Call Of Duty boosts digital growth at Activision

September 1st, 2011, 23:11 Posted By: wraggster

Activision has reported a significant increase in digital revenues for the 12 months ended June 2012, driven in part by the increasingly popular Call Of Duty franchise. Speaking during a conference call with analysts today, which was listened in on by Gamasutra, Activision Publishing CEO Eric Hirschberg said the firm’s online revenues reached $1.7 billion during the period. The figure represents a 22 per cent year-over-year increase from $1.4 billion, and a 41 per cent rise from the $1.2 billion generated during the year ended June 2009. Hirschberg said the publisher has sold 18 million $15 Black Ops map packs to a still growing base of 23 million Black Ops owners. In comparison, Activision shifted 11 million $15 map packs to Modern Warfare 2’s 19 million owners, and nine million $10 map packs to World at War’s nine million


http://www.next-gen.biz/news/call-du...wth-activision

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PS3 to outsell 360 at Christmas unless MS cuts price - analyst

September 2nd, 2011, 00:50 Posted By: wraggster

While Xbox 360 has comfortably outsold PS3 in the US throughout 2011, the recent price cut for Sony's console is having a marked effect, and analyst Michael Pachter reckons Microsoft will have to react if its system is to hold the No.1 position this Christmas.
He told IndustryGamers the battle between the two high-definition consoles will be a "close call" this holiday season, but predicted: "If Microsoft does nothing, I think PS3 will outsell Xbox 360.

"However, my friends at Microsoft are extremely proud, and they absolutely refuse to tolerate the possibility that the PS3 will outsell the Xbox 360. I think they have the ads printed for the Xbox 360 price cut, and will drop them on us the instant they see PS3 sales greater than 360 sales.

"In the meantime," he added, "I think we'll see a reduction in the price of the Xbox 360/Kinect bundles (similar to Wal-Mart's "goof" last weekend), and Microsoft will use that to keep the PS3 at bay until they decide whether to match price for the console only."

In Europe at least, Microsoft said last week it's confident that a range of upcoming Xbox 360 games and bundles will be enough to help the console gain the No.1 position.

Starting next week, the Xbox maker will be adding a downloadable copy of Child of Eden to its existing Kinect hardware offering in all Xbox Live territories apart from Japan.

http://www.computerandvideogames.com...price-analyst/

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New MW3 Xbox 360 revealed

September 3rd, 2011, 22:44 Posted By: wraggster

Activision has teamed up with Microsoft to create a special Xbox 360 bundle for the launch of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3.
The package includes a MW3-branded Xbox 360 console with a 320GB hard drive. Not only is the console designed to match the game’s battleworn theme, it also emits a sound from one of the game’s weapons.
Also included from in the bundle will be a copy of the game and two branded controllers. A MW3-themed Bluetooth headset will be available separately.
The new console will be released alongside Modern Warfare 3 on November 8th.

http://www.mcvuk.com/news/read/new-m...evealed/084154

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68% of Xbox subs bought at retail

September 3rd, 2011, 22:49 Posted By: wraggster

The High Street can play a major part in selling digital games, and Microsoft has the proof.
Two thirds of Xbox Live Gold members paid for their subscriptions via traditional retailers, the platform holder told MCV.
It highlights the extent to which retail has played a major role in growing Xbox Live, and Microsoft is working on a number of new initiatives to help stores get a slice of its digital revenue.
The firm added it has no plans to release full game downloads at the same time as their boxed counterparts, out of respect for retail. It is in contrast to Sony, which revealed earlier this year that PlayStation Vita games will be released digitally and in a box at the same time.
“There are no plans in terms of that kind of day and date parity,” said Xbox Live marketing manager for EMEA Robin Burrowes. "We are very respectful of the retail environment, in that we have a window between the release of a retail game and the digital one. There’s no immediate plans to change that.
“We are continuing to talk to retail in different ways. We are looking to introduce new digital innovations to drive more business. We’ve been testing electronic software distribution in a couple of places. We will be testing point-of-sale activation, which is similar to buying cards in store and being able to redeem that code at the point of purchase. We are introducing new digital tokens and are working very closely with retailers. 68 per cent of Europe’s Xbox Live subscription acquisitions come from retail.”
The firm is also more active in bundling DLC and XBLA games with retail releases – such as Fruit Ninja Kinect being included with upcoming Kinect game The Gunstringer.
Added Burrowes: “For certain Kinect games out this Christmas there will be codes included. Sometimes we will be doing: buy a subscription card and get some points which can redeemed against movies or games. We are continuing to innovate that.”

http://www.mcvuk.com/news/read/68-of...-retail/084140

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Sony attacks Xbox 360 content policy

September 4th, 2011, 11:57 Posted By: wraggster

Sony has accused Microsoft of "protecting inferior technology", following its admission last week that it reserves the right to deny games an Xbox Live Arcade release if they launch on PSN first.
Speaking in an interview with IndustryGamers, Sony's senior VP of publisher relations Rob Dyer argued that Microsoft's content submission and release policy stands in the way of innovation by denying multi-platform developers the right to exploit the PlayStation 3's high-end features.
"I think what [Xbox Europe boss] Chris [Lewis] and the other representatives at Microsoft are doing is protecting an inferior technology," he explained.
"I think they want to dumb it down and keep it as pedestrian as possible so that if you want to do anything for Blu-ray, or you have extra content above 9GB, or you want to do anything of that nature, you'd better sure as heck remember that Microsoft can't handle that."
Microsoft's third party guidelines dictate that all games released on the Xbox 360 must launch "at least simultaneously" with other systems and must have "at least" the same features and content. It reserves the right to block release if those guidelines aren't met.
"That's a huge problem with them," continued Dyer.
"It first started on the smaller pubs, and we can talk about what's happened on XBL and the policy they have there that requires publishers to have a whole litany of things in order to get onto their network or they have to go through and be published by Xbox, by Microsoft, which essentially lets them dictate how long they'll be exclusive and whether or not they own the IP, etc, etc.
"We don't do that. We don't have any kind of policy like that.
"In fact, we've gone the other way to try and encourage publishers through our Pub Fund... We want to welcome the indies and we've seen that become a very big part of our business because indies are recognising that we aren't demanding a pound of flesh in order for them to get a game published on our network."
According to Dyer, it's a problem that extends to AAA developers as well as indies.
"It's now progressed to not just be these smaller indie pubs that are obviously very easy to kick around. It's moved up the food chain. It's gone to B and A level publishers," he said.
"So potentially any time we've gone out and negotiated exclusive content of things that we've announced at things like DPS or E3, publishers are getting the living crap kicked out of them by Microsoft because they are doing something for the consumer that is better on our platform than it might be perceived on theirs.
"So from a creativity standpoint and what we are doing to try to make it better for the consumer, our view is Microsoft's doing everything they can to eliminate that because they have an inferior technology."
While Dyer appreciates why Microsoft holds to its policy, he suggested that ultimately it's the consumer that is losing out, as they're being denied potentially innovative content.
"I just wanted to make it clear from Chris Lewis' comment last week and the fact that he's saying, 'Well, this is great for consumers,' and that they're going to protect their consumers. I think that that is an admirable stance to take.
"That being said, while they might be protecting their consumers, what are they protecting them from? And what it looks like they're protecting them from is the ability to see great content show up on a superior technology.
"The problem we're having right now is these threats and these serious issues that Microsoft is throwing at publishers - it's only going to dumb down what could potentially come out for a number of these games.
"And whether people are willing to stand up to Microsoft on this stuff or not is up to that publisher and they do it at their own risk."
Elsewhere in the interview he singled out Sony's partnerships with Valve and Dust 514 developer CCP as examples of where it is attempting to open things up.
"I can't wait to see what's happening on Counter-Strike. We're working with them on that. I think we're going to have some really cool things. We're pumped up. We're also very pumped up in working with guys like CCP as a matter of fact to try and be more inclusive rather than being very restrictive."
Dyer's might not be a lone voice on this issue. His comments closely echo those of one anonymous third party publisher quoted in Eurogamer's original report.
"Microsoft is suggesting that anything but parity will result in them not carrying a title. 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."

http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/20...content-policy

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Driver dev thinking about next-gen now

September 4th, 2011, 12:03 Posted By: wraggster

Driver: San Francisco developer Reflections is already thinking about creating a next-gen game engine, and wants 1080p, 60 frames-per-second games as a mandate from the next Xbox and PlayStation 4.
Studio founder Martin Edmonson told Eurogamer this would eradicate a number of challenges developers face creating games on the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.
"I would like to see 1080p, 60 frames-per-second as a mandate," he said. "A level playing field where we don't have these dilemmas any more - do we go for detail, do we go for frame-rate? Do we go for effects, do we go for frame-rate? Do we go for resolution or do we go for memory?
"But to have this level playing field where you accept the game is going to be smooth as silk, you accept the resolution is going to be crisp and high, then it's all down to content. That would be something I would consider a load of dilemmas and nonsense out the way. "
Driver: San Francisco, out today in the UK, runs at a cool 60fps in single player - but drops down to 30fps in multiplayer.
The 60fps effect is maintained despite the game rendering a huge, open world for players to drive around in.
While Edmonson feels Driver has the PS3 "practically smoking", Sony's console did present some challenges to the development team - challenges he hopes the next generation will eradicate.
"Hopefully [developers will get] easier, quicker access to the hardware features, functionality and power, so that we spend less time - well the Xbox 360 isn't so much of an issue, but certainly the PlayStation 3 was a very, very difficult thing to get the best out of it," he said.
"I'm pretty convinced that say Driver: San Francisco, for example, has the machine practically smoking - Gran Turismo 5 probably the same. But to get to that point it was a long, hard slog. It has advantages and disadvantages. When you have complex systems like PlayStation 3, it means that it has hidden power and it has hidden advantages and you can exploit those things and come up with some amazing things.
"It helps good developers separate themselves from weaker developers in terms of tech. But what it does do is it means we spend months and months and years and years and millions of dollars just getting round the system, rather than producing innovative content.
"What I would hope from a new machine is ease of access."
Microsoft is reportedly readying an E3 2012 announcement for its next Xbox. There are whispers Sony may announce the PlayStation 4 next year, too. And Crysis developer Crytek is rumoured to be creating TimeSplitters 4 using DirectX 11 as a visual benchmark.
Edmonson revealed Reflections is already thinking about creating a new game engine for the next generation of consoles.
"We think about it now, and every other developer will be thinking about it right now," he said.
"And any game which is being produced with a release date with four years from now - with, say, a similar length to Driver: San Francisco or slightly less - will be thinking in terms of the next generation, not this generation. It's something that's being thought about now.
"And of course you do throw away the engine; we threw away the Destruction Derby engine, we threw away the Driver 1 engine, the Stuntman engine, the Driver 2 engine. But what you do keep is a vast amount of knowledge and the dos and the don'ts of approach. And that's invaluable knowledge, and that saves you a lot of time and effort when it comes to the next machines."
Eurogamer asked a number of game developers what they want from the next-gen for an article published last month.

http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/20...t-next-gen-now

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68 percent of European Xbox Live subscriptions purchased at retail

September 4th, 2011, 12:04 Posted By: wraggster

Despite living in a world where automatic renewal is a thing, a full two-thirds of European Xbox Live subscriptions are purchased at retail locations rather than online or through the console itself, according to Xbox Live marketing manager Robin Burrows.

This statistical tidbit was revealed during an interview with MCV, where Burrows also stated that Microsoft is in the process of testing new ways of manifesting digital products in meatspace, specifically referencing "point-of-sale activation," which allows shoppers to activate their newly purchased codes immediately after purchasing them.

Just like you'd be able to do if you hadn't gone to the store to buy something thatalready exists in your house.
http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/03/68...hased-at-reta/

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Modern Warfare 3 Xbox 360 bundle coming [update: Headset sold separately]

September 4th, 2011, 12:07 Posted By: wraggster

You'll have to wait until next year for that Star Wars-themed Xbox console, but there's a custom console for a different "war" coming out this year. At Activision's Call of Duty XP event, the publisher announced a Modern Warfare 3-themed 320GB Xbox, which will include two matching controllers, and custom startup and disc loading sounds (which you can listen to here). Those controllers a will be available separately, for $60, packaged with tokens for exclusive downloads.

In addition, Microsoft will launch a new MW3-themed headset, which can be used either on the console or as a Bluetooth headset. It'll also include exclusive downloads, for $70.

Oh, and of course the bundle includes a copy of Modern Warfare 3. A month of Live is also thrown in. Check out the hardware in our gallery below, and decide if it's something you want to drop $399 on. Major Nelson reports that it's up for pre-order in "the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, and EMEA," and will ship November 8.
http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/02/modern-warfare-3-xbox-360-bundle-coming-includes-bluetooth-head/

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LG's 'Dual Play' TVs let gamers share a single screen, different perspective

September 4th, 2011, 22:37 Posted By: wraggster

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Tank360 libXenon Homebrew Game

September 4th, 2011, 22:46 Posted By: wraggster

JQE released Tank360, a native libXenon homebrew game(-engine):


Official Site/Download: github.com/JQE/Tank360/

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

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Team Xecuter CoolRunner: New Nand-X Addon for Reset Glitch Hack

September 4th, 2011, 22:48 Posted By: wraggster

From team-xecuter.com:


Official Site: http://team-xecuter.com

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Maximus Stinger - Reset Glitch Hack add-on board

September 4th, 2011, 22:50 Posted By: wraggster

From 360nandflasher.com:


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

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DosFlash v2.0 Build 20110903

September 4th, 2011, 22:51 Posted By: wraggster

Kai Schtrom released a new version of DosFlash - a PC tool to flash your drive via DOS.

