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[Calling 1-800-Magic episode 4]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/03/calling-1-800-magic-episode-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/03/calling-1-800-magic-episode-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/03/calling-1-800-magic-episode-4/#commentsFiled under: ,


The fourth installment of 1-800-Magic is now available on Xbox Live Marketplace. Strangely, the episode isn't available at Rooster Teeth yet, so, for the moment, you're stuck watching from your Xbox 360. In this episode we continue the story of Bitterman in his quest to understand his newfound magical abilities. Now that the series has been established in the first three episodes, the fourth gives it a little twist to keep things interesting. We won't spoil it for you, but suffice it to say it is both funny and intriguing. We're looking forward to future episodes. This is the last episode, so we hope you weren't too attached to the series.

Update: Looks like this is the last episode of the series, so there won't be any more. So sad.

JoystiqCalling 1-800-Magic episode 4 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Jul 2007 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1800magicfasafasa studiosFasaStudiosmachinimamgsmicrosoft game studiosMicrosoftGameStudiosrooster teethRoosterTeethshadowrunTue, 03 Jul 2007 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[1-800-Magic #3 BAMFs onto XBLM]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/27/1-800-magic-3-bamfs-onto-xblm/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/27/1-800-magic-3-bamfs-onto-xblm/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/27/1-800-magic-3-bamfs-onto-xblm/#commentsFiled under: ,


And the cycle of machinima continues. Even as Red Vs. Blue readies for the final curtain, another series is just beginning. The third episode of 1-800-Magic has now landed on Xbox Live Marketplace. Of course, you could always check it out on the intarwebz right now, but we find the HD widescreen view from the couch much more appealing. In case you've missed the series so far, here's a quick nonsensical recap: arguing trolls, talking trees named Frank, bacon, BAMF!, tech support, and magic. That pretty much sums it up.

Joystiq1-800-Magic #3 BAMFs onto XBLM originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Jun 2007 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1800magicfasafasa studiofasa studiosFasaStudioFasaStudiosmgsmicrosoft game studiosMicrosoftGameStudiosrooster teethRoosterTeethshadowrunWed, 27 Jun 2007 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[1-800-Magic continues, argues with tree]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/1-800-magic-continues-argues-with-tree/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/1-800-magic-continues-argues-with-tree/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/1-800-magic-continues-argues-with-tree/#commentsFiled under: ,


The latest episode of 1-800-Magic, from the demented minds that brought you Red Vs. Blue, has hit the airwaves ... er ... internetwaves? The story continues to evolve as the characters learn to deal with magic (and tech support). Oh, and there is a rather protracted argument with a tree (whose name is Frank). And we can't forget the trolls continuing to look for the perfect attack phrase ("smoke 'em" is the new hotness this week). Rather than spoil anything else, why not have a look for yourself and tell us what you think? Be warned though, the video is NSFW on account of some salty language. Check it out after the break.

Continue reading 1-800-Magic continues, argues with tree

Joystiq1-800-Magic continues, argues with tree originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Jun 2007 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1800magicfasafasa studiofasa studiosFasaStudioFasaStudiosmgsmicrosoft game studiosMicrosoftGameStudiosrooster teethRoosterTeethshadowrunTue, 26 Jun 2007 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Win a copy of Shadowrun from X360A]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/win-a-copy-of-shadowrun-from-x360a/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/win-a-copy-of-shadowrun-from-x360a/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/win-a-copy-of-shadowrun-from-x360a/#commentsFiled under: ,


The generous gents over at Xbox 360 Achievements are giving away a copy of Shadowrun to celebrate the 250,000th post on their forums. To enter all you need to do is post your gamertag on this thread, though registration is required. This is definitely a pretty good deal, then again, when is anything free not one? Speaking of free giveaways, we'll be announcing the winner of our The Darkness contest soon, so stay tuned.

JoystiqWin a copy of Shadowrun from X360A originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Jun 2007 08:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>F A S AFASAFASA StudioFASA StudiosFasaStudioFasaStudiosShadow runShadowRunTue, 26 Jun 2007 08:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Shadowrun reviews bother FASA]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/25/shadowrun-reviews-bother-fasa/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/25/shadowrun-reviews-bother-fasa/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/25/shadowrun-reviews-bother-fasa/#commentsFiled under:

On the latest OXM podcast, Shadowrun's own Mitch Gitelman (who we had a chat with on our Fancast) talked with the guys and expressed his anger with how the game's reviews are being calculated. Gitelman's argument is that most of the Shadowrun reviews agree that the game is an innovative, fun and unique FPS experience, but deduct points due to its lack of campaign and a $59.99 price tag. He goes on to say that the game should be reviewed for what it is and not how much it costs as they never said a campaign would be included. It's an interesting argument to say the least as Shadowrun's reviews tend to lean towards what the game isn't. But what say you fellow fanboy? Should reviews take a game's price into consideration or should the content and just the content be rated? It's a difficult topic to tackle, so we're interested in hearing what you think.

[Via Games Radar]

JoystiqShadowrun reviews bother FASA originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Jun 2007 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fasafasa studiosFasaStudiosshadowrunMon, 25 Jun 2007 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Free Shadowrun tips from Gamerscore blog]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/18/video-free-shadowrun-tips-from-gamerscore-blog/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/18/video-free-shadowrun-tips-from-gamerscore-blog/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/18/video-free-shadowrun-tips-from-gamerscore-blog/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Chris Paladino has kindly offered up some Shadowrun tips with video on the frees. In the video, he plays a Dwarf, and in this particular round, focuses on defense, and shows the art of Quick Casting. Quick Casting is casting magic (or throwing grenades/AMGs) without having it bound to a bumper/left trigger. To do this you hold B, select Magic or Tech, then your spell/nade, and pulling the right trigger. He uses this technique with Strangle, whilst having Tree and Resurrect assigned to his left trigger and right bumper, respectively.

