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 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Halo MMO had $90 million budget, canceled as Microsoft eyed 'casual, broader audience']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/12/halo-mmo-had-90-million-budget-canceled-as-microsoft-eyed-cas/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/12/halo-mmo-had-90-million-budget-canceled-as-microsoft-eyed-cas/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/12/halo-mmo-had-90-million-budget-canceled-as-microsoft-eyed-cas/#comments Over the past couple of years, we've seen dribbles of information here and there about the canceled Halo MMO, but a recent conversation IncGamers had with ex-Ensemble Studios employee Dusty Monk (yep, that's his real name) revealed not only the exorbitant cost of the planned development (three years of which took place before the game was canceled), but much, much more. First and foremost, the game's development was said to cost $90 million, as you likely inferred from the headline above. Second, the game was intended to be a "WoW killer," according to Monk.

"It was absolutely going to compete against WoW. You have to remember that Ensemble came from a standpoint of being really good at competing against Blizzard Entertainment," Monk said, using the Age of Empires series as an example. Unfortunately for the folks at Ensemble working on "Titan" (the codename for the Halo MMO), the launch and subsequent blistering success of the Nintendo Wii allegedly altered the direction that Microsoft wanted to take. "Microsoft, from its gaming division, was really changing directions. They were looking really hard at the Nintendo Wii and they were really excited by the numbers that the Wii was turning. This was about the time that Microsoft decided that its Xbox platform and XBLA really needed to go more in the direction of appealing to a more casual, broader audience." Given that new direction and what Monk calls a "very expensive, very long, and very protracted" development, Microsoft eventually shut down the project.

But hey, at least we got Halo Wars, right? Right?!

JoystiqHalo MMO had $90 million budget, canceled as Microsoft eyed 'casual, broader audience' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Apr 2010 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-empiresblizzardblizzard-entertainmentdusty-monkensembleensemble-studioshalohalo-mmohalo-warsmicrosoftmicrosoft-game-studiosXbox-360Mon, 12 Apr 2010 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Recently laid-off devs rant about being recently laid off]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/15/gdc-recently-laid-off-developers-rant-about-being-laid-off/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/15/gdc-recently-laid-off-developers-rant-about-being-laid-off/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/15/gdc-recently-laid-off-developers-rant-about-being-laid-off/#comments I think we can all agree that, aside from being hit by a speeding train or dropping a hot meal you've been cooking for hours, being fired from your job is like, the worst thing that can happen to you. As such, we expected the speakers on last week's GDC rant panel, titled "Fired and Fired-up: Jobless Developer's Rant," to be especially inflammatory. We were not disappointed.

Just past the jump, we've highlighted three of our favorite presentations from the panel. Some of them get awfully, explicitly blue, so if you happen to find yourself reading this video game news site while at work, you might want to think twice about going beyond the break. (You should also get back to work, you lazy so-and-so!)

Continue reading Recently laid-off devs rant about being recently laid off

JoystiqRecently laid-off devs rant about being recently laid off originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 15 Mar 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carey-chicochris-heckerdeveloperdevelopmenteaElectronic-Artsensemblefiringgdc-2010layoffsmaxismicrosoftpandemicpanelpaul-bettnerrantMon, 15 Mar 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo Wars title update incoming, new details]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/14/halo-wars-title-update-incoming-new-details/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/14/halo-wars-title-update-incoming-new-details/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/14/halo-wars-title-update-incoming-new-details/#comments
A post on the Halo Wars website has announced that a title update for the Halo RTS is on the way. The update looks to address some matchmaking bugs, fine tune game balance and implement a new feature. While the bulk of the update remains a mystery, community manager Aloysius does mention two changes.

One, the Prophet of Regret will have his land speed reduced to match the speed of the other Covenant leaders, thus balancing the Prophet rush tactic (which is a lot of fun, by the way). Another fix will allow users to enable the Honor Guard Wraith and Fireball Warthog units (available to collector's edition owners and those who pre-ordered the game, respectively) inside of multiplayer matches with other players. We're not sure why that wasn't included in the game in the first place, but it's a welcome addition.

No details are given regarding when the patch will release, but Aloysius promises more info will appear on the official Halo Wars site.

JoystiqHalo Wars title update incoming, new details originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Apr 2009 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ensembleensemble-studioshalohalo-warsrobot-entertainmentTue, 14 Apr 2009 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo Wars sells a million, Ensemble still disbanded]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/19/halo-wars-sells-a-million-ensemble-still-disbanded/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/19/halo-wars-sells-a-million-ensemble-still-disbanded/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/19/halo-wars-sells-a-million-ensemble-still-disbanded/#comments
Microsoft announced today that Ensemble's Halo Wars has sold one million units worldwide. According to the publisher, that makes the wars of the Halos the best selling real-time strategy game on any current-gen console -- 'cause, you know, it's such a "Flood"-ed field.

As for the stats: there have been 2.6 million multiplayer matches, over 118 years of time have been spent by players in matches on Xbox Live, more than 200,000 players battle each day and 80% of them achieve wins through Warthog rushes (okay, we made that last one up). If you're looking for more stats, click here. Microsoft says more content is on the way for the game from Robot Entertainment, "so stay tuned."