What's new/fixed:
* Key extraction task "LiteOn Key V3 (Tarablinda)" now supports the Slim firmware versions 9504, 0272, 0225, 0401, 1071 and also tries to discover the key on unknown firmware versions.
* 2 new tasks added named "Lock SPI Flash" and "Unlock SPI Flash". The new unlock SPI flash task is used in combination with Geremia's MXIC and Winbond Unlock method. It is very much influenced by Geremia's unlockSPI program, which was the first bruter to unlock Winbond SPI flashes. To relock the flash after you have finished writing a patched firmware to it, use the lock SPI flash task. This will instantly make the SPI flash write protected for all blocks. BP0, BP1 and SRP status bits are activated afterward, so handle this function with care!
* Read Flash task now can create a full firmware dump of the Slim firmware versions 9504, 0272, 0225, 0401 and 1071. To create full firmware dumps of 0225 drives and above you should get a compatible SATA2 controller and set it to IDE mode. In addition you should be able to do Geremia's MXIC or Winbond unlock method. The compatible SATA2 controller is needed to unlock the MTK. Any installed drivers should be uninstalled, because they will switch the controller back to AHCI mode. In combination with the SPI flash status register unlock you are able to write to the firmware and inject Geremia's 8051 trojan, which can then dump the complete firmware. A risk level is added to show you how risky it is for your individual flash chip and firmware combination to write the patched firmware to obtain a full dump.
* Possibility during "Read Flash" task to write firmware sector 3E of Slim drives with unknown firmware version This feature should be useful if new, unknown Slim firmware versions get out. If you write the patched 3E sector to a new and unknown firmware version this could potentially kill your drive. So handle it with care!
* Portio.sys reimplemented as separate driver for DosFlash32 and DosFlash64 The driver files portio32.sys and portio64.sys are again separated from the executable file. This way the user has the possibility to sign the drivers on his x64 system with the Driver Signature Enforcement Overrider.
* SATA and IDE adapter list updated
http://www.xbox-scene.com/xbox1data/...pFLLykDRgd.php

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homebrew Xbox Marketplace V0.1

September 5th, 2011, 01:28 Posted By: wraggster

via http://x360.gx-mod.com/modules/news/...p?storyid=3516

Xbox Marketplace homebrew JTAG V0.1 is an application being developed can download and install the index and JTAG applications directly from the Internet as it is happening on the Xbox Live Marketplace. The Homebrew dispenses a PC it opens the correct socket on the xbox for direct download applications on the storage device HDD / USB. When such downloaded applications on the marketplace, there's more to execute them. mod.com GX-translated from the youtube video. supertintin thank you to for the video relayed.

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Sony: Microsoft policies "dumbing down" game content

September 5th, 2011, 14:39 Posted By: wraggster

Sony Computer Entertainment America's Rob Dyer has accused Microsoft of imposing unreasonable restrictions on publishers.
In an interview with IndustryGamers , Dyer, SCEA's senior vice president of publisher relations, responded to the contents of Microsoft's Content Submission and Release Policy.
The doument was obtained by Eurogamer last week. It stated that, "Titles for Xbox 360 must ship at least simultaneously with other video game platform, and must have at least feature and content parity on-disc with the other video game 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."
Dyer claimed that Sony has known about Microsoft's policies "for quite some time", and accused Microsoft of "protecting an inferior technology."
"I think they want to dumb it down and keep it as pedestrian as possible so that if you want to do anything for Blu-ray or you have extra content above 9 gigs or you want to do anything of that nature, you'd better sure as heck remember that Microsoft can't handle that," he said.
Dyer pointed to the "litany" of requirements for getting a game accepted for Xbox Live, where Microsoft can dictate exclusivity periods, IP ownership, and even ask that developers work from an office to qualify.
"We're not pushing that. In fact, we've gone the other way to try and encourage publishers through ourPub Fund ," he added.
"We want to welcome the indies and we've seen that become a very big part of our business because indies are recognising that we aren't demanding a pound of flesh in order for them to get a game published on our network."
However, Dyer believes that Microsoft has now extended these demands beyond smaller companies to "B and A level publishers".
"So potentially any time we've gone out and negotiated exclusive content of things that we've announced at things like DPS or E3, publishers are getting the living crap kicked out of them by Microsoft because they are doing something for the consumer that is better on our platform than it might be perceived on theirs."
"So from a creativity standpoint and what we are doing to try to make it better for the consumer, our view is Microsoft's doing everything they can to eliminate that because they have an inferior technology."

http://www.gamesindustry.biz/article...rom-publishers

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Retailer stops selling old Xbox 360s

September 5th, 2011, 14:48 Posted By: wraggster

Game Group is to no longer sell older model second-hand Xbox 360s, according to an internal memo passed to Eurogamer. It reads: "As of Saturday September 3 we will not be selling pre-owned Xbox 360 Cores, Arcades and 20GB non-HDMIs. This is due to the high failure rate of the console and the difficulty and cost of repairing them." While the retailer will continue to accept trade-ins of the older models, they will be returned to its distribution centre "as a regular faulty return where they will exit the business."

http://www.next-gen.biz/news/retaile...-old-xbox-360s

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Modern Warfare 3 limited edition Xbox 360 set ushers in last wave of marketing hype

September 5th, 2011, 20:08 Posted By: wraggster

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Wasabi X360 available next week.

September 6th, 2011, 01:06 Posted By: wraggster

via http://x360.gx-mod.com/modules/news/...p?storyid=3519

While Team XKEY has already begun mass production of their product xKey360 in order to make it available to dealers next week. Now that the Team Wasabi again about her, despite the lack official announcement on the site of the Team. However, retailers announce the Wasabi X360 X360 product availability for next week. At the end to get it, you'll find a list of dealers in your country on the site of the Team Wasabi. Source: Wasabi.com / facebook

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XBOX CHART: Driver narrowly misses out on No.1

September 6th, 2011, 02:51 Posted By: wraggster

Square Enix and Eidos Montreal's Deus Ex: Human Revolution enjoys its second week at the top of the UK Xbox 360 sales chart.
Ubisoft's Driver: San Francisco makes its chart debut at No.2 ahead of Rugby World Cup 2011 and another new entry at No.4, Madden NFL 12.

Call of Duty: Black Ops drops to No.5, followed by Dirt 3 at No.6 and Battlefield: Bad Company 2 at No.7.

Rounding off the top ten are Bethesda's Brink, Halo: Reach and Call of Juarez: The Cartel.

Here's the full top ten for the week ended September 3.

01. Deus Ex: Human Revolution (Square Enix)
02. Driver: San Francisco (Ubisoft)
03. Rugby World Cup 2011 (505 Games)
04. Madden NFL 12 (EA)
05. Call of Duty: Black Ops (Activision)
06. DiRT 3 (Codemasters)
07. Battlefield: Bad Company 2 (EA)
08. Brink (Bethesda)
09. Halo: Reach (Microsoft)
10. Call of Juarez: The Cartel (Ubisoft)http://www.computerandvideogames.com/317723/xbox-chart-driver-narrowly-misses-out-on-no1/

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G155 Mobile Gaming Environment

September 6th, 2011, 03:22 Posted By: wraggster

New from Firebox



Going on holiday? Stuck round your Nan’s house? Wherever you are, don't let being away from your bedroom get in the way of your console gaming. Thanks to the G155 Mobile Gaming Environment you can deliver your own brand of shock and awe anywhere there’s plug socket.

This self-contained gamer’s paradise acts as a rugged carry case for your console, cables, controllers and games. But best of all, it has a built-in 15.5” LED HD display, with integrated stereo speakers! Perfect for gaming in HD or watching movies. What’s that? You’re going for a long country walk? Nah I’m good here thanks. I’ve got smack to lay down.


Hard plastic shell protects the consoleThe fitted foam base and velcro straps keep your hardware locked in tight while you’re on the move; and the hard plastic shell protects the valuable cargo from knocks and bumps. What’s more, the lightweight design even complies with TSA guidelines. So you can even take it onto an aeroplane as hand luggage – although whether they’ll let you anywhere near a plug socket is another matter. To make sure you don’t disturb anyone else there’s a 35mm headphone socket. Just remember to keep your wooping to a minimum.

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These sites allow you to bookmark your favourite pages and then share and discuss them with friends, fans and followers. Cool eh?
More Info
Please Note:
•Console is not included
Product Features:
•Self-contained mobile gaming environment
•Supports Xbox 360/360S and PS3 Slim
•Strap in your gaming console, store your accessories, select your favourite games, and you're good to go
•Integrated 15.5" LED HD display, with HDMI connection: catch every detail of your favourite games and movies
•Straps and fitted foam base: hold your console firmly in place while also allowing for proper ventilation
•Integrated stereo speakers and dual 3.5 mm headphone jacks: blast the sound or keep it to yourself
•Rugged case: protects all your gaming gear from minor impacts
•Storage bags: hold your controllers, power supplies, and other accessories while travelling
•Lightweight design complies with TSA regulations and airline carry-on guidelines
Dimensions:
•Measures approximately 57.2cm(W) x 43.2cm(H) x 22.9cm(D)


http://www.firebox.com/product/3774/...ng-Environment

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iXtreme LT+ v1.92 full firmware pack released

September 6th, 2011, 11:34 Posted By: wraggster

modrobert writes: "Commodore4Eva has released iXtreme LT+ v1.92 custom firmware for Xbox 360 drives. Changelog: Better support for rare firmware dumps. Further optimization of rootkit. Support for Lite-On DG-16D4S with firmware 1071. You can find iXtreme along with the updated JungleFlasher right here in the download section as usual. Enjoy!"

http://www.eurasia.nu/modules.php?na...ticle&sid=2851

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Gamer stuffs PS3 and Xbox 360 consoles into one case, clears shelf space for the trif

September 6th, 2011, 23:56 Posted By: wraggster

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Official Xbox Magazine launches new website

September 7th, 2011, 00:03 Posted By: wraggster

[h=2]Future Publishing stablemate Official Xbox Magazine has relaunched its website with a complete redesign today, ushering in a new focus on Xbox Live. The site is celebrating with a selection of new articles, including an interview with Epic Games' Cliff Bleszinski as well as previews of Battlefield 3 and Modern Warfare 3. Head over to the site by clicking the source link below.Source: Oxm
http://www.next-gen.biz/news/officia...es-new-website
[/h]

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Kinect Based Whole Building Breakout

September 7th, 2011, 00:07 Posted By: wraggster

mikejuk writes with a light piece in I Programmer about a neat Kinect and gigantic projector hack. From the article:"If you remember Breakout — rows of blocks a the top of the screen and a paddle to bounce a ball into them to destroy a block — then you might not feel nostalgic about it. After all, it was a very limited sort of game. However, take one Kinect and one building and you have something quite different when you use it to create a Breakout game. The bricks, ball and paddle all projected onto an old building and the player moves from side-to-side to control the paddle. The player's position is being detected by a Kinect, is there no end to the fun you can have with this gadget. The really clever bit, and you might not notice it unless you , is that the ball bounces off real architectural features of the building — like the windows, for example."

http://games.slashdot.org/story/11/0...lding-Breakout

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MS prepares FIFA-branded XBL cards

September 7th, 2011, 21:46 Posted By: wraggster

Microsoft is to lend the FIFA branding to two new Xbox Live Points Cards.
The first SKU will offer both 12 months Xbox Live Gold membership as well as 800 Microsoft Points. The second is a 2100 MSP card.
Both carry the image of FIFA 12’s UK cover stars Wayne Rooney and Jack Wilshere.
Though the Points can of course be spent on anything on Xbox Live, the branding encourages consumers to put them toward their FIFA 12 Ultimate Team collection.
FIFA 12 will be released on more or less every format in the UK on September 30^th. Former DLC add-on Ultimate Team will now be offered as a free download.

http://www.mcvuk.com/news/read/ms-pr...l-cards/084350

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Analysts predict 360 will maintain US lead over PS3

September 7th, 2011, 21:49 Posted By: wraggster

The upcoming August NPD figures will be the first to factor in the effect of the global PS3 price cut, but one analyst firm has said that it won’t be enough to dethrone the Xbox 360.
Sony cut the cost of the console by $50 last month.
IndustryGamers reports that Wedbush Morgan’s Michael Pachter predicts monthly PS3 hardware unit sales of 240k units. That would be a six per cent year-on-year decline.
However, he reckons that Xbox 360 unit sales will reach 275k units – an annual decline of 23 per cent.
Furthermore Pachter estimates 3DS sales of 135k, Wii sales of 175k and DS sales of 235k.
He also predicts sharp declines in the software market, with its monthly value expected to fall 30 per cent to $284m.
“Despite a relatively easy comp of down 14 per cent, we expect negative software sales growth to continue in August due to a late Madden launch and a very weak release slate," Pachter explained.
"Madden sales totalled $115m last year, so without the delay, our forecast calls for only a slightly down month."

http://www.mcvuk.com/news/read/analy...ver-ps3/084348

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Hybrid control scheme using an Xbox game pad and Kinect

September 7th, 2011, 21:57 Posted By: wraggster


The Kinect is an interesting beast. On one hand, it’s fantastic for hacking – a purpose for which it was not designed. On the other hand, it’s “just OK” when it comes to gaming – its entire reason for being.
One of the big complaints regarding the Kinect’s control scheme is that it’s no good for games such as first person shooters, where a large majority of the action involves walking, jumping, and aiming. For his Master’s project, [Alex Poolton] showing how the Kinect can be paired with a standard Xbox controller to provide hybrid gaming input.
While you might expect a simple game that shows the fundamentals of the hybrid control system, he has put together a full fledged game demo that shows how this control scheme might be implemented in a real game. [Alex] admits that it’s still a bit rough around the edges, but there’s some real potential in his design.
Continue reading to see a video demonstration of [Alex’s] project in action, and be sure to check out his blog for news and updates on the project.

http://hackaday.com/2011/09/07/hybri...ad-and-kinect/

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Microsoft bans XBL Marketplace thieves

September 7th, 2011, 22:05 Posted By: wraggster

In a post on the Xbox Live support forums a Microsoft spokesperson confirms a new wave of bans affecting those who are deemed to have "illegitimately accessed" Marketplace content. "Our investigation reveals that this access was intentional and not accidental, constituting a blatant violation of the terms of use for the service," the post reads. "Please know that we are being very careful regarding these suspensions, and have clear evidence regarding each account issued a permanent suspension from the service."

http://www.next-gen.biz/news/microso...tplace-thieves

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Street Fighter XBLA Colour Pack borked

September 8th, 2011, 19:36 Posted By: Shrygue

via Eurogamer


Yesterday's 'Colour Pack 1' add-on for Street Fighter III: Third Strike Online is broken on Xbox Live Arcade, Capcom has admitted.

The DLC pack, also released on PlayStation Network, allows gamers to palette swap characters' costumes. It costs 240 MSP (just over £2).

The pack contained incorrect files, Capcom said. "We are working diligently to get the revised DLC up on the Marketplace. We apologize for any inconvenience that this may have caused."

Once back online, gamers must contact Capcom customer services to obtain a redeem code for the working version.

The company has asked affected gamers to get in contact via the support page of its online store.

Capcom has an array of Street Fighter III: Third Strike Online DLC planned, including a set of music packs, more colour packs and extra match packs.

