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[Crysis 2 back on Steam with a clever new name, extra goodies]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/30/crysis-2-back-on-steam-with-a-clever-new-name-extra-goodies/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/30/crysis-2-back-on-steam-with-a-clever-new-name-extra-goodies/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/30/crysis-2-back-on-steam-with-a-clever-new-name-extra-goodies/#comments ImageCrysis 2 is back on Steam after being yanked in June because "an agreement with another download service" violated Steam's terms of service. The new, improved Crysis 2 is subtitled the "Maximum Edition" and it includes all the content in the limited edition, plus the Retaliation and Decimation DLC packs, all for $40.

Those who snagged Crysis 2 on Steam before it was pulled can get Maximum Edition for half off through June 12 at 10 a.m. PST. EA's other pulled or unreleased titles on Steam - namely Mass Effect 3 and Battlefield 3 - are still absent.

The new version, by including all the DLC, sidesteps the restrictions that kept the game off in the first place.

[Thanks, Steven!]

JoystiqCrysis 2 back on Steam with a clever new name, extra goodies originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 May 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crysis-2Crytekdigital-distributionEAElectronic-ArtspcSTEAMWed, 30 May 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Skyrim takes top honors at NY Video Game Critics Circle Awards]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/skyrim-takes-top-honors-at-ny-video-game-critics-circle-awards/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/skyrim-takes-top-honors-at-ny-video-game-critics-circle-awards/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/skyrim-takes-top-honors-at-ny-video-game-critics-circle-awards/#comments You'd have to be a fus-ro-dummy to think that Skyrim would be through with receiving accolades. At last night's New York Video Game Critics Circle Awards, the Bethesda Game Studios-developed RPG took home yet one more, earning the "Big Apple Award for Best Game" as decided by a cabal of NY-based game journos from various outlets.

Other winners include two apiece for Bastion and Portal 2, portable love for Super Mario 3D Land and Superbrothers: Sword and Sworcery EP, and explosive nods to both Crysis 2 and Saints Row: The Third. Harold Goldberg's "All Your Base Are Belong To Us" took home the "Algonquin Roundtable Award for Best Book" and Sony's "Michael" commercial won the "Mad Men Award," mysteriously beating out Robin Williams' luxurious beard. Frankly, we were baffled. The full list of winners can be found below the break.

Continue reading Skyrim takes top honors at NY Video Game Critics Circle Awards

JoystiqSkyrim takes top honors at NY Video Game Critics Circle Awards originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsall-your-base-are-belong-to-usbastionbethesdabethesda-game-studiosbethesda-softworkscantor-film-centercrysis-2elder-scrolls-5game-centerharold-goldbergiosipadiphonemicrosoftmobilenew-york-citynew-york-game-critics-circlenew-york-game-critics-circle-awardsnew-york-game-critics-circle-awards-2012new-york-universitynintendonyu-game-centerpcplaystationportal-2ps3saints-row-the-thirdskyrimsuper-mario-3d-landsuperbrothers-sword-and-sworcery-epthe-elder-scrolls-v-skyrimxboxFri, 03 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ico/Shadow of the Colossus heading to PSN next week; Crysis 2 and Tom Clancy classics too]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/13/ico-shadow-of-the-colossus-heading-to-psn-next-week-crysis-2-an/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/13/ico-shadow-of-the-colossus-heading-to-psn-next-week-crysis-2-an/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/13/ico-shadow-of-the-colossus-heading-to-psn-next-week-crysis-2-an/#comments This week's PlayStation Blogcast revealed that Ico and Shadow of the Colossus will be available next Tuesday, January 17, through the PlayStation Network. Regularly priced $40 at retail as a bundle, the two games will be $20 apiece on the PSN.

Other retail games being added to the PSN next week include Crysis 2 for $40, along with Tom Clancy titles Rainbow Six Vegas and Splinter Cell: Double Agent for $20 each.

If the idea of touching discs has held you back from Ico or Shadow of the Colossus, now's the time to check out these artistic milestones.

JoystiqIco/Shadow of the Colossus heading to PSN next week; Crysis 2 and Tom Clancy classics too originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Jan 2012 13:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crysis-2ico-and-shadow-of-the-colossus-collectionplaystationps3PSNPSN-Storerainbow-six-vegasrelease-dateSplinter-Cell-Double-AgentFri, 13 Jan 2012 13:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon offering dramatic discounts on digital EA games starting this Sunday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/amazon-offering-dramatic-discounts-on-digital-ea-games-starting/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/amazon-offering-dramatic-discounts-on-digital-ea-games-starting/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/amazon-offering-dramatic-discounts-on-digital-ea-games-starting/#comments Amazon doesn't care for your silly stack of unplayed, unopened games -- it simply wants to trick you into buying more with a variety of impressive deals, albeit on games that exist only in the digital realm. Starting this coming Sunday (the 15th) and running through the end of the week (the 21st), individual EA titles will be offered day by day at ridiculously discounted prices: Bulletstorm and Dead Space 2 for $7 a pop, for instance.

The daily itemized list is just after the break, should you be preparing for yet another (admittedly minor) assault on your bank account in the effort to catch up on 2011's best games. Might we suggest conquering the concept of time scarcity first?

Continue reading Amazon offering dramatic discounts on digital EA games starting this Sunday

JoystiqAmazon offering dramatic discounts on digital EA games starting this Sunday originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Jan 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alice-madness-returnsamazonbattlefield-bad-company-2Bulletstormcrysis-2dead-space-2dragon-age-2dragon-age-originsmacmedal-of-honorpcThu, 12 Jan 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Crysis 2 is the most pirated game of 2011]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/03/report-crysis-2-is-the-most-pirated-game-of-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/03/report-crysis-2-is-the-most-pirated-game-of-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/03/report-crysis-2-is-the-most-pirated-game-of-2011/#comments Who pillaged the most booty in 2011? Which vessel had the most ornate mast? ... Wait, we've got it all wrong -- these aren't the pirate pirate awards for 2011, they're the most pirated games of the year. Can you guess which game took top ... um ... "honors?"

TorrentFreak has tossed out some estimate figures, saying that Crysis 2 was downloaded 3.9 million times over BitTorrent since March, edging out Modern Warfare 3, which was downloaded an estimated 3.6 million times since November. Taking third place on its list was Battlefield 3 with an estimated 3.5 million downloads. Rounding out the top five on the PC side were FIFA 12 and Portal 2.

