Joystiq Staff
Articles by Joystiq Staff
Wii chip production well underway, say IBM, Nintendo [update 2]
[Ed's note: we made a mistake in allowing this item to snowball into something more than a mere IBM-Nintendo PR announcement that production of chips is on schedule. Our apologies for allowing this one to get way, way out of hand. Read here for a more detailed apology.] IBM announced that their Broadway chip custom-designed for Nintendo's Wii console has been shipping to Nintendo's since July. "We have been shipping well within this quarter (July)," said Ron Martino, director of IBM Technology Collaboration Solutions. "In fact, we have shipped a significant volume in this quarter."So what does this news mean to gamers who have been waiting patiently for a release date from Nintendo? Well, considering that Nintendo has had their hands on a "significant volume" of one of the major components of their console since July, some might speculate that the Wii could be ready for release sooner than the expected October street date.When asked to quantify the speed of the Broadway processor, IBM's Martino compared it to the GameCube. "Compared to the Gekko in the GameCube, it's 20 percent more power efficient. It also performs significantly better. The key point is that it is Power Architecture-based and custom-made and optimized for Nintendo," he said (not really answering the question).With this update and Nintendo confirming the shipment of "6 million systems to retailers around the world between its launch in the fourth quarter of 2006 and the end of its fiscal year on March 31, 2007," we expect Nintendo might finally be ready to talk release schedule during their event in New York City next week. [Update 1: toned down language throughout, added new first paragraph.] [Update 2: more edits, added link in first paragraph.]
Major next-gen console news coming tonight [update 1]
We just got handed a scoop for some important news with one of the next-generation consoles. We can't talk about any specifics yet, but you have our word that this announcement is something worth waiting for. Expect all the info tonight here at Joystiq at 12:01 a.m. Eastern.[Update: An apology for this post, and a note on hype.]
Devil May Cry coming to the PSP
Yesterday we brought you some details on the PlayStation 3 debut of Devil May Cry. Now, we bring you the news that Capcom is planning to deliver this successful franchise to the PSP. CVG has noticed that on the Japanese site for Capcom, there is a note about bringing Dante and company to Sony's little handheld. The only information given is that the game will be in the "stylish action" genre of gameplay. Tomorrow, the countdown on the DMC teaser site ends, so maybe we'll get more info by then. But, until that time, feel free to speculate.
As PAL waits, potential customers fire back
Well, it certainly didn't take long for the Sony backlash in PAL-land to hit its stride. There is already a site up called, "This is Waiting," which plays on the PlayStation 3's European slogan, "This is Living." There's a great collection of photoshops and video remixes which perfectly reflect the anger many in the region feel toward Sony.We'll highlight our favorites in case you're too lazy to check out all the content that is constantly being updated on the site.Video:Sony's E3 Press ConferenceKillzone aftermathMore photos after the break. By the way, if you've got your own great photoshop or video remix, feel free to share it with us.[Thanks, Scott Cole]
Devil May Cry 4 information leaked a tad early
Considering there is a countdown about to run out at the official Web site, we expected to get more information on the PlayStation 3's standout title Devil May Cry 4 relatively soon. But, thanks to the power of the Internet and Japanese magazines, we can get the goods just a wee bit earlier. According to a rough translation of Famitsu, this is what you're gonna get with DMC 4: The game takes place after DMC 1, but before DMC 2. You play as a new lead character by the name of Nero. Nero has devilish right arm. He can draw enemies toward himself and then throw them. The combo system has as base the one from DMC3 and they are revising/reworking details according to the fans' comment-remarks. Nero's sword has a bar. The sword has some kind of a driving force in it. It's a new way/element to enjoy the sword handling. At the Tokyo Game Show there will be real-time footage. You can view the magazine scans of the article and photos here: scan 01scan 02scan 03scan 04 It's nice to know there will be "real-time footage" at TGS, but how about some real-time gameplay on the show floor? That'd certainly be a nice way to extend the olive branch to disheartened Sony fans -- especially when you break the news to your Japanese base about getting the short end of the stick come launch day. [Thanks, Gerard Flannory]
First PS3 Ridge Racer 7 screens surface
Fear not all you PlayStation 3 fans. Despite taking a few shots to the gut, we've got some positive content for you: the first Ridge Racer 7 screenshots. Of course, you'll have to check after the break to see every single morsel.For those not in the know, RR7 for the PS3 will have 40 different cars available to race on more than 22 different tracks. There will also be the obligatory exterior and tuning customization we've come to know with recent racing games. So, after looking at these screenshots, what do you think? Is it worth $600+ to play?
