Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Life is a side quest -- I wanna ride it all night long!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/16/life-is-a-side-quest-i-wanna-ride-it-all-night-long/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/16/life-is-a-side-quest-i-wanna-ride-it-all-night-long/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/16/life-is-a-side-quest-i-wanna-ride-it-all-night-long/#commentsFiled under:


Kylie Prymus is the first columnist for PS Fanboy. A Ph.D candidate in philosophy, Kylie specializes in the sociology of technology. Through this new weekly column, Kylie will explore the impact of PlayStation on thought and culture.

I have returned, noble fanboys and fangirls! Yes returned to the land of milk and honey - if by milk you mean PixelJunk Eden and by honey you mean Soulcalibur IV. As I sat in my car staring at long stretches of side quest highway for hours, drooling at the though of returning home to days upon days of new games and DLC (not to mention resolving the heart-wrenching gamus interruptus of a few key titles ), I couldn't help but wonder if my extended absence from the PS3 had taught be anything. Besides the hard lesson that I most definitely need to invest in an HDMI capable monitor - or even better, a PS3 laptop - what did I learn from 6 weeks of quality time with naught save my PSP?

Continue reading Life is a side quest -- I wanna ride it all night long!

JoystiqLife is a side quest -- I wanna ride it all night long! originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 16 Aug 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>final fantasyFinalFantasyjoystiqfeaturesnarrativephilosonypspside questSideQuestSat, 16 Aug 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dissidia: Final Fantasy script longer than Crisis Core's]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/01/dissidia-final-fantasy-script-longer-than-crisis-cores/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/01/dissidia-final-fantasy-script-longer-than-crisis-cores/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/01/dissidia-final-fantasy-script-longer-than-crisis-cores/#commentsFiled under:

Another Japanese magazine, Dengeki Playstation, published yet another interview with the Dissdia: Final Fantasy team. The gang consisting of producer Tetsuya Normura, senior director Takeshi Arakawa and planning director Mitsunori Takahashi were present to answer some burning questions fans had about the game.

Takahashi started off by stating only 20% of the game has been shown thus far and a "solid release date" will be announced at an event in August. He asserts that fans who are comfortable with the original RPGs should be a-okay with Dissidia, which is labeled an "Action-RPG plus competitive fighting." Storywise, Nomura said he made Tidus' counterpart Jecht rather than Seymour because Seymour lacked a "proper connection" with Tidus. Arakawa then assured us they are still in the process of "fine tuning the original story details behind the characters' births, relationships, interactions."

Arakawa also mentioned an online feature tentatively named "Battling Community" where the focus is "being connected to others trying to discover their own merits" and less focus on "things like battle strength/ranking." Finally, he disclosed a rather startling fact: "the script is double the length of Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII." Read the entire translated interview here.

[Via Forever Fantasy]

JoystiqDissidia: Final Fantasy script longer than Crisis Core's originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Jul 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dissidiafinal fantasyinterviewsquare-enixsquareenixTue, 01 Jul 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy VII ported to the Famicom. Finally!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/22/final-fantasy-vii-ported-to-the-famicom-finally/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/22/final-fantasy-vii-ported-to-the-famicom-finally/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/22/final-fantasy-vii-ported-to-the-famicom-finally/#commentsFiled under: ,


Remember back in the late '90s, when Square was so frustrated trying to fit their opus Final Fantasy VII onto the cartridge-based Nintendo 64 that they made their famous defection to Sony? Well, just a short decade later, China's Shenzhen Nanjing Technology Co, Ltd has apparently done what Square couldn't, squeezing the PlayStation epic onto a cartridge. And not just any cartridge .. a Famicom cartridge. How's it feel to be shown up, Square?

Of course, the conversion isn't perfect. According to a write-up from intrepid blogger CinnamonPirate (who unearthed the 2MB ROM from a Chinese blog) the polygonal graphics and cut scenes are gone, replaced with an impressively wide array of sprites, many stolen from other Final Fantasy games. The story remains surprisingly authentic, though, encompassing the entire three-disc epic while only leaving out a few optional side stories (bye bye, Yuffie and Vincent). The wide array of weapons, magic and materia from the original is a bit restricted in the port, but frankly, we're impressed that features like materia-leveling made it on to the 20+ year old hardware in any form.

The company behind the cart is apparently now primarily makes MP3 players, so our hopes for a Colecovision version of Final Fantasy XII will probably remain unfulfilled.

JoystiqFinal Fantasy VII ported to the Famicom. Finally! originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Feb 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bootlegChinaChinesefamicomFF7FFVIIfinal fantasyfinal-fantasy-viiFinalFantasyportPS2squaresquare-enixsquaresoftFri, 22 Feb 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Square wins plagiarism case against Korean music video]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/11/square-wins-plagiarism-case-against-korean-music-video/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/11/square-wins-plagiarism-case-against-korean-music-video/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/11/square-wins-plagiarism-case-against-korean-music-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Imitation isn't only the sincerest form of flattery, it's also the most legally actionable. At least it is to Square Enix, which recently won a plagiarism case against South Korean music video producer Fantom to the tune of 16 million won (approx. $17,400).

The case centers on the video for the song Temptation Sonata, in which live actors recreate a scene from Square Enix's animated movie, Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children. According to a judge for the Seoul Central District Court, the video "illegally used 80% of the storyline, setting, characters and their styles of dress and their demeanors," from the movie scene. We're not sure how the judge came to such an exact statistic, but who are we to argue with such an official sounding pronouncement?

A comparison of the videos (both viewable below the break) shows much more than a passing similarity between the two, and Square was definitely within its rights taking legal action. That said, we have to wonder what Square Enix felt it had to gain from a court case. Is this video really hurting the company's ability to milk insane amounts of money out off the Final Fantasy franchise? Does seeing the video makes someone less likely to buy a copy of Advent Children? What's next, a legal case against the makers of College Saga? We just hope the negative PR associated with this case is worth the massive $17,000 pay day Square Enix made off of it.

Continue reading Square wins plagiarism case against Korean music video

JoystiqSquare wins plagiarism case against Korean music video originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Dec 2007 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advent childrenAdventChildrencourtenixfinal fantasyFinal Fantasy VIIfinal fantasy7FinalFantasyFinalFantasy7FinalFantasyViikorealawlegalplagiarismPS2PS3PSPsquaresquare enixSquareEnixTue, 11 Dec 2007 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Today's most horrific video: Final Fantasy Cosplay Lip-synching]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/13/todays-most-horrific-video-final-fantasy-cosplay-lip-synching/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/13/todays-most-horrific-video-final-fantasy-cosplay-lip-synching/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/13/todays-most-horrific-video-final-fantasy-cosplay-lip-synching/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,


In honor of the upcoming Halloween Holiday, we bring something cringe-inducing and nausea-causing: namely, cosplayers singing. Well, at least one of them is singing. The other one is lip-synching, complete with backup dancers. The only thing she's missing is a wind machine to toss her hair about in a sultry and sexy manner while she goes through the motions.