There are also estimated figures for Xbox 360 and Wii games -- Gears of War 3 and Super Mario Galaxy 2 were the most pirated games with 890,000 and 1.2 million estimated downloads, respectively.

JoystiqReport: Crysis 2 is the most pirated game of 2011 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Jan 2012 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>babypiratesCrysis-2eamicrosoftnintendopcpiracywiixboxTue, 03 Jan 2012 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Crysis 2 for $10 today, Battlefield 3 for $30 tomorrow through Amazon for PC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/31/crysis-2-for-10-today-battlefield-3-for-30-tomorrow-through-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/31/crysis-2-for-10-today-battlefield-3-for-30-tomorrow-through-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/31/crysis-2-for-10-today-battlefield-3-for-30-tomorrow-through-a/#comments $10 will buy a lot of missiles In addition to Amazon's EA sale going on now through its PC digital distribution network, there are a couple noteworthy additions to the roster today and tomorrow. Today, Crysis 2 is available for $10, a 75 percent discount off the regular price.

Starting 2012 with a flashbang, Amazon will have Battlefield 3 for $30 on the first of the year. Also relevant here is customers who have purchased anything from Amazon's "best-selling games of 2011" should have a $5 coupon that can be applied in the new year, bringing it down to $25. That's a great price for a game that's been beta-tested since launch to the point of playability.

JoystiqCrysis 2 for $10 today, Battlefield 3 for $30 tomorrow through Amazon for PC originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 31 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AmazonBattlefield-3Crysis-2CrytekDICEEAElectronic-ArtspcSat, 31 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Crysis 2 for $10, Portal 2 for $16 and more from GameFly]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/09/xbox-crysis-2-for-10-portal-2-for-16-and-more-from-gamefly/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/09/xbox-crysis-2-for-10-portal-2-for-16-and-more-from-gamefly/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/09/xbox-crysis-2-for-10-portal-2-for-16-and-more-from-gamefly/#comments $10 will buy a lot of missiles It's not unusual to find good deals on GameFly's free shipping page, but $10 for Crysis 2 is a great deal by any stretch. GameFly is offering several other titles on the cheap as well, including the PS3 version of Portal 2 for $16.19 ($18 on Xbox), Alan Wake for $12, Duke Nukem Forever or Red Faction: Armageddon for $9. You can even snag Dead Space 2, Bulletstorm, Dragon Age 2, FEAR 3 and several other for under $20 each.

And, as the name of the "free shipping" page suggests, shipping is free.

JoystiqXbox Crysis 2 for $10, Portal 2 for $16 and more from GameFly originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Nov 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crysis-2microsoftnintendoplaystationps3wiixboxWed, 09 Nov 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Anonymous Tumblr account accuses Crytek of employee mistreatment]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/05/anonymous-tumblr-account-accuses-crytek-of-employee-mistreatment/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/05/anonymous-tumblr-account-accuses-crytek-of-employee-mistreatment/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/05/anonymous-tumblr-account-accuses-crytek-of-employee-mistreatment/#comments
A CEO with a big personality? A game with a high-profile delay? Disgruntled employees? You'd think we were talking about LA Noire and soon-to-be-defunct studio Team Bondi - or, uh, Red Dead Redemption, now that we think about it - but you'd be wrong! Nope, this time it's German developer Crytek in the crosshairs of an anonymous Tumblr account alleging a whole host of unsavory management practices.

Continue reading Anonymous Tumblr account accuses Crytek of employee mistreatment

JoystiqAnonymous Tumblr account accuses Crytek of employee mistreatment originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Sep 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crysis-2microsoftpcplaystationps3rysexboxMon, 05 Sep 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[CryEngine 3 SDK available now for free]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/cryengine-3-sdk-available-now-for-free/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/cryengine-3-sdk-available-now-for-free/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/cryengine-3-sdk-available-now-for-free/#comments Above: An early, work-in-progress screenshot of Joystiq Publishing's atmospheric and haunting adventure, Fears for Spheres. We just whipped it up in the last 20 minutes with the aid of the CryEngine 3 SDK, which is now available for free from the CryDev website.

With access to the engine that powered Crysis 2, as well as the CryEngine 3 Sandbox level editor, we've been able to breathe perfectly lit life into our artistic (and non-commercial) endeavor. If we were trying to impart some educational information in a classroom, developer Crytek wouldn't charge us a cent either. (It's a competitive stance, considering the Unreal Development Kit is free as well. Both require users to pay a licensing fee if the project becomes commercial.)

Though this SDK has helped us to quickly arrange terrain, AI and textures, the central "narrative" -- as they say -- of Fears for Spheres has been years in the making.

Embark on the tragic journey of Borb, the reflective amnesiac sphere, cursed to wander/wonder through a fantasy realm in search of his true purpose. "Who am I?" he asks a traveler in passing. "I know not," comes the reply, "but you have shown me much of myself today. Such is your thankless existence."

Continue reading CryEngine 3 SDK available now for free

JoystiqCryEngine 3 SDK available now for free originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Aug 2011 17:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crydevcryengine-3cryengine-sdkCrysis-2crytekfears-for-spherespcWed, 17 Aug 2011 17:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Crysis 2 ships 3 million]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/26/crysis-2-ships-3-million-dead-space-2-at-around-2-million/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/26/crysis-2-ships-3-million-dead-space-2-at-around-2-million/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/26/crysis-2-ships-3-million-dead-space-2-at-around-2-million/#comments The most memorable sales numbers we've heard about an EA game recently were not good (see: Shadows of the Damned's disappointing debut). EA has some much happier numbers to report (about other games) in its latest quarterly earnings report.

According to the report, Crysis 2 has "sold in" (shipped) "approximately three million units" since its March release, adding another million since last quarter.

You want some more big numbers? How about 15 million FIFA 11 shipments (including various mobile and downloadable versions), and 9 million of Battlefield Bad Company 2? The document is full of large numbers in various denominations; we'll talk about some of the others soon.

