Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://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[Q-Games' Dylan Cuthbert taking aim at more PixelJunk Shooter]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/q-games-dylan-cuthbert-taking-aim-at-more-pixeljunk-shooter/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/q-games-dylan-cuthbert-taking-aim-at-more-pixeljunk-shooter/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/q-games-dylan-cuthbert-taking-aim-at-more-pixeljunk-shooter/#comments There's no doubt about it -- Q-Games head Dylan Cuthbert is very much interested in making more content for the latest in the PixelJunk series of games, PixelJunk Shooter. When he spoke recently to G4TV, Cuthbert said, "for PixelJunk Shooter we still have a ton of ideas on the drawing board and the engine has lots of potential we want to use before moving onto our next idea." He also teased the possibility of a full-on sequel, front-loading his last statement with, "normally sequels are just a re-hashing of the ideas in the original."

Given the PixelJunk's all-over-the-place history with DLC and re-releases and Encore versions, we poked Cuthbert for clarification. When we asked which of the aforementioned options we might see for PixelJunk Shooter, Cuthbert told us: "It hasn't been decided yet, as it depends on how much content we end up making. Whatever we end up making, though, it will be even better than the first installment with loads of new stuff. (Obviously I know what some of that stuff is, but I can't say -- all I can say is that fans will be extremely pleased.)" So, there you have it, folks! We're gonna see ... umm ... something else from Shooter.

JoystiqQ-Games' Dylan Cuthbert taking aim at more PixelJunk Shooter originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>digital-distributiondlcdylan-cuthbertencorepixeljunkpixeljunk-shooterpsnq-gamessequelTue, 09 Feb 2010 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Assassin's Creed 2 ships 8 million, next game returns to Rome]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/assassins-creed-2-ships-8-million-next-game-returns-to-rome/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/assassins-creed-2-ships-8-million-next-game-returns-to-rome/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/assassins-creed-2-ships-8-million-next-game-returns-to-rome/#comments Speaking in an investor call, following the release of Ubisoft's fiscal third-quarter financial results, company CEO Yves Guillemot made it abundantly clear as to why another Assassin's Creed will unsheathe its stabby things before April 2011. According to Guillemot, Assassin's Creed 2, which launched in November 2009 on Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3, has shipped 8 million copies. The original Assassin's Creed had sold just as many by June 2009 -- roughly 18 months after its debut.

Although details regarding the new Assassin's Creed -- set to star Ezio and some online friends -- remain slim, Guillemot wasn't mum on mileu: "This time, [Ezio] will strike directly against the templar's order in Rome." Can this Rome be built in a year, just in time for Holiday 2010?

JoystiqAssassin's Creed 2 ships 8 million, next game returns to Rome originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 13:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>assassins-creedassassins-creed-2EzioUbisoftubisoft-montrealyves-guillemotTue, 09 Feb 2010 13:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Ubisoft reports fiscal Q3 sales of $679 million, hints at unannounced titles]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/ubisoft-reports-fiscal-q3-sales-of-679-million-hints-at-unanno/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/ubisoft-reports-fiscal-q3-sales-of-679-million-hints-at-unanno/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/ubisoft-reports-fiscal-q3-sales-of-679-million-hints-at-unanno/#comments Sure, $679 million may sound like a lot of money (it sure does to us!), but when you're a company CEO reporting that number to investors and it's 2.7 percent lower than last year's equivalent time period ($697 million), it's not quite as impressive. And that's just what Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot had to do earlier today when the company reported its fiscal Q3 (October 1 through December 31) sales for 2009. Given the publisher's French HQ, we're not privy to the period's revenue until later this year.

In discussing plans for the upcoming year, the company cited "at least seven franchise titles" being launched this year, calling out this morning's (finally) officially-announced Ghost Recon: Future Soldier among others, leaving one (presumably unannounced) title unmentioned. The publisher then indicates "at least two new brands (R.U.S.E. has already been announced)" will see the light of day in 2010 -- leaving one unannounced new brand. Getting murkier yet, it appears "at least 5 online games" will be heading to the information superhighway, though only three are mentioned (yep, you guessed it -- that means two have yet to be revealed). With GDC, PAX East, and E3 not too far off (already?!), there's still plenty of 2010 left for announcements.

JoystiqUbisoft reports fiscal Q3 sales of $679 million, hints at unannounced titles originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010financefinancialsfranchisefy-2009fy-2009-2010ghost-recon-future-soldierq3-2009rusesalesubisoftunannouncedyves-guillemotTue, 09 Feb 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ubisoft details first quarter 2010 releases; reveals Anno for iPhone]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/ubisoft-details-first-quarter-2010-releases-reveals-anno-for-ip/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/ubisoft-details-first-quarter-2010-releases-reveals-anno-for-ip/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/ubisoft-details-first-quarter-2010-releases-reveals-anno-for-ip/#comments Ubisoft's latest sales report details the company's proposed fourth quarter fiscal year releases -- the period beginning January 1, 2010 until March 31, 2010. It's pretty much everything we expected, with profits for Ubisoft relying on four key titles, three of which are on the PC platform: Assassin's Creed II: Director's Cut, Red Steel 2, The Settlers 7: Paths to a Kingdom and Silent Hunter 5: Battle for the Atlantic.

However, other notable titles will also release during this window, including Racquet Sports and the upcoming Assassin's Creed 2: Multiplayer on iPhone -- oh, and a bunch of new Imagine games, obviously. Outside of detailing these games, Ubisoft also announced that its popular Anno series is coming to the iPhone. Exact details on the game haven't been revealed, but it's a safe bet that city planning and real-time strategy will somehow be involved. Head past the break for the full list of releases.

Source - Ubisoft Q3 sales report [PDF link]

Continue reading Ubisoft details first quarter 2010 releases; reveals Anno for iPhone

JoystiqUbisoft details first quarter 2010 releases; reveals Anno for iPhone originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 12:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>assassins-creedassassins-creed-2assassins-creed-2-directors-cutassassins-creed-2-discoveryassassins-creed-2-multiplayerimagineracquet-sportsrelease-dateubisoftTue, 09 Feb 2010 12:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Ubisoft bringing Imagine franchise online with Imagine Town]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/ubisoft-bringing-imagine-franchise-online-with-imagine-town/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/ubisoft-bringing-imagine-franchise-online-with-imagine-town/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/ubisoft-bringing-imagine-franchise-online-with-imagine-town/#comments
Image above is from Imagine: Babyz for the DS. You probably figured that out already, though.
According to a recent Ubisoft press release, launched alongside its Q3 earnings report, either this year or the next will see the introduction of what may be the company's most profitable property to date -- Imagine Town, an online extension of the popular series of casual DS games. Little is known about the platform so far, though the presser stipulates that it will be "a virtual world" which will be seamlessly folded into "UbiWorld[TM], the portal dedicated to young girls." (In any other context, that would be an extremely creepy thing to say.)

