XBOX CHART: Call of Juarez: The Cartel is No.1

August 1st, 2011, 18:52 Posted By: wraggster

Echoing its performance on the PlayStation 3 chart, Call of Juarez: The Cartel holds the No.1 spot on the official UK Xbox 360 sales chart.

Dirt 3 and LA Noire are also non-movers, at No.2 and No.3 respectively, while FIFA 11 and UFC Personal Trainer round off the top five.

Cars 2 and Zumba Fitness take the next two places, followed by Call of Duty: Black Ops, Harry Potter: The Deathly Hallows Part 2 and Brink.

GfK/Chart-Track Xbox 360 Top 10 (week ending July 30):

01. Call of Juarez: The Cartel (Ubisoft)
02. Dirt 3 (Codemasters)
03. LA Noire (Take 2)
04. FIFA 11 (EA)
05. UFC Fitness Trainer (EA)
06. Cars 2 (Disney)
07. Zumba Fitness (505 Games)
08. Call of Duty: Black Ops (Activision)
09. Harry Potter: The Deathly Hallows Part 2 (EA)
10. Brink (Bethesda)

http://www.computerandvideogames.com...cartel-is-no1/

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'Pxl Pushr' blends Kinect and iPad play to impressive, multicolor results

August 1st, 2011, 18:54 Posted By: wraggster



Among the dozen or so games strewn about New York City's Museum of Modern Art (during last week's Kill Screen-curated "Arcade" event) two titles had their playable debuts: Eric Zimmerman and Nathalie Pozzi's "Starry Heavens" ("a physical game of power and betrayal"), as well as Matt Boch and Ryan Challinor's "Pxl Pushr" ("something akin to a full-bodied theremin blended with a puzzle game"). Considering what the two freshman entries were up against -- critically acclaimed games like Limbo, Canabalt, and Echochrome -- it was impressive that both games had lengthy lines throughout the evening.

I mean no offense when I say this, but Pxl Pusher looks like what would've happened if Kinect technology had existed in the Coleco Vision days. In the same way that your Dad's sweet 1973 Lacoste track jacket still looks totally rad, so does Pxl Pushr. The bizarre look is both a measure of the dev duo's style -- their day jobs are as designers at Harmonix -- and of the short-term development cycle. "Over the past four weeks-ish we've been messing around building this game," Boch explained.

In Pxl Pushr, one player places dots on an iPad, while another player attempts to catch as many dots as possible by using the contortions of their body (via Kinect). The player contorting their body is scored on how many pixels he/she is able to "push" versus the ones they miss. It's a simple concept for sure, but one that had many attendees smiling while making very silly poses. Not that the crowd's reaction was foreign to Boch and Challinor, two gentlemen who spend their working hours with Dance Central 2.

http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/01/px...ive-multicolo/

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Windows Phone changes logo, officially hip to be square

August 2nd, 2011, 12:47 Posted By: wraggster



What's in a logo? These days, it's everything -- it's one of the most recognizable symbols a company can have, and it appears Microsoft isn't taking its emblems lightly. Over the course of the past week we've noticed an interesting trend: the Windows Phone branding has shed the circle-based icon in exchange for a square-shaped variant, appropriately reflecting the platform's "tile" look and minimalist theme. We first thought this was a fluke when we peered at the new logo at Fujitsu's IS12T event last week, as though it were a localized version made for Japan; as it turns out, however, this is indeed an official change across the board. If you need more proof than the source link below, yesterday's press invite for Nokia's Gamescom party features the new squared variant as well. We're still holding out for a green robot-shaped logo, but this will have to do for now.

http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/02/w...-to-be-square/

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EA Season Ticket subscription launches

August 2nd, 2011, 16:15 Posted By: wraggster

Update: EA Sports has explained to Eurogamer why the EA Sports Season Ticket is only available on Xbox 360 in Europe.

"While we have not reached an agreement for the program with Sony Europe," EA said, "we're pleased to be able to offer EA Sports Season Ticket for both PS3 and Xbox 360 in North America and Xbox 360 in Europe."

Original story: The vision EA Sports vice president Andrew Wilson presented to Eurogamer of a paid subscription service has come true - EA Sports Season Ticket has launched.

For an annual fee of $24.99 or 2000 Microsoft Points, you'll get early access to EA Sports games, discounted DLC, premium web content and membership recognition.

You can subscribe through Xbox Live today. EA Sports Season Ticket is available on PS3 in North America only.

On Xbox 360, download and launch the EA Sports application and "follow the prompts" to take part. On PS3, search for EA Sports Season Ticket. The first EA game to support the Season Ticket will be Madden NFL 12, which launches this month.

Future Season Ticket games include FIFA, Tiger Woods PGA Tour, NHL Hockey and NCAA Football.

Season Ticket holders get access to EA Sports games three days before release via digital distribution. Once the game hits shop shelves, the digital version will disappear and you'll have to go to a shop and buy the title. All your Achievements and Trophies carry over, and you'll have had a crucial head start on the competition.

The small print: "Digital download is available at 6pm EST four days before launch to ensure subscribers get a full three days to play following the download time. The digital version will time out when the product is available at retail."

All DLC will be knocked down 20 per cent for Season Ticket holders.

All EA Sports games will pack 'premium web content' that Season Ticket holders get for free. This will begin with the Creation Center packs for FIFA 12. These offer better customisation tools with which to build teams and tournaments.

Season Ticket holders will also stand out by brandishing a special and exclusive badge on EA Sports profiles and in game.

http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/20...ption-launches

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XBL deal of the week: Change your Gamertag

August 2nd, 2011, 23:33 Posted By: wraggster

If you've been thinking of changing your Xbox Live Gamertag now is the time to do it.

The latest XBL deal of the week offer enables Gold subscription members to alter their online handle for 560 Microsoft Points (about £4.80), representing a 30 percent saving on the regular price.

You can change it via the Gamertag option in the My Xbox section of the console's dashboard. There's no need to tell your friends either as their friends list will automatically update with your new name.

Microsoft told CVG last week that Xbox Live's last 12 months were its biggest ever in terms of recruiting new members to the service.

http://www.computerandvideogames.com...your-gamertag/

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Halo Anniversary's Kinect features 'not hyper-exciting'

August 2nd, 2011, 23:35 Posted By: wraggster

Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary's Kinect functionality isn't going to be something to write home about, if comments from 343 Industries franchise development director Frank O'Connor are anything to go by.

"I don't think it's going to be something that people need to be hyper-excited about," he told OXM. "It'll be cool, but it's not something you'd put on the front of the box.

"I don't want to downplay it," he added, "but I think of it like this - I use voice on Netflix and it's awesome, and that's what this'll be. Something that enhances you overall experience."

O'Connor also reiterated that Kinect support won't "in any way, affect the core gameplay".

http://www.computerandvideogames.com...yper-exciting/

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FreeBOOT Toolbox 0.04 Maker v2.7.2

August 2nd, 2011, 23:54 Posted By: wraggster

BestPig released a new version of freeBOOT ToolBox - a tool that allows to create and customize a freeBOOT image based on an original or XBR/freeBOOT dump.

What's new/fixed:
* Added support for the 13599 kernel thanks to fbBuild 0.32
* Removed hashcheck (WARNING! this is experimental, try it ONLY if you have a JTAG cable)

Official Site: http://www.bestpig.fr

http://www.xbox-scene.com/xbox1data/...lFosrOrbSZ.php

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Boxzii ODD Emulator

August 2nd, 2011, 23:56 Posted By: wraggster

From boxzii.com:
[QUOTE]
We are proud of present the coolest device for the XBOX 360 videogame console , enjoy HARD DRIVE CONNECTION or PC ISO Streaming 2IN1 solution and store all the disc game images supported ...... Boxzii includes two different functional modules ..
* Module 1 : Mainboard to be installed inside Xbox360 , nonsolder and Plug and play, includes external PC USB dongle for connection/control/isos loading via PC USB.
* Module 2 Add-on : External OLED control panel Module 1 Add-on, connects USB HDD/Pendrives without PC required .

* Module 1 : Internal Mainboard + USB PC Control Dongle
- Xbox 360 XDG2/XGD3 Compatible
- Supports Dash (2.13599) included
- Supports FAT Consoles / AP25 Emulation
- SLIM support by Simple USB software Upgrade
- Plug and Play/Requires DVD Key
- NO FLASHED DRIVE or JTAG EXPLOIT required
- 100% SOLDERLESS
- USB 2.0 and ULTRAFAST LOADINGS
- Avoid Overheating and >75% 3 Red lights of Death posibilites
- Avoid tedious drive fw reflash
- DVD/DL/Multigame compatible
- Full upgradeable by USB/JTAG
- NOTE : It's highly recommended do not use Boxzii for XBOX LIVE gaming
mode , even the AP25 and other protections are supported , Microsoft is
continuously upgrading XBOX360 detection methods for backup devices
banning ,, USE BOXZII when PLAYING ONLINE AT YOUR OWN RISK !!!!!

* Module 2 : External OLED Control Panel for USB HDD/Pendrive (No PC required)
-OLED control panel
- USB HDD/Pendrive supported
- Supports ALL Motherboards
- USB & Jtag upgrades
- Easy Installation
Official Site: http://www.boxzii.com

http://www.xbox-scene.com/xbox1data/...FlOupAWMyF.php

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Wasabi X360 and X360S

August 2nd, 2011, 23:57 Posted By: wraggster

The ultimate ODDE (Optical Disc Drive Emulator), allows you to emulate your 360's optical disc drive and run Xbox 360 or Xbox 1 ISO's from HDD. No more hunting for game discs, simply execute your favourite ISO's from any ESATA HDD. Easy, fast, safe and convenient.

Features include:
* Solderless installation
* Selection of your favourite ISO's via our intuitive user interface
* Support for AP25 enabled ISO's
* ESATA interface is used in place of USB providing superior performance, since data is transferred directly between the ESATA HDD and Xbox 360 resulting in impressively high bandwidth, many times faster than reading from a real DVD disc
* Elegant and streamlined console inspired case design
* Versions available for both fat and slim consoles
* NTFS file system natively supported
* Powerful embedded CPU running performance tuned Real Time Operating System
* Regular firmware updates available free for download
* Fully updatable hardware (MCU and FPGA's) from ESATA HDD including a failsafe recovery mode
* No need to modify your original ODD
* Hardware selectable pass through mode - providing access to the original ODD

Features coming soon:
* Xbox Live compatibility
* Dumping of X360 ISO's from original discs
http://www.xbox-scene.com/xbox1data/...EFUwlrYeQw.php

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Maximus: Gecko 1.16 Released, New Tool Trident MX and Slim Liteon Full Firmware dumpe

August 3rd, 2011, 00:00 Posted By: wraggster

From 360lizard.com:
[QUOTE]
We are proud to announce the release of Gecko 1.16 we have done tons of internal changes on it but the most important are 2 new features:

Support for a new Tool in the Maximus product range: Trident MX. This small tool will make a unlocking of the Slim Liteon with Macronix SPI a breeze. (Compatible with Lizard and JungleFlasher)

Also included is a new awesome feature: The Full Dump of Slim Lite-on DG-16D4S. (Full credit of this goes to Geremia for the tarablinda application). Due to the new 0225 variants discovered, we strongly recommend get a full dump of your drive before flashing it whenever you can (in order to be able to full dump you require the board has its SPI Flash Unlocked)..

