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[The Sims 3: Barnacle Bay coming this fall]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/31/the-sims-3-barnacle-bay-expansion-coming-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/31/the-sims-3-barnacle-bay-expansion-coming-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/31/the-sims-3-barnacle-bay-expansion-coming-this-fall/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Embark on a quest for booty in the upcoming DLC, "Barnacle Bay," for The Sims 3 -- er, wait, we're mixing up our content here! Rather: You'll get to explore a tropical paradise in the Barnacle Bay, available for download this fall. Whether you decide to be a lowdown, dirty pirate on the hunt for treasure and grog, or a sightseeing tourist looking to soak up virtual sun, is up to you.

The Barnacle Bay area will be sold exclusively through The Sims 3 Store. Within, you'll discover new locales such as Founder's Beach, Goldbeard Galleon Gallery and Pirate's Hideaway -- plus several other locations and NPCs that await your inner Magellan. The expansion pack will also include "nearly two dozen" new items.

Gallery: The Sims 3 - Barnacle Bay

Continue reading The Sims 3: Barnacle Bay coming this fall

JoystiqThe Sims 3: Barnacle Bay coming this fall originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 31 Aug 2010 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>barnacle-baydlceaea-playEA-Redwood-ShoresexpansionpcThe-Sims-3the-sims-3-barnacle-bayTue, 31 Aug 2010 17:20:00 EST<![CDATA[EA expands Salt Lake studio, announces 'groundbreaking' new project]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/25/ea-expands-salt-lake-studio-announces-groundbreaking-new-proj/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/25/ea-expands-salt-lake-studio-announces-groundbreaking-new-proj/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/25/ea-expands-salt-lake-studio-announces-groundbreaking-new-proj/#commentsEA's got something cooking in Utah, as a recent press release states EA Salt Lake is getting some plush new office space downtown, as it gears up to undertake a "groundbreaking" new project and looks to hire people for "several critical leadership positions." EA Redwood Shores is also apparently getting in the mix, as executive producer Ben Bell told IndustryGamers his studio will enlist the aid of some of the best and brightest from over yonder.

Everyone is pretty mum on the subject of exactly what the project is right now, but, following EA's massive layoffs affecting 1,500 of its employees, Bell bills this expansion of talent to only "a few key positions right now." The new project will lean heavily on EA Salt Lake and EA Redwood Shores for most of the necessary personnel.

EA Salt Lake is perhaps best known for producing The Sims line of games. Maxis obviously created the franchise, but since the release of Spore, has been focusing primarily on that series. EA Salt Lake also handles the EA Play line of games, and has contributed Nerf N-Strike and Littlest Pet Shop. Now, we wouldn't want to speculate on what this new project is, but if you look at the studio's track record since officially becoming EA Salt Lake, one can't help but assume it'll be something on the PC or a Nintendo platform. That, or it's a golf game.

JoystiqEA expands Salt Lake studio, announces 'groundbreaking' new project originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Feb 2010 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ben-belleaea-redwood-shoresea-salt-lakeElectronic-Artslittlest-pet-shopnerf-n-strikethe-simsThu, 25 Feb 2010 16:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Dante's Inferno creators explain 'Violence' in latest dev diary]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/11/dantes-inferno-creators-explain-violence-in-latest-dev-diary/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/11/dantes-inferno-creators-explain-violence-in-latest-dev-diary/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/11/dantes-inferno-creators-explain-violence-in-latest-dev-diary/#comments You might be wondering exactly how Visceral Games managed to get a level themed after "Violence" into Dante's Inferno -- a game where the lead character spends roughly 100% of his time killing anything near him. We were wondering too, and so it was really nice of Visceral Games and EA to release the above dev diary for the "month of violence" that the game's marketing campaign is currently embracing to promote the game's level based on the seventh circle of Hell.

The real question now: what can we expect EA's marketing team during this month's theme? We're not sure just yet, but given its recent track record, we're hoping no one goes to our Editor-in-Chief's house to give him a lesson or two in violence.

Gallery: Dante's Inferno

JoystiqDante's Inferno creators explain 'Violence' in latest dev diary originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 Dec 2009 04:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionaction-adventuredantes-infernodev-diaryeaea-redwood-shoresElectronic-ArtsgameplayMicrosoftpctrailerviolencevisceral-gamesXbox-360Fri, 11 Dec 2009 04:35:00 EST<![CDATA[EA job listing hints at online multiplayer for Dead Space 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/14/ea-job-listing-hints-at-online-multiplayer-for-dead-space-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/14/ea-job-listing-hints-at-online-multiplayer-for-dead-space-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/14/ea-job-listing-hints-at-online-multiplayer-for-dead-space-2/#comments If an Electronic Arts job listing is any indication, Dead Space 2 is set to receive a gameplay feature that none of us saw coming -- online multiplayer support. The listing, which calls for the aid of a "Senior Online Level Designer," mentions that the new hire should "be able to work collaboratively with Creative Director and Online Producer to create extremely fun, satisfying and polished multiplayer levels." Those who desire to create droll, unsatisfying and shoddy multiplayer levels should probably look for employment elsewhere.

We'd call this move surprising based on the fact that we have no idea how it would work out. Given the first game's heavy focus on "strategic dismemberment," we can only imagine that multiplayer matches will quickly devolve into hilarious, appendage-removing duels. Kind of like Bushido Blade meets the Black Knight scene from Monty Python and the Holy Grail. (Actually, that sounds pretty awesome!)

[Thanks, Andrew!]

JoystiqEA job listing hints at online multiplayer for Dead Space 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 14 Nov 2009 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-spacedead-space-2eaea-redwood-shoresElectronic-Artshiringjob-listingmultiplayervisceral-gamesSat, 14 Nov 2009 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EA laying off 1,500 in new round of restructuring]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/09/report-ea-lays-off-staff-at-four-major-divisions/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/09/report-ea-lays-off-staff-at-four-major-divisions/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/09/report-ea-lays-off-staff-at-four-major-divisions/#comments We know at least four portions of EA that probably aren't thrilled about the Playfish acquisition. Gamasutra reports that significant layoffs have taken place at EA's Tiburon, Redwood Shores, Black Box, and Mythic divisions. Gamasutra suggests that the layoffs exceed the scope of EA's normal annual layoffs. We're attempting to verify the actual percentages with EA.