Gallery: Halo Wars

JoystiqHalo Wars sells a million, Ensemble still disbanded originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Mar 2009 13:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ensembleensemble-studioshalohalo-warsmicrosoftrtsXbox-360Thu, 19 Mar 2009 13:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Rippy: Ensemble Studios was a 'victim of its own success']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/10/rippy-ensemble-studios-was-a-victim-of-its-own-success/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/10/rippy-ensemble-studios-was-a-victim-of-its-own-success/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/10/rippy-ensemble-studios-was-a-victim-of-its-own-success/#comments
David Rippy, founder of Bonfire Studios and a lead producer on Halo Wars, believes Ensemble's death occurred because the studio was only known for -- and allowed to create -- RTS titles. In an interview with GI.biz, Rippy expresses that Ensemble couldn't get non-RTS project prototypes approved, stating that the group represented "the RTS guys." He notes that lack of diversity is something he'd like to avoid in the future with his new studio.

Rippy states that Bonfire's first project will not be an RTS game, but that the company may consider doing one again in the future. He states that the game will be different than what the team has done in the past, while still offering "a strong strategy element." As Bonfire works on the new project -- which will apparently not be published by Microsoft -- the other studio born out of Ensemble's remains, Robot Entertainment, will continue employing "the RTS guys."

JoystiqRippy: Ensemble Studios was a 'victim of its own success' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Mar 2009 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bonfirebonfire-studiosensembleensemble-studioshalo-warsMicrosoftrtsXbox-360Tue, 10 Mar 2009 13:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Download a digital copy of the Halo Wars tech tree]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/05/download-a-digital-copy-of-the-halo-wars-tech-tree/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/05/download-a-digital-copy-of-the-halo-wars-tech-tree/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/05/download-a-digital-copy-of-the-halo-wars-tech-tree/#commentsTo give us a better understanding of Halo Wars' units and all the upgrades available, Xbox.com posted a downloadable Halo Wars tech tree chart (PDF).

The Halo Wars tech tree (not to be confused with the plantable type) is an easy-to-use reference guide that visually explains the technology progression of both Covenant and UNSC units, as well as each of their Leaders' unique powers. The chart comes in especially handy when creating the nearly invincible Grizzly and ODST combo. It's a strategy we nicknamed the "Drop Shock and Awe."

[Via HaloWars.com]

JoystiqDownload a digital copy of the Halo Wars tech tree originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Mar 2009 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ensembleensemble-studioshalo-warsmgsmicrosoft-game-studiosrtsThu, 05 Mar 2009 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo Wars program hits Korean TV]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/05/halo-wars-program-hits-korean-tv/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/05/halo-wars-program-hits-korean-tv/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/05/halo-wars-program-hits-korean-tv/#comments
Siliconera reports that MBC Game, a Korean television station, is adding a show dedicated to Halo Wars to its lineup. That might sound strange, but the network already airs several programs dedicated to video games. The decision to add Halo Wars to the lineup was probably fairly simple, as the network's StarCraft program is its most popular, according to Siliconera. Details about the show are sparse -- the MBC Game website shows up as malicious on Google, no thanks -- but we assume from the images posted on Siliconera that people will actually play the game on the program.

Televised Brute rushes? Count us in.

JoystiqHalo Wars program hits Korean TV originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Mar 2009 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ensembleensemble-studioshalo-warskoreamicrosoft-game-studiosThu, 05 Mar 2009 17:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Joyswag: Halo Wars (Day Three)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/04/joyswaq-halo-wars-day-three/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/04/joyswaq-halo-wars-day-three/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/04/joyswaq-halo-wars-day-three/#comments
This is it, folks the third and final day of Joystiq's Halo Wars giveaway. Congratulations to Steve H, who won our Day One giveaway. With so many people checking their email to see if they've won Day Two, now is your chance to enter Day Three. Hurry up, before someone gets wise.

To enter:
  • Leave a comment on this post naming your favorite RTS unit of all time (real or imagined).
  • You must be 18 years or older and a resident of the US or Canada (excluding Quebec)
  • Limit 1 entry per person
  • This entry period ends at 2:59 pm ET on Thursday, March 5. We'll randomly select 1 winner at that time to receive one copy of Halo Wars (ARV: $59.99).
  • For a list of complete rules, click here

JoystiqJoyswag: Halo Wars (Day Three) originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Mar 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ensembleensemble-studioshalohalo-warsjoyswagWed, 04 Mar 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Halo Wars universe expands yet again]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/04/video-halo-wars-universe-expands-yet-again/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/04/video-halo-wars-universe-expands-yet-again/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/04/video-halo-wars-universe-expands-yet-again/#commentsThe third in the Halo Wars "Universe Expanded" videos is now available on Xbox Live Marketplace (for Gold members). Again we see several voices in the gaming industry waxing poetic about Halo. The latest video focuses on exactly how Halo Wars adds to the lore established in other Halo titles. On particularly interesting tidbit, Microsoft's own Frank O'Connor notes that the new elements present in Halo Wars will show up in future titles in the franchise. Who knows, maybe we'll be hijacking Locust tanks or piloting a Vulture in Halo 3: ODST.

JoystiqVideo: Halo Wars universe expands yet again originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Mar 2009 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bungieensembleensemble-studioshalohalo-warsxblmxbox-live-marketplaceWed, 04 Mar 2009 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Play Halo Wars online and (possibly) win prizes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/04/play-halo-wars-online-and-possibly-win-prizes/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/04/play-halo-wars-online-and-possibly-win-prizes/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/04/play-halo-wars-online-and-possibly-win-prizes/#commentsMicrosoft is hosting another Play & Win giveaway. This time, Halo Wars is required to participate in the "odds are slim that anyone reading this is actually going to win anything" prize-winning fun.

To enter, download this gamer picture, play Halo Wars multiplayer between March 6-8, then patiently wait for the winners to be announced. Microsoft is giving away an assortment of prizes, including a 52" television, a Halo Wars themed Xbox 360 (nice!), an assortment of MS points and even an overpriced Ultra Series 1000 Monster Cable.

