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[PSN Tuesday: Rayman 3 HD on PSN, Sumioni: Demon Arts for Vita]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/psn-tuesday-rayman-3-hd-on-psn-sumioni-demon-arts-for-vita/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/psn-tuesday-rayman-3-hd-on-psn-sumioni-demon-arts-for-vita/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/psn-tuesday-rayman-3-hd-on-psn-sumioni-demon-arts-for-vita/#comments PSN's Spring Fever hits its second week today with the launch of PSN's Rayman 3 HD for $10, 20 percent off for PlayStation Plus subscribers, and Warriors Orochi 3 for $50. Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine finally touches down on PS3 for $40, including the Elite Pass. For Vita, Sumioni: Demon Arts is available starting today at $20.

Final Fantasy Origins, Tactics and V-VIII from the PSone are 30 percent off for regular PSNers, and 50 percent off for Plusers (regular price $10). PSN's Spring Fever includes DLC for Resident Evil: Operation Raccoon City, Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning, Saints Row: The Third and more -- if all of this is a common symptom for the modern fever, we hope to catch it too.

JoystiqPSN Tuesday: Rayman 3 HD on PSN, Sumioni: Demon Arts for Vita originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Mar 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>final-fantasy-originsFinal-Fantasy-Tacticskingdoms-of-amalur-reckoningplaystationplaystation-vitaps3PSNpsn-tuesdayrayman-3-hoodlum-havoc-hdresident-evil-operation-raccoon-citysaints-row-the-thirdsumioni-demon-artsvitaWarhammer-40KTue, 20 Mar 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions hits iPhone this Thursday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/01/final-fantasy-tactics-the-war-of-the-lions-hits-iphone-this-thu/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/01/final-fantasy-tactics-the-war-of-the-lions-hits-iphone-this-thu/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/01/final-fantasy-tactics-the-war-of-the-lions-hits-iphone-this-thu/#comments
While it may have missed the "July...twen..blah..blah.." release window that was promised before, Square Enix will finally bring menus and moogles to mobiles this Thursday. That's when the strategic wizards-on-a-grid simulator, Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions, lands on Apple's iPhone.

It's important to note that the game will only be compatible with iPhone 4s and 3GSeses, and that iPad players will need to wait for the iPad-specific version, which should be launching around a month from Thursday. Historically, though, it's never been a good idea to count your chocobos before they've hatched.

JoystiqFinal Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions hits iPhone this Thursday originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 01 Aug 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chocoboFinal-FantasyFinal-Fantasy-TacticsFinal-Fantasy-Tactics-The-War-Of-The-Lionsiphone-3GSiPhone-4mobilemooglesSquare-EnixMon, 01 Aug 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Japan relief roundup: League of Legends and a special Final Fantasy Tactics]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/21/japan-relief-roundup-league-of-legends-and-a-special-final-fant/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/21/japan-relief-roundup-league-of-legends-and-a-special-final-fant/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/21/japan-relief-roundup-league-of-legends-and-a-special-final-fant/#comments Companies, organizations and individuals connected to the games industry continue to come forward with offers of support for the ongoing rescue and relief operations in Japan. We'll be collecting the latest opportunities to lend a hand in end-of-day roundups like this one as they're announced.

Head past the break for details on the today's happenings. If you'd prefer to donate to the efforts directly, you can always do so through the American Red Cross (www.redcross.org).

Continue reading Japan relief roundup: League of Legends and a special Final Fantasy Tactics

JoystiqJapan relief roundup: League of Legends and a special Final Fantasy Tactics originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 Mar 2011 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charitydisaster-relieffinal-fantasy-tacticsjapan-disaster-reliefjapan-relief-roundupleague-of-legendspcplay-for-japanplaystationps3riot-gamesMon, 21 Mar 2011 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix PSP games on sale today at Amazon]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/24/square-enix-psp-games-on-sale-today-at-amazon/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/24/square-enix-psp-games-on-sale-today-at-amazon/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/24/square-enix-psp-games-on-sale-today-at-amazon/#commentsThanks to Amazon, you can now enjoy Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII or a few other Square Enix PSP games without being plunged into a financial crisis as a result. The Deal of the Day offers Crisis Core, Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions, or Star Ocean: First Departure for just $12.99 each, down from the regular $19.99 price. That's many, many hours of gameplay for just a little money.

As the Deal of the Day, this offer will expire at the end of the day or when stock is depleted. You'll have another opportunity to buy War of the Lions cheaply in September, but this is your best shot at both getting it cheap and playing it with buttons.

JoystiqSquare Enix PSP games on sale today at Amazon originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 Jun 2010 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AmazonCrisis-Core-Final-Fantasy-7Deal-of-the-DayFinal-Fantasy-TacticsFinal-Fantasy-Tactics-The-War-Of-The-Lionsplaystationpspstar-ocean-first-departureThu, 24 Jun 2010 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PSN Thursday: Trying to find Trine, but happy in Arkham]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/17/psn-thursday-trying-to-find-trine-but-happy-in-arkham/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/17/psn-thursday-trying-to-find-trine-but-happy-in-arkham/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/17/psn-thursday-trying-to-find-trine-but-happy-in-arkham/#comments
Sorry, North America, the Europeans may be trying Trine, but the game isn't coming out this week. There's always the new free content for Arkham Asylum ... there, there, doesn't that just help make the Trine pain melt away? No? Well, there's the picture search game Interpol and the classic Final Fantasy Tactics, along with plenty of other content that may be of interest. Check it all out after the break.

Choose your platform to view the corresponding release list:

(Note: Continue past the break to view both release lists.)

