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[Capcom profits soar with help from record AAA game sales]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/06/capcom-profits-soar-with-help-from-record-aaa-game-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/06/capcom-profits-soar-with-help-from-record-aaa-game-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/06/capcom-profits-soar-with-help-from-record-aaa-game-sales/#comments Good ol' video games came through for Capcom over the twelve months ending March 31, 2011. The company reported "a history-making milestone" of five million-seller titles in the period, with Monster Hunter Freedom 3 (4.6 million units shipped) leading the pack. Additionally, Dead Rising 2 (2.2M units), Marvel vs. Capcom 3 (2M units), Super Street Fighter IV (1.6M units) and Lost Planet 2 (1.5M units) racked up high shipment numbers, and each surpassed the million-mark in pure sales.

In all, net sales in Capcom's "Consumer Online Games" division increased 60.8 percent over the previous fiscal year to ¥70.3 billion (about $873 million). But the sales success of so-called "major titles" wasn't the only contributing factor in Capcom's record bottom line for a fiscal year, which showed a net income increase of 257.6 percent over the previous year to ¥7.75 billion -- roughly $96.3 million in profit!

Despite reported losses of ¥1.45 billion due to restructuring and another ¥105 million filed under "disaster" -- the Great East Japan Earthquake knocked out ten of Capcom's arcades -- all of the company's business units recorded operating income gains for the year. Notably, the "Mobile Contents" division enjoyed some highlights, with downloads of The Smurfs' Village Facebook game exceeding expectations "by far" and the Japan-only iPhone version of Ghost Trick faring "well."

Capcom tempered its jubilation, however, noting that the forecast for the current fiscal year (ending March 31, 2012) calls for "lower sales and earnings." The company anticipates "immeasurable economic losses" in Japan due to the earthquake and its aftermath, as well as a "downturn in consumer confidence" in the game industry at large -- not to mention Capcom's weaker offering of AAA titles this year. Dead Rising 2 ... again?

"We will focus more than ever before on our global operations as the environment surrounding the industry rapidly changes," Capcom said, observing that "the rise of social games [is] fueling the growth of new competitors in the industry."

JoystiqCapcom profits soar with help from record AAA game sales originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 May 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomdead-rising-2earningsfinancialfy-2010lost-planet-2marvel-vs-capcom-3microsoftmobilemonster-hunter-freedom-3playstationps3pspq4salessonysuper-street-fighter-ivthe-smurfs-villagexboxFri, 06 May 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Monster Hunter again captures 'center stage' in Capcom 9-month fiscal report]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/02/monster-hunter-again-captures-center-stage-in-capcom-9-month-f/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/02/monster-hunter-again-captures-center-stage-in-capcom-9-month-f/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/02/monster-hunter-again-captures-center-stage-in-capcom-9-month-f/#comments At this time last year, Capcom was thanking Monster Hunter Tri for helping the company boost its 2009 year-end financial results. Today, Capcom heralded the monstrous shipments of Monster Hunter Freedom 3 that closed out 2010 and propelled the publisher's profits up nearly 300 percent in a nine-month period. During the first three quarters of its current fiscal year (which ends March 31, 2011), Capcom netted ¥6.836 billion (nearly $84 million) in profit -- up from just ¥1.731 the same period the year before. Sales of "Consumer Online Games" (what we call "video games," excluding mobile content) were the driving force, totaling ¥54.057 billion ($663.6 million) -- a bit more than 76 percent of total sales for the business, which includes arcade and amusement ("slot machine") operations.

Joining Monster Hunter Freedom 3 (currently only available in Japan), Capcom noted three additional "million-sellers" in the nine-month period (April-December 2010): Dead Rising 2 (with more than 2 million units shipped); Super Street Fighter IV (1.6 million units shipped "mainly to Europe and the United States"); and Lost Planet 2 (1.5 million sold -- "though the figure was less than [the] projected shipment").

During the period, Capcom also worked on "rebuilding the development departments comprising our core competence" in an effort to shift greater resources to its mobile operations, with specific focus on social gaming. Sales of "Mobile Contents" for the three quarters amounted to a modest ¥2.383 billion ($29.25 million), led by a bevy of iPhone releases and some "positive surprises," including the popularity of The Smurfs' Village on Facebook. And Capcom hasn't even accounted for all the MaXplosion press in January yet!

JoystiqMonster Hunter again captures 'center stage' in Capcom 9-month fiscal report originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Feb 2011 11:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomcapcom-mobiledead-rising-2earningsfacebookfinancialfy-2010lost-planet-2microsoftmillion-sellersmobilemonster-hunter-freedom-3monster-hunter-portable-3rdplaystationps3pspq3salessonysuper-street-fighter-ivthe-smurfs-villagexboxWed, 02 Feb 2011 11:49:00 EST<![CDATA[Lost Planet 2, Yakuza demonstrated on NGP]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/27/lost-planet-2-yakuza-demonstrated-on-ngp/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/27/lost-planet-2-yakuza-demonstrated-on-ngp/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/27/lost-planet-2-yakuza-demonstrated-on-ngp/#commentsCapcom's Jun Takeuchi took to the stage at today's PlayStation Meeting to show off Lost Planet 2 running on the NGP handheld -- as a demonstration only, as he said Capcom was not announcing new titles at tonight's event -- "but before long we will be able to announce new titles for NGP." According to Takeuchi, LP2 was running on MT Framework Mobile (which also powers Capcom's 3DS games) and this demo was put together in just two weeks.

"I'm sure you've seen the PS3 version," he told the audience, "and the quality is just as good" on NGP. Takeuchi said the NGP could handle the "full specification."

Next up, Sega's Toshihiro Nagoshi demonstrated assets from Yakuza: Of The End, to show that "everything can be transcribed [from PS3] onto NGP."

JoystiqLost Planet 2, Yakuza demonstrated on NGP originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 27 Jan 2011 02:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Capcomjun-takeuchiLost-Planet-2ngpplaystationplaystation-meeting-2011playstation-vitapspsonytoshihiro-nagoshivitayakuzayakuza-of-the-endThu, 27 Jan 2011 02:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Capcom first-half FY 2010 finds sales up, profits down]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/28/capcom-first-half-fy-2010-finds-sales-up-profits-down/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/28/capcom-first-half-fy-2010-finds-sales-up-profits-down/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/28/capcom-first-half-fy-2010-finds-sales-up-profits-down/#comments
 Capcom is gettin' by, as the publisher announced that sales were up 4.7 percent, with net profit down 39.9 percent, during the first half of fiscal year 2010, ending March 31, 2011. The publisher also announced that Jun Takeuchi can now add "Corporate Officer" to his already outrageous title of "Deputy Head of Consumer Games R&D Division and General Manager of R&D Production Department." Think that title sounds serious in English? Check it out in Japanese: 執 行 役 員CS開発副統括 兼 制作部長.

