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 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Limited edition Mass Effect 3 Paladin pistol replica available for pre-order]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/limited-edition-mass-effect-3-paladin-pistol-replica-available-f/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/limited-edition-mass-effect-3-paladin-pistol-replica-available-f/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/limited-edition-mass-effect-3-paladin-pistol-replica-available-f/#commentsLimited edition Mass Effect 3 Paladin pistol replica available for preorder
BioWare has just revealed this snazzy real-life replica version of Mass Effect 3's M-77 Paladin pistol, available for pre-order today. The weapon weighs 7 pounds, is hand-finished and hand-painted, and is one of a set of only 200 made by collectible firm Triforce.

Buying one for yourself will run you a total of $400: You'll need to put down $200 now to reserve your own fake space gun, and then another $200 when it's ready to go, which is expected to be later this year. That's not cheap, but then again nobody said fighting off the Reaper Invasion would be.

JoystiqLimited edition Mass Effect 3 Paladin pistol replica available for pre-order originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 May 2013 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebioware-storemass-effect-3microsoftpaladinpcpistolplaystationps3real-lifereplicastoretriforceweaponxboxWed, 08 May 2013 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Zeschuk: EA 'gives you enough rope to hang yourself,' in a good way]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/10/zeschuk-ea-gives-you-enough-rope-to-hang-yourself-in-a-good/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/10/zeschuk-ea-gives-you-enough-rope-to-hang-yourself-in-a-good/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/10/zeschuk-ea-gives-you-enough-rope-to-hang-yourself-in-a-good/#comments Zeschuk EA 'gives you enough rope to hang yourself'BioWare co-founder Greg Zeschuk is done with the gaming industry, at least from a development standpoint and at least for now, he told Games Industry after receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award with fellow doctor Ray Muzyka at GDC.

"I really don't see myself making a brand-new game developer," Zeschuk said. "I also don't really see myself working for anyone else, at least in the traditional sense. But I can imagine myself, for example, being on a board, consulting ... In building a business and making a game company, it is a kind of been there, done that feeling. When you've checked off all the boxes, why do it again? I don't really imagine a full-time gig in the business appealing to me - I just don't see it."

Zeschuk said he's proud of the creative legacy he cultivated at BioWare, and cites one specific regret of his time there: not making Jade Empire an Xbox 360 launch title. That "would have been massive," Zeschuk said.

EA acquired BioWare in 2007 prior to the launch of Mass Effect, and Zeschuk said he's still happy with that move. The BioWare team never had to conform to EA's standards of microtransactions or forced multiplayer, though it did have to keep the bottom line in mind, he said.

"The best analogy I use, in a positive way, is EA gives you enough rope to hang yourself. It was really interesting because we really made all the choices we wanted to make ourselves; these are all things we wanted to try ... That was the biggest revelation, that rope that EA gives you; they don't second-guess you, they don't say you shouldn't do that. We had complete creative control over a lot of it; some fans didn't like some of it and some of it was experimental, quite frankly."

JoystiqZeschuk: EA 'gives you enough rope to hang yourself,' in a good way originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Apr 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWaredr-greg-zeschukEAElectronic-Artsgreg-zeschukmicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxWed, 10 Apr 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Next Mass Effect, Dragon Age 3 powered by Frostbite 3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/next-mass-effect-dragon-age-3-powered-by-frostbite-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/next-mass-effect-dragon-age-3-powered-by-frostbite-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/next-mass-effect-dragon-age-3-powered-by-frostbite-3/#comments Next Mass Effect, Dragon Age 3 all but confirmed to use Frostbite 3Both the next Mass Effect game and Dragon Age 3: Inquisition use the Frostbite 3 engine, despite initial official word from publisher EA saying otherwise. An official press release for Dragon Age 3 from September 2012 said the upcoming RPG was underpinned by Frostbite 2. However, BioWare Montreal & Edmonton General Manager Aaryn Flynn, following some speculation, took to Twitter to settle the matter.

Flynn tweeted: "For everyone who's been asking after the #BF4 reveal, #DA3 and the next Mass Effect are also using Frostbite 3. It's awesome."

While the Dragon Age 3 press release was explicit, looking back certain BioWare devs were coyer on the matter. BioWare Montreal Studio Director Yanick Roy only said in a November 2012 blog post that DA3 used Frostbite tech, not specifically Frostbite 2. That correlates with the careful wording of DA3 Executive Producer Mark Darrah, who in an announcement post said his studio was working on a new game engine for DA3, and that it had "started with Frostbite 2 from DICE as a foundation to accomplish this."

So Battlefield 4 isn't the only Frostbite 3 game confirmed to be arriving this year, as Dragon Age 3 is scheduled for a "late 2013" release.

JoystiqNext Mass Effect, Dragon Age 3 powered by Frostbite 3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Mar 2013 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebioware-montrealdragon-age-3frostbitefrostbite-2frostbite-3mass-effectThu, 28 Mar 2013 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect 3's 'Citadel' DLC demonstrates the franchise's messy, wonderful soul]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/mass-effect-3s-citadel-dlc-demonstrates-the-franchises-messy/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/mass-effect-3s-citadel-dlc-demonstrates-the-franchises-messy/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/mass-effect-3s-citadel-dlc-demonstrates-the-franchises-messy/#commentsThis is a weekly column from freelancer Rowan Kaiser, which focuses on "Western" role-playing games: their stories, their histories, their mechanics, their insanity, and their inanity.

Mass Effect 3's 'Citadel' DLC demonstrates the franchise's messy, wonderful soul
One of the reasons that the Mass Effect series has been one of the most-discussed franchises of the generation is because the games are many different things to many different people. They're science-fiction epics. They're cover-based shooters. They're dating sims. They're long-term serialized stories. They're slowly wandering through cities in space, engaging in long conversations. They're tough battles against overwhelming odds.

The core divide is between the self-serious saga of Shepard versus the Reapers that the franchise attempts to convey, and the entertaining - if slightly goofy - glorious mess that some perceive it to be. The final story-based expansion for the series, the recently-released 'Citadel' add-on, demonstrates how big that divide can be and then it bridges the gap.

Gallery: Mass Effect 3 - Citadel

Continue reading Mass Effect 3's 'Citadel' DLC demonstrates the franchise's messy, wonderful soul

JoystiqMass Effect 3's 'Citadel' DLC demonstrates the franchise's messy, wonderful soul originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Mar 2013 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWareDLCDownloadable-ContentEAElectronic-Artsmass-effect-3microsoftOpinionpcplaystationps3xboxWed, 20 Mar 2013 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect series for PC on sale via Origin through March 12]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/09/mass-effect-series-for-pc-on-sale-via-origin-through-march-12/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/09/mass-effect-series-for-pc-on-sale-via-origin-through-march-12/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/09/mass-effect-series-for-pc-on-sale-via-origin-through-march-12/#comments Mass Effect series on sale via Origin through March 12

The last iteration of the Mass Effect series went on sale one year ago this week, and to celebrate, EA is offering a big sale on all three versions of the game over on Origin. You can grab the original Mass Effect for just $7, the critically acclaimed Mass Effect 2 for $10, or a digital deluxe edition of the third game for $15, all about half off the standard prices.

