Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Crush developer Zoe Mode opening new office in London]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/11/crush-developer-zoe-mode-opening-new-office-in-london/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/11/crush-developer-zoe-mode-opening-new-office-in-london/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/11/crush-developer-zoe-mode-opening-new-office-in-london/#commentsFiled under:

Did you play the game Crush? We did -- and we loved it. Now the developers, Zoe Mode (previously Kuju Brighton), are expanding their offices into London and are seeking new faces to help their staff grow. They've got two projects lined up already for their new office opening in September. It's not like this new studio is full of empty faces -- the office already has their current Zoe Mode executive producer, Nick Rodriguez, as well as a core team from their Brighton office. If you're in the London area and are qualified for the positions of producer, art manager, or senior programmer, check out their website.

[Via Gamespot]

JoystiqCrush developer Zoe Mode opening new office in London originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 Jul 2008 02:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CrushPlatformerPuzzleSegaZoe-ModeFri, 11 Jul 2008 02:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Crush gets smashed to $15]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/17/crush-gets-smashed-to-15/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/17/crush-gets-smashed-to-15/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/17/crush-gets-smashed-to-15/#commentsFiled under:

Unfortunately, the incredibly innovative 2D/3D PSP-exclusive puzzle game Crush never met the sales it quite deserved. That's a shame, because we really enjoyed the detailed graphics, the quirky story, the impeccable presentation ... and most importantly, the gameplay.

Check out our review, and some videos of the game in action. If you haven't checked out Crush yet, maybe this $15 deal on amazon.com will convince you to pick up one of the most original PSP exclusives ever.

[Via CAG]

JoystiqCrush gets smashed to $15 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 17 May 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CrushPlatformerPuzzleSegaZoe-ModeSat, 17 May 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Playboy: Crush one of '07's most innovative games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/29/playboy-crush-one-of-07s-most-innovative-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/29/playboy-crush-one-of-07s-most-innovative-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/29/playboy-crush-one-of-07s-most-innovative-games/#commentsFiled under:

There is perhaps no other PSP title as innovative and quirky as Zoe Mode's Crush, a puzzler that successfully implemented 2D and 3D gameplay like we've never seen before. And although the game never sold as well as it should have (Boo Sega's marketing department!), it has received the proper recognition from the critics that it deserves.

To add one more accolade to the list, Playboy has chosen Crush as one of its runners-up for 2007's most innovative game. Being included among such wonderful games as Rock Band, Portal, Super Mario Galaxy and Assassin's Creed is no joke ... well, maybe the joke is that Assassin's Creed actually made the list in the first place. Nevertheless, it's great to see one of our favorite PSP titles getting a little more love.

If you still have yet to play Crush, then shame on you. However, there's still time to rectify this gross oversight by picking it up today and experiencing one of the most original games ever to grace a handheld.

JoystiqPlayboy: Crush one of '07's most innovative games originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 29 Dec 2007 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best-of-2007CrushPlatformerPuzzleSegaZoe-ModeSat, 29 Dec 2007 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Daily: Video game crushes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/20/ds-daily-video-game-crushes/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/20/ds-daily-video-game-crushes/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/20/ds-daily-video-game-crushes/#commentsFiled under:

Warning: This video contains spoilers

While playing Phoenix Wright: Trials and Tribulations, we came across this hilarious scene in which the game pokes fun at the "frothing female masses" devoted to Miles Edgeworth (which, sadly, includes this blogger). We know that they're embarrassing to admit to, since -- as you well know -- video game characters aren't real people. Yet, many of us must concede to having a video game crush at some point in our lives, and it's time to 'fess up and come clean. So, what video game characters have you had (or do you have) a crush on?

JoystiqDS Daily: Video game crushes originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Dec 2007 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Ace Attorney Investigations-Miles-Edgeworthace-attorneyaceattorneyAceAttorneyInvestigations-miles-edgeworthcapcomcrushmiles-edgeworthphoenix-wrightphoenixwrighttrials-and-tribulationstrialsandtribulationsThu, 20 Dec 2007 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Zoe Mode further explains their name]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/27/zoe-mode-further-explains-their-name/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/27/zoe-mode-further-explains-their-name/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/27/zoe-mode-further-explains-their-name/#commentsFiled under: ,

We've talked about Kuju Brighton's Zoe Mode name change before, but a new interview with studio head Ed Daly sheds even more light on the decision. Ed knew that some gamers (and even some staff members) would find a girl's name as company moniker a bit silly, but he wanted to have a drastic re-branding. A name that would have gamers sit up and take notice. The decision to use the image of a real model as the company icon was done because Zoe Mode wanted to emphasize that they were real, and their games were for real people. How did the female embodiment influence their game creating decisions? "We make games for Zoe and her family. Zoe is our conscience that signs off on what we do. We ask 'What would Zoe do? and 'Would Zoe like that?' kind of questions. It does help have a reference point, even if she's imaginary" claims Ed.

