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Thread: News and Notes: Video Game Edition

  1. #301
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    by Keza MacDonald April 17, 2013



    Everything From Today's Nintendo Direct
    New Yoshi's Island! New Zelda! New localised games from Japan!


    The two big stories from today's Nintendo Direct were definitely the announcements of a new 2D/3D hybrid Zelda game set in the same world as A Link to the Past and a new Yoshi's Island, but there was lots more to absorb. Here's everything that happened all in one place

    3DS NEWS

    The broadcast kicked off with some new details on Mario Golf: World Tour's online features - which sound very much like Mario Kart 7's, right down the to community integration.

    We also got a new trailer and a release date for Mario and Luigi: Dream Team - it's coming to Europe on July 12th and North America on August 11th. The new footage showed off some of the game's new features, including controlling a Luigi katamari in the game's dream world.

    A new Mario Party game is coming to 3DS in winter, this time with 7 different game boards, all of which have different rules and features. Some are designed for quick play, other for epic contests. It's got 81 new minigames, including ones that make use of the 3DS AR cards.

    The first new game of the broadcast was a new Yoshi's Island announcement - the first game in the series since 2006. It looked gorgeous - more like the SNES Yoshi's Island than later spin-offs such at the N64's Yoshi's Story. No release window was given, but just look at it:

    Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D will have an optional Easy Mode for those who found the Wii iteration too difficult. It also got some new footage:

    New footage showed off how Animal Crossing: New Leaf's Dream Suite works: it lets you visit other people's towns and wreck them up in a dream world without losing your friendships over ruined flowers and peach trees. Lucky Europeans are also getting the new Animal Crossing 3DS XL model.



    A trio of Level-5 eShop games are making their way West: Starship Damrey, Bugs vs Tanks and Attack of the Friday Monsters: A Tokyo Tale. At least two of the three look really interesting - I'm particularly intrigued by first-person space-horror in Starship Damrey:

    Whilst we're on a Japanese theme, JRPG fans will be delighted to hear that Bravely Default: Flying Fairy will be with us later this year. I think the bravest thing is that Square-Enix evidently isn't changing the title.


    WII U NEWS

    Today's Nintendo Direct was almost entirely 3DS-focussed, but there were a couple of significant Wii U stories too. First up, Pikmin 3 will be with us in just a few months (August 4th, to be exact, in the US at least) - replete with another new pink bug-eyed flying Pikmin type, which was hidden sneakily away in last year's E3 trailer (and the box art).

    Secondly, the next Wii U system update is coming next week, and it will let you keep downloading games when the system is in standby, and disables that ridiculous auto-shut-down feature whilst the console is actively downloading. If you've ever been the victim of that particular Wii U foible, this will make you very happy. Loading times are also being improved (hurrah!), and you will be able to copy data between two USB devices too.

    Here's one for ultra-long-term Nintendo fans: Earthbound (otherwise known as Mother) will finally, FINALLY be coming to the Virtual Console later this year. FINALLY.

  2. #302
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    FINALLY indeed.

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    Enjoy buying a Wii U to play it.

    Dream Team will make me buy a 3DS if I don't have one when New Leaf comes out in June. Donkey Kong looks cool but it's just a Wii port so meh. I'm probably the only person excited for a new Mario Party but I liked the DS one, for a while. Never played the first Yoshi's Island. Never played a Zelda game for more than a half hour. I'm interested in Mario Golf if it's like the Hot Shots series for Sony systems like I think it is.

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    I have Animal Crossing on preorder, and will soon have Mario Golf in that status as well. If you get a 3ds hit me up. I would be interested in some golf. Heck I would be up for hot shots on the vita too.

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    What's your PSN? I'll probably get a 3DS for Animal Crossing. Possibly that 3DS XL bundle.

    I love the Hot Shots series but I'm so terrible at the Vita version because there's no way to get an exact wind mph, you have to drop grass and see how fast it blows and just guess and I'm terrible at it. I'm glad Mario Golf gives you an exact wind speed.

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    Nintendo Direct April 2013


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    By James Brightman WED 24 APR 2013


    Microsoft to announce next-gen Xbox on May 21
    As expected, the company will be holding a special event prior to E3 to unveil its new Xbox [UPDATE: The event will be live streamed]


    Microsoft finally announced today that it's planning to unveil its next generation plans during a special event on May 21 at Microsoft's Redmond campus. The news came via press invites sent out to media this afternoon.

    The event, dubbed "A New Generational Revealed", lists a start time of 10 a.m. Pacific and mentions that Don Mattrick will lead the announcement. And in case there's any doubt that the event is to announce a new Xbox, the invitation also includes the Twitter hashtag #XboxReveal.

    Given all the controversial rumors about the next Xbox being always-online and requiring players to possibly need to be online even to play solo, it'll be very interesting to see what the final feature set on the new hardware ends up being. Many are expecting hardware specifications somewhat similar to what Sony is including in the PS4, and given Sony's developer-centric and more open approach to the PS4, a number of developers are hopeful that Microsoft will be equally open with the next Xbox.

    We'll have more details soon.

    Update: Microsoft representatives have confirmed to GamesIndustry International that the event will be streamed live on Xbox.com, Xbox Live and it will appear on Spike TV. Additionally, Microsoft will be showcasing its next-gen lineup for the next Xbox at E3 this year with an event at the Galen Center in Los Angeles on June 10. That event will be streamed online as well.

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    By Mike Williams THU 25 APR 2013 3:50AM GMT


    Nintendo won't have a press conference at E3 2013
    The company decides that the Nintendo Direct approach is better


    In its financial results briefing, Nintendo president Satoru Iwata announced that the company will not have the traditional press conference event at this year's Electronic Entertainment Expo. Instead, the company will be hosting two closed, software-focused events for press and distributors.

    "We have decided not to host a large-scale presentation targeted at everyone in the international audience where we announce new information as we did in the past," said Iwata in a transcript of the briefing. "Instead, at the E3 show this year, we are planning to host a few smaller events that are specifically focused on our software lineup for the U.S. market. There will be one closed event for American distributors, and we will hold another closed hands-on experience event, for mainly the Western gaming media."

    "During the E3 period, we will utilize our direct communication tools, such as Nintendo Direct, to deliver information to our Japanese audience, including those who are at this financial briefing, mainly focusing on the software that we are going to launch in Japan, and we will take the same approach outside Japan for the overseas fans as well."

    Iwata explained that Nintendo found that the broad conference event was not efficient, since it wasn't specifically tailored to a certain audience.

    "As video game fans are looking for information about games, it seems that they are less interested in sales figures that investors and analysts on the other hand attach much greater importance to, and distribution partners are looking for information on how we are going to market our products in the immediate future," said Iwata.

    "Given that we now have an established method such as Nintendo Direct, we feel that we will be able to deliver our messages more appropriately and effectively by doing so individually based on the various needs of different groups of people."

    This year's E3 is looking to be a software-focused event overall. Sony already announced the PlayStation 4 console, leaving a software slate, final hardware design, and retail price for a potential E3 reveal. Microsoft just announced that its next Xbox event will take place on May 21, weeks before E3. The company later confirmed that software for the next Xbox would be showcased at E3 itself. And now Nintendo follows suit, leaving us with what should be a different E3 2013.

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    It's a cop-out, but they have a point. E3 conferences are pretty much designed to make you try to please everyone, and therefore fail.

    Plus, it's going to be difficult to upstage the sexy next-generation console jizz-fest.

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    Quote Originally Posted by The Rick View Post
    I have Animal Crossing on preorder...
    The kids are bugging the hell out of me for this, they have it on the Wii and DS already and play the hell out of it.

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    By Eddie Makuch May 3, 2013 7:31AM PDT



    3D Mario for Wii U launching by October?
    Nintendo reportedly planning to ship new Mario title for struggling system this fall.


    Nintendo will ship the all-new 3D Mario for Wii U by October 2013, CVG has learned based on discussions with executive-level retail representatives. No further details were divulged.

    Nintendo president Satoru Iwata announced the game during a Nintendo Direct presentation in January. The game will be playable at the 2013 Electronic Entertainment Expo, scheduled for June 11-13 in Los Angeles, California.

    Developing the new 3D Mario game for Wii U is Nintendo EAD Tokyo, the team behind Mario Galaxy, Mario Galaxy 2, and Super Mario 3D Land.

    The new 3D Mario game is one of many marquee titles Nintendo is looking towards to help spur Wii U sales. Other games coming to the platform in 2013 include Pikmin 3, The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker HD, and The Wonderful 101.

    Also in development for the Wii U are new Mario Kart, Zelda, Smash Bros., and Yoshi games.

    The Wii U has struggled thus far, selling 400,000 units in 2013 and 3.45 million systems overall since launch. Nintendo's plan to turn things around includes releasing major first-party titles on a regular basis beginning in August with Pikmin 3 and better communicating the novelty of the system.

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    By Eddie Makuch May 3, 2013 11:08AM PDT




    Eternal Darkness spiritual successor teased
    Original game's creators will debut Shadow of the Eternals sequel on Monday; Denis Dyack is involved.


    The creators of survival horror game Eternal Darkness: Sanity's Requiem today teased a spiritual successor to Silicon Knights' 2002 GameCube game called Shadow of the Eternals.

    The game's teaser trailer on IGN points out that the title is in development at Precursor Games, an all-new outfit.

    According to comments made by IGN staff on Twitter, Silicon Knights founder and president Denis Dyack is attached to the project in some form.

    A crowd-funding campaign for Shadow of the Eternals will go live on Monday, though further details were not divulged.

    The original Eternal Darkness originated as a Nintendo 64 project before being shifted to the GameCube, where it was the platform's first M-rated game.

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    By Eddie Makuch May 3, 2013 6:57AM PDT


    South Park: Stick of Truth still on track for 2013
    Ubisoft confirms Obsidian Entertainment's role-playing game still scheduled to launch later this year.


    South Park: The Stick of Truth will launch in 2013 as previously announced, an Ubisoft representative confirmed with Videogamer today.

    No further update on how the game is progressing was provided, but the representative said South Park: The Stick of Truth is still "scheduled for release in calendar 2013."

    Ubisoft purchased the game for $3.2 million in January as part of the THQ bankruptcy auction.

    South Park: The Stick of Truth was supposed to launch March 5, 2013 for Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and PC. If past arrangements still hold, downloadable content for the game will come first to Xbox Live.

    Former publisher THQ delayed the game in November, with then-president Jason Rubin saying he believes the game has the potential to be one of 2013's biggest.

    "I believe South Park's market opportunity is significant," Rubin said at the time. "It is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated titles of calendar 2013. It is also an expansive title, encompassing multiple television seasons' worth of content. THQ is committed to giving gamers no less than the rich South Park game they have been waiting for and deserve."

    South Park: The Stick of Truth is one of three titles developer Obsidian Entertainment is currently working on. The studio is also building isometric role-playing game Project Eternity and a next-generation title.

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    By Eddie Makuch May 3, 2013 7:31AM PDT



    3D Mario for Wii U launching by October?
    Nintendo reportedly planning to ship new Mario title for struggling system this fall.


    Nintendo will ship the all-new 3D Mario for Wii U by October 2013, CVG has learned based on discussions with executive-level retail representatives. No further details were divulged.

    Nintendo president Satoru Iwata announced the game during a Nintendo Direct presentation in January. The game will be playable at the 2013 Electronic Entertainment Expo, scheduled for June 11-13 in Los Angeles, California.

    Developing the new 3D Mario game for Wii U is Nintendo EAD Tokyo, the team behind Mario Galaxy, Mario Galaxy 2, and Super Mario 3D Land.

    The new 3D Mario game is one of many marquee titles Nintendo is looking towards to help spur Wii U sales. Other games coming to the platform in 2013 include Pikmin 3, The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker HD, and The Wonderful 101.

    Also in development for the Wii U are new Mario Kart, Zelda, Smash Bros., and Yoshi games.

    The Wii U has struggled thus far, selling 400,000 units in 2013 and 3.45 million systems overall since launch. Nintendo's plan to turn things around includes releasing major first-party titles on a regular basis beginning in August with Pikmin 3 and better communicating the novelty of the system.

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    So, EA got the Star Wars license. Looks like I won't be buying another Star Wars game for many years.

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    Quote Originally Posted by The_Mike View Post
    So, EA got the Star Wars license. Looks like I won't be buying another Star Wars game for many years.
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    By Brendan Sinclair MON 06 MAY 2013 8:15PM GMT



    EA signs multi-year Star Wars deal
    Disney deal gives publisher exclusive rights to make new core games based on sci-fi franchise

    The difficulties of Star Wars: The Old Republic have not soured Electronic Arts on the seminal sci-fi saga. Today EA and The Walt Disney Co. announced a multi-year licensing agreement that gives the publisher exclusive worldwide rights to make new Star Wars games.

    The deal calls for EA to create new Star Wars games "across the most popular gaming genres and platforms" for a core gaming audience. Disney will still have limited rights to make new Star Wars games for mobile, social, and Web platforms.

