Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2010 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Bastion is Super Giant Games' first title, playable at PAX]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/bastion-is-super-giant-games-first-title-playable-at-pax/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/bastion-is-super-giant-games-first-title-playable-at-pax/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/bastion-is-super-giant-games-first-title-playable-at-pax/#comments When Super Giant Games opened its doors during GDC earlier this year, it revealed it was working on a digital title to be released in 2011. This week, Giant Bomb unveiled that title -- it's called Bastion and should be available for public consumption by next summer.

Supergiant explains Bastion as an "action role-playing game set in a lush imaginative world, in which players must create and fight for civilization's last refuge as a mysterious narrator marks their every move." The "mysterious," somewhat lyrical narrator makes his first appearance in the game's trailer -- which we've dropped after the break. Considering Supergiant's pedigree (ex-EALA Command & Conquer devs) and how beautifully detailed this initial media is, we have high hopes for Bastion.

The game will be playable at PAX Prime this weekend as part of the "PAX 10."

Gallery: Bastion

Continue reading Bastion is Super Giant Games' first title, playable at PAX

JoystiqBastion is Super Giant Games' first title, playable at PAX originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bastionpax-10pax-2010pax-prime-2010release-datesupergiant-gamesThu, 02 Sep 2010 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pachter predicts $100 'Platinum' Xbox Live membership]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/pachter-predicts-100-platinum-xbox-live-membership/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/pachter-predicts-100-platinum-xbox-live-membership/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/pachter-predicts-100-platinum-xbox-live-membership/#comments The bump in cost for a Gold membership on Xbox Live is just the tip of the iceberg, according to game industry seer Michael Pachter. Predicting a $100 plan as the next evolutionary step in subscription options soon to be available to Xbox Live consumers, he told IndustryGamers reports that while the initial extra $10 "translates to around $100 to 150 million per year in additional revenue for Microsoft," the company will "reinvest at least this much in developing other new applications, and will roll out a premium service with $100 to 200 million worth of enhancements. If they can get 2 million users to switch from the $60 plan to the $100 plan, they'll make an extra $80 million a year, and can keep investing to try to grow that business."

It makes sense: Xbox Live is easily one of the biggest draws of the console and consumers have already shown they're willing to pay a premium for it. But even if Microsoft were to offer a "Platinum" service, what could justify what is comparably such a heftier price tag?

"For all I know, the Platinum plan might include virtual goods credits for various Microsoft games," Pachter posits. "If members could get specialized Halo armor or weapons worth the extra $40, they might be more willing to sign up, and it doesn't really cost Microsoft anything to offer things like that." You know what? We may know a few people willing to pay for something like that.

[Thanks, Mark]

JoystiqPachter predicts $100 'Platinum' Xbox Live membership originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gold-subscriptionmichael-pachtermicrosoftplatinumxboxxbox-livexbox-live-goldxbox-live-gold-membershipxbox-live-platinumxbox-live-platinum-membershipThu, 02 Sep 2010 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Inafune: Japanese devs have to 'get humble']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/inafune-japanese-devs-have-to-get-humble/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/inafune-japanese-devs-have-to-get-humble/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/inafune-japanese-devs-have-to-get-humble/#commentsAt last year's TGS, Capcom producer Keiji Inafune had some pretty grim things to say about the Japanese game industry. "I said that comment hoping that the Japanese creators were going to wake up," Inafune told Videogamer in a new interview. "However, there has been no change whatsoever to the situation since last year, so I'm still very pessimistic."

Inafune said that some Japanese developers are "still living the glory of the '80s and '90s," when the NES, Super NES and Genesis delivered a steady stream of hit games from Japan to the world. "So they don't admit that there is a problem to start with." He advised his colleagues to "get humble and start learning what's going on."

Inafune also added that just buying Western companies isn't enough, unless publishers "start working with them properly, rather than just commissioning a game and then putting their name on the final product." One company must be feeling that one in its Extreme Edges.

JoystiqInafune: Japanese devs have to 'get humble' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomindustryjapankeiji-inafuneThu, 02 Sep 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live in September: Halo goodies, free Live Gold, cheap puzzle games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/xbox-live-in-september-halo-goodies-free-live-gold-cheap-puzz/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/xbox-live-in-september-halo-goodies-free-live-gold-cheap-puzz/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/xbox-live-in-september-halo-goodies-free-live-gold-cheap-puzz/#comments A feast of XBLA games may be headed to Xbox Live Marketplace soon, but that's not all there is. First up, there are a lot of festivities planned for the launch of Halo: Reach. Microsoft is dubbing September 14-20 "Invasion Week," and plenty of Halo goodies will be available "including new gear, exciting content, spectacular prizes and a chance to play with the creators of the game." Microsoft will also be offering opening up Xbox Live Gold features to Silver members from September 17-20. Finally, "all fans that jump online" can download a free "Invasion" theme. It's a bit unclear exactly what's meant by "jump online," whether it be players that play Halo: Reach or simply anyone that signs into Live. We've contacted Microsoft for clarification.

New Deals of the Week are headed down the pipeline as well, with Resident Evil 5 "avatar outfits and game add-ons" receiving as yet unspecified discounts next week. The week of September 13, several puzzle games will get the DoTW treatment. Bust-a-Move Live, Puzzle Chronicles and Tower Bloxx Deluxe are all being knocked from 800 MSP ($10) to 400 MSP ($5), while Gyromancer will drop from 1200 MSP ($15) to 800 MSP ($10).

If you still have money to spend after all that, some new Rock Band 3 Avatar items are now on Marketplace, as are two new Games on Demand, Bully: Scholarship Edition and Cabela's African Safari.

