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[Battlefield: BC, Mass Effect, Army of Two sequel sales all top 1 million; Dante's Inferno comes close in Q1 2010]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/11/battlefield-bc-mass-effect-army-of-two-sequel-sales-all-top-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/11/battlefield-bc-mass-effect-army-of-two-sequel-sales-all-top-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/11/battlefield-bc-mass-effect-army-of-two-sequel-sales-all-top-1/#comments Electronic Arts' high-profile sequels helped the publisher fight its way to some positive cash flow in the final quarter of an otherwise traumatic fiscal year. Overall, Battlefield: Bad Company 2 led the charge with over three million units sold in the quarter across Europe and North America, with five million units sold to date.

Mass Effect 2 didn't do too shabby, selling 1.6 million units during the quarter in North America and Europe, while Army of Two: The 40th Day sold "over one million units worldwide in the quarter." It wasn't all sequel talk for the core titles,as Dante's Inferno got a mention too, having sold "almost one million units in the quarter" across Europe and North America. Oh, Dante, don't cry! It ain't easy for a new franchise in this world -- just ask EA's new IPs from last fiscal year.

JoystiqBattlefield: BC, Mass Effect, Army of Two sequel sales all top 1 million; Dante's Inferno comes close in Q1 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 May 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>army-of-twoArmy-of-Two-2Army-of-Two-The-40th-Daybad-company-2battlefield-bad-company-2dantes-infernoeaEA-Montrealelectronic artsElectronic-ArtsElectronicArtsmass-effect-2MicrosoftXbox-360Tue, 11 May 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Left 4 Dead 2's new 'Scavenge' multiplayer mode revealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/08/valve-unveils-left-4-dead-2s-new-scavenge-multiplayer-mode/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/08/valve-unveils-left-4-dead-2s-new-scavenge-multiplayer-mode/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/08/valve-unveils-left-4-dead-2s-new-scavenge-multiplayer-mode/#comments
click to Boomer-size Valve took the wraps off Left 4 Dead 2's brand-new competitive multiplayer game type, "Scavenge," at a press event in San Francisco this evening. According to the developer, this mode is built purely for "quick, more frantic gameplay." (Yes, L4D actually can be more frantic).

Scavenge has the four survivor characters scrambling to collect gas cans from various spots in a confined location -- in this case a motel, pictured -- in order to fuel up a generator before a two-minute timer expires. There are 16 cans total and 20 seconds are added to the clock for each one that's successfully retrieved.

Four other players, controlling Special Infected, must do their best to stop the cans from reaching the goal. The two new Special Infected, Spitters and Jockeys, really excel in this mode. The former can set dropped cans on fire, while the latter can leap onto the shoulders of a survivor, "steering" them away from their goal.

These best two-out-of-three matches are broken up into three rounds, during the "half time" of which players switch sides. Valve confirmed that each of L4D2's campaigns has a unique Scavenge map, for a total of six shipping with the game on November 17.

Gallery: Left 4 Dead 2 - Scavenge Multiplayer Mode

JoystiqLeft 4 Dead 2's new 'Scavenge' multiplayer mode revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Oct 2009 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-partnerselectronic artsElectronic-ArtsElectronicArtsleft-4-deadleft-4-dead-2MicrosoftvalveXbox-360Thu, 08 Oct 2009 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Burnout Paradise teases 'Cops and Robbers' ]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/15/burnout-paradise-teases-cops-and-robbers/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/15/burnout-paradise-teases-cops-and-robbers/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/15/burnout-paradise-teases-cops-and-robbers/#comments
We're not exactly sure what they stole, but judging by the teaser trailer for Burnout Paradise's looming Cops and Robbers mode, criminals will have their jobs cut out for them outrunning the Paradise City fuzz.

As a latest move to "change the way people think about and experience" the chaotic racer, much of Cops and Robbers' details remain behind bars, including the premium DLC's as-yet-unannounced release date. Still, if nothing else, this early look shows that Paradise City's police force is more than equipped to keep pace with lead foots on the wrong side of the law.

Continue reading Burnout Paradise teases 'Cops and Robbers'

JoystiqBurnout Paradise teases 'Cops and Robbers' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Apr 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>burnoutburnout-paradiseburnoutparadisecopscops-and-robberscriterioncriterion-gamesdlceaelectronic-artselectronicartsMicrosoftXbox-360Wed, 15 Apr 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EA: Red Alert 3 looks best on PS3, thanks to delay]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/ea-red-alert-3-looks-best-on-ps3-thanks-to-delay/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/ea-red-alert-3-looks-best-on-ps3-thanks-to-delay/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/ea-red-alert-3-looks-best-on-ps3-thanks-to-delay/#comments
Since changing its tune about "skipping" a PS3 release of Command & Conquer: Red Alert 3, citing the platform's "exotic and tough" development climes, EA Los Angeles actually says its time learning the ins-and-outs of the architecture has been for the best.

Speaking to 1UP, producer -- and former games journo -- Greg Kasavin claims the PS3 version (the "Ultimate Edition") is the best-looking of the bunch, sporting better water effects and more detailed units. In addition, the "general color palette" is somehow improved. As we've previously reported, the PS3 release of Red Alert 3 is launching with free DLC maps and includes a whole bunch'a bonus material (making-of clips, bloopers and other vignettes).

The moral of this story: Developers can make PS3 perform some neat tricks if they just take the time to get to know it. Sometimes simply over a cup of coffee; other times while tackling one of those team-building obstacle courses together.

JoystiqEA: Red Alert 3 looks best on PS3, thanks to delay originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Mar 2009 19:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>command-and-conquercommand-and-conquer-red-alert-3eaea-los-angeleselectronic artsElectronic-ArtsElectronicArtsred-alert-3red-alert-3-ultimate-editionFri, 06 Mar 2009 19:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq hands-on: Need for Speed SHIFT]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/04/joystiq-hands-on-need-for-speed-shift/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/04/joystiq-hands-on-need-for-speed-shift/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/04/joystiq-hands-on-need-for-speed-shift/#comments
click to shift to a higher resolution
Like a mountain road just begging to be driven, the Need for Speed franchise has had its highs and lows since its 1994 debut on 3DO. It seemed poised to leap straight off the map following last year's lackluster Undercover; there were even rumors the series was being handed over to the Burnout Paradise team for CPR.

