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[Report: Timegate closes its doors]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/report-timegate-closes-its-doors/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/report-timegate-closes-its-doors/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/report-timegate-closes-its-doors/#commentsReport Timegate closes its doors Timegate, the studio behind Section 8 and Aliens: Colonial Marines, laid off its entire staff today, Kotaku reports.

On May 2, Timegate filed for bankruptcy protection, citing a debt of up to $50 million. The filing revealed that Timegate owed large sums to 50 companies, including Epic Games, Agora Games and DJ2 Entertainment. In April, Timegate lost an appeal against publisher SouthPeak Interactive, potentially losing the Section 8 license and adding $7.35 million to its debt. SouthPeak fought for Timegate's closure in arbitration and won, leading to today's layoffs, the report says.

Timegate let go 25 employees in March, citing a rough transition to next-gen consoles and a publishing deal that fell through. The studio's most recent project is Minimum, a free-to-play shooter for PC that was supposed to launch on Steam Early Access on April 16. Minimum is currently not listed anywhere on Steam.

JoystiqReport: Timegate closes its doors originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 May 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bankruptcyclosurelayoffssection-8-prejudiceTimeGateTimeGate-StudiosThu, 09 May 2013 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Steam deals: Stealth Bastard, Closure, Snapshot, more this week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/30/steam-deals-stealth-bastard-closure-snapshot-more-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/30/steam-deals-stealth-bastard-closure-snapshot-more-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/30/steam-deals-stealth-bastard-closure-snapshot-more-this-week/#comments This week, Steam is discounting a dozen different indie games. Stealth Bastard Deluxe, a fast-paced 2D stealth game from Curve Studios, is a tempting $4.99. Closure, the dark platformer from Eyebrow Interactive, is a mere $3.39 - definitely worth the pittance. Snapshot is also $3.39, a puzzle platformer from Kyle Pulver built upon an inventive photography mechanic.

Retrovirus is half-off at $10, a shooter where players guide a ship through a computer system to eradicate a virus. Turret-based strategy game Sol Survivor is next on the list, down to $2.49 for the remainder of the sale. Spark Unlimited's Legendary, a shooter based on the Pandora's Box myth, joins the sale soiree for $1.24; Nikopal: Secrets of the Immortals is also $1.24, a 3D adventure game set in France during the year 2023. BC Kings, also $1.24, is s a strategy game set in the stone age.

The final three games rounding out the list are: Puzzle Kingdoms for $3.74, a game from the creators of Puzzle Quest in very much the same vein; 4 Elements, a color-matching game from Playrix Entertainment set in a fantasy world, for $2; and Cave Story+ for $4.99, Nicalis' port of Daisuke Amaya's lauded platform-adventure game. All of these games are on sale until May 6 at 10am PT.

JoystiqSteam deals: Stealth Bastard, Closure, Snapshot, more this week originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 30 Apr 2013 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cave-storyclosurelegendarymacpcsnapshotsol-survivorstealth-bastardstealth-bastard-deluxestealth-bastard-tactical-espionage-arseholesteamvalveTue, 30 Apr 2013 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: EA Partners label to close]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/report-ea-partners-label-to-close/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/report-ea-partners-label-to-close/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/report-ea-partners-label-to-close/#comments EA is reportedly shuttering its third-party co-publishing Partners label, responsible for bringing out the likes of the Crysis series, Shadows of the Damned, Alice: Madness Returns, Bulletstorm, Brutal Legend, and the Rock Band series among many others.

According to Game Informer, who note "multiple anonymous sources close to the matter," the Partners label will be terminated "soon." Game Informer's sources say the purported closure shouldn't affect Insomniac's Fuse and Respawn Entertainment's unannounced project being released, despite both games being tied to the label.

The report follows news of widespread layoffs at EA earlier this month, as well as the apparent retirement of its Playfish line. There are also reports of the EA Mobile Brazil and BioWare Social studios closing, as well as one in based in London, UK.

We've reached out to EA for comment.

JoystiqReport: EA Partners label to close originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Apr 2013 02:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>closureeaea-partnersfuseinsomniacRespawn-EntertainmentThu, 25 Apr 2013 02:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Whore of the Orient faces uncertain future, studio layoffs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/report-whore-of-the-orient-faces-uncertain-future-studio-layof/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/report-whore-of-the-orient-faces-uncertain-future-studio-layof/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/report-whore-of-the-orient-faces-uncertain-future-studio-layof/#comments Whore of the Orient, the next game from the makers of L.A. Noire, looks to be in jeopardy following multiple reports of its team being laid off by Kennedy Mitchell Miller. MCV Pacific, Kotaku, and Player Attack sources say KMM has shuttered the Whore of the Orient division; KMM absorbed the remnants of L.A. Noire developer Team Bondi in 2011.

KMM partner Doug Mitchell didn't comment on the reports when speaking to MCV, but noted the company is still "actively pursuing the right investor to partner with" on Whore of the Orient.

Online sleuth supereroregatory dug up a blog post, now deleted, by a purported partner of a KMM staff member which indicated Warner Bros pulled out from the game in December 2012, and that any new deal with a new publisher, expected to happen this month, "would come too late."

As Kotaku notes, KMM Interactive, the company's games division, advertised for a Lead Engine Programmer as recently as April 5, raising doubts over the Whore of the Orient team being laid off so soon after. In any case, without a partner to invest in it, the game's future is in doubt. If it does come out, rumors suggest the earliest we'll see it is 2015.

JoystiqReport: Whore of the Orient faces uncertain future, studio layoffs originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 18 Apr 2013 06:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>closureKennedy-Miller-Mitchellkmmkmm-interactivelayoffswhore-of-the-orientThu, 18 Apr 2013 06:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Sega Studios Australia to close later this year]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/04/report-sega-studios-australia-to-close-later-this-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/04/report-sega-studios-australia-to-close-later-this-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/04/report-sega-studios-australia-to-close-later-this-year/#comments Sega Studios Australia, the team behind 2009's Stormrise and London 2012 Olympics, will close "later this year," Sega tells Kotaku.

Sega Studios Australia was originally part of The Creative Assembly Australia, responsible for Medieval 2: Total War, but was renamed to work on the Olympics game. In 2012, Sega laid off 37 of 80 total employees at Studios Australia to better transition work on a "multi-product deal focussing across the digital marketplace." Nothing materialized publicly from this deal.

