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[Borderlands 2 'Krieg' short is the shiniest meat bicycle]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/31/borderlands-2-krieg-short-is-the-shiniest-meat-bicycle/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/31/borderlands-2-krieg-short-is-the-shiniest-meat-bicycle/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/31/borderlands-2-krieg-short-is-the-shiniest-meat-bicycle/#comments
We feel for Krieg, the recently introduced sixth vault hunter in Borderlands 2. His calm inner voice fights to be heard, while his psychotic outer voice screams things like "I'm the conductor of the poop train!" This short has its funny moments, but it's also quite sad.

While Krieg's already available, Borderlands 2 is due another piece of DLC in the form of Tiny Tina's Assault on Dragon's Keep. That arrives on June 25 for 800 MSP/$10.

JoystiqBorderlands 2 'Krieg' short is the shiniest meat bicycle originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 31 May 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesborderlands-2gearboxgearbox-softwarekriegmicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxFri, 31 May 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Borderlands 2: At the table with Tiny Tina's Assault on Dragon's Keep]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/30/borderlands-2-at-the-table-with-tiny-tinas-assault-on-dragons/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/30/borderlands-2-at-the-table-with-tiny-tinas-assault-on-dragons/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/30/borderlands-2-at-the-table-with-tiny-tinas-assault-on-dragons/#comments "What's initiative?" asks Brick, the hulking bruiser from the original Borderlands. He's seated with Mordecai, Lilith and Tina, all hunched over a table-top roleplaying game - not unlike Dungeons & Dragons - called Bunkers and Badasses.

As the tabletop game gets underway, players are thrust into "Tiny Tina's Assault on Dragon's Keep," the latest DLC campaign for Borderlands 2.

Gallery: Borderlands 2 - Tiny Tina's Assault on Dragon's Keep

Continue reading Borderlands 2: At the table with Tiny Tina's Assault on Dragon's Keep

JoystiqBorderlands 2: At the table with Tiny Tina's Assault on Dragon's Keep originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 May 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesanthony-burchborderlands-2gearboxmicrosoftpaul-hellquistpcplaystationps3tiny-tinas-assault-on-dragon-keepxboxThu, 30 May 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Borderlands 2's playable Krieg the Psycho available today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/psa-borderlands-2s-playable-krieg-the-psycho-available-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/psa-borderlands-2s-playable-krieg-the-psycho-available-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/psa-borderlands-2s-playable-krieg-the-psycho-available-today/#comments
Borderlands 2's sixth vault hunter, Krieg the Psycho Bandit, is now available across Xbox 360, PS3 and PC for $10. The latest playable character is not part of the Borderlands 2 Season Pass, so don't go thinking grabbing that will net the psycho. Gearbox covered Krieg's skill tree during PAX East, which features more melee and fire upgrades.

Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick mentioned during a recent investor call Borderlands 2 has shipped over 6 million units and "remains on track to become the highest selling release in the history of 2K."

Continue reading PSA: Borderlands 2's playable Krieg the Psycho available today

JoystiqPSA: Borderlands 2's playable Krieg the Psycho available today originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 May 2013 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>borderlands-2gearboxgearbox-softwaremicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxTue, 14 May 2013 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Krieg the Psycho Bandit joins Borderlands 2 on May 14]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/krieg-the-psycho-bandit-joins-borderlands-2-on-may-14/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/krieg-the-psycho-bandit-joins-borderlands-2-on-may-14/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/krieg-the-psycho-bandit-joins-borderlands-2-on-may-14/#commentsKrieg the Psycho Bandit joins Borderlands 2 May 14 Borderlands 2 will add its sixth Vault Hunter, Krieg the Psycho Bandit, to its ranks on May 14. The date for the DLC was announced in a tweet posted earlier today.

Krieg is the second DLC character added to Borderlands 2, joining Gaige the Mechromancer. Gearbox went into more detail about Krieg's skill trees back at PAX East, revealing him to be a more melee-focused character with fire-based skills.

JoystiqKrieg the Psycho Bandit joins Borderlands 2 on May 14 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 May 2013 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesborderlands-2gearboxmacmicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxMon, 06 May 2013 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Next Borderlands 2 DLC is 'Tiny Tina's Assault on Dragon Keep,' coming June 25]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/02/next-borderlands-2-dlc-is-tiny-tinas-assault-on-dragon-keep/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/02/next-borderlands-2-dlc-is-tiny-tinas-assault-on-dragon-keep/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/02/next-borderlands-2-dlc-is-tiny-tinas-assault-on-dragon-keep/#comments Coming DLC for Borderlands 2 will be called "Tiny Tina's Assault on Dragon Keep." It will launch on June 25 as the fourth pack included in the game's Season Pass, or for $10 (800 MSP) standalone, Gearbox confirmed to Joystiq.

The name of the fourth DLC pack was leaked today in a now-deleted tweet from Gearbox writer Anthony Burch, a screen of which was saved by Stealthy Box. Tiny Tina's Assault on Dragon Keep features Tiny Tina herself as the host of a board game.

Continue reading Next Borderlands 2 DLC is 'Tiny Tina's Assault on Dragon Keep,' coming June 25

JoystiqNext Borderlands 2 DLC is 'Tiny Tina's Assault on Dragon Keep,' coming June 25 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 May 2013 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-GamesAnthony-Burchborderlands-2dlcgearboxgearbox-softwaremicrosoftpcplaystationps3tiny-tinas-assault-on-dragon-keepxboxThu, 02 May 2013 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Homeworld intellectual property purchased by Gearbox Software]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/22/homeworld-gearbox-ip-purchase/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/22/homeworld-gearbox-ip-purchase/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/22/homeworld-gearbox-ip-purchase/#comments Homeworld IP purchased by GearboxGearbox Software, best known for the Borderlands series, has purchased the rights to the Homeworld intellectual property during the recent THQ back catalog auction round.

Gearbox Chief Creative Officer Brian Martel has "great love and respect for Relic's brilliant, fun and innovative game and personally spearheaded the acquisition," according to a studio statement.

The company's subspace communication continues: "Brian intends as first priority to direct Gearbox's interest to preserve and assemble the purest form of the original acclaimed and beloved games, Homeworld and Homeworld 2, with the intent of making them accessible on today's leading digital platforms."

The Homeworld series was originally developed by Relic Entertainment, which was purchased by Sega during a previous round of the THQ bankruptcy auctions.

