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[Molyneux's Godus goes mobile, Mobage with publisher DeNA]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/molyneuxs-godus-goes-mobile-mobage-with-publisher-dena/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/molyneuxs-godus-goes-mobile-mobage-with-publisher-dena/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/molyneuxs-godus-goes-mobile-mobage-with-publisher-dena/#comments22Cans' Godus gets publisher, DeNA Godus, the Kickstarted god game from Peter Molyneux's 22Cans, will be published on mobile devices by DeNA in western territories, Japan and Korea. Godus raised £526,563 ($852,000) with Kickstarter in December, exceeding its goal of $£450,000 ($730,000). It will launch on PC and Mac, alongside mobile devices Android, iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch.

Godus will use DeNA's Mobage platform for mobile and social games, joining previous handheld iterations within the No More Heroes, Final Fantasy and Professor Layton franchises, to name a few.

Continue reading Molyneux's Godus goes mobile, Mobage with publisher DeNA

JoystiqMolyneux's Godus goes mobile, Mobage with publisher DeNA originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 May 2013 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>22CansandroidDenagodusiosipadiphonemobagemobilePeter-MolyneuxTue, 21 May 2013 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Spicy Horse's Oz game is OZombie: 'If I only had some brainsss']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/19/spicy-horses-oz-game-is-ozombie-if-i-only-had-some-brainsss/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/19/spicy-horses-oz-game-is-ozombie-if-i-only-had-some-brainsss/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/19/spicy-horses-oz-game-is-ozombie-if-i-only-had-some-brainsss/#commentsSpicy Horse's Oz game is OZombie 'If I only had some brainsss' Spicy Horse's Oz game combines the undead with "an Oz not of our remembering" - it's called OZombie, and it stars Dorothy, Toto, the Lion and the Tin Woodsman. The Scarecrow, who always wanted brains, is cast as the villain in this iteration, and instead of carrying around a basket, Dorothy gets a repeater.

Spicy Horse is unsure which game it will make next, OZombie or Alice: Otherlands, and it all depends on whether the studio can regain the Alice rights from EA. If Spicy Horse and EA work out a good deal, then Alice it is. If not, OZombie gets the green light and probably a Kickstarter.

"Actually, the more I think about it - and the more I see/hear feedback from you guys - the more I'm personally leaning towards Oz," Spicy Horse founder American McGee writes on the OZombie Facebook page. "There's so much fun stuff to explore, so many interesting characters and locations to discover. Wonderland will also be there, if not today, if not the next project, then perhaps the one after that?"

Keep in mind (and mind your brains) that OZombie is entirely separate from American McGee's Oz, the game Atari canceled in 2004.

JoystiqSpicy Horse's Oz game is OZombie: 'If I only had some brainsss' originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 19 May 2013 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alice-otherlandsandroidiosipadiphonemobileozozombiepcspicy-horsethe-wizard-of-ozWizard-of-OzSun, 19 May 2013 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nvidia Shield pre-orders open early (as in, right now)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/nvidia-shield-pre-orders-open-early-as-in-right-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/nvidia-shield-pre-orders-open-early-as-in-right-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/nvidia-shield-pre-orders-open-early-as-in-right-now/#comments Nvidia canceled its forced wait time to pre-order an Nvidia Shield, allowing anyone to commit to the $350 Android handheld as of now. The Nvidia Shield is available for pre-order directly through Nvidia or through select retailers: GameStop, Micro Center, Canada Computers and New Egg.

The Nvidia Shield - previously known as Project Shield - is a handheld gaming console powered by Android. It has a five-inch retinal multi-touch screen capable of 720p, 16GB of internal storage and can stream your PC games, granted you have a GTX 650 GPU or better in your PC.

JoystiqNvidia Shield pre-orders open early (as in, right now) originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 May 2013 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidmobilenvidianvidia-shieldproject-shieldFri, 17 May 2013 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sonic the Hedgehog speeds to Android today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/sonic-the-hedgehog-speeds-to-android-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/sonic-the-hedgehog-speeds-to-android-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/sonic-the-hedgehog-speeds-to-android-today/#comments Update: The game is now available on the Google Play store.

There are quite a few Sonic games available on Android, but today marks the first appearance of the Blue Blur's original adventure, Sonic the Hedgehog. Sonic's first adventure has been updated for mobile devices, adding widescreen support, a remastered soundtrack, leaderboards and more. Furthermore, a brand new addition will allow users to play as either Knuckles or Tails. This new feature is also being added to the iOS version of Sonic the Hedgehog via a free update.

The game hasn't appeared on the North American Google Play store as of this writing, but it's slated to arrive today for $2.99.

Continue reading Sonic the Hedgehog speeds to Android today

JoystiqSonic the Hedgehog speeds to Android today originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 May 2013 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidgoogle-playiosipadiphonemobilesegasonic-the-hedgehogThu, 16 May 2013 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Indie platform confessional: Steam, Humble Store, Apple, Android]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/indie-platform-confessional-steam-humble-store-apple-android/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/indie-platform-confessional-steam-humble-store-apple-android/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/indie-platform-confessional-steam-humble-store-apple-android/#commentsIndie platform confessional Steam, Humble Store, Apple, Android
The internet is kind of like a classic confessional - except it's not a box, it's a lot brighter and everyone can hear what you have to say. Still, we asked a handful of independent developers for their thoughts on what exactly makes a platform effective, and they spilled it all, dissecting the pros and cons of the most popular, current models of distibution.

Today, we feature answers from Ridiculous Fishing's Rami Ismail, Canabalt's Adam Saltsman, Octodad's Philip Tibitoski, Retro City Rampage's Brian Provinciano and others. This group of developers had specific thoughts about Steam, the Humble Store, Apple's app stores and the Android hub, Google Play.

This follows yesterday's batch of answers from the Steam, Humble Store, iOS and Android camps. Let the confessions begin:

Continue reading Indie platform confessional: Steam, Humble Store, Apple, Android

JoystiqIndie platform confessional: Steam, Humble Store, Apple, Android originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 May 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidIndieindie-confessionaliosipadiphonemobilepcThu, 16 May 2013 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Angry Birds flick flies to cinemas July 1, 2016]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/angry-birds-flick-flies-to-cinemas-july-1-2016/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/angry-birds-flick-flies-to-cinemas-july-1-2016/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/angry-birds-flick-flies-to-cinemas-july-1-2016/#comments A release for the upcoming Angry Birds flick has been narrowed to July 1, 2016, with Sony distributing the movie worldwide, Rovio announced on its website today.