We realize this news probably means very, very little to you, so allow us to frame it to you in a different way: Imagine Town is going to be the thing that lets Ubisoft afford to make Beyond Good & Evil 2. See, now you're interested.

JoystiqUbisoft bringing Imagine franchise online with Imagine Town originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualimagineimagine-townmmoonlineubisoftubiworldTue, 09 Feb 2010 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Dead Space 2 PC no longer in EA's plans]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/report-dead-space-2-pc-no-longer-in-eas-plans/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/report-dead-space-2-pc-no-longer-in-eas-plans/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/report-dead-space-2-pc-no-longer-in-eas-plans/#comments A great deal of news came out of EA's Q3 earnings report yesterday; enough to make us overlook this item: The early 2011 listing for Dead Space 2 didn't reference a PC version of he title, as was previously announced. Blue's News reportedly contacted Electronic Arts about the absence of the listing, and was told by a representative that "as of right now a PC sku is not in the plan."

That doesn't mean a PC version of the game is never coming out -- after all, the game's release window is still a year away. We've contacted EA to see exactly what "the plan" entails. Perhaps an elaborate casino heist?

JoystiqReport: Dead Space 2 PC no longer in EA's plans originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-spacedead-space-2eaelectronic-artsvisceral-gamesTue, 09 Feb 2010 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Yale gets $4 million grant for HIV avoidance game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/yale-gets-4-million-grant-for-hiv-avoidance-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/yale-gets-4-million-grant-for-hiv-avoidance-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/yale-gets-4-million-grant-for-hiv-avoidance-game/#comments A group of pupils at Yale University recently received a grant from the (deep breath) Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, which will help fund development of a video game which teaches youngsters how to avoid contracting HIV. The game, Retro-Warriors, will be designed with a multicultural focus, so that it can be used to teach young people across the globe how to identify and eschew risky behaviors.

It's not the first time someone's proposed such a project -- however, considering the aforementioned grant was for $3.9 million, it might be the most well-funded educational game of all time. We're fully expecting top-of-the-line graphics, a score by Hans Zimmer and some measure of involvement from Nolan North. For more information on what the game will actually be like, check out this CNS News article.

[Via GamePolitics]

JoystiqYale gets $4 million grant for HIV avoidance game originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aidseducationgranthivyaleyale-school-of-medicineTue, 09 Feb 2010 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Ferrari Racing Pack exclusive to Need for Speed: Shift on 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/ferrari-racing-pack-exclusive-to-need-for-speed-shift-on-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/ferrari-racing-pack-exclusive-to-need-for-speed-shift-on-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/ferrari-racing-pack-exclusive-to-need-for-speed-shift-on-360/#comments After a seven year absence, the Ferrari brand is returning to Need for Speed, albeit in an anti-climatic comeback for true Ferrari fans like ourselves. First, the facts: On February 16, those who own Need for Speed: Shift on 360 will be able to get 10 cars from the venerable manufacturer for 800 points ($10) -- we've got the full list for you after the break.

It's an okay list, but there are some glaring omissions. Where, for example, is the 2006 Ferrari X734 or the X744? Where's the 2008 Ferrari Sesquiderro? Where's the 1898 Ferrari X78 Horse or the 1962 Ferrari Old-Timey Ice Cream Truck? Should the fact that these are cars we made up in attempt at humorously masking our ignorance of all things automotive just eliminate them from consideration? Without so much as a second thought? PS3 owners, it may have seemed that you were being slighted, but you can count yourself lucky that you've been spared this travesty of justice.

Gallery: Need for Speed: Shift Ferrari Racing Pack

Continue reading Ferrari Racing Pack exclusive to Need for Speed: Shift on 360

JoystiqFerrari Racing Pack exclusive to Need for Speed: Shift on 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlceaferrarineed-for-speedneed-for-speed-shiftracingTue, 09 Feb 2010 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Producers: Final Fantasy XIII will 'resurrect' Japanese game industry]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/producers-final-fantasy-xiii-will-resurrect-japanese-game-ind/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/producers-final-fantasy-xiii-will-resurrect-japanese-game-ind/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/producers-final-fantasy-xiii-will-resurrect-japanese-game-ind/#comments
Final Fantasy XIII may not be out in North America and Europe yet, but the development team is in full "victory lap" mode in Japan. At least, that's how it seemed when noted industry figure Jem Alexander interviewed producer Yoshinori Kitase and director Motomu Toriyama for the European PlayStation Blog. Asked about the state of the Japanese game industry, the two (no individual attribution was given to the speakers) said that FFXIII was going to fix it.

"Some people have been saying that the Japanese game industry is dead, and all that... I dunno," the creative lead said. "I will say that Final Fantasy XIII is one really epic title for high definition consoles. With this game, we are going to resurrect the whole thing." And then they immediately moved from boastful to confusing: "As for Western games that have influenced us - FPSs mostly. The Call of Duty series, for example." Influenced their desire to sell a lot of copies, maybe?

The team also suggested elsewhere in the interview that God of War Collection-style remakes of previous Final Fantasy titles are unlikely. And, while they didn't outright deny DLC (which is looking more and more likely), they said that material or ideas originally left out won't be put back in as DLC.

JoystiqProducers: Final Fantasy XIII will 'resurrect' Japanese game industry originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-xiiimotomu-toriyamarpgsquare-enixyoshinori-kitaseTue, 09 Feb 2010 10:45:00 EST<![CDATA['Sam & Max: The Devil's Playhouse' outed by OFLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/sam-and-max-the-devils-playhouse-outed-by-oflc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/sam-and-max-the-devils-playhouse-outed-by-oflc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/sam-and-max-the-devils-playhouse-outed-by-oflc/#comments Like good burlesque, Telltale had been teasing a new season of Sam & Max ... meanwhile, like good porn, Australia's OFLC went ahead and just exposed the goods. Unless a dramatic change occurs, it appears the title of the next installment in the comedic adventure series is titled Sam & Max: The Devil's Playhouse - Episode 1: The Penal Zone.

