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[Next-gen FIFA 14 trailer is Messi]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/06/15/next-gen-fifa-14-trailer-is-messi/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/06/15/next-gen-fifa-14-trailer-is-messi/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/06/15/next-gen-fifa-14-trailer-is-messi/#comments
This trailer for FIFA Soccer 14 from E3 shows stars of the sport interspersed with early clips from the game on Xbox One. While the next-gen, Ignite engine-powered versions of the game don't have a release date, the game will roll to Xbox 360, PS3 and PC on September 24.

JoystiqNext-gen FIFA 14 trailer is Messi originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 15 Jun 2013 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2013EAEA-CanadaEA-SportsFIFAfifa-14Lionel-Messitrailerxbox-oneSat, 15 Jun 2013 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Get a kick out of these FIFA 14 screens and gameplay trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/06/09/get-a-kick-out-of-these-fifa-14-screens-and-gameplay-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/06/09/get-a-kick-out-of-these-fifa-14-screens-and-gameplay-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/06/09/get-a-kick-out-of-these-fifa-14-screens-and-gameplay-trailer/#comments
These screens and trailer for FIFA 14 showcase some of the game's features. The game is coming to PC, Xbox 360 and PS3 on September 24.

Continue reading Get a kick out of these FIFA 14 screens and gameplay trailer

JoystiqGet a kick out of these FIFA 14 screens and gameplay trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 09 Jun 2013 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EAEA-CanadaEA-SportsFIFAfifa-14gameplay-trailermicrosoftpcplaystationps3trailerxboxSun, 09 Jun 2013 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Fight Night franchise on hold as EA Canada focuses on UFC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/fight-night-franchise-on-hold-as-ea-canada-focuses-on-ufc/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/fight-night-franchise-on-hold-as-ea-canada-focuses-on-ufc/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/fight-night-franchise-on-hold-as-ea-canada-focuses-on-ufc/#comments With EA Canada focused on EA's upcoming UFC game, the Fight Night franchise has been put on hold at EA Sports.

"Right now, a great portion of the core of the Fight Night team are actually the team that are building UFC," EA Sports executive vice president Andrew Wilson told IGN. "Do I see a future for Fight Night? You know, sure. But right now, UFC is where our fighting focus is."

2011's Fight Night Champion was the latest game in EA's boxing franchise, introducing a new "Full-Spectrum" punch control system and a Hollywood-inspired campaign following fictitious convict boxer's struggle to overcome adversity and many, many punches to the face. The series was born from the ashes of EA's previous boxing series, Knockout Kings, in 2004.

JoystiqFight Night franchise on hold as EA Canada focuses on UFC originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 May 2013 19:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>andrew-wilsoneaea-canadaea-sportsfight-nightfight-night-championmicrosoftplaystationps3ufcxboxFri, 24 May 2013 19:40:00 EST<![CDATA[FIFA 14 not coming to Wii U due to poor FIFA 13 sales]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/fifa-14-not-coming-to-wii-u-due-to-poor-fifa-13-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/fifa-14-not-coming-to-wii-u-due-to-poor-fifa-13-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/fifa-14-not-coming-to-wii-u-due-to-poor-fifa-13-sales/#comments With this morning's revelation that EA does not have any Wii U games in development comes the outright confirmation that FIFA 14 will not be appearing on the system as well.

"Although FIFA 13 on Wii U featured our award-winning HD gameplay and innovative new ways to play, the commercial results were disappointing," an EA representative told Joystiq. "We have decided not to develop FIFA 14 on Wii U. We have a strong partnership with Nintendo and will continue to evaluate opportunities for developing FIFA for Nintendo fans in the future."

The game was initially announced for PC, Xbox 360 and PS3, so while Wii U was never in the picture for the game, it still marks a noticeable absence for a series that launches on every major platform each year. It's not the only EA Sports title to avoid the system, as EA confirmed earlier this month that the Madden series will not see a release in 2013 on Wii U either.

JoystiqFIFA 14 not coming to Wii U due to poor FIFA 13 sales originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 May 2013 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EAEA-CanadaEA-Sportsfifa-13fifa-14fifa-soccer-14nintendosaleswii-uFri, 17 May 2013 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Collision Physics takes the ice in NHL 14 trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/04/collision-physics-takes-the-ice-in-nhl-14-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/04/collision-physics-takes-the-ice-in-nhl-14-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/04/collision-physics-takes-the-ice-in-nhl-14-trailer/#comments
EA Canada recently detailed NHL 14's Collision Physics in a developer diary video and blog. New to the hockey game this year are left stick hits, where the speed and momentum of skaters can cause big hits without the use of the right joystick. Right stick hitting controls are still accessible in the game.

The Collision Physics system, which borrows from the FIFA series' Player Impact Engine, introduces more ragdoll reactions to players suffering hits, including the goalie. EA Canada says NHL 14 will also see less hip check spamming and more incidental contact due to the game demanding better player positioning. Likewise, the developer says the system will make better use of a player's individual attributes for keeping their balance and delivering hits on opponents.

JoystiqCollision Physics takes the ice in NHL 14 trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 04 May 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>collision-physicsdeveloper-diaryEAEA-CanadaEA-Sportsmicrosoftnhlnhl-14physics-engineplaystationps3trailerxboxSat, 04 May 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[FIFA 14 scores 'great goals' on PS3, Xbox 360, PC fall 2013]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/17/fifa-14-scores-great-goals-on-ps3-xbox-360-pc-fall-2013/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/17/fifa-14-scores-great-goals-on-ps3-xbox-360-pc-fall-2013/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/17/fifa-14-scores-great-goals-on-ps3-xbox-360-pc-fall-2013/#comments FIFA 14 announced for PS3, Xbox 360, PCFIFA 14 will bring "the emotion of scoring great goals" to PS3, PC, and Xbox 360 this fall, EA announced today. It refines the formula of EA Sports' past soccer games with "Pure Shot" shooting "so players have the intelligence to adjust their stride and approach angle to find the best position for hitting the back of the net."

