Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogobig.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[WRUP: Civilization to stand the test of time]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/wrup-civilization-to-stand-the-test-of-time/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/wrup-civilization-to-stand-the-test-of-time/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/wrup-civilization-to-stand-the-test-of-time/#comments Civilization 5 is free to play on Steam this weekend and is only $7.50 ($12.50 for the Game of the Year edition) if you decide to invest in your future's lost time. Fans of the previous installment knock the game for not being as deep, but some of those rebels may be silenced by the upcoming Gods and Kings expansion on June 19.

What's everyone playing this weekend?

Continue reading WRUP: Civilization to stand the test of time

JoystiqWRUP: Civilization to stand the test of time originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 May 2012 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>civilization-5pcwhat-are-you-playingWRUPFri, 25 May 2012 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Demon's Souls servers staying online into the 'foreseeable future']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/demons-souls-servers-staying-online-into-the-foreseeable-futur/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/demons-souls-servers-staying-online-into-the-foreseeable-futur/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/demons-souls-servers-staying-online-into-the-foreseeable-futur/#comments So the world might be mended. So the world might be mended.Demon's Souls will not be denied as publisher Atlus announced today that it will support the game's online features for the "foreseeable future." Unlike players in the unforgiving RPG, the servers just refuse to die!

"While it originally seemed as though it would be unfeasible for us to continue to sustain the servers, a number of developments have made it possible for us to continue to invest in and support our fans as they have continued to invest in and support us and Demon's Souls," said Tim Pivnicny, VP of Atlus marketing and sales, we imagine holding a cat o' nine tails. "For all the gamers who have yet to discover the game's amazing online experience, we're happy to say you can still log on and find out why Demon's Souls is still regarded by many as one of the finest games of all time."

The entry fee for electronic sadism is a mere $20 now, as the game is part of the PlayStation 3's "Greatest Hits" collection. The game's online features were intended to end at midnight on May 31, but darkness always finds a way to stay alive.

Continue reading Demon's Souls servers staying online into the 'foreseeable future'

JoystiqDemon's Souls servers staying online into the 'foreseeable future' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 May 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AtlusDemons-SoulsFrom-Softwareplaystationps3Fri, 25 May 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Editorial: 38 Studios and the Dunkin delusions]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/editorial-38-studios-and-the-dunkin-delusions/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/editorial-38-studios-and-the-dunkin-delusions/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/editorial-38-studios-and-the-dunkin-delusions/#comments ImageThe Providence Journal sat neatly presented on the counter at the Dunkin Donuts across the street from 38 Studios in Rhode Island, its headline clear as day: "Loan-guarantee fallout costs EDC chief his job." Further down the right column of the page was the other harbinger headline: "Too little cash to cover the check."

This was last Friday, May 18, the day after the head of the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation, the quasi-government group responsible for co-signing the $75 million loan to 38 Studios, was fired. It was also the day after the state couldn't deposit a $1.12 million check the studio delivered as a payment because the company's chief financial officer called to say there were insufficient funds.

A man walked up to the counter for his morning caffeine fix. I guessed he worked at 38 Studios because he had 'the look.' The lady working the counter confirmed my egregious profiling by asking, "How are things going over there?"

Continue reading Editorial: 38 Studios and the Dunkin delusions

JoystiqEditorial: 38 Studios and the Dunkin delusions originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 May 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studiospcproject-copernicusRhode-IslandFri, 25 May 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Konami and Autumn Games sued for fraud over $15 million Def Jam Rapstar loan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/konami-and-autumn-games-sued-for-fraud-over-15-million-def-jam/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/konami-and-autumn-games-sued-for-fraud-over-15-million-def-jam/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/konami-and-autumn-games-sued-for-fraud-over-15-million-def-jam/#comments ImageCity National Bank has sued Konami and Autumn Games for millions over allegations of fraud. Courthouse News reports the bank hasn't received any return on a $15 million line of credit it approved to the defendants, and in court documents claims the financial conditions of Autumn and Konami "were false at the time they were made and that defendants never had any intention of repaying the loan as promised."

"Rather than paying game-related proceeds directly to CNB as agreed, defendant have kept all game-related proceeds for themselves and have refused to remit any such proceeds to CNB."

City National Bank is seeking over $8.9 million in damages for "fraud, negligent misrepresentation, breach of contract, breach of covenant of good faith and fair dealing, money had and received, unjust enrichment, recovery of personal property, and punitive damages."

This isn't the first lawsuit the game has spawned. In March, EMI Music Group filed suit against Def Jam Rapstar creators 4mm Games and Terminal Reality, claiming the game contains unlicensed tracks by several artists.

JoystiqKonami and Autumn Games sued for fraud over $15 million Def Jam Rapstar loan originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 May 2012 10:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autumn-gamesCity-National-BankDef-Jam-Rapstarfraudkonamilawsuitmicrosoftplaystationps3xboxThu, 24 May 2012 10:40:00 EST<![CDATA[38 Studios employees unpaid since May 1, health insurance ends on Thursday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/38-studios-employees-unpaid-since-may-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/38-studios-employees-unpaid-since-may-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/38-studios-employees-unpaid-since-may-1/#comments Image38 Studios employees have not been paid since May 1 and their health care will end Thursday at midnight, a source with knowledge of the situation tells Joystiq. Employees are normally paid on the first and 15th of each month.

When asked if the studio would be shutting down this week, the source could only say, "Unknown at this time. Outlook is not good."

We're informed that 38 Studios' MMO, "Project Copernicus," announced by Rhode Island Gov. Lincoln Chafee as launching in June 2013, did have that date as its internal target. However, "Whether this is realistic or not is up for debate."

Gov. Chafee said in a press conference today that he would do what he could to prevent the studio from shutting down. Will the studio still exist within a month? "I have no idea," our source replied.

Joystiq38 Studios employees unpaid since May 1, health insurance ends on Thursday originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 May 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studioscurt-shillingLincoln-Chafeepcproject-copernicusrhode-islandrhode-island-economic-development-corporationWed, 23 May 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[RI Gov. Chafee working to prevent 38 Studios shutdown, unaware of any new cash for company [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/ri-gov-chafee-working-to-prevent-38-studios-shutdown-unaware-o/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/ri-gov-chafee-working-to-prevent-38-studios-shutdown-unaware-o/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/ri-gov-chafee-working-to-prevent-38-studios-shutdown-unaware-o/#comments ImageThe situation faced by troubled MMO developer 38 Studios is not improving. According to Rhode Island Governor Lincoln Chafee, the company has not received any new investment. In a sudden press conference late today, he said the studio had not received any outside investment nor any of the new tax credits it has applied for. NBC10 reports that, when asked if 38 Studios would be closing, Chafee said he would do what he could to prevent it.