The premature ratings announcement obviously doesn't contain much aside from a title -- there's no telling whether the game might eventually come to Mac or iPhone as recently rumored -- but at this point, we'll take whatever glimpse we can get.

[Thanks, 5abanja]

Joystiq'Sam & Max: The Devil's Playhouse' outed by OFLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventuresam-and-maxsam-and-max-the-devils-playhousesam-and-max-the-devils-playhouse-episode-1-the-penal-zonetelltaletelltale-gamesTue, 09 Feb 2010 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo Australia fines NSMB Wii uploader $1.5 million]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/nintendo-australia-fines-nsmb-wii-uploader-1-5-million/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/nintendo-australia-fines-nsmb-wii-uploader-1-5-million/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/nintendo-australia-fines-nsmb-wii-uploader-1-5-million/#commentsFinally, Nintendo has been able to make a little money from New Super Mario Bros. Wii, a sequel to one of its old franchises, released this November. Nintendo of Australia announced that as the result of a federal court settlement, one Australian will be required to pay $1.5 million ($1.3 million USD) to Nintendo for loss of revenue due. This person was allegedly the first to upload New Super Mario Bros. Wii to the internet, doing so on November 6, one week before the game was released (an act that facilitated creative works in addition to piracy).

Not only is this bad news for this one guy, it should also serve as a warning to other would-be pirates. "Upon the game being uploaded to the Internet, Nintendo was able to employ the use of sophisticated technological forensics to identify the individual responsible for illegally copying the file and making it available for further distribution," Nintendo said in a press release. "On 23 November, 2009, Nintendo obtained a Federal Court search order in respect of the individual's residential premises. This led to the seizure of property from those premises in order to gain further evidence against the individual."

If you upload Nintendo games, the company will come to your house and take your stuff. Chilling.

[Thanks, Foetoid]

JoystiqNintendo Australia fines NSMB Wii uploader $1.5 million originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australianew-super-mario-bros-wiinintendo-australiapiracyTue, 09 Feb 2010 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Total War games 66% off on Steam this week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/total-war-games-66-off-on-steam-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/total-war-games-66-off-on-steam-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/total-war-games-66-off-on-steam-this-week/#comments Strategic war game buffs, take note: All of the Total War titles on Steam are receiving a massive discount this week, to the tune of a whopping 66 percent off. In fact, you can pick up the Total War Mega Pack, which includes Medieval II: Total War, Rome: Total War -- including the Alexander and Kingdoms expansions -- and Empire: Total War for $20.39. Additionally, the Empire: Total War Downloadable Content Pack, containing all the Empire content released thus far, is available for 10 percent off at $16.19.

Incidentally -- but probably not coincidentally -- the latest game in the series, Napoleon: Total War, releases February 23.

JoystiqTotal War games 66% off on Steam this week originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dealsmedieval-2-total-warnapoleon-total-warrome-total-warsalessegasteamthe-creative-assemblytotal-warTue, 09 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon: Future Soldier to be present Holiday 2010]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/tom-clancys-ghost-recon-future-soldier-to-be-present-holiday-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/tom-clancys-ghost-recon-future-soldier-to-be-present-holiday-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/tom-clancys-ghost-recon-future-soldier-to-be-present-holiday-2/#comments Or, it'll be a Holiday 2010 present, depending on how heavily you drop those hints and how desirable you find Ghost Recon: Future Soldier's "cutting-edge technology, prototype high-tech weaponry, and state-of-the-art single-player and multiplayer modes." Developed by the GRAW veterans at Ubisoft Paris, Future Soldier promises to "go beyond the core Ghost Recon franchise and deliver a fresh gameplay experience, with an unparalleled level of quality that will excite long-time fans and newcomers alike." Yes, this is definitely from a press release.

A multiplayer beta is scheduled to start in Summer 2010, with invitations tied to another of Ubisoft's freshened franchises, Splinter Cell: Conviction (which is but a stone's throw away from release). The offer is currently extended only to the Xbox 360 version of Conviction -- and aside from Microsoft's system, no platforms have been explicitly mentioned in Future Soldier's announcement. He's from the future, so Facebook is a likely candidate.

Update: According to one of Ubisoft's Twitter accounts, the "same experience, same development team and same release date" will be coming to PlayStation 3. Ubisoft's Kimi Matsuzaki also noted that PC details would come "later."

JoystiqTom Clancy's Ghost Recon: Future Soldier to be present Holiday 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 06:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ghost-reconghost-recon-future-soldiertom-clancytom-clancys-ghost-recon-future-soldierubisoftubisoft-parisTue, 09 Feb 2010 06:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Ubisoft: EndWar sequel on hold]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/ubisoft-endwar-sequel-on-hold/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/ubisoft-endwar-sequel-on-hold/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/ubisoft-endwar-sequel-on-hold/#comments The news, as presented in EndWar voice-command style:

-- VG247, report, EndWar sequel, halted.

-- Ubisoft, elaborate, "on the backburner."

-- Joystiq, clarify, "on the backburner?"

*END TRANSMISSION*

JoystiqUbisoft: EndWar sequel on hold originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 06:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>end-warendwarmichael-de-platertom-clancys-endwarubisoftTue, 09 Feb 2010 06:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Fancy schmancy Tomb Raider art book]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/fancy-schmancy-tomb-raider-art-book/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/fancy-schmancy-tomb-raider-art-book/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/fancy-schmancy-tomb-raider-art-book/#comments The Art of Tomb Raider is looking like a must-have hard-edged coffee table book for any fan of the series and its curvy protagonist. Published by Dreams and Visions Press, the 568-page book actually comes in two volumes, with the first covering "every significant piece of Tomb Raider art" through Angel of Darkness, and the second featuring Legend to Underworld.

The set is priced at $110 and only 2,000 copies of the book are being printed. It appears that pre-orders are still being accepted and the books should ship in late February. Guess we can put this right next to our The Splendid Magic of Penny Arcade: The 11&frac12; Anniversary Edition book.