This is the latest in a smattering of studio restructuring, including Disney shutting down LucasArts, Square Enix layoffs in Los Angeles, and Activision's High Moon Studios clearing out the Deadpool team.

JoystiqReport: Sega Studios Australia to close later this year originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Apr 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>closurelayoffsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3Segasega-studios-australiaxboxThu, 04 Apr 2013 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Jerry Bruckheimer Games closed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/report-jerry-bruckheimer-games-closed/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/report-jerry-bruckheimer-games-closed/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/report-jerry-bruckheimer-games-closed/#comments American film and television producer Jerry Bruckheimer's eponymous software development studio Jerry Bruckheimer Games has been shut down, according to Gamespot. After having released a grand total of zero games since its inception in 2007, Jerry Bruckheimer Games is "no longer a functioning entity," a Bruckheimer Films representative is quoted as saying.

Prior to this, the last we'd heard of Jerry's incubation chamber was way back in 2011, when rumors spread that the studio was working on three different titles. No games or projects, however, were ever officially announced.

JoystiqReport: Jerry Bruckheimer Games closed originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Mar 2013 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>closureJerry-Bruckheimerjerry-bruckheimer-gamesreportFri, 01 Mar 2013 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Zynga East shuttered, studios in Texas and New York consolidated]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/25/zynga-east-shuttered-studios-in-texas-and-new-york-consolidated/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/25/zynga-east-shuttered-studios-in-texas-and-new-york-consolidated/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/25/zynga-east-shuttered-studios-in-texas-and-new-york-consolidated/#comments Zynga shut down its Baltimore studio, Zynga East, and planned to combine studios in Texas and New York, putting roughly 30 people out of work today. Zynga will consolidate its two studios in Austin, Texas, and relocate the studio in McKinney, Texas, to Dallas. Zynga's New York City offices will merge, transferring staff to the area's mobile studio.

"In an effort to leverage resources as we focus on creating franchises and driving profitability, Zynga has made changes to four of our US offices," Zynga COO David Ko told Joystiq. He concluded: "While these decisions are always difficult, these steps will affect approximately 1 percent of our workforce and enable us to focus our resources on the most significant growth opportunities."

Zynga lost chief game designer and head of Zynga East Brian Reynolds in January, and shut down CityVille 2 development. This continues a trend of financial problems, game closures and executive departures at Zynga.

JoystiqZynga East shuttered, studios in Texas and New York consolidated originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Feb 2013 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BaltimoreclosurelayoffsmobilepcZyngaZynga-EastMon, 25 Feb 2013 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[PSN Tuesday: Dragonborn, Ecolibrium, Persona 4 Arena]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/12/psn-tuesday-dragonborn-ecolibrium-persona-4-arena/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/12/psn-tuesday-dragonborn-ecolibrium-persona-4-arena/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/12/psn-tuesday-dragonborn-ecolibrium-persona-4-arena/#comments Skyrim's Dragonborn DLC pack has landed its clawed, winged self on the PlayStation Network, two months after the Xbox 360 release and one week after the content's PC debut. The $9.99 adventure sends you back to the scene of Morrowind's Bloodmoon expansion, the Island of Solstheim.

Also dropping on PSN today is the entirety of Persona 4 Arena for PS3, as well as Rocketbirds: Hardboiled Chicken and Ecolibrium for Vita, the latter of which is completely free. This month, PlayStation Plus subscribers can add Closure to their Instant Game Collection, which is kind of cheating, if you ask us -- we've been paying our therapist to bring closure for years.

Hit the source link below for the full list of what's new.

JoystiqPSN Tuesday: Dragonborn, Ecolibrium, Persona 4 Arena originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Feb 2013 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>closureDLCecolibriumpersona-4-arenaplaystationplaystation-vitaps3psn-tuesdayrocketbirds-hard-boiled-chickenskyrimvitaTue, 12 Feb 2013 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Closure free on PS Plus this week, Critter Crunch for $1.40]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/11/closure-free-on-ps-plus-this-week-critter-crunch-for-1-40/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/11/closure-free-on-ps-plus-this-week-critter-crunch-for-1-40/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/11/closure-free-on-ps-plus-this-week-critter-crunch-for-1-40/#comments Closure, the black-and-white game in which objects only exist if a light is shining on them, gets its own spotlight this week. Starting tomorrow, the PSN game is free for PlayStation Plus members.

Critter Crunch is pretty much the opposite of black and white, featuring prominent rainbow vomitus. Capy's PS3 puzzle game isn't free, but it is really cheap this week at $1.40. Other special offers include Alien Breed for $8, Derrick the Deathfin for $4, and 2c0% off of NHL 13.

JoystiqClosure free on PS Plus this week, Critter Crunch for $1.40 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Feb 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alien-breedclosurecritter-crunchderrick-the-deathfinplaystationplaystation-plusps3Mon, 11 Feb 2013 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Vigil Games Lead Combat Designer stands up, says goodbye]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/vigil-games-lead-combat-designer-stands-up-says-goodbye/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/vigil-games-lead-combat-designer-stands-up-says-goodbye/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/vigil-games-lead-combat-designer-stands-up-says-goodbye/#comments Vigil Games Lead Combat Designer stands up, says goodbyeVigil Games Lead Combat Designer Ben Cureton and the rest of the Vigil staff cleaned out the office today, after Vigil was left untouched at THQ's auction. Vigil was shuttered, and as per THQ's letter to employees, everyone working there was laid off. In a post on NeoGAF, Cureton compared the scene in the office to a silent warzone.

"The walls look bare," he wrote. "It's quiet. The seats are empty."

Vigil Games, the studio behind Darksiders 2, was working on something called Crawler, a project we first heard about in THQ's December bankruptcy filing. After two months working on Crawler, Cureton was convinced that it would blow people's minds.

"I knew, without a shadow of the doubt, that the project we were working on (Codenamed: Crawler) was going to blow people away. In fact, it did blow people away. We did, in two months, what many companies haven't done in a year. The pride of knowing that no one was doing anything like us was so satisfying, it kept us coming to work and giving 100 percent every single day, even through the dark times."

Today was one of those dark times. Cureton was taken aback when he didn't find Vigil's name on the list of purchased properties.

