Joystiq [PlayStation] http://playstation.joystiq.com Joystiq [PlayStation] http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://playstation.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq [PlayStation] http://playstation.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2010 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Mad Catz reveals teased Super Street Fighter IV accessories]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/mad-catz-reveals-teased-super-street-fighter-iv-accessories/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/mad-catz-reveals-teased-super-street-fighter-iv-accessories/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/mad-catz-reveals-teased-super-street-fighter-iv-accessories/#comments After teasing us with half an image last night, Mad Catz and Capcom have announced a new "Tournament Edition" arcade stick is in development, branded with new art featuring Super Street Fighter IV. The stick will be made available in two flavors (check them out below!) for the Xbox 360 and PS3. Alongside the "Tournament Edition S" sticks, Mad Catz "anticipates" releasing four new FightPads for consoles, branded with new art. Considering the supply and demand issues the original batch of controllers saw, we "anticipate" Mad Catz will flood the market with the new batch of peripherals.

Unfortunately, Capcom recently pulled Super Street Fighter IV from its Q1 release window; however, we can only presume the controllers will be made available within the same time frame as the game itself. When we pried a Mad Catz rep for a release window on the new controllers they would only confirm it's slated for a release this spring. Hopefully that means we'll get our hands on both items in time to shield us from the April showers.

JoystiqMad Catz reveals teased Super Street Fighter IV accessories originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Jan 2010 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcade-stickcapcomcontrollersmad-catzperipheralsstreet-fighterstreet-fighter-ivsuper-street-fighter-ivThu, 07 Jan 2010 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Interview: Glen Schofield on Dead Space, Sledgehammer Games and the transition from EA to Activision]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/interview-glen-schofield-on-dead-space-sledgehammer-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/interview-glen-schofield-on-dead-space-sledgehammer-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/interview-glen-schofield-on-dead-space-sledgehammer-games/#comments We don't have to tell you who Glen Schofield is. The guy's been cementing his name in the industry for years now, and considering his recent realignment from EA's banner to Activision's, starting a new studio in Sledgehammer Games, we all have a lot of questions. Let's get to it:

You were one of the individuals most responsible for bringing Dead Space to fruition -- one of Joystiq's best games of 2008. How difficult an endeavor was conceptualizing that game, and how willing -- in the way of providing resources -- was EA to create the game?

Dead Space was an idea I wanted to pursue for quite a few years while at EA. I brought the idea to the previous president when I believed the window was right for the game to fit within EA's portfolio. At the time, EA was largely leveraging licensed IPs, and getting support for a new IP concept was tough. I really appreciated the opportunity he gave us. Fortunately, we had a passionate team of developers who poured a ton of energy into converting our skeptics into believers. In the end, the critical response by fans and the press is something myself and the entire team are very proud of.

Visceral Games (formerly EA Redwood Shores) is still an EA studio, currently wrapping up Dante's Inferno. When you began Dead Space, Game Informer #174 -- the official unveiling -- called you guys a "renegade team." Who was on that team, and how did you earn that "renegade" status?

Continue reading Interview: Glen Schofield on Dead Space, Sledgehammer Games and the transition from EA to Activision

JoystiqInterview: Glen Schofield on Dead Space, Sledgehammer Games and the transition from EA to Activision originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Jan 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisioneaglen-schofieldinterviewsledgehammersledgehammer-gamesvisceralvisceral-gamesThu, 07 Jan 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOCOM Fireteam Bravo 3 deployed February 16]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/socom-fireteam-bravo-3-deployed-february-16/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/socom-fireteam-bravo-3-deployed-february-16/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/socom-fireteam-bravo-3-deployed-february-16/#comments Hopefully, the third time is the charm for SOCOM Fireteam Bravo. After two delays, the Slant Six-developed co-op shooter is finally making its way to PSP on February 16 on both UMD and PlayStation Network.

As per usual, online multiplayer is central to the upcoming SOCOM sequel. Fireteam Bravo 3 will not only support sixteen player Infrastructure play, it also features four-player co-op -- a first for the franchise. Considering Slant Six's track record, it'll either play like the brilliant SOCOM Tactical Strike ... or like SOCOM Confrontation.

JoystiqSOCOM Fireteam Bravo 3 deployed February 16 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Jan 2010 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>psnrelease-dateslant-sixsocomsocom-fireteam-bravo-3umdThu, 07 Jan 2010 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dragon Age: Awakening expansion detailed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/dragon-age-awakening-explansion-detailed/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/dragon-age-awakening-explansion-detailed/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/dragon-age-awakening-explansion-detailed/#comments This March, fans of Bioware's epic RPG, Dragon Age: Origins, will be able to extend the experience through 'Awakening,' the hefty retail expansion bearing an equally hefty $40 price tag. While the new trailer coinciding with the announcement was gripping in its own right, many gamers are likely wondering what is deserving of so much coin. Sure, we know it takes place after Origins, we know players will be fighting new Darkspawn baddies and we know there's new items and a raised level cap, but what else should gamers look forward to spending another gazillion hours on?

Well, in a recent interview with IGN, Bioware's Fernando Melo put it all on the line. Basically, the Darkspawn haven't retreated underground after Origins' Blight -- as was the case following previous Blights -- and in the land of Amaranthine, one Darkspawn in particular has evolved to the point where it can talk and reason: the Architect. And if you haven't played through Origins at all and have no character to import, you'll have the option to create a new one that will automatically be placed somewhere between level 17 and 20, around the toughness of Awakening's roster of bad guys.

Then there's the raised level cap. Melo couldn't confirm where it would be when Awakening releases in March, but said it will "probably end up in the mid to high 30s." Also, you'll gain access to a bunch of new followers, complete with all-new banter and micro-managing. This will have a greater affect on imported characters, as Melo says a lot of the choices you've made in Origins carry over and, depending on what point you're currently at in the main game, characters will act accordingly. And if you choose to play Awakening first, decisions there will transfer back to Origins in the same way.

Melo even detailed a bit of the "re-spec" ability you'll have in Awakening. You'll be able to force a reboot of your character's skill points through a tome, allowing you to retain whatever level your Origins character is at, but have a fresh start in terms of where you want to place your points. Obviously, if you choose not to import a character, this feature is moot because you'd be spending all of the points you'll get from starting at the high level Awakening begins.

It's a lot to process and IGN's interview is three very lengthy pages, so if you want to read the rest, head on over and check it out. Just beware of spoilers.