Well, you at least have to applaud their enthusiasm, and their willingness to make complete fools of themselves on the international internets. Plus, Rude actually looks fairly slick in his outfit, even if his acting skills make Pauly Shore look like Jude Law. And Cloud's sword looks, well ... authentic. We're just sayin'.

Anyhow, check out the vid. We hope you were scared because there are more to come as we countdown to Halloween. Don't say you weren't warned.

JoystiqToday's most horrific video: Final Fantasy Cosplay Lip-synching originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 13 Oct 2007 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cosplayFinal FantasyFinal Fantasy VIIPCPS2Square EnixSat, 13 Oct 2007 00:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Austin GDC: Live at the Hiromichi Tanaka keynote]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/06/austin-gdc-live-at-the-hiromichi-tanaka-keynote/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/06/austin-gdc-live-at-the-hiromichi-tanaka-keynote/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/06/austin-gdc-live-at-the-hiromichi-tanaka-keynote/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Hiromichi Tanaka is the executive officer of Square Enix and the producer of company's entry into the MMO market, Final Fantasy XI. This morning at the Austin Game Developer's Conference he's going to be talking to us about the challenges of cross-platform design with a design post-mortum of Final Fantasy XI.

11:06 AM CST: We were supposed to get started at 11AM CST, but the event seems to be running fashionably late.

11:08 AM CST: Introducing Hiromichi Tanaka speaking on Launching Final Fantasy XI on Multiple Platforms.

Continue reading Austin GDC: Live at the Hiromichi Tanaka keynote

JoystiqAustin GDC: Live at the Hiromichi Tanaka keynote originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Sep 2007 12:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>agdcaustin game developers conferenceAustinGameDevelopersConferencefinal fantasyfinal fantasy xiFinalFantasyFinalFantasyXihiromichi tanakaHiromichiTanakaPCPS2square enixSquareEnixThu, 06 Sep 2007 12:19:00 EST<![CDATA[New Crystal Chronicles screens just make the wait seem longer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/10/new-crystal-chronicles-screens-just-make-the-wait-seem-longer/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/10/new-crystal-chronicles-screens-just-make-the-wait-seem-longer/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/10/new-crystal-chronicles-screens-just-make-the-wait-seem-longer/#commentsFiled under:



Next spring is starting to feel so far away, especially since we've seen so much media on Ring of Fates already. It's starting to feel as though we can cobble everything together and just pretend we have the full game ... and we're not sure if that makes the waiting easier or harder. But we'll take what we can get and pretend to be happy. Just ignore our twiddling thumbs.

Famitsu has a new set of screenshots up, complete with a few details on the battle system -- racial factors contributing to attacks -- and all we can say is that it's a good thing we've got another Square Enix RPG coming to tide us over.

[Via 4cr]

JoystiqNew Crystal Chronicles screens just make the wait seem longer originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Jul 2007 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal chroniclesCrystalChroniclfinal fantasyFinalFantasyimagering of fatesRingOfFatesrpgscreenshotTue, 10 Jul 2007 14:01:00 EST<![CDATA[New Ring of Fates video: Jumpin' Yuke Flash]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/01/new-ring-of-fates-video-jumpin-yuke-flash/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/01/new-ring-of-fates-video-jumpin-yuke-flash/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/01/new-ring-of-fates-video-jumpin-yuke-flash/#commentsFiled under: ,

Square Enix is keeping up its media push for Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles: Ring of Fates with yet another video, adding onto its bombardment of scans and screenshots to draw in anyone who hasn't already decided to pick up the game's special-edition DS Lite bundle.

This week's clip features Alhanarlem, one of the main characters from the ARPG's spellcasting tribe of Yukes, leaping from platform to platform in what looks like a competitive minigame in which players race through a stage to find a hidden blue switch. Power-ups are scattered around the field, but their effects aren't revealed until they're grabbed. Vault past the post break for the embedded movie.

Continue reading New Ring of Fates video: Jumpin' Yuke Flash

JoystiqNew Ring of Fates video: Jumpin' Yuke Flash originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 01 Jul 2007 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arpgcrystal chroniclesCrystalChroniclesffccfinal fantasyfinal fantasy crystal chroniclesFinalFantasyFinalFantasyCrystalChroniclesminigameminigamesring of fatesRingOfFatesrofsquaresquare enixSquareEnixvideovideosyukeyukesSun, 01 Jul 2007 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview: Final Fantasy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/28/metareview-final-fantasy/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/28/metareview-final-fantasy/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/28/metareview-final-fantasy/#commentsFiled under: ,

Final Fantasy was good enough to financially save Square when it was first released. Since then, it's become one of the biggest franchises worldwide. You already know what we think of the RPG remake. Let's find out what the rest of the press thought.
  • Pocket Gamer UK (80/100) found it worthy: "Far more than a cynical cash-in, this PSP version of Final Fantasy is the perfect opportunity to see where it all began.
  • 1UP (70/100) thinks it's lacking: "Beyond the reworked graphics, you won't find much legitimately new content here. Patient players seeking an absurd challenge will dig the verging-on-unfair PSP-exclusive Labyrinth of Time dungeon, in which your characters' hit points constantly deplete over time. But truthfully, original additions feel scant."
  • Gamespot (65/100) is sick of the remakes: "The umpteenth remake of Final Fantasy I is pretty to look at, but the gameplay is showing its age.

It sounds like your enjoyment may depend on if you've played Final Fantasy before or feel that the price is fair. What score do you think Final Fantasy deserves?

JoystiqMetareview: Final Fantasy originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Jun 2007 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>final fantasyfinal fantasy iFinalFantasyFinalFantasyImetareviewThu, 28 Jun 2007 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSP Fanboy review: Final Fantasy I]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/27/psp-fanboy-review-final-fantasy-i/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/27/psp-fanboy-review-final-fantasy-i/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/27/psp-fanboy-review-final-fantasy-i/#commentsFiled under: ,



The game that started it all is back. Twenty years after its first release on the NES, Final Fantasy I makes its way to the PSP. Much more than just a port, this game includes upgraded graphics and sound, 3D spell effects and an extra dungeon. Plus it includes all the extra stuff that was found in the PlayStation 1 and GBA versions. Is Final Fantasy I: 20th Anniversary Edition just a nostalgic trip down memory lane, or is it a legitimate PSP RPG in its own right? Read on to find out.

