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[Harley Quinn is still really upset in the latest Arkham City DLC trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/harley-quinn-is-still-really-upset-in-the-latest-arkham-city-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/harley-quinn-is-still-really-upset-in-the-latest-arkham-city-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/harley-quinn-is-still-really-upset-in-the-latest-arkham-city-dlc/#comments Image
Poor Harley Quinn. First the Joker breaks her mind, and then The Batman breaks her heart. It's nice to see that she's not wallowing in self-pity, though, and that she's got the initiative to get back out in the world and make a name for herself. Granted, she's using homicide to do so, but still, good for her.

This latest trailer for Ms. Quinzel's starring role as an Arkham City DLC antagonist gives us a look at the various brow beatings Batman and Robin will dispense to the citizenry of Gotham's beating lunatic heart, as well as somewhat unsettling introduction from the man in white himself.

JoystiqHarley Quinn is still really upset in the latest Arkham City DLC trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 May 2012 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batmanBatman-Arkham-Asylum-2Batman-Arkham-Cityharley-quinnHarley-Quinns-Revengejokermicrosoftpcplaystationps3robinthe-jokerxboxFri, 18 May 2012 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Play as both Robin and Batman in Harley Quinn's Revenge]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/play-as-both-robin-and-batman-in-harley-quinns-revenge/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/play-as-both-robin-and-batman-in-harley-quinns-revenge/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/play-as-both-robin-and-batman-in-harley-quinns-revenge/#comments Image
The Harley Quinn's Revenge DLC coming to Batman: Arkham City has been detailed, and it sounds like a departure from the game. Instead of an open-world affair, the DLC is story driven, initially placing you in Robin's boots and tasking you with finding Batman, who's been lost chasing Harley Quinn after the final events of the main game. The story time-shifts, explaining where Batman is and what he's been up to by switching viewpoints a few times.

Robin still doesn't have the chance to wander Arkham in full - he'll only be able to explore this content and any previously released challenge maps. Harley Quinn is scheduled to get her revenge on May 29, for $9.99 on PSN, or 800 Microsoft Points on Xbox Live.

Gallery: Batman: Arkham City (Harley Quinn's Revenge Pack)

JoystiqPlay as both Robin and Batman in Harley Quinn's Revenge originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 May 2012 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batmanBatman-Arkham-Asylum-2Batman-Arkham-Citycontentdlcharley-quinnmicrosoftplaystationps3robinstoryxboxFri, 11 May 2012 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Big Batman deals on Steam this weekend, small Batman not on sale]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/big-batman-deals-on-steam-this-weekend-small-batman-not-on-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/big-batman-deals-on-steam-this-weekend-small-batman-not-on-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/big-batman-deals-on-steam-this-weekend-small-batman-not-on-sale/#comments Image
The Steam signal burns in the night sky and Batman answers the call, probably because he isn't wearing his glasses and the clouds make the Steam logo look like a diagonal bat if he squints. Batman: Arkham City is half off ($15) and Batman: Arkham Asylum GOTY Edition is 66 percent off ($7) this weekend on Steam, sale ending Monday, May 7.

You'd think Bruce would have the money to get Lasik, wouldn't you?

JoystiqBig Batman deals on Steam this weekend, small Batman not on sale originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 May 2012 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BatmanBatman-Arkham-AsylumBatman-Arkham-Asylum-2batman-arkham-asylum-game-of-the-year-editionBatman-Arkham-CitylasikpcsaleSTEAMsteam-saleThu, 03 May 2012 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Arkham City News teases Harley Quinn DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/arkham-city-news-teases-harley-quinn-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/arkham-city-news-teases-harley-quinn-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/arkham-city-news-teases-harley-quinn-dlc/#comments ImageIt looks like that unannounced, Harley Quinn-oriented DLC pack for Batman: Arkham City we caught wind of earlier this month has moved one step closer to becoming official. The Arkham City twitter account tweeted the above teaser image of feet and hammer earlier this morning, immediately proceeded by an unattributed quote: "Don't worry. This is all part of of my plan."

Very mysterious, but given Harley Quinn's historical propensity for comically large mallets, we think inferring her involvement is justified. Personally, we're keeping our fingers crossed for a collection of Whack-A-Mole minigames staring Ms. Quinzel.

JoystiqArkham City News teases Harley Quinn DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Apr 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkham-citybatmanBatman-Arkham-Asylum-2Batman-Arkham-CityDLCharley-quinnmicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxFri, 20 Apr 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Arkham City PC patched to fix save file problems]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/arkham-city-pc-patched-to-fix-save-file-problems/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/arkham-city-pc-patched-to-fix-save-file-problems/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/arkham-city-pc-patched-to-fix-save-file-problems/#comments "I just don't get it, Alfred. These test results show significant signs of save file corruption, Achievement problems, and all sorts of issues with Crossfire/SLI configuration and 32-bit memory in the PC version of the game. I've never seen anything like this before!"

"Surely it can wait until you take a break, sir? I've just made some tea, and I've noticed a hole in your cape that needs patching as well."

"Alfred, there's just no time! Wait? Did you say 'patch'? That's it! We'll send out a patch on Steam, available right now. That will fix all of these issues and more!"

"Very well, sir. The tea will go cold, I gather."

JoystiqArkham City PC patched to fix save file problems originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Mar 2012 02:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batmanbatman-adventuresBatman-Arkham-Asylum-2Batman-Arkham-CitypatchpcsteamWed, 21 Mar 2012 02:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gotham by Gaslight featured beefy London Batman, gameplay vid reveals]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/gotham-by-gaslight-featured-beefy-london-batman-gameplay-vid-re/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/gotham-by-gaslight-featured-beefy-london-batman-gameplay-vid-re/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/gotham-by-gaslight-featured-beefy-london-batman-gameplay-vid-re/#comments It must be terrifying to be a developer on a game that's just barely greenlit, facing down publisher meetings that could make or break all the hard work you've put into a particular project. Come to think of it, the stress and constant panicked feeling would probably be similar to how the prostitutes in London felt every nightfall during Jack the Ripper's heyday. Maybe.

F.3.A.R. developer Day 1 Studios knows how both of those things feel, to some extent, having begun work on Gotham by Gaslight, a steampunk-inspired adaptation of a one-shot Batman graphic novel, only to have it canceled shortly after. We previously got a peek at some concept art for the title, and now Siliconera has uncovered an animation test that it says comes from someone at Day 1.

