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 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Gorgeous Halo 4 concept shots found on Xbox Live Marketplace]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/gorgeous-halo-4-concept-shots-found-on-xbox-live-marketplace/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/gorgeous-halo-4-concept-shots-found-on-xbox-live-marketplace/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/gorgeous-halo-4-concept-shots-found-on-xbox-live-marketplace/#comments ImageHalo 4 isn't all Master Chief and his revamped blue buddy. It's also got giant, uninhabited spaces with incredible views, as seen in the two Xbox Live Marketplace "Premium Themes" that Little English Halo Blog snagged.

The vista above - full of upside down buildings hanging precariously over a mountain range and marked with a UNSC shuttlecraft of some form - seems to be a Forerunner world of some form, but we can't be sure. As for the second screen, it looks like an engine room, but then we're not exactly future engineers.

JoystiqGorgeous Halo 4 concept shots found on Xbox Live Marketplace originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 May 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-industriesconcept-arthalo-4microsoftmicrosoft-studiosxboxxbox-live-marketplaceFri, 25 May 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo 4's 'Infinity' multiplayer to introduce Spartan Ops, War Games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/halo-4s-infinity-multiplayer-to-introduce-spartan-ops-war-ga/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/halo-4s-infinity-multiplayer-to-introduce-spartan-ops-war-ga/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/halo-4s-infinity-multiplayer-to-introduce-spartan-ops-war-ga/#comments ImageAs the November 6 launch of Halo 4 approaches, Microsoft is doling out more information about its multiplayer modes, collectively known as "Infinity Multiplayer" (surprise!). The game will introduce a brand new mode called Spartan Ops, which tells the story of the UNSC Infinity, the massive ship that serves as Halo 4's multiplayer hub (pictured). Spartan Ops will serve as an episodic continuation of Halo 4's campaign, with weekly cinematic episodes that "center on the UNSC Infinity leaders and crew, and a new team of Spartans - Majestic Squad." Each episode will include new missions, allowing one to four players to "explore the corners of Requiem in these objective-based missions, and help uncover the secrets of the mysterious Forerunner world."

Halo 4's competitive multiplayer will be known as War Games and, as previously detailed, will offer plenty of character progression and customization, such as armor specializations that enable "combat enhancements" tailored to specific play styles.

Both War Games and Spartan Ops are included with the standard edition of Halo 4, though those willing to pony up the dough for the $99 special edition will also receive 9 maps (to be doled out across three map packs after launch) and early access to six armor specializations.

Continue reading Halo 4's 'Infinity' multiplayer to introduce Spartan Ops, War Games

JoystiqHalo 4's 'Infinity' multiplayer to introduce Spartan Ops, War Games originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 May 2012 11:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-Industrieshalo-4microsoftmicrosoft-studiosxboxxbox-liveWed, 16 May 2012 11:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Two new Halo 4 enemies give away their position on McFarlane toy box]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/two-new-halo-4-enemies-give-away-their-position-on-mcfarlane-toy/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/two-new-halo-4-enemies-give-away-their-position-on-mcfarlane-toy/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/two-new-halo-4-enemies-give-away-their-position-on-mcfarlane-toy/#comments ImageTwo new enemies for Halo 4 have been outed on the back of a Series 1 McFarlane toy package, dubbed the "Crawler" and "Watcher," a photo from All Games Beta shows. The box includes images of each new enemy: The Crawler looks like a hellhound stuck its head in a vat of boiling yellow glow-stick liquid, while the Watcher appears to be a moth-mounted, flying beetle creature.

343 Industries better throw a leash on these Halo 4 image leaks before All Games Beta renames itself to "Official Halo 4 Pictures For Everyone Always, Enjoy."

JoystiqTwo new Halo 4 enemies give away their position on McFarlane toy box originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 May 2012 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-Industriescrawlerenemieshalo-4imagesleakmicrosoftwatcherxboxMon, 14 May 2012 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Titan Books publishing Awakening: The Art of Halo 4 in November]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/titan-books-publishing-awakening-the-art-of-halo-4-in-november/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/titan-books-publishing-awakening-the-art-of-halo-4-in-november/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/titan-books-publishing-awakening-the-art-of-halo-4-in-november/#comments If you prefer your books to be light on those word things, you might want to join us in our favorite pastime - perusing books with lots of pictures in them. Titan Books will produce such a collection of images centered around Halo 4, called Awakening: The Art of Halo 4.

It's a hardcover tome of concept art from 343 Industries highlighting "characters, weapons, vehicles, and environments" from this year's installment in Microsoft's popular franchise. "This collection will provide a detailed look at the art created specifically for Halo 4, with commentary by the creative team at 343 Industries," the announcement reads.

Awakening: The Art of Halo 4 will be available at your favorite Bookatorium in November, which conveniently happens to be when Halo 4 launches.

Gallery: Halo 4 (Concept Art)

JoystiqTitan Books publishing Awakening: The Art of Halo 4 in November originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 May 2012 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-industriesawakeningawakening-the-art-of-halo-4halo-4microsofttitan-booksxboxWed, 09 May 2012 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo 4 heading 'Forward Unto Dawn' with new live-action web series [update: teaser image]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/halo-4-heading-forward-unto-dawn-with-new-live-action-web-seri/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/halo-4-heading-forward-unto-dawn-with-new-live-action-web-seri/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/halo-4-heading-forward-unto-dawn-with-new-live-action-web-seri/#comments ImageIt wouldn't be a Halo launch without a tremendous media campaign, and Halo 4 looks to be no different. The weeks leading up to the Master Chief's return this November will be filled with a new web series entitled "Forward Unto Dawn," according to Variety. Representing Microsoft's "largest investment" in live-action ever, the series will be shown on Machinima and Halo Waypoint.

Details around the series still lie dormant - perhaps buried in a Forerunner facility - with Microsoft aiming to shed more light on the project at the San Diego Comic-Con this July. Using our own pervasive powers of prognostication, we're going to predict that Spartans figure into the series somehow.

Update: Microsoft has passed along an image to promote the series and, sure enough, it looks like the Chief will be making an appearance. Check out the full image in the gallery below.

