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[Random Final Fantasy rumor of the day]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/22/random-final-fantasy-rumor-of-the-day/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/22/random-final-fantasy-rumor-of-the-day/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/22/random-final-fantasy-rumor-of-the-day/#commentsFiled under:

It doesn't look like Square Enix is spending much time on the Wii, but rumor has it that the company may change their tune and throw the little white console one of its favorite bones: a port. Producer Takashi Tokita of Final Fantasy IV The After: Return of the Moon -- the game's mobile sequel -- recently dropped some hints that the game may be making its way here in some form. "Currently [the sequel] is available for mobile phones in Japan. We'll do our best to make this game available for our overseas audiences as well," he said.

So your first thought would be the DS, right? Not according to the folks at RPG Site, who tapped mysterious (and unnamed) sources at Square Enix in their quest for more information. The result? Hints that the game may be reformatted for Wii. We would assume WiiWare, but who knows; they're porting Chrono Trigger, after all, without a hint of a graphical upgrade.

Right now, this is the king rumor in all of rumorland, meaning it's completely out there and not too reliable, but it's interesting, to say the least. Have any thoughts on the chances of this one?

[Via videogaming247]

JoystiqRandom Final Fantasy rumor of the day originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 22 Sep 2008 09:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ffivfinal-fantasy-ivreturn-of-the-moonrpgsequelsquare-enixthe-afterMon, 22 Sep 2008 09:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Fanswag winners: Final Fantasy IV and Soul Bubbles]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/19/fanswag-winners-final-fantasy-iv-and-soul-bubbles/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/19/fanswag-winners-final-fantasy-iv-and-soul-bubbles/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/19/fanswag-winners-final-fantasy-iv-and-soul-bubbles/#commentsFiled under:


When we were going to pick the winner of our latest giveaway, we completely realized that we forgot to announce the winner for our previous giveaway. Also, we received quite a few emails from you all. So, without further delay, here's our winners:
  • jabby wins our signed copy of Soul Bubbles
  • cwk5014 wins our copy of Final Fantasy IV
Congratulations to our winners and best of luck next time to the rest of you!

JoystiqFanswag winners: Final Fantasy IV and Soul Bubbles originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Sep 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fanswagffivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-ivsoul-bubblessquare-enixFri, 19 Sep 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Fanboy Review: Final Fantasy IV]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/05/ds-fanboy-review-final-fantasy-iv/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/05/ds-fanboy-review-final-fantasy-iv/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/05/ds-fanboy-review-final-fantasy-iv/#commentsFiled under:


It would be very difficult to not recommend Final Fantasy IV. Even though it's not the very best in the franchise, being second-best for Final Fantasy is often far better than any other comparable game, and this particular installment ranks pretty highly among the franchise's titles.. That also makes it hard to criticize a remake, as Matrix and Square Enix would have to take some pretty severe steps in the wrong direction to spoil the experience. That said, let's just get it out of the way: this is a great game.

That doesn't mean that this particular version is great -- it just means that the DS remake of Final Fantasy IV is built on an excellent foundation. But it's not exactly the game you remember, and if you didn't play it, it's also pretty far removed from many of the other RPGs on the system. The result is an odd hybrid of old school and new.

Continue reading DS Fanboy Review: Final Fantasy IV

JoystiqDS Fanboy Review: Final Fantasy IV originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Aug 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ffivfinal-fantasy-ivmatrixremakerpgsquare-enixTue, 05 Aug 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview: Final Fantasy IV]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/22/metareview-final-fantasy-iv/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/22/metareview-final-fantasy-iv/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/22/metareview-final-fantasy-iv/#commentsFiled under:


Square Enix's latest remake has been on the minds of gamers for a pretty long time now. With it finally releasing, many of you have likely wondered how it would compare to the original, let alone the previous remake, Final Fantasy III. Who else could be better to weigh in than the critics? So, without further delay, let's get to the reviews!
  • GamePro (95/100) says the game is still an epic experience: "Ultimately, Final Fantasy IV remains the same epic experience it was seventeen years ago, and the DS's improvements are a welcome treat for fans of the series and newcomers to the franchise alike. With an engrossing story, ambitious characters, and challenging yet rewarding gameplay, I can't help but recommend Final Fantasy IV as a worthwhile purchase, especially if you missed it the first time around. Even if you aren't a huge Final Fantasy fan, this is still one fantastic role-playing title worth checking out."
  • Gamespot (90/100) thinks the game is great, despite some minor issues with the voice work: "Although it has been rereleased several times throughout the years, this full remake of one of the most celebrated stories in video game history is in many ways more poignant and impressive than it was all those years ago, despite minor irks with the voice acting. With a cast of memorable characters and villains, a more accurate and authentic translation, a new skill-customization system, and a few important new story elements that help to better explain key plot points, this is the definitive version of Final Fantasy IV that everyone should experience."
  • IGN (87/100) is of the mind that FFIV is quite impressive: "It's a rush in the most traditional way, and it's an RPG that makes you feel for your characters, fight for every level, and strategize before battles in ways new role-playing games don't bother to do anymore. For fans, FFIV is an impressive resurrection to an awesome, pioneering RPG. For newcomers, you're about to get a lesson in "hardcore gaming 101," but if you put in the time, and put up with the difficulty, you'll have a chance to really "get" what Final Fantasy is all about."
  • 1UP (75/100) scored the game the lowest of this bunch: "It's not a bad little game -- it is, after all, an upgraded version of a 16-bit masterpiece -- but it's needlessly redundant for anyone who picked up FFIV Advance. Of course, die-hard Final Fantasy fans will want to test their mettle against the crazy-hard new difficulty level while checking out the new voices for old favorites: Cecil is appropriately wussy, Kain sounds as tough as you'd expect, and Golbez now sounds like Darth Vader instead of just looking like him. But everyone else might want to wait it out a few years for that inevitable, definitive next-gen remake. When it comes to Square Enix, what goes around comes around. And around. And around."