There are more new (and newly named) systems involved. "Protect the Ball" lets players block defenders while dribbling; "Teammate Intelligence" is self-explanatory; "Sprint Dribble Turns" allows extra maneuverability while sprinting; "Variable Dribble Touch" adds finer control on dribbling.

Of course, if you'd rather exert your control before the match even starts, you can do so with the new "Global Scouting Network," a career mode in which you build a network of professional scouts.

Gallery: FIFA 14

JoystiqFIFA 14 scores 'great goals' on PS3, Xbox 360, PC fall 2013 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Apr 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ea-canadaea-sportsfifa-14microsoftpcplaystationps3xboxWed, 17 Apr 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NHL 14 out Sept. 10 in North America, Sept. 13 in Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/15/nhl-14-out-sept-10-in-north-america-sept-13-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/15/nhl-14-out-sept-10-in-north-america-sept-13-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/15/nhl-14-out-sept-10-in-north-america-sept-13-in-europe/#comments
NHL 14 will (hockey reference) its way to stores in North America on September 10, with a European release (different hockey reference)-ing three days later.

EA's latest hockey game, by EA Canada's Vancouver studio, turns a hodgepodge of EA Sports tech into a new hockey experience, with new "NHL Collision Physics" based on the Player Impact Engine used in FIFA games, and "Enforcer Engine" fighting based on Fight Night. The "Be a Pro" mode now lets you experience the life of a neophyte NHL player both on and off the ice.

NHL 14 was announced only for PS3 and Xbox 360.

Continue reading NHL 14 out Sept. 10 in North America, Sept. 13 in Europe

JoystiqNHL 14 out Sept. 10 in North America, Sept. 13 in Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 15 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ea-canadaea-sportsmicrosoftnhl-14playstationps3release-datexboxMon, 15 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Best of the Rest: Mike Suszek's picks of 2012]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/01/best-of-the-rest-mike-suszeks-picks-of-2012/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/01/best-of-the-rest-mike-suszeks-picks-of-2012/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/01/best-of-the-rest-mike-suszeks-picks-of-2012/#comments Joystiq is revealing its 10 favorite games of 2012 throughout the week. Keep reading for more top selections and every writer's personal, impassioned picks in Best of the Rest roundups.

FIFA Soccer 13
I'd argue that sports games haven't quite accomplished what EA Canada managed to do this year with FIFA 13: Mix in a subtle sense of unpredictability that you'd expect from the sport the game represents. FIFA 13's first touch controls forces players to calculate their decisions on the field more carefully than ever before, as one bad bounce can create an opening for your opponent. Layered with that unpredictability and an always-improving AI is the EA Sports Football Club Catalogue, which builds on the XP system pervasive throughout the game by offering players in-game rewards for their efforts. FIFA 13 is a complete game, and is unquestionably my favorite sports game of 2012.

Continue reading Best of the Rest: Mike Suszek's picks of 2012

JoystiqBest of the Rest: Mike Suszek's picks of 2012 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Jan 2013 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best-of-2012Best-of-the-Rest-2012EAEA-Canadafifa-13frog-fractionsftl-faster-than-lightgame-of-the-year-2012GOTY-2012iosiphonejellyvisionmicrosoftmobilenew-super-mario-bros-unintendopcplaystationps3subset-gameswii-uxboxyou-dont-know-jackTue, 01 Jan 2013 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Failing the NHL 13 academy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/13/failing-the-nhl-13-academy/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/13/failing-the-nhl-13-academy/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/13/failing-the-nhl-13-academy/#comments Failing the NHL 13 academyI love sports, but I know next to nothing about hockey. Maybe my lack of NHL love has something to do with my Wisconsin upbringing, a sort of "no-man's land" for professional hockey. The Milwaukee Admirals AHL team doesn't excite me, and picking between the Chicago Blackhawks, Minnesota Wild and Detroit Red Wings is an uncomfortable proposition.

My knowledge of the sport itself is even more limited. Aside from the terms "icing" and "line changes," hockey is alien to me. Joystiq recently ran an editorial discussing how simulation sports games don't do enough to assist people like me in learning the ropes in the sports they feature. To test that theory, I attempted to learn more about hockey through NHL 13.

Gallery: NHL 13

Continue reading Failing the NHL 13 academy

JoystiqFailing the NHL 13 academy originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 13 Oct 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessibilityEAEA-CanadaEA-Sportshockeymicrosoftnhlnhl-13Opinionplaystationps3xboxSat, 13 Oct 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[FIFA Soccer 13 review: First touch]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/28/fifa-soccer-13-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/28/fifa-soccer-13-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/28/fifa-soccer-13-review/#comments After the impressive FIFA Soccer 12 last year, it's easy to have high expectations for this year's soccer game from EA Canada. Barring any major setbacks to the series, the question of how great FIFA 13 would be wasn't an unreasonable one to ponder heading into the game's release.

This is, without a doubt, the best soccer sim I've ever played. Kicking off with First Touch Control, FIFA 13 adds shades of unpredictability that I'm not used to in a sports game, even after setting the tone with last year's introduction of the Player Impact Engine. First Touch Control adds more weight to the initial touch players put on the ball, thanks to added elements of physics in players' actions. As a result, every play feels reasonably risky, and none of your passes are certain to hit their mark to a point of predictability. The ball might take a hard bounce if you attempt to volley it instead of safely settling it when receiving a pass.

