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 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Rumor: Gears of War 2 to feature chainsaw duels]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/23/rumor-gears-of-war-2-to-feature-chainsaw-duels/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/23/rumor-gears-of-war-2-to-feature-chainsaw-duels/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/23/rumor-gears-of-war-2-to-feature-chainsaw-duels/#commentsFiled under: ,


You may have come to this conclusion when you saw the debut trailer for Gears of War 2, but Variety blogger Ben Fritz is claiming that the hot, chainsaw-on-chainsaw action featured in the preview wasn't just a stylish cutscene -- it's also going to be a gameplay mechanic in the uber-anticipated sequel. Fritz apparently spoke to people who are "close enough to the development team at Epic to know" that chainsaw wielders will now be able to repel, and possibly counter, each other's attacks.

Epic hasn't confirmed this, but given the feature's appearance in the trailer, and the frequent complaints about an "unbalanced" chainsaw combat system in the first Gears of War, we think it's safe to assume we'll be spending many long winter nights playing Lumberjack Bushido Blade when the game drops this November.

JoystiqRumor: Gears of War 2 to feature chainsaw duels originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 23 Feb 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chainsawepicgears of wargears-of-war-2GearsOfWargearsofwar2gowxboxXbox-360xbox360Sat, 23 Feb 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Watch this space, Epic Games plans to double in size]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/14/watch-this-space-epic-games-plans-to-double-in-size/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/14/watch-this-space-epic-games-plans-to-double-in-size/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/14/watch-this-space-epic-games-plans-to-double-in-size/#commentsFiled under: ,


Having tired of rubbing actual elbows with fellow teammates, Epic Games' always verbose VP Mark Rein has confessed that he and his squad of developers have "pretty much run out of space" in the company's North Carolina base of operations, and that plans are well underway for an expansion to "at least" double the facility's current size. According to a report by North Carolina's News Observer, the devs coughed up a cool $1.57 million for the new office space, which will be positioned on a five-acre lot adjacent to Epic's current 31,000-square foot HQ.

Headcount at Epic currently stands at 94, with current growth of around one new employee a month expected to continue for the next couple of years. So with all of this added space, will the developers get to spread out, and maybe quit knocking over each others' Mt. Dew as they reach for their mouse? Unlikely, as the report notes that the new facility will instead be largely used to house the numerous play testers that visit Epic, rather than have to rent out space down the street. We understand the need completely, though until the devs get additional space of their own we'd suggest judicious application of lids.

JoystiqWatch this space, Epic Games plans to double in size originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Jan 2008 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epicepic gamesEpicGamesgears of warGearsOfWarmark reinMarkReinPCplay testPlayTestunrealUnreal Tournament 3UnrealTournament3ut3Mon, 14 Jan 2008 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Writer drops details about Gears of War movie]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/06/writer-drops-details-about-gears-of-war-movie/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/06/writer-drops-details-about-gears-of-war-movie/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/06/writer-drops-details-about-gears-of-war-movie/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

GamePro has an exclusive interview up with Stuart Beattie, writer of the forthcoming Gears of War movie. He's been tapped for the job since he did a bang-up job writing the first Pirates of the Caribbean movie. It's too bad they didn't use him for the sequels, because they were ... craptastic.

He drops some interesting details about the upcoming film, including the fact that 300 ain't too bad of a reference movie, "That film was shot completely on green screen, which is amazing when you actually see the film. It's probably how we're going to do Gears of War."

Beattie will be pouring himself into the job apparently, "I hope it's extremely collaborative. From my point of view it's definitely going to be, because I'm going to be riding their asses about it." Personally we don't care whose ass he rides, as long as a good movie comes out of it.

Continue reading Writer drops details about Gears of War movie

JoystiqWriter drops details about Gears of War movie originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 06 Oct 2007 10:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Gears of WarGearsOfWarPCPirates of the CaribbeanStuart BeattieThe GetawayXbox-360Sat, 06 Oct 2007 10:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Epic's Mark Rein: Consoles will define look of PC games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/30/epics-mark-rein-consoles-will-define-look-of-pc-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/30/epics-mark-rein-consoles-will-define-look-of-pc-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/30/epics-mark-rein-consoles-will-define-look-of-pc-games/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Speaking to CVG, Epic Games vice president Mark Rein has expressed his belief that graphical advancement in PC games will be partially reined in (OOF!) due to the limitations and financial viability of consoles. "Publishers are generally putting their money where the highest return is, and in the past that's been on consoles and I think that's still the case," said Rein. "So if you build the game that's a really super amazing high-end game, how do you make all the money you could make from that game, because it'll be too high end eventually to be on PS3 or Xbox 360."

As a result, Rein expects consoles to "pretty much define what the next five years of games look like on the PC" and titles pushing the DirectX 10 envelope to be in the minority. PC versions should, however, benefit from several enhancements a la Gears of War. "That's the value to me of the PC, that the source content we have is still really high resolution, much higher than we can show on a 512MB machine. You can use that content on the PC, you can express it in higher resolutions and higher frame rates and turn on more effects. I think that's what you'll see, PC games where we turn it up higher."

Though it sounds like console technology is cramping the PC's style, the Xbox 360 and PS3 (and those who develop for them) are still immersed in the design transition from single processors to parallel architectures. There's a lot more wind to be coaxed from those sails yet.

JoystiqEpic's Mark Rein: Consoles will define look of PC games originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 Jul 2007 16:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CrysisDirectX10EpicGears of WarGearsOfWarPCPS3UnrealXbox-360Mon, 30 Jul 2007 16:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Gears of War will be roadie running onto Macs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/17/gears-of-war-will-be-roadie-running-onto-macs/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/17/gears-of-war-will-be-roadie-running-onto-macs/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/17/gears-of-war-will-be-roadie-running-onto-macs/#commentsFiled under: ,

We thought we heard the extent of how far Gears of War was willing to stray from its Xbox 360 roots, but now we're hearing about an even further departure. In an interview with Game Head's Geoff Keighley, Mark Rein talked up Unreal Tournament 3 and Gears of War and accidentally let the news slip that both games were headed to the Mac platform. Rein confirmed Gears' Mac-bound status when answering Keighley stating that "yes, Gears is going to come to the Mac and so is UT". The news was not followed by a release date or how far in development the Mac versions are.

