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[Civilization 5's 'Brave New World' expansion adds Indonesia, Morocco]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/civilization-5s-brave-new-world-expansion-adds-indonesia-mor/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/civilization-5s-brave-new-world-expansion-adds-indonesia-mor/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/civilization-5s-brave-new-world-expansion-adds-indonesia-mor/#comments Two more factions, Indonesia and Morocco, have been revealed for upcoming Civilization 5 expansion, Brave New World. Leading Indonesia is Gaja Mada, famous for his military insight as prime minister of the Majapahit Empire; Ahmad al-Mansur leads the Moroccans, sultan of the Saadi dynasty in the 1500s.

Brave New World, the second expansion to Civilization 5, is due in July and will add nine new civilizations, several new wonders and modified mechanics from the base game. The first expansion, Gods and Kings, arrived last summer, adding new espionage and religious mechanics.

Gallery: Civilization 5: Brave New World (Indonesia and Morocco)

JoystiqCivilization 5's 'Brave New World' expansion adds Indonesia, Morocco originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 May 2013 02:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesAhmad-al-Mansurbrave-new-worldcivilization-5expansionfiraxis-gamesgaja-madaindonesiamoroccopcTue, 21 May 2013 02:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization 5 digs up 'Brave New World' Cliff's Notes video]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/civilization-5-digs-up-up-the-brave-new-world-cliffs-notes/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/civilization-5-digs-up-up-the-brave-new-world-cliffs-notes/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/civilization-5-digs-up-up-the-brave-new-world-cliffs-notes/#comments

If reading isn't your thing, and really, who could blame you? Words, words, words. Anyway, here's the audio/visual version of what you'll find in the Civilization 5 "Brave New World" expansion out this July. Alas, despite our hopes, there don't appear to be "no scope headshots."

Continue reading Civilization 5 digs up 'Brave New World' Cliff's Notes video

JoystiqCivilization 5 digs up 'Brave New World' Cliff's Notes video originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 10 May 2013 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>civilization-5pcFri, 10 May 2013 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization 5: Brave New World launches in July, XCOM units playable]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/civilization-5-brave-new-world-launches-in-july/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/civilization-5-brave-new-world-launches-in-july/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/civilization-5-brave-new-world-launches-in-july/#comments

The Civilization 5: Brave New World expansion has been given a launch date of July 9 for North America, July 12 internationally.

During today's Firaxis PAX East panel, the team also announced that the game will feature XCOM squads as late-game units. The units are paratroopers who can drop in 40 units away (delivered by Skyranger), the standard is 9. Would you expect any less from the elite squad of humanity's last hope?

Gallery: Civilization V - Brave New World

JoystiqCivilization 5: Brave New World launches in July, XCOM units playable originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 23 Mar 2013 17:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamescivilization-5firaxisFiraxis-Gamespax-east-2013pcSat, 23 Mar 2013 17:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Seen@PAX East: A tactical poster for your time]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/seen-pax-east-a-tactical-poster-for-your-time/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/seen-pax-east-a-tactical-poster-for-your-time/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/seen-pax-east-a-tactical-poster-for-your-time/#comments SeenPax East Hanging at the 2K booth at PAX East is an inspirational poster of marketing, featuring the characters from Firaxis' Civilization and XCOM: Enemy Unknown. If you're at the show, you can pick up the poster at the "Strategy Masterminds Mega Panel - Behind the Scenes at Firaxis Games" panel. The panel features the team of Firaxis showing off "never-before-seen footage" and teasing "big reveals" at 4:30PM.

JoystiqSeen@PAX East: A tactical poster for your time originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 23 Mar 2013 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesCivilization-5firaxisFiraxis-Gamespax-east-2013pcxcom-enemy-unknownSat, 23 Mar 2013 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization 5 enters 'Brave New World' with expansion pack this summer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/15/civilization-5-expansion-brave-new-world/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/15/civilization-5-expansion-brave-new-world/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/15/civilization-5-expansion-brave-new-world/#comments Civilization 5 enters 'Brave New World' with expansion pack this summerHistory can't be stopped and neither can developer Firaxis' Civilization 5 expansion packs, with "Brave New World" arriving this summer for Mac and PC. This is the second "massive expansion" for the strategy game, following last year's excellent "Gods & Kings," which added religion and espionage to the mix. Brave New World's big features are trade networks and ideology.

"Right at the beginning there are trade routes," Firaxis producer Dennis Shirk told us. "Caravans go back and forth in trade routes. Barbarians can attack them spawning more barbarians. Other players can attack to disrupt trade during wartime." Players will also have a button to easily display an overlay of trade routes in the game.

Another major addition to gameplay is that when the industrial and modern eras roll around, ideology comes into play. "We just wanted to have that culture game be as engaging as the military victory," said Shirk. "Before it was just a really passive game style."

Ideology will be used to enhance the experience of the cultural victory. Per usual, there will be more wonders and scenarios. We'll learn more about this latest expansion next week at PAX East.

Gallery: Civilization V - Brave New World

Continue reading Civilization 5 enters 'Brave New World' with expansion pack this summer

JoystiqCivilization 5 enters 'Brave New World' with expansion pack this summer originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Mar 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>civilization-5firaxisFiraxis-GamesmacpcFri, 15 Mar 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Steam Daily Deal: Sid Meier's Civilization franchise downsized 75%]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/03/steam-daily-deal-sid-meiers-civilization-franchise-downsized-7/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/03/steam-daily-deal-sid-meiers-civilization-franchise-downsized-7/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/03/steam-daily-deal-sid-meiers-civilization-franchise-downsized-7/#comments Steam Daily Deal Sid Meier's Civilization franchise sliced by 75%Sunday is a great day to explore and conquer new lands, whether across the Mediterranean, throughout Asia, or around the fresh vegetable aisle of your local supermarket. Steam is here to help with this quest, offering Sid Meier's Civilization 3, 4 and 5 for 75 percent off.