Check out the burly Batman's flowing cloak as he strides around a dark London setting right here.

JoystiqGotham by Gaslight featured beefy London Batman, gameplay vid reveals originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 27 Feb 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animationBatmancanceledDay-1-Studiosgotham-by-gaslightmicrosofttestWarner-BrosxboxMon, 27 Feb 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Users report reset glitch in Gotham City Impostors]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/users-report-reset-glitch-in-gotham-city-impostors/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/users-report-reset-glitch-in-gotham-city-impostors/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/users-report-reset-glitch-in-gotham-city-impostors/#comments It seems Gotham City Impostors might not have gone through quite the same ruthless training and disciplined regimen that Bruce Wayne did before he became Batman. An admin on the game's official forums recently posted about a potential glitch in the game that resets earned stats and unlocked content, and that thread has earned itself a whopping 63 pages of irate customers on both Xbox 360 and the PlayStation 3. Just losing your stats in the game is a waste of time, but some of those customers bought and paid money for XP boosts and other items to help them level up, which means they're losing that money as well.

Another official forum post suggests that the problem arises when the trial version of the game is converted into the full version. We've contacted WBIE for more information on the glitch. If you're thinking about unlocking the full game or have a lot of stats saved up already, you might want to step gingerly until a fix is out.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in!]

JoystiqUsers report reset glitch in Gotham City Impostors originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 02:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batmanbugglitchgotham-city-impostorsmicrosoftmonolith-productionsplaystationps3wbiexboxThu, 16 Feb 2012 02:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Arkham Asylum action figures coming to Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/04/arkham-asylum-action-figures-coming-to-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/04/arkham-asylum-action-figures-coming-to-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/04/arkham-asylum-action-figures-coming-to-japan/#comments Not to be confused with the upcoming line of DC figures based on the Caped Crusader's escapades through Gotham and its related institutions, these new figures from Square Enix recreate Batman: Arkham Asylum's Harley Quinn, who happens to come with her own little Scarface, as well as a new armored Batman variant.

Each toy comes with interchangeable hands and accessories and will be available in Japan this May for ¥5,800, or about $76.

Gallery: Batman: Arkham Aslyum (Square Enix Figures 2)

JoystiqArkham Asylum action figures coming to Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 04 Feb 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-figuresBatmanBatman-Arkham-Asylumdollsharley-quinnjapanRocksteady-Studiosscarfacesquare-enixtoysSat, 04 Feb 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Arkham action figure line includes Titan Joker, Killer Croc and the Bats]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/arkham-action-figure-line-includes-titan-joker-killer-croc-and/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/arkham-action-figure-line-includes-titan-joker-killer-croc-and/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/arkham-action-figure-line-includes-titan-joker-killer-croc-and/#comments DC Comics is releasing a new line of action figures based on the lead and supporting casts of Batman: Arkham Asylum and Batman: Arkham City, though you'll have to wait a while to get your hands on them. The line is segregated into regular and "deluxe" figures; the five regular figures (Batman, Ra's Al Ghul, Azrael, a Clown Thug and The Penguin) will find their way to comic shops and toy stores this September.

Two of the deluxe figures, Mr. Freeze and Killer Croc, will launch this June, while Titan Joker -- everyone's least favorite part of Arkham Asylum -- won't be available until November.

Gallery: DC Comics Arkham Asylum/City action figures

JoystiqArkham action figure line includes Titan Joker, Killer Croc and the Bats originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Jan 2012 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-figureaction-figuresazraelbatmanBatman-Arkham-Asylum-2Batman-Arkham-Citydc-comicsjokekiller-crocras-al-ghulrocksteadyRocksteady-Studiosthe-penguinThu, 26 Jan 2012 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Concept art reveals canned steampunk Batman game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/13/concept-art-reveals-canned-steampunk-batman-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/13/concept-art-reveals-canned-steampunk-batman-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/13/concept-art-reveals-canned-steampunk-batman-game/#comments Artist Julie Farrell has posted concept art from an Xbox game based on the comic book Gotham by Gaslight, a steampunk-ish take on Batman. The art was made for Day 1 Studios as part of a pitch to THQ about two years ago, Farrell told Joystiq.

It helpfully features control diagrams, revealing that the game would have had grenades, a "slowmo" button, and other elements indicative of a shooter -- elements shared by Gotham City Impostors. However, unlike that existing, multiplayer-only "Batman" shooter, it also features a "story" mode.

Because the only evidence of this game comes from the UI artist, all we have to look at are images from menus and control diagrams. They're really, really nice menus.

JoystiqConcept art reveals canned steampunk Batman game originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Jan 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batmanconcept-artgotham-by-gaslightjulie-farrellmicrosoftxboxFri, 13 Jan 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NetherRealm brings Batman Arkham City Lockdown to iOS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/netherream-brings-batman-arkham-city-lockdown-to-ios/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/netherream-brings-batman-arkham-city-lockdown-to-ios/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/netherream-brings-batman-arkham-city-lockdown-to-ios/#comments New Zealand's iOS App Store, which serves the dual functions of selling apps to New Zealanders and giving us advance warning of upcoming releases in the rest of the world, is home to a new Batman: Arkham City spinoff for iPhone and iPad.

Batman Arkham City Lockdown is a one-on-one fighter developed by Mortal Kombat's NetherRealm Studios, in which Batman beats up the Joker, Two-Face, Solomon Grundy, Deathstroke, and other villains who appeared in the main game. You'll be able to upgrade Batman's abilities, and dress him in different skins.

IGN speculates it's an Infinity Blade-style fighter, though a screenshot on the App Store promises "unique gameplay in every boss fight." With the game out now in New Zealand (for NZ $8.29, about US $6.45) we'll likely see it tonight or tomorrow in the rest of the world.

JoystiqNetherRealm brings Batman Arkham City Lockdown to iOS originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Dec 2011 14:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batmanbatman-arkham-city-lockdowniosipadiphonemobileNetherrealm-StudiosWed, 07 Dec 2011 14:33:00 EST<![CDATA[New Arkham City DLC pack lands Dec. 20, takes us to the Batcave]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/27/new-arkham-city-dlc-pack-lands-dec-20-takes-us-to-the-batcave/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/27/new-arkham-city-dlc-pack-lands-dec-20-takes-us-to-the-batcave/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/27/new-arkham-city-dlc-pack-lands-dec-20-takes-us-to-the-batcave/#comments Well, we don't know for sure that the Batcave challenge map included in the next Batman: Arkham City DLC pack isn't the one Adam West and Burt Ward called home, but it seems far more likely that we'll be beating down Gotham's worst in something a little more contemporary.