Full Specification of Trident MX:

Trident MX by Team-maximus (AVAILABLE TODAY !!!)

We have this design produced long time ago, we were waiting to release in package with Winbond solution but due to the the latest leaks on the Macronix method we have choosen to release as is. It is Based on the Macronix Power trick , we have created a professional, safe, simple to use, and reusable tool.

The Trident MX tool will Unlock the Write-protected Lite-on Slim drives DG-16D4S that comes with a Macronix internal SPI Flash. Until recently locked drives where only found in the firmware’s 0225, 0401 and 1071, but the latest dashboard update (2.0.13599) has locked the 9504 drives with 0272 firmware, The Trident MX is a MUST have in your arsenal of weapons.

Combined with the POWER of Maximus Lizard (Gecko 1.16 and above) and in a few days supported by Jungleflasher, this is the perfect tool to do the job professionally and without hassle.

Forget about tricking the drive with unsafe methods of picking and choosing different resistors; We have an adjustable trimmer installed (Ships pre-set to proper value for optimum performance). There is no need to run a complex application to do the Macronix Unlock - Maximus Lizard does the magic for you.

The Trident MX is a tool designed for pro-modders but will be loved be even by the newest Modder !!

Features:
a) Designed to work with Macronix Power trick (requiring only 1 cut)
b) Precision controlled Shoot time; will not cause overheating of the Voltage Regulators
c) Automatic Control - "just push down” operation
d) Also support’s a manual mode with a simple button press
e) Retry system with automatic safe-tested time increments.
f) Adjustable resistor values (shipped pre-set to optimum performance)
g) The perfect companion tool for Lizard and Jungleflasher g) Shipped in a protective case for storage between uses

Note: This tool works only with Macronix SPI Flash. (For Winbond we are still developing a proper and safe solution to be announced at another time.)

Official Site: http://www.360lizard.com

http://www.xbox-scene.com/xbox1data/...VVFuGVTzjC.php

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From Dust breaks Ubisoft sales records

August 5th, 2011, 10:47 Posted By: wraggster

XBLA title From Dust has broken Ubisoft day one sales records for a digital download by 45 per cent.

Ubisoft did not reveal how many copies of the game had been downloaded so far.

"From Dust is another great example of Ubisoft’s ongoing commitment to bring original intellectual properties and brands to the digital space,” said Chris Early, Ubi's VP of digital publishing.

"Ubisoft is a creative company dedicated to delivering innovative and engaging content for all types of players – whether it’s a big retail game or a short format digital title such as From Dust."

Developed by Ubisoft Montpellier and designed by Eric Chahi, the strategy game allows players to protect a tribe of villagers using the environment.

The game is currently available on XBLA, with a PC release scheduled for August 17. The game will also be available on PSN.

http://www.gamesindustry.biz/article...-sales-records

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Homebrew Devs - id Software to release Doom 3 source code

August 5th, 2011, 10:52 Posted By: wraggster

Could be very interesting for Homebrew devs out there:

id Software will release the source code for Doom 3 later this year.

Speaking at Quakecon 2011, id's technical director John Carmack revealed that parent company Zenimax was supportive of the move. He also challenged other developers to release their own source code, arguing that it helps the community.

The source code will be available after the launch of Rage, which hits shelves in October.

id's engine Id Tech Five will also go open source, but not until it's no longer used for official projects. Carmack speculated that this could be as long as ten years away.

Carmack refused to talk about id's next big project, Doom 4, but did reveal that there were already plans for Rage 2. He also described a browser-version of classic title Wolfenstein as “off the table.”

Quakecon is an annual gaming event held in Dallas, Texas, and and curated by id Software. The event will run until August 7.

http://www.gamesindustry.biz/article...-3-source-code

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Jersey Shore joins Xbox avatar store

August 7th, 2011, 21:55 Posted By: wraggster

Xbox owners can now dress their avatars in clothing inspired by hit MTV reality show Jersey Shore.
Jersey Shore follows eight tanned Italian-American stereotypes who live by the seaside in the US state of New Jersey.
Microsoft added the collection of tank tops, shutter shades and toned bod-revealing t-shirts last night to coincide with the series' fourth season US premiere.
Gamers can virtually wear the hoop earrings often modelled by cast member JWOWW (aka Jennifer Farley, aka JeniferWoww) for 80 Microsoft Points (about 68p).
From Dust meets The Situation Abs.

Jersey Shore Snooki Hair costs 160 Microsoft Points (£1.36). A set of The Situation Abs will buff your avatar up for the same amount.
Xbox.com has a list of the full Jersey Shore range. The latest Marketplace update also added new content for id shooter Rage and Atari tower defense title Warlords.

http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/20...x-avatar-store

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Nyko's Kinect Zoom delayed to September

August 7th, 2011, 22:42 Posted By: wraggster

Does Nyko's space-saving Kinect Zoom peripheral really work? I doesn't look like you'll be finding out this month, as originally planned.
The device, which claims to reduce the amount of space needed to play Kinect, was originally announced for an August 23 release but, as Joystiq points out, that date has been changed on retailer sites such as Amazon andGameStop to September 13.

The Nyko Zoom clip-on lense for Kinect apparently cuts Kinect's space operating requirements by 40% - to a little over three feet, which is far more manageable - and apparently impressed a number of outlets at this year's E3 show.

But Microsoft warned against using it when it said: "Kinect has been tested for performance, accuracy and environmental conditions thoroughly. Any modification can impact the overall performance of Kinect."

Nyko is yet to officially confirm a delay.

http://www.computerandvideogames.com...-to-september/

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BBC would "love" iPlayer on Xbox 360

August 8th, 2011, 16:28 Posted By: wraggster

Speaking to TechRadar following the launch this morning of an overhauled version of its TV catch-up service, BBC general manager for programmes and on demand Daniel Danker confirmed that it is Microsoft's wish to restrict iPlayer to paying Xbox Live subscribers that was keeping the service off Xbox 360. "We want to be on as many devices as possible," he said. "Of course we'd love to be on the Xbox because we want to get iPlayer to as many licence payers as possible. We want to be on the cheapest level that you can have on Xbox, and not only for Gold subscribers

http://www.next-gen.biz/news/bbc-wou...layer-xbox-360

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China loses partial access to Windows Phone 7 Marketplace, Great Firewall to be blame

August 8th, 2011, 16:29 Posted By: wraggster

It's a well-known fact that China's Great Firewall isn't particularly friendly with certain foreign online services, and sadly, it appears that we may now have a new victim joining the likes of Facebook, Twitter and, sometimes, Android Market. According to Windows Phone Sauce blogger Kane Gao, many Windows Phone 7 users in China have had limited access to the Marketplace over the last few days -- they can't download any app, but they can still browse content and receive update notifications.

While Microsoft's service has yet to go live in China, Chinese users could still purchase apps by changing all of their profile location settings to the US. Alas, this trick is of no use now, though it's unlikely that Microsoft's the culprit here -- it wouldn't make sense to block genuine US users who are visiting China. Fortunately, Kane had no problem getting to the Marketplace via a US VPN, which is a big tell-tale sign showing that the Great Firewall has decided to barricade WP7's very own app market. The reason? We'll never know, and there's no telling on whether this is a permanent ban, either. Nokia, being a big player in the country, sure hopes not.

http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/08/c...etplace-great/

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Modern Warfare 3 interest 'unlike anything in Activision's history'

August 8th, 2011, 16:46 Posted By: wraggster

Activision CEO Bobby Kotick says consumer excitement surrounding Modern Warfare 3 is on a scale he hasn't witnessed before.
The executive told Reuters he couldn't disclose the number of pre-orders the publisher has taken for the game, but that it is "meaningfully different" to those for last year's Call of Duty: Black Ops.

"It's sort of surprising because you always go into the launch of a new Call of Duty game with an expectation that ... it's a hard number to beat, but if you look at the player enthusiasm for Modern Warfare 3, I don't know if we've really seen anything like it in our 21-year history."

Retailer GAME said last month it expects MW3 to break all UK pre-order records and become the firm's bestselling title ever.

Check out the most recent Modern Warfare 3 screenshots here.

http://www.computerandvideogames.com...sions-history/

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GTA inspired Tottenham, Brixton riots, suggests Police officer

August 8th, 2011, 16:48 Posted By: wraggster

A Tottenham police officer has claimed that the London riots that saw buildings burn across the capital over the weekend were inspired by Grand Theft Auto.
That's according to UK trade bible MCV, which reports that the officer suggested to media this morning that the game had acted as a "catalyst" for the events.

A member of the Evening Standard newspaper confirmed that the GTA quotes were to be included in an article in tonight's edition of the free paper. The source would not rule out, however, the possibility of alterations being made before the paper hits presses.

In the same report, an Enfield resident is also credited with saying that GTA contributed to the civil unrest.

The Rockstar gangster series has, of course, been dragged to centre stage by the UK press following violent outbreaks in the past.

While the Daily Star didn't blame the killing spree that Raoul Moat embarked upon last July on GTA but it did claim that a GTA edition based on the horrific events was planned.http://www.computerandvideogames.com/314617/gta-inspired-tottenham-brixton-riots-suggests-police-officer/

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Record holder hits 600,000 Gamerscore

August 8th, 2011, 22:52 Posted By: wraggster

Guinness World Record holder Raymond Cox's Xbox 360 Gamerscore has topped 600,000.
"I have a tough goal: Get to 666,666 by Halloween 2011, October 31st," he wrote on his blog, 1milliongamerscore.com.

"A lot of good upcoming milestones to look forward to and a lot of good games to play this fall. And by a lot, I mean it. So much to look forward to. At the end of the day, I'm 100,000 closer to my ultimate goal, 1,000,000 Gamerscore."

http://www.computerandvideogames.com/314666/record-holder-hits-600000-gamerscore/

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JungleFlasher v0.1.86 (267)

August 8th, 2011, 23:21 Posted By: wraggster

As always with a new C4E iXtreme release, Team Jungle also comes with a new version of JungleFlasher to add full support for the new firmwares.

What's new/fixed:
* Support for LT Plus 1.91
-Lite-on Slim 0272, 0225, 0225u, 0401
-Lite-on Phat 02510C
-Benq 04421C
-Hitachi 78/79
* Bug fix for non USB MTK routines: Read, Write, Phatkey etc....
* Support for Sputnik/Russian MXIC unlock methods.

Official Site: http://www.jungleflasher.net
http://www.xbox-scene.com/xbox1data/...EAFgVQhRMr.php

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C4E's iXtreme LT+ 1.91 FULL Firmware Pack

August 8th, 2011, 23:22 Posted By: wraggster

C4E released the iXtreme LT+ v1.91 CFW in association with Team Jungle & Team Xecuter:


Official Site: C4Eva, jungleflasher.net, team-xecuter.com

http://www.xbox-scene.com/xbox1data/...VkATSTirHE.php

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Jtag Tool v3.50

August 8th, 2011, 23:23 Posted By: wraggster

Coolshrimp released a new version of Jtag Tool - an all-in-one GUI installer to create and put the latest freeBOOT fbBuild on your jtag'able 360 via USB/LTP.

