Joystiq [Xbox] http://xbox.joystiq.com Joystiq [Xbox] http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/xbox.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq [Xbox] http://xbox.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[JBO: Joystiq Box Office, November 16 - November 20]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/jbo-joystiq-box-office-november-16-november-20/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/jbo-joystiq-box-office-november-16-november-20/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/jbo-joystiq-box-office-november-16-november-20/#comments

We can't be gaming all the time, despite our best efforts, and from time to time we'll actually take advantage of the movie-playing abilities on our gaming systems. JBO features our top picks for XBL, PSN, Netflix's Watch Instantly and Blu-ray each week.

Recommendation of the Week:

North by Northwest: 50th Anniversary Edition (Blu-ray)
It's been 50 years since Alfred Hitchcock's classic North by Northwest first appeared in theaters, and Warner Bros. has put together an amazing package that includes a new one hour documentary about Hitchcock called "The Master's Touch: Hitchcock's Signature Style," and a new half-hour documentary about the film itself. It also carries over older extras like a documentary about Cary Grant, commentary and more. It's packaged in the Warner Blu-ray Book format that I loathed at first, but now love: No inserts or booklets to lose, and they look fantastic on a shelf. You've probably seen the iconic image of Cary Grant running in terror from a biplane, but never seen North by Northwest. For my money, it's his best film.


Read on for the rest of the recommendations, and as usual, we'll see you at the popcorn sta -- well, actually, we won't see you at all. But you catch our drift. Plus, be sure to tell us what you'll be watching, or what you've seen recently that bowled you over.

Continue reading JBO: Joystiq Box Office, November 16 - November 20

JoystiqJBO: Joystiq Box Office, November 16 - November 20 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 21:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Blu-rayDVDfilmJBOJoystiq-Box--OfficeMoviesNetflixvideoZuneFri, 20 Nov 2009 21:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Banned PSN player sues Nintendo and Microsoft]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/banned-psn-player-sues-nintendo-and-microsoft/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/banned-psn-player-sues-nintendo-and-microsoft/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/banned-psn-player-sues-nintendo-and-microsoft/#comments After being banned from the PlayStation Network for hateful comments stated in Resistance's online community, Erik Estavillo launched not one, but two, lawsuits against Sony for infringing on his "first amendment rights" -- an argument that was shot down by Judge Ronald Whyte simply because "Sony is not part of the government."

However, what Estavillo lacks in civil online discourse, he makes up for with sheer determination and persistence. In addition to Sony, he now has both Microsoft and Nintendo in his sights. Estavillo is seeking $75,000 from Microsoft for the "undue stress" and "sadness" caused by his Xbox 360's RROD. "Microsoft should have to bear the burden that is now put on the shoulders of this disabled plaintiff," his claim states -- a burden that is equivalent to the sum of 375 Xbox 360 systems, apparently. Nintendo is being sued for interfering with Estavillo's "pursuit of happiness." And how exactly is Nintendo doing that? "Deleting, blocking or prohibiting the Homebrew Channel and Ocarina applications" via a system update.

We're hoping you can see the sheer brilliance of Estavillo's strategy. He's offering the perfect opportunity for PlayStation, Xbox and Nintendo fans to agree on something for once.

JoystiqBanned PSN player sues Nintendo and Microsoft originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>erik-estavillohomebrewlawsuitmicrosoftnintendorrodxbox-360Fri, 20 Nov 2009 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 release of No More Heroes may be censored in Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/xbox-360-release-of-no-more-heroes-may-be-censored-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/xbox-360-release-of-no-more-heroes-may-be-censored-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/xbox-360-release-of-no-more-heroes-may-be-censored-in-japan/#commentsJapanese retailer Amiami includes a note on its listing for the Xbox 360 version of No More Heroes: Heroes' Paradise that suggests that because it is based on the North American version of the Wii original, it is likely to carry the CERO Z rating (think an ESRB M rating, but harsher) when it is released in February. Because it is the North American version (with "bloodshed" intact), the site says, it will hold a special appeal for game fans.

The same message doesn't appear on the PS3 version's listing, suggesting that it'll be the same censored game that was originally released in Japan. CERO Z-rated games often don't get displayed on shelves, so if this is accurate, it'll ensure that only the hardcore will even know about the Xbox 360 version of the game. That would limit sales severely, if sales weren't already limited severely by its status as an Xbox 360 game in Japan.

[Via Siliconera]

JoystiqXbox 360 release of No More Heroes may be censored in Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cerograsshopper-manufacturejapanmarvelousno-more-heroesno-more-heroes-heroes-paradiseFri, 20 Nov 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[British Intelligence recruiting Xbox gamers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/british-intelligence-recruiting-xbox-gamers/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/british-intelligence-recruiting-xbox-gamers/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/british-intelligence-recruiting-xbox-gamers/#comments
The Guardian reports that British Intelligence is looking for a few good men. Specifically, the Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ) is running ads on the Xbox 360 dashboard and within Xbox games to recruit new members. The GCHQ, which works with both MI5 and MI6 (yes, that MI6), seeks to recruit young people with an affinity for "quick thinking, problem solving and team work." GCHQ believes that these criteria are "reflected in game-play experiences on Xbox."

We're expecting a new generation of foul-mouthed, teabagging James Bonds any day now.

JoystiqBritish Intelligence recruiting Xbox gamers originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adsadvertisingbritish-intelligencegchqin-game-advertisingFri, 20 Nov 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Worms 2 gets patched up on XBLA]]>http://xbox.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/worms-2-gets-patched-up-on-xbla/http://xbox.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/worms-2-gets-patched-up-on-xbla/http://xbox.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/worms-2-gets-patched-up-on-xbla/#comments We've all felt the pain of pressing the jump button a second time just barely too late in a game of Worms 2, sending a brave worm soldier free falling off the side of a mountain or, worse yet, into the watery depths below. Recognizing that the game might have some issues - and rather than simply calling us "newbs" like most people do - Worms 2 developers Team17 have just released a patch aimed at ailing all that is wrong with the adorable multiplayer strategy games.

