TheDigitalSet Community Forums - The Feed http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/ Here you will find important notices, reminders, updates and warnings surrounding the tech, gaming, and media industries. Searching this forum is disabled for now, posts are not counted towards your post count and they will not be shown under new posts. en Thu, 09 Sep 2010 17:49:34 GMT vBulletin 60 http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/images/darkskin/misc/rss.png TheDigitalSet Community Forums - The Feed http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/ Halo: Reach strategy guide gets six covers for six Spartans http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?32001-Halo-Reach-strategy-guide-gets-six-covers-for-six-Spartans&goto=newpost Thu, 09 Sep 2010 17:40:08 GMT Image: http://www.blogcdn.com/www.joystiq.com/media/2010/09/reachguides.jpg ...
If you're planning to pick up Halo: Reach next week, you may also be preparing for the inevitable question, "Would you like the strategy guide with that?" If so, you'd better be prepared to say "no" up to six times. BradyGames has revealed six different covers -- one for each of the Spartans in Noble Team -- for its $35 hardcover limited edition Halo: Reach strategy guide.

For those of you who were planning to purchase the guide, prepare to be surprised. The covers will be hidden behind the guide's dust jacket, so you won't know which Spartan you got until you unwrap the book. We've been thinking about it for a while, and we're really hoping we get Donnie. Er, Kat. We meant Kat.
Gallery: Halo Reach (Signature Series Guide covers)


Halo: Reach strategy guide gets six covers for six Spartans originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Sep 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?32001-Halo-Reach-strategy-guide-gets-six-covers-for-six-Spartans <![CDATA[Next Yakuza revealed as 'Ryu ga Gotoku Of the End']]> http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31999-Next-Yakuza-revealed-as-Ryu-ga-Gotoku-Of-the-End&goto=newpost Thu, 09 Sep 2010 17:11:10 GMT Image:...
Though still not announced for US launch, the next PlayStation 3 installment in the Yakuza series was just unveiled by Sega of Japan (via Andriasang). The Japanese version of the game's official website is up, introducing the title as "Ryu ga Gotoku Of the End," and showing little more than the logo.

The game was first teased back in March with a shot of the Kamurocho district from previous Yakuza titles (now seen more clearly in the gallery below). More recently, Japanese audiences were treated to a teaser ad highlighting a possibly wrecked Tokyo as the game's setting.

For those of you who can read Japanese, the site offers a short blurb about the game alongside computer wallpapers and a set of folder icons for both Windows and Mac. Nope, no screenshots or videos yet, just stuff with which to dress up your computer. We're hoping to see the game in action at Tokyo Game Show next week.Gallery: Ryu ga Gotoku Of the End (Yakuza 5)


Next Yakuza revealed as 'Ryu ga Gotoku Of the End' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Sep 2010 13:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31999-Next-Yakuza-revealed-as-Ryu-ga-Gotoku-Of-the-End <![CDATA[LittleBigPlanet 2 'Sackzan' featurette is a swinging good time]]> http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31998-LittleBigPlanet-2-Sackzan-featurette-is-a-swinging-good-time&goto=newpost Thu, 09 Sep 2010 16:50:42 GMT Image:...
What level could better demonstrate the practical applications of LittleBigPlanet 2's grappling hook than one based on Tarzan, the O.G. of using swinging as a form of locomotion? Check out Media Molecule's "Sackzan" featurette below, and imagine how you'll incorporate the new toy in your own levels.Continue reading LittleBigPlanet 2 'Sackzan' featurette is a swinging good time

LittleBigPlanet 2 'Sackzan' featurette is a swinging good time originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Sep 2010 12:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31998-LittleBigPlanet-2-Sackzan-featurette-is-a-swinging-good-time <![CDATA[3DS Dead or Alive subbed 'Dimensions,' new screens and info]]> http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31997-3DS-Dead-or-Alive-subbed-Dimensions-new-screens-and-info&goto=newpost Thu, 09 Sep 2010 16:31:27 GMT Image: http://www.blogcdn.com/www.joystiq.com/media/2010/09/raidou3ds.jpg ...
Famitsu has revealed a few new tidbits regarding the Nintendo 3DS rendition of Dead or Alive, thoughtfully translated by andriasang.com. The game, now known as Dead or Alive Dimensions, is being developed by Team Ninja under the direction of Yosuke Hayashi (who most recently worked on Metroid: Other M).

The hallmark features of the series (counters and impossibly proportioned women, presumably) are set to make a comeback. The game is also supposed to be accessible to players that have avoided 3D fighting games in the past. The article confirms that Raidou -- super cheap boss character from the original Dead or Alive -- will be making a return appearance (we thought that was him in the E3 screenshots!). Head over to Famitsu to check out a handful of new screens.3DS Dead or Alive subbed 'Dimensions,' new screens and info originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Sep 2010 12:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31997-3DS-Dead-or-Alive-subbed-Dimensions-new-screens-and-info <![CDATA[Bethesda parent company trademarks 'Oblivion' for use in films]]> http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31996-Bethesda-parent-company-trademarks-Oblivion-for-use-in-films&goto=newpost Thu, 09 Sep 2010 16:10:17 GMT Image:...
ZeniMax Media -- umbrella company to Bethesda Softworks and id Software, among others -- trademarked the rights to the term "Oblivion" last month, as it pertains to "Motion picture film production; entertainment services, namely, providing motion picture theatrical films in the field of fantasy games." VGTribune noticed the filing, which raises the possibility of an Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion film -- or something related.

The past few years have yielded a mess of cross-media expansion from gaming into film, with everything from Assassin's Creed to Halo getting live-action content delivered pre-launch as part of a game's marketing campaign. THQ has even made it a goal to push its games across multiple mediums with an initiative set forth by "crossmedia" evangelist (and executive vice president) Danny Bilson. Zenimax could just as likely be preparing a promotional film for use as a prequel to a forthcoming Elder Scrolls sequel. Stranger things have happened.
Bethesda parent company trademarks 'Oblivion' for use in films originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Sep 2010 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31996-Bethesda-parent-company-trademarks-Oblivion-for-use-in-films PlayStation turns 15: Share your memories http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31995-PlayStation-turns-15-Share-your-memories&goto=newpost Thu, 09 Sep 2010 16:10:17 GMT Image: http://www.blogcdn.com/www.joystiq.com/media/2010/09/happybdaypsx.jpg A...
A lot of these anniversary posts are fairly cursory, but this one genuinely makes us feel pretty old. Fifteen years ago on this day, Sony gave North America the system that ushered in the modern era of console gaming: the PlayStation. We thought that this might be a fun opportunity to share some of your favorite memories of the Old Gray Play-dy, whether it be the first time you stunned monkeys in Ape Escape, creating carnage in Twisted Metal or shouting "You gotta believe!" along with PaRappa the Rapper.