That's fine for the purpose of this video, but note that Tree and Res are the the easiest to Quick Cast, since, you can hold the direction for Magic (left) before hitting B. So if you are holding left and strafing, hit B, you're automatically selecting Tree of Life at that point, and can pull the right trigger and cast. Res is slightly higher on the radial menu, but on the left side. Conversely, nades are on the 3 o'clock position, so Quick Casting them is just as simple. All in all, good tips on the use of Strangle, and Quick Casting, and the price tag certainly is easier to swallow, so thank you, Chris.

Do you use Quick Casting when playing Shadowrun? If so, on what Magic or Tech (noting it only works on the nades)?

JoystiqVideo: Free Shadowrun tips from Gamerscore blog originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Jun 2007 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>F A S AFASAFASA StudioFASA StudiosFasaStudioFasaStudiosShadow RunShadowRunMon, 18 Jun 2007 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Shadowrun strategy videos will cost you]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/13/shadowrun-strategy-videos-will-cost-you/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/13/shadowrun-strategy-videos-will-cost-you/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/13/shadowrun-strategy-videos-will-cost-you/#commentsFiled under: ,


Available for purchase off the Marketplace are four brand spanking new Shadowrun video strategy guides that'll teach you sniping locations, teleporting lines and the quickest way to get to the artifact in each map. Very useful information indeed. But the negative cloud surrounding these downloads is that they cost 100 Microsoft points apiece. We're sure these Shadowrun videos showcase only the most special and uber elite strategies, what we call the metaphorical prime cut of the strategic cow, but can't bring ourselves to plop down the cash to find out. Now that we think of it, this content smells eerily similar to those COG tag location videos. Overpriced and, with a quick Googling, completely unnecessary.

JoystiqShadowrun strategy videos will cost you originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 Jun 2007 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fasafasa studiosFasaStudiosmarketplaceshadowrunstrategy guideStrategyGuidexblmxbox live marketplaceXboxLiveMarketplaceWed, 13 Jun 2007 09:15:00 EST<![CDATA[More Shadowrun Demo-lition today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/08/more-shadowrun-demo-lition-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/08/more-shadowrun-demo-lition-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/08/more-shadowrun-demo-lition-today/#commentsFiled under: , ,


The Shadowrun demo hit yesterday, and our little social experiment/mini community event was very successful. That being said, only 20 or 30 of you got to participate in the fun, so we're doing it again. We were pleasantly surprised to find that the party system found in the retail game is present in the demo, making this all the easier to accomplish. But we're upping the ante, not only do you get to play with the die-hard enthusiast of the title, but the promise maker will be living up to his word, showing up at 8:00 PM EDT. If the stars are aligned, the final piece of the X3F puzzle will arrive, but that's merely a maybe.

So, if you're still on the fence about Shadowrun, and didn't get in on the action yesterday, the festivities are going to start within the next 15 to 30 minutes, and go on for a few hours to help spread the word of what a gameplay gem this is. We'll try to make room on the demo event's gamertag for newcomers, but you can still send a message to see if you can get into the party, but check to see that it's online, and in the demo first. Hope to play with you soon, and if response is high, we may continue this after the end of the Halo 3 Beta.

X3F Gamertags:
Richard Mitchell -- SenseiRAM
Dustin Burg -- SuperDunners
David Dreger -- noswaD selkcunK (For Shadowrun Demo)

JoystiqMore Shadowrun Demo-lition today originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Jun 2007 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>F A S AFASAFASA StudioFASA StudiosFasaStudioFasaStudiosShadow runShadowRunShadowrun DemoShadowrunDemoFri, 08 Jun 2007 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Shadowrun demo IS available! You just need to look. [update 1]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/07/shadowrun-demo-is-available-you-just-need-to-look/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/07/shadowrun-demo-is-available-you-just-need-to-look/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/07/shadowrun-demo-is-available-you-just-need-to-look/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Update: Whoo! That was close. Shadowrun now appears under "New Arrivals" .

Silly Microsoft. The Shadowrun demo IS available for download off Marketplace right now. It weighs in at about 1.07 GB, which is similar to the beta's size, and can be found under "all Game Demos". It's got the "New" tag when selected, but for whatever reason, has been neglected to be added to the "New Arrivals" section, which has a couple more pieces of content we're in the process of reporting on. Scroll down and get it now!

As such, our offer still stands: Add this gamertag to your friends list, and we'll play with you and show you why the FPS deserves the attention it's been getting from us.

JoystiqShadowrun demo IS available! You just need to look. [update 1] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Jun 2007 07:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>F A S AFASAFASA StudioFASA StudiosFasaStudioFasaStudiosShadow runShadowRunThu, 07 Jun 2007 07:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Shadowrun demo coming tomorrow]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/06/shadowrun-demo-coming-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/06/shadowrun-demo-coming-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/06/shadowrun-demo-coming-tomorrow/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

It looks like promises made to Mitch Gitelman will have to wait another day, as the Shadowrun demo is going to be hitting Marketplace tomorrow at 2:00 AM PDT, instead of today, as originally planned. Kimona from the game's official forums updated her demo FAQ thread with the new date and time information, which still gives everyone the down low on what will be available in the download.

Fanboys, we entreat you, please play the demo and give this unique first person shooter the chance it deserves. Heck, we'll sweeten the deal: Anyone sitting on the fence who needs proper convincing can call upon our resident Shadowrun aficionado to play with them and show the appropriate ropes. To make things even easier, we have a special gamertag available with an empty friends list, so add it to your own for some Power Station fun tomorrow.

