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Buying Gears of War achievements isn't cheap
Yesterday, five new Gears of War COG tag location strategy videos were uploaded to the XBLM for your viewing pleasure. But before you make your way to download the videos you should know they'll cost you money. Yes, Brady Games is happy to help you find those COG tags, but is charging 100 Microsoft points per GoW act. Running that through our fanboy calculator, that works out to be exactly 500 Microsoft points ($6.25 US) for five videos.True, it can be frustrating trying to find the last few tags, but please be strong and do not resort to purchasing these videos. There are plenty of free resources on the internet if you are having trouble locating those darn COG tags. Heck, all the COG tag location information you'll ever need is located here. So, go here, don't buy this, and earn these. Friends helping friends, that's what it's all about.
Possible leak: New GH II downloadable tracks
The guys over at HarmonixFans received some special insider's information on the new Guitar Hero II downloadable content that will be coming to the XBLM. The information supposedly came from Microsoft certification documents that were obtained and detail three new track packs including songs from Pantera, The Ramones and ZZ Top. Complete listings of the rumored songs are posted after the break. And even if this information turns out to be false, we know more DLC is coming and pray to the gaming gods and executives at Red Octane that they listened to their fans and adjusted their prices. How can they deny our loud and abrasive fanboy whining?[Via Arrogantics]
Win $100,000 to start your own TV series
Ahem, calling all creative geniuses who want to start their own television show! Both Microsoft and the New York Television Festival have teamed up to offer upcoming writers, directors and stars a chance to start their own TV mini-series on the XBLM. Starting today, Xbox Live users can submit a 5-15 minute pilot episode of their show based on any genre and ranging from live-action to animation. There's really no limitations on creative license here. And sometime in July the winning pilot episode will be chosen and offered $100,000 to create six more episodes that'll be offered exclusively on the XBLM and a screening at the 2007 New York Television Festival. We know there are a lot of creative fanboys out there, get to work and make us (and the community) proud. [Via Major Nelson]
The Red vs Blue gang is ready for download
Rooster Teeth's little Halo machinima that could Red vs Blue is making its season one debut on the XBLM. Up for download are episodes one through five of Red vs Blue with each episode setting you back a very reasonable 80 Microsoft points. It seems like only yesterday when we downloaded our very first episode off the internet, listening to Caboose's childish banter, tolerating Sarge's brash remarks, and that oh so pink Donut acting so ... Donut-like. Ahh the memories we have had with you Red vs Blue and at only $1 US per episode, how can we not re-ignite the flame we once shared?
Fans revolt! GH II DLC is just too spendy
Yesterday, the first batch of downloadable content for Guitar Hero II released onto the XBLM with a very negative reception from fans. Red Octane released three packs to the Marketplace each containing three songs from Guitar Hero and costing 500 Microsoft points ($6.25 US) each. And there in lies the problem ... this content is expensive! The negative buzz surrounding the new tracks has not only spilled onto Major Nelson's website sparking a 560+ comment debate, but inspired angry fans to take action. Enter an online petition aimed at getting Red Octane and Microsoft's attention to do something about the over priced DLC. The online petition has gained a bunch of steam racking up over 3,600 signatures and is sure to gain more throughout the next few days. Will Red Octane respond to fan's anger towards the DLC's pricing scheme, or will they simply turn a blind eye? Well, there's only one way to find out. If you don't agree with the pricing for Guitar Hero II's new DLC and are willing to boycott any such purchase until the price comes down, then sign the online petition. If it's one thing we've learned in the past few weeks it's that sometimes those online petitions actually do work.[Thanks, MightyHealthy]
New XBLM TV and movie content, oh my!
Fresh off the presses is a list of new TV and movie content headed to the XBLM this week including a free download. First, let's talk about the free goods. The Colbert Report's very own animated series Tek Jansen Adventures will make an appearance on the Marketplace with the first episode being offered for free. Side note, be sure to badger both Microsoft and Comedy Central about putting The Colbert Report episodes on the XBLM. It's hilarious, is one of the best shows ever, and needs to be available. End side note. Other TV content available this week is new programming from Total Video and Blade TV, and a new season of Aqua Teen Hunger Force and Gamehead too. For movies we've only got a few releases including Tenacious D & The Pick of Destiny and Beer League. Yup, that should keep you busy for at least fifteen minutes ... now start downloading![Thanks, zizzy]
First wave of Guitar Hero II songs rock Marketplace
3 sets of 3 songs from the original Guitar Hero have landed on Xbox Live Marketplace for GHII. Track Pack 1 has Ozzy's "Bark at the Moon", "Ace of Spades" by Motörhead, and The Exies' "Hey You". Pack numero dos is rockin' "Killer Queen" by Queen, The Donnas' "Take it Off", and "Frankenstein" by The Edward Winter Group. Finally, the third Pack gives you "Higher Ground" by Red Hot Chili Peppers, Incubus' "Stellar", and "Infected" by Bad Religion. Note that all of these songs are covers and not master tracks, like they were before. Each pack weighs in a 500 MS points. That means, at this price point, to get all 47 of the original Guitar Hero tracks, it would cost you roughly 7,850 MS Points or $98.09 USD. So, will you be picking up any of these packs, if so, which one?
