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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ken-kutaragimarvelous-aqlplaystationps3sonySony-Computer-EntertainmentxseedFri, 10 May 2013 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[XSEED acquires Atlus Online, rebrands as Marvelous USA]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/xseed-acquires-atlus-online-rebrands-as-marvelous-usa/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/xseed-acquires-atlus-online-rebrands-as-marvelous-usa/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/xseed-acquires-atlus-online-rebrands-as-marvelous-usa/#commentsXSEED acquires Atlus Online, rebrands as Marvelous USA
Pandora's Tower publisher XSEED Games announced that it has purchased Atlus Online from Index Digital Media, uniting both companies under the new name Marvelous USA.

The Irvine, California-based Marvelous USA is composed of all employees from the former XSEED Games team. The company hopes to expand its presence in the mobile and online game markets with the Atlus Online purchase. XSEED's Ken Berry will continue to head up the company's localization plans.

"Marvelous USA unifies our US operations under the global Marvelous brand while giving our customers topnotch products and support for both traditional and online social and mobile games," said Marvelous USA president and CEO Shinichi Suzuki. "Our XSEED Games console and PC brand will continue to offer the quality games and service for which it is known, and Marvelous Online gives us expanded reach into mobile and online social gaming markets."

The acquisition and rebranding brings no change to XSEED's current publishing plans.

JoystiqXSEED acquires Atlus Online, rebrands as Marvelous USA originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlus-onlinexseedMon, 06 May 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Killer is Dead trailer features Mondo's girls, EU pinned for August]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/30/killer-is-dead-trailer-features-mondos-girls-eu-pinned-for-aug/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/30/killer-is-dead-trailer-features-mondos-girls-eu-pinned-for-aug/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/30/killer-is-dead-trailer-features-mondos-girls-eu-pinned-for-aug/#comments
If you hadn't gathered yet, from it being a Suda game and including "gigolo missions," the upcoming Killer is Dead features scantily-clad ladies, as does this possibly NSFW video. While the North American release window is still "Summer 2013," Europe and Japan received upgrades to August.

JoystiqKiller is Dead trailer features Mondo's girls, EU pinned for August originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 30 Apr 2013 21:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deep-silvereuropegrasshopper-manufacturekadokawa-gameskiller-is-deadmicrosoftplaystationps3release-datexboxxseedTue, 30 Apr 2013 21:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Killer is Dead screens showcase combat, gigolo missions]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/17/killer-is-dead-screens-showcase-combat-gigolo-missions/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/17/killer-is-dead-screens-showcase-combat-gigolo-missions/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/17/killer-is-dead-screens-showcase-combat-gigolo-missions/#comments Killer is Dead screen showcase combat, gigolo missionsGrasshopper Manufacture games often feature mature content, and Killer is Dead is no exception. These screens feature its 'gigolo missions,' where you travel the world to meet "exotic women" - publisher XSEED's words - as well as some of the crazy-looking combat.

Gallery: Killer is Dead (4/16/13)

JoystiqKiller is Dead screens showcase combat, gigolo missions originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Apr 2013 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deep-silvergrasshopper-manufacturekadokawa-gameskiller-is-deadmicrosoftplaystationps3xboxxseedWed, 17 Apr 2013 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pandora's Tower opens its doors April 16]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/03/pandoras-tower-opens-its-doors-april-16/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/03/pandoras-tower-opens-its-doors-april-16/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/03/pandoras-tower-opens-its-doors-april-16/#comments Pandora's Tower opens its doors April 16The long awaited North American release of Pandora's Tower finally is finally upon us. Publisher XSEED has announced that the Wii RPG will finally launch on April 16 for $40. For those who haven't been keeping track, Pandora's Tower tells the story of a girl cursed to become a monster. The only cure? Munching down pieces of nasty monster flesh. It's a love story.

Continue reading Pandora's Tower opens its doors April 16

JoystiqPandora's Tower opens its doors April 16 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Apr 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ganbarionnintendopandoras-towerrelease-datewiixseedWed, 03 Apr 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Killer Is Dead's second trailer is no less crazy than the first]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/01/killer-is-deads-second-trailer-is-no-less-crazy-than-the-first/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/01/killer-is-deads-second-trailer-is-no-less-crazy-than-the-first/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/01/killer-is-deads-second-trailer-is-no-less-crazy-than-the-first/#comments
The second trailer for Suda51's Killer is Dead includes earth-stealing, giant aliens, and a woman with 16 arms all holding guns, all to the wholly apt backdrop of Wagner's "Flight of the Valkyries."

Killer is Dead is coming to Xbox 360 and PS3 in North America and Europe this summer.

JoystiqKiller Is Dead's second trailer is no less crazy than the first originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 01 Apr 2013 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deep-silvergrasshopper-manufacturekadokawa-gameskiller-is-deadmicrosoftplaystationps3suda-51xboxxseedMon, 01 Apr 2013 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Begin scaling Pandora's Tower in April]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/begin-scaling-pandoras-tower-in-april/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/begin-scaling-pandoras-tower-in-april/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/begin-scaling-pandoras-tower-in-april/#comments
Pandora's Tower, the last game in the original Operation Rainfall campain - and likely the last major Wii retail release, is coming out this April, XSEED revealed.

The new trailer released today details the storyline, and introduces the character Elena, who you fight to save by braving the tower. Somehow, the trailer manages to simultaneously give the story emotional weight, and convey that it's about feeding chunks of twelve giant monsters to a sick girl.

