Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Get $1 PC games from Ubisoft's new Uplay client]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/16/get-1-pc-games-from-ubisoft-during-gamescom/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/16/get-1-pc-games-from-ubisoft-during-gamescom/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/16/get-1-pc-games-from-ubisoft-during-gamescom/#comments Get $1 PC games from Ubisoft during GamescomUplay the vague Ubisoft online service is now also Uplay the PC client, through which Ubisoft sells games and offers friends lists and other services. It's worth checking out, because the company is offering a selection of $1 PC game downloads, one a day. Today, it's HAWX 2; tomorrow, From Dust, with Silent Hunter 5 and Driver: San Francisco following.

The same deal applies in the UK and Europe, with prices of one unit of the local currency. There are other deep, if not as dramatic, discounts as well.

Continue reading Get $1 PC games from Ubisoft's new Uplay client

JoystiqGet $1 PC games from Ubisoft's new Uplay client originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Aug 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>driver-san-franciscofrom-dustgamescom-2012hawx-2pcsilent-hunter-5ubisoftuplayThu, 16 Aug 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Steam Summer Sale, Day 9: Dungeon Defenders, Crysis 2, Civ 5 and more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/20/steam-summer-sale-day-9-dungeon-defenders-crysis-2-civ-5-and/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/20/steam-summer-sale-day-9-dungeon-defenders-crysis-2-civ-5-and/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/20/steam-summer-sale-day-9-dungeon-defenders-crysis-2-civ-5-and/#comments Steam Summer Sale, Day 9 Dungeon Defenders, Crysis 2, Civ 5 and moreWell, we're more than a week into the Steam Summer Sale and there's still no end in sight. No end to the savings, that is! (Can you tell we used to write copy for a local used car dealership?)

Today's deep discounts include Dungeon Defenders, Fear 3, Magicka and Red Orchestra 2: Heroes of Stalingrad GOTYE, all for less than five smackers each, and Civilization 5, Deus Ex: Human Revolution, Crysis 2 and Driver: San Fancisco for less than a tenner. Today's indie bundle is also no slouch, touting the now-classic VVVVVV, as well as the ballistically brilliant Jamestown.

JoystiqSteam Summer Sale, Day 9: Dungeon Defenders, Crysis 2, Civ 5 and more originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Jul 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>civ-5Civilization-5crysis-2deus-ex-human-revolutiondriver-san-franciscodungeon-defendersfear-3Jamestownmacmagickapcred-orchestra-2-heroes-of-stalingradsteam-summer-salesteam-summer-sale-2012VVVVVVFri, 20 Jul 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ubisoft's Reflections studio nominated for Innovation Award, now hiring]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/ubisofts-reflections-studio-nominated-for-innovation-award-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/ubisofts-reflections-studio-nominated-for-innovation-award-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/ubisofts-reflections-studio-nominated-for-innovation-award-now/#comments Ubisoft's Reflections studio, the developers of Driver: San Francisco, Just Dance 3, and currently working on Far Cry 3, has been nominated for an Innovation Award by the UK's Royal Television Society of the North East, spotlighting "exceptional contributions to technological and production innovations." In other words, they produce games real good, ya hear?

The awards will be handed out on Saturday in a ceremony at Newcastle upon Tyne in Northeast England. Reflections also tells Joystiq that the company is growing and hiring at the moment, so if you want to make games and live in the UK (or are willing to move there), there might be an opening for you.

Continue reading Ubisoft's Reflections studio nominated for Innovation Award, now hiring

JoystiqUbisoft's Reflections studio nominated for Innovation Award, now hiring originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>developersdriver-san-franciscomicrosoftplaystationps3reflectionsreflections-interactiveubisoft-reflectionsxboxWed, 15 Feb 2012 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ubi's server migration closeouts extend beyond previously announced titles]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/08/ubis-server-migration-closeouts-extend-beyond-previously-announ/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/08/ubis-server-migration-closeouts-extend-beyond-previously-announ/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/08/ubis-server-migration-closeouts-extend-beyond-previously-announ/#comments Ubisoft is in the middle of transferring all of its data from one server farm to another, and while we knew the process would render some games unplayable, it seems the migration has affected a wider swath of Ubisoft's catalogue than previously anticipated.

Players are reporting issues with the PC version of Driver: San Francisco and with Anno 2070, according to a report by Eurogamer. Ubisoft, in addition to apologizing on its Twitter feed, is also working to correct the problem and has already found a preliminary solution for Anno 2070 players unable to get online. Ubisoft expects services to be fully restored by Thursday morning.

JoystiqUbi's server migration closeouts extend beyond previously announced titles originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anno-2070data-transferdowntimedriver-san-franciscoofflinepcserver-farmserver-migrationubisoftWed, 08 Feb 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Ubisoft server migration means temporary offline time for some games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/psa-ubisoft-server-migration-means-temporary-offline-time-for-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/psa-ubisoft-server-migration-means-temporary-offline-time-for-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/psa-ubisoft-server-migration-means-temporary-offline-time-for-s/#comments Beginning February 7, Ubisoft will transition all of its data from one third-party server farm to another, and as a result online functionality in most Ubisoft titles will be disabled during that time. Some Ubisoft games won't be playable at all, but that list is rather short and will only affect Mac and PC gamers.

Ubisoft's most recent triple-A titles will thankfully be unaffected: Anno 2070, Assassin's Creed: Revelations, Driver: San Francisco, and Just Dance 3 will all remain playable (both online and offline) during the transition. The OSX version of the original Assassin's Creed, however, will be completely unplayable, as will the OSX version of Splinter Cell: Conviction and the PC versions of Might and Magic: Heroes VI and Tom Clancy's HAWX 2.

The online portions of all other Ubisoft games will be disabled during the transition, although offline modes should still function normally. Ubisoft has yet to provide an estimated completion date for the move, recommending instead that people follow its official Twitter account for updates.

