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[Dragon's Dogma: Dark Arisen trailer is full of burning lizards and death]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/13/dragons-dogma-dark-arisen-trailer-is-full-of-burning-lizards-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/13/dragons-dogma-dark-arisen-trailer-is-full-of-burning-lizards-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/13/dragons-dogma-dark-arisen-trailer-is-full-of-burning-lizards-a/#comments
Capcom's new video for Dragon's Dogma: Dark Arisen shows off some new enemies, one of which is literally death. Like, Death death, with a capital "D." Death shows up randomly and (surprise!) tries to kill you and your Pawns, and while killing it is possible, it reportedly takes several encounters.

JoystiqDragon's Dogma: Dark Arisen trailer is full of burning lizards and death originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 13 Apr 2013 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomcreaturesdeathdragons-dogma-dark-arisenenemiesmicrosoftmobsmonstersplaystationps3xboxSat, 13 Apr 2013 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavy Rain composer Normand Corbeil passes away, aged 56]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/28/heavy-rain-composer-normand-corbeil-passes-away-aged-56/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/28/heavy-rain-composer-normand-corbeil-passes-away-aged-56/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/28/heavy-rain-composer-normand-corbeil-passes-away-aged-56/#comments Heavy Rain composer Normand Corbeil passes away, aged 56Normand Corbeil, the celebrated screen and video game composer, has died at age 56. Corbeil, twice nominated for Emmy awards for his work on Hitler: The Rise of Evil and Human Trafficking, composed the award-winning music of Quantic Dream's Heavy Rain. He also co-composed Indigo Prophecy, and was working on the studio's next project, Beyond: Two Souls. After being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in August 2012, Corbeil passed away on January 25.

One of the key components of Heavy Rain, a game Joystiq doled out five stars to, was its powerful, often deeply melancholic music. As our reviewer put it, Corbeil's "superb" accompanying score drew you into the experience because it fit the situation so well.

Our thoughts go out to his family, friends and colleagues. Gaming has lost a great composer, but Corbeil's work lives on, and we hope you take the time today to enjoy it.

JoystiqHeavy Rain composer Normand Corbeil passes away, aged 56 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Jan 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beyond-two-soulscomposerdeathheavy-rainmusicnormand-corbeilquantic-dreamripMon, 28 Jan 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Darksiders 2 statue brings Death and Despair into your living space]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/11/darksiders-2-statue-brings-death-and-despair-into-your-living-sp/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/11/darksiders-2-statue-brings-death-and-despair-into-your-living-sp/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/11/darksiders-2-statue-brings-death-and-despair-into-your-living-sp/#comments Darksiders 2 statues bring Death and Despair into your living spaceState of the Art Toys is preparing to let loose Death and his steed Despair on the collectibles world. A $249.99 statue of both Darksiders 2 characters is available for pre-order right now, with the first shipments expected to go out in mid-February.

High intensity LEDs are built into Despair, lighting up his mane, hooves and tail. Death rides atop Despair with his scythes in hand, ready to reap the souls of all your other collectibles should they get out of line. What? That movie Toy Story was a documentary, you guys - your toys are alive and move when you're not looking.

Gallery: Darksiders 2 (Death and Despair Figurine)

Continue reading Darksiders 2 statue brings Death and Despair into your living space

JoystiqDarksiders 2 statue brings Death and Despair into your living space originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Dec 2012 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>collectiblesdarksiders-2deathdespairmicrosoftnintendopcplaystationps3thqvigil-gameswii-uxboxTue, 11 Dec 2012 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA['GamesMaster' Sir Patrick Moore has died]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/10/gamesmaster-sir-patrick-moore-has-died/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/10/gamesmaster-sir-patrick-moore-has-died/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/10/gamesmaster-sir-patrick-moore-has-died/#comments
Revered British astronomer, writer, and broadcaster Sir Patrick Moore has died, aged 89. As the BBC reports, Moore passed away peacefully yesterday at his home in England.

Moore was one of Great Britain's most recognizable personalities. He had a glittering career as a writer and broadcaster of astronomy, most famously presenting BBC mainstay The Sky at Night for over half a century. Yet he wasn't afraid to present himself unseriously, as British gamers who grew up in the 1990s will undoubtedly remember.

As the face, or more specifically the cyborg head of GamesMaster, Moore was an integral part of one of the few successful video game shows TV can boast. Although his stint on GamesMaster was likely only a minor sideline in his incredible life, this tribute video by Big Daddy D shows just how memorable it was.

Joystiq'GamesMaster' Sir Patrick Moore has died originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Dec 2012 11:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deathgamesmasterripsir-patrick-mooreukMon, 10 Dec 2012 11:25:00 EST<![CDATA[UK gaming pioneer Mike Singleton dies at 61]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/16/uk-gaming-pioneer-mike-singleton-dies-at-61/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/16/uk-gaming-pioneer-mike-singleton-dies-at-61/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/16/uk-gaming-pioneer-mike-singleton-dies-at-61/#comments UK gaming pioneer Mike Singleton died today, aged 61Mike Singleton, a prominent and prolific game developer based in the UK, died on October 10 of natural causes at the age of 61, following a year-long battle with jaw cancer. Singleton was responsible for a few games that serve as the foundation of home entertainment, including Space Ace for the Commodore VIC-20, War in Middle Earth for the ZX Spectrum, Midwinter and Midwinter 2 for Atari ST, Amiga and PC, and more recently GRID for PS3, Xbox 360 and PC.

A friend and previous employee of Singleton's has a heartfelt dedication to his work and life here, along with a list of all the games Singleton created or had a hand in. The friend writes, "Next time you pop in a disk, raise a glass and say 'Cheers Singo!'"

Cheers.

