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[Heavy Gear Assault kicks off its crowdfunding campaign]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/heavy-gear-assault-kicks-off-its-crowdfunding-campaign/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/heavy-gear-assault-kicks-off-its-crowdfunding-campaign/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/heavy-gear-assault-kicks-off-its-crowdfunding-campaign/#comments
Stompy Bot Productions and Mektek Studios have launched their Kickstarter project for Heavy Gear Assault, the return of the mech combat game originally introduced by Dream Pod 9, with later games published by Activision.

The multiplayer e-sports-focused, Unreal Engine 4-powered game is in development for PC and will be free-to-play with premium subscriptions options available for players. The development team is seeking $800,000 by June 29, with a dozen stretch goals already planned for the funding project.

JoystiqHeavy Gear Assault kicks off its crowdfunding campaign originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crowdfundinge-sportsfree-to-playheavy-gearheavy-gear-assaultkickstartermechmektek-studiospcstompy-bot-productionsWed, 22 May 2013 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[War Thunder takes flight on PS4 this holiday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/war-thunder-takes-flight-on-ps4-this-holiday/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/war-thunder-takes-flight-on-ps4-this-holiday/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/war-thunder-takes-flight-on-ps4-this-holiday/#comments
Gaijin Entertainment - not to be confused with Bit.Trip series developer Gaijin Games - is preparing a PS4 version of War Thunder for launch this holiday season. War Thunder is Gaijin's free-to-play online WWII vehicular combat game, currently in open beta on the PC.

"The power of PS4 will allow developers to include improved head-tracking system, easier socializing tools, smart and easy options to record, stream and share homemade gameplay videos and will have full support of PlayStation Cloud," the press release past the break confirms. Nothing is mentioned regarding whether this will also be free-to-play on PS4, so we've inquired with Gaijin Entertainment for further details.

War Thunder has over 1.5 million players on the PC and Gaijin Entertainment is currently working on a version for mobile devices.

Continue reading War Thunder takes flight on PS4 this holiday

JoystiqWar Thunder takes flight on PS4 this holiday originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 May 2013 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>free-to-playgaijin-entertainmentplaystation-4ps4war-thunderTue, 14 May 2013 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[New Hawken trailer tours the Facility, picks up slack]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/11/new-hawken-trailer-tours-the-facility-picks-up-slack/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/11/new-hawken-trailer-tours-the-facility-picks-up-slack/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/11/new-hawken-trailer-tours-the-facility-picks-up-slack/#comments
This latest Hawken trailer details the game's newest map, Facility, which is just one of many new additions recently applied to the game. As of press time, no mechs have been spotted wearing short skirts, long jackets or any combination of the two.

JoystiqNew Hawken trailer tours the Facility, picks up slack originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 11 May 2013 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Adhesive-gamesDLCFacilityfree-to-playhawkenpcSat, 11 May 2013 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Defiance team plans five DLC releases, first adds the Castithan race and more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/defiance-team-plans-five-dlc-releases-first-adds-the-castithan/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/defiance-team-plans-five-dlc-releases-first-adds-the-castithan/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/defiance-team-plans-five-dlc-releases-first-adds-the-castithan/#commentsDefiance getting 5 DLC things, one looks like this Now that the MMO-slash-TV show Defiance has been launched, says executive producer Nathan Richardsson, things are about to really get good, in the form of five DLC releases later this year. He admits that fan response to the game has it pegged as "about as deep as a bag of chips but great fun," but adds that he'd "like to get to the two-bag of chip depth category or at least, add some salsas for various textures."

Most of those spices will come in the form of DLC, and Richardsson has outlined what the game's first addon, tentatively titled "Enter the Castithan," will look like. There will be three elements to it: Those who buy the downloadable content for $10 will get access to the Castithan playable race, along with a new outfit and vehicle, and a new story mission line and game mode. There will also be free content, including new weapons, a new PvP map called Military Academy, and some other game improvements. And then there will be new items in the store, including weapon mods, more vehicle versions, and the ability to change your character's customizations.

Richardsson says all future add-ons will have these paid, free, and store components, and the team's goal is to keep the updates and content flowing and focused on what players want. The first DLC release is expected to hit the game after a patch later on this month.

JoystiqDefiance team plans five DLC releases, first adds the Castithan race and more originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 10 May 2013 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contentdefiancedlcdownloadablef2pfree-to-playmicrosoftmmonathan-richardssonpcplaystationps3releasesyfytrion-worldstvxboxFri, 10 May 2013 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Into the Dead, endless zombie shooter for mobile, hits 10 million]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/into-the-dead-endless-zombie-shooter-for-mobile-hits-10-millio/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/into-the-dead-endless-zombie-shooter-for-mobile-hits-10-millio/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/into-the-dead-endless-zombie-shooter-for-mobile-hits-10-millio/#commentsInto the Dead, endless zombie shooter for mobile, gets 10 million hits Mobile games may not all reach the same level of fame as retail or desktop counterparts, but the market is strong, producing games that sell millions more than some of our favorites and support entire teams of developers. Into the Dead from mobile publisher PikPok, for example, just passed 10 million downloads across iOS and Android devices, after five months on the market.

Into the Dead is an endless runner combined with a shooter, all set in the zombie apocalypse. It's free on iOS and Android, but a no-ad version of the game is available for $2 as an in-app purchase. And now for a thought experiment: If only 10 percent of players purchase the ad-free game, that's $2,000,000. Not bad for a 5-month-old.

If you want to bring Into the Dead to 10,000,001 downloads, head to the App Store or Google Play. Another PikPok game to pass 10 million downloads is Flick Kick Football. The Flick Kick series has clocked in more than 20 million downloads.

Continue reading Into the Dead, endless zombie shooter for mobile, hits 10 million

JoystiqInto the Dead, endless zombie shooter for mobile, hits 10 million originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 10 May 2013 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>10-millionandroiddownloadfree-to-playinto-the-deadiosipadiphonemobilepikpokzombiesFri, 10 May 2013 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony, Microsoft going 'heavily' on free-to-play next-gen, says Epic VP Rein]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/sony-microsoft-going-heavily-on-free-to-play-next-gen-says-e/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/sony-microsoft-going-heavily-on-free-to-play-next-gen-says-e/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/sony-microsoft-going-heavily-on-free-to-play-next-gen-says-e/#comments Sony and Microsoft are telling developers they're "going heavily" on free-to-play and in-app purchasing models with their next-gen consoles, according to Epic Games VP Mark Rein. Speaking in a roundtable discussion at the UK's Game Horizon conference, Rein said both companies will take on the kinds of financial models seen on mobile devices.

