Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[iPad Roundup: Here's the stuff that may interest you]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/02/ipad-roundup-heres-the-stuff-that-may-interest-you/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/02/ipad-roundup-heres-the-stuff-that-may-interest-you/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/02/ipad-roundup-heres-the-stuff-that-may-interest-you/#comments With the iPad set to launch April 3, we know a lot of you out there are wondering what types of games and apps there are to look forward to. Well, we reprogrammed the Joystiq bots to scour the iTunes App store for information on updates and new games, culling the data for you all. There's plenty to look forward to, so don't waste time reading this -- head past the break for the goods!

Continue reading iPad Roundup: Here's the stuff that may interest you

JoystiqiPad Roundup: Here's the stuff that may interest you originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Apr 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>10-ton-games-inc2k-gamesactivisionamazon-hidden-expeditionangry-birdsangry-birds-hdapple-ipadasphaltasphalt-5azkend-hdbig-fish-gamesbreak-hdcall-of-dutycall-of-duty-world-at-warcall-of-duty-world-at-war-zombiescastlecraftcharadiumchillingoCivilizationcivilization-revolutioncogscogs-hdCommand-and-Conquercommand-and-conquer-red-alertdoonsdoons-hddungeon-hunterdungeon-hunter-hdeaElectronic-Artsfieldrunnersfiremintfiremint-incflick-bowlingflick-fishingflight-controlflight-control-hdfreeversefroggerfrogger-padgameloftgeometry-warsgluglyder-2imahjongimahjong-hdipadipad-launcjirbokonamilaminar-researcglets-golfmarvelmarvel-comicsmarvel-comics-appmetal-gear-solidmetal-gear-solid-touchminigoreminigore-hdmirrors-edgemodern-combatmodern-combat-sandstormnamconba-hotshotneed-for-speedneed-for-speed-shiftnflnfl-2010nfl-2010-hdngmoconovapac-manpaper-footballpaper-football-hdplants-vs-zombiesplants-vs-zombies-hdpopcappopcap-gamesreal-racingreal-racing-hdreal-soccerreal-soccer-2010-hdsam-and-maxscrabblesecret-exit-ltdsegasneeziessneezies-hdsnowboardingsnowboarding-hdsparkle-hdsubatomicsubatomic-studiossuper-monkey-ballsuper-monkey-ball-2super-monkey-ball-2-sakura-editionteam-17telltale-gamestetristhe-penal-zoneunouno-hdwarpgatewe-rulex-planezen-boundzen-bound-2Fri, 02 Apr 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Civ Rev, BioShock join Xbox Games on Demand (check your region)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/08/civ-rev-bioshock-join-xbox-games-on-demand-check-your-region/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/08/civ-rev-bioshock-join-xbox-games-on-demand-check-your-region/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/08/civ-rev-bioshock-join-xbox-games-on-demand-check-your-region/#comments
Xbox 360's Games on Demand offering has been updated with the addictive Civilization Revolution and the sublime BioShock for the European regions.
  • Civilization Revolution -- Available in Canada, Germany and the US for $30.
  • BioShock -- Europe (already available in the US) for £19.99, which seems a bit high.
There is also an update for the Japanese region, which adds Earth Defense Force 3, Armored Core 4 and Wartech: Senko no Ronde for 2000. We feel obligated to mention that these prices seem to miss the point of digital distribution from the consumer perspective.

JoystiqCiv Rev, BioShock join Xbox Games on Demand (check your region) originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armored-core-4bioshockcivilization-revolutionearth-defense-force-3games-on-demandwartech-senko-no-rondeTue, 08 Sep 2009 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Impressions: Civilization Revolution on iPhone]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/10/impressions-civilization-revolution-on-iphone/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/10/impressions-civilization-revolution-on-iphone/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/10/impressions-civilization-revolution-on-iphone/#comments 2K Games' Civilization Revolution is ready to explore, expand, exploit and exterminate on iPhone/iPod Touch, having sneaked its way onto the App Store today. The full version is a bargain at $5 and comes with the standard game, along with a little under a dozen scenarios.

We had an opportunity to spend a fair amount of time with the game prior to release. Developed by 2K Games China and overseen by Firaxis, the iPhone version is a faithful translation of the Civ Rev experience that works intuitively on the platform's touch screen. Anyone that's played the game on another platform will instantly know what's going on and ease right into the experience.

Civ Rev on the iPhone is certainly as addictive as it is on other systems, but not without some issues. First, and most likely to be fixed, is that the version we played had awkward sound spikes. The volume would be fine one second, get really loud and then go back to normal. It's not so bad when you're at home, but definitely not good on a train or with earphones on. The other thing is that the art style appears to be an evolution from the DS version of the game, which wasn't exactly the nicest thing to look at. The iPhone likely has the power to bring a little more pretty than what's seen in the game. It's like an actor wearing Old Navy to a Hollywood premiere; sure, they look good, but you know they could have done better.

Civ Rev on the iPhone/iPod Touch brings the epic experience to those looking for a 4x strategy title on their Apple handheld. It may not be all it could have been on the eyes, but it definitely pokes the organ it's supposed to properly -- your brain.

Gallery: Civilization Revolution iPhone

maintitleancientscreencatapultvsunknowntroops_01lincoln1sf1_greatwonder_slightlyobstructed

JoystiqImpressions: Civilization Revolution on iPhone originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Aug 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-games2k-games-chinaAppleciv-revciv-rev-iphonecivilization-revolutionFiraxis-GamesiPodSid-Meiers-Civilization-RevolutionStrategyMon, 10 Aug 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization Revolution available now on iPhone]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/10/civilization-revolution-available-now-on-iphone/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/10/civilization-revolution-available-now-on-iphone/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/10/civilization-revolution-available-now-on-iphone/#comments
Civilization Revolution has apparently made it's way to the iPhone and its purchase can now be rushed for $5. There is also a "lite" version of the game to test things out.

It's good to finally see an epic strategy title make its way to the iPhone/iPod touch. We'll have our impressions of the game up shortly (like, a couple hours from now). Impressions are go.

JoystiqCivilization Revolution available now on iPhone originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Aug 2009 10:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-GamesAppleciv-revCivilizationcivilization-revolutionFiraxis-GamesiPodSid-Meiers-Civilization-RevolutionStrategyMon, 10 Aug 2009 10:44:00 EST<![CDATA[DS releases for the week of January 26th]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/26/ds-releases-for-the-week-of-january-26th/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/26/ds-releases-for-the-week-of-january-26th/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/26/ds-releases-for-the-week-of-january-26th/#commentsFiled under:


There's plenty available to DS gamers this week. Heck, when is that not the case? Gosh, we love the DS. It just gets so many darn good games. Like, all of the time. So, check out which games are going to be begging for your money this week below.

This week's North American releases are:
  • The Chase: Felix Meets Felicity
  • Imagine: Cheerleader
  • Jojo's Fashion Show
  • Coraline
Head past the break for the rest of this week's releases around the globe.