WPRI reported today that CEO Jennifer MacLean removed the title of chief executive from her LinkedIn profile and listed her departure as having occurred in March. John Blakely, senior vice president of product development, also revised his LinkedIn profile to show that he left the company this month. Joystiq has also been informed of continuing layoffs at the company, and that health insurance has run out.

The value of 38 Studios' Amalur intellectual property is estimated to be in the range of $20 million, according to Wedbush Securities analyst Michael Pachter. 38 Studios put up the IP as collateral against its $75 million loan, which could end up costing RI taxpayers $112 million if 38 Studios shutters.

Update: 38 Studios employees have not been paid since May 1. WPRI reports 38 Studios may be ineligible for the millions of dollars in state tax credits because it isn't incorporated in Rhode Island.

JoystiqRI Gov. Chafee working to prevent 38 Studios shutdown, unaware of any new cash for company [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 May 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studioscurt-schillingpcproject-copernicusrhode-islandrhode-island-economic-development-corporationWed, 23 May 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview: Dragon's Dogma]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/metareview-dragons-dogma/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/metareview-dragons-dogma/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/metareview-dragons-dogma/#comments
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We had some issues with Dragon's Dogma. Ok, we had more than a few issues, calling it "50 or so hours of mundane drudgery" in our review. That doesn't mean our opinion is the only one that matters. There's a whole internet out there with glowing reviews. Maybe not "glowing," but certainly more accepting.
  • Game Informer (85/100): "Combat feels like a necessary part of the game's design, rather than something that was begrudgingly added to provide interaction between cutscenes. I left the game feeling that I made my mark on Gransys the way I chose to, instead of being escorted from plot point to plot point. When you're talking about an open-world game, I can't think of higher praise."
  • Destructoid (75/100): "Should you play Dragon's Dogma? Yes. The high points are so very worth getting to, and while the main game will be cleared in a number of hours, there are lots of monsters to battle and a dose of end-game content to clear, providing more than enough to rival the Skyrims and Diablos of the world."
  • Eurogamer (70/100): "Expectedly, coming as it does from an action game developer, its jewels are to be found in the dynamic combat, stat-tweaking party-building and defining boss battles. In this way, the game echoes the adventurous, dragon-hunting spirit of its (second- and third-hand) literary influences: that sense of unpredictable peril that could be lurking in every cave and thicket. "
  • OXM (60/100): "Dragon's Dogma has its merits, but for every great idea there's a design fumble that just leaves you scratching your head. Though it's technically sound, the game lacks the spark to elevate it beyond a "sometimes fun, mostly mediocre" experience. Much like the main character's chest cavity, this RPG ultimately feels hollow, with no real heart."

Gallery: Dragon's Dogma (The Ur-Dragon)

JoystiqMetareview: Dragon's Dogma originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 May 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Capcomdragons-dogmametareviewmetareviewsmicrosoftplaystationps3xboxWed, 23 May 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Analyst estimates Amalur IP worth $20 million, 38 Studios employees head to job fair]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/analyst-estimates-amalur-ip-worth-20-million-38-studios-employ/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/analyst-estimates-amalur-ip-worth-20-million-38-studios-employ/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/analyst-estimates-amalur-ip-worth-20-million-38-studios-employ/#comments ImageThe value of 38 Studios' Amalur intellectual property is estimated to be in the range of $20 million. We asked Wedbush Securities analyst Michael Pachter for his valuation following confirmation of layoffs at the studio and coverage of 38 Studios employees flocking to Turbine's recruitment drive in Providence last night.

"Nobody is buying MMOs after Star Wars fizzled. I think value is low, probably $20 million or so," Pachter said. "There is just no demand for game assets right now, as THQ proved when it tried to sell the Warhammer MMO. I think [Electronic Arts] could step in, since they are the publisher, so you might see some alternative way to get 38 some bridge financing."

Electronic Arts had been the publisher on the Big Huge Games developed Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning, but has yet to confirm it would publish 38 Studios' "Project Copernicus."

"Nope - never been an announcement on that," Jeff Brown of EA corporate communications told Joystiq. "We don't have any new announcements to make regarding 38 Studios. We enjoyed working with Curt and his team on their first game, Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning. Like game fans all over the world, we look forward to what 38 Studios creates next."

With reports out of Providence delivering an uncertain near future for the studio, it wouldn't be surprising if publishers tried to pick up the Amalur IP for pennies on the dollar. However, with documents showing that 38 Studios put up the IP as collateral against the $75 million loan, anybody trying to pick up the IP will be negotiating with the state of Rhode Island for control of Amalur.

JoystiqAnalyst estimates Amalur IP worth $20 million, 38 Studios employees head to job fair originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 May 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studiosamalurcurt-schillingmicrosoftpcplaystationproject-copernicusps3rhode-islandrhode-island-economic-development-corporationxboxWed, 23 May 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Take-Two ends fiscal '12 with loss, high '13 projection raises eyebrows]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/take-two-ends-fiscal-12-with-loss-high-13-projection-raises-e/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/take-two-ends-fiscal-12-with-loss-high-13-projection-raises-e/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/take-two-ends-fiscal-12-with-loss-high-13-projection-raises-e/#comments Take-Two Interactive's revenues for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2012, were $825.8 million, short of last year's $1.14 billion, because it didn't have Red Dead Redemption in it. Last year's breakout star, L.A. Noire, did well with 5 million units shipped, but that doesn't compare to the more than 13 million units (8.5 million at that time) done by Red Dead Redemption.

Overall, the publisher had a net loss of $108.8 million for the year, compared to the $48 million profit in the previous year.

Here's where things get interesting: During this afternoon's investor call, CEO Strauss Zelnick reiterated a point from earlier in the call that there are "titles yet to be announced for fiscal 2013." This is significant because the company expects revenues of $1.75 - $1.85 billion for the fiscal year ending next March. Look back at that blockbuster Red Dead Redemption year, and note that revenues reached $1.14 billion. So, what's the deal?

