Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Greg Costikyan slams Epic for 'exploitative' work hours ]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/10/greg-costikyan-slams-epic-for-exploitative-work-hours/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/10/greg-costikyan-slams-epic-for-exploitative-work-hours/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/10/greg-costikyan-slams-epic-for-exploitative-work-hours/#comments
Game designer Greg Costikyan has come out swinging against Epic president Michael Capps for supporting what the author and Manifesto Games co-founder describes "exploitation of talent." Capps, who lately has made a habit out of putting his foot in his mouth, reportedly told those attending a leadership meeting by the International Game Developers Association that just putting in a 40-hour work week was utterly senseless. Instead, the exec claimed that devs should accept that toiling for 60 or more hours each week was just part of the "corporate culture."

Costikyan points out that such a stance would be plausible coming from an industry exec, were Capps not also a board member of the IGDA, "an organization," Costikyan writes, "the ostensible purpose of which is to support game developers. Not, you know, to support management dickheads."

There is more to the story as well, including nebulous comments by IGDA chair Jen MacLean that only add fuel to the fire. Costikyan notes the kerfluffle has cost the IGDA some members, though he urges current and future members to join in and "vote to replace anyone on the current board who will not take a clear stand in favor of reasonable working conditions." Fight. The. Power.

JoystiqGreg Costikyan slams Epic for 'exploitative' work hours originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 10 Apr 2009 14:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epicepic-gamesepicgamesexploitexploitationgreg-costikyangregcostikyanmike-cappsFri, 10 Apr 2009 14:09:00 EST<![CDATA[Epic wins North Carolina tech award]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/17/epic-wins-north-carolina-tech-award/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/17/epic-wins-north-carolina-tech-award/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/17/epic-wins-north-carolina-tech-award/#commentsFiled under:


Mark Rein and company will have another memento to share during the office barbeque as Epic has been recognized as the "Top Industry Driven Technology Company of the Year," at least on the Atlantic Seaboard. The accolade was given by the North Carolina Technology Association, or NCTA, as part of the organization's annual NCTA 21 awards ceremony, which applauds technology go-getters in the Tar Heel State.

Other finalists for the award included Parata Systems, PeopleClick and Railinc, companies we imagine lost out due to their flagrant disregard for rag doll physics and courtroom shenanigans.

JoystiqEpic wins North Carolina tech award originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Nov 2008 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>awardsepicepic-gamesepicgamesnctanorth-carolinanorthcarolinaunrealunreal-engineunreal-engine-3unrealengine3Mon, 17 Nov 2008 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Get your daily dose of murder with this Gears of War 2 Multiplayer preview]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/29/get-your-daily-dose-of-murder-with-this-gears-of-war-2-multiplay/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/29/get-your-daily-dose-of-murder-with-this-gears-of-war-2-multiplay/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/29/get-your-daily-dose-of-murder-with-this-gears-of-war-2-multiplay/#commentsFiled under: ,


While most of the "new" gameplay elements and maps discussed in the above preview for Gears of War 2 aren't really "new" to the video game news consuming populous, it's still nice to see some of the game's fresh features in action. The preview is fairly comprehensive -- there's looks at some of the soon-to-be-covered-in-gore locales, the new gametypes (we absolutely cannot wait for meatflag), chainsaw duels, new weapons and executions, and brand new, colorful ways of describing acts of grisly violence from the game's all-growed-up iconic lead designer, Cliff Bleszinski. We can't think of a better way to spend eight and a half minutes of a Sunday afternoon than to watch beefy combatants get halved.

JoystiqGet your daily dose of murder with this Gears of War 2 Multiplayer preview originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 29 Jun 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chainsawcliff-bleszinskicliffybepicepicgamesgears-of-wargears-of-war-2multiplayerpreviewXbox-360Sun, 29 Jun 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Voice of 'Cole Train' suggests November 16 release for Gears of War 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/31/rumor-voice-of-cole-train-suggests-november-16-release-for-ge/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/31/rumor-voice-of-cole-train-suggests-november-16-release-for-ge/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/31/rumor-voice-of-cole-train-suggests-november-16-release-for-ge/#commentsFiled under: ,


We're usually pretty skeptical about rumored release dates as developers and publishers often keep that card close to their chests -- however, we can't help but put our complete faith in a man with a name as awesome as Lester "Mighty Rasta" Speight. Yes, Mr. Rasta, who voiced Gears of War's "Cole Train", recently made an appearance at the TriForce panel at Wizard World to shoot the breeze about the company's line of GoW-related replicas. When asked about the sequel's release date, the TriForce crew remained tight lipped, though Rasta suggested asking him again on November 16.

DS and Wii Fanboy's David Hinkle was at the panel to witness the football player-turned-actor's Q+A session, and hopes to further press Mr. Rasta to discover the accuracy of his claims. Given that it falls in the game's suggested November release window, we wouldn't be surprised if Speight's date was legit.

JoystiqRumor: Voice of 'Cole Train' suggests November 16 release for Gears of War 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 31 May 2008 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>colecoletrainepicepicgamesgears-of-wargears-of-war-2gearsofwar2lesterspeightmighty-rastamightyrastareleasereleasedateXbox-360Sat, 31 May 2008 15:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Gears of War 2 panel: 'hot chicks,' stereotypes, living cover and more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/22/gears-of-war-2-panel-hot-chicks-stereotypes-living-cover-an/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/22/gears-of-war-2-panel-hot-chicks-stereotypes-living-cover-an/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/22/gears-of-war-2-panel-hot-chicks-stereotypes-living-cover-an/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

While megatons were nary to be found at Epic Games' Gears of War 2 panel at this year's New York Comic Con, Epic president Michael Capps and writer Joshua Ortega nonetheless revealed a few tidbits that are sure to pique the interest of the Gears faithful.

Immediately after production on the first Gears wrapped up, the team had to ask itself what it could to make the game "bigger" and "more badass." For example, they saw how people responded to the last-minute addition of the chainsaw. What could they do to improve the chainsaw? Chainsaw duels, perhaps?

Cover, which is admittedly inspired by the oft-forgotten Kill.switch, will also be expanded upon in the sequel. Players have already taken cover behind inanimate objects: rocks, walls, etc. But, what if players could take cover behind moving, living things? What if players could kill a massive enemy and then use it as cover? This ultimately led to the development of massive worm creatures for the sequel.