[Via Big Download]

JoystiqFancy schmancy Tomb Raider art book originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bookcoffee-table-bookthe-art-of-tomb-raidertomb-raiderTue, 09 Feb 2010 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Last Flight devs announce 'Gender Wars: The Battle,' an iPad strategy game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/last-flight-devs-announce-gender-wars-the-battle-an-ipad-str/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/last-flight-devs-announce-gender-wars-the-battle-an-ipad-str/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/last-flight-devs-announce-gender-wars-the-battle-an-ipad-str/#comments Remember back in late January when the world was all abuzz with iPad news and, more specifically, we named a handful of game genres we'd like to see on the upcoming tablet? If our spidey sense is functioning correctly, the recent announce of "Gender Wars: The Battle" -- a "turn-based tactic game" (read: RTS) -- seems to indicate Last Flight devs Bloober Team are avid Joystiq readers (obviously BT got its ideas from our post -- don't be so foolish!).

The game (as described by lead designer Peter Bielatowicz) is intended to be "easy to pick up and play" with what sounds like paired down tactical commands for "casual players." Producer Piotr Babieno explains the iPad development focus by saying, "We believe that tactic games will be one of [the] best and most successful games on [the] iPad platform." He also notes that the game will be released at a "very low price" to entice players to get hooked on the "series" and prepare them for future "Gender Wars" titles. And no, neither Beilatowicz or Babieno explain why it's called Gender Wars, but we'll hopefully find out when the game releases this March alongside Apple's new device.

JoystiqLast Flight devs announce 'Gender Wars: The Battle,' an iPad strategy game originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bloober-teamgender-warsgender-wars-the-battleipadlast-flightpeter-bielatowiczpiotr-babienortsturn-basedTue, 09 Feb 2010 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[2K Marin: Console wars 'drown out creative discourse']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/2k-marin-console-wars-drown-out-creative-discourse/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/2k-marin-console-wars-drown-out-creative-discourse/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/2k-marin-console-wars-drown-out-creative-discourse/#comments The initially Xbox 360-exclusive BioShock was one of the major salvos in the ongoing console wars, waged on message boards and comment sections everywhere (including right here on this very site). Speaking with Destructoid, BioShock 2 producer Jordan Thomas expressed hope that the multi-platform sequel -- which launches today -- doesn't play a similarly divisive role. According to Thomas, "platform partisanship" is just silly and it "seems to flood the critical channels and drown out other creative discourse."

Which sounds about right -- whenever a piece of news comes up that swings even close to the differences between the various consoles, the discussion usually degenerates into the same old arguments, and new and more interesting issues get drowned out like Andrew Ryan's old city. 2K Marin didn't ask in so many words, but we will: Would you kindly all just get along?

Joystiq2K Marin: Console wars 'drown out creative discourse' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-marinbioshockbioshock-2commentsconsoleconsole-warsfightinginsultsjordan-thomasmessage-boardsplatform-partisanshipsdfsequelsony-defense-forcexboxTue, 09 Feb 2010 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nippon Ichi earnings plummet in 2009]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/nippon-ichi-earnings-plummet-in-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/nippon-ichi-earnings-plummet-in-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/nippon-ichi-earnings-plummet-in-2009/#comments
[Prinny Blog]
Disgaea developer and publisher Nippon Ichi didn't have the best 2009, dood. Last week, the company announced its earnings for the first nine months of its fiscal year (ending December 31, 2009), recording operating profits 97.5% lower than those of 2008.

This week, reacting to the news of the precipitous drop, investors freaked out a bit and the price of NIS stock on the Japanese JASDAQ exchange dropped ¥7,000 ($78.42), almost 20%. JASDAQ froze the price, or it might have dropped further. Siliconera posted a list of all recent and upcoming NIS games. Have a look -- we're sure NIS America would really, really appreciate a purchase of Sakura Wars: So Long, My Love or Holy Invasion of Privacy, Badman 2 in the next few months.

JoystiqNippon Ichi earnings plummet in 2009 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>disgaeaearningsjapannippon-ichinippon-ichi-softwarerecessionTue, 09 Feb 2010 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mega64 talks Mass Effect 2 sex censorship]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/mega64-talks-mass-effect-2-sex-censorship/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/mega64-talks-mass-effect-2-sex-censorship/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/mega64-talks-mass-effect-2-sex-censorship/#comments We're pretty sure that the new Mass Effect 2-centric video from Mega64 that you'll find after the break is pretty funny. The crew seems to be grilling everyday citizens on censorship, specifically relating to all the xenofornication going down aboard the Normandy.

We say "pretty sure" and "seems" because ... well, we can't watch this sort of thing with the sound on because it makes us too uncomfortable. There, we said it out loud. That means we also have no idea if the language in the video is safe for work, since we can't hear it. Let's just play it safe and assume it's not, OK?

Continue reading Mega64 talks Mass Effect 2 sex censorship

JoystiqMega64 talks Mass Effect 2 sex censorship originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowaremass-effect-2mega64Tue, 09 Feb 2010 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Discounted: Brand new Tony Hawk Ride at ... Goodwill?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/discounted-brand-new-tony-hawk-ride-at-goodwill/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/discounted-brand-new-tony-hawk-ride-at-goodwill/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/discounted-brand-new-tony-hawk-ride-at-goodwill/#commentsIt may seem at this point that we're kicking an already downed and plenty insulted victim here, but we couldn't help but note the shockingly low price of a Tony Hawk: Ride bundle -- complete with board, unopened -- discovered by Gamertell at an Arlington Heights, Il. Goodwill store. Two Wii versions of the game were on sale for just $74.99 (down from $119.99 MSRP) -- a Goodwill employee said the game's presence could be explained by donations from local retailers, listing Kohls, Sears, Borders, and Target as potential donators. Alright, alright, we'll admit it -- the price drop isn't that steep, but a near $50 difference on a barely four-month-old game sounds pretty decent to us.

Presumably, one of the aforementioned retailers was more interested in the shelf space (and the tax write-off) than waiting for the game's fairly cool sales to heat up. Either way, if you're looking to get your ... ahem ... feet on the game, maybe your local Goodwill could offer a better deal than the other brick-and-mortars, eh?