JoystiqDragon Age: Awakening expansion detailed originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Jan 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>awakeningbiowaredragon-agedragon-age-originsdragon-age-origins-awakeningearpgThu, 07 Jan 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Red Bull expands Home space with 'Flugtag' flying machine challenge]]>http://playstation.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/red-bull-expands-home-space-with-flugtag-flying-machine-challe/http://playstation.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/red-bull-expands-home-space-with-flugtag-flying-machine-challe/http://playstation.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/red-bull-expands-home-space-with-flugtag-flying-machine-challe/#comments
PlayStation Home's first branded space, Red Bull Beach, has added two new ... wings, if you will. The energy drink maker launched its Home presence with the Red Bull Air Race mini-game (and the unofficial "wait in line and spam 'X' to play" companion challenge) -- the new Flugtag (German for "flying day") mini-game trades high-performance stunt planes for human-powered contraptions taken from its annual "will it fly?" themed event.

The goal: Grab one of several "flying machines" -- try a banjo with wings, or, say, a completely counter-aerodynamic "flying pig" -- and attempt to glide as far as possible off of the space's launch structure. It's definitely ... interesting. So is the space's other new addition: the Red Bull illume exhibit, a virtual re-creation of a real-world art installation which features adventure sports photos projected onto the faces of translucent cubes. It's art, only ... extreme!

Joystiq PlaystationRed Bull expands Home space with 'Flugtag' flying machine challenge originally appeared on Joystiq Playstation on Thu, 07 Jan 2010 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>flugtaghomeplaystation-homeRed-BullThu, 07 Jan 2010 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Darksiders to never see the light in the UAE, kept 'under the table']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/darksiders-to-never-see-the-light-in-the-uae/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/darksiders-to-never-see-the-light-in-the-uae/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/darksiders-to-never-see-the-light-in-the-uae/#comments With little explanation offered (alright, so, basically no explanation whatsoever), the United Arab Emirate states have reportedly banned the distribution and sale of THQ and Vigil's Darksiders: Wrath of War. According to UAE-based GamesLatest, the game was deemed to "contradict with the UAE's customs and traditions" -- a standard phrase used to near-universally describe banned games in the Middle Eastern states.

Unfortunately, that task of enforcing such a ban can be a mighty difficult one. Many retailers in the UAE simply order from wholesalers, bypassing importing laws altogether, and sell their games under the table (and untaxed, might we add). And then, of course, there's always the internet -- we hear you can buy stuff through it.

[Via GamePolitics]

JoystiqReport: Darksiders to never see the light in the UAE, kept 'under the table' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Jan 2010 13:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandarksidersdarksiders-wrath-of-warthquaeunited-arab-emiratesvigilvigil-gamesThu, 07 Jan 2010 13:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Valkyria Chronicles' Isara playable in sequel]]>http://playstation.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/valkyria-chronicles-isara-playable-in-sequel/http://playstation.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/valkyria-chronicles-isara-playable-in-sequel/http://playstation.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/valkyria-chronicles-isara-playable-in-sequel/#comments Valkyria Chronicles 2 will apparently have a playable version of Isara, the original game's protagonist's little sister, for those who have a save file of the first game. AndriaSang reports, VC2 owners without the save file can pick up Isara through a password that will be posted on the game's website at a later date. The odd alternate universe of playable characters doesn't end there, as passwords to access Faldio Landzaat and Maximilian will be posted on February 4 and 18, respectively.

Fans of the first game should understand how inconceivable this crossover feature is in the context of the gameworld, but don't take the additions of these characters as canon. We're not exactly sure how the bonus characters will fit in, but we're assuming their appearances are just fan service.

Valkyria Chronicles 2 will be released later this month in Japan, and then this summer in America and Europe.

Joystiq PlaystationValkyria Chronicles' Isara playable in sequel originally appeared on Joystiq Playstation on Thu, 07 Jan 2010 12:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>isarasegavalkyriavalkyria-chroniclesvalkyria-chronicles-2Thu, 07 Jan 2010 12:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Nyko reveals Wii Wand with built-in MotionPlus, more at CES]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/nyko-reveals-wii-wand-with-built-in-motionplus-more-at-ces/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/nyko-reveals-wii-wand-with-built-in-motionplus-more-at-ces/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/nyko-reveals-wii-wand-with-built-in-motionplus-more-at-ces/#comments
Last year at CES, Nyko unveiled the Wand, its take on Nintendo's Wiimote. This year, the peripheral maker's big item is ... abracadabra ... the Wand -- with one exciting addition! The $40 Wand+ is a single, self-contained unit that includes MotionPlus compatibility. The device still supports the crazy Trans-Port stuff, like the original Wand does, which means that Wiimote buttons can be automatically remapped to buttons on other Nyko accessories, including its gun controller.

Nyko has also introduced two variants of its cookie-inspiring Charge Base IC remote charger: a version of the original in black and a new one that can accommodate four Wiimotes.

For PS3, the company has designed a new version of its Intercooler made to bulk up Sony's Slim model, and the Media Hub Slim, a combination of a tiny remote control and a USB hub.

The Wand and Charge Base Quad IC are due in stores this March. The Intercooler will be available next month for $19.99, and the Media Hub Slim will retail for $19.99 when it's released in April.

JoystiqNyko reveals Wii Wand with built-in MotionPlus, more at CES originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Jan 2010 10:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ces-2010charge-base-iccharge-base-quad-icintercoolerintercooler-slimmedia-hubmedia-hub-slimmotionplusnykonyko-wandwand-plusThu, 07 Jan 2010 10:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Atlus uses the Hexyz Force on PSP]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/hexyz-force-psp-rpg/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/hexyz-force-psp-rpg/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/hexyz-force-psp-rpg/#comments Atlus sure does love the PSP, announcing two games for Sony's handheld in just as many days. Hexyz Force is a new RPG from Sting, creator of Riviera: The Promised Land and Yggdra Union. This classically-styled JRPG features two different adventures, each about (what else?) the end of the world. Atlus promises each adventure will take about 25 hours, totaling 50 hours of dungeon crawling and grinding for RPG fans.

PSP owners are all too familiar with the lengthy load times for many of the system's RPGs. Thankfully, Atlus is promising "virtually no load times" for Hexyz Force. Like a console JRPG, the game will also feature twenty minutes of anime cutscenes. The UMD version is scheduled for release on May 25th, while a PSN version should follow shortly thereafter. Check out a video preview after the break.