Listing everything from "Back flip input slowed down to stop incorrect jumps harming the player" to "Fixed bug which made crates in Forts matches only land on the right hand side," as well as a slurry of other fixes, Team17 seems to have given the nearly five-month-old release a full overhaul. An overhaul that'll perhaps feel all the more worthwhile when the developers make good on next year's DLC for the game. In the meantime, we'll be over here waiting for you with a Buffalo of Lies.

[Via CVG]

Joystiq XboxWorms 2 gets patched up on XBLA originally appeared on Joystiq Xbox on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>multiplayerpatchteam17wormsworms-2worms-2-armageddonxblaxbox-liveFri, 20 Nov 2009 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview: Left 4 Dead 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/metareview-left-4-dead-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/metareview-left-4-dead-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/metareview-left-4-dead-2/#comments Considering the devilishly heightened difficulty of Left 4 Dead 2, we're surprised enough outlets managed to complete a single campaign in time to submit a review for the title. We have to imagine GameSharks were somehow involved. Regardless, here's what other sites are saying about Valve's follow-up to last year's Zombocalypse survival sim.
  • Eurogamer (9/10): "Whereas once we treated Left 4 Dead as a stopgap between Half-Lifes, this is no longer a weird little side project with modest expectations, and Valve is confident enough to play around with it, safe in the knowledge that you can trust your players. Left 4 Dead proved it. And whereas that game had a personality, this one is overflowing with it."
  • IGN (9/10): "It remains one of the most distinctive co-operative titles out there, and allows for some of the most nerve-searing team-based multiplayer gaming on the market."
  • GameTrailers (8.7/10): "Though not an astounding improvement over the original, Left 4 Dead 2 successfully rekindles that magical zombie-hunting feeling with great new content, and a cool competitive multiplayer mode to boot."
  • Giant Bomb (4/5 Stars): "The core of Left 4 Dead may have lost some of its newness in the last 12 months, but the wealth of additions in this sequel ought to keep you blasting zombies and munching on brains for a good long while."

JoystiqMetareview: Left 4 Dead 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>left-4-dead-2metareviewvalveFri, 20 Nov 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jurassic: The Hunted demo now on Xbox Live]]>http://xbox.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/jurassic-the-hunted-demo-now-on-xbox-live/http://xbox.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/jurassic-the-hunted-demo-now-on-xbox-live/http://xbox.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/jurassic-the-hunted-demo-now-on-xbox-live/#comments As a child, we were really into dinosaurs. Jurassic Park was our favorite movie, Dinosaucers was our favorite TV show and Yummy Mummy was our favorite cereal (that's not dinosaur-related, but we didn't want to lie to make the story better). So as we played the new demo for Jurassic: The Hunted, we couldn't help but feel that, with every shot, we were blowing away some small part of our innocence.

But then we pretended that each dinosaur was the one that ate Robert Muldoon, and we felt loads better. If you download the sample, which features a taste of the 'Survivor' arena mode, we'd recommend doing the same.

Joystiq XboxJurassic: The Hunted demo now on Xbox Live originally appeared on Joystiq Xbox on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisiondemosfpsjurassic-the-huntedxbox-liveFri, 20 Nov 2009 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rock Band Weekly: Tom Petty, Go-Go's, Kelly Clarkson, Pink]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/rock-band-weekly-tom-petty-go-gos-kelly-clarkson-pink/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/rock-band-weekly-tom-petty-go-gos-kelly-clarkson-pink/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/rock-band-weekly-tom-petty-go-gos-kelly-clarkson-pink/#comments A live version of Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers' "Mary Jane's Last Dance" is available next week within the band's Rock Band DLC six-pack. The song may not be everyone's cup of formaldehyde, but it's certainly memorable for conjuring up one of the creepiest music videos of all time. We have no idea what the song is actually about, but it will always be the story of Tom Petty stealing Kim Basinger's corpse from the morgue, dressing her up, and then at the end .... AHHhhHhHHHH!

Check out the full update after the break, no new Rock Band Unplugged DLC next week.


Select a platform below to view complete DLC listing:

Continue reading Rock Band Weekly: Tom Petty, Go-Go's, Kelly Clarkson, Pink

JoystiqRock Band Weekly: Tom Petty, Go-Go's, Kelly Clarkson, Pink originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcgo-gosharmonixkelly-clarksonmtv-gamespinkrock-bandrock-band-2rock-band-unpluggedrock-band-weeklyrock-band-wiirock-band-wiiklytom-pettyFri, 20 Nov 2009 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[RE5: Lost in Nightmares teaser goes back to the mansion]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/re5-lost-in-nightmares-teaser-goes-back-to-the-mansion/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/re5-lost-in-nightmares-teaser-goes-back-to-the-mansion/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/re5-lost-in-nightmares-teaser-goes-back-to-the-mansion/#commentsJill Valentine knows what's up: Only the most refined individual understands the elegance of the crank. Chris Redfield and his personal gun show may complain that an entire mansion is being run on the archaic device in this teaser for upcoming Resident Evil 5 DLC episode, Lost in Nightmares, but that's because the dude doesn't respect the crank's noble history. We're just glad one of the two survivalists has enough class to acknowledge the significance of history's great gate opener.

JoystiqRE5: Lost in Nightmares teaser goes back to the mansion originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>albert-weskercapcomchris-redfielddlcjill-valentinelost-in-nightmaresre5resident-evilresident-evil-5resident-evil-5-alternative-editionresident-evil-5-gold-editionvideoFri, 20 Nov 2009 11:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Pre-order 'Mass: We Pray' for free Dante's Inferno trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/pre-order-mass-we-pray-for-free-dantes-inferno-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/pre-order-mass-we-pray-for-free-dantes-inferno-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/pre-order-mass-we-pray-for-free-dantes-inferno-trailer/#commentsWe had an icky feeling when we first watched the Mass: We Pray teaser. Not because of the toll excessive devotional gameplay might take on our souls, but because we were pretty sure we were being virally marketed to in some way or another. It turns out, our unease (also felt by a few others, including The Escapist) was spot on, as We Pray has been revealed as the latest move in the Dante's Inferno marketing campaign's fight against good taste.

