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[Call of Juarez: Bound in Blood to depict 'the wildest West ever']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/13/call-of-juarez-bound-in-blood-to-depict-the-wildest-west-ever/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/13/call-of-juarez-bound-in-blood-to-depict-the-wildest-west-ever/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/13/call-of-juarez-bound-in-blood-to-depict-the-wildest-west-ever/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Though we pray it doesn't foreshadow the appearance of giant mechanical spiders or Will Smith, Ubisoft describes its newly announced shooter, Call of Juarez: Bound in Blood, as featuring "the wildest West ever depicted." Judging by our previous exposure to Wests of varying wildness -- like in 2007's Call of Juarez -- we'd estimate that this particular West would have to be astonishingly lawless and violent for it to be considered the wildest ever.

Regardless, Tony Key, senior vice president of sales and marketing at Ubisoft, feels confident that another collaboration with developer Techland is entirely called for. "We're confident this new collaboration with Techland will bring an even bigger and better adventure to fans of shooters and the lawless Wild West," he said. Of course, true fans of the lawless Wild West will probably just be downloading this from Juarez sites.

Look for the wildest-West-ever prequel on PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 and PC later this year.

JoystiqCall of Juarez: Bound in Blood to depict 'the wildest West ever' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Jan 2009 13:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Call-of-JuarezCall-of-Juarez-Bound-in-BloodFPSJS-TwitterPCPS3TechlandUbisoftWildest-West-EvarXbox-360Tue, 13 Jan 2009 13:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Oh, the '80s: Alec Baldwin's hard nights ended with ... Galaga]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/12/oh-the-80s-alec-baldwins-hard-nights-ended-with-galaga/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/12/oh-the-80s-alec-baldwins-hard-nights-ended-with-galaga/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/12/oh-the-80s-alec-baldwins-hard-nights-ended-with-galaga/#commentsFiled under: ,


Before he was a thorn in Tina Fey's side as the Vice President of East Coast Television and Microwave Oven Programming at GE, Alec Baldwin was something of a sot, spending much of the '80s in a haze of "sex, drugs, booze." And when it came to sobering up, it wasn't coffee that was his drug of choice. It was Galaga, though we imagine blurred vision kept him from ever putting in his initials.

Baldwin writes in the book "Moments of Clarity" that evenings of debauchery would often end in a warehouse with him playing the arcade classic into the morning. "This was the only way I could go 'beta' and go into that state I needed to be, where I could calm down and take my mind off everything," recalled the actor, who confessed that God got him sober. And while the 30 Rock star oddly describes the deity as a "65-year-old retired postal worker named Lenny," we still like to think that the Galagans played their part.

See how classic arcade games, like Galaga, have been updated for the modern audience:

JoystiqOh, the '80s: Alec Baldwin's hard nights ended with ... Galaga originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Jan 2009 23:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>30-rock80salchoholalec-baldwinarcadedrinkinggalagajs-twitterMon, 12 Jan 2009 23:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead or Alive's Valance joins Red Alert 3: Uprising camp]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/12/dead-or-alives-valance-joins-red-alert-3-uprising-camp/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/12/dead-or-alives-valance-joins-red-alert-3-uprising-camp/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/12/dead-or-alives-valance-joins-red-alert-3-uprising-camp/#commentsFiled under: ,


Dead or Alive actress Holly Valance is trading in her sword (and vial of box office poison) for a pen and paper as journalist Brenda Snow in the recently announced Red Alert 3: Uprising. Valance will lend her live action camp to the upcoming expansion, which is earmarked for a digital-only release this March.

The Australian-born starlet describes her role in the game as "a camp, over-dramatised character," telling Eurogamer that "it was fun to go a little bit over the top." We're sure that's quite a change from DoA's Christie Allen. The four people who saw that movie tell us that she was the very picture of Hollywood grace.

JoystiqDead or Alive's Valance joins Red Alert 3: Uprising camp originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Jan 2009 22:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>celectronic-artscommand-and-conquerdead-or-aliveeaElectronic-Artsexpansionjs-twitterPCred-alertred-alert-3red-alert-3-uprisingtecmoMon, 12 Jan 2009 22:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Retail: Tomb Raider Underworld DLC coming Jan. 21]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/12/retail-tomb-raider-underworld-dlc-coming-jan-21/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/12/retail-tomb-raider-underworld-dlc-coming-jan-21/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/12/retail-tomb-raider-underworld-dlc-coming-jan-21/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Finally, some Tomb Raider news that's about, you know, tombs. Specifically, the downloadable kind meant to extend Lara Croft's latest -- and commercially disappointing -- adventure, Tomb Raider Underworld. Eidos had promised two Xbox 360-exclusive episodes, with the first initially scheduled to arrive by Christmas. Sadly, the only things to be released by developer Crystal Dynamics thus far are thirty employees.

Though an official post-delay date has yet to be confirmed by Eidos, retailer GameStop currently lists a Tomb Raider Underworld "Expansion Token Pack," which is said to contain two Xbox Live Marketplace Token cards. According to the product page, the pack will cost $19.99 and ship on Wednesday, January 21st. If we were prone to bouts of speculation, we'd say that the presence of two cards indicates that both DLC packs ("Beneath the Ashes" and "Lara's Shadow") will be released simultaneously on Xbox Live at a combined cost of 1600.

If we were prone to such silly things -- we'll let you know what Eidos has to say as soon as possible.

JoystiqRetail: Tomb Raider Underworld DLC coming Jan. 21 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Jan 2009 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Beneath-the-AshesCrystal-DynamicsDLCEidosJS-TwitterLara-CroftLaras-ShadowTomb-RaiderTomb-Raider-UnderworldXbox-360Xbox-LiveMon, 12 Jan 2009 14:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Red Alert 3 expanding in March with 'Uprising']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/08/red-alert-3-expanding-in-march-with-uprising/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/08/red-alert-3-expanding-in-march-with-uprising/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/08/red-alert-3-expanding-in-march-with-uprising/#commentsFiled under: ,


Don't count the filthy Reds out yet, as Electronic Arts has detailed Uprising, an upcoming expansion to Command & Conquer: Red Alert 3. The add-on will send players back to the front lines with a new single-player campaign, new units and a greater quantity of live-action cutscenes, just in case the original's love affair with camp left you wanting more.