It is unclear at this time if Sega bid on Homeworld. We do know that Galactic Civilization developer and Sins of a Solar Empire publisher Stardock was in the running. CEO Brad Wardell tweeted us, "I'm surprised. I was wondering who had outbid us. It'll be interesting to see what they do with it. As long as I get [Homeworld 3]!"

JoystiqHomeworld intellectual property purchased by Gearbox Software originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 22 Apr 2013 14:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gearboxgearbox-softwarepcRelicRelic-Entertainmentthqthq-bankruptcyMon, 22 Apr 2013 14:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Aliens: Colonial Marines for Wii U 'no longer in development']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/05/aliens-colonial-marines-wii-u-canceled/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/05/aliens-colonial-marines-wii-u-canceled/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/05/aliens-colonial-marines-wii-u-canceled/#comments Aliens Colonial Marines for Wii U misses launch window, Sega declines commentThe Wii U version of Aliens: Colonial Marines is game overed, man.

"Sega can confirm that the Wii U SKU of Aliens: Colonial Marines is no longer in development," a company representative has informed Joystiq.

Discomfort over the game's heartbeat rose this week after the title missed its first quarter launch window and publisher Sega was unable to confirm an updated status. Aliens: Colonial Marines currently stands as one of the worst-reviewed games of the year.

JoystiqAliens: Colonial Marines for Wii U 'no longer in development' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 05 Apr 2013 13:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aliens-colonial-marinesdemiurgedemiurge-studiosgearboxgearbox-softwarenintendosegawii-uFri, 05 Apr 2013 13:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Borderlands 2 straps in for a big 'ol Mac update today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/04/borderlands-2-straps-in-for-a-big-ol-mac-update-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/04/borderlands-2-straps-in-for-a-big-ol-mac-update-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/04/borderlands-2-straps-in-for-a-big-ol-mac-update-today/#comments Borderlands 2 gets big ol' Mac update todayBorderlands 2 secured a hefty update on Mac today, adding leaderboards, achievements and multiplayer co-op, Mac-to-Mac style. Let's keep it in the family, guys.

The update brings five DLC packs available via in-app purchases, including Sir Hammerlock's Big Game Hunt, Captain Scarlett and her Pirate's Booty, Mr. Torgue's Campaign of Carnage and the Mechromancer, a fifth playable vault hunter. PC and Xbox 360 players got the Mechromancer in October 2012, with PS3 not far behind.

Borderlands 2 is on sale for half off, at $30, for a limited time on the Mac App Store.

Continue reading Borderlands 2 straps in for a big 'ol Mac update today

JoystiqBorderlands 2 straps in for a big 'ol Mac update today originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Apr 2013 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>app-storeaspyrborderlands-2gearboxmacmac-app-storeupdateThu, 04 Apr 2013 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Aliens: Colonial Marines for Wii U misses launch window, Sega declines comment]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/04/aliens-colonial-marines-for-wii-u-misses-launch-window-sega-de/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/04/aliens-colonial-marines-for-wii-u-misses-launch-window-sega-de/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/04/aliens-colonial-marines-for-wii-u-misses-launch-window-sega-de/#comments Aliens Colonial Marines for Wii U misses launch window, Sega declines commentThe Wii U version of Aliens: Colonial Marines missed its first quarter launch window at the designated retail rendezvous point and its fate is currently in question. Gamespot asked Sega yesterday if there was a new debut date for the year's highest profile disaster (you're welcome, SimCity) for the Nintendo console and the publisher responded, "Still no comment on ACM, sorry!"

Gamespot notes this is the third time the publisher has refused a status update and Demiurge, the developer tasked with the Wii U version, isn't talking. Randy Pitchford, CEO of Gearbox Software (which put its name on the box for the other console versions), was also unsure last month if the Wii U version was coming out, noting it was Sega's decision.

JoystiqAliens: Colonial Marines for Wii U misses launch window, Sega declines comment originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Apr 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aliens-colonial-marinesdemiurgedemiurge-studiosgearboxgearbox-softwarenintendosegawii-uThu, 04 Apr 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Borderlands 2 getting new class, level cap raise in the next few months]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/24/borderlands-2-getting-new-class-level-cap-raise-in-the-next-few/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/24/borderlands-2-getting-new-class-level-cap-raise-in-the-next-few/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/24/borderlands-2-getting-new-class-level-cap-raise-in-the-next-few/#comments

The new Vault Hunter for Borderlands 2, teased at SXSW, has been revealed at PAX East. Krieg the Psycho will be the game's sixth playable class, and you can see a quick teaser of what he looks and plays like in the video above.

He's primarily a melee character, but has a few ranged abilities and can skill up in the Bloodlust tree (focused on combat bonuses), go insane with the Mania tree, or break out fire-based attacks with the Hellborn tree. Krieg is part of the Psycho Pack, which will be available in May for $9.99, or 800 Microsoft points.

On April 2, Borderlands 2 will get the Ultimate Vault Hunter Upgrade pack ($5, or 400 MSP), which will raise the game's level cap from 50 up to 61. Unlike the Psycho Pack, it will be part of the game's Season Pass content and unlock a third playthrough in the "Ultimate Vault Hunter mode."

Finally, Gearbox teased the game's last piece of campaign DLC at its panel, which it simply said was due out sometime in June.

Gallery: Borderlands 2 - Krieg the Psycho

Continue reading Borderlands 2 getting new class, level cap raise in the next few months

JoystiqBorderlands 2 getting new class, level cap raise in the next few months originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 24 Mar 2013 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>borderlands-2gearboxkrieg-the-psycholevel-caplevel-cap-increaselevel-cap-raisemicrosoftpax-eastpax-east-2013pcplayable-classplaystationps3ultimate-vault-hunter-modexboxSun, 24 Mar 2013 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Aliens: Colonial Marines patch fixes a lot of things, even the flamethrower]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/18/aliens-colonial-marines-patch-fixes-a-lot-of-things-even-the-f/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/18/aliens-colonial-marines-patch-fixes-a-lot-of-things-even-the-f/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/18/aliens-colonial-marines-patch-fixes-a-lot-of-things-even-the-f/#comments Aliens Colonial Marines gets huge 38GB patch on PCClean up on aisle Aliens: Colonial Marines - Sega launched a patch to address a few of the issues in Colonial Marines, including various visual improvements, improved texture resolution, audio fixes, increased enemy and friendly AI responsiveness, modified enemy collision detection and NPC navigation, fixed spawning issues, removal of the ability to walk outside of maps, and many more, listed in full below.

