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 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Take-Two loses legal fight over BioShock.com]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/25/take-two-loses-legal-fight-over-bioshock-com/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/25/take-two-loses-legal-fight-over-bioshock-com/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/25/take-two-loses-legal-fight-over-bioshock-com/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Take-Two: Would you kindly give us Bioshock.com?

Name Administration: ... Umm, no. We're a domain squatter in the Cayman Islands, not giving companies domains is kind of what we do.

Take-Two: Oh, WIPO? Would you kindly tell them to give us back Bioshock.com?

World Intellectual Property Organisation: Well, we talked about it, and ... no. For starters, they registered it before you got any trademarks on the "BioShock" name. Besides, that phrase could apply to other stuff besides your game.

Take-Two: Alright then, would you kindl--

Name Administration: Look, just stop it, OK? You've been saying "would you kindly" every 20 seconds during this hearing and frankly, it's starting to creep us out. And why is it whenever you say it you have to ... oh, what would you call it, WIPO?

WIPO: Glowering. You're glowering.

Name Administration: Yes! You're glowering, and it's weird. And while we're at it, what's up with the golf club?

JoystiqTake-Two loses legal fight over BioShock.com originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Aug 2010 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-bostonBioshockdomain-registrationIrrational-Gameslegalmicrosoftname-administrationpcplaystationps3take-twowipoxboxWed, 25 Aug 2010 11:28:00 EST<![CDATA[First (and only) look at Irrational's canceled zombie game 'Division 9']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/13/irrationals-canceled-zombie-game-division-9/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/13/irrationals-canceled-zombie-game-division-9/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/13/irrationals-canceled-zombie-game-division-9/#comments It was rough yesterday when we heard that Irrational Games had a really incredible sounding zombie game called "Division 9" buried under its floorboards, never to be released. Ask our loved ones, we cried, moped, cried some more, and then consumed tubs of Chubby Hubby. We lost count -- it was that bad.

And now that we've seen screens and video of the project, via Game Informer; now that we know the game has a dark, desperate, realistic feel that's even better than we imagined? Well, it's frankly more than we can bear. If you need us, we'll be in the frozen desserts aisle ... or maybe the whiskey aisle. Jury's still out.

JoystiqFirst (and only) look at Irrational's canceled zombie game 'Division 9' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 Jan 2010 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-bostoncanceledcancelleddivision-9irrational-gamesken-levinezombiesWed, 13 Jan 2010 13:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Irrational Games has new website, podcast ... and an abandoned zombie game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/12/irrational-games-has-new-website-podcast-and-an-abandoned-z/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/12/irrational-games-has-new-website-podcast-and-an-abandoned-z/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/12/irrational-games-has-new-website-podcast-and-an-abandoned-z/#comments It's a great time to be a fan of Irrational Games. Not only has the developer recently gotten its nomenclature back into shape, it's got a gorgeous new website full of secrets and stories behind several projects (for example, Chief Ken Levine promises to talk about Irrational's new project there ... eventually). Heck, there are even achievements!

Perhaps most exciting is a podcast called Irrational Behavior -- helmed by former 1UP Yours and GFW Radio heartthrob Shawn Elliott -- a sort of Irrational Games audio magazine presented with a Life Well Wasted/This American Life flavor. The first episode centers on abandoned ideas, including a game that blends SWAT, X-Com and zombies. And that we want right now, please.

JoystiqIrrational Games has new website, podcast ... and an abandoned zombie game originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Jan 2010 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-bostonirrational-behaviorirrational-gamesken-levineshawn-elliottTue, 12 Jan 2010 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[2K Boston is bringing back Irrational Games name, legacy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/08/2k-boston-is-bringing-back-irrational-games-name-legacy/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/08/2k-boston-is-bringing-back-irrational-games-name-legacy/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/08/2k-boston-is-bringing-back-irrational-games-name-legacy/#comments
[Image credit: Game Informer]
Halo: Reach isn't the only story that you'll find in next month's Game Informer -- the magazine's blog has also revealed that the developer known for the past two years as 2K Boston will be returning to its roots as Irrational Games. The change isn't unexpected, as we've seen hints of the old identity coming back to the spotlight for a while. But apparently the company is going full force with the "renewed commitment" to the legacy: it'll be kicking off a new website soon (in about three days and 16 hours as of this writing, according to the countdown now running on IrrationalGames.com) that will contain lots of community features and information about Irrational's past -- including fan favorites like System Shock 2 and Freedom Force, in addition to 2K Boston's BioShock and future titles.

Meanwhile, the company has a new logo -- spiffy! -- and the next Game Informer will have more information about the studios' history and why it made the choice to turn back the clock on its identity. We look forward to reading all about it.

Joystiq2K Boston is bringing back Irrational Games name, legacy originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Jan 2010 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-bostonbioshockchangefreedom-forcegame-informergamesidentityirrationalirrational-gamesnamesystem-shock-2take-twotitleswebsiteFri, 08 Jan 2010 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[BioShock 2's 'Capture the Sister' mode isn't kidding around]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/28/bioshock-2s-capture-the-sister-mode-isnt-kidding-around/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/28/bioshock-2s-capture-the-sister-mode-isnt-kidding-around/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/28/bioshock-2s-capture-the-sister-mode-isnt-kidding-around/#comments The citizens of BioShock 2's undersea dystopia, Rapture, love them some ADAM -- especially when it's been freshly harvested by a Little Sister. It's with this in mind that Digital Extremes tweaked the tried-and-true Capture the Flag multiplayer contest to place one team in charge of abducting one of these adolescent creepsters while the other must lay their lives on the line to protect her.

As the above first look at the mode explains, the "attacking" side's goal is to return the girl to a Little Sister vent. The defenders -- well they defend, of course ... but one of them gets to be a Big Daddy. We'll have our hands-on impressions of BioShock 2's single and multiplayer modes tomorrow, so look for more details then.