"Maybe you can imagine what it feels like when you read the list of who bought what only to discover your name is not on the list," he said. "Why? Did we do something wrong? Were we not good enough? Were we not worth 'anything?' Imagine that."

In the end, Cureton thanked fans of the Darksiders series and promised to continue making games, having already worked in the industry 20 years.

"In closing, I can only say thank you to the fans of Vigil games," Cureton said. "Your support means more than you can imagine. Your feedback (both positive and negative) gave us long-lasting insight that we will all take with us, wherever we may go. You are the reason we made Darksiders 1 and 2... and you are the reason we will continue to make games.

"And with that... my seat is empty."

JoystiqVigil Games Lead Combat Designer stands up, says goodbye originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Jan 2013 18:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>closureDarksidersdarksiders-2microsoftnintendopcplaystationps3shut-downshutteredTHQvigil-gameswii-uxboxWed, 23 Jan 2013 18:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Zynga Japan closing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/22/zynga-japan-closing/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/22/zynga-japan-closing/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/22/zynga-japan-closing/#comments As was originally suggested by Zynga CEO Mark Pincus back in October, Zynga Japan will be closing its doors as part of a company wide "Cost Reduction Plan" this January. The decision was made official by an announcement on Zynga Japan CEO Kenji Matsubara's Facebook profile, where he thanked users for playing his company's games.

Three of Zynga Japan's games have already been discontinued: City builder Machitsuku, Scrabble clone Mojitomo and monster training RPG Montopia. Zynga Japan's mobile card battling game Ayakashi (available in the US as Ayakashi: Ghost Guild) will continue to operate beyond the developer's official closure at the end of January, 2013.

Other branches affected by the Cost Reduction Plan include Zynga Austin, which suffered a significant reduction in staff, along with Zynga Boston, which was closed entirely.

JoystiqZynga Japan closing originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 22 Dec 2012 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidclosureiosiphoneKenji-MatsubaraMachitsukumobileMojitomoMontopiaZyngaZynga-JapanSat, 22 Dec 2012 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation: The Official Magazine shut down, final issue this holiday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/06/playstation-the-official-magazine-shut-down-final-issue-this-h/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/06/playstation-the-official-magazine-shut-down-final-issue-this-h/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/06/playstation-the-official-magazine-shut-down-final-issue-this-h/#comments HIT NEXT Official PlayStation Magazine shutting downPlayStation: The Official Magazine is halting production, and the holiday 2012 issue will be its last, Game Informer reports.

Earlier this year, PlayStation: The Official Magazine publisher Future US announced the shutdown of Nintendo Power. The final issue of Nintendo Power is slated for December, and we compiled a tribute post with memories from across the industry to mark its retirement.

JoystiqPlayStation: The Official Magazine shut down, final issue this holiday originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Nov 2012 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>closureFuture-USplaystationplaystation-the-official-magazineps3shut-downSONYTue, 06 Nov 2012 19:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Zynga shedding staff in Boston, Austin, Chicago [Update: Letter from CEO]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/23/rumor-zynga-boston-austin-chicago-closing-down/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/23/rumor-zynga-boston-austin-chicago-closing-down/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/23/rumor-zynga-boston-austin-chicago-closing-down/#comments Twitter is on fire with messages that Zynga offices in Boston, Austin and Chicago are closing down. We have contacted Zynga and its employees for clarification.

An employee at Zynga Austin tells Joystiq, "So what I know as of now that The Ville and Bingo teams were cut. I don't know anything about Chicago at the moment." Zynga Austin is responsible for The Ville, Zynga Bingo and Slots, meaning this cut leaves just the Slots team. There are about 70 people left at Zynga Austin, the employee says.

Zynga Boston General Manager Fareed Mosavat is tweeting out job offers in the city, writing, "The outpouring of support for us has been incredible. Love this Boston scene."

Zynga Boston is behind Facebook game Adventure World, and comprises employees from Zynga's acquisition of Conduit Labs in 2010. In March 2011 it acquired Floodgate Entertainment, and by September 2011 Zynga Boston had 35 employees, some recruited from MMO developer Turbine.

Update: Zynga CEO Mark Pincus sent out a letter to employees that confirms the closure of its Boston studio and a significant reduction at its Austin studio, resulting in a loss of 5 percent of its full-time employees, among other changes. Read the letter here.

JoystiqRumor: Zynga shedding staff in Boston, Austin, Chicago [Update: Letter from CEO] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Oct 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>closurelayofflayoffsmacpcZyngazynga-austinzynga-bostonzynga-chicagoTue, 23 Oct 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Closure lights up Steam on September 7]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/27/closure-lights-up-steam-on-september-7/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/27/closure-lights-up-steam-on-september-7/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/27/closure-lights-up-steam-on-september-7/#comments Closure lights up Steam on September 7
Closure will jump from PlayStation Network to PC and Mac next week, Eyebrow Interactive confirmed today. On September 7, the 2012 Indie Game Challenge winner will be released on Steam for $10, coming in at $5 less than when it hit on PSN back in March. The light-orientated puzzle-platformer also brings extras to its Steam version, including a developer commentary mode unlocked after beating the game.

Programmer Tyler Gliael and artist Jon Schubbe are showing the game off at PAX Prime this weekend, but in the meantime you can read Richard's review for a glowing reference.

Check out its moody screens after the break.

Continue reading Closure lights up Steam on September 7

JoystiqClosure lights up Steam on September 7 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 27 Aug 2012 06:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>closureeyebrow-interactivemacpax-primepax-prime-2012pcplaystationps3release-datesteamMon, 27 Aug 2012 06:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo Power's last issue will run in December]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/22/nintendo-powers-last-issue-will-run-in-december/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/22/nintendo-powers-last-issue-will-run-in-december/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/22/nintendo-powers-last-issue-will-run-in-december/#comments Nintendo Power's last issue will run in DecemberAfter yesterday's report that the 24-year history of Nintendo Power was coming to an end, Nintendo has confirmed that the December 2012 issue will be the magazine's last. "Nintendo can confirm that Future US will end the production of Nintendo Power magazine with the last issue slated for December 2012," the company told CVG (which is also owned by Future Publishing, incidentally).

According to yesterday's report, Nintendo was "difficult to work with" and did little to help Future transition the magazine into the online era. Nintendo Power staff members will reportedly migrate to other Future publications.