Continue reading Atlus uses the Hexyz Force on PSP

JoystiqAtlus uses the Hexyz Force on PSP originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Jan 2010 05:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Atlushexyz-forceJRPGPSNstingThu, 07 Jan 2010 05:45:00 EST<![CDATA[More Dynasty Warriors Strikeforce media than you can shake a Dragon Sword at]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/more-dynasty-warriors-strikeforce-media-than-you-can-shake-a-dra/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/more-dynasty-warriors-strikeforce-media-than-you-can-shake-a-dra/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/more-dynasty-warriors-strikeforce-media-than-you-can-shake-a-dra/#commentsIf you only play games with Ryu Hayabusa in them, then Dynasty Warriors: Strikeforce is likely to be your first experience with Koei's historical-ish brawler franchise. If you only play games with the ancient Chinese ruler Fu Xi in them, however, you're likely to be much better versed in the series. In either case, there's a Strikeforce for you: as reported, Fu Xi (and other characters from the Warriors Orochi series) appear in the Xbox 360 version, and Ryu in the PS3 version, both with exclusive missions that grant you the use of their "signature weapon" when completed.

New galleries give you a look at Fu Xi and the extra-beefy crossover ninja. And a new trailer (above) does what it can to get you pumped about Strikeforce, the Dynasty Warriors game with not only characters from other franchises, but giant tigers in it!


JoystiqMore Dynasty Warriors Strikeforce media than you can shake a Dragon Sword at originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Jan 2010 02:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dynasty-warriorsdynasty-warriors-strikeforcekoeininja-gaidenwarriors-orochiThu, 07 Jan 2010 02:45:00 EST<![CDATA[The Army of Two infiltrates GameStop]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/the-army-of-two-infiltrate-gamestop/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/the-army-of-two-infiltrate-gamestop/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/the-army-of-two-infiltrate-gamestop/#comments Army of Two: The 40th Day's Salem and Rios are no strangers to the modern world. Sure, they may have acted a bit ... out of place during previous visits to EA Montreal and EA Headquarters, but that doesn't mean they're not fit for retail life. Take, for instance, the video above of the two trying their best to lend a hand to the fine folks at GameStop.

They might be a bit rough around the edges, but that doesn't mean that they didn't get the most magazine upsells for the month of December (they did!) or that they aren't capable of re-alphabetizing the used PS2 section six or seven hundred times a day (they are!). Give them a chance, folks. Under the inhuman terror mask and bullet-proof chest padding beats the heart of a human being.

JoystiqThe Army of Two infiltrates GameStop originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Jan 2010 01:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisementarmy-of-twoarmy-of-two-the-40th-dayeaea-montrealgamestoplive-actionsalem-and-riosThu, 07 Jan 2010 01:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony PlayStation 3 sales 'exceed 3.8 million' worldwide over the holidays]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/sony-playstation-3-sales-exceed-3-8-million-worldwide-over-the/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/sony-playstation-3-sales-exceed-3-8-million-worldwide-over-the/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/sony-playstation-3-sales-exceed-3-8-million-worldwide-over-the/#comments On the heels of its CES 2010 keynote speech, Sony released a chest-pounding press release declaring worldwide sales "exceeding 3.8 million" of the PlayStation 3 during the 2009 holiday season. According to the company, "during the five weeks following the last week of November 2009" (ending on January 3, 2010), the console sold more than during any previous holiday season -- a 76 percent increase over last year's numbers.

Alas, the PSP and the PSP Go were neglected a mention in the presser, though Sony did reiterate the 38 million PSN user number we'd heard a bit earlier. We'll have a clearer picture of what exactly the sales shook out to for North America when the latest NPD numbers arrive next week.

JoystiqSony PlayStation 3 sales 'exceed 3.8 million' worldwide over the holidays originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jan 2010 23:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cesces-2010holiday-2009holiday-salesplaystation-networkpsnpsp-gosalessonyWed, 06 Jan 2010 23:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Capcom teases Super version of SFIV Tournament Edition joystick [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/capcom-teases-super-version-of-sfiv-tournament-edition-joystick/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/capcom-teases-super-version-of-sfiv-tournament-edition-joystick/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/capcom-teases-super-version-of-sfiv-tournament-edition-joystick/#comments
click to embiggen
Update: Capcom's Twitter feed got a bit more informationey later on this evening, showing off the Capcom suite at CES, complete with "new hotness from Mad Catz." Though the shot is significantly more blurry, it certainly seems to indicate a new arcade stick coming from Mad Catz for Super Street Fighter IV.

Considering the Consumer Electronics Show is happening right this minute in Las Vegas, it's no surprise that Capcom's Twitter account is busy teasing pictures of yet-to-be-revealed arcade sticks for the upcoming sorta-sequel Super Street Fighter IV. As you can see in the image above, an inky outline of Ryu overlooks a more colorful button set than the previous game's stick. Additionally, the shape of the controller's box certainly bears a striking resemblance to the Street Fighter IV Tournament Edition joysticks from Mad Catz that were in such short supply last year. We've followed up with Capcom but were told there's no official comment just yet.

JoystiqCapcom teases Super version of SFIV Tournament Edition joystick [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jan 2010 22:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcom-unitycesces-2010mad-catzmadcatzstreet-fighterstreet-fighter-ivsuper-street-fighter-ivtwitterWed, 06 Jan 2010 22:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony confirms expansion of PlayStation Network ID, wallet to other Sony devices]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/sony-confirms-expansion-of-playstation-network-id-wallet-to-oth/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/sony-confirms-expansion-of-playstation-network-id-wallet-to-oth/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/sony-confirms-expansion-of-playstation-network-id-wallet-to-oth/#comments Chances are you represent one (or 12) members of the 38 million-strong PlayStation Network community. At CES in Las Vegas, Kaz Hirai confirmed Sony's intention to expand the PSN well beyond the PS3 and PSP. As the above slide shows, Sony's premium video offerings will expand to some of Sony's other products, including Bravia televisions and VAIO laptops. Taking a page from Microsoft's Live Anywhere philosophy, a single user ID and password will work across all Sony products and services. Going a step further, the PSN virtual wallet can be used universally across Sony's services.

To help facilitate the cross-proliferation of content across Sony's multiple devices, Hirai also announced the creation of a new division within Sony: the not-very-creatively named Sony Network Entertainment, Inc. With this new initiative, expect the PSN logo to be far more ubiquitous than ever before.