Continue reading PSP Fanboy review: Final Fantasy I

JoystiqPSP Fanboy review: Final Fantasy I originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Jun 2007 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>final fantasyfinal fantasy IFinalFantasyFinalFantasyIreviewWed, 27 Jun 2007 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Opening FFTA2's Sealed Grimoire]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/opening-ffta2s-sealed-grimoire/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/opening-ffta2s-sealed-grimoire/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/opening-ffta2s-sealed-grimoire/#commentsFiled under:

Jeux France has the goods on the races (as well as new images and scans) in the upcoming Final Fantasy Tactics Advance 2: The Sealed Grimoire: Human, Viera, Moogle, Bangaa, and Nu Moh. Sound familiar? They should, if you played Final Fantasy Tactics Advance. Hey, it's a sequel -- did you expect other furry animal-based races?

We know some of you are looking forward to the title (and others, not so much), and though the details are starting to shape up, we're as yet undecided on how we feel about this game. In the end, since it's Final Fantasy, and we're shameless addicts, we'll probably give it a go, despite the question of Tactics vs. Tactics Advance being just as polarizing, if not more so, than the idea of Tingle starring in his own games.

JoystiqOpening FFTA2's Sealed Grimoire originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Jun 2007 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bangaaffta2final fantasyFinalFantasyhumanmooglenu mohNuMohracesealed grimoireSealedGrimoiresquare enixSquareEnixsrpgvieraTue, 26 Jun 2007 18:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy II shows dualistic production]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/final-fantasy-ii-shows-dualistic-production/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/final-fantasy-ii-shows-dualistic-production/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/final-fantasy-ii-shows-dualistic-production/#commentsFiled under: ,

There's no denying that Square Enix makes incredible CG with its games. The upcoming Final Fantasy remakes on PSP are no different. As one can see by the intro cinematic to Final Fantasy II (above), Square puts a lot of effort into making their cinematics look gorgeous. While we appreciate the added effort into movies like the one above, we'd much rather see the time and money go into completely revamping the game engine. When one considers how the actual gameplay looks (video after the cut), one can't help but be a little disappointed.

Continue reading Final Fantasy II shows dualistic production

JoystiqFinal Fantasy II shows dualistic production originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Jun 2007 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ff2ffiifinal fantasyfinal fantsy iiFinalFantasyFinalFantsyIisquare enixSquareEnixTue, 26 Jun 2007 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy party tonight in San Francisco]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/final-fantasy-party-tonight-in-san-francisco/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/final-fantasy-party-tonight-in-san-francisco/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/final-fantasy-party-tonight-in-san-francisco/#commentsFiled under: ,

Sonia Im, of Square Enix North America, has posted on the PlayStation.Blog today to remind people that tonight is the launch party of Final Fantasy I 20th Anniversary edition. Details for the party can be found here.

We wish we could be there, if only to gawk at all the people wearing funny clothes. Speaking of funny clothes, Sonia also mentions that due to the overwhelming reaction to the US boxart, there will be limited edition T-shirts available at the party. A sneak peek of the tee can be seen to the right. Shame we won't be there to get our hands on them ourselves. Hint hint.

If you're thinking of picking up Final Fantasy I for the PSP then be sure to check out our review coming out later.

JoystiqFinal Fantasy party tonight in San Francisco originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Jun 2007 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>final fantasyfinal fantasy partyFinalFantasyFinalFantasyPartypartysan franciscoSanFranciscosquare enixSquareEnixTue, 26 Jun 2007 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Before it comes: one last look at Final Fantasy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/24/before-it-comes-one-last-look-at-final-fantasy/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/24/before-it-comes-one-last-look-at-final-fantasy/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/24/before-it-comes-one-last-look-at-final-fantasy/#commentsFiled under: ,

Final Fantasy is coming out on PSP very, very soon. We've been playing our review copy for a while now, and our review is just around the corner. However, until then, enjoy this late-night video of Final Fantasy and a smorgasbord of new images from the game.


JoystiqBefore it comes: one last look at Final Fantasy originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 24 Jun 2007 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>final fantasyFinalFantasySun, 24 Jun 2007 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Daily: Two limited editions enter ...]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/23/ds-daily-two-limited-editions-enter/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/23/ds-daily-two-limited-editions-enter/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/23/ds-daily-two-limited-editions-enter/#commentsFiled under:



Ring of Fates vs. Revenant Wings. There can be only one!

Oh, we can talk about the games, too. If you want.

JoystiqDS Daily: Two limited editions enter ... originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 23 Jun 2007 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bizarrodsdds litedsdDsLitefinal fantasyFinalFantasyrevenant wingsRevenantWingsring of fatesRingOfFatesspecial editionSpecialEditionSat, 23 Jun 2007 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[FF Crystal Chronicles DS Lite bundle, box art revealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/22/ff-crystal-chronicles-ds-lite-bundle-box-art-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/22/ff-crystal-chronicles-ds-lite-bundle-box-art-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/22/ff-crystal-chronicles-ds-lite-bundle-box-art-revealed/#commentsFiled under: ,

As with every Square Enix title that comes out on the Nintendo DS, the upcoming Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles: Rings of Fate has a limited edition DS Lite bundle coming for ¥21,840 (approximately US $177), according to Famitsu. The bundle comes with the above DS Lite and game.

Like Revenant Wings and Final Fantasy III before it, the bundle and console are sold in Japan only. By merit of having all games be region-free, these bundles are at least import-friendly if you want to continue playing games in languages you understand.

[Via Siliconera]

JoystiqFF Crystal Chronicles DS Lite bundle, box art revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Jun 2007 17:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal chroniclesCrystalChroniclesDSenixfinal fantasyFinalFantasyrings of fateRingsOfFatesquaresquare enixSquareEnixFri, 22 Jun 2007 17:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: Ring of Fates DS Lite]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/22/final-fantasy-crystal-chronicles-ring-of-fates-ds-lite/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/22/final-fantasy-crystal-chronicles-ring-of-fates-ds-lite/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/22/final-fantasy-crystal-chronicles-ring-of-fates-ds-lite/#commentsFiled under: ,


Another Square Enix game, another special-edition DS Lite. SE seems to have set up a template for these: logo on the left, line art on the right, money in the bank.

