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[Rumor: Microsoft exclusivity deals funding PS3 development in Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/16/rumor-microsoft-exclusivity-deals-in-japan-funding-ps3-developm/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/16/rumor-microsoft-exclusivity-deals-in-japan-funding-ps3-developm/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/16/rumor-microsoft-exclusivity-deals-in-japan-funding-ps3-developm/#comments
 What do Vampire Rain, Tales of Vesperia, Lost Planet, Eternal Sonata and Enchanted Arms all have in common? Aside from being developed in Japan, every one of them landed on the Xbox 360 "exclusively" first, only getting ported (sometimes with additional content) to the PlayStation 3 a year or so later. One Japanese developer claims the exclusivity agreements are being used in lieu of financial help from Sony for game development -- essentially saying that Japanese developers are using Microsoft's capital to develop temporarily exclusive 360 games with the intention of inexpensively porting the games to PS3 later on.

"It was easier developing for the Xbox 360 ... if you sign an exclusive contract with Microsoft (you won't release it on other hardware for a year or similar), they will give you a lot of cash for development," read a Japanese developer's post (the original post has since been removed), translated by Sankaku Complex (site NSFW). "As a result, first you develop for the Xbox, reducing development costs. But the Xbox version won't sell [in Japan]. So they port it to the PS3 ... it's cheaper as you already have the game done."

Though they didn't work on it, the developer claims to have seen this policy in practice with Tales of Vesperia. As Kotaku points out, it's quite possible that the dev did see such a practice on Vampire Rain, a game the mystery developer says they worked on.

JoystiqRumor: Microsoft exclusivity deals funding PS3 development in Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessenchanted-armseternal-sonataexclusivityjapanMicrosoftnamcorumorsankaku-complextales-of-vesperiavampire-rainXbox-360Wed, 16 Sep 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Eternal Sonata gets European release date]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/13/eternal-sonata-gets-european-release-date/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/13/eternal-sonata-gets-european-release-date/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/13/eternal-sonata-gets-european-release-date/#commentsFiled under:

Arriving five months later than the US counterpart (and 17 months after the Xbox 360 version), Eternal Sonata will finally make its appearance on PS3 in Europe this February. This cel-shaded JRPG tells a unique story about Chopin. The PS3 version includes content not found in the original Xbox 360 release.

We're not sure why it took so long, but it's finally coming out. Check for Eternal Sonata on store shelves February 13th.

JoystiqEternal Sonata gets European release date originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Jan 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eternal-sonatanamco-bandaiTue, 13 Jan 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Worldwide PS3 releases for the week of October 19th]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/19/worldwide-ps3-releases-for-the-week-of-october-19th/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/19/worldwide-ps3-releases-for-the-week-of-october-19th/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/19/worldwide-ps3-releases-for-the-week-of-october-19th/#commentsFiled under:

Even though the release list for this week is painfully long (for our wallets, at least), we can't help but feel that something is missing ... Nevermind. When you see this week's releases you'll have no trouble putting the week-long delay of LittleBigPlanet at the back of your mind. There are literally too many to choose from -- and this is just one week's worth of games. Here's the full release list:

US Games EU Games
 Asian Games
 Release dates are constantly subject to change, so be sure to check with your local store if you're uncertain. Also, feel free to import your games from other regions -- your PS3 loves exotic food. But keep in mind that DLC always needs to be purchased from the corresponding region. So if you have a US copy of Rock Band 2 you're going to be buying your tracks from the US PSN Store.

JoystiqWorldwide PS3 releases for the week of October 19th originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 19 Oct 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bioshockdead-spaceeternal-sonataeuroreleasesfar-cry-2midnight-club-los-angelesreleasesrock-band-2Sun, 19 Oct 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TGS 08: Eternal Sonata trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/10/tgs-08-eternal-sonata-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/10/tgs-08-eternal-sonata-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/10/tgs-08-eternal-sonata-trailer/#commentsFiled under:

It isn't too long until PS3 owners can get their hands on Trusty Bell Eternal Sonata. We're hoping that the PS3 version, which includes a significant number of extras over the 360 original, will do exactly one thing: explain what the heck a Trusty Bell is. The original game had absolutely no bells at all -- that's pretty untrustworthy to us.

JoystiqTGS 08: Eternal Sonata trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 10 Oct 2008 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eternal-sonatatgs08Fri, 10 Oct 2008 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Eternal Sonata confirmed for Europe in February 2009]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/06/eternal-sonata-confirmed-for-europe-in-february-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/06/eternal-sonata-confirmed-for-europe-in-february-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/06/eternal-sonata-confirmed-for-europe-in-february-2009/#commentsFiled under:


Looks like Eternal Sonata is finally headed Europe's way this upcoming February, one year and four months after the release of the Xbox 360 version of the title. No exact date was announced, but we'll let you know as soon as that information becomes available.

Namco Bandai promises more than just a straight port of the game: players who are willing give this title a chance will be treated to exclusive quests, multiple endings, new playable characters Crescendo and Serenade, new costumes and additional tunes from famed Polish composer Frederic Chopin. Still on the fence about this JRPG? Check out our hands-on impressions with the demo here. Are these new extras enticing enough for you to purchase a port of a game that's more than a year old?

[Via press release]

JoystiqEternal Sonata confirmed for Europe in February 2009 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 Oct 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atarieternal-sonatanamcotri-crescendoMon, 06 Oct 2008 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSN Thursday: The Rapture of demos]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/02/psn-thursday-the-rapture-of-demos/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/02/psn-thursday-the-rapture-of-demos/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/02/psn-thursday-the-rapture-of-demos/#commentsFiled under: , ,


This week's PSN update brings some nice demos for those PlayStation owners who truly shun all things Xbox 360. The BioShock and Eternal Sonata test drives are now available, along with snippets of NBA 2k9 and Brothers in Arms: Hell's Highway. In addition, The PixelJunk Eden soundtrack can be purchased for $3, and there's an NBA Live 365 add-on for NBA LIVE 09. The full list of this week's update is after the break.