Rovio's intent on creating a feature film was made public late last year, when the studio tapped producers John Cohen and David Maisel from Despicable Me and Iron Man to lead the project. The Angry Birds movie is unique in that it's being completely done in-house - Rovio is funding and producing the film entirely on its own.

JoystiqAngry Birds flick flies to cinemas July 1, 2016 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 May 2013 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidangry-birdsangry-birds-movieiosipadiphonemacmobilepcrovioWed, 15 May 2013 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Google Play launches game services for mobile, social, cloud gaming]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/google-play-launches-game-services-for-mobile-social-cloud-gam/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/google-play-launches-game-services-for-mobile-social-cloud-gam/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/google-play-launches-game-services-for-mobile-social-cloud-gam/#commentsGoogle Play launches game services for mobile, social, cloud gaming Google is kicking off games services on its Play Store that allows developers to add achievements, social and public leaderboards, cloud saving, and real-time multiplayer. The games service goes live today and works completely on Android, and mostly on iOS or other "connected devices" - that second batch won't support multiplayer.

Google Play's games services differs from Apple's Game Center in that it offers backend support, rather than a standalone application.

Anyone making a game with Google Play has access to its developer services. A handful of games already have these services incorporated: World of Goo, Super Stickman Golf 2, Beach Buggy Blitz, Kingdom Rush, Eternity Warriors 2 and Osmos.

"We won't make it a mandatory exercise, or have any certification process around it," Google lead product manager Greg Hartrell told Engadget. "We create fantastic services that allow developers to create these great game experiences, and help promote their discovery, help retain their users and keep them engaged."

Check out the games services on Google's developer site.

Continue reading Google Play launches game services for mobile, social, cloud gaming

JoystiqGoogle Play launches game services for mobile, social, cloud gaming originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 May 2013 12:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidgamesgames-servicesgooglegoogle-gamesgoogle-io-2013google-playiosipadiphonemobileWed, 15 May 2013 12:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Karateka Classic coming to iOS and Android tomorrow]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/karateka-classic-coming-to-ios-and-android-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/karateka-classic-coming-to-ios-and-android-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/karateka-classic-coming-to-ios-and-android-tomorrow/#commentsKarateka Classic coming to iOS, Android History repeats itself in both video games and colas it seems. Years after releasing the original Karateka, Jordan Mechner revised the formula, giving the world "new" Karateka. Some people liked the new flavor - others, not so much. Hearing the demand of fans everywhere, Mechner has announced that Karateka Classic is coming back, specifically to iOS and Android.

Karateka Classic recreates the Apple II experience - right down to the disk drive noises - and offers a range of "monitor" choices, including color CRT, green or amber display. There are a couple of new additions, including gameplay tips and a rewind feature that can be earned, allowing players to reverse their mistakes.

Karateka Classic arrives on iOS and Android tomorrow for $0.99.

Gallery: Karateka Classic

JoystiqKarateka Classic coming to iOS and Android tomorrow originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 May 2013 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidiosipadiphonejordan-mechnerkarateka-classicliquid-entertainmentmobileWed, 15 May 2013 10:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Rovio lets loose Stars publishing program for third-party games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/rovio-lets-loose-stars-publishing-program-for-third-party-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/rovio-lets-loose-stars-publishing-program-for-third-party-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/rovio-lets-loose-stars-publishing-program-for-third-party-games/#comments
Rovio is entering the mobile publishing arena through its Rovio Stars initiative, which will cover the whole spectrum of publishing duties such as marketing and PR. Rovio will even consult with developers to help them optimize their games prior to launch.

Budding developers can already submit their mobile works to Rovio Stars through a handy application page, though all applicants must have a playable build to present. Screens, videos and other supplementary materials are also encouraged, as it provides Rovio with a better sense of the overall game.

As of now, Rovio Stars has recruited two games: Icebreaker: A Viking Voyage from Longdon-based Nitrome (based on the Flash version) and Tiny Thief from Barcelona indie outfit 5 Ants. The latter is due sometime this summer, while Icebreaker's mobile release is tentatively scheduled for "soon" on the official site.

Continue reading Rovio lets loose Stars publishing program for third-party games

JoystiqRovio lets loose Stars publishing program for third-party games originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 May 2013 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5antsandroidicebreaking-a-viking-voyageiosipadiphonemobilenitromeroviorovio-starstiny-thiefWed, 15 May 2013 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EA developing Frostbite Go mobile game engine for iOS and Android]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/ea-developing-frostbite-go-mobile-game-engine-for-ios-and-androi/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/ea-developing-frostbite-go-mobile-game-engine-for-ios-and-androi/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/ea-developing-frostbite-go-mobile-game-engine-for-ios-and-androi/#commentsEA has a mobile version of Frostbite EA has published a website for its Frostbite graphical engine, and text on the website mentions the existence of a project called Frostbite Go, which EA describes as "a mobile division empowering EA game developers with Frostbite's proven excellent workflows and features to bring true Frostbite experiences to all major mobile platforms." In other words, the company is putting together the technology to run Frostbite on platforms such as iOS and Android.

The blurb doesn't say which version of Frostbite the mobile engine will be based on, but given that Frostbite 3 is the new hotness around EA, it's a fair guess that the company is adapting the latest and greatest for Frostbite Go. We're supposed to see Frostbite 3 games arrive later on this year (with Battlefield 4 being the first of these), so odds are that any Frostbite Go-created products should hit the market at that same time.

JoystiqEA developing Frostbite Go mobile game engine for iOS and Android originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 May 2013 22:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidbattlefield-4developmenteaenginefrostbitefrostbite-3frostbite-gogamegamesiosipadiphonemobileTue, 14 May 2013 22:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Steam is king in service wars, Humble Store a sleeping giant, indies say]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/steam-is-king-in-service-wars-humble-store-a-sleeping-giant-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/steam-is-king-in-service-wars-humble-store-a-sleeping-giant-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/steam-is-king-in-service-wars-humble-store-a-sleeping-giant-in/#commentsSteam is king in service wars, Humble Store a sleeping giant, indies say Twenty-one randomly selected indie developers walk into a digital room and ponder the question, "Which online distribution system has been the most effective for your games?"