JoystiqUK gaming pioneer Mike Singleton dies at 61 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 16 Oct 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carrier-commanddeathdiedgridmicrosoftmidwintermidwinter-2mike-singletonnintendopcplaystationps3space-aceukwar-in-middle-earthwiiwii-uxboxTue, 16 Oct 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Warcraft cities become insta-deathtraps, hacker suspected]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/07/world-of-warcraft-cities-become-insta-deathtraps-hacker-suspect/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/07/world-of-warcraft-cities-become-insta-deathtraps-hacker-suspect/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/07/world-of-warcraft-cities-become-insta-deathtraps-hacker-suspect/#comments

Entire cities of players and NPCs in World of Warcraft are being wiped out in a solitary blow, WoW Insider reports. The death traps began on European servers, in the cities of Ogrimmar and Stormwind, and have since spread to Tarren Mill, Ragnaros, Draenor, Twisting Nether and other realms, and include US servers, according to player reports.

A few videos document the phenomenon, showing level one characters insta-killing everyone in the area and the subsequent graveyards. The above video shows a level one Priest as he takes out everyone around him in Stormwind (the YouTube description reads, "The guy laughing is not the hacker!").

Blizzard has yet to comment officially.

JoystiqWorld of Warcraft cities become insta-deathtraps, hacker suspected originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 07 Oct 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Blizzarddeathhackinsta-deathmacpcWorld-of-WarcraftWoWSun, 07 Oct 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Yesterday's gritty, gutsy style makes us excited for tomorrow]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/yesterdays-gritty-gutsy-style-makes-us-excited-for-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/yesterdays-gritty-gutsy-style-makes-us-excited-for-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/yesterdays-gritty-gutsy-style-makes-us-excited-for-tomorrow/#comments Welcome to the Renaissance.

The point-and-click adventure is back and it has nothing to do with Tim Schafer, Double Fine or Kickstarter. This particular revolution is being led by Pendulo Studios' gritty, stylized PC thriller, Yesterday, which marks a departure from the developer's previous title, The Next Big Thing, in a few crucial and exciting ways:
  • Yesterday is not a comedy, though the dialogue retains a brilliant wit.
  • It has nothing to do with the film industry.
  • It involves the psychological analysis of a homeless man who believes his son, who was definitely killed in a tragic subway-tunnel collapse, is still alive.
Maybe you have to be just as disturbed as Pendulo's fictional homeless man to really appreciate that last one, but if you are -- boy is it a treat.

Pendulo has a solid track record in the point-and-click adventure genre -- they liked it before it was cool, even -- with the Runaway series and The Next Big Thing, but the studio had something to prove when it boldly announced that it was giving up comedy to offer an original, dark thriller with Yesterday. The game retains Pendulo's trademark art style, exaggerated features and colors that appear hand-painted over 3D models, and it is just as appealing as it was in 2003. This time around, however, not just the story is darker, but the palate is as well, with much of what I played taking place in a derelict, abandoned subway channel (I bet you can guess which one).

Continue reading Yesterday's gritty, gutsy style makes us excited for tomorrow

JoystiqYesterday's gritty, gutsy style makes us excited for tomorrow originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Feb 2012 07:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chokedeathGreedHenry-Whitehomelessinsanitypcpendulopendulo-studiosPoint-and-ClickSamuel-CoopersubwayyesterdayFri, 24 Feb 2012 07:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Darksiders 2 introduces Death's swiss army scythe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/21/darksiders-2-introduces-deaths-swiss-army-scythe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/21/darksiders-2-introduces-deaths-swiss-army-scythe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/21/darksiders-2-introduces-deaths-swiss-army-scythe/#comments
Have you ever wondered what Death, the dude, is really like? Who hasn't? Thankfully, the Darksiders 2 devs at Vigil Games prepared this intro video for us, full of sincere remarks about a mythical horsemen of the apocalypse and how he acts in their upcoming game.

JoystiqDarksiders 2 introduces Death's swiss army scythe originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 21 Jan 2012 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>darksiders-2deathgameplaymicrosoftpcplaystationps3thqvigilvigil-gamesxboxSat, 21 Jan 2012 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Katy Perry bringing fruit dresses, more to The Sims 3 Showtime]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/17/katy-perry-bringing-fruit-dresses-more-to-the-sims-3-showtime/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/17/katy-perry-bringing-fruit-dresses-more-to-the-sims-3-showtime/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/17/katy-perry-bringing-fruit-dresses-more-to-the-sims-3-showtime/#comments

Katy Perry has conquered the celebrity scene in reality and has moved to take over virtual realms, starting with The Sims. The collector's edition of The Sims 3 Showtime, which launches in March, will feature the Ultimate Stage bonus venue, Katy Perry themed items and a poster, as well as advertising campaigns featuring Perry herself, starting with the above music video.

Not to brag, but we've listened to "The One that got Away" a few dozen times before, and we never imagined it as a story about the tragic death of anyone's soulmate, probably because it's actually about failed teenage love and the dangers of dating a boy who plays guitar. Maybe death sells more games, though. Maybe.

Gallery: The Sims 3: Showtime (Katy Perry)

JoystiqKaty Perry bringing fruit dresses, more to The Sims 3 Showtime originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Jan 2012 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deathkaty-perrymacpcThe-Sims-3The-Sims-3-ShowtimeTue, 17 Jan 2012 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Darksiders 2's latest tease gets up close and personal with Death]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/12/darksiders-2s-latest-tease-gets-up-close-and-personal-with-deat/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/12/darksiders-2s-latest-tease-gets-up-close-and-personal-with-deat/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/12/darksiders-2s-latest-tease-gets-up-close-and-personal-with-deat/#comments
There's a possibility that the Darksiders 2 tease above is actually referencing Skeletor and/or Glenn Danzig, but we're pretty sure it's that other horseman of the apocalypse, Death. Either way, we're gonna go listen to the Misfits and watch Masters of the Universe for a bit. Just in case.

