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[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<![CDATA[World of Warcraft: Cataclysm special edition detailed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/17/world-of-warcraft-cataclysm-special-edition-detailed/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/17/world-of-warcraft-cataclysm-special-edition-detailed/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/17/world-of-warcraft-cataclysm-special-edition-detailed/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Hey, you're already paying $14.99 a month to have access to the expansive, quest-strewn lands of World of Warcraft -- why not shell out a few extra bucks to claim the collector's edition of the MMO's upcoming expansion, Cataclysm? The premium, $79.99 version of the add-on, which will only be available in retail stores, just had its contents revealed by Blizzard.

The bundle includes a 176-page art book, a DVD featuring developer commentary and a quick background of the Warcraft universe, a CD of the expansion's soundtrack, a mouse pad, a starter deck and a few bonus cards for the World of Warcraft TCG, and -- the item which will force die-hard WoW players to spring for the special edition -- a "Lil' Deathwing" in-game pet. The expansion is still sans-release date, but the presser announcing this collector's edition promises that information will be divulged "in the months ahead."

JoystiqWorld of Warcraft: Cataclysm special edition detailed originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Aug 2010 12:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Cataclysmexpansionlimited-editionmmorpgpcworld-of-warcraftWorld-of-Warcraft-CataclysmTue, 17 Aug 2010 12:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Preview: City of Heroes: Going Rogue]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/02/preview-city-of-heroes-going-rogue/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/02/preview-city-of-heroes-going-rogue/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/02/preview-city-of-heroes-going-rogue/#commentsFiled under: , ,

I got to play the new Going Rogue expansion for City of Heroes at Comic-Con. I haven't played the six-year-old MMO in a while, so I was out of the loop -- since I'd last played it, Paragon Studios has updated the graphics, added a mission editor, and put out a host of other upgrades and features. But Going Rogue's big feature is something players have been asking about for a while: For the first time in the game, heroes and villains will be able to switch sides with an interesting set of morality quests.

Paragon Studios senior producer Jesse Caceres and the game's art lead, David Nakayama, told me that the alignment change is a natural evolution from all of the other customization choices they've given to players in the past. "One of our strengths is the character creation system," says Caceres, "and with the Mission Architect, players could custom create and craft their own stories, create their own villain groups. We want to give players more options, so with this expansion, we're giving them the freedom to change their alignments from Hero to Villain" (and vice versa).

Continue reading Preview: City of Heroes: Going Rogue

JoystiqPreview: City of Heroes: Going Rogue originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Aug 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>City-of-Heroescity-of-heroes-going-roguecomic-con-2010contentexpansiongoing-roguemission-architectncsoftparagon-studiospcquestsMon, 02 Aug 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Sims 3: Late Night Expansion takes your Sim out on the town this fall]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/20/the-sims-3-late-night-expansion-takes-your-sim-out-on-the-town/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/20/the-sims-3-late-night-expansion-takes-your-sim-out-on-the-town/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/20/the-sims-3-late-night-expansion-takes-your-sim-out-on-the-town/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Looking for a virtual metropolis in which your Sim can par-tay down? EA just announced the next expansion for The Sims 3, called the "Late Night Expansion." The add-on will include an "active downtown scene" where players can "become a local celebrity, member of a music band, mixologist, director, and more." You can also apparently become a vampire, but if the announcement trailer past the break is any indication, you'll just loiter around a lot of alleys. We imagine it's kinda like being a teenager ... forever.

The Sims 3: Late Night Expansion launches this fall.

Gallery: The Sims 3 (Late Night expansion)

Continue reading The Sims 3: Late Night Expansion takes your Sim out on the town this fall

JoystiqThe Sims 3: Late Night Expansion takes your Sim out on the town this fall originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Jul 2010 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaEA-Studio-Showcase-2010expansionlate-nightlate-night-expansionpcThe-Sims-3the-sims-studioTue, 20 Jul 2010 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Sims 3 hits the 'Fast Lane' this fall]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/30/the-sims-3-hits-the-fast-lane-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/30/the-sims-3-hits-the-fast-lane-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/30/the-sims-3-hits-the-fast-lane-this-fall/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Even though The Sims 3 is gearing up to give console gamers the chance to live vicariously through its virtual, incoherent inhabitants in October, it doesn't mean EA has ceased support for the PC version of the game. In fact, there's a new expansion coming this fall, titled "The Sims 3 Fast Lane Stuff" pack.

This new content pack gives players the choice between four different lifestyle options: racing; intrigue; rockabilly; and classic luxury. Each option provides your Sim with custom furniture, outfits, and vehicles suited to the respective lifestyle choice -- there's even a garage for storing and/or pimping your rides. Suddenly, Xzibit's services don't seem so valuable.

