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[Revenant Wings 2: Revenant Harder may be coming]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/03/revenant-wings-2-revenant-harder-may-be-coming/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/03/revenant-wings-2-revenant-harder-may-be-coming/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/03/revenant-wings-2-revenant-harder-may-be-coming/#commentsFiled under: ,


We doubt that's going to be the real title, but we never could avoid sequel humor. Apparently, director Motomu Toriyama enjoyed making Final Fantasy XII: Revenant Wings so much that he'd like to develop a sequel.

This is by no means a confirmation or an announcement or any of the other things it'll be labeled on message boards. It's just a casual statement. But a Revenant Wings sequel seems likely, since the sales have been pretty good, and, most importantly, we're talking about Square Enix, who has kind of a thing for sequels.

JoystiqRevenant Wings 2: Revenant Harder may be coming originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 May 2007 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsds liteDsLiteenixff12ffxiifinal fantasyfinal fantasy xiiFinalFantasyfinalfantasy12finalfantasyxiilitenintendonintendo dsNintendoDsrevenantrevenant wingsRevenantWingsrpgrumorssequelsequelssquaresquare enixSquareEnixtoriyamawingsThu, 03 May 2007 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sample some of Monster Kingdom's impressive soundtrack]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/23/sample-some-of-monster-kingdoms-impressive-soundtrack/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/23/sample-some-of-monster-kingdoms-impressive-soundtrack/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/23/sample-some-of-monster-kingdoms-impressive-soundtrack/#commentsFiled under: ,


Did you read my hands-on of Atlus' upcoming PSP-exclusive RPG, Monster kingdom: Jewel Summoner? The game has some serious talent behind it, especially in the music department. The RPG features works from celebrated composers, listed below:
  • Shinji Hosoe (Ridge Racer series)
  • Hitoshi Sakimoto (Final Fantasy XII)
  • Yasunori Mitsuda (Chrono Trigger, Xenosaga)
  • Kenji Ito (Sword of Mana)
  • Yoko Shimomura (Street Fighter II)
  • Masaharu Iwata (Final Fantasy Tactics)
  • Tsukasa Masuko (Shin Megami Tensei series)
  • Yasuyuki Suzuki (Doshin the Giant)
  • Ayako Saso (Phantom Kingdom)
  • Takahiro Ogata (Shin Megami Tensei NINE)
The soundtrack to the game features 44 tracks from these famous composers, and samples can be heard on Atlus' newly opened official website for the game. The game hits stores on February 13th. Expect a full review closer to that date.

JoystiqSample some of Monster Kingdom's impressive soundtrack originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Jan 2007 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chrono triggerChronoTriggerff12ffxiifinal fantasy xiiFinalFantasyXiihitoshi sakimotoHitoshiSakimotojewel summonerJewelSummonermonster kingdomMonsterKingdomsoundtrackxenosagayasunori mitsudaYasunoriMitsudaTue, 23 Jan 2007 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XII hits Europe on Feb. 23]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/12/final-fantasy-xii-hits-europe-on-feb-23/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/12/final-fantasy-xii-hits-europe-on-feb-23/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/12/final-fantasy-xii-hits-europe-on-feb-23/#commentsFiled under: ,


It's about bloody time news now, with Square Enix announcing the official release date for Final Fantasy XII in PAL territories. Arriving on February 23rd (that's 2007), role-playing fans in Europe are the last to receive a game rife with political intrigue, androgynous street urchins and bunny-eared vixens. We think that might actually be the description on the back of the box.

There's no mention of a fancy collector's edition, but rumor has it that the game itself is well worth the asking price. Particularly impatient gamers would do well to pick up Okami in the meantime -- it's finally out in Europe on February 9th.