Then up popped not one, but three new NFS games. Need for Speed SHIFT is front-most on the starting grid for a pack that includes a free online PC title, Need for Speed World Online, and the Wii-exclusive Need for Speed: Nitro.
We recently got our hands on SHIFT, a racer that's got the makings to potentially rival the likes of Codemaster's GRID.

Gallery: Need for Speed SHIFT


Continue reading Joystiq hands-on: Need for Speed SHIFT

JoystiqJoystiq hands-on: Need for Speed SHIFT originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Mar 2009 15:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic artsElectronic-ArtsElectronicArtshands-onMicrosoftneed-for-speed-shiftneed-for-sppedslightly-mad-studiosXbox-360Wed, 04 Mar 2009 15:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlefield Heroes beta rolling back into action]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/23/battlefield-heroes-beta-rolling-back-into-action/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/23/battlefield-heroes-beta-rolling-back-into-action/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/23/battlefield-heroes-beta-rolling-back-into-action/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Things have been quiet on Battlefield Heroes' front lines since Electronic Arts first called for a ceasefire last November, halting the game's release and sending scores of pastel-colored grunts back to their bunks. Now EA has reopened beta sign-ups, giving the boys in green another chance to enlist.

Still, it's unknown how many players will be admitted into the beta, and greenhorns eager to taste the free-to-play shooter's cartoon action could be left in their barracks. Seasoned vets, however, will get first dibs, and do not need to get back in line, as any players who were already in the beta or had previously signed up will automatically receive an invite to report for duty. As for when soldiers can expect the call to action, EA is saying only to watch for more announcements in the "coming weeks."

[Via Massively]

JoystiqBattlefield Heroes beta rolling back into action originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 Jan 2009 03:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-heroesbattlefieldheroesbetaclosed-betaeaelectronic-artselectronicartsPCFri, 23 Jan 2009 03:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wild speculation: Disney to buy EA in 2009]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/08/wild-speculation-disney-to-buy-ea-in-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/08/wild-speculation-disney-to-buy-ea-in-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/08/wild-speculation-disney-to-buy-ea-in-2009/#commentsFiled under:


Electronic Arts' dwindling stock could soon be trading in Disney Dollars. Just as the Wall Street Journal advised back in November, a new Variety report suggests that Disney may be interested in purchasing EA in 2009 in order to "jumpstart itself to a lead position" in the video game market. It's a small world after all.

While like EA, Disney stock has recently taken a trip south, the report speculates that such a move would help spur revenue growth at the animation giant in the face of waning DVD purchases and slow-to-start Blu-ray and digital download sales. Of course, the cash flow from EA-themed stuffed animals, snowglobes and keychains hocked at the Disney Store couldn't hurt either.

JoystiqWild speculation: Disney to buy EA in 2009 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Jan 2009 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>disneyeaelectronic-artselectronicartstakeoverwalt-disneywaltdisneyThu, 08 Jan 2009 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Analyst: Mirror's Edge, NFS, RB2 sales to spur more EA layoffs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/08/analyst-mirrors-edge-nfs-rb2-sales-to-spur-more-ea-layoffs/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/08/analyst-mirrors-edge-nfs-rb2-sales-to-spur-more-ea-layoffs/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/08/analyst-mirrors-edge-nfs-rb2-sales-to-spur-more-ea-layoffs/#commentsFiled under:


There could be fewer gifts passed around at Electronic Arts' annual Christmas party as analyst Colin Sebastian anticipates the company may let go more employees in the wake of sluggish sales. While EA eliminated nearly 6% of its workforce last October, the Lazard Capital Markets soothsayer predicts that underperforming titles, including Rock Band 2, Need for Speed Undercover and Mirror's Edge, could likely lead to the company to make even deeper cuts.

EA's bottom line was able to keep from being totally dismembered, however, thanks to what the analyst calls "solid sales" of Dead Space, Left 4 Dead and FIFA 09. Even so, Sebastian lowered his third quarter outlook for the publishing powerhouse from $2.14 to $2.07 billion, leaving Scrooge McDuck with plenty to count over the holidays should Disney come knocking.

JoystiqAnalyst: Mirror's Edge, NFS, RB2 sales to spur more EA layoffs originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Dec 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analystdead-spaceeaelectronic-artselectronicartsfifa-09layoffsleft-4-deadmirrors-edgeneed-for-speed-undercoverrock-band-2Mon, 08 Dec 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Skate 2 to grind North American retail shelves January 21]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/25/skate-2-to-grind-north-american-retail-shelves-january-21/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/25/skate-2-to-grind-north-american-retail-shelves-january-21/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/25/skate-2-to-grind-north-american-retail-shelves-january-21/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Just as your head begins to clear from downing your seventh pitcher of holiday eggnog, Electronic Arts announced plans to push off and catch a mad vert when Skate 2 nails its retail landing in January. The sequel will do a frontside 360 in North America on January 21, while skateboarders elsewhere will be able to get their trick on two days later on January 23.

Next month EA will also launch a Skate 2 web application, creatively titled "Graphics Creator," which will let players create customized graphics for their in-game decks and clothing. Additionally, would-be shredders in North America who pre-order Skate 2 will grab a code to unlock a "Throwback Pack" that will allow access to retro accessories, gestures and clothing. When you bail from a botched nosegrind, at least you'll look good in your Skate or Die shirt.

JoystiqSkate 2 to grind North American retail shelves January 21 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]]>eaEA-Black-Boxelectronic-artselectronicartsMicrosoftPS3skateskate-2skate-or-dieSportsXbox-360Tue, 25 Nov 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Industry execs foresee bright holiday despite dim economy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/14/industry-execs-foresee-bright-holiday-despite-dim-economy/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/14/industry-execs-foresee-bright-holiday-despite-dim-economy/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/14/industry-execs-foresee-bright-holiday-despite-dim-economy/#commentsFiled under: ,


Oh economy, quit being such a wet blanket. You don't see video game publishers crying as they dip into their retirement accounts, do you? No sir. At least not according to Reuters, which reports the industry expects strong game sales through the remainder of this year and into 2009 in spite of the frowny faces on Wall Street.

