Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogobig.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2015 AOL, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Smash Bros. creator Sakurai also has trouble tracking down amiibo]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/smash-bros-creator-sakurai-also-has-trouble-tracking-down-amiib/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/smash-bros-creator-sakurai-also-has-trouble-tracking-down-amiib/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/smash-bros-creator-sakurai-also-has-trouble-tracking-down-amiib/#comments If you've been unsuccessful in finding an amiibo of your favorite Super Smash Bros. character, you're not alone. Series creator Masahiro Sakurai recently vented similar frustrations on Twitter, noting that he went home empty-handed when he hit up local retailers in Japan in the hopes of tracking down Meta Knight, Sheik, Lucario, and Rosalina & Luma.

Nintendo of America announced last year that it would phase out many amiibo after an initial print run, leading to shortages and price hikes on secondary markets like eBay and Amazon. The Lucario figure also remains elusive in the weeks leading up to its release in North America, with exclusive distributor Toys R Us recently raising confusion over whether customer pre-orders are still valid.

First-wave amiibo figures Wii Fit Trainer, Villager, and Marth have not yet seen a second print run in North America, leading Nintendo fans to import cheaper equivalent figures from Japan. Amazon additionally sold out of its initial allotment of Sonic the Hedgehog figurines after opening pre-orders last week, hinting at another impending post-launch shortage.

JoystiqSmash Bros. creator Sakurai also has trouble tracking down amiibo originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Jan 2015 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsamiibonintendosuper-smash-bros-2014super-smash-bros-for-wii-uwii-uMon, 26 Jan 2015 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[3D After Burner 2: M2's quest for port perfection]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/16/3d-after-burner-2-m2s-quest-for-port-perfection/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/16/3d-after-burner-2-m2s-quest-for-port-perfection/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/16/3d-after-burner-2-m2s-quest-for-port-perfection/#comments "Arcade-perfect" is a term that was bandied about in the '80s and '90s as developers struggled to port state-of-the-art arcade games to significantly less powerful console hardware. Compromises were made, features were removed, and many ports that were billed as "arcade-perfect" still needed to be scaled back quite a bit compared to their cabinet counterparts.

These days, consoles boast enough horsepower to emulate classic games at a software level - virtually recreating arcade hardware in order to run original programming code, rather than porting graphics, sound, and gameplay components from scratch. Purists argue, however, that straightforward emulation lacks a certain appeal specific to original hardware. Playing the classic racer Daytona USA using an Xbox 360 controller, for instance, is a vastly different experience compared to sitting in the cockpit of the original arcade cabinet and gripping a force feedback-equipped steering wheel that fights you at every turn.

Arcade-perfect ports still elude many publishers. Japanese porting studio M2, however, sets its sights higher than mere perfection.

M2's 3D After Burner 2, released in the Nintendo 3DS eShop in North America this week, is more than an arcade-perfect port. Not only does it make great strides toward simulating the look and feel of a classic arcade game, but it also improves on the game's original design in ways that its creators planned but never fully achieved. The result is perhaps the first "complete" look at After Burner 2 as it was originally envisioned, and it's a rare treat for classic gaming enthusiasts.

Continue reading 3D After Burner 2: M2's quest for port perfection

Joystiq3D After Burner 2: M2's quest for port perfection originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Jan 2015 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d-after-burner-23dsafter-burner-2arcadem2nintendoportsegaFri, 16 Jan 2015 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo Direct Japan: New Rhythm Heaven, Style Savvy games announced]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/16/nintendo-direct-japan-new-rhythm-heaven-style-savvy-games-anno/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/16/nintendo-direct-japan-new-rhythm-heaven-style-savvy-games-anno/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/16/nintendo-direct-japan-new-rhythm-heaven-style-savvy-games-anno/#comments
Nintendo fans in Japan saw a slightly different Nintendo Direct presentation earlier this week than their compatriots in North America and Europe, as the company revealed a handful of upcoming Japanese games that are unlikely to see release elsewhere in the world.

First up is a 3DS Rhythm Heaven compilation that collects a large number of music-driven minigames featured in previous series entries. The collection will feature 30 new minigames in addition to 70 graphically updated stages previously seen in Rhythm Heaven, Rhythm Heaven Fever, and the Japan-only Game Boy Advance series debut Rhythm Tengoku.

A new Style Savvy sequel is also in the works, following up on predecessor games released stateside on the DS and 3DS. Girls Mode 3, as it's called in Japan, will offer fashion-focused gameplay that challenges players to manage their own boutique and create ensemble outfits for picky customers.

Other games featured exclusively in Japan's Nintendo Direct presentation include the HAL Labs-developed 3DS puzzle-platformer Hako Boy (Box Boy), 3DS RPG The Legend of Legacy, cross-platform online mahjong sim Yakuman Houou, and Rodea: The Sky Soldier, a 3DS and Wii U aerial action game created by Yuji Naka's studio Prope.

Games omitted from the North American and European Nintendo Direct presentations are not currently scheduled for release in either region.

[Video: Nintendo / NintenDaan]

JoystiqNintendo Direct Japan: New Rhythm Heaven, Style Savvy games announced originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Jan 2015 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsbox-boygirls-mode-3hako-boynintendorhythm-heavenrodea-the-sky-soldierstyle-savvythe-legend-of-legacywii-uFri, 16 Jan 2015 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Driveclub gets free Japan track DLC later this month]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/16/driveclub-gets-free-japan-track-dlc-later-this-month/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/16/driveclub-gets-free-japan-track-dlc-later-this-month/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/16/driveclub-gets-free-japan-track-dlc-later-this-month/#comments Evolution Studios revealed that Driveclub players will receive a free set of Japan DLC tracks as part of an update launching later this month.

The pack includes the new Nakasendo challenge, a lengthy point-to-point race featuring trackside cherry blossom trees and other traditional Japanese aesthetic elements. The track is one of several arriving in this month's update, and a collection of new cars, including the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 Centennial Edition, will accompany the launch for Season Pass buyers.

A full runthrough of the Nakasendo track is available here. A more specific release date for the free DLC is not yet known.

[Image: Evolution Studios]

JoystiqDriveclub gets free Japan track DLC later this month originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Jan 2015 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcdriveclubevolution-studiosplaystationps4updateFri, 16 Jan 2015 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[December NPD: Xbox One leads consoles in December, hardware sales surge in 2014]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/15/december-npd-xbox-one-leads-consoles-in-december-hardware-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/15/december-npd-xbox-one-leads-consoles-in-december-hardware-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/15/december-npd-xbox-one-leads-consoles-in-december-hardware-sale/#comments Video game hardware sales saw a significant uptick last year in comparison to 2013, but software sales at retail continue to chart a decline, the NPD Group's latest report states.