Happy birthday, big guy. Thanks for everything.Continue reading PlayStation turns 15: Share your memories

PlayStation turns 15: Share your memories originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Sep 2010 12:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31995-PlayStation-turns-15-Share-your-memories 30% of surveyed PS3 owners own more than 20 games, and other fun facts http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31994-30-of-surveyed-PS3-owners-own-more-than-20-games-and-other-fun-facts&goto=newpost Thu, 09 Sep 2010 15:51:10 GMT Image:...
Did you know that Kratos is the most popular PlayStation character (with Nathan Drake a close second)? And did you know that 40% of PS3 gamers can't be in a relationship with someone that "gets in the way of their gaming"? Sony shared some fun facts for its 15th anniversary.30% of surveyed PS3 owners own more than 20 games, and other fun facts originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Sep 2010 11:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31994-30-of-surveyed-PS3-owners-own-more-than-20-games-and-other-fun-facts <![CDATA[Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood PC delayed until 2011, Euro beta on Oct. 4]]> http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31993-Assassin-s-Creed-Brotherhood-PC-delayed-until-2011-Euro-beta-on-Oct.-4&goto=newpost Thu, 09 Sep 2010 15:30:04 GMT Image: http://www.blogcdn.com/www.joystiq.com/media/2010/07/acb723.jpg ...
Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood for PC is tapping the snooze button until Q1 2011. Ubisoft made the announcement this morning, along with confirmation of an October 4 start date for the European multiplayer beta on PS3 -- the North American beta begins on September 13.

PC Assassins are probably noticing an emerging conspiracy (by the Templars, perhaps?). The series never seems to make it out on the same day as consoles. Both Assassin's Creed and its sequel came out on PC a few months after their console counterparts -- with some extra DRM drama tossed in for good measure. Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood is still expected for Xbox 360 and PS3 on November 16 and 18 in North America and Europe, respectively.Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood PC delayed until 2011, Euro beta on Oct. 4 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Sep 2010 11:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31993-Assassin-s-Creed-Brotherhood-PC-delayed-until-2011-Euro-beta-on-Oct.-4 <![CDATA[Kaz Hirai: Price 'perhaps' an issue with PSP Go]]> http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31992-Kaz-Hirai-Price-perhaps-an-issue-with-PSP-Go&goto=newpost Thu, 09 Sep 2010 15:00:26 GMT Image: http://www.blogcdn.com/www.joystiq.com/media/2010/09/530pspgo.jpg In what...
In what can only be described as a triumph of understatement, PlayStation boss Kaz Hirai has admitted to MCV that the $250 pricing could "perhaps" be blamed for the PSP Go's unimpressive sales thus far. "I think we need to make sure we have as many titles available to download as possible, to make the experience as easy as possible. But also pricing is perhaps an issue. Because of the cost reductions we've been able to do over the years, the traditional PSP has benefited. But the PSP Go is a completely different design, so the cost trend is different." To put it another way, when Sony took out the part that makes it play all the PSP games you already own, it made it very expensive. Or to put it even simpler: They only hit you because they love you so much.

If Sony really wanted to capture the situation, it'd make an ad where Kevin Butler puts a PSP Go in a slingshot, fires it out a window at a passing explosion and says, "Win some, lose some, I guess." We understand why this level of corporate honesty is not an option, but can we at least get something better than "perhaps"? Like ... say ... a price cut?Kaz Hirai: Price 'perhaps' an issue with PSP Go originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Sep 2010 10:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31992-Kaz-Hirai-Price-perhaps-an-issue-with-PSP-Go Knights in the Nightmare arriving on Nov. 9, bringing Yggdra Union along http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31991-Knights-in-the-Nightmare-arriving-on-Nov.-9-bringing-Yggdra-Union-along&goto=newpost Thu, 09 Sep 2010 14:30:03 GMT Image: http://www.blogcdn.com/www.joystiq.com/media/2010/09/knightsinnightmare.jpg ...
Atlus has good news and bad news for players looking forward to Knights in the Nightmare, the upcoming strategy RPG-slash-bullet hell shooter getting ported to the PSP. We'll give you the bad news first, since that's usually the way to go: The game isn't coming out on October 19 as planned. Instead, you'll have to wait a few more weeks, as the release date has been moved back to November 9. We know, that probably ruins your pre-Halloween plans, but wait for the good news.

The good news is that Atlus is including a digital copy of Yggdra Union with the purchase of "each and every launch copy" of Knights in the Nightmare. You may not know all about the Dept. Heaven series, so keep in mind that these are the two episodes of the series continuing where Riviera: The Promised Land started out, all produced by Sting Entertainment. In essence, you'll get two obscure Japanese genre mashups for the price of just one. Aren't you glad we told you the bad news first?Continue reading Knights in the Nightmare arriving on Nov. 9, bringing Yggdra Union along

Knights in the Nightmare arriving on Nov. 9, bringing Yggdra Union along originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Sep 2010 10:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31991-Knights-in-the-Nightmare-arriving-on-Nov.-9-bringing-Yggdra-Union-along <![CDATA[BioWare working to resolve 'continuity bug' in Dragon Age's Witch Hunt DLC]]> http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31990-BioWare-working-to-resolve-continuity-bug-in-Dragon-Age-s-Witch-Hunt-DLC&goto=newpost Thu, 09 Sep 2010 14:01:18 GMT Image:...
BioWare's Witch Hunt DLC for Dragon Age: Origins has been affected by a few unfortunate bugs during its launch, executive producer Mark Darrah admitted on the company's forums. "Unfortunately, there is a continuity bug that is causing issues with a subset of our player base. While this issue is not affecting the majority of people, it is still a significant issue that we will address," Darrah said last night.

Furthermore, an issue with saved games not reflecting the DLC's completion is currently being looked into -- our own reviewer even ran into this particular glitch -- which could be troublesome for those hoping to import the DLC's outcome into next year's Dragon Age 2. Darrah also added, "We apologize for any inconvenience this may be causing anyone," and said his team is "doing everything we can to fix this in a timely manner so those who are affected can go back to enjoying Witch Hunt as soon as possible."BioWare working to resolve 'continuity bug' in Dragon Age's Witch Hunt DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Sep 2010 09:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31990-BioWare-working-to-resolve-continuity-bug-in-Dragon-Age-s-Witch-Hunt-DLC <![CDATA[BioWare working to resolve 'continuity bug' in Dragon Age's Witch Hunt DLC]]> http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31989-BioWare-working-to-resolve-continuity-bug-in-Dragon-Age-s-Witch-Hunt-DLC&goto=newpost Thu, 09 Sep 2010 13:43:14 GMT Image:...
BioWare's Witch Hunt DLC for Dragon Age: Origins has been found to have a couple of unfortunate bugs plaguing its launch, admits executive producer Mark Darrah on the company's forums. "Unfortunately, there is a continuity bug that is causing issues with a subset of our player base. While this issue is not affecting the majority of people, it is still a significant issue that we will address," Darrah said last night.

Furthermore, an issue with saved games not showing up after the DLC is completed is currently being looked into -- our own reviewer even ran into this particular glitch -- which could be troublesome for those hoping to import the DLC's story arc-concluding decisions. Darrah also adds, "We apologize for any inconvenience this may be causing anyone," and says "his team is "doing everything we can to fix this in a timely manner so those who are affected can go back to enjoying Witch Hunt as soon as possible."BioWare working to resolve 'continuity bug' in Dragon Age's Witch Hunt DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 21:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31989-BioWare-working-to-resolve-continuity-bug-in-Dragon-Age-s-Witch-Hunt-DLC EA Sports MMA demo touches gloves on September 28 http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31988-EA-Sports-MMA-demo-touches-gloves-on-September-28&goto=newpost Thu, 09 Sep 2010 13:30:11 GMT Image: http://www.blogcdn.com/www.joystiq.com/media/2010/09/easportsmmademo.jpg ...
Were you in the mood to virtually grapple with Jason "Mayhem" Miller, and disappointed that he wasn't in the UFC game? You're in luck -- EA Sports MMA will be available in limited demo form on September 28 for Xbox Live and PlayStation Network. The demo features Miller against fellow middleweight Jake Shields, along with current Strikeforce heavyweight champ Alistair Overeem against former WWE superstar Bobby Lashley, with both matches overseen by the great Big John McCarthy.

