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[Sid Meier: modern graphics have lowered the barriers of entry to gaming]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/01/sid-meier-modern-graphics-have-lowered-the-barriers-of-entry-to/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/01/sid-meier-modern-graphics-have-lowered-the-barriers-of-entry-to/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/01/sid-meier-modern-graphics-have-lowered-the-barriers-of-entry-to/#comments In this interview with Game Informer, legendary developer Sid Meier says even he has succumbed to the lure of modern graphics. "I used to love to try and challenge the players' imagination," he says, "to show them a few pixels in 16 colors and try and convince them that they're ruling an empire to stand the test of time. But I think today's player is not really willing to make that investment, so we're able to bring the worlds to life in 3D."

But he also believes that beefing up the graphics has brought in a much bigger audience than games could have picked up 20 years ago. "You had to kind of suspend your disbelief and be willing to step into that world," says Meier. "Today we make it a lot easier," and as a result, players who want more than a few pixels on screen can also get their fix.

Meier's currently the creative director of game development at Firaxis, and though he's not participating directly on XCOM it doesn't mean he's not working. Every morning, he says, he comes out of the shower with "about 10 ideas," and is constantly iterating with his team on different prototypes. "Most of them," he says, "just go back into the trash heap." In other words, anyone who wants to make an awesome game should probably go root around in the garbage cans near Sparks Glencoe, Maryland.

JoystiqSid Meier: modern graphics have lowered the barriers of entry to gaming originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Feb 2012 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>civilizationfiraxis-gamesgame-designgraphicsinterviewmarylandpcsid-meierstrategyWed, 01 Feb 2012 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Facebook Civilization game now called 'Civilization World', closed alpha starts Jan. 12]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/06/facebook-civilization-game-now-called-civilization-world-clos/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/06/facebook-civilization-game-now-called-civilization-world-clos/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/06/facebook-civilization-game-now-called-civilization-world-clos/#comments Civilization Network, Take-Two Interactive's first "social network game," will now go by the more global, less techie-sounding Civilization World. The Facebook title is expected sometime in 2011, and a closed alpha test will begin January 12.

Interested parties can apply now at the Civ World site, and they'll receive a confirmation email by January 10. Those who register will also receive a "special item" to display in their throne rooms. No word yet if plebs who are late to the party will be able to pay a couple bucks for that item when the game launches.

In his public address about the name change, Civ emperor Sid Meier also said that Civ World games will have a "well-defined beginning and end" and players will have "both a final goal to work towards, as well as short-term objectives to achieve as they play. The trophies you unlock with your triumphs will carry over from game to game, and you can show them off in your throne room." Okay, we're intrigued about a Facebook game -- time for some self-flagellation.

JoystiqFacebook Civilization game now called 'Civilization World', closed alpha starts Jan. 12 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Jan 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>civilizationcivilization-networkcivilization-worldFacebookmacpcsid-meiersocial-gamestake-twoThu, 06 Jan 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Stardock hires Civ V designer Jon Shafer and fantasy writer Dave Stern]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/04/stardock-hires-civ-v-designer-jon-shafer-and-fantasy-writer-dave/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/04/stardock-hires-civ-v-designer-jon-shafer-and-fantasy-writer-dave/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/04/stardock-hires-civ-v-designer-jon-shafer-and-fantasy-writer-dave/#commentsIt was odd to hear about Jon Shafer leaving Firaxis a couple weeks back, what with him being an avid member of the Civ community and lead designer on the latest iteration, Civilization V -- a game our own Alexander Sliwinski called "a 'friendly' strategy game."

During an interview with our sister site Big Download, Shafer once again stated he'd left Firaxis on good terms and will help Stardock on its newest title, Elemental: War of Magic, as well as an unannounced project he'll be overseeing.

Stardock also announced it has hired acclaimed fantasy author Dave Stern to "oversee creative storytelling and lore implementation in all future projects." Stern, who has penned various Star Trek works and novelizations of the Tomb Raider and Blair Witch Project movies, will get right to work on enriching the world of Elemental: War of Magic, which Stardock CEO Brad Wardell admits was "one of the things we felt was weak."

Specifically, Stern will "head up all further integration of the Elemental: War of Magic lore" in the game, which will see two upcoming expansions where "lore implementation will be essential."

Continue reading Stardock hires Civ V designer Jon Shafer and fantasy writer Dave Stern

JoystiqStardock hires Civ V designer Jon Shafer and fantasy writer Dave Stern originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 Jan 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CivilizationCivilization-5dave-sternelemental-war-of-magicjon-shaferlorepcstardockTue, 04 Jan 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Preview: Elemental: War of Magic]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/23/preview-elemental-war-of-magic/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/23/preview-elemental-war-of-magic/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/23/preview-elemental-war-of-magic/#comments Stardock's Elemental: War of Magic is already extraordinary, smashing genres together that may have been too big on their own in the first place. At its heart, it's a 4X game in the style of Civ or Galactic Civilizations, but it's also a fantasy RPG with a deep and long story, and a tactical battle game. It has a huge singleplayer campaign, a sandbox mode that creates gigantic maps at random, and even a multiplayer mode. It's vast and confusing and intricate, and while there are certain gamers who just won't vibe with all of the numbers and how open the gameplay is, there are others - probably old-school strategy types - who will love it for everything it is.

Stardock's CEO Brad Wardell is one of those for sure -- as he showed me the latest beta of the game earlier this month, his enthusiasm for the game he's built was quite clear. Elemental: War of Magic, like all of Stardock's titles, is as "homespun" as any video game can be, and Wardell's personality and preferences shine through almost all of its (sorry) elements.

Gallery: Elemental: War of Magic

Continue reading Preview: Elemental: War of Magic

JoystiqPreview: Elemental: War of Magic originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Aug 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4xbrad-wardellcivilizationelementalelemental-war-of-magicfantasygenremagicpcstardockstrategyMon, 23 Aug 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization 5 public demo coming in September]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/04/civilization-5-public-demo-coming-in-september-firaxis-promises/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/04/civilization-5-public-demo-coming-in-september-firaxis-promises/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/04/civilization-5-public-demo-coming-in-september-firaxis-promises/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Oh, so you think you're heading off into space for some distant world in September? Nope, you've got more pressing matters here at home. A public demo for Civilization 5 has been confirmed for September, "before the full game is released."

The missive can be found over on the game's official site, which promises more details on the exact nature of the demo and when rowdy road-builders can get their cultivation on, "coming soon." We'll be sure to update you all when we hear something, but in the meanwhile, you can get back to filling the coffers for that special edition you've had your eye on.

