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[Epic: Silicon Knights lawsuit over, 'jury finds for Epic on all counts' [Update: Epic awarded $4.45 million]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/30/epic-silicon-knights-lawsuit-over-jury-finds-for-epic-on-all/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/30/epic-silicon-knights-lawsuit-over-jury-finds-for-epic-on-all/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/30/epic-silicon-knights-lawsuit-over-jury-finds-for-epic-on-all/#comments ImageAccording to Epic Game vice president and co-founder Mark Rein, the years long lawsuit between Silicon Knights and Epic Games came to an end today. Rein took to Twitter to broadcast the news. "Case over. Jury finds for Epic on all counts," he said. Silicon Knights hasn't issued a formal response as of yet, though we've reached out for confirmation.

The suit arose over allegations from Silicon Knights that Epic Games was withholding pieces of its Unreal Engine 3 - pieces that were allegedly instrumental in the creation of Too Human. Due to the alleged delays, Silicon Knights says it was forced to implement its own game engine (known only as "Silicon Knights engine") to complete the project.

Since Too Human, Silicon Knights went on to create the critically-panned X-Men: Destiny and suffered major layoffs. Epic, however, has seen its Unreal Engine 3 thrive across the current generation of consoles, not to mention the success it's seen with the Gears of War franchise.

Update: Epic issued a statement this afternoon stating that "The jury rejected Silicon Knights' claim that Epic breached its Unreal Engine 3 license agreement with Silicon Knights. The jury also found in Epic's favor on all of its counterclaims, namely that Silicon Knights breached the license agreement, misappropriated Epic's trade secrets, and infringed Epic's copyrights in the Unreal Engine 3 code. The jury awarded Epic damages totaling $4.45 million." The full statement is below the break; we've yet to hear anything from Silicon Knights.

[Image credit: 'bloomsberries']

Continue reading Epic: Silicon Knights lawsuit over, 'jury finds for Epic on all counts' [Update: Epic awarded $4.45 million]

JoystiqEpic: Silicon Knights lawsuit over, 'jury finds for Epic on all counts' [Update: Epic awarded $4.45 million] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 May 2012 14:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epicepic-gamessilicon-knightsWed, 30 May 2012 14:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Silicon Knights entitled to $1 per claim if it wins court case against Epic Games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/silicon-knights-entitled-to-1-per-claim-if-it-wins-court-case-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/silicon-knights-entitled-to-1-per-claim-if-it-wins-court-case-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/silicon-knights-entitled-to-1-per-claim-if-it-wins-court-case-a/#comments ImageSilicon Knights will be entitled to $1 in damages, per claim, if it wins a court case against Epic Games over inadequacies in the support of its Unreal Engine. Silicon Knights first sued Epic in 2007, alleging Epic didn't fulfill the promised delivery time or expectations of Unreal Engine 3, forcing Silicon Knights to build its own engine for the production of Too Human.

Silicon Knights didn't provide a breakdown of the damages it sought, and the judge assigned his own value of $1 per claim, Polygon reports. If Silicon Knights wins the case, it will be able to appeal how the value was chosen and perhaps raise it to a figure that can't be found on neighborhood lemonade-stand signs.

The case is in court this month and is expected to run for another week.

JoystiqSilicon Knights entitled to $1 per claim if it wins court case against Epic Games originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 May 2012 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Epic-Gameslawsuitmicrosoftsilicon-knightstoo-humanUnrealunreal-engine-3xboxTue, 22 May 2012 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Unleash 'The Power of Liking' in Infinity Blade 2's 'Vault of Tears' this Thursday (tissues not included)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/unleash-the-power-of-liking-in-infinity-blade-2s-vault-of-te/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/unleash-the-power-of-liking-in-infinity-blade-2s-vault-of-te/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/unleash-the-power-of-liking-in-infinity-blade-2s-vault-of-te/#comments ImageIt's not a new box set from The Cure, nor from Joy Division, nor from Him. It's not a Tears for Fears reference, nor is it access to Prince's 1980s clothing selections! Nope, Infinity Blade 2's "Vault of Tears" is actually a massive (free) content update headed to Epic's latest iOS entry this Thursday.

Several new enemies are being added, as well as "more than 50 new items" and rewards. Most bizarrely, the ability to "earn extra turns and invite their friends, family, and other non-Infinity Blade players to do in-game damage with the power of liking and re-tweeting battle calls." You read that right, folks: "the power of liking and re-tweeting battle calls." In the biz, we call that a "paradigm shift." Also, awful.

Gallery: Infinity Blade 2 (Vault of Tears)

Continue reading Unleash 'The Power of Liking' in Infinity Blade 2's 'Vault of Tears' this Thursday (tissues not included)

JoystiqUnleash 'The Power of Liking' in Infinity Blade 2's 'Vault of Tears' this Thursday (tissues not included) originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 May 2012 11:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chairchair-entertainmentepicepic-gamesfacebookinfinity-blade-2twitterupdatevault-of-tearsMon, 21 May 2012 11:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Pitbull Studio assisting with Unreal Engine 4, also developing UE4-based games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/epic-getting-unreal-engine-4-assistance-from-pitbull-studios-al/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/epic-getting-unreal-engine-4-assistance-from-pitbull-studios-al/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/epic-getting-unreal-engine-4-assistance-from-pitbull-studios-al/#comments Never heard of Pitbull Studio? Neither had we. Apparently the English studio specializes in hired gun work and is lead by ex-Midway Newcastle's Robert Troughton (Wheelman, etc.). While unknown, the three-year-old studio is working on two things for Epic Games: Unreal Engine 4, and a game built in said engine. Not too bad for a group of guys no one's heard of, eh?

Job listings for positions at Pitbull reveal the studio is "working on Unreal Engine 4 with Epic Games," but also, "games derived from that and Unreal Engine 3." Positions range from environment artists to engine programmers, with a variety of other roles in between. Epic confirmed the work with Joystiq this afternoon, and offered a prepared statement from director of engineering, Daniel Vogel. "Epic has a great history working with Pitbull Studio. We can count on them to provide reliable engineering resources, and they're helping us prepare for the next generation of games."

We'll see more from Epic's next-gen engine this June.