Would you kindly head over to PS3 Fanboy to find out what's in this week's European PSN update?

Continue reading PSN Thursday: The Rapture of demos

JoystiqPSN Thursday: The Rapture of demos originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Oct 2008 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bioshock-ps3eternal-sonataPS3psnpsn-storepsn-thursdayPSPThu, 02 Oct 2008 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[25 brand new Eternal Sonata screenshots]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/02/25-brand-new-eternal-sonata-screenshots/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/02/25-brand-new-eternal-sonata-screenshots/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/02/25-brand-new-eternal-sonata-screenshots/#commentsFiled under:


Click for high-res image
We've got 25 brand new screenshots of the English, PS3 version of Eternal Sonata. Most of the new images in our gallery below are pics of the pseudo real-time battle system in action. If you're interest in hearing more about that, check out our short hands-on with the Japanese demo; otherwise, hit up our gallery. The game will be out on October 21.

Joystiq25 brand new Eternal Sonata screenshots originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Oct 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eternal-sonatanamcotricrescendoThu, 02 Oct 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 Fanboy hands-on: Eternal Sonata ]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/29/ps3-fanboy-hands-on-eternal-sonata/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/29/ps3-fanboy-hands-on-eternal-sonata/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/29/ps3-fanboy-hands-on-eternal-sonata/#commentsFiled under:

Eternal Sonata will be out in North America in a little over three weeks from now. Those of you who've held out getting the original title on the 360 are probably looking forward to that Oct. 21 date, but how does playing the game right now on your PS3 sound? Sounds good, doesn't it? Well you can download a newly released demo off the Japanese PS Store if you wish and see how things look on the PS3. While you wait for your 600MB download to finish, why not have a short read of our demo impressions to help get you through it?

Anyway, if you've been interested in this title, you might have played it on a friend's 360 or perhaps tried out the XBL demo previously. If you've played it before, you'll notice right away that the game on PS3 looks exactly the same as the original. In other words, it still looks incredibly beautiful with its rich colors and crisp, sharp graphics. Also, if you've already tried out the 360 demo, you'll notice that this new Japanese one is practically a carbon copy -- it follows Allegretto, Polka and Beat on a trip through Tenuto Village and the Heaven's Mirror Forest. So if you've tried it out before, then there's nothing new here for you -- unless you want to make comparisons between versions. For those who've never played Eternal Sonata, you should definitely make some time to try this demo out and continue reading after the break.


Continue reading PS3 Fanboy hands-on: Eternal Sonata

JoystiqPS3 Fanboy hands-on: Eternal Sonata originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Sep 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eternal-sonatajoystiqfeaturesnamco-bandaitri-crescendoMon, 29 Sep 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Eternal Sonata coming to stateside PS3s Oct. 21]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/13/eternal-sonata-coming-to-stateside-ps3s-oct-21/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/13/eternal-sonata-coming-to-stateside-ps3s-oct-21/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/13/eternal-sonata-coming-to-stateside-ps3s-oct-21/#commentsFiled under: ,


Namco-Bandai recently slapped an official U.S. release date on the PS3 version of Eternal Sonata, the former Xbox 360 exclusive RPG that conducted its way into our hearts nearly a year ago. While you're attempting to choose between The Joker or Jack Sparrow for your Halloween costume (very, very original, by the way), your attention may be diverted by the Chopin-tastic adventure, which will be landing on stateside pee-ess-threes on October 21. Considering the title will have been out for 13 months by then, we're not sure what fresh insight we could possibly add to the conversation, so we'll settle for an endorsement -- Eternal Sonata is the best musician-centric title since 50 Cent: Bulletproof.

JoystiqEternal Sonata coming to stateside PS3s Oct. 21 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 13 Sep 2008 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chopineternal-sonatanamco-bandaips3release-daterpgSat, 13 Sep 2008 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Eternal Sonata hits US on Oct. 21]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/12/eternal-sonata-hits-us-on-oct-21/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/12/eternal-sonata-hits-us-on-oct-21/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/12/eternal-sonata-hits-us-on-oct-21/#commentsFiled under:

Eternal Sonata brought the charming sound of Chopin onto the Xbox 360 late last year; meanwhile on the other side of the console pond, PS3 owners waited with the utmost patience, just waiting for the title to cross over -- which it did. Then came the waiting for an official date, which will officially be over once you finish reading the next sentence ... or the headline.

The game will be out this October 21. That's four days shy of being exactly 13 months apart from the original release on 360. We're seeing shades of 2K's BioShock here, given the whole year difference. In any case, PS3 owners who so dearly wish to muck up the deceased composer's life can do so next month.

JoystiqEternal Sonata hits US on Oct. 21 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Sep 2008 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eternal-sonatanamcotri-crescendoFri, 12 Sep 2008 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Eternal Sonata PS3 US-bound by Fall]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/eternal-sonata-ps3-us-bound-by-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/eternal-sonata-ps3-us-bound-by-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/eternal-sonata-ps3-us-bound-by-fall/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

After a long bout of denial, Namco finally confesses to an English language version of Eternal Sonata for the PS3. Formerly an Xbox 360 exclusive, the PS3 version will include brand-new content such as new cut scenes and characters.

Playable characters include Serenade and Crescendo, and players can now customize the look of members of their party with a variety of new outfits. New dungeons and different endings should add some flair to a tried-and-tested J-RPG. Eternal Sonata is set for a Fall release for North America.

