Joystiq

New Adventure Time, Regular Show games from WayForward this fall

Jordan Mallory — Tue, 14 May 2013 19:45:00 EST

What time is it?! Well, Adventure Time obviously, but it's also Regular Show time and, most specifically, new games from WayForward time. The house responsible for Adventure Time: Hey Ice King! Why'd You Steal Our Garbage?!! and Ducktales: Remastered has announced that it will be putting out two new games this fall based on what we believe to be Cartoon Network's most hilarious/magical franchises.

Adventure Time: Explore the Dungeon Because I don't know! tasks players with exploring the Secret Royal Dungeon underneath the Candy Kingdom. The game features multiple selectable characters, including Finn, Jake, Marceline "and more," has co-op for up to four players and includes the voices from the show. Adventure Time creator Pendleton Ward is once again involved in production, though his specific role is unknown. The game will be available on Wii U, Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PC and 3DS.

Meanwhile, Mordecai and Rigby make their non-iOS gaming debut in Regular Show: Mordecai and Rigby In 8-Bit Land for the 3DS. As the name suggests, our heroes must survive being transported inside of their favorite games, which sounds about right for an episode of Regular Show. The game is being developed "in close collaboration with show creator JG Quintel," according to the press release.

New Adventure Time, Regular Show games from WayForward this fall originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 May 2013 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Adventure Time: Hey Ice King soundtrack now on streaming

Jordan Mallory — Fri, 21 Dec 2012 02:30:00 EST

The entirety of Adventure Time: Hey Ice King, Why'd You Steal Our Garbage?!!'s phenomenal pseudo-chiptune power-pop soundtrack is now streaming on D3Publisher's official Soundcloud account, which means that all 83 minutes of Jake Kaufman's exceptional work on the game can now be enjoyed for free.

While the majority of the 34 track album is instrumental, some songs (such as Marceline's boss theme and the beginning/ending themes) are fitting vocal tributes to the source material, which is already famous for having catchy, endearing music.

There is one small catch, which is that the soundtrack isn't actually for sale or available to download, and therefore must be enjoyed in-browser. This basically ruins our plans to drive around town blasting Party in the Clouds, but we'll take what we can get at this point.

Adventure Time: Hey Ice King soundtrack now on streaming originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Dec 2012 02:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Earth Defense Force 2025 begins in 2013

JC Fletcher — Thu, 13 Dec 2012 16:30:00 EST

Giant bugs are making their way back to Earth, and their disposal is in the hands of the usual extermination team: the Earth Defense Force. The PS3/Xbox 360 sequel Earth Defense Force 4 is being localized for North America and Europe as Earth Defense Force 2025, for release in 2013.

The previous console release in the series, Earth Defense Force: Insect Armageddon, was handed off to frequent D3 collaborator and Matt Hazard studio Vicious Cycle. But EDF 4 is the work of Sandlot, the developer who originated the series as a low-cost "Simple 2000" game for PS2.

Gallery: Earth Defense Force 2025

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Earth Defense Force 2025 begins in 2013 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 Dec 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Pid review: Ups and downs

Garrett Martin — Thu, 08 Nov 2012 10:30:00 EST

I hate this butler.

I don't know any real butlers. I'm talking about Pid's first boss, a giant flying neat freak that swoops down to clean up any mess I make. I've spent an hour or two coasting through the blandly whimsical world of Pid, a side-scrolling platformer set in a storybook-ish alien planet overtaken by mean robots. I can jump and kill the bad guys with my very limited stash of bombs, but the action consists largely of using antigravity beams to float above and across obstacles. Suddenly I find myself on a giant table in a banquet hall larger than the UNSC Infinity. It's a dead end, and the only thing I can do is smash some glasses. Mazel tov!

Gallery: Pid

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Pid review: Ups and downs originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Nov 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Adventure Time 'collector's edition' not a GameStop exclusive

David Hinkle — Mon, 16 Jul 2012 18:00:00 EST

That sweet collector's edition package for Wayforward's Adventure Time: Hey Ice King! Why'd You Steal Our Garbage?! - which includes a custom stylus, packaging and more for $40 - will not be exclusive to GameStop. A rep for the game retailer has confirmed as much with Joystiq, and says GameStop will also sell a standard package.

The standard editions for Adventure Time on DS and 3DS are already listed on GameStop's site for $30 each. We expect to see the collector's edition popping up at other retailers soon enough.