JoystiqFinal Fantasy XII hits Europe on Feb. 23 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Jan 2007 10:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>FF12FFXIIFinal FantasyFinal Fantasy XIIFinalFantasyFinalFantasyXiiJRPGPS2RPGSquare EnixSquare-EnixSquareEnixFri, 12 Jan 2007 10:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Molyneux, others join GDC lineup, Fable 'talk' imminent]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/09/molyneux-others-join-gdc-lineup-fable-talk-imminent/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/09/molyneux-others-join-gdc-lineup-fable-talk-imminent/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/09/molyneux-others-join-gdc-lineup-fable-talk-imminent/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Peter MolyneuxHaving the inside scoop, Gamasutra reports that Peter Molyneux, Killer 7's Goichi Suda, and a team of Final Fantasy XII developers led by Taku Murata are joining the GDC 2007 lineup. Molyneux, well known for his mastery of hype-building (and subsequent apologies), will by lecturing on Fable 2, musing aloud about the brilliant innovations that might or might not make the final cut -- Molyneux promises to reveal "a totally unexpected feature" (we've heard that before).

Teasing aside, Molyneux is one of the most forward-thinking developers in the industry today. He might not always deliver, but he's earned his street cred for being a risk-taker. Molyneux's colorful presence is a key addition to GDC.

Also making appearances during the conference will be Goichi Suda, who will illustrate the experience of working on a small development team (in this case, Grasshopper), along with Taku Murata and other core members of the FFXII team, who will reflect on the lessons learned during the game's development.

JoystiqMolyneux, others join GDC lineup, Fable 'talk' imminent originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Jan 2007 17:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>360FableFable 2Fable2Final FantasyFinal Fantasy XIIFinalFantasyFinalFantasyXiiGameCubeGDCGDC07Goichi SudaGoichiSudaKiller 7Killer7Peter MolyneuxPeterMolyneuxPS2Square-EnixTaku MurataTakuMurataXbox-360Tue, 09 Jan 2007 17:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Best of the rest: Ludwig's picks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/01/best-of-the-rest-ludwigs-picks/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/01/best-of-the-rest-ludwigs-picks/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/01/best-of-the-rest-ludwigs-picks/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,


Sam & Max Episode 1 : Culture Shock (PC)
I never thought I'd actually be grateful to LucasArts for assassinating their sequel to Sam & Max: Freelance Police. Now residing in the capable hands of Telltale Games, the series is setting the standard for episodic content and adventure gaming. Complete failure to laugh at Culture Shock's absolutely brilliant writing, memorable characters and off-the-wall puzzles indicates one of two things: either you're a robot, or you've recently discovered a dead kitten in your lap. (See also: My reviews of Culture Shock and Situation: Comedy.)

Continue reading Best of the rest: Ludwig's picks

JoystiqBest of the rest: Ludwig's picks originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 01 Jan 2007 18:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Final FantasyFinal Fantasy XIIFinalFantasyFinalFantasyXiiGame of the YearGameOfTheYearGhost ReconGhostReconGOTYLuminesMetal Gear SolidMetalGearSolidOkamiPCPS2PSPSonicSquare-EnixTomb RaiderTombRaiderXbox-360XenosagaMon, 01 Jan 2007 18:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix establishes Ivalice Alliance]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/13/square-enix-establishes-ivalice-alliance/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/13/square-enix-establishes-ivalice-alliance/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/13/square-enix-establishes-ivalice-alliance/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Easily mistaken for a vicious brand of shampoo and very often catapulted into turmoil by wars and magical beasts, the fictional kingdom of Ivalice has been the setting for a handful of Square Enix titles, almost all of them well-received by critics and fans alike. Just recently, Final Fantasy XII followed the adventures of some Ivaliceans Ivalicians free-spirited (and pointy-eared, in one case) residents of Ivalice. It follows then that Square Enix has announced an "Ivalice Alliance," a set of stories all taking place on the same stage.

Though you're already familiar with Final Fantasy XII: Revenant Wings (slated for the DS), you may not have heard of the other two games revealed in the latest issue of Japan's Shonen Jump. The pages first mention Final Fantasy Tactics: The Lion War, a PSP remake of the original PSOne Tactics game. Some new cutscenes and a slight graphical upgrade are likely to be included, though we certainly wouldn't mind a better localization as well -- that's assuming the game makes it stateside. Secondly, there's (deep breath) Final Fantasy Tactics A2: The Sealed Black Book. According to the translation note on Jeux France, it hasn't yet been specified whether it'll wind up on the DS or, as the horrific machine translation puts it, the "Game Servant Boy Advance." The latter choice, of course, will result in the game working on both platforms. Snap to it, servant boy!

