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[Bit.Trip games 25-to-75% off on Steam until May 20]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/bit-trip-games-25-to-75-off-on-steam-until-may-20/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/bit-trip-games-25-to-75-off-on-steam-until-may-20/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/bit-trip-games-25-to-75-off-on-steam-until-may-20/#comments Nearly everything in Gaijin Games' esteemed Bit.Trip series has been marked down on Steam, from now until Monday, May 20.

For instance: Bit.Trip Collection, which includes Bit.Trip Beat, Bit.Trip Runner, Bit.Trip Core and Bit.Trip Void, has had its price cut by 75% and is now just $11.98. Likewise, all of those games can be purchased individually at a discounted price of $2.49. Even last year's gorgeous Runner 2: Future Legend of Rhythm Alien has had its price dropped to less than $12 - we recommend gettin' while the gettin's good, as our very southern mom would say.

JoystiqBit.Trip games 25-to-75% off on Steam until May 20 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 May 2013 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bit-tripbit-trip-beatbit-trip-coreBit-Trip-RunnerBit-Trip-VoidGaijin-Gameslinuxmacpcrunner-2runner-2-future-legend-of-rhythm-aliensaleSteamThu, 09 May 2013 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bit.Trip Saga coming to 3DS eShop December 20 for $15]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/08/bit-trip-saga-coming-to-3ds-eshop-december-20-for-15/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/08/bit-trip-saga-coming-to-3ds-eshop-december-20-for-15/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/08/bit-trip-saga-coming-to-3ds-eshop-december-20-for-15/#comments Aksys Games is bringing Bit.Trip Saga, the Gaijin Games 3DS compilation that hit retail last year, to Nintendo's eShop on December 20. What's more, the collection will cost $14.99, saving players a whole bunch of dollars in addition to the convenience of the compilation being downloadable.

Bit.Trip Saga includes Bit.Trip Beat, Bit.Trip Core, Bit.Trip Void, Bit.Trip Runner, Bit.Trip Fate and Bit.Trip Flux. If our math is correct, that's only a couple dollars per game in the six-game bundle. What a deal!

Gallery: Bit.Trip Saga (3DS)

JoystiqBit.Trip Saga coming to 3DS eShop December 20 for $15 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 08 Dec 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsAksys-GamesBeatBit-Trip-Beatbit-trip-corebit-trip-fatebit-trip-fluxBit-Trip-Runnerbit-trip-sagaBit-Trip-Voidgaijin-gamesnintendoSat, 08 Dec 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Humble Bundle for Android (and PC, Mac, and Linux) bundles Bit.Trip Beat, Fieldrunners and more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/15/humble-bundle-for-android-3-bundles-bit-trip-beat-fieldrunners/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/15/humble-bundle-for-android-3-bundles-bit-trip-beat-fieldrunners/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/15/humble-bundle-for-android-3-bundles-bit-trip-beat-fieldrunners/#comments Humble Bundle for Android 3 and your computer too
Haven't bought Bit.Trip Beat in a while? Now you can buy it again, this time on Android! It's part of the Humble Bundle for Android 3, along with Fieldrunners, SpaceChem, Uplink, and - for purchases above the average price - Spirits. Uplink and SpaceChem require tablets, but you can play the rest on your phone.

You're not out of luck if you lack a tablet, or even if you're without an Android phone. Even though it's an Android bundle, you'll also get the games on Windows, Mac, and Linux as well, along with all their soundtracks.

JoystiqHumble Bundle for Android (and PC, Mac, and Linux) bundles Bit.Trip Beat, Fieldrunners and more originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Aug 2012 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidBeatBit-Trip-Beatfieldrunnershumble-bundle-for-androidhumble-indie-bundlemobilespacechemspiritsuplinkWed, 15 Aug 2012 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[The Potato Sack Reunion Tour kicks off on Steam today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/12/the-potato-sack-reunion-tour-kicks-off-on-steam-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/12/the-potato-sack-reunion-tour-kicks-off-on-steam-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/12/the-potato-sack-reunion-tour-kicks-off-on-steam-today/#comments The Potato Sack Reunion Tour kicks off on Steam todayLast April, Valve launched a guerrilla marketing effort for Portal 2 and promotion on select indie titles. This week Valve remembers its ARG campaign with the Potato Sack Reunion sale, which knocks half off the price of 13 individual indie titles.

Games include Super Meat Boy, The Ball, Cogs, Amnesia: The Dark Descent and many more. You can either buy each individually for half-off, or grab the whole bundle for $20.

JoystiqThe Potato Sack Reunion Tour kicks off on Steam today originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Jun 2012 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1-2-3-kick-it-drop-that-beat-like-an-ugly-babyAaaaaAAaaaAAAaaAAAAaAAAAAamnesia-the-dark-descentAudiosurfBeatBit-Trip-Beatcogsdefense-grid-the-awakeningkilling-floormacpcpotato-sackrushsteamsuper-meat-boythe-ballthe-wonderful-end-of-the-worldtoki-torivalveTue, 12 Jun 2012 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Bit.Trip Saga and Complete ride a Rising Star to Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/bit-trip-saga-and-complete-ride-a-rising-star-to-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/bit-trip-saga-and-complete-ride-a-rising-star-to-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/bit-trip-saga-and-complete-ride-a-rising-star-to-europe/#comments Bit.Trip Saga for 3DS and Bit.Trip Complete for Wii came out in September here in North America, collecting all six WiiWare Bit.Trip games into convenient new formats and, in the case of Complete, adding new challenges. Not that there wasn't enough challenge to be found already.

For those of you in Europe looking for a more portable, three-dimensional and/or expanded Bit.Trip experience, Rising Star Games has signed on to publish Saga and Complete in that region, in the first quarter of 2012.

Complete on Wii will include a soundtrack sampler, just as it does in North America. It's a nice way to kick back and relax when not playing the games -- you certainly won't do any kicking back while playing them. Maybe some kicking.