Continue reading Begin scaling Pandora's Tower in April

JoystiqBegin scaling Pandora's Tower in April originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Mar 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nintendopandoras-towerrelease-datewiixseedMon, 11 Mar 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[XSEED brings RPG 'Ark of the Ages' to Android]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/02/xseed-brings-rpg-ark-of-the-ages-to-android/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/02/xseed-brings-rpg-ark-of-the-ages-to-android/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/02/xseed-brings-rpg-ark-of-the-ages-to-android/#comments XSEED RPG Ark of the Ages out on AndroidNiche publisher XSEED xpands to mobile games this week with Android RPG Ark of the Ages. The $2 dungeon RPG takes place in the ancient "Tower of Magic," which you must explore as a knight of the Royal Order.

It combines third-person navigation - using dual (virtual) analog controls to navigate trap-filled spaces - with first-person, swipe-controlled combat. An iPhone version will also be released in "the coming weeks."

Ark of the Ages definitely isn't an anomaly; instead it represents a new business for the publisher. "Mobile games represent a new segment for XSEED Games and are something we are very excited to pursue in 2013," said XSEED president Shinichi Suzuki. "With so many great devices on the market, mobile gaming is becoming more and more appealing to hardcore and casual gamers alike and we are looking forward to bringing fun and innovative new titles to our fans."

Continue reading XSEED brings RPG 'Ark of the Ages' to Android

JoystiqXSEED brings RPG 'Ark of the Ages' to Android originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 02 Mar 2013 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidark-of-the-agesmobilexseedSat, 02 Mar 2013 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[XSEED also releasing Ys: Memories of Celceta, Rune Factory 4, more this year]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/31/xseed-also-releasing-ys-memories-of-celceta-rune-factory-4-mo/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/31/xseed-also-releasing-ys-memories-of-celceta-rune-factory-4-mo/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/31/xseed-also-releasing-ys-memories-of-celceta-rune-factory-4-mo/#comments XSEEDKiller is Dead isn't the only new game announcement out of XSEED. The company randomly decided to reveal a bunch of 2013 releases at once, including the welcome localization of Ys: Memories of Celceta, the first Vita iteration of the long-lived action RPG series. That's coming this fall.

The Vita will also see Valhalla Knights 3 sometime this fall, an action RPG with twenty different job classes for players to equip as they take their parties of seven out on quests.

XSEED is following the successful Steam release of its Ys games with a PC version of Ys I & II Chronicles + in February, a remake of the very first two Ys games. Finally, Rune Factory 4 is due on 3DS this summer, allowing players to choose a male or female protagonist for the first time.

All this is in addition to Pandora's Tower, which was just announced for Wii. XSEED is an industrious little company!

Continue reading XSEED also releasing Ys: Memories of Celceta, Rune Factory 4, more this year

JoystiqXSEED also releasing Ys: Memories of Celceta, Rune Factory 4, more this year originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 31 Jan 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsnintendopcplaystationplaystation-vitarune-factory-4valhalla-knights-3vitaxseedysys-memories-of-celcetaThu, 31 Jan 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Killer is Dead launches worldwide this summer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/31/killer-is-dead-launches-worldwide-this-summer/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/31/killer-is-dead-launches-worldwide-this-summer/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/31/killer-is-dead-launches-worldwide-this-summer/#comments Killer is Dead launches worldwide this summerSuda 51's Killer is Dead is confirmed for a worldwide launch on Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 in summer 2013. XSEED is releasing the Grasshopper Manufacture game in North America, while Deep Silver is bringing it to Europe and Oceania.

True to the developer's form, Killer is Dead stars an assassin taking out criminals in the near future. The hero, Mondo Zappa, brandishes a sword with his right hand and everything from guns to drills with his other, artificial arm.

Today's announcement comes hot on the trail of Grasshopper Manufacture's acquirement by Japanese MMO makers GungHo Online Entertainment. GungHo does have an American publishing branch, but this Grasshopper game won't be the first to take advantage of it.

Update: Killer is Dead will feature both Japanese and English audio on the disc.

Gallery: Killer is Dead (1/31/13)

Continue reading Killer is Dead launches worldwide this summer

JoystiqKiller is Dead launches worldwide this summer originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 31 Jan 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deep-silvergrasshopper-manufacturekadokawa-gameskiller-is-deadmicrosoftplaystationps3suda-51xboxxseedThu, 31 Jan 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pandora's Tower streamlining to NA without a special edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/28/pandoras-tower-streamlining-to-na-without-a-special-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/28/pandoras-tower-streamlining-to-na-without-a-special-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/28/pandoras-tower-streamlining-to-na-without-a-special-edition/#comments Pandora's Tower streamlining to US without a special editionPublisher XSEED isn't looking at bringing out a Pandora's Tower special edition when the game finally reaches North America this spring. The Wii JRPG did get one in Europe, which came with an art book and steel case, but XSEED tweeted that this time around it had to "go a bit more streamlined." That streamlining may still incorporate a reversible cover and manual art, but we'll have to wait and see.

Pandora's Tower is the last of the Operation Rainfall Wii JRPGs to get North American localization, and is now available for pre-order at GameStop, priced $39.99. Its release represents a comprehensive victory for the 2011 grassroots campaign, and we suspect those involved are just happy to see it over here, special edition or no.

JoystiqPandora's Tower streamlining to NA without a special edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Jan 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ganbarionnintendopandoras-towerwiixseedMon, 28 Jan 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[XSEED erecting Pandora's Tower for Wii in NA this spring]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/16/xseed-erecting-pandoras-tower-for-wii-in-na-this-spring/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/16/xseed-erecting-pandoras-tower-for-wii-in-na-this-spring/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/16/xseed-erecting-pandoras-tower-for-wii-in-na-this-spring/#comments
Publisher XSEED has come to the rescue for American Wii owners again. Once thought lost to the dungeons of Nintendo localization, XSEED will bring Pandora's Tower to North America this spring. Pandora's Tower tells the story of a hero tasked with saving a young girl from a terrible curse. The only cure: feeding her lots of freshly slain monster flesh. Check out the trailer above (made for the European release last year), for the gritty, nasty details.

