Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Plants vs. Zombies 2: it's about time we talked freemium vs. premium]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/06/18/plants-vs-zombies-2-its-about-time-we-talked-freemium-vs-pre/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/06/18/plants-vs-zombies-2-its-about-time-we-talked-freemium-vs-pre/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/06/18/plants-vs-zombies-2-its-about-time-we-talked-freemium-vs-pre/#commentsPlants vs Zombies 2 really is about time traveling PopCap Games is known for making games that appeal to a mass audience, and perhaps none are more so than Plants vs. Zombies. The cute 'n clever tower defense game has connected with players of all ages and origins. A sequel, then, was inevitable, and after an announcement last year we finally got to see the game in action at E3 last week.

It's unfortunate, however, that much of the discussion around Plants vs. Zombies 2: It's About Time, at least during the game's iOS launch, probably won't be around any of the great new content. There are new zombie enemies, new plants, three new worlds set in different time periods, touchscreen-centric powerups that allow you to throw zombies around or pinch them apart, and even a new "plant food" buff that gives each plant an extra burst of ability when used.

At launch, they'll probably all get lost in the mix, because there's one other big difference between the first Plants vs. Zombies and its sequel: PvZ 2 is a freemium game.

Continue reading Plants vs. Zombies 2: it's about time we talked freemium vs. premium

JoystiqPlants vs. Zombies 2: it's about time we talked freemium vs. premium originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 18 Jun 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2013eafreemiumiosipadiphonemobileplants-vs-zombies-2popcappopcap-gamesTue, 18 Jun 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Plants vs Zombies: Garden Warfare coming in spring, planned for PC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/06/11/plants-vs-zombies-garden-warfare-coming-in-spring-planned-for/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/06/11/plants-vs-zombies-garden-warfare-coming-in-spring-planned-for/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/06/11/plants-vs-zombies-garden-warfare-coming-in-spring-planned-for/#commentsPlants vs Zombies Garden Warfare coming in spring, planned for PC Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare is being planned for PC, producer Brian Lindley told Joystiq at E3. The third-person action game was announced for Xbox One and Xbox 360 at EA's E3 press conference yesterday. Lindley said the game will launch in spring 2014, and that "at the moment we're not announcing any platforms." You know, outside of PC.

Garden Warfare was announced with a demo of its four-player cooperative multiplayer action. Lindley confirmed that the game will include competitive multiplayer modes in which players can control zombie characters instead of plants.

Gallery: Plants vs Zombies: Garden Warfare (E3 2013)

JoystiqPlants vs Zombies: Garden Warfare coming in spring, planned for PC originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Jun 2013 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2013EApcplants-vs-zombies-garden-warfarePopCapTue, 11 Jun 2013 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Peggle 2 coming this year from PopCap]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/06/10/peggle-2-coming-this-year-from-popcap/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/06/10/peggle-2-coming-this-year-from-popcap/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/06/10/peggle-2-coming-this-year-from-popcap/#comments Popcap's John Vechey just announced Peggle 2 will launch this year on unknown platforms from PopCap.

JoystiqPeggle 2 coming this year from PopCap originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Jun 2013 16:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2013eaelectronic-artspegglepeggle-2popcappopcap-gamesMon, 10 Jun 2013 16:10:00 EST<![CDATA[EA reveals Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare [Update: Now with trailer!]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/06/10/ea-reveals-plants-vs-zombies-garden-warfare/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/06/10/ea-reveals-plants-vs-zombies-garden-warfare/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/06/10/ea-reveals-plants-vs-zombies-garden-warfare/#comments
At its E3 conference today, Electronic Arts announced Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare, a Frostbite-powered third-person action game inspired by PopCap's "flower defense" strategy game Plants vs. Zombies.

In Garden Warfare, players control a squadron of heavily armed plant life, who must collectively fight off invading zombie hordes using organic weaponry. Gameplay is multiplayer and team-based, and each unit type boasts its own unique arsenal.

