Joystiq

Alpha Protocol is the new Deus Ex

Rowan Kaiser — Fri, 08 Feb 2013 18:00:00 EST

This is a weekly column from freelancer Rowan Kaiser, which focuses on "Western" role-playing games: their stories, their histories, their mechanics, their insanity, and their inanity.

Alpha Protocol is the new Deus Ex. This may seem like a strong statement, given the original Deus Ex's regard as an all-time great, but that wasn't always the case. Time has been very kind to it, and Alpha Protocol seems perfectly positioned to undergo a similar process. Both games' weaknesses are transparent, and both games' strengths point toward the future of video games.

When Deus Ex was released a little over a decade ago, I remember reading a review in Computer Gaming World, which gave it 3.5 stars out of 5. CGW justified that score by pointing out glaring flaws with Deus Ex, primarily its ugly graphics and pathetic artificial intelligence. I remember that review specifically because, a month or two later, they printed a letter to the editor that said roughly "I was going to get angry because I obsessed about the game for two weeks, but as I started writing I realized your criticisms were entirely valid." This, to me, strikes at the very core of what makes a cult classic: a general, all-encompassing analysis may find obvious flaws that prevent full-throated praise, but for those who can forgive those flaws, the strengths aren't done better anywhere else.

Gallery: Alpha Protocol

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Alpha Protocol is the new Deus Ex originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Feb 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Obsidian Entertainment: Playing in other people's worlds

Mike Schramm — Fri, 25 Feb 2011 17:51:00 EST

Obsidian Entertainment has no shortage of street cred -- its founders originally created Interplay's Black Isle Studios, and put together some of the most classic PC RPGs around, including the original Fallout, Planescape: Torment, and the Icewind Dale series. But since forming Obsidian in 2003 (and making Knights of the Old Republic 2, Fallout: New Vegas, and most recently, Dungeon Siege 3), Feargus Urquhart and his crew have created another reputation: That of building sequels for properties created by other studios. "Correct," he tells Joystiq in a recent interview, as if fessing up to being called a "sequel house."

If there's a connotation associated with that term, Urquhart doesn't really care. "What I grew up on was obviously roleplaying games that had the fifth and the sixth and the eight and the twelfth," he says. "So I think in general, RPGs have a lot of sequels, because you can keep on adding on to the world, you can keep on coming up with new stories. I think from that perspective, it's great to be able to make these, even if they're sequels, because you get to go play in someone else's world."

Continue reading Obsidian Entertainment: Playing in other people's worlds

Obsidian Entertainment: Playing in other people's worlds originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 Feb 2011 17:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Today's Steam Holiday Sale discounts Mass Effects, Dead Rising 2 and more

David Hinkle — Thu, 23 Dec 2010 17:50:00 EST

It's another day and you know what that means: more ludicrous Steam deals. Today's highlights include 50% off both Mass Effect and Mass Effect 2, along with reduced prices on Blur, Alpha Protocol, Dead Rising 2 and many more. Hit the jump for the full list.

Continue reading Today's Steam Holiday Sale discounts Mass Effects, Dead Rising 2 and more

Today's Steam Holiday Sale discounts Mass Effects, Dead Rising 2 and more originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Dec 2010 17:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Civilization 5, Vanquish and more struck by Amazon Lightning sales today

Griffin McElroy — Mon, 22 Nov 2010 10:36:00 EST

We know we're entering that time of year where you're not technically supposed to buy games for yourself but, rather, for your fellow man. Still, the upcoming wave of Amazon Lightning Deals is making it hard for us to not treat ourselves to a few discounted gems. In fact, Amazon's made it all the more difficult by accidentally revealing the identities and prices of all the offers therein, those monsters:

8:15 AM PST: Write your own epic story each time you play -- Civilization 5 (PC) for $29.99
10:15 AM PST: Suit up in this sci-fi shooter -- Vanquish (X360 or PS3) for $44.99
10:15 AM PST: The premier device in handheld gaming -- Nintendo DSi XL (Midnight Blue) for $139
1:15 PM PST: Customize your spy in this RPG/Shooter -- Alpha Protocol (X360 or PS3) for $29.99
4:15 PM PST: Don't forget to put your hands up -- Rollercoaster Tycoon 3 Platinum (PC) for $14.99

Civilization 5, Vanquish and more struck by Amazon Lightning sales today originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 22 Nov 2010 10:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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GameFly selling God of War 3, Mass Effect 2 and more for under $20

Griffin McElroy — Wed, 15 Sep 2010 16:30:00 EST

GameFly is currently running a decidedly insane sale on used copies of a handful of 2010 blockbusters until this Friday, September 17. If you've got $20 to spare, you can grab Darksiders, God of War 3, Alpha Protocol, Mass Effect 2 or Dante's Inferno -- all with free shipping to boot.

