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[PixelJunk series goes on sale today, many for $1]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/08/pixeljunk-series-goes-on-sale-today-many-for-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/08/pixeljunk-series-goes-on-sale-today-many-for-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/08/pixeljunk-series-goes-on-sale-today-many-for-1/#comments
The PixelJunk collection goes on deep discount today later today on PSN, with some games on sale for a mere dollar. If you don't already have Racers, Monsters, Eden and Shooter, you absolutely should pick them up for a buck each.

PixelJunk Shooter 2 and SideScroller are both half-off for $5. The sale will conclude on May 15, when PixelJunk 4am will launch in a swirl of sounds and we can all taste the purple.

Those who live in the San Francisco area can attend the PixelJunk 4am Event this Thursday, May 10, at the Harlot. The first 75 attendees will receive a code for the game that they can activate when it goes live next week.

Gallery: PixelJunk 4am

JoystiqPixelJunk series goes on sale today, many for $1 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 May 2012 11:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>PixelJunkPixelJunk-Edenpixeljunk-monsterspixeljunk-racerspixeljunk-shooterPixelJunk-Shooter-2playstationps3q-gamesTue, 08 May 2012 11:40:00 EST<![CDATA[PixelJunk Monsters Facebook ready for wave after wave of players]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/16/pixeljunk-monsters-facebook-ready-for-wave-after-wave-of-players/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/16/pixeljunk-monsters-facebook-ready-for-wave-after-wave-of-players/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/16/pixeljunk-monsters-facebook-ready-for-wave-after-wave-of-players/#comments PixelJunk Monsters Online, the first entry in the PixelJunk franchise not to appear on PlayStation devices, is now in open beta on Facebook. Announced over the summer, PixelJunk Monsters Online is based on the PSN tower defense game, which has sold over 500,000 units. Now you can play it while waiting for TPS reports to collate.

PJO features the tower defense gameplay of the original along with a world map, and sees players defending their lands from waves of monsters. The objective is to collect gold and gems to expand territory and defend more tiles -- of course, your friends will be doing the same. That's when the fighting starts, followed by nasty Facebook messages, and eventually it culminates in a peace accord over buffalo wings at T.G.I. Fridays.

Gallery: PixelJunk Monsters Online (Facebook)

JoystiqPixelJunk Monsters Facebook ready for wave after wave of players originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Dec 2011 10:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>FacebookmacpcPixelJunk-MonstersPixelJunk-Monsters-OnlineQ-GamesFri, 16 Dec 2011 10:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Browser-based Pixeljunk Monsters coming later this year]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/22/browser-based-pixeljunk-monsters-coming-later-this-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/22/browser-based-pixeljunk-monsters-coming-later-this-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/22/browser-based-pixeljunk-monsters-coming-later-this-year/#comments Yesterday, during the Casual Connect conference, Q-Games' Jesse Venbrux revealed the new browser-based PixelJunk Monsters game, the first PixelJunk game not to be tied to a PlayStation platform.

A press release from Q-Games offered just a bit more information about the upcoming game, which appears to be officially titled PixelJunk Monsters: Social Network Version. The browser version will be free-to-play when it launches this year. As seen in the first screenshot, it features a new world map.

Speaking of screenshots, Q-Games included a couple more, which we've placed in the browser-based, free-to-play gallery below.

Gallery: PixelJunk Monsters: Social Network Version

Continue reading Browser-based Pixeljunk Monsters coming later this year

JoystiqBrowser-based Pixeljunk Monsters coming later this year originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Jul 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserpcpixeljunkPixelJunk-Monsterspixeljunk-monsters-social-network-versionq-gamesFri, 22 Jul 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PixelJunk Monsters migrating to browsers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/pixeljunk-monsters-migrating-to-browsers/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/pixeljunk-monsters-migrating-to-browsers/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/pixeljunk-monsters-migrating-to-browsers/#comments As the nation's nerd and nerd-adjacent humans sully themselves with the masses at Comic-Con, attractive casual game developers are wining and dining at Casual Connect in Seattle. Sandwiched in between said wining and simultaneous dining are talks like the one today from Q-Games designer Jesse Venbrux. As promised last week, Venbrux unveiled the new Q-Games project: A browser-based PixelJunk Monsters game.

According to PSN Stores, the new version of the tower defense title will feature a less linear design, smaller levels, new towers and monsters and, of course, additional social features to compliment services like Facebook. From what little information is available, it seems like there's little that won't be revamped in the browser that is, for the moment, untitled.

JoystiqPixelJunk Monsters migrating to browsers originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 21 Jul 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserbrowser-basedcasual-connectfacebookmacpcpixeljunk-monstersq-gamesThu, 21 Jul 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Q-Games' Dylan Cuthbert considering PixelJunk Monsters 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/24/q-games-dylan-cuthbert-considering-pixeljunk-monsters-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/24/q-games-dylan-cuthbert-considering-pixeljunk-monsters-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/24/q-games-dylan-cuthbert-considering-pixeljunk-monsters-2/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Q-Games has retooled, tweaked and enhanced nearly every game in the PixelJunk series thus far. However, PixelJunk Shooter 2 is the first true sequel in the franchise. Considering the vast amount of new features thrown into the upcoming PSN game, Cuthbert argues that it merits a numeric bump in the title. (We'd agree!) But would he consider making a true sequel to one of the earlier PixelJunk games?

The answer appears to be yes. "We want to make a PixelJunk Monsters 2," Cuthbert said during a Tokyo Game Show meeting. However, even if the team began working on a Monsters 2, it would likely be a long time coming. Cuthbert said a sequel could be part of Q-Games' envisioned "Series 2, so it will be 3D in some way." (Series 2 would be a second set of PixelJunk games designed with 3D graphics, as opposed to the studio's current set of games, "Series 1," which are all 2D games.)