JoystiqSony confirms expansion of PlayStation Network ID, wallet to other Sony devices originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jan 2010 20:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ces-2010ces2010kaz-hiraiplaystation-networkpsnsonyWed, 06 Jan 2010 20:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Activision: Marvel: Ultimate Alliance 2 DLC on PSN was a 'limited time offer']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/activision-marvel-ultimate-alliance-2-dlc-on-psn-was-a-limite/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/activision-marvel-ultimate-alliance-2-dlc-on-psn-was-a-limite/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/activision-marvel-ultimate-alliance-2-dlc-on-psn-was-a-limite/#comments Last week, PSN users found that the DLC for Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2 -- items that included new characters such as Carnage, Psylocke and Cable -- went missing from the PSN Store. Well, after navigating the intricate web of Activision PR, Joystiq can now confirm the DLC simply expired at the end of last year. An Activision rep told us: "The Marvel: Ultimate Alliance Downloadable Content was a limited time offer, expiring on December 31, 2009."

Sorry, PSN users -- if you managed to snag the content already, have fun. For the rest of you would-be heroes and villains, looks like you're out of luck, because the DLC isn't coming back.

JoystiqActivision: Marvel: Ultimate Alliance 2 DLC on PSN was a 'limited time offer' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jan 2010 20:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisiondlcmarvelmarvel-ultimate-allianceMarvel-Ultimate-Alliance-2mua2psnWed, 06 Jan 2010 20:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Capcom France head wary of Wii, says 2010 will be a 'difficult year' for DS and PSP]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/capcom-france-head-wary-of-wii-says-2010-will-be-a-difficult-y/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/capcom-france-head-wary-of-wii-says-2010-will-be-a-difficult-y/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/capcom-france-head-wary-of-wii-says-2010-will-be-a-difficult-y/#comments Though we've yet to see official numbers on November's Resident Evil: The Darkside Chronicles, Capcom France head Antoine Seux told Gamekult in a recent interview that sales of the game were "below what we had hoped." The English translation of the interview indicates that just 16,000 units were sold worldwide as of December 23, something that has Seux feeling "concerned" as Capcom continues to develop for Nintendo's consoles.

"Indeed, the Wii is becoming complex," he says. Seux believes that high-profile games like Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games and New Super Mario Bros. Wii -- games that were "strongly supported" by "massive advertising campaigns" -- are the only ones that stand a chance. "For us, Capcom, the future is the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360," he finishes up with, couching that in his belief that "This will be a difficult year for the handheld in general, DS or PSP." Perhaps he's been borrowing Pachter's sorcery ball?

[Via Nintendo Everything]

JoystiqCapcom France head wary of Wii, says 2010 will be a 'difficult year' for DS and PSP originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jan 2010 19:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antoine-seuxcapcomcapcom-francemario-and-sonic-at-the-olympic-gamesnew-super-mario-bros-wiiresident-evilresident-evil-the-darkside-chroniclesWed, 06 Jan 2010 19:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony 2010 CES press conference, live at Engadget]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/sony-2010-ces-press-conference-live-at-engadget/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/sony-2010-ces-press-conference-live-at-engadget/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/sony-2010-ces-press-conference-live-at-engadget/#comments While we're camped out right next to them, we won't be liveblogging the entirety of Sony's mostly-not-game-related 2010 CES press conference - we'll leave that duty in the capable hands of our friends at Engadget. Head over there to follow along minute by minute or stick around at the 'stiq while we break off just the tastiest bits of gaming news for you here (spoiler alert: There will be discussion of 3D gaming, if Sony's booth is any indication). Either way, you're the big winner.

Engadget - Live from Sony's CES 2010 press event

JoystiqSony 2010 CES press conference, live at Engadget originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jan 2010 19:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CESCES-2010pspSonyWed, 06 Jan 2010 19:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Pachter predicts 'solid' holiday for GameStop, industry sales 'rebound' in 2010]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/pachter-predicts-solid-holiday-for-gamestop-industry-sales-r/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/pachter-predicts-solid-holiday-for-gamestop-industry-sales-r/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/pachter-predicts-solid-holiday-for-gamestop-industry-sales-r/#comments In a recent sales projection sent to Joystiq centering around GameStop, everyone's favorite games analyst, Michael Pachter, offered some viewpoints on December sales for GameStop, taking care to also paint his own portrait on industry sales as a whole for 2010. He points to Modern Warfare 2 and hardware sales (thanks, price drops!) as top earners for GameStop.

Pachter is hopeful for 2010, expecting a full-on rebound in game sales starting January. He points to the great exodus of fourth quarter 2009 as a factor behind the increased game sales, with first quarter releases of Bioshock 2, Splinter Cell: Conviction and Army of Two: The 40th Day mentioned as expected top earners. He says this uptick in sales will benefit GameStop, which he surmises will have about 30 percent share of the software market in January -- something that will insulate against what he expects to be a year of gradual decline in Wii hardware sales.

JoystiqPachter predicts 'solid' holiday for GameStop, industry sales 'rebound' in 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jan 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analystgamestopmichael-pachtersales-analysisWed, 06 Jan 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSN survey hints at upcoming subscription-based features]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/psn-survey-hints-at-upcoming-subscription-based-features/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/psn-survey-hints-at-upcoming-subscription-based-features/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/psn-survey-hints-at-upcoming-subscription-based-features/#comments Sony's European team has sent out a survey to some of its UK PSN members asking them yet again about possible subscription models for the service. The survey is run by a market research company called Ipsos, and appears to offer up a list of possible member benefits for a few different plan tiers, along with pricing for each. The benefits range from more tame ideas like exclusive and early access to content to more interesting options like "free title trials" (first hour of a game for free), user-to-user challenges, "token wagering" and a service called "catch-up TV." Oh, and since it's Sony we're talking about, there's even a listed option for "cloud storage space for games." You can find the full list of possible features after the jump.

The price options differ from plan to plan, but they go as cheap as £2.99 (about $5 U.S.) up to £14.99 (about $25) for monthly fees, with annual fees also listed for 55% less than you'd pay month to month (so around £19.99 up to £99.99, or $32 to $160). Note that just because all of these things are on a survey doesn't mean that Sony has them up and running -- it only means that they're testing the water in terms of what UK members are willing to pay for certain features. But you can just add this to the growing mountain of evidence that Sony is planning some sort of premium subscription service.