JoystiqCrysis 2 ships 3 million originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Jul 2011 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crysis-2dead-space-2eaearningselectronic-artsfy-2012microsoftpcplaystationps3q1salesxboxTue, 26 Jul 2011 16:40:00 EST<![CDATA[EA's DeMartini claims Origin has 'never been about' competing with Steam]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/eas-demartini-claims-origin-has-never-been-about-competing-wi/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/eas-demartini-claims-origin-has-never-been-about-competing-wi/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/eas-demartini-claims-origin-has-never-been-about-competing-wi/#comments In a recent forum post, David DeMartini, EA's Senior VP of Global E-Commerce, expressed that gamers should be able to buy EA titles on any site they want, including Steam ... unless, that is, Steam doesn't want them to. Last month's disappearance of Crysis 2 from Valve's service, DeMartini explained, was actually the result of a business deal whereby certain DLC for the game couldn't appear on Steam, and thus Valve removed the title from its service completely.

The veep went on to say that EA's Origin platform is a choice for game buyers, not an exclusive outlet for all of the publisher's content going forward. Along with its developers, EA is "working to integrate more and more between the game and Origin," but DeMartini is "absolutely not at this point saying, 'hey, it's Origin versus Steam.' It's never been about that."

However, DeMartini's words and EA's actions don't exactly line up. According to the company's policy, EA wants to "continue offering our games for sale on all major download sites." Star Wars: The Old Republic doesn't count, it seems, as that title will only be available for download from its Origin service.

JoystiqEA's DeMartini claims Origin has 'never been about' competing with Steam originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jul 2011 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crysis-2david-demartinidigital-downloaddigital-saleseaea-originoriginpcstar-wars-the-old-republicsteamWed, 06 Jul 2011 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Crysis 2 upgrades to maximum graphics on the PC, get the patch here]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/27/crysis-2-upgrades-to-maximum-graphics-on-the-pc-get-the-patch-h/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/27/crysis-2-upgrades-to-maximum-graphics-on-the-pc-get-the-patch-h/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/27/crysis-2-upgrades-to-maximum-graphics-on-the-pc-get-the-patch-h/#comments After establishing a reputation for cutting edge graphics with the original Crysis, many PC gamers were disappointed with the fact that Crysis 2 did not support DirectX 11. It left their high-performance rigs feeling underutilized. Well, that underutilization comes to an end today, since Crytek officially released two free upgrade packages that will push video cards to the limit and cause you to overdose on eye candy.

After upgrading the game to v1.9 via automatic update, you can download and install the DX11 Ultra Upgrade, which adds features like tessellation and displacement mapping, realistic shadows and more. To amp things up even further, grab the Hi Res Texture Pack, which includes impressive graphical improvements whether you're using DX11 or DX9 (64-bit OS and at least 768 MB of video card memory required). Check out the trailer after the jump to see what's in store.

Download the Crysis 2 DirectX 11 Ultra Upgrade (545 MB)
Download the Crysis 2 Hi Res Texture Pack (1.65 GB)

Gallery: Crysis 2 (DirectX 11)

Continue reading Crysis 2 upgrades to maximum graphics on the PC, get the patch here

JoystiqCrysis 2 upgrades to maximum graphics on the PC, get the patch here originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 27 Jun 2011 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crysis+2crysis+2+dx11+performancecrysis+2+graphics+updatecrysis+2+patchcrysis+2+updateCrysis-2crysis2crysis2dx11performancecrysis2graphicsupdatecrysis2patchcrysis2updatecrytekDirectX-11Directx11dx11dx11-ultra-upgradeeapatchpctexture-packMon, 27 Jun 2011 17:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Crysis 2 DirectX 11 update coming June 27, some users already have it]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/23/crysis-2-directx-11-update-coming-june-27-some-users-already-ha/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/23/crysis-2-directx-11-update-coming-june-27-some-users-already-ha/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/23/crysis-2-directx-11-update-coming-june-27-some-users-already-ha/#comments Crytek announced a new "package" for Crysis 2 that will add compatibility with DirectX 11, which should improve the graphics significantly for people who are desperately looking for specific improvements that they know DirectX 11 can provide, and improve the graphics a little for everyone else too. A high-resolution texture pack will be available at the same time.

However, it would appear that some users already have the packages. Crytek noted in an update to the announcement that "a number of users were able to download the DX11 and High res texture packages from our test environment," a leak that has since been closed. The rest of us will get to look at those textures, lit by those no-doubt improved lighting effects, on Monday, June 27. A patch will also go out the same day -- it's required for the new textures and the DX11 compatibility.

JoystiqCrysis 2 DirectX 11 update coming June 27, some users already have it originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Jun 2011 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crysis-2crytekdirectx-11electronic-artspatchpctexture-packupdateThu, 23 Jun 2011 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Crytek denies it has new Xbox hardware]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/17/crytek-denies-it-has-new-xbox-hardware/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/17/crytek-denies-it-has-new-xbox-hardware/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/17/crytek-denies-it-has-new-xbox-hardware/#comments Earlier this week, Videogamer reported a rumor that the next generation of Microsoft hardware would be unveiled at E3 2012 and that Crytek already had its mitts on it, supposedly developing TimeSplitters 4 -- which would also be shown off at next year's annual trade show. However, according to the latest Crytek newsletter, it's all baloney.
"Relating to the recent rumours, Crytek do not have any next generation hardware from Microsoft, nor do we know when Microsoft may announce future hardware or what that hardware will entail. Crytek are working at pushing the boundaries of what current technology can bring, including our focus on DX11 which will be released shortly as an update for Crysis 2, and we believe this work, added to our estimations of what the new hardware will provide, set up CryENGINE as a next generation engine for all consoles."
Besides, it wouldn't make much sense for Microsoft to announce a new console when it's all gung-ho on Kinect right now -- unless the new console uses Kinect. You guys, we think we just figured it out!

JoystiqCrytek denies it has new Xbox hardware originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 Jun 2011 18:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crysis-2crytekdebunkmicrosoftxboxFri, 17 Jun 2011 18:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Crysis 2 ditching Steam not an EA decision; Origin-exclusive titles planned]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/15/crysis-2-ditching-steam-not-an-ea-decision-origin-exclusive-tit/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/15/crysis-2-ditching-steam-not-an-ea-decision-origin-exclusive-tit/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/15/crysis-2-ditching-steam-not-an-ea-decision-origin-exclusive-tit/#comments Earlier today, Crysis 2 and other notable EA titles vanished from Steam. Initially thought to be a decision involving EA's new digital platform, Origin, it turns out EA didn't really have a hand in its expulsion from Valve's service -- apparently "Crytek has an agreement with another download service" which violates some new rules imposed by Steam, resulting in the "expulsion of Crysis 2 from Steam," according to comments made by EA to Giant Bomb.