Gamers can already pay to unlock dipswitches and unlock the character Gill (80MSP each).

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Sonic Generations Collector's Edition confirmed

September 8th, 2011, 19:41 Posted By: Shrygue

via MCV


Sega has announced a limited edition Sonic Generations game will come packed with a plethora of Sonic goodies when it arrives later this year.

The Collector’s Edition for Xbox 360 and PS3 will include retro Sonic and modern-day Sonic figures, an art book celebrating 20 years of Sonic, lenticular packaging and an individually numbered gold ring replica.

It will also come with a ‘History of Sonic: Birth of an Icon’ documentary, a CD soundtrack created by Sonic Team and extra downloadable in-game content.

The game is due out on Xbox 360, PS3 and 3DS before the end of the year. Sega has not yet revealed how much the limited edition will cost but such bundles usually retail for around £59.99 to £69.99.

The bundle has been announced for PAL territories only.

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GAME rolls out digital Xbox games nationwide

September 8th, 2011, 22:15 Posted By: wraggster

As of today every GAME and Gamestation store in the UK has a range of Xbox Live digital titles on their shelves.
In February this year the range was trailed in 44 stores, with customers receiving a code to download the content either on a paper receipt, email or SMS text message.
Games on offer include both on-demand Xbox outings like Halo, Fable and Forza as well as many Xbox Live Arcade titles. Prices start at £3.50.
“Customers tell us they like to buy digital downloads in store because it gives them extra convenience and control,” commercial strategy directo Tricia Brennan stated.
“It also helps them to discover the incredible games on Xbox Live for the first time. By promoting a range of Xbox Live titles throughout the UK, we’re introducing thousands of new customers to new entertainment.
“Customers are using loyalty points and gift cards to snack on digital games at times when they’re not looking for a full new release. Putting Xbox LIVE titles in stores has significantly increased the choice of products and price points that we can offer customers.”
Microsoft UK’s Xbox and Entertainment retail, sales and marketing division director Stephen McGill added:
“We’re delighted to see how successful the program has been in GAME since the initial trial in February and we’re really pleased that the program is now being extended further giving Xbox 360 owners even more choice at retail nationwide.”

http://www.mcvuk.com/news/read/game-...ionwide/084408

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Analyst says MS is concerned about PS3 tech advantage

September 8th, 2011, 23:40 Posted By: wraggster

An analyst has backed up the claims by Sony exec Rob Dyer that Microsoft’s strategic decisions are currently designed to protect what is being regarded as the technological disadvantage being suffered by Xbox 360.
Dyer said last week that “I think what [Xbox European boss] Chris Lewis and the other representatives at Microsoft are doing is protecting an inferior technology”.
Now DFC Intelligence analyst David Cole has told IndustryGamers that he believes Microsoft is concerned by the raw power advantage the PS3 has over Xbox 360.
"My take is that video game console manufacturers have always been closed systems and there is a tendency for the manufacturer to protect its edge as aggressively as possible,” he explained.
“Both Sony and Nintendo have taken aggressive policies to protect their market lead against would be up-and-comers. In the case of the Xbox 360 it is an older system and clearly there are concerns about content looking better on the PS3.
"But at the end of the day the market will decide. If good content starts showing up on the PS3 but not on the Xbox 360, consumers are likely to balk. So it is really a balancing act for Microsoft."

http://www.mcvuk.com/news/read/analy...vantage/084396

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Xbox Live Fall 2011 Dashboard update preview: Bing search, voice control, and a Metro

September 9th, 2011, 23:57 Posted By: wraggster

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Crysis for Xbox 360 and PS3 to be digital release

September 10th, 2011, 00:38 Posted By: wraggster

The freshly announced Xbox 360 and PS3 versions of 2007 PC shooter Crysis will be digital-only releases.
The game, which was only announced this morning, will cost 1600 Microsoft Points on Xbox Live Games on Demand (around £13.70) or £15.99 on the PlayStation Network.
It will differ from the original via adapted joypad controls (based on the Crysis 2 model) along with various other unspecified “modifications and enhancements”. Stereoscopic 3D support will also be included.
The news comes as a further blow to High Street retailers who are becoming accustomed to an increasingly large number of titles skipping boxed releases in favour of digital retail channels.

http://www.mcvuk.com/news/read/crysi...release/084497

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Xbox 360 tops US sales in August despite PS3 price cut

September 10th, 2011, 23:08 Posted By: wraggster

As predicted by analysts, Xbox 360 retained its position at the top of the US hardware sales rankings in August, despite the mid-month introduction of a PS3 price cut.
Xbox 360 sold 308,000 units in August, according to NPD data passed along by Microsoft, representing the 14th month out of the last 15 the platform has sold more units than any other console.

Citing the likes of Gears of War 3, Forza Motorsport 4, Kinect Sports: Season Two and Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary, Microsoft said in a statement: "With a massive portfolio of new blockbuster and Kinect titles coming this holiday as well as new partnerships like Disney and UFC, Xbox 360 is well-positioned for continued success.

"Additionally, the highly-anticipated release of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 will launch on November 8. All of the entertainment, partner support, record growth and sales momentum give us confidence that Xbox 360 will notch another record year."

According to NPD analyst Anita Frazier, all platforms saw unit sales increases over July. "The PS3 price cut also drove a notable uptick in sales of that platform," she said.

While no PS3 sales figures were released, Sony Computer Entertainment America corporate communications boss Patrick Seybold said in a statement: "Despite inventory constraints at retail during the first half of August, PS3 hardware sales were very strong the last two weeks of the month following the $50 price cut and the new InFamous 2 bundle.

"The new PS3 price point, combined with PlayStation Move and the industry's strongest lineup of exclusive titles, including Uncharted 3 and Everybody Dance, positions us for an amazing holiday season."

Rob Dyer, SCEA's senior vice president of publisher relations, admitted earlier this week that Microsoft has a "massive lead" on the hardware side in the US, selling 1.6 Xbox 360 consoles to every PS3 sold.

http://www.computerandvideogames.com...ps3-price-cut/

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Steam's 'Xbox Support' section discovered, sparks Valve 360 rumours

September 10th, 2011, 23:11 Posted By: wraggster

Valve Xbox 360 rumours have burst into roaring digital flames this morning, after Steam users discovered an 'Xbox support' section buried inside the platform's online support forums.
Currently Steamworks - Valve's developer suite with online matchmaking, friends list and cross-platform play support - is only available on PlayStation 3, but the Half-Life house hasn't been shy in stating it'd love to make the move to Xbox.

Valve's Erik Johnson told CVG last year: "We think customers would like [Steam on Xbox 360]. We think, anyway. We'd love to try that."

It's been made clear in the past however, that Valve believes the decision is "not up to us". The studio would like Microsoft to relax its closed regulations on Xbox Live, which don't allow outsiders to put their own content onto the service (so mods, quick patches etc).

Our heads tell us the listing on Steam Support is quite likely an innocent mistake - or in reference to Valve's non-Steam Xbox titles - but it wouldn't be the first time something like this has leaked online.

Isn't there a large Japan-angled trade show happening next week too? In a territory in which Microsoft could do with a big announcement to boost sales? Hmmm...

http://www.computerandvideogames.com...e-360-rumours/

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Zen rejects "Xbox inferior tech" claim

September 10th, 2011, 23:46 Posted By: wraggster

Pinball FX developer Zen Studios has rejected Sony's claim that Microsoft's Xbox 360 content policy is an attempt to "protect inferior technology".
Last month Eurogamer revealed Microsoft reserves the right to refuse to publish games on Xbox Live Arcade if they launch on PlayStation Network first.
Microsoft may refuse to publish retail games if they do not feature content parity on-disc.
Sony then criticised the policy, accusing Microsoft of "protecting inferior technology". "I think they want to dumb it down and keep it as pedestrian as possible so that if you want to do anything for Blu-ray, or you have extra content above 9GB, or you want to do anything of that nature, you'd better sure as heck remember that Microsoft can't handle that," Sony's senior VP of publisher relations Rob Dyer said.
"So potentially any time we've gone out and negotiated exclusive content of things that we've announced at things like DPS or E3, publishers are getting the living crap kicked out of them by Microsoft because they are doing something for the consumer that is better on our platform than it might be perceived on theirs.
"So from a creativity standpoint and what we are doing to try to make it better for the consumer, our view is Microsoft's doing everything they can to eliminate that because they have an inferior technology."
According to Zen Studios, maker of XBLA exclusives Pinball FX and Pinball FX 2, PSN and iOS game Zen Pinball, and multiplatform game Marvel Pinball, Microsoft's content policy benefits developers.
"It's their [Microsoft's] culture," Mel Kirk, Zen Studios Vice President of Marketing and Public Relations, told Eurogamer. "Sony, Nintendo and Microsoft all have very different cultures. Microsoft has a very specific way of managing Xbox Live Arcade. It makes for a more successful platform for everybody who gets a game up there. Those things are in place to as a real gatekeeper for quality content.
"I'll be perfectly honest, you're going to do better on XBLA than you will on PSN. The policies they have in place really enable that. They don't stifle creativity because, you look like a game like Pinball FX, we did some groundbreaking things there for a free-to-play with in-app purchasing game on console. They let us take those risks. They were there. They wanted to work and help us develop them even further and gave us a lot of good input on that. That just hasn't been our experience.
"If they're [Microsoft] holding back features in games because they can't do what PlayStation does, I would agree with you. But I really don't understand that. Is there an actual specific title we can talk about?"
Kirk pointed the finger at Sony in an attempt to counter what he believes has been Microsoft bashing in recent weeks. "If we're going to give Microsoft a hard time, especially recently, with other things Sony said about them trying to inhibit creativity because they don't have powerful enough tech to do things and their technology is lacklustre, if we're going to focus on all these things then we need to then look across the board at everyone and criticise everything," he said. "It just doesn't seem fair to be lopsided one way or the other."
He recounted the experience Zen had following the PSN outage earlier this year. "When PSN went down, of course it was a huge story. But then the fallout from that got taken away. E3 came and it was all gone and forgotten about.
"We missed two releases in the PSN outage. Then there was a lot of talking between account managers. Hey, when do you guys want to release? Here are potential dates. We were like, oh man, this is really good, and we'll know when we're coming out and it's not going to be so bad.
"But the Thursday night before E3, all of the games just got released. Anybody that missed their date got pushed out and was published. We found out about it over Twitter and Facebook. Hey! Fantastic Four is available! We were like, what? Totally caught by surprise. It was hard for us to figure that one out.
"We've talked about it. We have good dialogue about it. They're not exactly apologetic. They're like, OK, next time - hopefully there's not a next time - we'll try to do it differently. We're happy with that."
While Sony has had its troubles with PSN, XBLA remains the "holy grail" for digital publishing.
"They want to be first to market," Kirk said. "That's totally a business strategy and company philosophy. If you want to get your game on XBLA, yeah, don't put it out anywhere until you get it there. But XBLA right now, Steam is rivalling, but XBLA is the Holy Grail for digital publishing.
"Steam changed things very recently, but up until the last six months, 12 months, you ask a developer, hey, where do you want to publish your game? The first answer they're going to say is XBLA. Now it's changing. Steam and XBLA are fighting and jockeying for number one destination."

http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/20...ior-tech-claim

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JTAG Content Manager v1.5

September 11th, 2011, 19:14 Posted By: wraggster

Xamphear released JTAG Content Manager 1.5:
[QUOTE]
What This App Does:
* Browse 360 files on your PC by their real info, like game name and package title.
* Upload files (XBLA, DLC, GOD, Avatar, Title Update) to your console over FTP with a single click. Files are automatically uploaded to the right folders.
* Drag and drop files to other applications, if you'd prefer to use your own FTP client.
* Organize a messy folder of downloaded content into 1 of 4 different directory styles. Restore the original filenames for XBLA and DLC files.
* View the MediaID of Title Updates and GODs so you can match them, and search JQE and XBUC for matching TUs.
* View the MediaID of ISO files. (Requires abgx360)

What's new/fixed:
Size column on upload screen. Fixed size labels on upload screen, all
sizes listed in MB now. Fixed bug in abgx360 detection. Fixed bug that
caused error messages when selecting files and uploading in some regions.
More accurate speed during uploads. Time remaining and progress percentage
added to window title and tray icon. Other bug fixes.

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

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ECC Glitch Generator v1.1

September 11th, 2011, 19:16 Posted By: wraggster

BestPig released a new version of ECC Glitch Generator - a GUI tool that will easily generate an ECC file for the Xbox 360 reset glitch hack based on a dump of your NAND.

What's new/fixed:
* This update adds the 1BL key, without this key it's possible it didn't work on FAT 360s.
* Will now also create an SMC file.

Official Site/Download: bestpig.fr

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Exploit 360 v1.0.0

September 11th, 2011, 19:17 Posted By: wraggster

SneakyPeanut released Exploit 360 v1.0.0 - which is a new version of what was previously called Easy FreeBoot - now with added features for the Reset Glitch Hack:
[QUOTE]
This time around it's a completely new application coded from the ground up to make creation of images even simpler.

This new application goes by the name Exploit 360 and is a creation tool for both images for JTAGed Xbox 360s AND consoles exploited using the new Reset Glitch by Gli Gli. This program was designed to be as simple to use as possible but still have advanced features, such as the built in SMC configuration editor.

Please note that this is Easy FreeBoot's successor and all future support and updates will go to Exploit 360.

What's new/fixed since EFB:
* Support for the reset glitch exploit.
* Brand new GUI.
* Removed support for creating older versions of FreeBoot, only 13599 kernel is supported.
* Improved overall console detection.

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

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More Reset Glitch Hack Chips: Matrix Glitcher 360 and SQUIRT360

September 11th, 2011, 19:18 Posted By: wraggster

The amount of Reset Glitch Hack 'modchips' and NAND Flashers for the Xbox360 keeps growing. 2 more have been announced.

* http://www.360squirt.com/ (via modcontrol.com)


* http://infinitymod.com


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

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Wasabi 360S ODD Emulator in Production

September 11th, 2011, 19:19 Posted By: wraggster

From wasabi360.com:
[QUOTE]
We're pleased to announce that we have started manufacturing the Wasabi 360S. First stocks will be available to ship to resellers this weekend. Manufacturing of the Phat version will commence shortly.