Uprising will also include a new mode, dubbed 'Commander's Challenge', which will allow players to test their strategic skills across 50 different stages with different rules and conditions. However, while Red Alert 3 is available for the Xbox 360 and a PS3 version should arrive ... someday ... only those playing on computers will be able to come away with bragging rights. Uprising will be a PC exclusive when it is released as a digital download in March.

JoystiqRed Alert 3 expanding in March with 'Uprising' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Jan 2009 10:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingnewscommand-and-conquereaelectronic-artsexpansionjs-twitterPCred-alertred-alert-3red-alert-3-uprisingThu, 08 Jan 2009 10:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Fable 2's Knothole Island add-on coming Jan. 13]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/08/fable-2s-knothole-island-add-on-coming-jan-13/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/08/fable-2s-knothole-island-add-on-coming-jan-13/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/08/fable-2s-knothole-island-add-on-coming-jan-13/#commentsFiled under: ,


click for high-res Knothole Island gallery

Those who have uncovered every treasure, bludgeoned every bandit and cracked every wisecracking gargoyle in Albion will be pleased to note that Fable 2's Knothole Island add-on (800), initially delayed due to technical issues, is now scheduled to arrive on Xbox Live Marketplace next Tuesday, January 13th. The downloadable detour will add an isle's worth of quests, items and specialty shops for you to uncover and / or fart at.

Lionhead's community blog notes that January 13th will also bring a free title update which fans -- and Oakfield's abbot -- have been eagerly awaiting. You can look forward to new items, clothing and leaderboards being patched in along with the, uh, patch.

Gallery: Fable 2: Knothole Island (DLC)

JoystiqFable 2's Knothole Island add-on coming Jan. 13 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Jan 2009 09:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActionBreakingNewsDLCfablefable-2JS-TwitterKnothole-IslandLionheadLionhead-StudiosMGSMicrosoft-Game-StudiosRPGTitle-UpdateXBLMXbox-360Thu, 08 Jan 2009 09:43:00 EST<![CDATA[CES 2009: Halo Wars demo coming to Xbox Live on Feb. 5]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/07/ces-2009-halo-wars-demo-coming-to-live-on-feb-5/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/07/ces-2009-halo-wars-demo-coming-to-live-on-feb-5/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/07/ces-2009-halo-wars-demo-coming-to-live-on-feb-5/#commentsFiled under: ,


Microsoft's entertainment and devices boss, Robbie Bach, revealed during the company's CES 2009 keynote that a demo of Ensemble Studios' Halo Wars will hit Xbox Live Marketplace on February 5th. Additionally, Bach announced a February 28th ship date for the full game, which fits nicely with what Microsoft had previously announced. If the demo is anything like most others -- i.e., the earliest parts of the game -- it will likely contain a lot of what we played just a couple of months back.

Gallery: Halo Wars

JoystiqCES 2009: Halo Wars demo coming to Xbox Live on Feb. 5 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Jan 2009 22:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingnewsces-2009demoensemble-studioshalo-warsjs-twittermicrosoftXbox-360Wed, 07 Jan 2009 22:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Mad Catz reveals Street Fighter IV controllers, accessories]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/07/mad-catz-reveals-street-fighter-iv-controllers-accessories/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/07/mad-catz-reveals-street-fighter-iv-controllers-accessories/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/07/mad-catz-reveals-street-fighter-iv-controllers-accessories/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


click for high-res product gallery

With a little more than a month left before Street Fighter IV hurricane kicks its way to retail, the peripheral mystics at Mad Catz have announced a bevy of SFIV-themed accessories. Now, even if you don't know your sonic boom from your yoga flame you'll at least look like you do.

Set for release alongside the anticipated fighter's February debut, the lineup includes an official Street Fighter IV controller and arcade stick for the Xbox 360 and PS3, each adorned with the game's unique art style. Additionally, those pining for a more authentic arcade experience can pick up the stick's 'Tournament Edition,' which will feature "arcade quality" components and a design overseen by SFIV producer Yoshinori Ono. Not enough? A wall scroll, console stickies and faceplates are also on the way, though we expect true fans to dye their skin green or comb their blond hair to preposterous heights before they stand a chance to defeat Sheng Long.

Gallery: Mad Catz Street Fighter IV controllers

Xbox 360 SFIV FightStick TournamentPS3 Street Fighter IV FightStickPS3 SFIV FighTPad RyuPS3 SFIV FightPad Chun Li

JoystiqMad Catz reveals Street Fighter IV controllers, accessories originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Jan 2009 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Capcomjs-twitterMad-CatzPS3SFIVStreet-Fighter-IVXbox-360Wed, 07 Jan 2009 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CES 2009: No Rock Band 3 in 2009]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/07/ces-2009-no-rock-band-3-in-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/07/ces-2009-no-rock-band-3-in-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/07/ces-2009-no-rock-band-3-in-2009/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


We were wondering why EA would pit an upcoming Beatles/Rock Band hybrid against the next numbered iteration of the series this fall, and now we have our answer: It won't. According to Harmonix CEO Alex Rigopolous, who spoke at a Billboard CES session today, the company will be breaking the annual release cycle and avoid releasing Rock Band 3 this year.

Are we alone in hoping Harmonix avoids releasing it in 2010 also?

JoystiqCES 2009: No Rock Band 3 in 2009 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Jan 2009 19:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingnewsces-2009js-twitterPS2PS3rock-band-3WiiXbox-360Wed, 07 Jan 2009 19:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: UGO buys 1UP, EGM dead [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/06/official-ugo-buys-1up-egm-dead/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/06/official-ugo-buys-1up-egm-dead/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/06/official-ugo-buys-1up-egm-dead/#commentsFiled under: ,


Within hours of our earlier post regarding 1UP's reported sale to the Hearst-owned UGO network, the deal was confirmed in individual press releases from both entities. Additionally, Ziff-Davis has made official the closure of EGM after nearly 20 years of publication. It's January issue -- currently on sale -- will be its last.

1UP editorial director, Sam Kennedy, is quoted in the release, saying that the site's staff is "extremely excited to join the UGO team." UGO's release states that 1UP.com will operate as a separate entity and implies that its current staff will remain in place. The sale to Hearst also includes GameVideos.com, MyCheats.com and GameTab.com.

The shuttering of EGM -- the oldest multi-platform games magazine in the US -- leaves GamePro and Game Informer as the last bastions of what, with today's news, continues to be the dying breed of print media.