    No games were announced, but EA did confirm that it has lined up at least three studios to work on Star Wars projects. In addition to BioWare, which is continuing to handle The Old Republic, Battlefield franchise developer DICE and Dead Space studio Visceral Games are slated to produce Star Wars games. Their new titles are said to "borrow from" the film series, but EA is positioning them as "entirely original with all new stories and gameplay."

    Disney signalled that it would be looking to work with external developers on the Star Wars series last month, when it shuttered LucasArts, except for a handful of employees who would remain on board to handle duties associated with licensing the company's intellectual property. Disney originally picked up LucasArts as part of its $4.05 billion acquisition of Lucasfilm last October.

    Financial terms and exact length of the Electronic Arts agreement were not disclosed.

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    By Eddie Makuch May 6, 2013 11:13AM PDT


    Sony teases 'intriguing game announcements' for this week
    PlayStation maker says gamers should expect a "busy week" for game announcements.


    Sony is preparing multiple "intriguing" game announcements for later this week, SCEE blog manager Fred Dutton teased on the PlayStation Blog recently (via The Sixth Axis).

    "We've a busy week in the offing, with some intriguing game announcements planned," Dutton wrote. No further details were provided.

    Sony is rumored to be working on multiple unannounced games, including Gran Turismo 6 and an all-new franchise called The Order: 1886, among others.

    As The Sixth Axis Points out, Sony has made a habit of announcing major games in the weeks leading up to the Electronic Entertainment Expo. These include Little Big Planet 2, InFamous 2, and MotorStorm Apocalypse.

    Sony's E3 2013 presentation is slated for Monday, June 10.

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    By Eddie Makuch May 6, 2013 9:01AM PDT


    Next Xbox will not require Internet connection - Report
    Leaked internal Microsoft memo for next-gen platform states system will be "tolerant of today's Internet."


    Numerous reports have claimed Microsoft's next Xbox will require an Internet connection to function, but these assertions are false, according to an internal Microsoft memo obtained by Ars Technica.


    "Durango is designed to deliver the future of entertainment while engineered to be tolerant of today's Internet," reads a line from the memo, reportedly sent to all full-time staffers working on the next Xbox.

    "There are a number of scenarios that our users expect to work without an Internet connection, and those should 'just work' regardless of their current connection status," it goes on. "Those include, but are not limited to: playing a Blu-ray disc, watching live TV, and yes playing a single-player game."

    It is not clear when the memo was sent to developers. A Microsoft representative told GameSpot, "We're excited to share more about the new generation of games, TV, and entertainment on May 21, but have nothing further to share at this time."

    Most recently, noted Windows blogger Paul Thurrott claimed the Xbox 720 will require an Internet connection to function, but suggested that the feature "isn't as Draconian as many seem to believe."

    Microsoft is widely believed to formally unveil its next Xbox during an intimate event at the company's headquarters in Redmond, Washington on May 21.

    This announcement will "mark the beginning of a new generation of games, TV, and entertainment." The event will be streamed through Xbox.com, Xbox Live, and Spike TV in the United States and Canada.

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    By Eddie Makuch May 10, 2013 12:19PM PDT


    EA exec sells entire stake in company
    EA Sports EVP Andrew Wilson unloads all 32,085 shares for $687,000 after company hit highest value since end of 2011.


    EA Sports executive vice president Andrew Wilson has sold his entire stake in Electronic Arts.

    As revealed in an SEC document filed Thursday, Wilson has sold all 32,085 shares he held in the company at $21.42 each, earning himself more than $687,000.

    Wilson now holds zero shares in EA and is the only EA executive in such a position. All other EA executives listed on the publisher's website carry stock in the company.

    An EA representative declined to comment on Wilson's stock sale or give an update regarding the executive's status at the company moving forward.

    After announcing an exclusive Star Wars deal with Disney on Monday, full-year revenue of $3.79 billion Tuesday, and a FIFA license extension Wednesday, EA shares skyrocketed.

    They closed Wednesday up more than 17 percent to $21.56, marking their highest level since the end of 2011.

    If Wilson had cashed out earlier in the week, he would have received thousands of dollars less, as EA shares bounced between $17-$18 on Monday and Tuesday.

    EA shares are continuing to climb today, up 3.19 percent (+0.69) to $22.33 at press time.

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    By Dan Chiappini May 9, 2013 7:30PM PDT



    New Xbox will be named Infinity - Report
    New console to be called Xbox Infinity; development kits already in the hands of studios.


    The next Microsoft console will be named Xbox Infinity, according to a report by the UK arm of the International Business Times.

    Unnamed sources, who are believed to be involved in the development of the new console, confirmed to the publication that the new hardware will simply be called Xbox Infinity. These claims mirror those of a reportedly leaked image, which recently appeared on the Reddit website.

    IBTimes UK sources also revealed that development units have already been made available to software developer partners. Previous rumours suggested that some of Microsoft's next-generation titles may have been cancelled, while others may be as much as six months behind schedule.

    Microsoft is expected to officially unveil its next home console to the public at its event on May 21. Rumours have circulated for months regarding the branding that the Redmond, Washington, software giant will elect to use for the Xbox 360's successor, with Xbox 720, the Next Xbox, and the device's development codename, Durango all being used in lieu of any official moniker.

    GameSpot contacted Microsoft seeking clarification, but a spokesperson declined, saying, "We do not comment on rumours or speculation. We are always thinking about what is next for our platform, but we don't have anything further to share at this time."

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    The X-Box name is probably right. Since it is reported that they are wanting to integrate Windows 8 into the machine. Turning the 8 ninety degrees to name their machine is a perfect fit. Also they can speak to their machine being the be all end all machine for your living room.

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    I'd be happy with that name. Would also be very happy if the Xbox after that is called Xbox Beyond.

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    It better have an epic Batman Beyond game then.

  24. #324
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    That Xbox infinity logo image from reddit was conjured up by a reddit user. Way too many sites reporting it as a leaked image

  25. #325
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    My issue with Infinity is where do they go from there? If their advertising mentions "Infinite entertainment" or something similar, which they would, then why would you ever need to upgrade?

  26. #326
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    Wouldn't be the first with the Playstation 3/Vita It Only Does Everything campaign.

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    Quote Originally Posted by Jez View Post
    My issue with Infinity is where do they go from there? If their advertising mentions "Infinite entertainment" or something similar, which they would, then why would you ever need to upgrade?

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    Infinity Plus 1.

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    By Eddie Makuch May 16, 2013 8:09AM PDT



    Wii U and 3DS-focused Nintendo Direct tomorrow
    Latest online briefing to provide updates on summer Wii U and 3DS games and discuss future Wii U titles.


    Nintendo will discuss future 3DS and Wii U games tomorrow during the latest Nintendo Direct online video briefing, the Mario maker announced today.


    The Nintendo Direct will provide updates on this summer's Wii U and 3DS titles and also shed light on Wii U titles to release this fall and "onward."

    The briefing will take place through a special Nintendo website on May 17 at 7 a.m. PDT/10 a.m. EDT. GameSpot will have full coverage of the announcements.

    The Wii U has struggled since launch, selling 3.45 million units worldwide and reportedly only 55,000 systems in the United States during April. Nintendo has apologized for a lack of software, saying this will be corrected beginning in August with the release of Pikmin 3.

    The all-new 3D mario game for Wii U announced in January is rumored to launch by October. Nintendo also has a new Mario Kart game in development for the system, as well as a Smash Bros. title and two Legend of Zelda games, among others.

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    By Dan Chiappini May 15, 2013 8:28PM PDT



    EA Dropping Online Passes - Report
    Future EA games won't require Online Passes; the service is being scrapped after tepid player response.


    EA will be dropping Online Passes from all of its future games, citing lacklustre player support, according to a report by Venture Beat.

    EA senior director of corporate communications John Reseburg revealed the news. “Yes, we’re discontinuing Online Pass,” he said “None of our new EA titles will include that feature.”

    EA is not the only game publisher that elects to bundle an Online Pass with new copies of its games. The one-time codes are designed to restrict access to key features, such as online multiplayer. Players who buy a second-hand version of the game are given the option to purchase an Online Pass for a fee, prior to being able to play with others.


    “Initially launched as an effort to package a full menu of online content and services, many players didn’t respond to the format,” Reseburg said. “We’ve listened to the feedback and decided to do away with it, moving forward.”

    “We’re still committed to creating content and services that enhance the game experience well beyond the day you first start playing,” Reseburg said.

    Online Passes have often been viewed as ways for developers and publishers to offset the financial shortfall of not seeing revenue when games are traded in and resold through retailers. Last November, Square Enix revealed that it would make the Contracts mode in Hitman: Absolution accessible to all players. The trend continued in March with the Tomb Raider reboot providing unfettered access to online play without a key, while Insomniac Games’ upcoming shooter Fuse--which is published through the EA Partners program, and built around four-player cooperative play--will also ship without the need for an Online Pass.

  31. #331
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    It amuses me that even in backing down from their simplistic greed, EA cannot help but indulge in doublespeak. They seem surprised that players did not offer support or 'respond to the format'. Why would you expect any kind of consumer to be pleased to pay more money for something they already paid for? And games were able to package a full menu of online content and services for years before online passes were dreamed up, so it's simply a lie to act as though these were created specifically to finance a new mode of gameplay. It was about maximising profits and crippling the second hand market. It didn't work, but I doubt EA's sincerity here. I suspect they have only dropped online passes because they have reason to believe that the next generation will allow for a different mechanism to punish second-hand gamers.

  32. #332
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    How dare EA of all people complain about people not responding to stuff.

    I asked a 6 months ago why my (paid for) FIFA 13 creation centre contents dont work. Did they fuck get back to me.

  33. #333
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    The reason they've dropped it is already apparent. They can make shitloads of money from micro-transactions and they are already doing so (FIFA, Mass Effect multiplayer, etc). Having an online pass just prevents potential 'consumers'.

  34. #334
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    Good point. Why put off people coming to multiplayer when you can give them 'multiplayer' and then sell then individual weapons and skins.

  35. #335
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    As long as it doesn't become "pay to win" micro transactions, I'm fine with it.

  36. #336
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    By Eddie Makuch May 24, 2013 5:44PM PDT



    Xbox One preowned plan revealed?
    [UPDATE] Retail sources claim Microsoft and publishers will take a percentage of every used game; Microsoft says reports are "inaccurate and incomplete"; new report says no secondhand fees at all.


    [UPDATE 2] Sources have told Polygon that the Xbox One will not require gamers pay an activation fee to play used games, but will mandate regular checks to verify the authenticity of games.

    Microsoft is also reportedly mulling over the idea of special "exemption codes" that could be provided to those in Internet-free scenarios, like active-duty soldiers.

    [UPDATE] Following the publication of this story, Microsoft director of Xbox Live programming Larry "Major Nelson" Hryb provided a new statement on Xbox One and used games.

    "The ability to trade in and resell games is important to gamers and to Xbox," he said. "Xbox One is designed to support the trade in and resale of games. Reports about our policies for trade in and resale are inaccurate and incomplete. We will disclose more information in the near future."

    The original story follows below.

    According to retail sources speaking with MCV, retailers will be able to charge whatever they want for secondhand Xbox One games, but Microsoft and publishers will receive a cut of every transaction.

    The information leak comes after Microsoft reportedly briefed "key" partners on its plans for the secondhand market as it relates to the Xbox One, something Microsoft has been coy about.

    The system will reportedly work as such: consumers can trade in physical Xbox One game discs only at retailers that have agreed to Microsoft's terms and conditions and have integrated the company's cloud-enabled Azure preowned technology into their own.

    The traded-in title is then registered on Microsoft's systems as having been resold, and the data files will be cleared from their Xbox One account. Such a system would explain Microsoft's position that the Xbox One must "check in" with its servers once every 24 hours.

    Retailers are then able to resell the used game at whatever price point they see fit. As part of this initiative, the publisher of the game will automatically receive a cut of the sale, along with Microsoft. The rest is revenue for the retailer.

    It is unclear what this percentage will be, though Consoledeals.co.uk claims the portion paid to retailers will be 10 percent, well below the margins retailers have come to expect from secondhand games. This could negatively impact retailers like GameStop, which rely on the secondhand market for a healthy portion of their overall business.

    During an earnings call yesterday, GameStop management brushed aside questions regarding the Xbox One and used games, instead saying it will allow Microsoft to announce plans in due time.

    The site also suggests, based on information from a senior employee at "one of the UK's largest video game retailers," that the rumored Xbox One preowned activation fee will be £35 ($52). It is unclear if this fee will be an additional cost on top of the sticker price for secondhand games.

    Microsoft's official stance on the Xbox One used-game scenario is that the platform has been designed "to enable our customers to trade in and resell games at retail."

    "We know there is some confusion around used games on Xbox One and wanted to provide a bit of clarification on exactly what we've confirmed today," Microsoft said earlier this week. "While there have been many potential scenarios discussed, today we have only confirmed that we designed Xbox One to enable our customers to trade in and resell games at retail."

    "Beyond that, we have not confirmed any specific scenarios."

    Sony has also dodged questions regarding used games on the PlayStation 4. The company has confirmed that preowned titles will play on the next-generation system, but said decisions about activation fees will be left up to individual publishers.