JoystiqDiscounted: Brand new Tony Hawk Ride at ... Goodwill? originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arlington-heightsgoodwillgoodwill-storesillinoissalestony-hawktony-hawk-rideTue, 09 Feb 2010 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[We sure hope the new Sonic 4 isn't a remake of this Sonic 4]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/we-sure-hope-the-new-sonic-4-isnt-a-remake-of-this-sonic-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/we-sure-hope-the-new-sonic-4-isnt-a-remake-of-this-sonic-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/we-sure-hope-the-new-sonic-4-isnt-a-remake-of-this-sonic-4/#comments Here's a fun little piece of 16-bit history for you -- did you know that when Sega made its big announcement last week, a game called Sonic 4 had actually been floating around for 14 years? Sure, it's not an official Sonic game, mind you -- it was merely a modded version of the classic Sunsoft SNES platformer Speedy Gonzales: Los Gatos Bandidos. 1UP recently shared the game's illicit history -- a group of Peruvian hackers known as Twin Eagle Group got their hands on the game in 1996, removed all instances of the hasty Mexican mouse, and replaced them with Sega's spiny mascot.

Check out a gameplay clip of the unsanctioned Sonic 4 after the jump. Yeah, it doesn't look great -- but to be fair, Sonic doesn't whip out a gun at any point, nor does he engage in light bestiality, so we guess it has its charms.

[Via Kotaku]

Continue reading We sure hope the new Sonic 4 isn't a remake of this Sonic 4

JoystiqWe sure hope the new Sonic 4 isn't a remake of this Sonic 4 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hackmodnintendosegasnessonicsonic-4sonic-the-hedgehogTue, 09 Feb 2010 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Naughty Dog's Amy Hennig tells the LA Times how she made it]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/naughty-dogs-amy-hennig-tells-the-la-times-how-she-made-it/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/naughty-dogs-amy-hennig-tells-the-la-times-how-she-made-it/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/naughty-dogs-amy-hennig-tells-the-la-times-how-she-made-it/#comments
[Image Source: LA Times]
The Los Angeles Times' "How I Made It" feature has shined a spotlight on none other than Naughty Dog creative director Amy Hennig, illuminating the secret of how a 45-year-old woman can conquer the gaming industry and nab Joystiq's Game of the Year with Uncharted 2: Among Thieves. She started out as a film student back in 1989 and says she had a revelation while working freelance for Atari that gaming "was a more interesting and pioneering medium" than even the movies.

She worked her way up the ladder and took chances when they came along. When the lead designer on the wacky Michael Jordan: Chaos in the Windy City left the project, she stepped up and took the job. And having talent and intelligence can't hurt either -- she says that she puts her whole education into gaming, from English lit to film editing, and while she downplays her place as a woman in gaming ("This is a young enough and progressive enough industry" to avoid most problems with sexism, she says), she does admit that she, erm, moderated the male perspective on breast size with some of her developers. Because somebody's got to, right? Excellent profile of one of gaming's more unlikely stars.

[Thanks, MikeIriye!]

JoystiqNaughty Dog's Amy Hennig tells the LA Times how she made it originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amy-hennigataridevelopmentfilmnaughty-doguncharted-2uncharted-2-among-thievesMon, 08 Feb 2010 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Former EyeToy exec warns of the difficulties facing Natal, 'Arc']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/former-eyetoy-exec-warns-of-the-difficulties-facing-natal-arc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/former-eyetoy-exec-warns-of-the-difficulties-facing-natal-arc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/former-eyetoy-exec-warns-of-the-difficulties-facing-natal-arc/#comments In a recent interview with GamesIndustry.biz, Jamie MacDonald, former Vice President of Sony Worldwide Studios (the company responsible for EyeToy), gave out a few pointers to Sony and Microsoft regarding their respective motion controllers. MacDonald warned that gamers are expecting more from the 360 and PS3's motion gaming than they do from the Wii, due to both consoles' beefier hardware. However, he also warned about implementing "traditional long-form gameplay," lengthy sessions of which would leave players "completely knackered."

MacDonald's wisest words came when speaking about pricing the two pieces of hardware. He suggested they follow Sony's strategy with EyeToy, where the peripheral and a piece of software came bundled for the price of a normal game, which kept consumers from "paying a premium for the hardware." That's a sweet thought, but it's a little presumptive -- after all, we've yet to hear a price for the two devices. (Hell, we haven't even heard a name for one of them.)

JoystiqFormer EyeToy exec warns of the difficulties facing Natal, 'Arc' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eyetoyjamie-macdonaldmicrosoftnatalplaystation-arcplaystation-arc-motion-controllerplaystation-motion-controllerproject-natalsonyMon, 08 Feb 2010 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Plants vs. Zombies shambling to iPhones February 15]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/plants-vs-zombies-shambling-to-iphones-february-15/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/plants-vs-zombies-shambling-to-iphones-february-15/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/plants-vs-zombies-shambling-to-iphones-february-15/#comments PopCap today announced that the iPhone port of Plants vs. Zombies is heading to Apple's handheld on February 15, seemingly aiming for the exact day that it had originally approximated for a delayed release. What's more, the publisher has also released the first trailer for the game (seen above), showing off the port's pared down touch-based controls and getting us even more (trepidatiously) pumped for the impending release. Sure, some other games are releasing this month or whatever, but do those games grab us by the dopamine receptor and refuse to let go? Yeah, didn't think so.

JoystiqPlants vs. Zombies shambling to iPhones February 15 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gameplayhandheldplants-vs-zombiespopcappopcap-gamesrelease-datetower-defensetrailervideoMon, 08 Feb 2010 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Pachter: Call of Duty to decline $250 million in 2010]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/pachter-call-of-duty-to-decline-250-million-in-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/pachter-call-of-duty-to-decline-250-million-in-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/pachter-call-of-duty-to-decline-250-million-in-2010/#comments With Activision's holiday fiscal report expected to release this week, Wedbush Morgan analyst Michael Pachter is predicting that the Call of Duty profit machine may not repeat its fantastic 2009 performance this year. As reported by IndustryGamers, Pachter believes the Call of Duty franchise will generate "sharply lower revenue," in 2010, to the tune of a $250 million decline. Not to worry, though, as he notes that Activision is likely to more than make up for that amount thanks to Blizzard's impending releases (hello, StarCraft II). Aside from that, of course, it's important to remember that we're talking about a $250 million decrease on almost a billion dollars, so it's not like Pachter expects Call of Duty to wind up in the toilet.

It's worth noting that the previous Call of Duty title, World at War, initially outsold Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare, though Modern Warfare remained on top after the dust settled. Unsurprisingly to anyone paying attention, Modern Warfare 2 turned around to outsell the original Modern Warfare. Still, all three remain among the best selling games of all time, so maybe it's okay if the next one is only phenomenally successful.