[Thanks Marc and everyone who sent this in!]

Continue reading PSN survey hints at upcoming subscription-based features

JoystiqPSN survey hints at upcoming subscription-based features originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jan 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cloud-storageeuropeanevidencefeaturesfree-title-trialsgamesipsosmarketingnetworkpoundspricingpsnresearchsceeservicesonysubscriptiontiersukWed, 06 Jan 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: No Heavy Rain Collector's Edition for US]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/report-no-heavy-rain-collectors-edition-for-u-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/report-no-heavy-rain-collectors-edition-for-u-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/report-no-heavy-rain-collectors-edition-for-u-s/#comments
 U.S. gamers looking to get their grubby mitts on that ridiculously ornate version of Heavy Rain won't, it turns out. One of SCEA's reps confirmed to VG247 that the pricier version won't make the trip across the pond. We're so sorry to upset you with this news, but feel quite fine saving your wallet's soul: money.

Sadly, SCEA wasn't willing to offer anything on a U.S. release date for the game proper, something we've all been waiting on since retailers pointed to potential Japanese and European release dates. Come on, guys! Throw us a bone we can actually chew on here!

JoystiqReport: No Heavy Rain Collector's Edition for US originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jan 2010 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>collectors-editionheavy-rainquantic-dreamsceaWed, 06 Jan 2010 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation Home catches a fishing game]]>http://playstation.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/playstation-home-catches-a-fishing-game/http://playstation.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/playstation-home-catches-a-fishing-game/http://playstation.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/playstation-home-catches-a-fishing-game/#comments Want to experience the excitement of sitting around all day? You're in luck! PlayStation Home is getting a brand new fishing mini-game in an upcoming premium personal space. The Waterfall Terrace, available this Thursday in the Estates store of the Home Mall, boasts a waterfall and an eternal sunset, as envisioned by Phil Harrison. Using various lures, you'll be able to reel in a variety of fish, all of which will appear on the walls of your virtual apartment.

Check out a video after the break.

Continue reading PlayStation Home catches a fishing game

Joystiq PlaystationPlayStation Home catches a fishing game originally appeared on Joystiq Playstation on Wed, 06 Jan 2010 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fishinghomeplaystation-homewaterfall-terraceWed, 06 Jan 2010 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Dr Pepper giving away free EA DLC with every purchase]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/dr-pepper-giving-away-free-ea-dlc-with-every-purchase/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/dr-pepper-giving-away-free-ea-dlc-with-every-purchase/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/dr-pepper-giving-away-free-ea-dlc-with-every-purchase/#comments We can only imagine the planning meeting at Dr Pepper HQ, during which someone shouts "We must garner that critical gaming demographic! How will we ever best something as inimitable as Game Fuel?! It's got 'game' right there in the title!" Instead of copycatting the naming idea, though, Dr Pepper recently detailed an already announced partnership with EA to give away codes for downloadable content. The promotion details lists a handful of games -- Mass Effect 2, Battlefield Heroes, The Sims 3, Spore, Battlefield: Bad Company 2 -- which have "unique DLC" tied to them.

Rather than forcing an unknown amount of soda purchases out of its customers, we were told this afternoon by a customer service rep that "Every bottle wins." More specifically, each bottle contains a code that can then be redeemed on the Dr Pepper website, thus allowing participants to choose their system and DLC from an available list. We flatfooted to the local AM/PM and didn't spot the prize-bearing bottles, but we'll update this post with more information as we get it.

JoystiqDr Pepper giving away free EA DLC with every purchase originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jan 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefieldbattlefield-bad-company-2battlefield-heroesdigital-distributiondlcdownloadable-contentdr-peppereagame-fuelmass-effect-2promotionsporethe-sims-3Wed, 06 Jan 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Magic Ball transforms into Magic Orbz with upcoming DLC]]>http://playstation.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/magic-ball-transforms-into-magic-orbz-with-upcoming-dlc/http://playstation.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/magic-ball-transforms-into-magic-orbz-with-upcoming-dlc/http://playstation.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/magic-ball-transforms-into-magic-orbz-with-upcoming-dlc/#comments One of our favorite PSN games of 2009 has to be Magic Ball, the simple (yet charming) brick-breaking game from Creat Studios. Starting tomorrow, the game will be renamed Magic Orbz, in preparation of a second DLC pack.

For $2.99, the "Winter Theme" pack will add 24 new levels and four new Trophies to the title. It will appear on the PlayStation Store tomorrow in Europe, and on January 14th in North America.

Joystiq PlaystationMagic Ball transforms into Magic Orbz with upcoming DLC originally appeared on Joystiq Playstation on Wed, 06 Jan 2010 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>creat-studiosDLCmagic-ballmagic-orbzPSNtik-gamesWed, 06 Jan 2010 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Rock Band 2 patched on PS3 to make way for Rock Band Network]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/rock-band-2-patched-on-ps3-to-make-way-for-rock-band-network/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/rock-band-2-patched-on-ps3-to-make-way-for-rock-band-network/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/rock-band-2-patched-on-ps3-to-make-way-for-rock-band-network/#commentsHarmonix continues to show that it cares about Rock Band 2 fans with more than just weekly DLC. The developer has announced a patch for the PS3 version of the game that adds support for the upcoming Rock Band Network Store -- the interface for selling songs added to Rock Band by fans, musicians and record labels through the new Rock Band Network. If you were lamenting your current inability to purchase songs made by some dude, now you can take heart!

The update also adds the "much more robust handling of chord hammer-ons and pull-offs" found in The Beatles: Rock Band, support for SingStar wireless microphones, support for velocity sensitivity with Ion Drum Rocker drums, and the ability to sort songs in Quickplay by the number of stars you've earned on each song.

The update will be available this Thursday.

JoystiqRock Band 2 patched on PS3 to make way for Rock Band Network originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jan 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaharmonixmusicpatchpsnrock-bandrock-band-2rock-band-networkupdateWed, 06 Jan 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gran Turismo 5 is real enough for box art]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/gran-turismo-5-is-real-enough-for-box-art/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/gran-turismo-5-is-real-enough-for-box-art/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/gran-turismo-5-is-real-enough-for-box-art/#comments
Click for high-resolution box art. 2010 is totally the future. How can we tell? Gran Turismo 5 will actually come out. Half a decade after Gran Turismo 4, Polyphony Digital is finishing up a true successor to the self-described "real driving simulator." The evidence? Box art!

