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 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[NintendoWare Weekly: Dragon Quest Wars, Arkanoid Plus, Altered Beast]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/28/nintendoware-weekly-dragon-quest-wars-arkanoid-plus-altered-b/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/28/nintendoware-weekly-dragon-quest-wars-arkanoid-plus-altered-b/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/28/nintendoware-weekly-dragon-quest-wars-arkanoid-plus-altered-b/#comments Welcome to another Monday, a day when most of us with jobs or school must go back to that place we just love to spend most of our time each week. That is, unless you're one of the lucky few who just sit around waiting for the Wii and DSi shops to update.

If you fall into the latter group, we'd just like to thank you for waking up this early to check out what's available for download today on the Wii and DSi. It's nice of you to do so considering you don't have any obligation to be up before noon. Boy, that must be nice. So head past the break and see what's available already!

Continue reading NintendoWare Weekly: Dragon Quest Wars, Arkanoid Plus, Altered Beast

JoystiqNintendoWare Weekly: Dragon Quest Wars, Arkanoid Plus, Altered Beast originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Sep 2009 11:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>altered-beastarkanoidarkanoid-plusart-academydragon-questdragon-quest-warsdriift-maniaDSdsidsiwarekonamiNintendonintendo-dsinintendoware-weeklysegasquare-enixtaitovirtual-consoleWiiwiiwareMon, 28 Sep 2009 11:21:00 EST<![CDATA[BreakQuest delivering PSP Mini-sized Arkanoid clone]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/24/breakquest-delivering-psp-mini-sized-arkanoid-clone/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/24/breakquest-delivering-psp-mini-sized-arkanoid-clone/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/24/breakquest-delivering-psp-mini-sized-arkanoid-clone/#comments The world currently faces a crisis of epic proportions -- a global shortage of Breakout-esque games. Without competition, the few entries in this brick-smashing genre have monopolized the market, leading to a lack of competition, which will lead to another gaming industry crash, which will lead to complete economic collapse, which will lead to the nuclear apocalypse. Fortunately for us, indie developer Beatshapers will try to save our world this October with a ball-and-paddle PSP Mini titled BreakQuest.

Okay, the demand for Arkanoid clones is considerably lower than the previous paragraph may have indicated, but we admit -- BreakQuest looks pretty stylish. Well, as stylish as an under-100MB Breakout title on the PSP could look. Check out the gallery below for a fresh batch of screenshots.

[Via IGN]

Gallery: BreakQuest (PSP)


JoystiqBreakQuest delivering PSP Mini-sized Arkanoid clone originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 Sep 2009 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkanoidbeatshapersbreakoutbreakquestpsp-minisThu, 24 Sep 2009 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Space Invaders Extreme, Arkanoid DLC invade Xbox Live]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/17/space-invaders-extreme-arkanoid-dlc-invade-xbox-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/17/space-invaders-extreme-arkanoid-dlc-invade-xbox-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/17/space-invaders-extreme-arkanoid-dlc-invade-xbox-live/#comments
If you've got a hankering for some more alien destruction with a musical twist, you'll be happy to know that some new DLC for Space Invaders Extreme has landed on Xbox Live Marketplace. Entitled, simply, Space Invaders Extreme Expansion Pack, the DLC grants players access to the original versions of Space Invaders and Space Invaders II. According to Shacknews -- though not mentioned on the XBLM description -- the DLC will also include new stages and bosses for the main game as well. The price of entry is 240.

The expected Arkanoid Live DLC arrives today as well. There are two bits of DLC, Episode Add-on Pack 1 and Episode Add-on Pack 2. The Xbox.com descriptions of the DLC are pretty vague, but we're just going to go out on a limb here and guess that each pack adds one of the two missing episodes -- the ones that are grayed out in the main menu -- to the game. Each piece of Arkanoid DLC runs for 240.

Source - Xbox Live Marketplace: Space Invaders Extreme
Source - Xbox Live Marketplace: Arkanoid Live

JoystiqSpace Invaders Extreme, Arkanoid DLC invade Xbox Live originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Jun 2009 15:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkanoidbackbonedlcspace-invaders-extremetaitoxblaWed, 17 Jun 2009 15:05:00 EST<![CDATA[VC/WiiWare Tuesday: Muscle Marches On]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/26/vc-wiiware-tuesday-muscle-marches-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/26/vc-wiiware-tuesday-muscle-marches-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/26/vc-wiiware-tuesday-muscle-marches-on/#commentsUnder normal circumstances, by far the biggest news on the Japanese Wii Shop this week would be Final Fantasy. Square Enix actually delivered the game on time to Virtual Console, and didn't even take the opportunity to jack the price up. Even if it is ancient, 500 points for a classic RPG is a great deal!

But circumstances aren't normal this week: Muscle March, the game of posing a line of Speedo'd bodybuilders to run through walls in order to catch the thief who stole their protein powder, is out. Also on WiiWare, though less muscle-related: Arkanoid Plus!, a WiiWare release similar to the Arkanoid game for XBLA, and NEVES Plus.

Virtual Console:
WiiWare:

JoystiqVC/WiiWare Tuesday: Muscle Marches On originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 May 2009 12:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3-degrees-carkanoidarkanoid-plusfinal-fantasymuscle-marchneves-plussplatterhousevctuesdayTue, 26 May 2009 12:10:00 EST<![CDATA[This Wednesday: Zombie Wranglers, Arkanoid and Space Invaders]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/04/this-wednesday-zombie-wranglers-arkanoid-and-space-invaders/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/04/this-wednesday-zombie-wranglers-arkanoid-and-space-invaders/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/04/this-wednesday-zombie-wranglers-arkanoid-and-space-invaders/#comments XBLA is up for another threefer this week, with Zombie Wranglers (no, really), Arkanoid Live and Space Invaders Extreme all hitting the service. Arkanoid Live and Space Invaders Extreme are both remakes of arcade classics, while Zombie Wranglers is a co-op game that tasks players with -- you guessed it -- wrangling zombies. All three games will be available this Wednesday for 800 ($10) each.