JoystiqMetareview: Final Fantasy IV originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 Jul 2008 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ffivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-ivremakerpgsquare-enixTue, 22 Jul 2008 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DS releases for the week of July 21st]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/21/ds-releases-for-the-week-of-july-21st/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/21/ds-releases-for-the-week-of-july-21st/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/21/ds-releases-for-the-week-of-july-21st/#commentsFiled under:

It's a tough week. Not only are we coming off the excitement of E3, but we're faced with several great releases this week, too. Will you be shelling out for more than one game? At least in Australia, the choice this week is much, much simpler.
  • Final Fantasy IV
  • Izuna 2: The Unemployed Ninja Returns
  • The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor
  • Nancy Drew: The Mystery of the Clue Bender Society
  • New International Track & Field
Check out the rest of the major markets after the break.

Continue reading DS releases for the week of July 21st

JoystiqDS releases for the week of July 21st originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 Jul 2008 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ffivfinal-fantasy-ivizuna-2nancy-drewreleasesthe-mummytrack-and-fieldMon, 21 Jul 2008 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Promotional Consideration: Circuit City savings with Cecil]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/20/promotional-consideration-circuit-city-savings-with-cecil/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/20/promotional-consideration-circuit-city-savings-with-cecil/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/20/promotional-consideration-circuit-city-savings-with-cecil/#commentsFiled under: ,



This week's installment of Promotional Consideration comes with an excellent bonus -- a Circuit City deal for the Final Fantasy IV remake, which ships to stores next week. The electronics retailer is offering a $10 gift card with any purchase of the 3D RPG, on- and offline. Factor in free-shipping for orders totaling over $24, and this makes up for "the Square Enix tax," that extra $10 the publisher often adds to its DS games.

Now that we've done our part to sell the game to you, let's look at how Square Enix has been pushing Final Fantasy IV.

Continue reading Promotional Consideration: Circuit City savings with Cecil

JoystiqPromotional Consideration: Circuit City savings with Cecil originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 20 Jul 2008 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adcircuit-cityffivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-ivmatrix-softwareprint-adpromotional-considerationpromotionalconsiderationremakesquare-enixsuper-famicomSun, 20 Jul 2008 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[E308: Final Fantasy IV speaks our language -- probably yours, also]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/17/e308-final-fantasy-iv-speaks-our-language-probably-yours-al/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/17/e308-final-fantasy-iv-speaks-our-language-probably-yours-al/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/17/e308-final-fantasy-iv-speaks-our-language-probably-yours-al/#commentsFiled under:


If you've already played the SNES version of Final Fantasy IV and think you'll find the DS remake a breeze, then here's one way to make things tougher (which doesn't involve remixed bosses): try playing it in a different language.

Siliconera's Spencer Yip discovered that the North American version of Final Fantasy IV will ship next week with the French, German, Italian, and Spanish dialog from the European edition included. Accessing any of these is easy -- just change the language setting on the main DS menu. Perfect for anyone in the States who doesn't use English as a first language, or any non-English-speaking Europeans who want a cheap import!

Join us after the break, where we'll teach you how to say a popular and useful phrase in many languages!

Continue reading E308: Final Fantasy IV speaks our language -- probably yours, also

JoystiqE308: Final Fantasy IV speaks our language -- probably yours, also originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 Jul 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2008e308ffivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-ivremakerpgsnessquare-enixThu, 17 Jul 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Comparing the old and the new: Final Fantasy IV]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/comparing-the-old-and-the-new-final-fantasy-iv/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/comparing-the-old-and-the-new-final-fantasy-iv/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/comparing-the-old-and-the-new-final-fantasy-iv/#commentsFiled under:


A comparison video between the original SNES game and new DS remake of Final Fantasy IV is available for your viewing pleasure above. As one might expect, the DS title dwarfs the SNES game graphically, showing us a much more alive game world and bringing the events to life in better fashion. But, hey, we're not knocking the SNES game. We're all for the retro around here.

With the release of Final Fantasy IV getting closer and closer, who's ready to ignore their responsibilities for a week to play through this one?



[Via Go Nintendo]

JoystiqComparing the old and the new: Final Fantasy IV originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Jul 2008 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comparisonffivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-ivrpgsnessquare-enixWed, 02 Jul 2008 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix fulfills your FFIV screenshot fantasy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/square-enix-fulfills-your-ffiv-screenshot-fantasy/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/square-enix-fulfills-your-ffiv-screenshot-fantasy/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/square-enix-fulfills-your-ffiv-screenshot-fantasy/#commentsFiled under:

With FFTA2 now shipped and out of its hands, Square Enix has turned its attention to building up the release of its next summer title, Final Fantasy IV. The publisher has fired out over two dozen new screenshots for the RPG, all of them in our gallery below!

For those of you who aren't sure what the 3D remake promises to add to the almost 17-year-old game, here's a quick recap: touchscreen controls, a dungeon-mapping system, additional episodes, a system with which characters can learn abilities from friends, fully voiced cutscenes, an Event Theatre mode for watching past cutscenes, and a minigame for raising your own summon monster. So, there's quite a lot of new stuff!

Look for Final Fantasy IV to ship out to stores on July 22.

JoystiqSquare Enix fulfills your FFIV screenshot fantasy originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Jun 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ff4ffivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-ivrpgsquare-enixTue, 24 Jun 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GT previews Final Fantasy IV on DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/13/gt-previews-final-fantasy-iv-on-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/13/gt-previews-final-fantasy-iv-on-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/13/gt-previews-final-fantasy-iv-on-ds/#commentsFiled under:

Final Fantasy IV on the DS is still expected at the end of July and GameTrailers has put together a nice little preview video of the title. We definitely have to agree with GT that the $40 game feels like way more than a port of the Final Fantasy II we remember. It's pretty clear some work went into the title beyond giving it graphical Botox injections. Check out the video and let us know what you think.