Continue reading DS releases for the week of January 26th

JoystiqDS releases for the week of January 26th originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Jan 2009 11:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomcivilization-revolutioneaechoes-of-timeffccfinal-fantasymaxisneopetsreleasessim-animalssquare-enixMon, 26 Jan 2009 11:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization Revolution pack-in DLC available for redemption]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/15/civilization-revolution-pack-in-dlc-available-for-redemption/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/15/civilization-revolution-pack-in-dlc-available-for-redemption/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/15/civilization-revolution-pack-in-dlc-available-for-redemption/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Those who purchased Civilization Revolution know the game shipped with a pack-in card with a code to download exclusive content based on their retailer of choice. The only problem is, the content was not available when the game launched. A few days ago the 2K Games Code Redemption site updated to reveal pack-in cards can now be used to download the free pack via the Xbox Live Marketplace. Using the code found packed in with your copy of Civilization Revolution, gamers can get a Marketplace code good for a download of fresh content for the turn-based strategy game. What is the content? Well, that depends where you bought your copy of the game. Jump in to find out.

[Thanks, Frosty22]

Continue reading Civilization Revolution pack-in DLC available for redemption

JoystiqCivilization Revolution pack-in DLC available for redemption originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Aug 2008 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamescivilization-revolutiondlcdownloadable-contentfiraxisFri, 15 Aug 2008 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Daily: The other Wi-Fi]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/15/ds-daily-the-other-wi-fi/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/15/ds-daily-the-other-wi-fi/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/15/ds-daily-the-other-wi-fi/#commentsFiled under: ,

While there are lots of DS games that support online multiplayer over the Nintendo Wi-Fi connection, there are also many titles that use the service for some other online content. Level sharing is becoming a more common feature, and even downloadable content is available in a few games (though sometimes, it seems to really just be unlockable content). While we know many gamers crave online mutliplayer to extend the fun and replay values of their games, we're finding that these other uses for Nintendo's Wi-Fi can be just as interesting. Sometimes, of course, they're mediocre, but that's par for the proverbial course with any feature. The question is -- do you enjoy these options? Do you remember to use them? Have you unlocked puzzles in Professor Layton and the Curious Village or check out Civilization Revolution's games of the week?

JoystiqDS Daily: The other Wi-Fi originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Aug 2008 09:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>civilization-revolutiondlcdownloadable-contentlevel-sharingprofessor-laytonFri, 15 Aug 2008 09:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization Revolution gets 1.20 patch]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/07/civilization-revolution-gets-1-20-patch/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/07/civilization-revolution-gets-1-20-patch/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/07/civilization-revolution-gets-1-20-patch/#commentsFiled under:

If you have Civilization Revolution, you might want to pop in that disc and upgrade your game to v1.20. The new patch adds some new features, as well as fixes some problem spots. Most of the new patch has to do with preparing the game for recognizing future DLC (which we're taking as a hint will come soon), but most importantly it seems to have fixed some connectivity issues with online multiplayer. Other minor gameplay issues have been tweaked. You can see a full list of patch details after the break.

[Thanks Rafael!]

Continue reading Civilization Revolution gets 1.20 patch

JoystiqCivilization Revolution gets 1.20 patch originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Aug 2008 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamescivilization-revolutionfiraxisThu, 07 Aug 2008 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[X3F Review: Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/04/x3f-review-sid-meiers-civilization-revolution/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/04/x3f-review-sid-meiers-civilization-revolution/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/04/x3f-review-sid-meiers-civilization-revolution/#commentsFiled under:


History teaches that Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi (or "The Gandh" to his pals) was an influential spiritual and political leader of India, a man whose pacifist ways solved many political problems. According to textbooks, kissing babies, implementing civil disobedience for causes such as poverty, and being an all-around nice guy were Gandhi's favorite hobbies.

That's what history says. So there I was in 2024 A.D., trying to bring the Greeks to greatness while mostly minding my own business, and Gandhi decides to show his dark side. Let's be allies, he said. We'll share technologies, he said. Family barbecues, he said. Next thing I know, Gandhi and his lackeys have Sparta, my main science city, completely surrounded by tanks and bombers, the Americans took back New Orleans by overcoming my tank with a catapult (it was a really, really big rock) and Cleopatra decides to stab me in the back by taking the 1200 gold I paid her to attack the Indians for 10 turns and signing a peace treaty with The Gandh after only five turns!

All of that, and why? Because my trigger finger was slick with sweat and accidentally nuked India? Big deal! I said I was sorry!

If there's a video game that better demonstrates the medium's potential for non-authorial storytelling better than Sid Meier's Civilization, I've yet to play it. Rewriting history to my design always proves more fun than decapitating zombies or battling any number of demons. For years, the appeal of Sid Meier's "One more turn!" opus has been enjoyed primarily by PC gamers with ten-plus hours to kill if they want to experience a complete campaign.

Probably to the chagrin of significant others across the globe, Firaxis Games released Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution in early July, a Civ developed specifically for consoles that, while not as deep an experience as any PC version of Civilization, is more than enough to captivate couch-bound gamers looking for something more involved than the never-ending stream of FPS titles.

Continue reading X3F Review: Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution

JoystiqX3F Review: Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Aug 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>civilization-revolutionfiraxisfiraxis-gamessid-meierMon, 04 Aug 2008 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Show and Tell: Surviving Civilization Revolution]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/show-and-tell-surviving-civilization-revolution/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/show-and-tell-surviving-civilization-revolution/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/show-and-tell-surviving-civilization-revolution/#commentsFiled under: , ,

This week is a bit of a departure from the regular Show and Tell format, but if you think about it, we're not really making much of a turn. We've celebrated the products of all sorts of fandom in this space, but there's one devoted group we haven't addressed: the writers of guides and walkthroughs and FAQs of all sorts.

Maybe you've looked a few things up now and again: a short cut, a question about deleting a save, or a hint when you were stuck. Guides are freely available, and there are all different sorts ... and most of them are written by just plain folks. So why are we bringing it up? The folks at WiiHD recently put out a preview of sorts for the recent release Civilization Revolution -- a preview that includes vital game information. There's no Civilopedia in the DS version of the title (for the uninitiated: the massive information files common in Civ games). Even veteran Civ players might miss the information in the new handheld for its descriptions of unit capabilities, terrain types, and resources.

Luckily, fans have swept in to fill the void. WiiHD isn't the only site working to provide information to new (and old) Civilization Revolution players. We've got a list of a few of the guides after the break, and we offer our hearty thanks to the people who work to put them together. That's really all this week is about: the people who take the time to help others with their gaming. Next week, we'll be back to the stuff.

Show and Tell is all about your stuff, so long as it's Nintendo-related. We love to see your collections, your crafts, your frosted creations, your t-shirts and swag of all sorts. Just snap a few pictures, tell us what's up, and send it all to showmeit [at] dsfanboy [dot] com. We'll take care of the rest.