JoystiqCivilization 5 public demo coming in September originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Aug 2010 15:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamescivilizationcivilization-5demoFiraxis-Gamespcsid-meiersimulationstrategyWed, 04 Aug 2010 15:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Direct2Drive's Spring Sale: Star Trek Online, Civ 4, Torchlight and more discounted]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/27/direct2drives-spring-sale-star-trek-online-civ-4-torchlight/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/27/direct2drives-spring-sale-star-trek-online-civ-4-torchlight/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/27/direct2drives-spring-sale-star-trek-online-civ-4-torchlight/#comments Once again, downloadable gaming retailer Direct2Drive has chosen to reduce the price of a whole gaggle of its offerings. Encheapened titles as part of the "Spring Sale" include interstellar MMO Star Trek Online ($29.95), Nazi-vanquishing sim The Saboteur ($14.95), mine-raiding RPG Torchlight ($9.95), world-dominating strategy title Civilization 4: Complete Edition ($9.95) and every X-Com game ever made, except for, you know, the new one ($4.95). To see the complete list of discounted games, click past the jump.

Now look, Direct2Drive. You really, really need to chill out with all of these sales. If you keep discounting the prices of your games with such regularity, then people are going to start thinking that these are your normal going rates for these titles. During the off-times when you're not holding a sale, they're going to start thinking that you're just having a temporary ... expensiveization. That can't possibly be good for business.

Continue reading Direct2Drive's Spring Sale: Star Trek Online, Civ 4, Torchlight and more discounted

JoystiqDirect2Drive's Spring Sale: Star Trek Online, Civ 4, Torchlight and more discounted originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 Apr 2010 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-GamesCiv-4CivilizationCivilization-4civilization-ivdealdirect2driveFiraxis-GamessaleSid-Meiers-Civilization-4star-trek-onlineStrategythe-saboteurtorchlightx-comTue, 27 Apr 2010 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sid Meier's life, career and a 48-hour game design contest packed into documentary short]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/14/sid-meier-career-and-48-hour-game-design-contest-documentary/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/14/sid-meier-career-and-48-hour-game-design-contest-documentary/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/14/sid-meier-career-and-48-hour-game-design-contest-documentary/#comments Regardless of whether or not you've played any of Sid Meier's games, or whether or not you find yourself curious as to how he became a gaming luminary, or whether or not you've got 24 minutes to kill -- you've got to watch Motherboard's latest documentary. Its focus is on the history of Meier's game development career, as well as his participation in the 7th Annual Wolverine Soft 48 Hour Game Design Contest held at his Alma Mater, the University of Michigan.

More importantly, this short film contains all the requisite components of a gripping piece of cinema: hardship, confrontation, self-improvement, triumph, and the imbuing of a lingering desire to go back and play all of the Civilization games again. Seriously, go check it out.

JoystiqSid Meier's life, career and a 48-hour game design contest packed into documentary short originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Apr 2010 13:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>48-hour-game-designcivilizationdocumentarygame-designmotherboardsid-meiervideoWed, 14 Apr 2010 13:35:00 EST<![CDATA[iPad Roundup: Here's the stuff that may interest you]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/02/ipad-roundup-heres-the-stuff-that-may-interest-you/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/02/ipad-roundup-heres-the-stuff-that-may-interest-you/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/02/ipad-roundup-heres-the-stuff-that-may-interest-you/#comments With the iPad set to launch April 3, we know a lot of you out there are wondering what types of games and apps there are to look forward to. Well, we reprogrammed the Joystiq bots to scour the iTunes App store for information on updates and new games, culling the data for you all. There's plenty to look forward to, so don't waste time reading this -- head past the break for the goods!

Continue reading iPad Roundup: Here's the stuff that may interest you

JoystiqiPad Roundup: Here's the stuff that may interest you originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Apr 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>10-ton-games-inc2k-gamesactivisionamazon-hidden-expeditionangry-birdsangry-birds-hdapple-ipadasphaltasphalt-5azkend-hdbig-fish-gamesbreak-hdcall-of-dutycall-of-duty-world-at-warcall-of-duty-world-at-war-zombiescastlecraftcharadiumchillingoCivilizationcivilization-revolutioncogscogs-hdCommand-and-Conquercommand-and-conquer-red-alertdoonsdoons-hddungeon-hunterdungeon-hunter-hdeaElectronic-Artsfieldrunnersfiremintfiremint-incflick-bowlingflick-fishingflight-controlflight-control-hdfreeversefroggerfrogger-padgameloftgeometry-warsgluglyder-2imahjongimahjong-hdipadipad-launcjirbokonamilaminar-researcglets-golfmarvelmarvel-comicsmarvel-comics-appmetal-gear-solidmetal-gear-solid-touchminigoreminigore-hdmirrors-edgemodern-combatmodern-combat-sandstormnamconba-hotshotneed-for-speedneed-for-speed-shiftnflnfl-2010nfl-2010-hdngmoconovapac-manpaper-footballpaper-football-hdplants-vs-zombiesplants-vs-zombies-hdpopcappopcap-gamesreal-racingreal-racing-hdreal-soccerreal-soccer-2010-hdsam-and-maxscrabblesecret-exit-ltdsegasneeziessneezies-hdsnowboardingsnowboarding-hdsparkle-hdsubatomicsubatomic-studiossuper-monkey-ballsuper-monkey-ball-2super-monkey-ball-2-sakura-editionteam-17telltale-gamestetristhe-penal-zoneunouno-hdwarpgatewe-rulex-planezen-boundzen-bound-2Fri, 02 Apr 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[April Fools: Civilization V to feature 'Extreme Diplomacy']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/01/april-fools-civilization-v-to-feature-extreme-diplomacy/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/01/april-fools-civilization-v-to-feature-extreme-diplomacy/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/01/april-fools-civilization-v-to-feature-extreme-diplomacy/#comments Firaxis and 2K Games today announced "Extreme Diplomacy," a new feature for Civilization V, the upcoming installment of the tired strategy series. In an attempt to get the masses playing the turn-based snore fest, the series will add a fighting game death match arena: "two world leaders enter" ... "one world leader leaves." The victor is said to gain control of the defeated's empire.

The publisher has also announced an Über Edition of Civ V, which includes an 8-button joystick "to bring the classic fighting arcade game feel to these Extreme Diplomacy battles." Each faction leader will also have a super move, and we've listed the first six moves to be revealed after the break. Finally, Civilization will have some action!

