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[Everything Tomb Raider 50 percent off on Steam this weekend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/02/everything-tomb-raider-50-percent-off-on-steam-this-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/02/everything-tomb-raider-50-percent-off-on-steam-this-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/02/everything-tomb-raider-50-percent-off-on-steam-this-weekend/#comments Steam is offering a 50 percent discount on assorted Tomb Raider games this weekend. The sale drops the price of the latest Tomb Raider game to $25, with the Survival Edition knocked down to $28.

The Tomb Raider Collection, which features 10 games from the series (including this year's entry), is also part of this weekend's deal. That sizable bundle of games can be bought for $35. Steam's weekend sale ends at 10am Pacific time on Monday, May 6. PS3 owners can still pick up Lara Croft's recent adventure on PSN for $30 this weekend.

JoystiqEverything Tomb Raider 50 percent off on Steam this weekend originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 May 2013 23:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crystal-DynamicspcsaleSquare-Enixsteamsteam-weekend-dealTomb-Raidertomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013tomb-raider-collectionThu, 02 May 2013 23:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider $30 on PSN this weekend, $20 on GMG]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/tomb-raider-30-on-psn-this-weekend-20-on-gmg/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/tomb-raider-30-on-psn-this-weekend-20-on-gmg/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/tomb-raider-30-on-psn-this-weekend-20-on-gmg/#comments There are some killer deals on Tomb Raider this weekend. On the console front, the downloadable PSN version has been chopped to $30. The deal runs until this Monday at noon PT.

On PC, you can snag the Steam version of Lara's latest adventure for $25 from Green Man Gaming. What's more, applying the code "GMG20-GGN5D-FC3NA" will knock another five bucks off the price, dropping it down to $20.

That's like a penny for every arrow-related fatality in Tomb Raider.

JoystiqTomb Raider $30 on PSN this weekend, $20 on GMG originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Apr 2013 21:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicspcplaystationps3square-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013Fri, 26 Apr 2013 21:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider 1939 multiplayer maps out now, other DLC dated]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/tomb-raider-1939-multiplayer-maps-out-now-other-dlc-dated/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/tomb-raider-1939-multiplayer-maps-out-now-other-dlc-dated/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/tomb-raider-1939-multiplayer-maps-out-now-other-dlc-dated/#comments
Tomb Raider is bolstered by more multiplayer DLC today: the 1939 multiplayer map pack, a pair of maps including Dogfight - a concrete bunker forgotten since World War 2 - and the open spaces of hunting ground Forest Meadow. The map pack costs 320 MS Points ($4) and is available for download on Xbox 360, PS3 and PC right now.

Last month's Cave and Cliffs map pack was a timed Xbox 360 exclusive. Today, Square Enix revealed that it's coming to PS3 and PC mid-April, while the Shipwrecked multiplayer map pack will debut on all platforms in early May. On top of that, some of the exclusive launch DLC for Tomb Raider is available for download across all platforms now, including those Hitman: Absolution guns and other retailer-specific content.

Continue reading Tomb Raider 1939 multiplayer maps out now, other DLC dated

JoystiqTomb Raider 1939 multiplayer maps out now, other DLC dated originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crystal-Dynamicsdlcmicrosoftpcplaystationps3square-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxTue, 02 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Crystal Dynamics: Tomb Raider had best week one sales in franchise history]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/crystal-dynamics-tomb-raider-had-best-week-one-sales-in-franchi/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/crystal-dynamics-tomb-raider-had-best-week-one-sales-in-franchi/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/crystal-dynamics-tomb-raider-had-best-week-one-sales-in-franchi/#comments Tomb Raider nets best week one sales in franchise history, biggest launch of 2013Tomb Raider has achieved the highest week one sales in the franchise's history, according to Crystal Dynamics studio head Darrell Gallagher. Speaking at a GDC panel alongside creative director Noah Hughes, Gallagher also revealed that Tomb Raider had the most successful launch of any game this year.

"It's been the biggest week one sales in franchise history, and we're only a few weeks into that launch right now, and it's been the biggest opening so far in 2013," said Gallagher. "So, we're happy with the outcome. It's certainly in a place where we feel like we're on the road to achieving everything we wanted to."

The claim seems to be at odds with the feelings of Tomb Raider's publisher, Square Enix, which recently cited "weak sales" of its major titles, including Tomb Raider, as a reason for the company undergoing restructure. When asked about the apparent disconnect between Square Enix and Crystal Dynamics regarding Tomb Raider's performance, Hughes told us, "Certainly we're proud of what we achieved, and I think for the most part, the whole organization is happy with what we did." And for Gallagher, "Actuals and expectations, I guess, are two slightly different things. What I'm telling you is the actuals, and they're communicating expectations."

That raises the question of just what Square Enix was expecting. To put things in perspective, Tomb Raider had higher initial sales than the 1996 original, a game that went on to sell over 6 million units in its lifetime. And yet, despite receiving critical acclaim and breaking franchise records, it would appear that Tomb Raider just isn't number one enough.

JoystiqCrystal Dynamics: Tomb Raider had best week one sales in franchise history originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Mar 2013 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3square-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxFri, 29 Mar 2013 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider £20 this weekend on PSN EU]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/tomb-raider-20-this-weekend-on-psn-eu/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/tomb-raider-20-this-weekend-on-psn-eu/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/tomb-raider-20-this-weekend-on-psn-eu/#comments If all of the short-burst Easter Egg deals are as good as this one, then PlayStation Europe's PSN spring sale is one to watch. According to the PlayStation Blog, Tomb Raider is just £19.99/€29.99 on PSN in the continent until the end of March 31, making it comfortably one of the cheapest, if not the cheapest PS3 version in the UK at the moment.

Dozens of other games are discounted on Europe's PSN until April 9, including Persona 1-3, Child of Eden, and Driver: San Francisco.