Net sales reached ¥40.7 billion ($501M) during the six-month period ending September 30, 2010, thanks to the release of Dead Rising 2 and continued sales of Super Street Fighter IV. The publisher also stated that Sengoku BASARA: Samurai Heroes and Monster Hunter spin-off Monhan Nikki Pokapoka Airu Mura shipped over 500 thousands units apiece. These titles helped push that 4.7% increase in sales over the same period last year. Overall, Capcom states sales were stagnant due to the late release of Dead Rising 2 and the "substantial underperformance" of Lost Planet 2.

Due to the sales issues, net profit for the first half was ¥1.7 billion ($22 million, down 39.9%). The company forecasts it'll end the fiscal year next March with sales of ¥91 billion ($1.1 billion) and a net income of ¥6.5 billion ($80 million).

JoystiqCapcom first-half FY 2010 finds sales up, profits down originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Oct 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BusinessCapcomdead-rising-2Financialsfy-2010Lost-Planet-2microsoftpcplaystationps3pspq2sonyxboxThu, 28 Oct 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon discounts a bunch of Capcom games today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/25/amazon-discounts-a-bunch-of-capcom-games-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/25/amazon-discounts-a-bunch-of-capcom-games-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/25/amazon-discounts-a-bunch-of-capcom-games-today/#commentsAmazon has combined a variety of great Capcom deals (and Lost Planet 2) for its Deal of the Day. The $25 Super Street Fighter IV offer from last week is back, for PS3. You can also get Ace Attorney Investigations: Miles Edgeworth or Mega Man Zero Collection on DS for $20, or the Platinum Hits version of Dead Rising on Xbox 360 for an amazing $11.64.

Should you decide to purchase Lost Planet 2 for some reason, Amazon isn't judging. The retailer is offering that game on both PS3 and Xbox 360 for $20. These deals will only be available today or until the supply runs out, as usual.

JoystiqAmazon discounts a bunch of Capcom games today originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Oct 2010 12:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Ace-Attorney-Investigations-Miles-Edgeworthamazondead-risingdslost-planet-2mega-man-zero-collectionmicrosoftnintendoplaystationps3super-street-fighter-ivxboxMon, 25 Oct 2010 12:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Capcom reduces fiscal forecast due to Lost Planet 2 shortfall]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/04/capcom-reduces-fiscal-forecast-due-to-lost-planet-2-shortfall/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/04/capcom-reduces-fiscal-forecast-due-to-lost-planet-2-shortfall/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/04/capcom-reduces-fiscal-forecast-due-to-lost-planet-2-shortfall/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Capcom has adjusted its earnings outlook for the current fiscal year, ending March 31, 2011. Despite some promising sales numbers in Japan from Sengoku Basara: Samurai Heroes and the Japan-only Monster Hunter spinoff Monhan Nikki Pokapoka Airu Mura, the publisher is expecting 91 billion yen in net sales this year ($1.09 billion) instead of the previous estimate of 95 billion ($1.14 billion).

Contributing factors to the falling forecast include the rising yen vs. the dollar and euro, the one-month delay of Dead Rising 2, and continued fallout from underperformance of Lost Planet 2. On a happier note, this reduced forecast is still much better than the 66.84 billion yen Capcom pulled in last year.

JoystiqCapcom reduces fiscal forecast due to Lost Planet 2 shortfall originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Oct 2010 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomdead-rising-2earningsfy-2011lost-planet-2microsoftnintendoplaystationps3pspsonywiixboxMon, 04 Oct 2010 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Keiji Inafune remains critical of Japanese games, deems even Capcom 'complacent']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/20/keiji-inafune-remains-critical-of-japanese-games-deems-even-cap/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/20/keiji-inafune-remains-critical-of-japanese-games-deems-even-cap/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/20/keiji-inafune-remains-critical-of-japanese-games-deems-even-cap/#commentsFiled under: , ,

"I think Japanese gaming is dead. When I say these things, I'm called a traitor. But I love Japan. I want to save it." Keiji Inafune still hovers over the Japanese video game industry, defibrillator paddles at the ready. According to an interview with the New York Times, the outspoken designer and Global Head of Production at Capcom saw little at this year's Tokyo Game Show to change his pessimistic outlook on Japan's creations.

"I look around T.G.S., and everyone's making awful games. Japan is at least five years behind," he said. "It's like we're still making games for the last generation of game consoles." And Inafune's ire isn't just aimed at competitors -- he cited Lost Planet 2 as a clear failure to connect with audiences everywhere. "Lost Planet 1 was designed for the Western market. But the guys who made Lost Planet 2 were misguided. They made it too Japanese. They made it like Monster Hunter."

The Monster Hunter franchise is far more popular in Japan than it is elsewhere, and modifying it could alienate its current customer base. Inafune is willing to compromise here: "We basically want to make games that will sell globally, but some games might sell only in Japan.That's O.K. - as long as we make a profit on it." Still, he warned that Capcom remained complacent in the ranks of worldwide competitors, who are already targeting bigger markets like China. "I'm always so shocked when I see global sales rankings," he said. "I think: Wow, Capcom's ranked so low. However you approach it, we're dead. Resident Evil sold 5 million copies. That's still no good."

Inafune is well aware of how harsh his comments appear among Japanese creators -- who are "always so ambiguous" -- and expects to be treated like a "lunatic." With that kind of drive, he'll either be in full control of Capcom and the Japanese industry within the next five years ... or be relegated to playing cards with Yu Suzuki in a basement somewhere.

JoystiqKeiji Inafune remains critical of Japanese games, deems even Capcom 'complacent' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Sep 2010 09:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomchinajapankeiji-inafuneLost-Planet-2tgs-2010Mon, 20 Sep 2010 09:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Lost Planet 2 can be found on PC October 15]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/16/lost-planet-2-can-be-found-on-pc-october-15/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/16/lost-planet-2-can-be-found-on-pc-october-15/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/16/lost-planet-2-can-be-found-on-pc-october-15/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Capcom has announced that its recent co-op monster hunting simulator -- or, to be more precise, its recent co-op monster hunting simulator titled Lost Planet 2 -- will arrive on the PC October 15. What's new for this version of the coolly received title? Well, it contains native support for NVIDIA 3D Vision and 3D Vision Surround graphics cards, meaning if you've collected the necessary gadgets, you'll be able to topple the towering Akrid and watch as they fall through your monitor, landing squarely in your half-eaten bowl of Cap'n Crunch. That's how 3D works, right?

Check out the rigorous system requirements after the jump, or, if reading's not your thing, download the Lost Planet 2 preview, and then watch to see if your computer bursts into flames.