Gallery: Eternal Sonata

JoystiqEternal Sonata PS3 US-bound by Fall originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Jul 2008 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingnewsE3e3-2008eternal-sonatanamconamco-bandaiPS3Tue, 15 Jul 2008 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Eternal Sonata coming to PS3 this Fall]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/eternal-sonata-coming-to-ps3-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/eternal-sonata-coming-to-ps3-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/eternal-sonata-coming-to-ps3-this-fall/#commentsFiled under:


Namco Bandai finally fessed up to the existence of an English language version of Eternal Sonata at E3 this year. The upcoming PS3 version will add tons of new features over the Xbox 360 original, such as new cutscenes and characters. Playable characters include Serenade and Crescendo, and players can now customize the look of members of their party with a variety of new outfits. There are also new dungeons and different endings.

Players can expect Eternal Sonata on their PS3s this Fall.

JoystiqEternal Sonata coming to PS3 this Fall originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Jul 2008 13:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e308eternal-sonatanamco-bandaiTue, 15 Jul 2008 13:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Eternal Sonata added to UK DS3 compatibility list]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/11/eternal-sonata-added-to-uk-ds3-compatibility-list/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/11/eternal-sonata-added-to-uk-ds3-compatibility-list/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/11/eternal-sonata-added-to-uk-ds3-compatibility-list/#commentsFiled under:

It was a sad day indeed when the rumor that Eternal Sonata might not see the light of day outside of Japan. Thankfully, that rumor may be just another one to stick on the "Not Gonna Happen" pile, as the game has been spotted on the official UK DualShock 3 compatibility list. The list itself was updated on July 8th, only two days ago, along with a whole host of games including some which are due to come out in the next year or so, such as Edge Of Twilight and Brutal Legend.

Does this mean it's headed West at some point in the future? Our guess is yes, which really makes our day (as if the iPhone launch wasn't enough). Hopefully an official announcement will be made by Namco Bandai soon. Wait, what's that just around the corner? E3? Fingers crossed.

[Via PS3Forums]

JoystiqEternal Sonata added to UK DS3 compatibility list originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 Jul 2008 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dualshock-3dualshock3eternal-sonataFri, 11 Jul 2008 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Eternal Sonata hits Japan in September, features tons of new content]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/26/eternal-sonata-hits-japan-in-september-features-tons-of-new-con/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/26/eternal-sonata-hits-japan-in-september-features-tons-of-new-con/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/26/eternal-sonata-hits-japan-in-september-features-tons-of-new-con/#commentsFiled under:

The PS3 version of Trusty Bell (also known as Eternal Sonata in the States) is hitting Japan on September 18th, more than a year after its original release on Xbox 360. Sales of the 360 original were respectable, but it's clear that the PS3 version will attract a largest audience, especially in the RPG-hungry Japanese territory.

To make up for the long delay, new content will be exclusive to the PS3 release. New event scenes, which flesh out the story, will be thrown on the Blu-ray disc. A new quest will be added, and unlike the original release of the game, there will be multiple endings. This new "director's cut" should alleviate some of the biggest complaints about the original. Joystiq's Alexander Sliwinski had this to say about the ending of the original Eternal Sonata: "It was like the team gave up, knew they still had to pack in a 40 hour experience and just rushed through the rest. And unless you're a pretentious philosophy major, the ending makes no kinds of sense."

While the PS3 version of Eternal Sonata is confirmed for release this year, the fate of a potential US release has been undetermined.

JoystiqEternal Sonata hits Japan in September, features tons of new content originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Jun 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Eternal-SonataJRPGNamcoNamco-BandaiRPGTri-CrescendoTrusty-BellThu, 26 Jun 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: PS3 Eternal Sonata for Japan only]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/ps3-eternal-sonata-only-for-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/ps3-eternal-sonata-only-for-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/ps3-eternal-sonata-only-for-japan/#commentsFiled under:

Speaking with Videogaming247, the US branch of Namco Bandai said that the PS3 version of Eternal Sonata will most likely not be released outside Japan. "I can't speak for any other territories, but I believe Eternal Sonata is only announced for the PS3 in Japan right now," said the Namco rep. "We have no plans to release the game on the PS3 in the US at this moment."

We haven't heard much about the RPG and Xbox 360 timed exclusive since the announcement of a PS3 port last year. We guess this explains why.

JoystiqRumor: PS3 Eternal Sonata for Japan only originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Jun 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Eternal-SonataJRPGNamcoNamco-BandaiRPGTri-CrescendoTrusty-BellMon, 02 Jun 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Eternal Sonata on PS3 may not leave Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/rumor-eternal-sonata-on-ps3-may-not-leave-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/rumor-eternal-sonata-on-ps3-may-not-leave-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/rumor-eternal-sonata-on-ps3-may-not-leave-japan/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Videogaming 247 says it's been told by Namco Bandai US that Eternal Sonata on PS3 won't be leaving Japan. A spokesperson for the publisher tells the site that the game has only been announced for Japan and it has "no plans to release the game on the PS3 in the US at this moment." Of course, in the never-ending battle with PR semantics, "at this moment" could mean the game will eventually be announced for other territories.

Eternal Sonata's official Japan-only PS3 status might explain some of the strange things that happened late last year when the game was announced for the PS3 on the ESRB site (pictured above) and on Namco's own US site, only to be removed sometime later.

JoystiqRumor: Eternal Sonata on PS3 may not leave Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Jun 2008 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Eternal-SonataJRPGMicrosoftNamcoNamco-BandaiPS3RPGTri-CrescendoTrusty-BellXbox-360Mon, 02 Jun 2008 16:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Tales of Vesperia confirmed, then denied, as PS3 game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/tales-of-vesperia-confirmed-then-denied-as-ps3-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/tales-of-vesperia-confirmed-then-denied-as-ps3-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/tales-of-vesperia-confirmed-then-denied-as-ps3-game/#commentsFiled under:


The internet excitedly responded to Namco Bandai's recent presentation to the press, which showed Tales of Vesperia as both an Xbox 360 and PS3 game. The long-running RPG series has a strong fan following, but Microsoft secured exclusivity for the game. Since then, Namco Bandai has revised its presentation, removing mention of a PS3 version, apologizing for the confusion.