JoystiqBioShock 2's 'Capture the Sister' mode isn't kidding around originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Oct 2009 20:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-australia2k-boston2k-czech2k-games2k-marinbioshockbioshock-2little-sisterMicrosoftmultiplayertake-twovideoXbox-360Wed, 28 Oct 2009 20:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Ken Levine lists favorite games again, changes mind on a few]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/28/ken-levine-lists-favorite-games-again-changes-mind-on-a-few/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/28/ken-levine-lists-favorite-games-again-changes-mind-on-a-few/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/28/ken-levine-lists-favorite-games-again-changes-mind-on-a-few/#comments
Ken Levine plays video games. Shocking, we know! Speaking with IndustryGamers, Levine, who is currently working on a super-secret project, listed his ten favorite games. Occupying the top five spots in descending order are: World of Warcraft, Civilization, Beyond Good & Evil, Ultima Underworld and Company of Heroes.

Back in 2007, Levine produced a similar list for MSNBC. His top five have apparently shifted in the last two years, though, as Heroes of Might and Magic 2 and Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past have fallen even beyond the BioShock developer's top ten. How hast these games forsaken thee, Ken? What hast they done for thou to banish them from thy heart likest so?

JoystiqKen Levine lists favorite games again, changes mind on a few originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Oct 2009 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-bostonbeyond-good-and-evilcivilizationcompany-of-heroesfav-5irrational-bostonirrational-gamesken-levineultima-underworldworld-or-warcraftwowWed, 28 Oct 2009 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[2K Boston's next big thing is a shooter]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/10/2k-bostons-next-big-thing-is-a-shooter/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/10/2k-bostons-next-big-thing-is-a-shooter/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/10/2k-bostons-next-big-thing-is-a-shooter/#comments "Yeah, that and 90 percent of the other games released every year," you retort.

Okay, we hear you, and trust us, we get it. It's not exactly earth-shattering that a 2K Boston job listing indicates that the follow-up to the studio's big-hit shooter BioShock would be another shooter. But do you remember the part where 2K Boston made BioShock? Yeah, you better believe we're going to tell you everything we learn about it until we have it in our trembling, grateful hands. (Speaking of which, it's also hiring a multiplayer level designer, for your info.)

Besides, we weren't positive it was going to be another shooter. It could have been another Freedom Force game, for all we knew. Actually, 2K Boston ... could you go ahead and make that too, while you're at it?

[Via Gamespot]

Joystiq2K Boston's next big thing is a shooter originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Aug 2009 17:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-bostonbioshockfreedom-forceIrrational-Bostonken-levineMon, 10 Aug 2009 17:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Coo over Sander Cohen's BioShock statuette]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/07/cooing-over-sander-cohen-bioshock-statuette/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/07/cooing-over-sander-cohen-bioshock-statuette/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/07/cooing-over-sander-cohen-bioshock-statuette/#comments
GamePro has a photo set of the statuette based on BioShock's homicidal artist, Sander Cohen, given to 2K Boston employees by the studio's Creative Director Ken Levine. The sculpture was created by "Irrational" artist Robb Waters, produced by Patch Together and infused with mental instability by Fontaine Futuristics.

2K Boston is currently working on a secret project while 2K Marin (and a half-dozen other studios) try to get BioShock 2 out the airlock.

JoystiqCoo over Sander Cohen's BioShock statuette originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 07 Aug 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-bostonbioshockirrational-bostonken-levinesander-cohenstatuestatuetteFri, 07 Aug 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BioShock surfaces on Games on Demand, costs $30]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/06/bioshock-surfaces-on-games-on-demand-costs-30/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/06/bioshock-surfaces-on-games-on-demand-costs-30/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/06/bioshock-surfaces-on-games-on-demand-costs-30/#comments
A quick note for those lucky enough to be part of the Xbox Live Update preview program: BioShock is now available from Games on Demand. While you might be keen to download it just to try out the Games on Demand feature, you should know that it will cost you $29.99. Considering you can pick up a new copy of the game from GameStop, eBay or Newegg for only $20 (or less), it's not exactly worth it -- unless the convenience of not leaving the house is worth $10 to you, of course. It's also worth noting that the XBLM price is only $10 shy of the BioShock / Oblivion combo pack.

Still, if you just have to try Games on Demand, don't have BioShock already and have 4.66 gigs of spare room on the ol' hard drive, go for it. Just remember, a man chooses!

JoystiqBioShock surfaces on Games on Demand, costs $30 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Aug 2009 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-boston2k-gamesbioshockgames-on-demandirrationalxblmxbox-live-updateThu, 06 Aug 2009 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Verbinski doubtful about BioShock flick, wants to make games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/01/verbinski-doubtful-about-bioshock-flick-wants-to-make-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/01/verbinski-doubtful-about-bioshock-flick-wants-to-make-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/01/verbinski-doubtful-about-bioshock-flick-wants-to-make-games/#comments We've been a little doubtful that the BioShock movie would actually get made after it was first announced, but director Gore Verbinski is starting to come around to our way of thinking. Verbinski told the LA Times that he thought the movie could still get made, but likely in a foreign country that offers tax breaks for movie makers.

Verbinski also says he wants to get into the games business, which would be more troubling if the very first thing he'd said about it hadn't been, "It's a mistake for Hollywood to impose themselves on the gaming space. Not only is it arrogant, but it hasn't really worked." Music to our ears.

JoystiqVerbinski doubtful about BioShock flick, wants to make games originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 01 Jun 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-bostonbioshockBioShock-moviegore-verbinskimoviesMon, 01 Jun 2009 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Take-Two and Tor releasing BioShock novel]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/27/take-two-and-tor-releasing-bioshock-novel/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/27/take-two-and-tor-releasing-bioshock-novel/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/27/take-two-and-tor-releasing-bioshock-novel/#comments
We're still not sure why anyone would want to retrofit video games with last-gen tech and turn them into books, but sci-fi/fantasy publisher Tor has apparently had a lot of success with the practice lately, with franchises like Halo and Dragon Age. The next game to get the dead tree-ment? BioShock, which will be the subject of a 400-page hard- and softcover release this fall.

Currently, the book's author is listed as Ken Levine, but we're pretty sure that's a placeholder, because we don't live in a magical alternate dimension where we can make things happen just by wishing for them. We'll let you know when we find out more.