Gallery: Halo 4: Forward Unto Dawn announcement

JoystiqHalo 4 heading 'Forward Unto Dawn' with new live-action web series [update: teaser image] originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 Apr 2012 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-Industrieshalohalo-4live-actionmarketingmicrosoftmicrosoft-studiosxboxMon, 30 Apr 2012 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[New Halo 4 shots reintroduce Grunts, Elites, and ... guns?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/new-halo-4-shots-reintroduce-grunts-elites-and-guns/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/new-halo-4-shots-reintroduce-grunts-elites-and-guns/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/new-halo-4-shots-reintroduce-grunts-elites-and-guns/#comments ImageAre you sitting down? Are you fully braced? You should probably brace yourself for this shocking news: Halo 4 will have Grunts, Elites, and guns. Yes, it's true, Master Chief will once again be blasting through suicidal Grunts and proud Elites in his battle against ... well, we're not really sure.

But these latest shots, freshly leaked on AllGamesBeta, assure us that at least two of Halo's classic foes will be returning in Halo 4. We're holding out hope that the Flood manage to miss this round. Please, 343 Industries? Pretty please?

Regardless, the screen above also indicates it's been over three years since the Chief's last contact with his former UNSC buddies. That's quite a bit of sleep. Enough to call it hibernation, even! And now we're picturing space bears in hibernation. Thanks, Halo.

Gallery: Halo 4 (Concept Art)

JoystiqNew Halo 4 shots reintroduce Grunts, Elites, and ... guns? originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Apr 2012 12:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-industrieshalo-4leakmicrosoftmicrosoft-studiosxboxFri, 20 Apr 2012 12:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo 4, starring Conan O'Brien and Andy Richter as professional crate movers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/halo-4-starring-conan-obrien-and-andy-richter-as-professional/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/halo-4-starring-conan-obrien-and-andy-richter-as-professional/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/halo-4-starring-conan-obrien-and-andy-richter-as-professional/#comments Image
Ahead of tonight's episode of Conan, Team Coco went ahead and posted the full nine-minute Halo 4 segment starring 343 Industries' Kiki Wolfkill and Frank O'Connor. Conan's got pitches for his low-key role as "dude who moves crates in space during war," as well as a variety of subtle costume ideas. See it all for yourself just above.

JoystiqHalo 4, starring Conan O'Brien and Andy Richter as professional crate movers originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Apr 2012 22:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-industriesconan-obrienfrank-oconnorhalo-4kiki-wolfkillmicrosoftmicrosoft-studiosxboxTue, 17 Apr 2012 22:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo 4 awakens Master Chief on November 6]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/halo-4-wakes-up-master-chief-on-november-6/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/halo-4-wakes-up-master-chief-on-november-6/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/halo-4-wakes-up-master-chief-on-november-6/#comments
Microsoft and 343 Industries announced this morning that Halo 4 will launch worldwide on Tuesday, November 6. The news comes one day after teasy tweets from Microsoft's Major Nelson indicated some form of collaboration between Microsoft and everyone's favorite freakishly tall late night host, Conan O'Brien, which sparked rumors of a potential launch date reveal.

Microsoft studios corporate VP Phil Spencer offered lofty goals alongside the launch date announce. "With Halo 4 leading the charge, we're confident 2012 will be the most successful year in Xbox history," Spencer said. He also pointed out that Halo 4 is just the beginning of Microsoft's renewed relationship with the Chief. "We are beginning a new saga with Halo 4 and embarking on a journey that will encompass the next decade of Halo games and experiences." Just no more cat helmets, Phil. That's all we ask.

Additionally, Halo 4 will appear in some form on tonight's episode of "Conan," which Microsoft described as nothing more than a "special segment."

Update: Red vs Blue created the charming short above to announce Halo 4's release date. Enjoy!

Continue reading Halo 4 awakens Master Chief on November 6

JoystiqHalo 4 awakens Master Chief on November 6 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Apr 2012 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-industriesconanconan-obrienhalo-4microsoftmicrosoft-studiosphil-spencerq4-2012red-vs-bluerelease-datexboxTue, 17 Apr 2012 11:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo 4's multiplayer introduces 'Regicide' mode, 'Forerunner vision']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/halo-4s-multiplayer-introduces-regicide-mode-forerunner-vis/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/halo-4s-multiplayer-introduces-regicide-mode-forerunner-vis/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/halo-4s-multiplayer-introduces-regicide-mode-forerunner-vis/#comments Halo 4's various competitive multiplayer modes will feature new ways to slaughter your friends, as well as refreshed versions of old classics, according to a video interview with lead multiplayer designer Brad Welch at Game Informer.

One of the new modes, Regicide, is a free-for-all deathmatch in which one player is the "King," and all other players must attempt to usurp his/her throne. Killing non-King players rewards points as per usual, although not as many as are gained by killing the King, who has a substantial bounty placed upon their heads. Said bounty increases with every successful kill the King accrues during the match, until their demise.

Welch also detailed Halo 4's ranking and unlockable abilities system: Players earn XP as they win, eventually leveling up and being rewarded with Spartan Points, which are in turn spent on new armor abilities. "Forerunner vision," which grants the ability to see through walls, as well as "hologram and active cammo" were named specifically, though we expect that's just the tip of the iceberg.

JoystiqHalo 4's multiplayer introduces 'Regicide' mode, 'Forerunner vision' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 16 Apr 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-Industriesforerunner-visionhalo-4microsoftmultiplayerregicidexboxMon, 16 Apr 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo 4's music composed by Neil Davidge [update: samples]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/halo-4s-music-composed-by-neil-davidge-and-matt-dunkley/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/halo-4s-music-composed-by-neil-davidge-and-matt-dunkley/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/halo-4s-music-composed-by-neil-davidge-and-matt-dunkley/#comments
With Bungie moving away from the Halo series, audio lead Marty O'Donnell is gone as well, meaning that Halo 4 will probably sound different. Edge revealed the identity of the new, non-O'Donnell music team today: composer Neil Davidge, formerly of Massive Attack, and orchestrator/conductor Matt Dunkley (The Dark Knight, Black Swan, Inception).

"Hopefully the Halo fans will see that we're being respectful," Dunkley told Edge, "but we've also taken it somewhere else, and maybe onto a higher plane. If you're always trying to reference back, you're not creating new things."

"It's a new journey, it's a new story, it's a new arc," said self-professed Halo fan Davidge, "and so I feel like my job is not to revolutionise or reinvent but to continue the evolution, and I have a slightly different voice to those guys."

Update: Check out a "ViDoc" about the new composers above. And listen to some samples after the break.