Continue reading GameFly selling God of War 3, Mass Effect 2 and more for under $20

GameFly selling God of War 3, Mass Effect 2 and more for under $20 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Sep 2010 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sega sales up in fiscal Q1, despite Alpha Protocol's disappointing performance

JC Fletcher — Fri, 30 Jul 2010 13:50:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

Sega parent, Sega Sammy Holdings, has reported net sales of ¥91.3 billion ($1.05 billion) for its fiscal first quarter, which ended June 30. The outcome compares favorably to the ¥60.5 billion ($700 million) recorded by the company during the same period last year -- and it's mostly due to pachinko sales. Still, Sega's consumer products division -- the part that makes home video games -- also enjoyed increased sales, bringing in ¥20.9 billion ($241.8 million), minus ¥636 million ($7.36 million) in operating losses.

Despite the generally upward trend, Sega reported slow sales of its major Q1 titles, Iron Man 2 and Alpha Protocol, due to "adverse market conditions." Iron Man 2 sold 1.12 million units across multiple platforms, while Alpha Protocol only sneaked into about 700,000 homes.

Sega sales up in fiscal Q1, despite Alpha Protocol's disappointing performance originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 Jul 2010 13:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Alpha Protocol sequel denied, low sales to blame

Alexander Sliwinski — Tue, 06 Jul 2010 18:00:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

Sega West president Mike Hayes has stated that the espionage RPG, Alpha Protocol, won't be receiving a sequel. In an interview with CVG, the executive plainly expressed, "Let's speak very commercially; the game hasn't sold what we've expected, therefore we won't be doing a sequel." He continued that the game didn't have enough to get into that "upper echelon" of RPGs, because the amount "you need to invest to get there is so large because RPGs are naturally big projects."

The Obsidian-developed game suffered numerous delays, alleged tweaks and eventually launched this year to middling reviews (across the industry). It seems Alpha Protocol will have a future akin to that other oft-overlooked espionage classic: Leonard Part 6.

Alpha Protocol sequel denied, low sales to blame originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Jul 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Metareview: Alpha Protocol

David Hinkle — Fri, 28 May 2010 14:28:00 EST

While we may have found Alpha Protocol to be a "technical nightmare," it doesn't mean we should all just close the book on it. No, other outlets surely have opinions on Obsidian Entertainment's "Espionage RPG" and we'd be remiss if we didn't bring them into the discussion. Let's get to it!

CVG (8.4/10): "Alpha Protocol's a technical turkey but it's also a gripping, innovative and deserving of both success and a sequel. It might look like a dog, but dig deep and you're in for an undercover treat - it's a stonking feeling when a game we were expecting to stink turns out to be a revelation. If you've any interest in RPGs that also deliver explosive action, don't let this double agent slip through the net."
Eurogamer (7/10): "Like Worcester Sauce, Alpha Protocol's separate ingredients might be slightly unappetising, but they come together in a quietly effective manner. Unlike Worcester Sauce, it will certainly frustrate you more than it should, and in between the deathlike character models and bizarre misapplications of things like depth of field effects, it will struggle to convince you the team had enough time to finish it up."
Videogamer (6/10): "Despite its myriad of shortcomings there's a moderate amount of fun to be had with Alpha Protocol. It's a game that's more enjoyable than it probably should be, a game that's better than the sum of its parts. There's a lot of potential hiding under the flawed shell, and although Obsidian has failed to coax it out this time around, I hope somebody does the concept justice in the future."
Destructoid (2/10): "Alpha Protocol, to its slim credit, has its basis in noble and ambitious ideas, and those ideas are even well executed on the whole. However, while the ambitious stuff hits the mark, the bog standard gameplay has suffered beyond measure. You can build the most magnificent castle in the world, but if the foundations are made out of wet feces, everything's going to crumble and fall apart before your very eyes. Alpha Protocol is a castle that's collapsed in crap. Proof that even the most accomplished of visions are worthless if the fundamentals aren't in place."

Gallery: Alpha Protocol

Metareview: Alpha Protocol originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 28 May 2010 14:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Review: Alpha Protocol

Justin McElroy — Fri, 28 May 2010 10:01:00 EST

I have something of a reputation on staff for being the guy who takes in strays, the one who falls for the games that, while they may have a lot going for them, are in some way flawed. It's a fair representation and, considering it allows me to enjoy games that others may instantly write off, it's not something I'm necessarily ashamed of.

Now, thanks to Alpha Protocol, I've learned that I have my limits.

Gallery: Alpha Protocol

Continue reading Review: Alpha Protocol

Review: Alpha Protocol originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 28 May 2010 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Joyswag: Alpha Protocol-themed 8GB iPod Touches [update]

Ben Gilbert — Wed, 26 May 2010 15:00:00 EST

Update: We've closed the comments and will pick three lucky winners shortly. Keep an eye on your inboxes!