Last year, to the dismay of many fans, Nintendo infamously stated it had "no plans" to localize three major Japanese Wii RPGs, The Last Story, Pandora's Tower and Xenoblade Chronicles (though it did eventually localize the latter). Now it seems XSEED has made a habit of snatching up discarded Nintendo properties in North America, last year localizing The Last Story, which went on to be its most successful game ever.

Continue reading XSEED erecting Pandora's Tower for Wii in NA this spring

JoystiqXSEED erecting Pandora's Tower for Wii in NA this spring originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Jan 2013 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nintendooperation-rainfallpandoras-towerrelease-datewiixseedWed, 16 Jan 2013 17:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Corpse Party: Book of Shadows haunts PSN next week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/09/corpse-party-book-of-shadows-haunts-psn-next-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/09/corpse-party-book-of-shadows-haunts-psn-next-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/09/corpse-party-book-of-shadows-haunts-psn-next-week/#comments
Corpse Party spins off into a series of new, smaller Corpse Parties next week, when the follow-up to last year's PSP game launches on PSN. Corpse Party: Book of Shadows is a set of short stories set in the franchise's universe, each focusing on different characters as, if the first game is any indication, they get tortured relentlessly by ghosts.

On the PlayStation Blog, XSEED localization specialist and professional Corpse Partier Tom Lipschultz introduces each of the stories, so you can get an idea about all the unfortunate kids you'll be putting through hell when you play the game.

Continue reading Corpse Party: Book of Shadows haunts PSN next week

JoystiqCorpse Party: Book of Shadows haunts PSN next week originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Jan 2013 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>corpse-partycorpse-party-book-of-shadowsplaystationplaystation-vitapspsonyvitaxseedWed, 09 Jan 2013 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Unchained Blades sequel a 'maybe' in US after the first gets on 3DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/27/unchained-blades-sequel-a-maybe-in-us-after-the-first-gets-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/27/unchained-blades-sequel-a-maybe-in-us-after-the-first-gets-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/27/unchained-blades-sequel-a-maybe-in-us-after-the-first-gets-on/#comments Unchained Blades sequel being contemplated by XSEEDUnchained Blades is due for the 3DS in December, "hopefully," XSEED writes on its Facebook page. After that launch, XSEED might start localizing the sequel, Unchained Blades EXXIV, for western audiences.

"We're still struggling to get the original out on 3DS first," XSEED writes. "After that's finally out the door (hopefully December), then maybe we can start thinking about the sequel."

Unchained Blades hit PSP on June 26, for $30, and it is available now on the Vita via the PlayStation Store.

JoystiqUnchained Blades sequel a 'maybe' in US after the first gets on 3DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 Nov 2012 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsnintendoplaystationplaystation-vitapspsonyunchained-bladesunchained-blades-exxivvitaxseedTue, 27 Nov 2012 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Last Story is XSEED's most successful game, and now it's cheaper]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/20/the-last-story-is-xseeds-most-successful-game-and-now-its-che/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/20/the-last-story-is-xseeds-most-successful-game-and-now-its-che/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/20/the-last-story-is-xseeds-most-successful-game-and-now-its-che/#comments The Last Story is XSEED's most successful gameThe Last Story was released in North America by XSEED, after original publisher Nintendo decided to skip it. Nintendo's lack of interest turned out to be a boon for XSEED: today, Executive Vice President Ken Berry revealed that the RPG "has become our most successful title to date." XSEED declined to offer specific sales numbers.

In response to this success - and to the selling out of the original printing - XSEED is now shipping a standard edition that lacks the art book and special packaging from the original release. It's also cheaper, at a $29.99 MSRP. The MSRP on any remaining "premium" versions is now $40. If you need a cheap game to go with your Wii U, don't forget about the backward compatibility for stuff like this!

Continue reading The Last Story is XSEED's most successful game, and now it's cheaper

JoystiqThe Last Story is XSEED's most successful game, and now it's cheaper originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Nov 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ken-berrynintendosalesthe-last-storywiixseedTue, 20 Nov 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Orgarhythm review: Laying down godlike beats]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/02/orgarhythm-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/02/orgarhythm-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/02/orgarhythm-review/#comments If it's possible to have a favorite "type" of game - not genre, mind you, but favorite "type" - I'd have to say that the games I love most are "ambitious but imperfect." These are games that try to do intriguing, daring things: meld genres together, build themselves around an interesting theme, tell a story in an unconventional manner. Often they run into more than a few technical and design hiccups, perhaps because the developers' ambitions outstripped their team's capability to realize them. But in spite of their flaws, there's something secretly awesome about them that makes wrestling with all their foibles worth it.

Having read all that, you've probably already guessed that Orgarhythm falls into this category. It's a bizarre mix of god-sim, rhythm game, and RTS that mostly - mostly - works. When it shines brightest, it's a fabulous and unique experience.

Gallery: Orgarhythm (10/23/12)

Continue reading Orgarhythm review: Laying down godlike beats

JoystiqOrgarhythm review: Laying down godlike beats originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Nov 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acquireorgarhythmplaystationplaystation-vitavitaxseedFri, 02 Nov 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Checkpoint sues Marvelous AQL, claiming 'hostile takeover' plan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/01/report-checkpoint-sues-marvelous-aql-claiming-hostile-takeove/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/01/report-checkpoint-sues-marvelous-aql-claiming-hostile-takeove/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/01/report-checkpoint-sues-marvelous-aql-claiming-hostile-takeove/#comments Report Checkpoint sues Marvelous AQL, claiming 'hostile takeover' planGame studio Checkpoint has filed suit against Marvelous AQL, claiming that the Japanese publisher attempted to take over Checkpoint in an effort to avoid a $2.5 million payout. The suit names Marvelous, XSEED, a former Checkpoint employee, and others on breach of contract, theft of trade secrets, and more.

