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[Battlefield 4 launching on October 29, both it and Destiny coming to Xbox One]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/battlefield-4-launching-on-october-29-both-it-and-destiny-comin/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/battlefield-4-launching-on-october-29-both-it-and-destiny-comin/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/battlefield-4-launching-on-october-29-both-it-and-destiny-comin/#commentsBattlefield 4 launching on October 29, both it and Destiny coming to Xbox One Battlefield 4 has announced via its Facebook page that the game will launch on October 29 of this year. In addition to versions on the PC, Xbox 360, the PlayStation 3 and the PlayStation 4, the team has also confirmed the game will be coming to Microsoft's newly announced Xbox One console. The Xbox One doesn't have a confirmed launch date just yet, so it's possible that version will arrive later.

Additionally, EA's announced Battlefield 4's first expansion pack, called China Rising. The pack will contain four extra maps, along with extra vehicles and weapons. It will be available at launch, and come free with any pre-order of the game.

And speaking of confirmed Xbox One titles, Bungie has also made it clear that Destiny is due out on Xbox One as well. Stay tuned for more confirmations on next-gen titles for Microsoft's new console.

JoystiqBattlefield 4 launching on October 29, both it and Destiny coming to Xbox One originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 May 2013 15:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>announcementbattlefield-4bungiechina-risingconsolesdestinydicedlceaexpansionfacebookmicrosoftnext-genpacpackreleasexboxxbox-onexbox-revealTue, 21 May 2013 15:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization 5's 'Brave New World' expansion adds Indonesia, Morocco]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/civilization-5s-brave-new-world-expansion-adds-indonesia-mor/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/civilization-5s-brave-new-world-expansion-adds-indonesia-mor/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/civilization-5s-brave-new-world-expansion-adds-indonesia-mor/#comments Two more factions, Indonesia and Morocco, have been revealed for upcoming Civilization 5 expansion, Brave New World. Leading Indonesia is Gaja Mada, famous for his military insight as prime minister of the Majapahit Empire; Ahmad al-Mansur leads the Moroccans, sultan of the Saadi dynasty in the 1500s.

Brave New World, the second expansion to Civilization 5, is due in July and will add nine new civilizations, several new wonders and modified mechanics from the base game. The first expansion, Gods and Kings, arrived last summer, adding new espionage and religious mechanics.

Gallery: Civilization 5: Brave New World (Indonesia and Morocco)

JoystiqCivilization 5's 'Brave New World' expansion adds Indonesia, Morocco originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 May 2013 02:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesAhmad-al-Mansurbrave-new-worldcivilization-5expansionfiraxis-gamesgaja-madaindonesiamoroccopcTue, 21 May 2013 02:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Might and Magic Heroes 6: Shades of Darkness pre-order bonuses are really grim]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/15/might-and-magic-6-shades-of-darkness-pre-order-bonuses-are-real/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/15/might-and-magic-6-shades-of-darkness-pre-order-bonuses-are-real/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/15/might-and-magic-6-shades-of-darkness-pre-order-bonuses-are-real/#comments
Ubisoft has revealed a handful of pre-order bonuses for the standalone Might & Magic Heroes 6 expansion, Shades of Darkness. Pre-ordering the $30 package directly from Ubisoft will net you several in-game items, including the hero Belketh - who looks just a bit like the Grim Reaper - as well as four special weapons.

Shades of Darkness will be released on February 28. Check out the trailer above for a peek at its story (just be sure to set your monitor to "maximum cheese").

Continue reading Might and Magic Heroes 6: Shades of Darkness pre-order bonuses are really grim

JoystiqMight and Magic Heroes 6: Shades of Darkness pre-order bonuses are really grim originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Jan 2013 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>black-hole-entertainmentexpansionMight-and-Magic-Heroes-6pcshades-of-darknessubisoftTue, 15 Jan 2013 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Might & Magic Heroes 6 'Shades of Darkness' standalone coming Feb. 28]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/11/might-and-magic-heroes-6-shades-of-darkness-standalone-coming-fe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/11/might-and-magic-heroes-6-shades-of-darkness-standalone-coming-fe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/11/might-and-magic-heroes-6-shades-of-darkness-standalone-coming-fe/#comments Might & Magic Heroes 6 'Shades of Darkness' standalone coming Feb 28, web portal open nowUbisoft has announced a release date for the upcoming Might & Magic Heroes VI standalone expansion. Shades of Darkness, as it's called, will be available worldwide on February 28, 2013. Set in time one century after the core game's events, Shades of Darkness will feature two storylines, setting two factions - the Dark Elves and the Necromancers of Heresh - against each other for the fate of Ashan.

The expansion will be available independently or as part of a Might & Magic Heroes VI Complete Edition, which includes the core game and the expansion along with all bonus content, two DLC packs, and a full soundtrack. And Ubisoft has also premiered the Might & Magic web portal, featuring lots of information about the franchise's mythology, an interactive timeline about the world's history, and lots of new and info on the various games in the series. You can see some portal layouts and a bit of concept art for the expansion in the gallery below.

Gallery: Might and Magic Heroes 6: Shades of Darkness

Continue reading Might & Magic Heroes 6 'Shades of Darkness' standalone coming Feb. 28

JoystiqMight & Magic Heroes 6 'Shades of Darkness' standalone coming Feb. 28 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Dec 2012 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>complete-editionexpansionfebruarygrowthheroes-of-might-and-magicMight-and-Magic-Heroes-6pcrelease-datesaleshades-of-darknessstandalonestandalone-expansionubisoftTue, 11 Dec 2012 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Take-Two potentially opening new offices in Las Vegas]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/03/take-two-potentially-opening-new-offices-in-las-vegas/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/03/take-two-potentially-opening-new-offices-in-las-vegas/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/03/take-two-potentially-opening-new-offices-in-las-vegas/#comments TakeTwo potentially opening new offices in Las VegasTake-Two, publisher of XCOM: Enemy Unknown, Borderlands 2, et al, may soon be opening new offices in Las Vegas, according to proposal documents concerning Take-Two and The City of Las Vegas Redevelopment Agency. If opened, the new facility would employ a minimum of 150 persons full-time, all of whom would earn a "gross average hourly wage, including overtime, of at least $18 per hour."

The agreement also stipulates that, in order for Take-Two to be eligible for the (up to) $600,000 in incentives, 15 percent of all full-time employees must be "full time residents within the Agency's redevelopment area" as well as "members of racial minorities, women, disabled or veterans."

The purpose of the facility is still uncertain; whether this could be a new studio or a satellite testing office is unknown. It's worth noting, however, that while $18 an hour sounds like QA/testing wages, that's the minimum amount required by the agreement and may not accurately reflect what the real average ends up being.