JoystiqXbox Live in September: Halo goodies, free Live Gold, cheap puzzle games originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-IndustriesBungieHalo-ReachmicrosoftMicrosoft-Game-StudiosxboxThu, 02 Sep 2010 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Kojima wants a 'Complete' edition of MGS4, if someone else makes it]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/kojima-wants-a-complete-edition-of-mgs4-if-someone-else-makes/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/kojima-wants-a-complete-edition-of-mgs4-if-someone-else-makes/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/kojima-wants-a-complete-edition-of-mgs4-if-someone-else-makes/#comments Poor ol' Hideo Kojima has apparently been on the receiving end of a plethora of demands from his rabid fanbase, all crying out for the integration of some of the PS3's patched-in features into Metal Gear Solid 4. The idiosyncratic developer took time out of his busy schedule of eating bizarre-looking foodstuffs to respond by saying, "I wanted to make a 'Complete Version' with trophy support and 3D, but if I did that I wouldn't be able to work on a new game. I wonder if someone else would make it for me."

Well, gang -- any takers? It really shouldn't be too hard. Just drop a trophy in for completing each boss fight, one for beating the game on its hardest difficulty, and one for beating the game using only your wits and a pornographic magazine. Give them some clever names ("I Only Read It For The Articles," for instance), and baby, you're good to go.

JoystiqKojima wants a 'Complete' edition of MGS4, if someone else makes it originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hideo-kojimakonamiMetal-Gear-Solid-4-Guns-of-the-PatriotsMGS-4MGS4MGS4-Guns-of-the-Patriotsplaystationps3Thu, 02 Sep 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Killzone 3 screenshots feature hoodies, pummeling]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/killzone-3-screenshots-feature-hoodies-pummeling/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/killzone-3-screenshots-feature-hoodies-pummeling/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/killzone-3-screenshots-feature-hoodies-pummeling/#comments Before you and the many thousands of other yous gets a chance to go hands-on with Killzone 3 this weekend at PAX Prime, Famitsu has a smattering of new images to hungrily dig through for new information. One thing solidly confirmed by these shots? Dusters. Hooded dusters, no less!

And hey, if you ask us, there's a severe underuse of dusters in the world of video games. Unfortunately for the gentleman above, he seems to have been socked in the face several moments before the image was taken, so his duster is fluttering through the air along with his torso. Hopefully you'll fare better this weekend at PAX!

JoystiqKillzone 3 screenshots feature hoodies, pummeling originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 19:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>guerrilla-gamesKillzone-3pax-2010pax-primepax-prime-2010playstationps3sceascreenshotssonyThu, 02 Sep 2010 19:40:00 EST<![CDATA[2K Games to stream 'something big' from PAX tomorrow morning]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/2k-games-to-stream-something-big-from-pax-tomorrow-morning/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/2k-games-to-stream-something-big-from-pax-tomorrow-morning/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/2k-games-to-stream-something-big-from-pax-tomorrow-morning/#comments Oh boy -- yes, this certainly seems like an announcement for an announcement, and you know how much we love those (not at all). But 2K Games' blog has posted that "something big is going to happen at the 2K Games booth" this weekend for PAX 2010, and it's got everyone riled up. If nothing else, just consider this a PSA that there will be a live stream starting tomorrow morning at 10AM PDT, in which we'll supposedly see "something big." An elephant? An Ubisoft Toronto game? Tom Hanks after a wish?

If it helps (it doesn't), Duke Nukem co-creator George Broussard has tweeted a link to a picture of pigs flying, which some folks have taken to mean that Duke Nukem For.. -- oh, never mind, we can't even bring ourselves to say its name. Let's just all wait patiently until the live stream starts tomorrow, and then we won't be disappointed when 2K announces that it has convinced President Christoph Hartmann to attend PAX in a silly gorilla suit.

Joystiq2K Games to stream 'something big' from PAX tomorrow morning originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 19:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesannouncementlivestreampax-2010pax2010pcustreamThu, 02 Sep 2010 19:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Irrational interviews Marvel's Brian Michael Bendis on writing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/irrational-interviews-marvels-brian-michael-bendis-on-writing/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/irrational-interviews-marvels-brian-michael-bendis-on-writing/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/irrational-interviews-marvels-brian-michael-bendis-on-writing/#comments Moving from game development to multidisciplinary writing, Irrational Games' Ken Levine and Shawn Elliott chat with Amazing Spider-Man writer Brian Michael Bendis on the second episode of Irrational Interviews, released this week. Did you know that what became BioShock was heavily seeded by a trip Levine and his wife took to Rockefeller Center? You would've if you'd already listened to the episode! What're you waiting for, dummy?

Direct Download / iTunes Feed / Irrational Interviews RSS Feed

[Image credit: Pinguino]

JoystiqIrrational interviews Marvel's Brian Michael Bendis on writing originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazing-spider-manBioshockbrian-michael-bendisirrationalirrational-gamesirrational-interviewsken-levinemarvelmarvel-comicsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3shawn-elliottwritingxboxThu, 02 Sep 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Thank Japan for this new Kirby's Epic Yarn trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/thank-japan-for-this-new-kirbys-epic-yarn-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/thank-japan-for-this-new-kirbys-epic-yarn-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/thank-japan-for-this-new-kirbys-epic-yarn-trailer/#commentsNintendo announced the Japanese release date for Kirby's Epic Yarn -- October 14 -- and released a new trailer for the occasion. We've embedded it after the break, but we encourage you to go to Nintendo's site anyway, for the most charming video controls you'll ever, ever see.

Continue reading Thank Japan for this new Kirby's Epic Yarn trailer

JoystiqThank Japan for this new Kirby's Epic Yarn trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>good-feeljapankirbykirbys-epic-yarnnintendorelease-datewiiThu, 02 Sep 2010 18:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Ubisoft cautious over new IP, remains focused on established franchises]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/ubisoft-cautious-over-new-ip-remains-focused-on-established-fra/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/ubisoft-cautious-over-new-ip-remains-focused-on-established-fra/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/ubisoft-cautious-over-new-ip-remains-focused-on-established-fra/#comments Ubisoft Europe managing director Alain Corre isn't one to parse words -- for instance, he told GamesIndustry.biz in a recent interview, "The games that are not triple-A are not profitable anymore. And that's changed in the last 18 months." He admitted that "we are still releasing some new franchises," citing Ruse as a calculated aberration. "It's a niche so we know the size of the market for real-time strategy games ... with niche games it's possible to have a hit more than in the triple-A space, especially in the fourth and fifth year of the console cycle."