[REDMIRAGE via Shutterstock]

JoystiqPSA: Ubisoft server migration means temporary offline time for some games originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 01:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Anno-2070Assassins-CreedAssassins-Creed-RevelationsdowntimeDriver-San-FranciscoJust-Dance-3macmicrosoftOSXpcplaystationps3Splinter-Cell-ConvictionUbisoftxboxFri, 03 Feb 2012 01:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Best of the Rest: Jordan's picks for 2011]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/03/best-of-the-rest-jordans-picks-for-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/03/best-of-the-rest-jordans-picks-for-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/03/best-of-the-rest-jordans-picks-for-2011/#comments Catherine
I have a soft spot for the bizarre and the esoteric. If something is complicated, either through the machinations of its mechanical workings or through the intricacies of its conceptual nature, its hard for me to focus on anything else until I feel like I really understand what I'm looking at. Catherine gave me something to think about, and also made me think about myself, which isn't something I can usually say about puzzle/dating games.

The experience is complicated in both the literal and metaphorical sense; its ever-changing puzzle gameplay and surprisingly deep, multifaceted story are the result of brilliant design decisions, exceptional writing and an amazing localization job by Atlus. Catherine managed to satiate my craving for the intellectually surreal while immersing me in the delightfully idiosyncratic world of Japanese storytelling.

Continue reading Best of the Rest: Jordan's picks for 2011

JoystiqBest of the Rest: Jordan's picks for 2011 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Jan 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Atlusbest-of-the-rest-2011Capcomcatherinedriver-san-franciscoking-of-fighters-xiiimicrosoftplaystationps3snk-playmoreUbisoftUbisoft-Reflectionsultimate-marvel-vs-capcom-3UMVC3xboxTue, 03 Jan 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Best of the Rest: Alexander's picks of 2011]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/02/best-of-the-rest-alexanders-picks-of-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/02/best-of-the-rest-alexanders-picks-of-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/02/best-of-the-rest-alexanders-picks-of-2011/#comments
Dead Space 2
I am a passionate man. When Dead Space 2 was overlooked by several of my fellow editors, preventing it from attaining a rightful place in our top ten, I briefly contemplated a multi-city tour. The plan was simple: ring their doorbell, smack them across the face, cross their name off a list and move on to the next deserving victim. My main reason Dead Space 2 deserved a spot in our top ten:

At times, I forgot to breathe.

Dead Space 2 was a game of tension and release. I found myself gasping for air after several scenes, so focused on whatever new necromorph horror was trying to splay me that the part of my brain regulating natural respiration was overridden by the section screaming, "SHOOT IT! SHOOT IT WITH SO MUCH QUICKNESS AND RUN!"

For the sake of levity, if I had it my way, there would have been several moments where protagonist Isaac Clarke pulled out Handi-Snacks, lifted his visor and pouted about whatever danger he'd face beyond the next airlock.

Continue reading Best of the Rest: Alexander's picks of 2011

JoystiqBest of the Rest: Alexander's picks of 2011 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Jan 2012 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-3best-of-the-restbest-of-the-rest-2011dead-space-2driver-san-franciscodungeon-defendersmicrosoftmight-and-magic-clash-of-heroespcplaystationps3space-marinewarhammer-40k-space-marinexboxyou-dont-know-jackMon, 02 Jan 2012 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Driver: San Francisco shifts in large-ish patch]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/02/driver-san-francisco-shifts-in-large-ish-patch/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/02/driver-san-francisco-shifts-in-large-ish-patch/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/02/driver-san-francisco-shifts-in-large-ish-patch/#comments Ubisoft's focused and fun Driver: San Francisco has received a title update for consoles. The patch includes several fixes and improvements to the online portion of the game that go beyond a paint job. Pull on past the break for the full list.

Continue reading Driver: San Francisco shifts in large-ish patch

JoystiqDriver: San Francisco shifts in large-ish patch originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Dec 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>driver-san-franciscomicrosoftplaystationps3UbisoftUbisoft-ReflectionsxboxFri, 02 Dec 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Steam Autumn Sale: The final countdown]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/27/steam-autumn-sale-the-final-countdown/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/27/steam-autumn-sale-the-final-countdown/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/27/steam-autumn-sale-the-final-countdown/#comments Another legendary Steam sale is coming to a close today -- it's day five of the Autumn Sale, which means we're in the final hours of snagging some sweet and savory fall deals. Right now, get Thief: Deadly Shadows and Dead Space 2 for $4.99 each, or Driver: San Francisco and Fable 3 for $24.99 each, along with 10 other deals. We don't think we need to write them all out, because you've probably already clicked over the actual sale page by now. That's right, do our work for us. Dance, monkey, dance.

JoystiqSteam Autumn Sale: The final countdown originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 27 Nov 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-space-2driver-san-franciscofable-3pcSTEAMsteam-autumn-salethief-deadly-shadowsSun, 27 Nov 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Island, Warhammer 40K: Space Marine continue fight atop UK charts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/dead-island-warhammer-40k-space-marine-continue-fight-atop-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/dead-island-warhammer-40k-space-marine-continue-fight-atop-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/dead-island-warhammer-40k-space-marine-continue-fight-atop-uk/#comments Zombie RPG Dead Island continues feasting on money and tourists in its second week atop the UK all formats sales chart. Chart-Track notes (to the surprise of no one) that Deep Silver's two weeks of Dead Island sales have eclipsed the lifetime sales of any other title in the publisher's catalog. That includes and Nail'd and Prison Break: The Conspiracy.

Another unexpected development on the charts: Warhammer 40K Space Marine maintained its second place position again this past week. Despite a 52 percent drops in sales, the Emperor's fist kept the aliens of Resistance 3 in third.

The only "new" title to break the Top 40 last week was God of War Collection Volume 2, which bludgeoned everything below the 35th spot. Price promotions moved Red Faction: Armageddon up 246 percent into 11th, while Kinect's Rise of Nightmares had a better second week, running up from 37th place to 18th.

