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[Madden 25 will let you move to 17 different cities, revive historic teams]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/madden-25-will-let-you-move-to-17-different-cities-revive-histo/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/madden-25-will-let-you-move-to-17-different-cities-revive-histo/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/madden-25-will-let-you-move-to-17-different-cities-revive-histo/#comments
In Madden 25's Connected Franchise career mode, players can take on the role of team owner and perform a number of new tasks, including relocating teams to new cities. Madden's Creative Director Mike Young told Joystiq today that the mode is designed to limit the franchise relocation option to 17 different markets. The 17 cities include Brooklyn, London, Dublin, Toronto, Mexico City, Los Angeles, Austin, Columbus, Orlando, Portland, Oklahoma City and Memphis.

Additionally, some locations with an already-established NFL presence can receive a second team, such as Chicago and Houston. Players will have the option to retain their team name, logo and uniforms when moving or select from three different preset options for each city, including the Brooklyn Beats. The mode also grants players the option to reboot now-defunct teams from the NFL's history, such as the Columbus Panhandles, London Monarchs or the Houston Oilers. Players can opt to turn off the team relocation feature, disabling the option entirely.

EA Sports provided us with a new trailer for the game in which Young discusses the move from Madden 13's Connected Careers mode to this year's Connected Franchise mode. Madden 25 will launch August 27 for PS3 and Xbox 360.

JoystiqMadden 25 will let you move to 17 different cities, revive historic teams originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>connected-franchiseeaEA-Sportsea-tiburonElectronic-Artsfootballmaddenmadden-25madden-nfl-25microsoftmike-youngplaybookplaystationproducer-videops3relocationteamtrailertrey-wingoxboxWed, 22 May 2013 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EA tweet points to NBA Live at Xbox reveal]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/ea-tweet-points-to-nba-live-at-xbox-reveal/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/ea-tweet-points-to-nba-live-at-xbox-reveal/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/ea-tweet-points-to-nba-live-at-xbox-reveal/#comments EA Sports' official NBA Live social media accounts sprang to life as recently as May 17 after being on hiatus since late September 2012. A recent tweet from the NBA Live team's Twitter account indicates that the game may be part of today's Xbox presentation, teasing fans with the words "Countdown to tip-off."

It wouldn't be far-fetched to believe NBA Live will have a presence at today's event, given the expectation that both FIFA and EA Sports UFC will be shown, or at least teased in some capacity. NBA Live was also listed among the publisher's 11 games planned for fiscal 2014, and will be a next-gen title. This comes after NBA Live 13 was canceled in September 2012, two years after NBA Elite 11 was also canceled and the same point at which the NBA Live team's social media accounts stopped updating. That brings us full-circle, like a basketball.

JoystiqEA tweet points to NBA Live at Xbox reveal originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 May 2013 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>basketballEAEA-Sportsea-tiburonmicrosoftNBA-Livenba-live-13social-mediaxboxxbox-revealTue, 21 May 2013 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Relocate your team in Madden 25's franchise owners mode]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/relocate-your-team-in-madden-25s-franchise-owners-mode/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/relocate-your-team-in-madden-25s-franchise-owners-mode/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/relocate-your-team-in-madden-25s-franchise-owners-mode/#comments
EA Sports lifted the curtains today on one of its core additions to Madden 25 this year, Connected Franchise owners mode. In it, players take on the role of team owner, setting prices for tickets and concessions as well as having the option to relocate teams to both domestic and international cities. Owners also handle the hiring of team personnel, such as scouts, trainers and coaches, and they answer questions from the media. Players will manage stadium upgrades and market their superstar athletes so fans will buy their jerseys, increasing their teams' yearly profit.

The options to import draft classes from EA's NCAA Football series and take control of all 32 teams in the Connected Careers mode were woefully absent from last year's game, but will return to Madden 25. Additionally, the game's primary career mode will receive a face-lift thanks to an improved user interface that includes a transaction log to follow the movement of players from team to team. The mode's UI includes a new Trade Center, allowing users to see what other teams are offering for players and draft picks so they can top their opponents' bids.

Lastly, Madden 25 will feature more media personalities for the career mode's in-game Twitter feed, such as ESPN fantasy analyst Matthew Berry and Fox Sports NFL writer Peter Schrager. It will also receive new legendary players and coaches, including Mike Ditka and William "The Refrigerator" Perry.

Gallery: Madden NFL 25 (Connected Franchise)

JoystiqRelocate your team in Madden 25's franchise owners mode originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 May 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>connected-careersconnected-franchiseEAEA-Sportsea-tiburonElectronic-Artsfootballmaddenmadden-25madden-nfl-25microsoftownersplaystationps3xboxMon, 20 May 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Madden 25 trailer gets defensive]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/19/madden-25-trailer-gets-defensive/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/19/madden-25-trailer-gets-defensive/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/19/madden-25-trailer-gets-defensive/#comments
This video for Madden 25 shows a sizzle reel of defensive features while San Francisco 49ers linebacker Navorro Bowman discusses tactics for tackling players in the NFL. The game will see some under-the-hood changes, including Infinity Engine improvements and the addition of heat-seeker tackling.

JoystiqMadden 25 trailer gets defensive originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 19 May 2013 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>defenseEAEA-Sportsea-tiburonElectronic-Artsfootballmaddenmadden-25madden-nfl-25microsoftnavorro-bowmanplaystationps3tacklingxboxSun, 19 May 2013 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Limited Amazon-exclusive Madden 25 special edition includes free Sunday Ticket subscription]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/limited-amazon-exclusive-madden-25-special-edition-includes-free/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/limited-amazon-exclusive-madden-25-special-edition-includes-free/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/limited-amazon-exclusive-madden-25-special-edition-includes-free/#comments Since Madden NFL 25 skipped 12 years is named to commemorate the series' 25th anniversary, it shouldn't be surprising that EA Sports recently unveiled a special Anniversary Edition. What is a little surprising are the contents of the special edition, which includes a free one-year subscription for DirecTV's NFL Sunday Ticket service, allowing fans to watch every out-of-market NFL game throughout the season.

EA Sports tells us that the subscription is limited to the NFL Sunday Ticket computer, tablet and mobile service. Additionally, those who are able to receive DirecTV service in their area can get $10 off per month for the service, which starts at $225, as well as a free subscription to the higher-tier NFL Sunday Ticket MAX.

The Anniversary Edition of Madden 25 is exclusive to Amazon, and limited to 50,000 copies on each of the game's platforms, Xbox 360 and PS3 (100,000 copies total). It will also include complimentary Madden Ultimate Team card packs every week of the NFL's 17-week regular season. Madden 25's Anniversary Edition is available to pre-order now on Amazon for $99.99.