Officially, at this time, Take-Two plans to launch Borderlands 2 in September, NBA 2K13 and XCOM: Enemy Unknown in October and, finally, BioShock: Infinite in February. Although any one of those could be a runaway hit, there's still $600-$700 million missing over that impressive Red Dead year to hit the projection. Either Grand Theft Auto 5 is secretly on the docket for this year or Take-Two is expecting blockbusters from more than one of the announced games.

JoystiqTake-Two ends fiscal '12 with loss, high '13 projection raises eyebrows originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 May 2012 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fy-2012microsoftpcplaystationps3Take-TwoTake-Two-InteractivexboxTue, 22 May 2012 19:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Uncharted 1 and 2 discover PSN on June 26]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/uncharted-1-and-2-discover-psn-on-june-26/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/uncharted-1-and-2-discover-psn-on-june-26/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/uncharted-1-and-2-discover-psn-on-june-26/#comments Nathan Drake's first two Uncharted adventures will be digitally distributed on the PlayStation Network starting next month. On June 26, both Uncharted: Drake's Fortune and Uncharted 2: Among Thieves Game of the Year Edition will be available in boxless form. Oddly, Sony has announced no price for the digital copies as a set nor individually.

On that note, it should be mentioned that the Uncharted Greatest Hits Dual Pack, which includes the first two games in the series, is available at retailers and online for a suggested retail price of $40.

Gallery: Uncharted 2 - Siege Expansion Pack

JoystiqUncharted 1 and 2 discover PSN on June 26 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 May 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstationps3PSNPSN-StoreUnchartedUncharted-2Uncharted-2-Among-ThievesTue, 22 May 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lego Batman 2: DC Super Heroes and a whole new (open) world]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/lego-batman-2-dc-super-heroes-and-a-whole-new-open-world/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/lego-batman-2-dc-super-heroes-and-a-whole-new-open-world/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/lego-batman-2-dc-super-heroes-and-a-whole-new-open-world/#comments
We know, we know... another Lego game based on a popular franchise? But Lego Batman 2: DC Super Hereoes is looking to be different, featuring an open world and the borderline blasphemy of talking Lego characters. Also, we'd be lying if we said that the exchange between Batman and Superman in this trailer didn't make us smirk.

Continue reading Lego Batman 2: DC Super Heroes and a whole new (open) world

JoystiqLego Batman 2: DC Super Heroes and a whole new (open) world originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 May 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdsLego-Batmanlego-batman-2-dc-super-heroesmicrosoftnintendopcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3Travellers-TalesvitaWBIEwiixboxTue, 22 May 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Island reanimated for 'Game of the Year Edition' June 26]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/dead-island-reanimated-for-game-of-the-year-edition-june-26/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/dead-island-reanimated-for-game-of-the-year-edition-june-26/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/dead-island-reanimated-for-game-of-the-year-edition-june-26/#comments ImageDead Island: Game of the Year Edition is now official and ready to ruin your summer vacation plans on June 26. First revealed earlier this month by the British Board of Film Classification, the GOTY packs includes the standard game, along with downloadable content "Ryder White," "Bloodbath Arena" and "The Ripper."

The tropical zombie apocalypse RPG, which has sold over three million copies worldwide, will be released on PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 and PC for $29.99.

Gallery: Dead Island (Ryder White DLC)

Continue reading Dead Island reanimated for 'Game of the Year Edition' June 26

JoystiqDead Island reanimated for 'Game of the Year Edition' June 26 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 May 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-islanddeep-silvermicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxTue, 22 May 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[XCOM: Enemy Unknown trailer digs deep into the 'ant farm' base]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/xcom-enemy-unknown-trailer-digs-deep-into-the-ant-farm-base/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/xcom-enemy-unknown-trailer-digs-deep-into-the-ant-farm-base/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/xcom-enemy-unknown-trailer-digs-deep-into-the-ant-farm-base/#comments
XCOM: Enemy Unknown's October 9 launch date this morning was also coupled with screenshots and a developer doc on XCOM's base of operations. Referred to as the "ant farm," the XCOM base is a living cutaway, allowing players to build out and create all new rooms to assist the agency in its clandestine operations.

Gallery: XCOM: Enemy Unknown (5/22/12)

JoystiqXCOM: Enemy Unknown trailer digs deep into the 'ant farm' base originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 May 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-GamesFiraxismicrosoftpcplaystationps3Take-Two-Interactivexboxxcom-enemy-unknownTue, 22 May 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[XCOM: Enemy Unknown launches retail operations October 9]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/xcom-enemy-unknown-launches-retail-operations-october-9/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/xcom-enemy-unknown-launches-retail-operations-october-9/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/xcom-enemy-unknown-launches-retail-operations-october-9/#comments ImageXCOM: Enemy Unknown begins training a new generation of operatives in the art of global xeno defense on October 9 and 13 in North America and internationally, respectively. 2K Games plans to launch the console and PC versions simultaneously.

Pre-orders of the game will receive the Elite Soldier Pack DLC, featuring a blonde, flattopped recruit inspired by the original XCOM. It also includes soldier deco packs for players to customize the look of their character with "complete color customization." XCOM fuchsia team, move out!

The October XCOM launch brings a little more clarity to BioShock Infinite's move to 2013, giving 2K Games more breathing room for a potential break-out by a mostly forgotten franchise. This doesn't mean GTA V is off the table for October, but it's hard to imagine the blockbuster series launching then without sacrificing one of the publisher's games in that month. And by "one," we mean XCOM.

Gallery: XCOM: Enemy Unknown (5/22/12)

JoystiqXCOM: Enemy Unknown launches retail operations October 9 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 May 2012 08:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftpcplaystationps3xboxxcom-enemy-unknownTue, 22 May 2012 08:07:00 EST<![CDATA[RI governor confirms 38 Studios layoffs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/ri-governor-confirms-38-studios-layoffs/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/ri-governor-confirms-38-studios-layoffs/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/ri-governor-confirms-38-studios-layoffs/#comments
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Rhode Island Governor Lincoln Chafee has confirmed layoffs at 38 Studios. The governor made the statement this evening following a scheduled meeting of the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC), where about as little happened to resolve 38 Studios' troubled situation as at last Wednesday's "emergency meeting."