Gallery: FIFA 13 (E3 2012)

Continue reading FIFA Soccer 13 review: First touch

JoystiqFIFA Soccer 13 review: First touch originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 28 Sep 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EAEA-CanadaFIFAfifa-13first-touch-controlkinectmicrosoftplaystationps3SoccerxboxFri, 28 Sep 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Building a better beautiful game with FIFA 13]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/31/building-a-better-beautiful-game-with-fifa-13/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/31/building-a-better-beautiful-game-with-fifa-13/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/31/building-a-better-beautiful-game-with-fifa-13/#comments EA Canada has a difficult road ahead of it with FIFA 13, attempting to follow up a game praised for its inclusion of tactical defending and a brand-new physics engine. The question posed to the FIFA Soccer team this year is: "How do you make a significantly better game than FIFA 12?" Hardcore soccer fans might know that answer, and based on our recent run with FIFA 13, it seems EA Canada has a few ideas of its own.

FIFA 12 sprinkled in the sort of imperfections players want to see in a sim sports game. The Player Impact Engine introduced last year, for example, gave players more authenticity in their movement and interactions. To expand on the great gameplay offerings last year, FIFA 13 includes more dribbling options and a crucial improvement in realism, First Touch Control.

Gallery: FIFA 13 (E3 2012)

Continue reading Building a better beautiful game with FIFA 13

JoystiqBuilding a better beautiful game with FIFA 13 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 31 Aug 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EA-Canadafifa-13microsoftpcplaystationps3xboxFri, 31 Aug 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NHL 13 EU demo out next week, full title rushing the ice Sept. 13]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/14/nhl-13-eu-demo-out-next-week-full-title-rushing-the-ice-sept-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/14/nhl-13-eu-demo-out-next-week-full-title-rushing-the-ice-sept-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/14/nhl-13-eu-demo-out-next-week-full-title-rushing-the-ice-sept-1/#comments Pulling someone's shirt over their head and them punching them in the gut is a great way to pass the time and everything, but sometimes you need a structured sporting event built around beating the tar out of someone. Thus, hockey was invented, and has been continually reinvented every year by EA's NHL series of games.

The latest entry, NHL 13, will be available in demo form for Europeans with XBL and/or PSN access on August 21 and 22 respectively, EA has just announced during its Gamescom conference in Cologne, Germany. The full game will crush your spine against a plexiglass barrier on September 13.

JoystiqNHL 13 EU demo out next week, full title rushing the ice Sept. 13 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Aug 2012 10:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EAEA-CanadaElectronic-ArtsGamescom-2012nhl-13Tue, 14 Aug 2012 10:36:00 EST<![CDATA[Fight Night team developing EA Sports UFC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/18/fight-night-team-developing-ea-sports-ufc/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/18/fight-night-team-developing-ea-sports-ufc/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/18/fight-night-team-developing-ea-sports-ufc/#comments The Fight Night team at EA Canada will develop EA Sports UFC, EA announced today. Since its surprise license acquisition reveal at E3 2012, EA has kept quiet on the UFC-based game's development.

Brian Hayes, who led gameplay design for Fight Night Round 4 and Fight Night Champion, will act as Creative Director for the Ultimate Fighting title. Team and Action Sports GM Dean Richards joins Hayes at the front of the development team, bringing in additional experience from Fight Night, along with the NHL and SSX series.

JoystiqFight Night team developing EA Sports UFC originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 Jul 2012 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brian-hayesdean-richardsEA-Canadaea-sports-ufcFight-Nightfight-night-championMMAufcWed, 18 Jul 2012 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EA Canada creating a new action franchise, job listing suggests]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/04/ea-canada-creating-a-new-action-franchise-job-listing-suggests/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/04/ea-canada-creating-a-new-action-franchise-job-listing-suggests/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/04/ea-canada-creating-a-new-action-franchise-job-listing-suggests/#comments Job listing suggests EA Canada is creating new shooter franchiseEA Canada, whose last shipped product was this year's SSX reboot, is looking for somebody to help out on a new franchise, according to a job listing for a lead gameplay designer. "This is a major opportunity to lead the gameplay of an exciting new intellectual property that will entertain millions of people around the world," the listing reads.

Some of the wording also suggests this new IP is either a shooter or an action game - likely both. Either way, it's a game with a heavy online component: EA is looking for somebody with a "proven track record of designing and balancing combat, player controls, and AI for AAA shooters or action games," and who has a "deep knowledge of the action/shooter game genre." This person must "drive the player progression experience to ensure a deep and addictive persistent online experience."

With E3 going on this week, it wouldn't be a bad bet to say we'll hear more during the show; however, some of the wording suggests that this project hasn't gotten too far off the ground yet and might be too early off for an announcement. EA is still looking for someone to "plan and define all components of the game, including its setting, structure, rules, story flow, characters, objects, vehicles, interface design and game modes."

JoystiqEA Canada creating a new action franchise, job listing suggests originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Jun 2012 05:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-canadaea-jobsjobslead-gameplay-designermultiplayeronline-multiplayershooterMon, 04 Jun 2012 05:30:00 EST<![CDATA[SSX dares you to continue defying reality with latest DLC vid]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/ssx-dares-you-to-continue-defying-reality-with-latest-dlc-vid/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/ssx-dares-you-to-continue-defying-reality-with-latest-dlc-vid/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/ssx-dares-you-to-continue-defying-reality-with-latest-dlc-vid/#comments Image
SSX's Zoe doesn't care that you're comfy with reality - she's got a bone to pick with physics in general, actually. And she's taking that bone to the slopes, as evidenced in the latest DLC trailer for this year's SSX. The DLC arrives next week on May 1.