"The next-gen consoles are going to be fully embracing the free-to-play and these IAP-type business models," Rein told the audience, "So in case you don't know that I'm putting that out there. Sony and Microsoft are both going heavily in that area."

Roundtable chair Matt Martin of GamesIndustry International said that's what both platform holders are saying, but that "we still need to see some kind of evidence."

Rein replied, "Well, I'm telling you. I'm telling you what they're telling developers."

Continue reading Sony, Microsoft going 'heavily' on free-to-play next-gen, says Epic VP Rein

JoystiqSony, Microsoft going 'heavily' on free-to-play next-gen, says Epic VP Rein originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 May 2013 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epic-gamesfree-to-playgame-horizon-2013mark-reinmicrosoftnext-xboxps4shuhei-yoshidasonyThu, 09 May 2013 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Citizen funding eclipses $9 million]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/star-citizen-funding-eclipses-9-million/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/star-citizen-funding-eclipses-9-million/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/star-citizen-funding-eclipses-9-million/#commentsStar Citizen funding reaches over $9 million Star Citizen has reached over $9 million in funding, thanks to its almost 170,000 contributors. The space exploration MMO, spearheaded by Wing Commander creator Chris Roberts, began with a successful $2 million run on Kickstarter, and has since raised almost $7 million on its own website. The original goal was "just" $500,000, but Star Citizen has topped every stretch goal it set and then some.

As part of its stretch goals, Star Citizen's launch plans include a tablet companion app, celebrity voice acting, a free mission pack for every player, and over 100 star systems to explore while playing. Developer Cloud Imperium Games has just opened offices in Santa Monica, and the game's website is proclaiming a victory for post-publisher game development.

Players will get a chance to explore the world of Star Citizen in an alpha release, scheduled for sometime this winter.

JoystiqStar Citizen funding eclipses $9 million originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 May 2013 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>9-millionchris-robertscrowdfundingexplorationfree-to-playindependentkickstartermmomoneypcpublisherroberts-space-industriesstar-citizenWed, 01 May 2013 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Take your whole body on The Mighty Quest for Epic Loot]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/23/take-your-whole-body-on-the-mighty-quest-for-epic-loot/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/23/take-your-whole-body-on-the-mighty-quest-for-epic-loot/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/23/take-your-whole-body-on-the-mighty-quest-for-epic-loot/#comments

As you might imagine, Ubisoft's The Mighty Quest for Epic Loot is a dungeon crawler at heart. But that's just one organ in the game's anatomy: the game's trailer shows off the arms of character customization, the brain of dungeon building, and the long, long legs of asynchronous multiplayer competition.

JoystiqTake your whole body on The Mighty Quest for Epic Loot originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Apr 2013 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archerfree-to-playmighty-quest-for-epic-lootmultiplayerpainkillerpctrailerubisoftubisoft-montrealvideoTue, 23 Apr 2013 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Random House gets interactive with StoryNexus tech and 'Black Crown']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/14/random-house-gets-interactive-with-storynexus-tech-and-black-cr/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/14/random-house-gets-interactive-with-storynexus-tech-and-black-cr/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/14/random-house-gets-interactive-with-storynexus-tech-and-black-cr/#comments Random House working on Black Crown narrative gameBook publisher Random House is putting Failbetter Games' StoryNexus platform to good use with a free-to-play browser-based narrative project dubbed Black Crown. So far Black Crown has a website, which features a gas mask icon and describes the endeavor as "an infectious new kind of narrative experience." A phrase in latin on the top of the page translates roughly to "now comes truth, God, truth comes now."

Whatever it is, Black Crown is scheduled to go live in May, and Random House plans to run it for a full year, first hoping to generate "thousands rather than hundreds" of registered users before launch. The author behind the project remains a mystery until May, and this whole thing might result in a physical book and ebook down the line, Digital Publisher Dan Franklin tells The Bookseller.

Failbetter Games is behind such narrative games as Fallen London, and its StoryNexus platform is available in public beta for anyone who wants to create browser-based, interactive stories, right here.

JoystiqRandom House gets interactive with StoryNexus tech and 'Black Crown' originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 14 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>black-crownfailbetter-gamesfallen-londonfree-to-playinteractive-narrativemacpcrandom-housestorynexusSun, 14 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tekken Card Tournament crests 1 million downloads, celebrates with discounts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/12/tekken-card-tournament-crests-1-million-downloads-celebrates-wi/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/12/tekken-card-tournament-crests-1-million-downloads-celebrates-wi/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/12/tekken-card-tournament-crests-1-million-downloads-celebrates-wi/#comments Tekken Card Tournament crests 1 million downloads, celebrates with discountsTekken Card Tournament was downloaded over a million times (in aggregate) within the first four days of its availability on the App Store, Google Play and Amazon's Appstore for Android, Namco Bandai has announced. That's not counting however many people played the game directly in their browser, either.

To signify the occasion, Namco Bandai has enacted a 48 hour, 30 percent off sale for all in-game booster packs, as of 11 a.m. Eastern this morning. Do note: this discount applies to the packs of cards themselves, which must be purchased using in-game currency. The purchase price of the in-game currency itself, however, has not been discounted, though you'll still get more for your credits while the sale is in effect.

You can always earn credits by winning matches and stuff too, but who has time for that in this modern age?

Continue reading Tekken Card Tournament crests 1 million downloads, celebrates with discounts

JoystiqTekken Card Tournament crests 1 million downloads, celebrates with discounts originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Apr 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androiddownloadsfree-to-playiosipadiphonemacmobileNamco-Bandaipcsalessales-figuresstatsTekken-Card-TournamentFri, 12 Apr 2013 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ridge Racer Driftopia is 'free-2-drift' on PS3 and PC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/11/ridge-racer-driftopia-is-free-2-drift-on-ps3-and-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/11/ridge-racer-driftopia-is-free-2-drift-on-ps3-and-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/11/ridge-racer-driftopia-is-free-2-drift-on-ps3-and-pc/#comments
Ridge Racer usually breaks ground by being a launch game on ... pretty much every platform ever. Now it's innovating by adopting a new model, free-to-play, and bringing it to a new level of silly nomenclature by calling it "free-2-drift."