Continue reading Halo 4's music composed by Neil Davidge [update: samples]

JoystiqHalo 4's music composed by Neil Davidge [update: samples] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-industriescomposerhalo-4matt-dunkleymicrosoftmicrosoft-studiosmusicneil-davidgexboxWed, 11 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Introducing Halo 4's Cortana]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/introducing-halo-4s-cortana/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/introducing-halo-4s-cortana/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/introducing-halo-4s-cortana/#comments ImageYou have to wonder why Master Chief - essentially a sexless cyborg - has a voluptuous female counterpart, but it's a bit late in the Halo franchise to be asking such questions. Instead, we simply accept that the Chief's virtual partner-in-heroism will once again return in this fall's Halo 4, and now we know what she looks like (care of the latest Game Informer cover reveal, as seen above).

Given the conclusion of Halo 3, we were kinda expecting the Chief's blue buddy to have a straitjacket wrapped around her projected avatar, but perhaps that and more will be explained when the game arrives later this year.

Oh, and for comparison's sake, we've dropped an image of Halo 3's Cortana just below the break. Her newer likeness is kinda ... less blue? A bit? That's all we got.

Continue reading Introducing Halo 4's Cortana

JoystiqIntroducing Halo 4's Cortana originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 19:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-industriescortanacovergame-informerhalo-4microsoftmicrosoft-studiosxboxThu, 05 Apr 2012 19:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo 4 'Warhouse' multiplayer map concept art and info deployed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/halo-4-warhouse-multiplayer-map-concept-art-and-info-deployed/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/halo-4-warhouse-multiplayer-map-concept-art-and-info-deployed/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/halo-4-warhouse-multiplayer-map-concept-art-and-info-deployed/#comments Warhouse is a massive mining ship, one of the multiplayer maps available in Halo 4 when it ships later this year. On the outside, there is a beautiful space vista to distract you while a Spartan sneaks up behind you and bashes your billion-dollar helmet in with his Battle Rifle. Inside, there is a giant half-built mech to distract you while -- well, while the same thing happens.

Warhouse is a working title for this map, 343 says in the latest Halo Bulletin update. It's a smaller, symmetrical map designed for Slayer gametypes. "We wanted this playspace to be similar competition-wise to older symmetrical maps in previous Halos, so we sought influence from those, and also from the industrial close-quarters combat in more recent games," the 343 blog post reads.

There are a series of small pathways connecting various areas of Warhouse, allowing for what 343 hopes are many surprising encounters. You know, like that time that Spartan sneaked up behind you and -- well, you get the idea.

Gallery: Halo 4 (Warhouse concept art)

JoystiqHalo 4 'Warhouse' multiplayer map concept art and info deployed originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 Mar 2012 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-Industriesconcept-arthalohalo-4microsoftmicrosoft-studioswarhousexboxFri, 30 Mar 2012 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[There is no Halo 4 beta or Halo4beta site]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/11/there-is-no-halo-4-beta-or-halo4beta-site/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/11/there-is-no-halo-4-beta-or-halo4beta-site/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/11/there-is-no-halo-4-beta-or-halo4beta-site/#comments There are no plans for Halo 4 to receive a public beta, 343 Industries announced in a Q&A with franchise development director Frank O' Connor. He answered a slew of fan questions about Halo 4, revealing that it would be possible to play Grifball, that there would not be a color-blind mode (though considerations for that audience have been made in art decisions), and a few other tidbits. Check out the full factsheet here.

In related Halo 4 news, Microsoft recently won a legal battle against the bogus website Halo4beta.net, but as there won't be a Halo 4 beta we don't expect it to be put back into official use any time soon. Microsoft has also filed a complaint against Halo4beta.biz.

JoystiqThere is no Halo 4 beta or Halo4beta site originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 11 Mar 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-IndustriesbetafrankieHalohalo-4legalmicrosoftxboxSun, 11 Mar 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo 4 bringing the Battle Rifle back, introducing unlockable abilities in progression system]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/05/halo-4-bringing-the-battle-rifle-back-introducing-unlockable-ab/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/05/halo-4-bringing-the-battle-rifle-back-introducing-unlockable-ab/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/05/halo-4-bringing-the-battle-rifle-back-introducing-unlockable-ab/#comments
Few fictional weapons can drum up their own cult following. The cadence and rat-tat-tat ruthlessness of Halo's Battle Rifle is unmistakable no matter which side of the barrel you're on. It's a death sentence in the right hands, punctuated by an ellipsis of bullets ... and painfully described in overwrought, armament love letters built on phrases like "ellipsis of bullets." As far as iconic Halo bits and pieces go, the Battle Rifle seems almost as inextricable as Master Chief.

And yet the cyborg with humanity at heart skipped enough games for Microsoft to make a big deal out of his return in Halo 4. The new (ish) franchise custodians at 343 Industries are in a tight spot, where they have to shape a message not only around what's new, but what's coming back. The Battle Rifle's return is an easy way to establish the latter, then, especially to those fans who couldn't wrap their heads around the weapon's disappearance in the first place.

Speaking to Joystiq in an interview last year, former Bungie game designer Jaime Griesemer saw the weapon as a piece of deadly nostalgia. "It's not just a weapon, it's the weapon," he said. "For a skilled player, they spend most of their time using that one weapon. If you never miss, it's the most effective tool in the toolbox. So for them, Halo 3 is the Battle Rifle. All their Halo emotion and experience is tied up in it. So it isn't surprising to me when people react that way."

How daunting must it be to work in a space where a video game gun can reach beloved status? It's no wonder Microsoft is being sensitive and cryptic about Halo 4, which introduces what could be the biggest, most widespread (and controversial) change to the multiplayer in years. According to 343, Halo 4 will add customizable loadouts and abilities that are unlocked through a progression system.

Gallery: Halo 4 (05/03/12)

Continue reading Halo 4 bringing the Battle Rifle back, introducing unlockable abilities in progression system

JoystiqHalo 4 bringing the Battle Rifle back, introducing unlockable abilities in progression system originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Mar 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-industriesbattle-riflehalo-4jaime-griesemermaster-chiefmicrosoftxboxxbox-showcase-2012Mon, 05 Mar 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo 4 to feature one heavy Master Chief]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/halo-4-to-feature-one-heavy-master-chief/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/halo-4-to-feature-one-heavy-master-chief/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/halo-4-to-feature-one-heavy-master-chief/#comments When we all saw the teaser for Halo 4, our first question was: "What is up with that armor?" Last time we checked, he didn't have a jetpack. Could Master Chief actually be Barry Steakfries?

