Achievement Junkie - Xbox 360 News

AJ 111: Viral Secrets Revealed?

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Sat, 10 Jul 2010 06:35:36 -0800

Viral Secrets Revealed? How do we know when we're being marketed to or not?

AJ 110: What Did You Expect?

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Wed, 30 Jun 2010 06:35:36 -0800

What Did You Expect? How what we think we're gonna get usually taints the real thing.

AJ 109: Tell Your Friends

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Tue, 22 Jun 2010 06:35:36 -0800

Tell Your Friends. The value of seeing for yourself, versus hearing about games and products from others.

AJ 108: Make Me

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Thu, 10 Jun 2010 06:35:36 -0800

Make Me. The ups and downs of letting users create things.

AJ 107: Steal This Podcast

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Tue, 1 Jun 2010 08:35:36 -0800

Steal This Podcast. We talk about piracy, Batman and suntan lotion.

AJ 106: Games Am Hard

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Mon, 24 May 2010 08:35:36 -0800

Why are some games so hard? We finally have a clue. We also talk about stuff.

Achievement Junkie 105 - 05/15/2010

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Sun, 16 May 2010 08:35:36 -0800

Why don't more games rip your heart out? What is an Angry Jones? What does Natalie think of Gears of War 3? How does Nelson deal with so much fan mail? Answers inside.

Achievement Junkie # 104 - 05/08/2010

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Sat, 8 May 2010 15:47:36 -0800

Achievement Junkie is back! Nelson and Natalie talk about the last 20 months and what's next for the show.

Achievement Junkie # 103 - 04/04/2010

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Sun, 4 Apr 2010 11:47:36 -0800

Is Achievement Junkie back from the dead? Nelson and Natalie talk about Tweet Defense, and how this zombie iPhone game might just resurrect the show.

Achievement Junkie # 102 - 09/24/2008

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 11:33:07 -0700

We're talking about Rock Band 2 & an upcoming Xbox Live Arcade title called Age of Booty! We bring back a question of the week & are wondering if we should pick up a second XBOX 360 now that the price dropped. Hmm... tune in for the scoop!

Achievement Junkie # 101 - 09/10/2008

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 11:13:41 -0700

We talk about hitting PAX last weekend, getting to meet a bunch of super cool community folks, including listeners of the show and site members. We also talk about Castle Crashers, Mercenaries 2: World In Flames and getting to check out Gears of War 2! Tune in for the scoop...

Achievement Junkie # 100 - 08/27/2008

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 11:33:59 -0700

We're back this week and are getting ready for the Penny Arcade Expo - also known as PAX! We discuss what you might expect to see at the Xbox booth, and talk about getting to play Viva Piñata : Trouble in Paradise, Castle Crashers and more... Tune in!

Achievement Junkie # 99 - 08/13/2008

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 09:34:35 -0700

We're talking about Geometry Wars Retro Evolved 2, Braid, the Fable 2 Pub games released on the XBLA this week and Nelson gives us his first impressions of Too Human! Tune in for the scoop...

Achievement Junkie # 98 - 07/30/2008

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 11:28:38 -0700

Nelson hit Comicon last week & tells us about the strange & wonderful things that went down in San Diego. We’re also talking about Geometry Wars Retro Evolved 2, Braid, Bionic Commando, Galaga Legions & Castle Crashers! And we share your song list for Olivia Munn’s slow-jam mix.

Achievement Junkie # 87 - 07/23/2008

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 16:43:17 -0700

We're talking about what went down behind the scenes at E3, including getting to interview the voice actors for Gears of War, Duffy - who will have a song in the upcoming title Lips, and G4's Olivia Munn. Well, I'll let Nelson talk to you about that... Tune in for the scoop.

Achievement Junkie # 86 - 07/14/2008

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 17:54:10 -0700

Its an E3-special-sode, where we talk about: Lips, We're in the Movies, Galaga Legions, the new Xbox Experience, Netflix hitting the Xbox Live Market Place and Gears of War 2. Tune in for the goods...

Achievement Junkie # 85 - 07/10/2008

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 23:44:22 -0700

Its pre-E3 week and we reflect back on last years event where Nelson pushed the "universal console" concept. We also talk about Skizoid - this weeks XBLA title (and one of the best co-op XBLA arcade titles IMO), Battle Field Bad Company, and listener mail! Tune in for the scoop...

Achievement Junkie # 84 - 07/02/2008

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 10:48:42 -0700

We're discussing Microsoft’s new DRM tool, advertisements in your entertainment and a real time strategy game that tickled Nelson's nerd-muscle. Games we talk about include Age of Empires III, Halo Wars, Soul Calibur and we share YOUR thoughts on discs vs. downloads. Tune in for the goods.

Achievement Junkie # 83 - 06/25/2008

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 11:03:30 -0700

Discs versus downloadable content? That's only one of many discussion topics today. We also talk about the rating for our podcast, Ticket to Ride - this weeks XBLA title, No Country for Old Men - a movie that's available on the Xbox Live Marketplace and listener mail! We also include a time-sensitive contest! Tune in for the scoop....

Achievement Junkie # 82 - 06/18/2008

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 10:35:45 -0700

Today we ask the question... is episodic content important? We also talk about last weeks Xbox Live Arcade title, Wolf of the Battlefield: Commando 3, revisit Cloning Clyde, Scene It and answer listener mail. Tune in for the scoop...