Industry execs painted a mostly rosy outlook during yesterday's BMO Capital financial conference in New York. Overall, Microsoft exec Mindy Mount stated that she feels the game industry will "hold up a lot better than other industries," while Take Two's Strauss Zelnick admitted that such prosperity will likely only come to those companies with big titles under the tree.

Some, such as EA's Peter Moore, came away speaking words of "cautious optimism" in the face of the economic uncertainty, sentiment echoed by Nintendo's always vocal Reggie Fils-Aime. Though like a motion sensitive King Midas with a gold-encrusted stylus in one hand and a bag of money in the other, he told Reuters that while "cautiously optimistic is quite appropriate" overall, from Nintendo's ivory tower, the view is "very optimistic."

JoystiqIndustry execs foresee bright holiday despite dim economy originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 Nov 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaeconomyelectronic-artselectronicartsholidaymicrosoftmoneynintendotake-twotaketwoFri, 14 Nov 2008 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlefield Heroes beta in ceasefire until early '09]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/13/battlefield-heroes-beta-in-ceasefire-until-early-09/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/13/battlefield-heroes-beta-in-ceasefire-until-early-09/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/13/battlefield-heroes-beta-in-ceasefire-until-early-09/#commentsFiled under: ,


Get back behind the sandbags, soldier! No, not those, they're far too realistic. These, more cartoony bags are much better suited to protect your rounded corners and chiseled jaw while waiting for Electronic Arts to decide when Battlefield Heroes will roll onto the front lines. EA once more postponed the official release of its free-to-play shooter, while the closed beta will soon go dark until sometime next year.

James Salt, senior producer on Battlefield Heroes, broke the news on the game's website, writing that the beta will close down Friday night at 6pm CET so the team can focus on "polishing the backend." In the meantime, we expect many brokenhearted, animated grenadiers to keep polishing their oversized rifles until early 2009.

[Via Big Download]

JoystiqBattlefield Heroes beta in ceasefire until early '09 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 Nov 2008 14:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefieldbattlefield-heroesbattlefieldheroesbetaclosed-betadelayeaelectronic-artselectronicartsPCThu, 13 Nov 2008 14:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Tiger Woods 09 experiments in mobile-to-console gameplay]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/09/tiger-woods-09-experiments-in-mobile-to-console-gameplay/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/09/tiger-woods-09-experiments-in-mobile-to-console-gameplay/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/09/tiger-woods-09-experiments-in-mobile-to-console-gameplay/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

For players who wrestle with the virtual greens, Electronic Arts has announced a way to better your game while on the go. The newly launched mobile version of Tiger Woods PGA Tour 09 includes a feature called Console Boost, which (as you might have guessed from the all-too-descriptive title) gives Xbox 360 and PS3 players a stat hike in EA's annual trip to the links.

Explains EA Mobile exec Adam Sussman, Console Boost "enables players to improve the skill level of their console character" by storing their mobile triumphs to their online EA account. Depending on the skill level completed in the mobile version, players will see their home version's stats likewise improved, hopefully ensuring a little more time on the fairway and a little less time fishing balls out of water hazards.

JoystiqTiger Woods 09 experiments in mobile-to-console gameplay originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 09 Nov 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>console-boosteaelectronic-artselectronicartsmobilePS3tiger-woodstiger-woods-09tiger-woods-pga-tour-09tigerwoodsXbox-360Sun, 09 Nov 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EA's Board of Directors breathes in Oxygen founder]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/07/eas-board-of-directors-breathes-in-oxygen-founder/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/07/eas-board-of-directors-breathes-in-oxygen-founder/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/07/eas-board-of-directors-breathes-in-oxygen-founder/#commentsFiled under: ,

Geraldine Laybourne, the founder of women's cable television channel Oxygen, has joined the Board of Directors at Electronic Arts. Prior to creating television programs that pander to the fairer sex, Laybourne also worked for Nickelodeon, where she was instrumental in launching the station's window into the past that is Nick at Night.

While it's pure guesswork as to whether this move was more driven by Laybourne's business savvy or EA's continued interest in putting games in front of women, families and tweens, we imagine that both played a vital role in getting the TV exec to hop on board.

JoystiqEA's Board of Directors breathes in Oxygen founder originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 07 Nov 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualeaelectronic-artselectronicartsGeraldine-LaybourneGeraldineLaybournenickelodeonoxygenwomenFri, 07 Nov 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WSJ to Disney: Buy EA]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/04/wsj-to-disney-buy-ea/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/04/wsj-to-disney-buy-ea/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/04/wsj-to-disney-buy-ea/#commentsFiled under: ,

We're accustomed to seeing Electronic Arts purchase studios at the drop of a money hat, but not so much the other way around. Don't tell that to the Wall Street Journal, however, as the financial site suggests that Walt Disney (the company, not the frozen corpse) should add EA to its animated empire. With EA shares dipping more than 17 percent last week -- not to mention the sluggish economy overall -- the WSJ claims that "Disney would be gutsy to step up during the current economic uncertainty," adding however that "it might be better than waiting for better times and paying top dollar."

Of course, EA has yet to give any indication that it plans to step up on the auction block any time soon, though we can't help but wonder how it would feel about another media giant trying to step in and do it a favor.

[Via Edge Online]

JoystiqWSJ to Disney: Buy EA originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>disneyeaelectronic-artselectronicartstakeoverwalt-disneywaltdisneyTue, 04 Nov 2008 15:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Two 'hardcore' b-ball franchises on the outs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/23/two-hardcore-b-ball-franchises-on-the-outs/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/23/two-hardcore-b-ball-franchises-on-the-outs/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/23/two-hardcore-b-ball-franchises-on-the-outs/#commentsFiled under: ,

Electronic Arts and Midway have shelved their competing arcade-style basketball franchises, as ESPN reports that both NBA Street and NBA Ballers have been benched.

Regarding NBA Street, EA Sports boss Peter Moore explains to ESPN that the division is reevaluating its mixture of licensed and original IP, adding that "we need to develop some new things." But don't go expecting anything particularly edgy to come out of this moment of clarity. "If Wii Sports has taught us anything," adds Moore, "it's that people will sit there and play big head tennis all day long. We need to be able to tap into that audience."