JoystiqTomb Raider £20 this weekend on PSN EU originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Mar 2013 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicsplaystationps3PSNsquare-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013Fri, 29 Mar 2013 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon lines up another gaming Gold Box today; Tomb Raider $42]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/amazon-lines-up-another-gaming-gold-box-today-tomb-raider-42/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/amazon-lines-up-another-gaming-gold-box-today-tomb-raider-42/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/amazon-lines-up-another-gaming-gold-box-today-tomb-raider-42/#comments Amazon would like to relieve your wallets of any heaviness with another one of its all-day video game Gold Box events. A number of lightning deals will run throughout the day, and you can check out the line-up here. In terms of what's confirmed or obvious thanks to Amazon's clues, Black Ops 2 is going for $35 on Xbox 360 and PS3 at 11AM PT/2PM ET, while Need for Speed: Most Wanted and Dance Central 3 are likely contenders for later time-sensitive discounts.

The all-day deal might be the one to grab your fancy, though. Crystal Dynamics' high-octane Tomb Raider reboot is down to $41.99 on Xbox 360 and PS3, and $34.99 on PC. We reckon that's decent, but if you'd prefer a chunkier version then there's still time (as of writing) to get in on the game's Collector's Edition lightning deal, which ends at 9AM ET. The CE includes a 8-inch tall Play Arts Kai figurine of Lara Croft, steel tin packaging, a 15 by 19 inch double-sided island map and poster, a lithographic print, CD soundtrack, three iron-on badges, and the Weapons Pack DLC, all for $76 instead of $100 in Amazon's deal.

JoystiqAmazon lines up another gaming Gold Box today; Tomb Raider $42 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Mar 2013 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonamazon-gold-boxcrystal-dynamicsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3square-enixtomb-raider-2013xboxTue, 26 Mar 2013 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider single-player DLC isn't in Crystal Dynamics' current plans]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/tomb-raider-single-player-dlc-isnt-in-crystal-dynamics-current/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/tomb-raider-single-player-dlc-isnt-in-crystal-dynamics-current/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/tomb-raider-single-player-dlc-isnt-in-crystal-dynamics-current/#comments Tomb Raider's DLC will be multiplayer-orientated only, based on developer Crystal Dynamics' current plans. Speaking in a Reddit AMA, director Noah Hughes and global brand director Karl Stewart said there are no planned single-player DLC expansions.

"Currently there are no plans regarding single-player DLC," said Hughes when first asked about upcoming DLC. "Now that Lara is more experienced, we are excited to take her on new adventures that challenge her new strength and confidence. It is important that even as Lara grows as a character, so do the challenges she must face."

"There are currently no plans in place for any single-player expansions." Stewart later followed up. "All of our DLC is based around the multiplayer experience for now."

Tomb Raider received its first expansion this week in the form of the 'Caves and Cliffs' pack, which added three new arenas to the game's multiplayer. That arrived on Xbox 360 yesterday for 400 MSP, and remains as yet undated for PS3 and PC.

JoystiqTomb Raider single-player DLC isn't in Crystal Dynamics' current plans originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Mar 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3square-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxWed, 20 Mar 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Tomb Raider gets another patch, Nvidia updates beta drivers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/18/psa-tomb-raider-gets-another-patch-nvidia-updates-beta-drivers/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/18/psa-tomb-raider-gets-another-patch-nvidia-updates-beta-drivers/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/18/psa-tomb-raider-gets-another-patch-nvidia-updates-beta-drivers/#comments PSA Tomb Raider gets another patch, Nvidia updates beta driversTomb Raider on PC got another patch this weekend, launched in conjunction with new beta drivers from Nvidia for GeForce GPUs. Download the latest GeForce 314.21 drivers direct from Nvidia.

Since its launch, GeForce Tomb Raider players have seen "major performance and stability issues" trying to play the game at max settings. Complaints include problems with TressFX and tessellation tripping the game up, at least for those with 600-series cards.

There are more Tomb Raider patches incoming from Crystal Dynamics, based on ongoing player feedback.

JoystiqPSA: Tomb Raider gets another patch, Nvidia updates beta drivers originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Mar 2013 21:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crystal-DynamicsGeForcenvidiapatchpcpsatomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013tressfxupdateMon, 18 Mar 2013 21:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider sees off three new releases to retain UK charts top spot]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/18/tomb-raider-sees-off-three-new-releases-to-retain-uk-charts-top/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/18/tomb-raider-sees-off-three-new-releases-to-retain-uk-charts-top/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/18/tomb-raider-sees-off-three-new-releases-to-retain-uk-charts-top/#comments Tomb Raider is the UK's No. 1 for a second week, holding strong against a three-pronged challenge of new releases including God of War: Ascension. After storming to the country's biggest launch of the year last week, a rebooted Croft hangs tough to ensure Tomb Raider becomes the second 2013 game to retain its crown, despite a 72 percent sales drop.

That means the PS3-exclusive God of War: Ascension only manages the runner-up spot in its debut week, swinging ahead of fellow new releases StarCraft 2: Heart of the Swarm and Sniper: Ghost Warrior 2 in third and fourth place. SimCity deconstructs into fifth in its second week, while Crysis 3 makes it four weeks in the top ten, down now in eighth. Sharp drops for Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance and Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 3 see the Japanese-developed duo prop up the top 20 in 19th and 20th.