Mercedes-Benz's gull-winged SLS AMG has the honor of gracing the GT5 cover. It's a terrific marketing decision, if only to trick Back to the Future fans into thinking this is a game all about time travel. (It's not, we're afraid.)

Check out a brand new video of Sony's long-awaited PS3 racer after the break.

Continue reading Gran Turismo 5 is real enough for box art

JoystiqGran Turismo 5 is real enough for box art originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jan 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>box-artgran-turismogran-turismo-5mercedes-benzpolyphony-digitalsls-amgWed, 06 Jan 2010 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Alien Zombie Death stalks PSP Minis 'soon']]>http://playstation.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/alien-zombie-death-stalks-psp-minis-soon/http://playstation.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/alien-zombie-death-stalks-psp-minis-soon/http://playstation.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/alien-zombie-death-stalks-psp-minis-soon/#comments PSP mini's Alien Zombie Death will beam and shamble its way to doom onto PSN sometime this month. The original plan seemed to have been for the £2.50 (no US price) title to release this Thursday, but as is often the case with aliens, zombies and death: plans change quickly and violently.

Speaking of quick and violent, the 2D shooter has players blasting everything in sight in a game that appears to be Geometry Wars plus mild platforming. Check out the video above, which features the game's variety of enemies and general level layout.

Joystiq PlaystationAlien Zombie Death stalks PSP Minis 'soon' originally appeared on Joystiq Playstation on Wed, 06 Jan 2010 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alien-zombie-deathpom-pom-gamespsnpsp-minisWed, 06 Jan 2010 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[New Super Street Fighter IV Ultra Combos, alternate costumes revealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/new-super-street-fighter-iv-ultra-combos-costumes-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/new-super-street-fighter-iv-ultra-combos-costumes-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/new-super-street-fighter-iv-ultra-combos-costumes-revealed/#commentsRecent Famitsu magazine scans have surfaced, revealing new Ultra Combos for Super Street Fighter IV's world warriors and friends. As an added bonus, Eventhubs has actually translated the descriptions of the attacks, so you can get a better idea of what you're squinting at. Chun-Li's Kikosho fireball returns, and now Ryu has a "Metsu-shoryuken" -- a super-powerful Dragon Punch, duh. Most interesting, however, is Cammy's new Ultra Combo: the "Cammy Quick Combo" -- or "CQC" -- a counter move.

The Famitsu issue also features images of new alternate costumes for the upgraded fighting game -- Chun Li's, above, is the most visible from the scan. Thankfully, GameTrailers has posted a much clearer, wha-wha-wha-wooorld exclusive look at the costumes in action, along with some of the new Ultra Combos and rival battles, embedded after the break.

[Thanks, Will]

Continue reading New Super Street Fighter IV Ultra Combos, alternate costumes revealed

JoystiqNew Super Street Fighter IV Ultra Combos, alternate costumes revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jan 2010 13:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomcostumesfamitsufightingjapanscansssfivstreet-fighter-ivsuper-street-fighter-ivultra-combosWed, 06 Jan 2010 13:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Pink PSP-3000 heads to Japan: kawaii!!!]]>http://playstation.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/pink-psp-3000-heads-to-japan-kawaii/http://playstation.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/pink-psp-3000-heads-to-japan-kawaii/http://playstation.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/pink-psp-3000-heads-to-japan-kawaii/#comments Because you're worth it, Sony is introducing the "Spring Blossom Pink" PSP to Japan this March. This ¥16,800 ($183) model elegantly calls out, "easy, breezy and beautiful." Due to its soft effortless features, it's the type of PSP that will have commuters asking, "Maybe she's born with it?"

If this latest PSP-3000 color does jet set across the pacific, we'd be shocked if it wasn't bundled with the tween girl du jour.

[Via Engadget]

Joystiq PlaystationPink PSP-3000 heads to Japan: kawaii!!! originally appeared on Joystiq Playstation on Wed, 06 Jan 2010 13:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>colorspinkpsp-3000spring-blossom-pinkWed, 06 Jan 2010 13:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavy Rain handed '15' rating, BBFC explains]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/heavy-rain-handed-15-rating-bbfc-explains/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/heavy-rain-handed-15-rating-bbfc-explains/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/heavy-rain-handed-15-rating-bbfc-explains/#comments In a rather surprising act of mature judgment, the British Board of Film Classification has assigned Quantic Dream's Heavy Rain a "15" rating. Given the so-called adult themes of the western interactive novel (a genre we're classifying right here), the expectation had been that the game would receive an "18" rating, which is even reflected on retail art mock-ups. The other European ratings board, PEGI, has yet to post its classification for the game.

Speaking with IncGamers, a BBFC spokesperson explained, "These are obviously not real people, or real people acting, and it all depends on the level of blood and violence. We use the same classification for games as we do for films, and this game is suitable for a 15 audience." That's odd, we could have sworn many "real people" acted in Heavy Rain. Still, we're pleasantly surprised to see a ratings board bring equity into play by reviewing a game within the same guidelines used for movies.

[Via Eurogamer]

JoystiqHeavy Rain handed '15' rating, BBFC explains originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jan 2010 11:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbfccensorshipclassificationheavy-rainquantic-dreamratingssonywestern-interactive-novelWed, 06 Jan 2010 11:32:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War Collection now $30 on Amazon]]>http://playstation.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/god-of-war-collection-now-30-on-amazon/http://playstation.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/god-of-war-collection-now-30-on-amazon/http://playstation.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/god-of-war-collection-now-30-on-amazon/#comments If you've held off on picking up God of War Collection, then know that Amazon has slashed the price to $30 for an unspecified amount of time. That's a tremendous deal for two of the best action-adventure games ever designed -- now with those very tight HD facelifts.

Oh, and if it's been a while since you've played, and you're wondering how you'll get back into the swing of stabbing demons in the face, we've got your covered.

[Via CAG]

Joystiq PlaystationGod of War Collection now $30 on Amazon originally appeared on Joystiq Playstation on Wed, 06 Jan 2010 11:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazondealsgod-of-wargod-of-war-2god-of-war-collectionsaleWed, 06 Jan 2010 11:20:00 EST<![CDATA[GM-1 connects real drums to Guitar Hero, Rock Band]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/gm-1-connects-real-drums-to-guitar-hero-rock-band/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/gm-1-connects-real-drums-to-guitar-hero-rock-band/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/gm-1-connects-real-drums-to-guitar-hero-rock-band/#comments If you're the type of person who spends the weekend stuffing wads of cash into your Skeet shooter, only to blow 'em to pieces with your golden shotgun once they're airborne, then the $250 Omega Music Technology's GM-1 may be the perfect accessory to your expensive hobbies. The system is essentially an intermediary between Guitar Hero or Rock Band gaming drums, allowing you to play along with the games' drum tracks on the real thing ($500 drum set sold separately).