JoystiqQ-Games' Dylan Cuthbert considering PixelJunk Monsters 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Sep 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dylan-cuthbertPixelJunk-Monsterspixeljunk-monsters-2playstationps3psnq-gamestgs-2010Fri, 24 Sep 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PixelJunk Monsters Deluxe on UMD in North America this April]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/18/pixeljunk-monsters-deluxe-on-umd-in-north-america-this-april/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/18/pixeljunk-monsters-deluxe-on-umd-in-north-america-this-april/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/18/pixeljunk-monsters-deluxe-on-umd-in-north-america-this-april/#commentsFor that cross-section of the PSP audience that likes both PixelJunk Monsters and tangible objects, Q-Games's Dylan Cuthbert has announced a UMD release of PixelJunk Monsters Deluxe, due to launch in North America at "participating retail outlets" on April 27 for $19.99. The tower defense title has been available digitally since last fall.

Interestingly, Cuthbert originally cited piracy as the reason for the lack of a worldwide release for the UMD of Deluxe, previously released in Japan and elsewhere in Asia. Try not to pirate this one, so we can see more nice discs like this in the future.

JoystiqPixelJunk Monsters Deluxe on UMD in North America this April originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 18 Mar 2010 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dylan-cuthbertpixeljunkpixeljunk-monsterspixeljunk-monsters-deluxeq-gamesumdThu, 18 Mar 2010 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Best of the Rest: Andrew's Picks of 2009]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/02/best-of-the-rest-andrews-picks-of-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/02/best-of-the-rest-andrews-picks-of-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/02/best-of-the-rest-andrews-picks-of-2009/#comments Flower
This year had a number of terrific downloadable games (this list is a testament to that), however no game -- retail or digital -- connected with me like Flower. Jenova Chen's flOw was an interesting experiment, but Flower is an actual game. In fact, Flower is one of the few experiences I can think of that show the true potential of games as a unique storytelling medium. No other non-interactive art form will ever be able to replicate what thatgamecompany has managed to create.

Continue reading Best of the Rest: Andrew's Picks of 2009

JoystiqBest of the Rest: Andrew's Picks of 2009 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 02 Jan 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best-of-the-rest-2009call-of-dutycall-of-duty-modern-warfare-2comet-crashdigital-comicsDissidiadissidia-final-fantasyeaEA-Canadaea-sportsElectronic-Artsfat-princessfight-nightfight-night-round-4Fightingfinal-fantasyflowerguerrilla-gameskillzonekillzone-2modern-warfarePelfastpixeljunk-monsterspixeljunk-monsters-deluxepsnq-entertainmentresident-evilresident-evil-5rock-bandrock-band-unpluggedRTSSportsSquare-EnixStrategythatgamecompanythqufcufc-undisputed-2009XboxyukesSat, 02 Jan 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Piracy discourages future PixelJunk PSP port plans]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/19/piracy-discourages-future-pixeljunk-psp-port-plans/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/19/piracy-discourages-future-pixeljunk-psp-port-plans/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/19/piracy-discourages-future-pixeljunk-psp-port-plans/#comments
Q-Games president Dylan Cuthbert has suggested that rampant piracy of his studio's optimized PSP port, PixelJunk Monsters Deluxe (PJMD), has deterred its plans for further PSP development. "I don't think we'll port anything else to the PSP, we have to see how PJMD does as there's a *lot* of piracy," Cuthbert tweeted over the weekend. Perhaps constrained by character limitations or simply caught up in another Uncharted 2 sesh, Cuthbert did not cite piracy estimates -- nor sales figures, for that matter. He did, however, confirm a demo is in the works; "but I don't think it makes any difference to piracy," Cuthbert lamented.

Cuthbert added in a follow-up tweet, "because Monsters is such a good fit it is being pirated I think," and then he responded to a suggestion to incorporate anti-piracy measures into the game code with: "unfortunately the pirates could just hack those kinds of things out." While the PSP Go has yet to be fully unlocked by would-be pirates and download-only PSN titles seem to be well protected from piracy, PJMD is available on UMD (in Japan and the greater Asia region), which has no doubt lead to the distribution of pirated versions of the game.

While it's somewhat naive of Q-Games to not have anticipated a piracy issue, it's no less disheartening. The PSP has long suffered from a lack of consistent third-party support because of a history of sales losses due to piracy. Q-Games is just the latest developer hesitant to commit further resources to supporting the PSP platform, and without the release of an impossibility firm firmware, it won't be the last.

Update: Cuthbert reemphasizes that PJMD sales will be the key determining factor that drives Q-Games' future in PSP development. Cuthbert's studio has not definitely dropped PSP development, but ostensibly low sales over the first three weeks of PJMD availability have Q-Games in some doubt about pursuing further PSP projects. Of course, a sales spike could certainly change that attitude.

[Via Examiner; thanks, Marcus N.]

JoystiqPiracy discourages future PixelJunk PSP port plans originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Oct 2009 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dylan-cuthbertpiracypixeljunkpixeljunk-monsterspixeljunk-monsters-deluxepjmdportsq-gamesMon, 19 Oct 2009 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PixelJunk Monsters Deluxe gets DIY compatibility fix]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/17/pixeljunk-monsters-deluxe-gets-diy-compatibility-fix/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/17/pixeljunk-monsters-deluxe-gets-diy-compatibility-fix/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/17/pixeljunk-monsters-deluxe-gets-diy-compatibility-fix/#comments
Recent connection issues have marred European PixelJunk Monsters Deluxe owners from participating in rousing online games against North American and Asian players. Thankfully, the PlayStation Blog has released a two-part DIY guide to help fix the PSP game's issues. The process is simple:
  1. Delete your game through the PSP Home Menu (select Game>Memory Stick>press the triangle button with PixelJunk Monsters Deluxe highlighted and select Delete).
  2. Connect to PlayStation Store > Select View Downloads and re-download PixelJunk Monsters Deluxe from the Download List.
Users will still retain their previous progress and now (hopefully) be completely problem free in their quest for online Deluxe dominance.