Continue reading Tomb Raider sees off three new releases to retain UK charts top spot

JoystiqTomb Raider sees off three new releases to retain UK charts top spot originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Mar 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dschart-trackchart-track-weeklycrystal-dynamicsmicrosoftnintendopcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3square-enixtomb-raider-2013ukvitawii-uxboxMon, 18 Mar 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider PC patch addresses hairy Nvidia issues]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/tomb-raider-pc-patch-addresses-hairy-nvidia-issues/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/tomb-raider-pc-patch-addresses-hairy-nvidia-issues/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/tomb-raider-pc-patch-addresses-hairy-nvidia-issues/#comments Tomb Raider received a PC patch this weekend, with fixes for the Nvidia-associated stability issues high on the agenda. The patch notes mention corrections for "some stability and startup issues on machines that have both Intel and Nvidia graphics hardware" and "some small improvements to TressFX hair rendering." These chief issues led to Nvidia apologizing for the game's unstable performance at maximum settings on its GeForce cards.

Going by the Steam and Eidos forums, the patch does provide significant improvement for some of the stability issues, although by the sounds of it TressFX is still somewhat flaky.

JoystiqTomb Raider PC patch addresses hairy Nvidia issues originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Mar 2013 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicsgeforcenvidiapatchpcsquare-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013tressfxMon, 11 Mar 2013 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider ascends to the peak of this week's UK charts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/tomb-raider-ascends-to-the-peak-of-this-weeks-uk-charts/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/tomb-raider-ascends-to-the-peak-of-this-weeks-uk-charts/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/tomb-raider-ascends-to-the-peak-of-this-weeks-uk-charts/#comments Lara Croft is the leader of the UK pack for the first time in nearly seven years, and she's there in some style too. Not only does Tomb Raider slot into the top spot in this week's UK charts, but it's easily the country's biggest launch of the year so far. True, the game's first week sales are boosted by arriving on a Tuesday rather than the typical Friday, but the same can be said for Aliens: Colonial Marines, the UK's previous biggest first-week seller in 2013. Tomb Raider's opening week beats that of Colonial Marines' by over double, which is particularly telling. After all, according to Crystal Dynamics, Lara's reboot notched up a million sales in under two days.

SimCity is the week's other big name release. Despite releasing on a Friday and, more pertinently, all its troubles across the ocean, the city builder installs itself in second place. On that Sim-note, the newly released University Life expansion for Sims 3 provides a timely reminder of the franchise's selling power by scoring fourth place, beaten by fellow new release Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 3, which arrives in at a very respectable third place.

That means after two weeks at the top, it's down to sixth for Crysis 3, while Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance clings onto the top ten in ninth place. Tumbling their ways out are Colonial Marines and Dead Space 3, down in 15th and 19th respectively.

Continue reading Tomb Raider ascends to the peak of this week's UK charts

JoystiqTomb Raider ascends to the peak of this week's UK charts originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Mar 2013 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dschart-trackchart-track-weeklycrystal-dynamicsEAea-maxismicrosoftnintendopcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3simcity-2013square-enixtomb-raider-2013ukvitawii-uxboxMon, 11 Mar 2013 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Crystal Dynamics: 1 million playing Tomb Raider two days after launch]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/08/crystal-dynamics-1-million-playing-tomb-raider-two-days-after/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/08/crystal-dynamics-1-million-playing-tomb-raider-two-days-after/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/08/crystal-dynamics-1-million-playing-tomb-raider-two-days-after/#comments One million raiders are already exploring rebooted tombs, developer Crystal Dynamics revealed last night. Global brand director Karl Stewart tweeted that a million people were playing Tomb Raider less than 48 hours after the game's launch on March 5.

We're not taking that in the literal sense, though; a million concurrent players would be very impressive, but the game selling one million units in two days is a tad more likely, albeit still impressive.

It's also surely sweet music to the ears of Crystal Dynamics and publisher Square Enix following the performance of the series' last major entry, Tomb Raider: Underworld. That game took over a month to sell a disappointing (apparently) 1.5 million units, with layoffs at Crystal Dynamics occurring soon after. At this rate, the Tomb Raider reboot will hit that figure by the end of the week.

JoystiqCrystal Dynamics: 1 million playing Tomb Raider two days after launch originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Mar 2013 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3salessquare-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxFri, 08 Mar 2013 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Nvidia, Crystal Dynamics looking into Tomb Raider PC performance issues]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/nvidia-crystal-dynamics-looking-into-tomb-raider-pc-performance/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/nvidia-crystal-dynamics-looking-into-tomb-raider-pc-performance/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/nvidia-crystal-dynamics-looking-into-tomb-raider-pc-performance/#comments Graphics powerhouse Nvidia is working with developer Crystal Dynamics to address the "major performance and stability issues" occurring with GeForce cards playing Tomb Raider on max settings. A number of users on the Nvidia, Steam, and Tomb Raider forums complained about a range of GeForce-related issues, with common complaints including the game repeatedly crashing to desktop on 600-series cards, and AMD's TressFX hair rendering tech taking a chunky toll on performance.

Following no mention of Tomb Raider in its post on the latest GeForce beta drivers, Nvidia's Andrew Burnes took to the comments to explain the situation, revealing the company only received a final version of the game a few days ahead of launch.

"Unfortunately, Nvidia didn't receive final code until this past weekend which substantially decreased stability, image quality and performance over a build we were previously provided," said Burnes. "We are working closely with Crystal Dynamics to address and resolve all game issues as quickly as possible. In the meantime, we would like to apologize to GeForce users that are not able to have a great experience playing Tomb Raider, as they have come to expect with all of their favorite PC games."