JoystiqTake-Two potentially opening new offices in Las Vegas originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 03 Nov 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>expansionlas-vegasnevadanew-buildingnew-officetake-twotake-two-interactiveSat, 03 Nov 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Borderlands 2 'Torgue' expansion turns up on The Workshop resumes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/19/borderlands-2-torgue-expansion-turns-up-on-the-workshop-resume/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/19/borderlands-2-torgue-expansion-turns-up-on-the-workshop-resume/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/19/borderlands-2-torgue-expansion-turns-up-on-the-workshop-resume/#comments Borderlands 2 'Torgue' expansion mentioned on resumesBorderlands 2 promises four bits of DLC by June, and one of those may very well be based on the game's Torgue weapons manufacturer. A "Torgue" expansion is listed on a few resumes from The Workshop Entertainment, the studio behind PS3 Move's Sorcery, as spotted by Superannuation.

A level designer lists the Torgue expansion for Borderlands 2 on Xbox 360, PS3 and PC and a former senior level designer (through August 2012) lists "unannounced DLC" for those three platforms. Superannuation notes a current animator also includes the Torgue DLC listing on his resume, but that has since been taken offline.

Another Workshop level designer describes one piece of unannounced DLC as an "expansion for a highly successful triple-A FPS," and with more than 10 hours of gameplay.

JoystiqBorderlands 2 'Torgue' expansion turns up on The Workshop resumes originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 Sep 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>borderlands-2DLCexpansiongearboxgearbox-softwaremicrosoftpcplaystationps3The-WorkshoptorguexboxWed, 19 Sep 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Trine 2: Goblin Menace expansion hits Steam on Sept. 6]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/30/trine-2-goblin-menace-expansion-hits-steam-on-sept-6/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/30/trine-2-goblin-menace-expansion-hits-steam-on-sept-6/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/30/trine-2-goblin-menace-expansion-hits-steam-on-sept-6/#comments Trine 2 Goblin Menace expansion hits Steam Sept 6Trine 2's upcoming expansion, "Goblin Menace," will be available to PC and Mac users who purchased the game through Steam on Thursday, September 6 for $7.99/€6.99. Steam customers who purchased the Collector's Edition, however, should already have access to beta versions of the expansion's first two levels, though the beta will end once the final product is available.

App Store and Linux versions on Trine 2 will receive Goblin Menace at a later date, while the game's Wii U port will ship with the new content included. The DLC is accompanied by a two-gig update to the game itself, which ensures that both expanded and non-expanded copies of the game behave properly in multiplayer.

Smaller gameplay updates are also being implemented, such as arrows that show a player's location while in multiplayer, in addition to other miscellaneous adjustments and fixes. Frozenbyte encourages all Collector's Edition kids to contribute their feedback to the game's Steam forum.

Continue reading Trine 2: Goblin Menace expansion hits Steam on Sept. 6

JoystiqTrine 2: Goblin Menace expansion hits Steam on Sept. 6 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Aug 2012 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>expansionfrozenbytegoblin-menacemacpatchpcrelease-datesteamtrine-2updateThu, 30 Aug 2012 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sins of a Solar Empire: Rebellion sells 100K, breaks Stardock records]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/26/sins-of-a-solar-empire-rebellion-sells-100k-breaks-stardock-re/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/26/sins-of-a-solar-empire-rebellion-sells-100k-breaks-stardock-re/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/26/sins-of-a-solar-empire-rebellion-sells-100k-breaks-stardock-re/#comments Sins of a Solar Empire Rebellion sells 100,000 units digitally, breaks Stardock recordsStardock has announced that Sins of a Solar Empire: Rebellion, the latest stand-alone expansion of the acclaimed RTS hit, has broken company records and become its fastest-selling release to date. The game has sold over 100,000 units since its launch last month, which is not only a solid number for any indie game but also beats the first 30 days of the original Sins of a Solar Empire.

Though the original Sins was also released at retail, Rebellion was not, and the digital plan ended up working better than any of the company's PC retail releases. Stardock's CEO, Brad Wardell, said he believed that selling the game on Steam would take sales away from other channels, but Steam sales of the expansion "didn't cannibalize its GameStop or direct sales."

Releasing digitally had other benefits as well, like letting Stardock announce the release at the last minute. Wardell says both of Stardock's other games this year, Elemental: Fallen Enchantress and Political Machine 2012, will follow the same launch plan.

JoystiqSins of a Solar Empire: Rebellion sells 100K, breaks Stardock records originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Jul 2012 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brad-wardelldigitalexpansiongamestopimpulsepcrebellionreleasessins-of-a-solar-empiresins-of-a-solar-empire-rebellionstardocksteamThu, 26 Jul 2012 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Skyrim's Dawnguard DLC review: Disappointment before sunrise]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/29/skyrims-dawnguard-dlc-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/29/skyrims-dawnguard-dlc-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/29/skyrims-dawnguard-dlc-review/#comments Skyrim's Dawnguard DLC review Looking for blood in all the wrong placesIn Skyrim's "Dawnguard" DLC, I became a vampire. I feasted on the blood of the living. I propelled myself forward at super vampire speed with my leathery grey vampire lord wings. I sapped the energy of my enemies with one boney claw while raising the dead to fight for me with the other, growing my powers ever stronger. I even turned into a swarm of bats and flitted across a room.

It's not as fun as it sounds.

Gallery: Skyrim: Dawnguard (E3 2012)

Continue reading Skyrim's Dawnguard DLC review: Disappointment before sunrise

JoystiqSkyrim's Dawnguard DLC review: Disappointment before sunrise originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Jun 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bethesda-Game-StudiosBethesda-SoftworksdawnguardDLCelder-scrolls-5Expansionkinectmicrosoftpcplaystationps3skyrimthe-elder-scrolls-v-skyrimxboxxbox-live-marketplacezenimax-mediaFri, 29 Jun 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Skyrim's 'Dawnguard' DLC arrives tomorrow 'for English territories,' mid-July elsewhere]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/25/psa-skyrims-dawnguard-dlc-arrives-tomorrow-for-english-terr/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/25/psa-skyrims-dawnguard-dlc-arrives-tomorrow-for-english-terr/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/25/psa-skyrims-dawnguard-dlc-arrives-tomorrow-for-english-terr/#comments Your chance to become a vampire lord and block out Skyrim's sun forever becomes (virtual) reality tomorrow with the launch of Skyrim's first major expansion, "Dawnguard." Of course, if you can't speak English (how are you reading this?!) but can speak French, Italian, German, or Spanish, it won't be available for another few weeks. If you speak something else ... well, you might be skunked. But again, you're probably not reading this if that's the case. Also, you smell like feet. Take that, person who can't understand what we're saying!

