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Microsoft preps standalone gold Xbox 360 controller, brings new glitz to old consoles
Redesign notwithstanding, the Xbox 360 is clearly in its twilight years. Wouldn't it be nice to give the system a retirement gift? Microsoft thinks so, as it just unveiled a stand-alone gold version of its Chrome Series controller. The wireless gamepad shares the same transforming D-pad as past special editions, but ups the flashiness by a factor of ten -- and won't require that you buy a Star Wars-themed console at the same time. Microsoft ships the $55 gold controller worldwide this August, although it will only be available at a handful of stores, including GameStop and the Microsoft Store in the US.
ATD: Microsoft Xbox head Don Mattrick leaving for unknown role (updated)
The president of Microsoft's Interactive Entertainment Business, Don Mattrick, is leaving the company according to a report at AllThingsD. His division oversees the Xbox gaming properties as well as the company's peripheral gaming initiatives. He's most recently known as the man who introduced the world to the Xbox One, as he took the stage on Microsoft's campus this past May to introduce the controller, next-gen Kinect sensor, and new console. He's been with the IEB department since 2010. He's gotten in trouble with consumers lately, after he gave dismissive answers about the Xbox One's always online policy and $499 price point. He's also the man who wrote Microsoft's public DRM reversal letter. Furthermore, ATD says Mattrick could be headed to social gaming giant Zynga; the Bay Area-based company declined a comment to our sister site Joystiq. It's unclear who would step in to Mattrick's spot if he is indeed leaving. We've yet to hear back from Microsoft, though we'll update this post when we hear more. Update: It's offical. He's the new CEO of Zynga, and you can read all about it right here.
Xbox 360 strikes live TV deal with Time Warner Cable, promises 'up to 300 of the most popular channels' later this summer
Xbox Live Gold members might have yet another reason not to go outdoors this summer, as Microsoft has will have its own version of the TWC TV app -- recently released on Samsung TVs and Roku boxes -- launching in the next few months. Joining the console's existing HBO Go stream, Time Warner Cable subscribers will be able to watch AMC, BBC World News, Bravo, CNN, Comedy Central, Food Network and more through their Xbox 360, with Kinect controls to switch channels and more with a wave of your arms. The announcement also kindly reminds us that its incoming Xbox One will let users switch between live TV and gaming in an instant, while Time Warner says it is "exploring" the platform, so stay tuned.
Unity game engine to support Xbox One, gets a boost on Windows 8 and Windows Phone
When the Unity game engine runs virtually everywhere -- well, almost -- it's no surprise that Unity Technologies has just announced that the engine will support the Xbox One. However, the firm is also revealing a partnership with Microsoft that promises a deeper level of integration on the One than we've seen on some other systems. Microsoft Studios partners will get to build Unity-based Xbox 360 and Xbox One games for free. They'll also receive tools that take full advantage of the One's tricks, including cloud computing, matchmaking, improved Kinect gestures and SmartGlass. Developers who aren't console-inclined are covered as well: the partnership will give all Unity Pro 4 customers free access to Windows 8 and Windows Phone 8 development add-ons once they're available this summer. While there's no guarantee that game producers are more likely to target Microsoft's ecosystem than they have in the past, the Unity deal could lower some of the costs and technology barriers. And there may be more: Microsoft has dropped hints that it will provide further details on its support of indie console app development sometime in the near future.
PSA: You can now use your Amazon account to log into Lovefilm
You might be able to knock one password off your list, as you now have the option to log in to your Lovefilm account using Amazon credentials. The changeover is part of the online retail giant's recently announced Login With Amazon initiative, intended to let you use a universal ID for its other websites or those of third party developers. To switch, you'll need to follow the link at the source and enter both your Lovefilm and Amazon details, and may need to re-enter payment info as well. The company promised that your private data will remain "completely safe," and said that any rental lists, bookmarks, viewing history and watchlists will stay put. On the off-chance you're on Lovefilm but don't have an Amazon account, the company wouldn't be adverse to your creating one at the same time, in case you fancy physical disc media to go along with the streaming variety. That's not the only change Lovefilm users may notice however, as the service has rolled out versions of its next generation streaming app -- first seen on the PS3 -- for the Xbox 360 as well as Sony Bravia TVs, Blu-ray players and home theater systems.
Xbox 360 / PS3 / Wii disc changer shown at E3, creators say next-gen version planned
Physical media might lend itself well to the used games market (well, usually), but it does have a distinct disadvantage over digital purchases: you still have to get up and change that disc. It's a minor annoyance, but apparently enough of one to spark the creation of the Exeo Entertainment Extreme Gamer XG 10, an Xbox 360 / PlayStation 3 compatible game jukebox with room for ten retail titles. Unlike other Xbox 360 disc changers, however, this one won't void your warranty. According to Exeo Entertainment, the Extreme Gamer pipes disc data to the console through USB or ethernet ports. The operation sounds a little fishy, but Exeo Entertainment assured us the device is on the up and up -- console makers allow it to function because the data is processed on the console itself. It's a neat trick, but it does seem a little late, considering the stars of this year's E3. The company told us it's aware of this, and is already planning to build a next-gen successor. Timetable? Just as soon as they can get their hands on the Xbox One and PlayStation 4.