JoystiqPitbull Studio assisting with Unreal Engine 4, also developing UE4-based games originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 May 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epicepic-gamespcpitbullpitbull-studiosunreal-engineunreal-engine-3unreal-engine-4Thu, 17 May 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Descend into Infinity Blade Dungeons gameplay footage]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/descend-into-infinity-blade-dungeons-gameplay-footage/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/descend-into-infinity-blade-dungeons-gameplay-footage/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/descend-into-infinity-blade-dungeons-gameplay-footage/#comments Image
The first gameplay footage of Infinity Blade: Dungeons reveals a game that is very different from its predecessors. For one thing, all the enemies aren't orc-type club wielders and Voldo guys - there's a dog thing too.

Oh, and it's an overhead-view Diablo-style dungeon crawl experience instead of a one-on-one sword fighting game. That's another subtle difference you may have missed.

JoystiqDescend into Infinity Blade Dungeons gameplay footage originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 May 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epicepic-gamesinfinity-bladeinfinity-blade-dungeonsiosipadiphonemobileThu, 17 May 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Unreal Engine 4's GDC demo: exposed!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/unreal-engine-4s-gdc-demo-exposed/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/unreal-engine-4s-gdc-demo-exposed/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/unreal-engine-4s-gdc-demo-exposed/#comments ImageJust around 30 lucky GDC attendees saw Epic Games' Unreal Engine 4 demo. And one such person was Wired's Stu Horvath, who describes the two minute demonstration as "breathtakingly photo-realistic" in an exclusive reveal. The demo apparently follows the demon knight seen above, as he wakes from a frozen sleep ... only to set everything on fire. That scamp!

The demo runs on Nvidia's Kepler GTX 680 - a graphics card often described as "next-gen" - and it follows the armored demon dude as he shows off his fancy, graphics-heavy castle. Just 14 Epic employees put together the demo, which apparently runs in real-time within the Unreal Engine 4 environment (a feat for modern game engines, including UE3). Don't be surprised if we see this demo show up in a future Epic game - the company's past demos for Unreal Engine lead to some of Epic's biggest games.

Lighting is also improved, according to the piece, with "dynamic lighting" within the engine rather than being individually implemented after the fact. "The number of man-years that required was astounding," Epic design director Cliff Bleszinski said. But with all the additions, Epic's new engine requires much more horsepower; horsepower for which Epic is pushing the likes of Microsoft and Sony. Whether Epic (and us gamers) will get that horsepower, however, remains to be seen.

JoystiqUnreal Engine 4's GDC demo: exposed! originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 May 2012 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cliff-bleszinskiepicepic-gamespcunreal-engineunreal-engine-4Thu, 17 May 2012 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Epic Games gives away soundtrack retrospective for 20th anniversary]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/epic-games-gives-away-soundtrack-retrospective-for-20th-annivers/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/epic-games-gives-away-soundtrack-retrospective-for-20th-annivers/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/epic-games-gives-away-soundtrack-retrospective-for-20th-annivers/#comments ImageEpic Games has turned 20 years old, and to celebrate the company is giving away a free album of tunes from its games over the past two decades. You can pick up the tracks from the official blog right now. The set includes everything from the Main Theme of Unreal and the Menu Song of Jazz Jackrabbit, all the way up to tracks from Infinity Blade 2 and Gears of War 3.

And what, you might ask, did they include as a bonus track? Perhaps the pinnacle of Epic Games' musical gifts to the world at large? It's the Cole Train Rap from the first Gears of War, of course. Woo baby! Bring it on sucka! Etc.

JoystiqEpic Games gives away soundtrack retrospective for 20th anniversary originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 May 2012 03:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epicepic-gamesgears-of-wargears-of-war-3jazz-jackrabbitmicrosoftmusicpcunrealunreal-tournamentxboxThu, 10 May 2012 03:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Epic considered Bulletstorm sequel, but found project that's a 'better fit' for People Can Fly]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/10/epic-considered-bulletstorm-sequel-but-found-project-thats-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/10/epic-considered-bulletstorm-sequel-but-found-project-thats-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/10/epic-considered-bulletstorm-sequel-but-found-project-thats-a/#comments During a post-panel interview at PAX East, Epic Games president Mike Capps admitted he thought about letting People Can Fly loose on a Bulletstorm sequel. He even admitted that there had been some "initial development" completed on a sequel.

"We thought a lot about a sequel, and had done some initial development on it, but we found a project that we thought was a better fit for People Can Fly," Capps told Gamespot. "We haven't announced that yet, but we will be announcing it pretty soon." He may be referring to the new PC-exclusive title that Cliff Bleszinski revealed was in development.

In regards to the possibility of a sequel, Capps said he'd have no problem producing a second Bulletstorm game. "I'd love to go back [to Bulletstorm]," he said. "I think there's more to do with Bulletstorm. Heck, it kind of ended wanting more. I'd love to see another project, but right now we don't have anything to talk about."

JoystiqEpic considered Bulletstorm sequel, but found project that's a 'better fit' for People Can Fly originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Apr 2012 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bulletstormepicepic-gamesmicrosoftpax-east-2012pcpeople-can-flyplaystationps3xboxTue, 10 Apr 2012 10:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Fortnite listing changed from PC to TBD after follow-up]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/fortnite-listing-changed-from-pc-to-tbd-after-follow-up/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/fortnite-listing-changed-from-pc-to-tbd-after-follow-up/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/fortnite-listing-changed-from-pc-to-tbd-after-follow-up/#comments ImageEpic Games producer Chris Mielke has a few projects under his wing at the moment, after having shipped a variety of past games with the studio. Beyond anything unlisted, his LinkedIn profile shows that he's currently working on both Infinity Blade: Dungeons and Epic's new IP, Fortnite. While we know the former is heading to iOS devices, the latter still hasn't been given a platform.

Up until this morning, however, Mielke's profile also offered a bit more detail on Fortnite, as seen in the image above of the cached search on Google (thanks Google!). While Epic Games wouldn't offer a comment on the listing, his profile mysteriously went from listing the game as "Fortnite (PC)" to "Fortnite (TBD)" after our inquiry.

We also asked directly if Fortnite is the aforementioned PC-exclusive title in the works at Epic. "Yes, we're working on a PC game. No, it's not a port. Yes, you'll have to wait to find out more," was all we were told, unfortunately.

JoystiqFortnite listing changed from PC to TBD after follow-up originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Apr 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chris-mielkeepicepic-gamesfortniteMon, 09 Apr 2012 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Infinity Blade 2 update drops next week, introduces ClashMobs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/08/infinity-blade-2-update-drops-next-week-introduces-clashmobs/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/08/infinity-blade-2-update-drops-next-week-introduces-clashmobs/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/08/infinity-blade-2-update-drops-next-week-introduces-clashmobs/#comments ImageHaving received an iPad 3 update recently, Infinity Blade 2 has a new, more substantial upgrade coming on Thursday. It will tweak the gem interface and let you meld together three gems, creating a single, more powerful jewel. There's also a new game mode, called ClashMob.

