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[Class of Heroes 2 available on PSN June 4]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/class-of-heroes-2-in-session-on-psn-june-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/class-of-heroes-2-in-session-on-psn-june-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/class-of-heroes-2-in-session-on-psn-june-4/#commentsClass of Heroes 2 PSN June 4 Class of Heroes 2, MonkeyPaw's PSP game from 2009, is finally coming to North America on June 4. PSN users can snag the fully localized JRPG dungeon crawler - which is playable on both PSP and PS Vita - for $25 from the PSN store.

The effort to localize Class of Heroes 2 began in 2012 with a Kickstarter campaign seeking $500,000 in funding. Ultimately, only $96,951 was raised, though MonkeyPaw CEO John Greiner wasn't too down in a follow-up interview with Joystiq.

Greiner said that even though the Kickstarter campaign failed, "we were able to educate people about the game and its features. That will help immensely when we release the digital version."

Continue reading Class of Heroes 2 available on PSN June 4

JoystiqClass of Heroes 2 available on PSN June 4 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 May 2013 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>class-of-heroes-2gaijinworksJRPGMonkeyPaw-Gamesplaystationplaystation-vitapsnpsprelease-datesonyvitaFri, 24 May 2013 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Witness shares some gameplay secrets in developer video, post]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/the-witness-shares-some-gameplay-secrets-in-developer-video-pos/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/the-witness-shares-some-gameplay-secrets-in-developer-video-pos/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/the-witness-shares-some-gameplay-secrets-in-developer-video-pos/#comments

Since announcing The Witness is on its way to Sony's PS4, Jonathan Blow and his development team have remained mostly mum about development. The game is still coming along, with Blow refining all of the details before the game launches, he explains on the PlayStation Blog in a video and a written post.

Video-Blow says The Witness is a true, financially independent game: His studio has the freedom to not make a profit, since it's not beholden to a publisher and doesn't "need" to. This shifts his team's goals from money to quality, he says.

"I would definitely like to make our money back on this game and I would like to make a profit on it, but it's not actually the No. 1 priority," Blow says. "The No. 1 priority is to make the best possible game that we can make, that brings the most beneficial experience to the players."

The Witness is an open-world, non-linear puzzle game that is as deep as the player wants it to be, as Blow describes it. It has no release date yet, but it's in development for PC and PS4, with the latter as a timed console exclusive.

JoystiqThe Witness shares some gameplay secrets in developer video, post originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 May 2013 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jonathan-blowpcplaystationps4SONYthe-witnessThu, 23 May 2013 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamestop Q1 sales and profits down, mobile/digital sales up]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/gamestop-q1-sales-and-profits-down-mobile-digital-sales-up/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/gamestop-q1-sales-and-profits-down-mobile-digital-sales-up/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/gamestop-q1-sales-and-profits-down-mobile-digital-sales-up/#comments Gamestop's financial data for the first quarter of its fiscal 2013 have arrived like a pizza with nearly 25 percent fewer toppings than the pizza you ordered during the same 13-week period last year. Also, cheesy bread sales are way up? This may not be the strongest analogy.

In non-allegorical terms, gross revenue (overall sales) and net income (post-tax profit) were both down year-over-year, at $1.865 billion and $54.6 million, respectively. As far as net income, that's a 24.69 percent decrease from the $72.5 million Gamestop reported at the end of Q1 2012.

Meanwhile, mobile device sales were up 290 percent, though this massive increase was largely due to the fact that Gamestop's mobile trade-in/sales program was just getting started during Q1 of 2012. Digital sales also increased, to the tune of 47.3 percent year-over-year, while new software sales, both physical and digital, fell 3.8 percent.

As was the case during Q1 2012, used hardware and software sales accounted for the majority of Gamestop's pre-tax profit, with new hardware and software sales making up just 29.5 percent of the quarter's overall gross.

JoystiqGamestop Q1 sales and profits down, mobile/digital sales up originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 May 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20133dsandroiddsfinancialsfiscal-2013gamestopmicrosoftmobilenintendopcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3pspQ1sonyvitawiiwii-uxboxThu, 23 May 2013 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony considers splitting the company after proposed IPO]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/sony-considers-splitting-the-company-after-proposed-ipo/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/sony-considers-splitting-the-company-after-proposed-ipo/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/sony-considers-splitting-the-company-after-proposed-ipo/#commentsSony considering splitting entertainment and business divisions Sony executives are considering splitting the company's entertainment and electronics divisions, following billionaire Daniel Loeb's proposed initial public offering of its entertainment business. The entertainment arm includes all PlayStation properties, alongside Sony's film and music businesses.

Loeb, with Third Point LLC, owns a 6 percent stake in Sony worth $1.1 billion, and is Sony's biggest investor. Sony CEO Kazuo Hirai confirmed that the top brass is considering Loeb's offer, but didn't say when it would come to a decision, Bloomberg reports.

"It's only a start," Hirai said. "It's important that the board will discuss this and come to a decision that represents Sony's stance." Following Loeb's offer yesterday, Sony stock surged 9 percent.

JoystiqSony considers splitting the company after proposed IPO originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 May 2013 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>entertainmentipokazuo-hiraiplaystationplaystation-4playstation-vitaps3ps4pspsonyvitaThu, 23 May 2013 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Square Enix America CEO leaves, joins Amazon]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/report-square-enix-america-ceo-leaves-joins-amazon/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/report-square-enix-america-ceo-leaves-joins-amazon/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/report-square-enix-america-ceo-leaves-joins-amazon/#commentshit 1st Report Square Enix America president is out Square Enix America CEO Mike Fischer left the company this month and is now vice president of digital music and video for Amazon in Japan, Polygon reports. This follows news in April that Square Enix America eliminated "a number of positions" and Fischer was expected to leave in May. Those same reports said the head of marketing should be gone after E3, along with other employees in public relations.

In March, Square Enix President Yoichi Wada stepped down and the company announced widespread restructuring that it expected to cost $106 million. Square Enix posted a net loss of $134 million for fiscal year 2013, citing "weak" sales of major console games, including Sleeping Dogs, Hitman: Absolution and Tomb Raider, the last of which sold 3.4 million in its first month.