Gallery: PixelJunk Monsters Deluxe

JoystiqPixelJunk Monsters Deluxe gets DIY compatibility fix originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 17 Oct 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DIYdo-it-yourselfonline-issuespixeljunkpixeljunk-monsterspixeljunk-monsters-deluxepsnq-gamessanta-monica-studiosceascea-santa-monicaSony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericaSat, 17 Oct 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PixelJunk Monsters Deluxe invading PSP this week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/28/pixeljunk-monsters-deluxe-invading-psp-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/28/pixeljunk-monsters-deluxe-invading-psp-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/28/pixeljunk-monsters-deluxe-invading-psp-this-week/#commentsQ-Games' adorable tower defense title PixelJunk Monsters is getting a wee bit smaller this week with the release of its somewhat ironically named, PSP-sized adaptation, PixelJunk Monsters Deluxe. Though technically tinier in stature, the game offers all the strategic defending of the PS3 version of the title, while adding a new island, new monsters and even a few new towers into the mix. The game also gets a few multiplayer options, including a local four-player cooperative mode and an eight-player online competitive mode.

We've yet to confirm a price for the title, which will presumably appear in this week's PSN Thursday update, but we've contacted Q-Games to try to find out ahead of time.

Gallery: PixelJunk Monsters Deluxe

JoystiqPixelJunk Monsters Deluxe invading PSP this week originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Sep 2009 13:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>pixeljunkpixeljunk-monsterspixeljunk-monsters-deluxepsnq-gamesMon, 28 Sep 2009 13:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on: PixelJunk Monsters Deluxe (PSP)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/hands-on-pixeljunk-monsters-deluxe-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/hands-on-pixeljunk-monsters-deluxe-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/hands-on-pixeljunk-monsters-deluxe-psp/#comments
PixelJunk Monsters is certainly not the first tower defense game, but it's the game that popularized the genre on consoles. When it debuted on PlayStation Network last year, it became an instant hit. The game was easy to understand, but deceptively challenging, encouraging players to master each level to get that all-elusive rainbow.

The original PS3 game actually was playable on the PSP via Remote Play. However, Q Games is now making a proper PSP version that's optimized for the small screen. For example, the camera is now zoomed in closer to the character. While this means less of the map can be seen at once, it makes seeing the towers and choosing the right ones much easier. It may take some time for PixelJunk vets to get used to, especially when the screen scrolls trying to follow you.

The amount of content being offered in Deluxe is almost absurd, making it the most complete version of Monsters to date. Not only does the PSP game feature allt he content of the original PixelJunk Monsters, it also adds the Encore island and a brand new island exclusive to PSP. Ten new stages are added, in addition to new enemy types and towers.

Gallery: PixelJunk Monsters Deluxe

Continue reading Hands-on: PixelJunk Monsters Deluxe (PSP)

JoystiqHands-on: PixelJunk Monsters Deluxe (PSP) originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Jun 2009 07:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2009pixeljunk-monsterspixeljunk-monsters-deluxeq-gamesThu, 04 Jun 2009 07:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PixelJunk Monsters Deluxe coming to PSP this Fall]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/29/pixeljunk-monsters-deluxe-coming-to-psp-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/29/pixeljunk-monsters-deluxe-coming-to-psp-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/29/pixeljunk-monsters-deluxe-coming-to-psp-this-fall/#comments
PixelJunk Monsters is coming to PSP and, as promised, features a ton of new content not found in the PS3 version. The handheld version of the tower defense game will include all the content of PixelJunk Monsters, Encore, and a bit more. Deluxe will add a new island with ten new stages, new enemies and new music tracks. Two new towers will be introduced into the game, which players can utilize in the classic stages and Q-Games will also challenge the PJM hardcore with a brand new boss as well.

Although PSP isn't getting Trophy support yet, Monsters Deluxe will feature a "Medal Challenge" mode that replicates the achievement system used on the console. In addition, unlocking Medals will give players access to unlockables, such as videos, artwork and more.

Finally, PixelJunk Monsters wouldn't be complete without a co-op mode. You'll be able to go online in both Ad-Hoc and Infrastructure modes. Nice!

Gallery: PixelJunk Monsters Deluxe

Continue reading PixelJunk Monsters Deluxe coming to PSP this Fall

JoystiqPixelJunk Monsters Deluxe coming to PSP this Fall originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Apr 2009 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>pixeljunk-monsterspixeljunk-monsters-deluxeq-gamessony-gamers-day-09Wed, 29 Apr 2009 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[PixelJunk Monsters may shrink to UMD this June]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/22/pixeljunk-monsters-may-shrink-to-umd-this-june/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/22/pixeljunk-monsters-may-shrink-to-umd-this-june/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/22/pixeljunk-monsters-may-shrink-to-umd-this-june/#comments
Import retailer Play-Asia has listed a June release for the upcoming PSP version of PixelJunk Monsters. The handheld version of the popular tower defense game will feature all the content found in the PS3 game ... and then some. Considering the PSP game will be a full UMD release over in Asia, it's going to need a lot of content to justify its non-budget price.

It'll be interesting to see how SCEA decides on distributing the game here in America. echochrome released as a full UMD game in Asia, but released as a PlayStation Network exclusive here. Perhaps a similar solution will be implemented here.

[Via PSPHyper]

JoystiqPixelJunk Monsters may shrink to UMD this June originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Apr 2009 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>pixeljunk-monstersplay-asiapsnWed, 22 Apr 2009 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PixelJunk packed 3-in-1 trunk for Asia]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/03/pixeljunk-packed-3-in-1-trunk-for-asia/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/03/pixeljunk-packed-3-in-1-trunk-for-asia/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/03/pixeljunk-packed-3-in-1-trunk-for-asia/#comments
The PSN PixelJunk series will be bundled in the PixelJunk 3in1 Pack for the Asian market, reports Siliconera. The bundle will include Racers, Monsters and Eden. All games have English or Japanese language options, but there's no word yet if the disc includes the Monsters expansion or the Eden soundtrack.

Although we've yet to hear back from Sony Europe, Sony America let us know that it has no "official announcements at this time about the PixelJunk series." If the region didn't deserve a hard copy for Siren: Blood Curse's 9 gigglebytes, what chance does PixelJunk have? Ending on a good note: at least PS3 games aren't region locked.

[Update: Q Games president Dylan Cuthbert confirmed to Joystiq that this PixelJunk pack is Asia-only. "Right now, this special bundle is for Asia only."]