JoystiqNvidia, Crystal Dynamics looking into Tomb Raider PC performance issues originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Mar 2013 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicsgeforcenvidiapcsquare-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013Wed, 06 Mar 2013 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview: Tomb Raider]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/metareview-tomb-raider/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/metareview-tomb-raider/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/metareview-tomb-raider/#comments There's nothing quite like the word 'reboot' to stir the catcalls of cynicism. Based on the critical acclaim. including that from our own Richard Mitchell. the latest adventure for one of gaming's oldest series is more than just a reboot; it's a rebirth.
  • Digital Spy (100/100): "With a well written cast of characters, mightily impressive production techniques, sumptuous visuals, tight platforming and surprisingly enjoyable combat, Tomb Raider is most definitely a release to be treasured."
  • GamesRadar (90/100): "Its expert sense of pacing, captivating setting, and dark tone create a truly memorable experience that's further enhanced by an immense level of detail. Lara Croft, the old Lara Croft, is dead. In place of a dolled-up gunslinger is a do-what-it-takes survivor - and we hope she hasn't had her fill of adventuring just yet."
  • Polygon (90/100): "It's easy to point out the many ways that Tomb Raider borrows bits and pieces from other popular games of the last five years, but Crystal Dynamics has blended these disparate strengths into something remarkable. It's cinematic yet open, intense yet laid-back, fresh yet polished."
  • GameSpot (85/100): "The single-player campaign here is the main attraction, and it is excellent. It doesn't try to rewrite the book on third-person action adventure games. But with its excellent controls, engaging heroine, thrilling combat, and fascinating setting, it doesn't need to."
  • Edge (80/100): "Whether she's huddled up against the cold or sending five men to their doom with an explosive arrow, this is still Lara Croft, one of gaming's most distinctive heroes - and now she has a personality that extends far beyond the bounds of her bra straps. If the purpose of a reboot is to redefine a character and set them up for the future, then this is a job well done."

JoystiqMetareview: Tomb Raider originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Mar 2013 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicsmetareviewmicrosoftpcplaystationps3square-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxMon, 04 Mar 2013 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider review: A believer is born]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/tomb-raider-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/tomb-raider-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/tomb-raider-review/#comments Tomb Raider is important to me. The 1996 original blew my 13-year-old mind, and it showed me what video games could be. It gave me a world ripe for exploration and begged me to suss out all its secrets, something the recent Crystal Dynamics games have also done with aplomb. Tomb Raider, to me, is a series about traveling the world, uncovering the plans and schemes of dead civilizations. It's about spending the better part of an hour to get ancient machinery rumbling again, all in service of opening a massive stone door.

There are no such doors in the new Tomb Raider. Grandiose puzzles have been excised in favor of smaller brainteasers. Globe-trotting has been replaced with a single, open world. Lara Croft spends more time mowing (and bowing) down bad guys than she ever has before.

It was hard for me to come to grips with these facts, and I spent many hours questioning Crystal Dynamics' new direction. That was until I realized the truth: It's all just a long con.

Gallery: Tomb Raider (2/25/13)

Continue reading Tomb Raider review: A believer is born

JoystiqTomb Raider review: A believer is born originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Mar 2013 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3square-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxMon, 04 Mar 2013 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider's 'The Final Hours' webseries concludes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/tomb-raiders-the-final-hours-webseries-finally-reaches-its-fi/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/tomb-raiders-the-final-hours-webseries-finally-reaches-its-fi/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/tomb-raiders-the-final-hours-webseries-finally-reaches-its-fi/#comments
This is the second, really final part of the last piece of the "Final Hours" Tomb Raider documentary. You can tell because there's footage of empty offices and retrospective piano music.

JoystiqTomb Raider's 'The Final Hours' webseries concludes originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Mar 2013 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3square-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxFri, 01 Mar 2013 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Conan loves but loses Tomb Raider]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/26/conan-loves-but-loses-tomb-raider/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/26/conan-loves-but-loses-tomb-raider/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/26/conan-loves-but-loses-tomb-raider/#comments
Jimmy Fallon may have gotten the PS4 demo, but Conan 'Clueless Gamer' O'Brien seems happy enough with trying out Tomb Raider. Conan's commentary is unsurprisingly puerile - the video is probably NSFW - and things come to a head when Lara tries to navigate rapids.

JoystiqConan loves but loses Tomb Raider originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Feb 2013 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clueless-gamerconan-o-brienconan-obriencrystal-dynamicsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3square-enixtomb-raidertomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxTue, 26 Feb 2013 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider fires up combat trailer, PC specs published]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/22/tomb-raider-fires-up-combat-trailer-pc-specs-published/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/22/tomb-raider-fires-up-combat-trailer-pc-specs-published/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/22/tomb-raider-fires-up-combat-trailer-pc-specs-published/#comments
The third Tomb Raider Guide to Survival webisode focuses on something that's always been something of a pitfall for Ms Croft: combat. Clearly Crystal Dynamics hopes to address that with this reboot, and thankfully we've not seen any evidence of shark-punching (yet).

Square Enix also sends us the game's newly revealed PC specs, which we've published over the break. PC stalwarts may be pleased to see Tomb Raider bucks the growing trend of dropping XP support.

Continue reading Tomb Raider fires up combat trailer, PC specs published

JoystiqTomb Raider fires up combat trailer, PC specs published originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Feb 2013 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3square-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxFri, 22 Feb 2013 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider - The Final Hours closing episode captures that endgame panic]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/13/tomb-raider-the-final-hours-closing-episode-captures-that-endg/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/13/tomb-raider-the-final-hours-closing-episode-captures-that-endg/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/13/tomb-raider-the-final-hours-closing-episode-captures-that-endg/#comments
Putting that final rubber stamp on a game and sending it off to be shipped and sold is not a mere formality, as this first part of the closing episode of Tomb Raider's "The Final Hours" webseries shows.

JoystiqTomb Raider - The Final Hours closing episode captures that endgame panic originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 Feb 2013 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3square-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxWed, 13 Feb 2013 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Watch 11 minutes of Tomb Raider with developer commentary]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/11/watch-11-minutes-of-tomb-raider-with-developer-commentary/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/11/watch-11-minutes-of-tomb-raider-with-developer-commentary/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/11/watch-11-minutes-of-tomb-raider-with-developer-commentary/#comments
Since there's no pre-launch demo, it's worth checking out this 11-minute walkthrough of Tomb Raider with creative director Noah Hughes. While the footage might get you interested in the game, it's completely put us off ever descending a mountain. Which is fortunate, as ascents aren't our bag either.