Gallery: Bit.Trip Saga (3DS)

Gallery: Bit.Trip Complete (Wii)

Continue reading Bit.Trip Saga and Complete ride a Rising Star to Europe

JoystiqBit.Trip Saga and Complete ride a Rising Star to Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Nov 2011 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsBeatBit-Trip-Beatbit-trip-completebit-trip-sagadsgaijin-gamesnintendoq1-2012release-daterising-star-gameswiiThu, 03 Nov 2011 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[NYC Museum of Modern Art to co-host 'Arcade' event with Kill Screen]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/01/nyc-museum-of-modern-art-to-co-host-arcade-event-with-kill-scr/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/01/nyc-museum-of-modern-art-to-co-host-arcade-event-with-kill-scr/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/01/nyc-museum-of-modern-art-to-co-host-arcade-event-with-kill-scr/#comments It seems the "Games as Art" debate is over, as New York City's Museum of Modern Art is co-hosting a game-centric event later this month with haute gaming mag Kill Screen. Titled "Arcade," the one-night soiree on July 27 features several great indie games (Bit.Trip Beat, Canabalt, Limbo, and "a new motion-based Kinect project" from current Harmonix employees Ryan Challinor and Matt Boch, as seen here). The games will be playable throughout various parts of the museum, including the MoMA's gorgeous sculpture garden. That's where we'll be hanging out, in case that wasn't clear.

You may be wondering how the folks at Kill Screen finagled a gaming night at one of the world's most famous art museums, and we were too. It turns out that the event is part of MoMA's "Talk to Me" exhibit, which explores "the communication between people and objects." Video games seem like a perfect fit, no?

If the incredible location and selection of great games weren't enough to convince you, tickets are just $16 in advance and $20 at the door, which entitles you to "an exclusive viewing, a cocktail reception, a tote bag," as well as the aforementioned opportunity to play games at the MoMA. We'll also be there in our sharpest outfit handing out exaggerated high fives, so keep an eye out!

Update: This post originally pegged Ryan Challinor and Matt Boch as former Harmonix employees, when in fact they are both still employed at the studio. Sorry guys!

JoystiqNYC Museum of Modern Art to co-host 'Arcade' event with Kill Screen originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Jul 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcadebit-trip-beatcanabaltkill-screenkinectlimbomacmatt-bochmicrosoftmobilemomamuseum-of-modern-artnew-york-citynintendonycpcryan-challinorwiixboxFri, 01 Jul 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bit. Trip collections come to 3DS and Wii September 13]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/24/bit-trip-collections-come-to-3ds-and-wii-september-13/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/24/bit-trip-collections-come-to-3ds-and-wii-september-13/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/24/bit-trip-collections-come-to-3ds-and-wii-september-13/#comments Bit. Trip Saga, the 3D-ized Bit.Trip compilation for 3DS, will arrive in stores on September 13. But if you'd rather play the games on the big screen -- and especially if you didn't buy all of them on Wii already -- there's another collection for you. Bit.Trip Complete collects all six WiiWare games on a single Wii disc, with a generous pile of extras.

120 new "challenges" have been added to the games in Bit.Trip Complete, along with new difficulty modes and leaderboards. In addition, there's an "audio gallery" of new songs, demo versions, and fan remixes of the series' signature sounds. Other bonuses include image and video galleries and a bundled soundtrack CD.

It'll be up to you how you want to experience these games -- handheld and in 3D, or on your TV with bonuses. You could always buy both in order to have the most options as to how you want to be mesmerized and frustrated.

Continue reading Bit. Trip collections come to 3DS and Wii September 13

JoystiqBit. Trip collections come to 3DS and Wii September 13 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Jun 2011 19:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsaksys-gamesBeatBit-Trip-Beatbit-trip-completebit-trip-sagadsgaijin-gamesnintendoq3-2011release-datewiiFri, 24 Jun 2011 19:10:00 EST<![CDATA[The indie origins of the Portal 2 'Potato Sack' ARG]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/25/the-indie-origins-of-the-portal-2-potato-sack-arg/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/25/the-indie-origins-of-the-portal-2-potato-sack-arg/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/25/the-indie-origins-of-the-portal-2-potato-sack-arg/#comments For fans, the recent Portal 2 ARG began with the discovery of unexpected, hidden messages within the "Potato Sack" bundle of indie games. As it happens, the project's development also started with a mysterious missive -- to the developers of those games.

"Dude, it was so rad," Alex Neuse, CEO of Bit.Trip Beat developer Gaijin Games told Joystiq. "[Valve] contacted a bunch of independent developers -- like a whole bunch. They contacted a bunch of us and said, 'Hey, we're thinking of doing something wacky up here at Valve, and we were wondering if you'd be interested in coming up here and talking to us about it.' And that was about it."

Gallery: Bit.Trip Beat (Portal cameo)

Continue reading The indie origins of the Portal 2 'Potato Sack' ARG

JoystiqThe indie origins of the Portal 2 'Potato Sack' ARG originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Apr 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alex-neuseargbit-trip-beatgaijin-gamesmacpcportal-2potato-fools-daypotato-sacksteamvalveMon, 25 Apr 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Steam offering 13 indie games (including Super Meat Boy!) for 75% off]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/02/steam-offering-13-indie-games-including-super-meat-boy-for-75/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/02/steam-offering-13-indie-games-including-super-meat-boy-for-75/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/02/steam-offering-13-indie-games-including-super-meat-boy-for-75/#comments Rather than go the "make up a fake game/product/service" route that so much of the game industry takes on April Fool's Day, Valve instead put together an indie bundle and heavily discounted it, making those who didn't buy it fools in the process. It's what we like to call "the old switcheroo."

Including Joystiq Game of the Year awardee Super Meat Boy, terror simulation Amnesia: The Dark Descent, and Gaijin Games' synesthetic masterpiece Bit.Trip Beat, "The Potato Sack" drops all 13 games by 75 percent off their normal asking prices (or 50 percent when purchased a la carte). Considering that all of those games would normally cost around $160 if you bought them individually, you're looking at a savings of approximately $120. Also, you'll do untold wonders for your invaluable indie cred. And hey, if none of that does it for you, there's a potato hat for Team Fortress 2 included.

Also of note, each of the bundle's games have been modified with a potato-themed update -- head to the gallery below for a look at Super Meat Boy and Bit.Trip Beat's starchy additions.

Update: Added AaAaAA!! -- A Reckless Disregard for Gravity to the gallery, courtesy of NoodleGunshot.