Ridge Racer Driftopia, developed by Ridge Racer Unbounded's Bugbear Entertainment, is a racing game in which you can buy cars, "repair kits," and XP packs. Namco previously experimented with a similar business model with Ridge Racer for Vita, which shipped with a small number of cars and courses, and sold the rest as DLC. Of course, that game had a $30 MSRP. So this is progress! It's due out this year, Namco says.

JoystiqRidge Racer Driftopia is 'free-2-drift' on PS3 and PC originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Apr 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BugBear-Entertainmentfree-to-playpcplaystationps3ridge-racerridge-racer-driftopiaThu, 11 Apr 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Minimum: a free-to-play shooter from TimeGate [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/10/minimum-a-free-to-play-shooter-from-timegate/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/10/minimum-a-free-to-play-shooter-from-timegate/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/10/minimum-a-free-to-play-shooter-from-timegate/#comments Texas-based developer TimeGate Studios has announced that it's working on a new free-to-play, third-person match-based shooter called Minimum.

Minimum boasts a simplistic look, and has you building a character up during each life, adding more and more power-ups to your weapons (ranging from ice-powered sniper rifles to flaming katanas) as you go. In Titan, the "signature" game mode according to the FAQ, players support two giant creatures fighting each other during the match.

TimeGate also says it hopes to bring "everyone to the development table to influence how the game grows and changes." Minimum will be in closed alpha soon, and is set for a Steam release whenever it's ready.

TimeGate is probably best known at the moment for its work on Aliens: Colonial Marines, but the company also made Section 8 and Kohan: Immortal Sovereigns in the past, so Minimum is coming from a substantial history of development experience for PC.

Update: The game will be available through Steam's Early Access channel on April 16 in North America.

JoystiqMinimum: a free-to-play shooter from TimeGate [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Apr 2013 03:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfree-to-playfree-to-play-shooterkatanasmatchmatch-basedminimumpcpowerupssection-8timegatetimegate-studiostitanweaponsWed, 10 Apr 2013 03:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Sonic Dash goes free on the App Store, adds daily challenges]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/31/sonic-dash-goes-free-on-the-app-store-adds-daily-challenges/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/31/sonic-dash-goes-free-on-the-app-store-adds-daily-challenges/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/31/sonic-dash-goes-free-on-the-app-store-adds-daily-challenges/#comments Hardlight Studio's endless runner Sonic Dash is now free on the App Store, a significant price cut from its $1.99 price when it launched March 7. According to the developer's Twitter account, those that already bought the game will receive 10 revive tokens for free to make up for the price change.

Sonic Dash also received an update recently that added daily challenges to the game, which will reward players with content such as Red Star Rings and new characters. The game was also tweaked to fix balance issues with some obstacles and improve its performance on iPhone 4 and 4th generation iPod touch devices.

JoystiqSonic Dash goes free on the App Store, adds daily challenges originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 31 Mar 2013 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>free-to-playHardlightiosipadiphonemobilesonic-dashupdateSun, 31 Mar 2013 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Path of Exile version 1.0 is six months away, one expansion per year after]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/30/path-of-exile-version-1-0-is-six-months-away-one-expansion-per/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/30/path-of-exile-version-1-0-is-six-months-away-one-expansion-per/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/30/path-of-exile-version-1-0-is-six-months-away-one-expansion-per/#comments Path of Exile plans version 10 in six months, and then one expansion per yearThe free-to-play action RPG Path of Exile went into open beta this past January, and the next step is putting together a version 1.0, Grinding Gear Games co-founder Chris Wilson told us this week at GDC 2013. Starting with about 250,000 registered players, the game has since grown up to around 2 million, with the devs fixing bugs and providing weekly patches since then.

The weekly patches, which have been adding new skills and items to the game, will continue to roll out. But version 1.0 is going to be the game's full release, when the "open beta" tag comes off, and the game "will be reviewable," according to Wilson. The update will add a full story to the game's Act 3, including lots of new monsters and items, and "do the stuff we had to cut corners on" throughout the game's development, Wilson said.

After that, "we intend to do expansions over the next five to ten years," Wilson told us. The team has no set plans for releases, and if they can put a major feature together in less time, then Wilson says they'll do it. The game already had a lot of success with "races," which are special events that challenge players to speedrun the game under special conditions. But in general, he said, given the current player base, "adding a new act to the game is probably a once a year thing."

JoystiqPath of Exile version 1.0 is six months away, one expansion per year after originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 30 Mar 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgchris-wilsonexpansionsfree-to-playgdcgdc-2013gdc2013grinding-gears-gamespatchpath-of-exilepcreleaseupdatesSat, 30 Mar 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DayZ free-to-play was considered]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/dayz-free-to-play-was-considered/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/dayz-free-to-play-was-considered/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/dayz-free-to-play-was-considered/#comments During his GDC talk chronicling the ascension of the DayZ mod, creator Dean "Rocket" Hall revealed that there was a time - albeit a brief window - when he considered turning DayZ into a free-to-play game. "Every one likes having four Lamborghinis parked in their driveway," Hall joked.

"When I looked at signing with a bunch of companies, some of them were interested in free-to-play. We're talking a lot of money, like stupid money. I felt like - I just knew it wouldn't work. DayZ is about survival and not buying your way into it. I still think there's room for free-to-play games - I've got one idea I think could actually work quite well as a free-to-play game - but it's like trying to cram a round peg into a square hole."

Hall also touched on the infamous shops found in some free-to-play games, where players can purchase good gear or bypass certain mechanics by throwing down real money. "The DayZ experience is about what you find in the world, so introducing a shop and things like that, like cosmetic items. It's not about cosmetic items, there are no cosmetic items in DayZ - it's not like, 'I worked at Burger King for an hour and bought this hat,' you know; it's 'I found that hat in a barn fight.'"

DayZ standalone is currently in development at Bohemia Interactive. The alpha build isn't expected to launch until at least June.