Continue reading PSN Thursday: Trying to find Trine, but happy in Arkham

JoystiqPSN Thursday: Trying to find Trine, but happy in Arkham originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 Sep 2009 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batman-arkham-asylumfinal-fantasy-tacticsinterpolpsnpsn-storepsn-thursdaytomb-raider-3Thu, 17 Sep 2009 19:45:00 EST<![CDATA[ESRB rates Final Fantasy Tactics for PS3 and PSP]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/15/esrb-rates-final-fantasy-tactics-for-ps3-and-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/15/esrb-rates-final-fantasy-tactics-for-ps3-and-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/15/esrb-rates-final-fantasy-tactics-for-ps3-and-psp/#commentsSquare-Enix' E3 gift of a Final Fantasy VII PSN release was gratefully received, but if you'd asked us what PS1 games we'd like to see next from the publishers, Final Fantasy Tactics would be near the bottom of our list. Somewhere under Chocobo Racing and Ehrgeiz, to be exact. It's not that we dislike the game -- far from it -- it's just that we've played it recently on our PSPs with improved cutscenes and vastly superior translation. The idea of releasing the old "Spoony Bard" version on PSN instead of Final Fantasy VIII or IX doesn't exactly thrill us.

But it looks like that's what will be happening as the ESRB has rated the game for both the PS3 and PSP, meaning we could see it pop on the American PSN store at any moment. As for Europe? Don't bet on it -- the original PS1 version never made it across the Atlantic, so we don't expect the digital version to do so either.

JoystiqESRB rates Final Fantasy Tactics for PS3 and PSP originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 15 Jun 2009 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-tacticsps1square-enixMon, 15 Jun 2009 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Deal: Final Fantasy Tactics for $20]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/14/deal-final-fantasy-tactics-for-20/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/14/deal-final-fantasy-tactics-for-20/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/14/deal-final-fantasy-tactics-for-20/#commentsFiled under:

PSP had a number of excellent SRPG games to choose from during last year's holiday season. Final Fantasy Tacticsc: The War of the Lions was one of them. The quintessential PS1 game got a makeover when it moved to PSP, with beautiful new cutscenes and a whole bevvy of new quests. The game is now available for a 50% discount on amazon.com -- $20. If you missed out on this title last year, this may be a good time to jump.

[Via CAG]

JoystiqDeal: Final Fantasy Tactics for $20 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Jul 2008 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Final-Fantasy-TacticsFinal-Fantasy-Tactics-The-War-Of-The-LionsRPGSquare-EnixStrategyTOSEMon, 14 Jul 2008 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[iPod's new Square Enix SRPG better than FFTA2?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/08/ipods-new-square-enix-srpg-better-than-ffta2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/08/ipods-new-square-enix-srpg-better-than-ffta2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/08/ipods-new-square-enix-srpg-better-than-ffta2/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Out of nowhere, Square Enix has simultaneously announced and released Song Summoner: The Unsung Heroes, a new SRPG exclusive for the iPod challenging players to rescue their brother from the Mechanical Militia.

The game has you controlling Ziggy, a Conductor that can create Tune Trooper warriors out of your iPod's music tracks, similar to Monster Rancher's CD-generated creatures. Further integrating your All-4-One MP3s, Song Summoner will boost the "groove level" of your Tune Troopers every time you listen to the songs that birthed the units. Now you actually have an excuse for listening to "I Swear" several dozen times a day!

So, why are we talking about this iPod game on DS Fanboy? We thought it would be interesting to compare this new title against the other portable strategy RPG Square Enix recently released (in the U.S.), Final Fantasy Tactics A2: Grimoire of the Rift.

As we're sure you'll let us know, there are some features that Song Summoner can't compete with, such as FFTA2's 400+ quests and other multitudinous offerings, but, for the purpose of outlining what publishers can learn from a game release such as this, let's look at the five points in which the iPod title outshines the DS epic.

Continue reading iPod's new Square Enix SRPG better than FFTA2?

JoystiqiPod's new Square Enix SRPG better than FFTA2? originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 Jul 2008 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>digital-distributionfftaffta2final-fantasy-tacticsipoditunesjoystiqfeaturessong-summonersquare-enixsrpgthe-unsung-heroesTue, 08 Jul 2008 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DS releases for the week of June 23rd]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/ds-releases-for-the-week-of-june-23rd/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/ds-releases-for-the-week-of-june-23rd/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/ds-releases-for-the-week-of-june-23rd/#commentsFiled under:

DS gamers around world have reason to rejoice this week. Why? There are loads of games a-coming! In fact, it's a big week for all platforms, but DS owners have reason to be particularly pleased. Whether you're going to be grinding away in Final Fantasy Tactics A2, or getting your groove on with a portable Guitar Hero, we're willing to bet there's something coming that will inspire a little wallet-opening.
  • American Girl: Kit Mystery Challenge
  • Cake Mania 2
  • Code Lyoko: Fall of X.A.N.A.
  • Final Fantasy Tactics A2: Grimoire of the Rift
  • Gourmet Chef
  • Guitar Hero: On Tour
  • Mega Man Star Force 2: Zerker x Ninja
  • Mega Man Star Force 2: Zerker x Saurian
  • Midnight Play! Pack
  • My Weight Loss Coach
  • Top Spin 3
  • Wall-E
Check out the releases for the other major markets after the break!

Continue reading DS releases for the week of June 23rd

JoystiqDS releases for the week of June 23rd originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Jun 2008 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cake-mania-2code-lyokoffta2final-fantasy-tacticsguitar-hero-on-tourmega-manmy-weight-loss-coachreleasestop-spin-3wall-eMon, 23 Jun 2008 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Promotional Consideration: Tactical advertisements]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/22/promotional-consideration-tactical-advertisements/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/22/promotional-consideration-tactical-advertisements/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/22/promotional-consideration-tactical-advertisements/#commentsFiled under: ,



Did you forget that Final Fantasy Tactics A2: Grimoire of the Rift ships in North America this week? We wouldn't be surprised if you did, as, aside from two magazine advertisements, Square Enix hasn't done much to promote the SRPG sequel.

In fact, unless we've missed something, the only two handheld game commercials Square Enix has aired in the U.S. since the GBA were for the Final Fantasy III remake and Dragon Quest Monsters: Joker -- Mario Hoops 3-on-3 doesn't count. That's a shame considering how creative the original Final Fantasy Tactics Advance commercial was!