JoystiqLimited Amazon-exclusive Madden 25 special edition includes free Sunday Ticket subscription originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 May 2013 13:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversary-editioneaea-sportsea-tiburonfootballmaddenmadden-25madden-nfl-25microsoftnflnfl-sunday-ticketplaystationpreorderps3special-editionsubscriptionxboxFri, 17 May 2013 13:21:00 EST<![CDATA[NCAA 14's Ultimate Team mode to include season tournaments, former greats]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/ncaa-14s-ultimate-team-mode-to-include-season-tournaments-form/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/ncaa-14s-ultimate-team-mode-to-include-season-tournaments-form/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/ncaa-14s-ultimate-team-mode-to-include-season-tournaments-form/#commentsNCAA 14 Ultimate Team news While we learned in April that NCAA Football 14 will include its own Ultimate Team mode this year, EA Sports announced details on how it will operate today. The mode will include more than 1,400 former college football players at the game's launch, as well as both solo and special head-to-head challenges. Ultimate Team is the long-running mode that spans most of EA Sports' properties, which combines standard on-field gameplay with a card-collecting system for building and managing your team.

NCAA 14's version of Ultimate Team will also include a head-to-head season mode, in which players match up against one another with their specially crafted teams in a 10-game season, before entering an end-of-the-season tournament. Players can earn rewards along the way for toppling challenges that increase in difficulty, such as coins for procuring more card packs.

The game will receive similar treatment in the mode that other EA Sports games got in the past, with challenges and card collections being added throughout the real-life football season. NCAA 14 is slated to launch July 9 on PS3 and Xbox 360.

Continue reading NCAA 14's Ultimate Team mode to include season tournaments, former greats

JoystiqNCAA 14's Ultimate Team mode to include season tournaments, former greats originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 May 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>College-FootballEA-Sportsea-tiburonfootballmicrosoftncaa-14ncaa-football-14playstationps3ultimate-teamxboxWed, 15 May 2013 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Madden 25 trailer shows a few new moves]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/04/madden-25-trailer-shows-a-few-new-moves/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/04/madden-25-trailer-shows-a-few-new-moves/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/04/madden-25-trailer-shows-a-few-new-moves/#comments
A recent blog from EA Tiburon provided more specific examples of how Madden 25's combo moves for ball-carriers would operate. The latest trailer for the game shows off some of the noted moves, such as stutter steps, back jukes and the runner's newfound ability to recover from stumbling.

JoystiqMadden 25 trailer shows a few new moves originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 04 May 2013 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ball-carriercombo-movesdoug-martineaEA-Sportsea-tiburonMaddenmadden-25madden-nfl-25microsoftplaystationprecision-modifierps3run-freetrailertrey-wingoxboxSat, 04 May 2013 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Madden 25 features ball-carrier combos, engine improvements]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/madden-25-features-ball-carrier-combos-engine-improvements/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/madden-25-features-ball-carrier-combos-engine-improvements/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/madden-25-features-ball-carrier-combos-engine-improvements/#comments
Among the news of all-time great Barry Sanders gracing the cover of Madden NFL 25, EA Sports recently announced two of the series' marquee changes due this year: improvements to the Infinity Engine and a new running game feature called "Run Free."

Run Free promises 30 new ball-carrier combo moves. Using the left trigger, ball-carriers will stutter step before slowing down, enabling combo moves through the use of the right stick on the controller. While past games allowed players to use the right stick to take a step in one direction, then rotate in the other direction to spin away from defenders, these were separate animations. Run Free's system combines these animations.

Changes to the Infinity Engine - the physics engine that powers the series - include the same improvements such as the Force Impact system announced for NCAA Football 14. Madden will share avoidance animations with NCAA 14, with runners sticking their arms out to push off their blockers instead of taking awkwardly sensitive collision tackles. EA Tiburon has promised run blocking improvements, which has especially been needed since the introduction of the engine last year.

Continue reading Madden 25 features ball-carrier combos, engine improvements

JoystiqMadden 25 features ball-carrier combos, engine improvements originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Apr 2013 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaEA-Sportsea-tiburonfootballinfinity-enginemaddenmadden-25madden-nfl-25microsoftphysics-engineplaystationps3rex-dicksonrun-freexboxThu, 25 Apr 2013 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NCAA Football 14 to include offline-only Kinect support]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/24/ncaa-football-14-to-support-kinect/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/24/ncaa-football-14-to-support-kinect/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/24/ncaa-football-14-to-support-kinect/#comments NCAA Football 14 to support Kinect, gets official cover artWhile Kinect integration isn't all that new for EA Sports, as both Madden 13 and FIFA 13 included support for the device last year, the Xbox 360 cover art for NCAA Football 14 includes the "Better with Kinect" banner at the top. EA Sports told Joystiq that Kinect support will be for offline play only, and will be "similar to what we've done in Madden, focused on pre-play voice commands."

Check out the hi-res versions of the game's box art, which features speedy-looking Michigan quarterback Denard Robinson, in the gallery below. NCAA 14 will sprint to Xbox 360 and PS3 on July 9.

Gallery: NCAA Football 14 (Cover Art)

JoystiqNCAA Football 14 to include offline-only Kinect support originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Apr 2013 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>box-artCollege-Footballcover-artcover-athletedenard-robinsonEA-Sportsea-tiburonfootballkinectmicrosoftncaa-14ncaa-football-14playstationps3xboxWed, 24 Apr 2013 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NCAA 14 presentation trailer features White Stripes chant]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/21/ncaa-14-presentation-trailer-features-white-stripes-chant/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/21/ncaa-14-presentation-trailer-features-white-stripes-chant/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/21/ncaa-14-presentation-trailer-features-white-stripes-chant/#comments
This trailer for NCAA Football 14 offers a glimpse at the game's new presentation elements, which include post-play celebrations and familiar chants such as the Seven Nation Army chant heard at many college games. NCAA 14 is coming to PS3 and Xbox 360 on July 9.

JoystiqNCAA 14 presentation trailer features White Stripes chant originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 21 Apr 2013 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>College-Footballeaea-sportsea-tiburonfootballmicrosoftncaa-14ncaa-football-14playstationpresentationps3trailerxboxSun, 21 Apr 2013 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[NCAA 14 to include physics engine, improved running game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/03/ncaa-14-to-include-physics-engine-improved-running-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/03/ncaa-14-to-include-physics-engine-improved-running-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/03/ncaa-14-to-include-physics-engine-improved-running-game/#comments NCAA 14 to include physics engine, improved running gameNCAA Football 14 will feature the same physics engine seen in Madden 13, the Infinity Engine. EA Tiburon is calling the engine the "Infinity Engine 2" specifically, which certainly drives the point home about its expected improvements. The developer told Polygon that the engine will be tuned to the same level as its upcoming pro football game, Madden 25.

NCAA 14 will also include "ball carrier avoidance," which improves the AI of runners so they raise their arms to push off linemen instead of taking an awkward tackle in the backfield due to incidental contact, as seen quite often with the current iteration of the Infinity Engine in Madden 13. EA Tiburon says other physics-based movements will see marked improvement with NCAA 14's Force Impact system. The Force Impact system is expected to lend more realism to the process of moves such as stiff arms, which will now be targeted to specific parts of a defender and carry out all the way to the ground.

Other changes to the game include the removal of the sprint button, which is now replaced with a more realistic speed burst when runners hit the hole in the defensive line. Additionally, ball-carriers will be able to use the right stick to regain any balance lost when breaking tackles. The changes to the running game start with better block targeting for offensive line AI, which EA says is a priority for the NCAA 14 team this year. The publisher will also reveal details about the game's own Ultimate Team mode in May, which is new to the NCAA Football series, but a mainstay in EA's other sports franchises.