We don't mean to judge, but maybe Ed and his team are as crazy as the world they created in Crush.

[Via Gamespot]

JoystiqZoe Mode further explains their name originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Jul 2007 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crushzoe modeZoeModeFri, 27 Jul 2007 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Crush wins Develop Award, is best New Handheld IP]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/26/crush-wins-develop-award-is-best-new-handheld-ip/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/26/crush-wins-develop-award-is-best-new-handheld-ip/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/26/crush-wins-develop-award-is-best-new-handheld-ip/#commentsFiled under: ,

Congratulations to Zoe Mode and Crush -- the game just scored the best New Handheld IP award from the Develop Awards. The Develop Awards are focused on European companies and were judged by almost 100 "industry experts."

In addition to Crush, PSP fans will be glad to hear that Sony Computer Entertainment of Europe (SCEE) picked up the biggest award of the evening: the Grand Prix award for their efforts with PlayStation 3.

[Via PS3 Fanboy]

JoystiqCrush wins Develop Award, is best New Handheld IP originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Jul 2007 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CrushPlatformerPuzzleSegaZoe-ModeThu, 26 Jul 2007 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview: Crush]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/14/metareview-crush/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/14/metareview-crush/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/14/metareview-crush/#commentsFiled under: ,

It's obvious from our review of Crush, that we think it'll be a worthwhile experience. Does the game press agree with us, or do they think Crush is a bomb? Let's find out!
  • GameSpy (90/100) got certifiably addicted: "With levels that build on each other in terms of complexity (and, thusly, difficulty), the game inspires that kind of 'just one more level' feeling of addiction that may result in you freeing Dan from his insomnia but earning yourself a nasty case in return."
  • 1UP (95/100) loves the originality: "Most games can be described as an amalgam of others, as borrowed game mechanics and thematic elements bounce from game to game within a genre. Crush might have a recognizable aesthetic (think Psychonauts in a dark alley), but it's gameplay is wholly -- and compellingly it's own."
  • EuroGamer (80/100) appreciates the challenge: "There's a genuine sense of achievement and enjoyment when a seemingly impossible level suddenly clicks (or crushes into place, and the confident way the game uses its central conceit as more than just a gimmick is undeniably reassuring and appealing."

If only being correct on game quality was like unhatching an evil plan, we'd laugh maniacally right now. Heck, we'll do it anyway. We were right! MWA HA HA HA HA!

JoystiqMetareview: Crush originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Jun 2007 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CrushmetareviewPlatformerPuzzleSegaZoe-ModeThu, 14 Jun 2007 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Crush developer open to Wii sequel]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/12/crush-developer-open-to-wii-sequel/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/12/crush-developer-open-to-wii-sequel/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/12/crush-developer-open-to-wii-sequel/#commentsFiled under:


Crush, the PSP's 2D/3D puzzle platformer, may have waggling in its future, according to an interview with Paul Mottram, senior producer at Crush developer Zoë Mode. We're talking faint "may" and distant future, since this was all idle speculation on his part.

When asked the weirdly pointed question of why they made a PSP game instead of putting it on a Nintendo platform, Mottram responded, "There is no reason why it couldn't be transferred to multiple different platforms especially the Wii, DS and PS2 and this is something we are thinking about."

He went on to describe the level editor they wanted to include, but couldn't. That definitely sounds like something well-suited to the DS or Wii, right?

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqCrush developer open to Wii sequel originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Jun 2007 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2d3dcrusheditorkujulevelmodenintendonintendo wiiNintendoWiipsppuzzlesegawiizoezoe modeZoeModeTue, 12 Jun 2007 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Crush producer considers multiplatform release, level editor]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/12/crush-producer-considers-multiplatform-release-level-editor/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/12/crush-producer-considers-multiplatform-release-level-editor/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/12/crush-producer-considers-multiplatform-release-level-editor/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Sixty reasons not enough to convince you to buy a PSP? This interview with Crush senior producer Paul Mottram will only serve to justify your stubbornness. Speaking to Sega Nerds, Mottram expresses interest in taking the game to other platforms.

"There is no reason why it couldn't be transferred to multiple different platforms especially the Wii, DS and PS2," he said, "and this is something we are thinking about." Discussing a potential sequel, Mottram said "It's something we'd all love to do since there are so many features we didn't get the opportunity to put into this version."

