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[EA now has 25 million registered Play4Free accounts worldwide]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/13/ea-now-has-25-million-registered-play4free-accounts-worldwide/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/13/ea-now-has-25-million-registered-play4free-accounts-worldwide/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/13/ea-now-has-25-million-registered-play4free-accounts-worldwide/#comments EA's move into the freemium market appears to be working, with the company boasting yesterday that it now has a total of 25 million registered players across all Play4Free titles. Of course, that number is far less impressive if those people aren't actively playing, but that hasn't stopped EA from patting itself on the back and calling the number a "remarkable achievement." For those keeping score at home, that's 25 million registered players combined in Battlefield Heroes, Need for Speed World, Battlefield Play4Free, Dragon Age Legends, Battleforge and Lord of Ultima.

Battlefield Heroes and Need for Speed World are the top dogs, each with a registered base of players exceeding ten million.The remaining five million comes from the total players registered in the other four games. "Developing a community of 25 million players is a remarkable achievement. It is a testament to the explosive growth of the free-to-play market and a reflection of EA's commitment to spearheading the digital transformation," said Play4Free VP Sean Decker in the press release.

As a thanks to the community for taking time to at least register for its games, EA is offering some free in-game bux for its two heavy hitters: entering promo code EQ9M-TYYT-TXR3-5GU3 will net players 300 Battlefunds in Battlefield Heroes, while promo code EWPD-3KGA-VBVF-9HYS is good for 750 SpeedBoost in Need for Speed World. Codes expire on January 17, 2012 at 12:00 AM GMT.

JoystiqEA now has 25 million registered Play4Free accounts worldwide originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Jan 2012 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-heroesbattlefield-play4freeeafree-to-playfreemiumlords-of-ultimamacneed-for-speed-worldpcFri, 13 Jan 2012 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlefield Heroes adding content every day up until Christmas]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/02/battlefield-heroes-adding-content-every-day-up-until-christmas/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/02/battlefield-heroes-adding-content-every-day-up-until-christmas/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/02/battlefield-heroes-adding-content-every-day-up-until-christmas/#comments EA is taking a cue from those advent calendars, but instead of giving us a piece of scrumptious milk chocolate every day, they're adding content to Battlefield Heroes on the daily leading up to Christmas. Today, it's a pair of new battle rifles: the M16-203 and AK74-30.

Outside of guns, there also promised events, additional content and more. Sorry, no word on the chocolate thing. Frankly, if we don't get at least one Hershey Kiss in the mail this month, we're going to boycott the game forever, in a totally rational and real way. If there's one thing we don't joke about here, it's seasonal chocolates.

JoystiqBattlefield Heroes adding content every day up until Christmas originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Dec 2011 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advent-calendarbattlefield-heroeschristmaschristmas-calendareafree-to-playpcFri, 02 Dec 2011 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlefield Heroes captures Capture the Flag today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/21/battlefield-heroes-captures-capture-the-flag-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/21/battlefield-heroes-captures-capture-the-flag-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/21/battlefield-heroes-captures-capture-the-flag-today/#comments There are few things in gaming more satisfying then the planting of an enemy's flag in a friendly home base. If you've been turned off of Battlefield Heroes' lack of abductable pennants, you should give the game a second look: Capture the Flag mode is now available.

JoystiqBattlefield Heroes captures Capture the Flag today originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 Nov 2011 22:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-heroescapture-the-flagdiceeafree-to-playMon, 21 Nov 2011 22:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlefield Heroes go Savage in new content pack]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/23/battlefield-heroes-go-savage-in-new-content-pack/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/23/battlefield-heroes-go-savage-in-new-content-pack/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/23/battlefield-heroes-go-savage-in-new-content-pack/#comments Savage heroes are now available in Battlefield Heroes.
Thoughts we had while watching this Battlefield Heroes trailer for the new Savage Heroes content pack coming out this summer: Whoa, EA is really changing around the ol' Battlefield formula with this one, eh? Axes? "Cold North"? Is it possible they're turning the free-to-play persistent online shooter into a free-to-play hack-and-slash deathmatch? That would be pretty rad!

Oh, no wait. It's actually some new savage-styled skins and costumes for the Battlefield Heroes fighters. Oh well -- that's pretty rad, too. As the trailer says, the new pack is available in the game's online store right now.

JoystiqBattlefield Heroes go Savage in new content pack originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Aug 2011 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-heroescontentcustomizableeaitemspcsavage-heroesTue, 23 Aug 2011 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlefield Heroes celebrates two years with new map, free content]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/01/battlefield-heroes-celebrates-two-years-with-new-map-free-conte/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/01/battlefield-heroes-celebrates-two-years-with-new-map-free-conte/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/01/battlefield-heroes-celebrates-two-years-with-new-map-free-conte/#comments If you give it to them for free, they will come -- at least, we think that's how it works. As a thanks to those who've stuck around for two years (through thick and thin) and for reaching a milestone of eight million players, Battlefield Heroes is adding the popular franchise map Wake Island later this month.

It's part of a summer promotion that extends through the next month or so. Aside from the new map, EA is also giving away two free Party Packs to players who log in between now and July 7 at 11:59pm PT. Each pack includes 77 Battlefunds, 25 Festive Flares, a permanent Party Hat exclusive to this promotion and a seven day rental to dress your hero in a Birthday Suit. We, uh, hope that isn't what we think it is. To snag your free Party Packs, simply log in to the Battlefield Heroes website, go through the My Stuff tab and select Rewards.

Finally, there are two new Extraordinary Hero item sets you can pick up, which not only give you a futuristic look, but also super powers such as a super jump and a speed boost. See both Metallo and Captain Royal in action above, whose super powers could be yours for a nominal fee. If only we could buy super powers in real life like that!