Continue reading SSX dares you to continue defying reality with latest DLC vid

JoystiqSSX dares you to continue defying reality with latest DLC vid originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcdownloadable-contentea-canadaea-sportselectronic-artsgameplaymicrosoftmount-eddiemt-eddieplaystationps3ssx-2012xboxzoe-payneTue, 24 Apr 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[SSX review: The odd couple]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/28/ssx-2012-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/28/ssx-2012-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/28/ssx-2012-review/#comments Much like one of my favorite games of 2011, Saints Row: The Third, the franchise reboot of SSX kicks off with a leap out of an airplane. And as in Saints Row, the section of Twilight Zone-esque endless sky serves as a tutorial to a variety of gameplay mechanics. When complete, you deploy a damn wingsuit and fly off, presumably to do something else equally awesome.

Soon after, you're quickly mastering one of three control variants (or all three), before jumping directly in to the world of mountains and snow and, uh, wingsuits (did I mention there are wingsuits?). I was doing 1080 Switch Tailgrabs in under five minutes!

But before I go on, let me first take you back to SSX's original name -- SSX: Deadly Descents. Aside from sounding like a brand of violent deodorant, that subtitle is a nod to the nine major mountain ranges featured in SSX, each with its own "Deadly Descent" (essentially a boss battle, but, ya know, on a snowboard). They are supposed to punctuate a particular gameplay hook for each range of mountains. And they almost ruin the game.

Gallery: SSX (2/28/12)

Continue reading SSX review: The odd couple

JoystiqSSX review: The odd couple originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 28 Feb 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-canadaea-sportselectronic-artsmicrosoftplaystationps3ssx-2012xboxTue, 28 Feb 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Snapshot: FIFA Soccer (Vita)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/snapshot-fifa-soccer-vita/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/snapshot-fifa-soccer-vita/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/snapshot-fifa-soccer-vita/#comments There are so many games out there we couldn't possibly review them all. Welcome to Snapshot, where we tell you about games that might fall outside our usual coverage but are still something we think you should know about. Today: FIFA Soccer for the PlayStation Vita.
FIFA Soccer for the PlayStation Vita follows EA's typical response to new console launches: it does much to show off what hardware can do, but leaves a number of features on the cutting room floor.

After losing some of its simulation tilt in FIFA Soccer 10, developer EA Canada crafted a successor upon the ideal of slowing the game down to more real world standards. Fouls increased as consistency in deflected shots dropped, and the result was a much more methodical game on the pitch. It went from being too "arcadey" to leaning too heavily on "simulation" for my personal liking. FIFA Soccer 12 rebalanced those two halves and presented a much better representation of simulation soccer as a fun playing experience.

FIFA Soccer on Sony's new handheld is based on FIFA Soccer 11, and fans of the footie franchise will see the differences.

Gallery: FIFA Soccer (Vita)

Continue reading Snapshot: FIFA Soccer (Vita)

JoystiqSnapshot: FIFA Soccer (Vita) originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 27 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EAEA-CanadaEA-Sportsfifa-soccerplaystationplaystation-vitasnapshotvitaMon, 27 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SSX demo available now on Xbox 360, later today on PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/ssx-demo-available-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/ssx-demo-available-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/ssx-demo-available-now/#comments It's time to return to SSX's pixel peaks and commit death-defying stunts from the comfort of your couch (hot cocoa optional). The demo for EA's SSX reboot is available now on Xbox 360, featuring classic SSX character Zoe Payne in "Race it" and "Trick it" events.

The demo also features some online functionality, allowing players to upload ghosts of their best runs in the "Explore mode." It's also possible to unlock Mac Fraser (pictured) by sending the demo to a friend.

PS3 owners itching to hit the slopes can join as soon as the PSN updates later today. The full tricky experience will be available February 28 in North America.

JoystiqSSX demo available now on Xbox 360, later today on PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demoea-canadaea-sportselectronix-artsmicrosoftplaystationps3ssx-2012xboxTue, 21 Feb 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[SSX demo descends on Xbox 360 and PS3 next week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/ssx-demo-descends-on-xbox-360-and-ps3-next-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/ssx-demo-descends-on-xbox-360-and-ps3-next-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/ssx-demo-descends-on-xbox-360-and-ps3-next-week/#comments If you're anxious to carve powder in EA's SSX reboot, you'll get a chance next week. Creative director Todd Batty revealed the news in the latest episode of the SSX Ubercast, a bi-weekly podcast centering on, well, you know.

The demo will launch on Xbox 360 worldwide and PS3 in North America on February 21; the PS3 demo will be available a day later in the rest of the world. It will feature one playable character, Zoe -- Mac is unlockable through a referral system that EA has yet to reveal -- and two tutorials, plus two events and skydiving.

[Thanks, Jack.] Update: Added more detail via @kfatyas. Thanks!

JoystiqSSX demo descends on Xbox 360 and PS3 next week originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demoeaea-canadamicrosoftplaystationps3ssx-2012xboxFri, 17 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SSX soundtrack surprisingly doesn't feature The Avalanches]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/08/ssx-soundtrack-surprisingly-doesnt-feature-the-avalanches/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/08/ssx-soundtrack-surprisingly-doesnt-feature-the-avalanches/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/08/ssx-soundtrack-surprisingly-doesnt-feature-the-avalanches/#comments True, SSX's soundtrack may not include any songs by The Avalanches, an appropriately named and incredibly talented Australian breakbeat group, but it does include 36 licensed tracks and 10 original songs produced specifically for the title by Amon Tobin, Camo & Krooked, Raffertie, and The Qemists.