If you'd rather nab Zombie Wranglers for free, developer Frozen Codebase is giving away five download codes on the official Zombie Wranglers Facebook page. Just leave a zombie survival tip on the wall to enter.

Gallery: Space Invaders Extreme (XBLA)


JoystiqThis Wednesday: Zombie Wranglers, Arkanoid and Space Invaders originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 May 2009 12:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkanoidarkanoid-liveMicrosoftspace-invadersspace-invaders-extremethis-wednesdayxblaxbla-wednesdayXbox-360zombie-wranglersMon, 04 May 2009 12:01:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: You're doing it wrong, community game teaches foreplay [Update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/26/psa-youre-doing-it-wrong-community-game-teaches-foreplay/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/26/psa-youre-doing-it-wrong-community-game-teaches-foreplay/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/26/psa-youre-doing-it-wrong-community-game-teaches-foreplay/#comments
Update: Community game, Break One Out, has been pulled from the Xbox Live Marketplace.

Ladies and gentlemen, we're doing it wrong. After years of thinking we'd figured out every trick available from books and television, video games have revealed that the easiest method to get someone naked is by playing an Arkanoid clone over their (already naked) body.

How did we discover the answer to one of the world's greatest mysteries? The Xbox Community Game, Break One Out (yeah, that's the name) taught us, of course! The game features Kitty -- we're sure that's her real name -- covered with blocks that must be destroyed by sending balls flying toward her. In hindsight, we probably could have put that in a less "double entendre" kind of way ...

Even though the game doesn't feature any real nudity (naughty bits are covered up by black bars) it's surprising Microsoft wouldn't pull the content for fear of damaging its family friendly image. Thankfully, all Community Games are considered unrated content, which means the game isn't accessible when any of the Xbox 360 Family Settings are adjusted.

Here's the real PSA. Don't buy this game, folks. Not because it's a bad game (and it is), not because it's sad (and oh boy, is it) but because it's 200 ($2.50) ... and the sequel will probably include co-op.

JoystiqPSA: You're doing it wrong, community game teaches foreplay [Update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Mar 2009 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkanoidarkanoid-clonebad-gamescommunity-gamespsaxnaThu, 26 Mar 2009 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Taito reveals Space Invaders, Cooking Mama games for iPhone, iPod, Android]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/27/space-invaders-and-cooking-mama-come-to-iphone-ipod-touch-3g/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/27/space-invaders-and-cooking-mama-come-to-iphone-ipod-touch-3g/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/27/space-invaders-and-cooking-mama-come-to-iphone-ipod-touch-3g/#comments
Taito has announced that iPhone and iPod Touch users can access versions of Space Invaders and Cooking Mama in the app store now. The Space Invaders game available in the app store is of the classic variety, but features "full use of the motion sensor and other iPhone 3G and iPod Touch input methods." As for Cooking Mama, the version available for the iPhone and iPod Touch includes "both favorite recipes from past console installments as well as a variety of dishes completely new to the series" and has been enhanced to "make the most of the iPhone 3G / iPod touch's multi-touch screen accelerometer." You can find Cooking Mama and Space Invaders in the app store now for $6.99 and $4.99, respectively.

In addition to new games for Apple platforms, Taito has also announced plans to support Android. T-Mobile users will be able to pick up Arkanoid and Space Invaders now for $5.99 each.

Gallery: Cooking Mama (iPhone/iPod)


Gallery: Space Invaders (iPhone/iPod)

JoystiqTaito reveals Space Invaders, Cooking Mama games for iPhone, iPod, Android originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidapp-storeapplearkanoidcooking-mamaGoogleiphoneipodipod-touchspace-invaderstaitoFri, 27 Feb 2009 15:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Virtually Overlooked: Arkanoid]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/04/virtually-overlooked-arkanoid/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/04/virtually-overlooked-arkanoid/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/04/virtually-overlooked-arkanoid/#commentsFiled under:


With the 30th anniversary celebration of Space Invaders (probably) coming to a close, celebrated most recently by the release of Space Invaders Get Even on WiiWare, I find myself brimming with happy feelings about anything that falls in the category of "classic Taito." Arkanoid is a perfect companion piece to Space Invaders, sharing the same basic layout as the shooter: a player character on the bottom of the screen, moving left and right and aiming projectiles at obstacles arranged on the top half of the screen.

DS updates of both games were released simultaneously, and while Space Invaders Extreme turned out to be one of the best games of the year, Arkanoid DS proved to be merely a pretty good Arkanoid-type game. Arkanoid deserves a lot better than that, and while rereleasing the NES game without the paddle controller isn't ideal, it would at least allow new gamers to familiarize themselves with real Arkanoid.

Continue reading Virtually Overlooked: Arkanoid

JoystiqVirtually Overlooked: Arkanoid originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Dec 2008 20:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkanoidblock-kuzushibreakoutnestaitoThu, 04 Dec 2008 20:13:00 EST<![CDATA[TGS 08: New XBLA titles screenshot roundup]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/09/tgs-08-new-xbla-titles-screenshot-roundup/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/09/tgs-08-new-xbla-titles-screenshot-roundup/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/09/tgs-08-new-xbla-titles-screenshot-roundup/#commentsFiled under: ,


Freshly picked from Microsoft's massive library of Tokyo Game Show press kits comes brand new screenshots from a handful of the recently announced Xbox Live Arcade titles. You can view all the new screens in the galleries after the break for XBLA games including Arkanoid Live, Meteos, Space Invaders Extreme, Shadow Assault and R-Type Dimensions. There's a lot of screenshots to be viewed and you know your mission, so you best be getting to it!