Update: There's not much in the way of new info, but Gamasutra got their mitts on an internal email from Ziff CEO Jason Young, who tells the staff that "more scale is necessary to effectively compete in this market segment." So UGO's planning to keep growing 1UP? Then why kill off the 1UP Show and layoff 30+ people? One other note: Ziff "will continue to operate the Filefront business as a part of the PCMag Digital Network." More as we hear it.

Source - Ziff-Davis press release
Source - UGO press release

JoystiqOfficial: UGO buys 1UP, EGM dead [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Jan 2009 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1upbreakingnewsegmelectronic-gaming-monthlyhearstjs-twitterugoTue, 06 Jan 2009 19:25:00 EST<![CDATA[PaidContent.org reports EGM's death, pulls story [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/06/paidcontent-org-reports-egms-death-pulls-story/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/06/paidcontent-org-reports-egms-death-pulls-story/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/06/paidcontent-org-reports-egms-death-pulls-story/#commentsFiled under:


Update: As you can see here, it's official.

Earlier today, media business site paidContent.org reported that video game media hub 1UP had been sold to Hearst (which runs competing hub UGO), and that the organization would be shuttering Electronic Gaming Monthly. You may remember that we reported that both moves were under discussion last month. PaidContent's report has since been pulled, but the full details were related by former 1UPer John Davison's What They Play. WTP then reported that sources had told them that the story would be validated or denied tomorrow.

If this is on the level (and we have no reason to think it's not), it's a sad day for fans of video game magazines and game journalism in general. If it comes to pass, here's hoping everyone affected lands on their feet.

JoystiqPaidContent.org reports EGM's death, pulls story [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Jan 2009 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1upBreakingNewsegmJS-TwitterugoTue, 06 Jan 2009 17:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq's Top 10 Games of 2008]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/01/joystiqs-top-10-games-of-2008/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/01/joystiqs-top-10-games-of-2008/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/01/joystiqs-top-10-games-of-2008/#comments
Our very favorite game of the year is a sequel. There's a hideous number appended to its title, a numeric symbol meant to conjure up lukewarm reassurance and a promise of something familiar, proven and agreeable. Odd then, that another number -- 2008 -- evokes something else entirely.

If anything, 2008 was a year marked by unpredictability, polarization and ... whatever fancy word that adequately encapsulates people yelling at each other on the internet. For every refined sequel we loved, there was an ambitious experiment to be loathed. And for every disappointing been-there-done-that, somebody was taking us to places we'd never been to nor done.

This mix of new and old (Did you know? Our ten picks this year contain 50% new IP!) made our selection process particularly tumultuous, with many a flared temper and obnoxious remark clashing in the echoing realm of the blogosphere. And it's not because we liked a lot of games. It's because we loved a lot of games, whether they were brave, bigger, bold or more badass.

Besides, it's not like we can make it a top seventeen or something. That's just a weird number.

First: Only the reviews made us throw up.

JoystiqJoystiq's Top 10 Games of 2008 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 01 Jan 2009 12:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best-of-2008BreakingNewsJoystiqFeaturesJS-TwitterThu, 01 Jan 2009 12:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq interview: Unbolting Game Mechanic Studios]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/30/joystiq-interview-unbolting-game-mechanic-studios/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/30/joystiq-interview-unbolting-game-mechanic-studios/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/30/joystiq-interview-unbolting-game-mechanic-studios/#commentsFiled under: ,


While most of us were unconscious on Christmas morning, resigned to watch on as sugar plums danced on as only anthropomorphic candy can, newly christened game developer Game Mechanic Studios was busy lifting the curtain on its freshman project, a mysterious shooter codenamed Art of War.

According to the studio, the game will cast players in the role of a "reclusive millionaire" and art lover hilariously named Warren Canvas, as he revisits famous past battlegrounds which have "all been re-imagined in an exciting new way." Little else is known, though the company notes that Mr. Canvas may have his work cut out for him, teasing that "20:1 odds will be a beautiful thing!"

Dazed and confused, we recently stumbled into studio co-founder Jason Alejandre, an industry vet who made his first footprint in the industry developing for the Sega Genesis. We took the opportunity to ask Alejandre more about Game Mechanic Studios and Art of War, as well as how he plans to make his studio thrive in such an uncertain economic climate.

Continue reading Joystiq interview: Unbolting Game Mechanic Studios

JoystiqJoystiq interview: Unbolting Game Mechanic Studios originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 30 Dec 2008 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>art-of-warartofwargame-mechanic-studiosjoystiqfeaturesjs-twitterTue, 30 Dec 2008 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Telling stories: The next hurdle for story telling]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/29/telling-stories-the-next-hurdle-for-story-telling/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/29/telling-stories-the-next-hurdle-for-story-telling/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/29/telling-stories-the-next-hurdle-for-story-telling/#commentsFiled under: ,


As games have evolved, so too has the role of storytelling in the titles we play. As we turn the corner on 2008, we asked multiple industry personalities across all walks of game development on titles such as Dragon Age: Origins, Bionic Commando and Guild Wars for their thoughts.

What's next for in-game story telling? In this, our final segment looking at video game narratives, our collective of industry professionals offer insight into what they believe is the next big challenge facing the evolution of story telling in the games we play.

Continue reading Telling stories: The next hurdle for story telling

JoystiqTelling stories: The next hurdle for story telling originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Dec 2008 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bionic-commandobionic-commando-rearmedcity-of-heroesgalactic-civilizationsgalactic-civilizations-iigringuild-warsguild-wars-2joystiqfeaturesjs-twittermastiffmoonnamconamco-bandaincsoftncsoft-norcalrenegade-kidresistance-retributionsonysony-bendsplatterhousestardocktelling-storiesMon, 29 Dec 2008 09:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Telling stories: The games that got it right]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/26/telling-stories-the-games-that-got-it-right/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/26/telling-stories-the-games-that-got-it-right/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/26/telling-stories-the-games-that-got-it-right/#commentsFiled under: ,


As games have evolved, so too has the role of storytelling in the titles we play. As we turn the corner on 2008, we asked multiple industry personalities across all walks of game development on titles such as Dragon Age: Origins, Bionic Commando and Guild Wars for their thoughts.

