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[Super Stardust 'spiritual successor' coming to PlayStation 4]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/super-stardust-spiritual-successor-coming-to-playstation-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/super-stardust-spiritual-successor-coming-to-playstation-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/super-stardust-spiritual-successor-coming-to-playstation-4/#commentsSuper Stardust 'spiritual successor' coming to PlayStation 4 Finnish developer Housemarque announced today that it's working on a "spiritual successor" to the Super Stardust series for the PlayStation 4.

Housemarque's twin-stick shooter Super Stardust HD launched as a downloadable title during the PlayStation 3's first year of release. The company followed up with the PS3-exclusive zombie shooter Dead Nation and the multiplatform Outland, and made its PS Vita debut last year with Super Stardust Delta.

"We truly believe that better technology can lead to better gameplay," Housemarque's CEO Ilari Kuittinen explains. "The more tools and resources we have at our disposal, the better."

Kuittinen continues: "Think of Super Stardust HD: at the time, PlayStation 3 gave us the opportunity to populate the game with thousands of interactive objects and implement the game's famous 'spherical gameplay'. Today, we can take advantage of the architecture of PlayStation 4 to create incredible visuals with direct impact on the way the new game feels."

Housemarque additionally revealed that it is working on "another unannounced PS4 project." The company will announce further details regarding both games later this year.

JoystiqSuper Stardust 'spiritual successor' coming to PlayStation 4 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 May 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>housemarqueplaystationplaystation-4playstation-networkps3ps4psnSuper-Stardust-HDThu, 23 May 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony considers splitting the company after proposed IPO]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/sony-considers-splitting-the-company-after-proposed-ipo/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/sony-considers-splitting-the-company-after-proposed-ipo/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/sony-considers-splitting-the-company-after-proposed-ipo/#commentsSony considering splitting entertainment and business divisions Sony executives are considering splitting the company's entertainment and electronics divisions, following billionaire Daniel Loeb's proposed initial public offering of its entertainment business. The entertainment arm includes all PlayStation properties, alongside Sony's film and music businesses.

Loeb, with Third Point LLC, owns a 6 percent stake in Sony worth $1.1 billion, and is Sony's biggest investor. Sony CEO Kazuo Hirai confirmed that the top brass is considering Loeb's offer, but didn't say when it would come to a decision, Bloomberg reports.

"It's only a start," Hirai said. "It's important that the board will discuss this and come to a decision that represents Sony's stance." Following Loeb's offer yesterday, Sony stock surged 9 percent.

JoystiqSony considers splitting the company after proposed IPO originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 May 2013 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>entertainmentipokazuo-hiraiplaystationplaystation-4playstation-vitaps3ps4pspsonyvitaThu, 23 May 2013 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix announces 'live' E3 video shows]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/square-enix-announces-live-e3-video-shows/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/square-enix-announces-live-e3-video-shows/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/square-enix-announces-live-e3-video-shows/#comments
You know Nintendo Direct - now meet Square Enix Presents. That's the name of the company's live-at-E3 video series, which it'll be broadcasting via YouTube.

Square Enix Presents promises coverage on the company's E3 line-up, which is expected to include the new Final Fantasy for PS4. It'll also feature dev interviews, game demos, and presentations on upcoming content. And, apparently, lots of chocobo music.

The shows will run across all three main days of the conference, which are June 11-13.

JoystiqSquare Enix announces 'live' E3 video shows originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 May 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2013microsoftplaystationplaystation-4ps3ps4square-enixsquare-enix-presentsxboxThu, 23 May 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Destiny live-action trailer explores the law of the land]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/destiny/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/destiny/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/destiny/#comments

A new trailer for Destiny brings Bungie's new world into the live-action realm - with plenty of CG and story time with Breaking Bad's infamous villain. In the video, we learn about the law of the land in the upcoming, online-focused shooter, thanks to a passage from Rudyard Kipling's The Second Jungle Book.

Earlier this morning, Bungie sent Joystiq a copy of the classic story, featuring a highlighted passage detailing "The Law of the Jungle" and a note promising to see us at E3 2013. The video promises a "worldwide gameplay reveal" during Sony's E3 2013 press conference on June 10, 2013.

The passage from the book - as spoken in the trailer - reads: "Now this is the law of the jungle, as old and as true as the sky, And the wolf that shall keep it may prosper, but the wolf that shall break it must die. As the creeper that girdles the tree trunk, the law runneth forward and back; For the strength of the pack is the wolf, and the strength of the wolf is the pack." A fitting passage, considering Destiny's focus as an "always-on, persistent world adventure."

According to Variety, the ad - starring Giancarlo Esposito - was directed by Jon Favreau and produced by the ad shop 72 and Sunny, with visual effects from Digital Domain. Esposito and Favreau had previously worked together on the pilot of NBC's Revolution, which stars the standout boss figure from Breaking Bad. The ad will also be broadcast during Game 3 of the NBA Western Conference Finals on May 25.

Destiny is launching on the Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 in 2014.

Continue reading Destiny live-action trailer explores the law of the land

JoystiqDestiny live-action trailer explores the law of the land originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 May 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActivisionBungiedestinymicrosoftplaystationPlayStation-4ps3PS4xboxXbox-OneThu, 23 May 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Need for Speed Rivals floors it to Xbox One, PS4 'later this year', PC and current-gen consoles Nov. 19]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/need-for-speed-rivals-speeds-to-xbox-one-ps4-and-current-gen-this-november/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/need-for-speed-rivals-speeds-to-xbox-one-ps4-and-current-gen-this-november/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/need-for-speed-rivals-speeds-to-xbox-one-ps4-and-current-gen-this-november/#commentsNeed for Speed Rivals races to currentgen Nov 19 Xbox One and PS4 'later this year' Recently renamed developer Ghost Games and the fellow racing fanatics at Criterion Games have banded together for Need for Speed Rivals: a new game that represents the franchise's first drift into the next-gen console world (which is not to be confused with the 2005 handheld spinoff).

Powered by Frostbite 3, Rivals aims to utilize the power of the Xbox One and PlayStation 4 to give players "the freedom to seamlessly go from single player to co-op to multiplayer" when it releases "later this year." [Update: This story has been updated for accuracy, removing mention of a release window for the next-gen versions from an outdated release draft.]