Continue reading TGS 08: New XBLA titles screenshot roundup

JoystiqTGS 08: New XBLA titles screenshot roundup originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Oct 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkanoidarkcanoid-livemeteosr-typer-type-dimensionsshadow-assaultspace-invaders-extremetgs08xblaThu, 09 Oct 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TGS 08: Metal Slug 7, Arkanoid, Space Invaders, R-Type and KoF '98 to XBLA]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/08/tgs-08-metal-slug-7-arkanoid-space-invaders-r-type-and-kof/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/08/tgs-08-metal-slug-7-arkanoid-space-invaders-r-type-and-kof/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/08/tgs-08-metal-slug-7-arkanoid-space-invaders-r-type-and-kof/#commentsFiled under: ,


On the Xbox Live Arcade news fronts, Microsoft just announced that Taito's Space Invaders Extreme and Arkanoid (with 120 stages and online play) will release to the XBLA this Winter. Also announced was old school racer R-Type and that SNK Playmore's The King of Fighters '98 Ultimate Match will release Spring of 2009 and Metal Slug 7 will be releasing to the Arcade at a time yet to be determined.

Now those, friends, are a few nice Xbox Live Arcade titles to look forward to.

JoystiqTGS 08: Metal Slug 7, Arkanoid, Space Invaders, R-Type and KoF '98 to XBLA originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Oct 2008 23:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkanoidking-of-fightersking-of-fighters-98metal-slug-7snk-playmorespace-invaders-extremetgs08xblaWed, 08 Oct 2008 23:40:00 EST<![CDATA[King of Fighters '98, Arkanoid, Space Invaders Extreme, Metal Slug 7, and more heading to XBL Arcade]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/08/king-of-fighters-98-arkanoid-space-invaders-extreme-metal-sl/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/08/king-of-fighters-98-arkanoid-space-invaders-extreme-metal-sl/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/08/king-of-fighters-98-arkanoid-space-invaders-extreme-metal-sl/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Hot from the Microsoft keynote at the Tokyo Game Show comes more retro arcade action. Been jonesing to play more Arkanoid ever since that thing came out back in 1986? It was Breakout on steroids, and ate quarters like Cookie Monster eats chocolate chip cookies. Super Arkanoid and Space Invaders Extreme will be out on XBLA this winter, and it'll be joined next year by Metal Slug 7 , R-Type and The King of Fighters '98: Ultimate Match.

The games will all be updated with new graphics, music, two-player and online modes, and will do a good job towards filling that vintage hole in your heart. Now Capcom, please give us some Darkstalkers, and we'll be happy.

JoystiqKing of Fighters '98, Arkanoid, Space Invaders Extreme, Metal Slug 7, and more heading to XBL Arcade originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Oct 2008 23:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ArkanoidbreakingnewsKing-of-FightersKing-of-Fighters-98Metal-SlugMetal-Slug-7R-TypeRetroSpace-Invaders-ExtremeTGSXBLAXbox-360Xbox-Live-ArcadeWed, 08 Oct 2008 23:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Fanswag Reminder: Taito/SE gear to fill your hours]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/11/fanswag-reminder-taito-se-gear-to-fill-your-hours/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/11/fanswag-reminder-taito-se-gear-to-fill-your-hours/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/11/fanswag-reminder-taito-se-gear-to-fill-your-hours/#commentsFiled under:


We're bursting with opportunities for free stuff right now! Not only can those of you in the Santa Monica area swing by the Joystiq Network End-of-E3 meetup next week, everyone else (in the U.S. or most of Canada) can enter right now to win Space Invaders Extreme, Arkanoid DS, and an import paddle controller (in white). See, we kinda like you. Do you like us: Y/N? Oh, just go enter the contest already.

JoystiqFanswag Reminder: Taito/SE gear to fill your hours originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 Jul 2008 08:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkanoidcontestgiveawaypaddlespace-invaders-extremesquare-enixtaitoFri, 11 Jul 2008 08:20:00 EST<![CDATA[WRUP: Cuts like the very first time edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/04/wrup-cuts-like-the-very-first-time-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/04/wrup-cuts-like-the-very-first-time-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/04/wrup-cuts-like-the-very-first-time-edition/#commentsFiled under:


The big release this week is none other than Trauma Center: Under the Knife 2. After giving it a thorough play, we found it to be an overall great title. With Europe getting Space Invaders Extreme and Arkanoid DS this week, we imagine you folks are going to be playing those?

How will you fill your free time this weekend?

JoystiqWRUP: Cuts like the very first time edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Jul 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkanoidarkanoid-dsatlusspace-invaders-extremesquare-enixunder-the-knife-2Fri, 04 Jul 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Fanswag: Space Invaders Extreme, Arkanoid, and a paddle to play 'em with]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/04/ds-fanswag-space-invaders-extreme-arkanoid-and-a-paddle-to-pl/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/04/ds-fanswag-space-invaders-extreme-arkanoid-and-a-paddle-to-pl/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/04/ds-fanswag-space-invaders-extreme-arkanoid-and-a-paddle-to-pl/#commentsFiled under:


We've got an ultimate game pack up for grabs with this latest DS Fanswag! One lucky reader is going to walk away with Space Invaders Extreme ($19.99), Arkanoid DS ($19.99), and an import paddle controller (in white; $29.99), and all for the low, low price of a comment.

What do you need to do to win? Well, since it's almost time for E3, tell us what you hope will be announced at the show! You may enter once per day and the contest will run through Sunday, July 13th; that night, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern, entries will close, and we'll choose one winner in a random drawing. To enter, you must be 18 or older, and a current legal resident of the United States or Canada (excluding Quebec). Have questions? Check the official rules.

JoystiqDS Fanswag: Space Invaders Extreme, Arkanoid, and a paddle to play 'em with originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Jul 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkanoidcontestcontrollergiveawayimportpaddlespace-invaders-extremesquare-enixtaitoFri, 04 Jul 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DS releases for the week of June 30th]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/30/ds-releases-for-the-week-of-june-30/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/30/ds-releases-for-the-week-of-june-30/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/30/ds-releases-for-the-week-of-june-30/#commentsFiled under:

Anyone need a kidney? It's fresh! We need the money so we can keep up with all these vitally important DS games, and after this week, we'll know how to remove it cleanly. Trauma Center is just like real surgery, right? It's important that we learn, so we can get 1 vs. 100 (omg!) the moment it's released.

