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[The Legend of Heroes: Trails in the Sky flying high after shipping 200,000 units]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/the-legend-of-heroes-trails-in-the-sky-flying-high-after-shippi/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/the-legend-of-heroes-trails-in-the-sky-flying-high-after-shippi/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/the-legend-of-heroes-trails-in-the-sky-flying-high-after-shippi/#comments The Legend of Heroes: Trails in the Sky was first released on PSP for Japan in October 2006, and for North America in March of this year, and has since steadily soared to 200,000 units shipped.

Trails in the Sky began with a humble shipment of only 30,000, solidifying the game's status as an unexpected hit. Not to be outdone, the upcoming sequel, titled Trails of Blue, has passed 200,000 pre-orders in advance of its September release in Japan.

JoystiqThe Legend of Heroes: Trails in the Sky flying high after shipping 200,000 units originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Aug 2011 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandaifalcomJapanplaystationpspsonythe-legend-of-heroes-trails-in-the-skyxseedFri, 19 Aug 2011 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[So, uh, what's an 'Ar Tonelico Qoga: Knell of Ar Ciel' anyway?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/ar-tonelico-qoga-name-explanation/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/ar-tonelico-qoga-name-explanation/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/ar-tonelico-qoga-name-explanation/#comments As you know, our primary goal here at Joystiq is to provide you with a thorough, clear, and contextualized picture of video game news. It's with that in mind that we asked NIS America to explain the ... somewhat bizarre name of its forthcoming RPG, Ar Tonelico Qoga: Knell of Ar Ciel.

We've been ribbing the game's title internally for some time now. And hey, can you blame us? It's nigh indecipherable! A NIS representative described the title as a "jumble of seemingly random letters," so we're not exactly alone in this. Anyway, NIS America reps kindly provided us with the breakdown of name that you see below, presented unedited:
"Break down for Ar Tonelico Qoga: Knell of Ar Ciel:

'Qoga' means "finale" or 'termination.'
'Knell' is like a chime that signals the passing of someone or something.
'Ar Ciel' is a name of a world.
'Ar Tonelico' is an artificial world tree (Yggdrasill).

We wanted to use 'Knell' to indicate that this is the finale of the series because 'chime the signals the passing of something' is [the] perfect way of expressing the finale of [the] Ar Tonelico series."
Still confused? We were too. Thankfully, NIS reps escalated their efforts several steps further, offering a detailed explanation -- as well as a bit of sympathy to confused readers -- directly from script writer Steven Carlton. "Many people may look at the title Ar Tonelico Qoga: Knell of Ar Ciel and wonder what that jumble of seemingly random letters means," Carlton told us. "There are a few key terms from the game in the title, mainly Ar Tonelico and Ar Ciel."

Gallery: Ar Tonelico Qoga: Knell of Ar Ciel (PS3)

Continue reading So, uh, what's an 'Ar Tonelico Qoga: Knell of Ar Ciel' anyway?

JoystiqSo, uh, what's an 'Ar Tonelico Qoga: Knell of Ar Ciel' anyway? originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Feb 2011 14:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Ar-Tonelico-Qogabandaigustnamconamco-bandainis-americaplaystationps3steven-carltonTue, 15 Feb 2011 14:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Bandai is in charge of all video game box art from now on]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/03/bandai-is-in-charge-of-all-video-game-box-art-from-now-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/03/bandai-is-in-charge-of-all-video-game-box-art-from-now-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/03/bandai-is-in-charge-of-all-video-game-box-art-from-now-on/#comments We're not sure if it's too soon to name our 2011 Game of the Year, but we're awfully tempted to just go ahead and give it to Bandai's DS soon-to-be-classic, Fly Mr. Science. Based solely on the box art alone (the full version of which is posted below), we can tell it's going to be ... important.

Continue reading Bandai is in charge of all video game box art from now on

JoystiqBandai is in charge of all video game box art from now on originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Dec 2010 16:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandaibox-artdsfly-mr-sciencejapannightmaresnintendoFri, 03 Dec 2010 16:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Enslaved DLC trailer explores Pigsy's motives]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/30/enslaved-dlc-trailer-explores-pigsys-motives/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/30/enslaved-dlc-trailer-explores-pigsys-motives/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/30/enslaved-dlc-trailer-explores-pigsys-motives/#comments If it wasn't clear why everyone says Enslaved: Odyssey to the West has great voice acting, the latest trailer for its upcoming DLC, starring the game's playable sidekick Pigsy, shows it off at its best. Head past the break to see for yourself.

Continue reading Enslaved DLC trailer explores Pigsy's motives

JoystiqEnslaved DLC trailer explores Pigsy's motives originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 30 Oct 2010 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandaidlcenslavedenslaved-odyssey-to-the-westmicrosoftnamconamco-bandaininja-theorypigsypigsys-perfect-10playstationps3xboxSat, 30 Oct 2010 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead to Rights: Retribution trailer enforces slow-mo justice]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/23/dead-to-rights-retribution-trailer-enforces-slow-mo-justice/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/23/dead-to-rights-retribution-trailer-enforces-slow-mo-justice/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/23/dead-to-rights-retribution-trailer-enforces-slow-mo-justice/#comments
Namco's marketing department must have really gotten a kick out of that 300 movie, because the latest trailer for its upcoming Turner & Hooch adaptation, Dead to Rights: Retribution, is chock full of the slow-mo. It's not that we're complaining; a lady falling from the top of a skyscraper or beating the crap out of a group of similarly uniformed thugs is made infinitely better through the tactful use of slow-mo.