Garden Warfare is coming to the Xbox One first, and an Xbox 360 port will launch afterward. Release dates for either version have not been announced.

JoystiqEA reveals Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare [Update: Now with trailer!] originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Jun 2013 16:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2013eaelectronic-artsmicrosoftplants-vs-zombies-garden-warfarepopcapxboxxbox-360xbox-oneMon, 10 Jun 2013 16:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Plants vs. Zombies 2 blooms on iOS July 18, is free-to-play]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/06/03/plants-vs-zombies-2-blooms-on-ios-july-18-is-free-to-play/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/06/03/plants-vs-zombies-2-blooms-on-ios-july-18-is-free-to-play/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/06/03/plants-vs-zombies-2-blooms-on-ios-july-18-is-free-to-play/#comments
Plants vs. Zombies 2: It's About Time launches (projectiles) on July 18 for iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch, and it's free-to-play. As the launch trailer indicates, the tagline's Joystiq-level clever wordplay relates to worlds set in different times. Going by the trailer, PvZ2's time travel plans include The Wild West, Ancient Egypt, and The Future.

In-game purchases include upgrades and other items, but Popcap says "the vast majority of the game will be entirely free-to-play," and that "players can face every zombie and access every level in every world at no cost."

Continue reading Plants vs. Zombies 2 blooms on iOS July 18, is free-to-play

JoystiqPlants vs. Zombies 2 blooms on iOS July 18, is free-to-play originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 03 Jun 2013 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EAiosipadiphonemobileplants-vs-zombies-2popcaprelease-dateMon, 03 Jun 2013 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Hitman: Sniper Challenge, Gyromancer line up on Core Online]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/hitman-sniper-challenge-gyromancer-line-up-on-core-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/hitman-sniper-challenge-gyromancer-line-up-on-core-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/hitman-sniper-challenge-gyromancer-line-up-on-core-online/#comments PopCap puzzler Gyromancer and Hitman: Sniper Challenge are the latest targets for Square Enix's browser-based Core Online service. Sniper Challenge, if you remember, was a pre-order bonus for Hitman: Absolution.

What both games coming to Core Online does alert us to are changes to the service's payment structure. It was originally completely free-to-play, albeit with intermittent ads. However, free play is limited now to 20 minutes each day (still with ads). At 20 minutes a day, it's going to take about a month to complete Tomb Raider: Underworld.

You can pay $2.99 per month to get full access to Core Online's library, which at present includes Hitman: Blood Money, Hitman: Sniper Challenge, Gyromancer, Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light, Tomb Raider: Underworld, and Mini Ninjas. Alternatively, each game can be bought individually for $4.99.

JoystiqHitman: Sniper Challenge, Gyromancer line up on Core Online originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 10 May 2013 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>coreonlinegyromancerhitman-5hitman-absolutionHitman-Sniper-ChallengeIO-Interactivepcpopcaprelease-datesquare-enixFri, 10 May 2013 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Plants vs. Zombies Adventures ventures to Facebook May 20]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/plants-vs-zombies-adventures-ventures-to-facebook-may-20/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/plants-vs-zombies-adventures-ventures-to-facebook-may-20/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/plants-vs-zombies-adventures-ventures-to-facebook-may-20/#commentsPlants vs Zombies Adventures ventures to Facebook May 20 Plants vs. Zombies Adventures, the "extra awesome PvZ experience" that is not Plants vs. Zombies 2, will go live on Facebook starting May 20. If that's not soon enough for you, developer PopCap is also granting early access to the game. Today at 3pm Pacific, the company will post a link on the PvZ Adventures Facebook page, giving early access to the first 500 to clickers.

Meanwhile, Plants vs. Zombies 2: It's About Time launches in July.

JoystiqPlants vs. Zombies Adventures ventures to Facebook May 20 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 10 May 2013 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>facebookmacpcplants-vs-zombies-adventurespopcapFri, 10 May 2013 10:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Plants vs. Zombies 2 sprouts this July]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/plants-vs-zombies-2-sprouts-this-july/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/plants-vs-zombies-2-sprouts-this-july/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/plants-vs-zombies-2-sprouts-this-july/#comments
Plants vs Zombies 2 sprouts this July
Plants vs. Zombies 2 will finally launch in July, according to PopCap Games.