Civilization 3 Complete is $1.25 today, Civilization 4 is $5 and 4: The Complete Edition is $7.50. The Civilization 5: Gold Edition bundle is $12.50 and includes the game, the Gods and Kings DLC pack, five scenario packs, four Cradle of Civilization packs, the Explorer map pack and the Babylon DLC pack. Each bit of content is 75 percent off on its lonesome, if you simply need to bulk out your Civilization library.

JoystiqSteam Daily Deal: Sid Meier's Civilization franchise downsized 75% originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 03 Mar 2013 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Civilization-3Civilization-4civilization-5daily-dealpcsaleSid-Meiers-Civilization-4sid-meiers-civilization-5STEAMsteam-daily-dealSun, 03 Mar 2013 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GameFly deals: Tomb Raider PC for $36, Civ 5 for $6, 20% off PC downloads]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/12/gamefly-deals-tomb-raider-pc-for-36-civ-5-for-6-20-off-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/12/gamefly-deals-tomb-raider-pc-for-36-civ-5-for-6-20-off-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/12/gamefly-deals-tomb-raider-pc-for-36-civ-5-for-6-20-off-pc/#comments Not unlike an ancient conqueror, GameFly has slashed and burned the price of its Civilization V PC download. Usually $30, the game can now be had for a mere $7.49. The deal expires at midnight PT on February 14, a day when you should probably pay attention to your significant other and not global diplomacy.

But wait, there's more! Using another GameFly deal, you can actually knock the price down to only six bucks. All you have to do is use the coupon code GFDFEB20, which takes an additional 20 percent off the price of PC downloads. Of course, if you're not in the mood for Civilization, you could always apply it to a different PC download, say, a pre-order of Tomb Raider. Already discounted to $45, the coupon drops it down to $36.

JoystiqGameFly deals: Tomb Raider PC for $36, Civ 5 for $6, 20% off PC downloads originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Feb 2013 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Civilization-5civilization-vgameflypctomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013Tue, 12 Feb 2013 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Civ 5 lead designer forms studio, pounds At the Gates of Kickstarter]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/civ-5-lead-designer-forms-studio-pounds-at-the-gates-of-kicksta/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/civ-5-lead-designer-forms-studio-pounds-at-the-gates-of-kicksta/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/civ-5-lead-designer-forms-studio-pounds-at-the-gates-of-kicksta/#comments Civ 5 lead designer forms indie studio, pounds At the Gates of KickstarterThe lead designer of Civilization 5, Jon Shafer, is breaking out on his own with a new independent studio, Conifer Games, and its first game, At the Gates. At the Gates is an empire builder and Conifer Games is asking for $40,000 on Kickstarter to finish it; the team has "already made significant progress" in its development.

This news means Shafer is no longer at Stardock, where in 2011 he signed on to help with Elemental: Fallen Enchantress and an unannounced project. Shafer founded Conifer Games a few months ago, according to his blog, and At the Gates already has a fully playable prototype.

"Our first project is At the Gates, a 4X turn-based strategy game which takes place during the fall of the Roman Empire," Shafer writes. "Players take the reigns of a fledgling barbarian tribe trying to forge a place for itself within the new order."

If all goes as planned with the Kickstarter, At the Gates will launch in the first half of 2014.

JoystiqCiv 5 lead designer forms studio, pounds At the Gates of Kickstarter originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Feb 2013 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>at-the-gatescivilization-5conifer-gamesIndiejon-shaferkickstarterpcWed, 06 Feb 2013 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization 5 'One World' expansion spotted in Steam database]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/15/civilization-5-one-world-expansion-spotted-in-steam-database/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/15/civilization-5-one-world-expansion-spotted-in-steam-database/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/15/civilization-5-one-world-expansion-spotted-in-steam-database/#comments Rumor Civilization 5 getting One World expansionCivilization 5 might be getting a new expansion titled "One World," according to a listing on the Steam Apps Database, as spotted by members of the 2K Games forums. The database lists only "Expansion - One World Content" and its executable file for PC, with no additional information. Neither 2K nor Firaxis have confirmed future DLC for the game.

The previous expansion for Civilization 5 was Gods and Kings, which launched in June. We thought that expansion brought us pretty close to the "final version" of Civilization 5, but it seems there's always room for improvement. Rome wasn't built in a day, people.

JoystiqCivilization 5 'One World' expansion spotted in Steam database originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Jan 2013 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-Gamescivilization-5DLCFiraxis-Gamesone-worldpcTue, 15 Jan 2013 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Steam Summer Sale, Day 9: Dungeon Defenders, Crysis 2, Civ 5 and more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/20/steam-summer-sale-day-9-dungeon-defenders-crysis-2-civ-5-and/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/20/steam-summer-sale-day-9-dungeon-defenders-crysis-2-civ-5-and/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/20/steam-summer-sale-day-9-dungeon-defenders-crysis-2-civ-5-and/#comments Steam Summer Sale, Day 9 Dungeon Defenders, Crysis 2, Civ 5 and moreWell, we're more than a week into the Steam Summer Sale and there's still no end in sight. No end to the savings, that is! (Can you tell we used to write copy for a local used car dealership?)

Today's deep discounts include Dungeon Defenders, Fear 3, Magicka and Red Orchestra 2: Heroes of Stalingrad GOTYE, all for less than five smackers each, and Civilization 5, Deus Ex: Human Revolution, Crysis 2 and Driver: San Fancisco for less than a tenner. Today's indie bundle is also no slouch, touting the now-classic VVVVVV, as well as the ballistically brilliant Jamestown.

