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[Australian government begins the process of games reform with a Discussion Paper]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/01/australian-government-begins-the-process-of-games-reform-with-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/01/australian-government-begins-the-process-of-games-reform-with-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/01/australian-government-begins-the-process-of-games-reform-with-a/#comments The Australian Law Reform Commission has been listening, and after hours of bureaucratic thought, research, filing papers, losing papers, rewriting those papers, finding the originals and sobbing quietly at their cubicles, the Australian government has proposed a Discussion Paper to revamp media classification ratings, including those for video games. The paper addresses issues of hypocrisy in its games-rating system, citing how long it took for the R18+ rating to be implemented, and how its absence was restrictive to adults in the country:

"Major inconsistencies exist in the application of classification guidelines across media platforms. The major anomaly has been in the treatment of computer games as compared to films and publications, with the absence of an R 18+ classification for computer games," the paper reads.

"This decision, which has only recently been reversed, can be seen as overly restricting the rights of adults to access content on a particular media platform, and as marking a reversion to earlier censorship-based understandings of the role of government."

Continue reading Australian government begins the process of games reform with a Discussion Paper

JoystiqAustralian government begins the process of games reform with a Discussion Paper originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 01 Oct 2011 05:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsaustraliaAustralian-Law-Reform-CommissiondsL4D2Left-4-Dead-2macmicrosoftnintendopcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3pspsonyvitawiixboxSat, 01 Oct 2011 05:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Left 4 Dead's Death Toll in beta, now playable in Left 4 Dead 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/left-4-deads-death-toll-in-beta-now-playable-in-left-4-dead-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/left-4-deads-death-toll-in-beta-now-playable-in-left-4-dead-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/left-4-deads-death-toll-in-beta-now-playable-in-left-4-dead-2/#comments Valve's unleashed the Death Toll campaign from the original Left 4 Dead on the PC-playing Left 4 Dead 2 crowd today, albeit with some minor tweaks which Valve is being mum about. They want us all to go in with "fresh eyes" they say, so we'll see how that goes. Any feedback you have, you can drop it in the Steam forums. (Or you could leave a comment in this very post!)

Also, Valve's got an update on the launch window of the entire Cold Stream DLC release, of which Death Toll is a part of: It's coming around Halloween. Previously the goal was late summer, but with all of the testing and rigmarole that goes into tuning a game, Valve's gotten a little behind schedule. It's tough to complain, considering how very, very free all this stuff is.

JoystiqLeft 4 Dead's Death Toll in beta, now playable in Left 4 Dead 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Sep 2011 22:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cold-streamdeath-tolldlcL4D2left-4-deadLeft-4-Dead-2pcsteamvalveFri, 16 Sep 2011 22:50:00 EST<![CDATA[L4D2 to get Blood Harvest if 60,000 players unlock Achievement]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/05/l4d2-to-get-blood-harvest-if-60-000-players-unlock-achievement/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/05/l4d2-to-get-blood-harvest-if-60-000-players-unlock-achievement/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/05/l4d2-to-get-blood-harvest-if-60-000-players-unlock-achievement/#comments Blood Harvest posterThe slow and steady march (undead, you might say) to release all of Left 4 Dead 1's maps into Left 4 Dead 2 continues, with Valve offering fans a chance to unlock the beta version of Blood Harvest early. So, how does it work? Simple: To unlock Blood Harvest, PC players simply have to help test a new version of Dead Air.

Specifically, players will be awarded an Achievement for completing an entire Versus game in Dead Air. Once sixty-thousand (60,000) players unlock the Achievement, Valve will unlock Blood Harvest on the following weekday. Be warned though, it must be a complete game, as Valve notes "you can't rage quit and you need to work together."

Remember that the next time you willingly allow a Jockey to ride off on your friend.

JoystiqL4D2 to get Blood Harvest if 60,000 players unlock Achievement originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 05 Aug 2011 20:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blood-harvestdlcL4D2left-4-deadLeft-4-Dead-2pcvalveFri, 05 Aug 2011 20:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Air beta available in Left 4 Dead 2 on Steam today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/22/dead-air-beta-available-in-left-4-dead-2-on-steam-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/22/dead-air-beta-available-in-left-4-dead-2-on-steam-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/22/dead-air-beta-available-in-left-4-dead-2-on-steam-today/#comments As Valve promised, those who partake in zombie slaughter wholesale on Steam in Left 4 Dead 2 may now access an updated version of the original Left 4 Dead campaign, Dead Air. Beta access to Dead Air was promised as an incentive to the community for playing through the Cold Stream campaign (also in beta) and unlocking the subsequent completion achievement, Stream Crosser.

In a post on the Left 4 Dead blog, Valve reveals that the fourth and fifth maps in the Dead Air campaign have been changed a bit and that the developer "tried something new" when it came to the Scavenge map. The full Cold Stream DLC is currently slated to launch this summer on both Xbox 360 and PC.

JoystiqDead Air beta available in Left 4 Dead 2 on Steam today originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Jul 2011 21:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betadead-airL4D2Left-4-Dead-2pcsteamFri, 22 Jul 2011 21:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Left 4 Dead 2's 'Dead Air' DLC coming on or before July 22]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/11/left-4-dead-2s-dead-air-dlc-coming-on-or-before-july-22/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/11/left-4-dead-2s-dead-air-dlc-coming-on-or-before-july-22/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/11/left-4-dead-2s-dead-air-dlc-coming-on-or-before-july-22/#comments You did it! You achieved the goal of playing a ton of Left 4 Dead 2, in sufficient numbers to unlock more Left 4 Dead 2. Valve challenged the community to get the "Stream Crosser" achievement 20,000 times by completing the Cold Stream campaign, and after 24 hours that achievement had been achieved 60,774 times.

As a result, Valve is releasing the L4D2 version of the L4D "Dead Air" DLC early, as promised. The initial announcement said July 22 -- now Valve is saying July 22 at the latest and intends to release the content as soon as it's finished.

JoystiqLeft 4 Dead 2's 'Dead Air' DLC coming on or before July 22 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Jul 2011 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cold-streamdead-airdlcL4D2Left-4-Dead-2microsoftpcvalvexboxMon, 11 Jul 2011 11:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Valve will release Dead Air early ... if 20K people unlock this Left 4 Dead 2 achievement]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/valve-will-release-dead-air-early-if-20k-people-unlock-this/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/valve-will-release-dead-air-early-if-20k-people-unlock-this/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/valve-will-release-dead-air-early-if-20k-people-unlock-this/#comments Valve's revealed an incentive for Left 4 Dead 2 players: if 20,000 of you unlock the Stream Crosser achievement on Steam (finish the Cold Stream campaign on any difficulty level) this weekend, it will release the Dead Air campaign from the first Left 4 Dead early, on July 22. Sorry, no word on remaining L4D campaigns Death Toll and Blood Harvest -- they're still slated to be included in the final release of Cold Stream, which is currently in beta.

