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[XBLM discounts PopCap games this week, Borderlands and Red Dead next]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/29/xblm-discounts-popcap-games-this-week-borderlands-and-red-dead/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/29/xblm-discounts-popcap-games-this-week-borderlands-and-red-dead/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/29/xblm-discounts-popcap-games-this-week-borderlands-and-red-dead/#comments ImageIf Mad Riders and the two Sega Vintage Collections coming to XBLA this week don't fill absolutely all of your time, you can occupy every spare second with discounted PopCap games. From today through June 4, PopCap games on XBLA are half off, including Plants vs. Zombies, Peggle, Zumba, Bejeweled 3, and more.

Next week, Borderlands DLC will be half off, as will the Red Dead Redemption Undead Nightmare Collection and, why not, Sega Bass Fishing. We know there must be someone who has time to play games next week, but we don't want to hear about it.

JoystiqXBLM discounts PopCap games this week, Borderlands and Red Dead next originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 May 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>borderlandsmajor-nelsonmicrosoftpopcapred-dead-redemptionxblaxblmxboxTue, 29 May 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Plants vs. Zombies iOS receives hefty update]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/plants-vs-zombies-ios-receives-hefty-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/plants-vs-zombies-ios-receives-hefty-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/plants-vs-zombies-ios-receives-hefty-update/#comments PopCap has released updates to the iPad and iPhone versions of Plants vs. Zombies, bringing it more in line with its non-mobile counterparts. The iPad version sees the bulk of the updates, adding several new game modes, mini-games, achievements and leaderboards. Specifically, it adds the Zen Garden, Vasebreaker Endless and I, Zombie modes, along with the Slot Machine mini-game. An optional mini-game pack including Zombiquarium, Portal Combat and Beghouled Twist can also be unlocked with in-game currency (earned either through gameplay or, you guessed it, in-app purchase).

The iPhone and iPod Touch version, meanwhile, receives only the Vasebreaker mode, additional achievements and leaderboards. The update is available now. Whether or not you have any free time available, well, that's something else entirely.

Continue reading Plants vs. Zombies iOS receives hefty update

JoystiqPlants vs. Zombies iOS receives hefty update originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamecenteriosipadiphonemobilePlants-vs-ZombiespopcapThu, 19 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Zuma's Revenge headed to XBLA this summer with new modes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/zumas-revenge-headed-to-xbla-this-summer-with-new-modes/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/zumas-revenge-headed-to-xbla-this-summer-with-new-modes/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/zumas-revenge-headed-to-xbla-this-summer-with-new-modes/#comments After more than six years, one of the Xbox 360's first XBLA games, Zuma, is finally getting a sequel. Well, to be more accurate, Zuma's Revenge came out in 2009, but PopCap is finally bringing the puzzler to Xbox Live Arcade this summer. The sequel will bring with it several new additions exclusive to XBLA, including a Boss Rush mode, weekly challenges and "an all-new player progression system via Spirit Animal companions." The game is slated to arrive on XBLA this summer for 800 MS Points ($10), with a retail edition coming to North America at a later date.

If you've somehow avoided Zuma's particular brand of PopCap addiction, the game tasks players with quickly destroying an ever advancing snake of colored balls by -- you guessed it -- matching up three or more balls of the same color. You've been warned.

Continue reading Zuma's Revenge headed to XBLA this summer with new modes

JoystiqZuma's Revenge headed to XBLA this summer with new modes originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftpopcaprelease-datexblaxboxzumas-revengeTue, 20 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Plants vs. Zombies looks just as fun on the Vita]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/19/plants-vs-zombies-looks-just-as-fun-on-the-vita/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/19/plants-vs-zombies-looks-just-as-fun-on-the-vita/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/19/plants-vs-zombies-looks-just-as-fun-on-the-vita/#comments Different menus? Nope, same options as always, same touchscreen choices as iOS. Wall-nuts and peashooters? Still there. Zombie handwriting and spelling? Still really, really poor.

Gallery: Plants vs. Zombies (Vita)

JoystiqPlants vs. Zombies looks just as fun on the Vita originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Jan 2012 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Plants-vs-Zombiesplaystationplaystation-vitapopcappopcap-gamesvitaThu, 19 Jan 2012 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Plants vs. Zombies iPhone receives holiday update, 'I, Zombie' mode]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/15/plants-vs-zombies-iphone-receives-holiday-update-i-zombie-m/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/15/plants-vs-zombies-iphone-receives-holiday-update-i-zombie-m/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/15/plants-vs-zombies-iphone-receives-holiday-update-i-zombie-m/#comments Plants vs. Zombies for iPhone has received an update for the holidays, featuring festive cheer, minor user improvements and the "I, Zombie" mode. The new mode allows you to take on the role of the invading zombies -- a feature previously implemented in the PC, Mac, XBLA and DS versions of the game.

The update also includes GameCenter leaderboard support for the first time, and adds four new achievements and "Bronze, Silver and Gold Mystery Sprouts." Now, go and clear the zombies so Santa can have a clear LZ!

Continue reading Plants vs. Zombies iPhone receives holiday update, 'I, Zombie' mode

JoystiqPlants vs. Zombies iPhone receives holiday update, 'I, Zombie' mode originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Dec 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>iosiphonemobilePlants-vs-ZombiesPopCapPopCap-GamesThu, 15 Dec 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Plants vs. Zombies coming to PlayStation Vita]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/14/plants-vs-zombies-coming-to-playstation-vita/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/14/plants-vs-zombies-coming-to-playstation-vita/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/14/plants-vs-zombies-coming-to-playstation-vita/#comments Of course it is.