JoystiqPlay Halo Wars online and (possibly) win prizes originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Mar 2009 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ensembleensemble-studioshalo-warsmgsmicrosoft-game-studiosplay-and-winxbox-liveWed, 04 Mar 2009 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: The Halo Wars universe expands even further]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/03/video-the-halo-wars-universe-expands-even-further/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/03/video-the-halo-wars-universe-expands-even-further/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/03/video-the-halo-wars-universe-expands-even-further/#commentsAs if we haven't already been smothered with gobs of Halo Wars footage lately, a second Halo Wars: Universe Expanded documentary has made its way onto the Xbox Live Marketplace. Us being the ninjas that we are, we captured the video and uploaded it to the internet for everyone's viewing pleasure.

Just like the first Universe Expanded vid, this second ViDoc talks about the scope of the Halo Wars story, explains the key players involved and Adam Sessler is seen expressing himself using grand hand gestures. It's a great watch and a superb example of how to artistically decorate a film set using honeycomb shapes.

JoystiqVideo: The Halo Wars universe expands even further originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Mar 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ensembleensemble-studioshalo-warsmgsmicrosoft-game-studiosTue, 03 Mar 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[X3F TV -- Behold: The Halo Wars Limited Edition unboxing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/03/x3f-tv-behold-the-halo-wars-limited-edition-unboxing/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/03/x3f-tv-behold-the-halo-wars-limited-edition-unboxing/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/03/x3f-tv-behold-the-halo-wars-limited-edition-unboxing/#commentsFiled under:

Joystiq Xbox presents to you the fantabulous Halo Wars Limited Edition unboxing video. Gasp as you see the iron-on patch unveiled. Scream as you eye the coveted Mythic Map Pack DLC redemption card. Shriek as you peer at naked Elite flesh in the graphic novel (no, seriously).

If none of that works for you, you could always just watch the video in thoughtful silence. You should definitely watch it, though.

[iTunes] Subscribe to X3F TV directly in iTunes.
[Zune] Subscribe to the X3F TV directly (Zune Marketplace link coming soon).
[RSS] Add the X3F TV feed to your RSS aggregator and have the show delivered automatically.
[M4V] Download the M4V directly.

JoystiqX3F TV -- Behold: The Halo Wars Limited Edition unboxing originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Mar 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ensembleensemble-studioshalohalo-warsmgsmicrosoft-game-studiosuboxingx3f-tvTue, 03 Mar 2009 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo Wars includes final farewell from Ensemble Studios]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/03/halo-wars-includes-final-farewell-from-ensemble-studios/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/03/halo-wars-includes-final-farewell-from-ensemble-studios/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/03/halo-wars-includes-final-farewell-from-ensemble-studios/#commentsWith today's (North American) release of Halo Wars, we thought we'd share Ensemble Studios' heartfelt goodbye message included in the game's end credits. The video, which shares the same sentimental weight as Bruce Shelley's final remarks, starts with a message to all of Ensemble's fans and is followed by individual notes from everyone on the development team.

We wish the best of luck to everyone who was a part of the team at Ensemble Studios and hope success follows with their new ventures.

JoystiqHalo Wars includes final farewell from Ensemble Studios originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Mar 2009 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ensembleensemble-studioshalohalo-warsMicrosoftrtsXbox-360Tue, 03 Mar 2009 13:29:00 EST<![CDATA[GameStop plans nationwide Halo Wars midnight launch events]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/27/gamestop-plans-nationwide-halo-wars-midnight-launch-events/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/27/gamestop-plans-nationwide-halo-wars-midnight-launch-events/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/27/gamestop-plans-nationwide-halo-wars-midnight-launch-events/#commentsThis coming Monday, March 2 at around 10 pm, over 2,000 GameStop stores Stateside will be hosting Halo Wars midnight launch events.

No, there won't be a DJ or any beverages being served at these gatherings. Instead, GameStop plans on wooing midnight launch goers with trivia challenges, a dress up contest, some sort of Warthog races and (because it's Halo'verse related) a Halo 3 tournament. Some attendees can even win (get this) a Halo themed Xbox 360 skin. We only hope their employees are prepared for the influx of fanboys that will descend on their teeny-tiny establishments.

A list of stores participating in the midnight launch can be viewed here (PDF alert), but we recommend giving your local GameStop a ringle-jingle. Also, if one night of Halo Wars excitement just isn't enough to satisfy, be sure to check out their pre-launch Halo Wars tournament that takes place this weekend.

JoystiqGameStop plans nationwide Halo Wars midnight launch events originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Feb 2009 01:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ensembleensemble-studiosgamestophalo-warsmgsmicrosoft-game-studiosrtsFri, 27 Feb 2009 01:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: The expanded Halo universe of Halo Wars]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/26/video-the-expanded-halo-universe-of-halo-wars/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/26/video-the-expanded-halo-universe-of-halo-wars/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/26/video-the-expanded-halo-universe-of-halo-wars/#commentsWith the release of Halo Wars less than a week away, Microsoft has released a new video examining the expanded Halo universe present in the game. Believe it or not, Halo actually has a very detailed background. Over the years, it's been laid out in books, graphic novels, comic books and even ARGs. Still, for a great deal of Halo fans, Halo Wars will be the first time players get to experience the history behind the first three games.

Check out the video and learn your Halo history, because it's much more fun than learning about real history.