Continue reading Show and Tell: Surviving Civilization Revolution

JoystiqShow and Tell: Surviving Civilization Revolution originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Jul 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesappreciationcivilization-revolutionguideswalkthroughsTue, 15 Jul 2008 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Big Versus compares Civilization Revolution to PC predecessors]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/12/big-versus-compares-civilization-revolution-to-pc-predecessors/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/12/big-versus-compares-civilization-revolution-to-pc-predecessors/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/12/big-versus-compares-civilization-revolution-to-pc-predecessors/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Wipe away those tears, sunken-eyed PC loyalists. We know you're upset that Firaxis appears to have turned their back on you in favor of the somewhat fairer console waters, but perhaps the latest edition of Big Versus on Joystiq's youngest sibling, Big Download, will mend your tattered hearts. The console-exclusive Civilization Revolution is measured against the PC-exclusive Civilization IV in this installment -- are PC gamers being robbed of an important chapter in the seminal turn-based strategy franchise, or are they dodging a dumbed-down, oversimplified bullet? You've got to read to find out -- but knowing you brainy PC types, that shouldn't be a problem.

JoystiqBig Versus compares Civilization Revolution to PC predecessors originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 12 Jul 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-Gamesbig-versusCiv-4Civ-IVCiv-RevCivilizationCivilization-4civilization-ivCivilization-RevolutionDSFiraxis-GamesMicrosoftNintendoPCSid-Meiers-Civilization-4Sid-Meiers-Civilization-IVSid-Meiers-Civilization-RevolutionstrategyXbox-360Sat, 12 Jul 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WRUP: Leading the revolution edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/11/wrup-leading-the-revolution-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/11/wrup-leading-the-revolution-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/11/wrup-leading-the-revolution-edition/#commentsFiled under:

Without a doubt, the biggest and best release of this week is Civilization Revolution. We're big fans of that Sid Meier guy, so his latest game immediately won us over. You can bet we'll be spending a large amount of time this weekend taking Abe Lincoln and the Americans to the top (their bonuses are just too awesome to ignore).

What about you all? Going to lead the revolution, as we are, or are you playing something else? How will you fill these last few days leading up to E3 2008?

JoystiqWRUP: Leading the revolution edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 Jul 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k2k-gamescivilizationcivilization-revolutionfiraxissid-meiersimstrategyFri, 11 Jul 2008 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization Revolution comes with a mini-poster surprise]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/civilization-revolution-comes-with-a-mini-poster-surprise/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/civilization-revolution-comes-with-a-mini-poster-surprise/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/civilization-revolution-comes-with-a-mini-poster-surprise/#commentsFiled under: ,

What's better than a pin-up of Izuna? Well, a pin-up of Napoleon, for starters. Bow chicka wow wow.

In all seriousness, we do like this Civilzation Revolution DS poster better (although this blogger isn't exactly in hormone-crazy young male demographic that the Izuna pieces are meant to appeal to). Hormones aside, though, Napoleon is looking pretty badass here, and we're confident he could even conquer the Ziggy Pig looking like he does.

So, how do you get one? As with Izuna, this mini-poster comes as reversible cover art, so all you have to do is buy the game. We're starting to get spoiled here, though, and soon we're going to demand that every DS title comes with such an awesome feature.

[Thanks to ChristianBK for the tip and picture!]

JoystiqCivilization Revolution comes with a mini-poster surprise originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Jul 2008 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k2k-gamescivilizationcivilization-revolutionfiraxismini-posternapoleonposterstrategyThu, 10 Jul 2008 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview: Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/09/metareview-sid-meiers-civilization-revolution/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/09/metareview-sid-meiers-civilization-revolution/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/09/metareview-sid-meiers-civilization-revolution/#commentsFiled under:


We may have weighed in on the portable title, but what about the rest of the reviewers out there? Now that the title has been available for a little while now, many of the critics have put out their verdict. And, just as we enjoyed the game, the majority of them also found it to be a good time.
  • Game Informer (85/100) gives it a good score: "Some few sacrifices have been made, notably the absence of the in-game Civilopedia, and the control is nowhere near as smooth as it is on a gamepad. However, you won't find a deeper or more replayable portable strategy experience anywhere. Civilization Revolution is a very worthwhile investment for any strategically minded DS owner."
  • Gamespy (80/100) says it's barebones, but good: "While it won't be winning any beauty contests with its barebones 2D graphics, the play's the thing and the combination of solid controls and lots of content in the form of the technologies, units and variegated civilizations make Civ Rev an enjoyable and entertaining romp through the traditionally staid and somber realm of nation management."
  • Nintendo Power (75/100) said the game lacks any competition: "If you're a fan of the genre, there are few better ways to get your fix on the go." [Aug 2008, p.89]
  • GameZone (75/100) says the DS version loses a bit compared to the consoles, but is still a good choice for on-the-go action: "Civilization Revolution is a solid entry to the series, bringing the experience to a whole new audience. While the DS version loses a little bit in the translation, it's still worth a look from hardcore series fans looking for a portable version of their fix."

JoystiqMetareview: Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Jul 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k2k-gamescivilizationcivilization-revolutionfiraxisstrategyWed, 09 Jul 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[DS releases for the week of July 7th]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/07/ds-releases-for-the-week-of-july-7th/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/07/ds-releases-for-the-week-of-july-7th/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/07/ds-releases-for-the-week-of-july-7th/#commentsFiled under:

Civilization Revolution may be a wacky departure from the main Civilization series, but as of this week it has at least one thing in common with its predecessors: people can buy it! It's also related, however tenuously, to the only other DS game coming out this week, Carnival Games. Both are published by 2K, yes, and both are designed for casual play, to wildly varying degrees. For Civilization Revolution, "casual" means "more casual than Civ," and for Carnival Games, it means "let the dog play while you take a break to make lunch."
  • Carnival Games
  • Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution
After the break, the rest of the world's releases. Europe gets more than two! Japan gets way more than two, including the new Stafy game!

