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[Crackdown 2 'Deluge' DLC overwhelms Pacific City]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/17/crackdown-2-deluge-dlc-overwhelms-pacific-city/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/17/crackdown-2-deluge-dlc-overwhelms-pacific-city/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/17/crackdown-2-deluge-dlc-overwhelms-pacific-city/#comments The new "Deluge" DLC for Crackdown 2 adds a co-op arcade mode where players must protect designated city zones from Pacific City's worst. It'll set Agents back 560 points ($7) and also adds several Achievements, Avatar awards and a "Capture the Orb" mode for up to 16 players, spanning six arenas.

Continue reading Crackdown 2 'Deluge' DLC overwhelms Pacific City

JoystiqCrackdown 2 'Deluge' DLC overwhelms Pacific City originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Nov 2010 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crackdown-2delugedeluge-dlcdlcmicrosoftRiot-Act-2ruffian-gamesxblmxboxWed, 17 Nov 2010 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Expect a 'Deluge' of Crackdown 2 DLC, Windows Phone 7 tie-in this month]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/01/expect-a-deluge-of-crackdown-2-dlc-windows-phone-7-tie-in-thi/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/01/expect-a-deluge-of-crackdown-2-dlc-windows-phone-7-tie-in-thi/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/01/expect-a-deluge-of-crackdown-2-dlc-windows-phone-7-tie-in-thi/#comments Microsoft has announced that a new batch of Crackdown 2 DLC will be released later this month. The "Deluge" add-on will add two new multiplayer modes to the game, as well as new Achievements and Avatar Awards. Deluge mode is a new co-op mode that sees up to four players defending "against increasingly more challenging waves of denizens from Pacific City." Meanwhile, Capture the Orb is a new adversarial mode for up to 16 players. Presumably -- and this is just a hunch -- players compete to capture the orb.

Interestingly, the DLC will be offered in both trial and premium versions. The free trial version will include the complete Capture the Orb mode and a single-player "sample" of Deluge mode. For 560 MS Points ($7), the premium version includes the full Deluge mode as well as the aforementioned goodies.

Microsoft is also planning to release a Windows Phone 7 tie-in project later this month. Entitled Crackdown: Project Sunburst, the game offers up tower defense gameplay utilizing Bing Maps. Playing Project Sunburst will unlock new features in Deluge mode and, conversely, Deluge mode will unlock new weapons in the mobile game. The press release notes that this is the first time such integration has been seen between Xbox Live and Windows Phone 7. Assuming the platform takes off, we doubt it will be the last.

Gallery: Crackdown 2 (Deluge DLC)

Continue reading Expect a 'Deluge' of Crackdown 2 DLC, Windows Phone 7 tie-in this month

JoystiqExpect a 'Deluge' of Crackdown 2 DLC, Windows Phone 7 tie-in this month originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 01 Nov 2010 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crackdown-2DelugedlcmicrosoftMicrosoft-Game-StudiosmobileRiot-Act-2Ruffian-GamesWindows-Phone-7xboxMon, 01 Nov 2010 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Crackdown 2 'Toy Box' DLC crashing issues resolved by reissue]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/05/crackdown-2-toy-box-dlc-crashing-issues-resolved-by-reissue/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/05/crackdown-2-toy-box-dlc-crashing-issues-resolved-by-reissue/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/05/crackdown-2-toy-box-dlc-crashing-issues-resolved-by-reissue/#commentsFiled under: , ,

A new, bug-free version of Crackdown 2's "Toy Box" DLC pack was released yesterday morning on Xbox Live Marketplace, according to Ruffian Games. Unfortunately, rather than a patch, the DLC has been re-issued, meaning that folks who downloaded the content will need to delete it and redownload. The new version fixes issues ranging from "crash on loading" to issues with the narrator's voice and Achievement problems, which we reported on earlier this week.

Ruffian says that the glitches were "caused by problems mastering the DLC package," thus the reissue rather than a patch. The developer assures players that "all will be fine" after the download, which was available publicly as of yesterday morning. We've yet to hear of any issues with the re-release, but feel free to let us know if you find any.

JoystiqCrackdown 2 'Toy Box' DLC crashing issues resolved by reissue originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 05 Sep 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crackdown-2dlcmicrosoftpatchRiot-Act-2ruffianruffian-gamestoy-boxxboxSun, 05 Sep 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Crackdown 2 players report crashing issues with 'Toy Box' DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/03/crackdown-2-players-report-crashing-issues-with-toy-box-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/03/crackdown-2-players-report-crashing-issues-with-toy-box-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/03/crackdown-2-players-report-crashing-issues-with-toy-box-dlc/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Looks like its time to throw another victim on the pile of DLC which crashes the game upon which it's intended to expand. This time around, it's Crackdown 2's recently released "Toy Box" pack, which is supposed to add the "Keys to the City" mode from the first game, as well as a handful of new weapons and items. According to a number of angry commenters on Xbox.com, the 560 Microsoft Point ($7) download doesn't add this content as much as it ... well, removes everything else.

For reasons unknown, a large number of players report that the game simply freezes up when trying to play after having downloaded the "Toy Box" pack. Some users report that clearing the system's cache and playing offline allows the game to load, but connecting to Live and downloading the game's latest update returns it to its non-functioning state. We've contacted Microsoft to find out what the problem is, and when we can expect a fix. You might want to consider keeping the "Toy Box" firmly closed for the time being.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in!]

JoystiqCrackdown 2 players report crashing issues with 'Toy Box' DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Sep 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bugsCrackdown-2dlcglitchmicrosoftMicrosoft-Game-Studiosruffian-gamestoy-boxxboxFri, 03 Sep 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Crackdown 2 'Toy Box' DLC trailer gives us a taste of what's to come]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/01/crackdown-2-toy-box-dlc-trailer-gives-us-a-taste-of-whats-to/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/01/crackdown-2-toy-box-dlc-trailer-gives-us-a-taste-of-whats-to/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/01/crackdown-2-toy-box-dlc-trailer-gives-us-a-taste-of-whats-to/#comments In today's fast-paced world, we don't always have time to read everything. You've got things to do, places to be -- you expect a high quality video showing you what will be available in an upcoming DLC pack. That's why we've posted this video showcasing Crackdown 2's "Toy Box" DLC. You're welcome!

