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[SCi receives, turns aside potential takeover bid]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/23/sci-receives-turns-aside-potential-takeover-bid/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/23/sci-receives-turns-aside-potential-takeover-bid/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/23/sci-receives-turns-aside-potential-takeover-bid/#commentsFiled under:


While talk of a takeover of British publisher SCi continues to be tossed around, this doesn't mean that Lara Croft's troubled parent is open to shacking up with just anyone.

This week the company confirmed that it has received an offer from an unspecified suitor at a "significant premium" to SCi's current share price. However, the company stayed strong, turning away what we imagine to be bags of money emblazoned with dollar signs, claiming the offer was "not be in the best interests of the company or its shareholders." Still, with 14 projects in the vertical file and key management on the run, it might be time for SCi to lower its standards.

JoystiqSCi receives, turns aside potential takeover bid originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Apr 2008 12:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acquisitionediosscistockstomb-raidertombraiderWed, 23 Apr 2008 12:03:00 EST<![CDATA[SCi pulls out of buyout talks, stock plunges following Tomb Raider delay]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/11/sci-pulls-out-of-buyout-talks-stock-plunges-following-tomb-raid/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/11/sci-pulls-out-of-buyout-talks-stock-plunges-following-tomb-raid/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/11/sci-pulls-out-of-buyout-talks-stock-plunges-following-tomb-raid/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,


Eidos owner SCi has been on the hunt for a potential suitor for some time, reportedly having batted its eyelashes at everyone from Midway and Vivendi to Time Warner and even some mysterious outfit in China, with none showing enough interest to sign their name across the dotted line. However, after having been given the cold shoulder by Ubisoft last October, the British firm has finally gotten the hint and moved on, stating that it had not received any formal offers within the requested timeframe.

What this means to you and I is that it may be some time before we see another major release branded with the Eidos logo, as SCi confirmed that it has pushed out the recently revealed Tomb Raider: Underworld until the fourth quarter of 2008, along with three other unspecified titles. The company also announced plans to bring Lara Croft's latest escapade to the DS, Wii and PS2, in addition to the previously known versions for the PC, PS3, and Xbox 360.

Way to be strong, SCi, but you might not want to look at your stock this morning. Following the firm's decision to go it alone, SCi's stock hit "rock bottom," and according to a new Bloomberg report, suffered its biggest plummet in more than 18 years, falling some 61 percent after SCi admitted that the aforementioned delays will likely result in an operating loss for 2008 and that the company may need to look to outside parties for the money to stay afloat. Of course, with SCi's share price now swimming with the fishes, we wouldn't be too surprised if another company now swooped in and bought up SCi and its properties at bargain basement prices. You hear that EA? Someone is singing your song.

JoystiqSCi pulls out of buyout talks, stock plunges following Tomb Raider delay originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 Jan 2008 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acquisitioncrystal dynamicscrystal-dynamicsCrystalDynamicsDSeidoslara croftlara-croftLaraCroftPCPS2PS3scistocktomb raidertomb-raiderTombRaiderWiiXbox-360Fri, 11 Jan 2008 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[CES 2008: New titles join Games for Windows portfolio]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/07/new-titles-join-games-for-windows-portfolio/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/07/new-titles-join-games-for-windows-portfolio/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/07/new-titles-join-games-for-windows-portfolio/#commentsFiled under: ,


In another CES 2008 announcement, Microsoft has highlighted nine new additions to its Games for Windows endeavor, promising to "continue the momentum for Windows-based gaming in 2008" and "revive" the PC gaming space. The titles due to be dressed in Microsoft's colors include:
  • Alone in the Dark (Atari)
  • Bionic Commando (Capcom)
  • Conflict: Denied Ops (Eidos Interactive)
  • Empire: Total War (SEGA)
  • LEGO Indiana Jones (LucasArts)
  • Microsoft Train Simulator 2 (Microsoft Game Studios)
  • Sins of a Solar Empire (Stardock)
  • Space Siege (SEGA)
  • Tomb Raider: Underworld (Eidos Interactive)
The list not only cements the "Underworld" subtitle to Eidos' next Tomb Raider, but provides reassurance as to the longevity of Microsoft's initiative. Games for Windows is sure to be around for quite some time if Alone in the Dark manages to arrive under its banner. Microsoft's polite press release is also keen to remind us that other expected 2008 titles -- Age of Conan: Hyborian Adventures, Borderlands, The Club, Fallout 3 and Frontlines: Fuel of War -- will stand beneath the flapping emblem.

JoystiqCES 2008: New titles join Games for Windows portfolio originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 07 Jan 2008 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Alone-in-The-DarkAloneintheDarkBionic-CommandoCESCES-2008Conflict-Denied-OpsEmpireEmpire-Total-WarGames-For-WindowsGamesForWindowsGFWLego-Indiana-JonesMicrosoftMSFTPCSins-of-a-Solar-EmpireSpace-SiegeTomb-Raider-UnderworldTombRaiderTrain-Simulator-2Mon, 07 Jan 2008 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[New Tomb Raider outlined in Play]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/14/new-tomb-raider-outlined-in-play/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/14/new-tomb-raider-outlined-in-play/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/14/new-tomb-raider-outlined-in-play/#commentsFiled under: ,


As reported by Tomb Raider Chronicles, the latest issue of Play contains the first information regarding the next iteration of the Tomb Raider series. The issue was apparently available online earlier this morning, but has since been removed from Play's online store. Thankfully, Tomb Raider Chronicles have the details anyway. First and foremost, the game takes place after Tomb Raider: Legend. The game will be subtitled Underworld and will feature "a lush, vast interactive world." Whether or not this means the game will utilize the ever trendy sandbox / open world gameplay style remains unclear. The rest of the details center around nifty graphical effects like realistic footprint physics (no, seriously) and the fully motion captured acrobatics of Lara's latest incarnation. The game just might make it for a 2008 release and, yes, a 360 version looks to be in the cards.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqNew Tomb Raider outlined in Play originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 Dec 2007 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicseidostomb-raidertomb-raider-underworldtombraiderFri, 14 Dec 2007 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider engine to power Deus Ex 3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/03/tomb-raider-engine-to-power-deus-ex-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/03/tomb-raider-engine-to-power-deus-ex-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/03/tomb-raider-engine-to-power-deus-ex-3/#commentsFiled under: ,

Adding itself to the rather small list of next-gen titles not using Epic's Unreal Engine, Eidos Montreal studio head Stephane D'Astous has confirmed to Develop that Deus Ex 3 will use fellow Eidos developer Crystal Dynamics' Tomb Raider engine to render its presumably post-apocalyptic environments. Said D'Astous, "We chose the Crystal engine because we plan to help develop this engine more and then share it back with the rest of the company, the other Eidos studios."