ClashMob is a global social game mode where hundreds or thousands of players can come together to take on enemies with massive health pools for the chance to unlock in-game goodies. By recruiting friends into your "Mob," you'll increase your odds at getting some sweet gear, cash, or whatever that particular challenge awards you. You'll be able to enlist folks in your Mob by importing your friends from Facebook and Game Center.

JoystiqInfinity Blade 2 update drops next week, introduces ClashMobs originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 08 Apr 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.1-updatechairChair-Entertainmentepic-gamesinfinity-blade-2iosipadiphonemobileupdateSun, 08 Apr 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mike Capps: Epic Games has a PC-exclusive game in the works]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/07/epic-games-has-a-pc-exclusive-in-the-works/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/07/epic-games-has-a-pc-exclusive-in-the-works/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/07/epic-games-has-a-pc-exclusive-in-the-works/#comments ImageGears of War and Fortnite dev Epic Games is getting back to its roots with a PC-exclusive project, creative lead Cliff Bleszinski and president Mike Capps announced today during a PAX East panel. "We might be working on a PC-only title," Capps teased, before Bleszinski picked up where he left off: "Let me say that again: we are working on a PC game."

The panel is still going on, but we'll be sure to chat to the Epic folks as soon as it's over.

Update: Epic Games prez Mike Capps told us after the panel that the unannounced PC project is currently underway, and that the current plans are to keep the game exclusive to the PC platform. Unsurprisingly, he wouldn't tell us anything else.

JoystiqMike Capps: Epic Games has a PC-exclusive game in the works originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 07 Apr 2012 13:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cliff-bleszinskiclifford-bleszinskiepicepic-gamesmike-cappspax-eastpax-east-2012pcSat, 07 Apr 2012 13:50:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Gears of War 3 'Forces of Nature' maps out today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/psa-gears-of-war-3-forces-of-nature-maps-out-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/psa-gears-of-war-3-forces-of-nature-maps-out-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/psa-gears-of-war-3-forces-of-nature-maps-out-today/#comments
A quick note for all the Gears of War 3 players out there: The "Forces of Nature" map pack is now available on Xbox Live. The pack contains the three new maps Aftermath, Artillery and Cover, as well as the return of Raven Down and Jacinto. It also tosses in several new multiplayer characters.

Forces of Nature is free to season pass holders. For everyone else, it's 800 MS Points ($10). See a ludicrous number of map videos after the break.

Gallery: Gears of War 3 - Force of Nature DLC

Continue reading PSA: Gears of War 3 'Forces of Nature' maps out today

JoystiqPSA: Gears of War 3 'Forces of Nature' maps out today originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 Mar 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epicepic-gamesGears-of-War-3microsoftxboxxbox-liveTue, 27 Mar 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New Gears of War 3 title update emerges tomorrow]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/19/new-gears-of-war-3-title-update-emerges-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/19/new-gears-of-war-3-title-update-emerges-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/19/new-gears-of-war-3-title-update-emerges-tomorrow/#comments The fourth major title update for Gears of War 3 is set to drop tomorrow, offering players yet another round of tweaks and bug fixes. For one, Savage Grenadiers and Savage Drones can now perform SWAT turns in Beast Mode.

King of the Hill is also tended to -- ring locations are now visibile in spectator mode, and on some levels the ring locations have been moved. Other multiplayer tweaks include balancing the pistol fire rate between hosts and non-host players. And one particular glitch involving the elevator area on the map Hotel has been fixed.

The minor maintenance, which goes live at 2AM PT tomorrow, precedes the launch of the Forces of Nature DLC pack next week. For the full update notes, check the source link below.

JoystiqNew Gears of War 3 title update emerges tomorrow originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Mar 2012 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epic-gamesGears-of-War-3microsofttitle-updatetitle-update-4xboxMon, 19 Mar 2012 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Epic: Consoles must be 'bleeding edge' in next generation]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/12/epic-consoles-must-be-bleeding-edge-in-next-generation/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/12/epic-consoles-must-be-bleeding-edge-in-next-generation/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/12/epic-consoles-must-be-bleeding-edge-in-next-generation/#comments
Epic believes that the next round of home consoles will have to be "bleeding edge" if the likes of Microsoft, Sony and Nintendo want to stay relevant in the video game market. Speaking to CVG, Epic VP Mark Rein noted that the publisher is "pushing" console makers to use the best possible hardware. "Because if they don't," said Rein, "Apple will go right past them."

He added that console gaming is about console makers "delivering something that's way out past the bleeding edge" and making their investment back with software royalties. If console makers don't opt for the latest and greatest tech, he said, there's a chance that consumers "won't want to take the leap" to future consoles.

In Rein's view, it's Epic's job to push console makers with advanced technology demos like the "Samaritan" video shown at GDC 2011 (above). Incidentally, Rein isn't worried that console makers will under-deliver with the next generation, believing that they will instead "blow us all away." With Unreal Engine 4 aimed at next generation consoles, and assuming UE4 is even more impressive than the UE3-powered Samaritan demo, we certainly hope he's right.

JoystiqEpic: Consoles must be 'bleeding edge' in next generation originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Mar 2012 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epicepic-gamesmark-reinunreal-engine-3Unreal-Engine-4Mon, 12 Mar 2012 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Epic Games China isn't quite part of Epic Games [update: even more info!]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/epic-games-china-isnt-quite-part-of-epic-games-but-kinda-sorta/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/epic-games-china-isnt-quite-part-of-epic-games-but-kinda-sorta/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/epic-games-china-isnt-quite-part-of-epic-games-but-kinda-sorta/#comments Yesterday, we went to a GDC appointment with "Epic Games China" to see a game called Mercenary Ops. Built in Unreal Engine 3 and filled with Gears of War-esque gameplay, it was revealed as the first project from "Epic Games China." As it turns out, that's not quite true. "Mercenary Ops is being developed by Ying Pei Games, which was formerly Epic Games China. However, as with our many development and publishing partners, they are utilizing Unreal Engine technology," Epic Games' US reps told The Verge.

More bizarre? "Ying Pei" in Mandarin means "Epic," making "Ying Pei Games" the equivalent of ... "Epic Games." According to Epic Games (the American one), "We do own a minority stake in Ying Pei Games and we do work with them as with our other Unreal Engine developers, but Epic Games is not developing Mercenary Ops."