Bring your mages, ninjas, and gunners past the break for the GBA clip and the two FFTA2 magazine pieces we mentioned above!

Continue reading Promotional Consideration: Tactical advertisements

JoystiqPromotional Consideration: Tactical advertisements originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 22 Jun 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adadsadvertisingcommercialfftaffta2final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-tacticsgrimoire-of-the-riftivalice-alliancesquare-enixsrpgSun, 22 Jun 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Train for next week's release with FFTA2 screens]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/train-for-next-weeks-release-with-ffta2-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/train-for-next-weeks-release-with-ffta2-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/train-for-next-weeks-release-with-ffta2-screens/#commentsFiled under:

You know a game is epic when the publisher can release dozens of screens -- dozens -- and you still feel as though you're only getting the barest glimpse of the depth that awaits. We've seen so much of Final Fantasy Tactics A2: Grimoire of the Rift, from videos to screens, and previews of jobs to boot, and none of that is even a patch on the hours of gameplay that awaits. For once, we're not even upset about the Square Enix "tax" that elevates the price of their games; here, we'll know where those extra dollars went. Sometime next year, we might have finally finished everything there is to finish.

Maybe.

If we're lucky.


[Via press release]

JoystiqTrain for next week's release with FFTA2 screens originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Jun 2008 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ffta2final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-tacticsfinal-fantasy-tactics-a2grimoire-of-the-riftsquare-enixsrpgFri, 20 Jun 2008 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Three for two at Toys R Us next week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/17/three-for-two-at-toys-r-us-next-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/17/three-for-two-at-toys-r-us-next-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/17/three-for-two-at-toys-r-us-next-week/#commentsFiled under:

Toys R Us is holding its annual "buy two, get one free" DS promotion again starting on Sunday the 22nd, according to the latest weekly ad (as transcribed by CAG denizens). It's a great time for it, too: people getting Guitar Hero On Tour should be able to defray some of the cost by bundling it with two other games. Of course, even if you don't care about On Tour, you can get a great deal on some DS games. We just focused on that because it's new and it's so expensive that any other DS game comes in at an "equal or lesser value."

Guitar Hero is expensive enough that, under the right conditions (purchasing two Square Enix games along with it), you could get a free Square Enix game! Final Fantasy Tactics A2 comes out next week, for example -- $90 for Guitar Hero, FFTA2, and The World Ends with You is a relatively non-terrible deal.

[Via CAG]

JoystiqThree for two at Toys R Us next week originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Jun 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-tacticsguitar-herothe-world-ends-with-youtoys-r-usTue, 17 Jun 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Friday Video: Professions of the Rift]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/13/friday-video-professions-of-the-rift/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/13/friday-video-professions-of-the-rift/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/13/friday-video-professions-of-the-rift/#commentsFiled under: ,


With our economy in its current dwindling state and the unemployment rate rising, it's nice to hear that some people are still able to find jobs, even if they're fictional jobs for fictional members of a fictional race existing in a fictional game world.

Square Enix has released several short video clips introducing five of Final Fantasy Tactics A2: Grimoire of the Rifts' new jobs -- Chocobo Knight, Seer, Berserker, Geomancer, and Arcanist (above). They're not nearly as interesting as the "rejected FFTA2 professions" we featured, but these jobs are at least a little bit more real than the ones we made up.

JoystiqFriday Video: Professions of the Rift originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Jun 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcanistbeserkerchocobo-knightfftaffta2final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-tacticsgeomancergrimoire-of-the-riftjobseersquare-enixsrpgFri, 13 Jun 2008 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Get a job: Final Fantasy Tactics A2 preview]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/11/get-a-job-final-fantasy-tactics-a2-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/11/get-a-job-final-fantasy-tactics-a2-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/11/get-a-job-final-fantasy-tactics-a2-preview/#commentsFiled under: ,

Chocobo Knights and Geomancers! If those words make your heart go a-flutter, it's probably a good time to check in with GameSpy's preview of some of the more inaccessible jobs in Final Fantasy Tactics Advance 2: Grimoire of the Rift. Sure, the game comes out later this month, but according to them, you're going to be playing for a long, long time before you see any of these jobs.

Check out five of the jobs, complete with super cute outfits and videos, at the source ... and work your way into our newly-expanded gallery for an explosion of English-language screenshots sure to whet your appetite for the game's upcoming release.


[Via GoNintendo]

JoystiqGet a job: Final Fantasy Tactics A2 preview originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Jun 2008 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ffta2final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-tacticsgrimoire-of-the-riftsquare-enixsrpgWed, 11 Jun 2008 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Etrian Odyssey, FFTA2 developers want to speak with you]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/etrian-odyssey-ffta2-developers-want-to-speak-with-you/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/etrian-odyssey-ffta2-developers-want-to-speak-with-you/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/etrian-odyssey-ffta2-developers-want-to-speak-with-you/#commentsFiled under: ,

Even if it is really all about plugging their products, we love it when game developers choose to communicate directly with us, the dirty, huddled masses, and today has brought news of two studios who are inviting questions from gamers.

First up is Atlus, or more specifically Nich Maragos, Atlus USA Editor and Project Lead for both of the Etrian Odyssey games. Between now and June 17th, he'll be answering as many of your Etrian-related queries as he can here. Maragos is accepting questions about either of the two DS games, perhaps to accommodate for PAL region players, who only just received the first game last Friday. Ask him why Europe had to wait so long, if you like. Go on, do it.

Next in line is the entire development team for Final Fantasy Tactics A2: Grimoire of the Rift, who are clearly pretty confident that they'll be receiving an absolute avalanche of questions, as they're doing this as a group. You'll have to be a signed-up Square Enix member, though, which will mean having to fill in this form.

Ask Atlus!
Ask Square Enix!