The other in-house engine D'Astous considered was IO Interactive, who are responsible for the Hitman franchise and Kane & Lynch, the title currently vying for "Most Controversial Game of the Year" award. The original Deus Ex was designed by Warren Spector and Harvey Smith; although Spector is busy at Disney, perhaps the now out-of-work Smith can find a way to contribute to the new game (or, as Ludwig would put it, repent for Invisible War).

JoystiqTomb Raider engine to power Deus Ex 3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 03 Dec 2007 15:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicsdeus-exdeus-ex-3eidostechtomb-raidertombraiderMon, 03 Dec 2007 15:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Eidos trademarks 'Tomb Raider Underworld']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/03/eidos-trademarks-tomb-raider-underworld/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/03/eidos-trademarks-tomb-raider-underworld/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/03/eidos-trademarks-tomb-raider-underworld/#commentsFiled under: ,

With Kane & Lynch a little tied up at the moment with the Gerstmann caper, we turn our attention to former Eidos darling Lara Croft, who's been making some strides back to prominence with her past two excellent games. It seems that when she returns, it may be under the banner of "Tomb Raider Underworld," a phrase Eidos has just registered for use in "video game software" and strategy guides.

You're probably thinking that the phrase will be the title for the next Tomb Raider game, and we doubt that you're that far off. After Tomb Raider Legacy Legend and Tomb Raider Anniversary, we'll just be happy to have a sub-title that doesn't sound like it wants to sell us insurance.

[Via Trademork]

JoystiqEidos trademarks 'Tomb Raider Underworld' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 03 Dec 2007 12:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicseidostomb-raidertombraiderMon, 03 Dec 2007 12:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider: Anniversary now on XBLM]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/23/tomb-raider-anniversary-now-on-xblm/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/23/tomb-raider-anniversary-now-on-xblm/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/23/tomb-raider-anniversary-now-on-xblm/#commentsFiled under: ,


Hungry for more tomb raiding? Have you squeezed out every possible ounce of entertainment from Tomb Raider: Legend? Have you suddenly developed an aversion to disc-based media? Well then, do we have a deal for you. Seemingly out of nowhere, the previously promised downloadable version of Tomb Raider: Anniversary is now available on Xbox Live Marketplace. The game has been split into two significantly more than bite-sized chunks, each of which will run you 1200 MS Points or, in the common vernacular, $15. Put them both together and the game costs as much as its PS2 counterpart and actually $10 less than the retail Xbox 360 version. Just make sure you still have a Tomb Raider: Legend disc lying around, as the downloadable Anniversary requires it.

JoystiqTomb Raider: Anniversary now on XBLM originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 Nov 2007 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eidostomb-raidertomb-raider-anniversarytomb-raider-legendtombraidertombraideranniversarytombraiderlegendFri, 23 Nov 2007 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Anatomy of a disaster: Tomb Raider: Angel of Darkness]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/09/anatomy-of-a-disaster-tomb-raider-angel-of-darkness/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/09/anatomy-of-a-disaster-tomb-raider-angel-of-darkness/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/09/anatomy-of-a-disaster-tomb-raider-angel-of-darkness/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Next-Gen is running a piece from Edge Magazine about how Tomb Raider: The Angel of Darkness went so terribly wrong. Angel of Darkness was the last Lara Croft game created by developer Core before publisher Eidos said to hell with them and gave Croft duties to Crystal Dynamics (who have yet to disappoint).

The piece starts with just how awful Angel of Darkness was, but things really get moving with an anecdote of Core Design's co-founder, Jeremy Heath-Smith, cursing through the game's opening level at a buyers' conference. The story ends with most of Core's staff leaving due to management issues and Eidos taking Lara away. Angel of Darkness is a case study on how a franchise can be run into the ground and yet still find redemption in the hands of another.

JoystiqAnatomy of a disaster: Tomb Raider: Angel of Darkness originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 Nov 2007 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>angelofdarknesslaracroftPS2tomb-raidertombraiderFri, 09 Nov 2007 09:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Dev walks us through raiding some tombs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/15/dev-walks-us-through-raiding-some-tombs/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/15/dev-walks-us-through-raiding-some-tombs/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/15/dev-walks-us-through-raiding-some-tombs/#commentsFiled under:


Ever since it was announced, we have been chomping at the bit to see more on Lara's raiding on the Wii. Morgan Gray, senior producer on the game, hooks us up with some footage, allowing us to break this dry spell. Notable segments of the video include combat and puzzle interaction.

We're not going to waste any more time trying to give you impressions, when you should be seeing the video yourself past the break. Come on, get to it!

Continue reading Dev walks us through raiding some tombs

JoystiqDev walks us through raiding some tombs originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Aug 2007 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eidostombraiderWed, 15 Aug 2007 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider Anniversary on PSP looks just like the PS2 game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/15/tomb-raider-anniversary/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/15/tomb-raider-anniversary/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/15/tomb-raider-anniversary/#commentsFiled under: ,

After weeks of perpetual delay, Tomb Raider Anniversary is finally out for PSP. Eidos was strangely suspicious about the PSP version, refusing to release video of the handheld edition. Thankfully, it appears that the PSP version looks a lot like the PS2 version. Check out this new video from PSP GadgetZ to see for yourself.

With the game readily available, we want to know what you think about the game. Certainly, this game doesn't deserve to go without notice, does it?