Anyone willing to bet that Gears Mac will have even more content than Gears PC all of which won't be available to 360 owners? Anyone? Nobody? Shucks ...

JoystiqGears of War will be roadie running onto Macs originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Jul 2007 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleepicepic gamesEpicGamesgearsgears of warGearsOfWargowmacTue, 17 Jul 2007 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New GoW PC content not coming to the 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/13/new-gow-pc-content-not-coming-to-the-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/13/new-gow-pc-content-not-coming-to-the-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/13/new-gow-pc-content-not-coming-to-the-360/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The Advanced Media Network sat down with Epic's Mark Rein and Cliffy B to chat about their big E3 announcements and learned some sad news about the new Gears of War PC content. When questioned about whether or not the new campaign missions or multiplayer maps announced for the PC version would be headed to the Xbox 360, Rein said it was "unlikely [that] we will bring that content to 360". Cliffy B further emphasized their doubt by stating that "if we didn't have any sort of exclusive on the PC, why would people buy the PC version?". The Epic crew explained that bringing the PC content over to the 360 would be an extremely time consuming task and that they're currently focused on other projects like Unreal Tournament 3.

Being the Gears fan that I am it's hard to hear that new, exciting multiplayer AND campaign content will be available, but not for 360 owners. And no, there's no way I'm personally buying a beefy computer to run Gears of War PC just to experience the new content. No matter how you slice the news it sucks for 360 owners and Gears enthusiasts ... it's simple as that. Now, I'm going to go cry myself to sleep.

[Thanks, Jason S]

JoystiqNew GoW PC content not coming to the 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Jul 2007 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3e307epicepic gaemsepic gamesEpicGaemsEpicGamesgearsgears of wargears of war pcGearsOfWarGearsOfWarPcgowgow pcGowPcFri, 13 Jul 2007 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[First video of Gears of War on PC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/11/first-video-of-gears-of-war-on-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/11/first-video-of-gears-of-war-on-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/11/first-video-of-gears-of-war-on-pc/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The just-announced Gears of War looks fantastic on the PC. The already-beautiful Unreal Engine 3 is pushed even further on Games For Windows as can be seen in this first ever footage of the game running on the PC. With new levels, a level editor, and more surprises on the way, will Xbox 360 owners cry at feeling neglected by this "super-awesome" version?

JoystiqFirst video of Gears of War on PC originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Jul 2007 01:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>E3e307games for windowsGamesForWindowsgears of warGearsOfWargfwPCWed, 11 Jul 2007 01:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Gears of War and Viva Pinata go to PC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/10/gears-of-war-and-viva-pinata-go-to-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/10/gears-of-war-and-viva-pinata-go-to-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/10/gears-of-war-and-viva-pinata-go-to-pc/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Gears of War is no longer a Xbox 360 exclusive. Neither is Viva Pinata. Two of Microsoft's premiere console titles is now getting the Games For Windows treatment. The Game of the Year-winning shooter from Epic will gain a few enhancements on the PC, such as five new levels, a new editor, and "some very big surprises." Could the game look even prettier on a DirectX 10 PC? Believe it. Thankfully, the game will run on both Windows XP and Windows Vista.

Viva Pinata and a major list of new Games for Windows titles were revealed at the Microsoft keynote, including titles such as Age of Empires 3: The Asian Dynasties, Stranglehold, Blacksite: Area 51, and Kane and Lynch: Dead Men.

JoystiqGears of War and Viva Pinata go to PC originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Jul 2007 23:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingnewsE3e307games for windowsGamesForWindowsgears of warGearsOfWargfwmicrosoftPCviva pinataVivaPinataTue, 10 Jul 2007 23:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Gears of War PC montage video leaked [update 1]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/gears-of-war-pc-montage-video-leaked/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/gears-of-war-pc-montage-video-leaked/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/gears-of-war-pc-montage-video-leaked/#commentsFiled under: ,

Looks like someone made a boo boo. Those silly cats over at GameVideos.com posted a video entitled "Gears of War PC 'E3 Action' montage" and quickly pulled it. But fret not fanboys, because Quellex saved the video and posted it on YouTube for everyone to enjoy. But before you take a look at this leaked Gears PC montage be warned that it may make your inner fanboy scream with anger and disgust. Why? Because the video showcases what looks to be not only new multiplayer maps and additional campaign missions, but it also showcases a boss battle with a Brumak. Yup, that same Brumak that didn't make it into the 360 version of Gears. Hopefully there's more to this story that'll come out of E3, something along the lines of all the new additional PC content being available for free to Xbox 360 owners. Otherwise we shun you Epic and your PC content ... we want to fight Brumaks too!

Update 1: We've removed our link to the YouTube video at GameVideos.com's request, but now that the giant cat Brumak's out of the bag, it's gonna be awfully tough to get him back in.

[Via NeoGAF]

JoystiqGears of War PC montage video leaked [update 1] originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Jul 2007 20:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3e307epicepic gamesEpicGamesgears of warGearsOfWargowFri, 06 Jul 2007 20:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Cliffy B's adolescent story inspires comedic skit]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/cliffy-bs-adolescent-story-inspires-comedic-skit/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/cliffy-bs-adolescent-story-inspires-comedic-skit/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/cliffy-bs-adolescent-story-inspires-comedic-skit/#commentsFiled under:


We knew Cliffy B liked the spotlight, but we didn't know he also enjoyed comedic improv. The other night, during a DSI Comedy Theatre performance in North Carolina, the improv crew invited Cliffy B on stage to tell of his childhood, his Nintendo roots, and how badass he thought the Nintendo Power Glove was back in the day. As expected, Cliff's storytelling is pretty darn good, but the improv crews' rendition of his story leaves us scratching our heads a little. No matter, it's Cliffy B taking the stage, so be amazed and give the storytelling and improv a watch. Video ever so conveniently embedded above.