To Corre, it's a question of investment risk. "To a certain extent it becomes less risky to invest more in a single game or franchise than spreading your investment between three or four games," he explained. "If those three or four games are not at the right quality level, you are sure to lose money. So the business model has changed and we're changing our way of making hardcore games." He said we might not see a new IP push from Ubisoft until the next generation of consoles, which he foresees to be "less than five years" from now.

Oddly, he doesn't bring up Ubisoft Toronto -- a studio headed by Assassin's Creed producer Jade Raymond -- that's said to be working on both "AAA-game" and new IP. Nor did he address the fate of the scantly brought up I Am Alive, supposedly coming out next spring. Based on Corre's statements, we've at least managed to come to the conclusion that Beyond Good & Evil 2 (not a new IP) should be getting a release date during this console cycle. That's ... something?

JoystiqUbisoft cautious over new IP, remains focused on established franchises originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alain-correi-am-alivejade-raymondnew-IPruseubisoftubisoft-europeThu, 02 Sep 2010 18:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Kevin Butler shows us the epic side of PlayStation Move]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/kevin-butler-shows-us-the-epic-side-of-playstation-move/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/kevin-butler-shows-us-the-epic-side-of-playstation-move/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/kevin-butler-shows-us-the-epic-side-of-playstation-move/#comments Sony, here's an idea: just let Kevin Butler control your entire company. Seriously, Sir Howard Stringer is a great guy and all, don't get us wrong -- we've been up plenty of nights bawling our eyes out while he cradled us in his big, burly arms, assuring us that the PS3 would in fact be okay -- but Kevin Butler has proven in his latest ad that he's more than capable for the job.

Just look at the image above and tell us the guy isn't CEO material. Heck, even better: watch the new PlayStation Move ad for yourself past the break and try to tell us it isn't the highlight of your day!

Continue reading Kevin Butler shows us the epic side of PlayStation Move

JoystiqKevin Butler shows us the epic side of PlayStation Move originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adadvertisementcommercialkevin-butlermotion-controlmoveplaystationplaystation-moveps3racquet-sportssceaThu, 02 Sep 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mafia 2 likely to be profitable, Take-Two says]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/mafia-2-likely-to-be-profitable-take-two-says/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/mafia-2-likely-to-be-profitable-take-two-says/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/mafia-2-likely-to-be-profitable-take-two-says/#comments Speaking today during Take-Two's quarterly earnings call, CEO Ben Feder commented on Mafia 2's projected profitability. Perhaps directly rebutting one analyst's recent prediction, Feder assured investors, "Based upon the initial launch, we expect this to be another profitable title for Take-Two." He did not offer specific sales or shipment data for the game's first week at retail, nor did Feder note a general timetable for when to expect Mafia 2 to cross over into the black.

Mafia 2 was released on August 24 to somewhat favorable critical reception, following an eight-year development process that began when 2K Czech set to work on a custom game engine. Our first glimpse of the game (pictured above) came just over three years ago.

JoystiqMafia 2 likely to be profitable, Take-Two says originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 17:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ben-federMafia-2microsoftpcplaystationps3salesTake-TwoxboxThu, 02 Sep 2010 17:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Red Dead Redemption pushes Take-Two Q3 revenue up to $354.1 million]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/red-dead-redemption-pushes-take-two-q3-revenue-up-to-354-1-mill/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/red-dead-redemption-pushes-take-two-q3-revenue-up-to-354-1-mill/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/red-dead-redemption-pushes-take-two-q3-revenue-up-to-354-1-mill/#comments Take-Two has reported that net revenue for its third fiscal quarter, which ended July 31, 2010, reached $354.1 million -- an increase of $259.2 million over the same period last year. The company attributed the rise primarily to Rockstar's Red Dead Redemption, which has shipped more than 6.9 million units life-to-date. And while several older games, including Grand Theft Auto: Episodes from Liberty City, NBA 2K10 and Borderlands, contributed to overall sales at retail, Take-Two highlighted digitally distributed content as a "meaningful component" of this quarter's outcome.

Operating income for the quarter landed at $12.4 million, a big turnaround compared to the $58.3 million loss suffered in the same quarter during 2009, and a minor dip from Q2 2010's $16.9 million. Take-Two's fourth quarter won't benefit from Red Dead's landing impact, but the company already has an extensive lineup of DLC planned for the coming months.


JoystiqRed Dead Redemption pushes Take-Two Q3 revenue up to $354.1 million originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>earningsfinancialfiscal-q3-2010fy-2010q3Red-Dead-Redemptionsalestake-twoThu, 02 Sep 2010 17:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Infamous 2 at PAX: playable, panel and cool shirt]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/infamous-2-at-pax-playable-panel-and-cool-shirt/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/infamous-2-at-pax-playable-panel-and-cool-shirt/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/infamous-2-at-pax-playable-panel-and-cool-shirt/#comments Infamous 2 is set to electrify (hopefully, not literally) the PAX crowd with seven demo kiosks on the show floor this weekend. The demos feature Cole's new glorified cattle prod weapon and will be set up at booth #122, where developer Sucker Punch will be giving away a "limited number" of t-shirts (pictured).

The crew from Sucker Punch will also be holding the "Creating Super Powers" panel in the Seattle Sheraton's Pegasus Theater at 6:30PM PT on Saturday. They'll show off the new Kinetic Pulse power and an enemy known as the "Ravager." It's sure to be electric ... boogie woogie woogie.

JoystiqInfamous 2 at PAX: playable, panel and cool shirt originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>inFamous-2pax-2010pax-prime-2010playstationps3sonysucker-punchThu, 02 Sep 2010 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Call of Duty: Black Ops multiplayer event, in pictures]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/call-of-duty-black-ops-multiplayer-event-in-pictures/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/call-of-duty-black-ops-multiplayer-event-in-pictures/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/call-of-duty-black-ops-multiplayer-event-in-pictures/#comments When Activision drops enough coin to rent out the California Science Center - replete with the Call of Duty: Black Ops logo projected on a real SR-71 Blackbird spy plane - it's only fair that we take pictures and share them with you. Of course, we weren't there for the glitz and glamour, we were busy playing the game's new multiplayer features and interviewing the multiplayer design director (coming soon). Live vicariously through our image gallery below.