Another magazine, Gamelabo, reportedly mentions that Square Enix also has two more unannounced Xbox 360 games in the pipeline.

JoystiqSquare Enix establishes Ivalice Alliance originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 Dec 2006 12:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSFF12Final Fantasy XIIFinal-Fantasy-TacticsFinal-Fantasy-Tactics-The-War-Of-The-LionsFinalFantasyXiiIvaliceIvalice AllianceIvaliceAlliancePS2PSPRPGSquare-EnixStrategyThe Sealed Black BookTheSealedBlackBookTOSEXbox-360Wed, 13 Dec 2006 12:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XII: Revenant Wings updates]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/31/final-fantasy-xii-revenant-wings-updates/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/31/final-fantasy-xii-revenant-wings-updates/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/31/final-fantasy-xii-revenant-wings-updates/#commentsFiled under:

Just in time for the US release of Final Fantasy XII, updates for the spin-off have surfaced. Co-producer Eisuke Yokoyama and scenario writer/director Motomu Toriyama talked a bit with Dengeki DS Style magazine about the battle system, characters, summons and the world of Ivalice. Here are a few snippets from the IGN article:

  • Asked if the game would use FFXII's ADB system, Yokoyama said that the battle system is mostly new. However, in order to keep FFXII players from getting confused, there will be a number of shared elements. The Gambit system will be a part of this title, although it will be simplified in order to accommodate beginner players. Also, the battle system will be fully playable with the stylus.
  • Dengeki asked a question about the number of party members capable of joining your group. To this, Yokoyama responded that Fran and Balthier will definitely join in as party members (they were shown in the Tokyo Game Show trailer, after all). Due to the new game systems, Yokoyama expects there to be more party members than in FFXII.
  • Summon beasts will apparently play a big role in the game. Toriyama expects Revenant Wings to have the most summon beasts of any Final Fantasy game ever. The summon beasts will be the key to battles, said Toriyama, and their use will be different from that of previous titles.

As more and more details appear, the eager question of Wi-Fi support sticks in our mind. There hasn't been any word involving Wi-Fi and Revenant Wings but we hope to hear some in the future. With the game taking advantage of every other aspect the Nintendo DS has to offer it would be a shame to see a key element get left out in the cold.

JoystiqFinal Fantasy XII: Revenant Wings updates originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 31 Oct 2006 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ffff dsFfDsfinal fantasy xiifinal fantasy xii revenant wingsFinalFantasyXiiFinalFantasyXiiRevenantWingsnintendo dsNintendoDspenelorevenant wingsRevenantWingssquare enixSquareEnixvaanvaan peneloVaanPeneloTue, 31 Oct 2006 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XII soundtrack streaming on AOL Radio]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/24/final-fantasy-xii-soundtrack-streaming-on-aol-radio/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/24/final-fantasy-xii-soundtrack-streaming-on-aol-radio/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/24/final-fantasy-xii-soundtrack-streaming-on-aol-radio/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Excited about the unrelenting Final Fantasy tide washing over you once again this month? In North America, we'll be treated to the twelfth installment of one of console gaming's most venerable franchises on the 30th of this month and -- like with any Final Fantasy game -- there are some necessities. First, we'll see cosplayers dressed as their favorite androgynous characters , and then the music will permeate our brains.

The fine folks at AOL Radio (full disclosure: AOL is our corporate overlord) let us know that they're spinning the "Selections from Final Fantasy XII" CD -- available for pre-order on Amazon -- on their recently relaunched Final Fantasy Radio channel. Not many game soundtracks get released outside of Japan, so ToFu Records should be commended.

PC users can follow this link to have a listen. Mac users need to download a program (.dmg file) and use their AIM or AOL screen name to enjoy (see pic above).