    "It's a publisher decision," Sony said in February. "We are not talking about it. Sorry."

  37. #337
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    By Eddie MakuchMay 24, 2013 5:36AM PDT



    Xbox One box art confirmed
    Microsoft reveals cover designs sticking with green hue for next-generation games.


    Microsoft has confirmed the official Xbox One box art design.

    The company provided an image of the box art for Xbox One launch title Forza Motorsport 5 over Twitter and through the Turn 10 Studios Facebook page.

    The box art matches up with the designs that appeared on the Battlefield 4 website earlier this week. Microsoft is sticking with the green hue found on current Xbox 360 games.

    The Xbox One launches later this year, though pricing information and specific launch timing have not been divulged. According to comments from GameStop management, the Xbox One will launch at a lower price point than the Xbox 360 did in 2005.

  38. #338
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    By Brendan Sinclair TUE 28 MAY 2013



    Xbox One games will be region-locked
    Microsoft's next-gen console to keep games from one region from running on another region's hardware


    Any hope that Microsoft's next console would be importer-friendly has been squashed, as Digital Trends has received confirmation that Xbox One will prevent software of one region from playing on the hardware of another.

    "Similar to the movie and music industry, games must meet country-specific regulatory guidelines before they are cleared for sale," a Microsoft representative told the site. "We will continue to work with our partners to follow these guidelines with Xbox One."

    Like most home consoles, Microsoft's Xbox and Xbox 360 were also region-locked. There is one current exception, as Sony did not mandate region locks for PlayStation 3 games.

  39. #339
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    By Mike Williams TUE 28 MAY 2013 4:43PM


    Xbox One deal worth more than $3 billion for AMD
    Former employee's deals bring in big money for AMD


    AMD's deal to provide the system-on-a-chip for Microsoft's Xbox One is worth more than $3 billion. That information comes from the LinkedIn profile of Bob Feldstein, former AMD vice president of strategic development and current Nvidia vice president of technology licensing. Feldstein left AMD in July of 2012, after handling the deals that found the company's silicon in the Xbox One, PlayStation 4, and Wii U.

    "AMD provided a custom silicon solution to Microsoft for the XBox One, a game console and entertainment device," reads Feldstein's profile.

    "My involvement was focused on business management and supply agreement negotiations. This required the coordination of multiple functional teams within AMD, as well as regular customer meetings with leadership teams responsible for handling the challenges of complex, multi-year deals. This project is valued at [$3 billion]."

    In January of this year, AMD accused Feldstein and several other executives of stealing more than 100,000 proprietary documents and electronic files before leaving for Nvidia. AMD also alleged that Feldstein recruited one of the other defendants and possibly other employees for Nvidia.

    AMD having chips in all three consoles should help the company, which has been behind rivals Nvidia and Intel. The company reported a net loss of $146 million for the first quarter of 2013, versus the net income reported by each competitor during the same period.
    [Image via Wired]

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    by OWEN GOOD Sunday 3:00pm



    Microsoft Doesn't Own XboxOne.com, Files Dispute Against Guy Who Does

    Though it may seem ridiculous that Microsoft would name its new console without already owning the domain name for it, there are a couple of mitigating factors here. One is that the guy who owns XboxOne.com registered the name almost two years ago. That's some good guessing!

    Fusible reports that Microsoft has filed a complaint with the National Arbitration Forum over the domain name to thwart the lucky cybersquatter, whom records say is a resident of the U.K. and registered the name in December 2011. XboxOne.net also is covered in the same complaint, indicating it is owned by the same person, Fusible notes.

  41. #341
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    LUKE PLUNKETT Today 12:00am



    Even eBay Is Making The Most Of The Xbox One's Bad PR

    We've all had our fun with the Xbox One's less-than-stellar reveal, but for eBay, the console's problems are more than just a joke; they're a way for Nintendo to make some sales.

    eBay Germany's Facebook page ran the above ad over the weekend. The image is fine, but it's the text underneath that's getting the jab in. it reads:

    -Keine Gebraucht-Spiel-Sperren
    -Keine Online-Pflicht
    -Kein Gedöns
    Which translated means:

    - No used-game locking
    - No mandatory online
    - No fuss
    Cute.

    Wii U [eBay Germany, via Destructoid].

  42. #342
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    By Martin Gaston May 29, 2013 6:45AM PDT



    PlayStation 4 devs required to support Vita Remote Play - Report
    All PS4 games, with the exception of PlayStation Eye titles, required to support Remote Play, suggests report.


    PlayStation 4 developers are being required to include support for Sony's PS Vita Remote Play function in their upcoming games, according to a new report on Digital Foundry.


    The only games excluded from Remote Play support will be those that use the PlayStation 4 camera, according to Digital Foundry's "trusted PlayStation 4 developer source with a proven track record."

    The move, if true, would help bolster the library of the PS Vita, as well as offering functionality integral to Nintendo's Wii U console.

    Unlike with the PlayStation 3, Remote Play is supposed on the PlayStation 4 at an operative system level, allowing developers to utilise the service without making concessions to the speed of their software. The service works by rendering the game as video and transmitting the images wirelessly over the users' local network to the PS Vita in a fashion similar to cloud-powered game services like OnLive.

    Sony, which purchased cloud-streaming technology Gaikai last year, showed PlayStation 4 platformer Knack running on the Vita via Remote Play when it unveiled its next-generation console back in February.

  43. #343
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    By Eddie Makuch May 31, 2013 11:17AM PDT


    EA teases 'Grass Effect,' 'Dead Face' for E3
    [UPDATE] Publisher hints that Mass Effect/Plants vs. Zombies mashup will be revealed at trade show next month; "Dead Face" also teased.


    [UPDATE] Following the publication of this story, the official EA Twitter account teased that the Dead Space franchise may also be involved in the rumored mash-up.

    "Zombies on Tau Volantis!" reads a tweet from the company. An image (below) was also provided, with the suggestion that more information will be shared at E3 next month.



    The original story follows below

    Today on Twitter and Facebook, Electronic Arts teased a new project called "Grass Effect."



    Based on an image posted to the social channels, this project will be a mash-up of the company's Mass Effect and Plants vs. Zombies franchises.

    On Facebook, the image is captioned: "Plants vs. … Reapers?" with a hashtag suggesting the game will be discussed in greater detail at next month's Electronic Entertainment Expo.

    EA's E3 2013 briefing takes place Monday, June 10, at 1 p.m. PDT. The company plans to use the event to show off its suite of next-generation games like Battlefield 4, Need for Speed: Rivals, and EA Sports titles.

    EA will also give a "first look" at its plans for new Star Wars games during the presentation. The company previously suggested that it may be working on an all-new Star Wars Battlefront game.

  44. #344
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    By Chris Morris | Plugged In – Fri, May 31, 2013


    Infamous video game landfill faces excavation



    One of gaming’s greatest mysteries might soon be uncovered.

    You’ve likely heard the tale before: Millions of unsold copies of the disastrous ET: The Extraterrestrial game for the Atari 2600 lie buried in a New Mexico landfill. Despite a slew of believers and evidence supporting the story, doubters remain. But in the next few months, we'll have the answer once and for all.

    The Alamogordo City Commission has approved a deal that will allow for the excavation of the landfill to see what, exactly, is buried there. The big dig will be filmed by Fuel Industries, a Canadian film production company with plans to create a documentary about the gaming legend.
    Fuel has access to the landfill for the next six months, which would put it there on the 30th anniversary of the dump. Alamogordo, as you might suspect, is hoping to raise awareness of the town -- and perhaps attract a few tourists to the area.
    "I hope more people find out about Alamogordo through this opportunity that we have to unearth the Atari games in the landfill," said Mayor Susie Galea.

    The whole project is hinging on the memory of one individual -- Joe Lewandowski -- who ran a garbage company at the time and says he knows exactly where the games are buried.
    The dig could be a Geraldo-like failure, of course, but even if Lewandowski does know where the games are buried, they're not likely to be in any playable form. Atari reportedly crushed them before disposing of them.
    With good reason, too. E.T. is a game that almost single-handedly killed the home video game console business in the 1980s. Atari rushed the development process and bypassed QA to get the game on shelves, resulting in a confusing, buggy title that lacked any viable entertainment qualities.

    Hackers, incidentally, have since issued a 'fix' for the game, but that's not likely to alter its legacy.

  45. #345
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    By Eddie Makuch June 3, 2013 8:30AM PDT


    Pachter: Xbox One $400, PS4 $350
    Analyst Michael Pachter estimates prices for upcoming consoles from Microsoft and Sony, says Nintendo must have strong E3 showing.


    Wedbush Securities analyst Michael Pachter has weighed in on what he believes the Xbox One and PlayStation 4 will sell for when they both launch later this year.

    In a note to investors obtained by Games Industry International, Pachter said he believes the Xbox One will retail for $400, while the PlayStation 4 will debut at $350.

    Pachter's pricing estimations are based on bill of materials figures of $275 for the PS4 and $325 for the Xbox One.

    Though Pachter believes the Xbox One will be the more expensive console at launch, he also predicts that Microsoft may offer a subsidized model, available at a lower price when consumers agree to a subscription plan.

    "We believe the ability to watch live TV from a cable, telco, or satellite set-top box through Xbox One could entice an MSO to drive subscriptions through a subsidised box in exchange for a multi-year contract," Pachter said. "The 'always connected' requirement for the Xbox One likely means that a broadband connection will be required, suggesting to us that ISPs may have an incentive to offer a subsidy as well."

    GameStop chief financial officer Rob Lloyd said last month during a post-earnings financial call that the Xbox One and PlayStation 4 are likely to be less expensive at launch than their predecessors.

    The Xbox 360 launched in 2005 for $300/$400, while the PlayStation 3 debuted in 2006 for $500/$600.

    Regarding Nintendo and the struggling Wii U, Pachter said the company must use its scaled down 2013 Electronic Entertainment Expo showing to prove to consumers that compelling games are coming for the system.

    "Nintendo risks losing additional share to its console competitors if the quality and volume of content available for Wii U does not pick up markedly in the near-term," he said.

    "In addition, if the Wii U's popularity does not improve by the end of the year, many third-party publishers may pass on producing games for the console. We note that EA recently announced that it had no Wii U games in development, and it remains a possibility that the publisher will abandon the platform entirely," he added. "Should other third parties follow EA's lead, the Wii U could be relegated to a first-party-only platform."

  46. #346
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    Microsoft's E3 Slate Reportedly Leaked




    Microsoft could be looking to make a whole bunch of potentially huge announcements at E3 2013 next week if a leaked screengrab of the platform-holder's schedule for the show turns out to be kosher. Spotted by a forumite on NeoGAF, the image is of unknown origin, so could well be fake. But given that some of the listed games are real and have been formerly announced, it could equally be the real deal. In the image, you'll see Forza Motorsport 5 and Quantum Break, which have previously been announced for Xbox One. There's also Halo: Spartan Assault, which we happen to know is an actual thing. Come back tomorrow for answers on that one. Banjo-Kazooie, Halo 5, Dead Rising 3 and Fable IV also feature in the image, indicating that if the picture is real, Microsoft could be gearing up for a barnstorming E3 presser. Here's the list of games according to the NeoGAF post:
    • Halo 5
    • Killer Instinct
    • Banjo-Kazooie: Grunty Land
    • Forza Motorsport 5
    • Quantum Break
    • Halo: Spartan Assault
    • Ryse
    • Fable IV
    • Crackdown 3
    • Fortnite
    • Dead Rising 3
    • Call of Duty: Ghosts
    • Battlefield 4
    • The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
    • Dying Light
    • Prey 2
    • Homefront 2
    • Beyond Good & Evil 2
    • Mirror's Edge 2
    • Rainbow 6: Patriots
    • Brother in Arms: Furious Four
    • League of Legends

    Of course, as nothing has been confirmed as yet, file this one under 'rumour'. All will be officially revealed at E3 in La La Land next week.

    intresting if true

  47. #347
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    That's a very solid line up and would definitely restore a lot of people's faith in Microsoft if it turns out to be true. Presumably only the first 9 titles listed are exclusive but they all look to be good exclusives rather than Kinect shovelware. Some of the others (Dead Rising 3, Mirrors Edge 2, Battlefield 4) I would expect to have some exclusive content or timed exclusive DLC so that's probably why Microsoft is showcasing them. It would also lead me to believe that we will see very little except games at Microsoft's E3 presser which I think is the right decision after the reveal reaction.

    Edit: So that Halo: Spartan Assault is a Windows 8/Windows Phone 8 game, which means that some of the others may not be console games either. Still encouraging to see the focus on games. I'm particularly interested in the new Banjo game, hopefully it's not another spin off.
    Last edited by Jez; June 4th, 2013 at 9:52 AM.

  48. #348
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    Time to find out if ET being buried in the desert is urban legend or fact.

    http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-22766511

    ET game excavation confirmed by studio

    A Canadian studio has confirmed to the BBC it will search a former landfill site in New Mexico where Atari's much-criticised ET game may be buried.