Surgery may not be our thing, but we've got a handle on sarcasm.
  • 1 vs. 100
  • AMF Bowling Pinbusters!
  • Ducati Moto
  • Journey to the Center of the Earth
  • Trauma Center: Under the Knife 2
Stagger past the break to see what's out in the rest of the world.

Continue reading DS releases for the week of June 30th

JoystiqDS releases for the week of June 30th originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 Jun 2008 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkanoidnanashi-no-gamereleasesspace-invaders-extremetrauma-centerunder-the-knife-2Mon, 30 Jun 2008 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[The strangest Arkanoid video you'll ever see]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/25/the-strangest-arkanoid-video-youll-ever-see/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/25/the-strangest-arkanoid-video-youll-ever-see/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/25/the-strangest-arkanoid-video-youll-ever-see/#commentsFiled under:


One thing we've learned while playing Arkanoid DS -- it's difficult to break blocks and eat at the same time. The man in the video above seems to have it all figured out, though. While this still might not be as fun as playing with the imported paddle, at least you'll have an easier time multitasking.

File this one under "another crazy video from Japan."

[Via GoNintendo]

JoystiqThe strangest Arkanoid video you'll ever see originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Jun 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkanoidbreakoutgameshowjapanWed, 25 Jun 2008 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Fanboy Review: Arkanoid DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/ds-fanboy-review-arkanoid-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/ds-fanboy-review-arkanoid-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/ds-fanboy-review-arkanoid-ds/#commentsFiled under:


I love Arkanoid. I purchased the NES game, with its included paddle controller, as soon as it came out in 1987. I still play it. It's still really hard, and I still think level 3 -- level 3! -- is one of the most devious and challenging video game levels ever devised. When Taito revealed that they were updating Arkanoid for the DS, I was beyond thrilled. I have been waiting for the American release of this game since last year. While I thought Space Invaders Extreme looked like a more creative update of its source material, Arkanoid DS had Arkanoid as its source material.

It's pretty good. It fails to hold up perfectly to the original, but it's pretty good.

Continue reading DS Fanboy Review: Arkanoid DS

JoystiqDS Fanboy Review: Arkanoid DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Jun 2008 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkanoidbreakoutjoystiqfeaturespaddlesquare-enixtaitoMon, 23 Jun 2008 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Friday Video: Yes, it has a story]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/friday-video-yes-it-has-a-story/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/friday-video-yes-it-has-a-story/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/friday-video-yes-it-has-a-story/#commentsFiled under:


The Arkanoid series appears to be fairly abstract. The paddle and blocks can't be anything other than gameplay elements, right? The Tetris blocks don't represent animals or anything, and Arkanoid is the same kind of non-narrative puzzle-action experience.

Except it isn't. One of the things that elevates Arkanoid beyond other Breakout clones is its ridiculous sci-fi storyline, which pits a cylindrical spaceship called the Vaus against barriers put up by the evil Doh, who is a giant moai. The Vaus's primary weapon is ... a giant ball that the crew bounces off of the ship's own body. The spacefaring backdrop makes the game a lot more enjoyable -- especially once you realize that your every action jostles the crew of a spaceship as if they were in a giant cocktail shaker.

For an example of the kind of epic narrative featured in the series (which, to an extent, is also found in Arkanoid DS), we've chosen to present the ending from the Super NES Arkanoid: Doh it Again.

JoystiqFriday Video: Yes, it has a story originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Jun 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkanoidbreakoutendingpuzzletaitoFri, 20 Jun 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WRUP: Paddle-tastic edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/wrup-paddle-tastic-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/wrup-paddle-tastic-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/wrup-paddle-tastic-edition/#commentsFiled under:

This weekend, the DS Fanboy staff will likely be knee-deep in conflict. Whether it's against invaders from space or gigantic blocks, we'll be armed with one weapon that will aid us in defeating these threats: Taito's paddle controller. Seriously, it's all Arkanoid DS and Space Invaders Extreme for us this weekend.

What about you all? Going to be playing the same games as us? Playing something else? What will you be playing?

JoystiqWRUP: Paddle-tastic edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Jun 2008 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkanoidpaddlespace-invaders-extremesquare-enixtaitoFri, 20 Jun 2008 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview: Arkanoid DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/19/metareview-arkanoid-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/19/metareview-arkanoid-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/19/metareview-arkanoid-ds/#commentsFiled under:

We've already seen critics rave over Space Invaders Extreme, but how about Taito's other redone classic, Arkanoid DS? Well, not so much. Reviews on this game range from good, to bad, to mediocre:

IGN (45/100) felt that the developers took everything that was great about Arkanoid and flushed it down the toilet: "But once you played the game it's easy to see just how bad of an 'Arkanoid' game it is. The Paddle peripheral is absolutely fantastic: the knob has great weight and interfaces with the system and game extremely well. But the gameplay is so far away from the original Arkanoid. The sound effects and power-ups may have matched the arcade game but the same action is nowhere near the original."

Gamespot (80/100) was on the other side of the spectrum, and thought the game had a lot to offer: "There's more than enough fun to be had with Arkanoid DS to justify its budget price tag, and the multiplayer content and online leaderboards that compare your performances in the single-player Clear mode ensure that there's no shortage of replay value if you're the competitive type. Arkanoid was a great game in 1986 and it's still a great game in 2008. Arkanoid DS is even better."