Hardware sales saw a slight drop to $1.31 billion in December compared to the $1.37 billion earned during the same period last year. Annual hardware sales for 2014 peaked at $5.07 billion, however, representing a 20 percent increase over the $4.24 billion reported in 2013.

Software sales at retail channels totaled $5.30 billion in 2014, dropping 13 percent compared to 2013's reported $6.11 billion.

Though console-specific sales numbers are not available, Microsoft notes that the Xbox One emerged as 2014's "best-selling console in the U.S. in November and December."

Continue reading December NPD: Xbox One leads consoles in December, hardware sales surge in 2014

JoystiqDecember NPD: Xbox One leads consoles in December, hardware sales surge in 2014 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Jan 2015 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsmicrosoftnintendonpdpcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3ps4vitawii-uxboxxbox-oneThu, 15 Jan 2015 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo of America addresses lack of non-XL New 3DS systems, bundled chargers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/15/nintendo-of-america-addresses-lack-of-non-xl-new-3ds-systems-bu/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/15/nintendo-of-america-addresses-lack-of-non-xl-new-3ds-systems-bu/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/15/nintendo-of-america-addresses-lack-of-non-xl-new-3ds-systems-bu/#comments Yesterday's announcement of a North American release date for the New Nintendo 3DS XL left a few unanswered questions for fans looking forward to the platform's non-XL hardware variant. Today, Nintendo addressed those concerns.

Continue reading Nintendo of America addresses lack of non-XL New 3DS systems, bundled chargers

JoystiqNintendo of America addresses lack of non-XL New 3DS systems, bundled chargers originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Jan 2015 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dshardware-bundlenew-3dsnew-nintendo-3dsnew-nintendo-3ds-xlnintendoThu, 15 Jan 2015 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Never Alone, Jackbox Party Pack discounted on Xbox Live]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/14/never-alone-jackbox-party-pack-discounted-on-xbox-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/14/never-alone-jackbox-party-pack-discounted-on-xbox-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/14/never-alone-jackbox-party-pack-discounted-on-xbox-live/#comments Co-op puzzle platformer Never Alone and the five-game Jackbox Party Pack headline this week's Deals With Gold lineup on Xbox Live, as publishers Capcom and 2K offer steep price drops for several featured Xbox 360 games.

Xbox 360 owners can pick up cheap Games On Demand versions of featured games like Borderlands 2, Spec Ops: The Line, and the original Dead Rising, along with discounted add-on content for BioShock Infinite, SSX, and Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel. The Xbox One versions of the 2D Minecraft-like Terraria and WWE 2K15 are also on sale this week for Xbox Live Gold subscribers.

Listed prices are active through January 19.

[Image: Upper One Games]

JoystiqNever Alone, Jackbox Party Pack discounted on Xbox Live originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Jan 2015 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>discountjackbox-party-packmicrosoftnever-alonesaleterrariawwe-2k15xboxxbox-live-goldxbox-oneWed, 14 Jan 2015 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Phantom Dust for Xbox One will retell original game's story, may release in 2015]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/14/phantom-dust-for-xbox-one-will-retell-original-games-story-may/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/14/phantom-dust-for-xbox-one-will-retell-original-games-story-may/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/14/phantom-dust-for-xbox-one-will-retell-original-games-story-may/#comments The upcoming JRPG Phantom Dust for Xbox One will offer a "reimagining" of the story featured in the game's original 2005 Xbox release, Microsoft Studios Creative Director Ken Lobb revealed on The Inner Circle podcast this week.

Few details regarding Phantom Dust were divulged since its E3 2014 unveiling, but Lobb clarifies that it will feature improvements to the original game's pacing and storyline. Limited sales following Phantom Dust's initial release drove the decision to produce a remake, rather than continue its story.

Lobb additionally states that Phantom Dust may be better-suited to a Killer Instinct-styled free-to-play release, claiming that "gamers might not want to go out and take a sixty dollar risk" on a niche deck-building strategy game. Lobb notes that Phantom Dust "may or may not" see a release in 2015.

[Image: Joystiq]

JoystiqPhantom Dust for Xbox One will retell original game's story, may release in 2015 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Jan 2015 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftmicrosoft-studiosphantom-dustxbox-oneWed, 14 Jan 2015 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox One February system update introduces game hubs, TV updates]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/14/xbox-one-february-system-update-introduces-game-hubs-tv-updates/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/14/xbox-one-february-system-update-introduces-game-hubs-tv-updates/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/14/xbox-one-february-system-update-introduces-game-hubs-tv-updates/#comments
Microsoft detailed a new system update rolling out to Xbox One consoles next month that will introduce game-specific hub areas, among other new and expanded features.

Following the launch of February's update, Xbox One games will each have their own hub area that displays leaderboards, clips and broadcasts, and content from top players. The patch will also enable a transparency feature for Home tiles, allowing players to tweak visibility of custom background images.

The Xbox One's TV-specific functionality will see additional features and updates, enabling TV trending in OneGuide and live TV streaming on Windows Phone and Android devices. Members of the Xbox One preview program can download the system update starting today.

[Video: Microsoft]

JoystiqXbox One February system update introduces game hubs, TV updates originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Jan 2015 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>firmware-updatemicrosoftsystem-updatexbox-oneWed, 14 Jan 2015 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GTA5 tops PS4 digital sales charts for December]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/13/gta5-tops-ps4-digital-sales-charts-for-december/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/13/gta5-tops-ps4-digital-sales-charts-for-december/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/13/gta5-tops-ps4-digital-sales-charts-for-december/#comments Gamers who found a PlayStation 4 under their Christmas trees last month very quickly turned their holiday cheer into murderous bloodshed, as Sony revealed that Rockstar's remastered port of Grand Theft Auto 5 ranked as the PlayStation 4's most popular digital purchase in the month of December.

GTA 5 beat out Minecraft: PlayStation 4 Edition, Battlefield 4, and The Walking Dead: Season Two to claim the platform's top digital sales spot last month. Digital versions of Minecraft: PlayStation 3 Edition and Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare ranked as the PlayStation 3's best digital sellers in December, while Minecraft: PlayStation Vita Edition and Sword Art Online: Hollow Fragment headed up the PS Vita charts.

December was also a big month for classic RPGs. Konami's recently reissued Suikoden 2 took top honors in Sony's PS Classics sales chart last month, leading over the original Suikoden and Square Enix's Final Fantasy 7.