JoystiqNintendo Power's last issue will run in December originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Aug 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsclosuredsnintendonintendo-powerwiiwii-uWed, 22 Aug 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Game Australia to close all of its stores in the coming weeks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/20/game-australia-to-close-all-of-its-stores-in-the-coming-weeks/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/20/game-australia-to-close-all-of-its-stores-in-the-coming-weeks/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/20/game-australia-to-close-all-of-its-stores-in-the-coming-weeks/#comments GAME Australia now in the process of shutting stores downRetailer Game Australia will shut down all 31 of its remaining stores over the coming weeks, its administrator PricewaterhouseCoopers announced today. Game will close 16 Australian stores immediately and the remaining 15 within a few weeks.

In May, Game Australia entered voluntary administration; it shuttered 60 stores, affecting 264 employees, and cut 17 head office positions. Before any closures, Game had an estimated 500 employees in Australia.

"This is a difficult time for employees, and closing the stores was not a decision we made easily," Warwick said of Game Australia's complete closure (and the ones in May). "Despite exploring available opportunities for continued trading, the ongoing trading performance and absence of viable offers for the purchase of the business has resulted in these closures."

Game Australia is running discounts in a final closing-down sale online and in its remaining stores.

JoystiqGame Australia to close all of its stores in the coming weeks originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Jun 2012 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsadministrationclosuredsgamegame-australiakinectmicrosoftmovenintendoplaystationplaystation-vitaPricewaterhouseCoopersps3pspPWCsonyvitawiixboxWed, 20 Jun 2012 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[THQ shuts down publishing in Italy and Spain [Update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/19/thq-shuts-down-publishing-in-italy-and-spain/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/19/thq-shuts-down-publishing-in-italy-and-spain/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/19/thq-shuts-down-publishing-in-italy-and-spain/#comments THQ shuts down selfpublishing in Italy and SpainTHQ has closed its offices in Italy and Spain and hired an outside distributor, Koch Media, to ship its games throughout those regions instead. The closures follow a "strategic review" of THQ's operations in Italy and Spain, according to Annie Sullivan, THQ's managing director of European market development.

"We were looking for a distribution partner who has the most effective networks locally to market THQ's products," Sullivan said. "I'm excited for the opportunities that THQ's partnership with Koch Media represents and am looking forward to working together on successful launches of our forthcoming products."

We have contacted THQ for more information on the European closures.

Update: THQ has responded, noting that these are not "new" actions, but are new distributor agreements in Spain and Italy: "As part of the previously announced restructuring of its global publishing business, THQ made changes to its publishing operations in Europe. As a result of those changes, the company will now utilize Koch Media as its publishing distributor in Spain. In Italy, the company continues to utilize a distribution company, and a new agreement is in place with Koch Media for that region.

"These are not new actions, just updates on previous decisions and new agreements with specific territory distribution partners."

JoystiqTHQ shuts down publishing in Italy and Spain [Update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Jun 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>closureclosuresitalyKoch-mediamicrosoftpcplaystationps3spainTHQxboxTue, 19 Jun 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[60 GAME Australia stores to close]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/26/60-game-australia-stores-to-close/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/26/60-game-australia-stores-to-close/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/26/60-game-australia-stores-to-close/#comments GAME Australia administrators announced plans to close 60 retail stores at the cost of 264 jobs, GamesIndustry International reported Friday. An additional 17 head office positions will be terminated at the company.

In a media release, Kate Warwick of PricewaterhouseCoopers said, "this is a difficult time for employees and closing the stores was not a decision we made easily. However it is not financially viable to continue to operate at this level at this time." Warwick was appointed as voluntary administrator of GAME Australia on May 14.

The Australian Financial Review posted a list of the 60 stores that have closed.

Joystiq60 GAME Australia stores to close originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 26 May 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiaclosuregamegame-australiaretailSat, 26 May 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[38 Studios and Big Huge Games lay off entire staffs [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/38-studios-and-big-huge-games-lay-off-entire-staffs/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/38-studios-and-big-huge-games-lay-off-entire-staffs/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/38-studios-and-big-huge-games-lay-off-entire-staffs/#comments 38 Studios and Big Huge Games have both let go of their entire staffs, a source with knowledge of the situation tells Joystiq. Following reports that 38 Studios stopped paying staff on May 1, and just an hour before a scheduled press conference in Rhode Island addressing the recent 38 Studios financial debacle, both the Providence, RI-based 38 Studios and the Baltimore, MD-based Big Huge Games are no more.

"Big Huge Games was home for my wife and me for our adult lives so far. I'll miss it terribly, but so proud. Good night and good luck," former Big Huge Games lead world designer Colin Campbell said on his Twitter account. Big Huge's latest release was the moderately successful Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning. The studio was picked up by 38 Studios back in 2009, and it crafted the first entry in 38's ambitious new universe: Amalur.

The recent financial tumult arose following a defaulted payment from 38 Studios to the Rhode Island state government on May 1, indicating much larger financial issues that could ultimately lead to Rhode Island taxpayers owing up to $112.6 million between 2013 and 2020. It's unclear whether today's layoffs mean 38 Studios is unable to pay back the approximately $50 million its owes Rhode Island of a planed $75 million loan. If that's the case, Rhode Island will take over ownership of the Amalur IP, valued at around $20 million.

We expect to hear more at a scheduled press conference this evening held by Rhode Island Governor Lincoln Chafee.

Update: WPRI got ahold of the internal memo to employees at 38 Studios, which reads: "The Company is experiencing an economic downturn. To avoid further losses and possibility of retrenchment, the Company has decided that a companywide lay off is absolutely necessary. These layoffs are non-voluntary and non-disciplinary. This is your official notice of lay off, effective today, Thursday, May 24th, 2012." Big Huge Games and 38 Studios collectively employed 379 full-timers as of March 15, according to the report.

Joystiq38 Studios and Big Huge Games lay off entire staffs [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 May 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studiosbig-huge-gamesclosurelayoffslincoln-chafeerhode-islandThu, 24 May 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Closure review: Go into the light]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/closure-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/closure-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/closure-review/#comments Light is a fundamental part of existence. It pulls forms out of the dark, giving them shape, distance and color. Without light, everything we know would perish, leaving behind a barren, invisible world. Closure takes the fundamental nature of light one step further: where there is no light, there is oblivion.