Achievement Junkie # 81 - 06/11/2008

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 11:07:30 -0700

We're talking about social networking over Facebook and twitter. We also give you our first impressions of The Bourne Conspiracy and Lego Indiana Jones - the games. We also downloaded Cloverfield (the movie) from the Xbox Live Marketplace. Tune in for all the details.

Achievement Junkie # 80 - 06/04/2008

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 10:19:35 -0700

Today we are talking about making games girlfriend-friendly, Ninja Gaiden II, Buku Sudoku and dirty bunnies on the Xbox Live Marketplace. We also answer questions regarding our show format, what you guys think of community vs. press and whether or not Gears of War is a Pick Up & Play type of game. Tune In!

Achievement Junkie - 05/21/2008

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Wed, 21 May 2008 11:30:52 -0700

What is the difference between the "gaming community" and "press"? We also discuss Gears of War, Frontlines: Fuel of War, Assault Heros 2 and answer listener mail. Tune in!

Achievement Junkie #78 - 05/14/2008

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Wed, 14 May 2008 14:52:51 -0700

Fresh off a plane from New York and suffering from a little bit of jetlag, we talk about our pre-recording jitters and what its like getting behind the scenes of a videogame industry event. We admit to having trouble dealing with our friends list, we talk about Dance Dance Revolution, Pacman CE, Gears of War 2 and include listener mail. Tune In!

Achievement Junkie # 77 - 05/07/2008

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Wed, 07 May 2008 10:55:51 -0700

We are receiving oodles of emails from other podcasters wanting to build their show - as a result, we thought we'd talk about numbers and podcasting in general. We also discuss The Bourne Conspiracy demo that hit the Xbox Live Marketplace along with listener mail. Tune In!

Achievement Junkie # 76 - 04/30/2008

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 23:51:11 -0700

Achievement Junkie is back! In this weeks episodes we confess our many feelings about the world of podcasting, we reveal a new show format, what it means to be a Microsoft MVP and how it feels to be driving down the streets of Liberty City in Grand Theft Auto 4.

Achievement Junkie #75 - 04/09/2008

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 11:15:40 -0700

This week we add a new segment called “Here’s what I want to talk about” and in it we discuss Game Informers exclusive on Gears of War 2 and Rock Band (finally) hitting Europe next month. We share your thoughts on how the achievement system is developing, and ask a new question of the week. Tune in!

Achievement Junkie # 74 - 04/02/2008

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 10:36:54 -0700

We are back this week & talk about folks who cheat on their gamerscore & the recent punishment that will scar them for life!? A Sega Dreamcast has made its way back into our lives, and you tell us what video gamer character you'd pick up at a bar, and why. Tune In!

Achievement Junkie # 73 - 03/19/2008

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 09:53:20 -0700

We crack open Rainbow Six Vegas 2 and Army of Two this week and realize its hard to find time to play. Natalie shares her first girl crush, and we talk about what you thought are some of the hardest/coolest in-game bosses ever.

Achievement Junkie # 72 - 03/12/2008

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 09:43:27 -0700

Why am I not getting achievement points!? OK...so I know the answer, but I’m not happy about it. We talk about that... The new games that hit store shelves this week and Nelson’s thoughts on Burn Out Paradise. We also share YOUR answers to last weeks question of the week and ask a new question of the week. Tune in!

Achievement Junkie # 71 - 03/05/2008

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 09:09:04 -0800

New downloadable content for Kareoke Revolution American Idol Encore makes our hearts happy! We talk about new releases for the Xbox 360, making tv shows into games, Jack Thompson making friends with Electronic Arts and how important graphics are to you! Tune In!

Achievement Junkie # 70 - 02/27/2008

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 10:22:45 -0800

We discuss all of the news that was released during the Game Developers Conference last week, including the announcement of Gears of War 2, Fable 2 and XNA content on the Xbox Live Marketplace. We hold a mini-memorial for the HD DVD drive and talk about last weeks Xbox Live Arcade title N+. The Cranky Gamers are back to share their thoughts on XNA content, and you tell us what GDC announcements you were excited about... and not so excited about. Tune In!

Achievement Junkie # 69 - 02/18/2008

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 22:25:52 -0800

We respond to a listener & recommend our favorite Xbox Live Arcade titles, tell you how we feel about Commanders: Attack of the Genos & share how our listeners feel about Capcom’s recent comments about the install time for Devil May Cry 4 on the PS3. Tune in!

Achievement Junkie # 68 - 02/12/2008

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 10:08:13 -0800

Can our hearts really be beating for Karaoke Revolution presents American Idol Encore? Yes... Are we a little embarrassed to admit it - of course! We also chat about this weeks Xbox Live Arcade title Commanders: Attack of the Genos, Poker Smash and the new demos that hit the marketplace including Dark Messiah of Might and Magic: Elements, Conflict: Denied Ops and the Lost Odyssey trailer. We share your thoughts on games with good, and not-so-good, achievement systems and ask you a new question of the week. Tune in!

Achievement Junkie # 67 - 02/05/2008

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 10:29:44 -0800

Gears of War is more than a year old and its still gets a love letter from Natalie! We discuss new releases on the Xbox Live Marketplace, including downloadable content that will either make a make a hard-core gamer cranky OR reveal a softer side. Find out what our listeners thought of Rez HD and we reveal your thoughts on games that you believe may have used sex or sex scenes to sell more copes of the game. We ask you a new question of the week and anyone who shares an answer is eligible to win a game! Tune in or visit our forums at talkingaboutgames.com for details.