Our favorite from this extensive list has to be, "Addressed an issue where Ripley's Flamethrower (bonus content) would sometimes fire continuously without player input." The update should automatically install on Steam, so unfortunately there's no way to keep that particular glitch (feature?) in your game.

When Colonial Marines launched in February, we found it to be a broken, unfinished mess, and most others agreed. Since it hit stores, developers Gearbox, TimeGate and publisher Sega have yet to agree where the blame lies. TimeGate let go 25 people in early March.

Continue reading Aliens: Colonial Marines patch fixes a lot of things, even the flamethrower

JoystiqAliens: Colonial Marines patch fixes a lot of things, even the flamethrower originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Mar 2013 21:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aliens-colonial-marinesgearboxpatchpcSegaSTEAMTimeGate-StudiosupdateMon, 18 Mar 2013 21:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Gearbox details the evolution of the playable Borderlands cast]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/12/gearbox-details-the-evolution-of-the-playable-borderlands-cast/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/12/gearbox-details-the-evolution-of-the-playable-borderlands-cast/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/12/gearbox-details-the-evolution-of-the-playable-borderlands-cast/#comments Gearbox previews the original heroes of BorderlandsDuring a panel at the SXSW Interactive Festival, Gearbox franchise director Matt Armstrong and Borderlands lead character designer Jonathan Hemingway provided a behind the scenes look at how the developer evolved its playable characters from faceless archetypes to its four-person killing crew.

Each character was originally conceived to give players a point of comparison to other genres or game franchises. The accessible and easy to use "Doom Guy" focused on giving classic shooter fans their familiar FPS fix; the tactical shooter archetype focused on delivering more strategic options, like in Metal Gear or Splinter Cell; and a world manipulator character concept wanted to give gamers a James Bond-like, gadget-focused killer.

Eventually, these original concepts - crudely drawn in shapes - evolved into the four playable characters featured in Borderlands.

Continue reading Gearbox details the evolution of the playable Borderlands cast

JoystiqGearbox details the evolution of the playable Borderlands cast originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Mar 2013 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-GamesBorderlandsBorderlands Game of the Year EditionGearboxGearbox-Softwaremicrosoftpcplaystationps3SXSW-2013xboxTue, 12 Mar 2013 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Gearbox reveals next Borderlands 2 DLC includes a new vault hunter [Update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/08/gearbox-teases-new-borderlands-2-vault-hunter-dlc-at-sxsw/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/08/gearbox-teases-new-borderlands-2-vault-hunter-dlc-at-sxsw/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/08/gearbox-teases-new-borderlands-2-vault-hunter-dlc-at-sxsw/#comments

During a panel at SXSW, Borderlands 2 developer Gearbox has revealed a new vault hunter is coming to its RPG-fueled first-person shooter.

"Deep beneath Pandora, an experiment has escaped," a teaser for the DLC announced, revealing a silhouette of the new character decimating enemies. "Bandits beware, a new vault hunter is coming. More mayhem awaits."

Details for the second add-on character were scarce, much like the Pandora wasteland; however, the teaser (which you can view above) leads us to believe the new character is melee-focused. Gearbox franchise director Matt Armstrong wouldn't reveal the exact release for the DLC during the panel but added, "DLC is announced on a very tight schedule, and I don't think you'll have to wait long until you see that character."

Update: Gearbox has clarified to Joystiq that the upcoming DLC character is not included as part of the Borderlands 2 Season Pass. The story above has been edited.

JoystiqGearbox reveals next Borderlands 2 DLC includes a new vault hunter [Update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Mar 2013 21:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-Gamesborderlands-2DLCDownloadable-ContentGearboxGearbox-Softwaremicrosoftpcplaystationps3SXSW-2013xboxFri, 08 Mar 2013 21:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Players probe the code of Aliens: Colonial Marines, find some fixes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/18/players-probe-the-code-of-aliens-colonial-marines-find-some-fi/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/18/players-probe-the-code-of-aliens-colonial-marines-find-some-fi/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/18/players-probe-the-code-of-aliens-colonial-marines-find-some-fi/#comments Polished turd Gamers work to make Aliens Colonial Marines look better on PCMaybe when the industry and players panned Aliens: Colonial Marines for being a hot mess, it was only because we all approached it from the wrong angle. Perhaps Colonial Marines' true gameplay value lies in its modding opportunities, specifically those that would fix the game's graphics, lighting, AI, UI and anything else that might need it.

Groups of players with programming skills are taking to the Colonial Marines source code, attempting to patch up the game (for PC) on their own. The Steam and Gearbox forums host a number of fix guides, including this step-by-step walkthrough with pre-made files from Steam user adonys.

Gearbox forum member kutjong notes an interesting phenomenon within the Colonial Marines code: "It's quite fascinating to study the .ini files. In PecanCompat.ini you can see all the graphics cards that qualify for a certain class. The most modern graphics card in that list is from 2007!" This Gearbox thread in particular hosts some comparison screenshots from before and after players have fiddled with the code, including the enhanced shot above. Game on, coders.

JoystiqPlayers probe the code of Aliens: Colonial Marines, find some fixes originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Feb 2013 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Aliens-Colonial-Marinesgearboxmodpcprogrammingsource-codeMon, 18 Feb 2013 19:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Aliens: Colonial Marines storms this week's UK charts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/18/aliens-colonial-marines-storms-this-weeks-uk-charts/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/18/aliens-colonial-marines-storms-this-weeks-uk-charts/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/18/aliens-colonial-marines-storms-this-weeks-uk-charts/#comments Aliens Colonial Marines storms this week's UK chartsDisaster or no, Aliens: Colonial Marines is still a big enough name to not only take top spot ahead of Dead Space 3 in the UK charts this week, but to become the country's biggest new release of 2013 so far - a stat perhaps scarier than anything in the game itself.

Dead Space 3 is in second place this week after a 57 percent drop in sales, while the traditional mid-term holiday bump - sales rose 39 percent overall from last week - sees Assassin's Creed 3 and Halo 4 re-enter the top ten at sixth and tenth respectively.