Adventure Time 'collector's edition' not a GameStop exclusive originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 16 Jul 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Adventure Time 'collector's edition' spotted

David Hinkle — Fri, 13 Jul 2012 23:25:00 EST

A Collector's Edition of Adventure Time: Hey Ice King! Why'd You Steal Our Garbage?! has popped up over at GameStop, presumably as a retailer exclusive - we're checking on that. Both the 3DS and DS version toss in a custom stylus shaped like Finn's sword, Land of Ooo poster, steelbook packaging made to look like the Enchiridion (the handbook Finn is always lugging around) and an art book.

It's a pretty significant package for $39.99. We've also inquired about a regular version, one that could possibly be cheaper and void of less awesome stuff.

Adventure Time 'collector's edition' spotted originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Jul 2012 23:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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D3 Publisher reveals Earth Defense Forces 4 with Japanese teaser page

Ben Gilbert — Thu, 12 Jul 2012 10:45:00 EST

You remember those three previous Earth Defense Forces games where you shot at giant bugs with a huge arsenal of weapons? It looks like D3 Publisher is fixing on another round of bug destruction, as the Japanese publisher revealed a teaser site for a fourth entry in the series.

Twitter user @Wario64 spotted the page, though little information beyond a game logo and a cheeky slogan are available thus far. Is it heading to North America and Europe? Which platforms is it for? When will it arrive? We're not sure just yet, but those are all fantastic questions (which we've put to D3). If you asked us what to expect from another EDF game, though, well ... bigger, prettier bugs, and uh ... more guns? Sure, let's go with that.

D3 Publisher reveals Earth Defense Forces 4 with Japanese teaser page originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Jul 2012 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fall 2012 is Adventure Time on 3DS and DS

JC Fletcher — Tue, 08 May 2012 19:00:00 EST

"Hey Ice King! Why'd you steal our garbage?" asks the cover of WayForward's Adventure Time game. The answer, it seems, is to build a Garbage Princess, which Finn and Jake have to then rescue for some reason. Maybe they just want to beat up the Ice King again.

D3Publisher officially announced the game today, announcing plans to release both DS and 3DS versions this fall. Players will get to control both Finn and Jake through "a unique action-adventure experience" designed in collaboration with Pendleton Ward, creator of the show. D3 has yet to release any screens, but we'll be sure to let you know when you can see the garbage for yourself.

Gallery: Adventure Time: Hey Ice King! Why’d you steal our garbage?! (Concept Doodles)

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Fall 2012 is Adventure Time on 3DS and DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 May 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dungeon Defenders dev diary gets to the RPG meat

Griffin McElroy — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 21:00:00 EST

Want to know how you'll be able to upgrade, customize, bolster and generally bad-assify your hero in Dungeon Defenders? Wonder no more: The developer diary posted above dives into the specifics of the game's cornucopia of RPG mechanics.

Dungeon Defenders dev diary gets to the RPG meat originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Oct 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nintendo mass announces Wii, DS game launch dates

Ben Gilbert — Sun, 12 Jun 2011 16:00:00 EST

Clearly, Nintendo wants the back half of your year to have a strong financial plan. In two lengthy lists we spotted on the company's press site, everything from Kirby Wii to Pro Jumper! Chimaki's Hot Spring Tour Guilty Gear Tangent was given a more clear release date, with Kirby arriving some time in fall and the latter mystifying DSiWare shopgoers on June 23.

If one game starring a puffy pink monster just wasn't enough, how about one for your DS on September 19? 'Cause that's exactly when Kirby Mass Attack is launching. A whole mess of other release date/windows/seasons are categorized for your fiduciary planning needs, just beyond the break.

Continue reading Nintendo mass announces Wii, DS game launch dates

Nintendo mass announces Wii, DS game launch dates originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 12 Jun 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dream Trigger 3D gameplay explained on video

Richard Mitchell — Wed, 11 May 2011 19:00:00 EST

If early gameplay videos for Dream Trigger 3D left you befuddled, we've got good news and bad news. The good news is this detailed walkthrough should clear things up. The bad news is that understanding the mechanics won't make the game any less difficult.

Continue reading Dream Trigger 3D gameplay explained on video

Dream Trigger 3D gameplay explained on video originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 May 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Bangai-O HD delayed until spring, Treasure adding multiplayer

JC Fletcher — Mon, 04 Oct 2010 15:07:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

Okay, we have some bad news and some awesome news. First, the bad news: you won't be blowing up robots, houses, mines, and everything around you with bajillions of projectiles in Bangai-O HD: Missile Fury this fall. D3 Publisher announced that the XBLA title has been delayed until spring.

