-wii-mote-into-grafitti-spraycan/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/07/wii-spray-transforms-wii-mote-into-grafitti-spraycan/#commentsFiled under: ,


We know what you're thinking, and this isn't it. Rather than being an awesome Jet Set Radio-style game where the Wii Remote functions as a spraycan, this is actually an equally awesome art project. A student at Bauhaus University in Germany modded a Wii-mote, putting the waggle-happy components in a spraycan for an interactive graffiti project.

According to SlashGear (because we don't speak German), the Wii Spray device allows users to virtually spray-paint walls -- presumably using some kind of sorcery. Neato, but we'd still like Jet Set Wii-dio, please (and we even figured out a name for it!).

[Via Engadget]

JoystiqWii Spray transforms Wii-mote into grafitti spraycan originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 07 Jun 2008 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artWiiwiispraySat, 07 Jun 2008 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tabula Rasa largely absent from NCSoft financial reports]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/06/tabula-rasa-largely-absent-from-ncsoft-financial-reports/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/06/tabula-rasa-largely-absent-from-ncsoft-financial-reports/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/06/tabula-rasa-largely-absent-from-ncsoft-financial-reports/#commentsFiled under: ,


Wherefore art thou, Tabula Rasa? Though we knew the title's been a bit slow to start, we were still a shocked when Richard Garriott's MMO was largely absent from publisher NCSoft's Q1 financial report. As Massively reports, the title appears only twice throughout the publicly accessible earnings report, and neither time in a particularly favorable light.

In a conference call following the release, CFO Lee Jae-Ho confirmed that the "Tabula Rasa operation" has not yet been profitable for NCSoft. This point, however, was only addressed during the Q&A session, and otherwise entirely ignored during Jae-Ho's formal presentation.

For those interested, Massively presents a more thorough breakdown of the financial standing of Tabula Rasa. We'll summarize here by saying "it ain't good."

JoystiqTabula Rasa largely absent from NCSoft financial reports originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Jun 2008 22:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ncsoftPCrichard-garriotttabula-rasaFri, 06 Jun 2008 22:15:00 EST<![CDATA[MGS4 PS3 bundle on Amazon.com tomorrow]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/mgs4-ps3-bundle-on-amazon-com-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/mgs4-ps3-bundle-on-amazon-com-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/mgs4-ps3-bundle-on-amazon-com-tomorrow/#commentsFiled under:


Interested in the 80GB Metal Gear Solid 4 PS3 bundle? It'll likely be hard to come by on June 12, so those worried about picking one up in person can try their luck online. Amazon.com will be pre-selling the North American branded console bundles tomorrow morning, so best rest up your refreshing finger, and get that credit card of yours good and ready.

Amazon will begin selling the bundles at 10am PST (or 1pm EST) on Friday, June 6. They expect to sell out quickly (duh), so get "there" early. Best of luck to you.

[Via PS3 Fanboy]

JoystiqMGS4 PS3 bundle on Amazon.com tomorrow originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Jun 2008 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>konamimetal-gear-solidmetal-gear-solid-4Metal-Gear-Solid-4-Guns-of-the-Patriotsmgsmgs4PS3Thu, 05 Jun 2008 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Itagaki's departure causes Tecmo stock plummet]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/itagakis-departure-causes-tecmo-stock-plummet/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/itagakis-departure-causes-tecmo-stock-plummet/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/itagakis-departure-causes-tecmo-stock-plummet/#commentsFiled under:


Turns out Tomonobu Itagaki's imminent lawsuit might not be Tecmo's biggest problem after all. Within two days of the Ninja Gaiden developer's abrupt resignation from the company, Tecmo shares on the Tokyo Stock Exchange dropped rapidly.

Assurances that Team Ninja would remain (largely) intact apparently did not appease the stockholders. Shares dropped over 10% from Tuesday's closing of ¥1,102 (USD 10.40), to today's closing of ¥982 (USD 9.30). Not a good start to the company's new Itagaki-less lifestyle, to be sure.

JoystiqItagaki's departure causes Tecmo stock plummet originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Jun 2008 17:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-or-aliveitagakininja-gaidenstocksteam-ninjatecmoThu, 05 Jun 2008 17:50:00 EST<![CDATA[BioShock ships over 2.2 million]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/bioshock-ships-over-2-2-million/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/bioshock-ships-over-2-2-million/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/bioshock-ships-over-2-2-million/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


No question: Take-Two lurves their BioShock baby. In an announcement today, the publisher revealed that, to date, BioShock has shipped over 2.2 million units across both the Xbox 360 and Games for Windows platforms. Not too shabby, eh?

It's clear that with this news, Take-Two's gearing up for BioShock mania. Combine strong sales with the recent announcement of BioShock on PS3, news of the Verbinski-directed BioShock film, and the inevitable BioShock 2 announcement from 2K Marin, and we're on the cusp of the next big franchise in gaming. Good thing or bad thing?

