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[Take-Two Interactive bags 405% year-over-year profit increase during Q3 2013]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/05/take-two-interactive-bags-405-year-over-year-profit-increase-du/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/05/take-two-interactive-bags-405-year-over-year-profit-increase-du/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/05/take-two-interactive-bags-405-year-over-year-profit-increase-du/#comments Take-Two Interactive has released its financial report for the three month period ending on December 31, 2012, or "Q3 2013" in technical terms. The company raked in net revenue (read: gross income) of $415.7 million during that period; a 75.9 percent increase over the $236.3 million it earned in Q3 of fiscal 2012.

Net income (read: profit) was also up year-over-year, $71.3 million during Q3 2013 versus $14.1 million in 2012, which is an astonishing 405.9 percent increase. Meanwhile, Take-Two's nine month year-to-date figures are reporting a loss of $51.9 million, down from the $41.9 million loss reported at this same time in fiscal 2012.

Revenues accrued from digital sales were up 244 percent year-over-year, an increase that Take-Two attributes to Borderlands, Borderlands 2, XCOM: Enemy Unknown, NBA 2k13, the Grand Theft Auto series and all of those games' respective DLC.

JoystiqTake-Two Interactive bags 405% year-over-year profit increase during Q3 2013 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Feb 2013 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsfinancialsfiscal-2012microsoftnintendopcplaystationps3pspQ3-2012sonytake-twoTake-Two-InteractivewiixboxTue, 05 Feb 2013 16:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Activision reports $3.4 billion in cash and investments, no debt]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/07/activision-reports-3-4-billion-in-cash-and-investments-no-debt/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/07/activision-reports-3-4-billion-in-cash-and-investments-no-debt/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/07/activision-reports-3-4-billion-in-cash-and-investments-no-debt/#comments Activision reports $34 billion in cash, investments, raises outlookActivision Blizzard reports $841 million in net revenue for the third quarter of 2012, which is $100 million higher than its outlook of $740 million, and surpasses 2011's Q3 net revenue of $754. For the third year straight, Activision generated more than $1 billion of operating cash flow in the trailing 12-month period ending this quarter, on September 30.

Activision is in the black, with $3.4 billion available in cash and investments, and no debt to speak of, Activision Chief Financial Officer Dennis Durkin reports during a financial call.

"On September 30, we had no debt and $3.4 billion in cash and investments," Durkin says.

Activision cites World of Warcraft: Mists of Pandaria, Diablo 3 and Skylanders Spyro's Adventure as its main revenue drivers: Mists of Pandaria sold through 2.7 million copies in its first week, Diablo 3 has sold 10 million copies and Skylanders was the No. 1 action-figure line in the US for the first nine months of 2012, and topped game-sales charts.

With all that considered, plus the imminent launch of Black Ops 2, Activision raises its calendar-year outlook from $4.3 billion to $4.6 billion.

JoystiqActivision reports $3.4 billion in cash and investments, no debt originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Nov 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActivisionActivision-Blizzardfinancialsmicrosoftnintendopcplaystationps3Q3q3-2012wiiwii-uxboxWed, 07 Nov 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Zynga posts loss of $52.7 million in Q3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/24/zynga-posts-loss-of-52-7-million-in-q3/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/24/zynga-posts-loss-of-52-7-million-in-q3/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/24/zynga-posts-loss-of-52-7-million-in-q3/#comments Zynga has released its financial results for the third quarter of 2012, and while business-wide revenue is up year-over-year - $316 million vs. $306 million over the same period in 2011 - net income has fallen by a significant margin. Specifically, the social-gaming developer has reported a loss of $52.7 million over the course of Q3 2012, as compared with the $12.5 million in profit it experienced during Q3 2011.

The picture is much the same for the company's year-to-date financial situation, which places total revenue for 2012 at $970.1 million (well above 2011's $828.8 million), but still reports an overall loss of $160.8 million. By this time last year, Zynga was in the black to the tune of $30.6 million dollars.

The statement also makes mention of yesterday's events, with the closure of Zynga Boston and significant reduction of staff at Zynga Austin, both of which were part of a grander Cost Reduction Plan: "Zynga expects to complete a reduction in force of approximately 150 employees or approximately 5 percent of its current workforce, and implement additional cost reduction measures, including steps to rationalize its product pipeline, reduce marketing and technology expenditures and consolidate certain facilities."

It's worth noting that the "150 employees" referenced are full-time employees, and any contract/part-time workers terminated under the Cost Reduction Plan will not be counted towards that total.

JoystiqZynga posts loss of $52.7 million in Q3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Oct 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>financialsmacmobilepcQ3-2012ZyngaWed, 24 Oct 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tokyo Jungle finds a nest in North America September 25]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/20/tokyo-jungle-finds-a-nest-in-north-america-september-25/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/20/tokyo-jungle-finds-a-nest-in-north-america-september-25/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/20/tokyo-jungle-finds-a-nest-in-north-america-september-25/#comments Tokyo Jungle finds a nest in North America September 25
Sony only kind of announced Tokyo Jungle for North America at E3, but now we have an official release date for the animal survival adventure: September 25. The price is $14.99, which is much, much cheaper than the ¥3,900 ($49) asking price in Japan.

In case you missed our coverage, Tokyo Jungle is an oddly fascinating game in which you control one of 50 different animals - ranging from a chick to a dinosaur - trying to survive, find food, and mate in a ruined, post-apocalyptic Tokyo. A story mode takes you through the lives of a set of animals "whose lives are intertwined as they struggle to survive in the Tokyo wilderness, while unraveling the mystery of mankind's disappearance." In Survival Mode, you stay alive for as many generations as you can, hunting (or foraging), claiming territory, and avoiding larger predators.

JoystiqTokyo Jungle finds a nest in North America September 25 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Aug 2012 12:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstationps3psnq3-2012release-datetokyo-jungleMon, 20 Aug 2012 12:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Joe Danger 2: The Movie flipping to XBLA 'probably in the next month or so']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/20/joe-danger-2-the-movie-flipping-to-xbla-probably-in-the-next-m/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/20/joe-danger-2-the-movie-flipping-to-xbla-probably-in-the-next-m/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/20/joe-danger-2-the-movie-flipping-to-xbla-probably-in-the-next-m/#comments Joe Danger 2: The Movie from UK dev Hello Games is leaping to your Xbox 360 in the not-too-distant future. "We're pretty much complete," Hello Games head Sean Murray told us at Gamescom during a demo of the upcoming 2D Xbox Live Arcade racer. "We're showing the full game here, and hopefully people like it. Hopefully that means we're nearly finished," he said with a smile.