There's a complete list of artists featured in the game after the break, but let us save you some time by telling you that yes, it does include Skrillex. Not only is it Skrillex, but it's our favorite song from his first EP: "Scatta," which features sick verses by Foreign Beggars and a drop so heavy that it may cause a few avalanches of its own. A new version of Run-DMC's "It's Tricky" also returns for old time's sake, remixed by soundtrack compatriots Pretty Lights, as well as cuts from DJ Shadow and a Lateef the Truthspeaker joint featuring Hiero-hero Del the Funky Homosapien.

Continue reading SSX soundtrack surprisingly doesn't feature The Avalanches

JoystiqSSX soundtrack surprisingly doesn't feature The Avalanches originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EA-CanadaEA-Sportsmicrosoftplaystationps3skrillexsoundtrackssx-2012xboxWed, 08 Feb 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EA in Vancouver sees 'small number' of layoffs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/ea-in-vancouver-sees-small-number-of-layoffs/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/ea-in-vancouver-sees-small-number-of-layoffs/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/ea-in-vancouver-sees-small-number-of-layoffs/#comments EA's studio in Vancouver, home to EA Canada and Black Box, was hit with layoffs while the studio goes through a "transformation." Apparently it's a lot of transforming, since variants of "transform" show up a lot in the following statement about the transformational studio.

"EA in Vancouver is transforming its studio to align with EA's transformation to high-growth digital formats, including online, social gaming and free-to-play," an EA spokesperson told IndustryGamers. "The Need for Speed World team in Burnaby is leading the digital transformation with 11 million registered players. As the BC studio makes this transformation, a small number of employees are being impacted while most others are being retrained, redeployed and rolling-on to new projects."

EA recently reported a net loss of $205 million in the third quarter, but is seeing significant positive transformation in increased digital product sales.

JoystiqEA in Vancouver sees 'small number' of layoffs originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>black-boxEAEA-CanadaElectronic-ArtsElectronic-Arts-Vancouverlayoffsneed-for-speed-worldFri, 03 Feb 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[FIFA Street kicks off March 13]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/24/fifa-street-kicks-off-march-13/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/24/fifa-street-kicks-off-march-13/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/24/fifa-street-kicks-off-march-13/#comments FIFA Street's "March" launch now has a specific goal of a March 13 release. The series reboot will take it to the streets with 35 locations, street challenges, tournaments and new dribble controls (napkin sold separately).

Gracing the cover will be Lionel Messi, who is looking a little too calm and focused for a game with "street" in the in title. Needs more screaming.

Gallery: FIFA Street (11/25/11)

JoystiqFIFA Street kicks off March 13 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaEA-canadaEA-SportsElectronic-Artsfifa-streetlaunch-datemicrosoftplaystationplaystation-vitaps3vitaxboxTue, 24 Jan 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Do a spin kick with classic SSX character Zoe Payne]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/17/do-a-spin-kick-with-classic-ssx-character-zoe-payne/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/17/do-a-spin-kick-with-classic-ssx-character-zoe-payne/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/17/do-a-spin-kick-with-classic-ssx-character-zoe-payne/#comments
When she's not busy shredding the slopes and jumping out of planes, SSX veteran Zoe Payne is doing spin kicks and ... probably hanging out at Hot Topic or something?

JoystiqDo a spin kick with classic SSX character Zoe Payne originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Jan 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-canadaea-sportselectronic-artsgameplaymicrosoftpcplaystationps3ssx-2012xboxzoe-payneTue, 17 Jan 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SSX to change your working definition of 'tagging']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/13/ssx-to-change-your-working-definition-of-tagging/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/13/ssx-to-change-your-working-definition-of-tagging/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/13/ssx-to-change-your-working-definition-of-tagging/#comments
Forget about all that Facebook nonsense. SSX is trying to redefine the way you use the word "tagging" between friends with its geotagging feature, which allows you to set hard-to-reach points as challenges for other folks. That's way better than a photo gallery feature if you ask us.

JoystiqSSX to change your working definition of 'tagging' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Jan 2012 11:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-canadaea-sportselectronic-artsgameplaygeotaggingmicrosoftplaystationps3ssx-2012taggingxboxFri, 13 Jan 2012 11:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Pro snowboarder Travis Rice leaves Wyoming for the slopes of SSX]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/09/pro-snowboarder-travis-rice-leaves-wyoming-for-the-slopes-of-ssx/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/09/pro-snowboarder-travis-rice-leaves-wyoming-for-the-slopes-of-ssx/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/09/pro-snowboarder-travis-rice-leaves-wyoming-for-the-slopes-of-ssx/#comments
Being the first non-fictional dude in an SSX game is an honor, we imagine, and Wyoming native Travis Rice is the first gentleman to become just that. Above, he describes how he mentally prepares for taking to the real-life slopes, all set to a delightful dubstep wubwub.

JoystiqPro snowboarder Travis Rice leaves Wyoming for the slopes of SSX originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-canadaea-sportselectronic-artsgameplaymicrosoftplaystationps3ssx-2012travis-ricexboxMon, 09 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EA unable to gain rights to SSX.com]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/ea-unable-to-gain-rights-to-ssx-com/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/ea-unable-to-gain-rights-to-ssx-com/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/ea-unable-to-gain-rights-to-ssx-com/#comments EA, in an attempt to gain ownership of SSX.com ahead of the series' February relaunch, challenged Abstract Holdings International LTD's claim on the address, saying that the URL was registered in "bad faith." A panel at The National Arbitration Forum, however, has determined that EA's argument was insufficient.

"The EA allegations of bad faith in part are based upon the lack of due diligence conducted by retailers of domain names like Respondent," the Forum determined. "EA would seem to require that entities like Respondent conduct an international search for relatively obscure trademarks in order to determine whether a name is a registered mark. The Panel is not willing to go so far."