    Fuel Entertainment has permission from the city of Alamogordo to excavate and is finalising funding for the project.

    The video game was among the first to be licensed from a film franchise and was based on the Spielberg film ET.

    Despite the success of the film the game was very badly received and Atari suffered huge financial losses.

    It was released at Christmas 1982 for the Atari 2600 console but many copies were returned and the game was given terrible reviews.

    Shortly afterwards the entire video games industry crashed, as PCs started to become more widespread.

    In September 1983 the firm is said to have dumped millions of cartridges at the landfill site and buried them under concrete.

    Fuel Entertainment, which has offices in Canada and LA, has six months to carry out its search, to coincide with the 30th anniversary. "ET was one of the first videogames based on a licensed property, and one of the earliest and most poignant examples of mass over-hyping in digital entertainment," Mike Burns, CEO of Fuel Entertainment, told the BBC.

    "With the city of Alamogordo's approval to explore the dump site, we're currently looking forward to moving further into the planning and preparation process."

    Atari has never confirmed whether it did dump the games there and journalists were kept away when several trucks arrived from the firm's El Paso plant in Texas.

    Local resident Joe Lewandowski, who worked at the site at the time, told the Almogordo Daily News that he saw "games and other Atari related brick-a-brac" bulldozed and buried in concrete.

    However Mr Burns has admitted that Fuel Entertainment's search may prove fruitless.

    "We don't know exactly what we'll find, but it's bound to be interesting," he said.

  49. #349
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    By Eddie Makuch June 4, 2013 11:45AM PDT



    Microsoft trying to get Hollywood execs on board with Xbox One - Report
    CEO Steve Ballmer reportedly attempting to curry favor with executives for exclusive content for next-generation gaming console.


    Hollywood news site Deadline reports today that Microsoft has held meetings with Hollywood and television executives in an attempt to drum up excitement over the Xbox One.

    The site claims Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer and Entertainment president Nancy Tellem have met with CBS CEO Leslie Moonves, WME co-CEOs Ari Emanuel and Patrick Whitesell, and other "bigwigs" in the TV business about the Xbox One.

    Ballmer reportedly discussed "what we could do" with Xbox One as it relates to sports, music, reality, and scripted programming, going on to pledge that it could offer "more sophisticated technology."

    He also supposedly told the executives that Microsoft "doesn't want to be a cable channel."

    Microsoft hired Tellem in September, bringing her on to develop "interactive and linear content for Xbox and other devices" at a new production studio in Los Angeles.

    During the Xbox One announcement last month, Microsoft highlighted a number of entertainment options for the platform. Users will be able to stream live television through the device, and thanks to a partnership with the NFL, viewers can track player statistics onscreen while watching a game.

    In addition, Microsoft announced a partnership with ESPN and a live-action Halo television series. E.T. director Steven Spielberg is involved with the production, though his role has not been detailed.

  50. #350
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    By Eddie Makuch June 4, 2013 8:09AM PDT



    Company of Heroes 2 open beta going live today
    Pre-release trial for upcoming RTS runs through June 18, allows gamers to carry over progression and unlocks to full game.


    A Company of Heroes 2 open beta will launch later today, developer Relic Entertainment has announced. The beta will run through June 18, a week before the game releases in full.

    The Company of Heroes 2 beta features the game's multiplayer mode, allowing players to try out competitive and cooperative gameplay on six of the game's maps. It also lets gamers test out the first 45 levels of the title's progression and bulletin system.

    Gamers who play the Company of Heroes 2 open beta will retain all progression and unlocks, provided they purchase the full game within the first 60 days after launch and play on the same Steam account.

    "We have been working hard since the closed beta balancing and improving all areas of the game as well as adding new matchmaking servers," producer Greg Wilson said in a statement. "COH2 has had one of the most successful beta programs we've ever run at Relic and the support of the fans has been a critical factor in making the game more balanced and stable for launch."

    Company of Heroes 2 will launch exclusively for PC on June 25 published by Sega, which acquired the franchise and Relic Entertainment for $26.6 million during THQ's bankruptcy auction in January.

  51. #351
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    By Martin Gaston June 4, 2013 5:29PM PDT



    PES 2014 skipping Xbox One and PlayStation 4
    This year's installment of Konami's soccer simulation will be released on Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PC, and PSP.


    This year's installment of Konami's soccer simulation PES won't be seeing a release on Xbox One and PlayStation 4, the publisher has confirmed.


    Pro Evolution Soccer 2014 won't be seeing a release on Vita or 3DS, either. The game will be available later this year for Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PC, and PSP.

    This year Konami says it will be making PES using Kojima Productions' Fox engine, the same technology behind Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain.

    Konami says PES 2014 will feature six main tenets, revolving primarily around what Konami calls its TrueBall technology. Konami says TrueBall features advanced physics that allow the player to trap or knock on a pass using the analogue stick.

    PES 2014 will also feature Konami's Motion Animation Stability System, which claims to simulate the "bodily contact" between multiple players. There's also Heart, which allows teammates to rally together to boost the morale of flagging individuals. "One moment of individual brilliance can produce a galvanising effect on team mates," says Konami.

    "The cauldron effect of a vibrant stadium will showcase the mood of the fans, with all-new sound effects combining with stunning AI systems to create a palpable match day atmosphere", Konami aded.

    PES European community manager Adam Bhatti took to Twitter following the game's announcement to explain Konami's decision not to bring PES 2014 to next-gen platforms. “Not in the business for highres nextgen ports,” he wrote. “We can't and shouldn't do that. Bad habit etc.”

    “So the fact we're not on PS4/Xbone with PES 2014 is simple. We can't and shouldn't be just using higher quality textures etc." Bhatti said that a next-gen version of a title "should be new."

    “In the past people accused us of being lazy," added Bhatti. "We're adamant of not making the same mistakes, and making sure we create amazing football games.

    “It's hardly amazing making the nextgen version prettier. We shouldn't have that mentality, and you shouldn't expect that. Aim higher."

    “I'm a gamer like u, can't wait for nextgen, so I feel your pain. But once u see #PES2014 in action, that pain will disappear. It's stunning,” concluded Bhatti.

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    by Andrew Goldfarb JUNE 4, 2013



    Ubisoft Teases New Rocksmith Announcement at E3
    “Exciting Rocksmith news” is on the way.


    Ubisoft is teasing a Rocksmith-related announcement at E3. According to Ubisoft, “exciting Rocksmith news” is coming at the show, though whether that means a sequel, new DLC or something else entirely hasn’t been revealed.

    Ubisoft also announced that 1.4 million copies of Rocksmith have been sold worldwide since its launch in 2011, with 3 million songs downloaded and more than 112 billion notes played. In addition, a study from the Research Strategy Group claims Rocksmith is “the fastest way to learn how to play the guitar” based on results from “hundreds of participants across greater New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Dallas.”

    “We’re thrilled with the results,” said Ubisoft senior VP of sales and marketing Tony Key. “These studies confirm our view that Rocksmith is a huge success at teaching players real guitar skills that are highly effective, enjoyable, and will last them a lifetime.”

    Expect news about Rocksmith to come at Ubisoft’s E3 2013 press conference on Monday, June 10th at 3:00 p.m. Pacific.
    This one is kinda just for me.

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    by Andrew Goldfarb JUNE 6, 2013


    Microsoft Details Xbox One Used Games, Always Online
    24-hour offline limit confirmed, games can be transferred to other players once.


    Always Online
    As explained by Microsoft, “while a persistent connection is not required, Xbox One is designed to verify if system, application or game updates are needed and to see if you have acquired new games, or resold, traded in, or given your game to a friend. Games that are designed to take advantage of the cloud may require a connection.”

    “With Xbox One you can game offline for up to 24 hours on your primary console, or one hour if you are logged on to a separate console accessing your library. Offline gaming is not possible after these prescribed times until you re-establish a connection, but you can still watch live TV and enjoy Blu-ray and DVD movies."

    "In our role as a game publisher, Microsoft Studios will enable you to give your games to friends or trade in your Xbox One games at participating retailers. Third party publishers may opt in or out of supporting game resale and may set up business terms or transfer fees with retailers. Microsoft does not receive any compensation as part of this. In addition, third party publishers can enable you to give games to friends."

    Microsoft added "because every Xbox One owner has a broadband connection, developers can create massive, persistent worlds that evolve even when you’re not playing."

    Used Games and Giving Games to Friends
    “We designed Xbox One so game publishers can enable you to trade in your games at participating retailers. Microsoft does not charge a platform fee to retailers, publishers, or consumers for enabling transfer of these games.”

    Microsoft says "your friends and family, your guests and acquaintances get unlimited access to all of your games. Anyone can play your games on your console--regardless of whether you are logged in or their relationship to you." The company added that “Xbox One is designed so game publishers can enable you to give your disc-based games to your friends. There are no fees charged as part of these transfers. There are two requirements: you can only give them to people who have been on your friends list for at least 30 days and each game can only be given once.”

    It's worth noting that Microsoft allows you to gift games to friends but they can't borrow them. Microsoft added that "loaning or renting games won’t be available at launch, but we are exploring the possibilities with our partners."

    Xbox One will also allow you to give up to 10 family members access to "log in and play from your shared games library on any Xbox One." Similar to Xbox 360, "a family member can play your copy of Forza Motorsport at a friend’s house. Only now, they will see not just Forza, but all of your shared games. You can always play your games, and any one of your family members can be playing from your shared library at a given time."

    Kinect Requirements
    According to Xbox's official site, "at Microsoft, we prioritize your privacy. We understand that your personal data and privacy are important. Xbox One and Kinect will provide tools to put you in control of your data."

    Microsoft stresses that "you are in control of what Kinect can see and hear. By design, you will determine how responsive and personalized your Xbox One is to you and your family during setup. The system will navigate you through key privacy options, like automatic or manual sign in, privacy settings, and clear notifications about how data is used. When Xbox One is on and you’re simply having a conversation in your living room, your conversation is not being recorded or uploaded."

    Players will also control whether Kinect is on, off or paused. "If you don’t want the Kinect sensor on while playing games or enjoying your entertainment, you can pause Kinect. To turn off your Xbox One, just say 'Xbox Off.' When the system is off, it’s only listening for the single voice command -- 'Xbox On,' and you can even turn that feature off too. Some apps and games may require Kinect functionality to operate, so you’ll need to turn it back on for these experiences."

    Your personal data will never be available to anyone outside of your console, Microsoft stressed. "You can play games or enjoy applications that use data, such as videos, photos, facial expressions, heart rate and more, but this data will not leave your Xbox One without your explicit permission."

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    by Colin Moriarty JUNE 6, 2013


    Sony to Indie Devs: ‘No Hurdles, Just Games’
    Apparently, PlayStation <3 Devs.


    Sony’s love affair with independent developers has, in recent years, made the PlayStation Network the newest destination for great games made by smaller teams that don’t have the means, the funding, or the tools that many triple-A developers have.

    One of the great champions of Sony in the last year is Brian Provinciano, the lone developer of Retro City Rampage. He once referred to Microsoft’s ”intimidating corporate vibe” and talked to us extensively about why he prefers developing for PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Vita.

    Well, Mr. Provinciano recently Tweeted an image of a shirt Sony is handing out to indie devs like him that appear to double-down on Sony’s philosophy while taking a bit of a stab at the company’s primary competition. Check it out.



    Even Adam Boyes, a senior member of PlayStation’s publisher and developer relations outfit, is getting in on the act.

    What do you think of Sony’s aggressive outreach to independent developers? Is it working? Is it bringing games you’re interested in playing to PS3 and PS Vita?

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    by Scott Lowe and Justin Davis JUNE 7, 2013



    E3 2013: Mad Catz Project M.O.J.O. Android Games Console Revealed
    New system offers unhindered access to Google Play and the Amazon Appstore.


    With devices like Ouya drumming up interest in open-source gaming platforms, Mad Catz is jumping into the fray with a system of its own — Project M.O.J.O. Like its Kickstarter-backed peers, Project M.O.J.O. is based on Android, but instead of requiring games to be custom-tailored to its hardware, it works with existing digital storefronts like Amazon's Appstore and Google Play. Unbound by a proprietary platform, Project M.O.J.O. enables users to access a library of thousands of titles, including those already purchased for their Android tablet or smartphone.



    The system leverages Mad Catz's GameSmart platform, which was introduced back in January at CES. GameSmart is a range of cross-platform Bluetooth accessories designed for tablets, smartphones, PCs, and smart TVs. Project M.O.J.O. is expected to ship with the company's C.T.R.L.R. Bluetooth controller, which offers a full suite of dual-analog thumbstick, trigger, d-pad controls for gamepad-enabled Android titles, like Dead Trigger, ShadowGun, and more. For games designed for touch controls, consumers will also be able to use Mad Catz's GameSmart mice.

    While the company maintains that Project M.O.J.O. is merely in its prototyping stages, the final hardware is expected to ship with 16GB of internal storage with expandable microSD storage, Bluetooth Smart 4.0 (when the next version of Android ships), two USB ports for wired gamepads and other accessories, HDMI, Wi-Fi, and a headphone port.