Or if you haven't yet taken a trip aboard the Normandy, the whole trilogy is on sale for only $25, which is less than half what it would usually cost. That's a whole lot of excellent gaming hours, but then again, you'll need something to do while waiting for those SimCity servers, right?

[Thanks, Alex]

JoystiqMass Effect series for PC on sale via Origin through March 12 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 09 Mar 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarybiowareeaelectronic-artsmass-effectmass-effect-2mass-effect-3mass-effect-trilogyoriginpcsaleSat, 09 Mar 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Mass Effect 3 Reckoning DLC out today, here's what it entails]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/26/psa-mass-effect-3-reckoning-dlc-out-today-heres-what-it-entai/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/26/psa-mass-effect-3-reckoning-dlc-out-today-heres-what-it-entai/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/26/psa-mass-effect-3-reckoning-dlc-out-today-heres-what-it-entai/#comments

Mass Effect 3's Reckoning multiplayer DLC pack is live today, bringing six new characters, seven new weapons, two weapons mods and four fresh accessories, all for free.

BioWare showed off Reckoning in a livestream yesterday and a NeoGAF user collected the details: The new characters are a Geth Juggernaut, a female biotic Turian, an Alliance Infiltration Unit, Krogan Warlord Sentinel, a human mercenary with a tech bow and a Collector Adept. Weapons include a venom shotgun, a high-powered Blood Pack Executioner Pistol and a Blood Pack Punisher SMG, and the mods are pistol and SMG power amplifiers.

Reckoning is the final Mass Effect 3 multiplayer DLC pack. Citadel, the final round of singleplayer DLC, hits on March 5 ($15/1200 MSP) and will give players the "opportunity to reconnect with some of their favorite characters from all three of the Mass Effect games."

JoystiqPSA: Mass Effect 3 Reckoning DLC out today, here's what it entails originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Feb 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWareDLCmass-effect-3microsoftmultiplayerpcplaystationps3reckoningxboxTue, 26 Feb 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect 3 Citadel DLC stars late Zaeed actor, BioWare pays multiplayer tribute]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/22/mass-effect-3-citadel-dlc-stars-late-zaeed-actor-bioware-pays-m/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/22/mass-effect-3-citadel-dlc-stars-late-zaeed-actor-bioware-pays-m/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/22/mass-effect-3-citadel-dlc-stars-late-zaeed-actor-bioware-pays-m/#comments Mass Effect 3 Citadel DLC stars late Zaeed actor, BioWare pays multiplayer tributeMass Effect 3's newly announced Citadel DLC features Zaeed and the work of Robin Sachs, the late actor who portrayed the bounty hunter. BioWare producer Mike Gamble revealed Sachs' involvement, marking one of the very last pieces of his acting work to be published. Sachs, known for his roles in other BioWare games as well as TV shows Buffy The Vampire Slayer and Babylon 5, passed away earlier this month at the age of 61.

BioWare, following a suggestion from fans on its forums, is also paying its respects to the actor through this weekend's Mass Effect 3 multiplayer operation. The aim of the operation, called 'Tribute,' is to "honor and avenge our comrades who fell - and let the Reapers know this was a mistake, not a victory." The goals are to earn points using the M-8 Avenger and Inferno Grenades, referencing Zaeed's old 'Jessie' rifle and his loyalty power from Mass Effect 2. The operation begins today and runs through to Sunday, February 24.

[Thanks, Sigfodr]

JoystiqMass Effect 3 Citadel DLC stars late Zaeed actor, BioWare pays multiplayer tribute originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Feb 2013 08:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareDLCmass-effect-3microsoftpcplaystationps3robin-sachsxboxzaeedFri, 22 Feb 2013 08:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect 3 'Reckoning' and 'Citadel' DLC on Feb. 26, Mar. 5]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/21/mass-effect-3-reckoning-and-citadel-dlc-hit-feb-26-mar-5/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/21/mass-effect-3-reckoning-and-citadel-dlc-hit-feb-26-mar-5/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/21/mass-effect-3-reckoning-and-citadel-dlc-hit-feb-26-mar-5/#comments Mass Effect 3 'Reckoning' and 'Citadel' DLC hit Feb 26, Mar 5BioWare and EA have announced two more bundles of DLC for Mass Effect 3, with one focused on multiplayer and the other serving as "one final, sentimental journey with Commander Shepard and their squad," according to the press release.

The first batch of content, "Reckoning," is a free bundle of multiplayer DLC that'll be available for free when it lands this Tuesday, February 26. The pack adds new characters, weapons and item upgrades for use in multiplayer, though what any of those things are specifically remains to be seen.

"Citadel," meanwhile, is Mass Effect 3's last chunk of single-player DLC, arriving on March 5 for $14.99/1200 MS Points. The pack returns Shepard and crew to (where else) the Citadel, on a mission that will give players the "opportunity to reconnect with some of their favorite characters from all three of the Mass Effect games." Well, provided you didn't get them horribly murdered, we figure. You know what you did.

Gallery: Mass Effect 3 - Reckoning


Gallery: Mass Effect 3 - Citadel

Continue reading Mass Effect 3 'Reckoning' and 'Citadel' DLC on Feb. 26, Mar. 5

JoystiqMass Effect 3 'Reckoning' and 'Citadel' DLC on Feb. 26, Mar. 5 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 21 Feb 2013 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWareCitadelDLCEAElectronic-Artsmass-effect-3microsoftpcplaystationps3Reckoningrelease-datexboxThu, 21 Feb 2013 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Operation: Heartbreaker brings the Banshees in Mass Effect 3 this weekend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/16/operation-heartbreaker-brings-the-banshees-in-mass-effect-3-thi/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/16/operation-heartbreaker-brings-the-banshees-in-mass-effect-3-thi/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/16/operation-heartbreaker-brings-the-banshees-in-mass-effect-3-thi/#comments We have two problems with this weekend's special multiplayer event for Mass Effect 3. First, players have to cope with an abundance of Banshees, the game's most hated villain that doesn't have the last name "Shields." The individual goal this weekend is to earn at least 20,000 points from killing Banshees, netting players a Commendation Pack.

Next, the name of the mission is Operation: Heartbreaker, but there is no Shawn Michaels in sight to superkick said Banshees in the mouth. Our Commander Shepard refers to himself as the "Heart Break Kid," but it's just not the same.

JoystiqOperation: Heartbreaker brings the Banshees in Mass Effect 3 this weekend originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 16 Feb 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWareHBKmass-effect-3microsoftmultiplayer-weekendoperation-heartbreakerpcplaystationps3xboxSat, 16 Feb 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BioWare doctors to receive GDCA Lifetime Achievement award]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/12/bioware-doctors-to-receive-gdca-lifetime-achievement-award/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/12/bioware-doctors-to-receive-gdca-lifetime-achievement-award/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/12/bioware-doctors-to-receive-gdca-lifetime-achievement-award/#comments The Game Developers Conference announced BioWare co-founders Drs. Ray Muzyka and Greg Zeschuk as the winners of this year's Lifetime Achievement Award. At the GDCAs on March 27, the doctors are to be honored with one of the industry's most prestigious prizes, won previously by such luminaries as Shigeru Miyamoto, Will Wright, and Hideo Kojima.