Continue reading April Fools: Civilization V to feature 'Extreme Diplomacy'

JoystiqApril Fools: Civilization V to feature 'Extreme Diplomacy' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 01 Apr 2010 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesapril-foolsapril-fools-2010Civ-4civ-5Civ-IVCivilizationCivilization-4civilization-5Civilization-IVextreme-diplomacyFiraxis-GamesSid-Meiers-Civilization-4Sid-Meiers-Civilization-IVStrategyThu, 01 Apr 2010 11:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Sid Meier talks player psychology and the year of Civilization]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/14/sid-meier-talks-player-psychology-and-the-year-of-civilization/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/14/sid-meier-talks-player-psychology-and-the-year-of-civilization/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/14/sid-meier-talks-player-psychology-and-the-year-of-civilization/#comments The "father of computer gaming" gave the keynote at GDC 2010 this past week, and while we really hoped he would tell us a lot about the upcoming Facebook version of Civilization, it got only the barest of mentions during the hour-plus talk. Instead, Meier shared wisdom with the gathered crowd, talking about the lessons he'd learned in player psychology over his long and storied career in game design. First, he talked about what he called the "Winner's Paradox" -- "if you've played Civilization," he said, "you're an egomaniac," since anyone crazy enough to think that they can actually "build a civ to stand the test of time," as it says on the game box, must be pretty full of themselves. And because of that, Meier says his players always believe that if they don't win for whatever reason, fate or the random number generator or the crappy AI must be out to get them. As a result, his policy has become to let the player win -- the threat of punishment is enough to keep it interesting, but in the end, the player should win the game.

He also talked about the "unholy alliance" between players and developers -- not only is the relationship beneficial for both parties (players offer their money, developers offer their time and talent), but it's also one of "mutually-assured destruction," as players can break contact with (or even just belief in) the game anytime they feel it's not fun any more, and developers can "really mess up the game, too." Everything in the game, said Meier, should be designed with an eye towards this alliance -- the AI should live to serve the player, the graphics and gameplay should engage imagination, and even options screens and load/save settings should be developed with an eye towards preserving the relationship.

Civilization Network was mentioned under a section Meier called "my bad" -- along with the original ideas to make Civ real-time (whoops) and make the tech path random, he said that the CN team had considered letting players give gold to each other on Facebook, but during playtesting, found that players never actually did. He did say that the game is deep into testing currently, and that it will allow co-op, singleplayer, and competitive gameplay, and that it will be interesting whether players play for just "a little time a day" or more than that. At the end of the talk, in reply to a question about where he saw gaming going, Meier declared that "this is the year of Civilization!" With CN coming soon and Civ V due out this fall, we can't wait to send our Settlers out into the world.

JoystiqSid Meier talks player psychology and the year of Civilization originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 14 Mar 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aiciv-vCivilizationcivilization-5civilization-networkcrappygdcgdc-2010keynotesid-meiersid-meiers-civilizationunholy-alliancewinners-paradoxSun, 14 Mar 2010 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Impressions: Civilization V or 'I Wanna Hex You Up']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/10/impressions-civilization-v-or-i-wanna-hex-you-up/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/10/impressions-civilization-v-or-i-wanna-hex-you-up/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/10/impressions-civilization-v-or-i-wanna-hex-you-up/#comments
We already told you that Sid Meier's Civilization IV was finally getting a sequel with Civilization V later this year, and then we showed you the trailer that contained absolutely no gameplay. But now we've actually seen an early build of the game, and we can tell you how hexy it is. That's right, forget about old Civilization games which had four cardinal directions plus diagonals to choose from when moving your units; this installment ramps that down to to six. That's right! Two less directions! It's a brand new game!

In all fairness, it is Civilization but Firaxis made plenty of substantial changes to it. Besides hexing it up, they've also added ranged units (think archers, artillery, ICBMs, etc) and taken out the ability to stack units up into an army. Also, only one unit can occupy a spot at any given time, meaning you won't be able to bulldoze your opponent from one hex. They've also built an entirely new engine for this game, meaning you'll see some really nifty stuff ... provided you have a DX11 card and a multicore processor.

Gallery: Civilization V (GDC 2010)

Continue reading Impressions: Civilization V or 'I Wanna Hex You Up'

JoystiqImpressions: Civilization V or 'I Wanna Hex You Up' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Mar 2010 03:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CivilizationCivilization-5FiraxisGDC-2010Sid-MeierWed, 10 Mar 2010 03:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Direct2Drive discounts Civilization IV, Supreme Commander this weekend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/27/direct2drive-discounts-civilization-iv-supreme-commander-this-w/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/27/direct2drive-discounts-civilization-iv-supreme-commander-this-w/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/27/direct2drive-discounts-civilization-iv-supreme-commander-this-w/#comments Perhaps in celebration of Civilization V's recent reveal, Direct2Drive is offering Civilization IV -- as well as the standalone Civilization IV: Colonization -- for 33% off. Other deals on the direct download service this weekend include Supreme Commander: Gold Edition, Majesty The Fantasy Kingdom Sim: Gold Edition, and more.

If you're one of the few who doesn't "get" the Civilization addiction epidemic, which has swept the world over the last two decades leaving workplace productivity in shambles, consider yourself luckier than the folks in the video after the break. Yes, Civilization Revolution was solid, but CivIV has the uncanny ability to turn the sweetest old lady into a crazed destroyer of all mankind. Basically, It's fun for the whole family.

Shortcut: See all weekend deals on Direct2Drive

Continue reading Direct2Drive discounts Civilization IV, Supreme Commander this weekend

JoystiqDirect2Drive discounts Civilization IV, Supreme Commander this weekend originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 27 Feb 2010 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-GamesbargainsCiv-4Civ-IVCivilizationCivilization-4Civilization-4-Colonizationcivilization-ivdirect2drivefiraxisfiraxis-gamessalessid-meierSid-Meiers-Civilization-4Sid-Meiers-Civilization-IVsid-meiers-civilization-iv-colonizationStrategySupreme-CommanderSat, 27 Feb 2010 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Civilization Network beta coming in June]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/02/report-civilization-network-beta-coming-in-june/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/02/report-civilization-network-beta-coming-in-june/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/02/report-civilization-network-beta-coming-in-june/#comments
 The problem with those hollow boxes littering the cubicles at your workplace is there isn't enough juice, enough substance, within to actually run any kind of program outside of Excel, Outlook or--when you're really bored--MS Paint. So if you're at work and don't really feel like working, you're forced to either scour the web for stuff or watch a neat screensaver. Then, there was hope: Civilization Network for Facebook.