If this were the set-up to a joke, the punchline would probably be, "Facebook." But for many indie developers, the question of which platform to publish their games on is a very serious one, with potentially dire consequences. Pared down, platform success is all about accessibility, upload and support, and in terms of those factors, there's a clear, unsurprising favorite: Steam.

But maybe not for long.

I asked 21 indie developers this question, and while the majority mentioned Steam in the same casual manner that begets an unchallenged king, there were consistent whispers of other platforms doing things well, perhaps even better than Steam, from a backend perspective. One of these platforms was the Humble Store, which received the second-highest number of solid votes and a handful of positive shout-outs.

"I owe pretty much my entire survival the last few years to iOS, the Humble Store, and to a lesser extent Android and Steam," Adam Saltsman, the creator of Canabalt, said. But iOS ran into some bad censorship issues, Android had discoverability problems and Steam was "obviously" too closed, he said. If Saltsman could choose just one of those platforms to release his next game on, it would be, "Humble Store," hands-down.

Continue reading Steam is king in service wars, Humble Store a sleeping giant, indies say

JoystiqSteam is king in service wars, Humble Store a sleeping giant, indies say originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 May 2013 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androideShophumble-storeiosipadiphonemicrosoftmobilenintendopcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3PSNSTEAMvitawii-uXBLAxbligxboxTue, 14 May 2013 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Portabliss: Mosaique (iOS, Android)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/portabliss-mosaique-ios-android/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/portabliss-mosaique-ios-android/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/portabliss-mosaique-ios-android/#commentsThis is Portabliss, a column about downloadable games that can be played on the go.


Puzzle games tend to fall into one of two categories. There are the fast and frenetic ones, where you watch pieces smash into one another, pushing your mental and physical reflexes as far as they can go before a wire is crossed and it all comes crashing down, hopefully after you've set a new high score. Then there are the Zen puzzlers. These are slow, asking you to plan the best moves for the highest score. You examine the board, analyzing its patterns and discerning how best to eliminate all those pesky blocks or orbs or gems or what-have-you.

Mosaique falls into the latter category, presenting a deceptively simple game of destroying colored blocks. At no point will it bring you either the stress or exultation of a Tetris or a Puzzle Fighter, but sometimes that's okay. Sometimes you want to sit back, relax, and watch as everything falls into place.

Continue reading Portabliss: Mosaique (iOS, Android)

JoystiqPortabliss: Mosaique (iOS, Android) originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 May 2013 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidiosipadiphonemobilemosaiqueportablisswinning-blimpTue, 14 May 2013 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Nvidia Shield: Joystiq goes hands-on]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/nvidia-shield-joystiq-goes-hands-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/nvidia-shield-joystiq-goes-hands-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/nvidia-shield-joystiq-goes-hands-on/#comments
The Nvidia Shield arrives next month for $349.99, and yesterday I got to sit down with the final version of the hardware. The first thing I noticed was the heft: bulkier than a PS Vita, but no less comfortable.

Where the PS Vita sacrificed bigger buttons for smaller form factor, the Nvidia Shield takes a lot of inspiration from the Xbox 360 controller. In fact, the left and right triggers feel identical to the Xbox 360 and, more or less, so does the d-pad. The one big difference from Microsoft's gamepad is the symmetrical analog sticks.

Gallery: NVIDIA Shield (Hands-on)

Continue reading Nvidia Shield: Joystiq goes hands-on

JoystiqNvidia Shield: Joystiq goes hands-on originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 May 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidmobilenvidianvidia-shieldproject-shieldTue, 14 May 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nvidia Shield launches in June for $350, pre-orders open May 20]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/nvidia-shield-launches-in-june-for-350-pre-orders-open-may-20/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/nvidia-shield-launches-in-june-for-350-pre-orders-open-may-20/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/nvidia-shield-launches-in-june-for-350-pre-orders-open-may-20/#comments Nvidia's Project Shield - now officially dubbed Nvidia Shield - will launch before the end of June for $349.99, Nvidia has announced. Pre-orders for the Tegra 4-powered Android handheld will open on May 20, through select online and brick-and-mortar retailers: New Egg, GameStop, Micro Center and Canada Computers. Those on Nvidia's Project Shield notification list can pre-order starting today.

With the price and pre-order date, Nvidia announced five new games coming to the platform: Broken Age and Costume Quest from Double Fine, Flyhunter: Origins from Steel Wool Games, Skiing Fred from Dedalord Games and Chuck's Challenge from Chuck Sommerville's Niffler, who you may recall of Chip's Challenge fame.

The Nvidia Shield is running Android 4.2.1, sports a 5-inch retinal display capable of 720p and has 16GB of internal storage, expandable through a SD card slot on the back. Other hardware features include a built-in mic and GPS, plus a mini-HDMI out in the back. The Shield is also capable of streaming games from your PC, granted you have a GTX 650 GPU or better in there.

All Nvidia Shields will include two free games: Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 2 and Expendable: Rearmed. We'll have a hands-on video with the final Nvidia Shield and some impressions up soon.

Gallery: NVIDIA Shield (Hands-on)

JoystiqNvidia Shield launches in June for $350, pre-orders open May 20 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 May 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidmobilenvidianvidia-shieldproject-shieldrelease-dateTue, 14 May 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hit mobile RPG Puzzle & Dragons earned $113 million in April]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/hit-mobile-rpg-puzzle-and-dragons-earned-113-million-in-april/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/hit-mobile-rpg-puzzle-and-dragons-earned-113-million-in-april/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/hit-mobile-rpg-puzzle-and-dragons-earned-113-million-in-april/#commentsHit mobile RPG Puzzle & Dragons earned $113 million in April In its latest financial report (translated here by Dr. Serkan Toto) Osaka-based publisher GungHo Entertainment announced that its mobile puzzle-RPG Puzzle & Dragons grossed over $113 million in April.

To put that in perspective, GungHo's catalog-wide earnings for April totaled ¥12 billion ($119 million) - a 1,142.8 percent increase over its performance in April 2012. Puzzle & Dragons currently generates $3.76 million in daily revenue, and boasts 13 million players in Japan.

Puzzle & Dragons originally launched for iOS and Android devices last year. A Nintendo 3DS adaptation is slated for release in Japan this winter.