"The BioWare doctors are truly a unique breed," said Meggan Scavio, General Manager of GDC events. "Not only have they created some of the most emotionally-engaging and beloved games ever made, they are two of the most passionate, engaging, just all-around nice guys anyone could be fortunate enough to meet... There's no denying the deep footprint Ray and Greg have made, and how much their dedication and leadership will be missed in our industry."

18 years ago, the two recently graduated Canadian doctors, along with Augustine Yip, forged a studio that went on to shape Western role-playing games for nearly two decades. Under their leadership, BioWare transformed from a close-knit studio of dozens into a worldwide force of hundreds. That's largely been down to the consistent quality and popularity of the games they've made, including the likes of Baldur's Gate, Neverwinter Nights, Knights of the Old Republic, Dragon Age, and Mass Effect.

We caught up with Dr. Zeschuk recently to see what beers he'd pair with particular game genres. We're sure he'll have a certain tipple in mind for when he and Dr. Muzyka celebrate their award, and whatever that proves to be, it'll certainly be well deserved.

JoystiqBioWare doctors to receive GDCA Lifetime Achievement award originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Feb 2013 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>awardsbiowaregdc-2013gdca-13greg-zeschuklifetime-achievement-awardray-muzykaTue, 12 Feb 2013 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect 2 Zaeed actor Robin Sachs passes away at 61]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/07/mass-effect-2-zaeed-actor-robin-sachs-passes-away-at-61/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/07/mass-effect-2-zaeed-actor-robin-sachs-passes-away-at-61/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/07/mass-effect-2-zaeed-actor-robin-sachs-passes-away-at-61/#comments Mass Effect 2's Zaeed actor Robin Sachs passes away, age 61Voice actor Robin Sachs has passed away after a long career, playing parts like Ethan Rayne in Buffy The Vampire Slayer and Hedronn on Babylon 5. Bioware has posted a quick note on the company blog remembering Sachs' work on their franchises, including serving as Admiral Saul Karath in Knights of the Old Republic, Lord Pyral Harrowmont in Dragon Age Origins, and perhaps most memorably as vicious bounty hunter Zaeed Massani in Mass Effect 2.

As Bioware says, "our thoughts are with Robin's family and friends during this difficult time." Thanks for the stories, Zaeed.

JoystiqMass Effect 2 Zaeed actor Robin Sachs passes away at 61 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Feb 2013 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowaremass-effectmass-effect-3microsoftpassedplaystationps3riprobin-sachsxboxzaeed-massaniThu, 07 Feb 2013 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dr. Greg Zeschuk matches genre to gravity with video game beer pairings]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/01/dr-greg-zeschuk-matches-genre-to-gravity-with-video-game-beer-p/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/01/dr-greg-zeschuk-matches-genre-to-gravity-with-video-game-beer-p/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/01/dr-greg-zeschuk-matches-genre-to-gravity-with-video-game-beer-p/#comments Dr Greg Zeschuk matches genre to gravity with video game beer pairingsFor those of us older than our local legal drinking age, playing the right game with the right beer is a pretty difficult combination to beat. Finding the most correct pairing of game and brew, however, can be more difficult than it might seem at first blush.

That's why we've asked BioWare co-founder and artisan beer aficionado Dr. Greg Zeschuk for his advice on the most appropriate beer/genre pairings. Having left the video gaming industry last September after 20 years at the helm of such games as Mass Effect and Dragon Age: Origins, Zeschuk has since dedicated his time to telling the story of America's flourishing craft beer scene, and the passionate people that make it what it is.

The result of his efforts, a documentary webseries called The Beer Diaries, premiered its first episode at Austin's Alamo Drafthouse earlier this week. We caught up with Dr. Zeschuk that morning to talk about, among other things, pairing beer with games.

Continue reading Dr. Greg Zeschuk matches genre to gravity with video game beer pairings

JoystiqDr. Greg Zeschuk matches genre to gravity with video game beer pairings originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Feb 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beerbeer-pairingsbiowarecraft-beergreg-zeschukmicrobrewmicrobreweriesthe-beer-diariesFri, 01 Feb 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BioWare producers tease potential Mass Effect 3 DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/28/bioware-producers-tease-potential-mass-effect-3-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/28/bioware-producers-tease-potential-mass-effect-3-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/28/bioware-producers-tease-potential-mass-effect-3-dlc/#comments BioWare's Casey Hudson, Mike Gamble tease potential Mass Effect 3 DLCLast December, BioWare Edmonton confirmed that more DLC is in the works for Mass Effect 3. Today series executive producer Casey Hudson and producer Michael Gamble both teased screens, with no information beyond that.

Above you can see what looks to be the Silversun Strip, a den of future iniquity with a casino and presumably a lot of dancing Asari - we've been to enough neo night clubs to know how things work. Past the break, you can see a towering Krogan warrior wielding an equally hulking mace. We're not sure if the guy is trying to kill ghosts or cockroaches but we wish him godspeed all the same.

Continue reading BioWare producers tease potential Mass Effect 3 DLC

JoystiqBioWare producers tease potential Mass Effect 3 DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Jan 2013 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebioware-edmontondlceamass-effectmass-effect-3microsoftpcplaystationps3xboxMon, 28 Jan 2013 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect 3's 'Operation: Ballistic' weekend goes for the gold]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/26/mass-effect-3s-operation-ballistic-weekend-goes-for-the-gold/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/26/mass-effect-3s-operation-ballistic-weekend-goes-for-the-gold/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/26/mass-effect-3s-operation-ballistic-weekend-goes-for-the-gold/#comments By now, we are surely all familiar with how this whole Mass Effect 3 multiplayer weekend thing is supposed to work: "Hey N7 Marines, something about the state of the galaxy, something about the Reapers/Geth/Cerberus, perfunctory lore justification, etc, go kill stuff and we'll give you stuff."

It's a good system, so why mess with it? This weekend's Operation: Ballistic challenge charges individual soldiers with earning a gold weapon medal for assault rifles, heavy pistols, shotguns, sniper rifles, or submachine guns. As per usual, the reward for successfully completing the task set before you is one brand-spankin'-new Commendation Pack.

JoystiqMass Effect 3's 'Operation: Ballistic' weekend goes for the gold originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 26 Jan 2013 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareEAelectronic-artsmass-effect-3microsoftmultiplayer-weekendoperation-ballisticpcplaystationps3weekend-eventxboxSat, 26 Jan 2013 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq Top 10 of 2012: Mass Effect 3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/01/joystiq-top-10-of-2012-mass-effect-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/01/joystiq-top-10-of-2012-mass-effect-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/01/joystiq-top-10-of-2012-mass-effect-3/#comments Just two years ago, Joystiq awarded the top spot in its Game of the Year list to Mass Effect 2. In borrowing from our description of that game, we could equally incite "the rather whimsical notion that a fictional world has some sort of permanence" when talking about Mass Effect 3. The gravity of every decision in the series is intended to elicit a feeling of dire consequence. Did you lose your favorite squad member in the second game? Factors like that are expected to play a role in the final chapter of your adventure.