Continue reading Crackdown 2 'Toy Box' DLC trailer gives us a taste of what's to come

JoystiqCrackdown 2 'Toy Box' DLC trailer gives us a taste of what's to come originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Sep 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crackdown-2dlcmicrosoftMicrosoft-Game-StudiosRiot-Act-2ruffian-gamestoy-boxxboxWed, 01 Sep 2010 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Crackdown 2's 'Toy Box' DLC hits the streets on September 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/31/crackdown-2-toy-box-dlc-release-date/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/31/crackdown-2-toy-box-dlc-release-date/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/31/crackdown-2-toy-box-dlc-release-date/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Anxious to 'splode more stuff in Crackdown 2? Well, on September 2, you'll be able to access the "Toy Box" DLC pack. The DLC will come in two different flavors: as a free download, players can access the "Keys to the City" cheat unlock, the "Thruster" ability and a new multiplayer mode called "Vehicle Tag;" or agents can shell out 560 MS Points ($7) for an enhanced version including five new weapons, two new vehicles, a couple of Avatar items and 10 additional Achievements to unlock.

JoystiqCrackdown 2's 'Toy Box' DLC hits the streets on September 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 31 Aug 2010 12:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crackdown-2dlcmicrosoftRiot-Act-2ruffian-gamestoy-boxxboxTue, 31 Aug 2010 12:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Crackdown 2's 'Toy Box' DLC handing over keys to Pacific City]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/23/crackdown-2s-toy-box-dlc-handing-over-keys-to-pacific-city/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/23/crackdown-2s-toy-box-dlc-handing-over-keys-to-pacific-city/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/23/crackdown-2s-toy-box-dlc-handing-over-keys-to-pacific-city/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Ruffian Games is making good on last month's promise of Crackdown 2 DLC, with the announcement this morning of a forthcoming add-on for the game titled "Toy Box." The free version of the content pack will come with a rethought "Keys to the City" cheat unlock, the "Thruster" ability (described as "jetpacks for your boots") and a new multiplayer mode -- "Vehicle Tag."

For those of you willing to shell out 560 MS Points ($7), the pack also contains five new weapons, two new vehicles, a couple of Avatar items, and 10 new Cheevos. Are you keen on dressing up your agent in various colorful suits? Who isn't? The paid version of the pack additionally contains eight fancy new outfits, with ambiguous names like "Terror Firma" (also our second favorite Doctor Who spinoff) and "Dem Apples." The pack is said to be "coming soon," though a solid date hasn't been given for release. We do have a trailer of the content in action, just after the break. [Correction: The video documentary was unrelated to the DLC. We've posted a Youtube trailer of the new content after the break. Thanks, Ryan!]

Continue reading Crackdown 2's 'Toy Box' DLC handing over keys to Pacific City

JoystiqCrackdown 2's 'Toy Box' DLC handing over keys to Pacific City originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Aug 2010 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crackdown-2dlcmicrosoftmicrosoft-game-studiosRiot-Act-2ruffianruffian-gamestoy-boxxboxMon, 23 Aug 2010 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Crackdown 2 holds on to top UK sales spot; Xbox 360 S has solid launch]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/19/crackdown-2-holds-on-to-top-uk-sales-spot-xbox-360-s-has-solid/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/19/crackdown-2-holds-on-to-top-uk-sales-spot-xbox-360-s-has-solid/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/19/crackdown-2-holds-on-to-top-uk-sales-spot-xbox-360-s-has-solid/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Crackdown 2 just barely held off Dance on Broadway last week to maintain the top spot on the UK all formats chart for a second week in a row. According to Chart-Track, "Orb Collector 2" sales dropped 36 percent and only sold about 800 units more than Ubisoft's show tune-themed Just Dance successor (the original Just Dance retained a supporting role in the ten spot). Lego Harry Potter: Years 1-4 and Red Dead Redemption each slipped one spot to third and fourth, respectively. The lone new entry in the top ten was Disney's Toy Story 3 in fifth place.

In hardware sales, although Chart-Track didn't reveal specific numbers, the Xbox 360 Slim (or Short) enjoyed the UK's most successful launch for a "revised" console. The redesigned console surpassed the relaunches of both the PS2 and PS3 slim models and, in its opening weekend, matched the regional launch figures of the Pro and Core Xbox 360 SKUs from back in late 2005.

Continue reading Crackdown 2 holds on to top UK sales spot; Xbox 360 S has solid launch

JoystiqCrackdown 2 holds on to top UK sales spot; Xbox 360 S has solid launch originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Jul 2010 12:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>britainchart-trackCrackdown-2Dance-on-Broadwayhardwarelego-harry-potterlego-harry-potter-years-1-4microsoftnintendoplaystationps3Riot-Act-2salessoftwareukwiixboxxbox-360-slimMon, 19 Jul 2010 12:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Crackdown 2 jumps to top of UK charts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/12/crackdown-2-jumps-to-top-of-uk-charts/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/12/crackdown-2-jumps-to-top-of-uk-charts/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/12/crackdown-2-jumps-to-top-of-uk-charts/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Crackdown 2 has broken the "petrificus totalus" spell cast upon the UK sales charts for the last couple weeks. Skills for broken spells, agent? Ruffian's compulsive orb-collecting sequel leaped ahead of Lego Harry Potter: Years 1-4 and Red Dead Redemption, which found comfortable homes on the range at second and third, respectively.

Ubisoft's Just Dance took its greatest tumble to date, dropping all the way down to ninth place -- most likely because everyone in the UK already owns it. However, proving that Just Dance wasn't a singular sensation for the publisher, newcomer Dance on Broadway steps up from sixth to fourth. Check out the UK top ten after the break.

Continue reading Crackdown 2 jumps to top of UK charts

JoystiqCrackdown 2 jumps to top of UK charts originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Jul 2010 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chart-trackCrackdown-2lego-harry-potterlego-harry-potter-years-1-4microsoftnintendoplaystationps3red-dead-redemptionRiot-Act-2ukwiixboxMon, 12 Jul 2010 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Two Crackdown 2 DLC packs teased]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/07/two-crackdown-2-dlc-packs-teased/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/07/two-crackdown-2-dlc-packs-teased/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/07/two-crackdown-2-dlc-packs-teased/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We might not have loved Crackdown 2 as much as anticipated, but we're glad to see that's not stopping developer Ruffian Games from supporting the game post-launch with downloadable content. Speaking to MTV Multiplayer, producer James Cope revealed two (tentatively titled) packs already planned for release: "The Toy Box" and "Deluge." According to Cope, The Toy Box will be available first and features "new gadgets and vehicles," as well as opening up Pacific City in the same way that the first game's "Keys to the City" mode did.