JoystiqPlants vs. Zombies coming to PlayStation Vita originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Dec 2011 00:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Plants-vs-Zombiesplaystationplaystation-vitapopcappopcap-gamesvitaWed, 14 Dec 2011 00:03:00 EST<![CDATA[XBLA in Brief: Bejeweled 3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/19/xbla-in-brief-bejeweled-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/19/xbla-in-brief-bejeweled-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/19/xbla-in-brief-bejeweled-3/#comments
We've reviewed the multiplatform release Dungeon Defenders (which is excellent, by the way), and that only leaves Bejeweled 3 for XBLA in Brief this week. It's ... well, it's Bejeweled.

There are new Xbox Live Arcade games released every week. We realize that our readers are busy, attractive people, and may not have time to download and examine each and every new XBLA game. You've got busy, attractive person stuff to do, after all. Not to worry though, because we've done the work for you, downloading every single trial game and giving you a taste of what to expect. Watch XBLA in Brief every week to see which games deserve a closer look. When you have the time, of course.

JoystiqXBLA in Brief: Bejeweled 3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 Oct 2011 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bejeweled-3microsoftpopcapxblaxbla-in-briefxboxxbox-liveWed, 19 Oct 2011 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Popcorn Dragon trailer pops up, looks delicious]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/popcorn-dragon-trailer-pops-up-looks-delicious/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/popcorn-dragon-trailer-pops-up-looks-delicious/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/popcorn-dragon-trailer-pops-up-looks-delicious/#comments
Like most PopCap games, it looks like Popcorn Dragon is all about finding that little kernel of fun. You know, that simple gameplay mechanic that really pops, hopefully giving way to something light, fluffy and not too hard - the kind of thing that gets stuck in your head.

JoystiqPopcorn Dragon trailer pops up, looks delicious originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 Oct 2011 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>iosipadiphonemobilepopcappopcorn-dragonThu, 13 Oct 2011 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Plants vs Zombies iPhone update adds nine new mini-games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/09/plants-vs-zombies-iphone-update-adds-nine-new-mini-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/09/plants-vs-zombies-iphone-update-adds-nine-new-mini-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/09/plants-vs-zombies-iphone-update-adds-nine-new-mini-games/#comments If you need to take a breather from the exhausting business of arboreal zombie warfare, you'll be able to participate in nine new mini-games on the iPhone version of Plants vs. Zombies today. An update for the title just launched, which adds three packs of three diversions to Crazy Dave's store, such as ZomBotany 2, Invisi-Ghoul and Beghouled Twist. Really, the puns are worth the price of admission.

Each pack can be bought with in-game coins, or if you prefer, with $0.99 of your real-world cash. We'd suggest spending the former, because the latter can be spent on other real-world goods and services. Like, you could play the mini games, and also eat the three Twix bars you just bought. Or, wait -- six Twix bars! Because there's two of them.

JoystiqPlants vs Zombies iPhone update adds nine new mini-games originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 Sep 2011 23:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>iphonemicrotransactionminigamesmobilePlants-vs-ZombiespopcapupdateFri, 09 Sep 2011 23:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Peggle HD launches on the iPad tomorrow]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/24/peggle-hd-launches-on-the-ipad-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/24/peggle-hd-launches-on-the-ipad-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/24/peggle-hd-launches-on-the-ipad-tomorrow/#comments You know how you promised to, like, do stuff tomorrow? Forget it, you've got new plans -- addictive, intoxicating plans. Popcap has announced via its Twitter account that Peggle HD launches on the App store tomorrow. No price was revealed but, honestly, does it matter? Of course it doesn't.

So, we suggest in light of this news that you start going around, stocking up on goodwill with the people in your life. Help them in these last few hours of Wednesday, August 24. Once it's the 25th, you're gonna need to use up some of that goodwill ignoring everything except your iPad.

JoystiqPeggle HD launches on the iPad tomorrow originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Aug 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleeaiosipadmobilePegglepeggle-hdpopcapWed, 24 Aug 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Riccitiello details EA's three-point plan: IP, Platform, Talent]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/27/riccitiello-details-eas-three-point-plan-ip-platform-talent/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/27/riccitiello-details-eas-three-point-plan-ip-platform-talent/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/27/riccitiello-details-eas-three-point-plan-ip-platform-talent/#comments During an investor conference call yesterday, EA CEO John Riccitiello formalized the company's three-point plan for the forseeable future. For fiscal 2012 and beyond, the three pillars of EA's business growth are IP: "building roughly twelve franchises into year-round businesses across a range of platforms, packaged goods, and digital," Platform, "building a solid ecosystem for leveraging our content and services, focusing on our own platform, Origin, while supporting our retail partners," and, finally, Talent: "investing in our creative and engineering talent to drive and maintain our IP across multiple platforms from console to social and PC to mobile."

The "IP" central to EA's strategy includes, of course, things like Madden, Battlefield, The Sims, and FIFA. "Platform" is easily summarized as "Origin." As for "Talent," that includes high-profile acquisitions like PopCap as well as growth in existing EA studios -- like the Austin expansion EA just announced.

JoystiqRiccitiello details EA's three-point plan: IP, Platform, Talent originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Jul 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eajohn-riccitiellooriginpcpopcapWed, 27 Jul 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Make-A-Wish recipient's Allied Star Police now available from PopCap]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/make-a-wish-recipients-allied-star-police-now-available-from-po/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/make-a-wish-recipients-allied-star-police-now-available-from-po/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/make-a-wish-recipients-allied-star-police-now-available-from-po/#comments
You may not remember the name Owain Weinert, but you probably remember his story. The 9-year-old, who's been living with leukemia since 2010, had a dream fulfilled by the Make-A-Wish foundation when he designed a game in conjunction with PopCap.

Today, the product of that collaboration -- Allied Star Police -- arrives on iOS platforms courtesy of PopCap's 4th and Battery branch. Better yet, the top-down arcade RTS tower defense game (ambitious for a rookie!), is available for free on the App Store right now. Well, what are you waiting for? What are you, made of stone?