Gallery: Final Fantasy IV

JoystiqGT previews Final Fantasy IV on DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Jun 2008 09:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSff-ivff-iv-dsffivsquare-enixFri, 13 Jun 2008 09:34:00 EST<![CDATA[More FFIV media than you can summon a stick at]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/13/more-ffiv-media-than-you-can-summon-a-stick-at/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/13/more-ffiv-media-than-you-can-summon-a-stick-at/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/13/more-ffiv-media-than-you-can-summon-a-stick-at/#commentsFiled under: ,

It's okay if you weren't that into Final Fantasy III. As Final Fantasy games go, it's down near the bottom of the list for many people, and even though grinding-on-the-go can be easier than doing the same in your living room, FFIII required a lot of effort.

Final Fantasy IV, however, should totally be pinging your radar in a big way. It's got it all: drama, tension, great characters, epic battles, and it was the first of the triumvirate of awesome (FFIV, FFV, FFVI) that really put the franchise on the map, and next month's remake looks to be doing the classic ultimate justice. The payoff is so much bigger, and in this version, it's beautiful, too. Not convinced? Not only do we have more than forty brand new, English-language images for you in our gallery, we've got new videos hidden away after the break as well. So mount up, get comfortable, and start watching. Next month is going to be a fabulous time for RPG fans.

Continue reading More FFIV media than you can summon a stick at

JoystiqMore FFIV media than you can summon a stick at originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Jun 2008 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ffivfinal-fantasy-ivremakesquare-enixFri, 13 Jun 2008 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy IV videos bring July a little closer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/06/final-fantasy-iv-videos-bring-july-a-little-closer/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/06/final-fantasy-iv-videos-bring-july-a-little-closer/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/06/final-fantasy-iv-videos-bring-july-a-little-closer/#commentsFiled under:


This summer promises to be both funtastic and packed with great Square Enix titles, and now you can have a little sampling, right from the comfort of your monitor! It's like that first big barbecue of the year, except without the greasy fingers and the flies. Or the food. There's no food here. We checked.

What we do have, however, are three videos, neatly lined up for you after the break. Dive right in and get your taste of Final Fantasy IV a month and a half early -- but don't forget your napkin.

Continue reading Final Fantasy IV videos bring July a little closer

JoystiqFinal Fantasy IV videos bring July a little closer originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Jun 2008 09:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ffivfinal-fantasy-ivremakerpgsquare-enixFri, 06 Jun 2008 09:32:00 EST<![CDATA[FFIV announced for Europe, screenshots released]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/24/ffiv-announced-for-europe-screenshots-released/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/24/ffiv-announced-for-europe-screenshots-released/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/24/ffiv-announced-for-europe-screenshots-released/#commentsFiled under:

Making up for the three pitiful images it sent out when announcing Final Fantasy IV's stateside release, Square Enix has accompanied its FFIV announcement for Europe with twenty translated screenshots! The RPG remake doesn't have a firm date yet, unlike North America's July 22nd commitment, but the game should reach PAL territories this summer.

Those of you who've followed its development and release in Japan last December know that Final Fantasy IV DS includes a wide range of additions unavailable in the SNES, PlayStation, WonderSwan Color, or GBA versions -- 3D graphics, touchscreen controls, dungeon-mapping, fully-voiced cutscenes, an expanded storyline, an Event Theatre mode for replaying cutscenes, and a minigame for nurturing your own summon monster.

Hit the gallery below for an English preview of some of those new features!


[Via press release]

JoystiqFFIV announced for Europe, screenshots released originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 Apr 2008 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ffivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-ivremakerpgsquare-enixThu, 24 Apr 2008 09:45:00 EST<![CDATA[A tiny peek at Final Fantasy IV]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/11/a-tiny-peek-at-final-fantasy-iv/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/11/a-tiny-peek-at-final-fantasy-iv/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/11/a-tiny-peek-at-final-fantasy-iv/#commentsFiled under:


Square Enix, we'd like to introduce you to our good friends at Atlus. When they announce a game, we get dozens of screenshots. Heck, when it comes to Atlus games, we get dozens of screenshots just because it's Tuesday or the sun is shining, and we like it. You guys formally date Final Fantasy IV, one of the most anticipated DS titles this year ... and we get three English screenshots, and one of 'em doesn't even have any English (see above).

And yet, in return, Square Enix will have all of our money this summer, and sometimes, they don't even bother making new games. It almost doesn't seem fair. While we consider making a few protest posters, you can check out the screens in the gallery below.

p.s. Beef aside, we love you anyway. Kisses!


[Via press release]

JoystiqA tiny peek at Final Fantasy IV originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 Apr 2008 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ffivmatrix-softwareremakerpgsquare-enixFri, 11 Apr 2008 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy IV hits North American DS on July 22]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/10/final-fantasy-iv-hits-north-american-ds-on-july-22/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/10/final-fantasy-iv-hits-north-american-ds-on-july-22/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/10/final-fantasy-iv-hits-north-american-ds-on-july-22/#commentsFiled under: ,


Square Enix sent word by airship today that Final Fantasy II Final Fantasy IV is ready for its 3D re-envisioning on July 22 in North America. This DS version of Final Fantasy IV -- beyond the graphical upgrade -- also features some fully voiced cutscenes and added content.

It appears Nintendo Power was right on the money with a July release -- as one would hope they would be. Other upgrades the title boasts are a remixed score by composer Nobuo Uematsu and "head-to-head battle" via local wireless. The game will retail for $40 and certainly makes for the perfect game to avoid conversation during the end-of-summer family road trip.

Gallery: Final Fantasy IV

JoystiqFinal Fantasy IV hits North American DS on July 22 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Apr 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSff-ivffivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-ivsquare-enixsquareenixThu, 10 Apr 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[It's official: Final Fantasy IV on July 22]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/10/its-official-final-fantasy-iv-on-july-22/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/10/its-official-final-fantasy-iv-on-july-22/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/10/its-official-final-fantasy-iv-on-july-22/#commentsFiled under:

You can go ahead and just accept that the next few months of your life are likely to belong to Square Enix. Now that we have an official release date for Final Fantasy IV, we're looking at:
  • The World Ends With You this month
  • Space Invaders Extreme and Arkanoid DS in June
  • Final Fantasy Tactics A2 in June
  • Final Fantasy IV July 22
And that's just a sprinkling of what's to come. There's so much else to consider, from Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days to Valkyrie Profile: The Accused One, and maybe even Itadaki Street. And to think, some people are convinced that third parties have a tough time on Nintendo systems. Not so with Square Enix on the DS, that's for sure.