JoystiqPachter: Call of Duty to decline $250 million in 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisioncall-of-dutycall-of-duty-world-at-warinfinity-wardmichael-pachtermodern-warfare-2treyarchMon, 08 Feb 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix applies for 'Deus Ex: Human Revolution' trademark]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/square-enix-applies-for-deus-ex-human-revolution-trademark/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/square-enix-applies-for-deus-ex-human-revolution-trademark/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/square-enix-applies-for-deus-ex-human-revolution-trademark/#comments Square Enix has applied to trademark Deus Ex: Human Revolution in Europe (#008862153). A quick scan of other international trademark bureaus hasn't revealed anything similar. As Siliconera notes, it could very well be the official name for the upcoming Deus Ex 3, but that may simply be a conspiratorial assumption based on logic.

Information on Deus Ex 3 is still quite scarce, with the little tidbits we do know highlighted by Square Enix handling CG cinematcs and that whole PC-exclusivity kerfuffle. Hopefully, this trademark signals that the Deus Ex prequel is ready to pull back the fiber-optic curtain.

[Via Siliconera]

JoystiqSquare Enix applies for 'Deus Ex: Human Revolution' trademark originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deus-ex-3eidossquare-enixtrademarkMon, 08 Feb 2010 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Peter Moore excited about PlayStation 'Arc,' unsure about OnLive]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/peter-moore-excited-about-playstation-arc-unsure-about-onlive/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/peter-moore-excited-about-playstation-arc-unsure-about-onlive/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/peter-moore-excited-about-playstation-arc-unsure-about-onlive/#comments In a time-honored Peter Moore tradition, the EA Sports head recently opened up for an interview on a variety of subjects in the game industry. This time, the oft fake-tattooed gentleman exposited on the future of OnLive and his company's investment in the upcoming PlayStation Motion Controller (supposedly named "Arc"). "I don't know about OnLive," Moore told CVG, responding to the question of whether or not the cloud gaming service will become the "iTunes of gaming." He does, however, see opportunity in burgeoning distribution and pricing methods. "If a consumer's got five bucks to spend on some cool DLC; if they love Tiger Woods but want to be able to play online and invest $10 or $15 over a period of time ... those are the things we need to look at."

As far as his interest in the "Arc" goes, he says that he's seen the hardware in action and thinks it'll be a "great complement to what's out there." He directly points out its distinction from the Wii's motion controller and reconfirms EA Sports' development of games with Sony motion in mind -- he even names tennis and golf as prime contenders as each sport lends to an "authentic sports motion" (at least with what he's seen on the Wii). Frankly, we're just about as excited as could be to finally show off our lacking sports skills as games based on sports creep closer to reality.

JoystiqPeter Moore excited about PlayStation 'Arc,' unsure about OnLive originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcdevelopmentdlceaea-sportsonlivepeter-mooreplaystation-motion-controlsony-motion-controllertiger-woodsMon, 08 Feb 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gran Turismo PSP helps series top 55 million units sold]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/gran-turismo-psp-helps-series-top-55-million-units-sold/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/gran-turismo-psp-helps-series-top-55-million-units-sold/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/gran-turismo-psp-helps-series-top-55-million-units-sold/#comments We hate to be all Captain Obvious about it, but there's good reason the Gran Turismo series is still doing laps around the virtual track. People are voting with their cash, as the latest figures from Polyphony Digital show that Gran Turismo PSP has managed to sell 1.8 million copies. And through its success, it's hit one hell of a milestone for the Gran Turismo series at large. Here's the rundown of the franchise's success:
  • The original Gran Turismo has sold 10,850,000 units
  • Gran Turismo 2 has sold 9,370,000 units
  • Gran Turismo 3 A-spec on the PS2 managed to sell 14,890,000 units
  • Gran Turismo Concept Series sold 1,560,000 units
  • Gran Turismo 4 "Prologue" invaded 1,350,000 homes
  • Gran Turismo 4 has been a heck of an earner, selling 10,980,000 units
  • Gran Turismo 5 "Prologue" brought the series to the PS3 by selling 4,650,000 units
  • Gran Turismo PSP recently recorded sales of 1,800,000 units
That brings the total to 55,450,000 units. It seems impressive enough -- over five million units sold in the last year-and-a-half ain't too shabby -- though there are some caveats.

For one, the Gran Turismo series has been around for over 10 years -- much longer than any of its competitors. Secondly, it's been the definitive diehard simulation racing experience on Sony's consoles, effectively making it the only show in town. Finally, the series has over seven Guinness World Records. Basically, when you have the world record for "Largest Instruction Guide for a Racing Game," it's, like, a guarantee people are going to buy it.

[Via GI.biz]

JoystiqGran Turismo PSP helps series top 55 million units sold originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gran-turismogran-turismo-5gran-turismo-5-prologuegran-turismo-psppolyphony-digitalsalesMon, 08 Feb 2010 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Global PS3 market share increasing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/report-global-ps3-market-share-increasing/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/report-global-ps3-market-share-increasing/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/report-global-ps3-market-share-increasing/#commentsYou may have assumed this from the climbing PS3 sales Sony reported last week, but a report from Research and Markets provides further confirmation that the system is increasing in popularity around the world.

"The PS3 is dominant in Japan and Korea," the report notes, "and as of June 2008, has begun to outsell the Xbox 360 in Europe. It is also steadily increasing its market share in all other regions across the globe, including in the North American market." The Xbox 360 is still ahead of the PS3 in North America. It's worth noting that the increase in sales in Europe predates the price drop and introduction of the PS3 Slim.

Research and Markets also provided a bit more information about the distribution of console sales. Though North America remains the largest market for consoles, "The high population density and rapid uptake of technology in countries such as Japan and Korea, and to a lesser extent in Singapore and Hong Kong, see a disproportionately high level of console sales compared to the rest of the world," the report reads." Console sales are also fairly high in Western Europe and are growing considerably in the emerging markets of Eastern Europe, Latin America, and other areas in Asia."