JoystiqDayZ free-to-play was considered originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Mar 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bohemia-interactiveday-zdean-hallfree-to-playgdc-2013pcThu, 28 Mar 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Uncharted 3 free multiplayer downloaded over 350,000 times]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/19/uncharted-3-free-multiplayer-downloaded-over-350-000-times/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/19/uncharted-3-free-multiplayer-downloaded-over-350-000-times/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/19/uncharted-3-free-multiplayer-downloaded-over-350-000-times/#comments At the end of February, Sony and Naughty Dog flipped the freebie switch on Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception multiplayer. Since then, over 350,000 individuals worldwide have downloaded the free client.

The news comes as part of a DLC announcement over on the PlayStation Blog, where Naughty Dog reveals it will offer new DLC every month until June, starting first with "Oddball" avatar accoutrements celebrating Extraterrestrial Abductions Day. Some "Oddball" items include a duct tape mask, a bag for your avatar's head and a burlap sack, also for your head - because nothing celebrates alien abductions quite like a sombrero.

JoystiqUncharted 3 free multiplayer downloaded over 350,000 times originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Mar 2013 18:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>free-to-playnaughty-dogplaystationps3sceasonyuncharted-3uncharted-3-drakes-deceptionTue, 19 Mar 2013 18:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Uncharted 3 multiplayer goes free-to-play, available today on the PSN]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/26/uncharted-3-multiplayer-goes-free-to-play-available-today-on-th/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/26/uncharted-3-multiplayer-goes-free-to-play-available-today-on-th/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/26/uncharted-3-multiplayer-goes-free-to-play-available-today-on-th/#comments
This week, Naughty Dog will try its hand at the free-to-play market by making the multiplayer component of Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception available for all to download.

As a standalone PSN download, the free-to-play version of Uncharted 3's multiplayer introduces a host of microtransactions for players to compile the online version of Uncharted 3 they want to play, with the first 15 levels of competitive multiplayer available for free.

Naughty Dog lead game designer Robert Cogburn told Joystiq that the studio's plan to go free-to-play is an attempt to accomplish two goals: reinvigorate the pool of Uncharted 3 players and test the freemium waters.

Some of the transactions available, according to Cogburn, include raising the level cap to 25 or removing it completely. Cooperative content won't be included in the free-to-play version of Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception, rather the 'Co-op Arena' and 'Adventure' modes have been split into their own separate pieces of premium downloadable content in the new free version.

For game owner completionists, the 'Game of the Year' edition of Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception will be available to purchase digitally, eschewing the franchise's adventure into the world of microtransactions all together.

Gallery: Uncharted 3 (multiplayer)

Continue reading Uncharted 3 multiplayer goes free-to-play, available today on the PSN

JoystiqUncharted 3 multiplayer goes free-to-play, available today on the PSN originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Feb 2013 11:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>free-to-playplaystationps3uncharted-3uncharted-3-drakes-deceptionTue, 26 Feb 2013 11:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Navigating the free-to-play landscape in Command & Conquer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/25/navigating-the-free-to-play-landscape-in-command-and-conquer/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/25/navigating-the-free-to-play-landscape-in-command-and-conquer/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/25/navigating-the-free-to-play-landscape-in-command-and-conquer/#comments Command & Conquer Punching through routes in EA's freetoplay sequelThe term "free-to-play" carries with it a certain stigma in the video game industry. It invariably causes gamers to flinch, calling to mind social games like FarmVille. However, as more recognizable experiences enter the realm of free-to-play software, the knee-jerk reaction has begun to subside. With the Command & Conquer series launching under the freemium banner later this year, it would appear that EA is banking on tamer attitudes toward free, microtransaction-based titles.

Despite the simplified, non-sequel sounding name, EA's free-to-play Command & Conquer is a continuation of the strategy series. First announced as Command & Conquer: Generals 2 in 2011, developer BioWare Victory plans to launch the game this year with a campaign that continues the Generals lineage, and later refresh the free-to-play game with content set in the Tiberium and Red Alert universes.

There lies a very ambitious development plan in place for this series, with gamers playing a key part of the process. Immediately after launch, Victory says it will begin crunching numbers and plugging into the fan community to see what needs to be fixed, changed, or tweaked. Victory promises changes based on this feedback will be implemented every week. Calling it a "Live Service," Victory anticipates the instant feedback will allow Command & Conquer's new free-to-play focus to improve and expand quickly.

The downsides of shifting to a free-to-play focus are immediate for franchise fans. Though there will be single-player content, Command & Conquer will not include a single-player campaign and Victory has no plans to include cutscenes or cinematics, which is a massive blow to series supporters. Additionally, Command & Conquer is another in EA's growing list of games that require a constant internet connection.

Gallery: Command & Conquer (Screens and Renders: 02/25/13)

Continue reading Navigating the free-to-play landscape in Command & Conquer

JoystiqNavigating the free-to-play landscape in Command & Conquer originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Feb 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>command-and-conquer-2013command-and-conquer-generals-2EAElectronic-ArtsF2Pfree-to-playpcVictory-GamesMon, 25 Feb 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Uncharted 3 multiplayer going free-to-play]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/25/rumor-uncharted-3-multiplayer-going-free-to-play/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/25/rumor-uncharted-3-multiplayer-going-free-to-play/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/25/rumor-uncharted-3-multiplayer-going-free-to-play/#comments It seems the competitive world of Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception is expanding to the realm of free-to-play.

According to a post on the official PlayStation Blog detailing upcoming PSN releases, a heading revealed the multiplayer component of the latest Uncharted title would be free-to-play; information found under the apt heading "Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception Multiplayer (Free to Play)."

No further details were revealed and the section has since been removed from the official PlayStation blog's post. In a year-end post on Naughty Dog's official blog, the company promised "very exciting information about multiplayer" was coming in 2013.

Joystiq has contacted Sony for comment and will update this story as more information becomes available.

JoystiqRumor: Uncharted 3 multiplayer going free-to-play originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Feb 2013 02:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>F2PFree-to-PlayNaughty-Dogplaystationps3SCEASonyuncharted-3uncharted-3-drakes-deceptionMon, 25 Feb 2013 02:15:00 EST<![CDATA[MechWarrior Online gets biggest map ever, new matchmaking system in latest update]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/22/mechwarrior-online-gets-biggest-map-ever-new-matchmaking-system/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/22/mechwarrior-online-gets-biggest-map-ever-new-matchmaking-system/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/22/mechwarrior-online-gets-biggest-map-ever-new-matchmaking-system/#comments MechWarrior Online gets biggest map ever, new matchmaking system in latest updateFree-to-play shooter MechWarrior Online has added a new update to the game, this one containing the biggest map yet. The environment is called Alpine Peaks, and features lots of cold, open areas, separated by some very tall high ground. In addition to the new map, the update also includes five new versions of a mech called the Trebuchet, which specializes in long range combat and carries medium weight.