Continue reading DS releases for the week of July 7th

JoystiqDS releases for the week of July 7th originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 07 Jul 2008 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bakushowcarnival-gamescivilization-revolutionreleasesstafyMon, 07 Jul 2008 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Shipping this week: Time machine edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/07/shipping-this-week-time-machine-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/07/shipping-this-week-time-machine-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/07/shipping-this-week-time-machine-edition/#commentsFiled under: ,


When you scan the new 360 releases this week, you may feel a sense of déjà vu. "Unreal Tournament III," you will say, "didn't that come out eight months ago?" Fear not, however, for your eyes do not deceive you. The Xbox 360 version of Unreal Tournament III has finally released, bereft of user created content though it may be. Presenting us with another trip back in time is Civilization Revolution, which has players building their ... civilizations from ancient times all the way into the space age. If you haven't given the demo a try, we suggest you do. It's good fun. Finally, we have Beijing Olympics 2008. We're guessing that one involves a lot of button mashing and stick twirling. You'd best prepare for the calluses now.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqShipping this week: Time machine edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 07 Jul 2008 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesbeijing-olympicsbeijing-olympics-2008civilization-revolutionepicepic-gameseurocomfiraxissegashipping-this-weekunrealunreal-tournament-iiiut-3ut-iiiutiiiMon, 07 Jul 2008 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New games this week: Civilization Revolution edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/07/new-games-this-week-civilization-revolution-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/07/new-games-this-week-civilization-revolution-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/07/new-games-this-week-civilization-revolution-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Listen, we're excited by this week's biggest new release Civilization Revolution, but it looks to us like it's going to play pretty fast and loose with the truth. How can we tell? Well, let's take a look at the box art. It looks fine, right? Until you realize that Napoleon is towering over Genghis Khan!

Napoloean, as the less educated among you (and Firaxis) perhaps do not know, was 2-feet, 4-inches tall, so the thought of him being taller than anyone, let alone some of history's greatest leaders, is an affront to logic itself. The only thing we can imagine is that Lincoln is on his knees and Napoleon is standing on a apple crate of some sort, in which case we can only suggest that Honest Abe needs new representation.

Gallery: Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution

Continue reading New games this week: Civilization Revolution edition

JoystiqNew games this week: Civilization Revolution edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 07 Jul 2008 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-GamesCiv-RevCivilizationcivilization-revolutionDSFiraxis-GamesMicrosoftnewgamesNintendoPCPS2PS3PSPSid-Meiers-Civilization-RevolutionStrategyWiiXbox-360Mon, 07 Jul 2008 09:15:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Fanboy Review: Civilization Revolution]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/ds-fanboy-review-civilization-revolution/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/ds-fanboy-review-civilization-revolution/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/ds-fanboy-review-civilization-revolution/#commentsFiled under:


Few games have inspired as many different reactions -- all heated, all extreme -- in me as Civilization Revolution. There are few aspects of the game that are just "okay" for me; everything is either really awesome or really annoying, and in the end, it's difficult to condense all of those feelings into a simple yea or nay. The short version is that Civilization Revolution is a pretty good DS game. As a Civ game ... well, it's different.

Civilization is an intense experience. After all, you're starting with a few guys dressed in ill-fitting skins and attempting to conquer the world through a variety of strategies. The games are often enormous, sprawling across a map that can take up most of the globe (oceans be damned), and due to the sheer size of the games, they've just never worked well on consoles. This game changes that, but in a very intriguing way. Civilization Revolution isn't a port. It's not a remake, or even really a reimagining. It's a complete rebuild, with such radical changes in some areas that it hardly feels like the same game, and yet, the base gameplay of one of the world's best turn-based strategy franchises somehow manages to remain intact. It's not without flaws -- and some are pretty serious -- but Civilization Revolution does manage to accomplish a very simple goal, and that's stripping down Civ and making it a manageable (and fun!) portable experience.

Continue reading DS Fanboy Review: Civilization Revolution

JoystiqDS Fanboy Review: Civilization Revolution originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Jul 2008 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamescivilizationcivilization-revolutionfiraxisjoystiqfeaturesstrategyThu, 03 Jul 2008 08:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on: Taking on the world in Civilization Revolution]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/25/taking-on-the-world-in-civilization-revolution/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/25/taking-on-the-world-in-civilization-revolution/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/25/taking-on-the-world-in-civilization-revolution/#commentsFiled under: ,


It's something of an understatement to say that I like the Civilization franchise. I've been playing the games for a decade, and they rank highly on my list of all-time favorites. That means it's difficult for me to look at Civilization Revolution as something outside of the norm -- which it is -- because it looks and feels in many ways like Civ. Looks (and feelings) can be deceiving, however, because this isn't Civ, not really, and that works both for and against the simplified strategy game.

There have been other console Civ titles, and they've all been lacking. The mouse-and-keyboard setup is so integral to managing a huge game that taking it to the controller has just never worked, at least not for me, and attempts to streamline the game in the past simply haven't been terribly successful. That hasn't stopped them from trying, and trying again, and with Civilization Revolution, the result is a lot better than some of the past efforts.

Continue reading Hands-on: Taking on the world in Civilization Revolution

JoystiqHands-on: Taking on the world in Civilization Revolution originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Jun 2008 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamescivilization-revolutionfiraxisjoystiqfeaturessid-meierstrategyWed, 25 Jun 2008 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview (Euro Edition) -- Civilization Revolution (Xbox 360, PS3)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/metareview-euro-edition-civilization-revolution-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/metareview-euro-edition-civilization-revolution-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/metareview-euro-edition-civilization-revolution-xbox-360/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution is out in the PAL lands and reviews on the "accessible," console-centric interpretation of the epic franchise are coming in. The common thread running through many of the reviews (for better or worse) is that Revolution isn't a console port of the PC's excellent Civilization IV; a point the developers have been incessantly repeating since Revolution was first shown last year. The Xbox 360, PS3 and DS versions of Civ Rev will be available in North America July 8.
  • Xbox World 360 (85/100): "Away from the main single-player campaign you'll find a number of scenarios to tackle, there's the promise of a free downloadable 'game of the week' and the Live multiplayer options are comprehensive. While far from as deep as the PC games, Revolution is a fine achievement, extremely accessible and great fun to play."
  • Eurogamer (80/100): "Unfortunately, I'd be lying, as the many punches Civ Rev pulls means its exhilaration is so often followed by slight dissatisfaction. An 8 may not be enough to convince cynical minds to suck it and see, which is a terrible shame. This slick new Civilization may be more reduction than Revolution, but it's easily one of the most distinctive games on 360 and PS3."
  • NZGamer (75/100): "For new players, it may be a stepping stone to true greatness. Fans of the older Civ games may enjoy it for nostalgia. It may also serve as a 'nicotine patch' for megalomaniacs; a healthier alternative to wasting whole days taking over the world. The serious Civ fans, however, should keep to their PCs: this one isn't for them."

JoystiqMetareview (Euro Edition) -- Civilization Revolution (Xbox 360, PS3) originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Jun 2008 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>civ-revcivilizationcivilization-revolutionDSmetareviewPS3Xbox-360Tue, 24 Jun 2008 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sid Meier: We're not turning our backs on Wii]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/sid-meier-were-not-turning-our-backs-on-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/sid-meier-were-not-turning-our-backs-on-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/sid-meier-were-not-turning-our-backs-on-wii/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


In GameDaily's 10 Questions feature, Sid Meier explains what happened to the delayed Wii version of his upcoming console-based Civilization Revolution. Meier explains that the company is still trying to decide what to do about the Wii version, but says the console is fantastic and they have "no intentions of turning [their] backs on it."