Also unseen on this revised release schedule is the previously announced PS3 version of Eternal Sonata, another Xbox 360-exclusive RPG. Considering Microsoft's subpar performance in the Japanese region, it surprises us to see Namco Bandai stick with that platform exclusively, especially for a genre that's so popular in Japan. We're pretty certain that we'll see more of Tales of Vesperia and Eternal Sonata on PS3, once Microsoft's moneyhats wear off.

[Via NeoGAF]

JoystiqTales of Vesperia confirmed, then denied, as PS3 game originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 May 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eternal-sonatanamco-bandaitales-of-vesperiaWed, 14 May 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Best of the Rest: Alexander's Picks of 2007]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/01/best-of-the-rest-alexanders-picks-of-2007/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/01/best-of-the-rest-alexanders-picks-of-2007/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/01/best-of-the-rest-alexanders-picks-of-2007/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Civilization IV: Beyond the Sword (PC)

Please, make the addiction stop! Civilization IV: Warlords, the first expansion for Civ IV, made my "Best of the Rest" last year and Beyond the Sword tops this year's list. The funny thing is I'm not a Civ fanboy, nor am I even that great of a player (Full Disclosure: I still play on Noble level), but Civ IV is a game I can come back to over and over again. Beyond the Sword added much-needed mechanics for culture-prone and passive-aggressive players, with enhancements in espionage and other concepts "beyond the sword." Oh, and just to keep last year's tradition going: Firaxis (2K, Take-Two), please get the rights to Alpha Centauri back from EA and give us a sequel!

Continue reading Best of the Rest: Alexander's Picks of 2007

JoystiqBest of the Rest: Alexander's Picks of 2007 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Jan 2008 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActionBest-of-the-rest-2007carcassonnecatanciv4civilizationcivilizationivcivIVCrackdownDSEternal-SonataGOTY-2007heavenly-swordheavenlyswordJRPGMicrosoftNamcoNamco-BandaioverlordPCprojectsylpheedPS3PSPpuzzle-questpuzzlequestratchet-and-clankratchetandclankRealtime-WorldsRiot-ActRPGSandboxthe-darknessthedarknessTri-CrescendoTrusty-BellXbox-360Tue, 01 Jan 2008 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Eternal Sonata: the PS3 trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/11/eternal-sonata-the-ps3-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/11/eternal-sonata-the-ps3-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/11/eternal-sonata-the-ps3-trailer/#commentsFiled under:

Namco Bandai is bringing its JRPG, Eternal Sonata to the PS3 next year. Originally an Xbox 360 exclusive, the PS3 version adds a number of enhancements to the experience, with new characters and a fleshed out storyline. (Those that played the 360 original knows that the story needed to be slightly more developed.) Hopefully, by releasing on the PS3, Eternal Sonata will actually ... y'know, get played by an audience that actually appreciates this genre.

JoystiqEternal Sonata: the PS3 trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Dec 2007 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Eternal-SonataJRPGNamcoNamco-BandaiRPGTri-CrescendoTrusty-BellTue, 11 Dec 2007 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tons of Eternal Sonata screenshots, just for you]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/06/tons-of-eternal-sonata-screenshots-just-for-you/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/06/tons-of-eternal-sonata-screenshots-just-for-you/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/06/tons-of-eternal-sonata-screenshots-just-for-you/#commentsFiled under:

Even though the game has been out on the 360 for a while, it didn't make too big of a splash. Seems it's the wrong type of game for the console or something. It's a shame, since it's a very gorgeous title as shown in these screenshots. Cel shading is generally a difficult look to pull off, ranging from stuff like Jet Grind Radio to Wild ARMs 3 and pulled off fairly well in Rogue Galaxy.

This game trumps them all, thanks to the latest in gaming technology. Of course, gameplay is important too and two of the aforementioned games had oodles of that. Guess which one didn't? Hint: just take a "wild" guess. Hopefully a 360 owner who's played this game will speak up and let us know how the title played!

JoystiqTons of Eternal Sonata screenshots, just for you originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Nov 2007 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eternal-sonatanamco-bandaiTue, 06 Nov 2007 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Eternal Sonata on PS3: More characters, more story]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/02/eternal-sonata-on-ps3-more-characters-more-story/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/02/eternal-sonata-on-ps3-more-characters-more-story/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/02/eternal-sonata-on-ps3-more-characters-more-story/#commentsFiled under: , ,

If you haven't slugged through the emo-heavy Eternal Sonata on Xbox 360 (and don't care about achievements) it might be best to wait for the expanded PS3 version. Siliconera reports that the PS3 version of Eternal Sonata features new playable characters Prince Crescendo and Serenade; developer Tri-Crecendo will also be adding extra story sequences.

We hope that these extra pieces are available as downloads to the Xbox 360 version as well, if only to help out those playing the game in the future. Anyone who has finished Eternal Sonata can probably tell you that although the gameplay is fun, the second half of the game's story falls apart, making little sense and feeling completely tossed together. It's probably best not to think of this new version of Eternal Sonata as an expansion so much as a giant patch.

JoystiqEternal Sonata on PS3: More characters, more story originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Nov 2007 15:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Eternal-SonataJRPGMicrosoftNamcoNamco-BandaiPS3RPGTri-CrescendoTrusty-BellXbox-360Fri, 02 Nov 2007 15:55:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 Eternal Sonata gets plenty of bonus content]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/31/ps3-eternal-sonata-gets-plenty-of-bonus-content/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/31/ps3-eternal-sonata-gets-plenty-of-bonus-content/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/31/ps3-eternal-sonata-gets-plenty-of-bonus-content/#commentsFiled under: ,

While the 360 crowd has gotten to enjoy more JRPG titles than the PS3 this past year, we'll be grabbing one of their exclusives, Eternal Sonata, come early 2008. Instead of just porting over the skin and bones of the original version, the PS3 version will include a number of extras to enhance our cel-shaded experience.