Microsoft won't let new GoW maps be free?
In a recent 1UP Yours podcast, Epic's own Tim Sweeney and Mark Rein sat down to discuss Gears of War and downloadable content. During the podcast, Sweeney talked about four new multiplayer maps that they have ready to give out, but are butting heads with Microsoft on how to distribute them. Word on the street is that Epic wants to give away the four new Gears maps, but Microsoft wants Epic to charge for them which is ultimately causing a delay. This of course has caused a community uproar, because we just want our free maps. Cue the Microsoft hating.But just wait one second. Mark Rein posted Epic's response to this whole podcast interview mess and isn't pointing fingers at anyone. He goes on to say that Epic and Microsoft both want to make money and that they feel "the way to maximize the return on Gears of War is to give the maps away for free and Microsoft thinks the way to maximize the return on Gears of War is to sell the maps". So, they just weren't seeing eye to eye. Instead, Epic and Microsoft came to an agreement that they'll be offering all four multiplayer maps for a small fee on the XBLM and a few months later the content will be available for free ... a la Halo 2 maps. Mark Rein further clarifies things by saying that Epic must play by Microsoft's rules when it comes to the XBLM and as a publisher, but says both companies have the best interest of the consumer and their bank accounts. Still need some clarification? Head over to this post where Mark Rein answers the community's concerns and complaints about all this drama. We swear, it's like high school all over again ...
4000 Microsoft points cards coming soon? [update 1]
Yesterday, we received an anonymous tip from a Microsoft rep stating that they've been giving out promotional materials for an upcoming retail 4000 Microsoft points card. The rumored 4000 points card is said to be priced at $49.99 and be Microsoft's answer to getting Marketplace addicts their "fix" in one convenient (albeit huge) purchase. Our tipster also said that they had no firm release date on the new card as all the materials they were given listed it as "Coming Soon". If true, this would would be the second US retail version of Microsoft points cards coexisting with the current 1600 points cards which cost around $19.99. More money, more points, more problems ... how else did you expect to fill that 120 GB HDD? With Monopoly money?Update 1: Look what we have here. We guess it's no longer a rumor, go forth and buy your 4000 Microsoft points cards today!
Fresh from the oven, new Lost Planet maps
As reported on Monday, the new Lost Planet map pack #2 just hit the XBLM today offering two new multiplayer maps to enjoy. For 400 Microsoft Points you'll get both "Hive Complex" (featured in the video above) and "Trial Point" (video after the break) to wage war on with your friends and foes. Has anyone been pondering this purchase since Monday and going to just give into buying it? You know, if we had Lost Planet we'd totally buy the new maps for ourselves, our friends, and our neighbors. But we're cool like that.[Thanks, Ric Metz]
Forza 2 demo a reality, says Microsoft
After popping up in a scanned page of Official Xbox Magazine, the Forza 2 demo has been given the official and unrelentingly green light by the Microsoft pit crew. The Redmond giant tells Eurogamer that further details regarding the demo, including its time of arrival on the Xbox Live Marketplace "will be confirmed in the coming weeks." As if sensing the impatience surrounding Forza 2's May release, Microsoft also doled out another list of cars set to be featured in the final product. Though you might better judge them after the break, we feel confident in confirming them all to be fast, shiny and the sort of expensive that demands the use of words like "ludicrously," "disgustingly," "outrageously" and "quite."
New Lost Planet maps slated for 6 April
The second multiplayer map pack for Capcom's frigid Xbox 360 shooter, Lost Planet, has been scheduled to arrive on the Live Marketplace this Friday, April 6. The two maps contained therein are "Hive Complex," a thankfully hygienic mine with bridges and tunnels scattered across a mountainside, and "Trial Point," a modern office complex featuring "a photorealistic backdrop of a busy city center." Capcom's community website holds video footage of the maps, both of which look graphically splendid (if you're into that sort of thing). The asking price is 400 MS points, or 5 of your nigh incomprehensible American "bucks".
XBLM gets Armored Core 4 demo
According to the ever so knowledgeable Major Nelson, there is a new demo on the XBLM today by the name of Armored Core 4. This mech demo will allow you to play three single player missions and give you a taste of what the game has to offer. And even though Armored Core 4 hasn't been feeling much review love, maybe you can find something that tickles your fancy. Also, be sure to note that the demo comes in at 791MBs and is only available to the US, Canada and Mexico. So, give it a download ... or don't. It's entirely up to you and won't affect our long term relationship. We promise.