JoystiqBioShock ships over 2.2 million originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Jun 2008 16:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesbioshockbreakingnewsPCtake-twotake-two-interactiveXbox-360Thu, 05 Jun 2008 16:42:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE reactivates dead Everquest accounts with Living Legacy initiative]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/soe-reactivates-dead-everquest-accounts-with-living-legacy-initi/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/soe-reactivates-dead-everquest-accounts-with-living-legacy-initi/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/soe-reactivates-dead-everquest-accounts-with-living-legacy-initi/#commentsFiled under: ,

Have you played either Everquest or Everquest II any time in the last nine years? Even if you picked it up and put it down just as quickly, Sony Online Entertainment's giving your character a second lease on life, as it unveils the Living Legacy summer program. In an unprecedented move, SOE has reactivated every stagnant player account for two free months of access on both Everquest and its sequel. Yes, that's right. Every single account.

More than simply account resurrection, SOE is including EQ's expansions in these lapsed player accounts, as well as offering bonuses to help get older players up to speed. For more information on the ambitious campaign, check out Massively's interview with EQ senior producer Bruce Ferguson. So, who's headed to Norrath?

Source - SOE's Living Legacy campaign gives you 2 free months in EQ and EQ2 [Massively]

Source - Everquest II's senior producer on SOE's Living Legacy [Massively]

JoystiqSOE reactivates dead Everquest accounts with Living Legacy initiative originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Jun 2008 14:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EQ2everquestEverQuest-2MMOMMORPGPCSOESony-Online-EntertainmentThu, 05 Jun 2008 14:25:00 EST<![CDATA[HAWX gets voice control options]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/31/hawx-gets-voice-control-options/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/31/hawx-gets-voice-control-options/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/31/hawx-gets-voice-control-options/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Not to be outdone by EndWar's fancy gesture controls, Tom Clancy's HAWX will feature a voice control option, allowing you to squawk commands to your squad mid-dogfight.

Eurogamer learned of the feature during UbiDays, but was unable to get further clarification. According to Eurogamer, an Ubisoft representative also discussed the game's two-player cooperative mode, with a promise of more multiplayer details as the holiday 2008 release approaches. This is where we'd make Top Gun references if we knew any.

JoystiqHAWX gets voice control options originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 31 May 2008 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hawxPCPS3ubidays-2008ubisoftXbox-360Sat, 31 May 2008 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fancy new Fracture site announces October release date]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/30/fancy-new-fracture-site-announces-october-release-date/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/30/fancy-new-fracture-site-announces-october-release-date/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/30/fancy-new-fracture-site-announces-october-release-date/#commentsFiled under: , ,


LucasArts has updated the official website for their terrain-deforming third-person shooter Fracture. Now featuring a wide array of videos and other content, the site also proudly claims an October release date for the anticipated title.

The website offers videos demonstrating the range of terrain-deforming weapons, convincing us even more that Fracture is the true spiritual successor to the classic PC game Scorched Earth. LucasArts has also launched a community wiki for the game, presumably because the constantly changing landscape of the wiki echoes the constantly changing landscape of the-- nevermind.

JoystiqFancy new Fracture site announces October release date originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 May 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fracturelucasartsPS3Xbox-360Fri, 30 May 2008 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XI goes boxless]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/30/final-fantasy-xi-goes-boxless/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/30/final-fantasy-xi-goes-boxless/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/30/final-fantasy-xi-goes-boxless/#commentsFiled under: ,


"Boxes? Where we're going we don't need boxes!" So we presume the dialogue went, as Square Enix's MMO Final Fantasy XI eschewed its cardboard, real-world prison for digital distribution. The PC version of the title is still available in "old-school" format, though players can now download the title -- and all its expansions -- from Direct2Drive.

Final Fantasy XI and its expansions are being sold through Direct2Drive for $19.95 each. Instruction manuals are also available, which is super-nice of them.

[Via Massively]

JoystiqFinal Fantasy XI goes boxless originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 May 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-xiPCsquare-enixFri, 30 May 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Analysts predict console war outcome, fanboys riot in streets]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/30/analysts-predict-console-war-outcome-fanboys-riot-in-streets/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/30/analysts-predict-console-war-outcome-fanboys-riot-in-streets/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/30/analysts-predict-console-war-outcome-fanboys-riot-in-streets/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Over at GameDaily, analyst group DFC Intelligence has made a few observations regarding recent trends in the video game industry, and has a prediction for the result of the current-generation "console wars." According to DFC, the Nintendo Wii will ultimately secure its first place position, with the PS3 overtaking the Xbox 360 in 2009 for a strong second-place showing.