Next will be the Deluge pack, which will contain "new game modes to expand the play" -- Cope says the team at Ruffian is aiming for "a completely new way to play the game you've already got." No release prices or dates were given for the DLC add-ons, though, presumably Crackdown 2 owners are still plenty occupied collecting all of them orbs. It's a hunger that can't be satisfied, folks!

JoystiqTwo Crackdown 2 DLC packs teased originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Jul 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crackdown-2delugedlcjames-copemicrosoftRiot-Act-2ruffianruffian-gamesthe-toy-boxxboxWed, 07 Jul 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview: Crackdown 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/06/metareview-crackdown-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/06/metareview-crackdown-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/06/metareview-crackdown-2/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Crackdown 2 left us with the feeling we were missing something -- like, an entire sequel's worth of content. It appears we weren't alone for the most part. Then again, if you've got AOO (agility orb obsession), you'll be too busy to care. Chase down the review orb links below for the full content:
  • Eurogamer (80/100): "Besides, they're offset by everything that Ruffian gets right: the masterful way the developers have turned simple neighbourhoods into set-pieces; the moments where nightfall triggers neon signage that reveals a hidden pathway up the side of a skyscraper; the way in which a chain of seemingly random Agility Orbs picks out a perfect racing line of superhero bounds from one chimney to the next and off into the horizon."
  • IGN (75/100): "The new additions, specifically the expansion to four-player co-op, are welcome, but this hardly feels like it was worth the three-year wait. It's mostly just more of the same, in the same city, with the same shortcomings and a slightly expanded set of missions. Crackdown 2 feels uninspired and rushed, and it certainly doesn't feel like a full sequel."
  • Game Informer (73/100): "Yes, the fights with gang leaders got old after a while in the first game, but they instilled a sense of progress. Without them, you're just jumping around ruined versions of the same old places, tracking down nearly 1,000 orbs, and working through the same pair of "kill 'em all" story missions until the credits roll. Crackdown is still ripe for an ambitious sequel, but this Crackdown 2 thing clearly isn't it. What a squandered opportunity."
  • 1UP (B-): "There's no question that Crackdown 2 is a mere shadow of the first game, which stands as an absolute classic. The sequel feels more like an ambitious user mod than a true follow-up."
  • Giant Bomb (3/5) "There's a narrow subset of people that will absolutely love Crackdown 2 for it's "it ain't broke, so we didn't fix it" approach to sequel development. ... If you're in that group or if you're just looking for something absolutely mindless to do with a few online friends, Crackdown 2 is practically perfect for that."

Gallery: Crackdown 2 (E3)

JoystiqMetareview: Crackdown 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Jul 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crackdown-2microsoftRiot-Act-2ruffianruffian-gamesxboxTue, 06 Jul 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: Crackdown 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/05/review-crackdown-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/05/review-crackdown-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/05/review-crackdown-2/#comments As the always astute Chris Hecker once pointed out, the thing video games do best are power fantasies. While we're literally trying to rescue our family or kill the evil guy, the metaphorical (and arguably more important) journey is in watching our character grow from weakling to demigod, whether that's through the collection of the most powerful weapons or the fastest cars. The balance then is in making the literal journey just present enough that the metaphorical one means something.

For all its strengths, Crackdown's major failing was in not nailing this balance. Punching, jumping and exploding your way to superherodom was amazing, but the story and missions were so threadbare that there was nothing really pulling you through, there was no momentum. Though narrative was never going to be its strong suit, it needed just a few more breadcrumbs to get you from point A to point B.

Disappointingly, Crackdown 2 does not fix the balance between literal and metaphorical journey. In fact, it seems much more content to pretend it doesn't exist.

Gallery: Crackdown 2 (TGS 2009)

Continue reading Review: Crackdown 2

JoystiqReview: Crackdown 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Jul 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CrackdownCrackdown-2microsoftRiot-Act-2ruffian-gamesxboxMon, 05 Jul 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Crackdown 2 save unlocks Agent 4 in Perfect Dark multiplayer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/02/crackdown-2-save-unlocks-agent-4-in-perfect-dark-multiplayer/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/02/crackdown-2-save-unlocks-agent-4-in-perfect-dark-multiplayer/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/02/crackdown-2-save-unlocks-agent-4-in-perfect-dark-multiplayer/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We're now only days away from the release of Crackdown 2, and in a stroke of corporate synergy, Microsoft Game Studios has hatched a cross-game promotion between Ruffian's impending sandbox shooter and the recent HD remake of Perfect Dark for Xbox Live Arcade. With a Crackdown 2 save on your console, you can unlock a new playable character in Perfect Dark: Agent 4.

No codes, no impossible speed runs -- Agent 4 is unlocked in Perfect Dark's Combat Simulator (multiplayer mode) as soon as your Crackdown 2 save is detected. Happy hunting, agents!

Gallery: Agent 4 in Perfect Dark

JoystiqCrackdown 2 save unlocks Agent 4 in Perfect Dark multiplayer originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Jul 2010 11:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>agent-4crackdowncrackdown-2Easter-eggmicrosoftMicrosoft-Game-StudiosPerfect-DarkPerfect-Dark-XBLArareruffian-gamesxboxFri, 02 Jul 2010 11:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Crackdown 2's open-world rampaging fueled by R.E.M., among others]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/02/crackdown-2s-open-world-rampaging-fueled-by-r-e-m-among-other/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/02/crackdown-2s-open-world-rampaging-fueled-by-r-e-m-among-other/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/02/crackdown-2s-open-world-rampaging-fueled-by-r-e-m-among-other/#commentsFiled under: , ,

It's more or less the end of the world as we know it in Crackdown 2's Pacific City, but that won't be the R.E.M. song you'll hear in-game when it leaps from a rooftop to your place of residence on July 6. Find out what song of theirs you will hear with the full soundtrack listing after the break.

Continue reading Crackdown 2's open-world rampaging fueled by R.E.M., among others

JoystiqCrackdown 2's open-world rampaging fueled by R.E.M., among others originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Jul 2010 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crackdown-2microsoftremruffian-gamessoundtrackxboxFri, 02 Jul 2010 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Cheap Defense Grid, Winterbottom and more on XBLM next week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/26/cheap-defense-grid-winterbottom-and-more-on-xblm-next-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/26/cheap-defense-grid-winterbottom-and-more-on-xblm-next-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/26/cheap-defense-grid-winterbottom-and-more-on-xblm-next-week/#commentsFiled under: , ,

In addition to officially revealing next week's XBLA offerings, Major Nelson has also laid out Xbox Live Marketplace schedule for the rest of June, including the Deal of the Week, Games on Demand and Avatar Marketplace. The Deal of the Week -- or Deals of the Week, rather -- takes the spotlight, with several decent titles on sale. Darwinia+ will be marked down to 800 points ($10), while Defense Grid, PB Winterbottom, Rocket Riot and Poker Smash will all be marked down to 400 points ($5). Also, the OneBigGame charity project, Chime, will be reduced to a puny 240 points ($3).