According to Gamasutra's summary of the case, Marvelous made a deal in 2011 through which it would pay $2.5 million in exchange for 35 percent of Checkpoint and two shipped games. Following the release of those two games, AviNation and Party Politics, the two companies planned a similar $2.5 million arrangement for two more games.

However, Checkpoint CEO Brian Wiklem alleged in the suit that chief technical officer Christopher Masterton, owner of 24 percent of Checkpoint, met with Marvelous to sell his own shares and give Marvelous control of the company without Wiklem's consent. Marvelous then hired Masterton and 14 other Checkpoint staffers to work at XSEED. Masterton is now technical lead.

Furthermore, the suit claims, the former Checkpoint staff are now using Checkpoint tech at XSEED, and Masterton refuses to hand over the logins for Checkpoint's Facebook page and other accounts. We've asked MAQL for comment.

JoystiqReport: Checkpoint sues Marvelous AQL, claiming 'hostile takeover' plan originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 01 Nov 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>checkpoint-studioslawsuitmarvelousmarvelous-aqlpcxseedThu, 01 Nov 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Corpse Party: Book of Shadows terrifies PSP this winter]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/22/corpse-party-book-of-shadows-terrifies-psp-this-winter/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/22/corpse-party-book-of-shadows-terrifies-psp-this-winter/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/22/corpse-party-book-of-shadows-terrifies-psp-this-winter/#comments
Corpse Party, the most surprisingly disturbing PSP game, is getting a sequel in North America this winter, and Europe "shortly thereafter." Corpse Party: Book of Shadows is a collection of eight self-contained scenarios in the Corpse Party universe, also for PSP, and also released exclusively as a download.

"Some of them help fill in the blanks of what happened during crucial off-camera scenes from the original game," XSEED localization specialist Tom Lipschultz said on the PlayStation Blog. "Others go into the back-story of various characters, helping to flesh them out and make their roles in the series mythos a bit clearer. Still others ask 'what if?,' presenting an alternate version of events from the first game in which characters who previously died are kept alive and given a fleeting chance to stay that way." One final chapter acts as a direct sequel to the events in the previous game.

Speaking of the previous game, XSEED is putting Corpse Party on sale for $9.99 for two weeks starting with tomorrow's PS Store update. If you're looking for spooky (Vita-compatible) adventure this Halloween, we recommend it.

JoystiqCorpse Party: Book of Shadows terrifies PSP this winter originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 22 Oct 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>corpse-party-book-of-shadowsplaystationplaystation-vitapsnpspsonyvitaxseedMon, 22 Oct 2012 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Orgarhythm out on October 23 on Vita]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/09/orgarhythm-out-on-october-23-on-vita/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/09/orgarhythm-out-on-october-23-on-vita/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/09/orgarhythm-out-on-october-23-on-vita/#comments Orgarhythm out on October 23 on VitaYet more PSN games in October! The latest is XSEED's Orgarhythm for Vita, a game that mixes up Pikmin-esque crowd control strategy with rhythm gameplay, arrives in North America on October 23, publisher XSEED announced. The PSN-exclusive game will retail for $29.99.

If you're desperately trying to understand how such a combination could work, allow us to point you to our E3 preview. We were confused as well until then.

Gallery: Orgarhythm (10/9/12)

Continue reading Orgarhythm out on October 23 on Vita

JoystiqOrgarhythm out on October 23 on Vita originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Oct 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Orgarhythmplaystationplaystation-vitarelease-datevitaxseedTue, 09 Oct 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Former Atlus president now in charge at XSEED]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/07/former-atlus-president-now-in-charge-at-xseed/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/07/former-atlus-president-now-in-charge-at-xseed/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/07/former-atlus-president-now-in-charge-at-xseed/#comments Former Atlus president now in charge at XSEEDXSEED, publisher of games such as Unchained Blades and Orgarhythm, recently announced Shinichi Suzuki as its new President and CEO. Suzuki stepped down as CEO of Atlus North America in August.

"This is an exciting time for the industry and our company, and I look forward to navigating a course of success through the exciting changes in store as we advance XSEED's publishing efforts by bringing even more highly anticipated titles to market across multiple platforms," Suzuki said in a press release.

XSEED also announced that Ken Berry, founding member of the company, has been promoted to Executive Vice President.

Continue reading Former Atlus president now in charge at XSEED

JoystiqFormer Atlus president now in charge at XSEED originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 07 Oct 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Atlusken-berryShinichi-SuzukixseedSun, 07 Oct 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The last trailer you see before you realize The Last Story is out]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/14/the-last-trailer-you-see-before-you-realize-the-last-story-is-ou/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/14/the-last-trailer-you-see-before-you-realize-the-last-story-is-ou/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/14/the-last-trailer-you-see-before-you-realize-the-last-story-is-ou/#comments The Last Story of launch media
Finally, after all the anticipation, petitioning, and weird fan campaigns, The Last Story arrives on Wii in North America today, published by XSEED. See why so many people were so anxious to get a chance to play it in this launch trailer.

JoystiqThe last trailer you see before you realize The Last Story is out originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Aug 2012 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nintendothe-last-storywiixseedTue, 14 Aug 2012 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Way of the Samurai 4 comes overseas to PS3 August 21]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/04/way-of-the-samurai-4-comes-overseas-to-ps3-august-21/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/04/way-of-the-samurai-4-comes-overseas-to-ps3-august-21/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/04/way-of-the-samurai-4-comes-overseas-to-ps3-august-21/#comments Way of the Samurai 4 finds its way to PS3 August 21Way of the Samurai 4 will let you create a ronin and explore post-isolationist Japan starting August 21 in North America. The PSN-exclusive PS3 game will be available for $39.99.