Continue reading Lost Planet 2 can be found on PC October 15

JoystiqLost Planet 2 can be found on PC October 15 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 16 Aug 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dcapcomLost-Planet-2pcportrelease-datewindowsMon, 16 Aug 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[More 'sluggish' sales plague Capcom financials]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/29/more-sluggish-sales-plague-capcom-financials/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/29/more-sluggish-sales-plague-capcom-financials/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/29/more-sluggish-sales-plague-capcom-financials/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Capcom experienced another "sluggish" performance in its latest financial quarter -- the first of Fiscal 2010, from April 1 to June 30 -- and consequently blamed slow growth of Lost Planet 2 sales, among other things. Net sales for the quarter were down 2.4 percent year-over-year at 19 million yen ($219 million) and net income dropped a dramatic 90 percent from last year to the tune of 213 million yen ($2.5 million).

Although titles like Super Street Fighter IV and Monster Hunter Frontier Online showed what Capcom calls "steady growth," LP2 and Monster Hunter Tri only sold at a "sluggish pace." The first two weeks of Ghost Trick sales were also met with disappointment, although the game premiered at number two in its first week of Japanese sales.

The Japanese publisher also lamented "shrinking" US and European markets "under the stagnating economy," as well as fluctuating exchange rates. Though sales across the board were lower than expected, Capcom considers its financial forecast for this fiscal year to be unaffected.

JoystiqMore 'sluggish' sales plague Capcom financials originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Jul 2010 10:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Capcomdsghost-trick-phantom-detectiveLost-Planet-2microsoftmobilemonster-hunter-frontiernintendopcplaystationps3pspsonysuper-street-fighter-ivwiixboxThu, 29 Jul 2010 10:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Madden 11 demo leads rush of Xbox Marketplace content]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/27/madden-11-demo-leads-rush-of-xbox-marketplace-content/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/27/madden-11-demo-leads-rush-of-xbox-marketplace-content/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/27/madden-11-demo-leads-rush-of-xbox-marketplace-content/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The Xbox 360 forecast is absolutely droughtful this week at retail, with the Clash of the Titans theater DVD release tie-in drying up store shelves. Thankfully, the Xbox Live Marketplace is overflowing with new content this week, including today's release of the new Madden demo.

Additionally, DLC for a pool of recent releases -- Alan Wake, Lost Planet 2 and Transformers, to name a few -- flowed out today, and the "Summer of Arcade" shines on tomorrow with Hydro Thunder Hurricane. (Did you read our review yet?) Finally, Borderands' trio of add-ons is on sale through Sunday.

Check out complete details of the week's XBLM content after the break.

Continue reading Madden 11 demo leads rush of Xbox Marketplace content

JoystiqMadden 11 demo leads rush of Xbox Marketplace content originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 Jul 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deal-of-the-weekdemogames-on-demandlord-of-the-rings-conquestlost-planet-2madden-nfl-11microsoftskate-3super-street-fighter-ivtiger-woods-pga-tour-11wwe-smackdown-vs-raw-2008wwe-smackdown-vs-raw-2009XBLAWednesdayXBLMxboxTue, 27 Jul 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Two more Lost Planet 2 multiplayer maps coming next week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/27/two-more-lost-planet-2-multiplayer-maps-coming-next-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/27/two-more-lost-planet-2-multiplayer-maps-coming-next-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/27/two-more-lost-planet-2-multiplayer-maps-coming-next-week/#comments Looking for a wider range of environments to get your customizable Lost Planet 2 character knocked around in? According to a recent Capcom press release, two new maps for the game's competitive multiplayer component will go on sale on the PlayStation Store for $4.99 on June 1, and on Xbox Live Marketplace for 400 on June 2.

The map pack will include "Frozen Wasteland," a renovated version of a map from the original Lost Planet, and "Dockyard Battle," a 16-player arena modeled after the factory level from Episode 4 of the game's campaign. We were hoping for a multiplayer version of the railway cannon level, but ... well, that would lead to some awfully one-sided battles, wouldn't it?

JoystiqTwo more Lost Planet 2 multiplayer maps coming next week originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 27 May 2010 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomdlclost-planetLost-Planet-2Lost-Planet-Extreme-Conditionmap-packMicrosoftmultiplayerXbox-360Thu, 27 May 2010 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Lost Planet 2 Avatar items include adorable Akrid]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/21/lost-planet-2-avatar-items-include-adorable-akrid/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/21/lost-planet-2-avatar-items-include-adorable-akrid/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/21/lost-planet-2-avatar-items-include-adorable-akrid/#commentsCapcom has dropped a veritable swarm of Lost Planet 2 Avatar goodies onto Xbox live. Most of the gear is comprised of clothing from the various factions in the game -- but we all know that the stars of the show in Lost Planet 2 are the creepy, crawly Akrid.

Unfortunately, you can only snag one of the giant bugs via the Avatar Marketplace: Gordiant, otherwise known as "that giant salamander thing." As you can see, it's not quite as threatening in Avatar pet form. In fact, it's kind of adorable.

You can see Gordiant and the rest of the Lost Planet 2 Avatar collection here.

JoystiqLost Planet 2 Avatar items include adorable Akrid originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 May 2010 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatar-marketplaceavatarscapcomlost-planetLost-Planet-2xblmxbox-liveFri, 21 May 2010 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[FIFA World Cup leaves Alan in its wake on UK sales chart]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/17/fifa-world-cup-leaves-alan-in-its-wake-on-uk-sales-chart/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/17/fifa-world-cup-leaves-alan-in-its-wake-on-uk-sales-chart/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/17/fifa-world-cup-leaves-alan-in-its-wake-on-uk-sales-chart/#comments 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa fiercely protected its top spot on the UK all-formats weekly sales chart for the third week in a row. Alan Wake saw the light of retail with a second place premiere, and according to Chart-Track, totaled only 1,000 fewer units sold than FIFA. Lost Planet 2, which found itself in third, was 12,000 units behind Wake (an Xbox 360 exclusive), despite being on two platforms and going on sale several days earlier than the typical Friday release in the UK.

Ubisoft's Wii-exclusive Just Dance tripped and stumbled to fourth place, its lowest position in seven weeks. Could this be the beginning of the end for the surefooted sales star? Unlikely -- unless every Wii owner in the region already has it (which isn't out of the realm of possibility at this point).

Finally, EA's Skate 3 ollied into a fifth place debut. The complete UK top 10 can be found after the break.

Source - FIFA Just Holds Off Alan Wake And Lost Planet 2 [GFK Chart-Track]
Source - Latest UK Software Charts [GFK Chart-Track]

Continue reading FIFA World Cup leaves Alan in its wake on UK sales chart

JoystiqFIFA World Cup leaves Alan in its wake on UK sales chart originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 May 2010 10:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010-fifa-world-cup-south-africaalan-wakechart-trackfifa-world-cup-2010fifa-world-cup-2010-south-africajust-dancelost-planet-2MicrosoftNintendosalesskate-3softwareukWiiXbox-360Mon, 17 May 2010 10:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Killzone's Helghast invade Lost Planet 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/14/killzones-helghast-invade-lost-planet-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/14/killzones-helghast-invade-lost-planet-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/14/killzones-helghast-invade-lost-planet-2/#comments Not content on simply golfing, the Helghast are making their way into yet another PlayStation game. Like its Xbox 360 counterpart, the PS3 version of Lost Planet 2 will feature its own console-exclusive characters. In addition to the PS3-only Monster Hunter characters, two Helghast skins will be made available as a free download via the PSN in June. As noted on the PlayStation.Blog, this will be the only game ever to include the Helghast, a Monster Hunter, Dead Rising's Frank West, and Resident Evil's Albert Wesker all in one place.