[Via press release]

JoystiqIt's official: Final Fantasy IV on July 22 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Apr 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ffivfinal-fantasy-ivmatrix-softwarerpgsquare-enixThu, 10 Apr 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo Power: FFIV DS coming in July]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/09/nintendo-power-ffiv-ds-coming-in-july/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/09/nintendo-power-ffiv-ds-coming-in-july/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/09/nintendo-power-ffiv-ds-coming-in-july/#commentsFiled under: ,

Misdirection isn't just for magicians anymore ... apparently Nintendo Power practices it too. While everyone was focused on the hints of a U.S. localized Final Fantasy IV DS in the magazine's ten-page cover feature on the game, no one seemed to notice that the game was listed with a "July" release date in that same issue's "Game Watch Forecast."

Well, no one except RPGFan.com, which then in turn got noticed by our own DSFanboy, which in turn got noticed by us so you fine readers can notice it for yourselves. This could just be a typo on Nintendo's part, but more likely it's a slip-up that reveals a release window a little earlier than Square-Enix would have liked. Either way, just another pebble on the growing mound of evidence that a localized version is coming.

JoystiqNintendo Power: FFIV DS coming in July originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Apr 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSff-4-dsff-iv-dsff4ff4dsffivfinal-fantasy-4final-fantasy-ivlocalizationlocalizednintendo-powerrumorsquaresquare-enixWed, 09 Apr 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy IV coming in July]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/08/final-fantasy-iv-coming-in-july/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/08/final-fantasy-iv-coming-in-july/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/08/final-fantasy-iv-coming-in-july/#commentsFiled under:


Did you miss the date for Final Fantasy IV in the last issue of Nintendo Power? We did, and so did many others; we were all too busy reading the incredible ten page spread on the game to look at the chart on page 18. Now RPGFan is also reporting that the game will ship this July, so it should be only a matter of time before Square Enix confirms the release. At this rate, we can expect Final Fantasy VI (also known as the one we're waiting for on the DS) in July of 2009. Can we get on that, guys? Not that we aren't excited about Final Fantasy IV (we are!), we're just ... uh ... looking ahead.


[Via Gemaga]

JoystiqFinal Fantasy IV coming in July originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 Apr 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ffivfinal-fantasy-ivmatrix-softwarereleaserpgsquare-enixTue, 08 Apr 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SecondSpin sale offers extra cheap prices for used games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/14/secondspin-sale-offers-extra-cheap-prices-for-used-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/14/secondspin-sale-offers-extra-cheap-prices-for-used-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/14/secondspin-sale-offers-extra-cheap-prices-for-used-games/#commentsFiled under: ,

Starting today until March 16th, preowned media retailer SecondSpin is offering customers free shipping and 20% off its used items. Unlike GameStop and Electronics Boutique, SecondSpin sells every game with the manual and box, so you won't have to worry about receiving an incomplete package. All you need to do to take advantage of the deal is use this coupon code: TWENTY314.

SecondSpin has too many available Nintendo DS and GBA titles (450+) for us to list, but we've put together a short tally of games that you might want to pick up.

Nintendo DS:
GBA deals:
If you don't see anything you're interested in, SecondSpin updates its inventory every day, so check back again tomorrow!

[Via CAG]

JoystiqSecondSpin sale offers extra cheap prices for used games originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 Mar 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ace-attorneycouponcustom-robo-arenaffivffvfinal-fantasygunstar-super-heroesjustice-for-alllegend-of-zeldaphantom-hourglassphoenix-wrightscurge-hivesecondspintmnttrue-swing-golfFri, 14 Mar 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Another Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 2/11-2/17]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/22/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-2-11-2-17/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/22/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-2-11-2-17/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/22/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-2-11-2-17/#commentsFiled under:

The DS reclaimed second place for hardware, managing to inch past the PSP on this week's chart. A bunch of new releases helped the handheld's sales, as fifteen of the top thirty games last week were DS titles.

Hardware:
  • Wii: 78,583
  • Nintendo DS: 62,362
  • PSP: 59,645
  • PlayStation 3: 17,637
  • PlayStation 2: 11,266
  • Xbox 360: 2,198
The top contender for the dual-screened portable last week was the Japanese dating sim, Tokimeki Memorial: Girl's Side 2nd Season, which beat everything except Smash Bros. and Wii Fit. Meanwhile, After-School Boy and Doraemon Baseball were knocked out of the top thirty, but remained in the top fifty (along with Rune Factory 2). Overall, though, it was a great software week for the DS. If you want to see why, check out the numbers after the break.

Continue reading Another Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 2/11-2/17

JoystiqAnother Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 2/11-2/17 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animal-crossinganother-week-in-japandeath-notedigimon-championshipdqivdragon-quest-ivffivfinal-fantasy-ivfirst-of-the-north-stargirls-sidegirls-side-second-seasonjapankanji-brain-testlaytonmario-and-sonicmario-kartmario-partymedia-createmkdsnarutonew-super-mario-brosnsmbprofessor-layton-2salestaiko-drum-mastertokimeki-memorialwarriors-roadwild-worldFri, 22 Feb 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Daily: Such a Square (Enix)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/16/ds-daily-such-a-square-enix/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/16/ds-daily-such-a-square-enix/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/16/ds-daily-such-a-square-enix/#commentsFiled under:

There's a lot of potential Square Enix on the horizon. Between The World Ends with You, Final Fantasy remakes, Dragon Quest remakes, new Dragon Quests, Border of Madness, Final Fantasy Tactis A2, and Crystal Chronicles, that's quite a lot of DS love. Oh, and let's not forget Kingdom Hearts. So, are you a Square Enix fan? If so, what game are you most hoping for or looking forward to?