Additionally, EpicGamesChina.com directs to the Ying Pei website, and we were told by reps yesterday that the studio is a "subsidiary" of Epic Games US. The game's publisher, "Delkans," is brand new to North American publishing and has two mystery owners from the tech sector, making this whole story all the stranger.

Update: Epic Games' US reps tell us, "When they first launched the studio we clearly gave them Epic's blessing to call themselves Epic Games China. We were ready to have a more on-the-ground presence in China to reach those developers with our technology more effectively, not to mention we wanted to learn more about that market's needs and its growing talent base.

"They changed their name in 2010, can't recall which month. We didn't make a big fuss over it because our working relationship hasn't changed. They use our tech, they sell it, they make their own games, nothing new to report." So there's that!

Update 2: Ying Pei Games' publisher, Delkans Publishing, issued the following statement to Joystiq this afternoon: "Delkans Publishing, a new North American game publisher, wants to clarify that Mercenary Ops is being developed by Yingpei Games, Ltd., which is formerly known as Epic Games China. Yingpei Games, Ltd. is going through a transitionary phase and will continue to garner support from Epic Games and utilize their Unreal Engine 3 technology. Delkans Publishing will provide further background information on the developer, Yingpei Games, Ltd. in the coming weeks. Delkans Publishing apologizes for any confusion."

JoystiqEpic Games China isn't quite part of Epic Games [update: even more info!] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>delkansepic-gamesepic-games-chinagdcgdc-2012mercenary-opspcying-pei-gamesyingpei-gamesWed, 07 Mar 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Epic Games China bringing Mercenary Ops exclusively to NA/EU computers this summer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/06/epic-games-china-bringing-mercenary-ops-exclusively-to-na-eu-com/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/06/epic-games-china-bringing-mercenary-ops-exclusively-to-na-eu-com/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/06/epic-games-china-bringing-mercenary-ops-exclusively-to-na-eu-com/#comments There's a whole group of folks at Epic Games China and they're working hard on the first big title from Epic Games' eastern subsidiary. The game, Mercenary Ops, is a ... somewhat derivative third-person shooter built in Unreal Engine 3, which uses cover, blind fire, and active reloading mechanics (from the Gears of War franchise) as main gameplay concepts. Given the "mercenary dudes" setting, the combination of Gears gameplay and bro'd out characters gives it a Gears of War meets Call of Duty feeling, as we discovered during a brief hands-on session today at GDC 2012. So ... yeah, perfectly competent, but not the most original.

Perhaps more interesting, the game isn't being published by EGC's American parent company, but instead a brand new North American publisher named Delkans. And what in the world is Delkans? That's a good question -- one that company reps weren't willing to supply an answer for when repeatedly asked during our meeting today. Apparently the publisher is made up of folks from the tech industry, though that's all we could pull out of reps.

Mercenary Ops is planned for a summer 2012 launch in North America and Europe, with Asian markets potentially following (Delkans isn't talking solid plans just yet).

Gallery: Mercenary Ops

JoystiqEpic Games China bringing Mercenary Ops exclusively to NA/EU computers this summer originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>delkansepic-gamesepic-games-chinagdcgdc-2012mercenary-opspcq2-2012q3-2012release-dateTue, 06 Mar 2012 19:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Epic Games to privately showcase Unreal Engine 4 at GDC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/epic-games-to-privately-showcase-unreal-engine-4-at-gdc/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/epic-games-to-privately-showcase-unreal-engine-4-at-gdc/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/epic-games-to-privately-showcase-unreal-engine-4-at-gdc/#comments Unreal Engine 3 is one of (if not the most) prolific gaming technologies in existence right now, powering everything from Mortal Kombat and Asura's Wrath to Gears of War 3 and Batman: Arkham City. If you're one of the many developers that depend on Epic's engine, the upcoming 2012 Game Developers Conference may be your first chance to see the next generation of Unreal Engine in action.

Epic will be showcasing Unreal Engine 4 to "select licensees, partners and prospective customers" behind closed doors at the conference; demonstrations will be given by appointment only, and all who attend must sign what we can only assume is the most air-tight, all-encompassing non-disclosure agreement ever written. For instance, developers allowed into Epic's demonstration area may not smuggle air out of the demonstration area inside of their lungs and then transfer that air to the lungs of another living person, under pain of chainsaw death. It's pretty serious stuff, but it's probably worth it to see some totally sweet tech demos.

Continue reading Epic Games to privately showcase Unreal Engine 4 at GDC

JoystiqEpic Games to privately showcase Unreal Engine 4 at GDC originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 27 Feb 2012 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EpicEpic-GamesGDC-2012Unreal-EngineUnreal-Engine-3Unreal-Engine-4Mon, 27 Feb 2012 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Gears of War 3 'Forces of Nature' DLC emerges March 27]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/gears-of-war-3-forces-of-nature-dlc-emerges-march-27/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/gears-of-war-3-forces-of-nature-dlc-emerges-march-27/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/gears-of-war-3-forces-of-nature-dlc-emerges-march-27/#comments Here we were thinking the battle for humanity was wrapped up in the Gears of War universe and Epic Games goes and ruins our celebration with new downloadable content! Revealed on GTTV tonight [via Side Mission], the "Forces of Nature" DLC will add three new maps to Gears of War 3 dubbed Aftermath, Artillery, and Cove along with two returning locales, Jacinto and Raven Down.

Revealed by Epic executive produce Rod Fergusson, each map is described as taking place in the middle of or in the aftermath of a natural disaster. Gears of War 3 'Season Pass' holders will get the content free when it launches on March 27. No price was established for the DLC, but previous multiplayer DLC was made available for 800MS Points ($10).

In addition to the maps, the DLC includes four character models, three of which were previously available as a pre-order bonus (seen after the break); five new weapon skins for immediate use; and two skins only unlockable via the Forces of Nature content. It's a good thing we didn't bronze our Lancers, because it looks like more grubs need killing.

Continue reading Gears of War 3 'Forces of Nature' DLC emerges March 27

JoystiqGears of War 3 'Forces of Nature' DLC emerges March 27 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 Feb 2012 02:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DLCdownloadable-contentEpic-GamesGears-of-WarGears-of-War-3microsoftMicrosoft-Game-StudiosxboxFri, 17 Feb 2012 02:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Unreal Engine 4 to be seen 'later this year,' says Mark Rein]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/11/unreal-engine-4-to-be-seen-later-this-year-says-mark-rein/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/11/unreal-engine-4-to-be-seen-later-this-year-says-mark-rein/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/11/unreal-engine-4-to-be-seen-later-this-year-says-mark-rein/#comments 0Epic's Mark Rein did some hit-and-run teasing at DICE last week, telling G4 that "people are going to be shocked later this year when they see Unreal Engine 4 and how much more profound an effect it will have." We've heard before that Epic is working hard on Unreal Engine 4, and while Epic doesn't expect to see games running on the engine until 2014, it makes a lot of sense that Rein would want to show it off, especially if we also see some next-gen console reveals later on this year.