JoystiqTomb Raider Anniversary on PSP looks just like the PS2 game originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Aug 2007 12:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>pspgadgetztombraiderWed, 15 Aug 2007 12:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Pre-Teen Raider cartoon not so creepy after all]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/09/pre-teen-raider-cartoon-not-so-creepy-after-all/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/09/pre-teen-raider-cartoon-not-so-creepy-after-all/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/09/pre-teen-raider-cartoon-not-so-creepy-after-all/#commentsFiled under: ,


When we first heard of the premise behind GameTap's latest Re/Visioned cartoon, "Pre-Teen Raider," we thought we'd be asked to "have a seat" by Dateline corespondents just for watching. Lara Croft's pre-teen adventure was released over at GameTap today and despite the terrible wording, it's actually quite clean and clever to boot.

The five minute short is the brainchild of comic book writer Gail Simone, best known for her work on Birds of Prey, as well as a highly anticipated run with Wonder Woman. Sir Chris of Kohler over at Wired's Game|Life has an interview with Simone where she talks about the challenge of taking a video game sex symbol and telling a story of her when she has yet to hit puberty. You know, all that stuff folks were concerned about.

JoystiqPre-Teen Raider cartoon not so creepy after all originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Aug 2007 16:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gailsimonegametaptombraiderThu, 09 Aug 2007 16:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Pre-Teen Raider is actual name of young Lara Croft toon]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/02/pre-teen-raider-is-actual-name-of-young-lara-croft-toon/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/02/pre-teen-raider-is-actual-name-of-young-lara-croft-toon/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/02/pre-teen-raider-is-actual-name-of-young-lara-croft-toon/#commentsFiled under: , ,

GameTap's Re/Visioned series takes beloved characters like Lara Croft and puts a new, bold spin on them through a series of short videos. For their new entry, we humbly suggest that someone should have taken the initiative to put a new, bold spin on the title, hopefully coming up with something a little less likely to attract the attention of Chris Hansen. Get ready for ... "Pre-Teen Raider." Seriously.

It's that rare sort of offering that, with the title alone, can attract teenage fans, the creepos that want to abduct them and those who hope to thwart their ill breed. It'd almost be poetic, if it weren't all so icky. See for yourself if the yuck washes off when "Pre-Teen Raider" comes to GameTap on August 9th.

JoystiqPre-Teen Raider is actual name of young Lara Croft toon originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Aug 2007 17:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gametaptombraiderThu, 02 Aug 2007 17:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Finally, Lara Croft papercraft!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/24/finally-lara-croft-papercraft/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/24/finally-lara-croft-papercraft/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/24/finally-lara-croft-papercraft/#commentsFiled under:


Making Link out of paper or spending an afternoon crafting Quake characters is all well and good, but why choose Link when you can sculpt a curvy female forms such as Lara Croft's? Ninjatoes spent grueling hours studying every inch of Lara's polygonal body and has made a papercraft worthy of our attention. With 116 parts, this ain't no paper hat project, so if you want Lara, you'll have to work for her.

[Via PaperKraft]

JoystiqFinally, Lara Croft papercraft! originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Jul 2007 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>laracroftpapercrafttombraiderTue, 24 Jul 2007 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Minnie Driver to voice animated Lara Croft]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/03/minnie-driver-to-voice-animated-lara-croft/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/03/minnie-driver-to-voice-animated-lara-croft/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/03/minnie-driver-to-voice-animated-lara-croft/#commentsFiled under: ,


We have a very serious question regarding this particular news item. What happens when you put Minnie Driver into a Mini Cooper S? Would the unusual occurrence of a famous Driver becoming a Mini driver release an unstoppable explosion of meta-energy, forcing the entire universe to infinitely collapse in on itself? We're not sure if anybody has tested this theory, but the more likely outcome would be Ms. Minnie running us over for childishly poking fun at her name and wasting an entire paragraph before talking about her latest role.

Ahem.

The gist of it, you see, is that GameTap's upcoming ReVision animated series, which initially chronicles the adventures of one Lara Croft, is set to become a star vehicle of sorts for Minnie Driver. Reuters reports the actress and occasional singer will lend her voice to Tomb Raider's gun-toting heroine for ten episodes, the first three of which will come from Aeon Flux alum, Peter Chung. Further episodes will have other artists interpreting the iconic action archaeologist, while future seasons of ReVision will delve into other characters and games.

[Via Tomb Raider Chronicles]

JoystiqMinnie Driver to voice animated Lara Croft originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Jul 2007 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>GametapLara CroftLaraCroftMinnie DriverMinnieDriverReVisionTomb RaiderTombRaiderTue, 03 Jul 2007 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Lara Croft opens women-only beach in Italy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/27/lara-croft-opens-women-only-beach-in-italy/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/27/lara-croft-opens-women-only-beach-in-italy/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/27/lara-croft-opens-women-only-beach-in-italy/#commentsFiled under: , ,


No, we're not quite sure we understand the purpose of a female-only beach either, but experience has taught us that it's never a good strategy to question the wisdom of a woman wielding two guns. Doubly so if said woman happens to be one famous for destroying dinosaurs and gallivanting through graves, Lara Croft. The action archaeologist and Tomb Raider star, here represented by non-polygonal human model Karima Adebibe (she's the one with the big guns), opened Italy's first women-only beach in Riccione, "an exclusive resort near Rimini on the east coast" as Gamertag Radio reminds us.

Though you may have briefly interpreted the presence of Lara's scantily-clad posse as proof that the next Tomb Raider game would be "Pikmin with babes," the ladies were in fact there to compete in "Miss Muretto," a beauty contest coinciding with the opening (or closing if you're a guy) of "Pink Beach." Don't worry, we're sure there's a nearby lookout point that's ideal for surveying Italy's finest beaches. If being a pervert isn't your thing, there's always the superb Tomb Raider: Anniversary to keep you occupied indoors.

JoystiqLara Croft opens women-only beach in Italy originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Jun 2007 14:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EidosLara CroftLaraCroftTomb RaiderTombRaiderWed, 27 Jun 2007 14:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Tomb Raider: Anniversary making its way to PS3?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/18/rumor-tomb-raider-anniversary-making-its-way-to-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/18/rumor-tomb-raider-anniversary-making-its-way-to-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/18/rumor-tomb-raider-anniversary-making-its-way-to-ps3/#commentsFiled under:

The Xbox 360 is receiving their Tomb Raider: Anniversary fix in the form of episodic content over Xbox Live, however it's initially limited only to those that own the last next-gen outing, Tomb Raider: Legend. While it would seem trite of Eidos to snub Sony by not releasing any similar content for the PlayStation Network, they do have plans to release a retail version of all episodic content on one disc. PSX Extreme says there is reason to believe this retail version will hit PS3 through the magical re-engineering of porting the Xbox 360 code.