That part's fine -- what we still have trouble with is protagonist (and police officer) Jack Slate's inability to value human life. Sure, these guys are criminals, but that doesn't mean you have to do some weird wrestling move that breaks their neck and kills them dead, right? Since when did a can of mace and the Miranda rights stop being standard procedure?

JoystiqDead to Rights: Retribution trailer enforces slow-mo justice originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Mar 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandaidead-to-rightsdead-to-rights-retributionMicrosoftnamconamco-bandaivolatile-gamesXbox-360Tue, 23 Mar 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Clash of the Titans screens highlight multi-headed beasts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/11/clash-of-the-titans-screens-highlight-multi-headed-beasts/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/11/clash-of-the-titans-screens-highlight-multi-headed-beasts/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/11/clash-of-the-titans-screens-highlight-multi-headed-beasts/#comments
Click image to fetch some more screens

If you think our last batch of screens depicted some ugly creatures from Namco Bandai's upcoming Clash of the Titans, then we guess this latest round of shots are par for the course. Featuring several screens of the multi-headed nasty you see above, our gallery below is a veritable playground of potential nightmare inducers. This beast is like a smaller, more nimble version of Cerberus from Devil May Cry 3. Maybe a bit less chilly, too.

Anyway, feel free to hit up the gallery below for the new screens.

Gallery: Clash of the Titans (3/10/2010)

JoystiqClash of the Titans screens highlight multi-headed beasts originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Mar 2010 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adaptationbandaibrashclash-of-the-titansgame-republiclicensedmoviesnamconamco-bandaiThu, 11 Mar 2010 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Stadium Events auction hits an unbelievable $800K]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/02/stadium-events-auction-hits-an-unbelievable-800k/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/02/stadium-events-auction-hits-an-unbelievable-800k/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/02/stadium-events-auction-hits-an-unbelievable-800k/#comments
[VGMuseum]
First, a mom hit the jackpot when one of the random games she was selling with an old NES turned out to be Bandai's super-rare Stadium Events, which went on eBay for $13.105. Following the excitement about that auction, someone else sold their sealed copy of the NES exercise game (which you've most likely played under its other name, World Class Track Meet) for a staggering $41,300. And then it got ridiculous.

Seller acuraboi12's sealed Stadium Events reached a high bid of $800,200. Unfortunately for acuraboi12, we doubt that's anything but a joke bid. We may be in the midst of an odd Stadium Events gold rush, but that is beyond excessive, considering that the previous $41,300 was the highest known price commanded by an NES game to date. Not even Bubble Bath Babes could command $800k, and it's got nudity.

[Thanks, NiteOwl]

JoystiqStadium Events auction hits an unbelievable $800K originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Mar 2010 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctionbandaiDSebayNintendoretrostadium-eventsWiiTue, 02 Mar 2010 10:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Japan getting God Eater sampling platter November 26]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/05/japan-getting-god-eater-sampling-platter-november-26/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/05/japan-getting-god-eater-sampling-platter-november-26/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/05/japan-getting-god-eater-sampling-platter-november-26/#comments We like to consider ourselves open-minded when it comes to new culinary experiences, but we confess that we've never had the occasion to dine upon a god. We've heard that it's a delicious (and sizable!) meal -- in fact, on the latest episode of No Reservations, Anthony Bourdain described god-meat as being "light and airy, like aged pork, but with divine properties." Japanese gamers (or PSP owners with a loose comprehension of the Japanese language) will be able to find out for themselves when a demo for God Eater launches on November 26.

The demo for the Namco Bandai-developed action-RPG will be fairly substantial, offering 10 missions, character customization and a small sliver of the game's opening story sequence. It will also support four player co-op in the demo's non-tutorial missions. The demo will be added to the Japanese PSN on Thanksgiving and will also be available on the game's official site. Between those two options, we're sure you'll find some way to snack on a few celestial entities later this month.

JoystiqJapan getting God Eater sampling platter November 26 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 14:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandaidemogod-eaterjapannamconamco-bandaipsnrelease-dateThu, 05 Nov 2009 14:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Dragonball: Tenkaichi Daibouken revealed ... and it's a side-scroller]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/21/dragonball-tenkaichi-daibouken-revealed-and-its-a-side-scro/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/21/dragonball-tenkaichi-daibouken-revealed-and-its-a-side-scro/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/21/dragonball-tenkaichi-daibouken-revealed-and-its-a-side-scro/#comments The Wii is seeing a revival of the classic side-scroller -- with 3D trimmings. Siliconera has shed more light on Bandai's latest Dragonball -- Tenkaichi Daibouken -- which follows in the leaping, bounding footsteps of "2.5D" titles such as Klonoa and New Play Control! Donkey Kong Jungle Beat.

The game is (to no one's surprise, we'd imagine) cel-shaded -- and looking quite sharp, as the above screenshot implies. It stars young Goku and is based on the earliest pre-"Z" Dragonball material. You can catch a glimpse of gameplay on the game's Flash-based Japanese site (if you don't mind giant kanji characters obscuring some of it). Neither Namco Bandai nor Atari has laid claim to a US release, but that may very well change come E3.