Nope, it's all part of 343 Industries' plan to update the Master Chief's armor for Halo 4. A blog post on Halo Waypoint discusses the "800 pounds of tank and jet fighter" strapped to Chief's frame. "So we pulled that design into the armor and HUD. When you play Halo 4, it's important you understand that you're more than just a gun on the screen. To give you that feeling, we have represented that weight with player physics, without interrupting crosshair and shooting accuracy."

Despite Chief's bulk, 343 describes him in Halo 4 as "a nimble yet heavy superhero." His design will contrast against the bulky Spartan armor design seen in Bungie's last effort, Halo: Reach. "When we first looked at the Chief's armor, we studied what was done in Reach. We knew he needed to be understood as a nimble yet heavy superhero, and contrast that with Reach armor design that was more on the bulky side. Our goal is to hit that sweet spot where we represent what is fictionally true about the Chief while making sure you feel like you're a super-powerful human being when you're playing him."

In short, 343 is aiming to better convey his physical weight to the players -- and it sounds like his movement and characteristics will reflect that. Whether it'll come with a more complex, busier HUD remains to be seen.

JoystiqHalo 4 to feature one heavy Master Chief originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-industrieshalo-4microsoftmicrosoft-studiosreclaimer-trilogyxboxThu, 16 Feb 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft files complaint over fake Halo 4 beta domain]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/28/microsoft-files-complaint-over-fake-halo-4-beta-domain/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/28/microsoft-files-complaint-over-fake-halo-4-beta-domain/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/28/microsoft-files-complaint-over-fake-halo-4-beta-domain/#comments Believe it or not, there are evil people on the Internet who use misinformation and deception to steal from the innocent and well-meaning. We know, we couldn't believe it either, but it's the truth, as recently demonstrated by an outbreak of fake Halo 4 beta test invites.

343 Industries' creative director David Ellis was quick to debunk the bogus site, but the URL used in the phishing scam (halo4beta dot net) is still out there, tempting fate with its Halo-oriented name and un-Microsoftness. Who knows what nefarious maleficence the domain could be used for if left in the wild, so Microsoft has filed a complaint with the National Arbitration Forum in order to have the domain name transferred to its ownership.

In situations like this, the company filing the complaint has to be able to prove that the domain in question was registered maliciously in order for the Forum to decide in its favor. Under the circumstances, we feel like global fraud will probably be malicious enough to sway things in Microsoft's favor.

JoystiqMicrosoft files complaint over fake Halo 4 beta domain originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 28 Jan 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-Industriesbeta-invitesdomainfakehalo-4halo-4-betalawlegalmicrosoftnational-arbitration-forumxboxSat, 28 Jan 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo 4 beta invites are all fake (so far)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/21/halo-4-beta-invites-are-all-fake-so-far/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/21/halo-4-beta-invites-are-all-fake-so-far/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/21/halo-4-beta-invites-are-all-fake-so-far/#comments
Abe Vigoda's not dead, that bridge in Brooklyn isn't really for sale, and there isn't actually an Easter bunny or a tooth fairy. Oh, and that invite to the Halo 4 beta you just got? It's not real either, says 343 Industries' content editor David Ellis. That doesn't mean there won't be a beta, but there isn't one yet.

Santa Claus, though? Totally real.

JoystiqHalo 4 beta invites are all fake (so far) originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 21 Jan 2012 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-industriesbeta-invitesdavid-ellishalo-4halo-4-betahalo-4-beta-inviteshalo-betamicrosoftpsaxboxSat, 21 Jan 2012 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tough Economy: Even Master Chief has to buy Halo]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/22/tough-economy-even-master-chief-has-to-buy-halo/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/22/tough-economy-even-master-chief-has-to-buy-halo/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/22/tough-economy-even-master-chief-has-to-buy-halo/#comments
With engagement ring in pocket, Geekadelphia founder (and friend of the site!) Eric Smith was dumped. While most people would be immediately thrown into a deep depression, Smith opted instead to sell the ring and buy a suit of Master Chief armor. He wrote about the ordeal last week in an essay called "Master Grief" on Bygone Bureau, which was promptly picked up by every website in existence.

Which brings us to the above video. What does someone with a full suit of Master Chief's MJOLNIR armor do when a new Halo game - specifically Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary - comes out? If you answered, "pre-order it on Amazon" well ... you're probably right. But if you're Eric Smith, you drag your ass through Center City Philadelphia and film it. You'd think Chief would be on some kind of VIP list.

JoystiqTough Economy: Even Master Chief has to buy Halo originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 Nov 2011 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-Industrieseric-smithhalo-combat-evolved-anniversarymaster-chiefmicrosoftxboxTue, 22 Nov 2011 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo Living Monument is live]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/15/halo-living-monument-is-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/15/halo-living-monument-is-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/15/halo-living-monument-is-live/#comments The Halo Living Monument is active -- whether it's actually functional for you is an entirely different matter. To celebrate the launch of Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary, the website allows the Halo faithful to upload an image and be part of this grand marketing opportunity.

The monument is a rotating Master Chief with interactive limbs displaying hexagonal portraits of those who have taken the opportunity to upload a photo onto the internet. That seems about it. We guess you could always have a moment of silence, and pray to the monument that next year's Halo 4 ends up succeeding without Bungie at the helm.

JoystiqHalo Living Monument is live originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Nov 2011 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-Industrieshalo-combat-evolved-anniversaryhalo-living-monumentmicrosoftxboxTue, 15 Nov 2011 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq tours Halo Anniversary's Kinect features]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/15/joystiq-tours-halo-anniversarys-kinect-features/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/15/joystiq-tours-halo-anniversarys-kinect-features/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/15/joystiq-tours-halo-anniversarys-kinect-features/#comments
Did you know that Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary has more than just fancy schmancy high resmolution graphics? Well, it also has some nifty (ish) Kinect features. See them yourself in this Joystiq video tour.