Need for Speed Rivals transports players to the fictitious Redview County, an open-world environment where players can take on the role as either street racer or police officer. Like Most Wanted before it, racers aim to become the most infamous person behind the wheel, while cops attempt to work together to drive the area's high-risk inhabitants off the road. Players can personalize the experience with custom license plates, paint, liveries decals and rims, and performance upgrades.

Current-generation consoles will also join the rivalry - powered by its own version of Frostbite 3 - on November 19. A PC version is also in the works.

Gallery: Need for Speed: Rivals

Continue reading Need for Speed Rivals floors it to Xbox One, PS4 'later this year', PC and current-gen consoles Nov. 19

JoystiqNeed for Speed Rivals floors it to Xbox One, PS4 'later this year', PC and current-gen consoles Nov. 19 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 May 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CriterionCriterion-GamesEAGhost-Gamesmicrosoftneed-for-speed-rivalspcplaystationPlayStation-4ps3PS4xboxXbox-1Xbox-OneThu, 23 May 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dying Light adds a dash of Parkour to Techland's zombie tour]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/dying-light-adds-a-dash-of-parkour-to-techlands-zombie-tour/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/dying-light-adds-a-dash-of-parkour-to-techlands-zombie-tour/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/dying-light-adds-a-dash-of-parkour-to-techlands-zombie-tour/#commentsDying Light adds a dash of parkour to Techland's zombie tour Techland is keeping its zombie vendetta going in Dying Light, a new first-person action game coming to Xbox One, PlayStation 4, PC, PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 in 2014, care of Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment.

The ruined-world game hinges on a realistic day/night cycle, as well as the agility and Parkour skills of the protagonist turned traceur. Day is pitched as a preparation phase, in which you scavenge a warmly lit urban wasteland for supplies and craft weapons to fend off undead walkers. The night requires a stealthier approach, if not a swift homeward retreat from deadlier monsters.

Combat in Dying Light appears to be largely based on upgradeable melee weaponry (eg. an electrified machete), with bone-breaking blows triggering an x-ray visual effect. Zombies can also be pushed into spiked walls with a jump-kick to the chest.

The frequency of fighting drops once night arrives and faster, more powerful creatures emerge. These can be detected via an on-screen pulse - one of the abilities you have by virtue of being an infected human yourself. When the monsters of the night do give chase, the camera can quickly flip 180 degrees to show their proximity, even while you dash and vault in the opposite direction. Movement certainly appears to be more fluid than in Techland's Dead Island, with which Dying Light shares a theme of smashing zombies in the tropical sun.

The openness of the environment, overall game structure and the true nature of nightfall, the publisher says, are details left for another day.

Gallery: Dying Light (2013-05-23)

JoystiqDying Light adds a dash of Parkour to Techland's zombie tour originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 May 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014dying-lighte3-2013microsoftpcplaystationps3ps4techlandwarner-brosxboxxbox-onezombiesThu, 23 May 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Call of Duty: Ghosts confirmed for PS4]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/call-of-duty-ghosts-confirmed-for-ps4/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/call-of-duty-ghosts-confirmed-for-ps4/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/call-of-duty-ghosts-confirmed-for-ps4/#comments In formality news, developer Infinity Ward took to Twitter to confirm Call of Duty: Ghosts for the PS4, in addition to the PS3, Xbox One, Xbox 360, and PC. In related news, the death of announcements featuring the phrase "next-generation platforms" is blissfully upon us.

At the Xbox One event, Activision revealed it's continuing its exclusivity agreement with Microsoft on Call of Duty DLC. So, the one missing link regards Ghosts remains the Wii U, which Activision is staying quiet about.

JoystiqCall of Duty: Ghosts confirmed for PS4 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 May 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisioncall-of-duty-ghostsinfinity-wardplaystationps4Thu, 23 May 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Comparing next-gen Call of Duty dogs in Ghosts to MW3 dogs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/comparing-next-gen-call-of-duty-dogs-in-ghosts-to-mw3-dogs/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/comparing-next-gen-call-of-duty-dogs-in-ghosts-to-mw3-dogs/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/comparing-next-gen-call-of-duty-dogs-in-ghosts-to-mw3-dogs/#comments
With the next generation of the Call of Duty engine, Activision studios will be able to produce curved objects with realism never before seen in the series. In layman's terms, that means the dogs will look really good - just look at Ghost Dog compared to MW3 Dog. Woof!

JoystiqComparing next-gen Call of Duty dogs in Ghosts to MW3 dogs originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisioncall-of-duty-ghostsinfinity-wardmicrosoftplaystationplaystation-4ps3ps4xboxxbox-oneWed, 22 May 2013 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox One, PS4 game box art appears on Battlefield 4 site]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/xbox-one-game-box-art-appears-on-battlefield-4-site/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/xbox-one-game-box-art-appears-on-battlefield-4-site/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/xbox-one-game-box-art-appears-on-battlefield-4-site/#commentsXbox One, PS4 game box art appears on Battlefield 4 site Are these the designs for Xbox One and PS4 game covers? The images come via the official Battlefield 4 site, where they're pictured prominently on a couple of pages. They may just be EA mock-ups - no other companies, including Microsoft and Sony, have released any images - but maybe they are the real deal. We reckon they look elegantly crisp.

JoystiqXbox One, PS4 game box art appears on Battlefield 4 site originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-4box-artEAmicrosoftplaystationps4sonyxboxxbox-onexbox-revealWed, 22 May 2013 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PS4 E3 teaser video boxes it all up [Update: Close-up shots capped]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/ps4-e3-teaser-video-boxes-it-all-up/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/ps4-e3-teaser-video-boxes-it-all-up/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/ps4-e3-teaser-video-boxes-it-all-up/#comments

Sony's official E3 teaser video shows a blurry, black box. Is this the future of gaming, also known as Cube?

Sony's E3 conference takes place in Los Angeles on June 10 at 6 p.m. PT. Perhaps we'll get a clearer idea of what the PS4 looks like at that time, along with a price and release date. Right now we have "Holiday 2013," a timeframe that Sony settled on when it announced the PS4 in February.

Microsoft is prepping to reveal its own next-gen console - the new Xbox - tomorrow, May 21, at 10 a.m. PT. We'll have live coverage of that event.

Update: Joystiq reader rcoutant points us to an imgur album of the PS4 hardware in focus and really close-up, pulled right from the video.