It's rare that story tellers get all of the pieces of their narrative to fit together exactly right in any medium. But in this industry, where story shares a balance with gameplay and endings often get the short end of the development stick, weaving a complete and compelling tale must be a daunting task. Now, gifts unwrapped and bellies full, our panel of industry personalities sound off on those games that they feel were up to the challenge, delivering storytelling experiences above and beyond their peers.

Continue reading Telling stories: The games that got it right

JoystiqTelling stories: The games that got it right originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Dec 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bionic-commandobionic-commando-rearmedcity-of-heroesgalactic-civilizationsgalactic-civilizations-iigringuild-warsguild-wars-2joystiqfeaturesjs-twittermastiffmoonnamconamco-bandaincsoftncsoft-norcalrenegade-kidresistance-retributionsonysony-bendsplatterhousestardocktelling-storiesFri, 26 Dec 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Merry Consumermas ... so what didja get?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/25/happy-consumermas-from-joystiq-so-what-didja-get/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/25/happy-consumermas-from-joystiq-so-what-didja-get/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/25/happy-consumermas-from-joystiq-so-what-didja-get/#commentsFiled under:

Christmas, Xmas, Consumermas, Christmahanakwanza, Ludachristmas. If you celebrated any of these holidays, or if you had to cower in fear as robot Santa flew overhead looking for easy prey, we want to hear about it. More importantly, we want to know what presents you got, too -- game-related mostly, but if you want to tell us about your other presents, we'll sit here politely and listen. Our gift to you is after the break -- trust us, if you haven't seen Santa Claus Conquers the Martians before, you're really missing out.

For a trip down memory lane, check out our Consumermas posts from 2006 and 2007.

Continue reading Merry Consumermas ... so what didja get?

JoystiqMerry Consumermas ... so what didja get? originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Dec 2008 12:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>christmasconsuermasholidayholidaysjs-twitterxmasThu, 25 Dec 2008 12:20:00 EST<![CDATA[LGJ: Wrath of the Discrimination King]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/24/lgj-wrath-of-the-discrimination-king/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/24/lgj-wrath-of-the-discrimination-king/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/24/lgj-wrath-of-the-discrimination-king/#commentsFiled under:

Each week Mark Methenitis contributes Law of the Game on Joystiq ("LGJ"), a column on legal issues as they relate to video games:

GamePolitics recent posted a report that some employers may be 'discriminating' against World of Warcraft players. In fact, there have been longstanding reports of gamers, generally, not being the most favored employee in some workplaces. Of course, as soon as anyone reads the word 'discrimination' they immediately think 'lawsuit.' Whether that's an unfortunate byproduct of the direction of the American legal system or something else entirely is a discussion for another day. Today, rather, I want to take a look at the question of whether gamer discrimination could give rise to an employment discrimination lawsuit.

Continue reading LGJ: Wrath of the Discrimination King

JoystiqLGJ: Wrath of the Discrimination King originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Dec 2008 22:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>discriminationemployeeemployeesemployersemploymentjs-twitterlawlaw-of-the-gameworld-of-warcraftWed, 24 Dec 2008 22:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Video service coming to Wii, says Nikkei]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/24/video-service-coming-to-wii-says-nikkei/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/24/video-service-coming-to-wii-says-nikkei/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/24/video-service-coming-to-wii-says-nikkei/#commentsFiled under:


A video distribution service is coming to Nintendo Wii, according to Nikkei business daily (via Reuters). Working with ad agency Dentsu, Inc., the service will offer original content in the form of cartoons and "other entertainment programs" and is seen as a "new revenue stream" for the company (read: our large vault of money needs a diving board made from diamonds). Not much else is known at the moment. The service will first launch in Japan early 2009 and overseas later in the year.

JoystiqVideo service coming to Wii, says Nikkei originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Dec 2008 20:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingnewsdentsujs-twitternikkeinintendovideovodWiiWed, 24 Dec 2008 20:54:00 EST<![CDATA[LocoRoco 2 coming to North America on Feb. 10]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/24/locoroco-2-coming-to-north-america-on-feb-10/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/24/locoroco-2-coming-to-north-america-on-feb-10/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/24/locoroco-2-coming-to-north-america-on-feb-10/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Well, this news is sure to leave you smiling ear to ear for the next week -- a tad awkward if you're meant to be at a funeral in the near future, but that's just how LocoRoco rolls. The giggling explosion of euphoric colors, more elegantly dubbed "LocoRoco 2," is officially slated to arrive in North America on Feb 10, 2009.

The PlayStation Blog notes that the anticipated sequel will be available then on UMD, but we hope to see a version of LocoRoco 2 arrive on the PlayStation Store as well (Japan's doing it!). It'll save us the trip into the outside world, which we hear is a rather dour place.

Gallery: LocoRoco 2

JoystiqLocoRoco 2 coming to North America on Feb. 10 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Dec 2008 12:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BreakingNewsFebruary-GamesJS-TwitterLocoRoco-2PSPSCEASCEJSony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericaSony-Computer-Entertainment-JapanWed, 24 Dec 2008 12:52:00 EST<![CDATA[Castle Crashers Title Update now available ... finally!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/24/castle-crashers-title-update-now-available-finally/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/24/castle-crashers-title-update-now-available-finally/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/24/castle-crashers-title-update-now-available-finally/#commentsFiled under:

Can it really be? Are our eyes deceiving us? Even when The Behemoth said last night that the long-long-awaited Castle Crashers Title Update would launch today, we didn't believe it -- but sure enough, the patch is live. We don't know the exact size, but the update took mere seconds to install. We just tried a four-player online match and it ran flawlessly. No official patch notes are out yet, but let us know if your castle crashing issues have been resolved.

Update: Partial list of patch notes here.

JoystiqCastle Crashers Title Update now available ... finally! originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Dec 2008 10:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>behemothbreakingnewscastle-crashersjs-twitterpatchthe-behemothtitle-updateXbox-360Wed, 24 Dec 2008 10:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Telling stories: How much is that ending in the window?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/24/telling-stories-how-much-is-that-ending-in-the-window/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/24/telling-stories-how-much-is-that-ending-in-the-window/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/24/telling-stories-how-much-is-that-ending-in-the-window/#commentsFiled under: ,


As games have evolved, so too has the role of storytelling in the titles we play. As we turn the corner on 2008, we asked multiple industry personalities across all walks of game development on titles such as Dragon Age: Origins, Bionic Commando and Guild Wars for their thoughts.