With work now finished on the Xbox 360, PS3 and DS versions of Civ Rev, it appears the title is on track for a July 8 release. The Civ Rev demo is currently available on Xbox 360 and PS3 to try out the streamlined, yet surprisingly Civ-feeling, console game.

JoystiqSid Meier: We're not turning our backs on Wii originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Jun 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>civ-revcivilizationcivilization-revolutionmeierPCPS3sid-meierWiiXbox-360Tue, 10 Jun 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization Revolution gets techy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/civilization-revolution-gets-techy/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/civilization-revolution-gets-techy/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/civilization-revolution-gets-techy/#commentsFiled under:

Dying for details on Civilization: Revolution? Yearning to know just what the reward will be if you're the first to get Masonry? Wonder no more, for the (incomplete) tech tree from the PS3/Xbox 360 demo versions of the game is available after the break. The DS version, it is worth noting, features the same gameplay, so the tree will apply.

Some technologies are locked and unavailable in the demo, so everything isn't covered here, but thanks to Sigmakan at the 2K forums, we've got a pretty good idea of what we'll be racing for -- and how we'll use it -- then the game hits our beloved handheld early next month.

Continue reading Civilization Revolution gets techy

JoystiqCivilization Revolution gets techy originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Jun 2008 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamescivilizationcivilization-revolutionfiraxisstrategytech-treeMon, 09 Jun 2008 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PSN Thursday: Novastrike, Civ Rev demo, Commando 3, much more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/psn-thursday-novastrike-civ-rev-demo-commando-3-much-more/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/psn-thursday-novastrike-civ-rev-demo-commando-3-much-more/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/psn-thursday-novastrike-civ-rev-demo-commando-3-much-more/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Big fat update this week. For starters, it's time for PS3 owners to jump in the pool and try out the Civilization Revolution demo. So far, our thoughts are positive, but conflicted. PC Civilization players will jump right in and notice some major changes, but will console gamers find joy in the methodical (yet incredibly streamlined) Civ gameplay?

Enough thinking, what about some twitch action? The free God of War theme for GH III is available today, along with the PSN's first game self-published by a developer, Novastrike. Also, storming out of left field is Wolf of the Battlefield: Commando 3. There's also a couple other nice additions in this week's update, so check it out after the break.

The PS3 Fanboy's got your European PSN update on their site, but be sure to bring chocolates. They like chocolates.

Continue reading PSN Thursday: Novastrike, Civ Rev demo, Commando 3, much more

JoystiqPSN Thursday: Novastrike, Civ Rev demo, Commando 3, much more originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Jun 2008 20:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>civilization-revolutioncommando-3ghiiigod-of-warguitar-heroguitar-hero-iiinovastrikePS3psnpsn-storepsn-thursdayPSPThu, 05 Jun 2008 20:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Bad Company and Civilization demos now on XBLM]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/bad-company-and-civilization-demos-now-on-xblm/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/bad-company-and-civilization-demos-now-on-xblm/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/bad-company-and-civilization-demos-now-on-xblm/#commentsFiled under: ,

Today, we're officially declaring it an Xbox Live Marketplace Demo Extravaganza day, because we're seeing the release of not just one, but TWO super new video game demos to the XBLM. Like we said, it's a demo extravaganza!

First up is a new 1.25GB Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution demo, featuring both single and multiplayer play and enough turn based strategy to shake a stick at. And for those of you who didn't win early access last week, the new 1.5GB Battlefield: Bad Company single (slash) multiplayer demo is ready to be consumed by you, the masses. Hit up the XBLM, queue some demo deliciousness up for download and get your game on.

JoystiqBad Company and Civilization demos now on XBLM originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Jun 2008 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k2k-gamesbad-companybattlefield-bad-companycivilization-revolutiondiceeasid-meiers-civilization-revolutionxblmThu, 05 Jun 2008 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization Revolution demo tomorrow for Xbox 360 and PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/civilization-revolution-demo-tomorrow-for-xbox-360-and-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/civilization-revolution-demo-tomorrow-for-xbox-360-and-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/civilization-revolution-demo-tomorrow-for-xbox-360-and-ps3/#commentsFiled under: ,

Gamespot reports that a demo for console-centric Civilization Revolution will be available tomorrow on Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3. The demo will fill about 1.08 gigglebytes of hard drive space and include both single and multiplayer demos. Players will have the option of playing as Cleopatra or Caesar up until 1250 AD in the turn-based strategy game.

The demo will become available tomorrow beginning at 5AM EST on Xbox Live and as part of the PSN update sometime during the afternoon. We're definitely looking forward to testing out the demo and seeing if our civilization will stand the test of time survive until 1250 AD. Civilization Revolution is currently scheduled to release on July 8 for Xbox 360, PS3 and DS.

[Via X3F, Thanks Jonah]

JoystiqCivilization Revolution demo tomorrow for Xbox 360 and PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Jun 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-GamesCiv-Revcivilizationcivilization-revolutiondemoFiraxis-GamesMicrosoftPS3Sid-Meiers-Civilization-RevolutionStrategyXbox-360Wed, 04 Jun 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization Revolution demo hitting Thursday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/civilization-revolution-demo-hitting-thursday/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/civilization-revolution-demo-hitting-thursday/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/civilization-revolution-demo-hitting-thursday/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The turn-based strategy genre is rather under represented on the 360 and the upcoming Civilization Revolution should help to fix that. While the traditionally hardcore conquer-the-world game is rather PC centric, there are tweaks to the gameplay and control scheme that should allow console gamers to get a handle on things fast. Of course, with the release of the demo at 2am on Thursday, gamers should get the chance to give the changes a try for themselves. Games of Civ can go on for hours, so just what form the demo will take should be interesting to find out. Even if it is just a simplified port, the 360 needs to expand its library with more games like this, so give the demo a download tomorrow.

JoystiqCivilization Revolution demo hitting Thursday originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Jun 2008 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>civ-revcivilizationcivilization-revolutionsid-meierWed, 04 Jun 2008 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Civ Revolution delayed until July, Sid Meier enters Guinness records]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/29/civilization-revolution-delayed-until-july-sid-meier-enters-gui/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/29/civilization-revolution-delayed-until-july-sid-meier-enters-gui/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/29/civilization-revolution-delayed-until-july-sid-meier-enters-gui/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2K Games announced today that Sid Meier has been entered into the Guinness World Records Gamer's Edition 2008 as the industry's most award-winning developer. Currently working on Civilization Revolution, Meier's awards span a lengthy career so far, with his latest being the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2008 Game Developers Choice Awards.

Meier took the opportunity to thank the critics for their recognition over the years and to plug Civ Revolution in his statement. Speaking of which, buried at the bottom of the press release was the news that Civ Revolution has been delayed until July 8 from its expected June 3 release. Perhaps the delay will allow Meier some time to figure out where he'll store all the Revolution awards?