Continue reading Battlefield Heroes celebrates two years with new map, free content

JoystiqBattlefield Heroes celebrates two years with new map, free content originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Jul 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefieldbattlefield-heroesea-easyfree-to-playmacpcwake-islandFri, 01 Jul 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Before disbanding, LulzSec releases Battlefield Heroes data]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/27/lulzsec-releases-battlefield-heroes-data/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/27/lulzsec-releases-battlefield-heroes-data/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/27/lulzsec-releases-battlefield-heroes-data/#comments The sextet of hackers known as "Lulz Security" may be done with their 50-day reign of semi-terror, but that doesn't mean the ramifications of their actions are over. In a final file released alongside yesterday's statement, the group released info from approximately 550,000 Battlefield Heroes beta user accounts (according to Rock, Paper, Shotgun) as well as the info from roughly 50,000 "random gaming forum" users. EA tells Eurogamer that the info was from "an early beta version" of the game, and "no emails, account history, credit card numbers or payment methods" were obtained.

Apparently the breach took down BF Heroes servers over the weekend, though EA also explained that it has recovered the free-to-play FPS to operational status. And though it's possible that some of the group's handiwork has yet to be discovered, we're hopeful that this is the last story of a breach we'll be writing after the hacking group's disbandment.

JoystiqBefore disbanding, LulzSec releases Battlefield Heroes data originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 27 Jun 2011 14:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-heroeseaelectronic-artsfree-to-playhackerslulz-securitylulzsecmacpcMon, 27 Jun 2011 14:20:00 EST<![CDATA[ngmoco to launch Swedish branch with former EA Easy boss Ben Cousins]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/21/ngmoco-to-launch-swedish-branch-with-former-ea-easy-boss-ben-cou/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/21/ngmoco-to-launch-swedish-branch-with-former-ea-easy-boss-ben-cou/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/21/ngmoco-to-launch-swedish-branch-with-former-ea-easy-boss-ben-cou/#comments When Ben Cousins left EA Easy as head of the studio earlier this year, he didn't leave a forwarding address. Cousins and his new employer revealed today his position as head of newly formed ngmoco Sweden, where he'll be leading the studio in the development of "freemium games for mobile platforms like iOS/Android" (according to Cousins' Twitter feed). His last major project with EA was Battlefield Play 4 Free.

The official PR from ngmoco puts the Swedish branch in a position of support for parent company DeNA's "Mobage" social gaming platforms. And the new studios puts Cousins in a position to hire up colleagues in a part of the world ripe for the picking -- Sweden. Don't be surprised if you see some high profile ex-DICE staffers showing up at ngmoco's new Swedish office over the next few months, as we totally warned you.

[Image credit: OfficialGDC]

Joystiqngmoco to launch Swedish branch with former EA Easy boss Ben Cousins originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Jun 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidbattlefield-heroesbattlefield-play-4-freeben-cousinsDeNAea-diceea-easyelectronic-artsmacmobagemobilengmocongmoco-swedenpcswedenTue, 21 Jun 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Benjamin Cousins leaves EA ahead of Play4Free launch]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/benjamin-cousins-leaves-ea-ahead-of-play4free-launch/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/benjamin-cousins-leaves-ea-ahead-of-play4free-launch/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/benjamin-cousins-leaves-ea-ahead-of-play4free-launch/#comments Today marks the beginning of the closed beta testing process for Battlefield Play4Free (with an open beta set to kick off April 4) -- making the announcement of EA Easy boss Ben Cousins' departure all the more perplexing. Cousins recently announced his exit from the developer on Twitter, saying he's "very proud of what I've achieved in the last 4 years." He didn't say what his next job opportunity is, only teasing, "soon as I can, I let everyone know."

Cousins was instrumental in the development of EA's recent salvo of free-to-play titles like Battlefield Heroes, Lord of Ultima and BattleForge, which actually made the transition from a retail release to an F2P title. We wish Cousins the best of luck at whatever his new home may be, and hope that he continues to make things cost zero money. You're doing the Lord's work, Ben.

JoystiqBenjamin Cousins leaves EA ahead of Play4Free launch originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 31 Mar 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-heroesbattlefield-play4freebattleforgeben-cousinsdepartureea-easylord-of-ultimapcThu, 31 Mar 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlefield Heroes bonuses are brought to you by the letters E, A, and the number 7]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/08/battlefield-heroes-bonuses-are-brought-to-you-by-the-letters-e/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/08/battlefield-heroes-bonuses-are-brought-to-you-by-the-letters-e/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/08/battlefield-heroes-bonuses-are-brought-to-you-by-the-letters-e/#comments Battlefield Heroes, EA's free-to-play shooter, appears to be a success, with the company announcing that 7 million people have felt free to play the game so far. To celebrate those 7 million registered users, EA is offering a bunch of bonuses to players, all themed with the number 7.

For seven days, today through March 15, Heroes players can download a free pack containing 77 bandages, 77 Battlefunds, and 77 wrenches. You can then reinvest those Battlefunds (and, uh, 700 more) into a special weeklong store deal containing seven-day boosts for VP, XP, and Sarge's stamina, along with 777 tonics.

This deal doesn't just reward current players, it provides subtle motivation for those players to bring more in. Don't you want those 10-million-player bonuses?

JoystiqBattlefield Heroes bonuses are brought to you by the letters E, A, and the number 7 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 Mar 2011 10:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-heroesbonuselectronic-artsfree-to-playpcTue, 08 Mar 2011 10:52:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlefield Heroes is far from 'practically ruined,' GM Ben Cousins says]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/03/battlefield-heroes-is-far-from-practically-ruined-gm-ben-cous/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/03/battlefield-heroes-is-far-from-practically-ruined-gm-ben-cous/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/03/battlefield-heroes-is-far-from-practically-ruined-gm-ben-cous/#comments Today's GDC panel on Battlefield Heroes had general manager Ben Cousins rectifying the misconceptions about his studio's first free-to-play Battlefield game being "practically ruined." Cousins' talk centered around the allegations made by press (originating with his game's own forumgoers) that paid weapons were introduced that allegedly unbalanced the game in favor of players willing to shell out cash.

Rather than panicking and reacting directly to the loudest voices -- and perhaps some overly reactionary press -- Easy Studio instead applied math. The develoeprs noticed that, despite all the negative attention, user numbers weren't dropping. Furthermore, they took the information of their forum members and discovered that, while the average BFH player would spend around 25 cents per month, forum members were spending -- on average -- about $22 (dollars!) per month.

