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[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[ESRB rates 'Sly Collection' for Vita]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/20/esrb-rates-sly-collection-for-vita/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/20/esrb-rates-sly-collection-for-vita/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/20/esrb-rates-sly-collection-for-vita/#comments The Entertainment Software Ratings Board has issued an "E" classification to the PlayStation Vita version of The Sly Collection, which is interesting since that game hasn't been announced for that platform - insert dramatic musical sting here.

As is typically the case with these sorts of ESRB leaks, the rating summary gives very little pertinent information beyond the fact that the port exists, and that one of the games briefly shows a barrel marked "ale." We've reached out to Sony for more information and will update with any official word we receive. In the meantime, we're going to follow the ESRB's lead and see if anything in our fridge is also marked "ale."

JoystiqESRB rates 'Sly Collection' for Vita originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 20 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ESRBplaystationplaystation-vitasanzaru-gamesSCEASony-Computer-Entertainment-Americathe-sly-collectionvitaSat, 20 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[White Knight Chronicles 1 & 2 servers shutting down in June]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/21/white-knight-chronicles-1-and-2-servers-shutting-down-in-june/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/21/white-knight-chronicles-1-and-2-servers-shutting-down-in-june/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/21/white-knight-chronicles-1-and-2-servers-shutting-down-in-june/#comments Servers for both White Knight Chronicles and White Knight Chronicles 2 are being taken down on June 18. The WKC2 server shutdown was announced by D3 Publisher, while the WKC1 news came from Sony Computer Entertainment America.

The servers were shared by North American and European players, so while both announcements only specify North America, they likely affect Europe as well. Neither announcement specified reasons for the servers being terminated.

The servers in both of the Level-5 JRPGs allow players to go online and take part in co-operative missions and town-building. North Americans will have had access to WKC2's online play for just over 21 months when the servers close this summer.

JoystiqWhite Knight Chronicles 1 & 2 servers shutting down in June originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 21 Mar 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>level-5playstationps3sony-computer-entertainment-americaThu, 21 Mar 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Persona 2: Eternal Punishment isn't compatible with Vita, PSP, fix coming]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/27/persona-2-eternal-punishment-isnt-compatible-with-vita-psp-f/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/27/persona-2-eternal-punishment-isnt-compatible-with-vita-psp-f/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/27/persona-2-eternal-punishment-isnt-compatible-with-vita-psp-f/#comments Persona 2 Eternal Punishment doesn't work on PSP, Vita, fix comingNorth Americans waiting for a PSP-playable localization of Persona 2: Eternal Punishment are going to have to wait a little bit longer. The Atlus JRPG, which came out on PSN this week as a $9.99 PSone classic, can be downloaded onto PS3, but not as yet onto Vita or PSP.

Sony Computer Entertainment America says the game was intended to be compatible with Vita and PSP, and is now working on a fix to ensure it is. There's no exact ETA, although community manager Morgan Haro says "worst case scenario" is that it takes a few weeks.

JoystiqPersona 2: Eternal Punishment isn't compatible with Vita, PSP, fix coming originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Feb 2013 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atluspersona-2-eternal-punishmentplaystationplaystation-vitaps3pspsonysony-computer-entertainment-americavitaWed, 27 Feb 2013 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Persona 2: Eternal Punishment disciplines PSN this week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/25/persona-2-eternal-punishment-disciplines-psn-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/25/persona-2-eternal-punishment-disciplines-psn-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/25/persona-2-eternal-punishment-disciplines-psn-this-week/#comments Persona 2: Eternal Punishment is forever slapping the PlayStation Network's wrists as of this week. The game arrives on North America's PS Store tomorrow, February 26, after recently receiving ESRB ratings for PS3 and Vita. The PlayStation Blog didn't list a price.

It's unknown if Eternal Punishment is coming to other regions, although Europeans fans of the series can at least fall back on Persona 4 Golden, which came to the region last week.

JoystiqPersona 2: Eternal Punishment disciplines PSN this week originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Feb 2013 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atluspersona-2-eternal-punishmentplaystationplaystation-vitaps3sony-computer-entertainment-americavitaMon, 25 Feb 2013 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Sound Shapes DLC landing March 12]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/23/sound-shapes-dlc-landing-march-12/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/23/sound-shapes-dlc-landing-march-12/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/23/sound-shapes-dlc-landing-march-12/#comments Queasy Games has announced that a new bundle of Sound Shapes DLC has had its debut performance scheduled for Wednesday, March 12, and that said DLC will indeed be Cross-Buy enabled. It's sort of like when you buy a modern album on vinyl, but it also comes with a code for a digital copy.

Unfortunately, Queasy neglected to mention what the DLC actually is, and instead only revealed its release date, saying that more information will be forthcoming. Personally, we're hoping for an "all MIDI dog sounds" pack.

JoystiqSound Shapes DLC landing March 12 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 23 Feb 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DLCplaystationplaystation-vitaps3Queasy-GamesSCEASony-Computer-Entertainment-Americasound-shapesvitaSat, 23 Feb 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony patent would combat piracy by comparing load times]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/23/sony-patent-would-combat-piracy-by-comparing-load-times/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/23/sony-patent-would-combat-piracy-by-comparing-load-times/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/23/sony-patent-would-combat-piracy-by-comparing-load-times/#comments Sony files patent that would combat piracyA patent describing a "method for validating legitimate media products" attributed to Sony Computer Entertainment America surfaced earlier this week. Originally filed in August 2011, the patent elaborates on a process by a which a piece of media could be detected as legitimate (not pirated) by comparing two load times against a benchmark for the media.

As seen in the flow chart above, the patent also describes a secondary validation stage in which a serial number and "user identification information" are checked against "reliable data, such as that sourced from the manufacturer or developer of the media title." Examples of the user information could include account names, location, IP addresses, the speed of the user's connection and product license numbers.

The secondary validation cycle would account for load time errors due to hardware issues, but would also be skipped entirely if the first cycle (the load time benchmark comparisons) checks out. Whether the "load time" method for combating piracy is used in future hardware efforts by Sony is unknown.

