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['Murdered' teased by spooky Square Enix ARG [Update!]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/08/murdered-teased-by-spooky-square-enix-arg/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/08/murdered-teased-by-spooky-square-enix-arg/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/08/murdered-teased-by-spooky-square-enix-arg/#comments Square Enix initiates potential ARG to tease 'Murdered'This morning, Square Enix initiated a guerilla marketing campaign for something apparently new and murder oriented, slated for release on Xbox 360, PS3 and PC, with potential ties to Eidos Interactive and confirmed connections to us being super creeped out by the whole thing.

It started with the Twitter account @Murdered tweeting the message "What is ..." followed by a link to the above picture, which appeared to be a section of a photograph of a tree with something carved into its bark. Attempting to navigate to one of the picture's "files" parent folder results in being automatically redirected to an eidosinteractive.com subdomain. Ah ha!

Minutes later, we received an email from a Square Enix e-mail address (masquerading as an "@murdered.com" address) with the subject header "What is the hardest case to solve?" Contained inside was a second image, which combined perfectly with the image that had been tweeted earlier.

Naturally we decided to check out murdered.com, and were met by an image of the symbol scrawled on asphalt in chalk, accompanied by a link to the official twitter account and icons revealing the project's related platforms. A whois search revealed that the domain is registered to Naoto Sugiyama, a senior manager at Square Enix., and a glance at the site's source code revealed certain assets as being hosted on Eidos webspace.

Furthermore, Square Enix registered a Japanese trademark for "Murdered: Soul Suspect" back in December of last year, Siliconera reports. We've contacted both Square Enix and the murdered.com address and will update with any new discoveries we're able to make.

Update: Well, that was fun while it lasted. Square Enix has confirmed to us that Murdered: Soul Suspect is "an exciting new game from Square Enix which challenges players to solve possibly the hardest case of all," which obviously wasn't this case, since all we had to do was send an email and ask. Eidos' potential involvement, however, does remain a mystery.

Joystiq'Murdered' teased by spooky Square Enix ARG [Update!] originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Feb 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ARGEidosEidos-Interactivemicrosoftmurderedpcplaystationps3square-enixteaserxboxFri, 08 Feb 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hitman: Sniper Challenge now on PC, bonus with Absolution pre-orders]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/01/hitman-sniper-challenge-now-on-pc-bonus-with-absolution-pre-or/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/01/hitman-sniper-challenge-now-on-pc-bonus-with-absolution-pre-or/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/01/hitman-sniper-challenge-now-on-pc-bonus-with-absolution-pre-or/#comments Hitman Sniper Challenge now on PC, 'free' with preorder whatPC players who can't wait for a taste of Hitman: Absolution are finally being catered to - the standalone promotional game, "Sniper Challenge," is now available for folks who pre-order Absolution on PC.

The game is free (insofar as making a pre-order is "free") from certain retailers across the globe. You'll find the full list here, but be sure to check with your retailer of choice before you place an order. Once ordered, you'll receive a code that can must be redeemed on the Sniper Challenge website.

JoystiqHitman: Sniper Challenge now on PC, bonus with Absolution pre-orders originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Aug 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eidoseidos-interactivehitman-5hitman-absolutionio-interactivepcpre-ordersquare-enixWed, 01 Aug 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Overheard@Comic-con: A nerd walks into a video game store...]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/13/overheard-comic-con-a-nerd-walks-into-a-video-game-store/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/13/overheard-comic-con-a-nerd-walks-into-a-video-game-store/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/13/overheard-comic-con-a-nerd-walks-into-a-video-game-store/#comments OverheardComiccon A nerd walks into a video game storeAs the man behind titles such as System Shock, Thief and Deus Ex, it's no surprise Warren Spector has a slightly warped sense of humor. For example, when naming Deus Ex, Spector thought it would be funny to pick a title that some people would be hesitant to pronounce, and he still thinks it's funny, even though that name ultimately cost Eidos sales. Spector knows exactly why:

"People don't want to go into their game store and ask for the 'Do Sex' game," Spector said, still chuckling.

JoystiqOverheard@Comic-con: A nerd walks into a video game store... originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Jul 2012 18:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Deus-Exdeus-ex-human-revolutionEidosEidos-Interactivepcwarren-spectorFri, 13 Jul 2012 18:55:00 EST<![CDATA[The 'Final Hours' of Tomb Raider documented in March, first episode out now]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/10/the-final-hours-of-tomb-raider-will-apparently-last-for-eight/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/10/the-final-hours-of-tomb-raider-will-apparently-last-for-eight/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/10/the-final-hours-of-tomb-raider-will-apparently-last-for-eight/#comments
Geoff Keighley's behind-the-scenes "Final Hours" series is taking on Tomb Raider, and he's getting video help from Zachary Levi. Square Enix enlisted Keighley for a "Final Hours" Tomb Raider entry - which Keighley says he's "especially excited" about, due to it being "a tale about the act of reinvention, both of a studio and of a franchise." But Square also nabbed Levi for a video documentary supplement, which kicks off today, a full eight months before the game launches. Those are some long final hours, eh?

The completed entry will launch in March 2013 alongside the game, and will once again be available on iPad and PC. Kindle Fire owners can also snag it via Amazon. Check out the first Zachary Levi video entry above.

Continue reading The 'Final Hours' of Tomb Raider documented in March, first episode out now

JoystiqThe 'Final Hours' of Tomb Raider documented in March, first episode out now originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Jul 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eidoseidos-interactivefinal-hoursgeoff-keighleyiosipadmicrosoftmobilepcplaystationps3square-enixthe-final-hoursthe-final-hours-of-tomb-raidertomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxzachary-leviTue, 10 Jul 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hitman: Absolution's Agent 47 reminds us of his O.G. status]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/02/hitman-absolutions-agent-47-reminds-us-of-his-o-g-status/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/02/hitman-absolutions-agent-47-reminds-us-of-his-o-g-status/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/02/hitman-absolutions-agent-47-reminds-us-of-his-o-g-status/#comments
The Hitman folks probably should've stuck the word "assassin" somewhere in their game title - that way they could avoid embarrassing marketing moments. Take, for instance, the trailer above's insistence that Agent 47 is the "original" assassin. Doesn't his blood-soaked legacy speak for itself?