What's new/fixed:
* New Dash Support(13599)
* Added New Dash (MS Update Files)

Official Site: tech-modz.net
http://www.xbox-scene.com/xbox1data/...FyZAMUZawi.php

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Easy FreeBoot v5.33

August 8th, 2011, 23:24 Posted By: wraggster

Sneakypeanut released a new version of his Easy freeBOOT - an application which will automate the creation of a freeBOOT image for JTAG-able consoles based on the original NAND image.

What's new/fixed:
* SMC Config editor
* added more donor files
* fixed jasperyness
* Ability to change donor file region
* Ability to bring cpukey dialog up
* New IO ( no more packet io virus warnings ) thanks Stoker25

http://www.xbox-scene.com/xbox1data/...VEHWWuefIe.php

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ABGX360 about new iXtreme v1.91 FW and AP2.6

August 9th, 2011, 12:06 Posted By: wraggster

From abgx360.net:


Official Site: http://www.abgx360.net
http://www.xbox-scene.com/xbox1data/...uFFYrQwYnM.php

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Call of Duty + + Kinect Faast 0.07

August 9th, 2011, 12:19 Posted By: wraggster

Here is a new video directed by MrWest of d3prod.fr This new video shows MrWest playing Call of Duty PC with Kinect Faast 0.07 and Binding File (recognition of movement based on key votes cast)






Binding file file will be posted soon on the forum Faast (time to refine the recognition of the legs). Homepage: http://d3prod.fr

http://x360.gx-mod.com/modules/news/...p?storyid=3482

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Microsoft's KinectFusion research project offers real-time 3D reconstruction, wild AR

August 9th, 2011, 23:15 Posted By: wraggster

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Nokia to retire Symbian in North America, going all-in on Windows Phone

August 9th, 2011, 23:19 Posted By: wraggster

We know that Symbian isn't dying any time soon, but here in the US of A the little OS that couldn't quite captivate our picky buyers will soon be mighty hard to find. Speaking with All Things D, Chris Weber, President of Nokia's US operations, said "When we launch Windows Phones we will essentially be out of the Symbian business, the S40 business, etc." That means no more full-price or business-focused devices in the US, and no more Symbian love. This is at least in part thanks to the failure of the Astoundto find a solid foothold, but Nokia's upcoming Windows Phone offerings (like the Sea Ray) will at least follow in its footsteps, being sold with proper carrier subsidies and riding the wave of a giant advertising blitz. Will it work? According to Weber, it has to: "The reality is if we are not successful with Windows Phone, it doesn't matter what we do."

http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/09/n...-in-on-window/

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Ben Heck splits and condenses a pair of Xbox 360 controllers for the disabled

August 9th, 2011, 23:24 Posted By: wraggster

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Xbox Live Marketplace downloads

August 9th, 2011, 23:44 Posted By: wraggster

Another week, another Xbox Live Marketplace release list and the only new games in the pipeline are Fruit Ninja Kinect and Toy Soldiers: Cold War, set for August 10 and 17 respectively.
Freddy Krueger arrives in Mortal Kombat today along with demos for Madden NFL 12 and Driver: San Francisco, while Dance Central is getting new songs from James Brown and Lloyd next week, Rock Band songs make up the latest Deals of the Week.

Today Driver demo is the single-player incarnation (and Ubisoft's released a new trailer to go with it) - a multiplayer demo will be released on August 16.

Get the full Xbox Live Marketplace release list through the source link.

http://www.computerandvideogames.com...ace-downloads/

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Xbox 360 to dominate July US hardware sales - analysts

August 9th, 2011, 23:46 Posted By: wraggster

Games industry analysts have weighed in with US sales predictions for the month of July, ahead of the release of official market data by the NPD Group this Thursday.

Wedbush Morgan's Michael Pachter and fellow analyst firm EEDAR expect Xbox 360 to be the top-selling platform for the seventh consecutive month, ahead of DS, Wii and PS3. Sony's home console is the only system both analyst firms expect to record an improvement over last July's sales total. Meanwhile, 3DS sales are forecast to come in second-bottom, ahead of PSP only, unless you still count PS2.

Wedbush / EEDAR July sales estimates (change year-on-year):
360 - 350,000 (-21%) / 401,000 (-10%)
DS - 315,000 (-21%) / 310,000 (-22%)
Wii - 230,000 (-9%) / 225,000 (-11%)
PS3 - 220,000 (+3%) / 229,000 (+7%)
3DS - 110,000 (n/a) / 100,000 (n/a)
PSP - 90,000 (+7%) / 80,000 (-5%)
PS2 - 10,000 (-59%) / n/a
Total - 1,325,000 (-7%) / 1,345,000 (-5%)

On the software front, Pachter said he expects July sales to be led by new release NCAA Football 12, with continued strong sales of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D, Infamous 2 and LA Noire.

http://www.computerandvideogames.com...ales-analysts/

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MoleBot interactive gaming table hooks up with Kinect, puts Milton Bradley on watch

August 11th, 2011, 23:34 Posted By: wraggster

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Free Minesweeper hits Windows Phone 7

August 12th, 2011, 00:05 Posted By: wraggster

An Xbox Live enabled version of the Windows puzzle classic (which must surely also be one of the most played videogames of all time), has just joined Sudoku on Microsoft's smartphone platform. It includes Classic and Speed modes and Xbox Live features: ten Achievements and leaderboards. The downside is, however, that they're only available in the US.

http://www.next-gen.biz/news/free-mi...indows-phone-7

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Microsoft sued over Xbox Live billing

August 13th, 2011, 22:51 Posted By: wraggster

An Indiana man has filed a class action lawsuit against Microsoft, alledging that the company charged him for a two year subscription without his consent.
Ryan Graves, the plaintiff, allowed his Xbox Live subscription to lapse, leaving out of date credit card information on his account. When he updated those details a short time later he was billed twice, both for the expired and new subscription, giving him two tears of service.
Graves says this two year subscription was against his wishes, and Microsoft has refused to refund the charge.
He is seeking damages on the following charges. "Plaintiff asserts claims for breach of contract, unjust enrichment, conversion, and violation of the Electronic Funds Transfer Act (EFTA), 15 U.S.C. § 1693, et seq., on behalf of himself and similarly situated Xbox LIVE Gold members."
Graves also claims that the terms and conditions of Xbox Live are "vague and onerous" and unlawful.
Xbox Live has around 23 million subscribers.

http://www.gamesindustry.biz/article...x-live-billing

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Secret Xbox blockbuster reboot set for reveal - but what is it?

August 13th, 2011, 23:06 Posted By: wraggster

A secret triple-A title set to be 'reborn' on Xbox 360 will feature in an upcoming issue of OXM UK, it has been confirmed.
The mysterious title, which was originally due to be shown in OXM's March issue before a delay, will now finally appear in its issue out September 30.

OXM UK editor Jon Hicks told CVG: "I've been discussing it with the publisher ever since the reveal was pushed back, and I'm delighted that it's finally ready to be seen.

"Unfortunately we aren't doing the official reveal any more, as our on-sale dates don't match up, but we will have exclusive access to the game and the studio making it."

The elusive reboot was previously described as "One of the best games ever made reborn on Xbox 360."

Those words came from OXM's February next month page, which looked slightly futuristic - possibly science fiction-esque.

That doesn't really narrow it down too much in the world of video games, but you can speculate away regardless. What do you reckon it could be, readers?http://www.computerandvideogames.com/315245/secret-xbox-blockbuster-reboot-set-for-reveal-but-what-is-it/

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Xbox Live Rewards glitch dishes out free MS Points

August 13th, 2011, 23:11 Posted By: wraggster

A glitch in the Xbox Live Rewards programme dished out 1000s of free Microsoft Points to numerous users last night.
Noticing the extra points appearing in their account, some gamers went on a spending spree, while others got in touch with Xbox customer support fearing their credit card had been hacked. Others contacted the platform holder just to find out what was going on and if they would be allowed to keep the points.

Xbox support sent out a number of Tweets on the subject in response to user questions. "We appreciate your honesty. Enjoy your points," read one. "There was a known issue with the rewards system. The points you were rewarded are yours," said another.

However, the firm then said the free points were being recalled. Asked if users who spent the points will be able to keep what they bought with them, Xbox support said: "We don't have any info on that."

We've contacted Microsoft to get the latest on the matter.http://www.computerandvideogames.com/315186/xbox-live-rewards-glitch-dishes-out-free-ms-points/

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360Lizard: Gecko 1.19 Released

August 14th, 2011, 21:32 Posted By: wraggster

From 360lizard.com:


Official Site: http://www.360lizard.com
http://www.xbox-scene.com/xbox1data/...kklflnznQs.php

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The official word on the glossy Xbox 360

August 14th, 2011, 21:34 Posted By: wraggster

From majornelson.com:


http://www.xbox-scene.com/xbox1data/...AyPpptJnvd.php

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Odamex v0.5.4, NestopiaX v1.2, Bluemsx v5, Final Burn Legends v1.4, PCSXBox v2 UO, Co

August 14th, 2011, 21:35 Posted By: wraggster

Several new emulators and homebrew games have been updated for the Xbox1:

* Odamex v0.5.4 - more details/forum-thread

* Bluemsx v5 - more details/forum-thread

* Nestopiax v1.2 - more details/forum-thread

* Final Burn Legends v1.4 - more details/forum-thread

* PCSXBox v2 unofficial - more details

* CoinOPS 2 R6 - more details

http://www.xbox-scene.com/xbox1data/...AVdoHOxmIG.php

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Epic may ban those who spoil Gears 3

August 15th, 2011, 15:21 Posted By: wraggster

Those who shared Gears of War 3 campaign spoiler videos online may be banned from playing the game, Epic has said.
Earlier this month Epic said it was keeping track of those who shared videos of Gears of War 3 ahead of release - and promised "repercussions".
Following the high-profile leak of a pre-release version of the game, videos of the campaign popped up online, spoiling the Xbox 360 exclusive's story.
"We're extremely diligent about getting that stuff taken down and issued a call to fans to not perpetuate it... and just keeping track of those who do," executive producer Rod Fergusson told Edge. "I don't think everybody's aware of the potential repercussions of those types of actions."
Speaking to Eurogamer on the issue, Fergusson explained exactly what he meant by "potential repercussions".
"We have a banning system built into our stuff so we can go in and identify certain people," he said. "Some people aren't smart about what they do. They'll be disappointed on 20th September when they can't get in and can't play. They may be banned."
Last month Epic said it had joined forces with law enforcement to investigate the leak of an unfinished version of Gears of War 3 onto the internet.
At the time the Unreal Engine maker warned fans that the footage lifted from the leaked game did not do the final game justice.
Those who shared campaign spoiler videos were "going against everything we're trying to accomplish," Fergusson told Eurogamer.
"We had one of my video chats and somebody went into the chat room and tried to yell all caps spoilers throughout the chat room to try to ruin the experience for the thousand people who were watching me. It's that kind of stuff that just drives me crazy.
"If you don't value this community, you don't value this experience, then we don't value you. I'd rather pick that one bad apple out of the pool so everybody else can have a better time."