Nintendo Power (65/100) found the game to be fun, but not on par with Space Invaders Extreme: "Though not as glossy as Space Invaders Extreme (another Taito update from Square Enix), brick-breaker Arkanoid DS takes advantage of the DS hardware more than its classic-reborn cousin by offering a vertical playing field and a touch-control option." [July 2008, p.89]

JoystiqMetareview: Arkanoid DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Jun 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionarkanoidpaddlepuzzlesquare-enixtaitoThu, 19 Jun 2008 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Fanboy Review: Block Breaker Deluxe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/18/wii-fanboy-review-block-breaker-deluxe/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/18/wii-fanboy-review-block-breaker-deluxe/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/18/wii-fanboy-review-block-breaker-deluxe/#commentsFiled under: ,

When Pong evolved, we got Breakout. When Breakout evolved, we got Arkanoid. Then, when Arkanoid evolved, we got ... Block Breaker Deluxe?

Not that we'd call Block Breaker Deluxe revolutionary in any way, even though it's fun to play. Take Breakout, slap on some tacky '80s visuals, then throw in '70s disco/porn music for good measure, and you pretty much know what to expect from Gameloft's WiiWare offering.

Continue reading Wii Fanboy Review: Block Breaker Deluxe

JoystiqWii Fanboy Review: Block Breaker Deluxe originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 Jun 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionarkanoidblock-breaker-deluxebreakoutclonegameloftjoystiqfeaturespongpuzzleWed, 18 Jun 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Searching for more than words in Nintendo's latest demo offerings]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/17/searching-for-more-than-words-in-nintendos-latest-demo-offering/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/17/searching-for-more-than-words-in-nintendos-latest-demo-offering/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/17/searching-for-more-than-words-in-nintendos-latest-demo-offering/#commentsFiled under:

This week was a bit of a let down in terms of demos -- then again, it's hard to follow up the excitement of Arkanoid. It seems like Nintendo didn't even try, though. While we were interested in the demo the first time around, Cake Mania 2 already had its heyday. Then, there's Rayman Raving Rabbids 2, which we can't help but be underwhelmed by. Last and maybe least, the only other new demo is from Crosswords DS, which now offers the wordsearch game in addition to crossword puzzles. We guess beggars can't be choosers.

Since things always look better in list form, check out the full list of demos available for download after the break.

Continue reading Searching for more than words in Nintendo's latest demo offerings

JoystiqSearching for more than words in Nintendo's latest demo offerings originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Jun 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkanoidbrain-agebrain-age-2cake-mania-2crosswordscrosswords-dsdemosflash-focusnintendo-channelrayman-raving-rabids-2wordsearchTue, 17 Jun 2008 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DS releases for the week of June 16th]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/16/ds-releases-for-the-week-of-june-16th/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/16/ds-releases-for-the-week-of-june-16th/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/16/ds-releases-for-the-week-of-june-16th/#commentsFiled under:


What a fabulous week! We've got breaking, cooking, exploring, invading, and so much more, in all the major regions! If it's all a little painful on the wallet, well ... the last few months have been lighter on releases, and now we're gearing up for summer -- and the DS just went from zero to sixty in nothing flat.
  • Arkanoid DS
  • Code Lyoko: Fall of X.A.N.A.
  • Etrian Odyssey II: Heroes of Lagaard
  • Imagine Rock Star
  • Petz: Dogz Fashion
  • Space Invaders Extreme
  • Tamagotchi Connection: Corner Shop 3
  • Wacky Races: Crash & Dash

Continue reading DS releases for the week of June 16th

JoystiqDS releases for the week of June 16th originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 16 Jun 2008 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkanoidcode-lyokocooking-guideetrian-odyssey-2junereleasesspace-invaders-extremeMon, 16 Jun 2008 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Essential Extras: Taito's paddle controller]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/16/essential-extras-taitos-paddle-controller/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/16/essential-extras-taitos-paddle-controller/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/16/essential-extras-taitos-paddle-controller/#commentsFiled under:

Let's just get this out of the way first thing: the import paddle controller works on the U.S. versions of Arkanoid and Space Invaders Extreme in both the DS Lite and Phat. But with that answered at last, the question that remains is: should you go to the trouble of importing the Japan-exclusive peripheral?

We've been test-driving both titles, with the paddle and without, and it definitely adds to the experience. Arkanoid without the paddle is fun, but not terribly engaging, and seems like the kind of game that would work only as a temporary diversion. For a budget title, that's fine! But with the addition of the paddle -- which turns the purchase into something decidedly not budget -- Arkanoid really comes to life as an exciting way to spend some time with your DS.

Continue reading Essential Extras: Taito's paddle controller

JoystiqEssential Extras: Taito's paddle controller originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 16 Jun 2008 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcadearkanoidessential-extrasjoystiqfeaturespaddlespace-invaders-extremesquare-enixtaitoMon, 16 Jun 2008 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Taito game screens invade our weekend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/14/taito-game-screens-invade-our-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/14/taito-game-screens-invade-our-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/14/taito-game-screens-invade-our-weekend/#commentsFiled under:


Space Invaders Extreme and Arkanoid DS come out next week, at which point we'll be able to look at the equivalent of thousands of screenshots every minute as we actually play the games. Until then, we've got some more screens of both games to enjoy, courtesy of a Square Enix press release. In case you want to stare at boxart (which means that this is probably directed at DS Fanboy staff), we have high-resolution images of both.

On the subject of the boxart, we just noticed that both games' logos use variations of the same font. The things you learn when you ... hastily composite a box image!


JoystiqTaito game screens invade our weekend originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 14 Jun 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkanoidbreakoutpuzzleshooterspace-invaders-extremesquare-enixtaitoSat, 14 Jun 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ponder the paddle as you watch Space Invaders Extreme videos]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/ponder-the-paddle-as-you-watch-space-invaders-extreme-videos/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/ponder-the-paddle-as-you-watch-space-invaders-extreme-videos/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/ponder-the-paddle-as-you-watch-space-invaders-extreme-videos/#commentsFiled under:


Space Invaders Extreme is out next week, at which point we'll be able to put paddle speculation to rest. The Arkanoid DS demo found on the Nintendo Channel doesn't support Taito's paddle controller, but, it turns out, neither did the Japanese demo. That means it's still possible for the retail Arkanoid and its contemporary to include paddle support -- don't offload your paddles on eBay just yet. Besides, Square Enix told Game|Life in April that the U.S. games would still support the paddle, though of course that could have changed!