Epic Games' Michael Capps recently caused quite an uproar among gamers with his suggestion to offer the conclusion to games as premium DLC rather than as part of the core experience. As the latest in our continuing week-long feature, we asked our panel of industry personalities what they thought of the proposal. Interestingly, much of the group was noticibly more tight-lipped in their responses than when answering other questions.

Continue reading Telling stories: How much is that ending in the window?

JoystiqTelling stories: How much is that ending in the window? originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Dec 2008 10:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bionic-commandobionic-commando-rearmedcity-of-heroesgalactic-civilizationsgalactic-civilizations-iigringuild-warsguild-wars-2joystiqfeaturesjs-twittermastiffmoonncsoftncsoft-norcalrenegade-kidresistance-retributionsonysony-bendsplatterhousestardocktelling-storiesWed, 24 Dec 2008 10:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Branching Dialogue: R.I.P. Death]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/23/branching-dialogue-r-i-p-death/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/23/branching-dialogue-r-i-p-death/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/23/branching-dialogue-r-i-p-death/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Presenting Branching Dialogue, a weekly, wordy and often worryingly pedantic discussion of video game genres, trends and err ... stuff I didn't think to put in this introductory line.
If there's one thing the year 2008 has proven adept at, it's polarizing players with titles that seem to generate more discussion than actual sales. Much like Assassin's Creed before it, Ubisoft's Prince of Persia has been viciously yanking people off fences, this time with simplified controls, Open-World Lite[TM] platforming and sassy, cel-shaded protagonists.

The game's difficulty (or supposed lack thereof) has also come under scrutiny, with some tough-guy gamers lamenting the Prince's newly found and quite convenient resistance to death. I don't wish to argue with the complaint ... but I do want to pluralize it. "This game is not difficult," and, "You can't die in this game," are two very different accusations, and one of them is more than a little unobservant of modern conventions.

I hate to break it to you guys, but death has been pushing up daisies for years.

Continue reading Branching Dialogue: R.I.P. Death

JoystiqBranching Dialogue: R.I.P. Death originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Dec 2008 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Branching-DialogueDeathJoystiqFeaturesJS-TwitterMicrosoftPCPrince-of-PersiaPrince-of-Persia-2008PS3UbisoftUbisoft-MontrealXbox-360Tue, 23 Dec 2008 20:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Telling stories: What's up with lame endings?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/23/telling-stories-whats-up-with-lame-endings/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/23/telling-stories-whats-up-with-lame-endings/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/23/telling-stories-whats-up-with-lame-endings/#commentsFiled under: ,


As games have evolved, so too has the role of storytelling in the titles we play. As we turn the corner on 2008, we asked multiple industry personalities across all walks of game development on titles such as Dragon Age: Origins, Bionic Commando and Guild Wars for their thoughts.

While narrative has taken on a larger role, time and again we end up being left unsatisfied in the final moments with endings that fail to wrap up stories in interesting or compelling ways. In our continuing week-long feature, we asked our diverse collection of industry personalities why so many endings in the games we play leave us cold.

Continue reading Telling stories: What's up with lame endings?

JoystiqTelling stories: What's up with lame endings? originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Dec 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bionic-commandobionic-commando-rearmedcity-of-heroesgalactic-civilizationsgalactic-civilizations-iigringuild-warsguild-wars-2joystiqfeaturesjs-twittermastiffmoonncsoftncsoft-norcalrenegade-kidresistance-retributionsonysony-bendsplatterhousestardocktelling-storiesTue, 23 Dec 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Telling stories: Balancing gameplay v. narrative]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/22/telling-stories-balancing-gameplay-v-narrative/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/22/telling-stories-balancing-gameplay-v-narrative/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/22/telling-stories-balancing-gameplay-v-narrative/#commentsFiled under: ,


As games have evolved, so too has the role of storytelling in the titles we play. As we turn the corner on 2008, we asked multiple industry personalities across all walks of game development on titles such as Dragon Age: Origins, Bionic Commando and Guild Wars for their thoughts.

How important are stories? How about endings? Over the next week this diverse group of personalities sounds off on these and other story-driven topics, starting today as we open up by asking whether or not narrative shares an equal burden as gameplay in carrying the video game experience.

Continue reading Telling stories: Balancing gameplay v. narrative

JoystiqTelling stories: Balancing gameplay v. narrative originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 22 Dec 2008 13:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bionic-commandobionic-commando-rearmedcity-of-heroesgalactic-civilizationsgalactic-civilizations-iigringuild-warsguild-wars-2joystiqfeaturesjs-twittermastiffmoonncsoftncsoft-norcalrenegade-kidresistance-retributionsonysony-bendsplatterhousestardocktelling-storiesMon, 22 Dec 2008 13:25:00 EST<![CDATA[The Best Thing You'll See Today: The Portal bar]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/22/the-best-thing-youll-see-today-the-portal-bar/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/22/the-best-thing-youll-see-today-the-portal-bar/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/22/the-best-thing-youll-see-today-the-portal-bar/#commentsFiled under:


Well this is just magical. After a Final Fantasy-themed night became a big hit, the IT University of Copenhagen decided to celebrate their weekly gathering at Denmark's Scrollbar with an all-Portal evening. That meant tons of themed shots (that's the "Teleportation" up above -- you're apparently supposed to jump from one to the other), plenty of Companion Cubes, and, of course, cake.

If you're curious as to where we're we're going to end up when we die, you can check out all the pictures from the event right here.

JoystiqThe Best Thing You'll See Today: The Portal bar originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 22 Dec 2008 10:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>drinkingjs-twitterportaltbtystvalveMon, 22 Dec 2008 10:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Street Fighter IV gets new US box art, updated collector's edition specs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/19/street-fighter-iv-gets-new-us-box-art-updated-collectors-editi/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/19/street-fighter-iv-gets-new-us-box-art-updated-collectors-editi/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/19/street-fighter-iv-gets-new-us-box-art-updated-collectors-editi/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Capcom has released the official rundown of what's in the US collector's editions of Street Fighter IV - and what (or rather who) is not on the game's cover anymore. "We had a total re-think on our SFIV packaging," Capcom's PR director, Chris Kramer, wrote on the Capcom-Unity blog. "As a result of [fan feedback], we have opted to drop the initial Chun-Li packfront in favor of Street Fighter IV art director Ikeno-san's amazing Ryu vs. Ken illustration."