How can a delay be awesome? Developer Treasure is using the extra time to add multiplayer gameplay, including both cooperative and competitive modes. Despite Bangai-O Spirits on the DS having wireless local multiplayer capabilities, Missile Fury was originally announced without any. We suppose we can wait a few months if it means we can share Bangai-O with our friends. Find the statement from D3 after the break.

Gallery: Bangai-O HD: Missile Fury (XBLA)

Continue reading Bangai-O HD delayed until spring, Treasure adding multiplayer

Bangai-O HD delayed until spring, Treasure adding multiplayer originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Oct 2010 15:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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D3Publisher announces Earth Defense Force: Insect Armageddon

Griffin McElroy — Fri, 17 Sep 2010 17:30:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

Who would have thought that Earth Defense Force 2017, one of our guiltiest current-gen pleasures, would ever get a proper sequel treatment? Certainly not us -- which explains why we were (kind of) surprised when D3Publisher announced Earth Defense Force: Insect Armageddon for 360 and PS3 earlier today.

The description from the game's announcement sounds like we'll be reprising the giant bug-shooting action of 2017, but with support for a three-player online co-op Campaign, as well as a six-player co-op Survival mode. The Insect Armageddon is still a ways off, with a tentative spring launch window -- fortunately, D3Publisher sent over a handful of images from the game to tide us over until then. Entomophobics need not apply!

Gallery: Earth Defense Force: Insect Armageddon

Continue reading D3Publisher announces Earth Defense Force: Insect Armageddon

D3Publisher announces Earth Defense Force: Insect Armageddon originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 Sep 2010 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Puzzle Quest 2 footage gets you from point A to point B

Griffin McElroy — Fri, 21 May 2010 11:30:00 EST

Yes, we know you're upset that Puzzle Quest 2's completely addictive gem-swapping sessions will be interrupted by primitive world traversal -- why can't we just bounce from fight to fight on an overworld map like civilized humans? Try not to get your knickers in a twist; based on the trailer above, it doesn't look like traveling between levels will be too taxing of an ordeal. Especially if you just teleport to where you're headed, which may actually reduce the amount of downtime between brawls. Now that's more like it.

Check out the trailer to see Puzzle Quest 2's exploration in action, and to get a quick glimpse of the game that's going to devour our free time next month.

Puzzle Quest 2 footage gets you from point A to point B originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 May 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sick of Just Dance? Try KIDZ BOP Dance Party! The Video Game

David Hinkle — Thu, 13 May 2010 02:00:00 EST

We get it. Sometimes you just need to put something on the TV to get a break from the kids. Now that they've danced to all the MC Hammer a human being could ever dance to in Just Dance, you've got to resort to stronger, more potent forms of distraction. That's why we're here to tell you about KIDZ BOP Dance Party! The Video Game.

A joint operation between D3Publisher and those weird cover albums you see advertised on Nickelodeon, the new Wii game will launch on September 21 and will feature "24 contemporary hits" -- including pint-sized renditions of Lady Gaga's "Paparazzi," Michael Jackson's "Thriller" and Pink's "Get the Party Started." Really? Kids know who Pink is?

The game will also have five different modes of play: Free Play; Challenge; Dance Off; Shop; and Dress-Up. Challenge mode will allow two players to dance cooperatively, while Dance Off will feature a head-to-head mode. The remainder of the game will be single player only but don't fret: if there's one thing kids are great at doing, it's sharing their toys.

Sick of Just Dance? Try KIDZ BOP Dance Party! The Video Game originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 May 2010 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Puzzle Quest 2 trailer for DS drops in

Alexander Sliwinski — Wed, 28 Apr 2010 19:31:00 EST

If the Puzzle Quest 2 XBLA trailer last month wasn't your thing, check out the promo for the portable version of the RPG puzzler. The trailers are almost identical, except that all the XBLA shots are replaced with clips showing almost the exact same scenes on the DS. It's certainly good for comparison.

D3 Publisher has already stated that Puzzle Quest 2 on DS will not be plagued by the loading time issues found in Galactrix so if that's been keeping you up at night, rest easy.