Bonus content! The very phrase is exciting, but then often times the "bonus" will be an unlockable soundtrack feature, a piece of artwork, or something incredibly lame, unlike all those old Working Designs collections. Those were great. Anyway, Eternal Sonata pulls out some worthwhile content, like making previously nonplayable characters Serenade and Prince Crescendo totally playable. There will also be added story sequences, probably for these characters. Sounds like a winner for the PS3's RPG library.

[via SiliconEra]

JoystiqPS3 Eternal Sonata gets plenty of bonus content originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 31 Oct 2007 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eternal-sonatatri-crescendoWed, 31 Oct 2007 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ProStreet and Eternal Sonata demos on XBLM]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/23/prostreet-and-eternal-sonata-demos-on-xblm/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/23/prostreet-and-eternal-sonata-demos-on-xblm/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/23/prostreet-and-eternal-sonata-demos-on-xblm/#commentsFiled under: ,

Arriving side by side on the XBLM this morning (with their friend Guitar Hero III) are demos for both Need for Speed: ProStreet and Eternal Sonata.

The Need for Speed: ProStreet demo is available to all Xbox Live regions and within' the 654MB package is what promises to be "the highest level of street racing" ... evar. Sounds fun to us. The other demo was previously released to North America, but is now available to all of Europe. The Eternal Sonata European demo weighs in at a manageable 584MBs and, according to the demo description, promises "download the demo". Erm, that isn't a promise or any information about the game at all. It's more like a demand, one of those cocky demanding demand. Well, maybe we should all take the demanded advice and give both demos a download and while at it, the GHIII demo too.

Read - Need for Speed: ProStreet demo
Read - Eternal Sonata demo (Europe)

JoystiqProStreet and Eternal Sonata demos on XBLM originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Oct 2007 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eternal-sonataneed-for-speed-prostreetnfs-prostreetxblmTue, 23 Oct 2007 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview: Eternal Sonata (Xbox 360)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/20/metareview-eternal-sonata-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/20/metareview-eternal-sonata-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/20/metareview-eternal-sonata-xbox-360/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Namco Bandai's Eternal Sonata waltzed its way into retailers this week around North America to generally positive reviews. If you still haven't tried out the demo, there's something about it that seems to speak to those who don't typically enjoy the RPG genre. The battle system definitely is refreshing for those who like a little bit more action and button mashing in their gameplay. Oh, and the game sure is purrdy.
  • GameSpot (85/100): "Once you get beyond the glittering production, how does it actually play? Thankfully, the gameplay is satisfying and moves at a slick tempo. There are no random encounters, so you can see every monster. Oftentimes, you can simply go around them, though you will be forced into some battles (and some terrific, challenging boss fights too). Combat isn't a typical series of turns with infinite time in between, though: Eternal Sonata's system is an inventive mix of turn-based and real-time warfare that gets trickier as the game progresses."
  • IGN (83/100): "Eternal Sonata is a great RPG to give to your kid, but it's also put together well enough for older gamers to enjoy. If you haven't had much experience with RPGs, Eternal Sonata would be a great way to get your feet wet. Hardcore RPG fans might find the game a bit lacking, but we found enough to enjoy in the game to keep the limited role-playing elements far enough out of mind from start to finish for the game to keep from growing stale."
  • 1UP (60/100): "Sounds like the latest trendy European art-house flick, but this is the typically clichéd domain of Japanese role-playing games. Frédéric Chopin is no plucky teen, and he's certainly no bald space marine, so all the elements are in place to tell a different kind of videogame story -- which is why it's all the more frustrating that Eternal Sonata squanders its imaginative setting."

Gallery: Eternal Sonata

JoystiqMetareview: Eternal Sonata (Xbox 360) originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Sep 2007 03:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Eternal-SonataJRPGMicrosoftNamcoNamco-BandaiPS3RPGTri-CrescendoTrusty-BellXbox-360Thu, 20 Sep 2007 03:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Eternal Sonata hits PS3 next year, receives bonus content]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/17/eternal-sonata-hits-ps3-next-year-receives-bonus-content/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/17/eternal-sonata-hits-ps3-next-year-receives-bonus-content/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/17/eternal-sonata-hits-ps3-next-year-receives-bonus-content/#commentsFiled under:

Now that we know Eternal Sonata is definitely being released on the PS3, we've learned even more good news regarding Bandai Namco's newest RPG - the PS3 version will receive bonus content not found on the Xbox 360's.

According to IGN, the PS3's Eternal Sonata will feature new events to flesh out the game's storyline, Crescendo and Serenade will be playable characters and you'll even be able to change your character's outfits.

Although Eternal Sonata was released today on the Xbox 360, PS3 owners have to wait until next year, but, hey, it could be well worth the wait.

[Via Euro PS3 forum]

JoystiqEternal Sonata hits PS3 next year, receives bonus content originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Sep 2007 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Eternal-SonataJRPGNamcoNamco-BandaiRPGTri-CrescendoTrusty-BellMon, 17 Sep 2007 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New games this week: Eternal Sonata edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/17/new-games-this-week-eternal-sonata-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/17/new-games-this-week-eternal-sonata-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/17/new-games-this-week-eternal-sonata-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

We're not sure, but we bet Shari Lewis, were she still with us, would get a real kick out of the name of this week's game of the week. ... OK, we know, that wasn't much, as far as jokes go. But honestly, the well has run dry on "will it be on PS3" stuff to write about Eternal Sonata and "Song That Doesn't End" gags are about as much as we were able to muster. It also serves as a nice intro to this week's releases, which we're calling "Mediocrity Unbound!" Please, enjoy.