Continue reading Gears of War 2 panel: 'hot chicks,' stereotypes, living cover and more

JoystiqGears of War 2 panel: 'hot chicks,' stereotypes, living cover and more originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 Apr 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comic-conepicepicgamesgears-of-wargears-of-war-2joshua-ortegajoystiqfeaturesmichael-cappsXbox-360Tue, 22 Apr 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gears of War action figures boxed, grumpy-looking]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/13/gears-of-war-action-figures-boxed-grumpy-looking/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/13/gears-of-war-action-figures-boxed-grumpy-looking/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/13/gears-of-war-action-figures-boxed-grumpy-looking/#commentsFiled under: ,


The long-awaited (but never viewed) first salvo of Gears of War action figures should be landing in your neighborhood Hot Topics and comic book shops in the next few weeks -- as a special teaser, manufacturer NECA released a plethora of images of the four burly, sailor-mouthed characters featured in the first series of man-dolls: Marcus Fenix, Augustus "Cole Train" Cole, Locust Drone, and everyone's favorite, Locust Sniper. We can't even imagine the kind of brutal, testosterone-enriched tea parties we're going to hold once we obtain these tiny gunhavers -- especially when our supply of Earl Grey begins to dwindle.

Gallery: Gears of War Action Figures



[Via X3F]

JoystiqGears of War action figures boxed, grumpy-looking originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 13 Apr 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionfiguresepicepicgamesfpsgears-of-wargearsofwarnecatea-partyteapartyXbox-360Sun, 13 Apr 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC08: Microsoft and Epic announce Gears of War 2 for Nov. '08]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/gdc08-microsoft-and-epic-announce-gears-of-war-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/gdc08-microsoft-and-epic-announce-gears-of-war-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/gdc08-microsoft-and-epic-announce-gears-of-war-2/#commentsFiled under: ,


In what could only be considered as good news for the franchise's cult following, Microsoft and Epic Games have announced their intention to give Gears of War another go. Despite only scraping by with a couple of million units sold, Microsoft is determined to help the motley bunch of macho marines break into the niche shooter market with an Xbox 360 sequel, Gears of War 2.

The game was officially announced by Epic's CliffyB during Microsoft's GDC keynote entitled, "A Future Wide Open: Unleashing the Creative Commnunity ... and then give them Chainsaws." The game will be coming exclusively to the Xbox 360 in November, 2008. We'll bring you more information as soon as we can get it.

JoystiqGDC08: Microsoft and Epic announce Gears of War 2 for Nov. '08 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Feb 2008 14:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BreakingNewsCliffyBEpicEpic-GamesEpicGamesGDCGDC08Gears-of-WarGears-of-War-2GearsofWarMark-ReinMicrosoft-Game-StudiosXbox-360Wed, 20 Feb 2008 14:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Gears of War 2 graces GamePro cover]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/04/gears-of-war-2-graces-gamepro-cover/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/04/gears-of-war-2-graces-gamepro-cover/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/04/gears-of-war-2-graces-gamepro-cover/#commentsFiled under: ,


With GDC less than two weeks away, the latest issue of GamePro magazine appears to have coverage of the as-yet-unannounced Gears of War 2. The cover of the March issue was recently unveiled, and while the featured story is Rainbow Six Vegas 2, the cover contains two references to coverage of the much-hinted but never confirmed Gears sequel.

Despite the twice-over placement on the front cover, the announcement of the issue makes no mention of any Gears of War coverage, leaving us a bit skeptical of what the Gears 2 content exactly is. An unconfirmed report from the NeoGAF forums indicates that the content is purely speculative, guessing at a release date and possible features like improved matchmaking.

Add this to the fact that legitimate Gear of War 2 info would be far more cover-worthy than Rainbow Six Vegas 2, and the likelihood is that the Gears placement on the front cover is nothing more than an attempt to sell more issues. We'll leave Gears 2 speculation to accidental slip-ups and Amazon pre-order pages, thankyouverymuch.

Update: Epic Games VP Mark Rein has confirmed our suspicions, telling Firing Squad that any preview article hinted at by Gamepro's cover would be "pure nonsense." Ouch!

[Via Eurogamer]

JoystiqGears of War 2 graces GamePro cover originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Feb 2008 09:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epicepic-gamesepicgamesgameprogears-of-wargears-of-war-2gearsofwargearsofwar2microsoftXbox-360Mon, 04 Feb 2008 09:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Watch this space, Epic Games plans to double in size]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/14/watch-this-space-epic-games-plans-to-double-in-size/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/14/watch-this-space-epic-games-plans-to-double-in-size/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/14/watch-this-space-epic-games-plans-to-double-in-size/#commentsFiled under: ,


Having tired of rubbing actual elbows with fellow teammates, Epic Games' always verbose VP Mark Rein has confessed that he and his squad of developers have "pretty much run out of space" in the company's North Carolina base of operations, and that plans are well underway for an expansion to "at least" double the facility's current size. According to a report by North Carolina's News Observer, the devs coughed up a cool $1.57 million for the new office space, which will be positioned on a five-acre lot adjacent to Epic's current 31,000-square foot HQ.

Headcount at Epic currently stands at 94, with current growth of around one new employee a month expected to continue for the next couple of years. So with all of this added space, will the developers get to spread out, and maybe quit knocking over each others' Mt. Dew as they reach for their mouse? Unlikely, as the report notes that the new facility will instead be largely used to house the numerous play testers that visit Epic, rather than have to rent out space down the street. We understand the need completely, though until the devs get additional space of their own we'd suggest judicious application of lids.

JoystiqWatch this space, Epic Games plans to double in size originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Jan 2008 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epicepic gamesEpicGamesgears of warGearsOfWarmark reinMarkReinPCplay testPlayTestunrealUnreal Tournament 3UnrealTournament3ut3Mon, 14 Jan 2008 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Marcus Fenix looks good in LEGOs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/04/marcus-fenix-looks-good-in-legos/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/04/marcus-fenix-looks-good-in-legos/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/04/marcus-fenix-looks-good-in-legos/#commentsFiled under: ,

Those overly creative LEGO building fellas over Brickshelf did it again, this time using their finely honed talents to create a Gears Marcus Fenix figure. Just look at the detail on the armor, the accurate representation of the Lancer and how perfectly crafted the model is. This little masterpiece is awe inspiring, simply fanboy'alicious and makes us jealous of the talent those guys over at Brickshelf possess. Note to whoever owns this LEGO Marcus, we'd so pay to have one of these to place on our desk high atop Fanboy Towers. So ... eBay anyone?