JoystiqPS4 E3 teaser video boxes it all up [Update: Close-up shots capped] originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 May 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2013playstation-4ps4SONYMon, 20 May 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Take a peek at Diablo 3's new menu system, controls for PS3/PS4]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/take-a-peek-at-diablo-3s-new-menu-system-controls-for-ps3-ps4/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/take-a-peek-at-diablo-3s-new-menu-system-controls-for-ps3-ps4/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/take-a-peek-at-diablo-3s-new-menu-system-controls-for-ps3-ps4/#comments
John Hight, who serves as Production Director on Diablo 3, says the most exciting thing about the PS4, in Blizzard's eyes, is the controller. "This is not a mouse, this is something different for us," Blizzard Senior System Designer Jason Bender says of the DualShock 4. "Working on a console version of Diablo 3, for us that means the controller is king," Lead Console Designer Josh Mosqueira adds.

The use of both analog sticks comes from a perceived player expectation on Blizzard's part - players will just expect to be able to do that with a console controller, Mosqueira says. The console versions of Diablo 3 on PS3 and PS4 will feature an evasion roll technique not available on PC.

The trackpad is demonstrated in the video above, sorting through a player's inventory in the new radial-style interface. "We really built our inventory screens and the UI system from the ground up," says Mosqueira. Another new ability is quick equip - at any time, players can press up on the dpad to cycle through the last few acquired items and equip any of them.

JoystiqTake a peek at Diablo 3's new menu system, controls for PS3/PS4 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 May 2013 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardDiablo-3dualshock-4playstationplaystation-4ps3ps4Thu, 16 May 2013 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Assassin's Creed 4 retailer pre-order bonuses revealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/assassins-creed-4-retailer-pre-order-bonuses-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/assassins-creed-4-retailer-pre-order-bonuses-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/assassins-creed-4-retailer-pre-order-bonuses-revealed/#commentsAssassin's Creed 4 preorder bonuses, y'all Though Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag launches later this year, North American retailers are vying for your dollars today by announcing a slew of retailer-specific pre-order bonuses.

GameStop has the 'Black Island' pack, which includes the deadly black ship, a Captain Morgan costume and his silver flintlock pistol. Amazon.com will offer the 'Hidden Mystery' pack, an extra treasure-hunting mission on Mystery Island, Stede Bonnet's ship and Sted Bonnet costumes and multiplayer items. Walmart gets the 'Sacrificed Secrets' pack, a collection centered around Captain Drake that includes his dual-wield swords and pistols, plus his picture, title and relics. Best Buy has the 'Lost Treasures' pack, an ivory wheel and spyglass relic, and Target gets the 'Trove of Mystery' pack, which includes an iron wheel and astrolab relic.

Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag launches on the PS3, Xbox 360, Wii U and PC on October 29. Next-generation console ports of Assassin's Creed 4 are also planned. All UK pre-orders get access to "The Watch" app.

JoystiqAssassin's Creed 4 retailer pre-order bonuses revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 May 2013 21:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonassassins-creed-4-black-flagbest-buygamestopmicrosoftnext-xboxnintendopcplaystationplaystation-4preorderps3ps4targetubisoftwalmartwii-uxboxWed, 15 May 2013 21:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony America trademarks 'Greatness Awaits,' points to PS4 slogan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/sony-america-trademarks-greatness-awaits-points-to-ps4-slogan/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/sony-america-trademarks-greatness-awaits-points-to-ps4-slogan/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/sony-america-trademarks-greatness-awaits-points-to-ps4-slogan/#commentsSony America trademarks 'Greatness Awaits,' points to PS4 slogan Sony's slogan for the PS4 may be "Greatness Awaits," based on a recent trademark and a purported ad leak. It's emerged Sony Computer Entertainment America trademarked the term last week, just ahead of next month's E3 conference. That on its own doesn't mean much, but it backs up Siliconera's prior report of a leaked script for a PS4 ad, with the term used as a slogan for the upcoming console.

The script, which Siliconera has in full, certainly resembles PlayStation's unique brand of surreal, high-octane advertising. It features a man walking down a road, talking at the camera and demanding the viewer not to be ordinary, afraid, or a slave to the past.

Around him buildings appear "increasingly damaged," and the scene grows more chaotic as windows break apart, two people covered in yellow paint sprint past him, and eventually a crowd of followers fall in line behind him. It even features a "homemade flag [sic] painted with the icon from Destiny" being unfurled out of a window, and a "giant spacecraft from Killzone" flying overhead.

The ad closes with the man saying, "Who are you to deny greatness? If you would deny it to yourself, you deny it to the entire world... And we will not be denied."

Then the words 'Greatness Awaits' appear on screen, followed or joined by 'PlayStation.'

We've reached out to Sony for comment.

JoystiqSony America trademarks 'Greatness Awaits,' points to PS4 slogan originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 May 2013 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>greatness-awaitsplaystationps4sonySony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericatrademarkWed, 15 May 2013 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[War Thunder takes flight on PS4 this holiday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/war-thunder-takes-flight-on-ps4-this-holiday/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/war-thunder-takes-flight-on-ps4-this-holiday/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/war-thunder-takes-flight-on-ps4-this-holiday/#comments
Gaijin Entertainment - not to be confused with Bit.Trip series developer Gaijin Games - is preparing a PS4 version of War Thunder for launch this holiday season. War Thunder is Gaijin's free-to-play online WWII vehicular combat game, currently in open beta on the PC.

"The power of PS4 will allow developers to include improved head-tracking system, easier socializing tools, smart and easy options to record, stream and share homemade gameplay videos and will have full support of PlayStation Cloud," the press release past the break confirms. Nothing is mentioned regarding whether this will also be free-to-play on PS4, so we've inquired with Gaijin Entertainment for further details.

War Thunder has over 1.5 million players on the PC and Gaijin Entertainment is currently working on a version for mobile devices.

Continue reading War Thunder takes flight on PS4 this holiday

JoystiqWar Thunder takes flight on PS4 this holiday originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 May 2013 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>free-to-playgaijin-entertainmentplaystation-4ps4war-thunderTue, 14 May 2013 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: 'PS4 E3' video shows the console in the eyes of the beholder [Update: It's fake]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/rumor-ps4-e3-video-shows-the-console-in-the-eyes-of-the-behol/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/rumor-ps4-e3-video-shows-the-console-in-the-eyes-of-the-behol/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/rumor-ps4-e3-video-shows-the-console-in-the-eyes-of-the-behol/#comments

This could be the first glimpse of Sony's PlayStation 4 console and a look at the next generation of designer contact lens trends. This video contains the correct amount of blaring electronica for an E3 presentation, but we've reached out to Sony to clarify if it is, in fact, legitimate.