According to this tweet, the pack arrives December 20 and also includes two previously available maps: Iceberg Lounge and Joker's Carnival. No pricing information has yet been revealed, though we feel safe in assuming that the sum total will cost more than nothing and less than a hundred billion dollars.

JoystiqNew Arkham City DLC pack lands Dec. 20, takes us to the Batcave originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 27 Nov 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkham-citybatcavebatmanBatman-Arkham-Asylum-2Batman-Arkham-CityDLCmicrosoftplaystationps3rocksteadyRocksteady-StudiosxboxSun, 27 Nov 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gotham City Impostors outed on Jan. 10, open beta starts in Dec.]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/gotham-city-impostors-outed-on-jan-10-open-beta-starts-in-dec/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/gotham-city-impostors-outed-on-jan-10-open-beta-starts-in-dec/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/gotham-city-impostors-outed-on-jan-10-open-beta-starts-in-dec/#comments With Batman wholly occupied in dismantling disastrously conceived punitive institutions, it's up to a gang of loyal imitators to clean up Gotham City proper. Starting the week of January 10 on PC, PlayStation Network and Xbox Live Arcade, you'll be able to assist either The Bats or -- if you can tolerate their edgy substitution of "s" -- The Jokerz in 12-player online battles for the unusually coveted, crime-ridden city.

Gotham City Impostors will undergo an open beta in December, so if you're interested in the game's premise, character customization or odd weaponry, visit the official site and sign up for a WB ID. With a bit of luck you'll get an early tour of what Condé Nast calls "a gloomy, demented place that should have been razed by an orphan."

JoystiqGotham City Impostors outed on Jan. 10, open beta starts in Dec. originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Nov 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batmanbetagotham-city-impostorsmicrosoftmonolithpcplaystationps3psnq1-2012release-datewarner-brosWarner-Bros-Interactive-EntertainmentxblaxboxThu, 10 Nov 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Talk to Calendar Man in Batman: Arkham City today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/psa-talk-to-calendar-man-in-batman-arkham-city-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/psa-talk-to-calendar-man-in-batman-arkham-city-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/psa-talk-to-calendar-man-in-batman-arkham-city-today/#comments Eager Trophy and Achievement hunters likely already know the deal: today is Halloween and Calendar Man, a Batman villain obsessed with holidays and dates, is looking for a little company. If you talk to him in Batman: Arkham City on twelve different specific holidays (you can see the exact dates on a calendar next to his cell in the basement of the courthouse), you can earn the Story Teller Achievement/Trophy.

Of course, you could cheat your way through this by changing the date on your console, though we'd hardly condone that. The Batman is not known for taking shortcuts.

JoystiqPSA: Talk to Calendar Man in Batman: Arkham City today originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 31 Oct 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batmanBatman-Arkham-Asylum-2Batman-Arkham-Citycalendar-manmicrosoftplaystationps3rocksteadywarner-brosxboxMon, 31 Oct 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Batman: Arkham City PC system requirements detected]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/22/batman-arkham-city-pc-system-requirements-detected/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/22/batman-arkham-city-pc-system-requirements-detected/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/22/batman-arkham-city-pc-system-requirements-detected/#comments We may have to wait until the eighteenth of November to get our WASD-lovin' keyboard claws on the PC version of Batman: Arkham City, but the extra weeks have given us ample time to make sure our beefy rigs are up to snuff.

Not that we're that worried, mind you: Nvidia has released the minimum and recommended system requirements for the caped crusader's latest romp (after the break), and all told the spec aren't totally outrageous. Maybe we didn't need to spend forty thousand dollars on a replica of Batman: The Animated Series' Batcave supercomputer after all.

Continue reading Batman: Arkham City PC system requirements detected

JoystiqBatman: Arkham City PC system requirements detected originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 22 Oct 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkhambatmanBatman-Arkham-Asylum-2Batman-Arkham-CitycatwomannvidiapcRocksteady-Studiossystem-requirementsSat, 22 Oct 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Batman: Arkham City's Nightwing could use a haircut]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/15/batman-arkham-citys-nightwing-could-use-a-haircut/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/15/batman-arkham-citys-nightwing-could-use-a-haircut/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/15/batman-arkham-citys-nightwing-could-use-a-haircut/#comments
Former Robin, Dick Grayson, has moved out from under Batman's cape to go on his own as Nightwing, but we have a feeling that Bruce would just shake his head if he saw these bangs. How are you supposed to fight crime if you can't keep that hair out of your eyes, Dick?

At any rate, that's what Nightwing looks like in Batman: Arkham City, as Rocksteady has confirmed his rumored appearance in the title. He and Robin will be available both in preorders and in their own downloadable content packs. November 1 will find Nightwing available for $6.99 or 560 Microsoft points on either Xbox 360 or PS3, along with the "Wayne Manor" and "Main Hall" challenge maps and a Nightwing Animated Series skin. Robin's pack will be available on November 22 for the same price, including "Black Mask Hideout" and "Freight Train Escape" maps -- and presumably an extra skin as well.

Both playable characters will have their own tools and moves for knocking out the bad guys. Batman: Arkham City launches on Xbox 360 and PS3 on Tuesday, October 18.

JoystiqBatman: Arkham City's Nightwing could use a haircut originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 15 Oct 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkham-citybatmanBatman-Arkham-Asylum-2Batman-Arkham-Citydick-graysondlcmicrosoftnightwingpcplaystationpreorderps3releaserobinxboxSat, 15 Oct 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Catwoman unlocked in Batman: Arkham City through online pass]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/catwoman-unlocked-in-batman-arkham-city-through-online-pass/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/catwoman-unlocked-in-batman-arkham-city-through-online-pass/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/catwoman-unlocked-in-batman-arkham-city-through-online-pass/#comments Within every new copy of Batman: Arkham City resides a code for an online VIP pass, which grants access to Catwoman content. If you pick up the game used, there's an option to purchase the VIP pass for 800 MS Points ($10) on Xbox Live and $9.99 on PSN. But have no fear if you're trying to save a few bucks and want to pick it up used: "Playing as Catwoman is not required to complete the game," a Warner Bros. rep told Eurogamer.