Achievement Junkie # 66 - 01/29/2008

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 08:14:33 -0800

Grand Theft Auto IV has been announced, Turok and Turning Points Fall of Liberty demos are available on the Xbox Live Marketplace and there is new downloadable content for Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter 2. We also reveal your answers to last weeks question of the week about defending the Mass Effect sex scene, and ask a new question of the week. Tune in...

Achievement Junkie # 65 - 01/22/2008

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 10:54:42 -0800

If its free, its for me! We talk about Undertow being this weeks Xbox Live Arcade title & our thoughts on last weeks release, Boogie Bunnies. There are a ton of new things on the marketplace this week, including The Club game demo, multiple game trailers and you can now download Short Films from this years Sundance Film Festival. We reveal your thoughts on how people getting to see your gamerscore and Xbox Live activity effect you and share a new question of the week!

Achievement Junkie # 64 - 01/16/2008

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 10:32:50 -0800

Is Mass Effect a sex simulator? What are the top 5 selling Xbox Live Arcade titles for 2007? How do you feel about people watching your gamerscore and gaming patterns online? These are just a few of the topics we discuss in this weeks episode. Tune in!

Achievement Junkie - 01/14/2008

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Mon, 14 Jan 2008 10:22:41 -0800

This is a quick update episode announcing our new site, Talking About Games! We talk about the launch of the new site, our new show schedule and what you can expect going forward. Visit us online at talkingaboutgames.com! We'll see you on the forums.

Achievement Junkie # 63 - 01/07/2008

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 10:18:58 -0800

The upcoming Xbox Live Arcade title, Omega 5, is alive and Nelson is hooked on Kingdom of Fire: Circle of Doom. We also discuss the differences between 1st party, 2nd party and 3rd party game developers, and hold our first (and maybe last) debate ever. Our Achievement Junkie website will be getting an update and we share the news in this weeks show.

Achievement Junkie # 62 - 12/17/2007

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Wed, 19 Dec 2007 13:12:09 -0800

This week we talk about Conan and how it feels to play a beast of a man saving half naked women in bushes. You share your thoughts of Arcadian Warriors, Grip Shift and what character in a game you would most want to be. The Cranky Gamers deliver us some international news and how they feel about movies on the marketplace.

Achievement Junkie # 61 - 12/10/2007

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Tue, 11 Dec 2007 14:09:29 -0800

What do naked painted ladies and video games have to do with each other? We get the scoop on some behind the scenes action at the Spike TV Video Game Awards. And talk about the winners, including Bioshock being chosen as the best video game of the year.

Achievement Junkie # 60 - 12/03/2007

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Tue, 04 Dec 2007 10:17:53 -0800

Achievement Junkie is back! We'll discuss this weeks release of the Xbox 360 dashboard update and talk about what you think of including sexual content in games. Nelson's dad makes a special appearance and find out how you can win your very own copy of Rock Band.

Achievement Junkie #59 - 10/28/07

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Mon, 29 Oct 2007 09:59:12 -0700

This week we celebrate Nelson hitting 10K gamerscore points, the release of the Xbox 360 Arcade and find out if you would purchase a re-release of a video game with commentary. We top it all off with an interview with Chris Miller from Vivendi games who gives us the 411 on their upcoming title Time Shift.

Achievement Junkie #58 - 10/22/07

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 21:48:39 -0700

This week Natalie tries to stump Nelson with classic video game trivia. We discuss what Nelson does behind the gold covered doors of Microsoft, and bring the Xcast and Married Gamers back to the show. We talk about your votes for this generation's classic games. We also discuss E4 (not the rapper E40).

Achievement Junkie #57 - 10/14/07

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Sun, 14 Oct 2007 23:33:44 -0700

If you're confused about the Orange Box, you should be, but we'll break it down with an Orange Box 101. We also delve into Puzzle Quest, along with the Maried Gamers and the Cranky Gamers UK. Finally, we find out how you think a non-gamer could be drawn into gaming. We also launch a new game giveaway.

Achievement Junkie #56 - 10/8/07

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Mon, 08 Oct 2007 22:46:02 -0700

This week, after losing one recording to the flashcard gremlins, we put aside our packing boxes and talked about PGR4 and Halo 3. The Married Gamers talked about the Xbox Live Arcade and Tetris Splash. We reflected on ways to get achievements in the game, and try to ignore the fish component. The Cranky Gamers UK talked about the Sex Pistols and Guitar Hero III. And we talked about the showdown between GHIII and Rockband.

Achievement Junkie #55 - 9/30/07

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 09:22:42 -0700

Nelson returns from the Halo 3 launch event in Washington, and has stories to tell. We also get the word on boobs from the Cranky Gamers UK, and introduce a new sister show, The Married Gamers, to talk about the Xbox Live Arcade.

Achievement Junkie #54 - 9/22/07

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Sun, 23 Sep 2007 16:51:19 -0700

Halo 3, Halo 3, and Halo 3. Now that that is out of the way, this week deals heavily with the Halo 3 launch, and community interaction with the Cranky gamers and the Xcast. We talk about game literacy and how casual games can help us all. We also go over some new demos on the marketplace and the fact that Nintendo shut down a major part of their website.