Lost Planet map pack #2 coming Friday
Capcom just announced that we'll be seeing more Lost Planet multiplayer map love this week. On Friday, April 6th Lost Planet's map pack #2 will be released to the XBLM featuring two new maps and will set you back 400 Microsoft Points just like it's old brother map pack #1. The two new maps are called "Hive Complex", which is set in an abandoned mine, and "Trial Point" set in a futuristic business complex. Preview videos of the new maps are available after the jump. Has anyone purchased the previous map pack and came away satisfied? If so, are you thinking about purchasing these two new multiplayer maps for more frigid fun?
Cage's Next gamer pictures and theme
We've got another movie related gamer picture set and a theme for United States Xbox Live members. Right now you can head to the XBLM to find your free Next gamer pictures and theme featuring Nicholas Cage. And speaking of Mr. Cage, sorry man, but we're just not big fans of the long hair. Let's just say the length doesn't compliment your face structure, okay? Head online, because the free XBLM downloads dinner bell is ringing, so go get 'em guys!
Forza 2 demo coming to XBLM in April
Over on the wii60 forums, Doc Steel posted a scan of May's issue of OXM featuring some intriguing Forza Motorsport 2 info. In the scan, you'll notice that on the top right it states there will be a demo coming to the XBLM in April. We're extremely confident in the validity of this news, but are also aware of the nasty Microsoft certification process which could push the demo into late April or early May. But it's good nearly good as gold, we'll probably be seeing a little Forza 2 fun on the XBLM in a few weeks ... vroom![Thanks, James S.]
New Vehicles and Tracks for Novadrome
For the low, low price of 250 MS Points you can get your hands on eight new vehicles and six new arenas for the Xbox Live Arcade title Novadrome. Not only can you take this online in the multiplayer mode, but they are featured in a new Career mode as well. So, while the game didn't receive the best of reviews, it still had some merit, if only to remind us of Re-Volt, the Dreamcast title and Xbox Live Beta game of choice. Will you be picking this up, given that you actually have Novadrome?
Free episode of The Andy Milonakis Show
Last night, while drinking a diet Mountain Dew and flipping through XBLM content, we came upon a free TV episode download. And you know how much we love our free content here at X3F. Episode one of season three's The Andy Milonakis Show is on the XBLM to download for free! For the new season, Andy dumped the red, is sporting a blue button up shirt and is moving to LA, which is exactly what this premiere episode touches on. We're not sure why Hilary Duff is in the episode or even if we like the show, but it's free so it needs a good watching. Give The Andy Milonakis Show a download, Hilary Duff guest stars and it features talking turtles too!
Xbox 360 Elite and 120GB drive now official
HD nerds and Xbox fanboys, the moment you've been waiting for: the Xbox 360 Elite we alerted you about way back when it was just called the Zephyr has finally been announced. As we previously mentioned, it will be black, it will have HDMI, and it will have a 120GB drive (it'll also come bundled with a one month Xbox Live trial) for $479. Unfortunately, also as mentioned before, it's not going to have the new 65nm CPUs, it still doesn't have integrated WiFi (Xbox said it's because a study showed the majority of their customers use Ethernet to connect -- huh?), and it won't have an integrated HD DVD drive (not that we expected otherwise). Microsoft did make some marketing decisions since our sources spilled the beans on this thing though: it's not going to be limited edition, as we previously had. Instead, the Elite will be a permanent SKU, the third and top-tier Xbox device. On the solo 120GB drive side of things, that unit will cost $179, and will come with a cable and software to migrate from your old 20GB drive. (MSFT wasn't yet sure if that kit would be sold separately for new Elite users -- sounds like it will be though, and will be priced very reasonably.) More info: The console will come with component and composite cables, as well as an HDMI cable. (Take that, Sony and Apple!) The console will come with a black wireless controller and black (wired) headset. Sorry, the new black controller still doesn't have backlit buttons -- don't let the pic fool you. The black controller, black rechargeable batteries, black headset, and black Play & Charge kit will all be available in retail for the same price as the white gear. The HD DVD drive will not be released in black. Xbox didn't know what HDMI version the Elite uses, nor whether it supports PCM 5.1, TrueHD, etc.; it will obviously support 1080p, though. Sorry, no price cuts on the Premium or Core packs. Xbox Live Marketplace will also begin vending content from New Line, Paramount, and Universal (and their properties). It's out April 29th in the US and Canada, people. Ready for your second Xbox? No? Well, it's still cheaper than that other black game console.Update: Added more pics; also, Major Nelson has live hands-on pics, too.%Gallery-2328%
New Marvel UA DLC + Achievements in April
In the coming month, Marvel Ultimate Alliance will have two new character packs featuring 8 new playable heroes and villians. The Good Guys™ are comprised of Hawkeye, The Incredible Hulk, Nightcrawler and Cyclops, and the Baddies™ include Dr. Doom, Magneto, Sabretooth, and our personal favorite, Venom. Individually, the packs will run you 500 MS points, but you can nab both for 800, saving you $2.50 USD, or $3.20 CAN. On top of the new content, their will be additional Achievements available, most likely to coincide with the new characters. Once they are unveiled, we'll give you the details. So, would you pay up to play as these characters in Marvel UA?