While the premise is all about joining up with the shogunate, the isolationists, or the new immigrants, and experiencing the power struggles between the three groups, we're fairly confident the moment-to-moment gameplay is going to have more to do with swordin'.

Speaking of which, you'll be able to upload your created character for distribution in others' games, as a wandering, AI-controlled assassin. Other players' characters will roam your game, offering up items to anyone who can defeat them.

Gallery: Way of the Samurai 4 (8/2/12)

Continue reading Way of the Samurai 4 comes overseas to PS3 August 21

JoystiqWay of the Samurai 4 comes overseas to PS3 August 21 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 04 Aug 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstationps3psnrelease-dateway-of-the-samurai-4xseedSat, 04 Aug 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Last Story finally comes to North America on Aug. 14]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/11/the-last-story-finally-comes-to-north-america-on-aug-14/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/11/the-last-story-finally-comes-to-north-america-on-aug-14/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/11/the-last-story-finally-comes-to-north-america-on-aug-14/#comments The Last Story finally comes to North America August 14XSEED has announced an August 14 release date for Mistwalker's anticipated, petitioned-for Wii role-playing game, The Last Story.

All launch copies will include an art book; in addition to that, XSEED revealed the above soundtrack disc as a pre-order bonus from Amazon, GameStop and EB Canada. That's some deluxe treatment for what is sure to be one of the last big Wii games, and it seems to deserve the attention.

JoystiqThe Last Story finally comes to North America on Aug. 14 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Jul 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Mistwalkernintendopre-order-bonusrelease-datesoundtrackthe-last-storywiixseedWed, 11 Jul 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[XSEED lets loose Unchained Blades on PSP next week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/20/xseed-lets-loose-unchained-blades-on-psp-next-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/20/xseed-lets-loose-unchained-blades-on-psp-next-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/20/xseed-lets-loose-unchained-blades-on-psp-next-week/#comments Unchained Blades launches on PSP next weekYour first chance to check out XSEED's localized version of the RPG Unchained Blades will be very soon - and on PSP. The PSP version of FuRyu's RPG, created by Lunar and Grandia vets, will be released on PSN June 26, for $29.99. XSEED was unable to confirm whether the game would be Vita-compatible, or available through the Vita store, at launch - a reminder that the Vita's PSP compatibility is not 100% for some reason, and not even all of the Vita-compatible PSP games are available through the Vita's PlayStation Store.

The 3DS version, announced concurrently, is due sometime later in 2012, also as a download.

Gallery: Unchained Blades (6/20/12)

Continue reading XSEED lets loose Unchained Blades on PSP next week

JoystiqXSEED lets loose Unchained Blades on PSP next week originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Jun 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstationpsnpsprelease-datesonyunchained-bladesxseedWed, 20 Jun 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Orgarhythm combines rhythm and strategy into one weird game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/14/orgarhythm-combines-rhythm-and-strategy-into-one-weird-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/14/orgarhythm-combines-rhythm-and-strategy-into-one-weird-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/14/orgarhythm-combines-rhythm-and-strategy-into-one-weird-game/#comments Orgarhythm combines rhythm and strategy into one weird gamePikmin 3 might have been the best-known crowd-control strategy game at E3, but it wasn't the most memorable. That distinction goes to Orgarhythm, a Vita game demonstrated to me during a meeting with publisher XSEED.

Orgarhythm mashes up two of the least mashuppable genres imaginable: rhythm game and strategy. Players control a giant, strutting god who follows a predetermined path through each level. The god has the ability to direct elemental troops, representing earth, water, and fire, to fight enemy troops who are also elemental, being sure to attack with the element that those enemies are weak against. Each element has multiple attack options, including melee, ranged, and even a catapult attack to affect enemies on a higher plane.

Continue reading Orgarhythm combines rhythm and strategy into one weird game

JoystiqOrgarhythm combines rhythm and strategy into one weird game originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Jun 2012 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acquiree3-2012neiloOrgarhythmplaystationplaystation-vitavitaxseedThu, 14 Jun 2012 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[The creative maturity of Hironobu Sakaguchi's Last Story]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/the-creative-maturity-of-hironobu-sakaguchis-last-story/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/the-creative-maturity-of-hironobu-sakaguchis-last-story/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/the-creative-maturity-of-hironobu-sakaguchis-last-story/#comments There must be a fascinating behind-the-scenes story as to how XSEED managed to get a hold of the localization rights for The Last Story. Ordinarily, Nintendo has a death grip on the rights to its games: If they don't localize it, no one does. XSEED, for their part, say they "got lucky."

The Last Story is the most recent RPG by Final Fantasy creator Hironobu Sakaguchi, as well as the natural companion to Xenoblade Chronicles, which arrived last month. Both headlined last year's Operation Rainfall petition, along with Pandora's Tower, forever joining them at the hip. Much like Monolith Soft's opus Chronicles, Sakaguchi seems determined to say something new about the genre he once helped create.

Gallery: The Last Story (Nintendo Conference 2010)

Continue reading The creative maturity of Hironobu Sakaguchi's Last Story

JoystiqThe creative maturity of Hironobu Sakaguchi's Last Story originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 May 2012 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AQ-InteractiveHironobu-SakaguchiMistwalkernintendothe-last-storywiiXSEEDWed, 09 May 2012 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Ragnarok Odyssey journeying to North American Vitas sometime this year]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/05/ragnarok-odyssey-journeying-to-north-american-vitas-sometime-thi/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/05/ragnarok-odyssey-journeying-to-north-american-vitas-sometime-thi/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/05/ragnarok-odyssey-journeying-to-north-american-vitas-sometime-thi/#comments ImageIn addition to bringing Orgarhythm stateside sometime before the end of this calendar year, XSEED has also announced equally nebulous plans to localize Ragnarok Odyssey for North American audiences and their Vitas. This follows the game's Japanese release last February, though how closely it'll follow remains to be seen.