Moreover, the actively complaining population only made up about 2 percent of the overall player base. What Cousins' team discovered as a result is that most folks playing the game really didn't care about the introduction of the paid weapons. Cousins likened it to fancy sports equipment -- while it might impart a slight advantage to folks willing to pay, the disparity was made up for by the game's mechanics. User numbers remained consistent and, eventually, the complaints subsided.

Having established what he considers to be this working business model in Heroes, Cousins is confident in East Studio's next effort, Battlefield Play4Free.

JoystiqBattlefield Heroes is far from 'practically ruined,' GM Ben Cousins says originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Mar 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-heroesben-cousinsdiceeaeasy-studioselectronic-artsfreemiumgdcgdc-2011pcplay-for-freeThu, 03 Mar 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Space 2 characters now dismembering Battlefield Heroes characters]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/11/dead-space-2-characters-now-dismembering-battlefield-heroes-char/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/11/dead-space-2-characters-now-dismembering-battlefield-heroes-char/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/11/dead-space-2-characters-now-dismembering-battlefield-heroes-char/#comments Battlefield Heroes has always had a pretty fun, lighthearted theme powering its neverending conflict -- so, of course, a natural fit for that universe would be outfits from the decidedly heavyhearted Dead Space 2 universe. Check out the trailer below to watch these distinct worlds collide.

Continue reading Dead Space 2 characters now dismembering Battlefield Heroes characters

JoystiqDead Space 2 characters now dismembering Battlefield Heroes characters originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Jan 2011 13:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-heroesdead-space-2dicedlceapcTue, 11 Jan 2011 13:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlefield Play4Free engages hostiles in Spring 2011]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/05/battlefield-play4free-engages-hostiles-in-spring-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/05/battlefield-play4free-engages-hostiles-in-spring-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/05/battlefield-play4free-engages-hostiles-in-spring-2011/#comments Following a tease earlier this week, EA has announced Battlefield Play4Free this morning, a freemium title that will support 32-player online warfare. The game will activate in the spring of 2011 but, if you just can't wait, you can enlist early and test out the closed beta beginning November 30. Aesthetically -- and, apparently, in tone -- BP4F appears to be a departure from EA's other freemium warfare title, Battlefield Heroes, which has a cartoony, colorful nature (though the two games will share a single "battlefunds" wallet, confirms Ben Cousins of developer Easy, an EA Games studio).

Easy's Battlefield Play4Free will combine maps from Battlefield 2 with the classes and weapons found in the hit (and neglected) Battlefield: Bad Company 2. Players can drive 16 different vehicles, including the F35 VTOL (vertical take-off landing) jet fighter -- which certainly isn't found in BFBC2. Players will progress through the game to learn skills or, as you've probably already guessed, drop some f'real bling to pimp out their soldier.

Gallery: Battlefield Play4Free

Continue reading Battlefield Play4Free engages hostiles in Spring 2011

JoystiqBattlefield Play4Free engages hostiles in Spring 2011 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 05 Nov 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefieldbattlefield-heroesbattlefield-play4freeea-easyeasyfree-to-playfreemiumpcrelease-dateFri, 05 Nov 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlefield Heroes become adorable Tier 1 Operators with Medal of Honor outfits]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/14/battlefield-heroes-become-adorable-tier-1-operators-with-medal-o/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/14/battlefield-heroes-become-adorable-tier-1-operators-with-medal-o/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/14/battlefield-heroes-become-adorable-tier-1-operators-with-medal-o/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Playing military dress up doesn't get any cuter than Battlefield Heroes. Of course, we never expected to see the beard-clad, rough and tough Tier 1 Operators from Medal of Honor show up in EA's free-to-play FPS, but here they are. Outfits for Tier 1 Elites and Specialists are already available, with Operatives and Captains becoming available in "early October."

At that time, Battlefield Heroes will also be adding a new map in "Alpine Assault," liberally peppered with the cadre of new weapons (six total). Head past the break for a video of the new content in action.

Continue reading Battlefield Heroes become adorable Tier 1 Operators with Medal of Honor outfits

JoystiqBattlefield Heroes become adorable Tier 1 Operators with Medal of Honor outfits originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Sep 2010 13:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alpine-assaultbattlefield-heroesdicedlceaelectronic-artsmacmedal-of-honor-2010pctier-1-operatorTue, 14 Sep 2010 13:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlefield Heroes celebrates first birthday with free in-game items]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/29/battlefield-heroes-celebrates-first-birthday-with-free-in-game-i/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/29/battlefield-heroes-celebrates-first-birthday-with-free-in-game-i/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/29/battlefield-heroes-celebrates-first-birthday-with-free-in-game-i/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Wow, has it already been a year since DICE's freemium version of its popular Battlefield FPS series, Battlefield Heroes, launched on the PC? Sure enough, that's the case and EA is looking to celebrate by hooking up players with a free $5 voucher for use in-game, which can be redeemed here to unlock a two-day XP boost, a two-day VP boost and 25 bandages. You'll have to act fast, as the code below is only valid until tomorrow:
  • 49TP-ZJB7-NVTR-P8AE
Other than free in-game items, EA also offers some stats on the first year of the game. Turns out, more than 4.8 million players have registered for play and the community as a whole has managed to commit 1.2 billion heinous murders in a total of 29 million hours of gameplay -- equal to 3,724 years, you monsters.

JoystiqBattlefield Heroes celebrates first birthday with free in-game items originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 Jun 2010 21:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefieldbattlefield-heroesdiceeaelectronic-artsfree-to-playfreemiumTue, 29 Jun 2010 21:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlefield Heroes deploys a double XP weekend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/22/battlefield-heroes-deploys-a-double-xp-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/22/battlefield-heroes-deploys-a-double-xp-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/22/battlefield-heroes-deploys-a-double-xp-weekend/#comments From today through 5:59 p.m. EDT on Sunday, May 23, Battlefield Heroes players can input the following code to earn double the XP they normally would for playing: 5RH4-G9WR-MVV2-Q4E7. Just enter the code on this page, then it's off to the races -- er, the battlefield, rather.

You've got to give it up to DICE, who has managed to keep its free-to-play shooter fresh through steady content updates -- the latest of which includes a new map and mode centered around jetpacks. And that, folks, is how you enlist over three million players.