Thankfully for fans excited for the new game, reception at Gamescom was very positive. "It's been good, so the game is actually probably gonna come out in the next month or so. Something like that," Murray said.

There's only one thing standing between Joe Danger 2: The Movie and launch - certification. "That's where we're heading into now. We're doing the final, 'We shouldn't be changing anything, but we are.' Don't tell our QA!" And what about PlayStation 3 or PC versions? "At the moment, we're just showing and talking about 360. We kind of haven't made any other announcements or anything like that," Murray said. But? "But obviously the original came out on PS3 and 360, so ...," he trailed off. Take that as you will!

You'll also be glad to hear that the game is a load of fun - expect a full writeup from Gamescom 2012 later today.

JoystiqJoe Danger 2: The Movie flipping to XBLA 'probably in the next month or so' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Aug 2012 10:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamescom-2012hello-gamesjoe-danger-2-the-moviejoe-danger-the-moviemicrosoftplaystationplaystation-networkps3psnq3-2012release-datesean-murrayxblaxboxxbox-live-arcadeMon, 20 Aug 2012 10:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Indie shooter 'Gunblitz' blasts Ouya in March, PC in September]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/30/indie-shooter-gunblitz-blasts-ouya-in-march-pc-in-september/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/30/indie-shooter-gunblitz-blasts-ouya-in-march-pc-in-september/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/30/indie-shooter-gunblitz-blasts-ouya-in-march-pc-in-september/#comments Gunblitz
Will the new Ouya game console have at least one shmup? Oh, yeah. Indiana-based developer Rapture Game Studios plans to put its first game, the horizontal scrolling shooter Gunblitz, on the diminutive Android console in March.

Before that console is finally Kickstarted into existence, Rapture plans to put Gunblitz on regular-sized PCs in September. Rapture has already released a demo of this PC version - thereby anticipating the pseudo-free-to-play model of the Ouya, and letting you try the game out.

JoystiqIndie shooter 'Gunblitz' blasts Ouya in March, PC in September originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 Jul 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidgunblitzmobileouyapcq1-2013q3-2012rapture-game-studiosrelease-dateMon, 30 Jul 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Grand Theft Auto 3 coming to PSN next Tuesday, no word on Vice City just yet]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/27/grand-theft-auto-3-coming-to-psn-next-tuesday-no-word-on-vice-c/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/27/grand-theft-auto-3-coming-to-psn-next-tuesday-no-word-on-vice-c/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/27/grand-theft-auto-3-coming-to-psn-next-tuesday-no-word-on-vice-c/#comments When ESRB ratings for Grand Theft Auto 3 and Vice City on PlayStation 3 sprang up earlier this year, it seemed assured that the games were headed to PSN's PS2 classics section. Indeed, Grand Theft Auto 3 is joining the no-frills lineup next Tuesday for $10.

The news was revealed on the latest PlayStation podcast among other PSN releases for next week. Like all PS2 classics, GTA3 isn't getting an HD update or Trophy support. Also, that Vice City ESRB listing hasn't panned out just yet, but we're sure it's on the way.

JoystiqGrand Theft Auto 3 coming to PSN next Tuesday, no word on Vice City just yet originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Jul 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>grand-theft-auto-3playstationplaystation-2-classicsplaystation-networkps2-classicsps3psnq3-2012release-daterockstarrockstar-gamesrockstar-northtake-twotake-two-interactiveFri, 27 Jul 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gran Turismo 5 'Academy Edition' racing to stores on September 26]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/25/gran-turismo-5-academy-edition-racing-to-stores-on-september-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/25/gran-turismo-5-academy-edition-racing-to-stores-on-september-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/25/gran-turismo-5-academy-edition-racing-to-stores-on-september-2/#comments Gran Turismo 5 'Academy Edition' racing to stores on September 26This fall marks two years since Polyphony Digital's latest Gran Turismo screeched onto retailer shelves, and four years since the company partnered with Nissan on its GT Academy. As a result, the developer's celebrating with a special edition release of Gran Turismo 5 - "Academy Edition" - replete with the various car packs released since the launch in 2010.

More specifically, you'll also get Polyphony Digital creative lead Kazunori Yamauchi's fancy Nissan GTR that he raced in real life during the most recent Nurburgring 24-hour race. If you bought it in real life, it'd cost like a trillion dollars, so this is probably the best way to get access.

When the "Academy Edition" of Gran Turismo 5 launches this September 26, it'll cost €29.99/£19.99. The game doesn't have a price or launch date in the US just yet, but we expect to hear more on that front in the coming days.

JoystiqGran Turismo 5 'Academy Edition' racing to stores on September 26 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Jul 2012 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>academy-editiondlcgame-of-the-year-editionGran-Turismo-5gran-turismo-5-academy-editiongt-academykazunori-yamauchiplaystationpolyphony-digitalps3q3-2012release-datescesony-computer-entertainmentspecial-editionWed, 25 Jul 2012 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Torchlight 2 devs still planning summer launch]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/19/torchlight-2-devs-still-planning-summer-launch/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/19/torchlight-2-devs-still-planning-summer-launch/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/19/torchlight-2-devs-still-planning-summer-launch/#comments Runic Games' Torchlight 2 is still planned for launch at some point this summer, Runic president Travis Baldree tells us. "The end of summer is September 25th or something like that, right?" he asked. "We're still trying to get it done for summer. It's a big game and we've still got some polish to go."

A recent blog post from Baldree on his company's site was meant to allay the concerns of fans who pre-ordered the game many months ago - fans who have yet to get a solid release date from Runic. "People asked us to make pre-orders available. So, people were just interested in what was going on. There was some concern in the forums that we had gone off and were just twiddling our thumbs," he said. "We have a point in development where we'll say, 'Okay, we're ready to announce a date,' but we're just not there yet."

As of today, that gives Runic approximately two months to announce a release date and, uh, actually release its game. Fingers crossed!

JoystiqTorchlight 2 devs still planning summer launch originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Jul 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>pcq3-2012release-daterunicrunic-gamestorchlight-2travis-baldreeThu, 19 Jul 2012 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tony Hawk's Pro Skater HD gleaming the cube on PC as well]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/11/tony-hawks-pro-skater-hd-gleaming-the-cube-on-pc-as-well/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/11/tony-hawks-pro-skater-hd-gleaming-the-cube-on-pc-as-well/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/11/tony-hawks-pro-skater-hd-gleaming-the-cube-on-pc-as-well/#comments Tony Hawk's Pro Skater HD also kickflippin' to PCAbove, you see Tony Hawk grinding down a pipe. Nothing out of the ordinary there. In actuality, though, it's Tony Hawk grinding down a pipe on a PC in Tony Hawk's Pro Skater HD. You'll excuse us if we've totally blown your mind.