[Via Digg]

JoystiqCliffy B's adolescent story inspires comedic skit originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Jul 2007 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cliffy bCliffyBepicepic gamesEpicGamesgears of warGearsOfWarFri, 06 Jul 2007 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Gears of War soundtrack drops July 31st]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/gears-of-war-soundtrack-drops-july-31st/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/gears-of-war-soundtrack-drops-july-31st/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/gears-of-war-soundtrack-drops-july-31st/#commentsFiled under: ,

Gears fanboys will be excited to know that the sweet, sweet sounds of our beloved Gears of War will soon be lovingly lasered onto a piece of media plastic. The official Gears of War Soundtrack was announced yesterday and will hit major retailers and be available online July 31st. The CD will feature 28 musical tracks that will chronologically take listeners through Gears' campaign and feature the Northwest Symphonia orchestra. Think of the soundtrack as a musical version of the whole "destroyed beauty" motif. Complete list of all 28 tracks are viewable after the break including our favorites "I Will Kryll You" and "Running With Boomers".

Continue reading Gears of War soundtrack drops July 31st

JoystiqGears of War soundtrack drops July 31st originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Jul 2007 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cdepicepic gamesEpicGamesgearsgears of wargears of war soundtrackGearsOfWarGearsOfWarSoundtrackgowgow soundtrackGowSoundtracksoundtrackFri, 06 Jul 2007 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Today's most standup video: CliffyB, the comedian]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/todays-most-standup-video-cliffyb-the-comedian/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/todays-most-standup-video-cliffyb-the-comedian/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/todays-most-standup-video-cliffyb-the-comedian/#commentsFiled under: , ,

You know the old saying: game designers always want to be comedians, and comedians always want to be game designers. As part of DSI Comedy Theater, Gears of War creator CliffyB provided humorous anecdotes on his childhood and what drove him to the Nintendo World Championship. The troupe provides performance inspired by CliffyB's stories.

We don't want to spoil any of it, so go on and check it out yourself. Video embedded after the break.

Continue reading Today's most standup video: CliffyB, the comedian

JoystiqToday's most standup video: CliffyB, the comedian originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Jul 2007 00:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cliffy bCliffyBgears of warGearsOfWarhottest videoHottestVideonintendoFri, 06 Jul 2007 00:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Fanswag: Gears of War Modeling Book Winners]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/02/fanswag-gears-of-war-modeling-book-winners/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/02/fanswag-gears-of-war-modeling-book-winners/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/02/fanswag-gears-of-war-modeling-book-winners/#commentsFiled under:

Our Gears of War Modeling Book Contest has come to an end and we had some talented folks send in some great Locust creations. Not only did we have some great entries, but we also received entries that weren't really entries. Looking in our inbox we received emails from out of the country (this is a US only contest), entries that didn't include any attached artwork, and entries that were out of the country AND didn't include artwork. Those emails made us laugh and exercise our "delete email" finger. But, in the end, we came away satisfied with the creations our fellow fanboys submitted. So, we bet you are wondering which three entries were chosen to win a copy of Ballistic Publishing's d'artiste: Character Modeling 2, what the Locust creations look like, and if Epic Games will be using the winning designs in the Gears of War sequel. Well, the answers to all those questions and more are posted after the break. Click along and come join our Locust art gallery fun.

Continue reading Fanswag: Gears of War Modeling Book Winners

JoystiqFanswag: Gears of War Modeling Book Winners originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Jul 2007 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contestsepicgearsgears of warGearsOfWargiveawaygowMon, 02 Jul 2007 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Reminder: Submit art for GoW Modeling Book Contest]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/29/reminder-submit-art-for-gow-modeling-book-contest/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/29/reminder-submit-art-for-gow-modeling-book-contest/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/29/reminder-submit-art-for-gow-modeling-book-contest/#commentsFiled under:

Did you know we're giving away three hardcover copies of Ballistic Publishing's d'artiste: Character Modeling 2 that feature amazing Gears of War artwork and are valued at over $50 a piece? You did huh? Well, quite being so lazy and send in your locust artwork already! Remember, all you have to do to win a copy is create a new, never before seen Locust creature and send it to us in .jpg format. But you better hurry, because the contest ends July 2nd when we'll be picking our favorite entries who'll win a copy of the modeling book. Complete list of contest rules, details and how to enter are available on the contest page. Run along now and get creative!

JoystiqReminder: Submit art for GoW Modeling Book Contest originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Jun 2007 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ballistic publishingBallisticPublishingcharacter modeling bookCharacterModelingBookcontestfanswaggearsgears of warGearsOfWargiveawaygowFri, 29 Jun 2007 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 goes disco at Bonnaroo]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/xbox-360-goes-disco-at-bonnaroo/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/xbox-360-goes-disco-at-bonnaroo/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/xbox-360-goes-disco-at-bonnaroo/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


The Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival can be described in many ways, but gamer's paradise is not the first phrase that comes to mind. Monstrosity of music, perhaps, or neo-hippie nirvana -- these are much more apt descriptions. However, one tiny corner of the farm was in fact an electronic Eden, gamer style, at this year's festival.

We were curious about the console's presence at the festival, and the Microsoft rep on hand wasn't shy about answering questions. "Why not Bonnaroo? There are tons of people, it's good exposure for the system, and it's a great chance to demonstrate the 360." From what we saw of the crowds in the tent, she was right about the exposure. The Arcade was never empty, and several of the consoles had small crowds clustered around the screens.

The Xbox 360 Discothéque Arcade, like so many of the enclosed structures at Bonnaroo, didn't look like much from the outside. Dust-streaked white walls shielded gamers from the boiling Tennessee sun, and the doorway was perfectly positioned to catch the occasional (and very welcome) breeze. Inside, thick shag rugs and battered sofas turned the Arcade into the perfect chill-out area. While the tent wasn't air-conditioned, the simple presence of shade made the Arcade a big draw for gamers and nongamers alike.