Finally, the newest update also adds in what Pirahna Games is calling "Phase 3" of the matchmaking system, which will allow players of the same skill to find and compete against each other in a balanced way, despite what mech they're driving. The new system also allows for cosmetic holograms in the cockpit, so you can now show off any House Faction loyalties you happen to have. Us, we're partial to Winterfell, but -- oh wait, wrong setting. At any rate, the update is now live on the servers, so go get that Mech a Warrior-in'!

JoystiqMechWarrior Online gets biggest map ever, new matchmaking system in latest update originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Feb 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alpine-peaksfree-to-playmatchmakingmechwarriormechwarrior-onlinepatchpcphase-3-matchmakingpirahna-gamesshooterupdateFri, 22 Feb 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tribes: Ascend GOTY Edition takes off Feb. 15, includes all unlocks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/13/tribes-ascend-goty-edition-takes-off-feb-15-includes-all-unlo/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/13/tribes-ascend-goty-edition-takes-off-feb-15-includes-all-unlo/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/13/tribes-ascend-goty-edition-takes-off-feb-15-includes-all-unlo/#comments
You might be wondering how a free-to-play game like Tribes: Ascend could even have a Game of the Year Edition. The answer, it turns out, is quite simple: Just unlock every class, weapon and perk for one price. Come February 15, players will be able to plunk down $30 to unlock everything Tribes: Ascend has to offer. Alternatively, current Tribes: Ascend VIPs will be able to pick up the package for $20. Even more alternatively, you can still play the game for free, choosing to purchase bits and pieces or simply unlocking things the old-fashioned way.

Finally, a patch will be released alongside the GOTY Edition, featuring six maps, a new Shocklance weapon and some new skins.

Continue reading Tribes: Ascend GOTY Edition takes off Feb. 15, includes all unlocks

JoystiqTribes: Ascend GOTY Edition takes off Feb. 15, includes all unlocks originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 Feb 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>free-to-playhi-rez-studiospcrelease-datetribes-ascendtribes-ascend-game-of-the-year-editionWed, 13 Feb 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tank! Tank! Tank! goes free-to-play in Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/12/tank-tank-tank-goes-free-to-play-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/12/tank-tank-tank-goes-free-to-play-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/12/tank-tank-tank-goes-free-to-play-in-europe/#comments For the Japanese release of Tank! Tank! Tank!, Namco Bandai opted for a free-to-play approach, releasing a segment of the game free on the eShop and selling the rest of it as microtransactions. Following the European retail launch, Namco has announced plans to re-release the game as F2P in that region as well.

The base download will include Monster Battle, Free-For-All, and Team Versus modes, playable up to three times. The first add-on includes the entertaining My Kong mode, temporarily discounted 80% to €1.99 /£1.59 through February 28.

While the piecemeal sale may not be ideal, a free demo is. We strongly suggest trying before you buy.

JoystiqTank! Tank! Tank! goes free-to-play in Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Feb 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eshopeuropefree-to-playnintendotank-tank-tankwii-uTue, 12 Feb 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Yerli: Crytek plans to be fully free-to-play within 5 years]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/10/yerli-crytek-plans-to-be-fully-free-to-play-within-5-years/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/10/yerli-crytek-plans-to-be-fully-free-to-play-within-5-years/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/10/yerli-crytek-plans-to-be-fully-free-to-play-within-5-years/#comments Yerli delves deeper into Crytek's freetoplay, game service transitionCrytek's plan to transition to free-to-play games includes expanding the studio's role as a service provider, building upon the GFace gaming platform, CEO Cevat Yerli tells Venture Beat. Crytek should be fully free-to-play within five years, he says.

"We decided five or six years ago that we want to marry the quality of triple-A games with the business model of free-to-play," Yerli says. "And at that time, we decided some other games, in some of our other studios, would head in this direction. But we kept pushing the quality bar higher on our console business, which is the main dominating business for the Western world, but we are observing, plainly - and we see this already with Warface - that the free-to-play market is on the rise. I think over the next two to three years, free-to-play is going to rival retail with quality games like Warface."

Crytek as a business will "transition from a developer to a service company" and will offer GFace to any developer that needs it, Yerli says.

"If we could launch our games on a platform that already exists today, and we could get the same results, then we wouldn't build our own platform," he says. "But we're convinced that our platform does some particularly new things that makes our games behave better. That's why we plan to offer this service to third parties."

In 2012, Yerli laid down plans to transition to free-to-play, though he didn't provide a timeline or any service goals at the time. Still, GFace won't become the new focus at Crytek, Yerli says:

"This doesn't mean our main business will be driven by our platform business. We are just going to open it up and see how it works. We are always going to be a games-first company. We will always have our own development because we are all about making games. We provide technology, but technology is not our main driver. We make technology to make great games."

JoystiqYerli: Crytek plans to be fully free-to-play within 5 years originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 10 Feb 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cevat-yerliCrytekfree-to-playgfacepcwarfaceSun, 10 Feb 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Crytek opens Istanbul (not Constantinople) studio]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/20/crytek-opens-istanbul-not-constantinople-studio/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/20/crytek-opens-istanbul-not-constantinople-studio/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/20/crytek-opens-istanbul-not-constantinople-studio/#comments Crytek recently announced the opening of its eighth studio, Crytek Istanbul. The Turkish studio will support Crytek's free-to-play ambitions as well as the Warface and Gface brands.

While Crytek's primary headquarters are located in Germany, its three founders are Turkish brothers: Avni, Faruk and Cevat Yerli, the latter being the developer's CEO. Cevat Yerli recently stressed that Crysis 3 will not make its way to Wii U.