Continue reading Hitman: Absolution's Agent 47 reminds us of his O.G. status

JoystiqHitman: Absolution's Agent 47 reminds us of his O.G. status originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 May 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>agent-47eidoseidos-interactivegameplayhitman-5hitman-absolutionio-interactivemicrosoftpcplaystationps3square-enixxboxWed, 02 May 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Ubisoft, Atari, many other publishers requesting payment from German pirates]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/16/report-ubisoft-atari-many-other-publishers-seeking-payment-fr/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/16/report-ubisoft-atari-many-other-publishers-seeking-payment-fr/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/16/report-ubisoft-atari-many-other-publishers-seeking-payment-fr/#comments Someone in Germany -- perhaps even some people -- illegally pirated a copy of Prison Break: The Conspiracy. Hard to believe as it may be, it appears to be the case according to TorrentFreak, who delved into German public records looking for game publishers who have employed German law to track down (and demand money from) people who allegedly pirated various games. In Germany, Koch Media publishes the Prison Break game, and has been demanding settlements of "several hundred Euros" from offending IP addresses.

The records indicate that several major publishers, either directly or through subsidiaries/secondary parties, have been sending out letters to German citizens requesting varying levels of payment in return for not being sued. Where things get murky, however, is how the publishers are seeking out the accused pirates, using not always reliable "IP address-only evidence" -- easily circumvented with proxy domains and such. You know, hacker stuff.

TorrentFreak's report indicates that a variety of publishers and distributors are involved, including (but not limited to): Atari, Koch Media (representing Techland's Dead Island and Prison Break, and Eidos/Square Enix's Deus Ex: Human Revolution as well as Dungeon Siege 3 and various Final Fantasy titles), Daedalic Entertainment (representing LucasArts), Codemasters, BitComposer, Ubisoft, Kalypso Media, dtp entertainment, and Aerosoft. It is currently unclear how many settlement notices have been sent out by each company, or if any will continue doing so after these actions have been brought to light.

Witcher 2 developer CD Projekt Red was recently pursuing similar cases in Germany until it announced the end of the practice last week.

JoystiqReport: Ubisoft, Atari, many other publishers requesting payment from German pirates originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 16 Jan 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aerosoftataribabypiratesbitcomposercodemastersdaedalicdtp-entertainmenteidoseidos-interactivegermanykalypso-mediakoch-medialegallucasartsmacmicrosoftpcpiracypiratesplaystationps3square-enixtechlandubisoftxboxMon, 16 Jan 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[ESA members asked individually about SOPA, some respond]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/sopa-list-esa/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/sopa-list-esa/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/sopa-list-esa/#comments Rock, Paper, Shotgun collaborated in obtaining responses.
The Entertainment Software Association's support of the "Stop Online Piracy Act" has led us to ask every member of the video game industry's lobbying and political group to publicly declare its stance on the bill. The ESA's continued support means every member, by proxy, is a supporter of the bill.

Some companies have pulled their logos from supporting SOPA documentation to dodge ire, while others are hiding behind rhetoric, as you'll see below. Joystiq contacted every member of the ESA and requested a declarative statement on SOPA. After the break we've listed the responses we've received, along with others we found. We continue to seek clarity on this issue from every member of the ESA.

This will become the page we update as we receive responses and clear declarative statements, so feel free to bookmark.

(Joystiq does not support SOPA, nor does our parent company.)

Continue reading ESA members asked individually about SOPA, some respond

JoystiqESA members asked individually about SOPA, some respond originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>345-games38-studios505-gamescapcomdeep-silverdisneydisney-interactiveeaeidoseidos-interactiveelectronic-artsEntertainment-software-associationepic-gamesESAfutureher-interactiveignition-entertainmentkonamilevel-5microsoftnamconatsumenexonnintendonivalnvidiao-gamesperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpoliticssegaslangsonysony-online-entertainmentSOPAsquare-enixstop-online-piracy-acttake-twotake-two-interactivethqtrionubisoftwarner-bros-interactivewbieFri, 06 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Deus Ex 'Augmented Edition' Blu-ray soundtrack issue solution in 'final stages']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/07/deus-ex-augmented-edition-blu-ray-soundtrack-issue-solution-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/07/deus-ex-augmented-edition-blu-ray-soundtrack-issue-solution-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/07/deus-ex-augmented-edition-blu-ray-soundtrack-issue-solution-in/#comments Purchasers of Deus Ex: Human Revolution's "Augmented Edition" on PS3 were supposed to receive a DVD with the game's soundtrack on it. One slight problem: the disc that says "DVD" on it is actually a Blu-ray disc, meaning that consumers who want to transfer the soundtrack to their computer's media library need a Blu-ray drive on their computers, which isn't exactly a standard feature.

We contacted Square Enix, which has been aware of the situation since the game's launch, about the current status of a fix. The company told us at the end of August that it was working on a solution. Today it tells us that it's in the "final stages" of figuring something out.

If there were only a simple, technological way to take music, already awkwardly confined to physical discs, and make it easily available on the internet. It's a conundrum that we're glad to hear Square is taking weeks to figure out.

JoystiqDeus Ex 'Augmented Edition' Blu-ray soundtrack issue solution in 'final stages' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Sep 2011 12:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deus-ex-human-revolutionEidos-Interactiveplaystationps3Square-EnixWed, 07 Sep 2011 12:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Visual Works explains how Tomb Raider's big E3 trailer came to be]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/14/visual-works-explains-how-tomb-raiders-big-e3-trailer-came-to-b/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/14/visual-works-explains-how-tomb-raiders-big-e3-trailer-came-to-b/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/14/visual-works-explains-how-tomb-raiders-big-e3-trailer-came-to-b/#comments If you were capable of watching the E3 2011 Tomb Raider trailer without fully freaking out, well, frankly, we're worried about your health. For the rest of us, Square Enix and Eidos have released a near 15-minute-long "making of" to walk us through all the gory details of its creation.

JoystiqVisual Works explains how Tomb Raider's big E3 trailer came to be originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Jul 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cgieidoseidos-interactivemaking-ofmicrosoftpcplaystationps3square-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012trailervisual-worksxboxThu, 14 Jul 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix going after 15 John Does accused of leaking Deus Ex preview code]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/square-enix-going-after-15-john-does-accused-of-leaking-deus-ex/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/square-enix-going-after-15-john-does-accused-of-leaking-deus-ex/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/square-enix-going-after-15-john-does-accused-of-leaking-deus-ex/#comments A recent court document depicts the beginning of a legal battle between Square Enix and 15 unknown "John Does" over the publisher's upcoming action-RPG, Deus Ex: Human Revolution, which leaked through an early preview code in late May. The Steam-based early preview code can allegedly be traced back to one specific Italian outlet -- "Giochi per il Mio Computer," owned by Sprea Editori -- though it apparently isn't to blame.