For some, this third game began to fall apart at the seams for that very reason: we've come to expect that as the most important human in the galaxy, our decisions will leave a permanent imprint on the universe. Commander Shepard is expected to be the seemingly unstoppable hero that defies the odds and ultimately comes out the victor. That's hardly a fault of players, as those who have stuck around since the beginning should remember a rugged Shepard strutting out from the debris at the Citadel with a confident smirk at the end of the first game.

Gallery: Mass Effect 3 (1/4/12)

Continue reading Joystiq Top 10 of 2012: Mass Effect 3

JoystiqJoystiq Top 10 of 2012: Mass Effect 3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Jan 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWareEAGOTY-2012Joystiq-Best-of-2012kinectmass-effect-3microsoftnintendopcplaystationps3wii-uxboxTue, 01 Jan 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Operation: Prophecy burns up Mass Effect 3 multiplayer this weekend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/21/operation-prophecy-burns-up-mass-effect-3-multiplayer-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/21/operation-prophecy-burns-up-mass-effect-3-multiplayer-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/21/operation-prophecy-burns-up-mass-effect-3-multiplayer-this-week/#comments Operation Prophecy burns up Mass Effect 3 multiplayer this weekendSo, okay, the Earth didn't collide with a secret planet this morning, nor did civilization wake up with enhanced psychic abilities and/or a greater understanding of its fellow man. We're just as disappointed as you are.

The alternate version of Earth contained within Mass Effect 3's multiplayer is still very much in danger, however, and shooting space bugs to protect it is more important than ever. Between now and December 23, successful extraction from each Earth map (Rio, Vancouver and London), coupled with 100,000 cumulative points scored through the destruction of Reapers, will earn players a Commendation Pack and a special "Hero of the Last Days" banner.

JoystiqOperation: Prophecy burns up Mass Effect 3 multiplayer this weekend originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Dec 2012 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeaelectronic-artsmass-effect-3mass-effect-weekendmicrosoftmultiplayeroperation-prophecypcplaystationps3weekend-eventxboxFri, 21 Dec 2012 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Next Mass Effect gets a rough launch window of 2014 - 2015 [Update: Or not]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/12/next-mass-effect-gets-a-rough-launch-window-through-2015/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/12/next-mass-effect-gets-a-rough-launch-window-through-2015/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/12/next-mass-effect-gets-a-rough-launch-window-through-2015/#comments Next Mass Effect gets a rough launch window through 2015Update: Gamer Syndrome, the source of this interview, has removed its own story and provided the following statement: "This interview has been removed. The information provided previously by the author of this post was deemed to be obtained from an inaccurate source and NOT an official Bioware or EA interview response. We apologize for the inconvinience."

Original story: The next Mass Effect game, in development at BioWare Montreal, has a tentative launch window of late 2014 to mid-2015, according to Mass Effect 3 producer Mike Gamble. Speaking to Gamer Syndrome, Gamble provided "rough idea on a release window" with the following estimate:

"Late 2014 to mid-2015. I honestly can't tell you an exact because full development on the game started a month or two ago."

In September BioWare outed a new Mass Effect game from series executive producer Casey Hudson, and in November we learned it would run on Frostbite, from BioWare Montreal rather than Edmonton, which handled the previous iterations.

"While I can't comment on why it changed studios, fans can expect a similar style of choices and action that they've come to know in Mass Effect," Gamble said. "Casey Hudson is very much involved in the new Mass Effect game, as well as many from Edmonton. BioWare Montreal is a great studio and they did fantastic with the multiplayer for Mass Effect 3, so fans should know the series is in good hands.

"The game isn't far along in development so I can't comment on specifics because they isn't any yet. Frostbite 2 is a really good game engine that we are also using on Dragon Age 3. As far as release date, there's nothing to be announced yet. You'll hear more about the new Mass Effect game in 2013."

JoystiqNext Mass Effect gets a rough launch window of 2014 - 2015 [Update: Or not] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Dec 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWarebioware-edmontonbioware-montrealmass-effectmicrosoftnintendopcplaystationps3wii-uxboxWed, 12 Dec 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Deja Review: Baldur's Gate - Enhanced Edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/11/deja-review-baldurs-gate-enhanced-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/11/deja-review-baldurs-gate-enhanced-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/11/deja-review-baldurs-gate-enhanced-edition/#commentsThis is a Deja Review: A quick look at the new features and relative agelessness of a remade, revived or re-released game.
Deja Review Baldur's Gate Enhanced Edition
Baldur's Gate: Enhanced Edition isn't the first Overhaul Games re-release to grace this column. That accolade belongs to MDK2 HD. As the name suggests, the 2000 BioWare game underwent a visual facelift in the care of the appropriately named Overhaul.

Despite Baldur's Gate being even older than MDK2, and Overhaul likely doing even more work underneath its hood, the developer's name doesn't sit as right with Enhanced Edition. An overhaul implies, at least to me, the taking apart of something, messing around with its innards until it looks and feels like something very new. That's not what this is.

BG:EE's tune-ups, additions, and even its graphical tweaks aren't there to dazzle, but simply to enhance. If Baldur's Gate is the seminal face of BioWare's RPG beginnings, then Enhanced Edition is its graceful make-up, and Overhaul the doting stylist straining to make sure it all blends in. This delicate approach is admirable, but en vogue it definitely ain't.

Gallery: Baldur's Gate: Enhanced Edition

Continue reading Deja Review: Baldur's Gate - Enhanced Edition

JoystiqDeja Review: Baldur's Gate - Enhanced Edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Dec 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidbaldurs-gate-enhanced-editionbeamdogbiowaredeja-reviewiosipadmacmobileoverhaul-gamespcTue, 11 Dec 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Operation: Onslaught overtakes Mass Effect 3 multiplayer this weekend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/06/operation-onslaught-overtakes-mass-effect-3-multiplayer-this-we/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/06/operation-onslaught-overtakes-mass-effect-3-multiplayer-this-we/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/06/operation-onslaught-overtakes-mass-effect-3-multiplayer-this-we/#comments BioWare's new breed of non-squad oriented multiplayer challenges for Mass Effect 3 continues this weekend, when "Operation: Onslaught" is put into effect. As the contrived excuse story goes, diminished Alliance industrial capabilities have resulted in a shortage of "specialized" weapons in the field, and it's up to the N7 Marines to reclaim factories and other industrial complexes so production can begin again.

Sounds exciting, right? Well it would be, if this weekend's event actually had anything to do with that. In actuality, ME3's multiplayer will be business as usual, save for the fact that individual soldiers can earn a Commendation Pack by dealing 75,000 accumulated points of damage with an assault rifle. There are no map or difficulty level requirements, nor is successful extraction needed for the points to be valid.