JoystiqPixelJunk packed 3-in-1 trunk for Asia originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Mar 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>pixeljunkpixeljunk-edenpixeljunk-monsterspixeljunk-monsters-encorepixeljunk-racerssiliconeraTue, 03 Mar 2009 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PSP version of PixelJunk Monsters features 50% more content]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/28/psp-version-of-pixeljunk-monsters-features-50-more-content/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/28/psp-version-of-pixeljunk-monsters-features-50-more-content/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/28/psp-version-of-pixeljunk-monsters-features-50-more-content/#comments
People just can't get enough PixelJunk Monsters. PS3 fans fell in love with this charming tower defense game, leading to the release of the Encore expansion pack and subsequent Trophy patch. PSP owners are in for a treat as they'll be receiving their own version of the game later this year.

What will Monsters PSP feature? We're expecting the same content featured in the PS3 games, but Dylan Cuthbert promises there will be even more stuff in the PSP game. In an interview with Core Gamers, he reveals the team is currently "adding 50% more content or more" to the game. Those that have played both Monsters and Encore know well that this is a massive amount of content. How will we possibly get rainbows on all of these levels?

When asked if PixelJunk Eden, the third of Q-Games' downloadable games on PS3, would also receive PSP treatment, Cuthbert seemed doubtful. Eden is a far more complex, processor-intense game. "Never say never of course, but it would be quite a challenge and a number of things might have to be changed."

JoystiqPSP version of PixelJunk Monsters features 50% more content originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Jan 2009 13:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dylan-cuthbertpixeljunkpixeljunk-edenpixeljunk-monstersq-gamesWed, 28 Jan 2009 13:27:00 EST<![CDATA[PixelJunk Eden nominated for three Independent Game Awards]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/07/pixeljunk-eden-nominated-for-three-independant-game-awards/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/07/pixeljunk-eden-nominated-for-three-independant-game-awards/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/07/pixeljunk-eden-nominated-for-three-independant-game-awards/#commentsFiled under:

Nominations for the Independent Games Festival Awards 2009 have been announced today and one of our favorite PSN titles, PixelJunk Eden, has been nominated for three categories. The categories are: Excellence in Visual Art, Excellence in Audio and Technical Excellence. Eden is one of few console games to be nominated in this year's awards, and the only PlayStation Network title to get recognition.

The winners will be revealed at the Independent Games Festival which takes place in San Francisco between March 23rd and 27th. If you want to learn more about all the games on the list be sure to check out Joystiq's IGF nominee run-down. Good luck to PixelJunk Eden, there's some strong competition there.

JoystiqPixelJunk Eden nominated for three Independent Game Awards originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Jan 2009 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>IGFigf-2009independent-games-festivalpixeljunkpixeljunk-monstersq-gamesWed, 07 Jan 2009 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PixelJunk Monsters invading PSP in 2009]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/19/pixeljunk-monsters-invading-psp-in-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/19/pixeljunk-monsters-invading-psp-in-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/19/pixeljunk-monsters-invading-psp-in-2009/#commentsFiled under: ,


The diabolically addictive PS3 tower defense game, PixelJunk Monsters, is officially headed to PSP next year (which, if you haven't checked your calendar, is pretty soon). Appearing on Spike TV's "The Next Great Game Gods" VGA tie-in special, Q Games founder, Dylan Cuthbert, confirmed - and very briefly showed - the game.

After a short show-and-tell of conceptual images for canned projects - which included skiing and fighting games - Cuthbert broke the news, saying that, "We got a lot of requests from fan mail and stuff saying they really wanted a PSP-native version [of PixelJunk Monsters]." But the game won't merely be the PSN title retooled for the small screen. "We thought, rather than just port it directly, let's add a bit more," Cuthbert teased. You can watch the full segment (Cuthbert appears about half-way through) after the break.

[Thanks, Chris]

Continue reading PixelJunk Monsters invading PSP in 2009

JoystiqPixelJunk Monsters invading PSP in 2009 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Dec 2008 18:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dylan-cuthbertpixeljunkpixeljunk-monsterspixeljunk-monsters-pspPSPq-gamessceaSony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericaFri, 19 Dec 2008 18:51:00 EST<![CDATA[PixelJunk Monsters coming to PSP]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/19/pixeljunk-monsters-coming-to-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/19/pixeljunk-monsters-coming-to-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/19/pixeljunk-monsters-coming-to-psp/#commentsFiled under:

Looks like more PS3 games are coming to the PSP. The popular tower defense game, PixelJunk Monsters, is heading to the PSP. In fact, there's going to be more content than ever before. This is great news, especially because we're not too fond of using Remote Play to stream games. We can't wait to see more when the game comes out in 2009. To find out more about the game, check out all the news on PS3 Fanboy.

[Thanks, Top_Slacker!]

JoystiqPixelJunk Monsters coming to PSP originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Dec 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingpixeljunkpixeljunk-monsterspspq-gamesFri, 19 Dec 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PixelJunk Monsters coming to PSP]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/19/pixeljunk-monsters-coming-to-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/19/pixeljunk-monsters-coming-to-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/19/pixeljunk-monsters-coming-to-psp/#commentsFiled under:

Looks like more PS3 games are coming to the PSP. The popular tower defense game, PixelJunk Monsters, is heading to the PSP. In fact, there's going to be more content than ever before. This is great news, especially because we're not too fond of using Remote Play to stream games. We can't wait to see more when the game comes out in 2009. To find out more about the game, check out all the news on PS3 Fanboy.

[Thanks, Top_Slacker!]

JoystiqPixelJunk Monsters coming to PSP originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Dec 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>pixeljunkpixeljunk-monstersq-gamesFri, 19 Dec 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Help! PixelJunk Monsters patch isn't working! [Update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/31/help-pixeljunk-monsters-patch-isnt-working/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/31/help-pixeljunk-monsters-patch-isnt-working/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/31/help-pixeljunk-monsters-patch-isnt-working/#commentsFiled under:


So ... Did you get that PixelJunk Monsters patch yesterday? Neither did we. The patch is technically live and available for all. The problem is, the only way American users can get the patch right now is to download the game anew. To do that, you'll want to go to the PlayStation Store and click on the "View Downloads" button. Find and install PixelJunk Monsters -- it will already have the patch built in!