JoystiqReport: Square Enix America CEO leaves, joins Amazon originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 May 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dslay-offslayoffsmicrosoftmobilenintendopcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3pspsonySquare-Enixvitawiiwii-uxboxThu, 23 May 2013 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox One, PS4 game box art appears on Battlefield 4 site]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/xbox-one-game-box-art-appears-on-battlefield-4-site/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/xbox-one-game-box-art-appears-on-battlefield-4-site/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/xbox-one-game-box-art-appears-on-battlefield-4-site/#commentsXbox One, PS4 game box art appears on Battlefield 4 site Are these the designs for Xbox One and PS4 game covers? The images come via the official Battlefield 4 site, where they're pictured prominently on a couple of pages. They may just be EA mock-ups - no other companies, including Microsoft and Sony, have released any images - but maybe they are the real deal. We reckon they look elegantly crisp.

JoystiqXbox One, PS4 game box art appears on Battlefield 4 site originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-4box-artEAmicrosoftplaystationps4sonyxboxxbox-onexbox-revealWed, 22 May 2013 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox One and PlayStation 4 specs compared]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/xbox-one-and-playstation-4-specs-compared/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/xbox-one-and-playstation-4-specs-compared/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/xbox-one-and-playstation-4-specs-compared/#commentsXbox One and PlayStation 4 specs compared Microsoft today announced the next generation of Xbox technology, called the Xbox One. Sony previously announced the PlayStation 4 back on February 20, so we now have a full look at just what both next-generation HD boxes will contain.

After the break, we've assembled a chart comparing the two consoles and their various components. The two machines are surprisingly similar, with both using an eight core CPU, the same amount of RAM, and both containing a combo Blu-Ray and DVD drive. But there are some major differences, too: Microsoft has created its own chip for the Xbox One, and the PlayStation 4 controller contains that share button and the clickable touchpad. Prices for both units haven't been announced yet, but both will be available later on this year.

Continue reading Xbox One and PlayStation 4 specs compared

JoystiqXbox One and PlayStation 4 specs compared originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 May 2013 14:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chipconsolescpugpuhardware-specificationshdkinectmicrosoftnext-genplaystationplaystation-4playstation-revealps3sonyspecstablexboxxbox-onexbox-revealTue, 21 May 2013 14:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Now Playing: May 20-26, 2013]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/now-playing-may-20-26-2013/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/now-playing-may-20-26-2013/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/now-playing-may-20-26-2013/#commentsNow Playing May 2026, 2013
Shoot up the old west this week with Call of Juarez: Gunslinger...

Choose your platform to jump to a specific release list:

Continue reading Now Playing: May 20-26, 2013

JoystiqNow Playing: May 20-26, 2013 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 May 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdskinectmacmicrosoftmovenintendonow-playingpcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3pspsonyvitawiiwii-uxboxMon, 20 May 2013 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ultimate Editions decimate PSN: DMC, AC3, Persona 4 Arena, 7 more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/ultimate-editions-decimate-psn-dmc-ac3-persona-4-arena-7-mor/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/ultimate-editions-decimate-psn-dmc-ac3-persona-4-arena-7-mor/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/ultimate-editions-decimate-psn-dmc-ac3-persona-4-arena-7-mor/#commentsUltimate Editions decimate PSN DMC, AC3, Persona 4 Arena, 7 more The latest round of PS3 Ultimate Edition bundles sure is decadent, offering 10 games and all of their DLCs discounted up to 65 percent for standard PSN members, and 75 percent for PS Plus members. The Ultimate Editions hit the PS Store tomorrow, May 21, and the sale lasts until May 27.

The new Ultimate Editions are Assassin's Creed 3, Batman: Arkham City, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3, DMC: Devil May Cry, Far Cry 3, Max Payne 3, Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance, Persona 4 Arena, Starhawk and Transformers: Fall of Cybertron.

Once the launch sale ends, each Ultimate Edition will still be available on for up to 40 percent off the standard game-and-DLC price, under the Ultimate Edition tab on the PS Store.

JoystiqUltimate Editions decimate PSN: DMC, AC3, Persona 4 Arena, 7 more originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 May 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DLCplaystationps3PSNSONYUltimate-EditionMon, 20 May 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PS4 E3 teaser video boxes it all up [Update: Close-up shots capped]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/ps4-e3-teaser-video-boxes-it-all-up/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/ps4-e3-teaser-video-boxes-it-all-up/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/ps4-e3-teaser-video-boxes-it-all-up/#comments

Sony's official E3 teaser video shows a blurry, black box. Is this the future of gaming, also known as Cube?

Sony's E3 conference takes place in Los Angeles on June 10 at 6 p.m. PT. Perhaps we'll get a clearer idea of what the PS4 looks like at that time, along with a price and release date. Right now we have "Holiday 2013," a timeframe that Sony settled on when it announced the PS4 in February.

Microsoft is prepping to reveal its own next-gen console - the new Xbox - tomorrow, May 21, at 10 a.m. PT. We'll have live coverage of that event.

Update: Joystiq reader rcoutant points us to an imgur album of the PS4 hardware in focus and really close-up, pulled right from the video.

JoystiqPS4 E3 teaser video boxes it all up [Update: Close-up shots capped] originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 May 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2013playstation-4ps4SONYMon, 20 May 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony's Panopticon countdown ends with mysterious trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/sonys-panopticon-countdown-ends-with-mysterious-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/sonys-panopticon-countdown-ends-with-mysterious-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/sonys-panopticon-countdown-ends-with-mysterious-trailer/#comments
The PlayStation Japan website just unveiled a trailer for what's apparently a new Japan Studio game, possibly called Panopticon going by the page name. The unveiling followed a week-long countdown, which was more like a count-up since the timer eventually ticked up to "1,000,000 years." It did just that at 6AM ET, with this trailer in its stead.

The trailer depicts a futuristic, totalitarian world where citizens are seemingly identified by virtually visualized ID numbers. There's no indication of any platforms or release date.

Earlier this year, it was spotted SCE Europe trademarked Panopticon. The word traces it roots to the Greek language, and means to "include everything visible in one view."