On Friday Gov. Chafee held a surprise press conference about 38 Studios, in which he said the government was done providing easy money for the developer, and gave "Project Copernicus" a launch window of June 2013.

WPRI reporter Ted Nesi told Joystiq that Gov. Chafee confirmed the layoffs, but was ambiguous about whether employees at the studio were being paid.

38 Studios continues to remain silent and has not made any official statement about anything since this whole mess started early last week. According to the AP, 38 Studios founder Curt Schilling brushed past reporters on his way out of the meeting this evening, saying there was "misinformation" he couldn't clear up in a sound bite.

Not at all coincidental, Warner Bros. owned Boston-area MMO developer Turbine will hold a recruitment event at the Hotel Providence Tuesday night from 5-9PM. The studio currently has over 50 open positions.

We continue to leave the line open if 38 Studios or any employees wish to share their side of what's going on at the developer.

Update: Avalanche Studios, which opened up a studio in New York last year, will also hold a recruitment drive at the Westin Providence Hotel on Thursday, May 24, from 12-7PM.

JoystiqRI governor confirms 38 Studios layoffs originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 May 2012 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studioscurt-schillingLincoln-Chafeepcproject-copernicusrhode-islandMon, 21 May 2012 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[DmC Devil May Cry delayed, hitting January 2013]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/dmc-devil-may-cry-delayed-hitting-january-2013/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/dmc-devil-may-cry-delayed-hitting-january-2013/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/dmc-devil-may-cry-delayed-hitting-january-2013/#comments DmC Devil May Cry has been delayed. The redesigned Dante will now perform endless aerial combos and smart-ass quips on consoles starting January 15, 2013 in North America and Europe. A PC version has also been announced, and is set to strike "later in 2013."

Gallery: DmC: Devil May Cry (4/10/12)

Continue reading DmC Devil May Cry delayed, hitting January 2013

JoystiqDmC Devil May Cry delayed, hitting January 2013 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 May 2012 19:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CapcomDelaydelaysdmc-devil-may-crymicrosoftninja-theoryplaystationps3xboxMon, 21 May 2012 19:09:00 EST<![CDATA[Max Payne 3 shoots past Diablo 3 on UK Charts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/max-payne-3-shoots-past-diablo-3-on-uk-charts/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/max-payne-3-shoots-past-diablo-3-on-uk-charts/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/max-payne-3-shoots-past-diablo-3-on-uk-charts/#comments
Max has beaten a lot of personal demons, but last week he took on the Diablo at retail and won. According to Chart-Track, Max Payne 3 outperformed the previous sequel (from 2003) nearly 10 to 1.

Chart-Track also noted the third installment in the Payne series bested Diablo 3 by only about 8,000 sales. With Max Payne 3 only available through disc-based sales and Diablo 3 available through digital distribution, it would be fair to guess Diablo actually sold more. That is, if you believe Diablo 3 sold over 8,000 units online in the UK last week.

The rest of the top ten are the usual suspects. So, pop some pain killers and shoot past the break for the UK top ten.

Continue reading Max Payne 3 shoots past Diablo 3 on UK Charts

JoystiqMax Payne 3 shoots past Diablo 3 on UK Charts originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 May 2012 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BritainChart-Trackchart-track-weeklyDiablo-3FIFA-12FIFA-StreetMass-Effect-3Max-Payne-3microsoftpcplaystationPrototype-2ps3UKxboxMon, 21 May 2012 08:45:00 EST<![CDATA[SOL: Exodus flying to all digital distribution systems, European retail this summer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/19/sol-exodus-flying-to-all-digital-distribution-systems-european/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/19/sol-exodus-flying-to-all-digital-distribution-systems-european/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/19/sol-exodus-flying-to-all-digital-distribution-systems-european/#comments Space combat invigorater SOL: Exodus is heading to European boxed retail this summer and all digital distribution systems shortly. Developer Seamless struck a deal with publisher Iceberg Interactive to the bring the game to physical shelves in the UK , Ireland, Scandinavia, Benelux and other territories beginning June 22.

"SOL has definitely been a labor of love for us, and we can't wait to hear from fans and players from around the world." Seamless Studio Director Dan Magaha said, "As a small indie developer working in the town where Wing Commander was born, it's been an enormous honor to build our homage to the classic space games we loved when we were young, and we hope that passion comes through in the quality of our work."

SOL: Exodus launched on Steam earlier this year and, for whatever hiccups it may have as an indie project (many smoothed since launch), it's still totally worth it for $10.

Gallery: Sol: Exodus (PC)

Continue reading SOL: Exodus flying to all digital distribution systems, European retail this summer

JoystiqSOL: Exodus flying to all digital distribution systems, European retail this summer originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 19 May 2012 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>iceberg-interactivepcseamless-entertainmentsol-exodusSat, 19 May 2012 09:45:00 EST<![CDATA[WRUP: Diablo is in the details]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/wrup-diablo-is-in-the-details/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/wrup-diablo-is-in-the-details/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/wrup-diablo-is-in-the-details/#comments ImageAfter launch hiccups that prevented the ravenous hordes to delve deep into the dungeons of Diablo 3, it appears things are stable enough now for the masses to descend. We understand if you won't be able to join in, as hell takes many forms.

What's everyone playing?

Continue reading WRUP: Diablo is in the details

JoystiqWRUP: Diablo is in the details originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 May 2012 22:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Diablo-3what-are-you-playingwrupFri, 18 May 2012 22:15:00 EST<![CDATA[First video of 38 Studios' 'Project Copernicus' MMO flies over Amalur]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/first-video-of-38-studios-project-copernicus-mmo-flies-over-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/first-video-of-38-studios-project-copernicus-mmo-flies-over-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/first-video-of-38-studios-project-copernicus-mmo-flies-over-a/#comments

38 Studios released a "Project Copernicus" sizzle reel this afternoon, featuring locales in Amalur's MMO game world. The timing of this video is certainly interesting, since it comes on the same day that 38 Studios handed over an overdue check to the state of Rhode Island and its governor, Lincoln Chafee, announced "Project Copernicus" would launch in June 2013.

