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[Sid Meier's Ace Patrol review: Strategy simplified]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/ace-patrol-review-sid-meier/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/ace-patrol-review-sid-meier/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/ace-patrol-review-sid-meier/#comments
There's a certain stigma attached to strategy games, where deep systems and mechanics can hoist a sky-high barrier for the uninitiated. Sid Meier's Ace Patrol sidesteps these stigmas, presenting a turn-based experience so simple that even the strategically challenged will be able to play and excel.

Designed for iOS devices, Ace Patrol is a dogfighting game set in WWI. With a series of taps, intense air combat is engaged over a battlefield of hexagonal grids. Using these taps, players execute everything from strafing to swooping dives, hard banking, the Immelman turn and other expert maneuvers.

Gallery: Sid Meier's Ace Patrol

Continue reading Sid Meier's Ace Patrol review: Strategy simplified

JoystiqSid Meier's Ace Patrol review: Strategy simplified originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 May 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesfiraxisFiraxis-Gamesiosipadiphonemobilesid-meiersid-meiers-ace-patrolMon, 13 May 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sid Meier's Ace Patrol lands on iOS May 9]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/sid-meiers-ace-patrol-lands-on-ios-may-9/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/sid-meiers-ace-patrol-lands-on-ios-may-9/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/sid-meiers-ace-patrol-lands-on-ios-may-9/#commentsSid Meier's Ace Patrol lands on iOS next week Sid Meier's next project is an iOS game set in World War I called Ace Patrol, a dogfighting strategy game created by Meier himself. Ace Patrol will launch on the App Store May 9 as a free download.

Ace Patrol is comprised of four campaigns - all downloads gain access to the British campaign and multiplayer side; in-app purchase is required to access the other campaigns. Of course, you can also throw some coin down on the typical tactical and cosmetic boosts, like new planes and elaborate paint jobs.

Multiplayer pits two squadrons against each other, allowing for either hot-swapping a device or asynchronous matches over Game Center.

Gallery: Ace Patrol (iOS)

Continue reading Sid Meier's Ace Patrol lands on iOS May 9

JoystiqSid Meier's Ace Patrol lands on iOS May 9 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 May 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-games2k-mobileace-patrolfiraxisFiraxis-Gamesiosipadiphonemobilesid-meiersid-meiers-ace-patrolWed, 01 May 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Firaxis's Haunted Hollow spooks App Store [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/23/firaxiss-haunted-hollow-spooks-app-store/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/23/firaxiss-haunted-hollow-spooks-app-store/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/23/firaxiss-haunted-hollow-spooks-app-store/#comments Haunted HollowXCOM: Enemy Unknown and Civilization series developer Firaxis Games hits the App Store today with Haunted Hollow, a free-to-play strategy game in which players command an army of semi-fearsome ghouls and ghosts.

Haunted Hollow takes place over a series of one-on-one, tug-of-war style matches in which players compete to scare the residents of a nearby village. Multiple unit types are available, and you'll need to plan carefully in order to claim territory and fend off your opponent's attacks. The town itself isn't too pleased with the sudden influx of hauntings, either, and players will need to carefully route their creatures in order to avoid pitchfork-wielding mobs.

Haunted Hollow features a Game Center-driven asynchronous multiplayer option, along with single-player and local multiplayer pass-and-play modes. Firaxis is also working on an iOS port of that other strategy game, XCOM: Enemy Unknown, coming this summer.

Update: 2K has pulled the game from the App Store, sending out the following statement: "Some of our fans may have noticed our latest mobile title, Haunted Hollow, pre-maturely appearing on the App Store this morning as a result of a testing error. We have removed this build to add a few final updates, so the game can be as polished as possible when it launches globally. But fans won't have to wait long - Haunted Hollow will be available for free to download from the App Store next Thursday, May 2, 2013! We apologize for any confusion this may have caused, but please stay tuned for more information."

JoystiqFiraxis's Haunted Hollow spooks App Store [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Apr 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>firaxis-gameshaunted-hollowiosiphonemobileTue, 23 Apr 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Prototypes show the evolution of XCOM: Enemy Unknown]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/12/xcom-enemy-unknown-prototype-videos/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/12/xcom-enemy-unknown-prototype-videos/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/12/xcom-enemy-unknown-prototype-videos/#comments
XCOM: Enemy Unknown art director Greg Foertsch conducted a GDC 2013 panel called Art Direction Autopsy: XCOM: Enemy Unknown. Foertsch shared a few internal videos chronicling the different directions considered by Firaxis Games, and was kind enough to share those videos with Joystiq.

Above, you can see a video with a more survival-horror slant - a prototype with methodical pacing, centered around a lone farm house wrapped in dark atmosphere. Jump past the break for two more prototype videos.

Continue reading Prototypes show the evolution of XCOM: Enemy Unknown

JoystiqPrototypes show the evolution of XCOM: Enemy Unknown originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Apr 2013 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesfiraxis-gamesgdc-2013iosipadmacmicrosoftmobilepcplaystationprototypeps3xboxxcom-enemy-unknownFri, 12 Apr 2013 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[XCOM: Enemy Unknown iOS won't have in-app purchasable upgrades]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/09/xcom-enemy-unknown-ios-wont-have-in-app-purchasable-upgrades/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/09/xcom-enemy-unknown-ios-wont-have-in-app-purchasable-upgrades/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/09/xcom-enemy-unknown-ios-wont-have-in-app-purchasable-upgrades/#comments XCOM: Enemy Unknown won't go down the common iOS route of charging for upgrades, items and the like, mainly because the game's lead designer can't stand the idea. Firaxis' Jake Solomon made the blunt disclosure to IGN, reaffirming the upcoming mobile version of the 2012 strategy game is a straight port.

"Oh God, please...," Solomon responded to IGN when asked about in-app purchases like power-ups, "No. I'm not sure I would be able to sleep at night. My food would taste like ashes in my mouth."

Solomon told us last month the iOS version, due this summer, is "the exact same game [as on PC or consoles], it's just now fully playable on an iPhone or an iPad." Given that it's the full game, it'll be "appropriately" priced at a premium point, although we're still waiting to see what that is. The iOS version will include the Elite Soldier DLC but not the Slingshot pack, while the Second Wave update remains a possibility.