JoystiqSony patent would combat piracy by comparing load times originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 23 Feb 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>load-timespatentpiracySCEASONYSony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericaSat, 23 Feb 2013 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Soul Sacrifice offers trailer with puny humans fighting not-so-puny beasts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/18/soul-sacrifice-offers-trailer-with-puny-humans-fighting-not-so-p/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/18/soul-sacrifice-offers-trailer-with-puny-humans-fighting-not-so-p/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/18/soul-sacrifice-offers-trailer-with-puny-humans-fighting-not-so-p/#comments
Keiji Inafune's Vita action-RPG, Soul Sacrifice, brings a mix of picturesque vistas, giant monsters, and epic combat with said monsters which rips those vistas into shreds. It arrives in North America on April 30, and in Europe on May 1.

JoystiqSoul Sacrifice offers trailer with puny humans fighting not-so-puny beasts originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Feb 2013 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comceptplaystationplaystation-vitaSony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericaSony-Computer-Entertainment-Europesoul-sacrificevitaMon, 18 Feb 2013 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Soul Sacrifice being given up to NA April 30, EU May 1]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/29/soul-sacrifice-being-given-up-to-na-april-30-eu-may-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/29/soul-sacrifice-being-given-up-to-na-april-30-eu-may-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/29/soul-sacrifice-being-given-up-to-na-april-30-eu-may-1/#comments Soul Sacrifice given up to NA April 30, EU May 1Keiji Inafune's Comcept is relinquishing Vita action-RPG Soul Sacrifice to North America on April 30, and to Europe the day after on May 1. It'll be in both stores and on PSN on its day of release. The game received its Japanese release date of March 7 last month.

Both regions get the same pre-order bonuses, such as the two character costumes and three magical aids for battle. Those aids are the Spirits' Flamepike, which spears a fiery five-hit combo attack, the Spirits' Blightstone, which stirs up a poisonous explosion, and Spirits' Fulgurwood, which can both track enemies and cast a thunder spell.

The most curious bonus is that of Japanese voice-overs. It's always great to have the option, but tying it to pre-orders is certainly unusual. If you're not gonna sacrifice your dosh for the pre-order, take note that the voice-over pack will be sold separately.

Gallery: Soul Sacrifice

JoystiqSoul Sacrifice being given up to NA April 30, EU May 1 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 Jan 2013 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comceptkeiji-inafuneplaystationplaystation-vitarelease-dateSCEASCEESony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericaSony-Computer-Entertainment-Europesoul-sacrificevitaTue, 29 Jan 2013 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PS All-Stars dev SuperBot lays off unknown number of employees]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/25/report-ps-all-stars-dev-superbot-hit-with-layoffs/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/25/report-ps-all-stars-dev-superbot-hit-with-layoffs/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/25/report-ps-all-stars-dev-superbot-hit-with-layoffs/#comments Superbot Entertainment, the Sony-owned developer responsible for PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale, has suffered layoffs today, IGN reports.

"SCEA can confirm that SuperBot Entertainment did make a reduction in their workforce today," a Sony representative told IGN. "The studio and SCEA remain committed to supporting PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale post launch, including developing the title's forthcoming DLC releases in the coming months."

Currently, the number of employees affected by the downsizing remains unknown, though we have reached out to both Sony and Superbot for more information about the situation and will update as details become available.

Update: Sony has confirmed to us that layoffs have indeed hit Superbot, though no further information was given. Its full statement on the matter can be found after the break.

Continue reading PS All-Stars dev SuperBot lays off unknown number of employees

JoystiqPS All-Stars dev SuperBot lays off unknown number of employees originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 Jan 2013 18:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>downsizinglayoffsplaystationplaystation-all-stars-battle-royaleplaystation-vitaps3SCEASony-Computer-Entertainment-Americasuperbotsuperbot-entertainmentvitaFri, 25 Jan 2013 18:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Kat, Emmett join PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale Feb. 12]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/18/kat-emmett-join-playstation-all-stars-battle-royale-feb-12/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/18/kat-emmett-join-playstation-all-stars-battle-royale-feb-12/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/18/kat-emmett-join-playstation-all-stars-battle-royale-feb-12/#comments
Gravity Rush's Kat and Starhawk's Emmett Graves will be joining the fray as PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale's first DLC characters on February 12, Sony has announced. Both characters will be free for their first two weeks of availability, though their price point after the fact remains unknown.

As we learned during their initial reveal last December, both characters make heavy usage of the abilities their own games are based on, with Kat (above) manipulating gravity and Emmett summoning mining equipment, as seen after the break. Both characters sport the same amenities as the original cast: extra costumes, full arcade stories and trial modes, etc.

The previously announced Heavenly Sword/Wipeout stage has also been slated for February, though a specific release date or price was not provided. We're still holding out for a ship from Wipeout as a playable character.

Continue reading Kat, Emmett join PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale Feb. 12

JoystiqKat, Emmett join PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale Feb. 12 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Jan 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>emmett-gravesgravity-rushkatplaystationplaystation-all-stars-battle-royaleplaystation-vitaps3release-dateSCEASony-Computer-Entertainment-Americastarhawksuperbot-entertainmentvitaFri, 18 Jan 2013 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Last of Us behind the scenes vid shows how mo-cap becomes final copy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/14/the-last-of-us-behind-the-scenes-vid-shows-how-mo-cap-becomes-fi/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/14/the-last-of-us-behind-the-scenes-vid-shows-how-mo-cap-becomes-fi/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/14/the-last-of-us-behind-the-scenes-vid-shows-how-mo-cap-becomes-fi/#comments
This video for Naughty Dog's The Last of Us introduces the Tess character, played by Annie Wersching (Renee Walker in 24). It also neatly shows off the effects of what's required to get from motion-capture to final animation, and those bauble-dotted mo-cap suits which are always fun.