Achievement Junkie #53 - 9/16/07

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Sun, 16 Sep 2007 23:03:45 -0700

The Halo 3 IMAX event leads to a silly rumor, and Nelson was there to see the truth. We spent some quality time with Spider-man: Friend or Foe, despite our clearly being too old for it. The Call of Duty 4 beta hits the UK, and we get the Cranky Gamers' view. The hosts of the XCast ask this week's Halo-related question. Find out what this episode has to do with naked dwarves and soccer shirts.

Achievement Junkie #52 - 9/9/07

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 09:06:14 -0700

Natalie attended her first solo gaming event, checking out Tony Hawk's Proving Ground, Spider-Man: Friend or Foe and Bee Movie Game. Nelson started his first week with the Xbox community team and he shares his experiences with anyone willing to listen. The rumor of 23,000 banned Call of Duty players gets dealt with, and Master Chief gets waxed. Long episodes make our hearts weep, so don't get used to 26 minutes.

Achievement Junkie #51 - 8/19/07 - WRAPUP

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Sun, 19 Aug 2007 20:42:27 -0700

Mark Rein ticked off 360-devotees by explaining that bigger is bigger than smaller. Some of the games we talked about include: Callof Duty 4, Tony Hawk's Proving Ground, Turning Point: Fall of Liberty, Bioshock, Medal of Honor: Airborne, Hexic 2, Ecco the Dolphin and Track and Field. Various and sundry items were also talked about ad infinitum.

Achievement Junkie #50 - 8/11/07 - WRAPUP

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Sat, 11 Aug 2007 16:12:39 -0700

This week we discussed Bioshock, Xbox 360 price drops, Halo 3 record-breaking preorder sales, EA's policy of shutting down servers for older games, and hand animations. We also talked about a bunch of other things, but why would you buy the cow if we gave you the milk for free?

Achievement Junkie #49 - 8/4/07 - WRAPUP

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Sat, 04 Aug 2007 13:56:26 -0700

This week we spoke early and often. We spoke of Xbox 360 price drops, games like Grand Theft Auto 4 and Blacksite: Area 51 being delayed, and new Xbox Live Arcade titles Spyglass Board Games and Marathon: Durandal. We also spoke of Medal of Honor: Airborne's multiplayer component, and compared it to jumping off a structure for no apparent reason. We found out if you felt the public had ever steered you wrong about a game, and we ask a new question about a different kind of warning label on EA games. We also spoke with our hands. A lot.

Achievement Junkie #48 - 7/28/07 - WRAPUP

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Sat, 28 Jul 2007 17:14:44 -0700

If you're into Wing Commander Arena, Bioshock, Project Sylpheed, Dead Rising, Test Drive Unlimited, Stuntman: Ignition, Lost, Ace Combat, Bomberman Live, Nascar, Oblivion or Salma Hayek (especially) then we probably have you covered this week. We also covered Hayden Panetierre (figuratively speaking), pay for play OXM demos on the marketplace, an HD-DVD price drop, what the listeners think of E3 and whether or not the masses can ever be wrong.

Achievement Junkie #47 - 7/21/07 - WRAPUP

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Sat, 21 Jul 2007 16:46:44 -0700

Interviews flowed like water this week, with a slew of pre-recorded episodes including such gaming luminaries as Microsoft's Peter Moore and Aaron Greenberg, Lionhead's Peter Molyneux, Hudson Entertainment's Joel Breton and Bungie's Frank O'Connor and Brian Jarrard. We spoke about many topics, and put forth our own opinions, but we also talked about the "U.C.", if you get the drift. Games like Fable 2, Halo 3, and Bomberman Live are discussed, so sit back and enjoy.

Achievement Junkie #45 - 7/7/07 - WRAPUP

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Sat, 07 Jul 2007 15:29:21 -0700

Microsoft is about to sink $1 billion into a long-needed fix for a bitter problem. The Darkness and Overlord are evil and they both want your money - we gave them a spin. You told us whether you were hardcore or casual, and we discussed the M and AO ratings in games. We also talked about the Xbox Live Arcade games Missile Command and Carcassonne, and ask you what you expect to get out of the hype-machine that is E3.

Achievement Junkie #44 - 6/30/07 - WRAPUP

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Sat, 30 Jun 2007 07:33:24 -0700

We got an over the shoulder preview of Call of Duty 4, we played a few quick rounds of Carcassonne and we scoured the web and store shelves for a few of the latest game deals and releases. We shared some Guitar Hero II and Crackdown tips, and found out how you felt about game manuals.

Achievement Junkie #43 - 6/23/07 - WRAPUP

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Sat, 23 Jun 2007 14:18:20 -0700

PS3 is getting a light gun. Take 2 revealed that they will be receiving two big fat checks (each in the amount of $25 Million dollars) for exclusive GTA 4 content. We talk about a few new games: Tenchu Z Call of Juarez Band of Bugs We interviewed John Greiner, CEO of Hudson Entertainment - the folks who will bring us Bomerman Live. We shared game tips for Gears of War and Forza 2 We revealed your video game fantasies and ask you: Do you really use the manuals that come with a new game? Our daily episodes featured chances to win: HD-DVD drive from Goozex.com Command & Conquer 3 Pac Man CE Forza 2 Shadow Run

Achievement Junkie #42 - 6/16/07 - WRAPUP

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Sat, 16 Jun 2007 15:25:34 -0700

This week Sony launches a new community blog and Apple focuses on gaming. America's Army: True Soldier will try to get new recruits exclusively on the Xbox 360. We discussed the Xbox Live Arcade titles Prince of Persia: Classic, PacMan CE and a sneak preview of Bomberman Live. The Project Sylpheed demo hits the marketplace. We ask about your video game fantasies, and answer some of your questions about us.