Continue reading Make-A-Wish recipient's Allied Star Police now available from PopCap

JoystiqMake-A-Wish recipient's Allied Star Police now available from PopCap originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 21 Jul 2011 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allied-star-policeiositunesmake-a-wishmobilepopcapThu, 21 Jul 2011 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PopCap games to be bundled with Sony Ericsson phones in Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/20/popcap-games-to-be-bundled-with-sony-ericsson-phones-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/20/popcap-games-to-be-bundled-with-sony-ericsson-phones-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/20/popcap-games-to-be-bundled-with-sony-ericsson-phones-in-europe/#comments PopCap and Sony Ericsson today announced an agreement that will finally bring the casual developer's titles to Android devices in Europe. The agreement will bring them to exactly two of Sony's platforms, the Xperia Mini and the Xperia Mini Pro, as they roll out this summer. Three of PopCap's titles will be pre-loaded onto the devices, specifically the full version of Chuzzle and trial versions of Plants vs. Zombies and Peggle.

In the press release detailing the agreement, PopCap's Giordano Bruno Contestabile stated, "We are delighted to partner with Sony Ericsson to fulfill our promise to Android users and bring PopCap's hit mobile games to an ever-widening base of smartphone users." Presumably, PopCap's titles will spread to more than two of Sony's phones in the future.

JoystiqPopCap games to be bundled with Sony Ericsson phones in Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Jul 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chuzzleeuropemobilepegglePlants-vs-Zombiespopcappopcap-gamessonysony-ericssonxperiaWed, 20 Jul 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EA to acquire PopCap Games for $750 million]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/12/ea-to-acquire-popcap-games-for-750-million/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/12/ea-to-acquire-popcap-games-for-750-million/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/12/ea-to-acquire-popcap-games-for-750-million/#comments Rumors first began circulating nearly three weeks ago when TechCrunch reported that casual gaming pusher PopCap was going to be acquired for over $1 billion dollars. Now, Electronic Arts has announced its intention to purchase the Seattle-based developer for $750 million, including $100 million in stock. The acquisition is expected to close in August of this year, pending the usual regulatory approvals.

"EA and PopCap are a compelling combination," boasted CEO John Riccitiello, clearly envisioning a newly expanded EA digital empire. "PopCap's great studio talent and powerful IP add to EA's momentum and accelerate our drive towards a $1 billion digital business."

"We picked EA because they have recast their culture around making great digital games," said David Roberts, CEO of PopCap. "By working with EA, we'll scale our games and services to deliver more social, mobile, casual fun to an even bigger, global audience." In case it's not obvious, we'll spell it out for you: O-R-I-G-I-N.

JoystiqEA to acquire PopCap Games for $750 million originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Jul 2011 16:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acquisitiondavid-robertsEAElectronic-ArtsJohn-riccitiellomacpcPlants-vs-ZombiesPopCapPopCap-GamesTue, 12 Jul 2011 16:17:00 EST<![CDATA[First GDC Online 2011 summits announced]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/03/first-gdc-online-2011-summits-announced/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/03/first-gdc-online-2011-summits-announced/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/03/first-gdc-online-2011-summits-announced/#comments Despite the brutal, anti-nerd reality that is Texas weather, Austin has become a major hub for development houses that produce MMOs and casual/social online titles. BioWare, NCSoft, Blizzard, SOE, heck, even Zynga; they've all got offices in Austin and collectively they're responsible for a sizable growth spurt in the city's already impressive technology sector. It makes sense, then, that GDC 2011's "Online" chapter should return to the Lone-Star State's capital city.

GDC has, historically, been a conference "for developers, by developers," meaning that it's probably not the sort of show Jimmy Halo and Ricky Killzone want to spend their tuition money on. However! If you're in the industry, or just really, really into game design, you just might find something worthwhile at one of GDCO's recently announced summits.

The Game Narrative Summit, for instance, returns for its 6th year of lectures and dissertations with Eidos Montreal's Mary De Marle giving a talk on "Building the Story-driven Experience of Deus Ex: Human Revolution," and Volition's Steve Jaros hosting a roundtable discussion of development mistakes and war-stories in "Sins of the Past." PopCap's Giordano Bruno Contestabile will be contributing his knowledge of pocket-sized, casual gaming to the Smartphone and Tablet Games Summit, and while the GDC Virtual Items Summit has been announced, no specific session details have been listed as of yet.

If extremely-inside-baseball discussions really are your bag, baby, then summit lectures will be open to GDCO attendees with "All Access" and "Summits & Tutorials" badges during the first two days of the conference's October 10-13 run at the Austin Convention Center.

JoystiqFirst GDC Online 2011 summits announced originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 03 Jul 2011 23:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>austinBioWareBlizzardBlizzard-Entertainmentdeus-ex-human-revolutionEidos-MontrealGDCgdc-onlineGDC-Online-2011gdc2011ncsoftPopCapPopCap-GamesSOEsoe-austinsummitsVolitionZyngaSun, 03 Jul 2011 23:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Plants vs. Zombies vs. Windows Phone 7]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/23/plants-vs-zombies-vs-windows-phone-7/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/23/plants-vs-zombies-vs-windows-phone-7/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/23/plants-vs-zombies-vs-windows-phone-7/#comments PopCap's Plants vs. Zombies continues to spread its roots throughout the games industry (or, from the other perspective, it continues its slow, mindless march across the industry). Today, PopCap's outrageously popular casual strategy game has launched on the Windows Phone 7 platform for $4.99/€4.99. It's part of Microsoft's "Must Have Games" promotion, preceded by Sonic 4 and followed next week by Angry Birds.

The WinPhone version includes Xbox Live integration, including leaderboards and achievements. It also includes the first mobile versions of the "Vasebreaker" and "I, Zombie" puzzle modes.