[Thanks Joseph Leakey!]

Gallery: Indie April Fools 2011

JoystiqSteam offering 13 indie games (including Super Meat Boy!) for 75% off originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 02 Apr 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>april-foolsapril-fools-2011bit-trip-beatgaijin-gamesmacpcsteamsuper-meat-boyteam-meatSat, 02 Apr 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[NintendoWare Weekly: Doc Clock, Glory Days]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/17/nintendoware-weekly-doc-clock-glory-days/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/17/nintendoware-weekly-doc-clock-glory-days/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/17/nintendoware-weekly-doc-clock-glory-days/#comments Today, another weird PC indie finds its way to WiiWare: the time-traveling, junk-inventing adventure Doc Clock and the Toasted Sandwich of Time. There's also a city-building Qix clone ported from iOS, and a returning WiiWare demo for Bit. Trip Beat.

DSiWare features Animal Boxing, the second retail title from Gammick Entertainment to move over to a DSiWare download. There's also a surprisingly cute card game about driving competitors to bankruptcy!

Gallery: Doc Clock: The Toasted Sandwich of Time (WiiWare)

Gallery: The Seller (DSiWare)

Continue reading NintendoWare Weekly: Doc Clock, Glory Days

JoystiqNintendoWare Weekly: Doc Clock, Glory Days originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Jan 2011 10:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alien-puzzle-adventureanimal-boxingbit-trip-beatdoc-clockdoc-clock-the-toasted-sandwich-of-timedsdsiwareglory-days-tactical-defensenintendonintendoware-weeklythe-sellerurbanixwiiwiiwareMon, 17 Jan 2011 10:08:00 EST<![CDATA[Bit. Trip Beat destroys Steam users' self-esteem tomorrow]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/01/bit-trip-beat-steam-pc-mac/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/01/bit-trip-beat-steam-pc-mac/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/01/bit-trip-beat-steam-pc-mac/#commentsEven if you don't have a Wii or an iPhone, chances are you still have a computer, which means that starting tomorrow you'll have very little excuse for never having tried Bit. Trip Beat. Gaijin Games announced that the first game in its six-part series, a sort of hypnotic rhythm/chiptunes Pong adventure (also an absurdly, wonderfully difficult game), will be released on Steam tomorrow for both Windows and Mac, with upgrades over the original including online leaderboards, easy mode, and achievements.

You'll be able to play the Steam version using a keyboard, mouse, gamepad, or even (with a planned update) the Sixense TrueMotion thing. The regular price for the Steam release is $9.99, but it's a dollar off through November 9.

Continue reading Bit. Trip Beat destroys Steam users' self-esteem tomorrow

JoystiqBit. Trip Beat destroys Steam users' self-esteem tomorrow originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 01 Nov 2010 18:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Beatbit-tripBit-Trip-Beatgaijin-gamespcrelease-datesteamMon, 01 Nov 2010 18:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Bit. Trip Beat descends to .99 price on iPhone and iPad this weekend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/08/bit-trip-beat-descends-to-99-price-on-iphone-and-ipad-this-wee/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/08/bit-trip-beat-descends-to-99-price-on-iphone-and-ipad-this-wee/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/08/bit-trip-beat-descends-to-99-price-on-iphone-and-ipad-this-wee/#commentsBit. Trip Beat may not be easy, but this weekend, it's going to be really easy to buy. Publisher Namco has marked down both the iPhone and iPad versions of the WiiWare hit to 99 cents for the weekend. Sure, it's portable, but play it at home -- you don't want strangers to see you having a tantrum.

JoystiqBit. Trip Beat descends to .99 price on iPhone and iPad this weekend originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Oct 2010 19:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Beatbit-trip-beatgaijin-gamesiphonemobilenamco-bandaiFri, 08 Oct 2010 19:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Bit.Trip Beat hits iPhone, iPad on Sept. 30]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/28/bit-trip-beat-hits-iphone-ipad-on-sept-30/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/28/bit-trip-beat-hits-iphone-ipad-on-sept-30/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/28/bit-trip-beat-hits-iphone-ipad-on-sept-30/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The long anticipated release of Gaijin Games' Bit.Trip Beat on the iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch is this Thursday, September 30. The glowing-finger-enabled dev Alex Neuse (seen above) announced as much with a toothy grin via the Gaijin blog this afternoon -- he later told us via email that the game will run $4.99 on iPhone/iPod Touch and $6.99 on iPad. Additionally, DLC will be available on day one, as will Game Center support.

Aside from new levels and an HD up-res of the graphics, the game will also be getting multiplayer support on iPhone/iPad. Take a peek at the gallery below and join us in rapt anticipation for Thursday morning, won't you?

Gallery: Bit.Trip Beat (iPhone/iPad)

JoystiqBit.Trip Beat hits iPhone, iPad on Sept. 30 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 28 Sep 2010 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alex-neuseapp-storeBeatBit-Trip-Beatgaijin-gamesipadmobileq4-2010release-dateTue, 28 Sep 2010 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gaijin Games: Bit.Trip Beat demo helped get sales 'on par with projections']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/10/gaijin-games-bit-trip-beat-demo-helped-get-sales-on-par-with-p/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/10/gaijin-games-bit-trip-beat-demo-helped-get-sales-on-par-with-p/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/10/gaijin-games-bit-trip-beat-demo-helped-get-sales-on-par-with-p/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Try before you buy. It's a simple concept, and it's been a key element in marketing games this console generation -- at least on platforms that aren't WiiWare. But Nintendo did give demos a chance once upon a time ago and Gaijin Games' Bit.Trip Beat was one of five titles consumers could try free of cost. According to Gaijin Games, it helped.

Alex Neuse, CEO of Gaijin Games, told Joystiq that when the "demo was active," his company "started to see sales more on par with our projections." We've heard the same WiiWare story over and over again from developers and publishers: Nintendo doesn't promote; many Wii consoles aren't hooked up to the internet; nobody is buying these games. It's interesting that something as small as a playable demo could affect sales in such a positive manner.

"I think this is because Bit.Trip Beat is the type of game that people really have to play to understand," Neuse said in regards to the success of his demo. He went on to say that "a screenshot just doesn't do it justice" and that he's "sad to see that the demo program has ended."