Gallery: Eternal Sonata

Continue reading New games this week: Eternal Sonata edition

JoystiqNew games this week: Eternal Sonata edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Sep 2007 09:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSEternal-SonataJRPGMicrosoftNamcoNamco-BandainewgamesPCPS2PS3PSPRPGTri-CrescendoTrusty-BellWiiXbox-360Mon, 17 Sep 2007 09:35:00 EST<![CDATA[ESRB shows Eternal Sonata on PS3 ... again]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/14/esrb-shows-eternal-sonata-on-ps3-again/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/14/esrb-shows-eternal-sonata-on-ps3-again/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/14/esrb-shows-eternal-sonata-on-ps3-again/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Go make yourself some popcorn and watch the madness as Namco Bandai just can't put the information regarding the PS3 version of Eternal Sonata back in the bottle. We've found it strange that Eternal Sonata was completely missing from the ESRB site for a while now, despite the Xbox 360 version being rated T back in April and scheduled to release next week, but the listing magically reappeared today with the PS3 still listed as a platform. Just to be clear, the ESRB lists their information directly from the publisher.

Namco Bandai continues to list Eternal Sonata as strictly for the Xbox 360, but Famitsu reported otherwise and says the PS3 version of Eternal Sonata will be out in Japan next spring. A few days ago even Namco Bandai's own site listed Eternal Sonata for the PS3 before they decided to pull the information hours later. We really have no idea why Namco Bandai is sitting on this info, but the fact that they won't acknowledge it at this point is laughable. Namco Bandai can't seem to craft a proper message on Beautiful Katamari either.

JoystiqESRB shows Eternal Sonata on PS3 ... again originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 Sep 2007 15:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Eternal-SonataJRPGMicrosoftNamcoNamco-BandaiPS3RPGTri-CrescendoTrusty-BellXbox-360Fri, 14 Sep 2007 15:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Eternal Sonata is on PS3 reports Famitsu]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/12/eternal-sonata-is-on-ps3-reports-famitsu/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/12/eternal-sonata-is-on-ps3-reports-famitsu/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/12/eternal-sonata-is-on-ps3-reports-famitsu/#commentsFiled under:

Remember how yesterday we reported that Eternal Sonata is coming to PS3 because it was listed on the official Namco Bandai site? Well, if you didn't follow the story after that, Namco Bandai pulled the information later. Now, in a classic Willy Wonka "Scratch that, reverse it" moment, Famitsu reports that the Eternal Sonata is coming to PS3 in Japan during the spring of '08.

We're also expecting the PS3 version of Beautiful Katamari -- also part of yesterday's disappearing act -- to show up announced somewhere in the relative future too. What we still find funny is that Eternal Sonata is still not listed on the ESRB website, despite it coming out next week in the States. The ESRB was who originally tipped off everyone that Eternal Sonata would make its way to PS3.

[Via PS3 Fanboy]

JoystiqEternal Sonata is on PS3 reports Famitsu originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Sep 2007 14:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Eternal-SonataJRPGMicrosoftNamcoNamco-BandaiPS3RPGTri-CrescendoTrusty-BellXbox-360Wed, 12 Sep 2007 14:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Eternal Sonata confirmed for PS3 by Famitsu]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/12/eternal-sonata-confirmed-for-ps3-by-famitsu/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/12/eternal-sonata-confirmed-for-ps3-by-famitsu/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/12/eternal-sonata-confirmed-for-ps3-by-famitsu/#commentsFiled under:

Everyone's favourite Asian games magazine has revealed that yesterday's "accidental" site update was, in fact, correct. Eternal Sonata of the Spotless Mind will be coming to the PS3 in the Spring of 2008. We're not surprised. When Namco Bandai themselves edit their site to say that one of their games is headed to the PS3, it's pretty safe to assume it's true.

Famitsu also reveals that the characters Crescendo and Serenade will be playable and that characters will be able to change outfits. Exciting stuff! We're happy to see the game coming to PS3 and just gives us one more thing to look forward to come 2008. Now, where's that announcement regarding Beautiful Katamari coming back to the PS3? It's only a matter of time.

JoystiqEternal Sonata confirmed for PS3 by Famitsu originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Sep 2007 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eternal-sonataWed, 12 Sep 2007 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Namco Bandai site shows Eternal Sonata and Beautiful Katamari coming to PS3 [Update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/11/namco-bandai-site-shows-eternal-sonata-and-beautiful-katamari-co/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/11/namco-bandai-site-shows-eternal-sonata-and-beautiful-katamari-co/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/11/namco-bandai-site-shows-eternal-sonata-and-beautiful-katamari-co/#commentsFiled under: , ,

[Update: The PS3 listings have been removed from both games' official pages.]

Namco Bandai's official US website now shows Eternal Sonata and Beautiful Katamari coming to the PS3. Although Namco Bandai still won't come out in a press release and say it -- something they're accustomed to -- unless some web intern went on a bender, we'll take this as one-eyebrow-lift confirmation of both games for PS3.

For Beautiful Katamari there has been an epic saga of what console it'll end up rolling to. First it was all the systems, then it was for a few. It was even reported that it was going to XBLA for a little bit. Currently the Xbox 360 version has a release date of Oct. 16, with the PS3 and Wii are resting up with a case of the TBD.

As for Eternal Sonata on PS3, this backs up the information from April showing that the ESRB had rated Eternal Sonata for both the Xbox 360 and PS3. Oddly enough, now Eternal Sonata isn't listed by the ESRB at all, even though it had Teen rating before. No word on release or official announcement for PS3, but the Xbox 360 version of Eternal Sonata is expected next week.