If that's too much work, don't worry. SCEA is currently investigating the situation. Hopefully, it won't be long before you can auto-magically get the new challenge and Trophy-enabled patch.

Update: The patch is now available when you launch the game.

JoystiqHelp! PixelJunk Monsters patch isn't working! [Update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 31 Oct 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>pixeljunkpixeljunk-monstersFri, 31 Oct 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PixelJunk Monsters version 2.00 patch now live]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/30/pixeljunk-monsters-version-2-00-patch-now-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/30/pixeljunk-monsters-version-2-00-patch-now-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/30/pixeljunk-monsters-version-2-00-patch-now-live/#commentsFiled under:

As if we don't have enough games to play already right now. The PixelJunk Monsters trophy patch is now live and ready to download. The trophy implementation is a little different to what you've seen in other games. You'll need to complete special Trophy Challenge levels in order to get your grubby mitts on them. The patch also adds new difficulty levels to the game as well as YouTube uploading. All for free and all ready for you to grab right now. If you live in Europe, that is. No doubt the patch will hit the US before the end of the day. We'll keep you updated.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

JoystiqPixelJunk Monsters version 2.00 patch now live originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Oct 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>patchpixeljunk-monstersq-gamestrophiesThu, 30 Oct 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Trophies: PixelJunk Monsters]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/23/trophies-pixeljunk-monsters/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/23/trophies-pixeljunk-monsters/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/23/trophies-pixeljunk-monsters/#commentsFiled under:


Read more 'PixelJunk Monsters' stories

Q-Games' popular tower defense game is getting a brand new mode: the Trophy challenge. This mode can only be done in single player, and has you completing levels with new objectives. This should add hours of new gameplay for those that have already mastered the game. The hidden Trophies can be completed in any game mode: just achieve the task.

Continue reading Trophies: PixelJunk Monsters

JoystiqTrophies: PixelJunk Monsters originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Oct 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>pixeljunkpixeljunk-monstersq-gamestrophiestrophyThu, 23 Oct 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PixelJunk Monsters, Encore updates on Oct. 30]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/22/pixeljunk-monsters-encore-updates-on-oct-30/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/22/pixeljunk-monsters-encore-updates-on-oct-30/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/22/pixeljunk-monsters-encore-updates-on-oct-30/#commentsFiled under: ,

pj monsters
Q-Games isn't reinventing the wheel, it's just slapping on a new set of tires, as PixelJunk Monsters and Encore expansion updates hit PSN next week. The October 30th patches will add Trophies and variable difficulties (including a "casual" mode), as promised, but the free upgrades don't stop there. In addition, the tower selection menu will be tweaked (with an option to set the default action), the Ice and Tesla Towers will be re-balanced for the original island, custom soundtracks will be supported, and YouTube uploading has been added (up to 10 minutes of gameplay -- videos can also be stored in the XMB's video folder). Now, about online co-op ...

If you fancy another go with these exciting details -- only this time in Dylan Cuthbert's drab British accent -- then by all means, head for the video preview after the break!

Continue reading PixelJunk Monsters, Encore updates on Oct. 30

JoystiqPixelJunk Monsters, Encore updates on Oct. 30 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Oct 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dylan-cuthbertpatchpixeljunkpixeljunk-monsterspixeljunk-monsters-encorePS3psnq-gamestrophiesupdateyoutubeWed, 22 Oct 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PixelJunk Monsters patch arriving before the end of the month]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/22/pixeljunk-monsters-patch-hitting-japan-before-the-end-of-the-mon/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/22/pixeljunk-monsters-patch-hitting-japan-before-the-end-of-the-mon/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/22/pixeljunk-monsters-patch-hitting-japan-before-the-end-of-the-mon/#commentsFiled under: ,

There's at least one PSN game which is universally loved: PixelJunk Monsters. We recently got a chance to play PJM at Q-Games' studios in Kyoto. However, it wasn't quite the same game we've grown to love: it's PixelJunk Monsters -- with an awesome patch.

The upcoming patch adds Trophy support, YouTube recording, new difficulty levels (Easy and Hard), and adjusts the strength of the towers a bit. For example, you'll have the ice tower available (no gems required!). Also, the Tesla tower's range has been increased.

We want to say more about the Trophy mode, but we're still awaiting approval from SCEA on how much we can divulge about that. We will give you one tease: you won't have to worry about these Trophies being retroactive. Update: So, the PlayStation.blog has just updated with the official details on the Trophy patch, which will be available on October 30th, in America and Europe. Watch Dylan Cuthbert talk about the details in this new video.

JoystiqPixelJunk Monsters patch arriving before the end of the month originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Oct 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>pixeljunkpixeljunk-monstersq-gamestrophiestrophyyoutubeWed, 22 Oct 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Buy PixelJunk Eden, get Monsters Encore for free]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/10/buy-pixeljunk-eden-get-monsters-encore-for-free/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/10/buy-pixeljunk-eden-get-monsters-encore-for-free/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/10/buy-pixeljunk-eden-get-monsters-encore-for-free/#commentsFiled under:


No one can doubt the incredible popularity of PixelJunk Monsters. That game continues to sell, months after its release. Now, the PixelJunk team wants you to try Eden, their latest game. As a bonus, they'll give you a free download of the Monsters Encore expansion. The add-on pack adds 15 new levels (and a random level generator). This should be a deal for those that love PJM and are looking for something new.

The deal ends on 10/16.

[Thanks, Remix!]

JoystiqBuy PixelJunk Eden, get Monsters Encore for free originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 10 Oct 2008 23:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>pixeljunk-edenpixeljunk-monstersFri, 10 Oct 2008 23:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Two artists, two PixelJunk soundtracks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/29/two-artists-two-pixeljunk-soundtracks/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/29/two-artists-two-pixeljunk-soundtracks/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/29/two-artists-two-pixeljunk-soundtracks/#commentsFiled under:


Our friends at Siliconera have found the creative minds behind the musical landscapes of both PixelJunk Monsters and PixelJunk Eden. The two games are PSN hits, and have rightfully cemented their places in the hearts of PS3 fans everywhere.