[Thanks, Jared]

JoystiqPlants vs. Zombies vs. Windows Phone 7 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Jun 2011 22:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Microsoftmobilemust-have-gamesPlants-vs-Zombiespopcapwindows-phone-7Thu, 23 Jun 2011 22:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: PopCap being acquired for over $1 billion]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/22/report-popcap-being-acquired-for-over-1-billion/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/22/report-popcap-being-acquired-for-over-1-billion/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/22/report-popcap-being-acquired-for-over-1-billion/#comments TechCrunch reports, by way of "multiple sources," that casual gaming powerhouse PopCap - the group behind Plants vs. Zombies, Peggle, and every other game your mom loves and you won't admit to loving - is in the process of being acquired.

... for over $1 billion.

While you consider all the wrong decisions you've made with your life, we'll finish writing this post so we can join you. The buyer remains unknown and, while growth-happy dev Zynga seems like an obvious pick, TC is hearing that PopCap's asking price (over $1 billion, remember?) was too rich for its blood.

TC speculates that either EA, Japanese mobile group DeNA, or Chinese outfit Tencent might be behind the purchase. You may recognize DeNA following its acquisition of ngmoco last year, and Tencent following its majority buyout of free-to-play hit League of Legends. We've asked PopCap for comment which, if the report is true, we expect right after the PopCap team finishes screaming about how rich they are.

[Update 6:09pm ET - As is to be expected, PopCap issued us the following comment: "Per company policy, we do not comment on rumors and speculation of this nature." 6:45pm ET - PopCap's soon-to-be "Customer Engagement Lead" Jennifer Kye took to Twitter to say, "Not true. Rumor debunked." She later clarified that she would be "working there next week" and that her soon-to-be "boss confirmed it" for her. We've again reached out to PopCap for another statement. 7:02pm ET - And PopCap got back to us again - they're really good about that - with the same no comment: "we do not comment on rumors and speculation of this nature."]

JoystiqReport: PopCap being acquired for over $1 billion originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Jun 2011 17:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessPegglePlants-vs-ZombiesPopCapPopCap-GamesWed, 22 Jun 2011 17:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Bejeweled 3 headed to consoles]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/21/bejeweled-3-headed-to-consoles/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/21/bejeweled-3-headed-to-consoles/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/21/bejeweled-3-headed-to-consoles/#comments PopCap Games announced today that Bejeweled 3 will drop on DS, PS3 and Xbox 360 (in retail, PSN and XBLA versions, respectively) during the last quarter of 2011 in North America and Europe. If you haven't already declared PopCap Games the enemy of global productivity, the company now reminds you that the Bejeweled games are purchased "at the rate of one copy every 4.3 seconds."

The developer and publisher of such time-sinks as Plants vs. Zombies and Peggle has already given us a glimpse into the future of its cuddly, iron-fisted domination of free time. The company recently began its huggable assault on Android devices, is funding a $3 million Spicy Horse project and continues to put the pieces in place for further Facebook control. Fear the power of a PopCap IPO, friends.

Continue reading Bejeweled 3 headed to consoles

JoystiqBejeweled 3 headed to consoles originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Jun 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bejeweled-3dsmicrosoftnintendoplaystationPopCapPopCap-Gamesps3q4-2011release-datexboxTue, 21 Jun 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Android Peggle free on Amazon Appstore today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/21/android-peggle-free-on-amazon-appstore-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/21/android-peggle-free-on-amazon-appstore-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/21/android-peggle-free-on-amazon-appstore-today/#comments You've already seen the headline -- and our friend, Tyrone -- so let's dispense with the pleasantries. Peggle for Android is free today on the Amazon Appstore. Go get it.

Continue reading Android Peggle free on Amazon Appstore today

JoystiqAndroid Peggle free on Amazon Appstore today originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Jun 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidmobilepopcapTue, 21 Jun 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Plants vs. Zombies free on Android today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/31/psa-plants-vs-zombies-free-on-android-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/31/psa-plants-vs-zombies-free-on-android-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/31/psa-plants-vs-zombies-free-on-android-today/#comments Time is already passing, and you're not downloading Plants vs. Zombies on your Android device -- for zero dollars! Frankly, that seems really silly to us. Sure, Popcap already released the game on just about every other piece of electronics you own, but that doesn't make it any less wonderful and addicting. Did we mention it's free? Maybe we should point that out again, 'cause it's totally free.

JoystiqPSA: Plants vs. Zombies free on Android today originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 31 May 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonandroidandroid-marketplacefreemobilePlants-vs-Zombiespopcappopcap-gamespsaq2-2011release-dateTue, 31 May 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Make-A-Wish and PopCap help 9-year-old create his own iOS game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/30/make-a-wish-and-popcap-helps-9-year-old-create-his-own-ios-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/30/make-a-wish-and-popcap-helps-9-year-old-create-his-own-ios-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/30/make-a-wish-and-popcap-helps-9-year-old-create-his-own-ios-game/#comments PopCap and the Make-A-Wish foundation recently teamed up to help 9-year-old Owain Weinert, who was diagnosed with Leukemia last year, realize his dream of creating his very own iOS game. The developer took Weinert's idea for the title -- a real-time strategy game called Allied Star Police -- and turned it into a fully-fledged product which is set to launch on the iPad and iPhone App Stores sometime within the next few months. Best of all, the proceeds from the game will go directly to Make-A-Wish, forming some kind of beautiful circle of altruism.

Check out a video report from Seattle's FOX affiliate after the jump to see the launch party PopCap threw for Weinert and his friends. You might want to brace yourself, though, because you're about to have a new favorite kid of all time.