JoystiqWatch 11 minutes of Tomb Raider with developer commentary originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Feb 2013 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicsEAmicrosoftpcplaystationps3tomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxMon, 11 Feb 2013 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider: Guide to Survival's second episode gets on board with fast travel]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/tomb-raider-guide-to-survivals-second-episode-gets-on-board-wi/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/tomb-raider-guide-to-survivals-second-episode-gets-on-board-wi/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/tomb-raider-guide-to-survivals-second-episode-gets-on-board-wi/#comments
The second episode of the Tomb Raider webseries Guide to Survival acts a bit like it's just invented the concept of 'Fast Travel.' As with many things in the reboot, it is something fresh for the series, as is backtracking to unlock locations with new gear.

JoystiqTomb Raider: Guide to Survival's second episode gets on board with fast travel originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Feb 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3square-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxWed, 06 Feb 2013 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[No pre-launch Tomb Raider demo for sake of story, says Crystal Dynamics]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/17/no-pre-launch-tomb-raider-demo-for-sake-of-story-says-crystal-d/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/17/no-pre-launch-tomb-raider-demo-for-sake-of-story-says-crystal-d/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/17/no-pre-launch-tomb-raider-demo-for-sake-of-story-says-crystal-d/#comments Tomb Raider prerelease demo isn't in plans, says Crystal DynamicsCrystal Dynamics is not planning to release a Tomb Raider demo before the game launches on March 5.

"For all those @tombraider fans asking. There are no plans to release a demo of the game pre-launch. We don't want to spoil the story," tweeted Global Brand Director Karl Stewart. "We've weaved such an personal story we don't believe spoiling it by having you wait a week or so to play on, delivers on our promise."

While pre-release demos are typical, it's not rare to see them pop up after the game arrives on retail shelves. Nonetheless, the news and the reasons given by Stewart are somewhat surprising given how much exposure the game's opening act has already received. A different part of the game may make for a better demo, but would lack the context Crystal Dynamics has crafted in this story-driven reboot.

JoystiqNo pre-launch Tomb Raider demo for sake of story, says Crystal Dynamics originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 Jan 2013 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicsdemomicrosoftpcplaystationps3square-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxThu, 17 Jan 2013 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Borrowing campaign-crafted viciousness for Tomb Raider's multiplayer mode]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/14/borrowing-campaign-crafted-viciousness-for-tomb-raiders-multipl/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/14/borrowing-campaign-crafted-viciousness-for-tomb-raiders-multipl/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/14/borrowing-campaign-crafted-viciousness-for-tomb-raiders-multipl/#comments Tomb Raider multiplayer and how to do itWe caught wind of rumors that the latest Tomb Raider might include multiplayer late last month, right before the rumors were officially confirmed by Square Enix. During the 2013 Consumer Electronics Show, the shrink wrap officially came off, and Square Enix allowed members of the press to sit down and play the two multiplayer modes they're currently willing to reveal from the upcoming Lara Croft reboot.

Team Deathmatch was the first, but its clash of warring sides offered nothing fresh on the staple multiplayer mode. The other mode, however, offered much more promise. In the mode dubbed Rescue, two teams are tasked with separate goals. Lara Croft's faction, the Scavengers, is sent after a medpack item in the level, and given a goal zone to bring it back to, scoring five times to win. The opposing team, called the Solarii, is given a kill goal (20 in the current build, though that may change), with the trick being that shooting the other side will only down them, making it necessary for the trigger-happy team to run to and finish off their wounded enemy in order to score a point.

While Team Deathmatch is more or less standard multiplayer chaos, the balance of goals in Rescue makes the mode vastly more interesting. And while the screenshots will probably bring plenty of suggestions that Eidos is borrowing a page from the Uncharted playbook, the complexity hints that there's something new here.

Gallery: Tomb Raider (2013) multiplayer

Continue reading Borrowing campaign-crafted viciousness for Tomb Raider's multiplayer mode

JoystiqBorrowing campaign-crafted viciousness for Tomb Raider's multiplayer mode originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Jan 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crystal-DynamicsEidos-Montrealmicrosoftpcplaystationps3tomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxMon, 14 Jan 2013 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider 360 controller is rough, tumble, rumbles]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/10/tomb-raider-360-controller-is-rough-tumble-rumbles/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/10/tomb-raider-360-controller-is-rough-tumble-rumbles/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/10/tomb-raider-360-controller-is-rough-tumble-rumbles/#comments
You know how they make those designer jeans that look like you've owned 'em for 30 years, despite being brand new and insanely expensive? Well, this is like that, but for an Xbox 360.

Launching in March, the official Tomb Raider Limited Edition Wireless Controller will cost $60 and come bundled with a code for exclusive character DLC; a hooded, goggled archer that can be seen in the video above. The controller itself features multiple layers of paint and laser etching, so not only does it look beat to hell but it'll feel that way too.

As per usual with special edition Xbox 360 pads, it's also equipped with one of those nifty transforming D-pads, though whether the D-pad has been artificially aged like a too-expensive guitar replica is unknown.

JoystiqTomb Raider 360 controller is rough, tumble, rumbles originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Jan 2013 12:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>agedcontrolllerCrystal-Dynamicsdesignerdistressedlimited-editionmicrosoftspecial-editionSquare-Enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxThu, 10 Jan 2013 12:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider survives with friends in first multiplayer footage]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/08/tomb-raider-survives-with-friends-in-first-multiplayer-footage/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/08/tomb-raider-survives-with-friends-in-first-multiplayer-footage/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/08/tomb-raider-survives-with-friends-in-first-multiplayer-footage/#comments
The groundwork for Tomb Raider's multiplayer was laid some time ago with Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light. This episode of The Final Hours of Tomb Raider explores that and how multiplayer was an afterthought that eventually snowballed into a realized game mode.