"Yay! I can finally say it! PvZ 2: It's About Time is coming in July!" PvZ Community Marketing Manager Stephanie Bayer announced on Twitter this morning.

PopCap Games announced the sequel last year with a "first half of 2013" release window, so we guess this counts as a mini delay. Hey, PvZ zombies are the slow kind.

JoystiqPlants vs. Zombies 2 sprouts this July originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 May 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaElectronic-Artsmobilepcplants-vs-zombies-2PopCapPopCap-GamesMon, 06 May 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA['Plants vs. Zombies Adventures' sprouting on Facebook]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/plants-vs-zombies-adventures-sprouting-on-facebook/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/plants-vs-zombies-adventures-sprouting-on-facebook/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/plants-vs-zombies-adventures-sprouting-on-facebook/#comments 'Plants vs Zombies Adventures' sprouting on FacebookPlants vs. Zombies Adventures is not the announced sequel to Popcap's lawn-defense game - that's still in process. Instead, it's an "extra awesome PvZ experience fans can enjoy on Facebook," the developer tweeted.

The Facebook page for the unreleased game says Adventures includes "endless waves of new characters, strategies, territories, and community challenges." Interested parties will have the chance to find out exactly how Plants vs. Zombies has been adapted for the Facebook ecosystem soon: "liking" the page offers a chance to get in on a beta.

Joystiq'Plants vs. Zombies Adventures' sprouting on Facebook originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Mar 2013 13:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>facebookpcplants-vs-zombiesplants-vs-zombies-adventurespopcapTue, 26 Mar 2013 13:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Seen@PAX East: PopCap plays tricks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/24/seen-pax-east-popcap-plays-tricks/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/24/seen-pax-east-popcap-plays-tricks/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/24/seen-pax-east-popcap-plays-tricks/#comments
PopCap's PAX East booth was carnival-themed this year, and featured a magician that decided to attempt a "social experiment" Saturday. Stepping down from the small stage, he instructed the crowd to gather closely around the Plants vs Zombies developer's booth, then stood among them. After a brief explanation, he incited a loud, manufactured applause from the crowd before taking the stage and starting his short, but charming routine.

The magician believed that by kicking off the presentation with a cheering crowd, those passing by would naturally stop and join the audience. He was right; the video above shows a few folks gathering near our spot on the left side of the stage, but the total crowd gathering around the booth might have doubled in size from the time before the enigmatic performer began his instructions.

JoystiqSeen@PAX East: PopCap plays tricks originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 24 Mar 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>magicianpax-eastpax-east-2013popcapSun, 24 Mar 2013 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Zen Pinball 2 flies down the Wii U chute March 21]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/15/zen-pinball-2-flies-down-the-wii-u-chute-march-21/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/15/zen-pinball-2-flies-down-the-wii-u-chute-march-21/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/15/zen-pinball-2-flies-down-the-wii-u-chute-march-21/#comments Zen Studios has finally provided a concrete date for Zen Pinball 2 on Wii U in North America: Thursday, March 21. The free download will be available on the eShop next week, which lets you sample all available tables in Zen Pinball 2's vault for a limited amount of time before purchase is necessary.

Tables are purchased piecemeal through the in-game store, tables including the stock game tables and DLC such as the Marvel Pinball series and the Plants vs. Zombies tie-in. The freshly minted Star Wars tables have not been announced for Nintendo platforms, so naturally there's no mention of them in the announcement.

Finally, we'd be remiss if we didn't mention that purchases on other platforms won't transfer over to the Wii U. Zen Studios offered cross-play on PS Vita and PS3, but since the 3DS and Wii U use different stores, transferring already established content from the handheld to the Wii U is impossible.