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqMarcus Fenix looks good in LEGOs originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 Sep 2007 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epicgamesgearsofwargowmarcusfenixTue, 04 Sep 2007 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gears Hidden Fronts is now a free download]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/03/gears-hidden-fronts-is-now-a-free-download/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/03/gears-hidden-fronts-is-now-a-free-download/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/03/gears-hidden-fronts-is-now-a-free-download/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We just wanted to remind everyone that the Hidden Fronts map pack for Gears of War is now a free download off the Xbox Live Marketplace. The Hidden Fronts pack includes four maps (Garden, Process, Bullet Marsh and Subway) and was previously available for 800 Microsoft points when it released back in May. But now it's free, so you have absolutely no reason not to get back into the game and earn the game's final 250 Gamerscore. We'll see you online playing some new Hidden Fronts map pack goodness, have fun and stay away from those Kryll.

JoystiqGears Hidden Fronts is now a free download originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 03 Sep 2007 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epicgamesgearsofwargowhiddenfrontsxblmMon, 03 Sep 2007 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gears Of War Hidden Fronts free this Labor Day]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/31/gears-of-war-hidden-fronts-free-this-labor-day/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/31/gears-of-war-hidden-fronts-free-this-labor-day/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/31/gears-of-war-hidden-fronts-free-this-labor-day/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Microsoft has announced that the Gears of War "Hidden Fronts" map pack will become a free download starting this Labor Day (which is Monday for our international friends). The map pack will officially become free starting at 2:00AM PT September 2nd. It should be noted that this isn't a timed promotion akin to the XBLA price drops this weekend, but rather a permanent change. So, if for some reason you still don't want the map pack on Monday, you can always pick it up some other time, free of charge. The "Hidden Fronts" map pack includes 4 maps: Subway, Process, Garden, and Bullet Marsh. If you'd like a refresher on what these maps contain, you can view our rundown after the break.

Continue reading Gears Of War Hidden Fronts free this Labor Day

JoystiqGears Of War Hidden Fronts free this Labor Day originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 31 Aug 2007 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epicepicgamesgearsofwargowmgsmicrosoftgamestudiosFri, 31 Aug 2007 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Epic dedicated to user mods for 360 UTIII]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/16/epic-dedicated-to-user-mods-for-360-utiii/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/16/epic-dedicated-to-user-mods-for-360-utiii/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/16/epic-dedicated-to-user-mods-for-360-utiii/#commentsFiled under:

In a response concerning his earlier comments about Blu-Ray capacity, Epic's Mark Rein has once again commented on bringing user created content to Unreal Tournament III for Xbox 360. First, he noted that praising Blu-Ray's capacity was in no way meant as a slight to the 360's DVD format, adding that any extra content could easily be made available for download. Speaking about user created mods, Rein noted, "When it comes to user created mods on the 360 - we will work with Microsoft to find a way to support them." He added that Epic doesn't know what the solution is at this time, and that it will have to wait until after the PS3 and PC versions ships (as well as Gears of War for PC). After that (and some much deserved R&R), Rein promises that Epic will tackle the user created content problem and "figure it out."

[Via 1UP]

JoystiqEpic dedicated to user mods for 360 UTIII originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Aug 2007 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epicepicgamesmarkreinmidwayunrealtournament3unrealtournamentiiiut3utiiiThu, 16 Aug 2007 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft opening up to user content]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/15/microsoft-opening-up-to-user-content/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/15/microsoft-opening-up-to-user-content/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/15/microsoft-opening-up-to-user-content/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Though traditionally a controlling mother when it comes to its infant Xbox Live online service, Microsoft hinted today at easing up its sweaty-palmed handholding. Speaking at Gamefest 2007 (via 1UP), the company discussed the Xbox Live Server Platform (XLSP) that companies can use to deliver content, provided they take full responsibility for monitoring the content.

When suggested that one might use this to create a PC level editor that would make games for an Xbox 360 title, Microsoft Software Design Engineer Zsolt Mathe said, "Even though nobody has done that, I would highly recommend that."

Epic Games Vice President Mark Rein had previously stated that Xbox Live's resistance to user-created maps and mods was responsible in part to the delay of the Unreal Tournament 3 for Xbox 360. Looks like XLSP will be the system that expedites the version release.

The catch is that Microsoft must approve the game maker to use XLSP. We imagine it's kind of like the film Chasing Liberty, where the President of the US gives his over-protected daughter extra freedom to travel Europe with an undercover secret service agent constantly keeping watch. In this adaptation, Microsoft is played by the reliable Stark Sands, Mark Rein is captured brilliantly by the venerable and lovable Mandy Moore and XLSP is portrayed by the hunky Matthew Goode ... what? It was a good film, don't look at us like that!

[Via X3F]

JoystiqMicrosoft opening up to user content originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Aug 2007 22:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epicepicgamesmarkreinmicrosoftunrealtournament3Xbox-360xboxlivexboxliveserverplatformxlspWed, 15 Aug 2007 22:31:00 EST<![CDATA[MS softens stance on user created content for 360 [update 1]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/15/ms-softens-stance-on-user-created-content-for-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/15/ms-softens-stance-on-user-created-content-for-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/15/ms-softens-stance-on-user-created-content-for-360/#commentsFiled under:


Coming from Gamefest 2007, it looks like Microsoft might be changing its tone on user created content. Longtime followers of the Xbox 360 will know that user created content has long been sought after by Microsoft, though it is somewhat hindered by the fact that all downloadable content has to be cleared by Microsoft before it can be distributed via Xbox Live Marketplace. At Gamefest, it was revealed that developers can circumvent this restriction by using what is called Xbox Live Server Platform (XLSP). Using XLSP, publishers can provide content directly from their own servers instead of Marketplace. Of course, such publishers would be solely responsible for all content delivered by these means. Also, use of XLSP by any publisher must be approved by Microsoft. During a panel at Gamefest, someone even asked if it would be possible to create a PC level editor that built levels playable on an Xbox 360. In response, Microsoft Software Design Engineer Zsolt Mathe said, "Even though nobody has done that, I would highly recommend that."

Given Epic's recent lamentations concerning user generated content for Unreal Tournament III on the Xbox 360, perhaps XLSP is the answer.