Consideration is at least six degrees away from confirmation and execution, but it does seem the folks at development studio Zoë Mode aren't feeling compelled to keep the franchise PSP-exclusive. Should a sequel or new release come out, it will give Mottram and co. a chance to implement a level editor, one of the big ideas that they had but never made it to the final product.

"We have a terrific in-game level editor running on the PSP which our designers used to create all the levels in the game. Unfortunately, we didn't have the time to get this running on a commercial PSP or implement all the necessary user friendly features we would have needed if it was to be shipped with the game. As you could imagine designing Crush levels can be tricky at times."

Crush designer Alex Butterfield gave a speech at this year's Game Developers Conference discussing the challenges of making levels in the game. Mottram summed it up best: "You could spend hours perfecting a level only to see someone instantly circumvent the entire level with a crush we had never considered."

Gallery: Crush (PSP)



[Via PSP Fanboy]

JoystiqCrush producer considers multiplatform release, level editor originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Jun 2007 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CrushDSPlatformerPS2PSPPuzzleSegaWiiZoe-ModeTue, 12 Jun 2007 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Level editor abandoned in Crush (but could appear in sequel)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/12/level-editor-abandoned-in-crush-but-could-appear-in-sequel/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/12/level-editor-abandoned-in-crush-but-could-appear-in-sequel/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/12/level-editor-abandoned-in-crush-but-could-appear-in-sequel/#commentsFiled under: ,

This awkwardly-worded headline does a horrible job at conveying the incredible excitement that surged through me when reading Sega Nerds' interview with Zoe Mode. Paul Mottram, producer of Crush, revealed that there was an in-game level editor used by the developers, but it couldn't be finished in time:

"We have a terrific in-game level editor running on the PSP which our designers used to create all the levels in the game. Unfortunately, we didn't have the time to get this running on a commercial PSP or implement all the necessary user friendly features we would have needed if it was to be shipped with the game. As you could imagine designing Crush levels can be tricky at times."

Of course, the developers would have more time to work on such a mind-blowing feature in a potential sequel ... something Zoe Mode isn't denying. "It's something we'd all love to do since there are so many features we didn't get the opportunity to put into this version."

JoystiqLevel editor abandoned in Crush (but could appear in sequel) originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Jun 2007 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crushPaul-MottramPlatformerPuzzleSegaZoe-ModeTue, 12 Jun 2007 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video walkthrough reveals answers to Crush]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/11/video-walkthrough-reveals-answers-to-crush/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/11/video-walkthrough-reveals-answers-to-crush/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/11/video-walkthrough-reveals-answers-to-crush/#commentsFiled under: ,

Crushed about one of Crush's more diabolical levels? Don't feel too bad -- you're not alone. Many gamers have found the innovative 2D/3D puzzle game to be maniacally difficult. For better or worse, longtime PSP Fanboy reader JIMMY has provided some incredible video walkthroughs for the game. Each video will reveal, step by step, how to get to the exit. But, beware! While we're incredibly grateful for these guides, they may defeat the incredible sense of accomplishment one can get for getting to the end successfully. Do you want to risk that?

Of course, finding the answer certainly beats being stuck on a single level for hours on end.

See also:
Complete Loco Roco guide for download

JoystiqVideo walkthrough reveals answers to Crush originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Jun 2007 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CrushPlatformerPuzzleSegaZoe-ModeMon, 11 Jun 2007 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Crush gets Develop Award nomination]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/09/crush-gets-develop-award-nomination/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/09/crush-gets-develop-award-nomination/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/09/crush-gets-develop-award-nomination/#commentsFiled under:

While PSP is home to many great PlayStation franchises, it's also where many exciting, new and innovative IPs have taken off. Crush is yet another example of a great original PSP title, and it's already getting the attention of critics and developers alike. The Develop Conference has announced its nominations for award recipients, and Crush stands as the easy favorite in the "New Handheld IP" category.

Awards will be announced on July 25th. Will the unanimously beloved Crush get a win?

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqCrush gets Develop Award nomination originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 09 Jun 2007 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CrushDevelop-AwardsPlatformerPuzzleSegaZoe-ModeSat, 09 Jun 2007 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSP Fanboy review: Crush]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/05/psp-fanboy-review-crush/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/05/psp-fanboy-review-crush/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/05/psp-fanboy-review-crush/#commentsFiled under: ,

Crush is many things. It looks and sounds great, is very competent technically and is incredibly difficult. It comes packed with style, innovation and replay value. Not to mention it has a genuinely compelling story, told through the use of atmospheric and well-acted cutscenes. Puzzle games - even those that pretend not to be puzzle games, such as Crush - don't come much better than this. If this sounds like something you want in a game, then pick up Crush. Now.