As for Midway, the company likely counts Ballers among the underperforming projects Interim CEO Matt Booty recently vowed to keep at arm's length. According to ESPN, the financially strapped publisher is currently digging under cushions in the office couch in order to "buy its way out of the licensing deal" it has with the NBA.

[Thanks, Sean]

JoystiqTwo 'hardcore' b-ball franchises on the outs originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Oct 2008 13:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electronic-artselectronicartsmidwaynba-ballersnba-streetThu, 23 Oct 2008 13:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Cops and Robbers race online in NFS Undercover ]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/08/cops-and-robbers-race-online-in-nfs-undercover/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/08/cops-and-robbers-race-online-in-nfs-undercover/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/08/cops-and-robbers-race-online-in-nfs-undercover/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Jiggers, fellas! It's the cops! Need for Speed Undercover, EA's latest attempt at pulling its arcade racing stable out of a seemingly never-ending tailspin, will allow players on both sides of the law to size each other up in a new multiplayer mode called Cops and Robbers.

According to EA, the new mode will allow two teams of up to four players each to compete against each other to deliver -- or prevent the delivery of -- a package to a safe house. Additionally, the Xbox 360, PS3 and PC versions will support up to eight players in sprint and circuit multiplayer races as well. Of course, it remains to be seen if Undercover will do enough to remind us why we once cared about this franchise, or if, as our recent impressions found, it will just feel like Most Wanted with a new coat of paint.

JoystiqCops and Robbers race online in NFS Undercover originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Oct 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic-artselectronicartsneed-for-speedneed-for-speed-undercoverPCPS3Xbox-360Wed, 08 Oct 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rod Humble promoted to The Sims label lead]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/07/rod-humble-promoted-to-the-sims-label-lead/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/07/rod-humble-promoted-to-the-sims-label-lead/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/07/rod-humble-promoted-to-the-sims-label-lead/#commentsFiled under: , ,

When we last spoke to The Sims' studio head, Rod Humble, he was applauding the franchise's retail success. Now the exec has another, albeit more personal reason to celebrate, having climbed up another rung on the corporate ladder, laying claim to the role of The Sims' brand's executive VP. The move follows the recent hiring of Jeff Green, who left the world of game journalism last month to throw his body on the gears of EA's expansion factory as well.

Humble replaces former lead, Nancy Smith, who EA notes will handle "special" The Sims-related projects before eventually moving into a new as-yet-undefined role in the months ahead. We offer congratulations, and suggest he celebrate his new position by locking co-workers in the bathroom or pushing them in the corporate pool before deftly removing any means of escape.

JoystiqRod Humble promoted to The Sims label lead originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 Oct 2008 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic-artselectronicartsrod-humblerodhumblesimsthe-simsthesimsTue, 07 Oct 2008 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EA, Take-Two take buyout talks behind closed doors]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/ea-take-two-take-buyout-talks-behind-closed-doors/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/ea-take-two-take-buyout-talks-behind-closed-doors/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/ea-take-two-take-buyout-talks-behind-closed-doors/#commentsFiled under:


The ongoing drama of who's eating who between mega publishers Electronic Arts and Take-Two has finally been taken behind the curtain, where it should have been all along. After coming to some measure of understanding, the companies have jointly signed a confidentiality agreement, agreeing not to blab about what may or may not happen as a result of ongoing talks until, you know, something actually happens.

According to Reuters, EA has agreed as part of a regulatory filing with the SEC to not "make any further announcements regarding the status of any discussions or negotiations with Take-Two" until the pair come to some sort of mutual accord. We couldn't be happier, knowing that while the drama will likely continue to unfold for quite some time, at least we won't have to read (or write!) about it.

JoystiqEA, Take-Two take buyout talks behind closed doors originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Aug 2008 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buyouteaelectronic-artselectronicartssecsecuritiesandexchangecommissiontake-overtake-twotakeovertaketwoTue, 26 Aug 2008 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Need for Speed Undercover hits pavement in November]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/15/need-for-speed-undercover-hits-pavement-in-november/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/15/need-for-speed-undercover-hits-pavement-in-november/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/15/need-for-speed-undercover-hits-pavement-in-november/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,


Developer Black Box's nitro button must be worn down to a nub. The studio announced today that its upcoming Need for Speed sequel, Undercover, will ship this November, pulling up to the starting line well before the 2009 release previously mentioned by EA CEO John Riccitiello.

In development for every platform under the sun (yes, even mobile phones), Need for Speed Undercover will also sport what Black Box describes as "big-budget live-action sequences" starring Balls of Fury and Mission Impossible III actress, Maggie Q, as a federal agent who recruits drivers to take down a criminal syndicate. While recent Need for Speed racers have all but siphoned our tanks of what enthusiasm we once had for the series, those who care can look forward to race with Ms. Q in North America on November 18 and in Europe on November 21.

JoystiqNeed for Speed Undercover hits pavement in November originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Aug 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>black-boxblackboxDSeaelectronic-artselectronicartsmaggie-qmaggieqMobileneed-for-speedneed-for-speed-undercoverneedforspeedPCPS2PS3PSPWiiXbox-360Fri, 15 Aug 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EA dates Godfather 2 for February 2009]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/08/ea-dates-godfather-2-for-february-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/08/ea-dates-godfather-2-for-february-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/08/ea-dates-godfather-2-for-february-2009/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


EA has opened the briefcase on Godfather 2, revealing that the sequel you can't refuse will ship for the Xbox 360, PS3 and PC in February 2009.

EA also shed a bit more detail on the previously revealed "Don's View," which promises to kiss the gameplay with a touch of strategy. Here you'll build up, expand, and defend crime rings against rival families by hand picking "Made Men," and sending them out onto the streets to do your bidding. Godfather 2 will also include the previous game's BlackHand control scheme, promising "more visceral hand-to-hand brutality" this time around. As the old saying goes, if you want something done right, do it yourself.

JoystiqEA dates Godfather 2 for February 2009 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Aug 2008 08:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectonic-artsElectronic-Artselectronicartsgodfathergodfather-2paramountPCPS3Xbox-360Fri, 08 Aug 2008 08:05:00 EST<![CDATA[British model Gemma Atkinson to suit up for Red Alert 3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/06/british-model-gemma-atkinson-to-suit-up-for-red-alert-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/06/british-model-gemma-atkinson-to-suit-up-for-red-alert-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/06/british-model-gemma-atkinson-to-suit-up-for-red-alert-3/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


When PS3 owners are left out of EA's Red Alert 3, they won't just be left wanting for the game's exotically tough real-time strategy. They'll also miss out on the video game acting debut of English actress/model/singer Gemma Atkinson, who will exchange her flimsy lingerie for something a little more formal as Allied communications officer Lt. Eva McKenna.