JoystiqTomb Raider survives with friends in first multiplayer footage originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 Jan 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicseidos-montrealmicrosoftpcplaystationps3tomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxTue, 08 Jan 2013 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Tomb Raider to include multiplayer [Update: Confirmed!]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/27/rumor-tomb-raider-to-include-multiplayer/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/27/rumor-tomb-raider-to-include-multiplayer/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/27/rumor-tomb-raider-to-include-multiplayer/#comments Rumor Tomb Raider to include multiplayerLara Croft's upcoming adventure may have a multiplayer component, reports All Games Beta. A product listing on the UK retailer GAME listed multiplayer as a key feature in the new Tomb Raider, specifically stating that players will be able to "play a variety of multiplayer modes as Lara's Shipmates or Yamatai's Scavengers." The description has since been removed from the product page.

Square Enix recently teased a "special secret announcement" in a video released earlier this year, promising that it would "change the way you play Tomb Raider forever." Assuming GAME's info was accurate, a multiplayer mode would certainly be new territory for the Tomb Raider series. We just hope there isn't a "Lara vs. Exotic Animals" mode. The animals wouldn't stand a chance.

Update: Official Xbox Magazine's latest issue confirms the existence of multiplayer, though specifics are still in short supply. We'll keep our ear to the ground for official details as they surface.

JoystiqRumor: Tomb Raider to include multiplayer [Update: Confirmed!] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 27 Dec 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crystal-Dynamicsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3square-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxThu, 27 Dec 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lara goes camping in first episode of Tomb Raider's 'Guide to Survival']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/17/lara-goes-camping-in-first-episode-of-tomb-raiders-guide-to-su/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/17/lara-goes-camping-in-first-episode-of-tomb-raiders-guide-to-su/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/17/lara-goes-camping-in-first-episode-of-tomb-raiders-guide-to-su/#comments
A video series focused on Tomb Raider will dive deeper into the mechanics and story of Crystal Dynamics' reboot. Guide to Survival's first episode focuses on Basecamps, which Lara uses to apply skill points to upgrade her skills and equipment. She also uses fire to survive because tank top.

JoystiqLara goes camping in first episode of Tomb Raider's 'Guide to Survival' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Dec 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>basecampcrystal-dynamicslara-croftmicrosoftpcplaystationps3square-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxMon, 17 Dec 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lara bows under pressure in new Tomb Raider trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/10/lara-bows-under-pressure-in-new-tomb-raider-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/10/lara-bows-under-pressure-in-new-tomb-raider-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/10/lara-bows-under-pressure-in-new-tomb-raider-trailer/#comments
In the latest Tomb Raider trailer, Lara Croft kills two men with a bow and arrows, after which she strangles a third. With the bow. Other things happen too, but ... damn.

JoystiqLara bows under pressure in new Tomb Raider trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Dec 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crystal-Dynamicsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3square-enixvga-2012xboxMon, 10 Dec 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Soul Reaver, Soul Reaver 2 and Legacy of Kain: Defiance resurrected on Steam]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/07/soul-reaver-soul-reaver-2-and-legacy-of-kain-defiance-resurrec/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/07/soul-reaver-soul-reaver-2-and-legacy-of-kain-defiance-resurrec/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/07/soul-reaver-soul-reaver-2-and-legacy-of-kain-defiance-resurrec/#comments Soul Reaver and sequel, Legacy of Kain Defiance now on SteamThanks to the power of the Elder God, the Legacy of Kain series is now on Steam. For $9.99 a pop, you can download Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver, Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver 2 and Legacy of Kain: Defiance.

The Legacy of Kain games focus on vampire-turned-wraith Raziel and vampire demigod Kain. It's the series where Amy Hennig got her first crack as games writer and director. Hennig has since won two awards from the Writers Guild of America for her work on the Uncharted series.

JoystiqSoul Reaver, Soul Reaver 2 and Legacy of Kain: Defiance resurrected on Steam originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 07 Dec 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicseidoslegacy-of-kainLegacy-Of-Kain-Defiancelegacy-of-kain-soul-reaverLegacy-of-kain-Soul-Reaver-2pcsilicon-knightssquare-enixsteamFri, 07 Dec 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Surviving and learning to fight back as Lara Croft in Tomb Raider]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/04/surviving-and-learning-to-fight-back-as-lara-croft-in-tomb-raider/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/04/surviving-and-learning-to-fight-back-as-lara-croft-in-tomb-raider/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/04/surviving-and-learning-to-fight-back-as-lara-croft-in-tomb-raider/#comments A lot can happen in the span of two hours. In Tomb Raider, I witnessed a young Lara Croft change from unsure archaeologist assistant to a survivor, willing to do whatever it takes to save her friends and protect herself.

Tomb Raider is a reboot of the iconic series and heroine therein, and the story of a world-class explorer coming into her own. After being stranded on an island seemingly lost to the world since World War II, the naive youngster grows into the confident and strong Lara Croft we've known all along.

Gallery: Tomb Raider (12/4/12)

Continue reading Surviving and learning to fight back as Lara Croft in Tomb Raider

JoystiqSurviving and learning to fight back as Lara Croft in Tomb Raider originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 Dec 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicslara-croftmicrosoftpcplaystationps3square-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxTue, 04 Dec 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light now stationed on Core Online]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/14/lara-croft-and-the-guardian-of-light-now-stationed-on-core-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/14/lara-croft-and-the-guardian-of-light-now-stationed-on-core-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/14/lara-croft-and-the-guardian-of-light-now-stationed-on-core-online/#comments Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light now stationed on CoreonlineLara Croft and the Guardian of Light has made the jump to Core Online, Square Enix's recently unveiled cloud gaming platform. It's the third game to find its way there, with Hitman: Blood Money and Mini Ninjas made available at launch. Core Online is accessible via Firefox, Internet Explorer, and Chrome, making Guardian of Light available to Mac users.