JoystiqVideo: The expanded Halo universe of Halo Wars originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Feb 2009 15:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bungiebungie-studiosensembleensemble-studioshalohalo-warsmgsmicrosoft-game-studiosThu, 26 Feb 2009 15:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Even more of your Halo Wars questions answered]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/23/even-more-of-your-halo-wars-questions-answered/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/23/even-more-of-your-halo-wars-questions-answered/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/23/even-more-of-your-halo-wars-questions-answered/#commentsTechnightly posted an extensive Halo Wars Q&A that aims to answer some common and rather peculiar game-related inquiries. The list of 74 questions covers topics from UNSC and Covenant unit details, to the explanation of Flood's involvement in multiplayer. If there's a random Halo Wars question in need of answering, reading through this informative Q&A would be a good place to start. Then again, one could wait a week for the game's retail release to become an all-knowing Halo Wars expert.

[Thanks, Mills]

JoystiqEven more of your Halo Wars questions answered originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Feb 2009 15:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ensembleensemble-studioshalo-warsmgsmicrosoft-games-studiosMon, 23 Feb 2009 15:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq Review: Halo Wars]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/20/joystiq-review-halo-wars/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/20/joystiq-review-halo-wars/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/20/joystiq-review-halo-wars/#commentsFiled under:


click to enlarge
Halo Wars is a loaded game. For one, it's the first Halo title developed outside of Bungie, and you can bet Microsoft doesn't want anyone killing its golden goose. Furthermore, the developers have touted the control scheme since the game was first announced, allowing myself and others to hope that it might, just might, do for console RTS games what Halo did for console FPS games. And then, of course, it's the last game from Ensemble Studios ... ever. That's a lot to live up to.

Gallery: Halo Wars (2/20/2009)

Continue reading Joystiq Review: Halo Wars

JoystiqJoystiq Review: Halo Wars originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Feb 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bungiebungie-studiosensembleensemble-studioshalohalo-warsmgsMicrosoftmicrosoft-game-studiosXbox-360Fri, 20 Feb 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ensemble gives strategic advice in Halo Wars ViDoc 4]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/19/ensemble-gives-strategic-advice-in-halo-wars-vidoc-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/19/ensemble-gives-strategic-advice-in-halo-wars-vidoc-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/19/ensemble-gives-strategic-advice-in-halo-wars-vidoc-4/#commentsThe fourth and final Halo Wars video documentary (the cool kids call 'em ViDocs) just made its way online. This time, Ensemble Studios talks about the design process, how much enjoyment can be had with the various multiplayer modes and a few Ensemble members even detail their personal Halo Wars strategy. Pottinger's plan that involves two Scarabs firing blue death like an uncontrollable fire hose is pure strategic genius.

JoystiqEnsemble gives strategic advice in Halo Wars ViDoc 4 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Feb 2009 18:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ensembleensemble-studioshalo-warsmgsmicrosoft-game-studiosrtsvidocThu, 19 Feb 2009 18:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Ensemble talks controls in Halo Wars ViDoc 3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/13/ensemble-talks-controls-in-halo-wars-vidoc-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/13/ensemble-talks-controls-in-halo-wars-vidoc-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/13/ensemble-talks-controls-in-halo-wars-vidoc-3/#commentsThe third in the Halo Wars video documentary series has been released. The third ViDoc centers around the game's control scheme, which was crafted from the ground up for the Xbox 360. The boys (formerly) from Ensemble Studios discuss how the control scheme came about and explain some of its nuances, such as the circle menu. Sure, you could watch the video to learn about the history of Halo Wars, or you could just watch it to see tiny men slaughter each other. We won't judge.

[Thanks, Sgt Barone]

JoystiqEnsemble talks controls in Halo Wars ViDoc 3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Feb 2009 18:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ensembleensemble-studioshalo-warsmgsmicrosoft-game-studiosFri, 13 Feb 2009 18:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Brick by brick preview of Halo Wars Mega Bloks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/11/brick-by-brick-preview-of-halo-wars-mega-bloks/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/11/brick-by-brick-preview-of-halo-wars-mega-bloks/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/11/brick-by-brick-preview-of-halo-wars-mega-bloks/#commentsAction-Figure.com just posted a few pre-release photos of this Summer's upcoming Halo Wars Mega Bloks and, yes, they're mildly cute. You know, in a blocky, mini-fig kind of way.

Per the preview photos, we can confirm that most of the iconic Halo characters (and vehicles) will be Mega Blok'ed. Spartans, Elites, Grunts, Warthogs, Ghosts, Hornets, Scorpions and even Banshees are all there. Our only question: Will the building instructions be presented in a radial pie menu?

[Thanks, sambob117]

JoystiqBrick by brick preview of Halo Wars Mega Bloks originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Feb 2009 22:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-Industriesensembleensemble-studioshalohalo-warsmega-bloksMicrosoft-Game-StudiosReal-Time-StrategyrtsWed, 11 Feb 2009 22:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Listen up! Halo Wars soundtrack debuts on AOL Radio]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/09/listen-up-halo-wars-soundtrack-debuts-on-aol-radio/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/09/listen-up-halo-wars-soundtrack-debuts-on-aol-radio/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/09/listen-up-halo-wars-soundtrack-debuts-on-aol-radio/#commentsEven though Monday has all but expired, there's still time to catch a preview of the upcoming Halo Wars soundtrack. All day today, AOL's Video Game Scores channel is exclusively debuting Spartan-inspired songs from the album. The tracks will air every hour, on the hour throughout the evening.

The Halo Wars soundtrack will be releasing to stores February 17th, which means it'll be available just in time to melodically accompany your Halo Wars gaming this March and your Mega Blok construction this Summer.