"On information and belief, one or more Defendants logged into the restricted Steam account hosting the Game Preview code by entering the username and password associated with the authorized GMC reviewer on or about May 29, 2011," the document reads. It then clarifies the breach as "from an IP address that was not associated with Sprea Editori or GMC." Then who's the culprit?

It seems that even Square doesn't know just yet. Rather than aim its suit at the Italian gaming outlet, the Japanese publisher is instead directing its legal team at 15 unnamed John Does, seeking "monetary damage in excess of $5,000" for the preview's distribution, as well as investigating its breach, any "gains, profits, advantages, and unjust enrichment obtained as a result" of the breach, and any "punitive damages in an amount to be determined at trial." The document will set the stage for potential legal recourse in the future if and when any of the accused Does are identified.

We've reached out to Square for clarification, since it's unclear from the court document whether or not an investigation is ongoing with Italian officials over the alleged breach. The suit was filed in the US District Court, Seattle specifically, as a result of the leak's origins via Steam (Steam's servers are hosted in Bellevue, Washington). Deus Ex: Human Revolution is intended to officially launch on August 23.

Gallery: Square Enix Deus Ex lawsuit document

JoystiqSquare Enix going after 15 John Does accused of leaking Deus Ex preview code originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jul 2011 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deus-ex-human-revolutioneidoseidos-interactivegiochi-per-il-mio-computerlawsuitlegalpcsprea-editoristeamWed, 06 Jul 2011 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Hitman: Absolution screens sneak out of Russia]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/05/hitman-absolution-screens-sneak-out-of-russia/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/05/hitman-absolution-screens-sneak-out-of-russia/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/05/hitman-absolution-screens-sneak-out-of-russia/#comments We've spotted Agent 47, and he's over at the Eidos forums, officially outed in Hitman: Absolution by one Eidos moderator known as "Acid Burn," a la Hackers. There are only two shots, unfortunately, but we've dropped them into a gallery below for your perusal.

Continue reading Hitman: Absolution screens sneak out of Russia

JoystiqHitman: Absolution screens sneak out of Russia originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 05 Jun 2011 20:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eidoseidos-interactivehitman-5hitman-absolutionio-interactivemicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxSun, 05 Jun 2011 20:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Deus Ex: Human Revolution gets 'very special edition' in select territories]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/19/deus-ex-human-revolution-gets-very-special-edition-in-select/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/19/deus-ex-human-revolution-gets-very-special-edition-in-select/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/19/deus-ex-human-revolution-gets-very-special-edition-in-select/#comments Do you live in Europe, Australia, or New Zealand and long for a super fancy, ultra limited edition of Deus Ex: Human Revolution? Square Enix has announced plans for a "very limited Collector's Edition" to launch alongside the regular, old, boring and utterly normal edition when it arrives this summer.

The "very limited" iteration of Deus Ex comes packed with a "highly collectable" figure of protagonist Adam Jensen, the "Explosive Mission Pack" (which is also part of GameStop's pre-order incentive), a smattering of in-game weapons, 10,000 extra in-game credits, a "making of" DVD and soundtrack, and a 40-page art book. How much will all that "very limited" stuff cost you? Square's not saying just yet, though pricing and specifics on availability will be made clear "closer to launch."

Continue reading Deus Ex: Human Revolution gets 'very special edition' in select territories

JoystiqDeus Ex: Human Revolution gets 'very special edition' in select territories originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Apr 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiacollectors-editiondeus-ex-human-revolutioneidoseidos-interactiveeuropemicrosoftnew-zealandpcplaystationps3square-enixxboxTue, 19 Apr 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fake Deus Ex: Human Revolution ads are here to sell us new eyeballs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/13/fake-deus-ex-human-revolution-ads-are-here-to-sell-us-new-eyeba/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/13/fake-deus-ex-human-revolution-ads-are-here-to-sell-us-new-eyeba/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/13/fake-deus-ex-human-revolution-ads-are-here-to-sell-us-new-eyeba/#comments Sure, turbochargers are readily available for all variety of car, but what about super legs that let you bound 20 feet in the air? Or that new set of eyes with a camera built right in? Deus Ex: Human Revolution's Sarif Industries wants to bring us these medical marvels, as highlighted in a new (fake) advertisement.

If that weren't enough, prospective buyers can even get a glimpse at themselves with new biotic enhancements via Sarif Industries' new website. Head past the break to get a glimpse at both the new commercial and an image of this bedraggled writer with a super arm (which isn't that different from his totally awesome normal arm).

Continue reading Fake Deus Ex: Human Revolution ads are here to sell us new eyeballs

JoystiqFake Deus Ex: Human Revolution ads are here to sell us new eyeballs originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 Apr 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>augmented-realitydeus-ex-human-revolutioneidos-interactivemicrosoftpcplaystationps3sarif-industriessquare-enixxboxWed, 13 Apr 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light exploring iDevices tomorrow]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/15/lara-croft-and-the-guardian-of-light-exploring-idevices-tomorr/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/15/lara-croft-and-the-guardian-of-light-exploring-idevices-tomorr/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/15/lara-croft-and-the-guardian-of-light-exploring-idevices-tomorr/#comments New Zealand's iTunes App Store revealed Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light for the iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad well before the game's official announcement in North America -- a tweet from Crystal Dynamic's global brand director Karl Stewart soon after confirmed its veracity. The game will arrive tomorrow for $6.99 (iPhone) and $9.99 (iPad), and its content is said to be unchanged from the Xbox Live Arcade and PlayStation Network game released to critical fanfare earlier this year.

Two-player co-op is included, and both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth options will be at your disposal. As far as the recently released DLC for the game is concerned, however, it's not clear whether or not it'll end up on the App Store version -- we've asked Crystal Dynamics to clarify [see below].

Lara and Totec's now mobile adventure will be available to North Americans starting tomorrow morning at 12:01AM EST.