As Ars Technica points out in a recent hands-on with the product, "It's an interesting idea, but you need to be willing to put some serious time and money into the project to get worthwhile results." Aside from owning a set of real drums, you'll need the "fake" ones, too -- the GM-1 sensors send feedback from your drum set to the attached Guitar Hero or Rock Band drums, which then send the in-game cues to the gaming console. Sure, it might work, but who's got the time and money? Oh, that's right, you, Mr. I Own the Biggest Music Game Peripheral Ever. Congratulations.

JoystiqGM-1 connects real drums to Guitar Hero, Rock Band originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jan 2010 10:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>drummingdrumsgm-1guitar-heroomega-gm-1omega-music-technologyperipheralsrock-bandWed, 06 Jan 2010 10:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Is this it? Michael Jackson 'This is It' PS3 Japan bundle]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/michael-jackson-this-is-it-ps3-bundle/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/michael-jackson-this-is-it-ps3-bundle/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/michael-jackson-this-is-it-ps3-bundle/#comments Corporate synergy keeps the late "King of Pop" alive, as various divisions of Sony conspire for a special This Is It PS3 bundle. The ¥33,500 ($365) Japan-only set releases January 27 and comes with a Blu-ray movie of Michael Jackson's behind-the-scenes concert film, along with a 120GB black PS3 Slim. No word if this bundle will come with a white PS3 later.

So, let's get this straight: Japan gets a Michael Jackson PS3 bundle, while the US is "blessed" with a Hannah Montana PSP pack? That's bad, come on, you know that's bad. And the whole world has to answer right now, just to tell us once again: that's bad!

[Via Engadget]

JoystiqIs this it? Michael Jackson 'This is It' PS3 Japan bundle originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jan 2010 09:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bundlejapanmichael-jacksonscejsonythis-is-itWed, 06 Jan 2010 09:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Nielsen survey says most PSP users are female, Xbox 360 most played]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/nielsen-survey-says-most-psp-users-are-female-xbox-360-most-pla/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/nielsen-survey-says-most-psp-users-are-female-xbox-360-most-pla/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/nielsen-survey-says-most-psp-users-are-female-xbox-360-most-pla/#comments In its 2010 Media Industry Fact Sheet, the Nielsen Company tallied some interesting numbers [PDF] related to the increase of social media and how video game console usage trended in 2009. According to its survey statistics, Sony's PSP market in the United States contains a slight majority of female gamers -- 52% of the platform's owners in the region, while 49% of Nintendo Wii owners are female. Nielsen's survey statistics show that, as of 2009, 45% of all active gamers are women.

Social media has, expectantly, made a dramatic leap in usage. Nielsen's survey claims Facebook membership skyrocketing from November 2008 to 2009 with 109 million members accessing the site at the end of the the decade versus about 47.5 million the year before. Twitter saw its user base increase by 15.9 million members in the same time frame. Both social media sites have seen life on consoles.

Related to each console's individual usage -- besides what the good looking gamers enjoy -- Nielsen's survey claims the Xbox 360 is the most played console (ranked by share of total usage minutes), taking 23.1% of the measured playtime. Sony's PlayStation 2 netted second with 20.4% and the Nintendo Wii closed up the top three with 19% of the vote. While we know the previous sentence sounds like we just called all console gamers hideous beings, we just mean that ladies are pretty and smell like daffodils compared to the faint odor of Cheetos and Mountain Dew that lingers around us fellas.

[Via Edge]

JoystiqNielsen survey says most PSP users are female, Xbox 360 most played originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jan 2010 00:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nielsennielsen-companyratingssurveyWed, 06 Jan 2010 00:15:00 EST<![CDATA['Cloudsurf' trademark joins wave of Sony cloud computing hints]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/05/cloudsurf-trademark-joins-wave-of-sony-cloud-computing-hints/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/05/cloudsurf-trademark-joins-wave-of-sony-cloud-computing-hints/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/05/cloudsurf-trademark-joins-wave-of-sony-cloud-computing-hints/#comments Sony has filed a trademark notice here in the U.S. for the word "Cloudsurf," and the trademark relates to a number of different products and services, including everything from audio players to game consoles to video cameras, as well as online distribution of games, music and television. In other words, it could be for anything that Sony has made or sold, ever.

Edge guesses that it could have something to do with online distribution or even storage via a subscription model, and you might remember that earlier last year, Sony trademarked "PS Cloud," then hinting at a "cloud computing" system to provide storage or processing over the Internet. Of course, companies file trademarks all the time, without any obligation to reveal or release whatever product they're working on. So right now, "Cloudsurf" is made up of nothing but thin air -- permeated, we'd imagine, by a floaty, visible mass of condensed water droplets.

Joystiq'Cloudsurf' trademark joins wave of Sony cloud computing hints originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Jan 2010 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cloud-computingcloud-strifecloudsurfinternetonlineplaystation-3processorps-cloudps-thankssonytrademarkvideo-camerasTue, 05 Jan 2010 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Hollywood interested in doing a Darksiders movie]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/05/report-hollywood-interested-in-doing-a-darksiders-movie/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/05/report-hollywood-interested-in-doing-a-darksiders-movie/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/05/report-hollywood-interested-in-doing-a-darksiders-movie/#comments Apparently Hollywood wouldn't mind tossing Darksiders up on the silver screen, as Vigil's Joe Madureira confirmed to VG247 that THQ's already been contacted for projects outside of the video game realm. "We've gotten some interest from Hollywood, we've talked about doing a comic series," said Madureira. Obviously, a comic wouldn't be much of a stretch for the creative director, given his past experience with the medium.

"It's really a THQ thing, but I know they are definitely talking to people and I would be surprised if some of that stuff didn't happen," he added. While we can't really say whether the prospect of either is a good thing at this point -- we're still playing Darksiders for review -- we'll be sure to let you all know either way.