We aren't holding our breath on this one. Knowing how most devs feel about the port process leave us more than a bit skeptical, especially considering the fact that Tomb Raider: Anniversary is more or less just a new map on top of the already-built game engine of Tomb Raider: Legend. Porting it to PS3 would more than likely take a larger team of devs to complete than Eidos is willing to fund. But hey, we're wishful thinkers. We sincerely hope that if this slim rumor holds any weight, the port team will be diligent and give PS3 owners the chance to experience the new Tomb Raider: Anniversary content in all its PS3 splendor.

JoystiqRumor: Tomb Raider: Anniversary making its way to PS3? originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Jun 2007 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal dynamicsCrystalDynamicseidoslara croftLaraCrofttomb raidertomb raider: anniversarytomb raider: legendTombRaiderTombRaider:AnniversaryTombRaider:LegendMon, 18 Jun 2007 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider episodic content in September]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/18/tomb-raider-episodic-content-in-september/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/18/tomb-raider-episodic-content-in-september/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/18/tomb-raider-episodic-content-in-september/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Eidos UK announced that Tomb Raider: Anniversary will be 4 pieces of episodic content, playable through Tomb Raider: Legend, with the first two episodes releasing in September. The complete set, (including a the Croft Manor as a free download), will come to 2400 MS points, or 600 Microsoft points per episode. Since playing requires having Legend handy, those strictly wanting the content alone can wait until later in the year for the retail release. So, in short we were right, but it still leaves a question lingering. Since the episodes will be tied to Legend, is there going to be a maximum of 250 Gamerscore to be given out, if it even has additional Achievements? If that's the case, then what about the retail release, will that have 1000 Gamerscore? Either way, this could be breaking new ground on Xbox Live.

[Via Joystiq. Thanks, Bob]

JoystiqTomb Raider episodic content in September originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Jun 2007 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AnniversaryLara CroftLara Croft Tomb RaiderLara Croft Tomb Raider AnniversaryLaraCroftLaraCroftTombRaiderLaraCroftTombRaiderAnniversaryTomb RaiderTomb Raider AnniversaryTombRaiderTombRaiderAnniversaryMon, 18 Jun 2007 10:45:00 EST<![CDATA[GameTap expanding free play to 40 titles by month's end]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/14/gametap-expanding-free-play-to-40-titles-by-months-end/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/14/gametap-expanding-free-play-to-40-titles-by-months-end/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/14/gametap-expanding-free-play-to-40-titles-by-months-end/#commentsFiled under:

GameTap just let us know that near the end of this month they'll be moving up their free play service from 30 games (which currently has Tomb Raider: Legend) to 40 games. They also have the Lara Croft animated series going on beginning in July and hopefully full Mac support by the end of summer.

As for their regular subscription service, they added five new games today:
  • Psychonauts
  • King of Fighters 97
  • Golden Axe: The Duel
  • Art of Fighting 3
  • Metal Slug 3
If you haven't tried the excellent Tomb Raider: Anniversary yet, GameTap is probably the cheapest option in which to play it -- next to outright stealing.

JoystiqGameTap expanding free play to 40 titles by month's end originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Jun 2007 15:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gametaplaracroftnew gamesPCtombraiderThu, 14 Jun 2007 15:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider Anniversary coming to 360 (as DLC?)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/06/tomb-raider-anniversary-coming-to-360-as-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/06/tomb-raider-anniversary-coming-to-360-as-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/06/tomb-raider-anniversary-coming-to-360-as-dlc/#commentsFiled under:


Is there anything the ESRB can't do? Routinely revealing numerous Xbox Live Arcade games, the ratings board has now revealed that Tomb Raider: Anniversary is headed to the Xbox 360. In an interesting twist, the ESRB actually lists five different entries for the game, each with a different locale specified. In all, Peru, Lost City, Greece, Egypt, and Croft Manor are listed. This specificity leads us (and Joystiq) to conclude that Anniversary will be offered as downloadable content. Whether this is done via Tomb Raider: Legend or as independent downloadable episodes remains to be seen (if we had to guess, we'd say it'll be Legend DLC). Considering Anniversary costs $30 on other platforms, a $5-6 price tag for each episode on Xbox Live Marketplace would be reasonable (though we're not necessarily expecting it).

We really enjoyed Lara Croft's first outing on the 360, so here's hoping Eidos makes an official announcement soon.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqTomb Raider Anniversary coming to 360 (as DLC?) originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jun 2007 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>esrblive marketplaceLiveMarketplacemarketplacetomb raidertomb raider anniversarytomb raider legendTombRaiderTombRaiderAnniversaryTombRaiderLegendxblmxbox live marketplaceXboxLiveMarketplaceWed, 06 Jun 2007 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GameTap launches free ad-supported service]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/31/gametap-launches-free-ad-supported-service/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/31/gametap-launches-free-ad-supported-service/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/31/gametap-launches-free-ad-supported-service/#commentsFiled under: ,


Today begins the next iteration of game subscription service GameTap. One of the key components of this new version is the free ad-supported service that'll have about 30 games on a rotating schedule, starting with titles like Metal Slug (which will have online co-op), Bust-A-Move, Bubble Bobble and Rampage. Best of all, part of this free service is being able to play the excellent return of Lara Croft in last year's Tomb Raider: Legend. Yes, for free.

As part of their regular paying subscription service, GameTap is rolling out Panzer Dragoon, Metal Slug 2, Art of Fighting, The King of Fighters '95 and Tomb Raider: Legend. We're mostly looking forward to logging into the service next week and playing Tomb Raider: Anniversary as part of the normal subscription fee without having to experience the unwashed masses at retail. You can also purchase the full version digitally from Steam if you don't want to pony up the $10 for GameTap, or there is always the option to purchasing it directly from GameTap's new digitial distribution service, which is completely different from their subscription and free gaming sections. There's a lot of changes going on at GameTap, and we're more than happy to play classic arcade and console games free ... legally.