Gallery: Puzzle Quest 2 (DS)

Puzzle Quest 2 trailer for DS drops in originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Apr 2010 19:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Despicable Me games coming to Wii, DS, PS2 and PSP in July

Ludwig Kietzmann — Mon, 26 Apr 2010 19:00:00 EST

D3Publisher has announced details on its upcoming batch of Despicable Me games, coming to Wii, DS, PS2 and PSP this July. Coinciding with the animated film's debut and mirroring its premise of a supervillain (voiced by Steve Carell) plotting to steal the moon, Despicable Me: The Game lets you "experience the thrill of being downright despicable" and purchasing a licensed movie game.

You'll assume the role of supervillain Gru, who must use various gadgets, weapons and an army of minions to solve puzzles, pull off "the biggest heist in history" and best his rival, Vector. (Presumably, the game is over when Vector has been beaten by, uh, Gru.)

Despicable Me: The Game will launch on the Wii, PlayStation 2 and PlayStation Portable -- courtesy of Monkey Bar Games -- while a separate title, Despicable Me: The Game - Minion Mayhem is being cooked up (Fillet Minion joke goes here) just for DS by the increasingly visible WayForward.

Gallery: Despicable Me: The Game - Minion Mayhem

Gallery: Despicable Me: The Game

Despicable Me games coming to Wii, DS, PS2 and PSP in July originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Apr 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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D3 becomes 'Despicable Me' publisher

Ludwig Kietzmann — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 21:00:00 EST

D3Publisher has announced a worldwide publishing agreement with Universal Partnerships & Licensing that will see the upcoming 3D animated film, "Despicable Me," transformed into an obligatory video game for consoles (which likely includes the one making a cameo above) and handheld systems. Despicable Me: The Game casts you in the role of Gru, the film's anguished supervillain mired in a war with his archnemesis, Vector. Expect "a unique blend of action and puzzle solving," along with "an army of loyal-but-manic minions" and a release date in line with the film's debut on July 9, 2010.

The developer hasn't yet been named (uh oh), but we're hoping for a decent tie-in title, if only to spare us from the inevitable one-liner reviews:

"This is a despicable game."
"Only despicable you would spend time on this one."
"This game is not fun but it is despicable which is funny because Despicable Me is the title of this game."

D3 becomes 'Despicable Me' publisher originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 01 Feb 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Matt Hazard: Blood Bath and Beyond dated for Jan. 6

Richard Mitchell — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 03:00:00 EST

D3Publisher's Matt Hazard: Blood Bath & Beyond now has a date with both Xbox Live and the PlayStation Network. It will arrive on January 6 and 7 on Microsoft and Sony's platforms, respectively. Playing on the same camp featured in the original retail Matt Hazard game -- which parodied other games and featured an aging video game star -- Blood Bath & Beyond is a 2D shooter in the same vein as many classics like Contra and Bionic Commando.

Alongside the release date, D3 has also revealed Dexter Dare, Matt Hazard's burnt out sidekick with a sordid history -- including a prolonged "Mana abuse problem" that we're probably supposed to find hilarious. Check out some new screens and Dexter Dare character art in the gallery below.

Gallery: Matt Hazard: Blood Bath and Beyond (11/30/09)

Matt Hazard: Blood Bath and Beyond dated for Jan. 6 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Puzzle Quest 2 coming to DS, XBLA in Spring 2010

JC Fletcher — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 09:30:00 EST

Though we're confident Infinite Interactive's Puzzle Quest 2 will eventually be a mega-multiplatform release like its predecessor, D3Publisher announced that the game's roll-out will start on DS and Xbox Live Arcade. It'll be out in spring 2010, along with every other game you've ever heard of, which means that you'll now have the choice to play all those games or Puzzle Quest. They'll occupy about the same amount of time.

Puzzle Quest 2 will let players match gems as one of four new character classes: War Mage, Inquisitor, Barbarian, or Assassin, using "all-new weapons, spells, and shields." Sorry if you just got over a Puzzle Quest addiction.

Puzzle Quest 2 coming to DS, XBLA in Spring 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 Nov 2009 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Blue Dragon: Awakened Shadow coming to DS in Spring 2010

Ludwig Kietzmann — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 14:30:00 EST

If you've been dying to march Akira Toriyama-designed characters through fantasy landscapes and monster-infested dungeons, you'll be saddened to hear that Dragon Quest IX has yet to be announced for North American release. As if sensing your oddly specific yearning, D3Publisher has stepped in with a US debut for Blue Dragon: Awakened Shadow.