JoystiqFirst video of 38 Studios' 'Project Copernicus' MMO flies over Amalur originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 May 2012 17:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studioskingdoms-of-amalur-reckoningpcproject-copernicusFri, 18 May 2012 17:11:00 EST<![CDATA[GOG weekend sale is full of winners from the distant past at low, low prices]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/gog-weekend-sale-is-full-of-winners-from-the-distant-past-at-low/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/gog-weekend-sale-is-full-of-winners-from-the-distant-past-at-low/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/gog-weekend-sale-is-full-of-winners-from-the-distant-past-at-low/#comments Image"As the Americans learned so painfully in Earth's final century, free flow of information is the only safeguard against tyranny. The once-chained people whose leaders at last lose their grip on information flow will soon burst with freedom and vitality, but the free nation gradually constricting its grip on public discourse has begun its rapid slide into despotism. Beware of he who would deny you access to information, for in his heart he dreams himself your master" - Commissioner Pravin Lal ... and there's never been a game quite like Alpha Centauri since.

This weekend, GOG has Alpha Centauri, Dungeon Keeper 1 and 2, SimCity 2000 and Populous 1 and 2 for $3 apiece.

If dated graphics don't bother you, we expect you to be done extracting the fun out of these games sometime in 2015.

JoystiqGOG weekend sale is full of winners from the distant past at low, low prices originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 May 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Alpha-CentauriDungeon-Keeperdungeon-keeper-2GOGpcSimCity-2000Fri, 18 May 2012 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Omerta - City of Gangsters heading to Xbox 360, PC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/omerta-city-of-gangsters-heading-to-xbox-360-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/omerta-city-of-gangsters-heading-to-xbox-360-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/omerta-city-of-gangsters-heading-to-xbox-360-pc/#comments
Publisher Kalypso Media and Tropico series developer Haemimont Games are bringing mob city simulator Omerta - City of Gangsters to Xbox 360 this fall. The game was previously announced for PC, but will now make its way to Microsoft's console, much like Tropico 3, Tropico 4 and Tropico 4: Modern Times (albeit, a little later).

Instead of controlling the day to day of Tropico's banana republic operations, Omerta takes place in the 1920s, as players work their way up as a powerful mobster on the macro level. The made men and women of Omerta must construct or buy building to create speakeasies, distilleries, illegal boxing rings and much more to be good earners. If they don't, well... we hear fishes make great cuddle buddies.

Gallery: Omerta: City of Gangsters (PC)

Continue reading Omerta - City of Gangsters heading to Xbox 360, PC

JoystiqOmerta - City of Gangsters heading to Xbox 360, PC originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 May 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Haemimont-Gamesmicrosoftomerta-city-of-gangsterspcxboxFri, 18 May 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Scotland Yard detected on iOS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/scotland-yard-detected-on-ios/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/scotland-yard-detected-on-ios/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/scotland-yard-detected-on-ios/#comments ImageThe classic board game Scotland Yard is ready to be (re)discovered now as a universal iPad and iPhone app on the iOS App Store. Faithfully based on the tabletop game of cat and mouse, which has sold over four million copies, the title tasks a group of detectives to hunt down Mister X somewhere in London.

The game supports local, bluetooth or game center. In local play, unlike the original board game, Mister X and the other detectives can be controlled by the computer. The AI is the feature that makes this app worth it for anyone that enjoyed the original game. Players can focus on the task of tracking Mister X (or becoming him) through the subways, on the buses and tracking taxis against some worth adversaries and compatriots (who you don't have to host at your place).

JoystiqScotland Yard detected on iOS originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 May 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>iosipadiphonemobileravensburgerScotland-YardFri, 18 May 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[38 Studios doesn't make payroll, can't pay state either [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/38-studios-doesnt-make-payroll/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/38-studios-doesnt-make-payroll/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/38-studios-doesnt-make-payroll/#comments Image38 Studios was unable to make payroll this week, but is in the process of making the $1.125 million payment that set off the company's crisis earlier this week. WPRI reports that a spokesperson for the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC) did confirm that former Red Sox player Curt Schilling's video game company was unable to pay its employees.

A source tells Joystiq that beyond not making payroll, all temps and contractors at 38 Studios were let go this week.

At the same time, Governor Lincoln Chafee's office stated 38 Studios is in the process of making the overdue payment to the state. The head of the RIEDC, Keith Stokes, who approved the $75 million loan to 38 Studios in 2010, resigned late last night.

If 38 Studios does close, Rhode Island taxpayers will have to repay the $75 million bond (plus interest) through 2020, but they'll own the intellectual property of the developer, which would likely be sold at auction.

If the company does make the payment to the state, the next round will be owed in 2013. Of course, there won't be a 38 Studios much longer if it isn't paying employees.

Update: The hand-delivered check for the overdue $1.125 million payment has been returned by the EDC to 38 Studios after the company's chief financial officer said there were insufficient funds to cover it.

Continue reading 38 Studios doesn't make payroll, can't pay state either [update]

Joystiq38 Studios doesn't make payroll, can't pay state either [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 May 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studioscurt-schillingkingdoms-of-amalur-reckoningmicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxThu, 17 May 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[THQ reaffirms existence of inSane, other games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/thq-reaffirms-existence-of-insane-other-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/thq-reaffirms-existence-of-insane-other-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/thq-reaffirms-existence-of-insane-other-games/#comments Insane logo
Director Guillermo Del Toro's THQ project, inSane, "is not cancelled" according to THQ's Executive VP of Core Games Danny Bilson. The executive went to Twitter last night to make the declaration.

The statement comes a couple days after THQ, which reported a loss of $239.9 million in the previous fiscal year, announced during an investor call it was looking to unload Tomonobu Itagaki's Devil's Third for a few extra bucks.

During that same investor call, the company also reiterated that the Turtle Rock Studios (Left 4 Dead) FPS and Patrice Désilets' game, speculated to be 1666, are still in production.

JoystiqTHQ reaffirms existence of inSane, other games originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 May 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Danny-Bilsoninsanemicrosoftpcplaystationps3THQxboxThu, 17 May 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Darksiders 2: Death in the shadow of the colossus]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/darksiders-2-death-in-the-shadow-of-the-colossus/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/darksiders-2-death-in-the-shadow-of-the-colossus/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/darksiders-2-death-in-the-shadow-of-the-colossus/#comments
Darksiders 2's Death is apparently not good at the maths. A man runs at 10MPH. A horse can trot at 30MPH. A colossus lumbers along faster than both. Don't kill the colossus, Death! Put out a picnic near the back of one of its shoulders and casually relax to your destination.