The demo will also have a quick tutorial and information on the game's other modes (including that EA Sports Live Broadcast service), and "sharing the demo with friends," EA says, will unlock "Classic" Randy Couture as a playable character in the full game. Just three short weeks from now, you'll throw down in the Octag -- whoops, we mean ring or cage (sorry Dana!). In the meantime, let these screenshots soothe your fightin' rage.
Gallery: EA Sports MMA (9/7/2010)


EA Sports MMA demo touches gloves on September 28 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Sep 2010 09:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31988-EA-Sports-MMA-demo-touches-gloves-on-September-28 ZUG takes live-action Lemmings tribute to Boston http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31986-ZUG-takes-live-action-Lemmings-tribute-to-Boston&goto=newpost Thu, 09 Sep 2010 09:04:14 GMT Image:...
The very same mall we walked through to enter the inaugural PAX East this past March just saw a heavy influx of Lemmings, care of the folks at ZUG and "a few dozen" of their "closest friends." The video contains at least one water-based Lemming fatality -- you've been warned!Continue reading ZUG takes live-action Lemmings tribute to Boston

ZUG takes live-action Lemmings tribute to Boston originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Sep 2010 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31986-ZUG-takes-live-action-Lemmings-tribute-to-Boston Skyfighter: an old-school side-scrolling shooter for PSN http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31985-Skyfighter-an-old-school-side-scrolling-shooter-for-PSN&goto=newpost Thu, 09 Sep 2010 07:10:20 GMT Image: http://www.blogcdn.com/www.joystiq.com/media/2010/09/skyfighterpsncrea.jpg ...
Creat's support for the PlayStation Network seemingly has no end. Although the studio's TerRover was just released this week, Creat has already revealed its next game: Skyfighter, an "unabashedly retro" side-scrolling shooter. The gameplay looks straightforward -- players take control of a small fighter plane, gunning and bombing over 21 levels -- but that's to be expected of a title from a studio whose previous works include Hamster Ball and Smash Cars. Skyfighter will also have a multiplayer mode, but TheSixthAxis reports that it will be offline only.

Surprisingly, the game is arriving on the PlayStation Store for PS3 in just a "few weeks" time. Perhaps Creat wants Skyfighter to fly under the radar -- but we're certain the sales team wouldn't appreciate that.Skyfighter: an old-school side-scrolling shooter for PSN originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Sep 2010 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31985-Skyfighter-an-old-school-side-scrolling-shooter-for-PSN <![CDATA[Quantum Theory demo on Xbox Live 'later this month']]> http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31981-Quantum-Theory-demo-on-Xbox-Live-later-this-month&goto=newpost Thu, 09 Sep 2010 06:10:13 GMT Image: http://www.blogcdn.com/www.joystiq.com/media/2010/09/quantumshot.jpg ...
While PS3 owners are already enjoying the demo for Tecmo Koei's Quantum Theory, it looks like the denizens of Xbox Live will have to wait a little longer. Unfortunately, we don't have a solid date for the demo's Xbox debut, with an official announcement saying simply that it will arrive "later this month."

Don't worry about it too much though, we're sure you'll find something to keep you busy for the rest of the month.
Gallery: Quantum Theory (9/8/2010)


Continue reading Quantum Theory demo on Xbox Live 'later this month'

Quantum Theory demo on Xbox Live 'later this month' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Sep 2010 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31981-Quantum-Theory-demo-on-Xbox-Live-later-this-month <![CDATA[Zynga employees speak out on 'doing evil']]> http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31979-Zynga-employees-speak-out-on-doing-evil&goto=newpost Thu, 09 Sep 2010 05:10:37 GMT Image: http://www.blogcdn.com/www.joystiq.com/media/2010/09/farmvillewhiciswic.jpg ...
Google has been long-admired for its unique company motto: "Don't Be Evil." Critics will note that some of Google's practices have fallen from that mantra, but it's a better place to start than, say, Zynga, the company known for the popular Facebook games FarmVille and Mafia Wars. "Zynga's motto is 'Do Evil,'" a former employee of the company told SF Weekly. "I would venture to say it is one of the most evil places I've run into, from a culture perspective and in its business approach. I've tried my best to make sure that friends don't let friends work at Zynga."

The driving force behind this bitterness and resentment of Zygna is the company's derivative culture. "You're not smarter than your competitor. Just copy what they do and do it until you get their numbers," one employee recalls Zynga's founder, Mark Pincus, telling the team. The SF Weekly report shows clear examples of Zygna's copy-paste attitude: there's Farm Town (pictured right), which preceded FarmVille (left) by months; and Playfish's Restaurant City, coming before Zynga's Cafe World.

Zygna has already been sued by Digital Chocolate for the use of the Mafia Wars name. According to another employee, lawsuits have been accounted for, with the company mindful of possible settlements. "I was around meetings where things like that were being discussed, and the ramifications of things like that were being discussed -- the fact that they'd probably be sued by the people who designed the game," he says. "And the thought was, 'Well, that's fine, we'll settle.' Our case wasn't really defensible."

Supposedly, things are changing. With hundreds of millions of dollars invested in the company, the public has been placing much more attention on Zynga's upcoming games. The era of the quick copy-paste cash-in may be over for Zynga, with at least one employee saying that there's a "new emphasis on original content and more sophisticated applications to draw in and keep users."Zynga employees speak out on 'doing evil' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Sep 2010 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31979-Zynga-employees-speak-out-on-doing-evil <![CDATA[38 Studios' loan from Rhode Island detailed in new report]]> http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31976-38-Studios-loan-from-Rhode-Island-detailed-in-new-report&goto=newpost Thu, 09 Sep 2010 04:10:22 GMT Image: http://www.blogcdn.com/www.joystiq.com/media/2010/07/38studios530.jpg ...
Thanks to documentation from the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation, we now have a better idea of the terms involved in 38 Studios' controversial move from Massachusetts to R.I. Obtained by WPRI, the report kinda explains what's going on: 38 Studios will receive $51 million from the state; $13 million as soon as Curt Shilling's studio signs the contract to move and another $38 million as the company achieves milestones over the next 15 months. The remaining $20 million is held in some reserve to assure three years of debt payment, which is tied to other caveats.

38 Studios also has a strict job creation schedule over the next three years. The developer must have 125 full-time jobs within a year of signing for the loan, another 175 the following year and 150 more the year after. That may just be numbers to many of you out there, but industry human resource representatives and studio directors just spit coffee all over their monitors. The studio will be penalized $7,500 per year for each of the 450 jobs it doesn't create. Obviously, if you do the math, it's cheaper not to hire for the full-time job and take the penalty.