EA's PR machine tells us that Atkinson is best recognized for her work on the British soap Hollyoaks, as well as one of the region's most recognized models, though to be fair we're just going to have to take their word for it. The company also notes that she'll be on hand at the UK's M Festival gaming event this Friday, just make sure that when she talks you look into her eyes, and not upon her huge ... tracts of land.

JoystiqBritish model Gemma Atkinson to suit up for Red Alert 3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Aug 2008 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic-artselectronicartsgemma-atkinsonPCred-alertred-alert-3Xbox-360Wed, 06 Aug 2008 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Edge: Nintendo tops industry's best publishers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/30/edge-nintendo-tops-industrys-best-publishers/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/30/edge-nintendo-tops-industrys-best-publishers/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/30/edge-nintendo-tops-industrys-best-publishers/#commentsFiled under:

The online edition of UK gaming magazine Edge, formerly Next Gen, has come forward with what the proprietors feel exemplifies the top 20 game publishers the industry has to offer. Based on what we're sure represents a complicated formula of revenue, momentum, catalog, and review scores, the magazine found Nintendo to be the absolute crème of the crop, though we imagine it'll be difficult to make out the company's acceptance speech from beneath all that money.

Other notables include Actilizzard and EA, which took home the silver and bronze medals, respectively, while Midway managed to break out of Arkham Asylum just in time to claim the list's 20th -- and final -- spot.

JoystiqEdge: Nintendo tops industry's best publishers originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 Jul 2008 21:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionactivision-blizzardawardseaedgeelectronic-artselectronicartsmidwaynintendopublisherWed, 30 Jul 2008 21:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Peter Moore calls E3 'soulless,' calls for public event]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/26/peter-moore-calls-e3-soulless-calls-for-public-event/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/26/peter-moore-calls-e3-soulless-calls-for-public-event/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/26/peter-moore-calls-e3-soulless-calls-for-public-event/#commentsFiled under: ,


His face may be broken, but EA's Peter Moore likes to speak his mind, and what's on his mind lately is last week's E3, a gathering that he thinks can be fixed by opening it up to the public. Whoa, maybe all of that ink has gone to his brain, or has he already forgotten the madhouse that the annual used to be, when everyone and their brother seemed to find a way to roam the show's halls? Plus, isn't that what E for All is for, anyway?

Calling the event "soulless and lacking an epicenter," the former Microsoft exec suggests that organizers "invite the community" to the show, adding that given enough planning, letting gamers experience E3 first hand will help companies create better games and forge new ideas. Of course, it would likely be too crowded for any of the attending press to get any work done, but that's beside the point. Right, Pete?

JoystiqPeter Moore calls E3 'soulless,' calls for public event originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 26 Jul 2008 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e-for-allE3e32008eaea-sportseasportseforallelectronic-artselectronicartspeter-mooreSat, 26 Jul 2008 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E308: EA releases old screens and new screens]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/e308-ea-releases-old-screens-and-new-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/e308-ea-releases-old-screens-and-new-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/e308-ea-releases-old-screens-and-new-screens/#commentsFiled under:

Ah, E3 ... a time for news, announcements, and, if you're Electronic Arts, old screenshots for DS games. How disappointed were we to discover nothing new for such games as MySims Kingdom. After all, our home counterpart got lots of new media. We feel so left out.

But the good news is, we've got some new Skate It images, as well as screens from Zubo and the Littlest Pet Shop. Talk about something for everyone!

Skate It


Zubo


Littlest Pet Shop

JoystiqE308: EA releases old screens and new screens originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Jul 2008 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2008e308eaelectronic artsElectronicArtslittlest-pet-shopmysims-kingdomskate-itzuboTue, 15 Jul 2008 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Rock Band adding seven countries to ticket in July]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/14/rock-band-adding-seven-countries-to-ticket-in-july/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/14/rock-band-adding-seven-countries-to-ticket-in-july/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/14/rock-band-adding-seven-countries-to-ticket-in-july/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


No longer will Belgium virtual rockers have to settle for playing air guitar to dreams of living room stardom, as Harmonix and MTV have announced plans to bring Rock Band to Belgians, as well as those in six other countries later this month, including Italy, Sweden, Spain, Switzerland, Netherlands, and Luxembourg.

According to the duo, the Xbox 360 version of Rock Band will be the lead SKU in these territories, shipping on July 24, with other fake instrument flavors arriving sometime later in the fall. As with the existing European release, the disc will include all 58 tracks found on the North American version as well as nine non-English tunes such as Die Toten Hosen's Hier Kommt Alex, Oasis' Rock 'n' roll star, and Playmo's New Wave. We welcome our new friends to the stage -- may you never fail out and your fingers never cramp.

JoystiqRock Band adding seven countries to ticket in July originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Jul 2008 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>E3-2008EAelectronic-artselectronicartseuropeharmonixMTVmusicPS3rock-bandrockbandWiiXbox-360Mon, 14 Jul 2008 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EA reveals SimAnimals for DS, Wii]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/14/ea-reveals-simanimals-for-ds-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/14/ea-reveals-simanimals-for-ds-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/14/ea-reveals-simanimals-for-ds-wii/#commentsFiled under: , ,

While everyone was distracted by EA's ongoing press conference, EA went and uploaded a bunch or screenshots and some basic information about a bunch of games, including a new one called SimAnimals for the DS. According to EA's Web page, the game lets players "control more than 60 animals" with an "on-screen animated hand that allows you to reach out and touch, pick up and move everything in the game from foxes and bears to trees and flowers." Animals will grow to like or dislike this disembodied, manual overlord based on how it treats them. Remind you of any other popular simulation game? Look for SimAnimals in January of 2009, and more about the project as we hear it.

Update: An official press release includes a few more details and some enthusiastic quotes from EA execs. Fun!