Gallery: The Last of Us (12/14/12)

JoystiqThe Last of Us behind the scenes vid shows how mo-cap becomes final copy originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 Dec 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>motion-capturenaughty-dogplaystationps3sony-computer-entertainment-americathe-last-of-usFri, 14 Dec 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War: Ascension's multiplayer trailer is straight-up gross]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/12/god-of-war-ascensions-multiplayer-trailer-is-straight-up-gross/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/12/god-of-war-ascensions-multiplayer-trailer-is-straight-up-gross/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/12/god-of-war-ascensions-multiplayer-trailer-is-straight-up-gross/#comments
This God of War: Ascension multiplayer trailer and the ending of Apocalypse Now! have more in common than we'd generally like, except instead of a cow this has a beefy guy, and there's some Southern rock/railroad building blues playing in the background. Greece has a "South," right?

JoystiqGod of War: Ascension's multiplayer trailer is straight-up gross originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Dec 2012 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>god-of-war-ascensiongross-dudemultiplayerplaystationps3SCEASony-Computer-EntertainmentSony-Computer-Entertainment-Americasony-santa-monicaWed, 12 Dec 2012 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Last of Us pre-order bonuses detailed, trailer unveiled]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/10/the-last-of-us-pre-order-bonuses-detailed-trailer-unveiled/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/10/the-last-of-us-pre-order-bonuses-detailed-trailer-unveiled/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/10/the-last-of-us-pre-order-bonuses-detailed-trailer-unveiled/#comments
Naughty Dog revealed the pre-order bonuses for The Last of Us this weekend, hot on the trail of the new trailer from the VGAs, which you can watch above. As for the pre-orders, they're split into the stuff all participating retailers are offering and the additional in-game content GameStop is bundling in.

All participating pre-orders include the game's official soundtrack, a PS3 dynamic theme based on the box art, and 'Winter Joel' and 'Winter Ellie' PSN avatars. That sounds perfect for a game confirmed for late spring - May 7, 2013, to be specific.

Pre-order at GameStop and you'll also get multiplayer goodies on top of the soundtrack, theme, and avatars. Those goodies include bonus XP, a melee attack booster, customizable character items, bonus skins, and a bit of extra in-game cash to help you on your way. Naughty Dog confirmed earlier this year that multiplayer would be coming to The Last of Us, but not in the form of campaign co-op.

JoystiqThe Last of Us pre-order bonuses detailed, trailer unveiled originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Dec 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>naughty-dogplaystationps3SCEAsony-computer-entertainment-americathe-last-of-usvga-2012Mon, 10 Dec 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Page Chronica registers PSN release date of December 4]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/13/page-chronica-registers-psn-release-date-of-december-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/13/page-chronica-registers-psn-release-date-of-december-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/13/page-chronica-registers-psn-release-date-of-december-4/#comments Page Chronica registers PSN release date of December 4Red Hare Studios turns Page Chronica onto North America's PlayStation Network on December 4. The PS3 puzzle-platformer's producer, Dr. Wee Lit Koh, also tells us that although a date for the European release isn't set yet, it too is "just around the corner." The price tag is also unconfirmed, but Dr. Koh told us last month his studio is targeting $10.99/€10.99.

Page Chronica presents a curious mix of wordplay and platforming. By collecting and rearranging the letters spread across its dreamlike worlds, players can create enchanted words that grant them powerful attacks and magic. Edward Bulwer-Lytton once wrote the pen is mightier than the sword, and that's especially true if the pen magically grants you a big old mighty sword. Or if it's some kind of explosive pen gun.

JoystiqPage Chronica registers PSN release date of December 4 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Nov 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>page-chronicaplaystationps3PSNred-hare-studiosrelease-datesceasony-computer-entertainment-americaTue, 13 Nov 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wizards of the Coast sued over 'Electronic Trading Card' patent infringement]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/05/wizards-of-the-coast-sued-over-electronic-trading-card-patent/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/05/wizards-of-the-coast-sued-over-electronic-trading-card-patent/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/05/wizards-of-the-coast-sued-over-electronic-trading-card-patent/#comments Wizards of the Coast sued over 'Electronic Trading Card' patent infringementWizards of the Coast is being sued by Texas-based Wildcat Intellectual Property Holdings over an alleged patent infringement. Courthouse News reports Wildcat believes Wizards of the Coast's 2002 game Magic: The Gathering Online infringes upon the former's 'Electronic Trading Card' patent, and is seeking an injunction to prohibit the transgression.

The patent in question, US Patent No 6200216, was filed by Wildcat on March 6 1995 and issued on March 13 2001. It describes. among other components, "taking the traditional trading card metaphor and uniquely updating and enhancing it for application in consumer digital media." Wildcat claims the patent applies to its game 'Unit Commander' which it calls "the ultimate mercenary trading card game."

Wildcat's allegations seem to date back to a lawsuit filed last year against Wizards of the Coast and 11 other companies, including Nintendo, EA, Sony Computer Entertainment America, Sony Online Entertainment, Konami, and Zynga. The complaint pertains to the same patent infringement Wildcat is presently suing Wizards of the Coast over.

According to The Cardboard Connection, as of August 2 of this year Chaotic USA and Nintendo were dismissed without prejudice, leaving both open to being sued by Wildcat again separately. It's unclear if Wildcat's present case against Wizards of the Coast is a retooling of the previous one following a similar dismissal.

Continue reading Wizards of the Coast sued over 'Electronic Trading Card' patent infringement

JoystiqWizards of the Coast sued over 'Electronic Trading Card' patent infringement originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Nov 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EAkonamilawsuitpatentpcSony-Computer-Entertainment-Americasony-online-entertainmentwildcatwizards-of-the-coastzyngaMon, 05 Nov 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[When Vikings Attack pillages PSN next week, 30% pre-order discount for EU PSN]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/03/when-vikings-attack-pillages-psn-next-week-30-pre-order-discou/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/03/when-vikings-attack-pillages-psn-next-week-30-pre-order-discou/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/03/when-vikings-attack-pillages-psn-next-week-30-pre-order-discou/#comments When Vikings Attack pillages PSN next week, 30% preorder discount for EU PSNVikings are set to invade 1970s England this Tuesday, November 6. When Vikings Attack, from new developer Clever Beans, launches for PS3 and Vita as a PSN cross-buy title. The game tasks players with corralling English villagers and uniting them against the invading viking hordes - the more villagers you've amassed, the bigger the items you can pick up and hurl.