We can confirm that these two Space Invaders Extreme videos are awesome. We have proof: the awesome videos. Two minutes of single-player gameplay are in the video above; a multiplayer video, featuring a different musical track, follows after the post break.

Continue reading Ponder the paddle as you watch Space Invaders Extreme videos

JoystiqPonder the paddle as you watch Space Invaders Extreme videos originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Jun 2008 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkanoidpaddleretroshooterspace-invaders-extremesquare-enixtaitoThu, 12 Jun 2008 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Daily: Does the lack of paddle support make you rethink your purchase?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/ds-daily-does-the-lack-of-paddle-support-make-you-rethink-your/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/ds-daily-does-the-lack-of-paddle-support-make-you-rethink-your/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/ds-daily-does-the-lack-of-paddle-support-make-you-rethink-your/#commentsFiled under:

For us, the lack of paddle support in the demo for Arkanoid DS has us rethinking whether or not we're going to pick up the game, as a lot of the appeal for us was being able to play with the awesome paddle. Now, we're kind of forced to wait and see.

What about you all? Feel the same way? Are you already settled, either way, on what you're going to do?

JoystiqDS Daily: Does the lack of paddle support make you rethink your purchase? originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Jun 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkanoidjapanpaddlespace-invaders-extremetaitoTue, 10 Jun 2008 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[This just in: We might have imported a paddle controller for nothing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/this-just-in-we-imported-a-paddle-controller-for-nothing/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/this-just-in-we-imported-a-paddle-controller-for-nothing/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/this-just-in-we-imported-a-paddle-controller-for-nothing/#commentsFiled under:


Grab a box of Kleenex or, if that's not an option, your shirt's sleeve. You see, we just went to check out the new DS demos available for download on the Nintendo Channel and found only one: Arkanoid DS. No, no, that's not the sad part at all. The sad part is what happened when we downloaded the demo.

Upon getting it onto our DS and booting the demo up, we prepared for a wonderful time with our imported paddle controller, as it's been sitting on our work space's desk for a couple weeks now while we anticipated the release of Arkanoid DS and Space Invaders Extreme. But, after booting up the demo, we found the title only supports two control schemes: stylus and d-pad. Talk about d'oh!

What will this mean for the final build of the game? Will it also not include support for the paddle controller? It looks like that will be the case, but what about Space Invaders Extreme? Should we expect the same fate for that title?


JoystiqThis just in: We might have imported a paddle controller for nothing originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Jun 2008 13:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkanoiddemosnintendo-channelpaddlesad-sad-newsspace-invaders-extremesquare-enixtaitoMon, 09 Jun 2008 13:34:00 EST<![CDATA[New, colorful demo this week on the Nintendo Channel]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/new-colorful-demo-this-week-on-the-nintendo-channel/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/new-colorful-demo-this-week-on-the-nintendo-channel/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/new-colorful-demo-this-week-on-the-nintendo-channel/#commentsFiled under:

There's only one new demo available on the Wii's Nintendo Channel, but it's a title we've been wanting to try for a long time. If you guessed Space Invaders Extreme, well, we wish. It is the next best thing that Taito and Square Enix have to offer, though: Arkanoid DS. Should you happen to be unfamiliar with Arkanoid, we have to ask -- where have you been the last twenty years? In all seriousness, we're sure you've encountered this Taito classic in some form or other, which involves breaking blocks pong-style.

We have our DS-Fanboy-branded scientific lab monkeys trying out the demo as we speak, so we'll be sure to deliver some impressions soon for those of you without Wiis.

The other games available are essentially the same from last week. Here they are in list form:
  • Brain Age 2
  • Brain Age
  • Flash Focus
  • Crosswords DS
  • Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End
  • Worms: Open Warfare 2
  • High School Musical: Makin' the Cut!
  • The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor
  • Arkanoid DS

JoystiqNew, colorful demo this week on the Nintendo Channel originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Jun 2008 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkanoidarkanoid-dsdemonintendo-channelMon, 09 Jun 2008 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Space Invaders Extreme and Arkanoid websites are polar opposites]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/space-invaders-extreme-and-arkanoid-websites-are-polar-opposites/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/space-invaders-extreme-and-arkanoid-websites-are-polar-opposites/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/space-invaders-extreme-and-arkanoid-websites-are-polar-opposites/#commentsFiled under: ,


Both the Arkanoid DS and Space Invaders Extreme websites went live yesterday, and they couldn't be more different. Going to the Arkanoid website is like going to a Saturday brunch with your mother, while going to the SIE site is like hitting up a night club twelve hours later, staying out until 5 AM, and puking up everything you've had to drink before bedtime (we mean that in the best of ways).

If you want something more descriptive than a simile, the Arkanoid site is cleaner and more organized than its Invaders counterpart (and it's also silent), but we think that may be because there's no "Extreme" in its title to live up to. Those who prefer trippy visuals and loud music on their web browsers, though, should head on over to the SIE page (consider this a sound alert for those of you in "not safe for audio" workspaces). If you've visited the Japanese website for this title before, you'll know what to expect, as it's exactly the same.

As it stands, there's not much to do on either site except read about the games. We were hoping that little demos or browser games would be present, but alas, our wants were denied.

At least we'll see the real things in only two weeks.