JoystiqSony's Panopticon countdown ends with mysterious trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 May 2013 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>japanpanopticonplaystationsonysony-computer-entertainment-japanThu, 16 May 2013 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony America trademarks 'Greatness Awaits,' points to PS4 slogan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/sony-america-trademarks-greatness-awaits-points-to-ps4-slogan/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/sony-america-trademarks-greatness-awaits-points-to-ps4-slogan/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/sony-america-trademarks-greatness-awaits-points-to-ps4-slogan/#commentsSony America trademarks 'Greatness Awaits,' points to PS4 slogan Sony's slogan for the PS4 may be "Greatness Awaits," based on a recent trademark and a purported ad leak. It's emerged Sony Computer Entertainment America trademarked the term last week, just ahead of next month's E3 conference. That on its own doesn't mean much, but it backs up Siliconera's prior report of a leaked script for a PS4 ad, with the term used as a slogan for the upcoming console.

The script, which Siliconera has in full, certainly resembles PlayStation's unique brand of surreal, high-octane advertising. It features a man walking down a road, talking at the camera and demanding the viewer not to be ordinary, afraid, or a slave to the past.

Around him buildings appear "increasingly damaged," and the scene grows more chaotic as windows break apart, two people covered in yellow paint sprint past him, and eventually a crowd of followers fall in line behind him. It even features a "homemade flag [sic] painted with the icon from Destiny" being unfurled out of a window, and a "giant spacecraft from Killzone" flying overhead.

The ad closes with the man saying, "Who are you to deny greatness? If you would deny it to yourself, you deny it to the entire world... And we will not be denied."

Then the words 'Greatness Awaits' appear on screen, followed or joined by 'PlayStation.'

We've reached out to Sony for comment.

JoystiqSony America trademarks 'Greatness Awaits,' points to PS4 slogan originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 May 2013 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>greatness-awaitsplaystationps4sonySony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericatrademarkWed, 15 May 2013 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony-published Dare to Fly outed by Australian Classification Board]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/sony-published-dare-to-fly-outed-by-australian-classification-bo/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/sony-published-dare-to-fly-outed-by-australian-classification-bo/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/sony-published-dare-to-fly-outed-by-australian-classification-bo/#commentsAustralian classification outs unannounced Sonypublished game Dare to Fly A recent ratings submission from the Australian Classification Board has revealed Dare to Fly, a previously unannounced console game that will apparently be published by Sony Computer Entertainment.

The classification points to console and mobile developer GameShastra as the game's creator. Though Dare to Fly does not appear on the company's website, GameShastra has released a handful of PlayStation 2 and PSP games in the past, and cites testimonials from Sony employees, indicating an existing relationship.

Interestingly, as PlayStation Lifestyle points out, Dare to Fly's unlockable trophy set has already been leaked, classifying the game as a downloadable title for the PlayStation 3. We've contacted GameShastra for clarification regarding Dare to Fly's upcoming release.

JoystiqSony-published Dare to Fly outed by Australian Classification Board originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 May 2013 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classificationdare-to-flygameshastraplaystationps3sonysony-computer-entertainmentWed, 15 May 2013 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSN Tuesday: Metro: Last Light, Dust 514, Jacob Jones]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/psn-tuesday-metro-last-light-dust-514-jacob-jones/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/psn-tuesday-metro-last-light-dust-514-jacob-jones/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/psn-tuesday-metro-last-light-dust-514-jacob-jones/#comments
It's quite the week for content on Sony platforms, with several major releases making their debut on the PlayStation Network today. Metro: Last Light, the 4A Games' sequel salvaged by Deep Silver, launches today. If you haven't had a chance to read our review yet, be sure to give that a gander.

It's joined by CCP's EVE Online offshoot (get it?) Dust 514, available free to all PSN users. Jacob Jones and the Bigfoot Mystery eases its way onto PS Vita today as a $3 download, while Rockstar makes good on its promised Manhunt for $10.

PlayStation Plus subscribers' freebie this week is Knytt Underground, which is flanked by discounts on both Metro: Last Light and a special pre-order price on Grid 2. For the full list of what's in this week's content dump, hit up the PS Blog through the source link below.

JoystiqPSN Tuesday: Metro: Last Light, Dust 514, Jacob Jones originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 May 2013 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4a-gamesccpcodemastersdust-514grid-2jacob-jones-and-the-bigfoot-mysterymanhuntmetro-last-lightplaystationplaystation-vitaps3psn-tuesdaypsprockstarsonyvitaTue, 14 May 2013 17:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: PS4 to hit Europe this year]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/rumor-ps4-to-hit-europe-this-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/rumor-ps4-to-hit-europe-this-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/rumor-ps4-to-hit-europe-this-year/#comments The PS4 won't be delayed into 2014 in Europe, according to a CVG source. "An insider involved with PlayStation's business strategy" told the site Sony is expecting Microsoft to more aggressively target Europe. The insider claims Sony, mindful of the Xbox 360's early arrival ahead of the PS3, will release the PS4 on the continent this year to maintain the region's affinity for PlayStation.

As CVG notes, Edge sources previously claimed the PS4 would be delayed in Europe until "early 2014." Sony has precedent here; the PS3 reached Europe in March 2007, having arrived in North America and Japan in November 2006. Europe was originally lined up for November 2006 too, but Sony delayed the PS3's arrival with two months to go.

At the PS4 reveal in February, Sony said the console was coming in "Holiday 2013," but refused to commit to which regions the window applied to. E3 would seem a good bet for Sony to get more specific about the PS4's arrival, especially depending on just how much Microsoft reveals next week.

JoystiqRumor: PS4 to hit Europe this year originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 May 2013 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europeplaystationsonyTue, 14 May 2013 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Now Playing: May 13-19, 2013]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/now-playing-may-13-19-2013/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/now-playing-may-13-19-2013/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/now-playing-may-13-19-2013/#commentsNow Playing May 1319, 2013
Head back underground this week with Metro: Last Light...

Choose your platform to jump to a specific release list:

Continue reading Now Playing: May 13-19, 2013

JoystiqNow Playing: May 13-19, 2013 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 May 2013 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdskinectmacmicrosoftmovenintendonow-playingpcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3pspsonyvitawiiwii-uxboxMon, 13 May 2013 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[PS Plus weekly: Knytt Underground free, Metro: Last Light on sale]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/playstation-plus-gets-free-knytt-underground-discounted-metro/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/playstation-plus-gets-free-knytt-underground-discounted-metro/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/playstation-plus-gets-free-knytt-underground-discounted-metro/#commentsPlayStation Plus gets free Knytt Underground, discounted Metro Last Light This week, PlayStation Plus members in North America can snag a free copy of Knytt Underground, along with a sizable discount for Metro: Last Light.