Anyone who actually lives in England (or elsewhere connected to the European PlayStation Network) can shave 30 percent off the game's £7.99/€9.99 price by pre-ordering it now through the PS3's PSN Store. Shaving the beard off a viking, however, is considerably more difficult and not something we should ever have tried.

JoystiqWhen Vikings Attack pillages PSN next week, 30% pre-order discount for EU PSN originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 03 Nov 2012 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clever-beanscross-buyplaystationplaystation-vitaps3release-dateSCEASony-Computer-Entertainment-Americavitawhen-vikings-attackSat, 03 Nov 2012 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[This is madness: GameStop God of War: Ascension pre-order perk is '300' DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/24/this-is-madness-gamestop-god-of-war-ascension-pre-order-perk-i/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/24/this-is-madness-gamestop-god-of-war-ascension-pre-order-perk-i/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/24/this-is-madness-gamestop-god-of-war-ascension-pre-order-perk-i/#comments GameStop's God of War Ascension preorder bonus is '300' DLCGamestop's God of War: Ascension pre-order bonus is an exclusive multiplayer costume taken from Zack Snyder's 2007 movie 300, because nothing says "brand-new video game based on Greek pseudo-mythology" like a random costume from a five-year-old movie based on Greek pseudo-history.

Specifically, the costume replicates King Leonidas' red cape, helmet and "armor," which we assume is what they're calling his tiny little baby man-shorts. The costume also includes a spear that provides new moves and abilities, as well as a double-sided God of War: Ascension poster. It does not, however, include a pit for disposing of foreign dignitaries or a bottle of chest grease.

JoystiqThis is madness: GameStop God of War: Ascension pre-order perk is '300' DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Oct 2012 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>300gamestopgod-of-war-ascensionking-leonidasplaystationpre-orderpre-order-bonusps3SCEASony-Computer-Entertainment-Americasony-santa-monicaWed, 24 Oct 2012 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Summoning monsters as a plant-based wizard in Soul Sacrifice]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/02/summoning-monsters-as-a-plant-based-wizard-soul-sacrifice/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/02/summoning-monsters-as-a-plant-based-wizard-soul-sacrifice/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/02/summoning-monsters-as-a-plant-based-wizard-soul-sacrifice/#comments Soul Sacrifice, and the tale of the PlantomancerI'm still not clear what the actual name of the character I selected during my demo of Kenji Inafune's upcoming Vita game Soul Sacrifice was, nor was I able to grasp the more delicate workings of some of its deeper mechanics because the Tokyo Game Show demo I experienced was (surprise!) completely in Japanese. But I worked around it.

Though the context of the upcoming universe alluded me, the combat in Soul Sacrifice broke down language barriers ... because it spoke the universal language of kick ass.

Gallery: Soul Sacrifice

Continue reading Summoning monsters as a plant-based wizard in Soul Sacrifice

JoystiqSummoning monsters as a plant-based wizard in Soul Sacrifice originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Oct 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comcepthands-onKeiji-Inafuneplantomancyplaystationplaystation-vitaSCEASony-Computer-Entertainment-Americasoul-sacrificetgs-2012vitaTue, 02 Oct 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Meet LittleBigPlanet Karting's antagonists, 'The Hoard']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/08/meet-littlebigplanet-kartings-antagonists-the-hoard/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/08/meet-littlebigplanet-kartings-antagonists-the-hoard/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/08/meet-littlebigplanet-kartings-antagonists-the-hoard/#comments Meet LittleBigPlanet Karting's antagonists, 'The Hoard'Apparently, after the events of LittleBigPlanet 2, mysterious beings from far away lands arrived on Craftworld and began hoarding all of the world's most valuable treasures, with no other motivation than to be in possession of them. Somehow, this all translates to go-kart racing.

Continue reading Meet LittleBigPlanet Karting's antagonists, 'The Hoard'

JoystiqMeet LittleBigPlanet Karting's antagonists, 'The Hoard' originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 08 Sep 2012 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hoardlittlebigplanet-kartingplaystationps3SCEASony-Computer-Entertainment-Americathe-hoardunited-front-gamesSat, 08 Sep 2012 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[This Unfinished Swan story trailer is delightful]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/02/this-unfinished-swan-story-trailer-is-delightful/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/02/this-unfinished-swan-story-trailer-is-delightful/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/02/this-unfinished-swan-story-trailer-is-delightful/#comments
This trailer for The Unfinished Swan from PAX 2012 delves into the Sony-published, Giant Sparrow-developed game's mysterious plot. While no specific release date has been revealed for this PSN-exclusive game, the game's official site indicates it will launch some time in 2012.

JoystiqThis Unfinished Swan story trailer is delightful originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 02 Sep 2012 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>giant-sparrowPAXpax-2012playstationps3PSNSCEASONYSony-Computer-Entertainment-Americastorythe-unfinished-swantrailerSun, 02 Sep 2012 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[LittleBigPlanet Karting pre-orders at Gamestop include 'Headstart Pack,' exclusive Sackboy and kart]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/30/littlebigplanet-karting-pre-orders-at-gamestop-include-headstar/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/30/littlebigplanet-karting-pre-orders-at-gamestop-include-headstar/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/30/littlebigplanet-karting-pre-orders-at-gamestop-include-headstar/#comments LittleBigPlanet Karting Gamestop preorders include 'Headstart Pack,' exclusive Sackboy and kartWe caught wind a while ago that pre-ordering LittleBigPlanet Karting from Gamestop or Amazon would net you a sweet Kevin Butler Sackboy and golf-cart kart, but now Gamestop's pre-order offering has been upgraded with some extra chotchkies.

For starters, Gamestop pre-orders now come with an exclusive "Headstart Pack" that immediately unlocks 900-plus pieces of construction materials, costumes, karts and music that would normally have to be earned by, you know, playing the game. It also includes a United Front Games-themed Sackboy and accompanying arcade cabinet kart (as seen above), as well as the Kevin Butler stuff we already knew about.