In terms of longevity, DFC believes that by 2012 the Playstation 3 will surpass the Wii in terms of software sales (no doubt assuming a staying power similar to the console's little brother, the PS2). They also predict that the slowed economy in North America will actually benefit video game sales, as high gas prices encourage consumers to stay home and play games, rather than going out. Several other interesting tidbits and predictions can be found in their full report.

JoystiqAnalysts predict console war outcome, fanboys riot in streets originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 May 2008 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>console-warsdfcdfc-intelligencefuturemicrosoftnintendopredictionsPS3sonyWiiXbox-360Fri, 30 May 2008 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Fit fit for two year olds, and other revelations]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/30/wii-fit-fit-for-two-year-olds-and-other-revelations/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/30/wii-fit-fit-for-two-year-olds-and-other-revelations/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/30/wii-fit-fit-for-two-year-olds-and-other-revelations/#commentsFiled under: ,


Perhaps avoiding the humiliation of getting back on the board himself, JC Fletcher over at Wii Fanboy has been throwing all sorts of crazy stuff on the Balance Board, and seeing how inanimate objects, and also a kitty, measure up.

What has he learned? For one, the latest year of birth possible in Wii Fit is 2006, and the shortest height is an astounding one foot, eight inches. This means that a two-year-old can actually play Wii Fit which is, if nothing else, creepy.

Also, Fletcher's bagless vacuum cleaner is sadly underweight, with a body mass index of 7.11. His cat, on the other hand, could stand to lose a few pounds (BMI of 21.5!), and has very poor balance. Check out the post for a few more fun experiments, such as how Wii Fit performs on Wii Fit. The mind boggles.

JoystiqWii Fit fit for two year olds, and other revelations originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 May 2008 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balance-boardfunnintendoWiiwii-fitFri, 30 May 2008 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect PC DLC right around the corner]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/29/mass-effect-pc-dlc-right-around-the-corner/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/29/mass-effect-pc-dlc-right-around-the-corner/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/29/mass-effect-pc-dlc-right-around-the-corner/#commentsFiled under:


Mass Effect PC players will soon have a chance to "Bring Down the Sky" (did you see what we did there?), as BioWare has announced that the free downloadable content will be available very soon for the PC version of the giant space epic.

The content -- available on the Xbox 360 since March -- includes a brand new uncharted world, and the inclusion of the ass-ugly Batarian race. And did we mention that it's free? That's incredibly good per-eyeball value.

JoystiqMass Effect PC DLC right around the corner originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 May 2008 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowaredlcmass-effectPCThu, 29 May 2008 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free DS Wi-Fi no more at McDonald's]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/29/free-ds-wi-fi-no-more-at-mcdonalds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/29/free-ds-wi-fi-no-more-at-mcdonalds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/29/free-ds-wi-fi-no-more-at-mcdonalds/#commentsFiled under: ,


Hey, remember when McDonald's and Nintendo teamed up to offer free Wi-Fi access for Nintendo DS players? No? Really? We thought it was kinda cool. Anyway, they're not doing it anymore, so just forget it.

The contract between Nintendo and Wayport -- the internet provider for McDonald's in North America -- actually came to an end late last year, though the termination of the agreement wasn't made well known. Well, now you know. DS-playing Mickey D's lovers can still get their fast food game on using a laptop and Nintendo's Wi-Fi dongle. Or, you know, not.

[Via DS Fanboy]

JoystiqFree DS Wi-Fi no more at McDonald's originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 May 2008 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSmcdonaldsnintendowi-fiThu, 29 May 2008 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 EndWar gets Minority Report-esque gesture controls]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/29/endwar-gets-minority-report-esque-gesture-controls/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/29/endwar-gets-minority-report-esque-gesture-controls/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/29/endwar-gets-minority-report-esque-gesture-controls/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Sorry, Johnny. It seems like Ubisoft Shanghai might have beaten you to the punch with gesture controls in video games. According to Eurogamer, the team has integrated gesture-activated commands into the RTS Tom Clancy's EndWar.

Using the Playstation Eye, the PS3 version of the game will allow players to wave their hands underneath the camera to navigate the game's overhead map. The feature is currently only being developed for the PS3 version, as the 360's Vision Camera lacks the stand to hold the camera vertically.

Of course, like head tracking in Boom Blox, this somewhat ancillary feature might not make the final cut of the game. We'll keep our fingers crossed (and moving in a counter-clockwise circle, which is how our own fancy gesture control system knows we're being sincere).

JoystiqPS3 EndWar gets Minority Report-esque gesture controls originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 May 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>endwarplaystation-eyePS3tom-clancys-endwarubisoftThu, 29 May 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wario Land Shake to feature 2D platforming action]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/29/wario-land-shake-details-reveal-2d-platforming-action/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/29/wario-land-shake-details-reveal-2d-platforming-action/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/29/wario-land-shake-details-reveal-2d-platforming-action/#commentsFiled under: ,


Wario Land fans won't have to worry about their oft-forgotten favorite platformer making an awkward transition to 3D. Wario Land Shake, first revealed yesterday, will feature old-school 2D platforming flavor, akin to Super Paper Mario's better moments.