JoystiqSteam Summer Sale, Day 9: Dungeon Defenders, Crysis 2, Civ 5 and more originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Jul 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>civ-5Civilization-5crysis-2deus-ex-human-revolutiondriver-san-franciscodungeon-defendersfear-3Jamestownmacmagickapcred-orchestra-2-heroes-of-stalingradsteam-summer-salesteam-summer-sale-2012VVVVVVFri, 20 Jul 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Avoid society with this great Civilization IV + V bundle deal]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/09/avoid-society-with-this-great-civilization-iv-v-bundle-deal/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/09/avoid-society-with-this-great-civilization-iv-v-bundle-deal/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/09/avoid-society-with-this-great-civilization-iv-v-bundle-deal/#comments Holy crap this Civ IVV bundle is a crazy good dealAmazon has a pretty killer deal going on. For $20, you can nab downloads of Civilization 4: The Complete Edition, Civilization 5: Game of the Year Edition and The Stronghold Collection. It's perfect for the strategy gamer in your life who's been out of the loop for a decade.

[Thanks, Patrick!]

Continue reading Avoid society with this great Civilization IV + V bundle deal

JoystiqAvoid society with this great Civilization IV + V bundle deal originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Jul 2012 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k2k-gamescivilization-5Civilization-IVfiraxisfireflyfirefly-studiospcMon, 09 Jul 2012 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization V: Gods & Kings demo now on Steam]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/30/civilization-v-gods-and-kings-demo-now-on-steam/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/30/civilization-v-gods-and-kings-demo-now-on-steam/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/30/civilization-v-gods-and-kings-demo-now-on-steam/#comments Civilization V Gods & Kings demo now on SteamWho can afford to blindly purchase games they think may be good? Not in this economy, buster - free demos are a necessity. Today, a demo for Civilization V: Gods & Kings is available for download on Steam.

Gods & Kings launched earlier this month - we enjoyed it - and is currently available as a $29.99 expansion. Of course, you must already own Civilization V to play.

JoystiqCivilization V: Gods & Kings demo now on Steam originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 30 Jun 2012 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>civilization-5civilization-5-gods-and-kingsdemofiraxisFiraxis-GamessteamSat, 30 Jun 2012 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[OnLive now streaming Civ 5, free with Gods and Kings purchase]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/20/onlive-now-streaming-civ-5-free-with-gods-and-kings-purchase/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/20/onlive-now-streaming-civ-5-free-with-gods-and-kings-purchase/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/20/onlive-now-streaming-civ-5-free-with-gods-and-kings-purchase/#comments Buy Civ 5 expansion from OnLive, get Civ 5 free this weekIf you don't own Civilization 5 yet, have heard good things about the Gods and Kings expansion, and have a steady Internet connection to play games on, then streaming service OnLive has a deal for you. It's offering the Civ 5 core game PlayPass for free when you buy Gods and Kings, essentially giving you the entire critically acclaimed title and its add-on for $29.99.

What you're buying here is the chance to play them on OnLive, however, which gives you the benefit of running the game as if you're on a high-end PC (even if you're on a Mac or a low-end PC), as long as you have an Internet connection with the bandwidth to stream it. As long as you've got the pipes for streaming HD video, this is the way to jump on the Civ 5 wagon, as the same deal on Steam will currently run you $60. OnLive says the door's closing on this one at the end of this week.

JoystiqOnLive now streaming Civ 5, free with Gods and Kings purchase originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Jun 2012 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>civciv-5civilization-5expansiongods-and-kingspcWed, 20 Jun 2012 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization 5: Gods and Kings review: March of progress]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/18/civilization-5-gods-and-kings-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/18/civilization-5-gods-and-kings-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/18/civilization-5-gods-and-kings-review/#comments
The board game Clue (Cluedo to those in Europe) was created in 1949. About 40 years later Clue Master Detective was created, leaving the core game intact, but adding more suspects, weapons and rooms. Civilization 5: Gods and Kings follows a nearly identical model. Seemingly a response to criticism that there wasn't enough going on in Civilization 5 as there was in Civilization 4, the Gods and Kings expansion tosses a bunch of balanced mechanics into the game simply to give more.

To understand the present we must look to the recent past. Civilization 5 already had its "Game of the Year Edition" launch last year, normally marketing's indication that a game's development has come to a conclusion. Yet, here we are with Gods and Kings, a $30 expansion that adds new civilizations, wonders and buildings; with two big game mechanic additions being religion and espionage.

I appreciated Civilization 5 for being a better game than any of its predecessors, opening up the series to more players, instead of creating the strategy game feedback loop that only builds mechanics for the hardest of hardcore, thus leaving newbies locked out or working eight times harder to understand what's happening. Civilization 5 streamlined nearly every mechanic in the series and made combat tactical for the first time, only allowing one unit per hex instead of a "stack of doom."

Boiled down: Civilization 5: Gods and Kings takes two years of patches and adds religion and espionage to the mix for those who felt the game wasn't busy enough. Oddly, and not in a negative sense, the new mechanics actually simplify the game in many ways, with religion and espionage supplying bonus options that can be used to devastating effect by those with a strategic mind.