Gallery: Xbox 360 Arcade at Bonnaroo 2007

Continue reading Xbox 360 goes disco at Bonnaroo

JoystiqXbox 360 goes disco at Bonnaroo originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Jun 2007 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActionbonnarooCrackdowndiscotheque arcadeDiscothequeArcaforza 2Forza2gears of warGearsOfWarguitar hero iiGuitarHeroIimadden 2007Madden2007Microsoftmlb 2k7Mlb2k7music festivalMusicFestivalRealtime-WorldsRiot-ActSandboxxbox 360Xbox-360Xbox360Tue, 26 Jun 2007 13:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Epic's Mark Rein: No Gears of War 2 at Min-E3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/mark-rein-says-no-gears-of-war-2-at-min-e3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/mark-rein-says-no-gears-of-war-2-at-min-e3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/mark-rein-says-no-gears-of-war-2-at-min-e3/#commentsFiled under: ,

If you're one of the thousands, nay millions, hoping that a Gears of War sequel is on the plate for Microsoft's super-secret Min-E3 plans ... you're just going to have to wait longer.

Mark Rein, VP of Epic Games, tells BeyondUnreal.com that they are not announcing a sequel to Gears this year at E3. He writes to them, "Did you see the update we just did for Gears of War last week? We're still working on the first one." Rein has been saying since GDC that there are no plans to announce a sequel, even though it's been no secret that many will eventually be released. This is the year of Halo for Microsoft, however next year...

JoystiqEpic's Mark Rein: No Gears of War 2 at Min-E3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Jun 2007 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gears of warGearsOfWarmark reinsequelXbox-360Tue, 19 Jun 2007 13:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Gears of War 2? Not happening at E3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/gears-of-war-2-not-happening-at-e3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/gears-of-war-2-not-happening-at-e3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/gears-of-war-2-not-happening-at-e3/#commentsFiled under: ,

It was rumored, but ultimately the E3 Gears of War sequel announcement was just that ... a rumor. Beyond Unreal contacted Mark Rein about the possibility that a Gears of War sequel would be announced at this year's E3 and his response was somewhere along the lines of no. "We are not announcing a sequel to Gears of War at E3 this year" Rein responded and reinforced their commitment to Gears of War's DLC by stating that "we're still working on the first one".

As fans of the Gears franchise we're more than fine with no new news at E3. Microsoft's E3 spiel will more than likely be about Halo 3 and other third party titles, so Gears news really isn't necessary. So Epic, you just take your time and put together one of the most rockin' Gears of War 2 announcement trailers ever and take comfort in knowing that you have the support of at least one blogger around these parts.

JoystiqGears of War 2? Not happening at E3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Jun 2007 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3epicepic gamesEpicGamesgearsgears of warGearsOfWargowTue, 19 Jun 2007 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[New Gears of War achievements rundown]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/14/new-gears-of-war-achievements-rundown/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/14/new-gears-of-war-achievements-rundown/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/14/new-gears-of-war-achievements-rundown/#commentsFiled under: ,

The Gears of War auto update rolled out earlier this morning implementing an updated roadie run (third time's the charm), general maintenance and our favorite ... new achievements. The eight new Gears achievements are wrapped up in the newish content all achievable either by playing the Annex gametype or by playing in the new Hidden Fronts maps (which cost 800 Microsoft points, but will be free in September). Our favorites? Based strictly on their names we love the 300 reference in "THIS! IS! ANNEX!", the nubness of "Nub Pwn3r", and "All That Juice" ... because it made us chuckle. But we're sure we'll achieve "You Down With E.P.I.C?" first, because it looks to be the easiest. Complete description of all eight new achievements is viewable after the break. Annex ... here we come.

Continue reading New Gears of War achievements rundown

JoystiqNew Gears of War achievements rundown originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Jun 2007 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epicepic gamesEpicGamesgearsgears of warGearsOfWargowThu, 14 Jun 2007 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Gears of War achievements reward the dedicated]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/13/near-gears-of-war-achievements-reward-the-dedicated/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/13/near-gears-of-war-achievements-reward-the-dedicated/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/13/near-gears-of-war-achievements-reward-the-dedicated/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

New Gears of War achievements are coming June 14 at 2:00 a.m. GMT, which for those in the US means tonight at 10:00 p.m. EDT. A newsbrief on the GoW page outlines the eight new achievements for the Annex gametype and the Hidden Fronts multiplayer map pack.

These achievements are not for those looking for a quick way to upgrade their gamerscore, however, and are primarily for those who want to show off that they've logged in hundreds of hours of game time. Achievements are listed after the break.

Also included in the download is a patch that fixes a number of bugs in the game and multiplayer. The Annex gametype is currently available for free. The Hidden Fronts map pack is 800 MS points now but will go free September 3.

[Via Xbox 360 Fanboy; thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Continue reading New Gears of War achievements reward the dedicated

JoystiqNew Gears of War achievements reward the dedicated originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 Jun 2007 15:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementsepicgamerscoregears of warGearsOfWarmicrosoftxblmxbox liveXbox-360XboxLiveWed, 13 Jun 2007 15:25:00 EST<![CDATA[GoW Update & Achievements tomorrow]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/13/gow-update-and-achievements-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/13/gow-update-and-achievements-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/13/gow-update-and-achievements-tomorrow/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Major Nelson gives word that Gears of War's upcoming title update will be available at 2:00 AM GMT PDT, June 14th. Technically, that's still today in North American timezones. Either way, the update will have 8 new Achievements with a combined worth of 250 Gamerscore, relating to the Hidden Fronts map pack and the new Annex gametype. It also will refine the Roadie Run (again), and fix some exploits in the multiplayer. If you're dropped Gears for some other titles, will this draw you back in?