We've got three 8 gigglebyte iPod Touches with fancy Alpha Protocol branding etched on 'em -- and hey, we'd love to give them to three of you. For your chance to win, just come up with at least one idea for how a spy could use an iPod (other than leave it laying around to distract foolish lackeys, of course).

You have eight chances to enter -- once per day -- as this giveaway will be active for a full week. Don't worry -- it won't self-destruct at that time ... So, what could a spy do with an iPod Touch? You tell us! To enter:

Leave a comment telling us something a spy might do with an iPod Touch.
You must be 18 years or older and a resident of the US or Canada (excluding Quebec).
Limit 1 entry per person per calendar day.
This entry period ends at 3:00PM ET on Wednesday, June 2.
At that time, we will randomly select three winners to each receive one 8GB iPod Touch with limited edition Alpha Protocol branding (ARV $199.99).
For a list of complete rules, click here.

What is Joyswag? Since we don't keep the games and merchandise we receive for review or promotional purposes, it becomes "Joyswag," which is passed along to our readers. Please note that Joyswag may be in "used" condition.

For more info on our policy, click here.

Joyswag: Alpha Protocol-themed 8GB iPod Touches [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 May 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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For every Alpha Protocol video, there's a Joystiq post

David Hinkle — Wed, 26 May 2010 00:00:00 EST

Being a spy means being versatile. Sometimes you have to scrap the plan and just wing it. Believe us, we know all about that.

This latest Alpha Protocol trailer embodies the importance of impromptu solutions to unexpected problems. It shows us that for every ambush, there's an escape; for every system, there's an override; and for every chicken nugget, there's an appropriate dipping sauce. Okay, we contributed that last nugget of wisdom, but that doesn't make it any less sage!

Alpha Protocol launches on June 1 for PC, PS3 and Xbox 360.

For every Alpha Protocol video, there's a Joystiq post originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 May 2010 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Alpha Protocol's Michael Thorton goes globetrotting in latest trailer

Ben Gilbert — Tue, 18 May 2010 00:30:00 EST

When he's not busy being formally introduced or eloquently headslamming foes, Alpha Protocol's Michael Thorton is hopping on planes, trains, and automobiles around the globe. In the game's latest trailer (found after the break), Thorton travels to exotic locales the world over ... and kills people! He's a lot like that James Bond fella, but without the namby pamby English accent getting in the way (we kid, Brits!). AP is due to hit retailers in under two weeks -- just enough time for Thorton to tour the globe three or four more times. We'll be watching our backs just in case he stops by.

Continue reading Alpha Protocol's Michael Thorton goes globetrotting in latest trailer

Alpha Protocol's Michael Thorton goes globetrotting in latest trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 18 May 2010 00:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Alpha Protocol delay back to a 'business decision only'

Alexander Sliwinski — Fri, 14 May 2010 11:59:00 EST

Not only is Sega's Alpha Protocol going to be "the espionage RPG" (according to the box), but it's also the case study in mixed messages from the creators to the game press and public. IGN recently asked Obsidian associate producer Matt Hickman if he could clarify the key moments that held up the development process, noting that there had been "a lot of different, sometimes conflicting reports." Hickman responded, "The decision to move the game out from October [2009] was merely for repositioning and constituted a business decision only."

Strange -- considering that in February Hickman told MTV Multiplayer that there were "a few reasons" for the delay, including giving the game more polish, with "tweaks" to the lighting and inventory, and a general objective in "just bringing the whole quality level up."

Perhaps Obsidian and Sega have taken the "espionage game" a bit too literally (dare we discover this to be a viral marketing campaign that went way over our heads). As if being interrogated, the creators have erratically covered up the game's development tracks with changing stories. Last October, Alpha Protocol's expected release date was flat-out ignored by Sega, until the publisher came out of hiding a week later to confirm that the delay was "official." The reasons for the delay have been many -- and now just one: a business decision. We'll find out if the "repositioning" was the right business decision for Sega when Alpha Protocol breaks its cover on June 1.

Alpha Protocol delay back to a 'business decision only' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 May 2010 11:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Alpha Protocol trailer demonstrates Michael Thorton's sweet karate skills

Ben Gilbert — Fri, 07 May 2010 22:00:00 EST

When we last saw Alpha Protocol, protagonist Michael Thorton was being formally introduced. Now, just two days later, he's pulverizing and/or murdering everything in his sight. The latest trailer, as you might have guessed, features Thorton in a variety of combat scenarios, showing off some Splinter Cell: Conviction-esque pistol takedowns and American Ninja-esque karate moves.