JoystiqJoystiq tours Halo Anniversary's Kinect features originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Nov 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-Industrieshalo-combat-evolved-anniversarykinectmicrosoftmicrosoft-studiosxboxTue, 15 Nov 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Deja Review: Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/14/deja-review-halo-combat-evolved-anniversary/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/14/deja-review-halo-combat-evolved-anniversary/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/14/deja-review-halo-combat-evolved-anniversary/#commentsWe're of the firm opinion that your time is too precious, too valuable to be spent reading a full review for a game that was already reviewed many, many years ago. What's the point of applying a score to a game that's old enough to be enrolled in the sixth grade? That's why we invented Deja Review: A quick look at the new features and relative agelessness of remade, revived and re-released games.
He needs a weapon.
You never forget your first. Way back in 2001, halfway through my first year of college, my parents unexpectedly bought me an Xbox for Christmas. My first game was Dead or Alive 3, but the one I'll always remember was something called Halo: Combat Evolved. I'd never heard of it before, but the editors of my gaming magazine of choice -- EGM, as I recall -- gave it not one or two or three, but four 10 out of 10s.

I picked up a copy and the rest, as they say, is history. I played through the campaign alone, and again with friends, and again with my brother, and again with my then future in-laws. I played multiplayer at the only LAN party I've ever attended and I got slaughtered, falling countless times to the effortless pistol precision of friends-of-friends who were actually geekier than I was. But it didn't matter, because Halo was a blast.

Ten years later, it still is.

Gallery: Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary (Campaign)

Continue reading Deja Review: Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary

JoystiqDeja Review: Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Nov 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-industriesbungiedeja-reviewhalo-combat-evolved-anniversarykinectmicrosoftmicrosoft-studiosxboxMon, 14 Nov 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Microsoft launching 'Halo Living Monument' for Combat Evolved Anniversary]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/02/rumor-microsoft-launching-halo-living-monument-for-combat-evo/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/02/rumor-microsoft-launching-halo-living-monument-for-combat-evo/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/02/rumor-microsoft-launching-halo-living-monument-for-combat-evo/#comments Remember when Halo: Reach launched -- all the way way back in 2010 -- and Microsoft asked us to visit a special website and contribute to a "living monument?" You may better recall the marketing that went along with it, but it would seem Microsoft is prepping a similar campaign for Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary.

Fusible claims to have stumbled upon Halo Living Monument, a site Microsoft seemingly set up and registered only weeks ago, and took the above screen cap. And, sure enough, a month ago, Fusible caught the registration. A quick who.is search shows the domain in question is registered to Microsoft.

With Combat Evolved Anniversary only a few weeks out, we anticipate we'll be seeing the site launch soon. Like, now. Now? How about now?

JoystiqRumor: Microsoft launching 'Halo Living Monument' for Combat Evolved Anniversary originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Nov 2011 02:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-industrieshalohalo-combat-evolved-anniversaryhalo-living-monumentmicrosoftxboxWed, 02 Nov 2011 02:30:00 EST<![CDATA[343 goes behind the scenes of Halo: Anniversary's campaign]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/18/343-goes-behind-the-scenes-of-halo-anniversarys-campaign/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/18/343-goes-behind-the-scenes-of-halo-anniversarys-campaign/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/18/343-goes-behind-the-scenes-of-halo-anniversarys-campaign/#comments
This latest trailer from Microsoft's 343 Industries goes behind the scenes on Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary's campaign mode, which the team tells us has been carefully updated graphically and with extra features like online co-op mode, skull modifiers, 3D, and even that Kinect functionality we learned about last weekend. And there's a lot of thought going into these features: Master Chief's retro armor, for example, was iterated on for a good six to seven months (including cues from fan feedback after its first appearance at E3) before the team arrived at the final version.

As Franchise Development Director Frank O'Connor himself says, the updated game certainly seems like quite a smörgåsbord for the Halo fan, all for just $40. Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary is due out on November 15.

Joystiq343 goes behind the scenes of Halo: Anniversary's campaign originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 18 Oct 2011 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-industries3dcampaigngraphicshalo-combat-evolved-anniversarykinectmaster-chiefmicrosoftxboxTue, 18 Oct 2011 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo Waypoint adding 'Atlas,' a multiplayer GPS tracker]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/17/halo-waypoint-adding-atlas-a-multiplayer-gps-tracker/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/17/halo-waypoint-adding-atlas-a-multiplayer-gps-tracker/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/17/halo-waypoint-adding-atlas-a-multiplayer-gps-tracker/#comments
If the Kinect reveal for Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary wasn't enough, 343 Industries also targeted fans with some new Halo Waypoint functionality at this weekend's Comic Con. The downloadable app is getting real-time GPS tracking of multiplayer games via a new service called "Atlas." Yes, seriously -- while you're playing a multiplayer game of Halo: Reach, you can use Waypoint's GPS feature via Windows Phone 7 or the web (and other "mobiles," we're told) to watch troop movements from above.

The updated version of Waypoint also adds the ability to send challenges to friends, similar to the weekly ones set originally via Bungie and now via 343 Industries within Reach multiplayer. 343 reps explained that you'll earn in-game credits for completing these challenges based on the difficulty of said tasks, but didn't dive too deeply into how it will all work exactly.

We'll find out soon enough, as the update to Waypoint launches alongside Halo Anniversary on November 15.

Update: We've added two Waypoint vids from Microsoft showcasing the update, one above and one after the break.

Continue reading Halo Waypoint adding 'Atlas,' a multiplayer GPS tracker

JoystiqHalo Waypoint adding 'Atlas,' a multiplayer GPS tracker originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Oct 2011 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-industriesbrady-gameshalo-combat-evolved-anniversaryhalo-reachhalo-waypointmicrosoftmobilenyccnycc-2011waypointwindows-phone-7wp7xboxMon, 17 Oct 2011 08:45:00 EST<![CDATA['Grenade!': Take a look at Halo Anniversary's Kinect functionality]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/15/grenade-take-a-look-at-halo-anniversarys-kinect-functionali/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/15/grenade-take-a-look-at-halo-anniversarys-kinect-functionali/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/15/grenade-take-a-look-at-halo-anniversarys-kinect-functionali/#comments
As promised, we've got a quick and dirty video of Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary's Kinect functionality, straight from the Halo/343 Industries panel at New York Comic Con. Are you prepared to shout "Grenade!" and have Master Chief straight throw a grenade, all willy nilly? We sure hope so!