Gallery: Civilization V: Gods & Kings (PAX East 2012)

Continue reading Civilization 5: Gods and Kings review: March of progress

JoystiqCivilization 5: Gods and Kings review: March of progress originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Jun 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamescivilization-5civilization-5-gods-and-kingsgods-and-kingspcsid-meiers-civilization-5Mon, 18 Jun 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Learning religious proselytizing from Civ 5's 'Gods and Kings' expansion]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/18/learning-religious-proselytizing-from-civ-5s-gods-and-kings-e/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/18/learning-religious-proselytizing-from-civ-5s-gods-and-kings-e/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/18/learning-religious-proselytizing-from-civ-5s-gods-and-kings-e/#comments
Perhaps the biggest addition in Civilization 5's upcoming Gods & Kings expansion is religion. But don't go thinking it's some innocuous cultural addendum - as the Firaxis folks above explain, religion in Civ 5 is all about subjugation.

JoystiqLearning religious proselytizing from Civ 5's 'Gods and Kings' expansion originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Jun 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamescivilization-5expansionfiraxisfiraxis-gamesgameplaygods-and-kingsmacpcreligiontake-twotake-two-interactiveMon, 18 Jun 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Civilization V Steam Workshop functionality now live]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/15/psa-civilization-v-steam-workshop-functionality-now-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/15/psa-civilization-v-steam-workshop-functionality-now-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/15/psa-civilization-v-steam-workshop-functionality-now-live/#comments Steam Workshop functionality has been turned on in Civilization V. Whether you're pumped for the upcoming Gods & Kings expansion pack, or you merely want more modability out of your vanilla Civilization V experience, you can opt in to the expanded social features enabled by Steam Workshop functionality for free right now.

... Well, not now now. You have to open up Steam and do it in there. Go ahead - go do it. This is the end of the post anyway. Nothing more to see here.

JoystiqPSA: Civilization V Steam Workshop functionality now live originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Jun 2012 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>civilization-5Firaxis-Gamesmacpcsteamsteam-workshopvalveFri, 15 Jun 2012 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Firaxis takes a walk through time with Civ 5's Gods and Kings expansion trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/13/firaxis-takes-a-walk-through-time-with-civ-vs-gods-and-kings-ex/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/13/firaxis-takes-a-walk-through-time-with-civ-vs-gods-and-kings-ex/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/13/firaxis-takes-a-walk-through-time-with-civ-vs-gods-and-kings-ex/#comments
When Civilization 5's Gods & Kings expansion launches next week, it'll have more than a few extra civs and that whole religion thing. Allow the fine folks at Firaxis to walk you through exactly what to be prepared for in this handy - and heavily informative - video, just above.

JoystiqFiraxis takes a walk through time with Civ 5's Gods and Kings expansion trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 Jun 2012 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamescivilization-5expansionfiraxisgameplaygods-and-kingsmacpctake-twotake-two-interactivetrailerWed, 13 Jun 2012 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization 5 coming to Steam Workshop]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/04/civilization-5-coming-to-steam-workshop/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/04/civilization-5-coming-to-steam-workshop/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/04/civilization-5-coming-to-steam-workshop/#comments Civilization V coming to Steam WorkshopCivilization 5 is hitting Steam Workshop soon, enhancing a bevy of modding features in the full game along with the coming Gods & Kings expansion pack. Civilization 5's current modding system is getting a facelift to include mod author pages complete with a "follow" option, the ability to create collections, favorite mods and comment on them directly.

2K Games says it will update with more information on the official forums next week.

JoystiqCivilization 5 coming to Steam Workshop originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Jun 2012 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-Gamescivilization-5Firaxis-GamesmacmodmoddingpcSTEAMsteam-workshopMon, 04 Jun 2012 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WRUP: Civilization to stand the test of time]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/wrup-civilization-to-stand-the-test-of-time/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/wrup-civilization-to-stand-the-test-of-time/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/wrup-civilization-to-stand-the-test-of-time/#comments Civilization 5 is free to play on Steam this weekend and is only $7.50 ($12.50 for the Game of the Year edition) if you decide to invest in your future's lost time. Fans of the previous installment knock the game for not being as deep, but some of those rebels may be silenced by the upcoming Gods and Kings expansion on June 19.

What's everyone playing this weekend?

Continue reading WRUP: Civilization to stand the test of time

JoystiqWRUP: Civilization to stand the test of time originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 May 2012 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>civilization-5pcwhat-are-you-playingWRUPFri, 25 May 2012 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[My liege, Civilization V is free to play on Steam this weekend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/my-liege-civilization-v-is-free-to-play-on-steam-this-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/my-liege-civilization-v-is-free-to-play-on-steam-this-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/my-liege-civilization-v-is-free-to-play-on-steam-this-weekend/#comments The time of being born into power is coming to a close, as democracy sweeps across this world of ours. Now, if you want to be a leader of a country, you need to be smart - a student of conquest and diplomacy - and this weekend you can study up in Civilization V on Steam, free of charge.

You can install the game through Steam and play until you bring the world around to your type of thinking, up until 1pm PT on Sunday. And if you like Civilization V, it just so happens you can also purchase it at a 75% discount this weekend, which brings the price down to $7.49. A good ruler must also be able to spot a good bit of marketing. The expansion, Gods and Kings, is a little more than a month away, after all.

JoystiqMy liege, Civilization V is free to play on Steam this weekend originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 May 2012 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamescivilization-5Firaxis-GamesmacpcsteamFri, 25 May 2012 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization 5: Gods and Kings finds religion, release date on June 19]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/civilization-5-gods-and-kings-finds-religion-release-date-on-j/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/civilization-5-gods-and-kings-finds-religion-release-date-on-j/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/civilization-5-gods-and-kings-finds-religion-release-date-on-j/#comments Civilization 5's "Gods and Kings" expansion is set to enter the timeline on June 19 and 22 in North America and internationally, respectively.

At GDC, developers gave us a better idea of the changes in the expansion pack, which will add 27 new units, 13 new buildings and nine new Wonders and civilizations. The big changes will include the addition of religion and espionage, along with tweaks to diplomacy. We're still looking forward to hearing more about the game's additional scenarios, including the "Victorian science-fiction scenario."