JoystiqListen up! Halo Wars soundtrack debuts on AOL Radio originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Feb 2009 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ensembleensemble-studioshalo-warshalo-wars-soundtrackmgssoundtracksumthing-elseMon, 09 Feb 2009 17:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo Wars trailer advises us to 'command the forces']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/05/halo-wars-trailer-advises-us-to-command-the-forces/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/05/halo-wars-trailer-advises-us-to-command-the-forces/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/05/halo-wars-trailer-advises-us-to-command-the-forces/#commentsMuch like your backseat gamer girlfriend during intense Halo 3 sessions, Halo Wars finally lets you shunt Spartans around, telling them to shoot over here and hide over there. You can experience the real-time stategery for yourself in today's Halo Wars demo, or check out the latest trailer embedded above. "Command the forces" strikes us as particularly helpful advice.

If you'd like even more, you can access the official Halo Wars manual at Xbox.com (PDF) -- it's not like you'll read the copy included with the game next month.

JoystiqHalo Wars trailer advises us to 'command the forces' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Feb 2009 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ensembleensemble-studioshalo-warsrtsThu, 05 Feb 2009 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo Wars demo now accepting recruits via the XBLM]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/05/halo-wars-demo-now-accepting-recruits-via-the-xblm/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/05/halo-wars-demo-now-accepting-recruits-via-the-xblm/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/05/halo-wars-demo-now-accepting-recruits-via-the-xblm/#commentsFor the past hour, we've been pacing back and forth, waiting for the content to become available. We're sure you've been doing that same anxious pacing. But the wait is over and, from high atop our blogger soapbox (which makes us feel Elite-sized in height), we're pleased to announce that a Halo Wars demo is now available for download off the Xbox Live Marketplace. Cue thunderous applause and Grunt birthday party-like cheers!

The free 1.4GB Halo Wars demo download will give curious (Gold subscriber) gamers a chance to test Ensemble Studios' innovative console RTS controls through a portion of the game -- including a smattering of lovely cutscenes. Enough talk, get to downloading already.

JoystiqHalo Wars demo now accepting recruits via the XBLM originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Feb 2009 06:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ensembleensemble-studioshalo-warsrtsx3f-twitterxblmThu, 05 Feb 2009 06:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Toys 'R' Us, GameStop get Halo Wars figs this month]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/03/toys-r-us-gamestop-get-halo-wars-figs-this-month/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/03/toys-r-us-gamestop-get-halo-wars-figs-this-month/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/03/toys-r-us-gamestop-get-halo-wars-figs-this-month/#comments
McFarlane Toys has announced that Toys 'R' Us, GameStop and an unnamed third retailer will be exclusively selling the company's new line of Halo Wars figures early. The three retailers will begin selling three different 3-packs of the figurines sometime this month, while other retailers will begin selling the toys after the Halo Wars launch in March. Each of the three "First Look" retailers will have an exclusive 3-pack on offer, each containing three 2&frac12; inch UNSC or Covenant figures. McFarlane announced late last year that each pack will priced from $9.99 to $11.99. Find out where each pack will be available in the list below.

  • TBA -- UNSC TROOPS (Blue)
    1 Spartan (with assault rifle)
    1 Marine Infantry (with assault rifle)
    1 Spartan (with dual magnums)
  • Toys "R" Us -- UNSC TROOPS (Red)
    1 Spartan (with dual magnums)
    1 Spartan (with assault rifle)
    1 Marine Infantry (with assault rifle)

  • GameStop -- COVENANT TROOPS (Purple)
    2 Elites (with Plasma rifles)
    1 Grunt (with Needler)

JoystiqToys 'R' Us, GameStop get Halo Wars figs this month originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Feb 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bungiebungie-studiosensembleensemble-studioshalo-warsmcfarlanemcfarlane-toystoysTue, 03 Feb 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Build your own war with licensed Halo Wars Mega Bloks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/03/build-your-own-war-with-licensed-halo-wars-mega-bloks/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/03/build-your-own-war-with-licensed-halo-wars-mega-bloks/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/03/build-your-own-war-with-licensed-halo-wars-mega-bloks/#commentsHere's an interesting business partnership to consider. MEGA Brands and Microsoft Game Studios have entered into an agreement to manufacture officially licensed Halo Wars Mega Bloks construction toys. You read correctly: Halo Wars construction toys that are said to include "iconic characters and vehicles of the video game." You know, things like Warthogs, Spartans and (dare we get too excited) Grunts. Our only worry about the Halo edition of Mega Bloks is that they'll look too much like Mega's current "kid friendly" offerings. If they're a bit more manly, we have no qualms about buying ourselves a Halo construction toy.

Halo Wars Mega Bloks construction sets are coming to a retailer near you, Summer 2009.

JoystiqBuild your own war with licensed Halo Wars Mega Bloks originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Feb 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>construction-toysensembleensemble-studioshalo-warsmega-bloksmgsTue, 03 Feb 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA['Best of Halo' Xbox 360 console: Now with more box art]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/02/best-of-halo-xbox-360-console-now-with-more-box-art/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/02/best-of-halo-xbox-360-console-now-with-more-box-art/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/02/best-of-halo-xbox-360-console-now-with-more-box-art/#comments We can't think of a better way to start the work week than with a few high-res photos of the European exclusive Best of Halo Xbox 360 bundle. Believe us, we tried. Galleried below are the three console box shots, which include full frontal, corner angled and the textual backside. Just try not to drool on your keyboard.