Captain Obvious: UMD price drop brings huge sales
After taking a few weeks off, Captain Obvious is back with some news on the recent Warner Bros. UMD movie price drop in Japan -- you see they dropped their little movies to 980 yen or about $8.50 for us Yanks -- and listen, it's positive. Well, it depends on how you define positive. After UMD movie sales seemed to suffer over the past few months, the peeps at Warner Bros. decided to run a promotion where for a "limited time," their movies would be available for that low price your 'Cap mentioned above. Apparently, in Japan, limited time means forever, as Warner Bros. decided to make that price drop permanent. The result? An increase in sales that boomed to ten times past previous sales numbers. Now, what does the Captain have to do to get the U.S. some UMD price drop love? We'd like to call out to other studios and demand a price drop ASAP! What do you have to lose?
Are you ready to break-up with Sony?
Today's dual nuclear strikes by Sony have apparently tipped some loyalists over the edge, causing them to finally sever that umbilical game cord that's been tattered and barely hanging on since last May. Fanboys have weathered some rough storms as Sony dropped PR bomb after PR bomb, but today may have been the last straw as one such disgruntled man, Angry Gamer, has certainly had all he can take.In a violently written Dear John letter, Mr. Angry lays down the law in his impassioned break-up note with Mr. Sony. Whether or not he's just burning through the day on pure emotion, his words certainly embody the anger many fans may be feeling at this moment: "Today was the breaking point. Delaying the PlayStation 3 to March 2007 because you couldn't make enough machines in time is the ultimate betrayal."So, what about you Joystiq Nation? Has this news caused you to re-examine your console loyalty? We all know that Sony fanboys are a rabid bunch, but just how much damage can the Sony ship take before fans just start jumping off in a mass hysteria? Broken promise after broken promise can really add up for those who held complete faith in a company that has been so good to them in the past. In fact, that seems to be the real problem here. Most may not be upset by delays, they happen, but instead angered over the promises and PR slips that continue to plague Sony and their PS3 launch. It's not about the news. It's about not being honest with your loyal customers.
New Stranglehold trailer released
We just got sent the brand new trailer for John Woo's Stranglehold which is set to release early next year on the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and PC. What's so special about this video is that it contains footage that is beyond what we've been seeing and playing since E3. Previously, all we got to plant our eyes on and experience was the same restaurant level that Midway has been throwing our way for months.Because of that and a release date delay, we were starting to get worried this title may not make its way to the public. It's a cool concept and controls beautifully, so we'd hate to see it not be released.
Classic, non-crappy Bomberman coming to the PSP
In a bid to make us forget the tragedy that is Bomberman on the 360, Konami has announced that a classic version of the game will come to PSP users on Sept. 12. What's even better is that the game will feature some ad hoc multiplayer where only one person will be required to own the game. Here's what you'll get with this new title:Normal mode is the latest single player Bomberman adventure, complete with a new story and 100 levels, while classic mode is based on original Bomberman gameplay and features over 50 different levels for players to experience. Bomberman offers a multiplayer battle mode, which allows up to four players to fight for survival in a variety of highly customizable game types across 20 different stages via wireless ad hoc play. Lastly game sharing lets up to 4 players battle together in timeless multiplayer party modes with just one UMD.Now this is the kind of quality gaming we demand on our PSP. Get more titles like this and we'll keep playing Sony's glossy handheld. The only problem here is that there's no infrastructure support. It would have been nice to be able to play people all around the world rather than just in the room. But, you know, we'll take what we can get on the PSP.