JoystiqTake-Two and Tor releasing BioShock novel originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 May 2009 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-bostonbioshockbooksken-levinetorWed, 27 May 2009 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[MIT BiG: Levine talks life before BioShock]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/08/mit-big-levine-talks-life-before-bioshock/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/08/mit-big-levine-talks-life-before-bioshock/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/08/mit-big-levine-talks-life-before-bioshock/#comments
We're here at the MIT Business in Gaming conference this afternoon to watch Ken Levine - who holds the title trifecta of "co-founder, "president" and "Creative Director" at 2K Boston (née Irrational) - take the hotseat in a Q&A format (that, for some reason, is being billed as a "keynote"). No bother - given an opportunity to hear the BioShock developer discuss the current state of the industry (not to mention regaling us backstage with amusing yarns about Strauss Zelnick's protein-centric diet), we took our spot in the front row, laptops at the ready.

After an introduction by one of the show's sponsors (get off the stage, bub!) the Q&A was handed over to MIT graduate student Dennis Fu, who peppered Levine with a series of questions inspired by the day's panel topics: digital distribution; in-game advertising; MMO business models; and serious games. Fu stepped right into the deep end, asking Levine "What can you tell us about BioShock 2?" As he's said before, he's keeping himself intentionally in the dark so that he can play it "as a fan." "We're sort of keeping ourselves at a distance," he explained.

Continue reading MIT BiG: Levine talks life before BioShock

JoystiqMIT BiG: Levine talks life before BioShock originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 May 2009 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-bostonirrational-bostonirrational-gamesken-levinelevinemitmit-bigmit-big-09Fri, 08 May 2009 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ken Levine: Next project will cost 'a fair amount of money']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/08/ken-levine-next-project-will-cost-a-fair-amount-of-money/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/08/ken-levine-next-project-will-cost-a-fair-amount-of-money/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/08/ken-levine-next-project-will-cost-a-fair-amount-of-money/#comments During his Q&A at the MIT Business in Gaming conference, Ken Levine revealed the cost of some of his projects and hinted at the cost (and scale!) of 2K Boston's latest, still secret, project.

"Freedom Force was $2 million; System Shock 2 was $600K, it was nothing. BioShock, I think it's been published, was $15 million," Levine said. When we asked how much, on that scale, his new project would cost, Levine teased, "It's more than System Shock 2."

He elaborated, "It's a fair amount of money. Our goal is to build experiences." Referring to the craft of building experiences, Levine noted that BioShock "didn't have the best shooting compared to Call of Duty" and "it didn't have the most revolutionary AI." What it did have was an "experience [gamers] couldn't get anywhere else." It was something "that people can look at it and say, 'I can't have this experience anywhere else.'"

Here's the thing: "Generally those experiences cost a fair amount of money to make," Levine says. Of course, he can't say how much - "because I would probably get fired before I walked out the door" - but he assures us "It won't be the cheapest product ever made." So we've got a ballpark here: Somewhere between $600K and infinity.

JoystiqKen Levine: Next project will cost 'a fair amount of money' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 May 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-BostonBioShockbioshock-infiniteFreedom-ForceIrrational-GamesKen-LevineMIT-BIGMIT-BIG-09System-Shock-2Fri, 08 May 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ken Levine keynoting first MIT 'Business in Gaming' conference]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/13/ken-levine-keynoting-first-mit-business-in-gaming-conference/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/13/ken-levine-keynoting-first-mit-business-in-gaming-conference/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/13/ken-levine-keynoting-first-mit-business-in-gaming-conference/#comments
Focusing on riveting hot-button issues like "digital distribution, marketing, and in-game advertising," the MIT Sloan School of Management is kicking off its first ever "Business in Gaming " Conference (BiG) with BioShock magnate Ken Levine as inaugural keynote speaker.

We'll be there, Big Daddy statues and permanent markers in tow, and when we're not ogling KennyL we'll likely check out the panel featuring ex-Boston Red Soxer Curt Schilling of 38 Studios speaking about MMO business models. Hey, maybe he'll talk about that game his company's been making for three years! Code-named Copernicus? No? You don't remember that one? Yeah, neither do we.

JoystiqKen Levine keynoting first MIT 'Business in Gaming' conference originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 Apr 2009 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-boston38-studiosbusinessbusiness-in-gaming-conferencecopernicuscurt-schillingdigital-distributionin-game-advertisingirrationalgamesken-levinemarketingmitMon, 13 Apr 2009 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Take-Two files trademark for 'Irrational Boston']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/01/take-two-files-trademark-for-irrational-boston/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/01/take-two-files-trademark-for-irrational-boston/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/01/take-two-files-trademark-for-irrational-boston/#comments
The clues have been building up and it appears that 2K Boston may be changing its name to Irrational Boston, the original name of the development studio (albeit now with a location tacked on to the name). The information comes by way of a trademark registration (via superannuation) filed by parent company and publisher Take-Two Interactive, not to mention shirts we spotted 2K Boston employees wearing at GDC last week.

Little is known about how the name change will affect the development studio but we are prone to wild speculation. So let's begin! Is it a sister studio inside 2K Boston? Is it to spin off 2K development studios under the "Irrational" name? And what does this mean for the other half of the original Irrational Games that's now named "2K Australia?" The official word from 2K Boston as of this morning was, "No comment," but we should expect to hear something "very soon." We'll update this post as news comes in.

[Via superannuation]

JoystiqTake-Two files trademark for 'Irrational Boston' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Apr 2009 10:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-australia2k-bostongdc-2009irrational-gamestake-two-interactivetrademarkWed, 01 Apr 2009 10:50:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC09: An Irrational name change?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/26/gdc09-an-irrational-name-change/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/26/gdc09-an-irrational-name-change/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/26/gdc09-an-irrational-name-change/#comments
It appears that 2K Boston may be going back to its original name, Irrational Games, soonish. This evening, at a social event held by the developer's PR company, several 2K Boston employees were wearing the above shirts, promoting that jobs are currently available at the developer. When we confronted several 2K Boston folks about why the two URLs were on the shirt, they were ... well, let's just say they were a little cagey. If it happens, it means Irrational switched its name and back again in under two years.