Joystiq'Best of Halo' Xbox 360 console: Now with more box art originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Feb 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bungiebungie-studiosensembleensemble-studioseuropehalo-3halo-warsmicrosoftx3f-twitterxbox-360Mon, 02 Feb 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ensemble co-founder says goodbye as studio closes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/29/ensemble-co-founder-says-goodbye-as-studio-closes/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/29/ensemble-co-founder-says-goodbye-as-studio-closes/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/29/ensemble-co-founder-says-goodbye-as-studio-closes/#comments Today Ensemble Studios co-founder Bruce Shelley wrote his final blog for the company, which is set to shut its doors forever now that work on Halo Wars is complete. Shelley said that "about 60%" of the staff that worked on the first Age of Empires title stayed with the company for its entire lifespan, making for some mixed emotions during the studio's final week. "Boxes are piled in the hallways for trash; people are giving away games and other stuff they don't want anymore; computers are being wiped; and our corporate IDs are being turned in," he said, adding, "Although we will be keeping in touch through some alumni initiatives, many of us may not cross paths again." He then went on to thank everyone that supported the studio throughout the years.

According to Shelley, "at least two new studios" will be formed by former Ensemble Studios employees, one of which will handle Ensemble Studios Online and post-launch support for Halo Wars. We wish all Ensemble Studios staff members the best of luck in their new endeavors.

[Via Big Download]

JoystiqEnsemble co-founder says goodbye as studio closes originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Jan 2009 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-empiresBruce-Shelleybusinessensembleensemble-studioshalo-warsMicrosoftXbox-360Thu, 29 Jan 2009 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Lucky Europe receives 'Best of Halo' Xbox 360 bundle]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/29/lucky-europe-receives-best-of-halo-xbox-360-bundle/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/29/lucky-europe-receives-best-of-halo-xbox-360-bundle/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/29/lucky-europe-receives-best-of-halo-xbox-360-bundle/#commentsBecause Halo Wars is in dire need of more promotion and marketing (not really), Microsoft will be releasing a special edition Xbox 360 console dubbed the "Best of Halo edition". Swedish retailer Webhallen has the listing, mentioning the bundle will ship February 27th and will include all the standard 360 Pro amenities (60GB HDD, wireless controller, headset, cables, etc.) with the addition of both Halo 3 and Halo Wars. And for 2795 kr or about $350 USD, it's actually a decent deal.

As far as we know, Europe will be the only market this Best of Halo Xbox 360 will see a release in. But that doesn't mean Stateside fanboys can't keep their fingers crossed and continue to pray to the prophets above.

[Via Teamxbox]

JoystiqLucky Europe receives 'Best of Halo' Xbox 360 bundle originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Jan 2009 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bungiebungie-studiosensembleensemble-studioshalo-3halo-warshardwareprox3f-twitterxbox-360Thu, 29 Jan 2009 09:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Ensemble already 'looking into' Halo Wars DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/28/ensemble-already-looking-in-to-halo-wars-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/28/ensemble-already-looking-in-to-halo-wars-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/28/ensemble-already-looking-in-to-halo-wars-dlc/#commentsFiled under: ,


Even though Halo Wars has already gone gold, Ensemble Studios isn't sitting back twiddling its thumbs and drinking celebratory martinis. In fact, the developer is busy plotting post-launch plans and even kicking around the idea of Halo Wars DLC.

"We are committed to supporting the franchise," studio producer Jason Pace told Electricpig in a recent interview. Pace admitted that while the studio doesn't have definite plans, "additional downloadable content is something we're looking into." We just hope that Ensemble's studio closure doesn't factor into the DLC decision. And if we end up receiving additional Halo Wars content, our only requirements are that it be cheap, expansive, cheap, story driven and well ... cheap. Get our drift?

JoystiqEnsemble already 'looking into' Halo Wars DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Jan 2009 03:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcensembleensemble-studioshalohalo-warsmicrosoftrtsstrategyXbox-360Wed, 28 Jan 2009 03:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Game developers sound off on industry layoffs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/12/game-developers-sound-off-on-industry-layoffs/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/12/game-developers-sound-off-on-industry-layoffs/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/12/game-developers-sound-off-on-industry-layoffs/#commentsFiled under:


It's all too easy to forget that there are real people behind the power-ups we're so fond of collecting. Gamasutra has posted a sobering look at the industry, interviewing recently out-of-work employees from such companies as Eidos and Pandemic while putting faces on the disturbing number of layoffs that have impacted the business behind the games we play.

"In our industry, there's a relatively high chance that once your game is finished, the studio will make some cuts," noted David Lewis, a software test engineer at Ensemble, which will close its doors after Halo Wars (pictured) rolls out the door later this year. "But I had no reason to suspect that the whole studio would be closed." Even so, some, like recruiter T.J. Summers, believe that there is work to be had for those willing to stretch beyond their comfort zones and look for work in "new growth sectors" such as web or mobile. Still, we sympathize with those impacted, especially knowing that the drop off from developing AAA titles to Flash games has to be enough to lose your stomach.

JoystiqGame developers sound off on industry layoffs originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Jan 2009 13:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eidosensembleensemble-studiosensemblestudioshalo-warshalowarslayoffspandemicpandemic-studiospandemicstudiosMon, 12 Jan 2009 13:06:00 EST<![CDATA[New off-screen Halo Wars footage]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/09/new-off-screen-halo-wars-footage/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/09/new-off-screen-halo-wars-footage/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/09/new-off-screen-halo-wars-footage/#commentsFiled under: ,

GameTrailers has posted some new footage of Halo Wars from CES. Unfortunately, it's off-screen footage, and portions of the screen are cut off. Still, There's plenty of interesting things to see if you know where to look. For one, you can see the system that lets you cycle through each individual unit type when you've selected a large group of different units -- the player uses it at around 0:35 to select the Warthog and ram the enemy. Another prominent feature is the circle menu, which is used to queue up new units and research upgrades. And, of course, you get to see delicious carnage. Check out the video after the break.