Immediately after watching the clip, we felt inclined to alert Mr. Thorton to one very important protip when engaging in hand-to-hand combat: leaping through the air at someone only to introduce your knee to their face is not the most effective way to start a fight. Just a thought! At very least, you kids shouldn't try pulling that off at home. Maybe in Alpha Protocol when it releases on June 1, but not physically in your home.

Alpha Protocol trailer demonstrates Michael Thorton's sweet karate skills originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 07 May 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Alpha Protocol trailer asks, 'Who is Michael Thorton?'

David Hinkle — Wed, 05 May 2010 07:00:00 EST

Isn't he the guy who wrote Jurassic Park? No wait, that's Michael Crichton. Our bad.

Michael Thorton is protagonist super spy in Alpha Protocol, Obsidian's upcoming Espionage RPG[TM]. As you can see in the trailer above, he's a dude who likes to knee chumps in the face ... and run through laser-heavy hallways in slow motion, apparently.

We get it, broseph: you're a spy. You drink martinis, drive expensive automobiles and get all the exotic babes. That's all well and good, but we have one problem with the above highlight reel, Mr. Thorton: Don't ever go around blowing up helicopters. That job is best left in more capable hands.

Alpha Protocol trailer asks, 'Who is Michael Thorton?' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 May 2010 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PC Alpha Protocol's Uniloc DRM explained

Alexander Sliwinski — Mon, 03 May 2010 16:00:00 EST

An administrator on the Sega forums has detailed what purchasers of Alpha Protocol on PC can expect from the Uniloc DRM system. With some publishers employing excessive DRM, it's good for PC players to know what they are getting into.

Sega details that initial activation of the game will require an internet connection, but after that they should be good to go. Five activations are allowed per license key, with users having the option to deactivate a computer's license if they wish. Most importantly, the DRM will allegedly be removed through a patch 18-24 months after release.

PC owners who submit to the DRM can pick up a copy June 1. In tragic irony, those who refuse to submit to any DRM will likely be able to download the game around the same time -- or earlier -- from their favorite torrent site. But don't do that.

[Via Big Download]

PC Alpha Protocol's Uniloc DRM explained originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 03 May 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Best Buy confirms Alpha Protocol 'Stealth Weapons Pack' pre-order bonus

David Hinkle — Tue, 27 Apr 2010 23:30:00 EST

Sega and Best Buy wired a press release confirming the Stealth Weapons Pack for Alpha Protocol, which includes "the Hamilton Marksman High-Accuracy Pistol, the Samael Typhoon High Recoil Control SMG and a bonus arsenal of ammo and mines." Huh, since when did the purveyors of home appliances start manufacturing weaponry?

The extra spy gear is only available through in-store Best Buy pre-orders, so you'll have to put on your best camo and infiltrate your local store if you want 'em.

Best Buy confirms Alpha Protocol 'Stealth Weapons Pack' pre-order bonus originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 Apr 2010 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Alpha Protocol's protagonist can be a real jerk sometimes

Griffin McElroy — Sat, 24 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST

The latest trailer for Obsidian's "Espionage RPG," Alpha Protocol, exposes one of the most useful tools a spy has at his disposal: His ability to converse. The video above explains the delicate balance you must maintain while questioning a source. And by "delicate balance," we mean, "be nice to him until he lets his guard down, then repeatedly strike him about the head with a half-full bottle of Ketel One." Hey, this "spy" stuff is easier than we thought!

Fine, there's a little bit more to it than that. Check out the video above to see how your words are just as effective as your bullets, except in instances where you need to shoot someone.

Alpha Protocol's protagonist can be a real jerk sometimes originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 24 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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An Eastern Bloc of Alpha Protocol character vignettes

Alexander Sliwinski — Wed, 21 Apr 2010 19:30:00 EST

Comrades: though we can hardly believe it after so many delays, all signs still indicate Alpha Protocol is on track for a June 1 release -- so let us celebrate with some trailers featuring former communists. One focuses on a hormonal East German mercenary named Sie, while the other spotlights an old Russian information broker, who likely remembers a time when information sold him.

The German is above, the Russian is after the break and a martini is stirred, not shaken.

Gallery: Alpha Protocol

Continue reading An Eastern Bloc of Alpha Protocol character vignettes

An Eastern Bloc of Alpha Protocol character vignettes originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Apr 2010 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Best Buy offers 'Stealth Weapons Pack' for Alpha Protocol pre-orders

David Hinkle — Thu, 15 Apr 2010 17:16:00 EST

Click image to sneak a peak at the pre-order ticket

Snapped by a Joystiq reader at his local Best Buy, the above image confirms that those who pre-order Alpha Protocol at the big blue box store will gain an exclusive set of stealth-based weaponry. The aptly titled "Stealth Weapons Pack" includes a "Hamilton Marksman Pistol and Samael Typhoon SMG, each with custom upgrade kits and bonus ammo." This pre-order bonus is valid to anyone who pre-orders between April 25 and May 29.