[Image: Rockstar]

JoystiqGTA5 tops PS4 digital sales charts for December originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Jan 2015 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chartsgrand-theft-auto-5gta5minecraftplaystationplaystation-vitaps3ps4rockstarsales-chartssuikoden-2vitaTue, 13 Jan 2015 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The best and fastest: Highlights from Awesome Games Done Quick 2015]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/13/the-best-and-fastest-highlights-from-awesome-games-done-quick-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/13/the-best-and-fastest-highlights-from-awesome-games-done-quick-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/13/the-best-and-fastest-highlights-from-awesome-games-done-quick-2/#comments The annual Awesome Games Done Quick marathon is one of the biggest charity events in gaming, with this year's show raising more than $1 million in charitable donations for the Prevent Cancer Foundation over a grueling week-long campaign. During the course of the event, gamers from across the globe gathered to complete classic and modern games at lightning speed, producing amazing playthroughs and earning thousands of viewer donations from the collective atmosphere and camaraderie.

This year's event was the most financially successful to date, and we've already covered highlights like this ultra-quick Pokemon Blue playthrough and an unlikely Mischief Makers marriage proposal. With more than 100 hours of speedruns to sift through, however, it may be tough to find the best of the best. With that in mind, here are our favorite runs from AGDQ 2015, with links to the original Twitch archives provided by this Reddit thread. You've got a lot to catch up on if you missed out on this year's event, so let's dive right in.

Continue reading The best and fastest: Highlights from Awesome Games Done Quick 2015

JoystiqThe best and fastest: Highlights from Awesome Games Done Quick 2015 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Jan 2015 17:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>agdq-2015awesome-games-done-quickcharitymarathonpcspeedrunTue, 13 Jan 2015 17:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft Studios lays out Let's Play monetization rules]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/12/microsoft-studios-lays-out-lets-play-monetization-rules/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/12/microsoft-studios-lays-out-lets-play-monetization-rules/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/12/microsoft-studios-lays-out-lets-play-monetization-rules/#comments Microsoft Studios has outlined a revised ruleset for players looking to monetize footage from Microsoft-published games on video-sharing sites, granting permission to Let's Players and Twitch streamers with some stipulations.

Under the publisher's rules, players may monetize footage from Microsoft Studios games if it was captured during normal gameplay, without the use of reverse engineering or hacking. Microsoft's rules additionally prohibit the use of gameplay footage to produce content that is pornographic, lewd, obscene, vulgar, discriminatory, or otherwise "objectionable."

"Whether an Item is 'objectionable' is up to us," the rules page states, "but you can expect us to be concerned if a significant number of people in the game's community or the public at large report the content as offensive."

Additional rules prohibit gameplay footage gated behind paid-access websites and subscription-based services. Revenue earned through network partnerships is still permissible, however. A full list of Microsoft's revised guidelines is available here.

[Image: Microsoft]

JoystiqMicrosoft Studios lays out Let's Play monetization rules originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Jan 2015 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lets-playmicrosoftmicrosoft-studiosmonetizationstreamingtwitchxboxxbox-oneMon, 12 Jan 2015 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[3D After Burner 2 simulates multiple arcade cabinet styles]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/12/3d-after-burner-2-simulates-multiple-arcade-cabinet-styles/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/12/3d-after-burner-2-simulates-multiple-arcade-cabinet-styles/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/12/3d-after-burner-2-simulates-multiple-arcade-cabinet-styles/#comments If your memories of Sega's classic arcade shoot-'em-up After Burner 2 are tied to one of the game's many unique cabinet styles, a new port for the Nintendo 3DS will hit you with an unexpected wave of nostalgia. The upcoming 3D After Burner 2 will simulate all of the game's arcade cabinet variations, porting studio M2 revealed as part of an ongoing interview series this week.

"The game had a number of arcade cabinet variations, starting with the 'Double Cradle' (moved both forward/backward and left/right) and the 'Single Cradle' (moved left/right)," the article reads. "More variations were released later, including 'Sit-down' and 'Upright' variations." Footage demonstrating the "Double Cradle" variant is available here.

3D After Burner 2 will simulate any of these machines at the player's option, surrounding the gameplay screen with cabinet artwork and flickering lights that indicate incoming enemy attacks. Another option simulates cabinet movement, tilting the emulated gameplay screen at appropriate angles according to player flight paths.

M2 previously simulated arcade cabinet aesthetics and motion in last year's 3DS ports of Space Harrier and Super Hang-On. 3D After Burner 2 will launch for the Nintendo 3DS eShop in North America this Thursday, January 15.

[Image: Sega]

Joystiq3D After Burner 2 simulates multiple arcade cabinet styles originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Jan 2015 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d-after-burner-23dsafter-burner-2eshopm2nintendosegaMon, 12 Jan 2015 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rogue Legacy coming to Xbox One 'sometime-ish' this year]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/09/rogue-legacy-coming-to-xbox-one-sometime-ish-this-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/09/rogue-legacy-coming-to-xbox-one-sometime-ish-this-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/09/rogue-legacy-coming-to-xbox-one-sometime-ish-this-year/#comments Developer Cellar Door Games confirmed that an Xbox One version of its roguelike platformer Rogue Legacy is in the works, non-specifically narrowing down a release date to "sometime-ish." A studio representative later told Polygon that a release is "definitely coming this year."

Rogue Legacy originally launched for PC platforms in 2013 before making its console debut on the PlayStation 4, PS3, and PS Vita as a Cross-Buy release last year. Boasting a steep difficulty curve, Rogue Legacy challenges players to traverse into a randomly generated castle with characters who inherit traits and equipment from their predecessors.

Further details regarding Rogue Legacy's upcoming Xbox One port are not yet known.

[Image: Cellar Door Games]

JoystiqRogue Legacy coming to Xbox One 'sometime-ish' this year originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 Jan 2015 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cellar-door-gamesmicrosoftrogue-legacyxbox-oneFri, 09 Jan 2015 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dragon Ball Xenoverse delayed to late February in Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/09/dragon-ball-xenoverse-delayed-to-late-february-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/09/dragon-ball-xenoverse-delayed-to-late-february-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/09/dragon-ball-xenoverse-delayed-to-late-february-in-europe/#comments
Bandai Namco's self-insert fanfiction brawler Dragon Ball Xenoverse has shifted to a late February release date in Europe in an effort "to ensure the highest possible gameplay experience for our fans," the publisher states.

In Dragon Ball Xenoverse, players guide a custom-created character through the Dragon Ball timeline, righting past wrongs and experiencing alternate takes on landmark series events. By fighting alongside familiar series characters, you'll unlock their moves and outfits for use in Xenoverse's campaign, and the characters themselves are playable in other included gameplay modes.

Xenoverse is still on track to launch for the Xbox One, Xbox 360, PlayStation 4, PS3, and PC platforms via Steam in North America on February 17. A European release will follow on February 27.