According to a tweet by Katherine Pitta, "Mythic Entertainment, responsible for Warhammer Online, just laid off 80 people, about 40% of it's employees." Former EA employee Eron Garcia estimated "HUGE chunks of EA" have been let go. Mythic has been subject to layoffs in the past, as has Need for Speed and Skate developer Black Box, which already had its studio closed last year as part of another widespread round of layoffs. Best of luck to everyone affected by the layoffs!

[Update: Approximately 1,500 people have been or will be laid off as a result of this year's cuts, EA reports in its earnings statement. Last year's "major" restructuring resulted in the loss of about 1,000 jobs.]

JoystiqEA laying off 1,500 in new round of restructuring originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Nov 2009 15:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-black-boxea-mythicea-redwood-shoresea-tiburonEARSElectronic-Artslayoffsmythic-entertainmentMon, 09 Nov 2009 15:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Dante's Inferno 'King Minos' bossfight looks more familiar than ever]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/26/dantes-inferno-king-minos-bossfight-looks-more-familiar-than/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/26/dantes-inferno-king-minos-bossfight-looks-more-familiar-than/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/26/dantes-inferno-king-minos-bossfight-looks-more-familiar-than/#comments
We've seen a decent amount of Dante's Inferno gameplay over the last nine months we've known of the game's existence -- and heard a lot of comparisons to God of War in the process -- but we didn't realize how spot on that was until we saw the video of Dante battling King Minos (found after the break). Judging souls in the second circle of Hell can be a tough job (don't we know it!), so Dante has apparently stopped by to relieve Minos of his duties. Rather than thanking him though, the grumpy old curmudgeon attacks Dante and all hell breaks loose! (Get it! 'Cause they're in Hell!)

All joking aside, the game looks to be more than competently cloning that other game where you spend time in The Netherworld, albeit with a multiplatform release. Now when's this thing coming out, EA? Hmmm?

Gallery: Dante's Inferno

Continue reading Dante's Inferno 'King Minos' bossfight looks more familiar than ever

JoystiqDante's Inferno 'King Minos' bossfight looks more familiar than ever originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 26 Jul 2009 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dantes-infernoeaea-redwood-shoresElectronic-Artsgamevideosgod-of-warMicrosofttrailervisceral-gamesXbox-360Sun, 26 Jul 2009 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Visceral execs wooed away from EA by Activision [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/22/rumor-visceral-execs-wooed-away-from-ea-by-activision/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/22/rumor-visceral-execs-wooed-away-from-ea-by-activision/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/22/rumor-visceral-execs-wooed-away-from-ea-by-activision/#comments
Update: An EA spokesperson confirmed to IndustryGamers that the two have indeed flown the coop. There's no word on replacements for them as of yet, but we'll be sure to keep you posted.

Original post: EA's Visceral Games (formerly EA Redwood Shores) may have lost two key personnel, if a rumor originating at GameSpot is to be believed. General manager Glen Schofield and COO Michael Condrey supposedly jumped ship to rival Activision, with a memo circulating at Visceral apparently describing the departure of the execs. Schofield is best known as the guy behind Dead Space, whereas Condrey got his start by directing this Levi's commercial.

This news comes following some job listings (via superannuation) for a San Mateo-based studio with Activision. The company currently has nothing in the area, so this lends credence to the rumor that Activision is looking to start up something around the Bay. Add what Schofield and Condrey bring to the table and you have the makings of a fine studio.

Inside sources close to GameSpot said the departure follows weeks of rumors circulating about Activision aggressively pursuing Visceral talent. We've put in word to EA and Activision for comment and will be sure to get back to you if we hear anything.

[Via Big Download]

JoystiqVisceral execs wooed away from EA by Activision [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Jul 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisiondead-spaceea-redwood-shoresglen-schofieldmichael-condreyrumorvisceral-gamesWed, 22 Jul 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dante's Inferno won't be burning on PCs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/20/dantes-inferno-wont-be-burning-on-pcs/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/20/dantes-inferno-wont-be-burning-on-pcs/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/20/dantes-inferno-wont-be-burning-on-pcs/#comments
For those of you hoping that upcoming Visceral Games hack-n-slash Dante's Inferno would be heading to your PC, prepare to be disappointed. Joystiq sister site Big Download received confirmation earlier today from EA that currently there are "no plans" for a PC release.

In fact, the representative at EA went one step further, not only confirming the game's console exclusivity but saying, "When Dante's Inferno was originally announced in December, we attached no platforms to the project ... when we came out with a first look for press in February we announced 360/PS3 and then in April we announced PSP ... We never announced a PC SKU nor are there plans for any." Sorry, PC gamers! Look at it this way: At least you can't "go to Hell" now! (Hey-o!)

Gallery: Dante's Inferno

JoystiqDante's Inferno won't be burning on PCs originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Jul 2009 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>big-downloaddantes-infernoeaea-redwood-shoresElectronic-Artspcvisceral-gamesMon, 20 Jul 2009 17:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Christian bloggers protesting fake EA protest]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/13/christian-bloggers-protesting-fake-ea-protest/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/13/christian-bloggers-protesting-fake-ea-protest/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/13/christian-bloggers-protesting-fake-ea-protest/#comments
After staging a protest/publicity stunt outside of E3 last week against upcoming EA game Dante's Inferno, the company is catching heat from Christian bloggers. InsideCatholic says on its website, "It's been clear for a while now that the entertainment industry views Christians on the whole as priggish, thin-skinned fun-killers," further wondering if "anyone at EA even read the Inferno."

Catholic Video Gamers fires an even more direct shot at EA's Dante's Inferno, saying, "Instead of engaging in a shamelessly anti-Christian stunt to promote your poor excuse of a product, maybe you ought to work on making this game, you know, something better than a blatant God of War rip-off." Wait, isn't Christianity all about forgiving? Oh well! Hopefully EA will think twice next time it decides to fake a protest and instead choose protesters without any major religious affiliation.

