Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Anarchy Reigns US/EU release date pushed once again, this time to 'TBC']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/anarchy-reigns-us-eu-release-date-pushed-once-again-this-time-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/anarchy-reigns-us-eu-release-date-pushed-once-again-this-time-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/anarchy-reigns-us-eu-release-date-pushed-once-again-this-time-t/#comments ImagePlatinum Games told fans on its latest podcast episode that upcoming brawler Anarchy Reigns no longer has a US/EU release date. According to Platinum, "Sega has decided to change the date to TBC [to be confirmed]." A note clarified the situation further: "While our work on the game is finished, localized, and ready to go, as publisher, Sega gets to make the final decision as to when it is released."

For its part, Sega hasn't announced the delay or even acknowledged it as far as we can tell. Given that the game is still planned for a July 5 launch in Japan, and Platinum's statement suggests the game is "finished, localized, and ready to go," we expect to hear an updated launch date for US/EU territories pretty soon. The game already got pushed out seven months, though, so you never know.

JoystiqAnarchy Reigns US/EU release date pushed once again, this time to 'TBC' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 May 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anarchy-reignsdelaydelayseuropemicrosoftnorth-americaplaystationps3release-datexboxFri, 25 May 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Starhawk online pass grants free Warhawk download in Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/starhawk-online-pass-grants-free-warhawk-download-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/starhawk-online-pass-grants-free-warhawk-download-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/starhawk-online-pass-grants-free-warhawk-download-in-europe/#comments There's a good chance a lot of Starhawk players haven't experienced the game that started it all, let alone for free. Every new copy of Starhawk comes bundled with a free copy of Warhawk (PSOne) in Europe.

It's part of the online pass voucher, which is visible on the back of the instruction booklet for Starhawk. Once you input the code and unlock online functionality, the original Warhawk will be added to your download list. Here in The States, however, you need to grab one of the first-run "limited editions" available exclusively at GameStop.

JoystiqStarhawk online pass grants free Warhawk download in Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 May 2012 23:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europelightboxlightbox-interactiveplaystationps3psonepsone-classicsstarhawkwarhawkWed, 09 May 2012 23:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Vita's MGS HD Collection listed with June 12 launch in America, 'late June' in Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/vitas-mgs-hd-collection-listed-with-june-12-launch-in-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/vitas-mgs-hd-collection-listed-with-june-12-launch-in-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/vitas-mgs-hd-collection-listed-with-june-12-launch-in-america/#comments ImageMetal Gear Solid HD Collection for Vita has a launch window of "late June" for European markets, Eurogamer reports. This coincides nicely with the North American release date of June 12 listed on GameStop and Amazon.

Metal Gear Solid HD does not include PSP's Peace Walker, as the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 versions do.

JoystiqVita's MGS HD Collection listed with June 12 launch in America, 'late June' in Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europejunemetal-gear-solid-hd-collectionNorth-Americaplaystationplaystation-vitarelease-datevitaMon, 30 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[VVVVVV hits European eShop on May 10]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/28/vvvvvv-hits-european-eshop-on-may-10/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/28/vvvvvv-hits-european-eshop-on-may-10/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/28/vvvvvv-hits-european-eshop-on-may-10/#comments Terry Cavanagh's 2D excursion into the world of gravity control and chiptune excellence, VVVVVV, finally has a release date for its long-belated debut on the European eShop: May 10. The announcement comes to us via Twitter, where publisher Nicalis revealed that VVVVVV has passed Nintendo of Europe's certification process - implying immediately afterwards that the game will hit virtual store shelves on "MMMMMMay 10th."

VVVVVV's European eShop debut will take place a little over two years after the game's original release in January of 2010, and while that may sound like a long time, fake scientific studies have shown that it takes at least four and a half years to get the game's phenomenal soundtrack out of your head. So, comparatively, the delay isn't really all that bad.

JoystiqVVVVVV hits European eShop on May 10 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 28 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dseShopeuropeeuropean-release-dateNicalisnintendoterry-cavanaghvvvvvvSat, 28 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EA files trademark for 'SimOcean']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/28/ea-files-trademark-for-simocean/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/28/ea-files-trademark-for-simocean/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/28/ea-files-trademark-for-simocean/#comments ImageWhile that Atlantis management sim starring Aquaman - you know, our dream game - isn't likely to be made anytime soon, it seems EA is already laying claim to Sim-themed titles beyond 2013's "SimCity." A new trademark for something called SimOcean was filed earlier this week.

The filing was made in Europe and spotted by Siliconera, and beyond that we don't know much else. Maxis produced a slew of Sim offshoots over the years, including SimHealth, SimTower, SimFarm and many more. We'll have to add SimOcean to that list if it ever becomes more than a trademark.

JoystiqEA files trademark for 'SimOcean' originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 28 Apr 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-maxiselectronic-artseuropeglassboxglassbox-enginesimoceantrademarkSat, 28 Apr 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PixelJunk 4am beta now available to non-NA PS Plus subscribers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/pixeljunk-4am-beta-now-available-to-non-na-ps-plus-subscribers/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/pixeljunk-4am-beta-now-available-to-non-na-ps-plus-subscribers/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/pixeljunk-4am-beta-now-available-to-non-na-ps-plus-subscribers/#comments ImagePixelJunk 4am is live in early access beta in the United Arab Emirates, Great Britain, New Zealand, Australia, and Ireland with a trimmed-down version available exclusively for PS Plus members. The beta offers one song and one visualizer as a test for the full seven songs, six visualizers with 38 variations, 10 events and more than 190 sounds that hit with the game on May 15.

4am requires Move to play, but anyone with eyeballs or eardrums can enjoy it. Early access includes the Live Beta Viewer, which allows Plus members to stream other players' performances, including from Japan's DJ Baiyon, who will stream his playtime during the beta.