Neither Valve nor EA are talking about what these "new rules" are, but all signs point to Origin. Crysis 2 is available there, as are other games pulled from Steam -- Alice: Madness Returns can only be found on Origin (until June 17, it appears), though several other notable EA titles such as Battlefield: Bad Company 2, Dragon Age 2 and Bulletstorm still remain on Steam.

In the future, EA hopes to offer exclusive content through its Origins portal, including games. Frank Gibeau, president of EA Games, told GI.biz that "EA's going to have some of our own platform exclusives" on the new service. This includes Star Wars: The Old Republic, which will only be offered through Origin.

"I think long-term you'll see we believe in reach so we will have other digital retailers for our products because we want to reach as many audiences as possible," Gibeau said. "But at the same time if we can use exclusive content or other ideas to help grow our audience then we're going to do that because we're growing a platform."

JoystiqCrysis 2 ditching Steam not an EA decision; Origin-exclusive titles planned originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Jun 2011 15:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crysis-2crytekdigital-distributioneaoriginpcsteamvalveWed, 15 Jun 2011 15:53:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Crysis 2 'Decimation Pack' DLC out now for Xbox 360, PC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/15/psa-crysis-2-decimation-pack-dlc-out-now-for-xbox-360-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/15/psa-crysis-2-decimation-pack-dlc-out-now-for-xbox-360-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/15/psa-crysis-2-decimation-pack-dlc-out-now-for-xbox-360-pc/#comments It's an ongoing Crysis -- EA and Crytek have launched the second DLC expansion for Crysis 2, dubbed the Decimation Pack, for Xbox 360 and PC. Available right now via the Xbox Live Marketplace and as an in-game purchase for PC, the 800 MSP ($10) add-on content brings five new maps and two new weapons to the Crysis sequel's multiplayer mode.

The added maps are: 5th Avenue, Apartments, Chasm, Plaza and Prism. Players' arsenals have been expanded with the long-range FY71 assault rifle and smoke grenades. This is the second multiplayer DLC for the game, which received the Retaliation Pack -- adding four new maps -- last month.

Look for the the Decimation Pack to arrive on PS3 June 28. See the new maps and weapons in action after the break.

Continue reading PSA: Crysis 2 'Decimation Pack' DLC out now for Xbox 360, PC

JoystiqPSA: Crysis 2 'Decimation Pack' DLC out now for Xbox 360, PC originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Jun 2011 15:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crysis-2crytekdlceaelectronic-artsfpsmicrosoftpcxblmxboxWed, 15 Jun 2011 15:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Crysis 2 offers double XP this weekend for ambitious nanosoldiers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/26/crysis-2-offers-double-xp-this-weekend-for-ambitious-nanosoldier/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/26/crysis-2-offers-double-xp-this-weekend-for-ambitious-nanosoldier/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/26/crysis-2-offers-double-xp-this-weekend-for-ambitious-nanosoldier/#comments Want to jump twice as high, run twice as fast, and shoot bullets that are twice the size of regular bullets? You ... um, can't. But, if you play Crysis 2 multiplayer this weekend, you'll be able to unlock the game's nanomechanical power-ups twice as quickly.

Continue reading Crysis 2 offers double XP this weekend for ambitious nanosoldiers

JoystiqCrysis 2 offers double XP this weekend for ambitious nanosoldiers originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 May 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crysis-2crytekdouble-xpdouble-xp-weekendeamicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxThu, 26 May 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon Gold Box marking down games all day, Crysis 2 is deal of the day]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/18/amazon-gold-box-marking-down-games-all-day-crysis-2-is-deal-of/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/18/amazon-gold-box-marking-down-games-all-day-crysis-2-is-deal-of/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/18/amazon-gold-box-marking-down-games-all-day-crysis-2-is-deal-of/#comments Once again, Amazon has elected to mark down select video games across a number of platforms as part of its Gold Box promotion. Check out the remaining clues after the jump! If you're not a fan of uncertainty, you can also grab Crysis 2 for $35 in Amazon's Deal of the Day.

Continue reading Amazon Gold Box marking down games all day, Crysis 2 is deal of the day

JoystiqAmazon Gold Box marking down games all day, Crysis 2 is deal of the day originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 May 2011 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonCrysis-2deal-of-the-daygold-boxmicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxWed, 18 May 2011 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Crysis 2 getting 'Retaliation' DLC on May 17]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/10/crysis-2-getting-retaliation-dlc-on-may-17/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/10/crysis-2-getting-retaliation-dlc-on-may-17/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/10/crysis-2-getting-retaliation-dlc-on-may-17/#comments The cybernetic suits of Crysis 2 will soon leap, slide, shoot, and ground-stomp each other in four new DLC maps: "Park Avenue, Transit, Shipyard, and Compound." They're set to drop on May 17 as the "Retaliation" map pack.

The add-on is coming to Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and PC, though its availability on PS3 is dependent on whether or not PSN is back up by next week. No price is given in the announcement, nor the trailer, so we'll try to find out for you.

Update: An EA rep confirmed with Joystiq a price of 800 MS Points/$9.99 for the DLC.

Gallery: Crysis 2 Retaliation Pack

Continue reading Crysis 2 getting 'Retaliation' DLC on May 17

JoystiqCrysis 2 getting 'Retaliation' DLC on May 17 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 May 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crysis-2crytekdlcdownloadable-contenteaelectronic-artsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3psnretaliationretaliation-packxboxxbox-liveTue, 10 May 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EA grows digital sales in Q4, stems losses for fiscal year]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/ea-grows-digital-sales-in-q4-stems-losses-for-fiscal-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/ea-grows-digital-sales-in-q4-stems-losses-for-fiscal-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/ea-grows-digital-sales-in-q4-stems-losses-for-fiscal-year/#comments EA enjoyed solid growth in the final quarter of its 2011 fiscal year (ending March 31), thanks in large part to a bump in digital revenue. Digital sales were up $67 million from the same period a year ago to $211 million. Good ol' boxed games weren't slouching though, as packaged goods revenue increased $44 million up to $838 million. In all, EA rebounded from its rough Q3 to record $151 million in profit during the fiscal fourth quarter.

