Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Lionhead's Molyneux open to revisiting his past catalog]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/lionheads-molyneux-open-to-revisiting-his-past-catalog/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/lionheads-molyneux-open-to-revisiting-his-past-catalog/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/lionheads-molyneux-open-to-revisiting-his-past-catalog/#commentsFiled under: ,


Though his vision usually outstrips his games' technical prowess, super developer Peter Molyneux is still responsible for some the most unique gaming experiences ever put to code. He's let us soar through the air on an enchanted rug, mow down civilians in a near-future dystopia, and has even let us play god once or twice.

Unfortunately, after having the distinct 'pleasure' of being absorbed by larger studios on two separate occasions, many of his most memorable creations have since been left to the pages of history. Even so, while Molyneux is currently courting players with his canine-friendly Fable 2, he recently told Shacknews that he's open to revisiting his earlier games, particularly Syndicate.

"I really would love to redo a version of Syndicate," he commented, adding that while he has not been given the go ahead to knock the dust off his past achievements, "one day, I'm sure that opportunity is going to come up and I'd love to do it." Of course, he's said this all before, but we continue to hold out hope. In a world filled with one mundane first-person shooter after the next, we could really use another Magic Carpet.

JoystiqLionhead's Molyneux open to revisiting his past catalog originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Mar 2008 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Actionblackandwhitebullfrogfable2lionheadlionhead-studioslionheadstudiosmagic-carpetmagiccarpetMGSmicrosoftMicrosoft-Game-StudiosmolyneuxpetermolyneuxpopulousRPGsyndicateXbox-360Thu, 20 Mar 2008 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lionhead wants your insults for Fable 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/15/lionhead-wants-your-insults-for-fable-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/15/lionhead-wants-your-insults-for-fable-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/15/lionhead-wants-your-insults-for-fable-2/#commentsFiled under: ,


Fable 2's combat and canines aren't going to be the only next-gen things about the game. Developer Lionhead also wants to replace the tired old "Arseface" insult that villagers yell at the hero when they hate him. They've turned to their community of loyal fans (yes, you!) for a replacement on their official blog.

The comments section is already filling up with soon-to-be-classics, but we're especially fond of "Groin Crab," "Loner McLonelyton" and the puzzling "Big Girls Blouse." Your own personal chance at immortality is just one click away.

[Via CVG]

JoystiqLionhead wants your insults for Fable 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Nov 2007 11:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fablefable2lionheadLionhead-StudiospetermolyneuxXbox-360Thu, 15 Nov 2007 11:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Peter Molyneux's Populous coming to Nintendo DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/12/peter-molyneuxs-populous-coming-to-nintendo-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/12/peter-molyneuxs-populous-coming-to-nintendo-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/12/peter-molyneuxs-populous-coming-to-nintendo-ds/#commentsFiled under: ,

Before he was integrating man's best friend into Fable 2, Peter Molyneux designed a little game called Populous, which was subsequently the inspiration for an entire genre of simulation games known as "god games." Though it was officially (and quietly) announced two months ago, the Populous DS buzz is finally beginning to build, with screens and details of the portable remake appearing in a recent issue of Famitsu Magazine.

According to our buddies over at DS Fanboy, the remake will feature wireless multiplayer for up to four people, and options for both stylus-driven and classic control. The game's levels will be collected from the original's numerous sequels, expansions, and editions. Famitsu reports a February 2008 release for the game in Japan.

JoystiqPeter Molyneux's Populous coming to Nintendo DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Nov 2007 09:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dseaElectronic-Artspetermolyneuxpopulouspopulous-dsMon, 12 Nov 2007 09:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Lionhead Video Diary 3: The Core Technology Group]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/09/lionhead-video-diary-3-the-core-technology-group/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/09/lionhead-video-diary-3-the-core-technology-group/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/09/lionhead-video-diary-3-the-core-technology-group/#commentsFiled under: ,

So, we might have sort of wanted to work at Lionhead Studios before we saw this latest video diary from the company, but now, after seeing the way they rung in their 10th anniversary, we're putting it on our lifelong to-do list, along with "skydiving," "Rocky Mountain climbing" and "going 2.7 seconds on a bull named Fu Manchu."

After all, this diary focuses on the nerdiest guys at the company, the guys coding the development tools for Fable 2, and even they manage to seem cool. ... Well, as cool as someone who takes two days off to make a Pyramid Head costume can seem. It's all relative, we guess. If you're behind, catch up with part 1 and part 2.

JoystiqLionhead Video Diary 3: The Core Technology Group originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Oct 2007 08:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fable2lionheadLionhead-StudiospetermolyneuxXbox-360Tue, 09 Oct 2007 08:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Molyneux says Live "more impactful" than Wii remote]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/06/molyneux-says-live-more-impactful-than-wii-remote/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/06/molyneux-says-live-more-impactful-than-wii-remote/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/06/molyneux-says-live-more-impactful-than-wii-remote/#commentsFiled under: ,

In a recent interview, Peter Molyneux stated that he believed Xbox Live will be "far more impactful" to video gaming than the Wii remote in the long term. As Xbox 360 Fanboys, we can certainly understand his sentiments, though current sales numbers might suggest otherwise. Still, it raises an interesting question. Both the Wii remote and Xbox Live have changed console gaming as we know it. Sure, there have been motion controls before, and there have been online games on consoles, but the Wii remote and Xbox Live represent the most successful iterations of both concepts. The question then is which will have the most impact on the industry, input or networking? Motion controls may bring more gamers into the fold with intuitive input, but networking brings those gamers together with online play and downloadable goodies.

Our instinct tells us the end result will be combining the two (Xbox ThWii-Sixty?) but, for the sake of discussion, why not share your thoughts on the importance of motion controls versus social networking in gaming.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqMolyneux says Live "more impactful" than Wii remote originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Sep 2007 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>livepetermolyneuxwiixboxliveThu, 06 Sep 2007 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Molyneux: Xbox Live 'far more impactful' than Wii waggle]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/06/molyneux-xbox-live-far-more-impactful-than-wii-waggle/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/06/molyneux-xbox-live-far-more-impactful-than-wii-waggle/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/06/molyneux-xbox-live-far-more-impactful-than-wii-waggle/#commentsFiled under: ,

mwahahahaDuring an otherwise pedestrian interview, Peter Molyneux opened that big mouth again, this time putting the burden of another potential overstatement squarely on Microsoft's shoulders. The Fable man has predicted that Xbox Live "will ultimately be far more impactful on video games in the long term than something like the Wii controller."