iFixit tears down the 2013 Xbox 360, finds surprisingly familiar insides
The Xbox 360 has gone through quite a few hardware transitions in its lifetime, but the 2013 model still intrigues us -- it's potentially the last, most advanced iteration that we'll see. iFixit must be equally curious, as it's tearing down the console just days after its launch. The shock of this latest system may rest in what hasn't changed: despite being smaller and (reportedly) quieter, the updated 360 is still using the cooling, processing power and storage of its 2010 predecessor. Most of the differences exist in the enclosure and some minor component tweaks, like the new RF module. This model isn't a revolution, then, but iFixit appreciates its more repairable design. Gamers wanting to explore this tiniest of Xbox 360s can check out the full teardown at the source link.
Microsoft Points from Xbox 360 transfer to Xbox One as real money, 'equal or greater in Marketplace value'
With the Xbox One, Microsoft is killing off the virtual currency of Xbox Live -- Microsoft Points are soon-to-be no more. But what of remaining balances? Apparently Microsoft's taking care of transfers, and even turning those points back into real currency. "When the transition takes place, the balance of Microsoft Points in an account will be retired and the customer will be given an amount in local currency that is equal or greater in Marketplace value," a Microsoft rep told our friends at Joystiq. "That value will be stored in your account and can be used similar to Microsoft Points to make purchases in the Xbox Live Marketplace." It sounds to us like you'll be making a permanent move with your account's currency from the Xbox 360 to the Xbox One -- 80 MS Points are equal to $1, currently. Regardless, it sure is nice that those virtual bucks aren't locked to a console that we'll soon be retiring to the attic.
Nyko's Smart Clip brings the second screen to your controller (hands-on)
With Microsoft and Sony making big pushes toward a second screen experience via smartphones and tablets, yet another space is opening up amongst third-party peripheral manufacturers. After all, supplemental information is great and all, but how to access it while gaming? Nyko thinks it's got a solution in the form of the Smart Clip. At first glance, the device looks a fair bit like those bluetooth gaming controls we've already seen en masse. Instead, the add-on clips your phone to your controller so you can, say, check out a map via Smart Glass or the PlayStation App without fumbling for your phone. We played around with the clip a bit, and while if folds in quite nicely, the prototype still has a ways to go, a gentle jostling knocked the Nyko rep's phone right out. Sorry about that. The rear of the arm has an adjustable device, so you can attach all manner of handsets to your controller. There are also two knobs on the bottom to tighten the arm in place -- nice, as it was a little bit wobbly when we first picked it up. Naturally, Nyko plans to have all the kinks worked out when it launches the Xbox 360, PlayStation 4 and Xbox One versions later this year for $14.99.%Gallery-191142%
Microsoft's Marc Whitten on all things Xbox One (video)
Microsoft Xbox chief product officer Marc Whitten has been with the company for quite some time -- from before the launch of the first Xbox through the company's latest gaming effort, the Xbox One. As such, he's got a longer term perspective on the Xbox brand than most folks in Redmond, so we put those kind of questions to him when we spoke for 20 minutes yesterday following the company's big stage show at The Galen Center. First and foremost, we asked about the fate of Xbox Live Arcade. Given that Xbox One will have all its games available digitally as well as physically at launch, what would become of the traditionally small game digital service? Will the marketplace change dramatically given the changing nature of game formats? Find out that and much more in the full interview, dropped just below the break.
Ubisoft E3 2013 liveblog!
In a normal E3 year, we might not liveblog Ubisoft's annual press briefing, but this year's different. This year's special. And Ubisoft is known for being an especially supporting partner when it comes to new game hardware launches, so we're here in downtown Los Angeles at the ... Los Angeles Theater to bring you breaking coverage of the French game publisher's next-gen plans. With Assassin's Creed 4 and Watch Dogs out of the way, what else does Ubi have up its sleeves? Let's find out below! June 10, 2013 5:45:00 PM EDT
Electronic Arts E3 2013 liveblog!
When EA reps took the stage at Microsoft's Xbox One unveiling event a few weeks back, they were part of a very small group of game companies represented. The world got a first look at EA's new sports game engine, Ignite, and a tease of what to expect come this holiday, but we're betting there'll be even more interesting stuff presented during the company's press briefing this afternoon at E3 2013. A closer look at Battlefield 4 and a thorough detailing of EA Sports' various annual franchises are locks, as is a second premiere of Respawn's new game Titanfall. What's got us really excited is a possible Mirror's Edge sequel reveal. Find out with us in real time with the liveblog just below the break. June 10, 2013 3:45:00 PM EDT
World of Tanks heads to consoles for the first time on the Xbox 360
The free-to-play tank battle title that was exclusive to PC gamers is heading to the Xbox 360. World of Tanks Xbox 360 Edition will mark the game's first foray on a console and will be free for all Xbox Live Gold members. You can expect 15-on-15 multiplayer warfare this summer -- only on the Xbox 360. Follow all of our E3 2013 coverage at our event hub.