We wouldn't be surprised, though, if Marvel Vs. Capcom 3 manages to reunite all of these characters for a second time. Check out a trailer after the break.

Continue reading Killzone's Helghast invade Lost Planet 2

JoystiqKillzone's Helghast invade Lost Planet 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 May 2010 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomdlchelghastkillzonelost-planet-2monster-hunterpsnFri, 14 May 2010 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Capcom fiscal 2011 strategy: Shorter dev cycles, more new franchises]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/10/capcom-fiscal-2011-strategy-shorter-dev-cycles-more-new-franch/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/10/capcom-fiscal-2011-strategy-shorter-dev-cycles-more-new-franch/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/10/capcom-fiscal-2011-strategy-shorter-dev-cycles-more-new-franch/#comments Capcom has made a real attempt in recent years to break down the firewall between western and eastern development, something it's still struggling with if "sluggish" sales in 2009 are any indication. But according to a recent report (warning: PDF link) circulated to investors, the company's still refining its approach and hopes to "create games faster by using a hybrid approach combining internal and outsourced development."

According to the strategy report, that will translate to more new franchises from the company, -- something it hasn't had much luck with lately, with Bionic Commando, Dark Void and Spyborgs all failing to perform exceptionally well either critically or at retail. Perhaps some of these new IPs will become downloadable, as the company says it plans on digitally distributing more games in fiscal 2011.

Capcom also used the report to show high hopes for its upcoming slate of titles, with a projected 3.6 million units sold for Monster Hunter Freedom 3, 3 million for Dead Rising 2, 2.2 for Lost Planet 2 and 2 million for Marvel vs. Capcom 3. That's certainly optimistic, considering the company's biggest seller in FY 2009, Monster Hunter Freedom Unite, sold 1.35 million copies.

JoystiqCapcom fiscal 2011 strategy: Shorter dev cycles, more new franchises originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 May 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomdark-voiddead-rising-2lost-planet-2MicrosoftpsnspyborgsxblaXbox-360Mon, 10 May 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Capcom calls earnings 'sluggish' over last fiscal year]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/07/capcom-calls-earnings-sluggish-over-last-fiscal-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/07/capcom-calls-earnings-sluggish-over-last-fiscal-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/07/capcom-calls-earnings-sluggish-over-last-fiscal-year/#commentsUsually, a company's financial results press release is just called "Financial results for [insert time period]" or something equally neutral, but Capcom went ahead and put "sluggish" in its own headline to describe its fiscal year ending March 31. The publisher's net sales for the year were ¥66.84 billion ($751.35 million), down 27.3 percent from the previous fiscal year, and net income plummeted 73.1 percent year-over-year to just ¥2.17 billion ($24.36 million).

Capcom blamed the financial decline on the delays of Lost Planet 2, Super Street Fighter IV and Monster Hunter Tri to the current fiscal year, though the company previously took these delays into account in a revised earnings forecast last December. (On the bright side, actual nets sales did surpass the predicted figures by about ¥1.84 billion.) In addition to the delays, earnings suffered from sluggish sales of Dark Void, Bionic Commando and Resident Evil: The Darkside Chronicles, which all failed to meet Capcom's expectations.

JoystiqCapcom calls earnings 'sluggish' over last fiscal year originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 07 May 2010 09:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bionic-commandocapcomdark-voidearningsfinancial-resultsfy-2009-2010lost-planet-2q4resident-evil-darkside-chroniclesResident-Evil-The-Darkside-ChroniclessalessoftwareFri, 07 May 2010 09:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: Lost Planet 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/06/review-lost-planet-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/06/review-lost-planet-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/06/review-lost-planet-2/#comments In Lost Planet 2, if you want to swap your grenades for the T-ENG Gun (a device that lets you transfer precious Thermal Energy to your injured teammates), you press Y and Left Trigger simultaneously. Be careful, though -- if you press Left Trigger a fraction of a second before you press Y, you'll chuck a grenade at your teammates, which they likely won't appreciate in their state of physical distress.

While far from the most important aspect of the game, this cumbersome button mapping is indicative of the whole Lost Planet 2 experience: It's a completely functional, interesting gameplay mechanic, but it's utterly hamstrung by a nonsensical design choice. Unfortunately, the game suffers from so many of these flabbergasting and terrible design choices, that even its strongest features can't stand up to much scrutiny.

Gallery: Lost Planet 2 (05-06-2010)

Continue reading Review: Lost Planet 2

JoystiqReview: Lost Planet 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 May 2010 12:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomlost-planetlost-planet-2Lost-Planet-Extreme-ConditionMicrosoftXbox-360Thu, 06 May 2010 12:01:00 EST<![CDATA['Exclusive' GameStop Lost Planet 2 DLC already on Marketplace]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/05/exclusive-gamestop-lost-planet-2-dlc-already-on-marketplace/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/05/exclusive-gamestop-lost-planet-2-dlc-already-on-marketplace/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/05/exclusive-gamestop-lost-planet-2-dlc-already-on-marketplace/#comments We knew that the exclusive Lost Planet 2 pre-order bonus maps from GameStop would be publicly available eventually, but this is just silly. A sharp-eyed tipster has revealed that the Lost Planet 2 "Map Pack #1" is actually already available on Xbox Live Marketplace. That's particularly noteworthy considering the game's retail release is still a week away. We're guessing someone flipped the "release maps" lever a little too early, and chances are the map pack will soon vanish into the ether once more.

For what it's worth, the pack is currently priced at 400 ($5). We suppose you could be sneaky and buy it early, but if you really wanted the maps you've probably pre-ordered already, right?

[Thanks, Joey]

Joystiq'Exclusive' GameStop Lost Planet 2 DLC already on Marketplace originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 May 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomdlcgamestoplost-planetlost-planet-2Lost-Planet-Extreme-ConditionMicrosoftxblmXbox-360xbox-liveWed, 05 May 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Capcom wants to put Frank West into as many games as possible]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/27/capcom-wants-to-put-frank-west-into-as-many-games-as-possible/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/27/capcom-wants-to-put-frank-west-into-as-many-games-as-possible/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/27/capcom-wants-to-put-frank-west-into-as-many-games-as-possible/#comments It was a tough blow to hear that Frank West wouldn't star in Dead Rising 2. All was not lost, however: Frank not only cut his teeth fighting less undead opponents in Tatsunoko vs Capcom, but there's some evidence he'll be in Marvel vs Capcom 3 -- and let's not forget his cameo in Lost Planet 2.