The engine for that growth was a surprisingly impressive quarterly lineup for the company. Seven of its titles from fiscal Q4 have surpassed 1 million units shipped, with Crysis 2, Dead Space 2 and Dragon Age 2 all over the 2-million-shipped mark. DLC for those titles (like Dead Space 2's "Severed" add-on) was the cornerstone of digital profits, as well. Over its entire 2011 fiscal year, EA shipped 12 million units of FIFA 11, 7 million copies of Bad Company 2 (released at the tail end of FY10), and five million each of Medal of Honor, Hot Pursuit and Madden 11.

But it seems that, in the grand scheme, these titles weren't enough to alter EA's fortunes for the fiscal year, which ended in a $267 million loss for the company. We suppose there's still a bit of a silver lining, however -- those losses would seem to sting considerably less than the $677 million lost by EA just one year prior.

JoystiqEA grows digital sales in Q4, stems losses for fiscal year originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 May 2011 17:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-bad-company-2crysis-2dead-space-2dragon-age-2dseaearningselectronic-artsfifa-11financialfy-2011madden-nfl-11medal-of-honormicrosoftmobileneed-for-speed-hot-pursuitnintendopcplaystationps3pspq4salessonywiixboxWed, 04 May 2011 17:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Over 250 universities sign up for CryEngine 3 educational license]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/29/over-250-universities-sign-up-for-cryengine-3-educational-licens/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/29/over-250-universities-sign-up-for-cryengine-3-educational-licens/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/29/over-250-universities-sign-up-for-cryengine-3-educational-licens/#comments Back in November of 2009, Crytek detailed plans to offer free licenses to universities wishing to work with CryEngine 3. Apparently quite a few showed interest -- more than 250 different institutions over the last year, to be exact.

A missive on Crytek's site reads: "Academic institutions in a wide variety of fields including physics, computer science, architecture, film-making, art and design use Crytek's all-in-one game development solution for their projects." This should ensure that not only will future video games feature gun-wielding super soldiers in billion-dollar nanosuits, but also movies, paintings, science projects, book reports, fashion magazines and all of the skyscrapers downtown.

[Thanks, Andreas]

JoystiqOver 250 universities sign up for CryEngine 3 educational license originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Apr 2011 20:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cryenginecryengine-3CryENGINE-3-Educational-SDKcryengine-3-sdkCrysis-2educationmicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxFri, 29 Apr 2011 20:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon offers Crysis 2 for $40, that nano-suits us just fine]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/26/amazon-offers-crysis-2-for-40-that-nano-suits-us-just-fine/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/26/amazon-offers-crysis-2-for-40-that-nano-suits-us-just-fine/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/26/amazon-offers-crysis-2-for-40-that-nano-suits-us-just-fine/#comments We know you're having a hard time choosing between all the different nanomachine-infused, suit-centric first-person shooters set in a ruined New York City. Why not go with the cheap one? Amazon's marked down Crysis 2 to $39.95 as its current deal of the day.

Continue reading Amazon offers Crysis 2 for $40, that nano-suits us just fine

JoystiqAmazon offers Crysis 2 for $40, that nano-suits us just fine originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Apr 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonCrysis-2crytekeamicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxTue, 26 Apr 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Crysis 2 editor coming this summer, CryEngine 3 SDK in August]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/23/crysis-2-editor-coming-this-summer-cryengine-3-sdk-in-august/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/23/crysis-2-editor-coming-this-summer-cryengine-3-sdk-in-august/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/23/crysis-2-editor-coming-this-summer-cryengine-3-sdk-in-august/#comments Cevat Yerli, CEO of Crytek, has posted an extensive open letter to Crysis 2 modders on Crymod.com laying out an impressive future for the CryEngine mod scene. First and foremost, Yerli confirms that a Crysis 2 editor is coming this summer, but that news is overshadowed by the announcement of a free CryEngine 3 development kit, which Crytek is making available in August.

Essentially, anyone who wants to will be able to download "the latest, greatest version of CryEngine 3," and go to town with everything from the engine code to actual game sample code (from Crysis 2), scripts and all of the tools Crytek used to make Crysis 2. This is big news for modders, as it presents a viable, no-cost alternative to Unreal Engine 3 (which has a similar plan available) and access to all of the shiny features for anyone interested -- though developers who wish to release a game commercially will still have to license the engine.

[Thanks, Jackal]

JoystiqCrysis 2 editor coming this summer, CryEngine 3 SDK in August originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 23 Apr 2011 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cevat-yerlicryengine-3cryengine-3-sdkcrysis-2crytekeditormodspcSat, 23 Apr 2011 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Zumba keeps on dancing atop UK charts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/18/zumba-keeps-on-dancing-atop-uk-charts/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/18/zumba-keeps-on-dancing-atop-uk-charts/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/18/zumba-keeps-on-dancing-atop-uk-charts/#comments
Zumba Fitness, which recently launched on Wii, has been working out in the top spot on the UK sales charts for a second week. With Zumba Fitness on the lips (and working those hips) of the populace, the Xbox 360 version also saw a 14 percent sales increase.

Lego Star Wars 3: The Clone Wars and Crysis 2 dueled for second, but ultimately the multiplatform blockheads used The Force to push the billion-dollar nanosuit down into third.

Chart-Track notes that the upcoming Easter holiday spurred plenty of retailer sales, which likely contributed to strong sales increases of Call of Duty: Black Ops (+62%, #9), Lego Harry Potter: Years 1-4 (+112%, #11) and Red Dead Redemption (+458%, #13). Head past the break for the top ten.

Continue reading Zumba keeps on dancing atop UK charts

JoystiqZumba keeps on dancing atop UK charts originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Apr 2011 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chart-trackchart-track-weeklycrysis-2FIFA-11lego-star-wars-3-the-clone-warsmicrosoftnintendoplaystationps3tiger-woods-pga-tour-12-the-masterswiixboxzumba-fitnessMon, 18 Apr 2011 09:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Multiplatform Crysis 2 brings 'a better game to everyone,' Crytek says]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/17/multiplatform-crysis-2-brings-a-better-game-to-everyone-cryte/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/17/multiplatform-crysis-2-brings-a-better-game-to-everyone-cryte/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/17/multiplatform-crysis-2-brings-a-better-game-to-everyone-cryte/#comments When Crytek announced that the third iteration of its ambitious CryEngine technology would appear on both PC and consoles, a portion of its hardcore fans became skeptical -- would the engine's progression be hampered by a dumbed-down ball-and-chain?