Clicking to pre-order the game on the website or to get a better look at the controllers, now triggers a message about heresy, along with a trailer for Dante's Inferno and a link to the Facebook app, "Go to Hell." Sorry if you were looking forward to We Pray!

[Thanks, Thomas]

JoystiqPre-order 'Mass: We Pray' for free Dante's Inferno trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 10:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dantes-infernoeamass-we-praypray-works-interactiveviral-marketingvisceral-gamesFri, 20 Nov 2009 10:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: Left 4 Dead 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/review-left-4-dead-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/review-left-4-dead-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/review-left-4-dead-2/#comments When Valve announced Left 4 Dead 2 during Microsoft's E3 2009 press conference -- less than seven months after the release of the award-winning original -- gamers were, perhaps rightfully, shocked. This was the same Valve that spent nearly ten years iterating on Team Fortress 2 and whose experiment in episodic gaming has forced us to reevaluate our expectations for future installments of Half-Life 2 using the "Star Wars-definition" of episodic.

So when Valve announced a direct sequel to the ground-breaking Left 4 Dead on what could only be considered an accelerated schedule for normal developers (and an impossibly accelerated schedule for Valve) we had every right to be shocked. Valve answered this concern with assurances that Left 4 Dead 2 was an entirely new game, with changes that could not be simply grafted onto the original. And the team was right! ... But that's the problem.

Continue reading Review: Left 4 Dead 2

JoystiqReview: Left 4 Dead 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 08:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EAElectronic-ArtsL4D2Left-4-Dead-2ValveFri, 20 Nov 2009 08:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Child's Play & Harmonix rock San Fran for charity Dec. 9]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/childs-play-and-harmonix-rock-san-fran-for-charity-dec-9/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/childs-play-and-harmonix-rock-san-fran-for-charity-dec-9/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/childs-play-and-harmonix-rock-san-fran-for-charity-dec-9/#comments
Harmonix and Child's Play have announced that they're banding together for a charity benefit Rock Band night at San Francisco's DNA Lounge the night of December 9. "Ümloud!" is an all-ages event organized by GameLife's Chris Kohler, Gamehelper's Joe Markert and Telltale Games' John "Seg" Seggerson, and staffed by a number of Bay Area games bloggers, including yours truly.

The party kicks off at 7PM PT and runs through 2AM PT on December 10, with a suggested $10 donation for admission. Everyone who attends will automagically be made eligible for a chance to win some of the many raffle prizes that'll be awarded throughout the night, but those who wish to donate more can sign up for two different "band packages" -- which include reserved songs and the chance to play on DNA's main stage -- at the Ümloud! site.

Proceeds from the event will go to provide toys and video games to children's hospitals nationwide, including the local Oakland Children's Hospital.

JoystiqChild's Play & Harmonix rock San Fran for charity Dec. 9 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bay-areacaliforniacharitychilds-playharmonixrock-bandsan-franciscoFri, 20 Nov 2009 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Supreme Commander 2 declares war in March, 2010]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/supreme-commander-2-declares-war-march-2-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/supreme-commander-2-declares-war-march-2-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/supreme-commander-2-declares-war-march-2-2010/#comments
Supreme Commander 2 has registered a deployment date of March 2 and 16, 2010, for PC and Xbox 360, respectively. Gas Powered Games' real-time strategy sequel, which is set 25 years after the first game's "Infinite War," will enter retail right in the middle of what we are slowly thinking of calling "the endless Q4." Then again, it is an RTS -- and a console title as well -- so the field isn't as crowded.

The original Supreme Commander was well received back in 2007, and Gas Powered's Creative Director Chris Taylor states that the team has "continually exceeded all of [his] expectations throughout [the] development." Check out the video above and see if you agree with how the game is coming along.

JoystiqSupreme Commander 2 declares war in March, 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gas-powered-gamessquare-enixsupreme-commander-2Fri, 20 Nov 2009 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Crytek hooks up universities with free CryENGINE 3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/crytek-hooks-up-universities-with-free-cryengine-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/crytek-hooks-up-universities-with-free-cryengine-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/crytek-hooks-up-universities-with-free-cryengine-3/#comments If you're somebody attending one of the fine institutions that offer game development courses, you could very well find yourself using CryENGINE 3 soon. Crytek recently announced that it would grant free licenses for its purty new development platform to houses of higher education. It's not the first time the company has offered its goods on the arm for universities, as students also got access CryENGINE 2 back in the day.

Just like the cigarette companies, Crytek's goal is to hook 'em while they're young, as R&D manager Ury Zhilinsky hopes that providing the engine free to schools will help students and teachers "become part of our larger CryENGINE community, so they can create their own innovations and train to become the developers of the future." You know, a future with plenty of CryENGINE 3 in it -- at least up until 2012, anyway.

[Thanks, Casey]

JoystiqCrytek hooks up universities with free CryENGINE 3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>collegecryengine-3crytekschooluniversityThu, 19 Nov 2009 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[DigitalFoundry compares Assassin's Creed II on 360, PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/digitalfoundry-compares-assassins-creed-ii-on-xbox-360-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/digitalfoundry-compares-assassins-creed-ii-on-xbox-360-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/digitalfoundry-compares-assassins-creed-ii-on-xbox-360-ps3/#comments Okay, if you want honesty: we can't usually tell the difference between Xbox 360 and PS3 clips when put side-by-side. We've been gaming since characters were less detailed than gingerbread men, so comparison clips always look like two gateways to the future chugging along next to each other. But if DigitalFoundry tells us there's juddering, then we're inclined to believe them, no matter what juddering actually means.

Luckily, the team seems to be pretty happy with the PS3 version of Assassin's Creed II, following the original iteration's disappointing performance on the platform. That said, though the two consoles versions are much closer to each other this time, the site still leans towards the Xbox 360 version of the game for its sharper picture and smoother performance.

For what it's worth, we think they're both winners.