Achievement Junkie #41 - 6/9/07 - WRAPUP

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Sat, 09 Jun 2007 17:25:05 -0700

This week we discussed the good and bad of Shadowrun, Overlord, Vampire Rain, Hour of Victory, Pac-man Championship Edition, and Tomb Raider: Anniversary. Nelson's dad stopped by to give us a piece of his mind, and we look at a download-only gaming future. EA launches a casual games division and we found out just how much our listeners like waiting for things. This week we also offered a coupon for the trading site goozex.com. 5 free trades and 100 free credits after your first successful trade. Coupon code: junkie-2007. And last but not least, we are giving away a copy of Shrek the Third for anyone listening to this weekly episode. Just send us an email to junkie@achievementjunkie.com with the subject line “Give Me Shrek”. One winner will be randomly selected. The contest ends Friday, June 15th at Midnight Pacific. Good luck.

Achievement Junkie #40 - WRAPUP - June 2, 2007

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Sat, 02 Jun 2007 13:22:57 -0700

Shadowrun & Forza 2 hit stores this week, and if you’re too cheap for Forza the toy racer Madtracks made it to the Xbox Live arcade. We present an achievement manifesto. We talked about the Halo 3 beta, Call of Duty 3, Hour of Victory, Gears of War and Guitar Hero III. We found out what you thought about Limited Edition achievements and ask if waiting is good for international gamers.

Achievement Junkie #39 - WRAPUP - May 26, 2007

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Sat, 26 May 2007 15:22:25 -0700

This week we previewed Medal of Honor: Airborne, caught a glimpse of a secret sequel, drooled over Brothers in Arms, Splinter Cell Conviction and Assassin's Creed trailers and begged Microsoft to rescue Shadowrun. We also gave Halo 3 another go - with better results, sampled some of that Xevious and Rush'n'Attack flava, and got your feedback on recent Xbox Live Arcade titles. Finally, we found out how real is too real in games and ask what you think of limited edition achievements?

Achievement Junkie #38 - WRAPUP - May 19, 2007

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Sat, 19 May 2007 15:13:28 -0700

We got to hang out with the homeless and Master Chief for a preview of the delayed Halo 3 beta. The new CrackDown content was broken and we fear Shadowrun might be dead on arrival. Two XBOX Live Arcade games launch, including a free one - Aegis Wing. We looked at some of those game demos that are off limits to certain regions (Pirates of the Caribbean and Eternal Sonata). Riddick heading to the 360, but not the way you wanted. COD 4 details were revealed and we ask you if video games will ever get too realistic?

Achievement Junkie #37 - WRAPUP - May 12, 2007

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Sat, 12 May 2007 12:31:56 -0700

This week we had a Forza 2 interview with Che from Turn Ten studios. We were shocked and awed over the Blacksite: Area 51 demo. We discussed the ups and downs of the Spring dashboard update. We got to preview the Halo 3 beta, and messed around with the new Crackdown Downloadable content.

Achievement Junkie #35 - WRAPUP - April, 28, 2007

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Sat, 28 Apr 2007 12:07:12 -0700

This is a mashup of all the daily episodes we’ve recorded so far this week. Some of what we talked about was: Mass Effect may leave you hanging this summer. Microsoft half-denied a Halo 3 - 1080P rumor. A big GTA IV leak was called out as a hoax and a new rumor emerged about a female playable character. Call of Duty is going modern and a listener's bean got steamed over some of our Guitar Hero II comments. The Xbox 360 got outsold by the past gen and we launched another game giveaway involving colons.

Achievement Junkie #34 - April 20, 2007

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Sat, 21 Apr 2007 14:21:04 -0700

Several new (old) Xbox games were added to the backward compatibility list – but Chronicles of Riddick may never make it. GTA IV spoilers burst onto the web and you can win $100,000 for making an Xbox Live sitcom. A violent maniac + Jack Thompson + Dr. Phil = millions of normal people having to defend video games – again. Our question of the week hopes to find out if Whack a Mole, the game ever made you whack a mole in real life. We also find out what you think makes a game great. We also reveal the winner of last week’s second chances contest.

Achievement Junkie #33 - April 12, 2007

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Thu, 12 Apr 2007 17:05:32 -0700

People are steaming about Guitar Hero II downloadable content. The Gears of War patch and the new Annex mode are a mixed bag. The spring dashboard update for the 360 is just a few weeks away. Are your thumbs ready? This week you tell us if 1,000 points per game is achievable, or even desirable and we ask what takes a game from good to great. And we launch another second chances giveaway, with five big games to choose from, and an excuse to use your crappy camera phone. We also touch on GTA IV and DRM-free music for the Zune.