Sony announced the PS4 in February, but has yet to show off the console itself. Microsoft, Sony's next-gen competitor, is preparing to reveal its new Xbox on May 21.

Update: A Sony spokesperson tells Joystiq, "We don't comment on rumors or speculation." Other outlets have received confirmation that the ad is indeed fake. That doesn't mean it's not pretty.

JoystiqRumor: 'PS4 E3' video shows the console in the eyes of the beholder [Update: It's fake] originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 May 2013 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3e3-2013playstation-4ps4SONYMon, 13 May 2013 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Watch Dogs multiplayer mode will have element of invasion]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/watch-dogs-multiplayer-mode-will-have-element-of-invasion/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/watch-dogs-multiplayer-mode-will-have-element-of-invasion/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/watch-dogs-multiplayer-mode-will-have-element-of-invasion/#commentsWatch Dogs multiplayer mode will have element of invasion The multiplayer component of Watch Dogs will have an element of player invasion, though its overall extent and direction has yet to be described by Ubisoft. Dominic Guay, Senior Producer at Ubisoft Montreal, insisted that the game can be played "completely offline if you want." (Expect to hear that protection phrase often in the wake of SimCity.)

In multiplayer, Watch Dogs will use the near-future version of Chicago just as it is in single-player. "We are not making any compromises in terms of dynamism or interactivity," Guay said at a San Francisco press event earlier this week. Connecting with other players will be seamless in the developer's attempt "to start breaching the wall in action-adventure between single- and multiplayer."

As an example of how players will commandeer elements of the city in play, Guay pointed to the E3 2012 demonstration of Watch Dogs: it concluded with another character hacking the protagonist's phone to plant a virus. In February, the game made an appearance at the PlayStation 4 unveiling event, and there the player was watched by someone who had hacked the local security cameras. Is there an apt term for someone who engages in voyeurism ... vicariously?

Guay also discussed the "mobile extension" of Watch Dogs, a companion app that's been in development for more than a year alongside the primary game. You'll be able to play some form of Watch Dogs on your smartphone, and interact with console players running around their respective cities. Doing so from the real Chicago, wearing your finest trench coat, will likely generate a cosplay singularity.

JoystiqWatch Dogs multiplayer mode will have element of invasion originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 10 May 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dominic-guaymicrosoftmultiplayernintendopcplaystationplaystation-4ps3ps4ubisoft-montrealwatch-dogswii-uxboxFri, 10 May 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony, Microsoft going 'heavily' on free-to-play next-gen, says Epic VP Rein]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/sony-microsoft-going-heavily-on-free-to-play-next-gen-says-e/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/sony-microsoft-going-heavily-on-free-to-play-next-gen-says-e/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/sony-microsoft-going-heavily-on-free-to-play-next-gen-says-e/#comments Sony and Microsoft are telling developers they're "going heavily" on free-to-play and in-app purchasing models with their next-gen consoles, according to Epic Games VP Mark Rein. Speaking in a roundtable discussion at the UK's Game Horizon conference, Rein said both companies will take on the kinds of financial models seen on mobile devices.

"The next-gen consoles are going to be fully embracing the free-to-play and these IAP-type business models," Rein told the audience, "So in case you don't know that I'm putting that out there. Sony and Microsoft are both going heavily in that area."

Roundtable chair Matt Martin of GamesIndustry International said that's what both platform holders are saying, but that "we still need to see some kind of evidence."

Rein replied, "Well, I'm telling you. I'm telling you what they're telling developers."

Continue reading Sony, Microsoft going 'heavily' on free-to-play next-gen, says Epic VP Rein

JoystiqSony, Microsoft going 'heavily' on free-to-play next-gen, says Epic VP Rein originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 May 2013 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epic-gamesfree-to-playgame-horizon-2013mark-reinmicrosoftnext-xboxps4shuhei-yoshidasonyThu, 09 May 2013 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Yoshida: Sony did not consider an always-on PS4]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/yoshida-sony-did-not-consider-an-always-on-ps4/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/yoshida-sony-did-not-consider-an-always-on-ps4/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/yoshida-sony-did-not-consider-an-always-on-ps4/#commentsSony never considered an alwayson PS4 The PS4 won't require an "always-on" internet connection, and it was never going to need one, Sony President of Worldwide Studios Shuhei Yoshida told Game Informer (via Gamespot).

"Did we consider it? No, we didn't consider it," Yoshida said. "The main reason being that many countries don't have robust Internet connections. It makes sense for people to have Internet connections to play online games, but for offline games there are many countries that we saw [that] do not really have robust Internet."

Fair point. Yoshida previously confirmed an offline mode in terms of the PS4's social and sharing features, saying, "Oh yes, yes, you can go offline totally. Social is big for us, but we understand there are some people who are anti-social. So if you don't want to connect to anyone else, you can do that." Developers, too, will be able to limit which aspects of their games players can share with the world.

Sony's major next-gen competitor, Microsoft, is set to reveal its new console on May 21. The latest internal memo regarding the next Xbox's online functionality says that some features should "just work" whether a player is on- or offline.

JoystiqYoshida: Sony did not consider an always-on PS4 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>always-onInternetnext-gennext-xboxplaystation-4ps4SONYxbox-nextWed, 08 May 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[IGF finalist Hohokum launching next year for PS4, PS3, PS Vita]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/igf-finalist-hohokum-launching-next-year-for-ps4-ps3-ps-vita/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/igf-finalist-hohokum-launching-next-year-for-ps4-ps3-ps-vita/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/igf-finalist-hohokum-launching-next-year-for-ps4-ps3-ps-vita/#commentsIGF finalist Hohokum launching next year for PS4, PS3, PS Vita Sony Santa Monica is working with artist Richard Hogg and Frobisher Says! developer Honeyslug to produce Hohokum, an upcoming title for the PlayStation 4, PS3, and PS Vita.