Of course, because Valve is a company full of diabolical geniuses, guess what's on sale right now? Left 4 Dead 2 is 75% off today only, bringing it down to $4.99.

JoystiqValve will release Dead Air early ... if 20K people unlock this Left 4 Dead 2 achievement originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jul 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cold-streamL4D2Left-4-Dead-2pcsteamstream-crosservalveWed, 06 Jul 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Half-Life 2's Gnome Chompski gets his own (fake) game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/30/half-life-2s-gnome-chompski-gets-his-own-fake-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/30/half-life-2s-gnome-chompski-gets-his-own-fake-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/30/half-life-2s-gnome-chompski-gets-his-own-fake-game/#comments Little did you know that the diminuitive, statuesque grandpa you were tasked with lugging around in Half-Life 2: Episode Two and Left 4 Dead 2 was actually a stationary action hero. Check out FineLeatherJackets' trailer for Gnome Chompski's (totally not real) video game posted after the break.

Continue reading Half-Life 2's Gnome Chompski gets his own (fake) game

JoystiqHalf-Life 2's Gnome Chompski gets his own (fake) game originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 Mar 2011 10:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gnome-chompskiL4D2Left-4-Dead-2microsoftpcplaystationps3valvexboxWed, 30 Mar 2011 10:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Beta over here! L4D2 'Cold Stream' DLC now up for testing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/23/beta-over-here-l4d2-cold-stream-dlc-now-up-for-testing/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/23/beta-over-here-l4d2-cold-stream-dlc-now-up-for-testing/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/23/beta-over-here-l4d2-cold-stream-dlc-now-up-for-testing/#comments Hey, remember when Valve announced that the new Cold Stream DLC for Left 4 Dead 2 would enter beta testing within the "next few weeks?" Guess what? It's been a few weeks! The DLC, created by modder Matthew Lourdelet, is now available for beta testing in both the PC and Mac versions of Left 4 Dead 2.

Valve warns that the campaign does have bugs -- it's a beta test, after all -- and asks players to report them via the in-game bug reporter. The company also invites feedback and suggestions -- particularly regarding the finale -- in the Cold Stream forums.

[Image: Bug submitted by zapwizard]

JoystiqBeta over here! L4D2 'Cold Stream' DLC now up for testing originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Mar 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cold-streamDLCL4D2Left-4-Dead-2macMatthew-LourdeletmicrosoftpcvalvexboxWed, 23 Mar 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Left 4 Dead 2's latest mutation has a Special Delivery for the survivors]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/18/left-4-dead-2s-latest-mutation-has-a-special-delivery-for-the-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/18/left-4-dead-2s-latest-mutation-has-a-special-delivery-for-the-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/18/left-4-dead-2s-latest-mutation-has-a-special-delivery-for-the-s/#comments These guys just can't catch a break, can they? As if the zombie apocalypse wasn't enough for the survivors to deal with, Left 4 Dead 2's latest mutation, Special Delivery, removes spawn timers for special infected and raises their in-game cap to 10.

Can you imagine it? The safe house is in sight; you're almost there and the effects of those hastily-consumed pain pills are quickly fading. Then you see them: two boomers, two jockeys, a spitter, a smoker and four tanks. Okay, maybe our version of the mutation sounds a bit extreme, but you get the idea.

JoystiqLeft 4 Dead 2's latest mutation has a Special Delivery for the survivors originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 18 Dec 2010 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>L4D2Left-4-Dead-2microsoftmutationpcsteamvalvexboxSat, 18 Dec 2010 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Left 4 Dead 2's latest mutation invites the survivors to a Hunter Party]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/16/left-4-dead-2s-latest-mutation-invites-the-survivors-to-a-hunte/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/16/left-4-dead-2s-latest-mutation-invites-the-survivors-to-a-hunte/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/16/left-4-dead-2s-latest-mutation-invites-the-survivors-to-a-hunte/#commentsFiled under: , ,

It's Friday, which means it's Pizza Night in America. Sure, a slice of 'za is a great way to cap off the week, but some people prefer their unwinding to be a bit more slaughterful. So we'd like to point out the latest Left 4 Dead 2 mutation: Hunting Party.

This mutation simplifies the horde by turning all of the Special Infected into Hunters. No Boomers, no Smokers, no Jockeys, just the sheer agony of listening to screeching, nimble Hunters like so many dozens of nails scratching against so many dozens of chalkboards. And the tearing -- oh, why all of the tearing?

JoystiqLeft 4 Dead 2's latest mutation invites the survivors to a Hunter Party originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 16 Oct 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>L4D2Left-4-Dead-2microsoftmutationpcsteamvalvevalve-softwarexboxSat, 16 Oct 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Left 4 Dead 1 and 2 on sale for $10.19 on Steam for a limited time]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/05/left-4-dead-1-and-2-on-sale-for-10-19-on-steam-for-a-limited-ti/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/05/left-4-dead-1-and-2-on-sale-for-10-19-on-steam-for-a-limited-ti/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/05/left-4-dead-1-and-2-on-sale-for-10-19-on-steam-for-a-limited-ti/#comments Valve has extended a whole mess of offers for Left 4 Dead and its sequel on its Steam platform in honor of the release of "The Sacrifice" -- both titles (the latter of which just launched on Mac) are available for $6.79 each, or $10.19 together for "a limited time."

Continue reading Left 4 Dead 1 and 2 on sale for $10.19 on Steam for a limited time

JoystiqLeft 4 Dead 1 and 2 on sale for $10.19 on Steam for a limited time originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Oct 2010 16:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>L4D2left-4-deadLeft-4-Dead-2macpcsteamthe-sacrificevalveTue, 05 Oct 2010 16:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Left 4 Dead 2 attacks Mac on Tuesday, Oct. 5]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/04/left-4-dead-2-attacks-mac-on-tuesday-oct-5/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/04/left-4-dead-2-attacks-mac-on-tuesday-oct-5/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/04/left-4-dead-2-attacks-mac-on-tuesday-oct-5/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Tucked neatly below some official details regarding Left 4 Dead's "The Sacrifice" DLC lies an announcement: Left 4 Dead 2 will be available on Mac starting Tuesday, October 5. As per usual, Mac users who previously purchased Left 4 Dead 2 on Steam for PC will automatically receive access to the game, along with free downloads of "The Passing," "The Sacrifice" and "No Mercy" add-ons.