[Via Siliconera]

JoystiqDragonball: Tenkaichi Daibouken revealed ... and it's a side-scroller originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 21 May 2009 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandaidragonballdragonball-tenkaichi-daiboukenThu, 21 May 2009 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Joyswag: Klonoa (and his hat) [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/08/joyswag-klonoa-and-his-hat/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/08/joyswag-klonoa-and-his-hat/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/08/joyswag-klonoa-and-his-hat/#comments
Update: Sorry, folks, but the giveaway has ended. Keep an eye on your email inbox and thanks for playing!

Namco Bandai sent us a new copy of Klonoa for the Wii, along with the titular character's hat (Twitterholics, you may have already seen an image of the hat here). If you want to get in on this action, then follow these easy steps below!
  • Leave a comment telling us where you will wear your new hat first
  • 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 2:59 pm ET on Thursday, May 14
  • At that time, we'll randomly select one winner to receive Klonoa for Wii ($30)
  • For a list of complete rules, click here
Thanks for reading and best of luck to you all!

Gallery: Klonoa (Wii)

JoystiqJoyswag: Klonoa (and his hat) [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 May 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandaijoyswagklonoaklonoa-door-to-phantomilenamconamco-bandaiFri, 08 May 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Namco unleashes flurry of Klonoa clips]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/29/namco-chooses-quantity-over-quality-with-latest-klonoa-trailers/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/29/namco-chooses-quantity-over-quality-with-latest-klonoa-trailers/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/29/namco-chooses-quantity-over-quality-with-latest-klonoa-trailers/#commentsNamco Bandai sent us a slew of new trailers for its upcoming game, Klonoa. The content within each video is pretty much the same: platforming, platforming, and more platforming. Good thing that's something Klonoa fans like most about the series, right? Head past the break to check out 5 more videos from the upcoming Wiimake.

Continue reading Namco unleashes flurry of Klonoa clips

JoystiqNamco unleashes flurry of Klonoa clips originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Apr 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandaiklonoaklonoa-door-to-phantomilenamconamco-bandaiWed, 29 Apr 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Even The Munchables couldn't eat all of this new media]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/21/even-the-munchables-couldnt-eat-all-of-this-new-media/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/21/even-the-munchables-couldnt-eat-all-of-this-new-media/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/21/even-the-munchables-couldnt-eat-all-of-this-new-media/#commentsNamco-Bandai just sent us a bunch of new media for The Munchables, including a pair of trailers and several new screens (you can check them out in the gallery below). Namco-Bandai has described this as Pac-Man meets Katamari Damacy, but we're pretty sure that comparison is inaccurate. Instead, we'd say it has equal parts Pac-Man, Katamari Damacy, and Violet Beauregarde. Head past the break for the second trailer (and more addictive tunes).

Gallery: The Munchables (Wii)

Continue reading Even The Munchables couldn't eat all of this new media

JoystiqEven The Munchables couldn't eat all of this new media originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Apr 2009 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandainamconamco-bandaiNintendoscreensthe-munchablesvideoWiiTue, 21 Apr 2009 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live's exclusive Tekken 6 trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/21/xbox-lives-exclusive-tekken-6-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/21/xbox-lives-exclusive-tekken-6-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/21/xbox-lives-exclusive-tekken-6-trailer/#commentsAfter watching this Xbox Live-exclusive trailer for Tekken 6, we've come to realize a few things. For one, Paul Phoenix is still the most badass dude ever. Don't argue, you'll lose. Second, someone at Namco-Bandai should really proofread subtitles before they dish out a trailer, because there's a pretty hilarious bit of mangled English in the beginning. Finally, this trailer needs more Panda.

JoystiqXbox Live's exclusive Tekken 6 trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Apr 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandaifightingnamconamco-bandaitekkentekken-6Tue, 21 Apr 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Namco Bandai working on Gundam VOD service for PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/18/namco-bandai-working-on-gundam-vod-service-for-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/18/namco-bandai-working-on-gundam-vod-service-for-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/18/namco-bandai-working-on-gundam-vod-service-for-ps3/#comments
Gundam fans just might have a new way of rewatching the original series. According to Andriasang, Namco Bandai was showing off a prototype Gundam video-on-demand service for PS3 at the Tokyo International Anime Fair. It's called Gundam Viewchives and apparently won't be like any old VOD service, since it will allow users to view specific scenes and "keywords" in addition to whole episodes. The idea behind this is to create some sort of hybrid VOD/encyclopedia where Gundam fans can experience the series in a new way.

Users of the service can search through 400 keywords and look up detailed information, which will include a list of individual scenes relating to that keyword. There will be over 800 individual scenes taken from the original 43 episodes. Namco Bandai also plans to make the service a social experience featuring chat options with other fans.

Gundam Viewchives is currently still in the "research" stage. If something like this actually gets out the door and becomes a hit, imagine what other anime series could follow next. Perhaps it could spawn a grander initiative for other television series and ilk. We'll keep an eye on this one.

JoystiqNamco Bandai working on Gundam VOD service for PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 Mar 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandaigundamgundam-viewchivesnamco-bandaivideo-on-demandvodWed, 18 Mar 2009 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Namco's Klonoa remake releasing to Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/namcos-klonoa-remake-releasing-to-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/namcos-klonoa-remake-releasing-to-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/namcos-klonoa-remake-releasing-to-europe/#comments
Eurogamer reports that Namco's Klonoa remake will be making its way to Europe, likely putting a smile on a face or two along the way. Klonoa is an updated version of the original PSOne game, Klonoa: Door to Phantomile, and features a new control scheme that takes advantage of the capabilities of the Wiimote and Nunchuk, but will also include a classic control method for those who wish to ditch the waggle.