Hogg describes Hohokum as a "whimsical colorful game with an emphasis on playful exploration and creativity." Players control a wormish, kite-like flying creature as they navigate a virtual playground and ferry around its inhabitants. It resembles Keita Takahashi's Noby Noby Boy in premise, and Hogg notes that the experience is free from the "usual pressures" common to video games, such as persistent hand-holding and failure states.

Hohokum was named as a finalist in the Excellence in Visual Arts category of 2011's Independent Games Festival. Hogg expects the game to launch in 2014.

Gallery: Hohokum

JoystiqIGF finalist Hohokum launching next year for PS4, PS3, PS Vita originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 May 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hohokumhoneyslugindieplaystationplaystation-4playstation-vitaps3ps4sceascea-santa-monicavitaTue, 07 May 2013 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Yoshida: PS4 share function can be disabled by developers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/yoshida-ps4-share-function-can-be-disabled-by-developers/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/yoshida-ps4-share-function-can-be-disabled-by-developers/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/yoshida-ps4-share-function-can-be-disabled-by-developers/#commentsYoshida PS4 share function can be disabled by developers Sony worldwide studios president Shuhei Yoshida recently elaborated on the use and origin of the Dual Shock 4 controller's share button, one of the noteworthy features coming to the PlayStation 4. Namely, Yoshida noted in an interview with Japanese site 4Gamer (translated by Edge) that the share button will be limited to whatever use developers will allow.

"There will be parts of a game that the maker does not want people to be able to see," Yoshida said. "For example, on Vita, developers can in certain scenes disable the feature that lets users take a screenshot, and [the Share function] will have a similar mechanism. The creator may not want to make video of the final boss sharable, for instance."

Yoshida said his desire to see an accessible video sharing function come to life on the PS4 stemmed from his desire to play Dark Souls "all day long," which resulted in him watching videos of others playing the game since he was too busy.

JoystiqYoshida: PS4 share function can be disabled by developers originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 May 2013 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Cherdual-shock-4playstation-4ps4ps4-shareshareshuhei-yoshidaMon, 06 May 2013 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GameStop confirms the end of PS2 trade-ins, still selling games and accessories]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/gamestop-confirms-the-end-of-ps2-trade-ins-still-selling-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/gamestop-confirms-the-end-of-ps2-trade-ins-still-selling-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/gamestop-confirms-the-end-of-ps2-trade-ins-still-selling-games/#comments GameStop's corporate office has confirmed yesterday's news that all US locations will stop accepting any PlayStation 2-related trade-ins. GameStop also clarified in a statement to Engadget that PS2 games, accessories and systems will still be sold at its stores for "several months" until the remaining stock runs out. GameStop's statement reads:

"We can confirm that as of June 1st we will no longer be accepting the PS2 console or its related product for trades. We know that the 12 year old system is a popular one and for many gamers, GameStop is the only place to find a great selection of its games. We will still offer a wide selection of the PS2 hardware, accessories and games in many of our stores and online for several months, based on remaining stock from trades. We are very excited about the upcoming PS4 and are making room in our stores for it and other new platforms expected this fall."

JoystiqGameStop confirms the end of PS2 trade-ins, still selling games and accessories originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 May 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamestopplaystation-2ps2ps4sonytrade-inMon, 06 May 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Watch Dogs dev diary boasts denser Chicago for PS4]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/03/watch-dogs-dev-diary-boasts-denser-chicago-for-ps4/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/03/watch-dogs-dev-diary-boasts-denser-chicago-for-ps4/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/03/watch-dogs-dev-diary-boasts-denser-chicago-for-ps4/#comments
Sure, the PS4 version of Watch Dogs will be prettier than the current-gen ports, but it'll also have a denser, busier city. Senior producer Dominic Guay promises "the same game experience, but basically magnified" on the PS4.

JoystiqWatch Dogs dev diary boasts denser Chicago for PS4 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 May 2013 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstation-4ps4ubisoftwatch-dogsFri, 03 May 2013 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Silent Enemy teaser designs some bullies]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/silent-enemy-teaser-designs-some-bullies/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/silent-enemy-teaser-designs-some-bullies/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/silent-enemy-teaser-designs-some-bullies/#comments
The next project from Papo & Yo developer Minority, Silent Enemy, tackles another sensitive topic: bullying. Many of the developers were bullied and that history affected the design and development of SIlent Enemy.

JoystiqSilent Enemy teaser designs some bullies originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 May 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidiosipadiphoneminoritymobileouyapcplaystation-4ps4silent-enemyWed, 01 May 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EscapeVektor dev Nnooo working on PS4, Vita game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/escapevektor-dev-nnooo-working-on-ps4-vita-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/escapevektor-dev-nnooo-working-on-ps4-vita-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/escapevektor-dev-nnooo-working-on-ps4-vita-game/#comments Australian studio Nnooo is working on a new game for the PlayStation 4 and Vita. The EscapeVektor dev announced the news today after receiving PS4 developer approval.

"It's exciting to be developing for a new generation of consoles," said Creative Director Nic Watt. "We're delighted to get early access to PS4 development kits so we can get our games on the console as quickly as possible."

Nnooo says it's bringing the new game to other platforms too, and while Nnooo didn't specify them they'll almost certainly include at least one of the Wii U and 3DS. Nnooo bills itself as a studio making games for Nintendo and Sony platforms, while Business Director Bruce Thomson tweeted this morning its game will head "Nintendo-side" at some point.

"We're still at an early stage of development of our new game," said Watt. "We don't want to announce anything until we are more advanced with the project. Hopefully we'll be able to say something about it around the middle of the year."

Continue reading EscapeVektor dev Nnooo working on PS4, Vita game

JoystiqEscapeVektor dev Nnooo working on PS4, Vita game originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Apr 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nintendonnoooplaystationplaystation-vitaps4vitaFri, 26 Apr 2013 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Be an old-school creep in Thief]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/04/be-an-old-school-creep-in-thief/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/04/be-an-old-school-creep-in-thief/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/04/be-an-old-school-creep-in-thief/#comments Eidos Montreal's next-gen take on Thief will cater those who prefer their pickpocketing to be nice, quiet and devoid of visual noise.

According to Thief's Lead Level Designer, Daniel Windfeld Schmidt, the game will feature an old-school mode of sorts. Activating it will disable elements on the heads-up display and tone down master thief Garrett's special abilities. If you want to sneak through unseen - sans notifications, contextual helpers and slow-motion swipes - this will be the way to do it.