    For processing, Mad Catz hasn't committed to any specific silicon yet, but it's currently investigating Nvidia's Tegra 4 processor, which was also unveiled at CES earlier this year. If the company lands on Nvidia's new mobile chip, however, it could prove to be a competitive edge and an alluring prospect to consumers. Not only would it be a generation ahead of the Ouya, it'd also come equipped with Nvidia's Shield technology, which allows players to stream full HD games from their PC over a local Wi-Fi network.

    Mad Catz is clearly trying to best the competition on power and versatility, but what about cost? The company won't say, but given the kind of performance its shooting for, a $99 price point would seem tough to achieve.

    Hands On

    We only had a few minutes to get our mitts on the M.O.J.O. itself, but even in that brief time the small console managed to impress. It's extremely small and light - it's an even smaller form factor than the Ouya.

    The packed-in controller is bigger and heavier than the console, in fact. The M.O.J.O.'s controller feels great, as expected, given that it is a modified version of Mad Catz' $99 MLG-licensed C.T.R.L.R. controller. The analog sticks and triggers feel just a hair less responsive than the near-perfect stock Xbox 360 controller, but some elements, like the D-Pad, actually improve on Microsoft's design.

    The 16 GB of on-board storage is a respectable amount for Android gaming today, but with many high-end games climbing into 1GB (or higher) territory, the microSD slot tucked into back of the console is very welcome.

    The M.O.J.O. booting into stock Android 4.1 and running stock Android games is the system's greatest asset. If you already own 100+ Android games, they'll all work with the M.O.J.O. right out of the box, as will all your Bluetooth or USB controllers, keyboards, and mice (assuming they already play nice with Android, of course). But this can also create a few awkward moments. We used a controller to boot into Dead Trigger, but then had to use a mouse to navigate through the game's traditionally touch-powered menus, before switching back to the controller to blast zombies once the level began.

    Although not available now, the finished controller will include a "mouse mode" to help alleviate this awkwardness. Mouse mode lets you use the controller's analog stick to move a mouse cursor around the screen, letting you control all of the game or app's functions with the controller alone. Mad Catz also promised a "solution" for multi-touch heavy games, but hasn't yet provided any specifics.

    IGN will have more on the Mad Catz Project M.O.J.O. in the coming months, including, crucially, the hardware's final specs and price.

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    By Eddie Makuch June 7, 2013 2:02PM PDT


    Publishers undecided on blocking Xbox One preowned sales
    [UPDATE] Bethesda, Sega, Capcom, Take-Two, and Ubisoft won't yet clarify if they will allow secondhand games or charge activate fees for next-gen software; EA and Activision only companies not to respond.


    Microsoft announced yesterday that decisions about allowing used Xbox One games would be left up to publishers. Though the power is in their hands, the companies behind Call of Duty and Grand Theft Auto, among others, aren't yet ready to discuss what plans they have for the secondhand market.


    GameSpot contacted major publishers including Activision Blizzard, Electronic Arts, Capcom, Bethesda, Warner Bros., Take-Two, Ubisoft, and Konami about their stance on Xbox One used games and did not receive a definitive stance from any company.

    Bethesda said, "We haven't had time to fully understand and evaluate their policy." Sega chimed in with, "We are currently discussing within Sega policies relating to the new generation of consoles. As soon as these have been agreed upon with all concerned partners we will make the information public."

    A Capcom representative said, "At present Capcom has not announced any titles for Xbox One so any decision regarding allowing trade-ins or loaning games has not been determined."

    A representative for Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment said it is unlikely that the company has an official statement, while Grand Theft Auto parent publisher Take-Two Interactive declined to comment.

    Konami said, "We have nothing official to share at this time."

    Assassin's Creed and Far Cry publisher Ubisoft added in, "We're just now getting more information about Microsoft's plan and starting to examine what it means for our games. We don't have anything new to share right now, but rest assured we'll continue to focus on providing the best experience for our customers no matter how or where they buy our games."

    At press time, Activision Blizzard and Electronic Arts had not responded to requests for comment.

    Though publishers are remaining quiet on plans for secondhand Xbox One games, Wedbush Securities analyst Michael Pachter has been outspoken. In a note to investors today, the analyst said publisher are not likely to block used Xbox One games or require an activation fee.

    "In our view, any publisher that disables used gaming risks a backlash or boycott of its titles by gamers, negatively impacting sales," he said.

    The uncertainty surrounding Xbox One used games has not hurt retailer GameStop. The company's share value climbed more than 7 percent today.

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    By Eddie Makuch June 12, 2013 8:44AM PDT



    EA working on 'gamer first' used-game policy for next-gen
    Labels boss Frank Gibeau says company is currently formulating a customer-friendly strategy for secondhand Xbox One, PS4 games based on information released thus far by Sony and Microsoft.


    Battlefield and FIFA publisher Electronic Arts is currently working on a "gamer first" used-game policy for the Xbox One and PlayStation 4 titles.

    During an Electronic Entertainment Expo analyst call today, EA Labels president Frank Gibeau said the secondhand market has "certainly been a topic of discussion this week."

    He explained that EA is formulating a strategy based on information released by Sony and Microsoft and will return with a definitive statement in the time ahead.

    Gibeau stressed that the company's strategy will be "gamer first" and "customer first," noting that EA wants to continue to have a relationship with used games such that "it is a very positive experience" overall.

    Microsoft's secondhand policy for the Xbox One states that individual publishers will get to choose if used games are allowed, while Sony has confirmed that there will be no "gating restrictions" at all for used disc-based PS4 games.

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    By Eddie Makuch June 11, 2013 7:16PM PDT



    Microsoft: 'The idea of ownership is morphing'
    Xbox executive Phil Spencer says consumers now have more ability to connect with the content they have in new ways.


    The definition of ownership is "morphing," Xbox boss Phil Spencer told GameSpot today in response to a question asking if consumers truly own the 0s and 1s that make up the digital experiences they partake in.

    "I do think the idea of ownership is morphing," Spencer said. "I think it's morphing in a way that gives the consumer more ability with the content that they have."

    One example Spencer pointed out was the ability for up to 10 family members to log in and play Xbox One games wherever they are.

    "The definitions of some of these components do change as the technology enables new functionality," he added.

    The Xbox One launches in November for $499, a full $100 above competitor Sony's PlayStation 4, which will launch later this year for $399.

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    By Eddie Makuch June 11, 2013 5:52PM PDT



    Microsoft: Xbox One will be leading product people love and embrace
    Xbox boss Don Mattrick believes concerns over connectivity are overblown, recommends Xbox 360 for those without an Internet connection.


    Microsoft's controversial announcement that the Xbox One will require an Internet connection has led to consumer backlash, but the company isn't concerned this will keep the platform from becoming an industry leader.

    "Xbox has been created for gamers, by gamers," Mattrick told GTTV. "I find it kind of ironic when people take a step back and think, 'This is a company that hasn't thought about, at its core, what it means to have great games experiences.' So, we're going to deliver that. And I think in the long run, we'll build a global leading product that people are going to love and embrace."

    Asked if Microsoft anticipated pushback concerning the Xbox One's connectivity and used-game policies, Mattrick said "absolutely," due in part to the vocal nature of gamers.

    "It's a super passionate community of people. They're loving what we do," Mattrick said. "It's very important to them and they're opinionated. And they're smart. So they look at all those things and say, 'Hey, is this going to impact me in a negative way?' And until you use it, it's really hard to understand what all the advantages are."

    For those who don't have an Internet connection--Mattrick brought up an example of a person living on a submarine--he pointed out that the Xbox 360 is not going away anytime soon.

    "Fortunately we have a product for people who aren't able to get some form of connectivity; it's called Xbox 360," Mattrick said. "If you have zero access to the Internet, that is an offline device."

    Rival PlayStation 4 will not require Internet check-ins.

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    By Eddie Makuch June 11, 2013 5:10PM PDT



    Sony clarifies stance on PlayStation 4 'restrictions'
    PlayStation maker confirms Online Pass program will not be continued on PS4 and that no "gating restrictions" will be in place for software.


    Sony has clarified its stance on PlayStation 4 game "restrictions," after executive Jack Tretton said earlier today on Spike TV that decisions about DRM would be left up to third-party publishers.

    In a statement sent to GameSpot, Sony confirmed its Online Pass program will not be extended to first-party PS4 titles and that no "gating restrictions" will be in place for disc-based games on the system.

    "The Online Pass program for PlayStation first-party games will not continue on PlayStation 4. Similar to PS3, we will not dictate the online used game strategy (the ability to play used games online) of its publishing partners," reads a line from the statement.

    "As announced last night, PS4 will not have any gating restrictions for used disc-based games," the statement goes on. "When a gamer buys a PS4 disc they have right to use that copy of the game, so they can trade-in the game at retail, sell it to another person, lend it to a friend, or keep it forever."

    This plan differs from that of Microsoft, which has said that decisions about whether or not secondhand Xbox One games can be resold will be left up to publishers. In addition, secondhand Xbox One sales will be available only at unspecified "participating retailers."

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    That article begs some questions. For the PS4, it basically sounds exactly like this gen, except that Sony is doing away with their own online passes. 3rd party publishers can use them if they wish to provide access to multiplayer, but they cannot restrict or control used game sales.

    Since publishers seem to be cool with this on the PS4, I can't imagine that they'll restrict it on the Xbox One.

    I'm confused by the last sentence though... when it says "secondhand Xbox One sales will be available only at unspecified "participating retailers,"" does that mean that you won't be able to trade in or buy a used console without restrictions either?

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    I think third party publishers will largely take their lead from the console manufacturer. Since Microsoft has set the 'norm' of used games being blocked I imagine the majority of publishers will do the same since the console was designed with these restrictions for the publishers benefit anyway. This, I imagine, is why no publisher has announced their XB1 policies yet because they're avoiding revealing the bad news.

    I think by "secondhand Xbox One sales" they're taking about game sales in this case rather than console sales which is only telling us what they've already revealed. You can trade in XB1 games but only to specific partners so you can't sell games privately. I doubt they've given much thought toward people who want to trade in their consoles.
    Last edited by Jez; June 13th, 2013 at 10:21 AM. Reason: typo

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    The key to getting it is the difference between what a disc is now. On PS4 it seems that a game disc still means what it does today, it contains the game, you have to have it in to play. On Xbox One, the disc doesn't matter anymore. It's just a piece of plastic you use to install the game to your hard drive instead of downloading it. You don't need it in the drive to play the game - the game is instead checking that your Xbox account has a licence to play it. I wonder precisely how they achieve that without having to type a code in, or if all the discs have a unique ID.

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    Quote Originally Posted by Don Mattrick View Post
    For those who don't have an Internet connection--Mattrick brought up an example of a person living on a submarine--he pointed out that the Xbox 360 is not going away anytime soon.
    What a complete douchebag.

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    By Eddie Makuch June 17, 2013 8:46AM PDT


    Microsoft defends Xbox One $500 price point--"We're over-delivering value"
    Xbox boss Don Mattrick says when compared to other modern products, $500 is not a "ridiculous" price point.


    Microsoft's Xbox boss Don Mattrick has spoken out to defend the Xbox One's $500 price point, saying the company is in fact over-delivering value with the next-generation system.

    "It's a lower number than some of the analysts had forecasted," Mattrick said on Bloomberg TV. "We're over-delivering value against other choices I think consumers can get. Any modern product these days you look at it [and] $499 isn't a ridiculous price point. We're delivering thousands of dollars of value to people, so I think they're going to love it when they use it."

    Competitor Sony will offer its PlayStation 4 at $400 this holiday season, but Mattrick believes consumers will choose Xbox One for its suite of exclusive services and applications like an improved Xbox Live, as well as Skype, Twitch TV, SmartGlass, and Kinect.

    "We're really making the living room your center of fun for your family," Mattrick said.

    Also in the interview, Mattrick refers to the new Xbox One Halo title as Halo 5. This game was announced during Microsoft's E3 briefing last week only as "Halo Xbox One."

    Every Xbox One will include a Kinect 2.0 sensor, while PS4 gamers will need to pay $60 to purchase a PlayStation Eye camera.

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    By Eddie Makuch June 17, 2013 7:02AM PDT



    Just Cause dev: Most games traded in because they're too short
    Avalanche boss Christofer Sundberg claims most games don't offer enough replayability; says Just Cause 2 still has "hundreds of thousands" of daily players.


    Just Cause developer Avalanche Studios founder Christofer Sundberg believes most games are too short and that is why they are traded in. Speaking with Edge, Sundberg said games that are longer--or more replayable--are less likely to sold back to retailers.

    "I'm sure it's been an issue but that's because games have been too short," Sundberg said about why used games have been a hot topic of late. "I mean, when you can play a game through from 8 to 10 hours, I would return the game too, because there's no reason for players to play it again."

    Sundberg said Just Cause 2, released in March 2012, still has "hundreds of thousands" of daily players, demonstrating the strength of a highly replayable game.

    "If you're offering little variation, then there's no motivation for the player to keep that game--unless they want to have a nice bookshelf. That's why we answered that with Just Cause. I go into game stores each week and I always go to the used game boxes--I usually don't find that many [copies of Just Cause]."