[Via Go Nintendo and NeoGAF]

JoystiqEtrian Odyssey, FFTA2 developers want to speak with you originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Jun 2008 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlusdungeondungeon-crawleretrian-odysseyetrian-odyssey-2etrian-odyssey-iiffta2final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-tacticsgrimoire-of-the-riftheroes-of-lagaardrpgsquare-enixsrpgTue, 10 Jun 2008 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Snippets of FFTA2 gameplay show some tactics]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/22/snippets-of-ffta2-gameplay-show-some-tactics/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/22/snippets-of-ffta2-gameplay-show-some-tactics/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/22/snippets-of-ffta2-gameplay-show-some-tactics/#commentsFiled under:


While we're waiting for Final Fantasy Tactics A2: Grimoire of the Rift to release (very soon), we're pretty much powerless to do much but look at screens and websites. Now, though, we can at least immerse ourselves in some videos of the upcoming game. Unfortunately, most of them are only short (and tiny) clips teasing the battle system, but it's still nice to get a sense of what the gameplay will entail.

Above, the video delves into a part of the story, although put out of context it's not very telling. After the break, you can watch a few forty-second battle clips, showing three different characters using their attacks, skills, or summons.

Gallery: FF Tactics A2

Continue reading Snippets of FFTA2 gameplay show some tactics

JoystiqSnippets of FFTA2 gameplay show some tactics originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 22 May 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ffta2final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-tacticsfinal-fantasy-tactics-advance-2grimoire-of-the-riftsquare-enixsqueenixsrpgThu, 22 May 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[FF Tactics Advances on Europe this June]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/19/ff-tactics-advances-on-europe-this-june/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/19/ff-tactics-advances-on-europe-this-june/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/19/ff-tactics-advances-on-europe-this-june/#commentsFiled under:

There's simply no in-between when it comes to PAL localizations of Square Enix games: they either take absolutely ages to arrive, or no time at all. Happily, Final Fantasy Tactics Advance 2: Grimoire of the Rift will fall into the latter category, with the game appearing across Europe on June 27th, three days after its U.S. debut. We're attaching another gold star to your record, Square! Nintendo and every other company out there who puts Euro gamers through the mill far too frequently: take note!

If you're still too impatient to wait another five weeks, you may want to keep your thumbs and brain busy with a close alternative -- and conveniently enough, we have a whole bunch of recommendations for you to try out.


[Via press release]

JoystiqFF Tactics Advances on Europe this June originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 May 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ffta2final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-tacticsgrimoire-of-the-riftsquare-enixsquareenixsrpgMon, 19 May 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Promotional Consideration: Moons, Zombies, Dodgeballs, and Tactics]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/04/promotional-consideration-moons-zombies-dodgeballs-and-tacti/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/04/promotional-consideration-moons-zombies-dodgeballs-and-tacti/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/04/promotional-consideration-moons-zombies-dodgeballs-and-tacti/#commentsFiled under: ,



Aside from its preview page tease and Time Hollow's localization, there wasn't much in the way of exclusive DS news in this month's Nintendo Power, at least compared to what we've seen in recent issues.

Paging through the magazine, however, we spotted at least two advertisements that we wanted to share with you. As we were tearing them out to throw into our scanner, we thought, "Why not post all of the other DS ads (and the cover)?" Join us past the break for the scanned pages!

Continue reading Promotional Consideration: Moons, Zombies, Dodgeballs, and Tactics

JoystiqPromotional Consideration: Moons, Zombies, Dodgeballs, and Tactics originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 04 May 2008 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisementaerosmithaksysarc-system-worksdodgeballffta2final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-tacticsgrimoire-of-the-riftharvest-moonignition-entertainmentinlight-entertainmentmagazinemarvelous-interactivenatsumenintendo-powerplatformersquare-enixsrpgsuper-dodgeball-brawlersteenage-zombiesSun, 04 May 2008 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix confirms awesome trio for Europe [update 2]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/27/square-confirms-awesome-trio-of-titles-for-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/27/square-confirms-awesome-trio-of-titles-for-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/27/square-confirms-awesome-trio-of-titles-for-europe/#commentsFiled under:

Update 2: And now any mention of the paddle peripheral has disappeared again from our press release! We're confused as can be at the moment, but we're contacting Square Enix for clarification ... now. Stay tuned!

Update: Silly us, we totally overlooked some critical parts of the press release. It mentions an "optional paddle controller" for Arkanoid DS, which causes us to think the game could release in a bundle including the peripheral. We've also included the full press release past the post break.

Oh, happy days!

Square Enix just confirmed a tremendous triumvirate of releases for Europe, with Space Invaders Extreme, Arkanoid, and Final Fantasy Tactics A2: Grimoire of the Rift all due in the region this summer.

Fantastic news, but there are two questions we urgently need answering. One: will the two Taito titles enjoy the same budget price that looks likely for the U.S. release? And two: will we be getting the wonderful paddle controller for said games? We can't think of any reason why we shouldn't receive such a peripheral, but the lack of an announcement is concerning.



[Via press release]

Continue reading Square Enix confirms awesome trio for Europe [update 2]

JoystiqSquare Enix confirms awesome trio for Europe [update 2] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 27 Mar 2008 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkanoideuropeffta2final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-tacticsremakeretroshmupshooterspace-invaders-extremesquare-enixsrpgtaitoThu, 27 Mar 2008 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Summer strategy: FFTA2 due June 24th]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/19/summer-strategy-ffta2-due-june-24th/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/19/summer-strategy-ffta2-due-june-24th/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/19/summer-strategy-ffta2-due-june-24th/#commentsFiled under:



Finally! We were beginning to think that Square-Enix would never announce its stateside release date for Final Fantasy Tactics A2: Grimoire of the Rift, keeping localized copies of the SRPG out of our reach to punish us for poor Front Mission sales. Surprisingly, FFTA2 will hit stores as soon as June 24th, usually a slow period for video game releases.

The North American version has been enhanced to improve its touchscreen controls, one of several complaints we've listed about the game. Players should be able to now command their characters and navigate FFTA2's menus using only the stylus, as should be the standard for SRPGs on the DS. This comes in addition to the sequel's new classes, jobs, and clan system. Hit the gallery below for four new screenshots from the English-translated game.