http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/20...-spoil-gears-3

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Gears of War 3 stereoscopic 3D announced

August 15th, 2011, 15:23 Posted By: wraggster

Upcoming Xbox 360 exclusive Gears of War 3 includes the option to play in stereoscopic 3D, Epic Games has announced.
"We asked, could we do it?" executive producer Rod Fergusson told Eurogamer at a Gears of War 3 event in London.
"It felt like something we wanted to have. It was a feature we didn't want to be deficient in. When you look at Gears 1, it was what people used to demo HD at the time.
"It's still fledgling technology. It's still a niche feature. But it was something we could support, so we felt, why not?"
A handful of Xbox 360 games have launched under the "stereoscopic 3D" banner, including Crytek's Crysis 2 and Treyarch's Call of Duty: Black Ops.
But the Xbox 360 does not, currently, output in 3D to the same degree as the PlayStation 3. That is, it does not output in full, HDMI 1.4 stereoscopic 3D in the 1280x1470 twin 720p framebuffer configuration.
Instead, the Xbox 360 renders using 3D techniques based on the principle of two distinct images crammed into one 720p framebuffer. This is how Gears of War 3's 3D effect works.
It also forces the game to run at a lower resolution. "It's a little bit jaggier in certain areas," Fergusson said. But the difference is "not huge". "Instead of 720p you're at five something," he explained.
"It was something that came in really late in our process. It wasn't something where we said, OK, we're going to design the game from the ground up for 3D. It was more of a post-process 3D, where we're like, OK, certain things need to be adjusted, but for the most part it generally works.
"It's great. I love the qualities it provides, the window into a world. That's what the 3D gives you. Having that depth of character, and being able to see that separation from the reticule and the creatures in the background – it's a different experience but it's a really good one."
Meanwhile, Fergusson confirmed Eurogamer's May story that revealed that full, PlayStation 3 level stereoscopic 3D is coming to the Xbox 360 – in effect a 720p image per eye.
"As you look forward, in the next XDKs [Xbox Development Kit] coming out of the Xbox, it'll have more support for 3D or more higher quality for native support for 3D," Fergusson said.
"We're supporting the current state of the art for Xbox. Moving forward, the Xbox will be able to take it further."
Fergusson's comments here suggest full stereo 3D on Xbox 360 will not be enabled until after Gears of War 3's 20th September launch.

http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/20...c-3d-announced

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XBOX CHART: Dirt 3 maintains lead

August 15th, 2011, 22:23 Posted By: wraggster

Codemasters' Dirt 3 stays at No.1 on the official UK Xbox 360 sales chart for another week, with FIFA 11 coming up from No.4 to take second place.
Last week's runner up, Call of Juarez: The Cartel, moves down to No.3 ahead of Lego Pirates of the Caribbean, which climbs 16 spots from No.20 to No.4.

LA Noire is at No.5 and Zumba Fitness at No.6, while Battlefield: Bad Company 2 advances from No.10 to No.7.

Brink is up from No.23 to No.8, while Skate 3 and UFC Personal Trainer round off the top ten.

GfK/Chart-Track Xbox 360 Top 10 (week ending August 13):

• 01. Dirt 3 (Codemasters)
  02. FIFA 11 (EA)
  03. Call of Juarez: The Cartel (Ubisoft)
  04. Pirates of the Carribean (Disney)
  05. LA Noire (Take 2)
  06. Zumba Fitness (505 Games)
  07. Battlefield: Bad Company 2 (EA)
  08. Brink (Bethesda)
  09. Skate 3 (EA)
  10. UFC Fitness Trainer (EA)
  
  http://www.computerandvideogames.com...aintains-lead/

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Xbox 360: dead in Japan?

August 15th, 2011, 22:31 Posted By: wraggster

As sales slump and its last great exclusive goes multiplatform, retailers confirm plans to phase out Microsoft's console.


The Xbox 360's life appears to be coming to an end in Japan, with hardware sales falling, retailers beginning to turn their back on the console, and the system's last high-profile Japanese exclusive headed to PlayStation 3.

In June, Microsoft announced that Japanese Xbox 360 sales had finally passed 1.5 million units since the system's release in 2005, but that should not be taken as a sign that its fortunes are improving. Media Create data for the year to date puts Xbox 360 hardware sales at just 72,721 units, a drop of 46.7 per cent on the same period last year. Sales of its rival, Sony's PlayStation 3, have also fallen year on year, but only by 17.1 per cent, to 735,637 units.

The slump in sales has, we understand, caused many Japanese videogame retailers to contemplate dropping the Xbox 360 altogether. Geo, the nation's largest specialist retailer, is drastically scaling back its Xbox 360 business, and staff at electronics retailer Yamada Denki in Ikebukuro, Tokyo, confirmed that the company is removing hardware and software from the majority of its stores nationwide, and is selling off its remaining stock at a heavy discount. It will still sell the console and games, but only in selected stores where the system continues to be sufficiently popular.

In Tokyo's smaller, specialist stores, Xbox 360 consoles and games are beginning to appear in bargain bins, or "wagon sales". Games can be had for as little as ¥100 (79p), with one store selling the Halo: Reach hardware bundle for ¥9,980 (£79.30).

Perhaps the biggest indicator of the Xbox 360's struggles in Japan is the fate of The Idolmaster. Namco Bandai's pop-star management game, first released in arcades in 2005, was an Xbox 360 exclusive, its 2007 release reportedly causing a rush of new Xbox Live signups and a sharp increase in sales of Microsoft Points.

While PSP and DS releases followed, it was Microsoft's last high-profile console exclusive, and a sequel was released in February. It sold 34,621 copies in the week of its release, entering the Japanese all-formats chart at number ten, but the following week, it did not even make the top 40. The 2009 PSP release sold around 122,000 copies in its first week, and was in the top 40 for five weeks in total.

As such it was no surprise when, late last month, Namco Bandai announced that it would be porting Idolmaster 2 to PlayStation 3, with the Xbox 360 version's DLC included.

With mobile games increasingly popular in Japan - the sector's rise driven by mobile social networks like Gree and Mobage - cross-platform connectivity is becoming increasingly important as companies seek to protect their traditional sources of revenue.

Sony is becoming increasingly aware of this, with the upcoming Monster Hunter HD, the first game released for PS3 as part of the PSP Remaster series, allowing a single save file to be shared between PS3 and PSP. Microsoft, of course, has no portable console. With PSP still selling in huge numbers in Japan, and Vita set for release before the end of the year, it's little surprise that publisher eyes are drawn towards Sony: after all, cross-platform play means selling two games instead of one.

Kinect has done much to extend the 360's life in the west, sales of 8 million units in its first 60 days seeing it awarded a Guinness World Record, named the fastest-selling consumer electronics device of all time. In Japan, it was outsold on launch by PlayStation Move - no great surprise given PS3's far larger installed base - with one retailer saying shortly after launch that, far from helping sell the console to a wider audience, it was only being bought by existing Xbox 360 owners.

While the console's gradual disappearance from store shelves does not prevent gamers making their purchases online - indeed, it is our understanding that Amazon now handles a substantial proportion of Japanese Xbox 360 software sales - it does complicate things for Microsoft.

With an Xbox 360 successor widely accepted to be released in 2014, the firm may struggle to convince Japanese retailers to stock and prominently display the console when they have a decade's worth of proof that higher returns are available elsewhere.

Microsoft clearly still holds the Japanese market in high regard - just last month it appointed Takashi Sensui as head of the newly formed Interactive Entertainment Business (IEB), leaving him to focus almost exclusively on Xbox 360. While reports at the time implied a lighter load for Sensui - his previous remit also covered Windows and Office software - perhaps the reshuffle was in recognition of the onerous task he faces to revive the console's ailing fortunes.

http://www.next-gen.biz/news/xbox-360-dead-japan

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Windows Phone 7 turned into Windows 7 controller, 3D mice put on notice

August 15th, 2011, 22:35 Posted By: wraggster

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Microsoft still 'confident' Xbox can be No.1 worldwide

August 16th, 2011, 22:42 Posted By: wraggster

Microsoft says its ambition is to transform Xbox 360 into the number one home console not just in Europe, but worldwide.

Speaking ahead of its GamesCom press event this afternoon, Microsoft Europe's interactive entertainment business VP, Chris Lewis, said the titles it has on show in Germany have made him confident the platform holder can achieve its goal.

"We've been very clear that our ambition is to be the number one console not only in Europe but worldwide, and looking at our line-up at GamesCom while knowing what's still in the pipeline, I'm confident we have the games and experiences to drive us toward that goal."

He added: "Consumers of all ages continue to be captivated and entertained by everything Xbox 360 and Kinect have to offer and our commitment to the core remains undeniable."

Microsoft's line-up in Cologne includes Halo: Combat Evolved, Gears of War 3, Forza Motorsport 4, Kinect Star Wars and Steel Battalion, among others.

The platform holder also confirmed that Double Fine's Trenched will finally be released in Europe under the name Iron Brigade.

http://www.computerandvideogames.com...no1-worldwide/

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x360ce SVN r439

August 17th, 2011, 01:15 Posted By: wraggster

via http://www.emucr.com/2011/08/x360ce-svn-r439.html

x360ce SVN r439 is released. Xbox 360 Controller Emulator (a wrapper library that translates the xinput calls to directinput calls) which allows your controller (GamePad, Joystick, Wheel, ...) to function like an Xbox 360 controller on a Windows PC. For example it allows you to play Grand Theft Auto (GTA) game with Logitech wheel.

x360ce SVN Changelog:
r439
* Added ANSI version of COM hooking
* Added option HookUseANSI under [InputHook] section of x360ce.ini to control
WMI hooking mode.

Download: Here

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New Xbox Dashboard video demos voice controls

August 17th, 2011, 22:46 Posted By: wraggster

Microsoft has released a video that shows off the new Xbox 360 dashboard update expected this autumn.
The video focuses on the firm's aim to make media navigation easy via the voice control technology in Kinect and the search capabilities of Bing on Xbox. It's also one of the few times the company has showed off the new-look menu system, which appears to scrap a lot of the fancy graphics for a more straight-to-the-point boxy format.

In an accompanying blog post, MS said, "At Microsoft, we believe there's also a shift underway in how consumers access and control this ever-growing avalanche of TV shows, sports programming, movies, online videos, video games, music and more. At E3, we dropped a few hints regarding how we plan to enhance and expand the entertainment options available to consumers."

It went on: "Our philosophy is pretty simple: All the entertainment you want, with the people you care about, made easy... This video brings that philosophy to life, while showing off what the combination of Xbox, Kinect, Bing and voice recognition can do for your entertainment experience.

"Thanks to Bing, Kinect and our voice recognition technology, we envision a future where the words "Hey, where's the remote?" are as outdated as eight-track tapes and rotary telephones."



MS recently updated it's the Xbox dashboard to incorporate PayPal support and compatibility with its new disc format among other things.http://www.computerandvideogames.com/315996/new-xbox-dashboard-video-demos-voice-controls/

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MS: Kinect can dominate Christmas again

August 17th, 2011, 22:57 Posted By: wraggster

Kinect can break records again this Christmas, with the help of big brands such as Disney and Star Wars.
That's according to Microsoft marketing director Michael Johnson, who reckons the 360 motion sensor can top the huge success of last Christmas.