Continue reading PSA: Skyrim's 'Dawnguard' DLC arrives tomorrow 'for English territories,' mid-July elsewhere

JoystiqPSA: Skyrim's 'Dawnguard' DLC arrives tomorrow 'for English territories,' mid-July elsewhere originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Jun 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bethesdabethesda-game-studiosbethesda-softworksdawnguarddlcdownloadable-contentelder-scrolls-5expansionkinectmicrosoftpsapublic-service-announcementq3-2012release-dateskyrimthe-elder-scrolls-v-skyrimxboxMon, 25 Jun 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[OnLive now streaming Civ 5, free with Gods and Kings purchase]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/20/onlive-now-streaming-civ-5-free-with-gods-and-kings-purchase/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/20/onlive-now-streaming-civ-5-free-with-gods-and-kings-purchase/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/20/onlive-now-streaming-civ-5-free-with-gods-and-kings-purchase/#comments Buy Civ 5 expansion from OnLive, get Civ 5 free this weekIf you don't own Civilization 5 yet, have heard good things about the Gods and Kings expansion, and have a steady Internet connection to play games on, then streaming service OnLive has a deal for you. It's offering the Civ 5 core game PlayPass for free when you buy Gods and Kings, essentially giving you the entire critically acclaimed title and its add-on for $29.99.

What you're buying here is the chance to play them on OnLive, however, which gives you the benefit of running the game as if you're on a high-end PC (even if you're on a Mac or a low-end PC), as long as you have an Internet connection with the bandwidth to stream it. As long as you've got the pipes for streaming HD video, this is the way to jump on the Civ 5 wagon, as the same deal on Steam will currently run you $60. OnLive says the door's closing on this one at the end of this week.

JoystiqOnLive now streaming Civ 5, free with Gods and Kings purchase originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Jun 2012 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>civciv-5civilization-5expansiongods-and-kingspcWed, 20 Jun 2012 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA['Rage: The Scorchers' pops up on PEGI, smells like DLC to us]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/19/rage-the-scorchers-pops-up-on-pegi-smells-like-dlc-to-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/19/rage-the-scorchers-pops-up-on-pegi-smells-like-dlc-to-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/19/rage-the-scorchers-pops-up-on-pegi-smells-like-dlc-to-us/#comments 'Rage The Scorchers' pops up on PEGI, smells like DLC to usWhen Rage launched last holiday, it made reference to a faction that didn't make it into the final game: The Scorchers. It appears that The Scorchers are back, as a listing on Europe's PEGI game rating website outs something named "Rage: The Scorchers" for Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and PC.

Siliconera spotted the listing and dated it to less than a week ago. For its part, Bethesda hasn't offered a comment, though we've reached out for more info. Thus far, Rage has zero DLC beyond a day-one "Anarchy Edition" bonus. Ahead of the game's launch last year, id Software's Tim Willits told GamesIndustry.biz, "Our immediate plans, of course, are some DLC for Rage," so it stands to reason that DLC of some form for the game is still planned.

Joystiq'Rage: The Scorchers' pops up on PEGI, smells like DLC to us originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Jun 2012 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bethesda-game-studiosbethesda-softworksbethesda-studiosdlcdownloadable-contentexpansionexpansion-packid-softwaremicrosoftpcplaystationps3ragerage-the-scorchersthe-scorchersxboxTue, 19 Jun 2012 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Learning religious proselytizing from Civ 5's 'Gods and Kings' expansion]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/18/learning-religious-proselytizing-from-civ-5s-gods-and-kings-e/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/18/learning-religious-proselytizing-from-civ-5s-gods-and-kings-e/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/18/learning-religious-proselytizing-from-civ-5s-gods-and-kings-e/#comments
Perhaps the biggest addition in Civilization 5's upcoming Gods & Kings expansion is religion. But don't go thinking it's some innocuous cultural addendum - as the Firaxis folks above explain, religion in Civ 5 is all about subjugation.

JoystiqLearning religious proselytizing from Civ 5's 'Gods and Kings' expansion originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Jun 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamescivilization-5expansionfiraxisfiraxis-gamesgameplaygods-and-kingsmacpcreligiontake-twotake-two-interactiveMon, 18 Jun 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Firaxis takes a walk through time with Civ 5's Gods and Kings expansion trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/13/firaxis-takes-a-walk-through-time-with-civ-vs-gods-and-kings-ex/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/13/firaxis-takes-a-walk-through-time-with-civ-vs-gods-and-kings-ex/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/13/firaxis-takes-a-walk-through-time-with-civ-vs-gods-and-kings-ex/#comments
When Civilization 5's Gods & Kings expansion launches next week, it'll have more than a few extra civs and that whole religion thing. Allow the fine folks at Firaxis to walk you through exactly what to be prepared for in this handy - and heavily informative - video, just above.

JoystiqFiraxis takes a walk through time with Civ 5's Gods and Kings expansion trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 Jun 2012 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamescivilization-5expansionfiraxisgameplaygods-and-kingsmacpctake-twotake-two-interactivetrailerWed, 13 Jun 2012 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Saints Row: The Third gets 'freaking super powers' this fall in 'Enter the Dominatrix' expansion]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/saints-row-the-third-enter-the-dominatrix/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/saints-row-the-third-enter-the-dominatrix/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/saints-row-the-third-enter-the-dominatrix/#comments ImageIn what is now becoming an annual tradition, one April Fools' joke is turning into a real-life thing. This time it's Saints Row: The Third's "Enter the Dominatrix" expansion. According to THQ, the new standalone content, taking place after the events of Saint's Row: The Third, will add "freaking super powers" for the price of $30.

Enter the Dominatrix arrives this fall, and it'll bring a whole new angle to the world of the Saints: "alien warlord Zinyak and his malevolent race" are apparently trying to grab up all the Earth's resources and/or women. It sounds like those freaking super powers will come in handy, eh? The dubious character seen above - named "Paul," innocuously enough - will also play some role, which remains to be seen. THQ says we'll hear more about Enter the Dominatrix this summer, so keep an ear flap on your gimp mask unzipped for now.

Update: THQ confirmed to us that Enter the Dominatrix is a standalone expansion and Season Pass owners will have to pay $30 like everyone else.

Update 2: To be extra extra clear, THQ explained to us that Enter the Dominatrix is a standalone "boxed retail product" that can be played without owning the original Saints Row: The Third disc. It will be available solely at retail (on disc) at launch this fall.

Continue reading Saints Row: The Third gets 'freaking super powers' this fall in 'Enter the Dominatrix' expansion

JoystiqSaints Row: The Third gets 'freaking super powers' this fall in 'Enter the Dominatrix' expansion originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 May 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcdownloadable-contententer-the-dominatrixexpansionmicrosoftpcplaystationps3saints-row-the-thirdthqvolitionvolition-incvolition-studiosxboxThu, 03 May 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Binding of Isaac's Wrath of the Lamb expansion is huge, due in late May]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/binding-of-isaacs-wrath-of-the-lamb-expansion-is-huge-due-in-l/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/binding-of-isaacs-wrath-of-the-lamb-expansion-is-huge-due-in-l/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/binding-of-isaacs-wrath-of-the-lamb-expansion-is-huge-due-in-l/#comments ImageThe Binding of Isaac expansion we heard about back in January, titled The Wrath of the Lamb, is almost here. Creator Edmund McMillen announced in a series of tweets that the expansion will arrive in late May, and that it is jam-packed with content: new challenges and achievements, over ten new bosses, over 100 new items, a new character, a new ending, and tons of other new material. "What I'm getting at is there is a lot of extra shit in this damn thing," tweeted McMillen. "We have been working on it longer than the actual game."