Dubbed Blue Dragon: Ikai no Kyojuu in Japan (and published by Namco Bandai, which owns the majority of D3Publisher), the second DS entry in the Mistwalker's role-playing franchise stars a new protagonist, with gender, facial features and clothing determined by your input. Awakened Shadow is set two years after the events of the Xbox 360 game and finds Shu and the gang returning to Blue Dragon's "contemporary" RPG gameplay. Expect to upgrade weaponry, tactically change shadows and skip every scene featuring Marumaro.

Blue Dragon: Awakened Shadow is scheduled for release in Spring 2010.

Blue Dragon: Awakened Shadow coming to DS in Spring 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Oct 2009 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Matt Hazard trailers put out-of-work characters back in the game

David Hinkle — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 19:00:00 EST

It must be tough being a video game character. They always have to be "on" -- ready to go should we boot up our systems or pump more quarters into the machines. But what happens when we stop turning them on? A two-part trailer for the second-chance Matt Hazard: Blood Bath & Beyond (now a side-scroller!) explores the more desperate side of the digital beings we've so carelessly abused and sold back to GameStop.

Head past the break for the two trailers and see if you can spot all of the cameos! (You know it's hard times when even a certain mustached plumber can't find any work.)

Continue reading Matt Hazard trailers put out-of-work characters back in the game

Matt Hazard trailers put out-of-work characters back in the game originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 Oct 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Astro Boy movie adaptation coming to Wii, DS, PSP, PS2

Griffin McElroy — Thu, 07 May 2009 11:45:00 EST

It appears that High Voltage Software's unannounced non-FPS title has been revealed, and ... it's only wearing underpants. According to a recent press release, the Conduit developer, along with D3Publisher, will be bringing Imagi Studios' upcoming CGI-infused Astro Boy film to the Wii, PSP and PS2 -- but in the form of a video game. How very clever! We'll see how well this bold experiment pans out when the game drops this Fall, probably around the film's October 23 release date.

The title will also be developed for the DS by Art Co. Ltd., who also adapted Coraline for D3Publisher. That doesn't exactly fill us with confidence, but hey -- it's pretty tough to screw up "Finger Lasers, Arm Cannons, and Butt Machine Guns."

Astro Boy movie adaptation coming to Wii, DS, PSP, PS2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 May 2009 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Matt Hazard takes on Japanese RPGs in Eat Lead trailer

Jem Alexander — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 16:35:00 EST

Eat Lead: The Return Of Matt Hazard's premise is certainly interesting. It seeks to systematically pick apart video game cliches using as much meta-humor as possible. The gameplay footage after the break shows the eponymous Matt Hazard facing off against a JRPG character, complete with a massive sword, hilarious hair and Final Fantasy style text windows. Their discourse is actually fairly humorous, though the gameplay that takes place afterwards looks about as generic as a 3rd-person shooter can get.

You'll be able to see whether the premise is worth the price of admission (from what we've seen, it's not looking likely) when the game releases this Spring.

Gallery: Eat Lead: The Return of Matt Hazard

[Thanks, Christian!]

Continue reading Matt Hazard takes on Japanese RPGs in Eat Lead trailer

Matt Hazard takes on Japanese RPGs in Eat Lead trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Jan 2009 16:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Puzzle Quest: Galactrix warps onto DS Feb. 24

Alexander Sliwinski — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 19:06:00 EST

Filed under: Nintendo DS, PC, Sony PlayStation 3, Microsoft Xbox 360

D3Publisher announced today that Puzzle Quest: Galactrix will jump into retail on stardate 62402.24 (February 24, 2009). Demos are currently playable on PC in both Flash-based and downloadable form. Versions for Xbox 360, PS3 and PC are planned for "early 2009."

We've sent Bothans to gather more intel on a specific release date for our home systems, because like our obsession with The Real Housewives of Orange County, we prefer to keep our gem-shifting vice behind-closed-doors.

Puzzle Quest: Galactrix warps onto DS Feb. 24 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 22 Jan 2009 19:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Puzzle Quest: Galactrix PC demo at Big Download

Christopher Grant — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 12:47:00 EST

Filed under: PC

Forget that Flash demo. The real demo of D3Publisher's space-ified Puzzle Quest follow-up, Puzzle Quest: Galactrix, is available exclusively at our PC-crazed sister-site, Big Download. The 132MB download excludes fancy features like "saving" and "having more than five levels" but at $0, the price is certainly right. If the taste is to your liking, look to the stars for the full meal in February.