JoystiqCrytek opens Istanbul (not Constantinople) studio originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 20 Jan 2013 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cevat-yerliCrytekcrytek-istanbulfree-to-playgfaceistanbul-not-constantinopleopeningstudiowarfaceSun, 20 Jan 2013 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Call of Duty now Online in China, monetization not ready yet]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/15/call-of-duty-now-online-in-china-monetization-not-ready-yet/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/15/call-of-duty-now-online-in-china-monetization-not-ready-yet/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/15/call-of-duty-now-online-in-china-monetization-not-ready-yet/#comments Call of Duty Online launches in ChinaAn alpha version of Call of Duty Online - the China-exclusive, free-to-play game based on the Activision shooter - is now live, Kotaku reports. Monetization systems for the game (i.e. those sweet, sweet microtransactions) are unavailable in its current form; however, Call of Duty Online is playable in the region.

Call of Duty Online was announced by Activision last year and pairs the western publisher with China investment holdings firm Tencent, a company that offers social networks, e-commerce, multiplayer online games and more within the country.

China has a rich history with freemium video game experiences, including Tencent's own hugely successful Cross Fire. But if a brand as large as Call of Duty strikes gold in China, we may see other popular franchises form-fitted to work in the region's microtransaction-focused industry.

JoystiqCall of Duty now Online in China, monetization not ready yet originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Jan 2013 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisioncall-of-duty-onlinechinachinesecross-firefree-to-playmicrotransactionpcshootershooterstencentTue, 15 Jan 2013 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Zynga shutting down 11 games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/02/zynga-shutting-down-11-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/02/zynga-shutting-down-11-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/02/zynga-shutting-down-11-games/#comments As part of ongoing efforts to cut costs and get back on track, Zynga is pulling the plug on 11 of its games, reports TechCrunch. The site reports that these games have all either been pulled from their respective app stores, shut down or are no longer accepting new players. Notable games being sent to the glue factoryville include Mafia Wars 2, PetVille and Indiana Jones Adventure World.

Among these games are also most of those operated by Zynga Japan, including Machitsuku, Mojitomo and Montopia. Zynga announced the studio's closure last month.

JoystiqZynga shutting down 11 games originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Jan 2013 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidfree-to-playiosipadiphonemobilepczyngaWed, 02 Jan 2013 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Puzzle & Dragons now available on Android]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/15/puzzle-and-dragons-now-available-on-android/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/15/puzzle-and-dragons-now-available-on-android/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/15/puzzle-and-dragons-now-available-on-android/#comments
You guys are never going to guess what Puzzle & Dragons is about. Not in a million years. Want a hint? Well it's got something to do with ... Oh, no that's totally right, yeah. Puzzles and dragons. Good guess.

Originally released for iOS back in November, Puzzle & Dragon is now available on the Google Play store for Android devices in South Korea and North America. The free-to-play puzzle/RPG is an equal parts Bejeweled, Puzzle Fighter and Pokemon cocktail, with players capturing (and evolving) teams of monsters in order to do battle against other monsters. Damage is done by successfully matching groups of colored gems, as seen in the trailer above.

Puzzle & Dragon's microtransactional hook comes in the form of Magic Stones, which, once purchased, can be used to restore health, obtain rare monsters and restart failed dungeons, among other uses.

Gallery: Puzzle & Dragons (12/15/12)

Continue reading Puzzle & Dragons now available on Android

JoystiqPuzzle & Dragons now available on Android originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 15 Dec 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidfree-to-playGungHoGungHo-Online-EntertainmentmicrotransactionsmobilePuzzle-and-DragonsSat, 15 Dec 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Galcon 2: Galactic Conquest hits Kickstarter]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/09/galcon-2-galactic-conquest-hits-kickstarter/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/09/galcon-2-galactic-conquest-hits-kickstarter/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/09/galcon-2-galactic-conquest-hits-kickstarter/#comments
The sequel to space-themed RTS Galcon recently landed on Kickstarter. The series' creator Phil Hassey first made Galcon in 1995, and continued improving and re-releasing the game over the years with standout versions available on iOS and Android.

Hassey recently took to Kickstarter to fund development on the game's true sequel, Galcon 2: Galactic Conquest. The sequel would include expanded modes, an auto-match feature for online play, a trophy system and clan support. Hassey's goal is to launch the free-to-play game on PC, Mac and Linux, with plans to port it to iOS and high-end Android devices. The Kickstarter project is seeking $23,099 by January 7.

JoystiqGalcon 2: Galactic Conquest hits Kickstarter originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 09 Dec 2012 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidfree-to-playgalcongalcon-2galcon-2-galactic-conquestiosipadiphonekickstarterLinuxmacmobilepcphil-hasseyRTSSun, 09 Dec 2012 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MechWarrior Online gets 'Mechsgiving' update]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/21/mechwarrior-online-gets-mechsgiving-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/21/mechwarrior-online-gets-mechsgiving-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/21/mechwarrior-online-gets-mechsgiving-update/#comments MechWarrior Online gets 'Mechsgiving' update, with new mech and equipmentMechWarrior Online finally went into Open Beta late last month, and the team isn't wasting any time updating the game with new content. They're asking players to celebrate "Mechsgiving" later this week with a new mech called the Cataphract, which features a solid offense combined with jump jets and plenty of armor.

The update introduces the "Frozen City at Night" environment, along with new modules for targeting and the Beagle Active Probe, which can increase a mech's sensor range.

The folks at Pirahna Games will show the content live on Twitch.tv tomorrow, November 21 at 6pm PST, and invite players to jump in with them during that time. Pictures of the Cataphract (and its four variants) are in the gallery below.

Gallery: MechWarrior Online (Cataphract Mechs)

JoystiqMechWarrior Online gets 'Mechsgiving' update originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Nov 2012 04:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contentdevelopersequipmentfree-to-playmechmechwarrior-onlinepcpirahna-gamesstreamingtwitch-tvWed, 21 Nov 2012 04:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Hawken's final closed beta begins this week, open beta starts Dec. 12]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/20/hawkens-final-closed-beta-begins-this-week-open-beta-starts-de/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/20/hawkens-final-closed-beta-begins-this-week-open-beta-starts-de/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/20/hawkens-final-closed-beta-begins-this-week-open-beta-starts-de/#comments Hawken's final closed beta begins this week, open beta starts December 12Hawken has begun its third and final closed beta event, starting this week and going through until December 6. Players already invited can download the client from the official website, jump in and start shooting. You won't need to re-install, the developer says, if you've played in a previous closed beta event.

Meteor Entertainment has presale packs available for the free-to-play shooter, with boosts and extra equipment available for those who know they're ready to spend some cash. But if you're not yet sold (or haven't gotten a chance to play), the game will go into Open Beta and become available to the public on December 12.