[Via GameSpot]

JoystiqChristian bloggers protesting fake EA protest originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 13 Jun 2009 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>catholic-video-gamerschristianitydantes-infernoeaea-redwood-shoreselectronic-artsinsidecatholicMicrosoftprotestreligionvisceral-gamesXbox-360Sat, 13 Jun 2009 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EA Redwood Shores becomes Visceral Games, gets moody logo]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/04/ea-redwood-shores-becomes-visceral-games-gets-moody-logo/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/04/ea-redwood-shores-becomes-visceral-games-gets-moody-logo/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/04/ea-redwood-shores-becomes-visceral-games-gets-moody-logo/#comments
EA Redwood Shores (aka EARS), an internal development studio within EA, was suffering a bit of an identity crisis. Known for making some of EA's best and brightest stuff -- including last year's Dead Space and the upcoming Dante's Inferno -- the studio just didn't feel right with such a ... less than descriptive name. That changed today, as its parent company EA announced a rebranding of the studio, now dubbed Visceral Games.

And while the studio is still working on the aforementioned Dante's Inferno as well as the now Wii-ified spin-off of Dead Space, titled Dead Space: Extraction, it's also apparently working on "two other unannounced titles." Little did we know! The studio claims to be identifiable as one with a "focus on creating intense action-oriented intellectual properties," a claim that needs little substantiation considering its back catalog. Now, can we hear a little bit more about those two unannounced titles please?

JoystiqEA Redwood Shores becomes Visceral Games, gets moody logo originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 May 2009 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessdantes-infernodead-spaceeaea-redwood-shoresElectronic-Artsglen-schofieldrebrandingvisceral-gamesMon, 04 May 2009 19:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq hands-on: Dante's Inferno]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/28/joystiq-hands-on-dantes-inferno/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/28/joystiq-hands-on-dantes-inferno/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/28/joystiq-hands-on-dantes-inferno/#comments

click to enlarge
In the summer of 2007, Electronic Arts and the US military began a top-secret project aimed at creating a perfect clone of God of War II. Before it could be completed, the game escaped, undergoing minor cosmetic surgery and adopting a new backstory in an attempt to elude its creators. It used the name ... Dante's Inferno.

At least that's how we like to romanticize the origin of Dante's Inferno. In reality, it's more of a shameless God of War play-exactly-alike than X-Men Origins: Wolverine could ever aspire to be -- but at least EA chose an excellent game to ape. Read on for our travelogue of the first circle of H. E. Double Hockey Sticks.

Gallery: Dante's Inferno (04-28-09)

Continue reading Joystiq hands-on: Dante's Inferno

JoystiqJoystiq hands-on: Dante's Inferno originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 28 Apr 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dantes-infernoeaea-redwood-shoreselectronic-artsMicrosoftXbox-360Tue, 28 Apr 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[First in-game images of Dante's Inferno PSP surface]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/26/first-in-game-images-of-dantes-inferno-psp-surface/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/26/first-in-game-images-of-dantes-inferno-psp-surface/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/26/first-in-game-images-of-dantes-inferno-psp-surface/#comments
Curious what hell looks like in the palm of your hand? Eurogamer.pt has posted a pair of in-game shots taken from the recently announced PSP version of Dante's Inferno, which, while impressive, only further cement the notion that this particular take on Divine Comedy offers the liberalest of interpretations.

Set to ship sometime in 2010 alongside home console versions, Dante's Inferno for the PSP is being jointly developed by EA Redwood Shores and Wet developer A2M. The Prince of Lies' involvement in the project, however, remains purely rumor and speculation -- but, we can hear him whispering, whispering, whisper ...

Gallery: Dante's Inferno (PSP)

JoystiqFirst in-game images of Dante's Inferno PSP surface originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 26 Apr 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a2mdantes-infernoeaea-redwood-shoresElectronic-ArtsSun, 26 Apr 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dante's Inferno set to burn up PSP next year]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/22/dantes-inferno-set-to-burn-up-psp-next-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/22/dantes-inferno-set-to-burn-up-psp-next-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/22/dantes-inferno-set-to-burn-up-psp-next-year/#comments
Electronic Arts has announced that its forthcoming, hellish action romp, Dante's Inferno, will be heating up the PSP in 2010. The portable version will ship alongside those previously announced for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3, with Wet developer A2M working with EA Redwood Shores to translate the game's nine circles of hell onto the small screen.

Even with this news, details remain scant on the project. Still, given the game's purported God of War-style gameplay, we have high hopes that Dante will be able to follow in the Ghost of Sparta's miniaturized footsteps when Dante's Inferno ships for the PSP next year.

JoystiqDante's Inferno set to burn up PSP next year originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a2mdantes-infernoeaea-redwoodea-redwood-shoreselectronic-artsWed, 22 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq impressions: Dead Space: Extraction]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/10/joystiq-impressions-dead-space-extraction/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/10/joystiq-impressions-dead-space-extraction/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/10/joystiq-impressions-dead-space-extraction/#comments
click to enlarge The Dead Space: Extraction dev team would rather you didn't call its game an "on rails shooter." It prefers "guided first-person shooter experience." Whatever you decide to call it, there's no escaping (or being extracted from) the fact that this isn't a free-roaming FPS set in the Dead Space universe. Based on a recent live demo of the game we were given, though, it's clear this isn't a mindless shooting gallery, either.

Extraction builds not only on the audio-visual presentation of the original game -- and certainly looks & sounds the part -- but also on its unique gameplay mechanics, the most prominent of which being "strategic dismemberment." It also uses the Wii's controls to great effect, as we found during our 15 minutes in Hell (or something close and certainly scary, at least).