Molyneux isn't alone, but his view goes against the current (but possibly transitory) trend, which sees Wii demand reaching nothing short of phenomenon. Though, in practice, Wii is still an inconsistent technology; whereas Xbox Live is a stable and consistently growing platform that has changed the way publishers and developers create and deliver game content, and is inspiring competitors, namely Sony, to launch their own grand social networks for the console market. Is Molyneux dead on?

[Via NeoGAF]

JoystiqMolyneux: Xbox Live 'far more impactful' than Wii waggle originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Sep 2007 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>MolyneuxPeterMolyneuxWiiXbox-360XboxLiveThu, 06 Sep 2007 11:58:00 EST<![CDATA[X3F interview: Peter Molyneux]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/19/x3f-interview-peter-molyneux/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/19/x3f-interview-peter-molyneux/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/19/x3f-interview-peter-molyneux/#commentsFiled under: , ,


In another of our rapid fire, 4 minute interviews with Microsoft VIPs, we had a chance to chat with Peter Molyneux, mastermind behind Fable and the upcoming Fable 2. During our chat, we go in depth with Molyneux about the new scarring system employed in Fable 2. We also discuss the property system (which Molyneux is particularly fond of) and seafaring. And, just for grins, we ask about ninjas. If you'd prefer to listen to this interview (as well as interviews with Frank O'Connor, Brian "Ske7ch" Jarrard, and Peter Moore himself), you can check it out in our latest Fancast. Otherwise, read on.

Continue reading X3F interview: Peter Molyneux

JoystiqX3F interview: Peter Molyneux originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Jul 2007 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>E3e307e307roundrobinjoystiqfeatureslionheadlionheadstudiosmgsmicrosoftgamestudiospetermolyneuxThu, 19 Jul 2007 17:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq impressions: Fable 2 'Combat Testbed']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/16/joystiq-impressions-fable-2-combat-testbed/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/16/joystiq-impressions-fable-2-combat-testbed/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/16/joystiq-impressions-fable-2-combat-testbed/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

fable 2
Peter Molyneux describes Fable 2's combat as "kind of a little bit mad." It's just one blue button; a system that doesn't punish casual gamers (button-mashers), but still satisfies hardcore players. The number of experience points earned in any given skirmish is determined by how skillfully one uses the X-button. Timed button presses, including counters, are worth more than mashing, while incorporating blocking and charge attacks (both accomplished by holding X) will net you even more points to build your hero. The attack button is also context sensitive, as you'll automatically pick up and toss items strewn about the ground if your foes are at a distance, or you'll grab an enemy and shove him into a wall if you're battling in close quarters.

Magic and ranged attacks (mapped to the Y- and B-buttons) will apparently operate in much the same way, but only the X-attack was on display at E3 in Lionhead's "Combat Testbed," a visually-lacking demo not meant to impress, but to arouse curiosity. "I know, it's bloody awful," Molyneux said of the current level of polish, while urging us to focus on more abstract concepts, like the amount of dedication that the development team has put into Fable 2's design. Molyneux is still haunted by his bold claims about the original Fable, lamenting his infamous 'greatest RPG evar' comment, made while Fable was still a rough draft. But the celebrated game designer insists that this -- to be the greatest -- is the goal for Fable 2, he's just not as (publicly) convinced he'll get there.

Gallery: Fable 2

Continue reading Joystiq impressions: Fable 2 'Combat Testbed'

JoystiqJoystiq impressions: Fable 2 'Combat Testbed' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 16 Jul 2007 11:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>E3e307fable2impressionslionheadLionhead-StudiosmolyneuxPeterMolyneuxXbox-360Xbox360Mon, 16 Jul 2007 11:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Fable 2 seafaring nixed, ninjas added?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/14/fable-2-seafaring-nixed-ninjas-added/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/14/fable-2-seafaring-nixed-ninjas-added/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/14/fable-2-seafaring-nixed-ninjas-added/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Whilst chatting with Peter Molyneux during a lightning fast, round robin interview session (8 tables, 8 Xbox luminaries, 4 minutes each: more at X3F), we learned two surprising things about Fable 2. First of all, we have bad news for all the would-be Fable 2 pirates: seafaring has been cut from the game. Molyneux told us that Lionhead had intended to allow players to become ship captains and sail the ocean blue, but eventually made the decision to cut the concept from the game. According to Molyneux, it's part of his job to cut things out of Fable 2 so that what is left -- the combat, for instance -- is really polished. Molyneux did inform us that the game will still contain pirates though, so that should serve as some consolation. As for the (possibly) good news: since we were on the subject of pirates, we cheekily asked Molyneux if Fable 2 will have ninjas. Molyneux responded, "Ninjas? Well, we aren't saying anything about that. It's funny you should ask that question." Why, Peter? Why is it funny that we should ask that question!? Tell us more!

So then, for those keeping score on Fable 2:

Death -- No
Seafaring -- No
Pirates -- Yes
Ninjas -- Mmmm ... could be.

JoystiqFable 2 seafaring nixed, ninjas added? originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 14 Jul 2007 20:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingnewsE3e307e307breakingnewsfable2lionheadLionhead-StudioslionheadstudiosmicrosoftgamestudiospetermolyneuxXbox-360Sat, 14 Jul 2007 20:35:00 EST<![CDATA[X3F hands-on: Fable 2's musical combat]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/13/x3f-hands-on-fable-2-musical-combat/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/13/x3f-hands-on-fable-2-musical-combat/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/13/x3f-hands-on-fable-2-musical-combat/#commentsFiled under: , ,


You may or may not know this, but Peter Molyneux has something of a silver tongue. Having witnessed its power at GDC when he revealed "the dog," we weren't sure what to expect at the E3 Fable 2 presentation. Of course, Peter employed that same silver tongue to describe the original Fable, which, while being a good game in its own right, wasn't exactly what he promised. So, when he told us that Fable 2's combat is controlled with one button, we were a bit skeptical.