Continue reading Dead Island, Warhammer 40K: Space Marine continue fight atop UK charts

JoystiqDead Island, Warhammer 40K: Space Marine continue fight atop UK charts originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Sep 2011 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Britainchart-trackchart-track-weeklydead-islanddeus-ex-human-revolutiondriver-san-franciscomicrosoftpcplaystationps3Resistance-3UKwarhammer-40k-space-marinexboxMon, 19 Sep 2011 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Island shambles up UK charts, Space Marine drops in second]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/12/dead-island-shambles-up-uk-charts-space-marine-drops-in-second/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/12/dead-island-shambles-up-uk-charts-space-marine-drops-in-second/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/12/dead-island-shambles-up-uk-charts-space-marine-drops-in-second/#comments
Love it or leave it zombie RPG Dead Island has consumed the top of the UK sales chart in its debut week. Another premiere expounded righteous force for the Emperor: Warhammer 40K: Space Marine. Chart-Track notes the PC sales for Space Marine were actually higher than Dead Island, which it believes is due to the former not being available on UK's Steam at launch.

Driver: San Francisco shifted down into third in its second week on the charts, while Resistance 3 invaded the UK, nabbing fourth place in its first week available. Deus Ex: Human Revolution, currently in fifth, is doing its part to suppress the Zumba Fitness conspiracy, by keeping the dance fitness simulator in sixth.

Other notable premieres were 3DS's Star Fox 64 3D and Kinect's Rise of Nightmares in ninth and a brisk 37th place, respectively. Check out the drying paint of a fresh UK top ten after the break.

Continue reading Dead Island shambles up UK charts, Space Marine drops in second

JoystiqDead Island shambles up UK charts, Space Marine drops in second originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Sep 2011 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Britainchart-trackchart-track-weeklydead-islanddeus-ex-human-revolutiondriver-san-franciscodsmicrosoftnintendopcplaystationps3resistance-3Space-MarineUkwarhammer-40k-space-marinexboxMon, 12 Sep 2011 09:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Driver: San Francisco getting free content later this month]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/06/driver-san-francisco-getting-free-content-later-this-month/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/06/driver-san-francisco-getting-free-content-later-this-month/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/06/driver-san-francisco-getting-free-content-later-this-month/#comments Looking to discover some new routes in Ubisoft Reflection's recreation of San Francisco? According to Eurogamer, Ubisoft is gearing up (ugh, sorry) to offer some free DLC for Driver: San Francisco starting September 15 with 12 new downloadable routes compatible with all online modes. From then on out, Ubisoft will offer a free route each week over the next ten weeks.

On top of the DLC plan, Ubisoft has also launched its Driver Club service today, though the website seems to be down right now. Driver Club is supposed to offer exclusive achievements, quick access to leaderboards, stats and clips -- both your own (which you can share) and clips from your friends (which you can rate). There's also a social feed, though we're pretty sure it's just the #DriverSF hashtag.

JoystiqDriver: San Francisco getting free content later this month originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Sep 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcdriver-san-franciscomicrosoftpcplaystationps3ubisoftxboxTue, 06 Sep 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Driver San Francisco review: A beautiful dream]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/06/driver-san-francisco-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/06/driver-san-francisco-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/06/driver-san-francisco-review/#comments The Driver series has spent the majority of its twelve year lifespan in Grand Theft Auto's shadow. The original Driver may have hit consoles a full two years before Grand Theft Auto 3, but it was GTA that secured pole position in the minds of the public, and Driver has been struggling to keep up ever since. The franchise's desperate attempts to stay relevant culminated in 2006 with Driver: Parallel Lines, a game that unabashedly and haphazardly aped Grand Theft Auto in every appreciable and quantifiable way.

That was five years ago, however, and in the interim Ubisoft Reflections appears to have realized a very important and universal truth: The only way to win a game you're destined to lose is by not playing at all. Driver: San Francisco is the best Driver game there's ever been, because it is wholly and entirely true to itself.

Gallery: Driver: San Francisco (GamesCom 2011)

Continue reading Driver San Francisco review: A beautiful dream

JoystiqDriver San Francisco review: A beautiful dream originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Sep 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>driverdriver-san-franciscomicrosoftpcplaystationps3reviewreviewsUbisoftUbisoft-ReflectionsxboxTue, 06 Sep 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Driver: San Francisco for Xbox 360 missing Uplay Passport [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/06/driver-san-francisco-missing-uplay-passport/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/06/driver-san-francisco-missing-uplay-passport/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/06/driver-san-francisco-missing-uplay-passport/#comments Copies of Driver: San Francisco for Xbox 360 being sold by retailers do not include the Uplay Passport, a code required to access multiplayer beyond the 48-hour trial period. Driver is the first title by Ubisoft to require a Uplay Passport.

Joystiq contacted Ubisoft late last week when we became aware of the situation. We received a response late last night, saying a statement provided today would "clear everything up in regard to the Uplay Passport codes and Driver: San Francisco."

The Uplay Passport insert in NTSC region copies currently contains a code that unlocks DLC, but is not the code that unlocks the multiplayer.

Update: The Uplay Passport is now free when attempting to purchase through the game. It is not currently available through the dashboard nor Xbox.com. Ubisoft has yet to officially comment on this or on how long the Uplay Passport will be free through the game.

Update 2: Ubisoft's official statement can be found after the break.

[Thanks, John P.]

Continue reading Driver: San Francisco for Xbox 360 missing Uplay Passport [update]

JoystiqDriver: San Francisco for Xbox 360 missing Uplay Passport [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Sep 2011 09:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>driver-san-franciscomicrosoftplaystationps3UbisoftUbisoft-Reflectionsuplay-passportxboxTue, 06 Sep 2011 09:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Deus Ex maintains UK top spot, Driver races into second]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/05/deus-ex-maintains-uk-top-spot-driver-races-into-second/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/05/deus-ex-maintains-uk-top-spot-driver-races-into-second/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/05/deus-ex-maintains-uk-top-spot-driver-races-into-second/#comments
Deus Ex isn't quite ready to give up the glory it earned for knocking Zumba Fitness off the top of the UK All Formats sales chart last week. The conspiratorial RPG may have experienced a 46 percent reduction in sales from its debut week, but it still had enough to keep Driver: San Francisco in second place for its premiere week.

The usual cast make up the rest of the top ten, including Zumba Fitness dancing in third (take that!), with the exception of Madden NFL 12, which found a nook in sixth. The only other new title to enter the top 40 last week was Bodycount, which despite serious faults, found a home in 36th place. Find the UK top ten after the break.