A video will be posted soon showing operation of the Wasabi 360.
Official Site: http://www.wasabi360.com

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More Reset Glitch Hack Chips and NAND Flashers: EDGE 360, x360 Glitchip/SF, 360-CLIP

September 11th, 2011, 19:20 Posted By: wraggster

More teams have announced their NAND flashers, clips and "modchips" for the Reset Glitch Hack which allows to run XeLL/homebrew on your Xbox 360.

* http://www.edge-360.cn



* http://www.x360glitchip.fr (originally only marketed to the french market, but now also with an english website)



* http://www.360-clip.com/


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

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EDGE 360 GX announced

September 11th, 2011, 22:56 Posted By: wraggster

[source: edge-360.cn] Owing to recent developments by Gligli (Reset Glitch Hack), which allows the booting of unsigned code on the XboX 360, irrespective of Kernel version, and on all versions of the X360 and X360 Slim motherboard (Except Xenon Motherboard), we’re pleased to offer the Edge 360 GX modchip! Edge360 GX works by sending pulses to the console’s processor thereby allowing unsigned code to boot as if it was legitimate signed code. Owing to the differential timing of this attack, the Edge360 GX repeats the process until booting of unsigned code is successful. Once this has been achieved, XeLL, the Xenon Linux Loader is booted.

http://www.eurasia.nu/modules.php?na...ticle&sid=2853

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Matrix Glitcher 360 released

September 11th, 2011, 22:57 Posted By: wraggster

[source: The Matrix Team @ infinitymod.com] Hello to all. After several years since we gave our last contribution to the scene we decided that it was time to come back as we think that there is still lot of work to be done to bring innovation and quality in the console market. After all we do still love this job too much : ). A big difference from the past will be that we are not going to focus anymore on a single console, but we are going to spread our product line across all the consoles available on the market. Our first product is going to be based on the GliGli hack. Maybe many do not fully realize it, but this guy made a hell of an Engineering work to get to that result and I personally want to congratulate him for having found something that is worth to be called an "Hack"! To celebrate him and our comeback we decided to call this first new product "The Matrix Glitcher".

http://www.eurasia.nu/modules.php?na...ticle&sid=2854

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BlueMSXBox v6 for XBOX

September 11th, 2011, 23:30 Posted By: wraggster

via http://emu-russia.net/en/

MSX emulator for XBOX has been updated. Changes:
- emulator always remembers which Disks, Carts, and Tape are loaded on initial set-up;
- save states always remember the currently loaded drives;
- combined Change Disk, Cart, and Tape menus into one;
- fixed the problem with autoconfig not working for DB entries that contained more than one CRC;
- Boot Cart and Disk are no longer asked for in already configured games with a multifile zip.
News source: http://xbins.org

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Microsoft adds Halo and Forza to Eurogamer Expo

September 12th, 2011, 19:32 Posted By: wraggster

Microsoft will make six titles playable at this year's Eurogamer Expo, including Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary and Forza 4.
Gears Of War 3, Gunstringer, Dance Central 2 and Kinect Sports 2 will also be available for visitors to enjoy on the show floor.
Microsoft is just the latest publisher to announce its participation in the event, with Sega, Sony, Ubisoft, Bethesda and many more already confirmed.
Bioware, id Software and Ubisoft meanwhile will all present dev sessions at the show.
In addition, GamesIndustry.biz is hosting a Career Fair, giving attendees the chance to learn about getting started in the games industry across a range of disciplines.
Well over 25,000 tickets have been sold for the consumer event, which takes place at Earls Court One on September 22-25.
There are only a few tickets remaining, and they, along with more details about the show, can be found at the official site.
http://www.gamesindustry.biz/article...eurogamer-expo

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XBOX CHART: Space Marine makes strong debut

September 12th, 2011, 21:41 Posted By: wraggster

Techland's Dead Island manages to debut at the top of the UK Xbox 360 sales chart, mirroring its performance on the UK all format sales chart.

Narrowly missing out on the top spot is THQ and Relic's Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine, which makes it to No.2 and forces Driver: San Francisco down to No.3.

Following it at No.4 is Deus Ex: Human Revolution (which is down from No.1), Rugby World Cup 2011 at No.5 and NHL 12 at No.6. Lego Pirates of the Caribbean moves up from No.10 to No.7 while Sega's mature Kinect title Rise of Nightmare enters the top ten at No.8.

Finishing up the top ten are DiRT 3 at No.9 and Madden NFL 12 at No.10.

Here's the full top ten for the week ended September 3.

01. Dead Island (Deep Silver)
02. Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine (THQ)
03. Driver: San Francisco (Ubisoft)
04. Deus Ex: Human Revolution (Square Enix)Madden NFL 12 (EA)
05. Rugby World Cup 2011 (505 Games)
06. NHL 12 (EA)
07. Lego Pirates of the Caribbean (Disney)
08. Rise of Nightmares (Sega)
09. DiRT 3 (Codemasters)
10. Madden NFL 12 (EA)

http://www.computerandvideogames.com...-strong-debut/

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Jurassic: The Hunted

September 12th, 2011, 21:52 Posted By: wraggster

Newly released today



Jurassic Lost Island is an epic, story-driven first-person shooter set on a dark, mysterious island that connects the modern world with the age of dinosaurs. Take on the role of Craig Dylan, a weapons and survival expert, hired to protect a research team sent to study the strange temporal energy of the island and recover whatever is left of the expedition lost on the island 25 years ago. Every minute is a fight for survival as Dylan must scavenge weapons, defend barricades, and battle titanic dinosaurs to return to his own time.


http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...j-70-3io6.html

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Gears of War 2 (Platinum Hits)

September 12th, 2011, 21:54 Posted By: wraggster

Newly released today



features•Bigger, better, and more badass gameplay: Gears of War 2 builds upon the gameplay of the first title in every way. First, the scope of the action is bigger—new characters, more weapons, nastier enemies, bigger vehicles, and grander locales offer more action, more emotion, and more thrills.
•Jaw-dropping visuals: Gears of War 2 raises the graphics bar for next-generation games through its breathtaking visual effects, which are made possible through advances in Unreal Engine 3.
•Gripping story: Gears of War 2 continues to push deep, immersive storytelling in video games to greater heights. Humanity's epic battle for survival is felt on both the personal and epic levels as you explore multiple story arcs that introduce new characters and flesh out the histories of familiar ones.
•Unparalleled Xbox LIVE action: Gears of War 2 takes full advantage of the industry-leading Xbox LIVE® service. Home to 10 million gamers, Xbox LIVE is a robust online entertainment network and allows you to experience Gears of War 2 either competitively or cooperatively. Enhanced competitive multiplayer gameplay over Xbox LIVE introduces new modes, weapons, and a multitude of new maps.
descriptionGears of War® 2 is the highly anticipated sequel to the 4.7 million-selling blockbuster third-person tactical action game, and one of the most popular Xbox 360 games in history. Gears of War 2 picks up six months after the events of Gears of War, and thrusts you back into a deep and harrowing story of humankind's epic battle for survival against a nightmarish force of underground creatures known as the Locust Horde.

Gears of War 2 is developed by Epic Games exclusively for Xbox 360®. Continue the story of Marcus Fenix, a reluctant war hero, as he leads Delta Squad on a series of perilous and adrenaline-pumping missions. Gears of War 2 blends a best-in-class third-person shooter with unsurpassed high-definition visuals, all layered on top of an engaging story of survival, loss, and retribution.

http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...j-70-44hg.html

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Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm 2

September 12th, 2011, 21:57 Posted By: wraggster

Newly released today



The ninja wars between the villages are not over. Ninja Storm 2 spans the whole Shippuden series, from the first episode to the latest arc. A total of 40 ninjas are joining the fray this time, call out the power of the tailed beasts, or use the power of the Sharingan when you pit yourself against the overwhelming forces of the ninjas from the opposing villages.

The game graphics are produced under the supervision of Studio Pierrot, the backgrounds are transformed from 2D to 3D, so you can head deeper into the forests or caves during the battles. For the first time in Naruto game history, you can log on to the network to fight other ninjas and by participating in the rank matches, you can win reputation.


http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...j-70-3qw0.html

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Nyko's $30 Zoom for Kinect now shipping to tiny-roomed gamers worldwide

September 14th, 2011, 23:04 Posted By: wraggster

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Xbox Live functionality confirmed for Windows 8

September 14th, 2011, 23:22 Posted By: wraggster

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Xbox hosts charity event for Children's Miracle Network Hospitals

September 14th, 2011, 23:28 Posted By: wraggster

Microsoft's will host the Gaming and Giving for Good (G3) Xbox LIVE charity event in October to raise funds for Children's Miracle Network Hospitals.
Microsoft will supply participants with free Xbox Live gold memberships, who will ask friends and family to donate for evey hour they play online on October 1.
"We are inspired by the support from the gaming community and how it has rallied around our Extra Life programs to support Children's Miracle Network Hospitals," said John Lauck, CEO of the Children's Miracle Network.
"We're honored and thrilled that Xbox is helping the Extra Life fundraising effort with its G3 event on Xbox LIVE."
GameStop and 2K are also supporting the charity, and have already raised $70,000. Hulu, EA, Capcom Entertainment, Square Enix are also contributing.
"GameStop associates are passionate about giving back to the communities in which we operate," said Paul Raines, GameStop CEO.
"We look forward to raising awareness and money for this tremendous cause with the help of gamers nationwide."
More information about the event can be found at the official site.

http://www.gamesindustry.biz/article...work-hospitals

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Cartoon Network teams up with Xbox for new show

September 15th, 2011, 00:10 Posted By: wraggster

The other kids TV giant, Cartoon Network, has partnered with Xbox to market the arrival of its new hit TV show, The Amazing World of Gumball.
The cartoon – which is developed in the UK – is already a smash hit in the US and is notable for combining 2D, 3D and live action imagery.
The deal with Xbox will see bespoke animations appear on Xbox Live, with Cartoon Network’s parent Turner Broadcasting, the show’s creators and Xbox’s design team working together to create an ‘animated environment.’
This will showcase avatars, videos and wallpapers based on the show, and there will be millions of Xbox credits to give away.

http://www.mcvuk.com/news/read/carto...ew-show/084697

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Ballmer: Windows Phones aren't selling very well, but we're not worried

September 16th, 2011, 00:32 Posted By: wraggster

Microsoft's Steve Ballmer was his usual frank self when he met financial analysts yesterday, admitting that the world isn't yet as keen on Windows Phone as he'd hoped. To be precise, AllThingsD reported him as saying: "We haven't sold quite as many as I would have liked in the first year." His cunning plan? Well, that's easy: make it all Nokia's problem. Or, as he put it: "With Nokia we have a dedicated hardware partner that is all-in on Windows Phones." Indeed, the Finnish manufacturer has now staked far more than Microsoft on the success of this "third ecosystem" and, if its imminent Mango handsets fail to turn things around, we may eventually see Stephen Elop standing behind that silent cash register.

http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/15/b...-but-were-not/

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Microsoft touring Australian shopping centres with Kinect

September 16th, 2011, 01:33 Posted By: wraggster

Starting Monday 15th September, Microsoft will be kicking off a Kinect tour at shopping centres throughout Australia.
The tour will be showcasing upcoming Christmas Kinect releases including Kinect Disneyland Adventures and the Australian-developed Fruit Ninja.
Andy Coughlin, retail lead at Microsoft Australia, said: "There will be some amazing new games and experiences to come to Kinect in the next few months including voice control, Kinect Disneyland Adventures, Kinect Sports Season 2, Dance Central 2."
"Couple this with HD movies on demand⁺ and FOXTEL on Xbox 360value on the Xbox is the strongest we have seen."
The full schedule of Kinect appearances is as follows:
New South Wales:
19-25 September: MacArthur Shopping Centre, Campbelltown (centre court)
26 September - 2 October: Warringah Mall, Brookvale (opposite Woolworths)
Victoria:
24 September - 4 October: Royal Melbourne Show, Melbourne Showground (Grand Pavillion)
3-9 October: Chadstone Shopping Centre, Chadstone (outside Target & opposite EB Games) AND Knox City Shopping Centre, Watirna (opposite Saleras & EB Games)
Queensland:
19-25 September: Robina Shopping Centre, Robina (Under the chandelier) AND Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, Broadbeach (opposite Baskin & Robbins and Crema Espresso)
13-17 October: Redcliffe Place Brisbane Square, Brisbane
Western Australia:
10-16 October: Garden City Shopping Centre, Upper My Gravatt (centre court)
ACT:
3-9 October: Canberra Centre, Canberra City (centre court)
South Australia:
10-16 October: Elizabeth Shopping Centre, Elizabeth (outside Myer and Big W)

http://www.mcvuk.com/news/read/micro...-kinect/084778

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'Microsoft need to announce the next Xbox now'

September 16th, 2011, 01:46 Posted By: wraggster

Nintendo made their SNES for 13 years, shelving the console in 2003, though the last big games landed in 1996 shortly after it was replaced by the N64. Six years is long enough for any console - it was long enough for the PS1 (1994- 2000) and PS2 (2000-2006), the Mega Drive (1988-1994) and DS (2004-2010), and it's long enough for the 360.

When the clock strikes midnight on 16 November the 360 will head into its seventh year, with dozens of games still to come. This isn't the usual console life-cycle; by now the big games should have dried up, with only one or two first-party essentials tiding players over until Microsoft release their next console, which would typically be revealed in the middle of the predecessor's fifth year.

Instead we're looking forward to a year with Ghost Recon: Future Soldier, the rebooted Tomb Raider and Bioshock Infinite - and the beginnings of an eighth year where we'll see the likes of Halo 4.

The 360's longevity has set developers free to push the hardware further than anyone ever thought possible. This was the generation game development got stupidly expensive; teams grew, deadlines moved into the distant future, budgets inflated.

For a long time studios were happy with the power the console offered, and software solutions from Crytek and id have milked the last drops of power from those half decade-old processors.

Not until this year have prominent voices in the industry started demanding more. Crysis proved the 360 was outgunned by the PC back in 2007, but building a machine to run Crysis on its highest settings was beyond the bank accounts of most players. Crysis was a 'what if?' kind of game and it sold poorly, but four years on that Crysis-capable PC isn't such a pipe dream.

Cosmetics matter, and high-end PC mods for GTA and Crysis show what the next generation of games deserves to look like. Hobbyists are modding games to look near-photorealistic without the support of major publishers, while cutting-edge developers are once again looking to the PC to lead the way. The technology powering Epic's Unreal 3 'Samaritan' demo isn't some pipe dream; it's here now, in the modern PC.