JoystiqDarksiders 2's latest tease gets up close and personal with Death originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Dec 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>darksiders-2deathmicrosoftpcplaystationps3teasethqvigilvigil-gamesxboxMon, 12 Dec 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple founder Steve Jobs passes away at 56]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/05/apple-founder-steve-jobs-passes-away-at-56/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/05/apple-founder-steve-jobs-passes-away-at-56/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/05/apple-founder-steve-jobs-passes-away-at-56/#comments The Mac may have long since abdicated much of a claim to gaming, but you would need to be blind to have missed the marked effect on gaming made by the iPhone and iOS over the last three years. With that in mind, we'd be remiss in ignoring former Apple CEO and founder Steve Jobs passing today at the age of 56. Jobs stepped down from his CEO position earlier this year due to his waning health. Jobs is survived by his wife Laurene and his three children, and his biological sister Mona Simpson.

JoystiqApple founder Steve Jobs passes away at 56 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Oct 2011 20:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appledeathiosiphonemacmobilesteve-jobsWed, 05 Oct 2011 20:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Darksiders 2 preview: Death pays a visit]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/22/darksiders-2-preview-death-pays-a-visit/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/22/darksiders-2-preview-death-pays-a-visit/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/22/darksiders-2-preview-death-pays-a-visit/#comments So you have a pretty popular game, starring an interesting and original rendition of one of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. It sells well. In fact, it sells well enough that it gives a distraught publisher a much-needed influx of revenue and then, when the time comes to make the sequel, you decide to completely replace the protagonist everyone knows, and bring in a brand new character that wasn't ever seen in the first game.

That's what comic book artist-turned Vigil Games founder Joe Madureira did, and though Darksiders 2 definitely looks like it's turning out well, even he says he had doubts. "I still wonder if it's a smart thing," he told me at Comic-Con this week, "because usually when you're building a franchise around a character, you really try and keep the same character." Well, yeah.

"But it was a momentary apprehension. As soon as we concepted him and we had him running in the game, it was a cooler character." He says that THQ didn't have a problem with the change either: "They were like, yeah, this is a cool idea."

Gallery: Darksiders 2 (7/19/11)

Continue reading Darksiders 2 preview: Death pays a visit

JoystiqDarksiders 2 preview: Death pays a visit originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Jul 2011 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comic-con-2011darksiders-2deathjoe-madureiramicrosoftplaystationps3sdcc-2011thqwarxboxFri, 22 Jul 2011 18:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Darksiders 2 extended announcement trailer (re)introduces Death]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/19/darksiders-2-extended-announcement-trailer-re-introduces-death/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/19/darksiders-2-extended-announcement-trailer-re-introduces-death/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/19/darksiders-2-extended-announcement-trailer-re-introduces-death/#comments
Look, we can suspend our disbelief with the best of them, but one thing irks us about this extended version of the Darksiders 2 announcement trailer: how can Death speak without a mouth? Last time we checked, you needed lips and a tongue to talk.

Continue reading Darksiders 2 extended announcement trailer (re)introduces Death

JoystiqDarksiders 2 extended announcement trailer (re)introduces Death originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Jul 2011 15:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>darksiders-2deathmicrosoftplaystationps3thqvigil-gamesxboxTue, 19 Jul 2011 15:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Witcher 2's 'Insane' difficulty mode offers no respawn, only permanent death]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/17/witcher-2s-insane-difficulty-mode-offers-no-respawn-only-per/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/17/witcher-2s-insane-difficulty-mode-offers-no-respawn-only-per/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/17/witcher-2s-insane-difficulty-mode-offers-no-respawn-only-per/#comments The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings will include "permanent death" as an ominous feature of its "Insane" difficulty option. Eurogamer spoke with CD Projekt gameplay designer Mateusz Kanik, who explained that players can save the game on Insane, but if they die that career string will be disabled for reloading. However, the developer does plan on adding a "resurrection scroll; maybe DLC or something."

The harsh design decision comes from CD Projekt's admiration for the notoriously sinister Demon's Souls' lovingly abusive relationship with the player. Kanik added that there will be an achievement "for sure" for beating the game on Insane. Come on, CD Projekt, at least offer up one of those Witcher heads for the accomplishment, considering death is on the line.

JoystiqWitcher 2's 'Insane' difficulty mode offers no respawn, only permanent death originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 Dec 2010 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CD-Projektdeathpcthe-witcher-2the-witcher-2-assassins-of-kingsFri, 17 Dec 2010 11:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Atari bringing action RPG Venetica to North America in January]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/01/atari-bringing-action-rpg-venetica-to-north-america-in-january/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/01/atari-bringing-action-rpg-venetica-to-north-america-in-january/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/01/atari-bringing-action-rpg-venetica-to-north-america-in-january/#comments Venetica didn't really win critics over back when it was released in Germany -- while the story is supposed to be pretty good, the gameplay was called bland and repetitive. Nevertheless, Atari is bringing the game to North America, and will release it on the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and PC on January 11 of next year.

Venetica takes place in 16th century Venice, and casts the player in the role of a girl named Scarlett, who just so happens to be Death's daughter. She has to save the world and her father from a powerful necromancer. Sounds like fun -- just be careful around Death, otherwise he might end up making you do his job for him.

JoystiqAtari bringing action RPG Venetica to North America in January originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Dec 2010 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atarideathdeck-13germanymicrosoftpcplaystationps3release-daterombax-gamesveneticaxboxWed, 01 Dec 2010 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hardcore mode coming to Minecraft, the world ends when you die]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/23/hardcore-mode-coming-to-minecraft-the-world-ends-when-you-die/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/23/hardcore-mode-coming-to-minecraft-the-world-ends-when-you-die/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/23/hardcore-mode-coming-to-minecraft-the-world-ends-when-you-die/#comments Some madman over at PC Gamer has been trying out something called the "Minecraft Experiment," in which player death results in the immediate deletion of the world he or she has been working so hard to spruce up. The game's creator, Markus Persson recently posted on his blog that the feature series has inspired him to include a similar "Hardcore" mode in the game, where the world will be destroyed and reset every time the player gets killed by a Creeper, skeleton, gravity or any of the other deadly forces present in the game.