And just in case you're worried that every story about Alpha Protocol you read on the internet has to be about a delay, rest assured: it's still on track for a June 1 release.

Gallery: Alpha Protocol pre-order bonus (Best Buy)

Best Buy offers 'Stealth Weapons Pack' for Alpha Protocol pre-orders originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Apr 2010 17:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Alpha Protocol PC to use Uniloc DRM

Griffin McElroy — Wed, 14 Apr 2010 13:04:00 EST

Is the personal computer your platform of choice when it comes to living out your spy game fantasies? Be forewarned: Sega recently informed Eurogamer that the PC version of its upcoming cloak-and-dagger RPG, Alpha Protocol, would use the Uniloc DRM system. Though not as troublesome as other digital rights management protocols, Uniloc did hinder some players' enjoyment of Football Manager 2009 due to a registration code printing error and a supposed DDoS attack on the authentication servers.

Uniloc's corporate site promises their DRM solution is "polite" and "unobtrusive," thwarting would-be pirates "without compromising [your] experience." Unfortunately, we've begun to equate a company's promises about the painlessness of their DRM technologies to proctologists' promises about the painlessness of their procedures. In fact, that might be the most literal analogy we've ever conjured.

Alpha Protocol PC to use Uniloc DRM originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Apr 2010 13:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Impressions: Alpha Protocol

Ludwig Kietzmann — Wed, 07 Apr 2010 17:28:00 EST

Obsidian Entertainment is perhaps best known for being a foster home for franchises. After expanding the words and worlds of others with sequels to Knights of the Old Republic, NeverWinter Nights, and the forthcoming Fallout: New Vegas, Alpha Protocol grants the developer an opportunity to construct a role-playing game that need not abide by someone else's rules. Obsidian's strengths in storytelling and technology stand unsupported in the spotlight this time.

It sets the stage for an inescapable comparison between Alpha Protocol and Mass Effect -- provided it's Mass Effect one we're talking about. Like BioWare's first attempt at combining third-person, cover-based shooting with long-term character building and narrative choice, Alpha Protocol seems intent on telling a gripping story, even while the cardboard scenery falls down. The character models look dated, screen tearing is distracting and those extra months of post-delay polish don't shine through.

And just as with Mass Effect, the technological struggles of the engine might be relegated to the background and forgiven once your attention turns to Alpha Protocol's cast of duplicitous operatives. Yes, dry spy guy Michael Thorton doesn't make a good first impression -- more Luke Skywalker than Jack Bauer -- but he definitely makes one, as evidenced by two possible scenarios viewed side-by-side. In one, Thorton meets his Rome contact , Madison, for a sweet and earnest bedside discussion. In the other, at the same point within the game's timeline, her reception is icy and violent. What on earth could you have done in an alternate playthrough to lose that many points with her? You know, reputation points.

Gallery: Alpha Protocol

Continue reading Impressions: Alpha Protocol

Impressions: Alpha Protocol originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Apr 2010 17:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sega: we can 'sequel-ise' Bayonetta, AvP, Alpha Protocol

Griffin McElroy — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 16:00:00 EST

In a recent interview with CVG, Sega West president Mike Hayes spoke briefly on the future of the company's portfolio of intellectual properties. Hayes explained, "If you think about it, we can sequel-ise Bayonetta, AvP, Alpha Protocol and we can make a hit of something like Vanquish." Those are some mighty bold plans, considering only two of those games have actually been released.

We're fairly unsurprised by Sega's interest in a follow-up to Bayonetta. Not only because it's been a commercial success for the company, but also because the developers need another chance to do all the crazy action sequences they couldn't fit in the first game. Like, for instance, throwing a church at a dragon. Wait, they did that in Bayonetta? How about riding a motorcycle in space? Really, that too? Well, then ... we're stumped.

Sega: we can 'sequel-ise' Bayonetta, AvP, Alpha Protocol originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Mar 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Alpha Protocol has gadgets and gizmos aplenty, whozits and whatzits galore

Alexander Sliwinski — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 17:40:00 EST

Alpha Protocol is showing off the "toys" in this latest trailer for the espionage RPG. Some of the footage features gadgets used to accomplish missions stealthily, but mostly it features guns and ammunition -- like phosphorus shells to set enemies aflame. Aside from the toys, the footage also gives us a better idea of what the gameplay looks like.

Alpha Protocol is currently expected June 1 in the US, while Australia and Europe receive the package drop a week earlier.

Gallery: Alpha Protocol (2-25-10)

Alpha Protocol has gadgets and gizmos aplenty, whozits and whatzits galore originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Mar 2010 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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New Alpha Protocol trailer declassified, box art is Bourne again

Alexander Sliwinski — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 15:00:00 EST

Emerging from "deep cover" (a euphemism for plastic surgery in Eastern Europe), where it received "tweaks," Alpha Protocol is ready to shake its money maker and get everyone interested in it again with a new trailer and screenshots. Not only that, but the game's box art has also received a facelift, adding several more guns to what was only a two pistol cover before.