With modern recording and social sharing capabilities, you'll even be able to prove you finished the game ... without alerting anyone.

JoystiqBe an old-school creep in Thief originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Apr 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>daniel-windfeld-schmidteidos-montrealpcplaystation-4ps4thief-2014thief-4Thu, 04 Apr 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PS4 'Elemental' demo of Unreal Engine 4 gets an extension]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/30/ps4-elemental-demo-of-unreal-engine-4-gets-an-extension/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/30/ps4-elemental-demo-of-unreal-engine-4-gets-an-extension/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/30/ps4-elemental-demo-of-unreal-engine-4-gets-an-extension/#comments
In addition to the new 'Infiltrator' video, Epic Games brought to GDC an extended version of the PS4 'Elemental' demo highlighting its Unreal Engine 4 engine, the demo first shown at the console's reveal event. You can now see two more minutes of Epic's next-gen engine running in real-time on Sony's next-gen console.

JoystiqPS4 'Elemental' demo of Unreal Engine 4 gets an extension originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 30 Mar 2013 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epic-gamesgdc-2013playstationps4sonyunreal-engine-4Sat, 30 Mar 2013 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Primal Carnage: Genesis unchained in new trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/primal-carnage-genesis-unchained-in-new-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/primal-carnage-genesis-unchained-in-new-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/primal-carnage-genesis-unchained-in-new-trailer/#comments

Primal Carnage: Genesis, which was announced this week for PlayStation 4 and PC, utilizes the Unreal Engine 4. This was the game's trailer featured behind closed doors at the Epic presentation of the new engine.

Continue reading Primal Carnage: Genesis unchained in new trailer

JoystiqPrimal Carnage: Genesis unchained in new trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Mar 2013 19:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lukewarm-mediapcprimal-carnage-genesisps4Fri, 29 Mar 2013 19:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Unreal Engine 4 'Infiltrator' video]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/unreal-engine-4-infiltrator-video-tech-details/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/unreal-engine-4-infiltrator-video-tech-details/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/unreal-engine-4-infiltrator-video-tech-details/#comments
Here's the Unreal Engine 4 "Infiltrator" video, which was shown off as a demo this week at GDC, displaying the power of Epic's latest tech. The company jumped through different filters to show the demo was being rendered in real-time. Yes, it will run so many major titles for next-gen systems. Now, enjoy.

JoystiqUnreal Engine 4 'Infiltrator' video originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epicepic-gamespcps4ue4unreal-engine-4Fri, 29 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PS4 project from Paradox won't attempt 'cheap PC port']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/ps4-project-from-paradox-wont-attempt-cheap-pc-port/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/ps4-project-from-paradox-wont-attempt-cheap-pc-port/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/ps4-project-from-paradox-wont-attempt-cheap-pc-port/#comments Gordon Van Dyke teases Paradox's PlayStation 4 projectSpeaking to Joystiq at GDC, Paradox Senior Producer Gordon Van Dyke offered a few hints as to what shape the company's PlayStation 4 project may take. "There's something in the works - I can't say yet, but we are looking into it."

Van Dyke pointed to a recent addition in War of the Roses, an online medieval battle game that he oversees. "Obviously we've added controller support [to War of the Roses], there's a proof-of-concept that definitely works." Of course, this doesn't necessarily mean War of the Roses is coming to PS4 - in fact, Van Dyke said Paradox still isn't sure what exactly it wants to do on PS4 yet.

"We first need to make sure we can get the game running on the hardware, but the hardware is much more easier to work with than it was previously when I was at DICE on Battlefield, where there were struggles with Sony's hardware - especially the way they allocated memory. They've eliminated a lot of these hurdles [on PS4] and x86 makes it much more plausible that we can do it."

For now, "it's definitely a realistic possibility and something we'd like to happen, but we're not entirely sure we can deliver on that." He said it's a bit of an inverse scenario for Paradox, where the developer wants to ensure its PS4 game isn't interpreted as "a cheap PC port on console."

JoystiqPS4 project from Paradox won't attempt 'cheap PC port' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Mar 2013 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gdc-2013gordon-van-dykeparadoxParadox-Interactiveplaystation-4ps4war-of-the-rosesThu, 28 Mar 2013 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation 4 uses both real names and PSN handles, DualShock 4 charges in standby]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/27/playstation-4-uses-both-real-names-and-psn-handles-dualshock-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/27/playstation-4-uses-both-real-names-and-psn-handles-dualshock-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/27/playstation-4-uses-both-real-names-and-psn-handles-dualshock-4/#comments
Chris Norden, Senior Staff Engineer at Sony, just concluded a talk about development on PS4 here at GDC. While mostly aimed at the improvements to the development environment over its predecessor, Norden also offered some interesting factoids for those of us lacking the know-how to create games. For example, the upgraded Blu-ray drive spins discs at three times the speed of PS3.

Norden's talk didn't offer much on the PS4 architecture that we didn't already know, but he elaborated on the DualShock 4 and PS4 Eye peripherals. The DualShock 4 features enhanced dual vibration over the DualShock 3, with lower latency and reduced dead zone - the area surrounding the center point on the analog sticks where the console doesn't pick up input.

Unlike the PS3 buttons, the face buttons, L1, and R1 on the DS4 are digital. DualShock 4 controllers will also charge now when the system is in standby mode - not possible with the DualShock 3 on the PS3 - and he said every PS4 will include a headset in the box, another thing Sony avoided with the PS3.

The new ID system was also demonstrated, where each PS4 player will have two identities. There's obviously the requisite online handle, but also true names for friends pulled from Facebook and through true name search on PSN. By default, true names will not be displayed.

Finally, Norden said that per the PlayStation 4's ability to capture game footage and share online, the system itself will automatically record your last few minutes of gameplay at all times. If you did something interesting or impressive by accident, you can hit the Share button and retrieve that footage; each clip is broken down into chapters that are labeled right in the video editor suite.

JoystiqPlayStation 4 uses both real names and PSN handles, DualShock 4 charges in standby originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Mar 2013 16:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chris-nordendualshock-4gdc-2013playstation-4playstation-4-eyeps4ps4-eyeWed, 27 Mar 2013 16:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlefield 4 confirmed to launch this fall]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/27/battlefield-4-confirmed-to-launch-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/27/battlefield-4-confirmed-to-launch-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/27/battlefield-4-confirmed-to-launch-this-fall/#comments

Battlefield 4 was officially announced this evening, coming in the fall to PC, PS3 and Xbox 360. The game runs on Frostbite 3. It's been a weird road since Battlefield 4's unceremonious reveal in July 2012, where it was part of a pre-order bonus for Medal of Honor: Warfighter. Two EA military franchises enter, one survives a year later.