The company's R&D principal graphics engineer, Tiago Sousa, responds to that mindset in a new interview with Digital Foundry, saying that a multiplatform approach in developing Crysis 2 was beneficial to the company's central goal -- which is to make big-budget games, not just budget-hostile benchmarks. "The PC market just does not support that cost of development, but going multi-platform does," Sousa said. "If making a game that is bigger, better, more stable, performs better across a wider range of hardware, provides a continued visual benchmark for PC gaming, and more fun with a huge single-player and multiplayer offering is considered selling out, that seems like a really odd application of the phrase. The decision to go multi-platform has allowed us to bring a better game to everyone, which has been our goal all along."

That isn't to say Crytek opted for the easy route. The interview highlights Crytek's struggles with limited memory on consoles (just 512MB on the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3), adjusting its workflow to eliminate the reliance on a single lead platform, and a lighting feature that didn't quite make the cut for every system. Oh, and you won't believe how much triangle culling there is. Just ... relentless slaughter of triangles, left and right.

JoystiqMultiplatform Crysis 2 brings 'a better game to everyone,' Crytek says originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 17 Apr 2011 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cryengine-3Crysis-2crytekeamicrosoftpcplaystationps3tiago-sousaxboxSun, 17 Apr 2011 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Zumba Fitness overtakes Crysis 2 for top UK sales spot]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/11/zumba-fitness-overtakes-crysis-2-for-top-uk-sales-spot/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/11/zumba-fitness-overtakes-crysis-2-for-top-uk-sales-spot/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/11/zumba-fitness-overtakes-crysis-2-for-top-uk-sales-spot/#comments
Zumba Fitness and Crysis 2 both moved significantly less product last week in the UK. With only 500 copies separating the two the prior week, the 57 percent drop by Crysis 2 and the 47 percent decline by Zumba Fitness meant the latter took the lead.

It seems that "winning" the sales chart last week was all about having the lowest decline in sales, as almost every game in the top six saw a 40-something percent drop (Chart-Track speculates it was the UK's warm weather). This led to Lego Star Wars 3: The Clone Wars forcing itself to maintain third place, while Tiger Woods PGA Tour 12: The Masters climbed up two spots into fourth and Shift 2: Unleashed decelerated into fifth.

Tecmo-Koei's Dynasty Warriors 7 was the only new entry in the Top 40, button-mashing itself all the way up to tenth place. Observe the UK top ten after the break.

Continue reading Zumba Fitness overtakes Crysis 2 for top UK sales spot

JoystiqZumba Fitness overtakes Crysis 2 for top UK sales spot originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Apr 2011 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chart-trackchart-track-weeklyCrysis-2lego-star-wars-3-the-clone-warsmicrosoftnintendoplaystationps3Shift-2-Unleashedtiger-woods-pga-tour-12-the-masterswiixboxzumba-fitnessMon, 11 Apr 2011 09:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Crytek confirms it's working on a DirectX 11 patch for Crysis 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/08/crytek-confirms-its-working-on-a-directx-11-patch-for-crysis-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/08/crytek-confirms-its-working-on-a-directx-11-patch-for-crysis-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/08/crytek-confirms-its-working-on-a-directx-11-patch-for-crysis-2/#comments Crytek has posted that, yes, the team is currently working on a DirectX 11 patch for Crysis 2. There are no details yet on when to expect it or what exactly it will do (early rumors of the patch, debunked by Crytek, suggested it would unlock an advanced graphics mode), but of course it will enable DirectX 11 compatibility for the game. Crytek says it wants to "get the best out of DX11."

The patch can't come too soon for poor PC Crysis 2 players -- as you can see above, they're really suffering. Who would bother ever playing a PC game that looked as bad as that?

[Thanks, Brian R.]

JoystiqCrytek confirms it's working on a DirectX 11 patch for Crysis 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Apr 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crysis-2crytekdirectx-11fpsgraphicspcFri, 08 Apr 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Crysis 2 in stylish slow-motion (not a framerate joke)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/04/crysis-2-in-stylish-slow-motion-not-a-framerate-joke/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/04/crysis-2-in-stylish-slow-motion-not-a-framerate-joke/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/04/crysis-2-in-stylish-slow-motion-not-a-framerate-joke/#comments In revising its flagship engine to support a wider range of platforms, Crytek has subtly introduced an entirely different kind of obsolescence. This slow-mo video of Crysis 2, infused with glorious explosions and some LCD Soundsystem, can no longer be the setup for a "slow computer" joke.

Continue reading Crysis 2 in stylish slow-motion (not a framerate joke)

JoystiqCrysis 2 in stylish slow-motion (not a framerate joke) originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Apr 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crysis-2crytekealcd-soundsystemmicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxMon, 04 Apr 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Crysis 2 holds back Zumba Fitness invasion on UK charts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/04/crysis-2-holds-back-zumba-fitness-invasion-on-uk-charts/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/04/crysis-2-holds-back-zumba-fitness-invasion-on-uk-charts/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/04/crysis-2-holds-back-zumba-fitness-invasion-on-uk-charts/#comments
Crysis 2 barely held off Zumba Fitness from taking the top spot on the UK sales chart last week, with only 500 copies separating the two, according to Chart-Track. The Zumba rise in the all-formats chart (up 3,148 percent) was triggered by the Wii version's launch on April 1 (no joke).

Lego Star Wars 3: The Clone Wars slipped one spot into third, while Shift 2: Unleashed debuted in fourth. Fellow racer Motorstorm: Apocalypse didn't have such a stellar premiere in position 17, perhaps due in part to some launch hiccups.

Homefront lost a little ground last week, retreating back to fifth. Keeping THQ's heavily marketed first-person shooter company were two new chart entrants: Tiger Woods PGA Tour 12: The Masters and WWE All Stars, which premiered in sixth and seventh, respectively.

Activate power mode and sprint past the break for the UK top ten.