Knytt Underground, normally priced at $15, is an exploration-based 2D platformer in which players solve environmental puzzles by swapping between their default humanoid form and a bouncy "ball" shape that can access hard-to-reach areas. Knytt Underground is available as a Cross-Buy title, and is playable on both the PlayStation 3 and PS Vita.

4A Games' first-person shooter Metro: Last Light, due for release tomorrow, is available to PlayStation Plus members for $48, or $12 off of its retail price. Codemasters' motorsports title GRID 2 also gets a discount ahead of its launch later this month, and PlayStation Plus members can pre-order it this week for $54.

Other free titles coming to PlayStation Plus this month include Pinball Arcade, Germinator, and BlazBlue: Continuum Shift Extend.

JoystiqPS Plus weekly: Knytt Underground free, Metro: Last Light on sale originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 May 2013 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>grid-2knytt-undergroundmetro-last-lightplaystationplaystation-plusplaystation-vitapreorderps3sonyvitaMon, 13 May 2013 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: 'PS4 E3' video shows the console in the eyes of the beholder [Update: It's fake]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/rumor-ps4-e3-video-shows-the-console-in-the-eyes-of-the-behol/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/rumor-ps4-e3-video-shows-the-console-in-the-eyes-of-the-behol/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/rumor-ps4-e3-video-shows-the-console-in-the-eyes-of-the-behol/#comments

This could be the first glimpse of Sony's PlayStation 4 console and a look at the next generation of designer contact lens trends. This video contains the correct amount of blaring electronica for an E3 presentation, but we've reached out to Sony to clarify if it is, in fact, legitimate.

Sony announced the PS4 in February, but has yet to show off the console itself. Microsoft, Sony's next-gen competitor, is preparing to reveal its new Xbox on May 21.

Update: A Sony spokesperson tells Joystiq, "We don't comment on rumors or speculation." Other outlets have received confirmation that the ad is indeed fake. That doesn't mean it's not pretty.

JoystiqRumor: 'PS4 E3' video shows the console in the eyes of the beholder [Update: It's fake] originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 May 2013 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3e3-2013playstation-4ps4SONYMon, 13 May 2013 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Ken Kutaragi now External Director at Marvelous AQL]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/ken-kutaragi-now-external-director-at-marvelous-aql/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/ken-kutaragi-now-external-director-at-marvelous-aql/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/ken-kutaragi-now-external-director-at-marvelous-aql/#commentsKen Kutaragi now External Director at Marvelous AQL Former Sony Computer Entertainment chairman and CEO Ken Kutaragi has joined Marvelous AQL as an External Director, according to a Nikkei report. Kutaragi played a significant role in the PlayStation's formative years, and later headed up development of the PlayStation 2 and PS3. He retired from Sony in 2007, but remained as an advisor and SCEI's honorary chairman until 2011.

Marvelous AQL co-developed the recent PS Vita release Soul Sacrifice, and created 2012's 3DS farming sim Harvest Moon 3D: A New Beginning. Marvelous subsidiary Xseed recently purchased Atlus Online, rebranding itself as Marvelous USA earlier this month.

JoystiqKen Kutaragi now External Director at Marvelous AQL originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 10 May 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ken-kutaragimarvelous-aqlplaystationps3sonySony-Computer-EntertainmentxseedFri, 10 May 2013 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony, Microsoft going 'heavily' on free-to-play next-gen, says Epic VP Rein]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/sony-microsoft-going-heavily-on-free-to-play-next-gen-says-e/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/sony-microsoft-going-heavily-on-free-to-play-next-gen-says-e/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/sony-microsoft-going-heavily-on-free-to-play-next-gen-says-e/#comments Sony and Microsoft are telling developers they're "going heavily" on free-to-play and in-app purchasing models with their next-gen consoles, according to Epic Games VP Mark Rein. Speaking in a roundtable discussion at the UK's Game Horizon conference, Rein said both companies will take on the kinds of financial models seen on mobile devices.

"The next-gen consoles are going to be fully embracing the free-to-play and these IAP-type business models," Rein told the audience, "So in case you don't know that I'm putting that out there. Sony and Microsoft are both going heavily in that area."

Roundtable chair Matt Martin of GamesIndustry International said that's what both platform holders are saying, but that "we still need to see some kind of evidence."

Rein replied, "Well, I'm telling you. I'm telling you what they're telling developers."

Continue reading Sony, Microsoft going 'heavily' on free-to-play next-gen, says Epic VP Rein

JoystiqSony, Microsoft going 'heavily' on free-to-play next-gen, says Epic VP Rein originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 May 2013 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epic-gamesfree-to-playgame-horizon-2013mark-reinmicrosoftnext-xboxps4shuhei-yoshidasonyThu, 09 May 2013 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony posts $458M fiscal 2012 net profit, forecasts 5M portable sales in fiscal 2013]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/sony-posts-458m-fiscal-2012-net-profit-forecasts-5m-portable-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/sony-posts-458m-fiscal-2012-net-profit-forecasts-5m-portable-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/sony-posts-458m-fiscal-2012-net-profit-forecasts-5m-portable-s/#comments Sony had a net income for fiscal 2012 (ending March 31 2013) of ¥43 billion, which converts to $458 million. It's the first time the company's posted annual net profit since 2008. A far better situation than the company's $456.7 million loss last year.

As the company predicted following several cost-cutting measures across the previous year - including the sales of major buildings in Tokyo and New York, as well as thousands of layoffs - Sony posted an operating profit for the fiscal year, which came in at ¥230.1 billion ($2.45 billion).

Sony shifted 3.4 million PS3 and PS2 units across the last quarter, while the Vita and PSP came in at 1.3 million. Sony's fiscal year figures were in line with projections made last quarter, with the home consoles at 16.5 million and the portables at 7 million.

However, the portables' figures compare unfavorably with the company's initial estimate for the year, which was 16 million. Sony is being much more cautious for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2014, predicting only 5 million units in what's approximately the Vita's second year at retail. PS3 figures are estimated at 10 million, while Sony chose not to include PS4 projections.