This time, Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: Ring of Fates gets the special-edition treatment on a Crystal White DS Lite. For Japan, obviously. We like the pseudo-stained-glass look, which can be found in full color on the box. This new DS variant is great news for people who were holding out on a DS purchase until the Japanese Ring of Fates came out. It's probably a little irritating for Square Enix fans who already have a plain DS.

JoystiqFinal Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: Ring of Fates DS Lite originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Jun 2007 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal chroniclesCrystalChroniclesdsds liteDsLiteenixfatesffccfinal fantasyFinalFantasynintendoringring of fatesRingOfFatesspecial editionSpecialEditionsquaresquare enixSquareEnixFri, 22 Jun 2007 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix launching US online store]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/20/square-enix-launching-us-online-store/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/20/square-enix-launching-us-online-store/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/20/square-enix-launching-us-online-store/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Role-playing game powerhouse Square Enix have put up a teaser site for an upcoming online merchandise store. Though we're not expecting software titles to be sold, figurines from Dragon Quest, Kingdom Hearts and Final Fantasy are likely (we saw a huge display of fine-crafted figures from those series at Tokyo Game Show last year) and probably clothing with various logos.

Our prediction for best-sellers? Anything with a Slime character on it: key chains, styluses, plush dolls, etc. Our prediction for worst-sellers? Anything sold with actual slime on it. Ew. No date has been given for the grand opening of the store.

[Via 1UP]

JoystiqSquare Enix launching US online store originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Jun 2007 15:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dragon questDragonQuestfinal fantasyFinalFantasykingdom heartsKingdomHeartsslimesquare enixSquareEnixWed, 20 Jun 2007 15:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Today in Joystiq: June 19, 2007]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/today-in-joystiq-june-19-2007/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/today-in-joystiq-june-19-2007/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/today-in-joystiq-june-19-2007/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We made the above picture for a never-to-be-seen feature on Square Enix titles -- and by "we" I mean myself -- but I loved the image so much that I wanted it to see the light of day. We'd love to see this as a limited edition PSP when Dissidia is released. Check out the highlights for today, a say a word for Manhunt's harsh 24 hours:

Joystiquery
Joystiq interview: Sherry Floyd, producer, The Agency
Readers pick best webcomic: Pac-Man secrets
The Guessing Game: Microsoft's E3 Showing
Today's finally understandable video: Boogie

Manhunting
Rockstar's Manhunt 2 rejected by UK ratings board
ELSPA: Manhunt ban is good. Us: WTF?
Manhunt 2 under fire, watchdog demands AO rating for Wii version
No political influence in Manhunt decision says BBFC
Rockstar: We 'emphatically disagree' with UK's Manhunt 2 ban
Retail murder: ESRB rates Manhunt 2 'Adults Only'

News
Quake Wars public beta keys coming this week
Ace Combat 6 flight stick bundle
Microsoft invests in Chinese developer
Rock Band guitar shown in latest GameStop newsletter
Sony cans Connect, pumps up PlayStation
Ubisoft dates Haze, Splinter Cell, Raving Rabbids 2, more
Take-Two not explaining GTA $50 million exclusive
Epic's Mark Rein: No Gears of War 2 at Min-E3
Kutaragi officially retires from Sony
Fox will handle Halo licensing (yeah, just licensing)
Lego reveals more Batman info
Halo 3 achievements unlocked, here be spoilers
Indie dev Chair signs exclusive deal with Epic, new Undertow images
Final Fantasy Dissidia trailer unveiled
Team Fortress will not have cross-platform play, but Valve plays it that way
Quake Wars to have in-game ads
SingStar PS3 track list confirmed
Apple GameTap 'Lite' launches June 28, Intel Macs only
Red Octane says more Guitar Hero II songs coming in July
Warhammer 40K: Squad Command bound for DS, PSP
Gamespot oopsies about Katamari on XBLA

Culture & Community
Blogging through every Legend of Zelda
Computer plays Pong all by itself
Billy vs Steve in the new King of Kong trailer

JoystiqToday in Joystiq: June 19, 2007 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Jun 2007 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>daily recapDailyRecapdissidiafinal fantasyFinalFantasyPSPsonysquare enixSquareEnixTue, 19 Jun 2007 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Members Only Final Fantasy Dissidia trailer shows gameplay footage]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/members-only-final-fantasy-dissidia-trailer-shows-gameplay-foot/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/members-only-final-fantasy-dissidia-trailer-shows-gameplay-foot/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/members-only-final-fantasy-dissidia-trailer-shows-gameplay-foot/#commentsFiled under: ,

Do you want to see the new Dissidia trailer? Of course you do. Then I hope you've got a Square-Enix.co.jp member's login. Currently the video is only available to people who do. We're not yet certain when it will be released on the official Dissidia website, which hasn't been updated since it opened last month. Check after the jump for screenshots of the trailer.

The trailer includes some very pretty CG footage (as is the norm for Square-Enix) of some rocks rising out of an ocean with storm clouds above. A ray of light shines through, illuminating a standing figure on one of the stones - the Warrior of Light. Cue some gameplay footage, showing the Warrior of Light, Garland, Zidane and Kuja. The latter two can both be seen going into Trance mode during the battle. Movement seems fairly unrestricted, as the characters are all flying around the levels quite effortlessly. The trailer ends with more CG footage, as the Warrior of Light watches the ground split apart, spewing lava into the air. Sephiroth steps out of the molten waterfall and gives us the look. You know. The look.

Exciting stuff, by all accounts. Though there's no new information as this is almost certainly what was shown at the Square-Enix Party. Though it's curious that Square-Enix would hide it away in the member's only area. We'll keep you up to date on any developments.

[Update] Trailer has been embedded, courtesy of Jeux-France.

Continue reading Members Only Final Fantasy Dissidia trailer shows gameplay footage

JoystiqMembers Only Final Fantasy Dissidia trailer shows gameplay footage originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Jun 2007 05:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dissidiafinal fantasyFinalFantasysquare enixSquareEnixtrailerTue, 19 Jun 2007 05:40:00 EST<![CDATA[New Ring of Fates video: The whole is greater than the sum of its parts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/17/new-ring-of-fates-video-the-whole-is-greater-than-the-sum-of-its-pa/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/17/new-ring-of-fates-video-the-whole-is-greater-than-the-sum-of-its-pa/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/17/new-ring-of-fates-video-the-whole-is-greater-than-the-sum-of-its-pa/#commentsWe've been clamoring for a proper follow-up to the Seiken Densetsu series for over a decade now, and by the looks of the Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: Ring of Fates videos we've seen so far, we might finally be getting one. The first Crystal Chronicles entry on the GameCube was by no means disappointing, at least in our opinion, but hardware and link cable requirements made getting a group together much harder than we would've liked. Its handheld sequel seems free of those problems without losing that multiplayer ARPG's cooperative fun.