JoystiqLittleBigPlanet Karting pre-orders at Gamestop include 'Headstart Pack,' exclusive Sackboy and kart originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Aug 2012 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamestoplittlebigplanet-kartingplaystationplaystation-vitapre-orderps3sceaSony-Computer-Entertainment-Americaunited-front-gamesThu, 30 Aug 2012 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War: Ascension Euro dates announced, along with Special / Collector's Editions]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/30/god-of-war-ascension-euro-dates-announced-along-with-special/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/30/god-of-war-ascension-euro-dates-announced-along-with-special/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/30/god-of-war-ascension-euro-dates-announced-along-with-special/#comments God of War: Ascension will be available on March 13, 14 or 15, depending on whether you plan on buying it in greater Europe, Australia/New Zealand, or the UK/Ireland, respectively. Meanwhile, North American folk can still expect to rain bloody death down upon their enemies on March 12.

Non-North American revenge aficionados looking for something a little more substantial than just the game itself will have both Special and Collector's editions to choose from, which each contain varying levels of goodies, both in-game and out. The Collector's Edition is identical to the North American version and includes a steelbook case, eight-inch Kratos figure, digital copy of the soundtrack, a PS3 theme and avatars, a double multiplayer XP boost and a voucher for all future DLC.

Special Edition, on the other hand, includes everything listed above except for the statuette and the DLC pass. No pricing information or pictures of the packs have been released as of yet, thought details are expected in the "near future," according to the European PlayStation Blog.

JoystiqGod of War: Ascension Euro dates announced, along with Special / Collector's Editions originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Aug 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>collectors-editionDLCeuropegod-of-war-ascensionplaystationps3release-dateSCEAseason-passSony-Computer-Entertainment-Americasony-santa-monicaspecial-editionThu, 30 Aug 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nariko and Fortesque confirmed for PlayStation All-Stars [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/30/nariko-and-fortesque-confirmed-for-playstation-all-stars/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/30/nariko-and-fortesque-confirmed-for-playstation-all-stars/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/30/nariko-and-fortesque-confirmed-for-playstation-all-stars/#comments Nariko and Fortesque confirmed for PlayStation AllStars
Two more characters have been announced as members of the PlayStation All-Stars: Battle Royale roster, both of which attach firmly to either side of the "deep cut" spectrum: Nariko of Heavenly Sword fame, and MediEvil's Sir Daniel Fortesque.

As has been the case with the last few All-Stars character reveals, both Nariko and Fortesque were originally rumored a few weeks ago when files pulled from the beta found their way to neoGAF. Nariko's fighting style is described as "high risk, high reward" by designer Seth Killian in the video above, while Fortesque is said to be much slower and more methodical. Both characters, however, use weapons culled from the annals of their respective series' history.

Update: The video originally embedded above, belonging to Gamespot, has been set to private. We have replaced the video with a mirror located here and have updated this post's source link to reflect that change.

JoystiqNariko and Fortesque confirmed for PlayStation All-Stars [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Aug 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fortesqueheavenly-swordmedievilnarikoplaystationplaystation-all-stars-battle-royaleps3SCEAsir-daniel-fortesqueSony-Computer-Entertainment-Americasuperbot-entertainmentThu, 30 Aug 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Take a look at the Journey: Collector's Edition mini-games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/28/take-a-look-at-the-journey-collectors-edition-mini-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/28/take-a-look-at-the-journey-collectors-edition-mini-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/28/take-a-look-at-the-journey-collectors-edition-mini-games/#comments Take a look at the Journey Collector's Edition minigames
Journey: Collector's Edition is out today. The collection bundles together thatgamecompany's Flow, Flower and, of course, Journey into a single package - but that's not all. It also includes three never-before-seen mini-games from internal "24hr Game Jams." We put together a short video showcasing all three of these new games: Gravediggers, Duke War and Nostril Shot.

If that isn't enough to entice you, know that there are cat ninjas at one point.

JoystiqTake a look at the Journey: Collector's Edition mini-games originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 28 Aug 2012 11:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>duke-wargravediggersjourneyjourney-collectors-editionnostril-shotplaystationps3sceasony-computer-entertainment-americasony-santa-monicaThatGameCompanyTue, 28 Aug 2012 11:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Sports Champions 2 is going for gold October 30]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/19/sports-champions-2-is-going-for-gold-october-30/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/19/sports-champions-2-is-going-for-gold-october-30/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/19/sports-champions-2-is-going-for-gold-october-30/#comments PlayStation Move-based sports minigame collection Sports Champions 2 is set to launch October 30, Sony revealed in a recent blog post. As the follow-up to the PS Move pack-in game, it will include a new archery minigame along with bowling, skiing, boxing, golf, and tennis.

Sports Champions 2's Party Mode also enables groups of players to set up multi-game tournaments. That sounds like fun for the whole family, except for the socially-awkward fella that took last place in the screen above.

Gallery: Sports Champions 2 (8/19/12)

JoystiqSports Champions 2 is going for gold October 30 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 19 Aug 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>moveplaystationps3SCEASony-Computer-Entertainment-Americasports-championssports-champions-2zindagi-gamesSun, 19 Aug 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Twisted Metal sold 'fine,' was 'not a dud,' says Jaffe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/01/twisted-metal-sold-fine-was-not-a-dud-says-jaffe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/01/twisted-metal-sold-fine-was-not-a-dud-says-jaffe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/01/twisted-metal-sold-fine-was-not-a-dud-says-jaffe/#comments Last year's Twisted Metal reboot "sold fine," says creative director David Jaffe. "Not a dud, not a hit," he adds. "It was not a mega blockbuster or even a big hit (was it even a 'hit'?...not sure what is in between 'dud' and 'hit' but I think TM PS3 falls into that category)." He stops short of offering any specific sales numbers, but notes, "I hope Sony will be satisfied that it made a decent investment in the game and in us."

It's unclear how large of a financial investment Sony made in the Twisted Metal reboot, but it apparently wasn't enough to keep Jaffe's Eat Sleep Play studio from facing cuts following the launch last year. Jaffe himself also left the company; he is now pursuing free-to-play games.