However, it looks like Civilization Network is still a ways off. Variety reports that the beta for the new Facebook game won't actually start up until around June. This will likely come as a big let-down to fans, as the initial announcement back in October mentioned a hunt for beta testers would be underway "soon." We guess "soon" means "maybe in a few months or something."

JoystiqReport: Civilization Network beta coming in June originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Feb 2010 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualcivilizationcivilization-networkfacebookfiraxisfiraxis-gamessid-meiertake-twoTue, 02 Feb 2010 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilized Sid Meier presenting revolutionary keynote at GDC 2010]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/27/civilized-sid-meier-presenting-revolutionary-keynote-at-gdc-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/27/civilized-sid-meier-presenting-revolutionary-keynote-at-gdc-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/27/civilized-sid-meier-presenting-revolutionary-keynote-at-gdc-2010/#comments Sid Meier, creator of Civilization and unwitting architect of countless break-ups over the past 20 years, will keynote the 2010 Game Developers Conference. Meier's presentation will argue that "real-world, historical and mathematical facts cannot form the foundation of a successful game design," but that "the driving force of a game's design should be the psychology of the player."

Meier's keynote will dig deep into psychology, showing designers that "egomania, paranoia and delusion" should be part of their toolkit. Hm, maybe Meier isn't such an unwitting participant in all those divorces after all? GDC will take place March 9-13 at the Moscone Convention Center in San Francisco, and Meier will reveal his tips for mainlining e-crack to the brain on Friday, March 12.

JoystiqCivilized Sid Meier presenting revolutionary keynote at GDC 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Jan 2010 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>civilizationfiraxisgdcgdc-2010sid-meierWed, 27 Jan 2010 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Ken Levine lists favorite games again, changes mind on a few]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/28/ken-levine-lists-favorite-games-again-changes-mind-on-a-few/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/28/ken-levine-lists-favorite-games-again-changes-mind-on-a-few/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/28/ken-levine-lists-favorite-games-again-changes-mind-on-a-few/#comments
Ken Levine plays video games. Shocking, we know! Speaking with IndustryGamers, Levine, who is currently working on a super-secret project, listed his ten favorite games. Occupying the top five spots in descending order are: World of Warcraft, Civilization, Beyond Good & Evil, Ultima Underworld and Company of Heroes.

Back in 2007, Levine produced a similar list for MSNBC. His top five have apparently shifted in the last two years, though, as Heroes of Might and Magic 2 and Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past have fallen even beyond the BioShock developer's top ten. How hast these games forsaken thee, Ken? What hast they done for thou to banish them from thy heart likest so?

JoystiqKen Levine lists favorite games again, changes mind on a few originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Oct 2009 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-bostonbeyond-good-and-evilcivilizationcompany-of-heroesfav-5irrational-bostonirrational-gamesken-levineultima-underworldworld-or-warcraftwowWed, 28 Oct 2009 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA['Civilization Network' announced for Facebook, arriving in 2010]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/21/civilization-network-announced-for-facebook-arriving-in-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/21/civilization-network-announced-for-facebook-arriving-in-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/21/civilization-network-announced-for-facebook-arriving-in-2010/#comments
Sid Meier has announced a Facebook version of the epic Civilization franchise. Dubbed Civilization Network, the game will make its way to the popular social networking site sometime in 2010. The game designer notes on the CivNet Facebook page that the company will be on the lookout for beta testers soon.

Meier mentions that the game will offer everything people love about Civ in a "fully persistent environment" and that it'll be "free to play." Coincidentally, Meier's announcement comes soon after Brian Reynolds, who designed Civilization II and Alpha Centauri, took the job of "chief designer" at social gaming developer Zynga. Apparently the two strategy designers see some major opportunities in the social gaming genre.

[Via Games.com]

Joystiq'Civilization Network' announced for Facebook, arriving in 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Oct 2009 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>civ-networkcivilizationcivilization-networkfiraxissid-meierWed, 21 Oct 2009 17:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization Revolution available now on iPhone]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/10/civilization-revolution-available-now-on-iphone/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/10/civilization-revolution-available-now-on-iphone/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/10/civilization-revolution-available-now-on-iphone/#comments
Civilization Revolution has apparently made it's way to the iPhone and its purchase can now be rushed for $5. There is also a "lite" version of the game to test things out.

It's good to finally see an epic strategy title make its way to the iPhone/iPod touch. We'll have our impressions of the game up shortly (like, a couple hours from now). Impressions are go.

JoystiqCivilization Revolution available now on iPhone originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Aug 2009 10:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-GamesAppleciv-revCivilizationcivilization-revolutionFiraxis-GamesiPodSid-Meiers-Civilization-RevolutionStrategyMon, 10 Aug 2009 10:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization IV 'Complete' releases May 12 for $40]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/05/civilization-iv-complete-releases-may-12-for-40/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/05/civilization-iv-complete-releases-may-12-for-40/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/05/civilization-iv-complete-releases-may-12-for-40/#comments
The Civilization IV franchise appears to have come to a close as 2K Games announces Civilization IV: The Complete Edition, releasing May 12 for $40 on PC. The epic bundle includes Civ IV, the Warlords and Beyond the Sword expansions, plus the standalone Colonization expansion (it's practically a different game).

"The Complete Edition" title makes it sound like Civ IV won't be making another encore. We really have no idea what Firaxis is currently up to and we're unaware of any E3 plans.

JoystiqCivilization IV 'Complete' releases May 12 for $40 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 May 2009 23:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesciv-ivcivilizationcivilization-4civilization-ivcivilization-iv-colonizationcolonizationsid-meierTue, 05 May 2009 23:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq E3 eyes-on: Sid Meier's Civilization IV: Colonization]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/20/joystiq-e3-eyes-on-sid-meiers-civilization-iv-colonization/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/20/joystiq-e3-eyes-on-sid-meiers-civilization-iv-colonization/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/20/joystiq-e3-eyes-on-sid-meiers-civilization-iv-colonization/#commentsFiled under: ,

Sid Meier's Civilization IV: Colonization is an interesting title in its marketing and presentation. The Civ IV tag is put on the game to give an idea of what to expect for those who don't remember the original Colonization, but the game is also clearly based on the Civilization IV engine and uses similar assets. Also, given some of the well-designed mods in Civ IV expansion, Beyond the Sword, we were wondering if Colonization would end up being a glorified mod or appear to be an actual new game? We still haven't come to a conclusion on that question, but there's a lot in this stand-alone product that certainly goes beyond what we'd call "a mod."