Gallery: Dead Space: Extraction

Continue reading Joystiq impressions: Dead Space: Extraction

JoystiqJoystiq impressions: Dead Space: Extraction originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 10 Apr 2009 17:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-spacedead-space-extractioneaea-redwood-shoreselectronic-artsNintendoWiiFri, 10 Apr 2009 17:32:00 EST<![CDATA[SXSW 2009: EA Dead Space - A Deep Media Case Study ]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/21/sxsw-2009-ea-dead-space-a-deep-media-case-study/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/21/sxsw-2009-ea-dead-space-a-deep-media-case-study/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/21/sxsw-2009-ea-dead-space-a-deep-media-case-study/#comments
One of SXSW's panels that showed off the effects of Panelitis Fakeoutitis (where a panel sounds much better on paper than it actually is) was "EA Dead Space: A Deep Case Media Study," which sounded like it would be a dissection of the game and what went into creating it.

A closer reading of the synopsis noted that it was all about "the method and the madness behind Electronic Arts' use of cross-platform marketing." Wait? What? Marketing?! Well, we went anyhow, and you can check out the highlights beyond the break.

Continue reading SXSW 2009: EA Dead Space - A Deep Media Case Study

JoystiqSXSW 2009: EA Dead Space - A Deep Media Case Study originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 21 Mar 2009 00:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Dead-SpaceDeep-FocusEAea-redwood-shoresElectronic-ArtsmarketingmediaMicrosoftscifispacesurvival-horrorsxswsxsw-2009Xbox-360Sat, 21 Mar 2009 00:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Godfather II release day patch adds new multiplayer mode]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/18/godfather-ii-release-day-patch-adds-new-multiplayer-mode/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/18/godfather-ii-release-day-patch-adds-new-multiplayer-mode/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/18/godfather-ii-release-day-patch-adds-new-multiplayer-mode/#comments EA hasn't been just kicking back, watching The Godfather II hype build ( ... it's building, right?). The Redwood Shores studio has been tinkering with the final game during the strategic delay, and EA has announced today that a new multiplayer mode will be added -- free -- in addition to the four preexisting modes. "Don Control" will be patched into the game on release day, April 7, and features a 16-player scenario where money from the single-player game is wagered for, well, ultimate Don-ination! (Geddit?)

Confirmation of the Godfather freebie comes just days after Capcom was forced to defend its $5 multiplayer patch for Resident Evil 5 after it became clear that the modes were being prepped before the game's release. Was EA's decision to offer Don Control for free (and not save it for post-release premium DLC) influenced by Capcom's faux pas -- perhaps even a subtle swipe at its industry competitor? We like to think EA is tossing in the new mode out of the kindness of its heart (its very strategic, consumer value-bearing heart). Then again, this is the same company charging $10 for XBLA Connect Four and Yahtzee -- a piece.

JoystiqGodfather II release day patch adds new multiplayer mode originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 Mar 2009 11:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>don-controleaea-redwood-shoresElectronic-Artsgodfathergodfather-2Microsoftmultiplayerthe-godfather-2Xbox-360Wed, 18 Mar 2009 11:08:00 EST<![CDATA[EA's Glen Schofield hopes Sony can 'figure it out' ]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/03/eas-glen-schofield-hopes-sony-can-figure-it-out/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/03/eas-glen-schofield-hopes-sony-can-figure-it-out/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/03/eas-glen-schofield-hopes-sony-can-figure-it-out/#commentsSpeaking to GI.biz, EA Redwood Shores manager Glen Schofield expressed hope that Sony can figure out what to do with PS3's relatively high price tag in a time of economic woe. The conglomerate faces massive losses from its computer entertainment division and declining sales for its flagship console, but Sony doesn't seem to see a problem. Some suggest a price cut would be beneficial (and believe is actually on the way), but Schofield isn't sure it's the best direction: "You know, I can't tell them what to do. I don't know their finances."

So what is Sony to do? It seems like the company is caught between a rock and a hard place. "They've been such a great, great partner," said Schofield. "I hope they get out of this and they figure it out and they're around for a long time." If outsiders like Schofield are worried for Sony ... imagine what its employees are feeling.

JoystiqEA's Glen Schofield hopes Sony can 'figure it out' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Mar 2009 19:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesseaea-redwood-shoresElectronic-Artsglen-schofieldplaystationplaystation-3ps3redwood-shoressonyTue, 03 Mar 2009 19:05:00 EST<![CDATA[EA's Schofield sticks to 'quality games' mantra]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/26/eas-schofield-sticks-to-quality-games-mantra/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/26/eas-schofield-sticks-to-quality-games-mantra/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/26/eas-schofield-sticks-to-quality-games-mantra/#comments
Though EA's pledge to focus on quality games and new IP may have resulted in critical approval and a more positive image among gamers, the company has still been forced to take serious financial cost-cutting measures in recent months. Thankfully, Glen Schofield, manager of EA's Redwood Shores studio, isn't about to let some unpleasant realities get in the way of staff morale and a commitment to top-notch titles.

"I said, look, I can't tell you if this is the end or not, but we're making some great games here," Schofield relayed to GI.biz. "If we continue to make great games, if we continue to push this, we're not going to lose our jobs. Because we're making great stuff." The studio hopes to follow up the positively received but commercially disappointing survival-horror, Dead Space, with potentially great stuff like The Godfather II and hellish actioner Dante's Inferno.

Schofield reportedly told his staff, "People who aren't making great games are going to lose their jobs. But if you're making quality and we continue to push on that, and you're a quality person then you're going to keep your job." That almost sounds like a threat, doesn't it? Talk about the man(tra) sticking it to you.

JoystiqEA's Schofield sticks to 'quality games' mantra originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Feb 2009 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BusinessDantes-InfernoDead-SpaceEAEA-Redwood-ShoresElectronic-ArtsGlen-SchofieldGodfather-IIRedwood-ShoresThu, 26 Feb 2009 17:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Squint! Yep, that's definitely Dante's Inferno]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/25/squint-yep-thats-definitely-dantes-inferno/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/25/squint-yep-thats-definitely-dantes-inferno/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/25/squint-yep-thats-definitely-dantes-inferno/#comments
Click to enter Hades the Inferno! Perhaps not divine, but we're seeing obvious comedy in these first Dante's Inferno assets, released today by EA. Of course, Redwood Shores no doubt wants us to take its adaptation of the 14th century Italian epic quite seriously, it being concerned with Hell and all. Still, we're not seeing these images as portraying anything other than another God of War -- a cross-wielding, Christian "God of War" (see what we mean after the break ... ). Not that the concept is a bad one, given it's being anointed by the very smooth hands of the Dead Space developers. Just don't expect us to sit here quietly, holding in our giggles.