Joystiq'Grenade!': Take a look at Halo Anniversary's Kinect functionality originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 15 Oct 2011 22:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-industrieshalohalo-combat-evolvedhalo-combat-evolved-anniversarykinectmicrosoftmicrosoft-studiosnyccnycc-2011xboxSat, 15 Oct 2011 22:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo Anniversary adding 'Analyze Mode' with Kinect [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/15/halo-anniversary-adding-analyze-mode-with-kinect/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/15/halo-anniversary-adding-analyze-mode-with-kinect/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/15/halo-anniversary-adding-analyze-mode-with-kinect/#comments Yes, Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary is getting Kinect functionality -- but you knew that already. Despite a bit of news escaping Tokyo Game Show earlier this year about what the functionality entails, we were promised a fuller reveal "this October." And here we are: 343 Industries reps told Halo panel attendees tonight at NY Comic Con that the game will include a variety of new Kinect features, such as analyzing world items.

When in Anniversary mode (read: fancy new graphics mode), players can use Kinect voice commands to "Analyze" various enemies, which will then add said enemies into a readable in-game database ("The Library" -- no, not that Library). What's more, you can also shout "grenade!" and, well, Master Chief will totally throw a grenade. "Reload weapon!" does ... you get the idea. A video showcasing the additions was shown off and we'll have it up for you as soon as possible. It'll arrive in fuller form on Halo Waypoint this coming Monday.

Update: Analyze Mode is only available with Kinect, 343 says, and won't work if you've only got a controller. Sorry folks!

[Image credit: 'Laugh Pong']

JoystiqHalo Anniversary adding 'Analyze Mode' with Kinect [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 15 Oct 2011 19:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-industrieshalo-combat-evolvedhalo-combat-evolved-anniversarykinectmicrosoftmicrosoft-studiosnyccnycc-2011xboxSat, 15 Oct 2011 19:54:00 EST<![CDATA[When we were your age, we didn't have Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary achievements]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/15/when-we-were-your-age-we-didnt-have-halo-combat-evolved-anniv/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/15/when-we-were-your-age-we-didnt-have-halo-combat-evolved-anniv/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/15/when-we-were-your-age-we-didnt-have-halo-combat-evolved-anniv/#comments It's hard to imagine a Halo game without achievements, but in the long passed, black-and-white prohibition-era yesteryear of 2001, that's just how things were. No 'chievos to grind, no Gamerscore to bolster, and only the earliest, fledgling proto-trolls were hurling racial slurs over Xbox Live.

A lot has changed since then, and Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary knows that kids these days couldn't handle a Halo experience devoid of achievements, so jump past the break for a complete list of points you never had the opportunity to earn in the first place.

Continue reading When we were your age, we didn't have Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary achievements

JoystiqWhen we were your age, we didn't have Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary achievements originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 15 Oct 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343343-Industriesachivementshalohalo-combat-evolved-anniversarykinectmicrosoftxboxSat, 15 Oct 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo Anniversary inspires new set of Minimates toys]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/21/halo-anniversary-inspires-new-set-of-minimates-toys/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/21/halo-anniversary-inspires-new-set-of-minimates-toys/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/21/halo-anniversary-inspires-new-set-of-minimates-toys/#comments In honor of Halo Anniversary, Master Chief and friends are being remastered again, this time as a new series of Minimates toys. The new "Series 4" includes Cortana, Master Chief, Jacob Keys, and the Prophet of Truth. The Master Chief toy even comes with an even mini-er Cortana!

JoystiqHalo Anniversary inspires new set of Minimates toys originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Sep 2011 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-industriesart-asylumhalohalo-combat-evolved-anniversarymicrosoftminimatestoysxboxWed, 21 Sep 2011 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo Anniversary's Kinect functionality partially explained]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/halo-anniversarys-kinect-functionality-partially-explained/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/halo-anniversarys-kinect-functionality-partially-explained/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/halo-anniversarys-kinect-functionality-partially-explained/#comments Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary may be just a couple months away, but Halo franchise development director Frank O'Connor is still keeping mum on some of the remake's Kinect functionality. He did let a few bits of info slip, however. "For example, you can switch to Classic or Anniversary mode using voice commands," he explained to me in a meeting at TGS 2011 this week. Wait, really? That's it?

"We actually have some more story content in the game that's gonna be supported by Kinect," he added. Unfortunately, either the folks at 343 Industries or its corporate benefactors at Microsoft Studios have deemed the rest of the information too early to mete out. "We've added a really interesting feature we're gonna talk about in October that uses Kinect to add some story to the game."

As interesting as the content may be, it may never make it to the final product -- apparently the October reveal is about more than a carefully timed marketing plan for the re-release of a decade old game. "We're still testing the features, so if it doesn't work, we're gonna change it." And with just under two months to go until launch, 343 had better get a move on.

[Image credit: 'LaughPong']

JoystiqHalo Anniversary's Kinect functionality partially explained originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Sep 2011 11:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-industriesfrank-oconnorhalo-combat-evolved-anniversarykinectmicrosoftmicrosoft-studiostgstgs-2011tokyo-game-showtokyo-game-show-2011xboxFri, 16 Sep 2011 11:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo Anniversary gets Headlong remake; Reach title update drops Sept. 21]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/14/halo-anniversary-gets-headlong-remake-reach-title-update-drops/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/14/halo-anniversary-gets-headlong-remake-reach-title-update-drops/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/14/halo-anniversary-gets-headlong-remake-reach-title-update-drops/#comments If you spent any considerable amount of time with Halo 2, then you've likely stomped around the Headlong map in your billion-dollar boots, helping to fertilize its soil with a few dead bodies. A new and improved version of that large-scale map, dubbed Breakneck, will ship with Halo Combat Evolved Anniversary, 343 Industries announced today.

Some graphical tweaks have been made, but you may notice some layout differences as well. That teleporter on the Blue base's balcony has been replaced with a man-cannon and some panels have been added up there for better cover when moving from building to building. Red side's had an extension added to the Engineering Hallway and lost a chunk of the ceiling in the Office.

343 also sent word on the next big title update for Halo: Reach, due on September 21. Initially, the title update won't change anything for you, but come October 4 a special beta playlist will become active with 4-on-4 Objective and Slayer game modes. Here is where 343 will monitor games so that it can continue to shape Reach.

Feel free to hop into our gallery below to check out shots of the new and improved Headlong Breakneck. You'll get a chance to see it in person when Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary launches on November 15.