[Via Big Download]

JoystiqBattlefield Heroes deploys a double XP weekend originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 22 May 2010 02:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefieldBattlefield-Heroesdicedigital-illusionsdouble-xpdouble-xp-weekendeaea-diceElectronic-ArtsSat, 22 May 2010 02:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlefield Heroes gets jetpacks, new map and new game mode]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/19/battlefield-heroes-gets-jetpacks-new-map-and-new-game-mode/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/19/battlefield-heroes-gets-jetpacks-new-map-and-new-game-mode/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/19/battlefield-heroes-gets-jetpacks-new-map-and-new-game-mode/#commentsDICE's freemium FPS, Battlefield Heroes, has had its finger on the pulse of what's hip for quite some time now. It offered content for sad MJ fans when the King of Pop passed away and even implemented some supernatural content when that New Moon flick came out. Then there was the latest stuff celebrating the release of Battlefield: Bad Company 2.

DICE clearly hasn't forgotten about its baby and now, for its three million and growing userbase, it's offering a trio of new goodies, headlined by the new in vogue multiplayer item: jetpacks. Players will use the jetpacks on a map called Midnight Mayhem, which sports a brand-new game mode called V2 Vengeance -- players must battle to capture and control a giant rocket.

The content is available right now, so head on over to the Battlefield Heroes site if you want to throw down.

JoystiqBattlefield Heroes gets jetpacks, new map and new game mode originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Apr 2010 18:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefieldBattlefield-HeroesdiceeaElectronic-Artsfpsfree-to-playfreemiumJetPackjetpacksMon, 19 Apr 2010 18:34:00 EST<![CDATA[EA launches free-to-play Tiger Woods PGA Tour Online, stands by its man]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/06/ea-launches-free-to-play-tiger-woods-pga-tour-online-stands-by/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/06/ea-launches-free-to-play-tiger-woods-pga-tour-online-stands-by/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/06/ea-launches-free-to-play-tiger-woods-pga-tour-online-stands-by/#comments Electronic Arts has officially launched Tiger Woods PGA Tour Online, its free-to-play version of the popular golf game. Players can sign in with an EA persona and play a limited number of featured courses for free (St. Andrews and Sheshan are the two currently available), while earning XP and money for the in-game Pro Shop. Alternatively, for you fat cats out there, packages of points are also available for $10, $20, and $40 that can be spent on in-game items or rounds of golf at locked courses.

The game also offers group tournaments and friend-to-friend messaging -- essentially, it's very much EA's attempt to bring the successful Battlefield Heroes model to a new audience. In an interview with CNBC today, Peter Moore made it clear that they're behind both star Tiger Woods and this game. The free-to-play title is designed to pull in an audience of "40-year golfers, mostly male," Moore said, adding that "it's our job to upsell them." If EA Sports can do that as well as the Battlefield Heroes team has, then we may see even more of these free-to-play online titles from the company.

JoystiqEA launches free-to-play Tiger Woods PGA Tour Online, stands by its man originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Apr 2010 22:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-heroesEAEA-Sportsea-tiburonelectronic-artsfree-to-playmicrotransactionsPeter-MooreTiger-Woodstiger-woods-pge-tour-onlineTue, 06 Apr 2010 22:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlefield Heroes gets decked out in Bad Company 2 gear]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/16/battlefield-heroes-gets-decked-out-in-bad-company-2-gear/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/16/battlefield-heroes-gets-decked-out-in-bad-company-2-gear/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/16/battlefield-heroes-gets-decked-out-in-bad-company-2-gear/#comments When EA DICE decided to release some downloadable armaments in the original Battlefield: Bad Company, it proved to be a fairly unpopular decision. However, the recently found a way to outfox the gaming community, releasing Bad Company 2 DLC without drawing our ire. How did the studio accomplish such a feat? Easy -- it just released the DLC in a completely different game.

Battlefield Heroes recently received a large push of content inspired by Bad Company, including six modern weapons and the outfits of George Haggard and Kirilenko. Best of all, if you log onto Heroes while using an account that's also linked to Bad Company 2, you'll receive the Battlefunds required to purchase the new gear. Check out the new equipment in the trailer posted after the jump.

[Thanks Graeme!]

Continue reading Battlefield Heroes gets decked out in Bad Company 2 gear

JoystiqBattlefield Heroes gets decked out in Bad Company 2 gear originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 16 Mar 2010 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-bad-companybattlefield-bad-company-2battlefield-heroescostumedicedlceaElectronic-ArtsTue, 16 Mar 2010 16:20:00 EST<![CDATA[DICE 'investigating' Battlefield: Bad Company 2 on Mac]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/09/dice-investigating-bad-company-2-on-mac/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/09/dice-investigating-bad-company-2-on-mac/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/09/dice-investigating-bad-company-2-on-mac/#comments Okay, Mac gamers, take a deep breath. It's been a busy day. Steam is coming to the Mac. The Left 4 Dead games will even support multiplayer across PC and Mac platforms. You're just not used to all this attention, we understand. Bear with it though, because there's more on the way. In a recent tweet, DICE's Karl Magnus Troedsson stated, "We like it!" in reference to Valve's Mac Steam announcement. When asked by UGDB.com whether the company had plans for a Mac version of Battlefield: Bad Company 2, Troedsson responded, "We're currently investigating the possibility of making BFBC2 available on Mac."

It wouldn't be the first time a Battlefield game was ported to Mac -- the most recent being Battlefield: 2142 -- but it could be the first Battlefield released on Mac via Steam. Again, Mac gamers, it's a lot to take in. Try to get some sleep and we'll start fresh tomorrow.

JoystiqDICE 'investigating' Battlefield: Bad Company 2 on Mac originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Mar 2010 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bad-companybad-company-2battlefield-bad-company-2Battlefield-Heroesdiceeaelectronic-artsTue, 09 Mar 2010 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Facebook nabbing its first FPS: Brave Arms]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/06/facebook-nabbing-its-first-fps-brave-arms/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/06/facebook-nabbing-its-first-fps-brave-arms/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/06/facebook-nabbing-its-first-fps-brave-arms/#comments Our biggest gripe with Facebook "games" most times is the lack of actual gameplay involved in them. Things like Mafia Wars seem much more like stat management spreadsheets couched in a social networking medium rather than games with a social media component. That said, it seems that 3G Studios is bringing a full on 3D shooter to the website in Brave Arms, announced this week and set for a March launch.