JoystiqDigitalFoundry compares Assassin's Creed II on 360, PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>assassins-creed-2comparisonubisoftThu, 19 Nov 2009 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Battlefield: Bad Company 2 multiplayer trailer reminds us of the good ol' days]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/new-battlefield-bad-company-2-multiplayer-trailer-reminds-us-of/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/new-battlefield-bad-company-2-multiplayer-trailer-reminds-us-of/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/new-battlefield-bad-company-2-multiplayer-trailer-reminds-us-of/#commentsAhhh yes, flying helicopters from base to base, frantically scrambling to a good vehicle or cover, and the always prudent flag rush -- staples of any good Battlefield: Bad Company online multiplayer match. Maybe you were more into sneaking into a building's attic, blowing a hole in one corner, and carefully sniping the other team from afar? You are our bane!

Ahem, that said, the latest multiplayer trailer for Battlefield: Bad Company 2 above, serves to remind us of all the good times we had the first time around. It also, unfortunately, serves to remind us that the second game still isn't out for another three months. Luckily, some of you will get to enjoy the multiplayer beta starting today. Do us all a favor, folks -- shell the snipers!

JoystiqNew Battlefield: Bad Company 2 multiplayer trailer reminds us of the good ol' days originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bad-companybattlefieldbattlefield-bad-companybattlefield-bad-company-2diceeagameplaymultiplayerpctrailerThu, 19 Nov 2009 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Wal-Mart's Black Friday deals [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/rumor-wal-marts-black-friday-deals/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/rumor-wal-marts-black-friday-deals/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/rumor-wal-marts-black-friday-deals/#comments GamerDeals.net has posted what it claims are Wal-Mart's Black Friday deals and, if accurate, there are some serious savings to be had. Probably the most prominent deal would be the doorbuster on Rock Band 2 Special Edition for PS3 or 360, which will net you the full band kit and the game for a paltry $50. Another impressive deal, shoppers can pick up a PS3, Infamous, "Batman" (Arkham Asylum, we're assuming) and a copy of The Dark Knight for $299. In comparison, the Xbox 360 gets the lukest of lukewarm bundles ever, an Xbox 360 Arcade unit complete with the Madagascar 2 game and both Madagascar movies on DVD.

Other deals include select console titles for between $7 and $25, select PC games for $25 and a $98 doorbuster on DS Lites (time to clear that stock, amirite?). Head over to GamerDeals for the full rundown. We were unable to confirm the deals with Wal-Mart, though we were told that the official Black Friday announcement will arrive on Monday, November 23.

Update: Scans of Wal-Mart's ad are online, confirming the deals on the list -- except for the Rock Band 2 deal, which is actually the first Rock Band Special Edition for $50.

JoystiqRumor: Wal-Mart's Black Friday deals [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>black-friday-2009dealswal-martThu, 19 Nov 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Left 4 Dead 2's Midnight Riders get a gloriously bearded teaser page]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/left-4-dead-2s-midnight-riders-get-a-gloriously-bearded-teaser/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/left-4-dead-2s-midnight-riders-get-a-gloriously-bearded-teaser/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/left-4-dead-2s-midnight-riders-get-a-gloriously-bearded-teaser/#comments Zombie obliterators who've managed to survive Left 4 Dead 2's "Dark Carnival" campaign are probably familiar with the Southern rock outfit known as the Midnight Riders. While they're not exactly an enormous focus in the game's overarching story, a teaser page featuring the heavily bearded band (and a cryptic "Coming Soon") is leading some folks to believe that the Riders will soon play a much larger role in the game's proceedings.

Given the number of facial hair-sporting members of the band (see: four), we're really hoping to get some form of DLC that turns them into playable characters. Perhaps even a new campaign, in which they cure the global zombie infection using nothing but the power of their rock music. How about it, Valve?

JoystiqLeft 4 Dead 2's Midnight Riders get a gloriously bearded teaser page originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>left-4-deadleft-4-dead-2midnight-ridersrockteaservalveThu, 19 Nov 2009 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MS announces incoming Games on Demand, Deals of the Week]]>http://xbox.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/ms-announces-incoming-games-on-demand-deals-of-the-week/http://xbox.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/ms-announces-incoming-games-on-demand-deals-of-the-week/http://xbox.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/ms-announces-incoming-games-on-demand-deals-of-the-week/#comments Heading into the Thanksgiving weekend and the beginning of the holiday season, Microsoft has revealed the upcoming additions to Games on Demand and Deals of the Week. On November 23, Games on Demand will see three new entries, Saints Row 2, LEGO Indiana Jones: The Original Adventures and Battlefield: Bad Company.

The same week, there will actually be three Deals of the Week. The Fable II DLC "See the Future," normally 560 ($7) will be knocked down to 400 ($5). Meanwhile, Death Tank, usually 1200 ($15), will be reduced to 800 ($10). As The best deal, however, will be the excellent puzzler Peggle, which will shoot from 800 ($10) to 400 ($5). Pair that with the recently released Peggle Nights expansion (400), and you've got a lot of sweet, sweet Peggle for only $10.

As revealed earlier, Sonic the Hedgehog 2 will the Deal of the Week starting November 30. It will be reduced from 400 ($5) to 240 ($3).

Joystiq XboxMS announces incoming Games on Demand, Deals of the Week originally appeared on Joystiq Xbox on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-bad-companydeal-of-the-weekdeath-tankfable-2lego-indiana-jonespegglesaints-row-2see-the-futuresonic-the-hedgehogsonic-the-hedgehog-2Thu, 19 Nov 2009 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Bayonetta's magical torture fetish explained]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/bayonettas-magical-torture-fetish-explained/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/bayonettas-magical-torture-fetish-explained/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/bayonettas-magical-torture-fetish-explained/#commentsBayonetta has the magical ability -- and macabre desire -- to conjure torture devices for use against her enemies. But why does the hair-clothed, gun-toed heroine of Platinum Games' action game do this? Is she just a horrible person?

In a new developer diary (after the break), Director Hideki "Viewtiful" Kamiya explains that Bayonetta and her fellow witches have suffered through torture themselves, and so she fights not only for survival, but for revenge. Her sadism is a direct result of her own experience previous to the game's events. Plus, as Kamiya says, "It is important players enjoy seeing enemies sadistically destroyed." Do try to enjoy the torture. Otherwise you'll be doing the cruelest attack of all: hurting Kamiya's feelings.
Congratulations to Jonathan on being the first to comment. You've been emailed a free Battlefield: Bad Company 2 beta code. Click here, for more information on this giveaway. Official rules apply.