He told CVG at GamesCom: "We think we can [top last Christmas] because this year what we're trying to do is a combination of continuing to innovate and have new things, plus big IP like Disney and Star Wars.

"By bringing in new entertainment properties it makes it so that we're not just going after the hardcore gamer - we have great games for them - but we're not just going after the broad customer either. We have a full range of experiences for the full range of customers.

"There could be a very near future where somebody buys an Xbox 360 just for entertainment - because using your voice to engage with entertainment is something that they want to have."

Pressed if Microsoft has more big brands in the pipeline for the motion sensor, Johnson replied simply, "yes".http://www.computerandvideogames.com/315984/ms-kinect-can-dominate-christmas-again/

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GC 2011: Xbox Live hits 35 million global users

August 19th, 2011, 01:25 Posted By: wraggster

Xbox Live has hit 35 million users globally, Xbox Live marketing manager Robin Burrowes has confirmed.
Speaking with Joystiq at Gamescom in Germany, Burrowes said: "Our audience growth is up to 35 million people globally across those 35 countries on Xbox Live itself."

Five million of those users jumped on board since last January, he said, adding that this rapid grows is in part thanks to the launching of Xbox Live in nine new countries in late 2010.

Burrores wouldn't be pushed into breaking down that number between Gold subscribers and free accounts, but he did say that MS earns "more revenue from the transaction space (XBLA, Avatars and other digital sales) than the subscription space."

Xbox Live has suffered a spat of issues recently, with a US user suing the firm for allegedly double billing for the service, and a recent glitch causing 1000s of points to be handed out for free.
http://www.computerandvideogames.com/316165/xbox-live-hits-35-million-global-users/

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Microsoft responds to claims of Japanese retailers phasing out 360

August 19th, 2011, 01:39 Posted By: wraggster

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GameStop's console game streaming in early beta

August 19th, 2011, 22:55 Posted By: wraggster

US retailer GameStop is currently beta testing the streaming of PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 games, with a plan to roll-out a consumer service by the middle of next year.
Earlier this year the company bought Spawn Labs, extending its peer-to-peer game streaming service into a cloud gaming offering, and promised "a wide selection of high-definition video games on demand on any internet-enabled device."
Yesterday it revealed that as well as PC game streaming, it is working with publishers to stream console games to smart devices as well as dedicated hardware via the Spawn software client.
"Spawn recently began its first beta and is currently live, testing the streaming of Xbox 360, PS3 and PC games from a data centre in Austin, Texas," confirmed GameStop president Tony Bartel.
The beauty of Spawn is it can take a very large assortment of games. There's really no restriction versus an Xbox 360 and PS3 game.

"We continue to get positive feedback from our publishing partners about the pro-console, low-investment model that we have chosen."
The closed beta will go national before the end of the year. At the beginning of 2012 GameStop is expected to reveal more details about the service and what it offers, along with a pricing model - and a nationwide launch is currently scheduled for the first half of 2012.
The Spawn client will be offered to GameStop's PowerUp Rewards members - currently 12 million customers - and feature a demo service which it's claimed will not require publishers to modify their games.
Cloud gaming technology from Gaikai and OnLive is already proving a viable business, offering PC games and demos over the internet with very little in the way of dedicated hardware beyond the right control method.
Behind closed doors these technologies have also shown format crossover such as World of Warcraft running on an iPad or console and full PC games launching from within Facebook.
And with the growth of Smart and connected TVs, both Gaikai and OnLive are dropping their technologydirectly into the hardware and consulting on dedicated controllers, taking streaming games straight to the consumer's living room - an area that GameStop is also interested in.
"Those conversations are taking place today," offered Bartel. "There's a whole cadre of services that GameStop can offer far beyond just Spawn. The beauty of Spawn is it can take a very large assortment of games. There's really no restriction versus an Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 game.
"We're also experimenting with PC game delivery as well, but we can take that to any Internet-connected device including TV. So clearly, it's part of our acquisition forethought. We anticipated being involved in smart TVs as well."

http://www.gamesindustry.biz/article...-in-early-beta

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Digital content leads revenue on Xbox Live

August 19th, 2011, 22:57 Posted By: wraggster

Xbox Live now generates more revenue from transactions than subscriptions, Joystiq reports.
Xbox Live EMEA marketing manager Robin Burrowes confirmed that digital content purhcases are now more lucrative for Microsoft than the Gold membership subscription fee.
Last month, Xbox Live Arcade portfolio director Chris Charla telling GamesIndustry.biz that the average price of a game on XBLA has "crept up", in definace of the "race to the bottom" evident on other digital services.
Burrowes also revealed that 5 million users have been added to Xbox Live since January, fuelled by the launch of the Xbox 360 in nine new countries in late 2010.
"Our audience growth is up to 35 million people globally across those 35 countries on Xbox Live itself," he said.
Burrowes declined to comment on the split between Gold and Silver members. However, in December last year, Microsoft Interactive Entertainment Division CEO Dennis Durkin claimed that, "Of our 25 million members, about half of them are subscribers."

http://www.gamesindustry.biz/article...e-on-xbox-live

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MS: Xbox 720 'could overlap' with 360's 10-year lifecycle

August 20th, 2011, 23:31 Posted By: wraggster

Microsoft has long spoken of its ten-year plan for Xbox 360, but that doesn't rule out a successor launching during the period, according to European Xbox boss Chris Lewis.

"We think we're a little over halfway with the life cycle of the console, but that's not to say there won't be an overlap," he told Metro. Xbox 360 launched in November 2005.

"I'm not going to announce specifically or talk about timing," he added. "But you could imagine there could be overlap, it depends. We're not being specific about the next generation at this stage. We're very fixated on what we're doing right now and the success we're enjoying."

Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot said last month he expects new consoles to launch "soon", while reports have suggested Xbox 360's successor will be unveiled at next year's E3.

http://www.computerandvideogames.com...ear-lifecycle/

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Cross-platform experience 'is better on Xbox' - Microsoft

August 20th, 2011, 23:34 Posted By: wraggster

Microsoft Europe Xbox chief Chris Lewis has said the company's working hard with publishing partners to make multiplatform games better on Xbox 360.

"[Exclusives] are important," he told Eurogamer. "DLC windows of exclusivity are critical for us for differentiation... Exclusive IP is critical. You'll see more of that over time. You'll also see us, though, committed to working with people like EA and Activision on their cross-platform consoles to make sure they play better, and they integrate better across PC, phone and the console in a way other people's just simply can't.

"We're also pretty confident the cross-platform experience is better on Xbox," he added. "We enjoy great success with Call of Duty. Live is the oxygen that runs through our business. The experience users have through Xbox Live is a fundamental differentiator for us versus other platforms. FIFA is another one. Certainly here in Europe football is a religion. Our ongoing commitment to experiencing better and playing better on Xbox is partly a function of what we do with Xbox Live."

Earlier this week, Lewis said he's confident Xbox 360 can be the No.1 console worldwide.

http://www.computerandvideogames.com...box-microsoft/

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Microsoft woos webOS developers with free phones, training

August 22nd, 2011, 16:45 Posted By: wraggster

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Xbox price drop not on the cards

August 22nd, 2011, 16:55 Posted By: wraggster

Consumers hoping to see an Xbox 360 price cut to counter the recent drops on PS3 look to be in for some disappointing news.
When asked by VG247 if Microsoft is preparing a hardware price drop of its own, European interactive entertainment VP Chris Lewis responded: “No.
“As you can imagine, we plan for these scenarios all the time. For me to sit here and say that was a big surprise would be a lie. Respect for what they do, of course. I love the competition, actually: it keeps us on our toes, and consumers benefit ultimately.
“We think we offer great value now. We have better service provision than anybody. We attach more effectively than anybody. I think Xbox Live’s enviable. What we’ve achieved with Kinect has given us growth that I think others would aspire to at this point in the lifecycle.
“We’re happy with our position. While we’re not complacent about the competition, I wouldn’t trade places.”
Though the consoles can be had for a range of prices on the UK High Street at the moment, typically the entry-level 4GB machine can be had for between £130 and £150.
This increases to approximately £180-£200 for the 250GB machine, £230-£250 for the 4GB Kinect bundle and £270-£300 for the top-of-the-range 250GB Kinect SKU.
By contrast, the entry-level 120GB PS3 now costs between £180-£200 and the 320GB between £240-£250.

http://www.mcvuk.com/news/read/xbox-...e-cards/083513

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XBOX CHART: Battlefield: Bad Company 2 storms to No.1

August 22nd, 2011, 22:01 Posted By: wraggster

Good Battlefield 3 press may behind a new lease of life for Battlefield: Bad Company 2 as the EA DICE shooter - which was released last year - jumps six places to take the No.1 spot on this week's official UK Xbox 360 sales chart.

Following at No.2 is last week's chart-topper Dirt 3, while Brink is up five spots to No.3 and FIFA 11 and Lego Pirates of the Caribbean round off the top five.

LA Noire drops one place to No.6, while the All Formats chart leader Zumba Fitness sits at No.7, ahead of Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood, which leaps from No.14 to No.8.

GfK/Chart-Track Xbox 360 Top 10 (week ending August 20):

01. Battlefield: Bad Company 2 (EA)
02. Dirt 3 (Codemasters)
03. Brink (Bethesda)
04. FIFA 11 (EA)
05. Lego Pirates of the Carribean (Disney)
06. LA Noire (Take 2)
07. Zumba Fitness (505 Games)
08. Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood (Ubisoft)
09. Call of Juarez: The Cartel (Ubisoft)
10. Skate 3 (EA)

http://www.computerandvideogames.com...storms-to-no1/

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Kinect lightsaber peripheral spotted

August 22nd, 2011, 23:19 Posted By: wraggster

Whatever your feelings about Kinect Star Wars, only the coldest of hearts could fail to be excited about this news.
Eurogamer reports that two German retailers have listed a lightsaber peripheral that is Kinect compatible and designed to work with Microsoft's upcoming Kinect Star Wars.
It is said to have a light effect but, strangely, not take any batteries. Prices are currently around the EURO 16 point.
Although the game will not require the use of a controller or accessory, as Kinect tracks a user's body there is in theory nothing to stop a user holding any object they like in their hands. A long, thin lightsaber like device is unlikely to hamper how the camera operates.
In most instances a superfluous accessory would be a nuisance, but in this instance? Yes, that's right. It will make the game one thousand per cent better.

http://www.mcvuk.com/news/read/kinec...spotted/083462

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Xbox app announcements "very soon