JoystiqCiv Revolution delayed until July, Sid Meier enters Guinness records originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 May 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-GamesbreakingnewsCiv-RevCivilizationCivilization-RevolutionDSFiraxis-GamesMicrosoftNintendoPS3Sid-Meiers-Civilization-RevolutionStrategyXbox-360Thu, 29 May 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Meet Sid Meier at NY Comic Con this Saturday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/17/meet-sid-meier-at-ny-comic-con-this-saturday/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/17/meet-sid-meier-at-ny-comic-con-this-saturday/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/17/meet-sid-meier-at-ny-comic-con-this-saturday/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Sid Meier is attending New York Comic Con '08 this weekend promoting his upcoming Civilization Revolution game. He'll be at the 2K Games Booth (#1157) on Saturday, April 19, from 1-3PM. He'll be making chit-chat with fans and "providing autographs." There's +2 internets in it for the guy who gets Meier to sign his man-boob.

Attendees will also get a chance to try out demos of the console-only Civilization Revolution, which should be very close to done now. Revolution is expected to release on Xbox 360, PS3 and DS on June 3. The Wii version is still hidden by the fog-of-war.

JoystiqMeet Sid Meier at NY Comic Con this Saturday originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 Apr 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-GamesCiv-RevCivilizationcivilization-revolutioncivilizationrevolutioncomic-conDSFiraxis-GamesMicrosoftnew-york-comic-conNintendoPS3sid-meierSid-Meiers-Civilization-RevolutionStrategyXbox-360Thu, 17 Apr 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: GameStop dates Prototype, Splinter Cell V, Sonic Unleashed, Rogue Warrior and more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/28/rumor-gamestop-dates-protoype-splinter-cell-v-sonic-unleashed/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/28/rumor-gamestop-dates-protoype-splinter-cell-v-sonic-unleashed/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/28/rumor-gamestop-dates-protoype-splinter-cell-v-sonic-unleashed/#commentsFiled under:


One of our loyal X3F Army tipsters has outed himself as an employee of GameStop, but to make up for it he sent us a camera phone image of a few release dates. While you should take these dates with a grain of salt some of them are accurate, specifically Ninja Gaiden 2, Soul Calibur IV and Civilization Revolution.

Fueling the fire of the Sega's Sonic Unleashed leak is a release date of November 4 for the Xbox 360, PS3, Wii and PS2. EA's NFL Head Coach 09 is slated for a September 3 release and based on the release of the original in relation to Madden, the time frame seems accurate. A few titles we haven't heard much from are Bethesda Softworks' Rogue Warrior (November 10) and Edios Interactive's Shellshock 2: Blood Trails (September 1), which is being developed by the team at Rebellion.

Other dates include Sierra's Prototype from Radical and the Xbox 360 exclusive Splinter Cell: Conviction from Ubisoft which are dated for October 21 and October 2 respectfully.

Remember, pre-order focused retailers tend to guess-timate releases on a regular basis to structure their sales goals for the final two quarters of the year. However, some of the names on this list make us really glad we have a rumor category.

[Thanks, Travisto]

JoystiqRumor: GameStop dates Prototype, Splinter Cell V, Sonic Unleashed, Rogue Warrior and more originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 28 Mar 2008 00:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bethesda-softworkscivilization-revolutioncivilizationrevolutionEAediosnfl-head-coach-09ninja-gaiden-2prototyperadicalrogue-warriorroguewarriorsegashellshock-2sierrasonic-unleashedsoul-calibur-ivsplinter-cell-convic...splintercellconvictionubisoftFri, 28 Mar 2008 00:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization Revolution establishes community site]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/civilization-revolution-establishes-community-site/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/civilization-revolution-establishes-community-site/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/civilization-revolution-establishes-community-site/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution now has a nice little official site in a corner of the internet to explore, expand, exploit and exterminate. The site for the "it's totally not a port" console version of Civilization provides general information about the game, along with a developer podcast explaining what makes Revolution different from the PC version.

The need to explain by the developers and 2K Games that Revolution is not a "dumbed down" version of Civilization is so pervasive that there's also a Q&A section on the site that tries to explain as much. Revolution will be available on Xbox 360, PS3 and DS on June 3 ... the Wii version is currently on hold.

JoystiqCivilization Revolution establishes community site originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Mar 2008 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-GamesCiv-RevCivilizationCivilization-RevolutionDSFiraxis-GamesMicrosoftNintendoPS3Sid-Meiers-Civilization-RevolutionStrategyXbox-360Thu, 20 Mar 2008 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization Revolution website launched, new info]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/civilization-revolution-website-launched-new-info/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/civilization-revolution-website-launched-new-info/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/civilization-revolution-website-launched-new-info/#commentsFiled under:

The official website for the upcoming console game Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution is now up and running. Civ enthusiasts might want to check it out; the site has a lot of new information on all sixteen civilizations, specifically on their rulers and the unique bonuses each civilization will receive. One interesting news bit is that each civilization not only gets one bonus throughout gameplay, but will get a different bonus as the game progresses into a new age. This brings better balance to more ancient civs in the latter stages of the game and vice versa.

Another revealed detail about the game is the confirmation of downloadable content such as multi-player maps and scenarios for the PlayStation Network. Also there are unlockable maps, scenarios, and mods to be found offline as well.

If you're a big fan of the Civilization series, but too much of a traditionalist to accept having the next game on a console, then you're missing out. Revolution looks likes it's going to be a worthy addition to the series; it's visually on par with Civilization IV and from what we're hearing thus far, it sounds like it's improving on the tried-and-tested formula. If you're interested in seeing more on the game, check out the official website.

JoystiqCivilization Revolution website launched, new info originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Mar 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>civilizationcivilization-revolutioncivilizationrevolutionfiraxisfiraxisgamessid-meiersid-meiers-civilization-revolutionThu, 20 Mar 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization: Revolution migrating to stores in June]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/civilization-revolution-migrating-to-stores-in-june/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/civilization-revolution-migrating-to-stores-in-june/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/civilization-revolution-migrating-to-stores-in-june/#commentsFiled under:

Good and bad news reached our inboxes today regarding Civilization: Revolution. The good: the game is still on target for a spring release. The bad: for those of us who are pining for the game, it's kind of the wrong end of spring.

Whereas once we prayed to the DS gods for an April release, it seems they have not found us deserving of such a blessing. June 3rd is the new release date for Firaxis' strategy in the U.S., while Europe will be receiving it on June 6th. Here's hoping Sid Meier is correct about the (very different) DS version being worth the wait.

See also: 2008's Biggest Blips -- Civilization Revolution


[Via press release]

JoystiqCivilization: Revolution migrating to stores in June originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Feb 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamescivilization-revolutionfiraxissid-meierstrategyWed, 20 Feb 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution gets release date and screenshots]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/sid-meiers-civilization-revolution-gets-release-date-and-screen/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/sid-meiers-civilization-revolution-gets-release-date-and-screen/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/sid-meiers-civilization-revolution-gets-release-date-and-screen/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click for high-resolution image.