JoystiqShadowrun demo coming tomorrow originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jun 2007 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>F A S AFASAFASA StudioFASA StudiosFasaStudioFasaStudiosShadow runShadowRunWed, 06 Jun 2007 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[CAD's Shadowrun comic is just silly]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/06/cads-shadowrun-comic-is-just-silly/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/06/cads-shadowrun-comic-is-just-silly/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/06/cads-shadowrun-comic-is-just-silly/#commentsFiled under: , ,

While some of you are left with a bitter taste in your mouth regarding our singular blind devotion to Shadowrun, that isn't going to stop us from enjoying humorous comics to feed aforementioned devotion. Today's offering is from Ctrl+Alt+Del, as they look at some of the possible downsides to various Magic or Tech in the game, namely Glider, Summon, and Teleport. The last one, though, we think you can figure out for yourself. Appearances can be deceiving, though, as that particular combination can be deadly.

[Thanks, Zam]

JoystiqCAD's Shadowrun comic is just silly originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jun 2007 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Control Alt DeleteControlAltDeleteCtrl Alt DelCtrlAltDelF A S AFASAFASA StudioFASA StudiosFasaStudioFasaStudiosShadow runShadowRunWed, 06 Jun 2007 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Win Shadowrun from Uncle Gamer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/05/win-shadowrun-from-uncle-gamer/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/05/win-shadowrun-from-uncle-gamer/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/05/win-shadowrun-from-uncle-gamer/#commentsFiled under:


Perhaps you find yourself in the difficult position of liking Shadowrun but not liking the thought of laying down $60 bucks for its multiplayer-only antics. If so, we have the perfect solution for you: don't pay for it at all! Uncle Gamer is giving away a copy of Shadowrun for the low, low price of no dollars. That's zilch, nada, naught, and whatever other words for zero you want to throw at it. Head over to Uncle Gamer for your chance to win. Be warned though, winning will take just a teeny amount of work (and listening), but we think you can handle it.

Our question to you: if you win, what will you do with all the money you save?

JoystiqWin Shadowrun from Uncle Gamer originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Jun 2007 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fasafasa studiofasa studiosFasaStudioFasaStudiosmgsmicrosoft game studiosMicrosoftGameStudiosshadowrunTue, 05 Jun 2007 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Penny Arcade takes on Shadowrun's races]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/05/penny-arcade-takes-on-shadowruns-races/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/05/penny-arcade-takes-on-shadowruns-races/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/05/penny-arcade-takes-on-shadowruns-races/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Penny Arcade's latest comic takes a rather humorous look at Shadowrun's races. In particular, the Troll, and the potential hazards that the RNA Corporation has to take into account when employing such a metahuman. In Tycho's post, he gives his take on the game's party system and gameplay and continues to support and recommend the title in spite of mediocre reviews. Either way, he reminds us that the demo is coming out tomorrow. Speaking of, are any of you still on the fence going to download the demo and give it a shot? We know that some of us here and Fanboy Towers made promises in regards to giving the demo the attention it deserves.

JoystiqPenny Arcade takes on Shadowrun's races originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Jun 2007 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>F A S AFASAFASA StudioFASA StudiosFasaStudioFasaStudiosP APAPenny ArcadePennyArcadeShadow runShadowRunTue, 05 Jun 2007 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Play with the Shadowrun devs on launch day]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/28/play-with-the-shadowrun-devs-on-launch-day/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/28/play-with-the-shadowrun-devs-on-launch-day/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/28/play-with-the-shadowrun-devs-on-launch-day/#commentsFiled under: ,

As part of their launch party fun, the charitable devs over on the Shadowrun team are holding a few screenshot caption contests where the winners will be invited to play with the team on launch day. If your sense of humor is top notch, then they want you to create the funniest caption for the three Shadowrun screenshots that they've posted on the forums. The funniest caption from each contest will get an invite to frag with the dev team in a private Shadowrun match on launch day via Xbox Live. And all winners will also receive a rockin' Shadowrun tshirt. But you must hurry, because screenshot caption entries must be submitted by tomorrow night at 10:00PM eastern. And don't forget to be all funny and stuff.

[Via Hushed Casket]

JoystiqPlay with the Shadowrun devs on launch day originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 May 2007 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contestfasafasa studiosFasaStudiosgiveawayshadowrunMon, 28 May 2007 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Shadowrun Demo coming June 6th]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/22/shadowrun-demo-coming-june-6th/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/22/shadowrun-demo-coming-june-6th/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/22/shadowrun-demo-coming-june-6th/#commentsFiled under: , ,

FASA has given word on when we can expect the Shadowrun demo to hit Xbox Live Marketplace. As a means to give gamers with Halo 3 Beta withdrawal a quick fix, it will go live on June 6th. It will feature Power Station, and the gametype Raid, with Humans and Elves. It also won't have a time restriction for play, so you may frag to your heart's content, and it doesn't have an announced expiration at the moment. Full breakdown of what's in the demo after the break.

Continue reading Shadowrun Demo coming June 6th

JoystiqShadowrun Demo coming June 6th originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 May 2007 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>F A S AFASAFASA StudioFASA StudiosFasaStudioFasaStudiosLive MarketplaceLiveMarketplaceMarket PlaceMarketPlaceShadow runShadowRunX B L MXBLMXbox Live MarketpalceXboxLiveMarketpalceTue, 22 May 2007 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Shadowrun goes gold for 360 and Vista, coming 29th]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/09/shadowrun-goes-gold-for-360-and-vista-coming-29th/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/09/shadowrun-goes-gold-for-360-and-vista-coming-29th/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/09/shadowrun-goes-gold-for-360-and-vista-coming-29th/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Shadowrun, the absolutely inspired first person shooter that combines contemporary weapons, magic and advanced technology has gone gold. The first cross platform PC-360 FPS will be hitting retailers on May 29th, just in time for a blogger's 22nd birthday two days prior. We can't wait to get our hands on title and play against the best keyboard and mouse has to offer. Or at least play the demo first. If you want to know what all the fuss is about, check out our above linked coverage on the game, or our most recent Fancast. Finally, should you make the right decision and pick up this game, take a look at the credits, you may be pleasantly surprised.