Ni no Kuni and DmC: Devil May Cry suffered big drops last week, and both continue their descents this time around. Ni no Kuni's third week in Europe sees it tumble to 25th, while after five weeks DmC almost leaves the top 40 altogether, coming in at 39th.

Continue reading Aliens: Colonial Marines storms this week's UK charts

JoystiqAliens: Colonial Marines storms this week's UK charts originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Feb 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsaliens-colonial-marineschart-trackchart-track-weeklygearboxgearbox-softwaremicrosoftnintendopcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3segaukvitawii-uxboxMon, 18 Feb 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Borderlands 2 Big Game Hunt DLC now on Mac]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/13/borderlands-2-big-game-hunt-dlc-now-on-mac/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/13/borderlands-2-big-game-hunt-dlc-now-on-mac/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/13/borderlands-2-big-game-hunt-dlc-now-on-mac/#comments Attention dapper players of Borderlands 2 on Mac: "Sir Hammerlock's Big Game Hunt" is now available on Apple's OS. The DLC can be snared on Steam for $9.99.

Meanwhile, members of Mac developer Aspyr's GameAgent service can grab Big Game Hunt at a 25 percent discount. Members need only log into GameAgent and use the coupon code on the front page. Just don't say we didn't warn you.

Continue reading Borderlands 2 Big Game Hunt DLC now on Mac

JoystiqBorderlands 2 Big Game Hunt DLC now on Mac originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 Feb 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k2k-gamesborderlands-2dlcgearboxmacsir-hammerlocks-big-game-huntWed, 13 Feb 2013 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview: Aliens: Colonial Marines]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/12/metareview-aliens-colonial-marines/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/12/metareview-aliens-colonial-marines/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/12/metareview-aliens-colonial-marines/#comments
Metareview Aliens Colonial Marines
Get away from this game, you @#%$!. Our review of Gearbox's Aliens: Colonial Marines found it "devoid of any redeeming qualities whatsoever." Let's find out how others felt.
  • EGM (90/100): "On an express elevator to otherworldly awesomeness."
meanwhile, everyone else...
  • OXM UK (60/100): "It needed to offer intense combat against an unstoppable force, deft storytelling that matched the cinematic flair of the films, and some new ideas that could have rejuvenated an overexposed franchise. It needed, in short, to be a better game."
  • Edge (50/100): "Colonial Marines feels stiff, shallow and dated. First announced for a 2008 release before the Aliens franchise machine prioritized other projects, it feels like more work has been retained from that initial production period than either Gearbox or Sega would care to admit. "
  • Game Informer (40/100): "Take away the Aliens license, and you've got a shooter that has no reason to exist. It would be like stripping the terraforming from Fracture or playing Inversion without its gravity-defying gimmick. At its best, it's barely mediocre."
  • Eurogamer (30/100): "It's shocking stuff, certainly one of the most glitchy mainstream releases of this hardware generation, and the sort of thing that would barely pass muster as a low budget game from 2002."

JoystiqMetareview: Aliens: Colonial Marines originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Feb 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Aliens-Colonial-Marinesgearboxgearbox-softwaremicrosoftpcplaystationps3segaxboxTue, 12 Feb 2013 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Aliens: Colonial Marines 'Bug Hunt' DLC coming in March, more on the way]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/09/aliens-colonial-marines-bug-hunt-dlc-coming-in-march-more-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/09/aliens-colonial-marines-bug-hunt-dlc-coming-in-march-more-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/09/aliens-colonial-marines-bug-hunt-dlc-coming-in-march-more-on/#comments Aliens: Colonial Marines will receive four add-on packs starting with the launch of the Bug Hunt DLC in March. Bug Hunt has players cooperatively taking on waves of enemies in three new maps. The other three content packs, a mixture of campaign and multiplayer DLC, will be available by the end of August.

All four of the DLC packs will be available individually and for Season Pass holders, which Sega confirmed is "a $29.99 / 2400 Microsoft Point bundle that offers a savings of almost 40% over buying the content individually." The Season Pass can be bought on Steam right now for $27, and will make its way to Xbox 360 and PS3 in the near future.

JoystiqAliens: Colonial Marines 'Bug Hunt' DLC coming in March, more on the way originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 09 Feb 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aliensAliens-Colonial-Marinesbug-huntDLCgearboxgearbox-softwaremicrosoftpcplaystationps3season-passSegaxboxSat, 09 Feb 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Borderlands Legends update opens a loot chest full of new mechanics and features]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/07/borderlands-legends-update-opens-a-loot-chest-full-of-new-mechan/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/07/borderlands-legends-update-opens-a-loot-chest-full-of-new-mechan/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/07/borderlands-legends-update-opens-a-loot-chest-full-of-new-mechan/#comments
Borderlands Legends has received quite the hefty update and is now compatible with iPhone 5 and iPad Mini. The most significant changes are enhanced controls and path-finding for the Vault Hunters, gun loot drops, new enemy types, miniboss encounters, plus Game Center support.

2K Games has also added a Sniper mode for Mordecai, where players can pinpoint a specific enemy in the game for him to let loose a high-damage shot at. In addition, players will find "enhanced visual effects," rare Eridian weaponry to obsess over and new night maps to shoot their way through.

In celebration of the update, Borderlands Legends is on sale for $.99 on both iPhone and iPad for a limited time - sorry, no universal app here.

JoystiqBorderlands Legends update opens a loot chest full of new mechanics and features originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Feb 2013 21:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesborderlands-legendsgearboxgearbox-softwareiosipadiphonemobileupdateThu, 07 Feb 2013 21:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Borderlands 2 nears 6 million shipped, on course to be 2K's best seller]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/borderlands-2-nears-6-million-shipped-on-course-to-be-2ks-best/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/borderlands-2-nears-6-million-shipped-on-course-to-be-2ks-best/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/borderlands-2-nears-6-million-shipped-on-course-to-be-2ks-best/#comments Borderlands 2 is sneaking up on the 6 million mark for units shipped, and well on the way to exploding 2K Games' sales records. Speaking in yesterday's financials call, Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick said the rambunctious shooter was the company's biggest earner in terms of digital sales across the fiscal year.

"Building on its extraordinary launch in September, Borderlands 2 continues to expand its audience and remains on pace to become the highest-selling title in 2K's history," said Zelnick. "It has also been the largest contributor to our digitally delivered revenue this year, driven both by strong sales of full game downloads, and high attach rates for the title's add-on content, especially the Borderlands 2 Season Pass."