JoystiqReport: Global PS3 market share increasing originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analystmarket-sharemarketshareps3-slimresearch-and-marketsMon, 08 Feb 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Max & the Magic Marker scribbles down March US WiiWare release]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/max-and-the-magic-marker-scribbles-down-march-us-wiiware-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/max-and-the-magic-marker-scribbles-down-march-us-wiiware-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/max-and-the-magic-marker-scribbles-down-march-us-wiiware-release/#comments Danish developer Press Play would like to draw everyone's attention to Max & the Magic Marker's US release on WiiWare this March. The game released late last month on European WiiWare for 1,000 Wii Points. M&TMM is currently available in the US, directly from Press Play and digital distributors, for PC and Mac at a suggested price of $20.

With a WiiWare demo for the game uncertain, we suggest you try it over on the official website. We're also drawing a direct link to some gameplay videos here.

Gallery: Max and the Magic Marker

JoystiqMax & the Magic Marker scribbles down March US WiiWare release originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>max-and-the-magic-markerpress-playwiiwareMon, 08 Feb 2010 18:40:00 EST<![CDATA[EA: Rock Band deal with Viacom only through March 2010]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/ea-rock-band-deal-with-viacom-only-through-fiscal-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/ea-rock-band-deal-with-viacom-only-through-fiscal-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/ea-rock-band-deal-with-viacom-only-through-fiscal-2010/#commentsIf you're wondering where Rock Band 3 is, a year and a half after Rock Band 2 and five months after the launch of The Beatles: Rock Band, it seems EA isn't sure it's going to get to publish it. During an investor conference call, EA execs revealed that the publisher's deal with Viacom (the company that owns MTV, Harmonix, Rock Band and maybe you as well) is only active through fiscal year 2010 (which ends March 31).

Presumably the deal somehow includes the yet-to-be-released Green Day: Rock Band -- but EA's unlikely to announce any more Rock Band games until it knows it has the license locked down for another year.

JoystiqEA: Rock Band deal with Viacom only through March 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaharmonixmtvrock-bandrock-band-2rock-band-3viacomMon, 08 Feb 2010 18:20:00 EST<![CDATA[New Mass Effect 2 DLC armor, shotgun available tomorrow]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/new-mass-effect-2-dlc-armor-shotgun-available-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/new-mass-effect-2-dlc-armor-shotgun-available-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/new-mass-effect-2-dlc-armor-shotgun-available-tomorrow/#comments A post on the Bioware forums has revealed that two new bits of DLC will be coming to Mass Effect 2's Cerberus Network tomorrow, February 9. Players will be able to download both a new set of armor and a new shotgun for free via the game's DLC pipe. The Cerberus Armor ups heavy weapon ammo capacity, shields, and health by 10 percent each, and the M-22a Eviscerator Shotgun is "a longer-range shotgun with armor-piercing loads" that "also violates several intergalactic weapons treaties."

But those "treaties" were never ratified by the Citadel Council anyway, so who cares? The new DLC should be released by 2pm ET, so you can start ganking with the new space shotty then.

[Thanks, Michael]

JoystiqNew Mass Effect 2 DLC armor, shotgun available tomorrow originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armorbiowarecerberuscerberus-armorcerberus-networkdlceviscerator-shotgunmass-effect-2release-dateshotgunxblmMon, 08 Feb 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EA: Something 'far-reaching' coming for Mass Effect in early 2011]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/ea-something-far-reaching-coming-for-mass-effect-in-early-201/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/ea-something-far-reaching-coming-for-mass-effect-in-early-201/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/ea-something-far-reaching-coming-for-mass-effect-in-early-201/#comments Well now, this is a little perplexing. Speaking on today's EA earnings call, a spokesperson for the company said that something "far-reaching" for Mass Effect would arrive in Q4 of EA's fiscal 2010, which translates to sometime between January 1 and March 31 of 2011.

The perplexing part is that no mention was made of the multiplatform Dragon Age release referenced in the pre-call release for the same period. So, did someone misspeak and confuse BioWare releases? It's possible. We've put a line in to EA to sort this out.

Update: We heard back from EA spokesperson Jeff Brown, who told us, "Both Dragon Age and Mass Effect are referenced in the FY11 SKU plan. That's all I can tell you for now."

JoystiqEA: Something 'far-reaching' coming for Mass Effect in early 2011 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 17:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeamass-effectmass-effect-2mass-effect-3q1-2011Mon, 08 Feb 2010 17:50:00 EST<![CDATA[EA loses $82 million in fiscal Q3 2010, revenue down 25%]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/ea-loses-82-million-in-q3-2010-revenue-down-25-year-over-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/ea-loses-82-million-in-q3-2010-revenue-down-25-year-over-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/ea-loses-82-million-in-q3-2010-revenue-down-25-year-over-year/#comments Right off the bat, you should know this: for EA, losing $82 million in the third quarter of a fiscal year is an enormous improvement. Compared to the same period last year ("Q3" for EA is October 1 - December 31), the company lost 559 million fewer actual physical dollars. Yes, really. Now that we've told you that, we should also note that the publisher pulled in 24.85 percent less revenue year over year (down to $1.243 billion in Q3 2010 from $1.654 billion in Q3 2009). That said, Playfish had "two of the top ten Facebook games" for the quarter! Good thing EA spent $300 million on those folks, eh?

Okay, okay, real talk: the company also points out that it was the "#1 packaged goods publisher in North America and Europe" for its entire fiscal year. CEO John Riccitiello even notes that Mass Effect 2 is "the first blockbuster of 2010." And hey, with 2 million units already shipped, we tend to agree.

JoystiqEA loses $82 million in fiscal Q3 2010, revenue down 25% originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eafinancefinancial-reportfinancialsfy-2010john-riccitielloprofitsq3-fy-2010revenuesalesMon, 08 Feb 2010 17:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Space 2 and EA's Epic shooter slated for early 2011]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/dead-space-2-and-ea-epic-shooter-slated-for-early-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/dead-space-2-and-ea-epic-shooter-slated-for-early-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/dead-space-2-and-ea-epic-shooter-slated-for-early-2011/#comments EA's tentative release schedule for Q4 of its fiscal 2011 (or, as us normal people call it, January-March 2011) contains more than a few intriguing entries. You already heard about the new Dragon Age game -- but listed just below that is an untitled "Shooter from Epic TBA." Of course, this can only mean one thing: Gears of Madden 2012 is within spitting distance of becoming a sweet reality! Wait -- what's that? Oh, right, the listing more likely points to new speculative details about that possible "Bulletstorm" project from Epic's People Can Fly studio. How ... unofficial.