Gallery: Civilization 5: Gods and Kings (GDC 2012)

Continue reading Civilization 5: Gods and Kings finds religion, release date on June 19

JoystiqCivilization 5: Gods and Kings finds religion, release date on June 19 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamescivilization-5civilization-5-gods-and-kingsfiraxispcrelease-datesid-meiers-civilization-5Thu, 05 Apr 2012 10:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization 5: Gods and Kings devs discuss community-driven changes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/civilization-5-gods-and-kings-devs-discuss-community-driven-cha/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/civilization-5-gods-and-kings-devs-discuss-community-driven-cha/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/civilization-5-gods-and-kings-devs-discuss-community-driven-cha/#comments Civilization 5's "Gods & Kings" expansion is looking to satisfy the demand for more depth in the strategy, following the game's launch just under a year and a half ago.

One of the top three changes made due to community feedback, according to Lead Designer Ed Beach, is that the AI opponent no longer holds grudges that last millennia. He also noted that diehard Civilization 4 players complained there was a lack of depth in the gameplay, which is why religion, diplomacy and combat were added or overhauled. Finally, the combat tech tree doesn't have awkward dead ends anymore. Crossbows can now become gatling gunners, which then become machine gunners.

Producer Dennis Shirk echoed Beach, saying the religion, espionage and combat mechanics were the focus of change. Specific changes affect certain naval units, which now have "melee" abilities that allow them to invade cities after significant bombardment. There's also more flexibility in stacking units, though don't expect the classic "stack of doom" to return. Finally, espionage is handled through one screen with no actual units on the board, streamlining the process of cost and consequence.

The expansion includes 27 new units, 13 new buildings and nine new Wonders, which Firaxis didn't describe further at this event. The expansion is expected to launch in late spring, sometime "before the kids get out of school." Study comes first, kids!

JoystiqCivilization 5: Gods and Kings devs discuss community-driven changes originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamescivilization-5civilization-5-gods-and-kingsdlcgdc-2012pcsid-meiers-civilization-5Thu, 08 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization 5: Gods & Kings expansion announced, available 'late spring 2012']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/civilization-5-gods-and-kings-expansion-announced-available-lat/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/civilization-5-gods-and-kings-expansion-announced-available-lat/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/civilization-5-gods-and-kings-expansion-announced-available-lat/#comments http://www.blogcdn.com/www.joystiq.com/media/2012/02/civexpansion530pxheaderimggodsandkings.jpgReligion and espionage return to the Civilization series when the fifth installment receives the "Gods & Kings" expansion before the summer solstice.

The expansion includes 27 new units, 13 new buildings and nine new Wonders. There's also nine new civilizations, including Carthage, the Netherlands and the Celts. Along with two new types of city-states: mercantile and religious.

Scenarios include the medieval period, the fall of the Rome and the (very cool sounding) Empires of the Smoky Skies, "a Victorian science-fiction scenario."Oooh!

Most importantly, however, is the return of religion and the salvation or subjugation of the populace through its means. As players enter the Renaissance, spies can be unlocked to change the course of history through surveillance, theft and the always good fun of a coup. Sounds like a missed opportunity for an Assassin's Creed crossover if you ask us.

Gallery: Civilization V: Gods and Kings

JoystiqCivilization 5: Gods & Kings expansion announced, available 'late spring 2012' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-Gamescivilization-5firaxisFiraxis-GamespcTake-TwoTake-Two-InteractiveThu, 16 Feb 2012 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Build a mighty Civilization on the cheap at Amazon this week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/build-a-mighty-civilization-on-the-cheap-at-amazon-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/build-a-mighty-civilization-on-the-cheap-at-amazon-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/build-a-mighty-civilization-on-the-cheap-at-amazon-this-week/#comments Not an Orbital album If you have a little bit of spare change and a lot of free time, Amazon has quite a deal for you. The retailer's deal of the week offers both Civilization IV and Civilization V at a hefty discount. Either game can be had for a mere $9.

If you need a strategy guide, Machiavelli has you covered.

JoystiqBuild a mighty Civilization on the cheap at Amazon this week originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Jan 2012 04:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-Gamescivilization-4civilization-5Firaxis-Gamespcsid-meierTue, 10 Jan 2012 04:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Deus Ex, Civ 5, GTA series on sale today on Steam]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/30/deus-ex-civ-5-gta-series-on-sale-today-on-steam/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/30/deus-ex-civ-5-gta-series-on-sale-today-on-steam/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/30/deus-ex-civ-5-gta-series-on-sale-today-on-steam/#comments We know you're probably exhausted both mentally and financially by the onslaught of Steam Holiday Sales, but try to steel yourself: Today's righteous offers include Deus Ex: Human Revolution, Civilization 5 and all of the Grand Theft Auto games in the world. (Well, most of them.)

Continue reading Deus Ex, Civ 5, GTA series on sale today on Steam

JoystiqDeus Ex, Civ 5, GTA series on sale today on Steam originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 Dec 2011 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Civilization-5deus-ex-human-revolutiongrand-theft-autopcsteamsteam-holiday-sale-2011Fri, 30 Dec 2011 17:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Steam Autumn Sale: Limbo, Overlord 75 percent off]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/26/steam-autumn-sale-limbo-overlord-75-percent-off/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/26/steam-autumn-sale-limbo-overlord-75-percent-off/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/26/steam-autumn-sale-limbo-overlord-75-percent-off/#comments Steam's Autumn Sale continues today, with some spectacular sales on Limbo ($2.49), Civilization 5 ($10.19), the Overlord complete pack ($4.99) and more. There's also a terrible sale on Kane & Lynch 2: Dog Days, wherein Steam is still asking people to actually pay for it.