Continue reading PSP Fanboy review: Crush

JoystiqPSP Fanboy review: Crush originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Jun 2007 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CrushPlatformerPuzzlereviewSegaZoe-ModeTue, 05 Jun 2007 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Worldwide PSP releases for the week of May 27]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/27/worldwide-psp-releases-for-the-week-of-may-27/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/27/worldwide-psp-releases-for-the-week-of-may-27/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/27/worldwide-psp-releases-for-the-week-of-may-27/#commentsFiled under:

Every Sunday PSP Fanboy lets you know what's coming out for the PSP worldwide. If a game is listed as coming out in a different country from where you live, don't worry. Your PSP can play games from any region. That gives every game on this list the potential to be in your future game library. It's a slow game week, but finally Crush hits the US. Keep reading to find out if there's a game you want this week!

US Games
EU Games
Asian Games

Release dates may always change, so you may want to call before heading to your local game shop. Do any of these games interest our readers?

JoystiqWorldwide PSP releases for the week of May 27 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 27 May 2007 20:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crushlegend of the dragonLegendOfTheDragonminna no golf baMinnaNoGolfBaPlatformerPuzzlereleasesSegasmash court tennis 3SmashCourtTennis3surf\'s upSurf\'sUpZoe-ModeSun, 27 May 2007 20:10:00 EST<![CDATA[One more look at Crush]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/24/one-more-look-at-crush/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/24/one-more-look-at-crush/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/24/one-more-look-at-crush/#commentsFiled under:

Crush is already being enjoyed by the lucky Europeans that received the game a week earlier than the rest of us. While Jem is already prepping his review of the game, we wanted to take one more look at Sega's innovative dimension-twisting puzzle game. Check out this new trailer, and some new images in our updated gallery.

Gallery: Crush

JoystiqOne more look at Crush originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 May 2007 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CrushPlatformerPuzzleSegaZoe-ModeThu, 24 May 2007 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Worldwide PSP releases for the week of May 20]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/20/worldwide-psp-releases-for-the-week-of-may-20/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/20/worldwide-psp-releases-for-the-week-of-may-20/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/20/worldwide-psp-releases-for-the-week-of-may-20/#commentsFiled under:

Another week, and luckily another set of game releases. Every Sunday we give you the 411 on what's coming out for the PSP worldwide. If a game is listed as coming out in a different country from where you live, don't worry. Your PSP can play games from any region. That gives every game on this list the potential to be in your future game library. We have some interesting choices this week, so read on!

US Games
EU Games
Asian Games

Release dates may always change, so you may want to call before heading to your local game shop. I totally want Bleach, but do any of these games interest our readers?

JoystiqWorldwide PSP releases for the week of May 20 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 20 May 2007 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bleachbrooktown highBrooktownHighcrushdiner dashDinerDashheatseekerjuicedlegend of the dragonLegendOfTheDragonmetal gear solidMetalGearSolidpirates of the caribbeanPiratesOfTheCaribbeanPlatformerPuzzlereleasesSegawinx clubWinxClubZoe-ModeSun, 20 May 2007 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[SGD '07: Crush]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/17/sgd-07-crush/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/17/sgd-07-crush/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/17/sgd-07-crush/#commentsFiled under:

Sega's psychadelic dimension-bending puzzler Crush is due in just a few day's time. However, that didn't stop Sega from releasing a few new screens to tease us just a little bit more. Of particular note is the creepy box art: what's that guy wearing?

Gallery: Crush

JoystiqSGD '07: Crush originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 May 2007 04:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CrushPlatformerPuzzleSegasgd07Zoe-ModeThu, 17 May 2007 04:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Warm Up: Enter initials]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/14/wii-warm-up-enter-initials/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/14/wii-warm-up-enter-initials/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/14/wii-warm-up-enter-initials/#commentsFiled under: ,


Dude, so we were playing some Alien Crush, and we killed the bonus stage with the dragons over and over again. We totally scored like five billion points and it was so AWESOME that we had to call everyone we knew and tell them about it.

Okay, we're embellishing a bit. When we say we "totally scored like five billion points," we mean that we "continue to be awful at Alien Crush despite playing and loving it for eighteen years." But without our humble admission, you'd have no reason to doubt us! And that leads into our discussion.

Simply put, we want leaderboards. We aren't going to get online play in VC games any time soon (or ever,) so we'll ask for the next best thing. We want to be able to see the high scores for games that, you know, have scores. We don't need prizes or anything. We'd be motivated enough by the idea that we could put our three-letter tag (mine: JC!) at the top of a nationwide or worldwide list if we were any good, which we aren't.