JoystiqReport: Hollywood interested in doing a Darksiders movie originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Jan 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>darksidersfilmjoe-madureiramoviesthqvigilvigil-gamesTue, 05 Jan 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Activision UK head polls execs from 'The Big Three' on digital distribution, cloud gaming]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/05/activision-uk-head-polls-execs-from-the-big-three-on-digital-d/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/05/activision-uk-head-polls-execs-from-the-big-three-on-digital-d/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/05/activision-uk-head-polls-execs-from-the-big-three-on-digital-d/#comments
[Image credit: Vermin Inc]
If it weren't for the fact that the recent "Andrew Brown asks" is a featured piece on UK-based MCV, the answers to his questions repeatedly starting with "Whilst" would have likely tipped us off to the Britishness of the feature and all involved. Both Sony's Ray Maguire and Nintendo's David Yarnton employ the subordinating conjunction whilst responding to questions about everything from the future of digital distribution to what the industry will look like in 2019. Though the Sony and Nintendo execs were a bit more reserved in their predictions, Microsoft's Neil Thompson believes digital distribution will "explode in the next three years." All three gentlemen admitted that retail will still play a major role for (at very least) a few more years.

As for cloud computing, only Microsoft's Thompson seems to be on board. "I'm convinced cloud will play a central role in the games industry of the future ... our strategy is certainly to enable people to connect to their key entertainment content through innovative services that span across multiple devices." Our only worry is that, by the time all this future stuff arrives, we'll be too busy cruising around in our flying cars to care.

JoystiqActivision UK head polls execs from 'The Big Three' on digital distribution, cloud gaming originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Jan 2010 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionandrew-browncloud-computingdavid-yarntondigital-distributiongame-industrymicrosoftneil-thompsonnintendoray-maguiresonyTue, 05 Jan 2010 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony proposes increase in Blu-ray storage to 33.4 GB]]>http://playstation.joystiq.com/2010/01/05/sony-proposes-increase-in-blu-ray-storage-to-33-4-gb/http://playstation.joystiq.com/2010/01/05/sony-proposes-increase-in-blu-ray-storage-to-33-4-gb/http://playstation.joystiq.com/2010/01/05/sony-proposes-increase-in-blu-ray-storage-to-33-4-gb/#comments With the exception of Metal Gear Solid 4 and Final Fantasy XIII, games have rarely needed more than the 25 GB offered by a standard single-layer Blu-ray disc. The lack of demand hasn't stopped Sony and Panasonic, though. The two companies have developed a new technology called "i-MLSE" that can increase the capacity of a single-layer disc by about a third, to 33.4 GB. According to Nikkei Electronics, i-MLSE is a processor-intensive method that will allow players to properly calculate the read-error rate, a stumbling block that prevented larger capacity discs.

Presumably, it will only take a firmware update to ensure Blu-ray players (like the PS3) can utilize the new disc format. Sony plans on encouraging widespread adoption through the Blu-ray Disc Association, which shouldn't be a problem considering Sony plays a pretty large role in that organization.

[Via Engadget]

Joystiq PlaystationSony proposes increase in Blu-ray storage to 33.4 GB originally appeared on Joystiq Playstation on Tue, 05 Jan 2010 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>33.4gbblu-rayi-mlsesonystorageTue, 05 Jan 2010 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Dragon Age Awakening trailer: just as He foretold]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/05/dragon-age-awakening-trailer-just-as-he-foretold/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/05/dragon-age-awakening-trailer-just-as-he-foretold/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/05/dragon-age-awakening-trailer-just-as-he-foretold/#comments You'd hoped that after investing 60 hours of your life, you could hang up your sword and catch a breather until the next BioWare RPG, but, oh no, the Darkspawn did not simply disappear. Thankfully, today's announcement of Dragon Age: Origins - Awakening, a retail expansion to IGN's & Spike's RPG of the Year Joystiq's "4th Best of 2009," has been accompanied by this video pep talk. After all, you have quite the task ahead of you.

Awakening will be released March 16 for $39.99 on PC, Xbox 360 and PS3. A copy of the original Dragon Age: Origins is required to play.

JoystiqDragon Age Awakening trailer: just as He foretold originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Jan 2010 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>awakeningbiowaredragon-agedragon-age-awakeningdragon-age-originsdragon-age-origins-awakeningeaexpansiontrailervideoTue, 05 Jan 2010 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New Army of Two trailer previews multiplayer modes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/05/new-army-of-two-trailer-previews-multiplayer-modes/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/05/new-army-of-two-trailer-previews-multiplayer-modes/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/05/new-army-of-two-trailer-previews-multiplayer-modes/#commentsSo, okay, Army of Two: The 40th Day is kind of the definition of a multiplayer mode: "All co-op, all the time." But on top of the constant comradery of the core campaign, this sequel also features several traditional multiplayer modes inspired by other popular multiplayer games.

This latest trailer chronicles the classic struggle between the colors Red and Blue across the game's four muliplayer modes: Warzone, Co-op Deathmatch, Control, and Extraction. Sadly, it appears that the So You Think You Can Fist Bump competition didn't make the cut.

JoystiqNew Army of Two trailer previews multiplayer modes originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Jan 2010 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>army-of-twoArmy-of-Two-The-40th-Dayeaea-montrealmultiplayerTue, 05 Jan 2010 13:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Uncharted 2 gets big multiplayer site update]]>http://playstation.joystiq.com/2010/01/05/uncharted-2-gets-big-multiplayer-site-update/http://playstation.joystiq.com/2010/01/05/uncharted-2-gets-big-multiplayer-site-update/http://playstation.joystiq.com/2010/01/05/uncharted-2-gets-big-multiplayer-site-update/#comments Just before the clock struck midnight to round out the last decade, Naughty Dog unveiled (and released) a major overhaul to its online stat tracking for Uncharted 2: Among Thieves. The game's new stat display digs let us get down and dirty into the tiniest little details. Need to know your kill/death ratio, and your lifetime loot stockpile, and see how you compare to the entire global average on a specific map? Done. Looking for detailed breakdowns of previous multiplayer showdowns? Covered.

This stat update is a monster and according to Naughty Dog, the team may still expand the system further. We're willing to let them sit on it for a while, but only because we're still a little busy swooning over our top pick of 2009.

Joystiq PlaystationUncharted 2 gets big multiplayer site update originally appeared on Joystiq Playstation on Tue, 05 Jan 2010 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>naughty-dogonlinestatisticsstatsuncharted-2uncharted-2-among-thievesTue, 05 Jan 2010 13:45:00 EST