A Japanese fact sheet -- lovingly translated by the NeoGAF community -- describes the gameplay as being largely 2D, with hand-drawn animation and backgrounds, and the requisite Wiimote waggling interactivity (hence the "Shake," we presume). According to the fact sheet (and according to NeoGAF), the game is slated for a 2008 release. You know, for now.

[Via Nintendo Wii Fanboy]

JoystiqWario Land Shake to feature 2D platforming action originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 May 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nintendowario-landwario-land-shakeWiiThu, 29 May 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Scrollbar does potion shots with Final Fantasy night]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/28/scrollbar-does-potion-shots-with-final-fantasy-night/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/28/scrollbar-does-potion-shots-with-final-fantasy-night/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/28/scrollbar-does-potion-shots-with-final-fantasy-night/#commentsFiled under: ,


We're quickly becoming big fans of Scrollbar, an excellent pub with an excellent name, located near the IT University of Copenhagen in Denmark. They previously entranced us with their Mario theme night, and have now blown us away with their evening of Final Fantasy, complete with cosplay and custom drinks.

What were they serving? A green lemon-lime concoction called a Life Stream, a "virgin" red drink called the Aerith (LOL), and an adorable pink sweet concoction called a Moogle. Shots included a devilish One Winged Angel (aka Sephiroth), and a Phoenix Down, for the hardiest of battles. All ingredients and directions can be found on their site (but please drink responsibly, folks; those Phoenix Downs don't actually work).

[Thanks, Mike K.]

JoystiqScrollbar does potion shots with Final Fantasy night originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 May 2008 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alcoholdrinkingfinal-fantasypartyscrollbarWed, 28 May 2008 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Harrison elaborates on the future of single-player games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/28/harrison-elaborates-on-the-future-of-single-player-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/28/harrison-elaborates-on-the-future-of-single-player-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/28/harrison-elaborates-on-the-future-of-single-player-games/#commentsFiled under:


Infogrames president Phil Harrison made some eyebrow-raising comments last week, claiming that following Alone in the Dark, his company would move away from "huge-budget, single-player games." Speaking to videogaming247, Harrison went into more detail on what he described as not just a shift in direction for Infogrames, but for the entire industry as well.

While suggesting once again that Infogrames will be moving away from single-player console titles, Harrison elaborates that those games will still have a place in the market, but will have to begin integrating connectivity and non-linearity to survive. We'll have to see if there's any truth in these sooth-saying words.

JoystiqHarrison elaborates on the future of single-player games originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 May 2008 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alone-in-the-darkatariinfogramesphil-harrisonWed, 28 May 2008 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rock Band saves marriage]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/27/rock-band-saves-marriage/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/27/rock-band-saves-marriage/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/27/rock-band-saves-marriage/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Call us sappy saps, but we can't get enough of video game success stories -- failing relationships resurrected through the power of gaming. Okay, so it doesn't really happen that often, but when it does it melts our cold, robotic blogging hearts.

Over at Salon, Rachel Shukert explains how Harmonix's Rock Band allowed her to relate to her husband's video game obsession, rekindle her lost desire for rock stardom, and quite literally save their marriage. It's a short story about the best kind of escapism -- the kind you share with someone else -- and it doesn't hurt that it's about one of our own favorite obsessions. We wonder what else Rock Band can save.

[Thanks, Justin M.]

JoystiqRock Band saves marriage originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 May 2008 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>harmonixlovemarriagePS3rock-bandsalonXbox-360Tue, 27 May 2008 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: RBI Baseball swings to XBLA]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/27/rumor-rbi-baseball-swings-to-xbla/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/27/rumor-rbi-baseball-swings-to-xbla/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/27/rumor-rbi-baseball-swings-to-xbla/#commentsFiled under: , ,


We might as well have called this post "create your own baseball-pun headline!" An update to the ESRB website suggests that the classic Tengen baseball game R.B.I. Baseball might be coming to Xbox Live Arcade in the near future, delighting retro sports gaming fans everywhere.

R.B.I. was a MLB-branded game on the Nintendo Entertainment System, first released in 1988. Still notably absent from the Wii's Virtual Console service, the game is being developed by new studio Six Degrees Games, according to the ESRB. We're personally thrilled to see classic sports titled revamped for XBLA, and would love to see even more. Blades of Steel, anyone?

JoystiqRumor: RBI Baseball swings to XBLA originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 May 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>rbi-baseballsix-degrees-gamesxblaXbox-360Tue, 27 May 2008 19:00:00 EST