See also: Final Fantasy Tactics A2 gets confirmed for North America

[Via press release]

JoystiqSummer strategy: FFTA2 due June 24th originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 Mar 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ffta2final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-tacticssquare-enixsrpgWed, 19 Mar 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy Tactics A2 gets confirmed for North America]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/11/final-fantasy-tactics-a2-gets-confirmed-for-north-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/11/final-fantasy-tactics-a2-gets-confirmed-for-north-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/11/final-fantasy-tactics-a2-gets-confirmed-for-north-america/#commentsFiled under:


Well, what do you know. We were only just writing about Square Enix localizations, and now the news has spread that Final Fantasy Tactics A2: Grimoire of the Rift is headed to North America. According to Game Informer, the projected release date isn't too far off, and the strategy game will be coming to American shores this summer.

We knew this game would get here eventually, but we can relax now that we really know. In case you thought you might actually get outdoors and be active this summer, though, this announcement might have just caused a rift in your plans.

[Via GoNintendo]

JoystiqFinal Fantasy Tactics A2 gets confirmed for North America originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Mar 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ffta2final-fantasy-tacticsgrimoire-of-the-riftsquare-enixsrpgstrategyTue, 11 Mar 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[2008's Biggest Blips: Final Fantasy Tactics A2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/28/2008s-biggest-blips-final-fantasy-tactics-a2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/28/2008s-biggest-blips-final-fantasy-tactics-a2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/28/2008s-biggest-blips-final-fantasy-tactics-a2/#commentsFiled under:



Developer: Square Enix
Publisher: Square Enix
Release: TBA

What separates Final Fantasy Tactics Advance from most other handheld SRPGS? Its level of polish. As with the original Final Fantasy Tactics game for the PlayStation, Square Enix put its talents and resources behind FFTA's soundtrack, character designs, and solid mechanics. Even today, five years later, the GBA title's presentation outclasses releases like Hoshigami Remix and Luminous Arc.

Final Fantasy Tactics A2: Grimoire of the Rift continues that high-budget, high-quality tradition. While Square Enix hasn't yet announced a US release date, and we're disappointed about the the game's lack of both online and offline multiplayer features, we're excited about all the sequel's additions -- 400 missions, Revenant Wings-esque item synthesis, a reworked law system, bigger enemies, an expanded map with distributed "area maps," and a ton of new job classes.

FFTA2 now boasts over 45+ different professions, ranging from Chocobo Knights (Chocobo-riding Moogles) to Bastards (a surly lot). Just as interesting as the vocations included are the ones that were cut from the final release due to time constraints or continuity issues. We came across their design documents while sifting through Square Enix's dumpster for discarded figurines, and we've posted the never-seen-before job classes right here for you!

Chimney Sweep

Action Ability
  • sweeps your chimney
  • walks around covered in soot
Combo Ability
  • after years of choking on grit and dust, dies an early death due to cancer caused by inhaling carcinogenic chemicals in the soot

Real World Roommate

Action Ability
  • accuses you of disrespectin' her
Reaction Ability
  • refuses to accept any apologies or assurances that you had no intention of disrespectin' her
Support Ability
  • tells everyone in the house that you're disrespectin' her

Damn Cargo Shorts-Wearin' Kids

Action Ability
  • wears those damn cargo shorts every day
  • has too many pockets for their own good
Support Ability
  • perpetuates the misbelief that wearing camo anything is acceptable fashion (e.g. camo cargo shorts)

Gangsta Rapper, Circa Early-to-Mid 90s

Action Ability
  • checks himself before he wrecks himself ('cause shotgun bullets are bad for his health)
  • is the capital S oh yes so fresh N double O P -- D O double G Y D O double G, ya see
Reaction Ability
  • calls his crew while you call your crew so you can rendezvous at the bar around two
Combo Ability
  • is better than your favorite rapper

Overbearing Asian Mother

Action Ability
  • belittles any and every measure you take to establish yourself as an individual
Reaction Ability
  • repeatedly insists that you should've become a doctor or a lawyer, like your successful cousins, instead of studying "computer"
Support Ability
  • leaves you with crippling feelings of inadequacy and social ineptitude

Cute Friend Whom You Have a Crush On

Action Ability
  • hair smells of strawberries, sunshine, and summer possibilities
  • is a kindred spirit; totally on the same wavelength as you
Reaction Ability
  • looks at you pityingly when you ask her out
  • just wants to be friends
  • isn't ready to date anyone right now
Combo Ability
  • sleeps with four other dudes -- simultaneously! -- the following week

ALF

Action Ability


Apollo Justice
 Back Next, on BSI: Troi

Joystiq2008's Biggest Blips: Final Fantasy Tactics A2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Jan 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>08blipsalfasian-mothercargo-shortsffta2final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-tacticsgrimoire-of-the-riftivalice-alliancerapreal-worldsquare-enixsquareenixsrpgMon, 28 Jan 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy Tactics' secret position as a bestseller]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/06/final-fantasy-tactics-secret-position-as-a-bestseller/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/06/final-fantasy-tactics-secret-position-as-a-bestseller/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/06/final-fantasy-tactics-secret-position-as-a-bestseller/#commentsFiled under:


Handheld games rarely burn up the charts. However, in a crowded month of games like Guitar Hero III, Halo 3, and The Orange Box, Square Enix's PSP remake of Final Fantasy Tactics managed to churn out about 100,000 copies sold in the month of October. Certainly, the launch of the redesigned PSP helped sales of the title. But, it managed to beat out other anticipated PSP titles, such as Star Wars Battlefront: Renegade Squadron and Castlevania: The Dracula X Chronicles, according to GameDaily BIZ.

While The War of the Lions enjoys some success in the States, its true victory was in Japan, where a significant marketing campaign (with television ads) helped propel the game to a number one position, selling over 242,000 copies in the territory. The total sales of the game should provide enough proof that the PSP and Square Enix work perfectly together. It'll be interesting to see if Crisis Core can make a bigger splash when it eventually gets released in the States.