JoystiqXCOM: Enemy Unknown iOS won't have in-app purchasable upgrades originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Apr 2013 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesfiraxis-gamesiosipadiphonemobilexcom-enemy-unknownTue, 09 Apr 2013 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization 5: Brave New World launches in July, XCOM units playable]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/civilization-5-brave-new-world-launches-in-july/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/civilization-5-brave-new-world-launches-in-july/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/civilization-5-brave-new-world-launches-in-july/#comments

The Civilization 5: Brave New World expansion has been given a launch date of July 9 for North America, July 12 internationally.

During today's Firaxis PAX East panel, the team also announced that the game will feature XCOM squads as late-game units. The units are paratroopers who can drop in 40 units away (delivered by Skyranger), the standard is 9. Would you expect any less from the elite squad of humanity's last hope?

Gallery: Civilization V - Brave New World

JoystiqCivilization 5: Brave New World launches in July, XCOM units playable originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 23 Mar 2013 17:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamescivilization-5firaxisFiraxis-Gamespax-east-2013pcSat, 23 Mar 2013 17:54:00 EST<![CDATA[XCOM: Enemy Unknown on Mac April 25]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/xcom-enemy-unknown-on-mac-april-25/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/xcom-enemy-unknown-on-mac-april-25/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/xcom-enemy-unknown-on-mac-april-25/#comments XCOM Enemy Unknown coming to MacXCOM: Enemy Unknown for Mac just received a release date of April 25 at PAX East.

Announced earlier this month, the Mac version is the "elite edition," which includes the Slingshot and Elite Solidier downloadable content packs, as well as the second wave update.

JoystiqXCOM: Enemy Unknown on Mac April 25 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 23 Mar 2013 17:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>firaxisFiraxis-Gamesmacpax-site-2013xcom-enemy-unknownSat, 23 Mar 2013 17:51:00 EST<![CDATA[XCOM: Enemy Unknown announced for iOS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/xcom-enemy-unknown-iOS/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/xcom-enemy-unknown-iOS/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/xcom-enemy-unknown-iOS/#comments

XCOM: Enemy Unknown was just announced for iPad and iPhone during a PAX East panel.

"It is a straight port. We have not made any gameplay exceptions," XCOM: Enemy Unknown Lead Designer Jake Solomon told us. "You play the exact same game [as on PC or consoles], it's just now fully playable on an iPhone or an iPad."

Asked about the game's pricing, Solomon wouldn't give specifics, saying, "It's going to be priced appropriately for what it is. It's going to be a premium price point. It is the game. It is the full game."

In case you're looking for a definition of "premium" on iOS, expect to be more than $1 and probably push the limits like The Walking Dead does at $15.

The game should be out by summer. We've been told it will not include the Slingshot pack downloadable content, however the Elite Soldier DLC will be included. Meanwhile, the free Second Wave update has not yet been ruled out.

JoystiqXCOM: Enemy Unknown announced for iOS originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 23 Mar 2013 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesfiraxisFiraxis-Gamesiosipadiphonemobilexcom-enemy-unknownSat, 23 Mar 2013 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Seen@PAX East: A tactical poster for your time]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/seen-pax-east-a-tactical-poster-for-your-time/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/seen-pax-east-a-tactical-poster-for-your-time/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/seen-pax-east-a-tactical-poster-for-your-time/#comments SeenPax East Hanging at the 2K booth at PAX East is an inspirational poster of marketing, featuring the characters from Firaxis' Civilization and XCOM: Enemy Unknown. If you're at the show, you can pick up the poster at the "Strategy Masterminds Mega Panel - Behind the Scenes at Firaxis Games" panel. The panel features the team of Firaxis showing off "never-before-seen footage" and teasing "big reveals" at 4:30PM.

JoystiqSeen@PAX East: A tactical poster for your time originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 23 Mar 2013 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesCivilization-5firaxisFiraxis-Gamespax-east-2013pcxcom-enemy-unknownSat, 23 Mar 2013 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[XCOM: Enemy Unknown PC download on sale at Amazon]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/18/xcom-enemy-unknown-pc-download-on-sale-at-amazon/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/18/xcom-enemy-unknown-pc-download-on-sale-at-amazon/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/18/xcom-enemy-unknown-pc-download-on-sale-at-amazon/#comments Commander, you'll find a wave of new recruits joining you soon. Thanks to a special XCOM initiative promotion, we're opening our doors like never before in an attempt to bolster our ranks against the enemy threat in XCOM: Enemy Unknown, offering enlistment via Amazon for $16.50.

Look, we don't want to say you're doing a bad job, it's just - well have you looked out your window lately, Commander? Oh, right, you're underground, sorry. Just know that there are aliens everywhere now, we could really use the extra muscle and the council thinks this is a solid move for a positive monthly report in March.

JoystiqXCOM: Enemy Unknown PC download on sale at Amazon originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Mar 2013 23:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesamazonfiraxis-gamespcxcom-enemy-unknownMon, 18 Mar 2013 23:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization 5 enters 'Brave New World' with expansion pack this summer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/15/civilization-5-expansion-brave-new-world/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/15/civilization-5-expansion-brave-new-world/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/15/civilization-5-expansion-brave-new-world/#comments Civilization 5 enters 'Brave New World' with expansion pack this summerHistory can't be stopped and neither can developer Firaxis' Civilization 5 expansion packs, with "Brave New World" arriving this summer for Mac and PC. This is the second "massive expansion" for the strategy game, following last year's excellent "Gods & Kings," which added religion and espionage to the mix. Brave New World's big features are trade networks and ideology.

"Right at the beginning there are trade routes," Firaxis producer Dennis Shirk told us. "Caravans go back and forth in trade routes. Barbarians can attack them spawning more barbarians. Other players can attack to disrupt trade during wartime." Players will also have a button to easily display an overlay of trade routes in the game.

Another major addition to gameplay is that when the industrial and modern eras roll around, ideology comes into play. "We just wanted to have that culture game be as engaging as the military victory," said Shirk. "Before it was just a really passive game style."

Ideology will be used to enhance the experience of the cultural victory. Per usual, there will be more wonders and scenarios. We'll learn more about this latest expansion next week at PAX East.