Gallery: Dante's Inferno

Continue reading Squint! Yep, that's definitely Dante's Inferno

JoystiqSquint! Yep, that's definitely Dante's Inferno originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Feb 2009 12:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dantes-infernoeaea-redwood-shoresElectronic-ArtsMicrosoftXbox-360Wed, 25 Feb 2009 12:49:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Space started life on the original Xbox]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/12/dead-space-started-life-on-the-original-xbox/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/12/dead-space-started-life-on-the-original-xbox/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/12/dead-space-started-life-on-the-original-xbox/#commentsFiled under:

It seems that Dead Space has been around a lot longer than we'd have thought, originally taking form on the original Xbox. You can check out some early footage from the game in a video found after the break. There's not a whole lot to see really; it's very dark footage. What you can see looks very much like the Dead Space we know and love. Still, it's always interesting to see a game concept's humble beginnings. Plus, it might give us an indication as to what to expect from the Wii version.

[Via VG247]

Continue reading Dead Space started life on the original Xbox

JoystiqDead Space started life on the original Xbox originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Feb 2009 23:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-spaceEAEA-redwood-shoresElectronic-ArtsMicrosoftXboxXbox-360Thu, 12 Feb 2009 23:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Voice of Dom takes Pacino part in Godfather II]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/06/voice-of-dom-takes-pacino-part-in-godfather-ii/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/06/voice-of-dom-takes-pacino-part-in-godfather-ii/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/06/voice-of-dom-takes-pacino-part-in-godfather-ii/#commentsHey, we just got an email from our close personal friend Carlos Ferro -- oh, you know, the voice of Dom in the Gears of War series? He wanted to drop a line to let us know he'll be filling some very big shoes as Michael Corleone in the Godfather II game, which just got delayed to sometime between April and June of this year.

The role of Michael - as even film neophytes among you likely know - brought Al Pacino the first and third of his eight Academy Award nominations. But hey, no pressure, Carlos.

JoystiqVoice of Dom takes Pacino part in Godfather II originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Feb 2009 12:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carlos-ferroeaea-redwood-shoresElectronic-Artsgodfather-2voice-actorFri, 06 Feb 2009 12:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq's Top 10 of 2008: Dead Space]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/01/joystiqs-top-10-of-2008-dead-space/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/01/joystiqs-top-10-of-2008-dead-space/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/01/joystiqs-top-10-of-2008-dead-space/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Many of us found our hearts eviscerated by Electronic Arts' welcome, if financially maddening, newfound appreciation for original property. And while survival horror is hardly an unexplored genre, it's rare that any company, even a juggernaut like EA, gets everything right the first time. Dead Space nails it, and whether it's an eerie trek through the bowels of a derelict space ship, or surviving being cut to ribbons by aliens, cultists or former co-workers, staying alive has seldom felt as satisfying as it does aboard the USG Ishimura.

Continue reading Joystiq's Top 10 of 2008: Dead Space

JoystiqJoystiq's Top 10 of 2008: Dead Space originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 01 Jan 2009 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Best-of-2008Dead-SpaceEAEA-Redwood-ShoresElectronic-ArtsPCPS3Survival-HorrorXbox-360Thu, 01 Jan 2009 12:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq hands-on: The Godfather II multiplayer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/19/joystiq-hands-on-the-godfather-ii-multiplayer/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/19/joystiq-hands-on-the-godfather-ii-multiplayer/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/19/joystiq-hands-on-the-godfather-ii-multiplayer/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

click to enlarge
Back when we got our first look at The Godfather II's strategy-infused single player campaign, we wondered how its developers at EA Redwood Shores would translate that experience into the realm of multiplayer. As it turns out, there's strategy involved in the game's 16-player online matches - just of a different (and more familiar) sort.

EARS (yeah, it doesn't like that acronym either) began development of the game's online component knowing that it wanted it to be influenced by single player, and vice-versa. So, for starters, you can't play multiplayer until you've recruited at least one soldier in single player. That character can then be used online, leveled up, and will retain his "upgrades" in the single-player game.

Gallery: The Godfather II multiplayer

Continue reading Joystiq hands-on: The Godfather II multiplayer

JoystiqJoystiq hands-on: The Godfather II multiplayer originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Dec 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-redwood-shoresElectronic-Artsgreg-rizzerhands-onjoystiqfeaturesPCPS3the-godfatherthe-godfather-2Xbox-360Fri, 19 Dec 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Space devs cooking up Dante's Inferno]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/15/dead-space-devs-cooking-up-dantes-inferno/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/15/dead-space-devs-cooking-up-dantes-inferno/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/15/dead-space-devs-cooking-up-dantes-inferno/#commentsFiled under:


Electronic Arts may be planning fewer titles next year, but that won't stop EA Redwood Shores from sending players straight to hell. The Dead Space developers have officially announced their next hellish project, dubbed Dante's Inferno.

Little is known about the upcoming third-person action title, other than it will be based upon Dante Alighieri's The Divine Comedy. Jonathan Knight, executive producer on Dante's Inferno, simply notes that "the time is right" to adapt the 14th Century literary work into a game, though with Universal tapped to twist the game into a movie, clearly the time is also right to make lots of money. A teaser site and embedded video have also been released, and after playing through Dead Space it seems that we might soon abandon all hope of sleeping through the night.