Continue reading Deus Ex maintains UK top spot, Driver races into second

JoystiqDeus Ex maintains UK top spot, Driver races into second originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Sep 2011 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bodycountbritains got talentBritainsGotTalentchart-trackchart-track-weeklydeus-ex-human-revolutiondriver-san-franciscomicrosoftnintendoplaystationps3UKwiixboxzumba-fitnessMon, 05 Sep 2011 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Driver: San Francisco studio head defends Ubisoft DRM system]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/02/driver-san-francisco-studio-head-defends-ubisoft-drm-system/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/02/driver-san-francisco-studio-head-defends-ubisoft-drm-system/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/02/driver-san-francisco-studio-head-defends-ubisoft-drm-system/#comments
Martin Edmonson, head of Driver studio Ubisoft Reflections, really doesn't get down with piracy. "You have to do something," he told Eurogamer in a recent interview, when asked about Ubi's PC digital rights management strategy -- which requires an internet verification of some sort for many games to be accessed, including Driver: San Francisco. "PC piracy is at the most incredible rates," he argued. "The game cost a huge amount of money to develop, and it has to be, quite rightly -- quite morally correctly -- protected."

That said, the final decision on which Ubi titles get the infamous DRM goes to the publisher, not the studio. "DRM is not a decision taken by us as a developer at all. It's a purely a publisher decision. The publisher has every right to protect their investment," Edmonson explained. And while we see his point, we can't help but continue to wonder why paying customers are being punished with restrictive DRM after paying for their games.

JoystiqDriver: San Francisco studio head defends Ubisoft DRM system originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Sep 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>digital-rights-managementdriver-san-franciscodrmmartin-edmonsonpcubisoftubisoft-reflectionsFri, 02 Sep 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Driver: San Francisco to be offered as full download on PSN]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/22/driver-san-francisco-to-be-offered-as-full-download-on-psn/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/22/driver-san-francisco-to-be-offered-as-full-download-on-psn/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/22/driver-san-francisco-to-be-offered-as-full-download-on-psn/#comments A full downloadable version of Driver: San Francisco will arrive on PSN alongside the retail version of the game, Ubisoft's Gareth Edmonson revealed during a Gamescom panel last week. That's right: In what's likely to be our favorite irony of the month, you don't have to actually drive anywhere to buy the new Driver.

Speaking at a Gamescom panel last week, Edmonson said the PSN version would arrive "in a few weeks" which would roughly correspond to the game's Sept. 6 retail release date. We've asked Ubisoft for more details, especially whether the 360 will get similar treatment.

JoystiqDriver: San Francisco to be offered as full download on PSN originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 22 Aug 2011 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>downloadabledriver-san-franciscoplaystationps3psnubisoftUbisoft-ReflectionsMon, 22 Aug 2011 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ubisoft delays PC version of [insert game here] at 11th hour [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/11/driver-san-francisco-pc-delayed/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/11/driver-san-francisco-pc-delayed/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/11/driver-san-francisco-pc-delayed/#comments Ubisoft has informed Eurogamer that the PC Version of Driver: San Francisco will not launch in the European territory until September 30, nearly a month after its console debut. Ubisoft has yet to confirm a North American PC delay, and online and packaged retailers still show a September 6 launch. We've contacted the publisher to confirm a stateside shift.

The eleventh-hour delays for the PC versions of Ubisoft's games have become standard ops. If the delays are part of some piracy prophylactic, it functions as another layer to the company's "successful" DRM. The last minute Ubisoft PC delay tactic has been used most recently on From Dust and Call of Juarez: The Cartel, and goes back further with titles from the Assassin's Creed series and Splinter Cell: Conviction.

Update: Ubisoft has confirmed the PC version of Driver: San Francisco has a North American street date of September 27. The Xbox 360 and PS3 versions will launch September 6 in North America.

JoystiqUbisoft delays PC version of [insert game here] at 11th hour [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Aug 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>delaydriver-san-franciscopcUbisoftUbisoft-ReflectionsThu, 11 Aug 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[You Don't Know Jack on Xbox Games on Demand, Driver multiplayer demo next week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/09/you-dont-know-jack-on-xbox-games-on-demand-driver-multiplayer/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/09/you-dont-know-jack-on-xbox-games-on-demand-driver-multiplayer/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/09/you-dont-know-jack-on-xbox-games-on-demand-driver-multiplayer/#comments Did you know that You Don't Know Jack is available today on Xbox 360 Games on Demand? If not, then you didn't know jack about You Don't Know Jack. And now that you know, you know you can go learn more about You Don't Know Jack, play it, and then find out whether or not you know jack about a variety of other subjects... or you could get World of Outlaws: Sprint Cars. That's the other new Games on Demand release.

The Major Nelson post announcing upcoming XBLM content also reveals plans to release a second Driver: San Francisco demo. In addition to the single-player demo out this week, next week Ubisoft will send out a multiplayer demo. We hear the multiplayer is the game's strong suit.

In other XBLM news, you can save on a random assortment of Rock Band music including Metallica, Blink 182, Lady Gaga, Bon Jovi, and Queen packs this week, and an equally random assortment of Xbox Originals (Fable, Black, Crash Bandicoot: Wrath of Cortex, and Legend of Spyro) next week. Yeah, we don't know.

JoystiqYou Don't Know Jack on Xbox Games on Demand, Driver multiplayer demo next week originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Aug 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demodriver-san-franciscogames-on-demandmicrosoftrock-bandxblmxboxyou-dont-know-jackTue, 09 Aug 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Driver into Madden with new Xbox Live demos]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/09/driver-into-madden-with-new-xbox-live-demos/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/09/driver-into-madden-with-new-xbox-live-demos/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/09/driver-into-madden-with-new-xbox-live-demos/#comments Disclaimer: The headline of this post in no way endorses the vehicular assault of one John Madden, professional sports announcer. It is instead intended to humorously present the fact that demos for both Driver: San Francisco and Madden NFL 12 have arrived on the Xbox Live service.

Though it's not necessarily our purview, the AOL legal team would also like to take a moment to apologize for the editorial quality of said headline. Not only is no mention made of the Madden NFL 12 demo appearing today on PSN, but the haphazard way in which the titles have been truncated are in no way representative of either AOL or the Huffington Post Media Group. Plus, Driver isn't even a verb.