Tony Hawk's Pro Skater HD is heading to PC, though Robomodo isn't offering a date just yet - it will arrive "later this summer." Expect to see it a few weeks after it hits Xbox Live Arcade this July.

In honor of today's news, Activision released two new trailers and a batch of screens, below and beyond the break.

Gallery: Tony Hawk Pro Skater HD (7/11/12)

Continue reading Tony Hawk's Pro Skater HD gleaming the cube on PC as well

JoystiqTony Hawk's Pro Skater HD gleaming the cube on PC as well originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Jul 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>pcq3-2012release-daterobomodotony-hawktony-hawk-pro-skater-hdtony-hawks-pro-skater-hdtwitterWed, 11 Jul 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Walking Dead's third episode due 'middle of August,' Telltale says]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/06/the-walking-deads-third-episode-due-middle-of-august-telltal/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/06/the-walking-deads-third-episode-due-middle-of-august-telltal/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/06/the-walking-deads-third-episode-due-middle-of-august-telltal/#comments Despite some launch setbacks with its last Walking Dead episode, Telltale Games wants to reassure fans that the third episode in the series - "Long Road Ahead" - launches in "the middle of August." The company's blog announced as much in an apologetic letter, where a company rep said, "Although we can't give you an exact date at this time, we can say that episode three will be ready in the middle of August, and that we and our partners will do all we can to release all platforms and regions as close together as possible."

The Walking Dead's episodic series received critical praise and commercial success since the first episode launched earlier this year. The game's third episode is set for launch this August, with two more planned episodes launching in subsequent months.

JoystiqThe Walking Dead's third episode due 'middle of August,' Telltale says originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Jul 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>iosipadiphonemacmicrosoftmobilepcplaystationps3q3-2012release-datetelltaletelltale-gamesthe-walking-deadxboxFri, 06 Jul 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Swift Stitch collects shinies on iOS this week via Nicalis]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/02/swift-stitch-collects-shinies-on-ios-this-week-via-nicalis/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/02/swift-stitch-collects-shinies-on-ios-this-week-via-nicalis/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/02/swift-stitch-collects-shinies-on-ios-this-week-via-nicalis/#comments Swift Stitch comes to iOS this week via NicalisContinuing its partnerships with interesting indies (Studio Pixel, Nifflas, etc.), developer and publisher Nicalis is bringing Sophie Houlden's vector-style racing/puzzle/maze game Swift Stitch to iOS on July 5.

It's difficult to explain the mechanics - hold a button to turn, hit certain barriers to flip horizontal or vertical direction - so instead allow us to direct you to this browser-based demo. The simple one-button controls seem perfectly matched to touchscreen devices, though maybe our brains aren't perfectly matched to the game, as our frequent and sudden meetings with walls would suggest.

The iOS version will be free to download, with ten levels available in the initial version. The full game is available as an in-app purchase for .99, or $1.99 after launch week.

Gallery: Swift Stitch

Continue reading Swift Stitch collects shinies on iOS this week via Nicalis

JoystiqSwift Stitch collects shinies on iOS this week via Nicalis originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Jul 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>app-storeiosipadiphoneitunesmobilenicalisq3-2012release-datesophie-houldenswift-stitchMon, 02 Jul 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rainbow Moon random battling onto US PSN on July 10]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/26/rainbow-moon-random-battling-onto-us-psn-on-july-10/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/26/rainbow-moon-random-battling-onto-us-psn-on-july-10/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/26/rainbow-moon-random-battling-onto-us-psn-on-july-10/#comments
Rainbow Moon's funky-looking self is heading to the US PlayStation Network on July 10, SideQuest Studios CEO Marcus Pukropski says. For us normal folk, the game'll run $14.99, whereas PlayStation Plus subs get the game at a 20 percent discount ($11.99).

"But what in the hell is Rainbow Moon?," you wonder? Good question! Luckily the handy video above is here to tell you just that (spoilers: it's an RPG from the Soldner-X folks).

JoystiqRainbow Moon random battling onto US PSN on July 10 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Jun 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>marcus-pukropskiplaystationplaystation-networkps3psnq3-2012rainbow-moonrelease-datesidequest-studiosTue, 26 Jun 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[SimCity Social, a Facebook game you may actually care about, launches today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/25/simcity-social-a-facebook-game-you-may-actually-care-about-lau/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/25/simcity-social-a-facebook-game-you-may-actually-care-about-lau/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/25/simcity-social-a-facebook-game-you-may-actually-care-about-lau/#comments In writing this post informing you that SimCity Social is now live (in "open beta") on Facebook, I may or may not have played SimCity Social for 25 minutes without realizing it. And then I discovered full screen mode, which makes it look even more like SimCity.

What I'm trying to tell you is that the game is live. And that I want to go play more of it. Because it's SimCity. You should probably check it out too, right here.

Perhaps you'd like to know more before proceeding? We've got that covered too!

JoystiqSimCity Social, a Facebook game you may actually care about, launches today originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Jun 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-maxiselectronic-artsfacebookmacmaxispcplayfishq3-2012release-datesimcity-socialMon, 25 Jun 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Skyrim's 'Dawnguard' DLC arrives tomorrow 'for English territories,' mid-July elsewhere]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/25/psa-skyrims-dawnguard-dlc-arrives-tomorrow-for-english-terr/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/25/psa-skyrims-dawnguard-dlc-arrives-tomorrow-for-english-terr/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/25/psa-skyrims-dawnguard-dlc-arrives-tomorrow-for-english-terr/#comments Your chance to become a vampire lord and block out Skyrim's sun forever becomes (virtual) reality tomorrow with the launch of Skyrim's first major expansion, "Dawnguard." Of course, if you can't speak English (how are you reading this?!) but can speak French, Italian, German, or Spanish, it won't be available for another few weeks. If you speak something else ... well, you might be skunked. But again, you're probably not reading this if that's the case. Also, you smell like feet. Take that, person who can't understand what we're saying!