Gallery: Call of Duty: Black Ops multiplayer event

JoystiqCall of Duty: Black Ops multiplayer event, in pictures originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActivisionCall-of-Duty-Black-Opsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3TreyarchxboxThu, 02 Sep 2010 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Dead Space 2 to feature 'Soldier vs. Necromorphs' multiplayer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/rumor-dead-space-2-to-feature-soldiers-vs-necromorphs-multip/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/rumor-dead-space-2-to-feature-soldiers-vs-necromorphs-multip/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/rumor-dead-space-2-to-feature-soldiers-vs-necromorphs-multip/#comments According to reports coming out of a recent GameStop conference in Texas, Dead Space 2 will be getting a multiplayer mode in which players will control either Necromorphs or "soldiers" (presumably not welders, then?). GamerNode claims that the mode will consist of "deathmatch-style combat" and will be just one of several multiplayer game modes included when the game launches in early 2011.

Additionally, the source claims that pre-orders of the game at any outlet would net purchasers a free download of Dead Space: Ignition. If you pre-order it at GameStop, you'll allegedly get another bonus: a rivet gun.

Update: EA could only confirm the inclusion of multiplayer in Dead Space 2 to Joystiq, saying, "Dead Space 2 will feature multiplayer where you'll be able to strategically dismember your friends for the first time." Hopefully we'll hear more soon.

JoystiqRumor: Dead Space 2 to feature 'Soldier vs. Necromorphs' multiplayer originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-space-2dead-space-ignitionmicrosoftmultiplayerpcplaystationpre-order-bonusps3rivet-gunrumorsoldiers-vs-necromorphsxboxThu, 02 Sep 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Source: Military-based GameStop stores will not carry Medal of Honor]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/source-military-based-gamestop-stores-will-not-carry-medal-of-h/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/source-military-based-gamestop-stores-will-not-carry-medal-of-h/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/source-military-based-gamestop-stores-will-not-carry-medal-of-h/#comments EA's upcoming Medal of Honor reboot has attracted some controversy due to the inclusion of Taliban fighters in the game's multiplayer mode. A source has informed Joystiq that, in response to the backlash, GameStop stores in Army and Air Force bases will not stock the game. According to the notice sent to employees, "GameStop has agreed out of respect for our past and present Men and Women in uniform we will not carry Medal of Honor in any of our AAFES based stores." The notice specifically mentions playable Taliban fighters as cause for the pullback.

The affected stores will have "all marketing material pulled" and will no longer take reservations for the game. While the move showcases GameStop's sensitivity to the hot-topic issue, stores are nonetheless encouraged to direct buyers to a non-military store. "Customers who enter our AAFES stores and wish to reserve Medal of Honor can and should be directed to the nearest GameStop location off base," the note explains.

The full statement can be read after the break.

Continue reading Source: Military-based GameStop stores will not carry Medal of Honor

JoystiqSource: Military-based GameStop stores will not carry Medal of Honor originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aafesgamestopmedal-of-honorMedal-of-Honor-2010microsoftmilitarypcplaystationps3xboxThu, 02 Sep 2010 16:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Red Dead Redemption has shipped 6.9 million units and counting]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/red-dead-redemption-has-shipped-6-9-million-units/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/red-dead-redemption-has-shipped-6-9-million-units/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/red-dead-redemption-has-shipped-6-9-million-units/#comments Red Dead Redemption has been a bonanza for Take-Two, with the company announcing today that more than of 6.9 million units have been shipped to retail. Take-Two stated a couple months back that the title had already become profitable after the western shipped over 5 million units and allegedly recouped six years of development costs.

The breakout hit has been a staple of the NPD and UK sales charts since launch, but it's still got a lot of sales to go before it has the cachet of Grand Theft Auto. And before we stop using that picture above.

JoystiqRed Dead Redemption has shipped 6.9 million units and counting originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftplaystationps3Red-Dead-RedemptionRockStarRockstar-GamessalesTake-TwoTake-Two-InteractivexboxThu, 02 Sep 2010 16:20:00 EST<![CDATA[LA Noire officially delayed to first half of 2011]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/la-noire-officially-delayed-to-first-half-of-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/la-noire-officially-delayed-to-first-half-of-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/la-noire-officially-delayed-to-first-half-of-2011/#comments We all saw it coming from down Wilshire and up the PCH: L.A. Noire has been officially delayed until "the first half of calendar 2011." The announcement was made in Take-Two Interactive's Q3 earnings release. Noire now joins Max Payne 3 as another major delayed game warming the 2011 bench, while Red Dead Redemption, Mafia 2 and Civilization 5 bring in the bucks.

L.A. Noire's delay became apparent after the title made it into some magazine pieces earlier this year with a pre-October release, and then failed to show up at any of the major video game conventions.

JoystiqLA Noire officially delayed to first half of 2011 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 16:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>delaysfirst-half-2011LA-Noiremicrosoftplaystationps3release-dateRockStarRockstar-GamesTake-TwoTake-Two-Interactiveteam-bondixboxThu, 02 Sep 2010 16:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Medal of Honor trailer previews Helicopters vs. Town cage fight]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/medal-of-honor-trailer-previews-helicopters-vs-town-cage-fight/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/medal-of-honor-trailer-previews-helicopters-vs-town-cage-fight/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/medal-of-honor-trailer-previews-helicopters-vs-town-cage-fight/#comments The latest trailer for EA's Medal of Honor reboot focuses on a segment from the single-player campaign -- one which pits a pair of heavily armored attack helicopters against a village of hostiles. Who will emerge victorious? The results may -- who are we kidding? The helicopters, of course.