    Mario and Zelda company Nintendo shared a similar opinion. Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aime said developers concerned over used game sales should make more compelling and replayable titles so that gamers do not trade them in.

    The latest project from Avalanche Studios is Mad Max, which will release in 2014 published by Warner Bros. The car combat-focused game does not feature any multiplayer.

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    Quote Originally Posted by Dan Mattrick
    We're over-delivering value against other choices I think consumers can get. Any modern product these days you look at it [and] $499 isn't a ridiculous price point. We're delivering thousands of dollars of value to people, so I think they're going to love it when they use it.
    Put down the shovel. No, don't pick up the fucking pneumatic drill.

    I never used to trade in games unless I hadn't touched them in years, but in the PS3 generation I found myself having just a couple of titles at a time and constantly trading stuff back once I had burned through it, and I was buying used a lot more often too. Sundberg may have a point, though I suspect price is also a big part of what drives used game sales.

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    yea. Its similar to the arguments that Sony came out with when they were launching with the PS3. If Microsoft isn't careful they can expect the same treatment that Sony got last generation.

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    Quote Originally Posted by The Rick View Post
    yea. Its similar to the arguments that Sony came out with when they were launching with the PS3. If Microsoft isn't careful they can expect the same treatment that Sony got last generation.
    Outselling their main rival?

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    "We're really making the living room your center of fun for your family,"
    I hope no one buys into this crap. That statement epitimises why I hate the Xbones launch. As if anyone needs to pay $500 on that box of crap to make their living room fun.

  71. #371
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    Why would I want to be mowing down zombies and teabagging terrorists in front of my family anyway?

  72. #372
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    By Eddie Makuch June 18, 2013 10:28AM PDT




    Navy publication blasts Xbox One
    New report from independent military magazine Navy Times takes issue with connectivity and region-lock policies.


    Independent military magazine Navy Times has published a new report blasting the Xbox One and its various policies that the publication describes as problematic for those on active duty.



    The Xbox One will require users to connect to the Internet once every 24 hours, something Navy Lt. Scott Metcalf believes will be a "showstopper" for those serving downrange, in the field, or at sea.

    A past report claimed Microsoft was working on a solution for those in Internet-free scenarios, though the company now says no such plan is in place.

    In addition, the Xbox One will be supported in only 21 countries. Those stationed in major military regions like Germany, Italy, or Great Britain will not have a problem. However, service members in Japan, Kuwait, Afghanistan, or other areas are in a bind.

    On top of this, since Xbox One games are region-locked, service members who import games won't be able to play them on their local machines. And as Navy Times points out, those who buy games locally will be out of luck, as Xbox Live accounts are tied to regions.

    The publication also calls out potential "serious" security concerns for the Xbox One, involving the system's Kinect camera and/or microphone recording conversations not meant to be heard outside of the military. Microsoft has said that the Xbox One does not record idle living room chatter.

    "Microsoft has single-handedly alienated the entire military," naval aviator Jay Johnson wrote in a Gamasutra piece. "And not just the U.S. military--the militaries of the entire world."

    Johnson added that the Xbox One's Internet requirement is "the single greatest sin Microsoft has committed against all service members."

    Xbox executive Don Mattrick last week offered an alternative for those without an Internet connection, such as military members and students.

    "Fortunately, we have a product for people who aren't able to get some form of connectivity; it's called Xbox 360," Mattrick said. "If you have zero access to the Internet, that is an offline device."

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    By Martin Gaston June 18, 2013 4:21AM PDT



    Sony prices first-party PlayStation 4 titles at $59.99
    Sony's PlayStation 4 games will be sold for the same price as current-generation titles.


    Sony has confirmed that the pricing for its first-party PlayStation 4 titles will be $59.99 in North America, the same price point as PlayStation 3-era titles.


    Speaking to Shacknews, a Sony representative said, "We have announced the pricing for our first-party lineup of PS4 launch and launch window games. All four titles, Killzone: Shadow Fall, DriveClub, Knack, and inFamous: Second Son are all $59.99." Sony Computer Entertainment America CEO Jack Tretton previously said in February that PS4 titles would range from 99 cents to $60.

    Microsoft recently confirmed that first-party Xbox One titles would also be sold for $59.99.

    Third-party publishers--such as Electronic Arts, Ubisoft, and Activision--have yet to formally price their PlayStation 4 and Xbox One titles.

    During its E3 2013 press conference last week, Sony confirmed that the PlayStation 4 would launch later in 2013 for $399/€399/£349. The Xbox One, meanwhile, will launch in November for $499/€499/£425.

  74. #374
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    http://www.bloomberg.com/video/sony-...Sxx5JAVtQ.html



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    June 18, 2013 6:00AM PDT
    By Eddie Makuch Facebook174


    Sony on why it won't hinder PS4 used games--flexibility creates value
    PlayStation boss Jack Tretton says ability to freely resell games creates value in the initial purchase; PS4 won't require online check-in because many countries don't have stable broadband access.


    The PlayStation 4 is a consumer-focused machine, and that's why it will not limit used games or require users to connect to the Internet once a day, according to executive Jack Tretton.


    "We're most concerned about the consumer. And we really appeal to consumers on a worldwide basis," Tretton told Bloomberg TV. "And I think in the United States, we realize there's a high degree of broadband adoption, but we're in a lot of countries where people don't have the ability to connect on a daily basis and we want to appeal to consumers worldwide."

    Speaking about used games, Tretton said the ability to freely share titles with friends or resell them to retailers creates value for the initial purchase. If this flexibility were to be taken away, consumers would be less likely to buy games, he argued.

    "The other thing as it relates to the ownership of the game, if people pay a lot of money for that, they equate the value with the flexibility they have in that," Tretton said. "To do with it as they choose; to give it to their friends, sell it to their friends, trade it in to another retailer; that creates value in the initial purchase that they make."

    Competitor Microsoft has adopted a policy for the Xbox One that requires users to "check in" with a broadband connection once a day. In addition, though the system will allow used games, decisions will ultimately be left up to individual publishers.

    Also in the interview, Tretton spoke about the PS4's design. He called it "beautiful" and "very, very sexy."

    "People looked at it, and their jaw just dropped," he said.

    Regarding the PS4's $400 price point, a full $100 below Microsoft's $500 Xbox One, Tretton said Sony hit the sweet spot with balancing technological power and a consumer-friendly price point.

    "The goal is always to reach the most consumer-friendly price point so you can drive volume as quickly as possible," Tretton said. "But you walk that line between wanting to deliver the ultimate technological experience at a reasonable price and we think we hit a really nice chord at $399 with PlayStation 4."

  75. #375
    dude it's iron man.. man
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    never mind
    Last edited by mr sabu; June 18th, 2013 at 9:34 PM.

  76. #376
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    By Eddie Makuch June 19, 2013 2:02PM PDT


    Microsoft changing Xbox One policies
    Xbox maker does away with all used game restrictions and 24-hour online check-ins; region-locks also no longer in place.


    Microsoft today confirmed that it is changing the controversial Xbox One policies as a result of consumer feedback.

    "As a result of feedback from the Xbox community, we have changed certain policies for Xbox One," Microsoft wrote on its blog, adding that past policies are "no longer accurate."

    Xbox boss Don Mattrick penned an blog post on the matter titled "Your Feedback matters." In the note, he said Microsoft "believes in the benefits of a connected, digital future," and thanked gamers for their assistance in helping Microsoft "reshape the future of Xbox One."

    "You told us how much you loved the flexibility you have today with games delivered on disc. The ability to lend, share, and resell these games at your discretion is of incredible importance to you," Mattrick said. "Also important to you is the freedom to play offline, for any length of time, anywhere in the world."

    "So, today I am announcing the following changes to Xbox One and how you can play, share, lend, and resell your games exactly as you do today on Xbox 360," he continued.

    This means:
    An Internet connection will not be required to play offline Xbox One games. After a one-time system set-up with a new Xbox One, you can play any disc-based game without ever connecting online again. There is no 24-hour connection requirement and you can take your Xbox One anywhere you want and play your games, just like on Xbox 360.

    Trade-in, lend, resell, gift, and rent disc based games just like you do today. There will be no limitations to using and sharing games; it will work just as it does today on Xbox 360.

    In addition to buying a disc from a retailer, you can also download games from Xbox Live on day of release. If you choose to download your games, you will be able to play them offline just like you do today. Xbox One games will be playable on any Xbox One console--there will be no regional restrictions.

    "We appreciate your passion, support and willingness to challenge the assumptions of digital licensing and connectivity," Mattrick said. "While we believe that the majority of people will play games online and access the cloud for both games and entertainment, we will give consumers the choice of both physical and digital content. We have listened and we have heard loud and clear from your feedback that you want the best of both worlds."

    This change is a dramatic reversal of policy for Microsoft, which spent much of last week at E3 discussing with media why its policies were in place to begin with.

    The Xbox One launches in November at $500, a full $100 above the PlayStation 4, which will sell for $400 this holiday. The PS4 features no online requirements or used games restrictions, something Sony pointed out during its E3 briefing last week.

    The Xbox One's controversial policies most recently drew the ire of independent military magazine Navy Times, which laid out numerous reasons why the system would be a bad choice for those on active duty.

  77. #377
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    By Eddie Makuch June 19, 2013 11:46AM PDT



    "Always-online" tweeter Orth giving speech at GDC Next
    Former Microsoft creative director to give talk that explores "toxic online behavior" and why he left the Xbox maker.

    Adam Orth--who resigned from Microsoft following his controversial "always-online" and "deal with it" comments--will give a presentation on "toxic online behavior" at GDC Next, event organizers have announced.

    Orth, a former Microsoft creative director who now runs his own Orthnation consultancy firm, will give a talk titled "Mob Rules: The Destructive Power of Opinion and Online Community."

    During the course of his talk, Orth will provide insight into why he left Microsoft and discuss how he believes the game business can "inspire developers as a community to rebuild the foundation of online and community through positive academic, communal, and mechanical revolution."

    Speaking on Twitter in April, Orth made headlines after saying, "Sorry, I don't get the drama around having an 'always on' console. Every device now is 'always on'. That's the world we live in." He then used the hashtag "#dealwithit."

    Orth continued, saying that people should "definitely get with the times and get the internet" and that "I want every device to be 'always on.'"

    His comments came before Microsoft officially announced the Xbox One and revealed a new policy that requires users connect to the Internet once per day.

    GDC Next takes place November 5-7, 2013 at the Los Angeles Convention Center. Other game companies speaking at the event include thatgamecompany, Disney, and Google.

  78. #378
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    STEPHEN TOTILO Yesterday 5:22pm


    WIN SOME, LOSE SOME
    Xbox One DRM Reversal Cuts Features, Requires One-Time Connection


    You win some, you lose some. In changing its drastic Xbox One DRM policies today, Microsoft will actually be cutting some of the cooler features announced from the console. Everything's got a price, folks.

    "There’s a few things we won’t be able to deliver as a result of this change," Marc Whitten, v.p. of Xbox Live told Kotaku, "One of the things we were very exicted about was 'wherever we go my games are always with me.' Now, of course, your physical games won’t show up that way. The content you bought digitally will. But you’ll have to bring your discs with you to have your games with you. Similarly, the sharing library [is something] we won’t be able to deliver at launch."

    That means that two features are being cut, at least for now, from Microsoft's Xbox One plans. Microsoft's concept of having your full game library travel with you is gone.

    Microsoft's offer to let you share Xbox One games with up to nine other "family" members is gone, too.

    The play-your-games-from-anywhere feature had been tied to the idea that all Xbox One games must be installed to the system's 500GB harddrive in order to run. In theory, if you had registered the game online—a requirement that's also been dropped for disc games for the Xbox One—you'd then be able to play those games from any other console you were logged into. Now, with disc games not needing to be registered, you'd have to bring the disc with you to prove you had the rights to play the game on it.

    Those sacrifices are the cost of the new DRM policy that, Whitten says, will give people an Xbox One experience with disc-based games that matches what they had on the Xbox 360. Games won't have to be registered online, and players won't have to connect to the Internet in a 24-hour period to play offline disc-based games. "The way to think about it is that it works the way it does with the Xbox 360," Whitten said. "You can give them, loan them, trade them, play them. They will work exactly as they do today."

    It's clear that Microsoft was not planning to make these changes. Even though it's June and the console doesn't launch until November, Whitten said that Xbox One consumers will have to download a day-one patch to enable the Xbox One's offline mode. Presumably, without it, the console will still think it's living in the Xbox One era of E3 2013.

    UPDATE: Microsoft clarifies that the planned day-one Xbox One update, which Whitten told me, will "complete some of the software that won’t be there," is actually not a result of today's DRM policy change. Rather, it was always planned and will simply be required for playing off-line, among other things. Not a patch, they say. But, yes, your new Xbox console would have to connect online once in order to do the things Microsoft described today. And then you can keep it offline and play games without re-connecting to the Internet forever.

    Microsoft also announced today a loosening of the Xbox One's regional restrictions. "You could buy a console in any country and use it any country," Whitten said. "You can use any disc in that console."