Continue reading Bayonetta's magical torture fetish explained

JoystiqBayonetta's magical torture fetish explained originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bayonettahideki-kamiyaplatinum-gamessegaThu, 19 Nov 2009 18:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft lists more jobs for Project Natal, 343 Industries; hiring Shadow Complex, Gears of War franchises lead]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/microsoft-lists-more-jobs-for-project-natal-343-industries/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/microsoft-lists-more-jobs-for-project-natal-343-industries/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/microsoft-lists-more-jobs-for-project-natal-343-industries/#comments With Shadow Complex setting very specific week-one sales records on XBLA, Epic and Chair would be kind of nuts to not consider a sequel. One job listing out of a recent crop on Microsoft's employment boards seems to out that likely scenario, implying that Shadow Complex is a bona fide franchise for Microsoft Game Studios and Epic. Said listing specifically calls for a Lead Producer to "lead the publishing side of games made by Epic: Gears of War and Shadow Complex."

Additionally, Microsoft appears to be looking for more able bodies to join its growing pool of Project Natal and 343 Industries employees. Existing job listings call for everything from designers to engineers to even a few artists. Sadly, the company isn't looking for MJOLNIR armor models yet, but just in case, Microsoft, you know how to reach us.

[Via Develop]

JoystiqMicrosoft lists more jobs for Project Natal, 343 Industries; hiring Shadow Complex, Gears of War franchises lead originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-industrieschairChair-Entertainmentemploymentepicepic-gamesgears-of-warhalojob-listingjobsmicrosoftmicrosoft-game-studiosproject-natalshadow-complexxblaThu, 19 Nov 2009 17:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Dynasty Warriors Strikeforce brings the crowds online in February]]>http://xbox.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/dynasty-warriors-strikeforce-brings-the-crowds-online-in-februar/http://xbox.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/dynasty-warriors-strikeforce-brings-the-crowds-online-in-februar/http://xbox.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/dynasty-warriors-strikeforce-brings-the-crowds-online-in-februar/#commentsDynasty Warriors Strikeforce, the upgraded PS3 and Xbox 360 port of the PSP's hit Dynasty Warriors game, will launch in North America this February, according to an announcement from Koei. We understand that keeping all the upcoming Warriors games straight may be confusing to people not keeping a close eye on the series, so we'll break it down.

This isn't the Fist of the North Star one, and it's not the Wii one game that Shigeru Miyamoto is peripherally involved in. This is the Dynasty Warriors with the crazy Dragon Ball Z-style transformations. This is the one that features Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 characters on PS3 and Warriors Orochi 2 characters on Xbox 360. Most importantly, this is the Dynasty Warriors with online multiplayer for teams of up to four players!

Joystiq XboxDynasty Warriors Strikeforce brings the crowds online in February originally appeared on Joystiq Xbox on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 17:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dynasty-warriorsdynasty-warriors-strikeforcekoeirelease-dateThu, 19 Nov 2009 17:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Sonic 2 soon to be Xbox Live Deal of the Week]]>http://xbox.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/sonic-2-soon-to-be-xbox-live-deal-of-the-week/http://xbox.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/sonic-2-soon-to-be-xbox-live-deal-of-the-week/http://xbox.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/sonic-2-soon-to-be-xbox-live-deal-of-the-week/#comments According to Sega, the XBLA version of Sonic the Hedgehog 2 will soon become an Xbox Live Deal of the Week. The deal is scheduled to begin November 30 -- just in time for the holidays -- and will see the game's price drop from 400 ($5) to just 240 ($3). That's an absolute pittance for one of the best Sonic games out there, and with Project Needlemouse still a long way out, you'd be hard-pressed to do much better (seriously).

Joystiq XboxSonic 2 soon to be Xbox Live Deal of the Week originally appeared on Joystiq Xbox on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deal-of-the-weeksegasonicsonic-the-hedgehogsonic-the-hedgehog-2xblaxblmxbox-liveThu, 19 Nov 2009 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Dark Void film adaptation announced]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/dark-void-film-adaptation-announced/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/dark-void-film-adaptation-announced/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/dark-void-film-adaptation-announced/#comments Preemptively cutting off complaints that it strays too far from the source material, Capcom has announced a film adaptation of a game you haven't played yet: Dark Void, next year's promising third-person shooter from Airtight Games. In line with the agreement reached between Capcom, Reliance BIG Entertainment and Brad Pitt's Plan B Entertainment production company, Dark Void is primed as a "sci-fi action franchise and potential starring vehicle for Pitt."

While the parties involved decide whether or not the movie is indeed the Pitt's, someone should probably point out that as far as starring vehicles go, a jetpack is probably the best one. Players will beat Hollywood to the punch and experience it for themselves when Dark Void lands on PC, PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 on January 19, 2010 in North America and January 22, 2010 in Europe.
Congratulations to Crusty Magic on being the first to comment. You've been emailed a free Battlefield: Bad Company 2 beta code. Click here, for more information on this giveaway. Official rules apply.

JoystiqDark Void film adaptation announced originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adaptationairtight-gamesbrad-pittcapcomdark-voidgame-to-filmplan-breliance-big-entertainmentshooterThu, 19 Nov 2009 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Firm considers class action over Xbox Live bannings]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/firm-considers-class-action-over-xbox-live-bannings/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/firm-considers-class-action-over-xbox-live-bannings/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/firm-considers-class-action-over-xbox-live-bannings/#comments Boutique law firm AbingtonIP is "investigating" what it considers the "convenient" recent Xbox Live bannings. The firm posits that the "tens of thousands" of banned Xbox Live subscribers who used modded consoles deserve recompense due to the timing of the action. The firm believes that said timing -- i.e., after Halo 3: ODST and shortly before Modern Warfare 2's releases -- was executed to net Microsoft as much money as possible out of potential Xbox Live subscribers before banning the modded devices. The class action lawsuit would attempt to obtain a refund for the prorated sums left on the banned Xbox Live subscriptions.