As the screenshot above corroborates, Brave Arms puts players in the first-person perspective for a Team Fortress 2-eque cartoony death match. CEO James Kosta says in the press release announcing the game that, "Our new title, Brave Arms, will bring first-person shooter games to the masses." Snarkier, meaner bloggers might mention games like Doom, Quake, Halo, or Call of Duty at this point, but we wouldn't do that. Nope. No sir. We'd just say something like, "How has EA not jumped on Facebook with Battlefield Heroes, nonetheless id Software/Bethesda with Quake Live?" As you might imagine with this type of free-to-play fare, there will be some form of microtransactions, though nothing has been explicitly detailed just yet.

Gallery: Brave Arms

[Via Games.com]

JoystiqFacebook nabbing its first FPS: Brave Arms originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 06 Feb 2010 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3g-studiosbattlefield-heroesbrave-armscall-of-dutyfacebookfpshalojames-kostamicrotransactionsquakequake-liveteam-fortress-2Sat, 06 Feb 2010 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlefield Heroes going all Twilighty for month-long monster mash]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/battlefield-heroes-going-all-twilighty-for-month-long-monster-ma/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/battlefield-heroes-going-all-twilighty-for-month-long-monster-ma/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/battlefield-heroes-going-all-twilighty-for-month-long-monster-ma/#comments Things are going to look pretty different in the world of Battlefield Heroes during the month of February. Soldiers from both factions will soon find themselves embroiled in the "Vampires vs. Werewolves" event, which allows players to purchase costumes based on the two monstrous archetypes. Unfortunately, there's no room for crossovers -- Nationalists are strictly Team Edward, and Loyalists are strictly Team Jacob, and oh man we can't believe we just said that.

In addition to the costumes, both factions will unlock "claw swipe" attacks, and three of the game's maps will be given a new nighttime aesthetic. Check out this battle for Bella's affection cryptozoological dominance in the trailer above.

JoystiqBattlefield Heroes going all Twilighty for month-long monster mash originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Jan 2010 19:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-heroesdiceeaElectronic-Artsfree-to-playpctrailertwilightwerewolveszombiesFri, 29 Jan 2010 19:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Dr Pepper giving away free EA DLC with every purchase]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/dr-pepper-giving-away-free-ea-dlc-with-every-purchase/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/dr-pepper-giving-away-free-ea-dlc-with-every-purchase/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/dr-pepper-giving-away-free-ea-dlc-with-every-purchase/#comments We can only imagine the planning meeting at Dr Pepper HQ, during which someone shouts "We must garner that critical gaming demographic! How will we ever best something as inimitable as Game Fuel?! It's got 'game' right there in the title!" Instead of copycatting the naming idea, though, Dr Pepper recently detailed an already announced partnership with EA to give away codes for downloadable content. The promotion details lists a handful of games -- Mass Effect 2, Battlefield Heroes, The Sims 3, Spore, Battlefield: Bad Company 2 -- which have "unique DLC" tied to them.

Rather than forcing an unknown amount of soda purchases out of its customers, we were told this afternoon by a customer service rep that "Every bottle wins." More specifically, each bottle contains a code that can then be redeemed on the Dr Pepper website, thus allowing participants to choose their system and DLC from an available list. We flatfooted to the local AM/PM and didn't spot the prize-bearing bottles, but we'll update this post with more information as we get it.

JoystiqDr Pepper giving away free EA DLC with every purchase originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jan 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefieldbattlefield-bad-company-2battlefield-heroesdigital-distributiondlcdownloadable-contentdr-peppereaElectronic-Artsgame-fuelmass-effect-2Microsoftpromotionsporethe-sims-3Xbox-360Wed, 06 Jan 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[3 million Battlefield Heroes have been registered, new 'Sunset Showdown' map to celebrate]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/16/3-million-battlefield-heroes-have-been-registered/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/16/3-million-battlefield-heroes-have-been-registered/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/16/3-million-battlefield-heroes-have-been-registered/#comments
click to admire the sunset
We can see calling yourself a hero if you jump into a burning building to save the mayor's newborn son. That's heroism. But what if you're just one in a group of 3 million, as is now the case with EA's free-to-play (but not necessarily free-to-be-good-at) shooter, Battlefield Heroes? Can you really still be a "hero" then? Aren't you just more of a brave dude? Actual hero or not, everyone will get to enjoy a brand new, single-control-point map, "Sunset Showdown," released to mark the occasion.

Semantics aside, we'll be interested to see if the game can continue to grow after the afore-linked-to pricing changes, or if this is the last peak before a downward slide, into sunset.

Gallery: Battlefield Heroes - Sunset Showdown map

Joystiq3 million Battlefield Heroes have been registered, new 'Sunset Showdown' map to celebrate originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-heroesdiceeaEA-DICEElectronic-Artsfree-to-playWed, 16 Dec 2009 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlefield Heroes store updated, offers advantage to microtransacting users]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/battlefield-heroes-store-updated-offers-advantage-to-microtrans/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/battlefield-heroes-store-updated-offers-advantage-to-microtrans/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/battlefield-heroes-store-updated-offers-advantage-to-microtrans/#comments It's difficult to explain the current controversy surrounding Battlefield Heroes without talking a whole lot of inside baseball, so we'll keep it simple. Players of the game are up in arms due to a recent update to the title's in-game store. Though EA and DICE had worked up a balance between the game's two forms of currency -- Valor Points, which you unlock from playing, and Battlefunds, which you purchase with real-life money -- this patch heavily depreciates the value of the former while making the latter a near necessity for those who wish to stay competitive in the game.

Items have had their Valor Point costs increased across the board -- what's more, some of these items can no longer be permanently purchased with Valor Points, but can only be taken on a one or three-day test drive. However, these same items have had their Battlefund costs reduced, and allow purchasers to keep them indefinitely.