Download Puzzle Quest: Galactrix Demo (132 MB)

Gallery: Puzzle Quest: Galactrix (XBLA/DS/PC)

Puzzle Quest: Galactrix PC demo at Big Download originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 22 Jan 2009 12:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Puzzle Quest Galactrix boldly going to PSN

Jem Alexander — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 11:15:00 EST

Filed under: e-Distribution Games, News

As hinted by the official Puzzle Quest Galactrix flash demo, the game has been confirmed by D3Publisher (via Eurogamer) to have a planned release on the PSN. Galactrix will be similar to the original Challenge Of The Warlords in terms of gameplay, but will feature a science fiction setting, rather than a fantasy one. If you haven't played Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords yet, be sure to give it a go. You've no excuse really, it's on practically every system available.

Currently price and release date info is a mystery, but Galactrix is supposed to release around March.

Puzzle Quest Galactrix boldly going to PSN originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 22 Jan 2009 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Eat Lead: The Return of Matt Hazard is a parody (of itself)

Andrew Yoon — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 08:00:00 EST

Filed under: Sony PlayStation 3, Microsoft Xbox 360, Action

Edgar Wright's "Shaun of the Dead" is an example of a great parody that not only pokes fun at genre conventions, but masters them. Although it attempts to genuinely scare the audience, the film never forgets its comedic intent. However, when parodies fail to rise above the farces they make fun of, the result is usually disastrous (look at "Scary Movie" and "Disaster Movie").

So what does any of this have to do with D3Publisher's upcoming shooter, Eat Lead: The Return of Matt Hazard? Unfortunately, this supposed "comedy shooter" is less "Shaun of the Dead" and more "Disaster Movie." Although it attempts to make fun of the shooter genre (and the industry as a whole), uninspired and mediocre gameplay mechanics hinder it from garnering the respect a proper parody needs. The poorly developed story elements also need serious reworking. The game's greatest asset, its unique premise, is stunted by generic game design -- and that's a pity.

Gallery: Eat Lead: The Return of Matt Hazard (PS3, 360)

Continue reading Eat Lead: The Return of Matt Hazard is a parody (of itself)

Eat Lead: The Return of Matt Hazard is a parody (of itself) originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 28 Oct 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Eat Lead: The Return of Matt Hazard announced

Alan Tsang — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 15:00:00 EST

Filed under: News

D3Publisher has announced a shooter known as Eat Lead: The Return of Matt Hazard. The game will parody various video game genres and the industry, as well as pop culture. The title stars Matt Hazard (his fictitious history can be found at this official "unofficial" website), who returns to prove he can still take his old foes from the game publisher Marathon Megasoft. The game seems to be aiming to offer an entertaining third-person shooter experience (complete with a cover system) without taking itself too seriously. Take a look at the screenshots below and look for Eat Lead when it is released Q1 of 2009.

[Via Joystiq]

Gallery: Eat Lead: The Return of Matt Hazard

Eat Lead: The Return of Matt Hazard announced originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Oct 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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D3 reveals satirical shooter 'Eat Lead: The Return of Matt Hazard'

Ludwig Kietzmann — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 11:40:00 EST

Filed under: Sony PlayStation 3, Microsoft Xbox 360, Action

Vicious Cycle Software and D3Publisher have decided it's time to poke fun at our beloved (but grizzled!) space marines, revealing the first, scant details of their upcoming Xbox 360 and PS3 shooter, Eat Lead: The Return of Matt Hazard. According to the press release, the award-winning writer behind Dead Head Fred, Dave Ellis, came up with the whole shebang-bang-bang.

As you might expect from a modern third-person shooter -- even a humorous one -- Eat Lead will employ a cover system (dubbed "point and cover") and "different interactive melee moves." Provided the game remembers that taking potshots at the genre doesn't exclude it from being judged as a shooter, The Return of Matt Hazard in Q1 2009 may just be welcomed. In fact, we're just about ready to join Matt's appropriately and believably terrible fansite.

Gallery: Eat Lead: The Return of Matt Hazard (PS3, 360)

D3 reveals satirical shooter 'Eat Lead: The Return of Matt Hazard' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Oct 2008 11:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Puzzle Quest and expansion puzzling PSN this winter

Jason Dobson — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 16:00:00 EST

Filed under: Sony PlayStation 3, Puzzle, RPGs, Casual

For PS3 owners somehow unacquainted with Puzzle Quest, we suggest stocking up on antibiotics and extra time. D3Publisher has revealed plans to bring not only the original Puzzle Quest but also its recent fan-named expansion, Revenge of the Plague Lord, to the PlayStation Store this winter, a move that according to our calculations will make it scientifically impossible not to have lost sleep playing the puzzle-RPG hybrid.