Also listed under the early 2011 releases is Dead Space 2, which EA had previously promised would drop before next March. The excitement level of the remaining games drops off like the deep end of a pool: The list includes (deep breath) a new Need For Speed on consoles and PC (in addition to an apparent Holiday 2010 release), a downloadable "action" game, a new fighting game designated as a "sports" title, a new Hasbro game (more Family Game Night?), and new installments in the Sims and Spore franchises.

JoystiqDead Space 2 and EA's Epic shooter slated for early 2011 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bulletstormdead-spacedead-space-2eaea-sportselectronic-artsfamily-game-nightneed-for-speedpeople-can-flyq1-2011release-datethe-simsMon, 08 Feb 2010 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Crysis 2, Sims 3 on consoles, NBA Jam due Holiday 2010]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/crysis-2-sims-3-on-consoles-nba-jam-due-holiday-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/crysis-2-sims-3-on-consoles-nba-jam-due-holiday-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/crysis-2-sims-3-on-consoles-nba-jam-due-holiday-2010/#comments Thanks to today's EA earnings report (EArnings?) we're starting to get an idea of how the company's holiday season is going to shape up. This is all subject to change, of course, but as of right now it would appear you can look forward to Crysis 2, NBA Jam and EA Sports MMA sometime between October and December of 2010.

Filling out the holiday quarter are some yet-to-be-formally-announced titles like The Sims 3 on consoles, a new Need For Speed game (perhaps the Criterion-developed one?) and a new Harry Potter game (likely tied to this November's Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part I). Want to come up with your own wild speculation? Peruse the list here.

JoystiqCrysis 2, Sims 3 on consoles, NBA Jam due Holiday 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 17:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>criterioncrysis-2eaea-sports-mmaharry-potternba-jamneed-for-speedq4-2010release-datesims-3Mon, 08 Feb 2010 17:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Medal of Honor, APB dated for Summer 2010]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/medal-of-honor-apb-dated-for-summer-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/medal-of-honor-apb-dated-for-summer-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/medal-of-honor-apb-dated-for-summer-2010/#commentsAccording to EA's list of upcoming titles in its latest earnings report, a couple of high-profile games are going to be released this summer between July 1 and September 30: Realtime Worlds' crime-themed MMO APB (which is likely to be the "major MMO" to whose spring release John Riccitiello referred to previously), and ... a "TBA" Medal of Honor title -- possibly the one with the beard. EA did say that game would be out before March 2011! The summer release is listed for consoles, PC and handhelds.

Also due out in the quarter: the expected spate of annual sports franchises (Madden, FIFA, FIFA Online, NHL), a Monopoly game for consoles and handhelds, and a new MySims title -- we're guessing MySims Sky Heroes.

JoystiqMedal of Honor, APB dated for Summer 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eafifa-11fifa-onlinemadden-11medal-of-honormonopolymysimsncaa-football-11nhl-11q3-2010release-dateMon, 08 Feb 2010 17:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Two EA Sports Active games due Holiday 2010]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/two-ea-sports-active-games-due-holiday-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/two-ea-sports-active-games-due-holiday-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/two-ea-sports-active-games-due-holiday-2010/#comments Just before today's sure to be thrilling investor's call, EA released a fact sheet to the folks gearing up for the hour-plus finance-a-thon -- a fact sheet that revealed two "TBA" EA Sports Active games set for release on consoles in the third quarter of the company's fiscal 2011 (October 1 through December 31, 2010, in human being time).

We've yet to hear anything on a new EA Sports Active title for the Wii, though we did hear some rumblings at E3 last year that the franchise would be headed to Sony and Microsoft's respective motion-based outings. And considering the unannounced titles are set for release in line with the announced release of Microsoft's Project Natal, and perhaps just after the PlayStation Motion Controller, there's a good chance that these pending EA Sports Active releases are for those platforms -- maybe one for Natal and one PlayStation; or one for Natal and Playstation and one for Wii.

JoystiqTwo EA Sports Active games due Holiday 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arceaea-sportsea-sports-activeplaystation-arcplaystation-motion-controllerproject-natalq4-2010release-dateMon, 08 Feb 2010 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[New Dragon Age in early 2011 on consoles, handhelds & PC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/new-dragon-age-in-early-2011-on-consoles-handhelds-and-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/new-dragon-age-in-early-2011-on-consoles-handhelds-and-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/new-dragon-age-in-early-2011-on-consoles-handhelds-and-pc/#commentsIf you're pacing out your Dragon Age playing to ensure that you have a steady drip of elfin lovemaking and epic dragon fighting, here's a bit of new info to consider for your tactics: EA is planning to launch a new Dragon Age title in Q4 of its fiscal 2011, which, in real-world time, falls between January 1 and March 31, 2011. The sequel is far from a surprise, given that EA has also announced that global sell-in (read: shipments) of Dragon Age: Origins has reached 3.2 million units.

Intriguingly, EA currently lists "Dragon Age Title TBA" (that's what it's called at the moment) for consoles, PC and handhelds -- which could mean either handheld game devices (think: DS and/or PSP), cell phones or both. Whatever platforms it appears on, expect the game to be super hot. Assuming, of course, this is the real sequel to Dragon Age: Origins and not a spin-off.

JoystiqNew Dragon Age in early 2011 on consoles, handhelds & PC originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowaredragon-agedragon-age-originsdragon-age-title-tbaeaq1-2011release-daterpgtbaMon, 08 Feb 2010 16:55:00 EST<![CDATA[NetEase temporarily suspending WoW account creation in China]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/netease-temporarily-suspending-wow-account-creation-in-china/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/netease-temporarily-suspending-wow-account-creation-in-china/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/netease-temporarily-suspending-wow-account-creation-in-china/#comments Though the legal and political struggle between China's General Administration of Press and Publications (GAPP) and Ministry of Culture over whether World of Warcraft should be allowed in the country rages on, the game's operator, NetEase, is taking matters into its own hands. According to Reuters, the operator is suspending new user registrations for one week, starting today. During this time, NetEase execs will be waiting on pins and needles -- they recently re-submitted an application to operate WoW and The Burning Crusade directly to the GAPP.

In other words, you can probably expect another installment in the seemingly endless Chinese World of Warcraft saga within the next seven days. We can't wait!

JoystiqNetEase temporarily suspending WoW account creation in China originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chinagappministry-of-culturemmommorpgneteaseworld-of-warcraftMon, 08 Feb 2010 16:40:00 EST