For starters, and it really bites that we can't show the UI or find videos, the interface and music are different from Civilization IV. Also, the graphics have been given a nice boost and, seeing them in person, it's certainly noticeable. Senior Producer Jesse Smith also walked us through several other things that make Colonization different from Civ IV.

Gallery: Civilization IV: Colonization

Continue reading Joystiq E3 eyes-on: Sid Meier's Civilization IV: Colonization

JoystiqJoystiq E3 eyes-on: Sid Meier's Civilization IV: Colonization originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 20 Jul 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-GamesCiv-4Civ-IVCivilizationCivilization-4Civilization-4-ColonizationCivilization-IVe3-2008Firaxis-GamesimpressionsPCSid-Meiers-Civilization-4Sid-Meiers-Civilization-IVStrategySun, 20 Jul 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Big Versus compares Civilization Revolution to PC predecessors]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/12/big-versus-compares-civilization-revolution-to-pc-predecessors/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/12/big-versus-compares-civilization-revolution-to-pc-predecessors/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/12/big-versus-compares-civilization-revolution-to-pc-predecessors/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Wipe away those tears, sunken-eyed PC loyalists. We know you're upset that Firaxis appears to have turned their back on you in favor of the somewhat fairer console waters, but perhaps the latest edition of Big Versus on Joystiq's youngest sibling, Big Download, will mend your tattered hearts. The console-exclusive Civilization Revolution is measured against the PC-exclusive Civilization IV in this installment -- are PC gamers being robbed of an important chapter in the seminal turn-based strategy franchise, or are they dodging a dumbed-down, oversimplified bullet? You've got to read to find out -- but knowing you brainy PC types, that shouldn't be a problem.

JoystiqBig Versus compares Civilization Revolution to PC predecessors originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 12 Jul 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-Gamesbig-versusCiv-4Civ-IVCiv-RevCivilizationCivilization-4civilization-ivCivilization-RevolutionDSFiraxis-GamesMicrosoftNintendoPCSid-Meiers-Civilization-4Sid-Meiers-Civilization-IVSid-Meiers-Civilization-RevolutionstrategyXbox-360Sat, 12 Jul 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WRUP: Leading the revolution edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/11/wrup-leading-the-revolution-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/11/wrup-leading-the-revolution-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/11/wrup-leading-the-revolution-edition/#commentsFiled under:

Without a doubt, the biggest and best release of this week is Civilization Revolution. We're big fans of that Sid Meier guy, so his latest game immediately won us over. You can bet we'll be spending a large amount of time this weekend taking Abe Lincoln and the Americans to the top (their bonuses are just too awesome to ignore).

What about you all? Going to lead the revolution, as we are, or are you playing something else? How will you fill these last few days leading up to E3 2008?

JoystiqWRUP: Leading the revolution edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 Jul 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k2k-gamescivilizationcivilization-revolutionfiraxissid-meiersimstrategyFri, 11 Jul 2008 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization Revolution comes with a mini-poster surprise]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/civilization-revolution-comes-with-a-mini-poster-surprise/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/civilization-revolution-comes-with-a-mini-poster-surprise/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/civilization-revolution-comes-with-a-mini-poster-surprise/#commentsFiled under: ,

What's better than a pin-up of Izuna? Well, a pin-up of Napoleon, for starters. Bow chicka wow wow.

In all seriousness, we do like this Civilzation Revolution DS poster better (although this blogger isn't exactly in hormone-crazy young male demographic that the Izuna pieces are meant to appeal to). Hormones aside, though, Napoleon is looking pretty badass here, and we're confident he could even conquer the Ziggy Pig looking like he does.

So, how do you get one? As with Izuna, this mini-poster comes as reversible cover art, so all you have to do is buy the game. We're starting to get spoiled here, though, and soon we're going to demand that every DS title comes with such an awesome feature.

[Thanks to ChristianBK for the tip and picture!]

JoystiqCivilization Revolution comes with a mini-poster surprise originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Jul 2008 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k2k-gamescivilizationcivilization-revolutionfiraxismini-posternapoleonposterstrategyThu, 10 Jul 2008 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview: Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/09/metareview-sid-meiers-civilization-revolution/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/09/metareview-sid-meiers-civilization-revolution/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/09/metareview-sid-meiers-civilization-revolution/#commentsFiled under:


We may have weighed in on the portable title, but what about the rest of the reviewers out there? Now that the title has been available for a little while now, many of the critics have put out their verdict. And, just as we enjoyed the game, the majority of them also found it to be a good time.
  • Game Informer (85/100) gives it a good score: "Some few sacrifices have been made, notably the absence of the in-game Civilopedia, and the control is nowhere near as smooth as it is on a gamepad. However, you won't find a deeper or more replayable portable strategy experience anywhere. Civilization Revolution is a very worthwhile investment for any strategically minded DS owner."
  • Gamespy (80/100) says it's barebones, but good: "While it won't be winning any beauty contests with its barebones 2D graphics, the play's the thing and the combination of solid controls and lots of content in the form of the technologies, units and variegated civilizations make Civ Rev an enjoyable and entertaining romp through the traditionally staid and somber realm of nation management."
  • Nintendo Power (75/100) said the game lacks any competition: "If you're a fan of the genre, there are few better ways to get your fix on the go." [Aug 2008, p.89]
  • GameZone (75/100) says the DS version loses a bit compared to the consoles, but is still a good choice for on-the-go action: "Civilization Revolution is a solid entry to the series, bringing the experience to a whole new audience. While the DS version loses a little bit in the translation, it's still worth a look from hardcore series fans looking for a portable version of their fix."

JoystiqMetareview: Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Jul 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k2k-gamescivilizationcivilization-revolutionfiraxisstrategyWed, 09 Jul 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New games this week: Civilization Revolution edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/07/new-games-this-week-civilization-revolution-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/07/new-games-this-week-civilization-revolution-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/07/new-games-this-week-civilization-revolution-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Listen, we're excited by this week's biggest new release Civilization Revolution, but it looks to us like it's going to play pretty fast and loose with the truth. How can we tell? Well, let's take a look at the box art. It looks fine, right? Until you realize that Napoleon is towering over Genghis Khan!

Napoloean, as the less educated among you (and Firaxis) perhaps do not know, was 2-feet, 4-inches tall, so the thought of him being taller than anyone, let alone some of history's greatest leaders, is an affront to logic itself. The only thing we can imagine is that Lincoln is on his knees and Napoleon is standing on a apple crate of some sort, in which case we can only suggest that Honest Abe needs new representation.