Continue reading Darksiders 2: Death in the shadow of the colossus

JoystiqDarksiders 2: Death in the shadow of the colossus originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 May 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>darksiders-2gameplaymicrosoftpcplaystationps3THQvigilvigil-gamesxboxThu, 17 May 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Walking Dead sells a million episodes [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/the-walking-dead-sells-a-million-episodes/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/the-walking-dead-sells-a-million-episodes/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/the-walking-dead-sells-a-million-episodes/#comments The Walking Dead's critically acclaimed game adaptation has sold over a million episodes across platfoms in its first two weeks. The game takes Heavy Rain-inspired mechanics and weaves them into an intense and morally ambiguous experience.

"The most exciting aspect of getting off to such a great start is that this is just the beginning of the five episode series. The Walking Dead fans are going to experience some really great moments in the months ahead that are uniquely influenced by the choices they make throughout the season," said Telltale Games CEO Dan Connors.

The second episode of the five-part series will be available in June. We are currently following up with the developer to find out if having "sold over one million episodes" means the first episode sold a million units or if those who bought a season pass of five episodes were counted five times.

Gallery: The Walking Dead (PSN)

Continue reading The Walking Dead sells a million episodes [update]

JoystiqThe Walking Dead sells a million episodes [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 May 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>macmicrosoftpcplaystationps3TellTale-Gamesthe-walking-deadxboxThu, 17 May 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Borderlands 2 special editions revealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/borderlands-2-special-editions-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/borderlands-2-special-editions-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/borderlands-2-special-editions-revealed/#comments ImageGood day, vault hunters. Today, 2K Games announced two special editions of Borderlands 2 for optional acquisition for the game's launch in September.

The $100 "Deluxe Vault Hunter's Collector's Edition" includes the game, Marcus Kincaid bobblehead, art book, stickers, digital comic and some unspecified DLC. There's also the "Ultimate Loot Chest Limited Edition" (pictured), which includes all items previously mentioned, along with actual red loot chest box and other goodies.

Pre-ordering the game in any edition (even the plebby "standard") at "participating retailers" will also net access to the Borderlands 2 Premiere Club, to download the Gearbox Gun Pack, Golden Key, Vault Hunter's Relic and the Mechromancer character class when the game's out.

Continue reading Borderlands 2 special editions revealed

JoystiqBorderlands 2 special editions revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 May 2012 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesborderlands-2gearbox-softwaremicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxThu, 17 May 2012 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The scene following 38 Studios' 'emergency meeting' with Rhode Island officials]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/the-scene-following-38-studios-emergency-meeting-with-rhode-i/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/the-scene-following-38-studios-emergency-meeting-with-rhode-i/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/the-scene-following-38-studios-emergency-meeting-with-rhode-i/#comments
To get a real sense of the severity of the situation between 38 Studios and the state of Rhode Island, here's a package by the Providence Journal. The events shown immediately follow today's "emergency meeting," where officials decided they didn't know what to do about the studio.

JoystiqThe scene following 38 Studios' 'emergency meeting' with Rhode Island officials originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 May 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studioscurt-schillingkingdoms-of-amalur-reckoningmicrosoftpcplaystationProvidence-Journalps3rhode-islandxboxWed, 16 May 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mini Ninjas: Hiro's Adventure classified in Australia]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/mini-ninjas-hiros-adventure-classified-in-australia/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/mini-ninjas-hiros-adventure-classified-in-australia/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/mini-ninjas-hiros-adventure-classified-in-australia/#comments Square Enix's eventual announcement of Mini Ninjas: Hiro's Adventure will soon end up being less "reveal" and more like the complete opposite of any ninja's stealth training ever. The barely unannounced sequel has most recently been spotted on the Australian Classification Board site by Siliconera.

This latest failure of ninjadom comes two months after a European trademark filing mentioned Mini Ninjas: Hiro's Adventure... oh yeah, and then there was the web domain under the same name, as well. At the very least, we expect the game to come in clanking pots and pans like a two-year-old on parade at E3.

JoystiqMini Ninjas: Hiro's Adventure classified in Australia originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 May 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mini-ninjasmini-ninjas-hiros-adventureWed, 16 May 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rhode Island owns Amalur, all other 38 Studios intellectual property if studio defaults]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/rhode-island-owns-38-studios-intellectual-property/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/rhode-island-owns-38-studios-intellectual-property/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/rhode-island-owns-38-studios-intellectual-property/#comments If 38 Studios does shutter, beyond Rhode Island taxpayers having to pay off the $75 million bond (plus interest) through 2020, it appears the state will also own the intellectual property of the developer as a parting gift. Reviewing updated documentation released by the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC) today, it appears 38 Studios put up all present and future IP by the company as collateral.

According to the documentation, 38 Studios' intellectual property rights and other collateral were pledged to the RIEDC and assigned to a trustee, which we've confirmed by pulling Uniform Commercial Code documentation. Any proceeds made from the sale of the collateral would go back to the bondholders. This covers "all rights, title and interest in any projects, including video game projects," such as Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning and "Project Copernicus" - the title currently in development at 38 Studios.

"Based on what information I've been able to review on the 38 Studios situation, it appears that the funds they received from the RIEDC were secured by collateral that amounts to all of 38 Studios assets, including all of their intellectual property," attorney and Law of the Game editor Mark Methenitis told Joystiq this afternoon. "That would include all the rights to Kingdoms of Amalur and any other games they may have in development, even if no information about those titles has ever reached the light of day."

Continue reading Rhode Island owns Amalur, all other 38 Studios intellectual property if studio defaults

JoystiqRhode Island owns Amalur, all other 38 Studios intellectual property if studio defaults originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 May 2012 16:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studioscurt-schillingkingdoms-of-amalur-reckoningmicrosoftpcplaystationps3Rhode-Islandrhode-island-economic-development-corporationxboxWed, 16 May 2012 16:32:00 EST<![CDATA[38 Studios, Schilling ask Rhode Island for more money; state officials freeze]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/38-studios-schilling-ask-rhode-island-for-more-money-state-off/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/38-studios-schilling-ask-rhode-island-for-more-money-state-off/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/38-studios-schilling-ask-rhode-island-for-more-money-state-off/#comments ImageToday's emergency meeting by Rhode Island officials to determine what they are going to do about Curt Schilling's 38 Studios has concluded with officials freezing like deer in headlights. Nothing happened.