According to Joystiq legal columnist Mark Methenitis' analysis: "To me, this certainly sounds a lot like a cash grab directed at a company with deep pockets, but perhaps there are more facts than they are letting on." He explains that a user savvy enough to have a modded console would also know not to connect it to Live without "serious risk." Methenitis concludes, "If, in fact, Microsoft is inducing people to buy a service only to terminate them, then there's certainly a deceptive business practice concern. But this seems far more cut and dry than that."

[Thanks, C. Carl Carlston]

JoystiqFirm considers class action over Xbox Live bannings originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abingtonipbannedbanningclass-actionlawlawsuitmark-methenitisxblxbox-livexbox-live-banningsThu, 19 Nov 2009 14:01:00 EST<![CDATA[BioShock 2 Special Edition vinyl-y announced]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/bioshock-2-special-edition-vinyl-y-announced/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/bioshock-2-special-edition-vinyl-y-announced/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/bioshock-2-special-edition-vinyl-y-announced/#comments
Click to Big Daddy-size

If you find yourself enraptured by everything BioShock, you're really going to love this. 2K Games has disclosed details on the BioShock 2 Special Edition release, limited to one production run and set for retail on February 9 alongside the slightly-less-special edition we saw the cover art for on Tuesday.

If you're prepared to sink $99 into the set ($89 for PC) you'll be the proud (but poorer) owner of the game, a 164-page hardcover art book, three posters, the orchestral score on CD and the most special goodie accompanying this edition: the orchestral score on a vinyl 180g LP. You know ... a record. You know, big black disc DJs use? Yep, one of those.

This is great news for audiophiles and those who refuse to own a CD player because lasers are obviously some kind of witchcraft.

JoystiqBioShock 2 Special Edition vinyl-y announced originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 13:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-Australia2k-games2k-marinArkane-Studiosbioshockbioshock-2bioshock-2-special-editiondigital-extremesretailspecial-editiontake-twoThu, 19 Nov 2009 13:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Dragon Age: Origins DLC to 'Return to Ostagar' this holiday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/dragon-age-origins-dlc-to-return-to-ostagar-this-holiday/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/dragon-age-origins-dlc-to-return-to-ostagar-this-holiday/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/dragon-age-origins-dlc-to-return-to-ostagar-this-holiday/#comments Polish up your armor and prune your dialog trees: EA has announced a new Dragon Age: Origins DLC adventure, "Return to Ostagar," is coming to Xbox 360, PS3 and PC this holiday season for $5. The add-on will allow your hero to "revisit Ostagar, the site of the Grey Wardens' darkest hour, to reclaim the honor and learn the secrets of Ferelden's fallen king."

Listen, we're as big of fans of Dragon Age: Origins as you're likely to meet, but we have to question the scheduling of this DLC release. It's not that we don't want it, but who out there has played so much DA:O that they're bored of what's on the disc? Seriously, the thing's like 340 hours long!

JoystiqDragon Age: Origins DLC to 'Return to Ostagar' this holiday originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowaredlcdragon-agedragon-age-originsearelease-datereturn-to-ostagarThu, 19 Nov 2009 12:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Resident Evil 5: Gold Edition hits retail in March, DLC in February [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/resident-evil-5-gold-edition-hits-retail-in-march-dlc-in-febru/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/resident-evil-5-gold-edition-hits-retail-in-march-dlc-in-febru/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/resident-evil-5-gold-edition-hits-retail-in-march-dlc-in-febru/#comments It looks like Capcom USA was tired of us making fun of the proposed name for the upcoming Resident Evil 5 expansion, "Alternative Edition." The division has chosen a bling-ier title for its stateside release: Resident Evil 5: Gold Edition. Gold Edition will be released as a retail box copy on March 9 for $49.99 as a single Blu-ray disc, including the original game and add-on content, on PS3 and as a DVD with download voucher for Xbox 360.

If you already have Resident Evil 5, you'll be able to pick up the first DLC chapter earlier. "Lost in Nightmares" and a custom pack will be available for download on February 17 for Xbox 360 and February 18 for PS3, while the second, unnamed DLC episode will be released March 3 (Xbox 360) and 4th (PS3) alongside a second costume pack. No mention has been made of a possible PC release.

Update: Capcom passed along dates for the European release. The PAL DLC release dates are the same as those reported above. However, the Gold Edition retail release will be Friday, March 12.

JoystiqResident Evil 5: Gold Edition hits retail in March, DLC in February [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 12:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomcostume-packdlcepisodeslost-in-nightmaresrelease-dateresident-evilresident-evil-5resident-evil-5-alternative-editionresident-evil-5-gold-editionThu, 19 Nov 2009 12:43:00 EST<![CDATA[GameStop earnings up in Q3, Modern Warfare 2 company's biggest launch ever]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/gamestop-earnings-up-in-q3-modern-warfare-2-companys-biggest-l/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/gamestop-earnings-up-in-q3-modern-warfare-2-companys-biggest-l/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/gamestop-earnings-up-in-q3-modern-warfare-2-companys-biggest-l/#comments GameStop remains an unstoppable retail force, as the juggernaut slammed cash register drawers shut with $1.83 billion in sales and $52.2 million in profit for the quarter ending October 31. The figures represent 8.2 and 11.8 percent increases, respectively, from the same quarter last year.

The top five games during the quarter were Madden NFL 10, Halo 3: ODST, Batman: Arkham Asylum, NBA 2K10 and Wii Sports Resort, with all titles having "exceeded" the company's initial sales expectations. GameStop also revealed thar Modern Warfare 2 -- which released in Q4 on November 10 -- sold 2.5 million copies at the retailer in 72 hours. GameStop CEO Daniel DeMatteo is optimistic and believes MW2 is a bellwether for the rest of the holiday season.

JoystiqGameStop earnings up in Q3, Modern Warfare 2 company's biggest launch ever originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionbusinesscall-of-duty-modern-warfare-2fpsgamestopinfinity-wardmodern-warfare-2q3-2009salesThu, 19 Nov 2009 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Reminder: 1 vs. 100 Season 2 begins this evening]]>http://xbox.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/reminder-1-vs-100-season-2-begins-this-evening/http://xbox.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/reminder-1-vs-100-season-2-begins-this-evening/http://xbox.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/reminder-1-vs-100-season-2-begins-this-evening/#comments Xbox Live-based game show 1 vs. 100 begins its second season this evening in the States at 8PM EST/5PM PST. The second season is bringing a plethora of upgrades to the show, including unlockable dance moves and the chance of becoming a badge recipient as the 14-week season goes on. Oh yeah, there are also sweet, sweet Achievements.