Are high score leaderboards worth doing? Do you see value in friendly competition like this? Or did you always flip right past the high score page in old gaming magazines? Perhaps most importantly, what are your high score initials?

JoystiqWii Warm Up: Enter initials originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 May 2007 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alienaliencrushcrushhigh scorehigh scoresHighScoreHighScoresleaderboardleaderboardsnintendonintendo wiiNintendoWiiscorescoresvcwiiwwuMon, 14 May 2007 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Newest Crush video creeps us out]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/10/newest-crush-video-creeps-us-out/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/10/newest-crush-video-creeps-us-out/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/10/newest-crush-video-creeps-us-out/#commentsFiled under: ,

We knew Crush was going to be a little crazy. We didn't know it was going to be this crazy, though. GameTrailers is showing off one gameplay footage from Sega's hotly anticipated puzzler, and we have to say that it looks somewhat creepy. The random murmurs, creepy music, and surreal art all intertwine to create a somewhat Hitchcockian gaming experience.

Who thought a puzzle game could do that?

JoystiqNewest Crush video creeps us out originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 May 2007 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CrushPlatformerPuzzleSegaZoe-ModeThu, 10 May 2007 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Crush dev talks about the complexities of simplicity]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/02/crush-dev-talks-about-the-complexities-of-simplicity/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/02/crush-dev-talks-about-the-complexities-of-simplicity/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/02/crush-dev-talks-about-the-complexities-of-simplicity/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The ideas behind Crush are deep, man. It's clear from the experimental games panel at GDC that Zoe Mode has a unique perspective on game design. In a new video interview with Gamespot, they reveal the aesthetic challenges of going from 2D to 3D. Simple design choices had to made, from darkening the background, to removing shadows, to brightening colors. Any fan of Crush will want to see the interview, if only for the tantalizing gameplay.

JoystiqCrush dev talks about the complexities of simplicity originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 May 2007 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CrushPlatformerPuzzleSegaZoe-ModeWed, 02 May 2007 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSP Fanboy Theatre: Volume 17]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/28/psp-fanboy-theatre-volume-17/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/28/psp-fanboy-theatre-volume-17/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/28/psp-fanboy-theatre-volume-17/#commentsFiled under:

PSP Fanboy offers the latest and greatest movie and game trailers, formatted for the PSP in this new weekly feature. Check it out every Saturday. PSP owners can download files wirelessly via m.pspfanboy.com.

Instructions: Save all movie and thumbnail files to the VIDEO folder. These high resolution 480x272 videos require firmware 3.30 or above. (Note: OE custom firmware will also play these videos.)


Silent Hill: Origins [PSP]
Download MP4 (3.9MB) | Download JPG

The following videos are featured after the break: Surf's Up, Crush (PSP), Chuck & Larry, Pokemon Launch

Continue reading PSP Fanboy Theatre: Volume 17

JoystiqPSP Fanboy Theatre: Volume 17 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 28 Apr 2007 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adam sandlerAdamSandlercrushPlatformerpokemonPuzzleSegasilent hillsilent hill originsSilentHillSilentHillOriginssurf\'s upSurf\'sUptheatreZoe-ModeSat, 28 Apr 2007 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Another video of Crush's mind-numbing gameplay]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/18/another-video-of-crushs-mind-numbing-gameplay/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/18/another-video-of-crushs-mind-numbing-gameplay/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/18/another-video-of-crushs-mind-numbing-gameplay/#commentsFiled under: ,

Many have been eager to compare the upcoming Crush to Wii's Super Paper Mario. While it's true that both feature dimension-shifting gameplay, the two are taking very different approaches to the concept. This PSP-exclusive puzzler has players going through a beautiful, dream-like world, looking for a way out. This new video from GameVideos.com showcases more gameplay--and we're psyched.

Crush will land on PSP this June.

JoystiqAnother video of Crush's mind-numbing gameplay originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 Apr 2007 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CrushPlatformerPuzzleSegaZoe-ModeWed, 18 Apr 2007 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The puzzling items of Crush]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/13/the-puzzling-items-of-crush/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/13/the-puzzling-items-of-crush/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/13/the-puzzling-items-of-crush/#commentsFiled under: ,

Sega has released a new video, and a few tidbits about their upcoming PSP-exclusive Crush in their latest press release. Considering how awesome the game looks, I can't really complain. The video showcases some of the truly surreal puzzles you'll be tackling in this dimension-bending puzzler/platformer. The puzzles themselves are based on a few unique items, described after the break.