In this case, EA's claim of "bad faith" hinged on the fact that SSX.com briefly contained video game-related advertisements. Since these advertisements are now gone, there's nothing inherently malicious or misleading about the site, negating EA's ability to claim any misuse. For now, SSX.com remains the property of Abstract Holdings, although we imagine several zeroes and a few commas written on EA letterhead would change their minds.

JoystiqEA unable to gain rights to SSX.com originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Jan 2012 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Abstract-Holdings-International-LTDaddressEAEA-CanadaEA-Sportsmicrosoftnational-arbitration-forumplaystationps3SSXssx-2012URLwebsitexboxFri, 06 Jan 2012 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[SSX gameplay gets tricky in latest trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/25/ssx-gameplay-gets-tricky-in-latest-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/25/ssx-gameplay-gets-tricky-in-latest-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/25/ssx-gameplay-gets-tricky-in-latest-trailer/#comments
We're told that it's ... somewhat difficult to put together a rhyme that's within a reasonable frame of time. What's even harder? Pulling off the humanly impossible moves featured in the latest trailer for next year's SSX reboot.

JoystiqSSX gameplay gets tricky in latest trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 25 Dec 2011 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-canadaea-sportselectronic-artsmicrosoftplaystationps3ssx-2012xboxSun, 25 Dec 2011 08:45:00 EST<![CDATA[EA gets tricky with latest SSX trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/18/ea-gets-tricky-with-latest-ssx-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/18/ea-gets-tricky-with-latest-ssx-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/18/ea-gets-tricky-with-latest-ssx-trailer/#comments
Remember SSX Tricky? Electronic Arts sure hopes you do. Presumably, it also hopes you don't mind having your nostalgia hijacked by a nearly unrecognizable remix of the game's title track, Run-D.M.C.'s classic, "It's Tricky."

JoystiqEA gets tricky with latest SSX trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Nov 2011 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-canadaea-sportselectronic-artsmicrosoftplaystationps3run-dmcssx-2012trickyxboxFri, 18 Nov 2011 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[SSX comes shredding in a few weeks late on February 14, 2012]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/21/ssx-comes-shredding-in-a-few-weeks-late-on-feburary-14-2012/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/21/ssx-comes-shredding-in-a-few-weeks-late-on-feburary-14-2012/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/21/ssx-comes-shredding-in-a-few-weeks-late-on-feburary-14-2012/#comments Despite carving out a January 2012 launch window for itself earlier this year, it seems that SSX won't be making its way down from the peak (of ... uh ... development? or something?) until February 14, 2012. EA's official SSX site unceremoniously unveiled the release date on its front splash page, floating mysteriously above a snowy backdrop.

Before the game's arrival on Valentine's Day, might we suggest practicing your transitional snowboarding slash wingsuit skills? You'll never know when a deadly descent (or descents, of course) will suddenly appear, ya know?

JoystiqSSX comes shredding in a few weeks late on February 14, 2012 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Oct 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>delayeaea-canadaelectronic-artsmicrosoftplaystationps3q1-2012release-datessx-2012xboxFri, 21 Oct 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[From the slopes to the air with SSX's wingsuits]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/30/from-the-slopes-to-the-air-with-ssxs-wingsuits/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/30/from-the-slopes-to-the-air-with-ssxs-wingsuits/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/30/from-the-slopes-to-the-air-with-ssxs-wingsuits/#comments Back when the latest SSX was first introduced, players worried that this supposedly "grim, darker" take on the franchise would lose the goofy, colorful elements that made the series so popular. Most of those elements (the over-the-top tricks, the larger-than-life settings, and the extravagantly ramped and rail-equipped levels) have survived just fine according to what we've seen so far, but art director Geoff Coates does say that some of the fun had to go.

"If you look at the character design [in previous versions]," he says, "it's characters that are wearing t-shirts and jeans, and dresses or whatever, and they're being thrown out on these mountains." So it's fair to say that we won't see jean shorts or bikinis on SSX's latest class. "The character design now is taking the characters, retaining their personality, but still giving them that survival aspect. You'll see they have backpacks, they have gear that's a little more appropriate."

"And the wingsuits," Coates continues, "are part of that." Yes, the wingsuits. Oh my, the wingsuits.

Gallery: SSX (2012) (9/30/11)

Continue reading From the slopes to the air with SSX's wingsuits

JoystiqFrom the slopes to the air with SSX's wingsuits originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 Sep 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-canadageoff-coatesmicrosoftpcplaystationps3ssxssx-2012wingsuitxboxFri, 30 Sep 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[FIFA Street revival arrives March 2012]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/30/fifa-street-revival-arrives-march-2012/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/30/fifa-street-revival-arrives-march-2012/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/30/fifa-street-revival-arrives-march-2012/#comments Announced at EA's Gamescom 2011 press conference, FIFA Street has narrowed its launch window from early 2012 to "March." VG247 reports that EA announced the month of kickoff at last night's FIFA 12 launch event in the UK. Copies of FIFA 12 also reportedly have a pamphlet inside the box mentioning the March date.

Not a whole lot is known about the FIFA Street reboot. We know EA Sports Season Ticket holders will receive early access to the full game, and that it features the EA Football Club, along with social network goodies. We expect to find out a lot more after EA Sports gets its biggest sports franchise out the door globally.

JoystiqFIFA Street revival arrives March 2012 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 Sep 2011 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EAEA-CanadaElectronic-Artsfifa-streetmicrosoftplaystationps3release-datexboxFri, 30 Sep 2011 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[FIFA Street reboot in development at EA Canada, coming early next year]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/16/fifa-street-reboot-in-development-at-ea-canada-coming-early-nex/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/16/fifa-street-reboot-in-development-at-ea-canada-coming-early-nex/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/16/fifa-street-reboot-in-development-at-ea-canada-coming-early-nex/#comments EA's Gamescom 2011 keynote has already brought about one intriguing bit of news about the revival of its more palatable, outrageous sports franchises: FIFA Street. Coming to PS3 and 360 early next year, the EA Canada-developed title will bring back the rough-and-tumble action of the original series, with the depth of the later installments in FIFA Prime. In fact, it might possess more depth -- according to EA, it will feature "twice as many moves as FIFA 12."