Continue reading PSA: Skyrim's 'Dawnguard' DLC arrives tomorrow 'for English territories,' mid-July elsewhere

JoystiqPSA: Skyrim's 'Dawnguard' DLC arrives tomorrow 'for English territories,' mid-July elsewhere originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Jun 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bethesdabethesda-game-studiosbethesda-softworksdawnguarddlcdownloadable-contentelder-scrolls-5expansionkinectmicrosoftpsapublic-service-announcementq3-2012release-dateskyrimthe-elder-scrolls-v-skyrimxboxMon, 25 Jun 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA['Journey: Collector's Edition' gets 'exclusive minigames,' all three soundtracks on Aug. 28 for $30]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/25/journey-collectors-edition-gets-exclusive-minigames-all-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/25/journey-collectors-edition-gets-exclusive-minigames-all-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/25/journey-collectors-edition-gets-exclusive-minigames-all-t/#comments 'Journey Collector's Edition' gets 'exclusive minigames,' all three soundtracks
Journey Collector's Edition's contents got a lot clearer this morning, as thatgamecompany revealed the box art and more details on its website. The collection comprises all three thatgamecompany PSN games - Flow, Flower, and Journey - and also includes a one-month PS Plus membership, "exclusive mini games," creator commentary audio tracks, soundtracks for all three games, and a variety of other bonuses (the full list is below the break).

The re-release launches on August 28 for $30 in North America ("info for additional territories to be announced soon"), and the minigames are described as "three exclusive mini-games born out of a thatgamecompany tradition: the 24hr Game Jam." The three games, "Gravediggers," "Nostril Shot," and "Duke War!!," were each created by TGC "start to finish in 24 hours," and their release with this collection marks the first time the trio can be played (except for those who played the games while visiting TGC).

There's also reversible cover art on the box - TGC's first physical release - which excites us greatly. Remember that sweet Ico/Shadow of the Colossus reversible cover art? That was pretty much the best. We're hoping this woos us even more.

Continue reading 'Journey: Collector's Edition' gets 'exclusive minigames,' all three soundtracks on Aug. 28 for $30

Joystiq'Journey: Collector's Edition' gets 'exclusive minigames,' all three soundtracks on Aug. 28 for $30 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Jun 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>documentaryduke-warflowflowergravediggersjourneyjourney-collectors-editionminigamesnostril-shotplaystationps3q3-2012release-datesceasony-computer-entertainment-americasoundtracktgcthatgamecompanyMon, 25 Jun 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Marvel Pinball 3D saves the eShop June 28]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/25/marvel-pinball-3d-saves-the-eshop-june-28/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/25/marvel-pinball-3d-saves-the-eshop-june-28/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/25/marvel-pinball-3d-saves-the-eshop-june-28/#comments Marvel Pinball 3D saves the eShop June 28For those of you who choose to "Make Mine Marvel!" even when it comes to pinball simulations, Zen Studios will release Zen Pinball 3D on the 3DS eShop this Thursday, June 28, for $7.99 or €7.

The pinball sim puts four superhero-themed tables all up in your face, including Iron Man, Blade, Captain America, and the Fantastic Four - all tables that have been featured in the console Marvel Pinball game. None of the tables follow the journey of a newly created superhero with the power to control a giant silver ball with his mind, which seems like a missed opportunity.

Gallery: Mavel Pinball 3D (E3 2012)

Continue reading Marvel Pinball 3D saves the eShop June 28

JoystiqMarvel Pinball 3D saves the eShop June 28 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Jun 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dseshopmarvel-pinball-3dnintendoq3-2012release-datezen-studiosMon, 25 Jun 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Kirby's Dream Collection expectorated into North America Sept. 16]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/22/kirbys-dream-collection-expectorated-into-north-america-sept-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/22/kirbys-dream-collection-expectorated-into-north-america-sept-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/22/kirbys-dream-collection-expectorated-into-north-america-sept-1/#comments Kirby's Dream Collection expectorated into North America Sept 16
Kirby's Dream Collection will dreamily collect several classic Kirby games starting September 16 in North America. The Wii set includes emulated versions of Kirby's Dream Land 1, 2, and 3, Kirby's Adventure, Kirby Super Star, and Kirby 64.

Unlike the Super Mario All-Stars special edition, which was just an SNES ROM on a disc, this also comes with exclusive new material, like challenge stages in the Kirby's Return to Dream Land engine and a virtual museum/timeline. The collection also includes a soundtrack and a booklet.

JoystiqKirby's Dream Collection expectorated into North America Sept. 16 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Jun 2012 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kirbys-dream-collectionnintendoq3-2012release-datewiiFri, 22 Jun 2012 19:45:00 EST<![CDATA[New 3DS coming to US August 19 for $199.99]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/22/new-3ds-coming-to-us-august-19-for-199-99/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/22/new-3ds-coming-to-us-august-19-for-199-99/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/22/new-3ds-coming-to-us-august-19-for-199-99/#comments New 3DS coming to US August 19 for $19999The newly announced "3DS LL" will be released in North America on August 19 as the "Nintendo 3DS XL." It'll cost $199.99 and come in either red or blue, with a 4GB SD card. The release date is concurrent with New Super Mario Bros. 2.

The 3DS XL has a 4.88 inch upper screen, for a 90 percent larger viewing area than the 3.5-inch top screen of the current 3DS model. The bottom screen is also larger, at 4.18 inches.

The Japanese and European versions will ship without AC adapters as a money-saving measure (really!), as they are compatible with existing 3DS and DSi XL power adapters. It is currently unannounced whether the North American version will include a power cord, though we can't believe that's a question now.

Gallery: 3DS Hardware Update US Version (6/21/2012)

JoystiqNew 3DS coming to US August 19 for $199.99 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Jun 2012 00:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3ds3ds-ll3ds-xlnintendonintendo-directq3-2012release-dateFri, 22 Jun 2012 00:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Rainbow Moon waxes into Europe July 4, other regions later in July]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/18/rainbow-moon-waxes-into-europe-july-4-other-regions-later-in-ju/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/18/rainbow-moon-waxes-into-europe-july-4-other-regions-later-in-ju/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/18/rainbow-moon-waxes-into-europe-july-4-other-regions-later-in-ju/#comments Rainbow Moon touching down in Europe on July 4, other regions in 'July'Developer Sidequest Studios and publisher Eastasiasoft are following the Soldner-X shooter series with the PS3 downloadable role-playing game, Rainbow Moon. It's about a man cursed and transported to the title location, which is also host to a dimensional gate out of which monsters are continually escaping.

Rainbow Moon will pass through a dimensional gate of its own on July 4, landing on the PlayStation Store in Europe, Eastasiasoft announced today. North America and Southeast Asia will follow, sometime in July, for $14.99.