Continue reading Zen Pinball 2 flies down the Wii U chute March 21

JoystiqZen Pinball 2 flies down the Wii U chute March 21 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Mar 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>marvel-pinballnintendoplants-vs-zombiespopcaprelease-datestar-wars-pinballwii-uzen-pinball-2zen-studiosFri, 15 Mar 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Plants vs. Zombies goes free on iOS this week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/21/plants-vs-zombies-goes-free-on-ios-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/21/plants-vs-zombies-goes-free-on-ios-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/21/plants-vs-zombies-goes-free-on-ios-this-week/#comments Plants vs Zombies goes free on iOS this weekFor the first time in the game's history on iOS, Plants vs. Zombies has dropped to the low price of completely free. On either the iPhone or in HD on the iPad, you can grab the full-featured app for free through the rest of this week.

Statistically, given how many copies of the game have sold already, you probably already own it on at least one of your gaming devices, but just in case that list doesn't include iOS just yet, there you go. And now that PvZ has finally and truly achieved total platform domination, PopCap can start it on the sequel; It's due out sometime this spring.

JoystiqPlants vs. Zombies goes free on iOS this week originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 21 Feb 2013 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>app-of-the-weekappledealdownloadeafreefree-appiosipadiphonemobileplants-vs-zombiespopcapreleaseThu, 21 Feb 2013 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[All PopCap games half-off this weekend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/09/all-popcap-games-half-off-this-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/09/all-popcap-games-half-off-this-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/09/all-popcap-games-half-off-this-weekend/#comments All PopCap games halfoff this weekendTo celebrate the Chinese New Year, PopCap put every game in its library on sale through Tuesday, February 12. All downloadable PC games are 50 percent off though the developer's store, including Plants vs. Zombies, Peggle and Bejeweled 3.

The sale could certainly fund PopCap's "AAA console title" ambitions, but the savings are passed on to you, the player. That extra money equates to a lot of burritos, or in this weekend's case, egg rolls.

JoystiqAll PopCap games half-off this weekend originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 09 Feb 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bejeweled-3chinese-new-yearpcpegglePlants-vs-ZombiesPopCapPopCap-GamessaleSat, 09 Feb 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hit List Q&A: Matthew Lee Johnston]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/hit-list-qanda-matthew-lee-johnston/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/hit-list-qanda-matthew-lee-johnston/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/hit-list-qanda-matthew-lee-johnston/#comments In the "Hit List" from the Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences, the video game industry's top talents describe their current gaming addictions, their most anticipated releases and more. This week: Matthew Lee Johnston.

Hit List Q&A Matthew Lee Johnson,
Matthew Lee Johnston is an eighteen-year veteran of the video game industry and in that time has contributed to over 50 shipped titles. His first project was Microsoft Golf 2.0, and his most recent was Plants Vs. Zombies 2.

At the 2013 D.I.C.E. Summit today, Matt will be moderating a panel titled, "Secret Sauce: Disruption on the Mobile Frontier." Joining him on the panel will be Halfbrick CMO Phil Larsen (Fruit Ninja, Jetpack Joyride), Spry Fox CEO David Edery (Triple Town) and Backflip Studios CEO Julian Farrior (Dragonvale). This is a session where outspoken and independent developers, who have innovated in the mobile market, tell the big guys how they snuck up behind them and grabbed their earnings last year. We'll get behind-the-scenes access to the designs, principles, and methods that allowed these studios to disrupt the entire balance of the traditional video game marketplace in less than two years by dominating the mobile space with some great entertainment.