[Video: Bandai Namco]

Continue reading Dragon Ball Xenoverse delayed to late February in Europe

JoystiqDragon Ball Xenoverse delayed to late February in Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 Jan 2015 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandai-namcodimpsdragon-ball-xenoversemicrosoftpcplaystationps3ps4release-datexboxxbox-oneFri, 09 Jan 2015 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Next week's Destiny patch fixes Crota's End exploits]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/09/next-weeks-destiny-patch-fixes-crotas-end-exploits/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/09/next-weeks-destiny-patch-fixes-crotas-end-exploits/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/09/next-weeks-destiny-patch-fixes-crotas-end-exploits/#comments Bungie will deploy a Destiny patch fixing several issues within the recently introduced DLC raid mission Crota's End, addressing lingering bugs before introducing a harder difficulty mode for the level.

Notably, the patch will eliminate the "knee glitch" that allowed players to easily take out raid boss Crota by yanking a teammate's LAN cable during a specific mid-battle moment. The update will additionally tweak Crota's End treasure chest contents, add new requirements for the bridge encounter, and fix enemy-spawning bugs that currently prevent some players from fighting the Deathsinger.

Bungie's patch will begin to roll out for Destiny players on January 13.

[Image: Bungie]

JoystiqNext week's Destiny patch fixes Crota's End exploits originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 Jan 2015 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bungiecrotas-enddestinydlcmicrosoftpatchplaystationps3ps4the-dark-belowxboxxbox-oneFri, 09 Jan 2015 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Xbox avatars to get a facelift on Xbox One]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/08/report-xbox-avatars-to-get-a-facelift-on-xbox-one/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/08/report-xbox-avatars-to-get-a-facelift-on-xbox-one/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/08/report-xbox-avatars-to-get-a-facelift-on-xbox-one/#comments Xbox avatars may soon return in an upgraded form on the Xbox One, PC platforms, and mobile devices, a pair of recent Microsoft job postings indicate.

"As we cross the threshold to a unified operating system and product experience across Microsoft, it is time to for Xbox avatars to also advance to the next level," the latter posting reads. "Come with us, as we take Xbox avatars on their biggest adventure yet in new Xbox experiences. You will be part of the broader Xbox Experiences team, which owns the Xbox One Shell, and the Xbox experiences across console, desktop, slate, mobile, iOS, and Android."

Created by Microsoft-owned studio Rare, Xbox avatars made their debut as part of an Xbox 360 firmware update in 2008, allowing Xbox Live members to associate digital characters with their gamertags. Though avatars and purchasable customization items remain a focus on the Xbox 360, the characters aren't currently given the same treatment on the Xbox One, where they only appear as part of a gamerpic photo app.

"We're always looking for talented people to innovate now and in the future," a Microsoft spokesperson told Eurogamer in response to a request for clarification. "We don't have any further comment on this or any other job posting."

[Image: Microsoft]

JoystiqReport: Xbox avatars to get a facelift on Xbox One originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Jan 2015 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidavatariosipadiphonemicrosoftmobilepcreportxboxxbox-avatarsxbox-oneThu, 08 Jan 2015 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Minecraft was YouTube's second-most popular search query of 2014]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/08/minecraft-was-youtubes-second-most-popular-search-query-of-2014/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/08/minecraft-was-youtubes-second-most-popular-search-query-of-2014/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/08/minecraft-was-youtubes-second-most-popular-search-query-of-2014/#comments Mojang's breakout hit Minecraft took second place in a Google-issued list of the most popular YouTube search queries of 2014, ranking immediately behind the word "music" in terms of search frequency.

According to Google, the word "Minecraft" was more frequently searched on YouTube in 2014 than the term "movies." Gaming personality PewDiePie also ranked among the service's most popular searches in 2014, trailing queries for Disney's Frozen and for artists Drake and Beyonce.

Continue reading Minecraft was YouTube's second-most popular search query of 2014

JoystiqMinecraft was YouTube's second-most popular search query of 2014 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Jan 2015 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidiosipadiphonemicrosoftminecraftmobilemojangpcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3ps4vitaxboxxbox-oneyoutubeThu, 08 Jan 2015 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Xenogears, SaGa Frontier resurface in Theatrhythm Curtain Call DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/08/xenogears-saga-frontier-resurface-in-theatrhythm-curtain-call-d/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/08/xenogears-saga-frontier-resurface-in-theatrhythm-curtain-call-d/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/08/xenogears-saga-frontier-resurface-in-theatrhythm-curtain-call-d/#comments Xenogears, SaGa Frontier, and other classic RPGs from Square Enix's back catalog make an appearance as part of this week's DLC lineup for the publisher's 3DS rhythm game Final Fantasy Theatrhythm: Curtain Call.

New Battle Music Sequence tracks hitting the eShop today include Final Fantasy 7's "Opening: Bombing Mission," "Primal Judgment" from Final Fantasy 14, "Soaring" from Xenogears, and "Last Battle: T260G" from SaGa Frontier.

Players can also download the Battle Music Sequence track "Sacrifice Part Three" plucked from the Japan-exclusive Secret of Mana follow-up Seiken Densetsu 3 starting today, along with the Field Music Sequence stage "In Search of the Sword of Mana," originally featured in the Game Boy action-RPG Final Fantasy Adventure.

All DLC tracks are priced at 99 cents apiece. Square Enix notes that additional songs will hit the eShop on January 22.

[Image: Square Enix)

Continue reading Xenogears, SaGa Frontier resurface in Theatrhythm Curtain Call DLC

JoystiqXenogears, SaGa Frontier resurface in Theatrhythm Curtain Call DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Jan 2015 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdlceshopfinal-fantasynintendosaga-frontiertheatrhythm-final-fantasy-curtain-callxenogearsThu, 08 Jan 2015 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Nyko unveils Data Bank hard drive upgrade kit for PS4]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/07/nyko-unveils-data-bank-hard-drive-upgrade-kit-for-ps4/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/07/nyko-unveils-data-bank-hard-drive-upgrade-kit-for-ps4/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/07/nyko-unveils-data-bank-hard-drive-upgrade-kit-for-ps4/#comments Peripheral manufacturer Nyko unveiled its upcoming Data Bank accessory at CES this week, promising users a cheap and easy way to upgrade their PlayStation 4's storage capacity using a standard 3.5-inch desktop computer hard drive.

A year into the console's lifespan, PlayStation 4 owners may find themselves running short of space on the platform's included 500GB hard drive. While the PS4's stock drive can be swapped out with a larger-capacity 2.5-inch hard drive intended for laptops, upgrading can prove costly, given the increased price of 2.5-inch drives compared to 3.5-inch models.

Nyko's Data Bank sits atop the PlayStation 4 after partially removing the console's casing, and draws on the PS4's AC adapter to power an attached 3.5-inch hard drive. Nyko tells IGN that it's aiming for a "$30-$40 price range" for the peripheral. Compatible hard drives are sold separately.