Gallery: Rainbow Moon (6/18/12)

Continue reading Rainbow Moon waxes into Europe July 4, other regions later in July

JoystiqRainbow Moon waxes into Europe July 4, other regions later in July originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Jun 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eastasiasofteuropeplaystationps3psnq3-2012rainbow-moonrelease-datesidequest-studiosMon, 18 Jun 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Super Mario Bros. 2 headed to 3DS on August 19]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/05/new-super-mario-bros-2-headed-to-3ds-on-august-19/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/05/new-super-mario-bros-2-headed-to-3ds-on-august-19/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/05/new-super-mario-bros-2-headed-to-3ds-on-august-19/#comments New Super Mario Bros 2 headed to 3DS on August 19Mario's getting "new" yet again on Nintendo's 3DS this summer. EVP of sales and marketing Scott Moffitt took to Nintendo's E3 press conference stage this morning to unveil an August 19 launch date for New Super Mario Bros. 2. He also showed a bunch of gameplay that ... well, looks pretty nice.

JoystiqNew Super Mario Bros. 2 headed to 3DS on August 19 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Jun 2012 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dse3-2012new-super-mario-bros-2nintendoq3-2012release-dateTue, 05 Jun 2012 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Sound Shapes coming to PS3, both versions out August 7]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/04/sound-shapes-coming-to-ps3-both-versions-out-august-7/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/04/sound-shapes-coming-to-ps3-both-versions-out-august-7/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/04/sound-shapes-coming-to-ps3-both-versions-out-august-7/#comments Sound Shapes coming to PS3 concurrent with Vita version
After a long Sound Shapes-filled commute, you can go home and play more Sound Shapes. Developer Queasy Games just announced that it'll be released day-and-date with the Vita version.

So ... when is that date? August 7, for $14.99. Best of all, if you buy it on one system, you'll get it on both. User-generated content can be shared between versions. You'll be able to see the PS3 version on Sony's livestream at about 5:30PT, and you can see the Vita version (played by composer Jim Guthrie) up here.

JoystiqSound Shapes coming to PS3, both versions out August 7 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Jun 2012 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstationplaystation-vitaps3q3-2012release-datesound-shapesvitaMon, 04 Jun 2012 11:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Vita getting cat videos ... er, YouTube by the end of June]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/01/vita-getting-cat-videos-er-youtube-by-the-end-of-june/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/01/vita-getting-cat-videos-er-youtube-by-the-end-of-june/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/01/vita-getting-cat-videos-er-youtube-by-the-end-of-june/#comments Vita getting cat videos er, YouTube by the end of JuneTired of rewatching that UMD copy of Spider-Man 2 over and over? Well, Sony's ... oh, what's that? Oh, right, Vita, not PSP! Let's try this again.

Tired of replaying that copy of Lumines over and over? Well, Sony's got a whole mess of video content heading to your PlayStation Vita in the coming weeks, via wildly popular internet video service YouTube. According to SCEA director of handheld consoles product planning and platform software innovation Don Mesa (breath), YouTube will arrive on the Vita in app form by "the end of June."

It's unclear if the service's offerings will be any different on Vita compared to on a computer, or if it'll allow uploading directly from the Vita (not to mention using video shot with the Vita itself). Hopefully next week's big show will help clear that up.

JoystiqVita getting cat videos ... er, YouTube by the end of June originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Jun 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsplaystationplaystation-vitaq3-2012release-datevitayoutubeFri, 01 Jun 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sports Champions 2 takes a victory lap on PS Move this fall]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/31/sports-champions-2-takes-a-victory-lap-on-ps-move-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/31/sports-champions-2-takes-a-victory-lap-on-ps-move-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/31/sports-champions-2-takes-a-victory-lap-on-ps-move-this-fall/#comments Image
You probably ended up with a copy of Sports Champions if you purchased a PlayStation Move, either because it was bundled or because you're required to own at least one sports minigame collection per motion controller (it's the law).

Today, Sony revealed a followup to its obligatory sports game, due this fall. Sports Champions 2 includes skiing, boxing, tennis, golf, bowling, and "a fully updated Archery experience." Sony also promises tweaks like simpler calibration, more opportunities to customize your avatar, and multiple user profiles.

The new "Party Play" mode lets users set playlists of matches, then compete for score. "You can create your own match playlist, see photos and voices from each player during the game, and draw something humiliating (or nice!) on the hapless loser," says producer Jeremy Ray. He probably means in the game. You always had the option of drawing on your friends.

JoystiqSports Champions 2 takes a victory lap on PS Move this fall originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 31 May 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fall-2012moveplaystationps3q3-2012release-datesceasony-computer-entertainment-americasports-champions-2zindagi-gamesThu, 31 May 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ratchet & Clank: Full Frontal Assault is Insomniac's next PSN game, arriving this fall]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/30/ratchet-and-clank-full-frontal-assault-is-insomniacs-next-psn-ga/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/30/ratchet-and-clank-full-frontal-assault-is-insomniacs-next-psn-ga/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/30/ratchet-and-clank-full-frontal-assault-is-insomniacs-next-psn-ga/#comments ImageRatchet & Clank are heading once more into the space breach, this time waging a "Full Frontal Assault" against space crabs with gatling guns, it seems. Insomniac head (and general nice dude) Ted Price took to the US PlayStation Blog this afternoon to announce "Ratchet & Clank: Full Frontal Assault" for PlayStation Network, alongside plans to launch the game "this holiday season."

Aside from the artwork you see above and the logo we've dropped in the gallery below, Price offered few details on the game. He said it'll be a "fun-sized" R&C title (like Ratchet & Clank Future: Quest for Booty before it), and that the game will return to "the series' classic feel, camera, controls, and weapons, while innovating and giving you a whole new way to play." What that means is another question altogether. Price also said that the game will feature online co-op, but kept details similarly slim.

Gallery: Ratchet & Clank: Full Frontal Assault

JoystiqRatchet & Clank: Full Frontal Assault is Insomniac's next PSN game, arriving this fall originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 May 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>insomniacinsomniac-gamesplaystationplaystation-networkps3psnq3-2012q4-2012ratchet-and-clank-full-frontal-assaultrelease-dateted-priceWed, 30 May 2012 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Darksiders 2 rides into retail August 14]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/darksiders-2-rides-into-retail-august-14/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/darksiders-2-rides-into-retail-august-14/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/darksiders-2-rides-into-retail-august-14/#comments Image"We look forward to launching Darksiders [2] beginning on August 14 in North America," announced THQ CEO Brian Farrell during an investor conference call today. Farrell said that the delay from the previous June date was a "demonstration of our commitment to quality" - and that, after discussions with retailers, the publisher determined that "mid-August is a more favorable release window."

Pre-orders for Darksiders 2 are more than five times what they were for the first game at the equivalent point before release, Farrell noted. THQ is accompanying this release with double the marketing spend of the first game as well - it needs a hit game, and badly.