See also: 2008's Biggest Blips -- Final Fantasy IV -- The World Ends with You -- Final Fantasy Tactics A2

JoystiqDS Daily: Such a Square (Enix) originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 16 Feb 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>border-of-madnesscrystal-chroniclesdqivdqixdqvdragon-quest-ivdragon-quest-ixdragon-quest-vffivffta-a2fftaa2ffvfinal-fantasy-ivfinal-fantasy-vfront-missionkingdom-heartssquare-enixSat, 16 Feb 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Another Week In Japan: Hardware and software numbers 2/4-2/10]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/15/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-2-4-2-10/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/15/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-2-4-2-10/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/15/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-2-4-2-10/#commentsFiled under:

Aside from Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Games, the best seller for the DS last week was L, the Prologue to Death Note: Rasen no Wana. It's no surprise that this game did well in Japan, as it's based off a popular anime series. It wasn't enough to help the DS overcome the PSP or Wii this week, though, as Brawl and Mobile Suit Gundam kept their respective systems on top easily.
  • Wii: 81,737
  • PSP: 75,912
  • Nintendo DS: 60,464
  • PlayStation 3: 23,985
  • PlayStation 2: 11,038
  • Xbox 360: 3,615
The rest is the same story as last week, with After-School Boy managing to stay in the top thirty, and a new Brain Age-like game thrown in. Check after the break to get a look at the software rankings and sales.

Continue reading Another Week In Japan: Hardware and software numbers 2/4-2/10

JoystiqAnother Week In Japan: Hardware and software numbers 2/4-2/10 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Feb 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>another-week-in-japanchartdeath-notedorabasedoraemon-baseballdqivdragon-quest-ivffivfinal-fantasy-ivjapanl-the-prologue-to-death-notemario-and-sonicmario-kartmario-partymedia-createnew-super-mario-bros.nsmbrasen-no-wanarasens-trapsalestaiko-drum-masterFri, 15 Feb 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Another Week In Japan: Hardware and software numbers 1/28-2/3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/08/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-1-28-2-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/08/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-1-28-2-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/08/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-1-28-2-3/#commentsFiled under:

It's a sad day for the DS in Japan. As Media Create's hardware figures from last week were released, we found out that not only the Wii topped the DS (like the week before), but also the PSP managed to overtake the dual-screened handheld.

Hardware:
  • Wii: 94,473
  • PSP: 72,528
  • Nintendo DS: 67,472
  • PlayStation 3: 41,796
  • PlayStation 2: 12,115
  • Xbox 360: 6,060
According to Media Create, the DS only had one game in the top ten (Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Games). That's not surprising, since there were many new releases on other systems, but it's far from the DS dominance that we're used to. Still, it was nice to see some low-key games like After-School Boy, Taiko Drum Master, and Doraemon Baseball getting love in Japan.

Check after the break to see the full list of software rankings from last week.

Continue reading Another Week In Japan: Hardware and software numbers 1/28-2/3

JoystiqAnother Week In Japan: Hardware and software numbers 1/28-2/3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Feb 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>after-school-boyanimal-crossinganother-week-in-japandorabasedoraemon-baseballdqivdragon-quest-ivffivfinal-fantasy-ivjapanlaytonmario-and-sonicmario-kartmario-partymedia-createmkdsnepleagueprofessor-laytonprofessor-layton-2salestaiko-drum-masterwild-worldFri, 08 Feb 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[2008's Biggest Blips: Final Fantasy IV]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/04/2008s-biggest-blips-final-fantasy-iv/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/04/2008s-biggest-blips-final-fantasy-iv/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/04/2008s-biggest-blips-final-fantasy-iv/#commentsFiled under:


Developer: Square Enix/Matrix Software
Publisher: Square Enix
Release: TBA

Lately, Square Enix has been on this remake kick. If it's a game and they made it, they're probably remaking it for the DS. While we're completely okay with that, it's getting somewhat difficult to keep track of what's going on in which game. Not only must fans keep track of the latest games, and forthcoming titles, but now we've also got to dredge up all the old details on what happened when back in the day. To that end, we've put together a handy guide of what to expect in Final Fantasy IV.

The action begins with the downfall of Dark Knight Cecil Harvey, who has begun to question just what his king is really up to. His good friend, Kain Highwind and girlfriend, Rosa Farrell, stand by their man as they set off on the beginning of an epic quest to (what else?) save the day. It's never quite that simple, though; the groups separate, and new people come and go. There is high drama and political intrigue, rebellion and amnesia. No, wait, that last was in another game or two. Well, you can at least expect a few malboros and cactuars. Er, wait, no cactuars in Final Fantasy IV. But you will get to travel to the Near East and visit exotic Aht Urghan ... hang on, no, that's Final Fantasy XI. Listen, we're pretty certain there's a spoony bard and some airships. Also, Aeris dies. Oh, that's not this one, either? Damn! Okay, okay, here's what we know for sure:

1) There will be some sort of epic crisis.


Burning things in the sky = doubleplusungood

2) This one group of dudes? They are the only ones who can save the day.

Thankfully, not the 8-Bit Theater guys.

3) Said dudes will be dressed in elaborate and often impractical outfits, which may or may not feature wings, buckles, and/or zippers.


4) Hair will be serious business.


5) There will be some guy named Cid.


6) Ditto Wedge and Biggs.


7) There will be ether, but not the happy-fun-friendly anesthetic.


8) There will certainly be math. We can't explain this one.


As for the rest ... what, you expected we'd spoil it for you? No way! You'll have to wait for the DS game to finally get its English-language release. Unless, of course, you've played it before. If that's the case, you know it's awesome. What do you need us for?