Sid Meier's Civilization series is one of the most renown turn-based nation-building sims on the PC, but the next title in the franchise won't be going to the platform of its roots. Instead, the latest game, Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution, will be hitting up the PlayStation 3 and other systems. If you want to play the next Civ game it's time to get a PS3; you'll have to get one soon because Civilization Revolution is expected to make its way to retailers by June 3, 2008.

It's not the first time for a Civilization game to make the crossover to the console arena, but Civilization Revolution is the first to be made solely for it. Firaxis built the game from scratch, and have given the control schemes a streamlined interface in order to make Civilization Revolution more console-friendly.

For those unfamiliar with the Civilization series, the goal of each game is to choose a civilization, build it up, and eventually conquer the world either through brutal warfare or cultural influence. To see how it all actually goes down, check out the new screenshots down below.


JoystiqSid Meier's Civilization Revolution gets release date and screenshots originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Feb 2008 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2kgamescivilizationcivilization-revolutionfiraxissid-meiersid-meiers-civilizationWed, 20 Feb 2008 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Become a part of the revolution by checking out these new Civilization Revolution screens]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/14/become-a-part-of-the-revolution-by-checking-out-these-new-civilization-revolution-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/14/become-a-part-of-the-revolution-by-checking-out-these-new-civilization-revolution-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/14/become-a-part-of-the-revolution-by-checking-out-these-new-civilization-revolution-screens/#commentsFiled under:


If you're excited about Civilization Revolution, there's a good chance you're on the DS Fanboy staff. Aside from a couple of comments vaguely praising the endeavor, we're under the impression that we're just about the only ones who want this game in our hands. It's fine, we're used to being the outcast.

But, should you fine yourself in a curious mood, check out some of the new screens we've posted in our gallery below. We think the title is looking better by each day.

See also: 2008's Biggest Blips -- Civilization Revolution

JoystiqBecome a part of the revolution by checking out these new Civilization Revolution screens originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Feb 2008 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>civilization-revolutionfiraxisstrategyThu, 14 Feb 2008 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[IGN seeks out new Civilization]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/12/ign-seeks-out-new-civilization/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/12/ign-seeks-out-new-civilization/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/12/ign-seeks-out-new-civilization/#commentsFiled under:

It's no surprise that Civilization is great -- it's been being great for decades. But what is nice to hear is that our very own DS version of Civilization Revolution is turning out well. IGN's Steve Butts calls it "essentially just a portable version of the game you're getting on the home systems," in that the game design is unchanged aside from obvious graphical scaling-back and the addition of touchscreen controls. Sid Meier assured us of much the same thing, but we prefer to get confirmation from somebody whose name isn't on the box.

As for details -- well, if there's pretty much anything you want to know about Civilization Revolution, this exhaustive preview has it. For example, the discussion on technology. While you can't set your research on autopilot in order to go directly to a certain technology, you can arrive at many of them via multiple paths. If a technological breakthrough has multiple prerequisites, achieving any of them will qualify you for the new tech. And you get a bonus for being the first to discover a certain technology.

If you're already thinking about historical discoveries that would totally rule in-game, and the previous discoveries that led to them, you should consider checking out the full preview.

See also: 2008's Biggest Blips: Civilization Revolution

JoystiqIGN seeks out new Civilization originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Feb 2008 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamescivilizationcivilization-revolutionfiraxisstrategyTue, 12 Feb 2008 09:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Sid Meier says DS Civ worth your while]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/05/sid-meier-says-ds-civ-worth-your-while/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/05/sid-meier-says-ds-civ-worth-your-while/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/05/sid-meier-says-ds-civ-worth-your-while/#commentsFiled under: ,

As much as we may love the Civilization franchise, is it getting the proper treatment on the DS?It's difficult to tell. When a game is being released for the PS3, 360, and also the DS, naturally, most outlets focus on the consoles. After all, those versions are usually packed with extras and they come complete with glittering screenshots. Civ daddy Sid Meier seems to know what's up, however; despite the lion's share of a recent interview focusing on his older titles and console versions of the upcoming Civilization Revolution, Meier references the incredible Advance Wars franchise and assures everyone that the gameplay on the DS version is going to be exactly the same as it will be with the next-gen versions of the title. Only the interface and look will be different, but the core itself will be the same.

As for the look, we've got fresh, clean versions of those early screens tucked away in our gallery below, and while we're hoping for a little polish prior to release (if Meier can reference Advance Wars, so can we), we're holding out hope that he's right, and that this game will be just as strong as the "bigger" versions.

See also: 2008's Biggest Blips -- Civilization Revolution
[Via GoNintendo]

JoystiqSid Meier says DS Civ worth your while originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Feb 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamescivilization-revolutionfiraxissid-meierstrategyTue, 05 Feb 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Firaxis cites graphics, controls behind shelving of CivRev for Wii]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/05/firaxis-cites-graphics-controls-behind-shelving-of-civrev-for-w/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/05/firaxis-cites-graphics-controls-behind-shelving-of-civrev-for-w/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/05/firaxis-cites-graphics-controls-behind-shelving-of-civrev-for-w/#commentsFiled under: ,

2K Games' decision last week to pull the plug on the the Wii version of Civilization Revolution no doubt left armchair rulers with a taste for waggle at a loss for words. Admittedly we had questions ourselves, especially considering the Wii's popularity, which like a racehorse on speed has shown little signs of slowing down. Why axe a game for the Wii, especially one boasting such a widely recognized name? Patrick Klepek of MTV's Multiplayer blog had questions himself, and went to the source by asking Firaxis' coder Scott Lewis why the Wii version was kicked to the curb.

The reasoning behind why Civilization Revolution for the Wii was put on hold is likely symptomatic of the machine's surprise success, as Lewis notes that the Wii SKU was added as an afterthought once the world became wise to the console's runaway popularity. The project, as it turns out, was originally just PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 bound, and without a PS2 or PSP version from which to draw art assets "a great deal of work" would have been required to create entirely new graphics for the Wii version alone. Other issues, such as having to shoehorn the game's controls onto the Wii remote only compounded difficulties. Added Lewis: "If we had started the project with all four platforms in mind, it is far more likely that we would not have put the Wii version of CivRev on hold."

This highlights an unfortunate reality when it comes to the Wii, as studios' are quick to cash in on the console's success, provided the amount of work to do so is minimal, something that doesn't exactly paint a rosy picture for Wii game development once developers begin to turn their back on the previous generation. However, Lewis noted that if Civilization Revolution performs well at retail for the existing SKUs, namely the PS3, Xbox 360, and DS, a version released for the Wii "will be more likely."