NCAA Football 14 will launch on Xbox 360 and PS3 on July 9, and will feature former Michigan quarterback Denard Robinson on its cover.

Continue reading NCAA 14 to include physics engine, improved running game

JoystiqNCAA 14 to include physics engine, improved running game originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Apr 2013 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>College-Footballea-sportsea-tiburonfootballforce-impact-systemgameplayinfinity-enginemicrosoftncaa-14ncaa-football-14playstationps3xboxWed, 03 Apr 2013 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tiger Woods 14 gets Country Club updates]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/23/tiger-woods-14-gets-country-club-updates/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/23/tiger-woods-14-gets-country-club-updates/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/23/tiger-woods-14-gets-country-club-updates/#comments EA Sports recently announced a number of updates for Country Clubs in Tiger Woods PGA Tour 14. Not only will clubs see the 25-player limit raised to 100, but club members now earn a coin payout called the "Country Club Loyalty Bonus" for playing consecutive days in a row.

Stats populated from club games will now be weaved into the whole game, so players enjoying a standard game online will be updated on their club's progress between holes. Other added features include a pervasive club chat option, for players that wish to talk with their club friends regardless of where they are in the game, and club versus club leaderboards for Connected Tournaments. Tiger Woods 14 will launch March 26 on PS3 and Xbox 360, and will be available March 22 for Season Ticket holders.

Gallery: Tiger Woods PGA Tour 14 (Country Clubs)

Continue reading Tiger Woods 14 gets Country Club updates

JoystiqTiger Woods 14 gets Country Club updates originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 23 Feb 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>country-clubsEA-Sportsea-tiburonmicrosoftpga-tour-14playstationps3tiger-woods-14tiger-woods-pga-tour-14xboxSat, 23 Feb 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Madden simulation picks Baltimore Ravens as Super Bowl XLVII winners]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/28/madden-simulation-picks-baltimore-ravens-as-super-bowl-xlvii-win/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/28/madden-simulation-picks-baltimore-ravens-as-super-bowl-xlvii-win/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/28/madden-simulation-picks-baltimore-ravens-as-super-bowl-xlvii-win/#comments
According to EA's annual Madden simulation, the Baltimore Ravens will beat the San Francisco 49ers by 27 to 24 in Sunday's Super Bowl XLVII. So now you know the score and the winner there's no reason to tune in, especially since EA also produced footage of the game's final moments, which sees a last-ditch play by the 49ers nullified by a trophy-winning Ravens interception.

EA does have decent form in this department; its Madden simulations picked seven of the last nine Super Bowl winners. Interestingly, the two times EA got it wrong featured wild card teams as champions. So maybe, on the whole, these Madden simulations are onto something. Or maybe, as Sunday could prove, it's all a load of sportsball.

JoystiqMadden simulation picks Baltimore Ravens as Super Bowl XLVII winners originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Jan 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EAEA-sportsea-tiburonmadden-nfl-13superbowlMon, 28 Jan 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tiger Woods PGA Tour 14 steps onto the retail green March 26]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/08/tiger-woods-pga-tour-14-steps-onto-the-retail-green-march-26/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/08/tiger-woods-pga-tour-14-steps-onto-the-retail-green-march-26/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/08/tiger-woods-pga-tour-14-steps-onto-the-retail-green-march-26/#comments Tiger Woods PGA Tour 14 hits the retail green March 25The next installment in EA's annual golf simulation, Tiger Woods PGA Tour 14, is expected to launch in North America on March 26; worldwide on March 28. Tiger Woods PGA Tour 14 will skip the Wii this year, focusing on the Xbox 360 and PS3 platforms and their respective Kinect and PlayStation Move functionality - Kinect support was introduced last year, while PlayStation Move has been in PS3 installments for a few years now.

Tiger Woods PGA Tour 14's flagship mode is called 'Legends of the Majors,' a gauntlet of nine pro golfers from yesteryear that players must defeat - greats including Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Ben Hogan and, of course, Tiger Woods himself - and for the first time in series history, Tiger Woods PGA Tour 14 brings in the LGPA and some of its most notable female golfers. Players can also chase a Grand Slam for the first time in the series, achieved through winning all four of the sport's biggest tournaments: the Masters Tournament, the U.S. Open, The Open Championship and the PGA Championship.

JoystiqTiger Woods PGA Tour 14 steps onto the retail green March 26 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 Jan 2013 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-tiburonmicrosoftplaystationps3release-datetiger-woodstiger-woods-pga-tour-14xboxTue, 08 Jan 2013 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Next Madden 13 title update lands Thursday, adds Ultimate Team features]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/28/next-madden-13-title-update-lands-thursday-adds-ultimate-team-f/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/28/next-madden-13-title-update-lands-thursday-adds-ultimate-team-f/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/28/next-madden-13-title-update-lands-thursday-adds-ultimate-team-f/#comments Next Madden 13 title update landing Thursday, adds Ultimate Team featuresThe fourth title update for Madden NFL 13 is scheduled to go live November 29, and includes a few new features for Madden Ultimate Team (MUT). The ability to set multiple lineups for your MUT squad highlights the list of changes. Players will now be able to save up to five different lineups.

Another change coming in this week's title update is described as "more nuanced roster management," and is also geared towards Ultimate Team. Instead of breaking down roster management by offense, defense and special teams in MUT, the update sorts teams by more specific positions, such as offensive line and defensive secondary. Each roster segment will show your team's starters as well as eligible players on your bench. The Madden team is also adding a boosts screen in this update, which will display every ratings boost equipped to your team.

Among the other features being added to MUT are quick collections and the ability to play two minute quarters in the mode. Quick collections reward players that are among the first to finish a card collection in Madden Ultimate Team with special bonuses.

"What we're really striving for is aiming these title updates not just at bug fixes, but adding brand-new content so people feel like they're constantly getting a new game experience," an EA rep told Joystiq. Past title updates added server-side fantasy drafts and player editing in career mode. We've also been told that another announcement is due later this week. Click past the break to see the list of bug fixes included in the update.

Gallery: Madden NFL 13 (Title Update 4)

Continue reading Next Madden 13 title update lands Thursday, adds Ultimate Team features

JoystiqNext Madden 13 title update lands Thursday, adds Ultimate Team features originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Nov 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EAEA-Sportsea-tiburonmadden-13madden-nfl-13madden-ultimate-teammicrosoftMUTnintendopatchplaystationplaystation-vitaps3title-updatevitawiiwii-uxboxWed, 28 Nov 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[NBA assured by EA next NBA Live will meet 'mutual standard of excellence']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/12/nba-assured-by-ea-next-nba-live-will-meet-mutual-standard-of-ex/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/12/nba-assured-by-ea-next-nba-live-will-meet-mutual-standard-of-ex/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/12/nba-assured-by-ea-next-nba-live-will-meet-mutual-standard-of-ex/#comments The NBA said it will "continue to work together with [EA] as we always have," when recently asked about the cancellation of NBA Live 13.