Continue reading Medal of Honor trailer previews Helicopters vs. Town cage fight

JoystiqMedal of Honor trailer previews Helicopters vs. Town cage fight originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaMedal-of-Honor-2010microsoftpcplaystationps3xboxThu, 02 Sep 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rhode Island treasurer seeks to block $75M loan to 38 Studios]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/rhode-island-treasurer-seeks-to-block-75m-loan-to-38-studios/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/rhode-island-treasurer-seeks-to-block-75m-loan-to-38-studios/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/rhode-island-treasurer-seeks-to-block-75m-loan-to-38-studios/#comments Rhode Island gubernatorial candidate Frank Caprio, who is also the general treasurer, is working to block the state's $75 million loan to 38 Studios. The Boston Globe reports Caprio wants to stop the loan guarantee, which the studio would receive in exchange for moving from Massachusetts to Rhode Island, until a new governor is sworn in. Several other gubernatorial candidates have also expressed concern.

The multi-million dollar deal, which would leave Rhode Island taxpayers with the bill if 38 Studios was to go under, is key to the company creating a proposed 450 jobs in the state by the end of 2012. 38 Studios currently employs approximately 200 staff.

JoystiqRhode Island treasurer seeks to block $75M loan to 38 Studios originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 15:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studioscurt-schillingemploymentFrank-Capriojobsloanmicrosoftpcplaystationps3rhode-islandxboxThu, 02 Sep 2010 15:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Dragon Age 'Witch Hunt' DLC teaser offers a taste of our Warden's final quest]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/dragon-age-witch-hunt-dlc-teaser-offers-a-taste-of-our-warden/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/dragon-age-witch-hunt-dlc-teaser-offers-a-taste-of-our-warden/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/dragon-age-witch-hunt-dlc-teaser-offers-a-taste-of-our-warden/#comments Next week, we'll finally get to find out what became of Morrigan at the conclusion of Dragon Age: Origins. Well, technically that wasn't the conclusion of the story -- this is the end, but you get our point. Sort it all out for yourself past the break, courtesy of a teaser video from GameTrailers.

Continue reading Dragon Age 'Witch Hunt' DLC teaser offers a taste of our Warden's final quest

JoystiqDragon Age 'Witch Hunt' DLC teaser offers a taste of our Warden's final quest originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 15:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareDragon-AgeDragon-Age-Originseamicrosoftpcplaystationps3rpgwitch-huntwitch-hunt-dlcxboxThu, 02 Sep 2010 15:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Have a Bloody Good Time in Ubisoft's Source Engine FPS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/bloody-good-time-source-engine-fps/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/bloody-good-time-source-engine-fps/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/bloody-good-time-source-engine-fps/#commentsHot on the heels of the "movie poster" teasers, and ... several months after the first mention of the title, Ubisoft has given us the first real look at its downloadable game Bloody Good Time.

The multiplayer Source Engine-powered FPS will be released on Steam and XBLA. Up to eight players can compete in various environments within a movie set, fighting to get the starring role in a horror movie by murdering each other with weapons ranging from the expected (guns) to the bizarre ("an exploding remote-controlled rat").

Check out the first screens in the gallery below, featuring the game's cast of playable movie stereotypes. Bloody Good Time will be available this fall.

Gallery: Bloody Good Time (first screens)

Continue reading Have a Bloody Good Time in Ubisoft's Source Engine FPS

JoystiqHave a Bloody Good Time in Ubisoft's Source Engine FPS originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 14:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bloody-good-timefpsmicrosoftouterlightpcq3-2010release-datesource-engineSteamUbisoftXBLAxboxThu, 02 Sep 2010 14:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Outland developed by Housemarque, gameplay detailed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/outland-developed-by-housemarque-gameplay-detailed/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/outland-developed-by-housemarque-gameplay-detailed/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/outland-developed-by-housemarque-gameplay-detailed/#comments When Ubisoft first revealed Outland for PSN and XBLA earlier this week, the company didn't provide many details. Now, thanks to a preview on IGN, we've got a much clearer picture of the title. Outland is being developed by Housemarque, the studio behind the PSN shooter Super Stardust HD and the upcoming Dead Nation. According to IGN, the game is essentially "a cross between retro platformers like Prince of Persia or Out of This World and the color-switching of shoot 'em up Ikaruga."

If just the thought of those two play styles combined has you short of breath, we wouldn't blame you. Like Ikaruga, players can switch the protagonist between two forms, white and black, rendering him impervious to bullets of the same color. At the same time, players must navigate jungle settings on branching pathways looking for secrets and, of course, boss fights. Outland isn't scheduled for release until next year, but rest assured we'll be taking a closer look during PAX.

Gallery: Outland (first screens)

JoystiqOutland developed by Housemarque, gameplay detailed originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftoutlandplaystationps3PSNXBLAxboxThu, 02 Sep 2010 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tokyo is a battleground for animals in PS3's 'Tokyo Jungle']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/tokyo-jungle-ps3-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/tokyo-jungle-ps3-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/tokyo-jungle-ps3-revealed/#commentsThe latest game to be born from Sony's "PlayStation CAMP" initiative, which brought us both What Did I Do to Deserve This, My Lord!? and Patchwork Heroes, is simple to describe yet difficult to explain. Tokyo Jungle is about animals running free in the streets of Tokyo in the year 20XX, and doing their best to survive against the other creatures roaming the city.

Story Mode takes players through missions, each played as a different animal, including a race horse craving competition and a pet Pomeranian craving ... food. During these missions, you'll learn what happened to make the humans leave Earth. Survival Mode allows players to pick from over 80 different animals -- like elephants, chimps (in overalls!) and porcupines -- and survive as long as possible. Tokyo Jungle will arrive in the still-populated Japan this winter.
[Thanks, Copland]

JoystiqTokyo is a battleground for animals in PS3's 'Tokyo Jungle' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>japanplaystationplaystation-campps3psnq4-2010release-datetokyo-jungleThu, 02 Sep 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[More than a dozen Call of Duty: Black Ops killstreak bonuses revealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/call-of-duty-black-ops-killstreak-bonuses/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/call-of-duty-black-ops-killstreak-bonuses/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/call-of-duty-black-ops-killstreak-bonuses/#comments It's not too early to start putting together your strategy for Call of Duty: Black Ops multiplayer, you know. Like, for instance, let's say you're one of those lucky few who can manage to string a series of kills together without being interrupted by ... um, death. You should probably decide on which killstreak bonuses you'll use in battle -- a decision made easier by the list of bonuses acquired by XG247 during last night's Black Ops multiplayer preview event.