Xbox 360 gets a One-like redesign: estimated pricing starts at $200, shipping today
While all eyes are on Xbox One news at Microsoft's E3 keynote, the company's just announced that the Xbox 360 is getting yet another design iteration. Taking cues from the "modern look and feel of the Xbox One," it's touted as smaller, sleeker and quieter. Microsoft did a good job keeping this quiet, as it's shipping today in the US, UK, Ireland, Canada and Australia, with other markets receiving it over the coming months. "Hundreds of new games" are apparently headed to the 360 over the next couple of years, proving the old console's still got some life in it yet, and an Xbox Live subscription will net you some older ones for free, come July. The estimated retail price for the console with 4GB of storage is $200; adding a Kinect to that option hikes the cost up to $300. Or, swap the Kinect out for a 250GB HDD and it'll also cost $300. Follow all of our E3 2013 coverage at our event hub.
Xbox Live will offer two free games per month starting July, includes Assassin's Creed 2 and Halo 3
Kicking off Microsoft's announcements, the company has said that Xbox Live will start offering free Xbox 360 games for its paying members, starting this July. In the run-up to the Xbox One's launch, you'll be able to pick up two titles each month, gratis -- if you're an Xbox Live Gold member. If it sounds familiar, it's because it sounds a lot like one of the benefits Sony's PS Plus has offered its subscribers. The Live UI on the older Xbox 360 console will also be getting a refresh, catching up with the more modern styling we've seen teased on the Xbox One. Follow all of our E3 2013 coverage at our event hub.
Microsoft E3 2013 Xbox liveblog!
You already know what the Xbox One looks like, and you've read our exhaustive coverage of its new controller, new (required and included) Kinect, and the SoC powering everything -- today is all about games. While we were thrilled to get a look at the box formally known as "Durango / Kryptos," we're even more excited to get a look at the next-generation of software it'll run. Follow along with us after the break as we get our first major look at the next wave of console gaming from Microsoft, directly from E3 2013. June 10, 2013 12:15:00 PM EDT
E3 2013: Get your Microsoft, Sony, Ubisoft and EA liveblogs right here!
E3 2013 is nearly upon us, and this year's press briefing lineup is an eensy bit different from past years -- most notably, there are four stage presentations on Monday alone, and Nintendo's sitting this year out. Rather than spreading out the gaming news cavalcade across one and a half days, 2013's press briefings are all Monday (excepting Nintendo's live video broadcast on Tuesday morning, of course, which we'll have available ahead of its 10AM EDT kickoff on Wednesday morning). The full list for tomorrow's proceedings follows, including timestamps and links for you to set your alarm clocks and clicking fingers by (respectively): 12:30PM to 2:00PM EDT: Microsoft Xbox briefing liveblog 4:00PM to 5:00PM EDT: Electronic Arts briefing liveblog 6:00PM to 7:00PM EDT: Ubisoft briefing liveblog 9:00PM to 12:00AM EDT: Sony PlayStation briefing liveblog [Image credit: 'halo666']
Skylanders Swap Force launches October 13th, headed next-gen as well
The Skylanders aren't just evolving into combinable characters in their next entry, they're also heading to Xbox One and PlayStation 4. Skylanders Swap Force was given an October 13th release date today, alongside news of its two new platforms (in addition to being on basically every other video game platform in existence). Like previous entries in the Skylanders series, Swap Force employs a wired power pad where physical Skylanders toys (Swap Force versions seen above), power-ups, and new levels can be placed and then played in-game. This October's entry allows for toys from both the original Skylanders game and Giants to work with it; that also applies to PS4 and Xbox One versions. As for the launch date of the Xbox One and PlayStation 4 versions ... well, that's a question of when Microsoft and Sony launch their consoles. The game will otherwise launch on Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Nintendo 3DS, Wii and Wii U on October 13th.
Diablo 3 bedevils consoles on September 3rd, heading to Xbox 360 as well
Diablo 3 isn't a Sony console exclusive anymore, it seems, with Blizzard Entertainment today announcing it's heading to Xbox 360 as well on September 3rd. The game will arrive for the PlayStation 3 on the same day as the 360 version, with the PlayStation 4 version arriving at an unknown point afterward. It's unknown if the game is also headed to Microsoft's next-gen console, Xbox One, though Blizzard told our friends at Joystiq, "We don't have any further platform announcements to share at this time." Not exactly a straight up "no!" The console version of the game is said to contain all the updates that PC / Mac users have enjoyed thus far, not to mention much needed relief for your clicking finger.
Pandora launches TV / console-friendly HTML5 site
With 70 million active monthly users, we suspect the world isn't desperately searching for another way to listen to Pandora. That said, we certainly can't fault the internet radio provider for attempting to optimize the experience for as many platforms as possible. The latest push comes in the form of tv.pandora.com, a service the company claims is optimized for that proverbial "10-foot experience." The HTML5-based site plays nicely with your Xbox 360 at the moment, and Pandora says that it'll be coming to further TVs, set top boxes and consoles in the months to come. tv.pandora.com has a simplified navigation system, play, pause, skip and thumbs up and down functionality and 500 curated stations to get you started. You can check the site out today, or peep a press release on the matter after the break.