JoystiqGoW Update & Achievements tomorrow originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 Jun 2007 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Auto UpdateAutoUpdateEpicEpic GamesEpicGamesG o WGearsGears of WarGearsOfWarGOWHidden FrontHidden FrontsHiddenFrontHiddenFrontsTitle UpdateTitleUpdateUpdateWed, 13 Jun 2007 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Live Top Ten: Betacular]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/06/live-top-ten-betacular/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/06/live-top-ten-betacular/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/06/live-top-ten-betacular/#commentsFiled under: ,

This week's Live Top Ten shows a trend that will continue on through to the 10th. The Halo 3 Beta is being played a lot, by way of our actions Crackdown. Not enough to knock Gears of War of its top spot, but certainly enough to give the retail game second, and the beta in accesses in third. Of course, there is more on the list worth noting other than those three worth mentioning, such as the DiRT demo, or the free XBLA title, Aegis Wing. Full list can be found after the break, or you can just go back to playing the beta. We'll encourage you in your habit.

Continue reading Live Top Ten: Betacular

JoystiqLive Top Ten: Betacular originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jun 2007 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActionAegis WingAegisWingCrack downCrackDownDirtGears of WarGearsOfWarHalo 3Halo 3 BetaHalo3Halo3BetaL T 10L T TLive Top 10Live Top TenLiveTop10LiveTopTenLT10LTTMicrosoft-Game-StudiosRealtime-WorldsRiot-ActSandboxX B LXBLXbox LiveXbox Live ActivityXboxLiveWed, 06 Jun 2007 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumorong: Rein says Gears of War on PS3 is 'bull****']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/04/rumorong-rein-says-gears-of-war-on-ps3-rumor-is-bull/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/04/rumorong-rein-says-gears-of-war-on-ps3-rumor-is-bull/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/04/rumorong-rein-says-gears-of-war-on-ps3-rumor-is-bull/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Following rumors of Gears of War heading to the PS3, Epic Games came out with a statement shooting the whole thing down. Quite succinctly, Mark Rein, VP of Epic Games says, "This story is complete bull****. I emailed the site and asked them to take it down. We're very happy with our relationship with Microsoft. If it weren't for them Gears wouldn't be the huge hit it has become."

Mark Rein has said it before and he'll probably have to say it again. In conversations we've had with Rein here at Joystiq, he says that Epic is very happy with their Microsoft relationship. Do they disagree about marketplace transaction fees? Yes. But, like Rein has said in the past, it's Microsoft's store. Seriously, don't expect to see Gears on PS3.

JoystiqRumorong: Rein says Gears of War on PS3 is 'bull****' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Jun 2007 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gears of warmark reinmicrosoftPS3rumorongsonyXbox-360Mon, 04 Jun 2007 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gears of War book sighted online]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/01/gears-of-war-book-sighted-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/01/gears-of-war-book-sighted-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/01/gears-of-war-book-sighted-online/#commentsFiled under: ,

Besides eating and sleeping (and the dreaded "working"), you have to do something between gaming sessions. What better way to utilize this dead space than to read books about video games? If Gears of War is your thing, you're in luck, because It looks like a Gears of War book is in the works. We've found it listed at several retailers, including Wal-Mart. Assuming the listing is correct, the book is being written by game history guru, Steven Kent, most famous to gamers for his book, The Ultimate History of Video Games. Clocking in at 352 pages, the book is slated for an August release from Del Ray. We're assuming the title, Gears of War 1, is only a placeholder (it had better be).

What say you fanboys, are you in for some light summer reading? You know, explosions, eviscerations, that kind of thing.

[Via CVG]

JoystiqGears of War book sighted online originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Jun 2007 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epicepic gamesepic studiosEpicGamesEpicStudiosgearsgears of warGearsOfWargowmgsmicrosoft game studiosMicrosoftGameStudiosFri, 01 Jun 2007 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[UT3 shall be the prettiest of them all]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/30/ut3-shall-be-the-prettiest-of-them-all/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/30/ut3-shall-be-the-prettiest-of-them-all/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/30/ut3-shall-be-the-prettiest-of-them-all/#commentsFiled under:

In the latest issue of the Official Xbox Magazine Epic discusses everything Unreal Tournament 3 and says that the game will look graphically better than Gears of War. Epic says that the Unreal Engine 3 has been tweaked and improved for use on the 360 since Gears launched and they're taking full advantage of its capabilities. Lead designer Steven Polge's even goes as far as to say that UT3, "it's Gears on crack. Cover is for wimps!". OXM also confirmed the game's vehicle count, talks about the control scheme, and confirmed that UT3 will include four player campaign co-op over Xbox Live. But we're just excited to see how much prettier UT3 can actually get, because Gears already set the bar quite high.

[Thanks, DjDatz]

JoystiqUT3 shall be the prettiest of them all originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 May 2007 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epicepic gamesEpicGamesgears of warGearsOfWargowoxmunreal tournament 2007unreal tournament 3UnrealTournament2007UnrealTournament3ut3Wed, 30 May 2007 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New achievements in next Gears of War update]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/25/new-achievements-in-next-gears-of-war-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/25/new-achievements-in-next-gears-of-war-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/25/new-achievements-in-next-gears-of-war-update/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Epic Games Vice President Mark Rein has announced that the next Gears of War update will add "new achievements relating to Annex and the Hidden Fronts [downloadable content]."

Although Gears of War currently has the once-max 1000 gamerscore points alloted over 49 achievements, Microsoft amended the policy to allow an additional 250 points for new content. The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion utilized the new policy for its Shivering Isles expansion.

Rein also said that the update will tackle the "previously mentioned plan to improve roadie run" as well as more exploit squashing and the ever-popular 'general housekeeping.'" Not listed? The not-for-public-view Gears of War golf game. Come on Epic, give us Marcus Fenix putt-putt!