Klonoa is currently available in Japan and will make its way to North America sometime this spring. It'll arrive in Europe sometime this year.

Gallery: Klonoa (Wii)

JoystiqNamco's Klonoa remake releasing to Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Mar 2009 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandaiklonoaklonoa-door-to-phantomilenamconamco-bandaipsoneremakewiimakeFri, 06 Mar 2009 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Namco unleashes 4 new Klonoa trailers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/26/namco-unleashes-4-new-klonoa-trailers/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/26/namco-unleashes-4-new-klonoa-trailers/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/26/namco-unleashes-4-new-klonoa-trailers/#commentsFiled under:


Namco Bandai shot over some new videos for Klonoa and we must say they look rather good. Even though it's a remake of a PSOne game, we're still excited for this one. It looks like the platforming is going to be as fun as ever, and the updated graphics make it much easier on the eyes. Head past the break for three more videos, if the one above this text tickles your fancy.

Continue reading Namco unleashes 4 new Klonoa trailers

JoystiqNamco unleashes 4 new Klonoa trailers originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Jan 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandaiklonoaklonoa-door-to-phantomilenamconamco-bandaiplatformerMon, 26 Jan 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[We Ski and Snowboard and Look at New Screens]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/21/we-ski-and-snowboard-and-look-at-new-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/21/we-ski-and-snowboard-and-look-at-new-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/21/we-ski-and-snowboard-and-look-at-new-screens/#commentsFiled under:


Click image for new screens

Namco Bandai just sent off a bunch of new screens for Family Ski: World Ski & Snowboard. The screens feature everything from splitscreen gameplay down to penguins on skis. If you were wondering, yes, we do approve of penguins on skis. It defintely gets them around faster than walking and, boy, are they cute. Click on the image above or hit up the gallery below for the new screens.

JoystiqWe Ski and Snowboard and Look at New Screens originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Jan 2009 20:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandaifamily-skinamconamco-bandaiskiingsnowboardingsportswe-skiwe-ski-and-snowboardWed, 21 Jan 2009 20:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Fragile battle montage is very Hitchcockian]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/13/fragile-battle-montage-is-very-hitchcockian/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/13/fragile-battle-montage-is-very-hitchcockian/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/13/fragile-battle-montage-is-very-hitchcockian/#commentsFiled under:


Well, maybe not really, because there's only a brief segment at the tail end of this video for Fragile that shows several attacking birds on a sunny beach. The parts of the video leading up to that segment mainly focus on battling other creatures, such as glowing, floating jellyfish. Check it all out in the video above.

JoystiqFragile battle montage is very Hitchcockian originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Jan 2009 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandaibattlefragilenamconamco-bandairpgtri-crescendoTue, 13 Jan 2009 17:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Namco confirms Klonoa coming to North America ]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/09/namco-confirms-klonoa-coming-to-north-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/09/namco-confirms-klonoa-coming-to-north-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/09/namco-confirms-klonoa-coming-to-north-america/#commentsFiled under:


And it's doing away with that pesky subtitle Door to Phantomile. Yes, Namco's remake of the classic PSOne game will release in North America, as reported earlier, and will simply be titled Klonoa. Should be easy enough to remember.

All we have to go on right now is a 2009 release window. Namco hasn't specified an exact date within the year, but, hey, it's 2009 right now. Let's hope we get it sooner rather than later.

See also: Born for Wii: Klonoa 2: Lunatea's Veil


[Via press release]

JoystiqNamco confirms Klonoa coming to North America originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 Jan 2009 19:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandaidoor-to-phantomileklonoaklonoa-door-to-phantomilenamconamco-bandaiFri, 09 Jan 2009 19:10:00 EST<![CDATA[LittleBigPlanet skin coming to Lumines Supernova]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/05/littlebigplanet-skin-coming-to-lumines-supernova/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/05/littlebigplanet-skin-coming-to-lumines-supernova/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/05/littlebigplanet-skin-coming-to-lumines-supernova/#commentsFiled under:


Dengeki Online is reporting that Q-Entertainment will be collaborating with Media Molecule to create a LittleBigPlanet skin for Lumines Supernova, an upcoming PSN-exclusive title (read more about the game here). Not many too details have been announced, except that it will appear some time this winter. There are also three screenshots, which you can check out here.

[Via Kotaku]

JoystiqLittleBigPlanet skin coming to Lumines Supernova originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 05 Dec 2008 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandailittlebigplanetLumineslumines-supernovamedia-moleculeq-entertainmentFri, 05 Dec 2008 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[TGS 08 picture tour: Namco Bandai booth]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/15/tgs-08-picture-tour-namco-bandai-booth/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/15/tgs-08-picture-tour-namco-bandai-booth/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/15/tgs-08-picture-tour-namco-bandai-booth/#commentsFiled under: ,


click to enter
Namco Bandai was all about the anime games at TGS this year. That's counting playable builds of Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm, at least three Gundam titles, Macross Ace Frontier and Soul Eater. Other titles like the Idolm@ster PSP games were also a hit with the crowd, as huge queues snaked beyond the booth's perimeter. Get a closer look inside our Namco Bandai Booth Photo Tour.