John Acunto, VP of Marketing Communications for the NBA told Joystiq that the NBA has "had a great relationship with EA for more than 20 years. We are obviously disappointed that EA will not be releasing NBA LIVE 13 this year, but have been assured by EA that the next release of NBA LIVE will meet our mutual standards of excellence."

EA's Executive VP Andrew Wilson said the team plans on "making next year's game great."

Take-Two recently revealed record sales for the other major NBA licensed game this year, NBA 2K13, which sold 49 percent more in its first week than past games in the series.

JoystiqNBA assured by EA next NBA Live will meet 'mutual standard of excellence' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Oct 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>basketballEAEA-Sportsea-tiburonElectronic-ArtslicensemicrosoftNBANBA-Livenba-live-13playstationps3xboxFri, 12 Oct 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Next Madden 13 update lands October 16, adds career mode features]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/03/next-madden-13-update-lands-october-16-adds-career-mode-feature/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/03/next-madden-13-update-lands-october-16-adds-career-mode-feature/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/03/next-madden-13-update-lands-october-16-adds-career-mode-feature/#comments Next Madden 13 update lands October 16, adds career mode featuresWhen the folks at EA Tiburon told us they were "committed to post-launch support" of Madden 13 back in August, we weren't told just how often the game would see that support. As it turns out, the next update is scheduled to release October 16, about a month after the previous update.

This update, the third one for Madden 13, fixes some gameplay and presentation issues while focusing on the game's career mode. Connected Careers mode is getting some noteworthy updates this month with the addition of player editing for online leagues, the ability to use custom rosters offline, and the option to change offensive and defensive coaching schemes. Aside from new features, Connected Careers is also receiving a number of fixes for some of its glaring issues, including a fix for the online mode's broken accelerated clock.

JoystiqNext Madden 13 update lands October 16, adds career mode features originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Oct 2012 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>connected-careersEAea-tiburonkinectMaddenmadden-13madden-nfl-13microsoftnintendopatchplaystationplaystation-vitaps3updatevitawiixboxWed, 03 Oct 2012 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Madden 13 gets server-side fantasy drafts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/15/madden-13-gets-server-side-fantasy-drafts/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/15/madden-13-gets-server-side-fantasy-drafts/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/15/madden-13-gets-server-side-fantasy-drafts/#comments Madden 13 gets serverside fantasy draftsEA Tiburon detailed the inclusion of fantasy drafts for online Connected Careers franchises for Madden 13 in a recent blog. The feature, which now allows players to run a 54-round fantasy draft when starting an online franchise-style league, was not initially included in the game's feature set, much to the dismay of many players.

EA Tiburon is "looking into adding similar functionality into offline Connected Careers in the future," so the fantasy draft feature is currently locked to online Connected Careers leagues, which can still be played as a single-player franchise.

JoystiqMadden 13 gets server-side fantasy drafts originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 15 Sep 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>connected-careersEAea-tiburonfantasy-draftfranchisemadden-13madden-nfl-13microsoftplaystationplaystation-vitaps3vitaxboxSat, 15 Sep 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Madden 13 getting Ultimate Team 'key packs,' complete player ratings revealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/26/madden-13-getting-ultimate-team-key-packs-complete-player-rat/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/26/madden-13-getting-ultimate-team-key-packs-complete-player-rat/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/26/madden-13-getting-ultimate-team-key-packs-complete-player-rat/#comments EA's Madden team detailed new card packs for Madden Ultimate Team this week called "key packs." By completing full sets of solo challenges and card collections in the Madden NFL 13 mode, players earn one random key card, one of 38 rare collectible player cards available at the game's launch. Those addicted to the series' card-collecting mode will be happy to know that these ultra-rare key pack cards can be traded and auctioned away in the game.

Also, for the accountant in all of us, EA Sports revealed a spreadsheet that contains every rating of every player in Madden 13 this week. After seeing a gradual reveal of specific ratings for individual positions over the last few weeks, this wealth of information should be beneficial for those starting their own leagues in Connected Careers mode when Madden 13 launches Tuesday.

JoystiqMadden 13 getting Ultimate Team 'key packs,' complete player ratings revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 26 Aug 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EAEA-Sportsea-tiburonkey-packsmadden-13madden-nfl-13madden-ultimate-teammicrosoftplayer-ratingsplaystationplaystation-vitaps3vitaxboxSun, 26 Aug 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview: Madden NFL 13]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/25/metareview-madden-nfl-13/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/25/metareview-madden-nfl-13/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/25/metareview-madden-nfl-13/#comments As the latest in EA Sports' ongoing pro football series, Madden NFL 13 introduced the hard-hitting Infinity Engine and Connected Careers mode this year as noteworthy additions among a fair amount of issues. Our review saw the game as "the foundation for eventual excellence." Here's what other critics around the web had to say about this year's Madden:
  • GamesRadar (4.5/5): "It's not often that a stalwart franchise like this reinvents itself so significantly, but Madden NFL 13 has pulled this off with aplomb. Brimming with innovation on the field and off, it's the best Madden of the generation."
  • EGM (8/10): "All in all, it's clear the team at Tiburon took a hard look at ways to bring the franchise back to its former glory. Some annoying bugs persist here and there, but overall, Madden NFL 13 stands as one of my favorite football experiences of this generation."
  • Polygon (8/10): "Madden 13 gives players a ton of options without explaining them in detail, and that's an issue. But Madden NFL 13 represents a giant leap over its predecessors. It's easily the best Madden title of this console cycle, and it's notable for the ways in which it clearly sets the stage for Tiburon to make a graceful transition into the next generation."
  • OXM (7.5/10): "The engine shows a great deal of promise, and Connected Careers features a lot of interesting ideas, but there's no question that this is a rebuilding year. The best news is that EA finally seems to be on the right track. Give it another year, and Madden may at last be a true contender."

Gallery: Madden NFL 13 (E3 2012)

JoystiqMetareview: Madden NFL 13 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 25 Aug 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EAEA-Sportsea-tiburonMaddenmadden-13madden-nfl-13Metareviewmicrosoftplaystationps3xboxSat, 25 Aug 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Madden 13's top ten defenders, more receivers ratings revealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/23/madden-13s-top-ten-defenders-more-receivers-ratings-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/23/madden-13s-top-ten-defenders-more-receivers-ratings-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/23/madden-13s-top-ten-defenders-more-receivers-ratings-revealed/#comments
With Madden NFL 13 launching in less than a week, EA Sports unleashed its latest category of player ratings for the game. The video above details the top ten overall defenders in the game to start the season.

Notably missing from the top ten list are defenders from the Super Bowl champion New York Giants team, such as Jason Pierre-Paul. Even considering his offseason injury, it's a curious decision to leave the 2011 Defensive Player of the Year winner Terrell Suggs out of the top ten list as well, while putting his fellow Baltimore Ravens teammates Haloti Ngata and Ed Reed in the mix.

As usual, EA Sports began casting votes for the top-rated defenders in speed, tackling, hit power, and man coverage on their Facebook page this week. Currently, Arizona Cardinals cornerback Patrick Peterson is winning in the speed category, Patrick Willis of the 49ers has a slim lead over Ray Lewis of the Ravens in the hit power category and also is in the lead for the tackling category. Darrelle Revis, New York Jets cornerback and number one defender in the game is leading the vote for the highest man coverage rating.