JoystiqDead Space devs cooking up Dante's Inferno originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 15 Dec 2008 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dantes-infernodead-spaceeaea-redwood-shoreselectronic-artsjs-twitterMon, 15 Dec 2008 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Space Demo dismembers XBLM]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/25/dead-space-demo-dismembers-xblm/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/25/dead-space-demo-dismembers-xblm/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/25/dead-space-demo-dismembers-xblm/#commentsFiled under: , ,


We realize that many of our readers have long since forgotten Halloween -- its memory having been replaced by slavering thoughts of turkey -- but that doesn't mean we have to forget about survival horror. In an effort to remind us -- and perhaps to push a few more copies out the door -- EA has released a demo for Dead Space onto the Xbox Live Marketplace (sorry, Gold members only, for now). The demo is vaguely referred to as a "Dismemberment Demo" and, frankly, we haven't the foggiest idea what that's about. And hey, check this out, thanks to the new online Marketplace at Xbox.com, we can do this:

Click here to add the Dead Space demo to your 360 download queue!

JoystiqDead Space Demo dismembers XBLM originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 25 Nov 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-spaceeaea-redwood-shoresearselectronic-artslive-marketplacemarketplacexblmxbox-live-marketplaceTue, 25 Nov 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Space DLC uses stasis on your wallet]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/13/dead-space-dlc-uses-stasis-on-your-wallet/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/13/dead-space-dlc-uses-stasis-on-your-wallet/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/13/dead-space-dlc-uses-stasis-on-your-wallet/#commentsFiled under: ,


Hey kids, just a quick reminder that a metric ton of DLC for Dead Space has been released to the Xbox Live Marketplace today. What kind of DLC you ask? Well, if some random skins and special suits and upgraded weapons suit your fancy, you're in luck. Actually, let us take that back. You're in luck if you like all those things and you'd like to pay for them. Some of the items are merely skins, while others will net you firearms with extra speed or power or fully upgraded suits. There's also a brand new gun up for download as well.

Technically, we suppose these aren't merely downloadable cheats, but they're pretty close. Find a full list of the new content after the break.

Continue reading Dead Space DLC uses stasis on your wallet

JoystiqDead Space DLC uses stasis on your wallet originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 Nov 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-spaceeaea-redwood-shoresearselectronic-artsThu, 13 Nov 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[And the Dead Space Costume Contest winner is ...]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/27/and-the-dead-space-costume-contest-winner-is/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/27/and-the-dead-space-costume-contest-winner-is/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/27/and-the-dead-space-costume-contest-winner-is/#commentsFiled under: , ,

costume
click to embiggen
Sam Warman! Congratulations to Mr. Warman who won the votes of our esteemed judges panel with his costume's "surprisingly good detail" -- "that's a lot of stuff!" observed one of the judges on his scoring card. Also, Sam's last name is "War-man," which is totally rad.*

Feel free to dispute our choice (to no avail) by selecting your picks from the submissions gallery below. Thanks to everyone who participated!

*Legal disclaimer: Winner's last name was not a factor in actual judging.

Gallery: Dead Space Costume Contest

JoystiqAnd the Dead Space Costume Contest winner is ... originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 27 Oct 2008 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-spaceeaea-redwood-shoresElectronic-Artsjoyswagjs-twitterPS3Xbox-360Mon, 27 Oct 2008 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 Fanboy review: Dead Space]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/27/ps3-fanboy-review-dead-space/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/27/ps3-fanboy-review-dead-space/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/27/ps3-fanboy-review-dead-space/#commentsFiled under:


Dead Space is a survival horror title developed by EA's internal Redwood Shores studio, a new IP from a studio with (and I say this with no malice intended) a mediocre pedigree. The odds were stacked against Dead Space being a good game. Instead, it emerges as one of this year's must-have gaming experiences.

From the moment Dead Space begins, you're thrust into a highly stylized and great-looking game. The opening cutscene sees you, Isaac Clarke, and your team respond to a distress call from mining vessel USG Ishimura. As the Ishimura comes into view, the light from a nearby sun bounces off it. The use of color is stunning. This is the first of Dead Space's "wow" moments.

From the get go, my graphical expectations of the game were raised -- and Dead Space doesn't disappoint. The texture work is excellent, lending to the creepy atmosphere with blood stains and wall scribbles. "Cut off their limbs" and "evacuate this area immediately" appear to be scrawled in blood. The Ishimura is well realized thanks to this level of detail. For example, every door has an LCD ticker above it, telling you the next room's name. Character models look good and move well, with impressive animation throughout.

Gallery: Dead Space

Continue reading PS3 Fanboy review: Dead Space

JoystiqPS3 Fanboy review: Dead Space originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 27 Oct 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-spaceEAea-redwood-shoresIshimurajoystiqfeaturesreviewMon, 27 Oct 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[24 hours to submit your Dead Space costume!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/23/24-hours-to-submit-your-dead-space-costume/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/23/24-hours-to-submit-your-dead-space-costume/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/23/24-hours-to-submit-your-dead-space-costume/#commentsFiled under: , ,

dead space
Rome wasn't built in a day, sure, but we're not challenging you to build one of the founding cities of Western Civilization. No, just a headless costume. Are you up to it? Winner takes all ... that stuff* pictured above! Head over to the contest post for full details.

*Choice of Dead Space game on PlayStation 3 or Xbox 360.

Joystiq24 hours to submit your Dead Space costume! originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Oct 2008 16:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-spaceeaea-redwood-shoresElectronic-ArtsjoyswagPS3Xbox-360Thu, 23 Oct 2008 16:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Reminder: Design your Dead Space costumes!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/17/reminder-design-your-dead-space-costumes/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/17/reminder-design-your-dead-space-costumes/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/17/reminder-design-your-dead-space-costumes/#commentsFiled under: , ,

dead space
What better way to curb your spending during these uncertain times than to win free stuff? No, we're not just handing it out, but if you can show us evidence of your homegrown American work ethic (or deep Canadian resolve), then you, dear generic Joe Six-pack / the Plumber / hockey mom, will have earned yourself a tax break, er, mucho Dead Space loot. Head over to the contest post for full details!