Pre-orders from any retailer receive the Premium expansion pack, while Origin pre-orders get the Digital Deluxe version that includes the game, the Premium expansion, access to the multiplayer beta and some bonus in-game items. Check out the first official in-game footage above.

JoystiqBattlefield 4 confirmed to launch this fall originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Mar 2013 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-4diceeaelectronic-artspcps4Wed, 27 Mar 2013 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Watch Dogs trailer shows us how to make money in the future]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/watch-dogs-trailer-shows-us-how-to-make-money-in-the-future/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/watch-dogs-trailer-shows-us-how-to-make-money-in-the-future/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/watch-dogs-trailer-shows-us-how-to-make-money-in-the-future/#comments
The most odd thing about this latest Watch Dogs trailer is that, if they know exactly how protagonist Aiden Pearce is stealing peoples' bank information, why can't they just stop him? Must be the trench coat.

JoystiqWatch Dogs trailer shows us how to make money in the future originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Mar 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftpcplaystationplaystation-4ps3ps4ubisoftwatch-dogsxboxTue, 26 Mar 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony open to buy-in alpha games for PlayStation platforms]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/sony-open-to-buy-in-alpha-games-for-playstation-platforms/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/sony-open-to-buy-in-alpha-games-for-playstation-platforms/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/sony-open-to-buy-in-alpha-games-for-playstation-platforms/#comments Sony open to buyinalpha games titles still in developmentSony's flexibility with indie developers - something it's been driving home for a little while now - also extends to the concept of buy-in-alpha games. It's a concept that's gained acceptance after the wild success of Minecraft and we were curious if Sony was open to the idea, particularly after Steam announced its "early access" program.

"Yeah, if it doesn't have any bugs that are completely destroying the world," Adam Boyes, VP of publisher and developer relations at Sony America told Joystiq last night at the PlayStation Indie Arcade event. "[CCP's Dust 514] is a great example of putting out content that you know is not final. If you want to monetize it, that's fine. I mean, if you want to put out a game that's playable and does pass the checklists and stuff, you can. If it doesn't sell and you can't support, you may not want to support, but we absolutely support that."

Boyes noted the buy-in alpha openness wasn't just for the upcoming PlayStation 4, but could be applied to PS3, Vita or PlayStation mobile.

He continued, "We allow that on all of our platforms, that sort of continually updating and selling. Again, if people buy it and they're passionate about it, and you want to improve it and make it better over time you can."

JoystiqSony open to buy-in alpha games for PlayStation platforms originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Mar 2013 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mobileplaystationplaystation-vitaps3ps4vitaTue, 26 Mar 2013 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Primal Carnage: Genesis for PS4]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/primal-carnage-genesis-for-ps4/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/primal-carnage-genesis-for-ps4/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/primal-carnage-genesis-for-ps4/#comments Primal Carnage Genesis for PS4Built in Unreal 4, Primal Carnage: Genesis for PS4 was just announced at the Sony Indie Arcade event.

The game is described as a "story driven, episodic single player adventure." It's very different from the original Primal Carnage, which was a class-based shooter of humans vs. dinosaurs.

The game is currently expected for PlayStation 4 and PC.

Update: "We're going to shoot for being a launch title," said Ashton Anderson, founder and lead designer at Lukewarm Media mentioned at the event. "We're definitely going to be a launch title." He tells us the game will launch on PS4 first, with the PC version showing up two to three months later.

Gallery: Primal Carnage: Genesis (Reveal)

JoystiqPrimal Carnage: Genesis for PS4 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Mar 2013 21:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lukewarm-mediapcprimal-carnage-genesisps4Mon, 25 Mar 2013 21:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Blacklight Retribution announced for PS4, first Pub Fund game for platform]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/blacklight-retribution-announced-for-ps4-first-pub-fund-game-fo/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/blacklight-retribution-announced-for-ps4-first-pub-fund-game-fo/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/blacklight-retribution-announced-for-ps4-first-pub-fund-game-fo/#comments
At a PlayStation Indie Arcade event, Blacklight Retribution has been announced for the PlayStation 4. Developed by Zombie Studios, it is the first game from Sony's Pub Fund for the platform.

Although no pricing was announced at the Sony event, Blacklight Retribution is a free-to-play shooter that arrived on PC last year.

Update: Jared Gerritzen, studio head of Zombie Studios, tells Joystiq the game will be free to play on PlayStation 4 as well.

Continue reading Blacklight Retribution announced for PS4, first Pub Fund game for platform

JoystiqBlacklight Retribution announced for PS4, first Pub Fund game for platform originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Mar 2013 21:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blacklight-retributionps4zombie-studiosMon, 25 Mar 2013 21:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag unveils gameplay trailer, collector's editions]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/assassins-creed-4-black-flag-unveils-gameplay-trailer-collect/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/assassins-creed-4-black-flag-unveils-gameplay-trailer-collect/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/assassins-creed-4-black-flag-unveils-gameplay-trailer-collect/#comments
Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag is shaking its booty today with a new gameplay trailer, and the unveiling of five different collector's editions to plunder; one for North America, and four for EMEA territories - that's Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Ubisoft also revealed a VIP pre-order program bonus for the UK and Ireland.

As for North America, Ubisoft has the GameStop Edition which includes the 'Black Island Pack,' which offers a few in-game items to fill your boots with. It includes the Black Island quest, the Black Ship, Captain Morgan's silver flintlock pistols, and multiplayer items that include the good cap's costume, picture, and title. If you're after something more physical, GameStop pre-orders also bundle in a Todd McFarlane-designed collectible poster.

Now onto the EMEA region, where the biggest treasure trove is the Black Chest edition, only obtainable via Ubisoft's Uplay service. It includes - take a deep breath - a 55cm Captain Edward diorama, an exclusive steelbook, an artbook, a soundtrack, two lithographs, two canvas prints, all "existing additional" in-game content that can be unlocked, a collector's box, parchment world map, and an "original Black Flag replica" - and breathe.