Continue reading X3F hands-on: Fable 2's musical combat

JoystiqX3F hands-on: Fable 2's musical combat originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Jul 2007 20:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>E3e307fablefable 2Fable2lionheadlionheadstudiospetermolyneuxFri, 13 Jul 2007 20:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Molyneux: no death in Fable 2, but scars]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/12/molyneux-no-death-in-fable-2-but-scars/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/12/molyneux-no-death-in-fable-2-but-scars/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/12/molyneux-no-death-in-fable-2-but-scars/#commentsFiled under: , ,


After sampling the delights of Fable 2 (more on that soon) we had a little chat with Peter Molyneux about death. Specifically, we talked about how death would be treated in Fable 2. Typically, death in video games means loading the previous checkpoint or restarting a given level. According to Molyneux, such will not be the case in Fable 2. Instead, when overpowered and bested by an enemy, players will be left with a permanent reminder of their defeat: a scar. Granted, the scars are cosmetic, but they do affect how NPCs perceive the main character. The idea apparently came to Molyneux after watching Casino Royale, in which James Bond undergoes particularly brutal torture during one scene and finds himself in the arms of a woman during the next. According to Molyneux, "In Hollywood, heroes always win the day." That's all well and good, but what if you don't like the idea of being disfigured? Players will have two choices it seems: don't lose, or you can pay a hefty fee to keep your attackers from scarring you. Molyneux revealed that testers are willing to lay down hefty sums of gold -- 1000, which is enough to buy a hut -- in order to avoid scarring. So there you have it, you won't die in Fable 2 -- even bosses can't kill you, but they leave deeper scars -- but you'll pay a price (one way or another) for failing in combat.

JoystiqMolyneux: no death in Fable 2, but scars originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Jul 2007 20:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>E3e307fablefable2lionheadlionheadstudiosmgsmicrosoftgamestudiospetermolyneuxThu, 12 Jul 2007 20:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Molyneux: no death in Fable 2, but scars]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/12/molyneux-no-death-in-fable-2-but-scars/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/12/molyneux-no-death-in-fable-2-but-scars/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/12/molyneux-no-death-in-fable-2-but-scars/#commentsFiled under: , ,


After sampling the delights of Fable 2 (more on that soon) we had a little chat with Peter Molyneux about death. Specifically, we talked about how death would be treated in Fable 2. Typically, death in video games means loading the previous checkpoint or restarting a given level. According to Molyneux, such will not be the case in Fable 2. Instead, when overpowered and bested by an enemy, players will be left with a permanent reminder of their defeat: a scar.

Granted, the scars are cosmetic, but they do affect how NPCs perceive the main character. The idea apparently came to Molyneux after watching Casino Royale, in which James Bond undergoes particularly brutal torture during one scene and finds himself in the arms of a woman during the next. According to Molyneux, "in Hollywood, heroes always win the day." That's all well and good, but what if you don't like the idea of being disfigured?

Players will have two choices it seems: don't lose, or pay a hefty fee to keep your attackers from scarring you. Molyneux revealed that testers are willing to lay down hefty sums of gold -- 1000, which is enough to buy a hut -- in order to avoid scarring. So there you have it, you won't die in Fable 2 -- even bosses can't kill you, they just leave deeper scars -- but you'll pay a price (one way or another) for failing in combat.

JoystiqMolyneux: no death in Fable 2, but scars originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Jul 2007 20:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingnewsE3e307e307breakingnewsfable2lionheadLionhead-StudioslionheadstudiosmicrosoftgamestudiospetermolyneuxXbox-360Thu, 12 Jul 2007 20:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Molyneux hints at next big Fable 2 announcement]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/21/molyneux-hints-at-next-big-fable-2-announcement/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/21/molyneux-hints-at-next-big-fable-2-announcement/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/21/molyneux-hints-at-next-big-fable-2-announcement/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Super Lionhead Studios fansite Loinhead scored an exclusive interview with the creative mastermind behind Fable 2 Peter Molyneux. And in the interview Molyneux talks a little bit about his past failures (Black and White 2), in-game combat, and hints at one of Fable 2's next big announcements ... death. Molyneux doesn't give any specifics to how death will be incorporated into Fable 2, but goes on to say that in other games when you die "you go back in time twenty minutes to do the same thing over again. That's fine if I'm playing a platformer, not so fine if you're doing an RPG game". So, traditional ways of dealing with death will not be good enough for Fable 2. But we've already known that Lionhead doesn't plan on taking the traditional path with the sequel (dog anyone?).

Check out more of Molyneux's candid discussion in Loinhead's complete video interview posted after the break.

Continue reading Molyneux hints at next big Fable 2 announcement

JoystiqMolyneux hints at next big Fable 2 announcement originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 May 2007 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fablefable 2Fable2lionheadlionhead studiosLionheadStudiosmolyneuxpeter molyneuxPeterMolyneuxMon, 21 May 2007 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Today's best friendiest video: Fable 2 dog]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/14/todays-best-friendiest-video-fable-2-dog/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/14/todays-best-friendiest-video-fable-2-dog/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/14/todays-best-friendiest-video-fable-2-dog/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

We previously covered Peter Molyneux's Fable 2 talk at GDC, and now the most-watched video at GameTrailers shows off Fable 2's dog, letting us take a closer look for tonight's video. Molyneux stresses not to scrutinize the graphics and that only the dog is worth looking at in the demo's current state. Overlooking the work left to be done, the dog seems to be well animated and deliver a lot of emotion; hopefully this companion will add more depth to the game.

See the dog demo after the break.

Continue reading Today's best friendiest video: Fable 2 dog

JoystiqToday's best friendiest video: Fable 2 dog originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Mar 2007 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dogfable 2Fable2GDCgdc07hottest videoHottestVideopetpeter molyneuxPeterMolyneuxXbox-360Wed, 14 Mar 2007 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A handful of unofficial Fable 2 dog shots]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/13/a-handful-of-unofficial-fable-2-dog-shots/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/13/a-handful-of-unofficial-fable-2-dog-shots/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/13/a-handful-of-unofficial-fable-2-dog-shots/#commentsFiled under: ,


Sure, we've heard plenty about Fable 2's new dog -- we talk about it at length in the latest Fancast -- but only those of us lucky enough to have been at GDC have actually seen it (outside of a few blurry shots that is). Luckily for us, our friends from GayGamer.net were sitting right next to us at the presentation and bagged a handful of decent shots of the dog in action. They also managed to snap a shot of Bowerstone, the game's central city. As you gaze at all the buildings and shops in the photo, remember that you can buy every single piece of property you see.