Square Enix's latest Ring of Fates clip demonstrates the teamwork involved in getting through the game's dungeon puzzles. Carrying around a huge block of wood can be difficult if someone isn't knocking back the enemies coming at you! Bring your crew past the post break for the short movie.

Continue reading New Ring of Fates video: The whole is greater than the sum of its parts

JoystiqNew Ring of Fates video: The whole is greater than the sum of its parts originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 17 Jun 2007 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arpgcoopcooperativecrystal chroniclesCrystalChroniclesdsffccfinal fantasyFinalFantasynintendonintendo dsNintendoDsring of fatesRingOfFatessquaresquare enixSquareEnixteamworkvideoSun, 17 Jun 2007 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix chief: 360, PS3 too fancy for today's market]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/12/square-enix-chief-360-ps3-too-fancy-for-todays-market/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/12/square-enix-chief-360-ps3-too-fancy-for-todays-market/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/12/square-enix-chief-360-ps3-too-fancy-for-todays-market/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Though the exact word used by the Financial Times article is "over-engineered," a word we deemed too complex for today's headline. Yoichi Wada, chief executive of Square Enix, feels that consoles such as the PS3 and 360 are over-engineered and out of place in today's gaming market, noting that handheld platforms will be the ones to dominate this year. After handing Dragon Quest IX (and thus the keys to Japan) to the Nintendo DS and inundating the PSP with remakes, Wada's belief should come as no surprise.

"There is a new breed of gamers in the market - we have to make games for all kinds of people," he says. "In the old days, we could just focus on the PlayStation or the GameBoy, but the environment has changed completely." It's the same story we've been hearing for months, that one filled with flailing grandmas and casual players shouting "Blue!" at the top of their lungs. Wada isn't giving up on the hardcore gamer just yet, though. Despite thinking that "there are too many specs" on the more advanced systems, he reckons they'll fare better in "a year or two years." Isn't that about the time Final Fantasy XIII comes out?

JoystiqSquare Enix chief: 360, PS3 too fancy for today's market originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Jun 2007 20:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Brain AgeBrainAgeDragon QuestDragon Quest IXDragonQuestDragonQuestIxDSFinal FantasyFinalFantasyPS3PSPSquare EnixSquareEnixWii SportsWiiSportsXbox-360Tue, 12 Jun 2007 20:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy anniversary bash in SF on 26 June]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/09/final-fantasy-anniversary-bash-in-sf-on-26-june/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/09/final-fantasy-anniversary-bash-in-sf-on-26-june/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/09/final-fantasy-anniversary-bash-in-sf-on-26-june/#commentsFiled under: , ,


The "anniversary bash" referring to a celebration, not that thing you do in the comments section every time we talk about Square Enix's upcoming remakes. Indeed, the plan is to "commemorate 20 years of devotion, dedication and passion from the greatest fans in the gaming industry," so there won't be any place for you at the Metreon's PlayStation store in San Francisco come this June 26th.

The first 100 people to arrive promptly at 6PM (on the the day before, knowing hardcore Final Fans) will receive free items that are exclusive to the event, while everyone else will have to be satisfied with purchasing the PSP version of the first, err, Final Fantasy. Square Enix also promises a special showing of July's re-sequel, Final Fantasy II. I'll see you there -- look out for the guy dressed as eager ladies' man and last-minute quitter, Irvine.

That's not who I'm going as, but watch out for that guy. He's a creep.

JoystiqFinal Fantasy anniversary bash in SF on 26 June originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 09 Jun 2007 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>FFFinal FantasyFinal Fantasy remakesFinalFantasyFinalFantasyRemakesPSPSquare EnixSquareEnixSat, 09 Jun 2007 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Join the Final Fantasy 20th anniversary party]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/08/join-the-final-fantasy-20th-anniversary-party/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/08/join-the-final-fantasy-20th-anniversary-party/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/08/join-the-final-fantasy-20th-anniversary-party/#commentsFiled under: ,


Get your cosplay gear ready, folks. A Final Fantasy party is heading to the PlayStation Store at the Metreon in San Francisco. The date? Tuesday, June 26th. The time? 6PM. According to the press release, "the event will commemorate 20 years of devotion, dedication and passion from the greatest fans in the gaming industry."

Attendees of the party will be able to purchase the newly remade PSP version of Final Fantasy, in addition to get a hands-on experience with the upcoming Final Fantasy II. The first one hundred fans to arrive will receive items exclusive to the event. Considering how rabidly devoted Final Fantasy fans are, we recommend you get there early.

If any PSP Fanboy readers are planning on attending, let us know: we'd love to see pictures from the event!

JoystiqJoin the Final Fantasy 20th anniversary party 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]]>final fantasyFinalFantasymetreonpartysquaresquare enixSquareEnixFri, 08 Jun 2007 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix still open to Final Fantasy on Xbox 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/08/no-final-fantasy-for-xbox-360-maybe/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/08/no-final-fantasy-for-xbox-360-maybe/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/08/no-final-fantasy-for-xbox-360-maybe/#commentsFiled under: , ,


A few days ago we reported that Square Enix had officially, without a doubt, and definitively closed the door on any possible iteration of a new Final Fantasy appearing on the Xbox 360 anytime soon. But it looks like they were quoted incorrectly in the source story. A Square Enix spokesperson contacted GamesIndustry.biz and set the record straight about the quote.

Apparently, what they meant was that there was no Final Fantasy title in development for the Xbox 360 at that moment, but that it did not mean there never would be. According to industry analyst Michael Pachter, "The series has always been single console and given the Xbox 360 sell through in Japan, it would be hard to put the next Final Fantasy instalment on the 360 only."

Well, that and the fact that alienating their PlayStation fanbase might cause a full-scale riot. Pachter goes on to imagine that they will most likely develop the next title as PS3 only, and "deal with the backlash from the west." So, get prepped and ready for disappointment, you backlashers. Besides, by the time there's a new Final Fantasy game out of development and ready for purchase, you'll either be playing it on a PlayStation 9, or directly on your cerebral cortex via all manner of implants.