Lara Croft's 2010 jaunt into isometric puzzling is free-to-play through Core Online, but only if you're okay with having play interrupted by ads. The service's help page indicates ads should generally appear every 20 minutes, as long as you watch a full minute of sponsored messages at each interruption. On our testing we were offered a selection of three ads, each with different running times. 1 minute and 14 seconds of a Mini Ninjas ad gave us 25 minutes playing time.

If you prefer raiding tombs without people intermittently trying to sell you stuff, you can remove ads from the full game for $9.99, or from individual missions for $0.99 each.

JoystiqLara Croft and the Guardian of Light now stationed on Core Online originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Nov 2012 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>coreonlinecrystal-dynamicsfree-to-playlara-croft-and-the-guardian-of-lightmacpcrelease-datesquare-enixWed, 14 Nov 2012 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Select Tomb Raider games 75% off on Steam this weekend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/03/select-tomb-raider-games-75-off-on-steam-this-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/03/select-tomb-raider-games-75-off-on-steam-this-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/03/select-tomb-raider-games-75-off-on-steam-this-weekend/#comments Select Tomb Raider games 75% off on Steam this weekendFrom now until 10 a.m. Pacific time on Monday morning, the PC versions of Tomb Raider: Anniversary, Tomb Raider: Legend and Tomb Raider: Underworld are all 75 percent on Steam, meaning that each game can be had for less than a fiver. That is, provided you're able to circumnavigate an elaborate series of traps, deadly animals and vicious, armed ne'er-do-wells hell-bent on preventing you from acquiring the treasure you seek.*

*Some or all requirements listed may be a complete fabrication. Joystiq, AOL Media Inc. and The Huffington Post Media Group are not responsible for any injuries sustained while attempting to purchase computerized video-machine games off of digital distribution platforms such as Steam. Today's lucky number is "three." If Lily has six apples, and a different girl also named Lily has twelve apples, why are you still reading this?

JoystiqSelect Tomb Raider games 75% off on Steam this weekend originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 03 Nov 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crystal-DynamicseidospcSteamTomb-Raider-AnniversaryTomb-Raider-Legendtomb-raider-underworldSat, 03 Nov 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The 'Final Hours' of Tomb Raider tells the story of telling a story]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/02/the-final-hours-of-tomb-raider-tells-the-story-of-telling-a-st/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/02/the-final-hours-of-tomb-raider-tells-the-story-of-telling-a-st/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/02/the-final-hours-of-tomb-raider-tells-the-story-of-telling-a-st/#comments
How do you reinvent an icon? No, seriously, how do you do that - we've never done it and it sounds hard. For many of the folks at Crystal Dynamics, it's the greatest undertaking of their careers, evidenced in this latest episode of the Final Hours series focusing on Tomb Raider.

Tomb Raider lead writer Rhianna Pritchett weighs in with just how much of herself she's put into Lara Croft and what it's like being the first female lead writer in series history. Crystal Dynamics' Karl Stewart also goes into the game's Comic-Con 2012 presence and the anxiety that comes from showing off Tomb Raider to the general public for the first time.

This latest episode also reveals pre-order bonuses through Amazon: an art book, in-game skin and a digital copy of the Final Hours series for Tomb Raider for Kindle Fire.

JoystiqThe 'Final Hours' of Tomb Raider tells the story of telling a story originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Oct 2012 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicsfinal-hoursmicrosoftpcplaystationps3square-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxTue, 02 Oct 2012 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Rhianna Pratchett announced as lead writer on Tomb Raider]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/12/rhianna-pratchett-announced-as-lead-writer-on-tomb-raider/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/12/rhianna-pratchett-announced-as-lead-writer-on-tomb-raider/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/12/rhianna-pratchett-announced-as-lead-writer-on-tomb-raider/#comments Tomb Raider taps Rhianna Pratchett as lead writerRhianna Pratchett is handling lead writer duties on the Tomb Raider reboot from Crystal Dynamics. Pratchett, the daughter of fantasy novelist Terry Pratchett, is no stranger to video game storytelling, having contributed to the Overlord games, Prince of Persia and Mirror's Edge.

Pratchett has apparently been working on the narrative for Tomb Raider since "its early inception," and has brought "a depth and credibility to Lara" only she can, says Darrell Gallagher, head honcho at Crystal Dynamics. Pratchett, who is at San Diego Comic-Con 2012 this weekend, will participate in two Tomb Raider panels on Saturday. Full schedule and panel descriptions can be found past the break.

[Image credit]

Continue reading Rhianna Pratchett announced as lead writer on Tomb Raider

JoystiqRhianna Pratchett announced as lead writer on Tomb Raider originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Jul 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3rhianna-pratchetttomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxThu, 12 Jul 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light gets Chrome'd out this fall]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/28/lara-croft-and-the-guardian-of-light-gets-chromed-out-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/28/lara-croft-and-the-guardian-of-light-gets-chromed-out-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/28/lara-croft-and-the-guardian-of-light-gets-chromed-out-this-fall/#comments Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light continues its long and storied tradition of being ported to unexpected platforms this fall, when the Crystal Dynamics XBLA adventure makes its way to Google's Chrome browser.

Previously, LCATGOL has made its way to PSN, Steam, iOS, OnLive and the Blackberry Playbook; a list that makes less sense the longer you read it. The game will be powered by Google's open source Native Client framework and will run in-browser, similar to other XBLA-to-Chrome converts like Bastion and From Dust. No word yet on pricing or availability beyond the fall release window.