Meanwhile, both Tomb Raider Underworld and Command & Conquer 3 will hit Games on Demand on June 29, and some Crackdown 2 Avatar items will be released on July 1.

JoystiqCheap Defense Grid, Winterbottom and more on XBLM next week originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 26 Jun 2010 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ChimeCrackdown-2Darwinia-Plusdeal-of-the-weekDefense-GridmicrosoftPoker-SmashRocket-RiotThe-Misadventures-of-PB-WinterbottomxblaxboxSat, 26 Jun 2010 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Crackdown 2 demo now available; Facebook game unlocks bonuses]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/21/crackdown-2-demo-now-available-facebook-game-unlocks-bonuses/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/21/crackdown-2-demo-now-available-facebook-game-unlocks-bonuses/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/21/crackdown-2-demo-now-available-facebook-game-unlocks-bonuses/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Can't wait to earn 'Cheevos for the many, many heads you'll be busting in Crackdown 2? You can get an early start today -- the 1GB demo of the game, now available on Xbox Live Marketplace, features accelerated character leveling, four-player co-op and the ability to start earning Achievements, which will fully unlock when you boot up the retail version of the game, coming July 6.

In addition, the Crackdown 2-themed Facebook game Chuck's Duck 2 unlocks a new difficulty in the demo and a multiplayer weapon for use in the retail version of the game. Appropriately, said weapon is an exploding, sticky rubber duck. That ought to strike some fear into the hearts of Pacific City's mutant inhabitants, shouldn't it?


Xbox.com: Add Crackdown 2 demo to your Xbox 360 download queue

JoystiqCrackdown 2 demo now available; Facebook game unlocks bonuses originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 Jun 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bonusChucks-DucksCrackdown-2demofacebookmicrosoftMicrosoft-Game-StudiosRiot-Act-2ruffian-gamesXBLMxboxMon, 21 Jun 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Crackdown 2 demo drops in Monday, June 21]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/crackdown-2-demo-drops-in-monday-june-21/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/crackdown-2-demo-drops-in-monday-june-21/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/crackdown-2-demo-drops-in-monday-june-21/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Agent, you ready to get more skills for kills? Return to Pacific City with the Crackdown 2 demo next Monday, June 21. The "generous demo" will apparently be huge, according to our recent interview with Ruffian's James Cope.

You can likely increase your chances of getting the demo early by following Ruffian Games' Twitter account. The company appears to be giving out passes early to those with a quick enough Twitter finger. We also have 10 codes to give out, five on Twitter and five on Facebook this Saturday, June 18.

Gallery: Crackdown 2 (X10)

JoystiqCrackdown 2 demo drops in Monday, June 21 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Jun 2010 22:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crackdown-2demomicrosoftRiot-Act-2ruffian-gamesxboxFri, 18 Jun 2010 22:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Crackdown 2 Achievements are just wonderful]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/03/crackdown-2-achievements-are-just-wonderful/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/03/crackdown-2-achievements-are-just-wonderful/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/03/crackdown-2-achievements-are-just-wonderful/#commentsFiled under: , ,

At first glance, the Achievements in Crackdown 2 appear to encourage nothing but hours of grinding. Complete every blah blah, find every yadda yadda; that kind of thing. Scroll further down, however, and you'll remember why you love the Achievements from the first Crackdown. Rather than list them all, we'll give you just this one:
  • Yippee-Kai-Yay: Drive an Agency SUV into an airborne helicopter.
Find the rest at MyGamerCard.net.

JoystiqCrackdown 2 Achievements are just wonderful originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Jun 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AchievementsCrackdown-2microsoftMicrosoft-Game-StudiosRuffian-GamesxboxXbox-360Thu, 03 Jun 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New Crackdown 2 prequel short explains origins of the mutants]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/01/new-crackdown-2-prequel-short-explains-origins-of-the-mutants/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/01/new-crackdown-2-prequel-short-explains-origins-of-the-mutants/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/01/new-crackdown-2-prequel-short-explains-origins-of-the-mutants/#comments Ever since we found out that the mean streets of Pacific City had been ravaged by even meaner mutants in Crackdown 2, we've been curious about from whence said mutants sprung. Our curiosity was satisfied by the second episode in the animated "Pacific City Archives" prequel series, which tells of the exploits of twisted ex-Agency medical researcher Catalina Thorne.

Check out the episode after the jump to see Thorne's fall from grace and how she introduced the mutant virus into the helpless population of Pacific City. If that's not grounds for reaching archvillain status in Crackdown 2, we're not sure what is.

Continue reading New Crackdown 2 prequel short explains origins of the mutants

JoystiqNew Crackdown 2 prequel short explains origins of the mutants originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Jun 2010 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actioncrackdowncrackdown-2microsoftMicrosoft-Game-Studiosopen-worldprequelRiot-Act-2ruffian-gamesSandboxvideoXbox-360Tue, 01 Jun 2010 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Interview: Hunting orbs with Crackdown 2's Billy Tomson and James Cope]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/27/interview-hunting-orbs-with-crackdown-2s-billy-tomson-and-jame/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/27/interview-hunting-orbs-with-crackdown-2s-billy-tomson-and-jame/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/27/interview-hunting-orbs-with-crackdown-2s-billy-tomson-and-jame/#comments
Though the Crackdown franchise has a new development team in Ruffian Games, the upcoming sequel hopes to retain the best qualities found in the original Xbox hit. You'd think the task is made easier when former Realtime Worlds employees form part of the developer, but creative director Billy Tomson and producer James Cope believe there is still room for improvement.

In an interview with Joystiq, the pair discussed Crackdown 2's vision and its attempt to perfect the open-world formula. Read on to learn more about the limitations of the original engine, memory complications, the omission of female playable characters, and plans for future content.