[Via press release]

Source: Arkanoid DS official website
Source: Space Invaders Extreme official website

JoystiqSpace Invaders Extreme and Arkanoid websites are polar opposites originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Jun 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkanoidofficial-websitesiespace-invadersspace-invaders-extremesquare-enixtaitowebsiteWed, 04 Jun 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Space Invaders Extreme and Arkanoid DS in a color explosion]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/space-invaders-extreme-and-arkanoid-ds-in-a-color-explosion/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/space-invaders-extreme-and-arkanoid-ds-in-a-color-explosion/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/space-invaders-extreme-and-arkanoid-ds-in-a-color-explosion/#commentsFiled under: ,

Taking a look at these new Space Invaders Extreme and Arkanoid DS screens, it's clear that the games are going to be nothing short of trippy. We can't wait. It's unfortunate that those of us outside of Japan will have to import the paddle controller, but that's just a small price to pay for such a tantalizing pair -- we're just grateful we don't have to import the software, too.

Square Enix also announced the European release date for these titles, which is July 4th. Luckily (for this blogger), those of us in the U.S. and Canada won't have to wait as long to get these in our greedy little hands, as the North American date is June 17th.

Browsing through our galleries will give you a taste of the craziness that is SIE, while the Arkanoid DS pictures will show you some of its cool-shaped levels. We're definitely more stoked for the former, but maybe that's just us. How about you? Which revamped Taito classic are you looking forward to more?



[Via press release]

JoystiqSpace Invaders Extreme and Arkanoid DS in a color explosion originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 May 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkanoideuropesiespace-invadersspace-invaders-extremesquare-enixsqueenixtaitoTue, 20 May 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Daily: Tough choices]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/09/ds-daily-tough-choices/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/09/ds-daily-tough-choices/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/09/ds-daily-tough-choices/#commentsFiled under:

The next few months will be filled with a lot a great releases -- perhaps too many. Super Dodgeball Brawlers, Bangai-O Spirits, Final Fantasy Tactics A2, Etrian Odyssey II, Space Invaders Extreme, Arkanoid DS, Rondo of Swords, Jake Hunter: Detective Chronicles, Harvest Moon: Island of Happiness, and The World Ends With You are just a few that we can name on the spot, and all of these will be out before July starts.

Unless you have abundant amounts of currency, though, you probably can't afford to buy that many games in such a short period of time. Also, money isn't the only problem. Supposing that you could afford everything you wanted, you wouldn't even have the time to play them all.

Narrowing down the field is tough, but necessary. What games that are coming out in the next three months do you consider must gets? And they don't have to be chosen from the games listed above, so go nuts.

JoystiqDS Daily: Tough choices originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Apr 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkanoidbangai-obangai-o-spiritsetrian-odyssey-2etrian-odyssey-iiffta2final-fantasy-tactics-a2harvest-moonHarvest-Moon-DS-Island-of-Happinessheroes-of-lagaardisland-of-happinessjake-hunterjake-hunter-detectiv...Marvelous-InteractiveNatsumerondo-of-swordsSimulationspace-invaders-extremesuper-dodgeball-braw...wewyworld-ends-with-youWed, 09 Apr 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Fanboy poll: Our paddle predicament]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/08/ds-fanboy-poll-our-paddle-predicament/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/08/ds-fanboy-poll-our-paddle-predicament/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/08/ds-fanboy-poll-our-paddle-predicament/#commentsFiled under:

So that's it: Taito's amazing paddle controller won't be leaving Japan. But really, if Square Enix thinks we're going to take this lying down, and be forced to play Space Invaders Extreme and Arkanoid sans paddle, then it can think again.

We're over the initial shock now, beyond the tears and the tantrums punching walls in a really manly fashion, and we're thinking about the future with a clear head. At the next possible opportunity, we're importing a paddle controller. We've not even played Arkanoid or Space Invaders Extreme yet, but we're utterly convinced that these games need this peripheral. What about you lot?

View Poll

JoystiqDS Fanboy poll: Our paddle predicament originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 Apr 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkanoidpaddlepollspace-invaderssquare-enixtaitoTue, 08 Apr 2008 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Arkanoid DS headed up North American creek without a paddle]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/03/arkanoid-ds-headed-up-north-american-creek-without-a-paddle/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/03/arkanoid-ds-headed-up-north-american-creek-without-a-paddle/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/03/arkanoid-ds-headed-up-north-american-creek-without-a-paddle/#commentsFiled under: , ,

paddle lost
The thrill of pinching that tiny, twisty knob between your thumb and forefinger, guiding your sliver of a "space vessel" as you protect its only companion, a dot, capable of utmost destruction, but ultimately helpless, has been lost, abandoned. Taito will ship Arkanoid DS to North America on June 17 without its protruding peripheral, banking on a $19.99 budget price to sell the antiquated, breakout formula. True 'Noidians will have to double the investment and turn to import retailers to assemble the authentic experience -- currently, only available in pink.

More promising is Taito's Space Invaders Extreme, a "re-imaged" version of the original, which reminds us a lot of last year's excellent Pac-Man CE for XBLA -- both touching up fundamental elements with a contemporary aesthetic. Space Invaders Extreme will be released alongside Arkanoid DS on June 17 for $19.99, and will be available for DS and PSP.

Gallery: Arkanoid DS


Gallery: Space Invaders Extreme

JoystiqArkanoid DS headed up North American creek without a paddle originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Apr 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkanoidarkanoid-dsDSpaddle-controller-dsPSPspace-invadersspace-invaders-extremesquare-enixtaitoThu, 03 Apr 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[So the paddle isn't coming to North America?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/02/so-the-paddle-isnt-coming-to-north-america-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/02/so-the-paddle-isnt-coming-to-north-america-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/02/so-the-paddle-isnt-coming-to-north-america-now/#commentsFiled under: ,

Okay, we're confused.

It looks like, based on a press release that got sent out today, that the paddle controller that came bundled with Arkanoid DS in Japan won't be seeing a release in North America. That is, basically, an unforgiveable crime. Seriously, why would you even want to try to play the game without it?

Another notable tidbit of info from the press release is a confirmation that both games will be budget priced at $19.99, which will help shoulder some of the cost of having to import the paddle controller (sadly, Play Asia only has pink paddles in stock anymore, so you'll have to wait or settle for that color). Both games are slated for a June 17th release this year.