Continue reading Make-A-Wish and PopCap help 9-year-old create his own iOS game

JoystiqMake-A-Wish and PopCap help 9-year-old create his own iOS game originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 30 Apr 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allied-star-policeiosipadiphoneMake-A-WishmobilepopcapSat, 30 Apr 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hear the remastered Bejeweled soundtracks for the first time]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/07/hear-the-remastered-bejeweled-soundtracks-for-the-first-time/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/07/hear-the-remastered-bejeweled-soundtracks-for-the-first-time/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/07/hear-the-remastered-bejeweled-soundtracks-for-the-first-time/#comments You know, we didn't even realize Bejeweled games had music. Every time we play one of those joints it's when we're supposed to be doing something else -- so it's always muted, if not half-tucked under our desk on an iPhone, all cocked sideways.

Listening to the remastered Bejeweled 2 and 3 soundtracks, now available to stream (or purchase) from the composers' page on online music store Bandcamp, it's clear that we've been missing out. These lively electronic ditties have a lot of spirit -- so why waste them on gem-matching? This could be the mix that finally transforms your mundane ride to work into a "journey," or your half-assed workout into a "quest."

Bonus: The Plants vs. Zombies soundtrack is also available on Bandcamp.

JoystiqHear the remastered Bejeweled soundtracks for the first time originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Apr 2011 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alexander-brandonbejeweled-2bejeweled-3laura-shigiharamusicpcpeter-hajbaplants-vs-zombiespopcapskaven-252soundtrackThu, 07 Apr 2011 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PopCap discounts iOS games this weekend, proceeds go to Japan relief]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/18/popcap-discounts-ios-games-this-weekend-proceeds-go-to-japan-re/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/18/popcap-discounts-ios-games-this-weekend-proceeds-go-to-japan-re/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/18/popcap-discounts-ios-games-this-weekend-proceeds-go-to-japan-re/#comments PopCap will discount all of its iPhone and iPad games this weekend, beginning at 12:01AM PT tonight, donating all revenues from the 48-hour sale to the Red Cross in support of earthquake relief efforts in Japan. The company's iPhone games will be reduced to $1 each, while its two iPad apps, notably Plants vs. Zombies HD, will be offered for $2 apiece.

"We recently opened an office in Tokyo, and while our Japan-based employees are safe and uninjured, we understand countless others in Japan need food, shelter, and medical attention," said PopCap's Ellen Marett in an announcement for the donation drive. "Given that Plants vs. Zombies reached #1 on the iPhone and iPad sales charts in Japan, it seemed like the most appropriate game to feature in this fundraising campaign."

A complete listing of PopCap's iOS titles can be accessed via this App Store link.

Update [3/22/11]: PopCap reports that the fundraiser sale raised more than $200,000, "which is being passed along to the International Red Cross for use in their ongoing efforts to provide food, shelter, medicine and other essentials to those suffering from the devastation in Japan."

JoystiqPopCap discounts iOS games this weekend, proceeds go to Japan relief originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Mar 2011 20:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charityjapanmobileplants-vs-zombiespopcapred-crossFri, 18 Mar 2011 20:59:00 EST<![CDATA[PopCap considering IPO, not likely revealing any new IP in 2011]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/07/popcap-considering-ipo-not-likely-revealing-any-new-ip-in-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/07/popcap-considering-ipo-not-likely-revealing-any-new-ip-in-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/07/popcap-considering-ipo-not-likely-revealing-any-new-ip-in-2011/#comments We're just gonna level with you, folks -- we're scared. Frankly, reading this weekend's CNBC report that Plants vs. Zombies developer PopCap Games is considering an IPO worries us greatly. In so many words, it means that the quirky indie studio could go from private to public, meaning that the company could go from being beholden to itself to being beholden to investors. It also means that PopCap could expand far more rapidly -- and that you could own a piece of the action.

As it stands, the studio pulled in over $100 million last year in revenues and, according to CNBC, is the third largest Facebook developer -- handily besting Disney's user numbers with just two games of its own (versus Disney's 37!). PopCap doesn't deny the possibility of the IPO -- it evenregistered with the US Securities and Exchange Commission -- with company prez David Roberts saying, "I do think we'll be ready internally. Whether the market is ready remains to be seen. It has got to be right for us."

Amazingly, CNBC also asked Roberts if he would comment on the long ago trademarked "Yetitrain" name. He didn't. That name, however, is still amazing. Unfortunately, we may not be hearing anything about it anytime soon. Roberts stated, "Don't hold your breath" when asked about the possibilty of a new franchise being announced this year.

JoystiqPopCap considering IPO, not likely revealing any new IP in 2011 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 07 Mar 2011 11:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessdavid-robertsdsfacebookinitial-public-offeringipomacmicrosoftmobilenintendopcPlants-vs-Zombiesplaystationpopcappopcap-gamesps3pspsonyxboxyetitrainMon, 07 Mar 2011 11:38:00 EST<![CDATA[What's in a Name: PopCap Games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/28/whats-in-a-name-popcap-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/28/whats-in-a-name-popcap-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/28/whats-in-a-name-popcap-games/#comments During another long night of shakes and sweats, suffering from what was surely some PopCap Games withdrawal, we pondered the origin story of the electronic pharmaceutical giant's name. We spoke with PopCap Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer Jason Kapalka for the answer:

"First thing is that [PopCap Games] wasn't our name originally. The original name was 'Sexy Action Cool,'" Kapalka told us. "Back at university in Edmonton, there was an inside joke because some people had a basement suite with this big movie poster of Antonio Banderas in Desperado. It had this movie quote at the top that said: Sexy. Action. Cool."

"It became an inside joke on how nobody could imagine using Sexy Action Cool in a real sentence. We'd walk around saying, 'You see that movie?' 'Yeah, it was sexy, action, cool.' Or 'That couch? That couch is really sexy, action, cool.'"

The company founders snagged the related URL (which now directs to PopCap proper) and continued to not think much of the name, at first. As the site grew, however, it became clear that "Sexy Action Cool" was an awkward destination for mass-market family games.