JoystiqHit mobile RPG Puzzle & Dragons earned $113 million in April originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidfinancialsgunghoiosiphonemobilepuzzle-and-dragonsMon, 13 May 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[C-Wars Kickstarter ends with over $95K raised, heading to Wii U, iOS and Vita]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/12/c-wars-kickstarter-ends-with-over-95k-raised-heading-to-wii-u/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/12/c-wars-kickstarter-ends-with-over-95k-raised-heading-to-wii-u/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/12/c-wars-kickstarter-ends-with-over-95k-raised-heading-to-wii-u/#comments C-Wars, the cyberpunk roguelike RTS by Beijing developer OniPunks Studio, raised a total of $95,574 in its Kickstarter campaign, which ended Saturday. That's $63,574 more than its initial $32,000 goal, just under 300 percent of its funding aspirations thanks to 3,348 backers.

The campaign hit a number of stretch goals along the way, which will result in the PC, Mac, Linux and Android game also coming to 3DS, Vita, Wii U and iOS. C-Wars is estimated to launch in late 2013.

JoystiqC-Wars Kickstarter ends with over $95K raised, heading to Wii U, iOS and Vita originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 12 May 2013 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsandroidc-warsCyberpunkiosipadiphonekickstarterLinuxmacmobilenintendoonipunksonipunks-studiopcplaystationplaystation-vitaroguelikeRTSvitawii-uSun, 12 May 2013 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Google Play Games leaks out, will feature matchmaking and achievements]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/12/google-play-games-leaks-out-will-feature-matchmaking-and-achiev/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/12/google-play-games-leaks-out-will-feature-matchmaking-and-achiev/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/12/google-play-games-leaks-out-will-feature-matchmaking-and-achiev/#comments'Google Play Games' leaks out, will feature matchmaking and achievements The Android answer to Apple's Game Center app on iOS will be Google Play Games, according to information obtained by Android Police from a Play Services APK teardown. The service will bring lobbies and invites for matchmaking, in-game chat, cloud game saves, achievements and leaderboards to the platform for developers to make use of.

The APK Android Police pulled apart is a file package primarily used to update Android apps, so this update was riddled with code that indicated what features would be coming to the platform down the road, but aren't accessible just yet. There is certainly a good chance Google Play Games will be fully unveiled at Google's I/O event next week in San Francisco.

JoystiqGoogle Play Games leaks out, will feature matchmaking and achievements originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 12 May 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Achievementsandroidcloud-savesgame-centergooglegoogle-playgoogle-play-gamesleaderboardsmatchmakingmobileSun, 12 May 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Into the Dead, endless zombie shooter for mobile, hits 10 million]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/into-the-dead-endless-zombie-shooter-for-mobile-hits-10-millio/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/into-the-dead-endless-zombie-shooter-for-mobile-hits-10-millio/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/into-the-dead-endless-zombie-shooter-for-mobile-hits-10-millio/#commentsInto the Dead, endless zombie shooter for mobile, gets 10 million hits Mobile games may not all reach the same level of fame as retail or desktop counterparts, but the market is strong, producing games that sell millions more than some of our favorites and support entire teams of developers. Into the Dead from mobile publisher PikPok, for example, just passed 10 million downloads across iOS and Android devices, after five months on the market.

Into the Dead is an endless runner combined with a shooter, all set in the zombie apocalypse. It's free on iOS and Android, but a no-ad version of the game is available for $2 as an in-app purchase. And now for a thought experiment: If only 10 percent of players purchase the ad-free game, that's $2,000,000. Not bad for a 5-month-old.

If you want to bring Into the Dead to 10,000,001 downloads, head to the App Store or Google Play. Another PikPok game to pass 10 million downloads is Flick Kick Football. The Flick Kick series has clocked in more than 20 million downloads.

Continue reading Into the Dead, endless zombie shooter for mobile, hits 10 million

JoystiqInto the Dead, endless zombie shooter for mobile, hits 10 million originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 10 May 2013 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>10-millionandroiddownloadfree-to-playinto-the-deadiosipadiphonemobilepikpokzombiesFri, 10 May 2013 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ouya secures $15 million in funding, Bing Gordon joins board]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/ouya-secures-15-million-in-funding-bing-gordon-joins-board/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/ouya-secures-15-million-in-funding-bing-gordon-joins-board/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/ouya-secures-15-million-in-funding-bing-gordon-joins-board/#comments Ouya has picked up a new board member with some industry klout - no really, he's on Klout's board too - in the the form of former EA chief creative officer Bing Gordon. "What we really liked about Bing is that he doesn't get constrained by conventional thinking, and that's a lot about what we do at Ouya," CEO Julie Uhrman tells Joystiq. "And he also is a really big supporter of game creators, and that's been one of the key focuses of Ouya. It felt like a perfect match." Gordon will be helping the company seek out new games and promote the Ouya itself, she says.

The company has also secured $15 million in new funding. "We want to be in this for the long haul," says Uhrman. "This money will allow us to continue to support game developers as well as meet the demand that we're seeing from retailers and really gamers all over the world."

Ouya has seen higher than expected demand, she says - so high, apparently, that the company delayed the launch from June 4 to June 25 to manufacture more units - and this new funding will help "service that demand." The funding may also help Ouya expand beyond its initial launch territories, North America, Canada and the UK. Many regions have shown an interest in Ouya, she says. "We will be able to look at those regions and determine what makes sense for Ouya, and be there when we want to be there."

Continue reading Ouya secures $15 million in funding, Bing Gordon joins board

JoystiqOuya secures $15 million in funding, Bing Gordon joins board originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 May 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidbing-gordonjulie-uhrmanmobileouyaThu, 09 May 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Room unlocks 2 million sales]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/the-room-unlocks-2-million-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/the-room-unlocks-2-million-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/the-room-unlocks-2-million-sales/#comments The Room has cracked 2 million sales since its launch in September 2012. Speaking at the Game Horizon conference in the UK, Fireproof Studios Commercial Director Barry Meade revealed the new milestone. The iOS and Android puzzler hit 1 million sales in January, shortly after earning Apple's iPad Game of the Year award.

Meade put down the ex-Criterion devs' success to The Room being featured on Apple's store, and this generating word of mouth. He also noted originality as significant.