Steam is also offering franchise sales on The Witcher, F.E.A.R., Tom Clancy and, to keep the excitement at manageable levels, Kane & Lynch titles.

JoystiqSteam Autumn Sale: Limbo, Overlord 75 percent off originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 26 Nov 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Civilization-5F.E.A.R.kane-and-lynch-2kane-and-lynch-2-dog-dayslimboOverlordoverlord-2pcsteam-autumn-saleThe-Witchertom-clancySat, 26 Nov 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization 5 GOTY edition announced, available Sept. 27]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/14/civilization-5-goty-edition-announced-available-sept-27/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/14/civilization-5-goty-edition-announced-available-sept-27/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/14/civilization-5-goty-edition-announced-available-sept-27/#comments 2K Games announced today that a "Game of the Year Edition" for Civilization 5 will enter the annals of retail history on September 27. The $50 bundle includes the core game, soundtrack and previously released add-on content that was sold to Civ addicts for between $5 and $10 a hit.

Civilization 5, as expected, was one of the best strategy games of the past year. The GOTY edition also includes all the mega-patches the game received since its launch a year ago. We've listed the included DLC for the GOTY bundle after the break.

Continue reading Civilization 5 GOTY edition announced, available Sept. 27

JoystiqCivilization 5 GOTY edition announced, available Sept. 27 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Sep 2011 11:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>civilization-5dlcFiraxis-Gamesgoty-editionpcrelease-dateWed, 14 Sep 2011 11:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization 5 adds Koreans, ancient wonders DLC August 11]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/civilization-5-adds-koreans-ancient-wonders-dlc-august-11/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/civilization-5-adds-koreans-ancient-wonders-dlc-august-11/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/civilization-5-adds-koreans-ancient-wonders-dlc-august-11/#comments
Civilization 5 continues its rapid DLC expansion with two new packs, featuring the Koreans and Ancient Wonders on August 11. The "Civilization and Scenario Pack: Korea" will have Sejong the Great presiding over events, with the new Turtle Ships and Hwach'a artillery at his command. The pack also includes a scenario that finds the Koreans holding off the Japanese warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi from invading the peninsula. You can play as Korea, China, Manchuria or Japan in the scenario.

The "Wonders of the Ancient World Scenario Pack" adds three new wonders: The Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, Statue of Zeus and Temple of Artemis. The scenario for this pack will have civs competing to build (or capture from neighbors) the most wonders in a set amount of time. The packs are $4.99 apiece, or $7.49 for the "Korea and Ancient World Combo Pack".

Continue reading Civilization 5 adds Koreans, ancient wonders DLC August 11

JoystiqCivilization 5 adds Koreans, ancient wonders DLC August 11 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Aug 2011 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-Gamescivilization-5DLCFiraxisFiraxis-GamesmacpcMon, 08 Aug 2011 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization 5 marked down to $17, Altitude free-to-play this weekend on Steam]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/22/civilization-5-marked-down-to-17-altitude-free-to-play-this-we/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/22/civilization-5-marked-down-to-17-altitude-free-to-play-this-we/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/22/civilization-5-marked-down-to-17-altitude-free-to-play-this-we/#comments It's far too hot to even consider crossing the threshold of your domicile this weekend. We suggest you tap into Steam's two big deals instead: Until Monday at 10 a.m. PT, Civilization V is down to $17, while the biplane combat title Altitude is half-price and free-to-play until Sunday afternoon.

Continue reading Civilization 5 marked down to $17, Altitude free-to-play this weekend on Steam

JoystiqCivilization 5 marked down to $17, Altitude free-to-play this weekend on Steam originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Jul 2011 10:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesaltitudecivilization-5Firaxis-GamespcsteamstrategyFri, 22 Jul 2011 10:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Upcoming Civilization 5 update to add 'Hot Seat' multiplayer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/11/upcoming-civilization-5-update-to-add-hot-seat-multiplayer/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/11/upcoming-civilization-5-update-to-add-hot-seat-multiplayer/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/11/upcoming-civilization-5-update-to-add-hot-seat-multiplayer/#comments As the countless hours we've poured into Dance Central and Wii Fit can attest, we're big fans of gaming activities that also help keep our bodies from atrophying into nothingness. Firaxis is sympathetic to our aerobic cause, and is implementing a bit of movement into its latest turn-based strategy title, Civilization 5: A "Hot Seat" multiplayer mode, which allows two players to take turns ... taking turns on a single computer.

Just think about how much physical activity this oft-requested gameplay mode will bring to your lengthy Civilization skirmishes! Hoisting yourself up and standing for minutes at a time, then sitting back down when your friend is done taking their turn? Why, that's practically doing squats, if you think about it. You can look forward to blasting your glutes and delts and stuff when the feature arrives in the game's next patch, which launches in June or early July.

JoystiqUpcoming Civilization 5 update to add 'Hot Seat' multiplayer originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 May 2011 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamescivilization-5Firaxis-Gameshot-seatmultiplayerpatchpcupdateWed, 11 May 2011 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Civilization 5 Viking and Explorer DLC packs now available]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/psa-civilization-5-viking-and-explorer-dlc-packs-now-available/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/psa-civilization-5-viking-and-explorer-dlc-packs-now-available/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/psa-civilization-5-viking-and-explorer-dlc-packs-now-available/#comments You spent the last week gathering up your chainmail shirt and a handy seax for battle, knowing full well that this week brought both Viking and Explorer downloadable content to Civilization V -- that's a given. But have you gotten your fancy exploring telescope oiled? Or your ship captain's wig powdered? Let's hope, as both DLC pieces are now available on Steam for $4.99 each or $7.49 together. And frankly, where would you be without your telescope at the ready?