38 Studios must also announce the location of its new studio operations and corporate headquarters by November 30, 2010 -- note: the company just has to say where it's going, not actually get there. Also, the closing of the loan requires a "signed, enforceable" 10-year lease for 38 to stay in Rhode Island. Looks like R.I. wants to make sure that it's not paying to raise a studio -- which, to date, hasn't released a single project -- and watch it leave for California or Canada after it gets all that cash.38 Studios' loan from Rhode Island detailed in new report originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Sep 2010 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31976-38-Studios-loan-from-Rhode-Island-detailed-in-new-report SplitFish FragFX controllers continue to evolve, now more fishy http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31971-SplitFish-FragFX-controllers-continue-to-evolve-now-more-fishy&goto=newpost Thu, 09 Sep 2010 03:10:49 GMT Image:...
While "10.10.10" made for a dramatic release date, oddball peripheral manufacturer SplitFish has announced a revised November 1 street date for the next iterations of its FragFX controller (think: Wii Nunchuk, sans accelerometer, tethered to a mouse). Having already introduced a "Pro" edition last year, SplitFish went with the "deadly [aquatic] predator" motif for the 2010 series, which includes: the wireless FragFX Shark and its wired counterparts, the fire engine red FragFX Piranha (pictured) and more subtle FragFX Barracuda.

The Shark, compatible with PS3, PC and Mac systems, will retail for a whopping $90. The Barracuda and Piranha, only for PS3, will go for $70 and $50, respectively. Splitfish notes that its 2010 FragFX lineup will coincide with the release of Call of Duty: Black Ops on November 9.

"It may look like the Pro," says endorser Dennis Dozier, the "#1 Global CoD Champ," comparing the Shark to last year's model (itself an upgrade of the 2007 original). "It is definitely not the Pro."
Gallery: SplitFish 2010 FragFX Controller Series (Shark, Barracuda & Piranha)


Continue reading SplitFish FragFX controllers continue to evolve, now more fishy

SplitFish FragFX controllers continue to evolve, now more fishy originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31971-SplitFish-FragFX-controllers-continue-to-evolve-now-more-fishy Nintendo trademarks Super Mario anniversary logo http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31964-Nintendo-trademarks-Super-Mario-anniversary-logo&goto=newpost Thu, 09 Sep 2010 02:10:27 GMT Image: http://www.blogcdn.com/www.joystiq.com/media/2010/09/anniversarysmb530.jpg ...
The 25th anniversary of Super Mario Bros' NES debut is only a week away. To celebrate, Nintendo of Japan has trademarked a new ... logo. Siliconera speculates that the logo will be appended to the upcoming Japanese re-release of Mario All-Stars (known as Super Mario Collection). But, why go through the effort of trademarking a logo for a single product? Presumably, the company will want to use this logo on all Mario games in the coming year.

While Mario's 25th anniversary should warrant a far more festive attitude from Nintendo, it doesn't seem like Mario actually needs the added attention. Unlike most other gaming mascots, Mario's popularity hasn't waned in the 25 years since the NES game -- a testament to how beloved an icon he truly is.Nintendo trademarks Super Mario anniversary logo originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31964-Nintendo-trademarks-Super-Mario-anniversary-logo Retro consoles torn apart, ancient innards exposed http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31963-Retro-consoles-torn-apart-ancient-innards-exposed&goto=newpost Thu, 09 Sep 2010 01:40:26 GMT Image: http://www.blogcdn.com/www.joystiq.com/media/2010/09/atariguts.jpg ...
If you want to see just how far game consoles have come over the last few decades, check out iFixit's teardown of the Atari 2600. As you can see, there's not much to onetime king of home entertainment. Just look at how complex an iPhone 4 is in comparison! The Atari teardown was part of a full week of retro console deconstructions, including the Famicom, Magnavox Odyssey and even the Virtual Boy. Check them out for yourself -- if you think you can handle all that naked, aging PCB.Retro consoles torn apart, ancient innards exposed originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31963-Retro-consoles-torn-apart-ancient-innards-exposed Dragon Age: Witch Hunt DLC review: Build a bridge out of her http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31961-Dragon-Age-Witch-Hunt-DLC-review-Build-a-bridge-out-of-her&goto=newpost Thu, 09 Sep 2010 01:10:32 GMT Image:...
"But whether you seek answers, revenge, or reconciliation with your lost love, you may find more than you bargained for."

Contrary to the marketing line, you'll likely find less than you bargained for in Dragon Age: Witch Hunt, a disappointing and flimsy finale to the Dragon Age: Origins storyline. It's not a terrible chunk of content -- and it would have to do far worse before it could tarnish BioWare's other efforts in keeping the Dragon Age universe alive for almost a year now -- but the crucial failure to deliver a satisfying conclusion is hard to forget. We'll talk forgiveness later.Continue reading Dragon Age: Witch Hunt DLC review: Build a bridge out of her

Dragon Age: Witch Hunt DLC review: Build a bridge out of her originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31961-Dragon-Age-Witch-Hunt-DLC-review-Build-a-bridge-out-of-her Video: Creating the sounds of Halo: Reach http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31959-Video-Creating-the-sounds-of-Halo-Reach&goto=newpost Thu, 09 Sep 2010 00:40:31 GMT Image: http://www.blogcdn.com/www.joystiq.com/media/2010/09/reachsoundplay.jpg ...
Most Halo fans are intimately familiar with the work of Marty O'Donnell, longtime composer for the series, but you may not be aware of the level of work that goes into each and every sound in Halo: Reach. In a new video put together by SoundWorks Collection, O'Donnell and two of Reach's sound designers, C. Paul Johnson and Jay Weinland, discuss the effort behind the soundscape of the game (containing over 60,000 audio assets). Watch the video after the break to see just how deep the sound design is, even for something as simple as a grenade explosion.

[Thanks, Christian]Continue reading Video: Creating the sounds of Halo: Reach

Video: Creating the sounds of Halo: Reach originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31959-Video-Creating-the-sounds-of-Halo-Reach PAX Prime 2010 had over 67k attendees; international show teased http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31958-PAX-Prime-2010-had-over-67k-attendees-international-show-teased&goto=newpost Thu, 09 Sep 2010 00:10:25 GMT Image: http://www.blogcdn.com/www.joystiq.com/media/2010/09/paxp2010cosplaylm.jpg ...
67,600. That's the number of nerds and gaming fans that rushed Seattle's PAX Prime show this year. It's easily the largest gaming event in the US open to the public, and it shows no sign of losing momentum. This year's show made headlines, too, with the surprise reveal of a fully playable Duke Nukem Forever.

Speaking with Gamasutra, the Penny Arcade duo noted that the establishment of PAX not only serves gamers, but publishers as well. "[Publishers] need a place like PAX to promote [their products]," the team said. This year's show gave fans (and journalists!) an additional opportunity to check out games like Epic Mickey, Swarm, and Outland before release. PAX's timing, the Penny Arcade duo argue, allow for games to be spread more evenly throughout the year. "Before, if a game didn't make its Christmas launch it was a nightmare. This year was much more distributed as far as big releases."

Penny Arcade Expo will return to Boston next year for PAX East 2011, which will undoubtedly also turn up big numbers. But, PAX may have its eyes set on an international show. "A third PAX would likely take place in a different country," the Gamasutra report states. "Preferably somewhere the duo want to visit." PAX South Africa, perhaps? Cause we've got that covered!PAX Prime 2010 had over 67k attendees; international show teased originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31958-PAX-Prime-2010-had-over-67k-attendees-international-show-teased Disney Guilty Party review: Waggle, She Wrote http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31957-Disney-Guilty-Party-review-Waggle-She-Wrote&goto=newpost Wed, 08 Sep 2010 23:40:02 GMT Image: http://www.blogcdn.com/www.joystiq.com/media/2010/09/guiltypart.jpg ...
Oh great, a Wii game with "Party" in the title. Do we really need another one of these? I mean, we've already got Raving Rabbits TV Party, Pool Party, Game Party, Babies Party, Mario Party 8, Boom Blox: Bash Party, and ... trust me, I could go on.