Gallery: SimAnimals (Wii)



Gallery: SimAnimals DS

JoystiqEA reveals SimAnimals for DS, Wii originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Jul 2008 18:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingnewsDSe3-2008EAelectronic artselectronic-artsElectronicArtssimSimAnimalsSimsWiiMon, 14 Jul 2008 18:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavenly Sword writer to script Mirror's Edge]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/heavenly-sword-writer-to-script-mirrors-edge/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/heavenly-sword-writer-to-script-mirrors-edge/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/heavenly-sword-writer-to-script-mirrors-edge/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

As we nurse a queezy stomach from playing EA DICE's Parkour-inspired Mirror's Edge, we'll be doing so to a story penned by writer and story designer Rhianna Pratchett, who's known for her work on titles such as Triumph Studios' Overlord and Ninja Theory's Heavenly Sword.

The story centers on free runner Faith as she jumps, climbs, and tumbles her way to uncovering the truth behind who framed her sister for murder. Notes Pratchett, "Faith is skilled, but she's certainly not a superhero. She has her flaws, like all of us. In short: she's real. That's her appeal." Mirror's Edge remains one of the more interesting original titles in EA's 2008 salvo, and is expected to leave us feeling vertigo when it ships for the Xbox 360, PS3, and PC this winter.

Gallery: Mirror's Edge (7/10/08)

JoystiqHeavenly Sword writer to script Mirror's Edge originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Jul 2008 08:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BreakingNewseaea-diceeadiceelectronic-artselectronicartsmirrors-edgeparkourPCPS3rhiannapratchettwriterwritingXbox-360Thu, 10 Jul 2008 08:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince and the debut trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/06/harry-potter-and-the-half-blood-prince-and-the-debut-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/06/harry-potter-and-the-half-blood-prince-and-the-debut-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/06/harry-potter-and-the-half-blood-prince-and-the-debut-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,


We would love to get excited for the upcoming video game adaptation of the sixth installment in J.K. Rowling's wildly successful series of books -- unfortunately, our ambitions of striding through Hogwarts' hallowed halls have been sullied by previous lackluster Harry Potter titles from Electronic Arts. To make sure Half Blood Prince is as faithful and entertaining as it can possibly be, we've written up a quick cheat sheet for the game's developers to inform them which elements from the source material should be included when the game hits store shelves in November.
  • Epic wizard duels -- Awesome.
  • Magical puzzles -- Entertaining.
  • Exciting quidditch matches -- Compelling, if handled properly.
  • Collecting "Bertie Bott's Every Flavor Beans", "Chocolate Frogs", "Fizzing Whizbees", or any other form of magical confection -- About as enjoyable as catching a faceful of Avada Kedavra.

JoystiqHarry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince and the debut trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 06 Jul 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSeaElectronic-Artselectronicartsharry-potterharry-potter-and-the-half-blood-princejk-rowlingMacPCPS2PS3PSPwarnerbroswbWiiXbox-360Sun, 06 Jul 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Peter Moore explains EA Sports' PC snub]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/04/peter-moore-explains-ea-sports-pc-snub/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/04/peter-moore-explains-ea-sports-pc-snub/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/04/peter-moore-explains-ea-sports-pc-snub/#commentsFiled under: ,


PC sports gamers are somewhat justifiably unhappy with Peter Moore right now. Earlier this year, the EA Sports executive announced that Madden and many other EA Sports games won't be coming to the PC market this year. But wait, you didn't give him a chance to explain! Well, actually, you did, and he did, but today Moore went into more detail about his division's scaled back PC support. A summary of the reasoning behind the decision:
  • PC sports gamers are gravitating to consoles.
  • The PC sports gaming market is gravitating to a downloadable model rather than a "packaged" model.
  • The PC versions of EA Sports games aren't getting a good enough return on investment.
  • You PC gamers just pirate everything anyway and we're not going to make a PC version just so millions of you can just steal it! (We may have exaggerated the tone a little bit on this one, but you get the idea).
PC Sports fans can still hold out hope that EA Sports will change its mind, though. Moore hinted that the company might be coming back into the PC space next year with "new, innovative, maybe even less-expensive ways to play all of our franchises on the PC." If there's one thing sports fans should be familiar with, it's squeezing that one, slim ray of hope for all it's worth.


JoystiqPeter Moore explains EA Sports' PC snub originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Jul 2008 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>09EA sportsea-sportsEaSportselectronic artselectronic-artsElectronicArtsmaddenmoorePCpeter-mooreFri, 04 Jul 2008 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EA announces girl-friendly Boogie SuperStar for Wii]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/26/ea-announces-girl-friendly-boogie-superstar-for-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/26/ea-announces-girl-friendly-boogie-superstar-for-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/26/ea-announces-girl-friendly-boogie-superstar-for-wii/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Electronic Arts has slipped on a pair of bootie shorts and shaked its groove thang all the way back to the well, announcing Boogie SuperStar exclusively for the Wii. A follow up to last year's family-friendly rhythm game, Boogie, the game is the latest to be counted among EA's casual brand, and is being targeted specifically at girls - though how exactly the game will favor the fairer sex remains to be seen.

Once again being developed by EA Montreal, information about the game was first leaked last month, at that time indicating that Boogie SuperStar would have players dancing on the Wii Balance Board, though EA's official announcement makes note of no such functionality. What we do know is that Boogie SuperStar will allow up to four gals to keep rhythm, customize characters, and cut rugs using the Wii remote, all while being judged by the game on their road to win it big in the game's 'Boogie Star Show.' The sequel will also feature more than 40 different licensed tracks from groups and singers such as Maroon 5, Britney Spears, and Kanye West, though EA bills the music as being 'made popular by' these artists, so cheap imitations will likely be the order of the day when Boogie SuperStar ships in both North America and Europe this October.

JoystiqEA announces girl-friendly Boogie SuperStar for Wii originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Jun 2008 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boogieboogie-superstarboogiesuperstardancingeaea-montrealeamontrealelectronic-artselectronicartsgirlsWiiThu, 26 Jun 2008 09:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Spider-Man: Web of Shadows combat preview looks astonishing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/22/spider-man-web-of-shadows-combat-preview-looks-astonishing/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/22/spider-man-web-of-shadows-combat-preview-looks-astonishing/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/22/spider-man-web-of-shadows-combat-preview-looks-astonishing/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


We've had a love/hate relationship with past iterations of titles featuring our friendly neighborhood Spider-Man, though one aspect of every title that we felt was never quite right was the manner in which the beloved web-slinger placed the beatdown upon unsuspecting thugs. Sure, certain games have had entertaining, intuitive combat systems, but none truly captured the way the arachnid protagonist whips up on baddies as he does on ink and paper.