Gallery: Civilization V - Brave New World

Continue reading Civilization 5 enters 'Brave New World' with expansion pack this summer

JoystiqCivilization 5 enters 'Brave New World' with expansion pack this summer originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Mar 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>civilization-5firaxisFiraxis-GamesmacpcFri, 15 Mar 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[XCOM: Enemy Unknown coming to Mac]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/xcom-enemy-unknown-coming-to-mac/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/xcom-enemy-unknown-coming-to-mac/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/xcom-enemy-unknown-coming-to-mac/#comments XCOM Enemy Unknown coming to MacGood day, Commander. If you've been unable to experience XCOM: Enemy Unknown due to an allegiance for programs that run on OSX, your wait will soon be over. The award-winning turn-based strategy game is on its way to Mac in an "elite edition," which bundles all previously released downloadable content, including the Slingshot and Elite Solidier packs, along with the second wave update.

XCOM took the silver in our 2012 Game of the Year awards. We've followed up with publisher 2K Games for a narrower release window on the Mac edition.

JoystiqXCOM: Enemy Unknown coming to Mac originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Mar 2013 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesfiraxisFiraxis-Gamesmacxcom-enemy-unknownMon, 04 Mar 2013 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization 5 'One World' expansion spotted in Steam database]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/15/civilization-5-one-world-expansion-spotted-in-steam-database/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/15/civilization-5-one-world-expansion-spotted-in-steam-database/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/15/civilization-5-one-world-expansion-spotted-in-steam-database/#comments Rumor Civilization 5 getting One World expansionCivilization 5 might be getting a new expansion titled "One World," according to a listing on the Steam Apps Database, as spotted by members of the 2K Games forums. The database lists only "Expansion - One World Content" and its executable file for PC, with no additional information. Neither 2K nor Firaxis have confirmed future DLC for the game.

The previous expansion for Civilization 5 was Gods and Kings, which launched in June. We thought that expansion brought us pretty close to the "final version" of Civilization 5, but it seems there's always room for improvement. Rome wasn't built in a day, people.

JoystiqCivilization 5 'One World' expansion spotted in Steam database originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Jan 2013 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-Gamescivilization-5DLCFiraxis-Gamesone-worldpcTue, 15 Jan 2013 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[XCOM: Enemy Unknown now on Xbox Games on Demand]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/08/xcom-enemy-unknown-now-on-xbox-games-on-demand/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/08/xcom-enemy-unknown-now-on-xbox-games-on-demand/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/08/xcom-enemy-unknown-now-on-xbox-games-on-demand/#comments Steam sale continues with great deals on FTL, XCOM, and moreXCOM: Enemy Unknown is available now from the the Xbox Marketplace's Games on Demand section. All it will cost you is a sectoid arm and a muton foot, which converts roughly to $59.99 (in the United States).

For those not stuck in underground bunkers while the planet is under attack, more cost-effective hard copy options can be delivered to your door for $10 less (or more). But how you want to go spending your hard-earned alien limbs for one of the best games of last year is your choice, Commander.

JoystiqXCOM: Enemy Unknown now on Xbox Games on Demand originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 Jan 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-GamesfiraxisFiraxis-Gamesgames-on-demandmicrosoftxboxxcom-enemy-unknownTue, 08 Jan 2013 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Assaulting an alien battleship as a Triad defector in XCOM: Enemy Unknown's 'Slingshot' DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/30/assaulting-an-alien-battleship-in-xcom-enemy-unknown/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/30/assaulting-an-alien-battleship-in-xcom-enemy-unknown/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/30/assaulting-an-alien-battleship-in-xcom-enemy-unknown/#comments Assault an alien battleship in XCOM Enemy Unknown's 'Slingshot' DLCYou probably remember the day that your best friend died on the field of battle in XCOM: Enemy Unknown. One of the coolest features of the Firaxis-developed remake is the ability to customize the names of individual soldiers that make up your army of alien-stompers, fostering a strong connection that adds weight to a soldier's permanent demise. It's unexpected, then, that for its first downloadable content in the rebooted XCOM universe - dubbed 'Slingshot' - Firaxis has decided to create a completely fictional character as its star.

Zhang is a member of the Chinese Triad who defects over to XCOM when he comes to recognize the magnitude of the threat that the world faces. He's introduced in Slingshot's first mission via cutscene, a heavily scarred, besuited tough guy who stands as motionless as the Foo Dog statues that surround him.

The Triad defector is a civilian in the first mission, a neutered unit that must be escorted by XCOM forces to a nearby evac location situated close to your Chinese cemetery rendezvous point. Alien forces attack from all sides, same as it ever was, and only tactical thinking sees you through. You'll probably think more than once "Why can't I just hand this Triad fellow a gun and tell him to point it at the invaders?"

That opportunity comes later, as Zhang's defector status puts him on the outs with his former bosses. Complete the first Slingshot mission and your Triad buddy joins XCOM as a Heavy. He's just like any other soldier save for the fact that his name and appearance are locked. You don't even need to bring him along on the two Slingshot missions that follow, though his high stats might compel you to do so anyway.

Gallery: XCOM: Enemy Unknown 'Slingshot' DLC (11/30/12)

Continue reading Assaulting an alien battleship as a Triad defector in XCOM: Enemy Unknown's 'Slingshot' DLC

JoystiqAssaulting an alien battleship as a Triad defector in XCOM: Enemy Unknown's 'Slingshot' DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 Nov 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-GamesDLCDownloadable-ContentFiraxis-Gamesmicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxxcom-enemy-unknownXCOM-Slingshot-DLCFri, 30 Nov 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NPD: Dishonored sold 460K in October, XCOM hit 114K]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/08/npd-dishonored-sold-460k-in-october-xcom-hit-114k/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/08/npd-dishonored-sold-460k-in-october-xcom-hit-114k/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/08/npd-dishonored-sold-460k-in-october-xcom-hit-114k/#comments October had two scrappy underdogs in Dishonored and XCOM: Enemy Unknown. The meticulous murder-em-up sold 460,200 units, according to the NPD, while the XCOM revamp from Firaxis sold 114,000 units.

Dishonored and XCOM: Enemy Unknown launched on October 9 for Xbox 360, PS3, PC and through digital distribution, and later shared shelf space with big hitters like Assassin's Creed 3, NBA 2K13, Forza Horizon and NBA Baller Beats (kidding).