Otograph was approached about Monsters. Find out more about his inspirations and how Otograph met up with Q-Games for this interesting collaboration here.

Then, check out the next interview with Baiyon, one part DJ, one part art director. Find out more about his serendipitous meeting with Dylan Cuthbert, and how he was able to create the unique presentation for this most recent Q-Games project. Read it here. You can also order the PixelJunk Eden soundtrack at Amazon or Play-Asia.

JoystiqTwo artists, two PixelJunk soundtracks originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Sep 2008 00:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>baiyonotographpixeljunkpixeljunk-edenpixeljunk-monstersMon, 29 Sep 2008 00:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PixelJunk Monsters receiving difficulty settings with free patch]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/11/pixeljunk-monsters-receiving-difficulty-settings-with-free-patch/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/11/pixeljunk-monsters-receiving-difficulty-settings-with-free-patch/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/11/pixeljunk-monsters-receiving-difficulty-settings-with-free-patch/#commentsFiled under: , ,


After writing an open letter explaining his fiancée's frustrations with PixelJunk Monsters' difficulty, BPPS writer Ryan Hewson received a response back from Dylan Cuthbert, president of Q-Games, saying help was on the way. Cuthbert had alluded to a major PJM patch before, but now he explains some more details of what's coming to PJM and PixelJunk Eden.

The lord of PixelJunk says PJM will receive a free patch adding Trophies, along with Easy, Medium, Hard and Expert difficulties to the game. Online rankings will maintain the existing difficulty level for fairness -- which we guess is hard? Eden will also receive an expansion pack and may receive a "namby pamby mode" for a more casual experience -- we'd settle for some control mapping functions to seperate silk and jump ... not to mention mapping the instra-drop to a button instead of waggle. No dates on any of this, but we're contacting Sony about some form of ETA.

[Via PS3 Fanboy]

JoystiqPixelJunk Monsters receiving difficulty settings with free patch originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Aug 2008 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>pixeljunkpixeljunk-edenpixeljunk-monsterspixeljunk-monsters-encorePS3psnMon, 11 Aug 2008 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Difficulty settings coming to PixelJunk Monsters, new modes coming to Eden]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/10/difficulty-settings-coming-to-pixeljunk-monsters-new-modes-comi/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/10/difficulty-settings-coming-to-pixeljunk-monsters-new-modes-comi/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/10/difficulty-settings-coming-to-pixeljunk-monsters-new-modes-comi/#commentsFiled under:


Finding the PixelJunk games frustratingly difficult? You are not alone; one of the guys over at TheBBPS wrote an open e-mail to Dylan Cuthbert, executive producer at Q-games, humorously complaining that his wife finds PixelJunk Monsters just a tad bit too overwhelming and requests difficulty settings for the game. Cuthbert acknowledges his prayers, stating that an upcoming free patch to Monsters will include the ability to make the game easier, or harder, than the default setting. Altering the difficulty will disqualify you from online ranking though, for fairness' sake.

Cuthbert also hints a similar treatment in form of a new "more namby pamby" gameplay mode for PixelJunk Eden in a future expansion pack. He feels Eden's "controls are too much fun to waste on just one set of game rules." We can't wait!

[Thanks, Jim S.!]

JoystiqDifficulty settings coming to PixelJunk Monsters, new modes coming to Eden originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 10 Aug 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dylan-cuthbertpixeljunkpixeljunk-edenpixeljunk-monstersSun, 10 Aug 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PixelJunk Monsters dev teases Trophy patch]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/24/pixeljunk-monsters-dev-teases-trophy-patch/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/24/pixeljunk-monsters-dev-teases-trophy-patch/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/24/pixeljunk-monsters-dev-teases-trophy-patch/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Buried deep down on a PlayStation Blog post about PixelJunk Eden and the Trophies available in the game, is an odd little paragraph about possible Trophy support for PixelJunk Monsters. Dylan Cuthbert, president of Q-games, developers of PJM and PJE, mentions he's been "inundated" with requests for Trophy support in Monsters. He says the company is looking into it and will badger the game's producer at Sony, Deborah Mars, "to get some dates set."

The information is a bit ambiguous and we're guessing is designed as a tease for an incoming PJM patch. Cuthbert also says the patch will "implement XMB music and a couple of other things." Considering we know PlayStation Blog posts are "checked," information like this doesn't just slip by. Looks like we're going to have to stop playing PJM Encore and wait 'til that Trophy patch gets added, because we're guessing the achievements won't be applied retroactively.

JoystiqPixelJunk Monsters dev teases Trophy patch originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 Jul 2008 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>pixeljunkpixeljunk-monstersPS3psnThu, 24 Jul 2008 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PixelJunk Eden gets demo in July, Monsters may get free patch]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/13/pixeljunk-eden-gets-demo-in-july-monsters-may-get-free-patch/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/13/pixeljunk-eden-gets-demo-in-july-monsters-may-get-free-patch/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/13/pixeljunk-eden-gets-demo-in-july-monsters-may-get-free-patch/#commentsFiled under:

If you're curious about what's going on with Q-Games and the PixelJunk franchise, we've located a little bit of news to satisfy your 2D urges. First up -- PixelJunk Eden is to get a playable demo in July. This is coming from Dylan Cuthbert's mouth (well, technically, keyboard), so take it as official. Cuthbert wants everyone to experience the game before its final release, which is a nice gesture.

A second piece of information was the YouTube uploading feature, which isn't anything new, but still very cool. Finally, Cuthbert wants to do one more small, free patch to PixelJunk Monsters. He's requesting what you would like to see in the patch, so let him know. Our idea? A hint on how to best approach each level would be dandy.

JoystiqPixelJunk Eden gets demo in July, Monsters may get free patch originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Jun 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dylan-cuthbertpixeljunkpixeljunk-edenpixeljunk-monstersq-gamesFri, 13 Jun 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PixelJunk Monsters soundtrack only $2.99]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/22/pixeljunk-monsters-soundtrack-only-2-99/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/22/pixeljunk-monsters-soundtrack-only-2-99/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/22/pixeljunk-monsters-soundtrack-only-2-99/#commentsFiled under: ,

Talk about a deal. The first ever downloadable soundtrack to hit the PSN is coming today. Otograph's incredible tunes for PixelJunk Monsters will be available for download ... for only $2.99! We're certainly going to spend some of our virtual PlayStation monies to support Q-Games and Otograph in this endeavor -- how about you?