Both titles will be released as a single purchase and download, though the publisher has not announced how much the time sink combo will cost. We're currently waiting to hear back from our man on the street, who's diligently checking the alleys to see how much a twofer of digital crack goes for these days, anyway.

[Via PS3F]

Puzzle Quest and expansion puzzling PSN this winter originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Oct 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords to be bundled with expansion

Alan Tsang — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:45:00 EST

Filed under: e-Distribution Games, News

The game that's already on literally every other system is finally headed for the PSN. Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords will be bundled with the Revenge of the Plague Lord expansion pack when it is becomes available for download for the PS Store later this winter, D3 Publisher announced.

For those unfamiliar with the game, Puzzle Quest is a role-playing game that uses puzzles in place of tradtional RPG battles. The expansion will include new professions, new spells and new areas to explore. No exact pricing or release date have been announced, but considering how long PS3 owners had to wait for this game, a comparatively lower price point might make this title a bit more enticing.

[Via press release]

Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords to be bundled with expansion originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Puzzle Quest spreads to iPhone App Store 'this fall'

Christopher Grant — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 21:27:00 EST

Filed under: Mobile

Intent on making Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords impossible to avoid regardless of your platform preferences (seriously: DS, PSP, Xbox Live Arcade, Windows, Mac OS X, Wii, PlayStation 2, mobile phones), D3Publisher has announced the puzzle phenomenon will be its very first foray into the wide, wide world of iPhone apps.

Having proven their chops getting things to run on Apple platforms with Cider, the alchemists at TransGaming will be responsible for the iPhone port, bringing all the match-three slash RPG gameplay you know and love to the App Store "this fall."

Puzzle Quest spreads to iPhone App Store 'this fall' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Sep 2008 21:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Gaming to Go: Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords

Matthew Madeiro — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 17:00:00 EST

Filed under: Gaming to Go

The premiere Puzzle Quest title debuted to generally positive reviews, many of which praised the unexpectedly compelling mix of ~~Bejeweled~~ gem-swapping puzzles and standard RPG elements. Any gamer who has given the title a whirl knows the critical claim doesn't come unwarranted, even with a few niggling things like cheating AI and a complete lack of closure. Those minor complaints are more than made up for with the mind-boggling amount of depth the developers crammed into the cartridge, transforming what could have been just another puzzler into an addicting little package still worth playing over a year since its release.

With the space-age sequel rumored to land sometime in October, now is as good a time as any to take a look back at the sword and stone puzzler that started it all. If you never bothered to pick it up, consider yourself thoroughly shamed -- but don't let the weight of your emotional guilt bring you down. Come along with this week's edition of Gaming to Go for one last reminder that sliding colorful stones around a board is a perfectly viable way to wage digital war.

Continue reading Gaming to Go: Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords

Gaming to Go: Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 15 Sep 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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New details drop for Onechanbara port

David Hinkle — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 19:20:00 EST

Filed under: News

Ever since it was revealed that D3 would bring Onechanbara: Bikini Zombie Slayers to the Wii, we've been pumped to play it. That is mainly due to the game being all about a hot chick killing zombies while barely clothed. It's basically a recipe for success. But what of this Wii port? What features can we look forward to? Some things were hinted at back at E3, but we never got definitive word. That is, until now.

D3 has confirmed that the game will feature co-op play, complete with unique characters with their own individual weapons and combos, so you can feel awkward in front of a friend when you're getting weird sensations from a scantily-clad babe destroying screens full of zombies in showers of blood. Aside from the co-op, the roster of game modes has been expanded to include Free Play Mode, Survival Mode and Quest Mode, in addition to the main Story mode.

With these new features, the game sounds better than ever. Any of you excited for what is sure to be some great mindless slaughter?

[Via Go Nintendo]

New details drop for Onechanbara port originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Sep 2008 19:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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An XBLA Threefer: RocketBowl, Samurai Shodown 2 and Shotest Shogi

Dustin Burg — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:30:00 EST

Filed under: News, Xbox Live Arcade

For the second week in a row, we're being treated to an Xbox Live Arcade threefer. Because, you know, XBLA twofers are so 2007. And heading to the XBLA this Wednesday, September 10th will be D3Publisher's RocketBowl, the SNK Playmore 2D sword fighter Samurai Shodown 2 and AI Factory's chess-inspired Shotest Shogi. All games will cost 800 Microsoft points except Samurai Shodown 2, which will be available for the oh so nice price of 400 MS points.