G4's Kevin P. gets in touch with his feminine side
We saw this picture and just felt compelled to share it with you, the gaming public. Apparently snagged from a recent photo shoot for a new magazine coming out called Geek Weekly, we see our favorite tech variety show host Kevin Pereira in a rather sexually confusing pose with fellow gaming hottie Jessica Chobot from IGN. It's always good to see others in the game industry not take themselves too seriously and be willing to have a little fun in the name of all that is geek. You may catch some heat for that picture Kevin, but we got ya back.
The old-school gamer's Monopoly board
It seems one classic video game enthusiast has taken his free time and focused his efforts to creating the ultimate Monopoly for the nostalgic gamer. The complete makeover of the entire board is there with games such as Doom and Pong taking their respective places in substitution for the classic city streets. The creator has also transformed the cards, pieces and money that come along with the game. It's a mighty fine effort and we applaud the dedication needed to make something like this happen. The only things that seem to be lacking in terms of quality to us are the cheapo looking player pieces and house and hotel pieces. Also, spelling "joystick" without a "q" is just plain wrong. Otherwise, bravo.But we've got to know one thing from Joystiq Nation: Anyone got any beef with the importance of some of the games on the board compared to their price?[Thanks, Stephen Q. Burwell]
IGN's quality Wii footage at Leipzig
Up until now, most content related to the Wii has consisted of either shaky cam gameplay footage, trailers or photos put up on various game sites only to be pulled down seconds later. Finally, we get a bit of a reprieve as IGN dishes out an improved quality and in-depth look at the Wii at this year's Leipzig convention in Germany. While we're sure most of you have been pining for a Wii since it was first announced, videos like this could edge people closer to making the ultimate decision of adding the console to their already crowded game room. Does this latest look at the Wii sway you in any particular direction? By the way, try to ignore IGN's annoying load times, ads, and smarmy five o' clock shadowed host. The video is worth the hassle.
Target 360: Clever marketing or sign of the apocalypse?
A thoughtful Joystiq tipster has sent us what appears to be either an ad snafu or clever marketing ploy by Target for an advertisement of an Xbox 360. In a picture for a $399 Xbox 360, the pictured console seems to be suffering from the dreaded red ring of death.Now, considering Target (or Targét as the hipster nation calls it) is known for their red rings logo, it could just be a subliminal promotional gimmick. Even if it's not, we find it mildly amusing that the glitch that seems to be plaguing a certain percentage of 360 users would find its way into an advertisement for the console. Intentional or not, it's probably not a good idea to have it in.[Thanks, Blue]
High-end PS3 shipping without HDMI cable
The über version of the PlayStation 3 evidently isn't shipping with the HDMI cable needed to take advantage of 1080p Blu-ray sweetness that has been promised by Sony ever since the PS3's high-def qualities have been hyped up. According to a recently updated FAQ on the official PS3 site, it says the following: "Copy-protected Blu-ray video discs can only output at 1080p using an HDMI cable connected to a device that is compatible with the HDCP standard."The only problem is that the HDMI cable needed to do this won't be included with your $600 PS3. That means, according to prices on places like Amazon, you'll have to shell out an extra $40 or more for the needed HD hook up. While it certainly may not be a big deal for someone who has the dough to spend $600 on a game console in the first place, for those who have been fillin' up the ol' piggy bank a penny at a time to buy this thing, it could just add to the stress and anger that's been building ever since the price was announced in May.Sony said the $600 PS3 would play our content in 1080p. Maybe they should have made it clear we'd need an extra cable not included in the box to do so.[Thanks, Chris Larson]