Look, we have a hard enough time rationalizing the remarkable amounts of time we put into this game already. To play a mode where, with one missed jump, entire weeks of our lives are erased, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind-style? That's straight-up masochism, dudes.

JoystiqHardcore mode coming to Minecraft, the world ends when you die originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Nov 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deathhardcoreMarkus-PerssonMinecraftpcTue, 23 Nov 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[THQ and Jakks Pacific founder Jack Friedman passes away at 70]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/05/thq-and-jakks-pacific-founder-jack-friedman-passes-away-at-70/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/05/thq-and-jakks-pacific-founder-jack-friedman-passes-away-at-70/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/05/thq-and-jakks-pacific-founder-jack-friedman-passes-away-at-70/#comments After being hospitalized for several weeks, THQ and Jakks Pacific founder Jack Friedman passed away yesterday at the age of 70. Friedman started THQ in 1989 and led the company for six years, when he founded toymaker Jakks Pacific and served as chairman and CEO until March of this year.

Before founding THQ in the late '80s, Friedman held a position at LJN Toys, helping to develop licensed toys for major motion pictures (E.T., among others). When the company was purchased by MCA in 1985, Friedman moved on and eventually founded "Toy Headquarters" (THQ) with $1 million of his own startup capital. Jakks Pacific CEO Stephen Berman said of his company's founder and former CEO, " Jack was a legendary toymaker and a real titan in our industry. He dedicated his talents to Jakks Pacific for 15 years, and he will be sorely missed. On behalf of all Jakks employees, we send our sincere condolences to his wife Karen and his children for their loss."

[Via Gamasutra]

JoystiqTHQ and Jakks Pacific founder Jack Friedman passes away at 70 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 May 2010 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deathjack-friedmanjakks-pacificstephen-bermanthqWed, 05 May 2010 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC: R.A. Salvatore wants you to die]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/12/gdc-r-a-salvatore-wants-you-to-die/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/12/gdc-r-a-salvatore-wants-you-to-die/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/12/gdc-r-a-salvatore-wants-you-to-die/#comments Fantasy author R.A. Salvatore took the stage at GDC 2010 today and, while he made it clear that his talk about how to create believable fantasy worlds wasn't specifically about his work with 38 Studios' Copernicus project, he did talk a little bit about what he wants from an MMO game and gave the first mention of what the world of Curt Schilling's game is like. Salvatore talked for quite a while in his thick Massachusetts accent about his time in Everquest, which he said was "the best world in a game I've ever seen." He also lauded the idea of a death penalty in an MMO, and said that during his formative MMO experiences the threat of death (he once lost a hard-earned level when he was killed by an NPC that he accidentally clicked to attack) made living that much better. "If you take the pain out of the world," he said, "you lose the accomplishment of winning."

And while he admitted that the Copernicus designers were fighting with him on whether or not to include a death penalty in the game, the company would at least make sure that a return from death was explained. His team has written over 10,000 years of history for the game's world (all compiled on "a wiki with over hundreds of pages in it"), and one of the major features of the setting's lore is a "device that's perfected" called the "Well of Souls." The Well, "when you die, will bring you back -- if you meet the conditions." He didn't elaborate about what those conditions were, but he asked the audience what a worldwide death-prevention device would do to institutions like kings and religions. "What happens when you take power away from powerful people?" he asked rhetorically. "How would it play out?" And, he suggested, if there were people who "turned the Well on," what if they threatened the rest of the world with turning it off?

Vague, but intriguing. Copernicus still seems like it has a long way to go (Salvatore didn't show any slides or screenshots during his talk), but fans of the old EQ might find the game a return to the old ways if R.A. has his say.

JoystiqGDC: R.A. Salvatore wants you to die originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Mar 2010 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studioscopernicuscurt-schillingdeatheqeverquestfantasygamegdc-2010mmora-salvatoreworldFri, 12 Mar 2010 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Police suspect suicide in death of Japanese voice actor]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/19/police-suspect-suicide-in-death-of-japanese-voice-actor/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/19/police-suspect-suicide-in-death-of-japanese-voice-actor/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/19/police-suspect-suicide-in-death-of-japanese-voice-actor/#comments Japanese voice actor Daisuke Gōri (real name: Yoshio Nagahori) passed away under somewhat bizarre circumstances in Tokyo this weekend -- he was found lying on his stomach in the streets of Nakano ward, bleeding from the wrist, with both a sharp weapon and his will lying nearby. Police are investigating the death as a suicide, though they haven't confirmed that ruling yet.

Gōri had an extensive resume as a voice actor in both animation and video games, and is probably known best as the Japanese voices for both Tekken's Heihachi Mishima and Dead or Alive's Bass Armstrong. In Japan, he was renowned for doing voices for the Dragon Ball Z and Kinnikuman series. He was 57.

[Via Kotaku]

JoystiqPolice suspect suicide in death of Japanese voice actor originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Jan 2010 03:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animationbass-armstrongdaisuke-goridead-or-alivedeathheihachi-mishimajapanjapanesenakanosuicidetekkenvideo-gamesvoice-actorTue, 19 Jan 2010 03:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Activision remembers DJ AM's work on DJ Hero]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/31/activision-remembers-dj-ams-work-on-dj-hero/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/31/activision-remembers-dj-ams-work-on-dj-hero/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/31/activision-remembers-dj-ams-work-on-dj-hero/#comments Late last week, Adam 'DJ AM' Goldstein tragically and suddenly passed away. He was known in the world of gaming for his work on DJ Hero, contributing both music and ideas to the upcoming music/rhythm project. We watched as he and Travis Barker warmed up the crowd for Eminem and Jay-Z just a few short months ago at E3 2009.