Update: A Crystal Dynamics representative confirmed that the DLC from Xbox Live Arcade and PlayStation Network iterations of the game is not included with the iOS version.

Gallery: Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light (iPhone/iPad)

JoystiqLara Croft and the Guardian of Light exploring iDevices tomorrow originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Dec 2010 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>app-storecrystal-dynamicseidoseidos-interactiveitunes-app-storelara-croftlara-croft-and-the-guardian-of-lightmobilesquare-enixWed, 15 Dec 2010 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Get to know Kane & Lynch, Dog Days' multiplayer director in these new videos]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/05/get-to-know-kane-and-lynch-dog-days-multiplayer-director-in-thes/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/05/get-to-know-kane-and-lynch-dog-days-multiplayer-director-in-thes/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/05/get-to-know-kane-and-lynch-dog-days-multiplayer-director-in-thes/#comments They say opposites attract, which would explain the effectiveness of the titular duo in IO Interactive's upcoming sequel, Kane & Lynch 2: Dog Days. Lynch is a psychopath, a well of unchecked aggression who hardly has the foresight to see the repercussions of his actions -- a dog without a leash, if you will.

His partner, Kane, on the other hand is a bit more calculating. An ex-mercenary whose interests lie in financial gain, Kane is the type of guy who doesn't fly off the handle and, for the most part, keeps it cool -- a feat considering his partner.

Also beyond the break, you'll find the latest behind-the-scenes video produced for the game. This one features Kim Krogh, director of Kane & Lynch 2's multiplayer component. (Spoiler: He really likes it.)

Continue reading Get to know Kane & Lynch, Dog Days' multiplayer director in these new videos

JoystiqGet to know Kane & Lynch, Dog Days' multiplayer director in these new videos originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Aug 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eidosEidos-Interactiveio-interactivekane-and-lynch-2kane-and-lynch-2-dog-daysmicrosoftpcplaystationps3square-enixxboxThu, 05 Aug 2010 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[God is in the new Deus Ex: Human Revolution trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/04/deus-ex-human-revolution-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/04/deus-ex-human-revolution-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/04/deus-ex-human-revolution-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Let's not spoil anything. Instead, let's just say that Square Enix's CGI work for Deus Ex: Human Revolution is really paying off. You should watch the trailer above right now. And then watch it again.

Now that you've done that, we've got some actual news: It looks like Deus Ex: Human Revolution has been confirmed for Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and PC. The game will be released in 2011, and is now available for pre-order from the usual suspects.

JoystiqGod is in the new Deus Ex: Human Revolution trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Jun 2010 12:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Deus-Ex-3Deus-Ex-Human-RevolutionEidosEidos-InteractiveFPSmicrosoftpcplaystationps3Square-EnixxboxXbox-360Fri, 04 Jun 2010 12:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Age of Conan: Rise of the Godslayer mounts up on May 11]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/23/age-of-conan-rise-of-the-godslayer-mounts-up-on-may-11/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/23/age-of-conan-rise-of-the-godslayer-mounts-up-on-may-11/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/23/age-of-conan-rise-of-the-godslayer-mounts-up-on-may-11/#comments You know who really needs to be taken down a peg? Those gods, man. Look at 'em, up there. Think they're so high and mighty. We hear Kratos is busy, but we're not too concerned about a lack of potential divine retribution-dealers -- especially since Funcom just attached an imminent May 11 release date to its upcoming Age of Conan expansion, titled Rise of the Godslayer.

The add-on, which can be purchased as a separate download or a retail bundle with the original, expands the game's landscape to include the eastern empire of Khitai, where dangerous, dark magic is all the rage. For more info on the expansion, we suggest you turn to the MMO experts at Massively, who might be able to explain just how much god-slaying goes on in the new content.

JoystiqAge of Conan: Rise of the Godslayer mounts up on May 11 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 Apr 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanAge-of-Conan-Hyborian-AdventresEidos-InteractivefuncomMicrosoftmmommorpgrelease-daterise-of-the-godslayerXbox-360Fri, 23 Apr 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Just Cause 2 plays chicken in second 'Anatomy of a Stunt' trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/23/just-cause-2-plays-chicken-in-second-anatomy-of-a-stunt-traile/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/23/just-cause-2-plays-chicken-in-second-anatomy-of-a-stunt-traile/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/23/just-cause-2-plays-chicken-in-second-anatomy-of-a-stunt-traile/#commentsIf Just Cause 2's previous trailers have taught us anything, it's that the second game in Eidos' "do crazy sh##" series will absolutely relish in the lengths to which it enables you to live out its mission statement.

As evidenced once more in the second "Anatomy of a Stunt" trailer, wherein the game's main character mounts a speeding fire engine and takes on an aircraft, the game certainly seems to be jam-packed with the kind of insanity we like from our games (ask Red Faction Guerrilla!). Just wait until the trailers introduce a shark into that equation -- and the shark's on fire! But hey, you gotta save something for March 23 when the game comes out, right?

Gallery: Just Cause 2

JoystiqJust Cause 2 plays chicken in second 'Anatomy of a Stunt' trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Feb 2010 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anatomy-of-a-stuntavalancheavalanche-studioseidoseidos-interactivejust-causejust-cause-2Microsoftred-faction-guerrillasquare-enixsquare-enix-europetrailerXbox-360Tue, 23 Feb 2010 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Funcom Games Canada enters the Age of Caron]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/09/funcom-games-canada-enters-the-age-of-caron/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/09/funcom-games-canada-enters-the-age-of-caron/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/09/funcom-games-canada-enters-the-age-of-caron/#comments What to do when you're coming off a year of huge losses but still planning to reinvigorate the company? Get yourself a new CEO! That's what Age of Conan's Funcom did, announcing that Miguel Caron would be stepping into the position at Funcom Games Canada. Caron has been working in Quebec with Lyrtech, an audio and video processing company, as well as with IT firms like BCM International and NoWire Telecom.

Given his background in reducing IT costs and raising market share in the realm of digital communications, we'd guess he's got his job cut out for him at Funcom. The company says it's aiming to expand operations in Montreal, far away from its humble roots in Norway, so we'll see if Caron can summon some Cimmerian strength and get things moving in the right direction over there.