According to Capcom's Seth Killian, Frank West is pretty damn popular in these parts, something of which Capcom of Japan is aware. He told Destructoid that not only is Capcom of Japan "convinced" that your everyday American loves the Dead Rising protagonist, but that he'll "be making appearances in as many games as they can get him into."

Personally, we're all for it. Whatever he's in, we just hope it spawns more hilarious internet videos.

JoystiqCapcom wants to put Frank West into as many games as possible originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 Apr 2010 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomcapcom-of-japandead-risingfrank-westjapanlost-planet-2marvel-vs-capcom-3seth-killiantatsunoko-vs-capcomTue, 27 Apr 2010 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[European PSN releases for April 22]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/22/european-psn-releases-for-april-22/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/22/european-psn-releases-for-april-22/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/22/european-psn-releases-for-april-22/#comments There's a whole gang of playable content to get excited about in this week's European PSN update, such as Lead and Gold, After Burner Climax, the Lost Planet 2 multiplayer demo and UNO on the PSP. However, we'd make a strong case that the highlight of this most recent batch of additions isn't playable at all. We're speaking, of course, of the Sonic The Hedgehog comic from Archie Comics. Think we're joking? Look, right there, on the cover: "The World's Most Way Past Cool Comic!" How can you say no to that?

Choose your platform to view the corresponding release list:
(Note: Continue past the break to view both release lists.)

Continue reading European PSN releases for April 22

JoystiqEuropean PSN releases for April 22 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 22 Apr 2010 10:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>After-Burnerafter-burner-climaxlead-and-goldLost-Planet-2psn-thursdaySegaSega-AM2unoThu, 22 Apr 2010 10:50:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Lost Planet 2 multiplayer demo available for all Gold subscribers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/22/psa-lost-planet-2-multiplayer-demo-available-for-all-gold-subsc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/22/psa-lost-planet-2-multiplayer-demo-available-for-all-gold-subsc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/22/psa-lost-planet-2-multiplayer-demo-available-for-all-gold-subsc/#comments Previously available only as a gift from Capcom or embedded inside blocks of ice, the Lost Planet 2 multiplayer demo is now accessible to all on Xbox Live Gold subscribers (it is multiplayer demo, after all). The demo allows up to 16 players to go at it on the game's Turbulent Jungle map. Two different game modes are available: Elimination and Post Grab, both of which were also seen in the original Lost Planet.

Lost Planet 2's multiplayer showed promise when we took it for a spin last month, so be sure to give the demo a try. And don't forget, grabbing the demo goes toward a good cause.


Xbox.com: Add Lost Planet 2 multiplayer demo to your Xbox 360 download queue

JoystiqPSA: Lost Planet 2 multiplayer demo available for all Gold subscribers originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 22 Apr 2010 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomlost-planetlost-planet-2xblmxbox-liveThu, 22 Apr 2010 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Pair of Lost Planet 2 multiplayer maps to be GameStop pre-order bonus]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/20/pair-of-lost-planet-2-multiplayer-maps-to-be-gamestop-pre-order/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/20/pair-of-lost-planet-2-multiplayer-maps-to-be-gamestop-pre-order/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/20/pair-of-lost-planet-2-multiplayer-maps-to-be-gamestop-pre-order/#comments
Click to enlarge
During its Captivate 2010 media event last week, Capcom revealed two additional multiplayer maps for Lost Planet 2. On top of the 10 maps included on the game disc, this pair of DLC maps will be used as a pre-order incentive (apparently exclusive to GameStop) and will also be made available for all owners of the game to purchase at an unspecified point in time after the game's release.

The maps, "Helix" (pictured above) and "Back to the Island," are (according to G4) said to feature the ability to swim (well, tread water, at least) with the former taking place underwater at the NEVEC ocean research facility. The latter, a remake of a map from the original game, sounds like it starts off on the beach of Island 902, carries on into the jungle, and then eventually winds up underground after players open a mysterious hatch. It's a lost planet, after all.

Gallery: Lost Planet 2 (Captivate 2010)

JoystiqPair of Lost Planet 2 multiplayer maps to be GameStop pre-order bonus originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Apr 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomcaptivate-2010dlcgamestoplost-planet-2Microsoftpre-orderpre-order-bonusXbox-360Tue, 20 Apr 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lost Planet beta codes frozen in blocks of ice]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/19/lost-planet-beta-codes-frozen-in-blocks-of-ice/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/19/lost-planet-beta-codes-frozen-in-blocks-of-ice/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/19/lost-planet-beta-codes-frozen-in-blocks-of-ice/#comments Viral marketing is a strange beast. Example: Over the weekend, Capcom delivered several blocks of ice to eight different US cities. The catch: Each block of ice contained Lost Planet 2 merchandise and a code to get into the online multiplayer beta. The event went down this Saturday, so we're guessing that all the blocks have been found or have melted by now. Thankfully, the internet, in its unrelenting vigilance, has chronicled the event for all time. After the break, witness a small child do his damnedest to release his prize from its icy prison.

[Via That Girl's Site; Image: DJClicheDarknes]

Continue reading Lost Planet beta codes frozen in blocks of ice

JoystiqLost Planet beta codes frozen in blocks of ice originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Apr 2010 18:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomlost-planetLost-Planet-2viral-marketingMon, 19 Apr 2010 18:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Lost Planet 2 getting guest characters from Dead Rising, Monster Hunter]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/15/lost-planet-2-getting-guest-characters-from-dead-rising-monster/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/15/lost-planet-2-getting-guest-characters-from-dead-rising-monster/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/15/lost-planet-2-getting-guest-characters-from-dead-rising-monster/#comments
[Famitsu]
A handful of Lost Planet 2 screenshots from Famitsu have revealed the game will borrow the stars of two more franchises: Frank West from Dead Rising and the Scaly Knife-Gun Dude from Monster Hunter, the latter being exclusive to the PS3 version of the game. For those of you keeping track, these two join Gears of War's Marcus and Dom (who will only appear in the 360 version), Resident Evil's Wesker, and What's His Face from Lost Planet 2 in the fight against the calamitous, towering Akrid.

Though most of these crossovers seem pretty out of place, we're betting the dude from Monster Hunter will be right at home bringing down monsters the size of football stadiums. That kind of thing is right in his wheelhouse.

JoystiqLost Planet 2 getting guest characters from Dead Rising, Monster Hunter originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Apr 2010 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomcrossoverdead-risingfamitsulost-planetlost-planet-2Lost-Planet-Extreme-ConditionMicrosoftmonster-hunterscreenshotsweskerXbox-360Thu, 15 Apr 2010 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on: Lost Planet 2 (single player)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/08/lost-planet-2-single-player-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/08/lost-planet-2-single-player-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/08/lost-planet-2-single-player-preview/#comments I enjoyed the original Lost Planet, but I wouldn't call myself a fan. The third-person shooting was vanilla at best and frustrating at worst. The story and characters were forgettable -- really, do you remember any of it? But man, those bugs.