If you want to pre-order the $20 add-on, head on over to the EA Store and have at it. In the meanwhile, feel free to swerve into our gallery below for some new screens.

Gallery: The Sims 3 Fast Lane Stuff

JoystiqThe Sims 3 hits the 'Fast Lane' this fall originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 Jun 2010 01:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>add-oneaea-black-boxelectronic-artsexpansionfast-lane-stuffThe-Sims-3the-sims-3-fast-lane-stuffWed, 30 Jun 2010 01:05:00 EST<![CDATA[City of Heroes: Going Rogue dev diary has a change of heart]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/01/city-of-heroes-going-rogue-dev-diary-has-a-change-of-heart/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/01/city-of-heroes-going-rogue-dev-diary-has-a-change-of-heart/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/01/city-of-heroes-going-rogue-dev-diary-has-a-change-of-heart/#comments Do you have any idea how tiring it is to be this evil all the time? It's like, we can only keep up this vault-plundering, mustache-twirling, damselnapping, puppy-kicking veneer before it gets a little long in the tooth, you know? We've long been thinking about seeing how the other half lives -- an opportunity that will soon be afforded to us by City of Heroes upcoming, massive content expansion, Going Rogue.

Check out the developer's diary posted above to see the implications of the game's new alignment-switching feature, and to catch a glimpse at the new environments of Praetoria. We think it looks like a fairly renovated version of Paragon City, only with much more moral ambiguity.

JoystiqCity of Heroes: Going Rogue dev diary has a change of heart originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Jun 2010 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>city-of-heroescity-of-heroes-going-roguecity-of-villainsdev-diaryexpansionheroesmmommorpgncsoftvideovillainsTue, 01 Jun 2010 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Sims 'Medieval' web domains registered]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/01/the-sims-medieval-web-domains-registered/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/01/the-sims-medieval-web-domains-registered/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/01/the-sims-medieval-web-domains-registered/#comments A fan site of all things Simlish, called Infinite Sims, recently uncovered a handful of web domains registered by the ever-stealthy, third-party outfit Corporate Domains, Inc. These reserved addresses could be an indication of an upcoming expansion to the Sims universe -- one that could take the bright, cheerful world of Sunset Valley back into the Dark Ages.

The reserved domain names all include some variation of "thesimsmedieval" or "thesimsgetmedieval," which might hint at the subject matter of the next batch of content for the highly successful franchise. Hey, we wouldn't mind trying to move up the Sim caste system. Maybe learn how to joust? Perhaps go pheasant hunting in the northern wilds? Learn how to relieve ourselves properly in a sturdy waste bucket? No, wait. That last thing sounds terrible.

JoystiqThe Sims 'Medieval' web domains registered originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Jun 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>domaineaElectronic-ArtsexpansionmaxismedievalregistrationThe-Simsthe-sims-medievalTue, 01 Jun 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Users report Magic: The Gathering 'Expansion Pack 2' DLC breaks the game [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/14/users-report-magic-the-gathering-expansion-pack-2-dlc-breaks/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/14/users-report-magic-the-gathering-expansion-pack-2-dlc-breaks/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/14/users-report-magic-the-gathering-expansion-pack-2-dlc-breaks/#comments Update: We managed to get in touch with both Wizards and Microsoft PR, who acknowledged that the launch of the DLC did give users a few problems. However, the "DLC is now running smoothly," so happy downloading! You can find the original post below.

Original post: It would seem the recent injection of fresh cards into Magic: The Gathering - Duels of the Planeswalker has had an unintended effect for some players, with the new DLC apparently crashing the game and displaying only a black screen. Users on both the GameFAQs and Wizards of the Coast forums have reported the same issues.

Downloading the Title Update gave us some hiccups -- specifically, we were booted back to the dashboard after downloading it and then were forced to download the entire Magic: The Gathering - Duel of the Planeswalkers game again. But the actual DLC pack itself didn't give us any problems. We even played a game online and tried restarting the title multiple times to repeat the effect to no avail.

Eric Sorensen from Wizards of the Coast's community team is aware of the issue, and WOTC is working with Microsoft to resolve it. We'll let you know when we're all in the clear.