JoystiqPixelJunk 4am beta now available to non-NA PS Plus subscribers originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaeuropemovepixeljunk-4amplaystationps3Thu, 26 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Skullgirls comes to Euro PSN May 2, original soundtrack available online]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/skullgirls-comes-to-euro-psn-may-2-original-soundtrack-availabl/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/skullgirls-comes-to-euro-psn-may-2-original-soundtrack-availabl/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/skullgirls-comes-to-euro-psn-may-2-original-soundtrack-availabl/#comments The Skullgirls will take their eternal, beautifully animated brawl to Europe and Australia next week, with the PSN version due in PAL territories on May 2. The XBLA version hit Europe April 11.

If you want to listen to the game's soundtrack (featuring tracks by Castlevania's Michiru Yamane!) even when not in a pitched battle with a creepy nurse, it's now available from iTunes and CDBaby for $10. Publisher Autumn Games says it will be available on other digital music stores "in the coming days," if you have discriminating taste about where you like to procure your MP3s.

Continue reading Skullgirls comes to Euro PSN May 2, original soundtrack available online

JoystiqSkullgirls comes to Euro PSN May 2, original soundtrack available online originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Apr 2012 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europemicrosoftplaystationps3psnrelease-dateskullgirlssoundtrackxblaxboxWed, 25 Apr 2012 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Namco Bandai fuses NA and EU operations]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/namco-bandai-fuses-na-and-eu-operations/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/namco-bandai-fuses-na-and-eu-operations/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/namco-bandai-fuses-na-and-eu-operations/#comments Last week, Namco Bandai issued both North America and Europe-focused announcements, usually simultaneously, from an event in Las Vegas. That event is indicative of future operations, as the company is merging its North American and European operations, with former Bandai America CEO Mark Tsuji taking over as western CEO of all Namco Bandai.

"Over the last year we have been beginning our transformation of the overseas business, making sure that we are not only bringing East to West content but also sub-developing and bringing content from the West that can propagate to the East," Namco Bandai VP of marketing Carlson Choi told MCV. "In Japan for the fiscal year, Namco Bandai achieved 24 per cent market share. That shows impressive leadership. And we are asking: how do we transfer that leadership position across Europe and the States?"

Among the games shown off last week was just such a Western-originated game: Digital Extremes' Star Trek.

JoystiqNamco Bandai fuses NA and EU operations originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Apr 2012 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carlson-choieuropemark-tsujinamco-bandainamco-bandai-gamesMon, 23 Apr 2012 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Kingdom Hearts 3D closes the Dream Drop Distance in Europe July 20]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/kingdom-hearts-3d-closes-the-dream-drop-distance-in-europe-july/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/kingdom-hearts-3d-closes-the-dream-drop-distance-in-europe-july/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/kingdom-hearts-3d-closes-the-dream-drop-distance-in-europe-july/#comments ImageOne of the announcements from Europe's Nintendo Direct presentation this weekend was the release date for Kingdom Hearts 3D [Dream Drop Distance], whose punctuation we had to look up just now. Today, Square Enix issued its own announcement, which doesn't require watching a video.

The 3DS Disney/Square crossover game will arrive in PAL territories on July 20, ahead of the July 31 release date in North America. You'll all be keyblade masters, having earned the respect and high fives of King Mickey, by the time the game shows up domestically.

JoystiqKingdom Hearts 3D closes the Dream Drop Distance in Europe July 20 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Apr 2012 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dseuropekingdom-hearts-3dkingdom-hearts-3d-dream-drop-distancenintendoq3-2012Mon, 23 Apr 2012 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Gravity Rush demo falling to European Vitas on May 30]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/report-gravity-rush-demo-falling-to-european-vitas-on-may-30/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/report-gravity-rush-demo-falling-to-european-vitas-on-may-30/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/report-gravity-rush-demo-falling-to-european-vitas-on-may-30/#comments
You'll forgive us, but every little drip of information about when we can play Gravity Rush is positively thrilling. Knowing that the game doesn't arrive until late June (ugh), we were totally psyched to see UK retailer GAME reporting a demo arriving on PSN on May 30.

Yes, that does mean we'll likely see a demo here in North America as well, it's just a question of when. We've reached out to Sony to find out (as well as to confirm the EU demo date) and will update this post as soon as we hear more.

In the meantime, might we suggest rewatching the mesmerizing trailer for Gravity Rush just above? That's a pretty thrilling journey for a little apple!

JoystiqReport: Gravity Rush demo falling to European Vitas on May 30 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Apr 2012 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demoeuropegravitygravity-dazegravity-rushjapan-studioplaystationplaystation-vitasony-japan-studiovitaFri, 13 Apr 2012 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Hitman: Absolution gets a well-dressed 'Professional Edition' [update: EU and NA]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/hitman-absolution-gets-a-well-dressed-professional-edition-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/hitman-absolution-gets-a-well-dressed-professional-edition-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/hitman-absolution-gets-a-well-dressed-professional-edition-in/#comments ImageDon't get too excited - we thought the image above revealed some kind of replica gun in a cool briefcase as part of the Hitman: Absolution "Professional Edition," but it's actually bonus in-game DLC. Oh well, no toy guns for us! Said DLC, the "Agency Gun Pack," comprises a Jagd P22G pistol, a UMP SMG and an SPS 12 semi-automatic shotgun.

The Professional Edition, announced for Europe today, also includes an art book, a making-of DVD, and a fancy clamshell box. We're due to get some kind of special edition in North America as well, but details haven't been announced yet.

Update: the North American release will have the same "Professional Edition." In addition, Square Enix announced retail-exclusive bonuses for Amazon (the "Bartoli Custom Pistol"), Best Buy (the "Bronson 1928M SMG"), GameStop (the "Agency Kazo TRG" sniper rifle), and Walmart (the "Krugermeier 2-2 Pistol").