We're definitely curious to see how the second round goes, especially now that the chance of getting into the Mob or becoming The One is based on "score, score, score." If you haven't tried the game with your family, spouse or Xbox Live buddies yet, be sure to check it out.

Joystiq XboxReminder: 1 vs. 100 Season 2 begins this evening originally appeared on Joystiq Xbox on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1-vs-100microsoftxbox-liveThu, 19 Nov 2009 09:45:00 EST<![CDATA[No More Heroes: Heroes' Paradise screens touch down]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/no-more-heroes-heroes-paradise-screens-touch-down/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/no-more-heroes-heroes-paradise-screens-touch-down/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/no-more-heroes-heroes-paradise-screens-touch-down/#commentsThe screenshots on Microsoft Japan's page for No More Heroes: Heroes' Paradise reveal that the Wii game has received noticeable visual enhancements for its HD debut. And we're not just talking about the revealing clothes in "Very Sweet" mode. Textures and lighting seem to have been improved quite a bit -- providing a less embarrassing excuse to purchase the game again than the pre-order bonus.

The bonus, revealed on publisher Marvelous's site, is two sets of "erotica portraits" of No More Heroes' female cast by the original character designer and guest illustrators. The PS3 version of the game comes with the "Sexy Cherry" set, and the Xbox 360 version comes with the "Sweet Mango" set. This should go over better than the toilet paper.

Congratulations to Joel on being the first to comment. You've been emailed a free Battlefield: Bad Company 2 beta code. Click here, for more information on this giveaway. Official rules apply.

JoystiqNo More Heroes: Heroes' Paradise screens touch down originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>no-more-heroesno-more-heroes-heroes-paradiseThu, 19 Nov 2009 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gearbox spills details on Borderlands' Zombie Island DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/gearbox-spills-details-on-borderlands-zombie-island-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/gearbox-spills-details-on-borderlands-zombie-island-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/gearbox-spills-details-on-borderlands-zombie-island-dlc/#comments Even with all the delightful new games on store shelves, we know you Borderlands addicts are still jonesing for more loot. Sure, it's not something you'd discuss with your family, but it's a disease, a terrible thirst that can only be slaked by DLC. MTV's got some more information on the first announced chunk, "The Zombie Island Of Doctor Ned."

The $9.99 island (due November 24 on PS3 and 360) is approximately as big as one of the smaller areas in the game and provides around four to six hours of gameplay, according to DLC design director Paul Helquist. Getting to the island and all the delicious new weapons within is a snap: You can teleport directly to the content after you buy it, and as long as you're level 10 or above the area will scale to you.

Hopefully that'll give you gear junkies enough info to stave off cravings until -- hey, are you licking the screen?!

JoystiqGearbox spills details on Borderlands' Zombie Island DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 09:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>borderlandsborderlands-dlcdlcgearboxzombie-island-of-dr-nedThu, 19 Nov 2009 09:06:00 EST<![CDATA[The many artistic portrayals of Lara Croft]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/the-many-artistic-portrayals-of-lara-croft/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/the-many-artistic-portrayals-of-lara-croft/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/the-many-artistic-portrayals-of-lara-croft/#comments
[Nebeziel, deviantART user]

A Google image search of Lara Croft is a lot tamer than it used to be these days, though it's still something we wouldn't suggest doing. Thankfully, we have a link to quench your thirst for inspired, non-naked, sexually-deprived-fanboy-fantasy-quasi-porn, courtesy of The Design Inspiration.

There are 40 fanworks in total, all originating from deviantART (obviously). There are a lot of great renditions, including the image where Lara is fighting dinosaurs and the one where she's hiding from dinosaurs. We also have a soft spot for this odd image of her fighting Wonder Woman, but the best has to be this image where she defends herself so she can stop and eat the baked potato she brought down into the tomb with her. Tomb raiding takes a lot of carbohydrates, people!

[Via Kotaku]

JoystiqThe many artistic portrayals of Lara Croft originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artdeviantartlara-crofttomb-raiderThu, 19 Nov 2009 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Unlock skins with Aliens vs. Predator pre-order at GameStop]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/18/unlock-skins-with-aliens-vs-predator-pre-order-at-gamestop/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/18/unlock-skins-with-aliens-vs-predator-pre-order-at-gamestop/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/18/unlock-skins-with-aliens-vs-predator-pre-order-at-gamestop/#comments
Click image for full-size action pose
Aliens vs. Predator is kind of a misleading title. Aside from the titular extra-terrestrials, mankind's future badasses, the Colonial Marines, will also be able to get some in Rebellion's upcoming FPS romp. And for some of your pre-sale cash at GameStop, you'll be able to use one of the more badasserer (we're still working on that one) humans around: Sgt. Kaneko. This dude "wrote the book on small-scale Xeno containment," which is great because we hear there's a lot of Xeno in the game that needs, uh, containing.

Joining Kaneko are Number Six -- the blue thing on the left that looks like it's from The Darkness -- and Alien Head Predator, the "most successful Xenomorph Hunter of all time." That's how he she it got that neat Cylon mask! Both are very adept at being super scary-looking and can be yours if you pre-order at GameStop. Unless you live in Germany, in which case you get nothing.

JoystiqUnlock skins with Aliens vs. Predator pre-order at GameStop originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aliens-vs-predatoravpgamestoppreorderrebellionsegaWed, 18 Nov 2009 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Two joysticks and 40 buttons: Steel Battalion controller as VJ tool]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/18/two-joysticks-and-40-buttons-steel-battalion-controller-as-vj-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/18/two-joysticks-and-40-buttons-steel-battalion-controller-as-vj-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/18/two-joysticks-and-40-buttons-steel-battalion-controller-as-vj-t/#commentsIt might be silly to keep a giant Steel Battalion controller around for use with two games (Steel Battalion and ... the other Steel Battalion). But to use one for those two games and a custom VJ setup -- that's ... well, it's still kind of silly, but it's also pretty awesome.