Continue reading Hit List Q&A: Matthew Lee Johnston

JoystiqHit List Q&A: Matthew Lee Johnston originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Feb 2013 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aiaseahit-listmatt-lee-johnstonmatthew-lee-johnsonplants-vs-zombies-2popcapWed, 06 Feb 2013 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Limited Origin for Mac alpha client launches, includes free copy of Bookworm]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/25/limited-origin-for-mac-alpha-client-launches-includes-free-copy/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/25/limited-origin-for-mac-alpha-client-launches-includes-free-copy/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/25/limited-origin-for-mac-alpha-client-launches-includes-free-copy/#comments EA's Origin launches on Mac in alphaEA has announced an alpha version of the Origin client for Mac is available for testing to a limited number of users in the US and UK. Origin for Mac will eventually evolve, offering a similar experience for Mac users as already seen on PC. In its current form, however, the Mac client does not include the ability to stream gameplay directly to Twitch or purchase software. According to the Origin FAQ, those features will be added soon.

Origin for Mac requires OS X 10.6.8 or newer, with an Intel Core Duo 2 processor or better.

As a reward for those willing to test the client, EA is giving away a copy of Popcap's Bookworm to all downloaders, so log in and download it while you can. Spaces are limited.

JoystiqLimited Origin for Mac alpha client launches, includes free copy of Bookworm originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 Jan 2013 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bookwormclienteaelectronic-artsmacoriginos-xpcpopcapreleaseFri, 25 Jan 2013 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PopCap Dublin shuts down]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/24/popcap-dublin-shuts-down/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/24/popcap-dublin-shuts-down/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/24/popcap-dublin-shuts-down/#comments PopCap Dublin shuts down, 96 reportedly laid offPopCap closed its Dublin office this morning, former PopCap Mobile Associate Producer JP Vaughan confirmed the closure, later tweeting that the studio had "30 days to prepare" for the news. Last month, a round of layoffs at PopCap's Seattle offices saw 50 employees lose their jobs, with reports of jobs at the Irish office being under threat.

A source with knowledge of the situation tells Joystiq the closure occurred following a meeting which took place at 11AM UK time. Our source confirms the company's official line that 96 people have been affected in total by the layoffs, which began last month, with the closure of the Irish studio today merely completing the consultation period. The consultation period is a concept under Irish law where if there is a particular amount of layoffs, employees must receive 30 days notice.

"Europe remains a critical market for PopCap and we will continue to grow our presence through centralized services operated from our North American offices and through the extensive European EA network," PopCap informed Joystiq in a prepared statement.

The news follows the creation of 300 jobs at EA's Customer Service Center in Galway, Ireland. PopCap is an EA subsidiary. No sense in EA doubling up on tax havens.

JoystiqPopCap Dublin shuts down originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 24 Sep 2012 08:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EAeuropeirelandlayoffsmobilepopcapMon, 24 Sep 2012 08:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Free Plants vs. Zombies at ... your dentist's office]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/10/free-plants-vs-zombies-at-your-dentists-office/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/10/free-plants-vs-zombies-at-your-dentists-office/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/10/free-plants-vs-zombies-at-your-dentists-office/#comments Free Plants vs Zombies at dentists you know, with insuranceVideo games are statistically proven* to cause violence, anger, depression, heartbreak, pestilence, dry rashes, higher taxes, climate change, traffic jams, thunderstorms, crying babies, Jersey Shore, the shortage of oil, dry rot, wedgies, and Lindsay Lohan.

One thing they don't cause is tooth decay. What better way to celebrate that than giving kids copies of Plants vs. Zombies instead of candy on Halloween? That's exactly what the American Dental Association is doing with the "Stop Zombie Mouth" campaign. PopCap is giving away a ton of PC and Mac copies of the tooth-friendly game for adults to give this Halloween, all in the name of fun, zombies, and promoting oral health awareness. (Just don't eat any candy while you're clicking away.)

Parents can pick up free coupons redeemable for a PC or Mac copy by visiting the Stop Zombie Mouth website, or by visiting their local participating ADA dentist. There are also trading cards and other themed items for kids to get their werewolf mitts on this Halloween.