Lost, is where.

JoystiqPSA: Civilization 5 Viking and Explorer DLC packs now available originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 May 2011 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamescivilization-5dlcdownloadable-contentexplorerfiraxisfiraxis-gamesmacpcpsapublic-service-announcementsteamvikingWed, 04 May 2011 16:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization 5 adds Viking, Explorer DLC packs next week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/28/civilization-5-adds-viking-explorer-dlc-packs-next-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/28/civilization-5-adds-viking-explorer-dlc-packs-next-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/28/civilization-5-adds-viking-explorer-dlc-packs-next-week/#comments Next Tuesday, May 3, Civilization 5 will be invaded by Vikings. The "Denmark Civilization and Scenario Pack" adds the Dutch, with Harald Bluetooth as the civilization's figurehead. It also includes the "1066: Year of Viking Destiny" scenario, which finds players competing against three others to seize control of the British Isles.

Also available next week is the "Explorers Map Pack," which adds ten new single-player maps to the game. Five of them are based on real-world locations, the other five are "scripted map environments." The maps will change from game to game and "focus on an exciting gameplay theme." Examples include an arid sandstorm, the Amazon, the Caribbean and the Bering Strait. The packs are $4.99 apiece or $7.49 as a bundle.

Continue reading Civilization 5 adds Viking, Explorer DLC packs next week

JoystiqCivilization 5 adds Viking, Explorer DLC packs next week originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Apr 2011 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>civilization-5DLCmacpcThu, 28 Apr 2011 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization 4 and 5 marked down for Amazon Deal of the Day]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/11/civilization-4-and-5-marked-down-for-amazon-deal-of-the-day/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/11/civilization-4-and-5-marked-down-for-amazon-deal-of-the-day/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/11/civilization-4-and-5-marked-down-for-amazon-deal-of-the-day/#comments When it comes to kicking off a campaign of wholesale world domination, there really is no time like the present. Actually, there's doubly no better time than the present, as both Civilization 4: The Complete Edition and Civilization 5: The Only Edition are on sale today through Amazon.

Continue reading Civilization 4 and 5 marked down for Amazon Deal of the Day

JoystiqCivilization 4 and 5 marked down for Amazon Deal of the Day originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Apr 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Civ-4Civ-IVCivilization-4civilization-5Civilization-IVcivilization-vFiraxis-GamespcSid-Meiers-Civilization-4Sid-Meiers-Civilization-IVMon, 11 Apr 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Civ 5's Polynesia DLC sets sail on Thursday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/01/civ-5-polynesia-dlc-sets-sail-on-thursday/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/01/civ-5-polynesia-dlc-sets-sail-on-thursday/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/01/civ-5-polynesia-dlc-sets-sail-on-thursday/#comments Civilization 5's premium Polynesia scenario pack and a free multiplayer map pack will be available on March 3 for the PC version of the game.

The Polyneisa DLC will include the "Paradise Found" scenario, which tasks players with becoming the dominant culture in Polynesia among four kingdoms. The Polynesian civilization is represented by Kamehameha; who brings with him Maori warriors, Maoi statues and the ability to embark on ocean tiles from the start of the game. The add-on pack will cost $5 (£3).

The free multiplayer map pack will include a skirmish map for one-on-one battles, a map called "Ring," which will have "enemies on your flanks," and "Ancient Lake," which features an inland sea with a "secret."

Continue reading Civ 5's Polynesia DLC sets sail on Thursday

JoystiqCiv 5's Polynesia DLC sets sail on Thursday originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Mar 2011 00:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamescivilization-5DLCFiraxispcpolynesiapolynesia-scenario-packTue, 01 Mar 2011 00:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dragon Quest VI, Medal of Honor, and a bunch of Wii music items in Amazon Gold Box]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/23/dragon-quest-vi-medal-of-honor-and-a-bunch-of-wii-music-items/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/23/dragon-quest-vi-medal-of-honor-and-a-bunch-of-wii-music-items/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/23/dragon-quest-vi-medal-of-honor-and-a-bunch-of-wii-music-items/#commentsAmazon is offering a spate of gaming deals in its Gold Box today, revealing a new time-limited offer every couple of hours. Strangely, the discounts are about half Wii music-game themed -- things like the Wii versions of Michael Jackson: The Experience (the Deal of the Day at $30), Rock Band 3, and Dance Dance Revolution.

However, the non-Wii part includes savings on the DS version of Plants vs. Zombies, Dragon Quest VI, Civilization V and others, so the lack of a fully committed theme is forgivable. Find the list after the break.

Continue reading Dragon Quest VI, Medal of Honor, and a bunch of Wii music items in Amazon Gold Box

JoystiqDragon Quest VI, Medal of Honor, and a bunch of Wii music items in Amazon Gold Box originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Feb 2011 10:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazoncivilization-5deal-of-the-daydragon-quest-vidsgold-boxmedal-of-honormichael-jackson-the-experiencemicrosoftnintendopcplaystationps3rock-bandrock-band-3wiixboxWed, 23 Feb 2011 10:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization 4 and 5 on sale this weekend through Steam]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/18/civilization-4-and-5-on-sale-this-weekend-through-steam/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/18/civilization-4-and-5-on-sale-this-weekend-through-steam/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/18/civilization-4-and-5-on-sale-this-weekend-through-steam/#comments Two Civilization titles that are sure to stand the test of time are on sale this weekend through Steam. Civilization 4: The Complete Edition is $7.50, 75 percent off the regular price. It includes the core game, plus the two expansion packs (Warlords & Beyond the Sword), along with the Civ 4 spin-off Colonization.