What's in the box is not all that different from what GameStop listed 10 days ago. Priced at $79.99, both the Xbox 360 and PS3 versions come with the game, soundtrack CD, hint book, and either a C. Viper or Ryu figurine (360 and PS3, respectively). The final bit of bundled swag - a new 65-minute anime movie, The Ties That Bind - "sets up the story of SFIV by explaining events post-SFII." The Studio 4°C-produced film is on Blu-ray Disc for PS3 and a special game disc (not a standard DVD) for 360, which has allowed Capcom to encode it at 720p resolution.

Capcom says that the CEs also include "some secret additional downloadable content," which GameStop had previously listed as new costumes, but has since revised. Check out the high-res PS3 and 360 pack shots and CE photos in the gallery below.

JoystiqStreet Fighter IV gets new US box art, updated collector's edition specs originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Dec 2008 22:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomjs-twitterPS3sf4special-editionstreet-fighterstreet-fighter-ivXbox-360Fri, 19 Dec 2008 22:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Cellfactor: Psychokinetic Wars coming to PSN, XBLA in 2009]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/19/cellfactor-psychokinetic-wars-coming-to-psn-xbla-in-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/19/cellfactor-psychokinetic-wars-coming-to-psn-xbla-in-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/19/cellfactor-psychokinetic-wars-coming-to-psn-xbla-in-2009/#commentsFiled under: ,


Though video games continue to lose the ongoing war against ridiculous subtitles and unnecessary colon usage, Ubisoft is hoping that "Psychokinetic Wars" will sway the fight against boredom in favor of action gamers. Psychokinetic Wars, being the subtitle belonging to Cellfactor, denotes a "fast-paced first-person multiplayer shooter" coming to Xbox Live Arcade and PlayStation Network in early 2009.

Developed by Immersion Games and Timeline Interactive, the futuristic FPS gives players "their choice of gunfire and/or telekinetic superpowers," though we suspect "and" would be the wiser battle strategy. After all, why would you turn down the opportunity to "rip objects from the surrounding environment and hurl them at enemies?" Well, assuming you didn't already.

Psychokinetic Wars will offer 30 single-player "challenges," three controllable characters and four different multiplayer modes (Death Match, Capture the Flag, Team Death Match and Assault) in support of 16 players. Or, err, psychokinetic combatants.

Gallery: Cellfactor: Psychokinetic Wars (PSN, XBLA)

JoystiqCellfactor: Psychokinetic Wars coming to PSN, XBLA in 2009 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Dec 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CellfactorCellfactor-Psychokinetic-WarsFPSImmersion-GamesJS-TwitterPS3PSNPsychokinetic-WarsUbisoftXBLAXbox-360Fri, 19 Dec 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Complete: Street Fighter IV full character roster]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/19/complete-street-fighter-iv-full-character-roster/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/19/complete-street-fighter-iv-full-character-roster/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/19/complete-street-fighter-iv-full-character-roster/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click Rose to begin your tour of the cast of SFIV!
Capcom has today revealed the "long awaited, and not so secret, last character" in Street Fighter IV. We'll spare the drum roll and get right to her: Rose. But, well, you already knew that. Still, Capcom's announcement has sealed the list of 25 fighters. (Sorry to Retsi, Geki, Joe, Lee, T. Hawk, Dee Jay, all of SFIII, some of you Alpha dogs and cats, and any of the rest of yous we missed! Maybe next game, eh?)

Get familiar with the entire Street Fight IV gang right here:

Gallery: Street Fighter IV: Character Roster

AbelAkumaBalrogBlankaCammy

Continue reading Complete: Street Fighter IV full character roster

JoystiqComplete: Street Fighter IV full character roster originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Dec 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomjoystiqfeaturesjs-twitterPS3sfivstreet-fighterstreet-fighter-4street-fighter-ivstreet-fighter-iv-rosterXbox-360Fri, 19 Dec 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ubisoft bringing Broken Sword to Wii, DS March 2009]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/18/ubisoft-bringing-broken-sword-to-wii-ds-march-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/18/ubisoft-bringing-broken-sword-to-wii-ds-march-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/18/ubisoft-bringing-broken-sword-to-wii-ds-march-2009/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Who says adventure games are dead? Well, Sierra for one. LucasArts for another. But not Ubisoft, oh no, as the company just dropped a press release confirming plans to bring Broken Sword: Shadow of the Templars, the first in Charles Cecil's landmark adventure game series, to the Wii and DS in March 2009.

Broken Sword: Shadow of the Templars has been ported to numerous platforms since its original PC release in 1996, including the PlayStation and GBA. Ubisoft describes this latest version, however, as 'The Director's Cut,' promising a new narrative "interwoven with the first story," as well as new puzzles designed to take advantage of each platform's affinity for waggle and touching.

Even more interesting, the game's more than decade old graphics have also been retouched, including new facial animation by Watchmen artist Dave Gibbons. Consider us pointed, and our wallets collectively clicked.

JoystiqUbisoft bringing Broken Sword to Wii, DS March 2009 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 18 Dec 2008 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>broken-swordbroken-sword-shadow-of-the-templarsDSjs-twitterubisoftWiiThu, 18 Dec 2008 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Kojima calls Metal Gear Solid Touch a 'simple MGS' shooter]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/18/kojima-calls-metal-gear-solid-touch-a-simple-mgs-shooter/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/18/kojima-calls-metal-gear-solid-touch-a-simple-mgs-shooter/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/18/kojima-calls-metal-gear-solid-touch-a-simple-mgs-shooter/#commentsFiled under: ,


Both 1UP and IGN have poked and prodded new details out of Japanese mag Famitsu's recent Metal Gear Solid Touch reveal, lifting the touchable curtains somewhat off Konami's upcoming head scratcher. According to the article, the game will be based on MGS4, with Metal Gear mastermind Kojima describing the iPhone app as a "Simple MGS." Translation: It's a shooter.

In fact, Metal Gear's emphasis on stealth is being pocketed this time around in favor of something that is easier to pick up and play on the go, with much of the gameplay involving sliding and pinching the screen in typical iPhone fashion to move Snake's view and zoom in and out of targets. Additionally, shooting bad guys and exploding barrels is taken care of by tapping directly on the screen. We remain interested, albeit confused, about Snake's latest mission. But the weathered soldier isn't getting any younger, and with all of these fingers in the way, we wonder if he'll be able to see anything at all.