The giant bugs and beasties, known as Akrid, were the reason to play Lost Planet. I'm no scientist, so I can only postulate that somewhere, deep within the gamer's brain, there's a pleasure center dedicated solely to the destruction of glowing, orange weak points.

After playing through the first three "episodes" of Lost Planet 2 -- each split into several chapters -- the game seems to strike most of the same chords as the original. The formula hasn't changed much; the combat is exactly the same; and there's no real story to speak of -- the characters don't even have names!

The only notable changes in the sequel are the additions of four-player co-op and a few, much larger Akrid. Unfortunately, I can't say whether co-op makes for an engaging gameplay experience or not, as I was unable to test it out. What I can tell you is that co-op is bound to be better than playing alone, because that isn't very fun at all. As for the bigger baddies? I'm not sure bigger is necessarily better.

Gallery: Lost Planet 2

Continue reading Hands-on: Lost Planet 2 (single player)

JoystiqHands-on: Lost Planet 2 (single player) originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Apr 2010 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomlost-planet-2MicrosoftXbox-360Thu, 08 Apr 2010 00:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Capcom announces Lost Planet 2 demo charity program]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/01/capcom-announces-lost-planet-2-demo-charity-program/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/01/capcom-announces-lost-planet-2-demo-charity-program/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/01/capcom-announces-lost-planet-2-demo-charity-program/#comments Sure, you're probably excited to download the Lost Planet 2 demo so you can actually play the game, but did you know it will also help a good cause? Capcom has announced a new program that will see the company donate $20,000 to Music for Relief -- a non-profit organization "dedicated to providing aid to victims of natural disasters and the prevention of such disasters" -- if one million players download the Lost Planet 2 demo. If a total of 1.5 million download the demo, Capcom will donate an additional $5,000 for a total of $25,000.

In addition, Capcom will be hosting a pre-launch Lost Planet 2 party and "celebrity" tournament on May 6 in Los Angeles. Gamers will be able to sign up to attend the event -- on a first come, first serve basis -- on Capcom-Unity later this month. To win a chance to play in the tournament, however, players will have to submit tips for playing the multiplayer demo. Four winners will be chosen by Capcom to attend the tournament. The winners of the tournament will get to choose which Music for Relief cause will receive the money Capcom. Full details on the contest can be found right here.

So, get crackin' and grab your early access demo redemption code. It just might do someone some good.

JoystiqCapcom announces Lost Planet 2 demo charity program originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 01 Apr 2010 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomcharitylost-planetLost-Planet-2Lost-Planet-Extreme-ConditionMicrosoftmusic-for-reliefXbox-360Thu, 01 Apr 2010 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Japanese Lost Planet 2 Xbox bundle includes USB drive]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/01/lost-planet-2-xbox-360-bundle-includes-usb-drive/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/01/lost-planet-2-xbox-360-bundle-includes-usb-drive/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/01/lost-planet-2-xbox-360-bundle-includes-usb-drive/#commentsMicrosoft is putting forth its best effort in the hope that Japanese consumers who want to play Lost Planet 2 won't just buy it for the PS3, which they already own. The company has announced a Lost Planet 2 Xbox 360 bundle, to be released May 20 for ¥24,800 ($265) in Japan.

The set includes a 60GB Xbox 360 with a D-connector HD cable, the game and a headset. It'll also include bonus Lost Planet content -- on a 2GB USB stick; taking advantage of the new Dashboard update that allows such drives to be used as 360 storage devices! This bonus seems destined to become a standard for special-edition Xbox 360 bundles.

JoystiqJapanese Lost Planet 2 Xbox bundle includes USB drive originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 01 Apr 2010 11:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bundlecapcomjapanlost-planetLost-Planet-2Lost-Planet-Extreme-ConditionMicrosoftrelease-dateusbusb-driveXbox-360Thu, 01 Apr 2010 11:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Joyswag: Get into the Lost Planet 2 multiplayer beta]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/31/get-into-the-lost-planet-2-multiplayer-beta/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/31/get-into-the-lost-planet-2-multiplayer-beta/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/31/get-into-the-lost-planet-2-multiplayer-beta/#comments Do you want early access to the Lost Planet 2 multiplayer beta? We're giving away codes -- ten for Xbox 360 owners and ten for PS3 owners -- to get early access to Capcom's upcoming online shooter. How do you enter? Simply join our Facebook page. Then, check the page beginning around 5PM ET for the entry form post. Once it's live, leave a comment on the Facebook post to enter the giveaway. Commenting on this post will NOT earn you an entry!

To enter this giveaway:
  • Join the Joystiq fan page on Facebook. At around 5PM ET, leave a comment on the entry form.
  • You must be 18 years or older and a resident of the US or Canada (excluding Quebec).
  • Limit 1 entry per person.
  • The entry period ends at 5:30PM ET on Wednesday, March 31.
  • At that time, we'll select 20 winners from the eligible commenters to receive a code for either the PS3 or Xbox 360 version of the Lost Planet 2 multiplayer beta. Prize has no cash value. Make sure your privacy settings allow for direct messages to receive a code.
  • For a list of complete rules, click here.
What is Joyswag? Since we don't keep the games and merchandise we receive for review or promotional purposes, it becomes "Joyswag," which is passed along to our readers. Please note that Joyswag may be in "used" condition. For more info on our policy, click here.

JoystiqJoyswag: Get into the Lost Planet 2 multiplayer beta originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 31 Mar 2010 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>facebookjoyswaglost-planet-2Wed, 31 Mar 2010 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Lost Planet 2 demo contains exclusive weapon usable in retail version]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/31/lost-planet-2-demo-contains-exclusive-weapon/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/31/lost-planet-2-demo-contains-exclusive-weapon/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/31/lost-planet-2-demo-contains-exclusive-weapon/#comments While previewing the competitive multiplayer mode of Lost Planet 2 yesterday, we confirmed with Capcom that the game's multiplayer demo (available now to some) will feature an exclusive weapon, the "MG SP," which will carry over to the final retail version of the game on Xbox 360 and PS3, provided there's a save file from the demo on the system. Playing the demo will be the only way to unlock the gun.

A Capcom representative said the MG SP could stagger opponents with a single shot and prevent them from squeezing off shots of their own with subsequent hits -- sounds useful. As if you needed any more incentive to try the free demo.