"We did not want to do a better version of someone else's game, or an update of a genre," Meade told the audience at Game Horizon. "We thought we're not doing our jobs properly if we don't add to what's out there. As a game creator that's your responsibility. If you're not doing that, if you're chasing what other people are doing, you don't deserve success because you're not showing respect to the audience."

Interior detectives can look forward to The Room getting a sequel this fall, with a free chapter due beforehand.

JoystiqThe Room unlocks 2 million sales originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 May 2013 07:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidgame-horizon-2013iosipadiphonemobileThu, 09 May 2013 07:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Ouya launch delayed to June 25, controller defect being fixed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/ouya-launch-delayed-to-june-25-controller-defect-being-fixed/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/ouya-launch-delayed-to-june-25-controller-defect-being-fixed/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/ouya-launch-delayed-to-june-25-controller-defect-being-fixed/#comments The Ouya isn't going to make its planned June 4 launch. The diminutive Android console will now launch on June 25. Ouya CEO Julie Uhrman tells Joystiq that the decision was made in order to meet high demand at retail.

"We've had incredibly positive reactions from our retail partners, and so in order to meet their greater than expected demand, we decided to shift the launch date by a couple of weeks - three weeks - which will allow us to create more units and, basically, have more units on store shelves in June."

Uhrman also addressed one of Ouya's stickier issues, notably that the controller's buttons can get stuck underneath its faceplate. The problem has already been fixed, she says, and has been implemented in production. The solution: larger button holes. "I don't know what the exact millimeter is, but we've increased the size just a little bit, so now the buttons don't stick under it. We made that change very early so all the units are being produced with those larger button holes." The corrected controllers will ship alongside Ouya's retail launch units.

We followed up with Ouya and were told that the new controllers are already being shipped to Kickstarter backers as well. When asked if those who already received a defective controller would get a replacement, a representative told us, "If backers have a problem with their controller, we will work with them to resolve the issue via customer service."

We'll have more on the Ouya's upcoming launch later today.

Continue reading Ouya launch delayed to June 25, controller defect being fixed

JoystiqOuya launch delayed to June 25, controller defect being fixed originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 May 2013 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidjulie-uhrmanmobileouyaThu, 09 May 2013 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bad Piggies adds recording, sharing to iOS, more levels for everyone]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/bad-piggies-adds-recording-sharing-to-ios-more-levels-for-ever/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/bad-piggies-adds-recording-sharing-to-ios-more-levels-for-ever/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/bad-piggies-adds-recording-sharing-to-ios-more-levels-for-ever/#comments

The Rise and Swine update for Rovio's Bad Piggies adds 15 new levels and two fresh items, suction-cup tires and spring-loaded boxing gloves. The big, bad news in this update is the addition of a recording and sharing feature for iOS devices, allowing users to record moments on a whim and share to Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. The recording feature will come to Android later, Rovio says.

The Rise and Swine update also adds a new sandbox and the Road Hog Challenge. Rise and Swine is a free update, so get up and grab it now on your download service of choice. You know what they say - the early Bird gets Angry. We don't know what that has to do with Bad Piggies, but it's true regardless.

Continue reading Bad Piggies adds recording, sharing to iOS, more levels for everyone

JoystiqBad Piggies adds recording, sharing to iOS, more levels for everyone originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 May 2013 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidbad-piggiesiosipadiphonemobileRovioThu, 09 May 2013 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tearing down an Ouya: iFixit finds it to be easily repairable]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/tearing-down-an-ouya-ifixit-finds-it-to-be-easily-repairable/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/tearing-down-an-ouya-ifixit-finds-it-to-be-easily-repairable/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/tearing-down-an-ouya-ifixit-finds-it-to-be-easily-repairable/#commentsTearing down an Ouya iFixit finds it to be easily repairable The Ouya team sent the gentlehands at iFixit a retail unit of the tiny Android console to rip apart and gauge its openness and repairability. IFixit found only one moving component, the fan, in the entire little box and remarked on the hardware's "very clean and simple layout."

The Ouya scored a 9 out of 10 on iFixit's Repairability scale, because it uses standard-head screws, no weird glues, and most of its components are easily removed and replaced. IFixit factored in the Ouya controller to its score, knocking it for having the joysticks soldered to the circuit board, meaning a broken stick may necessitate an entire board transplant.

JoystiqTearing down an Ouya: iFixit finds it to be easily repairable originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 May 2013 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidhardwareifixitmobileouyarepairteardownWed, 08 May 2013 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rovio introduces Rovio accounts: resume progress across devices]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/rovio-introduces-rovio-accounts-resume-progress-across-devices/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/rovio-introduces-rovio-accounts-resume-progress-across-devices/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/rovio-introduces-rovio-accounts-resume-progress-across-devices/#comments Angry Birds fans will soon be able to have their progress migrate across multiple devices. Enter: Rovio accounts, only available in The Croods game and the original Angry Birds (Poland and Finland) right now, but Rovio expects to roll out the functionality to all of its games eventually.

Rovio's latest financial report shows the company had a strong 2012, earning $195 million in revenue, with almost half of that coming from toy sales alone. The most recent Angry Birds game from Rovio is Angry Birds Friends, a free app on iOS and Android that integrates with Facebook.

JoystiqRovio introduces Rovio accounts: resume progress across devices originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 May 2013 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidangry-birds-friendsiosipadiphonemacmobilepcrovioWed, 08 May 2013 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony waives license fee for PlayStation Mobile developers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/sony-waives-license-fee-for-playstation-mobile-developers/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/sony-waives-license-fee-for-playstation-mobile-developers/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/sony-waives-license-fee-for-playstation-mobile-developers/#comments In its ever-vigilant push to become a heavy hitter in the independent development scene, Sony has made it free to publish games on PlayStation Mobile. Previously, developers had to pay a $99 publisher license fee, but Sony has waived that to encourage more developers to sign up.

That means the barrier of entry to bring games to PlayStation certified devices and the PlayStation Vita is now effectively zero. You know, except for programming knowledge, talent and a head for game design. You still need that stuff.

JoystiqSony waives license fee for PlayStation Mobile developers originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 May 2013 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidmobileplaystationplaystation-mobileplaystation-vitavitaWed, 08 May 2013 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[No Star Wars games in FY 2014, EA says]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/no-star-wars-games-in-fy-2014-ea-says/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/no-star-wars-games-in-fy-2014-ea-says/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/no-star-wars-games-in-fy-2014-ea-says/#comments EA won't launch a Star Wars game during its 2014 fiscal year - April 2013 to March 2014 - EA said during an investor call today. Yesterday EA announced it had signed an exclusive, multi-year deal with Disney to develop and publish games in the Star Wars universe.