If the items being purchased were merely cosmetic, we wouldn't think twice about this shift in fungible value -- however, the torch-wielding mob now moving through the Battlefield Heroes forums seem to think that the shooter's developer has forsaken the more frugal members of its community, giving the wealthy playboys among them an unfair advantage.

JoystiqBattlefield Heroes store updated, offers advantage to microtransacting users originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefieldBattlefield-HeroescontroversydiceeaElectronic-Artsfpsfree-to-playMicrotransactionsonlineTue, 01 Dec 2009 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlefield Heroes update 'Heroes of the Fall' now live]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/30/battlefield-heroes-update-heroes-of-the-fall-now-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/30/battlefield-heroes-update-heroes-of-the-fall-now-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/30/battlefield-heroes-update-heroes-of-the-fall-now-live/#comments It may seem like a contradiction, but it is possible to make "free" an even better value. Just look at Battlefield Heroes; the game just added a boatload of new content (we've got a full list after the break) as part of its "Heroes of the Fall" update, and it's still all delectably free.

If you can't be troubled to read a whole list, some of the most notable changes include a new map called "Riverside Rush" and some improved social networking functionality. And, as you can see above, the update features a guest appearance by the Sepia-Toned Village People, who we hear are huge in the Netherlands.

Continue reading Battlefield Heroes update 'Heroes of the Fall' now live

JoystiqBattlefield Heroes update 'Heroes of the Fall' now live originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 Sep 2009 17:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefieldbattlefield-heroesdiceeaElectronic-Artsfree-to-playheroes-of-the-fallupdateWed, 30 Sep 2009 17:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlefield Heroes enlists two million recruits]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/26/battlefield-heroes-enlists-two-million-recruits/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/26/battlefield-heroes-enlists-two-million-recruits/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/26/battlefield-heroes-enlists-two-million-recruits/#comments DICE's free-to-play FPS, Battlefield Heroes, just had its two millionth soldier signed up for duty, EA announced. It's an impressive accomplishment considering the game only opened its doors in June and netted its first million users back in July. And as a reward for all of the players' hard work gaming, EA has dated the title's Heroes of the Fall update for September 30.

We already knew about the proposed changes to the game's social networking functions and the class updates, but there's also the prospect of a new map to be excited about. EA is taking name ideas for the new locale right now at the game's official site, so head on over and suggest one. If you're looking for a bit of inspiration, may we suggest The Joystiq Map of Joystiqing Joystiq: Joystiq?

JoystiqBattlefield Heroes enlists two million recruits originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 26 Sep 2009 06:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefieldbattlefield-heroesdiceeaElectronic-Artsfpsfree-to-playSat, 26 Sep 2009 06:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlefield Heroes updates coming in 'Heroes of the Fall']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/21/battlefield-heroes-updates-coming-in-heroes-of-the-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/21/battlefield-heroes-updates-coming-in-heroes-of-the-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/21/battlefield-heroes-updates-coming-in-heroes-of-the-fall/#comments EA and DICE's free-to-play online shooter Battlefield Heroes is getting some TLC in the form of "Heroes of the Fall," a series of updates and changes that will presumably be released this ... fall. The game's official blog has news about the update coming in a slow drip -- for now, we know the Gunner class will be getting some major improvements, and all players will receive military rankings to go along with their current levels.

Also getting a revamp is the game's social networking functions, making it easier to keep track of your in-game friends. Just make sure you don't befriend any of those dastardly Nationals. They simply cannot be trusted!

[Via Big Download]

JoystiqBattlefield Heroes updates coming in 'Heroes of the Fall' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 Sep 2009 10:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-heroesdiceeaElectronic-Artsheroes-of-the-fallonlinepatchpcupdateMon, 21 Sep 2009 10:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlefield Heroes stats: free-to-play, but plenty will pay]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/13/battlefield-heroes-stats-free-to-play-but-plenty-will-pay/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/13/battlefield-heroes-stats-free-to-play-but-plenty-will-pay/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/13/battlefield-heroes-stats-free-to-play-but-plenty-will-pay/#comments With its hands on some stats from EA, IGN estimates that Battlefield Heroes -- the free-to-play microtransaction-based online shooter -- has brought in almost $30 million, with the average "buyer" spending about $20 on the game. The most popular purchased items are the sleek Kommendant's Coat, Special Forces Officer Cap and Maverik's Sunglasses. A healthy 76 percent of "Battlefunds" (the game's currency) are spent on clothing, with a majority of the rest going to XP boosts.

The piece is packed with neat statistics on the game. Did you know that there are 1.5 million players across 133 countries, though 75% of users are from just ten countries (none of which are in Asia), including Brazil and Poland?

Gallery: Battlefield Heroes

JoystiqBattlefield Heroes stats: free-to-play, but plenty will pay originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 Aug 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-heroesdiceeaelectronic-artsmicrotransactionsThu, 13 Aug 2009 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlefield Heroes registers over 1 million players]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/14/battlefield-heroes-registers-over-1-million-players/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/14/battlefield-heroes-registers-over-1-million-players/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/14/battlefield-heroes-registers-over-1-million-players/#comments
The growth of Battlefield Heroes has been slow and steady -- a natural side-effect of EA and DICE's slow trickle release of beta codes for the free-to-play shooter. However, on June 25, Heroes' floodgates were flung wide open, letting every would-be cartoon soldier access to the title. Now, about 19 days since that fateful event, EA has revealed some impressive statistics: Over one million players have registered for the online battle.

That's quite a few digital soldiers, but we're curious to know how many of those decided to purchase fancy hats for their militaristic avatars, and whether EA is turning a profit thanks to the sale of said chapeaus. We've emailed EA to try and find out.

[Via Big Download]

JoystiqBattlefield Heroes registers over 1 million players originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Jul 2009 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefieldbattlefield-heroesdiceeaEA-DICEElectronic-ArtsonlineTue, 14 Jul 2009 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[(Another) Michael Jackson video game on the way, scheduled for a 'holiday release']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/11/another-michael-jackson-video-game-on-the-way-scheduled-for-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/11/another-michael-jackson-video-game-on-the-way-scheduled-for-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/11/another-michael-jackson-video-game-on-the-way-scheduled-for-a/#comments
After the King of Pop's passing last week, Joystiq has had an inordinately high volume of Michael Jackson-related stories. Day after day, the video game industry honored his passing -- free "Thriller" downloads on Xbox Live, Battlefield Heroes costumes, and a full on recreation of "Smooth Criminal" using Rag Doll Kung Fu's engine. Today, less than a full week after the singer's death, his production company (MJJ Productions) confirmed to MCVUK that a game starring Jackson and featuring his music has been in production at MJJ for "several months" and is purportedly on schedule to release "this holiday season."