See also:
Joystiq at NYC's Final Fantasy Day festivities
Happy Final Fantasy music day

JoystiqFinal Fantasy XII soundtrack streaming on AOL Radio originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Oct 2006 13:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AOL RadioAolRadioFFXIIFinal FantasyFinal Fantasy XIIFinalFantasyFinalFantasyXiiMusicPS2Square-EnixTue, 24 Oct 2006 13:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq at NYC's Final Fantasy Day festivities]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/11/joystiq-at-nycs-final-fantasy-day-festivities/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/11/joystiq-at-nycs-final-fantasy-day-festivities/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/11/joystiq-at-nycs-final-fantasy-day-festivities/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


New York City's Times Square was overwhelmed by Final Fantasy fans as Square-Enix premiered the English language version of the upcoming Final Fantasy XII, which will be playable at this week's DigitalLife conference, which starts tomorrow. The trailer, shown to great excitement amongst fans, featured great visuals (as expected) and some truly impressive voice acting. For those of you that have HDTVs, you'll be glad to know that the US version has been enhanced with new anamorphic widescreen (16:9) functionality.

Check out a shaky-cam version of the trailer, and some pics from the event after the break.

Continue reading Joystiq at NYC's Final Fantasy Day festivities

JoystiqJoystiq at NYC's Final Fantasy Day festivities originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Oct 2006 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>digital lifeDigitalLifeff12ffxiifinal fantasyfinal fantasy 12final fantasy xiiFinalFantasyFinalFantasy12FinalFantasyXiinew yorknew york cityNewYorkNewYorkCitynynycPS2squaresquare enixsquare-enixSquareEnixtimes squareTimesSquaretrailerWed, 11 Oct 2006 17:20:00 EST<![CDATA[1UP urges us to buy, not steal]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/03/1up-urges-us-to-buy-not-steal/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/03/1up-urges-us-to-buy-not-steal/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/03/1up-urges-us-to-buy-not-steal/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Keep it right!1UP reports that Final Fantasy XII is being illegally distributed via bit torrent, with multiple bit torrent user comments confirming that the torrents house playable English versions of Square Enix's RPG. In response to the alleged leak, the site has issued the following PSA:

"Forgetting that pirating is a criminal activity, 'Final Fantasy XII' is supposed to be an absolutely incredible RPG -- we strongly encourage gamers to wait a few more weeks for the real game to properly reward Square Enix for their labored work."

We can't think of a better way to put it. Keep it real right, y'all!

Joystiq1UP urges us to buy, not steal originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Oct 2006 15:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bit torrentBitTorrentFinal Fantasy XIIFinalFantasyXiileakleakedleechleecherpiracypiratedPS2seedseederSquare EnixSquare-EnixSquareEnixtorrentTue, 03 Oct 2006 15:35:00 EST<![CDATA[FFXII Revenant Wings updates]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/28/ffxii-revenant-wings-updates/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/28/ffxii-revenant-wings-updates/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/28/ffxii-revenant-wings-updates/#commentsFiled under:

Final Fantasy XII is inches away from its US release and the news about the DS spin off is everywhere. Final Fantasy XII: Revenant Wings was recently announced and fans of the series can't get enough. What started as a rumor has spread like wildfire, capturing every RPG lover's attention.

Here is what we know about the game so far:

  • Takes place years after the events of Final Fantasy XII
  • Stars two main characters Vaan and his lady friend Penelo
  • Vaan has achieved his dream of being a sky pirate (who will never beat ninjas) and has his own ship which Penelo operates
  • The pair are on a quest to reach the island in the sky, Poolbama (temp title), to grasp the treasure of Grevados

How the game will play is still up in the air but we hope to see a ton of air combat. If you are still in the dark about FFXII Revenant Wings, check out the trailer. We hope to hear more about this game soon and as always, we'll keep you updated.