As for what it'll look like, we can only say (and sorry for all of the technical jargon on this one) that it will probably look "very good." How do we know? Because 4 is higher than 3, silly. You probably wouldn't understand.

JoystiqUnreal Engine 4 to be seen 'later this year,' says Mark Rein originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 11 Feb 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consolesdiceepicepic-gamesmark-reinmicrosoftnext-genpcsonyunreal-engineSat, 11 Feb 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Epic's 'Make Something Unreal Live' contestants to create Fighting Fantasy iOS games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/08/epics-make-something-unreal-live-contestants-to-create-fighti/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/08/epics-make-something-unreal-live-contestants-to-create-fighti/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/08/epics-make-something-unreal-live-contestants-to-create-fighti/#comments Having recently optioned rights to the Fighting Fantasy series of books from Ian Livingstone and Steve Jackson, Epic Games is putting an interesting spin on its Make Something Unreal Live contest.

Here's how it works: four different start-up studios will each select one book from the fantasy series and make a game for Epic, to be released on the App Store sometime this spring. The winning team walks away with a free commercial Unreal Engine 3 license for iOS.

The books chosen are The Warlock of Firetop Mountain, The Citadel of Chaos, Deathtrap Dungeon and Armies of Death. Each title will premiere at Gadget Show Live 2012, which takes place from April 10 through April 15 in Birmingham, UK.

Continue reading Epic's 'Make Something Unreal Live' contestants to create Fighting Fantasy iOS games

JoystiqEpic's 'Make Something Unreal Live' contestants to create Fighting Fantasy iOS games originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epic-gamesfighting-fantasyiosipadiphonemake-something-unreal-livemobileunrealWed, 08 Feb 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[C&C: Renegade remake Renegade X: Black Dawn deploys tomorrow]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/27/candc-renegade-remake-renegade-x-black-dawn-deploys-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/27/candc-renegade-remake-renegade-x-black-dawn-deploys-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/27/candc-renegade-remake-renegade-x-black-dawn-deploys-tomorrow/#comments
Here at Joystiq, we pride ourselves on being inside your mind, knowing what it wants, knowing what it thinks. We're like a somewhat creepier, less linguistic Babel Fish. The one thing your brain has been demanding is an updated version of 2002's Command & Conquer: Renegade.

We'd like to bring to your attention Renengade X: Black Dawn, a "spiritual successor" created by fans at Totem Arts. Tomorrow, the group will release the full single-player "mini-campaign," which was built in the Unreal Development Kit, and later Totem Arts plans to release a new multiplayer installment using the UDK.

In its current form, Renegade X is an updated version of the original game's multiplayer, made in Unreal Tournament 3, and has been playable for some time. If you want to partake, you'll need to own a copy of Unreal Tournament 3 with the latest updates.

Or, you know, just wait a day.

[Thanks, ssjChris!]

JoystiqC&C: Renegade remake Renegade X: Black Dawn deploys tomorrow originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Jan 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>command-and-conquercommand-and-conquer-renegadeepicepic-gamespcrenegade-xrenegade-x-black-dawntotem-artsudkunrealunreal-development-kitunreal-tournament-3Fri, 27 Jan 2012 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gears of War 3 toys bring the carnage down to a child's level]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/gears-of-war-3-toys-bring-the-carnage-down-to-a-childs-level/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/gears-of-war-3-toys-bring-the-carnage-down-to-a-childs-level/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/gears-of-war-3-toys-bring-the-carnage-down-to-a-childs-level/#comments Gears of War 3 the video game may be targeted at mature adults, but Gears of War 3 the toy? Ages 8 and up. Sure, the kids pretending to shove chainsaw bayonets into Locust chest cavities may get the hands-on enjoyment of alien mutilation, but at least they're not watching it on a screen.

A series of Gears of War 3 toys were spotted at the Toy Fair in New York, produced by Meccano and including the Armadillo APC (£24.99), the Centaur Tank (£34.99) and the King Raven helicopter (£39.99). The toys are still being approved by Epic Games, with plans to hit stores in August.

JoystiqGears of War 3 toys bring the carnage down to a child's level originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Jan 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EpicEpic-GamesGears-of-War-3Meccanomicrosofttoy-fairtoy-fair-2012xboxWed, 25 Jan 2012 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Gears of War 3 title update 3 drops today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/psa-gears-of-war-3-title-update-3-drops-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/psa-gears-of-war-3-title-update-3-drops-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/psa-gears-of-war-3-title-update-3-drops-today/#comments Sick and tired of people hiding in that one spot on Mercy and, well, mercilessly gunning you down? Well, Epic's finally fixed that (among other things) in its third title update for Gears of War 3.

You'll be prompted to download the update upon booting up your game today. It also addresses ghost camera issues and allows players to prime a revive for a DBNO (down but not out) teammate by holding in the Y button before they approach. It's basically the same thing as holding in the X button before approaching a weapon pickup.

Random Quickmatch playlist map order is another addition, as is non-Versus mode weapon swaps in Horde mode. Now, players will find the default weapons on each map that were available when the game initially shipped, as opposed to the current weapon assignments found in online versus multiplayer matches.

[Thanks, Steve D.]

JoystiqPSA: Gears of War 3 title update 3 drops today originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epic-gamesGears-of-War-3microsofttitle-updatetitle-update-3xboxWed, 11 Jan 2012 21:30:00 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[Infinity Blade franchise surpasses $30 million in revenue]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/05/infinity-blade-franchise-surpasses-30-million-in-revenue/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/05/infinity-blade-franchise-surpasses-30-million-in-revenue/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/05/infinity-blade-franchise-surpasses-30-million-in-revenue/#comments Epic Games announced today that its Infinity Blade franchise has earned over $30 million since the original game launched in December 2010. Infinity Blade 2, available for $7 on the iOS App Store, has generated over $5 million for the developer since its December 1, 2011, launch.