The NPD only chronicles boxed retail sales in North America, so we don't have a full picture of the sales performance of either Dishonored or XCOM: Enemy Unknown. We already followed up with 2K for XCOM specifics, but the publisher told us it does not "comment on sales figures."

JoystiqNPD: Dishonored sold 460K in October, XCOM hit 114K originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Nov 2012 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesarkane-studiosbethesdadishonoredfiraxis-gamesmicrosoftnpdpcplaystationps3take-twoxboxxcom-enemy-unknownThu, 08 Nov 2012 19:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Borderlands 2 has shipped 5M units to date, XCOM a 'critical and commercial success']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/31/borderlands-2-5-million-xcom-success/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/31/borderlands-2-5-million-xcom-success/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/31/borderlands-2-5-million-xcom-success/#comments
Stiq Flicks Borderlands 2 and the Good, the Bad, and the Weird
Gearbox Software's Borderlands 2 has shipped 5 million units to date, Take-Two interactive announced this morning in its second quarter financials. The company also noted that XCOM: Enemy Unknown is "proving to be a critical and commercial success." Both games are remarked as having "strong digital sales."

"Take-Two's second quarter revenue and earnings exceeded our outlook, driven by the breakout success of 2K's Borderlands 2 and robust demand for our catalog and digitally delivered offerings," noted Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick. "Moreover, with Grand Theft Auto 5 slated for spring 2013, we are poised to generate substantial revenue and earnings growth in fiscal year 2014."

Both Borderlands 2 and XCOM: Enemy Unknown currently hold near 90 Metacritic ratings.

JoystiqBorderlands 2 has shipped 5M units to date, XCOM a 'critical and commercial success' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 31 Oct 2012 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesborderlands-2firaxisFiraxis-Gamesgearbox-softwaremicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxxcom-enemy-unknownWed, 31 Oct 2012 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[How RPGs colonized some of 2012's best games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/19/how-rpgs-colonized-some-of-2012s-best-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/19/how-rpgs-colonized-some-of-2012s-best-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/19/how-rpgs-colonized-some-of-2012s-best-games/#commentsThis is a weekly column from freelancer Rowan Kaiser, which focuses on "Western" role-playing games: their stories, their histories, their mechanics, their insanity, and their inanity.
2012 may not be remembered as a fantastic year for pure western role-playing games (especially without a Skyrim to sweep the end-of-year awards) but it's been a great year for me as a video game fan. Why? Because many of the "best games of the year" may not be RPGs, but they've adapted some of the best components of RPGs to become stronger games.

XCOM: Enemy Unknown, for example, is one of the best-received games of 2012, due in part to its use of RPG mechanics. Tactics games are often associated with RPGs (especially Japanese-style tactics games) but the connection isn't always so concrete with "western" games. For example, I don't really qualify the original X-COM: UFO Defense as an RPG, due to its too-large squads filled with personality-free squaddies, whereas Jagged Alliance 2 certainly fit the mold.

XCOM tweaks the initial game's form in ways that align with traditional role-playing games. The squad size is limited to 4-6 characters, traditional RPG numbers, and only having one base means you rarely need large numbers of squaddies - I never had more than 15 at once, and even that was high due to playing on "Classic" difficulty. It also slightly decreases the importance of the strategic decision-making level, putting the focus on the characters in the field.

Continue reading How RPGs colonized some of 2012's best games

JoystiqHow RPGs colonized some of 2012's best games originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Oct 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-GamesFiraxis-GamesmicrosoftOpinionpcplaystationps3Subset-GamesTelltale-GamesThe-Walking-DeadxboxXCOM-Enemy-UnknownFri, 19 Oct 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Meeting Atypical Aliens and Assassins]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/12/meeting-atypical-aliens-and-assassins/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/12/meeting-atypical-aliens-and-assassins/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/12/meeting-atypical-aliens-and-assassins/#commentsYou're reading Reaction Time, a weekly column that claims to examine recent events, games and trends in the industry, but is really just looking for an excuse to use the word "zeitgeist." It debuts on Fridays in Engadget's digital magazine, Distro.
This holiday's unceasing glut of games is a go, with store shelves making room for the onslaught of snarling aliens, sneering assassins, and slow-mo soldiers walking away from large explosions - or sometimes partially melted helicopters. These are the usual, commercially sexy suspects.

It's best not to judge a game by its cover, though, and this week's front-facing embellishments are exceptionally deceptive. At a shallow glance, XCOM: Enemy Unknown may seem like another case of meathead military dudes mowing down extraterrestrials. Dishonored, meanwhile, conveys a stylish stab-a-thon with its masked, supernaturally talented anti-hero out for revenge. Look longer and you'll find that both have roots in classic PC gaming, and both sell something console owners might not even know they want.

Continue reading Meeting Atypical Aliens and Assassins

JoystiqMeeting Atypical Aliens and Assassins originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Oct 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesArkane-StudiosbethesdadishonoredFiraxis-Gamesmicrosoftpcplaystationps3reaction-timexboxxcom-enemy-unknownFri, 12 Oct 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Play as Sid Meier, Ken Levine in XCOM: Enemy Unknown]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/11/play-as-sid-meier-ken-levine-in-xcom-enemy-unknown/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/11/play-as-sid-meier-ken-levine-in-xcom-enemy-unknown/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/11/play-as-sid-meier-ken-levine-in-xcom-enemy-unknown/#comments Play as Sid Meier, Ken Levine in XCOMAn XCOM: Enemy Unknown Easter egg allows players to bring in the heavy hitters when times are bleakest. PC Gamer points out that certain soldier names will activate "XCOM Heroes," who are pre-designed super soldiers.

Name alterations for soldier unlocks that have worked so far are Sid Meier, Ken Levine, Joe Kelly and Otto Zander. The one caveat for this phenomenal cosmic super soldier creation power is that once these heroes are summoned the achievements for the game will be turned off.

We also concur with PC Gamer's request that you make sure Levine lives, since after saving humanity from aliens we'd appreciate him finishing BioShock: Infinite.