August 22nd, 2011, 23:28 Posted By: wraggster

Microsoft will announce the arrival of new apps for the Xbox 360 "very, very soon".
Last.fm, Facebook, Twitter and Sky are already part of the Xbox 360. YouTube with voice search through Bing is coming with the Christmas redesign of the dashboard.
More third-party applications are set to hit Xbox 360, Robin Burrowes, Xbox Live product marketing manager for EMEA [Europe, Middle East and Africa], told Eurogamer.
"We're working avidly to extend those entertainment partners," he said. "Nothing, unfortunately, to announce today.
"The announcement to be of more partners coming to the platform will give us that critical mass of content experiences.
"There will be announcements, so look out for those coming very, very soon indeed in terms of that space.
"The engine has been really built to cater to that additional amount of content."
One app rumoured to be coming to the Xbox 360 is Skype, which Microsoft bought for a whopping $8.5 billion in May.
Another is the BBC iPlayer, which the BBC wants on the Xbox 360, but only if it is available to all - not just Xbox Live Gold subscribers. The BBC iPlayer is currently available on the PlayStation 3 and the Nintendo Wii free of charge.
"We want to be on as many devices as possible," BBC general manager for programmes and on demand Daniel Danker said earlier this month.
"Of course we'd love to be on the Xbox because we want to get the iPlayer to as many licence payers as possible, which is pretty much everyone in the UK.
"We want to be on the cheapest level that you can have on Xbox, and not only for [Xbox Live] Gold subscribers."
In late 2009, a BBC source told The Telegraph: "Microsoft only wants to offer its users access to platforms it can charge for as this is the model it is pursuing.
"This does not fit with the BBC's model and Microsoft will not budge at the moment. It is really frustrating for those involved on the BBC side who want to make sure iPlayer is rolled out on as many popular entertainment platforms as possible."
On the issue of the BBC iPlayer coming to Xbox 360, Burrowes remained tight-lipped, but did say talks were ongoing.
"I can't talk about the specific nature of the deal," he said. "All I can say is there are a number of active discussions with a number of partners right now. We are talking to key partners at any given time in the UK.
"Our desire is to bring as many of them to the platform as we possibly can. But I can't talk about the specific nature of any deal. There are too many sensitivities in and around that. Unfortunately some of those sensitivities have spilled out in the past."
There are 35 million Xbox Live members across the world.

http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/20...ents-very-soon

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CMD Freebooter v1.2.3

August 22nd, 2011, 23:59 Posted By: wraggster

From the NFO/ReadMe:


Official Site: http://joomla.swizzy.se/kontakt
http://www.xbox-scene.com/xbox1data/...AlQkaFbawZ.php

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XePatch v1.0.0.122

August 23rd, 2011, 00:02 Posted By: wraggster

EatonZ released XePatch - a complete free/open-source patch editor that will let you edit compiled patches and compile new ones with ease.


Official Site/Download: http://eaton-works.com/xepatch
http://www.xbox-scene.com/xbox1data/...VkvUhGHDTm.php

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Pcsxr-xenon v0.5a

August 23rd, 2011, 10:52 Posted By: wraggster

Ced2911 released a PS1 emulator a few days ago (sry for the delay in posting) using the free/legal libxenon for homebrew/JTAG 360s:


Official Site: http://libxenon.org/

http://www.xbox-scene.com/xbox1data/...pEdHgqBMQd.php

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The official word on the glossy Xbox 360

August 23rd, 2011, 10:54 Posted By: wraggster

You may have heard last week that Microsoft is changing the outer finish of the Xbox 360 250GB consoles from a glossy black to a matte black finish, similar to the current Xbox 360 4GB model.

Some of the news outlets that covered it mentioned having a choice between matte and glossy Xbox 360s this holiday.

I wanted to set the record straight and let everyone know that that is not the case.

We are actively transitioning all our Xbox 360 S consoles to a matte finish. The consoles will start to arrive in stores over the coming weeks, so if you really love the idea of a glossy console don’t wait much longer.

Of course, we still may offer a gloss finish on Limited Edition consoles like the upcoming Gears of War 3 Console or the Star Wars Console, but if you have your eye on a glossy black console you don’t have much time left.

http://majornelson.com/2011/08/12/th...ossy-xbox-360/

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Microsoft demands simultaneous multiplatform releases

August 24th, 2011, 23:41 Posted By: wraggster

Microsoft reserves the right to refuse an Xbox 360 release for games that are released first on other platforms, according to reports.
Eurogamer reveals that Microsoft's developer terms also stipulate that the company may also refuse to allow an Xbox 360 release for games that offer more features or content on other platforms.
Microsoft's content submission and release policy reads: "Titles for Xbox 360 must ship at least simultaneously with other videogame platforms, and must have at least feature and content parity on-disc with other platform versions in all regions where the title is available.
"If these conditions are not met, Microsoft reserves the right to not allow the content to be released on Xbox 360."
The terms apply to Xbox Live Arcade games, too, with Microsoft's online content terms stipulating that games "must simultaneously release on Xbox Live Marketplace in all regions where the game is available." Demos, too, "must ship within the same week of its launch on other videogame platforms or via magazines."
Microsoft's vice president of interactive entertainment, Chris Lewis, defended the policy, saying: "We're a little biased, so obviously we're going to look to protect our own space as best we can and get exclusivity…we seek to maximise our own advantage to ensure the playing field is even, and certainly plays to our advantage wherever possible."
Lewis goes on to sound a familiar refrain by saying that the company's restrictive terms benefit its users. "Honestly - and this is going to sound a bit contrived - we just want what our consumers want from us," he said. "We want to be where they want us to be.
"We want the quality bar of what they experience from us to continue to go up. I think it has to happen; everybody's got to do that. If we want to continue to command healthy average selling prices, which we all do, that which we offer our consumers has got to keep getting better."
One publisher, speaking on condition of anonymity, strongly disagreed. "Microsoft is suggesting that anything but parity will result in them not carrying a title," the source said. "They may think this is competitive, but it's not. They are killing any creative exposure of titles to make up for their own platform's shortcomings."
While it is no secret that Microsoft demands exclusivity for Xbox Live Arcade games included in promotions like Summer Of Arcade, the news that it demands feature and release parity across the board is something of a surprise. The claim that it motivated by the needs of its consumers, too, seems a little odd, as it seems designed not to reward those who own Microsoft platforms so much as punish those that do not.

http://www.next-gen.biz/news/microso...tform-releases

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PS4, Xbox 720 needed now - Activision veteran

August 25th, 2011, 00:03 Posted By: wraggster

Innovative new hardware and software are needed to drive growth in the console market, according to Robin Kaminsky, Activision's former executive vice president of publishing.

Writing in an opinion piece for IndustryGamers, she said today's traditional games market "is in trouble", pointing to US industry sales in July, which were the lowest on record since October 2006. "Many believe digital sales and the economy are the core drives of the decline. I believe a lack of innovation - actual stagnation in game development - is the real culprit," Kaminsky wrote.

"For traditional games to grow, I believe a new generation of consoles is needed, consoles with real innovation and the resulting onslaught of new IP and innovative gameplay. Ideally these consoles will bring a breakthrough on how games are played or what kind of game experience can be delivered.

"It cannot be just bigger, more complex games or yet higher definition graphics," she added. "The industry, both traditional publishers and the console makers themselves, need something different in the next cycle... In an industry where new, innovative and fun is key there is no future in more of the same."

Kaminsky, who previously oversaw all studio and product development at Activision, went on to outline her hopes for the next generation.

"The next generation of consoles and games should recognize that consumers are mobile and active, value the player regardless of where and when they play, consider short and long play sessions, optimize both hardcore and casual games, embrace button/controller led play and new interfaces, enable content to evolve so games are dynamic not static, encourage alternative payment approaches like free to play, that drive more users to try the game, alongside the traditional buy it to play model, drive increasingly social and community driven experiences, and perhaps even allow play across devices regardless of manufacturer or form factor."

Last month, Kaminsky and former SCE Worldwide Studios boss Phil Harrison joined the board of Dave Perry's cloud-based game streaming service Gaikai.

http://www.computerandvideogames.com...ision-veteran/

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Kinect-controlled delta robot has a magnetic personality

August 25th, 2011, 00:08 Posted By: wraggster


[Malte] is a loyal Hackaday reader and neurobiology PhD candidate with a keen interest in hobby robotics – definitely our kind of guy! He wrote in to share a project he has been working on in his spare time, a Kinect-controlled delta robot (Google translation).
Deltares, as it is called, is pretty straightforward as far as delta robots are concerned. It uses three servos to actuate the arms, which are controlled by an AVR micro running BASCOM. The AVR gets its coordinate data from his computer via a serial connection after it has been captured by the Kinect. [Malte] opted to use Microsoft’s official SDK for the project, processing the Kinect skeletal data using a small C# application he wrote.
The end result is pretty neat as you can see in the pair of videos below. In the first video, [Malte] uses Deltares as a plotter, drawing a crude face on a piece of paper with a marker. In the second, he commands Deltares with his right hand, using his left to activate the magnetic solenoid to pick up the steel spheres.
It looks pretty cool to us, and we’d love to see what sorts of things he puts together if he ever ends up making robotics his career rather than a hobby.

http://hackaday.com/2011/08/23/kinec...c-personality/

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Xbox 250GB bundle throws in Alan Wake, Gears 2, and 3 more [update: Canada only]

August 25th, 2011, 00:12 Posted By: wraggster

Reader Darren Christie tweeted a rather official-looking image of a new Xbox 360 bundle. According to the picture, taken at the Future Shop store in which Christie works, the new package includes a 250GB Xbox 360 console and download codes for five of its biggest games: Alan Wake, Halo 3, Halo Wars, Fable 3, and Gears of War 2. In addition to being big in terms of profile, they're also big in terms of file size, with the box warning that these games will occupy 29.51 GB on the hard drive.

Christie told us that the bundle will be released tomorrow for $299.99. He is located in Canada, so it's possible this hardware package is a Canadian-only promotion. We've checked in with Microsoft to get the details. Just to be safe, maybe you should wait a day or so before buying an Xbox.

Update: Shacknews received confirmation from Microsoft that this bundle is exclusive to Canada, out tomorrow, and available for a limited time.http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/24/xbox-250gb-bundle-throws-in-alan-wake-gears-2-and-3-more/

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Microsoft goes for broke in Japan with Xbox 360 Monster Hunter bundle

August 25th, 2011, 00:14 Posted By: wraggster

All right, so the Xbox is kind of tanking in Japan, and has been since day one. Microsoft has introduced a new bundle that seems custom-designed for reclaiming the shelf space that retailers have reportedly been taking away from the platform: one with the Monster Hunter Frontier logo on it.