The Gearbox-developed sequel had shipped over 5 million back in October 2012. While shipments aren't the same as sales, it's worth noting the original Borderlands sold 4.5 million copies as of August 2011.

JoystiqBorderlands 2 nears 6 million shipped, on course to be 2K's best seller originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Feb 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>borderlands-2gearboxgearbox-softwaremacmicrosoftpcplaystationps3take-twoxboxWed, 06 Feb 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Borderlands 2 fashions in Domination, Madness and Supremacy styles]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/new-borderlands-2-fashions-in-domination-madness-and-supremacy/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/new-borderlands-2-fashions-in-domination-madness-and-supremacy/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/new-borderlands-2-fashions-in-domination-madness-and-supremacy/#comments New Borderlands 2 headsskinsBorderlands 2's vault hunters now have additional downloadable skins to put on in their quest for better loot. Each class now has a Domination, Madness or Supremacy themed outfit, available for $0.99 / 80 Microsoft Points apiece. The 15 skins are not included as part of the $30 Borderlands 2 'Season Pass.'

What you do get with the Borderlands 2 Season Pass is the recently released Sir Hammerlock's Big Game Hunt. The Seasons Pass will include one more piece of DLC to conclude the four announced packs. Then we place our bets on a "game of the year" edition for this holiday that'll include Borderlands 2 plus all DLC.

JoystiqNew Borderlands 2 fashions in Domination, Madness and Supremacy styles originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Jan 2013 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesborderlands-2gearboxgearbox-softwaremicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxWed, 23 Jan 2013 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Aliens: Colonial Marines reaches Wii U in Q1]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/17/aliens-colonial-marines-bursts-on-wii-u-in-q1/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/17/aliens-colonial-marines-bursts-on-wii-u-in-q1/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/17/aliens-colonial-marines-bursts-on-wii-u-in-q1/#comments Aliens Colonial Marines hits Wii U Q1Aliens: Colonial Marines, scheduled for February 12 on other platforms, now has a launch window of calendar Q1 for Wii U. Before the sun rises on the day of fools, you may dine on the blood of xenomorphs. It's the holistic way of handling an upset stomach.

Gallery: Aliens: Colonial Marines (12/11/2012)

JoystiqAliens: Colonial Marines reaches Wii U in Q1 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 Jan 2013 09:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Aliens-Colonial-Marinesgearboxgearbox-softwarenintendosegawii-uThu, 17 Jan 2013 09:42:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Borderlands 2's 'Sir Hammerlock's Big Game Hunt' DLC begins today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/15/psa-borderlands-2s-sir-hammerlocks-big-game-hunt-dlc-begins/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/15/psa-borderlands-2s-sir-hammerlocks-big-game-hunt-dlc-begins/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/15/psa-borderlands-2s-sir-hammerlocks-big-game-hunt-dlc-begins/#comments
Sir Hammerlock's Big Game Hunt is tallying-ho to Borderlands 2 today for Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and PC. It's already reached XBLM, and will make its way to PlayStation Network and Steam later today. The third of the four announced DLC campaigns is free for Season Pass holders, but otherwise sets you back 800 MSP on XBLM, or $9.99 on PSN and Steam. If you're getting Big Game Hunt on PSN in Europe or Oceania, you'll have to wait one more day as it's scheduled there for tomorrow, Jan. 16.

As for when the fourth DLC campaign is due, Gearbox is still sticking to the 'by June 2013' line. That's despite the first three arriving within three months of the game's release, and there being a further five months until June. Ergo, the key word there is by.

JoystiqPSA: Borderlands 2's 'Sir Hammerlock's Big Game Hunt' DLC begins today originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Jan 2013 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesborderlands-2DLCgearboxgearbox-softwaremicrosoftpcplaystationps3PSNsir-hammerlocks-big-game-huntsteamXBLMxboxTue, 15 Jan 2013 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Game on, man! Aliens: Colonial Marines is ready for pre-order]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/14/game-on-man-aliens-colonial-marines-is-ready-for-pre-order/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/14/game-on-man-aliens-colonial-marines-is-ready-for-pre-order/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/14/game-on-man-aliens-colonial-marines-is-ready-for-pre-order/#comments

The release of Gearbox's Aliens: Colonial Marines is finally zeroing in towards us, with publisher Sega launching a new television teaser to promote the oft-delayed title. For PC soldiers, Colonial Marines features a number of bonuses on Steam if players are willing to sign up for the Weyland-Yutani sponsored expedition before its launch.

Steam pre-order bonuses include a Sonic-Harpoon Artillery Remote Projectile (or S.H.A.R.P.) stick rifle, a weapon referenced in James Cameron's Aliens that fires explosive darts. Aliens: Colonial Marines will also be available for Xbox 360, Wii U, and the PlayStation 3, when it launches on February 12.

JoystiqGame on, man! Aliens: Colonial Marines is ready for pre-order originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Jan 2013 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aliensAliens-Colonial-Marinesdealfebruarygearboxpcpreordersegasharp-sticksteamtrailerMon, 14 Jan 2013 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Borderlands 2 PC patch kills Deathtrap bugs, more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/10/borderlands-2-pc-patch-kills-deathtrap-bugs-more/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/10/borderlands-2-pc-patch-kills-deathtrap-bugs-more/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/10/borderlands-2-pc-patch-kills-deathtrap-bugs-more/#comments Borderlands 2 PC patch kills Big Picture, Deathtrap bugs Pitchford celebrates with a diatribeThe PC version of Borderlands 2 has received its monthly update. Among the addressed items are a miscalculation of gun damage when Gunzerking, and shotguns ignoring buffs from stats, abilities and gear. Mechromancers need not suffer their stalwart companion Deathtrap randomly healing enemy shields anymore, "even though it was hilarious," Gearbox says.

Gearbox president Randy Pitchford wrote a related post in the forums, thanking fans and asking for patience while the team continues to work on Borderlands 2. He also says "awesome" a lot.

You can find the notes from this month's patch just after the break or through the source link below.