[Via Massively]

JoystiqFuncom Games Canada enters the Age of Caron originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 09 Jan 2010 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanAge-of-Conan-Hyborian-AdventresannouncementceoEidos-Interactivefuncomfuncom-games-canadaMicrosoftmiquel-caronmmosweet-robotthe-secret-worldXbox-360Sat, 09 Jan 2010 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Age of Conan gets 'unlimited free trial,' fine print]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/14/age-of-conan-gets-unlimited-free-trial-fine-print/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/14/age-of-conan-gets-unlimited-free-trial-fine-print/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/14/age-of-conan-gets-unlimited-free-trial-fine-print/#comments
Funcom has made its barbaric MMO Age of Conan free-to-play -- well, at least in a sense. From today through January 1, those who download the game client and create an account will be able to play for free until their character reaches level 20 (basically the game's first zone).

Doesn't exactly seem "unlimited," unless ... oh, we see, you can create a new character once you reach the free trial level cap and play through the same content again -- until that character reached level 20, and so on. Funcom is hoping that folks who go in for the trial experience will be so captivated that they'll want to pony up the money to see what lies beyond level 20. (Hint: It's more of the same.)

Funcom is calling this "a special holiday offer to anyone who wishes to experience the sexy and savage world of Conan." We're calling it a cry for attention.

JoystiqAge of Conan gets 'unlimited free trial,' fine print originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Dec 2009 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanAge-of-Conan-Hyborian-AdventresEidos-InteractivefuncomMicrosoftmmoXbox-360Mon, 14 Dec 2009 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Age of Conan subscription prices slashed, free content added]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/29/age-of-conan-subscription-prices-slashed-free-content-added/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/29/age-of-conan-subscription-prices-slashed-free-content-added/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/29/age-of-conan-subscription-prices-slashed-free-content-added/#comments
Listen up folks, because Funcom is willing to do anything to get you to drive away in an Age of Conan TODAY. You want discounted subscriptions? You got 'em. You want a 20-percent discount on three month subscriptions? No problem. How about a 30-percent discount for six months? Done. You want more? How about a 45% discount on a full-year subscription. Funcom is just crazy enough to do it.

But wait, that's not all. Act now and you'll receive a free update that adds three new Halloween quests, offering you the chance to earn a demon pet and a legendary weapon known as the "Unholy Backscratcher." In addition, you'll get access to the new Veteran Points system and a new high-level dungeon. Once again, this is absolutely free to subscribers. And, take it from us, this isn't a deal that Funcom would make for just anybody, but you, you look like someone that knows what they want. So come see Funcom, friend. If they can't make you a deal, they'll start choppin' heads[TM].

[Via Big Download]

JoystiqAge of Conan subscription prices slashed, free content added originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanAge-of-Conan-Hyborian-AdventresEidos-InteractivefuncomMicrosoftmmoXbox-360Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Funcom confirms layoffs and Secret World delay, Age of Conan not affected]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/30/funcom-confirms-layoffs-and-secret-world-delay-age-of-conan-not/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/30/funcom-confirms-layoffs-and-secret-world-delay-age-of-conan-not/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/30/funcom-confirms-layoffs-and-secret-world-delay-age-of-conan-not/#comments We contacted Age of Conan developer Funcom yesterday after reports from Norwegian news site E24 claimed the company would soon be making major staff cuts. The company's director of communications, Erling Ellingsen, recently responded to our query, confirming the layoffs, and adding that Ragnar Tørnquist's mysterious MMO The Secret World would indeed be delayed "by a few months." Age of Conan and its in-development expansion, Rise of the Godslayer, will not be affected by the layoffs.

Ellingsen explained that the cuts, which would primarily take place in Funcom's Oslo, Norway offices, were made "in order to adjust to the market situation." Though the layoffs are coming fairly soon after the developer announced its new, Montreal-based studio, Ellingsen explained that "this has nothing to do with the establishment of our studio in Canada." We wish our Norwegian game-crafting allies the best of luck in getting back on their feet.

Gallery: The Secret World

tsw_screen_1-1252609093tsw_screen_2-1252609094tsw_screen_3-1252609096tsw_screen_4-1252609097

JoystiqFuncom confirms layoffs and Secret World delay, Age of Conan not affected originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 Sep 2009 11:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanAge-of-Conan-Hyborian-AdventresEidos-InteractivefuncomlayoffsMicrosoftmmonorwayoslothe-secret-worldXbox-360Wed, 30 Sep 2009 11:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Direct2Drive's anniversary sale continues with $5 RPGs and MMOs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/21/direct2drives-anniversary-sale-continues-with-5-rpgs-and-mmos/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/21/direct2drives-anniversary-sale-continues-with-5-rpgs-and-mmos/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/21/direct2drives-anniversary-sale-continues-with-5-rpgs-and-mmos/#comments Digital retailer Direct2Drive continues its seemingly endless parade of values this week with a number of MMOs and RPGs which you can acquire for a single five-dollar bill. These titles include Neverwinter Nights 2, EVE Online, Age of Conan and Assassin's Creed Director's Cut. Well, fine -- that last one isn't exactly an RPG, unless what the director cut from the original version was turn-based random encounters.

If you're not a fan of playing roles, you'll be happy to know that D2D has kept a number of the previous weeks' deals alive, adding BioShock, Civilization 4, Assault on Dark Athena and many other titles to the pile of $5 games. If you're looking to expand your PC library on the cheap, it's definitely worth checking out.

JoystiqDirect2Drive's anniversary sale continues with $5 RPGs and MMOs originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 Sep 2009 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanAge-of-Conan-Hyborian-Adventresassassins-creeddirect2driveEidos-Interactiveeve-onlineFuncomMicrosoftmmoneverwinter-nights-2pcrpgsaleXbox-360Mon, 21 Sep 2009 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Eidos investigating 'bad' Batman collector's edition DLC codes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/25/eidos-investigating-bad-batman-collectors-edition-dlc-codes/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/25/eidos-investigating-bad-batman-collectors-edition-dlc-codes/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/25/eidos-investigating-bad-batman-collectors-edition-dlc-codes/#comments PS3 owners who scooped up the formidable Batman: Arkham Asylum collector's edition are going a bit batty on the game's official forum due to seemingly botched DLC codes. The codes, included only with the CE, enable two challenge map downloads -- but, so far, have only unlocked ire.

Not to fear, as Eidos community reps are asking for the spurned downloaders' codes so that they can be "passed on and investigated." The publisher is definitely on the case, although there's no clear ETA for a fix. We suggest bookmarking the thread if you're having problems, as it seems to be a source of frequent updates. We also suggest that you don't think of doing anything crazy with that replica Batarang. They're just DLC codes, folks. It'll be OK.