Jaffe also outlines eerily specific plans for another Twisted Metal franchise entry, saying it'd be digital-only and aggressively truncated. "But again, this is just me pie in the sky thinking out loud," he notes. "None of this is planned." Mmmmhmmmm, Mr. Jaffe. We've heard that song before.

JoystiqTwisted Metal sold 'fine,' was 'not a dud,' says Jaffe originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Aug 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>david-jaffeeat-sleep-playplaystationps3salessceasony-computer-entertainment-americasony-santa-monicatwisted-metal-2011twisted-metal-2012Wed, 01 Aug 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: PlayStation All-Stars characters and stages leak all over the place [Update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/29/rumor-playstation-all-stars-characters-and-stages-leak-all-over/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/29/rumor-playstation-all-stars-characters-and-stages-leak-all-over/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/29/rumor-playstation-all-stars-characters-and-stages-leak-all-over/#comments Rumor PlayStation AllStars characters and stages leak all over the placeA slew of images reportedly pulled from a private beta of PlayStation All-Stars: Battle Royale shows off many of the game's characters and stages. An original image posted by Reddit user 696Ly is a leak in the truest sense of the word, as the word "leak" is written all over the picture (seen here).

More visible images of 14 stages and 12 characters from the game were posted online by NeoGAF user miladesn. The images appear to be pulled from the game's stage and character select screens, including the BioShock Infinite-inspired "Columbia" stage seen above. We've reached out to Sony for confirmation.

Update: The files pulled from the beta version of the game and posted to the thread on NeoGAF indicate that some of the characters listed may be unlockable. Additionally, one file name lists an evil version of Cole McGrath from the inFamous series as playable, who is also shown in the leaked character images.

The characters in the leaked images are:
Based on the leaked file information, the following characters are also listed as playable:

JoystiqRumor: PlayStation All-Stars characters and stages leak all over the place [Update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 29 Jul 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstationPlayStation-All-Starsplaystation-all-stars-battle-royaleplaystation-vitaps-all-starsps3SCEASONYSony-Computer-Entertainment-Americasuperbotsuperbot-entertainmentvitaSun, 29 Jul 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Meet Bill, the grizzled elderly gentleman in The Last of Us]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/16/meet-bill-the-grizzled-elderly-gentleman-in-the-last-of-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/16/meet-bill-the-grizzled-elderly-gentleman-in-the-last-of-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/16/meet-bill-the-grizzled-elderly-gentleman-in-the-last-of-us/#comments Meet Bill, the grizzled elderly gentleman in The Last of Us
Bill's doing fine on his own ... then Ellie and Joel come busting through his boobytraps, calling on old favors for him to piece together a workable vehicle. Like so many characters we've seen in The Last of Us, Bill isn't what we'd call "all there." The end of society will do that to a man, it seems.

JoystiqMeet Bill, the grizzled elderly gentleman in The Last of Us originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 16 Jul 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>billnaughty-dogplaystationps3san-diego-comic-consan-diego-comic-con-2012sceasdcc-2012sony-computer-entertainment-americathe-last-of-usMon, 16 Jul 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Cole McGrath, Jak and Daxter added to PlayStation All-Stars: Battle Royale roster [Update: Now with trailers!]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/15/xxx-and-xxx-added-to-playstation-all-stars-battle-royale-roster/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/15/xxx-and-xxx-added-to-playstation-all-stars-battle-royale-roster/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/15/xxx-and-xxx-added-to-playstation-all-stars-battle-royale-roster/#comments Cole McGrath, Jak and Daxter added to PlayStation AllStars Battle Royale roster
Cole McGrath of Infamous fame and Jak and Daxter of, well, Jak and Daxter fame were just revealed as the two latest additions to the PlayStation All-Stars: Battle Royale cast during a panel at SDCC.

As seen in the announcement trailer above, Jak and Daxter will function as a pair of characters working in tandem and controlled by one player, sort of like Ice Climbers in Smash Bros. Jak will utilize signature weapons from his series, such as the Gyro Burster and Mass Inverter, and also has the ability to transform into Dark or Light Jax. Daxter will lend a hand with melee attacks, and probably provide moral support. Meanwhile, McGrath's move list is predictably lightning oriented.

Head on past the break for two more trailers showcasing the new characters.

Continue reading Cole McGrath, Jak and Daxter added to PlayStation All-Stars: Battle Royale roster [Update: Now with trailers!]

JoystiqCole McGrath, Jak and Daxter added to PlayStation All-Stars: Battle Royale roster [Update: Now with trailers!] originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 15 Jul 2012 14:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cole-mcgrathcomic-con-2012jak-and-daxterplaystationplaystation-all-stars-battle-royaleplaystation-vitaps3SCEAsdcc-2012Sony-Computer-Entertainment-Americasuperbot-entertainmentvitaSun, 15 Jul 2012 14:25:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation All-Stars' combo system is more Marvel than Smash Bros.]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/15/playstation-all-stars-combo-system-is-more-marvel-than-smash-br/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/15/playstation-all-stars-combo-system-is-more-marvel-than-smash-br/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/15/playstation-all-stars-combo-system-is-more-marvel-than-smash-br/#comments
PlayStation All-Stars: Battle Royale faces an interesting challenge in ingratiating itself to the patently skeptical fighting game world, as not only is it a brand new IP, but it's also a four-player brawler, rather than a "traditional" 2D or 3D fighter.

The game's combo system, however, has more in common with Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3 than it does any iteration of the Super Smash Bros. series, as is evident by the trailer above. Speaking personally, we love the idea of legitimate combos in a brawler setting, but we're also worried about keeping track of something that complicated during a fully-zoomed four-player fight. What if we get confused and do a forward quarter-circle instead of a backward quarter-circle? How embarrassing.