Gallery: Crackdown 2 (X10)


Continue reading Interview: Hunting orbs with Crackdown 2's Billy Tomson and James Cope

JoystiqInterview: Hunting orbs with Crackdown 2's Billy Tomson and James Cope originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 27 May 2010 12:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>billy-tomsoncrackdown-2interviewjames-copeMicrosoftruffian-gamesXbox-360Thu, 27 May 2010 12:20:00 EST<![CDATA[The worlds of Crackdown and Crackdown 2 compared]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/the-worlds-of-crackdown-and-crackdown-2-compared/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/the-worlds-of-crackdown-and-crackdown-2-compared/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/the-worlds-of-crackdown-and-crackdown-2-compared/#comments If the recent animated prequel didn't convince you that Pacific City, the setting for the Crackdown series, has gone to hell in a handbasket since the franchise's first installment, then perhaps this will do the trick. BitMob recently posted a panoramic comparison of the city as it looked in Crackdown to how it looks in Crackdown 2. In short, it looks like a really, really terrible place to live now.

Watch as some of the notable landmarks from the first game crumble, decay or simply become derelict due to the influx of violent mutants that plague Crackdown 2. It looks like Pacific City has become a generally more dangerous place to take up residence -- though, as a concern, we imagine that ranks second behind what this gruesome makeover has done to the city's property values.

JoystiqThe worlds of Crackdown and Crackdown 2 compared originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 May 2010 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActioncomparisonCrackdowncrackdown-2Microsoftmicrosoft-game-studiosRiot-Act-2ruffian-gamesSandboxXbox-360Wed, 26 May 2010 18:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on: Crackdown 2's first missions]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/crackdown-2-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/crackdown-2-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/crackdown-2-preview/#comments In the beginning of Crackdown 2, the objective is simple: The Agency has developed a weapon called the "Sunburst Defense System," designed to quickly rid Pacific City of its mutated inhabitants, or "freaks," by melting them vampire-style with artificial sunlight. In order to locate the freak hot zones (various underground breeding areas for the infected humans), Agents must activate a series of beacons to triangulate the precise positions onto which the Sunburst weapon should be deployed. Unfortunately, a terrorist group known as "The Cell" are protecting the last beacons, so it's up to you -- a new generation clone soldier -- to reclaim the beacons and activate the Sunburst Defense System.

Although it starts slow, Crackdown 2 shows promise for fans of the original sandbox adventure. The introductory plot is razor thin and is in place simply to encourage Agents to explore the open landscape of Pacific City, which has been devastated by the mysterious infection.

Gallery: Crackdown 2 (X10)

Continue reading Hands-on: Crackdown 2's first missions

JoystiqHands-on: Crackdown 2's first missions originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 May 2010 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crackdown-2Microsoftmicrosoft-game-studiosruffian-gamesXbox-360Wed, 26 May 2010 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Third Crackdown 2 ViDoc revels in mass destruction]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/25/third-crackdown-2-vidoc-revels-in-mass-destruction/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/25/third-crackdown-2-vidoc-revels-in-mass-destruction/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/25/third-crackdown-2-vidoc-revels-in-mass-destruction/#comments We should warn you right off the bat that the ViDoc for Crackdown 2 embedded above does at one point feature a Ruffian Games employee using the word "awesomeness," though he thankfully catches himself quickly before the madness spreads too far. While his excitement for this summer's Xbox 360 release is appreciable, we're not so sure that devolving into Valley Girl-isms is the way to play up the game's comically destructive sandbox gameplay.

As senior designer Dean Smith puts it, "For some reason, there's a lot of explosive things lying around Pacific City as well, so there's always a new prop to grab or a new explodable of some type." Now that's what gets us excited for more Crackdown: stuff exploding! Lots of stuff exploding! Hooray explosions!

JoystiqThird Crackdown 2 ViDoc revels in mass destruction originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 25 May 2010 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Actioncrackdowncrackdown-2dean-smithinside-the-toy-boxMicrosoftMicrosoft-Game-StudiosRiot-Act-2ruffianruffian-gamesSandboxtrailervidocXbox-360Tue, 25 May 2010 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[What's in a Name: Ruffian Games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/25/whats-in-a-name-ruffian-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/25/whats-in-a-name-ruffian-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/25/whats-in-a-name-ruffian-games/#comments It's been months since we've brought you the origin story of an industry presence, so during our recent preview of Crackdown 2 we asked Ruffian Games creative director Billy Tomson how the new Scottish dev got its hooligan-inspired moniker:

"When I was younger some people thought I was a bit of a troublemaker. There was a parent's evening at our school and everybody had their work laid out -- it's an odd school -- everybody had their schoolwork laid out on the tables and the parents were basically being carted around.

"My mom and dad were there and one of my mates, his mom and dad thought I was a bad influence on him and they were just up ahead [of my parents] being carted around to look at all the work. My mom and dad ended up behind them and my mate's dad was looking at my work and he said to his wife, 'That's really good work, that.' It was just some artwork. And his wife said, "Oh that's Billy Tomson's stuff." And he kind of turned around and went, 'Oh, he's a ruffian, that boy!'

"I told this story to Gaz [Liddon], who's the studio head at Ruffian and we're all laughing about it. And it was like two weeks later, this was before the company was formed, he basically phoned me up and said, 'I think I've got a great idea for a name for the company.' He said, 'It was about something you told me. How about we call it Ruffian Games.'

"I thought he was joking. I just laughed and I thought, you can't call it 'Ruffian Games,' and after a while I thought, 'That's actually quite good. That could stick.' It was Gaz's idea. I would have never called it Ruffian Games myself, in the end I actually quite like it. I think it's a good fit for how we all are."
- Billy Tomson, Creative Director at Ruffian Games

Like this feature? Be sure to check out the What's In A Name Archives.

JoystiqWhat's in a Name: Ruffian Games originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 25 May 2010 09:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crackdown-2ruffian-gameswhats-in-a-nameTue, 25 May 2010 09:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Viral Crackdown 2 contest offers early demo access]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/24/viral-crackdown-2-contest-offers-early-demo-access/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/24/viral-crackdown-2-contest-offers-early-demo-access/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/24/viral-crackdown-2-contest-offers-early-demo-access/#commentsThis is your lucky day, agent. Today you get to participate in viral marketing, easily the best kind of marketing in Pacific City. This marketing, as you may have guessed, is for Crackdown 2. You might be wondering why you'd participate in such a thing. After all, you loved the first Crackdown, you've read the hands-on coverage for the sequel, your pre-order money has been set aside and you're just coasting your way to July. The answer is simple: early demo access.

To get started, pick up Microsoft's Tag Reader app for your mobile phone (find it at gettag.mobi). Then, watch this video. At the end you'll see a hidden orb, which you can scan with Tag Reader. If you'd rather not watch the video (again), you can just scan the image to the right. Once scanned, you can register for a contest account, which will provide you with text message clues about the locations of the remaining "orbs." Find them, scan them and you're in.

Orbs for demos, agent. Orbs for demos. Unless you don't have a texting plan, of course.