[Via QJ Net]

JoystiqFFXII Revenant Wings updates originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Sep 2006 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>famitsufinal fantasyfinal fantasy dsfinal fantasy xiiFinalFantasyFinalFantasyDsFinalFantasyXiipenelopiraterevenant wingsRevenantWingssquare enixSquareEnixvaanThu, 28 Sep 2006 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[FFXII Revenant Wings site open]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/24/ff-xii-revenant-wings-site-open/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/24/ff-xii-revenant-wings-site-open/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/24/ff-xii-revenant-wings-site-open/#commentsFiled under:

We knew that the Force was with us today when we randomly did a search on "Square-Enix Japan." Not only did the search remind us that we lack the correct language skills to read what was going on, we found that the Final Fantasy XII: Revenant Wings site is up and running.

For a second we stared in awe at the opening animation then hurriedly tried to understand what was being said and shown. Once again, our attempts were thwarted.

We really need to start those Japanese classes ....

See also:

JoystiqFFXII Revenant Wings site open originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 24 Sep 2006 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ff xiiFF XII DSFfXiiFfXiiDsfinal fantasyFinal Fantasy XiiFinal Fantasy XII Revenant WingsFinalFantasyFinalFantasyXiiFinalFantasyXiiRevenantWingsnintendo dsNintendoDsrevenant wingsRevenantWingssquare enixSquareEnixtokyo game showTokyoGameShowSun, 24 Sep 2006 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[No Final Fantasy XII for Europe this holiday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/21/no-final-fantasy-xii-fix-for-europe-this-holiday/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/21/no-final-fantasy-xii-fix-for-europe-this-holiday/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/21/no-final-fantasy-xii-fix-for-europe-this-holiday/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Final Fantasy XIIJapan's all, "Been there, done that." And North America's carefully eyeing Halloween -- planning an excuse for some cosplay en route to score the latest Final Fantasy. But what about Europe? Well, Europe waits until "next year."

Square Enix has announced that Final Fantasy XII's European release will miss the holidays, landing in PAL territories in early 2007. Not much of a surprise (given the industry's typical pecking order), but a huge disappointment.

JoystiqNo Final Fantasy XII for Europe this holiday originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 21 Sep 2006 15:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EuropeFinal FantasyFinal Fantasy XIIFinalFantasyFinalFantasyXiiPALPS2Square EnixSquare-EnixSquareEnixThu, 21 Sep 2006 15:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Winner of strongest fall lineup is ... PS2?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/08/winner-of-strongest-fall-lineup-goes-to-ps2/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/08/winner-of-strongest-fall-lineup-goes-to-ps2/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/08/winner-of-strongest-fall-lineup-goes-to-ps2/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

weightlifterGameworld Network has pieced together an outline of 10 upcoming PlayStation 2 titles, tagging the list "10 Reasons Not to Sell Your PS2 Just Yet." With the exceptions of Dawn of Mana and God of War 2, all of these titles will hit US retailers by early November -- and seven are exclusive to PS2. Starting with Rule of Rose's release next week, there's practically a must-play title dropping for PS2 every week through November 7:
  • Rule of Rose (September 12)
  • Okami (September 19)
  • God Hand (October 10)
  • Bully (October 17)
  • Final Fantasy XII (October 31)
  • Rogue Galaxy (October)
  • Guitar Hero II (November 7)
Can anyone show us a console/handheld with a stronger fall lineup? Nope, we didn't think so ... Sony might have lost points because of a pair of disappointing PS3 announcements, but that's not gonna affect PS2's continued dominance leading up to the holiday season.

[Thanks, Matt]

JoystiqWinner of strongest fall lineup is ... PS2? originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Sep 2006 13:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BullyFinal Fantasy XIIFinalFantasyXiiGod HandGodHandGuitar Hero IIGuitarHeroIilineupOkamiPS2release dateReleaseDateRogue GalaxyRogueGalaxyRule of RoseRuleOfRoseSquare-EnixFri, 08 Sep 2006 13:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix talks up innovation, hints at new hardware]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/08/08/square-enix-talks-up-innovation-hints-at-new-hardware/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/08/08/square-enix-talks-up-innovation-hints-at-new-hardware/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/08/08/square-enix-talks-up-innovation-hints-at-new-hardware/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Though you might be inclined to give Square Enix president, Yoichi Wada, an incredulous stare as he discusses the merits of innovation before the release of Final Fantasy Thirteen, a recent interview with Nikkei Business Online points to his fairly levelheaded approach to the topic. "If we don't see some [next-generation] titles that differ from traditional games, the industry is in trouble. Nintendo's DS lineup gives you an idea of the potential..." However, Mr. Wada goes on to say that immmediately tossing out all previous conventions and concepts isn't necessarily the best solution.