[Via BeyondUnreal. Thanks, Dave]

Update: 1UP incorrectly states that XLSP stands for Xbox Live Silver Platform. DXL540 informs us that it is in fact Xbox Live Server Platform, which makes a bit more sense. Furthermore, DXL540 sends us an SEC filing from Activision detailing what's possible with XLSP.

JoystiqMS softens stance on user created content for 360 [update 1] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Aug 2007 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epicepicgamesmidwayunrealtournament3unrealtournamentiiiut3utiiiWed, 15 Aug 2007 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Unreal Tournament 3 may possibly have more maps, thanks to Blu-ray]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/15/unreal-tournament-3-will-have-more-maps-thanks-to-blu-ray/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/15/unreal-tournament-3-will-have-more-maps-thanks-to-blu-ray/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/15/unreal-tournament-3-will-have-more-maps-thanks-to-blu-ray/#commentsFiled under: ,

Much like how George Bluth Sr. was having a love affair with his ice cream sandwich, Mark Rein of Epic Games has admitted his feelings toward the new Blu-ray format. Don't worry, his feelings are positive and returned in full. Speaking about Unreal Tournament 3, Mark Rein talked of the advantage the PS3 version may have over the 360: "we may have fewer maps on the 360 version...Blu-Ray has definitely given us a lot of legroom." Boo-yah, Blu-ray!

Rein wasn't quite finished there, however. He even thought ahead to Unreal Tournament 4, saying "If you think down the road, well maybe the next UT beyond this one, on Blu-ray disc, we might fill the whole damn disc with all the cool stuff the mod makers make." We'd be very excited to see that, really! So there's even more proof that not only is Blu-ray a handy asset, but it'll give us all more stuff down the line.

[Update: Changed title to more accurately reflect content.]

JoystiqUnreal Tournament 3 may possibly have more maps, thanks to Blu-ray originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Aug 2007 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blu-rayepicgamesmarkreinunrealtournament3Wed, 15 Aug 2007 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Silicon Knights responds to Epic's counter-suit]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/10/silicon-knights-responds-to-epics-counter-suit/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/10/silicon-knights-responds-to-epics-counter-suit/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/10/silicon-knights-responds-to-epics-counter-suit/#commentsFiled under:

The epic (we just had to) legal battle between Epic Games and Silicon Knights gets a new chapter today, with Silicon Knights responding to Mark Rein's comments and Epic's filing of a counter-suit. In a statement released by Silicon Knights' attorney, they "don't think Epic's counterclaim has any merit" and that the financial setbacks they've incurred are "millions of dollars more than what Epic claims its damages are in its counterclaim". Silicon Knights went on to calm the nervous jitters of Too Human fanboys saying that "the lawsuit itself will not have any effect on Too Human" and "that through our own sweat and toil, we have created a new and better game engine". Man, if this little legal tiff gets any juicier we just might be willing to purchase the lawsuit's courtroom video off the Marketplace.

JoystiqSilicon Knights responds to Epic's counter-suit originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 10 Aug 2007 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epicepicgamessiliconknightsFri, 10 Aug 2007 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Epic takes on Silicon Knights' lawsuit]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/09/epic-takes-on-silicon-knights-lawsuit/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/09/epic-takes-on-silicon-knights-lawsuit/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/09/epic-takes-on-silicon-knights-lawsuit/#commentsFiled under:

The metaphorical legal mud is flying today with Epic Games' Mark Rein commenting on and taking action against Silicon Knights and their lawsuit over the Unreal Engine 3.

This morning, Rein sent out a statement condemning the lawsuit Silicon Knights brought against Epic a few weeks back stating that they (Epic) "did nothing wrong" and that they are "committed to fully defending against Silicon Knights' unfounded allegations". Rein further expressed Epic's anger with the situation saying that "Silicon Knights wants to take Epic's Licensed Technology, pay nothing for it, and use it any way it pleases" and as a result are counter-suing Silicon Knights. Epic feels their counter-suit is justifiable and claim that Silicon Knights is accountable for breach of contract, copyright infringement, misappropriation of trade secrets among other things and are looking for compensation no less that $650,000. Let's just say Rein and the Epic gang aren't going down without a fight and things are going to get a lot hotter before they cool down. Fight!

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqEpic takes on Silicon Knights' lawsuit originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Aug 2007 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epicepicgamesmarkreinsiliconknightsThu, 09 Aug 2007 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Keyboard and mouse support for UT3 PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/03/keyboard-and-mouse-support-for-ut3-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/03/keyboard-and-mouse-support-for-ut3-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/03/keyboard-and-mouse-support-for-ut3-ps3/#commentsFiled under: ,


Epic Games Vice President Mark Rein has confirmed on the official forums that Unreal Tournament 3 for the PlayStation 3 will support keyboard and mouse.

"[Designer Steve Polge] is confident we are doing it in a way that will be balanced without feeling "gimped" for either side," he said. Rein also added that there will be options to "allow people to choose whether or not they want to allow mixed controller vs. keyboard/mouse games or not." In our recent interview with Rein, he was still unsure if this feature would be implemented.

Will the battle for the best first-person shooter controls -- gamepad or keyboard and mouse -- now be fought locally? Is this further evidence that Epic will implement the PS3 and PC cross-platform multiplayer? Our fingers are crossed.

Gallery: Unreal Tournament III (PS3)



[Via PS3 Fanboy]

JoystiqKeyboard and mouse support for UT3 PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Aug 2007 20:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epicEpicGamesPCPS3unrealUnrealTournamentunrealtournament3ut3Fri, 03 Aug 2007 20:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Mark Rein on Halo 3, 360 UTIII mods]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/01/mark-rein-on-halo-3-360-utiii-mods/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/01/mark-rein-on-halo-3-360-utiii-mods/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/01/mark-rein-on-halo-3-360-utiii-mods/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Remember the CVG interview in which Epic VP Mark Rein stated that Microsoft's E3 showing hurt Halo 3? Now the first part of the interview has been published in its entirety, giving a further look at Rein's opinions. One of the more interesting tidbits, after his spiel about the Halo 3 showing, he goes on to admit that Halo 3 will break all of the sales records set by Gears of War. According to Rein, "We've had a nice nine, ten months of being the record holder, and now we're going to get our ass kicked. In a good way." Good form, old man, good form. Rein goes on to discuss the various versions of Unreal Tournament III and Gears of War PC and the fate of its exclusive content (hint).