JoystiqFinal Fantasy Tactics' secret position as a bestseller originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Dec 2007 12:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fftfinal-fantasy-tacticssalesThu, 06 Dec 2007 12:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Fans equip FFTA2 editor for translation project]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/20/fans-equip-ffta2-editor-for-translation-project/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/20/fans-equip-ffta2-editor-for-translation-project/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/20/fans-equip-ffta2-editor-for-translation-project/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Translating Final Fantasy Tactics A2: Grimoire of the Rift just became serious business, as the GBAtemp community has actually built an application around the project to streamline its script-editing process. With this sort of dedication and this new specialized editor, it won't be long before the team releases an English translation patch for, uh, people with pirated ROMs.

Though an official FFTA2 localization seems certain, Square Enix has yet to announce any plans to bring the SRPG stateside. Why not settle for Front Mission DS in the meantime?

JoystiqFans equip FFTA2 editor for translation project originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Nov 2007 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fan-translationffta2final-fantasy-tacticsgrimoire-of-the-riftivalice-allianceromsquare-enixsquareenixsrpgTue, 20 Nov 2007 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[FFTA2 fan translation project underway]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/24/ffta2-fan-translation-project-underway/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/24/ffta2-fan-translation-project-underway/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/24/ffta2-fan-translation-project-underway/#commentsFiled under: ,



Though Final Fantasy Tactics A2: Grimoire of the Rift doesn't officially hit Japanese stores until tomorrow, forumers at the GBAtemp community have already managed to procure a copy and are working on translating its squiggly words. The motivated group has deciphered an impressive amount of cutscene conversations and menu items, overlaying shots from the SRPG with English text.

Even in its early state, this picture guide will be a huge boon to interested importers without any Japanese reading skills. Considering that Square Enix has yet to announce its plans for bringing Final Fantasy Tactics A2 to the states, this fan-backed effort may be the best way to play the game for a while.

JoystiqFFTA2 fan translation project underway originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Oct 2007 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fan-translationffta2final-fantasy-tacticsfinal-fantasy-tactics-a2grimoire-of-the-riftivalice-alliancesquare-enixsquareenixsrpgWed, 24 Oct 2007 18:40:00 EST<![CDATA[PSP Fanboy review: Final Fantasy Tactics]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/14/psp-fanboy-review-final-fantasy-tactics/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/14/psp-fanboy-review-final-fantasy-tactics/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/14/psp-fanboy-review-final-fantasy-tactics/#commentsFiled under: ,

Let's do some time travel. I'm going to take you back ten years to 1997 when, in Japan, two games were released by Square on an underdog system called the PS1. These titles, Final Fantasy VII and Final Fantasy Tactics have since become critically regarded as two of the best games on Sony's fledgling console. And while Final Fantasy VII has enjoyed the sort of commercial success normally attributed to rockstars, sadly Tactics was hideously overshadowed by its prettier brother and so this gem was never received by the consumers as it should've done. Shame on you Americans! (Though because of this, Europeans never even saw the game released on our shelves.) Fast forward to 2007 and, almost by means of apology, Square Enix has allowed Europe access to the PSP version of this game, and a full week before the US at that! That'll teach you.

While it's easy to view Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions as a mere re-release, the game has retained most of the same gameplay elements as its PS1 counterpart, as well as added a completely new translation, gorgeously animated cutscenes, extra classes, characters and even a multiplayer feature. But even with all that, the game is still a 10 year old tactical RPG. Does it still stand up as a great title a decade on?

Continue reading PSP Fanboy review: Final Fantasy Tactics

JoystiqPSP Fanboy review: Final Fantasy Tactics originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 14 Oct 2007 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-tacticsjoystiqfeaturesreviewSun, 14 Oct 2007 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The heroes and damsels of Final Fantasy Tactics]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/03/the-heroes-and-damsels-of-final-fantasy-tactics/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/03/the-heroes-and-damsels-of-final-fantasy-tactics/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/03/the-heroes-and-damsels-of-final-fantasy-tactics/#commentsFiled under:


You should know by now, but Final Fantasy Tactics is coming out next week. If, for some reason, you need a primer of the characters in the game, Games Radar has you covered. They have bios of all the major players in the game, including the bonus characters, like Cloud Strife from Final Fantasy VII and Balthier from Final Fantasy XII. The details aren't too spoiler-ish, and help satiate us while we wait for the game's impending release.

JoystiqThe heroes and damsels of Final Fantasy Tactics originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Oct 2007 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fftfinal-fantasy-tacticsgames-radarWed, 03 Oct 2007 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy Tactics statues being given away]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/02/final-fantasy-tactics-statues-being-given-away/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/02/final-fantasy-tactics-statues-being-given-away/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/02/final-fantasy-tactics-statues-being-given-away/#commentsFiled under:


And not by us. We're a little jealous of Games Radar. Somehow, they've secured these awesome statues from Final Fantasy Tactics. But hey, we want the best for you: we're telling you to got Games Radar and enter their contest. Don't worry, we'll still be here, waiting for you.

All that's needed is a bit of creativity. They want you to look at a screenshot and write the most clever caption you can think of. Shouldn't be too hard for you, right? Good luck! (And hopefully, our upcoming giveaways will beat Games Radar's!)

JoystiqFinal Fantasy Tactics statues being given away originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>final-fantasy-tacticsgames-radarTue, 02 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[North America's Final Fantasy Tactics website opens]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/30/north-americas-final-fantasy-tactics-website-opens/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/30/north-americas-final-fantasy-tactics-website-opens/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/30/north-americas-final-fantasy-tactics-website-opens/#commentsFiled under:


Square Enix has just opened the North American Final Fantasy Tactics website, and it's loaded with all sorts of goodies. Not only can you read all about the game's multitude of jobs, but you can also see the new content Square Enix is throwing our way in this remake. Also, be sure to check out the great artwork of Akihiko Yoshida that fills the website; it's quite a feast for the eyes.