JoystiqReminder: Design your Dead Space costumes! originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 Oct 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-spaceeaea-redwood-shoresElectronic-ArtsjoyswagPS3Xbox-360Fri, 17 Oct 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Design a Dead Space costume, get a head!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/14/design-a-dead-space-costume-get-a-head/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/14/design-a-dead-space-costume-get-a-head/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/14/design-a-dead-space-costume-get-a-head/#commentsFiled under: , ,

dead space
Final Update: And the Dead Space Costume Contest winner is ...

Update: That's it folks! The entry period is over. Thanks for participating!

They say in space, no one can hear you scream. Luckily, here on earth, they'll hear you loud and clear if you win this cache of Dead Space goodies. But this is no ordinary Joyswag giveaway, folks. Oh no, you're gonna have to work for this one. You're finally being called upon to put those hard-earned hours in front of Project Runway to the test!

Here's the deal: You design the winning costume, send us a JPEG, and we'll give you the head. In this case, 1 of only 8 fully modeled, handmade Dead Space helmets created for EA (embiggened view). You'll also receive the Dead Space game (PlayStation 3 or Xbox 360 version -- your choice) plus game guide, Downfall (the animated prequel), the graphic novel, and art book (with 3-D glasses!). (Approximate value of prize is $600.) So bust out the scissors, sewing machine, gorilla glue, severed limbs, duct tape, and whatever else you can scrounge up ... and remember, take some risks! (Read: We don't want a thousand pictures of you all wrapped in tin foil.) Have fun!

Update: To answer some of your questions, yes, the costume can be totally original (or based on the game's design) -- either way, it should complement the helmet. It's like Voltron: you form the body, we form the head. So, the costume must be fully realized (not a drawing, painting, proposal in comments, etc.). Consider your Halloween dilemma solved!

Continue reading Design a Dead Space costume, get a head!

JoystiqDesign a Dead Space costume, get a head! originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Oct 2008 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cosplaydead-spaceeaea-redwood-shoresElectronic-ArtshalloweenjoyswagPS3Xbox-360Tue, 14 Oct 2008 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq hands-on: The beginning of Dead Space (PS3)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/08/joystiq-hands-on-the-beginning-of-dead-space-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/08/joystiq-hands-on-the-beginning-of-dead-space-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/08/joystiq-hands-on-the-beginning-of-dead-space-ps3/#commentsFiled under: ,


click to embiggen

As one of the most anticipated titles of the year, Dead Space is enjoying quite the moment in the sun. Releasing next week for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 and later in the month on PC, we had a chance to go hands on with a near-final build of the PlayStation 3 version at the Sony Holiday event in Toronto, Canada. Having experienced the game with a plethora of weapons and abilities at PAX in Seattle, how does the game compare to the beginning where resources are limited? Jump in for our analysis.

Gallery: Dead Space

Continue reading Joystiq hands-on: The beginning of Dead Space (PS3)

JoystiqJoystiq hands-on: The beginning of Dead Space (PS3) originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Oct 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-spaceeaea-redwood-shoresearsElectronic-Artshands-onjoystiqfeaturesPS3Wed, 08 Oct 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Space scores 91% in first review]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/02/dead-space-scores-91-in-first-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/02/dead-space-scores-91-in-first-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/02/dead-space-scores-91-in-first-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Buhbuhbuh it's EA, Joystiq! Though we'll save our most obnoxious we-told-you-sos for the more comprehensive metareview ... we did tell you so. Our E3 Game of Show has scooped up its first (and hopefully not last) set of review accolades, scoring 91% in the pages of Xbox World 360. The review reportedly suggests that EA could teach Capcom "a thing or three about survival horror," with Dead Space boasting ferocious foes that make others in the genre seem "decidedly average."

Oh, but there is one thing that worries us: the game's "film-worthy" script. Have they not been to the cinema recently? With rare exception, a poorly formatted paragraph describing a pair of voluptious breasts ramping a Porsche over an explosion would have to be dumbed down by a script doctor. Too arty.

[Via X3F and Twitter, which apparently works in outer space]

JoystiqDead Space scores 91% in first review originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Oct 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Dead-Spacedining-on-crow-if-the-other-reviews-are-badEAEA-Redwood-ShoresEARSElectronic-ArtsPCPS3ReviewsXbox-360Thu, 02 Oct 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Space dev to be re-branded, develop more titles]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/30/dead-space-dev-to-be-re-branded-develop-more-titles/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/30/dead-space-dev-to-be-re-branded-develop-more-titles/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/30/dead-space-dev-to-be-re-branded-develop-more-titles/#commentsFiled under: ,


Quick question hotshot. Who is currently developing Dead Space? Electronic Arts isn't the right answer, they're publishing it. To those who know (or have returned from Wikipedia) congratulations if you said EA Redwood Shores. EARS, as they are affectionately known around the office, has continuously impressed industry professionals, horror masters and gamers alike and EA has seen fit to give them a proper name, reports Variety.

Glenn Schofield, the head-honcho of EARS, revealed EA's plan to rename the studio is part of an over-arching plan to pitch the developer to gamers and potential employees as one of "creativity, originality, and high quality third person action adventure titles". What does that mean exactly? Well, after the inevitable Dead Space sequel the team may become EA's go-to studio for all things third-person action. Take that EA Montreal and your buggy Army of Two!

[via Joystiq]

JoystiqDead Space dev to be re-branded, develop more titles originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 30 Sep 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-spaceea-redwood-shoresearselectronic-artsTue, 30 Sep 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Space team to get a new name, make more games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/30/dead-space-team-to-get-a-new-name-make-more-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/30/dead-space-team-to-get-a-new-name-make-more-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/30/dead-space-team-to-get-a-new-name-make-more-games/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

With all of the excitement surrounding its forthcoming horror title, the Dead Space team must be quite happy to be known as ... the Dead Space team. That is, until it wants to make something else. That's probably one of the reasons for, as Variety reports, the EARS (EA Redwood Shores) team being "re-branded" as something niftier-sounding in the near future (EYES?).