JoystiqHawken's final closed beta begins this week, open beta starts Dec. 12 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Nov 2012 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>closed-betafree-to-playhawkenmeteor-entertainmentopen-betapcpresaleTue, 20 Nov 2012 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light now stationed on Core Online]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/14/lara-croft-and-the-guardian-of-light-now-stationed-on-core-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/14/lara-croft-and-the-guardian-of-light-now-stationed-on-core-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/14/lara-croft-and-the-guardian-of-light-now-stationed-on-core-online/#comments Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light now stationed on CoreonlineLara Croft and the Guardian of Light has made the jump to Core Online, Square Enix's recently unveiled cloud gaming platform. It's the third game to find its way there, with Hitman: Blood Money and Mini Ninjas made available at launch. Core Online is accessible via Firefox, Internet Explorer, and Chrome, making Guardian of Light available to Mac users.

Lara Croft's 2010 jaunt into isometric puzzling is free-to-play through Core Online, but only if you're okay with having play interrupted by ads. The service's help page indicates ads should generally appear every 20 minutes, as long as you watch a full minute of sponsored messages at each interruption. On our testing we were offered a selection of three ads, each with different running times. 1 minute and 14 seconds of a Mini Ninjas ad gave us 25 minutes playing time.

If you prefer raiding tombs without people intermittently trying to sell you stuff, you can remove ads from the full game for $9.99, or from individual missions for $0.99 each.

JoystiqLara Croft and the Guardian of Light now stationed on Core Online originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Nov 2012 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>coreonlinecrystal-dynamicsfree-to-playlara-croft-and-the-guardian-of-lightmacpcrelease-datesquare-enixWed, 14 Nov 2012 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Crytek's franchise getting more 'flexible' after Crysis 3, possibly F2P]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/12/cryteks-franchise-getting-more-flexible-after-crysis-3-possi/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/12/cryteks-franchise-getting-more-flexible-after-crysis-3-possi/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/12/cryteks-franchise-getting-more-flexible-after-crysis-3-possi/#comments Though the tale of Prophet, the guy underneath the nanosuit, will conclude with Crysis 3, Crytek is hardly ready to call it quits on that universe. Cevat Yerli, CEO and President of Crytek, says it "doesn't mean it's the end of the franchise." In fact, Crytek is already in the initial stages of developing the next Crysis game.

"There can be literally tonnes of titles out there within the franchise," Yerli told Eurogamer. "Unlike Far Cry, this time around we feel very flexible about Crysis." Yerli says that calling the next game Crysis 4 "would be misleading" since it would "imply the story just moves on" after Crysis 3.

"We do have a plan for a F2P version of Crysis, but how this looks and when this will be done, whether this is the next one or the next next one, is to be decided," Yerli added. "But we have a very clear picture of how this will look in a transitional period where retail and free-to-play can coexist for one title."

JoystiqCrytek's franchise getting more 'flexible' after Crysis 3, possibly F2P originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Nov 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cevat-yerlicrysiscrysis-2crysis-3crytekeaf2pfree-to-playmicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxMon, 12 Nov 2012 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Connecting worlds with Dust 514 and CCP chief marketing officer David Reid]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/09/connecting-worlds-with-dust-514-and-ccp-chief-marketing-officer/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/09/connecting-worlds-with-dust-514-and-ccp-chief-marketing-officer/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/09/connecting-worlds-with-dust-514-and-ccp-chief-marketing-officer/#comments There is no road map for taking a first-person shooter and injecting it into an existing MMO universe, so developer CCP Games is attempting to draw one. Combining the worlds of the (extraordinarily intimidating) cult hit EVE Online and its upcoming, self-published free-to-play console shooter Dust 514 isn't as easy as tying a narrative thread between both games, there's a sensitive balance the developer has to consider.

"If there's anything about EVE that's particularly notorious, it's the fidelity of its virtual economy. You can equate the loss of a giant ship in EVE to some real world amount of money, just based on the time and effort it takes to build," CCP Chief Marketing Officer David Reid tells Joystiq.

Reid says that because EVE's in-game economy is so unique, it's essential for the developer to introduce changing aspects - like a completely different game's economy - gradually. Currently in closed beta, Dust 514 is testing its in-game links to EVE Online, but it's a careful play of checks and balances and minuscule tweaks that will make the games work well in tandem.

Gallery: Dust 514 (8/21/12)

Continue reading Connecting worlds with Dust 514 and CCP chief marketing officer David Reid

JoystiqConnecting worlds with Dust 514 and CCP chief marketing officer David Reid originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 Nov 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CCP-Gamesdust-514Free-to-Playplaystationps3Fri, 09 Nov 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Neverwinter's magic spells are pretty wizard]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/07/neverwinters-magic-spells-are-pretty-wizard/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/07/neverwinters-magic-spells-are-pretty-wizard/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/07/neverwinters-magic-spells-are-pretty-wizard/#comments Cryptic Studios and Atari Perfect World Entertainment have shared both the video above and the gallery below, both designed to show you what the upcoming Neverwinter's Control Wizard class is capable of. As you can see in the video especially, the spells are heavily inspired by pen-and-paper Dungeons and Dragons, and the game will have you casting old favorites like Magic Missile, Ray of Frost, and the destructive Ice Storm.

You can also see a few other 4th Edition D&D mainstays, including Tiefling heroes (they're the ones with the horns) and some NPC zombies and skeletons. The free-to-play MMO is set to be released early next year.

Gallery: Neverwinter (Wizard)

JoystiqNeverwinter's magic spells are pretty wizard originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Nov 2012 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4th-editioncryptic-studiosdungeons-and-dragonsfree-to-playmagic-missilemmoneverwinterpcpen-and-paperperfect-world-entertainmentray-of-frostspellswizardWed, 07 Nov 2012 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix launches free-to-play 'Wizardlings' RPG on iOS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/28/square-enix-launches-free-to-play-wizardlings-rpg-on-ios/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/28/square-enix-launches-free-to-play-wizardlings-rpg-on-ios/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/28/square-enix-launches-free-to-play-wizardlings-rpg-on-ios/#comments
Square Enix registered a number of trademarks back in September, including one for "Wizardlings." While it didn't garner as much discussion as the "Circle of Mana" trademark the company filed, it did turn out to be a free-to-play mobile RPG that released this week on iOS.