Continue reading Closure review: Go into the light

JoystiqClosure review: Go into the light originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Mar 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>closureeyebrow-interactiveplaystationps3psnThu, 29 Mar 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSN Tuesday: Closure, final week of Spring Fever sale]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/psn-tuesday-closure-final-week-of-spring-fever-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/psn-tuesday-closure-final-week-of-spring-fever-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/psn-tuesday-closure-final-week-of-spring-fever-sale/#comments Headlining this week's PlayStation Store update is Closure, the winner of the 2012 Indie Game Challenge at DICE. It's joined by PS Vita game Supremacy MMA and the free video editing app, PlayMemories Studio.

This is the final week of the Spring Fever sale, so if you're looking to snag some Tom Clancy games on the cheap just about all of 'em are on sale. Hit the source link for the full list of this week's goodies.

JoystiqPSN Tuesday: Closure, final week of Spring Fever sale originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 Mar 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>closuremoveplaystationplaystation-vitaps3psn-tuesdaypspsonyspring-fever-2012vitaTue, 27 Mar 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Closure comes to PSN on March 27]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/closure-comes-to-psn-on-march-27/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/closure-comes-to-psn-on-march-27/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/closure-comes-to-psn-on-march-27/#comments
A year ago, a headline like that would likely have been about the closure of the service; today, however, it marks unequivocally positive news. Closure, this year's Indie Game Challenge winner, will be released on PSN for PlayStation 3 March 27.

Closure takes place in a monochrome world in where if you can't see something, it doesn't exist. That means you must find a light source in order to even have somewhere to walk. And, in keeping with the concept of visibility, you can make the game real for you by watching this cool new trailer.

JoystiqClosure comes to PSN on March 27 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Mar 2012 14:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>closureeyebrow-interactiveplaystationps3psnrelease-dateThu, 15 Mar 2012 14:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Closure wins 2012 Indie Game Challenge at DICE]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/10/closure-wins-2012-indie-game-challenge-at-dice/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/10/closure-wins-2012-indie-game-challenge-at-dice/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/10/closure-wins-2012-indie-game-challenge-at-dice/#comments Closure won the third annual Indie Game Challenge at this year's DICE show in Las Vegas. The clever puzzle platformer, which works off the premise that only illuminated objects exist in the game world, has players manipulating lights to solve challenge rooms. The team will receive $100,000 for taking the top prize, sponsored by The Guildhall at SMU, GameStop and the AIAS. The game will be available soon on PSN.

Other category winners included Symphony for technical achievement, The Bridge for achievements in art direction and gameplay, and Nitronic Rush received the "Gamer's Choice Award." The teams receive $2,500 for each category.

Check out all ten of this year's talented nominees by heading over to the Indie Game Challenge site.

JoystiqClosure wins 2012 Indie Game Challenge at DICE originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 18:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aiasclosuredice-2012gamestopindie-game-challengeplaystationps3Fri, 10 Feb 2012 18:45:00 EST<![CDATA[European retailer Game puts a plaster over its money wound]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/european-retailer-game-puts-a-plaster-over-its-money-wound/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/european-retailer-game-puts-a-plaster-over-its-money-wound/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/european-retailer-game-puts-a-plaster-over-its-money-wound/#comments Earlier this week Game met with lenders to discuss its credit problems and options for staying in business, and now Game reports it will operate "with lower limits" and under "revised terms for its facilities." As of November 2011, Game had 1,275 stores in Europe and Australia, but has hinted that it could sell off more than half of its overseas locations, and it plans to close 60 stores by 2013. It closed 39 locations last year.

Game's economic problems aren't an issue solely for retailers, but can affect the larger gaming industry as well -- both EA and Take-Two discussed Game's position during their Q3 financial calls.

JoystiqEuropean retailer Game puts a plaster over its money wound originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsaustraliaclosuredseuropefinancialgamemicrosoftnintendopcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3pspretailsonyvitawiixboxFri, 03 Feb 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 still in development, GSC seeking funds to continue]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/s-t-a-l-k-e-r-2-still-in-development-gsc-seeking-funds-to-cont/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/s-t-a-l-k-e-r-2-still-in-development-gsc-seeking-funds-to-cont/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/s-t-a-l-k-e-r-2-still-in-development-gsc-seeking-funds-to-cont/#comments S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 is still in development, GSC Game World announced via the official S.T.A.L.K.E.R. Facebook page, writing, "The Stalker team is extremely happy! Why? Because we are continuing work on Stalker 2 after the holidays." GSC is celebrating, for now -- spokesperson Oleg Yavorsky said GSC is still seeking funding to support S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2, according to a statement published by Edge.

"We are hopeful things turn out well eventually," Yavorsky said. "The team really wants to see S.T.A.L.K.E.R. continue."

In December, GSC responded to rumors that it would be shut down, saying that there was cause for hope and to await news in January. Things seem to be going well at the moment, but we have contacted GSC for clarification on its financial situation and the continued development of S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2.

JoystiqS.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 still in development, GSC seeking funds to continue originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Jan 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>closureGSC-Game-Worldoleg-yavorskypcstalker-2Thu, 12 Jan 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: EA shuts down Bright Light after consultation process]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/05/report-ea-shuts-down-bright-light-after-consultation-process/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/05/report-ea-shuts-down-bright-light-after-consultation-process/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/05/report-ea-shuts-down-bright-light-after-consultation-process/#comments EA's Bright Light Studio in the UK has been officially shuttered, Develop reports. In October Bright Light was in the midst of a formal consultation process, a period of time required by UK law before a company can shut down completely, dependent on how many employees it has. Bright Light, responsible for three of the most recent Harry Potter games, closed late in 2010, Develop says.

EA said previously that it would consider Bright Light employees for positions at other EA Studios, and Develop reports some have indeed moved to EA's Criterion and Playfish, while others have joined nearby studios Jagex and Supermassive Games.

We have contacted EA for confirmation on the closure.