Sort of makes the wait for Fable 2 seem even longer doesn't it?

JoystiqA handful of unofficial Fable 2 dog shots originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Mar 2007 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fable 2Fable2lionheadlionhead studioLionheadStudiomicrosoft game studiosMicrosoftGameStudiospeter molyneuxPeterMolyneuxTue, 13 Mar 2007 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC: More Fable 2 feature goodness]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/12/gdc-more-fable-2-feature-goodness/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/12/gdc-more-fable-2-feature-goodness/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/12/gdc-more-fable-2-feature-goodness/#commentsFiled under: , ,


As we slowly recover from GDC jet-lag, we thought it would be best to post some of the other features that Peter Molyneux confirmed for Fable 2. After all, a dog can't be the only new feature in Fable 2. There really is quite a bit to consider, so we'll just dole out the info in bite sized bits via a handy bulleted list. Everyone likes lists.
  • Players can pick a male or female hero
  • Players can choose to have protected or unprotected sex (and yes, there are STDs)
  • Female heroes can get pregnant
  • Players can have children
  • The world responds to your "hero-ness"
  • Two new character morphs (besides Good/Evil): cruelty/kindness and wealth/poverty
  • Own every single piece of property
  • Players can become king
Let's look at these more closely.

Continue reading GDC: More Fable 2 feature goodness

JoystiqGDC: More Fable 2 feature goodness originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Mar 2007 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fablefable 2Fable2GDC-2007gdc07liionhead studioLiionheadStudiolionheadlionhead studiosLionheadStudiosmolyneuxpeter molyneuxPeterMolyneuxMon, 12 Mar 2007 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fable 2 concept art includes that dog]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/09/fable-2-concept-art-includes-that-dog/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/09/fable-2-concept-art-includes-that-dog/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/09/fable-2-concept-art-includes-that-dog/#commentsFiled under: ,

Xboxygen posted a few new concept art images from Fable 2, which include that mysterious (yet revolutionary) dog. We now know why Lionhead Studios didn't release these images until after the big announcement, otherwise they'd have spilled the beans on the whole puppy thing and left people wondering "what the heck is that furry thing doing in my Fable 2 artwork?" So, go ahead and take a look, digest the recent Fable 2 news, pet your dog, and come back with a refreshed face and an optimistic outlook on life.

JoystiqFable 2 concept art includes that dog originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 Mar 2007 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fablefable 2Fable2lionhead studiosLionheadStudiospeter molyneuxPeterMolyneuxFri, 09 Mar 2007 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Revolutionary Fable 2 feature is a dog]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/08/revolutionary-fable-2-feature-is-a-dog/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/08/revolutionary-fable-2-feature-is-a-dog/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/08/revolutionary-fable-2-feature-is-a-dog/#commentsFiled under: , ,


There's a reason Peter Molyneux is smiling in this picture. He was nervous to reveal the "revolutionary" new feature in Fable 2. Several people on his own team told him not to do it. In fairness, it's definitely a risky feature. No one in their right mind would call it revolutionary at first glance. Yes, the intertubes were right: Fable 2's secret new feature is a dog. That's it. So, why is Peter smiling? He's smiling because he just convinced a room full of jaded journalists that a dog is revolutionary. Yup, it's a dog, but believe it or not, you will love it.

Continue reading Revolutionary Fable 2 feature is a dog

JoystiqRevolutionary Fable 2 feature is a dog originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Mar 2007 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fable 2Fable2gdcGDC-2007gdc07lionheadlionhead studioLionheadStudiomolyneuxpeter molyneuxPeterMolyneuxThu, 08 Mar 2007 18:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Fable 2: Man's best friend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/08/fable-2-mans-best-friend/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/08/fable-2-mans-best-friend/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/08/fable-2-mans-best-friend/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Though his calm and and exceedingly eloquent manner might suggest a more languid pace, Peter Molyneux wastes little time when raising expectations -- and he knows it. "I'm going to get into trouble for saying this," says the British game designer before launching into his Fable 2 GDC presentation. "If we don't think it's going to be a landmark game, it's going to be bloody pointless to make it." Several moments later, I find myself thinking about what a horribly cruel man he is.

And that's a good thing. You see, one of Fable 2's key features is, well, a dog. Not some sort of magical beast or a disturbing, anthropomorphic St. Bernard. A tail-wagging, ball-chasing, honest-to-goodness dog. Fable's gesture system makes a return here, with petting and cries of scorn eliciting different reactions from the dog. At one point, Peter's on-screen character screams and waves his hands menacingly at the dog, frightening it into a quivering pile of fur. It seems mean, but the press members in the room chuckle appreciatively. Those monsters.

Continue reading Fable 2: Man's best friend

JoystiqFable 2: Man's best friend originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Mar 2007 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Fable 2Fable2GDCGDC07MicrosoftPeter MolyneuxPeterMolyneuxXbox-360Thu, 08 Mar 2007 17:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Fable 2 dog is the 'totally unexpected' feature?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/07/fable-2-dog-is-the-totally-unexpected-feature/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/07/fable-2-dog-is-the-totally-unexpected-feature/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/07/fable-2-dog-is-the-totally-unexpected-feature/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

fable 2
French gaming site Xboxygen has posted some pictures of a dog. Not just any dog, but Fable 2's dog. Could this be the "totally unexpected" feature Molyneux teased us about?

[Via Xbox 360 Fanboy]

JoystiqFable 2 dog is the 'totally unexpected' feature? originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Mar 2007 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DogFableFable2GDCgdc07LionheadLionhead-StudiosMolyneuxPeterMolyneuxXbox-360Wed, 07 Mar 2007 16:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Fable 2 is getting a cute puppy dog]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/07/fable-2-is-getting-a-cute-puppy-dog/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/07/fable-2-is-getting-a-cute-puppy-dog/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/07/fable-2-is-getting-a-cute-puppy-dog/#commentsFiled under: , ,


The French folks over at Xboygen posted pictures of a new "character" in Fable 2. It's a dog! Your own personal dog to play with, train, and love while exploring the lush green world that Fable offers. In one picture, Peter Molyneux is pointing to our furry little companion and probably explaining how to get your dog to attack on command ... or so that's what we want to believe. And of course these screen grabs beg the question to whether or not this is the big Fable 2 announcement or just one interesting addition to the game. Only time will tell, but we'll find out soon as our very own Richard Mitchell will be getting the complete dish on Fable 2 during his coverage of GDC: 07. Stay tuned.