JoystiqGameTap launches free ad-supported service originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 31 May 2007 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>freegametaplara croftPCsubscriptiontomb raiderTombRaiderThu, 31 May 2007 15:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Lara Croft mannequin mistaken for gunman, house raided]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/16/lara-croft-mannequin-mistaken-for-gunman-house-raided/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/16/lara-croft-mannequin-mistaken-for-gunman-house-raided/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/16/lara-croft-mannequin-mistaken-for-gunman-house-raided/#commentsFiled under:

We're not sure how this emergency call went out, but we imagine it sounded something like this:

"Hello, Police. What's your emergency?"

"It's my neighbor. There's a gunman in his house!"

"Please calm down. Describe the situation to us, sir."

"Well ... it's not really a gunman, per se. It's definitely a gunwoman."

"There's an armed woman in your neighbor's house?"

"Yes. She's definitely got a gun and ... an enormous chest. Really, those things look fake."

After receiving the call from HQ, armed police raided the home of one Mr. David Williams who had brought the most definitely fake dummy home from work to unload on eBay, where some lonely sap would bid on true love. Instead of sheepishly apologizing for the mistaken identity, police brought Mr. Williams downtown where he languished in a cell for thirteen hours. No word on what he told his cell-mates he was in for.

[Thanks, Dan G.]

JoystiqLara Croft mannequin mistaken for gunman, house raided originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 May 2007 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>funnylaracrofttombraiderWed, 16 May 2007 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Lara Croft to celebrate anniversary on the Wii? [update 1]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/14/lara-croft-to-celebrate-anniversary-on-the-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/14/lara-croft-to-celebrate-anniversary-on-the-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/14/lara-croft-to-celebrate-anniversary-on-the-wii/#commentsFiled under:

Oh, she can raid our tomb any day ....

But, in all seriousness, Lara Croft's adventures spelunking and climbing, just doing her thing, have been something we've always enjoyed. Her games have been quite the treat (not all have been great, of course), so the prospect of her latest adventure (which is a revisit back to her first game, her best game) landing on the Wii is one that we cannot ignore. We want it, we need it.

News of the project coming to the Wii is courtesy of German gaming site GameFront, who've been pretty reliable as far as rumors go in the past. Let's hope this one pans out, as well.

Update: It's official! Rejoice, fellow tomb raiding enthusiasts!

[Via Codename Revolution]

JoystiqLara Croft to celebrate anniversary on the Wii? [update 1] originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 May 2007 15:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eidoslaracroftnintendonintendowiitombraiderwiiMon, 14 May 2007 15:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Today's raidingest video: Tomb Raider]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/26/todays-raidingest-video-tomb-raider/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/26/todays-raidingest-video-tomb-raider/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/26/todays-raidingest-video-tomb-raider/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Some of us have been jonseing for each successive Tomb Raider adventure ever since Lara Croft decided that messing up archaeological sites wasn't just for Indy. (Where were the interns and study? No, Kurtis Trent and Short Round don't count.) The June 5 launch of the original, remade with updated graphics (and we can only hope controls), as Tomb Raider: Anniversary is just around the corner.

The tombs aren't going to just raid themselves; our video pick is the latest trailer for the back-to-her roots game. We don't see much that we didn't already know -- surprise, the game has "mild suggestive themes" -- but we're sure fans will appreciate the latest look at Lara. See the video after the break.

Continue reading Today's raidingest video: Tomb Raider

JoystiqToday's raidingest video: Tomb Raider originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Apr 2007 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarylara croftLaraCroftlaura croftLauraCroftPCPS2PSPremaketomb raiderTomb-RaiderTomb-Raider-AnniversaryTombRaiderThu, 26 Apr 2007 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider Anniversary to revive Lara's legend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/20/tomb-raider-anniversary-to-revive-laras-legend/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/20/tomb-raider-anniversary-to-revive-laras-legend/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/20/tomb-raider-anniversary-to-revive-laras-legend/#commentsFiled under: ,

The upcoming Tomb Raider Anniversary is a complete re-imagining of the original PS1 classic. Anniversary, for PS2 and PSP, will include a brand-new graphics engine, and many of the acrobatic moves from the last Tomb Raider game, Legends.

We haven't seen any footage from the PSP version of the game, but we're hoping it'll look as stunning as what we see above. Anniversary hits stores this June.

JoystiqTomb Raider Anniversary to revive Lara's legend originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Apr 2007 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>tomb raidertomb raider anniversaryTombRaiderTombRaiderAnniversaryFri, 20 Apr 2007 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony unfurls Q2 release list for PlayStation platforms]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/19/sony-unfurls-q2-release-list-for-playstation-platforms/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/19/sony-unfurls-q2-release-list-for-playstation-platforms/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/19/sony-unfurls-q2-release-list-for-playstation-platforms/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Prompted by a panicked glance at a nearby calendar, Sony has blasted out a list of "key titles" slated for release on all manner of PlayStation devices during the second quarter of 2007. Starting over two weeks ago and ending on the last day of June, this period of time sees us paralyzed by F.E.A.R. and having to resort to Calling All Cars to save us from The Darkness brought by ninjas, pirates and Transformers. We'll likely run the Gauntlet in a Final Fantasy of Harvest Mooning... oh forget it.

Just read the list.

PSN
  • Calling All Cars -- 18 May
  • Nucleus -- 25 May
  • Super Stardust HD -- 15 June
  • Championship Sprint
  • Gauntlet II
  • Joust
  • Mortal Kombat II
  • Rampage World Tour
  • Super Puzzle Fighter II HD Remix
  • Rampart

[Note: PSN release dates as published by "semi-official", semi-accurate Sony blog, ThreeSpeech.]