Catwoman is just one of the playable characters on offer in Arkham City. Two different DLC packs will also unlock Robin and Nightwing (who is also Robin) for play in the game. Then, of course, there's the fifty different skins for Batman that can be purchased. So rest assured: if you're really against the vanilla Batman, you can purchase the right outfit that fits your needs.

JoystiqCatwoman unlocked in Batman: Arkham City through online pass originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 Oct 2011 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batmanBatman-Arkham-Asylum-2Batman-Arkham-Citycatwomanmicrosoftonline-passplaystationps3rocksteadywarner-brosxboxThu, 13 Oct 2011 18:15:00 EST<![CDATA[DC Universe Online Facebook page teases fifth update 'soon' [update: how about now?]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/04/dc-universe-online-facebook-page-teases-fifth-update-soon/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/04/dc-universe-online-facebook-page-teases-fifth-update-soon/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/04/dc-universe-online-facebook-page-teases-fifth-update-soon/#comments The Fortress of Solitude update for DCUO is due out soon. DC Universe Online's official Facebook account has teased the fifth update for the popular console and PC MMO, hinting at new features and new characters to play with. The "Fate of the Fortress" update will include a new difficulty mode for the Hive Alert zone (with new loot to match), a duel feature for fighting friends, the ability to fight in the Batcave as yourself (rather than as the premade Iconic characters), and appearances from both Jor-El, Superman's dad, and the evil General Zod. We're not sure how that last one will be used, but best guess is that you'll have to /kneel before him.

That's just a little MMO humor for you there (very little). DCUO is scheduled to go free-to-play by the end of this month, and so presumably the update will drop sometime right around then. In fact, the official account comments on the Facebook page that "Update 5 is soon, F2P is Late October," so we may even see this new content out sooner than the changeover.

[Update: The DCUO Update 5 is now live.]

JoystiqDC Universe Online Facebook page teases fifth update 'soon' [update: how about now?] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 Oct 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batcavebatmandcDC-Universe-Onlinedcuofate-of-the-fortressjor-elpcplaystationps3supermanzodTue, 04 Oct 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gotham City Impostors beta invites are the real deal]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/24/gotham-city-impostors-beta-invites-are-the-real-deal/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/24/gotham-city-impostors-beta-invites-are-the-real-deal/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/24/gotham-city-impostors-beta-invites-are-the-real-deal/#comments If you were a keen enough detective and/or a nefarious enough villain to opt in to the Gotham City Impostors closed beta early last month, go check your email and prepare to don your choice of cowl or clown wig: Beta invites are on the move! Now, the beta hasn't actually started yet, but the invitation indicates another announcement "in the coming weeks," which could be any time from now until the heat death of the universe.

Those lucky enough to receive an invitation to Monolith's 6-on-6 vigilante shooter are urged to register at the game's official forums. You can still dress up like Batman and fight crime even if you didn't get an invitation, we suppose, but real-world vigilantism never works out the way you think it will.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in!]

Continue reading Gotham City Impostors beta invites are the real deal

JoystiqGotham City Impostors beta invites are the real deal originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 24 Sep 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batmanbetabeta-invitesclosed-betagotham-city-impostorsmicrosoftMonolithMonolith-Productionspcplaystationps3warner+brothersWarner-Bros-InteractivexboxSat, 24 Sep 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Arkham City's Animated Series Batman skin is exclusive for GameStop PowerUp Rewards members]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/arkham-citys-animated-series-batman-skin-is-exclusive-for-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/arkham-citys-animated-series-batman-skin-is-exclusive-for-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/arkham-citys-animated-series-batman-skin-is-exclusive-for-games/#comments That stylish Animated Series Batman skin (complete with the white triangles for eyes) is now officially, and apparently only available as an exclusive from GameStop, according to information on the company's store. Players who have a PowerUp Rewards membership (that card and Game Informer subscription GameStop's employees are always trying to sell you) will get access to the skin, a replica from the classic 1990s Batman: The Animated Series.

Of course, Kevin Conroy, who voices the Bat in the games, started his tenure as the World's Greatest Detective in the series, so putting his voice and this costume together again will be a nice homecoming for fans. There was also a rumor going around that the same skin would be a GAME exclusive overseas, but that company is apparently offering Robin as a playable character, a bonus already revealed for Best Buy in the US. In other words, pick your pre-orders carefully out there, people.

[Thanks, Alan!]

JoystiqArkham City's Animated Series Batman skin is exclusive for GameStop PowerUp Rewards members originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Sep 2011 20:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batmanBatman-Arkham-Asylum-2Batman-Arkham-Citybatman-tasbatman-the-animated-seriesgame-informergamestopkevin-conroymicrosoftpcplaystationpowerup-rewardsps3xboxMon, 19 Sep 2011 20:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Batman: Arkham City aims to add replay value with 'New Game Plus' mode]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/07/batman-arkham-city-aims-to-add-replay-value-with-new-game-plus/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/07/batman-arkham-city-aims-to-add-replay-value-with-new-game-plus/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/07/batman-arkham-city-aims-to-add-replay-value-with-new-game-plus/#comments It's a story we've all heard a million times: you play Game X; you love Game X; you find every single item and do everything you possibly can, yet still you crave more. Tough, there isn't anything left in Game X. You guzzled Game X when you should've sipped Game X, long and slow, savoring every second.

It was our problem with Batman: Arkham Asylum, much as we imagine it was a problem for a lot of you. Rocksteady is looking to fix that in Batman: Arkham City with a "New Game Plus" mode, which ramps up the difficulty and modifies a few things for your second go around Crimeburg. Thugs are meaner, boss fights are tougher and Bats will retain all of his XP and gadgets from the first playthrough.

The difficulty setting for "New Game Plus" isn't customizable -- whether you make it through on normal or hard, the difficulty of "New Game Plus" will be the same. Also, there won't be any counter icons on thugs, but we imagine that won't be a huge deal after you've spent a whole game punching them in the face.

JoystiqBatman: Arkham City aims to add replay value with 'New Game Plus' mode originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batmanBatman-Arkham-Asylum-2Batman-Arkham-Citymicrosoftnew-game-pluspcplaystationps3rocksteadywarner-brosxboxWed, 07 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[OnLive Labor Day sale includes $0.99 Batman: Arkham Asylum]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/05/onlive-labor-day-sale-includes-0-99-batman-arkham-asylum/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/05/onlive-labor-day-sale-includes-0-99-batman-arkham-asylum/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/05/onlive-labor-day-sale-includes-0-99-batman-arkham-asylum/#comments Harvey Batman, Salesman of the Month If you've yet to play Batman: Arkham Asylum, or if you've wanted to try OnLive, today might be the day to pull the trigger. Having reached 45,000 "Likes" on Facebook, the service is now offering the game at the criminally insane price of $0.99 as part of its Labor Day Sale. Simply enter the code "99cents" at checkout and Arkham Asylum is yours. Act fast though, the batty offer is only available today.