Continue reading Borderlands 2 PC patch kills Deathtrap bugs, more

JoystiqBorderlands 2 PC patch kills Deathtrap bugs, more originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Jan 2013 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesborderlands-2captain-scarlett-and-her-pirates-bootygaigegaige-the-mechromancergearboxgearbox-softwaremechromancerpcThu, 10 Jan 2013 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Borderlands 2 DLC retail pack listed by Australian ratings board]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/07/borderlands-2-dlc-retail-pack-listed-by-australian-ratings-board/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/07/borderlands-2-dlc-retail-pack-listed-by-australian-ratings-board/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/07/borderlands-2-dlc-retail-pack-listed-by-australian-ratings-board/#comments Borderlands 2 downloadable content could soon be wrecking its way to retail shelves, going by a recently rated pack containing 'Captain Scarlett and her Pirate's Booty' and 'Mr Torgue's Campaign of Carnage.' The game's first two DLC campaigns are included in a 'Borderlands 2 Expansion Pack' rated for retail by the Australian Classification Board.

The original Borderlands got the same treatment for its first two DLC packs, but not for the latter couple, for whatever reason. Given there are four DLC campaigns already planned we'd be surprised and more than a little confused if this wasn't the first of two retail packs to arrive in European and North American stores. Either way, we've reached out to developer Gearbox Software for more details.

JoystiqBorderlands 2 DLC retail pack listed by Australian ratings board originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 07 Jan 2013 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesborderlands-2gearboxgearbox-softwaremicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxMon, 07 Jan 2013 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Aliens: Colonial Marines story trailer investigates a deserted ship]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/29/aliens-colonial-marines-story-trailer-investigates-a-deserted-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/29/aliens-colonial-marines-story-trailer-investigates-a-deserted-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/29/aliens-colonial-marines-story-trailer-investigates-a-deserted-s/#comments
This trailer for Aliens: Colonial Marines shows a certain Captain Cruise ordering his crew to investigate a 17-week-old distress signal on the U.S.S. Sulaco. As indicated by the trailer's dramatic music and the word "aliens" in the game's title, the "liquid situation" has players leading the highly-skilled group of marines into battle against hostile alien beings (surprise!).

The Gearbox-developed game uses environments drawn specifically from the movie series of the same name, such as LV-426 and Hadley's Hope. Aliens: Colonial Marines is coming to Xbox 360, PC, Wii U and PS3 on February 12, 2013.

JoystiqAliens: Colonial Marines story trailer investigates a deserted ship originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 29 Dec 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aliensAliens-Colonial-Marinesgearboxmicrosoftnintendopcplaystationps3Segastorytrailervideowii-uxboxSat, 29 Dec 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Borderlands series sale bombards Xbox Live today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/27/borderlands-series-sale-bombards-xbox-live-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/27/borderlands-series-sale-bombards-xbox-live-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/27/borderlands-series-sale-bombards-xbox-live-today/#comments Borderlands series discounts bombard Xbox Live today"Game of the Year" contender Borderlands 2 is blasting off 33 percent of its Games on Demand price today, the game going for $39.99 as part of Xbox Live's Countdown to 2013 sale. Today's deal also has the Season Pass for Gearbox's shooter sequel down by 25 percent at 1800 MSP, while the original Borderlands takes a half-price tumble to $9.99.

Last week Gearbox revealed the third Borderlands 2 DLC campaign, Sir Hammerlock's Big Game Hunt, is due on January 15. If you've been thinking about getting the Season Pass then now's a good time to get on board, because today's discount means you'd get the four DLC campaigns it grants access to, including Big Game Hunt, for almost half the price of buying them separately on Xbox Live.

JoystiqBorderlands series sale bombards Xbox Live today originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 27 Dec 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesborderlandsborderlands-2games-on-demandgearboxmicrosoftXBLMxboxxbox-liveThu, 27 Dec 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sir Hammerlock's Big Game Hunt DLC sets off for Borderlands 2 Jan. 15]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/20/sir-hammerlocks-big-game-hunt-dlc-sets-off-for-borderlands-2-ja/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/20/sir-hammerlocks-big-game-hunt-dlc-sets-off-for-borderlands-2-ja/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/20/sir-hammerlocks-big-game-hunt-dlc-sets-off-for-borderlands-2-ja/#comments
Last week, PS3 game files outed the third DLC campaign for Borderlands 2, Sir Hammerlock's Big Game Hunt. Today Gearbox announced the DLC will launch on January 15 (January 16 on PS3 in Europe) for the PC, PS3 and Xbox 360.

Season Pass holders get this latest DLC pack for free, the third of a proposed four, while everyone else needs to fork over 800 MS Points ($10). Sir Hammerlock's Big Game Hunt teams the Vault Hunters up with Pandora's most dignified huntsman, but the expedition quickly goes awry thanks to the interference of a new, unknown enemy - a villain out to restore the legacy of Handsome Jack.

Gallery: Borderlands 2 - Sir Hammerlock's Big Game Hunt

JoystiqSir Hammerlock's Big Game Hunt DLC sets off for Borderlands 2 Jan. 15 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Dec 2012 08:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesborderlands-2gearboxgearbox-softwaremicrosoftpcplaystationps3sir-hammerlocks-big-game-huntxboxThu, 20 Dec 2012 08:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Next Borderlands 2 DLC is 'Sir Hammerlock's Big Game Hunt']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/13/next-borderlands-2-dlc-is-sir-hammerlocks-big-game-hunt/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/13/next-borderlands-2-dlc-is-sir-hammerlocks-big-game-hunt/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/13/next-borderlands-2-dlc-is-sir-hammerlocks-big-game-hunt/#comments HEADS UP Borderlands 2 DLC name may leak on Thursday SPOILER it didThe next Borderlands 2 DLC will be "Sir Hammerlock's Big Game Hunt," according to PS3 game files Gearbox forum members spotted in today's patch. Gearbox has confirmed this information to us.

Sir Hammerlock's Big Game Hunt, aside from having massive beasts and crazy guns (we assume), has three new trophies/achievements: one for completing "The Fall of Nakayama" mission, one for completing all side missions and the last for discovering all named locations in the Hunt.

The Borderlands 2 Season Pass includes access to two more DLC packs, including Sir Hammerlock's. The previous pack, Mr. Torgue's Campaign of Carnage, dropped on November 20, and we found some of its missions to be "downright weak."