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It's personality that counts, of course, and developers need more power for that, too. Battlefield 3 looks smoother and prettier on a heavyweight PC, but the lack of grunt provided by the PS3 and 360 cripples the basic mechanics of the game - online multiplayer is capped at 24 on consoles, 64 on PC, just as it was in Bad Company 2.

Speaking to Gamesindustry.biz Ubisoft Montreal's Yves Jacquier bemoaned the current generation's inability to do the things Ubisoft Montreal need - beautiful graphics, complex sound, large scale, and smart AI - all at the same time.

"We're extremely limited in what we can do," he explained. "It's a challenge for the engineers to provide everything with a small amount of memory and computation time. We think that the next generation of consoles won't have these limits any more. What's the value of making something more realistic and better animated if you have poor AI?"

The Xbox 360 is a 2005-spec PC in a slimline box at a consumer friendly price, and the next Xbox will likely follow the same model when it arrives in late 2013, but building the next generation will be a challenge for everyone.

For Microsoft, the challenge is selling such a monster machine at the right price; for developers, it's creating so many HD assets in such a volume, on time and on budget; for the tech experts, it's everything from finding the right storage media to worrying about whether broadband data caps will kill the dream of a fullydownloadable future.



Until it's settled, games on console and PC are hamstrung by the needs of a generation long past its sell-by date. Years seven and eight will be fruitful but filled with envy - that feeling you get when L.A. Noire stutters to around 20fps on 360 while the PC version blazes along at 60fps will become all too familiar, as developers reach for the stars with a boat anchor around their ankles.

http://www.computerandvideogames.com...next-xbox-now/

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Gears of War 3 for £1.99 - the price war begins

September 16th, 2011, 23:12 Posted By: wraggster

It’s arguably the biggest release of the year to date and retail is gearing up for a bloody fight to win the biggest market share possible on Microsoft’s Gears of War 3.
HMV is the first retailer to show its hand. It will sell the game for just £1.99 to anyone who trades in a copy of current UK No.1 Dead Island. The offer is available in-store until September 25^th.
HMV is also offering F1 2011 (released on September 23^rd) for jus £3.99 for customers who trade-in copies of either Gears of War 3, Dead Island or Resistance 3. That deal is open until September 29^th.
GAME has also revealed its Gears of War 3 offer. It will be selling the game for £4.99 when customers trade-in either Dead Island, Driver: San Francisco or Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine.
It has a second Gears offer, too – the Limited Edition Gears of War 3 320GB Xbox 360 can be had for £99.99 when a 250GB Elite Xbox 360 is traded-in.
It’s running the same deal for F1 2011, with Resistance 3 also added into the mix. It’s also offering an extra 20 per cent on any trade-ins made against FIFA 12.
The big question now is exactly how low supermarkets will be prepared to drive down the price of Gears of War 3. Will anyone dare drop below the £30 price point?

http://www.mcvuk.com/news/read/gears...-begins/084907

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Xbox Live TV on track for "Christmas"

September 17th, 2011, 01:12 Posted By: wraggster

Microsoft top-dog Steve Ballmer has restated that Xbox Live TV will be launched this Christmas.
The last time we heard anything was at E3, three months ago, when Microsoft forecast an autumn arrival.
Ballmer demoed the technology at a Microsoft event this week on campus in Anaheim, California.
The presentation was light on detail about content partners, pricing and what films and TV series will be available, reported CNN.
But Ballmer said Microsoft would be working with "dozens or hundreds of additional video content suppliers".
Live television on Xbox Live TV will encompass "news, sport and your favourite channels" said Ballmer.
Ballmer hinted that this will work in a similar way to Sky works on Xbox 360 here in the UK.
Another stand-apart feature of Xbox Live TV will be Bing search combined with Kinect's voice recognition. "You say it, Xbox finds it," said Ballmer.
A demonstration was given where a Microsoft employee said, "Xbox, Bing, The Office," and the telly promptly displayed the available seasons of comedy show The Office (US version). A demonstration to search within the seasons of the show themselves didn't work.
"It's a good thing that's shipping for Christmas," Ballmer quipped.

http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/20...-for-christmas

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Sega prepping Daytona USA re-release?

September 17th, 2011, 01:14 Posted By: wraggster

Sega looks poised to re-release classic racing game Daytona USA for multiple platforms.
A new listing for Daytona USA has turned up on theAustralian Classifications Board website (spotted by Gamespot). It's rated G for all ages.
Arcade racer Daytona USA made its console debut on Sega Saturn. A Dreamcast remake, Daytona USA 2001, followed, adding online play.
Sega has recently dusted off other titles from the Dreamcast's back catalogue for PSN and XBLA, including Space Channel 5, Sega Bass Fishing, Crazy Taxi, Sega Rally and multiple Sonic the Hedgehog games.
Eurogamer has contacted Sega for more information - we'll update if we hear anything back.

http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/20...usa-re-release

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Halo Anniversary's Kinect functionality partially explained

September 17th, 2011, 01:28 Posted By: wraggster

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ViviTouch haptic technology hands-on: electroactive polymer giving a 'high definition

September 17th, 2011, 23:34 Posted By: wraggster

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Splitfish FragFX Shark 360 starts shipping for your first-person shooting pleasure

September 17th, 2011, 23:44 Posted By: wraggster

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Xbox TV Launch Planned Before End of Year

September 18th, 2011, 21:20 Posted By: wraggster

Microsoft has confirmed plans to launch its TV service over Xbox Live by this holiday season. Negotiations with content partners are still underway, but options for live TV will include both news and sports. 'Microsoft believes the key differentiator between Xbox as a TV platform and the sea of failed competitors will be its voice and motion search tool. Utilizing the Kinect attachment, users will be able to navigate through content with voice commands. The search function will be powered by Bing.' The company also wants to tie Xbox Live's social experience into viewing video content. Steve Ballmer said, 'You should have any entertainment you want with all the people you care about, really simply and on any screen.

http://games.slashdot.org/story/11/0...re-End-of-Year

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Harmonix interested in branching out beyond music with Kinect

September 18th, 2011, 21:33 Posted By: wraggster

Many years ago, before Harmonix was the dev house that birthed Guitar Hero, Rock Band, and Dance Central, the company created EyeToy: AntiGrav -- a motion-controlled game for Sony's PlayStation 2 "EyeToy" camera peripheral. Despite strong sales, that was the last time that the Massachusetts-based developer created a project not steeped in music. But it seems that studio may not have abandoned its one-time interest in non-music motion-based games.

"I think we're always open-minded about new opportunities," Harmonix CEO Alex Rigopulos told me in an interview this week at the Tokyo Game Show. "Certainly our focus always has been and probably always will be on music-themed games," he added, but his company's involvement with Dance Central has rekindled the studio's interest in other types of motion-based gaming. "A perfect example is the Kinect, which I think that through our work on Dance Central we've developed an affinity for -- towards motion gaming."

Though Rigopulos wouldn't speak to specifics, he would say that, "It wouldn't be surprising if in the future we took some steps outside of our wheelhouse in music to try some new things in non-music focused motion gaming."

Harmonix' latest release, VidRhythm for iOS devices, may also be on the cards for some type of Kinect-based adaptation. "Of course our hope is to keep improving it and expanding it, including bringing it to other platforms, such as possibly Kinect," Rigopulos explained. That said, with VidRhythm having just launched in the past few weeks, he's not even sure of initial sales reports just yet, so it may be a few before we hear more about the application headed to other devices.

http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/18/ha...c-with-kinect/

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RxE - A Game List Demonstration

September 18th, 2011, 21:43 Posted By: wraggster

Team FSD posted more news about their upcoming new homebrew dashboard, named RxE, for the 360:
[QUOTE]
Here is a little game list demonstration detailing the current features. The video quality is not that great because it is taken from a camera and not a direct feed.


Official Site: http://www.teamfsd.com

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More details about the SQUIRT360 ACTEL RGH Chip

September 18th, 2011, 21:44 Posted By: wraggster

The team behind the SQUIRT360 Reset Glitch Hack modchip sent us more details:
[QUOTE]
SQUIRT360 is almost ready, the prototypes are in production this weekend and will be shipped to BETA TESTER during next week.
With the DEV BOARD here we did some nice tests on speed, and we are happy to say that SQUIRT360 is about 3 times more faster then other COOL RUNNER SOLUTION.
In attach PCB preview of prototypes and SQUIRT360 TESTS results.



Price will be SIMILAR then COOL RUNNER SOLUTION… more infos after we ship out prototypes to beta testers.

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

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x360glitchip Samples in Action

September 18th, 2011, 21:46 Posted By: wraggster

The team behind the x360glitchip (a Reset Glitch Hack modchip) released installation guides, pictures and videos of the chip in action:
[QUOTE]
Samples are available and have been shipped to selected reseller/reviewers.
Installation documentations have also been put online in the correspondant section.
Find here some installation pictures:
Here a little video showing the boot timing of the x360glitchip on Xbox 360 FAT.
And here same video for xbox 360 slim.
Official Site: http://www.x360glitchip.com

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Wasabi Ultra Menu System

September 18th, 2011, 21:47 Posted By: wraggster

The Wasabi team also comes with news about their upcoming ODD emulator device:

Team Wasabi are proud to present Wasabi 360 Ultra running on the Xbox 360!

At this time we would also like to introduce you to a very unique, intuitive feature that is an integral part of the Wasabi 360 experience. We bring you the world's first implementation of an Xbox 360 side on-screen menu navigation system for an optical disc emulator. No need to interact with a small box/LCD for feedback or navigation. Simply navigate the on-screen menu system to select ISO's using your Xbox 360 controller.

No need to get off the sofa, press any device side buttons or suffer any inconvenience. Watch the following video as we navigate through the XMB to select and execute game ISO's.

Keep an eye out for our next Wasabi 360 Ultra demonstration video which will be posted over the next few days. Ultimate performance, maximum innovation. Team Wasabi.

*Update* We've been contacted by people who are concerned that the way in which Wasabi 360 Ultra implements its menu system can be trivially blocked by a future update of the Xbox 360 dashboard. This is simply not the case, as we will explain. The Wasabi 360 Ultra menu system works by taking advantage of a fundamental feature provided by the Xbox 360 system software - the ability to play media from end-user burnt data discs. The Wasabi 360 Ultra menu system works by mimicking such a data disc; from the perspective of the Xbox 360 it only sees standard data discs being inserted, there is no exploit involved and no way this system can be fundamentally blocked. As long as Xbox 360 supports playing media from data discs, our menu system will work. Even in the very unlikely event that this feature is removed in a future system software, we have developed alternative methods by which ISO's can be selected.

Official Site: http://wasabi360.com/

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BoxZii ODD Emulator Module 2 Video and Install Tutorials

September 18th, 2011, 21:49 Posted By: wraggster

The BoxZii team released videos showing their 'Module 2' - an external full colour 2'2" TFT touchscreen panel that will allow you to control their ODD emulator device. They also previously released installation videos of the 'Module 1' ... which you can find [video=youtube;ceJ21PrioJM]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ceJ21PrioJM"]here for FAT consoles[/URL] and http://www.boxzii.com

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Xecuter CoolRunner Update

September 18th, 2011, 21:50 Posted By: wraggster

From team-xecuter.com:
[QUOTE]
We have just completed v3 of the CoolRunner mod design for the Reset Glitch Hack and have deviated quite a lot from the original schematic released by GliGli / Tiros.

Booting is now pretty much 100% accurate and is a very clean / solid install with a couple of extra features that others don't have.

Still want to keep details close to our chest as there are a lot of other cloners/copies/alternative versions of the original public schematic. Naturally you can trust Xecuter as always

Price is still on target for RRP $19.99 and should be in stores next week.

Official Site: http://www.team-xecuter.com

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Modern Warfare 3 confirmed for Eurogamer Expo

September 19th, 2011, 22:16 Posted By: wraggster

Activision has confirmed that the market-leading first-person shooter Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 will be playable at the Eurogamer Expo this week.
Taking place September 22-25, the Eurogamer Expo is the UK's largest consumer games show, with 30,000 people visiting Earls Court One over four days.
"We're delighted that Activision are making Modern Warfare 3 available to play at this year's Expo; confirming the show's status as the biggest gaming event ever to take place in the UK," offered Rupert Loman, MD of Eurogamer. "We can't wait to open the doors and share the games with over 30,000 people later this week".
The game joins a packed line-up of titles from publishers such as Sony, Nintendo, Sega, Bethesda, Capcom and Electronic Arts - as well as developer sessions from Naughty Dog, DICE, Human Head, IO Interactive and Team Ninja.
GamesIndustry.biz will be hosting it's annual Career Fair in association with BAFTA, TIGA and UKIE, and the Indie Games Arcade will showcase 12 titles from independent talent.

http://www.gamesindustry.biz/article...eurogamer-expo

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Fortresscraft passes 500,000 downloads

September 19th, 2011, 22:36 Posted By: wraggster

Projector Games' Xbox Live Indie Game, heavily inspired by Mojang's Minecraft, had grossed a million dollars from 350,000 copies sold by the beginning of last month. The intervening weeks have taken that total past the 500,000 mark, with the developer taking to Twitter to say: "After only 163 days of being available, I'm incredibly proud for Fortresscraft [to] finally sell that magic half-million; thank you everyone."

http://www.next-gen.biz/news/fortres...0000-downloads

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Mastercard trialling Kinect-powered purchasing

September 20th, 2011, 00:09 Posted By: wraggster

Gizmodo reports that Mastercard is currently working on a shopping and payment system, QkR, which uses Kinect for gesture-controlled shopping. While watching an advertisement for a t-shirt, a "wave to buy" prompt appears on screen, and should the user wave a further prompt appears allowing the user to select size, colour and a stored delivery address while the ad plays on in the background.

http://www.next-gen.biz/news/masterc...red-purchasing

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Tesco fails to match Morrisons' Gears of War 3 offer

September 20th, 2011, 00:18 Posted By: wraggster

It looks as if Morrisons’ will be the cheapest place to buy Gears of War 3 on the UK High Street tomorrow.
Tesco looks to be ready to sell the game for £28, as long as you buy a £18.99 Microsoft Points card at the same time. That’s £3 more than Morrisons’ corresponding deal on the game.
The next cheapest price MCV has found on the High Street is HMV, which is selling the game for £36.99. Alternatively, if you trade-in a copy of Dead Island you can buy Gears of War 3 for just £1.99.
The cheapest online seller is the freshly competitive Best Buy, which is offering the game for £32.99. Blockbuster is charging just £34.99.