Continue reading Crysis 2 holds back Zumba Fitness invasion on UK charts

JoystiqCrysis 2 holds back Zumba Fitness invasion on UK charts originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Apr 2011 09:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Chart-Trackchart-track-weeklyCrysis-2Homefrontlego-star-wars-3-the-clone-warsmicrosoftnintendoplaystationps3wiixboxZumba-FitnessMon, 04 Apr 2011 09:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Crysis 2 and 3DS premieres shake up UK top ten]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/28/crysis-2-and-3ds-premieres-shake-up-uk-top-ten/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/28/crysis-2-and-3ds-premieres-shake-up-uk-top-ten/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/28/crysis-2-and-3ds-premieres-shake-up-uk-top-ten/#comments
Crysis 2 and the Nintendo 3DS both disrupted the steady order of the UK all-formats charts last week, with Crytek's showcase shooter taking top spot in software. According to Chart-Track, the distribution of sales across formats for Crysis 2 gave 57 percent to Xbox 360, 29 percent to PS3 and 14 percent on PC -- of course, the company doesn't account for digital distribution, which would likely alter the PC figure.

Other chart-topping debuts last week included Lego Star Wars 3: The Clone Wars in second and The Sims: Medieval in seventh. The 3DS premiere helped launch Super Street Fighter 4 3D Edition, Pilotwings Resort and Rayman 3D into the overall top ten, with Capcom's portable fighter winding up in fourth as the most popular launch title for the system. The 3DS version of Lego Star Wars 3 was the fifth most successful title for 3DS, just below Super Monkey Ball 3D.

Meanwhile, last week's chart-topper, Homefront, lost a little ground and fell back to third place. Check out the UK top ten after the break.

Continue reading Crysis 2 and 3DS premieres shake up UK top ten

JoystiqCrysis 2 and 3DS premieres shake up UK top ten originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Mar 2011 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chart-trackchart-track-weeklyCrysis-2dshomefrontlego-star-wars-3-the-clone-warsmicrosoftnintendoplaystationps3wiixboxMon, 28 Mar 2011 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Crysis 2 PC update released, removes auto-aim]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/26/crysis-2-pc-update-released-removes-auto-aim/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/26/crysis-2-pc-update-released-removes-auto-aim/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/26/crysis-2-pc-update-released-removes-auto-aim/#comments Though the (already worked-around) errors affecting some Crysis 2 PC players who are trying to activate their game online still haven't been patched out, Crytek launched an update earlier this week which fixes a few other errant bugs. These include measurements for blocking cheaters, hang-ups that affected matchmaking and problems with certain brands of USB headsets. Check out a full list of the updates after the jump.

The most controversial of these changes is the wholesale removal of auto-aim, a decision Crytek made "due to overwhelming community feedback." Sounds like beta participants weren't too crazy about the feature -- though, really, doesn't the idea of guns that aim for you kind of fit into Crysis' nanomachine-enhanced canon?

Continue reading Crysis 2 PC update released, removes auto-aim

JoystiqCrysis 2 PC update released, removes auto-aim originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 26 Mar 2011 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crysis-2crytekeapatchpcupdateSat, 26 Mar 2011 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Patch coming for Crysis 2 PC multiplayer key issues, workaround detailed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/patch-coming-for-crysis-2-pc-multiplayer-key-issues-workaround/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/patch-coming-for-crysis-2-pc-multiplayer-key-issues-workaround/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/patch-coming-for-crysis-2-pc-multiplayer-key-issues-workaround/#comments Crytek is working to release a Crysis 2 patch to correct two errors associated with multiplayer activation keys for the PC version of the game, a representative confirmed on the game's official MyCrysis Forums. In the meantime, the developer has laid out a workaround intended to side-step both users' inability to save their keys in the system (and thus forcing would-be players to re-enter the codes) and the erroneous error that claims, "Serial number in use." It's a three-step move, to be precise:

  1. "Load Crysis 2, go to multiplayer and type in your key"
  2. "Navigate back to Single Player"
  3. "Go back into multiplayer and re-enter your key"
The majority of responses in the forum thread indicates that the workaround does bypass the two issues, though apparently it doesn't ameliorate scattered reports of server crashes and game freezing; to say nothing of the two big topics on account login integration and promo code redemption issues.

JoystiqPatch coming for Crysis 2 PC multiplayer key issues, workaround detailed originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 Mar 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bugscrysis-2crytekeaissuekeymultiplayerpatchpcupdateworkaroundThu, 24 Mar 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Crysis 2 review: More than just a suit]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/22/crysis-2-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/22/crysis-2-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/22/crysis-2-review/#comments Crysis 2 running well and looking fantastic, even on the half-decade-old Xbox 360, is now a reality. Gone is the question of "Will it run?", replaced by the really big one: "Is it any good?"

Make no mistake, Crysis 2 answers the "Will it run?" question definitively. Though about the millionth FPS built around a plot of an alien invasion, give or take a few, it's also the most beautiful. Its depiction of a disaster-ravaged New York City is the stuff of Hollywood blockbusters, with layer upon layer of impressive visual effects, animations and large-scale destruction.

Gallery: Crysis 2 (3/22/11)

Continue reading Crysis 2 review: More than just a suit

JoystiqCrysis 2 review: More than just a suit originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 Mar 2011 12:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crysisCrysis-2crytekeaelectronic-artsfpsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxTue, 22 Mar 2011 12:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Crysis 2, Dungeon Siege 3 comics in the works]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/19/crysis-2-dungeon-siege-3-comics-in-the-works/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/19/crysis-2-dungeon-siege-3-comics-in-the-works/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/19/crysis-2-dungeon-siege-3-comics-in-the-works/#comments Can't be bothered to actually play a game, but want something a little more visual than novels? You're in luck. First up, Crysis 2 is getting its own comic, thanks to publisher IDW. The six-issue series, written by Richard K. Morgan (who also penned the story in the game) and drawn by Peter Bergting, connects the events of Crysis and Crysis 2. It arrives in June.

Next, Square Enix is working with Dark Horse Comics to release a digital Dungeon Siege 3 comic online. The book will appear on the official Dungeon Siege site, with writer Jeremy Barlow, along with artists Iban Coello and Sergio Abad, telling three tales of the kingdom of Ehb. Yet another comic will be packaged with the game itself at Walmart when it arrives on May 31.