Source - Wizards of the Coast forums
Source - GameFAQs forums

JoystiqUsers report Magic: The Gathering 'Expansion Pack 2' DLC breaks the game [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 May 2010 01:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>expansionexpansion-packmagic-the-gatheringmagic-the-gathering-duels-of-the-planeswalkersMicrosoftstainless-gamesxblaxblmXbox-360xbox-livexbox-live-arcadexbox-live-marketplaceFri, 14 May 2010 01:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dragon Age: Origins 'Darkspawn Chronicles' DLC coming May 18]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/04/dragon-age-origins-darkspawn-chronicles-coming-may-18/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/04/dragon-age-origins-darkspawn-chronicles-coming-may-18/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/04/dragon-age-origins-darkspawn-chronicles-coming-may-18/#comments Though the pithy in-game dialogue in Dragon Age: Origins and Mass Effect 2 has clearly demonstrated BioWare's collective sense of humor, it appears the company wasn't kidding around when it promised more DLC for its main franchises. The latest Xbox Live Newsbeat has announced a new downloadable chunk of content for Dragon Age: Origins, titled "Darkspawn Chronicles." Aside from its release date (May 18) and its price (400, or $5), nothing else has been explained about the listing.

We've contacted BioWare to ascertain said details. Personally, we're hoping for playable Darkspawn characters. Haven't you always wondered what's going on inside that poor little Genlock's scaly head?

JoystiqDragon Age: Origins 'Darkspawn Chronicles' DLC coming May 18 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 May 2010 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowaredarkspawndarkspawn-chroniclesdlcdragon-age-originsdragon-age-origins-darkspawn-chronicleseaElectronic-ArtsexpansionMicrosoftrpgXbox-360Tue, 04 May 2010 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Vivendi considered digital distribution for WoW expansions]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/30/vivendi-considered-digital-distribution-for-wow-expansions/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/30/vivendi-considered-digital-distribution-for-wow-expansions/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/30/vivendi-considered-digital-distribution-for-wow-expansions/#comments Amidst all the talk of digital distribution versus retail sales at the LA Games Conference today, one big reason arose for game publishers to keep the retail channels open: the midnight launch. While a lot of gamers might tell you that it's a pain for them to schlep out into the cold to pick up the latest game or expansion, publishers actually prefer it. Pascal Brochier was the president of Global Retail at Vivendi Universal Games when it released World of Warcraft's Burning Crusade expansion (one of the biggest retail launches ever), and he says that while Blizzard had the option to digitally distribute that game, it chose not to. "We were patching all the time," he told Joystiq. "It was always in the discussions internally; 'Should we go direct digital or should we go both with retail?'"

In the end, the company wanted the extra exposure that a big retail launch provides. "When you're at the store with all of the events, you actually have people who've dropped [their subscriptions] come back." And being in the stores doesn't just drive return players, it drives new players as well. "The midnight events and all of the functions help people come back who've stopped playing, but also guys who've wanted to try it will be attracted to the event and become new-found players."

A few weeks after launch, says Brochier, Vivendi did enable digital distribution quietly. But even for a game so tied to the online experience, he adds that "retail is a very important critical part. There's also a significant percentage of players who just play through pre-paid cards, and that's retail, that's a retail model. So you've got to find the balance."

JoystiqVivendi considered digital distribution for WoW expansions originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 Apr 2010 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activision-blizzardblizzardburning-crusadedigital-distributionexpansionla-games-conferencela-games-conference-2010midnight-launchretailvivendi-universalworld-of-warcraftworld-of-warcraft-burning-crusadeFri, 30 Apr 2010 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Left 4 Dead's 'The Passing' Achievements unveiled, spoilery]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/20/left-4-deads-the-passing-achievements-unveiled-spoilery/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/20/left-4-deads-the-passing-achievements-unveiled-spoilery/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/20/left-4-deads-the-passing-achievements-unveiled-spoilery/#comments We've had to walk on eggshells to avoid spoiling the twists and turns of Left 4 Dead 2's imminent content expansion, "The Passing," due out this Thursday on PC and 360. This post is ... well, it's no different at all. Posted after the jump is the list of Achievements included in the DLC, a handful of which may ruin certain plot points you might want to avoid until you get your hands on the new chapter. You've been warned!

Continue reading Left 4 Dead's 'The Passing' Achievements unveiled, spoilery

JoystiqLeft 4 Dead's 'The Passing' Achievements unveiled, spoilery originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Apr 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementsdlcexpansionleft-4-deadleft-4-dead-2Microsoftmutationthe-passingvalveXbox-360zombiesTue, 20 Apr 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Blizzard announces a handful of WoW: Cataclysm class changes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/10/blizzard-announces-a-handful-of-wow-cataclysm-class-changes/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/10/blizzard-announces-a-handful-of-wow-cataclysm-class-changes/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/10/blizzard-announces-a-handful-of-wow-cataclysm-class-changes/#comments Blizzard recently announced a cadre of class-specific additions coming to its upcoming ruinous expansion pack, World of Warcraft: Cataclysm. If you're currently rolling through Azeroth, owning fools while playing as a Death Knight, Hunter, Priest, Rogue, Shaman, Warlock or Warrior, you can get an early glimpse at some of the new powers and revamped mechanics the expansion will bring your way.