JoystiqDarksiders 2 rides into retail August 14 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 May 2012 17:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>darksiders-2microsoftnintendopcplaystationps3q3-2012release-datewii-uxboxTue, 15 May 2012 17:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Dragon Quest X goes online in Japan August 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/dragon-quest-x-goes-online-in-japan-august-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/dragon-quest-x-goes-online-in-japan-august-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/dragon-quest-x-goes-online-in-japan-august-2/#comments ImageDragon Quest X, the Wii continuation of Square Enix's real flagship series - and the one that is an MMO this time - will launch in Japan on August 2, Square Enix announced today. The base retail price for the actual disc and stuff is ¥6,980 ($86); this includes 20 days of free play. A limited edition will include a USB memory stick for an extra ¥2,000. A Wii U version is still on the way, but all details are "undecided."

Of course, there are also the fees to contend with. For ¥1,000 ($12.35), you can get a 30-day voucher allowing you to play with up to three characters; 60 days runs ¥1,950 ($24), and 90 days costs ¥2,900 ($36). Wii Points can also be used to buy DQX time, in equivalent denominations.

JoystiqDragon Quest X goes online in Japan August 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dragon-quest-xjapannintendoq3-2012release-datewiiThu, 26 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Benjamin Rivers' 'Home' arrives June 1, pre-orders start today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/benjamin-rivers-home-arrives-june-1-pre-orders-start-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/benjamin-rivers-home-arrives-june-1-pre-orders-start-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/benjamin-rivers-home-arrives-june-1-pre-orders-start-today/#comments ImageHome, the pixel-art horror/adventure game that first caught our frightened little eyes last October will be available for the PC on June 1, in your choice of "Regular" and "Old-School Collector's" editions.

Home's Regular Edition rings up at $2.00 and entitles you to a DRM-free download of the game, whereas the Old-School Collector's Edition has been created specifically for "players who love classic packaging and think physical media is more than just a delivery method." At $20.00 (plus shipping and handling), the Collector's Edition includes a "classic-style" manual, "exclusive game-universe artifacts," a town map plus "mapping tools to help you find your way" and "maybe some other delicious secrets."

Pre-orders go live today, and everyone that pre-orders either version will receive a set of wallpapers as a bonus tchotchke. Take a look at the Collector's Edition and some shiny new screenshots in the gallery below, if you dare.

Gallery: Home (Release Date/Collector's Set reveal)

Continue reading Benjamin Rivers' 'Home' arrives June 1, pre-orders start today

JoystiqBenjamin Rivers' 'Home' arrives June 1, pre-orders start today originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>benjamin-riversBenjamin-Rivers-GamesHomeHome-A-Unique-Horror-Adventureindieindie-gamespcq3-2012release-dateTue, 24 Apr 2012 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Kingdom Hearts 3D closes the Dream Drop Distance in Europe July 20]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/kingdom-hearts-3d-closes-the-dream-drop-distance-in-europe-july/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/kingdom-hearts-3d-closes-the-dream-drop-distance-in-europe-july/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/kingdom-hearts-3d-closes-the-dream-drop-distance-in-europe-july/#comments ImageOne of the announcements from Europe's Nintendo Direct presentation this weekend was the release date for Kingdom Hearts 3D [Dream Drop Distance], whose punctuation we had to look up just now. Today, Square Enix issued its own announcement, which doesn't require watching a video.

The 3DS Disney/Square crossover game will arrive in PAL territories on July 20, ahead of the July 31 release date in North America. You'll all be keyblade masters, having earned the respect and high fives of King Mickey, by the time the game shows up domestically.

JoystiqKingdom Hearts 3D closes the Dream Drop Distance in Europe July 20 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Apr 2012 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dseuropekingdom-hearts-3dkingdom-hearts-3d-dream-drop-distancenintendoq3-2012Mon, 23 Apr 2012 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft Q3 results: 1.4 million 360s sold, Entertainment division revenue down year-over-year]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/microsoft-q3-results-1-4-million-360s-sold-entertainment-divis/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/microsoft-q3-results-1-4-million-360s-sold-entertainment-divis/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/microsoft-q3-results-1-4-million-360s-sold-entertainment-divis/#comments ImageDespite being the number one best-selling console in America for fifteen months running, the 360's success wasn't enough to prevent Microsoft's Entertainment and Devices Division from being the only section of the company to post a year-over-year decline in revenue during the third quarter of fiscal 2012.

The Entertainment and Devices Division, which includes Microsoft's gaming businesses and the Windows Phone platform, finished the period ending on March 31, 2012 with $1.62 billion in revenue - a 16 percent drop over the same period in fiscal 2011. During Q3 2012, Microsoft sold 1.4 million 360s, a 48 percent drop year-over-year.

When the entirety of fiscal 2012 is taken into account, however, the Entertainment and Devices Division is actually up as far as revenue is concerned: $7.84 billion so far in fiscal 2012 as compared to $7.42 billion by this time in fiscal 2011. The devision's operation income, on the other hand, is down year-over-year, posting at $627 million for the first nine months of fiscal 2012, compared to $1.24 billion for this time last year.

Otherwise, Microsoft's Q3 performance was strong across all fronts: Overall quarterly revenue rang up at $17.41 billion, a six percent increase over Q3 2011, with a business-wide operating income of $6.37 billion, a 12 percent year-over-year increase.

JoystiqMicrosoft Q3 results: 1.4 million 360s sold, Entertainment division revenue down year-over-year originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>financekinectmicrosoftmobilepcQ3-2012sales-figurexboxThu, 19 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sleeping Dogs awaken on August 14; pre-order bonuses defined]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/sleeping-dogs-awaken-on-august-14-pre-orders-defined/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/sleeping-dogs-awaken-on-august-14-pre-orders-defined/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/sleeping-dogs-awaken-on-august-14-pre-orders-defined/#comments ImageHong Kong-based action game Sleeping Dogs will launch at retail on August 14. Publisher Square Enix announced the game's launch date this morning alongside news of three separate pre-order bonuses tied to three separate retailers: Best Buy, GameStop, and Amazon.

Should you choose to go the brick-and-mortar route, Best Buy is offering the "Georges St. Pierre Pack," which features a trio of GSP-related gear and moves (his "signature flying punch," for instance). GameStop is similarly offering a slew of in-game content, dubbed the "Police Protection Pack. As you might imagine, it comes with a variety of police officer-themed gear. Finally, Amazon has the "Martial Arts Pack," which ... well ... you get it at this point, right? For full listings of all the gear, head past the break.

Oh, and if you're a PC gamer wondering what your fancy pre-order bonus is, know that Square Enix hasn't forgotten about you: "Exclusive content for the digitally downloadable PC version of Sleeping Dogs will be announced at a later date," the press release reads.