JoystiqPlayStation All-Stars' combo system is more Marvel than Smash Bros. originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 15 Jul 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>combo-systemcomboscomic-con-2012playstationplaystation-all-stars-battle-royaleplaystation-vitaps3SCEASDCC-2012Sony-Computer-Entertainment-Americasuperbot-entertainmentvitaSun, 15 Jul 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale smashing bros on Oct. 23 in NA, Oct. 24 in EU]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/06/playstation-all-stars-battle-royale-smashing-bros-on-oct-23-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/06/playstation-all-stars-battle-royale-smashing-bros-on-oct-23-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/06/playstation-all-stars-battle-royale-smashing-bros-on-oct-23-in/#comments There's still lots that we don't know about SuperBot's PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale, but today we learned when it'll arrive on store shelves: October 23. At least that's the case for North Americans - Europeans get the game on October 24. And yes, that's the same release date for both PlayStation 3 and Vita versions - Sony's not revealing pricing or more info until its EVO 2012 panel later today (6PM PT). Those scoundrels!

The various costumes seen in the image above are part of the game's pre-order bonus, though someone should probably tell Sony that those giant yellow question marks are gonna look really weird in a fighting game. Honestly, who wants to play as question marks? Come on, guys.

JoystiqPlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale smashing bros on Oct. 23 in NA, Oct. 24 in EU originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Jul 2012 12:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstationplaystation-all-stars-battle-royaleplaystation-vitaps3q4-2012release-datesceasony-computer-entertainment-americasuperbotsuperbot-entertainmentvitaFri, 06 Jul 2012 12:16:00 EST<![CDATA[The Last of Us multi isn't campaign co-op]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/28/the-last-of-us-multi-isnt-campaign-co-op/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/28/the-last-of-us-multi-isnt-campaign-co-op/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/28/the-last-of-us-multi-isnt-campaign-co-op/#comments The multiplayer portion of The Last of Us will not be campaign co-op, Naughty Dog recently told Gaming Examiner. The possibility of cooperative play hasn't been ruled out entirely, as the developer noted, "We're not ready to talk about the details of how multiplayer will be implemented, however we can say that it is not co-op within the main campaign."

It's still possible we'll see cooperative play offered in discreet episodes, as Naughty Dog did with the Uncharted series. Of course, there's the possibility for adversarial multiplayer as well, though that seems a bit ... inappropriate given the heavy subject matter in The Last of Us.

JoystiqThe Last of Us multi isn't campaign co-op originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Jun 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>co-opmultiplayernaughty-dogplaystationps3sceasony-computer-entertainment-americathe-last-of-usThu, 28 Jun 2012 12:30:00 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[God of War: Ascension E3 demo pits Kratos against the animal collective]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/18/god-of-war-ascension-e3-demo-pits-kratos-against-the-animal-col/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/18/god-of-war-ascension-e3-demo-pits-kratos-against-the-animal-col/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/18/god-of-war-ascension-e3-demo-pits-kratos-against-the-animal-col/#comments God of War Ascension E3 demonstration pits Kratos against the animal collective
Well, okay, maybe not that Animal Collective, but this God of War: Ascension walkthrough from Sony's E3 press conference does predominantly pit Kratos against a cadre of half-man, half-animal manimals. The demo also showcases Kratos' newly acquired reconstructive abilities, as well as the quick-time events we've all come to expect from the series.

As far as creature design is concerned, we have to admit that we're pretty enthused by what we see here -- we're quite partial to the elephant man, ourselves. No, not that Elephant Man.

JoystiqGod of War: Ascension E3 demo pits Kratos against the animal collective originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Jun 2012 19:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>E3-2012god-of-war-ascensionplaystationps3Sony-Computer-Entertainment-Americasony-santa-monicaMon, 18 Jun 2012 19:40:00 EST<![CDATA[The Last of Us not hitting (or shooting, or sneaking) until 2013]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/14/the-last-of-us-not-hitting-or-shooting-or-sneaking-until-2013/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/14/the-last-of-us-not-hitting-or-shooting-or-sneaking-until-2013/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/14/the-last-of-us-not-hitting-or-shooting-or-sneaking-until-2013/#comments The Last of Us not hitting or shooting, or sneaking until 2013
The last we heard about The Last of Us arriving at retail, it was pinned to "late 2012/early 2013." That date seemingly shifted to a less definitive "2013" recently, as Naughty Dog creative director Neil Druckmann and game director Bruce Straley told Jimmy Fallon as much on last night's Late Night.

The Naughty Dog duo also gave Fallon a personal walkthrough of the gameplay we saw back at E3, with 100 percent fewer swears and 100 percent more Jimmy Fallon commentary. If you're into that kinda thing, we've got it above.

JoystiqThe Last of Us not hitting (or shooting, or sneaking) until 2013 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Jun 2012 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bruce-Straleydelayjimmy-fallonlate-night-with-jimmy-fallonnaughty-dogneil-druckmannplaystationps3release-datesceasony-computer-entertainment-americathe-last-of-usThu, 14 Jun 2012 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Status Report: the PlayStation Vita, three months in]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/12/status-report-the-playstation-vita-three-months-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/12/status-report-the-playstation-vita-three-months-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/12/status-report-the-playstation-vita-three-months-in/#comments "Three months, forty titles in. I think it's a fantastic machine. Of course we'd like to sell more of them, and we have key plans to do that," Sony's VP of Product Development and Worldwide Studios, Scott Rohde, told us in an interview during E3 2012. We asked Rohde for a status update on the PlayStation Vita, which launched in North America in late February. Despite less than stellar sales of the handheld and a light upcoming game lineup, Rohde's positivity on the Vita is unshaken.

"We're building a lot of additional titles internally. A lot of good third-party support, you saw that announced at our press conference. So, we think that it's certainly on the rise. Still doing well. Would we like it to do better? Of course. And we're doing everything we can in terms of providing great new content - sixty titles next year - to insure that that will happen," he said.

Despite Rohde's claims, Sony reps hardly mentioned the Vita during the company's E3 2012 press conference. Across an hour and a half, the three-month-old console only warranted three mentions, and just one for a first-party Vita game (PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale). As host, SCEA president and CEO Jack Tretton promised 60 new games on Vita in 2012, but didn't show a single one. Outside of PS All-Stars, the only two Vita games shown were third-party juggernauts Call of Duty Black Ops: Declassified and Assassin's Creed 3: Liberation. Both of those are scheduled to launch this year.