"We must change. But if we change all at once, the system will collapse, and since our profits are built on that system, it's a difficult question. So you have to introduce change from a completely unrelated direction within a separate budget framework. This is something all the companies are worrying about right now. Fortunately, we're financially prepared to handle change." It raises the interesting point that change may be easy to trumpet but difficult to usher in, requiring gradual steps and some assistance from current franchises. The earlier point regarding the DS' success is an interesting one, since Nintendo's many franchises and characters were arguably instrumental in introducing a different way of playing games.

The ability of unique hardware to funnel innovation in certain ways also intrigues Square, which is why "Square Enix will collaborate with Taito, a company that produces physical hardware. In our talks with Taito, ideas for an actual physical product have come up. In any case, we will be releasing some 'thing.' It's interesting in that it's not the sort of thing you expect from Square Enix." With that in mind, we now can't wait to play some sort of Final Fantasy game on a Square Enix thing at an undisclosed time in the future.

[Via Gamasutra]

JoystiqSquare Enix talks up innovation, hints at new hardware originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 Aug 2006 13:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSFinal FantasyFinal Fantasy VIIFinal Fantasy XIIFinal Fantasy XIIIFinalFantasyFinalFantasyViiFinalFantasyXiiFinalFantasyXiiiInnovationPS2PS3RPGSequelsSquare EnixSquare-EnixSquareEnixXbox-360Yoichi WadaYoichiWadaTue, 08 Aug 2006 13:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XII releasing this Halloween]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/28/final-fantasy-xii-releasing-this-halloween/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/28/final-fantasy-xii-releasing-this-halloween/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/28/final-fantasy-xii-releasing-this-halloween/#commentsFiled under: ,


For those dreaming of the gorgeous gun ballet glimpsed in Final Fantasy XIII, it may come as a rude awakening when we loudly exclaim, "Hang on, we haven't even gotten number 12 yet!"  Thankfully, Square Enix has answered our call by officially announcing the North American release date for their next inevitably epic RPG. Final Fantasy XII will be in stores this Halloween, 31 October 2006. If ever there was a good reason for Sephiroth and Rikku cosplayers to head out into public and purchase the game in full fantasy garb, this is it.

Not to be left behind on the platform as the Collector's Edition trend train heads off, the game will be arriving in two distinct versions. The vanilla package will retail for $49.99, whereas the Collector's Edition, laced with interviews, series featurettes, trailers, art galleries and ancient evils, will be available at Gamestop and EB Games exclusively for $59.99. Depending on how fond you are of the non-final franchise, that's either a trick or a treat.

[Image: Advent Children.net]

JoystiqFinal Fantasy XII releasing this Halloween originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Jun 2006 20:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AnimeFF12FFXIIFinal FantasyFinal Fantasy VIIFinal Fantasy XIIFinalFantasyFinalFantasyViiFinalFantasyXiiHalloweenJRPGPS2RPGSquare EnixSquare-EnixSquareEnixSqueenixWed, 28 Jun 2006 20:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Chicago signing for Uematsu, Aki, & Roth tonight]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/26/chicago-signing-for-uematsu-aki-and-roth-tonight/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/26/chicago-signing-for-uematsu-aki-and-roth-tonight/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/26/chicago-signing-for-uematsu-aki-and-roth-tonight/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Angela Aki, Arnie Roth, and Nobuo Uematsu in an entirely Photoshopped group shotAre you in Chicago tonight for the big PLAY! concert tomorrow, but weren't willing to shell out $125 for the VIP meet-and-greet at the event? Well, you might be in luck (even if you're not attending), as a few famous folks from the concert will be on hand to sign autographs in Chicago proper for free tonight.