In the same note, Valve also apologizes to Left 4 Dead 1 owners -- since the sequel is making it onto Mac before the original. The company states it's "running a little late" and that it hopes to "have it out in time to celebrate Halloween." If you previously purchased L4D on Steam for PC, you'll have access to everything once the Mac version arrives.

Gallery: Left 4 Dead ("The Sacrifice" DLC)


[Thanks, Ben]

JoystiqLeft 4 Dead 2 attacks Mac on Tuesday, Oct. 5 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Oct 2010 10:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>L4D2Left-4-Dead-2macrelease-datesteamValveMon, 04 Oct 2010 10:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Give up a few minutes for Left 4 Dead's 'The Sacrifice' trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/01/give-up-a-few-minutes-for-left-4-dead-the-sacrifice-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/01/give-up-a-few-minutes-for-left-4-dead-the-sacrifice-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/01/give-up-a-few-minutes-for-left-4-dead-the-sacrifice-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , ,

"The Sacrifice" DLC for Left 4 Dead and Left 4 Dead 2 arrives October 5 on Xbox 360 and PC. The expansion will add a new campaign to both games, the L4D1 "No Mercy" game type to L4D2 and a new mechanic in which players can choose to sacrifice themselves for the team. While free for PC players, the add-on will cost 560 Microsoft Points ($7) on Xbox.

To help you avoid confusing this with "My Sacrifice," the 2001 hit single by Creed, we've included some visual aids in the form of a trailer after the break and screens in the gallery below.

Gallery: Left 4 Dead ("The Sacrifice" DLC)

Continue reading Give up a few minutes for Left 4 Dead's 'The Sacrifice' trailer

JoystiqGive up a few minutes for Left 4 Dead's 'The Sacrifice' trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 12:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcL4D2left-4-deadLeft-4-Dead-2microsoftpcthe-sacrificexboxFri, 01 Oct 2010 12:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Next Left 4 Dead 2 mutation reintroduces competitive survival]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/26/next-left-4-dead-2-mutation-introduces-competitive-surviving/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/26/next-left-4-dead-2-mutation-introduces-competitive-surviving/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/26/next-left-4-dead-2-mutation-introduces-competitive-surviving/#commentsFiled under: , ,

This week's Left 4 Dead 2 mutation introduces a game mode so clever, we're surprised Valve hadn't thought of it yet -- or have they? Yes, players will temporarily be able to re-experience the magic of Survival Versus, in which one team of four survivors lasts as long as it can on a chosen Survival map, and then the next team tries to beat their time. The competing teams go back and forth in this manner until one team fails to surpass the other's lifespan.

It sounds like a pretty hectic addition to an already hectic game type. Give it a try this week only if you think you can handle all the hect ... hecticnicity?

JoystiqNext Left 4 Dead 2 mutation reintroduces competitive survival originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 26 Sep 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>L4D2Left-4-Dead-2microsoftmutationpcsurvivalvalvexboxSun, 26 Sep 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Parts 1 and 2 of Left 4 Dead 'The Sacrifice' comic now online]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/22/parts-1-and-2-of-left-4-dead-the-sacrifice-comic-now-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/22/parts-1-and-2-of-left-4-dead-the-sacrifice-comic-now-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/22/parts-1-and-2-of-left-4-dead-the-sacrifice-comic-now-online/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Honestly, we would never have thought that [redacted] would be the character to bite the dust in "The Passing," but there it is. Sure, we could've pictured [redacted] dying, or [redacted] -- heck, even [redacted] -- but [redacted]? Life's a trip, qué no?

Thing is, we never figured out how that particular survivor perished -- not until now. The first two parts of Valve's four-part, 150-page digital comic primer for "The Sacrifice," the upcoming DLC for Left 4 Dead and Left 4 Dead 2, is now online. Give both issues a read by heading over to the Left 4 Dead Blog.

JoystiqParts 1 and 2 of Left 4 Dead 'The Sacrifice' comic now online originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Sep 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comicfpsL4D2Left-4-Dead-2microsoftpcthe-passingthe-sacrificevalvevalve-softwarexboxWed, 22 Sep 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Left 4 Dead 2's next mutation suffers a Healthpackalypse]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/18/left-4-dead-2s-next-mutation-suffers-a-healthpackalypse/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/18/left-4-dead-2s-next-mutation-suffers-a-healthpackalypse/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/18/left-4-dead-2s-next-mutation-suffers-a-healthpackalypse/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The one thing saving Left 4 Dead 2 from being the world's most comprehensive zombie apocalypse survival sim is its liberal use of pain meds and "health packs." In the real world, these things don't have the immediate recuperative effects they do in the video games. If you want a taste of how it'll truly be, you should probably check out this week's mutation: Healthpackalypse.

In this custom Versus play mode on both the PC and Xbox 360, the survivors get no health packs whatsoever. If you're on the Infected side, laugh maniacally as the humans try to make it through without the use of first aid. If you're on the survivor side, well -- better luck next time! It's called "the apocalypse" for a reason, muchachos.

JoystiqLeft 4 Dead 2's next mutation suffers a Healthpackalypse originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 18 Sep 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaL4D2Left-4-Dead-2microsoftmutationpcvalvexboxSat, 18 Sep 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Left 4 Dead 2 fan campaign drops the survivors in City 17]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/left-4-dead-2-fan-campaign-drops-the-survivors-in-city-17/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/left-4-dead-2-fan-campaign-drops-the-survivors-in-city-17/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/left-4-dead-2-fan-campaign-drops-the-survivors-in-city-17/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Valve's latest featured fan campaign for the PC version of Left 4 Dead 2 should be instantly familiar to anyone who's enjoyed the developer's seminal Half-Life series. The five-chapter campaign is set on the streets of Half-Life 2's police-state metropolis, City 17, where the oppressed citizens have been replaced by zombies, and the totalitarian Combine have been replaced by zombies, and ... yeah, just about everyone's been replaced by zombies there.