The 29,800 yen ($389) bundle includes a 250GB Xbox 360, a download code forMonster Hunter Frontier Online, and free armor and weapons. Here's where it gets rough: the code allows you to play until hunter rank 2, so ... it's really more of a demo. Still, there will be people who buy this whole thing (which costs the same as a plain 250GB Xbox) just for the in-game items.http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/24/microsoft-goes-for-broke-in-japan-with-xbox-360-monster-hunter-b/

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XEPATCH editor EatonWork

August 26th, 2011, 01:41 Posted By: wraggster

XePatch is a full patch editor that allows you to edit and compile-compile patches with ease. XePatch Eaton Work is a free and open source. Features Navigation-Simple GUI. A-compiled full patch editor. It allows you to edit the existing patches, add new patches and fixes to remove existing ones. Dashlaunch. Supports Patch-v1 and v2 -Support FreeBoot patches and all patch locations. - Validation characteristics of all text fields to make sure you do not enter data or invalid addresses. Distributed with a Compiler-xenon PPC assembly. Requires: The FULL version of. NET Framework v4.0.

http://x360.gx-mod.com/modules/news/...p?storyid=3497

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Valve wants Counter Strike Steamworks integration on XBL

August 26th, 2011, 23:58 Posted By: wraggster

Valve boss Gabe Newell wants Steamworks integration built into the Xbox version of Counter Strike: Global Offensive, but has said that Microsoft must relax its restrictions on the service first.
Steamworks integration, including PC/PS3 cross-platform play, was included in the PS3 version of Valve's last game, Portal 2, but was absent from the Xbox version. Newell believes that Microsoft's acceptance of Steamworks is vital to achieve platform parity with future valve games.
"We certainly can deliver a lot of value to customers to the degree to which we have those capabilities," Newell told Eurogamer.
"The PS3, obviously we made a lot more progress with that. The PS3 customers of Portal 2 are going to start to see the benefits of that with Portal 2 DLC coming out in September. So we'd really like to be able to do that for Xbox customers as well."
Whilst the initial debut of Steamworks on console was marred by the hacking scandal which brought the PlayStation Network to its knees on the day of Portal 2's release, Newell is confident that it improves customer experience.
"The main thing is having Microsoft get comfortable with it and let us do it," Newell explained.
"Right now, there's a huge amount of updates and free content we've been able to deliver to people who have The Orange Box that we haven't been able to deliver to the Xbox because of the restrictions that have been placed on us on Xbox Live.
"We'd love to see those relaxed. Other developers on the PS3 are starting to benefit from Sony's more open approach. Hopefully that will help Microsoft see that's a good strategy for making customers happy, that the barbarians won't tear down the walls of Xbox and turn it into some chaotic wasteland."
One possible motivation for Valve is trying to engage customers with its fledgling microtransaction store, powered by the proprietary Steam Wallet. It is this system which Valve has been using to monetise the now free-to-play Team Fortress 2 on PC, allowing player trading and store-bought purchases. Whether the company has a similar model in mind for Counter Strike is unclear, but Sony has already set a precedent for free-to-play titles with its exclusive EVE Online tie-in from CCP, Dust 514.
"Let's just say that with Sony at least they have policies that allow us to build the game the way we want," CCP CTO Halldor Fannar told E3 in June. "That is one of the reasons why we've gone with PSN.
"Sony allows us to use our systems. Microsoft has Xbox Live. They're very strict on that. There are a lot of issues we run into. It may be a basic thing people don't realise, but with Dust and Eve on Sony's network, we can allow them to chat together. Voice chat, text chat, that's all one world.
"One of the reasons for the partnership with Sony is because they're opening up new ways to do these things. We're going to be managing most of it. We're using PlayStation just for credentials, stuff like that. Then it's all our stuff.
"With our agreement with Sony they seem to be fine with our three month expansion cycle. They've been looking at the MMO space for a while, trying to understand why something like that hasn't still happened on the console. They're coming to terms with it. There are certain things they have to relax just to allow these things to function."
Counter Strike: Global Offensive will be playable to the public for the first time in Europe at theEurogamer Expo at Earls Court in London, 22-25 September, 2011.

http://www.gamesindustry.biz/article...gration-on-xbl

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'Blockbusters and bundles will take Xbox 360 to No.1'

August 27th, 2011, 00:15 Posted By: wraggster

New bundle deals and one of its strongest Q4 line-ups will make Xbox 360 the best selling console in Europe, Microsoft told MCV.
The firm has dismissed the need to follow Nintendo and Sony by reducing Xbox 360’s price or developing new-look hardware. The platform holder says its line-up of games – including Gears of War 3, Forza 4 and Halo: Anniversary – will realise its dream of being No.1 across Europe
“We certainly think the line-up is strong, and we will continue to partner and work with key retailers across Europe to drive the right value for the right package for the right time,” Robin Burrowes, Xbox LIVE marketing manager for EMEA, told MCV.
“We have done that historically, where we do a number of bundles and deals. Those sort of bundles and deals will be part of how we get to that No.1 position.
“We are also pretty bullish about getting to that No.1 position on the strength of our blockbuster games, with things we are launching like Gears and Forza.“
And we are working really closely with a number of third-party publishers on games such as Modern Warfare 3, FIFA 12 and Battlefield 3. These big, big titles are coming in the next few months. There’s certainly going to be a lot of attention in that traditional space.
“Then we look at the second wave of Kinect titles, like Kinect Sports 2 and Dance Central 2.
“Selfishly from an Xbox Live point of view, a lot of those Kinect games have far better Xbox Live capabilities. It all gives us a strong sense of confidence that we can get to that No.1 position.”

http://www.mcvuk.com/news/read/block...to-no-1/083807

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New Gamestation site launches with £99 Xbox 360

August 27th, 2011, 00:20 Posted By: wraggster

The new-look Gamestation.co.uk and GAME.co.uk websites are now live.
And furthermore, the retailer is celebrating the arrival of the new Gamestation look with a string of offers, the leading one of which is the chance to grab a 250GB Xbox 360 for just £100.
At the time of writing the machine is still showing up at £179.99 when put into the basket, but the site says that prices will “change randomly throughout the day”.
A host of community features have been added to the site, including the chance to earn ‘Accolades’ for fulfilling certain tasks. There’s also the chance to interact with other gamers and to review games.
Click & Collect is now also possible and users are able to link their Gamestation Elite cards to their site profile.
“For months we've been busy building a site that you can be proud of, built for gamers and built by gamers,” the blurb reads. “You've seen the basics, but now everything is in place and it's ready for you to call your own. We've got some killer deals to celebrate the official launch and they're just for you.
“So check out the official launch of Gamestation.co.uk where you'll find the best games at great prices but also, you'll be able to talk to gamers from around the world in our your community.”

http://www.mcvuk.com/news/read/new-g...box-360/083803

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Xbox 360's ESPN3 app updated with more voice control, split screen and more

August 27th, 2011, 00:58 Posted By: wraggster

The PlayStation 3 may have NFL Sunday Ticket but the Xbox 360 still has exclusive access to ESPN3'sslate of games, shows and replays, and today the app was updated with a new look and a few new features. Viewers can designate their favorite sports and teams to bring related content right to the front, while a new mini-guide gives easy access to other streams while you watch. If you're trying to keep track of more than one game there's also support for split screen viewing (with independent control of each stream) and upgraded voice control for Kinect owners. Other tweaks include a college football scoreboard to keep track of all the games at once, reminders, live alerts on score changes and the addition of ESPN's BottomLine. Unchanged is the restriction that you need to subscribe to a TV provider that includes ESPN3 in its package, but if you do have the service (and shell out for XBL, of course) it should be available the next time you load up your console. http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/25/x...ol-split-scre/

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xK3y Finally in Production

August 27th, 2011, 11:37 Posted By: wraggster

From xk3y.com:


Official Site: http://xk3y.com

http://www.xbox-scene.com/xbox1data/...kVlrWwOfjj.php

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Firmware 1.92 Lt More Liteon Slim approaching

August 27th, 2011, 15:08 Posted By: wraggster

c4eva had indicated on their IRC channel as the Lite Touch Plus 1.92 firmware was over. Remember that this new firmware is for all the liteon slim, including the new liteon 1071. C4E also indicates that the current tests are going very well and no problems were experienced at the moment, the release is very close to his opinion. To return to this new firmware, it still does not know what it is actually intended. Some say he should be able to correct reading errors such as "play DVD" that some people have continued to see their flash liteon slim. However nothing is on about this, and the alliance c4eva said nothing so necessary a wait & see ... Source: http://c4evaspeaks.com

http://x360.gx-mod.com/modules/news/...p?storyid=3502

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The LiteOn 1071 with chip + Mxic progress on Hitachi 0500

August 27th, 2011, 15:17 Posted By: wraggster

Team Xecuter has just indicated that according to their follow-up, new Xbox S produced and sold in the United States have two types of readers, a liteon 1071 drive is a Hitachi 0500.! Nothing is more relevant in this ad but it appears that 'Fortunately for the stage, the new liteon 1071 almost all (90%) of the chip and not MXIC Winbond! Something confirmed by Ubergeek, and Podger Xecuter team of jungle. That's not all because, according to Podger new liteon 1071 have a new lens with new calibration data in the firmware 1071, when the PCB is the same to him. So good news if future readers all have MXIC chip. Indeed, it will avoid the troubles of the method "Unlock bomber" makes more and more havoc especially with the scarcity of replacement PCB. The results of this method are very random and unexpected (DVD read error, error opening drive after a few days of operation, drawer "paralyzed" as well readers dead ...) The Team Xecuter also said that the alliance had made progress with the Hitachi 0500 drive, without giving details.
http://x360.gx-mod.com/modules/news/...p?storyid=3506

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Microsoft confirms 3D support in Halo: CE remake for Xbox 360

August 29th, 2011, 00:52 Posted By: wraggster

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The Xbox 360 reset glitch hack - New Homebrew Hack!

August 29th, 2011, 12:22 Posted By: wraggster

GliGli released a new hack to boot the Xbox360 into XeLL and thus run homebrew software on your console. It's is compatible with ALL dashboard version and ALL Slim and Fat (expect Xenon, Falcon support will follow later) models and is unpatchable via software updates by Microsoft.

From the readme/nfo:


Official Site: github.com/gligli

http://www.xbox-scene.com/xbox1data/...AZFwExdkbZ.php

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XeLL Reloaded 28/08/2011 '2Stages'

August 29th, 2011, 12:25 Posted By: wraggster

Cancerous, [cOz], Ced2911, GliGli, RedLine99 and Tuxuser are proud to release today the first official version of XeLL-Reloaded (Codename: 2Stages) following the release of the new homebrew Xbox 360 reset glitch hack:


Official Site/Download: libxenon.org
http://www.xbox-scene.com/xbox1data/...llZLoqgfiJ.php

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ECC Glitch Generator v1.0

August 29th, 2011, 12:27 Posted By: wraggster

BestPig released a new utility for the new homebrew Xbox 360 reset glitch hack to easily generate an ECC file:


http://www.xbox-scene.com/xbox1data/...FkgpGjakwf.php

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FFplay Xbox360 - Homebrew Media Player

August 29th, 2011, 12:28 Posted By: wraggster

Welcome to our release of FFPlay. From Cancerous and JQE
This is using FFmpeg libraries from http:\\ffmpeg.org as ported by Ced2911 This is using SDL as ported by Lantus
This should play allmost all 720p videos. 1080p IS UNSTABLE please don't report it we know about i.

INFO FOR USERS:
A brings up a menu, rewind, Fast Forward, Stop, Play, Pause.
NOTE: Fast Forward, and Rewind might be unstable. It is know and we are working on it.