Gallery: Hitman: Absolution (Pre-Order Items)

JoystiqHitman: Absolution gets a well-dressed 'Professional Edition' [update: EU and NA] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Apr 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europehitman-5hitman-absolutionIO-Interactivemicrosoftpcplaystationprofessional-editionps3special-editionsquare-enixxboxWed, 11 Apr 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA['Pac-Man Smash' trademarked in Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/pac-man-smash-trademarked-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/pac-man-smash-trademarked-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/pac-man-smash-trademarked-in-europe/#comments ImageNamco Bandai filed a European trademark (number 010786341) for something called "Pac-Man Smash!" suggesting that, finally, Namco is making a spinoff game based on Pac-Man.

All right, maybe there's not enough information in the trademark listing to do much other than joke about the ubiquity of games starring Pac-Man, but the trademark does at least specify that it's for a video game (or card game, toy, or "gymnastic and sporting articles.)

The majority of Pac-Man-themed games end up on mobile or iOS these days (Pac-Man Arcade Golf, Pac-Man Kart Rally, Pac-Chain, etc.) so that's a likely destination for whatever this turns out to be. We're attempting to corner Namco now to ask about it, before the publisher can find a Power Pellet and turn on us.

Joystiq'Pac-Man Smash' trademarked in Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europenamco-bandaipac-manpac-man-smashtrademarkMon, 09 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pandora's Tower gets an English trailer from Nintendo of Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/pandoras-tower-gets-an-english-trailer-from-nintendo-of-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/pandoras-tower-gets-an-english-trailer-from-nintendo-of-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/pandoras-tower-gets-an-english-trailer-from-nintendo-of-europe/#comments
Don't get too excited -- there's still no North American release of Pandora's Tower to speak of. But in the meantime you can still enjoy this (kind of gross) English trailer for the Japanese export, coming out April 13 on the Wii in Europe.

JoystiqPandora's Tower gets an English trailer from Nintendo of Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Mar 2012 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>englisheuropenintendonorth-americapandoras-towertrailerwiiWed, 28 Mar 2012 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PEGI: Dragon's Lair coming to XBLA]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/19/pegi-dragons-lair-coming-to-xbla/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/19/pegi-dragons-lair-coming-to-xbla/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/19/pegi-dragons-lair-coming-to-xbla/#comments Sure, you can buy Dragon's Lair for many, many (many) platforms, but Xbox 360 is not one of them. Unless you count buying a DVD version and playing it through the Xbox's DVD player. That embarrassing omission is now being corrected: a PEGI rating has been spotted for an XBLA version of the FMV game. We're shocked ... that it took this long for Dragon's Lair to end up on Xbox.

Being a rating and not an official announcement, there's no actual release date associated with this newly discovered XBLA release. We're checking in with Digital Leisure, who will probably tell us about a couple more upcoming ports of Dragon's Lair in the process of answering.

JoystiqPEGI: Dragon's Lair coming to XBLA originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Mar 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dragons-laireuropemicrosoftpegixblaxboxMon, 19 Mar 2012 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Canabalt makes the jump to PlayStation Minis]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/17/canabalt-makes-the-jump-to-playstation-minis/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/17/canabalt-makes-the-jump-to-playstation-minis/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/17/canabalt-makes-the-jump-to-playstation-minis/#comments Canabalt, the deceptively addictive single-button platformer from Adam Saltsman, is available for PS3, Vita and PSP as a PlayStation Mini in Europe right now, and is set to hit next week in the US. Canabalt costs £1.74/€1.99/AU $3.45.

Canabalt has already made its run as a free Flash game and an iOS title, and Saltsman (or Mr. Atomic, as we assume he sometimes prefers) is hard at work on the official iOS movie tie-in game, The Hunger Games: Girl on Fire.

JoystiqCanabalt makes the jump to PlayStation Minis originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 17 Mar 2012 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adam-atomicadam-saltsmanCanabalteuropeminisplaystationplaystation-vitaps-minisps3pspsonyusvitaSat, 17 Mar 2012 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rayman Origins 3DS delayed until June in Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/rayman-origins-3ds-delayed-until-june-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/rayman-origins-3ds-delayed-until-june-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/rayman-origins-3ds-delayed-until-june-in-europe/#comments The launch of Rayman Origins on 3DS has been delayed in Europe. Initially scheduled to hit today, the game is now pushed back to June 8. Ubisoft offered no explanation for the delay.

Rayman Origins is already out on PC, PS3, Xbox 360 and Vita, but of course none of those offer Rayman in glasses-free 3D.

JoystiqRayman Origins 3DS delayed until June in Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Mar 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsDelayeuropenintendorayman-originsUbisoftFri, 16 Mar 2012 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Phil Harrison heads to Microsoft as vice prez of Interactive Entertainment Business arm]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/report-phil-harrison-filling-molyneuxs-spot-as-head-of-microso/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/report-phil-harrison-filling-molyneuxs-spot-as-head-of-microso/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/report-phil-harrison-filling-molyneuxs-spot-as-head-of-microso/#comments We've officially turned on the theme song to Welcome Back, Kotter and started growing a lustrous mustache in honor of Phil Harrison's return to Game Industry Executiveland. This morning, reports from Europe indicated that Harrison would head to Microsoft -- Microsoft clarified the news later, which named him corporate vice president of Interactive Entertainment Business "with an emphasis on growing the division's European business."

Microsoft corporate vice president of Studios Phil Spencer welcomed Harrison in a press release. "We are honored to have Phil join a team that boasts a wealth of talent from across the industry," Spencer said. Harrison is charged with "overseeing UK-based developers Lionhead Studios, Soho Productions and Rare Ltd.," a role he'll likely warm to quickly given past work as head of worldwide studios for Sony Computer Entertainment.