JoystiqNext Borderlands 2 DLC is 'Sir Hammerlock's Big Game Hunt' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 Dec 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-Gamesborderlands-2DLCgearboxmicrosoftpcplaystationps3sir-hammerlocks-big-game-huntxboxThu, 13 Dec 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Borderlands 2 web series features Claptrap as a rodent-murdering samurai]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/13/borderlands-2-web-series-features-claptrap-as-a-rodent-murdering/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/13/borderlands-2-web-series-features-claptrap-as-a-rodent-murdering/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/13/borderlands-2-web-series-features-claptrap-as-a-rodent-murdering/#comments
The undoubted highlight in this second episode of Claptrap's new web series comes when the depraved unicycle robot is forced to turn to a career in Japanese advertising. It reminded us of good times.

JoystiqBorderlands 2 web series features Claptrap as a rodent-murdering samurai originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 Dec 2012 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesborderlands-2claptrapgearboxgearbox-softwareThu, 13 Dec 2012 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Borderlands 2's Torgue DLC out on 360 now, PS3 and PC today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/20/borderlands-2-mr-torgue-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/20/borderlands-2-mr-torgue-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/20/borderlands-2-mr-torgue-dlc/#comments
Mr Torgue's Campaign of Carnage is butchering Xbox 360, PS3, and PC today, with the second Borderlands 2 expansion already rampaging across the Xbox Live Marketplace. Should the latest initiates to Mr. Torgue want in, it'll cost 800 MSP or $9.99.

If Mr Torgue's Campaign hasn't won you over yet, you can always check out our hands-on impressions of the expansion, as well as the brand new launch trailer above.

Gallery: Mr. Torgue's Campaign of Carnage (Borderlands 2 DLC)

JoystiqBorderlands 2's Torgue DLC out on 360 now, PS3 and PC today originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Nov 2012 10:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesborderlands-2gearboxgearbox-softwaremicrosoftplaystationps3xboxTue, 20 Nov 2012 10:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Mr. Torgue's Campaign of Carnage kicks off in Borderlands 2 next week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/16/mr-torgues-campaign-of-carnage-kicks-off-in-borderlands-2-next/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/16/mr-torgues-campaign-of-carnage-kicks-off-in-borderlands-2-next/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/16/mr-torgues-campaign-of-carnage-kicks-off-in-borderlands-2-next/#comments Just as the Trophies foretold, the next expansion for Borderlands 2 is indeed called "Mr. Torgue's Campaign of Carnage" - big surprise there. Mr. Torgue's Campaign of Carnage will cost 800 MS Points ($10) a la carte when it launches on November 20; if you signed up for the Season Pass, this DLC is included in the up front cost.

We were invited to check out the new DLC for about an hour last week. Any Borderlands player worth his weight in Slag will sense an odd familiarity at the heart of Mr. Torgue's Campaign of Carnage almost immediately. While it is a story-driven narrative full of fetch quests and one loud sassy mouth in your earpiece, these instances are tied together with arena battles reminiscent of the many hours I spent in Moxxi's Underdome.

That's the sense of familiarity, perhaps not the ideal thing to read considering how abrasive the Underdome DLC was in the first Borderlands; however, Gearbox shows a much more learned execution in the early moments of Torgue's Campaign of Carnage. The big thing is I never felt like any of my time was wasted, perhaps my single biggest complaint about the Mad Moxxi's Underdome Riot DLC.

Gallery: Mr. Torgue's Campaign of Carnage (Borderlands 2 DLC)

I wasn't able to explore that much of the DLC's plot, nor would I want to spoil it for those anxious to pony up at the bar and slam down another tall glass of DLC. But what I took away was Gearbox's dedication to making Mr. Torgue a memorable character, a loud and manly dude whose quips were on par with the dry, threatening sounds of Handsome Jack.

Mr. Torgue is much more irreverent and fun, and often enjoys breaking down the third wall to engage in some meta humor with the player. He's more likeable than Jack, but then again he wasn't billed as the bad guy almost immediately. There are places to go and things to see and Mr. Torgue plays the role of sidekick quite well, bringing levity to every situation.

And all of my progress wasn't for naught. A big problem with Mad Moxxi's Underdome Riot is how none of your progress transcends that DLC prison - once in the arena, you don't get experience points and level up. Mr. Torgue's Campaign of Carnage chooses to sidestep that rule and doesn't force you into a series of claustrophobic arenas - it mixes things up by sending you to completely new areas in-between the arena battles.

JoystiqMr. Torgue's Campaign of Carnage kicks off in Borderlands 2 next week originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Nov 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesborderlands-2gearboxmicrosoftmr-torgues-campaign-of-couragepcplaystationps3xboxFri, 16 Nov 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Borderlands' Claptrap returns for second season of web series]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/06/borderlands-claptrap-returns-for-second-season-of-web-series/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/06/borderlands-claptrap-returns-for-second-season-of-web-series/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/06/borderlands-claptrap-returns-for-second-season-of-web-series/#comments
With a new Borderlands game comes a new season of web shorts featuring Claptrap, the series' roguish, deeply insane automaton. In this opening episode, Claptrap gives us the lowdown on making Borderlands 2.

JoystiqBorderlands' Claptrap returns for second season of web series originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Nov 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesborderlands-2claptrapgearboxgearbox-softwaremicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxTue, 06 Nov 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Art of Borderlands 2 up for preorder on Amazon]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/02/the-art-of-borderlands-2-up-for-preorder-on-amazon/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/02/the-art-of-borderlands-2-up-for-preorder-on-amazon/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/02/the-art-of-borderlands-2-up-for-preorder-on-amazon/#comments The Art of Borderlands 2 up for preorder on AmazonThe Art of Borderlands 2 is, as you might expect, a hardcover art book that celebrates the look and design of Gearbox's latest gun-grabbing first-person shooter. It's available for preorder right now from Amazon.com, for a discounted price of $25.00, down from the usual cost of $40.00.

If you can't get enough of Pandora and its combat-prone inhabitants, this should help. The book features over 200 pages of concept and production art, along with insight and commentary from the developers on how it all got put together.

The book is set for a publication date of November 5, so there's plenty of time to grab this one and get it wrapped and under the tree for your local gun nut before the holidays.