Though no definitive "yes" or "no" has been given on the game's release (or any info on the developer, publisher, or the game itself), reports say the game contains recent voice recordings by the singer. The closest we get to actual information on the game's release window is, "I am sure it will still be released ... Michael loved games," by way of an MJJ Productions rep. Here's hoping it's more Moonwalker and less Space Channel 5 -- but then, that's just how we get down.

[Via Industry Gamers]

Joystiq(Another) Michael Jackson video game on the way, scheduled for a 'holiday release' originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 11 Jul 2009 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-heroesking-of-popmcvmcvukmichael-jacksonmjj-productionsmoonwalkerrag-doll-kung-fuspace-channel-5thrillerSat, 11 Jul 2009 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Michael Jackson honored in Battlefield Heroes, kind of [update: Costumes will be free]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/30/michael-jackson-honored-in-battlefield-heroes-kind-of/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/30/michael-jackson-honored-in-battlefield-heroes-kind-of/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/30/michael-jackson-honored-in-battlefield-heroes-kind-of/#comments
Update: Electronic Arts has contacted us to let us know that the outfits will be free. Multiplayer has updated its own story, noting that the prices mentioned were seen on the Battlefield Heroes test servers. Upon release to the actual public, they will be offered at the consumer-friendly price of no dollars. Original post is below.

In a touching display of respect for the recently deceased King of Pop, Electronic Arts has uploaded a pair of the music legend's iconic outfits to Battlefield Heroes -- one for each of the game's two factions. Members of the Royal Army can now drape themselves in the white suit worn by Michael Jackson in the "Smooth Criminal" music video, while National Army recruits can don the black leather apparel featured in "Bad." This is a really neat way for EA to show -- wait a sec, you have to pay for them?

You're telling us that EA is charging 420 Battlefunds (about $3) for these outfits? Well, surely, they're donating the money to sick kids or something, right? No? They're just ... keeping it? That's sorta messed up, guys.

JoystiqMichael Jackson honored in Battlefield Heroes, kind of [update: Costumes will be free] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 30 Jun 2009 18:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-heroescostumedicedlceaElectronic-Artsmichael-jacksonoutfitTue, 30 Jun 2009 18:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlefield Heroes now open to the masses]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/25/battlefield-heroes-now-open-to-the-masses/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/25/battlefield-heroes-now-open-to-the-masses/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/25/battlefield-heroes-now-open-to-the-masses/#comments
We're so excited that we can finally share our love of Battlefield Heroes with the whole world. The casual, free-to-play shooter has (finally) gone live, and you can start outfitting your soldier right now.

While the game itself is free, if you want to level up faster, get special emotes and exclusive weapons, you're going to need to shell out some cash. But there's no need to worry about that at the moment -- just go, start up an account and feel free to swap your usernames below.

[Via BD]

JoystiqBattlefield Heroes now open to the masses originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Jun 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefieldbattlefield-heroesdiceeaElectronic-Artsfree-to-playpcThu, 25 Jun 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumorong: Battlefield Heroes not heading to PS3/360 [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/17/rumor-battlefield-heroes-heading-to-ps3-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/17/rumor-battlefield-heroes-heading-to-ps3-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/17/rumor-battlefield-heroes-heading-to-ps3-360/#comments
Though we're running this one under the "likely an error and probably not a hot scoop" category, a listing for Battlefield Heroes on PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 has appeared on the EA press site. Pointed out by GOONLINE (their caps, not ours), the listing posits a June 2009 release date -- interesting considering the PC version of the game has been marred by delays. The site also pegs the PC version with a September release, a significantly more solid release date than EA has provided as of late.

At this point, however, we'd like to note that the game's developer, DICE, has stated before its lack of interest in console ports of the game, telling Videogamer.com a year ago, "We could port the engine and do it, I just don't know what we would gain from it. Everyone's who's [sic] got a 360 or PS3 also will have a PC that can run this game." We've reached out for comment from EA and will update you when we hear more.

Update: As expected, EA's Ben Cousins has shot the rumor down.

JoystiqRumorong: Battlefield Heroes not heading to PS3/360 [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 17 May 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-heroesDICEeaelectronic-artsgoonlinerumorSun, 17 May 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fan-named map 'Coastal Clash' coming to Battlefield Heroes soon]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/30/fan-named-map-coastal-clash-coming-to-battlefield-heroes-soon/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/30/fan-named-map-coastal-clash-coming-to-battlefield-heroes-soon/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/30/fan-named-map-coastal-clash-coming-to-battlefield-heroes-soon/#comments
DICE recently opened up the Battlefield Heroes forums to suggestions for the title of the map you see above. The winner, Noobilator, ended up dubbing this particular area Coastal Clash, and it stuck. The map is still in the development process, and needs more play testing before being deployed into battle, but fans of Battlefield Heroes can look forward to destroying this peaceful little village sometime soon.

If you're trying to experience Battlefield Heroes for yourself, and don't have a beta invite, hit up the site. DICE is handing out codes to everyone.

[Via Big Download]

JoystiqFan-named map 'Coastal Clash' coming to Battlefield Heroes soon originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Apr 2009 04:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefieldbattlefield-heroescoastal-clashdiceeaElectronic-ArtsfpsThu, 30 Apr 2009 04:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlefield Heroes still isn't out ... so play this Flash game instead]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/28/battlefield-heroes-still-isnt-out-so-play-this-flash-game-i/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/28/battlefield-heroes-still-isnt-out-so-play-this-flash-game-i/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/28/battlefield-heroes-still-isnt-out-so-play-this-flash-game-i/#comments
Although EA promised the world would be in the middle of a cartoon-shaded war by now, it looks like Battlefield Heroes isn't going to hit the planned Q1 '09 release. If you're one of the unfortunate many who haven't been invited into the party, EA has a quick game that may hold you over.