Rhode Island's Economic Development Corporation will take no immediate action to aid the developer, following a closed-door meeting attended by Governor Lincoln Chafee and Schilling, who asked for additional help to save the company. Schilling refused to answer press inquiries and officials wouldn't declare how much money the studio is seeking.

"How do we avoid throwing good money after bad?" Chafee is quoted by the Associated Press as saying after the three-hour emergency meeting finished.

"The company still has the option to cure the existing default by paying the $1,125,000 guaranty fee that is past due," reads an official statement by the EDC board. "In the meantime, we will continue to talk with 38 Studios and develop additional information, and will resume the Board meeting at our regularly scheduled meeting on May 21. The members of the Board may not discuss the confidential information received and discussed today."

If the studio doesn't receive assistance, it appears Rhode Island taxpayers may very well be on the hook for the $75 million 38 Studios loan that, after interest, would require paying back $112.6 million through 2020.

Continue reading 38 Studios, Schilling ask Rhode Island for more money; state officials freeze

Joystiq38 Studios, Schilling ask Rhode Island for more money; state officials freeze originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 May 2012 14:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studioscurt-schillingkingdoms-of-amalur-reckoningmicrosoftpcplaystationps3Rhode-islandxboxWed, 16 May 2012 14:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Tribes: Ascend pulled down 1.2 million times thus far]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/tribes-ascend-pulled-down-1-2-million-times-thus-far/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/tribes-ascend-pulled-down-1-2-million-times-thus-far/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/tribes-ascend-pulled-down-1-2-million-times-thus-far/#comments Free-to-play shooter Tribes: Ascend has been downloaded 1.2 million times, a significant boost from the debatably framed 800K registered accounts from a month ago.

"It is truly the player support of the title that has driven the population growth and fuels our team to deliver updates," said Hi-Rez Studio COO Todd Harris. "We see the community expanding primarily thru positive word of mouth."

Hi-Rez Studios also noted over 110,000 people have joined Tribes: Ascend through the company's referral system. Our experience with the game since launch has been chronicled by our "Murderous Skier."

Continue reading Tribes: Ascend pulled down 1.2 million times thus far

JoystiqTribes: Ascend pulled down 1.2 million times thus far originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 May 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hi-rezhi-rez-studiospctribes-ascendWed, 16 May 2012 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 adds Manga, MUZU apps; upgrades Aussie FOXTEL with Kinect]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/xbox-360-adds-manga-muzu-apps-upgrades-aussie-foxtel-with-kine/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/xbox-360-adds-manga-muzu-apps-upgrades-aussie-foxtel-with-kine/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/xbox-360-adds-manga-muzu-apps-upgrades-aussie-foxtel-with-kine/#comments ImageThe Xbox 360 has added a couple new entertainment apps for your audio-visual pleasure. Starting things off, in the States, there's the Manga app, which enables users to view full length episodes, movies and clips from the Manga Entertainment catalog.

For the northern parts of North America, MUZU.TV will we available to Xbox Live customers in the United States and Canada. MUZU is a ... (*googles*) apparently, it's a music video site, with over 40,000 mini musicals on demand.

Finally, Australians have upgraded FOXTEL with Kinect functionality. The virtual controls on that stuff aren't what one would call efficient, but Kinect compatibility is still worth it for the joys of "Xbox Pause" and "Xbox Play" functionality.

Continue reading Xbox 360 adds Manga, MUZU apps; upgrades Aussie FOXTEL with Kinect

JoystiqXbox 360 adds Manga, MUZU apps; upgrades Aussie FOXTEL with Kinect originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 May 2012 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>foxtelmangamanga-entertainmentmicrosoftmuzumuzu-tvxboxWed, 16 May 2012 09:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Street Fighter X Tekken sales fall short of Capcom expectations, 'cannibalism' blamed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/street-fighter-x-tekken-sales-fall-short-of-capcom-expectations/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/street-fighter-x-tekken-sales-fall-short-of-capcom-expectations/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/street-fighter-x-tekken-sales-fall-short-of-capcom-expectations/#comments ImageStreet Fighter X Tekken may have sold over a million units since launch, but Capcom recently declared that the game didn't hit internal expectations.

"Sales of Street Fighter X Tekken have fallen short of our plan. We believe one of causes is cannibalism because of the large number of other games in this genre that were launched within a short time," Capcom stated in a Q&A following its earnings release.

Although such a quote could be directed at companies like Warner Bros.' Mortal Kombat, Namco Bandai's Soulcalibur 5 or indie titles like Skullgirls, we prefer to imagine Capcom speaking that quote into a mirror.

As Eurogamer notes, since bringing back the fighting genre to popular consciousness with Street Fighter 4 in 2008 (consoles in 2009), the company itself has launched: Super Street Fighter 4, Super Street Fighter 4 Arcade Edition, Tatsunoko vs. Capcom: Ultimate All-Stars, Marvel vs. Capcom 3, Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3, Street Fighter x Tekken, along with PSN and XBLA re-releases of fighters from its back catalog.

JoystiqStreet Fighter X Tekken sales fall short of Capcom expectations, 'cannibalism' blamed originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 May 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Capcommicrosoftplaystationps3street-fighter-x-tekkenxboxTue, 15 May 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Saints Row franchise ships 11 million units, SR: The Third expansion due in Sept.]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/saints-row-franchise-has-shipped-11-million-units-sr-the-third/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/saints-row-franchise-has-shipped-11-million-units-sr-the-third/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/saints-row-franchise-has-shipped-11-million-units-sr-the-third/#comments As part of today's year-end financials, THQ announced that the Saints Row franchise has shipped 11 million units globally. Speaking specifically to the latest installment, Saints Row: The Third, the company revealed it has shipped over 4.25 million units and that "the game has generated the highest digital revenue of any console title in the company's history."

That's not the conclusion of Saints Row for the year. Saints Row: The Third: Enter The Dominatrix is expected to launch this September. The game is a standalone product that does not require the third installment to play and started life as an April Fool's gag.