[Image: Nyko)

JoystiqNyko unveils Data Bank hard drive upgrade kit for PS4 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Jan 2015 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoryces-2015data-banknykoperipheralplaystationps4Wed, 07 Jan 2015 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Best of the Rest: Danny's picks of 2014]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/07/best-of-the-rest-dannys-picks-of-2014/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/07/best-of-the-rest-dannys-picks-of-2014/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/07/best-of-the-rest-dannys-picks-of-2014/#commentsATTENTION: The year 2014 has concluded its temporal self-destruct sequence. If you are among the escapees, please join us in salvaging and preserving the best games from the irradiated chrono-debris.
Fantasy Life

Sometimes, you just wanna sidequest. For those times, there's Fantasy Life.

Fantasy Life is fun in the way that checking off items on a checklist is fun. There's a solid action-RPG here from Professor Layton series creator Level-5, sure, but much of my time in Fantasy Life was spent completing sidequests, crafting equipment, and hunting down component items so that I could craft more equipment and complete more sidequests. You don't even have to kill anything to complete the game - you can smith, cook, sew, and alchemize your way to victory if that's the way you want to play it.

Fantasy Life is an endless grind that remains compelling even after I've completed hundreds of its quests. If you don't fit into its niche, you'll be bored immediately. If you're a specific breed of completionist, Fantasy Life is impossible to put down. In either case, beware.

Continue reading Best of the Rest: Danny's picks of 2014

JoystiqBest of the Rest: Danny's picks of 2014 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Jan 2015 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsaccess-gamesbest-of-2014best-of-the-restbest-of-the-rest-2014d4d4-dark-dreams-dont-dieescape-goat-2fantasia-music-evolvedfantasy-lifeharmonixjoystiq-best-of-2014level-5magicaltimebeanmicrosoftnintendopcplaystationps4square-enixswery65theatrhythm-final-fantasy-curtain-callxbox-oneWed, 07 Jan 2015 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Players report sporadic PSN connection issues]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/07/psa-players-report-sporadic-psn-connection-issues/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/07/psa-players-report-sporadic-psn-connection-issues/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/07/psa-players-report-sporadic-psn-connection-issues/#comments Sony is currently investigating PlayStation Network connection issues affecting a number of users this morning, citing "heavy network traffic" as a culprit via its support page.

"We're aware that some players are seeing drops on PSN," the official PlayStation Twitter account confirms. "Engineers are on the case and investigating."

Today's reports follow up on the recent restoration of PSN service after a disruptive DDoS attack on Christmas Eve. A timeframe for a fix is not yet known.

[Image: Sony)

JoystiqPSA: Players report sporadic PSN connection issues originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Jan 2015 11:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstationplaystation-networkplaystation-vitaps3ps4psavitaWed, 07 Jan 2015 11:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq Top 10 of 2014: Shovel Knight]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/03/joystiq-top-10-of-2014-shovel-knight/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/03/joystiq-top-10-of-2014-shovel-knight/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/03/joystiq-top-10-of-2014-shovel-knight/#commentsATTENTION: The year 2014 has concluded its temporal self-destruct sequence. If you are among the escapees, please join us in salvaging and preserving the best games from the irradiated chrono-debris.

Retro-inspired platformers are practically synonymous with the indie scene, and the genre's almost as active nowadays as it was back in the early console era. With so much competition already on the market, what makes Yacht Club Games' throwback platformer, Shovel Knight, worth a spot in our list of the best games of 2014?

It has a rare devotion to authenticity, for one thing. Similar in premise to Capcom's NES classic DuckTales, Shovel Knight stars an unlikely hero equipped with an unconventional but multifaceted weapon. Making the most out of simple mechanics is a staple of the 8-bit era, and Shovel Knight himself is a shining example, showcasing a robust moveset in spite of his seemingly limited capabilities. Like the best games from the last millennium, it won't take you long before you've mastered Shovel Knight's initial learning curve and find yourself chaining carefully timed pogo bounces in order to reach faraway platforms.

It's also incredibly faithful to its source material. Like its ancient 8-bit brethren, Shovel Knight is built with hardware limitations in mind, mostly adhering to standards with its tile-based backgrounds, limited color palettes, and exceptionally catchy soundtrack that never exceeds its limited number of allotted sound channels. These are the sort of details that you won't notice unless you're specifically looking for them, but working together in concert they legitimize the experience, and complete the illusion that Shovel Knight escaped from the flannel clutches of the early '90s.

Continue reading Joystiq Top 10 of 2014: Shovel Knight

JoystiqJoystiq Top 10 of 2014: Shovel Knight originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 03 Jan 2015 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsbest-of-2014gotyjoystiq-best-of-2014macnintendopcrecommendedshovel-knighttop-10yacht-club-gamesSat, 03 Jan 2015 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Kalimba review: Co-op will tear us apart]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/31/kalimba-review-co-op-will-tear-us-apart/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/31/kalimba-review-co-op-will-tear-us-apart/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/31/kalimba-review-co-op-will-tear-us-apart/#commentsXbox One
Co-op has brought me some of the greatest joy I've ever experienced in games. It also frequently leads to bouts of murderous rage. The co-op in Kalimba, a stylish Xbox One-exclusive puzzle-platformer from the creator of Max: The Curse of Brotherhood, falls more in the second category, and is more likely to inspire anger and hurt feelings than elation.

Kalimba offers a distinct co-op campaign in addition to a collection of single-player levels. Beware, though: You and your co-op partner must be on the same skill level and puzzle-solving wavelength in order to make any progress whatsoever. If you want to learn who your true friends are, it's anyone who doesn't bludgeon you to death with an Xbox One controller after spending half an hour with Kalimba.

Continue reading Kalimba review: Co-op will tear us apart

JoystiqKalimba review: Co-op will tear us apart originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 31 Dec 2014 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kalimbamicrosoftpress-playxbox-oneWed, 31 Dec 2014 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Couch co-op games to keep you warm this winter]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/29/couch-co-op-games-to-keep-you-warm-this-winter/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/29/couch-co-op-games-to-keep-you-warm-this-winter/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/29/couch-co-op-games-to-keep-you-warm-this-winter/#comments Winter is upon us, and now's a great time to cuddle up with your significant other or a close buddy for some couch co-op. It's not just a great way to grow closer to the ones you love - add a blanket to the mix and it's a cost-effective way to stave off the cold. Many of 2014's games are better experienced with a co-op partner, and we're featuring a dozen of this year's best right here in the pages ahead.

For the purposes of this feature, we're highlighting games that only offer local co-op, with no option for online cooperative play. This year saw the release of several exceptional games that feature online co-op in addition to local multiplayer (including Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris, Earth Defense Force 2025, and Halo: The Master Chief Collection), but these particular games require a friend in close proximity in order to enjoy their co-op features.

Online or not, what are your favorite co-op games released this year? Drop us a comment and let us know!