Wait a second. What's that? Disney Guilty Party's actually fun? It doesn't look like the developers were locked in a closet throughout the design process? Oh, fine. I guess I'll give it a shot.
Gallery: Disney Guilty Party


Continue reading Disney Guilty Party review: Waggle, She Wrote

Disney Guilty Party review: Waggle, She Wrote originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31957-Disney-Guilty-Party-review-Waggle-She-Wrote <![CDATA[Space Invaders Infinity Gene Xbox 360 & PS3 preview: a classic evolved]]> http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31956-Space-Invaders-Infinity-Gene-Xbox-360-amp-PS3-preview-a-classic-evolved&goto=newpost Wed, 08 Sep 2010 23:10:09 GMT Image:...

Space Invaders: Infinity Gene is coming to PS3 and Xbox 360 next week, on September 14 and 15, respectively. Although based on the iPhone version of the game, the HD presentation and the much-needed ability to use a gamepad makes it a worthwhile upgrade over the iPhone version. It's far easier to pull off combos, powered by consecutive shots, with a controller -- especially when you're able to see your ship (instead of your thumb).

For those unfamiliar with the game, the concept centers around the evolution of the shooter. Starting with the iconic intro stage to the original arcade game, Infinity Gene introduces new gameplay and visual elements as you reach certain score targets. The first upgrade allows you to move your ship freely across the X and Y axis, and eventually you'll be able to move along the Z-axis as well. The visuals transform from a monochromatic not-even-8-bit look, to a wild barrage of colorful vectors.

Like the rest of the recent Space Invaders games, Infinity Gene may be more fun to look at, than to actually play. The entire presentation is high-concept -- every time the bright white "EVOLUTION" screen appears on the screen, it's hard not to think how odd this title really is. It's definitely intriguing, but perhaps not everyone's cup of tea.Gallery: Space Invaders: Infinity Gene (XBLA/PSN)


Continue reading Space Invaders Infinity Gene Xbox 360 & PS3 preview: a classic evolved

Space Invaders Infinity Gene Xbox 360 & PS3 preview: a classic evolved originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31956-Space-Invaders-Infinity-Gene-Xbox-360-amp-PS3-preview-a-classic-evolved Microsoft promises new Kinect games at Tokyo Game Show http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31955-Microsoft-promises-new-Kinect-games-at-Tokyo-Game-Show&goto=newpost Wed, 08 Sep 2010 22:40:25 GMT Image: http://www.blogcdn.com/www.joystiq.com/media/2010/07/kinect530direct.jpg ...
Tucked away in this morning's press release revealing the 250GB Xbox 360 with Kinect bundle was news that, at this year's Tokyo Game Show, Microsoft will be showing off new Kinect games. The release says that the company will unveil "even more new controller-free games and experiences never before possible," without making any mention of the Microsoft-hosted keynote or the recently announced brain game from Dr. Kawashima and Namco.

At the very least, we know to expect dozens -- if not hundreds -- of videos showing Japanese people waving their arms and legs about, trying desperately to maintain control while piloting Kinect-based games. We can hardly wait.Microsoft promises new Kinect games at Tokyo Game Show originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31955-Microsoft-promises-new-Kinect-games-at-Tokyo-Game-Show HAWX 2 review: The mild blue yonder http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31954-HAWX-2-review-The-mild-blue-yonder&goto=newpost Wed, 08 Sep 2010 22:10:09 GMT Image: http://www.blogcdn.com/www.joystiq.com/media/2010/09/hawx2.review-530px.png ...
By naming its flight combat franchise "HAWX," Ubisoft created an expectation of ... something more. Something to do with the letter "X." It wasn't "HAWKS" -- that X was a built-in promise, right there in the title, of something x-otic and x-treme. While the first game in the series attempted to make the genre a little more x-citing, its sequel isn't so much a thrilling melange of dogfights and bombing runs as it is a simulation of working nine to five for a missile and bomb delivery service.

Hey, a game where you pilot a flying UPS truck -- that could be pretty neat! Oh, sorry. See, I'm already forgetting HAWX 2. Let me get this all down before I move on to something more exciting, like a documentary on how they make packing peanuts.Gallery: H.A.W.X. 2


Continue reading HAWX 2 review: The mild blue yonder

HAWX 2 review: The mild blue yonder originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31954-HAWX-2-review-The-mild-blue-yonder Torchlight 2 will offer free mod tools, full mod support in multiplayer http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31953-Torchlight-2-will-offer-free-mod-tools-full-mod-support-in-multiplayer&goto=newpost Wed, 08 Sep 2010 21:40:08 GMT Image: http://www.blogcdn.com/www.joystiq.com/media/2010/09/torchlight530.jpg ...
A lot of people have been making a big deal out of multiplayer in Torchlight 2 -- and rightfully so -- but not so much talk has been about modding. The first game had a substantial mod community, thanks in part to Runic Games offering mod tools for free to all players. And during my demo of the game at PAX, a Runic rep confirmed that the company will once again freely distribute mod tools to the public.

But because of the addition of multiplayer, I was concerned about how mods will be shared now. The rep confirmed to me that players will be able to use the new multiplayer framework to find games incorporating mods but, better yet, all XP earned in these games will stay with your character. I was promised persistence across all games, be they mods or standard games.

One final interesting tidbit: all loot dropped in multiplayer games will be client specific. This means that the items you see in your game are only in your game. No need for mad dashes to grab all the high-level loot drops!
Gallery: Torchlight 2 (art)


Torchlight 2 will offer free mod tools, full mod support in multiplayer originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31953-Torchlight-2-will-offer-free-mod-tools-full-mod-support-in-multiplayer Rock Band 3 trailer shows off the power of love (and keyboards) http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31952-Rock-Band-3-trailer-shows-off-the-power-of-love-(and-keyboards)&goto=newpost Wed, 08 Sep 2010 21:20:37 GMT Image:...
Don't call it a keytar! If you've been waiting for a chance to see Rock Band 3's new keyboard in action, Harmonix delivers just that in its latest trailer for October's music/rhythm release. We're certainly enticed by its addition to regular gameplay, but that Pro mode? Well, we'll leave it to ... someone else.Continue reading Rock Band 3 trailer shows off the power of love (and keyboards)

Rock Band 3 trailer shows off the power of love (and keyboards) originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 17:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31952-Rock-Band-3-trailer-shows-off-the-power-of-love-(and-keyboards) Mass Effect 2 Shadow Broker DLC review: required reading http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31951-Mass-Effect-2-Shadow-Broker-DLC-review-required-reading&goto=newpost Wed, 08 Sep 2010 20:50:08 GMT Image: http://www.blogcdn.com/www.joystiq.com/media/2010/09/masseffect2liaradlc.jpg ...

The Lair of the Shadow Broker is the perfect epilogue for Mass Effect 2, adding closure to an important story arc, and offering a brief glimpse at the potential of Mass Effect 3. It's unarguably essential content for the Mass Effect fan: not only does the DLC push the canon forward, it provides some of the most thrilling action in the franchise thus far. There's a new alien race, a new Spectre, the best boss battle in the series, heck, there's even a car chase. It's a thrill ride, albeit a brief one.