JoystiqSaints Row franchise ships 11 million units, SR: The Third expansion due in Sept. originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 May 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftpcplaystationps3Saints-RowSaints-Row-2saints-row-the-thirdTHQvolition-incxboxTue, 15 May 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[If 38 Studios collapses, Rhode Island taxpayers owe $112.6 million]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/if-38-studios-collapses-rhode-island-taxpayers-owe-112-6-milli/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/if-38-studios-collapses-rhode-island-taxpayers-owe-112-6-milli/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/if-38-studios-collapses-rhode-island-taxpayers-owe-112-6-milli/#comments ImageWith Rhode Island politicians and 38 Studios silent on the precarious financial condition of the developer, the potential cost of the doomsday scenario to taxpayers has come to light. WPRI reports that if 38 Studios can't pay the bonds it received from the state, taxpayers will actually be responsible for paying back $112.6 million through 2020.

The math works a little something this this: The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation borrowed $75 million from private investors for 38 Studios, at interest rates between 6 - 7.75 percent, with the expectation that 38 Studios would pay it back with the sale of games.

For the record, 38 Studios has only launched one product, Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning, which it only had due to its acquisition of developer Big Huge Games. Big Huge Games was already working on an RPG prior to the sale, but altered it to fit the Amalur world after the purchase.

If 38 Studios can't pay, the governor is required to ask the General Assembly to repay bondholders.

Game industry sources tell Joystiq that if 38 Studios does collapse, despite this specific deal having been widely criticized from the start, it could have wider repercussions for the industry trying to obtain tax breaks in other states. The silence out of Providence right now is deafening.

JoystiqIf 38 Studios collapses, Rhode Island taxpayers owe $112.6 million originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 May 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studioscurt-schillingEAElectronic-Artskingdoms-of-amalur-reckoningmicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxTue, 15 May 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rhode Island gov working hard at 'keeping 38 Studios solvent']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/rhode-island-gov-working-hard-at-keeping-38-studios-solvent/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/rhode-island-gov-working-hard-at-keeping-38-studios-solvent/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/rhode-island-gov-working-hard-at-keeping-38-studios-solvent/#comments Reckoning, indeed! A developing story out of Rhode Island has Governor Lincoln Chafee talking in uncertain terms about the financial condition of Curt Schilling's 38 Studios, which the state gave a controversial $75 million loan to a couple years back to move down to Providence.

The Providence Journal reports Gov. Chafee, who was against the loan during his election, spent a "weekend of work on this subject," but wouldn't go into specifics. "We're doing everything possible, like I would for any Rhode Island company," he said this afternoon. The Journal reports he added the work was about "keeping 38 Studios solvent."

"We're concerned and just doing everything possible to ensure that 38 Studios stays part of the Rhode Island community," Governor Chafee told WPRI.com. "We're working on different issues with them." Asked if 38 Studios' issues could be resolved, Chafee said, "We're working on it."

Continue reading Rhode Island gov working hard at 'keeping 38 Studios solvent'

JoystiqRhode Island gov working hard at 'keeping 38 Studios solvent' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 May 2012 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-Studioscurt-schillingGovernor-Chafeekingdoms-of-amalur-reckoningLincoln-Chafeemicrosoftpcplaystationps3Rhode-IslandxboxMon, 14 May 2012 20:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview: Max Payne 3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/metareview-max-payne-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/metareview-max-payne-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/metareview-max-payne-3/#comments
Max, dearest of all my friends. So good to have you back. You look a little tired, friend. Is it all that leaping and shooting, or is it something more? Sit down, sip a little vodka and look at what they're saying about you. Joystiq feels you make "people die real good." What about everyone else? Take a look...
  • G4 (100/100): "The performances are top notch, the action plays out with unrivaled fluidity, and the multiplayer is deep and rewarding. Silly distractions aside, Max Payne 3 is an action lover's wet dream that also happens to employ some of the slickest direction and transitional trickery this side of a David Fincher box set. Lock and load. It's bullet time...time."
  • Game Informer (93/100): "The same great gunplay from the campaign is replicated in the multiplayer modes, and immense depth is tied to the ranking system (with a level cap of 50) and slew of unlockable guns, skins, and items. Rockstar also provides a crew system that tracks world ranks, kill-to-death ratios, and first place finishes for ­each ­crew."
  • Giant Bomb (4/5): "Rockstar has taken a lot of risks in the ways it has reshaped the series with Max Payne 3, and there's something to be said for opting out of the easy route. The aesthetic overhaul is certainly the most noticeable, though there's no understating the impact that certain gameplay modernizations have had on the experience. While fans might have a hard time processing the dramatic change in tone, it's approached with a seriousness and conviction that I respect, and frankly, have come to expect from Rockstar."
  • Edge (70/100): "Max Payne 3 might solve the problem of how you manage to reload when carrying more than one gun, but detailing alone can't change the fact that this is a surprisingly conservative game from Rockstar. Its absorption of cover mechanics makes Payne feel more familiar than he should, but even then his signature tricks are over a decade old. This is a game about a world-weary killer doing the only thing he knows how to, and for all its spectacular action beats there's something apt about Max's fatigue."

    Gallery: Max Payne 3 (5/14/12)

JoystiqMetareview: Max Payne 3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 May 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Max-Payne-3Metareviewmetareviewsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3RockstarRockstar-GamesTake-Two-InteractivexboxMon, 14 May 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GAME Australia enters voluntary administration]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/game-australia-enters-voluntary-administration/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/game-australia-enters-voluntary-administration/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/game-australia-enters-voluntary-administration/#comments ImageRetailer GAME's Australian arm has entered voluntary administration (i.e. "bankruptcy"), with stores continuing to operate as normal for the time being.

The company wrote on its Facebook page: "We are still trading in all stores and will operate in a business as usual mode while the Administrators obtain a clearer understanding of the current state of the business and actively pursue options to secure its future."

According to VG247, GAME has approximately 500 employees in Australia. GAME's immediate troubles in the UK concluded last month when the company was bought, but that was after it shut nearly 300 stores and cut thousands of jobs.

JoystiqGAME Australia enters voluntary administration originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 May 2012 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AustraliaGameMon, 14 May 2012 14:45:00 EST