JoystiqPlay as Sid Meier, Ken Levine in XCOM: Enemy Unknown originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Oct 2012 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesfiraxisFiraxis-Gamesken-levinemicrosoftpcplaystationps3Take-Two-Interactivexboxxcom-enemy-unknownThu, 11 Oct 2012 17:20:00 EST<![CDATA[XCOM demo out now on Xbox, PS3 later today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/09/xcom-demo-out-now-on-xbox-ps3-later-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/09/xcom-demo-out-now-on-xbox-ps3-later-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/09/xcom-demo-out-now-on-xbox-ps3-later-today/#comments XCOM demo out now on Xbox, PS3 later todayCommander, to the living room console. Commander, to the living room console.

XCOM: Enemy Unknown's demo is available now on Xbox 360 to Xbox Live gold members. The demo will hit the PlayStation 3 following the regular PSN update later today, and be available tomorrow in Europe. The PC demo is already out there for discovery.

XCOM: Enemy Unknown is available today at retail and will deliver close encounters of the awesome kind.

JoystiqXCOM demo out now on Xbox, PS3 later today originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Oct 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesfiraxisFiraxis-Gamesmicrosoftplaystationps3xboxxcom-enemy-unknownTue, 09 Oct 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview: XCOM: Enemy Unknown]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/08/metareview-xcom-enemy-unknown/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/08/metareview-xcom-enemy-unknown/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/08/metareview-xcom-enemy-unknown/#comments Metareview XCOM Enemy UnknownXCOM: Enemy Unknown, a turn-based strategy game, is getting pretty high marks across the board. We'll let that "turn-based strategy" bit sink in before we continue.... Okay, so, it is a strategy game from Firaxis, the studio behind the accessible Civilization series, which we said in our review "deftly blended management, tactics and the sort of gut-level, throaty encounters usually reserved for fast-paced action games."
  • Edge (90/100): "Charting a course through Earth's imminent destruction is as unashamedly difficult as it was in 1994's X-COM. It's possible, through bad planning and bad management, to doom the planet early on, making the game feel unfair. Get it right, however - survive the stresses of management, and the strains of aliens - and you'll feel like world's greatest hero."
  • Eurogamer (90/100): "So much craft has gone into its atmosphere, into innumerable small details that together add enormous depth and flavour to the world: the occasional conversations overheard while fiddling around in the base; the mission loading screen, which gives you a view of the troops inside the carrier, fidgeting and tapping their feet in transit; the ridiculously cute touch of soldiers acquiring nicknames like 'Longshot' or 'Odin' after a few missions; the memorial room for fallen warriors, with a cork board of photos on the wall, which records their names - and the fact that visiting it triggers, after a few seconds, the sound of a bagpipe march. "
  • Destructoid (90/100): "I was disappointed EU didn't have a great story, at first. But, somewhere along the way, my own story played out through the game's intense missions and grueling decision making back at the base. My story is about an unlikely group of space heroes. After months of waging a seemingly impossible war, my elite squad of XCOM soldiers died."
  • Polygon (85/100): "While tactical, squad-based combat has never felt so effortless and rewarding, the strategy component takes just enough away to make the game as a whole feel like two slightly disjointed halves. One of those halves just so happens to be one of the best and most artfully-designed strategy games in recent memory."
  • IGN (82/100): "Recently Firaxis has been very willing to try new things with its franchises, and it's great to see both the revival of the XCOM franchise and the extension of strategy games on the consoles. You're still likely to want a bit more depth and surprise in the tactical game, but the campaign is full of tense moments that are sure to keep you coming back for more."

JoystiqMetareview: XCOM: Enemy Unknown originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Oct 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesfiraxisFiraxis-Gamesmetareviewmetareviewsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3Take-Two-Interactivexboxxcom-enemy-unknownMon, 08 Oct 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[XCOM rookies, listen up!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/08/xcom-rookies-listen-up/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/08/xcom-rookies-listen-up/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/08/xcom-rookies-listen-up/#commentsJoystiq's resident strategy game fan, Alexander Sliwinski, examines XCOM: Enemy Unknown from the perspective of someone unfamiliar with the series. How will other rookies react?
Never played X-COM before? Cool, neither had I. Although the details are still hazy on how the hyphenated installments of the alien defense strategy series passed me by during the '90s, I am a turn-based strategy fan and I love me some sci-fi.

XCOM: Enemy Unknown is one of the best and most accessible strategy games to come along in a long time, as evidenced by Joystiq's review. The game is split between the turn-based combat missions you'd see in a Final Fantasy Tactics, streamlined for a larger audience; and managing the resources and growth of XCOM's barracks, laboratories, workshops, satellite installations and more.

I can assure you that starting a game at the "normal" difficulty is imperative your first time through. The "classic" difficulty, even after I've beaten the game on normal and know the abilities of each alien species, is still a challenge. It's not that the aliens are overpowered, it's just that they're out to kill you in the classic mode as much as you're after them to usurp their tech. The normal difficulty setting won't regularly activate the aliens until you find them at your own pace.

Gallery: XCOM: Enemy Unknown (8/18/2012)

Continue reading XCOM rookies, listen up!

JoystiqXCOM rookies, listen up! originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Oct 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesfiraxisFiraxis-GamesmicrosoftOpinionpcplaystationps3second-opiniontake-twoxboxxcom-enemy-unknownMon, 08 Oct 2012 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[XCOM: Enemy Unknown review: Close encounters]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/08/xcom-enemy-unknown-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/08/xcom-enemy-unknown-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/08/xcom-enemy-unknown-review/#comments My squad touches down in a wooded area, somewhere in the continental United States. The Skyranger's ramp lowers and my soldiers shuffle out. Dead animals litter the ground under the tree cover. I inch my squad members forward, toward the crashed UFO. I'm the one who shot it down, and I expect its occupants are none too happy about it. As my squad slowly creeps forward, wary of ambush, I notice strange pods scattered about the terrain. I have just enough time to wonder what they are before my point man, Cameron "Shield" Robertson, discovers three Muton soldiers - ugly, hulking brutes with equally nasty plasma rifles.

The Mutons scramble into cover, positioning themselves to fire. Before they have a chance, my heavy trooper readies a rocket launcher, sending its payload directly into the aliens, scorching their hides and blasting their cover to smithereens. Now fully exposed, the beasts make easy targets for my sniper, Sheng "Xeno" Lin. Thanks to some special training, he quickly settles into "the zone," taking out all three Mutons with three perfect shots in rapid succession.