Set in the same world as Ragnarok Online, Odyssey is a Monster Hunter-esque runabout wherein the player's (fully customizable) character traverses the world, hunting "monsters and giants" as they do so. Players can choose from six different job classes, switching between missions when necessary, and play cooperatively either online or via local ad-hoc network, the later of which supports up to four players at a time.

Continue reading Ragnarok Odyssey journeying to North American Vitas sometime this year

JoystiqRagnarok Odyssey journeying to North American Vitas sometime this year originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 05 May 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Game-ArtsGungHo-Online-Entertainmentplaystationplaystation-vitaragnarok-odysseyvitaXSEEDSat, 05 May 2012 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[XSEED announces rhythm/strategy title 'Orgarhythm' for Vita]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/05/xseed-announces-rhythm-strategy-title-orgarhythm-for-vita/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/05/xseed-announces-rhythm-strategy-title-orgarhythm-for-vita/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/05/xseed-announces-rhythm-strategy-title-orgarhythm-for-vita/#comments Image
Move over Theatrhythm, there's a new absurdly titled and unpronounceable handheld rhythm game in town: Orgarhythm. Developed by Acquire (in association with Neilo) and set to be published in North America by XSEED sometime this year, Orgarhythm is a hybrid rhythm/strategy game for the Vita.

Acting as the God of Light, players do battle against the diametrically named God of Darkness by commanding armies of elementally-themed soldiers. The game's soundtrack, described as "a hypnotic mix of rock, club and tribal music," affects how and when your units attack, with the beat of the music acting as a quantifiable resource to be spent on stronger attacks. The music also dynamically alters itself depending on the circumstances of the battle, adding additional layers of complexity as more troops enter the fray.

As implied by the rather artsy trailer above, commanding your army is handled entirely by the Vita's touchscreen - tapping to select troops, swiping to direct them towards the desired target, etc. Said troops also have a Pokemon-esque relationship with the enemy, due to the fact that every unit is either an Earth, water or fire-type, with all the inferred weaknesses and strengths you'd expect from such a system.

Eventual DLC is mentioned by the press release tucked away after the break, but no specific plans are actually outlined. If you're an aspiring musician, however, take note: XSEED will be looking for independent artists sometime in the near future to bolstier Orgarhythm's aural catalog.

Gallery: Orgarhythm (Announcement)

Continue reading XSEED announces rhythm/strategy title 'Orgarhythm' for Vita

JoystiqXSEED announces rhythm/strategy title 'Orgarhythm' for Vita originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 05 May 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AcquireNeiloOrgarhythmplaystationplaystation-vitaRhythmstrategyvitaXSEEDSat, 05 May 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Grand Knights History won't be published by XSEED, 'development resources' noted]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/02/grand-knights-history-wont-be-published-by-xseed-development/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/02/grand-knights-history-wont-be-published-by-xseed-development/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/02/grand-knights-history-wont-be-published-by-xseed-development/#comments XSEED Games announced late yesterday that it will not publish turn-based RPG Grand Knights History in North America as previously announced.

"Unfortunately, it was determined that development resources required to localize the game were not available, necessitating its cancellation," the official statement from XSEED sent to Joystiq reads. "We regret not being able to bring the game to our fans, but we are committed to our 2012 lineup and look forward to sharing more on these games in the coming weeks and months."

Vanillaware, the developer of eye candy like Muramasa: The Demon Blade, Odin Sphere and the upcoming Dragon's Crown; will still see Grand Knights History published on PSP later this year in Europe by Rising Star Games.

Gallery: Grand Knights History (PSP)

JoystiqGrand Knights History won't be published by XSEED, 'development resources' noted originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 May 2012 07:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>grand-knights-historyplaystationpspsonyvanillawareXSEEDWed, 02 May 2012 07:30:00 EST<![CDATA[XSEED bringing Way of the Samurai 4 to North America as a digital PS3 release]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/04/xseed-bringing-way-of-the-samurai-4-to-north-america-as-a-digita/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/04/xseed-bringing-way-of-the-samurai-4-to-north-america-as-a-digita/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/04/xseed-bringing-way-of-the-samurai-4-to-north-america-as-a-digita/#comments ImageThe last Way of the Samurai game had two publishers on two different platforms in North America. Way of the Samurai 4 has just one publisher -- and it's neither of the previous companies. XSEED is taking on publishing duties for the PS3-exclusive action adventure, opting to release it digitally on PSN.

Players take the role of a masterless samurai in the period immediately after Japan opened its borders to foreign trade. In this changing Japan, your customizable character can get involved with three factions: the shogunate, Prajna isolationists, or the new foreign occupants. Or you can just hang out in a dainty little dress, apparently.

Gallery: Way of the Samurai 4 (PS3)

Continue reading XSEED bringing Way of the Samurai 4 to North America as a digital PS3 release

JoystiqXSEED bringing Way of the Samurai 4 to North America as a digital PS3 release originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Apr 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstationps3psnway-of-the-samurai-4xseedWed, 04 Apr 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Unchained Blades going to 3DS and PSP as a digital release]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/unchained-blades-going-to-3ds-and-psp-as-a-digital-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/unchained-blades-going-to-3ds-and-psp-as-a-digital-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/unchained-blades-going-to-3ds-and-psp-as-a-digital-release/#comments
Over the weekend, we reported that XSEED was localizing Unchained Blades as a 3DS download. The publisher officially announced the title today, revealing that it's actually localizing both the 3DS and PSP versions of FuRyu's dungeon RPG, for digital release. It's an oddly fruitful day for first-person dungeon RPGs!