JoystiqEidos investigating 'bad' Batman collector's edition DLC codes originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 25 Aug 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batmanbatman-arkham-asylumbatman-arkham-asylum-dlceidosEidos-Interactiverocksteadyrocksteady-studioswarner-brosWarner-Bros-InteractivewbieTue, 25 Aug 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rocksteady 'not involved' in the development of Hitman 5]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/16/rocksteady-not-involved-in-the-development-of-hitman-5/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/16/rocksteady-not-involved-in-the-development-of-hitman-5/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/16/rocksteady-not-involved-in-the-development-of-hitman-5/#comments
Despite the recently discovered resume indicating that Batman: Arkham Asylum developer Rocksteady Studios may be working on a game titled Hitman5 (yes, without a space), Eidos "Life President" Ian Livingstone flat out denies the possibility. Talking to Prey's World Gaming Magazine, Livingstone said, "Hitman always has been and always will be IO Interactive's baby, which it still continues to be so."

Worried about miswording in that? He followed up with, "Rocksteady are not involved with the development of Hitman 5." All that said, we do know that some version of Hitman is on the way, as Livingstone has confirmed as such in the past and Rocksteady is currently hiring a few positions to produce a "AAA titile on the next generation platforms." It appears as though the two are unrelated though, at least for now. Meanwhile, IO Interactive is currently wrapping up development of Mini Ninjas for a September release -- and then the studio can get to work on the next Hitman game in earnest, eh?

(Please?)

[Via Blue's News]

JoystiqRocksteady 'not involved' in the development of Hitman 5 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 16 Aug 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batman-arkham-asylumblues-newseidoseidos-interactivehitmanhitman-5hitman5ian-livingstoneio-interactivepreys-world-gaming-magazinerocksteadyrocksteady-studiosSun, 16 Aug 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free PlayStation Home Batcave comes on Batman: Arkham Asylum disc]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/12/free-playstation-home-batcave-comes-on-batman-arkham-asylum-dis/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/12/free-playstation-home-batcave-comes-on-batman-arkham-asylum-dis/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/12/free-playstation-home-batcave-comes-on-batman-arkham-asylum-dis/#comments After pounding macho men to a pulp in the recent Batman: Arkham Asylum demo, we're definitely excited for additional bat-goodies. That's why we're happy to pass along some info from the PlayStation Blog, which says Home users will get the sweet Batcave space you see above. It's called the "Batman Arkham Asylum Batcave Outpost Apartment" and comes chock full of stuff, including a "Batsuit, Batmobile, and Batwing, along with various Bat-gadgets."

The space will be unlocked for gamers when they pop in the disc and allow them to walk about Bruce Wayne's (spoiler!) underground lair. Sounds all well and good, but where's the virtual Alfred to boss around?

JoystiqFree PlayStation Home Batcave comes on Batman: Arkham Asylum disc originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Aug 2009 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batcavebatmanbatman-arkham-asylumeidosEidos-Interactivehomeplaystation-homerocksteady-studiosrumorWarner-Bros-InteractiveWed, 12 Aug 2009 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[BAM! Batman: Arkham Asylum demo punching faces online]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/07/bam-batman-arkham-asylum-demo-punching-faces-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/07/bam-batman-arkham-asylum-demo-punching-faces-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/07/bam-batman-arkham-asylum-demo-punching-faces-online/#comments Hello, loyal readers. We should have mentioned this a few hours ago but a demo for Batman: Arkham Asylum is now available for Xbox Live Gold users. Why are we late on the tip? Well, we've been busy playing the demo ... and time flew by. Translation: The demo is good. Yeah, that's right. Soak it in for a moment, a superhero game that doesn't immediately make you want to punch yourself in the face. Feels nice, doesn't it?

Of course, the demo's vertical slice could be a mischievous ruse, and only when we play the full version will we realize that half the game is played by a boyish Robin ... or worse, The Arbiter (we're kidding, you're always The Bats). Will the final game live up? According to our other experiences in Arkham, Rocksteady has actually done Batman some justice. It's about time.

Do the Bat-Dance, Queue up the Batman: Arkham Asylum demo

JoystiqBAM! Batman: Arkham Asylum demo punching faces online originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 07 Aug 2009 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkham-asylumbatmanbatman-arkham-asylumdemoeidosEidos-InteractiverocksteadyRocksteady-Studioswarner-broswarner-bros-interactivexbox-live-marketplaceFri, 07 Aug 2009 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Funcom: Anarchy Online 2 not in the cards (yet)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/09/funcom-anarchy-online-2-not-in-the-cards-yet/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/09/funcom-anarchy-online-2-not-in-the-cards-yet/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/09/funcom-anarchy-online-2-not-in-the-cards-yet/#comments Funcom isn't planning on a sequel to Anarchy Online just yet. Speaking with VideoGamer, Game Director Craig Morrison believes a sequel would be "problematic." He notes that AO has been running for eight years and is still making money. We can't blame Funcom for not wanting to mess with a game that's making money.

Morrison explains that Age of Conan and The Secret World are currently the company's two main projects. For now, it looks like Anarchy won't be getting a sequel for ... well, considering MMO development cycles, a good long while.

JoystiqFuncom: Anarchy Online 2 not in the cards (yet) originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Jul 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanAge-of-Conan-Hyborian-Adventresanarchy-onlineEidos-InteractivefuncomMicrosoftthe-secret-worldXbox-360Thu, 09 Jul 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Give Age of Conan a second chance, get two weeks free]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/09/give-age-of-conan-a-second-chance-get-two-weeks-free/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/09/give-age-of-conan-a-second-chance-get-two-weeks-free/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/09/give-age-of-conan-a-second-chance-get-two-weeks-free/#comments Have you turned your back on Hyboria, nay, the entire Age of Conan? The MMO may be populated with barbarians, but its developer, Funcom, is really being quite nice to turncoats by offering two free weeks of gameplay if you return. No questions axed.

This re-evaluation campaign comes in advance of August's planned game expansion, which itself is set to be unveiled at Germany's GamesCom, which runs August 19 through 23. The wise barbarian will pocket those 14 days of free play until then.