Described as a "casual tap adventure," Wizardlings has players fighting enemies to unveil the bright land of Skywind hidden beneath darkness. Check out the game's launch trailer above, or head straight to the App Store to play it. Of course, you can do both. We won't stop you.

JoystiqSquare Enix launches free-to-play 'Wizardlings' RPG on iOS originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 28 Oct 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>free-to-playiosipadiphonemobilerpgSquare-EnixwizardlingsSun, 28 Oct 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rock of Ages F2P on Steam this weekend, celebrates spooky times]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/25/rock-of-ages-f2p-on-steam-this-weekend-celebrates-spooky-times/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/25/rock-of-ages-f2p-on-steam-this-weekend-celebrates-spooky-times/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/25/rock-of-ages-f2p-on-steam-this-weekend-celebrates-spooky-times/#comments Rock of Ages free weekend, 75 percent off on Steam, Halloween stuffRock of Ages is joining the season fun with a PC update that includes a redesigned matchmaking system, the ability to practice against the AI while waiting for online opponents, and most importantly of all, a new ghost boulder with cool cloth physics. That's right - cool cloth physics. Tell your friends.

The update also includes other Halloweeny treats, such as a jack-o-lantern GUI and tiny themed characters surrounding defensive units.

Rock of Ages has a free weekend on Steam now through Sunday, October 28, at 1 p.m. PT, and is 75 percent off (that's just $2.50) through Monday, October 29. Rock and roll out!

JoystiqRock of Ages F2P on Steam this weekend, celebrates spooky times originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Oct 2012 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>free-to-playfree-weekendhalloweenpcrock-of-agessaleSTEAMThu, 25 Oct 2012 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlefield Heroes gets new map, weapons with special Halloween content]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/21/battlefield-heroes-gets-new-map-weapons-with-special-halloween/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/21/battlefield-heroes-gets-new-map-weapons-with-special-halloween/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/21/battlefield-heroes-gets-new-map-weapons-with-special-halloween/#comments
EA's free-to-play Battlefield Heroes shooter is going trick-or-treating with a new set of Halloween content, as seen in the trailer above and the gallery below. The holiday update will bring a brand new map called the Perilous Port, as well as new Machete weapons, and a few different spooky items and outfits to wear.

There are also some new rewards to earn: Winning 10 games on the new map on ranked servers will earn you a faction-specific Halloween t-shirt, and there are also Trick or Treat-themed supply drops, with random chances to win other great stuff. Additionally, all of the other Halloween content from the game's previous years is back online as well, so jump on in and have yourself a frighteningly fun time.

Gallery: Battlefield Heroes (Halloween 2012)

JoystiqBattlefield Heroes gets new map, weapons with special Halloween content originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 21 Oct 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-heroescostumeseafree-to-playfunhalloweenholidaypcperilous-portseasonaltrick-or-treatSun, 21 Oct 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mann vs Machine update adds new difficulty settings and matchmaking options]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/11/mann-vs-machine-update-adds-new-difficulty-settings-and-matchmak/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/11/mann-vs-machine-update-adds-new-difficulty-settings-and-matchmak/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/11/mann-vs-machine-update-adds-new-difficulty-settings-and-matchmak/#comments Mann vs Machine update adds new difficulty settings and matchmaking optionsValve has released a big update to Team Fortress 2's 'Mann vs. Machine' game mode this week, which of course pits human players against an army of invading robots. The update adds two new difficulty settings called tours, one tougher and one easier than the current mode, along with some new loot found throughout the two tours.

Players will also be able to search for multiple missions or tours at a time. Matchmaking updates should make it easier to find and keep groups while playing: once you find a team and defeat a mission, teams will stay together. Good thing, too - those robot hordes aren't going to destroy themselves.

JoystiqMann vs Machine update adds new difficulty settings and matchmaking options originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Oct 2012 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>difficultyfree-to-playlootmann-vs-machinematchmakingpcsettingsshooterTeam-Fortress-2toursupdatevalveThu, 11 Oct 2012 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MechWarrior Online Founders' Program ends soon, open beta next week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/10/mechwarrior-online-founders-program-ends-soon-open-beta-next-w/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/10/mechwarrior-online-founders-program-ends-soon-open-beta-next-w/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/10/mechwarrior-online-founders-program-ends-soon-open-beta-next-w/#comments MechWarrior Online open beta next weekJoystiq got to see MechWarrior Online in its closed beta at PAX Prime a few months ago, and the game was coming along nicely: a little light on the fast-paced shooter action and heavy on the MechWarrior-based customization options and battle mechanics. Infinite Game Publishing and Piranha Games have announced that MWO is headed into an open beta next week.

Players interested in playing can sign up on the MechWarrior Online website to reserve a name right now, and anyone looking to spend a little money on the free-to-play shooter (based, of course, on the tabletop strategy game) can join the Founders' Program, which offers various tiers of premium rewards. The Founders' Program will finish up on October 14, with the open beta following soon after.

Continue reading MechWarrior Online Founders' Program ends soon, open beta next week

JoystiqMechWarrior Online Founders' Program ends soon, open beta next week originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Oct 2012 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fpsfree-to-playinfinite-game-publishingmechwarriormechwarrior-onlinemmomwoonlinepcpirahna-gamesWed, 10 Oct 2012 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Phantasy Star Online 2 is free-to-play on Vita]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/26/phantasy-star-online-2-is-free-to-play-on-vita/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/26/phantasy-star-online-2-is-free-to-play-on-vita/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/26/phantasy-star-online-2-is-free-to-play-on-vita/#comments
Phantasy Star Online 2's Vita version will also be free-to-play when it comes to Japan next spring. The PSO2 team revealed this information during a presentation at Tokyo Game Show, translated by the Phantasy Star Fan Blog. Vita players will be able to play with users of the PC version, but only certain lobbies will be available to both.

Sega hasn't announced whether the Vita version will be free-to-play in the West, as Sega has yet to announce any availability for the Vita version in the West.

JoystiqPhantasy Star Online 2 is free-to-play on Vita originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 Sep 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>free-to-playphantasy-star-online-2playstationplaystation-vitasegatgs-2012vitaWed, 26 Sep 2012 16:30:00 EST