The entire exchange is exhilarating, and I pat myself on the back for a job well done. Little do I know that I have just wasted my only rocket, and that I'll really regret it later on. It's choices like these, and their repercussions, that define XCOM: Enemy Unknown.

Gallery: XCOM: Enemy Unknown (10/9/12)

Continue reading XCOM: Enemy Unknown review: Close encounters

JoystiqXCOM: Enemy Unknown review: Close encounters originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Oct 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-GamesfiraxisFiraxis-Gamesmicrosoftpcplaystationps3Take-Twoxboxxcom-enemy-unknownMon, 08 Oct 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[XCOM: Enemy Unknown launch trailer to the situation room]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/04/xcom-enemy-unknown-launch-trailer-to-the-situation-room/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/04/xcom-enemy-unknown-launch-trailer-to-the-situation-room/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/04/xcom-enemy-unknown-launch-trailer-to-the-situation-room/#comments

Here's the launch trailer for XCOM: Enemy Unknown, which invades retail next week. We will have our review prepped to launch on Monday at 8AM Eastern.

Continue reading XCOM: Enemy Unknown launch trailer to the situation room

JoystiqXCOM: Enemy Unknown launch trailer to the situation room originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Oct 2012 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesfiraxisFiraxis-Gamesmicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxxcom-enemy-unknownThu, 04 Oct 2012 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[XCOM: Enemy Unknown demo out today on Steam]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/24/xcom-enemy-unknown-demo-out-today-on-steam/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/24/xcom-enemy-unknown-demo-out-today-on-steam/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/24/xcom-enemy-unknown-demo-out-today-on-steam/#comments
XCOM: Enemy Unknown will have a PC demo available today on Steam, with a console version "available soon." The demo covers two levels of the strategy game's single-player tutorial campaign, which also introduces the XCOM base, where all the training, research and alien autopsies happen.

We've been impressed with how the game is shaping up so far, both its single-player campaign, seen in the video above, and multiplayer component. XCOM will admit new recruits on October 9.

Gallery: XCOM: Enemy Unknown (PC Interface)

Continue reading XCOM: Enemy Unknown demo out today on Steam

JoystiqXCOM: Enemy Unknown demo out today on Steam originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 24 Sep 2012 11:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesdemofiraxisFiraxis-Gamespcxcom-enemy-unknownMon, 24 Sep 2012 11:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Sending rookies to die in XCOM: Enemy Unknown]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/13/sending-rookies-to-die-in-xcom-enemy-unknown/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/13/sending-rookies-to-die-in-xcom-enemy-unknown/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/13/sending-rookies-to-die-in-xcom-enemy-unknown/#comments
We've been able to spend quite a few hours with the PC version of XCOM: Enemy Unknown, so we decided to put together a quick video walkthrough of one of its missions. Join us as we blast some Sectoids, snipe a few Floaters and just stand there and watch as our poor rookie gets murdered.

JoystiqSending rookies to die in XCOM: Enemy Unknown originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 Sep 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-GamesfiraxisFiraxis-Gamesmicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxxcom-enemy-unknownThu, 13 Sep 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pre-order XCOM: Enemy Unknown on Steam, unlock rewards]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/06/pre-order-xcom-enemy-unknown-on-steam-unlock-rewards/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/06/pre-order-xcom-enemy-unknown-on-steam-unlock-rewards/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/06/pre-order-xcom-enemy-unknown-on-steam-unlock-rewards/#comments Preorder XCOM Enemy Unknown on Steam, unlock rewardsXCOM: Enemy Unknown is available now for pre-order on Steam and it includes a nifty Ni No Kuni-inspired reward system, based on how many people purchase it before launch.

Tier one gives customers the Elite Soldier Pack, which includes the classic XCOM soldier, soldier deco packs and complete color customization option. Tier two unlocks three XCOM-related items for Team Fortress 2: crafty hair; the Pyro as a Badlands alien; and the Vigilant pin. Tier 3 is a free copy of Civilization 5.

XCOM: Enemy Unknown is $50 on Steam.

[Thanks, Ethan!]

JoystiqPre-order XCOM: Enemy Unknown on Steam, unlock rewards originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Sep 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-GamesFiraxis-Gamespcpre-orderrewardsSTEAMxcom-enemy-unknownThu, 06 Sep 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Here, watch this hour of XCOM gameplay]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/28/here-watch-this-hour-of-xcom-gameplay/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/28/here-watch-this-hour-of-xcom-gameplay/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/28/here-watch-this-hour-of-xcom-gameplay/#comments
Were you looking to watch an overabundance of new XCOM footage? 2K Games and Firaxis are sure hoping so, as the two companies took to Twitch.tv yesterday afternoon for just that - an entire hour of XCOM: Enemy Unknown hosted by Firaxis' Jake Solomon and Garth DeAngelis.

What's that? You want even more XCOM coverage? We've got this handy, international-flavored podcast with the aforementioned Firaxis devs right here. You can almost taste the Gaffel Kölsch!

JoystiqHere, watch this hour of XCOM gameplay originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 28 Aug 2012 11:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k2k-gamesfiraxisfiraxis-gamesgameplaygarth-deangelisjake-solomonlivestreammicrosoftpcplaystationps3streamtake-twotake-two-interactivetwitch.tvxboxxcom-enemy-unknownTue, 28 Aug 2012 11:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Citizens! Rise up against the alien scum by joining XCOM!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/24/citizens-rise-up-against-the-alien-scum-by-joining-xcom/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/24/citizens-rise-up-against-the-alien-scum-by-joining-xcom/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/24/citizens-rise-up-against-the-alien-scum-by-joining-xcom/#comments
The time is now: war is upon us, and the alien invaders must be beaten back. Luckily for us, the aliens operate on a turn-by-turn basis, so there's plenty of time to decide how best to defend Earth. The XCOM awaits, soldier. The enemy, however, remains unknown.