Additionally, having reached its goal, OnLive will now donate $1 to Child's Play for any more "Likes" received for the rest of the day.

Now, if you haven't played Arkham Asylum and you've been itching to try out OnLive, try to remember this day, because it's all down hill from here.

JoystiqOnLive Labor Day sale includes $0.99 Batman: Arkham Asylum originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Sep 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BatmanBatman-Arkham-AsylummacpcRocksteady-StudiosWarner-BrosMon, 05 Sep 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gotham City Impostors gameplay video gives a real look at the fake Batmen]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/gotham-city-impostors-gameplay-video-gives-a-real-look-at-the-fa/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/gotham-city-impostors-gameplay-video-gives-a-real-look-at-the-fa/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/gotham-city-impostors-gameplay-video-gives-a-real-look-at-the-fa/#comments
Take a look right hereat the real fake Batmen and Jokers from Monolith's Gotham City Impostors in this in-game trailer, showing off close-quarters combat and innovative jack-in-the-box weaponry a la TF2 meets DCUO. We think Impostors looks like a heap of fun, but even if you don't, at least the characters themselves are having a good time -- half of the players can't seem to wipe those cheek-to-cheek grins off their faces.

JoystiqGotham City Impostors gameplay video gives a real look at the fake Batmen originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Aug 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Batmanbatmengotham-city-impostorsJokerjokersmicrosoftMonolithpcplaystationps3Warner-BrosxboxFri, 12 Aug 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Arkham City's Batman is a fashionista, rocking six suits in his wardrobe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/02/arkham-citys-batman-is-a-fashionista-rocking-six-suits-in-his/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/02/arkham-citys-batman-is-a-fashionista-rocking-six-suits-in-his/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/02/arkham-citys-batman-is-a-fashionista-rocking-six-suits-in-his/#comments Batman's a busy guy, sure, but when he's out prowling the streets of Arkham City looking for thugs, he wants to feel pretty just like anyone else. Developer Rocksteady Studios has clearly taken that into consideration, as the caped crusader has a sextet of costumes to don in his upcoming game, Batman: Arkham City -- should you procure all available pre-order and exclusivity offers surrounding the game, that is. As seen above, everything from classic 1970s Batman to Batman Beyond's version of the Bats' suit has made the cut thus far.

Fan site ArkhamCity.co.uk rounded up the various bat suits offered in a variety of different means and provided details on how to grab each for yourself. Unfortunately, it's possible you'll have to spend many hundreds of dollars and possibly import versions from other countries. But hey, that's fashion!

Update: To be extra clear, the image above is a fan-made amalgam of existing pre-order images and (possibly) non-official game art. We anxiously await an official image from Rocksteady/Warner Bros.

[Image credit: Fan-made; Thanks, Regis.]

JoystiqArkham City's Batman is a fashionista, rocking six suits in his wardrobe originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Aug 2011 13:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batmanBatman-Arkham-Asylum-2Batman-Arkham-Citypre-orderrocksteadyrocksteady-studiosskinswarner-broswarner-bros-interactivewarner-bros-interactive-entertainmentwbwbieTue, 02 Aug 2011 13:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Rocksteady and Paul Dini on the storytelling in Batman: Arkham City]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/26/rocksteady-and-paul-dini-on-the-storytelling-in-batman-arkham-c/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/26/rocksteady-and-paul-dini-on-the-storytelling-in-batman-arkham-c/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/26/rocksteady-and-paul-dini-on-the-storytelling-in-batman-arkham-c/#comments Batman: Arkham City's creators and voice actors steadfastly refused to give out any new information about the game at last weekend's Comic-Con panel, instead just showing a new Penguin trailer. But both Paul Crocker, the lead narrative designer at Rocksteady Studios, and the legendary Paul Dini, Batman writer extraordinaire, kindly sat down to speak with Joystiq beforehand about the story of both Batman: Arkham Asylum and the upcoming sequel.

Arkham Asylum's story was mainly about the Joker's takeover of Arkham and how Batman dealt with it, but those who explored the sidequests and secrets of the game got a look at the overarching plot of the series, that of Warden Quincy Sharp and his mysterious ties to Arkham itself.

That story is what drives the sequel forward, and Crocker says that it actually appeared right in the middle of the two games' development: The secrets in the first game were "a late addition," put in while development on the sequel was alrady underway. "The biggest challenge for us was taking the game out of Arkham Island and into Arkham City," he says. "As people have seen in the secret room in the last game, we had it planned. I guess it was a rough road back, to a degree, because that meant we had to do it. But the idea of the city has grown into bigger and bigger detail, and really that was the biggest challenge."

Gallery: Batman: Arkham City (2/16/11)

Continue reading Rocksteady and Paul Dini on the storytelling in Batman: Arkham City

JoystiqRocksteady and Paul Dini on the storytelling in Batman: Arkham City originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Jul 2011 09:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkham-citybatmanBatman-Arkham-Asylum-2Batman-Arkham-Citycomic-con-2011microsoftpaul-crockerpaul-dinipcplaystationps3warden-quincy-sharpxboxTue, 26 Jul 2011 09:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Rocksteady: You can't make your villains super-powered all of a sudden]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/05/rocksteady-you-cant-make-your-villains-super-powered-all-of-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/05/rocksteady-you-cant-make-your-villains-super-powered-all-of-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/05/rocksteady-you-cant-make-your-villains-super-powered-all-of-a/#comments Batman: Arkham Asylum didn't get much wrong, but its boss fights were a notable exception. In short: They pitted you against monstrous super-thug versions of the Batman villains you know and hate (but also kind of love) rather than more ... relatable incarnations. In a new interview with Gamasutra, Rocksteady marketing manager Dax Ginns circuitously apologizes, but says it'll be better when the asylum expands to Arkham City.

"They're humans," Ginns said. "They're mortal. Batman's a mortal guy, but he's a total badass, so we've got to make sure that all of a sudden someone like Riddler doesn't just develop superhuman strength because it makes gameplay sense. No. Riddler is a smart guy but he's not a powerhouse, and so the combat between Batman and Riddler exists on the intellectual level."