JoystiqOperation: Onslaught overtakes Mass Effect 3 multiplayer this weekend originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Dec 2012 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareEAElectronic-Artsmass-effect-3microsoftmultiplayerpcplaystationps3xboxThu, 06 Dec 2012 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[BioWare was working on a spy game, 'Agent,' in 2009]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/06/bioware-was-working-on-a-spy-game-agent-in-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/06/bioware-was-working-on-a-spy-game-agent-in-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/06/bioware-was-working-on-a-spy-game-agent-in-2009/#comments BioWare was working on a spy game, 'Agent,' in 2009Way back in the olden days of 2009, BioWare co-founder Trent Oster started work on a new, PS3-exclusive spy game called Agent, which "failed to survive the recession," Oster told Eurogamer. Agent was a mix of Jason Bourne and 007, Oster said, though we detected a hint of Deus Ex in his description as well:

"The concept was to do the other half of GoldenEye," Oster said. "The idea being that James Bond isn't just a gun that walks around the world and shoots people. He's a suave manipulator, he's a talented martial artist, he's a secret agent. We wanted to cross that 007 with Jason Bourne, where he's been modified in some way; you're not sure what, but he's definitely deadly.

"We really wanted to push the acting side, the digital acting. We really wanted to be very high drama, very intense scenes. I always think of the scene in the second Bourne movie where Jason Bourne's choking the guy out with a book and he's right in his face and it's this very intense moment. That was one of the key things we wanted to carry off."

No, Agent didn't have anything to do with the PS3-exclusive game that Rockstar announced in 2009, also dubbed Agent. EA "didn't believe in the concept" for BioWare's game and Agent was sent off on a mission from which it'd never return: counting all the grains of sand on a windy beach. Or just the recycle bin.

JoystiqBioWare was working on a spy game, 'Agent,' in 2009 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Dec 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>007agentBioWarecanceledGoldenEyeJason-Bourneplaystationps3Trent-OsterThu, 06 Dec 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[More Mass Effect 3 DLC from almost 'every' BioWare Edmonton writer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/05/more-mass-effect-3-dlc-from-almost-every-bioware-edmonton-writ/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/05/more-mass-effect-3-dlc-from-almost-every-bioware-edmonton-writ/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/05/more-mass-effect-3-dlc-from-almost-every-bioware-edmonton-writ/#comments More Mass Effect 3 DLC from almost 'every' BioWare Edmonton writerMass Effect series developer BioWare Edmonton is working on a new piece Mass Effect 3 DLC, and it's "all hands on deck," level designer Jos Hendriks said on the BioWare forums.

"It's all hands on deck for this one. Pretty much every ME3 DLC writer here in Edmonton is involved (which would include both Patrick Weekes AND John Dombrow)," Hendriks wrote. Other writers included Jay Watamaniuk and Cathleen Rootsaert. Additionally, composer Sam Hulick tweeted that he's working on "unannounced Mass Effect 3 DLC."

"Tossing in piano and muted strings for this one particular piece. High potential for tears. #ME3DLC," Hulick tweeted.

Twitter previously outed Seth Green and Raphael Sbarge, voices of Joker and Kaidan Alenkowere, as working on something for Mass Effect 3. Neither appeared in Omega, the DLC that hit last week.

JoystiqMore Mass Effect 3 DLC from almost 'every' BioWare Edmonton writer originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Dec 2012 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWarebioware-edmontonDLCmass-effect-3microsoftnintendopcplaystationps3wii-uxboxWed, 05 Dec 2012 20:15:00 EST<![CDATA[PSN Tuesday: Mass Effect, Uncharted: Fight for Fortune, Ni no Kuni demo]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/04/psn-tuesday-mass-effect-uncharted-fight-for-fortune-ni-no-ku/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/04/psn-tuesday-mass-effect-uncharted-fight-for-fortune-ni-no-ku/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/04/psn-tuesday-mass-effect-uncharted-fight-for-fortune-ni-no-ku/#comments This week marks the debut of the original Mass Effect on the PS3, available as either a standalone purchase of $15 through PSN or as part of the Mass Effect Trilogy package. If free is more your speed, you can grab demos for Ni no Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch, Guardians of Middle Earth and LBP Karting.

On the PS Vita, treasure hunting transitions to trading cards in Uncharted: Fight for Fortune. PS Plus members can snag a free copy of BioShock 2 and enjoy discounts on Puddle, Rockstar Games Collection 1 and more. For the full list of this week's content, hit up the PlayStation Blog through the source link below.

JoystiqPSN Tuesday: Mass Effect, Uncharted: Fight for Fortune, Ni no Kuni demo originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 Dec 2012 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowaremass-effectmass-effect-trilogyni-no-kuniplaystationplaystation-networkplaystation-plusplaystation-vitaps-plusps3psnpsn-tuesdaypspsonyuncharted-fight-for-fortunevitaTue, 04 Dec 2012 20:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect 3 initiates Operation: Detonator this weekend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/29/mass-effect-3-initiates-operation-detonator-this-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/29/mass-effect-3-initiates-operation-detonator-this-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/29/mass-effect-3-initiates-operation-detonator-this-weekend/#comments Mass Effect 3 initiates Operation Detonator this weekendCommander Shepard is relaxing on a beach somewhere with a Mai Tai and a copy of I Am Not Spock, but you poor saps are still out in the deep recesses of space, fighting the good fight against gross bugs and robots. Someday, dear marines. Someday.

Until the lot of you are finally loosed from the perpetual bondage of your galactic servitude, try and get some better equipment! This week's Mass Effect 3 multiplayer event is "Operation: Detonator," which tasks individual marines with earning 20,000 Biotic Explosion Points during a match, regardless of map or difficulty setting. Explosions must kill an enemy for the points to be registered, however successful extraction from the mission is not required.

JoystiqMass Effect 3 initiates Operation: Detonator this weekend originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Nov 2012 23:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeaelectronic-artsmass-effect-3ME3microsoftmultiplayern7-bounty-weekendpcplaystationps3xboxThu, 29 Nov 2012 23:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Mirror's Edge, Mass Effect limited edition art prints for sale now]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/29/mirrors-edge-mass-effect-limited-edition-art-prints-for-sale-n/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/29/mirrors-edge-mass-effect-limited-edition-art-prints-for-sale-n/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/29/mirrors-edge-mass-effect-limited-edition-art-prints-for-sale-n/#comments Mirror's Edge and Mass Effect feature in limited edition digital art collectionIn the art world, it's all about ME - Mass Effect and Mirror's Edge, that is. DICE and BioWare are selling a few museum-grade, limited edition prints via art dealership Cook & Becker, available now.

There are 50 copies of each print from Mirror's Edge and the Mass Effect series, though Mirror's Edge offers "large" editions of four prints, limited to 18 each. Every print, large or standard, is hand-numbered and comes with a certificate of authenticity.

The large Mirror's Edge prints run, in inches, from 30 x 20 to 30 x 48, and cost $500 to $750. Standard prints of Mirror's Edge and Mass Effect scenes aren't much smaller and run $235 to $325, except for Mass Effect's The Team, which is $2,500, at 32 inches by 70 inches.

Check out the Mirror's Edge and Mass Effect prints on Cook & Becker for all your holiday shopping and/or selfish needs.