Shiren the Wanderer Back Punk's not dead

Joystiq2008's Biggest Blips: Final Fantasy IV originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Feb 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>08blipsffivfinal-fantasy-ivremakerpgsquare-enixMon, 04 Feb 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Another Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 1/21-1/27]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/01/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-1-21-1-27/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/01/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-1-21-1-27/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/01/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-1-21-1-27/#commentsFiled under:


We apologize for being late with Japan's sales figures from last week, but when we saw the Wii overtake the DS, we needed a minute to recover. Our beloved handheld was pushed out of the top spot in Japan? If you need to see it to believe it:
  • Wii: 79,000
  • DS: 74,000
  • PSP: 61,000
  • PS3: 29,000
  • PS2: 11,000
  • Xbox 360: 4,200
That's right, folks. According to Famitsu's numbers, the DS was dethroned last week by Nintendo's other system, the Wii. We crosschecked the numbers with Media Create's figures just to be sure, which (to our relief) had the DS ahead by a smidge. Since both numbers are equally credible (we use Famitsu numbers because they come out first), we were glad to see that the Wii didn't triumph as a clear winner. Still, we came to realize something -- Super Smash Bros. Brawl just came out in Japan. Once the sales numbers for the game hit the charts (next week), the Wii will probably blow the DS (and every other system) out of the water.

The DS also slacked slightly in software (compared to previous weeks). While games for the handheld still littered the charts, they didn't dominate over other titles as much as usual. Doraemon Baseball (which we haven't heard much of since its debut) did jump up into the number eight spot, though, while Final Fantasy IV fell out of the top twenty completely. Also, Exit DS came out in Japan last week, starting its run with only 5,500 sales.

Check after the break to see the rest of the software sales for the week of 1/21.

Continue reading Another Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 1/21-1/27

JoystiqAnother Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 1/21-1/27 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>another-week-in-japanchartdorabasedoraemon-baseballdqivdragon-quest-ivdriving-smash-side-kingexitfamitsuffivfinal-fantasy-ivjapanlaytonmario-and-sonicmario-kartmario-partymkdsprofess-laytonsalestennis-no-oukismaFri, 01 Feb 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Another week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 1/14-1/20]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/23/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-1-14-1-20/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/23/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-1-14-1-20/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/23/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-1-14-1-20/#commentsFiled under:


The DS version of Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games premiered last week, immediately shooting to the top of the charts. Only Wii Fit could keep the game from taking the number one spot. Aside from Mario & Sonic and the Professor Layton sequel, though, most DS games found themselves in the bottom half of the top twenty. Rune Factory 2 even threatens to slip off completely after a few promising weeks.

As for the hardware numbers, it's the same old story. The DS continues to sell well, and once again takes the #1 spot with Japanese gamers.

Hardware:
  • DS: 91,000
  • Wii: 76,000
  • PSP: 65,000
  • PS3: 32,000
  • PS2: 13,000
  • Xbox 360: 4,400
The Japanese software numbers for the week of 1/14 are listed after the break.

Continue reading Another week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 1/14-1/20

JoystiqAnother week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 1/14-1/20 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Jan 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animal-crossinganother-week-in-japanchartsdqivdragon-quest-ivfamitsuffivfinal-fantasy-ivjapanlaytonmario-and-sonicmario-kartmario-partymkdsnew-super-mario-brothersnsmbprofessor-laytonrune-factory-2salesWed, 23 Jan 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Another week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 1/7-1/13]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/16/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-1-7-1-13/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/16/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-1-7-1-13/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/16/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-1-7-1-13/#commentsFiled under:

The PSP might be inching closer to the DS in hardware sales, but the dual-screened handheld continues to dominate the software charts. Half of the games in the top twenty were DS games, while the Wii, PSP, PS2 and PS3 shared the other half.

Many of the top games were old favorites, but relative newcomers like Final Fantasy IV and Rune Factory 2 did well, too. Professor Layton 2 continues to help its predecessor sell more copies, giving the original Layton a chance to reach one million sales. For the most part, though, it was a quiet and predictable week in the Land of the Rising Sun.

Hardware:
  • DS: 103,000
  • PSP: 84,000
  • Wii: 82,000
  • PS3: 34,000
  • PS2: 15,000
  • Xbox 360: 5,500
The software sales can be seen after the break.

Continue reading Another week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 1/7-1/13

JoystiqAnother week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 1/7-1/13 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Jan 2008 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animal-crossinganother-week-in-japanchartsdqivdragon-quest-ivfamitsuffivfinal-fantasy-ivjapanlaytonmario-kartmario-partymkdsnew-super-mario-brothersnsmbpokemonpokemon-mystery-dungeonprofessor-laytonrune-factory-2saleswild-worldWed, 16 Jan 2008 17:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Another week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 12/31-1/6]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/09/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-12-31-1-6/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/09/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-12-31-1-6/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/09/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-12-31-1-6/#commentsFiled under:

The big news with last week's sales numbers is not that the DS managed to top 300,000 again, but that the New Super Mario Bros. broke five million in Japan. Not only that, but the game took the sixteenth spot in today's Famistu chart.

Also showing legs is Mario Kart DS, which sold 68,000 copies to take the number eight spot. While it's no surprise that Mario Kart does well week after week (after week), we didn't expect it to make the top ten. We're also happy to see some new DS blood enter the ring, with Rune Factory 2 selling 56,000 in its debut.

The rise in sales from the previous week was most likely due to the New Years holiday, which is a popular shopping period in Japan. These numbers are almost certainly not sustainable, though, so we should see a big difference next week. Of course, we fully expect that the DS will end up on top, as always, with a smattering of its games in the top ten.

Check after the break to see the numbers, with NSMB sales tacked on for good measure.

Continue reading Another week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 12/31-1/6

JoystiqAnother week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 12/31-1/6 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Jan 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>another-week-in-japanchartsdq4dqivdragon-quest-4dragon-quest-ivfamitsuff4ffivfinal-fantasy-4final-fantasy-ivjapanlaytonmario-kartmario-partymkdsnew-super-mario-brosnsmbpokemon-mystery-dungeonprofessor-layton-2rune-factory-2salesWed, 09 Jan 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Another week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 12/24-12/31]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/05/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-12-24-12-31/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/05/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-12-24-12-31/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/05/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-12-24-12-31/#commentsFiled under:

We were finally able to get our greedy little hands on the Japanese sales numbers from Famitsu for the week of 12/24, and came to find that the DS had another great week.