The latest screens of The Wrath of the Lamb are in the gallery below. For all of that content, the expansion will only cost three bucks. McMillen also said there's a trailer on the way, but he's busy right now, working with Steam on release details and testing and polishing the game itself.

Gallery: The Binding of Isaac: The Wrath of the Lamb (PC)

JoystiqBinding of Isaac's Wrath of the Lamb expansion is huge, due in late May originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Apr 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>edmund-mcmillenexpansionpcpricerelease-datethe-binding-of-isaacwrath-of-the-lambThu, 26 Apr 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mists of Pandaria tries to breathe new life into an old World of Warcraft]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/19/mists-of-pandaria-tries-to-breath-new-life-into-an-old-world-of/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/19/mists-of-pandaria-tries-to-breath-new-life-into-an-old-world-of/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/19/mists-of-pandaria-tries-to-breath-new-life-into-an-old-world-of/#comments Video games these days have a shorter shelf life than ever before. Titles fall out of the top ten within days or weeks (if they ever get there at all), there are awesome new releases arriving every month or so, and even the biggest games are on a yearly (if that) sequel schedule at this point. And yet World of Warcraft has remained a constant. Blizzard's MMO has held millions of players in sway for over half a decade, and those players have killed countless boars, cleared out endless quests, dungeons, and raids, and have vanquished not one but three world-threatening expansion bosses, in the forms of Illidan Stormrage, Arthas the Lich King, and Deathwing and his Cataclysm.

So Blizzard is perhaps taking on its hardest task ever with the upcoming Mists of Pandaria expansion. There's no question in the halls of the (recently quieter) Blizzard campus in Irvine, California that the game is at a crossroads of sorts. Blizzard's formula for WoW expansions (define a baddie, and lead a player to gear and level up to the final fight) has worked so far, but it's almost as if the company realizes that the old tricks are getting old.

Blizzard needs, then, to take World of Warcraft, one of history's most-played, most-traversed, and most-conquered games, and make it feel new. "This is definitely different fare from any expansion we've tried so far," VP of Creative Development Chris Metzen said in a presentation to assembled press. He then talked about the game on a much longer scale than a few weeks, a few months, or even a Call of Duty-length year. "The big global threat that's coming, to define the next couple years of WoW's gameplay, is really war itself."

Gallery: World of Warcraft: Mists of Pandaria (3/18/12)

Continue reading Mists of Pandaria tries to breathe new life into an old World of Warcraft

JoystiqMists of Pandaria tries to breathe new life into an old World of Warcraft originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Mar 2012 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardblizzard-entertainmentchris-metzenexpansionghostcrawlergreg-streetinterviewj-allen-brackpandapandarenpcscott-mercertalentsupdatewarwarcraftworld-of-warcraftworld-of-warcraft-mists-of-pandariaMon, 19 Mar 2012 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlefield 3's lack of DLC: DICE general manager explains]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/battlefield-3s-lack-of-dlc-dice-general-manager-explains/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/battlefield-3s-lack-of-dlc-dice-general-manager-explains/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/battlefield-3s-lack-of-dlc-dice-general-manager-explains/#comments Battlefield 3 launched on the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and PC in late October of 2011. Approximately a month and a half later, the game's first expansion arrived: "Back to Karkand." Aside from a handful of tweaks since, EA's DICE studio has kept relative radio silence. So much so, in fact, that one prominent Battlefield fan site publicly declared its own silence until DICE spoke up (the developer released a missive the following day).

It is with this recent history -- now four months since Battlefield 3's last content drop, and another three months before "Close Quarters" is set to launch -- that we approached a recent interview with DICE general manager Karl-Magnus Troedsson. In short, what in the world is taking so damn long?

"The reason that we haven't followed up with even more content more quickly, there's a couple of practical reasons," Troedsson told us. "Part of that is that we just need to spend a lot of focus getting the game out. The ambition was to get more packs out earlier, but sometimes you have to prioritize between the base product and what you're doing afterwards." Troedsson also argued that DICE's approach was thematic, not "piecemeal" (Call of Duty's approach), which was a deliberate choice on his studio's part.

"If you prefer to have smaller piecemeal packs every now and then, you can go with that. We prefer to do something bigger that has a specific theme, that has maps, weapons, assignments, persistent upgrades, all this kinda stuff," Troedsson said. Could his studio have gotten out this content earlier? "Probably," he said, but DICE ran into its own limitations. "Sometimes we have limitations to what we can and can't do."

But without any other announced projects, and EA's Danger Close taking responsibility for its own multiplayer section in the coming Medal of Honor game (DICE handled the previous game's multi), it's unclear what other responsibilities are keeping DICE from pushing out Battlefield 3 support content more quickly. We'll just have to assume the majority of the studio is head down on a super secret sequel to Mirror's Edge.

Beyond "Close Quarters," DICE has two more content packs announced for Battlefield 3, including "Armored Kill" in fall and "End Game" in winter. And yes, Call of Duty's Elite DLC drops continue monthly.

Gallery: Battlefield 3 (Close Quarters - Ziba Tower)

JoystiqBattlefield 3's lack of DLC: DICE general manager explains originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Mar 2012 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-3close-quartersdicedlcdownloadable-contenteaea-diceelectronic-artsexpansiongdcgdc-2012karl-magnus-troedssonmicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxTue, 13 Mar 2012 09:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlefield 3: Close Quarters announced for June, two more packs incoming]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/battlefield-3-close-quarters-announced-for-june-two-more-packs/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/battlefield-3-close-quarters-announced-for-june-two-more-packs/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/battlefield-3-close-quarters-announced-for-june-two-more-packs/#comments Battlefield 3: Close Quarters, the first major paid piece of DLC for the game since last December's "Back to Karkand," is coming this June. The expansion includes four maps, 10 weapons and no vehicles -- it's about close quarters, after all.

There will be two more expansions for the game following the June expansion. "Armored Kill" will focus on additional weapons, larger maps, and new drivable vehicles. The second pack, called "End Game," features cover art depicting a lunatic holding a knife. That's the extent of what we know about that one so far.

The news of this expansion comes at a critical time. Frustrations in the Battlefield 3 community has been bubbling into potential action, and EA has maintained radio silence until now.

JoystiqBattlefield 3: Close Quarters announced for June, two more packs incoming originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-3battlefield-3-armored-killbattlefield-3-close-quartersbattlefield-3-end-gameDICEdlcdownloadable-contentEAea-diceElectronic-Artsexpansionmicrosoftpcplaystationps3q3-2012release-datexboxWed, 07 Mar 2012 08:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Paradox Interactive announces A Game of Dwarves, reveals new Magicka concepts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/24/paradox-interactive-announces-a-game-of-dwarves-reveals-new-mag/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/24/paradox-interactive-announces-a-game-of-dwarves-reveals-new-mag/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/24/paradox-interactive-announces-a-game-of-dwarves-reveals-new-mag/#comments Swedish developer Paradox Interactive held an annual convention in its hometown of Stockholm last week, and took the opportunity to announce a brand new title by Zeal Game Studios called A Game of Dwarves. As you can see from the trailer above, the Game has sort of a casual Dwarf Fortress feel, allowing you to build, upgrade, and improve a dwarven clan's headquarters, while also looting and battling whatever mysterious foes happen to be living beneath it.