JoystiqReport: EA shuts down Bright Light after consultation process originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Jan 2012 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bright-lightclosuredsEAElectronic-Artsharry-potter-and-the-deathly-hallows-part-2microsoftnintendopcplaystationps3ukwiixboxThu, 05 Jan 2012 19:45:00 EST<![CDATA[S.T.A.L.K.E.R. devs: 'There is cause for hope,' more news in January]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/23/s-t-a-l-k-e-r-devs-there-is-cause-for-hope-more-news-in-jan/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/23/s-t-a-l-k-e-r-devs-there-is-cause-for-hope-more-news-in-jan/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/23/s-t-a-l-k-e-r-devs-there-is-cause-for-hope-more-news-in-jan/#comments GSC Game World, developer of the S.T.A.L.K.E.R. series, was rumored to have shut down earlier this month, a move that would have affected roughly 45 employees. However, GSC still appears to be alive and kicking wiggling its legs slightly, announcing via Twitter that "there is cause for hope!"

In the same tweet, GSC said it "will not be releasing any official news until around mid January," which suggests the studio will still be running in some capacity at least until then. GSC was developing S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2, and we can only hope for some good news in January from the studio.

JoystiqS.T.A.L.K.E.R. devs: 'There is cause for hope,' more news in January originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 Dec 2011 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>closureGSC-Game-Worldhopelayoffspcs.t.a.l.k.e.r.stalker-2Fri, 23 Dec 2011 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 dev on closure reports: 'nothing is certain']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/13/s-t-a-l-k-e-r-2-dev-on-closure-reports-nothing-is-certain/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/13/s-t-a-l-k-e-r-2-dev-on-closure-reports-nothing-is-certain/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/13/s-t-a-l-k-e-r-2-dev-on-closure-reports-nothing-is-certain/#comments It appears as though S.T.A.L.K.E.R. franchise dev GSC Game World may not be giving up, at least not yet, with an ambiguous Twitter message from the company's official feed stating, "We will do our best to continue. However, at this point, nothing is certain."

Last last week when reports of GSC's closure were still fresh, the feed reportedly had a message which read, "No we have not closed GSC or cancelled," but it was said to be deleted soon after, according to Edge. A followup missive from the company notes that the website "will continue, with the forum and tech support." Additionally, the GSC shop will apparently carry on "until the nearest planned items sell out."

While the company may not be entirely closed yet, these messages read like little more than the death rattle of a business on its last legs, sadly. Given the circumstances, it stands to reason that development of S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 has stopped, though its unclear what will happen to the IP. We wish the best for the approximately 45 employees said to be affected.

JoystiqS.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 dev on closure reports: 'nothing is certain' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Dec 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>closuregsc-gameworldpcshutteredstalker-2twitterukraineTue, 13 Dec 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Australian indie: From ratings systems to a boom of small studios, how AU will survive]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/13/australian-indie-from-ratings-systems-to-a-boom-of-small-studio/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/13/australian-indie-from-ratings-systems-to-a-boom-of-small-studio/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/13/australian-indie-from-ratings-systems-to-a-boom-of-small-studio/#comments Australia has one of the most lenient video-game-rating systems in the world.

No, really -- despite its reputation as an ultra-conservative, mature-rating hating government, "the reality is that many more games that are restricted to 17-year-olds in the U.S. or 18-year-olds in Europe are available without edit for 15-year-olds in Australia," said Chris Wright, former marketing head for THQ's two Australian studios, Blue Tongue and Studio Australia. "On balance, Australia is probably the most lenient country in the world for access to mature games."

No, really -- Wright was the man who presented Saints Row to the Australian classification board and he prepared plenty of ratings submissions in the country, both as head of THQ Asia Pacific and its two Australian studios. He knows the system, meaning he knows what it has and what it doesn't, such as an R18+ rating.

"I believe passionately that Australia needs an R18+ rating," Wright said. "But for me the R18+ rating is not about access to games, but parity with other entertainment forms and the acknowledgement of gaming as an adult pursuit. The R18+ rating will have a net effect of greater overall restrictions on access to games -- many games that would have previously been available to 15-year-olds will now only be available for 18-year-olds and above -- but will mean that a few games at the top end of the maturity scale are allowed to be released."

Legislation in Australia recently approved the R18+ rating (though it may take a few years to be enacted) and its Law Reform Commission is attempting to revamp the country's video-game rating system to acknowledge its adult audience. But recently, Australia has had more than ratings to worry about.

Continue reading Australian indie: From ratings systems to a boom of small studios, how AU will survive

JoystiqAustralian indie: From ratings systems to a boom of small studios, how AU will survive originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 13 Nov 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiaChris-WrightclosureDe-BlobDestroy-All-HumansIndieLA-Noirelayoffsmicrosoftmobilenintendopcplaystationps3ratingsSaints-RowTHQwiixboxSun, 13 Nov 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Closure preview: Try, try again]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/26/closure-preview-try-try-again/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/26/closure-preview-try-try-again/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/26/closure-preview-try-try-again/#comments Logic-based games are only compelling the first time you play them. At least, that's what Closure reboot developer Eyebrow Interactive thinks, and if you're only going to enjoy the game the first time through, they figure they'll make that trip as long and arduous as humanly possible.

It's an interesting (and completely apt) theory. Solutions are only satisfying the first time you divine them, that feeling of overwhelming bewilderment is only bewildering the first time you encounter it -- unless you have some kind of Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind memory-wiping machine, your second run through of your favorite puzzle game probably won't be as poignant as your first.

Continue reading Closure preview: Try, try again

JoystiqClosure preview: Try, try again originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Sep 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>closureeyebrow-interactiveplaystationps3psnSony-Online-EntertainmentMon, 26 Sep 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Disney moves to close Split/Second developer Black Rock]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/01/disney-moves-to-close-split-second-developer-black-rock/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/01/disney-moves-to-close-split-second-developer-black-rock/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/01/disney-moves-to-close-split-second-developer-black-rock/#comments Black Rock Studio, developer of Split/Second and Pure, will soon be blasted out of existence by the House of Mouse. In a statement provided to Eurogamer, Disney confirmed that none of the current projects at the studio were given the greenlight, and that employees had been told of an impending "consultation process" -- a 90-day phase under UK law warning of potential closure.

It's a sad end for a developer that deserved better. Pure and Split/Second were both critically acclaimed racing games that had a rough time finding an audience. Layoffs began at the studio several months back and a few of the top brass have already formed new outfits. Black Rock Studio's General Manager Tony Beckwith tells Joystiq he can't "comment at the moment" on the situation.