Read - Eternal Sonata official page
Read - Beautiful Katamari official page

[Via PS3 Fanboy, Thanks Julius]

Gallery: Eternal Sonata

JoystiqNamco Bandai site shows Eternal Sonata and Beautiful Katamari coming to PS3 [Update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Sep 2007 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Eternal-SonataJRPGMicrosoftNamcoNamco-BandaiPS3RPGTri-CrescendoTrusty-BellXbox-360Tue, 11 Sep 2007 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Eternal Sonata website lists PS3 as platform]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/11/eternal-sonata-website-lists-ps3-as-platform/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/11/eternal-sonata-website-lists-ps3-as-platform/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/11/eternal-sonata-website-lists-ps3-as-platform/#commentsFiled under:


Currently confirmed as an Xbox 360 RPG, Eternal Sonata's official US website lists a curious addition: a PlayStation 3 version. We'd like to think that this isn't a mistake, but rather confirmation of a PS3 release. Considering it's only midnight on the west coast, Namco Bandai obviously won't return our e-mails, but stay tuned for more.

[Thanks to everyone that sent this in!]

JoystiqEternal Sonata website lists PS3 as platform originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Sep 2007 03:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eternal-sonataTue, 11 Sep 2007 03:15:00 EST<![CDATA[New Eternal Sonata trailer showcases combat]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/31/new-eternal-sonata-trailer-showcases-combat/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/31/new-eternal-sonata-trailer-showcases-combat/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/31/new-eternal-sonata-trailer-showcases-combat/#commentsFiled under: ,

A new trailer for Eternal Sonata has popped up on Xbox Live Marketplace. The new trailer focuses on the game's unique combat system and also gives us a glimpse of the various playable characters and enemies in the game. One of the more interesting aspects of the combat system is the interaction between light and dark. You can see this in the video when enemies move between light and dark areas of the combat field. Oftentimes this results in otherwise harmless looking enemies transforming into giant monstrosities. Overall, the combat system looks very engaging, and we're eager to take the full game for a spin. Eternal Sonata hits retail shelves on September 17th. Don't forget there is also a demo available on XBLM right now.

JoystiqNew Eternal Sonata trailer showcases combat originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 31 Aug 2007 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Eternal-SonataJRPGNamcoNamco-BandaiRPGTri-CrescendoTrusty-BellFri, 31 Aug 2007 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[New Eternal Sonata details, still 360 exclusive]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/17/new-eternal-sonata-details-still-360-exclusive/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/17/new-eternal-sonata-details-still-360-exclusive/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/17/new-eternal-sonata-details-still-360-exclusive/#commentsFiled under:


During an Eternal Sonata conference call last night, we managed to clarify some details on the game and even uncover some new details. First of all, we learned that the game should take about 30 hours to complete for players that wish to simply charge through. If, however, you wish to complete all the side-quests (and you won't get the full story if you don't), it will take much longer. In fact, some of the side-quests aren't even accessible on the first play-through, so players will have at least some incentive to go through the game more than once. RPG fans hoping for some downloadable goodness on par with Blue Dragon will likely be disappointed to hear that very little is planned at this point. In fact, the only DLC planned right now is actually an unlock key to listen to music from the game. What's more, this content is unlockable in the game itself, so the DLC is basically moot. On a more positive note the game will contain both English and Japanese voice tracks, so purists won't have to cover their ears.

Continue reading New Eternal Sonata details, still 360 exclusive

JoystiqNew Eternal Sonata details, still 360 exclusive originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 Aug 2007 17:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Eternal-SonataJRPGNamcoNamco-BandaiRPGTri-CrescendoTrusty-BellFri, 17 Aug 2007 17:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Vampire Rain, Eternal Sonata demos on XBLM]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/07/vampire-rain-eternal-sonata-demos-on-xblm/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/07/vampire-rain-eternal-sonata-demos-on-xblm/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/07/vampire-rain-eternal-sonata-demos-on-xblm/#commentsFiled under: ,

If you couldn't bring yourself to purchase a copy of Official Xbox Magazine (or if you don't have wonderful Japanese friends), you can now finally download the Eternal Sonata demo from Xbox Live Marketplace. The demo gives players a chance to stretch their legs a bit and get used to the game's interesting, pseudo real time combat system. If you've made it this long without trying it out, you should really give it a go. Oh, there is also a Vampire Rain demo that is available everywhere except Germany, Korea, Taiwan, or the United States. We were beginning to get mighty angry about that, but then we remembered it was Vampire Rain.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqVampire Rain, Eternal Sonata demos on XBLM originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 Aug 2007 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Eternal-SonataJRPGNamcoNamco-BandaiRPGTri-CrescendoTrusty-BellTue, 07 Aug 2007 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Eternal Sonata demo goes Live in U.S.]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/07/eternal-sonata-demo-goes-live-in-u-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/07/eternal-sonata-demo-goes-live-in-u-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/07/eternal-sonata-demo-goes-live-in-u-s/#commentsFiled under: ,

If you weren't quite l33t enough to hook it up back in May, the Eternal Sonata demo has burst forth from its shackles in Japan and has made its way to Xbox Live in Canada and the U.S. If you didn't already play through it with the help of a Japanese friend (wink) expect a really gorgeous RPG with a healthy dose of Chopin and choppin'. Strangely, the demo's information is in Japanese in the Marketplace. Hopefully this will be cleared up soon.

Perhaps this is a good time to mention that we're still completely puzzled by the demo release schedule on Live. As if to illustrate our point, there's also a new Vampire Rain demo today that's "not available in Germany, Korea, Taiwan or the United States." Either someone is using a giant, whimsically-colored dartboard to make these decisions, or way too many resources are being devoted to this stuff. Since it's not rocket science to create a Live account that's supposedly from another region, the only real choice being made is which country is going to be inconvenienced. Why waste everyone's time?