Gallery: Gears of War: Hidden Fronts map pack


Gallery: Gears of War: Annex Game Type



[Via Xbox 360 Fanboy]

JoystiqNew achievements in next Gears of War update originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 May 2007 19:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementsgears of warGearsOfWarxbox liveXbox-360XboxLiveFri, 25 May 2007 19:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Next Gears update will bring more achievements]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/25/next-gears-update-will-bring-more-achievements/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/25/next-gears-update-will-bring-more-achievements/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/25/next-gears-update-will-bring-more-achievements/#commentsFiled under: ,

Epic's Mark Rein hopped on the official Gears forums to tell everyone that they are working hard on the next auto update and that they've included a few unexpected goodies. Not only are they tweaking the roadie run as promised, but they are adding some glorious NEW achievements to both the Annex gametype and the Hidden Fronts DLC, taking advantage of the new Gamerscore policy. Rein also goes on to say that the update will take care of random exploits and general housekeeping, but that they do not have a firm release date for the update yet.

Brand new Gears achievements simply rocks! It's something that I have been vocal about and to my surprise is going to happen. Now, for those of us who've earned the Seriously achievement, we can milk Gears for even more Gamerscore points. Dreamy isn't it? It's almost as if the Gears of War angels (Epic Games) have flown down from the heavens and blessed us once again.

[Via GamingTalkHQ]

JoystiqNext Gears update will bring more achievements originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 May 2007 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementsepiepic gamesEpicGamesgearsgears of warGearsOfWargowmark reinMarkReinupdateFri, 25 May 2007 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Live Top Ten: It's the demos stupid]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/21/live-top-ten-its-the-demos-stupid/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/21/live-top-ten-its-the-demos-stupid/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/21/live-top-ten-its-the-demos-stupid/#commentsFiled under: ,

This week's Live Top Ten features the same big hitters that have been around for the past few months, but it is also sprinkled with a few demos that hit the Marketplace this past week. Both the Forza 2 and Area 51: Blacksite demos made it on the list at number two and four beating out games like Rainbow Six Vegas and Guitar Hero II. Also spurred into action was Crackdown which jumped to the number three spot probably due to its new content and the Halo 3 beta fanfare. Speaking of the Halo 3 beta, it didn't show up on the Live Top Ten list due to it being released later in the week, but you can nearly guarantee it'll be making an appearance next week. The complete top ten list is posted after the break for your viewing pleasure.

Continue reading Live Top Ten: It's the demos stupid

JoystiqLive Top Ten: It's the demos stupid originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 May 2007 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Actionblacksitecrackdowndemogears of warGearsOfWargowlive top tenLiveTopTenMicrosoft-Game-StudiosRealtime-WorldsRiot-ActSandboxxbox liveXboxLiveMon, 21 May 2007 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Saturday PSP background explosion]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/19/saturday-psp-background-explosion/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/19/saturday-psp-background-explosion/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/19/saturday-psp-background-explosion/#commentsFiled under:

Every week, PSP Fanboy brings you new backgrounds to rejuvinate the look of your PSP. Remember, you can save these images directly to your PSP by accessing the site wireless at m.pspfanboy.com. I still hadn't filled all the fan requests from 2 weeks ago, so I continue those this week. Did your background finally hit real street? Keep reading to find out!


Backgrounds after the jump ...

Continue reading Saturday PSP background explosion

JoystiqSaturday PSP background explosion originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 19 May 2007 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backgroundbackgroundsfreedom fightersFreedomFightersgears of warGearsOfWarpsp backgroundsPspBackgroundsunchartedSat, 19 May 2007 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MLG adds Gears of War to the 2007 season]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/19/mlg-adds-gears-of-war-to-the-2007-season/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/19/mlg-adds-gears-of-war-to-the-2007-season/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/19/mlg-adds-gears-of-war-to-the-2007-season/#commentsFiled under: ,


In an unexpected announcement, Major League Gaming has added Xbox 360 hit Gears of War to its 2007 season, starting with June's event held at the Meadowlands. For the rest of MLG's 2007 season, Gears 4v4 tournaments will be held at every event with the total prize payouts reaching $140,000 and the finals awarding $25,000 to the team who topples the competition. If interested in competing, be sure to head over to MLG's website to register for events and to get all the details. Who knows, maybe you could be the next "big thing" in gaming.

[Via Amped eSports]

JoystiqMLG adds Gears of War to the 2007 season originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 19 May 2007 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epicgearsgears of warGearsOfWargowmajor league gamingMajorLeagueGamingmlgSat, 19 May 2007 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Let's pull a Gears of War all-nighter]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/16/lets-pull-a-gears-of-war-all-nighter/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/16/lets-pull-a-gears-of-war-all-nighter/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/16/lets-pull-a-gears-of-war-all-nighter/#commentsFiled under: , ,

If you can find the strength to pry yourself away from the Halo 3 beta, we encourage you to pull a gaming all-nighter with our favorite over the shoulder shooter Gears of War. As part of Xbox.com's calendar of events, this Saturday, May 19th is scheduled to be a Gears of War all night frag fest. So, jump online, kill a few locusts (or COG members), and enjoy your friend's company into the early AM hours. And if you're willing to share your all-nighter story, send the Xbox Live team a brief writeup and a few pictures of you and your friends chillin' for a chance to win a hard bound copy of The Art of Gears of War book. Oh, and if you're feeling generous, have a pizza delivered over to Fanboy Towers. Our appetite increases during early morning gaming sessions.

JoystiqLet's pull a Gears of War all-nighter originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 May 2007 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all nighterAllNighterepicepic gamesEpicGamesgears of warGearsOfWargowxbox liveXboxLiveWed, 16 May 2007 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gears of War Golf? Not so fast ...]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/14/gears-of-war-golf-not-so-fast/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/14/gears-of-war-golf-not-so-fast/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/14/gears-of-war-golf-not-so-fast/#commentsFiled under: ,

If you think the Gears universe and golf go hand in hand, then you're thinking like a true game industry veteran. Because Mark Rein had the same idea when he talked with Edge Magazine and Games Radar has all the dirt. In the interview, Rein tells of a story when Epic's dev team created a Gears based golf game demo to prove to a Korean publisher that the Unreal Engine 3 could be used for other game genres. Gears Golf took roughly a day to make, features a pre-tee off sweep of the course, and uses the grenade tossing mechanic to aim up shots.