*nooooo they're nooooot

Continue reading Free Plants vs. Zombies at ... your dentist's office

JoystiqFree Plants vs. Zombies at ... your dentist's office originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Sep 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>healthmacpcplants-vs-zombiespopcapMon, 10 Sep 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Zen Studios' Plants vs. Zombies pinball table lets in sunshine next week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/31/zen-studios-plants-vs-zombies-pinball-table-lets-in-sunshine-n/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/31/zen-studios-plants-vs-zombies-pinball-table-lets-in-sunshine-n/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/31/zen-studios-plants-vs-zombies-pinball-table-lets-in-sunshine-n/#comments
Zen Studios' first mystery pinball table based on a PopCap franchise will be Plants vs. Zombies. The table, playable at PAX this weekend, features your favorite flora and undead continuing their epic battle with the assistance of giant silver balls.

The Plants vs. Zombies pinball table will be available on September 4 and 5 in North America and Europe, respectively, as a cross buy add-on for Zen Pinball 2 on PS3 and Vita. The table flips on in XBLA's Pinball FX2 on September 5. The table is $2.99 through the PlayStation Network, 240 Microsoft Points ($3) on Xbox 360.

Asked for a review of the table, Crazy Dave expounded, "Wabby-wibby woooo. Whaaaa! Wanna watta win."

JoystiqZen Studios' Plants vs. Zombies pinball table lets in sunshine next week originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 31 Aug 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftpax-2012pax-prime-2012pinball-fx-2playstationplaystation-vitaPopCapPopCap-Gamesps3vitaxboxzen-pinball-2Zen-StudiosFri, 31 Aug 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: PopCap hit with international layoffs [Update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/21/report-popcap-hit-with-international-layoffs/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/21/report-popcap-hit-with-international-layoffs/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/21/report-popcap-hit-with-international-layoffs/#comments Report PopCap hit with international layoffsEA laid off employees of its PopCap studios in Dublin, Shanghai and Seattle, Duke Nukem creator George Broussard tweeted today, following an earlier message saying layoffs were "imminent" at PopCap. PopCap Dublin was shut down, Shanghai was "shrunk" and Seattle let go 50 people, according to Broussard.

PopCap may have been quietly firing people for months, VG24/7 reported.

EA acquired PopCap in August 2011 for $750 million, in the hopes it would "accelerate our drive towards a $1 billion digital business," EA CEO John Riccitiello said. Yesterday PopCap announced Plants vs. Zombies 2, which is expected to launch in late spring 2013.

We have reached out to EA and PopCap for more information.

Update 2: PopCap co-founder John Vechey has released a statement on today's layoffs, stating 50 people were let go today in North America.

"We've been able to invest in creative new games like Peggle and Plants vs. Zombies because we had a high profit business. That business is challenged, and if we don't adapt, we won't be able to invest in new IP," Vechey wrote. "That sounds harsh - but if we don't stay in business, no more plants, zombies, jewels, frogs or worms."

Update: Former PopCap employees are taking to Twitter, confirming a round of layoffs in Seattle that affects game directors and producers alike.

JoystiqReport: PopCap hit with international layoffs [Update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Aug 2012 14:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidEAElectronic-ArtsiosipadiphonelayoffsmacmicrosoftmobilepcplaystationPopCappopcap-gamesps3xboxTue, 21 Aug 2012 14:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Zen Pinball 2 on PS3/Vita, PopCap table this September]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/08/zen-pinball-2-on-ps3-vita-popcap-table-this-september/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/08/zen-pinball-2-on-ps3-vita-popcap-table-this-september/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/08/zen-pinball-2-on-ps3-vita-popcap-table-this-september/#comments Zen Studios' first PopCap pinball table coming 'end of summer'Zen Studios will pull back and launch Zen Pinball 2 for PlayStation 3 and Vita on September 4 through the PlayStation Network. The Zen Pinball 2 platform will support cross-platform play on PlayStation devices, meaning any Zen Pinball 2 table purchase will be playable on PS3 and Vita at no extra charge. Zen Pinball 2 will have 26 tables available at release (with free demos) and is a free update to Zen Pinball and Marvel Pinball.