EA released its FY 2013 results today, complete with expectations for 2014 that put net revenue at $3.50 billion. This is based on the launch of 11 games and 15 mobile titles, EA Labels President Frank Gibeau said. In FY 2013, EA saw a net revenue of $3.797 billion, down from $4.143 billion in 2012.

Gibeau called out the next Battlefield, FIFA, Madden, NBA Live and Need for Speed games as next-gen titles. It's notable that NBA Live is on the schedule at all, considering that series' rocky launch history.

"In fiscal 14, we will release 11 major titles across consoles, and on the PC. This includes our core sports titles," EA Labels President Frank Gibeau said, before listing the following franchises and games:

Continue reading No Star Wars games in FY 2014, EA says

JoystiqNo Star Wars games in FY 2014, EA says originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 May 2013 18:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androideaElectronic-Artsfinancialsfy-2014iosipadiphonemacmicrosoftmobilenintendopcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3Star-Warsvitawii-uxboxTue, 07 May 2013 18:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Rex Rocket zooms past funding goal, dev looks to the future]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/rex-rocket-zooms-past-funding-goal-dev-looks-to-the-future/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/rex-rocket-zooms-past-funding-goal-dev-looks-to-the-future/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/rex-rocket-zooms-past-funding-goal-dev-looks-to-the-future/#commentsRex Rocket zooms past funding goal, dev looks to the future The last week as been "pretty amazing," says developer Rob Maher. His team - composed of himself, programmer Tyler Bud and composer Nigel "Saskrotch" Shields - just got Rex Rocket funded on Kickstarter. It was a small goal compared to other Kickstarter projects, just $6,000, but to Maher it's monumental. "I mean it's kind of a dream come true for us to put our game up on Kickstarter and have it supported by all these different people, and it's really been exciting for myself and the team."

Rex Rocket draws from Maher and Bud's Nintendo-fueled childhood, taking cues from Mega Man, Metroid and Mario, telling the story of a has-been hero drawn once more into the line of fire. Now, with the project fully funded, Maher and the team can focus on the game full-time. There are still 20 days left to earn more, however, and the team has big plans, including possibly achieving another dream, seeing Rex Rocket published on a Nintendo platform. And, even now, before the Rex Rocket Kickstarter is closed, Maher is planning the team's next game, Blossom Tales.

But let's take it one thing at a time.

Gallery: Rex Rocket

Continue reading Rex Rocket zooms past funding goal, dev looks to the future

JoystiqRex Rocket zooms past funding goal, dev looks to the future originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 May 2013 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsandroidiosipadiphonekickstartermacmobilenintendopcplaystationps3rex-rocketwii-uTue, 07 May 2013 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The evolution of Morning Star's ugly-cute bad guy, the Renfield]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/05/the-evolution-of-morning-stars-ugly-cute-bad-guy-the-renfield/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/05/the-evolution-of-morning-stars-ugly-cute-bad-guy-the-renfield/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/05/the-evolution-of-morning-stars-ugly-cute-bad-guy-the-renfield/#commentsThe evolution of Morning Star's uglycute bad guy, the Renfield Morning Star, from Halo creator Alex Seropian and Seven Lights founder Tim Harris' studio, Industrial Toys, pits players against a variety of alien enemies in a hardcore FPS for mobile devices. The Renfield are a race of agile, bulldog humanoids subservient to the main conquering race, the Dust, who are vampiric monsters bent on destruction.

The Renfield take their name from Bram Stoker's Dracula and its secondary antagonist, R.M. Renfield, a psych ward patient with a penchant for consuming living organisms. In the novel, Renfield is under the control of Count Dracula, just as the Renfield in Morning Star are slaves to the Dust. Marvel artist Mike Choi designed the Renfield in Morning Star in one sketch, and from there the enemy has evolved into varying classes: sniper, trooper and "some surprises," Harris writes.

Get a good look at the Renfield on the Industrial Toys blog.

JoystiqThe evolution of Morning Star's ugly-cute bad guy, the Renfield originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 05 May 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Alex-Seropianandroidenemiesindustrial-toysiosipadiphonemobilemorning-starrenfieldtim-harrisSun, 05 May 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Realm's game design concepts explained in Kickstarter video]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/05/the-realms-game-design-concepts-explained-in-kickstarter-video/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/05/the-realms-game-design-concepts-explained-in-kickstarter-video/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/05/the-realms-game-design-concepts-explained-in-kickstarter-video/#comments
Atomhawk Design recently updated its Kickstarter page for The Realm with a new video explaining the game's design details. The video shows the game's designers elaborating on their inspirations for The Realm, including aspects of popular point-and-click adventure games the team avoided in creating the game, such as deep inventory management. Members of the Atomhawk team also describe the ways that the game's two main characters, a girl named Sarina and her golem friend Toru, interact to solve puzzles.

The Realm has 16 days left in its Kickstarter campaign to reach its goal of £195,000 ($297,000), of which the developer has currently raised £50,497 ($78,593).

JoystiqThe Realm's game design concepts explained in Kickstarter video originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 05 May 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidatomhawk-designDesign-Philosophyiosipadiphonekickstartermacmobilepcthe-realmSun, 05 May 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Shinobi, Vectorman join mobile House of the Dead: Overkill cast]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/04/shinobi-vectorman-join-mobile-house-of-the-dead-overkill-cast/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/04/shinobi-vectorman-join-mobile-house-of-the-dead-overkill-cast/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/04/shinobi-vectorman-join-mobile-house-of-the-dead-overkill-cast/#commentsShinobi, Vectorman battle zombies in mobile House of the Dead addons Sega targets 16-bit superfans with two new character-themed upgrade packs for the iOS and Android versions of its first-person zombie shooter The House of the Dead: Overkill - The Lost Reels.

The Ninja Star pack replaces the game's standard Colt gun with an unlimited supply of shuriken, resulting in gameplay that resembles an extended bonus stage from the 1987 Shinobi arcade game. The Vectorman's Ball Gun upgrade, on the other hand, switches out the minigun for Vectorman's lime-green weaponry, and adds Genesis-like particle effects to your zombie massacre.