Alpha Protocol is set to prevent war in the States on June 1, with layovers in Australia and Europe on May 27 and 28, respectively.

Gallery: Alpha Protocol (2-25-10)

New Alpha Protocol trailer declassified, box art is Bourne again originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Feb 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Alpha Protocol obtains June 1 release date [update]

Alexander Sliwinski — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 19:01:00 EST

Alpha Protocol is ready to spy hard on May 28 and June 1 in Europe and North America, respectively, according to IGN. Spies in the land down under will get their chance to play the game on May 27.

Obsidian's RPG has been plagued by delays, shifting its launch from fall, to spring, to summer. Hopefully, this time Sega can make the game's latest release date -- or at least let us know in a reasonable amount of time if it's delayed, again.

Update: Sega has confirmed the June 1 release date for North America. All three versions -- PS3, Xbox 360 and PC -- will release on that day.

Alpha Protocol obtains June 1 release date [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Feb 2010 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sega cites 'tweaks' and release position for Alpha Protocol delay [update]

Ben Gilbert — Sat, 06 Feb 2010 21:30:00 EST

It would have been nice to hear more of an explanation way back in October when Sega's Alpha Protocol was "officially delayed" to the amorphous "Spring 2010," but, unfortunately, that didn't happen. Speaking with MTV Multiplayer this week, though, assistant producer at Sega Matthew Hickman explicitly detailed the reasons for the delay, saying, "We really wanted to polish the game up, make it everything Obsidian planned it to be, and give the consumer a very polished game."

He added that there's been some "tweaks in lighting here and there," and the inventory screen has been revamped a bit, but in general the team has been focused on "bringing the whole quality level up." The post's author also notes that the game is set for a "Summer 2010" release window now, and we've reached out to him (and Sega) for clarification.

Update: The post's author has responded that, yes, the game's current release window is set for "Summer 2010." Guess that's another delay then, eh? We'll update again if Sega responds.

Gallery: Alpha Protocol

Sega cites 'tweaks' and release position for Alpha Protocol delay [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 06 Feb 2010 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Big Download awards 2009's vaporware

Xav de Matos — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 23:30:00 EST

In response to Wired's own 2009 vaporware awards, our pals at BigDownload have complied their own list of software and hardware that woulda, coulda and shoulda seen the light of day this year. Topping the list is the streaming service OnLive, which was slated to release in "winter 2009," following a healthy dose of beta testing. While reception for the service has been mostly positive, OnLive's claims have yet to be tested on a global stage (during E3 2009, OnLive was previewed for select media via a cable modem connection to the service's California-based headquarters).

Other nods go to Gearbox Software's oft-delayed -- we'll believe it when we see it -- Aliens: Colonial Marines, Obsidian's "oh, by the way, it's not coming out today" Alpha Protocol, and Midway's This Is ~~Canceled~~ Vegas. Sadly, Duke Nukem Forever failed to win an award for what would have been a record twelfth-straight year.

Big Download awards 2009's vaporware originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Dec 2009 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sega actually confirms Alpha Protocol delay

JC Fletcher — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 15:00:00 EST

Despite seeing some semi-official evidence of an Alpha Protocol delay from Sega's website, and some circumstantial evidence in the fact that it didn't make its original release date, nothing official has been said from anyone at Sega or Obsidian regarding the too-sneaky-for-its-own-good game. Until today!

Obsidian's Feargus Urquhart has come forward to speak on the delay. "We're very happy that Sega has made the decision to hold back the shipment of the game in order to give it the best chance at becoming the publishing success that we at Obsidian and our partners at Sega are striving for," Urquhart told CVG.

Sega Europe managing director Alan Pritchard, the first person at Sega to officially acknowledge the Alpha Protocol release date change, added, "By pushing Alpha Protocol to Spring 2010, we can ensure that the game will be released in the best commercial release window possible and will also receive the focus this true AAA title deserves."

While we question Spring 2010's status as "the best commercial release window possible" (given the preponderance of publishers of other games that decided the exact same thing), we're relieved that we can finally stop haranguing that Gamestop salesperson about our pre-ordered Alpha Protocol that still hasn't arrived.

Sega actually confirms Alpha Protocol delay originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Oct 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sega: Alpha Protocol 'out now,' er ... 'Spring 2010'

Alexander Sliwinski — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 14:00:00 EST

While Sega of America's public relations team still hasn't said one word regarding an increasingly inevitable delay, Sega of America's website has finally declared that Alpha Protocol will not begin its mission until 2010. The site displays the Xbox 360 and PC launches for May 6, 2010, while the PS3 version has been left at "Spring 2010." This is a not-so-slight change from what the publisher's website showed this morning, when the release information stated the espionage RPG was "out now" -- a strange pronouncement for frustrated consumers, venting on developer Obsidian's forums, and retailers we'd spoken to.