JoystiqCrysis 2, Dungeon Siege 3 comics in the works originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 19 Mar 2011 14:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comic-booksCrysis-2dark-horse-comicsdungeon-siege-3eaidwmicrosoftpcplaystationps3square-enixxboxSat, 19 Mar 2011 14:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Crysis 2 demo for PS3 gone in a flash]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/18/crysis-2-demo-for-ps3-gone-in-a-flash/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/18/crysis-2-demo-for-ps3-gone-in-a-flash/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/18/crysis-2-demo-for-ps3-gone-in-a-flash/#comments Amid ongoing connectivity problems, EA and Crytek have pulled the plug on the PS3 multiplayer demo for Crysis 2 just three days after it arrived on the PlayStation Store. "Though many gamers have had a great experience playing the demo, we are aware that others have been experiencing server connection delays," a statement on EA's forums reads.

The publisher explains that the swift demise of the demo is intended to give Crytek time to "ensure all issues are resolved when the game launches next week." This isn't the first time EA has yanked a Crysis 2 multiplayer demo -- the original Xbox 360 version was pulled due to similar issues and later replaced with an updated release.

JoystiqCrysis 2 demo for PS3 gone in a flash originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Mar 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crysis-2CrytekdemoeaElectronic-Artsplaystationps3psnFri, 18 Mar 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Crysis 2 can run on a $600 PC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/17/crysis-2-can-run-on-a-600-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/17/crysis-2-can-run-on-a-600-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/17/crysis-2-can-run-on-a-600-pc/#comments You've bought all the components, inserted tab A into slot B and tightened lord-knows-how-many thumbscrews. Your handcrafted PC is finished, and all for less than $600. "But can it run Crysis?" your friend asks? If you followed a handy guide from GeForce, the answer is yes.

Starting with its own $150 GeForce GTX 550 Ti graphics card, the company has compiled a list of parts needed to competently run CryTek's GPU-hungry Crysis 2. Assuming you've got the basics covered (mouse, keyboard, monitor, etc), the whole rig will only run you $599.92. While this setup won't allow maximum settings, it still kicks out a decent frame rate using above average graphical configurations.

As a bonus, it should also shut your snarky friend up.

JoystiqCrysis 2 can run on a $600 PC originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 Mar 2011 19:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crysis-2crytekeageforcepcThu, 17 Mar 2011 19:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Hans Zimmer puts light touch on Crysis 2 score]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/16/hans-zimmer-puts-light-touch-on-crysis-2-score/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/16/hans-zimmer-puts-light-touch-on-crysis-2-score/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/16/hans-zimmer-puts-light-touch-on-crysis-2-score/#comments While you might not recognize, let alone be able to pronounce, the names behind the Crysis 2 score -- Borislav Slavov and Tilman Sillescu, anyone? -- EA's got one that might ring a bell: Hans Zimmer.

The Hans has contributed "part of the dramatic score" for Crytek's sequel, the publisher announced today, squeezing in one last plug before the game and soundtrack are released next week. You can sample the introductory track in the audio clip below -- or do it the right way: Wait until next week when you can get the full soundtrack on your iPod, squeeze into a body suit and go bounding up 5th Avenue.

Continue reading Hans Zimmer puts light touch on Crysis 2 score

JoystiqHans Zimmer puts light touch on Crysis 2 score originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Mar 2011 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crysis-2crytekeahans-zimmermicrosoftmusicpcplaystationps3scoresoundtrackxboxWed, 16 Mar 2011 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Crysis 2 vs. Crysis 2: PC and Xbox visuals compared]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/10/crysis-2-vs-crysis-2-pc-and-xbox-visuals-compared/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/10/crysis-2-vs-crysis-2-pc-and-xbox-visuals-compared/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/10/crysis-2-vs-crysis-2-pc-and-xbox-visuals-compared/#comments Being the sequel to the game that famously brought even the most powerful PC gaming rigs to their knees, you'd expect Crysis 2 to be, how should we say, significantly streamlined for its release on Xbox 360 and PS3. Aw heck, we'll just say it -- how could the console versions even hold a candle to the PC? As evidenced by the video after the break, the 360 does a fine job of keeping up, at least in multiplayer.

In the split-screen footage, it's clear that the PC version sports higher-resolution textures, some higher-detail models and different (one might say improved) lighting. Other than that, though, the two appear fairly close to the untrained eye. Of course, this is multiplayer, so both versions are less fancy in order to keep the framerate up, but this should at least make for some good anecdotal evidence for console players afraid they're missing out big-time by not having a $3,000 PC.

Continue reading Crysis 2 vs. Crysis 2: PC and Xbox visuals compared

JoystiqCrysis 2 vs. Crysis 2: PC and Xbox visuals compared originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Mar 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comparisonCrysisCrysis-2CrytekeaElectronic-ArtsgraphicsmicrosoftpcxboxThu, 10 Mar 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CryEngine 3 GDC tech demo is all kinds of futuristic]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/07/cryengine-3-gdc-tech-demo-is-all-kinds-of-futuristic/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/07/cryengine-3-gdc-tech-demo-is-all-kinds-of-futuristic/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/07/cryengine-3-gdc-tech-demo-is-all-kinds-of-futuristic/#comments Not only does the CryEngine 3 GDC tech demo posted below give us hope for the future of video game visuals -- it also fills us with anticipation for the future of dune buggy technology. Sure, pretty video games are great, but they can't hold a candle to a sleek recreational motor vehicle.

Continue reading CryEngine 3 GDC tech demo is all kinds of futuristic

JoystiqCryEngine 3 GDC tech demo is all kinds of futuristic originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 07 Mar 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cryengine-3Crysis-2crytekgdc-2011microsoftpcplaystationps3xboxMon, 07 Mar 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Crysis 2 multiplayer weapons trailer blows us away]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/04/crysis-2-multiplayer-weapons-trailer-blows-us-away/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/04/crysis-2-multiplayer-weapons-trailer-blows-us-away/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/04/crysis-2-multiplayer-weapons-trailer-blows-us-away/#comments It's just like the old proverb says: Man cannot live on Nanomachine-infused biosuits alone. We need weapons too! All kinds of weapons, with customizable scopes and ammunition, so we can destroy other Crysis 2 players. Check out all the collectible armaments in this new trailer.

Continue reading Crysis 2 multiplayer weapons trailer blows us away

JoystiqCrysis 2 multiplayer weapons trailer blows us away originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Mar 2011 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crysis-2crytekeamicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxFri, 04 Mar 2011 17:40:00 EST