>>Couch Co-op Games Perfect for the Winter<<

[Image: Miramax]

JoystiqCouch co-op games to keep you warm this winter originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Dec 2014 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>co-opco-op-gamescouch-co-oprecommendedMon, 29 Dec 2014 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The five worst console games of 2014]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/25/the-five-worst-console-games-of-2014/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/25/the-five-worst-console-games-of-2014/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/25/the-five-worst-console-games-of-2014/#comments 2014 may have been the worst year yet for bad console games -- they're practically extinct at this point. Sure, many of this year's games were divisive, or flawed, or buggy, but few were outright terrible. Ballooning budgets force AAA games to maintain some degree of quality control (well, mostly), and even the indies have gotten their act together, producing modestly scoped, reasonably priced games that aren't all that upsetting even when they disappoint.

As a lover of trash, I'm troubled.

Fortunately, a few truly awful games rose to the top of the garbage heap to sparkle as gleaming, irredeemable turds. I'm glad to have played these games, but I think we, as an industry, can do better. Let's vow to release more bad games in 2015. And not just bad games for Duck Dynasty fans, either - let's make bad games that all of us can enjoy.

>>The five worst console games of 2014<<

JoystiqThe five worst console games of 2014 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Dec 2014 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>recommendedWorst-of-2014Thu, 25 Dec 2014 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Deliver season's beatings via Killer Instinct Classic's new online multiplayer mode]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/24/deliver-seasons-beatings-via-killer-instinct-classics-new-onli/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/24/deliver-seasons-beatings-via-killer-instinct-classics-new-onli/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/24/deliver-seasons-beatings-via-killer-instinct-classics-new-onli/#comments If you get an Xbox One in your Christmas stocking this year (by the way, we need to have a chat about your monstrously huge fire hazard of a stocking), you'll soon have a new way of beating up on your faraway friends. Killer Instinct Classic will receive an online multiplayer mode as part of a free update launching tonight.

Released last year via Killer Instinct's digital Ultra Edition, Killer Instinct Classic is an emulated port of Rare's 1994 arcade one-on-one fighter. Tonight's update will introduce an online multiplayer option, along with several fixes and improvements for the core Killer Instinct game.

Another recent update unlocked holiday-themed costumes for Killer Instinct characters TJ Combo, Orchid and Sabrewulf. 'Tis the season.

[Image: Microsoft]

JoystiqDeliver season's beatings via Killer Instinct Classic's new online multiplayer mode originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Dec 2014 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>iron-galaxy-studioskiller-instinct-2013killer-instinct-classicmicrosoftonline-multiplayerpatchupdatexbox-oneWed, 24 Dec 2014 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Touhou Project games coming to PlayStation 4, PS Vita]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/19/touhou-project-games-coming-to-playstation-4-ps-vita/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/19/touhou-project-games-coming-to-playstation-4-ps-vita/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/19/touhou-project-games-coming-to-playstation-4-ps-vita/#comments The Touhou Project will make its console and portable debut in Japan starting next year with the launch of a series of officially licensed, fan-made games for the PlayStation 4 and PS Vita, series creator ZUN revealed this week (via Siliconera).

Named as the "most prolific fan-made shooter series" by Guinness World Records, the Touhou Project is a long-running, single-developer franchise helmed by its pseudonymous creator ZUN. Initially a hobbyist project, Touhou evolved to encompass a multitude of commercially produced spinoff games and media works from indie creators worldwide. Previous Touhou games include the acclaimed PC bullet-hell shooters Imperishable Night and Perfect Cherry Blossom.

Upcoming Touhou releases for PlayStation platforms include the roguelike Mystery Gensokyo and RPG Genius of Sappheiros for the PS Vita. The PlayStation 4 will host Touhou's bullet hell shooter Gensou no Rondo. An additional game, Touhou Sky Arena Matsuri, is also in development for an unnamed platform.

Release dates for the announced games are not yet known. A series of Touhou PlayStation Vita system themes will premiere throughout next year in Japan, priced at 432 yen each.

[Image: Touhou Project)

JoystiqTouhou Project games coming to PlayStation 4, PS Vita originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Dec 2014 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>japanplaystationplaystation-vitaps4touhoutouhou-projectvitazunFri, 19 Dec 2014 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy, Dragon Quest games discounted on mobile]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/19/final-fantasy-dragon-quest-games-discounted-on-mobile/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/19/final-fantasy-dragon-quest-games-discounted-on-mobile/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/19/final-fantasy-dragon-quest-games-discounted-on-mobile/#comments If you've been jonesing for some retro-styled RPG questing but stopped short of buying your favorites when you saw Square Enix's premium mobile game prices, your patience has paid off. Many games in the Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest franchises are now available from iTunes and Google Play at steep discounts as part of Square Enix's Mobile Holiday Sale.

Starting this week, you can pick up remade mobile ports of Final Fantasy 1 and 2 for $3.99 apiece. Final Fantasy 3 through 6 are up for grabs at $7.99 each, and Final Fantasy Tactics is currently on sale for $6.99.

Dragon Quest series fans get some love with price drops for Dragon Quest 2 ($2.99) and Dragon Quest 8 ($12.99). If SNES throwbacks are your thing, you might also want to grab Chrono Trigger at $4.99 and Secret of Mana for $3.99. Sale prices are in effect through January 5.

[Image: Square Enix)

JoystiqFinal Fantasy, Dragon Quest games discounted on mobile originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Dec 2014 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidchrono-triggerdragon-questfinal-fantasyiosipadiphonemobilesecret-of-manaFri, 19 Dec 2014 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Devolver serves up Fork Parker's Holiday Profit Hike for free on Steam]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/18/devolver-serves-up-fork-parkers-holiday-profit-hike-for-free-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/18/devolver-serves-up-fork-parkers-holiday-profit-hike-for-free-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/18/devolver-serves-up-fork-parkers-holiday-profit-hike-for-free-on/#comments If the ongoing Steam Holiday Sale has you strapped for cash, Devolver Digital's faux CFO Fork Parker wants to cut you a deal in Fork Parker's Holiday Profit Hike, a freeware platformer released today on Steam.

Developed by Enter the Gungeon creator Dodge Roll Games, Holiday Profit Hike is a vertically scrolling action game that blends gameplay mechanics from Nintendo's Ice Climber and the classic arcade game Roc'n Rope. Players ascend an icy mountain using an infinite supply of ropes and pulleys, grabbing any cash they find along the way to fill Parker's pocketbook. Be careful, though -- the climb is perilous, and each death deducts cash from Parker's savings to cover medical costs.

It's a short game (there's an achievement for players who can climb the mountain in under 12 minutes), but the platforming within is surprisingly complex, and it'll take you a while to fully grasp how the rope mechanics work. Good luck, and try not to bankrupt Devolver Digital. Think of the indies!