JoystiqCitizens! Rise up against the alien scum by joining XCOM! originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Aug 2012 09:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k2k-gamesfiraxisfiraxis-gamesgameplaymicrosoftpcplaystationps3take-twotake-two-interactivexboxxcom-enemy-unknownFri, 24 Aug 2012 09:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Co-opinion: XCOM: Enemy Unknown multiplayer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/20/co-opinion-xcom-enemy-unknown-multiplayer/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/20/co-opinion-xcom-enemy-unknown-multiplayer/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/20/co-opinion-xcom-enemy-unknown-multiplayer/#comments Coopinion XCOM Enemy Unknown multiplayer
Richard Mitchell: So Alexander and I got a chance to try out the XCOM: Enemy Unknown multiplayer mode at Gamescom. Both of us played single-player before, so we had some idea of what we were getting into - but multiplayer is an entirely different beast. Using a pool of points, players "purchase" the units that will comprise their team: XCOM soldiers, aliens, or a mix of both. The standard match has a pool of 10,000 points and a turn time of 90 seconds. For this press demo, we had a whopping 20,000 points and 120 seconds. It sounds like a lot of time, but it wasn't - more on that in a bit.

What units did you pick? (Keep in mind, folks, I had no idea what I was going to face on the field, and neither did Alexander.)
Alexander Sliwinski: I believe in the power of humanity! Actually, no, it's mostly that I'd never played an XCOM game prior to the E3 demo, and I had no idea about each race's powers. So, I went with three human soldiers, two Thin Men and then spent a massive 7,300 points on an assault gunner with an alloy cannon. I figured I'd wipe out any alien scum you threw at me.

Gallery: XCOM: Enemy Unknown (8/18/2012)

Continue reading Co-opinion: XCOM: Enemy Unknown multiplayer

JoystiqCo-opinion: XCOM: Enemy Unknown multiplayer originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Aug 2012 12:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k2k-gamesco-opco-opinionfiraxisfiraxis-gamesgamescomgamescom-2012microsoftmultiplayerpcplaystationps3take-twotake-two-interactivexboxxcom-enemy-unknownMon, 20 Aug 2012 12:05:00 EST<![CDATA[XCOM: Enemy Unknown head-to-head multiplayer mode revealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/10/xcom-enemy-unknown-head-to-head-multiplayer-mode-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/10/xcom-enemy-unknown-head-to-head-multiplayer-mode-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/10/xcom-enemy-unknown-head-to-head-multiplayer-mode-revealed/#comments XCOM Enemy Unknown multiplayer mode announcedIn the modern age of video games, multiplayer is king and XCOM: Enemy Unknown is going for the crown. Developer Firaxis Games has revealed details on the multiplayer portion of its upcoming reboot of the classic turn-based strategy game series.

For the first time in the franchise's history, XCOM commanders will be able to go head-to-head in deathmatch. The two-player mode allows players to select a squad of six soldiers or aliens - or a combination of the two - to vie for battlefield superiority.

"With the multiplayer mode in XCOM: Enemy Unknown, gamers can finally find out what it's like to command alien units and unleash extraterrestrial destruction on Planet Earth or defend it with a squad of XCOM soldiers and alien allies," XCOM: Enemy Unknown lead designer Jake Solomon said.

From a narrative perspective, the multiplayer mode has no link to the single-player campaign found in XCOM: Enemy Unknown. Players can "mix and match both alien and soldier units to comprise their squad, outfitting soldiers with dozens of armor types, weapons, items and class-based abilities for thousands of possible loadout combinations," a press release announcing the mode revealed.

Pre-orders of XCOM: Enemy Unknown give players access to the 'Elite Solider Pack,' which includes a set of "top-of-the-line soldier customization features," such as the Soldier Deco packs and complete color customization," along with the (already known) classic XCOM soldier flat-top harido. PC players will also have a shot at a platform-exclusive special edition, featuring "a number of unique XCOM items, including an art book; fold-out poster of the XCOM headquarters; XCOM insignia patch; and a collection of digital bonus assets such as desktop wallpaper, soundtrack and more."

XCOM: Enemy Unknown launches for the PC, Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 on October 9. And, spoiler alert, the unknown enemies are totally aliens.

Gallery: XCOM: Enemy Unknown (Face-off)

Continue reading XCOM: Enemy Unknown head-to-head multiplayer mode revealed

JoystiqXCOM: Enemy Unknown head-to-head multiplayer mode revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 10 Aug 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-GamesFiraxis-Gamesmicrosoftmultiplayerpcplaystationps3xboxxcom-enemy-unknownFri, 10 Aug 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization V: Gods & Kings demo now on Steam]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/30/civilization-v-gods-and-kings-demo-now-on-steam/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/30/civilization-v-gods-and-kings-demo-now-on-steam/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/30/civilization-v-gods-and-kings-demo-now-on-steam/#comments Civilization V Gods & Kings demo now on SteamWho can afford to blindly purchase games they think may be good? Not in this economy, buster - free demos are a necessity. Today, a demo for Civilization V: Gods & Kings is available for download on Steam.

Gods & Kings launched earlier this month - we enjoyed it - and is currently available as a $29.99 expansion. Of course, you must already own Civilization V to play.

JoystiqCivilization V: Gods & Kings demo now on Steam originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 30 Jun 2012 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>civilization-5civilization-5-gods-and-kingsdemofiraxisFiraxis-GamessteamSat, 30 Jun 2012 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Learning religious proselytizing from Civ 5's 'Gods and Kings' expansion]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/18/learning-religious-proselytizing-from-civ-5s-gods-and-kings-e/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/18/learning-religious-proselytizing-from-civ-5s-gods-and-kings-e/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/18/learning-religious-proselytizing-from-civ-5s-gods-and-kings-e/#comments
Perhaps the biggest addition in Civilization 5's upcoming Gods & Kings expansion is religion. But don't go thinking it's some innocuous cultural addendum - as the Firaxis folks above explain, religion in Civ 5 is all about subjugation.

JoystiqLearning religious proselytizing from Civ 5's 'Gods and Kings' expansion originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Jun 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamescivilization-5expansionfiraxisfiraxis-gamesgameplaygods-and-kingsmacpcreligiontake-twotake-two-interactiveMon, 18 Jun 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Civilization V Steam Workshop functionality now live]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/15/psa-civilization-v-steam-workshop-functionality-now-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/15/psa-civilization-v-steam-workshop-functionality-now-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/15/psa-civilization-v-steam-workshop-functionality-now-live/#comments Steam Workshop functionality has been turned on in Civilization V. Whether you're pumped for the upcoming Gods & Kings expansion pack, or you merely want more modability out of your vanilla Civilization V experience, you can opt in to the expanded social features enabled by Steam Workshop functionality for free right now.