Also worth nothing, in the second part of the interview, which has yet to be published, Rein admits that the reason for the delay of the Xbox 360 version of Unreal Tournament III is that Epic has yet to sort out how user created mods will work on 360. Rein notes that in the "worst case scenario" Epic will submit user created mods to Microsoft for certification and offer them as downloadable content. Rein adds that, "hopefully between now and whenever it is we ship on Xbox 360, we figure out a user-managed way to do it." Our fingers are crossed.

Read -- Mark Rein interview, part 1
Read -- Epic struggles with UTIII mods on 360

JoystiqMark Rein on Halo 3, 360 UTIII mods originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Aug 2007 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epicepicgamesgearsofwargearsofwarpchalo3markreinunrealtournament3unrealtournamentiiiut3utiiiWed, 01 Aug 2007 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mod restrictions holding back UT3 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/01/mod-restrictions-holding-back-ut3-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/01/mod-restrictions-holding-back-ut3-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/01/mod-restrictions-holding-back-ut3-360/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Sony's timed exclusive with Unreal Tournament 3 looks to have happened in part thanks to Microsoft. According to Epic Games' Mark Rein (via CVG), unresolved issues with downloadable user mods on the Xbox 360 led the developer to delay the shooter until "some time after the new year." Rein also confirmed this news to Joystiq in an interview to be published tomorrow.

Because of the closed nature of the Xbox Live network, setting up a system for PC users to share mods with Xbox 360 users would be challenging, especially since there is no cross-platform connectivity via Microsoft's Games for Windows Live. "And Microsoft's got a very busy Christmas schedule... We just couldn't get enough attention from them to solve that problem," he told MCV.

"Worst case scenario would be Epic bringing popular mods onto the 360 and putting them through the certification process," Rein told us. "Because that's the way it works today. Or selling them in Marketplace, or convincing Microsoft to let us give some away for free," he said.

"That's the worst case scenario. Hopefully it will be better than that, but we know nothing yet about how that's going to work and that's why we're totally concentrating on the PS3 right now, in terms of consoles," he said.

Gallery: Unreal Tournament III (PS3)

JoystiqMod restrictions holding back UT3 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Aug 2007 12:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epicepicgamesmarkreinmodsPCunrealunrealtournament3ut3Xbox-360Wed, 01 Aug 2007 12:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Rein says Halo 3's E3 showing hurt Bungie]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/29/rein-says-halo-3s-e3-showing-hurt-bungie/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/29/rein-says-halo-3s-e3-showing-hurt-bungie/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/29/rein-says-halo-3s-e3-showing-hurt-bungie/#commentsFiled under: ,

Epic Games' very vocal and opinionated Mark Rein doesn't think Bungie should have shown Halo 3's E3 campaign trailer and believes it hurt them more than it helped. In a chat with CVG, Rein said that Halo 3 didn't win any best of E3 awards, because Microsoft didn't give the media any hands on time with the game stating that;

"I'm sure if they'd actually had a big Halo 3 presence, if Microsoft had set up eight machines or 12 or 16 machines so you could sit and play it, it would have won all kinds of awards. But they don't need to because, like me, everyone's already placed their order... So I think that worked against them at E3."

Hmm, interesting logic we guess. But Mark's comments further confuse us when he later tells CVG that it was a "smart move" to highlight other Xbox 360 titles and limit the amount of Halo 3 exposure. Hmm, didn't Mark just say he thought it was a bad move to not show a bunch of Halo 3? Well, now we're just confused Mr. Rein.

In the end, we like to think that the Halo 3 E3 trailer was good times and helped fans get a feel for what the campaign has to offer. But at least we can both agree that we don't have to be sold on Halo 3 and are buying it no matter what.

JoystiqRein says Halo 3's E3 showing hurt Bungie originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 29 Jul 2007 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bungieepicepicgameshalo3markreinSun, 29 Jul 2007 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gears of War action figures announced]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/26/gears-of-war-action-figures-announced/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/26/gears-of-war-action-figures-announced/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/26/gears-of-war-action-figures-announced/#commentsFiled under: ,


NECA has announced a new partnership with Epic Games, in which it will produce a new line of Gears of War collectibles. Said collectibles are set to include action figures, busts, dioramas, and even "prop" replicas (full size Lancer anyone?). The toys collectibles are expected to be available in 2008, just in time for a possible sequel to the 360's breakout hit. An interesting tidbit in the press release is that NECA has acquired the license for Gears of War and "any potential sequels" to the game, adding fuel to such speculations. For those who are interested, NECA has produced many video game related collectibles, including toys based on Resident Evil, Hitman, Tomb Raider, and an upcoming line of Castlevania toys. No further information, such as which specific Gears of War toys will be made or how much they will cost, has been revealed.

JoystiqGears of War action figures announced originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Jul 2007 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epicepicgamesgearsofwargowmgsmicrosoftgamestudiosnecatoysThu, 26 Jul 2007 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Chainsaw or curb stomp Velvet Revolver this Friday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/23/chainsaw-or-curb-stomp-velvet-revolver-this-friday/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/23/chainsaw-or-curb-stomp-velvet-revolver-this-friday/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/23/chainsaw-or-curb-stomp-velvet-revolver-this-friday/#commentsFiled under: , ,

July's Artist of the Month Velvet Revolver will be partaking in the Game with Fame festivities this Friday by playing some Gears of War. This Friday, July 27th from 10:00PM - Midnight eastern the Velvet Revolver rockers will be online playing Gears, so we advise sending a friend request to "GWFVelvet" for your chance to play with the band. Once your friend request is sent, sit back, wait for a chance to play and ponder how you'll be finishing off the band. We already know how we're taking out Slash as our chainsaw is already greased and ready to rip.

JoystiqChainsaw or curb stomp Velvet Revolver this Friday originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Jul 2007 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epicepicgamesgearsofwargowgwfvelvetrevolverxboxliveMon, 23 Jul 2007 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[By golly it's a Gears of War soundboard]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/22/by-golly-its-a-gears-of-war-soundboard/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/22/by-golly-its-a-gears-of-war-soundboard/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/22/by-golly-its-a-gears-of-war-soundboard/#commentsFiled under: ,

For those of us who are involved in the art of prank phone calls or simply enjoy hearing video game character quotes we've unearthed a Gears of War soundboard for you to enjoy. The Gears soundboard features multiplayer and campaign quotes from the Locusts and the COG killing crew including Marcus, Dom, Baird, Cole and Carmine. Experience a locust growl, hear the ear pleasing sounds of Baird exclaim "shit yeah!" and the multiple variations of Marcus' "nice". Give the soundboard a listen and be sure to show your friends, because this little online doodad will give you instant Gears cred. Honest.