    How did Microsoft get their initial plans for the Xbox One so wrong? "We believe a lot in this digital future," Whitten said. "We believe it builds an amazing experience—the ability to have a broader sharing platform and my content coming with me, [but] what we heard is people still wanted more choice… they wanted the familiarity of the physical disc."

    Microsoft is obviously doing a big flip-flop here, but is putting a proud face on it. And a grateful one. "The last thing I would say is, 'Thank you for the feedback.'" He wasn't addressing me. He was addressing you. Your voices really were heard.

    NOTE: The original headline for this story "Surprise Xbox One DRM Reversal Requires Day One Patch, Cuts Features" was changed to clarify that the console's day-one update was not a result of today's DRM policy change.

  79. #379
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    By Martin Gaston June 25, 2013 8:44AM PDT


    Kojima looking to remake MGS1 with next-gen Fox engine
    Metal Gear Solid creator currently looking for an external studio to handle the development.


    Hideo Kojima is looking to remake the original Metal Gear Solid using Kojima Productions' next-generation Fox engine, GameReactor reports.


    During a roundtable interview at E3 2013 attended by GameReactor, the MGS visionary said that he's currently seeking an external studio to handle the adaptation.

    The original Metal Gear Solid was released in 1998 for PlayStation, and was ported later to Windows in 2000. The title is considered to be one of gaming's definitive titles. Kojima has entrusted the Metal Gear franchise to external developers in the past. Eternal Darkness and Too Human developer Silicon Knights handled the 2004 GameCube remake Metal Gear Solid: The Twin Snakes.

    Kojima Productions also drafted in Bayonetta developer Platinum Games for spin-off title Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance, which was released earlier in 2013.

    Kojima Productions' Fox Engine was revealed in 2011 and is designed to be a cross-platform engine designed around the next-generation: Xbox One and PlayStation 4.

    The Fox Engine is powering Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain, and is also behind Pro Evolution Soccer 2014.

    Elsewhere in the interview, Kojima said the value of next-generation consoles was about far more than improved visual prowess. "For us it's not about upgraded graphics or anything like that," he said. "We're really looking forward to the fact that we can now use multiple devices to play a game. So whether it's smartphones or tablets, we can play Metal Gear Solid V on that tablet or smartphone and integrate that into what we have on the console. So people can play the game essentially 24 hours and be in the world of MGS anytime they like to."

  80. #380
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    By Dan Chiappini June 25, 2013 1:25AM PDT



    Saints Row IV banned in Australia
    Next instalment in irreverent, open-world game denied classification rating in Australia because of implied sexual violence and drug use.


    Saints Row IV has become the first game to be refused classification in Australia since the introduction of the R18+ adult rating on January 1 this year.


    According to a statement issued today by the Australian Classification Board’s acting director, Donald McDonald, the game was refused the maximum R18+ rating for games due to its implied sexual violence and drug use related to player incentive.

    “In the Board’s opinion, Saints Row IV, includes interactive, visual depictions of implied sexual violence which are not justified by context," the statement said. "In addition, the game includes elements of illicit or proscribed drug use related to incentives or rewards. Such depictions are prohibited by the computer games guidelines.”

    To date, 17 games have successfully been granted the R18+ rating, including Ninja Gaiden 3: Razor's Edge, Mortal Kombat Komplete Edition and Army of Two: The Devil's Cartel. The refused classification status of Saints Row IV now effectively bans it from sale nationally.

    GameSpot contacted the game’s Australian distributor, but a spokesperson was unable to comment on the announcement, or whether the company plans to appeal the decision.

    Saints Row IV was slated for release on the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and PC on August 22 this year.

  81. #381
    dude it's iron man.. man
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    jesus fucking christ............

    the r rating was made for shit like this
    Last edited by mr sabu; June 25th, 2013 at 7:54 PM.

  82. #382
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    By: MIKE FAHEY 6/25/13 5:30pm




    The Xbox One Vs. PS4 Headset War Begins

    Last week, after Microsoft's DRM reversal put it on more equal footing with the PlayStation 4, we took a fresh look at the differences between the two, but we missed one incredibly important feature — headsets. The PlayStation 4 comes with a mono headset. The Xbox One comes with none.

    If I could, there would be some dramatic music here. Maybe something from the old Unsolved Mysteries reenactments. Just imagine it.

    IGN has confirmed with Microsoft that the spiffy Xbox One headset will not be included in the box with the console. Out-of-the-package communications will instead be handled by Kinect, which includes all the parts required to yell at and be yelled at, with none of the intimacy of a headset.

    Meanwhile, the PlayStation 4, priced at $399 — $100 less than the Microsoft console — comes with a mono headset which plugs directly into the Dualshock 4 controller. Its camera, however, will be sold separately.

    It also bears mentioning that the PlayStation 4 features a standard headset jack and the Xbox One's is proprietary, limiting the options available on Microsoft's console, though third-party headsets are already in the works.

    Now I'm being a bit flippant about the whole situation, but that's only because I prefer not to hear other people talking while I am playing — or in general. If anything the inclusion of a headset in the PlayStation 4 box means the blissful silence of the early days of the PlayStation 3 won't be replicated. Remember how quiet Resistance: Fall of Man was? Those were the days. I can only hope one of my cats or children eats the mono headset shortly after unboxing.

    For the more social of you, this could actually be a big deal. Will headset availability factor into your next-gen console purchase?

  83. #383
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    Seriously?! No headset? Now no sharing with my friends (which I'll be honest was a very exciting prospect for me. I don't sell a lot of games, and I don't buy that many used games, certainly few enough that paying full price but getting say Castle Crashers from a bud was a fair trade) no headset? I don't live alone, I'm not shouting at my fucking Kinnect. I don't want their voices coming through my tv either. I only do that on the very odd occasion that I'm playing and someone is watching and getting tired of only hearing half the conversation.

    For fucks sake Microsoft. Fucking twelve year old me better have been right about this generation being the LAST generation of console.

  84. #384
    She was a lot like you Atty's Avatar
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    That MGS news is the type of thing that would make me an early adopter of a next gen system.

  85. #385
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    by: OWEN GOOD Today 12:18pm






    Ouya Provokes Piracy Argument with Retweet Touting Emulation
    Ouya, which launched today even if many donors don't yet have their machines, is an Android-based, open source console. It'll run emulators. So there's some sensitivity to the issue of piracy, which Ouya didn't help by retweeting out a picture of Super Mario Bros. and adding the hashtag #freethegames.

    Yesterday an enthusiast—in a tweet removed just within the past half-hour—listed his reasons for owning the console. "Use current controllers, expand ports, and #retro games." To that he added the image below, which appears to show Super Mario Bros. being played on an Ouya.

    Ouya's official account, around 8 p.m. on Monday, quoted the Tweet, linking this picture with the addition of the #FreetheGames hashtag to the beginning of it.

    In March, the discussion of emulators on Ouya's unofficial forums brought a statement from the console maker as to what would and would not be allowable on the device. Ouya said it would accept emulators on the Ouya store provided they didn't include any games to which the emulator didn't have a legitimate license. People who wanted to submit retro games to the Ouya store also would need a license from the owner, and Ouya noted the store does not accept ROMs, which could be pirated material, only the .apk file format.

    That said, the device has already been shown to run Street Fighter II and Mario 64 on emulation, so even if ROMs or .apks of the games themselves can't be exchanged over the Ouya store, there may be a way still to get them on the open-source console.

    We've pointed out to Ouya that one console maker's tacit encouragement of playing another console maker's games on emulation is somewhat of a provocative statement. We've asked for comment and will update this post with any that Ouya makes.

    Update: An Ouya representative responded to Kotaku, restating the company's policies on emulators, content submissions to the Ouya store, and file formats. Ouya's tweet also has been deleted.

  86. #386
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    By Eddie Makuch June 27, 2013 5:37AM PDT


    Sony explains why PS Plus is required for PS4 online play
    Shuhei Yoshida says due to "large investment of resources" for online play, keeping service free would have been "absurd."


    Sony has explained why a PlayStation Plus subscription will be required to play PlayStation 4 titles online. In the latest issue of Famitsu (translated by Kotaku), Worldwide Studios boss Shuhei Yoshida said that it would have been "absurd" to keep the service free, considering the "large investment of resources" Sony has made for online infrastructure.


    "The main pillar for the PS4 will be online play. We're developing many new ways to play and connect which requires a large investment of resources," Yoshida said.

    "Considering the cost, to try to keep such a service free and consequently lower the quality would be absurd. We decided that if that's the case, then it would be better to receive proper payment and continue to offer a good service."

    Currently, Sony does not charge a penny for online play for the PlayStation 3. PlayStation Plus subscriptions are offered for $50 per year, and current memberships will carry over to the PS4.

    The move puts Sony in line with Microsoft, which currently mandates that Xbox 360 users have an Xbox Live Gold membership ($60/year) to play games online and access features like Netflix.

    Elsewhere in the Famitsu issue, Sony Japan president Hiroshi Kawano said just because the PS4 is the main show moving forward, support for the PS3 is not ending anytime soon.

    "It's been seven years since the release of the PS3, and the console continues to sell at a constant pace, plus we have many upcoming titles," Kawano said. "We have no intention of immediately shifting from the PS3 to the PS4."

    "With the 2014 launch of our cloud service in the US allowing users to play PS3 games on the PS4, some people may switch consoles from the PS3 to the PS4," he added. "But that'll be a gradual process, and to say 'we're releasing a new console, so trade in your old ones for it' would be a maker's ego talking, plain and simple."

    The PS4 launches this holiday for $399/€399/£349.

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    By Eddie Makuch June 28, 2013 11:43AM PDT



    Xbox executive says comparing specs is "meaningless"
    Microsoft product planning boss Albert Penello says consumers truly care about games and experiences above all else.


    Xbox executive Albert Penello believes comparing systems specifications between Xbox One and PlayStation 4 is "in some ways meaningless."


    "The problem is that Sony decided to go out and publish a bunch of numbers, which are in some ways meaningless," Penello told OXM. "Because this isn't like 1990, when it was 16-bit versus 32-bit."

    He continued, "They actually go out and they talk about how proud they are about their off-the-shelf parts. Our guys'll say, we touched every single component in the box and everything there is tweaked for optimum performance."

    Ultimately, Penello said he believes consumers will choose a console for the games it has, not for how it is described--technically--on paper.

    "Here's what you care about," he said. "You bought a system to play great games and have great experiences," Penello said. "I feel like our games and experiences are going to be every bit as good, if not better, technically--on top of all the magic we're going to add with the instant switching, and the power of the cloud."

    Penello said he would rather not even have the conversation about Xbox One vs. PS4 specifications because "it's not going to matter."

    "I heard this exact same argument last generation and it's a pointless argument, because people are debating things which they don't know about. They're not [head silicon engineer] Nick Baker or [corporate vice president of IEB hardware Todd Holmdahl], and I'm not [lead PS4 architect] Mark Cerny, so why are we having this discussion?"...

  88. #388
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    Pretty ridiculous bit of news here.

    Texas kid could face up to 8 years in prison for being sarcastic in online gaming.

    Unfortunately I see this, and similar situations as the eery beginning of a new form of trolling.

    Gone will be the days of shit talking in online gaming or online in general. Because around every corner will be some jackass who sends the cops out on a witch hunt for you because you said something they didn't like.

    Especially with the incentive of ruining your life with charges/prison sentences like that.

    http://dailycaller.com/2013/06/27/te...ed-for-months/

    A Texas teenager who has been in jail since March faces an eight-year prison sentence because of a threatening joke he made while playing an online video game.

    In February, Justin Carter was playing “League of Legends” — an online, multiplayer fantasy game — when another player wrote a comment calling him insane. Carter’s response, which he now deeply regrets, was intended as joke.

    “He replied ‘Oh yeah, I’m real messed up in the head, I’m going to go shoot up a school full of kids and eat their still, beating hearts,’ and the next two lines were lol and jk,” said Jack Carter, Justin’s father, in a statement to a local news channel.

    The statements “lol” and “jk” — meaning “laughing out loud” and “just kidding” — indicate that Justin’s statement was entirely sarcastic, said his father.

    But a Canadian woman who saw the post looked up Carter’s Austin address, determined that it was near an elementary school, and called the police. Carter was arrested one month later, and has been in jail ever since. He recently celebrated his 19th birthday behind bars.

    Authorities charged him with making a terrorist threat. If convicted, he will face eight years in prison.

    “These people are serious. They really want my son to go away to jail for a sarcastic comment that he made,” said the elder Carter.

    Authorities noted that recent school shootings like the one in Newtown, Connecticut have caused them to evaluate all potential threats seriously. Newtown was still fresh in their minds at the time of Carter’s arrest.

    “In light of recent situations, statements such as the one Justin made are taken seriously,” said an Austin police detective in a statement.

    Carter’s father said his son didn’t follow the news at all.

    “Justin was the kind of kid who didn’t read the newspaper,” said Jack Carter. “He didn’t watch television. He wasn’t aware of current events. These kids, they don’t realize what they’re doing. They don’t understand the implications. They don’t understand.”