Read - Kojima Goes In-Depth on Metal Gear Solid Touch
Read - Metal Gear Solid Touch Detailed

JoystiqKojima calls Metal Gear Solid Touch a 'simple MGS' shooter originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 18 Dec 2008 14:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fingersHideo-Kojimaiphonejs-twitterkojima-productionskonamimetal-gear-solid-4Metal-Gear-Solid-4-Guns-of-the-Patriotsmetal-gear-solid-touchMobileThu, 18 Dec 2008 14:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Take-Two cements long-term agreement with Rockstar 'senior creative talent']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/17/take-two-cements-long-term-agreement-with-rockstar-senior-creat/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/17/take-two-cements-long-term-agreement-with-rockstar-senior-creat/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/17/take-two-cements-long-term-agreement-with-rockstar-senior-creat/#commentsFiled under:


The Houser brothers aren't going anywhere -- at least not anywhere that's out of the reach of Grand Theft Auto publisher Take-Two. The company has announced a new long-term employment agreement with "key members of the creative team" behind Grand Theft Auto IV, including Rockstar rockstars, Sam and Dan Houser. The initial term of the agreement runs out on January 31, 2012 -- and by then the world will be close to ending for everyone, not just Take-Two.

Also noted in the agreement is a new incentive compensation program for the Rockstar Games label, as well as Take-Two's intention to fund a new intellectual property "to be owned by a newly formed company controlled by key Rockstar Games team members." Whatever this mystery property entails, it will be published exclusively by Take-Two. Do we detect shades of Bungie and Microsoft?

JoystiqTake-Two cements long-term agreement with Rockstar 'senior creative talent' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Dec 2008 16:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BreakingNewsDan-HouserGrand-Theft-AutoGrand-Theft-Auto-IVGTA-IVJS-TwitterRockstarRockstar-GamesTake-TwoWed, 17 Dec 2008 16:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Batman: Arkham Asylum gets Hamill's Joker, Conroy's Batman]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/17/batman-arkham-asylum-gets-hamills-joker-conroys-batman/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/17/batman-arkham-asylum-gets-hamills-joker-conroys-batman/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/17/batman-arkham-asylum-gets-hamills-joker-conroys-batman/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Eidos and Warner Bros. have confirmed that Mark Hamill, the voice of The Joker in Batman: The Animated Series, will reprise his sadistically animated take on the Clown Prince of Crime in Batman: Arkham Asylum. Additionally, the Caped Crusader himself will be voiced by Kevin Conroy, recognized as the voice of Batman in numerous animated series and games.

While we remain largely undecided regarding Rocksteady Studios' "graphically distinct" take on Bruce Wayne's alter ego (spoiler! - Ed.), today's news brings us dangerously close to being pulled off the fence as we continue to wait for Batman: Arkham Asylum to ship next summer for the Xbox 360, PS3 and PC.

JoystiqBatman: Arkham Asylum gets Hamill's Joker, Conroy's Batman originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Dec 2008 14:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batmanbatman-arkham-asylumjs-twitterkevin-conroymark-hamillPCPS3rocksteady-studiosXbox-360Wed, 17 Dec 2008 14:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Four Konami games coming to iPhone, including Metal Gear, Silent Hill]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/17/four-konami-games-coming-to-iphone-including-metal-gear-silent/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/17/four-konami-games-coming-to-iphone-including-metal-gear-silent/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/17/four-konami-games-coming-to-iphone-including-metal-gear-silent/#commentsFiled under: , ,


And Dance Dance Revolution, if you can believe it. Konami has announced the impending arrival of four downloadable iPhone games, with all but one scheduled to arrive "from late December." The genres covered are "Music," "Action," "3D Shooting" and the slightly provocative "Touch Shooting." As for the corresponding titles:
  • Dance Dance Revolution S Lite, "a music game where you tap the arrow icons that appear at the bottom of the screen in time with music."
  • Silent Hill: The Escape, "a first-person 3D shooting game that lets players utilize the control features only found on the iPhone and iPod touch ..."
  • Frogger, "a simple game" which probably doesn't require any further explanation.
  • Metal Gear Solid Touch, "an original game that brings to life the world and characters" of MGS4. Eight "touch shooting" levels will be available in the initial release, with more to follow.
MGST is currently slated for a Spring 2009 release. All the games are coming to North America, Japan and Europe, with the exception of Dance Dance Revolution, which is apparently too hip for the electronic rectangles in Europe.

JoystiqFour Konami games coming to iPhone, including Metal Gear, Silent Hill originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Dec 2008 04:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BreakingNewsDance-Dance-Revolution-S-LiteFroggeriPhoneJS-TwitterKonami-TouchMetal-Gear-Solid-TouchMobileSilent-Hill-The-EscapeWed, 17 Dec 2008 04:15:00 EST<![CDATA[The Killzone 2 FAQ]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/16/the-killzone-2-faq/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/16/the-killzone-2-faq/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/16/the-killzone-2-faq/#commentsFiled under:


Killzone 2 is a remarkably divisive game, as noted in the fierce comments to our last hands-on post. Killzone 2 is one of the few games that can get overzealous PS3 fans, insecure 360 fanboys, and downright-confused Wii owners in one place and start a verbal riot. With so much fervor surrounding the title, we decided to simply break down the game and answer some of your more burning questions.

When is it coming out?
Killzone 2 will be available in North America on February 27, 2009. Expect a "similar timeframe" for European countries.

What are the controls like?
The controls are much slower than most other FPS games on the market. Instead of running and gunning, you'll be taking cover and aiming down your sights. When behind a wall or object, you'll have to hold the cover button. Releasing it will allow you to peek out and fire your gun. It takes some time to get used to fully first person cover, but it's meant to keep the experience immersive. If you play like the guys at G4, you will die. A lot. (According to G4, that was a developer playing. Whoops!)

Gallery: Killzone 2

Continue reading The Killzone 2 FAQ

JoystiqThe Killzone 2 FAQ originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 16 Dec 2008 14:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>faqjoystiqfeaturesjs-twitterkillzonekillzone-2PS3Tue, 16 Dec 2008 14:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Club Nintendo back up, accepting NA members [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/15/club-nintendo-briefly-up-accepting-na-members-now-down/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/15/club-nintendo-briefly-up-accepting-na-members-now-down/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/15/club-nintendo-briefly-up-accepting-na-members-now-down/#commentsFiled under: , ,


After years of chanting "Let us in, let us in!," the doors to Club Nintendo have finally been opened to those living in North America. The service, which was announced this summer, takes the place of NOA's previous My Nintendo site. Nice to join you, Japan and Europe.