Harrison's most recent employer is game industry venture capital firm London Venture Partners, where he served as general partner. He continues on as "special advisor." Harrison will not be replacing former Microsoft Studios Europe head Peter Molyneux (who recently left Microsoft), though he will be overseeing Lionhead. Molyneux's role at Lionhead as studio manager is currently occupied by COO Mark Webley, according to Microsoft.

Update: Microsoft announced Harrison's appointment this morning to corporate vice president of Microsoft's "Interactive Entertainment Business" arm, with a focus on European markets. See the full presser just below the jump.

[Image credit: Flickr user 'jontintinjordan']

Continue reading Phil Harrison heads to Microsoft as vice prez of Interactive Entertainment Business arm

JoystiqPhil Harrison heads to Microsoft as vice prez of Interactive Entertainment Business arm originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Mar 2012 10:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europekinectlionheadlionhead-studiosmicrosoftmicrosoft-game-studios-europemicrosoft-studiosmicrosoft-studios-europepeter-molyneuxphil-harrisonrarerare-ltdsoho-productionsxboxTue, 13 Mar 2012 10:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead or Alive 5 falls into the 'alive' category this September]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/06/dead-or-alive-5-falls-into-the-alive-category-this-september/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/06/dead-or-alive-5-falls-into-the-alive-category-this-september/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/06/dead-or-alive-5-falls-into-the-alive-category-this-september/#comments If you want to punch dudes from Virtua Fighter, but not ... in ... Virtua Fighter, you'll have your chance this September. Tecmo Koei confirmed to Joystiq that Dead or Alive 5 will launch worldwide in September.

That marks just about one year since the first unveiling of the fighter at a pre-Tokyo Game Show event. Tecmo promised an emphasis on what it called "fighting entertainment," with an emphasis on more interactive stages.

JoystiqDead or Alive 5 falls into the 'alive' category this September originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 15:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-or-alive-5europemicrosoftplaystationps3release-datetecmo-koeixboxTue, 06 Mar 2012 15:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Spanish retailer lists Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 for November]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/01/spanish-retailer-lists-call-of-duty-black-ops-2-for-november/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/01/spanish-retailer-lists-call-of-duty-black-ops-2-for-november/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/01/spanish-retailer-lists-call-of-duty-black-ops-2-for-november/#comments We don't even officially know that there is a Black Ops 2 yet (though of course there is), but we're already seeing information about when it's allegedly coming out.

OK, yes, it's November. No, we didn't need outside help to figure that out. But Spanish retailer Fnac took it one step further than obvious guesses, as it's actually advertising Black Ops 2 with a November release date.

The store isn't going so far as to take reservations -- instead having people sign up to be alerted when they can -- but it is still advertising a product that doesn't officially exist. To us, that's at least circumstantial evidence that Black Ops 2 does exist.

JoystiqSpanish retailer lists Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 for November originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 01 Mar 2012 11:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Call-of-Duty-Black-Ops-2europefnacmicrosoftpcplaystationps3spainxboxThu, 01 Mar 2012 11:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Peep this European 3DS release schedule]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/23/peep-this-european-3ds-release-schedule/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/23/peep-this-european-3ds-release-schedule/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/23/peep-this-european-3ds-release-schedule/#comments The 3DS is banging on all cylinders these days. While this morning's most intriguing development is still clouded in mystery, there's still quite a bit on the immediate horizon for people to be excited about, especially for our friends across the pond.

Planning is essential when confronted with a lengthy list of potentially cash-worthy releases, so it's a good thing Nintendo has released an updated European 3DS release schedule, which you can check out after the break.

Continue reading Peep this European 3DS release schedule

JoystiqPeep this European 3DS release schedule originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Feb 2012 02:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dseuropeeuropeannintendorelease-calendarrelease-daterelease-scheduleThu, 23 Feb 2012 02:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Game explains the missing Ubisoft Vita launch titles, physics]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/game-explains-the-missing-ubisoft-vita-launch-titles-physics/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/game-explains-the-missing-ubisoft-vita-launch-titles-physics/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/game-explains-the-missing-ubisoft-vita-launch-titles-physics/#comments Game, the UK-based games retailer, was unable to stock any of Ubisoft's Vita day-one titles, breaking the news just hours before the device's midnight launch early this morning. Game still doesn't have definite plans to carry the games, and marketing director Anna-Marie Mason explained why to Eurogamer: "You can see, there's a finite amount of space in a store." No way. Do go on.

"We can't stock absolutely everything. That's just not possible," she said. Mason didn't cite Game's financial troubles as a direct cause of the missing titles, talking past Game's store closures, layoffs, broken credit lines and the potential sale of its international branch.

One possible reason for Game's struggling sales is an influx of cheaper online retailers, but Mason said Game offers something more, citing the store's 2.5 million customers a week. "What our customers get from us, whether they shop with Game or Gamestation, is more than a sterile transaction," Mason said. "They get the opportunity to transact with us in the way they want and they get added value. Our customers will vote with their feet."

Game may stock Ubisoft's Vita launch titles in the future, Mason said, but for now it does offer the games through a "downloadable option," which we're sure will attract dozens of feet.

JoystiqGame explains the missing Ubisoft Vita launch titles, physics originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europegameplaystationplaystation-vitaretailersUbisoftukvitavita-launchWed, 22 Feb 2012 18:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Project Zero 2 (Fatal Frame 2) to terrify European Wii owners]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/project-zero-2-fatal-frame-2-to-terrify-european-wii-owners/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/project-zero-2-fatal-frame-2-to-terrify-european-wii-owners/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/project-zero-2-fatal-frame-2-to-terrify-european-wii-owners/#comments Another gem unearthed from the Nintendo Direct event: Project Zero 2 (known as Fatal Frame 2 in the states) is headed to the Wii in Europe. We don't have many other details, the press release states rather simply that, along with Spirit Camera: The Cursed Memoir, Project Zero 2: Wii Edition "will be coming to Europe." The remake was announced for Japan back in 2010.