[Via Gearheads of War]

JoystiqBy golly it's a Gears of War soundboard originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 22 Jul 2007 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epicepicgamesgearsofwargowsoundboardSun, 22 Jul 2007 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Unreal Tournament 3 not using Games for Windows Live]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/20/unreal-tournament-3-not-using-games-for-windows-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/20/unreal-tournament-3-not-using-games-for-windows-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/20/unreal-tournament-3-not-using-games-for-windows-live/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Xbox 360 users who want to shoot up their PC counterparts in Unreal Tournament 3 are out of luck -- Epic vice president Mark Rein has confirmed on the developer's forums that the first-person shooter will not use Games For Windows Live and will therefore not feature cross-platform play between Microsoft's console and the PC.

Rein said that they have not decided about cross-platform play between PC and the PlayStation 3. "We're not 100% sure that users want that feature but if we get time we'll play around with it and see how it works," he said. Sony's console will have the ability to share PC mods, so the the logistics of PC vs. PS3 play shouldn't be too hard.

No release date has been given but Unreal Tournament 3 has been confirmed as a timed exclusive for the PS3.

Gallery: Unreal Tournament III (PS3)

JoystiqUnreal Tournament 3 not using Games for Windows Live originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Jul 2007 20:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epicepicgamesmarkreinPCPS3unrealunrealtournamentunrealtournament3Xbox-360Fri, 20 Jul 2007 20:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Epic unsure of cross-platform play with Unreal Tournament 3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/20/epic-unsure-of-cross-platform-play-with-unreal-tournament-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/20/epic-unsure-of-cross-platform-play-with-unreal-tournament-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/20/epic-unsure-of-cross-platform-play-with-unreal-tournament-3/#commentsOne of the main reasons why Epic decided to stick Unreal Tournament 3 exclusively on the PS3 until the end of the year (we think Sony meant fiscal year, so really, until the end of March) was because of Sony's willingness to allow modifications of the game via the PC build. They call these "mods" in the crazy land of hardcore gamers, or so we've heard. It's sort of a mystical place -- a place no one has ever truly been here in Consolevania. Even with the promise of having mods on the PS3 version of the game, Epic has not decided to allow cross-platform play yet.

Everything isn't dark and gloomy, though. Mark Rein of Epic gives us hope that they will probably consider it in the future: "We're not 100% sure that users want that feature but if we get time we'll play around with it and see how it works. In the mean time we plan to be able to serve the PS3 from PC servers so that should help us gets lots of great servers going." No word on any cross-platform play between the PS3 and 360, let alone the Games for Windows LIVE service. Just the PS3 and PC at this point. Would you guys like cross-platform play, since the PS3 version does, in fact, support keyboards and mice?

JoystiqEpic unsure of cross-platform play with Unreal Tournament 3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Jul 2007 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EpicEpicGamesUnrealTournament3UT3Fri, 20 Jul 2007 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Silicon Knights gets sue happy with Epic]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/20/silicon-knights-gets-sue-happy-with-epic/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/20/silicon-knights-gets-sue-happy-with-epic/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/20/silicon-knights-gets-sue-happy-with-epic/#commentsFiled under:

Too Human developer Silicon Knights is not happy with Epic Games or their Unreal Engine 3 and when they get angry, they like to sue. Silicon Knights recently filed a lawsuit in a North Carolina district court stating that Epic Games breached their contract by not supplying final engine code for the Xbox 360 and claims that Epic used licensee fees to promote its own games while sabotaging their licensee's projects. According to Silicon Knights, Epic was supposed to supply the final Xbox 360 code for the Unreal Engine 3 six months after the launch of the console (around March 2006), but failed to and only got the code to them in November 2006 with no guidance on how to implement the new code. Epic flat out denies such wrong doings and vows to fight the lawsuit. We ask, can't we all just get along?

[Via XboxNowOnline]

JoystiqSilicon Knights gets sue happy with Epic originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Jul 2007 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epicepicgamessiliconknightsFri, 20 Jul 2007 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gears of War will be roadie running onto Macs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/17/gears-of-war-will-be-roadie-running-onto-macs/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/17/gears-of-war-will-be-roadie-running-onto-macs/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/17/gears-of-war-will-be-roadie-running-onto-macs/#commentsFiled under: ,

We thought we heard the extent of how far Gears of War was willing to stray from its Xbox 360 roots, but now we're hearing about an even further departure. In an interview with Game Head's Geoff Keighley, Mark Rein talked up Unreal Tournament 3 and Gears of War and accidentally let the news slip that both games were headed to the Mac platform. Rein confirmed Gears' Mac-bound status when answering Keighley stating that "yes, Gears is going to come to the Mac and so is UT". The news was not followed by a release date or how far in development the Mac versions are.

Anyone willing to bet that Gears Mac will have even more content than Gears PC all of which won't be available to 360 owners? Anyone? Nobody? Shucks ...

JoystiqGears of War will be roadie running onto Macs originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Jul 2007 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleepicepic gamesEpicGamesgearsgears of warGearsOfWargowmacTue, 17 Jul 2007 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New GoW PC content not coming to the 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/13/new-gow-pc-content-not-coming-to-the-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/13/new-gow-pc-content-not-coming-to-the-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/13/new-gow-pc-content-not-coming-to-the-360/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The Advanced Media Network sat down with Epic's Mark Rein and Cliffy B to chat about their big E3 announcements and learned some sad news about the new Gears of War PC content. When questioned about whether or not the new campaign missions or multiplayer maps announced for the PC version would be headed to the Xbox 360, Rein said it was "unlikely [that] we will bring that content to 360". Cliffy B further emphasized their doubt by stating that "if we didn't have any sort of exclusive on the PC, why would people buy the PC version?". The Epic crew explained that bringing the PC content over to the 360 would be an extremely time consuming task and that they're currently focused on other projects like Unreal Tournament 3.

