Blizzard brings Balance and Battletags to Battle.net

Blizzard Entertainment has been steadily updating the Battle.net online multiplayer service recently, presumably in anticipation of Diablo 3's release next year. Last week, the company introduced what it's calling the Battle.net Balance, a currency total stored on its servers that players can use to pay for Blizzard items -- from a World of Warcraft subscription to in-game items and plushies in the company store. This is where funds not translated directly into cash will go from the real money auction house in Diablo 3, whenever it arrives.

Today, Blizzard introduced the BattleTag system, which is a specific public username that will identify players publicly on Battle.net services (similar to Xbox Live's Gamertag name). This is likely the compromise Blizzard came up with over its controversial Real ID service,... (Continue Reading...)

Xbox Live entertainment apps unlocked this weekend, but online gaming remains Gold-only

Here's a clear indication of Microsoft's marketing angle for the Xbox 360 in 2012. This weekend, from April 19 to April 23, is a free preview of Xbox Live Gold, meaning even non-paying users will be able to take part in subscription-only functionality at that time.

But not all subscription-only functionality. Microsoft is touting it as a chance to "enjoy all of the customized entertainment app experiences featured on the Xbox LIVE service." It's all about the TV services, and unlike most XBL free weekends, "Multi-player gaming will not be unlocked in this promotion."

In addition to free access to apps like Crackle, Syfy, and Vudu, you can get a free trial of Hulu Plus, Netflix, or EPIX during this period (really, you can get a free trial of Hulu Plus or Netflix any time!). The full list of apps is posted on the promotion's... (Continue Reading...)


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