JoystiqSquare Enix still open to Final Fantasy on Xbox 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Jun 2007 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Final FantasyFinalFantasySquare EnixSquareEnixXbox-360Fri, 08 Jun 2007 17:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy Fables: Chocobo Sale]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/08/final-fantasy-fables-chocobo-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/08/final-fantasy-fables-chocobo-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/08/final-fantasy-fables-chocobo-sale/#commentsFiled under:

Chocobo Tales, Square Enix's Final Fantasy spinoff, made for a great release to pass the Spring months with, but it can be hard for a minigame-filled RPG to elbow its way to the front of a crowd filled with must-have DS titles. If you haven't had a chance to pick up Chocobo Tales yet, maybe Amazon's latest sale will be what finally motivates you. The online shop has slashed $10 off of the game's usual cost, bringing it down to a budget price of $19.99. This bargain ends today though, so quit being lazy about buying it!

See also: DS Fanboy Review: Final Fantasy Fables: Chocobo Tales

[Via CAG]

JoystiqFinal Fantasy Fables: Chocobo Sale originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Jun 2007 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonbargainbargainschocobochocobo talesChocoboTalesdealdealsdiscountdiscountsdsffffinal fantasyfinal fantasy fablesFinalFantasyFinalFantasyFablesnintendonintendo dsNintendoDssalesalessquaresquare enixSquareEnixFri, 08 Jun 2007 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Square squashes FFXIII 360 rumors]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/06/square-squashes-ffxiii-360-rumors/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/06/square-squashes-ffxiii-360-rumors/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/06/square-squashes-ffxiii-360-rumors/#commentsFiled under:

One of the most persistent Xbox 360 rumors (right up there with Metal Gear Solid 4) has been officially debunked at the highest level. Of course, we're talking about Final Fantasy XIII. But, how high is the highest level? How about a Square Enix executive? Specifically, IGN reports Square Enix's Shinji Hashimoto stated that the company has no current plans to make any more Final Fantasy titles on the Xbox 360. When asked about Final Fantasy landing on Wii or 360, Hashimoto stated, "For the Wii, we have FF Crystal Chronicles in production ... As for FF on the Xbox 360, it's currently a completely blank page."

Being Xbox 360 fanboys, this is where we are contractually obligated to note that Hashimoto's statements don't necessarily rule out future games in the series or even a delayed port of Final Fantasy XIII itself. Hair splitting aside, it looks like any hope of the next installment of Final Fantasy landing on the Xbox 360 has been crushed.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqSquare squashes FFXIII 360 rumors originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jun 2007 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>enixffxiiifinal fantasyfinal fantasy xiiiFinalFantasyFinalFantasyXiiisquaresquare enixSquareEnixsqueenixWed, 06 Jun 2007 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Square confirms FFXIII isn't going to the 360 (nor is any other FF game)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/05/square-confirms-ffxiii-isnt-going-to-the-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/05/square-confirms-ffxiii-isnt-going-to-the-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/05/square-confirms-ffxiii-isnt-going-to-the-360/#commentsFiled under:


Square Enix is just laying down the smack this week. After confirming yersterday that FFVII isn't being made, they've come out and stated that they are not working on a single Final Fantasy game for the Xbox 360. In an interview with the Japanese Business website Nikkei BP, Square Enix executive Hashimito dropped the bomb. When the site asked if the Wii or The Xbox 360 are going to get any Final Fantasy games, Hashimito responded, "For the Wii, we have FF Crystal Chronicles in production. As for FF on the Xbox 360, it's currently a completely blank page."

Ouch -- well that pretty much debunks the ongoing 'Final Fantasy XIII OMGZ Xbox 360' rumors right there. While it seems unlikely that the Xbox 360 will never get another FF game, it appears that for the foreseeable future the PlayStation 3 will be getting all the big name Final Fantasy love. This is fantastic news for Sony and the PlayStation 3, since not only is there a 'slight' dearth of big name third-party exclusives, but also both Final Fantasy VII and Final Fantasy X both helped skyrocket the sales of the PlayStation systems that they were on. And it seems very likely that the same thing will happen with PlayStation 3 sales once FFXIII is released.

Mmm ... the idea that FFXIII is being built exclusively around the PS3 and Blu-ray is pretty exciting. That just makes the wait until next year that much harder though!

JoystiqSquare confirms FFXIII isn't going to the 360 (nor is any other FF game) originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Jun 2007 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>exclusiveFFXIIIfinal fantasyFinal Fantasy 13FinalFantasyFinalFantasy13squaresquare enixSquareEnixTue, 05 Jun 2007 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Crazy Japanese woman returns, with tears, in new FF TVCM]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/01/crazy-japanese-woman-returns-with-tears-in-new-ff-tvcm/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/01/crazy-japanese-woman-returns-with-tears-in-new-ff-tvcm/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/01/crazy-japanese-woman-returns-with-tears-in-new-ff-tvcm/#commentsFiled under: ,

With a game like Final Fantasy, you don't really need to have a good advertising campaign. At least, that's what we think Square Enix is thinking with their commercial for Final Fantasy II. It appears that the same much-too-overenthusiastic woman from the first ad continues to be the series spokesperson, and this time, she's moved to tears by Final Fantasy II's epic storyline. Get her some tissues, stat!

Final Fantasy II will hit America this July.


JoystiqCrazy Japanese woman returns, with tears, in new FF TVCM originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Jun 2007 19:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adcommercialff2ffiifinal fantasyfinal fantasy 2final fantasy iiFinalFantasyFinalFantasy2FinalFantasyIijapanFri, 01 Jun 2007 19:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy IV developer interview]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/31/final-fantasy-iv-developer-interview/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/31/final-fantasy-iv-developer-interview/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/31/final-fantasy-iv-developer-interview/#commentsFiled under: ,

In celebration of the upcoming remake of Final Fantasy IV, Famitsu decided to remake a vintage interview with producer Tomoya Asano and director Takashi Tokita. No, we're kidding, it's a new interview, but we like giving Square Enix a hard time about remakery. We do that, and they take our money for games. It's an arrangement we have.

The developers discuss Yoshitaka Amano's remake of the logo, which is "really good." They also talk about the story, which Takashi Tokita is going back over: "16 years ago I was still a young man so I want to try and see if there's any parts that I feel my inexperience had a bad effect on or maybe I wasn't expressive enough at the time."

When asked why they decided to remake Final Fantasy IV after III, the two, in unison and without hesitation, yelled "CHA-CHING!" Okay, that didn't happen either.