Being the Gears fan that I am it's hard to hear that new, exciting multiplayer AND campaign content will be available, but not for 360 owners. And no, there's no way I'm personally buying a beefy computer to run Gears of War PC just to experience the new content. No matter how you slice the news it sucks for 360 owners and Gears enthusiasts ... it's simple as that. Now, I'm going to go cry myself to sleep.

[Thanks, Jason S]

JoystiqNew GoW PC content not coming to the 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Jul 2007 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3e307epicepic gaemsepic gamesEpicGaemsEpicGamesgearsgears of wargears of war pcGearsOfWarGearsOfWarPcgowgow pcGowPcFri, 13 Jul 2007 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Epic Games, Unreal Tournament 3 sign exclusivity deal with Sony]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/11/epic-games-unreal-tournament-3-sign-exclusivity-deal-with-sony/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/11/epic-games-unreal-tournament-3-sign-exclusivity-deal-with-sony/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/11/epic-games-unreal-tournament-3-sign-exclusivity-deal-with-sony/#commentsFiled under: ,


Right alongside NC Soft, Epic signed a multi-stage exclusivity agreement with Sony to optimize use of the Unreal Engine 3 for the PS3. The big idea behind this was Unreal Tournament 3. Namely, making it a PS3 exclusive for this financial year. That's right -- the devs responsible for Cogs of Battle want to try their hand at making the PS3 the leading platform for their hot, hot, hotly anticipated UT3. What's really impressive about this announcement isn't necessarily the exclusivity agreement, but the fact Jack Tretton promised us the ability to bring user-created PC mods into the console version of the game via the PlayStation Network. Homebrew is happening, little by little, and we're very happy about that.

JoystiqEpic Games, Unreal Tournament 3 sign exclusivity deal with Sony originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Jul 2007 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e307epic gamesEpicGamesplaystation 3Playstation3ps3sonyunreal tournament 3UnrealTournament3Wed, 11 Jul 2007 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Unreal Tournament 3 to be timed PS3 exclusive]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/11/unreal-tournament-3-to-be-timed-ps3-exclusive/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/11/unreal-tournament-3-to-be-timed-ps3-exclusive/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/11/unreal-tournament-3-to-be-timed-ps3-exclusive/#commentsFiled under: ,


See the awesomeness that is the game trailer above? It's Unreal Tournament 3 and fellow Xbox 360 fanboys we'll have to wait a little longer than our PS3 brothers to play. Sony and Epic Games just announced that UT3 will be a timed exclusive for the PS3 platform which will launch this November. But the wait will be short lived, because the game will be available on the Xbox 360 platform early 2008. Epic is obviously feeling love from everyone this generation and it looks like Sony played the right hand this time. Sorry fanboys, this is one game the PS3 will get before us ... consider it a fluke.

[Thanks, DjDATZ]

JoystiqUnreal Tournament 3 to be timed PS3 exclusive originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Jul 2007 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3e307epicepic gamesEpicGamesmicrosoftplaystation 3Playstation3ps3sonyunreal tournament 3UnrealTournament3ut3Wed, 11 Jul 2007 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gears of War PC official, not Vista exclusive]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/11/gears-of-war-pc-official-not-vista-exclusive/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/11/gears-of-war-pc-official-not-vista-exclusive/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/11/gears-of-war-pc-official-not-vista-exclusive/#commentsFiled under: , ,


It just not a gaming event without a little CliffyB. Lo and behold, he made an appearance at Microsoft's E3 press conference to announce (you guessed it) Gears of War PC. In an announcement that surprised precisely zero people, the game was made official. While the announcement itself wasn't earth-shattering, there were definitely a few choice nuggets of new info worth noting. Cliffy did honor the conference crowd with a quick demo of the game, showing off some of the PC exclusive features. Naturally, the game makes use of Games for Windows Live, which Cliffy demonstrated by playing with a buddy. He also revealed that GOW PC will feature new single player chapters, new multiplayer modes, new multiplayer maps, and an entirely new set of achievements totalling 1000 points. In another surprising revelation, Cliffy announced that the game would be shipping for both Windows Vista and XP. Given the hoopla surrounding the Vista-only releases of both Halo 2 and Shadowrun, it looks like Microsoft may be trying to make things write with PC gamers.

Of course, Gears of War PC does raise a few questions. Will the new content be offered to 360 Gears of War fans? Will cross-platform play be available? We tried to get answers from Microsoft, but for now it remains a mystery.

JoystiqGears of War PC official, not Vista exclusive originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Jul 2007 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>E3epicepicgamesgearsofwargearsofwarpcgowgowpcmgsmicrosoftgamestudiosWed, 11 Jul 2007 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gears of War PC montage video leaked [update 1]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/gears-of-war-pc-montage-video-leaked/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/gears-of-war-pc-montage-video-leaked/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/gears-of-war-pc-montage-video-leaked/#commentsFiled under: ,

Looks like someone made a boo boo. Those silly cats over at GameVideos.com posted a video entitled "Gears of War PC 'E3 Action' montage" and quickly pulled it. But fret not fanboys, because Quellex saved the video and posted it on YouTube for everyone to enjoy. But before you take a look at this leaked Gears PC montage be warned that it may make your inner fanboy scream with anger and disgust. Why? Because the video showcases what looks to be not only new multiplayer maps and additional campaign missions, but it also showcases a boss battle with a Brumak. Yup, that same Brumak that didn't make it into the 360 version of Gears. Hopefully there's more to this story that'll come out of E3, something along the lines of all the new additional PC content being available for free to Xbox 360 owners. Otherwise we shun you Epic and your PC content ... we want to fight Brumaks too!

Update 1: We've removed our link to the YouTube video at GameVideos.com's request, but now that the giant cat Brumak's out of the bag, it's gonna be awfully tough to get him back in.

[Via NeoGAF]

JoystiqGears of War PC montage video leaked [update 1] originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Jul 2007 20:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3e307epicepic gamesEpicGamesgears of warGearsOfWargowFri, 06 Jul 2007 20:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Cliffy B's adolescent story inspires comedic skit]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/cliffy-bs-adolescent-story-inspires-comedic-skit/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/cliffy-bs-adolescent-story-inspires-comedic-skit/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/cliffy-bs-adolescent-story-inspires-comedic-skit/#commentsFiled under:


We knew Cliffy B liked the spotlight, but we didn't know he also enjoyed comedic improv. The other night, during a DSI Comedy Theatre performance in North Carolina, the improv crew invited Cliffy B on stage to tell of his childhood, his Nintendo roots, and how badass he thought the Nintendo Power Glove was back in the day. As expected, Cliff's storytelling is pretty darn good, but the improv crews' rendition of his story leaves us scratching our heads a little. No matter, it's Cliffy B taking the stage, so be amazed and give the storytelling and improv a watch. Video ever so conveniently embedded above.