An XBLA Threefer: RocketBowl, Samurai Shodown 2 and Shotest Shogi originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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RocketBowl scheduled for Sept. 10th XBLA release

Dustin Burg — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 15:15:00 EST

Filed under: News, Xbox Live Arcade

Admittedly, we may be a bit late on this announcement, but who ever said late news isn't important news? (Don't answer that.) Ahem, over the weekend, D3 Publisher announced that their "refreshing twist on a classic sport" RocketBowl will be releasing to the Xbox Live Arcade on Wednesday, September 10th for 800 Microsoft points. What exactly is RocketBowl? Picture bowling, on 10 crazy courses with ramps and other doodads, Xbox Live multiplayer, equipment upgrades and (of course) bowling balls that are rocket propelled balls of death. Genius! Now only if we could get our hands on one of these rocket-powered bowling balls for some real life pin action. Though, we hear they're illegal in twenty-seven states and all of Europe.

[Thanks, to everyone who sent this in]

RocketBowl scheduled for Sept. 10th XBLA release originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Aug 2008 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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'Bikini Samurai Squad' slashes Stateside on 360

Randy Nelson — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 01:30:00 EST

Filed under: Microsoft Xbox 360, Action

Who's going to notice a game with a title like "Onechanbara" on store shelves? But add a subtitle like "Bikini Samurai Squad" - not forgetting imagery of said swimsuit sporting swordswomen - and you have a chance. D3Publisher is taking a chance on the cult Xbox 360 import, which stars two sisters on a mission to battle zombie hordes ... while wearing next to nothing. A quick parsing of the game's page on D3's site returned the following words: "expose," "thrusting," "deep," "inside," and "desperate." Oh, and lest we forget the ability to check out the "super sexy" twins in the "exclusive dress-up mode." The game has yet to be rated by the ESRB, but surely it's E10+ fare, no? D3 hasn't set a release date for the game yet, but it's likely to debut early next year along with Onechanbara: Bikini Zombie Slayers for Wii.

[Via Shacknews]

'Bikini Samurai Squad' slashes Stateside on 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Aug 2008 01:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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First Puzzle Quest: Galactrix trailer is rather hexy

Griffin McElroy — Sun, 13 Jul 2008 13:30:00 EST

Filed under: Nintendo DS, PC, Microsoft Xbox 360, Puzzle, RPGs

We understand that trailers for puzzle games, even ones with strong RPG elements, aren't exactly titillating. With very few explosions, no dialogue, and the repetitive swapping of multi-hued bricks, the odds are somewhat against them. If you never played the first Puzzle Quest, the above trailer will probably look as bland as eating toast at a Kenny G concert -- however, those who have gemswapped their way through the Challenge of the Warlords understand the fancy-tickling capacity of this debut Puzzle Quest: Galactrix trailer. With looks at the new hex-based gameplay, the massive galaxy the game takes place in, and the new visual aesthetic, this one video should be enough to cause visions of hexagons to dance in your head until the game's Q1 '09 release.

First Puzzle Quest: Galactrix trailer is rather hexy originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 13 Jul 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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D3 to release Shaun the Sheep this Fall, Coraline in early 09

Ross Miller — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 18:45:00 EST

Filed under: Nintendo DS, Sony PlayStation 2, Sony PlayStation 3, Nintendo Wii, Microsoft Xbox 360

D3Publisher has announced that it has acquired the rights to make games based on stop-motion animations Coraline and Shaun the Sheep (via Gamasutra). The former, Coraline, is a film adaptation of a Neil Gaiman book directed by Henry Sellick (The Nightmare Before Christmas). The adventure game is expected to ship early 2009 for DS and unknown home consoles alongside the film's February 6 debut. Unlike the film, the game will not be using 3D glasses, according to D3 COO Yoji Takenaka.

The other game adaptation, Shaun the Sheep, is based on a British TV show from Aardman Animation (Wallace & Gromit), who previously worked with D3 on a game for Flushed Away. The adventure title will be exclusive to the DS and is due out this Fall.

D3 to release Shaun the Sheep this Fall, Coraline in early 09 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 16 Jun 2008 18:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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