Civilization 5, in both the regular and "digital deluxe" editions, is 40 percent off, allowing your wallet to complete download production of the games for $29.99 and $35.99, respectively. This civilized offer will be extinguished next Monday.

[Thanks, Steve]

JoystiqCivilization 4 and 5 on sale this weekend through Steam originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Feb 2011 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesCivilization-4Civilization-5FiraxisFiraxis-gamesMacPcFri, 18 Feb 2011 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Civilization 5 DLC now available on Mac]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/11/psa-civilization-5-dlc-now-available-on-mac/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/11/psa-civilization-5-dlc-now-available-on-mac/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/11/psa-civilization-5-dlc-now-available-on-mac/#comments Rejoice, citizens of the Grand Kingdom of Macintosh! You've been forced long enough to live without the premium, downloadable Civilization 5 content that's been available to your cousins of the Land of Windows for ages. The DLC, which unlocks new civilizations for various prices -- except the Mongol expansion, which is free and installs automatically when running the game through Steam -- is now available for all Mac users.

You can grab the "Mediterranean," "Mesopotamia," "Asia" and "Americas" expansions for $2.99 each (or $9.99 as a bundle), or the "Babylon Civilization pack" and "Spain and Inca pack" for $4.99 a pop (or $7.99 for the pair). Our position on which one you should buy first should be well known by this point, but if not, here's a hint: You should buy the civilization responsible for the music of both Bruce Springsteen and Menudo. That's a cultural powerhouse if we've ever heard one.

JoystiqPSA: Civilization 5 DLC now available on Mac originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 Feb 2011 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamescivilization-5dlcFiraxis-GamesmacsteamFri, 11 Feb 2011 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Stardock hires Civ V designer Jon Shafer and fantasy writer Dave Stern]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/04/stardock-hires-civ-v-designer-jon-shafer-and-fantasy-writer-dave/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/04/stardock-hires-civ-v-designer-jon-shafer-and-fantasy-writer-dave/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/04/stardock-hires-civ-v-designer-jon-shafer-and-fantasy-writer-dave/#commentsIt was odd to hear about Jon Shafer leaving Firaxis a couple weeks back, what with him being an avid member of the Civ community and lead designer on the latest iteration, Civilization V -- a game our own Alexander Sliwinski called "a 'friendly' strategy game."

During an interview with our sister site Big Download, Shafer once again stated he'd left Firaxis on good terms and will help Stardock on its newest title, Elemental: War of Magic, as well as an unannounced project he'll be overseeing.

Stardock also announced it has hired acclaimed fantasy author Dave Stern to "oversee creative storytelling and lore implementation in all future projects." Stern, who has penned various Star Trek works and novelizations of the Tomb Raider and Blair Witch Project movies, will get right to work on enriching the world of Elemental: War of Magic, which Stardock CEO Brad Wardell admits was "one of the things we felt was weak."

Specifically, Stern will "head up all further integration of the Elemental: War of Magic lore" in the game, which will see two upcoming expansions where "lore implementation will be essential."

Continue reading Stardock hires Civ V designer Jon Shafer and fantasy writer Dave Stern

JoystiqStardock hires Civ V designer Jon Shafer and fantasy writer Dave Stern originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 Jan 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CivilizationCivilization-5dave-sternelemental-war-of-magicjon-shaferlorepcstardockTue, 04 Jan 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Best of the Rest: Alexander's picks of 2010]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/01/best-of-the-rest-alexanders-picks-of-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/01/best-of-the-rest-alexanders-picks-of-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/01/best-of-the-rest-alexanders-picks-of-2010/#comments Dance Central
This is how the dancing genre should be done. Harmonix brought it on and stepped it up with Dance Central, a full-body follow-the-choreography game that showed off Microsoft's Kinect tech and ended up being the device's killer app at launch. Authoritative, yet fun, Dance Central felt like the first step in a franchise that could potentially have an amazing future.

Dance Central 2 is a given and I can't wait to see what it delivers. Harmonix has shown us with Rock Band that it can rapidly build upon a core foundation. Chained dance routines? Online dance battles? Customizable routines? It's probably all on the table... and I would dance on that table using a stripper pole for all of it. But, my gawd, I would give anything for the option to remove or exchange freestyle sections for more moves.

Continue reading Best of the Rest: Alexander's picks of 2010

JoystiqBest of the Rest: Alexander's picks of 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 01 Jan 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1-vs-100best-of-the-restbest-of-the-rest-2010Civilization-5dance-centralDarksidersJust-Cause-2microsoftpcplaystationps3pspsonyvalkyria-chronicles-2xboxSat, 01 Jan 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization 5 lead designer Jon Shafer leaves Firaxis]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/21/civilization-5-lead-designer-jon-shafer-leaves-firaxis/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/21/civilization-5-lead-designer-jon-shafer-leaves-firaxis/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/21/civilization-5-lead-designer-jon-shafer-leaves-firaxis/#commentsJon Shafer Lead designer for Civilization 5, Jon Shafer, has left Firaxis, his LinkedIn profile shows (via Flash of Steel). Shafer, who's been with the company for over five years and a longtime member of the franchise's devout modding scene, was the biggest proponent for uploading and sharing custom maps in this year's entry.

Shafer revealed to the Flash of Steel blog that he was not let go from Firaxis -- he resigned on his own, apparently. We've reached out to Shafer and 2K Games for further comment.
[Image credit: Firaxis]

JoystiqCivilization 5 lead designer Jon Shafer leaves Firaxis originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Dec 2010 15:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamescivilization-5firaxisjon-shaferpcreal-time-strategyrtsTue, 21 Dec 2010 15:10:00 EST