JoystiqLost Planet 2 demo contains exclusive weapon usable in retail version originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 31 Mar 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomdemolost-planet-2mg-spMicrosoftmultiplayerweaponXbox-360Wed, 31 Mar 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on: Lost Planet 2 multiplayer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/31/lost-planet-2-multiplayer-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/31/lost-planet-2-multiplayer-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/31/lost-planet-2-multiplayer-preview/#comments In advance of the April 21 and 22 releases of the Lost Planet 2 multiplayer demo on Xbox Live and PlayStation Network, respectively, I got in a few rounds of multiplayer on 4 of the game's maps yesterday; one of which will be playable in the demo. The map, "Turbulent Jungle," was my favorite of the bunch.

Before dropping into a match, I scoped out the various character customization screens in the build I was playing. When you fire up the game for the first time you'll be prompted to create your own character, which will be used in both the campaign (which supports single-player and co-op play) and in multiplayer. Everything you unlock, earn or otherwise collect in either portion of the game will carry over to the other. Trick out a particular weapon in online multiplayer and it'll be ready for use in single player.

Gallery: Lost Planet 2 (Multiplayer)

Continue reading Hands-on: Lost Planet 2 multiplayer

JoystiqHands-on: Lost Planet 2 multiplayer originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 31 Mar 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomlost-planetlost-planet-2Lost-Planet-Extreme-ConditionMicrosoftmultiplayerXbox-360Wed, 31 Mar 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lost Planet 2 trailers transform into view]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/30/lost-planet-2-trailers-transform-into-view/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/30/lost-planet-2-trailers-transform-into-view/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/30/lost-planet-2-trailers-transform-into-view/#comments
The official site for Capcom's Lost Planet 2 has updated with a pair of fresh trailers highlighting the bulky mechanical monsters the inhabitants of E.D.N. III use to get around. And to blow stuff up. And to look badass in while techno music plays in the background. And -- OK, the joke has run its course.

After checking out the above trailer, be sure to head past the break for a shorter, more refined look at those transforming Vital Suits -- unless your name is Kyle Reese, in which case we understand if you're not down with anything robotic.

Continue reading Lost Planet 2 trailers transform into view

JoystiqLost Planet 2 trailers transform into view originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 30 Mar 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomlost-planetLost-Planet-2Lost-Planet-Extreme-ConditionMicrosoftvideovital-suitXbox-360Tue, 30 Mar 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lost Planet 2 early access demo codes available now]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/30/lost-planet-2-early-access-demo-codes-available-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/30/lost-planet-2-early-access-demo-codes-available-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/30/lost-planet-2-early-access-demo-codes-available-now/#comments Last week, Capcom promised that its "most avid fans" would have a chance to receive early access to the upcoming Lost Planet 2 multiplayer demo. Now, the company has made good on that promise, offering up codes for both the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 versions of the demo. Of course, there is a catch, albeit a small one. In order to redeem a free code, you'll have to sign up for an account on the Lost Planet community site which, in turn, requires a Capcom-Unity membership as well.

Once you've joined Capcom-Unity, simply head over to this address, sign up for the community site and you'll receive a code for your preferred version of the demo. Keep in mind that the code won't work until March 31. Also, if you have trouble signing up or if you don't want to go through the trouble, keep your eye on Joystiq because we'll be giving away some codes of our own very soon.

JoystiqLost Planet 2 early access demo codes available now originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 30 Mar 2010 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomdemolost-planetLost-Planet-2Lost-Planet-Extreme-ConditionMicrosoftXbox-360Tue, 30 Mar 2010 15:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Lost Planet 2 multiplayer demo in April, retail release now May 11]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/26/lost-planet-2-multiplayer-demo-in-april-retail-release-now-may/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/26/lost-planet-2-multiplayer-demo-in-april-retail-release-now-may/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/26/lost-planet-2-multiplayer-demo-in-april-retail-release-now-may/#comments Capcom has announced that a multiplayer demo for Lost Planet 2 will arrive on Xbox Live and PlayStation Network on April 21 and 22, respectively. The demo will feature the Turbulent Jungle map and allow up to 16 players to duke it out online and track their stats. If you'd rather not wait until late April, Capcom has also announced it will be giving the demo away to its "most avid fans" starting next Wednesday, March 31. The press release doesn't say how or when the company will hand out the "community-distributed voucher codes" for the demo, though we'd say it's probably a good idea to keep your eyes on Capcom-Unity.

Finally, fans will definitely want to snag the demo, as it will unlock the Machine Gun SP -- which fires three shot bursts -- in the full version. Speaking of the retail release, Capcom has also announced that Lost Planet 2 will now launch on May 11, a week earlier than originally planned. The PC version will release this fall.

JoystiqLost Planet 2 multiplayer demo in April, retail release now May 11 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Mar 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomdemolost-planetLost-Planet-2Lost-Planet-Extreme-ConditionMicrosoftq2-2010release-dateXbox-360Fri, 26 Mar 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lost Planet 2 trailer gets big]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/08/lost-planet-2-trailer-gets-big/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/08/lost-planet-2-trailer-gets-big/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/08/lost-planet-2-trailer-gets-big/#commentsCapcom heralds "Kill Big" as the tagline for a new Lost Planet 2 trailer -- and you can certainly see why after the break. The trailer's full of big vehicles -- big trains and big helicopter things, all carrying big dudes with big guns and big armor, wearing big helmets with big cylindrical ears. Those big dudes are shooting their big guns at gigantic Akrid and sometimes manning big mechs too.

Everything about Lost Planet 2 is big, in fact -- except for Capcom's video player. It's merely okay-sized. Thankfully, we've got a reasonably-sized YouTube version. So, pick up your Big Gulp of Big Red and take a big sip as you give your mouse a big click to head past the break. And, if you're really big on Lost Planet, join the other obsessives in picking apart the trailer.

Continue reading Lost Planet 2 trailer gets big

JoystiqLost Planet 2 trailer gets big originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Mar 2010 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomlost-planetlost-planet-2Lost-Planet-Extreme-ConditionMicrosoftshooterXbox-360Mon, 08 Mar 2010 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Lost Planet 2's Wesker no longer a GameStop exclusive]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/25/lost-planet-2-wesker-no-longer-gamestop-exclusive/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/25/lost-planet-2-wesker-no-longer-gamestop-exclusive/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/25/lost-planet-2-wesker-no-longer-gamestop-exclusive/#comments You knew about life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, but now you can add "shooting bugs with Albert Wesker's giant handgun" to the list of inalienable rights. Capcom has just announced that, due to fan upheaval, Wesker as a playable character in Lost Planet 2 will be a bonus for everyone who buys the game, rather than for just those that pre-order at GameStop, as was previously announced.

It's not as if early birds are out of luck though. Pre-ordering at GameStop will now net you two multiplayer maps, "Helix" and "Back to the Island." The update from Capcom doesn't say as much, but we'd assume these maps will also be available for purchase as DLC, either on release day or soon after.