JoystiqTGS 08 picture tour: Namco Bandai booth originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Oct 2008 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandaibooth-tournamconamco-bandaiTGStgs-2008Wed, 15 Oct 2008 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Namco bundles DVD with National Geographic Panda]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/30/namco-bundles-dvd-with-national-geographic-panda/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/30/namco-bundles-dvd-with-national-geographic-panda/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/30/namco-bundles-dvd-with-national-geographic-panda/#commentsFiled under: ,


Namco Bandai just dished out a press release about upcoming National Geographic Panda. With the game hitting U.S. retail shelves this fall, the prospect of playing with virtual pandas on your DS is not the only enticing aspect panda fans should be focusing on. All copies of the game will come packaged with a DVD titled Secrets of the Wild Panda. What is Secrets of the Wild Panda? Well, it's an hour-long special produced by National Geographic on the subject of, you guessed it, panda bears. So instead of just being a DS game full of cute pandas to play with, it also holds some educational value, as well.


[Via press release]

JoystiqNamco bundles DVD with National Geographic Panda originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 30 Sep 2008 18:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandainamconamco-bandainational-geographicnational-geographic-pandapandasecrets-of-the-wild-pandaTue, 30 Sep 2008 18:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Fragile trailer is more than solid]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/03/fragile-trailer-is-more-than-solid/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/03/fragile-trailer-is-more-than-solid/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/03/fragile-trailer-is-more-than-solid/#commentsFiled under: ,



Fragile continues to look like the most atmospheric Wii title since Samus did her thing. This short trailer doesn't contain much in the gameplay department, but what is there has a really eerie ambience to it. The haunting tune that plays as the beam from Seto's flashlight crawls across these desolate environments is perfect.

The official Fragile blog still has this listed for a 2008 release in Japan, and producer Kentaro Kawashima has promised us there will soon be news of a release date. Then it's time to start crossing everything for a western localization!


[Via Nintendo Everything]

JoystiqFragile trailer is more than solid originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Sep 2008 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandaifragilejrpgnamconamco-bandairpgruin-explorationtri-crescendoWed, 03 Sep 2008 15:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Fragile is the best-looking Wii game you'll see today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/31/fragile-is-the-best-looking-wii-game-youll-see-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/31/fragile-is-the-best-looking-wii-game-youll-see-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/31/fragile-is-the-best-looking-wii-game-youll-see-today/#commentsFiled under:


Click image to check out the new screens

Even though there are only four new screens of Namco Bandai's Fragile ~ Farewell Moon Ruins, their beauty warrants an update. Besides, we can't have been the only ones who thought of Yorda, of Ico fame, when we first clapped eyes on the slight, barefooted girl above (also seen here). We currently know nothing about this waifish character, though some Ico-style hand-in-hand gameplay wouldn't go amiss; Fragile's post-apocalyptic wasteland certainly seems like the ideal location for a bit of cooperation!


[Via Go Nintendo]

JoystiqFragile is the best-looking Wii game you'll see today originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 31 Jul 2008 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandaifragilejrpgnamconamco-bandairpgruin-explorationtri-crescendoThu, 31 Jul 2008 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Namco trademarks newest Tales name in North America]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/21/namco-trademarks-newest-tales-name-in-north-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/21/namco-trademarks-newest-tales-name-in-north-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/21/namco-trademarks-newest-tales-name-in-north-america/#commentsFiled under: ,


Fans of the Tales series, it would appear the possibility of the latest DS title, Tales of Hearts, to come to North America has become a bit more plausible. Thanks to Spencer over at Siliconera, we have word that Namco has trademarked the term for North America? Coincidence? We think not!

So, it would seem that eventually the game should be making its way to our shores. Until then, we'll just sit back, relax and wait for an official announcement.

JoystiqNamco trademarks newest Tales name in North America originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 Jul 2008 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandainamconamco-bandairpgtalestales-of-heartsMon, 21 Jul 2008 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[E308: Namco Bandai's Panda game dated for U.S.]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/17/e308-namco-bandais-panda-game-dated-for-u-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/17/e308-namco-bandais-panda-game-dated-for-u-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/17/e308-namco-bandais-panda-game-dated-for-u-s/#commentsFiled under: ,

The first English-language screens of Namco Bandai's National Geographic Panda have emerged from E3, as well as a North American release window of this fall. We also received a smattering of gameplay details, listed beneath the almost unforgivable title of "It's PANDA-MONIUM!"

According to these, the aim of the game is simply to rear your own Baby Panda or Giant Panda (you can tickle and play with them via the touchscreen, as you would a Nintendog), keeping them fed, clean, and happy during their time in Panda Park (which, incidentally, changes depending on whether you play at day or night).

To do this, you'll get a daily allowance which can be used for panda food or toys (such as ... gherkin-shaped see-saws?), and as you play more, further Baby Pandas will gradually begin to "move" into Panda Park, which is probably just Namco Bandai's way of avoiding the whole panda sex thing. Probably for the best.


[Via press release]

JoystiqE308: Namco Bandai's Panda game dated for U.S. originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 Jul 2008 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animalsbandaicutee3-2008e308namconamco-bandainational-geographicnational-geographic-pandapandaThu, 17 Jul 2008 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[National Geographic Pandas are no slackers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/14/national-geographic-pandas-are-no-slackers/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/14/national-geographic-pandas-are-no-slackers/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/14/national-geographic-pandas-are-no-slackers/#commentsFiled under: ,



We simply can't fault Namco Bandai's inspired decision to develop a game based on panda bears. When it comes to pandas, there is no universal divide in opinion (as there is with dogs and cats) -- everybody is a panda person. That kind of popularity can only be gained from being extremely cute and extremely rare.