Liara's return in Mass Effect 2 has had a rather divisive effect amongst fans, many who found disliked her unexpectedly dark turn. The prequel comic Mass Effect Redemption offers some insight into her drastic personality change -- her search for Shepard's body led to a messy exchange with the Shadow Broker, a mysterious entity that's been teased throughout both Mass Effect games. The DLC gives you new information on the Shadow Broker's whereabouts, courtesy of Cerberus, which gives you reason to return to Liara on Illium. Exactly who is the Shadow Broker and what does he do with the information at his disposal? How does Liara want to exact her revenge? These questions are all finally answered.
Gallery: Mass Effect 2 ("Lair of the Shadow Broker" DLC)


Continue reading Mass Effect 2 Shadow Broker DLC review: required reading

Mass Effect 2 Shadow Broker DLC review: required reading originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31951-Mass-Effect-2-Shadow-Broker-DLC-review-required-reading <![CDATA[Video: Halo: Reach 'Tip of the Spear' Bungie dev walkthrough]]> http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31950-Video-Halo-Reach-Tip-of-the-Spear-Bungie-dev-walkthrough&goto=newpost Wed, 08 Sep 2010 20:30:06 GMT Image:...
Here's the thing: we refuse to watch this video. Sorry, guys, but Halo: Reach is a little less than a week away and we want to go into it fresh. Still, not everyone has the same desire to remain pure, so for those of you chomping at the bit for more Reach stuff, head on past the break for a video walkthrough of "Tip of the Spear." If you need us, we'll have our fingers firmly planted in our ears, shouting "la-la-la-la-la-la-we-can't-hear-you!"
Gallery: Halo: Reach (Tip of the Spear)


Continue reading Video: Halo: Reach 'Tip of the Spear' Bungie dev walkthrough

Video: Halo: Reach 'Tip of the Spear' Bungie dev walkthrough originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31950-Video-Halo-Reach-Tip-of-the-Spear-Bungie-dev-walkthrough DSi firmware 1.4.1U update blocks certain flash carts http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31948-DSi-firmware-1.4.1U-update-blocks-certain-flash-carts&goto=newpost Wed, 08 Sep 2010 20:10:45 GMT Image: http://www.blogcdn.com/www.joystiq.com/media/2010/09/dsiblack-530.jpg ...
Nintendo has released a new firmware update for the DSi -- the first update in over a year. The update does not add any new functionality to the device, but instead provides "behind-the-scenes improvements to system performance." Translation: Several DSi flash cartridges, which enable the use of homebrew or pirated software, have been blocked.

According to GBAtemp.net, the affected carts include (but aren't necessarily limited to) the Acekard 2i, Supercard DSTwo, M3i Zero, iPlayer and DSTTi. A handful of carts are reportedly unaffected by the update, including the EZ-Flash Vi, iSmart DS and Hyper R4i.

And thus the cycle begins anew, with hackers diligently hacking away at Nintendo's new anti-piracy efforts (which didn't take too long last time). Joystiq does not condone piracy, but flash cartridges also have plenty of legal, entertaining uses. For example, did you know the DS makes a handy SCUMM emulator?DSi firmware 1.4.1U update blocks certain flash carts originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31948-DSi-firmware-1.4.1U-update-blocks-certain-flash-carts <![CDATA[XBLA in Brief: Plants vs Zombies, Dance! It's Your Stage]]> http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31946-XBLA-in-Brief-Plants-vs-Zombies-Dance!-It-s-Your-Stage&goto=newpost Wed, 08 Sep 2010 19:40:18 GMT Image: http://www.blogcdn.com/www.joystiq.com/media/2010/09/pvzplay.jpg ...
Welcome back, Briefanatics! After a short, Summer of Arcade-induced hiatus, XBLA in Brief is back again to give you a heads up on the latest games to hit Xbox Live Arcade. This week we hail the long-awaited arrival of Plants vs Zombies and ... well, Dance! It's Your Stage is available too.

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There are new Xbox Live Arcade games released every week. We realize that our readers are busy, attractive people, and may not have time to download and examine each and every new XBLA game. You've got busy, attractive person stuff to do, after all. Not to worry though, because we've done the work for you, downloading every single trial game and giving you a taste of what to expect. Watch XBLA in Brief every week to see which games deserve a closer look. When you have the time, of course.Continue reading XBLA in Brief: Plants vs Zombies, Dance! It's Your Stage

XBLA in Brief: Plants vs Zombies, Dance! It's Your Stage originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 15:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31946-XBLA-in-Brief-Plants-vs-Zombies-Dance!-It-s-Your-Stage Mindjack moves to 2011 http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31943-Mindjack-moves-to-2011&goto=newpost Wed, 08 Sep 2010 19:20:29 GMT Image: http://www.blogcdn.com/www.joystiq.com/media/2010/06/mindjacky.jpg ...
We hope you've mentally prepared yourself for this: Square Enix's Mindjack has been delayed until 2011. Siliconera received confirmation from the publisher that the Feelplus (Lost Odyssey, N3 II: Ninety-Nine Nights) developed title would not be making its scheduled October launch.

Square recently adopted an educational stance in a "how to play" video, showing off the shooter's frantic, out-of-body respawning feature. lt looked a little rough, so a delay seems prudent . And besides, Q4 2010 is already packed.Mindjack moves to 2011 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31943-Mindjack-moves-to-2011 <![CDATA[Tsunoda describes Kinect's object-scanning, controller-wielding future]]> http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31942-Tsunoda-describes-Kinect-s-object-scanning-controller-wielding-future&goto=newpost Wed, 08 Sep 2010 19:00:04 GMT Image: http://www.blogcdn.com/www.joystiq.com/media/2010/09/530nataluseowngear.jpg ...
One of the cooler features Microsoft touted in its first Project Natal (now Kinect) video was the ability to scan objects and use them in your games. Unfortunately, that feature is nowhere to be found in any Kinect game announced so far, and Microsoft has been mum on the subject ... until now. Kinect mastermind Kudo Tsunoda told Eurogamer that although current games may not utilize it now, it's something we can expect in future titles. "Being able to digitise real-world objects and take them into the virtual world ... I think we're going to see a lot more games start using that as well as we go forward."

The future of Kinect won't be entirely controller-free, either. While Sony has taken shots at the Kinect's lack of button input, Tsunoda says that "it's not like we're trying to take controllers out of the equation." While the current library is focused on an entirely controller-free experience, Tsunoda says that "games that involve both controllers and Kinect as well are totally possible."