Continue reading What's in a Name: PopCap Games

JoystiqWhat's in a Name: PopCap Games originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Feb 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsmicrosoftmobilenintendopcPlants-vs-ZombiesplaystationPopCapPopCap-Gamesps3pspsonywhats-in-a-namewiixboxMon, 28 Feb 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Plants vs. Zombots: a LittleBigPlanet 2 re-creation]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/25/plants-vs-zombots-a-littlebigplanet-2-re-creation/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/25/plants-vs-zombots-a-littlebigplanet-2-re-creation/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/25/plants-vs-zombots-a-littlebigplanet-2-re-creation/#comments Plants vs. Zombots might be the most faithful recreation of a game we've see in LittleBigPlanet 2 so far. The level, created by Foggles, replicates all the sunshine grabbing, sunflower planting and zombie shooting you'd expect from Plants vs. Zombies.

Continue reading Plants vs. Zombots: a LittleBigPlanet 2 re-creation

JoystiqPlants vs. Zombots: a LittleBigPlanet 2 re-creation originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 Feb 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>LittleBigPlanetLittleBigPlanet-2media-moleculeplants-vs-zombiesplaystationPopCapps3psnFri, 25 Feb 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[XBLA in Brief: Bejeweled Blitz Live]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/23/xbla-in-brief-bejeweled-blitz-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/23/xbla-in-brief-bejeweled-blitz-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/23/xbla-in-brief-bejeweled-blitz-live/#comments The XBLA House Party continues this week with Bejeweled Blitz Live. It seems silly to explain it, considering you're probably playing Blitz on Facebook at this very moment, but the Live take is PopCap's classic gem swapper with a simple twist: You only get one minute to play.

If you need yet more distraction from things you should be doing, check out our preview of Bejeweled Blitz Live in the latest XBLA in Brief after the break.

[iTunes] Subscribe to XBLA in Brief directly in iTunes.
[Zune] Subscribe to the XBLA in Brief directly.
[RSS] Add the XBLA in Brief feed to your RSS aggregator and have the show delivered automatically.
[M4V] Download the M4V directly.

Continue reading XBLA in Brief: Bejeweled Blitz Live

JoystiqXBLA in Brief: Bejeweled Blitz Live originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Feb 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bejeweled-blitz-livemicrosoftpopcapx3f-tvxblaxbla-in-briefxblmxboxWed, 23 Feb 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Infinity Blade, Plants vs. Zombies among International Mobile Gaming Awards winners]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/18/infinity-blade-plants-vs-zombies-among-international-mobile-ga/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/18/infinity-blade-plants-vs-zombies-among-international-mobile-ga/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/18/infinity-blade-plants-vs-zombies-among-international-mobile-ga/#comments The seventh annual International Mobile Gaming Awards ceremony has concluded at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain, and two US-developed titles came away with special honors. Infinity Blade from Epic Games garnered an award for Excellence in Design (we'd have also given it Supreme Overall Awesomeness) while PopCap's Plants vs. Zombies was picked as Best Casual Game.

European winners included Perfect Cell by France's Mobigame (People's Choice Award); FDG's Beyond Ynth (Excellence in Gameplay, Grand Prix Award) and Snowboard Hero by Fishlabs (Excellence in Gameplay, Operators' Choice) from Germany; the UK-made Papa Sangre by Somethin' Else (Most innovative Game); and AR invaders by Israel-based dev Soulbit (Best Real World Game).

Mobile games will get their next chance to shine at GDC 2011, during both the IGF Awards and Game Developers Choice Awards on March 2.

JoystiqInfinity Blade, Plants vs. Zombies among International Mobile Gaming Awards winners originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Feb 2011 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ar-invadersbeyond-ynthChair-Entertainmentepic-gamesfdgfishlabsinfinity-bladeinternational-mobile-gaming-awardsiosmobilemobile-world-congresspapa-sangreplants-vs-zombiesPopCapsnowboard-herosomethin-elsesoulbitFri, 18 Feb 2011 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Bing adds playable games to search results]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/03/bing-adds-playable-games-to-search-results/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/03/bing-adds-playable-games-to-search-results/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/03/bing-adds-playable-games-to-search-results/#comments At approximately 3:00pm ET, Joystiq blogger Richard Mitchell was assigned an article regarding the Bing search engine now including playable games in its search results. For example, if a user were to search the term "blackjack," the results page will include a playable version of blackjack embedded directly in the search engine itself. Furthermore, players can log into either Facebook or Windows Live to compare scores with friends.

Mr. Mitchell is believed to have begun a game of Bejeweled 3 for research purposes. He has not been heard from since. Should any reader discover the whereabouts of Mr. Mitchell, please contact Joystiq immediately. For the sake of your loved ones, it is recommended that you do not examine the list of available games after the break.

Continue reading Bing adds playable games to search results

JoystiqBing adds playable games to search results originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Feb 2011 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bejeweled-3bingcasual-gamespcpopcapsearch-engineThu, 03 Feb 2011 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mastertronic bringing PopCap games to UK retail on DS, PC and 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/30/mastertronic-bringing-popcap-games-to-uk-retail-on-ds-pc-and-36/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/30/mastertronic-bringing-popcap-games-to-uk-retail-on-ds-pc-and-36/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/30/mastertronic-bringing-popcap-games-to-uk-retail-on-ds-pc-and-36/#comments Our friends overseas -- who live in the United States of Kingdoms, which we're fairly certain is what the UK is short for -- are about to have their free time sucked into oblivion. Publisher Mastertronic has announced plans to bring PopCap's most devilishly addictive titles to UK retailers on various platforms, starting with the February 18 release of PopCap Hits for Xbox 360; a tidy bundle which includes Bejeweled 2, Peggle, Feeding Frenzy and AstroPop.