http://www.mcvuk.com/news/read/tesco...3-offer/084941

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GameStation giving Gears of War 3 away for free - under one condition

September 20th, 2011, 00:21 Posted By: wraggster

Yes, that’s right. A copy of Gears of War 3 can be yours. For free. Tomorrow. At Gamestation’s Birmingham New Street store.
Is there a catch? No, not really. Well, we say not really. There is one. A tiny one.
You have to be one of the first ten customers in the queue. Not so bad, eh? Oh, and you have to have the Gears of War 3 skull icon shaved into your head by the on-site barber.
“We know that Gamestation customers are committed gamers and Gears of War fans are some of the most passionate out there,” head of UK PR at GAME Neil Ashurst stated.
“We wanted to give these fans a way of showing their commitment on the day Gears of War 3 launches and look forward to seeing how many fans are willing to take this ultimate hair challenge.”
The event kicks off at 9am tomorrow (September 20^th).

http://www.mcvuk.com/news/read/games...ndition/084939

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Broken Xbox 360 converted into an arcade controller

September 20th, 2011, 00:35 Posted By: wraggster


Like many Xbox 360s out there, [Aaron’s] console succumbed to the dreaded three red lights of death. Since it seemed to be unrepairable, there wasn’t a lot that could be done with it other than throw it out. Rather than be wasteful however, [Aaron] thought of a great way to reuse the console’s outer shell.
He’s a big fan of fighting games, and as everyone knows, this genre is best played with an arcade-style controller. The 360’s shell seemed to be just about the right size, so he gutted it and got busy constructing his own arcade controller. With the console cleared out, he installed all of his arcade bits, wiring them to a stripped third-party Xbox controller.
He installed a four port USB hub to the front of the console, enabling use of the 360’s USB ports, and rewired the power button to trigger the Xbox Guide button. A shiny coat of paint later, and he was ready to play.
Keep reading to see a short video of [Aaron's] arcade stick in action, and check out the picture gallery he put together of the controller’s construction.

http://hackaday.com/2011/09/18/broke...de-controller/

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XBOX CHART: Space Marine soars skywards

September 20th, 2011, 01:09 Posted By: wraggster

Koch Media and Techland's Dead Island secures itself another week at the top of this week's UK Xbox 360 sales chart followed once again by THQ and Relic's Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine at No.2.

Deus Ex: Human Revolution finishes the week at at No.3, followed by Driver: San Francisco at No.4, Rugby World Cup 2011 at No.5 and Rise of Nightmares at No.6.

Oddly, Red Faction Armageddon has somehow clawed its way back to No.7 ahead of Lego Pirates of the Carribean at No.8 and Zumba Fitness, which climbs from No.24 to No.9.

Rounding off the top ten is Duke Nukem: Forever, which moves for places up to No.10.



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Here's the full top ten for the week ended September 17.

01. Dead Island (Deep Silver)
02. Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine (THQ)
03. Deus Ex: Human Revolution (Square Enix)
04. Driver: San Francisco (Ubisoft)
05. Rugby World Cup 2011 (505 Games)
06. Rise of Nightmares (Sega)
07. Red Faction Armageddon (THQ)
08. Lego Pirates of the Caribbean (Disney)
09. Zumba Fitness (505 Games)
10. Duke Nukem Forever (Take 2)

http://www.computerandvideogames.com...oars-skywards/

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Microsoft in talks with Comcast, Verizon for 'Live TV' service

September 20th, 2011, 01:20 Posted By: wraggster

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Gboot - a ReBooter in Development for the Reset Glitch Hack

September 20th, 2011, 01:45 Posted By: wraggster

The Russian Team over at hackfaq.net is working on a ReBooter (hot-reboot of the console into a hacked 360 kernel allowing unsigned XDK software - like done for the SMC (JTAG) hack before) for the Reset Glitch Hack (RGH):
[QUOTE]
Gboot is working
Today it's not a great day, for the J-Tag owners. After some weeks with a lot of work, it is real.
Gboot is running. Gboot is the first kind of rebooter for the Glitch Hack.
Gboot ist no rebooter, like Freeboot. It can actual only boot one game at the time. Now it is a developer version, but there come a ready complete rebooter.
Ok what must you do, to play a game? You need a working Glitch Hack and a dump of the nand.
So why a dump of the nand? We create a nand image with a hacked 13599 Kernel and hardcoded gamepath.
Ok now lets go to Xell Reloaded, we put our fresh generated xenon.elf to a USB drive and plug in into the xbox.
Power on your xbox and enjoy the show.
Yes it works the first game, with a Glitch Hack.
We work hard, that you can enjoy a dashboard like the original, but actual it can only boot a default.xex an nothing other.
And now we feel sorry, for all the J-Tag owners. But guys you are out.
This is a developer version, be patience a public tool comes in a few weeks.

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

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Windows Phone Starter Kit for Wordpress hopes to lure developers, beef up marketplace

September 20th, 2011, 15:07 Posted By: wraggster

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Microsoft in partner talks to bring more cable TV to 360

September 20th, 2011, 15:15 Posted By: wraggster

Microsoft is coming closer to finalising a deal which will see live cable TV services coming to the Xbox 360 in the US, speaking to established player Comcast and relative newcomer Verizon in a run-in to a partnership deal, a report has claimed.
Citing sources close to the company, a report by Digiday has claimed that the cable deal which Microsoft announced at E3 could be launching in the Autumn.
Microsoft, sources say, is looking to make allies rather than enemies from existing cable companies by facilitating the spread of their services, offering tightly targeted advertising and an install base of 35 million Xbox Live gold account members.
That install base would mean a raft of potential new customers for cable companies, who wouldn't need set top boxes or install processes, instead being ready to receive cable on a demostration or permanent basis, with an established billing system already built in to their hardware.
Previewing the forthcoming cable system last week at Microsoft's investor conference, Steve Balmer said that the offering would be live by the holiday season, with "dozens or hundreds of additional video content suppliers," providing "news, sports, and your favorite channels."

http://www.gamesindustry.biz/article...able-tv-to-360

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20,000 retailers hold midnight opening for Gears Of War 3

September 21st, 2011, 00:32 Posted By: wraggster

The Gears Of War 3 launch saw 20,000 different stores around the world open at midnight. One of those was GAME's flagship shop in London, which attracted 500 gamers.
"Yesterdays launch of 'Gears of War 3' kicked off the biggest season of blockbuster games in the history of Xbox 360," said Phil Spencer, Microsoft Corporate VP.
"The team at Epic Games has raised the bar yet again and we're extremely excited to see fans around the world get their hands on the game and jump into the action."
The game has been well received by critics, earning a Metacritic score of 91.
"This is our biggest 'Gears' game yet, and even though it's the third instalment in the trilogy, it's the easiest to jump into if you're a new fan," added Epic's Cliff Bleszinski.
"We've added more co-operative game play options and built in accessibility features throughout the game to make it approachable and fun for new players and series veterans alike."

http://www.gamesindustry.biz/article...gears-of-war-3

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Battlefield 3 beta begins next week

September 21st, 2011, 00:43 Posted By: wraggster

EA has announced that an open beta test of Battlefield 3's multiplayer mode will begin on September 29.
Those who have pre-ordered the game through EA's distribution service Origin, or who bought the limited edition of last year's Medal Of Honor, will be able to access the beta on September 27.
The beta, which will be available to download from the Xbox Live Marketplace, PlayStation Store and Origin, features a single map, Operation Métro in Paris, and runs until October 10.

http://www.next-gen.biz/news/battlef...gins-next-week

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Crytek to develop Homefront 2

September 21st, 2011, 01:09 Posted By: wraggster

THQ has announced that a sequel to its Homefront FPS is in the works which will be produced by Crytek.
The Crysis creator picks up development duties for the second instalment in the war franchise, after Kaos Studios produced the first game. This was released back in March on Xbox 360, PS3 and PC.
The yet-to-be-named sequel will be released in THQ’s fiscal 2014 on consoles and PC. It is set in the year 2027 after the US has been crippled by the fictional Greater Korean Republic.
"Selecting Crytek to take Homefront forward underscores our strategy of working with the industry’s best talent,” said THQ’s exec VP of core games Danny Bilson.
“With Crytek's industry-leading technology and legendary experience in the FPS genre, we're supremely confident that the next Homefront will deliver triple-A quality experience that players demand.”
Crytek founder, CEO and president Cevat Yerli added: “We see Homefront as a really strong universe that has a lot of potential and that has been expertly created and marketed by THQ.
“We believe that bringing our level of quality, creativity and production values to the next Homefront title creates an opportunity for both THQ and Crytek to deliver a truly blockbuster game.
“It's really important to us that THQ has the faith in giving us a lot of creative freedom over one of its most important properties to allow us to bring the Homefront world to life in a new and innovative way.”

http://www.mcvuk.com/news/read/cryte...front-2/084999

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Xbox Marketplace update: Burnout Crash

September 21st, 2011, 01:16 Posted By: wraggster

Microsoft's released the most recent Xbox Live Marketplace schedule and there's plenty in it to spend your pretend Microsoft money on.

Burnout Crash arrives tomorrow - September 21. It's a spin-off of the racing series, ditching the racing part altogether to focus on the crashing from an arcade-style top-down perspective.

Other highlights include the 'Lonesome Road' DLC expansion for Fallout: New Vegas out today, and the arrival of Resident Evil 4 and Crysis 2 on the digital download service, Games on Demand.

http://www.computerandvideogames.com...burnout-crash/

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Verizon not talking about Xbox TV service now, but 'stay tuned'

September 21st, 2011, 01:20 Posted By: wraggster

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Mad Catz fully responsible for relaunch of Rock Band 3

September 21st, 2011, 01:29 Posted By: wraggster

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Rare studio tour shows that Kinect is the centerpiece these days

September 21st, 2011, 01:37 Posted By: wraggster

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Konami announces Boom Boom Dance

September 21st, 2011, 01:41 Posted By: wraggster

Konami has lifted the lid on its new Kinect music game, Boom Boom Dance, currently in development for Xbox Live Arcade.
As reported on Gamasutra, it's a dance game with a difference. Rather than following prescribed on-screen routines, you'll freestyle your way through the tracks ensuring you hit markers in time with the music.
Slap your eyes on the trailer below for a closer look.
This is the publisher's second attempt at a Kinect dancing game, following last year's underwhelming DanceMasters.

http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/20...oom-boom-dance

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£20.50 Season Pass for Forza 4

September 23rd, 2011, 00:17 Posted By: wraggster

Microsoft has announced a Season Pass for upcoming Xbox 360 racer Forza 4.
The 2,400 Microsoft Point download (£20.50) will entitle buyers to all six of the planned DLC packs for the game, which will be released between November and April 2012.
That represents a 30 per cent saving on buying all the DLC individually and in total includes 60 cars.
Season Pass holders will also get exclusive day one access to The American Muscle Car Pack which includes ten cars. Amongst them are the 1965 Pontiac GTO, the 1969 Shelby GT500 428CJ, the 1967 Dodge Cornet W023 and the 1968 Pontiac Firebird.
Those who pre-order the game are also entitled to the Launch Bonus Car Pack. That includes the 2011 Koenigsegg Agera, the 2011 RUF RGT-8, the 1965 Ford Mustang GT Coupe, the 2011 Tesla Roadster Sport and the 1997 Lexus SC300.
Microsoft has confirmed that the Indianapolis Motor Speedway will be officially licensed and playable in the game. A demo for the game will land on Xbox Live on October 3^rd.
Forza 4 will be released on October 14^th.

http://www.mcvuk.com/news/read/pound...forza-4/085161

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Six-month Kinect roadshow revealed

September 23rd, 2011, 00:24 Posted By: wraggster

Microsoft has outlined dates for a six-month Kinect tour which will visit UK shopping centres, Disney on Ice shows and The Clothes Show.
The ‘Your Kinect Experience Tour’ kicks off in late September and will run to March. Consumers will be able to play several upcoming games compatible with the Xbox 360 Kinect motion accessory, including Kinect Disneyland Adventures, Kinect Star Wars, Kinect Sports: Season 2 and Dance Central 2.
Attendees will be given a special RFID wristband during the experience which allows them to share everything they see on their Facebook page. Prizes will be up for grabs and discount vouchers will be handed out for Kinect Xbox 360 bundles.
Visitors will also be able to receive a free printed picture of themselves in their favourite game, as well as test out the Xbox Live capabilities of Windows Phone.
People will even get the chance to go up on stage and play Kinect at The Clothes Show at the Birmingham NEC in December.
Microsoft’s director of Xbox and Entertainment Stephen McGill said: “We are delighted to be taking Kinect on tour again this year. With a product as innovative as Kinect it’s only fair that the tour experience matches that. Not only will consumers receive a personalised experience it will be completely integrated with Facebook using RFID technology to create a unique trial experience.”
The full dates for the Kinect UK tour are listed below:
- Metro Centre, Gateshead, UK – September 29th to October 23rd
- Westfield Shopping Centre, Shepherd’s Bush, London, UK - October 26th to 28th November 2011
- Clothes Show LIVE, NEC, Birmingham, UK – December 2nd to 7th
Kinect Disneyland Adventures Tour
- Newcastle Metro Radio Arena: Oct 7th to 9th
- Disney Inspiration Store, Oxford Street, London: Oct 21st to 27th
- London Wembley Arena: Oct 28th to 30th
- Birmingham NEC: Nov 4th to 6th
- Sheffield Arena: Nov 11th to 13th
- Nottingham Arena: Nov 18th to 20th
- Sheffield Arena: March 9th to 11th
- Birmingham NEC: March 16th to 18th
- Liverpool Echo: March 23rd to 25th

http://www.mcvuk.com/news/read/six-m...evealed/085155

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Tropico 4 for Xbox 360 on slow banana boat, delayed until Oct. 18

September 23rd, 2011, 01:11 Posted By: wraggster

The release date for the Xbox 360 version of banana republic dictatorship simTropico 4 has been moved to October 18. The game's previous launch window was "mid-September," but a representative for publisher Kalypso Media confirmed the new date for us today.