JoystiqGDC09: An Irrational name change? originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Mar 2009 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-bostonirrational-gamesken-levinetake-twoThu, 26 Mar 2009 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[2K Boston is hiring (Hey, Ken. We have excellent compuper skills!)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/20/2k-boston-is-hiring-hey-ken-we-have-excellent-compuper-skills/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/20/2k-boston-is-hiring-hey-ken-we-have-excellent-compuper-skills/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/20/2k-boston-is-hiring-hey-ken-we-have-excellent-compuper-skills/#comments
2K Boston is looking to staff its next project and is blaring that information quite publicly -- a bold move in this economy. The company approached us with images of a postcard it'll pass out next week at GDC on a recruitment mission. It sounds like the developer is casting a wide net for talent and will sift through the candidates to find what the studio is looking for -- we do not envy that human resources person. Almost nothing is known about 2K Boston's next project, other than that, in Ken Levine's words, it's "very, very, different."

According to the flip side of the card (found after the break), the company is currently looking for ... well, it appears it's looking for everyone under the sun. The company has "dozens of openings in programming, design, art, audio and production." Remember to check for typos (like we should have with our headline -- guess that rules us out, blargh) before submitting your resume to the email address found on the card.

Now, let the speculation begin on why the image -- seemingly of a Big Daddy helmet -- was used for this promotion. Best of luck to the applicants!

Continue reading 2K Boston is hiring (Hey, Ken. We have excellent compuper skills!)

Joystiq2K Boston is hiring (Hey, Ken. We have excellent compuper skills!) originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Mar 2009 20:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-bostonbusinesshiringirrational-gamesjobsken-levinetake-twoFri, 20 Mar 2009 20:40:00 EST<![CDATA[We really want this new BioShock art book]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/18/we-really-want-this-new-bioshock-art-book/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/18/we-really-want-this-new-bioshock-art-book/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/18/we-really-want-this-new-bioshock-art-book/#comments
We know how it is. You're standing at your local department store/Cracker Barrel gift shop/hotel mini-bar and you just can't find the perfect gift for that special video game blog in your life. Hey, we've all been there. This year, we're going to make it easy on you: You should get us ... err, rather, your favorite video game blog, whichever that may be, this new BioShock art book.

Breaking the Mold: Developer's Edition is 174 pages, $24.99, is now available for pre-order and will make us love, prize and cherish you above all other readers from now until the end times. Did we mention there's free shipping?

JoystiqWe really want this new BioShock art book originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 Mar 2009 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k2k-bostonbioshockbreaking-the-moldken-levinetake-twoWed, 18 Mar 2009 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[NYCC 09: Todd Howard, Ken Levine panel]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/06/nycc-09-todd-howard-ken-levine-panel/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/06/nycc-09-todd-howard-ken-levine-panel/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/06/nycc-09-todd-howard-ken-levine-panel/#comments
So, what happens when you stick game developers Ken Levine (BioShock) and Todd Howard (Fallout 3) in a room with two outspoken games journalists for an hour? You get a fascinating discussion on how Eastern Europe has become a new haven for PC games, how Bollywood perfected The Lost and, of course, a lesson about Horse Armor. That, and Howard reveals Bethesda is working on an iPhone game. MTV Multiplayer's Stephen Totilo and Newsweek's N'Gai Croal grilled both Levine and Howard on everything and anything gaming, and we were there to absorb it all.

When asked about what he thought the most notable game of last year was, Levine answered he was intrigued with Russian dev Katauri Interactive's King's Bounty: The Legend. He pointed out that Eastern Europe has been thriving with PC games, noting that games like King's Bounty are good reason to keep an eye on the region.

Todd Howard was asked by a fan where he draws the line on DLC, using Oblivion's Horse Armor as an example of seemingly unnecessary content, or content which should have been integrated initially. Howard responded saying that people shouldn't complain about the inclusion of DLC, as devs can't always include certain content within their given schedules. They're really extras for fans, he said; however, he ascribed merit to complaining about how much that content costs.

One last interesting discussion of the afternoon included a glimpse into how companies are using Achievements/Trophies in more ways than just giving you - the gamer - an ego. Game companies are using these accolade systems to check up on completion rates on their games (determined by the number of gamers who've received endgame Achievements). Levine revealed that 50 percent of BioShock players finished the game, while Howard noted a 30 percent completion rate for Fallout 3. Both those titles represented a notch up from the average 20 percent.

JoystiqNYCC 09: Todd Howard, Ken Levine panel originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Feb 2009 20:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-BostonBethesdaBethesda-Softworksken-levinengai-croalnyccnycc-2009stephen-totilotodd-howardFri, 06 Feb 2009 20:45:00 EST<![CDATA[2K Boston job listings hint at multiplayer FPS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/02/2k-boston-job-listings-hint-at-multiplayer-title/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/02/2k-boston-job-listings-hint-at-multiplayer-title/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/02/2k-boston-job-listings-hint-at-multiplayer-title/#comments
Every day is opposite day at BioShock dev 2K Boston. Amidst gray skies and industry layoffs, multiple job postings indicate that the studio is looking to bring a handful of new talent on board, with some or all to lend a hand developing what the company describes as an "action-packed AAA multiplayer title" for the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and PC.

Nothing else is known of the mystery project other than it will be driven by Unreal Engine 3 -- but these days, what isn't? With multiplayer sorely absent from the original BioShock, and development reins on its sequel in the hands of newly opened 2K Marin, we're now left wondering just what exactly Big Daddy Ken Levine and his followers are up to.

[Via V4VG]

Joystiq2K Boston job listings hint at multiplayer FPS originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Feb 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-boston2k-games2k-marinbioshockjobsmultiplayermysteryunannouncedMon, 02 Feb 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq hands-on: BioShock PS3 'Worlds of Hurt' DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/10/joystiq-hands-on-bioshock-ps3-worlds-of-hurt-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/10/joystiq-hands-on-bioshock-ps3-worlds-of-hurt-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/10/joystiq-hands-on-bioshock-ps3-worlds-of-hurt-dlc/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


click to enlarge
Just didn't find BioShock PS3's Survivor difficulty, well, masochistic enough? Then you'll want to give the game's DLC - coming to PSN on Nov. 20 - a spin, if only for the utterly insane "Worlds of Hurt" challenge room. We had a chance to brave it ourselves and found that we needed every ounce of courage and knowledge of Rapture's workings to make it through even a bit.