JoystiqThe Art of Borderlands 2 up for preorder on Amazon originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Nov 2012 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artart-of-borderlands-2bookborderlands-2brady-gamesgearboxgearbox-softwaremicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxFri, 02 Nov 2012 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gearbox releasing special Halloween skin SHIFT codes today for Borderlands 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/31/gearbox-releasing-special-halloween-skin-shift-codes-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/31/gearbox-releasing-special-halloween-skin-shift-codes-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/31/gearbox-releasing-special-halloween-skin-shift-codes-today/#comments Gearbox releasing special Halloween skin SHIFT codes todayGearbox is spooking things up today by releasing special SHIFT codes for Borderlands 2. The codes will unlock Halloween-themed character customization skins, including the above buzzy little number for Maya.

The giveaway kicks offs at 11AM ET (8AM Pacific, 3PM British) on Gearbox's Twitter and Borderlands' Facebook pages, and codes will be active until November 5 at 0.55AM ET. For extra fun, dress up like the skin you win when you go Halloween-ing tonight. Even though people won't get it, you'll definitely look super cool*.

*Joystiq offers no guarantee of your cosmetic coolness

JoystiqGearbox releasing special Halloween skin SHIFT codes today for Borderlands 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 31 Oct 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesborderlands-2gearboxgearbox-softwaremicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxWed, 31 Oct 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[2K Games working on other mobile platforms for Borderlands Legends]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/26/2k-games-working-on-other-mobile-platforms-for-borderlands-legen/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/26/2k-games-working-on-other-mobile-platforms-for-borderlands-legen/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/26/2k-games-working-on-other-mobile-platforms-for-borderlands-legen/#comments Borderlands Legends, the top-down RPG in which you control the first game's four Vault Hunters, may expand to other platforms after it arrives next week. It's coming to the iPad and iPhone/iPod Touch in a pair of separately priced apps first.

"We're working on other mobile platforms," a 2K Games representative told Joystiq. 2K China, the developer behind Borderlands Legends and other 2K mobile titles, is currently working on many projects, so the 2K Games rep couldn't give us any kind of timeframe or specific platforms for this endeavor. The list of viable mobile platforms isn't that large, however, so we can probably rule out WebOS.

Joystiq2K Games working on other mobile platforms for Borderlands Legends originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Oct 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-china2k-gamesborderlandsborderlands-legendsgearboxiosipadiphonemobilescott-pytlikFri, 26 Oct 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hit List Q&A: Randy Pitchford, Gearbox Software President]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/24/hit-list-qanda-randy-pitchford-gearbox-software-president/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/24/hit-list-qanda-randy-pitchford-gearbox-software-president/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/24/hit-list-qanda-randy-pitchford-gearbox-software-president/#commentsIn the "Hit List" from the Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences, the video game industry's top talents describe their current gaming addictions, their most anticipated releases and more. This week: Gearbox Software President Randy Pitchford.
A note from the AIAS:
Randy Pitchford is co-founder, owner and President of Gearbox Software. Randy served as Executive Producer and in creative and development capacities in the creation of Gearbox Software's award winning, best-selling original franchises Brothers in Arms and Borderlands. Under Randy's leadership, Gearbox Software has also developed a string of hits with sequels, expansions, and original games for many of the industry's most credible franchises and in 2010 acquired Duke Nukem to add to its stable of properties. Before the launch of Borderlands 2 on September 18, 2012, Gearbox Software games have sold over 30 million units earning more than $1 billion in gross revenues.

What many do not know is that prior to game development, Randy was a professional magician. In his forthcoming 2013 D.I.C.E. Summit session titled "Video Games Are Magic," Randy will explore how the lessons of magical performance apply to our industry. Along the way, he'll demonstrate and expose specific techniques, methods and ideas from magic that illustrate how the art of illusion has a lot in common with the art of interactive entertainment and leave his audience with tools that are useful and applicable from the executive level to the design level of our craft.

Continue reading Hit List Q&A: Randy Pitchford, Gearbox Software President

JoystiqHit List Q&A: Randy Pitchford, Gearbox Software President originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Oct 2012 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aiasborderlands-2gearboxgearbox-softwarehit-listmicrosoftpcplaystationps3randy-pitchfordxboxWed, 24 Oct 2012 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA['Borderlands Legends' is an action-RPG iOS game, available Oct. 31]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/23/borderlands-legends-is-an-action-rpg-ios-game-available-oct/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/23/borderlands-legends-is-an-action-rpg-ios-game-available-oct/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/23/borderlands-legends-is-an-action-rpg-ios-game-available-oct/#comments 'Borderlands Legends' is an actionRPG iOS game, available Oct 31The Borderlands franchise will make its portable gaming debut on Wednesday, October 31, when Borderlands Legends launches on iPhone and iPad for $4.99 and $6.99, respectively. Rather than furthering the series' FPS heritage, however, Legends instead opts for an isometric action-RPG take on murdering people and then stealing from them.

Familiar inventory management and skill tree systems return, though the rest of the experience is reportedly an entirely new, touch-based affair, according to 2K Games' announcement. Based on what we've seen in the gallery below, we're inclined to believe this ain't your mother's Borderlands.

Gallery: Borderlands Legends

Joystiq'Borderlands Legends' is an action-RPG iOS game, available Oct. 31 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Oct 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-Gamesborderlands-legendsgearboxgearbox-softwareiosipadiphonemobileTue, 23 Oct 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain Scarlett hails Mr. Bubbles in Borderlands 2 'Pirate Booty' DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/19/captain-scarlett-hails-mr-bubbles-in-borderlands-2-pirate-boot/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/19/captain-scarlett-hails-mr-bubbles-in-borderlands-2-pirate-boot/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/19/captain-scarlett-hails-mr-bubbles-in-borderlands-2-pirate-boot/#comments There's an interesting easter egg in the new Borderlands 2 DLC, Captain Scarlett and Her Pirate's Booty. The iconic Big Daddy (AKA Mr. Bubbles) from the BioShock series makes an appearance at some point in the add-on adventure and - well, we don't want to ruin it for you. In the interest of spoilers, we've embedded the video showing off the Pandora version of everyone's favorite child social worker past the break.

Continue reading Captain Scarlett hails Mr. Bubbles in Borderlands 2 'Pirate Booty' DLC

JoystiqCaptain Scarlett hails Mr. Bubbles in Borderlands 2 'Pirate Booty' DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Oct 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesbig-daddybioshockbioshock-2bioshock-infiniteborderlands-2easter-egggearboxgearbox-softwareirrational-gamesmicrosoftmr-bubblespcplaystationps3xboxFri, 19 Oct 2012 14:30:00 EST