Continue reading Sony unfurls Q2 release list for PlayStation platforms

JoystiqSony unfurls Q2 release list for PlayStation platforms originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Apr 2007 12:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Calling All CarsCallingAllCarsNucleusPlayStation NetworkPlaystationNetworkPS2PS3PSNPSN OnlinePsnOnlinePSPRidge RacerRidgeRacerSonysuper-stardust-hdTomb RaiderTombRaiderThu, 19 Apr 2007 12:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Low install base to blame for no Eidos titles?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/31/low-install-base-to-blame-for-no-eidos-titles/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/31/low-install-base-to-blame-for-no-eidos-titles/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/31/low-install-base-to-blame-for-no-eidos-titles/#commentsFiled under:

Eidos is, of course, referring to itself in the subject line. See, most of their PS3 titles aren't planned for release until 2008. That sucks. Why? They blame the low install base of the new console. Eidos may have new Tomb Raider, Hitman, and a possible Just Cause sequel in the works for the mid-2008 fiscal period.

Eidos CEO Jane Cavanagh made these comments: "We believe that PlayStation 3 will be a successful platform, and are developing technology and products for this console...However, as we do not believe that the installed base will be high enough until the second half of our 2008 financial year, most of our major product releases on the PlayStation 3 platform are not scheduled before that date."

To me, this says that Eidos doesn't have much faith in its games. They don't think they'll sell well, or they don't think they'll be nearly enough to move systems. Granted, they shouldn't think too highly of themselves, but no game developer should be complacent enough to make games that are "just okay". They need to work on something that will move systems! Something every dev should strive for! Revolution! ...Or, you know, get pumped up and stuff.

JoystiqLow install base to blame for no Eidos titles? originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 31 Mar 2007 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EidosHitmanJust CauseJustCausePlayStation 3Playstation3PS3SonyTomb RaiderTombRaiderSat, 31 Mar 2007 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider Anniversary site online]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/25/tomb-raider-anniversary-site-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/25/tomb-raider-anniversary-site-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/25/tomb-raider-anniversary-site-online/#commentsFiled under:

Ever wanted to go back and play the original Tomb Raider, but couldn't stand the old control scheme or graphics? Well. you're in luck, because Tomb Raider Anniversary will give you the chance to replay Lara's first game adventure but redone by the folks at Crystal Dynamics. Interested parties can explore the Tomb Raider Anniversary site to see screens, a trailer, info on the game or just to find out more about Ms. Croft herself. Since the last Tomb Raider turned out so well, there's a very good possibility this remake could be better than the original.

JoystiqTomb Raider Anniversary site online originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 25 Feb 2007 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lara croftLaraCrofttomb raidertomb raider anniversaryTombRaiderTombRaiderAnniversarySun, 25 Feb 2007 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The top ten girls of PSP]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/25/top-10-girls-of-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/25/top-10-girls-of-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/25/top-10-girls-of-psp/#commentsFiled under:

You've seen the top ten girls of Hooters. You've perused the top ten women of tennis. You may even have seen the top ten girls of gaming, but you haven't yet seen the top ten girls of PSP. Until now that is! The requirements are simple, to qualify she has to be a girl and has to be in a PSP game. But enough with the procrastinating, on with the ceremony!

Top ten after the jump ...

Continue reading The top ten girls of PSP

JoystiqThe top ten girls of PSP originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Jan 2007 23:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bleachchristie monteiroChristieMonteirodarkstalkersdaxterEvagirlsgitaroo manGitarooManguilty gearGuiltyGearhottest girlsHottestGirlsi-nokirahlara croftLaraCroftlian xingLianXingmetal gear solidMetalGearSolidmorriganorihimesakurastreet fighter alpha 3StreetFighterAlpha3syphon filterSyphonFiltertaryntekkentomb raiderTombRaiderThu, 25 Jan 2007 23:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Sequels! Eidos announces more Tomb Raider, Hitman, Just Cause]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/24/sequels-eidos-announces-more-tomb-raider-hitman-just-cause/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/24/sequels-eidos-announces-more-tomb-raider-hitman-just-cause/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/24/sequels-eidos-announces-more-tomb-raider-hitman-just-cause/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

just causeRest easy, there will be more Tomb Raider, more Hitman, and another Just Cause. And just 'cause, Eidos has also confirmed that a new edition of its perennial footie sim Championship Manager will hit the pitch for (at least) one more go'round. Although development is currently underway for the follow-up foursome, release dates have yet to be issued.

The expected sequels will be joined by Kane & Lynch and Crossfire, new IPs (they still bother with those?), along with Battlestations: Midway, which is due out next month.

JoystiqSequels! Eidos announces more Tomb Raider, Hitman, Just Cause originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Jan 2007 21:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>360Avalanche-StudiosChampionship ManagerChampionshipManagerEidosHitmanJust CauseJust-CauseJust-Cause-2JustCausePS3Tomb RaiderTombRaiderXbox 360Xbox-360Xbox360Wed, 24 Jan 2007 21:25:00 EST<![CDATA[The bottom of the barrel]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/17/the-bottom-of-the-barrel/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/17/the-bottom-of-the-barrel/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/17/the-bottom-of-the-barrel/#commentsFiled under:

What's this -- a list? Cue the frothing fanboys! But this latest list of the top ten worst DS games, as decided by the folks at Pocket Gamer, is definitely filled with some of the poorest examples of DS gaming. We're not sure if they're really the ten worst ever, though. Let's call them the "Ten Worst Titles Masquerading as Games You Might Almost Want to Play." Well, except for Lego Star Wars II: The Original Trilogy. We actually did want to play that, but y'know, we need it to function.

Check out the full list after the jump.

Continue reading The bottom of the barrel

JoystiqThe bottom of the barrel originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Jan 2007 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BurnoutDSGuilty GearGuiltyGearLegoNintendoStar WarsStarWarsTamagotchiTomb RaiderTombRaiderWed, 17 Jan 2007 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo holds key to franchise longevity, profitability]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/10/nintendo-holds-key-to-franchise-longevity-profitability/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/10/nintendo-holds-key-to-franchise-longevity-profitability/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/10/nintendo-holds-key-to-franchise-longevity-profitability/#commentsFiled under:

super marioAs noted earlier, a list published by UK newspaper The Independent reveals what many already assume; Nintendo's Mario is the best-selling franchise of all time. Coupled with the second best-selling franchise Pokémon (also a Nintendo property), the two series, which have sold a combined 348 million games worldwide, account for nearly 34% of the total sales of the top-twenty best-selling franchises; which include two additional Nintendo IPs ranked in the top ten, Donkey Kong and Zelda. So what's Nintendo's secret?