JoystiqFable 2 is getting a cute puppy dog originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Mar 2007 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fablefable 2Fable2gdcgdc 07GDC-2007gdc07lionhead studiosLionheadStudiospeter molyneuxPeterMolyneuxWed, 07 Mar 2007 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Detailed Fable 2 info coming at GDC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/12/detailed-fable-2-info-coming-at-gdc/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/12/detailed-fable-2-info-coming-at-gdc/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/12/detailed-fable-2-info-coming-at-gdc/#commentsFiled under: ,

This year's Game Developers Conference kicks off in March and it looks like we'll get the insider dish on Lionhead's Fable 2. GWN.com dugg up information on the GDC's conference sessions and found one on Fable 2 hosted by Peter Molyneux. We double checked this information and located a GDC session called "Innovations in Fable 2" hosted by Peter and starting on March 8th. The description says that the "talk will centre around revolutions in Fable 2." and "will examine how key game play elements have been refined and expanded". Will we finally get every last detail on Lionhead's highly anticipated sequel? Will we get to see actual gameplay videos? Will Molyneux start the hype machine and over promise on all levels? We don't have any answers now, but we know that there will be some Fable 2 information coming out of GDC ... how much is still unknown.

[Thanks, Jonah]

JoystiqDetailed Fable 2 info coming at GDC originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Feb 2007 00:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fablefable 2Fable2game developers conferenceGameDevelopersConferencegdclionheadmicrosoft game studioMicrosoftGameStudiopeter molyneuxPeterMolyneuxMon, 12 Feb 2007 00:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Fable scraps: first (crappy) screen shots!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/17/fable-scraps-first-crappy-screen-shots/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/17/fable-scraps-first-crappy-screen-shots/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/17/fable-scraps-first-crappy-screen-shots/#commentsFiled under: ,


The latest issue of the Lionhead Times is out, and this month it brings us the first in engine screen shots of Fable 2. As you may have guessed, the shot you see above is not representative of the final game (like at all). Still, Lionhead proclaims to be making lots of progress in development. In fact, the shots released today aren't indicative of the current build, which is apparently looking "beautiful." Still, we would be remiss not to share even the slightest bit of Fable related information. Another new tidbit, water has made it into the game. Not only that, but Lionhead claims that we will be able to do things with this water. Given the piratical nature of the character art released so far, we'd say it's a safe bet you can sail on it. But what other possibilities could there be? Swimming? Deep see diving? Mermaid adventures? We're keeping our fingers crossed for that last one (and we just might hear more about it when Peter Molyneux lectures at GDC). Follow the "read" link for the latest info and a screen shot of the soon to be infamous "crotch cam."

JoystiqFable scraps: first (crappy) screen shots! originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Jan 2007 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fable 2Fable2lionheadlionhead studiosLionheadStudiospeter molyneuxPeterMolyneuxWed, 17 Jan 2007 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Molyneux, others join GDC lineup, Fable 'talk' imminent]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/09/molyneux-others-join-gdc-lineup-fable-talk-imminent/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/09/molyneux-others-join-gdc-lineup-fable-talk-imminent/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/09/molyneux-others-join-gdc-lineup-fable-talk-imminent/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Peter MolyneuxHaving the inside scoop, Gamasutra reports that Peter Molyneux, Killer 7's Goichi Suda, and a team of Final Fantasy XII developers led by Taku Murata are joining the GDC 2007 lineup. Molyneux, well known for his mastery of hype-building (and subsequent apologies), will by lecturing on Fable 2, musing aloud about the brilliant innovations that might or might not make the final cut -- Molyneux promises to reveal "a totally unexpected feature" (we've heard that before).

Teasing aside, Molyneux is one of the most forward-thinking developers in the industry today. He might not always deliver, but he's earned his street cred for being a risk-taker. Molyneux's colorful presence is a key addition to GDC.

Also making appearances during the conference will be Goichi Suda, who will illustrate the experience of working on a small development team (in this case, Grasshopper), along with Taku Murata and other core members of the FFXII team, who will reflect on the lessons learned during the game's development.

JoystiqMolyneux, others join GDC lineup, Fable 'talk' imminent originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Jan 2007 17:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>360FableFable 2Fable2Final FantasyFinal Fantasy XIIFinalFantasyFinalFantasyXiiGameCubeGDCGDC07Goichi SudaGoichiSudaKiller 7Killer7Peter MolyneuxPeterMolyneuxPS2Square-EnixTaku MurataTakuMurataXbox-360Tue, 09 Jan 2007 17:31:00 EST<![CDATA[New Fable 2 feature to be revealed at GDC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/09/new-fable-2-feature-to-be-revealed-at-gdc/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/09/new-fable-2-feature-to-be-revealed-at-gdc/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/09/new-fable-2-feature-to-be-revealed-at-gdc/#commentsFiled under:


GDC 07 (Game Developers Conference) is set to begin in March, and speakers are already being announced. Among these scheduled speakers is Peter Molyneux, the man behind Fable and its upcoming sequel, Fable 2. Molyneux will be at the conference to perform a lecture entitled, "Innovations in Fable 2." The lecture will discuss how elements from Fable have been changed and made better for Fable 2. Furthermore, Molyneux promises to reveal a new and "totally unexpected" feature in the game. What could it be? We have no idea, and after the amazing amount of hype built around the first Fable, perhaps its best if we don't get carried away.

Our readers (that's you), on the other hand, can get as carried away as they like. Do you have any ideas for a great new feature in Fable 2?