"The success of the Infinity Blade franchise is testament to our talented team who is devoted to making games we want to play, all while using Unreal Engine technology to redefine what is expected from games on iOS devices," Epic Games President Dr. Michael Capps said in the company's announcement. "We have so much more in store for players, and will continue to make great content for Apple's evolving platforms."

The original Infinity Blade took three months to reach the $5 million mark in sales, reaching the $10 million milestone this past June, having grossed over $23 million to date. Assisting Epic's franchise math beyond the core iOS titles are digital novella Infinity Blade: Awakening, Infinity Blade: Original Soundtrack and Infinity Blade FX.

Update: Financial details tweaked after further clarification.

Continue reading Infinity Blade franchise surpasses $30 million in revenue

JoystiqInfinity Blade franchise surpasses $30 million in revenue originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Jan 2012 11:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Chair-EntertainmentEpicEpic-GamesInfinity-Bladeinfinity-blade-2iosipadiphonemobileThu, 05 Jan 2012 11:59:00 EST<![CDATA[ESA member Epic Games speaks out against SOPA [Update: So do 38 Studios and Trion]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/05/esa-member-epic-games-speaks-out-against-sopa/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/05/esa-member-epic-games-speaks-out-against-sopa/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/05/esa-member-epic-games-speaks-out-against-sopa/#comments Epic Games, developer of the Gears of War series and member of the Entertainment Software Association, last night came out against the proposed "Stop Online Piracy Act" (SOPA).

"We do not support the current version of SOPA," Epic Games senior PR manager Dana Cowley wrote in a public letter posted to the North Carolina company's forums. "We are members of the Entertainment Software Association (ESA), a trade organization that is working with legislators to refine the bill," she said, referring to the ESA's letter of support for the proposed legislation released earlier this week.

She added, "Epic Games supports efforts that would stop overseas websites profiting from pirating our games, but we have to do that in a way that's compatible with freedom of speech and due process of law."

Epic is the first member of the ESA - the political lobbying arm of the game industry - to speak out against SOPA, but we suspect it won't be the last. We've dropped a list of remaining ESA members after the break who have yet to rescind support for the proposed legislation.

Update: 38 Studios is also against SOPA, writing on its Facebook wall, "Based on the SOPA bill's current structure, 38 Studios believes that the bill requires further restructuring and review to ensure it both preserves rights and protects intellectual properties. Please know that we take this issue very seriously," as spotted by Rock, Paper, Shotgun. Trion also has come out against the proposed legislation, writing on its forums, "We definitely do not support SOPA. We'll be calling the ESA about this after the holiday weekend."

Continue reading ESA member Epic Games speaks out against SOPA [Update: So do 38 Studios and Trion]

JoystiqESA member Epic Games speaks out against SOPA [Update: So do 38 Studios and Trion] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Jan 2012 08:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dana-cowleyentertainment-software-associationepicepic-gamesesalobbyingpoliticssopaThu, 05 Jan 2012 08:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Best of the Rest: Dave's picks of 2011]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/01/best-of-the-rest-daves-picks-of-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/01/best-of-the-rest-daves-picks-of-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/01/best-of-the-rest-daves-picks-of-2011/#comments Superbrothers: Sword & Sworcery EP
This masterpiece is 98 percent of the reason I bought an iPad. Okay, maybe not quite -- it's more like 99 percent -- but Sword & Sworcery is a puzzle so perfect in its assembly, I haven't fully recovered. I'm sad I won't ever again experience the drive for discovery I felt the first time I was thrust into its picturesque locales. At the same time, I'm grateful I could spin that vinyl so long ago and step into another world.

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

JoystiqBest of the Rest: Dave's picks of 2011 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 01 Jan 2012 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>assassins-creed-revelationsbest-of-the-rest-2011bulletstormdouble-fineepic-gamesiosipadiphoneiron-brigademicrosoftmobileorcs-must-diepcpeople-can-flyplaystationps3robot-entertainmentsuperbrothers-sword-and-sworcery-eptrenchedubisoftxboxSun, 01 Jan 2012 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq Top 10 of 2011: Gears of War 3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/01/joystiq-top-10-of-2011-gears-of-war-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/01/joystiq-top-10-of-2011-gears-of-war-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/01/joystiq-top-10-of-2011-gears-of-war-3/#comments If my life were a book, the chapter covering the last quarter of 2011 would be one page long and contain one phrase, in bold: Gears of War 3. In reality, lots of things happened to me over the last couple months, but aside from a brief affair with Skyrim, most of my time was spent going to farmers markets and crafts fairs with Gears of War 3. You know, committed relationship couple-type stuff.

Continue reading Joystiq Top 10 of 2011: Gears of War 3

JoystiqJoystiq Top 10 of 2011: Gears of War 3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 01 Jan 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Epicepic-gamesGears-of-War-3joystiq-best-of-2011microsoftxboxSun, 01 Jan 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gears of War 3 'Season Pass,' props on sale today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/30/gears-of-war-3-season-pass-props-on-sale-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/30/gears-of-war-3-season-pass-props-on-sale-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/30/gears-of-war-3-season-pass-props-on-sale-today/#comments
Today's Xbox Live Marketplace holiday promotion covers Gears of War 3, with discounts on in-game content and at least one soon-to-be-discontinued Avatar prop.

The highlight of today's deals is the Gears of War 3 "Season Pass," which grants access to four DLC packs (two already available, two upcoming) for 1800 MSP ($22.50), which is 25 percent off the regular price. There's also a 50 percent discount on the "Gears 3 Skins Launch Collection," also priced today for 1800 MSP.

Microsoft will discontinue "gun-like Avatar items" from the Xbox Marketplace on January 1, 2012. This means here's your last chance to get the Gears of War Gold Lancer prop -- not only at a 50 percent discount of 160 MSP ($2) -- but, like, ever. The Gears Boomshield prop appears to be safe from delisting, and is also available for 160 MSP.

JoystiqGears of War 3 'Season Pass,' props on sale today originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 Dec 2011 12:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatar-marketplaceEpicEpic-GamesGears-of-War-3microsoftxblmxboxFri, 30 Dec 2011 12:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Scratch one Gears of War 3 demo]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/scratch-one-gears-of-war-3-demo/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/scratch-one-gears-of-war-3-demo/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/scratch-one-gears-of-war-3-demo/#comments A demo of the "Shipwreck" mission in Gears of War 3 is now available for download on Xbox Live, exclusive to all Gold subscribers. The mission takes place during the first chapter of the second act on Gumdrop mountain, as Delta squad defends the butterscotch fountain from the evil armies of -- okay, you got us. The mission takes place after a shipwreck.