Having worked with Goldstein so closely as of late, we asked Activision for comment. VP of music affairs Tim Riley told us over the weekend:
We are deeply saddened by the loss of DJ AM, who was a tremendous talent, a trusted partner and friend to DJ Hero. Our thoughts and prayers are with his friends and family. AM was instrumental in the making of DJ Hero and we hope that his work on the game will be a fitting tribute to his creative spirit and musical talent.
Joystiq would like to offer our condolences to DJ AM's family, friends, and anyone else effected by his passing.

JoystiqActivision remembers DJ AM's work on DJ Hero originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 31 Aug 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionadam-goldsteindeathdj-amdj-heroeminemjay-zobituaryMon, 31 Aug 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BioShock 2 lets you shut off the Vita Chambers, die]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/25/bioshock-2-lets-you-shut-off-the-vita-chambers-die/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/25/bioshock-2-lets-you-shut-off-the-vita-chambers-die/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/25/bioshock-2-lets-you-shut-off-the-vita-chambers-die/#comments
Any masochists in the room? Don't be shy, go ahead and raise your self-battered hands. We've got great news for these deviant individuals -- in a recent interview with CVG, 2K Marin executive producer Alyssa Finley explained that the original BioShock's easily exploitable respawn points, Vita Chambers, can be turned off in BioShock 2, allowing the player to die without the luxury of a self-cloning safety net.

It was an option that last year's BioShock DLC (as well as the PS3 version of the game) afforded to its more hardcore players. And by "hardcore," we mean "absolutely insane." Seriously, during our first jaunt through Rapture, we died more times than Bill Murray did in Groundhog Day.

JoystiqBioShock 2 lets you shut off the Vita Chambers, die originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 May 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-games2k-marinbioshockbioshock-2deathMicrosoftrespawnvita-chambersXbox-360Mon, 25 May 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Kojima wants to make games until he dies]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/28/kojima-wants-to-make-games-until-he-dies/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/28/kojima-wants-to-make-games-until-he-dies/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/28/kojima-wants-to-make-games-until-he-dies/#comments
During an appearance at an Apple Store in Ginza, Tokyo, Metal Gear maven Hideo Kojima was questioned by a concerned, rabid fan as to just how long he planned to remain in the industry. Kojima proudly displayed a mock resume, which contained the answer to the aforementioned question: "I'd like to continue being on the scene making games until I die." The MGS fans within us certainly hope his life will be as long as his cutscenes, relatively speaking.

He went on to explain that the only thing that could lure him away from the world of game development is, of course, space travel. Oh, aeronautical exploration! Does your temptation know no bounds?

JoystiqKojima wants to make games until he dies originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 28 Apr 2009 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deathdiehideo-kojimakojimametal-gear-solidmgsresumespace-travelTue, 28 Apr 2009 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[D&D co-creator Dave Arneson dead at 61]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/09/dandd-co-creator-dave-arneson-dead-at-61/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/09/dandd-co-creator-dave-arneson-dead-at-61/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/09/dandd-co-creator-dave-arneson-dead-at-61/#comments
After a long battle with cancer, Dungeons and Dragons co-creator Dave Arneson passed away in his sleep late Tuesday night. The sad news came from an e-mail from Arneson's family, which includes details on where to send condolences, as well as the time and location for his visitation. We extend our deepest sympathies to Arneson's family and loved ones as they cope with the loss of this truly remarkable man.

Even if you've never hurled icosahedrons with a group of fantasy-obsessed friends, Arneson, along with D&D co-creator Gary Gygax (who sadly passed away last year), is responsible for the evolution of the RPG format as we know it today. Though the influential hobby's creators have passed away, their legacy will live on through the skittering of dice across tables worldwide. Rest in peace, Mr. Arneson.

JoystiqD&D co-creator Dave Arneson dead at 61 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Apr 2009 12:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dave-arnesondeathdungeons-and-dragonsgary-gygaxobituaryRPGtabletop-gamingThu, 09 Apr 2009 12:32:00 EST<![CDATA[D&D co-creator Dave Arneson in hospice care [update 2]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/07/dandd-co-creator-dave-arneson-has-died/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/07/dandd-co-creator-dave-arneson-has-died/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/07/dandd-co-creator-dave-arneson-has-died/#comments
[Update 2: Joystiq has learned that Mr. Arneson passed away on Tuesday, April 7. Our condolences to his friends and family.]

Dave Arneson, half of the duo -- the other half being Gary Gygax -- that created influential tabletop RPG Dungeons & Dragons, passed away earlier today is still alive "in a hospice where he is being cared for at this time," according to Grognardia. Updating the original post regarding Mr. Arneson, Grognardia says, "I am both glad to hear that Dave is not dead, as I was led to believe, and rather mortified at my having posted this information before it had been confirmed by a second source. I had no reason to doubt my original source, given his close proximity to Dave, but apparently I should have." He's not the only one who feels this way, trust us. The rest of the original post we wrote remains as it was, below.

Known recently for his teaching at Full Sail College in Florida as well as his fantasy RPG Blackmoor, Arneson had been struggling with his health ever since a stroke in 2002. According to The Escapist, Arneson's health worsened last week and he was admitted to the hospital. Unfortunately this morning, things took a turn for the worse. We here at Joystiq extend our deepest condolences to those affected by Dave Arneson's passing, especially his loved ones.

[Thanks, Jeremiah]

JoystiqD&D co-creator Dave Arneson in hospice care [update 2] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 Apr 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blackmoordave-arnesondeathdungeons-and-dragonsfull-sail-collegegary-gygaxrpgthe-escapistTue, 07 Apr 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Circuit City blows its last fuse, all remaining stores to be liquidated]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/16/circuit-city-blows-its-last-fuse-all-remaining-stores-to-be-liq/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/16/circuit-city-blows-its-last-fuse-all-remaining-stores-to-be-liq/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/16/circuit-city-blows-its-last-fuse-all-remaining-stores-to-be-liq/#commentsFiled under:


Circuit City announced today it will liquidate all remaining 567 US stores after failing to find a buyer or figure out a refinancing deal, reports the AP. The nation's second-largest electronics retailer filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection late last year; at the time it held 5-10% of the US video game market.