Sega's update now fits with what several retailers have suggested about a 2010 release, including GameStop, Walmart, Amazon and GameFly.

Sega: Alpha Protocol 'out now,' er ... 'Spring 2010' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Oct 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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GameFly changes Alpha Protocol release to 'TBD'

Alexander Sliwinski — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 14:45:00 EST

With Sega still refusing to respond to inquiries about Alpha Protocol's release date, it seems retailers are doing the talking for 'em: GameFly has changed its release date of "the espionage RPG" from October 27th to TBD. The video game rental site has a long-standing history to "simply post information as it is supplied to [GameFly] by the publishers."

Further requests for clarification from Sega continue to be met by the Sega Wall of Silence[TM]. We have been told by the company's development director that we should expect "an update shortly via PR." And for the record, the official release date for Alpha Protocol is still next Tuesday. Sega?

GameFly changes Alpha Protocol release to 'TBD' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 Sep 2009 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rumor: Alpha Protocol delayed, possibly until 2010

Alexander Sliwinski — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 10:30:00 EST

It appears Sega's Alpha Protocol is going to suffer a delay, the precise length of which remains in question. The last official word we heard from the publisher was that Alpha Protocol was to be released on October 6 (that's next week!), a release date that has seemed unlikely after numerous retailers shifted that date to late October. The latest release date change? Mega-retailer GameStop has shifted its expected launch date for the title to 6/1/2010, with Amazon Canada also showing a 2010 release (Amazon US has not made any change).

Developer Obsidian Entertainment is forwarding all requests for comment to Sega which, in traditional Sega fashion, have been met with the Sega Wall of Silence[TM]. We'll update as soon as somebody decides to say something. Remember, the company line from Sega is that Alpha Protocol is supposed to hit store shelves next week.

Rumor: Alpha Protocol delayed, possibly until 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Sep 2009 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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WTF: Fable characters in Sonic Racing and other oddities from alleged Sega leak

Ben Gilbert — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 13:28:00 EST

Among the truckloads of possibly legit megatons included in the alleged leaked minutes from a meeting between Sega of America and Sony Computer Entertainment America, a number of notable gaffes and oddities can be found. Besides wondering if "characters from [the] Rare or Fable universes" should be included in Sonic Racing, it appears that Sega may be interested in assigning all of its properties a PlayStation Home-room. Oh, and a product evaluator thought Alpha Protocol felt "barely RPG" -- final analysis: make it even more Mass Effect-y.

Additionally, the mention of PS2 games as downloadable content on PSN makes us reminisce all the way back to mid-2006 when the idea first popped up on our radar --- surely, this isn't why Sony removed built-in backwards compatibility? And either the person taking minutes was daydreaming or knows something we don't, as reference is made to "Eidos' Batman" featuring "PS3/PSP interoperability" support -- a Batman or related DC Comics PSP game then? Juicer still, that little mention comes right after talk of a project named "Vanquish" and a possible PSP iteration of the currently shelved Aliens: Colonial Marines that Gearbox Software is working on. Also, Sony is eager to check out that hopefully not-so-crappy Thor game soon (suggestion: make it less Iron Man 2-y).

The cherry on top comes in the form of what we've been calling around the Joystiq water cooler: "Sonic and the Inverted Castle." Found under the "Sonic Anniversary" subhead, the note taker jots down, "SCEA would love PSN exclusive power ups/different game modes (like Castlevania's flip it over/backwards)." Actually, we believe that's Missy Elliott who puts the thing down, flips it and reverses it, thank you very much.

WTF: Fable characters in Sonic Racing and other oddities from alleged Sega leak originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 Sep 2009 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Pre-order Alpha Protocol on Steam, get Space Siege free

David Hinkle — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 03:00:00 EST

For those of you anxious to WASD your way through Obsidian's Alpha Protocol (y'know, the Espionage RPG), Steam is offering a bonus if you pick up the game through its service. Anyone who pre-orders will get a free copy of Gas Powered Games' (and Sega-published) Space Siege immediately, a $20 title. The freebie should help to assuage Obsidian's gross oversight. C'mon, how could the studio forget to include cyborg space marines?

Download the PC demo for Space Siege right here.

Pre-order Alpha Protocol on Steam, get Space Siege free originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Aug 2009 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Impressions: Alpha Protocol

Andrew Yoon — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 21:45:00 EST

Who needs Mass Effect 2?

I would be upset by Mass Effect 2's 2010 release were it not for Obsidian's upcoming "espionage RPG." The core mechanics of BioWare's space opera are here: shooter controls, experience points, specialized skills and branching dialogue trees with a strong emphasis on player choices. In a world about traitorous spies, these choices will certainly keep you on your toes.