Keep in mind that the reported rewards and their killstreak requirements are from an in-progress build of the game and could be subject to change. Still, there's plenty to be excited about in this taste of what can be unlocked in Black Ops. We've posted the full list after the jump to avoid spoiling the fun for those who'd prefer to stay in the dark.

Continue reading More than a dozen Call of Duty: Black Ops killstreak bonuses revealed

JoystiqMore than a dozen Call of Duty: Black Ops killstreak bonuses revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionCall-of-Duty-Black-Opskillstreaksmicrosoftpcplaystationps3TreyarchxboxThu, 02 Sep 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Puzzle Quest 2 PSP only available via PSN, lacks multiplayer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/puzzle-quest-2-psp-only-available-via-psn-lacks-multiplayer/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/puzzle-quest-2-psp-only-available-via-psn-lacks-multiplayer/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/puzzle-quest-2-psp-only-available-via-psn-lacks-multiplayer/#comments Yesterday, we reported that Puzzle Quest 2 would make its way to PSP later this year, but we still had questions. Specifically, it was unclear if the game would see a UMD release and whether it'd be as full-featured as the console versions.

Steve Fawkner, CEO and president of Infinite Interactive, confirmed with Joystiq that the PSP game would only be available as a PSN download -- there will not be a UMD version. "Although we've received great support from D3 and Namco for all previous Puzzle Quest releases, PQ2 PSP is the first Puzzle Quest game that Infinite is doing by itself, without a publisher, so we're not really able to handle a full UMD release at this time," Fawkner told us. He went on to say that "it's important to get a PSP version out there for all the people who enjoyed the original PQ on PSP and wanted the second one."

Fawkner offered further insight into why Infinite would be publishing the PSP version itself (given that other versions were published by D3). "The truth is that most publishers really aren't keen to take a risk on PSP these days, which is kind of sad, because it's 'taking risks' that gets great games like Puzzle Quest published in the first place!"

As far as features go, Fawkner also confirmed that Puzzle Quest 2 for PSP would not include multiplayer. The multiplayer mode in the first Puzzle Quest was apparently not so popular among PSP players, so the team decided to focus on implementing Elite Mode (a tougher version of the single-player game that yields better rewards) into the PSP sequel, which it thought would be a better fit for the PSP demographic.

JoystiqPuzzle Quest 2 PSP only available via PSN, lacks multiplayer originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>infinite-interactiveplaystationpsnpsppuzzle-quest-2sonyThu, 02 Sep 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[First Mega Man Universe gameplay footage revealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/first-mega-man-universe-gameplay-footage-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/first-mega-man-universe-gameplay-footage-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/first-mega-man-universe-gameplay-footage-revealed/#comments The Mega Man Universe teaser trailer hinted at all sorts of cross-game franchise madness when it debuted earlier this year, and the first gameplay trailers do little more than stoke our curiosity all the more. Three teasers (courtesy of 1UP, GameSpot and IGN) each begin with an introduction from creator Keiji Inafune, and then launch into gameplay footage of this prettied up side-scrolling Mega Man title.

Head past the break for all three trailers.

Continue reading First Mega Man Universe gameplay footage revealed

JoystiqFirst Mega Man Universe gameplay footage revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomgameplaykeiji-inafuneMega-Man-Universemicrosoftplaystationps3street-fighterxboxThu, 02 Sep 2010 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Epic talks Project Sword, Unreal Engine on iPhone, and Apple TV as a game console]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/epic-talks-project-sword-unreal-engine-on-iphone-and-apple-tv/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/epic-talks-project-sword-unreal-engine-on-iphone-and-apple-tv/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/epic-talks-project-sword-unreal-engine-on-iphone-and-apple-tv/#commentsFollowing yesterday's dramatic announcement of Project Sword for iOS -- and the dramatic release of the free Epic Citadel tech demo -- Gamasutra spoke to Epic's Mike Capps about the games and the platform. Capps said that putting Unreal Engine 3 content on iPhone wasn't as hard as it seemed, thanks to the device's storage space that can come in handy for textures. "You've got 16 gigs of flash memory, which is way better, faster memory than what most people have generally on a home PC," he said. "So that stuff works really well. It's the big environments that get really complicated on the rendering tools for iPhone. But yeah, we've got some tricks for it."

Capps has his eyes on the future of the platform, both for Epic's own games and licensees. "We've got a few of our licensees using [the iOS tools for UE3] now, who've been testing it with us. So we'll roll it out to existing licensees and then start opening up. I think [Epic VP] Mark Rein has a big plan for how they're going to roll it out and make sure everybody's using it."

Capps also thinks there's potential to turn the new Apple TV into a game console of sorts. "... I can't wait to throw our engineers at it and see if we can get the latency we need to be able to play a game interactively over that wireless link to the Apple TV," he said. "I sure hope so."

Gallery: Epic Citadel ('Project Sword' tech demo)

JoystiqEpic talks Project Sword, Unreal Engine on iPhone, and Apple TV as a game console originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apple-tvappletvchair-entertainmentEpicEpic-CitadelEpic-Gamesiphonemike-cappsmobileProject-SwordThu, 02 Sep 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Sony surveying interest in PS3 Digital Comics service]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/rumor-sony-surveying-interest-in-ps3-digital-comics-service/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/rumor-sony-surveying-interest-in-ps3-digital-comics-service/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/rumor-sony-surveying-interest-in-ps3-digital-comics-service/#comments Have you ever wished you could turn the act of reading a comic book into a more social experience, but without all the reading over your shoulder and creepy breathing down the back your shirt? Sony might be making moves to bring your dream to fruition. PS3 enthusiast site Addicted to PlayStation reported receiving a survey inquiring whether they would be interested in seeing the Digital Comics service, which launched last November on the PSP, migrate to the PS3 (or other devices) sometime in the future.