If you're having a hard time understanding what all these changes really mean, we suggest checking out our loot-obsessed sister site, WoW.com, for a detailed analysis of these changes. For instance, we just learned that the Rogue's new "Smoke Bomb" ability will change them from merchants of death into invisible merchants of death. How fun!

JoystiqBlizzard announces a handful of WoW: Cataclysm class changes originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 10 Apr 2010 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activision-blizzardblizzardcataclysmclassexpansionmmommorpgworld-of-warcraftworld-of-warcraft-cataclysmwowSat, 10 Apr 2010 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Champions Online gets 'Revelation' expansion, goes free for 72 hours]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/23/champions-online-gets-revelation-expansion-goes-free-for-72-h/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/23/champions-online-gets-revelation-expansion-goes-free-for-72-h/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/23/champions-online-gets-revelation-expansion-goes-free-for-72-h/#comments In celebration of today's launch of the free "Revelation" expansion for Champions Online -- or, really, just because it can -- Atari is opening the game up for free play (installer link) beginning at 10 a.m. EST on Friday, March 26 through 10 a.m. EST on Monday, March 29. This isn't the first time the publisher's done so for the Cryptic Studios title.

This time, however, you can also play sans real-world pants.*

*Only in the privacy of your own home

JoystiqChampions Online gets 'Revelation' expansion, goes free for 72 hours originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Mar 2010 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>add-onAtarichampions-onlinecryptic-studiosexpansionfree-weekendmmosans-pantsTue, 23 Mar 2010 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Second Magic the Gathering expansion DLC detailed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/22/second-magic-the-gathering-expansion-dlc-detailed/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/22/second-magic-the-gathering-expansion-dlc-detailed/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/22/second-magic-the-gathering-expansion-dlc-detailed/#comments Jonesing for a few handfuls of new decks for Magic the Gathering: Duels of the Planeswalkers? You could try throwing your real-life Magic cards at the screen as hard as you possibly could, hoping they'll somehow break into the virtual plane of existence. Or, you could take the more intelligent route and wait for the next batch of DLC to drop -- GamerBytes reports the expansion will add three new decks and "a slew of new cards" to the XBLA title.

In addition, the DLC will feature a new single-player campaign (in which two of the new decks will be unlocked), as well as new challenges, personas, Achievements and Avatar Awards. There's no release date on the new content, but we'd previously heard a Spring launch window. Oh, hey -- it's Spring right now!

JoystiqSecond Magic the Gathering expansion DLC detailed originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 22 Mar 2010 18:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cardsdlcexpansionmagic-the-gatheringmagic-the-gathering-duels-of-the-planeswalkerswizardswizards-of-the-coastxblaxblmMon, 22 Mar 2010 18:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Sims 3 expansion beats Star Trek Online in February's PC top 20]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/17/sims-3-expansion-beats-star-trek-online-in-februarys-pc-top-20/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/17/sims-3-expansion-beats-star-trek-online-in-februarys-pc-top-20/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/17/sims-3-expansion-beats-star-trek-online-in-februarys-pc-top-20/#comments NPD has released its monthly list of the top 20 PC games, and while Star Trek Online made a valiant showing in the month of its debut, landing at number two for the main game and number four for the collector's edition, it was beaten in the end by the Sims 3: High End Loft Stuff (yes, "Stuff") content pack. The Sims juggernaut of a brand continued to rock the top 20, claiming six spots total, and perennial favorite World of Warcraft continued to place almost all of its current editions on the list in three different spots.

Other big titles in February were Bioshock 2, the Everquest II: Sentinel's Fate expansion, and Mass Effect 2. Aliens vs. Predator appeared at a miserable number 19, below something called the Mumbo Jumbo Assortment. Full list after the break. We'll say this about PC game players: They know what they like, and they stick with it.

[via Big Download]

Continue reading Sims 3 expansion beats Star Trek Online in February's PC top 20

JoystiqSims 3 expansion beats Star Trek Online in February's PC top 20 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bioshock-2everquest-2expansionfebruarypc-gamesratingssalesstar-trek-onlinethe-sims-3world-of-warcraftWed, 17 Mar 2010 05:00:00 EST