EARS (yep, that has got to go) studio head, Glenn Schofield, says that the name change is part of an over-arching plan to pitch the team to gamers and new hires as one of "creativity, originality, and high quality third person action adventure titles" (our emphasis). So, while it may create another all-new IP after the probable inevitable Dead Space 2, it certainly sounds like the studio has decided on its most favoritest genre, henceforth to be known as the "3PAA" ... at least by us.

JoystiqDead Space team to get a new name, make more games originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 30 Sep 2008 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-spaceeaea-redwood-shoresearselectronic-artsPCPS3Xbox-360Tue, 30 Sep 2008 18:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Space banned in Japan, Germany, and China]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/10/dead-space-banned-in-japan-germany-and-china/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/10/dead-space-banned-in-japan-germany-and-china/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/10/dead-space-banned-in-japan-germany-and-china/#commentsFiled under: ,


We were contacted by EA late last week about the recent expedition of the Dead Space release date and, somehow, we failed to notice that the email also confirmed that Dead Space has been banned in Japan, German, and China. According to the email, "Dead Space was banned from being sold (yes outright banned, this time I'm correct) in Japan, Germany, and China!" So, there you have it kids, it's not a rumor at all (though that matter is apparently in dispute). The email makes no mention of the reason for the ban, though we imagine it has something to do with the amount of gore and violence present in Dead Space. X3F has contacted EA to find out if the company will make changes to the game in order to sell it in the aforementioned regions.

JoystiqDead Space banned in Japan, Germany, and China originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Sep 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-spaceeaea-redwoodea-redwood-shoreselectronic-artsWed, 10 Sep 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Space Zero-G dev diary is disorienting]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/09/dead-space-zero-g-dev-diary-is-disorienting/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/09/dead-space-zero-g-dev-diary-is-disorienting/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/09/dead-space-zero-g-dev-diary-is-disorienting/#commentsFiled under: ,

In the latest Dead Space developer diary, the developers at EA talk about the implementation of zero gravity environments. According to the video, "at least 20%" of Dead Space takes place in zero gravity. In zero gravity players use magnetic boots that allow Isaac, the game's protagonist, to stick to different surfaces. Players can also launch themselves to -- and subsequently walk on -- other surfaces in a room.

The developers mention that part of the game's challenge is becoming reoriented to your surroundings in zero gravity. As "the floor maybe become the ceiling, and the ceiling the floor," players need to reorient themselves quickly in order to deal with enemies. One last thing: in complete vacuums (where sound does not travel) players will only be able to hear the sounds of Isaac's breathing and heartbeat. Creepy.

JoystiqDead Space Zero-G dev diary is disorienting originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Sep 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-spaceeaea-redwood-shoreselectronic-artsTue, 09 Sep 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Space engine being primed as middleware tool]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/09/dead-space-engine-being-primed-as-middleware-tool/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/09/dead-space-engine-being-primed-as-middleware-tool/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/09/dead-space-engine-being-primed-as-middleware-tool/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The development team working on Dead Space is hoping its engine becomes a new middleware tool in the vein of Unreal Engine and id Tech. Speaking with Gameplayer, Executive Producer Glen Schofield said the company is in the process of working with lawyers to figure out the legalese for officially naming the engine, which was originally used for The Godfather and From Russia with Love.

It's unclear if the intention is to use the engine in-house for EA or market it to other developers for licensing, although according to the article Schofield cited the success of Unreal Engine 3 and how other studios have contributed to its success by adding more technology. Dead Space's engine, which we'd suggest be called simply "Dead Engine," is currently being used for Godfather 2. Dead Space will try to administer a dose of the heebie jeebies (to most places) on October 14.

JoystiqDead Space engine being primed as middleware tool originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Sep 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-enginedead-spaceeaea-redwoodea-redwood-shoreselectronic-artsengineglen-schofieldmiddlwarePCPS3Tue, 09 Sep 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Space NA release bumped up to Oct. 14]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/04/dead-space-release-bumped-up-to-oct-14/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/04/dead-space-release-bumped-up-to-oct-14/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/04/dead-space-release-bumped-up-to-oct-14/#commentsFiled under: , ,


At this rate, Dead Space will be coming out tomorrow. Clearly taking note of the immense terror and confusion imparted by its decision to release Dead Space earlier than expected, EA has announced that the outer space corridor creeper has been moved forward a week ... again! That's like, the opposite of a delay.

You can now catch the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 versions in North American stores on October 14th (PC guys are still on for the 20th). That is, if you're confident enough to leave the house, knowing that the world has become a very sick and unusual place.

JoystiqDead Space NA release bumped up to Oct. 14 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Sep 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BreakingNewsDead-SpaceEAEA-Redwood-ShoresEARSEEKElectronic-ArtsPS3Survival-HorrorXbox-360Thu, 04 Sep 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Godfather 2 detailed -- less GTA; more RPG, RTS, board game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/07/godfather-2-detailed-less-gta-more-rpg-rts-board-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/07/godfather-2-detailed-less-gta-more-rpg-rts-board-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/07/godfather-2-detailed-less-gta-more-rpg-rts-board-game/#commentsFiled under: ,


Xbox World 360 magazine brings forth details of EA's forthcoming Godfather 2 game - helpfully extracted by sister-publication CVG - describing the sequel as "Scarface meets Total War." To further contextualize that pairing, the game is dropping some of that GTA-clone vibe in favor of the far less popular "sandbox game with RPG, RTS and erm, board game elements"-vibe.

If the game isn't content straddling just one game type, why should locales be any different? Following the plot of its cinematic namesake, Godfather 2 jet-sets from Miami to Havana to New York City. Want more numbers? The game packs six character classes - "bruiser, demolitions expert, arsonist, medic, safe cracker and engineer" - and each character can have one of twelve different "personalities." Here's some simple back-of-the-box math for y'all: six character classes times twelve personalities equals an amazing 72 playable characters (except not really).

Other features include "Don's View" (that's where the RTS magic comes in) and a perks system (thanks, board games!). No word on multiplayer, but EA's just getting this hype machine started before the game's ought-nine release. Give 'em time.

JoystiqGodfather 2 detailed -- less GTA; more RPG, RTS, board game originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Aug 2008 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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