Consumers should keep an eye out for any sales following the announcement. No word on how this will affect game pre-orders, but we strongly recommend trying to get your money back, like, now.

JoystiqCircuit City blows its last fuse, all remaining stores to be liquidated originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Jan 2009 12:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bankruptcycircuit-ctydeathliquidateFri, 16 Jan 2009 12:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Branching Dialogue: R.I.P. Death]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/23/branching-dialogue-r-i-p-death/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/23/branching-dialogue-r-i-p-death/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/23/branching-dialogue-r-i-p-death/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Presenting Branching Dialogue, a weekly, wordy and often worryingly pedantic discussion of video game genres, trends and err ... stuff I didn't think to put in this introductory line.
If there's one thing the year 2008 has proven adept at, it's polarizing players with titles that seem to generate more discussion than actual sales. Much like Assassin's Creed before it, Ubisoft's Prince of Persia has been viciously yanking people off fences, this time with simplified controls, Open-World Lite[TM] platforming and sassy, cel-shaded protagonists.

The game's difficulty (or supposed lack thereof) has also come under scrutiny, with some tough-guy gamers lamenting the Prince's newly found and quite convenient resistance to death. I don't wish to argue with the complaint ... but I do want to pluralize it. "This game is not difficult," and, "You can't die in this game," are two very different accusations, and one of them is more than a little unobservant of modern conventions.

I hate to break it to you guys, but death has been pushing up daisies for years.

Continue reading Branching Dialogue: R.I.P. Death

JoystiqBranching Dialogue: R.I.P. Death originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Dec 2008 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Branching-DialogueDeathJoystiqFeaturesJS-TwitterMicrosoftPCPrince-of-PersiaPrince-of-Persia-2008PS3UbisoftUbisoft-MontrealXbox-360Tue, 23 Dec 2008 20:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Murder linked to Advance Wars forum]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/26/murder-linked-to-advance-wars-forum/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/26/murder-linked-to-advance-wars-forum/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/26/murder-linked-to-advance-wars-forum/#commentsFiled under:


Details are still very sketchy on the murder of a 20-year-old British man, allegedly killed by someone he'd met on an Advance Wars forum. The BBC reports Matthew Pyke, who ran the forum, is suspected to have been stabbed to death at his home in Nottingham by a man currently in custody with German police. The 21-year-old suspect, whose name has been withheld by authorities, is currently in Frankfurt for an extradition hearing.

All the German police will say at this point is that the two men "got to know each other through the internet" on Pyke's Advance Wars website.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in.]

JoystiqMurder linked to Advance Wars forum originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Sep 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advance-warsdeathgermanykillmatthew-pykemurderFri, 26 Sep 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Stare Death in the face in Castlevania Judgment]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/22/stare-death-in-the-face-in-castlevania-judgment/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/22/stare-death-in-the-face-in-castlevania-judgment/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/22/stare-death-in-the-face-in-castlevania-judgment/#commentsFiled under:

The official site for Castlevania Judgment has profiled two new characters for the fighting game, adding an obscure hero and one of the most common baddies to the cast.

Eric Lecarde was playable in only one Castlevania game, Castlevania: Bloodlines for the Genesis (though he did pop up as a helpful ghost in Castlevania: Portrait of Ruin), and in Judgment he'll look every bit as effeminate as he did in the character art for Bloodlines. What is a man? Answer: not Eric Lecarde.

The second new combatant is familiar foe and all-round cheery chap Death, whose design in Judgment actually looks totally badass and is our favorite rendering of the character so far, even beating his design in Castlevania: Dawn of Sorrow. We're guessing you can expect to have many a spinning scythe lobbed at your face.


[Via Go Nintendo]

JoystiqStare Death in the face in Castlevania Judgment originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 22 Sep 2008 18:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>castlevaniacastlevania-judgmentdeatheric-lecardefightingkonamiMon, 22 Sep 2008 18:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Hell hath no Fury, neither does anyone else now]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/05/hell-hath-no-fury-neither-does-anyone-else-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/05/hell-hath-no-fury-neither-does-anyone-else-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/05/hell-hath-no-fury-neither-does-anyone-else-now/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Auran's reportedly $13.2 million PvP-based MMO disaster Fury will shut down within the next 48 hours. The official Fury forums announced those handling the game could not find a way to keep the servers running, so both the game servers and Fury forums will shut down imminently.

We're not exactly sure who was running Fury, as developer Auran shut down late last year after the game failed to catch on. Obviously, we know this comes as a shock to the handful out there still playing Fury, but there's whole worlds of MMO titles out there to explore. We know it's hard, but it's best to accept it and move on.

[Via Massively]

JoystiqHell hath no Fury, neither does anyone else now originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Aug 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aurandeathfuryPCTue, 05 Aug 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[VP says Gametap's troubles are 'greatly exaggerated']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/vp-says-gametaps-troubles-are-greatly-exaggerated/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/vp-says-gametaps-troubles-are-greatly-exaggerated/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/vp-says-gametaps-troubles-are-greatly-exaggerated/#commentsFiled under: ,


In an interview with GameDaily, GameTap's VP of Content, Rick Sanchez, explains that rumors of the gaming-buffet's death are "greatly exaggerated." Although he avoids divulging whether GameTap is profitable, he does say that it is hitting parent company Turner Broadcasting's P&L (profits and losses) figures, so apparently it's still keeping daddy happy.

Although rumors of GameTap's demise have pretty much been present since the service launched -- something even Sanchez jokes about -- things went into overdrive after the company laid off its all-star editorial team. GameDaily reports it heard rumors in the wake of the firings that the service would remain online only as a shell until December and then be buried. Sanchez "categorically denies" any of that, pointing to Grimm and more announcements expected in the future as proof of the service's growth.