As with all its featured community levels, Valve's temporarily hosting servers running the City 17 campaign. If you feel up for a romp through your ol' crowbaring grounds, you should take advantage of this delightful opportunity.

JoystiqLeft 4 Dead 2 fan campaign drops the survivors in City 17 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Sep 2010 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>campaigncity-17fanmadehalf-life-2L4D2Left-4-Dead-2modpcvalveThu, 16 Sep 2010 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Left 4 Dead 2 mutation plays Follow the Liter this week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/12/left-4-dead-2-mutation-plays-follow-the-liter-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/12/left-4-dead-2-mutation-plays-follow-the-liter-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/12/left-4-dead-2-mutation-plays-follow-the-liter-this-week/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The Left 4 Dead blog has revealed this week's mutation of choice, and it's another round of Follow the Liter, in which only one character can carry a gas tank at the time, and they always spawn together (meaning that Infected know where the survivors are going to be). Should be a grindfest, but Valve thinks you'll like it -- they're bringing some old modes like this back to see if they can "take" a second time around.

And just for kicks, you Left 4 Dead fans can head past the break for a (NSFW due to language) fanmade mashup between Pixar's Toy Story (the original one!) and your favorite zombie headshot game. We won't ruin the surprise, but after what happens below, Woody's going to need some pills here.

Continue reading Left 4 Dead 2 mutation plays Follow the Liter this week

JoystiqLeft 4 Dead 2 mutation plays Follow the Liter this week originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 12 Sep 2010 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>L4D2Left-4-Dead-2microsoftmutationpcvalveweeklyxboxSun, 12 Sep 2010 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Make a music video for Left 4 Dead's Midnight Riders]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/03/make-a-music-video-for-left-4-deads-midnight-riders/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/03/make-a-music-video-for-left-4-deads-midnight-riders/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/03/make-a-music-video-for-left-4-deads-midnight-riders/#commentsFiled under: , ,

If you found yourself particularly inspired by the quartet of southern rock troubadours prominently featured in Left 4 Dead 2's "Dark Carnival" campaign, you can now stretch your creative muscles to give one of the fictional band's hit songs some visual flair. Valve recently announced a contest to create the best music video for the Riders' chart topper "Save Me Some Sugar (This Won't Take Long)," which will make its debut in the upcoming "The Sacrifice" DLC campaign. The winner of the contest will receive a Valve "gift pack" and a guitar signed by all four members of the band.

The manner in which you create this video is entirely up to you -- will it be live action, in-game footage or a hybrid of both? Regardless of what you go with, we hope you first seek out some thematically appropriate inspiration.

JoystiqMake a music video for Left 4 Dead's Midnight Riders originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contestL4D2Left-4-Dead-2microsoftmidnight-ridersmusic-videopcvalvexboxFri, 03 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[L4D2's next Mutations: Gib Fest on PC; Chainsaw Massacre on 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/28/l4d2s-next-mutations-gib-fest-on-pc-chainsaw-massacre-on-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/28/l4d2s-next-mutations-gib-fest-on-pc-chainsaw-massacre-on-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/28/l4d2s-next-mutations-gib-fest-on-pc-chainsaw-massacre-on-360/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Valve has announced the latest Mutations for Left 4 Dead 2 and it looks like the Survivors will have a leg up on the undead hordes. It's good to know that even in the apocalypse, humans can sometimes catch a break.

In the PC version, players can check out Gib Fest, where all survivors are packing M60s with unlimited ammunition. Xbox 360 players will have to get a bit more up-close-and-personal in Chainsaw Massacre -- all survivors will have access to nothing but Chainsaws. Who wants zombie kebab?

JoystiqL4D2's next Mutations: Gib Fest on PC; Chainsaw Massacre on 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 28 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chainsaw-massacreeagib-festL4D2Left-4-Dead-2microsoftmutationpcvalvevalve-softwarexboxSat, 28 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Valve reveals 'The Sacrifice' DLC for L4D1 and 2, digital comic]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/22/valve-reveals-the-sacrifice-dlc-for-l4d1-and-2-digital-comic/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/22/valve-reveals-the-sacrifice-dlc-for-l4d1-and-2-digital-comic/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/22/valve-reveals-the-sacrifice-dlc-for-l4d1-and-2-digital-comic/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Both Left 4 Dead titles will be getting a new DLC pack -- titled "The Sacrifice" -- in the future. Valve's Chet Faliszek announced as much on the latest episode of GameTrailers TV, detailing the DLC's story as an explanation of how the first L4D crew lost a member (during "The Passing") and saying that the content will work across both games. Owners of Left 4 Dead 2 will be able to play as the first game's fearsome foursome and even be able to choose which member of that crew will end up having his or her brains eaten by the horde.

Faliszek also noted that the content will be free -- like usual -- for Steam users, and the series will be arriving on Steam for Mac as well. If that wasn't enough, L4D1's "No Mercy" campaign has been updated for the sequel and will be included with "The Sacrifice" when it ships. Though players will be able to choose which crew member passes in "The Sacrifice," a 150-page, four part digital comic details events leading up to the new DLC will have a more definitive finale which will effect the future content for the series (we can't be more specific without spoiling "The Passing"). Faliszek didn't give a price or a release window on the show, but he did admit that this "is not the end, we're gonna continue going" with future content for the series.

Update: According to an interview with PC Gamer (via Shacknews), it seems "The Sacrifice" will be available (at least on PC) as of October 5 for free, though it will cost 560 MS Points ($7) on Xbox 360. We've reached out to Valve for clarification on the release date for 360 and Mac.

JoystiqValve reveals 'The Sacrifice' DLC for L4D1 and 2, digital comic originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 22 Aug 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chet-faliszekdigital-comicdigital-distributiondlcL4D2Left-4-Dead-2macmicrosoftpcrelease-datesteamthe-sacrificevalvevalve-softwarexboxSun, 22 Aug 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Left 4 Dead 2 mutates again, DLC teased]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/13/left-4-dead-2-mutates-again-dlc-teased/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/13/left-4-dead-2-mutates-again-dlc-teased/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/13/left-4-dead-2-mutates-again-dlc-teased/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Thanks to Left 4 Dead 2, Friday has become some kind of weekly masochistic holiday. This week proves no different, as the latest mutation, Iron Man, pits the survivors against the Infected with "no respawns, no restarts, no ammo, all tension." In other words, you get the ammo you start with, no one respawns and, should your whole crew bite the dust (or be bitten by dusty zombies), you'll have to start the entire campaign over again. Ouch.