JoystiqDisney moves to close Split/Second developer Black Rock originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Jul 2011 10:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Black-Rockblack-rock-studioblack-rock-studiosclosureDisney-Interactivelayoffsmicrosoftplaystationps3Split-SecondxboxFri, 01 Jul 2011 10:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Bizarre fell into 'making games to fill slots,' says ex-creative director]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/06/bizarre-fell-into-making-games-to-fill-slots/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/06/bizarre-fell-into-making-games-to-fill-slots/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/06/bizarre-fell-into-making-games-to-fill-slots/#comments Members of defunct developer Bizarre Creations recently provided Edge with more insight into what eventually led to the studio's shuttering. The general impression, beyond former design manager Gareth Wilson's reiteration of a "perfect storm of unfortunate circumstances," is that Bizarre's independent culture began to deteriorate following the Activision acquisition.

"We weren't an independent studio making 'our' games anymore," said former creative director Martyn Chudley. "We were making games to fill slots. Although we did all believe in them, they were more the products of committees and analysts. The culture we'd worked on for so long gradually eroded just enough so that it wasn't 'ours' anymore."

Chudley also claimed that the studio was given the opportunity to buy itself back, but as commercial manager Sarah Chudley explained it, the studio had grown considerably since the Activision takeover and "we just didn't have the skills, capability or finances to look after over 200 people." Without a third party coming in to assume control, it seemed wiser for everyone to walk away.

JoystiqBizarre fell into 'making games to fill slots,' says ex-creative director originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Apr 2011 12:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActivisionActivision-BlizzardBizarreBizarre-CreationsBlurclosuremicrosoftnintendoplaystationps3wiixboxWed, 06 Apr 2011 12:35:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE confirms studio closures, cancels The Agency]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/soe-confirms-studio-closures-cancels-the-agency/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/soe-confirms-studio-closures-cancels-the-agency/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/soe-confirms-studio-closures-cancels-the-agency/#comments Following earlier reports of studio closures and mass layoffs, Sony Online Entertainment has issued an official statement regarding its "strategic decision to reduce costs and streamline its global workforce." The company confirmed the closings of its Denver, Seattle and Tucson studios and the elimination of 205 jobs.

Additionally, SOE announced the cancellation of The Agency, the long-delayed, cross-platform spy MMO under development at SOE Seattle. The company said it's discontinuing production of the title to "focus development resources on delivering two new MMOs based on its renowned PlanetSide and EverQuest properties, while also maintaining its current portfolio of online games."

SOE added that the Denver and Tucson studios' projects would be transitioned over to its San Diego headquarters. The company's full statement is posted after the break.

Continue reading SOE confirms studio closures, cancels The Agency

JoystiqSOE confirms studio closures, cancels The Agency originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 31 Mar 2011 14:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>canceledcancellationclosureeverquestlayoffspcplanetsideplaystationps3soesoe-denversoe-seattlesoe-tucsonsony-online-entertainmentthe-agencyThu, 31 Mar 2011 14:52:00 EST<![CDATA[Pi Studios reportedly shuttered, ex-staff form Category 6 Studios [update: Pi Studios status unclear]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/pi-studios-reportedly-shuttered-ex-staff-form-category-6-studio/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/pi-studios-reportedly-shuttered-ex-staff-form-category-6-studio/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/pi-studios-reportedly-shuttered-ex-staff-form-category-6-studio/#comments Houston-based game developer Pi Studios has closed its doors, reports Big Download via a reliable source. The studio had a hand in several notable titles, including Call of Duty 2, Call of Duty: World at War, Wolfenstein and the PS2 and Wii versions of several Rock Band games. Most recently, the studio was working on Bonk: Brink of Extinction, the 3DS version of which was reportedly canceled earlier this month. Assuming the report of the studio's closure is accurate, the XBLA, WiiWare, and PSN versions are presumably canceled as well.

Prior to today's report, several former members of Pi Studios recently formed Category 6 Studios, led by Kenn Hoekstra. The new company today announced its first title, Blackout, an Unreal Engine-powered survival horror game in development for Xbox 360, PS3 and PC.

Update: Additional investigation by Big Download and Joystiq has uncovered conflicting reports as to the operational status of the Pi Studios business. Pi Studios may still be operational but the extent of its operations remains unclear. Joystiq has once again reached out to Pi Studios for an official response."

JoystiqPi Studios reportedly shuttered, ex-staff form Category 6 Studios [update: Pi Studios status unclear] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 31 Mar 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blackoutcategory-6-studiosclosuremicrosoftpcpi-studiosplaystationps3xboxThu, 31 Mar 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Three SOE studios close, layoffs abound]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/report-three-soe-studios-close-layoffs-abound/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/report-three-soe-studios-close-layoffs-abound/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/report-three-soe-studios-close-layoffs-abound/#comments Following a series of tweets from George Broussard, co-owner of 3D Realms, which indicated that Sony Online Entertainment would be undergoing layoffs and possible studio closures around its five locations today, Kotaku reports that a source "familiar with the matter" has confirmed the closures of SOE's Denver, Seattle and Tucson studios. Additionally, half of the Austin staff has been reportedly laid off, along with a "sizeable" number of workers at SOE's San Diego headquarters. In all, the layoffs are said to affect nearly one-third of SOE's total workforce.

Notably, SOE Seattle has been the lead development studio of The Agency, which had been slated to launch in the second half of the year (after a long delay). Neither SOE Denver nor Tucson has been working on anything as high profile as The Agency, though both have continued to operate a number of SOE titles, including Denver's Legends Of Norrath and other digital card games, and Tucson's PoxNora strategy game.U

Update: SOE has issued an official statement confirming the report and providing further details.

JoystiqReport: Three SOE studios close, layoffs abound originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 31 Mar 2011 11:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>closuregeorge-broussardlayoffspcplaystationps3soesoe-austinsoe-denversoe-san-diegosoe-seatllesoe-tucsonsony-online-entertainmentthe-agencyThu, 31 Mar 2011 11:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Bizarre Creations farewell video is legitimately sad]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/18/bizarre-creations-farewell-video-is-legitimately-sad/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/18/bizarre-creations-farewell-video-is-legitimately-sad/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/18/bizarre-creations-farewell-video-is-legitimately-sad/#comments We wouldn't check out the video after the jump if you're planning on having a day of unbridled happiness and positivity. It's Bizarre Creations' farewell video, released today, the last day of the studio's existence -- and, as you might imagine, it's super poignant and sad. We'll miss you, Bizarre!