[Via GoNintendo]

JoystiqFinal Fantasy IV developer interview originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 31 May 2007 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsds liteDsLiteff4ffivfinal fantasyfinal fantasy 4final fantasy ivFinalFantasyFinalFantasy4FinalFantasyIvinterviewlitenintendonintendo dsNintendoDssquareThu, 31 May 2007 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy gets a Blu-ray treatment [Update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/31/final-fantasy-and-lost-get-blu-ray-treatment/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/31/final-fantasy-and-lost-get-blu-ray-treatment/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/31/final-fantasy-and-lost-get-blu-ray-treatment/#commentsFiled under:


In lulls of gaming goodness, we like to sit back and watch what 1080p can deliver, thanks to the PS3 built-in Blu-ray player. Recently Sony Pictures Home Entertainment unveiled their late summer lineup, with Arlington Road and Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within both set for release on August 7th. The feature list for Arlington Road looks pretty light, but Final Fantasy is getting the full treatment, with additional featurettes, an interactive documentary, deleted footage and even joke outtakes. Then on December 11th, Lost: The Complete Third Season will mark its debut on both standard DVD and Blu-ray with again, more goodies than typical Blu-ray fare has provided so far. It's good to finally see movie studios show their strong Blu-ray support by supplying meatier Blu-ray supplemental features. Are there any unannounced titles you are heavily anticipating for Blu-ray release?

[Update: Disney Home Entertainment has officially come out to say that Badder Santa and Lost: The Complete Third Season are "not planned for high-def (Blu-ray) release." Also important to note, they reaffirmed their Blu-ray exclusivity and have "no plans" to support HD-DVD anytime soon. Removed Lost from the post title.]

[Thanks Mark & frambrosis]

JoystiqFinal Fantasy gets a Blu-ray treatment [Update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 31 May 2007 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arlington roadArlingtonRoadblu-rayfinal fantasyfinal fantasy: the spirits withinFinalFantasyFinalFantasy:TheSpiritsWithinlostlost the complete third seasonLostTheCompleteThirdSeasonsony pictures home entertainmentSonyPicturesHomeEntertainmentThu, 31 May 2007 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XIII interview makes us want it ASAP - as if we didn't before]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/31/final-fantasy-xiii-interview-makes-us-want-it-asap-as-if-we-di/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/31/final-fantasy-xiii-interview-makes-us-want-it-asap-as-if-we-di/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/31/final-fantasy-xiii-interview-makes-us-want-it-asap-as-if-we-di/#commentsFiled under:



Fed up of interviews? Then I have some bad news for you because a user over on the NeoGAF forums has put together a collection of quotes from interviews with Square Enix developers from the latest issue of LEVEL magazine. The excerpts include discussion by the interviewees, Motomu Toriyama, Tetsuya Nomura and Hajime Tabata, of Crisis Core, Final Fantasy XIII and Final Fantasy Versus XIII.

Whilst generally an exciting collection of quotes from some of the top names at Square Enix it is hard not to be disappointed by Toriyama's statement that the games in the Fabula Nova Crystallis series will be kept largely separate. We had harboured hopes of cross-game cameos. Imagine two Final Fantasies where the main characters from each game meet up and help each other get through a problem before going on their separate ways again. Sadly this doesn't look likely, though the games will link with each other through a "vague crystal theme," as Nomura puts it. Same as all the previous FF games then?

Nomura's thoughts on the tone and style of Final Fantasy Versus is a particularly interesting read. For those of you who suffer from fears that the series will be moving over to other consoles, then let me put them to rest. Both Nomura and Toriyama make it clear that they couldn't do the things they're doing without the power of the PlayStation 3. Make sure you check out all of the quotes over at the NeoGAF forums for more info.

JoystiqFinal Fantasy XIII interview makes us want it ASAP - as if we didn't before originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 31 May 2007 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Fabula nova CrystallisFabulaNovaCrystallisFinal FantasyFinal Fantasy Versus XIIIFinal Fantasy XIIIFinalFantasyFinalFantasyVersusXiiiFinalFantasyXiiiInterviewSquare EnixSquareEnixThu, 31 May 2007 10:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy IV's CG-tastic trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/30/final-fantasy-ivs-cg-tastic-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/30/final-fantasy-ivs-cg-tastic-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/30/final-fantasy-ivs-cg-tastic-trailer/#commentsFiled under:

Contrasting the absolutely wicked, gameplay-filled trailer that we received last week for Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: Ring of Fates, the Final Fantasy IV DS video Square Enix posted at the title's teaser site today is pretty light on action. The CG scenes, dramatic soundtrack, and breathy voice-over serve the story-driven RPG well, but if you're looking to see some combat or world map travel, you won't find much satisfaction here.

The tail end of the clip hints that we'll be seeing the game's release before year's end, so plan your budget accordingly. Hop a ride on an airship, and sail past the post break for the 3D remake's two-minute movie.

Continue reading Final Fantasy IV's CG-tastic trailer

JoystiqFinal Fantasy IV's CG-tastic trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 May 2007 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dcgdsff ivff4ffivfinal fantasyfinal fantasy 4final fantasy ivFinalFantasyFinalFantasy4FinalFantasyIvmovienintendonintendo dsNintendoDsremakesquaresquare enixSquareEnixtrailertrailersWed, 30 May 2007 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ring of Fates updates just keep coming]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/28/ring-of-fates-updates-just-keep-coming/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/28/ring-of-fates-updates-just-keep-coming/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/28/ring-of-fates-updates-just-keep-coming/#commentsFiled under:

What did we do to deserve all this recent news on Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: Ring of Fates? Whatever it was, we should do it again ... a lot ... and with pretty much every other game ever. Square Enix has not been at all shy lately when it comes to Ring of Fates, and we're getting more and more interested in the story of fraternal twins Yuri and Cherinka. Now we're just hoping we can wrestle people into playing with us.

The latest Famitsu was packed with Ring of Fates tidbits -- see for yourself after the jump!

Continue reading Ring of Fates updates just keep coming

JoystiqRing of Fates updates just keep coming originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 May 2007 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal chroniclesCrystalChroniclesdsfinal fantasyFinalFantasygallerymrpgnintendoring of fatesRingOfFatesrpgscanMon, 28 May 2007 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The latest on Ring of Fates]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/25/the-latest-on-ring-of-fates/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/25/the-latest-on-ring-of-fates/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/25/the-latest-on-ring-of-fates/#commentsFiled under:

Square Enix may be a little stingy with that other Crystal Chronicles, but they make up for it with all kinds of updates on the DS game Ring of Fates. These newest screens go quite well with the action-packed trailer that was released earlier this week. We've dropped them into the gallery below and hope to add more soon!

We know not everyone is pleased with Square Enix lately. While a lot of DS owners are squealing in delight over all of the games headed to the handheld, some of you are a little grumbly about remakes. We know that sometimes SE can go a little overboard, but look at it this way -- they're also loading up on the original content. And when the landscape is packed with great games, we, the gamers, can only win.