If Sony really is planning on bringing comics to the big screen, we're torn on whether or not that would be a good thing. On one hand, part of the joy of comics is burying your face in the pages -- an experience you couldn't really replicate on a TV. On the other, we could finally use this as a chance to show our friends what incredibly expedient readers we are. "Oh, you're still on panel four? We're on panel nine. What's up?"

JoystiqRumor: Sony surveying interest in PS3 Digital Comics service originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comic-booksdigital-comicsplaystationps3pspsonysurveyThu, 02 Sep 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Two new Halo: Reach multiplayer videos are full of emotion]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/two-new-halo-reach-multiplayer-videos-are-full-of-emotion/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/two-new-halo-reach-multiplayer-videos-are-full-of-emotion/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/two-new-halo-reach-multiplayer-videos-are-full-of-emotion/#comments When developers release multiplayer videos from their upcoming games, they often feature god-like players who tear down fields of enemies without taking a single hit. The two GamesRadar demos for Halo: Reach posted below, however, feature all the intensity and stifled swears of a real multiplayer match.

Continue reading Two new Halo: Reach multiplayer videos are full of emotion

JoystiqTwo new Halo: Reach multiplayer videos are full of emotion originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bungieHalo-Reachmicrosoftmultiplayerspawning-on-your-bro-coop-stylexboxThu, 02 Sep 2010 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[RZA confirmed playable in DJ Hero 2, contributes pair of mixes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/rza-confirmed-playable-in-dj-hero-2-contributes-pair-of-mixes/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/rza-confirmed-playable-in-dj-hero-2-contributes-pair-of-mixes/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/rza-confirmed-playable-in-dj-hero-2-contributes-pair-of-mixes/#comments Activision today officially welcomed RZA to the cast of DJ Hero 2. The legendary Wu-Tang leader's inclusion as a playable character was first hinted at when RZA shared a few images of his mocap costume for an unnamed Activision game back in April. RZA, who often performs as alter-ego Bobby Digital, said of his digitization, "Now, I actually exist in a digital world, yo."

Additionally, RZA mixed two tracks for the DJ Hero 2 soundtrack. The first blends LL Cool J's "I Can't Live Without My Radio" with Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five's "The Message," and the second mixes Damian Marley's "Welcome To Jamrock" with Walter Murphy's "A Fifth of Beethoven." (RZA is also featured in the "Dollaz & Sense" Blackroc track licensed for the game; see the complete track listing here.)

Catch RZA wax poetic on his journey from paperboy to DJ Hero 2 in the video after the break. "Bong bong!"

Gallery: DJ Hero 2 (RZA)

Continue reading RZA confirmed playable in DJ Hero 2, contributes pair of mixes

JoystiqRZA confirmed playable in DJ Hero 2, contributes pair of mixes originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActivisionDJ-Hero-2FreeStyleGamesmicrosoftnintendoplayable-charactersplaystationps3RZAwiixboxThu, 02 Sep 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Call of Duty: Black Ops preview: put your money where your multiplayer is]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/call-of-duty-black-ops-preview-put-your-money-where-your-multi/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/call-of-duty-black-ops-preview-put-your-money-where-your-multi/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/call-of-duty-black-ops-preview-put-your-money-where-your-multi/#comments Not long after hearing about Call of Duty: Black Ops' multiplayer options, I grabbed a controller and tried to shoot fellow press as best I could in the new Wager Match modes. I got to play three of the four new modes at the Activision reveal event: "One in the Chamber," "Sticks and Stones" and "Sharp Shooter."

As you might have read, Call of Duty: Black Ops not only rewards XP in multiplayer, it also rewards CP ("CoD points"). CP is your main currency for unlocking gear and content. Everything in multiplayer costs CP to unlock -- killstreaks, new guns, even layers and symbols that can be used to create your own emblem and logo. So CP, while plentiful (especially when you're good), is important. Losing it in wager matches puts you further away from getting whatever items or unlocks you want.

Continue reading Call of Duty: Black Ops preview: put your money where your multiplayer is

JoystiqCall of Duty: Black Ops preview: put your money where your multiplayer is originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisioncall-of-dutyCall-of-Duty-Black-Opsmicrosoftmultiplayerpcplaystationps3treyarchwager-matchesxboxThu, 02 Sep 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo of Japan releasing Mario collection for Wii in October]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/nintendo-of-japan-releasing-mario-collection-for-wii-in-october/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/nintendo-of-japan-releasing-mario-collection-for-wii-in-october/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/nintendo-of-japan-releasing-mario-collection-for-wii-in-october/#commentsNintendo's Japanese release calendar includes a currently unannounced game called "Super Mario Collection Special Pack." This coincides with the rumored announcement of just such a thing from a Nintendo retailer conference in Japan. Andriasang translated a Game Jouhou report of leaked information from this event -- normally we'd put little stock in third- or fourth-hand information like this, but the subsequent inclusion of the game on Nintendo's official calendar lends a bit of credence to the claims.

According to this translated scuttlebutt, Super Mario Collection is a "revival" of Super Mario All-Stars for the SNES. We don't know if that means just a port, or additional included games, or further graphical updates -- though at 2,500 yen ($30) we don't expect extensive remaking. The "Special Pack" name reportedly refers to an included book showing material from 25 years of Mario game development, along with a soundtrack CD featuring music from the whole series.

Nintendo has scheduled the release of this game for October 21, which means that we should see official information very soon. It also means that No More Heroes 2, out in Japan the same day, officially has no chance of selling any copies.

JoystiqNintendo of Japan releasing Mario collection for Wii in October originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>japanmarionintendoq4-2010release-datesuper-mario-all-starssuper-mario-collection-special-packwiiThu, 02 Sep 2010 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[OnLive to test WiFi support, extends free year offer and sale on all games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/onlive-to-test-wifi-support-extends-free-year-offer-and-sale-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/onlive-to-test-wifi-support-extends-free-year-offer-and-sale-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/onlive-to-test-wifi-support-extends-free-year-offer-and-sale-on/#comments
We've had a good time with OnLive's "instant-play" game streaming service so far, but if there's one thing we'd change, it would be the fact that it only supports wired internet connections. Thankfully, there are enough similarly minded folks out there, prompting the service to single out WiFi support as a "top development priority" to be introduced in beta form before October.