The PC version of Tropico 4 is available now, and although it isn't radically different in terms of visuals from its predecessor, it's a better and more focused experience.

http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/tr...d-until-oct-1/

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Matrix Glitcher Speed Test and NAND Flasher

September 23rd, 2011, 11:44 Posted By: wraggster

The Matrix team released a video showing the speed of their Matrix Glitcher RGH modchip and also announced the release of their own NAND Flasher:
[QUOTE]
Some people wrote to us asking how quick the Matrix Glitcher is in booting Xell.
Here is a video we found on the web. We believe that a third party test done by a professional installer is worth more than a thousand words we could wrote:


The Matrix NAND Programmer is shipping!
The first batch of Matrix NAND Programmer has been assembled and is shipping to our resellers.
It features a PIC18F2455 microcontroller for stable and quick reading/writing of all NAND models available on the different XBOX360 models. The Matrix NAND programmer is also fully compatible with NANDPRO 2.0e and several other third party programming tools.



Features:
* Fast USB SPI 360 NAND programmer.
* Fully compatible with all XBOX360 NAND models.
* Fully compatible with NandPro2.0e Software and other third party software.
* Easily reprogrammable with via USB connector.
* Quick reading and writing times.
* Microchip based for enhanced stability.

Official Site: http://www.infinitymod.com/

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Xeno360 - RGH chip and NAND Flasher

September 23rd, 2011, 11:44 Posted By: wraggster

Another new modchip for the Reset Glitch Hack (RGH) and 360 NAND Flasher has been announced, this time by the team behind the xK3y:
[QUOTE]
xeno360 features:
* Run unsigned code on Xbox 360/Xbox 360 Slim!
* Easy-to-use Xbox NAND flasher/reader with USB interface
* Compatible with all Xbox 360, both Fat and Slim (except Xenon)
* Quicksolder interface - only 3 wires to solder! (Slim models only. Fat Xbox 360 models require 11 wires.)
* Bulletproof design with high quality components and rock solid Actel FPGA
* Both MCU and FPGA fully updatable via USB


Official Site: http://xeno360.com

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Wasabi 360 Ultra Demonstration - AP25 and XGD3

September 23rd, 2011, 11:45 Posted By: wraggster

Team Wasabi sent us an email explaining their ODD Emulator device will also work with AP25 and XGD3:
[QUOTE]
Hello!


This video demonstrates the advanced features supported by Wasabi 360 Ultra such as support for AP25 protected games and the new XGD3 format. AP25 support is implemented without relying on patching ISOs - all you need to do is copy the AP25 data file corresponding to your Xbox dashboard version to the HDD, its that simple. We also further showcase the innovative and exclusive on-screen menu system provided by Wasabi 360 Ultra.

NOTE: Final Wasabi 360S Ultra (for Xbox Slim) hardware was used to create this video; the Wasabi housing can be seen on the left hand side of the Xbox Slim.

Official Site: http://wasabi360.com/

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Microsoft patents modular Windows Phone with swappable batteries, keyboard, and gamep

September 23rd, 2011, 23:35 Posted By: wraggster

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DICE: Console players 'aren't getting less Battlefield 3'

September 25th, 2011, 18:48 Posted By: wraggster

DICE producer Patrick Liu has moved to assure players of the console versions of Battlefield 3 that they won't be getting less off a game than their PC counterparts.

Asked if fewer online players and smaller maps - Battlefield 3's multiplayer will allow for 64 players on PC and 24 players on console - will offer a lesser experience, he told the latest issue of Edge: "They're definitely not getting less of a game.

"It has the same amount of destruction and the same amount of visual fidelity. It'a also a misconception I've seen on the internet that the console version won't have jets - that's not true.

"We've scaled the maps accordingly for console so it makes the pacing all right and the balancing is good," Liu added. "If you play a big Conquest map then the map is balanced accordingly."


DICE CEO Patrick Soderlund said in March that Battlefield 3 was capable off supporting the same player count as current FPS quantity king MAG for PS3.

"A lot of people ask us about 64 versus 128 or 256 players. Technically, we can go to 256, we've tried it," he revealed. "We play tested with 128. You've got to make a game that's fun to play and, arguably, we think that the most fun you can have is when it's between 32 and 40 players."


http://www.computerandvideogames.com...battlefield-3/

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LA Noire Complete Edition spotted

September 25th, 2011, 19:05 Posted By: wraggster

An L.A. Noire Complete Edition has been spotted in the Czech Republic.

This will mark the long awaited arrival of L.A. Noire on PC. It also allows Rockstar to re-issue the game on PS3 and 360 with all existing DLC thrown in for free.

Eurogamer Czech reported that the Complete Edition will launch in November. Local publisher Cenega spilled the beans.

http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/20...dition-spotted

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C4Eva about LTplus v2.0 Progress: XGD3 Defeated

September 25th, 2011, 21:31 Posted By: wraggster

[c4eva] Successful testing of LT 2.0 with new LT-MAX feature for DVD R DL. XGD3 ixtreme isos playing fine from DVD R DL disc and/or install to HD
[E*******] does this Mean we can use or regular dual layer media / burners and layer break 1913760? Or has that changed ?
[c4eva] regular DL media, yes!
[s********] c4eva is the layer break still the same
[c4eva] more details soon!
[c4eva] normal blanks, normal burner!
[c4eva] XGD3=defeated!
[c4eva] LT Max=Maximum capacity!

There's no release date for now. The new 0800 FW (which passed to from v2.0 to v3.0) for VAD6038 and DG-16D2S drives will probably come out first:
[QUOTE]
Rips full ISO (XGD2 and XGD3), including correct AP2.5 data. Not released yet. Waiting on supporting software (Xbox Backup Creator/abgx360) to be completed, and testing to be completed on Lite-On 0800.

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

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Squirt360 Prototype Pictures

September 25th, 2011, 21:32 Posted By: wraggster

The team behind the actel-based Squirt360 RGH modchip sent us this news:
[QUOTE]
Here the first picture of SQUIRT360, just sent to developers for programming, beginning next week we ship them to BETA TESTERS and MAIN FORUMS for REVIEW and COMPARISON

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

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A Post from Stepto Regarding Console Suspensions

September 25th, 2011, 21:33 Posted By: wraggster

Hi everyone, Stephen Toulouse here, "Stepto" on Xbox LIVE and the weekly Major Nelson Radio podcast. Most of you know me as the head of the Policy and Enforcement team for Xbox LIVE.

As I have noted many times on the podcast, the enforcement team exists to help protect the LIVE experience. One of the ways we do that is to prevent consoles from accessing the service that are involved in bad behavior such as cheating, fraud, running unauthorized software on the service, or playing illegitimate copies of games (to name a few). For the vast majority of our actions, our team reviews a lot of data, examines the behavior, and then we take action. In some cases, very rarely, we use software features on the Xbox itself to help us take action.

Recently, it was brought to our attention that a number of customers had concerns about the validity of a recent ban of their individual consoles, which they feel had been triggered inaccurately. In this case, the bans were related specifically to modded consoles. I take these claims very seriously, and after an initial investigation we have confirmed that a handful of banned consoles did in-fact appear to not have been modified or tampered with. We’re still conducting our review but the cause appears to be a software issue, not an error on the part of the enforcement team’s normal actions. It’s very specific and occurred between August 29 and September 9, affecting a very small percentage of users.

One of the most serious actions my team can take is to prevent a console from accessing Xbox LIVE. We make every effort to be conservative when taking that action. If there is any doubt that this step was taken incorrectly, we want to address it while at the same time protecting the service for our customers.

Therefore, while we are still conducting a thorough investigation, the enforcement team is taking the step of reversing the bans for the tiny set of impacted consoles in that time period. Again, while it’s an extremely small percentage of impacted consoles, the good news is that we know exactly which ones. If you believe you are affected, simply try to reconnect your console to Xbox LIVE. If it cannot still connect, that console was not a part of this issue.

Within a few business days, we will issue the primary account holder on the impacted console a credit for three months of Xbox LIVE Gold and 1600 Microsoft points. Since we know exactly who is affected, those customers do not need to take any action. Everything will be applied automatically. No keys or tokens to redeem, no other action to be taken.

I’d like to take a moment to personally apologize for the inconvenience this has almost certainly caused to the affected customers. You have my assurance that we are investigating how this error occurred and have since discontinued use of the software that was used. The Xbox LIVE community is the best out there and we regret the inconvenience this may have caused for our loyal members.

If you listen to our podcast (and I know many hundreds of thousands of you do!) you know I give out my email address in every episode. I read all the email there, and it’s Stepto@Xbox.com. Please feel free to give me your feedback. If you feel you have been affected by this situation, be sure to use www.xbox.com/support/contact so we can get you to the appropriate people to help.

As always, you guys are the reason I come into work every day. Thank you so much for making Xbox LIVE an amazing community and I look forward to hearing from you.
http://majornelson.com/2011/09/23/a-...ent=FeedBurner

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XeLL Reloaded 23/09/2011 '2Stages'

September 25th, 2011, 21:34 Posted By: wraggster

Cancerous, [cOz], Ced2911, GliGli, RedLine99 and Tuxuser are proud to release a new official version of XeLL-Reloaded (Codename: 2Stages) following the release of the new homebrew Xbox 360 reset glitch hack v1.1:

What's new/fixed:
* Fixed web interface download speed.
* Fixed boot loop messages not clearing properly.
* Added a 15 sec delay to have a chance to cancel updxell process.
* Fixed ata init.
* Libxenon improvements (controller leds,...).

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

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Reset Glitch Hack v1.1

September 25th, 2011, 21:35 Posted By: wraggster

GliGli released a new version of the Reset Glitch Hack (RGH) that allows you to run homebrew software on any 360 console (except Xenon).

What's new/fixed:
* Falcon support.
* Per hardware revision SMC patches (no more need for Jasper donor smc on fats).
* Adding sanity check on 1BL key.
* Adding support for donor CB on fats.
* Debug pin on fats and slims.
* New Xell with some bugs fixed.
* Now using 270pf capacitor for slims, many reported it works better.

http://www.xboxhacker.org/index.php?topic=16949.0

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Mupen64-360 v0.96 beta

September 25th, 2011, 21:36 Posted By: wraggster

GliGli released a libXenon a Nintendo64 emulator for the homebrew 360. From the Readme/NFO:
[QUOTE]
Description
Mupen64-360 is a Nintendo64 emulator for the Xbox 360, it's powered by libxenon and it's a port of Wii64 (which itself was a port of Mupen64).

History
v0.96 Beta: First binary release

Credits
Wii64 / Mupen64 teams (guess why
GliGli (Xbox 360 port)
Ced2911 (GUI library)
Razkar (Backgrounds)
Everyone that contributed to libxenon...
[/I]

http://libxenon.org/index.php?topic=180.0

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Librasoft: Update on the gligli Hack v1.1

September 25th, 2011, 22:46 Posted By: wraggster

Following the update of the hack gligli in v1.1 which was released today, the chip X360Gliptchip Librasoft incorporated in its first version of a 270pF capacitor, which allows both to maintain its competitive edge, while responding to the udapte the hack version 1.1. The second good news is the update of version 1.1, which also provides the timing for missing Xbox falcons, which can easily flash the X360Gliptchip using the 360gcProg software now available in this article . Source: http://www.x360glitchip.com

http://x360.gx-mod.com/modules/news/...p?storyid=3563

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Librasoft: 360gcProgv1.1 Premier software flash chip Glitch

September 25th, 2011, 22:47 Posted By: wraggster

The 360gcProg of Librasoft is the first software to facilitate the global flash your chip glitch hack.
In a very simple to use, this software allows the chip to flash x360glitchip but also all the other chips featuring a JTAG port.
This is compatible JTAG cable with LPT and USB JTAG cables based on FTDI Open Source. 360gcProgv1.1 Official website: http://www.x360glitchip.com

http://x360.gx-mod.com/modules/news/...p?storyid=3564

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x360ce SVN r446

September 26th, 2011, 02:40 Posted By: wraggster

via http://www.emucr.com/

x360ce SVN r446 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:
r445
Preparing to new INI structure.
Fix: Microsoft.DirectX is attempting managed execution inside OS Loaded lock exception
r446
Refactoring. INI updated for backwards compatibility.

http://code.google.com/p/x360ce/

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Console Crysis released next week

September 26th, 2011, 21:57 Posted By: wraggster

Crytek's 2007 PC shooter Crysis will be released for Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 on October 4, publisher EA has confirmed.

The game will only be available as a digital download: for 1600 Microsoft Points from the Xbox Live Marketplace, or £15.99 from the PlayStation Store. The 2007 original has been remastered, runs on CryEngine 3 and supports stereoscopic 3D.

http://www.next-gen.biz/news/console...ased-next-week

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Battlefield 3 performance boosted impressive 38% by update

September 26th, 2011, 22:11 Posted By: wraggster

Battlefield 3 is already looking like a stunner but when it comes to the Battlefield 3 beta you can squeeze an extra 38 percent from that bad boy.

Just download NVIDIA's 285.38 beta drivers, which are optimised for Battlefield 3 itself.

Don't just take our word for it either, Rendering Architect at DICE Johan Andersson is working on Battlefield 3 and recommended them specifically via Twitter.

Here's what the drivers do:

What's New in Version 285.38

Increased performance in Battlefield 3 by up to 38%.
Improved overall stability and image quality in Battlefield 3.
Improved compatibility and performance for RAGE.
Added or updated SLI profiles for Battlefield 3, Dead Island, Diablo III, Dragon Age 2, Need for Speed: The Run, and Saints Row: The Third.
Fixed a performance regression in 285.27 beta running Crysis 2 (DirectX 9)

http://www.computerandvideogames.com...-38-by-update/

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Kinect will 'take time' to win over core critics

September 26th, 2011, 22:15 Posted By: wraggster

Kinect causes something of a divide between hardcore gamers, with those who want to give it a chance fighting against those who write it off as a family friendly gimmick.

Forza 4 integrates Kinect right across the board, from using it as a proximity sensor in the car-perving Autovista mode or an invisible steering wheel in the main game, should you choose.

It's still very much a secondary control system (perhaps even laying claim only to third or fourth choice considering actual steering wheels). But when we asked Forza 4 creative director Dan Greenawalt whether Kinect will play a more central role in Forza in the future he seemed optimistic.

"You can learn from the old way but you can't just fill it in there," Greenawalt pointed out.

"I remember a time ten years ago when everyone was saying 'A first person shooter can never be done on console because of the controller. It'll never work." Everyone was certain of that and then we had Halo.

"We even had GoldenEye before that and people ignored that even though it proved it, and Halo proved it in a bigger way. Now we all expect the best first-person shooters are played, it seems, on console.