The release doesn't specify whether the game will see a North American release as well. Spirit Camera, a Fatal Frame spinoff, has already been confirmed for North America, so hopefully we'll have a Fatal Frame 2 announcement before too long. And, uh, since we're on the subject, how about a little Fatal Frame 4, Nintendo? Pleeease?

Gallery: Fatal Frame (2011) (Wii)

JoystiqProject Zero 2 (Fatal Frame 2) to terrify European Wii owners originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europefatal-frame-2Fatal-Frame-2-Crimson-Butterflyfatal-frame-2-wii-editionnintendonintendo-directproject-zero-2-wii-editionwiiWed, 22 Feb 2012 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Mario Tennis Open served to Japan May 24, Europe May 25, America May 20 [update: trailer]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/mario-tennis-open-served-to-japan-may-24-europe-may-25/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/mario-tennis-open-served-to-japan-may-24-europe-may-25/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/mario-tennis-open-served-to-japan-may-24-europe-may-25/#comments
The Nintendo Direct presentation from Nintendo of Japan brought news of Mario Tennis Open for 3DS, the latest entry in, you know, that series of games about Mario playing tennis. We learned that the sports game will feature online play and Mii customization -- and, most importantly, that it'll be available May 24.

The European translation of the same video informed us that the game will be out on May 25. And now we wait for 9AM EST, and the American Nintendo Direct, for potential news of a stateside release.

Update: Nintendo of America says Mario Tennis Open will arrive in North America on May 20.

JoystiqMario Tennis Open served to Japan May 24, Europe May 25, America May 20 [update: trailer] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dseuropejapanmario-tennis-3dsmario-tennis-opennintendonintendo-directrelease-dateWed, 22 Feb 2012 08:45:00 EST<![CDATA[UK Game store won't sell Ubisoft Vita titles at launch]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/uk-game-store-wont-sell-ubisoft-vita-titles-at-launch/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/uk-game-store-wont-sell-ubisoft-vita-titles-at-launch/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/uk-game-store-wont-sell-ubisoft-vita-titles-at-launch/#comments European retailer Game won't sell any Ubisoft Vita launch titles tonight during the midnight launch of the Vita, even though it is stocking titles from all other major publishers, including EA, Namco Bandai, Capcom, Codemasters and Sega. Game said it will not stock Lumines Electronic Symphony, Michael Jackson: The Experience, Rayman Origins, Asphalt Injection or Dungeon Hunter Alliance, according to a statement picked up by VG24/7.

Neither Game nor Ubisoft provided a specific reason for the shaft. Recently, Game has hit financial trouble and has closed numerous stores, laid off 46 employees from its corporate offices and is looking to sell its international arm.

JoystiqUK Game store won't sell Ubisoft Vita titles at launch originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europegamelumines-electronic-symphonyplaystationplaystation-vitaUbisoftukvitavita-launchTue, 21 Feb 2012 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[SMT: Digital Devil Saga 1 and 2 coming to Euro PSN]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/19/smt-digital-devil-saga-1-and-2-coming-to-euro-psn/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/19/smt-digital-devil-saga-1-and-2-coming-to-euro-psn/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/19/smt-digital-devil-saga-1-and-2-coming-to-euro-psn/#comments Atlus' revered PlayStation 2 classics Shin Megami Tensei: Digital Devil Saga and Shin Megami Tensei: Digital Devil Saga 2 are set to be rereleased on the European PSN, according to a blog post by publisher Ghostlight. No pricing or release date information is available as of yet, nor is there any indication of a North American release, although Atlus has never historically been one to avoid releasing esoteric titles stateside.

Digital Devil Saga and its sequel diverged from the typical Shin Megami Tensei formula by having the characters themselves transform into demons, rather than summon demons, as had previously been the case. Cute girls that turn into demons? Reminds me of my ex-wife! Thank you very much, I'll be here all week. Tip your waitress.

JoystiqSMT: Digital Devil Saga 1 and 2 coming to Euro PSN originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 19 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlusdigital-devil-sagadigital-devil-saga-2europeghostlightplaystationps3PSNshin-megami-tensei-digital-devil-sagashin-megami-tensei-digital-devil-saga-2Sun, 19 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bit.Trip Saga UK launch pushed forward to March 16]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/18/bit-trip-saga-uk-launch-pushed-forward-to-march-16/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/18/bit-trip-saga-uk-launch-pushed-forward-to-march-16/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/18/bit-trip-saga-uk-launch-pushed-forward-to-march-16/#comments Ah, the rare anti-delay, a happenstance so seldom seen in the gaming world that its occurrence should be marked by fireworks and a ticker-tape parade. Those things cost money, though, and our budget is still tapped out from smuggling our Editor in Chief out of South Africa, so this post will have to suffice.

Bit.Trip Saga's UK release date has been changed from March 26 to March 16, according to Pocket Gamer, and while that's still 6 months after the North American release, it is earlier than we were all expecting.

JoystiqBit.Trip Saga UK launch pushed forward to March 16 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 18 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsAksysanti-delaybit-tripbit-trip-sagadelayEUeuropegaijin-gamesnintendorelease-dateSat, 18 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Capcom registers new Darkstalkers trademark in Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/capcom-registers-new-darkstalkers-trademark-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/capcom-registers-new-darkstalkers-trademark-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/capcom-registers-new-darkstalkers-trademark-in-europe/#comments Capcom's only been teasing a re-release or remake of its cult classic 2D fighter Darkstalkers for, oh, three years or so at this point, so we wouldn't call our reaction to this morning's discovery of a European trademark filing for Darkstalkers one of "surprise," exactly. Instead, the reaction was that of expectancy, as we're taking a wild guess that this isn't a registration for a brand new Darkstalkers game as much as it is for an updated port, as Capcom is fond to do with its previously released fighting games (Street Fighter 3: Third Strike Online and Marvel vs Capcom 2 spring to mind).