However, a recently released video from Shaba Games, developer of the upcoming Spider-Man: Web of Shadows, has boosted our spirits significantly, displaying the kind of aerial acrobatics and swift brawling we've always hoped to see in a Spidey title. Now, as long as they can avoid any glaring graphical issues or frequent cutscenes showing Peter Parker bawling his eyes out, Web of Shadows could be one of the better adaptations of the Spider-Man comics to ever hit the market.

JoystiqSpider-Man: Web of Shadows combat preview looks astonishing originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 22 Jun 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>combatDSeaElectronic-ArtselectronicartsmarvelPCPS2PS3PSPshaba-gamesspider-manspider-man-web-of-shadowstrailertreyarchweb-of-shadowsWiiXbox-360Sun, 22 Jun 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Lord of the Rings: Conquest debut trailer depicts battles, oliphant violence]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/21/lord-of-the-rings-conquest-debut-trailer-depicts-battles-oliph/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/21/lord-of-the-rings-conquest-debut-trailer-depicts-battles-oliph/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/21/lord-of-the-rings-conquest-debut-trailer-depicts-battles-oliph/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Pandemic just released the first trailer for their Star Wars: Battlefront-esque take on Tolkien's beloved fantasy world, Lord of the Rings: Conquest, and despite a few framerate issues, we're as pleased as Miruvor-flavored punch. Though past titles have tried to capture the grand scale of Middle Earth's climactic battles through various methods of interactivity, we've never really felt the exhilaration associated with cutting through swathes of Orcborn adversaries with our trusty Andúril. The familiar Battlefront gameplay formula looks to be just what the doctor ordered -- though PETA might have a few unkind words to say about the Proboscidean homocide apparently featured in the title.

JoystiqLord of the Rings: Conquest debut trailer depicts battles, oliphant violence originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 21 Jun 2008 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefrontconquestDSeaElectronic-Artselectronicartslord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-conquestlotrmiddle-earthpandemicPCPS3star-wars-battlefronttolkienXbox-360Sat, 21 Jun 2008 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EA: Online to make up around 60% of Asian business in 5 years]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/18/ea-online-to-be-around-60-of-asian-business-in-five-years/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/18/ea-online-to-be-around-60-of-asian-business-in-five-years/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/18/ea-online-to-be-around-60-of-asian-business-in-five-years/#commentsFiled under: ,

After showing considerable interest in conquering Asia, Electronic Arts has been noticeably mum of late regarding its plans for the region, lurking like a rogue in the shadows, as if waiting to club the market on the back of the head with a fat bag of cash. Now EA has admitted as much, with EA Asia's vice president Chris Thompson telling Reuters that the company looks for the region to comprise some 15 to 20 percent of its total business by 2012. Compare this to the meager 5 percent of EA's wallet it's responsible for today.

Key to this expected growth is the Asian market's love affair with playing games online. According to Thompson, while online gaming represents a respectable 10-15 percent of the company's Asian footprint today, "five years from now, that the online portion of our business could be representing somewhere plus or minus around 60 pct of our business." Mama always said if you're gonna set a goal, make it lofty, though with Hellgate: London finding some rare success in Korea and Warhammer Online waiting in the wings, maybe there's method to EA's infatuation with Asia after all.

JoystiqEA: Online to make up around 60% of Asian business in 5 years originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 Jun 2008 09:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asiaeaelectronic-artselectronicartsonlineWed, 18 Jun 2008 09:50:00 EST<![CDATA[FaceBreaker to pummel retail shelves September 5]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/18/facebreaker-to-pummel-retail-shelves-this-september/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/18/facebreaker-to-pummel-retail-shelves-this-september/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/18/facebreaker-to-pummel-retail-shelves-this-september/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Living room pugilists can finally circle a date on their calender, provided they can hold a pen while wearing gloves, as GameSpot reports that Electronic Arts plans to ship its arcadey boxing title FaceBreaker for the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and Wii on September 5.

As the first title to emerge from EA's newly launched Freestyle brand, the game promises over-the-top ringside heroics. FaceBreaker is a game that continues to remain on our radar as one of our more anticipated games at next month's E3, though honestly we're conflicted if this has more to do with the title's tooned-out gameplay or simply the opportunity to uppercut Peter Moore.

JoystiqFaceBreaker to pummel retail shelves September 5 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 Jun 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boxingeaelectronic-artselectronicartsfacebreakerfreestylePS3WiiXbox-360Wed, 18 Jun 2008 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EA announces Hasbro Family Game Night for Wii, PS2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/16/ea-announces-hasbro-family-game-night-for-wii-ps2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/16/ea-announces-hasbro-family-game-night-for-wii-ps2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/16/ea-announces-hasbro-family-game-night-for-wii-ps2/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Electronic Arts has finally revealed the fruits of its recent partnership with board game evangelist Hasbro, announcing Hasbro Family Game Night, a collection of classic board games for the Wii and PlayStation 2. Shipping this fall, the game will include a wide assortment of Hasbro properties -- six in all -- from Battleship, Yahtzee, Boggle, and Connect Four to Sorry! and its more recent incarnation in Sorry! Sliders.

Purists will be happy to know that they'll be able to play the classic games as they remember, though EA notes that new versions will also be included as well for those looking for a different way to play. In addition, the collection will let players build and decorate a virtual game room, earn trophies, and play various mini-games once they tire of sinking each other's battleships. However, even with support for between two and four players, we doubt the compilation will have us tossing out our boxed favorites just yet, though at least with this game we know we'll never have to go searching though couch cushions for missing pieces before we can play.