... Well, not now now. You have to open up Steam and do it in there. Go ahead - go do it. This is the end of the post anyway. Nothing more to see here.

JoystiqPSA: Civilization V Steam Workshop functionality now live originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Jun 2012 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>civilization-5Firaxis-Gamesmacpcsteamsteam-workshopvalveFri, 15 Jun 2012 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization 2 10-year-game predicts nuclear wasteland future, Sid Meier 'can't believe' it]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/15/civilization-2-10-year-game-predicts-nuclear-wasteland-future-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/15/civilization-2-10-year-game-predicts-nuclear-wasteland-future-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/15/civilization-2-10-year-game-predicts-nuclear-wasteland-future-s/#comments Sid Meier 'can't believe' 10yearlong Civ 2 game's nuclear wasteland future scenarioA few days ago, a thread on Reddit revolving around a tense Civilization 2 match received quite a bit of attention. Within the thread, user Lycerius detailed a scenario within the game that has been in play for about ten years. The American, Viking, and Celtic nations in his decade long battle remain locked in a 1700-year-long war, fighting over what little resources remain following years of nuclear carnage; in-game the year is 3991 AD. Now Civilization's mastermind, Sid Meier, has weighed-in on the nearly two thousand (in-game) year conflict.

"My first thought was, 'Wow! I can't believe anyone has been playing Civ II for that long,'" Sid Meier told The Associated Press (via Yahoo) in an interview. "It's been more than 15 years since we released that game, and I don't think any of us expected a decade-long game would come out of it. It would be amazing if we could come back in 2025 and find out if someone's had a 10-year game of Civ V going."

We note, for future generations, not to look to the global landscape in Lycerius' Civilization 2 match for hints into our own destiny. It's just a game. We wouldn't want this intense match to become the Mayan calendar equivalent for our family in the far-flung future.

JoystiqCivilization 2 10-year-game predicts nuclear wasteland future, Sid Meier 'can't believe' it originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Jun 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>civilization-2Firaxis-GamespcpoliticsredditSid-MeierFri, 15 Jun 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Co-opinion: XCOM: Enemy Unknown]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/11/co-opinion-xcom-enemy-unknown/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/11/co-opinion-xcom-enemy-unknown/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/11/co-opinion-xcom-enemy-unknown/#comments Coopinion XCOM Enemy Unknown
Jess Conditt: First, I have to paint a picture for everyone: Mike Schramm, tall dude extraordinare, so giddy with anticipation that he resembled a puppy in a canine candy store -- that's how he entered the XCOM: Enemy Unknown preview room. I, on the other hand, had no previous experience with the franchise, yet by the end, my tail was wagging a bit as well.
Mike Schramm: To be fair, I can look puppy-like at almost any time: Big ears, wet nose. But yes, I was excited to see XCOM, and as you may have already heard in all the hype from the show, the core turn-based gameplay did not disappoint. Turn-based strategy RPG scratches a core (flea-based?) itch in my soul, and between this game, Skulls of the Shogun, and iOS games like Outwitters and Hero Academy, this genre's on the cusp of a renaissance. XCOM's turns move easily and quickly, and the game's interface is great at getting out of the way and letting you make strong choices.

Gallery: XCOM: Enemy Unknown (E3 2012)

Continue reading Co-opinion: XCOM: Enemy Unknown

JoystiqCo-opinion: XCOM: Enemy Unknown originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Jun 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-GamesCo-opinione3-2012Firaxis-Gamesmicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxxcom-enemy-unknownMon, 11 Jun 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[XCOM: Enemy Unknown prepares for 'Last Stand']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/04/xcom-enemy-unknown-prepares-for-last-stand/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/04/xcom-enemy-unknown-prepares-for-last-stand/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/04/xcom-enemy-unknown-prepares-for-last-stand/#comments
Nothing helps humanity put aside its differences like a bunch of aliens trying to liquify, eviscerate or attempting to eat us. We fight back October 9.

JoystiqXCOM: Enemy Unknown prepares for 'Last Stand' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Jun 2012 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-GamesFiraxis-Gamesxcom-enemy-unknownMon, 04 Jun 2012 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization 5 coming to Steam Workshop]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/04/civilization-5-coming-to-steam-workshop/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/04/civilization-5-coming-to-steam-workshop/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/04/civilization-5-coming-to-steam-workshop/#comments Civilization V coming to Steam WorkshopCivilization 5 is hitting Steam Workshop soon, enhancing a bevy of modding features in the full game along with the coming Gods & Kings expansion pack. Civilization 5's current modding system is getting a facelift to include mod author pages complete with a "follow" option, the ability to create collections, favorite mods and comment on them directly.

2K Games says it will update with more information on the official forums next week.

JoystiqCivilization 5 coming to Steam Workshop originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Jun 2012 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-Gamescivilization-5Firaxis-GamesmacmodmoddingpcSTEAMsteam-workshopMon, 04 Jun 2012 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[My liege, Civilization V is free to play on Steam this weekend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/my-liege-civilization-v-is-free-to-play-on-steam-this-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/my-liege-civilization-v-is-free-to-play-on-steam-this-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/my-liege-civilization-v-is-free-to-play-on-steam-this-weekend/#comments The time of being born into power is coming to a close, as democracy sweeps across this world of ours. Now, if you want to be a leader of a country, you need to be smart - a student of conquest and diplomacy - and this weekend you can study up in Civilization V on Steam, free of charge.

You can install the game through Steam and play until you bring the world around to your type of thinking, up until 1pm PT on Sunday. And if you like Civilization V, it just so happens you can also purchase it at a 75% discount this weekend, which brings the price down to $7.49. A good ruler must also be able to spot a good bit of marketing. The expansion, Gods and Kings, is a little more than a month away, after all.

JoystiqMy liege, Civilization V is free to play on Steam this weekend originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 May 2012 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamescivilization-5Firaxis-GamesmacpcsteamFri, 25 May 2012 04:00:00 EST