We hope that trailer announcer gets over that sore throat he seems to have, though; that's one heck of a frog. A Game of Dwarves is due out later this year on PC and PSN -- you can see some screenshots, along with some brand new concept art from the also-announced Magicka expansion, in the galleries below.

Gallery: A Game of Dwarves (1/24/12)


Gallery: Magicka: The Other Side of the Coin (Concept Art)

JoystiqParadox Interactive announces A Game of Dwarves, reveals new Magicka concepts originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-game-of-dwarvesannouncementexpansionmagickamagicka-the-other-side-of-the-coinparadox-interactivepcplaystationps3stockholm-swedenthe-other-side-of-the-coinTue, 24 Jan 2012 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA['The Wrath of the Lamb' will be The Binding of Isaac's only expansion, planned for inclusion with 3DS release]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/the-wrath-of-the-lamb-will-be-the-binding-of-isaacs-only-expa/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/the-wrath-of-the-lamb-will-be-the-binding-of-isaacs-only-expa/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/the-wrath-of-the-lamb-will-be-the-binding-of-isaacs-only-expa/#comments Edmund McMillen anticipates a release of The Binding of Isaac's first and only expansion, "The Wrath of the Lamb," at some point in "the next 2 - 4 months." At least that's according to Mr. McMillen himself, speaking with Joystiq in an email exchange last evening. "If we land the 3DS port, it will include the expansion for sure," McMillen added.

As for the planned Nintendo 3DS version, McMillen doesn't have much in the way of solid news just yet, but the project is moving along. "The only news I have on the 3DS is that it seems possible but it's still going through higher ups to make sure there won't be an issue with the 'religious' aspect," he said. And if the 3DS version doesn't work out, there are apparently other plans in the books.

"If we don't land the 3DS, the publisher I'm talking to has expressed interest in other digital platforms and is currently contacting them as well about the port." Considering the game is already available on PC, Mac, and Linux, we're presuming that means ... somewhere else (XBLA, PSN, Vita, and mobiles come to mind).

He also offered some details on the upcoming expansion, including the news that it will contain "about 50 percent more content." McMillen said the content comprises, "enemies, alt chapters, bosses, items, characters, challenges, new happenings and mechanics as well as a ton of other little details," and after that "nothing else" can be done with the game, "so I'll close the book on it." Which is rather fitting, considering the game's thematic inspiration, no?

Joystiq'The Wrath of the Lamb' will be The Binding of Isaac's only expansion, planned for inclusion with 3DS release originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsedmund-mcmillenexpansionmacnintendopcthe-binding-of-isaacthe-wrath-of-the-lambFri, 06 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Binding of Isaac expands with 'The Wrath of the Lamb']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/05/the-binding-of-isaac-expands-with-the-wrath-of-the-lamb/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/05/the-binding-of-isaac-expands-with-the-wrath-of-the-lamb/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/05/the-binding-of-isaac-expands-with-the-wrath-of-the-lamb/#comments Tired of endlessly replaying Ed McMillen's latest title, The Binding of Isaac? You probably shouldn't be, as that's kind of the point, but there's an expansion on the way should that be the case. McMillen revealed the title of the update via Twitter, naming it "The Wrath of the Lamb," and offering roughly zero details about its content. He did note that he pulled the name from the Catholic Bible's Book of Revelations, and that "whoever wrote this part of the Bible has a profoundly epic imagination."

The only info we've got so far is that it'll cost $3 and will apparently feature a whole mess of new items (over 205), including something called "trinkets" that will passively buff your character. No specific release date is given either, but it's intended to launch at some point in 2012.

JoystiqThe Binding of Isaac expands with 'The Wrath of the Lamb' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Jan 2012 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>edmund-mcmillenexpansionlinuxmacpcsteamthe-binding-of-isaacthe-wrath-of-the-lambThu, 05 Jan 2012 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Shogun 2: Fall of the Samurai brings progress (and death) to Total War]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/29/shogun-2-fall-of-the-samurai-brings-progress-and-death-to-tot/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/29/shogun-2-fall-of-the-samurai-brings-progress-and-death-to-tot/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/29/shogun-2-fall-of-the-samurai-brings-progress-and-death-to-tot/#comments
Sega has announced a new standalone expansion for Total War: Shogun 2, called Fall of the Samurai, that introduces new units, a new campaign map, and new content to the acclaimed tactical strategy title. As you can see in the trailer above, the biggest new addition to the title is the inclusion of more modern Western troops and weapons, including a Gatling gun, as well as British and US troops and marines.

There are six new playable clans to deal with the American, British and French foreign powers, and there are 39 new units in total (including ten new ships), as well as four new historical scenarios to play. Multiplayer is also getting revamped, as are a few other gameplay mechanics, including siege battles.

Sega and The Creative Assembly plan to have the title ready to go in March of next year. If the trailer is any indication, the samurai should probably start making bulletproof armor right about now.

Gallery: Shogun 2: Fall of the Samurai

JoystiqShogun 2: Fall of the Samurai brings progress (and death) to Total War originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 08:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>expansionpcsegashogun-2-fall-of-the-samuraistandalonestrategythe-creative-assemblytotal-wartotal-war-shogun-2Tue, 29 Nov 2011 08:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Magicka takes on Cthulhu and Minecraft in The Stars are Left expansion]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/magicka-takes-on-cthulhu-and-minecraft-in-the-stars-are-left-exp/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/magicka-takes-on-cthulhu-and-minecraft-in-the-stars-are-left-exp/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/magicka-takes-on-cthulhu-and-minecraft-in-the-stars-are-left-exp/#comments Have you and your three wizardly cohorts blown up everything in the universe using your crossbred incantations? No, friend, you haven't. Just ask the subtitle of Magicka's recently announced expansion: The Stars are Left. The add-on isn't just a commentary on your failure to destroy heavenly bodies; it will add a whole new campaign to the title featuring a "horror-mystery inspired by the popular Cthulhu Mythos." Cthul-who? (We kid.)

The campaign, which is set to launch this Winter, will feature new enemies and (assumedly tentacle-faced) bosses, items and, according to a fact sheet sent to us by Paradox Interactive, "we make fun of Minecraft this time." Man, it's about time someone took that game down a peg.