In other news, the Left 4 Dead Blog also dropped some hints about upcoming DLC. Those who finished "The Passing" DLC will know that someone from the original Left 4 Dead heads off for the great Safe House in the sky (don't hit the source link if you'd like this to remain unspoiled). According to the blog, a forthcoming comic and DLC will explain exactly how the survivor kicked the bucket. We're no psychics, but we're guessing it was zombies.

JoystiqLeft 4 Dead 2 mutates again, DLC teased originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Aug 2010 20:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>L4D2Left-4-Dead-2microsoftpcValvexboxFri, 13 Aug 2010 20:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Valve breaks down Left 4 Dead 2 mode stats, 'Gib Fest' is latest mutation]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/07/valve-breaks-down-left-4-dead-2-mode-stats-gib-fest-is-latest/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/07/valve-breaks-down-left-4-dead-2-mode-stats-gib-fest-is-latest/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/07/valve-breaks-down-left-4-dead-2-mode-stats-gib-fest-is-latest/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Valve has posted some interesting stats for Left 4 Dead 2's mutation modes. The team has been watching you closely as you work your way through the zombie hordes, and it turns out you like realism and gore in your L4D games: Realism Versus and Chainsaw Massacre have been the two most popular mutations by far, with Realism Versus (which was later turned into a permanent mode) grabbing 41 percent of the player base during its featured week and 22 percent of the playing time. The Chainsaw mode was the "most tried" of the mutations, with 52 percent of the player base revving it up, and 14 percent of player minutes spent playing it.

Outside of mutations, versus and the co-op campaign actually both nab about 40 percent of players every day. And while Valve doesn't mention any of the least-played mutations, it does give notice to the Infected-doubling Hard Eight mutation, which was only tried by 26 percent of players but still grabbed over 10 percent of that week's playing time. This week, it's a "Gib Fest," with everyone on the team getting M60s and unlimited ammo. That sounds like a hunting accident just waiting to happen.

JoystiqValve breaks down Left 4 Dead 2 mode stats, 'Gib Fest' is latest mutation originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 07 Aug 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chainsaw-massacregib-festL4D2Left-4-Dead-2microsoftmutationmutationspcrealism-versusvalvevalve-softwarexboxzombiesSat, 07 Aug 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Left 4 Dead's 'Tank' figure unveiled, busting through bank accounts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/31/left-4-deads-tank-figure-unveiled-busting-through-bank-accou/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/31/left-4-deads-tank-figure-unveiled-busting-through-bank-accou/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/31/left-4-deads-tank-figure-unveiled-busting-through-bank-accou/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We've got some mixed emotions about the just revealed Tank mini-statue (statuette just doesn't seem fitting for a giant terrifying zombie), created by Gaming Heads for Valve. Sure, its detail is marvelous and it comes with a totally sweet, albeit miniature, pump-action shotgun, but it's also 325 real-life actual dollars for the "exclusive edition".

At 15 inches tall, you'd better have a real special place in your heart (and in your house, preferably a cage) to shell out that kind of cash. If you'd like to save yourself a bit of money, there's a less-exclusive version (limited to a run of 750) for $300, but unfortunately it comes with no mini pump-action shotgun. And frankly, we both know that's completely unacceptable. How else will you fight off the little monster when he goes after your throat? Hmmm? Interested parties will be glad to know that orders appear to be open as of right now, though the statue won't be set free until "Q1 2011."

JoystiqLeft 4 Dead's 'Tank' figure unveiled, busting through bank accounts originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 31 Jul 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gaming-headsL4D2left-4-deadLeft-4-Dead-2microsoftpcq1-2011release-datevalvexboxSat, 31 Jul 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New L4D2 Mutation: Hard Eight (more like 'Just Hard')]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/17/new-l4d2-mutation-hard-eight-more-like-just-hard/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/17/new-l4d2-mutation-hard-eight-more-like-just-hard/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/17/new-l4d2-mutation-hard-eight-more-like-just-hard/#commentsFiled under: , ,

At first, we really liked the idea of Left 4 Dead 2 "mutations." They promised fun tweaks to the gameplay to keep it interesting and fresh. In practice, however, they seem more like an excuse for Valve to make the game even harder. For instance, this week's mutation is "Hard Eight," which doubles the maximum number of active special Infected from four to eight. Eight.

What's that? You just killed a Boomer? Well, don't worry, because there are seven more standing right behind you.

JoystiqNew L4D2 Mutation: Hard Eight (more like 'Just Hard') originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 17 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>L4D2Left-4-DeadLeft-4-Dead-2microsoftmutationpcValvexboxSat, 17 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Left 4 Dead 2's latest mutation is nothing but swords]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/10/left-4-dead-2s-latest-mutation-is-nothing-but-swords/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/10/left-4-dead-2s-latest-mutation-is-nothing-but-swords/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/10/left-4-dead-2s-latest-mutation-is-nothing-but-swords/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The official Left 4 Dead 2 blog has posted the latest mutation to Valve's great zombie apocalypse simulation and it's ... swords. All swords, all the time. Hacking, slashing, slicing, dicing, piercing, thrusting -- you name it, you'll be doing it against the undead horde.

The post also has the results of the poll about players' favorite level finale, and Dark Carnival's Midnight Riders concert takes the win on Xbox 360, with The Parish's bridge traversal tying it for PC players. The worst? Unanimously, Hard Rain's boat wait is the pick (and we'd have to agree). Finally, the blog teases next week's mutation with the words "Hard Eight." That could only mean one thing: Get ready to star in an underrated Paul Thomas Anderson movie!

JoystiqLeft 4 Dead 2's latest mutation is nothing but swords originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 10 Jul 2010 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>L4D2Left-4-Dead-2microsoftmutationpcvalvexboxSat, 10 Jul 2010 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[X10: Left 4 Dead 2 'The Passing' DLC in March, L4D1 tie-in DLC to follow]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/11/l4d2-the-passing-dlc-in-march-l4d1-tie-in-dlc-to-follow/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/11/l4d2-the-passing-dlc-in-march-l4d1-tie-in-dlc-to-follow/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/11/l4d2-the-passing-dlc-in-march-l4d1-tie-in-dlc-to-follow/#comments So what's the appropriate greeting for when you pass another survivor in the zombie apocalypse? We'll find out next month, when Valve plans to release the first Left 4 Dead 2 DLC campaign, "The Passing," on Xbox 360 and PC. The Passing will feature non-playable appearances by the original Left 4 Dead cast (those shadowy figures in the background there), who will aid L4D2's four survivors during the third act of the new campaign, which is set in rural Georgia.