Continue reading New off-screen Halo Wars footage

JoystiqNew off-screen Halo Wars footage originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 Jan 2009 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-Industriesces-2009ensembleensemble-studioshalohalo-warsmgsmicrosoft-game-studiosReal-Time-StrategyRTSx3f-twitterFri, 09 Jan 2009 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ensemble's gift to you: Halo Wars units and structures revealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/23/ensembles-gift-to-you-halo-wars-units-and-structures-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/23/ensembles-gift-to-you-halo-wars-units-and-structures-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/23/ensembles-gift-to-you-halo-wars-units-and-structures-revealed/#commentsFiled under: ,

Late last week, the crew at Ensemble left us a present and we didn't even notice it. The company unlocked every unit and structure in both the UNSC and Covenant field manuals for Halo Wars. If you're hankerin' for some Halo Wars, you might want to browse through each field manual. After all, the game is only a few months away, so you might as well start planning your strategies now.

One strange note, we're not seeing any Brute units for the Covenant. We know they're in there somewhere though. Upgrades from Elites perhaps?

Source - UNSC Field Manual
Source - Covenant Field Manual

JoystiqEnsemble's gift to you: Halo Wars units and structures revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Dec 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-Industriesbungieensembleensemble-studioshalohalo-warsMicrosoft-Game-StudiosReal-Time-StrategyRTSTue, 23 Dec 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Forget February, Halo Wars set for U.S. release on March 3rd]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/08/forget-february-halo-wars-set-for-u-s-release-on-march-3rd/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/08/forget-february-halo-wars-set-for-u-s-release-on-march-3rd/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/08/forget-february-halo-wars-set-for-u-s-release-on-march-3rd/#commentsFiled under: ,


Admittedly, Microsoft may have promised those of us in North America that we'd be getting Halo Wars sometime in February. But now, with the worsening economy, lower fuel costs and location of Mars in relation to Jupiter, the game will actually release to retail in the U.S. and Canada the first week March. Europe and everyone else on the globe are still set for a February Halo Wars release. Lucky monkeys.

Officially, Halo Wars will release to "the Americas" on March 3rd, to EMEA territories on February 27th, and to Japan and Asia on February 26th. Europe and Japan, you win this round.

JoystiqForget February, Halo Wars set for U.S. release on March 3rd originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Dec 2008 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ensembleensemble-studioshalo-warsMon, 08 Dec 2008 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo MMO received green light approval before managment canceled]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/17/halo-mmo-received-green-light-approval-before-managment-canceled/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/17/halo-mmo-received-green-light-approval-before-managment-canceled/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/17/halo-mmo-received-green-light-approval-before-managment-canceled/#commentsFiled under: ,

After hearing about the canceled Halo MMO back in September and taking a look at some of the game's leaked assets, Shacknews questioned Ensemble Studios' Dave Pottinger about the project and why it died away.

"We had staffed up an almost-40 person team" says Pottinger, claiming that the Halo MMO "had actually been green-lit", but that new Microsoft management axed the game's development soon after. Pottinger also explained that their approach to the Halo MMO mirrored some of the familiar concepts in games like World of Warcraft, but stayed true to the Halo art style and overall action theme. But no, Microsoft says we cannot haz Halo MMO ... not yet.

JoystiqHalo MMO received green light approval before managment canceled originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Nov 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ensembleensemble-studioshalohalo-mmohalo-warsMon, 17 Nov 2008 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq plays first three missions of Halo Wars]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/17/joystiq-plays-first-three-missions-of-halo-wars/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/17/joystiq-plays-first-three-missions-of-halo-wars/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/17/joystiq-plays-first-three-missions-of-halo-wars/#commentsFiled under: ,

Joystiq recently got the chance to play through the first three levels of Halo Wars. The game is still good, which isn't too surprising given our impressions of the game from E3. It's worth noting though, that the player in question managed to figure out the majority of the "advanced" controls before actually starting the "advanced" tutorial, which is good news for anyone doubting that an RTS can work on a console. Head over to Joystiq for full impressions and a heap of new screens to boot. Now where's that demo, hmmm?

Gallery: Halo Wars (11-17-2008)

JoystiqJoystiq plays first three missions of Halo Wars originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Nov 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-Industriesbungiebungie-studiosensembleensemble-studioshalohalo-warsmgsmicrosoft-game-studiosReal-Time-StrategyRTSMon, 17 Nov 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[McFarlane unveils final Halo Wars figure sculpts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/10/mcfarlane-unveils-final-halo-wars-figure-sculpts/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/10/mcfarlane-unveils-final-halo-wars-figure-sculpts/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/10/mcfarlane-unveils-final-halo-wars-figure-sculpts/#commentsFiled under: ,


Recently, McFarlane unveiled the final sculpts for the mini Halo Wars figures that they announced back in September and, with the unveil, announced the pricing will be between $9.99 and $11.99.

You can view all four sets of new Halo Wars mini-figures including the traditional UNSC troops along with blue and red variants as well as a set of purple Covenant. Seriously, how adorable is that purple Grunt? Each set includes three 2.5" figures with various weapons and will release to retail March 2009.