A confirmed Guitar Hero 2 song lineup
Confirmed in the October issue of EGM, here's the list everyone has been curious about ever since they first got their rockin' fingers on the original's colorful plastic frets. Take a look at the Guitar Hero 2 song list and tell us your personal favorites: Nirvana; "Heart-Shaped Box" Primus (original recording); "John the Fisherman" Stone Temple Pilots; "Trippin' on a Hole in a Paper Heart" Anthrax; "Madhouse" Motley Crue; "Shout at the Devil" The Police; "Message in a Bottle" The Pretenders; Tattooed Love Boys" Spinal Tap; "Tonight I'm Gonna Rock You Tonight" Heart; "Crazy on You" Allman Brothers Band; "Jessica" Lynyrd Skynrd; "Freebird" Avenged Sevenfold; "Beast and the Harlot" Dick Dale; "Misirlou" Lamb of God; "Laid to Rest" Alice in Chains; "Them Bones" Reverend Horton Heat; "Psychobilly Freakout" Black Sabbath; "War Pigs" KISS; "Strutter" Butthole Surfers; "Who Was in My Room Last Night?" Van Halen; "You Really Got Me" Guns N' Roses; "Sweet Child O'Mine" The Rolling Stones; "Can You Hear Me Knocking?" Rush; "YYZ" (The bands I can't wait to mimic: Nirvana, STP, Skynrd, Black Sabbath and GnR. Rock on Joystiqers!)
Will we see a DS MP3 player this October?
An image and info has been floating around various Web sites pointing to a Nintendo leaflet that said a DS MP3 player -- similar to Japan's Play-Yan -- will be coming to Europe only (at the moment) for about 30 Euros in early October. It is said to be packaged with the upcoming DS browser software. Here are the features mentioned: For Nintendo DS (to be inserted into slot 2) and Game Boy Advance hardware To store music you need SD cards. Up to 2 GB cards are supported, this equals to 500 songs (best sound quality) Choose between different skins (including one with Mario) The interface shows all important information The unit itself features another headphone port If this turns out to be true and a version does come to the U.S. for somewhere around $40 or less, it would seem that Nintendo would have all their bases covered with the DS. Basically having the same features now as a PSP but slightly cheaper, which would you choose?[Thanks, Ian]
The coolest video you'll see this year
myFlash = new FlashObject('http://www.gametrailers.com/umremote310.swf', 'swffile', 480, 409, 8); myFlash.altTxt = ''; myFlash.addVariable('umid', 12321); myFlash.write(); Sorry, but there's just no way we can't post this one because this video certainly deserves all the attention it can get. Set to Moby's Flower, 1K Project II is the result of 1,000 cars combined together in Trackmania. We're sure you'll end up watching this thing a few times just to soak it all in. Kudos to whoever put this together.
Dead Rising secrets to quench that zombie thirst
If you find yourself with nothing to do on this extended Labor Day weekend, why not spend that down time exploring even more secrets hidden inside Dead Rising? There's a good walkthrough up on GameVideos of a few of the secrets you may not have found yet while sawing your way through thousands of rotting mall folk.Is it a surprise to anyone else that so much can happen inside of one mall? It seems like every week there's some new nugget of Dead Rising info to ooze out into the gaming public.
Lost Planet is 360 exclusive and will be out in January
GameSpot recently cornered Capcom producer Jun Takeuchi to confirm that Lost Planet will stay on the Xbox 360 despite rumors that it wouldn't be the exclusive it was thought to be. Also, Takeuchi has revealed that the anticipated title will come to stores in January 2007. Takeuchi says the plan was to always keep Lost Planet on the 360 and the 360 only: Lost Planet is an exclusive Xbox 360 title. Typically when the development team sets out to create a game, we focus development of the title on a single platform and for Lost Planet that platform is the Xbox 360. We have no plans at this time of porting to or developing for another console as this would potentially dilute the final product. Ever since E3 and the demo hit Xbox Live, we've been eagerly anticipating this chilly third-person shooter. How about you? [Thanks, Zelda Master]