Continue reading Sleeping Dogs awaken on August 14; pre-order bonuses defined

JoystiqSleeping Dogs awaken on August 14; pre-order bonuses defined originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Apr 2012 10:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftpcplaystationps3q3-2012release-datesleeping-dogssquare-enixunited-front-gamesxboxFri, 13 Apr 2012 10:12:00 EST<![CDATA['Pokemon Conquest' brings Nobunaga's Ambition stateside on June 18]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/04/pokemon-conquest-brings-nobunagas-ambition-stateside-on-june/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/04/pokemon-conquest-brings-nobunagas-ambition-stateside-on-june/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/04/pokemon-conquest-brings-nobunagas-ambition-stateside-on-june/#comments ImageYes, that's a factual headline above: Nintendo is publishing the bizarre crossover of Pokemon Plus Nobunaga's Ambition in the US as "Pokemon Conquest" for the Nintendo DS. And yes, you also read that right -- Pokemon Conquest marks the second Pokemon game heading to the DS in 2012 rather than the 3DS (Pokemon Black/White Version 2 being the other).

Unlike main series Pokemon games, Tecmo Koei handled development rather than Game Freak. Conquest is also a 2D adventure set in the world of Ransei, where players inhabit "a young warlord who is linked with a Pokemon." Pokemon Conquest arrives on June 18.

Gallery: Pokémon Conquest

Pokémon Conquest

Joystiq'Pokemon Conquest' brings Nobunaga's Ambition stateside on June 18 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Apr 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dskoeinintendopokemon-conquestpokemon-plus-nobunagas-ambitionq3-2012release-datetecmotecmo-koeithe-pokemon-companyWed, 04 Apr 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ubisoft dates Rocksmith for UK despite trademark issue]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/ubisoft-dates-rocksmith-for-uk-despite-trademark-issue/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/ubisoft-dates-rocksmith-for-uk-despite-trademark-issue/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/ubisoft-dates-rocksmith-for-uk-despite-trademark-issue/#comments Ubisoft has issued a September 14 release date for its guitar teaching program Rocksmith in the UK. There's a small problem with that: Ubisoft hasn't actually cleared the trademark dispute that pushed the game into 2012 in the first place. "No agreement/deal has been reached and no meaningful dialogue engaged," Kris Ford, percussionist for the band Rocksmith, told Eurogamer.

Ford said the release date announcement was "interesting but no surprise." Proceedings with the European trademark office are expected to continue through June. Giving a date to the game is "a bit presumptive to say the least, as to the outcome of that process and decision." He admitted that Ubisoft could just launch the game as it did in the US, "which will mean the start of a different kind of legal battle in the UK courts." Ford then went on to hope for "another English victory" close to the anniversary of the Battle of Agincourt. Really.

JoystiqUbisoft dates Rocksmith for UK despite trademark issue originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Mar 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftpcplaystationps3q3-2012release-daterocksmithtrademarkubisoftukxboxWed, 21 Mar 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Bellator MMA Onslaught brings arcade-style grappling to XBLA and PSN]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/10/bellator-mma-onslaught-brings-arcade-style-grappling-to-xbla-and/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/10/bellator-mma-onslaught-brings-arcade-style-grappling-to-xbla-and/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/10/bellator-mma-onslaught-brings-arcade-style-grappling-to-xbla-and/#comments During GDC, Deadliest Warrior publisher 345 Games showed off its latest licensed project, a mixed martial arts game based on the "Bellator" MMA organization, which can be seen on 345 partner Spike TV. 345 informed me that the major hook of Bellator is that fighters advance through single-elimination tournaments rather than having bouts chosen.

In general, however, the idea is that you don't have to be a person who knows the nuances of MMA organizations, or an armchair MMA strategist, to understand the gameplay of Bellator MMA Onslaught, as it's designed with simplicity and pick-up-and-play qualities in mind.

In the demo I saw, punches and kicks were mapped to one button each (left and right punch, left and right kick), and grappling maneuvers are mapped to the right stick, allowing you to reach out and then push the right stick in different directions to perform different holds, attempt to get out from a hold, etc. -- the technical stuff of MMA fighting, turned into a simple mechanic.

The version I played was considered early -- the TV-style UI was not yet present, and developer Kung Fu Factory and 345 had yet to even decide on all the mechanics to be included. The final game is due this summer.

Gallery: Bellator MMA Onslaught (XBLA/PSN)

JoystiqBellator MMA Onslaught brings arcade-style grappling to XBLA and PSN originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 10 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>345-gamesbellator-mma-onslaughtgdc-2012kung-fu-factorypsnq2-2012q3-2012release-datespike-tvxblaSat, 10 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlefield 3: Close Quarters announced for June, two more packs incoming]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/battlefield-3-close-quarters-announced-for-june-two-more-packs/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/battlefield-3-close-quarters-announced-for-june-two-more-packs/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/battlefield-3-close-quarters-announced-for-june-two-more-packs/#comments Battlefield 3: Close Quarters, the first major paid piece of DLC for the game since last December's "Back to Karkand," is coming this June. The expansion includes four maps, 10 weapons and no vehicles -- it's about close quarters, after all.

There will be two more expansions for the game following the June expansion. "Armored Kill" will focus on additional weapons, larger maps, and new drivable vehicles. The second pack, called "End Game," features cover art depicting a lunatic holding a knife. That's the extent of what we know about that one so far.

The news of this expansion comes at a critical time. Frustrations in the Battlefield 3 community has been bubbling into potential action, and EA has maintained radio silence until now.

JoystiqBattlefield 3: Close Quarters announced for June, two more packs incoming originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-3battlefield-3-armored-killbattlefield-3-close-quartersbattlefield-3-end-gameDICEdlcdownloadable-contentEAea-diceElectronic-Artsexpansionmicrosoftpcplaystationps3q3-2012release-datexboxWed, 07 Mar 2012 08:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Epic Games China bringing Mercenary Ops exclusively to NA/EU computers this summer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/06/epic-games-china-bringing-mercenary-ops-exclusively-to-na-eu-com/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/06/epic-games-china-bringing-mercenary-ops-exclusively-to-na-eu-com/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/06/epic-games-china-bringing-mercenary-ops-exclusively-to-na-eu-com/#comments There's a whole group of folks at Epic Games China and they're working hard on the first big title from Epic Games' eastern subsidiary. The game, Mercenary Ops, is a ... somewhat derivative third-person shooter built in Unreal Engine 3, which uses cover, blind fire, and active reloading mechanics (from the Gears of War franchise) as main gameplay concepts. Given the "mercenary dudes" setting, the combination of Gears gameplay and bro'd out characters gives it a Gears of War meets Call of Duty feeling, as we discovered during a brief hands-on session today at GDC 2012. So ... yeah, perfectly competent, but not the most original.