We are, too -- WiiWare developers work very hard to create games and support the platform. It's gotta be frustrating when there's no reciprocation.

JoystiqGaijin Games: Bit.Trip Beat demo helped get sales 'on par with projections' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 10 Sep 2010 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alex-neuseBeatBit-Trip-BeatdemonintendowiiwiiwareFri, 10 Sep 2010 18:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Bit.Trip Beat iPad preview: move to keep the beat]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/09/bit-trip-beat-ipad-preview-move-to-keep-the-beat/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/09/bit-trip-beat-ipad-preview-move-to-keep-the-beat/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/09/bit-trip-beat-ipad-preview-move-to-keep-the-beat/#comments The problem I've always had with Bit.Trip Beat is that you could only control it by twisting the Wiimote. It's not the most accurate control scheme and, since the game is largely built on the player's ability to quickly and precisely move from one place to another, it was one tough experience. However, on the iPad, it's far more responsive -- sporting both touch-based and tilt-based controls in the final product, it was quickly evident that this was the best way to play the game.

Gallery: Bit.Trip Beat (iPhone/iPad)

Continue reading Bit.Trip Beat iPad preview: move to keep the beat

JoystiqBit.Trip Beat iPad preview: move to keep the beat originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Sep 2010 20:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Beatbit-trip-beatgaijin-gamesmobileThu, 09 Sep 2010 20:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Bit.Trip Beat DLC on iPhone/iPad will be Bit.Trip Void tracks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/05/bit-trip-beat-dlc-on-iphone-ipad-will-be-bit-trip-void-tracks/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/05/bit-trip-beat-dlc-on-iphone-ipad-will-be-bit-trip-void-tracks/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/05/bit-trip-beat-dlc-on-iphone-ipad-will-be-bit-trip-void-tracks/#commentsFiled under: , ,

You know how we told you about DLC for the iPhone and iPad versions of Bit.Trip Beat a few days back? During an appointment with developer Gaijin Games here at PAX, CEO and designer Alex Neuse confirmed the exact nature of the DLC tracks: they're Bit.Trip Void songs!

He informed Joystiq that the tracks weren't actually being developed by Gaijin Games, but were instead being crafted by the iPhone/iPad version's publisher, Namco-Bandai. Neuse is looking forward to trying the new tracks, as you'd imagine -- it's not every day you have an opportunity to be stumped by your own game, you know?

Gallery: Bit.Trip Beat (iPhone/iPad)

JoystiqBit.Trip Beat DLC on iPhone/iPad will be Bit.Trip Void tracks originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 05 Sep 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alex-neuseBeatbit-trip-beatgaijin-gamesmobilenintendopaxpax-2010pax-prime-2010wiiwiiwareSun, 05 Sep 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[iPhone Bit.Trip Beat has new levels, multiplayer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/iphone-bit-trip-beat-has-new-levels-multiplayer/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/iphone-bit-trip-beat-has-new-levels-multiplayer/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/iphone-bit-trip-beat-has-new-levels-multiplayer/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The iOS version of Bit.Trip Beat won't be a simple port of Gaijin Games' WiiWare debut. It has a couple of new features that may convince even the few people who completed the game to buy it again.

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

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

Gallery: Bit.Trip Beat (iPhone/iPad)


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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BeatBit-Trip-BeatGaijin-Gamesiphonemobilenamco-bandainamco-networksThu, 02 Sep 2010 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Bit.Trip Beat bouncing to iPhone]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/bit-trip-beat-bouncing-to-iphone/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/bit-trip-beat-bouncing-to-iphone/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/bit-trip-beat-bouncing-to-iphone/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Gaijin Games' retro-synaesthetic Bit.Trip series is no longer a WiiWare exclusive. The developer announced that it has partnered with Namco Bandai to release an iPhone and iPad version of Bit.Trip Beat. It seems likely that the iPhone game will employ the tilt controls used to move the paddle in the Wii version, but that wasn't detailed in the brief, enthusiastic announcement -- and neither was a release date.

We're checking with Gaijin Games to see when you'll be able to fail repeatedly to complete stage 2 on the go.

JoystiqBit.Trip Beat bouncing to iPhone originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Jun 2010 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Beatbit-tripbit-trip-beate3-2010gaijin-gamesipadiphonemobilenamco-bandaiFri, 18 Jun 2010 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Take your wall on a Bit.Trip with vinyl wall graphics]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/19/take-your-wall-on-a-bit-trip-with-vinyl-wall-graphics/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/19/take-your-wall-on-a-bit-trip-with-vinyl-wall-graphics/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/19/take-your-wall-on-a-bit-trip-with-vinyl-wall-graphics/#commentsAre you enjoying this week's WiiWare release, Bit.Trip Runner? Would you like it even more if it were non-interactive, huge, and stuck to your wall? LTL Prints, who offers vinyl wall graphics based on Jet Set Radio Future, Dragon's Lair, Super Meat Boy and more, is now selling a line based on the Bit.Trip series and Gaijin Games' iconic, blocky Commander Video character. The vinyl prints range from the easily recognizable (Commander Video himself) to the abstract (a set of rectangular "beats" as seen in Bit.Trip Beat, and simple icons representing the first three games).

The prints come in a variety of sizes, from one foot long ("laptop size") up to seven, so finding space for some Bit.Trip artwork is significantly easier than beating a Bit.Trip game.

JoystiqTake your wall on a Bit.Trip with vinyl wall graphics originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 May 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Aksys-Gamesbit-tripbit-trip-beatBit-Trip-Runnercommander-videogaijin-gamesltl-printsNintendoRunnerwall-artwall-graphicsWiiwiiwareWed, 19 May 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Best of the Rest: Ludwig's Picks of 2009]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/01/best-of-the-rest-ludwigs-picks-of-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/01/best-of-the-rest-ludwigs-picks-of-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/01/best-of-the-rest-ludwigs-picks-of-2009/#commentsSilent Hill: Shattered Memories
I mocked this "re-imagining" of Silent Hill when it was first announced. I thought Harry Mason had become an older, life-hewn Harry Potter and considered the town's frosty makeover as nothing short of sacrilege. But an encounter with the game at E3 2009 (and with candid producer Tomm Hulett) quickly changed my mind. While the game departs significantly from the franchise's known lore, it retains and streamlines much of what made Silent Hill stand out against games like Resident Evil. Encased in the game's frigid atmosphere, you'll experience a sense of bewilderment that, if you've been playing these games for a long time, you will not have felt in years. Indeed, the best surprises prey on those of us who think we know everything about Silent Hill.