But sorry fellow Gears (or golf) fans, because Gears of War Golf was created solely as an internal demo and will not see an actual release. Too bad, because we were excited to see Marcus chainsawing opponents on the green in a rage after going two over par. Now that'd be sweet.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqGears of War Golf? Not so fast ... originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 May 2007 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epicepic gamesEpicGamesgears of wargears of war golfGearsOfWarGearsOfWarGolfgolfgowgow golfGowGolfMon, 14 May 2007 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gears of War multiplayer problems: where is everyone?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/05/gears-of-war-multiplayer-problems-where-is-everyone/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/05/gears-of-war-multiplayer-problems-where-is-everyone/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/05/gears-of-war-multiplayer-problems-where-is-everyone/#commentsFiled under: , ,


[UPDATE: this appears to be system wide across Xbox Live with other games being affected as well. As several people have pointed out, it could be tied to the imminent Dashboard update. We've contacted Microsoft for some answers.]

This is one of those things we experienced firsthand, and thought "Gee, we wonder if people are talking about this on the internet." We were right. Ah yes, the internet, where everyone (including us) turns to when there's a problem with anything. If you have a doctor who looks up your ailments on Wikipedia, you might want a second opinion.

Anyhow, we downloaded the new Gears of War map pack yesterday, and jumped into multiplayer to get some game on. However, every time we searched for games, usually only one or two would show up. What the heck? Normally you'll have tons of games listed, so there must be something going on. We've emailed Epic for an answer, but until then we remain frag-inhibited. The one or two matches that do show up play fine, but we want some options to choose from.

JoystiqGears of War multiplayer problems: where is everyone? originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 05 May 2007 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Gears of WarGearsOfWarmap packmultiplayerXbox-360Sat, 05 May 2007 18:29:00 EST<![CDATA[First look at GoW's Hidden Fronts map pack]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/04/first-look-at-gows-hidden-fronts-map-pack/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/04/first-look-at-gows-hidden-fronts-map-pack/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/04/first-look-at-gows-hidden-fronts-map-pack/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Still on the fence and not sure if you want to spend 800 Microsoft points on the new Gears of War Hidden Fronts map pack? Well, we fully understand your dilemma and thought we'd help out our fellow fanboys. Not only did we plop down the cash to buy the map pack, but we thought we'd pull back the secret curtain. Yup, we recorded a quick and dirty video of each map and showcased their uniqueness to give you a taste of what Hidden Fronts has to offer. And, as an added bonus, the video features informative (and somewhat creative) commentary by yours truly. But before you start mocking our lovely video you must know this is our first foray into such a project. Energy drinks were consumed, there was a bunch of swearing, recording, editing, recording, re-editing, and swearing ... but we survived. So, give it a watch, get a taste of the new Gears maps, and see if they are worth the 800 Microsoft points. Enjoy.

[Thanks, Grotesque1 for helping with the vid]

JoystiqFirst look at GoW's Hidden Fronts map pack originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 May 2007 03:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gearsgears of warGearsOfWargowhidden frontsHiddenFrontsmarketplacexblmxbox live marketplaceXboxLiveMarketplaceFri, 04 May 2007 03:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gears of War 'Hidden Fronts' map pack now available]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/03/gears-of-war-hidden-fronts-map-pack-now-available/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/03/gears-of-war-hidden-fronts-map-pack-now-available/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/03/gears-of-war-hidden-fronts-map-pack-now-available/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Containing four new maps and a strong allusion to bulletproof codpieces, the "Hidden Fronts" map pack for testosterone explosion simulator, Gears of War, is now available for download on the Xbox Live Marketplace. In exchange for 800 MS points ($10), you'll receive approximately 230 megabytes of data that will automagically congeal on your hard drive and form beautiful, post-apocalyptic environments.

Those less intent on wiping out the Locust horde can wait until September 3rd for the maps to become free of charge.

Gallery: Gears of War: Hidden Fronts map pack

JoystiqGears of War 'Hidden Fronts' map pack now available originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 May 2007 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EpicEpic GamesEpicGamesGears of WarGearsOfWarMicrosoftMSFTXBLMXbox LiveXbox Live MarketplaceXbox-360XboxLiveXboxLiveMarketplaceThu, 03 May 2007 14:29:00 EST<![CDATA["Hidden Fronts" Map Pack now available]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/03/hidden-fronts-map-pack-now-available/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/03/hidden-fronts-map-pack-now-available/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/03/hidden-fronts-map-pack-now-available/#commentsFiled under: , ,


So after the announcement and the subsequent screenshots, the Gears of War "Hidden Fronts" Multiplayer Map Pack is now available on Xbox Live Marketplace. Complete with four maps, Bullet Marsh, Garden, Process and Subway, you can download it now for 800 MS Points, or, if you have that much will power, or that little interest, you can get the maps for free on September 3rd, 2007. So, are you going to get it now, and play with your friends who have it, perhaps even being strong armed into buying it to stay competitive, or should we wake you up when September ends?