While Shinobi's protagonist Joe Musashi has made scattered showings in Sega-published games over the years (including a cameo as an unlockable character in 2011's 3DS title Shinobi), these upgrades mark a rare appearance for Vectorman. Fans of Sega's prerendered robotic hero had their hearts broken in 2003 following the cancellation of a planned Vectorman reboot for the PlayStation 2, and the franchise has remained dormant since.

Both items are available for purchase using in-game "Ka$h," which can be earned during gameplay or via microtransactions.

JoystiqShinobi, Vectorman join mobile House of the Dead: Overkill cast originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 04 May 2013 03:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidhouse-of-the-deadhouse-of-the-dead-overkilliosipadiphonemobilesegaSat, 04 May 2013 03:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Way of the Dogg out now on XBLA, PSN and mobile 'soon']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/03/way-of-the-dogg-out-now-on-xbla-psn-and-mobile-soon/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/03/way-of-the-dogg-out-now-on-xbla-psn-and-mobile-soon/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/03/way-of-the-dogg-out-now-on-xbla-psn-and-mobile-soon/#comments
Snoop Dogg's rhythm/fighting game Way of the Dogg is now available on XBLA for 800 MS Points, which is far less than the cost of changing your name and becoming a reggae artist - believe us, we looked into it. The Elite Beat Agents-esque game is also "coming soon" to PlayStation Network, iOS and Android, according to publisher 505 Games.

In other Snoop Dogg related news, we recently found a horrible bootleg hip-hop mixtape that we bought nine years ago at a thrift store for like $0.48. Early reports indicate that it is still completely awesome.

Gallery: Way of the Dogg (5/3/13)

Continue reading Way of the Dogg out now on XBLA, PSN and mobile 'soon'

JoystiqWay of the Dogg out now on XBLA, PSN and mobile 'soon' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 May 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>505-GamesAndroidEcho-PeakiOSmicrosoftmobileplaystationps3PSNsnoop-doggsnoop-lionXBLAxboxFri, 03 May 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Carmageddon rams Android May 10, free for first day]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/03/carmageddon-rams-android-may-10-free-for-first-day/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/03/carmageddon-rams-android-may-10-free-for-first-day/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/03/carmageddon-rams-android-may-10-free-for-first-day/#comments
Stainless Games's enhanced re-release of Carmageddon swerves onto Android on May 10. That's a little later than originally planned, but when a classic game's going for free, we're not bothered. As promised in the Kickstarter campaign for Carmageddon: Reincarnation, Stainless isn't charging a cent during the racer's first 24 hours on Google Play.

The enhanced version of the 1997 mayhem maker sports slightly enhanced graphics, and touch pads that can be placed where you want on-screen.

JoystiqCarmageddon rams Android May 10, free for first day originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 May 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidcarmageddonmobilerelease-datestainless-gamesFri, 03 May 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free Angry Birds Friends app lands on iOS, Android]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/02/free-angry-birds-friends-app-lands-on-ios-android/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/02/free-angry-birds-friends-app-lands-on-ios-android/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/02/free-angry-birds-friends-app-lands-on-ios-android/#comments Angry Birds Friends - essentially Angry Birds with Facebook integration - is now available on Android and iOS. The free mobile download is compatible with the established Facebook app, letting you invite Facebook friends to play, gift power-ups to your besties, take part in weekly challenges and resume progress between platforms.

The first weekly tournament will go live this Monday, May 6. After that, new weekly tournaments will be initiated every Monday, with new levels also being added every week. So until then, consider this practice time for the real thing - because friendship is all about proving you're better than the other person.

Gallery: Angry Birds Friends

JoystiqFree Angry Birds Friends app lands on iOS, Android originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 May 2013 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidangry-birdsangry-birds-friendsiosipadiphonemobilerovioThu, 02 May 2013 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Minecraft: Pocket Edition sells 10 million, Mojang plans major additions]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/minecraft-pocket-edition-sells-10-million-mojang-plans-major-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/minecraft-pocket-edition-sells-10-million-mojang-plans-major-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/minecraft-pocket-edition-sells-10-million-mojang-plans-major-a/#commentsMinecraft Pocket Edition sells 10 million, Mojang plans major additions Mojang announced that the mobile version of its runaway hit, Minecraft, surpassed 10 million units in sales, and revealed that it will add several major features to the game in the coming months.

Minecraft: Pocket Edition's forthcoming updates range from matters of convenience (players will no longer have to exit to the main menu in order to change settings) to experimental additions that, initially, will be available exclusively to players using high-end mobile devices. Once these unnamed features are sufficiently tested, they will be rolled out in another update for all players.

Mojang is also working on Minecraft Realms, a cloud-based multiplayer service that allows players to collaborate on shared projects without needing to be online at the same time. Minecraft Realms will be launched as a subscription-based mode that can be unlocked in Minecraft: Pocket Edition via an in-app purchase.

Mojang hopes to launch its next Minecraft: Pocket Edition update by the end of May.

JoystiqMinecraft: Pocket Edition sells 10 million, Mojang plans major additions originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 May 2013 21:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidiosipadiphoneMinecraftminecraft-pocket-editionminecraft-realmsmobilemojangsalesWed, 01 May 2013 21:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Silent Enemy teaser designs some bullies]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/silent-enemy-teaser-designs-some-bullies/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/silent-enemy-teaser-designs-some-bullies/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/silent-enemy-teaser-designs-some-bullies/#comments
The next project from Papo & Yo developer Minority, Silent Enemy, tackles another sensitive topic: bullying. Many of the developers were bullied and that history affected the design and development of SIlent Enemy.

JoystiqSilent Enemy teaser designs some bullies originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 May 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidiosipadiphoneminoritymobileouyapcplaystation-4ps4silent-enemyWed, 01 May 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[May the Fourth be an excuse for Star Wars Pinball discounts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/may-the-fourth-be-an-excuse-for-star-wars-pinball-discounts/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/may-the-fourth-be-an-excuse-for-star-wars-pinball-discounts/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/may-the-fourth-be-an-excuse-for-star-wars-pinball-discounts/#commentsMay 4th discounts on Star Wars pinball tables Every year, we forget that people celebrate Star Wars-related stuff on May 4, thanks to a cute pun, and every year we smile a bit when we remember. This year, Zen Studios is marking the occasion with a sale on Star Wars Pinball, marking the game down 50% in all of its multifarious versions.