Furthermore, Street Fighter x Tekken producer Yoshinori Ono has gone out of his way to repeatedly remind fans to push Capcom on the Darkstalkers franchise. "This is all up to the readers. They have to create the buzz. They have to tell us. They have to write the condition. They have to send in all these letters of plead," Ono said back in October 2010. He once again asked fans to voice their opinion in a New York Comic Con panel this past October, which was met with raucous support from showgoers.

Capcom had yet to return our request for comment as of publishing, nor do we expect to hear much until the publisher is good and ready to talk Darkstalkers. Our bet would be in March at GDC or PAX East in April, but we've got our tendrils crossed that we'll hear something sooner. Should you need some Darkstalkers action in the meantime, might we suggest this PSone classics version that's currently available?

Update: Capcom has responded to our request for comment with a one line answer: "We have not made any announcements."

JoystiqCapcom registers new Darkstalkers trademark in Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomdarkstalkerseuropeeuropean-trademarktrademarkWed, 15 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pandora's Tower coming to Europe in April, enjoy gross Valentine's Day cards now]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/pandoras-tower-coming-to-europe-in-april-enjoy-gross-valentine/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/pandoras-tower-coming-to-europe-in-april-enjoy-gross-valentine/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/pandoras-tower-coming-to-europe-in-april-enjoy-gross-valentine/#comments Pandora's Tower is the next European Wii RPG release for us all to be jealous of. Following this month's The Last Story, Pandora's Tower will arrive in Europe on April 13, ensuring an oddly impressive 2012 Wii lineup for the region.

Pandora's Tower is an action-RPG game in which soldier "Aeron" traverses a series of towers to gather monster meat with his magical sword and chain, and then feeds the aforementioned flesh to his cursed friend Elena. Yikes.

Speaking of "yikes," Nintendo chose to mark the announcement with a set of grotesque Pandora's Tower-themed Valentine e-cards. You can view them in the gallery or download them from Nintendo, for any relationships you need to end.

Gallery: Pandora's Tower Valentine's Day 2012 cards

JoystiqPandora's Tower coming to Europe in April, enjoy gross Valentine's Day cards now originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Feb 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europeganbarionnintendopandoras-towerq2-2012release-datewiiTue, 14 Feb 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Vita's Frobisher Says and T@g detailed, free in Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/10/vitas-frobisher-says-and-t-g-detailed-free-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/10/vitas-frobisher-says-and-t-g-detailed-free-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/10/vitas-frobisher-says-and-t-g-detailed-free-in-europe/#comments PlayStation Blog Europe reintroduces us to two Vita games/apps that you might have forgotten about: Frobisher Says and t@g. Frobisher Says is an absurd microgame collection in which up to 8 players pass a Vita around and take on weird tasks assigned by the title character. Examples include "poke an otter with a stick", "deliver my pudding on a toy train", and "smile at some ladies (but not at the badgers!)" As all minigame collections do, this uses all of the Vita's control features.

T@g is an AR app that lets you leave graffiti in real-world locations, which other Vita users can view through the app. Doing so earns you -- we can't believe we're about to type this -- currency called "t@ggits."

Frobisher will be a free download for European pre-orderers this month, and be available for everyone else (in Europe) in May. T@g will be on PSN in Europe in May and can only be used with the 3G Vita (because of its GPS use).

JoystiqVita's Frobisher Says and T@g detailed, free in Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europefrobisher-saysplaystationplaystation-vitapsnrelease-datetagvitaFri, 10 Feb 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Alan Wake PC editions illuminated, not scary anymore]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/alan-wake-pc-editions-illuminated-not-scary-anymore/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/alan-wake-pc-editions-illuminated-not-scary-anymore/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/alan-wake-pc-editions-illuminated-not-scary-anymore/#comments Nordic Games has revealed the contents of its Alan Wake PC editions -- collector's and standard -- which are set to hit Steam on February 16 and retail shelves on March 2. The standard edition includes the full game and The Signal and The Writer DLC packs on one disc, the original soundtrack on a second, six post cards, seven stickers, a poster and a manual.

The collector's edition includes everything in the standard edition, plus audio commentary and background information from developer Remedy Entertainment that can be switched on during the main game. It also has "The Alan Wake Files," 144 pages of evidence complied by in-game author Clay Steward, and a third disc with a making-of feature, the history of Remedy, trailers and behind-the-scenes content.

Alan Wake is set to hit Steam in downloadable form on February 16, at $30 for the standard edition and $35 for the collector's edition, though without the discs and "premium packaging" promised in both retail forms.

JoystiqAlan Wake PC editions illuminated, not scary anymore originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Alan-Wakecollectors-editioneuropenordicpcrelease-dateRemedyremedy-entertainmentretailSTEAMThu, 09 Feb 2012 19:45:00 EST<![CDATA[EU could lose tax breaks for game developers, threatens talent exodus]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/eu-could-lose-tax-breaks-for-game-developers-threatens-talent-e/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/eu-could-lose-tax-breaks-for-game-developers-threatens-talent-e/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/eu-could-lose-tax-breaks-for-game-developers-threatens-talent-e/#comments The European Union provides us a small-scale glimpse into the potential functions of a truly global society -- and more recently, a global society in crisis. The unified currency of the EU, the Euro, was on the brink of collapse recently and all of its member countries are still running damage control.

Now, France in particular is facing another monetary hurdle, as its tax incentive for game development has expired and casued "genuine concern" the EU may not renew the exception that would reinstate it. State aid is normally forbidden under EU law, but in some cases it is allowed -- without an exception, game-development tax incentives would be banned in all EU countries, including France and the UK, Develop reports.