JoystiqNew Fable 2 feature to be revealed at GDC originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Jan 2007 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fablefable 2Fable2game developers conference 07GameDevelopersConference07gdc 07Gdc07lionheadlionhead studiolionhead studiosLionheadStudioLionheadStudiospeter molyneuxPeterMolyneuxTue, 09 Jan 2007 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Havok to power Fable 2 physics & animation]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/12/havok-to-power-fable-2-physics-and-animation/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/12/havok-to-power-fable-2-physics-and-animation/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/12/havok-to-power-fable-2-physics-and-animation/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Fable 2Havok announced today that Molyneux and company have licensed Havok Complete for Fable 2. 'Complete' rolls Havok Physics and Havok Animation into one integrated package.

As Molyneux iterated, relying on Havok allows Lionhead developers to focus on the team's lofty aspirations, most-simply defined as dynamic regions, unconditional love, wealth accumulation, constrained combat, and an as of yet undisclosed uber-feature. As with the original Fable, at this stage it's hard to distinguish fantasy from reality (what gameplay elements will and won't make it into Fable 2's final release). But there is now at least one certainty: ragdolls.

[Via 1UP]

JoystiqHavok to power Fable 2 physics & animation originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Dec 2006 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AnimationFableFable 2Fable2HavokHavok CompleteHavokCompleteLionheadLionhead-StudiosPeter MolyneuxPeterMolyneuxPhysicsRagdollSequelXbox-360Tue, 12 Dec 2006 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Fable 2: Havok in the land of Albion]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/12/fable-2-havok-in-the-land-of-albion/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/12/fable-2-havok-in-the-land-of-albion/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/12/fable-2-havok-in-the-land-of-albion/#commentsFiled under:

IGN reports that Lionhead Studios has adopted the Havok physics engine for use in the upcoming Fable 2. Peter Molyneux, the man behind the Fable series, hopes that Havok will simplify and streamline the development process, allowing designers to bypass physics calculation and instead focus on creating the game world itself. Frankly, we don't really care what sort of physics the game employs as long as it makes it out before 2008.

Hey, Lionhead, how about throwing us some in game footage? We need something to obsess about, and concept art just isn't cutting it anymore.

JoystiqFable 2: Havok in the land of Albion originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Dec 2006 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fablefable 2Fable2havoklionheadlionhead studiosLionheadStudiospeter molyneuxPeterMolyneuxTue, 12 Dec 2006 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Fable scraps for Thanksgiving]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/21/new-fable-scraps-for-thanksgiving/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/21/new-fable-scraps-for-thanksgiving/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/21/new-fable-scraps-for-thanksgiving/#commentsFiled under:


The latest Fable 2 community update went live on Friday -- factoring in the international time change, that's technically next Tuesday -- and we're left with ... not much. Unfortunately, we still have virtually no gameplay details to give you. What we do have is this lovely drawing of a street corner. There are a few tiny details to give. The first of which is that the game looks "stunning." According to the update, the game is leaps and bounds ahead of the teaser trailer that was released at E3. Also, Fable 2 will feature new vertical elements that were absent from Fable. For example, water levels could rise, giving you access to higher areas, or you can jump down a hole to enter a subterranean dungeon. It's a simple idea, but it could add a lot to Fable 2's overall geography -- Fable was pretty flat when you think about it. The only other tidbit revealed is that development is proceeding on schedule, which doesn't help us if we don't have an actual release date with which to gauge Lionhead's progress. Still, this is the last community update this year, so we'll have to take what we can get.

The question is, with only the odd piece of artwork now and again to keep you going, are you still excited for Fable 2?

[Via Xboxygen]

JoystiqNew Fable scraps for Thanksgiving originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Nov 2006 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fablefable 2Fable2lionheadlionhead studiosLionheadStudiosmicrosoft game studiosMicrosoftGameStudiospeter molyneuxPeterMolyneuxTue, 21 Nov 2006 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Molyneux would've loved to work with the Wii]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/02/molyneux-wouldve-loved-to-work-with-the-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/02/molyneux-wouldve-loved-to-work-with-the-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/02/molyneux-wouldve-loved-to-work-with-the-wii/#commentsFiled under:

During an interview with Computer and Video Games, Lionhead Studios head and Fable creator Peter Molyneux took a chance to speak his mind regarding the Wii when questioned. The entirety of the interview is mainly based on Peter's work in the development field and his time at Microsoft, but he does take the opportunity to express his interest in Nintendo's console:

CVG: Is the Wii something, under different circumstances, you'd like to explore?

Molyneux: I'd love to play around with it. You know, it's a pure design challenge and the biggest change you can make in a designer's life is changing the controller and not thinking about 'oh we're not going to put this on the X button and that on the A button' - but having to do a complete re-think is quite an exciting challenge and something I would've loved to have got my teeth into, yes.

JoystiqMolyneux would've loved to work with the Wii originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Nov 2006 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lionheadmicrosoftmolyneuxnintendonintendowiipeterpetermolyneuxwiiThu, 02 Nov 2006 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fable 2 is playable! ... sorta]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/05/fable-2-reaches-milestone-its-playable-sorta/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/05/fable-2-reaches-milestone-its-playable-sorta/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/05/fable-2-reaches-milestone-its-playable-sorta/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Xbox 360Word from Lionhead is that Fable 2 has reached the "FP" milestone -- that's dev-speak for "first playable." Don't get too excited, this just means that Microsoft has been sent a few functional areas of the game, so the publisher can be confident its money isn't only being blown on "office refurbishment" and pizza parties.

The FP build also included a never-to-be-released quest, which, according to Lionhead's most recent community update, featured, "a magical potion, some pretty messed-up, dandy-dressed, wizard-types and most importantly such a dramatic outcome of a twisted nature, that it would make Joe Average Jr. freak out." We don't even wanna know ...

JoystiqFable 2 is playable! ... sorta originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Oct 2006 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>FableFable 2Fable2LionheadLionhead StudiosLionhead-StudiosLionheadStudiosPeter MolyneuxPeterMolyneuxXbox-360Thu, 05 Oct 2006 16:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Molyneux: "I'm lazy... motion sensing may be annoying"]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/08/24/molyneux-im-lazy-motion-sensing-may-be-annoying/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/08/24/molyneux-im-lazy-motion-sensing-may-be-annoying/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/08/24/molyneux-im-lazy-motion-sensing-may-be-annoying/#commentsFiled under: ,

All right, so the subject line isn't a direct quote, but it's exactly how many gamers from days gone by feel. Lionhead's Peter Molyneux spoke at the Games Convention, talking about ways to switch up traditional combat games by removing hit points, adding one hit kills (Bushido Blade, anyone?) and more environment-player interaction. Valid points, sort of. An audience member asked how the Wiimote would treat these ideas and he responded thus: "If you wanted to make a big difference, where's the best place to make that difference? I think the controller is definitely it. There's no doubt in my mind that controllers are changing, and they're changing really fast."