[Image: Devolver Digital)

JoystiqDevolver serves up Fork Parker's Holiday Profit Hike for free on Steam originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 18 Dec 2014 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>devolver-digitalfork-parkerfork-parkers-holiday-profit-hikefreefreewaremacpcsteamwindowsThu, 18 Dec 2014 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Assassin's Creed Unity free game offer now active for Season Pass buyers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/18/assassins-creed-unity-free-game-offer-now-active-for-season-pas/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/18/assassins-creed-unity-free-game-offer-now-active-for-season-pas/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/18/assassins-creed-unity-free-game-offer-now-active-for-season-pas/#comments Ubisoft is giving away free games to Assassin's Creed Unity players who purchased a Season Pass before November 25, fulfilling an offer made in response to widespread bug reports following Unity's November launch.

Eligible players can head to this site to submit a claim. Ubisoft is offering affected players their choice of one of several featured free games, including Far Cry 4, The Crew, Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag, Watch Dogs, Rayman Legends, and Just Dance 2015.

All Assassin's Creed Unity players will receive the upcoming Dead Kings DLC expansion free of charge once it launches next year. Season Pass buyers have until March 15, 2015, to redeem their free game codes.

[Image: Ubisoft)

JoystiqAssassin's Creed Unity free game offer now active for Season Pass buyers originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 18 Dec 2014 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apologyassassins-creed-unityfree-gamemicrosoftpcplaystationps3ps4ubisoftxboxxbox-oneThu, 18 Dec 2014 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Nintendo eShop releases: Mega Man Zero, Meme Run]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/18/new-nintendo-eshop-releases-mega-man-zero-meme-run/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/18/new-nintendo-eshop-releases-mega-man-zero-meme-run/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/18/new-nintendo-eshop-releases-mega-man-zero-meme-run/#comments Mega Man X's often-dead pal Zero joins Nintendo's Virtual Console service today with the launch of Mega Man Zero, a 2002 Game Boy Advance spinoff known for its exemplary platforming and punishing difficulty. Power up Zero with new upgrades and abilities as you keep the peace between humans and Reploids in the century following the events of the Mega Man X series. If you're in the mood for more Mega Man, Capcom is currently hosting a themed eShop sale, dropping the prices of many of the Blue Bomber's games for the NES, SNES, and Game Boy.

SNES brawler Natsume Championship Wrestling also joins the Virtual Console catalog this week, accompanying Wii U eShop releases like EnjoyUp's minimalist arcade-style puzzler 99Moves, multiplayer eat-'em-up Plenty of Fishies, and Internet meme-infused infinite runner (yes, really) Meme Run.

3DS owners can expect to see a digital version of Metal Gear Solid: Snake Eater 3D this week, along with Asterix The Mansions of the Gods, Minecraft-like Cube Creator 3D, and Skipmore's action-RPG puzzler Fairune. If you have any French children hanging around, you'll also want to check out Mes Comptines, which might be the 3DS's first-ever French nursery rhyme compilation.

Hit the break below, s'il vous plait, to see this week's full release lineup.

Continue reading New Nintendo eShop releases: Mega Man Zero, Meme Run

JoystiqNew Nintendo eShop releases: Mega Man Zero, Meme Run originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 18 Dec 2014 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dscapcomeshopkonamimega-man-zeromeme-runmetal-gear-solid-snake-eater-3dnintendonintendoware-weeklywii-uThu, 18 Dec 2014 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon offers PS4, camera and two games for under $450]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/17/amazon-offers-ps4-camera-and-two-games-for-under-450/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/17/amazon-offers-ps4-camera-and-two-games-for-under-450/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/17/amazon-offers-ps4-camera-and-two-games-for-under-450/#comments Black Friday is now a distant memory, but it's not too late to score a solid deal on a current-gen console in the days leading up to Christmas. Amazon is currently selling a PlayStation 4 hardware bundle that includes a PlayStation camera and two additional games for $440.99.

Along with the hardware on offer, buyers will also receive a digital copy of The Last of Us Remastered and a code for their choice of one of four additional games. Eligible titles include Destiny, NBA 2K15, Far Cry 4, and LittleBigPlanet 3.

If you're looking for a similar deal on the Glacier White PlayStation 4 Destiny Bundle, Best Buy is offering a free copy of Killzone Shadow Fall with the $399.99 package this week.

[Image: Sony]

JoystiqAmazon offers PS4, camera and two games for under $450 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Dec 2014 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bundlehardware-bundleplaystationps4Wed, 17 Dec 2014 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Destiny hot fix tweaks Crota's End raid drops]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/17/destiny-hot-fix-tweaks-crotas-end-raid-drops/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/17/destiny-hot-fix-tweaks-crotas-end-raid-drops/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/17/destiny-hot-fix-tweaks-crotas-end-raid-drops/#comments If you're suffering from a lack of level-boosting loot in Destiny's raids, Bungie has the cure for what ails you. A patch issued this week tweaks gear drop rates within The Dark Below's new raid mission Crota's End, ensuring that more players will receive new equipment for their efforts.

Following this week's patch, Raid gear in Crota's End now begins at level 30, putting players on an upgrade path to level 32. The Crota's End-specific helmet item additionally spawns on Normal Mode now, and Hard Mode players have a better chance of receiving it as a drop.

The fix also addresses issues regarding reputation gains, Hive shield functionality, and Pocket Infinity charging. The patch is available as a free update for all Destiny players on all available platforms.

[Image: Bungie]

JoystiqDestiny hot fix tweaks Crota's End raid drops originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Dec 2014 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bungiedestinymicrosoftpatchplaystationps3ps4updatexboxxbox-oneWed, 17 Dec 2014 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Skylanders Trap Team Light and Dark expansions hit retail this weekend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/17/skylanders-trap-team-light-and-dark-expansions-hit-retail-this-w/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/17/skylanders-trap-team-light-and-dark-expansions-hit-retail-this-w/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/17/skylanders-trap-team-light-and-dark-expansions-hit-retail-this-w/#comments Skylanders veterans will soon be able to master in-game elements never previously seen in the series via a pair of new Skylanders Trap Team expansion packs premiering at retail this weekend.

Trap Masters Knight Mare and Knight Light join the Skylanders roster as part of Trap Team's new Light and Dark Element Expansion Packs. Each pack includes a character figure, a Trap accessory that allows players to trap and control Light and Dark villains, and a location piece that unlocks new levels featuring Light and Dark element-specific content.

Players who ventured through Skylanders Trap Team likely noticed deactivated element gates scattered throughout specific levels. These gates can only be accessed using the new Light and Dark element characters, opening up a significant portion of the game that was locked off since launch.

Trap Team's Light and Dark Element Expansion Packs will launch exclusively at Toys"R"Us stores on December 21 at $29.99 apiece.