God, the Crazy Quilt level is going to be messed up.

JoystiqRocksteady: You can't make your villains super-powered all of a sudden originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Jul 2011 13:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batmanBatman-Arkham-Asylum-2Batman-Arkham-Citymicrosoftpcplaystationps3Rocksteady-StudiosxboxTue, 05 Jul 2011 13:50:00 EST<![CDATA[OnLive celebrates Indie-pendence Day with an explosive sale]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/03/onlive-celebrates-indie-pendence-day-with-an-explosive-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/03/onlive-celebrates-indie-pendence-day-with-an-explosive-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/03/onlive-celebrates-indie-pendence-day-with-an-explosive-sale/#comments OnLive is celebrating "Indie-pendence" Day with a massive sale on -- you guessed it -- a random selection of mainstream blockbusters and popular underground games.

The sale includes Batman: Arkham Asylum, Darksiders, Just Cause 2, a pre-order deal on Deus Ex: Human Revolution, and of course an inundation of hit indie titles such as Braid, The Maw, Osmos and Amnesia: The Dark Descent. OnLive's "Indie-pendence" Day Sale runs through the completely unrelated day of July 4, so hurry and check out your options after the jump before this thing vanishes like smoke after a firework.

Update: OnLive is sending all PlayPack subscribers a free game of their choice this Tuesday, and as long as you sign up for the monthly unlimited-gaming service before midnight Pacific on July 4, you can snag a free game too. Thanks, Silent Killer01!

Continue reading OnLive celebrates Indie-pendence Day with an explosive sale

JoystiqOnLive celebrates Indie-pendence Day with an explosive sale originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 03 Jul 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amnesia-the-dark-descentBatmanBatman-Arkham-AsylumBraidDarksidersDarksiders-Wrath-of-Wardeus-ex-human-revolutionfireworksIndiependence-Day-SaleJust-Cause-2OnLivepcThe-MawSun, 03 Jul 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Batarang controllers you deserve, but not the ones you need]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/03/the-batarang-controllers-you-deserve-but-not-the-ones-you-need/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/03/the-batarang-controllers-you-deserve-but-not-the-ones-you-need/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/03/the-batarang-controllers-you-deserve-but-not-the-ones-you-need/#comments Where does he get those wonderful toys? From any retailer that carries Power A controllers, this fall. The peripheral manufacturer has announced a Batman: Arkham City-themed "Batarang" controller for both Xbox 360 and PS3, which allows you to pretend you're playing games on the specialized Bat-style game console you know Batman keeps in the cave.

Both versions feature LED accents, that can light up in seven different colors. The PS3 version is wireless (with a receiver), with an internal rechargeable battery and motion sensors, and reversed analog stick placement. The Xbox version is wired, but comes with a 10-foot-long cable that may or may not allow the device to be used as a grappling hook.

Gallery: Power A Batarang Controllers

JoystiqThe Batarang controllers you deserve, but not the ones you need originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Jun 2011 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batarangbatmanBatman-Arkham-Asylum-2Batman-Arkham-Citycontrollermicrosoftperipheralsplaystationps3xboxFri, 03 Jun 2011 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Gotham City Impostors shooting up XBLA, PSN, PC courtesy of Monolith Productions]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/16/gotham-city-imposters/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/16/gotham-city-imposters/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/16/gotham-city-imposters/#comments Just announced at this morning's Warner Bros. Interactive pre-E3 event, the long-rumored Gotham City Impostors is a new shooter from F.E.A.R. dev Monolith Productions. It's a multiplayer shooter set in the Batman universe. If that sounds weird ("But Batman doesn't use guns!"), then you're a step ahead of the curve.

The crux of Impostors is simple: You don't play as Batman or Joker. Instead you play as a highly customizable "imposter" on Team Bats or Team Jokers. "Posing as amateur vigilantes or villains," explains the press release, "gamers will create their very own Bats and Jokerz characters using unprecedented customization options including insane costumes, homebrewed gadgets and a wide range of traditional and imagined weapons." From there, you'll take your character into a series of gametypes and maps, which are "inspired by DC Comics' Batman license."

Impostors is being shown running 4v4 multiplayer at today's preview event, but WBIE tells us that the maximum number of players isn't yet set in stone.

Update: Clarified details based on press release. Additionally, GothamCityImpostors.com is now live.

JoystiqGotham City Impostors shooting up XBLA, PSN, PC courtesy of Monolith Productions originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 16 May 2011 13:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batmangotham-city-impostorsmicrosoftMonolith-Productionspcplaystationps3PSNWBIEXBLAxboxMon, 16 May 2011 13:25:00 EST<![CDATA[WB registers 'Batman: Impostors' domains, XBLA game rumored]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/16/wb-registers-batman-impostors-domains-xbla-game-rumored/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/16/wb-registers-batman-impostors-domains-xbla-game-rumored/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/16/wb-registers-batman-impostors-domains-xbla-game-rumored/#comments Back in February, there was a rumor going around, based on a few listings at UK retailers, that Warner Brothers was working on a Batman game specifically made for Xbox Live Arcade. At the time, the rumored title was "Gotham City Impostors," but with little more than that the story sounded as believable as Jason Todd coming back to life.

But now, Superannuation has unearthed registrations by Warner Brothers for the BatmanImpostors.com web domain, as well as BatmanRedHoods.com and BatmanHushGame.com. Now, the story seems about as likely as ... Jason Todd coming back to life.

Of course, this doesn't confirm an XBLA game -- Warner Brothers could just be registering these in advance of the Batman: Arkham City release, or picking them up for some unrelated reason. Impostors, as it is spelled, is a storyline from Detective Comics last year, while Hush is a well-known Batman villian. Keep your Detective Vision turned on, folks.

JoystiqWB registers 'Batman: Impostors' domains, XBLA game rumored originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 16 Apr 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batmanBatman-Arkham-Citybatman-hushbatman-impostorsgotham-city-impostorsmicrosoftwarner-brothersweb-domainsxblaxboxxbox-liveSat, 16 Apr 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DC Universe Online beta ends today with a big ol' fight]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/05/dc-universe-online-beta-ends-today-with-a-big-ol-fight/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/05/dc-universe-online-beta-ends-today-with-a-big-ol-fight/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/05/dc-universe-online-beta-ends-today-with-a-big-ol-fight/#comments Saturday night certainly is alright for fighting, but DC Universe Online would rather you engage in battle today, ending the beta for DCUO with an event: "Battle of the Legends." Players can either align with good or evil and battle alongside the likes of Joker, Batman, Superman, and Lex Luthor -- a full list of the battles can be found after the break.