JoystiqThe latest on Ring of Fates originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 May 2007 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal chroniclesCrystalChroniclfinal fantasyFinalFantasyring of fatesRingOfFatesrpgsquare enixSquareEnixFri, 25 May 2007 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[FFCC: The Crystal Bearers trailer finally revealed [update 1]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/25/ffcc-the-crystal-bearers-trailer-finally-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/25/ffcc-the-crystal-bearers-trailer-finally-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/25/ffcc-the-crystal-bearers-trailer-finally-revealed/#commentsFiled under:



After weeks of teasing us with screen captures from its Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: The Crystal Bearers trailer, Square Enix made the 55-second video public early this morning. Though a third of it is taken up by an animated, spinning crystal, the movie still manages to pack in plenty of airship shots, city scenes, and even a tender, tearful moment with the RPG's blonde-haired protagonist. Jump past the post break for the clip and some skydiving action.

[Update 1: We mixed up our Ring of Fates with our Crystal Bearers, citing this trailer as belonging to The Ring Bearers. How embarassing.]

Continue reading FFCC: The Crystal Bearers trailer finally revealed [update 1]

JoystiqFFCC: The Crystal Bearers trailer finally revealed [update 1] originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 May 2007 10:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystalcrystal chroniclesCrystalChroniclescrystalsffccffcctcbfinal fantasyfinal fantasy crystal chroniclesFinalFantasyFinalFantasyCrystalChroniclesnintendonintendowiirpgsquaresquare enixSquareEnixtcbthecrystalbearerstrailervideovideoswiiFri, 25 May 2007 10:10:00 EST<![CDATA[No Final Fantasy XIII this fiscal year, not before April 2008]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/23/no-final-fantasy-xiii-this-fiscal-year-not-before-april-2008/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/23/no-final-fantasy-xiii-this-fiscal-year-not-before-april-2008/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/23/no-final-fantasy-xiii-this-fiscal-year-not-before-april-2008/#commentsFiled under: , ,

ffxiii
Following a financial briefing in Tokyo today, Square Enix president Yoichi Wada gave clear indication of when to expect Final Fantasy XIII -- er, rather, of when not to expect the fair-haired rpg. "[The game] will still take a bit more time. At the very least, [a release] this fiscal year is definitely out of the question," said Wada. Square Enix's fiscal year ends March 31, 2008.

Wada's forecast comes just a day after Konami indicated that Metal Gear Solid 4 would squeeze into stores before the end of the fiscal year.

JoystiqNo Final Fantasy XIII this fiscal year, not before April 2008 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 May 2007 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ffxiiifinal fantasyfinal fantasy xiiiFinalFantasyFinalFantasyXiiips3rpgsquare enixSquare-EnixSquareEnixWed, 23 May 2007 12:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Extended Ring of Fates trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/23/extended-ring-of-fates-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/23/extended-ring-of-fates-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/23/extended-ring-of-fates-trailer/#commentsFiled under: ,

If previous Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: Ring of Fates clips have left you wanting, look no further than the multiplayer ARPG's latest trailer from last week's Square Enix party. The four-minute video has everything you could ever ask for -- story cutscenes, cooperative puzzles, touchscreen elements, topless Selkies, hectic combat, boss fights, peanut butter jelly, and a baseball bat. Carry your bucket past the post break for the movie, but don't expect to get much use out of it.

Continue reading Extended Ring of Fates trailer

JoystiqExtended Ring of Fates trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 May 2007 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arpgcrystal chroniclesCrystalChroniclesdsffccfinal fantasyfinal fantasy crystal chroniclesFinalFantasyFinalFantasyCrystalChroniclesnintendonintendo dsnintendodssquaresquare enixSquareEnixtrailertrailersvideovideosWed, 23 May 2007 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Crystal Bearers details coming into focus]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/20/crystal-bearers-details-coming-into-focus/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/20/crystal-bearers-details-coming-into-focus/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/20/crystal-bearers-details-coming-into-focus/#commentsFiled under:

Square Enix have been tantalising us with a slow drip of info regarding Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: Crystal Bearers for a little while now. We've managed to decipher some of the recent interview with Akitoshi Kawazu, the game's executive producer and Toshiyuki Itahana, the director.

The game starts with the hero arriving to sort out an aircraft accident. But was it an accident? That's where you come in. You'll need to find out what happened, and who was responsible. Rather than featuring a character who progresses and develops through the course of the game, Crystal Bearers' protagonist will start the game as a powerful hero. Instead of focussing on developing your powers, the focus will be on how you solve individual problems. The idea is to enjoy the hero's triumphs through the story, rather than building up to one climatic victory.

You'll have a range of abilities and weapons from the very start. Few specific details on abilities are given, but they do mention that the glow emanating from the hero's hand, whatever it is, will be available to players from the word go. There is also speculation on the internet that summoning will play a role, as a Bahamut-like dragon is visible in the teaser video.

The emphasis seems very much on accessibility and fun. The controls will be simple, possibly adapting from scene to scene. You'll be able to move fluidly, and naturally, both the nunchuck and Wiimote will be involved in proceedings. There might be less of an emphasis on cut scenes, apparently it's no fun watching the plot unfold when you aren't taking part. They want you to play by controlling things.

We're also promised big enemies as well as big bosses, who will be able to match the fluidity of your own movements. They hoped Square Enix party attendees would be able to play the game, but couldn't get this sorted out. Apparently the footage shown at the party was in-game. Hopefully that means the release date isn't that far away.

That's all we've got to go on for now, but watch this space; there'll surely be more from Square Enix over the coming weeks.

JoystiqCrystal Bearers details coming into focus originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 20 May 2007 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Well, 66% new, at least -- but that's more than we had a mere week ago. The good folks at Square Enix seem to make us want to suffer. They're teasing us with glimpses of this strange new Final Fantasy, the game that's not quite in keeping with the franchise's glorious RPG tradition. But exactly what do they have in store for us? At this rate, we'll find out sometime in late 2010.

Just let go, guys. Give us the Crystal Bearers trailer and let us see it in action. That one teaser just wasn't enough!

JoystiqAll NEW blurry shots from FFCC: Crystal Bearers originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 May 2007 19:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal bearerscrystal chroniclesCrystalBearersCrystalChroniclesfinal fantasyFinalFantasynintendoscanshonen jumpShonenJumpsquare enixSquareEnixwiiFri, 18 May 2007 19:40:00 EST