Gallery: Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary (Breakneck map)

JoystiqHalo Anniversary gets Headlong remake; Reach title update drops Sept. 21 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Sep 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-industriesbreakneckbungiehalo-2halo-combat-evolved-anniversaryhalo-reachheadlongmicrosoftmultiplayerxboxWed, 14 Sep 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo 4 creative director Ryan Payton leaves Microsoft, opens Camouflaj [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/06/halo-4-creative-director-ryan-payton-leaves-microsoft-opens-cam/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/06/halo-4-creative-director-ryan-payton-leaves-microsoft-opens-cam/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/06/halo-4-creative-director-ryan-payton-leaves-microsoft-opens-cam/#comments Moving from Metal Gear Solid 4 to Halo 4, ex-EGM freelancer turned game producer Ryan Payton was building a resume of high profile sequels to rest his career on. But before he could help Master Chief finish the next fight, he announced that he was leaving 343 Industries and Microsoft to open his own studio, Camouflaj.

"Some people say I'm crazy, but I want to make a game that one billion people play at once, and it's something that hits them harder than a great book or film," Payton says of Camouflaj's future projects, of which there are currently two in development.

In 2008, Payton helped launched Metal Gear Solid 4 as assistant producer at Kojima Productions in Tokyo, but when his mother in the US was diagnosed with cancer he decided to move closer to home. After interviewing at "several" studios, he decided on Microsoft, where we now know he was working on Halo 4. Unfortunately, it seems that the Halo he wanted to build wasn't exactly what Microsoft had in mind. "The Halo I wanted to build was fundamentally different and I don't think I had built enough credibility to see such a crazy endeavor through," he told Kotaku in an interview.

After seeing friend and Haunted Temple Studios creative lead Jake Kazdal laboring on his own project, Skulls of the Shogun, Payton decided it was time for a change. "I think time is the most valuable thing we have, and I've decided that I'm not going to waste one more day working on something that doesn't speak to my values."

Update: Microsoft has released a statement regarding Payton's departure, stating: "343 Industries has assembled an all-star cast of talent working on 'Halo 4' under the design leadership of Studio and 'Halo 4' Creative Director, Josh Holmes. We're excited to tell the next story in the 'Halo' universe with 'Halo 4' as the first game in the Reclaimer Trilogy. Ryan Payton, who left earlier this summer, served as Narrative Designer on 'Halo 4' for 15 months. Armando Troisi was hired as the 'Halo 4' Narrative Director in March, having formerly served as the Lead Cinematic Designer on 'Mass Effect 2.' Ryan has been a great friend and colleague during his tenure at 343 Industries and we appreciate his contributions to the team. We wish Ryan the best in his new game development venture."

JoystiqHalo 4 creative director Ryan Payton leaves Microsoft, opens Camouflaj [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Sep 2011 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343343-industriescamouflajhalo-4kojima-productionsmicrosoftmicrosoft-studiosryan-paytonxboxTue, 06 Sep 2011 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary screens not ideal for time-travel gloating]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/30/halo-combat-evolved-anniversary-screens-not-ideal-for-time-trav/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/30/halo-combat-evolved-anniversary-screens-not-ideal-for-time-trav/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/30/halo-combat-evolved-anniversary-screens-not-ideal-for-time-trav/#comments "Hey, me from ten years ago! Check out how awesome our Halo looks in 2011!"

"We're still playing the same games ten years from now? Good job."

"Well ... uh ... it's in 3D, you know. There's 3D in your house now."

Continue reading Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary screens not ideal for time-travel gloating

JoystiqHalo: Combat Evolved Anniversary screens not ideal for time-travel gloating originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 30 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-Industrieshalo-combat-evolved-anniversaryhalo-festhalo-fest-2011microsoftxboxTue, 30 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo 4 videos give inside look at concept art and audio]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/29/halo-4-videos-give-inside-look-at-concept-art-and-audio/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/29/halo-4-videos-give-inside-look-at-concept-art-and-audio/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/29/halo-4-videos-give-inside-look-at-concept-art-and-audio/#comments
Halo Waypoint has orbitally dropped a couple of videos from this weekend's Halo Fest at PAX. They feature sounds from a deadly potato gun and concept art from the upcoming Halo 4.

Continue reading Halo 4 videos give inside look at concept art and audio

JoystiqHalo 4 videos give inside look at concept art and audio originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Aug 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-Industrieshalo-4halo-festmicrosoftxboxMon, 29 Aug 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo 4 begins The Reclaimer Trilogy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/28/halo-4-begins-the-reclaimer-trilogy/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/28/halo-4-begins-the-reclaimer-trilogy/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/28/halo-4-begins-the-reclaimer-trilogy/#comments

The new Halo series will be named the Reclaimer Trilogy, developer 343 Industries revealed at the PAX Halo 4 panel. Halo 4 is a direct sequel to Halo 3, and the new trilogy will emphasize Master Chief as both a character and a force to be reckoned with. The iteration of Master Chief in this year's E3 teaser was not the final version, and 343 wants to sell "the fantasy that Master Chief is an 800-pound hero that is part tank, part jet fighter" with the Reclaimer Trilogy. Cortana will play a large role in Master Chief's storyline, in a "unique relationship that hasn't been addressed in other games," 343 said.

The Reclaimer Trilogy will balance classic Halo gameplay with innovations in weaponry and abilities to give long-time fans a sense of something new, 343 said. Creative director Josh Holmes described Halo 4's overall gameplay in simple, traditional terms: "Well, it plays like Halo."

JoystiqHalo 4 begins The Reclaimer Trilogy originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 28 Aug 2011 16:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-Industrieshalo-4microsoftThe-Reclaimer-TrilogyxboxSun, 28 Aug 2011 16:52:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo Combat Evolved Anniversary preview: Like falling off a log]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/27/halo-combat-evolved-anniversary-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/27/halo-combat-evolved-anniversary-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/27/halo-combat-evolved-anniversary-preview/#comments I haven't been particularly skillful at any of the Halo games that succeeded Halo -- a direct result of the fact that the original game possesses a language that the rest of the series eschewed. Perhaps it was a language of simplicity; after all, true success only demanded proficiency with one weapon, the pistol, which could take enemies down in a handful of well-placed headshots. Forget armor abilities, dual wielding and deployable items: There was only gun, and the manner in which you used gun.

While playing Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary earlier this week -- in its single-player, multiplayer and multi-dimensional varieties -- I was struck by how quickly that language came sailing back to me. I probably didn't realize it until that moment, but in the ten years that have passed since the original launch of Halo, I've really come to miss Halo.