JoystiqViral Crackdown 2 contest offers early demo access originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 24 May 2010 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActionCrackdownCrackdown-2demoMicrosoft-Game-StudiosRiot-Act-2ruffian-gamesSandboxtag-readerxbox-liveMon, 24 May 2010 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Crackdown 2 gets ultra-violent prequel cartoon]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/22/crackdown-2-gets-ultra-violent-prequel-cartoon/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/22/crackdown-2-gets-ultra-violent-prequel-cartoon/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/22/crackdown-2-gets-ultra-violent-prequel-cartoon/#comments You know what violent video gaming franchise we always thought would make an excellent Saturday morning cartoon? Crackdown. We're thinking of a modern day GI Joe series, with rugged super soldiers, death-defying acrobatic feats, the occasional car chase and a helpful PSA at the end of each episode. However, Machinima.com recently posted the first episode in a real cartoon series based on Crackdown 2, and ... well, let's just say they went in a much different direction with it. A much bloodier direction.

Check past the jump to see the first installment in "The Pacific City Archives," and think about how happy you are that whatever city you may be living in is relatively killer-mutant-free.

[Via Kotaku]

Continue reading Crackdown 2 gets ultra-violent prequel cartoon

JoystiqCrackdown 2 gets ultra-violent prequel cartoon originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 22 May 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Actioncartooncrackdowncrackdown-2Microsoftmicrosoft-game-studiospacific-cityprequelRiot-Act-2ruffian-gamesSandboxvideoXbox-360Sat, 22 May 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Interview: Audio Director Kristofor Mellroth on the sounds of Crackdown 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/14/interview-audio-director-kristofor-mellroth-on-the-sounds-of-cr/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/14/interview-audio-director-kristofor-mellroth-on-the-sounds-of-cr/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/14/interview-audio-director-kristofor-mellroth-on-the-sounds-of-cr/#comments It's fair to say Crackdown was a surprise -- even if you didn't buy it for the Halo 3 beta key, odds are that you downloaded the demo and found a pretty impressive pre-GTA IV open-world shooter. That seems like a blessing and a curse for Audio Director Kristofor Mellroth and the rest of the dev team at Ruffian Games working on the sequel: on the one hand, we have fond memories of the original game, but on the other, there are more great open-world games out there now. Will we go back to Pacific City now that we've got a choice?

Mellroth is doing everything on his end to make sure that we do. From the music of the game (which features remixes from the likes of Bob Dylan and Creedence Clearwater Revival, as well as electronic beats by artists like Tokyo Black Star and Adam Freeland) to gunshots, explosions, and the ever-present tones of Michael McConnohie, he's put a lot of thought into what Crackdown 2 should sound like and why. Read on for an exclusive interview with the game's audio director.

Continue reading Interview: Audio Director Kristofor Mellroth on the sounds of Crackdown 2

JoystiqInterview: Audio Director Kristofor Mellroth on the sounds of Crackdown 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 May 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Actionbob-dylancrackdowncrackdown-2creedence-clearwater-revivalfreakskristofor-mellrothMicrosoftmicrosoft-game-studiosmusicopen-worldRiot-Act-2ruffian-gamesSandboxsound-designsound-effectsvoiceoverXbox-360zombiesFri, 14 May 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Crackdown 2 vidoc shows that nothing is sacred]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/19/crackdown-2-vidoc-shows-that-nothing-is-sacred/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/19/crackdown-2-vidoc-shows-that-nothing-is-sacred/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/19/crackdown-2-vidoc-shows-that-nothing-is-sacred/#comments Despite its title, the latest Crackdown 2 vidoc, "Nothing is Sacred," reveals at least one sacred thing in Ruffian's upcoming game: humor. The amusing action becomes apparent when you knock someone upside the head with a sign post, or attach a satchel charge to their face.

The first game certainly had its share of guffaw-inducing moments and, come July 6, we'll know if -- on top of skills for kills -- agents will get lulz for kills.

JoystiqCrackdown 2 vidoc shows that nothing is sacred originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Apr 2010 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActionCrackdowncrackdown-2Microsoftmicrosoft-game-studiosRiot-Act-2ruffianruffian-gamesSandboxXbox-360Mon, 19 Apr 2010 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on: Crackdown 2 (single player)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/06/crackdown-2-single-player-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/06/crackdown-2-single-player-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/06/crackdown-2-single-player-preview/#comments For some, the original Crackdown was little more than an entry ticket into the Halo 3 beta. Others, however, discovered a fun open-world game filled with some of the finest explosions in gaming. Crackdown 2 doesn't have the luxury of enticing gamers with free access to a big-name beta. Instead, it must rest on its own merits: the promise of improving upon every aspect of the original game.

The single-player story begins with a recap of the events of the first game. Critics noted narrative as one of the weakest aspects of the original Crackdown, and the second game attempts to address that by offering a more fleshed out story. That's not to say players' progression will be restricted in any way; you can still run and gun your way to the "final stage," if you're feeling particularly brave.

Restricting player freedom would go against what fans found so endearing about the first Crackdown. It's clear that the franchise's new developer, Ruffian Games, doesn't want to stray too far from what made the first game a success. Once again, players will be tasked with cleaning up the streets of Pacific City; this time ridding the world of a terrorist organization known as "The Cell," bent on destroying The Agency and its new hero: you.

Gallery: Crackdown 2 (X10)

Continue reading Hands-on: Crackdown 2 (single player)

JoystiqHands-on: Crackdown 2 (single player) originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Apr 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crackdown-2Microsoftmicrosoft-game-studiosruffian-gamesXbox-360Tue, 06 Apr 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Crackdown 2 will not feature female agents]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/01/crackdown-2-will-not-feature-female-agents/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/01/crackdown-2-will-not-feature-female-agents/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/01/crackdown-2-will-not-feature-female-agents/#comments Admitting that the ability to create and play as a female agent in the first Crackdown was originally intended (but eventually cut), Billy Thomson, Ruffian Games creative director and former lead designer of Crackdown at Realtime Worlds, explained to 1UP that the functionality won't be making an appearance in the sequel either. According to Thomson, it was excluded from the first game due to memory constraints that would've required a "massive reduction" to other parts of the game.

Similar limitations will keep playable female characters out of Crackdown 2 at launch, Thomson claimed. "You've got four players (in cooperative play), and that means every single player can be a different character, and that has to be in memory all the time ... we had to save memory all over the place because we've got so much more content in this game than we had in the first game ... we don't stream." While the studio isn't making any promises about a female agent DLC update, "we never know what happens in the future," teased producer James Cope.