Launching in Japan on July 31st, purchased copies of Panda-San Nikki (National Geographic Panda) will probably be anything but rare. That's because this game is freakin' adorable, as the latest screenshots in our gallery demonstrate. There are more pandas on see-saws, pandas trying to roll on a ball, pandas using a slide, pandas in hats -- in fact, Game Watch reckons there are over 800 animations (pandamations?) on display here. We always thought these wonderful creatures just sort of sat around, but they seem to be rather active!

JoystiqNational Geographic Pandas are no slackers originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Jul 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animalsbandaicutenamconamco-bandainational-geographicnational-geographic-pandapandaMon, 14 Jul 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ton of new Naruto gameplay vids readies us for July demo]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/ton-of-new-naruto-gameplay-vids-readies-us-for-july-demo/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/ton-of-new-naruto-gameplay-vids-readies-us-for-july-demo/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/ton-of-new-naruto-gameplay-vids-readies-us-for-july-demo/#commentsFiled under:

Here are seven gameplay vids from Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm, the upcoming PS3-exclusive, anime-ramen-ninja title. The visuals in this game, as we've said for the longest time now, look spectacular and we can't wait to try it out. In fact, it won't be too long before we can -- remember, there's an exclusive demo included with this month's issue of Qore. So, while you wait for the issue (should be out this Thursday, July 3), enjoy these vids to get you pumped up for the demo. Six more after the break.

Continue reading Ton of new Naruto gameplay vids readies us for July demo

JoystiqTon of new Naruto gameplay vids readies us for July demo originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Jul 2008 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandainamconarutoultimate-ninja-stormWed, 02 Jul 2008 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Say 'awww' to these new National Geographic Panda screens]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/07/say-awww-to-these-new-national-geographic-panda-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/07/say-awww-to-these-new-national-geographic-panda-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/07/say-awww-to-these-new-national-geographic-panda-screens/#commentsFiled under:

Seriously, if there was anything that could melt the heart of the most cold individual, it's images of a panda bear playing with a beach ball. And, we have just that, in our gallery below, courtesy of Namco Bandai.

We have to say, that with each new National Geographic Panda screen we're exposed to, our desire for the game grows. We just want to take care of cute little panda bears. Is that so wrong?


[Via press release]

JoystiqSay 'awww' to these new National Geographic Panda screens originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 07 Jun 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandainamconamco-bandainational-geographicnational-geographic-pandapandaSat, 07 Jun 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[99 Tears Vs. 96 Tears]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/99-tears-vs-96-tears/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/99-tears-vs-96-tears/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/99-tears-vs-96-tears/#commentsFiled under: ,



Remember that time you spent fifteen minutes on all fours on the kitchen floor, violently bawling your eyes out over the final, bitter departure of a loved one, or the sudden death of your dog in a road accident? Good times, right? Well, 99 no Namida (Tears of 99) will be aiming to replicate those surges of emotion throughout Japan from tomorrow, when the sob-inducing game gets released. It's intended to be for your own health, apparently.

In case you somehow doubted the game's efficacy in making you blubber through one of its 200 short stories, Namco Bandai has attempted to scientifically prove just how much inner turmoil the title can generate. The pie charts above came about after the company conducted a survey of 500 people to highlight the effectiveness of 99 no Namida.

And this is where it gets a bit obscure. We know that the white areas in the pie charts represent people who didn't cry, and the dark blue indicates those who cried heavily. We also know that the right chart depicts the proportion of people who cried while playing 99 no Namida, while the left chart displays how many cried when ... well, we're not actually sure, but the headline does reference 1960s rock and roll band Question Mark & The Mysterians and their song "96 Tears." Man, beats us.

Whatever the first chart represents, the central message remains the same: 99 no Namida will make the majority of players cry big, salty tears. Now weep your sad selves into our gallery for six new shots.

Joystiq99 Tears Vs. 96 Tears originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Jun 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>99-no-namidabandaicryjapannamconamco-bandainon-gameshort-storytears-of-99Wed, 04 Jun 2008 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Slew of SNK titles, along with Dig Dug, get rated by ESRB]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/slew-of-snk-titles-along-with-dig-dug-get-rated-by-esrb/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/slew-of-snk-titles-along-with-dig-dug-get-rated-by-esrb/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/slew-of-snk-titles-along-with-dig-dug-get-rated-by-esrb/#commentsFiled under: ,


Fans of SNK and the Virtual Console, you'll be happy you're reading this post today. A couple of titles, Fatal Fury 2 and Art of Fighting 2 both popped up on the ESRB website with Wii listings, as well as Samurai Shodown and Samurai Shodown 2. Not only that, but classic title Dig Dug also popped up.

Now that's what we need! Some new, non-shooter titles on the Virtual Console are a welcome addition to the Wii's catalog.

[Via Codename Revolution]

JoystiqSlew of SNK titles, along with Dig Dug, get rated by ESRB originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Jun 2008 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>art-of-fightingart-of-fighting-2bandaidig-dugesrbfatal-furyfatal-fury-2namconamco-bandaisamurai-shodownsamurai-shodown-2snksnk-playmoreWed, 04 Jun 2008 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Buy an actual stadium instead]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/30/buy-an-actual-stadium-instead/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/30/buy-an-actual-stadium-instead/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/30/buy-an-actual-stadium-instead/#commentsFiled under:


We're no strangers to collectable NES junk and completely bonkers auctions, but learning about this piece of Nintendo history makes us glance, ever-so-slightly, to our own boxes of dusty cartridges in the hopes that we might one day become millionaires after a forgotten NES relic turns out to be a gold mine.