The scenario has you battling through several rooms of increasing difficulty with the ultimate goal of freeing a Little Sister. It starts off with a single Splicer but soon tests every strategy-forming inch of your grey matter.

Gallery: BioShock Challenge Rooms (PS3, 11-10-2008)

Continue reading Joystiq hands-on: BioShock PS3 'Worlds of Hurt' DLC

JoystiqJoystiq hands-on: BioShock PS3 'Worlds of Hurt' DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Nov 2008 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k2k-boston2k-gamesbioshockbioshock-ps3dlchands-onjoystiqfeaturesPS3Mon, 10 Nov 2008 19:59:00 EST<![CDATA[BioShock PS3 DLC priced at $10, detailed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/03/bioshock-ps3-dlc-priced-at-10-detailed/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/03/bioshock-ps3-dlc-priced-at-10-detailed/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/03/bioshock-ps3-dlc-priced-at-10-detailed/#commentsFiled under:

bioshock
2K Games today confirmed the November 20th release date of the PS3-exclusive BioShock "Challenge Rooms." The add-on content will be sold through PlayStation Store for $9.99 (in North America) and includes three, self-contained scenarios:
  • A Shocking Turn of Events: A Little Sister is trapped atop a Ferris wheel. Players must create electricity to power the Ferris wheel and bring the Little Sister to safety.
  • The I in Team: Using limited resources, and an even more limited arsenal, players must negotiate traps and find a way to defeat a Big Daddy.
  • Worlds of Hurt: Players must battle through eight rooms of Big Daddies, Splicers and "the worst that Rapture has to offer." Accumulate Adam, build an arsenal of Plasmids, Tonics and Weaponry, and fight through to rescue the Little Sister.
While sparse, and seemingly devoid of any explicit narrative tie-ins, the content should provide some insight into 2K Marin's design prowess (plus, it's got Trophies). After wrapping up the PS3 port of the original and this modest expansion, the studio can now be found tinkering with the BioShock sequel. [Update: Wouldn't you know it, a 2K spokesperson just let us know that "the rooms were primarily created by 2K Boston." Looks like we'll be waiting for that sequel for any insight after all.]

Gallery: BioShock Challenge Rooms (PS3)

JoystiqBioShock PS3 DLC priced at $10, detailed originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 03 Nov 2008 11:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-australia2k-boston2k-games2k-marinbioshockbioshock-ps3breakingnewsdigital-extremesdlcPS3trophiesMon, 03 Nov 2008 11:59:00 EST<![CDATA[BioShock PS3 demo surfacing Oct. 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/12/bioshock-ps3-demo-surfacing-oct-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/12/bioshock-ps3-demo-surfacing-oct-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/12/bioshock-ps3-demo-surfacing-oct-2/#commentsFiled under: ,


As the most stubborn person alive, you've already dismissed BioShock's numerous awards and rapturous reception, chalking it up to a juvenile and easily swayed media. "They'll stick a ten on any old thing these days," you say, rolling your eyes at all the games-as-art debates arising in the first-person shooter's wake. The word-of-mouth may be exceedingly positive, but the word coming from your mouth is, "No."

"No, I'll play the demo first," you declare, "and then I'll make my decision." You flip your official and slightly unsavory Big Daddy calendar to the October page. "Ah, October 2nd. That's when the PlayStation 3 demo is due to arrive on the PlayStation Network!" You circle the date in one swift, confident stroke ... but suddenly feel a tinge of unease trickle down your spine.

"Wait a minute ... how did I know that? It's like ... someone else is putting these thoughts directly into my mind, dictating my very character from afar. Oh crap, was that a hyperlink?"

[Thanks, Chris]

JoystiqBioShock PS3 demo surfacing Oct. 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Sep 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-Australia2K-Boston2K-GamesBioShockDemoPS3PSNFri, 12 Sep 2008 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[2K Games, would you kindly release BioShock PS3 on October 21?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/19/2k-games-would-you-kindly-release-bioshock-ps3-on-october-21/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/19/2k-games-would-you-kindly-release-bioshock-ps3-on-october-21/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/19/2k-games-would-you-kindly-release-bioshock-ps3-on-october-21/#commentsFiled under: ,


Well, that was easy. 2K Games has complied with our subliminal request that it release the PlayStation 3 version of sublime, submerged shooter BioShock in North America on October 21. There was some mental resistance to our suggestions of a worldwide release, however, so you international folks will just have to make do with October 24.

BioShock comes to the PlayStation 3 sporting the same aquatic utopia-turned-dystopia that made the game one of 2007's best, along with Trophies, a new "Survivor" difficulty level and challenge rooms, to be released as downloadable content "shortly after launch."

Gallery: BioShock (PS3)

Joystiq2K Games, would you kindly release BioShock PS3 on October 21? originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Aug 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K2K-Australia2K-Boston2K-Games2K-MarinBioShockBreakingNewsDigital-ExtremesDLCFPSPS3Take-TwoTue, 19 Aug 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ken Levine: BioShock film won't be a stinker]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/07/ken-levine-bioshock-film-wont-be-a-stinker/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/07/ken-levine-bioshock-film-wont-be-a-stinker/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/07/ken-levine-bioshock-film-wont-be-a-stinker/#commentsFiled under:


Speaking to videogaming247.com, 2K Boston's Ken Levine did his best to allay the fear that the upcoming BioShock film will be a turkey. "You're always going to be worried that in that first meeting they're going to be, like, 'OK, it's Kate Hudson and Matthew McConaughey on a desert island hunting for pirate treasure,' but it's not going to go that way," said Levine. The film's director Gore Verbinski (Pirates of the Caribbean) "gets" BioShock according to Levine, and he assures fans that Verbinski and script writer John Logan "will very much honour the dramatic and thematic elements of the game." Considering Verbinski managed to turn a theme park ride into a decent set of films, we're hopeful that Levine's faith is justified. Then again, the last time someone made a game movie and claimed to really understand the source material, we wound up Silent Hill.