JoystiqCrackdown 2 will not feature female agents originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 01 Apr 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Actionbilly-thomsoncrackdowncrackdown-2female-charactersjames-copeMicrosoftRiot-Act-2ruffian-gamesSandboxXbox-360Thu, 01 Apr 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Get a taste of Crackdown 2's multiplayer modes at PAX East]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/25/get-a-taste-of-crackdown-2s-multiplayer-modes-at-pax-east/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/25/get-a-taste-of-crackdown-2s-multiplayer-modes-at-pax-east/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/25/get-a-taste-of-crackdown-2s-multiplayer-modes-at-pax-east/#comments Those looking to travel into Pacific City can do so via Boston this weekend, as Crackdown 2 will greet PAX East attendees with a pair of playable multiplayer modes. "Team Deathmatch" will encourage four-on-four devastation in a playground littered with weapons, vehicles and, eventually, horribly disfigured egos. The full game will support up to 16 combatants, along with "Rocket Tag," the second mode being shown off at PAX. It's like tag, but with ... arugula?

If you're keen on herban combat, be sure to swing by PAX East from March 26 to March 28! If you can't make it, just avoid reading about all the cool stuff that's happening there, okay? You'll feel better.

JoystiqGet a taste of Crackdown 2's multiplayer modes at PAX East originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Mar 2010 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crackdown-2microsoftmicrosoft-game-studiosmultiplayerpax-east-2010ruffian-gamesXbox-360Thu, 25 Mar 2010 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Crackdown 2 touches down July 6]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/15/crackdown-2-july-6-release-date/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/15/crackdown-2-july-6-release-date/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/15/crackdown-2-july-6-release-date/#comments Microsoft has announced the date for your return trip to Pacific City ... when you'll tear it to shreds in the name of justice! Crackdown 2 will launch in North America on July 6, with Asia, Australia and New Zealand releases following on July 8, and Europe's on July 9 -- narrowly missing the "first half of 2010" release estimate.

Producer James Cope previously said that a demo will be forthcoming before the release of the game, so we'll be playing some small portion of Crackdown 2 sooner than July 6. We're going to start playing even sooner than that, actually -- our dreams are littered with orbs.

[Update: New multiplayer ViDoc embedded above.]

Gallery: Crackdown 2 (X10)

JoystiqCrackdown 2 touches down July 6 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 15 Mar 2010 09:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Actioncrackdowncrackdown-2microsoftmicrosoft-game-studiosq3-2010release-dateRiot-Act-2ruffian-gamesSandboxXbox-360Mon, 15 Mar 2010 09:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Crackdown 2 producer: 'Expect a demo' before release]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/19/crackdown-2-producer-expect-a-demo-before-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/19/crackdown-2-producer-expect-a-demo-before-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/19/crackdown-2-producer-expect-a-demo-before-release/#comments
 Crackdown 2 producer James Cope doesn't want you to have any doubt in your mind that a demo is headed to Xbox Live before the game's release, telling IGN UK in an interview, "You can definitely expect a demo to hit Live before the game is out." While we know the game's set to release in the "first half of 2010," Cope wouldn't get any more specific about the release date.

Cope, however, did explain the revamped orb collection system (which adds "new types of Orbs for Agility and Driving skills") and admitted that "the Agency has finally discovered the power of flight." More specifically, he's referring to helicopters, the armored vehicles that will aid you in your destruction clean-up campaign across Pacific City -- and something criminally absent from the first Crackdown. For a handful of more granular details about the upcoming city-jumping sim sequel, peep the rest of the source interview.

Gallery: Crackdown 2 (11/24/09)


[Via Xbox360Achievements.org]

JoystiqCrackdown 2 producer: 'Expect a demo' before release originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Jan 2010 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Actioncrackdowncrackdown-2Demojames-copeMicrosoftRiot-Act-2Ruffian-GamesSandboxxblmXbox-360Tue, 19 Jan 2010 16:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Greenberg: Crackdown 2 coming first half of 2010]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/21/greenberg-crackdown-2-coming-first-half-of-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/21/greenberg-crackdown-2-coming-first-half-of-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/21/greenberg-crackdown-2-coming-first-half-of-2010/#comments On Major Nelson's weekly podcast -- with a host left laughing and teary-eyed due to the Xbox head's dental-related lisp -- Aaron Greenberg did some NPD boasting before ruminating on the first half of 2010. After pointing out Mass Effect 2, Splinter Cell Conviction, and Alan Wake, he confirmed Crackdown 2 as part of Microsoft's list of "triple-A, exclusive" titles heading to the Xbox 360 during "the first half of the year."

"Those are just the exclusives, that doesn't include Final Fantasy ... there's no way we had a first half of the year like that last year," Greenberg added. The back end of the upcoming year is no slouch either in his eyes, with Halo Reach and Fable 3 said to be on schedule for launch in the Fall. Considering the first Crackdown's February release date, we're hoping for a similarly timed release of the sequel (just in time for its third birthday!). We've followed up with Greenberg and will update this post if we hear more.

Gallery: Crackdown 2 (11/24/09)

JoystiqGreenberg: Crackdown 2 coming first half of 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 Dec 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010aaron-greenbergActionCrackdownCrackdown-2halo-reachMicrosoftrelease-dateRiot-Act-2Ruffian-GamesSandboxsplinter-cell-convictionXbox-360Mon, 21 Dec 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Spike VGA 2009 Wrap-up: The awards, the trailers, the premieres]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/13/spike-vga-2009-wrap-up-the-awards-the-trailers-the-premieres/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/13/spike-vga-2009-wrap-up-the-awards-the-trailers-the-premieres/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/13/spike-vga-2009-wrap-up-the-awards-the-trailers-the-premieres/#comments As you can probably tell by looking at our front page, last night's Spike Video Game Awards show was a pretty prolific source of gaming news. From the big reveals of games like Batman: Arkham Asylum 2 and Star Wars: The Force Unleashed 2, to new trailers for Crackdown 2 and Halo: Reach, to ... well, the actual awards, it was a pretty busy night for all parties involved.

We've collected all the stories, trailers, and winners of each award in this post to prevent you from hunting through our archives -- or our hateful, hateful liveblog -- to find what you're looking for. You'll find them all listed after the jump!