Continue reading Magicka takes on Cthulhu and Minecraft in The Stars are Left expansion

JoystiqMagicka takes on Cthulhu and Minecraft in The Stars are Left expansion originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 27 Oct 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arrowhead-game-studiosdlcexpansionmagickamagicka-the-stars-are-leftParadox-InteractivepcThu, 27 Oct 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Facebook looking to expand Credits to other gaming portals]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/24/facebook-looking-to-expand-credits-to-other-gaming-portals/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/24/facebook-looking-to-expand-credits-to-other-gaming-portals/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/24/facebook-looking-to-expand-credits-to-other-gaming-portals/#comments Facebook's thick, sinewy tendrils continue to twist and worm their way through every facet of the internet's expansive infrastructure, as the social giant has unceremoniously announced plans to expand the Facebook Credits system to other sites. Sandwiched between payment system and graph API updates on the Platform Update developers blog, the brief entry names Gamehouse's Collapse! Blast as the project's initial testbed, adding that interested developers should get in touch.

Rather than using Paypal or their credit cards, users now sign into Collapse! Blast via Facebook, at which point their existing Facebook Credits can be spent on virtual goods. Should the expansion progress beyond these initial testing phases, Facebook Credits may provide appsperience developers with a solution that's easier and cheaper to implement than a proprietary one. Facebook's massive existing install base doesn't hurt things either, and since adoption is the key to standardization, maybe this is the first step towards a Star Trek-esque credits-based utopian future society.

JoystiqFacebook looking to expand Credits to other gaming portals originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 24 Oct 2011 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>developersexpansionfacebookfacebook-creditsmacmobilepctestingMon, 24 Oct 2011 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hang out with Felicia Day in Dragon Age 2: Mark of the Assassin DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/hang-out-with-felicia-day-in-dragon-age-2-mark-of-the-assassin/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/hang-out-with-felicia-day-in-dragon-age-2-mark-of-the-assassin/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/hang-out-with-felicia-day-in-dragon-age-2-mark-of-the-assassin/#comments The Felicia Day-fronted live-action web series based in the Dragon Age 2 universe has been delayed until October. Fortunately, it'll be paired with a companion piece that'll be infinitely more playable. BioWare recently announced a DLC pack for the Kirkwallian RPG titled "Mark of the Assassin," which sees you teaming up with Day's "Tallis" character from Dragon Age: Redemption, and diving through a trap-riddled dungeon in search of a precious gem.

The expansion will be available on October 11 for an undisclosed price. Really, though, how much is too much to ask for being able to hang out with Felicia Day without waiting in a week-long line at Comic-Con?

Gallery: Dragon Age 2 (Mark of the Assassin DLC)

JoystiqHang out with Felicia Day in Dragon Age 2: Mark of the Assassin DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Sep 2011 12:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowaredlcDragon-Age-2dragon-age-2-mark-of-the-assassinexpansionfelicia-daymark-of-the-assassinmicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxFri, 16 Sep 2011 12:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Duels of the Planeswalkers 2012 gets 'Ascend into Darkness' expansion on Sept. 14]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/duels-of-the-planeswalkers-2012-gets-ascend-into-darkness-expa/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/duels-of-the-planeswalkers-2012-gets-ascend-into-darkness-expa/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/duels-of-the-planeswalkers-2012-gets-ascend-into-darkness-expa/#comments Done did all the dueling you could in Duels of the Planeswalkers 2012? Wizards of the Coast is looking to inject some new life into the downloadable title with a new expansion pack come September 14. Titled "Ascend into Darkness, the DLC will include fresh art, new cards for each deck, three new playable decks and several new campaign levels - six single-player levels and eleven Archenemy levels in all.

On top of that, players will also be able to take up the titular role of Archenemy - both locally and via online multiplayer match. Archenemy mode, for the unaware, pits three players against an overpowered opponent. Ral Zarek, a new Planeswalker, will also be included in the DLC.

The only thing we don't know right now is the price, but given that the expansion will be playable at PAX Prime later this month, we'll be sure to bug the guys at the booth.

Gallery: Duels of the Planeswalkers 2012 (Ascend into Darkness)

JoystiqDuels of the Planeswalkers 2012 gets 'Ascend into Darkness' expansion on Sept. 14 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Aug 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ascend-into-darknessdlcduels-of-the-planeswalkers-2012expansionmicrosoftpcplaystationps3psnstainless-gamessteamwizards-of-the-coastxblaxboxWed, 17 Aug 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Just Dance 2 throwing a Summer Party on July 21]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/24/just-dance-2-throwing-a-summer-party-on-july-21/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/24/just-dance-2-throwing-a-summer-party-on-july-21/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/24/just-dance-2-throwing-a-summer-party-on-july-21/#comments Ubisoft has officially shared details on Just Dance 2 - Summer Party, after a retail listing outed the game back in June. Rather than spoil the big new sequel coming this October, Summer Party instead offers 21 already released tracks (previously available as DLC), and teases fans with two new songs months before JD3's release. Summer Party crashes down on July 21 for the Nintendo Wii.

In other words, Summer Party is perfect for your little cousin who doesn't understand the concept of downloading content through his/her Nintendo Wii, or for your friend who loves to warm up with dance in a disconnected part of Antarctica. Head past the break for the full track list from Ubisoft.

Continue reading Just Dance 2 throwing a Summer Party on July 21

JoystiqJust Dance 2 throwing a Summer Party on July 21 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Jun 2011 13:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcexpansionjust-dance-2just-dance-2-beach-partyjust-dance-2-summer-partynintendoq3-2011release-dateubisoftwiiFri, 24 Jun 2011 13:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2 to avoid standalone MMO expansion model [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/15/guild-wars-2-to-avoid-retail-mmo-expansion-model/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/15/guild-wars-2-to-avoid-retail-mmo-expansion-model/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/15/guild-wars-2-to-avoid-retail-mmo-expansion-model/#comments MMORPG developer ArenaNet is no stranger to implementing standalone additions to its subscription-free title Guild Wars, but it sounds like the studio won't follow the same strategy for the game's long-developed sequel. Speaking to Gamerzines, Guild Wars 2 lead designer Eric Flannum explained, "At this time we don't plan to continue with the standalone expansion model," adding that such add-ons "split our player base unnecessarily and also caused us to focus development effort on things that were redundant with the original release of the game such as tutorial areas and duplicates of already existing skills."

Update: An earlier version of this post misunderstood Flannum's message, which does not count out the possibility of traditional expansions -- only standalone add-ons which do not require the base game, such as Guild Wars: Factions and Nightfall. We apologize for the confusion, and thank the commenters who pointed out the error.

JoystiqGuild Wars 2 to avoid standalone MMO expansion model [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Jun 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arenanetexpansionGuild-Wars-2mmommorpgncsoftpcWed, 15 Jun 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[StarCraft 2: Heart of the Swarm preview: Kerrigan, again]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/31/starcraft-2-heart-of-the-swarm-preview-kerrigan-again/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/31/starcraft-2-heart-of-the-swarm-preview-kerrigan-again/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/31/starcraft-2-heart-of-the-swarm-preview-kerrigan-again/#comments When Blizzard announced that StarCraft 2 would be split into three different games years ago, there was quite a bit of weeping and gnashing of teeth -- lots of complaining that the new corporate entity of Activision Blizzard was triple-dipping our wallets. But time heals all wounds and in this case, the great reviews of the full-featured first title didn't hurt either.