Continue reading Best of the Rest: Ludwig's Picks of 2009

JoystiqBest of the Rest: Ludwig's Picks of 2009 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Jan 2010 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best-of-the-rest-2009bit-trip-beatdirt-2house-of-the-dead-overkillMicrosoftninja-gaiden-sigma-2Nintendopsnratchet-and-clank-a-crack-in-timered-faction-guerrillaresident-evil-5shattersilent-hill-shattered-memoriestrials-hdWiiwiiwarexblaXbox-360Fri, 01 Jan 2010 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Best of the Rest: JC's picks of 2009]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/01/best-of-the-rest-jcs-picks-of-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/01/best-of-the-rest-jcs-picks-of-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/01/best-of-the-rest-jcs-picks-of-2009/#commentsMuramasa: The Demon Blade
Muramasa appealed to me in a way that Odin Sphere didn't, thanks to an emphasis on combo-heavy sword action instead of planting and whatever. And the RPG elements that are left, like the sword upgrades and cooking, are not only fun, but simple enough that I can get right back into the game after a long break and still know what is going on.

Also, I don't mean to be shallow, but the fact that Muramasa is the most beautiful game of 2009 helps me be positive about it.

Continue reading Best of the Rest: JC's picks of 2009

JoystiqBest of the Rest: JC's picks of 2009 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Jan 2010 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5th-cellbest-of-the-rest-2009bit-trip-beatcanabaltcapybarademons-soulsDSGrand-Theft-Auto-Chinatown-Warsignition-entertainmentindies-zeromight-and-magic-clash-of-heroesmuramasa-the-demon-bladenamco-bandainew-super-mario-bros-wiiNintendoNintendo-SPD-Group-No.1phantasy-star-zeroretro-game-challengeRhythmrhythm-heavenscribblenautssegaspace-invaders-extreme-2the-legend-of-zelda-spirit-tracksubisoftvanillawareWiixseedFri, 01 Jan 2010 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[NintendoWare Weekly: WiiWare demos, Pokemon Rumble, Indiana Jones' Greatest Adventures]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/16/nintendoware-weekly-wiiware-demos-pokemon-rumble-indiana-jone/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/16/nintendoware-weekly-wiiware-demos-pokemon-rumble-indiana-jone/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/16/nintendoware-weekly-wiiware-demos-pokemon-rumble-indiana-jone/#commentsThis week, we get our first taste of Nintendo's new WiiWare demos. Surprisingly, it didn't take Nintendo that long to flip the switch for North America, considering the company revealed the long-overdue feature -- and day-one annoyance -- only earlier this month. And on top of the free trial versions of select WiiWare titles (five total this week!), there are also two new Virtual Console titles to enjoy, as well as three new DSiWare games. Hit the break for the full list.

Continue reading NintendoWare Weekly: WiiWare demos, Pokemon Rumble, Indiana Jones' Greatest Adventures

JoystiqNintendoWare Weekly: WiiWare demos, Pokemon Rumble, Indiana Jones' Greatest Adventures originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2d-boyaksys-gamesarcade-bowlingart-styleart-style-digidrivebit-trip-beatcapcomdemosdigidrivedsiwareffccffcc-my-life-as-a-darklordfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-crystal-chroniclesgaijin-gamesindiana-jonesindiana-jones-greatest-adventuresmy-life-as-a-darklordNintendonintendoware-weeklynyxquestover-the-topover-the-top-gamespokemon-rumblerobot-rescueskee-ballsnesstreet-fighterstreet-fighter-2street-fighter-iiteyonvirtual-consoleWiiwiiwarewiiware-demosworld-of-gooMon, 16 Nov 2009 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Give thanks for Bit.Trip Void on November 23]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/05/give-thanks-for-bit-trip-void-on-november-23/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/05/give-thanks-for-bit-trip-void-on-november-23/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/05/give-thanks-for-bit-trip-void-on-november-23/#commentsGaijin Games has announced a release date for the third game in its abstract, chiptune-infused Bit.Trip series. Bit.Trip: Void, which involves using the Nunchuk's analog stick to absorb and/or avoid dots based on color, will arrive in North America on November 23. "That's right, the week of Thanksgiving!" the announcement notes. "Total sweetness in the village." Like Beat and Core, it'll cost 600 Wii Points.

If you like the music from the Bit.Trip games, you'll also be delighted to know that the soundtrack for Bit.Trip: Beat is now available for purchase on iTunes and CDBaby, with releases to follow on pretty much every online and mobile music retailer you've ever heard of, and several you haven't.

Finally, proving its allegiance to the chiptune community. Gaijin Games announced that it will sponsor this year's Blip Festival in New York City. Classy!

JoystiqGive thanks for Bit.Trip Void on November 23 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 10:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aksys-gamesbit-tripbit-trip-beatbit-trip-voidblip-festivalgaijin-gamesNintendoVoidWiiThu, 05 Nov 2009 10:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: Bit.Trip Core (WiiWare)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/17/review-bit-trip-core-wiiware/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/17/review-bit-trip-core-wiiware/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/17/review-bit-trip-core-wiiware/#comments Gaijin Games returns with another installment in its Bit.Trip series: Bit.Trip: Core, and if you found yourself hyperventilating at the prospect of zapping pixels from a whole bunch of different directions, know those fears are well-founded. Bit.Trip: Core is very tough, but like its predecessor, it's not frustrating.

[Note: There's also a video review!]