From 7 to 9 PM (presumably Central time) at the Tower Records store on 2301 N. Clark St., Final Fantasy composer Nobuo Uematsu, bilingual songstress Angela Aki (who wrote and sang the theme song for FFXII), and Principal Conductor and Music Director of PLAY! Arnie Roth will be signing autographs to promote the world-tour premiere of 'PLAY! A Video Game Symphony' and the CD for More Friends - Music from FINAL FANTASY.

While this blogger is sadly occupied with prior engagements tonight, gamers in the area are more than welcome to mob that Tower Records and cause the store's employees much consternation and bewilderment. If you don't have any imported CDs to sign, however, don't fret: the store's web site claims to have "some awesome Japanese imports available for you to purchase and have autographed at the event." Not only that, Angela Aki will be performing live as well. Score! Anybody wanna tell us how this evening turns out when it's all sung and done?

[Via The Daily Northwestern; image culled from Angela Aki's blog, Nobuo Uematsu's Squenix profile, and Arnie Roth's 2005 interview with IGN]

See also:

JoystiqChicago signing for Uematsu, Aki, & Roth tonight originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 May 2006 14:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>$1252301 N. Clark St.2301N.ClarkSt.AkiAngela AkiAngelaAkiArnie RothArnieRothattendattendingautographautographsbilingualCDCDsChicagocomposerconcertconductordirectoreventFFFF 12FF XIIFf12FfXiiFinal FantasyFinal Fantasy 12Final Fantasy XIIFinalFantasyFinalFantasy12FinalFantasyXiifreeimportimportedJapanJapaneselivemaestromeet and greetmeet-and-greetMeetAndGreetMore FriendsMoreFriendsMusic DirectorMusic from Final FantasyMusicDirectorMusicFromFinalFantasyNobuoNobuo UematsuNobuoUematsuperformperformingPLAY!PLAY! A Video Game SymphonyPlay!AVideoGameSymphonypremierePrincipal ConductorPrincipalConductorpromotepromotingpromotionPS2RothsangsignsigningsingsongsongstressSquare-Enixsungsymphonythemetheme songThemeSongtourTowerTower RecordsTowerRecordsUematsuVIPworld tourworld-tourWorldTourFri, 26 May 2006 14:40:00 EST<![CDATA[3 Final Fantasy XIII games; 2 just for PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/08/3-final-fantasy-xiii-games-2-just-for-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/08/3-final-fantasy-xiii-games-2-just-for-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/08/3-final-fantasy-xiii-games-2-just-for-ps3/#commentsFiled under:

FFXIII screen with new heroine in action
Final Fantasy XII won't be out for the PS2 in the States until October, but we now have a glimpse of Final Fantasy XIII thanks to Square Enix's pre-E3 press event -- and this installment in the series won't be coming alone.

Like the different titles in the Compilation of FFVII collection of games and movies, the initially announced installments in the FFXIII universe will span multiple platforms which, in this case, include both the PS3 and sufficiently advanced mobile handsets. Not much is known about the mobile-bound Final Fantasy Agito XIII, but the subtitle-less version of FFXIII will concern a gun-and-sword-toting heroine in a futuristic world, while Final Fantasy Versus XIII will focus on "a spiky-haired character," "extreme action elements," and a primary theme of "bonding" (whatever that means). Anybody ready to "resist the world"?

The multiple titles might explain the earlier rumor reported in March that FFXIII was "practically close to being finished" (maybe only one of these games was nearing completion). Whatever the case may be, we're just happy that more than one not-so-Final-Fantasy will be hitting the next PlayStation in relatively rapid succession. RPG feasting: on the way.