JoystiqShadowrun goes gold for 360 and Vista, coming 29th originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 May 2007 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>F A S AFASAFASA StudioFASA StudiosFasaStudioFasaStudiosLive AnywhereLiveAnywhereShadow runShadowRunXbox LiveXboxLiveWed, 09 May 2007 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Shadowrun so wants to be Halo]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/04/shadowrun-so-wants-to-be-halo/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/04/shadowrun-so-wants-to-be-halo/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/04/shadowrun-so-wants-to-be-halo/#commentsFiled under:


Over at FASA Studios' IGN blog they posted a few screenshots of Shadowrun from back in the good ole days, way back when they were prototyping the game IN Halo's engine. As you see above, in the earliest stages they simple broke open the Halo code, popped some Elf and Troll heads on a few character models, colored up the HUD a little bit, and there you have it ... instant Shadowrun prototype! But thank god the screens are from the prototype and not the final build, otherwise someone would have some serious explaining to do. Head on over to FASA's IGN blog and read about what goes into creating great maps, it'll make you have one of those cool "ah ha" moments.

[Via Shadowrun the blog]

JoystiqShadowrun so wants to be Halo originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 May 2007 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bungiefasa studiosFasaStudioshaloshadowrunFri, 04 May 2007 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Shadowrun Achievements pinged by Enhanced Vision]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/02/shadowrun-achievements-pinged-by-enhanced-vision/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/02/shadowrun-achievements-pinged-by-enhanced-vision/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/02/shadowrun-achievements-pinged-by-enhanced-vision/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Matt Webster, better known as "fall" in the Shadowrun community, played the retail version of the game, revealing the Achievements to the world. Overall, they seem pretty balanced, actually encouraging players to give various magic, races and weapons their due play time. The cool thing is because of the lack of ranked matches, unless specified, you'll be able to get Achievements in private games with your friends. We all know how difficult the alternative can be. On top of that we've got 6 Secret Achievements, including the lone one worth 100 Gamerscore. So, Training Levels aside, what do you plan on trying to unlock first?

JoystiqShadowrun Achievements pinged by Enhanced Vision originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 May 2007 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AchievementAchievementsF A S AFASAFASA StudioFASA StudiosFasaStudioFasaStudiosShadow RunShadowRunWed, 02 May 2007 17:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Shadowrun Devs to have IRC chat with fans]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/25/shadowrun-devs-to-have-irc-chat-with-fans/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/25/shadowrun-devs-to-have-irc-chat-with-fans/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/25/shadowrun-devs-to-have-irc-chat-with-fans/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Matt Webster, aka fall over at the Shadowrun Forums, has announced that since the beta is ending on the 30th (We know, it sucks), the devs at FASA Studio will be having an IRC chat that Monday, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM PDT. There are going to be prizes available, so if the fact it's Shadowrun didn't sway you, free swag should definitely do the trick. It will take place in the #Shadowrun.FASA chat channel, on the Gamesurge server. Will you join in on the fun on IRC, or the beta itself on its last day?

[Via HushedCasket]

JoystiqShadowrun Devs to have IRC chat with fans originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Apr 2007 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>F A S AFASAFASA studioFASA studiosFasaStudioFasaStudiosI R CIRCShadow runShadow run betaShadowRunShadowRunBetaWed, 25 Apr 2007 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[FASA talks Shadowrun's take on teamwork]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/29/fasa-talks-shadowruns-take-on-teamwork/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/29/fasa-talks-shadowruns-take-on-teamwork/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/29/fasa-talks-shadowruns-take-on-teamwork/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Bill Fulton, a Game Designer at FASA, put up a blog entry at IGN discussing the implementation of teamwork in Shadowrun. He goes on to discuss the interdependent dynamic of the races and how a team requires a proper balance of Elves, Trolls, Humans and Dwarves to perform well. He then touches on the communication aspect, and the measures at which FASA went in order to help keep your teammates informed on what's going on. The Situational Awareness system is really handy for those who can't verbalize that tactical information efficiently, or better yet, help those out who aren't using a headset. Finally, he touches on the money aspect of the game, going into detail about how players are rewarded and penalized for their team based actions. For his full entry, click the "Read" link below.

JoystiqFASA talks Shadowrun's take on teamwork originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Mar 2007 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>F A S AFASAFASA StudioFASA StudiosFasaStudioFasaStudiosShadow RunShadowRunThu, 29 Mar 2007 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Want in the Shadowrun beta?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/26/want-in-the-shadowrun-beta/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/26/want-in-the-shadowrun-beta/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/26/want-in-the-shadowrun-beta/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Xbox 360 Achievements is giving away two beta invites to Shadowrun. So, if you want a chance to play in the beta and either didn't sign up, or feel your chances of getting in with the weekly lump of newcomers is too slim, then this is your shot. The contest is pretty easy, shamelessly plug x360a somewhere on the interwebs before 11:59 (GMT) on Wednesday, March 28th. Sure, the free publicity is a little cheesy, but Shadowrun is Shadowrun, and the more people who get a taste of how awesome and deep this unique FPS is, the better. Full rules are available at the accompanying thread.

JoystiqWant in the Shadowrun beta? originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Mar 2007 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>F A S AFASAFASA StudioFASA StudiosFasaStudioFasaStudiosShadow RunShadow Run BetaShadowRunShadowrun BetaShadowRunBetaMon, 26 Mar 2007 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Shadowrun boxart, release in early June?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/23/shadowrun-boxart-release-in-early-june/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/23/shadowrun-boxart-release-in-early-june/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/23/shadowrun-boxart-release-in-early-june/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Com Raven, over at the Shadowrun forums came across the boxart for Shadowrun at EBgames, albeit for the PC version. It looks pretty nice and has some cool action in the foreground and background. The RNA teleporting Human weilds a Katana with a Troll with Glider in tow (commonly referred to as a "floating tank"). The Lineage Troll and Human return fire with a minigun and rifle, respectively. Also worth noting is that the Pre-Release is listed as shipping on the 29th of May, so perhaps Shadowrun is due in early June? Full resolution boxart also available for your scrutiny.