Not one to leave holes in a good story, Valve will explain the original survivors' frantic journey to Georgia by way of -- yes, it's really happening -- a new DLC add-on for Left 4 Dead 1 (not compatible with L4D2). No additional details were provided about the upcoming L4D1 DLC by Valve at X10 today, but it will follow the release of The Passing campaign and a digital comic (illustrated by Michael Avon Oeming) that will tie together the two DLC stories.

Additionally, Valve confirmed that The Passing will also include new arenas for Survival, Versus and Scavenge modes, and a new co-op challenge mode. Players will also encounter a new "uncommon common" infected, dubbed the Fallen Survivor, which can drop random items when killed. The Passing is currently on track for a "late March" release.

Gallery: Left 4 Dead 2: The Passing

JoystiqX10: Left 4 Dead 2 'The Passing' DLC in March, L4D1 tie-in DLC to follow originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Feb 2010 19:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>digital-comicdlcl4dl4d1l4d2left-4-deadleft-4-dead-2Microsoftrelease-datethe-passingvalvex10Xbox-360Thu, 11 Feb 2010 19:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Left 4 Dead 2 PC gets new Steam patch, Russian subtitles]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/21/left-4-dead-2-pc-gets-new-steam-patch-russian-subtitles/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/21/left-4-dead-2-pc-gets-new-steam-patch-russian-subtitles/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/21/left-4-dead-2-pc-gets-new-steam-patch-russian-subtitles/#comments
 Valve's just served up a fresh update for Left 4 Dead 2 that aims to give our fellow survivors a gnawed-off leg up on the zombie horde. Most of the fixes deal with backend issues, streamlining the lobby system, and making official dedicated servers preferred when searching for team matches. The game now also has Russian subtitles for our comrades defending the Red Square (which, of course, is really a Burger Tank in the deep south). Remember: communication is paramount to winning the war against the undead.

Head past the break for the full patch notes.

Continue reading Left 4 Dead 2 PC gets new Steam patch, Russian subtitles

JoystiqLeft 4 Dead 2 PC gets new Steam patch, Russian subtitles originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 Dec 2009 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fpsl4d2left-4-deadleft-4-dead-2patchsteamvalveMon, 21 Dec 2009 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Left 4 Dead 2 sold 2 million at retail in 2 weeks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/left-4-dead-2-sold-2-million-at-retail-in-2-weeks/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/left-4-dead-2-sold-2-million-at-retail-in-2-weeks/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/left-4-dead-2-sold-2-million-at-retail-in-2-weeks/#comments Valve apparently threw Boomer bile all over Left 4 Dead 2, because hordes of consumers gobbled up two million retail copies globally since its release a couple weeks ago. Valve won't release the Steam digital distribution sales data, so that's not included in the retail count. According to the developer, sales are currently double that of the original, with "Black Friday" helping to push copies into the hands of players (who now have their hands full with two Tanks, a Spitter, a Hunter, and a Jockey coming in for the kill).

Valve also noted that information about L4D2's first batch of downloadable content would be coming very soon.

Gallery: Left 4 Dead 2

JoystiqLeft 4 Dead 2 sold 2 million at retail in 2 weeks originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaElectronic-Artsfpsl4d2left-4-dead-2MicrosoftshootervalveXbox-360Tue, 01 Dec 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: Left 4 Dead 2 (Xbox 360)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/review-left-4-dead-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/review-left-4-dead-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/review-left-4-dead-2/#comments When Valve announced Left 4 Dead 2 during Microsoft's E3 2009 press conference -- less than seven months after the release of the award-winning original -- gamers were, perhaps rightfully, shocked. This was the same Valve that spent nearly ten years iterating on Team Fortress 2 and whose experiment in episodic gaming has forced us to reevaluate our expectations for future installments of Half-Life 2 using the "Star Wars-definition" of episodic.

So when Valve announced a direct sequel to the ground-breaking Left 4 Dead on what could only be considered an accelerated schedule for normal developers (and an impossibly accelerated schedule for Valve) we had every right to be shocked. Valve answered this concern with assurances that Left 4 Dead 2 was an entirely new game, with changes that could not be simply grafted onto the original. And the team was right! ... But that's the problem.

Gallery: Left 4 Dead 2 (07/10/09)

Continue reading Review: Left 4 Dead 2 (Xbox 360)

JoystiqReview: Left 4 Dead 2 (Xbox 360) originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 08:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EAElectronic-ArtsL4D2Left-4-Dead-2MicrosoftValveXbox-360Fri, 20 Nov 2009 08:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Left 4 Dead 2 delayed in UK, due 'by Friday morning']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/17/left-4-dead-2-delayed-in-uk-due-by-friday-morning/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/17/left-4-dead-2-delayed-in-uk-due-by-friday-morning/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/17/left-4-dead-2-delayed-in-uk-due-by-friday-morning/#comments
We'd usually say it's a good thing when a zombie invasion gets postponed, but not when we're talking about Left 4 Dead 2 releasing in the UK a couple days after the rest of the world. According to Valve's own L4D2 blog, "copies of the game are still arriving" across the pond, with assurances from the developer that it will "have everyone in the UK playing Left 4 Dead 2 by Friday morning." Wait -- everyone in the UK? Whoa now guys!

While Xbox 360 owners and PC gamers who still buy physical copies of software are out of luck, Valve says that everyone in the region who pre-ordered L4D2 via Steam can play it right now. Of course, those left waiting can pretend they're fighting to survive the scariest of all Left 4 Dead campaigns: "Delay of Game" (tagline: "Patience never killed anyone -- until now!").

JoystiqLeft 4 Dead 2 delayed in UK, due 'by Friday morning' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 16:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>delayseaea-partnerselectronic-artsl4d2left-4-deadleft-4-dead-2Microsoftrelease-dateukvalveXbox-360Tue, 17 Nov 2009 16:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Left 4 Dead 2: now with 4 times as many pre-orders]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/05/left-4-dead-2-now-with-4-times-as-many-pre-orders/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/05/left-4-dead-2-now-with-4-times-as-many-pre-orders/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/05/left-4-dead-2-now-with-4-times-as-many-pre-orders/#comments
As if blissfully dancing on the grave of its opposing and recently deceased boycott, Valve's shambler-shooting sequel, Left 4 Dead 2, seems destined to surpass its predecessor. Speaking to CVG, Chet Faliszek revealed that pre-orders for the game had quadrupled those enjoyed by the original game. "As we get closer to launch we see the reaction to the demo, pre-orders are four times what Left 4 Dead 1 was, people's excitement, the boycott itself and how it's changed..." he said. "I think people are just excited now."