Fingers crossed.

JoystiqKen Levine: BioShock film won't be a stinker originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Aug 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k2k-bostonbioshockbioshock-filmbioshock-movieken-levinetake-twoThu, 07 Aug 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[BioShock being 'optimized' for PS3 by Digital Extremes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/bioshock-being-optimized-for-ps3-by-digital-extremes/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/bioshock-being-optimized-for-ps3-by-digital-extremes/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/bioshock-being-optimized-for-ps3-by-digital-extremes/#commentsFiled under: ,


2K Games has announced a partnership with Dark Sector developer, Digital Extremes, to aid in the completion of the PlayStation 3 version of superb submerged shooter, BioShock. Digital Extremes is the fourth studio to join the project -- 2K Marin, 2K Australia and 2K Boston have already dove in -- and aims to give PS3 players a "fully optimized experience," complete with new features and content. And trophies, probably.

James Schmalz, CEO and founder of Digital Extremes, noted that the decision to work on the critically acclaimed project didn't even require a brain. "When 2K approached us to assist with development on BioShock for the PLAYSTATION 3 system, it was a no-brainer," he said. "You really can't ask for a more exciting, technically impressive world to work in than Rapture, and the incredible knowledge and talent between the 2K studios and our team at Digital Extremes is unprecedented." Apparently, when it launches this October, BioShock will make the PS3 "sing with Big Daddy goodness and Little Sister 'thank you's'."

Gallery: BioShock (PS3)

JoystiqBioShock being 'optimized' for PS3 by Digital Extremes originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Jul 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-Australia2K-Boston2K-Games2K-MarinBioshockDigital-ExtremesPS3Thu, 03 Jul 2008 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 BioShock getting 'as-yet-unannounced' bits]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/ps3-bioshock-getting-as-yet-unannounced-bits/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/ps3-bioshock-getting-as-yet-unannounced-bits/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/ps3-bioshock-getting-as-yet-unannounced-bits/#commentsFiled under: , ,


While BioShock's October release on the PlayStation 3 may bring visual parity with versions already available, news from the official PlayStation blog teases that the upcoming descent into Rapture may come with a few unexpected surprises.

According to 2K Marin exec Alyssa Finley, the game is being handled by four different studios, with 2K Marin sharing kitchen space with 2K Australia, 2K Boston, and another mystery partner "with some outstanding PS3-specific coding chops." In addition, Finley notes that the devs at 2K Boston are currently banging out code for the version's "as-yet-unannounced components," while simultaneously refining the game's physics to take "maximum advantage" of the PS3's inner voodoo. All said, we're more than interested to see how this latest take on one of last year's landmark releases measures up, even as platform zealots prepare to sling mantra to the effect of 'my Big Daddy can beat up your Big Daddy!'

Gallery: BioShock (PS3)

JoystiqPS3 BioShock getting 'as-yet-unannounced' bits originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Jun 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-australia2k-boston2k-marin2kaustralia2kboston2kmarinbioshockfpsPS3take-twotaketwoWed, 04 Jun 2008 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[First screens of BioShock on PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/28/first-screens-of-bioshock-on-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/28/first-screens-of-bioshock-on-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/28/first-screens-of-bioshock-on-ps3/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click to "Big Daddy" size
2K Games has released the first (teeny-tiny) round of images from BioShock on PS3, following up on this morning's official announcement of the game. And ... it looks like BioShock. On Xbox 360.

As mentioned in our previous post about the game's PS3 debut, developer 2K Marin is looking into ways to enhance the game for Sony's platform, but stopped short of providing any hard details. The latest issue of Electronic Gaming Monthly reports that the game essentially looks indistinguishable from the 360 original, and that the only "enhancements" at present are the plasmid additions and bug fixes that were pushed out to the 360 release via Xbox Live. 2K Marin has told EGM that it is working with Sony on more substantial enhancements, but at present they remain as murky as the sea enveloping Rapture.

Gallery: BioShock (PS3)

JoystiqFirst screens of BioShock on PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 May 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-australia2k-boston2k-games2k-marinbioshockfpsPS3take-twoWed, 28 May 2008 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BioShock surfaces on PS3 this October]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/28/bioshock-surfaces-on-ps3-this-october/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/28/bioshock-surfaces-on-ps3-this-october/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/28/bioshock-surfaces-on-ps3-this-october/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


During the month of Halloween, you PlayStation 3 owners will finally have the opportunity to wield blunt instruments and bludgeon a pack of masked weirdos. Especially if they're between you and a PS3 copy of BioShock, which has been slated for release in October.

Having wrenched free from its Xbox 360 and Windows exclusivity, the waterlogged dystopia sim hopes to win those Game of the Year awards all over again, especially with the aid of "new features and content that will make this a must-have game for its new audience, as well as for those who enjoyed it on the other platforms." We're not sure what developer 2K Marin plans to add, but we hope it's less upsetting than our idea of SixAxis-powered Little Sister shakin'.

JoystiqBioShock surfaces on PS3 this October originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 May 2008 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-Australia2k-Boston2k-MarinBioshockFPSPCPS3Take-TwoXbox-360Wed, 28 May 2008 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Get creative with BioShock vending MP3 downloads]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/04/get-creative-with-bioshock-vending-mp3-downloads/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/04/get-creative-with-bioshock-vending-mp3-downloads/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/04/get-creative-with-bioshock-vending-mp3-downloads/#commentsFiled under:

Major Nelson and Elizabeth from 2K Games just partnered up to offer a few short, sweet and completely downloadable audio clips from everybody's favorite Big Daddy adventure, BioShock. The audio clips are all master tracks taken from Rapture's quirky odd talking vending machines. As an added bonus, once you play but one of these audio clips, we guarantee that you'll be instantly taken back to your Rapture gaming days. Ahhh ... Rapture ...

Now, you may be asking what the heck you want with a few random (yet very yummy) audio samples from BioShock's vending machines. Well, if you were a creative fellow, you wouldn't be asking that now would you? Use them as a ringtone, apply them as your computer's error message, mix some samples into a full fledged song or just keep looping a clip while you sleep at night. Be creative and share how you'll be using your newly downloaded BioShock vending clips.