JoystiqScratch one Gears of War 3 demo originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Dec 2011 20:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demoepicepic-gamesGears-of-War-3microsoftshipwreckxblmxboxWed, 28 Dec 2011 20:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Silicon Knights/Epic lawsuit turns in Epic's favor, reveals past SK projects including King's Quest]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/silicon-knights-epic-lawsuit-turns-in-epics-favor-reveals-past/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/silicon-knights-epic-lawsuit-turns-in-epics-favor-reveals-past/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/silicon-knights-epic-lawsuit-turns-in-epics-favor-reveals-past/#comments Silicon Knights' 2007 lawsuit against Epic Games, over 'inadequacies' in performance and support of Unreal Engine 3, continues. Last week, a judge delivered a damaging blow to SK's case when he granted a motion to exclude testimony from financial analyst Terry Lloyd, who was retained by SK to offer an expert opinion about the damages sought.

Judge James Dever III concluded that Lloyd delivered "his own subjective conclusions about an industry in which he had no prior knowledge or experience." His choices of competitors to compare sales against was called into question, as games like Grand Theft Auto IV and Gears of War didn't meet his criteria of similar marketing budgets or genre.

Court documents also reveal what Silicon Knights was up to elsewhere at the time of filing. The company was pursuing "development opportunities" with Vivendi, THQ, Capcom, and Namco. It had plans for Sandman and King's Quest games, and had gone so far as to make a prototype for King's Quest. Ironically, this would have been taking place right around the time a letter-writing campaign revived the fan-made The Silver Lining project ... which went on to be shut down, and then re-revived. And after all that, the King's Quest franchise is now in the hands of Telltale Games.

JoystiqSilicon Knights/Epic lawsuit turns in Epic's favor, reveals past SK projects including King's Quest originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Dec 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epic-gameskings-questlawsuitsandmansilicon-knightstoo-humanWed, 28 Dec 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: 'Gun-like' Avatar items disappearing from XBLM on Jan. 1]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/23/psa-gun-like-avatar-items-disappearing-from-xblm-on-jan-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/23/psa-gun-like-avatar-items-disappearing-from-xblm-on-jan-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/23/psa-gun-like-avatar-items-disappearing-from-xblm-on-jan-1/#comments An official post on the Epic Games forums states that the Lancer and Hammerbust items for Xbox Avatars will not be available starting January 1, 2012. Those who have purchased the items prior to the new year are in the clear and can keep them.

The post notes that the removal of the Lancer and Hammerburst are part of a new policy going into effect for "gun-like avatar items" on the Marketplace. It would appear that this is just the latest addition to the list of things Avatars can't have or do.

We've contacted Microsoft to receive a comprehensive list of "gun-like" items being removed.

[Thanks, Steven]

JoystiqPSA: 'Gun-like' Avatar items disappearing from XBLM on Jan. 1 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 Dec 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatarsEpic-GamesGears-of-War-3microsoftxboxxbox-avatarsFri, 23 Dec 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gears of War 3 adds 'Fenix Rising' map pack on Jan. 17]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/gears-of-war-3-adds-fenix-rising-map-pack-on-jan-17/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/gears-of-war-3-adds-fenix-rising-map-pack-on-jan-17/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/gears-of-war-3-adds-fenix-rising-map-pack-on-jan-17/#comments The "Fenix Rising" map pack for Gears of War 3 will decorate players who are already well-versed in rolling shotguns. The new add-on, due on January 17, 2012, for 800 MSP ($10), adds five new maps, four character skins and "Re-up," the Gears version of Call of Duty's "Prestige." Here, it allows players to rank through level 100 multiple times for "exclusive emblems and weapon skins."

The Re-up can be done three times to unlock the following weapon skins:
  • Re-Up Plasma - Animated flowing plasma in gold.
  • Re-Up Omen - Shiny, red Omen.
  • Re-Up Electric - Animated, golden electric shocks.
"Fenix Rising" is the third of four packs bundled with the $30 Gears Season Pass. The "underdeveloped" campaign DLC, RAAM's Shadow, was the most recent release, coming after the co-op focused "Horde Command Pack."

Gallery: Gears of War 3 (Fenix Rising)

Continue reading Gears of War 3 adds 'Fenix Rising' map pack on Jan. 17

JoystiqGears of War 3 adds 'Fenix Rising' map pack on Jan. 17 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Dec 2011 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DLCEpicepic-gamesFenix-RisingGears-of-War-3microsoftxboxWed, 21 Dec 2011 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Gears of War 3 celebrates the holidays with 12 Days of Gearsmas]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/13/gears-of-war-3-celebrates-the-holidays-with-12-days-of-gearsmas/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/13/gears-of-war-3-celebrates-the-holidays-with-12-days-of-gearsmas/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/13/gears-of-war-3-celebrates-the-holidays-with-12-days-of-gearsmas/#comments They just aren't the holidays without an active-reloaded Gnasher. Epic is ringing in the festive season with twelve days of custom playlists in Gears of War 3 and prizes, kicking off tomorrow at 5AM Eastern. Sorry, guys, the party's BYOEN (Bring Your Own Egg Nog).

Hit the source link below for the list of what's happening in Gears of War 3, though we should point out the list may change at Epic's discretion. As for prizes, Epic's not talking yet.

JoystiqGears of War 3 celebrates the holidays with 12 Days of Gearsmas originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Dec 2011 07:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>12-days-of-gearsmasepicepic-gamesGears-of-War-3microsoftxboxTue, 13 Dec 2011 07:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Cliff B talks Fortnite: 'There's no dudebros in it']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/11/cliff-b-talks-fortnite-theres-no-dudebros-in-it/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/11/cliff-b-talks-fortnite-theres-no-dudebros-in-it/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/11/cliff-b-talks-fortnite-theres-no-dudebros-in-it/#comments We cornered Epic lead Cliff Bleszinski on the VGAs red carpet yesterday to talk about the newly announced Fortnite, and he says that it'll be very different fare from the popular Gears of War series. "There's no dudebros in it," he told us outright. "Not that there's anything wrong with that, right? But creatively for the team, Gears has been amazing for us. But it's fun to kind of stretch our wings and do something that's a little different from the usual."

Epic's Lee Perry is the project lead on this one, but Bleszinski says that he definitely is involved in playing the game and giving feedback on development. "It was a project that was pitched internally. I was a staunch supporter of the idea, because the game is just like a no-brainer -- I was like yes."