Lastly, EA Sports recently released a complete list of ratings for every receiver in the game. Take a look at a more thorough breakdown of the top ten wide receivers and tight ends in Madden 13 and their overall, speed, acceleration, strength, awareness, and catching ratings after the break.

Continue reading Madden 13's top ten defenders, more receivers ratings revealed

JoystiqMadden 13's top ten defenders, more receivers ratings revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Aug 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EAea-tiburonMaddenmadden-13madden-nfl-13microsoftplayer-ratingsplaystationplaystation-vitaps3ratingsvitaxboxThu, 23 Aug 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Madden 13 emphasizing post-launch support, first update in September [Update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/22/madden-13-emphasizing-post-launch-support-first-update-in-septe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/22/madden-13-emphasizing-post-launch-support-first-update-in-septe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/22/madden-13-emphasizing-post-launch-support-first-update-in-septe/#comments The first title update for Madden NFL 13 is scheduled for September 11, two weeks after the launch of the game on August 28. While we have no details yet on what the update will include, post-launch support for the game is expected to increase compared with last year's game. Madden 12's first title update came roughly seven weeks after the game's launch.

The game's "tuner sets" feature, which was included and hardly used in Madden 12, gives the development team the opportunity to issue small gameplay tweaks without the use of a full title update. EA Tiburon's team plans to "closely monitor community feedback and will quickly release tuners based on any major issues reported." The same can't be said for Madden 12, as its lack of consistent updates became a glaring issue in sports gaming communities such as Pastapadre and OperationSports.

"The team is absolutely committed to post-launch support, and we will make it a point to keep you updated on title updates, tuner sets, roster updates, new Madden Moments Live and more," EA said in a statement to Joystiq. Providing the Madden team sticks to its goals, Madden 13 is likely to receive more post-launch support out of the gate than last year's game had entirely.

Update: EA has reached out to say it is unable to confirm the first update to Madden 13 will arrive on September 11 until the date is approved by console holders. While it is anticipated for that date, further testing could push the date back.

JoystiqMadden 13 emphasizing post-launch support, first update in September [Update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Aug 2012 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EAea-tiburonmadden-nfl-13microsoftpatchplaystationplaystation-vitaps3title-updateupdatevitaxboxWed, 22 Aug 2012 16:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Madden 13's top ten receivers, more running back ratings revealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/16/madden-13s-top-ten-receivers-more-running-back-ratings-reveale/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/16/madden-13s-top-ten-receivers-more-running-back-ratings-reveale/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/16/madden-13s-top-ten-receivers-more-running-back-ratings-reveale/#comments
The video above video shows the top ten receivers in Madden NFL 13. Like last week's ratings reveal, EA Sports has hall of fame running back Marshall Faulk gushing over (what EA Tiburon perceives as) the NFL's best receivers.

This year's cover athlete Calvin Johnson Jr. of the Detroit Lions makes an obvious claim for the top spot, but is joined by an interesting crew of top talent. While the 15-1 Green Bay Packers have no receivers on the top ten list (no Jordy Nelson or Greg Jennings?), the New England Patriots boast the second and eighth spots with tight end Rob Gronkowski and wide receiver Wes Welker, respectively.

EA Sports continued its voting process this week on its Facebook page to determine the best receivers in the speed, agility, route running, and spectacular catch categories. As of this writing, Chicago Bears receiver Devin Hester will have the highest speed among receivers in the game, Calvin Johnson Jr. will have the highest spectacular catch rating, and the Arizona Cardinals' Larry Fitzgerald is winning the vote for the best route-running skills in Madden 13.

Additionally, EA Sports recently unveiled a full list of ratings for nearly every running back in the game. Check out a more thorough breakdown of the top ten runners and fullbacks and their overall, speed, acceleration, strength, trucking, and elusiveness ratings after the break.

Continue reading Madden 13's top ten receivers, more running back ratings revealed

JoystiqMadden 13's top ten receivers, more running back ratings revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Aug 2012 03:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EAEA-Sportsea-tiburonmadden-13madden-nfl-13microsoftplaystationplaystation-vitaps3ratingsrunning-backsvitawide-receiversxboxThu, 16 Aug 2012 03:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Madden 13's top ten running backs and quarterbacks revealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/08/madden-13s-top-ten-running-backs-and-quarterbacks-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/08/madden-13s-top-ten-running-backs-and-quarterbacks-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/08/madden-13s-top-ten-running-backs-and-quarterbacks-revealed/#comments
Leading up to the release of Madden NFL 13 on August 28, EA Sports started a campaign to reveal the oh-so-important player ratings last week. The developer at EA Tiburon has released a video featuring hall of fame running back Marshall Faulk, who discusses the game's initial top ten-ranked running backs.

Over the course of the week, fans can vote for individual players to receive the highest skill ratings in the speed, acceleration, trucking, and elusiveness categories on EA Sports' Madden NFL Facebook page. As of now, Chris Johnson (Tennessee Titans) and Marshawn Lynch (Seattle Seahawks) received the most votes for the speed and trucking categories, respectively.

Continue reading Madden 13's top ten running backs and quarterbacks revealed

JoystiqMadden 13's top ten running backs and quarterbacks revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Aug 2012 07:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EA-Sportsea-tiburonmadden-13madden-nfl-13microsoftNFLnintendoplayer-ratingsplaystationplaystation-vitaps3Quarterbacksrunning-backsvitawiixboxWed, 08 Aug 2012 07:30:00 EST<![CDATA[No Infinity Engine, Ultimate Team in Madden NFL 13 on Wii U]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/06/no-infinity-engine-ultimate-team-in-madden-nfl-13-on-wii-u/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/06/no-infinity-engine-ultimate-team-in-madden-nfl-13-on-wii-u/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/06/no-infinity-engine-ultimate-team-in-madden-nfl-13-on-wii-u/#comments While the Wii U version of Madden NFL 13 will have some unique features by virtue of the console's unique touch screen controller, it won't have all the features seen in the Xbox 360 and PS3 versions. Specifically, the game will not feature the much-vaunted Infinity Engine, producer Yuri Bialoskursky told ESPN. The Infinity Engine is one of the hallmarks of Madden NFL 13, imbuing it with dynamic animations that promise to make the action more realistic.

Furthermore, while the Wii U version will feature online play and the new Connected Careers mode, though it will not feature Madden Ultimate Team. According to Bialoskursky, the Infinity Engine was "just something we weren't able to achieve for this first year on the new hardware," a sentiment he echoed regarding Ultimate Team.

Still, while these features won't make it this year, the Wii U version of Madden NFL 13 will have features that aren't available elsewhere, notably the ability to draw routes on the fly and select plays directly via the touch screen.