Continue reading Review: Bit.Trip Core (WiiWare)

JoystiqReview: Bit.Trip Core (WiiWare) originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 Jul 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Aksys-Gamesbit-tripbit-trip-beatbit-trip-coreCoreGaijin-GamesNintendoWiiFri, 17 Jul 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NintendoWare Weekly: Bit.Trip: Core becomes 100th WiiWare game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/06/nintendoware-weekly-bit-trip-core-becomes-100th-wiiware-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/06/nintendoware-weekly-bit-trip-core-becomes-100th-wiiware-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/06/nintendoware-weekly-bit-trip-core-becomes-100th-wiiware-game/#comments
Folks, it's time to break out the party hats and noise makers because, just as expected, Bit.Trip: Core is the 100th WiIWare game to release on the service. Why, we remember our little pal doing finger paintings and learning to ride a bike like it was yesterday. They grow up so fast!

Continue reading NintendoWare Weekly: Bit.Trip: Core becomes 100th WiiWare game

JoystiqNintendoWare Weekly: Bit.Trip: Core becomes 100th WiiWare game originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 Jul 2009 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bit-trip-beatDSdsiwaregaijin-gamesNintendonintendo-dsinintendoware-weeklyvirtual-consoleWiiwiiwareMon, 06 Jul 2009 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Prepare for pain with this Bit.Trip: Core trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/13/prepare-for-pain-with-this-bit-trip-core-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/13/prepare-for-pain-with-this-bit-trip-core-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/13/prepare-for-pain-with-this-bit-trip-core-trailer/#commentsAfter watching the trailer for Bit.Trip: Core we've embedded after the break, we're panicking well in advance of actually playing the game. Beat only had pixels flying at us from one direction, and we were scared enough when we learned that Core would up that to four. But this trailer shows that dots approach the middle of the screen from eight directions.

The more precise digital control scheme should make the gameplay a bit easier to process, but we still perceive a lot of psychedelic, entranced failure in our future. And we can't wait!

Those creepy stretched-out Commander Video characters didn't help make us feel any more confident about the game, either.

Continue reading Prepare for pain with this Bit.Trip: Core trailer

JoystiqPrepare for pain with this Bit.Trip: Core trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 May 2009 12:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aksys-gamesbit-trip-beatbit-trip-coregaijin-gamesrhythmwiiwareWed, 13 May 2009 12:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Gaijin Games offers help with Bit.Trip: Beat's hardcore save system]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/06/gaijin-games-offers-help-with-bit-trip-beats-hardcore-save-sys/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/06/gaijin-games-offers-help-with-bit-trip-beats-hardcore-save-sys/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/06/gaijin-games-offers-help-with-bit-trip-beats-hardcore-save-sys/#commentsWe thought Bit.Trip: Beat's saving system, which only saves your progress if you achieve a high score, was just part of the punishing design of Gaijin Games' WiiWare title. However, Gaijin revealed on its blog that it's actually a bug!

"The fact is, we discovered this bug after the US version of the game was in the queue for release," BTB designer Alex Neuse said. "This meant that those of us in the US were stuck with this issue. The Japanese and European versions that came after the US one do not share the same problem."

Even more surprising is the method Neuse has employed to rectify the bug -- he's offering his own save file, with all three levels unlocked, for download. You can just copy it over the save file on your Wii and actually see the second and third level for once! Neuse promises that "If you beat a level in CORE, the next level stays unlocked."

JoystiqGaijin Games offers help with Bit.Trip: Beat's hardcore save system originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 May 2009 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bit-trip-beatgaijin-gameswiiwareWed, 06 May 2009 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Gaijin Games ups the ante on WiiWare with Bit.Trip: Core]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/04/gaijin-games-ups-the-ante-on-wiiware-with-bit-trip-core/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/04/gaijin-games-ups-the-ante-on-wiiware-with-bit-trip-core/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/04/gaijin-games-ups-the-ante-on-wiiware-with-bit-trip-core/#comments The sequel to the very fun (yet, very punishing) Bit.Trip: Beat has been revealed in Bit.Trip: Core, GameSpot reports. If you thought it was tough keeping track of rogue pixels assaulting you from one direction, then you're going to have an even tougher time with Core, as the player must now defend against attacking pixels from four different directions.

Another big change comes in the controls department. The first game featured motion-based controls, but in Core you're stuck in the middle of the screen, pushing directions on the d-pad to shine a beam of light toward rushing pixels. It's essentially the same type of gameplay, combining rhythm and shmup elements, so if you liked Bit.Trip: Beat, then you'll likely find value in this. The game also adds a progress meter showing you how far you've made it into a stage, as well as a screen clearing ability that will hopefully ease the experience up a bit.

Bit.Trip: Core is due for release on WiiWare sometime this summer.

JoystiqGaijin Games ups the ante on WiiWare with Bit.Trip: Core originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 May 2009 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Aksys-Gamesbit-tripbit-trip-beatbit-trip-coreCoregaijin-gameswiiwareMon, 04 May 2009 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[VC Friday: Bit.Trip: Beat plus the impossible]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/01/vc-friday-bit-trip-beat-plus-the-impossible/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/01/vc-friday-bit-trip-beat-plus-the-impossible/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/01/vc-friday-bit-trip-beat-plus-the-impossible/#commentsThis week, as promised, Bit. Trip: Beat arrives on the PAL Wii Shop, ready to hypnotize and frustrate another set of Wii gamers. But that's not the only reason this week is special: it's joined by a Virtual Console game. That's right, Virtual Console and WiiWare in the same week. Totally crazy, right? Galaxy Force II, stripped of its brilliant moving arcade cabinet for the Genesis version, comes off as a sort of Space Harrier ... in space. It's not great, but it sure is a Virtual Console game!

It gets crazier: there are also two DSiWare games in the lineup.

Virtual Console:
  • Galaxy Force II (Mega Drive,1 player, 800 Wii Points)
WiiWare:
  • Bit. Trip: Beat (1-4 players, 600 Wii Points)
DSiWare:
  • A Little Bit of ... Dr. Mario (1 player, 500 DSi Points)
  • A Little Bit of ... Magic Made Fun: Funny Face (1 player, 200 DSi Points)

JoystiqVC Friday: Bit.Trip: Beat plus the impossible originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 May 2009 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bit-trip-beatdsidsiwarefridaygalaxy-force-iivirtual-consolewiiwareFri, 01 May 2009 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Bit.Trip: Beat makes a Bit.Eurotrip this week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/29/bit-trip-beat-makes-a-bit-eurotrip-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/29/bit-trip-beat-makes-a-bit-eurotrip-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/29/bit-trip-beat-makes-a-bit-eurotrip-this-week/#commentsGaijin Games' ridiculously difficult music/Pong experience, Bit.Trip: Beat, just came out this week in Japan (where it is actually a gaijin game). Gaijin just announced that the game will be released on the PAL Wii Shop this Friday. "Sorry for the long wait, European gamers," the developer's blog states. "Start loadin' up those Wii Points and get ready for some BIT.TRIP BEAT insanity!"