    Carter’s parents have launched a change.org petition to convince Texas Attorney General Greg Abbot to release their son.

    “Release Justin Carter from jail,” the petition reads. “Too many teenagers are being arrested, jailed and having their lives forever altered because of anti-terrorism laws and investigations that impede their 1st Amendment right to freedom of speech.”

    A hearing to review Carter’s case is scheduled for July 1.
    Last edited by ReDPath; June 30th, 2013 at 3:52 PM.

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    By Martin Gaston July 1, 2013 3:58PM PDT



    Don Mattrick leaving Microsoft for Zynga
    Xbox One executive leaving Microsoft for Farmville creator.




    Update: Don Mattrick has left Microsoft and joined social gaming giant Zynga as its new CEO, the company has confirmed. The former president of Microsoft's Interactive Entertainment Business division and overseer of the upcoming Xbox One will join the Farmville developer on June 8, and will take a seat on the company's board, Zynga confirmed in a press release.

    Zynga founder and former CEO Mark Pincus will remain chairman of the board and chief product officer at the company. "Don is unique in the game business," said Pincus. "He can execute in multiple domains--hardware, software and network, and he's been the person responsible for game franchises like 'Need for Speed,' 'FIFA' and 'The Sims.' He's one of the top executives in the overall entertainment business and he's a great coach who has inspired people to do their best work and build strong, productive teams. He deeply understands the value of a network and the importance of creating lifelong consumer relationships. He turned Xbox into the world's largest console-gaming network, growing its installed base from 10 to 80 million and transformed that business from deep losses to substantial profits. And he has grown the Xbox Live player network from 6 to 50 million active members in 41 countries."

    "I joined Zynga because I believe that [Pincus'] pioneering vision and mission to connect the world through games is just getting started," added Mattrick. "Zynga is a great business that has yet to realize its full potential."

    Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer responded to news of Mattrick's exit via an e-mail to all employees. "This is a great opportunity for Don, and I wish him success. Don’s directs will report to me and will continue to drive the day-to-day business as a team, particularly focused on shipping Xbox One this holiday."

    "Thank you, Don, for setting us on a path to completely redefine the entertainment industry," continued Ballmer. "The strong leadership team at IEB and their teams are well positioned to deliver the next-generation entertainment console, as well as transformative entertainment experiences, long into the future."

    Original Story: Xbox president Don Mattrick is leaving Microsoft and is close to taking the role of CEO at social gaming giant Zynga, All Things Digital reports.

    Sources close to All Things Digital said the official announcement of Mattrick's appointment could be made as early as today, and that the executive has been in discussions with Zynga about the role for some time. The site adds that Mattrick has also been one of the front-runners to step into the currently vacant CEO position at EA.

    As president of Microsoft's Interactive Entertainment Business department, Mattrick recently unveiled the Xbox One to the world at the company's May reveal of its next-generation console, but had to publicly change the console's heavily criticized policies after consumer backlash.

    He joined Microsoft from EA in 2007.

    Zynga, which is responsible for the social gaming title Farmville, has had a shaky time since it made the company public.

    Microsoft was not immediately available for comment.

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    By Martin Gaston July 4, 2013 9:54AM PDT



    Microsoft to host press conference at Gamescom 2013 - Report
    Microsoft reported to be planning a press conference at European trade show, with the company looking to reiterate the core message behind the Xbox One.


    Microsoft will host its own press conference this year at European trade show Gamescom, reports CVG.

    Certain developers have already been notified about the one-hour press conference, says CVG, but that neither the date nor the running order has been finalised.

    Sources have said that the proposed press conference would be for Microsoft to reiterate its core message behind the Xbox One, while also attempting to secure the console's footing in European territories. While the Xbox has traditionally been popular in the UK--with the Xbox 360 recently overtaking the Wii in total sales--it has seen less success than Sony's PlayStation in other European markets.

    If true, 2013 would mark the first time Microsoft has held a full-blown press conference during the European show. Both Sony and EA regularly hold their own press conferences at Gamescom.

    Microsoft had previously announced that it will be returning to Gamescom this year after skipping it in 2012.

    "We're excited to be back at Gamescom this year but we're not announcing any further details on our plans at this time. Please stay tuned for more details!" said a Microsoft spokesperson.

    Gamescom will run from August 21 through August 25 in Cologne, Germany.

    Microsoft will release the Xbox One this November for $499/£429/€499.

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    By Dan Chiappini July 4, 2013 11:15PM PDT


    Xbox One created 'with advertising in mind'
    Xbox Live advertising division staff say the Xbox One was built with ads in mind; advertisers to get limited access to Kinect features.


    The Xbox One and its dashboard user interface were built with advertising in mind, key members of Microsoft’s UK Xbox Live Advertising team have told website StickTwiddlers on a recent visit to the company’s headquarters.

    A two-hour discussion with the senior digital art director/user experience designer and technical account manager for Xbox Live advertising revealed that all advertising created for the platform must work with both a standard Xbox controller and the console’s mandatory Kinect camera system.

    “With the new Xbox One, the technology and Kinect has improved a lot,” said the technical account manager for Xbox Live Advertising, “so that actually, the voice recognition, the way you speak to your Xbox, and the transition between gaming and watching TV is a lot smoother, and hopefully we can transpire that into advertising that we do.

    “Xbox is moving more outside of the bedroom. We’re seeing much, much more people use it in living rooms where there is family, friends, there is lots going on, so there is a context of perceiving the content,” the senior digital art director/use experience designer said. “It’s not like when you’re at work, when you sit in front of a screen and your experience is very personal. But with Xbox, it’s lots of people in front of one big screen. They are playing or watching together, and advertising is being consumed in a totally different way.”

    Microsoft hopes that the inclusion of Kinect with every Xbox One system will allow the company to better serve contextually relevant ads, and that integrating advertising material within content will make it less jarring.

    “On Xbox, the ad is part of the actual experience, it’s not something that is outside. The only difference is that the advertisement we have is quite small and not disruptive, so people are not aware of clicking on the banners because they know this is a part of the whole experience on the dash,” the senior digital art director revealed. “So the users know that this is something that when they click on it, they won’t be hit by something crazy or something dangerous like on the web. Everything that lands there, we create."

    Microsoft's advertising team believes the upcoming Xbox One will allow advertising to evolve in line with the platform's gaming content.

    “It’s going to be an exciting transition, though, because the 360 console wasn't built with advertising in mind, it was more of an afterthought, so we've had to adapt to the technology and how we work to fit them in to the console,” said the Xbox Live advertising technical account manager.

    Users concerned that the Xbox One and its Kinect camera may be collecting personal, identifying, or biometric information from the system should not be concerned, the team said.

    “This sort of works at two levels. There’s the game producers, who have a different API, so a different set of code and system that they use, and they've got a lot more control of the whole thing,” the developer commented, “whereas from the advertising point of view, we have a slightly more limited set, which is designed to protect the user. The company is very keen on protecting the user from any sort of abuse, so we can’t do certain things.”

    Originally likened to a “monitoring device” by Germany's federal data protection commissioner, Microsoft has attempted to allay consumer fears that its new home console will spy on its users. The company recently released official information on how the Kinect camera can be paused, which personal data the system will collect, and how it will be shared with third parties.

  93. #393
    Football manager? Peter Griffin's Avatar
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    uk
    Fuck that.

  94. #394
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    "Because this isn't like 1990, when it was 16-bit versus 32-bit."
    Um... what? In 1990, the Genesis was the only 16-bit console in existence. Nothing was 32-bit.

    Don Mattrick leaving Microsoft for Zynga
    Wish I had a job where abject failure, a completely unconcealed contempt for the public and managing to cause such an outcry the company has to pull a humiliating 180 would land me a gig running another massively profitable company.

    Xbox is moving more outside of the bedroom
    I already watch TV in my bedroom you fucking morons. And you know how I avoid having to get up and change the channel? Using a fucking remote control, not waving my arms around like I'm doing hot yoga, and not barking at an ever-present spybox that's trying to sell me shit 24/7.

  95. #395
    She was a lot like you Atty's Avatar
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    I wonder if it'll change channels when you are having sex? It'd be a nice feature for it to put on porn or cue up some Barry White.


    It can then throw up a TROJAN MAN ad as a reminder.

  96. #396
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    Me: Hey, wife, do you want to turn on the TV?
    Wife: Not--
    Xbox-One: THIS IS THE TV SUDDENLY TURNING ON AT THE RIDICULOUS VOLUME THAT MADE SENSE LAST NIGHT DURING FOURTH OF JULY BUT THAT WILL NOW WAKE YOUR IN-LAWS WHO HAVE WORK TOMORROW BECAUSE THEIR GENERATION ISN'T QUITE FUCKED YET!!! ALSO JUST TO MAKE IT AWKWARD IT IS A FUCKING SEX SCENE IN SOME 80s MOVIE!

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    By Martin Gaston July 9, 2013 10:33AM PDT



    Nintendo wins $1m in damages from illegal flashcart sellers
    Nintendo and 49 other Japanese publishers win $1m in damages from three companies selling DS flash cartridges in Tokyo.


    A judge in a Japanese court case has ruled that three companies distributing illegal R4 flash cartridges for the Nintendo DS must pay Nintendo and dozens of other developers almost $1 million in damages.



    Nintendo Japan announced that the three Tokyo-based resellers of the piracy-enabling R4 cartridges, Seafort Japan, Mediaforce, and Magical Company, are guilty of the Unfair Competition Prevention Act and must now pay ¥95,620,005 (approx $945,873/£635,774) in damages.

    Nintendo and the 49 other plaintiffs make up almost all of Japan's major publishers, including Capcom, Namco Bandai, Konami, Square Enix, and D3.

    The Japanese government ruled in November 2012 that, after years of attempting to block the devices from sale, all R4 devices are illegal in Japan.

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    By Jonathan Toyad July 9, 2013 2:18AM PDT



    Sony sells more than 3.4 million copies of The Last of Us
    Sales figures charted for the first three weeks since the game's release mid-June.


    Sony Computer Entertainment has announced that worldwide sales of its PS3 action title The Last of Us have exceeded 3.4 million units.

    3.4 million copies within three weeks is nothing to scoff at.
    The sales figure was achieved within a span of three weeks since the game's release on June 14. Currently, the game is the fastest-selling new IP in the history of the PS3.

    SCE Worldwide Studios president Shuhei Yoshida said that the figures are a testament to the game's quality. "The teams at Naughty Dog are true visionaries and their storytelling capabilities are second to none, this title is an undisputed demonstration of that."

    The title secured the top spot in the UK gaming charts for the past four weeks. Critics praised The Last of Us for its story, combat and sound design.

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    by Luke Karmali JULY 9, 2013



    GameStop Sells Out of PlayStation 4 Pre-Orders
    Something about an early bird...


    GameStop has closed US pre-orders for the PlayStation 4 after it "sold out" its allocation of launch units.

    The retailer's website explains that the console is "currently sold out", though there's no word on whether this is a permanent state of affairs or if the company is trying to increase its stock before reopening pre-orders.

    A statement provided to GameInformer reads, "Due to high demand for the system, GameStop is not currently taking additional store reservations for the PlayStation 4."

    IGN has reached out to GameStop for clarification about whether we can realistically expect pre-orders to reopen at some stage in the future or not.

    Back in March, GameStop's president expressed his belief that demand for Sony's new console would far outstrip supply in the launch window; this sentiment was later echoed by Sony Computer Entertainment CEO Andrew House amid the company raising its sales projections for the device.

    Judging by this latest development, it seems this could well be the case.

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    By Eddie Makuch July 9, 2013 2:08PM PDT


    Microsoft restructuring to be unveiled Thursday - Report
    Multiple sources say Steve Ballmer will officially announce significant restructuring plan July 11; Julie Larson-Green reportedly in line to lead Xbox business.


    Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer will formally announce the rumored company restructuring plan on Thursday, multiple sources have told The Wall Street Journal's All Things D.

    Various issues are "still up in the air," the site notes, cautioning that specific timing for the announcement is not necessarily set in stone.

    As was previously reported, the rumored organizational shift, in addition to solidifying Microsoft as a devices and services business, aims to simplify the company's management.

    The move, according to the sources, aims to create "functional coherence" at Microsoft, though this is reportedly an internal term and will not be shared publicly.

    As part of the company-wide shift, various executives will reportedly shuffle to new positions. This includes 19-year company veteran Julie Larson-Green, who is supposedly in line to take over management of all devices at Microsoft, including the Xbox division.

    Larson-Green currently heads up Microsoft's Windows team as corporate vice president.

    Don Mattrick recently vacated his position as president of Microsoft Interactive Entertainment Business, joining Farmville studio Zynga last week to become the social game company's CEO.

    Larson-Green's appointment to replace Mattrick matches up with a Bloomberg report from last week, which suggested she would take over the open position.

    One concerned insider told All Things D, "If this is all about an org chart and not how to build great products, it does not matter what org chart Ballmer presents. Consumers buy products, not a management structure."

    The Xbox One launches in November for $500.

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