[Thanks, Com Raven]

JoystiqShadowrun boxart, release in early June? originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 Mar 2007 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>F A S AFASAFASA StudioFASA StudiosFasaStudioFasaStudiosShadow RunShadowRunFri, 23 Mar 2007 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Shane Kim vs. Shadowrun haters: Fight!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/21/shane-kim-vs-shadowrun-haters-fight/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/21/shane-kim-vs-shadowrun-haters-fight/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/21/shane-kim-vs-shadowrun-haters-fight/#commentsFiled under:


In a recent interview with Gamasutra, Shane Kim spoke at length about Microsoft's decision to turn Shadowrun -- a classic pen and paper RPG franchise -- into a first-person shooter. Gamasutra notes that many Shadowrun fans were (understandably) miffed when they discovered that the new Shadowrun title would be an FPS. In response, Kim states that Microsoft has been battling that reception and trying to convince players that the game is worthy on its own merits. Kim notes that while Shadowrun may not be an RPG, fans will be pleased to see that FASA has been faithful to the Shadowrun universe while adapting it to an FPS. Kim goes on to say that many skeptical Shadowrun fans have come away impressed after actually playing the game. Kim believes word of mouth is what's needed to convince the rest.

With the NDA on the Shadowrun beta lifted, you can rest assured that you'll be getting plenty "word of mouth" from us in the near future.

Any Shadowrun fans out there also on the beta? What do you think, is Shadowrun for the 360 faithful to its roots?

JoystiqShane Kim vs. Shadowrun haters: Fight! originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Mar 2007 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fasa studiofasa studiosFasaStudioFasaStudiosmgsmicrosoft game studiosMicrosoftGameStudiosshadowrunWed, 21 Mar 2007 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Shadowrun Beta NDA lifted]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/20/shadowrun-beta-nda-lifted/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/20/shadowrun-beta-nda-lifted/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/20/shadowrun-beta-nda-lifted/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Over the past 4 months, beta testers for Shadowrun have had to acknowledge the NDA and keep tight lipped about the goings on in the game. Today, FASA officially lifted the NDA, and testers are allowed to speak freely about their experiences in the game. FASA reminds us that the beta does not use final art, and to consult their screenshots to get an idea of how the game will look. Also, the gameplay is constantly being tweaked and balanced, including feedback from the testers themselves having a prominent effect.

For example, before the patch when it was just Elves and Humans with a portion of the Tech and Magic, the shotgun was not that effective. After the patch added all the remaining tech, magic and races, FASA also changed the balance of the weapons, giving the shotgun a significant boost in power. Some think it's been given too much power and that it's effectiveness at range should be reduced. When running into FASA devs online, as they do play the beta frequently, they've said that the shotgun's current stats aren't final, though they are closer than in the initial build.

Another example would be that in the beta, Humans take a smaller penalty to their available essence than any other race for the tech they equip. It's been confirmed that there will be no penalty to their essence for any tech equipped, which will drastically change the balance of the game between now and June. In any case, should any extraordinary occurrences take place in the beta, our blogging testers will definitely keep you up to date.

JoystiqShadowrun Beta NDA lifted originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Mar 2007 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BetaF A S AFASAFASA StudioFASA StudiosFasaStudioFasaStudiosN D ANDANon Disclosure ActNon Disclosure AgreementNonDisclosureActNonDisclosureAgreementShadow runShadow Run BetaShadowRunShadowrun BetaShadowrunBetaTue, 20 Mar 2007 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[No custom game types in Shadowrun]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/16/no-custom-game-types-in-shadowrun/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/16/no-custom-game-types-in-shadowrun/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/16/no-custom-game-types-in-shadowrun/#commentsFiled under:


In an interview with GameSpot, FASA's Bill Fulton revealed that Shadowrun will not support custom game types for multiplayer. In other words, players will only be able to play the three specific game types that ship with Shadowrun when it launches this June. Fulton told GameSpot that FASA decided not to have custom game types because it caused player confusion. In his words: "we don't support playing public multiplayer games with custom modes. It often just leads to awkward situations where you join a game playing something weird that you don't want to play." We're not really sure we follow Fulton's reasoning, as custom games are typically limited to friends only. At any rate, Fulton goes on to say that there is nothing that prevents players from agreeing to certain "house rules," but Shadowrun contains no hard code to support them.

So, if you want to play nothing but snipers and katanas, you'll have to rely on the honor system. Does this development affect your anticipation of Shadowrun?

[Via Shadowrun the Blog]

JoystiqNo custom game types in Shadowrun originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Mar 2007 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fasafasa studiosFasaStudiosmicrosoft game studiosMicrosoftGameStudiosshadowrunFri, 16 Mar 2007 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Shadowrun beta invites sent out]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/16/shadowrun-beta-invites-sent-out/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/16/shadowrun-beta-invites-sent-out/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/16/shadowrun-beta-invites-sent-out/#commentsFiled under: ,

It's time for Shadowrun fans to get pumped up, because a new batch of beta invites have been sent out! Yesterday, Microsoft notified lucky Xbox Live members that they were in the beta by sending out invite codes via email. So, if you haven't received one yet then Microsoft didn't think you were cool enough. For those of you lucky enough to get in the Shadowrun beta all you have to do is download the 888MBs and start playing. And a big thank you goes out to all the fanboys who flooded our inbox with this tip. It's awesome to see such eloquent use of the tips form and excitement for the beta ... you guys rock! Quit reading already, check your email, and get online to play some Shadowrun!