JoystiqDriver into Madden with new Xbox Live demos originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Aug 2011 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demosdriver-san-franciscoeamadden-nfl-12microsoftubisoftxboxxbox-liveTue, 09 Aug 2011 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Ubisoft bringing Assassins, Rabbids, and Future Soldiers to Gamescom]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/04/ubisoft-bringing-assassins-rabbids-and-future-soldiers-to-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/04/ubisoft-bringing-assassins-rabbids-and-future-soldiers-to-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/04/ubisoft-bringing-assassins-rabbids-and-future-soldiers-to-game/#comments Sure, said assassins, rabbids, and future soldiers will arrive in video game form, but there's at least an air of danger in Ubisoft's Gamescom lineup. The French publisher revealed its German cavalry this week, saying that all titles will be available either in hands-on versions or hands-off presentations.

From Dust (released on consoles thus far), Far Cry 3, Might & Magic Heroes VI, and Rayman Origins will be on site. Ubi will also hold a roundtable discussion titled, "Is Online Gaming Changing How We Create?" and featuring "creative leaders from Ubisoft's online teams. It'll be open to press, Ubisoft partners and the show's trade visitors.

It's not necessarily bad news for you, Joe Public. While we're busy watching the roundtable, you could be jamming on some Anno 2070!

Continue reading Ubisoft bringing Assassins, Rabbids, and Future Soldiers to Gamescom

JoystiqUbisoft bringing Assassins, Rabbids, and Future Soldiers to Gamescom originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Aug 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anno-2070assassins-creed-revelationsdriver-san-franciscodsfar-cry-3from-dustgamescomgamescom-2011just-dance-3macmicrosoftmight-and-magic-heroes-6mobilengpnintendopcplaystationplaystation-vitaps-vitaps3pspraving-rabbids-alive-and-kickingrayman-originssonythe-black-eyed-peas-experiencetom-clancys-ghost-recon-future-soldierubisoftvitawiixboxThu, 04 Aug 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[From Dust PC gets Ubisoft DRM, Steam pre-purchase bonus]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/30/from-dust-pc-gets-ubisoft-drm-steam-pre-purchase-bonus/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/30/from-dust-pc-gets-ubisoft-drm-steam-pre-purchase-bonus/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/30/from-dust-pc-gets-ubisoft-drm-steam-pre-purchase-bonus/#comments For being such wildly different games, From Dust and Driver: San Francisco sure have a lot in common. They were both recently delayed, for example, and now news has hit that From Dust will follow Driver's lead by making use of Ubisoft's ubiquitous "Ubisoft Online Service" digital rights management platform.

Unlike Driver, however, no announcement was made regarding From Dust's DRMyness; Steam's now-live pre-purchase page unceremoniously broke the news to the PC gaming community. The controversial DRM platform requires a permanent internet connection in order to play any game it governs, and while the company has loosened restrictions on high-profile games in the past, it's unclear whether or not history will repeat itself. For now, take solace in knowing that your pre-purchase will net you a "Mask of the Shaman" item for Team Fortress 2.

JoystiqFrom Dust PC gets Ubisoft DRM, Steam pre-purchase bonus originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 30 Jul 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>driver-san-franciscoDRMfrom-dustpcPre-Orderpre-order-bonusproject-dustSteamTeam-Fortress-2UbisoftSat, 30 Jul 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ubisoft says always-on DRM is 'a success,' fans are confused]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/30/ubisoft-says-always-on-drm-is-a-success-fans-are-confused/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/30/ubisoft-says-always-on-drm-is-a-success-fans-are-confused/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/30/ubisoft-says-always-on-drm-is-a-success-fans-are-confused/#comments Ubisoft riled the masses with news that Driver: San Francisco will have always-on DRM, requiring that players be constantly connected to the internet for the game to function. Ubisoft has used constant DRM in previous titles, such as Assassin's Creed 2 and Splinter Cell: Conviction, arguing it combats piracy. Players argue DRM is an unfair, frustrating hassle, and Ubisoft is now counter-arguing this point, with the announcement that always-on DRM has been "a success."

Ubisoft said it has seen "a clear reduction in piracy of our titles which required a persistent online connection, and from that point of view the requirement is a success," speaking with PC Gamer. Ubisoft has also successfully angered many fans, who say its DRM policies only hurt those who pay for the game, and citing previous DRM titles that have been cracked, pirated and hacked anyway.

Ubisoft has previously removed DRM from its titles, but this year the restriction is making a comeback -- and we'll get to decide if it's on the level of Justin Timberlake or Vanilla Ice.

JoystiqUbisoft says always-on DRM is 'a success,' fans are confused originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 30 Jul 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Assassins-Creed-2Assassins-Creed-iidriver-san-franciscoDRMdsmicrosoftnintendopcplaystationps3splinter-cell-convictionUbisoftwiixboxSat, 30 Jul 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Driver: San Francisco delayed a week to September 6]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/28/driver-san-francisco-delayed-a-week-to-september-6/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/28/driver-san-francisco-delayed-a-week-to-september-6/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/28/driver-san-francisco-delayed-a-week-to-september-6/#comments Whoops, looks like Driver: San Francisco didn't run the red light and is now delayed one week. Originally expected to reach stores on August 30, the shift-y racer will now arrive September 6.

Ubisoft has also released a new video explaining the game's multiplayer features -- an experience that we've been pleasantly surprised with ever since our first test drive at E3. Check out the video above and see what could potentially be one of the most compelling multiplayer experiences of the year.

JoystiqDriver: San Francisco delayed a week to September 6 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Jul 2011 13:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>delaysdriver-san-franciscomicrosoftpcplaystationps3q3-2011release-dateUbisoftUbisoft-ReflectionsxboxThu, 28 Jul 2011 13:27:00 EST<![CDATA[PC version of Driver: San Francisco needs permanent internet connection]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/27/pc-version-of-driver-san-francisco-needs-permanent-internet-con/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/27/pc-version-of-driver-san-francisco-needs-permanent-internet-con/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/27/pc-version-of-driver-san-francisco-needs-permanent-internet-con/#comments No matter how quickly and adeptly you control your vehicle in the PC version of Driver: San Francisco, there's one thing you won't be able to get away from: the internet. In a brief missive on the Driver Twitter account, an Ubisoft rep confirmed that the "PC version requires permanent internet connection." Ubisoft previously used this DRM scheme for high-profile games, but has since loosened the restriction for many releases. Not this one!