The PlayStation division saw 12.2 percent year-on-year decline in sales, coming in at ¥707.1 billion ($7.52 billion). Operating income saw a much sharper drop, down 94.1 percent to ¥1.7 billion, or $18 million. Sony put the declines down to decreased hardware sales, as well as the "strategic price reduction" for the Vita in Japan earlier this year.

One area where growth is predicted is software, even without including the PS4. Sony projects an increase from the 266 million units sold in fiscal 2012 to 319 million (including digital units).

JoystiqSony posts $458M fiscal 2012 net profit, forecasts 5M portable sales in fiscal 2013 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 May 2013 06:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>financialsplaystationplaystation-vitaps2ps3pspsonyvitaThu, 09 May 2013 06:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Yoshida: Sony did not consider an always-on PS4]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/yoshida-sony-did-not-consider-an-always-on-ps4/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/yoshida-sony-did-not-consider-an-always-on-ps4/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/yoshida-sony-did-not-consider-an-always-on-ps4/#commentsSony never considered an alwayson PS4 The PS4 won't require an "always-on" internet connection, and it was never going to need one, Sony President of Worldwide Studios Shuhei Yoshida told Game Informer (via Gamespot).

"Did we consider it? No, we didn't consider it," Yoshida said. "The main reason being that many countries don't have robust Internet connections. It makes sense for people to have Internet connections to play online games, but for offline games there are many countries that we saw [that] do not really have robust Internet."

Fair point. Yoshida previously confirmed an offline mode in terms of the PS4's social and sharing features, saying, "Oh yes, yes, you can go offline totally. Social is big for us, but we understand there are some people who are anti-social. So if you don't want to connect to anyone else, you can do that." Developers, too, will be able to limit which aspects of their games players can share with the world.

Sony's major next-gen competitor, Microsoft, is set to reveal its new console on May 21. The latest internal memo regarding the next Xbox's online functionality says that some features should "just work" whether a player is on- or offline.

JoystiqYoshida: Sony did not consider an always-on PS4 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>always-onInternetnext-gennext-xboxplaystation-4ps4SONYxbox-nextWed, 08 May 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony to begin manufacturing PlayStation 3 units in Brazil]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/sony-to-begin-manufacturing-playstation-3-units-in-brazil/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/sony-to-begin-manufacturing-playstation-3-units-in-brazil/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/sony-to-begin-manufacturing-playstation-3-units-in-brazil/#commentsSony to begin manufacturing PlayStation 3 units in Brazil Sony has announced plans to build PlayStation 3 systems locally in Brazil. The consoles will be manufactured in Manaus by Sony Brasil Ltda., with the 250 GB version costing 1,099 Reals.

Major upcoming games The Last of Us and Grand Theft Auto 5 are getting localized releases in Brazilian Portuguese as well. A PlayStation 3 bundle featuring God of War: Ascension will hit stores in the region as part of the "Viva Em Estado Play" ("Living in a State of Play") marketing program in South America.

Sony says it's committed to investing in the local gaming development industry in Brazil, and Sony President Andrew House claims the manufacturing setup will "infuse the Brazilian economy with approximately $300 million over the next 12 months." As one more gesture of goodwill, the first ten consoles manufactured in Brazil will be given away to local gamers.

Continue reading Sony to begin manufacturing PlayStation 3 units in Brazil

JoystiqSony to begin manufacturing PlayStation 3 units in Brazil originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 May 2013 21:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brasilbrazilbusinessconsolesforca-brazilgrand-theft-auto-5industrylocalizationlocalizingmanufacturingmoneyplaystationportugeseps3sonythe-last-of-usTue, 07 May 2013 21:45:00 EST<![CDATA[PSN Tuesday: Sleeping Dogs free on PS Plus; Papo & Yo on sale]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/psn-tuesday-sleeping-dogs-free-on-ps-plus-papo-and-yo-on-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/psn-tuesday-sleeping-dogs-free-on-ps-plus-papo-and-yo-on-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/psn-tuesday-sleeping-dogs-free-on-ps-plus-papo-and-yo-on-sale/#comments United Front's open-world action game, Sleeping Dogs, is now available for free to PlayStation Plus members as part of Instant Game Collection.

Papo & Yo is available for $9 this week (or $12 if you want the soundtrack tossed in), while Retro City Rampage is down to $7.50. Fatal Frame 2 joins the PS2 Classics list, and a multiplayer demo for Fuse teases Insomniac's latest shooter before its launch later this month. Check the PlayStation Blog for the full list of new content.

JoystiqPSN Tuesday: Sleeping Dogs free on PS Plus; Papo & Yo on sale originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 May 2013 19:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fusepapo-and-yoplaystationplaystation-vitaps3psn-tuesdaypspretro-city-rampagesleeping-dogssonyvitaTue, 07 May 2013 19:35:00 EST<![CDATA[FIFA 13 sells 14.5 million in 2013, digital revenue up from FIFA 12]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/fifa-13-sells-14-5-million-in-2013-digital-revenue-up-from-fifa/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/fifa-13-sells-14-5-million-in-2013-digital-revenue-up-from-fifa/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/fifa-13-sells-14-5-million-in-2013-digital-revenue-up-from-fifa/#commentsFIFA 13 sells 145 million through 2013, net revenue up from FIFA 12 FIFA 13 sold through 14.5 million units in fiscal year 2013, up 30 percent compared with FIFA 12 sales from the prior year. Net revenue from digital sales hit $200 million in adjusted, non-GAAP terms, an increase of 94 percent compared with FIFA 12 year-over-year. The entire FIFA franchise generated $350 million in digital net revenue in FY 2013, including sales from FIFA Online and FIFA World Class Soccer.

By Q3 2013, which ended on December 31, 2012, FIFA 13 clocked a total of 12 million sales.

JoystiqFIFA 13 sells 14.5 million in 2013, digital revenue up from FIFA 12 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 May 2013 16:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EAfifa-13financialsfy-2013microsoftnintendopcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3pspsonyvitawiiwii-uxboxTue, 07 May 2013 16:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Now Playing: May 6-12, 2013]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/now-playing-may-6-12-2013/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/now-playing-may-6-12-2013/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/now-playing-may-6-12-2013/#commentsNow Playing May 612, 2013
Outwit time this week with the QUBE - Against the Qlock DLC...