Continue reading Bizarre Creations farewell video is legitimately sad

JoystiqBizarre Creations farewell video is legitimately sad originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Feb 2011 10:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActivisionBizarre-creationsClosureGeometry-warsGeometry-wars-retro-evolvedMicrosoftPcPlaystationPs3ShutdownXboxFri, 18 Feb 2011 10:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Bizarre Creations closes its doors this Friday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/14/bizarre-creations-closes-its-doors-this-friday/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/14/bizarre-creations-closes-its-doors-this-friday/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/14/bizarre-creations-closes-its-doors-this-friday/#comments Though Activision's recent decisions will result in the wholesale freezing of a number of its business units, let's not forget one developer that was sentenced to a similar fate last November: Bizarre Creations. According to Develop, the studio will permanently shutter the doors of its Liverpool studio this coming Friday, February 18.

We know this is kind of bummer news to share with you on Valentine's Day, but let's look at it this way: Here's a chance for us to talk about all our favorite Bizarre titles! (What's that? Cho Aniki Zero? No, no -- Bizarre Creations titles.) Feel free to use the comments to send a little love out to this deserving developer.

Continue reading Bizarre Creations closes its doors this Friday

JoystiqBizarre Creations closes its doors this Friday originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Feb 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionbizarre-creationsclosureshutdownMon, 14 Feb 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[7 Studios shut down, part of Activision music game cutback, staff report]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/10/7-studios-shut-down-part-of-activision-music-game-cutback-staf/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/10/7-studios-shut-down-part-of-activision-music-game-cutback-staf/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/10/7-studios-shut-down-part-of-activision-music-game-cutback-staf/#comments 7 Studios, part of Activision's music game division, has been shut down, according to staff posting on Twitter. Following Activision's announcement yesterday that its Guitar Hero business unit would be disbanded and no new music games would be released this year, 7 Studios producer Damon Conn tweeted, "Directly affected me. Our music games division really took a hit today."

"Activision is shutting down the Guitar Hero business as of today. This includes my studio," another 7 Studios staff member named Alex confirmed last night on Twitter, "Anyone know of any open associate producer jobs?" (This appears to be the Twitter account of 7 Studios' Alex Beckers, who has updated his LinkedIn profile to reflect the end of his employment at the studio. [Update: Beckers has confirmed his Twitter identity.])

"Lame day, but [I'm] optimistic about the future [and] wish the best to all my current/former colleagues," added 7 Studios creative director Dan Lehrich on his Twitter account. "Good luck to all, let me know if I can help." Lehrich later exchanged tweets with Beckers in a heartfelt goodbye.

7 Studios was acquired by Activision in early 2009, an action that launched a still-ongoing series of lawsuits with publisher Genius Products, which had contracted 7 Studios to create Scratch: The Ultimate DJ (pictured) before Activision stepped in and scooped up the studio (halting Scratch's development). In October 2009, Activision reportedly reduced 7 Studios' staff by half, leaving the developer with approximately 30 employees (LinkedIn currently lists 36).

7 Studios was assumed to be the DJ Hero "B-team," supporting Freestyle Games as needed, including work on DJ Hero 2. "I can't tell you what they're doing, but they're doing some cool stuff," Activision exec Dave Stohl told us last July. "They have supported FreeStyle a little bit, but they're doing something new and different." According to Lehrich's LinkedIn page, 7 Studios was involved in the creation of the Guitar Hero VIP Pass DLC hub, in addition to "Unannounced Projects" for iOS and "Various Prototypes/Concepts" for a number of platforms.

Both Conn and Beckers additionally list involvement in last year's Space Camp.

Update: A source close to the situation, who wishes to remain anonymous, tells us that approximately half of 7 Studios' staff members were immediately laid off and will receive sixty days worth of severance pay. The remaining staff are apparently directly involved with the aforementioned lawsuits, which are reported to go to trial next month. Allegedly, these staff will be paid for the next 120 days, which is expected to cover the time it takes to resolve the legal dispute with Genius Products. The source additionally confirmed that 7 Studios had been working on a few music-related iOS games.

Joystiq7 Studios shut down, part of Activision music game cutback, staff report originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Feb 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7-studiosactivisionclosuredamon-conndan-lehrichdj-hero-2guitar-hero-riplayoffsmicrosoftmobilemusicmusic-gamesnintendoplaystationps3shutdownspace-campwiixboxThu, 10 Feb 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Indie darling Closure gets a facelift for commercial release]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/04/indie-darling-closure-gets-a-facelift-for-commercial-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/04/indie-darling-closure-gets-a-facelift-for-commercial-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/04/indie-darling-closure-gets-a-facelift-for-commercial-release/#comments Did Tyler Glaiel's wonderful, browser-based puzzler Closure engender a little ill will from you after you learned about its pending commercial release? Easy, tiger. The IGF Award winner has received a major cosmetic overhaul to prepare for its retail launch, the results of which are posted below.

Continue reading Indie darling Closure gets a facelift for commercial release

JoystiqIndie darling Closure gets a facelift for commercial release originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Feb 2011 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>closureindiepctyler-glaielFri, 04 Feb 2011 16:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Propaganda Games shuttered]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/19/propaganda-games-shuttered/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/19/propaganda-games-shuttered/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/19/propaganda-games-shuttered/#comments Propaganda Games -- developer of 2008's Turok reboot and, most recently, Tron: Evolution -- is officially closed. Parent company and publisher Disney Interactive confirmed the unfortunate news to Joystiq this afternoon, issuing this statement: "Disney Interactive Studios confirms the closure of its Vancouver-based internal game development studio, Propaganda Games. The studio has completed all work associated with its most recent project."

Propaganda's Pirates of the Caribbean game was canceled last October, and the studio was reduced in size, with the only apparent goal to complete Tron and its planned post-launch DLC. It's as yet unclear if any more DLC will be released beyond the day-one freebie.

[Thanks, Alex]

JoystiqPropaganda Games shuttered originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 Jan 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>closuredisney-interactivedisney-interactive-studioslayoffspirates-of-the-caribbean-armada-of-the-damnedpropaganda-gamesTron-EvolutionWed, 19 Jan 2011 16:00:00 EST