Gallery: Lost Planet 2 - Wesker Bonus Character

JoystiqLost Planet 2's Wesker no longer a GameStop exclusive originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Feb 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>albert-weskerbonuscapcomdlcgamestoplost-planetlost-planet-2Lost-Planet-Extreme-ConditionMicrosoftpre-orderXbox-360Thu, 25 Feb 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Takeuchi: Lost Planet 2 faced difficult content cuts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/18/takeuchi-lost-planet-2-faced-difficult-content-cuts/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/18/takeuchi-lost-planet-2-faced-difficult-content-cuts/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/18/takeuchi-lost-planet-2-faced-difficult-content-cuts/#comments When you finally play Lost Planet 2 after it launches on May 18, you'll explore and uncover more of the misplaced celestial orb than ever before -- but you won't see everything. In an interview with Japanese magazine Famitsu (transcript; Kotaku translation), producer Jun Takeuchi explained that, although development on the co-op shooter proceeded without trouble, a "significant" amount of content had to be cut before the final product took shape.

Takeuchi noted that "the edited content was way too much and dealing with that was more difficult than anything." Whether it was difficult to say goodbye or simply to get it to work in the first place is unclear, but it's a story that has become familiar as games grow in intricacy and developers share information with more candor. "This time, truly, the content that was cut was significant and at the end, we had to wrestle with disc space," he said.

Since the Xbox 360's DVD drive offers the least amount of storage space -- compared to the Blu-ray drive on the PlayStation 3 -- it's easiest to assume that disc space was the cause of the cut content, and not an additional issue. However, in a note to Joystiq, Capcom described the process as standard practice. "Editing the amount of content released with the final version of any game is a standard practice during game development. Edits to the initial concept of a game can come from a number of sources including the amount of time given to develop the title, hardware constraints, story elements, or other factors that can detract from the experience. We are confident that consumers will not be disappointed with Lost Planet 2 and the variety of massive Akrid, powerful vital suits, beautiful environments and deep level of customization included in the final product."

The final product may be expanded through DLC in the future (just like Assassin's Creed 2, which lost several sequences to a deadline), but for now Lost Planet 2's excised terrain will remain on ice.

JoystiqTakeuchi: Lost Planet 2 faced difficult content cuts originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 18 Feb 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomco-opjun-takeuchilost-planet-2MicrosoftshooterXbox-360Thu, 18 Feb 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[X10: Lost Planet 2 screens feature Marcus, Dom, and Wesker together]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/11/x10-lost-planet-2-screens-feature-marcus-dom-and-wesker-toget/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/11/x10-lost-planet-2-screens-feature-marcus-dom-and-wesker-toget/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/11/x10-lost-planet-2-screens-feature-marcus-dom-and-wesker-toget/#comments
click to lose yourself in the galleryIf you're a huge Resident Evil nerd and a huge Gears of War nerd (a nerd squared, if you will) and are considering pre-ordering Lost Planet 2 solely for fan service, your head is about to explode. In these latest screenshots out of X10, the downloadable Albert Wesker, Marcus, and Dom appear together for the first time.

It's like seeing all of your favorite Hanna-Barbera characters interacting with each other in the Laff-a-Lympics, except instead of Scooby-Doo and Yogi Bear, it's a bunch of giant dudes with guns.

Gallery: Lost Planet 2: Wesker/Marcus/Dom


JoystiqX10: Lost Planet 2 screens feature Marcus, Dom, and Wesker together originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Feb 2010 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>albert-weskercapcomgears-of-warlost-planet-2Microsoftpre-orderpre-order-bonusresident-evilshooterx10Xbox-360Thu, 11 Feb 2010 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Confirmed: Local split-screen co-op in Lost Planet 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/11/confirmed-local-splitscreen-co-op-in-lost-planet-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/11/confirmed-local-splitscreen-co-op-in-lost-planet-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/11/confirmed-local-splitscreen-co-op-in-lost-planet-2/#comments This week's Famitsu (via Andriasang) confirms Capcom's Lost Planet 2 will include offline split-screen co-op when it releases May 18. Series producer Jun Takeuchi told Joystiq last year at GamesCom that the developer was working on couch co-op for the game, which already features four player online co-op.

The split screen will reportedly be similar to Resident Evil 5's staggered screens, maintaining the aspect ratio and cutting down on the hardware requirements. So, go ahead and play Lost Planet 2 snuggled with a buddy on the couch or drinking beers with the spouse when it releases ... wait, reverse that.

Gallery: Lost Planet 2

JoystiqConfirmed: Local split-screen co-op in Lost Planet 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Feb 2010 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomco-opjun-takeuchilost-planetlost-planet-2Lost-Planet-Extreme-ConditionMicrosoftXbox-360Thu, 11 Feb 2010 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Lost Planet 2 action figures vs. your wallet]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/lost-planet-2-action-figures-vs-your-wallet/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/lost-planet-2-action-figures-vs-your-wallet/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/lost-planet-2-action-figures-vs-your-wallet/#comments
Capcom has inked a deal with Japanese toymaker collectibles purveyor Kotobukiya that will see the latter producing toys action figures based on the Variable Suits (i.e. power armor) featured in Lost Planet 2. Set to mech their debut in May, the two VS reproductions will retail for $39.99 each -- which seems pretty steep, until you consider just how detailed they actually are.

Both figures will stand 6" tall and feature more than 20 points of articulation, plus functioning canopies and -- taking a cue from the game -- removable, interchangeable heavy weapons. It'll be up to you to provide the appropriate sound effects. Check out slightly larger photos of the itty-bitty bots after the break.

Continue reading Lost Planet 2 action figures vs. your wallet

JoystiqLost Planet 2 action figures vs. your wallet originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Jan 2010 02:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-figurescapcomcollectibleskotobukiyalost-planetLost-Planet-2Lost-Planet-Extreme-ConditionMicrosofttoysXbox-360Fri, 29 Jan 2010 02:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Lost Planet 2 adds Gears of War's Marcus and Dom]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/26/lost-planet-2-adds-gears-of-wars-marcus-and-dom/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/26/lost-planet-2-adds-gears-of-wars-marcus-and-dom/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/26/lost-planet-2-adds-gears-of-wars-marcus-and-dom/#comments Capcom announced today that Marcus Fenix and Dom Whatshisface of Gears of War fame will have their grizzly visages added to Lost Planet 2 in the form of bonus costumes. (That's right, their love spans even dimensional rifts.) Romantic, sure, but it's not really much of a stretch, is it? Add a grappling hook to Marcus Fenix or a weirdly sexy lady leader to the Akrid and they're pretty much interchangeable, right?

If you'd like to see the gruff duo battling giant bugs -- but different giant bugs than the giant bugs they normally fight -- we've got a trailer for you after the break.

Continue reading Lost Planet 2 adds Gears of War's Marcus and Dom

JoystiqLost Planet 2 adds Gears of War's Marcus and Dom originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Jan 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomepicgears-of-warGears-of-war-2lost-planetLost-Planet-2Lost-Planet-Extreme-ConditionmicrosoftXbox-360Tue, 26 Jan 2010 11:00:00 EST