Continue reading The puzzling items of Crush

JoystiqThe puzzling items of Crush originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Mar 2007 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CrushPlatformerPuzzleSegaZoe-ModeTue, 13 Mar 2007 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC 07: Crush highlights experimental design panel]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/08/gdc-07-crush-highlights-experimental-design-panel/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/08/gdc-07-crush-highlights-experimental-design-panel/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/08/gdc-07-crush-highlights-experimental-design-panel/#commentsFiled under: ,


There is one PSP game in everyone's mind here at the Game Developer's Conference: it's called Crush. Kuju Entertainment's revolutionary puzzle-platformer was highlighted in an experimental games panel, due to its highly innovative gameplay concept.

One of the greatest challenges of creating such a unique project is trying to predict how the player will respond to it. Will they be able to understand how the gameplay works? Will they get too confused? Stuck? Through endless hours of QA & debugging, the team decided that the game has to explain to the player why one failed: it becomes a learning process, rather than a frustrating, alienating one.

Although Crush hasn't been released yet, Kuju's Alex Butterfield wasn't afraid to think of other possibilities to expand the Crush idea: What if you could crush time? (For example, a block could turn into a bridge; a cockroach into a centipede.) What if you could crush multiple realities, in multiplayer? Would each player have their own reality? The questions become far more challenging to answer, but much more exciting at the same time. Hopefully, Crush will meet an appreciative audience when it debuts on the PSP--I'd love to see a sequel that explores these mind-numbing concepts.

JoystiqGDC 07: Crush highlights experimental design panel originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Mar 2007 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Alex-ButterfieldCrushgdc07PlatformerPuzzleSegaZoe-ModeThu, 08 Mar 2007 18:15:00 EST<![CDATA[The challenges and philosophies of Crush]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/08/the-challenges-and-philosophies-of-crush/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/08/the-challenges-and-philosophies-of-crush/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/08/the-challenges-and-philosophies-of-crush/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

At yesterday's Experimental Game Design lecture, Alex Butterfield discussed his latest project, the mind-bending PSP title Crush, billed as a "revolution twist on the puzzle platform."

Butterfield's presentation focus on the challenges of making a game that seemingly transitions from 2D to 3D without effort. Crush is designed so that your character, who is under hypnosis to cure insomnia and forced to find a way through 40 dream sequence levels, can only "crush" (transform 3-dimensional space into 2-dimensional platformer) horizontally and top-down.

Of the challenges discussed, Butterfield talked about the shortcut challenge, whereas the clever player would be able to use the crushing ability to move from the beginning of the level to the end without effort. Thus, the team devised three different blocks whose behavior differed when crushed: ghost block (insubstantial), solid blocks (impassible) and hollow blocks hollow block (somewhere in between).

Other issues include disorientation, which Butterfield tried to fix by way of camera work and the placement of prominent landmarks to help the player. There were two design flaws that the dev team worked to solve. The creation of cut-zones let the developers section off part of the level so that one does not accidentally crush themselves next to a horrid enemy without prior knowledge. A safety feature was also implemented so that a crush process does not cause the character to fall helplessly to their doom; "an explanation as to why you failed the puzzle" will be shown instead. Many of these problems were also solved, of course, through countless QA and debugging.

Following the talk of problems and problem solving, Butterfield moved into the realm of conjecture, philosophy and other higher-order thought. What if you were allowed to crush at any angle? What if you could crush outward into four dimensions (with time being the 4th candidate); i.e. a block could become a bridge, a cockroach would crush into a centipede, etc. How about multiplayer? Butterfield suggested separate realities for each character, whereby only you control the crushing in your reality and only your movement would be reported to the other player's screens.

There's no clean-cut solution, but some of these problems give us an idea of the far future of platform puzzlers. Crush is looking good and the game's twist well-executed. The game is slated for release later this year on the PSP.

JoystiqThe challenges and philosophies of Crush originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Mar 2007 09:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crushexperimentexperimentalexperimental gamesExperimentalGamesgdcgdc 07Gdc07PlatformerPSPPuzzleSegaZoe-ModeThu, 08 Mar 2007 09:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Crush developer turns into a woman]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/01/crush-developer-turns-into-a-woman/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/01/crush-developer-turns-into-a-woman/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/01/crush-developer-turns-into-a-woman/#commentsFiled under: ,

We've talked a hell of a lot about the inventive platformer/puzzler Crush already, but it looks like not just the game is creative. Kuju Brighton has decided to change their name to Zoë Mode. The new developer had this to say about their new name, "We've created Zoë Mode; she is the personality that reflects our in-house philosophy of accessible, fun gaming for everyone." I've heard of naming a boat after a woman, but this is the first time I've ever seen it happen to a company. Let's just hope Zoë has the skills to go along with her good looks.