The game will also feature the suite of EA Football Club features first announced at E3 this year, among other, unspecified social networking features. EA Sports Season Ticket holders will also get early (temporary) access to the full game, should they choose to accept it. Keep an eye out for the game's debut trailer in the coming hours.

JoystiqFIFA Street reboot in development at EA Canada, coming early next year originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 16 Aug 2011 10:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-canadaea-sportsfifafifa-streetfootballgamescom-2011microsoftplaystationps3sportsxboxTue, 16 Aug 2011 10:16:00 EST<![CDATA[FIFA Soccer 12 for 3DS finally shows street soccer in 3D]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/10/fifa-soccer-12-for-3ds-finally-shows-street-soccer-in-3d/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/10/fifa-soccer-12-for-3ds-finally-shows-street-soccer-in-3d/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/10/fifa-soccer-12-for-3ds-finally-shows-street-soccer-in-3d/#comments The 3DS is about to get its second soccer title, with the fall release of FIFA Soccer 12. In addition to the normal professional sports simulation, the new title will also simulate street soccer -- played with nothing more than a ball, a perfectly rounded street surface, and you.

The new 3DS FIFA game features "all-new optional touch screen controls," allowing players to pick the destination for the ball and even control the trajectory of their shots by drawing lines. "Over 500 officially licensed clubs" will be available in Career, Tournament, and other modes. That sounds like a lot of clubs! However, if you prefer to see yourself in three simulated dimensions, you can create a player for the curved-pitch 3D Street Soccer mode, and take that player through the FIFA ranks in "Be a Pro" mode.

Perhaps most excitingly you'll be able to play online, a feature that is still frustratingly rare in 3DS games.

Gallery: FIFA Soccer 12 (3DS)

JoystiqFIFA Soccer 12 for 3DS finally shows street soccer in 3D originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 May 2011 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdsea-canadaea-sportsfifa-soccer-12nintendoq3-2011release-dateTue, 10 May 2011 15:59:00 EST<![CDATA[SSX dev diary brings back some familiar faces]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/30/ssx-dev-diary-brings-back-some-familiar-faces/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/30/ssx-dev-diary-brings-back-some-familiar-faces/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/30/ssx-dev-diary-brings-back-some-familiar-faces/#comments Though it sounds like SSX is mixing up the franchise in some fairly bold ways, it won't be throwing out the series' tried and true cast of downhill daredevils. Check out the developer diary after the jump to see how EA Canada is breathing new life into these powder-caked veterans.

Continue reading SSX dev diary brings back some familiar faces

JoystiqSSX dev diary brings back some familiar faces originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 30 Apr 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ea-canadaea-sportsmicrosoftplaystationps3ssxssx-2012xboxSat, 30 Apr 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[SSX dev diary explores the mountain range]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/20/ssx-dev-diary-explores-the-mountain-range/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/20/ssx-dev-diary-explores-the-mountain-range/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/20/ssx-dev-diary-explores-the-mountain-range/#comments All the flips, spins, grabs and other gnarly tricks in the world won't do you much good if you don't have anything to trick off of, you know. This latest SSX dev diary looks at EA Canada's level design philosophy, which seems to center around "let's make this half pipe as dangerous as possible."

Continue reading SSX dev diary explores the mountain range

JoystiqSSX dev diary explores the mountain range originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Apr 2011 12:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ea-canadaea-sportsmicrosoftplaystationps3ssx-2012xboxWed, 20 Apr 2011 12:10:00 EST<![CDATA[SSX dev diary finally shows off the tricks of the trade]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/10/ssx-dev-diary-finally-shows-off-the-tricks-of-the-trade/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/10/ssx-dev-diary-finally-shows-off-the-tricks-of-the-trade/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/10/ssx-dev-diary-finally-shows-off-the-tricks-of-the-trade/#comments Okay, we've heard a lot about EA Canada's upcoming SSX (née Deadly Descents) -- but somewhat inexplicably, we haven't heard a lot about the sweet tricks therein. Fortunately, that ever-important mortar that holds the franchise together is discussed in great detail in the dev diary posted below.

Continue reading SSX dev diary finally shows off the tricks of the trade

JoystiqSSX dev diary finally shows off the tricks of the trade originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 10 Apr 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-canadamicrosoftplaystationps3ssxssx-2012ssx-deadly-descentsxboxSun, 10 Apr 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New SSX drops 'Deadly Descents' subtitle]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/07/new-ssx-drops-deadly-descents-subtitle/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/07/new-ssx-drops-deadly-descents-subtitle/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/07/new-ssx-drops-deadly-descents-subtitle/#comments EA Sports looks to still any bad vibes that have reverberated from negative reaction to the debut teaser for SSX: Deadly Descents by toning down the emphasis on "deadly." The company has officially dropped "Deadly Descents" from the game title, Game Informer confirms, and has begun a marketing campaign that, in part, assures fans that developer EA Canada is not abandoning the series' arcade roots in favor of more realistic gameplay in the reboot.

The cinematic teaser, which portrays a desperate snowboarder skidding down a dark and stormy Himalayan slope -- his last words: "I'm not gonna make it," as he shoots over a cliff side and into the air, deploying his squirrel suit -- seemed to suggest that the new SSX would be "moving away from the bright colors and crazy arcade feel of the early titles in favor of a more realistic tone," as Game Informer observed. "Is this true?" the site asked creative director Todd Batty.