Cross-culture appeal, spin-offs (e.g., racers, sports titles, puzzlers), brand saturation (e.g., apparel, card games, TV shows), and E-ratings all appear part of a profitable formula built for the long haul.

Continue reading Nintendo holds key to franchise longevity, profitability

JoystiqNintendo holds key to franchise longevity, profitability originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Jan 2007 18:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CapcomCrash BandicootCrashBandicootDonkey KongDonkeyKongDragon QuestDragonQuestEAEidosElectronic ArtsElectronic-ArtsElectronicArtsFinal FantasyFinalFantasyFranchiseGran TurismoGrand Theft AutoGrandTheftAutoGranTurismoGTAJames BondJamesBondLegend of ZeldaLegendOfZeldaLineageMarioMega ManMegaManMidwayMortal KombatMortalKombatNCsoftNintendoPokemonResident EvilResidentEvilRockstarSegaSonicSquare EnixSquareEnixStreet FighterStreetFighterThe SimsTheSimsTomb RaiderTombRaiderZeldaWed, 10 Jan 2007 18:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Best of the rest: Ludwig's picks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/01/best-of-the-rest-ludwigs-picks/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/01/best-of-the-rest-ludwigs-picks/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/01/best-of-the-rest-ludwigs-picks/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,


Sam & Max Episode 1 : Culture Shock (PC)
I never thought I'd actually be grateful to LucasArts for assassinating their sequel to Sam & Max: Freelance Police. Now residing in the capable hands of Telltale Games, the series is setting the standard for episodic content and adventure gaming. Complete failure to laugh at Culture Shock's absolutely brilliant writing, memorable characters and off-the-wall puzzles indicates one of two things: either you're a robot, or you've recently discovered a dead kitten in your lap. (See also: My reviews of Culture Shock and Situation: Comedy.)

Continue reading Best of the rest: Ludwig's picks

JoystiqBest of the rest: Ludwig's picks originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 01 Jan 2007 18:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Final FantasyFinal Fantasy XIIFinalFantasyFinalFantasyXiiGame of the YearGameOfTheYearGhost ReconGhostReconGOTYLuminesMetal Gear SolidMetalGearSolidOkamiPCPS2PSPSonicSquare-EnixTomb RaiderTombRaiderXbox-360XenosagaMon, 01 Jan 2007 18:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Today's hottest game video: Tomb Raider trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/25/todays-hottest-game-video-tomb-raider-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/25/todays-hottest-game-video-tomb-raider-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/25/todays-hottest-game-video-tomb-raider-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

She's said to be "drool"-worthy, but does that make a good game? Today's most-watched GameTrailers video shows the acrobatic Lara Croft in the trailer for the next Tomb Raider game. With the required low-angle shots of Lara -- from in-front and behind -- the video mixes cut-scene-renders with a little in-game footage at the end.

See the trailer after the break. Did it make you drool?

Continue reading Today's hottest game video: Tomb Raider trailer

JoystiqToday's hottest game video: Tomb Raider trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Dec 2006 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hottest videoHottestVideoLara CroftLaraCroftPS3Tomb RaiderTombRaiderXbox-360Mon, 25 Dec 2006 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Lara Croft to make us drool, vows Eidos]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/18/new-lara-croft-to-make-us-drool-vows-eidos/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/18/new-lara-croft-to-make-us-drool-vows-eidos/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/18/new-lara-croft-to-make-us-drool-vows-eidos/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

lara...Eidos exec Ian Livingstone OBE reminds us that the next Tomb Raider is still all about the curves and bounce of its star Lara Croft. "I've seen some of the in-game models and it's just like watching television; if you felt you were in love with Lara Croft previously, you ain't seen nothing yet. You'll be drooling when you see the new Lara as she appears in the next iteration," Livingstone promised Eurogamer TV. Aw c'mon! Just tell us ... are you gonna license the DOA Xtreme engine?

But seriously, Livingstone wasn't even trying to sell us on any other aspect of the game. Is drool-factor enough to keep this franchise from falling off again?

In related news, for those that prefer a slightly more real infatuation, Angelina looks to be donning the short-shorts again, as Livingstone confirmed Paramount has agreed to hire a scriptwriter for a third Tomb Raider movie.

JoystiqNew Lara Croft to make us drool, vows Eidos originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Dec 2006 22:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Lara CroftLaraCroftPS3Tomb RaiderTombRaiderXbox-360Mon, 18 Dec 2006 22:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Warner Bros. buys 10% of SCi]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/15/warner-bros-buys-10-of-sci/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/15/warner-bros-buys-10-of-sci/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/15/warner-bros-buys-10-of-sci/#commentsFiled under:

Warner Bros., a subsidiary of Time Warner (who owns our parent company, Weblogs Inc.) is moving its way back into the gaming development business. Not since the Atari days in the 1980s has Warner held any serious hold in the game development front. Now it would seem that there are changes afoot.

Warner Bros. purchased a 10% interest in SCi Entertainment, better known to the world as Eidos, for £44.5 million (roughly $87 million). The new deal will give SCi access to Warner's long list of IPs; the list includes Looney Tunes and Batman.

Apart from Batman and possible improved leverage with DC Comics (another Time Warner subsidiary), SCi may want to be careful about overusing the licenses (Harry Potter was, oddly, not mentioned). Looney Tunes, while widely recognized, rarely translates into a quality gaming experience. If SCi can come up with some original content, Warner Bros. can use them for movies, not just a one way benefit.

JoystiqWarner Bros. buys 10% of SCi originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Dec 2006 13:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eidoseidos entertainmentEidosEntertainmentLara CroftLaraCroftSCi EntertainmentSciEntertainmentTime WarnerTimeWarnerTomb RaiderTombRaiderWarner Bros.WarnerBros.Fri, 15 Dec 2006 13:20:00 EST<![CDATA[China holds audition for its own Lara Croft]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/01/china-holds-audition-for-its-own-lara-croft/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/01/china-holds-audition-for-its-own-lara-croft/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/01/china-holds-audition-for-its-own-lara-croft/#commentsFiled under: , ,

the next lara?With Tomb Raider: Legend on the verge of release in China, SINA, a big-time online Chinese media corporation, set out to find the nation's 'Lara Croft.' It appears that nine would-be adventurers were singled out for the awkwardly titled "Play Girl" contest.