Stadium Events is apparently the single rarest "officially released" NES cartridge in history. Why? Well, it was first introduced to the USA by Bandai, and the game made use of the Power Pad (formerly known as Family Fun Fitness). Nintendo subsequently purchased the rights to the Power Pad, wanting a piece of the hot sporting action. After the purchase, Nintendo renamed the actual game itself to World Class Track Meet, and copies of Stadium Events were pulled from the shelves. Hence, they are now rarer than a lion's steak dinner.

While the history of such a probably awful game is mind-numbingly complex, Stadium Events goes on existing as a rare collectible. And guess what? You can bid on it here, costing you only a couple ... thousand dollars. Not to worry, the seller is offering a discount on the $7.95 shipping cost if you buy multiple rare games from his collection. Thrifty buyers take note of this saving.

For reference, a sealed copy of the game sold in 2006 for this much.

JoystiqBuy an actual stadium instead originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 May 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandaicollectableebayfamily-fun-fitnessnespower-padrarestadium-eventsworld-class-track-meetFri, 30 May 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Collection of strange and obscure Famicom peripherals, controllers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/21/collection-of-strange-and-obscure-famicom-peripherals-controlle/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/21/collection-of-strange-and-obscure-famicom-peripherals-controlle/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/21/collection-of-strange-and-obscure-famicom-peripherals-controlle/#commentsFiled under: ,



It's astounding that, despite all the eBay auctions we've followed and Nintendo oddities we've researched, there are still so many Famicom accessories out there that we've never seen, much less heard of. Thankfully, an obsessive Japanese collector has put up a page documenting these rare controllers and peripherals, like Hori RF adapters and Disk System cleaning sprays. Check out the Hyper Shot Zapper-clone pictured above -- can you believe that Bandai made a submachine gun for the Famicom? Jump past the post break for more Famicom odds and ends.

Continue reading Collection of strange and obscure Famicom peripherals, controllers

JoystiqCollection of strange and obscure Famicom peripherals, controllers originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 May 2008 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d-systemarcadebandaiblackexciting-boxingfamicomhyper-shotkonamimr-joysanwasharpsticktop-ridervarieWed, 21 May 2008 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[DragonBall Z: Burst Limit video pummels your eyes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/11/dragonball-z-burst-limit-video-pummels-your-eyes/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/11/dragonball-z-burst-limit-video-pummels-your-eyes/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/11/dragonball-z-burst-limit-video-pummels-your-eyes/#commentsFiled under:

The majority of you will enjoy this DragonBall Z: Burst Limit video for what it does have: a heavy helping of awesome. Some of you will continue to be turned off by the graphical style. A few of you will make tired jokes about power levels. One of you will type "first" as your comment. It will be deleted. What are we talking about? We aren't sure because our minds were melted by what will probably be the best-looking and has been the most promising DBZ title to date. Enjoy!

JoystiqDragonBall Z: Burst Limit video pummels your eyes originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 11 May 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandaidragon-ball-zdragon-ball-z-burst-...namconamco-bandaiSun, 11 May 2008 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[What's the deal with Beautiful Katamari?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/25/whats-the-deal-with-beautiful-katamari/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/25/whats-the-deal-with-beautiful-katamari/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/25/whats-the-deal-with-beautiful-katamari/#commentsFiled under:


It's been a very long time since we've heard anything about Beautiful Katamari and the Wii. And, seeing as how the game has been out on Xbox 360 for quite some time now, we were done thinking that it would ever grace Nintendo's console. Thanks to select retailers' online shops, however, hope is slowly being restored.

Major retail chains Target and Wal-Mart are both listing the game on their respective websites, while Buy.com lists the game with the same price ($29.99), but states it's "temporarily sold out." Even rental service Gamefly has a section up for a Wii and PS3 version of the game.

So, what's the deal? Who knows at this point, but the Wal-Mart page points to an August 29th release, so perhaps we'll hear something soon? We're not going to get our hopes up like before, but we'd be lying if we said we didn't want this to happen.

[Thanks, Zack!]

Read - Wal-Mart listing
Read - Target listing
Read - Buy.com listing
Read - Gamefly listing

JoystiqWhat's the deal with Beautiful Katamari? originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 Apr 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandaibeautiful-katamarikatamarikatamari-damacykatamaridamacynamconamco-bandainamcobandaiFri, 25 Apr 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Namco reveals National Geographic Panda and Digimon World Championship]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/17/namco-reveals-national-geographic-panda-and-digimon-world-champi/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/17/namco-reveals-national-geographic-panda-and-digimon-world-champi/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/17/namco-reveals-national-geographic-panda-and-digimon-world-champi/#commentsFiled under: ,


Today is a very happy day for us here at DS Fanboy. We had no idea that pandas on see-saws would be making their way to our country. Back when we saw the scans showing the Japanese game, we thought it was much too quirky and original to be released over here. Oh how glad we are to be wrong.

So, what is the game, exactly? National Geographic Panda and it will release this fall. The game has you interacting with panda bears at Panda Park. Mistreating the bears will cause them to leave your park, whereas nurturing them and making sure they're having fun means new pandas will come to your park and stay. Sounds great to us!