Zen also announced today that its PopCap-branded table will pop up September 4 and 5 on PlayStation systems and Xbox 360, respectively. The company still hasn't revealed whether the table will be based on Plants vs. Zombies, Peggle or Bejeweled, but it plans to do that at PAX Prime, which takes place August 31 through September 2 in Seattle, Washington.

Continue reading Zen Pinball 2 on PS3/Vita, PopCap table this September

JoystiqZen Pinball 2 on PS3/Vita, PopCap table this September originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Aug 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftplaystationplaystation-vitapopcapPopCap-Gamesps3vitaxboxzen-pinball-2Zen-StudiosWed, 08 Aug 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Plants vs. Zombies spawns 'Talking Zombatar' app]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/26/plants-vs-zombies-spawns-talking-zombatar-app/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/26/plants-vs-zombies-spawns-talking-zombatar-app/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/26/plants-vs-zombies-spawns-talking-zombatar-app/#comments Plants vs. Zombies? More like Pants vs. Zombies, because ... you can buy new pants ... for a zombie ... in this new app. Sorry.

The latest PvZ release isn't a pseudo-tower defense game. Instead, it's "PvZ Presents: Talking Zombatar," an iOS/Android toy that lets you interact with an undead '80s pop singer pet Zombie. You can take photos and videos with your zombie, "hear him repeat your words in Zombie-ish," and - of course - buy new clothing items and full outfits using either in-game or real money.

It's coming out "later this year" along with a port of the Facebook game, Solitaire Blitz. Both are free-to-play.

Continue reading Plants vs. Zombies spawns 'Talking Zombatar' app

JoystiqPlants vs. Zombies spawns 'Talking Zombatar' app originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Jul 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidiosiphonemobilepopcappvz-presents-talking-zombatarsolitaire-blitzThu, 26 Jul 2012 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EA, Wooga pulling games from Google Plus]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/17/ea-wooga-pulling-games-from-google-plus/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/17/ea-wooga-pulling-games-from-google-plus/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/17/ea-wooga-pulling-games-from-google-plus/#comments EA, Wooga pulling games from Google PlusPopCap and Wooga-developed games will disappear from Google's social media platform, Google+. Wooga shut down Monster World prior to May 1, issuing their own "goodbye" to Google+. Electronic Arts will remove Bejeweled Blitz from the service on Monday in order to "redeploy our resources to other adaptations of Bejeweled," a PopCap spokesman told All Things D.

A Wooga customer care representative said the company "decided to remove certain games from Google+ because we have a much larger following on Facebook and they are active users." Wooga will remove Bubble Island and Diamond Dash from Google+ on July 1.

PopCap's spokesman added that "Google is a valuable gaming partner for PopCap and EA, and we'll continue to develop for Google platforms."

JoystiqEA, Wooga pulling games from Google Plus originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 17 Jun 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BejeweledBejeweled-Blitzbubble-islanddiamond-dashEAElectronic-Artsgoogle-plusmonster-worldpcPopCapwoogaSun, 17 Jun 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Zen Studios' first PopCap pinball table coming 'end of summer']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/08/zen-studios-first-popcap-pinball-table-coming-end-of-summer/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/08/zen-studios-first-popcap-pinball-table-coming-end-of-summer/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/08/zen-studios-first-popcap-pinball-table-coming-end-of-summer/#comments Zen Studios' first PopCap pinball table coming 'end of summer'Zen Studios passively announced a few months back it was working on some PopCap-branded pinball tables, and now the company tells us the first one will be available by "end of summer." The company didn't reveal any branded table specifics, but looking at PopCap's highest-profile games, we'd venture to guess: Plants vs. Zombies, Peggle or Bejeweled.

Despite working on new intellectual properties like CastleStorm and KickBeat, the Hungarian developer knows where its bread is buttered and plans to support Zen Pinball and Pinball FX 2 into the future.

JoystiqZen Studios' first PopCap pinball table coming 'end of summer' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Jun 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftmobileplaystationPopCapPopCap-Gamesps3xboxZen-StudiosFri, 08 Jun 2012 20:00:00 EST<![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