Unsurprisingly, the DS took the top spot in hardware sales, moving 195,000 units. While this was a drop from the week before's incredible numbers, it certainly isn't a bad showing for the three-year-old handheld.

In terms of software, Final Fantasy IV is continuing to sell well, meaning that more remakes in the series are sure to follow. The other Square-Enix remake on the charts, Dragon Quest IV, managed to go platinum this week. Mario Party DS, meanwhile, was the only other DS game to make the top ten, as the Professor Layton sequel slipped to the number eleven spot.

To see the hardware and software sales numbers for the the week of 12/24, check after the break.

Continue reading Another week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 12/24-12/31

JoystiqAnother week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 12/24-12/31 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 05 Jan 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>another-week-in-japanchartsdq4dqivdragon-quest-4dragon-quest-ivfamitsuff4ffivfinal-fantasy-4final-fantasy-ivjapanlaytonmario-partymario-party-dspokemon-mystery-dungeonsalesSat, 05 Jan 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[FFIV fan translation patch for spoony bards]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/03/ffiv-fan-translation-patch-for-spoony-bards/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/03/ffiv-fan-translation-patch-for-spoony-bards/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/03/ffiv-fan-translation-patch-for-spoony-bards/#commentsFiled under: ,

Once again, we're delving into the ethically dubious practice of ROM hacking (and ROM having), this time for the Japanese release of Final Fantasy IV. Impatient fans have been translating the game's script since the 3D remake's release last month, and they have already released a "semi-final beta" translation patch with most of the description text now in English!

According to the group's progress table, only a few sections still need translation (e.g. monster descriptions, location names), so a full and final English patch doesn't seem too far off. A Translation Wiki is also available for those missing bits or for those of you who'd rather pass on using the patch altogether.

Square Enix has yet to announce its plans for Final Fantasy IV's release outside of Japan. Our best guess? Mid-to-late 2008.

JoystiqFFIV fan translation patch for spoony bards originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Jan 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fan-translationffivfinal-fantasypatchremakeromrpgsquare-enixsquareenixtranslationThu, 03 Jan 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Another week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 12/17-12/23]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/26/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-12-17-12-23/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/26/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-12-17-12-23/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/26/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-12-17-12-23/#commentsFiled under:

Another week in Japan has come and gone, which means yet another week of ridiculous success for the DS. The hardware managed to top 300k for the week, while heavy hitters like Final Fantasy IV, Dragon Quest IV, and Mario Party DS littered the top ten in the software charts. It was also a good week for baseball game Dorabase, which debuted at the number nine spot with 96k, selling 90% of it's total stock.

Hardware:
  • DS: 319,000
  • Wii: 264,000
  • PSP: 162,000
  • PS3: 51,000
  • PS2: 24,000
  • Xbox 360: 8,100
Check after the break to see the software numbers for 12/17-12/23 in Japan.

Continue reading Another week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 12/17-12/23

JoystiqAnother week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 12/17-12/23 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 Dec 2007 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>another-week-in-japancard-herochartsdorabasedq4dqivdragon-quest-4dragon-quest-ivfamitsuff4ffivfinal-fantasy-4final-fantasy-ivjapanlaytonmario-kartmario-partymariokartpokemon-dungeonsalesWed, 26 Dec 2007 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Promotional Consideration: Hataraku Chocobo]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/23/promotional-consideration-hataraku-chocobo/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/23/promotional-consideration-hataraku-chocobo/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/23/promotional-consideration-hataraku-chocobo/#commentsFiled under:



Promotional Consideration is a weekly feature about the Nintendo DS advertisements you usually flip past, change the channel on, or just tune out.

Square Enix has been pushing Final Fantasy IV hard this week in Japan, advertising the 3D remake with five different CG-filled commercials. We were curious to compare these spots with how the RPG was marketed when it first appeared on the Super Famicom, all the way back in 1991, and the two approaches couldn't be any more at odds!

Continue reading Promotional Consideration: Hataraku Chocobo

JoystiqPromotional Consideration: Hataraku Chocobo originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 23 Dec 2007 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dchocobocommercialffivfinal-fantasymatrix-softwareostrichpromotional-considerationpromotionalconsiderationremakerpgsnessquare-enixsquaresoftSun, 23 Dec 2007 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy IV ads remind us: CG is great]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/19/final-fantasy-iv-ads-remind-us-cg-is-great/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/19/final-fantasy-iv-ads-remind-us-cg-is-great/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/19/final-fantasy-iv-ads-remind-us-cg-is-great/#commentsFiled under: ,


With the Final Fantasy IV remake out today, Square Enix wants to make sure to get all the crazies out lined up in Akihabara -- and maybe a few 'expanded audience' members as well. To that end, they've debuted a series of short commercials that show off the game's stunning cutscenes. They accidentally left some real gameplay in the commercials too, which you can see towards the end. Final Fantasy VII sold gobs, and its advertising was totally CG-focused, so why change?

But wait, there's more! In addition to the two commercials embedded in this post (one of which is after the break) there are three other commercials on the Final Fantasy IV website. It's so weird to see the Final Fantasy IV characters rendered like this. Especially Cecil, who we used to think of as manly.

[Via NeoGAF]

Continue reading Final Fantasy IV ads remind us: CG is great

JoystiqFinal Fantasy IV ads remind us: CG is great originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 Dec 2007 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adcommercialffivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-ivrpgsquare-enixWed, 19 Dec 2007 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy IV boxart gets final]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/18/final-fantasy-iv-boxart-gets-final/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/18/final-fantasy-iv-boxart-gets-final/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/18/final-fantasy-iv-boxart-gets-final/#commentsFiled under:


Famitsu dropped a megaton on us: Final Fantasy IV boxart. We know, we fell down when we found out about it, too. In fact, our bottom still hurts from the force at which it slammed to the ground.