JoystiqEternal Sonata demo goes Live in U.S. originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 Aug 2007 09:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Eternal-SonataJRPGMicrosoftNamcoNamco-BandaiRPGTri-CrescendoTrusty-BellXbox-360Tue, 07 Aug 2007 09:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Eterna Sonata trailer now on Marketplace]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/30/eterna-sonata-trailer-now-on-marketplace/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/30/eterna-sonata-trailer-now-on-marketplace/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/30/eterna-sonata-trailer-now-on-marketplace/#commentsFiled under: ,

The Eternal Sonata trailer that was showed you from IGN is now available on Xbox Live Marketplace in HD. It weighs in at 71 MB, and gives you a better scope on the the game's world, art style and gameplay. As we said before, the game follows the final hours of composer Frederic Chopin, while in a feverish dream state. All of that to say that we still can't wait for this to hit come September, though we hope it doesn't get crushed under the weight of Halo 3's release on the 25th. Either way, if you didn't watch the embedded trailer, or thought the quality didn't give you a proper impression, check it out on XBLM.

JoystiqEterna Sonata trailer now on Marketplace originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 30 Jun 2007 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Eternal-SonataJRPGNamco-BandaiRPGTri-CrescendoTrusty-BellXBLMSat, 30 Jun 2007 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Eternal Sonata trailer plucks heartstrings]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/29/eternal-sonata-trailer-plucks-heartstrings/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/29/eternal-sonata-trailer-plucks-heartstrings/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/29/eternal-sonata-trailer-plucks-heartstrings/#commentsFiled under:

IGN has posted a new trailer of Eternal Sonata in preparation for E3 next month. We've made it no secret that we adore the eccentric premise of the game, and this trailer only serves to cement that belief. For those of you still unfamiliar with it, the game chronicles the final hours of composer Frederic Chopin. The catch, you see, is that Chopin is asleep and the game occurs inside the fever dream world of his final hours. As you might expect, Chopin's dream world has a lot of musical ties. More than that though, the game is simply gorgeous, something like Howl's Moving Castle in video game form. The game is scheduled to hit U.S. shores in September. We can't wait.

JoystiqEternal Sonata trailer plucks heartstrings originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Jun 2007 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Eternal-SonataJRPGNamco-BandaiRPGTri-CrescendoTrusty-BellFri, 29 Jun 2007 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Atari to bring Trusty Bell, AC6 to Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/22/atari-to-bring-trusty-bell-ac6-to-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/22/atari-to-bring-trusty-bell-ac6-to-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/22/atari-to-bring-trusty-bell-ac6-to-europe/#commentsFiled under:

Our friends at Xboxygen report that Atari has signed a deal with Namco Bandai to publish both Trusty Bell -- known as Eternal Sonata in the U.S. -- and Ace Combat 6 in Europe. X3F readers will remember that Trusty Bell made a splash in the Japanese market last week, landing in the number 2 sales spot. The game tells the tale of a fantasy world -- actually the fever dream of a dying Frederic Chopin -- in dire straights, and it features many musical motifs. Ace Combat 6 is the latest entry in the long running Namco flight combat series, and is the first to appear on a non-Sony console. It's currently unknown if Atari plans to release the Ace Combat 6 flight stick controller bundle in Europe.

Both games are expected to launch in Europe this fall.

JoystiqAtari to bring Trusty Bell, AC6 to Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Jun 2007 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atariEternal-SonataJRPGNamcoNamco-BandaiRPGTri-CrescendoTrusty-BellFri, 22 Jun 2007 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Eternal Sonata Japan's 2nd best seller]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/21/eternal-sonata-japans-2nd-best-seller/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/21/eternal-sonata-japans-2nd-best-seller/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/21/eternal-sonata-japans-2nd-best-seller/#commentsFiled under:

Stop the presses, hold the phone, and list some clichés, because an Xbox 360 game has reached the number 2 spot on the Japanese sales charts. Yes, Eternal Sonata, known as Trusty Bell in Japan, clawed its way to the number 2 spot with 49,334 copies sold, beaten only by Practice by Observing: DS Observation Training for the DS. It is unclear how many copies sold were part of the Trusty Bell bundle we reported back in April. If you haven't been keeping track, the Xbox 360 hasn't really fared too well in Japan, so a number 2 game is a momentous occasion indeed. This becomes particularly apparent in light of the fact that Blue Dragon, developed by the creator of Final Fantasy himself, only managed to hit number 4 (though it actually sold more copies). We'll be keeping our eye out for the hardware charts to see if the Xbox 360 got a much needed boost last week as well.

JoystiqEternal Sonata Japan's 2nd best seller originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 21 Jun 2007 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Eternal-SonataJRPGNamcoNamco-BandaiRPGTri-CrescendoTrusty-BellThu, 21 Jun 2007 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[360's Eternal Sonata briefly tops Amazon Japan charts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/05/360s-eternal-sonata-briefly-tops-amazon-japan-charts/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/05/360s-eternal-sonata-briefly-tops-amazon-japan-charts/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/05/360s-eternal-sonata-briefly-tops-amazon-japan-charts/#commentsFiled under: ,

While not a chorus of evidence that the Xbox 360 is on the way to acceptance in the Japanese market, news that the Japanese-developed RPG Trusty Bell (that's Eternal Sonata for those of us outside Japan) made it to the top spot on Amazon would seem to indicate some success for Microsoft's white box.

This is reminiscent of two other highly anticipated Xbox 360 titles that managed to persuade unimpressed Japanese gamers to consider the Xbox 360: Blue Dragon and Gears of War. Though the title has since dropped from the number 1 to the number 3 place on Amazon's sales charts, we imagine the boys in Redmond are more saddened by the realization that -- at least according to the ESRB -- this erstwhile Xbox 360-exclusive is most likely going multiplatform.

[Via X3F]

Gallery: Eternal Sonata

Joystiq360's Eternal Sonata briefly tops Amazon Japan charts originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Jun 2007 12:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Eternal-SonataJRPGMicrosoftNamco-BandaiRPGTri-CrescendoTrusty-BellXbox-360Tue, 05 Jun 2007 12:28:00 EST