JoystiqMirror's Edge, Mass Effect limited edition art prints for sale now originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Nov 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artart-printsBioWarecook-and-beckerDICELimited-Editionmicrosoftpcplaystationprintsps3xboxThu, 29 Nov 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect 3 Special Edition review: Mapping the galaxy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/27/mass-effect-3-wii-u-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/27/mass-effect-3-wii-u-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/27/mass-effect-3-wii-u-review/#comments For Wii U re-releases of existing games, we're republishing our original reviews with added evaluation of the new material. Keep track of all of Joystiq's Wii U launch coverage on the Wii U hub page!

The Wii U version of Mass Effect 3, saddled with the puzzling subtitle "Special Edition," doesn't introduce much in the way of console exclusive features. Of course, even without the handful of extra features, you still have one of the year's best games, though the conclusion to an epic trilogy may make an odd starting point for Wii U owners.

Helping to ease new players into the series is an interactive comic prelude, "Mass Effect Genesis 2." This is an extended version of the "Mass Effect Genesis" comic available on the console and PC versions of Mass Effect 2. It covers the events of the first two Mass Effect games, allowing players to make many of Commander Shepard's key choices along the way. The comic itself is pretty substantial, lasting a bit longer than twenty minutes.

Certain choices may confuse new players, notably whether to make Udina or Anderson Earth's first councilor at the end of the original Mass Effect. Regardless of the initial choice, the events of Mass Effect 2 conspire to make Udina councilor by the beginning of Mass Effect 3, but those events aren't covered in the comic. As such, Wii U players may find it strange that Udina is suddenly councilor after making the opposite choice in the prelude. Still, the comic does an adequate job of catching up new players.

Gallery: Mass Effect 3 (Wii U)

Continue reading Mass Effect 3 Special Edition review: Mapping the galaxy

JoystiqMass Effect 3 Special Edition review: Mapping the galaxy originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 Nov 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeamass-effect-3nintendostraight-rightwii-uTue, 27 Nov 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect 3 Omega DLC not available for Wii U at launch]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/17/mass-effect-3-omega-dlc-not-available-for-wii-u-at-launch/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/17/mass-effect-3-omega-dlc-not-available-for-wii-u-at-launch/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/17/mass-effect-3-omega-dlc-not-available-for-wii-u-at-launch/#comments The Omega DLC for Mass Effect 3 will not be available for Wii U when it launches November 27, according to BioWare's official Mass Effect Twitter account. The DLC will release on PS3 and Xbox 360 for $15.

When asked about future DLC offerings for Wii U, BioWare's reply was "never say never," which either hints at the possibility of DLC such as Omega launching on Wii U in the future, or the Mass Effect team was listening to Justin Bieber at the time.

JoystiqMass Effect 3 Omega DLC not available for Wii U at launch originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 17 Nov 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWareDLCEAmass-effect-3mass-effect-3-omeganintendoomegawii-uSat, 17 Nov 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[BioWare responds to Black Ops 2 mix-up with Mass Effect Trilogy giveaway]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/14/bioware-responds-to-black-ops-2-mix-up-with-mass-effect-trilogy/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/14/bioware-responds-to-black-ops-2-mix-up-with-mass-effect-trilogy/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/14/bioware-responds-to-black-ops-2-mix-up-with-mass-effect-trilogy/#comments BioWare responds to Black Ops 2 mixup with Mass Effect Trilogy giveawayIn response to reports of some PC copies of Black Ops 2 having a second disc for Mass Effect 2, Bioware is giving away Mass Effect Trilogy to those affected. As detailed on its blog, the Mass Effect developer will send free PC codes for the compendium to the first 50 people to send the developer a photo of the error.

It's a cheeky yet inspired response from BioWare, the developer calling the mix-up an "omen" it had to take heed of. "If the universe thinks that you should be playing Mass Effect right now," the post reads, "who are we to argue?"

Meanwhile, an Activision rep addressed complaints on the official Black Ops 2 forum, saying teams are trying to work out how the mix-up occurred. The post recommends using a product key provided in the case to activate the game on Steam.

JoystiqBioWare responds to Black Ops 2 mix-up with Mass Effect Trilogy giveaway originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Nov 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionactivision-blizzardbiowarecall-of-duty-black-ops-2mass-effect-2mass-effect-trilogypcWed, 14 Nov 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Some Black Ops 2 retail discs contain Mass Effect 2 info]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/13/report-some-black-ops-2-retail-discs-contain-mass-effect-2-info/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/13/report-some-black-ops-2-retail-discs-contain-mass-effect-2-info/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/13/report-some-black-ops-2-retail-discs-contain-mass-effect-2-info/#comments Report Some Black Ops 2 retail discs contain Mass Effect 2 infoPlayers who bought retail PC copies of Black Ops 2 - some of the same people who waited in line for hours on a cold November night during the midnight launch - popped in the second installation disc to find that it's for Mass Effect 2. Reports on Steam, Reddit, 4chan and the Black Ops 2 forums describe the same problem, and the video below shows it in action (along with some NSFW language).

This prevents these players from installing Black Ops 2 with the discs, but each retail copy comes with a Steam key and the entire game can be installed digitally. It will take a while, but it is at least, eventually, playable; this process largely negates the entire "waiting in line for a retail version" thing, though.

We've contacted Activision for more information.

Continue reading Report: Some Black Ops 2 retail discs contain Mass Effect 2 info

JoystiqReport: Some Black Ops 2 retail discs contain Mass Effect 2 info originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Nov 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActivisionBioWareblack-ops-2call-of-duty-black-ops-2EAmass-effect-2pcretailTreyarchTue, 13 Nov 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[BioWare Montreal's Mass Effect game runs on Frostbite]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/12/bioware-montreals-mass-effect-game-runs-on-frostbite-may-go-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/12/bioware-montreals-mass-effect-game-runs-on-frostbite-may-go-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/12/bioware-montreals-mass-effect-game-runs-on-frostbite-may-go-in/#comments BioWare Montreal was largely responsible for multiplayer in Mass Effect 3, with some additional input on the single-player side like the upcoming Omega DLC, but it looks like the studio is ready to undertake its own game in the series. In fact, it already has - the next Mass Effect is already in the works at BioWare Montreal.

"To ensure a proper and effective transition, we'll continue to be supported by the Edmonton studio through the game's development, working with and learning from them on some critical initiatives," BioWare Montreal studio director Yanick Roy says in a blog post. Casey Hudson will still serve as executive producer from BioWare Edmonton, but the project director will be firmly entrenched in Montreal. Roy can't go into specifics on the new game, but he says it will be powered by Frostbite, which has been "enhanced by many of the systems that the Dragon Age III team has already spent a lot of time building."

Roy also adds the team is looking to explore new gameplay avenues and story ideas - while paying respect to the heritage the original trilogy has built, it seems like the team at Montreal is looking for new directions to take the series in. "You can still expect the pillars the franchise is known for to be fully intact though, including diverse alien races, a huge galaxy to explore, and of course rich, cinematic storytelling," Roy adds.