Achievement Junkie #32 - April 6, 2007

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Fri, 06 Apr 2007 17:32:17 -0700

Guitar Hero II appears in stores, making us hardcore rockers, but it has competition around the next corner. Microsoft defend Elite hard drive price. Gears of War gets a new mode called Annex. Is respawning good for teamwork? We announce the correct answer to our second chances contest, we find out your etiquette rules for Xbox Live and this week we ask is it getting harder to earn the complete 1,000 achievement points per game? Our European correspondent shares some Halo 3 news.

Achievement Junkie #31 - March 30, 2007

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Sat, 31 Mar 2007 13:42:49 -0700

The Xbox 360 Elite hard drive and HDMI port are causing a lot of confusion, and we’ll stumble through explaining it. Microsoft support puts a frown on one of our listener's faces - and 34,000 Microsoft points hang in the balance. Nelson gets his light gun game, but the news bittersweet. The GTA IV trailer finally confirms that Liberty City is New York. We find out if you cave to peer pressure, and ask you to be our Xbox Live etiquette coach. We also launch a new giveaway contest, with a choice of Gears of War, Viva Piñata and Crackdown as the prize.

Achievement Junkie #30 - March 23, 2007

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Sat, 24 Mar 2007 10:12:33 -0700

Devil may Cry 4 jumps off the Sony exclusivity train, leading Sony fans to call Capcom a bunch of disloyal bastards. The 360 HDMI and beefy hard drive rumor has returned, and it’s now called ELITE. Xbox Live accounts got hacked, and Microsoft has some 'splainin to do. Take-Two, the publisher of Grand Theft Auto and other hits, might be up for sale. Who's buying? This week, we unwrap your answers to how much game news is too much and we ask you if peer pressure influences your game purchases.

Achievement Junkie #29 - March 16, 2007

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Sat, 17 Mar 2007 10:54:14 -0700

If Halo 3 lands in September, will you pay $130? The Xbox Live Video Marketplace has some serious competition - Tivo's service is finally launched and Nelson compares them head to head. Microsoft is drifting away from Xbox backward compatibility, but does it matter? This week we find out if you thought video games help or hurt in making friends, and we ask you: what is this "video game news" thing?

Achievement Junkie #28 - March 9, 2007

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Sat, 10 Mar 2007 11:10:27 -0800

The show gets a name change. Lost Planet needs a patch for its patch and Xbox Live Arcade games get bigger, making a mockery of the current hard drive. Shadowrun continues the trend of trying to ruin your social life. The PS3 ups the ante with a sweet product placement on Heroes, and a bizarre/big announcement at GDC. Meanwhile Dead Rising and Gears of War content rumors get us giddy. We uncover your answers to what next-gen means, we reveal the Crackdown contest winners, and ask you: does your 360 help or hurt you making friends?

Achievement Junkie #27 - March 2, 2007

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Sat, 03 Mar 2007 10:23:00 -0800

Grand Theft Auto 4 is officially due in October, and Jack Thompson already has a lawsuit cooking. The Xbox Live Video Marketplace secures a limited-time exclusive on old seasons of South Park, but is that a good thing? Sony insists the PS3 is still sold out in many American stores. Really? We change our minds about GRAW2 and this week we find out if Nelson is the only weirdo who craves a light gun. We also ask our new question: what puts the "next" in next gen consoles?

Achievement Junkie #26 - February 23, 2007

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Sat, 24 Feb 2007 11:22:49 -0800

The Xbox community team poked fun at the Xbox Live Arcade drought and people’s collective beans got steamed. Xbox 360 sales are up, but our favorite Microsoft console still got smacked in the face with a Wii last month, while the PS3 loses yet another exclusive. This week’s repair report is mating with the question of the week as we reveal how many 360s you know that have gone belly up. And the new question of the week is: who the hell stole my light gun? We also announce last week’s trivia contest winners – they’ll be getting copies of Heavy Weapon - and we launch another contest where the grand prize is a spankin new copy of Crackdown.

Achievement Junkie #25 - February 16, 2007

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Sat, 17 Feb 2007 11:29:08 -0800

This week we tackle Wii envy and Rayman Raving Rabbids for the 360. Crackdown needs a patch and the BBC investigates the high cost of faulty 360s. We discuss Mexican stores selling games before the release date, go over your opinion on video games preventing heart attacks and announce a Heavy Weapon trivia contest. Nelson also talked to Gamertagradio.com about the Microsoft MVP program and tried to uncover secrets about new Xbox 360 hardware.

Achievement Junkie #24 - Crackdown Roundtable

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Sun, 11 Feb 2007 23:21:38 -0800

Nelson sat down with the hosts of Podtacular, Uncle Gamer Radio, and Gamertag Radio to discuss the upcoming game Crackdown. JVB, Vicious696 and Godfree help uncover the good, bad and ugly of the full game. Is it worth your hard earned cashola?

Achievement Junkie #23 - February 9, 2007

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Sat, 10 Feb 2007 13:56:21 -0800

The Xbox Rewards program tries to make achievements even more like crack and Tivo challenges the video marketplace. It looks like a steamy weekend with Crackdown will NOT produce a Halo 3 Beta key, but maybe the game isn’t so terrible. Craig Evans, the Crackdown Product Manager, shared some behind the scenes information. This week we reveal some of your answers about whether the Xbox Live Arcade lived up to your expectations, and we springboard off of a Microsoft-sponsored study to ask a new question: can video games stop heart attacks? We also help your heart with a Valentine's day game party.