Gallery: Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary (Gamescom 2011)

Continue reading Halo Combat Evolved Anniversary preview: Like falling off a log

JoystiqHalo Combat Evolved Anniversary preview: Like falling off a log originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 27 Aug 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-Industrieshalohalo-combat-evolved-anniversaryhalo-festmicrosoftpax-prime-2011xboxSat, 27 Aug 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo Anniversary adds 3 more maps, including PC version's 'Timberland']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/26/halo-anniversary-adds-3-more-maps-including-pc-versions-timbe/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/26/halo-anniversary-adds-3-more-maps-including-pc-versions-timbe/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/26/halo-anniversary-adds-3-more-maps-including-pc-versions-timbe/#comments Coniferous Reports from the frontlines of Halo Fest, as relayed by Major Nelson, have revealed three new multiplayer maps for the upcoming Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary. The highlight of the bunch is probably Timberland, the pine-studded arena from the PC version of Halo (original version pictured), suitable for 8 to 16 players. Next up is Prisoner, a symmetrical map with bridges designed for 2-8 players.

Finally, a new Firefight map has been announced. Titled Installation 04, the map is based on the level "Halo" from the original game, which you might remember as the first level in which Master Chief set foot on the ring world (after crash landing).

Update: We also learned of a neat new feature of the additional Firefight map while perusing Halo Fest: While you hold off the hordes of Covenant, you'll be aided by AI-controlled Marines, further simulating the level from the original game. Just don't, you know, kill them, or else you'll lose valuable points, and also probably fractions of your soul, because that's murder.

JoystiqHalo Anniversary adds 3 more maps, including PC version's 'Timberland' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Aug 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-Industriesbungiecertain-affinityhalo-combat-evolved-anniversaryhalo-festhalo-fest-2011mapsmicrosoftpax-2011timberlandxboxFri, 26 Aug 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo: Reach title update coming in September, Armor Lock getting nerfed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/26/halo-reach-title-update-coming-in-september-armor-lock-getting/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/26/halo-reach-title-update-coming-in-september-armor-lock-getting/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/26/halo-reach-title-update-coming-in-september-armor-lock-getting/#comments At last night's Halo Fest event, we learned about a rather beefy title update to Halo: Reach that's set to launch sometime next month. The patch implements a number of significant (and, therefore, controversial) changes to the multiplayer title, with the biggest being the nerfing of the Armor Lock ability. Instead of making you an invulnerable juggernaut, Armor Lock now only prevents most of the damage done to you whilst locked, and no longer detaches stuck plasma grenades.

Other changes include: the addition of "Shield Bleed-through," whereby damage done to players with a fraction of their shield remaining can now be carried over to their remaining health; an option to remove reticle bloom; the removal of a player's ability to deflect an oncoming sword lunge by meleeing (unless they too are using a sword); and the wholesale buffing of the pistol, bringing it closer to parity with its Halo: Combat Evolved predecessor.

JoystiqHalo: Reach title update coming in September, Armor Lock getting nerfed originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Aug 2011 12:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-Industriesbungiehalohalo-festhalo-fest-2011Halo-Reachhalofest-2011microsoftpatchupdatexboxFri, 26 Aug 2011 12:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary supports 3D TVs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/26/halo-combat-evolved-anniversary-supports-3d-tvs/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/26/halo-combat-evolved-anniversary-supports-3d-tvs/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/26/halo-combat-evolved-anniversary-supports-3d-tvs/#comments Microsoft has announced that Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary will have a 3D display mode. This confirms another piece of information from the report we gave you in February.

Demonstrated to us at the recent Gamescom event in Germany, Halo's 3D intensity is scalable and only works in the game's updated graphics mode. Producer Dan Ayoub claims the framerate will stay "consistent" with 3D activated, even when things get hectic.

The 3D experience will not be available in splitscreen co-op, nor when shifting over to Halo's original graphics engine. Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary will be available on November 15.

JoystiqHalo: Combat Evolved Anniversary supports 3D TVs originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-Industries3dBungieBungie-Studioshalo-combat-evolved-anniversarymicrosoftxboxFri, 26 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Examine Halo 4's Warthog in Forza 4's 'Auto Vista' mode]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/26/halo-warthog-in-forza-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/26/halo-warthog-in-forza-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/26/halo-warthog-in-forza-4/#comments Ever wanted to know the deep lore behind and automotive specs inside Halo's most abundant form of military transportation? You can and you will, provided you pick up Turn 10's upcoming racer, Forza Motorsport 4. At last night's Halo Fest event, the studio announced that the new, Halo 4 model of the ubiquitous Warthog would be featured as an easter egg in the game's spectatorial "Auto Vista" mode.

This means that you'll be able to sail around the new iteration of the car (using either a controller or Kinect-based gestures), manipulating its every feature and learning more about its backstory thanks to some 343-penned narration. The best part? Those voiceovers are performed by Jen Taylor, the actor behind Halo's luminous guide, Cortana.

The worst part? The Warthog's only viewable in Auto Vista mode, and won't be driveable in actual races. We suppose that would be unfair, because, you know, chaingun.

JoystiqExamine Halo 4's Warthog in Forza 4's 'Auto Vista' mode originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Aug 2011 11:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-Industrieseaster-eggforza-4forza-motorsport-4halohalo-4halo-combat-evolved-anniversaryhalofest-2011kinect-forzamicrosoftturn-10xboxFri, 26 Aug 2011 11:08:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary Comic-Con video talks terminals]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/30/halo-combat-evolved-anniversary-comic-con-video-talks-terminals/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/30/halo-combat-evolved-anniversary-comic-con-video-talks-terminals/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/30/halo-combat-evolved-anniversary-comic-con-video-talks-terminals/#comments

Comic-Con is the gift that keeps on giving, whether it's the spandex burn from that crazy night at the Marriott, or the sneak-peak videos that keep emerging online. The above video from the Halo Universe panel gives us some more story behind Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary, and a look at what role the terminals may play in the franchise's future with 343 Industries.

JoystiqHalo: Combat Evolved Anniversary Comic-Con video talks terminals originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 30 Jul 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-Industriescomic-con-2011halo-combat-evolved-anniversarymicrosoftxboxSat, 30 Jul 2011 20:30:00 EST