The console versions have a different online scheme: they'll be the first Ubisoft releases to use the "Uplay Passport," a one-time-use code included with new copies that unlocks multiplayer access.

JoystiqPC version of Driver: San Francisco needs permanent internet connection originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Jul 2011 10:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>driver-san-franciscodrmpcreflections-interactiveubisoftWed, 27 Jul 2011 10:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Driver: San Francisco's dev diary explores your good will]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/25/driver-san-franciscos-dev-diary-explores-your-good-will/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/25/driver-san-franciscos-dev-diary-explores-your-good-will/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/25/driver-san-franciscos-dev-diary-explores-your-good-will/#comments
Rather than allowing players to jump from car to car all willy nilly-like, Driver: San Francisco instead depends on a metric called "good will" to mete out the Matrix 2-esque action. We can't wait to hear how this plays into the "dude in a coma" story conceit!

JoystiqDriver: San Francisco's dev diary explores your good will originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Jul 2011 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dev-diarydeveloper-diarydriver-san-franciscodrivingmicrosoftpcplaystationps3ubisoftubisoft-reflectionsxboxMon, 25 Jul 2011 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Ubisoft announces 'Uplay Passport' online pass for Driver: SF, future games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/15/ubisoft-announces-uplay-passport-online-pass-for-driver-sf-f/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/15/ubisoft-announces-uplay-passport-online-pass-for-driver-sf-f/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/15/ubisoft-announces-uplay-passport-online-pass-for-driver-sf-f/#comments Ubisoft has confirmed Uplay Passport, its version of "online pass" or "Project Ten Dollar." The Uplay Passport, which will be implemented for the first time in Driver: San Francisco, is the standard multiplayer pass that will restrict online play to those who have redeemed a code in new copies of the game or purchased a code from the Xbox Marketplace or PSN. A new Uplay Passport, for those who pick up the game used, will cost $9.99.

Ubisoft mentioned it was looking into implementing the feature last year after EA's success. Driver will be the test drive, but don't expect it to be a revelation if the next Assassin's Creed has it too.

Continue reading Ubisoft announces 'Uplay Passport' online pass for Driver: SF, future games

JoystiqUbisoft announces 'Uplay Passport' online pass for Driver: SF, future games originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Jul 2011 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>driver-san-franciscomicrosoftpcplaystationps3UbisoftUplayUplay-PassportxboxFri, 15 Jul 2011 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Driver San Francisco to use 'Uplay Passport' for online play]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/14/rumor-driver-san-francisco-to-use-uplay-passport-for-online-p/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/14/rumor-driver-san-francisco-to-use-uplay-passport-for-online-p/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/14/rumor-driver-san-francisco-to-use-uplay-passport-for-online-p/#comments What's good for the goose is good for the gaggle. Ubisoft will allegedly be the latest member in the multiplayer "online pass" club with a "Uplay Passport" in Driver: San Francisco, according to GamerZines. Since almost every other major publisher in the industry is already doing it, and Ubisoft said it was looking into implementing such a feature last year, we wouldn't hold it against you if you paused for a moment and thought: "Wait, Ubi hadn't done this already?"

According to GamerZines, the Uplay Passport will work similarly to other online passes: restricting online mulitplayer to those who receive a code in a new copy of the game, or buy a code online. There's currently no word on how much said code will cost separately. We've contacted Ubisoft for confirmation.

JoystiqRumor: Driver San Francisco to use 'Uplay Passport' for online play originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Jul 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>driver-san-franciscomicrosoftplaystationps3Ubisoftuplay-betaUplay-PassportxboxThu, 14 Jul 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Driver San Francisco multiplayer preview: Repossessed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/14/driver-san-francisco-multiplayer-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/14/driver-san-francisco-multiplayer-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/14/driver-san-francisco-multiplayer-preview/#comments It's Wednesday, right in the middle of E3, and as I sit in the Joystiq conference room frantically tapping away at my keyboard, I hear my colleague Alexander gushing about Driver: San Francisco's multiplayer component. The following day he would publish a piece about the game's Tag mode and thanks to it, and many others like it, Driver's multiplayer would emerge as one of the show's sleeper hits.

At the core of all the excitement is "shifting." With the press of a button, you can seamlessly exit your vehicle and hover above the game world ... think of it as an out-of-auto-body experience. Then, you can "possess" other vehicles, taking direct control. There's plenty of solid driving, but the possibilities of shifting are what no one can seem to stop talking about.

"It's really confirmed to everyone in the studio that the shift mechanic works -- it's especially exciting in the multiplayer," creative director Martin Edmondson said. "To get people at E3 playing it for the first time and writing very positive things about it is great for the team."

Up until now, I've only been able to get cozy with the single-player component, but when Ubisoft invited me out to see the multiplayer, I finally got to see exactly what Alex and everyone else was so worked up about.

Gallery: Driver San Fancisco (Multiplayer)

Continue reading Driver San Francisco multiplayer preview: Repossessed

JoystiqDriver San Francisco multiplayer preview: Repossessed originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>driver-san-franciscomicrosoftpcplaystationps3ubisoftubisoft-reflectionsxboxThu, 14 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Full Driver: San Francisco car list has two Spiders, two Beetles and a Hornet]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/08/full-driver-san-francisco-car-list-has-two-spiders-two-beatles/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/08/full-driver-san-francisco-car-list-has-two-spiders-two-beatles/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/08/full-driver-san-francisco-car-list-has-two-spiders-two-beatles/#comments After the break, you can find the full list of 125 cars in the upcoming Driver: San Francisco, from the classic 1951 Hudson Hornet to the Pagani Zonda Cinque. Above, you can watch a few of those cars flinging themselves around at speeds that seem inappropriate for crowded cities.