Gallery: Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution

Continue reading New games this week: Civilization Revolution edition

JoystiqNew games this week: Civilization Revolution edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 07 Jul 2008 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-GamesCiv-RevCivilizationcivilization-revolutionDSFiraxis-GamesMicrosoftnewgamesNintendoPCPS2PS3PSPSid-Meiers-Civilization-RevolutionStrategyWiiXbox-360Mon, 07 Jul 2008 09:15:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Fanboy Review: Civilization Revolution]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/ds-fanboy-review-civilization-revolution/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/ds-fanboy-review-civilization-revolution/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/ds-fanboy-review-civilization-revolution/#commentsFiled under:


Few games have inspired as many different reactions -- all heated, all extreme -- in me as Civilization Revolution. There are few aspects of the game that are just "okay" for me; everything is either really awesome or really annoying, and in the end, it's difficult to condense all of those feelings into a simple yea or nay. The short version is that Civilization Revolution is a pretty good DS game. As a Civ game ... well, it's different.

Civilization is an intense experience. After all, you're starting with a few guys dressed in ill-fitting skins and attempting to conquer the world through a variety of strategies. The games are often enormous, sprawling across a map that can take up most of the globe (oceans be damned), and due to the sheer size of the games, they've just never worked well on consoles. This game changes that, but in a very intriguing way. Civilization Revolution isn't a port. It's not a remake, or even really a reimagining. It's a complete rebuild, with such radical changes in some areas that it hardly feels like the same game, and yet, the base gameplay of one of the world's best turn-based strategy franchises somehow manages to remain intact. It's not without flaws -- and some are pretty serious -- but Civilization Revolution does manage to accomplish a very simple goal, and that's stripping down Civ and making it a manageable (and fun!) portable experience.

Continue reading DS Fanboy Review: Civilization Revolution

JoystiqDS Fanboy Review: Civilization Revolution originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Jul 2008 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamescivilizationcivilization-revolutionfiraxisjoystiqfeaturesstrategyThu, 03 Jul 2008 08:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview (Euro Edition) -- Civilization Revolution (Xbox 360, PS3)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/metareview-euro-edition-civilization-revolution-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/metareview-euro-edition-civilization-revolution-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/metareview-euro-edition-civilization-revolution-xbox-360/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution is out in the PAL lands and reviews on the "accessible," console-centric interpretation of the epic franchise are coming in. The common thread running through many of the reviews (for better or worse) is that Revolution isn't a console port of the PC's excellent Civilization IV; a point the developers have been incessantly repeating since Revolution was first shown last year. The Xbox 360, PS3 and DS versions of Civ Rev will be available in North America July 8.
  • Xbox World 360 (85/100): "Away from the main single-player campaign you'll find a number of scenarios to tackle, there's the promise of a free downloadable 'game of the week' and the Live multiplayer options are comprehensive. While far from as deep as the PC games, Revolution is a fine achievement, extremely accessible and great fun to play."
  • Eurogamer (80/100): "Unfortunately, I'd be lying, as the many punches Civ Rev pulls means its exhilaration is so often followed by slight dissatisfaction. An 8 may not be enough to convince cynical minds to suck it and see, which is a terrible shame. This slick new Civilization may be more reduction than Revolution, but it's easily one of the most distinctive games on 360 and PS3."
  • NZGamer (75/100): "For new players, it may be a stepping stone to true greatness. Fans of the older Civ games may enjoy it for nostalgia. It may also serve as a 'nicotine patch' for megalomaniacs; a healthier alternative to wasting whole days taking over the world. The serious Civ fans, however, should keep to their PCs: this one isn't for them."

JoystiqMetareview (Euro Edition) -- Civilization Revolution (Xbox 360, PS3) originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Jun 2008 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>civ-revcivilizationcivilization-revolutionDSmetareviewPS3Xbox-360Tue, 24 Jun 2008 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sid Meier: We're not turning our backs on Wii]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/sid-meier-were-not-turning-our-backs-on-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/sid-meier-were-not-turning-our-backs-on-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/sid-meier-were-not-turning-our-backs-on-wii/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


In GameDaily's 10 Questions feature, Sid Meier explains what happened to the delayed Wii version of his upcoming console-based Civilization Revolution. Meier explains that the company is still trying to decide what to do about the Wii version, but says the console is fantastic and they have "no intentions of turning [their] backs on it."

With work now finished on the Xbox 360, PS3 and DS versions of Civ Rev, it appears the title is on track for a July 8 release. The Civ Rev demo is currently available on Xbox 360 and PS3 to try out the streamlined, yet surprisingly Civ-feeling, console game.

JoystiqSid Meier: We're not turning our backs on Wii originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Jun 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>civ-revcivilizationcivilization-revolutionmeierPCPS3sid-meierWiiXbox-360Tue, 10 Jun 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization IV: Colonization announced, no Civ IV required]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/civilization-iv-colonization-announced-no-civ-iv-required/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/civilization-iv-colonization-announced-no-civ-iv-required/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/civilization-iv-colonization-announced-no-civ-iv-required/#commentsFiled under: ,


2K Games announced today that they'll release Civilization IV: Colonization sometime this autumn. Don't let the title fool you, the game is a stand-alone product (meaning it doesn't require Civ IV) and is an update of the classic strategy game, Colonization, by Sid Meier and Brian Reynolds back in the Microprose days.

Colonization has players leading one of four European nations trying to take over the New World. 2K Games says the title will feature "all-new graphics" -- although we can't tell much difference from Civ IV -- along with improved diplomacy. Considering it's a stand-alone product, we understand the Civ IV name was put in the title to sell more copies; however, we hope Colonization doesn't feel like a missing member from the "scenarios" available in Civ IV: Beyond the Sword., many of which could arguably have been stand-alone products.

Gallery: Civilization IV: Colonization

JoystiqCivilization IV: Colonization announced, no Civ IV required originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Jun 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k2k-gamesbreakingnewscivilizationcivilization-ivcivilization-iv-colonizationcolonizationPCsid-meier-civilization-iv-colonizationMon, 09 Jun 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization Revolution gets techy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/civilization-revolution-gets-techy/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/civilization-revolution-gets-techy/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/civilization-revolution-gets-techy/#commentsFiled under:

Dying for details on Civilization: Revolution? Yearning to know just what the reward will be if you're the first to get Masonry? Wonder no more, for the (incomplete) tech tree from the PS3/Xbox 360 demo versions of the game is available after the break. The DS version, it is worth noting, features the same gameplay, so the tree will apply.

Some technologies are locked and unavailable in the demo, so everything isn't covered here, but thanks to Sigmakan at the 2K forums, we've got a pretty good idea of what we'll be racing for -- and how we'll use it -- then the game hits our beloved handheld early next month.