Perhaps more interesting, the game isn't being published by EGC's American parent company, but instead a brand new North American publisher named Delkans. And what in the world is Delkans? That's a good question -- one that company reps weren't willing to supply an answer for when repeatedly asked during our meeting today. Apparently the publisher is made up of folks from the tech industry, though that's all we could pull out of reps.

Mercenary Ops is planned for a summer 2012 launch in North America and Europe, with Asian markets potentially following (Delkans isn't talking solid plans just yet).

Gallery: Mercenary Ops

JoystiqEpic Games China bringing Mercenary Ops exclusively to NA/EU computers this summer originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>delkansepic-gamesepic-games-chinagdcgdc-2012mercenary-opspcq2-2012q3-2012release-dateTue, 06 Mar 2012 19:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Inversion flipping out in North America on June 5, June 8 in Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/05/inversion-flipping-out-in-north-america-on-june-5-june-8-in-eur/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/05/inversion-flipping-out-in-north-america-on-june-5-june-8-in-eur/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/05/inversion-flipping-out-in-north-america-on-june-5-june-8-in-eur/#comments Perhaps we should send out Joystiq-themed calendars to game publishers with clear explanations of when seasons begin and end, and maybe a note with the definition of "early" and "late." Despite Namco telling us back in late January that Inversion would arrive in "early 2012" (it was the 24th, so it was actually late in the month), it looks like the game isn't arriving until early June (as in "the fifth and the eighth for North America and Europe, respectively, which isn't even remotely in "early 2012").

Namco said the extra time in the oven will give Saber Interactive "the opportunity to create an enjoyable and engaging third-person shooter experience with a comprehensive multiplayer component." We had just assumed that the graphics needed tightening on level three or something, but then that's why we're not game devs, eh?

Continue reading Inversion flipping out in North America on June 5, June 8 in Europe

JoystiqInversion flipping out in North America on June 5, June 8 in Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Mar 2012 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>delayinversionnamcoq3-2012release-datesaber-interactiveMon, 05 Mar 2012 17:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Street Fighter X Tekken out on Vita this fall with 12 more characters]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/street-fighter-x-tekken-out-on-vita-this-fall-with-12-more-chara/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/street-fighter-x-tekken-out-on-vita-this-fall-with-12-more-chara/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/street-fighter-x-tekken-out-on-vita-this-fall-with-12-more-chara/#comments The Vita version of Street Fighter X Tekken will be the most populous of all. In addition to the PS3/Vita-exclusive Pac-Man, Mega Man, Cole, Toro, and Kuro, Capcom announced twelve extra characters on Vita as part of its Street Fighter 25th Anniversary celebration. The portable fighter will have exclusive access to Street Fighter's Elena, Guy, Cody, Sakura, Dudley and Blanka, and Tekken's Alisa, Christie, Jack, Brian, Lars and Lei.

There may yet be time for these new fighters to show up in the console game: Capcom said that the Vita version would be released in the fall. That gives the publisher plenty of time to release the characters as console DLC. In any case, where's our tiny arcade stick?

Continue reading Street Fighter X Tekken out on Vita this fall with 12 more characters

JoystiqStreet Fighter X Tekken out on Vita this fall with 12 more characters originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomplaystationplaystation-vitaq3-2012release-datestreet-fighter-x-tekkenvitaTue, 21 Feb 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Spec Ops: The Line drawn into retail on June 26]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/spec-ops-the-line-strategically-moving-into-retail-on-june-26/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/spec-ops-the-line-strategically-moving-into-retail-on-june-26/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/spec-ops-the-line-strategically-moving-into-retail-on-june-26/#comments
Spec Ops: The Line has been pushed back and previewed across several years, but now we finally know it'll cross the finish line come June 26. Take-Two revealed as much this morning in a PR missive which also detailed the "Premium Edition" of the third-person shooter. It will feature a variety of multiplayer bonus content to folks who pre-order the game from "participating retailers" (none are listed, but we're thinking places like GameStop and Amazon are fair bets).

Perhaps "Premium Edition" doesn't sound militaristic enough for you? Thankfully, Take-Two totally thought of that, which is why part the premium edition gives access to the "FUBAR pack," containing various multiplayer customization options ("unique and visually distinct items). Additionally, premium content includes an AK-47 unlock and an Officer Class promotion (which confers "several team-based advantages") at rank one, as well as double XP for the first week of online play.

2K Games producer Denby Grace openly calls out the unbalance in this pre-order scheme, saying "People who pre-order the game are going to have an immediate advantage in the multiplayer mode." G ... great?

JoystiqSpec Ops: The Line drawn into retail on June 26 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesdenby-gracemicrosoftpcplaystationps3q3-2012release-dateSpec-Ops-the-Linetake-two-interactivexboxyageryager-developmentTue, 21 Feb 2012 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[FarCry 3 coming September 6 (in Europe) according to German trailer [update: now in English!]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/farcry-3-coming-september-6-in-europe-according-to-german-trai/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/farcry-3-coming-september-6-in-europe-according-to-german-trai/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/farcry-3-coming-september-6-in-europe-according-to-german-trai/#comments
Are you ready to wub wub wub with Jason Brody as he murders dozens (hundreds?) of island natives after ending up in the wrong place at the wrong time during the events of Far Cry 3? Oh, not ready yet? Well that's good, actually, as the game won't be available until September 6 in Europe (September 4 for North Americans) according to a new, dubstep-heavy trailer for the game leaked out of Germany via All Games Beta.

The game had previously been pegged with an extremely vague "2012" launch window, but the trailer -- which popped up before a planned Ubisoft quarterly financial call later today -- pins September 6 to the game and, unsurprisingly, suggests we get pre-ordering.

In other news, we're feeling way, way less sorry for Far Cry 3 protagonist Jason Brody after watching this latest trailer. It's never a good idea to go exploring unmapped islands, not to mention ones where you almost immediately find automatic weapons just sitting around. Use your brain, Brody!

Update: Ubisoft had the leaked trailer removed from YouTube, but we snagged a pic of the release date splash screen before it got removed. Sorry, y'all! We've reached out to Ubi for more info on the trailer and the game's worldwide release dates.

Update 2: The US version of the trailer is now live, once more confirming the release date of September 4 in North America and September 6 in Europe.

JoystiqFarCry 3 coming September 6 (in Europe) according to German trailer [update: now in English!] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 07:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>far-cry-3microsoftpcplaystationps3q3-2012release-dateubisoftxboxWed, 15 Feb 2012 07:45:00 EST