Personally, we're liking the character grouping in the center, but could do without all of the blue everywhere. We understand it's cloudy, but sheesh. Toss some color in for us outside of Japan, please!

JoystiqFinal Fantasy IV boxart gets final originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 18 Dec 2007 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boxartfamitsuffivfinal-fantasy-ivjapansquare-enixsquareenixTue, 18 Dec 2007 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy IV screens: just like importing, without the actual game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/17/final-fantasy-iv-screens-just-like-importing-without-the-actua/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/17/final-fantasy-iv-screens-just-like-importing-without-the-actua/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/17/final-fantasy-iv-screens-just-like-importing-without-the-actua/#commentsFiled under:

This week, Japanese gamers will be able to get their hands on the much-updated Final Fantasy IV. Unless you're importing, you've got quite a wait ahead of you before you can share in that joy, but we thought these screens might soothe the pain a bit. Check out our updated gallery below for a peek at the unlockable ability-absorbing character and more.

JoystiqFinal Fantasy IV screens: just like importing, without the actual game originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Dec 2007 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ffivfinal-fantasyFinalFantasyIVgalleryrpgsquare-enixMon, 17 Dec 2007 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DS releases for the week of December 17th]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/17/ds-releases-for-the-week-of-december-17th/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/17/ds-releases-for-the-week-of-december-17th/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/17/ds-releases-for-the-week-of-december-17th/#commentsFiled under:

It's an odd week for gamers around the world. Europe's got a whopping nothing and Australia might as well have, Japan has its usual flood of DS titles, including some highly anticipated titles, and here in the U.S., we've got an odd mix hitting shelves. Let's hope everyone can find something to keep them entertained!
  • Elements of Destruction
  • Indianapolis 500 Legends
  • Luxor 2
  • MX vs. ATV: Untamed
  • Warhammer 40,000: Squad Command

Continue reading DS releases for the week of December 17th

JoystiqDS releases for the week of December 17th originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Dec 2007 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>decemberelements-of-destructionffivreleaseswarhammerMon, 17 Dec 2007 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Mini FFIV figures are super teeny, super cute]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/16/mini-ffiv-figures-are-super-teeny-super-cute/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/16/mini-ffiv-figures-are-super-teeny-super-cute/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/16/mini-ffiv-figures-are-super-teeny-super-cute/#commentsFiled under:


Face it. If you've owned Final Fantasy IV for the SNES, the GBA, and plan on getting it for the DS, you're an FFIV addict. Of course, when we show you things like these miniature figurines, that just makes us enablers.

For $39.00, you can get your fix from NCXS. The figures in this Final Fantasy IV Trading Arts Mini collection are only 6cm tall, which means they're tiny. Of course, you might just want to save your money for the game instead.

[Via Kotaku]

JoystiqMini FFIV figures are super teeny, super cute originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 16 Dec 2007 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ff4ffivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-4final-fantasy-ivfinalfantasytrading-arts-miniSun, 16 Dec 2007 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hori summons an accessory set to complement Final Fantasy IV's release]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/12/hori-summons-an-accessory-set-to-complement-final-fantasy-ivs-r/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/12/hori-summons-an-accessory-set-to-complement-final-fantasy-ivs-r/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/12/hori-summons-an-accessory-set-to-complement-final-fantasy-ivs-r/#commentsFiled under: ,



Another major RPG release for the DS, another Hori accessory set. This latest bundle for Final Fantasy IV's 3D remake comes packed with a trio of items you can buy to showcase your fanboyism and poor money management skills -- a protective system case, an extendable stylus, and an attachable screen wipe bearing the image of a chibi Rydia, FFIV's green-haired summoner.

Like the game, this kit won't be available in Japan until December 20th, but import shop Play Asia is already taking preorders, charging $17.90 plus shipping. Gather your party, stock up on potions, and travel past the post break for more images from this official accessory set.

Continue reading Hori summons an accessory set to complement Final Fantasy IV's release

JoystiqHori summons an accessory set to complement Final Fantasy IV's release originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Dec 2007 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casechibiffivfinal-fantasyhoripreorderrpgrydiasquare-enixstyluswipeWed, 12 Dec 2007 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fantasy, math, and theater]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/11/fantasy-math-and-theater/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/11/fantasy-math-and-theater/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/11/fantasy-math-and-theater/#commentsFiled under: ,

It must be Final Fantasy IV update day! Jeux-France has some screens of some of the new additions to the franchise's fourth installment's DS version, like the event theater for viewing cutscenes, and a math mini-game that promises to unlock a new character. Yes, you read that correctly -- they've gone and put math all up in our Final Fantasy. Why, God? Why?

We will say this, however: math is still better than blitzball. We'd rather do calculus than play blitzball ever, ever again. Really. Bring on the math. And check out the new screens in our gallery below.

JoystiqFantasy, math, and theater originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Dec 2007 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>event-theaterffivfinal-fantasygallerymini-gameremakesquare-enixTue, 11 Dec 2007 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy IV Japanese site rolls out the updates]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/11/final-fantasy-iv-japanese-site-rolls-out-the-updates/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/11/final-fantasy-iv-japanese-site-rolls-out-the-updates/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/11/final-fantasy-iv-japanese-site-rolls-out-the-updates/#commentsFiled under: ,


The Japanese website for Final Fantasy IV has updated with new goodies. First off, is an update to the character section, which describes a lot of the game's characters. There is also the download section, which has some sweet wallpapers available. Three of those wallpapers are of in-game characters, with the last new wallpaper available being one kickass piece of concept art. So, head on over and check the new stuff out.

[Via Go Nintendo]

JoystiqFinal Fantasy IV Japanese site rolls out the updates originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Dec 2007 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ffivfinal-fantasyfinalfantasyonlinesquare-enixsquareenixwebsiteTue, 11 Dec 2007 13:30:00 EST