XSEED talked up the old-school Game Arts cred of the game, which is directed by Lunar writer Toshio Akashi and features a story by Grandia's Takashi Hino. That story involves a group of monster people ("cowardly golem prince," "medusa priestess," etc., all designed by different artists) questing to win back the transformative power of a "dragon emperor."

Gallery: Unchained Blades (3DS/PSP)

Continue reading Unchained Blades going to 3DS and PSP as a digital release

JoystiqUnchained Blades going to 3DS and PSP as a digital release originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Mar 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dseshopfuryunintendoplaystationpspsonyunchained-bladesxseedWed, 28 Mar 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA['Unchained Blades' coming to 3DS eShop via XSEED]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/24/unchained-blades-coming-to-3ds-eshop-via-xseed/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/24/unchained-blades-coming-to-3ds-eshop-via-xseed/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/24/unchained-blades-coming-to-3ds-eshop-via-xseed/#comments This is going to sound pretty weird, because it involves clues to something you likely don't remember or know. The short version: Nintendo Power's table of contents reveals a game called "Unchained Blades" for 3DS, as a download.

The long version: this is the reveal of something publisher XSEED was cryptically teasing yesterday, with a series of images on Twitter including a Tyrannosaurus Rex, a blade of grass, and a still from Ghost's famous pottery wheel scene. And now you're confused.

It's now clear that the clues refer to the dungeon crawler released in Japan as UnchainBlades Rexx. (get it: "Unchained" Melody plus "blade" of grass plus T. "Rex.") It was a retail game over there, but being in Nintendo Power's "Download" section suggests that XSEED is improving the distribution method along with the name.

Joystiq'Unchained Blades' coming to 3DS eShop via XSEED originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 24 Mar 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dseshopnintendonintendo-powerunchainblades-rexxunchained-bladesxseedSat, 24 Mar 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[XSEED Games Ys-es into Steam market]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/xseed-games-ys-es-into-steam-market/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/xseed-games-ys-es-into-steam-market/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/xseed-games-ys-es-into-steam-market/#comments XSEED is beginning to publish PC games for Steam, starting with a pair of Ys remakes. Ys: The Oath in Felghana will be available for purchase on March 19 for $14.99. It's coming out a while after the PSP version here, but in Japan this PC release predated the PSP by about five years.

Perhaps even more exciting is Ys Origin, a prequel game that never got an official English release. XSEED plans to put that out on Steam at a later date.

If you've never played an Ys game before, think old-school Zelda with more storyline. And even though Felghana is technically the third game in the storyline, you won't be lost if you jump in there. Basically, all you need to know is that Adol Christin is a really nice guy who will solve everyone's problems and kill everyone's monsters.

Gallery: Ys: The Oath in Felghana

Gallery: Ys Origin

Continue reading XSEED Games Ys-es into Steam market

JoystiqXSEED Games Ys-es into Steam market originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Mar 2012 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>falcompcq1-2012release-datesteamxseedys-originys-the-oath-in-felghanaTue, 13 Mar 2012 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Sumioni: Demon Arts drawn to digital Vita release March 20]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/02/sumioni-demon-arts-drawn-to-digital-vita-release-march-20/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/02/sumioni-demon-arts-drawn-to-digital-vita-release-march-20/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/02/sumioni-demon-arts-drawn-to-digital-vita-release-march-20/#comments Looking for the next lovely thing to gawk at on your Vita's crazy screen? XSEED announced today that the sumi-e inspired action game Sumioni: Demon Arts will be available in North America on March 20. The PSN-exclusive release will sell for $19.99.

The gorgeous ink-style vistas, touchscreen platform painting, and summonable "inkgods" will be included at launch, of course, as well multiple endings. Less essential features like leaderboards and extra DLC will be released later.

Gallery: Sumioni: Demon Arts (3/2/12)

Continue reading Sumioni: Demon Arts drawn to digital Vita release March 20

JoystiqSumioni: Demon Arts drawn to digital Vita release March 20 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>oni-ink-sumioniplaystationplaystation-vitaq1-2012release-datesumioni-demon-artsvitaxseedFri, 02 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hironobu Sakaguchi made this Last Story trailer for you]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/hironobu-sakaguchi-made-this-last-story-trailer-for-you/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/hironobu-sakaguchi-made-this-last-story-trailer-for-you/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/hironobu-sakaguchi-made-this-last-story-trailer-for-you/#comments
If you've been ignoring The Last Story because you didn't want to get interested in a game you'd never be able to play, well, it's time to start watching trailers. And there's no better place to start than with this European trailer directed by Mistwalker's Hironobu Sakaguchi himself.

Like the European release of Xenoblade Chronicles, this version of The Last Story has quite British voice acting. American publisher XSEED hasn't made any announcements about how it would handle voice recording, but we expect to hear the same accents when the North American version shows up this summer.

JoystiqHironobu Sakaguchi made this Last Story trailer for you originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Feb 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Hironobu-SakaguchiMistwalkernintendothe-last-storywiixseedFri, 24 Feb 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[XSEED inks publishing deal for Vita platformer Sumioni: Demon Arts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/17/xseed-inks-publishing-deal-for-vita-platformer-sumioni-demon-ar/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/17/xseed-inks-publishing-deal-for-vita-platformer-sumioni-demon-ar/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/17/xseed-inks-publishing-deal-for-vita-platformer-sumioni-demon-ar/#comments
XSEED is one of the most doggedly prolific PSP publishers, and it's continuing the trend with the Vita, announcing plans to publish Acquire's Sumioni: Demon Arts this spring in North America.