The official Battlefield Heroes website has released a Flash version of the game to help pass the time before the open beta begins. In the Battlefield Heroes Flash Game players have 60 seconds to shoot as many "Nationals" as they can, who each pop into frame Wack-A-Mole style and await a bullet sandwich. It isn't as sexy as playing the real game, but ... yeah, we got nothing.

[Via BigDownload]

JoystiqBattlefield Heroes still isn't out ... so play this Flash game instead originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 28 Mar 2009 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-heroesdicedigital-illusionseaelectronic-artsflash-gamepcSat, 28 Mar 2009 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DICE's Lars Gustavsson says game industry is at a 'crossroads']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/24/dices-lars-gustavsson-says-game-industry-is-at-a-crossroads/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/24/dices-lars-gustavsson-says-game-industry-is-at-a-crossroads/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/24/dices-lars-gustavsson-says-game-industry-is-at-a-crossroads/#comments
Lars Gustavsson is no stranger to risk. After last year's first-person parkour-based action/platformer Mirror's Edge stumbled off shelves during the holiday season, you'd think DICE's creative director might be dissuaded from continuing to push the envelope. However, speaking at the Design Innovate Communicate Entertertain Summit (conveniently shortened to D.I.C.E.) last week, he told the crowd "the games industry has come to a crossroads."

According to him, the situation is multi-faceted -- the poor economy is forcing lower overhead costs on developers and people are less willing to spend their money while consumers are also less likely to invest in new intellectual properties (such as the aforementioned Mirror's Edge). Should developers play it safe with proven IPs or take risks in hopes of breaking in?

He pontificates that "more customization offerings, new business models, data-driven development and the active tuning of the games" will drive innovation and allay risk going forward. "It's totally different from anything we've done," Gustavsson noted when referencing upcoming online-only multiplayer shooter Battlefield 1943. And he seems to be putting the development costs where his mouth is, as Battlefield 1943 sticks to his plan (on paper at least) to a tee. It remains to be seen whether they'll work out. After all, we're still waiting on that other Battlefield game.

JoystiqDICE's Lars Gustavsson says game industry is at a 'crossroads' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Feb 2009 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefieldbattlefield-1943battlefield-heroesbusinessdicedice-2009economyedge-magazinelars-gustavssonmirrors-edgeTue, 24 Feb 2009 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlefield Heroes now aiming for Q1 '09 release]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/04/battlefield-heroes-could-possibly-maybe-release-by-march/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/04/battlefield-heroes-could-possibly-maybe-release-by-march/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/04/battlefield-heroes-could-possibly-maybe-release-by-march/#comments
After announcing a delay last Summer (and missing the planned '08 release), then closing and subsequently re-opening the beta, EA has informed us that its ready to bring the online-exclusive Battlefield Heroes to the gaming masses ... relatively soon.

According to a supplement (PDF) included in EA's latest investor report, Battlefield Heroes should be released by quarter's end. That means if EA and DICE can keep development on track, we'll be blasting cartoonified soldiers in Heroes by March, at the latest.

JoystiqBattlefield Heroes now aiming for Q1 '09 release originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Feb 2009 10:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefieldbattlefield-heroesdiceeaElectronic-ArtsonlineWed, 04 Feb 2009 10:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlefield Heroes beta rolling back into action]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/23/battlefield-heroes-beta-rolling-back-into-action/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/23/battlefield-heroes-beta-rolling-back-into-action/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/23/battlefield-heroes-beta-rolling-back-into-action/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Things have been quiet on Battlefield Heroes' front lines since Electronic Arts first called for a ceasefire last November, halting the game's release and sending scores of pastel-colored grunts back to their bunks. Now EA has reopened beta sign-ups, giving the boys in green another chance to enlist.

Still, it's unknown how many players will be admitted into the beta, and greenhorns eager to taste the free-to-play shooter's cartoon action could be left in their barracks. Seasoned vets, however, will get first dibs, and do not need to get back in line, as any players who were already in the beta or had previously signed up will automatically receive an invite to report for duty. As for when soldiers can expect the call to action, EA is saying only to watch for more announcements in the "coming weeks."

[Via Massively]

JoystiqBattlefield Heroes beta rolling back into action originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 Jan 2009 03:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-heroesbattlefieldheroesbetaclosed-betaeaelectronic-artselectronicartsPCFri, 23 Jan 2009 03:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlefield Heroes beta in ceasefire until early '09]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/13/battlefield-heroes-beta-in-ceasefire-until-early-09/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/13/battlefield-heroes-beta-in-ceasefire-until-early-09/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/13/battlefield-heroes-beta-in-ceasefire-until-early-09/#commentsFiled under: ,


Get back behind the sandbags, soldier! No, not those, they're far too realistic. These, more cartoony bags are much better suited to protect your rounded corners and chiseled jaw while waiting for Electronic Arts to decide when Battlefield Heroes will roll onto the front lines. EA once more postponed the official release of its free-to-play shooter, while the closed beta will soon go dark until sometime next year.

James Salt, senior producer on Battlefield Heroes, broke the news on the game's website, writing that the beta will close down Friday night at 6pm CET so the team can focus on "polishing the backend." In the meantime, we expect many brokenhearted, animated grenadiers to keep polishing their oversized rifles until early 2009.

[Via Big Download]

JoystiqBattlefield Heroes beta in ceasefire until early '09 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 Nov 2008 14:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefieldbattlefield-heroesbattlefieldheroesbetaclosed-betadelayeaelectronic-artselectronicartsPCThu, 13 Nov 2008 14:44:00 EST<![CDATA[The Best of Big Download: October 20-27]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/26/the-best-of-big-download-oct-20-27/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/26/the-best-of-big-download-oct-20-27/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/26/the-best-of-big-download-oct-20-27/#commentsFiled under: , ,


What a week. We started with the long awaited BioWare Star Wars MMO announcement, then had the official word on E3 2009 getting big again and ended the week with friggin' NAZI ZOMBIES!. You can't get much better than that.

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JoystiqThe Best of Big Download: October 20-27 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 26 Oct 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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