Starting yesterday, and through May 7, Star Wars Pinball as part of Pinball FX2 on Xbox is 400 Microsoft Points; Star Wars Pinball for Zen Pinball 2 is €4.99 for European PS Plus members; and the iOS, Android, Mac App Store, and new Kindle Fire HD versions are all 99 cents.

There have been some ups and downs for Star Wars recently - new owners, and new movies, but LucasArts is gone. Enjoy this game, then, as it's likely to be a while before we see more Star Wars games.

Continue reading May the Fourth be an excuse for Star Wars Pinball discounts

JoystiqMay the Fourth be an excuse for Star Wars Pinball discounts originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 May 2013 10:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidiosiphonemacmicrosoftmobilepinball-fx-2playstationps3star-wars-pinballxboxzen-pinball-2Wed, 01 May 2013 10:20:00 EST<![CDATA['Soul Fjord' is Airtight's next game, Ouya exclusive]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/soul-fjord-is-airtights-next-game-ouya-exclusive/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/soul-fjord-is-airtights-next-game-ouya-exclusive/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/soul-fjord-is-airtights-next-game-ouya-exclusive/#comments
The next game from designer Kim Swift and Airtight Games (Quantum Conundrum) will be Soul Fjord. Fusing '70s funk with Norse mythology, the game stars Magnus Jones, an afro-sporting Viking, who makes his way through procedurally generated dungeons and engages in rhythm-based combat.

And if you were wondering: yes, this is Airtight's Ouya-exclusive project that was announced earlier this year. Swift referred to it as a "console exclusive" when speaking to IGN, so it's possible that mobile and PC ports are still on the table.

A developer diary was released alongside the announcement. At the very least, the eclectic cultural mash-up makes for interesting aesthetics, though there isn't much to speak of in terms of gameplay.

The Ouya is slated to officially launch on June 4, while Soul Fjord is "coming soon."

Gallery: Soul Fjord

Joystiq'Soul Fjord' is Airtight's next game, Ouya exclusive originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Apr 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>airtight-gamesandroidmobileouyasoul-fjordMon, 29 Apr 2013 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ecco the Dolphin 'Big Blue' Kickstarter fails, trying again with 'Little Blue']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/ecco-the-dolphin-big-blue-kickstarter-fails-trying-again-with/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/ecco-the-dolphin-big-blue-kickstarter-fails-trying-again-with/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/ecco-the-dolphin-big-blue-kickstarter-fails-trying-again-with/#comments Ecco the Dolphin 'Big Blue' Kickstarter fails, trying again with 'Little Blue'Oceanic adventure game Big Blue, put together by members of the team that made Ecco the Dolphin, has failed its Kickstarter bid. The game raised just under $56,000, falling well short of its $665,000 goal.

Creator Ed Annunziata isn't giving up though, and has already announced plans to launch a second Kickstarter campaign.

Annunziata admitted that "it is hard to get people to see how compelling a game like the Big Blue will be," and revealed plans for Little Blue, which will essentially serve as a "slice" of the original project. Little Blue will require a "much lower" level of funding, and should serve to properly convey Big Blue's full potential to players. The game will be less ambitious, featuring significantly fewer environments and creatures, though one of the two playable creatures is promised to be a dolphin.

Assuming its funding is successful, Little Blue will be launched for free and contain a link to forward players to another Kickstarter for the full-fledged Big Blue. For the moment, the launch date for the Little Blue Kickstarter is still murky.

JoystiqEcco the Dolphin 'Big Blue' Kickstarter fails, trying again with 'Little Blue' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Apr 2013 17:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidbig-blueiosipadiphonekickstarterlittle-bluemacmobilepcMon, 29 Apr 2013 17:36:00 EST<![CDATA[Rex Rocket Kickstarter looks pretty mega, man]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/rex-rocket-kickstarter-looks-pretty-mega-man/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/rex-rocket-kickstarter-looks-pretty-mega-man/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/rex-rocket-kickstarter-looks-pretty-mega-man/#comments
What's that, another pixel-art game inspired by the likes of Mega Man and Metroid on Kickstarter? And why not! Rex Rocket tells the story of ... Rex Rocket, a war hero aboard the "epic star cruiser" SS Montana. His days of combat over, he's now saddled with the mundane job of ferrying a bunch of scientists and "Terra-Oozlings" to the Washington solar system. Naturally, things don't go according to plan. Long story short, Rex soon finds himself battling escaped Oozlings, haywire robots and the SS Montana's damaged computer.

The game features plenty of weapons, exploration, puzzles, platforming, a sweet chiptune soundtrack and lots of enemies. Developers Rob Maher and Tyler Bud are seeking $6,000 to fund the project, with a planned release in January 2014. Rex Rocket is guaranteed on PC, though the duo hopes to port it to pretty much everything, including Mac, Wii U, 3DS, Vita, Xbox Live Indie Games, iOS and Ouya.

JoystiqRex Rocket Kickstarter looks pretty mega, man originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Apr 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsandroidiosipadiphonekickstartermacmicrosoftmobilenintendopcplaystationplaystation-vitarex-rocketvitawii-uxboxMon, 29 Apr 2013 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Command boldly sets launch date for this Thursday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/star-command-thursday-may-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/star-command-thursday-may-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/star-command-thursday-may-2/#comments

Star Command is finally ready to explore the stars this Thursday, May 2, on iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch. Developer Warballoon notes the Android version is set to leave space dock next, followed by PC.

The ambitious mobile project first appeared on federation sensors in 2011 when it created a Kickstarter to up its budget and test the waters for an Android port.

Justin Coombs, designer and art director at the Boulder-based developer, told us at the time, "We don't want Star Command to be a good mobile game, we want it to be just a great game, in the conversation with PC and console releases."

The game's Kickstarter also occurred in the pre-Double Fine era, with some harsh lessons learned about crowdsource financing.

A 13-minute preview of Star Command was posted late last year, but it's now only a few short days until the game is finally ready to beam to iOS devices.

JoystiqStar Command boldly sets launch date for this Thursday originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Apr 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidiosipadiphonemobilestar-commandWarballoonMon, 29 Apr 2013 09:00:00 EST