JoystiqSo the paddle isn't coming to North America? originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Apr 2008 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkanoidnorth-americapaddlespace-invaders-extremetaitousaWed, 02 Apr 2008 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Downtrodden Taito U.S. employee confirms Arkanoid and Space Invaders]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/31/downtrodden-taito-u-s-employee-confirms-arkanoid-and-space-inva/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/31/downtrodden-taito-u-s-employee-confirms-arkanoid-and-space-inva/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/31/downtrodden-taito-u-s-employee-confirms-arkanoid-and-space-inva/#commentsFiled under:

With the boxarts, prices, and release dates on Gamestop's website, it seems like a pretty sure bet that Space Invaders Extreme and Arkanoid DS will indeed be published by Square Enix in North America. However, in the absence of an official press release like the one that just came out for Europe, we could use all the confirmation we can get. Two recent bits of information help cement the notion that these games really will come out.

First, Arkanoid has finally joined Invaders as a game rated by the ESRB. The E rating has finally shown up on the ratings board's website, indicating that it is planned for release. Second, Keiji Fujita, the sole Taito rep in the U.S., confirmed it directly in a Gamasutra interview. "Arkanoid was released last year in Japan, and Space Invaders Extreme [was released in February]. In fact, these two games will be published by Square Enix in the United States." Since they're being published by Square Enix, though, Fujita has nothing to do with them -- with the only Taito console games to come out this year.

If we want more Taito games (and we do), then we should maybe consider buying at least one of these two. Fujita said that the future of Taito games, at least as published by Square Enix, hinges on the success of Invaders and Arkanoid.

JoystiqDowntrodden Taito U.S. employee confirms Arkanoid and Space Invaders originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkanoidbreakoutclassicesrbshooterspace-invaders-extremesquare-enixtaitoMon, 31 Mar 2008 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Arkanoid screens make the waiting harder]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/28/arkanoid-screens-make-the-waiting-harder/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/28/arkanoid-screens-make-the-waiting-harder/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/28/arkanoid-screens-make-the-waiting-harder/#commentsFiled under: ,

If you're trying to hold out any time a sale pops up, or you just happen to find yourself browsing one of many online retailers from which you could easily pick it up, finger hesitating over that "add to cart" button, then we're not helping. And listen, we're sorry, but there are new Arkanoid screens, and then old screens in the gallery, and what were we supposed to do? Ignore them? We're suffering as much as you are.

JoystiqArkanoid screens make the waiting harder originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 28 Mar 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkanoidbreakoutgallerytaitoFri, 28 Mar 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Import your games for cheap during Play-Asia's Easter Egg Sale]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/27/import-your-games-for-cheap-during-play-asias-easter-egg-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/27/import-your-games-for-cheap-during-play-asias-easter-egg-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/27/import-your-games-for-cheap-during-play-asias-easter-egg-sale/#commentsFiled under:

If you're keen on importing games, it seems like there's no better time than now. Play-Asia is having an "Easter Egg Sale," which means that all in-stock items that weren't released in the past thirty days are 20% off. The sale ends on March 31st, but you might not even want to wait that long, as items are going out of stock quickly. Some games that might be worth picking up:

Feel free to add any of your own import recommendations in the comments below.

[Via CAG]

JoystiqImport your games for cheap during Play-Asia's Easter Egg Sale originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 27 Mar 2008 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archaic-sealed-heatarkanoidASHchoushoujuu-mecha-mgdaigasso-band-brotherseaster-egg-saleouendan-2paddleplay-asiapower-pro-baseballtaikotaiko-drum-mastertaiko-no-tatsujinThu, 27 Mar 2008 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix confirms awesome trio for Europe [update 2]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/27/square-confirms-awesome-trio-of-titles-for-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/27/square-confirms-awesome-trio-of-titles-for-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/27/square-confirms-awesome-trio-of-titles-for-europe/#commentsFiled under:

Update 2: And now any mention of the paddle peripheral has disappeared again from our press release! We're confused as can be at the moment, but we're contacting Square Enix for clarification ... now. Stay tuned!

Update: Silly us, we totally overlooked some critical parts of the press release. It mentions an "optional paddle controller" for Arkanoid DS, which causes us to think the game could release in a bundle including the peripheral. We've also included the full press release past the post break.

Oh, happy days!

Square Enix just confirmed a tremendous triumvirate of releases for Europe, with Space Invaders Extreme, Arkanoid, and Final Fantasy Tactics A2: Grimoire of the Rift all due in the region this summer.

Fantastic news, but there are two questions we urgently need answering. One: will the two Taito titles enjoy the same budget price that looks likely for the U.S. release? And two: will we be getting the wonderful paddle controller for said games? We can't think of any reason why we shouldn't receive such a peripheral, but the lack of an announcement is concerning.



[Via press release]

Continue reading Square Enix confirms awesome trio for Europe [update 2]

JoystiqSquare Enix confirms awesome trio for Europe [update 2] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 27 Mar 2008 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkanoideuropeffta2final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-tacticsremakeretroshmupshooterspace-invaders-extremesquare-enixsrpgtaitoThu, 27 Mar 2008 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Checking out the first Arkanoid DS TV spot]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/25/checking-out-the-first-arkanoid-ds-tv-spot/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/25/checking-out-the-first-arkanoid-ds-tv-spot/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/25/checking-out-the-first-arkanoid-ds-tv-spot/#commentsFiled under:


As you all know, we're dying to get our hands on Arkanoid DS. We've also kept our fingers crossed for months, hoping the game would be localized to our region. In the meanwhile, the latest TV spot for the game from Japan will have to keep our incredible desire to play this (and use its very kickass paddle peripheral) at bay.

[Via Go Nintendo and GamePressure]

JoystiqChecking out the first Arkanoid DS TV spot originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Feb 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkanoidjapanpaddletvMon, 25 Feb 2008 21:00:00 EST