JoystiqLara Croft and the Guardian of Light gets Chrome'd out this fall originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Jun 2012 20:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserchromeCrystal-Dynamicsgooglegoogle-chromelara-croftlara-croft-and-the-guardian-of-lightmacpcsquare-enixThu, 28 Jun 2012 20:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider's first piece of DLC exclusive on Xbox 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/04/tomb-raiders-first-piece-of-dlc-exclusive-on-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/04/tomb-raiders-first-piece-of-dlc-exclusive-on-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/04/tomb-raiders-first-piece-of-dlc-exclusive-on-xbox-360/#comments Xbox 360 owners will get an exclusive piece of DLC for Tomb Raider when it launches next year - remember, it was recently delayed to March 5, 2013. Crystal Dynamics' Darryl Gallagher revealed the news during Microsoft's E3 press conference, but didn't go into detail on what the DLC is or whether it would be offered gratis.

Gallery: Tomb Raider (6/4/12)

JoystiqTomb Raider's first piece of DLC exclusive on Xbox 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Jun 2012 13:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicsdlce3-2012microsofttomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxMon, 04 Jun 2012 13:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider delayed until Q1 2013]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/tomb-raider-delayed-until-q1-2013/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/tomb-raider-delayed-until-q1-2013/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/tomb-raider-delayed-until-q1-2013/#comments The younger, dirtier and unvarnished version of Lara Croft still needs some polish, according to Crystal Dynamics. The developer is pushing back the release date of the next Tomb Raider, from Fall 2012 into the first quarter of 2013. (Yes, the same quarter that now hosts another one of 2012's former heavy hitters, Bioshock Infinite.)

"Our priority now is to make sure we fully deliver the very highest quality game," Crystal Dynamics Head Darrell Gallagher wrote. In a missive posted on the game's official forums, Gallagher shared the studio's push to make Tomb Raider "the best game of our careers." The delay will boost quality up to "a level that you deserve," he said.

The shift in release date has also given us an unexpected sense of optimism. If enough promising games get pushed into next year, we might actually start rooting for the world's continued existence beyond 2012.

JoystiqTomb Raider delayed until Q1 2013 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 May 2012 02:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013crystal-dynamicsdarrell-gallagherdelaylara-croftmicrosoftplaystationps3q1-2013release-datesquare-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxMon, 14 May 2012 02:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Soul Reaver shifts planes to GOG.com]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/soul-reaver-shifts-planes-to-gog-com/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/soul-reaver-shifts-planes-to-gog-com/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/soul-reaver-shifts-planes-to-gog-com/#comments
Raziel has been to many strange and wonderful places, but he's never been to Good Old Games until now. Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver is now available on the service for $6. Soul Reaver tells the tale of a betrayed vampire-turned-revenant, Raziel, and his vengeance against those who wronged him.

It also sports a top-notch voice cast and, hey, it's fun to play. If you missed it the first time around (or if you feel like reliving it again), it's definitely worth checking out.

JoystiqSoul Reaver shifts planes to GOG.com originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crystal-Dynamicsgoggog.comlegacy-of-kain-soul-reaverpcsquare-enixThu, 26 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War 2 director Cory Barlog joins Crystal Dynamics]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/02/god-of-war-2-director-cory-barlog-joins-crystal-dynamics/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/02/god-of-war-2-director-cory-barlog-joins-crystal-dynamics/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/02/god-of-war-2-director-cory-barlog-joins-crystal-dynamics/#comments Cory Barlog, who served as writer and director for God of War 2, as well as "story creator" for Ghost of Sparta and creative director for Chains of Olympus, has joined Crystal Dynamics to work on its forthcoming Tomb Raider reboot and "a yet to be announced new title."

Its unclear what this transition may mean for Barlog's Mad Max project, which was reportedly in production at Avalanche Studios. "I can't comment on our project, but all I can say is that the projects we've been working on for the last two years and the one we recently started up in NY are sailing along like never before," said Avalanche Studios founder Christofer Sundberg in a statement to Eurogamer.

This either means that Mad Max is continuing without Barlog at Avalanche Studios, or that it was never there to begin with. Either way, we're looking forward to seeing what kind of vengeful, face-painting influence Barlog has on Lara Croft's future, and whether his presence at Crystal Dynamics could finally lead to Gex of War.

Continue reading God of War 2 director Cory Barlog joins Crystal Dynamics

JoystiqGod of War 2 director Cory Barlog joins Crystal Dynamics originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Mar 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Avalanche-Studioscory-barlogCrystal-DynamicsGexLara-Croftmad-maxTomb-Raidertomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012Fri, 02 Mar 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider to be promoted with real world geocaching treasure hunt]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/tomb-raider-to-be-promoted-with-real-world-geocaching-treasure-h/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/tomb-raider-to-be-promoted-with-real-world-geocaching-treasure-h/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/tomb-raider-to-be-promoted-with-real-world-geocaching-treasure-h/#comments Lara Square Enix and Crystal Dynamics have announced a partnership with Geocaching.com to promote Tomb Raider. What's geocaching, you ask? Essentially, it's a modern day form of treasure hunting, in which participants use GPS to uncover "geocaches" hidden across the globe by other enthusiasts.

Later this year, the promotion promises "a series of unique location-based adventures" in the spirit of Lara's own lust for precious artifacts. The promotion will use a combination of Geocaching.com's own app and "a photo-based adventure project" called Geocaching Challenges from Groundspeak.com. Presumably, would-be tomb raiders will be hunting for objects related to Lara and her adventures, though there's no hint as to what these treasures will be -- we can only hope that scions are involved.

Continue reading Tomb Raider to be promoted with real world geocaching treasure hunt

JoystiqTomb Raider to be promoted with real world geocaching treasure hunt originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicsgeocachingmicrosoftpcplaystationps3square-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012xboxWed, 11 Jan 2012 14:30:00 EST