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Continue reading Now Playing: May 6-12, 2013

JoystiqNow Playing: May 6-12, 2013 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 May 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdskinectmacmicrosoftmovenintendonow-playingpcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3pspsonyvitawiiwii-uxboxMon, 06 May 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GameStop confirms the end of PS2 trade-ins, still selling games and accessories]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/gamestop-confirms-the-end-of-ps2-trade-ins-still-selling-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/gamestop-confirms-the-end-of-ps2-trade-ins-still-selling-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/gamestop-confirms-the-end-of-ps2-trade-ins-still-selling-games/#comments GameStop's corporate office has confirmed yesterday's news that all US locations will stop accepting any PlayStation 2-related trade-ins. GameStop also clarified in a statement to Engadget that PS2 games, accessories and systems will still be sold at its stores for "several months" until the remaining stock runs out. GameStop's statement reads:

"We can confirm that as of June 1st we will no longer be accepting the PS2 console or its related product for trades. We know that the 12 year old system is a popular one and for many gamers, GameStop is the only place to find a great selection of its games. We will still offer a wide selection of the PS2 hardware, accessories and games in many of our stores and online for several months, based on remaining stock from trades. We are very excited about the upcoming PS4 and are making room in our stores for it and other new platforms expected this fall."

JoystiqGameStop confirms the end of PS2 trade-ins, still selling games and accessories originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 May 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamestopplaystation-2ps2ps4sonytrade-inMon, 06 May 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSN Tuesday: Far Cry 3: Blood Dragon, Soul Sacrifice]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/30/psn-tuesday-far-cry-3-blood-dragon-soul-sacrifice/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/30/psn-tuesday-far-cry-3-blood-dragon-soul-sacrifice/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/30/psn-tuesday-far-cry-3-blood-dragon-soul-sacrifice/#comments
Far Cry 3: Blood Dragon lights up this week's hefty PlayStation content dump, available as a PS3 download alongside Poker Night 2, Deadly Premonition: Director's Cut, Zombie Tycoon 2 (PS Vita cross-buy; free on PS Plus) and Ninja Sigma 2. On the PS Vita side, Keiji Inafune's Soul Sacrifice sets out for role-playing adventure.

This week concludes the Spring Fever sale on PSN, highlighting games featured in Sony's mascot brawler, PlayStation All-Stars: Battle Royale. Deals on BioShock, Metal Gear, Ratchet & Clank and many more are up for grabs. The full list is available over on the PlayStation Blog.

JoystiqPSN Tuesday: Far Cry 3: Blood Dragon, Soul Sacrifice originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 30 Apr 2013 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>far-cry-3-blood-dragonplaystationplaystation-vitaps3pspsonysoul-sacrificespring-fevervitaTue, 30 Apr 2013 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Class of Heroes 2 physical/digital combo pack now up for preorder]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/class-of-heroes-2-physical-digital-combo-pack-now-up-for-preorde/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/class-of-heroes-2-physical-digital-combo-pack-now-up-for-preorde/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/class-of-heroes-2-physical-digital-combo-pack-now-up-for-preorde/#comments Class of Heroes 2 physicaldigital combo pack now up for preorderGaijinworks is gearing up to launch a localized version of Acquire's PSP dungeon-crawling RPG Class of Heroes 2, and has opened preorders for a physical UMD edition that also includes a downloadable copy of the game.

For $36.99, buyers will receive a digital voucher for Class of Heroes 2 once it hits the PlayStation Network next month. A boxed physical version will be shipped to preorder customers an estimated 4-8 weeks after preorders close on May 8th.

Published in partnership with MonkeyPaw Games, Class of Heroes 2 is a first-person, Wizardry-like dungeon crawler with a focus on character customization. A Kickstarter project for a proposed deluxe edition didn't reach its funding goal, but a limited physical release entered production after meeting with a positive fan response.

"[Class of Heroes 2 is] not out of QA yet, but I'd imagine it should be up on PSN about the 3rd week in May, and the physical a few weeks after that," Gaijinworks founder Victor Ireland notes. "The QA is really just a formality because all that changed was a couple lines of text cleaned up and the opening removed until the rights situation is cleared."

Class of Heroes 2 was originally released in Japan in 2009. Since then, a number of sequel titles have debuted for platforms including the PlayStation 3 and Nintendo 3DS. To date, only the first PSP entry in the series has seen a North American release.

JoystiqClass of Heroes 2 physical/digital combo pack now up for preorder originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Apr 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>class-of-heroes-2kickstartermonkeypaw-gamesplaystationplaystation-vitapre-orderpsnpspsonyvitaMon, 29 Apr 2013 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Now Playing: April 29 - May 5, 2013]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/now-playing-april-29-may-5-2013/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/now-playing-april-29-may-5-2013/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/now-playing-april-29-may-5-2013/#comments Now Playing April 29 May 5, 2013
Head back to the 80s and see 2007 as the future this week with Far Cry 3: Blood Dragon...

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Continue reading Now Playing: April 29 - May 5, 2013

JoystiqNow Playing: April 29 - May 5, 2013 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Apr 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dskinectmacmicrosoftmovenintendonow-playingpcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3pspsonyvitawiiwii-uxboxMon, 29 Apr 2013 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Zombie Tycoon 2 free on PS Plus this week; BioShocks, Metal Gears, God of Wars on sale]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/zombie-tycoon-2-free-on-ps-plus-this-week-bioshocks-metal-gear/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/zombie-tycoon-2-free-on-ps-plus-this-week-bioshocks-metal-gear/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/zombie-tycoon-2-free-on-ps-plus-this-week-bioshocks-metal-gear/#comments PS Plus madness Zombie Tycoon 2 free, AllStars for $20This week's free PS Plus game is Zombie Tycoon 2, launching tomorrow as a PSN download on PS3 and PS Vita. Zombie Tycoon 2 is the sequel to Frima Studios' real-time strategy game pitting two mad scientists against one another, each with an army of zombies at his beck and call, as they try to invade the town of Finkleville.