[Thanks, to everyone who sent this in]

JoystiqShadowrun beta invites sent out originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Mar 2007 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betafasafasa studiosFasaStudiosshadowrunxbox liveXboxLiveFri, 16 Mar 2007 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[FASA wants you for Shadowrun LAN test]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/14/fasa-wants-you-for-shadowrun-lan-test/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/14/fasa-wants-you-for-shadowrun-lan-test/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/14/fasa-wants-you-for-shadowrun-lan-test/#commentsFiled under: ,

Microsoft and FASA Studios want you to test Shadowrun at their Redmond campus, that is if you are a l33t gamer. FASA is testing out some Shadowrun LAN style this Saturday, March 17th and needs some testers. The requirements for this four hour LAN session are that you need to be 18 years of age or older, live near the Redmond area, and either ranked in a major PC/console tournament or have a rank of 32+ in Halo 2. If you feel you are more than qualified then head over to the official forums for details on how to sign up.

How freakin' cool is that? Being invited to the Redmond campus to play some Shadowrun with other competitive gamers in a LAN setting ... can you say sweetness? We only hope the few lucky gamers will be treated like royalty and showered with finest sodas and munchies Microsoft can buy.

[Thanks, Eric]

JoystiqFASA wants you for Shadowrun LAN test originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Mar 2007 02:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fasafasa studiosFasaStudiosmicrosoftplaytestredmond campusRedmondCampusshadowruntestWed, 14 Mar 2007 02:45:00 EST<![CDATA[EGM: Shadowrun releases in April]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/12/egm-shadowrun-releases-in-april/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/12/egm-shadowrun-releases-in-april/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/12/egm-shadowrun-releases-in-april/#commentsFiled under:


The never sleeping spies at EGM report that Shadowrun will release next month. This comes as a bit of a surprise, especially considering that FASA would only say "spring" when we inquired about a release date last week at GDC. Of course, if the latest EGM is right, we certainly aren't going to complain. We enjoyed our time with the game at GDC and are looking forward to taking on the real thing. Anyone planning on picking Shadowrun up if it launches next month?

JoystiqEGM: Shadowrun releases in April originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Mar 2007 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fasafasa studiofasa studiosFasaStudioFasaStudiosshadowrunMon, 12 Mar 2007 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC 07: Shadowrun hands on]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/06/gdc-07-shadowrun-hands-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/06/gdc-07-shadowrun-hands-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/06/gdc-07-shadowrun-hands-on/#commentsFiled under: ,


The room is set up with two very large Samsung HDTVs. In front of one monitor is a slick gaming mouse and keyboard. In front of the other is an Xbox 360 controller. We sit through the expected spiel: Shadowrun has magic, trolls, dwarves, all that stuff. But how does it play? Is it fun? Microsoft's Michael Wolf and FASA's Technical Chraracter Designer, Michael Lowrance, sure make it look fun. Finally, we get our shot (that's me and two folks from Game Informer). I'm holding a pad, my foe wields the KB and mouse. I'm a dwarf. He's a troll. Time to ask it again: is it fun?

Continue reading GDC 07: Shadowrun hands on

JoystiqGDC 07: Shadowrun hands on originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Mar 2007 16:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fasa studiofasa studiosFasaStudioFasaStudiosGDC-2007gdc07shadowrunTue, 06 Mar 2007 16:05:00 EST<![CDATA[FASA sheds light on Shadowrun's offline experience]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/06/fasa-sheds-light-on-shadowruns-offline-experience/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/06/fasa-sheds-light-on-shadowruns-offline-experience/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/06/fasa-sheds-light-on-shadowruns-offline-experience/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Eurogamer sat down with Mitch Gitelman and went over some Shadowrun details. First off, Mitch clarifies that in terms of the solitary experience, there are six training sessions that players can play, after each of which there is a skirmish match against bots for you to test out the related game mechanics from that lesson. On top of that, you can play matches against bots on any gametype in any arena to practice strategy and learn the maps.

So while there may not be any split screen, you still can play offline against bots who are perfectly capable of using the tech and magic effectively. They'll resurrect you if you die, teleport to flank enemies, and call out enemy positions using Enhanced Vision and Situational Awareness. The interview also has details about the online experience, confirming that there won't be ranked matches. Although, we now know they are using the TrueSkill equation for matchmaking purposes, but not showing players what that ranking is. Expect a hands-on report from Richard down at GDC soon.

JoystiqFASA sheds light on Shadowrun's offline experience originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Mar 2007 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>F A S AFASAFASA StudioFASA StudiosFasaStudioFasaStudiosShadow RunShadowRunTue, 06 Mar 2007 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Shadowrun lacking campaign and split screen [update 1]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/06/shadowrun-lacking-campaign-and-local-multiplayer/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/06/shadowrun-lacking-campaign-and-local-multiplayer/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/06/shadowrun-lacking-campaign-and-local-multiplayer/#commentsFiled under: ,

Over on the official Shadowrun online forums a question was posed to whether or not you could play local multiplayer split screen online or offline after hearing a rumor that there wouldn't be the option. In came Kimona, lead program manager of FASA Studios, to confirm that there indeed would be no local (LAN style) multiplayer or split screen for that matter. According to Kimona, the reasoning behind the choice was to "focus on making what we have even more polished and clean". And with information we learned earlier we now know that Shadowrun will not have any campaign mode or local multiplayer split screen as it is strictly an online multiplayer game. So Shadowrun enthusiasts, we think that not including split screen kinda sucks, but what's your opinion on the way things are shaping up?

Update 1: We've made a mistake guys and read the forum's question wrong. What Kimona was talking about was having no online or offline split screen and says nothing about system link or local multiplayer. So, there will be system link goodness, but simply no split screen ... sorry for the confusion.