Continue reading Spike VGA 2009 Wrap-up: The awards, the trailers, the premieres

JoystiqSpike VGA 2009 Wrap-up: The awards, the trailers, the premieres originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 13 Dec 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>awardsbatman-arkham-asylum-2crackdown-2deadliest-warriorgreen-day-rock-bandhalo-reachmedal-of-honorMedal-of-Honor-2010MicrosoftNintendoprince-of-persia-the-forgotten-sandsspec-ops-the-linespike-vga-2009star-wars-the-force-unleashed-2tron-evolutiontrue-crimeufc-undisputed-2010vgaWiiXbox-360Sun, 13 Dec 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Crackdown 2's VGA trailer invites you to 'blow #&$^ up' with it]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/13/crackdown-2s-vga-trailer-invites-you-to-blow-and-up-with-it/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/13/crackdown-2s-vga-trailer-invites-you-to-blow-and-up-with-it/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/13/crackdown-2s-vga-trailer-invites-you-to-blow-and-up-with-it/#comments
As you might have already guessed, last night's Spike Video Game Awards show's "World Premiere" trailers have landed on the web via GameTrailers.com. First up for us this morning: Crackdown 2. Featuring the first campaign footage from the game that we've seen, it looks as though we'll be cooperatively taking down enemies with other agents when the game launches. Moreover, the entire trailer glories in the mass destruction introduced to us in the first Crackdown, backed up by a "Would you like to blow &%^$ up with me?" soundtrack. Color us excited.

Gallery: Crackdown 2 (11/24/09)

JoystiqCrackdown 2's VGA trailer invites you to 'blow #&$^ up' with it originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 13 Dec 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Actioncampaigncrackdowncrackdown-2gameplaymicrosoftRiot-Act-2ruffianruffian-gamesSandboxspike-vgaspike-vga-2009trailervga-2009Xbox-360Sun, 13 Dec 2009 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Here's your Crackdown 2 weapon loadout, agent!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/24/heres-your-crackdown-2-weapon-loadout-agent/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/24/heres-your-crackdown-2-weapon-loadout-agent/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/24/heres-your-crackdown-2-weapon-loadout-agent/#comments Doling out only a handful of fresh screens for Crackdown 2 with a smattering of in-game renders, Ruffian Games has done little to supply us with more information on its upcoming game in today's media release. Everything from various character designs to about two dozen weapon types can be found in the gallery below, showcasing the visually gussied-up artwork from the sequel to 2007's surprise hit. It appears as though the few screenshots included are of areas we've seen in the past, though (as you can see in the image above) we're now treated to many more explosions. Now if only we could get some sort of a release date, we could start getting properly excited for Crackdown 2. The thrill just ain't there without an end in sight, ya know?

Gallery: Crackdown 2 (11/24/09)

JoystiqHere's your Crackdown 2 weapon loadout, agent! originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActionCrackdownCrackdown-2Microsoft-Game-StudiosRiot-Act-2Ruffian-GamesSandboxTue, 24 Nov 2009 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Get your graffiti in Crackdown 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/24/get-your-graffiti-in-crackdown-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/24/get-your-graffiti-in-crackdown-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/24/get-your-graffiti-in-crackdown-2/#comments Why waste your graffiti on something as temporary as the rear wall of the nearby Rio Grande or Ronald's Cheese Corner when you could have it enshrined forever, digitally? That's the opportunity being offered by Ruffian Games, which is looking for graffiti submissions from fans who'll have a chance to get their art in the game and their name in the credits, if their work is among the best, that is.

If you're having trouble deciding what exactly, the theme - the jumping off point, if you will - of your e-vandalism should be, may we suggest ... Mighty Horse?

JoystiqGet your graffiti in Crackdown 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 15:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActioncontestsCrackdownCrackdown-2graffitiMicrosoft-Game-StudiosRiot-Act-2Ruffian-GamesSandboxucgTue, 24 Nov 2009 15:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Interview: Crackdown 2 lead designer Steve Iannetta]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/19/interview-crackdown-2-lead-designer-steve-iannetta/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/19/interview-crackdown-2-lead-designer-steve-iannetta/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/19/interview-crackdown-2-lead-designer-steve-iannetta/#comments In 2010, the agents are returning to action, this time with a new development team at the helm. Following a demo of Crackdown 2's single-player in action and a multiplayer deathmatch session, Ruffian Games' lead designer Steve Iannetta took time to discuss everything from new concepts and features in the sequel, the media's reaction to the RealTime Worlds "controversy" and evolving the co-operative world of Pacific City.

Gallery: Crackdown 2 (TGS 2009)

Continue reading Interview: Crackdown 2 lead designer Steve Iannetta

JoystiqInterview: Crackdown 2 lead designer Steve Iannetta originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Oct 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Actioncrackdowncrackdown-2interviewMicrosoftmicrosoft-game-studiosrealtime-worldsRiot-Act-2ruffian-gamesSandboxsteve-IannettaXbox-360Mon, 19 Oct 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Interview: Microsoft Game Studios' Phil Spencer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/14/interview-microsoft-game-studios-phil-spencer/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/14/interview-microsoft-game-studios-phil-spencer/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/14/interview-microsoft-game-studios-phil-spencer/#comments If given the choice of becoming a (presumably) anthropomorphic vegetable, Phil Spencer would opt for an eggplant. Sure, we spoke to the confident head of Microsoft Game Studios about other things -- Halo, Project Natal, Fable, Crackdown, the Xbox 360's successor, blah blah blah -- but with that profound scoop out of the way, there's barely any reason to read this interview.

Mind you, the part where Spencer suggests that alternate forms of input (whether in addition to or in substitute of traditional controllers) might become a common expectation is pretty interesting. You should definitely read that.

Joystiq: We just came out of the Tokyo Game Show panel discussion for Project Natal ...

Phil Spencer: The creators panel.

Yes, the creators panel. Hideo Kojima was there; they brainstormed about all these games. How much focus is Microsoft Game Studios placing on Natal development internally in comparison to other projects?

It's a big focus for us in first party. As a first party, I think it's our duty, it's our responsibility to look at the new technologies that we bring to our platform. We did this with Live. We did at launch of 360. When we look at Project Natal as an opportunity for first party to truly innovate on our platform, creating new experiences, new intellectual property, we're very focused. A large percentage of the studio right now is thinking about Natal as part of what they're doing.

Continue reading Interview: Microsoft Game Studios' Phil Spencer

JoystiqInterview: Microsoft Game Studios' Phil Spencer originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Oct 2009 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Alan-WakeCrackdownCrackdown-2FableHaloHalo-3-ODSTinterviewMicrosoftMicrosoft-Game-StudiosODSTPhil-SpencerProject-Natalspawnpoint-studiosTGSTGS-2009Xbox-360Wed, 14 Oct 2009 12:15:00 EST