[Image: Activision]

Continue reading Skylanders Trap Team Light and Dark expansions hit retail this weekend

JoystiqSkylanders Trap Team Light and Dark expansions hit retail this weekend originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Dec 2014 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsactivisionexpansionmicrosoftnintendoplaystationps3ps4skylanders-trap-teamtoys-for-bobwiiwii-uxboxxbox-oneWed, 17 Dec 2014 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sniper: Ghost Warrior 3 targets 2016 release for PS4, Xbox One, PC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/16/sniper-ghost-warrior-3-targets-2016-release-for-ps4-xbox-one/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/16/sniper-ghost-warrior-3-targets-2016-release-for-ps4-xbox-one/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/16/sniper-ghost-warrior-3-targets-2016-release-for-ps4-xbox-one/#comments A new entry in the million-selling Sniper: Ghost Warrior series is "deep in development" for the Xbox One, PlayStation 4, and PC platforms, developer CI Games announced today.

Sniper: Ghost Warrior 3 will feature a blend of precision shooting and strategic gameplay, challenging players to use stealth in order to safely navigate its open-world environments. Developed by Lords of the Fallen creator CI Games, Sniper: Ghost Warrior 3 is "created from the ground up by an all-star development team," including Sniper Elite V2 senior producer Steve Hart.

Sniper: Ghost Warrior 3 is due to launch in the first half of 2016.

[Image: CI Games]

Continue reading Sniper: Ghost Warrior 3 targets 2016 release for PS4, Xbox One, PC

JoystiqSniper: Ghost Warrior 3 targets 2016 release for PS4, Xbox One, PC originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 16 Dec 2014 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ci-gamesmicrosoftpcplaystationps4sniper-ghost-warrior-3xbox-oneTue, 16 Dec 2014 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Landmark visual novel Steins;Gate heads west on PS3, Vita next year]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/16/landmark-visual-novel-steins-gate-heads-west-on-ps3-vita-next-y/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/16/landmark-visual-novel-steins-gate-heads-west-on-ps3-vita-next-y/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/16/landmark-visual-novel-steins-gate-heads-west-on-ps3-vita-next-y/#comments Acclaimed Japanese visual novel Steins;Gate will be localized and released in North America and Europe next year for the PlayStation 3 and PS Vita, publisher PQube announced today.

Taking place on the streets of Japanese electronics shopping district Akihabara, Steins;Gate tells a sci-fi tale in which its characters can change past events by sending text messages through time. The mystery deepens when the cast receives replies from a dystopian future hinting at a world-changing conspiracy revolving around the Large Hadron Collider.

Steins;Gate topped PC sales charts in Japan for many consecutive months following its initial release in 2010, spawning multiple spinoffs and ports for the Xbox 360, PSP, and mobile platforms. While an English-language PC version premiered earlier this year via JAST USA, PQube's upcoming localization will mark Steins;Gate's first appearance on consoles in North America and Europe.

Speaking to Siliconera, PQube head of marketing Geraint Evans revealed that the company is pursuing a retail launch in addition to a digital release via the PlayStation Network. "I'm personally against digital-only releases, so I will do my very best to ensure a physical release happens," Evans stated.

[Image: PQube]

Continue reading Landmark visual novel Steins;Gate heads west on PS3, Vita next year

JoystiqLandmark visual novel Steins;Gate heads west on PS3, Vita next year originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 16 Dec 2014 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstationplaystation-vitapqubeps3steinsgatevisual-novelvitaTue, 16 Dec 2014 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider: DE, Dark Souls 2 drop to $20 each on Amazon]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/15/tomb-raider-de-dark-souls-2-drop-to-20-each-on-amazon/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/15/tomb-raider-de-dark-souls-2-drop-to-20-each-on-amazon/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/15/tomb-raider-de-dark-souls-2-drop-to-20-each-on-amazon/#comments Heads up if you're in a rush to find last-minute Christmas gifts: Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition (Xbox One/PS4) and Dark Souls 2 (Xbox 360/PS3) are $19.99 apiece on Amazon right now, making either an ideal pick for the gamers on your shopping list.

Other featured deals on Amazon this week include The Last of Us Remastered for $29.99, the Xbox One version of Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor for $27.99, Driveclub for $34.99, and Assassin's Creed Unity for $29.99. Sale prices are in effect through December 20, or while supplies last. A full list of discounts is available at Cheap Ass Gamer.

[Image: Square Enix]

JoystiqTomb Raider: DE, Dark Souls 2 drop to $20 each on Amazon originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 15 Dec 2014 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazondark-souls-2microsoftplaystationps3ps4tomb-raider-definitive-editionxboxxbox-oneMon, 15 Dec 2014 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy 15 English-language trailer hits the road]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/15/final-fantasy-15-english-language-trailer-hits-the-road/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/15/final-fantasy-15-english-language-trailer-hits-the-road/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/15/final-fantasy-15-english-language-trailer-hits-the-road/#comments
It's time to take another look at Final Fantasy 15's TGS trailer -- this time, with translated dialog. The trailer above gives a brief sample of Final Fantasy 15's English-language voice cast as our heroes embark on a fantastical road trip and square off against mammoth creatures. A demo version of Final Fantasy 15 will launch as an exclusive pre-order bonus bundled with Final Fantasy Type-0 HD in March.

[Video: Square Enix]

JoystiqFinal Fantasy 15 English-language trailer hits the road originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 15 Dec 2014 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>final-fantasy-15microsoftplaystationps4square-enixtrailerxbox-oneMon, 15 Dec 2014 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Driveclub's Redline DLC deploys this week in Europe, Dec. 22 in North America]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/15/driveclubs-redline-dlc-deploys-this-week-in-europe-dec-22-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/15/driveclubs-redline-dlc-deploys-this-week-in-europe-dec-22-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/15/driveclubs-redline-dlc-deploys-this-week-in-europe-dec-22-in/#comments Driveclub's next Season Pass expansion pack will take a lap in Europe one week before it hits North American shores, developer Evolution Studios announced via Facebook.

The upcoming Redline DLC adds five new vehicles, including Renault's Alpine A110-50, McLaren's F1 LM, the Ferrari 458 Speciale, the Chevrolet Corvette Stingray, and Mercedes-Benz' SLS AMG Coupe Electric Drive. The pack also adds 11 Tour mode events and a handful of new unlockable Trophies.

The Redline expansion launches first in Europe, Australia, and New Zealand on December 17. A North American release will follow on December 23.

[Image: Sony]

JoystiqDriveclub's Redline DLC deploys this week in Europe, Dec. 22 in North America originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 15 Dec 2014 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcdriveclubevolution-studiosexpansionplaystationps4redlineseason-passMon, 15 Dec 2014 12:30:00 EST