Already have your Nintendo gear and games registered on My Nintendo? Not to worry. Logging into the Club Nintendo site automagically converts your old account and - most importantly - makes sure Club Nintendo knows about all the stuff you've bought. So you can, y'know, start saving up for exclusive merchandise and other rewards, including the (now official) US version of Game & Watch Collection.

There's just one problem - after seeing the site with our very own eyes (!) it ... disappeared, and was replaced with placeholder art assuring us that Club Nintendo was "Coming Soon!" Lucky for us then that one NeoGAF user thought to grab a screenshot (seen above). Don't worry, you take the night off. We've got our clicking finger on the Reload button and we'll let you know when everything's back up. Now go have a drink, you look tired.

[Update: It seems - seems - that Club Nintendo is now live for good and all. Yep, it's up.]

[Thanks, Fernando]

JoystiqClub Nintendo back up, accepting NA members [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 15 Dec 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingnewsclub-nintendoDSjs-twittermy-nintendorewardsWiiMon, 15 Dec 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[How to fix the Video Game Awards]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/15/how-to-fix-the-video-game-awards/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/15/how-to-fix-the-video-game-awards/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/15/how-to-fix-the-video-game-awards/#commentsFiled under: ,


In a lot of ways, last night's Video Game Awards were the most promising and yet, the most frustrating. It was a far cry from 2007's awards, a two-hour long cringe made bearable only by the occasional exclusive trailer. This year, there was real entertainment to be had, as well as a better sense than ever before of how to appeal to gamers. There were even some good gags. But that made the areas where the show stumbled, both big and small, even harder to swallow.

Fear not, the internet, we at Joystiq are ready to spring to the rescue and humbly provide our suggestions to help the VGAs reach their full potential (without the use of topless girls). Which brings us to tip number one:

Continue reading How to fix the Video Game Awards

JoystiqHow to fix the Video Game Awards originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 15 Dec 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>joystiqfeaturesjs-twitterspike-vga-2008Mon, 15 Dec 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Space devs cooking up Dante's Inferno]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/15/dead-space-devs-cooking-up-dantes-inferno/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/15/dead-space-devs-cooking-up-dantes-inferno/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/15/dead-space-devs-cooking-up-dantes-inferno/#commentsFiled under:


Electronic Arts may be planning fewer titles next year, but that won't stop EA Redwood Shores from sending players straight to hell. The Dead Space developers have officially announced their next hellish project, dubbed Dante's Inferno.

Little is known about the upcoming third-person action title, other than it will be based upon Dante Alighieri's The Divine Comedy. Jonathan Knight, executive producer on Dante's Inferno, simply notes that "the time is right" to adapt the 14th Century literary work into a game, though with Universal tapped to twist the game into a movie, clearly the time is also right to make lots of money. A teaser site and embedded video have also been released, and after playing through Dead Space it seems that we might soon abandon all hope of sleeping through the night.

JoystiqDead Space devs cooking up Dante's Inferno originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 15 Dec 2008 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dantes-infernodead-spaceeaea-redwood-shoreselectronic-artsjs-twitterMon, 15 Dec 2008 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Grand Theft Auto IV crowned Game of the Year at Spike VGAs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/14/grand-theft-auto-iv-crowned-spike-vgas-game-of-the-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/14/grand-theft-auto-iv-crowned-spike-vgas-game-of-the-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/14/grand-theft-auto-iv-crowned-spike-vgas-game-of-the-year/#commentsFiled under: ,

It seems like Spike Video Game Award judges and Time magazine now have something in common. The Spike VGA Game of the Year was just announced and it was ... wait for it ... drumroll please ... more drumroll, please ... that's better ... Grand Theft Auto IV. The announcement was preceded by the latest Brutal Legend trailer, so we almost missed it basking in the awesomeness of Tim freaking Schafer. Congratulations to Rockstar.

Curious which games won - and, by proxy, which ones lost - in the rest of the categories? Find the full list of winners after the break.

Continue reading Grand Theft Auto IV crowned Game of the Year at Spike VGAs

JoystiqGrand Theft Auto IV crowned Game of the Year at Spike VGAs originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 14 Dec 2008 22:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best-of-2008breakingnewsgrand-theft-auto-ivgtaivjs-twitterPS3spike-vga-2008Xbox-360Sun, 14 Dec 2008 22:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Liveblogging the 2008 Video Game Awards]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/14/liveblogging-the-2008-video-game-awards/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/14/liveblogging-the-2008-video-game-awards/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/14/liveblogging-the-2008-video-game-awards/#commentsFiled under: ,


Forget reading! Here's our video stream.

We literally don't know what channel Spike is.

It's not the most noble start to our annual VGA liveblog, but it's the best we've got. We hope you'll hang in there with us as we detail all the ... well, whatever it is. Our man Kevin Kelly is inside, and he'll be giving us the dog's eye view.

And away we go!

Continue reading Liveblogging the 2008 Video Game Awards

JoystiqLiveblogging the 2008 Video Game Awards originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 14 Dec 2008 21:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>joystiqfeaturesjs-twitterliveblogspike-vga-2008Sun, 14 Dec 2008 21:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Pearl Jam's 'Ten' album coming to Rock Band in March]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/14/pearl-jams-ten-album-coming-to-rock-band-in-march/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/14/pearl-jams-ten-album-coming-to-rock-band-in-march/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/14/pearl-jams-ten-album-coming-to-rock-band-in-march/#commentsFiled under: , ,

An "exclusive" from Geoff Keighley, who likely read that line from a teleprompter while presenting live from the Spike VGAs: Pearl Jam's "Ten" album is coming as a Rock Band downloadable album in March. That should be just enough time for you to find the appropriate amount of flannel to wear while you play.

JoystiqPearl Jam's 'Ten' album coming to Rock Band in March originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 14 Dec 2008 21:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingnewsdlcjs-twitterpearl-jamPS3rock-bandrock-band-2rock-band-dlcspike-vga-2008Xbox-360Sun, 14 Dec 2008 21:38:00 EST