JoystiqEA announces Hasbro Family Game Night for Wii, PS2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 May 2008 09:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battleshipboard-gamesboardgamesboggleconnect-fourconnectfoureaelectronic-artselectronicartshasbroHasbro-Family-Game-NightPS2sorryWiiyahtzeeFri, 16 May 2008 09:50:00 EST<![CDATA[EA details MySims Kingdom for Wii, DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/ea-details-mysims-kingdom-for-wii-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/ea-details-mysims-kingdom-for-wii-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/ea-details-mysims-kingdom-for-wii-ds/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

While we'll admit that The Sims was never more than a stone's throw away from being an all-out casual series anyway, EA will continue to dress the franchise in casual attire in MySims Kingdom, the sequel to last year's 3 million unit selling MySims. Shipping this fall worldwide for the Wii and DS, the game was first announced earlier this year as one of a handful of new dumbed down casual-themed takes on The Sims. However, EA today released the first details about the game, calling MySims Kingdom "a story of adventure, discovery and exploration to help King Roland and his subjects revitalize the Kingdom."

The gameplay, which once again sounds more than a little like Animal Crossing, will center on exploring and developing a kingdom through The Sims-style customization, with the DS version adding emphasis on mini-games as players try to turn aside a rival evil king. Adds The Sims studio head Rod Humble, MySims Kingdom will include "rewarding quests, building houses, bridges or even making contraptions powered by electricity or water." The game eschews much of the larger franchise's sandbox appeal for backstory, leaving us waiting for until next year's The Sims 3 before we can know the joy of deleting the ladder from the neighborhood pool.

JoystiqEA details MySims Kingdom for Wii, DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 May 2008 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSeaelectronic-artselectronicartsmysimsmysims-kingdommysimskingdomsimsthesimsWiiWed, 14 May 2008 09:45:00 EST<![CDATA[BioWare drops 10-day validation from Mass Effect PC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/10/bioware-drops-10-day-valdiation-from-mass-effect-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/10/bioware-drops-10-day-valdiation-from-mass-effect-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/10/bioware-drops-10-day-valdiation-from-mass-effect-pc/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


After stirring up a hornets' nest of gamer contempt last week by announcing that the forthcoming PC flavor of Mass Effect would require re-validation every 10 days, BioWare community manager Jay Watamaniuk has come forward as the voice of reason on the game's official forums, stating that the developer has now removed the "feature" from the game.

Instead of employing the previously revealed DRM madness, Watamaniuk explained that Mass Effect will include just a one time online authentication, allowing players to play the game once validated without the disc in the drive at all. That said, if any new content is downloaded, the game will again have to bite the disc to make sure it's real. The caveat to all of this, however, is that each Mass Effect purchase will only be able to be installed a maximum of three times, news that has again incited us to pick up our torches and pitchforks and join the mob outside.

JoystiqBioWare drops 10-day validation from Mass Effect PC originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 10 May 2008 09:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowaredrmeaelectronic-artselectronicartsmasseffectPCsecuromSat, 10 May 2008 09:25:00 EST<![CDATA[EA, Criterion bringing Burnout Paradise to PCs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/09/ea-criterion-bringing-burnout-paradise-to-pcs/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/09/ea-criterion-bringing-burnout-paradise-to-pcs/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/09/ea-criterion-bringing-burnout-paradise-to-pcs/#commentsFiled under: ,


Console sandbox racer Burnout Paradise will soon be careening into oncoming traffic for PC, as developer Criterion announced this morning that it is rebuilding the title "specifically" to be played on a computer.

As the the first Burnout title to make the leap to the kingdom of the keyboard and mouse, Criterion is keeping mum on exactly what about Burnout Paradise is being tweaked in the move, stating only that the version will include "expanded multiplayer, enhanced online features, and community driven content." More information is expected to be announced later this morning as part of a live webcast on the Criterion Games website, so look for more PC-centric street carnage soon.

JoystiqEA, Criterion bringing Burnout Paradise to PCs originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 May 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>burnoutburnout-paradiseburnoutparadisecriterioncriterion-gameselectronic-artselectronicartsPCportFri, 09 May 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Burnout Paradise getting motorcycles, night driving this August]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/23/burnout-paradise-getting-motorcycles-night-driving-this-august/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/23/burnout-paradise-getting-motorcycles-night-driving-this-august/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/23/burnout-paradise-getting-motorcycles-night-driving-this-august/#commentsFiled under: , ,


The Burnout franchise, visceral as it is, has always shied away from real carnage by removing the human element altogether, what with cars driving and mangling each other as if channeling Herbie. That looks to be changing, however, with Criterion announcing a planned update to the game this August codenamed "Davis" that will introduce motorcycles -- complete with human drivers -- to the crash-centric streets of Paradise City.

According to the developer, the bikes will get their own modes and challenges, as well as new locations designed to suit their two-wheeled shenanigans, though we hope against hope for the ragdoll hilarity that would be the game's Showtime mode for those riding a bike. In addition, the update will also see the sun setting on Paradise City for the first time with night time racing, no doubt increasing the number of head-on collisions as motorcycle enthusiasts skid along the pavement at record distances.

[Via PS3 Fanboy]

JoystiqBurnout Paradise getting motorcycles, night driving this August originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Apr 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>burnoutcriterioneaelectronic-artselectronicartsmotorcyclesnightPS3showtimeXbox-360Wed, 23 Apr 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Burnout Paradise for PS3 getting custom soundtracks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/22/burnout-paradise-for-ps3-getting-custom-sountracks/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/22/burnout-paradise-for-ps3-getting-custom-sountracks/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/22/burnout-paradise-for-ps3-getting-custom-sountracks/#commentsFiled under: , ,


On top of the previously announced three new online modes to be introduced in Burnout Paradise's so-called "Cagney" software update, developer Criterion has revealed that the forthcoming download will also level the pavement between the open-world racer's two console versions, finally bringing custom soundtracks to Burnout Paradise for the PS3.

After the update, PS3 owners will be able to get at their own music using the game's Easy Drive in-game menu, allowing them to cycle through their own collection of tunes while trying to avoid careening into oncoming traffic. Even better, this update, welcome as it is, is just one of several Criterion has planned this year, ensuring many repeat visits to the junk yard in the months ahead.

JoystiqBurnout Paradise for PS3 getting custom soundtracks originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 Apr 2008 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>burnoutburnout-paradiseburnoutparadisecriterioncustomeaelectronic-artselectronicartsPS3racingsoundtrackTue, 22 Apr 2008 03:00:00 EST