In addition to the free game, the usual discount trumpeting will take place tomorrow. Spring Fever concludes with arguably its best week yet, offering up discounts themed around PlayStation All-Stars ($20 for PS Plus members) and its featured combatants. Many notable series are on sale, including entries in Metal Gear, Sly Cooper, BioShock, LittleBigPlanet, Devil May Cry, God of War, Infamous, Ratchet & Clank and Twisted Metal. The full list is available over on the PlayStation Blog.

JoystiqZombie Tycoon 2 free on PS Plus this week; BioShocks, Metal Gears, God of Wars on sale originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Apr 2013 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bioshockdevil-may-crygod-of-warinfamouslittlebigplanetmetal-gearplaystationplaystation-all-stars-battle-royaleplaystation-plusplaystation-vitaps-plusps3pspratchet-and-clanksly-coopersonyspring-fevertwisted-metalvitazombie-tycoon-2Mon, 29 Apr 2013 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PSN web store enables queue downloads upon PS3 startup]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/psn-web-store-enables-queue-downloads-upon-ps3-startup/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/psn-web-store-enables-queue-downloads-upon-ps3-startup/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/psn-web-store-enables-queue-downloads-upon-ps3-startup/#comments PSN web store enables queue downloads upon PS3 startupThe web-based Sony Entertainment Network store has enabled automatic downloads of PlayStation 3 content. Items in your store queue will begin downloading once you turn on your console, either via Remote Play or a gentle caress of the power button. The process takes a few minutes to kick in after boot-up, according to PSN Stores.

Before this addition, games and other content purchased through the web store had to be manually retrieved from the PS3's download list.

JoystiqPSN web store enables queue downloads upon PS3 startup originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Apr 2013 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstationplaystation-networkplaystation-vitaps3psnpsn-storepspsonyvitaThu, 25 Apr 2013 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Stealth Bastard gets a new name: Stealth Inc - A Clone in the Dark]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/stealth-bastard-gets-a-new-name-stealth-inc-a-clone-in-the-da/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/stealth-bastard-gets-a-new-name-stealth-inc-a-clone-in-the-da/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/stealth-bastard-gets-a-new-name-stealth-inc-a-clone-in-the-da/#comments Stealth Bastard renamed 'Stealth Inc A Clone in the Dark'Stealth Bastard, Curve Studios' sneaky puzzle platformer, has cleaned up its act and now sports a new name, as suggested by two fans: Stealth Inc - A Clone in the Dark. Curve held a contest to rename Stealth Bastard ahead of its launch on PS3 and Vita, promising the winner a Vita, a copy of the game and his name in the credits. Curve ended up picking two names and mashing them together, giving each person the grand prize.

"I'd like to express my gratitude to all 3,500+ of you that entered (yes, even those of you who submitted the perverted Stealth Orgasm, the outlandish Ze goggles! Zey do something! and the more classy El Chappo Stealtho)," Curve Lead Designer Sam Robinson writes. "They were all worthy titles, but there could be only one... well, two!"

RIP Stealth Bastard, and long live Stealth Inc - A Clone in the Dark, coming to Vita and PS3 this summer.

JoystiqStealth Bastard gets a new name: Stealth Inc - A Clone in the Dark originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Apr 2013 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>curve-studiosplaystationplaystation-vitaps3SONYstealth-bastard-deluxestealth-incstealth-inc-a-clone-in-the-darkvitaThu, 25 Apr 2013 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PSN Tuesday: Dead Island Riptide, Star Trek, Thomas Was Alone]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/23/psn-tuesday-dead-island-riptide-star-trek-thomas-was-alone/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/23/psn-tuesday-dead-island-riptide-star-trek-thomas-was-alone/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/23/psn-tuesday-dead-island-riptide-star-trek-thomas-was-alone/#comments PSN Tuesday Dead Island Riptide, Star Trek, Thomas Was AloneThe PlayStation Store update this week includes four full games, two new for PSN and three Vita games. The full games are Star Trek, SoulCalibur 5, Dead Island Riptide and Blazing Angels 2: Secret Missions of WWII, while PSN gets God Mode and Thomas Was Alone.

Thomas Was Alone is a Cross Buy game, making it available on Vita today as well, along with Draw Slasher and Guilty Gear XX Accent Core Plus R.

Fire Pro Wrestling Returns is out as a PS2 Classic and PSP gets Black Rock Shooter The Game. The Spring Sale is still on, with discounts on Resident Evil 6 and Thomas Was Alone this week.

JoystiqPSN Tuesday: Dead Island Riptide, Star Trek, Thomas Was Alone originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Apr 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blazing-angels-2dead-island-riptideplaystationplaystation-vitaps3PSNpsn-tuesdaypspsonysoulcalibur-5Star-Trekthomas-was-alonevitaTue, 23 Apr 2013 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Exclusive launches are sometimes necessary, Papo & Yo creator says]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/22/exclusive-launches-are-sometimes-necessary-papo-and-yo-creator-sa/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/22/exclusive-launches-are-sometimes-necessary-papo-and-yo-creator-sa/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/22/exclusive-launches-are-sometimes-necessary-papo-and-yo-creator-sa/#comments Papo & Yo creator Exclusive launches 'can be good'Papo & Yo cost developer Minority Media $1.5 million to make, and its exclusive release on PS3 in 2012 earned back some of that cost. It came to Steam last week, and during GDC creator Vander Caballero told us the PC launch should "cover the whole cost of the game." If it weren't for Sony and that exclusive PS3 launch, however, Papo & Yo may have never seen the light of day.

"If you are an independent you have zero marketing money," Caballero told Kotaku. "You have nothing. Then you need someone to support your project. So, if someone asks you for exclusivity and it's going to help you to bring out your product into the market, I think that can be good. Sometime, I think it's the only way to get something out."

Caballero's next game with Minority is Silent Enemy, an exploration and puzzle game set in a harsh, mystical Canadian tundra, but with a message about bullying. Minority doesn't have any platforms locked down for Silent Enemy just yet, but Caballero is considering PS4, PC, tablets and Ouya.