"You know that Sly will also have a PlayStation Vita presence. Some things that we're not announcing yet. You saw LittleBigPlanet Vita ... if I can sit here and say you've got PlayStation All-Stars, you've got Sly, you've got Assassin's, you've got Call of Duty, and you've got LittleBigPlanet - that's a pretty nice set to build a foundation on," Rohde added. "And there are a lot of other bigger and smaller things that we just haven't announced yet."

Of the system itself, Rohde said he "wouldn't change anything" about it. As for the launch, however, he said, "If I could go back in time, maybe I would've spread out some of the software releases a little bit." 25 games of varying quality launched alongside the PlayStation Vita this past February, with 10 more in the console's "launch window" (that window is apparently still open, as Silent Hill: Book of Memories has yet to come out).

That latest game from Sony's internal studios for Vita is the critically acclaimed Gravity Rush. PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale is planned for a "holiday" launch on PlayStation 3 and Vita.

JoystiqStatus Report: the PlayStation Vita, three months in originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Jun 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2012jack-trettonplaystationplaystation-vitasceascott-rohdesonysony-computer-entertainment-americavitaTue, 12 Jun 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Uncharted is a 'pillar franchise,' nothing to say about its future just yet]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/08/uncharted-is-a-pillar-franchise-nothing-to-say-about-its-futu/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/08/uncharted-is-a-pillar-franchise-nothing-to-say-about-its-futu/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/08/uncharted-is-a-pillar-franchise-nothing-to-say-about-its-futu/#comments "This show is about Naughty Dog and The Last of Us. So we're not talking about Uncharted for the future," Sony VP of product development and worldwide studios Scott Rohde told Joystiq in an interview this week. That doesn't mean there aren't things happening with the Uncharted franchise elsewhere at Sony, of course. "It's a Sony IP, but it's just not something we're talking about. Of course it's one of our pillar franchises," Rohde said.

The latest entry in the Uncharted franchise was the Vita's Uncharted: Golden Abyss - the series' first title not developed by Naughty Dog. Its production was instead handled by Sony's internal Bend studio, with Naughty Dog overseeing development. Rohde added that "it'd be ridiculous to say that we're not always thinking about [Uncharted], but we're just not talking about it right now."

JoystiqUncharted is a 'pillar franchise,' nothing to say about its future just yet originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Jun 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2012naughty-dogplaystationplaystation-vitaps3sce-bendsceascott-rohdesony-bendsony-computer-entertainment-americauncharted-golden-abyssuncharted-ngpvitaFri, 08 Jun 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii U lead isn't important, contends Sony's Rohde]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/07/wii-u-lead-isnt-important-contends-sonys-rohde/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/07/wii-u-lead-isnt-important-contends-sonys-rohde/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/07/wii-u-lead-isnt-important-contends-sonys-rohde/#comments Wii U lead isn't important, contends Sony's RohdeSony isn't talking next-gen at this year's E3. Nor is Microsoft. Nintendo's Wii U, however, got its big debut this week, and the console is planned for a holiday 2012 launch. As we learned in the last hardware generation and the generation before that, being the first out of the gate in terms of launching hardware can mean the difference between first and third place. SCEA Senior VP of Product Development and worldwide studios Scott Rohde, however, isn't worried about the potential for Wii U to lead the next hardware generation due to its launch lead.

"Not at all. That's the simple answer," he told Joystiq in an interview this week. "In very similar fashion to the way I'm talking about game development," he said, referencing Sony's hands-off approach to internal game development. "We have a very strong vision in what we believe we're gonna do for the next generation. And we're not talking about it at all yet," he added with a smile.

"The reality is let's build a great machine. And we'll talk about it then." With Unreal Engine 4 getting a big debut recently, and it being held up as the harbinger of the next hardware generation, we expect we'll be hearing from both Sony about that potentially "great machine" not too long from now.

JoystiqWii U lead isn't important, contends Sony's Rohde originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Jun 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2012next-gennext-generationplaystationps3sceascott-rohdesonysony-computer-entertainmentsony-computer-entertainment-americaThu, 07 Jun 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony's Rohde explains The Last Guardian's E3 absence: 'It just wasn't appropriate for us to give an update']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/06/sonys-rohde-explains-the-last-guardians-e3-absence-it-just-w/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/06/sonys-rohde-explains-the-last-guardians-e3-absence-it-just-w/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/06/sonys-rohde-explains-the-last-guardians-e3-absence-it-just-w/#comments Sony's Rohde explains The Last Guardian's E3 absence 'It just wasn't appropriate for us to give an update'Sony's E3 2012 press conference was full of surprises. For one, Quantic Dream's new game was unveiled - Beyond - Two Souls. Just like that!

More surprising, however, was a game that didn't make an appearance: The Last Guardian. Since being teased in a January 2008 Sony Japan job listing with a single image, the Team Ico-developed game has only been shown by Sony a handful of times. Moreover, the only news we've heard recently on the long in-development project has been worrisome - the game's creative lead, Fumito Ueda, ended his employment at Sony and began working on the game as a contractor. And then in February, Sony revealed that the company's Santa Monica studio was assisting in the development process.

SCEA senior VP of product development and worldwide studios, Scott Rohde, assured me in an interview this week that the game's absence from Sony's presser isn't something gamers should be concerned with. "It just wasn't appropriate for us to give an update. That's just how it worked out," Rohde said. Rather than seeing it as a potential sign that the four-plus year project is stagnating, Rohde said that it's absence was a question of time limitations during the press conference and Sony's approach to internal development. "Almost more than any game that Worldwide Studios develops, it's all about the emotion and the experience that's crafted in what that team can deliver. And there's a vision that must be upheld. And until it can be upheld, it's not gonna ship," he said.

JoystiqSony's Rohde explains The Last Guardian's E3 absence: 'It just wasn't appropriate for us to give an update' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jun 2012 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2012fumito-uedajapan-studioplaystationps3sceascott-rohdesony-computer-entertainment-americasony-japan-studiosony-worldwide-studiosteam-icoThe-Last-Guardiantricoworldwide-studiosWed, 06 Jun 2012 14:45:00 EST