OnLive also announced today that it is extending its Founding Members program yet again (it was due to end this coming weekend), offering a free year of service and a guaranteed $4.95 monthly fee thereafter to anyone who signs up before January 1, 2011.

For those who are already members, Labor Day weekend (that's September 4-6 -- only two days away!) will bring with it a sale on all titles in OnLive's catalog, to the tune of 50 percent off each and every one. A full list of games available can be found here. If you're keen to try out the service (or get a preview of its WiFi support) the company will be exhibiting at PAX Prime this weekend, September 3-5.

Continue reading OnLive to test WiFi support, extends free year offer and sale on all games

JoystiqOnLive to test WiFi support, extends free year offer and sale on all games originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>game-streamingonlivepcpromotionwifiThu, 02 Sep 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[iPhone Bit.Trip Beat has new levels, multiplayer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/iphone-bit-trip-beat-has-new-levels-multiplayer/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/iphone-bit-trip-beat-has-new-levels-multiplayer/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/iphone-bit-trip-beat-has-new-levels-multiplayer/#commentsThe iOS version of Bit.Trip Beat won't be a simple port of Gaijin Games' WiiWare debut. It has a couple of new features that may convince even the few people who completed the game to buy it again.

A representative for publisher Namco Networks informed Joystiq that Bit.Trip Beat will have a multiplayer mode, for up to four players on either iPhones or iPads. Even more intriguing, the mobile version of the chiptuney rhythm-Pong game will have new downloadable levels.

Namco Networks expects to release Bit.Trip Beat this fall. You can see what it looks like on iPad in our gallery. If you look at the images on an iPad, you'll really get the idea.

Gallery: Bit.Trip Beat (iPhone/iPad)


JoystiqiPhone Bit.Trip Beat has new levels, multiplayer originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BeatBit-Trip-BeatGaijin-Gamesiphonemobilenamco-bandainamco-networksThu, 02 Sep 2010 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tom Clancy's HAWX 2: The 8-bit Game has a missile lock on our heart]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/tom-clancys-hawx-2-the-8-bit-game-has-a-missile-lock-on-our-he/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/tom-clancys-hawx-2-the-8-bit-game-has-a-missile-lock-on-our-he/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/tom-clancys-hawx-2-the-8-bit-game-has-a-missile-lock-on-our-he/#comments It feels so weird to be telling you this, but Ubisoft has made an advergame based on Tom Clancy's HAWX 2 and ... it's kinda good! It's a pretty basic shmup with an 8-bit theme, though it's a bit more forgiving than most traditional games in the genre. (Your plane can actually take more than one hit before going down.)

Everything else is pretty much what you'd expect: a rad soundtrack; several weapon types; and an endless supply of enemies to blast into oblivion. Don't believe us? Hit up the link and check it out.

[Thanks, Daniel]

JoystiqTom Clancy's HAWX 2: The 8-bit Game has a missile lock on our heart originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hawx-2hawx-the-8-bit-gamemacpctom-clancyTom-clancys-hawxtom-clancys-hawx-2ubisoftThu, 02 Sep 2010 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Get some free Love this Labor Day weekend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/get-some-free-love-this-labor-day-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/get-some-free-love-this-labor-day-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/get-some-free-love-this-labor-day-weekend/#comments Whoa, whoa. Easy there, you dirty hippie. When we say "free love," we're not referring to the next meeting of the Rainbow Family of Living Light -- we're talking about a chance to play Eskil Steenberg's lovely little MMORPG, Love, at zero cost this Labor Day weekend. The offer will being around 1AM ET this Friday, at which point you'll be able to download the client on the game's official site. This free sample will be available until 7AM ET on Monday.

Now, that's what you have to do to get in on the free Love weekend. What you should do is watch this gameplay demonstration, so you'll know what the hell you're doing once you start making changes to the MMO's completely procedural world.

JoystiqGet some free Love this Labor Day weekend originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eskil-steenberglovepcquel-solaarThu, 02 Sep 2010 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Battle vs. Chess sets up September 28 release gambit]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/battle-vs-chess-sets-up-september-28-release-gambit/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/battle-vs-chess-sets-up-september-28-release-gambit/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/battle-vs-chess-sets-up-september-28-release-gambit/#comments Southpeak has announced that its chess title, Battle vs Chess (which is totally not Battle Chess) is headed to PC, Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 on September 28. Much like Interplay's classic game of nearly the same name, Battle vs Chess lets players compete in the ancient strategy game using animated pieces. Battle vs Chess also includes several different gameplay modes, including a campaign mode and puzzle mode which house "over 50 puzzles and scenarios." Another mode allows players to manually place pieces, which can only be seen by the opponent after the game begins.

The PC version will retail for $20, while the Xbox and PlayStation 3 versions will be available for $40. Meanwhile, the Wii, DS and PSP versions are slated to be released in the first quarter of 2011 with prices still under wraps for now.

Continue reading Battle vs. Chess sets up September 28 release gambit

JoystiqBattle vs. Chess sets up September 28 release gambit originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battle-vs-chesschessmicrosoftpcplaystationps3q3-2010release-dateTopWare-InteractivexboxThu, 02 Sep 2010 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mel B and Wii exercise accessories: 2 Become 1]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/mel-b-and-wii-exercise-accessories-2-become-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/mel-b-and-wii-exercise-accessories-2-become-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/mel-b-and-wii-exercise-accessories-2-become-1/#commentsHow does former Spice Girl Mel B keep in shape?

Continue reading Mel B and Wii exercise accessories: 2 Become 1

JoystiqMel B and Wii exercise accessories: 2 Become 1 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Balance-BoardBlazedumbbellseuropeexercisemel-bnintendowiiWiimoteThu, 02 Sep 2010 03:00:00 EST