Shortly thereafter, the publisher will port Plants vs. Zombies to the DS, and will release a second collection of PopCap Hits for 360, including Plants vs. Zombies, Zuma, Feeding Frenzy 2 and Heavy Weapon. Mediatronic also plans on releasing retail versions of a few of the casual developer's titles on PC later this year. Basically, we hope that the UK doesn't have any big projects coming up that will require its citizens to be as productive as humanly possible, because, hoo boy, that's a whole lot of PopCap.

Continue reading Mastertronic bringing PopCap games to UK retail on DS, PC and 360

JoystiqMastertronic bringing PopCap games to UK retail on DS, PC and 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 30 Jan 2011 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsmastertronicmicrosoftnintendopcPlants-vs-Zombiespopcappopcap-hitsxboxSun, 30 Jan 2011 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Plants vs. Zombies vs. PS3 this Feb., SOE announces upcoming PSN library]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/28/plants-vs-zombies-ps3-release-date/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/28/plants-vs-zombies-ps3-release-date/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/28/plants-vs-zombies-ps3-release-date/#comments Like the sunrise, the expansion of a PopCap game to another platform is inevitable. Plants vs. Zombies will be available on the PlayStation Network in February thanks to the company's continuing collaboration with Sony Online Entertainment. Like SOE's previous efforts, this appears to be a direct port of the original game.

If you're looking for something more "exclusive," SOE has announced an extensive suite of original PSN games as well:
  • Acceleration of Suguri X Edition from Rockin' Android is an anime robot beat 'em up.
  • Slam Bolt Scrappers from Fire Hose Games has you constructing buildings, and brawling bosses to protect them.
  • Akimi Village from NinjaBee has you gathering resources to construct a village.
  • Sideway from Playbrains and Fuel Industries is an adventure set in the "gritty art culture" of NYC.
  • Rochard from Recoil Games is a side-scrolling puzzler set in space.
Slam Bolt Scrappers is arriving this March, while Sideway is cleared with a vague "Spring" release window. Unfortunately, not much else has been released about the other titles, but expect more in the future.

JoystiqPlants vs. Zombies vs. PS3 this Feb., SOE announces upcoming PSN library originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 28 Jan 2011 14:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acceleration-of-suguri-x-editionakimi-villagePlants-vs-Zombiesplaystationpopcapps3psnrochardsidewayslam-bolt-scrapperssoesony-online-entertainmentFri, 28 Jan 2011 14:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Plants vs. Zombies, Peggle coming to Android [update: Q2 release planned]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/17/plants-vs-zombies-peggle-coming-to-android/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/17/plants-vs-zombies-peggle-coming-to-android/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/17/plants-vs-zombies-peggle-coming-to-android/#comments Things are looking up for game-loving Android owners. First, we unveiled the Android version of the Joystiq app and now, much less interestingly, PopCap reveals that both Peggle and Plants vs. Zombies are headed to Android as well. Posting on Twitter, PopCap's Jeff Green uploaded images of both games running on an Android device. In response to another Tweet, Green also stated that the games won't be supported by ads, but will "probably" be sold via "the various marketplaces."

We've contacted PopCap to see if we can dig up any more information. We'll plant an update right here if we hear anything.

Update: PopCap isn't sharing details on its upcoming Android titles, saying only that they are "coming along" and that the first titles -- not necessarily Plants vs. Zombies or Peggle -- should launch in Q2 2011.

JoystiqPlants vs. Zombies, Peggle coming to Android [update: Q2 release planned] originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Jan 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidmobilepegglePlants-vs-ZombiespopcapMon, 17 Jan 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bejeweled Blitz Live packing 16-player online play]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/17/bejeweled-blitz-live-packing-16-player-online-play/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/17/bejeweled-blitz-live-packing-16-player-online-play/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/17/bejeweled-blitz-live-packing-16-player-online-play/#comments It looks like Bejeweled Blitz Live will be packing a few new features when it jumps to Xbox Live Arcade later this year. In addition to the standard single-player mode already familiar to millions of Facebook users, the XBLA version will also offer the Bejeweled Twist play style and some Xbox Live multiplayer modes. Multiplayer modes will include a head-to-head mode as well as a Party mode that allows up to 16 gem-swappers to play simultaneously -- sounds hectic.

Check out some new screens in the gallery below.

Gallery: Bejeweled Blitz (XBLA)

Continue reading Bejeweled Blitz Live packing 16-player online play

JoystiqBejeweled Blitz Live packing 16-player online play originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Jan 2011 19:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bejeweled-blitz-livemicrosoftpopcapxboxMon, 17 Jan 2011 19:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Reminder: XBLA Plants vs. Zombies on sale this week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/17/reminder-xbla-plants-vs-zombies-on-sale-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/17/reminder-xbla-plants-vs-zombies-on-sale-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/17/reminder-xbla-plants-vs-zombies-on-sale-this-week/#comments A quick note for all the undead-hating green thumbs out there: The Xbox Live Arcade version of Plantz vs. Zombies is on sale this week. Normally 1200 MS Points, the defensive gardening sim is now available to Xbox Live Gold members for 800 MSP ($10). That $5 saving could buy a lot of mulch.

Continue reading Reminder: XBLA Plants vs. Zombies on sale this week

JoystiqReminder: XBLA Plants vs. Zombies on sale this week originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Jan 2011 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftplants-vs-zombiespopcapxblaxboxMon, 17 Jan 2011 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[PopCap's (almost) entire PC and Mac catalog is 50% off]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/29/popcaps-almost-entire-pc-and-mac-catalog-is-50-off/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/29/popcaps-almost-entire-pc-and-mac-catalog-is-50-off/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/29/popcaps-almost-entire-pc-and-mac-catalog-is-50-off/#comments Dozens of PopCap's titles are on sale through January 2 -- from Alchemy to Zuma's Revenge. The sale covers all PC and Mac downloadables, excluding the recently launched Bejeweled 3 (it also doesn't extend to any game bundles). Still, even sans its new puzzler, there are plenty of gems to be had.