JoystiqExclusive launches are sometimes necessary, Papo & Yo creator says originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 22 Apr 2013 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>exclusiveExclusivityminorityminority-mediapapo-and-yoplaystationps3PSNsilent-enemySONYSTEAMMon, 22 Apr 2013 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Now Playing: April 22-28, 2013]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/22/now-playing-april-22-28-2013/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/22/now-playing-april-22-28-2013/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/22/now-playing-april-22-28-2013/#comments Now Playing April 2228, 2013
Fun, sun and the undead await you this week in Dead Island: Riptide...

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Continue reading Now Playing: April 22-28, 2013

JoystiqNow Playing: April 22-28, 2013 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 22 Apr 2013 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdskinectmacmicrosoftmovenintendonow-playingpcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3pspsonyvitawiiwii-uxboxMon, 22 Apr 2013 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Soul Calibur Broken Destiny free on PS Plus tomorrow, Spring Fever sale continues]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/22/soul-calibur-broken-destiny-free-on-ps-plus-tomorrow-spring-fev/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/22/soul-calibur-broken-destiny-free-on-ps-plus-tomorrow-spring-fev/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/22/soul-calibur-broken-destiny-free-on-ps-plus-tomorrow-spring-fev/#comments PlayStation Plus subscribers can snag a free copy of PSP (and PS Vita-compatible) fighter Soul Calibur Broken Destiny tomorrow when the PlayStation Store update drops. Soul Calibur Broken Destiny launched on PSP in 2009 with a feature set largely similar to its console predecessor from 2008, Soul Calibur IV.

Curve Studios' port of Mike Bithell's BAFTA-nominated puzzle-platformer Thomas Was Alone makes its debut on PS Vita and PS3 this week. The cross-buy enabled game takes place within a computer mainframe, tasking players with escorting erratic AI entities to their destinations.

Finally, PSN's Spring Fever sale continues unabated, slashing prices across the entire Resident Evil series this week. Highlights include Resident Evil: Director's Cut for $5, Resident Evil 6 for $21 and Resident Evil 4 at $14.

JoystiqSoul Calibur Broken Destiny free on PS Plus tomorrow, Spring Fever sale continues originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 22 Apr 2013 17:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>namco-bandaiplaystationplaystation-plusplaystation-vitaps3psnpspsonysoul-calibursoul-calibur-broken-destinythomas-was-alonevitaMon, 22 Apr 2013 17:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavy Rain cost $52 million but made $130 million, you do the math]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/21/heavy-rain-cost-52-million-but-made-130-million-you-do-the-ma/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/21/heavy-rain-cost-52-million-but-made-130-million-you-do-the-ma/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/21/heavy-rain-cost-52-million-but-made-130-million-you-do-the-ma/#comments Heavy Rain cost $52 million but made $130 million, you do the mathHeavy Rain cost developer Quantic Dream $21.8 million to make, and with Sony's marketing budget added in, production costs topped out at $52.2 million (based on a mid-range euro-dollar exchange rate of $1.31), Quantic CEO Guillaume de Fondaumiere tells Eurogamer. It was worth it in the end - Heavy Rain made Sony more than $130.6 million.

"It's very profitable," Fondaumiere says. Since there seems to be a wide discrepancy between the definition of "successful" in AAA and smaller games, it's always good to know that yes, more than $100 million is still "profitable" to some developers.

JoystiqHeavy Rain cost $52 million but made $130 million, you do the math originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 21 Apr 2013 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>costdevelopmentHeavy-Rainplaystationproduction-costps3quantic-dreamSONYSun, 21 Apr 2013 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jak and Daxter Collection hops over to Vita in June]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/19/jak-and-daxter-trilogy-hops-over-to-vita-in-june/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/19/jak-and-daxter-trilogy-hops-over-to-vita-in-june/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/19/jak-and-daxter-trilogy-hops-over-to-vita-in-june/#comments
The Jak and Daxter Collection released for PS3 last year is coming to the Vita in North America and Europe in June. There's no set date yet for the remastered compilation, which comprises Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy, Jak II, and Jak 3, but Sony did announce prices of $29.99 and €29.99.

While it's not clear how much difference there'll be between the versions, Sony revealed the HD collection has its own trophy list on the porbable, separate to the PS3 version.

JoystiqJak and Daxter Collection hops over to Vita in June originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Apr 2013 07:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jak-and-daxter-collectionnaughty-dogplaystationplaystation-vitarelease-datesonyvitaFri, 19 Apr 2013 07:20:00 EST<![CDATA[March NPD: BioShock Infinite rises to the top, Tomb Raider in second]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/march-npd-bioshock-infinite-rises-to-the-top-tomb-raider-in-se/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/march-npd-bioshock-infinite-rises-to-the-top-tomb-raider-in-se/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/march-npd-bioshock-infinite-rises-to-the-top-tomb-raider-in-se/#comments The sales-tracking data hounds at NPD have released their figures for March 2013, which collectively place hardware sales down, physical software sales slightly up, and BioShock Infinite at the top of the best-selling pile.

The physical retail sales sector of the U.S. video game industry pulled in 10 percent less coin than it did during the same five-week period in 2012, amassing a total of $992.5 million between March 3 and April 6, 2013. Hardware sales took the biggest hit out of the three monitored retail sub-categories, bringing in a total of $221.6 million, a 32 percent year-over-year decrease. Microsoft's Xbox 360 claimed its 27th month as the best-selling console in America, selling 261,000 units, down 13.5 percent from last month.

Meanwhile, overall physical software sales (console, portable and PC games) outperformed March 2012 by two percent: $602.4 million in 2013, as compared with last a total of $592.2 million in sales last March.

BioShock Infinite took an immediate victory over the rest of the period's release calendar, with Tomb Raider and Gears of War: Judgment rounding out the podium lineup. Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon placed sixth overall; we learned yesterday it has sold 415,000 units. Though that figure's retail-to-digital ratio remains undefined, the "vast majority" of sales took place at retail, according to Nintendo's Scott Moffit.

As always, jump on through for the top 10 best-selling games of March, 2013.

Continue reading March NPD: BioShock Infinite rises to the top, Tomb Raider in second

JoystiqMarch NPD: BioShock Infinite rises to the top, Tomb Raider in second originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 18 Apr 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsfinancialsmarch-2013March-NPDmicrosoftnintendoNPDNPD-marchpcplaystationps3pspsalessales-figuressonywiiwii-uxboxThu, 18 Apr 2013 18:30:00 EST