JoystiqGive Age of Conan a second chance, get two weeks free originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Jul 2009 07:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanAge-of-Conan-Hyborian-AdventresEidos-InteractivefuncomMicrosoftXbox-360Thu, 09 Jul 2009 07:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Funcom announcing Age of Conan expansion in August]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/08/funcom-announcing-age-of-conan-expansion-in-august/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/08/funcom-announcing-age-of-conan-expansion-in-august/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/08/funcom-announcing-age-of-conan-expansion-in-august/#comments Listen, we're in no position to further heckle Funcom's muscle-bound MMO Age of Conan for its underwhelming install base. We think it's great that the game has survived this long, and we're certain the game's three players will -- no! No heckling! The game's players will be thrilled to hear Funcom's got a big expansion planned for the Hyborean RPG.

The developer is planning on unveiling the expansion during GamesCom, a gaming convention (comvention?) that will be held in Cologne, Germany from August 19 - 23. Details about the add-on are non-existant -- hopefully it won't include any mammarical modifications, which have already been proven to be decidedly unpopular with Conan's subscribers.

JoystiqFuncom announcing Age of Conan expansion in August originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Jul 2009 02:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanAge-of-Conan-Hyborian-AdventresEidos-InteractiveexpansionfuncomMicrosoftmmommorpgXbox-360Wed, 08 Jul 2009 02:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Age of Conan survives one year, gains unspecified growth]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/18/age-of-conan-survives-one-year-gains-unspecified-growth/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/18/age-of-conan-survives-one-year-gains-unspecified-growth/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/18/age-of-conan-survives-one-year-gains-unspecified-growth/#comments FunCom has announced that Age of Conan is officially celebrating its first anniversary this week, adding that the company has seen a "significant" increase in the number of players per month. The company also noted that activity levels in the game have increased "significantly." Just how significant is all of this significance? That's anybody's guess, as Funcom hasn't provided any hard numbers.

Considering that the Age of Conan log recounts a litany of woe and despair, we suppose any player increases would be good news which, in and of itself, would be significant for the beleaguered MMO. In celebration of the first anniversary of the game, players will be treated to in-game fireworks and the chance to win prizes. Also, Funcom will soon be adding the ability to buy additional character slots and, as a bonus anniversary gift, will provide veteran players that have subscribed to the MMO for at least six months with a new character slot for free. Everyone else gets to keep playing World of Warcraft.

JoystiqAge of Conan survives one year, gains unspecified growth originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 May 2009 22:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanAge-of-Conan-Hyborian-AdventreseidosEidos-InteractivefuncomMicrosoftmmoXbox-360Mon, 18 May 2009 22:08:00 EST<![CDATA[Eidos revenues up 26%, Lara says 'You're welcome']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/27/eidos-revenues-up-26-lara-says-youre-welcome/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/27/eidos-revenues-up-26-lara-says-youre-welcome/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/27/eidos-revenues-up-26-lara-says-youre-welcome/#comments
GI.biz reports that Eidos has posted financial results for the six-month period ending December 2008, and things are looking up for the publisher. Revenues for the period were up a full 26% at £80.3 million, up from £63.4 million during the same period in 2007. The cut to the publisher's losses was even more dramatic, down to just £1 million compared to £81.4 million in 2007. Eidos also managed to lower its debt from £5.7 million to £3.2 million.

The uptick in revenues is largely the doing of Lady Croft and her recent Underworld adventures, which sold 2.6 million copies (with 1.5 million sold through to consumers). Eidos noted that Tomb Raider: Underworld has outsold both Legend and Anniversary, though the company reiterated that sales were still lower than expected.

This has got to be good news to Square Enix, which recently crammed more Eidos stock into its portfolio and is gunning to acquire the publisher. It has to be even better news for the growing number of stockholders that support the acquisition.

JoystiqEidos revenues up 26%, Lara says 'You're welcome' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesseidoseidos-interactivetomb-raiderFri, 27 Feb 2009 18:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Age of Conan still in development for Xbox 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/22/age-of-conan-still-in-development-for-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/22/age-of-conan-still-in-development-for-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/22/age-of-conan-still-in-development-for-xbox-360/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Funcom is still developing a Xbox 360 port of Age of Conan: Hyborian Adventures, the publisher reiterated in an interview with Eurogamer. The affirmation comes after PC player subscriptions for the MMO dropped and half the servers were shut down.

Game Director Craig Morrison wouldn't go into specifics beyond the fact that the company still plans on having a version on Microsoft's console. Morrison describes the team working on the console version as small and dedicated. Heck, it's worth a try. Then again, who will test it? Didn't QA get laid off?

JoystiqAge of Conan still in development for Xbox 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 22 Jan 2009 16:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanAge-of-Conan-Hyborian-Adventresage-of-conan-hyborian-adventuresEidos-InteractivefuncomMicrosoftXbox-360Thu, 22 Jan 2009 16:36:00 EST<![CDATA[Eidos disappointed with TR: Underworld sales, stock drops]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/09/eidos-disappointed-with-tr-underworld-sales-stock-drops/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/09/eidos-disappointed-with-tr-underworld-sales-stock-drops/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/09/eidos-disappointed-with-tr-underworld-sales-stock-drops/#commentsFiled under:


Following UK publisher Eidos Interactive's announcement that sales of Tomb Raider Underworld didn't hit its internal forecast, the publisher's shares dropped 25% this morning (there's been some slight recovery since). Eidos states that Lady Croft's latest adventure, since its debut in November, sold 1.5 million copies by the end of 2008, which makes us question how high Eidos set the bar for the adventurer to spring, swing and flip off of.

Eidos' expectations come even more into question with its statement that the "difficult North American economy" caused restrictive inventory and price discounts. The assertion has a heaping hint of truthiness to it, more so following GameStop's astronomical sales during the holidays. We love Lara, but it doesn't sound like Eidos knows the limits of its own franchise in a competitive market.