JoystiqVP says Gametap's troubles are 'greatly exaggerated' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Jul 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deathdyinggametapPCrick-sanchezsanchezThu, 03 Jul 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Man kills neighbor over missing PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/08/man-kills-neighbor-over-missing-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/08/man-kills-neighbor-over-missing-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/08/man-kills-neighbor-over-missing-ps3/#commentsFiled under:

Being a protective console owner is one thing, but taking obsessive love for one's system to violent ends is a whole other ballpark. Take the story of Edward Keith Stoddard Jr. who was arrested last night in Dade City for murdering his neighbor over a missing PlayStation 3. He's accused of murdering neighbor Douglas F. Abrams when the two were arguing over the PS3 in question on April 24.

It's such a sad thing to hear that someone had to die over something so trivial. Sure, most of us love our systems, but not enough to kill for it. It's not clear whether the PS3 was the only reason for the murder, but even if it wasn't, it wouldn't matter. The story would end the same -- someone's dead, the other's in jail, and the PS3 still missing.

[Via Digg]

JoystiqMan kills neighbor over missing PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 May 2008 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crimedeathThu, 08 May 2008 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA['Most shocking': The death of Jennifer Strange]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/31/most-shocking-the-death-of-jennifer-strange/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/31/most-shocking-the-death-of-jennifer-strange/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/31/most-shocking-the-death-of-jennifer-strange/#commentsFiled under:

The end of every year is fraught with polls and recaps, but this one easily caught our eye for a variety of reasons. The death of 28-year-old Jennifer Strange after a radio station's "Hold your Wee for a Wii" contest was voted the most shocking tech story of the year by readers at geeksugar. Would you agree? The story faced some fierce competition, particularly when considering that one of the other contenders was the story of a Nevada couple too wrapped up in their games to care for their young children. To us, the latter is certainly more horrific, but that wasn't the question.

Water intoxication is not exactly a commonly known cause of death; it's one of those rarities that's always guaranteed to raise an eyebrow. But with the extreme demand for the Wii since its very release, it's hard to say we're surprised at the lengths people will go to get one. For once, however, we can easily say we'd rather see people paying scalpers on eBay than putting themselves at risk.

Joystiq'Most shocking': The death of Jennifer Strange originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 31 Dec 2007 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deathdemandJenniferStrangeshocking-newsMon, 31 Dec 2007 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Detroit prosecutor makes outdated violent games list for holidays]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/04/detroit-prosecutor-makes-outdated-violent-games-list-for-holiday/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/04/detroit-prosecutor-makes-outdated-violent-games-list-for-holiday/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/04/detroit-prosecutor-makes-outdated-violent-games-list-for-holiday/#commentsFiled under:

Detroit has a bit of a crime problem and prosecutor Kym Worthy is looking to bring that down by issuing her third annual list of the "Top 10 Most Violent Games" for parents. As GamePolitics points out, the list isn't looking to be topical or specific; wide brush strokes will do. For example, if reading literally, the original Grand Theft Auto, the original Manhunt, and last year's Scarface round out the top three. 50 Cent Bulletproof comes in at number four -- because that already forgotten 2005 title is on every any kid's wish list for 2007.

The problem with Worthy's list is its basic redundancy of what one would hope is common sense, because every title on her list is rated M. How about just telling parents not to buy M-rated games for their kids? Blanket statement, end of story. Why pick and choose games when the ESRB has been kind enough to slap an M on the cover, giving parents adequate warning in the first place?

JoystiqDetroit prosecutor makes outdated violent games list for holidays originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 Dec 2007 14:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deathdetroitkillkym-worthymurderviolentworthyTue, 04 Dec 2007 14:56:00 EST<![CDATA[The DS Life: God Bless You, Mr. Crabs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/14/the-ds-life-god-bless-you-mr-crabs/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/14/the-ds-life-god-bless-you-mr-crabs/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/14/the-ds-life-god-bless-you-mr-crabs/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The DS Life is a weekly feature in which we scour the known world for narrative images of Nintendo's handhelds and handheld gamers. If you have a photo and a story to match it with, send both to thedslife at dsfanboy dot com.

Mr. Crabs was an extraordinary creature, brilliant but brash. Always dreaming up new adventures, he promised us all that he was destined for big things. We pleaded with Mr. Crabs, "Don't go chasing waterfalls. Please stick to the rivers and the lakes that you're used to." But he shrugged off our pleas, setting out one day without notice to explore the world. It was that devil-may-care attitude of his that we all loved, and, ultimately, it was also what lead to his demise.

We gather here today to celebrate Mr. Crab's death by remembering not only how he lived, but also how his skeleton lived during the months long after his crustacean soul's passing. Scuttle sideways past the break and read on for the story of how a young crab in Santa Cruz became an international superstar with his debut on DS Fanboy's front page.

Continue reading The DS Life: God Bless You, Mr. Crabs

JoystiqThe DS Life: God Bless You, Mr. Crabs originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Nov 2007 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crabdeathexoskeletonmr-crabspetWed, 14 Nov 2007 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Chinese online gamer dies after three day stint]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/17/chinese-online-gamer-dies-after-three-day-stint/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/17/chinese-online-gamer-dies-after-three-day-stint/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/17/chinese-online-gamer-dies-after-three-day-stint/#commentsFiled under: , ,

A 30-year old Chinese man from Guangzhou reportedly died from exhaustion at an internet cafe after a three-day online gaming marathon.

Details from the incident are mixed: the Associated Press reports that he was declared dead at the cafe, whereas Reuters claims he was rushed to the hospital after fainting. Neither report mentions what games the man was playing. The Chinese government this year imposed restrictions on the amount of online gaming for minors in the country.

Let this be a reminder to you, dear reader, to get out of your seat and go for a walk every now and then, make yourself something to eat, shower, nap, maybe even do some homework.