Good answer, right? He wasn't done. "I've realized I'm an incredibly lazy person when I play games, and actually slouching back on the sofa, playing on my beer belly, is my most comfortable position. When I have to get up, it's painful. I make noises and start grunting." Yeah. Many will agree that sitting in a straight, upright position (let alone having room to stand to move around with your controller) isn't their favorite way of playing games. Basically, the rest of his argument stated that the physical exertion (though little) isn't what gamers want to do for hours at a time. 20 minutes, sure. What does everyone think? If more subtle, creative ways were thought up to utilize the motion-sensitive controllers of tomorrow, is that better than waving it around like a sword for however long a game is? Or do you not mind swinging a fake sword, baseball bat, etc, for more than an hour at a time?

JoystiqMolyneux: "I'm lazy... motion sensing may be annoying" originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 Aug 2006 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Games ConventionGamesConventionLionheadPeter MolyneuxPeterMolyneuxPlaystation 3Playstation3PS3Thu, 24 Aug 2006 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Peter Molyneux wants to change combat in games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/08/22/peter-molyneux-wants-to-change-combat-in-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/08/22/peter-molyneux-wants-to-change-combat-in-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/08/22/peter-molyneux-wants-to-change-combat-in-games/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,


During a Leipzig GCDC briefing, Lionhead boss Peter Molyneux laid out some ideas on how to change the way combat games work. According to Eurogamer, Molyneux said combat games have the same issues among them, in that they are all about the same thing: hit points, weapons don't do much damage and the environments mean nothing.

Molyneux proposed that fighting in games should be more like the combat seen in films (using Kill Bill as an example). He said that game developers "do not treat a sword like a real thing; it's like a big squashy thing. And that's not what we want to present, or what Hollywood presents as combat." He said that he'd like to see more one-hit kills instead. Molyneux also pointed out that he'd like to see more one-button moves, saying that "around 80 percent of people use one button anyway." He said one button should do different things depending on the context.

According to 1UP, Molyneux was also critical of motion-sensing controls being used in combat (referring to, but not specifically mentioning the Wii): "I realized, when I looked at myself in the mirror, I actually looked really stupid. Even with nothing in my hand, I get tired very, very quickly. I think motion-sensitivity is very, very useful, but I think the obvious way of doing it -- unless you're dealing with a 15 to 20 minute experience at most of actually being hugely physical -- is not where the opportunity lies here."

[Update: Added video of Molyneux's presentation after the break.]

Continue reading Peter Molyneux wants to change combat in games

JoystiqPeter Molyneux wants to change combat in games originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 Aug 2006 13:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Fable2PCPeterMolyneuxPS3WiiXbox-360Tue, 22 Aug 2006 13:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Molyneux interested in revisiting old franchises]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/08/15/molyneux-interested-in-revisiting-old-franchises/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/08/15/molyneux-interested-in-revisiting-old-franchises/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/08/15/molyneux-interested-in-revisiting-old-franchises/#commentsFiled under: ,

Speaking to Gamespot UK, the ever-enthusiastic and monochromatically inclined Peter Molyneux expressed interest in revisiting some of his old franchises. Licensing complications aside, he asserts that "some sort of next-gen online version of Syndicate would certainly be popular with gamers," and that new versions of Dungeon Keeper and Populous would be equally exciting to him. Having been purchased by Microsoft certainly makes the prospect of these sequels appearing at Lionhead (and not EA) less likely, but not impossible.

In fact, we're already swooning over the idea of a sprawling Syndicate sequel -- perhaps a next-gen variant might even give us that real ending we were so rudely cheated out of years ago. Then again, sprawling development costs might say otherwise. "But it should be remembered that there is a law of diminishing return here, so if you spend $5 million and double that to $10 million, you don't get double the quality. This trend really can't continue, and the industry must face the fact we need to stabilize our costs. This will mean that reuse of technology and assets needs to be much better managed."

For further Molyneux insight, check out Joystiq's "But you said that about Fable 1!" interview conducted at last month's Develop Conference.

[Via GamersReports]

JoystiqMolyneux interested in revisiting old franchises originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Aug 2006 23:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>PCPeter MolyneuxPeterMolyneuxSyndicateSyndicate WarsSyndicateWarsXbox-360Tue, 15 Aug 2006 23:25:00 EST<![CDATA[The latest Fable scraps]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/08/15/the-latest-fable-scraps/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/08/15/the-latest-fable-scraps/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/08/15/the-latest-fable-scraps/#commentsFiled under:


The latest Fable 2 update gives us a few tidbits to enjoy -- namely the solitary piece of concept art above. Of particular interest -- especially to those who were disappointed by Fable's restrictive pathways -- is level designer, Charlton Edward's comments on the game:

"The world definitely is much bigger and it also feels better. There are more things to do within each area and we absolutely have to make them interesting and absorbing. Too many times have I spent playing RPG's set in vast barren wastelands. Fable 2 retains the Fable 1 organic, intimate feel, while giving players tons to explore and discover. We are really trying to pack the world with exploration, interaction and secrets."

While this doesn't necessarily mean the end of Fable's linear paths, it at least promises we'll have more to do on said paths. Anybody have this in their top five most wanted yet?

[Via Xboxygen (watch out, it's in French)]

JoystiqThe latest Fable scraps originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Aug 2006 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fablefable 2fable twoFable2FableTwolionheadlionhead studiosLionheadStudiospeter molyneuxPeterMolyneuxTue, 15 Aug 2006 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Hype begins and ends with the gaming press]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/07/20/hype-begins-and-ends-with-the-gaming-press/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/07/20/hype-begins-and-ends-with-the-gaming-press/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/07/20/hype-begins-and-ends-with-the-gaming-press/#commentsFiled under: ,

Wanna see a hype fest? Do you? You do?! Well just head over to Eurogamer, where the site decided to give Peter Molyneux a free license to hype up his unannounced projects.