JoystiqFiraxis cites graphics, controls behind shelving of CivRev for Wii originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Feb 2008 15:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-GamesCiv-RevCivilizationCivilization-RevolutionFiraxis-GamesNintendoSid-Meiers-Civilization-RevolutionStrategyWiiTue, 05 Feb 2008 15:25:00 EST<![CDATA[A little insight on the canning of Civilization Revolution]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/05/a-little-insight-on-the-canning-of-civilization-revolution/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/05/a-little-insight-on-the-canning-of-civilization-revolution/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/05/a-little-insight-on-the-canning-of-civilization-revolution/#commentsFiled under:


If you've been concerned that developers are using PS2 and PSP ports as a cheap, fast, and easy way to get games on the Wii, you just may be correct. Patrick Klepek, the new face at MTV's Multiplayer blog, took some time looking into the shelving of the Wii version of Civilization Revolution and some of the issues that led to the decision.

Klepek spoke with Scott Lewis, a programmer at Firaxis, and learned that the Wii version presented a challenge due to the need to create entirely new assets. What isn't addressed, however, is that the DS version likely required as much effort or care as the Wii version ... but as was revealed before, the Wii version was added late, and was releasing late, so it seems unsurprising that, when cuts had to be made, it was the one to go.

For now, it seems that multi-platform titles might offer a cheap and easy Wii solution, if there's already a PS2 or PSP version, but are cross-platform games really the answer for Wii owners? Are we that interested in them? Sometimes, Wii owners have no other real options, as they don't own another system, but we can't help but wonder how many people that really affects. While this move by Firaxis to nix the Wii version of Civilization Revolution (for now, at least) is disappointing, even this blogger -- a diehard Civ fan from way back in the way back -- finds herself more interested in new and innovative titles. More No More Heroes and less Need for Ports Speed. More Opoona, more Zack & Wiki ... and bring the development of these games up to the standard that Wii gamers deserve. Slapdash, hurried titles and last-gen ports are a huge reason third party developers are struggling in places on the Wii, and even the best, most deserving Wii titles suffer from a lack of mainstream advertising and promotion. Maybe it's time developers stopped relying on franchise names and started putting a little more effort in. Of course, well-done ports can work -- look at Resident Evil 4 -- but they're not the majority by far.

"I think the Wii would be perfect for a game like Civ, but we'd have to throw out all of our interface work (and some of our game design decisions) to make it feel like it truly fits on the platform," Lewis said. But will they do all of that? Even when there is an established name to trade on, we can only hope companies take the time to build something for the Wii rather than just throwing things together. Take your time, Firaxis, and build a Civilization for Wii owners. We'll be here.

JoystiqA little insight on the canning of Civilization Revolution originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Feb 2008 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamescivilization-revolutionfiraxisTue, 05 Feb 2008 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[2008's Biggest Blips: Civilization Revolution]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/04/2008s-biggest-blips-civilization-revolution/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/04/2008s-biggest-blips-civilization-revolution/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/04/2008s-biggest-blips-civilization-revolution/#commentsFiled under:

Developer: Firaxis
Publisher: 2K Games
Release: April 1

There are a lot of things that could be said about Civilization: Revolution on the DS. Sid Meier's strategy powerhouse is a perfect fit for the stylus-based control scheme, and if the screens seem a little small for you, well, just remember: there's two of them. And a little scrunching makes up for having to navigate around with a d-pad or analog stick. If you've ever played a Civilization game on a console (and we're Civ junkies here, so we have), then you know that can be less than fun, but real Civ fans suffer the pain anyway, just to maximize their domination experience.

But what no one's mentioned about Civilization: Revolution is the number one reason it's fit for release on the DS, and frankly, we're shocked. Look, people. Civ, like Risk, is all about world domination. Yeah, there are other paths to victory, but in the end, it's all about punking down those other dudes. And that is exactly what the DS is all about. It's the little handheld that could. It's won its own version of the space race, and while it hasn't exactly crushed and wiped out all of the competition, its constant presence at the top of sales charts all over the world says all that needs to be said.

In fact, had the DS been around when Civilization was first created, we expect it might have been named DS: The Game. Instead of tanks and cavalry, we'd have had DS Phat models and little guys waving sabers from the back of a thumb stylus. Japan's special unit would have looked a great deal like Dr. Kawashima, and their leader would have been Satoru Iwata. For the U.S., we'd dump Lincoln or Roosevelt and instead bring in the Regginator, who in times of crisis would remind us that it's just not his problem. In battle-heavy games, however, he would certainly kick ass and take names.

Need entertainment for your citizens? Build download stations and Wi-Fi networks for your cities. Competing civilizations could be not only other gaming systems, but even other hobbies and activities. After all, the DS is conquering various age groups, it's spreading in schools, and it's taking over many everyday aspects of life. You could be the nation of DS versus School, Sony, and Being-A-Functioning-Human on a small map. It could be awesome. Also, just as realistic -- or more so -- than some of the scenarios that mimic historical events!

Okay, so all of that is really very silly, but we're very serious about the march of the DS juggernaut mimicking a good game of Civilization. It started out a little slow, rather like being out in the tundra and cursed with a huge expanse of desert nearby, and an aggressive civilization just next door, hovering around your dudes and giving 'em the evil eye. But when you're in the zone, it just doesn't matter -- you can persevere and move beyond awkward starts and spread across continents ... just as the DS has done.

Some people saw the early screens and turned their noses up at the title, citing it as a little too cluttered or not impressive graphically, but hardcore Civ fans should know better. Like the DS itself, it may seem a little strange at first, but we have faith that Firaxis will pull it out in the home stretch. Civilization Revolution could well be a portable strategy title to rival any other strategy game -- of any sort -- on the DS, and lately, that's been a huge and varied field. But we have faith, and we're keeping an eye on this one.

Harvest Moon
 Back The killer in you

Joystiq2008's Biggest Blips: Civilization Revolution originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Feb 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>08blips2k-gamescivilization-revolutionfiraxisstrategyMon, 04 Feb 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization Revolution on hold for Wii]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/29/civilization-revolution-on-hold-for-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/29/civilization-revolution-on-hold-for-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/29/civilization-revolution-on-hold-for-wii/#commentsFiled under: ,

Civilization's multi-platform console reboot known as Civilization Revolution has had its Wii version put on hold. GI.biz diplomatically states 2K Games is focusing on the "next-generation" versions for the Xbox 360 and PS3, with the DS version apparently still on track as well. All three versions are expected sometime this spring.

The last time it popped up on radar, Civilization Wii-volution was expected later than the other console versions, only due to arrive sometime in Fall '08.

JoystiqCivilization Revolution on hold for Wii originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 Jan 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-GamesBreakingNewsCiv-RevCivilizationCivilization-RevolutionFiraxis-GamesNintendoSid-Meiers-Civilization-RevolutionStrategyWiiTue, 29 Jan 2008 10:00:00 EST