Joystiq"Hidden Fronts" Map Pack now available originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 May 2007 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EpicGearsGears of WarGearsOfWarHidden FrontsHiddenFrontsMarket PlaceMarketPlaceXbox LiveXbox Live MarketplaceXboxLiveXboxLiveMarketplaceThu, 03 May 2007 09:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Welcome to Hidden Fronts, we'll be your guide]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/02/welcome-to-hidden-fronts-well-be-your-guide/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/02/welcome-to-hidden-fronts-well-be-your-guide/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/02/welcome-to-hidden-fronts-well-be-your-guide/#commentsFiled under: , ,


TeamXbox received some celebrity treatment the other day when they got some hands on time with Gears of War's latest multiplayer maps from the Hidden Fronts map pack. And it's safe to say they were impressed. The guys played in Microsoft's test lab against a few mysterious game testers, getting a feel for the maps, and getting pwned in the process. A quick recap of their impressions are as follows; Garden features dense vegetation and green clouds of pesticide that'll kill you, but can be shut off via a control panel. Bullet Marsh is dark, very dark, and if the generator is turned off the map will get even darker and the Kryll will attack to kill. Process is chalk full of vertical elevation shifts, catwalks, and pipes ... a long distance killing machine's dream. Finally, Subway features multiple levels of fun, empty subway cars, beautiful rays of light, and dirty floors. Make the jump for TeamXbox's full impressions and be sure to check out GoW's Hidden Fronts map pack, available tomorrow for 800 Microsoft points.

[Thanks, MuJaHiDeEn 420]

JoystiqWelcome to Hidden Fronts, we'll be your guide originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 May 2007 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epicgearsgears of warGearsOfWargowhidden frontsHiddenFrontsmarketplacepreviewxblmxbox live marketplaceXboxLiveMarketplaceWed, 02 May 2007 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA["Hidden Fronts" screenshots hit the tubes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/01/hidden-fronts-screenshots-hit-the-tubes/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/01/hidden-fronts-screenshots-hit-the-tubes/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/01/hidden-fronts-screenshots-hit-the-tubes/#commentsFiled under: ,


Not long after we announced the upcoming Multiplayer Map Pack for Gears of War, we were sent screenshots of the four arenas. We have to say, they look mighty nice. Our favorites being that of Garden and Bullet Marsh, which both really take the "destroyed" beauty motif to the next level. Process looks nice, with the eery yellow glow of the Imulsion surrounding the battlefield, but Subway looks kind of run of the mill in the available shots. What do you think of the levels? The rest of the map shots are available after the break.

Continue reading "Hidden Fronts" screenshots hit the tubes

Joystiq"Hidden Fronts" screenshots hit the tubes originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 May 2007 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EpicG o WGearsGears of WarGearsOfWarGOWHidden FrontsHiddenFrontsMarket PlaceMarketPlaceX B L MXBLMXbox Live MarketplaceXboxLiveMarketplaceTue, 01 May 2007 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GoW "Hidden Fronts" Map Pack hitting Thursday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/01/gow-hidden-fronts-map-pack-hitting-thursday/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/01/gow-hidden-fronts-map-pack-hitting-thursday/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/01/gow-hidden-fronts-map-pack-hitting-thursday/#commentsFiled under: , ,


On Thursday May 3rd at 4:00 AM EDT, four new Gears of War maps will be hitting Xbox Live Marketplace as part of the "Hidden Fronts" Multiplayer Map Pack. Running you 800 Microsoft Points, you'll be able to do battle on Process, Garden, Subway, and Bullet Marsh. For those of you concerned about the price, fret not, as you'll be able to download the pack for free four months later, on September 3rd, 2007. We've got the map descriptions from the press release after the break, but the question we've got for you is this: Are you going to get the maps now, or wait a bit first to see if it's worth your hard earned points and hold off till they're free in the fall?

Continue reading GoW "Hidden Fronts" Map Pack hitting Thursday

JoystiqGoW "Hidden Fronts" Map Pack hitting Thursday originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 May 2007 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EpicG o WGearsGears of WarGearsOfWarGOWHidden FrontsHiddenFrontsMarket placeMarketPlaceX B L MXBLMXbox Live MarketplaceXboxLiveMarketplaceTue, 01 May 2007 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gears of War movie script leaked]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/29/gears-of-war-movie-script-leaked/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/29/gears-of-war-movie-script-leaked/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/29/gears-of-war-movie-script-leaked/#commentsFiled under: ,

The sneaky lads over at LatinoReview.com have unearthed the first twenty two pages of our Gears of War movie script. The website, known for posting legit movie scripts prior to their release, summarized the leaked GoW movie script in full detail. And it's weird that since the movie's announcement all we've wanted is more information, any information on the movie. But now that the first twenty two pages have been leaked and are ready to read, we just cannot look at it. Call us wusses, call us babies, but we don't want to spoil the enjoyment we'll feel when we see Gears on the big screen and watching the story unfold for the first time. Nope, we refuse to taint our Gears movie fun, but if you're daring enough to read all the juicy details by all means go ahead. We're just crazy anal about things like that.

[Thanks, Machiavelli 420]

JoystiqGears of War movie script leaked originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 29 Apr 2007 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epicgearsgears of wargears of war movieGearsOfWarGearsOfWarMoviegowgow moviegow moviewGowMovieGowMoviewmovieSun, 29 Apr 2007 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[WRUP: beta late than neva edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/27/wrup-beta-late-than-neva-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/27/wrup-beta-late-than-neva-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/27/wrup-beta-late-than-neva-edition/#commentsFiled under:


So, the weekend is officially upon us, and at least in the Great White North, the forecast is wet and gloomy, which pretty much means sitting back in a Sumo lounge chair and gaming away. We'll probably try to get some final matches of Shadowrun in before the beta ends Monday night, rock out to Guitar Hero II, or go back to old favorites like Oblivion and Gears of War. But that's us. What of you, fellow fanboy, what are you going to be playing?


Leaderboards:
Xbox 360 Fanboy Leaderboard
Xbox 360 Fanboy Leaderboard Mk. II

X360F Gamertags:
Richard Mitchell -- SenseiRAM
Dustin Burg -- SuperDunners
David Dreger -- Knuckles Dawson

JoystiqWRUP: beta late than neva edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Apr 2007 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>G H IIG o WGearsGears of WarGearsOfWarGHIiGOWGuitar Hero IIGuitarHeroIiOblivionShadow RunShadowRunw r u pwhat are you playingWhatAreYouPlayingWRUPFri, 27 Apr 2007 17:00:00 EST