Continue reading Civilization Revolution gets techy

JoystiqCivilization Revolution gets techy originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Jun 2008 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamescivilizationcivilization-revolutionfiraxisstrategytech-treeMon, 09 Jun 2008 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization Revolution demo tomorrow for Xbox 360 and PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/civilization-revolution-demo-tomorrow-for-xbox-360-and-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/civilization-revolution-demo-tomorrow-for-xbox-360-and-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/civilization-revolution-demo-tomorrow-for-xbox-360-and-ps3/#commentsFiled under: ,

Gamespot reports that a demo for console-centric Civilization Revolution will be available tomorrow on Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3. The demo will fill about 1.08 gigglebytes of hard drive space and include both single and multiplayer demos. Players will have the option of playing as Cleopatra or Caesar up until 1250 AD in the turn-based strategy game.

The demo will become available tomorrow beginning at 5AM EST on Xbox Live and as part of the PSN update sometime during the afternoon. We're definitely looking forward to testing out the demo and seeing if our civilization will stand the test of time survive until 1250 AD. Civilization Revolution is currently scheduled to release on July 8 for Xbox 360, PS3 and DS.

[Via X3F, Thanks Jonah]

JoystiqCivilization Revolution demo tomorrow for Xbox 360 and PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Jun 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-GamesCiv-Revcivilizationcivilization-revolutiondemoFiraxis-GamesMicrosoftPS3Sid-Meiers-Civilization-RevolutionStrategyXbox-360Wed, 04 Jun 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization Revolution demo on PSN this week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/civilization-revolution-demo-on-psn-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/civilization-revolution-demo-on-psn-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/civilization-revolution-demo-on-psn-this-week/#commentsFiled under: ,

There will be a Civilization Revolution demo out this Thursday as part of this week's regularly scheduled PSN update. Since the title has been pushed back to July 8 instead of coming out on its original June 3 release, the folks at Firaxis and 2K Games thought it would be a good idea to give you something to play while waiting the extra month. The demo has two forces, Rome and Egypt. It also comes packed in with a tutorial for those new to the turn-based strategy game.

This demo sounds a lot like the one we've played previously, so perhaps you might want to read our hands-on impression to get ready for this Thursday. Also, if you're really interested in Civilization Revolution, then you better watch our video interview with the creator himself, Sid Meier.

JoystiqCivilization Revolution demo on PSN this week originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Jun 2008 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-games2kgamescivilizationcivilizationrevolutionfiraxisWed, 04 Jun 2008 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization Revolution demo hitting Thursday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/civilization-revolution-demo-hitting-thursday/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/civilization-revolution-demo-hitting-thursday/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/civilization-revolution-demo-hitting-thursday/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The turn-based strategy genre is rather under represented on the 360 and the upcoming Civilization Revolution should help to fix that. While the traditionally hardcore conquer-the-world game is rather PC centric, there are tweaks to the gameplay and control scheme that should allow console gamers to get a handle on things fast. Of course, with the release of the demo at 2am on Thursday, gamers should get the chance to give the changes a try for themselves. Games of Civ can go on for hours, so just what form the demo will take should be interesting to find out. Even if it is just a simplified port, the 360 needs to expand its library with more games like this, so give the demo a download tomorrow.

JoystiqCivilization Revolution demo hitting Thursday originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Jun 2008 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>civ-revcivilizationcivilization-revolutionsid-meierWed, 04 Jun 2008 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Civ Revolution delayed until July, Sid Meier enters Guinness records]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/29/civilization-revolution-delayed-until-july-sid-meier-enters-gui/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/29/civilization-revolution-delayed-until-july-sid-meier-enters-gui/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/29/civilization-revolution-delayed-until-july-sid-meier-enters-gui/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2K Games announced today that Sid Meier has been entered into the Guinness World Records Gamer's Edition 2008 as the industry's most award-winning developer. Currently working on Civilization Revolution, Meier's awards span a lengthy career so far, with his latest being the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2008 Game Developers Choice Awards.

Meier took the opportunity to thank the critics for their recognition over the years and to plug Civ Revolution in his statement. Speaking of which, buried at the bottom of the press release was the news that Civ Revolution has been delayed until July 8 from its expected June 3 release. Perhaps the delay will allow Meier some time to figure out where he'll store all the Revolution awards?

JoystiqCiv Revolution delayed until July, Sid Meier enters Guinness records originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 May 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-GamesbreakingnewsCiv-RevCivilizationCivilization-RevolutionDSFiraxis-GamesMicrosoftNintendoPS3Sid-Meiers-Civilization-RevolutionStrategyXbox-360Thu, 29 May 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 Fanboy hands-on: Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/21/ps3-fanboy-hands-on-sid-meiers-civilization-revolution/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/21/ps3-fanboy-hands-on-sid-meiers-civilization-revolution/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/21/ps3-fanboy-hands-on-sid-meiers-civilization-revolution/#commentsFiled under:

Also at New York Comic Con this weekend, we headed over to 2K Games booth and tested out Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution. We went straight ahead into a single player game. Out of the 16 civilizations in the game, two were playable on the demo: Romans and Egyptians. We decided to take on the role of the powerful Roman Empire.

When we first kicked things off we noticed right away that the streamlined interface was an intuitive system; we easily shot straight into the natural flow of the game. Things go much faster in Civilization Revolution as compared to the traditional PC games as a lot of commands have been simplified. For example, workers are not controlled individually and automatically carry out preset commands. This is good as it cuts out tedious and repetitious actions within turns and lets you focus more on moving military units and defending your empire.

Continue reading PS3 Fanboy hands-on: Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution

JoystiqPS3 Fanboy hands-on: Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 Apr 2008 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamescivilizationcivilizationrevolutionfiraxisjoystiqfeaturessid-meierMon, 21 Apr 2008 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Meet Sid Meier at NY Comic Con this Saturday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/17/meet-sid-meier-at-ny-comic-con-this-saturday/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/17/meet-sid-meier-at-ny-comic-con-this-saturday/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/17/meet-sid-meier-at-ny-comic-con-this-saturday/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Sid Meier is attending New York Comic Con '08 this weekend promoting his upcoming Civilization Revolution game. He'll be at the 2K Games Booth (#1157) on Saturday, April 19, from 1-3PM. He'll be making chit-chat with fans and "providing autographs." There's +2 internets in it for the guy who gets Meier to sign his man-boob.