The other game Namco announced in the press release we received is Digimon World Championship. The new game will feature over 200 kinds of Digimon and will feature Wi-Fi support for battling online. Those of you familiar with the Digimon series of games should know what to expect here. No word on a release window for the game.

Check out our galleries below for screenshots of both these games.




[Via press release]

JoystiqNamco reveals National Geographic Panda and Digimon World Championship originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 Apr 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandaidigimondigimon-world-championshipnamconamco-bandainational-geographicnational-geographic-pandapandaThu, 17 Apr 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Afro Samurai gameplay trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/17/new-afro-samurai-gameplay-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/17/new-afro-samurai-gameplay-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/17/new-afro-samurai-gameplay-trailer/#commentsFiled under:

A new gameplay trailer for Afro Samurai has arrived by way of the Namco Bandai Editor's Day 08. As far as we're concerned, the trailer spends far too much time showing off the game's locales and characters and not nearly enough time showing Afro hacking his enemies to bits. The trailer is rather stark all around actually, thanks to its exclusion of any sound effects or voices. Most notably absent from the video is Samuel L. Jackson's portrayal of Afro. Still, what's there looks pretty enough, and the gameplay looks decent. Keep your eyes peeled and you can see the real time dismemberment engine that was revealed recently. Overall, we're not quite sure what to make of the game yet. Here's hoping future media does a better job of piquing our interest.

JoystiqNew Afro Samurai gameplay trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 Apr 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>afro-samuraibandainamconamco-bandaiThu, 17 Apr 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GameSpot checks out Afro Samurai, digs it]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/16/gamespot-checks-out-afro-samurai-digs-it/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/16/gamespot-checks-out-afro-samurai-digs-it/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/16/gamespot-checks-out-afro-samurai-digs-it/#commentsFiled under:


Afro Samurai (possibly the most descriptive title ever devised) is looking good. GameSpot recently got to take an extended look at the game (based on the anime series of the same name) and came away impressed. The game is complete with all the things that fans of the show have come to expect, namely some of the bloodiest combat you're ever likely to see. The GameSpot preview makes particular note of Afro's ability to cut enemies in two from any point on their bodies. These bisecting maneuvers are dynamic by the way, and not just "canned animations." In other words, every hapless foe you decide to cut in half will will fall apart in a different way. Isn't it great what technology is capable of these days? Hit the "read" link for GameSpot's full preview. Check out the video after the break for an idea of what the TV series is all about (warning: extremely violent).

Continue reading GameSpot checks out Afro Samurai, digs it

JoystiqGameSpot checks out Afro Samurai, digs it originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Apr 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>afro-samuraibandainamconamco-bandaiWed, 16 Apr 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Soul Calibur IV coming July 29 in regular and 'premium' editions]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/16/soul-calibur-iv-coming-july-29-in-regular-and-premium-editions/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/16/soul-calibur-iv-coming-july-29-in-regular-and-premium-editions/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/16/soul-calibur-iv-coming-july-29-in-regular-and-premium-editions/#commentsFiled under: , ,


A tale eternally retold (and resold), the Soul Calibur franchise will be making its Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 debut on July 29th in North America. In case you haven't been staying abreast with the fighting franchise's ample development, Soul Calibur IV sees the character roster expanding in an inverse proportion to the size of Ivy's clothes. At last count, the cast included an undead demon pirate, a Sith lord, an asthmatic S&M fetishist and a little green friend. Oh well, at least Spawn's not in this one.

As excited as we are, purchasing the game won't be as easy as simply walking to the store shelf and stuffing it into our trench coats, like we normally do. It seems Namco Bandai has constructed a chicane of decisions for us all: Want to play as Darth Vader right away? Get the PlayStation 3 version. Perhaps you'd prefer Yoda instead? That's the Xbox 360 version. Would you like a comic book, a "tournament kit" and "extra customization content?" Oh, you want the $79.99 Premium Edition ... don't you?

JoystiqSoul Calibur IV coming July 29 in regular and 'premium' editions originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Apr 2008 07:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BandaiBreakingNewsNamcoNamco-BandaiPS3SC-IVSCIVSoul-Calibur-IVSoulCaliburSoulCaliburIVXbox-360Wed, 16 Apr 2008 07:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Boxart battle: Emblem of Gundam vs Front Mission 2089]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/14/boxart-battle-emblem-of-gundam-vs-front-mission-2089/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/14/boxart-battle-emblem-of-gundam-vs-front-mission-2089/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/14/boxart-battle-emblem-of-gundam-vs-front-mission-2089/#commentsFiled under:



Above, we have the covers for two upcoming strategy titles, Emblem of Gundam and Front Mission 2089. Both series have similar themes -- giant mechas battling it out against an intricate backdrop of political drama -- so it's startling to see the different approaches in their packaging designs.

Front Mission 2089 puts more emphasis on its character lineup, masking a lone Wanzer in the mist, and the result is a lusterless jacket that looks as unexciting as the starring crew's listless expressions. Emblem of Gundam's cover has more action to it, giving its mobile suits and story characters even billing. One guy is flying through space with a rapier! Another has a gun! And a massive Gundam oversees the entire scene, jets blasting and fingers positioned like a master pianist preparing his next attack. This is how you design a box!

Today's lesson: If you have huge robots, use them. Pilot your mecha past the post break for a better look at the two covers.

Continue reading Boxart battle: Emblem of Gundam vs Front Mission 2089

JoystiqBoxart battle: Emblem of Gundam vs Front Mission 2089 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Apr 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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