Having tested what the power of the people can accomplish (most of all when wielding skull-smashing implements) Valve can finally let that excitement wash over them, content that fans have latched on to what's in the game -- and not what's missing. "Honestly I made the joke and it's true: If you put $20 in a box and charge $10 for it someone would complain you didn't put $50 in a box," added Faliszek. "Not to say some of the concerns raised aren't valid, but you're always going to have some kind of upset and that's not how we work. We work at looking at the project and trying to get it out."

Valve gets Left 4 Dead 2 out on November 17th.

JoystiqLeft 4 Dead 2: now with 4 times as many pre-orders originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chet-faliszekfpsl4d2left-4-dead-2Microsoftpre-ordersvalveXbox-360zombiesThu, 05 Nov 2009 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Pre-order Left 4 Dead 2, get a spiffy Team Fortress 2 hat]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/03/pre-order-l4d2-get-a-spiffy-team-fortress-2-hat/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/03/pre-order-l4d2-get-a-spiffy-team-fortress-2-hat/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/03/pre-order-l4d2-get-a-spiffy-team-fortress-2-hat/#comments Left 4 Dead survivor Bill's hat is now available in Team Fortress 2 for those who pre-ordered Left 4 Dead 2 from Steam or "participating retailers." Though the hat does ... apparently nothing, it implies - in the immortal words of Destiny's Child - "I'm not gonna give up, I'm not gon' stop, I'm gonna work harder, I'm a survivor."

Some may hold issue with the fact that the Team Fortress and Left 4 Dead universes have collided; however, Valve has explained the phenomena, stating that "while conducting a science experiment on parallel dimensions, Bill's hat fell off a table into the Team Fortress universe." Done! That's all the justification required. Oh, and if Bill's hat isn't enough incentive to pre-order the zombie apocalypse survival simulator, know that the game is currently 10% off on Steam.

[Thanks, ZaxCG2]

JoystiqPre-order Left 4 Dead 2, get a spiffy Team Fortress 2 hat originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>l4d2left-4-dead-2pre-orderteam-fortress-2valveTue, 03 Nov 2009 16:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Left 4 Dead 2 twofer: 'Edited version' approved for Australia; 'Realism mode' revealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/08/left-4-dead-2-twofer-edited-version-approved-for-australia/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/08/left-4-dead-2-twofer-edited-version-approved-for-australia/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/08/left-4-dead-2-twofer-edited-version-approved-for-australia/#comments We're going to break this post down into three distinct (and clichéd!) categories: the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly.

First, the Good: The suddenly puritanical Australian government -- by way of The Office of Film and Literature Classification -- has seen fit to grant the previously unclassified Left 4 Dead 2 an MA 15+ rating, paving the way for millions of impressionable minds to be programmed into zombie-killing machines.

Next, the Bad: The version of Left 4 Dead 2 that the OFLC approved was an "edited version" that "no longer contains depictions of decapitation, dismemberment, wound detail or piles of dead bodies lying about the environment." In other words, it's nothing like the real zombie apocalypse. And when the inevitable human-vs-zombie war reaches Australia's isolated shores, her people will be ill prepared for what they encounter. "Gross, these zombie corpses don't disappear when you kill them! And, what's this? Blood?"

Valve and publisher EA are still hoping to launch an unmodified version, pending the October 22 review by the OFLC board.

Lastly, the Ugly: 1UP noticed a "special modifier" in its Scavenge Mode demo last night: "Realism mode." Valve's Doug Lombardi explained that it was for the serious player: "Take Portal for example: We had our best internal players who could blow through that game in about 30 minutes, but within weeks of launching it we had people on YouTube beating [the testers'] times by 10 minutes or more. Realism is for those players." In other words, it's training for the real zombie apocalypse. If our imagination is any indication, expect Realism mode to feature plenty of realistic pants crapping.

Gallery: Left 4 Dead 2 - Scavenge Multiplayer Mode


Source - "Left 4 Dead 2 Secures Australian Release" [Edge Online]
Source - Realism mode detailed [1UP]

JoystiqLeft 4 Dead 2 twofer: 'Edited version' approved for Australia; 'Realism mode' revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Oct 2009 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>L4D2Left-4-Dead-2MicrosoftRealism-ModeValveXbox-360Thu, 08 Oct 2009 12:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Left 4 Dead 2 trying 2 approaches 4 sales in Australia]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/07/left-4-dead-2-trying-2-approaches-4-sales-in-australia/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/07/left-4-dead-2-trying-2-approaches-4-sales-in-australia/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/07/left-4-dead-2-trying-2-approaches-4-sales-in-australia/#comments Valve is working two angles to get Left 4 Dead 2 on Australian consoles and PCs, following the Aussie ratings board's refusal to classify the zombie shooter. One version of L4D2 making its way through the OFLC is an "Australia specific" (i.e. edited) take on the game, while the other is the gore-lovin' original, which Valve currently has on appeal.

Gamespot spoke with Valve's Gabe Newell, who explained that the next step for the unedited version won't occur until October 22, which means the timing gets tight in terms of manufacturing and other hurdles before a November 17 launch. Valve project manager Erik Johnson finds the OFLC's issues with the sequel to be "inconsistent" because of Left 4 Dead's unedited release in the region. We wish Valve (and the gamers of Australia) all the best in working out those Michael Atkinson issues.

Source -- Valve to resubmit two versions L4D2 (Gamespot)
Source -- Newell discusses ban on video (Gamespot)

Gallery: Left 4 Dead 2

JoystiqLeft 4 Dead 2 trying 2 approaches 4 sales in Australia originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Oct 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiafpsl4d2left-4-dead-2MicrosoftoflcvalveXbox-360Wed, 07 Oct 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Left 4 Dead 2 boycotters flown to Valve; boycotters boycot original boycotters]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/10/left-4-dead-2-boycotters-flown-to-valve-boycotters-boycot-origi/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/10/left-4-dead-2-boycotters-flown-to-valve-boycotters-boycot-origi/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/10/left-4-dead-2-boycotters-flown-to-valve-boycotters-boycot-origi/#comments
The two Steam users (Walking_Target and Agent of Chaos) who kick-started a Left 4 Dead 2 boycott, soon after the game was announced at E3 2009, were recently invited to Valve's offices to play the game and interview members of its development team. While both users (pictured above invading Valve boss Gabe Newell's personal space) vow to continue boycotting the upcoming title, they reported Left 4 Dead 2 "seemed balanced and 'tight' and did not feel like a rushed job."