"No, absolutely not," insisted Batty, who described "Deadly Descent" as a "new" event type in the game, "which is all about survival gameplay." SSX will also include "Speed Descent" and "Tricky Descent" events, according to Batty. "We wanted to make sure we hit the over-the-top arcadey gameplay in all of these different gameplay modes. We decided to lead with the new Deadly Descent gameplay in that trailer, but all of the classic SSX style will be there, too."

The image makeover isn't fully complete, however, as the original SSX: Deadly Descents logo and name are still prominent on the EA.com game page (as of publishing); though the new, just SSX logo was used in last week's promotional video and is featured on the game's Facebook page. Of course, as Joystiq commenter "ptcamn" pointed out last week, lost in this little fiasco is the fact that EA tried a very similar, "survive the ride" marketing campaign for 2003's SSX 3 -- skull-face lightning flash and all.

JoystiqNew SSX drops 'Deadly Descents' subtitle originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Apr 2011 14:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ea-canadamarketingmicrosoftname-changeplaystationps3ssxssx-2012ssx-deadly-descentsxboxThu, 07 Apr 2011 14:06:00 EST<![CDATA[The third pillar of SSX: Deadly Descents: 'Survive It']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/01/the-third-pillar-of-ssx-deadly-descents-survive-it/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/01/the-third-pillar-of-ssx-deadly-descents-survive-it/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/01/the-third-pillar-of-ssx-deadly-descents-survive-it/#comments Following the ill-advised turn taken in 2009's SSX Blindside, EA Canada looks to sure up the game plan for the snowboarding franchise's latest run, Deadly Descents, by introducing a new aspect to the game design: "survival gameplay." We'll let creative director Todd Batty try to explain this one.

Continue reading The third pillar of SSX: Deadly Descents: 'Survive It'

JoystiqThe third pillar of SSX: Deadly Descents: 'Survive It' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Apr 2011 20:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-canadaea-sportsmicrosoftplaystationps3ssx-2012ssx-deadly-descentsxboxFri, 01 Apr 2011 20:40:00 EST<![CDATA[EA reveals some dark, dangerous details on SSX: Deadly Descents]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/12/ea-reveals-some-dark-dangerous-details-on-ssx-deadly-descents/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/12/ea-reveals-some-dark-dangerous-details-on-ssx-deadly-descents/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/12/ea-reveals-some-dark-dangerous-details-on-ssx-deadly-descents/#comments EA wasted no time in getting up an official website for SSX: Deadly Descents -- or, as the cast of True Blood promptly renamed it during its reveal at last night's calamitous VGAs, Deadly Ascent (backwards snowboarding woooo). The page includes last night's announcement trailer and a few screens (posted in the gallery below), as well as a few intriguing details in the game's description. In short, it sounds like the worlds' first extreme sports/racing/survival horror game.

The site explains "players will explore the story of a team who seek to be the first to descend the faces of the most treacherous mountain ranges on the planet." Players will visit "the peaks of the Himalayas, where the air is so thin that riders have to descend through the death zone at breakneck speeds to keep from blacking out, to the solid ice ranges of Antarctica, where a sunlit line is the only survival option when temperatures drop 50 degrees centigrade in the shade." We wonder if you get bonus points if you finish the race with all your fingers and toes un-frostbitten.

The game won't defy the series' penchant for sweet aerial tricks, as the site explains "the first goal is to survive. The second, in true SSX fashion, is to look good doing it." Seriously, we're going to have a hard time remembering to do the latter while constantly fretting about the former.

Gallery: SSX: Deadly Descents

JoystiqEA reveals some dark, dangerous details on SSX: Deadly Descents originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 12 Dec 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-canadaea-sportsmicrosoftplaystationps3ssx-2012ssx-deadly-descentsxboxSun, 12 Dec 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[SSX 'Descent' sites registered]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/09/ssx-descent-sites-registered/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/09/ssx-descent-sites-registered/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/09/ssx-descent-sites-registered/#comments With Shaun White now taking it to the streets, perhaps there's an opening on the slope for EA's snowboarding franchise, SSX, to reemerge from hibernation. A mess of newly registered domains points to the possibility of a reboot of the series, which has been sidelined since 2007's pedestrian Wii release, Blur.

Professional domain registration outfit Corporate Domains, Inc. (what a gig!) has locked down URL variations of "SSX: Deadly Descent," plus an "SSX: First Descent" domain -- suggestive of the popular reboot motif: the origin story. While none of this activity is confirmation of a new SSX game, EA has worked through Corporate Domains in the past in advance of public announcements, most recently to secure web real estate for potential Need for Speed names (though Hot Pursuit was ultimately recycled) and The Sims Medieval.

As for SSX, it's been more than a year since EA Montreal's Alain Tascan left open the possibility for a new entry in the series, saying in September 2009, "If the market is there and is ready for a new one, then we'll consider it." Perhaps through Move and Kinect, EA Montreal sees its ready market and an opportunity to build on the motion-controlled framework established in its Blur effort. Of course, fans of the last-generation games might prefer to see the series' original developer, EA Canada, stage the comeback. And what a meta-comeback story it could be! (The studio could use a big win following the NBA Elite 11 fail, after all.)

Still, all this domain fuss could just as easily be over the naming of the SSX iPhone game, which has been -- quietly -- in the works for too long.

JoystiqSSX 'Descent' sites registered originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Nov 2010 14:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>corporate-domains-incdomaindomain-registrationeaea-canadaea-montrealea-sportsregistrationssxssx-2012ssx-deadly-descentsssx-first-descentTue, 09 Nov 2010 14:20:00 EST