So Epic is hard at work on Fortnite, Chair Entertainment is doing Infinity Blade on iOS, and we're curious as to what Bleszinski is up to lately. "I just hang out at the beach these days," he joked. "No, trust me, I have plenty to work on, it's just a lot of unannounced stuff. Trying to figure out where a lot of things are going in the next five years."

Given the success of Chair's iOS offerings, is that platform something that Epic's main branch would consider making games for? Bleszinski says no. "If we were to do that, which we're not, we'd probably make like six or seven iOS games. Our bread and butter is still with triple A and it's still largely with console, but it remains to be seen what happens."

JoystiqCliff B talks Fortnite: 'There's no dudebros in it' originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 11 Dec 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chair-entertainmentcliff-bleszinskiepic-gamesfortniteinfinity-bladespike-vga-2011Sun, 11 Dec 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Epic Games announces Fortnite]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/10/epic-games-announces-fortnite/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/10/epic-games-announces-fortnite/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/10/epic-games-announces-fortnite/#comments
With Gears of War 3 concluding Epic's flagship franchise this year, it's on to something new for the developer. It was kind enough to show just what that is tonight at Spike's VGAs: Fortnite.

Fortnite sees characters building forts and emplacements against monsters and other terrors of the night. Platforms were not announced.

JoystiqEpic Games announces Fortnite originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 10 Dec 2011 21:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epicEpic-Gamesfortnitespike-vga-2011Sat, 10 Dec 2011 21:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Epic's Tim Sweeney being inducted into AIAS Hall of Fame]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/epics-tim-sweeney-being-inducted-into-aias-hall-of-fame/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/epics-tim-sweeney-being-inducted-into-aias-hall-of-fame/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/epics-tim-sweeney-being-inducted-into-aias-hall-of-fame/#comments The Academy of Interactive Arts and Sciences has announced the 16th inductee to its Hall of Fame, a catalog which already contains literal game-changers like Peter Molyneux, Sid Meier and Will Wright. To be added to that list during the Interactive Achievement Awards at the 2012 D.I.C.E. Summit in February: Epic Games founder Tim Sweeney. You've almost certainly heard of him -- if not, you've definitely heard of the Unreal Engine, which he helped create. If you haven't heard of that, what is wrong with you?

The Interactive Achievement Awards, which will be presented February 9, will see Epic VP Mark Rein bestowing the honor upon Sweeney. We anticipate that his speech will include humorous jabs at one or more of Sweeney's lesser-known idiosyncrasies, as well as a heart-touching stanza about how he's not just a good boss, but a great friend. We're getting a little choked up just thinking about it.

JoystiqEpic's Tim Sweeney being inducted into AIAS Hall of Fame originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Dec 2011 13:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aiasepicepic-gameshall-of-fameiaaInteractive-Achievement-Awardsmark-reinmicrosoftpcplaystationps3tim-sweeneyxboxThu, 08 Dec 2011 13:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Raam's Shadow DLC showcased in latest Gears of War 3 screens]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/raams-shadow-dlc-showcased-in-latest-gears-of-war-3-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/raams-shadow-dlc-showcased-in-latest-gears-of-war-3-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/raams-shadow-dlc-showcased-in-latest-gears-of-war-3-screens/#comments Surprisingly, the Raam's Shadow DLC for Gears of War 3 is about more than just a solemn Locust brooding in the darkness. It's also about shooting lots of stuff with enormous future guns, as portrayed in the latest screens.

Continue reading Raam's Shadow DLC showcased in latest Gears of War 3 screens

JoystiqRaam's Shadow DLC showcased in latest Gears of War 3 screens originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Dec 2011 12:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcdownloadable-contentepicepic-gamesGears-of-War-3microsoftmicrosoft-game-studiosmicrosoft-studiosraams-shadowxboxThu, 08 Dec 2011 12:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Epic's Cliffy B teases 'fresh, new experience' to be revealed at VGAs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/05/epics-cliffy-b-teases-fresh-new-experience-to-be-revealed-at/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/05/epics-cliffy-b-teases-fresh-new-experience-to-be-revealed-at/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/05/epics-cliffy-b-teases-fresh-new-experience-to-be-revealed-at/#comments We've been let down by Epic teasing new IP in the past, so we're a bit wary of tipping you off on this one. That said, Epic Games design director Cliff Bleszinski took to an official Spike Video Game Awards promo himself to hint at a big reveal coming from his studio this week. "An entirely fresh, new experience" is what Bleszinski characterizes the unveiling as, specifically noting that it doesn't have anything to do with Gears of War or Infinity Blade.

Presumably, the reveal does have something to do with the once teased GDC 2011 announcement (the announcement that never happened), as well as the recent hirings, though Bleszinski isn't offering up much else in the clip. Okay, okay -- he also offers that the project is being developed internally at the Cary, NC headquarters for Epic. Otherwise, like you, we'll find out what the big secret is when the VGAs air later this week. Peep the teaser right here in the meantime.

JoystiqEpic's Cliffy B teases 'fresh, new experience' to be revealed at VGAs originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cliff-bleszinskiepicepic-gamesnew-ipspike-vgaspike-vga-2011Mon, 05 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[It's not just you: Epic aware of Infinity Blade 2 issues on iPod Touch, iPad 1]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/02/its-not-just-you-epic-aware-of-infinity-blade-2-issues-on-ipod/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/02/its-not-just-you-epic-aware-of-infinity-blade-2-issues-on-ipod/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/02/its-not-just-you-epic-aware-of-infinity-blade-2-issues-on-ipod/#comments Hey, did you know that Infinity Blade 2 launched on the iOS App Store yesterday? If you didn't, hey, we hear it's pretty good, but if you did and you bought it, you may already be aware of some "issues" the game encounters when played on an iPad 1 or various iPad Touch devices, such as unbearably choppy framerates and outright crashing. Its publisher, Epic Games, is also aware of said issues, and wants you to know that it's working extra hard to get things fixed "ASAP."

VP and co-founder Mark Rein took to the company's forums after initially tweeting out news of the hitches, where he explained that some users on the aforementioned devices are running out of system memory. Apparently the issues weren't discovered in testing because the device must have a "large number of apps installed," which test units weren't equipped with. Regardless, Rein said the company should have a fix coming quickly, so, uh, maybe play some more Infinity Blade 1 for a few days?

JoystiqIt's not just you: Epic aware of Infinity Blade 2 issues on iPod Touch, iPad 1 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Dec 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>app-storeepicepic-gamesinfinity-blade-2iosipadiphonemark-reinmobilepatchupdateFri, 02 Dec 2011 14:30:00 EST