Achievement Junkie #22 - February 3, 2007

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Sun, 04 Feb 2007 11:58:08 -0800

Nelson attended a Crackdown community event and ran into his doppelganger, Microsoft's Major Nelson. - A hacker gets Mario onto the 360 and achievements get a repair, with Microsoft clarifying the rules for gamer points. - Life imitated art in a Ghost Recon style Mexican border standoff. - Last week we asked you how much story matters in games. You had a lot to say, and this week we ask you something about the Xbox Live Arcade. - (49:27)

Achievement Junkie #21 - January 26, 2007

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Sat, 27 Jan 2007 09:05:23 -0800

We issue a podcast patch in this week's repair report and we previewed some cross-platform games at a Games for Windows event. Police arrest a boy for talking trash on Live and another country wants to ban games. Microsoft's sales are up, but profits are still shaky and Wall Street ain't happy about the new 360 projections. This week we ask: does story matter in games?

Achievement Junkie #20 - January 19, 2007

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Sat, 20 Jan 2007 10:44:21 -0800

When is Germany like the Bronx? When it comes to video game laws. Nelson brings us part two of his chat with the Xbox community team where they talk about gamers getting old, We get a rundown of your answers to last week’s controversial games question, and ask about the video game age gap. This week’s repair report deals with demos and dead downloads.

Achievement Junkie #19 - January 12, 2007

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Sat, 13 Jan 2007 10:25:38 -0800

The repair report is back, with the Gears of War patch triggering a mini civil war in the fan ranks. Does all of Live need a better party system? Microsoft seems intent on forcing the Xbox 360 into your mom’s heart, trying to replace Tivo with IPTV. You told us what goes into your game purchase decisions and we ask: Are some games too controversial to be made? Nelson attended the Lost Planet launch event in San Francisco and interviewed John Porcaro, Tony Hynes and Chris Paladino from the Xbox community team.

Achievement Junkie #18 - January 5, 2007

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Sat, 06 Jan 2007 10:35:16 -0800

The Xbox 360 wins the holiday console battle by a nose, Nelson gets in touch with his secret feelings and you get one more way to try out Halo 3. German ratings overseers protect gamers from their own evil thoughts and the Microsoft game Crackdown. The repair report turns to rumors, as a dark, grainy photo ignites speculation about an upgraded 360 in development. This week we reveal how you want to be a better gamer, and ask: What in the hell goes into your decision to buy a new game?

Achievement Junkie #17 - December 29, 2006

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 10:09:55 -0800

Today is crack day on the podcast: Microsoft pimps Halo 3 beta invites for Crackdown, a hacker claims he cracked copy protection for HD DVDs and a forum post cracks a secret code behind downloadable content. In the repair report, hearts were broken and lives nearly destroyed when Live matchmaking died this Wednesday night. The rumor mill gets a Virtua Fighter correction and a new Merc 2 rumor. And this week we look at your wishlist games and we ask: how can you be a better gamer in 2007?

Achievement Junkie #16 - December 22, 2006

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Fri, 22 Dec 2006 11:54:31 -0800

A leading developer says Gears of War is too simple, but also good for the industry. Thieves and developers who liked the PS3 are forced to pick the Xbox 360 as their backup plan. Nelson continues the weekly repair report, and we run a list of games we'd love to see get made. As usual we also cover what's new in stores, new on the site, and new in the hearts and minds of our listeners.

Achievement Junkie #15 - December 15, 2006

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Fri, 15 Dec 2006 11:33:51 -0800

This week's theme is "YOU WIN SOME, YOU LOSE SOME", with Xbox 360 struggling in Japan but winning in the US, and our results at the Xbox Community awards. We introduce a new "Repair Report", and talk about the future of user created games. In other news: Halo 3 beta codes were up for sale (naughty, naughty) and the backwards compatibility list gets an update.

Achievement Junkie #14 - December 8, 2006

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Fri, 08 Dec 2006 13:51:29 -0800

Nelson's 360 is back from the dead, but is it really his? Microsoft takes the Xbox 360 south and expects huge worldwide sales this year. We wonder whether there is any room for gaming on television. An analyst predicts bad times ahead for EA. Halo 3's beta signup disappoints some, and we serve up a hot helping of the usual marketplace news, with a side of listener mail.

Achievement Junkie #13 - December 1, 2006

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Fri, 01 Dec 2006 09:54:56 -0800

Natalie interviewed Popcap Games founder John Vechey about developing for the arcade and the fun new game Heavy Weapon. Nelson's dad returns to help him through a tragedy. Xbox 360 production costs drop, and it could be good for 360 buyers next year. Microsoft also warns Live account fakers to "keep it real". You may now begin camping for Halo 3, and if that's not enough, enjoy our new logo and your very own listener mail.

Achievement Junkie #12 - November 24, 2006

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Fri, 24 Nov 2006 07:08:11 -0800

Microsoft celebrated Xbox 360’s first birthday with the launch of the Video Marketplace, but it still has some growing up to do. Are you being watched? We discuss the dark side of friend’s lists. Small Arms rocks the Xbox Live Arcade. Playstation 3 missed its launch numbers, in more ways than one, which might be good news for Sony fans. The Xbox 360 is selling too many games and that might be bad news for Microsoft. PLUS: listener mail!