JoystiqPopCap's (almost) entire PC and Mac catalog is 50% off originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Dec 2010 00:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bejeweled-3macpcPopCapWed, 29 Dec 2010 00:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Zuma Blitz now launching multicolored marbles at Facebook]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/15/zuma-blitz-now-launching-multicolored-marbles-at-facebook/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/15/zuma-blitz-now-launching-multicolored-marbles-at-facebook/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/15/zuma-blitz-now-launching-multicolored-marbles-at-facebook/#comments PopCap shouldn't be allowed to do this, right? There should be some kind of legislation protecting our poor, non-gaming relations from the casual game developer's insidiously addictive creations -- sadly, no such law exists. In its absence, PopCap was recently able to put Zuma Blitz on Facebook. With its weekly tournament ladders, player progression system, unlockable power-ups and all manner of social networking features, it will almost certainly bring the lives of many a Facebook gamer to a grinding, sudden halt.

No kidding, guys -- we stopped in the middle of writing this post to see how well the marble-matching title translated over to Facebook, and an hour of our life was siphoned into the ether in what seemed like seconds. We ask that if you're going to Zuma, you take precautions to Zuma responsibly.

JoystiqZuma Blitz now launching multicolored marbles at Facebook originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Dec 2010 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualfacebookpcpopcapzumazuma-blitzWed, 15 Dec 2010 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live Deal of the Week: 50% off Bejeweled 2, Uno Rush, Tetris Splash]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/13/xbox-live-deal-of-the-week-50-off-bejeweled-2-uno-rush-tetri/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/13/xbox-live-deal-of-the-week-50-off-bejeweled-2-uno-rush-tetri/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/13/xbox-live-deal-of-the-week-50-off-bejeweled-2-uno-rush-tetri/#comments Casual cost-cutting news now as this week's Xbox Live deals are now live. Through Sunday, Gold members can grab Bejeweled 2, Uno Rush, Zuma, Tetris Splash and Feeding Frenzy 2 for half-off their usual prices.

Continue reading Xbox Live Deal of the Week: 50% off Bejeweled 2, Uno Rush, Tetris Splash

JoystiqXbox Live Deal of the Week: 50% off Bejeweled 2, Uno Rush, Tetris Splash originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 Dec 2010 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bejeweled-2bejweled-2deal-of-the-weekfeeding-frenzy-2microsoftpopcapPopCap-Gamestetris-splashuno-rushxblmxboxxbox-live-deal-of-the-weekzumaMon, 13 Dec 2010 16:40:00 EST<![CDATA[PopCap offering 50% off all its PC and Mac games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/23/popcap-offering-50-off-all-its-pc-and-mac-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/23/popcap-offering-50-off-all-its-pc-and-mac-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/23/popcap-offering-50-off-all-its-pc-and-mac-games/#comments Looking to gorge on more than pumpkin pie and turkey this Thanksgiving at your your Aunt Mimi's? PopCap is offering 50 percent off its entire library of PC and Mac games through November 29 -- everything. Gobble gobble!

JoystiqPopCap offering 50% off all its PC and Mac games originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Nov 2010 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>black-friday-2010macpcPlants-vs-ZombiespopcapTue, 23 Nov 2010 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Peggle bounces onto PSP on Tuesday for $9.99]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/13/peggle-bounces-onto-psp-on-tuesday-for-9-99/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/13/peggle-bounces-onto-psp-on-tuesday-for-9-99/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/13/peggle-bounces-onto-psp-on-tuesday-for-9-99/#comments While it may not hold the same honors as Dead Space Girl, this mouth-watering image is one of the most frequently used throughout Joystiq history, reserved for many of our Peggle-related stories. Considering its wide cross-platform availability, we're almost certain you know exactly what Peggle is, and why it's so addicting. Surprisingly, PopCap's game has not yet made it to Sony's handheld -- a fact will be rectified next Tuesday when it lands on the PSN for $9.99.

PopCap's Michael Santora promises that the PSP version will include "all the original Masters, challenges, and levels in adventure mode," but unfortunately, he makes no mention of any Peggle Nights. Considering how late the PSP version is, we're surprised no additional content is being added. It certainly makes justifying the $10 asking price a bit more difficult.

JoystiqPeggle bounces onto PSP on Tuesday for $9.99 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 13 Nov 2010 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Pegglepeggle-psnplaystationpopcappspsonySat, 13 Nov 2010 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PopCap and Taito team up to bring Pop Tower to Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/11/popcap-and-taito-team-up-to-bring-pop-tower-to-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/11/popcap-and-taito-team-up-to-bring-pop-tower-to-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/11/popcap-and-taito-team-up-to-bring-pop-tower-to-japan/#comments PopCap Games and Taito announced a partnership this morning that would oversee the launch of a new "dedicated mobile social game service" in Japan. The service is named, appropriately enough, Pop Tower. The service will add an "all-new metagame with RPG elements" to several of PopCap's titles (Bejeweled, Chuzzle, and Zuma were all named), unifying multiple PopCap properties under one persistent leveling system.

Beyond unnamed new modes being added and the RPG metagame, additional "social elements" will give players the opportunity to communicate with friends. As we've come to expect with most games moved from the Western market to the East, microtransactions will play a major role in the monetization of Pop Tower's titles, allowing for the purchase of "in-game virtual goods and premium service options." And hey, if that means we can play as Björn the Unicorn across multiple PopCap titles and persistently level him up, consider us sold.

JoystiqPopCap and Taito team up to bring Pop Tower to Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Nov 2010 19:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bejeweledchuzzlejapanmacmicrotransactionsmobilepcpop-towerpopcappopcap-gamessquare-enixtaitozumaThu, 11 Nov 2010 19:42:00 EST