Gallery: Madden 13 (Wii U)

JoystiqNo Infinity Engine, Ultimate Team in Madden NFL 13 on Wii U originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 Aug 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-sportsea-tiburonmadden-nfl-13nintendowii-uMon, 06 Aug 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Madden 13 on Wii U features touch play-calling, hot routes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/02/madden-13-on-wii-u-features-touch-play-calling-hot-routes/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/02/madden-13-on-wii-u-features-touch-play-calling-hot-routes/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/02/madden-13-on-wii-u-features-touch-play-calling-hot-routes/#comments Madden 13 on Wii U features touchcontrolled playcalling, hot routes

A Wii U version of Madden NFL 13 was briefly detailed at EA's Summer Showcase event today. Developed by EA Tiburon, the game will include many of the same features to be seen in the Xbox 360 and PS3 versions, including Total Control Passing and the game's improved "read and react" defensive AI. The much-touted Connected Careers mode will also find its way to Wii U, along with commentary by Jim Nantz and Phil Simms.

The Madden 13 Wii U demo at the event demonstrated new touch-screen play-calling methods, player management, and pre-snap adjustments on the GamePad controller. Additionally, players will be able to draw hot routes for their receivers on the controller's screen, not unlike the series' "call your shots" modes on the Wii. Madden 13 will launch with the Wii U later this year.

JoystiqMadden 13 on Wii U features touch play-calling, hot routes originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Aug 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>connected-careersEAEA-Sportsea-tiburonMaddenmadden-13madden-nfl-13nintendowii-uThu, 02 Aug 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EA Sports partners with UCF to create Innovation Lab program]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/28/ea-sports-partners-with-ucf-to-create-innovation-lab-program/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/28/ea-sports-partners-with-ucf-to-create-innovation-lab-program/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/28/ea-sports-partners-with-ucf-to-create-innovation-lab-program/#comments EA Sports partners with UCF to create Innovation Lab program

EA Sports partnered with the University of Central Florida's FIEA (Florida Interactive Entertainment Academy) to create an "innovation lab" for students to work on projects in the games industry. EA Sports will offer additional internships for students, in which they will work on "the latest products for the latest platforms, using the latest tools and technologies."

"By establishing pipelines directly into existing Orlando-based digital media businesses, including our local EA SPORTS studio, EA-Tiburon, we can keep creating jobs in the state of Florida," EA Sports VP and COO Daryl Holt said in the announcement.

Florida Governor Rick Scott echoed Holt's sentiments. "Preparing Florida students for high-tech jobs, along with our state's competitive economic incentives, gives Florida an advantage over other states and ensures high-value businesses open their doors in our state, instead of somewhere else," he said.

The relationship between EA Sports and FIEA dates back to March 2005, when former EA VP and COO Ben Noel became the executive director of the academic program.

JoystiqEA Sports partners with UCF to create Innovation Lab program originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Jun 2012 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ben-noeldaryl-holtEA-Sportsea-tiburonfieaflorida-interactive-entertainment-academyrick-scottucfuniversity-of-central-floridaThu, 28 Jun 2012 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PixelFoundry founded by EA Tiburon vets, first game is PC title BlackSpace]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/23/pixelfoundry-founded-by-ea-tiburon-vets-first-game-is-pc-title/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/23/pixelfoundry-founded-by-ea-tiburon-vets-first-game-is-pc-title/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/23/pixelfoundry-founded-by-ea-tiburon-vets-first-game-is-pc-title/#comments
EA Tiburon vets Volga Aksoy and Jerry Phaneuf have established new studio PixelFoundry down in Orlando, Florida. The two-man team is currently working on a PC title called BlackSpace, which they plan to launch on digital distribution platforms "as soon as possible."

"I personally am a huge fan of games like the Wing Commander series. I also am one of the few that still think RTS when someone mentions Warcraft. If it's done properly, many elements of those two games can be melded," Phaneuf told Joystiq. "We see this as a great opportunity to make the game that we can't wait to play. So we're pretty excited about getting it done soon, but also growing it over time as well."

At its core, BlackSpace is a real-time strategy game, with action elements and an emphasis on economic and "defensive efficiency within the context of a intergalactic mining operation." Players control surface and orbital operations on an asteroid through a low-gravity support vehicle.

"The game has been a long standing project of mostly various tests and snips of art cobbled together with bits of code. We decided to wipe the project clean, get serious, and start working on it full time at the beginning of this year," Aksoy explained when asked how long they'd been working on BlackSpace.

They plan to launch the game, receive "insights on the experience from the community" and build on the core game to make it generally more expansive. "Story line, the macro game, and social portal connectivity" are all targeted for expansion after the initial release.

JoystiqPixelFoundry founded by EA Tiburon vets, first game is PC title BlackSpace originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>black-spaceBlackSpaceeaea-tiburonelectronic-artsJerry-Phaneufpcpixel-foundryPixelFoundryVolga-AksoyThu, 23 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NFL Blitz is like a trip back in time]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/19/nfl-blitz-is-like-a-trip-back-in-time/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/19/nfl-blitz-is-like-a-trip-back-in-time/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/19/nfl-blitz-is-like-a-trip-back-in-time/#comments I should preface this by saying I love NFL Blitz. I dumped tons of quarters into the original arcade machine and when it came to N64, I was the guy going to the arcade with his memory card. Those were good times.

Now I know Blitz: The League and its follow-up left a bad taste in your mouth, but EA's NFL Blitz is exactly what you've been waiting for -- well, it's what I've been waiting for, anyway. The only difference in gameplay from the original is that there are no longer any post-play interactions. I'll admit I was sad to hear about the game's entire lack of elbow drops, but it's such a small thing when you consider how much EA has put into this $15 package.

Gallery: NFL Blitz

Continue reading NFL Blitz is like a trip back in time

JoystiqNFL Blitz is like a trip back in time originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 19 Nov 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-sportsea-tiburonelectronic-artsmicrosoftnfl-blitzplaystationps3xboxSat, 19 Nov 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview: Madden NFL 12]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/26/metareview-madden-nfl-12/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/26/metareview-madden-nfl-12/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/26/metareview-madden-nfl-12/#comments You already know how we feel about Madden NFL 12. But did the rest of the gaming press feel the same way about this year's virtual tailgaiting-enabler as our reviewer did? In short: kinda.
  • GameTrailers (8.5/10): "Despite the bugs and quirks, Madden NFL 12 still manages to play a convincing game of pigskin. Your tolerance for the gaffes will be directly proportional to how much you have on the line in each game. It doesn't always function realistically, but we like the idea behind dynamic player performance."
  • IGN (8.0/10): "If you're worried that EA has fumbled among the rough and tumble of sports politics, relax. Madden NFL 12 is a solid, tighter football game, even though it's a largely similar one."
  • Game Informer (7.5/10): "Like a desperate team that has stocked up on high-profile free agents thinking it's on the cusp of a championship, Madden NFL 12 looks good in practice, but where it counts it's a jumbled mess of frustration, unmet expectations, and sloppy play ... Past Maddens either delivered new features or fixed old problems, but this year you get neither. In too many instances Madden 12 takes you down promising paths that only lead to dead ends.
For more discussion, you can listen to a podcast roundtable of Madden NFL 12 reviewers featuring Mike Suszek (Joystiq), Kat Bailey (GamePro), and Rich Grisham (GamesRadar).