[Via Kotaku]

JoystiqCrush developer turns into a woman originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 01 Mar 2007 21:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CrushPlatformerPuzzleSegaZoe-ModeThu, 01 Mar 2007 21:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Saturday PSP background explosion [Update 1]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/25/saturday-psp-background-explosion/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/25/saturday-psp-background-explosion/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/25/saturday-psp-background-explosion/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Saturday is dwindling away, but it can't officially be over until there are new PSP backgrounds to enjoy. Like every week, we make or showcase new backgrounds for you to put on your PSP and make it look as good as you. Assuming you look good. This week we have backgrounds for 300, Crush and Card Captor Sakura.

Check out the backgrounds after the jump ...

[Update 1: Updated tags and links.]

Continue reading Saturday PSP background explosion [Update 1]

JoystiqSaturday PSP background explosion [Update 1] originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 25 Feb 2007 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>300backgroundbackground explosionBackgroundExplosionbackgroundscard captor sakuraCardCaptorSakuracrushPlatformerPuzzleSegawallpaperZoe-ModeSun, 25 Feb 2007 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Crush features a great story ... for a puzzler]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/20/crush-features-a-great-story-for-a-puzzler/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/20/crush-features-a-great-story-for-a-puzzler/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/20/crush-features-a-great-story-for-a-puzzler/#commentsFiled under: ,

Do puzzle games need good stories? No, not really. But that hasn't stopped Kuju and Sega from trying to think up a meticulous backstory behind its upcoming mind-bending Crush. The 2D/3D dimension-switching gameplay will undoubtedly provide some surreal moments, and the story certainly capitalizes on such a unique concept. Surely, Crush would make a better movie than Lumines.

Continue after the break to see the original press release.

Continue reading Crush features a great story ... for a puzzler

JoystiqCrush features a great story ... for a puzzler originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Feb 2007 12:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CrushPlatformerPuzzleSegaZoe-ModeTue, 20 Feb 2007 12:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Sega loves your PSP; unleashes new Crush video]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/13/sega-loves-your-psp-unleashes-new-crush-video/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/13/sega-loves-your-psp-unleashes-new-crush-video/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/13/sega-loves-your-psp-unleashes-new-crush-video/#commentsFiled under: ,


Wow, you absolutely MUST check out this video of Crush Sega and Kuju's upcoming psychadelic dimension-destroying puzzler. Not just because it's Crush (which looks awesome), but because it has a new "Sega loves your PSP" logo. Hey Sega, we love you too. Just don't make another Shadow the Hedgehog game ever again, okay?

Once you're done watching, you can do a little bit of reading at 1UP. They have a pretty detailed preview for you too.

JoystiqSega loves your PSP; unleashes new Crush video originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Feb 2007 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CrushPlatformerPuzzleSegaZoe-ModeTue, 13 Feb 2007 19:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Creating the surreal world of Crush]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/29/creating-the-surreal-world-of-crush/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/29/creating-the-surreal-world-of-crush/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/29/creating-the-surreal-world-of-crush/#commentsFiled under: ,


Cynics complain that the PSP has no innovative games. However, do their complaints have validity in the face of the upcoming PSP-exclusive Crush? This recently revealed title combines 2D and 3D gameplay through the innovative "crush" mechanic, and Paul Mottram spoke to Pocket Gamer about the challenges in creating the game. Mottram notes that the game was built with the PSP specifically in mind: the PSP was the only system to offer the horsepower and portability needed for this quick-thinking game.

The unique art style of the game takes its inspiration from a variety of sources. Mottram explains, "Our lead artist, Jon Taylor, worked closely with Sega's creative department to come up with a unique style. Influences ranged from Tim Burton, Terry Gilliam, Mike Mignola, Giorgio de Chirico, Max Ernst (or any of the surrealists), and Escher. We wanted to have a darker side to the game which carries through into the art style and even music. The main character, Danny, isn't a superhero; he's a sarcastic miserable everyday guy who just wants to get some sleep."

Read the full interview at Pocket Gamer.

Download the trailer:
PSP Fanboy Theatre: Volume 4

JoystiqCreating the surreal world of Crush originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Jan 2007 15:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CrushinterviewPaul-MottramPlatformerPuzzleSegaZoe-ModeMon, 29 Jan 2007 15:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Today's most revealing video: Crush gameplay footage]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/25/todays-most-revealing-video-crush-gameplay-footage/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/25/todays-most-revealing-video-crush-gameplay-footage/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/25/todays-most-revealing-video-crush-gameplay-footage/#commentsFiled under: , ,

One of the most popular YouTube gaming videos today showed off footage of Sega's recently unveiled original IP for the PSP, the platform-puzzler Crush. The puzzle element of the game comes from its ability to switch from a 3-dimensional space to a 2D platformer so as to cover wide gaps.