In an "interview" that in fifty years will be regarded by scholars as the definitive example of hype creation, Eurogamer asked Molyneux "what's your next game, and when are we going to find out about that?" The rest of the interview consists of Molyneux spouting hyped, fluffy nonsense about how he can't tell us what the game is about, but that it'll definitely be awesome+1 to the max!

I just can't blame Molyneux for this mess -- if you give one of the game industry's most savvy game developers/marketers an open microphone, it's practically a law that he will use it to hype his product. Since Molyneux didn't actually say anything about his next game that might not be included in the game (like what happened with Fable) Molyneux is totally covered. The real blame lies with Eurogamer. This goes way beyond them failing to rein him in; they've gone out of their way to construct hype out of the interview. The accompanying article is dedicated to encouraging readers to guess the word that defines Molyneux's next project. Do they think that the average Eurogamer reader is five years old?!

As Winston Smith says in 1984, "if there is hope, it lies in the proles gamers", so it's encouraging to see commentators calling Eurogamer out on this trash. Stoatboy says "Oh ffs - that was a terrible interview. Love him or loathe him - that interview said NOTHING above any beyond "it'll be GREAT", which is the very least anyone would say about any game they happened to be working on."

See also: Joystiq's interview with Peter Molyneux

JoystiqHype begins and ends with the gaming press originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Jul 2006 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Conrad over at Joystiq has posted an interview with Lionhead's Peter Molyneux. There's a lot of good stuff in there and I won't attempt to recount it all. I will, however, relate this little tidbit to whet your appetite:

"You know in those days that's what it was like, I smoked more cigarettes, drunk more and did disastrous things to my body. I was a total introvert, the world outside of what I did on my computer became dim, almost psychotically so. But, there was, and I apologize for using this words, there was this orgasmic delight in physically creating something."

Good stuff. Conrad and Peter talk Fable, Fable 2, Pete's "secret project", and more. Head over to Joystiq and check it out.

JoystiqPeter Molyneux's orgasmic delight originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 Jul 2006 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Yesterday at the Develop Conference in Brighton, Jennie and I had the opportunity to sit down and talk with the founder of Lionhead Studios, Peter Molyneux. We chatted about the issue of hype, frustrations surrounding PC gaming and Peter's early days in the industry, amongst other topics.

Fable was pretty much portrayed as one of the most open games of all time, but in terms of hype, it failed to meet the high expectations that you gave the game. There was even a forum post where you apologized about this: why did it get to that level?

Well, it started with this fatal line that I made and that was that I wanted to make Fable the greatest role playing game of all time. I kinda still defend that because I honestly don't see the point in making a game that you don't honestly believe has a chance of being the greatest game of all time. I meet the press quite a lot, every 6-8 weeks there's some sort of press interview. The way I work then is to get a system in, play around with it, polish it, make it better. Sometimes I leave it as it is and sometimes I throw it away.

Continue reading Joystiq interviews Peter Molyneux of Lionhead Studios

JoystiqJoystiq interviews Peter Molyneux of Lionhead Studios originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 Jul 2006 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Lionhead Times has be updated with a few bits of info regarding Fable 2. Most of the info is just general development stuff, but there are a few interesting things to point out. For instance, the story of Fable 2 takes place 500 years after the events of Fable and The Lost Chapters, giving the game a richer history from which to build the story. The story is also planned to be longer than the original, which is definitely good news. Somewhat more cryptic, it's also revealed that the story could take a turn that will "shock" players.

Another little tidbit, the Fable 2 team now has to make "milestone" builds of the game in order to showcase the game's progress to the suits at Microsoft. The upshot of this is that we should get some insight on the game's progress as well. Fable 2 is one of the 360's heavy hitters so, rest assured that we'll keep you posted.

JoystiqA few Fable scraps originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Jul 2006 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fable 2Fable2lionheadlionhead studiosLionheadStudiosmicrosoft game studiosMicrosoftGameStudiosmolyneuxpeter molyneuxPeterMolyneuxMon, 10 Jul 2006 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Molyneux predicted a Revolution ... in '04]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/10/molyneux-predicted-a-revolution-in-04/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/10/molyneux-predicted-a-revolution-in-04/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/10/molyneux-predicted-a-revolution-in-04/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


During a demonstration of Fable, his then-upcoming RPG, at 2004's DICE conference, Peter Molynuex predicted that game controllers needed a revolution -- so to speak -- to accomodate the shift in game design. He said:

I reckon, and this is a real personal point of view, the greatest innovation in hardware won't come from the next graphics processor, or the next processor, or the next console, or even the next PC. Someone, somewhere will come up with an input device that enables us to do games that we haven't even imagined before ... somewhere, someone is going to come up with a second-generation controller because, I would argue, the controllers we have now were designed to actually move around 2D worlds, and they've been hybrided for 3D worlds, and they're still not good enough, and the number of times you have to go through and re-jig your game because of the controllers.

Sounds like the sagacious Molynuex would have loved to make a title using Nintendo's new controller; although, with last week's announcement that Microsoft finally bought Molyneux's Lionhead Studios, it looks like it ain't gonna happen.

[Thanks, k2switch]

JoystiqMolyneux predicted a Revolution ... in '04 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Apr 2006 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>LionheadLionhead StudiosLionhead-StudiosLionheadStudiosPeter MolyneuxPeterMolyneuxWiiXboxXbox-360Mon, 10 Apr 2006 14:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft's Lionhead acquisition official]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/06/microsofts-lionhead-acquisition-official/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/06/microsofts-lionhead-acquisition-official/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/04/06/microsofts-lionhead-acquisition-official/#commentsFiled under:

The GDC rumour mill had its finger on the pulse where Lionhead and Microsoft were concerned; Microsoft has acquired the British developer, beating out rumoured competition from EA and Ubisoft. It looks as though Microsoft were especially keen to grab Peter Molyneux -- they'll be putting his innovative approach to gaming to use on the Xbox 360 and Vista platforms.

This is good news for the struggling Lionhead, although whether it will help Molyneux's games sell any better is yet to be seen. As far as the UK games industry is concerned, international acquisitions like this (and Rare's before it) are interesting -- while there will always be smaller guys going it alone, there's a short supply of big-name British developers who are staying home-grown.

JoystiqMicrosoft's Lionhead acquisition official originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Apr 2006 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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