JoystiqNorth America's Final Fantasy Tactics website opens originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 30 Sep 2007 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-tacticsSun, 30 Sep 2007 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy Tactics: The Brave Zodiac Story trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/28/final-fantasy-tactics-the-brave-zodiac-story-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/28/final-fantasy-tactics-the-brave-zodiac-story-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/28/final-fantasy-tactics-the-brave-zodiac-story-trailer/#commentsFiled under: ,

This overly-produced trailer from Square Enix highlights the upcoming English-dubbed cutscenes of Final Fantasy Tactics. Unlike the Japanese original, voice acting adds a lot of depth to the storytelling. But, that's not the only improvement they've made to the US version. A better framerate makes the US version the clearly better choice for FF fans. Who wants to bet that Japan receives yet another "Internation Version" re-release of this game?

JoystiqFinal Fantasy Tactics: The Brave Zodiac Story trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 28 Sep 2007 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fftfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-tacticsFri, 28 Sep 2007 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[The summons of Final Fantasy Tactics]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/25/the-summons-of-final-fantasy-tactics/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/25/the-summons-of-final-fantasy-tactics/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/25/the-summons-of-final-fantasy-tactics/#commentsFiled under:


Click to see high-res version.

There's one thing you can always count on from a Final Fantasy game: pretty art. The upcoming Final Fantasy Tactics game for PSP is filled with tons of creatures and summons -- and we have some concept art to share with you. Browse through our gallery and see how some of these creatures come to life in the game.

JoystiqThe summons of Final Fantasy Tactics originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 25 Sep 2007 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-tacticsTue, 25 Sep 2007 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Casting magic in Final Fantasy Tactics]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/07/casting-magic-in-final-fantasy-tactics/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/07/casting-magic-in-final-fantasy-tactics/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/07/casting-magic-in-final-fantasy-tactics/#commentsFiled under: ,

In addition to new screenshots and art, Square Enix released a handful of new gameplay videos from its upcoming War of the Lions game. In these brief clips, you'll see how some of the powerful spells at your disposal. Unlike the Japanese release, the game features a better framerate, making this the single best version of Final Fantasy Tactics you can get anywhere.

Continue reading Casting magic in Final Fantasy Tactics

JoystiqCasting magic in Final Fantasy Tactics originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 07 Sep 2007 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Final-Fantasy-TacticsFinal-Fantasy-Tactics-The-War-Of-The-LionsRPGSquare-EnixStrategyTOSEFri, 07 Sep 2007 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Please enjoy new Final Fantasy Tactics art]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/07/please-enjoy-new-final-fantasy-tactics-art/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/07/please-enjoy-new-final-fantasy-tactics-art/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/07/please-enjoy-new-final-fantasy-tactics-art/#commentsFiled under:


Click for high-resolution image.

Jeanne d'Arc and Disgaea aren't the only SRPGs that will take residence on the PSP. A new PSP-enhanced version of Final Fantasy Tactics, called The War of the Lions, will be available nationwide October 9th. The War of the Lions divide the land of Ivalice in two. The story is told through the eyes of two men as they're entrapped by the war: Delita Heiral and Ramza Beoulve.

New to the PSP version is a new job class: the Onion Knight. In addition, the game will be enhanced with new 16:9 graphics, a brand new translation and fully voiced anime cutscenes (the Japanese version did not feature any VA). A new multiplayer function allows you to battle other players, or play cooperatively against the AI.

Check out the huge media blowout we secured for you. You'll find new art, screenshots are more in our updated gallery.

JoystiqPlease enjoy new Final Fantasy Tactics art originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 07 Sep 2007 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Final-Fantasy-TacticsFinal-Fantasy-Tactics-The-War-Of-The-LionsRPGSquare-EnixStrategyTOSEFri, 07 Sep 2007 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasty Tactics issues addressed in US release]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/25/final-fantasty-tactics-issues-addressed-in-us-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/25/final-fantasty-tactics-issues-addressed-in-us-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/25/final-fantasty-tactics-issues-addressed-in-us-release/#commentsFiled under:

If you played the original PlayStation version of Final Fantasy Tactics, you're probably used to the few small technical issues of the game (especially the cheap and overpowered Orlandu Durai ... T.G. Cid, not to mention the Calculator class). The localized US version of the PSP remake address multiple issues that were left open in the now seemingly half-finished Japanese release.

Slowdown has been mostly eliminated -- this plagued the Japanese version and a heck of a lot of other PSP titles as well. We know the game has been fully voiced now, but we're kind of disappointed to see the introspective text on a black background get removed. How else will we know Ramza's innermost thoughts and feelings? An issue still remaining is the so-called "flattening" of the musical score, but we can probably get over that.

New features we'll at least mention are the multiplayer aspects where you can face off against a buddy or team up and explore special dungeons with set missions. These are ad-hoc only; no wireless online fun. Two new characters are made available to us: Luso from Final Fantasy Tactics Advance 2 and Balthier from Final Fantasy XII. Don't ask how. Two new classes, Dark Knight and Onion Knight, are also available. The most important change is the complete re-translation of the text. It now sounds like something straight out of Vagrant Story or Final Fantasy XII, as it should. We can't wait to play one of our favorite classics again, especially since it sounds like the experience has been fleshed out into an almost completely new game.

JoystiqFinal Fantasty Tactics issues addressed in US release originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 25 Aug 2007 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Final-Fantasy-TacticsFinal-Fantasy-Tactics-The-War-Of-The-LionsRPGSquare-EnixStrategyTOSESat, 25 Aug 2007 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSP Fanboy Theatre: Volume 28]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/04/psp-fanboy-theatre-volume-28/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/04/psp-fanboy-theatre-volume-28/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/04/psp-fanboy-theatre-volume-28/#commentsFiled under:

Finally, after a long E3-related hiatus, PSP Fanboy Theatre is back with an all new edition. Every weekend, PSP owners can download files wirelessly via m.pspfanboy.com.

Instructions: Save all movie and thumbnail files to the VIDEO folder. These high resolution 480x272 videos require firmware 3.30 or above. (Note: OE custom firmware will also play these videos.)