Confused? It's hard to explain, we suggest checking out the video, embedded after the break, to see what looks like a promising PSP release.

Continue reading Today's most revealing video: Crush gameplay footage

JoystiqToday's most revealing video: Crush gameplay footage originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Jan 2007 00:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CrushPlatformerPSPPuzzleSegaZoe-ModeThu, 25 Jan 2007 00:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Sega to Crush PSP [Update 1]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/24/sega-to-crush-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/24/sega-to-crush-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/24/sega-to-crush-psp/#commentsFiled under:


SEGA wants PSP players to prepare for a head trip. IGN is reporting that this summer SEGA will release a psychological puzzle game called Crush. Created by Kuju Brighton, Crush is about a man named Dan who is haunted by his past and suffers from chronic insomnia. To try and cure this problem, Dan turns to hypnosis. If that doesn't sound unique, just wait until you hear about the gameplay.

Crush takes place in a complex 3D world where players have to "crush" environments, which makes them then become 2D space. At this point the layout is like that of a 2D platformer. Because of the altering of the world, you're able to solve puzzles, access new areas and gain reach to secret items.

Sounds ridiculously creative. I can't wait to get my hands on it! See trailer after the cut.

[Update 1: Fixed formatting issues.]

Continue reading Sega to Crush PSP [Update 1]

JoystiqSega to Crush PSP [Update 1] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Jan 2007 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CrushPlatformerPuzzleSegaZoe-ModeWed, 24 Jan 2007 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Crush: Sega announces original PSP platform-puzzler]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/23/crush-sega-announces-original-psp-platform-puzzler/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/23/crush-sega-announces-original-psp-platform-puzzler/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/23/crush-sega-announces-original-psp-platform-puzzler/#commentsFiled under: ,

orange crushSega has revealed it will publish UK-based Kuju Brighton's hybrid PSP puzzler Crush. With the push of a button, player's will "crush" (more like flatten) the game's 3D world, transforming the environment into a 2D platformer. This mechanic will be used to complete various puzzles that are otherwise unsolvable in a 3D world. Afterwards, players will "uncrush" the environment and proceed.

Contrary to the implications of the image, Crush will have no affiliation with the soda brand (Sega's just being stingy -- or lazy -- with its screenshots). Instead, the game will tell the story of Dan, an insomniac who's chosen to undergo hypnosis. Crush (the game world and its puzzles) then would appear to be the manifestations of the "wreckage of his past." Let's just hope this seemingly convoluted story doesn't take away from an otherwise interesting gameplay dynamic. Crush is scheduled for release this summer.

[Via press release]

JoystiqCrush: Sega announces original PSP platform-puzzler originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Jan 2007 17:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CrushPlatformerPSPPuzzleSegaZoe-ModeTue, 23 Jan 2007 17:27:00 EST<![CDATA[VC Monday: Plus Four!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/11/vc-monday-plus-four/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/11/vc-monday-plus-four/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/11/vc-monday-plus-four/#commentsFiled under:

Nintendo promised something like ten a month, but at this rate, we'll be seeing sixteen. Nintendo dropped yet another four vintage goodies on us at noon EST today, and here are the pickings:
  • Ice Hockey (NES) - a much-loved hockey sim that, unfortunately, is beginning to show its age. Where is the ever-revered NHL '94 for SNES?
  • Gunstar Heroes (Sega Genesis) - If Jack Thompson had been as retarded in 1993 as he is now, he'd certainly have gone after this game. Much-lauded for its frenetic and gleeful gut-ripping gameplay, GH is considered one of Sega's best games. Check this 2-D shooter out.
  • Robotnik's Mean Bean Machine (Sega Genesis) - some beans are falling, or something, and you have to match them...whatever. We got Columns last week, didn't we?
  • Alien Crush (TG-16) - a rather odd pinball-sim involving scary aliens with a multitude of eyes. If you're into the pinball scene, go for it, if not, settle for some extraterrestrial orange soda. (Zing!)
We still, of course, anxiously await the previous announced Toe Jam and Earl. We wantsssss it!

JoystiqVC Monday: Plus Four! originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Dec 2006 13:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AlienBeanCrushGunstarHeroesHockeyIceMachineMeanMondayRobotnikVCMon, 11 Dec 2006 13:05:00 EST