Gallery: Madden NFL 12 (8/25/11)

JoystiqMetareview: Madden NFL 12 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Aug 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-sportsea-tiburonelectronic-artsmadden-nfl-12metareviewmicrosoftplaystationps3xboxFri, 26 Aug 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EA staffer says goodbye with Swords & Sworcery-esque creation]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/13/ea-staffer-says-goodbye-with-swords-and-sworcery-esque-creation/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/13/ea-staffer-says-goodbye-with-swords-and-sworcery-esque-creation/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/13/ea-staffer-says-goodbye-with-swords-and-sworcery-esque-creation/#comments EA Tiburon just lost software engineer Ben Burbank. And while the Madden franchise will charge on without him, Burbank made a special creation to remember the people he worked with while at EA. Titled "So Long, Old Friends," the interactive goodbye letter remembers the individuals and teams that shaped his time at the publisher -- from the team behind NFL Head Coach to the folks who work on the annual Madden installment.

Visually inspired by Capybara's Superbrothers: Swords & Sworcery EP, the game was built entirely in Flixel, Adam "Atomic" Saltsman's open-source coding engine. And like S:S&SEP, Burbank's creation is more of an "experience" than a "game" (in the strictest sense). It's also rather touching, which is why we can't suggest enough that you spend the five minutes required to check it out.

JoystiqEA staffer says goodbye with Swords & Sworcery-esque creation originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 May 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adam-atomicadam-saltsmanben-burbankcapybara-gameseaea-tiburonelectronic-artsflixelmacmadden-nflnfl-head-coachpcso-long-old-friendsFri, 13 May 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Madden 12's roster of updates includes custom playbooks, new collision system]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/29/madden-12s-roster-of-updates-includes-custom-playbooks-new-col/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/29/madden-12s-roster-of-updates-includes-custom-playbooks-new-col/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/29/madden-12s-roster-of-updates-includes-custom-playbooks-new-col/#comments Even if you don't know who that guy is on the Madden 12 box, you've still probably got a pretty good idea of what's inside. No surprises here -- it's still a football video game. But, true to tradition, this year's iteration will include some new features.

On the field, Madden 12 players will be equipped with "the #1 most requested feature by fans in recent years" -- go on, guess! ... Wrong. It's custom playbooks, which can be modifications of existing playbooks or your own concoction of up to 400 offensive or defensive plays handpicked from the piles of X's and O's. Custom playbooks can also be integrated into the "improved" GameFlow system (last Madden's much ballyhooed feature).

Once you actually call a play (or GameFlow calls one for you), EA would have you take notice of the "all-new collision system" -- we're talking "over 100 new tackle animations, including 40 gang tackles" (ouch!) -- and the now more "advanced" defensive AI, a.k.a. "the smartest Madden defense ever." And be sure to give props to the "completely overhauled presentation," which includes "innovative 'real' on-field cameras shot by expert NFL Films cameramen." And, really, how else could you experience the "hundreds of visual improvements" (including really detailed blades of grass!), if not through the innovative "real" on-field cameras shot by expert NFL Films cameramen?

But the roster of updates doesn't end there -- we just have to. Stay tuned in the coming weeks and months as EA reveals more about the revamped Franchise and Superstar modes; the new "Dynamic Player Performance" feature (it's "just like the real NFL," only still pretty much a video game); what's in store for the "Madden NFL Ultimate Team" add-on this year; and the proper etiquette for joining one of the new "Online Communities." And by then, it should be football season! Fingers crossed.

JoystiqMadden 12's roster of updates includes custom playbooks, new collision system originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Apr 2011 09:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>collision-systemcustom-playbooksdynamic-player-performanceeaea-sportsea-tiburonmadden-nfl-12microsoftonline-communitiesplaystationps3xboxFri, 29 Apr 2011 09:20:00 EST<![CDATA[PSN devs offer mixed reactions to cost of outage]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/27/psn-devs-offer-mixed-reactions-to-cost-of-outage/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/27/psn-devs-offer-mixed-reactions-to-cost-of-outage/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/27/psn-devs-offer-mixed-reactions-to-cost-of-outage/#comments As consumers scramble to deal with the ramifications (identity theft!) of the PlayStation Network breach and subsequent outage, PSN developers are struggling with anxieties of their own.

"PSN being out definitely affects our bottom line," Q-Games Dylan Cuthbert told IndustryGamers, "but as long as the people who were going to be playing Shooter 2 and other PixelJunk titles will get right back in there playing them when it comes back up, we'll be happy and hopefully income won't be dented too much." That could prove to be a big "but" -- Cuthbert's comments came before we knew PSN users' personal information had been stolen and consumer trust in Sony perhaps irrevocably damaged.

Speaking to Develop, a UK-based developer, wishing to remain anonymous, observed that "people will be a bit more wary about using their credit card on PSN, so obviously we're nervous about sales."

"There may be a lot of people who won't want to spend their money through PlayStation Network now," the same developer added. "We're expecting a 5-10 percent drop in business." The dev estimated that the studio has already lost "thousands" in expected revenue.

Continue reading PSN devs offer mixed reactions to cost of outage

JoystiqPSN devs offer mixed reactions to cost of outage originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Apr 2011 13:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dylan-cuthbertea-tiburonjust-add-watermad-blocker-alphamichael-pachteropen-emotionoutagepaddy-murphyplaystationps3psnpsn-outage-2011pspq-gamessonystewart-gilrayukWed, 27 Apr 2011 13:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Madden creative director departs along with EA Sports CTO [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/16/madden-creative-director-departs-along-with-ea-sports-cto/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/16/madden-creative-director-departs-along-with-ea-sports-cto/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/16/madden-creative-director-departs-along-with-ea-sports-cto/#commentsMadden 12 creative director Ian Cummings has announced his departure from EA on the official Madden Blog. His last day with EA Sports and the Central Florida-based Tiburon studio was yesterday, he confirmed in a tweet. He leaves behind a nearly 11-year career with the company to "seek opportunities elsewhere" -- in other words, "a new company."

"I leave the Madden NFL 12 development team with confidence that it is in great hands," wrote Cummings in his final Madden Blog post. Apparently, those hands don't belong to Richard Wifall. The EA Sports chief technology officer tweeted today that he had left, too.

The pair of high-profile resignations was first hinted at in a report last Sunday by sports game news site pastapadre.com, which suggested that "several high level members" of the Madden development team "may be joining a new studio." That studio is thought to be social gaming startup Row Sham Bow, founded by former EA Tiburon GM Philip Holt (aha!) and conveniently located in nearby Winter Park, Fla. According to the Orlando Business Journal, Row Sham Bow plans to create 60 "high-wage" jobs -- just the thing to lure over a few old friends.

Update: Wifall confirmed with Joystiq that he is indeed teaming up with Holt, Cummings, "and some other talented individuals" at Row Sham Bow. "We aren't ready to talk about our plans just yet," he added. "When we are ready to talk, you can expect to find out more at rowshambow.com."