The many developer diaries released by Obsidian certainly took away some of the surprise of seeing Alpha Protocol in action. At the very least, I was relieved to see that the game simply works, and most importantly: looks like a lot of fun. For those that choose to go guns blazing, the many abilities you can acquire make the combat ridiculously fun. Depending on what players spend their experience points on, players will have access to a number of different abilities. Some of the skills I saw: a radar to highlight enemies (and allies), a rapid lock-on ability, bullet-time, and increased stealth -- helpful for when you want to sneak up behind someone and snap their neck.

Gallery: Alpha Protocol

Continue reading Impressions: Alpha Protocol

Impressions: Alpha Protocol originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 Aug 2009 21:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Alpha Protocol issues license to NOT kill

Richard Mitchell — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 22:00:00 EST

According to a Twitter update from Obsidian regarding its upcoming stealth-em-up RPG, Alpha Protocol, it's possible to complete the game without killing anyone. The tweet failed to elaborate on why someone would choose to play through a spy-action game without killing anyone (but you can bet there's some kinda reward in store for the apprehensive player) and also whether or not it's possible to clear the game without maiming, disfiguring or severely bruising anyone. Frankly, given the nature of the action-spy business, we don't see how that would be possible.

The "no kill" challenge has been posed before, appearing in other stealth titles like Metal Gear Solid and even the straight action-oriented Mirror's Edge. In fact, it would be kinda strange if Alpha Protocol didn't allow players to finish the game without killing -- it's become a requisite for the genre, after all.

Well, however you decide to tackle Alpha Protocol, at least there's some sex in it for you, right?

Alpha Protocol issues license to NOT kill originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Aug 2009 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Obsidian: Sex scenes help involve players in the game world

David Hinkle — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 15:30:00 EST

Obsidian's Chris Avellone, creative director on the upcoming Alpha Protocol, thinks that human interaction is a very important element in RPG -- especially when it comes to the love shared between two consenting adults. Avellone recently commented to Destructoid that including sex scenes in Alpha Protocol was "an important step, and it's not sex for sex's sake, but it's part of human interaction that makes you more involved in the game world and your characters."

Sometimes the act can come off more out-of-place than appropriate, which our time with Dragon Age: Origins seemed to highlight, but, on the other hand (keep it where we can see it!) the sex scene in Mass Effect was fairly tasteful. Well, unless you're one of the misinformed minds at Fox News.

Obsidian: Sex scenes help involve players in the game world originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Aug 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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New Alpha Protocol video sneaks inside the safe house

Alexander Sliwinski — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 20:40:00 EST

Alpha Protocol continues its leak of classified information in this latest walkthrough trailer. The video, obtained by super-secret spycam, shows how players will use the safe houses in the game to accessorize their weaponry and character. We learn how to put a silencer on the protagonist's head and change the hair on his gun ... wait, reverse that.

The video also covers the skill tree and some of the special moves available to the character in the espionage RPG releasing October 6.

Gallery: Alpha Protocol

New Alpha Protocol video sneaks inside the safe house originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Jul 2009 20:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Pre-order Alpha Protocol for in-game bonus packs

Jem Alexander — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 06:30:00 EST

Are you planning on pre-ordering The Espionage RPG? It may not be at the top of your list, but after hearing about the pre-order bonuses ... well, that probably won't change. Still, if you're planning on picking up the game anyway, they're worth placing an order for. Alpha Protocol will be offering pre-orderers two different in-game packs, depending on where you decide to make your purchase.

The Assault Pack, available from GameStop, unlocks a bunch of the more beefy weapons in the game, as well as giving access to two "exclusive specially modified weapons and extras." The Stealth Pack, available from GameCrazy, is very similar, but is more skewed towards quietly picking off enemies with tranqs and suppressors. Check out the Sega blog for full details.

Pre-order Alpha Protocol for in-game bonus packs originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Jul 2009 06:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Alpha Protocol: The Espionage RPG: The Release Date

JC Fletcher — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 09:15:00 EST

Sega of America has announced the release date for Obsidian's Alpha Protocol, whatever that is. Oh, it's "The Espionage RPG." How helpful! That game will be out on October 6.

In addition to the date announcement, Sega released the North American box art, which can be found in our gallery. We must warn you, however, before you rush into the gallery, full of hope for a more exciting, distinctive box art image: it's exactly the same as the UK box art seen yesterday, with the "PAL" label changed to "NTSC" and the PEGI rating box changed to an ESRB box. It's still the same Pseudo-Bourne standing up in front of geography class.

Gallery: Alpha Protocol

Alpha Protocol: The Espionage RPG: The Release Date originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Jul 2009 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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