[Thanks, Lucas]

Read -- Associated Press (via CNN)
Read -- Reuters (via Yahoo!)

JoystiqChinese online gamer dies after three day stint originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Sep 2007 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chinadeathinternetcafeMon, 17 Sep 2007 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Ring of death inspires Forza 2 artwork]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/09/ring-of-death-inspires-forza-2-artwork/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/09/ring-of-death-inspires-forza-2-artwork/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/09/ring-of-death-inspires-forza-2-artwork/#commentsFiled under:

Another Forza 2 customized paint job arrived in our inbox today and we thought its inspiration was noteworthy. Some of us (including me) have experienced the dreaded red lights and have had to deal with Microsoft's semi-helpful customer service to send off a broken 360. CoolNumber9 is having the same red ring of death problems and has been using the "towel trick" to keep it running long enough to make a ring of death inspired Forza 2 car. It may not be the most badass ride on the block, but anyone who has had to deal with the red lights will shudder when they see this beast in their rear view mirror. Long live die the ring of death!

And as always, send us your custom Forza 2 creations so we can add them to our lovely gallery below.

JoystiqRing of death inspires Forza 2 artwork originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 09 Jun 2007 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carcustomdeathforzaforza 2Forza2red ringred ring of deathRedRingRedRingOfDeathSat, 09 Jun 2007 18:15:00 EST<![CDATA[My, those dead Marios do pile up]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/05/my-those-dead-marios-do-pile-up/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/05/my-those-dead-marios-do-pile-up/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/05/my-those-dead-marios-do-pile-up/#commentsFiled under:



Did you ever wonder, the first time you were playing Super Mario Bros., just what happened to all those Marios you went through on your way to your goal? Just where do they fall? Is there some sort of bed of boiling lava down there? Does he fall into Mario hell? Apparently not -- it seems there's a mass grave filled with the corpses of your gaming history. We really feel for the guys who have to play the Mario death theme; the stench must be horrible.

We can't believe we missed this one the first time around -- it should be an instant classic. In fact, we'd like to see an entire series of these. We've killed off a lot of dudes while gaming, after all ....

[Via 1P Start]

JoystiqMy, those dead Marios do pile up originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Jun 2007 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artdeathhumormarionintendoTue, 05 Jun 2007 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Death Jr. and the preorder stylus of doom]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/27/death-jr-and-the-preorder-stylus-of-doom/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/27/death-jr-and-the-preorder-stylus-of-doom/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/27/death-jr-and-the-preorder-stylus-of-doom/#commentsFiled under:

Of all the preorder stylus bonuses we've seen, Death Jr. and the Science Fair of Doom's is easily the best. Konami has been encouraging gamers to reserve its 3D platformer with promises of a miniaturized scythe that doubles as a stylus. The preorder perk also comes with a plastic holder that clips the oversized pen to you DS Lite.

Though it makes for a great novelty item to enjoy with your game, the scythe also serves as a grim reminder that death is always close. Try as we might to avoid it, our end is always waiting, ready to steal our life's work -- or waste in some cases -- like a thief in the night. It doesn't seem like much of a bonus when you think about it like that, does it?

Death Jr. and the Science Fair of Doom won't appear on store shelves until May 22nd, but some online shops are already sending the preorder styli out. Head past the post break for CAG forumer Asgardian's photos of the Death Jr. stylus he received early.

[Via CAG]

Continue reading Death Jr. and the preorder stylus of doom

JoystiqDeath Jr. and the preorder stylus of doom originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Apr 2007 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bonusdeathdeathjrdeathjrandthesciencefairdeathjrandthesciencefairofdoomdsdslitegiftkonamilitenintendonintendodspreorderpreorderbonussciencefairscythestylistylusFri, 27 Apr 2007 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Oregon attempts game bill because Timmy broke Mary's arm]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/10/oregon-attempts-game-bill-because-timmy-broke-marys-arm/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/10/oregon-attempts-game-bill-because-timmy-broke-marys-arm/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/10/oregon-attempts-game-bill-because-timmy-broke-marys-arm/#commentsFiled under: ,

GamePolitics reports the Oregon House of Reps. is trying to blaze new trails by introducing a law making it unlawful to sell "ultra-violent" video games to people of the great state under 18 years of age. The bill was introduced by Rep. Arnie Roblan (D) and has no provision on what punishment would be given for those breaking the law, it also grants exception for parents who choose to purchase the game for their child. So, what's the point of this thing again?

Anyway, best part of the bill is the definition of "ultra-violent." The bill states, "'Ultra-violent video game' means a video game depicting serious injury to human beings in a manner that is especially heinous, atrocious or cruel." So, killing an alien, smearing its blood all over your avatar and then eating its entrails would be fine -- it's not a "human." That's quite speciesist, I hope the great state of Oregon has an excuse set up when the aliens arrive.

JoystiqOregon attempts game bill because Timmy broke Mary's arm originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Apr 2007 08:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deathgame billkillmurderoregonoregon trailultra-violentTue, 10 Apr 2007 08:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Warm Up: Morbid fantasy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/04/wii-warm-up-morbid-fantasy/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/04/wii-warm-up-morbid-fantasy/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/04/wii-warm-up-morbid-fantasy/#commentsFiled under: ,

Ewwwww.The Wii will play host to a wonderful plethora of violent games in the future: Manhunt, Sadness, and Resident Evil: Umbrella Chronicles are but a few. We can't help but wonder: how do you want to kill people in said titles? What wonderfully creative uses of the Wiimote can be conjured forth?

We can think of some good ones. Snapping someone's neck, slicing their throat with shards of glass, and shoving multiple Pez dispensers down their throat. Beat that! Dazzle us with your wit!

JoystiqWii Warm Up: Morbid fantasy originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Apr 2007 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DeathKillMorbidwwuWed, 04 Apr 2007 09:00:00 EST