If you can't hold your breath that long, you can always try the Buccaneer Edition, which includes the artbook, soundtrack, lithographs, in-game content, collector's box, and an Edward Kenway Figure. That's available at GAME in the UK and GameStop in Ireland. Another UK option that's market-wide is the Skull Edition, which swaps out the Kenway figure and collector's box for a "Jumbo Steel Case." Finally, the standard-price Special Edition comes with all the existing additional unlockable in-game doodads, and it can only be found at GAME in the UK and Xtravision in Ireland.

On top of all those pieces of eight, Ubisoft has a VIP program as a pre-order bonus at GAME and Amazon in the UK, and GameStop in Ireland, or via uPlay. The program, rather menacingly called 'The Watch,' grants access to "additional information, bonus content, rewards," and an exclusive quest. You can find rustle up more info on The Watch here.

Continue reading Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag unveils gameplay trailer, collector's editions

JoystiqAssassin's Creed 4: Black Flag unveils gameplay trailer, collector's editions originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Mar 2013 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>assassins-creed-4-black-flagmicrosoftnintendopcplaystationps3ps4ubisoftubisoft-montrealwii-uxboxMon, 25 Mar 2013 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Diablo 3 for consoles 'not necessarily a Sony exclusive']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/22/diablo-3-for-consoles-not-necessarily-a-sony-exclusive/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/22/diablo-3-for-consoles-not-necessarily-a-sony-exclusive/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/22/diablo-3-for-consoles-not-necessarily-a-sony-exclusive/#comments

Diablo 3 is a beast, a monster that Sony wrangled down for what appeared to be an exclusive, but that doesn't appear to be the case. Speaking to the Penny Arcade Report, Diablo 3 Senior Producer Julia Humphreys clarified the game's platform agnosticism saying, "We don't have any announcements to make at this time ... But we're not necessarily a Sony exclusive."

Diablo 3 for consoles has only been confirmed for PlayStation 3 and PlayStation 4 at this point. The version shown at PAX East today was the PS3 version.

Features noted for the PS3 version include less spammy loot drops, an easier system to equip items directly form the main game screen and reiteration of no real-money auction house and the ability for offline play.

JoystiqDiablo 3 for consoles 'not necessarily a Sony exclusive' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Mar 2013 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardDiablo-3pax-east-2013playstationps3ps4Fri, 22 Mar 2013 16:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Carmageddon: Reincarnation racing onto next-gen via $3.5M investment]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/carmageddon-reincarnation-racing-onto-next-gen-via-3-5m-invest/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/carmageddon-reincarnation-racing-onto-next-gen-via-3-5m-invest/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/carmageddon-reincarnation-racing-onto-next-gen-via-3-5m-invest/#comments Stainless Games announced a final "funding round" has brought the total investment for Carmageddon: Reincarnation up to $3.5 million, allowing the studio to bring it to next-gen platforms in addition to PC. After the successful Kickstarter campaign for Reincarnation raised just over $625,000 last summer, which contributed to the PC version, the UK developer says the additional funding comes courtesy of Bullfrog co-founder Les Edgar, who's a shareholder in Stainless Games.

"We are delighted to have fully funded Carmageddon: Reincarnation without having to go outside of the collective of our own company, shareholders and fans." said Stainless CEO Patrick Buckland. "It allows us to maintain a true independence and creative control whilst not having to compromise quality or content by budgetary constraints."

Buckland added, "For an independent, privately owned company to achieve this is a testament to our strength and to the loyalty of our fans."

Stainless was named as a PS4 developer earlier this year, which along with today's news all but confirms Carmageddon: Reincarnation for release on the upcoming console.

The Kickstarter funding also allowed Stainless to bring the original Carmageddon to iOS and Android, which as promised in the campaign was made free on its first day of release.

Continue reading Carmageddon: Reincarnation racing onto next-gen via $3.5M investment

JoystiqCarmageddon: Reincarnation racing onto next-gen via $3.5M investment originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Mar 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carmageddon-reincarnationfundingkickstarterpcps4stainless-gamesWed, 20 Mar 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Yes, you can play through Thief without killing anyone]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/18/yes-you-can-play-through-thief-without-killing-anyone/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/18/yes-you-can-play-through-thief-without-killing-anyone/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/18/yes-you-can-play-through-thief-without-killing-anyone/#comments Yes, you can play through Thief without killing anyoneThief just got its second unveiling last week, now retooled to be more traditional and in-line with the original games in the franchise versus the grammar grotesqueness of the announced-in-2009 Thi4f. Eidos Montreal offered further insight into Thief in a blog post, confirming that protagonist Garrett will be able to get through the entire sticky-finger adventure without taking lives.

Eidos Montreal's previous offering, Deus Ex: Human Revolution, also allowed players to make it through the game as a pacifist - save for bosses - a good example considering it too was a modern entry in a franchise that had been dormant for quite some time. Thief is currently slated to launch on PC, PS4 and "other next-gen platforms" in 2014.

[Art from the official Thief Facebook page]

JoystiqYes, you can play through Thief without killing anyone originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Mar 2013 22:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eidos-montrealgarrettpacifismpacifistpcplaystation-4ps4square-enixthief-2014thief-4Mon, 18 Mar 2013 22:45:00 EST<![CDATA[PS4 trailer tops YouTube's February ad leaderboards]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/ps4-trailer-tops-youtubes-february-ad-leaderboards/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/ps4-trailer-tops-youtubes-february-ad-leaderboards/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/ps4-trailer-tops-youtubes-february-ad-leaderboards/#comments
In unusual accolade news, this commercial compression of the PS4 reveal notched top spot in YouTube's advert leaderboards last month. The leaderboards, as Think With Google puts it, mark "a winning combination of promotion (paid ad) and popularity (organic views)."

Usually the words YouTube and "popularity" go hand in hand with the likes of 'cat,' 'Charlie bit my finger,' and 'Harlem Shake' - Pepsi's rendition came in at fifth - so in that sense it's unusual to see a games console on such a list, even if it may mark Sony's PS4 push more than anything. Whichever way you look at it, one thing it does mean is a whole ton of eyes on these 103 seconds of new-console-ness.

JoystiqPS4 trailer tops YouTube's February ad leaderboards originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Mar 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ps4youtubeMon, 11 Mar 2013 10:00:00 EST