One "visual performance unit" called Bonsajo rigged up one of Capcom's indulgent Xbox controllers to control an audiovisual display. It turns out that with all those crazy, light-up buttons, the controller is well suited to use for VJing in dark environments! And it also looks really cool, in a way that we wouldn't expect of a mech game controller at a party. See the controller in action after the break.

[Via Kotaku, GSW]

Continue reading Two joysticks and 40 buttons: Steel Battalion controller as VJ tool

JoystiqTwo joysticks and 40 buttons: Steel Battalion controller as VJ tool originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bonsajocapcomsteel-battalionvjWed, 18 Nov 2009 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GameFly begins selling new games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/18/gamefly-begins-selling-new-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/18/gamefly-begins-selling-new-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/18/gamefly-begins-selling-new-games/#comments GameFly, the online game rental service .... wait, that's hardly accurate anymore, let's start over: GameFly, the media company and rental service entity, is now selling new games on its website, including large items like DJ Hero and Tony Hawk Ride. Those expecting to discover the amazing discounts normally found with the service's used games will be disappointed to note that the new games are full retail price and include shipping costs and applicable taxes.

Example for Massachusetts:
  • A new copy of New Super Marios Bros Wii: $50 for the game + $3 tax + $5 for standard shipping = $58
  • The "keep it" price for a member who's been with the service over a year: $39 + $3 tax + no shipping cost = $42 (members also receive a $5 coupon every quarter, which would make it $37)
The "new" store isn't a revelation in retail, but perhaps it'll make more sense later on. GameFly still has some of the best deals in used games we've seen.

[Thanks, Chris S.]

JoystiqGameFly begins selling new games originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessgame-salesgameflyretailWed, 18 Nov 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[X3F TV -- XBLA in Brief: Diner Dash, Gyromancer]]>http://xbox.joystiq.com/2009/11/18/x3f-tv-xbla-in-brief-diner-dash-gyromancer/http://xbox.joystiq.com/2009/11/18/x3f-tv-xbla-in-brief-diner-dash-gyromancer/http://xbox.joystiq.com/2009/11/18/x3f-tv-xbla-in-brief-diner-dash-gyromancer/#commentsFiled under:

This week brings two casual games to Xbox Live Arcade. For puzzle fans, we have Gyromancer (1200, $15), an RPG take on PopCap's Bejeweled Twist. For those who prefer something a little more manic, there's Diner Dash (800, $10), which tasks players with running a restaurant and keeping customers happy. If you've ever dealt with real customers before, you'll know that keeping them happy is harder than it sounds.

See both games in the latest episode of XBLA in Brief.

Download the trial version of Diner Dash
Download the trial version of Gyromancer

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Joystiq XboxX3F TV -- XBLA in Brief: Diner Dash, Gyromancer originally appeared on Joystiq Xbox on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 18:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>diner-dashgamelabgyromancerplayfirstPopCappopcap-gamessquare-enixx3f-tvxblaxbla-in-briefWed, 18 Nov 2009 18:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: The story of Dante's Inferno]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/18/video-the-story-of-dantes-inferno/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/18/video-the-story-of-dantes-inferno/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/18/video-the-story-of-dantes-inferno/#comments To: Electronic Arts
CC: Visceral Games
RE: Voice-over suggestion for latest Dante's Inferno trailer
ATT: dante-story-trailer.flv

Male (30s, 40s - Gruff, gravelly voice)

"The denizens of Hell stole the woman he loved ... but they didn't realize they were messing with the wrong 14th century Italian poet. In a world where the damned scream out for absolution, one man will fight for justice. It's time for some serious payback, and the Devil just wrote a check he can't cash. Electronic Arts presents ... Dante's Inferno. Next Spring, there's going to be Hell to pay." (Alternate closer: "Next Spring, it's damned if you do, damned if you die.")

Thank you for your consideration,

JoystiqVideo: The story of Dante's Inferno originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dantes-infernoeaElectronic-Artsvisceral-gamesWed, 18 Nov 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Avatar's third dev diary is all about choices]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/18/avatars-third-dev-diary-is-all-about-choices/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/18/avatars-third-dev-diary-is-all-about-choices/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/18/avatars-third-dev-diary-is-all-about-choices/#commentsOkay, okay - we'll admit that the transparent dry erase board thing is a bit on the "too much" side of things, but Avatar's third dev diary contains enough interesting information about the game in it otherwise that we feel okay forgiving the clip's director. The emphasis here is on the game's many choices, and, more specifically, the one major choice which mirrors the movie's plot. Will you choose the path of the human and murder a tall blue alien ... thing, or stand up for all that is righteous and good in the world? The choice is yours (you monster!).

JoystiqAvatar's third dev diary is all about choices originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avataravatar-the-gamedev-diarydev-diary-3developer-diaryjames-cameronjames-camerons-avatarubisoftWed, 18 Nov 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Look flashy in incoming Operation Flashpoint Avatar duds]]>http://xbox.joystiq.com/2009/11/18/look-flashy-in-incoming-operation-flashpoint-avatar-duds/http://xbox.joystiq.com/2009/11/18/look-flashy-in-incoming-operation-flashpoint-avatar-duds/http://xbox.joystiq.com/2009/11/18/look-flashy-in-incoming-operation-flashpoint-avatar-duds/#comments
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It's a good thing our Avatars have endless walk-in closets, because there's yet more wearable advertising licensed clothing coming for them, this time from Codemasters and its military sim Operation Flashpoint: Dragon Rising. According to the game's community manager in a post on the Dragon Rising forums, the clothing will be available "soon" and start at the seemingly standard 80 ($1) -- probably for one of the several T-Shirts.

Speaking of which, check out how gung-ho Dexter's sis, Deb, looks wearing one of them (right).

Joystiq XboxLook flashy in incoming Operation Flashpoint Avatar duds originally appeared on Joystiq Xbox on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatar-marketplaceavatarscodemastersdexteroperation-flashpoint-dragon-risingxblmWed, 18 Nov 2009 16:15:00 EST