Source - Eidos: 1.5m Tomb Raider Sales Miss Expectations (Edge)
Source - Eidos shares plunge 25% on bad news

JoystiqEidos disappointed with TR: Underworld sales, stock drops originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 Jan 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eidoseidos-interactivetomb-raidertomb-raider-underworldFri, 09 Jan 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mark Hamill's Joker confirmed in Batman: Arkham Asylum]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/17/mark-hamills-joker-confirmed-in-batman-arkham-asylum/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/17/mark-hamills-joker-confirmed-in-batman-arkham-asylum/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/17/mark-hamills-joker-confirmed-in-batman-arkham-asylum/#commentsFiled under:

If you're reading this blog, chances are you've spent at least a few afternoons taking in Batman: The Animated Series. If so, you probably have some fond memories of Mark Hamill's portrayal of the caped crusader's nemesis, the Joker. Rejoice, Joker fans, as Eidos and Warner Bros. Interactive have confirmed to Joystiq that Hamill will be reprising his role as the Joker in the upcoming Batman: Arkham Asylum. Also joining the voice cast will be Kevin Conroy, who has voiced Batman in just about every Batman cartoon under the sun.

Now let's just hope the rest of the game is up to snuff.

JoystiqMark Hamill's Joker confirmed in Batman: Arkham Asylum originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Dec 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batmanbatman-arkham-asylumeidosEidos-InteractivejokerRocksteady-Studioswarner-bros-interactiveWed, 17 Dec 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Funcom still has "high expectations" for 360 Age of Conan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/12/funcom-still-has-high-expectations-for-360-age-of-conan/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/12/funcom-still-has-high-expectations-for-360-age-of-conan/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/12/funcom-still-has-high-expectations-for-360-age-of-conan/#commentsFiled under:

It has been a long, long time since we heard anything about the Xbox 360 version of the Funcom MMO Age of Conan. Considering the spate of bad news about Funcom and AOC lately, we were half convinced that the project had been shelved altogether. Not so, apparently, as Funcom CEO Trond Arne Aas told gamesindustry.biz that the title was still in the works, saying, "We had high expectations when we first set out to do a console version of Age of Conan, and these remain high." He added that Funcom is working to tailor the experience to the console, saying that the 360 version should boast "most, if not all of the content and improvements that have been made to the PC version of the game."

Just when we should expect to see Age of Conan on the 360, Arne Aas did not say.

[Via Ars Technica]

JoystiqFuncom still has "high expectations" for 360 Age of Conan originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Dec 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanAge-of-Conan-Hyborian-AdventresaocEidos-InteractivefuncomFri, 12 Dec 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Meet the crazies of Batman: Arkham Asylum]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/08/video-meet-the-crazies-of-batman-arkham-asylum/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/08/video-meet-the-crazies-of-batman-arkham-asylum/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/08/video-meet-the-crazies-of-batman-arkham-asylum/#commentsFiled under:


Embedded above is a newly released trailer for Batman: Arkham Asylum and, just as one could expect from the game's title, there are quite a few crazies running amok. The Joker seems as deranged as ever, Batman looks to be stressed, there's an overly large (possibly steroid fueled), chain wielding baddie on the loose and well, everything is rather gloomy. Actually, the game doesn't look too bad.

Non-video game related pro-tip: Go buy The Dark Knight.

JoystiqVideo: Meet the crazies of Batman: Arkham Asylum originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Dec 2008 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batmanbatman-arkham-asylumdc-comicseidosEidos-Interactiverocksteady-studiosWarner-Bros-InteractivewbMon, 08 Dec 2008 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Funcom confirms Age of Conan layoffs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/24/funcom-confirms-age-of-conan-layoffs/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/24/funcom-confirms-age-of-conan-layoffs/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/24/funcom-confirms-age-of-conan-layoffs/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The bad news parade for Age of Conan doesn't look like it's going to stop until it pulls a Tabula Rasa. TenTonHammer has confirmed layoffs at developer Funcom's US branch. Although the company would only acknowledge "staffing cuts," TTH reported rumors that 70% of the staff, mostly from the customer service and quality assurance departments, were let go.

Although it's certainly no secret that Age of Conan is hurting at this point, the QA and CS departments are the two bookends of support on many MMORPGs. When there's no need for them, it speaks volumes about what happens next.

[Via Game|Life]

JoystiqFuncom confirms Age of Conan layoffs originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 24 Nov 2008 18:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanAge-of-Conan-Hyborian-Adventresage-of-conan-hyborian-adventuresEidos-InteractivefuncomlayoffsMicrosoftPCXbox-360Mon, 24 Nov 2008 18:50:00 EST<![CDATA[First Batman: Arkham Asylum trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/24/first-batman-arkham-asylum-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/24/first-batman-arkham-asylum-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/24/first-batman-arkham-asylum-trailer/#commentsFiled under:

You know, given the apparent state of Arkham Asylum, it's no wonder that Gotham City's criminals are complete wack-jobs. Honestly, considering the utter disrepair of Gotham's premiere mental health facility, is it any wonder that its patients are never properly rehabilitated? Just look at it. It looks like something out of Silent Hill. Hardly the kind of place that promotes a sense of mental well-being. Oh, and the asylum also serves as the setting for Eidos' upcoming Batman: Arkham Asylum, in which the criminally insane trap the caped crusader inside Arkham's hellish walls. Or something like that.

Gallery: Batman: Arkham Asylum

JoystiqFirst Batman: Arkham Asylum trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 24 Nov 2008 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkham-asylumbatmanbatman-arkham-asylumeidosEidos-Interactiverocksteadyrocksteady-studiosWarner-Bros-InteractiveMon, 24 Nov 2008 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Lara Croft shows off her motorcycle skills]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/24/video-lara-croft-shows-off-her-motorcycle-skills/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/24/video-lara-croft-shows-off-her-motorcycle-skills/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/24/video-lara-croft-shows-off-her-motorcycle-skills/#commentsFiled under: ,

In the latest of a fairly steady stream of trailers, we get to see the improved motorcycle sections of Tomb Raider: Underworld. While we do know that Lara is able to use her motorcycle at any point in the game this time around, it's unclear in the trailer just how much of the action is gameplay and how much is cinematic. Still, it's nice to see that the motorcycle will be used for more than on-rails chase sequences.

For instance, at one point in the trailer, Lara encounters a seemingly impassable pit (filled with spikes, naturally). Before moving on, she has to employ her acrobatic skills to solve a puzzle, thus triggering a mechanism that raises ramps into position. Sure, you might wonder what use ancient civilizations had for motorcycle ramps, but that's really beside the point, isn't it?

JoystiqVideo: Lara Croft shows off her motorcycle skills originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Oct 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicseidoseidos-interactivetomb-raidertomb-raider-underworldFri, 24 Oct 2008 17:30:00 EST