The PlayStation.blog features an interview with the quirky Japanese group behind the soundtrack. An excerpt: "The stages in Monsters are basically one screen so we attempted to use the music to expand the world beyond that for the player, and with just the music, our goal was to arouse the sensation in people to create puzzles."

JoystiqPixelJunk Monsters soundtrack only $2.99 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 22 May 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>otographpixeljunk-monstersThu, 22 May 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[American PSN Store update for May 8th]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/08/american-psn-store-update-for-may-8th/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/08/american-psn-store-update-for-may-8th/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/08/american-psn-store-update-for-may-8th/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Don't feel left out, Americans. Despite how it may feel, Europe isn't the only region getting PSN Store updates this week and today's US update is rather tasty. Between the demos, trailers and PixelJunk Monsters Encore there's more than enough content to keep everyone happy. If you're intrigued about PlayStation Day, however, and want to check out the keynote then, sadly you're out of luck. Here's the full release list:

Playable content
  • Rocketmen: Axis of Evil ($10 - game now available from store, rather than from within the demo)
  • Haze demo (free)
  • Bourne Conspiracy demo (free)
  • GRID demo (free)
Add-on content
  • PixelJunk Monsters: Encore ($6)
  • Rock Band DLC (found after the break, as usual)

Continue reading American PSN Store update for May 8th

JoystiqAmerican PSN Store update for May 8th originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 May 2008 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>pixeljunk-monsterspsn-storereleasesThu, 08 May 2008 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[PixelJunk Monsters expansion invades PSN this week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/07/pixeljunk-monsters-expansion-invades-psn-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/07/pixeljunk-monsters-expansion-invades-psn-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/07/pixeljunk-monsters-expansion-invades-psn-this-week/#commentsFiled under: ,


We probably shouldn't be telling you this, but updates on this site are very likely to cease tomorrow, what with the PSN update bringing us the expansion pack to Q-Games' addictive tower defense game, PixelJunk Monsters. Featuring a new island, 15 additional levels, five new music tracks and a $5.99 price tag, PixelJunk Monsters Encore will have us erecting towers for several days at least. Longer if we try to get all the rainbows.

Oh well, we suppose we'll just keep recycling all the posts about Grand Theft Auto IV.

[Via PS3 Fanboy]

JoystiqPixelJunk Monsters expansion invades PSN this week originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 May 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DLCExpansionPixeljunkPixelJunk-MonstersPixeljunk-Monsters-EncorePlayStation-NetworkPS3PSNWed, 07 May 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PixelJunk Monsters Encore expansion hits this week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/06/pixeljunk-monsters-encore-expansion-hits-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/06/pixeljunk-monsters-encore-expansion-hits-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/06/pixeljunk-monsters-encore-expansion-hits-this-week/#commentsFiled under:


PixelJunk fans rejoice. We told you that Encore would strike the PSN early this month ... and we were right! PixelJunk Monsters Encore brings more tower defense fun to the PS3 this week for a mere $5.99. That's cheaper than a beer at a baseball game. When Thursday comes, we're going to be going crazy chasing some rainbows. Will you join us?

JoystiqPixelJunk Monsters Encore expansion hits this week originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 May 2008 22:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>pixeljunk-monstersTue, 06 May 2008 22:15:00 EST<![CDATA[PixelJunk Monsters: originally like a Red Riding Hood game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/29/pixeljunk-monsters-originally-like-a-red-riding-hood-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/29/pixeljunk-monsters-originally-like-a-red-riding-hood-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/29/pixeljunk-monsters-originally-like-a-red-riding-hood-game/#commentsFiled under:

Last time we heard anything from Q Games and Dylan Cuthbert about PixelJunk Monsters: Encore, we told you the Ice Tower was coming standard and the Tesla tower was getting a lowered cost. Japan got the game last week, but the rest of the world is still waiting. Now we get to hear from SCEA Santa Monica on the game's progress for US release. In their talk with Cuthbert, there are a lot of queries answered but even more to come, so we're only going to graze over what's most important and leave it to you to check out the rest.

The game took Encore as its title because, well, it's like at the end of a concert -- you just want a little bit more (plus it was easier for the Japanese crowd to understand). Also, some people complained of plasma TV's getting the game burned onto their screen because they just couldn't stop playing -- there's now an anti-burn option on the game's menu to prevent that.

As for Cuthbert himself, his favorite level in the expansion is Racer Gardens, since it's based off of a PixelJunk Racers design. He even gives you a hint on how to beat it -- the big guys always cross the bridge! Interestingly, the game's overall design is based off of Red Riding Hood concepts. At first, our Tiki hero was the girl in red, protecting grandma's house from wolves ... we're exaggerating, but that would have been the basic concept, for sure. Eventually, the design we see now took over. More information to come!

JoystiqPixelJunk Monsters: originally like a Red Riding Hood game originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 Apr 2008 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dylan-cuthbertpixeljunkpixeljunk-monstersq-gamesTue, 29 Apr 2008 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PixelJunk Monsters Encore out in Japan, where's ours? [Update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/24/pixeljunk-monsters-encore-out-in-japan-wheres-ours/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/24/pixeljunk-monsters-encore-out-in-japan-wheres-ours/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/24/pixeljunk-monsters-encore-out-in-japan-wheres-ours/#commentsFiled under:

If you've recently checked your Japanese PSN account, you may have noticed that PixelJunk Monsters Encore is already available for download. The expansion pack that brings you to the whole new Toki Island, adding in 15 new missions, is priced at ¥600 (US$5.77).

That's all well and good for Japan, but what about North America? Will we be seeing a similar price point? And where exactly is our North American expansion? It was given an ambiguous April 2008 release schedule, but has yet to come out all month ... until now -- at least for Japan anyway.