[Via Digg]

JoystiqCliffy B's adolescent story inspires comedic skit originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Jul 2007 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cliffy bCliffyBepicepic gamesEpicGamesgears of warGearsOfWarFri, 06 Jul 2007 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Gears of War soundtrack drops July 31st]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/gears-of-war-soundtrack-drops-july-31st/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/gears-of-war-soundtrack-drops-july-31st/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/gears-of-war-soundtrack-drops-july-31st/#commentsFiled under: ,

Gears fanboys will be excited to know that the sweet, sweet sounds of our beloved Gears of War will soon be lovingly lasered onto a piece of media plastic. The official Gears of War Soundtrack was announced yesterday and will hit major retailers and be available online July 31st. The CD will feature 28 musical tracks that will chronologically take listeners through Gears' campaign and feature the Northwest Symphonia orchestra. Think of the soundtrack as a musical version of the whole "destroyed beauty" motif. Complete list of all 28 tracks are viewable after the break including our favorites "I Will Kryll You" and "Running With Boomers".

Continue reading Gears of War soundtrack drops July 31st

JoystiqGears of War soundtrack drops July 31st originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Jul 2007 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cdepicepic gamesEpicGamesgearsgears of wargears of war soundtrackGearsOfWarGearsOfWarSoundtrackgowgow soundtrackGowSoundtracksoundtrackFri, 06 Jul 2007 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Unreal Tournament 3 to ship with dozens of maps]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/05/unreal-tournament-3-to-ship-with-dozens-of-maps/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/05/unreal-tournament-3-to-ship-with-dozens-of-maps/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/05/unreal-tournament-3-to-ship-with-dozens-of-maps/#commentsFiled under:

Over on Beyond Unreal, Death Booger mentions that August's OXM demo disc features a look at a few of the multiplayer maps that'll ship with Unreal Tournament 3. Among the pretty in-game videos are a few details about UT3 including confirmation that the game will ship with three to four dozen multiplayer maps. And, if our math is correct, that works out to be around 36 to 48 multiplayer maps on launch day and on the disc! The maps will of course vary in size, player count, etc., but the shear amount of variety should satisfy any Unreal enthusiast. Here's to hoping the "dozens" remarks holds true when the game ships as that would seriously put Shadowrun's nine maps to shame.

JoystiqUnreal Tournament 3 to ship with dozens of maps originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Jul 2007 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epicepic gameepic gamesEpicGameEpicGamesoxmunrealunreal tournament 3UnrealTournament3ut3Thu, 05 Jul 2007 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Crytek and Epic Games rev their engines]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/22/crytek-and-epic-games-rev-their-engines/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/22/crytek-and-epic-games-rev-their-engines/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/22/crytek-and-epic-games-rev-their-engines/#commentsFiled under: ,

Epic Games has found a wide audience, from Silicon Knights to Square Enix, with its Unreal Engine 3; meanwhile Crytek is looking to find success by licensing out CryEngine 2. Both companies also release games highlighting the engines (Unreal Tournament and Crysis, respectively).

Next Generation has an article where both Epic Games' Mark Rein and Crytek's Harald Seeley talk about the competitive field of game engines. According to the opening remarks, the article sees Crytek as one of the more promising competitors to the Gears of War developer.

It's an interesting read, but we shouldn't forget one engine that just recently made its first unveiling: id Tech 5. Creator John Carmack promised more information at Min-E3, and we think there's a good chance the House of Doom will add some major heat to all game engines.

JoystiqCrytek and Epic Games rev their engines originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Jun 2007 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cry enginecry engine 2cry tekCryEngineCryEngine2crysisCryTekepicepic gamesEpicGamesunrealunreal engineunreal engine 3UnrealEngineUnrealEngine3Fri, 22 Jun 2007 13:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Gears of War 2? Not happening at E3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/gears-of-war-2-not-happening-at-e3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/gears-of-war-2-not-happening-at-e3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/gears-of-war-2-not-happening-at-e3/#commentsFiled under: ,

It was rumored, but ultimately the E3 Gears of War sequel announcement was just that ... a rumor. Beyond Unreal contacted Mark Rein about the possibility that a Gears of War sequel would be announced at this year's E3 and his response was somewhere along the lines of no. "We are not announcing a sequel to Gears of War at E3 this year" Rein responded and reinforced their commitment to Gears of War's DLC by stating that "we're still working on the first one".

As fans of the Gears franchise we're more than fine with no new news at E3. Microsoft's E3 spiel will more than likely be about Halo 3 and other third party titles, so Gears news really isn't necessary. So Epic, you just take your time and put together one of the most rockin' Gears of War 2 announcement trailers ever and take comfort in knowing that you have the support of at least one blogger around these parts.

JoystiqGears of War 2? Not happening at E3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Jun 2007 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3epicepic gamesEpicGamesgearsgears of warGearsOfWargowTue, 19 Jun 2007 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[New Gears of War achievements rundown]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/14/new-gears-of-war-achievements-rundown/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/14/new-gears-of-war-achievements-rundown/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/14/new-gears-of-war-achievements-rundown/#commentsFiled under: ,

The Gears of War auto update rolled out earlier this morning implementing an updated roadie run (third time's the charm), general maintenance and our favorite ... new achievements. The eight new Gears achievements are wrapped up in the newish content all achievable either by playing the Annex gametype or by playing in the new Hidden Fronts maps (which cost 800 Microsoft points, but will be free in September). Our favorites? Based strictly on their names we love the 300 reference in "THIS! IS! ANNEX!", the nubness of "Nub Pwn3r", and "All That Juice" ... because it made us chuckle. But we're sure we'll achieve "You Down With E.P.I.C?" first, because it looks to be the easiest. Complete description of all eight new achievements is viewable after the break. Annex ... here we come.

Continue reading New Gears of War achievements rundown

JoystiqNew Gears of War achievements rundown originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Jun 2007 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epicepic gamesEpicGamesgearsgears of warGearsOfWargowThu, 14 Jun 2007 12:00:00 EST