French developer Quantic Dream (Heavy Rain) said that if the tax break is not reinstated it would relocate its operations to Canada, which does offer incentives for development companies, Develop adds. And according to TIGA, The UK's game-development workforce -- which sees no tax breaks -- fell 10 percent between 2008 and 2011, with 41 percent of its workers relocating overseas to countries such as Canada.

JoystiqEU could lose tax breaks for game developers, threatens talent exodus originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 03:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>canadaEUeuropeEuropean-UnionfranceHeavy-Rainmicrosoftmobilenintendopcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3quantic-dreamtax-breakstaxesvitawiixboxThu, 09 Feb 2012 03:15:00 EST<![CDATA[European retailer Game puts a plaster over its money wound]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/european-retailer-game-puts-a-plaster-over-its-money-wound/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/european-retailer-game-puts-a-plaster-over-its-money-wound/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/european-retailer-game-puts-a-plaster-over-its-money-wound/#comments Earlier this week Game met with lenders to discuss its credit problems and options for staying in business, and now Game reports it will operate "with lower limits" and under "revised terms for its facilities." As of November 2011, Game had 1,275 stores in Europe and Australia, but has hinted that it could sell off more than half of its overseas locations, and it plans to close 60 stores by 2013. It closed 39 locations last year.

Game's economic problems aren't an issue solely for retailers, but can affect the larger gaming industry as well -- both EA and Take-Two discussed Game's position during their Q3 financial calls.

JoystiqEuropean retailer Game puts a plaster over its money wound originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsaustraliaclosuredseuropefinancialgamemicrosoftnintendopcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3pspretailsonyvitawiixboxFri, 03 Feb 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Twisted Metal launch stalled in Europe, pushed back to March]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/twisted-metal-launch-stalled-in-europe-pushed-back-to-march/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/twisted-metal-launch-stalled-in-europe-pushed-back-to-march/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/twisted-metal-launch-stalled-in-europe-pushed-back-to-march/#comments Localization issues are holding up the launch of Twisted Metal in Europe, David Jaffe confirmed in a NeoGAF post today. Though he couldn't say exactly when the title would launch in March, it seems the whole month is in play -- it could pull into retail as early as March 1 or at the end of the month. Twisted Metal is still on board for a Valentine's Day launch on February 14 in North America.

In addition to the delay, the European version will be modified. Jaffe says SCEE censored certain portions of cutscenes and minor gameplay elements have been tweaked. "99 percent of the cuts were in the movies and the movies are still intact and I sat with the editor -- who was the same editor of the American movies -- and we went thru and addressed the notes from Europe and made sure the stories still worked," Jaffe wrote in his post. As for the gameplay edits, Jaffe only spoke of one minor change: the guy laying on the gurney from Meat Wagon is now a cadaver rather than a live, screaming corpse. Yep, we're furious too.

Oh well, at least you've got that demo to keep you company in the meanwhile.

JoystiqTwisted Metal launch stalled in Europe, pushed back to March originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>delaydelayseat-sleep-playeuropeplaystationps3sceetwisted-metal-2011twisted-metal-2012Fri, 03 Feb 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[5,000 new 3DS hotspots available in Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/01/5-000-new-3ds-hotspots-available-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/01/5-000-new-3ds-hotspots-available-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/01/5-000-new-3ds-hotspots-available-in-europe/#comments
A new deal will help facilitate downloading Virtual Console games or playing Mario Kart online instead of whatever you're supposed to be doing while you're out. Nintendo of Europe has partnered with free-hotspot.com, giving 3DS owners free use of "over 5,000 Wi-Fi hotspots across 21 European countries."

According to Nintendo, a 3DS will automatically find and connect to one of these hotspots, which are located in fast food chains and hotels. You can also do email and web browsing type stuff with the 3DS, though if you're like us, you probably avoid console web browsers whenever possible.

Joystiq5,000 new 3DS hotspots available in Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Feb 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dseuropefree-hotspot.comhotspotnintendowifiWed, 01 Feb 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PSN maintenance starts this Thursday at 9am EST, through Friday morning]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/01/psn-maintenance-starts-this-thursday-at-9am-est-through-friday/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/01/psn-maintenance-starts-this-thursday-at-9am-est-through-friday/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/01/psn-maintenance-starts-this-thursday-at-9am-est-through-friday/#comments Sony has announced on its European forums that maintenance time has been scheduled for the PlayStation Network this Thursday, February 2, from 2PM GMT until 8AM Friday morning. If the maintenance carries over to the US (and it usually does), it'll start at 6AM PST Thursday until midnight PST, or 9AM to 3AM for those of you on the East Coast.

Fortunately, the outage doesn't seem to include gameplay -- Sony says that it will only affect the PS Store, Customer Account Management and Registration services. PlayStation Home, however, will be offline the entire time. So ... that doesn't sound so bad! Just pour yourself a cup of tea, grab something good to read and wrap yourself in a warm blanket, and the outage will be over before you know it.

JoystiqPSN maintenance starts this Thursday at 9am EST, through Friday morning originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europehomeplaystationps3psapsnpsn-homepspsonyukWed, 01 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Soulcalibur 5 DLC lets you buy bikinis and animal heads in Feb.]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/27/soulcalibur-5-dlc-lets-you-buy-bikinis-and-animal-heads-in-feb/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/27/soulcalibur-5-dlc-lets-you-buy-bikinis-and-animal-heads-in-feb/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/27/soulcalibur-5-dlc-lets-you-buy-bikinis-and-animal-heads-in-feb/#comments If you pick up Soulcalibur 5 next week, and find that your custom character just isn't looking right without, say, a bikini, wings, and face paint, Namco's got you covered (in bikinis, wings, and face paint). The publisher has announced three DLC packs for Europe, each running 160 Microsoft Points or €1.99, and each loaded with basically insane things to put on your characters. As a nice bonus, they all include in-game music tracks from previous Caliburs, which can also be purchased individually.