JoystiqGet creative with BioShock vending MP3 downloads originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Apr 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k2k-boston2k-gamesbioshockirrational-gamesFri, 04 Apr 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Milk it! BioShock MMO, mobile, and movie are 'potential opportunities']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/26/milk-it-bioshock-mmo-mobile-and-movie-are-potential-opportun/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/26/milk-it-bioshock-mmo-mobile-and-movie-are-potential-opportun/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/26/milk-it-bioshock-mmo-mobile-and-movie-are-potential-opportun/#commentsFiled under: , ,

As predictable as adapting moody, atmospheric shooter BioShock into a movie is - hell, if they're squeezing a mobile game out of the "franchise" a movie hardly seems far-fetched - we weren't quite expecting to hear that owner Take-Two is considering a BioShock MMO as well. (Also listed as an "MMOG/Online Gaming" opportunity: Civilization.)

Maybe Take-Two's just really into alliteration and thought the two extra Ms made slide 24 - titled "Potential Untapped Opportunities" - of chairman Strauss Zelnick's presentation at the 2008 Smid Cap Conference today that much more attractive? Or maybe it wanted to show shareholders that Take-Two has everything it needs to compete with the likes of EA in-house, including big-name brands that can be milked to exhaustion. Might we suggest sure-to-be-lucrative BioShock Big Daddy mittens ... or perhaps BioShock "Plasmid brand" malted milk balls ...

[Via Massively]

JoystiqMilk it! BioShock MMO, mobile, and movie are 'potential opportunities' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 Mar 2008 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-BostonBioShockBioShock-moviemoviesTake-TwoWed, 26 Mar 2008 18:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Gorgeous but totally unofficial BioShock 2 art]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/03/gorgeous-but-totally-unofficial-bioshock-2-art/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/03/gorgeous-but-totally-unofficial-bioshock-2-art/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/03/gorgeous-but-totally-unofficial-bioshock-2-art/#commentsFiled under:

As a preemptive warning to those searching for any BioShock 2 news, details or leaked assets. This concept art isn't real. Well, actually, let us re-phrase that. This concept art is real, but is not tied to the yet to be announced BioShock 2 and is actually the work of a talented artist by the name of Ben Mauro. The reason the artwork looks very BioShock'esque is because Mr. Mauro actually took inspiration from BioShock to create the concept art and a BioShock 2 "pitch" for his college architecture course. We think everyone can agree that it's lovely art and it makes our head ponder what will be in the BioShock sequel ... what ideas we have.

[Via CVG]

JoystiqGorgeous but totally unofficial BioShock 2 art originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 03 Mar 2008 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-boston2k-gamesbioshockbioshock-2irrational-gamesMon, 03 Mar 2008 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Levine: Wii Bowling is the 'ultimate gateway drug']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/28/levine-wii-bowling-is-the-ultimate-gateway-drug/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/28/levine-wii-bowling-is-the-ultimate-gateway-drug/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/28/levine-wii-bowling-is-the-ultimate-gateway-drug/#commentsFiled under:

Ken Levine, that dude who made that Bioshock game all of the kiddies went crazy over last year, recently spoke with GamesIndustry.biz about his stature in the industry now that he's made what most consider to be one of the greatest games of this console generation. But, Levine did take some time to touch on what he thinks about the casual market and how Nintendo is introducing new gamers into the fold.

You see, Levine is embracing the changes that Nintendo and their Wii console are looking to bring to the industry. "Wii Bowling is like the ultimate gateway drug and God bless them for figuring that out because there is no barrier of entry," he explains. "Hey, can you go like that?" [swings arm] That's what you do in bowling, that's what you do in Wii Sports."

Levine sees those that would otherwise ignore gaming as getting into it, commenting "I think there's a much better chance of people who wouldn't normally be interested in games going in and thinking "I'm interested in the history of Rome. I'll buy that strategy game," whereas before they would have been overwhelmed by the very concept of it." And, Levine, you're not the only one. We're excited about the future of gaming and how the Wii will help shape it, too!

[Via Go Nintendo]

JoystiqLevine: Wii Bowling is the 'ultimate gateway drug' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Feb 2008 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k2k-bostonbioshockcasualken-levinewiisportsThu, 28 Feb 2008 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[BioShock's Big Daddy just wants to have fun]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/27/bioshocks-big-daddy-just-wants-to-have-fun/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/27/bioshocks-big-daddy-just-wants-to-have-fun/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/27/bioshocks-big-daddy-just-wants-to-have-fun/#commentsFiled under:


While trolling the 4chan image boards the team at Bits Bytes Pixels Sprites stumbled upon this a gorgeous wallpaper depicting the Big Daddy and Little Sister having, as our own Dustin would say, "good times."

Ripped from the narrative of the award-winning BioShock, the Big Daddy and Little Sister are central characters in the great underwater city of Rapture and have inspired everything from fan art to developer discussions on the importance of simple stories in games. This beautiful piece deserves to be added to your desktop, so would you kindly download it.

JoystiqBioShock's Big Daddy just wants to have fun originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Feb 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-bostonbioshockken-levinewallpaperWed, 27 Feb 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC08: Ken Levine says to keep the story simple]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/gdc08-ken-levine-says-to-keep-the-story-simple/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/gdc08-ken-levine-says-to-keep-the-story-simple/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/gdc08-ken-levine-says-to-keep-the-story-simple/#commentsFiled under:

"Details seem like the hard work, they seem like they important part, but they're not your friend. They really just drag you down."

It's a surprising message from BioShock developer Ken Levine, who spoke this morning at the GDC. But despite how intricate his game was, he said that plotting details are (with a few exceptions) best left out. He says that the best storyteller is the one that might seem the most benign: The world.

"What is he engaged in all of the time? What's right there in his face? He's engaged in the world," he said.