[Via IGN]

JoystiqShadowrun lacking campaign and split screen [update 1] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Mar 2007 00:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fasa studiosFasaStudiosliveonline multiplayerOnlineMultiplayershadow runshadowrunxbox liveXboxLiveTue, 06 Mar 2007 00:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Shadowrun PC cross-platform requires Live Gold]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/05/shadowrun-pc-cross-platform-requires-live-gold/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/05/shadowrun-pc-cross-platform-requires-live-gold/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/05/shadowrun-pc-cross-platform-requires-live-gold/#commentsFiled under: , ,


In the latest Shadowrun trailer, there is a little snippet that you Games for Windows users may want to pay attention to. We all know that to play Shadowrun's Xbox 360 version online, you're going to need an Xbox Live Gold account. Likewise, to play Shadowrun cross-platform on Vista, you're going to need a Gold Live account for Windows. At this point, there hasn't been any pricing announced with regards to Gold Live accounts on Vista, so there's no telling what may be the better deal. Also, given that they explicitly state "cross platform", that may mean that PC only servers may be playable with Silver Live accounts and will be free of charge. Interesting food for thought. Do any of you plan on playing Shadowrun on your PC?

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqShadowrun PC cross-platform requires Live Gold originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Mar 2007 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Cross platformcross-platformCrossPlatformF A S AFASAFASA studioFASA StudiosFasaStudioFasaStudiosrunShadowShadow runShadowRunWindows LiveWindowsLiveXbox LiveXboxLiveMon, 05 Mar 2007 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New Shadowrun trailer impresses]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/02/new-shadowrun-trailer-impresses/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/02/new-shadowrun-trailer-impresses/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/02/new-shadowrun-trailer-impresses/#commentsFiled under:


This post was written on Wednesday, when the previously announced Shadowrun trailer was briefly available from the Shadowrun website. Lucky for us, we managed to grab it before it was mysteriously pulled. Unfortunately, the uploaded trailer disagreed with YouTube. But, now the trailer is all over the place, so, without further ado, we present you with the latest Shadowrun trailer. The trailer is actually pretty slick. We like the fact that it emphasizes tactics over pure firepower or twitch reflexes. That's a message that Microsoft is going to have to make loud and clear if they want Shadowrun to appeal to more than just the hardcore audience. Then again, we pretty much represent the hardcore audience, so we'll be plenty happy as long as the game delivers the goods. You can watch the trailer after the break.

Continue reading New Shadowrun trailer impresses

JoystiqNew Shadowrun trailer impresses originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Mar 2007 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fasa studiosFasaStudioslive anywhereLiveAnywhereshadowrunxbox liveXboxLiveFri, 02 Mar 2007 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Shadowrun questions answered]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/28/shadowrun-questions-answered/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/28/shadowrun-questions-answered/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/28/shadowrun-questions-answered/#commentsFiled under:


There's a canned Shadowrun Q&A floating around that details some of the game's lauded features. First of all, the question and answer session explains Live Anywhere and how it works on a PC. Essentially, it's exactly the same as it is on Xbox 360. Playing on Vista, players will have access to voice chat, friends lists, gamerscore, acheivements, and (eventually) Marketplace. The rest of the interview reads more or less like a laundry list to propagate the game's bullet points. For example, the controller vs. mouse debate is covered, with FASA studio manager, Mitch Gitelman, who notes that the game was designed for both from the ground up. Gitelman says that approximately half the testing team are Counter-Strike players and the other half are Halo players, and none complain about unfair advantages. While mouse players may have an aiming advantage, they can still be outclassed by players with a better grasp on magic and techniques. Finally, the game supports 16 players online and should ship with 8-10 maps. Hit the "read" link for the Q&A.

In related news, the official Shadowrun website should post a new trailer some time today. We'll keep you posted.

JoystiqShadowrun questions answered originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Feb 2007 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fasafasa studiofasa studiosFasaStudioFasaStudioslivelive anywhereLiveAnywhereshadowrunxbox liveXboxLiveWed, 28 Feb 2007 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Never mind the art, here's a Shadowrun preview]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/25/never-mind-the-art-heres-a-shadowrun-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/25/never-mind-the-art-heres-a-shadowrun-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/25/never-mind-the-art-heres-a-shadowrun-preview/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


As the first game under the Windows Live brand to bring both PC and Xbox 360 gamers together, Shadowrun isn't the most casual-friendly title imaginable. So unexpectedly complex that after the initial training exercises and multiplayer matches, we were overwhelmed to say the least. A few hours and a dozen or so matches later, it hadn't fully connected, but the pieces were starting to fall into place.

Like we said in our previous coverage of the game, Shadowrun is about finding your niche and sticking to it. In other shooters, your niche can be as simple as controlling the rocket launcher or defending the flag. In Shadowrun, it's defined by the powers you equip, how you utilize them and what role you take in your group. Even if you consider yourself a sponge for tactical knowledge, a learning curve this high won't be conquered in your first hour of play. And for a high profile, predominantly multiplayer shooter, that could spell trouble for Microsoft and FASA Studios.

Gallery: Shadowrun

Continue reading Never mind the art, here's a Shadowrun preview

JoystiqNever mind the art, here's a Shadowrun preview originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 25 Feb 2007 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>call of dutyCallOfDutycounter-strikefasa studiosFasaStudioshalomicrosoft game studiosMicrosoftGameStudiosPCshadowrunXbox-360Sun, 25 Feb 2007 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Shadowrun: controller vs. mouse. Fight!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/23/shadowrun-controller-vs-mouse-fight/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/23/shadowrun-controller-vs-mouse-fight/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/23/shadowrun-controller-vs-mouse-fight/#commentsFiled under:


Shadowrun, in a way, is Microsoft's great white hope. Shadowrun is poised to launch Live Anywhere, the extension of Xbox Live that allows players on PC to share game space with players on the Xbox 360. Hell, even cell phones are being thrown into the mix. VelocityGirl is thrilled. Shadowrun, in particular, raises some questions. Scratch that. It raises one question: how will controller players fare against the deadly mouse and keyboard combo? According to Joystiq's recent play test, pretty damned well. That's right, Joystiq was getting the tobacco juice beaten out of them by one of the devs, Mitch Gitelman. Gitelman was using a PC, but much to the surprise of the Joystiq team, he was using an Xbox 360 controller. Granted, Shadowrun was built from the ground up to accommodate both controllers and the KB & mouse combo, but it's a surprising result nonetheless. Joystiq notes that neither setup proved overwhelmingly advantageous -- though the controller was significantly faster at navigating the radial menus at the beginning of each match.