We can hardly think of a better use for your 600 Wii Points (if you already have Devil's Crush). Just be warned: you will not complete this game the first time you play it. You will not, in fact, complete the first stage.

[Via Cubed3]

JoystiqBit.Trip: Beat makes a Bit.Eurotrip this week originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Apr 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aksysbit-trip-beateuropemusicpalwiiwareWed, 29 Apr 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[VC/WiiWare Tuesday: WarioWiiWare]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/28/vc-wiiware-tuesday-wariowiiware/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/28/vc-wiiware-tuesday-wariowiiware/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/28/vc-wiiware-tuesday-wariowiiware/#commentsBetween Virtual Console and WiiWare this week, Japan has seven new games to download. Well, six if you don't count Konami's WiiWare edutainment screensaver thing (which also acts as kids' introduction to offensive DLC) as a game. And 79 if you do, and also count each available minigame in Asobu! Made in Ore. It's a big week, is what we're saying.

WiiWare is especially sparkling this week, with the aforementioned Asobu, which lets players upload and play games made in the DS Made in Ore (also out this week), as well as the Japanese debut of Bit. Trip: Beat and the Harvest Moon WiiWare spinoff. As for Virtual Console, we're hoping to see Banamco's arcade sci-fi track and field game Numan Athletics make the long, long, long jump out of Japan!

Virtual Console
WiiWare

JoystiqVC/WiiWare Tuesday: WarioWiiWare originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 28 Apr 2009 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asobu-made-in-orebit-trip-beatharvest-moonmade-in-orenuman-athleticswariowareyoukai-douchuukiTue, 28 Apr 2009 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Joyswag: Bit.Trip: Beat (WiiWare)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/30/joyswag-bit-trip-beat-wiiware/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/30/joyswag-bit-trip-beat-wiiware/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/30/joyswag-bit-trip-beat-wiiware/#comments Update: Sorry, folks, entry is closed. Thank you all for entering and keep an eye on your email inbox!

We have 3 copies of the super fun Bit.Trip: Beat to give away, thanks to the fine folks at Gaijin Games! You all know the drill: follow the rules below and you might just win! We'll be crossing our fingers just for you.
  • Leave a comment telling us the toughest (but still fun) game you've ever played
  • You must be 18 years or older and a resident of the US
  • Limit 1 entry per person per calendar day
  • This entry period ends at 2:59 pm ET on Friday, April 3. We'll randomly select 3 winners at that time to each receive a Bit.Trip: Beat for WiiWare (ARV: $6.00)
  • For a list of complete rules, click here

JoystiqJoyswag: Bit.Trip: Beat (WiiWare) originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 Mar 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aksysaksys-gamesbit-trip-beatgaijin-gamesjoyswagwiiwareMon, 30 Mar 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq Review: Bit.Trip: Beat (WiiWare)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/20/joystiq-review-bit-trip-beat-wiiware/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/20/joystiq-review-bit-trip-beat-wiiware/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/20/joystiq-review-bit-trip-beat-wiiware/#comments
Bit.Trip: Beat is a harsh mistress. Never before have I played a game this tough, let alone one with such a difficult first level. Still, as hard as it is to climb that quirky, puzzle mountain, reaching its summit was a rewarding experience as I employed my floating bar of justice to stop the unrelenting army of pixels that sought to sneak past me.

(If you're looking to skip all of the boring text and enjoy a more visual presentation, check out our handy video companion.)

Continue reading Joystiq Review: Bit.Trip: Beat (WiiWare)

JoystiqJoystiq Review: Bit.Trip: Beat (WiiWare) originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Mar 2009 14:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bit-trip-beatgaijin-gameswiiwareFri, 20 Mar 2009 14:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Wiikly Wares: Bit.Trip: Beat and Summer Games II]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/16/wiikly-wares-bit-trip-beat-and-summer-games-ii/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/16/wiikly-wares-bit-trip-beat-and-summer-games-ii/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/16/wiikly-wares-bit-trip-beat-and-summer-games-ii/#comments
Monday's aren't just for loathing, with the Wii receiving one new WiiWare and one new Virtual Console game today. So, while you may he miserable at the office or in the classroom, you have new gaming goodness awaiting you at home. Here's what's on offer:

WiiWare
Bit.Trip: Beat (Aksys Games, 1-4 players, 600 Wii Points): Developed by Gaijin Games, this title is like a combination of Pong and the craziest rave party you've ever been to. Don't believe us? The proof is in the video pudding, friends!

Virtual Console
Summer Games II (C64, 1-8 players, 500 Wii Points): Featuring 18 different competing countries and 8 different sports - cycling, equestrian, fencing, high jump, javelin, kayaking, rowing and triple jump - this C64 title brings all of the drama of the Olympics right into your living room. Or your bedroom. Depends on where you have your Wii set up, really.

JoystiqWiikly Wares: Bit.Trip: Beat and Summer Games II originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 16 Mar 2009 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aksys-gamesbit-trip-beatgaijin-gamesNintendoWiiwiikly-waresMon, 16 Mar 2009 09:59:00 EST<![CDATA[The Bit.Trip.Beat stops on WiiWare this Monday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/13/the-bit-trip-beat-stops-on-wiiware-this-monday/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/13/the-bit-trip-beat-stops-on-wiiware-this-monday/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/13/the-bit-trip-beat-stops-on-wiiware-this-monday/#comments Ready to go on your first Bit.Trip? The folks at Aksys have confirmed to us that the hard-as-nails retro-themed WiiWare-exclusive music game will make its US debut on Monday, March 16th. The concept is rather simple: just tilt your Wii Remote to slide your Pong-esque paddle up and down. Deflect oncoming bullets to create some pretty rad chiptune music. As easy as this sounds, the wild barrage of notes that soon floods the screen will lead to many, many game overs.