Ironically, since visiting Valve's office the two boycott leaders have been forced to defend themselves against accusations of "corruption," a position not too removed from the one Valve now occupies in relation to the boycott. Some Steam users have asked the pair to relinquish admin duties of the boycott group, but the Valve visitors maintain the effort has progressed "well beyond what most people thought we'd get done."

The Left 4 Dead 2 Boycott group on Steam currently has over 40,000 members and requests (demands?) that Valve offer the sequel as either a free update or as a discounted expansion pack to owners of the original Left 4 Dead.

[Via Shacknews. Image credit: L4D2 Boycott Group]

JoystiqLeft 4 Dead 2 boycotters flown to Valve; boycotters boycot original boycotters originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Sep 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boycottgabe-newelll4dl4d2left-4-deadleft-4-dead-2left-4-dead-2-boycottMicrosoftvalveXbox-360Thu, 10 Sep 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[All 10 Left 4 Dead 2 melee weapons over here!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/09/all-10-left-4-dead-2-melee-weapons-over-here/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/09/all-10-left-4-dead-2-melee-weapons-over-here/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/09/all-10-left-4-dead-2-melee-weapons-over-here/#comments Speaking to Valve's Chet Faliszek at PAX, we asked how many melee weapons will make it into Left 4 Dead 2. At the time, Faliszek told us he wasn't sure, but he knew there were more melee weapons in Left 4 Dead 2 than there were guns in the original game. We followed up with Faliszek after the show and we can now share all ten of the game's melee weapons. Without further ado, they are:
  • Baseball Bat
  • Cricket Bat
  • Crowbar
  • Electric Guitar
  • Fire Axe
  • Frying Pan
  • Katana
  • Machete
  • Tonfa (police baton)
  • Chainsaw
The question you have to ask yourself: Which one of these would you abandon your teammates for? Remember, a teammate constricted by a Smoker is a teammate that can't pick up that katana over there.

JoystiqAll 10 Left 4 Dead 2 melee weapons over here! originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Sep 2009 12:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Chet-FaliszekL4D2left-4-deadleft-4-dead-2Microsoftpaxpax-2009valveXbox-360Wed, 09 Sep 2009 12:14:00 EST<![CDATA[That's a wrap: Comic-Con 2009]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/27/thats-a-wrap-comic-con-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/27/thats-a-wrap-comic-con-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/27/thats-a-wrap-comic-con-2009/#comments
Last week's San Diego Comic-Con was one crazy ride. The Joystiq representatives in attendance were trained in advanced interrogation tactics and managed to extract information on a variety of subjects. We've got an update from Peter Jackson himself on the Halo happenings, first footage of South Park Let's Go Tower Defense Play! and a new game mode for Uncharted 2! Friend, you missed one heck of a week.

But, that's okay! You can get caught up right here, right now. Simply head past the break for a complete summary of all the headlines.
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Continue reading That's a wrap: Comic-Con 2009

JoystiqThat's a wrap: Comic-Con 2009 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 27 Jul 2009 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5th-cellbioshockbioshock-2biowarecapcomcomicsdantes-infernoeaElectronic-Artsfifth-cellgears-of-warhalol4d2left-4-dead-2lost-planet-2mass-effectMicrosoftmoviesneill-blomkampNintendopeter-jacksonresident-evilresident-evil-the-darkside-chroniclesscribblenautssdcc-2009splinter-cell-convictiontatsunoko-vs-capcomthe-rockuncharted-2Uncharted-2-Among-Thievesvalvevisceral-gamesWiiXbox-360Mon, 27 Jul 2009 20:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Comic-Con 2009: Left 4 Dead 2 Swamp Fever hands-on]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/24/comic-con-2009-left-4-dead-2-swamp-fever-hands-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/24/comic-con-2009-left-4-dead-2-swamp-fever-hands-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/24/comic-con-2009-left-4-dead-2-swamp-fever-hands-on/#comments
Electronic Arts hosted a studio showcase in San Diego yesterday, just before the start of Comic-Con. Inside the Onyx Lounge were bright cheerful lights, colorful pastel colors, fresh-baked cookies and ... The Littlest Pet Shop. However, if you headed downstairs to the basement, it was very dark, mysterious and crammed with things like Brütal Legend and Left 4 Dead 2. We couldn't resist the siren call of more zombie slaying, so we plunged straight into the new Swamp Fever level being shown off.

Head on beyond the break for our writeup. Later, look for our interview with Chet Faliszek, writer for L4D2 at Valve, where, according to him, "everyone is a designer!" But for now, it's time to find out why you'll want to catch "Swamp Fever."

Gallery: Left 4 Dead 2: Swamp Fever

Continue reading Comic-Con 2009: Left 4 Dead 2 Swamp Fever hands-on

JoystiqComic-Con 2009: Left 4 Dead 2 Swamp Fever hands-on originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Jul 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>horrorl4d2Left-4-Dead-2MicrosoftSDCC-2009Swamp-FeverValveXbox-360zombiesFri, 24 Jul 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Comic-Con 2009: Left 4 Dead 2 'Swamp Fever' footage]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/23/left-4-dead-2-swamp-fever-campaign-footage/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/23/left-4-dead-2-swamp-fever-campaign-footage/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/23/left-4-dead-2-swamp-fever-campaign-footage/#comments
Attendees of the ongoing San Diego Comic-Con likely already know Valve is showing off a new campaign from Left 4 Dead 2. Instead of checking out boring old stills, we're happy to report that 1UP has uploaded some footage direct from Comic-Con showing off the new campaign. It's shaky cam footage, which can be creepy (in this case, just mildly dizzying), but we do get to see the cricket bat in action, among other things, so it's definitely worth a watch.

Head past the break for the videos.

Continue reading Comic-Con 2009: Left 4 Dead 2 'Swamp Fever' footage

JoystiqComic-Con 2009: Left 4 Dead 2 'Swamp Fever' footage originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Jul 2009 12:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fpsl4d2left-4-dead-2Microsoftsdcc-2009valveXbox-360Thu, 23 Jul 2009 12:44:00 EST