Long story short, if Microsoft really wants to converge the Xbox 360 and its Games for Windows brand, Shadowrun just might be the game to do it. Hit the "read" link for the full story. Be sure to check out Joystiq's gallery of images while your at it.

JoystiqShadowrun: controller vs. mouse. Fight! originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 Feb 2007 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fasa studiosFasaStudiosgames for windowsGamesForWindowslive anywhereLiveAnywheremicrosoft game studiosMicrosoftGameStudiosshadowrunFri, 23 Feb 2007 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Shadowrun: CTF with a magical twist]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/10/shadowrun-ctf-with-a-magical-twist/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/10/shadowrun-ctf-with-a-magical-twist/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/10/shadowrun-ctf-with-a-magical-twist/#commentsFiled under: ,


GameTrailers snagged a couple of videos from Shadowrun at CES. Qualms about the graphics aside, the game looks like it could be a lot of fun. These two videos show off some of the magic used in the game, including the tree of life -- which heals anyone who stands under it, enemies included -- and the teleportation spell. We dig the radial selection menus, though it looks like the player in the video struggled with it a little. Also, the teleportation seems a little confusing, though it will probably make more sense when we're the ones behind the controller. Check out the video above and the other after the break and tell us what you think.

Continue reading Shadowrun: CTF with a magical twist

JoystiqShadowrun: CTF with a magical twist originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Jan 2007 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fasa studiofasa studiosFasaStudioFasaStudiosshadowrunWed, 10 Jan 2007 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[More Shadowrun, no TrueSkill matchmaking]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/07/more-shadowrun-no-trueskill-matchmaking/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/07/more-shadowrun-no-trueskill-matchmaking/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/07/more-shadowrun-no-trueskill-matchmaking/#commentsFiled under: ,


We reported yesterday that Shadowrun will feature a party based matchmaking system, flying in the face of Epic's claims that Microsoft does not allow the feature. It looks like we might owe Epic an apology. 360Arcadians revealed in an interview with Knuckles Dawson, who had a chance to actually play Shadowrun, that the game will not use TrueSkill. TrueSkill is Microsoft's in house matchmaking system, and according to Knuckles, it was tossed by FASA -- creators of Shadowrun -- because it does not allow friends in ranked matches. FASA has opted instead to use their own matchmaking system.

Gears of War uses TrueSkill, so it looks like Epic's reasoning for not including a party system is valid after all. The interview also contains lots of information about Shadowrun. If you're interested in Shadowrun, you should definitely give it a listen.

JoystiqMore Shadowrun, no TrueSkill matchmaking originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Dec 2006 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fasafasa studiosFasaStudiosmicrosoft game studiosMicrosoftGameStudiosshadowrunThu, 07 Dec 2006 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Shadowrun preview at FASA]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/25/shadowrun-preview-at-fasa/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/25/shadowrun-preview-at-fasa/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/25/shadowrun-preview-at-fasa/#commentsFiled under:

Over at Method Director they received some special treatment from FASA studios and got some hands on time with Shadowrun. I honestly haven't been too much in the loop with this game, but after watching the YouTube video (embedded after the break) and the description of the game ... it has some potential. Blending technology with magic is like peanut butter and chocolate (word to Cliff). Given that it takes a LOT of work to make a FPS new and fresh, Shadowrun has peaked my interest. Can anyone out in fanboy land shed some more light on this game and whether or not your interest too has been peaked by this blog post?

Continue reading Shadowrun preview at FASA

JoystiqShadowrun preview at FASA originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 25 Nov 2006 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fasafasa studiosFasaStudiospreviewshadow runshadowrunSat, 25 Nov 2006 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Magic, science, and fun, Shadowrun preview]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/18/magic-science-and-fun-shadowrun-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/18/magic-science-and-fun-shadowrun-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/18/magic-science-and-fun-shadowrun-preview/#commentsFiled under: ,


Evil Avatar scored a sneak preview of FASA's upcoming Shadowrun, the debut game of Microsoft's new Live Anywhere platform which will allow both 360 and PC players to hash it out online. Some of you may remember that FASA was involved with the debut title for Xbox Live -- MechAssault -- way back in 2002. The preview pretty much covers everything you need to know about Microsoft's would be multiplayer king. The game plays out like Counter-Strike. Each match is divided into six rounds. At the beginning of each round, players purchase magic, technology, and, of course, weapons. The interesting factor here is that magic and technology remain with players even if they are killed during a round -- weapons must be purchased again, however. Essentially this causes the match to intensify with each new round. Adding another layer of strategy to the game is the ability to resurrect dead players. As the author notes, there's nothing quite like resurrecting your entire team and fighting your way back to victory.

The preview is full of other details about the game. For instance, PC and 360 players may not be able to answer the age old mouse vs. controller question after all. See, you won't be able to tell if your playing against 360 or PC players. As far as the game is concerned, they're one and the same. The game also has another way of leveling the playing field. The faster you move the targeting reticle, the less accurate your shots. The idea is to moderate the massive speed advantage that mouse players have over console players. According to the author the experience on both the PC and 360 versions is nearly identical. We're always excited by fresh multiplayer so, here's hoping Shadowrun really shapes up. Anyone looking forward to this cross-platform frag fest?

JoystiqMagic, science, and fun, Shadowrun preview originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Sep 2006 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fasafasa studiosFasaStudioslive anywhereLiveAnywhereshadowrunxbox live anywhereXboxLiveAnywhereMon, 18 Sep 2006 17:00:00 EST