So it may come as something of a surprise to be reminded that as much fun as StarCraft 2: Wings of Liberty was, you've got two more campaigns coming your way. At a recent press event inside Blizzard HQ in Irvine, California, we got to take a look at two single-player missions from Heart of the Swarm, the first expansion pack-priced followup, focused on the popular Zerg race.

One note of warning before we begin: There are story elements revealed in these missions that will sorta, kinda spoil the plot of Wings of Liberty if you haven't finished it yet. If you aren't done with Jim Raynor's Terran campaign, play that and then come back. Otherwise, feel free to read on.

Gallery: StarCraft 2: Heart of the Swarm (5/31/2011)

Continue reading StarCraft 2: Heart of the Swarm preview: Kerrigan, again

JoystiqStarCraft 2: Heart of the Swarm preview: Kerrigan, again originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 31 May 2011 03:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrian-kindreganchris-sigatyexpansionkaldirpcprotossstarcraft-2starcraft-2-heart-of-the-swarmstarcraft-2-wings-of-libertyzergTue, 31 May 2011 03:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Two Worlds 2 expansion, 'Pirates of the Flying Fortress,' coming in September]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/16/two-worlds-2-expansion-pirates-of-the-flying-fortress-coming-i/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/16/two-worlds-2-expansion-pirates-of-the-flying-fortress-coming-i/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/16/two-worlds-2-expansion-pirates-of-the-flying-fortress-coming-i/#comments We knew we hadn't seen the last of Two Worlds with a new game planned for next year, but a recent announcement has revealed that we haven't seen the last of Two Worlds, um, 2, either. Topware has launched a website for "Pirates of the Flying Fortress," "the official expansion pack" for the Two Worlds sequel.

The expansion is said to serve up "exotic flair, new enemies, new settings and new weapons," in addition to thunderstorms and rain. New multiplayer maps and single-player content with also be included. Then there's the much anticipated "impact-oriented horse armor."

"Pirates of the Flying Fortress" will launch as a "multi-platform title" (perhaps to be released both as a bundle with the original game and as a DLC add-on) for Xbox 360, PS3, PC and Mac platforms this September. "The good old 'Two Worlds' atmosphere waits," promises the announcement, "which is yet quite different this time around."

JoystiqTwo Worlds 2 expansion, 'Pirates of the Flying Fortress,' coming in September originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 16 Apr 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcexpansionmacmicrosoftpcpirates-of-the-flying-fortressplaystationps3reality-pumptopware-interactiveTwo-Worlds-2xblmxboxxbox-liveSat, 16 Apr 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Magicka: Vietnam expansion announced (no joke!)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/01/magicka-vietnam-expansion/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/01/magicka-vietnam-expansion/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/01/magicka-vietnam-expansion/#comments Well, this is certainly unexpected. We guess Magicka publisher Paradox Interactive wasn't kidding when it said developer Arrowhead Studios would be "a bit daring" with the title's first expansion. Said add-on was revealed today -- and it will take the game's magic-mashing protagonists and drop them into the war-torn jungles of Vietnam. Just check out the debut trailer after the jump!

We've got an appointment to check out Magicka: Vietnam today at GDC, and we'll make sure to let you know if it's just as bizarre as we're assuming it is. Update: Vietnam was not on hand, but we talked about it with Arrowhead. Stay tuned for our coverage.

Continue reading Magicka: Vietnam expansion announced (no joke!)

JoystiqMagicka: Vietnam expansion announced (no joke!) originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Mar 2011 13:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arrowhead-game-studiosdlcexpansiongdc-2011magickamagicka-vietnamParadox-InteractivepcvietnamTue, 01 Mar 2011 13:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlefield: Bad Company 2 Vietnam launched with latest trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/20/battlefield-bad-company-2-vietnam-launched-with-latest-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/20/battlefield-bad-company-2-vietnam-launched-with-latest-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/20/battlefield-bad-company-2-vietnam-launched-with-latest-trailer/#comments Tomorrow marks the debut of the first major expansion to Battlefield: Bad Company 2, with the Vietnam War acting as the backdrop for a whole new set of classes, weapons, and maps. Today ... well, today there's a trailer for it. We do what we can, folks.

Continue reading Battlefield: Bad Company 2 Vietnam launched with latest trailer

JoystiqBattlefield: Bad Company 2 Vietnam launched with latest trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Dec 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-bad-company-2battlefield-bad-company-2-vietnamdicedlceaelectronic-artsexpansionlaunch-trailermicrosoftpcplaystationps3trailervietnamxboxMon, 20 Dec 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Warcraft: Cataclysm sells 3.3 million units in one day]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/13/world-of-warcraft-cataclysm-sells-3-3-million-units-in-one-day/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/13/world-of-warcraft-cataclysm-sells-3-3-million-units-in-one-day/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/13/world-of-warcraft-cataclysm-sells-3-3-million-units-in-one-day/#comments Half of everyone on the planet plays World of Warcraft -- that's just scientific fact -- so, it shouldn't come as a surprise that the game's recently released expansion made quite a splash on its launch day. According to Blizzard's calculations, the Cataclysm add-on sold 3.3 million units within 24 hours of its release, becoming the "fastest-selling PC game of all time." The previous record holder? World of Warcraft: Wrath of the Lich King, which sold 2.8 million copies in one day back in 2008.

Frankly, we're a little appalled at Blizzard. Like, they've obviously found a golden goose here. Why not let other developers create World of Warcraft expansions as well, giving them a chance to capitalize on this lucrative market? Why are they being so darn greedy?

JoystiqWorld of Warcraft: Cataclysm sells 3.3 million units in one day originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 Dec 2010 10:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardCataclysmexpansionmmopcsalessoftwareWorld-of-Warcraft-CataclysmMon, 13 Dec 2010 10:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Angry Birds add-on puts some holiday cheer in your pig murder]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/02/angry-birds-add-on-puts-some-holiday-cheer-in-your-pig-murder/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/02/angry-birds-add-on-puts-some-holiday-cheer-in-your-pig-murder/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/02/angry-birds-add-on-puts-some-holiday-cheer-in-your-pig-murder/#comments Are you looking to fulfill you annual desire to get totally pumped for the holidays, but can't seem to stop playing the iPhone sensation Angry Birds long enough to do so? Thanks to a recently published expansion to Rovio's tower-toppling App, you can now kill two birds with one high-velocity bird. For $0.99 on iOS ($1.99 for the HD version), or for free (but ad-supported) on Android, you can download "Season's Greedings," an add-on that features a new level every day in the 25 days leading up to Christmas. It's like an advent calendar! Only ... like, way more fun.

Purchasing the pack also unlocks the 45-level Halloween expansion for free -- or, if you've already acquired this extra spooky level pack, you can grab "Season's Greedings" in a free title update. We wonder if we can expect a purchase of this new add-on to grant us free admission to the next holiday-themed level pack, "New Year's Evil Pigs," or "Punxsutawney Panic." (Yes, those are made up. For now.)