Achievement Junkie #11 - November 17, 2006

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Fri, 17 Nov 2006 08:12:48 -0800

Call of Duty 3 had a rough week, while Gears of War had a damn good one and Natalie admits to a GroWing problem. PS3 launches to crowds of campers and ebay sellers and the HD-DVD drive mates with a PC. Bungie announces that Halo 3 is getting closer to your hot little hands while Spartans could be getting pretty in pink. We end the show with stuff in stores, stuff on the marketplace, stuff on the site, and the lovely and talented listener mail. (45:58)

Achievement Junkie #10 - November 10, 2006

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Fri, 10 Nov 2006 08:12:32 -0800

HD downloads are real and Nelson gets help to deal with being wrong. A lawsuit claims that a Dead or Alive Xtreme 2 designer was hard at work... and there are screenshots and game details to prove it. Gears of War has arrived, but not so easily for everyone, and one user shares a mini-review that might surprise you. Meanwhile, Microsoft says they want in with casual gamers (see Natalie, don't feel bad). We also shine a light on some new games, nearly forgotten in the shadow of Gears. We end today's experiment with site features, marketplace content and - "the voice of the people" - listener mail.

Achievement Junkie #9 - November 3, 2006

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Fri, 03 Nov 2006 13:08:50 -0800

Microsoft faces a tiny catch-22 with the recent success of the HD-DVD drive and we celebrate All Halo’s eve with Halo 3 news (yeah, we couldn’t resist a stupid Halloween joke). Microsoft also casts a suspicious eye on Xbox 360 modders. A nearly forgotten WWII shooter tries to jump back on the bandwagon it built. Finally, a good game gets better with a developer fix. And we complete our story arc with game announcements, site features, and the voice of the people, literally, when FCR Hotshot becomes our first listener voicemail contributor.

Achievement Junkie #8 - October 27, 2006

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Fri, 27 Oct 2006 09:15:18 -0700

Microsoft spoke about many things last week, from getting dissed by Hollywood, to 100GB hard drive rumors. An online game retailer is closing shop and pointed an angry finger at Sony. Natalie threw her first Uno party for podcast listeners but first experienced the horror of the vision cam. The game that stole Nelson’s heart is now delayed until late 2007. We’ll also cover new releases, demos and international news. And put a cherry on top, called listener mail.

Achievement Junkie #7 - October 20, 2006

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Fri, 20 Oct 2006 08:05:16 -0700

Some surprises this week for the Xbox 360, one in particular that sparked an angry fanboy attack. Gears of War flirts with, then rejects a big rumor and German censors punish Gears with a mean face. If you’re downloading some premium content right now, we ask you to stop everything and think it over while we get down and dirty with the darkside of micro-transactions. As always, we cover some general news items, Microsoft stats, and listener mail. As a finishing move, Natalie asks for your help and invites you to a private party. (46:00)

Achievement Junkie #6 - October 13, 2006

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Fri, 13 Oct 2006 09:21:28 -0700

This week, we go over some specific game news for several titles that begin with the letter G. We also point out some ways that you can win free sh** - both for the lazy and the hard working. The inevitable strange news items and big announcements make their way onto our show, including another gamerscore scheme and Microsoft's desire to get your mom to climb onto their big old bus. Finally, we whip out our listener mail, and answer some questions about Gears and Burger King. (48:50)

Achievement Junkie #5 - October 6, 2006

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Fri, 06 Oct 2006 07:44:43 -0700

This week we look at three disturbing business models being aimed at Xbox Live. We make up for a brush-off last week, by focusing on some Gears of War news. We rundown the week's new trailers, screenshots and demos, and we go over release dates, international news, and a strange promotional campaign. Finally, we end the party with listener mail.

Achievement Junkie #4 - September 29, 2006

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Thu, 28 Sep 2006 23:35:44 -0700

X06 invades the planet and nearly takes over our brains. We discuss the good the bad and the surprising that came out of Microsoft's Barcelona conference this week, focusing on downloadable previews, demos and big product announcements. We stretch the show by a few minutes to include listener mail. Finally, Eric Bush joins us for a review of Lego Star Wars II.

Achievement Junkie #3 - September 22, 2006

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Thu, 21 Sep 2006 22:51:35 -0700

Today Nelson and Natalie talk about the flood of news and announcements from the Tokyo Game Show. We discuss the high price of an MMORPG coming to the 360. Also, the “low” prices of the new platinum editions both in the US and in the UK. While we’re at it, we will make some corrections and deal with a few small rumors. Finally we will tackle, stomp and slash at the issue of violence in video games. (35.:21)

Achievement Junkie #2 - September 15, 2006

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Fri, 15 Sep 2006 06:00:00 -0700

The week's headlines, in review. Nelson and Natalie discuss the HD-DVD Drive rumors, record-breaking sales of Call of Duty 2, and Atari's tender loving care for Test Drive Unlimited. They also chat up the Dead Rising controversy and the big news about the Wii. Staff writer Eric Bush joins in this week to review Enchanted Arms. (34:00)

Achievement Junkie #1 - September 8, 2006

nelson@achievementjunkie.com (Nelson and Natalie) — Fri, 08 Sep 2006 06:00:00 -0700

Nelson and Natalie cover this past week's headlines, including Saint's Row news, a gaggle of Xbox Live video downloads, the success of Madden NFL 07 and Sony's devastating European announcement and its impact on the 360 community. (30:00)