The winners received a cash prize and will be featured in a "live action" photo bundled with the game.

JoystiqChina holds audition for its own Lara Croft originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Dec 2006 02:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ChinaContestLara CroftLaraCroftTomb RaiderTombRaiderFri, 01 Dec 2006 02:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview: Tomb Raider Legend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/16/metareview-tomb-raider-legend/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/16/metareview-tomb-raider-legend/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/16/metareview-tomb-raider-legend/#commentsFiled under: ,

It's been awhile since Ms. Croft has graced a Nintendo system and, according to the latest reviews of Tomb Raider Legend on the DS, it's for good reason. This port of an otherwise enjoyable title is apparently lacking some TLC, resulting in one unenjoyable time. That's a shame, we were hoping this would be more fun than it seems ...
  • Nintendo Power - 45%: "In the future, hopefully Eidos's commitment to rejuvenating the series will carry over to the handheld installments, but this uninspired port feels like it belongs to the crumbling franchise of a few years ago rather than the new and improved Legend." [Dec. 2006, p.105]
  • Games Radar - 50%: "Despite all of the frustration, however, Tomb Raider on DS can still be great fun at times - as long as you've got super-human patience and are prepared to squint a lot."
  • Pocket Gamer UK - 40%: "Indeed, so much of what was an otherwise quality adventure has been lost in the transition, this is more like a book of the film where half of the pages have been torn out. Avoid."

JoystiqMetareview: Tomb Raider Legend originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Nov 2006 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsdslitelaracroftmetareviewnintendonintendodsnintendodslitetombraiderThu, 16 Nov 2006 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[DS releases for the week of November 13th]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/13/ds-releases-for-the-week-of-november-13th/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/13/ds-releases-for-the-week-of-november-13th/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/13/ds-releases-for-the-week-of-november-13th/#commentsFiled under:

Big week for handheld gaming! As we creep closer to the end of the year, release dates are just more and more packed with must-have titles. If this keeps up, we may have to consider undertaking a life of crime in order to afford everything we want. What are you picking up this week, and how much ramen are you gonna munch to compensate?

DS releases:
  • Asphalt: Urban GT 2
  • Bionicle Heroes
  • Bomberman Land: Touch!
  • Brain Boost: Beta Wave
  • Brain Boost: Gamma Wave
  • Charlotte's Web
  • Digimon World DS
  • Eragon
  • Final Fantasy III
  • Gunpey
  • Happy Feet
  • Monster Bomber
  • Rayman Raving Rabbids
  • Spider-Man: Battle for New York
  • Tamagotchi Connection: Corner Shop 2
  • Tomb Raider: Legend
  • Totally Spies! 2: Undercover
  • Yoshi's Island 2

GBA releases:
  • Bionicle Heroes
  • Charlotte's Web
  • Eragon
  • F-24: Stealth Fighter
  • Happy Feet
  • March of the Penguins
  • Polarium Advanced
  • Sonic the Hedgehog Genesis
  • Spider-Man: Battle for New York
  • Super Robot Taisen 2
  • Tomb Raider: Legend
  • Tonka on the Job
  • Totally Spies! 2: Undercover
  • Yggdra Union

And don't forget (like you were going to!) -- next week is the first of the global launch dates for the Wii! Then we'll really be awash in Nintendo goodness. As for this week's games, as ever, supplies are subject to manufacturer delivery.

[Big ups to whoever the games in the picture belong to!]

JoystiqDS releases for the week of November 13th originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 Nov 2006 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bionicleeragonffiiiFinal Fantasy IIIFinalFantasyIiigamegunpeyNovember 13November 14November13November14releasesspider-mantomb raiderTombRaiderMon, 13 Nov 2006 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Time Warner looks to grab 10% of SCI]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/23/time-warner-looks-to-grab-10-of-sci/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/23/time-warner-looks-to-grab-10-of-sci/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/23/time-warner-looks-to-grab-10-of-sci/#commentsFiled under:

Media conglomerate Time Warner is looking to purchase a 10 percent stake in developer SCI Entertainment (Tomb Raider, Hitman). According to website The Business, Time Warner initially wanted to buy SCI, but that was lowered to 20% and then halved to 10% of stock.

A complete buyout of SCI may be in the plans for the future; Time Warner executives are "preoccupied with a share buyback and the restructuring of AOL," according to the article. (For sake of full disclosure, Time Warner owns AOL owns Weblogs Inc. owns Joystiq.)

SCI's Tomb Raider franchise was turned into a film franchise by Paramount Pictures, a rival of Time Warner's movie studio Warner Bros. Pictures. Will there be a conflict of interest should a third Tomb Raider movie materialize?

[Via Gamasutra]

JoystiqTime Warner looks to grab 10% of SCI originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Oct 2006 20:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>scitime warnerTimeWarnertomb raiderTombRaiderMon, 23 Oct 2006 20:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Raid tombs with Lara on the PS3!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/28/raid-tombs-with-lara-on-the-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/28/raid-tombs-with-lara-on-the-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/28/raid-tombs-with-lara-on-the-ps3/#commentsFiled under:

Ever since the release of Tomb Raider Legends, Lara Croft has redeemed herself and kept the franchise alive. Since her last iteration was so well-received (selling nearly 3 million copies in a year), Eidos has decided to bring the voluptuous lady to the Playstation 3. Said Chief Executive Jane Cavanagh, "Our 2008 products will include new versions of Tomb Raider (including a PS3 version) and many of our other key franchises. We also plan new franchises, including completely new products from both Crystal Dynamics (developers of Tomb Raider) and Io Interactive (developers of Hitman and Kane & Lynch)." This begs the question, should Nariko (of Heavenly Sword) and Lara get into a Super Smash Sisters: Brawl contest, who do you think would win?

JoystiqRaid tombs with Lara on the PS3! originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Sep 2006 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crystal DynamicsCrystalDynamicsEidosLara CroftLaraCroftPlaystation 3Playstation3PS3SonyTomb RaiderTombRaiderThu, 28 Sep 2006 15:00:00 EST