On February 3, you can buy the aforementioned bikinis, wings, and face paints as part of a bundle of "nine exotic customization items." This comes with music from Soul Blade and Soul Calibur. February 14 includes "fearsome" items like "breast plate, kimono, and animal heads." Animal heads. This set is bundled with SC2 and 3 music. Finally, on February 28, you can get nine more items, including "mask, face paint, camouflage and skull." Along with your download, you get music from Soulcalibur IV and Soulcalibur Broken Destiny.

No announcement has been made for a North American release, but we're confident Namco will let you buy that kimono and skull soon enough.

Continue reading Soulcalibur 5 DLC lets you buy bikinis and animal heads in Feb.

JoystiqSoulcalibur 5 DLC lets you buy bikinis and animal heads in Feb. originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Jan 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlceuropemicrosoftplaystationps3soulcalibur-5soulcalibur-vxboxFri, 27 Jan 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sonic the Hedgehog store offers one-stop Jet the Hawk memorabilia shopping]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/18/sonic-the-hedgehog-store-offers-one-stop-jet-the-hawk-memorabili/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/18/sonic-the-hedgehog-store-offers-one-stop-jet-the-hawk-memorabili/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/18/sonic-the-hedgehog-store-offers-one-stop-jet-the-hawk-memorabili/#comments Sega of Europe just opened a new online Sonic the Hedgehog shop, allowing you to get all the backpacks, school supplies, figurines and other hedgehog-bearing material you could possibly want. Need a figure of one of the robot bug enemies, or Jet the Hawk on a hoverboard? You got it! Need Sonic the Headhog? No problem!

Right now, the shop is only available in Europe -- and offering 15 percent off almost everything -- but Sega plans to open an American version later, for those of you stateside looking to get a ring binder (for paper, not rings).

JoystiqSonic the Hedgehog store offers one-stop Jet the Hawk memorabilia shopping originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 Jan 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europemerchandisesonic-the-hedgehogukWed, 18 Jan 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SCE VP: Move should have done better in Europe (but it didn't)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/sce-vp-move-should-have-done-better-in-europe-but-it-didnt/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/sce-vp-move-should-have-done-better-in-europe-but-it-didnt/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/sce-vp-move-should-have-done-better-in-europe-but-it-didnt/#comments Sony Computer Entertainment UK VP Fergal Gara said the Move could have, should have done better in Europe, noting that the system's software lineup is crucial to its success. Gara named only one title, Sports Champions, that sold the best "by far" with a few hundred thousand units. We assume he expressed SCE's disappointment with the Move's success in the tone of, "I should have lost 20 pounds by now, even though I never work out and I eat bacon with every meal."

Gara is focusing on future titles to support Move, and by "titles" he means Sorcery (a game announced at E3 2010), and "other things that we know are bubbling under." SCE is stepping up its marketing and internal development for Move, Gara said, hoping to revitalize Move in 2012.

JoystiqSCE VP: Move should have done better in Europe (but it didn't) originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Jan 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europemoveplaystationps3scesorcerysports-championsThu, 12 Jan 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii becomes best-selling current generation console in Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/wii-becomes-best-selling-current-generation-console-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/wii-becomes-best-selling-current-generation-console-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/wii-becomes-best-selling-current-generation-console-in-europe/#comments We're always wary to talk numbers and Europe in the same breath, mostly because numbers over there don't mean the same as they do here. "One pound is a half kilogram? What does that even mean?" Luckily for us, there's no way to misconstrue the fact that the Wii is now the best-selling console in Europe this generation.

The European chapter of the Wii Defense Force is popping the bubbly now, we imagine, celebrating the 30 million Wii consoles in the region as of 2011's end. New console bundles brought a new "value Wii" into the region, The PS3 isn't far behind, however, with reports of over 22 million consoles sold at the end of August. But, the Wii figure looks even better when compared to the GameCube, which sold 4.7 million throughout its five year lifetime in Europe and Australia, combined.

On the peripheral front, Nintendo's also got robust sales figures for its Wii Balance Board and its bundled titles, Wii Fit and Wii Fit Plus, to celebrate. 22.67 million copies of Wii Fit and 19.31 million copies of Wii Fit Plus have been sold worldwide.

JoystiqWii becomes best-selling current generation console in Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balance-boardeuropenintendopalsaleswiiwii-balance-boardwii-fitWii-Fit-Pluswii-jrWed, 11 Jan 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Metal Gear Solid: Snake Eater 3D served Feb. 21 in North America, March 8 in Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/metal-gear-solid-snake-eater-3d-served-feb-21-in-north-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/metal-gear-solid-snake-eater-3d-served-feb-21-in-north-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/metal-gear-solid-snake-eater-3d-served-feb-21-in-north-america/#comments Someday, you'll feed on a tree frog ... in 3D. That day could be as soon as Febuary 21. Today, Konami revealed that to be the North American release date for Metal Gear Solid: Snake Eater 3D. Europe follows on March 8 -- the same day the remade spy epic parachutes into Japan.

Snake Eater 3D features compatibility with the Circle Pad Pro accessory, which will be released in North America exclusively to GameStop stores on February 7. It also features compatibility with the 3DS's built-in features, like the gyro sensor and the camera.

Continue reading Metal Gear Solid: Snake Eater 3D served Feb. 21 in North America, March 8 in Europe

JoystiqMetal Gear Solid: Snake Eater 3D served Feb. 21 in North America, March 8 in Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Jan 2012 13:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dseuropekonamimetal-gear-solid-3-snake-eater-3dmetal-gear-solid-3d-snake-eaternintendorelease-dateTue, 10 Jan 2012 13:35:00 EST