We'd suggest hopping on the PC version around 5PM PST and joining up with Future Batman (as piloted by famed comic artist Jim Lee) to take down evil, or if you're feeling more edgy, the PS3 version around 7PM PST to join Lee as Future Joker in creating chaos. If you miss the whole event, well, the game officially launches next week, so no biggie. That said, if you're really sore about missing it, the full play-by-play will be broadcast via DCUO's Facebook page. "Like" away!

Continue reading DC Universe Online beta ends today with a big ol' fight

JoystiqDC Universe Online beta ends today with a big ol' fight originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Jan 2011 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batmanbattle-of-the-legendsbetaDC-Universe-Onlinefacebookjim-leelex-luthormmopcplaystationps3supermanthe-jokerWed, 05 Jan 2011 11:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Batman: Arkham City lets out unsatisfying teaser]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/08/batman-arkham-city-lets-out-unsatisfying-teaser/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/08/batman-arkham-city-lets-out-unsatisfying-teaser/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/08/batman-arkham-city-lets-out-unsatisfying-teaser/#commentsYou'll learn two facts about Batman in the brief Arkham City teaser video offered exclusively by MSN Games UK:

  1. Batman is sneaky
  2. Batman is good at fighting
These are important character traits to reveal to people who have never heard of Batman before, which is apparently the target audience for this video. Otherwise -- if you know anything about Batman at all, or if you were looking for, say, gameplay footage from Arkham City -- the clip is less thrilling and more workaday.

Continue reading Batman: Arkham City lets out unsatisfying teaser

JoystiqBatman: Arkham City lets out unsatisfying teaser originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Dec 2010 13:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batmanBatman-Arkham-Asylum-2Batman-Arkham-Cityboring-teasersmicrosoftpcplaystationps3Rocksteady-StudiosWarner-Bros-InteractivexboxWed, 08 Dec 2010 13:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Unofficial remake of first Batman game released]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/08/unofficial-remake-of-first-batman-game-released/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/08/unofficial-remake-of-first-batman-game-released/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/08/unofficial-remake-of-first-batman-game-released/#comments For a full-color history lesson, we suggest you check out the recently completed and simply adorable remake of Batman -- the first Batman! The 3D isometric gem was developed by Jon Ritman and Bernie Drummond, and published in 1986 by the once formidable British games giant Ocean Software -- a sort of ancestor of the modern-day Atari Inc. through its Infogrames lineage -- for the ZX Spectrum, MSX and Amstrad CPC (and PCW) "microcomputers" (contemporaries of the dominant Commodore 64).

The game stars an Adam West-looking Batman on a scavenger hunt around the deadly Batcave for seven pieces of the Batcraft (so he can get it hovering again and go rescue Robin, of course). According to the Sinclair User review (issue #50, pg. 51), Batman is notable for being an early, if not the first, game to implement a checkpoint system.

The unofficial remake of Batman was developed by Tomaz Kac (who also faithfully remade Ritman and Drummond's Head Over Heels followup) and is available to download and play for free on PC. An earlier freeware remake, dubbed Watman, was released for DOS and Game Boy Advance about ten years ago. Consider yourself schooled.

[Image sources: Retrospec / RudyKoch]

JoystiqUnofficial remake of first Batman game released originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Dec 2010 00:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batmanbatman-1986bernie-drummondhomebrewjon-ritmanocean-softwarepcremaketomaz-kacunofficialzx-spectrumWed, 08 Dec 2010 00:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Steam deals today include Batman, Audiosurf, Deathspank, Kane & Lynch 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/25/steam-deals-today-include-batman-audiosurf-deathspank-kane-and/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/25/steam-deals-today-include-batman-audiosurf-deathspank-kane-and/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/25/steam-deals-today-include-batman-audiosurf-deathspank-kane-and/#comments Steam has a big "Give and Get" sale going on throughout the weekend, with a couple of daily deals mixed in for good measure (and your post-download pleasure). Musical racer Audiosurf is a steal at $2.50, and we can't imagine hiring better heroes than DeathSpank and Batman for just over $10 each. Have a look at the full list:
  • Audiosurf -- $2.50
  • Batman: Arkham Asylum GOTY Edition -- $10.20
  • DeathSpank -- $10.04
  • Kane & Lynch 2: Dog Days -- $5
  • Indie Story Pack (includes Gish, And Yet It Moves, Jolly Rover, Puzzle Agent and Recettear!) -- $4.99
  • EVE Online: Tyrannis -- $5
  • Defense Grid: The Awakening -- $2.50
  • Cities XL 2011 -- $29.99
As of 10PM EST, you have 15 hours left before the daily deal concludes. This counts for Steam's nifty gift packs too, which offer several copies of a game to be distributed amongst your pals.

JoystiqSteam deals today include Batman, Audiosurf, Deathspank, Kane & Lynch 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Nov 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiosurfBatmanBatman-Arkham-Asylumblack-friday-2010kane-and-lynch-2-dog-dayspcsteamThu, 25 Nov 2010 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Batman brawls with the Joker in latest DC Universe Online screens]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/25/batman-brawls-with-the-joker-in-latest-dc-universe-online-screen/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/25/batman-brawls-with-the-joker-in-latest-dc-universe-online-screen/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/25/batman-brawls-with-the-joker-in-latest-dc-universe-online-screen/#comments Honestly, guys, we're shocked. What kind of message does fighting send to budding caped crusaders and aspiring hoodlums in DC Universe Online's Gotham City locale? There are certain protocols of etiquette one must adhere to when engaging in crime-fighting or heistery and, today, we're sad to say we're disappointed in you both.

As penance, we're going to display your embarrassing encounter for all to see in our gallery below. Let it be a lesson moving forward: from here on out, let's dance out our problems, okay guys?

Gallery: DC Universe Online (Batman)

JoystiqBatman brawls with the Joker in latest DC Universe Online screens originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Nov 2010 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batmanDC-Universe-Onlinepcplaystationps3sonysony-online-entertainmentThu, 25 Nov 2010 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DC Direct's NY Comic Con offerings full of gaming all-stars]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/09/dc-directs-ny-comic-con-offerings-full-of-gaming-all-stars/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/09/dc-directs-ny-comic-con-offerings-full-of-gaming-all-stars/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/09/dc-directs-ny-comic-con-offerings-full-of-gaming-all-stars/#comments Wondering what those announced, but mostly unseen DC Direct gaming figures look like? We spotted them this morning at the NY Comic Con, casually posing in a glass case. Most of the items aren't for sale until later this year -- we might find that more troubling if it weren't bank account depletion season (read: Q4).