JoystiqBioWare Montreal's Mass Effect game runs on Frostbite originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Nov 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebioware-edmontonbioware-montrealcasey-hudsoneamass-effectyanick-royMon, 12 Nov 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect celebrates N7 day with multiplayer event and discounts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/07/bioware-celebrates-november-7-as-n7-day-with-multiplayer-event-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/07/bioware-celebrates-november-7-as-n7-day-with-multiplayer-event-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/07/bioware-celebrates-november-7-as-n7-day-with-multiplayer-event-a/#comments BioWare celebrates N7 day with multiplayer event and discountsThe video game community has a growing number of annual holidays lately, including the Steam Summer Sale, Bungie Day, and the annual Desert Bus drive. Now you can add one more note to that calendar, as BioWare is declaring November 7 (today) as "N7 Day," an annual chance to celebrate everything Mass Effect. In addition to yet another multiplayer challenge (with a special banner up for grabs), there are some new behind-the-scenes presentations on the official website and big discounts on all of the N7 gear in the BioWare store.

This month marks the fifth anniversary of the original Mass Effect. EA and BioWare are promoting the Mass Effect Trilogy release, which combines all three games and hit stores earlier this week (the PS3 version arrives early next month). Oh, and given how surprised we are that it's been five years since the first Mass Effect game released, N7 Day apparently also celebrates just how super old we feel right now.

JoystiqMass Effect celebrates N7 day with multiplayer event and discounts originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Nov 2012 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarybiowareeventmass-effectmass-effect-trilogymicrosoftn7-daypcplaystationps3xboxWed, 07 Nov 2012 19:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect 3 Wii U launches November 18]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/05/mass-effect-3-wii-u-launches-november-18/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/05/mass-effect-3-wii-u-launches-november-18/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/05/mass-effect-3-wii-u-launches-november-18/#comments ME3 Wii U special edition includes interactive stories of ME 1, 2, is launch title

Mass Effect 3 will be available for purchase alongside the Wii U when it launches on November 18 in North America, BioWare confirms today. Mass Effect 3 will also be a launch title in Europe on November 30 and in Japan on December 5.

Mass Effect 3 on Wii U includes the game's Extended Cut and From Ashes DLC, along with an updated version of the Genesis comics from Darkhorse. According to BioWare external producer Melanie Faulknor, the Wii U version also packs the multiplayer add-ons Rebellion, Resurgence, and Earth.

The Genesis comic was first introduced in Mass Effect 2 on PS3, giving players a chance to mold the events from the first game, which was not available on the platform. In the Wii U update, players will be able to craft their stories from the first two Mass Effect games and bring those decisions into Mass Effect 3.

The Omega DLC slated for later this month wasn't addressed, so we imagine Wii U players will have to download the DLC just like everyone else. No more special treatment!

JoystiqMass Effect 3 Wii U launches November 18 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Nov 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeamass-effect-3nintendorelease-datestraight-rightwii-uMon, 05 Nov 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect Trilogy pushed to Dec. 4 on PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/01/mass-effect-trilogy-pushed-to-dec-4-on-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/01/mass-effect-trilogy-pushed-to-dec-4-on-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/01/mass-effect-trilogy-pushed-to-dec-4-on-ps3/#comments

Mass Effect Trilogy is coming to the PS3 on December 4 in North America and December 7 in Europe, just in time for the Hanar holiday festivities. Hanars make the best sugar cookies.

The new release bundles all three Mass Effect games in one sleek black N7 box. The original Mass Effect, which is playable on Sony's system for the first time, will also be available for download through PSN.

BioWare already detailed the DLC available on each platform: The "Bring Down the Sky" mission will be included with Mass Effect on the PS3, whether downloaded through PSN or within the Mass Effect Trilogy. The PC version of Mass Effect will include Bring Down the Sky and Pinnacle Station, while the Xbox 360 version will be just as it originally was when it launched back in 2007, sans that DLC and sky fully intact.

PS3, Xbox 360 and PC all get Cerberus Network with Mass Effect 2; however, on the PS3, it'll also include Lair of the Shadow Broker, Kasumi and Overlord. Finally, Mass Effect 3 will include Cerberus Network across all platforms, but not the most recent expansion, "Leviathan."

Mass Effect Trilogy will be available next week on the PC and Xbox 360 - November 6 in the US and November 9 in Europe.

Gallery: Mass Effect Trilogy

JoystiqMass Effect Trilogy pushed to Dec. 4 on PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 01 Nov 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowaremass-effectmass-effect-2mass-effect-3mass-effect-trilogyplaystationps3psnThu, 01 Nov 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect 3 goes trick-or-treating with a Halloween Challenge]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/31/mass-effect-3-goes-trick-or-treating-with-a-halloween-challenge/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/31/mass-effect-3-goes-trick-or-treating-with-a-halloween-challenge/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/31/mass-effect-3-goes-trick-or-treating-with-a-halloween-challenge/#comments Mass Effect 3 Halloween challenge
BioWare is celebrating Halloween with a special trick and treat-inspired multiplayer challenge in Mass Effect 3. Beginning today and running through November 5, there are three new tasks for players to take on to earn a special holiday reward: Players need to run five extractions on the Firebase Ghost map (or its Hazard version), earn 7500 points against zombies (also known as husks or abominations in the Mass Effect parlance) and earn 10,000 points against monsters (which includes brutes, scions, praetorians, and banshees). Completing the tasks on any difficulty will earn players a Halloween Challenge Banner.

What's too bad is that you won't get the Halloween-themed characters teased above to join your gang. Bioware doesn't say, but we're pretty sure they're crew members for some other Mass Effect 3 team, maybe helmed by one Commander SCARE-perd of the USS Norman-DIE! Boooooo! [Ed. Note: You're fired.]

JoystiqMass Effect 3 goes trick-or-treating with a Halloween Challenge originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 31 Oct 2012 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementbannerbiowarechallengecommander-shepherdearningfunhalloweenholidaymass-effectmass-effect-3microsoftplaystationps3xboxWed, 31 Oct 2012 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect: Paragon Lost loses a few Alliance soldiers in sample footage]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/27/mass-effect-paragon-lost-loses-a-few-alliance-soldiers-in-sampl/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/27/mass-effect-paragon-lost-loses-a-few-alliance-soldiers-in-sampl/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/27/mass-effect-paragon-lost-loses-a-few-alliance-soldiers-in-sampl/#comments
Today you can sample nine minutes from the Mass Effect 3 prequel anime, Mass Effect: Paragon Lost. The video above shows a panicked crew of Alliance soldiers looking to Vega for inspiration during a nasty shootout with the Blood Pack.

Mass Effect: Paragon Lost takes place well before the events of Mass Effect 3, and focuses on James Vega's career as an Alliance Marine going up against The Collectors. Freddie Prinze Jr. reprises his role as James Vega throughout the Production I.G.-created animated film. It's out on December 28.