Gallery: Ken Levine Storytelling Gallery

Continue reading GDC08: Ken Levine says to keep the story simple

JoystiqGDC08: Ken Levine says to keep the story simple originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Feb 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-bostonbioshockGDCgdc08ken-levineWed, 20 Feb 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BioShock flick is a <strike>go</strike>... no]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/11/bioshock-flick-is-a-strike-go-strike-no/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/11/bioshock-flick-is-a-strike-go-strike-no/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/11/bioshock-flick-is-a-strike-go-strike-no/#commentsFiled under:

Early last month Joystiq reported the rumor that an unnamed Hollywood studio was in talks with Take Two Interactive to secure the rights to a film based on the best selling 2007 title BioShock.

While its been quiet since the rumor surfaced, an article on The Cult Scene, a gaming blog on Variety's website, claims that even more studios have shown an interest in creating a film based on the game. "You'd be hard pressed to find a production company, studio, or agency with at least one videogame savvy employee that isn't interested in Bioshock," blogger Ben Fritz says, "Take Two has been bombarded with requests from producers and studios interested in obtaining the rights [to the game]." While we love BioShock, we're not too keen on sending it to die on the silver screen with other games like Street Fighter, Super Mario Bros. and BloodRayne. Besides didn't they already made a Big Daddy flick?

JoystiqBioShock flick is a go... no originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-bostonbioshockmoviestake-twoMon, 11 Feb 2008 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[BioShock nabs 'record-breaking' 12 nominations from AIAS awards]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/18/bioshock-nabs-record-breaking-12-nominations-from-aias-awards/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/18/bioshock-nabs-record-breaking-12-nominations-from-aias-awards/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/18/bioshock-nabs-record-breaking-12-nominations-from-aias-awards/#commentsFiled under: ,


Not content with manhandling the Spike VGAs, the BAFTA awards, the AP game of the year (and we're sure other acronym-determined awards), BioShock has dominated the Academy of Interactive Arts and Sciences' list of nominees for the Interactive Achievement Awards, to be held at next month's D.I.C.E. Summit. The underwater corridor crawler racked up a reportedly "record-breaking" 12 nominations, with Call of Duty 4 bringing up a close second place.

Though we doubt the winners will be announced to the world via a lineup of bare-chested women (ahem), the IAAs will be hosted by Jay Mohr for the third year running and broadcast by both GameSpot and Comcast (through their video-on-demand service). Previous Game of the Year winners have included the GoWs, God of War and Gears of War.

[Via Gamasutra]

Continue reading BioShock nabs 'record-breaking' 12 nominations from AIAS awards

JoystiqBioShock nabs 'record-breaking' 12 nominations from AIAS awards originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Jan 2008 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-BostonAIASBioShockDICEPCXbox-360Fri, 18 Jan 2008 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Kindly check the mail: Big Daddies are en route]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/17/kindly-check-the-mail-big-daddies-are-en-route/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/17/kindly-check-the-mail-big-daddies-are-en-route/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/17/kindly-check-the-mail-big-daddies-are-en-route/#commentsFiled under: ,


If you've got a Big Daddy figure who's been suffering from Drill Dysfunction, you'll be happy to hear that we've heard from several tipsters that replacements for the figurines are being sent out, just four short months after the game was initially released. Not that you've forgotten, but you'll also be treated to the BioShock-themed art book "Breaking the Mold."

Sadly, you'll no longer be required to send in your old Big Daddy as verification that he was, indeed, a DD suffer. We say sadly because we can't shake the image of a broken-drilled Little Daddy staring out the window while your new one flies around the room with cries of "To infinity and beyond!" Let's try to remember who was in your hearts first and make him feel included, OK?

JoystiqKindly check the mail: Big Daddies are en route originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 Jan 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-boston2k-gamesbig-daddybioshockXbox-360Thu, 17 Jan 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Bioshock team looking for PS3 developers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/14/bioshock-team-looking-for-ps3-developers/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/14/bioshock-team-looking-for-ps3-developers/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/14/bioshock-team-looking-for-ps3-developers/#commentsFiled under:


2K Boston, the team behind the wildly success Bioshock, is looking for a number of PS3 programmers. "PS3 and production experience using Python or Ruby will be highly regarded" for the Tools Programmer position. "Experience with PS3 development is highly desirable." for the Senior Console Programmer position. "PlayStation3 experience highly desirable" for the Programmer position.

Something has us thinking that the 2K Boston team is making a PS3 game. Just call it a hunch. Of course, this is in stark contrast to previous rumors that they were avoiding PS3 altogether. Could the sequel to Bioshock be coming to PS3? Considering 2K's acquisition of the team, we say it's very likely.

[Thanks, Matthew P.]

JoystiqBioshock team looking for PS3 developers originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Jan 2008 22:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-bostonbioshockMon, 14 Jan 2008 22:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: BioShock movie murmurs in Hollywood]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/08/rumor-bioshock-movie-murmurs-in-hollywood/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/08/rumor-bioshock-movie-murmurs-in-hollywood/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/08/rumor-bioshock-movie-murmurs-in-hollywood/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Digging through all the praise heaped upon BioShock, you're sure to scrape your nails across several repeated phrases such as "engaging," "gripping" and "atmospheric." Some have even said it's "pretty good." The most common one, however, is sure to be "cinematic," a term that places BioShock and Hollywood in rather close proximity. A reliable source within a major film production company has told Joystiq that the two have been getting along famously, with a movie adaptation of 2K's successful franchise already being discussed by the Big Daddies internally.

The studio hopes to bring the fallen aquatic utopia of Rapture to celluloid life through extensive use of green screen technology, an approach not dissimilar to Legendary Pictures' interpretation of 300. If the computer generated approach is deemed feasible and fitting, the focus can then shift to capturing BioShock's secondary (and uninhabited) characters. While it's not guaranteed to move beyond these early stages, this project has our full support, if only so we can see M. Night Shyamalan's face when he gets out-twisted.

Of course, the potential film would do well to remember that while it's desirable for a game to share traits with cinema, the opposite situation will likely earn a thumbs down from most critics.

Gallery: BioShock


Gallery: BioShock: Breaking the Mold

JoystiqRumor: BioShock movie murmurs in Hollywood originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 Jan 2008 20:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K2K-BostonBioShockBioShock-movieKen-LevineMicrosoftmoviesPCTake-TwoXbox-360Tue, 08 Jan 2008 20:04:00 EST