With support for up to four players on one screen, Bit.Trip.Beat has us pretty excited. It's the kind of game that you can just play and get into a trance.

JoystiqThe Bit.Trip.Beat stops on WiiWare this Monday originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Mar 2009 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Aksys-GamesBeatbit-tripbit-trip-beatGaijin-GameswiiwareFri, 13 Mar 2009 17:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Watch this exclusive Bit.Trip: Beat trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/30/watch-this-exclusive-bit-trip-beat-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/30/watch-this-exclusive-bit-trip-beat-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/30/watch-this-exclusive-bit-trip-beat-trailer/#commentsNo, we're serious. You don't know what unspeakable acts we had to perform to secure this exclusive trailer for the Gaijin-developed, Aksys-published Bit.Trip: Beat. If you don't watch it, we're going to throw out this BFF bracelet you made us and show up at your house demanding those mix tapes back. You know, the ones that had all of those Air Supply and Bryan Adams tracks on them. So, watch the 4-bit goodness in the video above and stock up on some Wii Points. You're going to want to check out this quirky rhythm game when it releases.

Gallery: Bit.Trip: Beat

JoystiqWatch this exclusive Bit.Trip: Beat trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 Jan 2009 15:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aksysaksys-gamesbit-trip-beatgaijin-gamesNintendoretrorhythmWiiwiiwareFri, 30 Jan 2009 15:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Bit.Trip: Beat could bounce our way as soon as February]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/26/bit-trip-beat-could-bounce-our-way-as-soon-as-february/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/26/bit-trip-beat-could-bounce-our-way-as-soon-as-february/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/26/bit-trip-beat-could-bounce-our-way-as-soon-as-february/#commentsFiled under: ,


In an interview with Game Music 4 All, Gaijin Games' Alex Neuse offered a potential launch window for the ultra-retro music game Bit.Trip: Beat. "We are madly scrambling to finish the game up as I type this," Neuse said. "Our hopeful launch will be in mid-February, but I will not promise a date yet. :)" Of course, even if there were a specific date, WiiWare launch dates are unreliable and infinitely mutable based pretty much on Nintendo's whims. We're just glad to hear that he's thinking it could come out soon!

When it does come out, in addition to three original tracks included (which will build based on the player's performance, like Rez), two tracks from chiptune superstar Bit Shifter will be included in the game, as the menu and credits music! It's like Bit.Trip: Beat is the official game of chiptunes!

Neuse gave a couple of vague hints about upcoming Bit.Trip sequels, as well. "Episode 2 of the BIT.TRIP saga will continue the story of CommanderVideo's mission and will also introduce an entirely new gameplay mechanic-still rhythm based of course, and still chiptuney." We knew it was going to be a series, but we didn't know they were all going to be rhythm games. This is wonderful.

JoystiqBit.Trip: Beat could bounce our way as soon as February originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Jan 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aksysbit-trip-beatgaijin-gamesretrorhythmMon, 26 Jan 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Warm Up: The new retro]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/24/wii-warm-up-the-new-retro/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/24/wii-warm-up-the-new-retro/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/24/wii-warm-up-the-new-retro/#commentsFiled under:

Mega Man 9 brought authentic 8-bit style to WiiWare. It was totally great, and totally a unique presentation for a modern game. Since then, two more faux-retro games have been announced for WiiWare: the currently Japan-only Eventful Journey! Pole's Big Adventure, which combines Famicom parody with Japanese TV-style comedy; and Bit.Trip: Beat, which takes its visual inspiration from even older games.

Now that it's a genuine trend, how do you feel about the fake-retro thing? Do you like seeing direct references to the history of gaming like this? Do you like it more or less now that it's not just Mega Man (and Retro Game Challenge) doing it?

JoystiqWii Warm Up: The new retro originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 24 Jan 2009 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bit-trip-beatmega-man-9nespoles-big-adventureretroSat, 24 Jan 2009 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Warm Up: Bit.Trip: Which Beats?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/15/wii-warm-up-bit-trip-which-beats/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/15/wii-warm-up-bit-trip-which-beats/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/15/wii-warm-up-bit-trip-which-beats/#commentsFiled under:

The debut footage of Gaijin Games' Bit.Trip: Beat received a mainly positive response from our (obviously very cultured) readers, but one comment in particular got us thinking. Reader Go1denchi1d suggested the game needed an editor, to allow us to compile our own chiptune ditties, and we could not agree more strongly.

No such feature has been announced (yet), but if it were, which song would you want to recreate (and deflect colored blocks to) first?

JoystiqWii Warm Up: Bit.Trip: Which Beats? originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Jan 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aksysbit-trip-beatgaijin-gamesretrorhythmwwuThu, 15 Jan 2009 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bit.Trip Beat bringing funky chiptunes to WiiWare]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/14/bit-trip-beat-bringing-funky-chiptunes-to-wiiware/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/14/bit-trip-beat-bringing-funky-chiptunes-to-wiiware/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/14/bit-trip-beat-bringing-funky-chiptunes-to-wiiware/#commentsFiled under: ,

The upcoming WiiWare game, Bit.Trip Beat, goes for a retro style that makes Mega Man 9 look futuristic in comparison. Comprised of 8-bit chiptunes and giant pixel blocks, Bit.Trip Beat certainly looks the part of an '80s arcade game.

This video highlights the simple gameplay. It appears you must simply align a Pong-esque paddle to hit a stream of notes as they stream to the left of the screen. While it looks simple, the team promises it will be "challenging." The game will also feature 4-player local co-op, which should make for an interesting experience.

Alex Neuse, designer at Gaijin Games, said the "team wanted to make a game that used the tools of today to inspire the fun of yesterday." We wonder if Wii fans will agree with the team's vision, or if it'll be passed off as a bit too retro for their tastes.

JoystiqBit.Trip Beat bringing funky chiptunes to WiiWare originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Jan 2009 16:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aksys-gamesbit-trip-beatgaijin-gamesWiiwiiwareWed, 14 Jan 2009 16:25:00 EST