New for PSP: Get selected videos delivered automatically to your PSP via our new RSS feed.


Resident Evil 5 [PS3, 360]
Download MP4 (20.2MB) | Download JPG

The following videos are featured after the break: Bladestorm (PS3, 360), Call of Duty 4 (PS3, 360), Dynasty Warriors 6 (PS3, 360), Final Fantasy Tactics (PSP), High Velocity Bowling (PSN)

Continue reading PSP Fanboy Theatre: Volume 28

JoystiqPSP Fanboy Theatre: Volume 28 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 04 Aug 2007 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bladestormcallofduty4dynastywarriors6Final-Fantasy-TacticsFinal-Fantasy-Tactics-The-War-Of-The-Lionshighvelocitybowlingresidentevil5RPGSquare-EnixStrategytheatreTOSESat, 04 Aug 2007 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[English dub of Final Fantasy Tactics is stellar]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/02/english-dub-of-final-fantasy-tactics-is-stellar/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/02/english-dub-of-final-fantasy-tactics-is-stellar/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/02/english-dub-of-final-fantasy-tactics-is-stellar/#commentsFiled under: ,

Remember the incredible voice acting and presentation of Final Fantasy XII? Well, it looks like PSP's upcoming Final Fantasy Tactics is getting the same high-quality treatment as its other Ivalice Alliance brethren. The voice acting is superb, and the dialogue is far away from the original, stilted PS1 translation. Bravo, Square Enix! [Update: English language screenshots and downloadable MP4 file added.]

Download MP4 for PSP

JoystiqEnglish dub of Final Fantasy Tactics is stellar originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Aug 2007 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Final-Fantasy-TacticsFinal-Fantasy-Tactics-The-War-Of-The-LionsRPGSquare-EnixStrategyTOSEThu, 02 Aug 2007 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy Tactics boxart looks strangely familiar]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/05/final-fantasy-tactics-boxart-looks-strangely-familiar/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/05/final-fantasy-tactics-boxart-looks-strangely-familiar/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/05/final-fantasy-tactics-boxart-looks-strangely-familiar/#commentsFiled under:

Remember the Final Fantasy I and II boxart for America? Looked gorgeous, right? Well the Japanese boxart for Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions on the PSP had a similar reaction from fans. Well you can all rest easy, as it seems the US (and the UK, presumably, due to its simultaneous release) boxes will be sporting a very similar design.

While the image used on the box is the same for both territories, certain elements such as the title of the game have changed position. You can see the final design for the US box on the right, but check out out Siliconera for a side-by-side comparison with the JP art. Does it look pretty enough for you all?

[Thanks Spencer!]

JoystiqFinal Fantasy Tactics boxart looks strangely familiar originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Jul 2007 19:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boxartFinal-Fantasy-TacticsFinal-Fantasy-Tactics-The-War-Of-The-LionsRPGSquare-EnixStrategyTOSEThu, 05 Jul 2007 19:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix in your pocket: PSP edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/square-enix-in-your-pocket-psp-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/square-enix-in-your-pocket-psp-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/square-enix-in-your-pocket-psp-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

This week marks the release of the Final Fantasy remake on Sony PSP, the first Square Enix title to make it to the US. The RPG powerhouse showed a multitude of appetizing titles coming to the portable earlier this summer at their massive party at Tokyo's Makuhari Messe.

Long-time Square Enix fans will find yourselves either dismayed or curiously nostalgic (probably a bit of both) by the sheer number of enhanced remakes -- five of the seven PSP titles are ghosts from the company's past with upgraded visuals and new content. What's left is a brawler with an assortment of fighters from the Final Fantasy universe and a long-in-development (though visually impressive) extension of the Final Fantasy VII lore.

Take a gander at the upcoming games after the break.

Continue reading Square Enix in your pocket: PSP edition

JoystiqSquare Enix in your pocket: PSP edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Jun 2007 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crisis-CoreCrisis-Core-Final-Fantasy-7Crisis-Core-Final-Fantasy-VIIDissidiaDissidia-Final-FantasyFightingFinal-FantasyFinal-Fantasy-TacticsFinal-Fantasy-Tactics-The-War-Of-The-LionsPSPRPGsonySquare-Enixstar oceanStarOceanStrategyTOSETue, 26 Jun 2007 07:58:00 EST<![CDATA[The 1UP Show: Final Fantasy Tactics]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/26/1up-show-final-fantasy-tactics/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/26/1up-show-final-fantasy-tactics/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/26/1up-show-final-fantasy-tactics/#commentsFiled under: ,

Our friends at 1UP have been playing a lot of the new Final Fantasy Tactics remake on PSP. It's fascinating to see what exactly is new about the game, and it's pretty surprising to see the vast number of improvements from the PS1 original. As expected, there are the new cinematics, but there's also a slew of new battles and characters to face. Hopefully, the new localization of the game when it comes to the US will be a marked improvement from the awkward PS1 original. The game will hit American and European markets this October.

JoystiqThe 1UP Show: Final Fantasy Tactics originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 26 May 2007 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1upFinal-Fantasy-TacticsFinal-Fantasy-Tactics-The-War-Of-The-LionsRPGSquare-EnixStrategyTOSESat, 26 May 2007 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy Tactics to get simultaneous US and UK release]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/14/final-fantasy-tactics-to-get-simultaneous-us-and-uk-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/14/final-fantasy-tactics-to-get-simultaneous-us-and-uk-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/14/final-fantasy-tactics-to-get-simultaneous-us-and-uk-release/#commentsFiled under:

Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions is officially coming to American and European territories. Ten years after its original release on PS1, this remake will feature brilliant cinematics, new jobs, new multiplayer modes, and new characters and story elements. The game will launch simultaneously in both North American and European markets this October.

[Via press release]

JoystiqFinal Fantasy Tactics to get simultaneous US and UK release originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 May 2007 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Final-Fantasy-TacticsFinal-Fantasy-Tactics-The-War-Of-The-LionsRPGSquare-EnixStrategyTOSEMon, 14 May 2007 12:30:00 EST