JoystiqMass Effect: Paragon Lost loses a few Alliance soldiers in sample footage originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 27 Oct 2012 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeafreddie-prinze-jrjames-vegamass-effect-3mass-effect-paragon-lostmicrosoftparagon-lostpcplaystationps3xboxSat, 27 Oct 2012 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect film script in the hands of 'Rescue Me' assistant editor]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/25/mass-effect-film-script-in-the-hands-of-rescue-me-assistant-ed/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/25/mass-effect-film-script-in-the-hands-of-rescue-me-assistant-ed/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/25/mass-effect-film-script-in-the-hands-of-rescue-me-assistant-ed/#comments Yes, not only is the Mass Effect movie still in the works, but its pre-production phase has actually progressed to Standard Hollywood Adaptation Step 43, Subsection A, where a new writer is attached to the project without any mention of the original talent.

In this case, the movie is now being written by Morgan Davis Foehl, whose tenure in the motion picture industry is that of an assistant editor for Adam Sandler vehicles such as Click and I Now Pronounce You Chuck & Larry, as well as the TV drama Rescue Me.

The original writer attached to the project, Mark Protosevich, had already done some work on the script, according to Variety. Protosevich's history includes the screenplays for I Am Legend and Poseidon, in addition to writer and story credits on The Cell and Thor, respectively. Whether Foehl's job is to rewrite the existing script or begin anew is uncertain.

This is a movie adaptation of a gaming franchise, however, so this is not likely to be last round of musical chairs the production staff will play. After all, the project hasn't even named a director yet, let alone lost one and replaced it several times - as outlined in the Standard Hollywood Adaptation Guidebook.

JoystiqMass Effect film script in the hands of 'Rescue Me' assistant editor originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Oct 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareEAElectronic-Artslegendary-picturesmass-effectmass-effect-moviemovieThu, 25 Oct 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Here's some pretty Dragon Age 3 concept art]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/21/heres-some-pretty-dragon-age-3-concept-art/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/21/heres-some-pretty-dragon-age-3-concept-art/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/21/heres-some-pretty-dragon-age-3-concept-art/#comments Here's some pretty Dragon Age 3 concept artWhen BioWare revealed a few details about Dragon Age 3: Inquisition at the Edmonton Expo yesterday, it also showed off concept art to the panel attendees.

The artwork has since been posted to the Bioware blog without all those pesky heads in front of it (though we're sure they can be edited back in upon request). Dragon Age 3 is planned to launch in late 2013.

Gallery: Dragon Age 3: Inquisition (Concept Art)

JoystiqHere's some pretty Dragon Age 3 concept art originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 21 Oct 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWareconcept-artDragon-Agedragon-age-3EAea-gamesmicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxSun, 21 Oct 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[More Dragon Age 3 details surface]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/20/more-dragon-age-3-details-surface/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/20/more-dragon-age-3-details-surface/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/20/more-dragon-age-3-details-surface/#comments A few small details and concept art for Dragon Age 3: Inquisition were revealed during a BioWare panel at the Edmonton Comic and Entertainment Expo today thanks to the live-tweeting work of Cameron Lee, a producer on the game.

Namely, Cinematic Designer John Perry said that "he's had a longer pre-production on Dragon Age 3 than any other BioWare project he's worked on," and that "one level in Dragon Age 3 is as big as all of Dragon Age 2's levels." Creative Director Mike Laidlaw noted that players will be human in the game, and that "customization is going to be bigger than Dragon Age: Origins."

BioWare GM Aaryn Flynn posted a picture to Twitter of the backs of event attendees' heads, which happened to include concept art for the game in the background. As nice as those heads are, we will update when the actual art is available. Dragon Age 3: Inquisition is in development and slated for a late 2013 release.

JoystiqMore Dragon Age 3 details surface originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 20 Oct 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aaryn-flynnBioWareconcept-artda3Dragon-Agedragon-age-3microsoftpcplaystationps3xboxSat, 20 Oct 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii U voice chat sounds pretty complicated]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/18/wii-u-voice-chat-sounds-pretty-complicated/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/18/wii-u-voice-chat-sounds-pretty-complicated/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/18/wii-u-voice-chat-sounds-pretty-complicated/#comments Nintendo is approaching voice chat on Wii U from a very ... odd angle. Select games will support voice chat via third-party, officially licensed headsets plugged into the WiiPad's headphone jack, but voice chat will not be standard across all games or even the system itself. Even though the WiiPad has a built-in microphone, it can't be used for voice chat.

Things get a bit more complicated when you enter the Pro Controller into the mix. The Pro Controller doesn't even have a headphone jack, so for a game like Call of Duty: Black Ops 2, players will need to plug their headset into the WiiPad and set it next to them while they play with the Pro Controller.

So far the only games listed to support in-game voice chat are Assassin's Creed 3, Mass Effect 3 and Black Ops 2. Nintendo has yet to announce voice chat support for any further games, never mind detailed plans of the Wii U's online suite.

JoystiqWii U voice chat sounds pretty complicated originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 18 Oct 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionassassins-creed-3biowarecall-of-duty-black-ops-2eamass-effect-3nintendotreyarchubisoftvoice-chatwii-uThu, 18 Oct 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect 3 adds 'Groundside Weapons' pack DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/16/mass-effect-3-adds-groundside-weapons-pack-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/16/mass-effect-3-adds-groundside-weapons-pack-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/16/mass-effect-3-adds-groundside-weapons-pack-dlc/#comments Mass Effect 3 receives 'Groundside Weapons' packThose who pick up the "Groundside Resistance weapon pack" for Mass Effect 3 can have Commander Shepard play with some new toys. The armory set includes seven new weapons, covering pistols to shotguns, along with a harpoon gun... to hunt elcor? Asked how it felt about being compared to a whale in that last line, our token office elcor responded, "Disappointed: Did you just call me fat?"

The weapon pack costs $1.99 (160 Microsoft points) and is available today on Xbox 360, PS3 and PC. The next big piece of a DLC content for Mass Effect 3 is the Omega mission, available November 27 for $15 (1200 MSP).

JoystiqMass Effect 3 adds 'Groundside Weapons' pack DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 16 Oct 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BiowareDLCEAElectronic-Artsgroundside-weaponsmass-effect-3microsoftpcplaystationps3xboxTue, 16 Oct 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[This Reaper replica statue comes with multiplayer bonuses]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/13/this-reaper-replica-statue-comes-with-multiplayer-bonuses/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/13/this-reaper-replica-statue-comes-with-multiplayer-bonuses/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/13/this-reaper-replica-statue-comes-with-multiplayer-bonuses/#comments This Reaper replica statue comes with multiplayer bonusesDark Horse Comics recently unveiled a 18.5" tall replica of the Reaper Sovereign from the Mass Effect series. The replica is estimated to ship in June 2013 for $350, and can be pre-ordered with a hefty $100 deposit on the BioWare store.

The Reaper statue is in limited production, with fewer than 1,000 being made. It also comes with a code for as-yet-unannounced multiplayer bonuses for the Xbox 360 and PC versions of Mass Effect 3.

JoystiqThis Reaper replica statue comes with multiplayer bonuses originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 13 Oct 2012 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWareEAmass-effectmass-effect-3microsoftpcreaperreplicaSovereignStatuexboxSat, 13 Oct 2012 22:30:00 EST