Sumioni casts the player as an "ink demon," fighting through a sumi-e landscape. It combines traditional button controls for locomotion and combat, and touchscreen-based drawing to make new platforms, summon fire and lightning, and perform other feats. It's also, like, way pretty.

You don't need us to tell you that! Gawk at the above trailer and see for yourself. Thanks, XSEED, for localizing one of the more interesting Japanese Vita launch games! It's not like we can just buy it from PSN in Japan.

Continue reading XSEED inks publishing deal for Vita platformer Sumioni: Demon Arts

JoystiqXSEED inks publishing deal for Vita platformer Sumioni: Demon Arts originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 17 Dec 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acquireplaystationplaystation-vitarelease-datespring-2012sumionisumioni-demon-artsvitaxseedSat, 17 Dec 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Portabliss: Corpse Party (PSP)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/09/portabliss-corpse-party-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/09/portabliss-corpse-party-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/09/portabliss-corpse-party-psp/#comments Did you know that you can download handheld games now? That's amazingly convenient! The only inconvenient part of it is finding the right games to buy -- and that's where we come in, with our Portabliss column. In each installment, we'll tell you about a downloadable game on the iPhone, iPad, Android device, DSi, 3DS, PSP, etc. Today: Corpse Party.
Technically, Corpse Party is a full-sized PSP game that just happens to be PSN-only, but it is a downloadable portable game, so I'm using this column as a convenient venue to talk about it. Because it is really, really cool. It may look cutesy and SNES-like, but the cognitive dissonance between that presentation and what is happening only serves to amplify the profound wrongness of every single moment of this game.

Continue reading Portabliss: Corpse Party (PSP)

JoystiqPortabliss: Corpse Party (PSP) originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 Dec 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>corpse-partyplaystationportablisspsnpspsonyteam-grisgrisxseedFri, 09 Dec 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Corpse Party starts boogeyin' this November]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/corpse-party-starts-boogeyin-this-november/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/corpse-party-starts-boogeyin-this-november/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/corpse-party-starts-boogeyin-this-november/#comments
On today of all days, the haunt of all haunts, Corpse Party publisher XSEED chose to announce a November launch for its upcoming download-only PSP horror title. And while XSEED is "sorry to have missed Halloween," this carton of rotten eggs we plan on throwing in the company's general direction just isn't hearing it, frankly.

At very least, the publisher has a decent explanation for the missed opportunity. "We wanted to make certain everything was perfect," a statement from XSEED localization specialist Tom Lipschultz on the US PlayStation Blog reads. He unfortunately didn't nail down a solid date for the game's launch, but did drop a brand new trailer, as seen above.

JoystiqCorpse Party starts boogeyin' this November originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 31 Oct 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>corpse-partyplaystationpspq4-2011release-datesonyteam-grisgristom-lipschultzxseedMon, 31 Oct 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The best JRPG you haven't played yet]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/28/the-best-jrpg-you-havent-played-yet/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/28/the-best-jrpg-you-havent-played-yet/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/28/the-best-jrpg-you-havent-played-yet/#commentsThis is a column by Jason Schreier dedicated to the analysis (and occasional mocking) of his favorite genre, the Japanese role-playing game. Whether it's because they're too antiquated or just too niche, he believes JRPGs don't get enough attention in the gaming industry today. It's time to change that.
Every good game has moments of euphoria, those revelatory points in an interactive adventure when we realize just how much fun we're having. They're different for everyone - some of us might be enamored by a combat system or nutty plot twist while others might find themselves romantically attracted to a main character's hair spikes - but everybody feels them.

These moments are usually short and ephemeral, showing up every once in a while just to remind us that we're enjoying ourselves. As a general rule, the more time we spend thinking "Wow, this is great," the better the game. When something really blows us away, we're aware of it the whole time.

Few JRPGs blow me away nowadays. For a while, I figured this was because I am cranky and cynical. Maybe this genre just isn't for me anymore, I thought to myself. Maybe I'll never enjoy Japanese role-playing games as much as I did when I was growing up. Maybe I'll never reignite that bliss I felt when I first delved into games like Suikoden and Xenogears. Maybe I'm too old.

Then I played The Legend of Heroes: Trails in the Sky.

Gallery: The Legend of Heroes: Trails in the Sky (PSP)

Continue reading The best JRPG you haven't played yet

JoystiqThe best JRPG you haven't played yet originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 28 Oct 2011 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>columnjrpgnihon-falcomplaystationpspsonythe-legend-of-heroes-trails-in-the-skyxseedFri, 28 Oct 2011 16:55:00 EST<![CDATA[More details on XSEED's disturbing Corpse Party]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/09/more-details-on-xseeds-disturbing-corpse-party/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/09/more-details-on-xseeds-disturbing-corpse-party/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/09/more-details-on-xseeds-disturbing-corpse-party/#comments
The first announcement and trailer for XSEED's localization of Corpse Party focused on squicking us out with the game's premise -- a haunted elementary school filled with dead children -- but what about the actual game through which the squick is delivered?

On the PlayStation Blog, XSEED Localization Specialist and chief Corpse Party booster Tom Lipschultz offered more detail on the gameplay. Corpse Party is a "horror adventure game" divided into five chapters, each focusing on a small group of characters trying to escape from the school. Rather than a "visual novel" style (like 999), "most of the game is fully interactive, allowing you to walk around and explore Heavenly Host Elementary as you see fit, carefully examining objects and piecing together the sordid history of the school at every turn."

You'll have to make decisions about what to do, which could lead to a "bad" ending. At other times, you'll have to move quickly to escape a pursuing ghost or leave a trapped room, or you risk joining the party.

JoystiqMore details on XSEED's disturbing Corpse Party originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 09 Oct 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>corpse-partyplaystationpspsonyxseedSun, 09 Oct 2011 12:30:00 EST