[Via HBO]

JoystiqMcFarlane unveils final Halo Wars figure sculpts originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Nov 2008 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ensembleensemble-studioshalo-warsmcfarlanetodd-mcfarlaneMon, 10 Nov 2008 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo Wars releases in Feb, LE comes with Mythic Map Pack]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/06/halo-wars-releases-in-feb-le-comes-with-mythic-map-pack/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/06/halo-wars-releases-in-feb-le-comes-with-mythic-map-pack/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/06/halo-wars-releases-in-feb-le-comes-with-mythic-map-pack/#commentsFiled under: ,


click to enlarge
Microsoft has announced that Halo Wars, the Halo-themed RTS from Ensemble Studios, will launch in February 2009. Furthermore, the company has announced that a limited edition version of the game will be released and detailed its contents. Retailing for $79.99, the limited edition of Halo Wars includes:
  • Three new Halo 3 (not Halo Wars) multiplayer maps. The maps include Assembly, Orbital, and Sandbox. You might recognize those maps as the upcoming Mythic Map Pack.
  • Halo Wars: Genesis -- A graphic novel by Phil Noto, Ensemble's own Graeme Devine and Halo novelist Eric Nylund. The novel details the first human conflict with the Covenant and "centers around the Spirit of Fire on a mission to discover why the Covenant are so interested in the world of Harvest."
  • The "Honor Guard" Wraith in-game vehicle
  • Six "Leader Cards." Trading cards, we're guessing, or something like them.
  • Spirit of Fire Patch. You know, the iron-on kind. Have fun explaining what it means to your non-gaming friends.
The press release also notes that those who pre-order at certain (unannounced) retailers will get a code to unlock a Warthog vehicle with flame decals.

While we're intrigued by the graphic novel, we have to admit the inclusion of the Mythic Map Pack is a pretty crafty move. The announcement says that those with the Halo Wars LE will be among "the first to experience the Mythic Map Pack," which implies that they can get their hands on the maps before they become available to the general public. We get the feeling that a lot of Halo players are suddenly very interested in RTS games.

JoystiqHalo Wars releases in Feb, LE comes with Mythic Map Pack originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Nov 2008 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-Industriesensembleensemble-studioshalohalo-warsmgsmicrosoft-game-studiosReal-Time-StrategyRTSThu, 06 Nov 2008 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo Wars CE to include Halo 3 Mythic map pack]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/06/halo-wars-ce-to-include-halo-3-mythic-map-pack/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/06/halo-wars-ce-to-include-halo-3-mythic-map-pack/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/06/halo-wars-ce-to-include-halo-3-mythic-map-pack/#commentsFiled under: ,


click to enlarge
It seems Halo Wars is set to become the new Crackdown, with Microsoft enticing franchise fence sitters with goodies from Halo 3. The real-time strategy game set within Bungie's sprawling, hoop-filled universe will arrive this forthcoming February in both regular form and a Limited Collector's Edition. The latter should prove tempting even to those who prefer to see their aliens on the other side of a crosshair, as it will include early access to Halo 3's Mythic multiplayer map pack.

The three maps, named "Assembly," "Orbital" and "Sandbox," join Halo Wars: Genesis, a graphic novel by Phil Noto, Graeme Devine and Eric Nylund; a "unique" in-game Wraith vehicle; six leader cards (they "possess elite skills which can turn the tides of battle," it says here) and a "Spirit of Fire" patch, which your mom can sew onto your favorite jacket. Just be sure to pay her back the $79.99 as well.

Gallery: Halo Wars (Limited Collector's Edition)

JoystiqHalo Wars CE to include Halo 3 Mythic map pack originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Nov 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BreakingNewsCEEnsembleEnsemble-StudiosHalo-3Halo-WarsHalo3JS-TwitterLimited-EditionRTSXbox-360Thu, 06 Nov 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft promises a few surprises in 2009]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/03/microsoft-promises-a-few-surprises-in-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/03/microsoft-promises-a-few-surprises-in-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/03/microsoft-promises-a-few-surprises-in-2009/#commentsFiled under: ,

After confirming plans to stick with its current Xbox 360 pricing, Microsoft UK head Stephen McGill has informed Videogamer that there's a "lot of great stuff" headed to the Xbox 360 in 2009. Secret, surprising stuff.

"I know a lot of the games coming out from us and our third parties. Most of them, in fact, have not been announced because everyone's very focused on what's out for Christmas" says McGill, admitting that "there's lots of great stuff coming in 2009 that people know about. Lots more, I'm sure that they don't know about." Hmm, lots more we don't know about huh?

True, we're all focused on the jam packed Holiday 2008 game lineup, but we've been keen to remember that 2009 will bring Halo Wars, Halo 3: Recon and even Resident Evil 5. But even more surprises in 2009? Unimaginable! We'll be accepting of these Xbox surprises, but we're not sure our bank account will be as understanding.

[Via Game Stooge]

JoystiqMicrosoft promises a few surprises in 2009 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 03 Nov 2008 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009ensemblehalo-3-reconhalo-warsmicrosoftMon, 03 Nov 2008 18:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Downer: The Flood not playable in Halo Wars]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/13/downer-the-flood-not-playable-in-halo-wars/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/13/downer-the-flood-not-playable-in-halo-wars/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/13/downer-the-flood-not-playable-in-halo-wars/#commentsFiled under: ,

So, Joystiq put up an article summing up its impressions of Halo Wars. Sure, there are a lot of gameplay details to glean from the article, and Ensemble Studios explains why there are vehicles in Halo Wars that aren't in any of the Halo games. There are lots of things you can learn in the article, but there is one glaring thing that stands out like Cliff Bleszinski in a rainbow clown wig: the Flood is not playable. Again, the Flood is not playable in Halo Wars.

It's a sad reality, and one we're not willing to accept. Already, we're contorting Ensemble's promise of future DLC to mean that maybe, just maybe the Flood will be added in the future. If not, well, there's always Halo Wars 2.

JoystiqDowner: The Flood not playable in Halo Wars originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 Oct 2008 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-Industriesensembleensemble-studioshalohalo-warsmgsmicrosoft-game-studiosReal-Time-StrategyRTSMon, 13 Oct 2008 16:15:00 EST