Download: Angry Birds Seasons [iOS SD: $0.99] [iOS HD: $1.99] [Android: Free]

JoystiqAngry Birds add-on puts some holiday cheer in your pig murder originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Dec 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidangry-birdsangry-birds-seasonsexpansioniosipadiphonemobilerovioThu, 02 Dec 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CrimeCraft's episodic 'Bleedout' expansion starts Dec. 4]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/01/crimecraft-bleedout-expansion-starts-december-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/01/crimecraft-bleedout-expansion-starts-december-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/01/crimecraft-bleedout-expansion-starts-december-4/#comments CrimeCraft, Vogster's free-to-play MMO, is getting its first expansion, a ten-week episodic event called Bleedout. Each week features artwork by a different comic book artist, including Ben Templesmith, Howard Chaykin and Zach Howard. The expansion also includes new missions that, judging by the trailer after the break, mostly involve shooting people in the head and/or neck. We suppose the expansion's title should have been our first clue.

The first episode of Bleedout will launch on December 4 at 7PM ET.

Continue reading CrimeCraft's episodic 'Bleedout' expansion starts Dec. 4

JoystiqCrimeCraft's episodic 'Bleedout' expansion starts Dec. 4 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Dec 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bleedoutcrimecraftcrimecraft-bleedoutexpansionmmopcrelease-datevogstervogster-entertainmentWed, 01 Dec 2010 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Magic: The Gathering - Duels of the Planeswalkers summons third DLC pack on Steam]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/04/magic-the-gathering-duels-of-the-planeswalkers-summons-third/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/04/magic-the-gathering-duels-of-the-planeswalkers-summons-third/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/04/magic-the-gathering-duels-of-the-planeswalkers-summons-third/#comments While the console versions of Magic: The Gathering: Duels of the Planeswalkers are stuck waiting on that third DLC pack, PC users can now boost their virtual card collection through a Steam update today. The third content pack will set budding planeswalkers back $4.99, for which they get two new decks, a plethora of new cards to unlock, new challenges to conquer and, of course, a new single-player campaign to tackle. If you've checked out either of the previous two DLC packs, then you know this is pretty much par for the course.

There's still no timetable for when the DLC will be available on consoles, though we've contacted both Wizards of the Coast and Stainless Games for comment. In the meanwhile, feel free to tap our gallery below for some magical screens.

Gallery: Magic: The Gathering - Duels of the Planeswalkers (Expansion Three)

JoystiqMagic: The Gathering - Duels of the Planeswalkers summons third DLC pack on Steam originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Nov 2010 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcexpansionexpansion-packexpansion-pack-3expansion-pack-threemagicmagic-the-gatheringMagic-the-Gathering-Duels-of-the-Planeswalkerspcstainless-gamesstrategyWizards-of-the-CoastThu, 04 Nov 2010 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WoW: Cataclysm pre-orders now available through Battle.net]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/28/wow-cataclysm-pre-orders-now-available-through-battle-net/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/28/wow-cataclysm-pre-orders-now-available-through-battle-net/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/28/wow-cataclysm-pre-orders-now-available-through-battle-net/#comments If you're eager to hasten the world's demise -- and you've seen the internet, so why wouldn't you be? -- you can now log in to your Battle.net account and pre-order World of Warcraft: Cataclysm. The expansion, which promises to wreck and rearrange the realm of Azeroth, will become available for download at 12:01 a.m. PST on December 7 (and 12:01 a.m. CST in Europe and Russia). Online pre-orders will be granted automatic access to the expansion's content as soon as Blizzard's servers go live.

As with director Roland Emmerich's take on armageddon, there are few caveats you should be aware of before going in. You'll be charged as soon as you place your pre-order, and you will have to log in to World of Warcraft at least once before launch date in order to begin a background download. Cataclysm's Collector's Edition bonuses, like the in-game pet, will only be available with retail copies. Maybe Blizzard is trying to tell you something.

JoystiqWoW: Cataclysm pre-orders now available through Battle.net originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Oct 2010 19:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battle-netblizzardCataclysmexpansionmacpcpre-orderWorld-of-Warcraft-CataclysmThu, 28 Oct 2010 19:10:00 EST<![CDATA[The Sims 3: Barnacle Bay coming this fall]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/31/the-sims-3-barnacle-bay-expansion-coming-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/31/the-sims-3-barnacle-bay-expansion-coming-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/31/the-sims-3-barnacle-bay-expansion-coming-this-fall/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Embark on a quest for booty in the upcoming DLC, "Barnacle Bay," for The Sims 3 -- er, wait, we're mixing up our content here! Rather: You'll get to explore a tropical paradise in the Barnacle Bay, available for download this fall. Whether you decide to be a lowdown, dirty pirate on the hunt for treasure and grog, or a sightseeing tourist looking to soak up virtual sun, is up to you.

The Barnacle Bay area will be sold exclusively through The Sims 3 Store. Within, you'll discover new locales such as Founder's Beach, Goldbeard Galleon Gallery and Pirate's Hideaway -- plus several other locations and NPCs that await your inner Magellan. The expansion pack will also include "nearly two dozen" new items.

Gallery: The Sims 3 - Barnacle Bay

Continue reading The Sims 3: Barnacle Bay coming this fall

JoystiqThe Sims 3: Barnacle Bay coming this fall originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 31 Aug 2010 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>barnacle-baydlceaea-playEA-Redwood-ShoresexpansionpcThe-Sims-3the-sims-3-barnacle-bayTue, 31 Aug 2010 17:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Dawn of War 2 standalone expansion 'Retribution' announced for early 2011]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/17/dawn-of-war-2-stand-alone-expansion-retribution-announced-for/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/17/dawn-of-war-2-stand-alone-expansion-retribution-announced-for/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/17/dawn-of-war-2-stand-alone-expansion-retribution-announced-for/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Relic and THQ have announced the second standalone expansion to the Warhammer 40k-themed RTS Dawn of War 2. The expansion will be called Retribution, and will introduce the series' first multi-race single-player campaign. The first race announced is the Orks, but players will be able to choose other races to play through the campaign as well, meaning you can finally play as something other than Space Marines in the single-player game.

Multiplayer also gets extras in the form of new units, some new maps and a whole new playable race to fight with. There's no word out of Gamescom yet as to exactly which race that is, but given that we've played as Orks, Space Marines and Eldar in the series before, playing as the Tyranids is a pretty good guess (edited) already in the game. Commenters are guessing Dark Eldar. We'll find out for sure when the expansion is released -- it's scheduled for Q1 2011.

JoystiqDawn of War 2 standalone expansion 'Retribution' announced for early 2011 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Aug 2010 21:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Dawn-of-War-2Dawn-of-War-2-Retributionexpansionpcrelease-dateRelicretributionthqwarhammer-40000Tue, 17 Aug 2010 21:20:00 EST