"Kinect is the same thing - it takes time," he continued. "You should be charging us as the innovation engine of the industry; the big franchises, the big teams, the creative powerhouses. Players should be charging us to surprise them."

"I think most people think, 'Well I haven't thought of anything and so therefore there's nothing that can be done.' That's just silly, our job is to come up with new ideas and surprise people.

http://www.computerandvideogames.com...ays-forza-dev/

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Deadliest Warrior: Ancient Combat brings first two games to retail this December

September 26th, 2011, 22:20 Posted By: wraggster

If you haven't purchased either of the downloadable brawlers based on Spike TV's historically violent Deadliest Warrior franchise, nor have you seen any episodes of the show itself, then let's be frank: You're just not that into Deadliest Warrior. That's fine! Different strokes, and all that. Still, if you'd like to have as complete and deadly an entertainment experience as is possible, you'll want to grab Deadliest Warrior: Ancient Combat when it lands at retailers this December.

The $29.99 package includes the original Deadliest Warrior: The Game and Deadliest Warrior: Legends, as well as all the downloadable content (and a few new weapons and arenas) for each. It also includes some never-before-aired episodes of the show for diehard fans. We hear the hypothetical skirmish between Lumberjacks and Investment Bankers is particularly engaging.

http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/26/de...games-to-reta/

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Patent suggests Windows Phone slider

September 26th, 2011, 22:29 Posted By: wraggster

A new patent suggests Microsoft is working on a new Windows Phone model that features gaming controls.
The patent, filed with the USPTO and spotted byMobile Mag (via SPOnG), shows designs for a slider phone similar to the Sony Ericsson Xperia Play.
The patent reveals an empty slot in the slide-out portion of the phone in which you can place various parts. According to the patent image, below, one of these is a gaming controller, which includes face buttons and what looks like a thumb nub.
The Xperia Play, the word's first PlayStation Certified smartphone, launched in April. It runs Android 2.3 Gingerbread and features a number of PS one Classics and exclusive titles.

http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/20...s-phone-slider

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XBOX CHART: Gears of War 3 debuts at No.1

September 26th, 2011, 22:33 Posted By: wraggster

As expected Microsoft and Epic Games' Gears of War 3 takes No.1 on this week's UK Xbox 360 sales chart.

Following it at No.2 is F1 2011, the second big release of the week, along with Dead Island at No.3, Deus Ex: Human Revolution at No.4 and Driver: San Francisco at No.5.

Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine drops from No.2 and finishes the week at No.6 ahead of Rugby World Cup 2011, Call of Duty: Black Ops, Rise of Nightmares and LA Noire at No.7, No.8, No.9 and No.10.

Here's the full top ten for the week ended September 24.

01. Gears of War 3 (Microsoft)
02. F1 2011 (Codemasters)
03. Dead Island (Deep Silver)
04. Deus Ex: Human Revolution (Square Enix)
05. Driver: San Francisco (Ubisoft)
06. Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine (THQ)
07. Rugby World Cup 2011 (505 Games)
08. Call of Duty: Black Ops (Activision)
09. Rise of Nightmares (Sega)
10. LA Noire (Take 2)

http://www.computerandvideogames.com...debuts-at-no1/

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Virgin Gaming reveals $1.6m Battlefield 3 tournament

September 28th, 2011, 00:16 Posted By: wraggster

Virgin Gaming has teamed up with EA for the most lucrative tournament so far.
The firms are offering $1.6m to the winner of the Battlefield 3 Worldwide Conquest Tournament, which kicks off from next year. It will culminate in a live grand finale.
You can read more about it at www.Battlefieldmillions.com, and it sees EA offer a tournament rival to Call of Duty Elite, which also has a competitive gaming element with real life prizes.
“We’re always looking to raise the bar for our members, to give them truly epic gaming experiences they won’t find anywhere else and Battlefield 3 hits the mark,” said Virgin Gaming co-founder Zachary Zeldin.
“This partnership with EA and DICE is exactly the kind of relationship it takes to deliver on that goal, and we can’t be more excited to be working with them to host the greatest competitive gaming event I’ve ever seen.”
General manager at developer DICE, Karl Magnus Troedsson, added: “The Battlefield series has always been a very social experience with its best-in-class multiplayer gameplay and we’re honored to have such passionate and loyal fans. We want to give them the best Battlefield experience we’ve ever created with Battlefield 3. The Worldwide Conquest Tournament with Virgin Gaming is a great way to celebrate the gameplay and reward our fans.”

http://www.mcvuk.com/news/read/virgi...rnament/085411

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Valve still hopes for Steam on Xbox 360

September 28th, 2011, 00:21 Posted By: wraggster

PC games kingpin Valve believes there is still hope for its digital portal Steam to launch on Microsoft’s Xbox system.
Chet Faliszek, a writer at the Washington studio, told Develop that the final decision was Microsoft’s to make – suggesting that Valve’s existing deal to incorporate Steam on PS3 is not binding to any exclusivity.
Asked by Develop whether Steam arrive on Microsoft’s living-room console, Faliszek replied: “Maybe, we’ll see. That’s something Microsoft will has to decide. There’s some things going on with Portal 2 right now, but we’ll see”.
Valve’s oft-cited ‘games as a service’ initiative has in the past clashed with Microsoft’s own Xbox philosophy.

http://www.mcvuk.com/news/read/valve...box-360/085403

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Microsoft launches Xbox 360 S transfer cable

September 28th, 2011, 00:26 Posted By: wraggster

A new transfer cable is on the way from Microsoft that will allow gamers to transfer information between two of the new style Xbox 360 S consoles.
The current transfer cable allows for the transfer of information from older Xbox 360 units to the newer machines, but not for transfers between two S-style units.
It also allows transfers between older models in some conditions e.g 20GB to 120GB.
It’s unclear when the new cables will appear on the High Street, or how much they will retail for.
It’s also important to note that for some reason the belief has spread that the current transfer cables are single-use only. This is not true. What is true, however, is that each HDD is limited to one transfer per cable.

http://www.mcvuk.com/news/read/micro...r-cable/085394

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Xbox Live Marketplace sales bonanza, starting today [update]

September 28th, 2011, 00:38 Posted By: wraggster

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Microsoft Begins Windows Phone 7.5 (Mango) Rollout

September 29th, 2011, 00:27 Posted By: wraggster

While the news of late has focused on Apple's upcoming iPhone 5 launch, Microsoft has some news of their own on the mobile OS front. Windows Phone 7.5 is the first major overhaul of the system since the smaller, incremental NoDo updates began to roll out a few months ago. Starting this week, WP7 users should begin to see the v7.5 update roll their way. Microsoft claims that this release has a 'people-first' attitude, with a focus on multitasking, more integrated apps, better mobile Web browsing, along with personalized tools, like integrated social networking and conversation threads for connecting with the people

http://mobile.slashdot.org/story/11/...-mango-rollout

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Release date for Syndicate apparently announced

September 29th, 2011, 00:57 Posted By: wraggster

A number of reports are claiming that EA last night announced at a Las Vegas showcase that the recently revealed new Syndicate title will be released in February 2012.
That’s a lot earlier than most had expected, particularly seeing as the sequel was only officially confirmed earlier this month.
Coming in the wake of Deus Ex’s worldwide chart success, it’s perhaps no surprise to see the title described as “a unique and brutal sci-fi first-person shooter experience set in a not too distant future, where business is war”.
The original Syndicate debuted on PC in 1993 courtesy of Peter Molyneux’s UK studio Bullfrog. It took the form of an isometric, real-time RPS where players took charge of a group of four genetically enhanced cyborgs, out to fight for their owning corporation.
This new game perhaps takes the obvious route in shunning the staples of the series and instead going down the first person shooter route.

http://www.mcvuk.com/news/read/relea...nounced/085473

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Skullgirls delayed

September 29th, 2011, 01:08 Posted By: wraggster

Skullgirls, the 2D indie fighting game that was due for Xbox Live Arcade and PlayStation Network this year, has been delayed until early 2012.
In a post on the game's official blog, lead designer Peter Bartholow explains that the addition of several new features means Skullgirlswill not be released until the first three months of next year.
"Development is proceeding apace, and we'll announce a firm release date as soon as we can," he writes. "The vagaries of digital distribution and the submission process make that impossible at this point, but Skullgirls should be launching early in the first quarter of 2012.
"There are a lot of reasons behind the delay, but the over-riding one is that we're just trying to make the best game we can. As tournament attendees and forum-goers know, we’ve done extensive tweaking and added new features based on community feedback.
"While many of these things are individually small, they add up over time and can delay other tasks. Some companies call this feature creep, but we call it the extra polish that takes a game from good to great."
Designed by a competitive fighting game player and developed with the tournament scene in mind, Skullgirls sports a host of features missing from other fighting games. Our favourite is the requirement to hold down start for a full quarter of a second to pause the game, designed to prevent accidental pauses which, in tournaments, mean forfeiting the round.

http://www.next-gen.biz/news/skullgirls-delayed

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Microsoft announces new $10 Zune Music Pass, expands service to Canada

September 29th, 2011, 22:19 Posted By: wraggster

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Microsoft reportedly adding video from Comcast, Verizon, HBO to Xbox Live

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

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Over 3 million week one sales for Gears Of War 3

September 29th, 2011, 22:24 Posted By: wraggster

Gears Of War 3 has sold over three million copies worldwide in its first week on sale, and oushed the franchise lifetime sales above the one billion dollars mark.
The title is the first 360 exclusive to do so.
"Gears of War was the first killer app for Xbox 360, and the series has continued to contribute directly to the overall success of the platform ever since," said Phil Spencer, Microsoft corporate VP.
"Gears of War 3 kicked off the biggest Christmas period in Xbox history, setting the standard for the kind of amazing, action-packed experiences gamers should expect on Xbox 360 this year."
The game, developed by Epic Games, was the year's biggest launch so far, scoring the title of seventh biggest Xbox 360 game launch of all time. Around 22,000 retailers globally held special midnight events to support the game.
The game has also scored well with critics, earning a Metacritic score of 91.

http://www.gamesindustry.biz/article...gears-of-war-3

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Microsoft to build 17,000 Xboxes a week in Brazil

September 29th, 2011, 22:26 Posted By: wraggster

Microsoft has extended an existing deal with Flextronics Inc. to begin manufacturing 17,000 Xboxes a week in Brazil, allowing the units to be sold more cheaply in the territory.
Flextronics currently manufactures the publishers machines in China, but the new deal will allow Microsoft to reduce Brazilian retail prices for the units by around 40 per cent, meaning that a 4GB Xbox 360 will cost R$799 (£281) while a 350GB slim with Kinect wil cost R$1399 (£492), reports Techtudo.
Whilst those prices are still high, especially given the realtive poverty of the region, manfacturing the units in Brazil itself avoids the country's punative import taxes, which would other render hardware almost uniformly too expensive.
Alongside the hardware price reduction, Microsoft is also lowering the retail cost of Xbox LIVE Gold membership and points and producing freshly localised versions of various brand new titles. Both Sony and Microsoft have made some inroads into developing the market, which should offer a chance to extend console lifecycles considerably.

http://www.gamesindustry.biz/article...week-in-brazil

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Jonah Lomu tackles retail on October 14th

September 29th, 2011, 22:37 Posted By: wraggster

The next Rugby Challenge title will launch a week ahead of the World Cup final on October 14th, Alternative Software has announced.
Jonah Lomu Rugby Challenge is officially endorsed by the New Zealand rugby star, and the game’s publisher expects it to perform not just around the World Cup but over Christmas and beyond.
“We’re really pleased to be able to satisfy the huge demand from rugby fans across Europe by launching Jonah Lomu Rugby Challenge on Friday, October 14th,” Alternative Software MD Roger Hulley told MCV.
“With more licences, more players and more competitions than any other rugby game available, we expect Jonah Lomu Rugby Challenge to continue to sell throughout the gifting season and the coming year.”
The title has a number of official in-game licences including those for the USA Eagles, the All Blacks, Tri Nations, Super Rugby teams, Aviva Premiership Rugby, the ITM Cup and more.
Hulley says Rugby Challenge’s appeal extends beyond fans of the Rugby World Cup, with supporters of UK-specific rugby teams targeted.
“Our marketing and PR plans really kick into gear at the beginning of October, ensuring consumers will be fully aware of our activity pre- and post-release, and we’re already seeing the evidence of this with strong pre-orders both online and in-store.
“Our offering to the consumer isn’t just a game based on international rugby, but also for Welsh, Irish, Scottish and English rugby club fans with the official licenses for the Aviva Premiership, Rabo Direct Pro12 and all leading European rugby clubs.”

http://www.mcvuk.com/news/read/jonah...er-14th/085550

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Report: 360 dash update released on November 15

September 29th, 2011, 23:34 Posted By: wraggster

An internal PayPal email seen by Kotaku reveals that the new Xbox 360 dashboard will be released on November 15 - the tenth anniversary of the release of the original Xbox.
The online payment service is to be added as a billing option as part of the revamped dashboard, which was announced at E3 in June and makes greater use of Kinect's capabilities. The entire dashboard, including the Bing search engine, can be controlled by voice commands.
The update will also add a new invite system, dubbed Beacons, while cloud storage sees Microsoft keep pace with Sony, whichadded the feature earlier this year.

http://www.next-gen.biz/news/report-...ed-november-15

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Battlefield 3 beta is on Xbox Live now

September 29th, 2011, 23:45 Posted By: wraggster

As promised, the Battlefield 3 beta is now open to all Xbox 360 players via Xbox Live.

Major Nelson announced the coming of the stunning DICE shooter on his blog, encouraging everyone to jump into the Operation Métro map in Rush mode and check out the integrated Battlelog features.

http://www.computerandvideogames.com...xbox-live-now/

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King of Fighters 13 UK release date

September 30th, 2011, 00:17 Posted By: wraggster

King of Fighters 13 launches in the UK and PAL territories on 25th November, Eurogamer can exclusively reveal.
Rising Star Games assumes publishing duties on these shores.
The PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 2D fighting game had been due out in October.
Pre-order the game in the UK and you'll get a limited edition four CD soundtrack taken from the history of King of Fighters.
This is in addition to the contents of the retail box, which includes the game, a double-sided A3 poster (artwork on one side, move list on the reverse), digital art disc and reversible sleeves (design specific to format).

http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/20...k-release-date

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New Datel Xbox 360 controller packs LCD screen, parties like it's 1998

September 30th, 2011, 23:08 Posted By: wraggster

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