"That's one of the unique things about the Xbox platform: we can do controllers; we can do controllers with Kinect, which is more than just motion control, it has voice and human recognition as well." So Kudo, when are you going to reveal the head-tracking enabled, voice-command Halo tactical FPS we just imagined?Tsunoda describes Kinect's object-scanning, controller-wielding future originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 14:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31942-Tsunoda-describes-Kinect-s-object-scanning-controller-wielding-future The DIY Harmonix booth at PAX, replete with Han in carbonite and suit of armor http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31941-The-DIY-Harmonix-booth-at-PAX-replete-with-Han-in-carbonite-and-suit-of-armor&goto=newpost Wed, 08 Sep 2010 18:40:19 GMT Image:...
Last month, "community dude" HMXHenry took to the Penny Arcade forums to enlist the community there to help Harmonix decorate its PAX Prime booth. As you can see in the photo gallery below, it's a particularly modest presentation, but look out for highlights like the suit of armor and a life-sized Han Solo in carbonite! But it's all about the games, right? Fans, including Splosion Man, could walk right up and play the Kinect-ified Dance Central and the fully unlocked Rock Band 3.
Gallery: The Harmonix PAX Prime 2010 booth



The DIY Harmonix booth at PAX, replete with Han in carbonite and suit of armor originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 14:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31941-The-DIY-Harmonix-booth-at-PAX-replete-with-Han-in-carbonite-and-suit-of-armor Download iOS 4.1 now, get Game Center (on your compatible iProduct) http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31940-Download-iOS-4.1-now-get-Game-Center-(on-your-compatible-iProduct)&goto=newpost Wed, 08 Sep 2010 18:10:26 GMT Image: http://www.blogcdn.com/www.joystiq.com/media/2010/09/jobsheaderimg530px.jpg ...
"Boom!" as one Mr. Steve Jobs might say. Just as promised, iOS 4.1 is available for download through iTunes and, with it, we have Apple's Game Center, the company's first foray into a more connected gaming experience. As seen on the slide above, Game Center offers multiplayer games, matchmaking, leaderboards, and new ways of discovering games. Of course, while iOS 4.1 will run on all sorts of iProducts, Game Center only works on post-3G iPhones and iPod Touches.

With Xbox Live coming to Windows Phone 7 in just a couple months, and rumors of PlayStation integration on the Android platform, things are about to get wild on the mobile gaming front. If you're the early adoption type, fire up iTunes and get downloading. If you're the wait-and-see type, maybe the early adopters will share their progress in the comments. We'll go first: Update complete, everything's working fine.
Download iOS 4.1 now, get Game Center (on your compatible iProduct) originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 14:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31940-Download-iOS-4.1-now-get-Game-Center-(on-your-compatible-iProduct) Ace Attorney Investigations 2 announced, coming to TGS http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31938-Ace-Attorney-Investigations-2-announced-coming-to-TGS&goto=newpost Wed, 08 Sep 2010 17:50:26 GMT Image: http://www.blogcdn.com/www.joystiq.com/media/2010/09/aainvest2wb.jpg ...
Sure, the weather in Tokyo may be frightful right now, but there's good reason to fly over for TGS. The latest issue of Famitsu has revealed a sequel to Edgeworth-starring adventure Ace Attorney Investigations. According to a Siliconera report, Capcom's new courtroom caper will include new kinds of game systems, including one that's supposedly chess-like. (How appropriate!)

Further investigation has yet to reveal additional details, but we can deduce using logic (and enthusiasm) that Ace Attorney fans will demand an English localization. Any rebuttals?Ace Attorney Investigations 2 announced, coming to TGS originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31938-Ace-Attorney-Investigations-2-announced-coming-to-TGS <![CDATA[Microsoft apologizes for suspending 'Fort Gay' gamer]]> http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31937-Microsoft-apologizes-for-suspending-Fort-Gay-gamer&goto=newpost Wed, 08 Sep 2010 17:21:47 GMT Image:...
Microsoft has apologized to a 26-year-old gamer after suspending him from Xbox Live. Microsoft took the action based on Josh Moore's online profile, which listed "Fort Gay" as his location. It turns out that nobody Binged Fort Gay, West Virginia, the happy hamlet of 819 citizens. Heads-up, Microsoft: Mount Gay, West Virginia is also a real place.

Xbox Live enforcement master Stephen Toulouse acknowledged the mistake and said that the training of his banhammer-wielding team had already been updated. Microsoft altered its Xbox Live policy earlier this year to allow acknowledgement of sexual orientation terms for people, following concerns over the company's policies toward the GLBT community.Microsoft apologizes for suspending 'Fort Gay' gamer originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31937-Microsoft-apologizes-for-suspending-Fort-Gay-gamer Battlefield: Bad Company 2 Vietnam getting first showing at TGS http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31936-Battlefield-Bad-Company-2-Vietnam-getting-first-showing-at-TGS&goto=newpost Wed, 08 Sep 2010 16:50:27 GMT Image: http://www.blogcdn.com/www.joystiq.com/media/2010/06/bfbc2vietnam.jpg ...
EA has been mum on Battlefield: Bad Company 2 Vietnam since announcing the multiplayer-only expansion during its E3 press conference three months ago. But Battlefield Community Manager zh1nt0 says that's about to change. "I am going to Tokyo Game Show to showcase Battlefield: Bad Company 2 Vietnam for the first time," he said on the studio's Battlefield Blog.

He reiterated the original feature set - "4 brand new maps built in Frostbite, as well as Vietnam specific weapons, vehicles, persistence, unlocks, and achievements/trophies" - and, well, that's about it. We're shipping out to Tokyo next week where we'll rendezvous with the expansion and deliver the intel back here. Still think they're going to hit that "this winter" release window?
Battlefield: Bad Company 2 Vietnam getting first showing at TGS originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31936-Battlefield-Bad-Company-2-Vietnam-getting-first-showing-at-TGS Katamari Damacy creator Keita Takahashi leaves Namco http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31935-Katamari-Damacy-creator-Keita-Takahashi-leaves-Namco&goto=newpost Wed, 08 Sep 2010 16:20:14 GMT Image:... King of all kings of the cosmos -- Katamari Damacy and Noby Noby Boy creator Keita Takahashi -- is leaving Namco, reports Play.tm. A Namco representative confirmed Takahashi's resignation.

The developer expressed his dissatisfaction in the past with developing for the Japanese publisher, even saying he was disappointed with the support he received for Noby Noby Boy. He's also expressed interest in branching out to other careers, telling the BBC in 2005, "In 10 years time, I am not going to be making games any more." More recently, he got to work on plans for a playground in Nottingham, UK.

[Image credit: jontintinjordan]
Katamari Damacy creator Keita Takahashi leaves Namco originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31935-Katamari-Damacy-creator-Keita-Takahashi-leaves-Namco Gladiator Begins review: Do I not entertain? http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31934-Gladiator-Begins-review-Do-I-not-entertain&goto=newpost Wed, 08 Sep 2010 16:10:13 GMT Image: http://www.blogcdn.com/www.joystiq.com/media/2010/09/gladreview.jpg Despite...
Despite its long list of problems, Gladiator Begins gets the most important thing right: beating, bashing and slicing dudes feels good. It's just as well, because that's the only thing this PSP game ever lets you do.

The premise is simple to a fault: You hop in a box with Roman slaves and then stab 'em until they're dead. That's it. For some, non-stop brawling makes for the best kind of action game; the beat-'em-up genre's survived on this kind of repetition. Gladiator even takes advantage of a handful of elements inspired by role-playing, which keeps things from getting stale too quickly.
Gallery: Gladiator Begins


Continue reading Gladiator Begins review: Do I not entertain?

Gladiator Begins review: Do I not entertain? originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31934-Gladiator-Begins-review-Do-I-not-entertain Dissidia Duodecim: Final Fantasy coming to PSP next year http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31933-Dissidia-Duodecim-Final-Fantasy-coming-to-PSP-next-year&goto=newpost Wed, 08 Sep 2010 16:00:09 GMT Image:...
Square Enix just revealed in the latest issue of Shonen Jump (via Siliconera) that a sequel to Dissidia: Final Fantasy will arrive on Japanese PSPs sometime in 2011. Titled "Dissidia Duodecim: Final Fantasy," the new fighter was created specifically as a challenge to website copy editors.