Attendees will also get a chance to try out demos of the console-only Civilization Revolution, which should be very close to done now. Revolution is expected to release on Xbox 360, PS3 and DS on June 3. The Wii version is still hidden by the fog-of-war.

JoystiqMeet Sid Meier at NY Comic Con this Saturday originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 Apr 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-GamesCiv-RevCivilizationcivilization-revolutioncivilizationrevolutioncomic-conDSFiraxis-GamesMicrosoftnew-york-comic-conNintendoPS3sid-meierSid-Meiers-Civilization-RevolutionStrategyXbox-360Thu, 17 Apr 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization Revolution establishes community site]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/civilization-revolution-establishes-community-site/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/civilization-revolution-establishes-community-site/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/civilization-revolution-establishes-community-site/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution now has a nice little official site in a corner of the internet to explore, expand, exploit and exterminate. The site for the "it's totally not a port" console version of Civilization provides general information about the game, along with a developer podcast explaining what makes Revolution different from the PC version.

The need to explain by the developers and 2K Games that Revolution is not a "dumbed down" version of Civilization is so pervasive that there's also a Q&A section on the site that tries to explain as much. Revolution will be available on Xbox 360, PS3 and DS on June 3 ... the Wii version is currently on hold.

JoystiqCivilization Revolution establishes community site originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Mar 2008 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-GamesCiv-RevCivilizationCivilization-RevolutionDSFiraxis-GamesMicrosoftNintendoPS3Sid-Meiers-Civilization-RevolutionStrategyXbox-360Thu, 20 Mar 2008 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization Revolution website launched, new info]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/civilization-revolution-website-launched-new-info/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/civilization-revolution-website-launched-new-info/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/civilization-revolution-website-launched-new-info/#commentsFiled under:

The official website for the upcoming console game Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution is now up and running. Civ enthusiasts might want to check it out; the site has a lot of new information on all sixteen civilizations, specifically on their rulers and the unique bonuses each civilization will receive. One interesting news bit is that each civilization not only gets one bonus throughout gameplay, but will get a different bonus as the game progresses into a new age. This brings better balance to more ancient civs in the latter stages of the game and vice versa.

Another revealed detail about the game is the confirmation of downloadable content such as multi-player maps and scenarios for the PlayStation Network. Also there are unlockable maps, scenarios, and mods to be found offline as well.

If you're a big fan of the Civilization series, but too much of a traditionalist to accept having the next game on a console, then you're missing out. Revolution looks likes it's going to be a worthy addition to the series; it's visually on par with Civilization IV and from what we're hearing thus far, it sounds like it's improving on the tried-and-tested formula. If you're interested in seeing more on the game, check out the official website.

JoystiqCivilization Revolution website launched, new info originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Mar 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>civilizationcivilization-revolutioncivilizationrevolutionfiraxisfiraxisgamessid-meiersid-meiers-civilization-revolutionThu, 20 Mar 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization Revolution 'never' coming to PC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/18/civilization-revolution-never-coming-to-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/18/civilization-revolution-never-coming-to-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/18/civilization-revolution-never-coming-to-pc/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2K Games continues to emphasize that the console-centric Civilization Revolution is a totally different branch from the PC's Civilization franchise by telling MTV's Multiplayer that Revolution will "never" come to PC. It's a similar thing to what we were told at E3 last year when we got our first chance to see Revolution.

Jason Bergman, a producer for 2K Games, tells MTV that the game was designed from the ground up to be played with a gamepad. Since the game was announced, many PS3 owners have asked if the game will support a mouse and keyboard. Bergman says, "The answer is no ... The game has not been designed for that [controller]." He highlights again that Revolution is not a port, but an entirely new game. We kinda feel bad for the guy, it sounds like he's been repeating the same defense for the title over and over again since last July.

JoystiqCivilization Revolution 'never' coming to PC originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 18 Mar 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k games2k-games2kgamescivilizationcivilization revolut...civilization-revolut...CivilizationRevolut...civilizationrevolutionDSmeierPS3sid-meierWiiXbox-360Tue, 18 Mar 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution gets release date and screenshots]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/sid-meiers-civilization-revolution-gets-release-date-and-screen/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/sid-meiers-civilization-revolution-gets-release-date-and-screen/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/sid-meiers-civilization-revolution-gets-release-date-and-screen/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click for high-resolution image.

Sid Meier's Civilization series is one of the most renown turn-based nation-building sims on the PC, but the next title in the franchise won't be going to the platform of its roots. Instead, the latest game, Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution, will be hitting up the PlayStation 3 and other systems. If you want to play the next Civ game it's time to get a PS3; you'll have to get one soon because Civilization Revolution is expected to make its way to retailers by June 3, 2008.

It's not the first time for a Civilization game to make the crossover to the console arena, but Civilization Revolution is the first to be made solely for it. Firaxis built the game from scratch, and have given the control schemes a streamlined interface in order to make Civilization Revolution more console-friendly.

For those unfamiliar with the Civilization series, the goal of each game is to choose a civilization, build it up, and eventually conquer the world either through brutal warfare or cultural influence. To see how it all actually goes down, check out the new screenshots down below.


JoystiqSid Meier's Civilization Revolution gets release date and screenshots originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Feb 2008 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2kgamescivilizationcivilization-revolutionfiraxissid-meiersid-meiers-civilizationWed, 20 Feb 2008 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[IGN seeks out new Civilization]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/12/ign-seeks-out-new-civilization/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/12/ign-seeks-out-new-civilization/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/12/ign-seeks-out-new-civilization/#commentsFiled under:

It's no surprise that Civilization is great -- it's been being great for decades. But what is nice to hear is that our very own DS version of Civilization Revolution is turning out well. IGN's Steve Butts calls it "essentially just a portable version of the game you're getting on the home systems," in that the game design is unchanged aside from obvious graphical scaling-back and the addition of touchscreen controls. Sid Meier assured us of much the same thing, but we prefer to get confirmation from somebody whose name isn't on the box.

As for details -- well, if there's pretty much anything you want to know about Civilization Revolution, this exhaustive preview has it. For example, the discussion on technology. While you can't set your research on autopilot in order to go directly to a certain technology, you can arrive at many of them via multiple paths. If a technological breakthrough has multiple prerequisites, achieving any of them will qualify you for the new tech. And you get a bonus for being the first to discover a certain technology.

If you're already thinking about historical discoveries that would totally rule in-game, and the previous discoveries that led to them, you should consider checking out the full preview.

See also: 2008's Biggest Blips: Civilization Revolution

JoystiqIGN seeks out new Civilization originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Feb 2008 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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