Gallery: DC Direct at New York Comic Con 2010

JoystiqDC Direct's NY Comic Con offerings full of gaming all-stars originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 09 Oct 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BatmanBatman-Arkham-Asylumdc-comicsdc-directnew-york-comic-connew-york-comic-con-2010nyccnycc-2010Sat, 09 Oct 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Batman: The Brave and the Bold review: the lighter side of the Dark Knight]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/07/batman-the-brave-and-the-bold-review-the-lighter-side-of-the-dark-knight/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/07/batman-the-brave-and-the-bold-review-the-lighter-side-of-the-dark-knight/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/07/batman-the-brave-and-the-bold-review-the-lighter-side-of-the-dark-knight/#comments From the moment the campaign kicks off, it's patently obvious that Batman: The Brave and the Bold: The Videogame hails from an entirely different lineage than Arkham Asylum. That's not a knock on the game, nor even a reference to the cartoon-stylized visuals; rather, the game's tone is much sillier than the dark and serious approach of last year's smash. By the end of the first chapter, both Batman and Robin have been transformed into housecats, and before the game concludes, Batman's floating in space, blasting a giant starfish with an endless supply of batarangs in a simple shoot-em-up ('rang-em-up?) sequence.

It's weird, no doubt, and though The Brave and the Bold suffers due to kid-friendly gameplay mechanics and a total lack of challenge, it maintains a slight winning edge with its total adherence to this playful demeanor.

Gallery: Batman: The Brave and the Bold (Wii)

Continue reading Batman: The Brave and the Bold review: the lighter side of the Dark Knight

JoystiqBatman: The Brave and the Bold review: the lighter side of the Dark Knight originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 Sep 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batmanBatman-Brave-and-BoldBatman-The-Brave-and-the-BoldBrave-and-BoldnintendoWayForwardwbwbiewiiTue, 07 Sep 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Batman: Arkham City coming to PC, PS3 and 360 in Fall 2011]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/05/batman-arkham-city-coming-to-pc-ps3-and-360-in-fall-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/05/batman-arkham-city-coming-to-pc-ps3-and-360-in-fall-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/05/batman-arkham-city-coming-to-pc-ps3-and-360-in-fall-2011/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The sequel to Batman: Arkham Asylum now has an official title -- Batman: Arkham City -- and will launch on PlayStation 3, PC and Xbox 360 in Fall 2011. There go your fears of deleterious franchise annualization! Of course, we might just go mad waiting so long for the follow-up to one of 2009's best games.

As you may have guessed from a handful of internet domain registrations, the sequel will take place in "Arkham City", a "heavily fortified" mini-city deep inside Gotham City. Warner Bros. Interactive hasn't offered further details on the game's plot or new features, but a pair of gorgeous Game Informer covers (September issue) hint at a more brutal tone and reveal some of the villains Batman may encounter. You'll spot a very patriotic Two-Face, and a possible romantic interest in Catwoman.

The official Batman: Arkham City website is up now, though it only displays the initial teaser trailer from the VGAs at the moment.

Continue reading Batman: Arkham City coming to PC, PS3 and 360 in Fall 2011

JoystiqBatman: Arkham City coming to PC, PS3 and 360 in Fall 2011 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Aug 2010 09:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batmanBatman-Arkham-Asylum-2batman-arkham-citymicrosoftpcplaystationps3rocksteadyRocksteady-StudiosWarner-BrosWarner-Bros-InteractiveWarner-Bros-Interactive-EntertainmentxboxThu, 05 Aug 2010 09:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Batman, Phantasy Star Universe hit XBL Games on Demand]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/04/batman-phantasy-star-universe-hit-xbl-games-on-demand/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/04/batman-phantasy-star-universe-hit-xbl-games-on-demand/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/04/batman-phantasy-star-universe-hit-xbl-games-on-demand/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We're not sure how it happened. We could have sworn that Too Human was the only new release on Xbox Live Games on Demand this week (it was the only one listed by Major Nelson, after all). And yet, somehow, Batman: Arkham Asylum has appropriately emerged from the shadows as well. Joining the Dark Knight is Phantasy Star Universe, which recently received a shot in the arm thanks to a new update and a free expansion. Arkham Asylum can be had for a steep $40 (the GOTY Edition costs $50 in-store), while Phantasy Star Universe is $20. As usual, pricing and availability vary by region.


Xbox.com: Add Batman: Arkham Asylum to your Xbox 360 download queue ($39.99)
Xbox.com: Add Phantasy Star Universe to your Xbox 360 download queue ($19.99)

JoystiqBatman, Phantasy Star Universe hit XBL Games on Demand originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Aug 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BatmanBatman-Arkham-AsylumGames-On-DemandmicrosoftPhantasy-Star-UniverseXBLMxboxWed, 04 Aug 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Preview: DC Universe Online 'Play as Iconic' arena battle mode]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/29/preview-dc-universe-online-play-as-iconic-arena-battle-mode/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/29/preview-dc-universe-online-play-as-iconic-arena-battle-mode/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/29/preview-dc-universe-online-play-as-iconic-arena-battle-mode/#comments We've seen DC Universe Online several times now over the course of its development, and it's failed to much impress us. Still, the game continues to generate interest, if only because Sony Online Entertainment is bringing it to the PS3, and many gamers have been waiting for a new console MMO, polished or otherwise, for a long time.

Last week at Comic-Con, SOE showed off the latest build of DCU and spotlighted a new feature with the awkward name "Play as Iconic." ("Iconic" is what the licensed DC comics characters are referred to as in the game.) In the main game, you will play as your own custom characters, getting guidance and help from established veterans like Batman and Superman. But, as you've probably deduced, in the Play as Iconic bonus mode, you'll get to play as DC heroes (or villains) in a 2-on-2 PvP match.

Continue reading Preview: DC Universe Online 'Play as Iconic' arena battle mode

JoystiqPreview: DC Universe Online 'Play as Iconic' arena battle mode originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Jul 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batmancomic-con-2010dc-universe-onlinepcplaystationps3sony-online-entertainmentThu, 29 Jul 2010 19:00:00 EST