Continue reading Full Driver: San Francisco car list has two Spiders, two Beetles and a Hornet

JoystiqFull Driver: San Francisco car list has two Spiders, two Beetles and a Hornet originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Jul 2011 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carsdriverdriver-san-franciscofordhudsonmicrosoftpcplaystationps3volkswagenxboxFri, 08 Jul 2011 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Driver: San Francisco dev diary talks up Tanner]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/29/driver-san-francisco-dev-diary-talks-up-tanner/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/29/driver-san-francisco-dev-diary-talks-up-tanner/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/29/driver-san-francisco-dev-diary-talks-up-tanner/#comments The latest developer diary for Driver: San Francisco discusses the role of protagonist John Tanner, absent from the series since Driver 3. In the video, he's described as an "historic, iconic" character. That may well be, but he's got nothing on the real San Francisco Tanners.

Continue reading Driver: San Francisco dev diary talks up Tanner

JoystiqDriver: San Francisco dev diary talks up Tanner originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Jun 2011 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>driver-san-franciscomicrosoftnintendopcplaystationps3wiixboxWed, 29 Jun 2011 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Driver: San Francisco preview: Get smashed with friends]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/09/driver-san-francisco-preview-get-smashed-with-friends/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/09/driver-san-francisco-preview-get-smashed-with-friends/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/09/driver-san-francisco-preview-get-smashed-with-friends/#comments Of all the things I wasn't expecting at this year's E3, Driver: San Francisco's multiplayer turning out to be the "have you tried that yet?" game is definitely in the top three. The genius "shift" system brings a whole new dimension to driving games and delivers a "still in the race" feel, whether you're a veteran of the genre or dabble in it from time to time.

I played the multiplayer "Tag" mode -- essentially "keep away" -- as the "it" driver puts the pedal to the metal in San Francisco traffic and the other players try to smash into him, thus starting the cycle of tag all over again. What the shift system does is allow players who are far away from the target (or who just want a new vehicle) to disembody themselves from the car and instantly snap to an aerial view and plop into a car closer to the target. The best example I can think of to convey the intensity this causes is the highway scene in Matrix: Reloaded where the Smiths and The Twins keep taking over other drivers.

Shifting allows you to always feel like you're still a contender as the "it" person incrementally ticks up points. The strategies available also elevate what is a simple game of "keep away" into something you can see playing and laughing about with friends for hours. You don't have to be into driving games to enjoy this type of mode.

Gallery: Driver: San Francisco (E3 2011)

Continue reading Driver: San Francisco preview: Get smashed with friends

JoystiqDriver: San Francisco preview: Get smashed with friends originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Jun 2011 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>driver-san-franciscoe3-2011microsoftplaystationps3Ubisoft-ReflectionsxboxThu, 09 Jun 2011 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Driver: San Francisco preview: Shifting perspectives]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/28/driver-san-francisco-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/28/driver-san-francisco-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/28/driver-san-francisco-preview/#comments The biggest accomplishment in Driver: San Francisco appears to be the city itself, a huge expanse that not only covers the northern part of San Fran, but also Marin County, the East Bay and Treasure Island. Ubisoft Reflections creative director Martin Edmondson gave me a quick tour, showing me both a zoomed-out look at the entire gameworld and views from within the driver's seat in different districts, to give me a taste of the variety in locales. To see it all recreated and in such grand scope -- and running at a smooth framerate -- was quite impressive.

Unfortunately, I didn't get to drive around much on my own when I was at the controls. Instead, my playtime was relegated to roughly the first hour of the game and the northern section of the city, giving me a chance to see how protagonist Tanner gains the ability to possess other drivers -- what Edmondson calls "the shifting mechanic."

Gallery: Driver: San Francisco (4/28/11)

Continue reading Driver: San Francisco preview: Shifting perspectives

JoystiqDriver: San Francisco preview: Shifting perspectives originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>driver-san-franciscomartin-edmondsonmicrosoftplaystationps3ubisoftubisoft-reflectionsxboxThu, 28 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Driver: San Francisco peels out on August 30, 2011]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/27/driver-san-francisco-peels-out-on-august-30-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/27/driver-san-francisco-peels-out-on-august-30-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/27/driver-san-francisco-peels-out-on-august-30-2011/#comments Ubisoft has announced that the next installment in the Driver series, Driver: San Francisco, will hit the mean streets of US retail on August 30. The game is currently slated to launch on PS3, Xbox 360, PC and Mac simultaneously. Separate titles bearing the same name are also planned for the Wii and 3DS.

Driver: San Francisco once again sees players stepping into the shoes of Tanner, who, after being involved in an accident, gains the unusual ability to shift into the bodies of other drivers in the game on-the-fly. Look for more details in our full preview of the game tomorrow.

JoystiqDriver: San Francisco peels out on August 30, 2011 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Apr 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>driver-san-franciscodsmacmicrosoftnintendopcplaystationps3ubisoftubisoft-reflectionswiixboxWed, 27 Apr 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Driver: San Francisco, Child of Eden PS3 dated in Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/19/driver-san-francisco-child-of-eden-ps3-dated-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/19/driver-san-francisco-child-of-eden-ps3-dated-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/19/driver-san-francisco-child-of-eden-ps3-dated-in-europe/#comments Ubisoft's most recent release schedule for Europe puts the oft-delayed Driver: San Francisco somewhere in September, VG247 reports. Driver: Renegade on 3DS, which has itself been delayed out of its original spring 2011 date, is also slated for fall with a less specific "Q3" release window in Europe. James Noir's Hollywood Crimes, also for 3DS, is due the same time.

One thing that hasn't been delayed is Child of Eden on PS3. Ubisoft's schedule gives the PS3 version the same June 17 date as the Kinect-friendly Xbox 360 version. In North America, a June 14 date has been offered only for the Xbox release.

JoystiqDriver: San Francisco, Child of Eden PS3 dated in Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Apr 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dschild-of-edendriver-renegadedriver-san-franciscodseuropejames-noirs-hollywood-crimesmicrosoftnintendopcplaystationps3release-dateubisoftxboxTue, 19 Apr 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Driver: San Fran dev Ubisoft Reflections suffers layoffs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/29/driver-san-fran-dev-ubisoft-reflections-suffers-layoffs/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/29/driver-san-fran-dev-ubisoft-reflections-suffers-layoffs/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/29/driver-san-fran-dev-ubisoft-reflections-suffers-layoffs/#comments The usual Monday blues are even bluesier today at Ubisoft Reflections, as the UK-based studio has suffered job cuts. Develop reports that as many as 19 employees could be dismissed from the group that is currently developing (the recently delayed) Driver: San Francisco. Ubisoft Montreal will now fill the role of "associate studio" on the project and offer support going forward.