Outside of FFIV's Kain and FFXIII's Lightning, no other playable characters have been confirmed. We get the feeling you'll see an expanded roster of fan-favorite brawlers at next week's Tokyo Game Show.Dissidia Duodecim: Final Fantasy coming to PSP next year originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31933-Dissidia-Duodecim-Final-Fantasy-coming-to-PSP-next-year Street Fighter High: The Musical, in 2 parts http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31932-Street-Fighter-High-The-Musical-in-2-parts&goto=newpost Wed, 08 Sep 2010 15:42:08 GMT Image:...
Some Street Fighter fans showed their love by purchasing both Street Fighter IV and Super Street Fighter IV. Others made an elaborate high school musical.Continue reading Street Fighter High: The Musical, in 2 parts

Street Fighter High: The Musical, in 2 parts originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31932-Street-Fighter-High-The-Musical-in-2-parts NBA Jam East rosters revealed, legends included http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31931-NBA-Jam-East-rosters-revealed-legends-included&goto=newpost Wed, 08 Sep 2010 15:21:16 GMT Image:...
"Mr. NBA 2K11" is still noticeably absent from NBA Jam's Eastern Conference roster, which does boast the likes of Bird, Dr. J and Jordan sidekick Scottie Pippen. Even Drazen Petrovic, who is said to haunt the original arcade game and was removed from console versions following his death in a car accident, has been resurrected as a Nets legend. Of course, the new NBA Jam will feature plenty of current players, including the Miami Thrice, when it's released next month for Wii and as a downloadable bonus with new copies of NBA Elite 11 for Xbox 360 and PS3.

Each team has 3-4 active players, as determined by fan voting (with the exception of Gilbert Arenas, who made the cut but was left out of the voting after that handgun fiasco), explains ESPN, which obtained the complete game roster -- the West's stars to be posted next week. Additionally, most teams have a "legend" or two -- or three for the Knicks: Ewing, LJ and Starks (hey, they need help!) -- on hand, with a preference for the original arcade's stars (sorry Zo!). Some teams don't have a long or storied enough history to feature a legend, in which case EA has added the team's mascot to the bench -- or in the Pacers' case (a contractual hiccup with Reggie Miller), there's simply ... Schrempf.

Some late summer trades also contribute to a few oddities in the final rosters, with Courtney Lee (now a Houston Rocket) still on the Nets and Al Harrington (now in Denver) still a Knick. It's unlikely the Wii version will be patched after release, and EA Sports community manager Alain Quinto recently confirmed (in response to the question) that it wouldn't feature online multiplayer either.

Head past the break for the full Eastern Conference breakdown.Continue reading NBA Jam East rosters revealed, legends included

NBA Jam East rosters revealed, legends included originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31931-NBA-Jam-East-rosters-revealed-legends-included <![CDATA[Halo: Reach 'Deliver Hope' live-action short released in full]]> http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31930-Halo-Reach-Deliver-Hope-live-action-short-released-in-full&goto=newpost Wed, 08 Sep 2010 15:10:17 GMT Image:...
Soul-stirring music? Check! Gigantic battles and fancy special effects? Check check! That's right, folks -- it's another Halo: Reach live-action short. This time, the original "Deliver Hope" video is extended to over two minutes of apocalyptic action.Continue reading Halo: Reach 'Deliver Hope' live-action short released in full

Halo: Reach 'Deliver Hope' live-action short released in full originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31930-Halo-Reach-Deliver-Hope-live-action-short-released-in-full Final Fantasy XIII Ultimate Hits International confirmed for Xbox 360 in Japan http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31929-Final-Fantasy-XIII-Ultimate-Hits-International-confirmed-for-Xbox-360-in-Japan&goto=newpost Wed, 08 Sep 2010 14:51:48 GMT Image:...
Square Enix has confirmed the forthcoming release of FFXIII on Xbox 360 in Japan, dubbed "Final Fantasy XIII Ultimate Hits International." The game will be released in December and features English voice acting with Japanese subtitles (other subtitle options are also available). Despite early reports of the release, no additional content will arrive with FFXIII -- it differs from the PlayStation 3 version in Japan in that it will feature content originally only in the US release. It will also add an easy mode and "Final Fantasy XIII - Episode 1" (a short story book).

Square Enix producer Yoshinori Kitase told Famitsu (via Gamasutra) that the new version was spurred by the launch of the remodeled 360 earlier this year, which aimed to bolster the console's install base in Japan. "We feel that there are ... a lot of people in Japan who own nothing but 360s. Thanks to the new system and such, the situation's a lot different than it was in July 2008," he explained. FFXIII will be the first Xbox 360 title released under Square's "Ultimate Hits" budget line, dropping at &yen;4,980 ($59.50) on December 16.Final Fantasy XIII Ultimate Hits International confirmed for Xbox 360 in Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31929-Final-Fantasy-XIII-Ultimate-Hits-International-confirmed-for-Xbox-360-in-Japan <![CDATA[Dr. Kawashima trains brains on Kinect with Namco's 'Respond With Your Body: New Brain]]> http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31928-Dr.-Kawashima-trains-brains-on-Kinect-with-Namco-s-Respond-With-Your-Body-New-Brain&goto=newpost Wed, 08 Sep 2010 14:20:06 GMT Image:...
Just when you thought you couldn't train your brain any more, Dr. Ryuta Kawashima - the Tokyo University-based professor who turned "brain training" into a video game hit with Nintendo's Brain Age series - is bringing his particular brand of supposed self-improvement to Microsoft's Kinect this November. Instead of using the DS stylus, Karada de Kotareu Atarashii Nou-tore (or "Respond With Your Body: New Brain Training," as translated by Andriasang) tasks one to four players with moving their body to solve problems. For example: Align your arms, analog clock-style, to match a digital time. Your performance will be used to assign an age to your brain (sound familiar?).

You can see some examples in the Japanese trailer embedded below; pay attention or you'll miss the Pac-Man-themed challenge right around the one-minute mark. The game was announced today in Japan as a November 20th Japanese launch title for Kinect, and will retail for &yen;6,279. No word yet on a US release, but with the Tokyo Game Show next week, we expect to learn more.Continue reading Dr. Kawashima trains brains on Kinect with Namco's 'Respond With Your Body: New Brain Training'

Dr. Kawashima trains brains on Kinect with Namco's 'Respond With Your Body: New Brain Training' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 10:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31928-Dr.-Kawashima-trains-brains-on-Kinect-with-Namco-s-Respond-With-Your-Body-New-Brain Kinect Xbox 360 250GB bundle announced http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31927-Kinect-Xbox-360-250GB-bundle-announced&goto=newpost Wed, 08 Sep 2010 14:01:07 GMT Image:...
A month after popping up on the side of the Aussie Kinect bundle box, Microsoft has officially announced the existence of the Xbox 360 Kinect bundle with 250GB hard drive. The package, launching November 4, includes an Xbox 360 with a 250GB hard drive, built-in Wi-Fi, a Kinect sensor and Kinect Adventures for $400.

On the same day, the Kinect hardware will launch on its own at $150, alongisde the Kinect 4GB Xbox 360 bundle for $300. There's also the option of purchasing the 250GB hard drive for the S version of the console separately, but that's $130. At this point, the latest announced bundle is the best value for those looking to get the whole package. Oh, and they still sell Xbox 360s that only come with plain ol' controllers, if that's your thing.Kinect Xbox 360 250GB bundle announced originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.




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More... ]]> The Feed Joystiq http://www.thedigitalset.com/forums/showthread.php?31927-Kinect-Xbox-360-250GB-bundle-announced