NOW we have our people to thank.
cOz helped with some coding and solved a issue with running it on JTAGS
Thanks to testers: Blackwolf, JPizzle, Mattie, Razkar, and Trajik.
Thanks for direction and assistance: MaesterRo, Anthony, And node21
Thanks for the libraries Ced2911 and Lantus
Official Site: http://code.google.com/p/ffplay360/

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x360ce SVN r443

August 29th, 2011, 19:00 Posted By: wraggster

via http://www.emucr.com/

x360ce SVN r443 is released. Xbox 360 Controller Emulator (a wrapper library that translates the xinput calls to directinput calls) which allows your controller (GamePad, Joystick, Wheel, ...) to function like an Xbox 360 controller on a Windows PC. For example it allows you to play Grand Theft Auto (GTA) game with Logitech wheel.

x360ce SVN Changelog:
r442
Revert parts of r440 (minIni is broken for Unicode ...)
Fix value trimming.
r443
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Download: x360ce SVN r443 x86
Download: x360ce SVN r443 x64

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NestopiaX v1.3

August 29th, 2011, 20:10 Posted By: wraggster

via http://www.emucr.com/

NestopiaX v1.3 is released. NestopiaX is a NES emulator for the XBOX. This is a port of the pc NES emu nestopia and is now the best NES emu on XBOX. It also plays the famicom disc system games at full framerate.

New in this release:


Support for R.O.B the robot emulation via xbox controller has been implemented into this
version of nestopiax!!!.

When playing gyromite or stack up simply go into controller options, then general settings
and change controller 2 type to R.O.B the robot and leave controller 1 as gamepad.

The controls are as follows for gyromite:

Start, then a will raise and lower the blue columns
Start, then b will raise and lower the red columns.

a flash will follow after performing these actions, this is normal, the nes "flashed"
this information back to rob when performing those controller actions to simulate the movements
needed to play gyromite correctly with him.

as for Stack up, thats a diff beast since this game relied on colored blocks stacked up on
rob to play. but either way both of these games are now supported via R.O.B the robot
emulation.


NEStopiaX has now been implemented with "Pixel Perfect" options in the Main Menu and
in-game menu while playing a game. It can be found in Video Options in the newly named "Adjust Screen/Pixel Perfect Options"

you will be faced with three choices, hit x for perfect pixel, y to reset the screen back to default
and b to exit after making your choice.


Other small changes in this release are minimal and only include small changing of the wording in the emulator menu. nothing special,
things like Vs. Coin 1 and 2 were simply changed to "Insert Vs. Coin 1" Insert Vs. Coin 2.

Enjoy~!

Huge thanks to +T+ for all the help with the pixel perfect settings~!



will there be more nestopiax's in the future? You bet!

There's even more down the road!


Download: NestopiaX v1.3

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Walmart 'rollback' of Xbox 360 4GB Kinect bundle to $249

August 29th, 2011, 22:22 Posted By: wraggster

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The "Season Pass" Fashionable Scam or Not?

August 30th, 2011, 12:37 Posted By: wraggster

The "Season Pass" became fashionable after the "Rockstar pass" LA Noire is the turn of Gears of War 3! Season Pass? Kesako? Subject Mspoints 2400 (€ 30) you can get the first four DLCs of the game at a discount of 33%. If you do not pass the first 4 Season DLC will cost approximately 3600MSpoint either (~ € 45).

In summary if you decide to buy all the DLC for the game that you do not know in advance, either in content or quality, Take Season Pass to benefit from the reduction of 33% and have the weapon "liquid metal "as a gift (see picture above)
the Pass will be available September 20, the content will be released in November. Pass Without the DLC you pay one by one, at full price. Thurs 45 € 70 € = DLC is € 115 for the standard edition of the game with the first 4 DLC. The DLC is an extension of: single-player campaign, multiplayer and Horde. Gx-Mod Epic Games.

http://x360.gx-mod.com/modules/news/...p?storyid=3512

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The Ban Console resurface.

August 30th, 2011, 12:39 Posted By: wraggster

Bans modified consoles surfacing, this is what we read on various forums, including that of team members or Xecuter begin mass coming reporting ban consoles. For now we can see that many Xbox Slim with FW of LT +1.91 affected, readers of these have been released by the method of suicide bomber or the Russians "Sptunik" we do not know if a causal relationship with certainty but for now they are the most reported, although Phat are also concerned there is less ski on them. the exiles from China, Chile, Spain, England, the States .... Everywhere in fact. Between the ban started in profile and there is little a priori ban the console starts, Microsoft has decided to sweep the board before the release of the big hits year-end. Regarding any of the consoles marked ski xval indicate if the console was clean or not before the ban.

http://x360.gx-mod.com/modules/news/...p?storyid=3513

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Child Of Eden bundled with Kinect

August 31st, 2011, 00:26 Posted By: wraggster

Microsoft has announced plans to bundle a downloadable copy of Tetsuya Mizuguchi’s musical shooter Child Of Eden with the current Kinect hardware offering, which includes Kinect Adventures. Launching in all Xbox Live regions excluding Japan, where Child Of Eden has yet to be released, the new bundle will begin appearing in stores next week for the same price as the existing one, “available in limited quantities and while supplies last”. While Child Of Eden is also playable with a traditional Xbox 360 controller, it is widely regarded as a highlight of Kinect’s software line-up. Our review, which you can read through the link below, labelled the game “a convincing example of how motion control can breathe new life into a niche genre” and, “more than that, a masterclass in audio design and the emotive power of CG imagery

http://www.next-gen.biz/news/child-eden-bundled-kinect

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Gears of War 3 is 'fastest ever pre-selling Xbox exclusive'

August 31st, 2011, 01:03 Posted By: wraggster

Epic Games has big aspirations for Gears of War 3 and already the sequel's breaking records, with Microsoft confirming 1.3 million pre-orders.

According to the platform holder, the number makes Gears 3 officially the fastest pre-selling Xbox exclusive in the history of the platform.

The news arrived alongside the announcement of the Gears of War 3 season pass, a 2400 MS Point (£20, $30) purchase that delivers fans four DLC packs with an overall 33 per cent discount.

The Season Pass will be purchasable from launch on September 20.

Time to get excited. A recently-released video shows the game's intro which tells the Gears of War story so far,

http://www.computerandvideogames.com...box-exclusive/

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XBOX CHART: Black Ops makes storming comeback

August 31st, 2011, 02:09 Posted By: wraggster

Treyarch's Call Of Duty: Black Ops has enjoyed a spectacular boost in the official weekly UK Xbox 360 chart following recent price promotions and the release of the Rezurrection map.
The title leaps 14 places to No.3 on this week's list, only being pipped by new entries Rugby World Cup 2011 in No.2 and Deus Ex: Human Revolution in top spot.

Check out the full gFk-ChartTrack / UKIE Xbox chart below for the week ending August 27.

Deus Ex also this morning took top spot in theofficial All Formats UK games chart.

1) DEUS EX: HUMAN REVOLUTION (Square Enix)
2) RUGBY WORLD CUP 2011 (505 Games)
3) CALL OF DUTY: BLACK OPS (Activision)
4) DIRT 3 (Codemasters)
5) ASSASSIN'S CREED: BROTHERHOOD (Ubisoft)
6) BRINK (Bethesda)
7) LEGO PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN (Disney)
8) BATTLEFIELD: BAD COMPANY 2 (EA)
9) ZUMBA FITNESS (505 Games)
10) CALL OF JUAREZ: THE CARTEL (Ubisoft)
11) HALO: REACH (Microsoft)
12) FIFA 11 (EA)
13) RED DEAD REDEMPTION (Rockstar)
14) HOMEFRONT (THQ)
15) L.A. NOIRE (Rockstar)
16) SKATE 3 (EA)
17) UFC PERSONAL TRAINER (THQ)
18) KINECT SPORTS (Microsoft)
19) LEGO STAR WARS III: THE CLONE WARS (LucasArts)
20) PORTAL 2 (EA)http://www.computerandvideogames.com/317173/xbox-chart-black-ops-makes-storming-comeback/

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Chihiro arcade games running on 128mb RAM modded Xboxes

August 31st, 2011, 12:06 Posted By: wraggster

The guys over at Assemblergames and Emuxtras have figured out a way to run Chihiro arcade games on modchipped/softmodded Xboxes with the extra 128mb mod, sadly the standard xboxes only came with 64mb ram so these games do boot on those but they seem to crash after entering the menu (this is the case with Virtua Cop 3 at least.) The cool thing is that the chihiro is soo similar to the xbox so Virtua Cop 3 even works with the xbox lightgun!. .

http://www.eurasia.nu/modules.php?na...ticle&sid=2846

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MS: New dashboard not just for Kinect users

August 31st, 2011, 23:19 Posted By: wraggster

Although clearly conceptualised with Kinect in mind, this autumn's redesigned Xbox 360 dashboard update will improve the experience for regular controller users too, Microsoft has said.
That's according to Xbox Live's senior director Jose Pinero, who told CVG in a recent interview the new backend is a "happy medium" of motion sensor and controller functionality.

Asked if the new Dashboard will improve the Xbox experience for controller-only users, Pinero replied:

"Yes. Anecdotally, before I came here I was showing it to my wife and she was like, 'oh, that's a lot easier'. We can't make it too easy for people, so we made it easier for someone who's not a gamer or a tech enthusiast and then it'll be easier for the gamer too."

He added: "I think it's a pretty happy medium and that's been our goal since the launch of Kinect, to make sure we're creating great content like Star Wars, Sports and great family content, but also making sure we're not losing the Gears of War, Halo and Call of Duty fans that really built the Xbox brand.

"So making sure we've got great content for both audiences in a combined platform is a big challenge. I think the new dashboard is still super-fast to navigate around."

Microsoft's official philosophy for the new dash is "all the entertainment you want, with the people you care about, made easy." See it in action here.

http://www.computerandvideogames.com...-kinect-users/

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Xbox 360 getting official 3D update - report

August 31st, 2011, 23:24 Posted By: wraggster

Microsoft is to release a 3D-related Xbox 360 update "most likely via Xbox Live in the coming days".

That's according to a report on msxbox-world.com, which says the update will arrive shortly ahead of the release of a host of new 3D capable games including Gears of War 3, Batman: Arkham City and Halo Combat Evolved Anniversary.

The site's carrying a picture of an option on the Xbox 360 dashboard which reads: "Enable 3D to use stereoscopic 3D in games and experiences that support it." Could the word "experiences" hint at wider 3D support for media services like Sky and Netflix?

The update is also said to introduce a setting which will detect TV size or allow users to input the size manually. We've left a message with Microsoft for comment.

http://www.computerandvideogames.com...update-report/

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Xbox 360 modders claim CPU hack, make it party like an N64

August 31st, 2011, 23:34 Posted By: wraggster

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Get $75 credit with purchase of 250GB Xbox 360 today

August 31st, 2011, 23:38 Posted By: wraggster

Amazon's Video Game Deal of the Day kind of comes with other deals built-in. The retailer is bundling a $75 credit with sales of the 250GB Xbox 360 hardware bundle, which is priced at $300. So, by buying this, you instantly get at least one free game to go with it.

Unless, of course, you choose to use that credit in other ways -- that's up to you. Maybe you want to buy a bunch of Microsoft Points. That works! Or maybe you want to wait on the whole Xbox 360 game thing for a while, just watch Netflix on the console, and buy $75 worth of Cyber Clean to make a horrific lint-eating blob. Totally your call.

http://www.amazon.com/Cyber-Clean-25...4810726&sr=8-1

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