An undisclosed source told Develop that the layoffs were wide-reaching, affecting higher-ups as well as contract workers. Additionally, the source cited "delays with the project" as one of the reasons for the redundancies, suggesting that the studio's lack of experience with the current generation of consoles (this is its first current-gen game, after all) has become exceedingly costly. The source claimed Reflections has been "learning as we go along, developing our skills."

An Ubisoft representative characterized the cuts as part of a reorganization, insisting that "Reflections is crucial as a studio" and that there are no plans to shutter the operation entirely following Driver's expected launch early next year. The spokesperson assured that Reflections "will absolutely keep going after Driver."

JoystiqDriver: San Fran dev Ubisoft Reflections suffers layoffs originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Nov 2010 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>driver-san-franciscolayoffsmicrosoftnintendopcplaystationps3ubisoftubisoft-reflectionswiixboxMon, 29 Nov 2010 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ghost Recon: Future Soldier, Driver: San Francisco delayed [Update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/15/driver-sf-and-ghost-recon-future-soldier-delayed/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/15/driver-sf-and-ghost-recon-future-soldier-delayed/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/15/driver-sf-and-ghost-recon-future-soldier-delayed/#commentsUbisoft's latest earnings release brings news of delays for both Driver: San Francisco and Ghost Recon: Future Soldier. "Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon Future Soldier and Driver: San Francisco, which were previously planned for release in the fourth fiscal quarter, will now be included in the 2011-12 line-up," the report notes. Ubisoft's fourth fiscal quarter runs from January through the end of March 2011, putting the releases of both games somewhere in April 2011 or later.

Both Driver and Ghost Recon had already been delayed into the previous "early 2011" timeframe, making this the second announced delay for both titles. At this rate, Ubisoft is going to have to change Ghost Recon's title to "Ghost Recon: Soldier."

Update: Senior Community Developer Kimi Matsuzaki confirms that the beta will still be offered, "and it will be happening closer to the new release date."

JoystiqGhost Recon: Future Soldier, Driver: San Francisco delayed [Update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 15 Nov 2010 12:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>delaysdriver-san-franciscoghost-recon-future-soldiermicrosoftnintendopcplaystationps3release-dateubisoftwiixboxMon, 15 Nov 2010 12:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Driver comic series debuting at Comic-Con]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/21/driver-comic-series-debuting-at-comic-con/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/21/driver-comic-series-debuting-at-comic-con/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/21/driver-comic-series-debuting-at-comic-con/#commentsFiled under: , ,

With all of the comic book news lately, you'd think Comic-Con was right around the ... oh. Well, Ubisoft has another comic book based on one of its properties ready to roll out at this week's event, this one based on the upcoming Driver: San Francisco. Unlike its Assassin's Creed book, which will just be shown and discussed at a panel, issue 0 of Driver will be given away at the booths of Ubisoft and DC Comics (under whose WildStorm imprint it's being published).

The series -- no word yet about its planned duration -- is being written by Stray Bullets scribe David Lapham and Illustrated by Greg Scott (Gotham Central). Its covers artist is Mark "Jock" Simpson, who's probably best known as co-creator of The Losers, a comic which was adapted into a motion picture released back in April. Jock will be signing copies of issue 0 tomorrow through Saturday. We've got the whens and wheres for you -- along with super-sized cover images, in case you can't make it -- just after the break.

Continue reading Driver comic series debuting at Comic-Con

JoystiqDriver comic series debuting at Comic-Con originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Jul 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Comic-BookComic-Con-2010DC-ComicsDriverdriver-san-franciscoReflections-InteractiveUbisoftWildstormWed, 21 Jul 2010 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Driver: San Francisco slides into early 2011]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/12/driver-san-francisco-slides-into-early-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/12/driver-san-francisco-slides-into-early-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/12/driver-san-francisco-slides-into-early-2011/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Though Ubisoft never officially declared a release window for upcoming Driver reboot, Driver: San Francisco, it appears that the title has been pushed back to early 2011. The company declared as much in today's estimated earnings report, citing "the competitive market at Christmas" as the reason for the apparent delay. Driver: San Francisco is now scheduled for release in the first quarter of 2011 (January-March).

It looks like we're headed for a busy first quarter of games in the coming year -- and for the second year in a row. Nope, you're never, ever, ever gonna catch up on that backlog. Ever.

JoystiqDriver: San Francisco slides into early 2011 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Jul 2010 12:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>delaysdriverdriver-san-franciscomicrosoftpcplaystationps3q1-2011release-dateubisoftxboxMon, 12 Jul 2010 12:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Interview: Driver: San Francisco creative director Martin Edmondson]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/28/interview-driver-san-francisco-creative-director-martin-edmond/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/28/interview-driver-san-francisco-creative-director-martin-edmond/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/28/interview-driver-san-francisco-creative-director-martin-edmond/#comments Formed in the mid-1980s, Reflections Interactive has been making games for longer than you might remember. While the studio has franchises like Shadow of the Beast and Destruction Derby under its belt, its longest standing franchise is Driver. This fall the wheelman returns in Driver: San Francisco, and Reflections -- now owned and operated by Ubisoft -- is once again steering the ride.

Also returning to the series is Reflections founder Martin Edmondson who, in March 2005, walked away from Reflections Interactive and filed suit against former publishing partner and company owner Atari for "constructive unfair dismissal" before settling in 2006. We spoke with Edmondson regarding Driver's return to the streets and the finer points regarding the upcoming game's "Shift" car jumping system.

Gallery: Driver San Francisco

Continue reading Interview: Driver: San Francisco creative director Martin Edmondson

JoystiqInterview: Driver: San Francisco creative director Martin Edmondson originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Jun 2010 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>driver-san-franciscoe3-2010Martin-Edmondsonmicrosoftplaystationps3UbisoftUbisoft-ReflectionsxboxMon, 28 Jun 2010 20:30:00 EST