[Via Joystiq]

Joystiq3 Final Fantasy XIII games; 2 just for PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 May 2006 22:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionannouncedbondingcharacterCompilation of FF VIICompilation of FFVIICompilation of Final Fantasy 7Compilation of Final Fantasy VIICompilationOfFfviiCompilationOfFinalFantasy7CompilationOfFinalFantasyViicompletecompletedcompletiondifferent titlesDifferentTitlesextremeextreme actionextreme action elementsExtremeActionExtremeActionElementsFFFF 12FF XIIFF XIIIFf12FF13FF7FFVIIFFXIIFFXIIIFinal FantasyFinal Fantasy 12Final Fantasy 13Final Fantasy 7Final Fantasy Agito XIIIFinal Fantasy Versus XIIIFinal Fantasy VIIFinal Fantasy XIIFinal Fantasy XIIIFinalFantasyFinalFantasy12FinalFantasy13FinalFantasy7FinalFantasyAgitoXiiiFinalFantasyVersusXiiiFinalFantasyViiFinalFantasyXiiFinalFantasyXiiifinishedfuturisticfuturistic worldFuturisticWorldgunhandsethandsetsheroinemobilemultipleNomuraOctoberplatformsPlayStationpre-E3press eventPressEventprimary themePrimaryThemePS2resist the worldResistTheWorldrole playing gamerole-playing gameRole-playingGameRolePlayingGameRPGrumorseriesspiky hairspiky hairedspiky-hairedSpikyHairSpikyHairedSquareSquare EnixSquareEnixswordTetsuya NomuraTetsuyaNomuratitletitlesuniverseMon, 08 May 2006 22:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox retail confidence sags; PS2 powers on]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/27/xbox-retail-confidence-sags-ps2-powers-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/27/xbox-retail-confidence-sags-ps2-powers-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/27/xbox-retail-confidence-sags-ps2-powers-on/#commentsFiled under: ,

Original Xbox Forza bundle currently stocked with retailersAn executive VP with Vivendi Europe feels that retail confidence in the original Xbox is flagging with MS needing to work with publishers "to help generate some impetus."

With Microsoft's primary and first-party focus squarely set on the next generation, the 360's predecessor may be feeling some neglect since saves aren't transferable and exclusive titles are elusive.

The Vivendi VP also noted that the PS2 still has a lot of life left in it, which we're inclined to believe with all the triple-A games still to come to the West, including Kingdom Hearts II, Okami, Final Fantasy XII, and God of War 2. You gotta love the PS3's 100% backward compatibility (or 99.9% BC, give or take a couple of titles). Emulation profiles can only do so much.

[Via Evil Avatar]

JoystiqXbox retail confidence sags; PS2 powers on originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 27 Mar 2006 13:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>100% backward compatibility100�ckwardCompatibility360emulation profilesEmulationProfilesexclusiveexecutive VPExecutiveVpFinal Fantasy XIIFinalFantasyXiifirst-party focusFirst-partyFocusGod of War 2GodOfWar2help generate some impetusHelpGenerateSomeImpetusKingdom Hearts IIKingdomHeartsIiOkamioriginal XboxOriginalXboxPS2retail confidenceRetailConfidencetransferabletriple-A gamesTriple-aGamesVivendi EuropeVivendiEuropeMon, 27 Mar 2006 13:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Famitsu fetes Final Fantasy XII with 40/40 review score]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/08/famitsu-fetes-final-fantasy-xii-with-40-40-review-score/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/08/famitsu-fetes-final-fantasy-xii-with-40-40-review-score/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/08/famitsu-fetes-final-fantasy-xii-with-40-40-review-score/#commentsFiled under: ,

Final Fantasy XII review scores from FamitsuFinal Fantasy XII may still be a ways off for Western gamers, but it's right on the verge of being released in Japan, having scored a perfect review from the folks at Famitsu.

It ain't easy earning a 40 out of 40 from Famitsu, a feat which only the following titles have duplicated up to now: The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, Soul Calibur (for Dreamcast), Vagrant Story, The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, and Nintendogs.

The score should hopefully reassure FF fans who've been shaken by all the game's delays in release and changes in personnel (as well as gameplay). At any rate, the title's localization for other territories should be well underway, even if the release dates outside of Japan haven't been officially announced yet.

[Thanks, Miyamoto]

Continue reading Famitsu fetes Final Fantasy XII with 40/40 review score

JoystiqFamitsu fetes Final Fantasy XII with 40/40 review score originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Mar 2006 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>40/40FamitsuFinal Fantasy XIIFinalFantasyXiiperfect scorePerfectScorePS2Square-EnixWed, 08 Mar 2006 04:00:00 EST