We're probably jumping the gun on this one. The North American PlayStation Store has yet been updated today, so there's still a good chance this much wanted add-on will sneak up on there. Although, a stealth release is not of the norm; if the game was ready, we would have heard about it by now. We guess we'll find out soon enough, won't we?

[Update: We contacted SCEA. Encore is currently scheduled for an early May release. And by early, we mean really early. Stay tuned.]

JoystiqPixelJunk Monsters Encore out in Japan, where's ours? [Update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 Apr 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>pixeljunk-monsterspixeljunk-monsters-encoreq-gamesThu, 24 Apr 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[What's new in PixelJunk Monsters Encore?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/31/whats-new-in-pixeljunk-monsters-encore/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/31/whats-new-in-pixeljunk-monsters-encore/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/31/whats-new-in-pixeljunk-monsters-encore/#commentsFiled under: ,

First and foremost, Q Games' Dylan Cuthbert said before this PixelJunk Monsters expansion would be released sooner rather than later. It is so. The expansion is due out sometime in April. That's pretty quick, especially if you spent last night with a friend getting perfect scores on every single map in the original. But anyway, what's new in Encore, the expansion?

A new island, Toki Island, is available with 15 new missions. The maps for the missions look quite experimental and different from much of the original island (Tiki Island). At the beginning of missions, you'll now have instant access to the mostly-useless Ice Tower. The cost of the Tesla Tower has decreased to only 10 jewels. You'll have to earn the abilities from the original game again (like running, land mine, et cetera). There's also a strange little bonus island whose purpose is unknown right now. There are also five new music tracks. We're excited, but until we get word of the final build, that's all we know for now.

JoystiqWhat's new in PixelJunk Monsters Encore? originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 31 Mar 2008 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>pixeljunk-monsterspixeljunk-monsters-encoreMon, 31 Mar 2008 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Spring PSN lineup dated]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/28/spring-psn-lineup-dated/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/28/spring-psn-lineup-dated/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/28/spring-psn-lineup-dated/#commentsFiled under:

elefunk
Sony recently showed off near-final builds of its next wave of original PSN games, and even committed to release time frames, according to MTV Multiplayer. Though weekly releases on the PS Store are largely kept behind the big, black curtain until showtime, it appears that Sony is trying to steal some attention away from the recent bevy of WiiWare boloney "buildup" and the well-oiled Xbox Live Arcade machine by generating previews of its own. So how 'bout those dates:

JoystiqSpring PSN lineup dated originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 28 Mar 2008 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EchochromeelefunkGame-YarouzeJapan-Studiopixeljunkpixeljunk-monsterspixeljunk-monsters-encorePS3psnPuzzleSCESony-Computer-Entertainmentwipeoutwipeout-hdFri, 28 Mar 2008 18:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Q-Games' Cuthbert: PixelJunk Monsters on PSP most likely not happening]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/05/q-games-cuthbert-pixeljunk-monsters-on-psp-most-likely-not-hap/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/05/q-games-cuthbert-pixeljunk-monsters-on-psp-most-likely-not-hap/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/05/q-games-cuthbert-pixeljunk-monsters-on-psp-most-likely-not-hap/#commentsFiled under:

In a portion of an interview with PS3 Fanboy, Q-Games' Dylan Cuthbert explains why we probably won't be seeing PixelJunk Monsters making a transition onto the PSP. Cuthbert told PS3 Fanboy that he doesn't "see a market for it just yet." He stated that the biggest problem is in selling the game at a proper price point, and he doesn't see consumers shelling out extra cash for a more expensive UMD version.

However, UMD has never been the only option; when it was mentioned that the PSP now supports downloaded content from the PlayStation Store, Cuthbert replied that the idea for a downloaded PSP version was not feasible because the service was not popular in Japan. He was saying that it's difficult to get excited about making a game for a service very few use. His reasoning then turned from being unappealing to Japan into not wanting to get "pigeonholed into working [solely] for the US market."

Further more, when faced with the example of echochrome going on UMD, Cuthbert still wasn't convinced that PixelJunk Monsters would find a home on the portable system. Well, we guess we'll just have to stick to Remote Play for our portable PixelJunk needs.

JoystiqQ-Games' Cuthbert: PixelJunk Monsters on PSP most likely not happening originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Mar 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cuthbertdylan-cuthbertdylancuthbertpixeljunk-monsterspixeljunkmonstersq-gamesqgamesWed, 05 Mar 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 Fanboy interview: Q-Games' Dylan Cuthbert]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/05/ps3-fanboy-interview-q-games-dylan-cuthbert/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/05/ps3-fanboy-interview-q-games-dylan-cuthbert/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/05/ps3-fanboy-interview-q-games-dylan-cuthbert/#commentsFiled under: ,


Dylan Cuthbert should be a name familiar to any real PS3 fan. Responsible for Q-Games, and their PixelJunk series of PSN games, the team has been hard at work at delivering unique experiences exclusively for the PLAYSTATION Network. Not only has the team delivered one truly stellar game (PixelJunk Monsters), it has worked on a few other technologies for Sony. Did you know that they're responsible for the Earth music visualization? We chatted with Cuthbert at GDC, and we're proud to present our interview.

I wanted to start with a topic that I'm sure no one has asked you about yet. Q-Games is responsible for the Earth visualizer, yes? Where did that come from?
Well, we've always had a close relationship with Sony. They came to us and asked us to make an intro for the PS3 before it came out. For the OS and everything. They had these ideas that were like the earth, and the PS3 logo were in a bubble. So we said instead of making a fake earth, we should make a proper rendering. We showed a prototype to them, but ultimately Sony wanted to go for a more simpler style. The intro became much simpler, orchestral. So we had a very well rendered earth and we didn't know what to do with it.

Continue reading PS3 Fanboy interview: Q-Games' Dylan Cuthbert

JoystiqPS3 Fanboy interview: Q-Games' Dylan Cuthbert originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Mar 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dylan-cuthbertinterviewjoystiqfeaturespixeljunkpixeljunk-monsterspixeljunk-racersq-gamesremote-playWed, 05 Mar 2008 10:30:00 EST