[Pictured: Cummings; image credit: EA.com]

JoystiqMadden creative director departs along with EA Sports CTO [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 16 Apr 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ea-sportsea-tiburonian-cummingsmaddenmadden-nfl-12philip-holtrichard-wifallrow-sham-bowsocial-gamingtiburonSat, 16 Apr 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NBA Jam: On Fire Edition drives to PSN, XBLA this October]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/05/nba-jam-on-fire-edition-drives-to-psn-xbla-this-october/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/05/nba-jam-on-fire-edition-drives-to-psn-xbla-this-october/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/05/nba-jam-on-fire-edition-drives-to-psn-xbla-this-october/#comments EA Sports is working on a follow-up to last year's reboot of NBA Jam, but this one's going download-only. NBA Jam: On Fire Edition is set to take the court in October for both PS3 and Xbox Live (no Wii release announced) and will arrive via PlayStation Network and Xbox Live Arcade, respectively. It's worth noting that last year's game was a full $50 retail release, but a stripped-down version was originally planned as a downloadable title free to those who purchased new copies of the ill-fated NBA Elite 11.

On Fire Edition will benefit from new opponent AI (adapted from the Fight Night titles), revamped visuals and a host of new online features including an online co-op "Road Trip" campaign mode and roster updates. The new AI is promising competition that "learns your tendencies and throws them back in your face."

Y'know, kind of like having the fact that you paid 50 bucks for the last game, when this one will probably run $15-20, thrown back in your face. Boomshakalaka!

Continue reading NBA Jam: On Fire Edition drives to PSN, XBLA this October

JoystiqNBA Jam: On Fire Edition drives to PSN, XBLA this October originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Apr 2011 17:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>basketballeaea-tiburonelectronic-artsmicrosoftnbanba-jamnba-jam-on-fire-editionplaystationps3psnsportstiburonxblaxboxTue, 05 Apr 2011 17:08:00 EST<![CDATA[Next EA basketball simulation game coming fall 2012]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/05/next-ea-basketball-simulation-game-coming-fall-2012/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/05/next-ea-basketball-simulation-game-coming-fall-2012/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/05/next-ea-basketball-simulation-game-coming-fall-2012/#comments Buried at the bottom of a press release for NBA Jam: On Fire Edition -- a downloadable title coming this fall to PSN and XBLA -- is news that the next "real" basketball game from EA Sports won't be here until fall 2012. Nothing makes for a better distraction than (NBA Jam: On) Fire!

"As planned, our next NBA simulation title is in development at our Tiburon Studio in Orlando," EA Sports president Peter Moore said in the announcement. "We have top talent on the game, and we're giving the new development team time to deliver a superior experience. We're making great strides and looking forward to launching a new game next year." That lesson about giving the team plenty of time was learned the hard way: through the near-release and scrapping of NBA Elite 11.

This means it'll be three full years between EA basketball sims, during which time 2K Sports will enjoy its status as the Harlem Globetrotters of the basketball video game market.

Continue reading Next EA basketball simulation game coming fall 2012

JoystiqNext EA basketball simulation game coming fall 2012 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Apr 2011 17:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>basketballeaea-sportsea-tiburonelectronic-artsfall-2012nbapeter-mooreTue, 05 Apr 2011 17:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: EA Tiburon early in development on new NFL Blitz]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/21/rumor-ea-tiburon-early-in-development-on-new-nfl-blitz/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/21/rumor-ea-tiburon-early-in-development-on-new-nfl-blitz/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/21/rumor-ea-tiburon-early-in-development-on-new-nfl-blitz/#comments Giant Bomb reports that an anonymous tipster recently sent word of a fairly thrilling project that's currently in the early stages of development at EA Sports: A reboot of the NFL Blitz franchise. The rights for EA to do so were apparently acquired when the publisher purchased the NBA Jam license from Midway -- we wonder if they were holding a two-for-one sale on over-the-top, lawless sports simulations?

According to Giant Bomb's report, the game is in development at EA Tiburon, the current home of NFL Blitz co-creator Mark Turmell. The only other details that came from the anonymous tipster are that the game would get a multiplatform release, and probably won't arrive until 2012. It's not a lot to go on, but it's enough to fill our heads with beautiful visions of 30-yard first downs and late, late hits. We've contacted EA for a comment on Giant Bomb's report.

JoystiqRumor: EA Tiburon early in development on new NFL Blitz originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 21 Nov 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-sportsea-tiburonmark-turmellnfl-blitzSun, 21 Nov 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[NBA Elite 11 canceled, series handed off to EA Tiburon]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/02/nba-elite-11-canceled-series-handed-off-to-ea-tiburon/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/02/nba-elite-11-canceled-series-handed-off-to-ea-tiburon/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/02/nba-elite-11-canceled-series-handed-off-to-ea-tiburon/#comments EA Sports has decided to give NBA Elite 11 the longest delay possible, updating the game's release date to never. EA's John Schappert confirmed during a recent investor's call that "we have elected to cancel NBA Elite 11."

Elite had attempted to completely rework EA's basketball pedigree, abandoning the gameplay and namesake of EA's long-running NBA Live franchise. The gamble appears to have backfired, and development of the next EA Sports basketball title is being moved from EA Canada to the studio famous for Madden. "Future development of that franchise will be handled at EA Tiburon in Orlando," Schappert confirmed.

JoystiqNBA Elite 11 canceled, series handed off to EA Tiburon originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Nov 2010 17:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>canceledcancellationeaea-sportsea-tiburonearningsfinancialfy-2011microsoftNBA-Elite-11playstationps3q2xboxTue, 02 Nov 2010 17:44:00 EST<![CDATA[EA Sports MMA review: Coming out swinging]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/19/ea-sports-mma-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/19/ea-sports-mma-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/19/ea-sports-mma-review/#comments Repeat after me: This is a sport simulation. This is a sport simulation. This is a sport simulation.

If you come to EA Sports MMA for a button-mashing brawl, you're sure to be disappointed. However, if you want to test your fighting skills in a surprisingly deep and precise recreation of the sport of mixed martial arts, you're in for a treat.

Gallery: EA Sports MMA (TGS 2010)

Continue reading EA Sports MMA review: Coming out swinging

JoystiqEA Sports MMA review: Coming out swinging originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Oct 2010 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-sportsea-sports-mmaea-tiburonmicrosoftmmaplaystationps3xboxTue, 19 Oct 2010 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massive fan-made Command and Conquer game released]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/23/massive-fan-made-command-and-conquer-game-released/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/23/massive-fan-made-command-and-conquer-game-released/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/23/massive-fan-made-command-and-conquer-game-released/#commentsFiled under: , ,

When devoted fans of a video game franchise have a story to tell within the confines of the franchise's universe, they usually turn to written fanfic. The team at CNCLabs had a different idea: Why not turn their story, inspired by a group of soldiers encountered in Command and Conquer: Tiberian Sun Firestorm -- then never heard from again -- into a fully realized video game? After three years in development, their lofty goal was met, resulting in the release of Command and Conquer 3: The Forgotten.

Our personal favorite aspect of the fan-made expansion? True to the series, it's got live-action cutscenes. Sure, they might lack appearances by old, old, old wrestlers, but we'll be damned if they don't have heart. You can check out a trailer for the fan game after the jump, or download it on The Forgotten's official site.

Continue reading Massive fan-made Command and Conquer game released

JoystiqMassive fan-made Command and Conquer game released originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Sep 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cnclabsCommand-and-Conquer-3Command-and-Conquer-3-Tiberium-Warsea-tiburonfanfanmademodpcThu, 23 Sep 2010 15:00:00 EST